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MEXICO CITY (AP) — Two elderly Jesuit priests were killed inside a church where a man pursued by gunmen apparently sought refuge in a remote mountainous area of northern Mexico, the religious order’s Mexican branch announced Tuesday.
Javier Campos Morales, 79, and Joaquín César Mora Salazar, 80, were slain Monday inside the church in Cerocahui in Chihuahua state.
They were apparently killed after a man fleeing a drug gang took refuge in the church, authorities said. The gang apparently pursued and caught him, and killed all three.
Chihuahua Gov. Maria Eugenia Campos confirmed a third man was killed, without identifying him. But President Andrés Manuel López Obrador said during his daily news conference that the man fleeing the gunmen was also killed.
The state government later identified the third man as a tourist guide, and said he had been kidnapped and taken to the church, apparently by the gunmen.
The governor said the killings caused “deep anger, indignation and pain” and “shook us to our deepest depths.”
López Obrador said authorities had information about possible suspects in the killings and noted the area has a strong organized crime presence.
Violence has plagued the Tarahumara mountains for years. The rugged, pine-clad region is home to the Indigenous group of the same name. Cerocahui is near a point where Chihuahua state meets Sonora and Sinaloa, a major drug-producing region.
A statement from the Roman Catholic Society of Jesus in Mexico demanded justice and the return of the men’s bodies. It said gunmen had taken both of their bodies from the church.
“Acts like these are not isolated,” the statement said. “The Tarahumara mountains, like many other regions of the country, face conditions of violence and abandonment that have not been reversed. Every day men and women are arbitrarily deprived of life, as our murdered brothers were today.”
For some reason, the gunmen did not kill a third priest who was at the church, but refused his pleas for them to leave the bodies of his two colleagues, said Narce Santibañez, the press director for the Jesuits in Mexico.
The surviving priest said his two colleagues had been killed with gunshots at close range.
The Tarahumara Diocese said in a statement that “the killers, not content with murdering them, have taken their bodies … leaving a wake of pain, sadness and indigation among all of us who want to mourn them.”
The killing of priests has been a persistent tragedy in Mexico, at least since the start of the drug war in 2006.
The Rev. Gilberto Guevara serves in the parish of Aguililla in the western state of Michoacan, a town which has been on the front lines of cartel turf wars for years. Three priests have been killed in the area over the last decade.
“The danger is always there,” Guevara said about working in the cartel-dominated region. “As long as we don’t get in the way, they respect us, just as the government respects as as long as we are useful to them.”
The church’s Catholic Multimedia Center said seven priests have been murdered under the current administration, which took office in December 2018, and at least two dozen under the former president, who took office in 2012.
The center said that on May 15, a priest who ran a migrant shelter in the northern border city of Tecate was found dead on a ranch.
In 2021, a Franciscan priest died when he was caught in the crossfire of a drug gang shootout in the north-central state of Zacatecas as he drove to Mass. Another priest was killed in the central state of Morelos and another in the violence-plagued state of Guanajuato that year.
In 2019, a priest was stabbed to death in the northern border city of Matamoros, across from Brownsville, Texas.
Chihuahua’s governor wrote in her Twitter account that she “laments and condemns” the killings and said security arrangements had been discussed for priests in the area.
Campos Morales was ordained as a priest in 1972 and spent almost a half-century working in parishes in the Tarahumara region, known for its grinding poverty and scenic beauty.
Mora Salazar was ordained in 1971 and worked off and on in the Tarahumara in the 1970s and 80s before returning full time in 2000.
The Tarahumara people, who prefer the name Rarámuri, suffered centuries of poverty, exclusion and exploitation, with loggers plundering their forests and drug gangs cultivating marijuana and opium poppies in the mountains.
The Jesuits started missions among the Rarámuri in the 1600s but were expelled by Spain in 1767. They returned around 1900.
The Indigenous community has gained worldwide fame for their skill at running dozens of miles through their mountainous territory, often in leather sandals or barefoot, and have inspired and competed in ultra-long-distance foot races. | https://cw33.com/news/international/ap-international/jesuit-priests-killed-by-gunmen-in-church-in-northern-mexico/ | 2022-06-22T17:45:26Z |
Chopped walnut pouches recalled for containing the wrong kind of nuts
(Gray News) – A recall has been issued for Great Value Walnuts for mislabeling issues.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the recalled pouches contain pecans instead of walnuts.
People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to pecans run the risk of a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they eat the nuts.
The FDA said there have not been any reports of illness or death associated with this recall so far.
Only the Great Value Walnut Chopped 4oz. pouches with UPC 78742201344, Lot #29329 are impacted. They have a Best If Used By date of April 29, 2023.
The nuts were sold at Walmart stores in Florida, North Carolina and South Carolina.
Anyone who bought the mislabeled pouches can return them to the store for a full refund or throw them away.
Copyright 2022 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/08/24/chopped-walnut-pouches-recalled-containing-wrong-kind-nuts/ | 2022-08-24T18:18:47Z |
FAIRFIELD, Conn., June 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- HJ Sims (Sims), a privately held investment bank and wealth management firm founded in 1935, is pleased to announce the May 2022 closing of $25.515 million Series 2022 Bonds for San Antonio, TX public charter school, The Gathering Place. As a result of the financing, The Gathering Place now owns its permanent facility, providing educational space for more than 800 students a year.
With the belief that physical settings are integral to its learning program, The Gathering Place sought financing to allow the purchase of their current leased facility and construction of a playground. The school's charter was granted in 2019, and is effective for school year 2020-21 through 2024-25. Currently educating 501 students in the "Near Northwest" neighborhood of San Antonio, the school was founded to provide students in historically underserved communities a high-quality education that fosters academic performance, creativity, and healthy social and emotional development. The school projects to grow to 832 students in K-5 by 2023-24, the school also plans to open a middle school facility in 2024-25. Eventually, the school aims to serve 1,404 students in K-8 by 2026-27.
The Series 2022A tax-exempt and Series 2022B taxable Education Revenue Bonds enabled The Gathering Place to purchase the land and buildings, provided funds to build a playground, as well as funded a debt service reserve fund and covered costs of issuance. The bonds were structured with a 40-year amortization, allowing for the lowest annual debt service, and with a 5-year call option at par it is intended to sync up with both the future purchase of a middle school facility and the potential for lower cost financing if the school qualifies at such time for the 'AAA'-rated Texas Permanent School Fund bond guarantee program.
"We are privileged to help The Gathering Place achieve this milestone goal, and the impact it will have on expanding and improving the quality of education for the children of San Antonio and their community," said Rob Nickell, Executive Vice President at Sims.
"This was The Gathering Place's first experience going to the bond market, and we couldn't have imagined a better partner to help us through the process. Sims provided steady and reliable support through every step of the process. We're a young organization going to the market during turbulent times and still walked away with a great deal," said Asia Klekowicz and Ryan York, Co-CEOs, The Gathering Place.
Financed Right® Solutions—Rob Nickell: rnickell@hjsims.com or 214.681.0952
ABOUT HJ SIMS: Founded in 1935, HJ Sims is a privately held investment bank and wealth management firm. Headquartered in Fairfield, CT, Sims has nationwide investment banking, private wealth management and trading locations. Member FINRA, SIPC. Testimonials may not be representative of another client's experience. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram.
CONTACT: Rebecca Brady, Director of Marketing & Brand | 203-418-9077 | rbrady@hjsims.com
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SOURCE HJ Sims | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/08/hj-sims-closes-25515-million-series-2022-bonds-texas-public-charter-school/ | 2022-06-08T19:46:37Z |
Collaboration between leading IT/OT firms will lead to the implementation of viable sustainability-oriented solutions that address climate change and other key ecological challenges.
ALISO VIEJO, Calif., Sept. 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- UST, a leading digital transformation solutions company, has announced a strategic partnership with Green Grid Inc. (GGI) - a leading climate-focused technology development, integration and professional services business - to provide domain expertise, services and AI-enabled IT/OT solutions for Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) as well as critical infrastructure management in private and public sectors.
This partnership opens up new opportunities for both companies to advance solutions for fighting climate change. UST and GGI will leverage their expertise and experience to develop Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotic-driven process automation for energy infrastructure that increases safety and reliability while improving the effectiveness of hydrogen storage and delivery as well as photovoltaic (PV) panel cleaning systems. Furthermore, the partnership strengthens the ability of UST and GGI to act on their strong commitments to Transform Lives by bringing key products, services and solutions to bear. These innovations will be vital in addressing the climate crisis and resolving the critical problems facing humanity.
"Climate change has become a more pressing issue as inclement weather events rise in frequency. Climate-related events are becoming more common and much more destructive. With the advancing capabilities of technology and promising innovation on the horizon, we have the ability to address, mitigate and solve these challenges. But it requires precision focus, with the right technology being used to solve the right problem at the right time. The partnership between UST and GGI will make that possible, expanding opportunities for our existing clients as well as the industry in general," said Kuruvilla Mathew, Chief Innovation Architect, UST.
"Our advanced solutions and services are oriented towards climate protection, adaptation and resilience by harnessing the power of hard science and heavy technology. With the partnership with UST, we can serve UST and GGI's combined global customer base in aerospace, energy, utilities, advanced clean transportation and precision agriculture industries and beyond, to ensure a better world for future generations," stated Jeff Pickles, Co-founder and Executive Vice President, GGI.
As a leader in the technology industry, UST seeks to partner with dynamic firms that will help it scale, expand and accelerate value creation. The partnership with GGI, a climate-tech front runner, is the latest example of this comprehensive global strategy in practice.
About UST
For more than 22 years, UST has worked side by side with the world's best companies to make a real impact through transformation. Powered by technology, inspired by people, and led by our purpose, we partner with our clients from design to operation. Through our nimble approach, we identify their core challenges and craft disruptive solutions that bring their vision to life. With deep domain expertise and a future-proof philosophy, we embed innovation and agility into our clients' organizations—delivering measurable value and lasting change across industries, and around the world. Together, with over 30,000 employees in 30 countries, we build for boundless impact—touching billions of lives in the process. Visit us at ust.com
About GGI
Green Grid Inc. (GGI) provides transformative climate technology solutions and services. It operates through two major segments: Climate Adaptation and Resilience (CAR) Technology Platform and Climate Protection and Decarbonization (CPD) Automation Services. The company's platform and services empower its customers to improve their environmental sustainability measures, operational safety, efficiency and profitability. It offers proprietary solutions, iSIU™ for Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), Computer Vision (CV) and Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enhanced energy infrastructure safety and wildfire risk mitigation, RiHyDS™ for LiDAR, CV and AI-enabled safe hydrogen storage and delivery system, CV and AI-enabled autonomous solar Photovoltaic (PV) panel cleaner, LiDAR and Geospatial data analytics for remote solar energy site assessment and design, electric power line and vegetation virtual inspection, utility ignited wildfire and environmental, social & governance (ESG) risk management services in private and public sectors. The company was founded in 2011 and is headquartered in San Ramon, California. Visit us at https://www.greengridinc.com/
Media Contacts, UST:
Tinu Cherian Abraham
+1 (949) 415-9857
Merrick Laravea
+1 (949) 416-6212
Neha Misri
+91-9284726602
media.relations@ust.com
Media Contacts, U.S.:
S&C PR
+1-646.941.9139
media@scprgroup.com
Makovsky
ust@makovsky.com
Media Contacts, Australia:
Team Lewis
ust@teamlewis.com
Media Contacts, U.K.:
FTI Consulting
UST@fticonsulting.com
Media Contact, GGI:
Tony Green, MBA
+1 (925) 855-3224
info@greengridinc.com
Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1422658/UST_Logo.jpg
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SOURCE UST | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/ust-partners-with-ggi-accelerate-innovation-green-technology-marketplace/ | 2022-09-14T14:41:03Z |
Some scams never die
I haven’t been to an arcade in a long time, so have no idea if the Whac-A-Mole game is still around. As soon as you’d knock down one mole, another one would pop up. But I do know that its crooked cousin, the credit card interest rate reduction scam, just won’t go away.
In 2012, the FTC declared “Rachel from Cardholder Services” public enemy number one. Rachel, who was really a computer that also used other names such as Tiffany, would robocall consumers and offer to reduce the interest rate on their credit cards. She might imply that the benefit was part of a new government program to help financially distressed consumers.
Consumers who pressed 1 to hear the offer would be connected to a live operator who was likely in a boiler room somewhere overseas. The operator would claim or imply an affiliation with the consumer’s credit card issuer, get enough information to determine if the consumer had sufficient credit to accommodate a hefty fee, and then fool the consumer into agreeing to pay for the service.
After the consumer paid the fee, one of three things would happen:
- Nothing.
- The crooks would simply connect the consumer to the credit card issuer in a three-way call and have the consumer ask for a reduction in the interest rate.
- The crooks would open up a new account for the consumer with an introductory low or zero percent interest rate and transfer the existing card balance to it. Any savings would be temporary at best and be exceeded by balance transfer fees and the fee paid to the crooks.
The FTC shut down six credit card interest rate reduction scams between 2012 and 2015, and just settled a case brought in 2020. State Attorneys General have joined with the FTC in some cases and filed others on their own. There’s no telling what the total number of cases has been in the past ten years, and no reason to suspect there won’t be new ones.
How lucrative are these scams? In one case, the FTC was able to recoup $11 million that it refunded to more than 11,000 consumers. In the most recent case, victims paid upfront fees ranging from $995 to $4,995. The FTC got judgments totaling $5.3 million against the various defendants, which would approximate how much they took in, but was only able to recover $425,000.
In bringing the recent case jointly with the FTC, Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody said, “Instead of receiving the promised relief, victims were brought down further into debt while the defendants made millions.”
The FTC and BBB offer these tips to avoid becoming the victim of a credit card interest rate reduction scam:
- The robocalls themselves are illegal, so there’s no chance the offer they’re peddling is legitimate.
- Don’t share your credit card, bank account, or Social Security numbers — or any other personal information — with anyone who calls you out of the blue. Once a scammer has your information, they can use it to commit other fraud against you.
- Don’t pay a company any money before they help you. That includes services to reduce your credit card’s interest rate. It’s illegal for these companies to charge you before they’ve actually done something.
- Hang up on robocalls.
Randy Hutchinson is the president of the Better Business Bureau of the Mid-South. Reach the BBB at 800-222-8754. | https://www.jacksonsun.com/story/news/2022/04/21/some-scams-never-die/7405913001/ | 2022-04-22T06:31:40Z |
BELTON — Services for Brenda Joyce Willingham, 82, of Salado are pending with Dossman Funeral Home in Belton.
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WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama returned to the White House on Tuesday to savor the 12th anniversary of his signature Affordable Care Act, which is now part of the fabric of the American health care system and whose reach President Joe Biden is looking to extend.
Sign-ups under the health law have increased under Biden’s stewardship, and more generous taxpayer subsidies have cut costs for enrollees, albeit temporarily.
Obama’s last time in the mansion was Jan. 20, 2017, when he left to escort his successor, a president-elect bent on overturning “Obamacare,” to the Capitol to be inauguration.
“It’s good to be back in the White House. It’s been a while,” Obama said in the East Room after he was introduced by Vice President Kamala Harris. He opened by referring to Biden as “vice president” before acknowledging the joke and embracing his former No. 2.
Obama said he and Biden accomplished “a lot” in their eight years as stewards of the country, but “nothing made me prouder than providing better health care and more protections to millions of people across this country.”
“The ACA was an example of why you run for office in the first place,” Obama said, calling it the “high point of my time here.”
Biden and Obama marked the 12th anniversary of the law, which back in 2010 the then-vice president had memorably called a “big (expletive) deal.” Its staying power has been enhanced by three Supreme Court victories and an emphatic thumbs-down vote by the late Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., which took the wind out of President Donald Trump’s efforts to repeal and replace it.
The law was such a bugaboo in 2010 that Democrats rarely invoked it as they went into a midterm election that turned out to be, in Obama’s own words, a “shellacking.” Now, Democrats are hoping the political equation will work to their advantage, and that a focus on shoring up the tween-age health law can help them avoid a debacle at the polls this November.
In addition to talking health care at the White House, Biden and Obama met over lunch, recalling their weekly ritual when Biden served as Obama’s vice president.
“They are real friends, not just Washington friends,” said White House press secretary Jen Psaki.
Vice President Kamala Harris called on Congress to allow Medicare to negotiate the price of prescription drugs and to make permanent subsidies for the Affordable Care Act that were included in Biden’s pandemic relief bill. Harris also called out 12 states that have not expanded eligibility for Medicaid.
Obama likes to refer to his health care law as a “starter home” that Americans can build upon, gradually reducing the 9% share of the population that remains uninsured. The rate was nearly 15% in 2013, before the coverage provisions of the law took effect. Between the health law’s Medicaid expansion and its health insurance markets, more than 30 million people are now estimated to be getting coverage.
Shortly after taking office, Biden opened up the health insurance markets to anyone seeking coverage during the COVID-19 pandemic, and his coronavirus relief bill provided a significant, though temporary, increase in financial assistance. The result was a record 14.5 million people signed up for subsidized private coverage.
When it comes to how to keep that trend going, Obama and Biden have no shortage of options to discuss.
The Biden administration has been working on a fix to what’s known as the law’s family glitch, a quirk estimated to be keeping about 5 million people from getting coverage under the law. The White House announced the new policy proposal Tuesday.
People tripped up by the family glitch are dependents of workers who have an offer of employer coverage that the government interprets as being affordable. As a rule, people with affordable employer coverage are not eligible for taxpayer-subsidized ACA plans.
But the issue with the current interpretation is that affordability is determined by the cost for employee-only coverage, and not more expensive family policies. Workers able to afford their own share may not be able to cover premiums for the entire family. So the family is cut out of ACA coverage.
A Biden administration regulation addressing the issue recently cleared White House review. The intent of the original policy was to prevent people with employer coverage from going into the health law’s subsidized markets, but advocates say it has proven too restrictive.
The White House estimates that the fix would help 200,000 people get insurance and bring costs down for nearly 1 million more.
There are more fundamental issues for the two presidents to consider as well, both policy-wise and politically.
Unless Democrats in Congress finally coalesce around a version of Biden’s social legislation, his enhanced financial assistance for millions purchasing ACA plans will expire at the end of this year. A return to higher premiums would likely trigger an increase in the number of uninsured people, a political embarrassment for Democrats committed to expanding coverage.
The Biden legislation, which passed the House but sputtered in the Senate, also includes a mechanism for providing coverage to as many as 4 million uninsured low-income adults in states that have refused the health law’s Medicaid expansion. It would deliver on Biden’s campaign promise to build on existing government programs to move the U.S. closer to coverage for all. | https://cw33.com/health/ap-health/biden-obama-white-house-reunion-to-celebrate-health-law/ | 2022-04-05T18:48:47Z |
(NEXSTAR) – Millions of Americans will soon have some or all of their federal student loan debt forgiven following a Wednesday announcement by the Biden administration. But one big question remains: how will you receive your loan forgiveness if you qualify?
While the White House says 43 million borrowers can expect to receive relief – roughly 20 million of those are expected to have their remaining federal student loan balance completely erased – it’s not exactly clear how borrowers will apply for the forgiveness.
According to the U.S. Department of Education, nearly 8 million borrowers may qualify for relief automatically based on the income data the department already has.
If the Education Department doesn’t have your income data, or you’re unsure if the agency has it, there isn’t much to do right now.
Instead, you’ll need to wait for the Biden administration to launch an application process, which will be available “in the coming weeks.” The application will be available before the student loan repayment pause ends on December 31.
You can register to be notified when the application is available through the Department of Education by filling out this form.
On Wednesday, President Biden announced “targeted student debt cancellation” to help “borrowers at highest risk of delinquencies or default once payments resume.”
Forgiveness is restricted based on income. Borrowers “with annual income during the pandemic of under $125,000 (for individuals) or under $250,000 (for married couples or heads of households)” will be eligible for up to $10,000 in relief, according to the Department of Education.
Borrowers under the same income caps who received a Pell Grant in college will be eligible for up to $20,000 in debt cancellation. Not sure if you have a Pell Grant? Here’s how to find out.
In addition to student loan forgiveness, the Biden administration extended the payment pause on loans until the end of 2022, proposed a new rule to change to create a new income-driven repayment plan that will substantially reduce future monthly payments for lower- and middle-income borrowers, and proposed long-term changes to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. | https://cw33.com/news/nexstar-media-wire/what-we-know-about-applying-for-student-loan-forgiveness/ | 2022-08-25T00:44:50Z |
The Kentucky Derby leads off the first Triple Crown season in decades without the chance of Bob Baffert officially winning one or more of the three races.
Baffert’s absence while suspended shadows over the race, particularly because two horses he trained for a significant period of time are among the top contenders. Former assistant Tim Yakteen would get the credit if Taiba or Messier wins after taking over training duties.
“It’s a talking point, but it’s not a distraction other than that,” retired jockey Jerry Bailey said. “To me, the only thing that’s going to be different is the record books.”
Taiba could become the first horse since 1883 to win the Derby with two or fewer previous starts. Baffert-trained Justify won it on the way to sweeping the Triple Crown in 2018 after racing just three times before the first Saturday in May.
“Times have changed in that regard,” NBC Sports analyst Randy Moss said. “Horses run much less often now leading into the Kentucky Derby in general, so it was just a matter of time.”
This is Bailey’s 34th Derby and Moss’ 41st, with many of them on the NBC Sports set and around the Churchill Downs barns and track together for more than a decade. They tend to agree more often than not, with the notable exception of 2014 when they disagreed about the ride jockey Victor Espinoza gave California Chrome in losing the Belmont with the chance to end the sport’s lengthy Triple Crown drought.
Asked if there was a potential Triple Crown winner in this crop of 3-year-olds, Moss said it was impossible to say and pointed to plenty of near-misses over the years. Bailey thinks lightly raced Taiba could be the one.
“If he were able to do this and win the Kentucky Derby, he still only has three starts this year,” said Bailey, who won the Derby twice. “With others maybe having peaked or close to being peaked to try and get to the Kentucky Derby and win it, he might be one that is just on the ascension.”
Among the 10 horses who entered the Derby with as little racing experience as Taiba over the past century-plus, none have come close to winning this race.
“The average margin of defeat’s been 25 lengths,” Moss said. “But the difference is none of those horses were given any chance at all to win. And this horse is completely different. This horse is in with an outstanding chance to win.”
Taiba faces a different challenge in a crowded, 20-horse field than his first two races with much more room to maneuver. Bailey said the challenge is for Mike Smith to try to replicate the trips Taiba got his first two times out of the starting gate to keep the colt comfortable.
“He hasn’t run against large fields, and he’s had very, very clean trips, no traffic,” Bailey said. “For Mike Smith, his biggest job is to get him out of the starting gate, which the horse does have some early speed and put him in a position where there’s not that many new things happening to him early in the race.”
A victory by Taiba would make Smith, 56, the oldest jockey to win the Derby. In his way are a record five jockeys from France and a few trainers not named Baffert looking to capture the first jewel of the Triple Crown for the first time.
Steve Asmussen, who has the most wins of any trainer in North America, has the expected favorite in Epicenter. Chad Brown’s Zandon is another serious challenger who is training well and could give the champion trainer his first Derby victory.
Crown Pride would be the first Japan-based horse to win any Triple Crown race. He won the UAE Derby in March in Dubai.
The post position draw is Monday in Louisville.
___
More AP sports: https://apnews.com/hub/apf-sports and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://cw33.com/sports/ap-sports/kentucky-derby-leads-off-triple-crown-without-bob-baffert/ | 2022-05-01T20:35:37Z |
BRUSSELS (AP) — The European Union has slashed its forecasts for economic growth in the 27-nation bloc amid the prospect of a drawn-out Russian war in Ukraine and disruptions to energy supplies.
The EU’s gross domestic product will expand 2.7% this year and 2.3% in 2023, the bloc’s executive arm said Monday — its first economic predictions since Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24.
The European Commission’s previous outlook expected growth of 4% this year and 2.8% in 2023. The EU economy expanded 5.4% last year following a deep recession prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic. GDP shrank 5.9% in 2020.
“Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has posed new challenges, just as the union had recovered from the economic impacts of the pandemic,” the commission said when releasing the forecast. “The war is exacerbating pre-existing headwinds to growth.”
The war has darkened what was generally a bright economic picture for the EU. Early this year, European policymakers were counting on solid, if weaker, growth while grappling with surging inflation triggered by a global energy squeeze.
Now, energy has become a key problem for the EU as it seeks sanctions that deny Russia tens of billions in trade revenue without plunging member countries into recession. Soaring energy prices are driving record inflation, making everything from food to transport and housing more expensive.
Russia is the EU’s top supplier of oil, natural gas and coal, accounting for around a quarter of the bloc’s total energy. EU imports of energy from Russia last year totaled 99 billion euros ($103 billion), or 62% of the bloc’s purchases of Russian goods.
An EU ban on coal from Russia is due to start in August, and a voluntary effort is underway to reduce demand for Russian natural gas by two-thirds this year. A proposed oil embargo has hit roadblocks amid reservations from some landlocked countries that are highly dependent on Russian oil, such as Hungary.
All of this has left the EU scrambling to secure alternative supplies of energy in the coming months, including from fossil-fuel exporting countries such as the United States and from domestic renewable sources meant to help the bloc achieve its longer-term climate goals.
“Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is leading to an economic decoupling of the EU from Russia, with consequences that are difficult to fully apprehend at this stage,” the European Commission said.
The latest forecast also paints a gloomier inflation picture as a result of the increases in energy prices. EU-wide inflation is now expected to be 6.8% this year and 3.2% in 2023 — well above the previous projections of 3.9% and 1.9%, respectively.
European Economy Commissioner Paolo Gentiloni warned that even the new economic outlook could be too optimistic in view of the war.
“Our forecast is subject to very high uncertainty and risks,” Gentiloni said. “Other scenarios are possible under which growth may be lower and inflation higher than we are projecting.”
In the months before the invasion, a worldwide energy crunch had driven inflation in Europe to record highs. That trend has accelerated during the conflict, with inflation in the 19 countries that share the euro currency hitting 7.5% in April.
This has set the stage for the European Central Bank to possibly bring to an end to years of loose monetary policy in coming months — including record-low interest rates — meant to help fuel economic activity.
The bank, which has an inflation target of 2%, has maintained its interest rates at zero or less and kept other market borrowing costs low by purchasing hundreds of billions of euros of assets in financial markets.
Bank officials have signaled a reversal in both policies starting as soon as this summer but are balancing how to target inflation without weighing on economic growth. The central banks of the U.S. and the United Kingdom have raised interest rates this year to counter galloping inflation.
Gentiloni on Monday would not rule out the possibility of the EU falling into stagflation — the combination of a stagnant economy and rising inflation — while saying such a risk remained remote.
“This is possible if the negative scenario materializes, but this is not our base forecast,” Gentiloni said. “But indeed we have very high inflation and quite low growth.” | https://cw33.com/business/ap-business/eu-cuts-forecast-for-economic-growth-as-wars-fallout-widens/ | 2022-05-16T14:23:09Z |
A recently retired truck driver who traveled across the country for decades has been charged in a California woman's death, just weeks after he was arrested in Texas for another woman's killing, prosecutors said.
Douglas Thomas, 67, was charged Friday in the death of Sherri Herrera, a 30-year-old mother of four who was found on a highway on-ramp in March 1993, the Riverside County, California, district attorney's office said in a news release.
Herrera was last seen alive a few days before her body was found, the release said.
The office also filed a special circumstance allegation of murder during the commission of a rape, according to the news release.
It is unclear if Thomas has legal representation. Throughout more than 40 years working as a truck driver, Thomas traveled extensively, the release added.
Just weeks before the district attorney's announcement, authorities in Texas arrested Thomas on the suspicion of murder for the April 1992 killing of a woman found in Titus County.
"Thomas was connected by authorities to that murder by a DNA match to evidence from that crime scene," the district attorney's office said.
Thomas was taken into custody in Texas in late May under a $2 million bond on a murder warrant for the April 1992 killing, according to CNN affiliate KWTX, which cited a search warrant affidavit filed by a Texas Ranger.
The woman's body was found near a rest area along a highway and an investigation showed she was strangled "with a device made of wire and cord," according to the affiliate. There was also evidence of sexual assault, the affiliate reported.
Investigators from the two different states were able to make the connection with the help of forensic genealogy: An investigator with the district attorney's office in California uploaded DNA profile from the scene of Herrera's killing in 2002 and roughly five years later, there was a match connecting the killings in the two states, KWTX reported.
After forensic genealogy investigations from both cases, the Riverside investigator contacted the Texas Ranger on the case, informing him of several people in Texas who were "in the right genetic range for comparison," the station said.
Authorities took a DNA sample from Thomas in late April and the results matched the suspect profile, according to KWTX.
While he was in custody in Texas, investigators from California traveled to Texas and interviewed Thomas about Herrera's killing, the news release said.
Thomas remains in custody in Texas, where he will be prosecuted for the 1992 murder, the release said. The Riverside County district attorney's office will then request he be extradited to California to be prosecuted for Herrera's death.
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved. | https://www.albanyherald.com/news/truck-driver-jailed-for-a-texas-killing-charged-with-another-death-in-california-authorities-say/article_62c3b93a-e782-5346-b3c4-960bd0d0ad64.html | 2022-06-11T23:11:03Z |
TEL AVIV, Israel, May 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Lutris Pharma, a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company focused on improving anti-cancer therapies by reducing dose limiting side effects, today announced that Benjamin W. Corn, MD, PhD, Chief Medical Officer, will present a company overview at the Bio€quity Europe 2022 conference taking place in Milan, Italy May 17-18, 2022 and virtually, May 23-24, 2022.
- May 17-18: As part of this year's "Next Wave" (rising biotechnology companies) presentation track, Dr. Corn's pre-recorded presentation is now available on-demand for attendees and for 30-days after the conference. Additionally, Noa Shelach, Ph.D, Chief Executive Officer, will be available for both in-person and virtual one-on-one meetings with registered attendees.
- May 23-24: Dr. Shelach will be available for virtual one-on-one meetings with registered attendees.
The Bio€quity Europe one-on-one partnering platform enables partners and investors to schedule meetings. If interested, please register at: https://informaconnect.com/bioequity-europe/registration-options/ or contact Michael Miller at mmiller@rxir.com.
About Lutris Pharma
Lutris Pharma is a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company focused on improving anti-cancer therapy effectiveness and quality of life for patients who are being treated with EGFR (Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor) inhibitors or with radiation, where dermal toxicity often leads to a reduction of anti-cancer therapy compliance. The company aims to provide novel topical therapies in order to mitigate these side effects. Lutris Pharma's lead asset, LUT014, a topical B-Raf Inhibitor, is a proprietary, first-in-class, small molecule currently in a phase 2 clinical trial in metastatic colorectal cancer patients with EGFR inhibitor induced acneiform lesions and a phase 1/2 study for the treatment of radiation-induced dermatitis in breast cancer patients. For more information, please visit www.lutris-pharma.com.
Contacts:
Lutris Pharma
Noa Shelach, Ph.D.
Chief Executive Officer
ir@lutris-pharma.com
Rx Communications Group
Michael Miller
+1-917-633-6086
mmiller@rxir.com
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SOURCE Lutris Pharma | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/05/03/lutris-pharma-present-bioquity-europe-conference/ | 2022-05-03T12:19:57Z |
NEW YORK, Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- AXA XL Insurance is welcoming three new colleagues to its Cyber and Technology Errors & Omission (E&O) insurance business in North America -- Deuayne Crawford as Head of Cyber for the Northeast in New York; Marisa Vero as Senior Underwriter in Los Angeles; and Hannah Baker as Underwriter in St. Paul, Minnesota.
According to AXA XL's Head of Cyber and Tech E&O Jeremy Gittler, "The demand for cyber insurance is showing no signs of cooling down. Businesses of all kinds, of all sizes are concerned about their cyber risks. As one of the top cyber insurance markets, we continue to attract top industry talent like Deuayne, Marisa and Hannah, giving us more bandwidth to address current market demands, and providing us with more cyber expertise that our brokers and clients can rely on to structure appropriate cyber insurance solutions for them."
Mr. Crawford assumes the overall underwriting management responsibilities in the Northeast, the largest region for AXA XL's Cyber business. He joins from Ironshore, where he was responsible for managing underwriting for cyber, media, technology and miscellaneous professional liability insurance for mid-cap and large-cap clients. Mr. Crawford earned his undergraduate degree from Binghamton University and his Master of Science in Insurance Management from Boston University. He holds CPCU (Charter Property Casualty Underwriter) and RPLU+ (Registered Professional Liability Underwriter+) designations.
Ms. Vero joins AXA XL's West Zone from Zurich North America, where she worked as a senior management liability underwriter, providing D&O, Employment Practices, Fiduciary, Crime, and Kidnap and Ransom solutions. She has also held underwriting positions at Chubb and Hiscox. Ms. Vero is a graduate of the University at Buffalo.
Ms. Baker joins AXA XL to support the Cyber and Tech E&O insurance needs of brokers and clients throughout AXA XL's Central Zone. Ms. Baker began her insurance career at Marsh, and most recently served as a Senior Account Underwriter at Travelers. She is a graduate of St. Cloud State University.
Follow AXA XL on Twitter and on LinkedIn.
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SOURCE AXA XL | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/axa-xl-adds-more-underwriting-talent-cyber-insurance-business-north-america/ | 2022-08-18T17:07:07Z |
Morning in America Close You have been added to Daily News Newsletter Subscribe Now Daily News Sign Up | https://cw33.com/morning-in-america/ | 2022-04-29T19:54:16Z |
Dramatically altered workplace dynamics require innovative use of technology for talent engagement and retention
NEW YORK, June 27, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Executives are confident they can maintain their culture in a long-term hybrid work environment, but at the same time remain concerned about negative impacts the pandemic has had on employee experience, according to a new study released today by Genpact (NYSE: G), a global professional services firm focused on delivering digital transformation.
Conducted with FORTUNE Brand Studio, Tech for Progress 360 is a three-part series analyzing how companies are using technology to drive impact beyond the bottom line. The series examines business progress across three distinct objectives: enhancing workforce culture; delivering environmental sustainability; and achieving diversity, equity, and inclusion.
The first report, Tech for Progress 360: Engage employees, strengthen company culture, examines the challenges and opportunities businesses face as they embrace new working models. The study, which reflects input from 500 senior executives from large global enterprises, underscores technology's critical role in employee engagement and organizational culture. Indeed, among the respondents whose organizations were the biggest adopters of new technologies during the pandemic, 76% strongly agree that their company can maintain its culture in a hybrid working environment, vs. 35% of others.
Similarly, executives who say their companies' business performance improved significantly over the past two years are more likely to see the potential of groundbreaking technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced analytics to empower people to learn and grow.
"The rapid shift to remote work has been one of the most important management innovations of the past 20 years. It's proven work can be done remotely at scale. But in a post pandemic world, leading companies will be defined not just by their ability to get work done, but in their ability to create agile, adaptable, hybrid work environments that allow culture and creativity to thrive," said Tiger Tyagarajan, chief executive officer, Genpact. "To lead through this seismic shift, businesses must combine digital technologies and smart data to drive actionable insights that integrate employees into company culture, enable collaboration, and maintain learning and wellbeing — whether people work remotely, in the office, or blend both."
There are many lessons in workplace innovation that will enable the next generation workforce. For example, the report cites a large communications company which created an enterprise social site within its intranet that connects employees — including those who might never have otherwise met — to share stories, discuss best practices, socialize, and collaborate, allowing associates and leaders to connect on a more human level. This business is also updating its conference spaces with cameras and monitors to ensure people have the same experience regardless of whether they are in an onsite meeting room or remote.
Pandemic's lessons underscore future risks in corporate culture
While nearly all respondents (97%) believe their company has a shared culture it can maintain in a hybrid working environment, the report highlights fundamental areas businesses need to address, which if left untouched, could jeopardize their ability to maintain a community of shared values and positive employee experience:
- Network building – Almost everyone (91%) agrees that since the pandemic's onset, employee interactions have shifted toward problem-solving and away from socializing. While there are some positive benefits to this problem-solving focus, casual exchanges with colleagues enable people to build their networks and integrate with the culture.
- New-hire integration – Having opportunities for employees to connect and form relationships are critical to the onboarding experience and instilling shared values from the start. Almost half (48%) of executives surveyed say increased remote working has negatively impacted their organization's ability to integrate new hires into their culture.
- Cross-level relationship building – The bonds between colleagues across different levels of the organization are not being nurtured, potentially hindering development of future leaders. In fact, 42% of respondents say remote working has negatively impacted the connection between senior and junior leaders.
- Effective collaboration – In the hybrid world, people working in the office and remotely must be able to collaborate quickly and seamlessly. When asked which technology holds the greatest potential for enhancing teamwork, 59% of executives surveyed say virtual meeting technologies, but only 11% recognize the potential that improving onsite meeting room technologies has on effective collaboration, suggesting that aligning remote and office experiences may need more experimenting.
Collectively, the study's findings challenge businesses' ability to nurture a shared culture if they do not take heed of lessons from the pandemic while continuing to innovate for the future.
"As people adjust to a hybrid world, companies must remember that work requires collaboration and deep human connection — wherever it is performed," Tyagarajan stressed. "Technology can play an important role in supporting a hybrid environment that works for both employees and customers, while delivering long-term business and individual success."
The next two reports in the Tech for Progress 360 series will address the role of technology in environmental sustainability and enabling diversity, equity, and inclusion. For more information, see https://www.genpact.com/tech-for-progress/employees.
About the Research
Genpact and FORTUNE Brand Studio conducted an online survey of 500 senior executives across the U.S, U.K, Germany, Australia, Japan, and Canada in the fall of 2021 to study how companies are using technology beyond the bottom line by examining progress toward three distinct objectives: enhancing the employee experience; strengthening communities through diversity, equity, and inclusion; and protecting the environment About 30% of respondents hold C-level positions and the remainder are director-level or above. Respondents represent the finance, IT/technology, supply chain/procurement, operations/ production, compliance/risk, general management, digital innovation, business transformation, sales, marketing, and HR sectors. All respondents report annual company revenue of $1 billion or higher.
About Genpact
Genpact (NYSE: G) is a global professional services firm that makes business transformation real. Led by our purpose – the relentless pursuit of a world that works better for people – we drive digital-led innovation and digitally enabled intelligent operations for our clients. Guided by our experience reinventing and running thousands of processes for hundreds of clients, many of them Global Fortune 500 companies, we drive real-world transformation at scale. We think with design, dream in digital, and solve problems with data and analytics. Combining our expertise in end-to-end operations and our AI-based platform, Genpact Cora, we focus on the details – all 100,000+ of us. From New York to New Delhi, and more than 30 countries in between, we connect every dot, reimagine every process, and reinvent the ways companies work. We know that reimagining each step from start to finish creates better business outcomes. Whatever it is, we'll be there with you – accelerating digital transformation to create bold, lasting results – because transformation happens here. Get to know us at Genpact.com and on LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, and Facebook.
Media Contacts
Americas:
Danielle D'Angelo
danielle.dangelo@genpact.com, +1 914-336-7951
Australia:
Neha Chopra
neha.chopra1@genpact.com, +61 466-626-580
Europe/UK:
Judith Schunke,
judith.schunke@genpact.com, +44 (0)7887 661155
India:
Roopanki Kalra
Roopanki.Kalra@genpact.com, +91 9971634388
Japan:
Satoko Hashiba
satoko.hashiba@genpact.com, +81 80 4944 3907
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SOURCE Genpact | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/27/genpact-study-reveals-hybrid-workplace-dichotomy-executives-confident-they-can-maintain-corporate-culture-concerned-about-employee-experience/ | 2022-06-27T11:33:58Z |
VANCOUVER, BC, June 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - DESERT MOUNTAIN ENERGY CORP. (the "Company") (TSXV: DME) (OTC: DMEHF) (Frankfurt: QM01) Due to general negative market pressures over the weeks, and a corresponding reduction in the Company's trading price, the Company will be reducing the per unit price of the private placement announced June 8 and 21, 2022.
The price per Unit of the private placement will be reduced from $3.00 per Unit to $2.50 per Unit. All other terms and conditions of the private placement will remain the same, with each Unit consisting of one common share of the Company and one share purchase warrant. Each whole Warrant will allow the subscriber to purchase one additional share of the Company for a period of three (3) years from the date of the closing at a price of CAD $4.00 per share. The expiry of the Warrants may be accelerated at the election of the Company on the terms as previously stated. The Units will be subject to a 4-month hold period. The private placement is subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange.
Please refer to the Company's news releases of June 8 and 21, 2022 for further details.
ABOUT DESERT MOUNTAIN ENERGY
Desert Mountain Energy Corp. is a publicly traded resource company primarily focused on exploration, development and production of helium, hydrogen and noble gases. The Company is primarily looking for elements deemed critical to the renewable energy and high technology industries.
We seek safe harbor
"Robert Rohlfing"
Robert Rohlfing
Exec Chairman & CEO
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in polices of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. The statements made in this press release may contain certain forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Actual events or results may differ from the Company's expectations.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Such forward looking statements and information herein include but are not limited to statements regarding the Company's anticipated performance in the future the planned exploration activities, receipt of positive results from drilling, the completion of further drilling and exploration work, and the timing and results of various activities.
Forward-looking statements or information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company and its operations to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such statements. Such factors include, among others, changes in national and local governments, legislation, taxation, controls, regulations and political or economic developments in Canada and the United States; financial risks due to helium prices, operating or technical difficulties in exploration and development activities; risks and hazards and the speculative nature of resource exploration and related development; risks in obtaining necessary licenses and permits, and challenges to the Company's title to properties.
Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions management believes to be reasonable, including but not limited to the continued operation of the Company's exploration operations, no material adverse change in the market price of commodities, and such other assumptions and factors as set out herein. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or information, there may be other factors that cause results to be materially different from those anticipated, described, estimated, assessed or intended. There can be no assurance that any forward-looking statements or information will prove to be accurate as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements or information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. The Company does not intend to, and nor does not assume any obligation to update such forward-looking statements or information, other than as required by applicable law.
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SOURCE Desert Mountain Energy Corp. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/28/desert-mountain-energy-announces-private-placement-repricing/ | 2022-06-28T21:05:23Z |
Plant-Based Ganache Dessert Brand Offers Two Tempting Flavors to Harris Teeter Consumers
LOS ANGELES, Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Bon Dévil, a California, plant-based dessert brand, has launched into select Harris Teeter grocery stores with two decadent flavors: Choc and Vanilla. Each of Bon Dévil's 1.6 oz. dessert cups start with a coconut base and contain no dairy, no gluten, no GMOs and Vegan Certified, while boasting just 100 - 120 calories per serving. The brand launched in July with 1.6 oz. 4-Packs, at an SRP of $4.49.
Bon Dévil makes desserts that taste devilishly delicious but are far better for you than those that are traditionally-made. These decadent desserts are free of all the dessert and dairy sins. They're plant-based, with no dairy, gluten, lactose or GMOs, so consumers can indulge their desires and give into temptation without guilt. In addition to the flavors launching at Harris Teeter, Bon Dévil also makes Salted Caramel Choc and Caramelized Banana ganaches within the full breadth of the line. "We're excited to share Bon Dévil with the Harris Teeter family," shares Bon Dévil founder James Averdieck. "We know the consumers of Harris Teeter will love these wickedly delicious desserts that not only taste amazing but happen to be completely vegan."
Bon Dévil will continue to expand into additional retailers within the refrigerated dessert set. Stay up to date on the latest at bon-devil.com, including hellishly exciting news on additional retailers that have entered Bon Dévil's heavenly gates.
About Bon Dévil:
Few mortals can resist the devastating temptation of Bon Dévil's wickedly delicious coconut-based desserts. Born from the deepest darkest desires of grocery consumers, Bon Dévil comes in 4 different flavors and is 100% plant-based, gluten free, no evil GMO's, under 120 calories and sin free. Pure pleasure without the guilt, find Bon Dévil in major US Natural, Conventional and Mass Grocers.
www.bon-devil.com
www.instagram.com/thebondevil
www.facebook.com/thebondevil
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SOURCE Bon Dévil | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/bon-dvils-devilishly-delicious-chilled-desserts-now-available-harris-teeter/ | 2022-08-18T21:45:06Z |
The new add-on was Google Classroom's most-used partner integration during the past 6 months
SAN MATEO, Calif., Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- IXL, the personalized learning platform used by more than 13 million students, now offers a new add-on for Google Classroom, the popular learning management system (LMS) used by millions of students and teachers around the world. The add-on creates a seamless way for schools using Google Classroom and IXL to help educators simplify class management, personalize learning and capitalize on valuable instructional time. The add-on is available for Google Workspace customers with the Teaching & Learning Upgrade or Google Workspace for Education Plus, and an IXL school or district license.
"IXL and Google closely collaborated to develop a tool that helps teachers spend less time on logistics and focus more on student learning," said Suzanne Pelz, Vice President of Engineering at IXL Learning. "Schools using Google Classroom can now more deeply integrate IXL's powerful platform into daily instruction to make a bigger positive impact on student achievement."
A smooth, simple and safe integration
IXL's Google Classroom add-on provides easy access to IXL's most useful features, helping schools quickly register students, devote more time to teaching and enrich students' learning. Educators can assign coursework based on IXL skills, get on-demand assessment data from the Real-Time Diagnostic and access other important instructional resources directly from Google Classroom. If teachers need a deeper dive into IXL's actionable analytics, they can navigate to IXL directly from Google Classroom and be automatically signed in. Single sign-on and roster matching capabilities make it simple to set up and manage classes, while technology administrators can enable the add-on in minutes with minimal maintenance required.
IXL is an IMS Global Trusted Application and adheres to the highest standards of privacy and security. Additionally, IXL and Google worked hand-in-hand to ensure a reliable and safe integration of the two systems.
IXL's integrations seamlessly connect schools to vital educational resources that enhance teachers' ability to deliver differentiated instruction and boost student achievement. IXL's most helpful pages can be accessed securely by students through trusted single sign-on providers and learning management systems, eliminating the need to sign in separately or remember additional passwords. IXL's auto-rostering options also make it easy for educators to get started and ensure that rosters are always up to date. In addition to IXL's Google Classroom add-on, the platform offers LMS integrations with Schoology, Canvas and D2L Brightspace that provide similar capabilities.
IXL is an end-to-end teaching and learning solution that includes a comprehensive PK-12 curriculum and personalized guidance, instructional resources and classroom engagement tools, a first-of-its-kind assessment suite and actionable analytics for districts, schools, classrooms and individual learners.
Additionally, IXL offers district partnership, professional learning and implementation services. All integrated into a single platform, each component is designed to work together in harmony to give educators the tools and insights they need to maximize learning for every single student.
Media, please note: Screenshots of IXL may be downloaded at www.ixl.com/press. For demos and access to IXL, contact press@ixl.com.
Currently used by 13 million students and in all of the top 100 U.S. school districts, IXL is an all-inclusive educational platform that provides a comprehensive PK-12 curriculum and instructional resources, actionable analytics and a state-of-the-art assessment suite. IXL's end-to-end teaching and learning solution supports personalized instruction in math, English language arts, science, social studies and Spanish. With more than 110 billion questions asked and answered around the world, IXL is helping schools and parents successfully boost student achievement. The IXL Learning family of products also includes Rosetta Stone, Wyzant, Education.com, ABCya, Vocabulary.com and Curiosity Media. To learn more about IXL, visit www.ixl.com, facebook.com/IXL and twitter.com/IXLLearning.
Press Contact
Eric Bates
IXL Learning
press@ixl.com
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SOURCE IXL Learning | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/ixl-announces-google-classroom-add-on-streamline-educational-experiences/ | 2022-08-23T16:10:28Z |
Charles officially announced as king at royal ceremony
LONDON (AP) — King Charles III was officially announced as Britain’s monarch Saturday, in a pomp-filled ceremony steeped in ancient tradition and political symbolism — and, for the first time, broadcast live.
Charles automatically became king when his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, died on Thursday, but the accession ceremony is a key constitutional and ceremonial step in introducing the new monarch to the country.
Scores of senior politicians past and present, including Prime Minister Liz Truss and five of her predecessors, gathered in the ornate state apartments at St. James’s Palace for the meeting of the Accession Council.
They met without Charles, officially confirming his title, King Charles III. The king joined them to make a personal declaration, vowing to follow his mother’s “inspiring example” as he took on the duties of monarch.
“I am deeply aware of this great inheritance and of the duties and heavy responsibilities of sovereignty which have now passed to me,” he said.
Speaking of his personal grief, he said: “I know how deeply you and the entire nation, and I think I may say the whole world, sympathize with me in this irreparable loss we have all suffered.”
The new king formally approved a series of orders — including one declaring the day of his mother’s funeral a public holiday. The date of the state funeral has not been announced, but it is expected to be around Sept 19.
This is the first time the accession ceremony has been held since 1952, when Queen Elizabeth II took the throne.
Charles was accompanied at the ceremony by his wife Camilla, the Queen Consort, and his eldest son Prince William. William is now heir to the throne and known by the title Charles long held, Prince of Wales.
The ceremony ended with a royal official publicly proclaiming King Charles III the monarch from a balcony at the palace — a relic of centuries past, when this would have been the first official confirmation the public had of their new sovereign.
David White, the Garter King of Arms, made the proclamation flanked by trumpeters in gold-trimmed robes before leading cheers — “hip, hip, hooray!” — for the new king.
Gun salutes rang out in Hyde Park, at the Tower of London and at military sites around the U.K. as he announced the news, and scarlet-robed soldiers in the palace courtyard doffed their bearskin hats in a royal salute.
The proclamation will also be read out in the medieval City of London and at other locations across the U.K.
Two days after the 96-year-old queen died at Balmoral Castle in Scotland following an unprecedented 70 years on the throne, people still came in their thousands to pay their respects outside Buckingham Palace in London. The scene was repeated at other royal residences across the U.K. and at British embassies around the world.
The monarch set the tone for his reign on Friday, vowing in a televised address to carry on the queen’s “lifelong service,” with his own modernizing stamp.
Charles looked to both the past — noting his mother’s unwavering “dedication and devotion as sovereign” — and the future, seeking to strike a reassuring note of constancy while signaling that his will be a 21st-century monarchy.
He reflected on how the country had changed dramatically during the queen’s reign into a society “of many cultures and many faiths,” and pledged to serve people in Britain and the 14 other countries where he is king “whatever may be your background or beliefs.”
He also tried to overcome a reputation for aloofness in his first hours as monarch, spending time shaking hands with some of the thousands who came to leave flowers and pay tribute to the queen at the gates of Buckingham Palace. He was greeted with shouts of “Well done, Charlie!” and “God save the king!” One woman gave him a kiss on the cheek.
Britain is holding a period of mourning for the queen, with days of carefully choreographed ceremonies marking the death of the only monarch most people have ever known.
In the next few days the queen’s body will be brought from Balmoral, first to Edinburgh and then to London, where she will lie in state before a funeral at Westminster Abbey.
In his speech, Charles struck a personal note, speaking of his sorrow at the loss of “my darling Mama.”
“Thank you for your love and devotion to our family and to the family of nations you have served so diligently all these years,” he said, ending with a quote from Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” — “May flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.’”
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.kxii.com/2022/09/10/charles-officially-announced-king-royal-ceremony/ | 2022-09-10T11:03:38Z |
PHOENIX, April 12, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- SAFEbuilt is excited to be helping with development for the nation's 5th largest city. The City of Phoenix is continuing to grow and attract new business, creating a huge demand for services like plan reviews that begin the building process. SAFEbuilt is now providing those services to Phoenix with their National Plan Review Team.
On February 1, 2022, SAFEbuilt started working with the City, providing Commercial Plan Reviews. Leveraging electronic plan review technology, this team can perform reviews from anywhere in the country, while ensuring plans follow the specific codes adopted by the City of Phoenix. "Our NPR Review team provides our clients with a deep bench of experienced talent that can be scaled up or down with development demands," says Joe DeRosa, Chief Revenue Officer for SAFEbuilt, "this model helps keep projects on track without straining municipal staff or budgets."
SAFEbuilt's Senior Director, Steve Nero, is excited about the contract with Phoenix, "Our team has the extensive capabilities and experience to provide the City with electronic plan review services, as well as a number of other municipal services we offer, and establish a long-term partnership that will help the City achieve their goals in service of the Phoenix community."
As development in Phoenix continues to grow, SAFEbuilt will help better position the City to respond to increases in building activity and keep projects moving forward without compromising safety standards in the process.
About SAFEbuilt
SAFEbuilt is a national leader in providing community development and community infrastructure services that improve flexibility, optimizes budget dollars, minimizes disruptions, and increases speed to revenue for more than 1,500 communities nationwide. Offering a breadth of professional services and support options, SAFEbuilt helps communities and developers achieve their growth goals while meeting their budget needs. To learn more, visit SAFEbuilt.com.
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SOURCE SAFEbuilt | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/04/12/safebuilt-secures-contract-assist-americas-5th-largest-city-with-plan-review-services/ | 2022-04-12T14:49:52Z |
RENO, Nev., May 25, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- AMERCO (Nasdaq: UHAL), parent of U-Haul International, Inc., Oxford Life Insurance Company, Repwest Insurance Company and Amerco Real Estate Company, today reported net earnings available to shareholders for the year ended March 31, 2022, of $1,123.3 million, or $57.29 per share, compared with $610.9 million, or $31.15 per share for the same period last year.
For the quarter ended March 31, 2022, the Company reported net earnings available to shareholders of $86.7 million, or $4.42 per share compared with net earnings of $73.8 million, or $3.76 per share for the same period last year.
"Our teams worked hard to take care of new and existing customers over the past year. We were rewarded with increased business," stated Joe Shoen, chairman of AMERCO. "We are now in less certain times with significant inflation, large gas price increases and disruptions with nearly every significant supplier. Many companies are experiencing this. This is not particularly unique. We will just have to work through this. We are focused on our customer."
- Self-moving equipment rental revenues increased $79.0 million, or nearly 12%, in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2022 compared with the fourth quarter of fiscal 2021, and finished the full year up $875.5 million, or 28%, compared with fiscal 2021. The revenue improvement for the quarter was in both the In-town and one-way markets and primarily came from increased average revenue per transaction along with transactions. Compared to the same period last year, we increased the number of retail locations, independent dealers, trucks, trailer and towing devices.
- Self-storage revenues increased $36.8 million, or 28%, in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2022 compared with the fourth quarter of fiscal 2021, and for the full year increased $139.9 million, or 29%, compared with fiscal 2021. The average number of occupied units increased by 23%, or 92,600 units, during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2022 compared with the same period last year. Occupancy for all locations increased 8.3% to 82.6% from the fourth quarter of last year to this year while occupancy for the subsection of these locations that have been at 80% occupancy for the last two years was 95.9%. In fiscal 2022, we added approximately 4.6 million net rentable square feet, or a 10% increase.
- Moving and Storage other revenues increased $15.7 million during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2022, compared with the fourth quarter of fiscal 2021 and $139.0 million for the full year compared with fiscal 2021, largely from increased moving and storage transactions within our U-Box program.
- For the quarter, depreciation on the rental equipment fleet increased $5.1 million while all other depreciation increased $4.5 million from buildings and improvements. Net gains on the sales of rental equipment increased $42.2 million. For the full fiscal year depreciation on the rental fleet increased $17.5 million while all other depreciation increased $15.5 million largely from buildings and improvements. Net gains on the sale of rental equipment increased $160.1 million.
- Fleet maintenance and repair costs increased $32.5 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2022 compared with the same period last year and $126.4 million for the full year of fiscal 2022. Increased customer use of the rental equipment combined with a slowdown in the rotation of new equipment into the fleet and older equipment out of the fleet is primarily responsible for the additional costs.
- Other operating costs at the Moving and Storage segment increased $94.1 million in the fourth quarter compared to the same period last year and $357.5 million for the full fiscal year 2022. The largest contributors to this were personnel, liability costs, freight, payment processing fees, utilities and property taxes.
- Operating earnings at our Moving and Storage operating segment increased $17.1 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2022 compared with the same period last year. Total revenues increased $131.6 million and total costs and expenses increased $114.5 million.
- Gross rental equipment capital expenditures for fiscal 2022 were approximately $1,061 million compared with approximately $870 million for fiscal 2021. Capital expenditures for the rental fleet, depending upon manufacturer availability, are expected to increase in fiscal 2023. Proceeds from the sales of rental equipment were approximately $602 million for fiscal 2022 compared with $527 million in fiscal 2021. Spending on real estate related acquisitions and projects increased approximately $499 million to $1,004 million in fiscal 2022 compared with fiscal 2021.
- Cash and credit availability at the Moving and Storage operating segment was $2,723.2 million and $1,115.3 million as of March 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
AMERCO will hold its investor call for fiscal 2022 on Thursday, May 26, 2022, at 8 a.m. Arizona Time (11 a.m. Eastern). The call will be broadcast live over the internet at www.amerco.com. To hear a simulcast of the call, or a replay, visit www.amerco.com.
AMERCO is the parent company of U-Haul International, Inc., Oxford Life Insurance Company, Repwest Insurance Company and Amerco Real Estate Company. U-Haul is in the shared use business and was founded on the fundamental philosophy that the division of use and specialization of ownership is good for both U-Haul customers and the environment.
Since 1945, U-Haul has been the No. 1 choice of do-it-yourself movers, with a network of more than 23,000 locations across all 50 states and 10 Canadian provinces. U-Haul Truck Share 24/7 offers secure access to U-Haul trucks every hour of every day through the customer dispatch option on their smartphones and our proprietary Live Verify technology. Our customers' patronage has enabled the U-Haul fleet to grow to approximately 186,000 trucks, 128,000 trailers and 46,000 towing devices. U-Haul is the third largest self-storage operator in North America and offers 876,000 rentable storage units and 75.1 million square feet of self-storage space at owned and managed facilities. U-Haul is the largest retailer of propane in the U.S., and continues to be the largest installer of permanent trailer hitches in the automotive aftermarket industry. U-Haul has been recognized repeatedly as a leading "Best for Vets" employer and was recently named one of the 15 Healthiest Workplaces in America.
Certain of the statements made in this press release regarding our business constitute forward-looking statements as contemplated under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results may differ materially from those anticipated as a result of various risks and uncertainties. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements that speak only as of the date hereof. The Company undertakes no obligation to publish revised forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law. For a brief discussion of the risks and uncertainties that may affect AMERCO's business and future operating results, please refer to our Form 10-K for the year ended March 31, 2022, which is on file with the SEC.
Listed below on a consolidated basis are revenues for our major product lines for the fourth quarter and the full year of fiscal 2022 and 2021.
Listed below are revenues and earnings from operations at each of our operating segments for the fourth quarter and the full year of fiscal 2022 and 2021
The Company owns and manages self-storage facilities. Self-storage revenues reported in the consolidated financial statements represent Company-owned locations only. Self-storage data for our owned storage locations follows:
As of April 1, 2019, we adopted the new accounting standard for leases. Part of this adoption resulted in approximately $1 billion of property, plant and equipment, net ("PPE") being reclassed to Right of use assets - financing, net ("ROU-financing"). As of March 31, 2022, the balance of ROU-financing also includes the rental equipment purchased under new financing liability leases during fiscal 2022. The tables below shows adjusted PPE as of March 31, 2022 and 2021, by including the ROU-financing. The assets included in ROU-financing are not a true book value as some of the assets are recorded at between 70% and 100% of value based on the lease agreement.
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SOURCE AMERCO | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/05/25/amerco-reports-fiscal-2022-financial-results/ | 2022-05-25T20:38:32Z |
SAN FRANCISCO, April 22, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Salesforce (NYSE: CRM), the global leader in CRM, today announced it has granted equity awards under its 2014 Inducement Equity Incentive Plan (the "Plan") to new employees who joined Salesforce in connection with the acquisition of Atonit Tecnologia da Informação Ltda ("Atonit").. The Plan was adopted by the Salesforce Board of Directors in July 2014, in accordance with New York Stock Exchange Rule 303A.08.
Atonit, a Brazilian e-Commerce technology company, is built on the Salesforce platform and offers a marketplace management solution that is easy to start for new marketplace operators and highly scalable for growing businesses to meet operators' needs.
Through the Plan, Salesforce granted a total of 25,251 restricted stock units ("RSUs") to 58 Atonit employees. The RSUs vest over four years with 25 percent of the RSUs vesting on the first anniversary of the grant date and the balance vesting quarterly thereafter in 12 equal installments, subject to continued service through each applicable vesting date. Each of the employees who received an equity award is a non-executive officer.
Salesforce, the global CRM leader, empowers companies of every size and industry to digitally transform and create a 360° view of their customers. For more information about Salesforce (NYSE: CRM), visit: www.salesforce.com.
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SOURCE Salesforce | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/04/22/salesforce-grants-equity-awards-atonit-employees-under-its-inducement-equity-incentive-plan/ | 2022-04-23T00:37:11Z |
ADVANCEMENTS IN TREATMENTS & TECHNOLOGY
ACCURACY, PRECISION & RAPID RESULTS
BOCA RATON, Fla., July 21, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- With topics such as Alopecia Areata (the impetus of the infamous Oscars Slap) and Covid Related Hair Shedding continuing to make headlines, hair loss remains a top-of-mind issue for the masses. The American Hair Loss Association estimates that at least 80 million men and women are currently suffering from hair loss across the country. August officially marks Hair Loss Awareness Month (HLAM) and is advantageous for addressing advancements in treatments and technology. Internationally recognized, ABHRS-Certified Hair Restoration Surgeon Dr. Alan J. Bauman, and mastermind behind Biohacking Baldness, discusses the newest effective technology aimed at both preserving and restoring hair.
Alma "TransEpidermal Delivery" or TED is a breakthrough ultrasound-based system with a proprietary tip that delivers a noninvasive, non-traumatic, in-office treatment option to address hair shedding and hair thinning. TED is a Class 1 medical device and is clinically proven to minimize shedding, improve hair growth and scalp health. Alma-TED uses low-frequency "ultrasonic" sound waves and air pressure to drive powerful topical hair growth treatments into the skin and promote increased blood flow to the scalp. It is ideal for patients that want to improve the overall thickness and appearance of the hair and is also used to treat Androgenic Alopecia, Telogen Effluvium (excessive hair shedding) as a stand-alone treatment as well as in conjunction with other therapies for more profound results. TED treatment requires no anesthesia, is needle-free and pain-free, and can be utilized for patients who are averse to the blood draw required for PRP. Bauman is among the first physicians outside of Alma's stealth research team to use TED for shedding and hair loss in the US at his clinic in South Florida.
The oral JAK (Janus Kinase or JAK-STAT signaling pathway) inhibitor drug Olumiant (baricitinib) was approved by the FDA for severe adult autoimmune AA Alopecia Areata. AA causes the immune system to attack the follicles, causing hair to fall out. Previously, Alopecia Areata has been treated with topical creams, corticosteroid injections, or regenerative treatments like PRP. Patients should be aware that Olumiant comes with an FDA "boxed warning" regarding severe side effects.
CNC (a medical grade 3D Printed Custom Hair and Scalp Cranial Prosthesis hair replacement system) is already one of the most advanced technologies in the hair replacement industry and is now improved with the new Digital CRLAB 3D scanner from Italy. This breakthrough technology scans the scalp in minutes and digitally transmits the scalp dimensions directly to Bologna for robotic 3D printing and creation of the handmade CNC cranial prosthetic hair system. This scan makes an exact replica of the scalp. The previous method of CNC created a mold on the patient's head with plaster. It was messy, time consuming and difficult to remove from the patient's head. In contrast, the CRLAB 3D Scanner is clean, quick and has less room for error because it captures a 3D image which accurately measures all contours of the head.
Trichotest® Genetic Hair Loss Testing uses state-of-the-art DNA microarray technology to identify the exact hair loss treatments that will perform best for the patient based on DNA analysis. Trichotest® examines DNA from saliva together with details about the patient's lifestyle and then analyzes a total of 48 genetic variations to elucidate the unique metabolic pathways influencing hair loss. Using scientifically validated global research, Trichotest® enables hair restoration experts to recommend the most ideal FDA-approved, off-label, or non-pharmaceutical options based on the patient's unique DNA using a Personalized Precision Medicine approach--achieving faster, better hair growth results, and saving patients time and money.
HairMetrix® is the first Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven non-invasive hair measurement tool for consultations, follow-ups, and clinical hair growth research. Based on a machine-learning algorithm, the HairMetrix® system provides real-time analysis of hair density, hair caliber, and other metrics without the need for any hair trimming. This contributes vital information to a Hair Restoration Physician and the patient by comparing more permanent areas of hair growth to weaker zones. HairMetrix® also allows for the precise tracking of hair growth results over time by comparing future measurements to their initial baseline so patients can know how well treatments are working and where. Dr. Bauman is one of the first physicians worldwide to use this new AI-powered hair analysis system.
Polarized Light Microscopy is a diagnostic technique to study trichological samples and pathologies using a polarized light microscope. It allows Trichologists and Hair Restoration Physicians to evaluate the quality and structure of their patient's hair to enable them to recommend targeted treatment choices for specific problems and conditions. This technique reveals information below the scalp that we could never obtain before, including the hair follicle bulb life cycle, assessment of the keratinization process, screening for alterations of the medulla, hair sheaths and cuticle, and the effects of treatments. Dr. Bauman and his team are amongst the first medical clinics in North America to utilize this valuable diagnostic tool.
After a virtual or in-person consultation, at-home treatment programs may include quality compounded prescription products such as specially formulated non-greasy highly rated Minoxidil Formula 82M, to Formula 82F Topical Finasteride+Minoxidil and Formula 82D Topical Dutasteride+Minoxidil, and the powerful FDA-cleared Bauman TURBO LaserCap Low-Level Laser Therapy device for hair regrowth. Nutra-Team Bauman includes a superior line of proprietary Nutritional Supplements: The Recruiter™ Stem Cell Support, The Good Guys™ Hair Probiotic Complex, The Bodyguard™ Botanical Mushroom Complex, The A-List™ Hair Vitamin Complex, The Hero™ Super Biotin, The Builder™ Hair Multi-Collagen Complex, and The Zenmaster™ Ashwagandha. BaumanMD™ scalp health hair care products include the Boost and Soothe In-Shower Trichology System of Shampoos and Conditioners. Boost balances powerful science with potent botanicals in this targeted blend to purify and protect scalp and follicles, while helping to reduce DHT levels. Among the key ingredients in Boost's proprietary system includes Sandalore®, a molecular compound that prolongs the anagen phase, the active phase of the hair growth cycle. Soothe reduces scalp sensitivity through the anti-inflammatory properties of Broad Spectrum CBD Oil and uses Procapil® to enhance circulation, increase blood flow and helps keep follicles nourished and healthy, making hair thicker and stronger.
If at-home treatments don't suffice, there are a plethora of in-office Regenerative Medicine treatments including PRP Platelet Rich Plasma, PDOgro™, Topical Exosome Therapy, and other cell therapy interventions.
If an assessment confirms that hair follicles are severely depleted, a transplant is needed. Today's state-of-the-art hair transplant technology includes the no-linear-scar, minimally-invasive FUE hair transplant surgery as well as the No-Shave Long-Hair VIP|FUE™, a groundbreaking minimally-invasive hair transplant procedure. VIP|FUE™ delivers all the hair restoration benefits of traditional FUE without any shaving or trimming of hair.
To learn more about the newest advancements in hair restoration, please visit www.baumanmedical.com. For media interviews, please contact danna@canpublicity.com
Dr. Alan J. Bauman is a full-time board-certified Hair Restoration Physician who has treated over 33,000 patients and performed over 12,000 hair transplant procedures and over 12,000 Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) and other Regenerative Hair Growth Treatments since starting his medical hair loss practice, Bauman Medical, in 1997 in Boca Raton, FL. Dr. Bauman is known for pioneering numerous technologies in the field of hair restoration including minimally invasive Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE), VIP|FUE, No-Shave Hair Transplant, Low-Level Laser Therapy, Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP), PDOgro, Eyelash Transplants and more.
Dr. Bauman has been named "#1 Top Hair Restoration Surgeon" in North America by Aesthetic Everything for six years running, and recently named by Forbes as one of "Ten CEOs Transforming Healthcare in America." In addition to lecturing and consulting worldwide, Dr. Bauman sees patients personally and operates in his nearly 12,000 square foot "Hair Hospital" in downtown Boca Raton, FL. His philanthropic endeavors include the 501(c)3 Grey Team and Bauman Philanthropic Foundation.
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SOURCE Bauman Medical | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/21/hair-loss-awareness-month-2022/ | 2022-07-21T20:28:38Z |
Seven dead, seven missing after blaze on Philippine passenger ferry
Story by Reuters
Seven people have died after a high-speed Philippine ferry carrying 134 people caught fire on Monday, with seven passengers still missing, the coast guard said.
The MV Mercraft 2 caught fire just before reaching the port of Real in Quezon province, about 60 kilometers (37 miles) east of the capital Manila.
It had left Polilio Island at 5 a.m. local time and made a distress call at 6:30 a.m.
Five women and two men had died, while 120 passengers had been rescued, with 23 of them treated for injuries, the coast guard said in a statement.
Pictures shared by the coast guard showed people in life vests floating at sea awaiting rescue, while some were taken to safety by a cargo ship in the area.
Fire and thick smoke engulfed the two-floor passenger vessel.
The cause of the fire was not immediately clear, but the Philippines, an archipelago of more than 7,600 islands, has a poor record for maritime safety.
Vessels are often old and overcrowded.
In 1987, around 5,000 people died in the world’s worst peacetime shipping disaster, when the overloaded passenger ferry Dona Paz collided with an oil tanker off Mindoro island south of the capital, Manila.
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved. | https://localnews8.com/news/2022/05/22/seven-dead-seven-missing-after-blaze-on-philippine-passenger-ferry/ | 2022-05-23T07:08:24Z |
HAIKOU, China, July 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2nd China International Consumer Products Expo (Hainan Expo) opened its doors on July 26 in Haikou City, the capital of southern China's Hainan Province. Drawing in over 2,800 brands representing over 60 countries, this year's Hainan Expo aims to be an expo of firsts, with many exhibitors making their first showing and a number of products debuting over the coming days. Over 100 thousand visitors have attended the expo over the past two days.
Since opening, visitors have jostled to get a look at the high-end consumer goods and one-off designs on display from both Chinese domestic and international companies. Dell launched new offerings for each of their laptop ranges. The environmentally conscious Chinese jeweler GAONAS displayed a unique piece "The Miner's Tear" which reflects the Expo themes of environmental protection and sustainable development.
France, this year's guest-of-honor country, brought close to fifty enterprises and 250 brands -ranging from skincare, beauty and fashion to fine French wines and gourmet offerings - to the Expo, making it the country with the largest number of exhibitors after China.
On opening day, L'Oreal launched Hainan tourist retail operations with two of its major brands, Prada Fragrance and Takami. Together with its partners, it also published the "Action Guide for Household Chemicals Industry to Promote Sustainable Consumption", the first guide of its kind in China. Haikou Global Boutique Duty-Free City and fashion label Karl Lagerfeld signed a strategic cooperation agreement.
A total of 74 events were held on opening day, most notably the 2nd Global Consumer Innovation and Duty-Free and Tourism Retail Conference and 25 separate events by the Global Consumer Forum. Over 20 consumer reports from various professional research and consulting firms on various industries were released. Meanwhile, the 2nd Hainan Expo Fashion Week opened and 48 product launches took place.
The China International Consumer Products Expo is China's only such exposition, and is also the largest in the Asia-Pacific region. Since the first Expo held over a year ago, Hainan has stepped up the pace in syncing its duty-free market with international standards in terms of product variety, brands and price. Hainan's offshore duty-free market saw rapid growth over 2021, with sales exceeding RMB60 billion (USD8.9 billion).
Hainan Expo has become an important window for companies outside China to learn more about the Hainan Free Trade Port, the world's largest free trade port, which has attracted an increasing number of international firms to set up operations within its borders. The last Expo saw Richemont, Taikoo and Pernod Ricard announce their plans to establish bases in Hainan. This year, France's LVMH and US business analytics heavyweight Dun & Bradstreet declared their intentions to follow suit, with LVMH due to set up a regional tourism retail supply center.
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SOURCE Hainan International Media Center (HIMC) | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/28/cicpe-asia-pacifics-biggest-consumer-products-expo-kicks-off-chinas-hainan-free-trade-port/ | 2022-07-28T14:30:42Z |
WASHINGTON, May 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Choon Choi has joined U.S. News & World Report as Sr. Vice President and General Manager of Autos, U.S. News announced today. The Autos platform comprises industry leading rankings and reviews, cars for sale, and best-in-class awards such as Best Cars for the Money and Best Vehicle Brands.
"Choon brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in the automotive industry, with a proven track record of achieving clear, measurable results quickly and maximizing the growth potential of a range of businesses," said Bill Holiber, U.S. News president and CEO. "We look forward to leveraging his skills and expertise as we support consumers in every aspect of their car-buying journey."
Choi joins U.S. News with a track record of success building high performing teams to scale growth, and forging connections between digital audiences and marketers. His most recent roles include chief strategy officer of online marketplace iSeeCars.com and chief operating officer of Hearst Autos – with brands such as Car and Driver and Road & Track. Drawing from over 15 years of experience leading and expanding direct-to-consumer and B2B businesses in the digital media space, Choi has also held leadership positions at Jumpstart Automotive Media and Hachette Filipacchi Media.
"We're pleased to welcome Choon to U.S. News where he will be a major asset leading the Autos team," said Chief Product Officer Chad Smolinski. "Choon's hiring underscores our commitment to provide our users with the innovative digital tools they need to make informed decisions about their car-purchasing decisions."
"U.S. News is one of the most well-respected brands in the media landscape with a track record of helping consumers make important decisions in their lives," said Choi. "I'm thrilled to join the team to help guide the consumer journey for in-market car shoppers and enthusiasts as we enter a phase of high growth."
For over 15 years, the industry-leading U.S. News Best Cars rankings have guided consumers looking for the best vehicle. U.S. News has expanded on its advice and analysis over the last decade with data-driven rankings, ratings and news for Vehicle Brands, Families and Teens. U.S. News also offers high-level performance assessment and peer benchmarking tools for vehicles, and presents the Best Cars for the Money awards at the annual Washington, D.C. Auto Show each winter.
For more information regarding U.S. News' Auto offerings, please visit cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks.
About U.S. News Best Cars
Since 2007, U.S. News Best Cars, the automotive channel of U.S. News & World Report, has published rankings of the majority of new vehicles sold in America. Each year, U.S. News also publishes the Best Cars awards, including Best Vehicle Brands, Best Cars for the Money and Best Cars for Families. U.S. News Best Cars supports car shoppers throughout the entire car buying journey, offering advice for researching cars and finding cars for sale near you. U.S. News Best Cars had more than 81 million visitors over the past year, with the majority actively shopping for a car. More than 70% of active shoppers reported that U.S. News influenced their car-purchasing decision, saying that they trust U.S. News' advice to be unbiased and that they would recommend its site to others.
About U.S. News & World Report
U.S. News & World Report is the global leader in quality rankings that empower consumers, business leaders and policy officials to make better, more informed decisions about important issues affecting their lives. A multifaceted digital media company with Education, Health, Money, Travel, Cars, News and 360 Reviews platforms, U.S. News provides rankings, independent reporting, data journalism, consumer advice and U.S. News Live events. More than 40 million people visit USNews.com each month for research and guidance. Founded in 1933, U.S. News is headquartered in Washington, D.C.
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SOURCE U.S. News & World Report, L.P. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/05/03/us-news-names-choon-choi-sr-vice-president-general-manager-autos/ | 2022-05-03T07:32:27Z |
DEKALB, Ill. (AP) — Meta, the parent company of Facebook, is expanding a data center in northern Illinois and says more than 200 operational jobs will be based there once complete.
The company announced the expansion Wednesday.
The company announced its initial plan for the DeKalb data center in June 2020, proposing an $800 million project in northern Illinois that would require about 100 operational employees once complete.
The expansion brings the total project cost to more than $1 billion, Meta said in a statement.
“We are thrilled to be expanding our presence in Illinois,” said Darcy Nothnagle, director of community and economic development for Meta. “The city of DeKalb and the state of Illinois have been great partners from the beginning, and we look forward to a continued strong and fruitful partnership for years to come.”
Paul Borek, executive director of the DeKalb County Economic Development Corporation, said more than 1,200 construction workers have been at work on the site — “a boon to Illinois.”
DeKalb officials and the company also touted Meta’s grant program available to schools or nonprofits where it runs data centers, which will launch in DeKalb County this fall.
The county’s school district Superintendent Minerva Garcia-Sanchez said it will create opportunities for local students.
“We look forward to the future as we transform from being known as an agricultural community to one of the leading technological centers in the nation and we look forward to our future endeavors,” Garcia-Sanchez said. | https://cw33.com/business/ap-business/facebook-parent-meta-expands-illinois-data-center-in-dekalb/ | 2022-04-28T18:59:02Z |
Healthy ways to beat summer boredom with kids
(CNN) - The weather is red hot and some kids may be singing the summer boredom blues, but keeping them engaged is key.
“Being active just helps you feel better. It helps you have more energy,” a pediatrician at Cleveland Clinic, Dr. Gina Robinson said.
If you have exhausted your entertainment ideas, you are not alone.
Robinson says it is important to get outdoors during times when the temperatures are not as high.
”It’s also important to have fun, to just run around and play, to have unstructured free time in the yard, on your bike, at the park,” she said.
While it may help keep kids busy, limiting screen time is important.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no screen time for those under 18 to 24 months, other than video chatting. Children aged 2 to 5 should have no more than one hour of screen time each day, and that should be limited to high-quality programming only.
”It’s fun to play video games, but we don’t want that to be the only thing you do. Sometimes those games are a little bit addictive and it’s hard to stop once you start,” Robinson said.
Staving off boredom does not have to break the bank.
There are fun things to do in your community and looking at county websites or social media pages is a good place to look.
Reading is another good idea.
Robinson suggests letting your kids pick what they want to read in the summer.
“You could walk to the library, if it’s possible. Get some books and then walk back home, so you’ve gotten your exercise in. You’ve gotten away from the screen and you’re getting some reading done,” she said.
Robinson says it is also important for parents to model the behavior they want their children to have. She says that encourages them without having to say anything.
Copyright 2022 CNN Newsource. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/07/07/healthy-ways-beat-summer-boredom-with-kids/ | 2022-07-07T16:09:58Z |
DALLAS (KDAF) — Cheese. Ball. Cheese ball. You’ve arrived to Easter Sunday and accompanying it is National Cheese Ball Day, who would’ve thought?
Maybe this Easter you decide to get a little funky and dig into some local cheese balls around Dallas or get adventurous to make your own. What is a cheese ball? Well, according to NationalToday., “Basic ingredients often include cheddar cheese, cream cheese, green onion, and spices — sometimes coated with chopped pecans. You can go vegetarian as well.”
These options may not be as traditional but as long as the cheese is in a ball, who’s asking questions? If you’re wanting to go out and grab some around Dallas we checked out Yelp’s list of the best around town:
- Let’s All Have a Ball
- Korean Street Eats
- Dallas Grilled Cheese Co, located in Bishop Arts District
- Lekka, located in North Dallas
- Streets Fine Chicken, located in Oak Lawn
- Bucky Moonshine’s, located in Deep Ellum
- Crab King, located in Farmer’s Branch
- Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House
- The Cheesecake Factory
- The Empanada Cookhouse, located in Downtown | https://cw33.com/news/local/where-to-get-the-best-cheese-balls-in-dallas-as-sunday-is-national-cheese-ball-day/ | 2022-04-17T15:07:09Z |
Winning souls for Christ. Taking back America for God. Standing in the Gap.
Anyone who has spent time among white evangelical Christians has heard some of those phrases. The evangelical subculture is filled with militaristic rhetoric that depicts conservative Christians trying to "take back America" for God from the secular forces of evil.
But what happens when one of the nation's most famous evangelical leaders declares that "saving America is not the mission of the church?" When he says that loving people takes precedence over loving country? Or when he says that Christianity is not about winning, but "losing on purpose, with a purpose?"
Andy Stanley, pastor of one of the nation's largest megachurches, is about to find out. This is part of the message he shares in his provocative new book, "Not In It To Win It: Why Choosing Sides Sidelines the Church." In the book, Stanley recounts what happened to him and his church when they confronted three recent challenges: the pandemic, the George Floyd protests and the 2020 presidential election.
Stanley, who describes himself as "right-leaning politically," says some members left his church when he canceled in-person services during the height of the pandemic. Others accused him of embracing a "woke, left-wing Marxist agenda" when he talked about confronting racism One pastor told him on Twitter, "Sir, with all due respect, you're a false prophet from Satan's hell."
This is nothing new for Stanley -- with prominence comes criticism. He is one of the most influential evangelical leaders in the US. Stanley is pastor of North Point Community Church in suburban Atlanta, a nondenominational evangelical congregation that draws more than 38,000 people to its Sunday services at eight locations in Georgia. He reaches an even larger audience with his books on leadership, YouTube sermons and podcasts, such as a recent venture with Adam Grant, the best-selling author and organizational psychologist.
In his book, Stanley says he's "embarrassed" by how some evangelical leaders have acted during the pandemic and in the aftermath of the the 2020 election. He claims they allowed the church to be divided over vaccines and the wearing of masks during Sunday services, twisted scripture to support political talking points and engaged in the "indiscriminate demonization" of entire groups.
"The moment our love for or concern for country takes precedence over our love for people in our country we are off mission," Stanley writes. "When saving America diverts energy, focus and reputation away from saving Americans, we no longer qualify as the ekklesia [church]. We're merely political tools. A manipulated voting demographic. A photo op... We give up the moral and ethical high ground."
Stanley recently talked to CNN from his church in Alpharetta, Georgia. The following interview was edited for brevity and clarity.
Why did you write this book?
I was so frustrated as I watched, primarily evangelical leaders, politicize their church. They limited their ability to reach people because they alienated half the people in America by politicizing their church. And by politicizing, I mean they came out as saying we're Christians, and we're Republicans, and we're Republicans because we're Christians. On the other side, I've been in churches, where they say, we're Democrats, and so the reason we're Democrats is because we're Christians.
This is just crazy. That's evidence of a person who has draped their political views and their political party with scripture and with Jesus. And as a Christian, it should be the other way around.
You also spoke out against racism during the George Floyd protests. Were people angry at that?
There are people who said I'm slowly trying to lead the church to be more woke. Two or three people said, Andy, in that sermon, you called me a racist. No, I just said there's probably a little racism in all of us, including myself. We should examine our hearts and in the cultural moments like what happened with George Floyd. I think you pause and say, 'How does that make me feel?' If there wasn't something heartbreaking about that, regardless of what you think, politically or pro-police or anti-police, you got some work to do.
An independent investigation recently found that Southern Baptist leaders mishandled allegations of sexual abuse in their churches and fought attempted reforms. You grew up in that world. Did the findings surprise you?
There's no place for mistreating people, period, especially as Christians. What was and is challenging for the Southern Baptist Convention is that these are all autonomous churches. There's no excuse for that behavior. But there is an explanation as to why it was almost impossible to manage this from a denominational standpoint if the local church wasn't going to manage it at the local church level. It had to be addressed immediately and called out at the local church level. These things have to be handled immediately. It's better to overreact than to under react.
Is some of what happened at the Southern Baptist Convention due in part to the attitude of winning at all costs that you talk about in your book?
If I have to win in the sense that I have to protect my name at all costs, my reputation at all costs, my career at all costs, my income at all costs, my influence at all costs, then I will be tempted to lie and to cover up. That's in me, like it's in every person, every leader, because you spend years building reputation and momentum, and the more successful you are, and the more well-known you are, the more you have to lose. And so the more tempted you are to downplay things, to cover things up.
When you hear about something like the Southern Baptists report, do you get concerned about what the evangelical church will look like in, say, 10 years if current trends continue?
No, I don't worry about it. And I don't worry about it because of the way the church started. The deck wasn't just stacked against them. There wasn't even a deck. It's Jesus and a group of teenagers and 20-year-olds, and he says, I'm going to start something new. And it won't end with my death. This is for the world. And it's forever. It's until the end of this age.
One of the best books I've read recently is called "Bullies and Saints." The author takes in all the embarrassing parts of Christianity through the years, and he says all these things are true. All these things are embarrassing, he said, But Christianity has a built-in self-correction ethic. When things go awry, reformers come along and correct it.
Do you think the White evangelical world can self-correct in this country?
Yes, most white evangelicals are not extreme. You sell things in the extremes. You raise money in the extremes. You get elected in the extremes, but most people you can't live in the extremes unless you have one of those jobs where the only way you're going get paid is by ginning up fear.
Most people in the middle are like, 'Hey, I just need to get my kid to school and get them home safely. And I just need to keep my job and pay the bills.' Most white evangelicals are not how how they are presented in culture. And neither are people on the other side.
Most people may not live in the extremes, but the church is split over some deep issues. If you're on the right and you believe abortion is murder, you might say I can't go to a church that doesn't believe that. I can't be friends with a Christian who believes that. That's non-negotiable. Someone on the left might say I can't go to church with someone who supports Trump because he's a racist. What would you say to them?
When it comes to a specific issue, I completely understand. There are certain hot-button issues where I totally get that. I would be the same way. But there aren't as many of those as people make them out to be.
But let's take that as an example. Can I choose not to be a part of a church like that and yet still approach that person and talk about that person in a way that reflects the tone and posture of Jesus? The answer is yes. Because when Jesus saw the traitor of all traitors up in a tree when he was passing by (the story of Zacchaeus, a tax collector, an occupation detested by many of Jesus' contemporaries), he didn't look at Zacchaeus and the tax code and talk about what a thief you are. He said I'm going to go to your house.
You said in the book that when churches take a political side, they're already alienating half of the country. Are there political issues where a pastor shouldn't be neutral even at the risk of being identified with a political party? The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. worked with the Democratic Party and a Democratic president to get the 1965 Voting Rights Act passed. Was he being too political? Was he wrong to align with the Democratic Party?
When a cultural issue intersects with the teachings of Jesus, we definitely should say something. The problem is when we do that -- which we should -- we do that knowing that ... if I take a more left-leaning position on gun control -- which I wouldn't, because in my mind that's a very complicated issue -- but if I did, then I realize that the Republicans in my church are going to put me in the bucket of everything that the Democrats believe, because there's no middle ground now. There's no nuance. It's tricky.
As a pastor I'm responsible for preaching the whole counsel of God. But talking about an issue is different than aligning with a party or aligning with a candidate. Even to say: 'This is what Jesus teaches on this particular issue, this is what we should do, and that's why I'm voting for...' Nope. We should just stick with those specific issues without wholesale buying into a political party.
When I hear you talking about pastors being neutral on political issues, I think of history. There were a lot of White Southern Baptist pastors in the South who said they wanted to be neutral when civil rights leaders started holding protests in the 1950s. They didn't speak out about Jim Crow segregation because they didn't want to seem political, but it was really moral cowardice.
I understand that pressure. I'm not going to be arrogant enough to say If I'd been one of them, I tell you what I would have done -- because I don't know, and nobody does. But they were wrong. And many of them looked back later and were ashamed, as they should be. I would like to be better than that, but I don't know.
You get criticized from the left and the right. Do you ever worry that as the country becomes more divided, you'll become more isolated, that people on the left are going to think you're too conservative and people on the right are going to think you're too liberal? And you end up nowhere?
I actually think I'm right where I'm supposed to be.
Isolated?
Not isolated. I don't think I'll ever be isolated. I might be. But then I look at the life and impact of the teachings of Jesus had on Western civilization, I know it's the right approach, but it's the long game. I'm a hypocrite if I do otherwise. That's not to say there's not hypocrisy in me or I'll flinch or lose my nerve in certain moments. I'm not above that. But I don't fear that.
Maybe it's confidence or arrogance, but I'm so convinced that if I'm not right, I'm closer to right than what I see on the far right or what I see on the far left.
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved. | https://www.albanyherald.com/news/the-evangelical-church-faces-a-state-of-emergency-over-the-pandemic-and-politics-andy-stanley/article_44bdf40d-b23d-5dd6-885b-dbf646080023.html | 2022-06-04T13:47:10Z |
Launches NFT Collection Designed by Renowned Brazilian Visual Artist Rubem Robierb
Each NFT Includes an Invitation for Two to Exclusive Naming Ceremony for New Ship, Celebrity Beyond, this November in Fort Lauderdale
MIAMI, May 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Celebrity Cruises®, known for next generation ships at the intersection of architecture and design, is riding the wave of the future of art with its first foray into non-fungible tokens (NFT).
In partnership with acclaimed artist Rubem Robierb, a longstanding featured artist with the cruise line, Celebrity has launched the Peacemakers Sunset NFT collection, complementing Robierb's powerful Peacemakers sculpture featured on its brand new ship, Celebrity Beyond. Each NFT includes two money-can't-buy invitations to the ship's exclusive naming ceremony and sailing in Fort Lauderdale, November 4–6.
The new NFT collection consists of an edition of five motion art pieces, one of which is currently on display at the Cube Art Fair in Times Square from May 18 - 22. On June 1, the NFTs will then become available for purchase via the OpenSea platform. Proceeds from the sales will go to the artist.
Additionally, a variation of these NFTs titled "Peacemakers, Blue Sky" can be found on board Celebrity Beyond, making it the very first NFT at Sea.
"Innovation is a pillar of the Celebrity Cruises experience and a distinguishing characteristic of our ships, so it's only fitting to bring this heritage into the new digital revolution of NFTs and the metaverse," said Celebrity Cruises Chief Marketing Officer Michael Scheiner. "The scale and scope of what's possible in this space, and the way we can connect our guests with new immersive and accessible experiences, is really endless. It's exciting to take this first step with the talents and artistry of Rubem."
"Peacemakers represents two interlaced doves, a tribute to the peacemakers of the world, and the NFTs bring to life the idea that peace is a collaborative act that can never be taken for granted," said Rubem Robierb. "Yin and Yang, masculine and feminine, me and you. If we want to end all battles and conflicts, there is only one solution, and that solution is peace. It has been an honor to continue my collaboration with Celebrity Cruises, and to push the boundaries of our artistic work together to new frontiers, from the metaverse to displaying the first NFT at sea."
Once the NFTs go on sale, they can be resold and exchanged an unlimited number of times. At 5p.m. ET on July 1, each owner of a Peacemakers Sunset NFT will be deemed the recipient of the invitations to join the ship's naming ceremony, including domestic roundtrip airfare for two, to the Celebrity Beyond naming ceremony and sailing, November 4-6, 2022.
Originally from Brazil, Rubem Robierb lives and works in NYC and Miami. Rubem's art has been recognized worldwide as timely and influential, and has been displayed at exhibits and acclaimed art festivals across the globe. In addition to Robierb's "Peacemakers" design on board Celebrity Beyond, Celebrity Cruises also features his thought-provoking "Dream Machine" on Celebrity Edge, exploring the desire for a fair and just society; and "Empower Flower" on Celebrity Apex, celebrating women's rights and empowerment.
Onboard Celebrity Beyond, fans of Robierb's art will also enjoy the incorporation of Peacemakers into the live production show Arte, the first-time a work of art displayed onboard a Celebrity cruise ship bas been integrated into a theater-show experience; and the ability to purchase from a limited-edition Peacemakers jewelry collection, a collaboration between Robierb and Effy jewelry, featuring necklaces in a variety of precious metals and gems.
Celebrity Beyond showcases the design talents of multi-award-winning British designer Kelly Hoppen CBE; celebrated American designer Nate Berkus; and lauded Paris-based design firm Jouin Manku; the innovation of British architect Tom Wright; and the culinary gifts of renowned chef and restaurateur Daniel Boulud, Celebrity's Global Culinary Ambassador. The ship also features experiences and products from modern lifestyle and wellness brand, goop. The exquisite ship offers a journey filled with what's important to today's discerning traveler: forward-thinking design, culinary excellence, unparalleled well-being and incomparable service.
Celebrity Beyond began her inaugural season on April 27, 2022 with a 10-night sailing from Southampton, England, to Barcelona, Spain, and will now spend the summer sailing nine-to-10-night itineraries in the Mediterranean. In November, Celebrity Beyond will make her way to Fort Lauderdale for the official naming ceremony and a winter season of five-to-nine-night Caribbean sailings.
For more details on Celebrity Beyond offerings and destinations, visit www.celebritycruises.com/cruise-ships/celebrity-beyond. For more information on all Celebrity Cruises offerings, call 1-800-437-3111, visit www.celebritycruises.com or speak with a travel advisor.
ABOUT CELEBRITY CRUISES
Celebrity Cruises' iconic "X" is the mark of a fleet of 15 award-winning ships redefining luxury cruise travel with cool, contemporary design and accommodation; dining, spa and entertainment experiences for modern tastes; and culturally rich and diverse destination experiences, all complemented by warm, personalized service. Celebrity has pioneered many industry firsts at sea, including: the first use of solar panels on a cruise ship; the first to eliminate use of plastic water bottles; the first American female Captain of a cruise ship; the first-ever all-female bridge and officer team sailing; the first West African woman to work on the bridge of a cruise ship; and one of the first legal same-sex weddings performed at sea. Driven by wanderlust and a passion for opening the world, Celebrity journeys to all seven continents, visiting nearly 300 destinations in more than 70 countries. Celebrity Cruises is one of five cruise brands owned by global cruise company Royal Caribbean Group. (NYSE: RCL).
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SOURCE Celebrity Cruises | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/05/18/celebrity-cruises-sails-into-digital-frontier-with-its-first-ever-nft/ | 2022-05-18T15:38:26Z |
HUNT VALLEY, Md., Sept. 7, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- McCormick & Company, Incorporated (NYSE:MKC), a global leader in flavor, today announced preliminary financial results for the third quarter ended August 31, 2022 and updated its financial outlook for fiscal year 2022.
Preliminary Third Quarter 2022 Results
- Sales are expected to increase by approximately 3% in the third quarter from the year-ago period. In constant currency, sales are expected to increase by approximately 6% driven by growth in both the Consumer and Flavor Solutions segments. Both comparisons include an estimated 1% unfavorable impact from the divestiture of the Company's Kitchen Basics business.
- Operating income is expected to be approximately $223 million in the third quarter compared to $265 million in the year-ago period. Adjusted operating income is expected to be approximately $226 million compared to $272 million in the third quarter of 2021.
- Earnings per share is expected to be approximately $0.79 in the third quarter, comparable to the year-ago period. Adjusted earnings per share is expected to be approximately $0.65 as compared to $0.80 in the year-ago period.
- For fiscal year 2022, McCormick updated its sales, operating income, and earnings per share outlook.
Chairman and CEO's Remarks
Lawrence E. Kurzius, Chairman and CEO, stated, "Our third quarter sales were a record and while strong fell short of our own expectations. Our results were led by the continued growth momentum of our Flavor Solutions segment. We divested our Kitchen Basics business during the quarter which impacted our Consumer segment growth. Growth in the Consumer segment was also tempered by the moderation of elevated consumption trends that we anticipated in the second half of the year, which occurred earlier than expected. Broad pressure on consumers' cost of living from inflation has resulted in higher price elasticity than expected, although still below historical levels. We are increasing our brand marketing investments in our updated outlook and are focusing its messaging on value, which we are confident, combined with our innovation behind price pack architecture and category management initiatives, will continue to drive growth. Cooking at home remains higher than pre-pandemic levels, reinforcing our expectation that the shift in consumer demand to at-home-consumption will be sustained.
"During the third quarter, supply chain challenges continued, and supply recovery of certain constrained materials has taken longer than expected. We also continued to incur elevated costs to meet high demand in some parts of our business, while in other parts of our business, where demand has moderated, we are experiencing lower operating leverage. Across the supply chain, managing inventory levels and eliminating inefficiencies have been a focus. Overall, the normalization of our supply chain costs is taking longer than expected, pressuring gross margin. Over the coming months, we will be aggressively driving the elimination of supply chain inefficiencies.
"We remain confident that we are well positioned for the long term and will successfully navigate this dynamic global environment with our strong global portfolio and proven track record of execution."
Preliminary Third Quarter 2022 Results
Third quarter sales are expected to increase approximately 3% from the year-ago period, including an expected approximate 3% unfavorable impact from currency. Sales growth is expected to be driven by pricing actions the Company has realized, partially offset by a decline in volume and product mix, including the impact of the Kitchen Basics divestiture.
Third quarter sales are expected to grow at a constant currency three-year compounded annual growth rate of approximately 7% for the total Company off of a pre-pandemic baseline of 2019 showing the sustained momentum in the business across both the Consumer and Flavor Solutions segments.
Operating income is expected to be approximately $223 million in the third quarter of 2022 compared to $265 million in the third quarter of 2021. Excluding special charges, as well as transaction and integration expenses, adjusted operating income is expected to be approximately $226 million compared to $272 million in the year-ago period. This decline is a result of gross margin compression, primarily in our Flavor Solutions segment, with higher brand marketing investments also contributing.
Earnings per share is expected to be approximately $0.79 in the third quarter of 2022, which is comparable to the third quarter of 2021. The net favorable impact of the gain on the sale of the Kitchen Basics business, special charges and transaction and integration expenses is expected to increase earnings per share by approximately $0.14 in the third quarter of 2022. Special charges and transaction and integration expenses lowered earnings per share by approximately $0.01 in the third quarter of 2021. Excluding these impacts, adjusted earnings per share is expected to be approximately $0.65 in the third quarter of 2022 compared to $0.80 in the year-ago period. This expected decrease is projected to primarily be driven by lower adjusted operating income.
The Company has not yet completed its quarterly financial close process for the third fiscal quarter of 2022. This update does not present all necessary information for an understanding of McCormick's financial condition as of the date of this release, or its results of operations for the third quarter. As McCormick completes its quarterly financial close process and finalizes its financial statements for the quarter, it will be required to make significant judgments in a number of areas. It is possible that the Company may identify items that require adjustments to the preliminary financial information set forth above and those changes could be material. The Company intends to provide its full financial results for the third quarter on October 6, 2022. Until that time, the preliminary results described in this press release are estimates and remain subject to change based on management's ongoing review of results of the quarter and completion of its quarterly financial close process.
Fiscal Year 2022 Financial Outlook
For fiscal year 2022, McCormick updated its financial outlook to reflect its preliminary third quarter results, moderation of consumption trends earlier than expected, slower supply chain cost normalization, the divestiture of the Kitchen Basics business, and a more unfavorable impact of foreign currency rates.
The Company expects foreign currency rates in 2022 to unfavorably impact net sales by 3%, as compared to 2% in its previous financial outlook, and continues to expect adjusted operating income and adjusted earnings per share to be impacted unfavorably by 2%.
The Company expects 2022 sales to range from comparable to 2021 to an increase of 2%, which in constant currency is sales growth of 3% to 5%. These comparisons include an unfavorable impact from the divestiture of the Company's Kitchen Basics business. The Company previously expected to grow sales 3% to 5%, or 5% to 7% in constant currency.
McCormick is projecting 2022 gross profit margin to be 330 to 280 basis points lower than 2021. In 2021, $11 million of special charges and transaction and integration expenses lowered the Company's gross margin. Excluding this impact, the Company is projecting 2022 gross profit margin to be 350 to 300 basis points lower than 2021, primarily driven by the Company's Flavor Solutions segment. This projection includes the Company's reaffirmation of its previous expectation of an increase in cost inflation in the high teens.
Operating income in 2022 is expected to decline 10% to 8% from $1.02 billion in 2021. The Company expects approximately $46 million of special charges in 2022 that relate to previously approved organization and streamlining actions as well as integration expenses related to the FONA acquisition of approximately $2 million in 2022. Excluding the impact of special charges and transaction and integration expenses in 2022 and 2021, the Company projects adjusted operating income to decline 13% to 11%, which in constant currency is 11% to 9%. The revised guidance is driven by the updated sales and adjusted gross margin outlooks as well as a higher level of brand marketing investments, which is now projected to be a low single digit increase compared to 2021. The Company's projection also includes reaffirmation of its previous expectation of approximately $85 million of cost savings led by the Company's Comprehensive Continuous Improvement (CCI) program. The Company previously expected adjusted operating income to range from comparable to an increase of 2%, or 2% to 4% in constant currency.
McCormick projects earnings per share to be in the range of $2.64 to $2.69, compared to $2.80 in 2021. The Company expects the net favorable impact of the gain on the sale of the Kitchen Basics business, special charges and transaction and integration expenses to increase earnings per share by approximately $0.01 in 2022. Excluding these impacts, the Company projects 2022 adjusted earnings per share to be in the range of $2.63 to $2.68, as compared to previously reported guidance of $3.03 to $3.08 and adjusted earnings per share of $3.05 in 2021. The revised guidance is driven by the updated adjusted operating income outlook and includes an approximate $0.02 unfavorable impact from the divestiture of the Kitchen Basics business.
McCormick will report its full third quarter 2022 financial results and conduct a related conference call and webcast on Thursday, October 6, 2022, at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
The tables below include financial measures of adjusted operating income, adjusted operating income margin, and adjusted diluted earnings per share. These represent non-GAAP financial measures which are prepared as a complement to our financial results prepared in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles. These financial measures exclude the impact, as applicable, of the following:
Special charges – In our consolidated income statement, we include a separate line item captioned "Special charges" in arriving at our consolidated operating income. Special charges consist of expenses associated with certain actions undertaken by the Company to reduce fixed costs, simplify or improve processes, and improve our competitiveness and are of such significance in terms of both up-front costs and organizational/structural impact to require advance approval by our Management Committee. Upon presentation of any such proposed action (including details with respect to estimated costs, which generally consist principally of employee severance and related benefits, together with ancillary costs associated with the action that may include a non-cash component or a component which relates to inventory adjustments that are included in cost of goods sold; impacted employees or operations; expected timing; and expected savings) to the Management Committee and the Committee's advance approval, expenses associated with the approved action are classified as special charges upon recognition and monitored on an ongoing basis through completion.
Transaction and integration expenses associated with the Cholula and FONA acquisitions – We exclude certain costs associated with our acquisitions of Cholula and FONA in November and December 2020, respectively, and their subsequent integration into the Company. Such costs, which we refer to as "Transaction and integration expenses", include transaction costs associated with each acquisition, as well as integration costs following the respective acquisition, including the impact of the acquisition date fair value adjustment for inventories, together with the impact of discrete tax items, if any, directly related to each acquisition.
Income from sale of unconsolidated operations – We exclude the gain realized upon our sale of an unconsolidated operation that occurred during the second quarter of fiscal 2021. The sale of our 26% interest in Eastern Condiments Private Ltd resulted in a gain of $13.4 million, net of tax of $5.7 million. The gain is included in Income from unconsolidated operations in our consolidated income statement for the year ended November 30, 2021.
Gain on sale of Kitchen Basics - We exclude the expected gain realized upon our sale of the Kitchen Basics business in August 2022. For the three months ended August 31, 2022, we expect a gain, after tax, associated with the sale of approximately $40 million.
We believe that these non-GAAP financial measures are important. The exclusion of the items noted above provides additional information that enables enhanced comparisons to prior periods and, accordingly, facilitates the development of future projections and earnings growth prospects. This information is also used by management to measure the profitability of our ongoing operations and analyze our business performance and trends.
These non-GAAP financial measures may be considered in addition to results prepared in accordance with GAAP, but they should not be considered a substitute for, or superior to, GAAP results. In addition, these non-GAAP financial measures may not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies because other companies may not calculate them in the same manner that we do. We intend to continue to provide these non-GAAP financial measures as part of our future earnings discussions and, therefore, the inclusion of these non-GAAP financial measures will provide consistency in our financial reporting. A reconciliation of these non-GAAP financial measures to the related GAAP financial measures is provided below (expected amounts for the three months ended August 31, 2022):
Because we are a multi-national company, we are subject to variability of our reported U.S. dollar results due to changes in foreign currency exchange rates. Those changes have been volatile over the past several years. The exclusion of the effects of foreign currency exchange, or what we refer to as amounts expressed "on a constant currency basis", is a non-GAAP measure. We believe that this non-GAAP measure provides additional information that enables enhanced comparison to prior periods excluding the translation effects of changes in rates of foreign currency exchange and provides additional insight into the underlying performance of our operations located outside of the U.S. It should be noted that our presentation herein of amounts and percentage changes on a constant currency basis does not exclude the impact of foreign currency transaction gains and losses (that is, the impact of transactions denominated in other than the local currency of any of our subsidiaries in their local currency reported results).
Percentage changes in sales expressed on a constant currency basis are presented excluding the impact of foreign currency exchange. To present this information for historical periods, current period results for entities reporting in currencies other than the U.S. dollar are translated into U.S. dollars at the average exchange rates in effect during the corresponding period of the comparative year, rather than at the actual average exchange rates in effect during the current fiscal year. As a result, the foreign currency impact is equal to the expected current year results in local currencies multiplied by the change in the average foreign currency exchange rate between the current fiscal period and the corresponding period of the comparative year. The following provides our expected increase in sales for the third quarter of 2022.
To present "constant currency" information for the fiscal year 2022 projection, projected sales and adjusted operating income for entities reporting in currencies other than the U.S. dollar are translated into U.S. dollars at the company's budgeted exchange rates for 2022 and are compared to the 2021 results, translated into U.S. dollars using the same 2022 budgeted exchange rates, rather than at the average actual exchange rates in effect during fiscal year 2021.
The following provides a reconciliation of our estimated earnings per share to adjusted earnings per share for 2022 and actual results for 2021:
Live Webcast
As previously announced, McCormick will be participating in the Barclays Global Consumer Staples Conference on September 8, 2022, at 11:15 a.m. Eastern Time. Representing McCormick will be Lawrence Kurzius, Chairman & CEO; Brendan Foley, President & COO; and Mike Smith, Executive Vice President & CFO. A live audio webcast of the session will be available on the McCormick website ir.mccormick.com. If you are unable to listen to the live webcast, the event will be archived on ir.mccormick.com.
As a reminder, McCormick is scheduled to conduct a conference call and webcast of its third quarter 2022 financial results on October 6, 2022, at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time. Lawrence Kurzius, Chairman & CEO; Mike Smith, Executive Vice President & CFO; Brendan Foley, President & COO; and Kasey Jenkins, Chief Strategy Officer & Senior Vice President, Investor Relations will be hosting the call.
Forward-Looking Information
Certain information contained in this release, including statements concerning expected performance, such as those relating to net sales, operating income, gross margin, earnings, cost savings, transaction and integration expenses, special charges, acquisitions, brand marketing support, volume and product mix, income tax expense and the impact of foreign currency rates are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements may be identified by the use of words such as "may," "will," "expect," "should," "anticipate," "intend," "believe" and "plan." These statements may relate to: the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business, suppliers, consumers, customers, and employees; disruptions or inefficiencies in the supply chain; the expected results of operations of businesses acquired by the company, including the acquisitions of Cholula and FONA; the expected impact of the inflationary cost environment, including commodity, packaging materials and transportation costs on our business; the expected impact of pricing actions on the company's results of operations and gross margins; the expected impact of factors affecting our supply chain, including transportation capacity, labor shortages, and absenteeism; the expected impact of productivity improvements, including those associated with our Comprehensive Continuous Improvement (CCI) program and global enablement initiative; the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, including the potential for broader economic disruption; expected working capital improvements; expectations regarding growth potential in various geographies and markets, including the impact from customer, channel, category, and e-commerce expansion; expected trends in net sales and earnings performance and other financial measures; the expected timing and costs of implementing our business transformation initiative, which includes the implementation of a global enterprise resource planning (ERP) system; the expected impact of accounting pronouncements; the expectations of pension and postretirement plan contributions and anticipated charges associated with those plans; the holding period and market risks associated with financial instruments; the impact of foreign exchange fluctuations; the adequacy of internally generated funds and existing sources of liquidity, such as the availability of bank financing; the anticipated sufficiency of future cash flows to enable the payments of interest and repayment of short- and long-term debt as well as quarterly dividends and the ability to issue additional debt securities; and expectations regarding purchasing shares of McCormick's common stock under the existing repurchase authorization.
These and other forward-looking statements are based on management's current views and assumptions and involve risks and uncertainties that could significantly affect expected results. Results may be materially affected by factors such as: the company's ability to drive revenue growth; the company's ability to increase pricing to offset, or partially offset, inflationary pressures on the cost of our products; damage to the company's reputation or brand name; loss of brand relevance; increased private label use; product quality, labeling, or safety concerns; negative publicity about our products; actions by, and the financial condition of, competitors and customers; the longevity of mutually beneficial relationships with our large customers; the ability to identify, interpret and react to changes in consumer preference and demand; business interruptions due to natural disasters, unexpected events or public health crises, including COVID-19; issues affecting the company's supply chain and procurement of raw materials, including fluctuations in the cost and availability of raw and packaging materials; labor shortage, turnover and labor cost increases; the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, including the potential for broader economic disruption; government regulation, and changes in legal and regulatory requirements and enforcement practices; the lack of successful acquisition and integration of new businesses; global economic and financial conditions generally, availability of financing, interest and inflation rates, and the imposition of tariffs, quotas, trade barriers and other similar restrictions; foreign currency fluctuations; the effects of increased level of debt service following the Cholula and FONA acquisitions as well as the effects that such increased debt service may have on the company's ability to borrow or the cost of any such additional borrowing, our credit rating, and our ability to react to certain economic and industry conditions; risks associated with the phase-out of LIBOR; impairments of indefinite-lived intangible assets; assumptions we have made regarding the investment return on retirement plan assets, and the costs associated with pension obligations; the stability of credit and capital markets; risks associated with the company's information technology systems, including the threat of data breaches and cyber-attacks; the company's inability to successfully implement our business transformation initiative; fundamental changes in tax laws; including interpretations and assumptions we have made, and guidance that may be issued, and volatility in our effective tax rate; climate change; Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) matters; infringement of intellectual property rights, and those of customers; litigation, legal and administrative proceedings; the company's inability to achieve expected and/or needed cost savings or margin improvements; negative employee relations; and other risks described in the company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Actual results could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. The company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by law.
About McCormick
McCormick & Company, Incorporated is a global leader in flavor. With over $6 billion in annual sales across 170 countries and territories, we manufacture, market and distribute spices, seasoning mixes, condiments and other flavorful products to the entire food industry including e-commerce channels, grocery, food manufacturers and foodservice businesses. Our most popular brands with trademark registrations include McCormick, French's, Frank's RedHot, Stubb's, OLD BAY, Lawry's, Zatarain's, Ducros, Vahiné, Cholula, Schwartz, Kamis, DaQiao, Club House, Aeroplane and Gourmet Garden. Every day, no matter where or what you eat or drink, you can enjoy food flavored by McCormick.
Founded in 1889 and headquartered in Hunt Valley, Maryland USA, McCormick is guided by our principles and committed to our Purpose – To Stand Together for the Future of Flavor. McCormick envisions A World United by Flavor where healthy, sustainable and delicious go hand in hand. To learn more, visit www.mccormickcorporation.com or follow McCormick & Company on Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.
For information contact:
Investor Relations:
Kasey Jenkins - kasey_jenkins@mccormick.com
Corporate Communications:
Lori Robinson - lori_robinson@mccormick.com
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SOURCE McCormick & Company, Incorporated | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/09/07/mccormick-reports-preliminary-third-quarter-performance-updates-2022-outlook/ | 2022-09-07T22:48:01Z |
GM’s $2.94B 1Q profit tops Street views, but revenue misses
By ALEX VEIGA
AP Business Writer
LOS ANGELES (AP) — General Motors’ net income declined in the first quarter, as the automaker sold fewer cars and trucks worldwide, though higher prices helped boost revenue, especially in North America. The Detroit company’s adjusted earnings topped Wall Street estimates, though its revenue fell short of analysts’ forecasts. GM reported net income of $2.94 billion, or $1.35 per share, versus a profit of $3.02 billion, or $2.03 per share, in the same quarter last year. Revenue jumped nearly 11% to $35.98 billion, below the $36.89 billion analysts projected. | https://localnews8.com/news/ap-national-business/2022/04/26/gms-2-94b-1q-profit-tops-street-views-but-revenue-misses/ | 2022-04-27T00:46:08Z |
Brand to give back to the massage profession by awarding $240,000 in scholarships over the next year
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Aug. 22, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Massage Envy, the nation's No. 1 provider of massage in the U.S. collectively across its franchise network and a national leader in skin care, today announced the launch of a national program to award 96 scholarships for future massage professionals over the next 12 months.
"As the inventor of the massage membership model and the industry leader, Massage Envy wants to give back to the industry by doing something that can change people's lives and will continue to help this great profession move forward," said Beth Stiller, Massage Envy's chief executive officer.
Under the Massage Envy National Scholarship Sweepstakes for Massage Therapists, each awardee will receive a $2,500 scholarship that can be used to attend any massage school of their choice. Eight scholarships will be awarded each month from October 2022 through September 2023.
"The massage profession has a promising future with job growth expected to be strong over the next decade. It's also a very portable skill set with job opportunities all over the country, and it offers flexibility to fit different life situations," Stiller said. "Whether you're considering your first career or changing to a new career, or perhaps you're a retiree or the spouse of someone in the military, the massage profession can be a good fit for you."
Stiller said scholarship recipients do not have to work at a Massage Envy franchised location upon graduation.
"Again, this is about doing what's right for the profession and finding good people to make it even stronger," she said. "Having said that, working at a Massage Envy franchised location has numerous benefits and I would put our brand culture against anybody in the category, and an added benefit is that we are finding that demand for massage has never been greater, so the future for those entering the profession looks bright.
To be eligible to enter for a chance to win a scholarship, entrants must be of legal age in their state. Entrants only need to enter once.
The first recipients will be drawn in October, 2022 and announced in November, 2022 with additional recipients announced in the following months. To learn more about the scholarship program or to enter, please go to www.massageenvy.com/scholarship.
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Open to legal residents of the 50 U.S./D.C. residents, 18+ (residents of AL & NE who must be 19+ or residents of MS who must be 21+) as of date of entry. See Official Rules at massageenvy.com/scholarship for entry periods, odds, prize description, limitations, and complete details. Sweepstakes begins August 22, 2022 and ends August 31, 2023. Sponsor: Massage Envy Franchising, LLC, 14350 N 87th St Ste 200, Scottsdale, AZ 85260.
Massage Envy, based in Scottsdale, Arizona, is a national franchisor and does not independently own or operate any of the Massage Envy franchised locations nationwide. The Massage Envy franchise network, through its franchise locations, is the leading provider of massage services. Founded in 2002, Massage Envy has approximately 1,100 franchise locations in 49 states that have together delivered more than 190 million massages and facials. For more information, visit www.massageenvy.com, or follow us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook at @MassageEnvy.
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SOURCE Massage Envy | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/22/massage-envy-announces-national-scholarship-sweepstakes/ | 2022-08-22T17:55:18Z |
Akamai places highest in Ability to Execute and furthest for Completeness of Vision for Cloud Web Application and API Protection
CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Sept. 6, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Akamai Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: AKAM), the cloud company that powers and protects life online, today announced it was named a Gartner Magic Quadrant Leader for Cloud WAAP for the sixth year in a row. In a companion report called Gartner Critical Capabilities for Cloud Web Application and API Protection, Akamai scored highest in 3 out of 4 use cases for cloud-based WAAP: API Security and DevOps, High Security, and Web-Scale Business Application.
The Magic Quadrant for Cloud Web Application and API Protection was previously published as the Magic Quadrant for Web Application Firewalls and Akamai has been named a Leader for six consecutive years. The report analyzes the market of cloud App & API Security solutions and evaluates providers on their ability to execute and completeness of vision. The report notes:
"The overall cloud WAAP market is mature, though some segments are quite dynamic, such as bot management and API threat protection. Unlike the WAAP appliance market, which is dominated by replacement purchases, the cloud WAAP market continues to experience double-digit growth, thanks to new customers, new applications to protect, and shifts from appliances to cloud-delivered security."
In addition, the Magic Quadrant for Cloud Web Application and API Protection states:
- By 2024, 70% of organizations implementing multicloud strategies for web applications in production environments will favor cloud web application and API protection platform (WAAP) services over WAAP appliances and IaaS-native WAAP.
- By 2026, 40% of organizations will select a WAAP provider on the basis of its advanced API protections and web application security features — up from less than 15% in 2022.
- By 2026, more than 40% of organizations with consumer-facing applications that initially relied only on a WAAP for bot mitigation will seek additional anomaly detection technology from specialized providers — up from less than 10% in 2022.
Cybersecurity professionals are faced with evolving and emerging threats, increasing the demands of the role. For example, Akamai's recent threat report for Apps & APIs stated that Web application attack attempts against customers grew by more than 300% year over year in the first quarter of 2022.
"Threat actors are constantly evolving to evade protections, both by retooling existing attacks and by finding new vulnerabilities to exploit. We believe that to be named a Leader in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Cloud WAAP for the sixth year in a row is testament to Akamai's dedication to continuously innovate and stay ahead of evolving threats," said Eric Graham, Akamai's vice president of product management. "We protect the most valuable, highly sought-after brands in the world and we appreciate both Gartner's recognition and the feedback of customers for our WAAP solutions."
CUSTOMER RECOGNITION
According to the report, "Akamai's customers continue to rate its vendor support highly, which is a notable achievement for a large platform provider. Consistently strong customer support creates trust and drives Akamai's adoption when prospective customers ask to request peer reference calls."i
Here are some additional comments from Akamai customers from the 2022 Gartner® Peer Insights™ "Voice of the Customer" Web Application and API Protection report:ii
"Akamai Is the gold standard for edge security. They have protected us for more than a decade and continue to innovate and improve" –Senior Technology Director in the Retail Industry
"Very good experience especially when it comes to automatically block new zero day exploits for example the recent log4J zero day was implemented on WAF very fast." –Head of Service & Security Management in the Government Industry
"The Swiss Army Knife for layer 7 protections. Able to construct "0-day" mitigations for "0-day" threats. Reduce cloud hosting costs by shedding unwanted traffic. Improved customer experience by reducing latency and increasing uptime. Peace of mind knowing we are safe from intruders." –Solutions Architect (Security) in the Banking Industry
"Akamai plays an important role in areas of security and performance. While the Akamai products are fantastic at what they do, what really stands them apart is the level of service they provide. The Akamai team truly feels like an extension of our own team. They genuinely care about the success of our business and are very proactive in helping us to fully leverage the platform and improve in areas of security and performance." –A Chief Technology Officer
To read the complete 2022 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Cloud Web Application and API Protection report, please see here.
Gartner Disclaimer
Gartner Peer Insights content consists of the opinions of individual end users based on their own experiences with the vendors listed on the platform, should not be construed as statements of fact, nor do they represent the views of Gartner or its affiliates. Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in this content nor makes any warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this content, about its accuracy or completeness, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. GARTNER and Magic Quadrant are registered trademark and service mark, and PEER INSIGHTS is a trademark and service mark, of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally and are used herein with permission. All rights reserved.
About Akamai
Akamai powers and protects life online. Leading companies worldwide choose Akamai to build, deliver, and secure their digital experiences — helping billions of people live, work, and play every day. With the world's most distributed compute platform — from cloud to edge — we make it easy for customers to develop and run applications, while we keep experiences closer to users and threats farther away. Learn more about Akamai's security, compute, and delivery solutions at akamai.com and akamai.com/blog, or follow Akamai Technologies on Twitter and LinkedIn.
Contacts:
Jim Lubinskas
Akamai Media Relations
703.907.9103
jlubinsk@akamai.com
i Gartner, Magic Quadrant for Cloud Web Application and API Protection, Jeremy D'Hoinne, Adam Hils, John Watts, Rajpreet Kaur, 30th August 2022
ii Gartner, Gartner Peer Insights 'Voice of the Customer': Web Application and API Protection, Peer Contributors, 22nd March 2022
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SOURCE Akamai Technologies, Inc. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/09/06/akamai-recognized-2022-gartner-magic-quadrant-leader-cloud-web-application-api-protection/ | 2022-09-06T17:31:59Z |
ATLANTA, June 30, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Board of Trustees (the "Board") of each of Invesco High Income Trust II and Invesco Senior Income Trust (each, a "Fund" and collectively, the "Funds") today announces the payment of the following dividends:
Effective August 1, 2018, the Board of Invesco High Income Trust II (NYSE: VLT) approved a Managed Distribution Plan (the "VLT Plan") for the Fund, whereby the Fund increased its monthly dividend to common shareholders to a stated fixed monthly distribution amount based on a distribution rate of 8.5 percent of the closing market price per share as of August 1, 2018, the date the VLT Plan became effective. The VVR Plan and the VLT Plan are collectively referred to herein as the "Plans."
The Board of Trustees (the "Board") of Invesco Senior Income Trust (NYSE: VVR) (the "Fund") approved an increase in the monthly distribution amount payable to common shareholders pursuant to the Fund's Managed Distribution Plan (the "Plan"). Effective April 1, 2022, the Fund will pay its monthly dividend to common shareholders at a stated fixed monthly distribution amount of $0.026 per share, an increase from a stated fixed monthly distribution amount of $0.021 per share.
1 A portion of this distribution is estimated to be from a return of principal rather than net income. The Section 19 notice referenced below provides more information and can be found on the Invesco website at www.invesco.com.
The following tables set forth the estimated amounts of the current distribution and the cumulative distributions paid this fiscal year to date from the sources indicated. You should not draw any conclusions about the Funds' investment performance from the amount of this distribution or from the terms of the Plans. All amounts are expressed per common share. Each Fund estimates that it has distributed more than its income and net realized capital gains; therefore, a portion of your distribution is estimated to be a return of capital. A return of capital may occur, for example, when some or all of the money that you invested in a Fund is paid back to you. A return of capital distribution does not necessarily reflect the Funds' investment performance and should not be confused with "yield" or "income." The amounts and sources of distributions reported in the 19(a) Notice are only estimates and are not being provided for tax reporting purposes. The actual amounts and sources of the amounts for tax reporting purposes will depend on each Fund's investment experience during the remainder of its fiscal year and may be subject to changes based on tax regulations. Each Fund will send shareholders a Form 1099-DIV for the calendar year that will tell them how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes.
* Form 1099-DIV for the calendar year will report distributions for federal income tax purposes. Each Fund's annual report to shareholders will include information regarding the tax character of Fund distributions for the fiscal year. The final determination of the source and tax characteristics of all distributions in 2022 will be made after the end of the year.
The monthly distributions are based on estimates and terms of each Fund's Plan. Monthly distribution amounts may vary from these estimates based on a multitude of factors. Changes in portfolio and market conditions may cause deviations from estimates. These estimates should not be taken as indication of a Fund's earnings and performance. The actual amounts and its sources may be subject to additional adjustments and will be reported after year end.
Each Fund's Performance and Distribution Rate Information disclosed in the table below is based on the Fund's net asset value per share (NAV). Shareholders should take note of the relationship between the Fiscal Year-to-date Cumulative Total Return with the Fund's Cumulative Distribution Rate and the Average Annual Total Return with the Fund's Current Annualized Distribution Rate. Each Fund's NAV is calculated as the total market value of all the securities and other assets held by the Fund minus the total liabilities, divided by the total number of shares outstanding. NAV performance may be indicative of a Fund's investment performance. The value of a shareholder's investment in each Fund is determined by the Fund's market price, which is based on the supply and demand for the Fund's shares in the open market.
Funds' Performance and Distribution Rate Information:
1 Fiscal year-to-date Cumulative Total Return assumes reinvestment of distributions. This is calculated as the percentage change in the Fund's NAV over the fiscal year-to-date time period including distributions paid and reinvested.
2 Cumulative Distribution Rate for the Fund's current fiscal period (March 1, 2022 to May 31, 2022) is calculated as the dollar value of distributions in the fiscal year-to-date period as a percentage of the Fund's NAV as of May 31, 2022.
3 The Current Annualized Distribution Rate is the current fiscal period's distribution rate annualized as a percentage of the Fund's NAV as of May 31, 2022.
4 Average Annual Total Return represents the compound average of the annual NAV Total Returns of the Fund for the five-year period ending May 31, 2022. Annual NAV Total Return is the percentage change in the Fund's NAV over a year including distributions paid and reinvested.
In order to comply with the requirements of Section 19 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, each Fund will provide its shareholders of record on the record date with a 19(a) Notice disclosing the sources of its dividend payment when a distribution includes anything other than net investment income.
The Plans will be subject to periodic review by each Fund's Board, and a Fund's Board may terminate or amend the terms of its Plan at any time without prior notice to the Fund's shareholders. The amendment or termination of a Fund's Plan could have an adverse effect on the market price of such Fund's common shares.
The amount of dividends paid by each Fund may vary from time to time. Past amounts of dividends are no guarantee of future dividend payment amounts.
Investing involves risk and it is possible to lose money on any investment in the Funds.
For additional information, shareholders of the closed end fund may call Invesco at 800-983-0903.
About Invesco Ltd.
Invesco Ltd. is a global independent investment management firm dedicated to delivering an investment experience that helps people get more out of life. Our distinctive investment teams deliver a comprehensive range of active, passive, and alternative investment capabilities. With offices in more than 20 countries, Invesco managed $1.5 trillion in assets on behalf of clients worldwide as of March 31, 2022.
For more information, visit www.invesco.com.
Invesco Distributors, Inc. is the US distributor for Invesco Ltd. It is an indirect, wholly owned, subsidiary of Invesco Ltd.
Note: There is no assurance that a closed-end fund will achieve its investment objective. Shares are bought on the secondary market and may trade at a discount or premium to NAV. Regular brokerage commissions apply.
NOT A DEPOSIT l NOT FDIC INSURED l NOT GUARANTEED BY THE BANK l MAY LOSE VALUE l NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY
—Invesco—
CONTACT: Jeaneen Terrio 212-278-9205 Jeaneen.Terrio@invesco.com
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SOURCE Invesco Ltd. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/30/invesco-closed-end-funds-pay-dividends/ | 2022-06-30T14:37:48Z |
Bow Slinger event at Fort Riley offers chance to “Meet Your Army”
Published: Aug. 4, 2022 at 6:49 PM CDT|Updated: 9 minutes ago
RILEY CO., Kan. (WIBW) - The 4th annual Bow Slinger event at Fort Riley will be a chance for the public to have some outdoor fun while also meeting some Army soldiers.
The August 20th event will be held from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Some of the scheduled activities include a military dog demonstration, a free Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks archery clinic, and a bus tour of Fort Riley.
There will also be displays of military equipment and a chance for the public to talk to soldiers. Army recruiters will provide a video game trailer for kids or adults to test their skills. Food trucks will also be on site to purchase lunch or refreshments.
Copyright 2022 WIBW. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/08/04/bow-slinger-event-fort-riley-offers-chance-meet-your-army/ | 2022-08-04T23:58:18Z |
ADDISON, Ill., June 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- With over 30 years' experience in vascular assessment, Huntleigh, a member of the Arjo family, has strived to provide patients, and the professionals who care for them, innovative solutions that improve outcomes and enhance patient well being. Technological innovations have now enabled the development of a new intraoperative Doppler system that includes a single-use, sterile intraoperative probe and Dopplex DMX Vascular Doppler. This latest system provides immediate evidence of a successful vascular reconstructive procedure by capturing the bloodflow waveforms with the surgical probe and displaying it on the high-resolution color display of the DMX Doppler. The Doppler results can then be stored on the micro SD card for later review or transfer to a computer. Bloodflow sound is also improved with the revolutionary Dynamic Digital Noise Reduction (DDNR) system that eliminates background noise when moving the probe. The probe is single-use and provided sterile to reduce the risk of infection during surgery. By providing quality assurance of blood flow intraoperatively, time and costs of a potential re-operation can be avoided and ischemic time can be significantly reduced. The Dopplex single-use intraoperative probe and DMX Doppler can assist in the performance of safe surgery.
"Quality control is vitally important in performing surgery, if secondary intervention and re-operation are to be avoided. Our Dopplex Single Use Intraoperative System enables surgeons to perform an Intraoperative Doppler ultrasound assessment with sound and waveform display and allows for storage in the Electronic Medical Records for documentation. The system brings high level quality assurance to Patients and Healthcare Providers."
– Simon Larsen, Managing Director
Our exceptional build standards and quality of manufacture and design not only gives outstanding performance, but also durability and a longer product life. The new single-use intraoperative Doppler system offers durability that will give years' worth of continued performance.
For more details, please visit https://www.huntleigh-healthcare.us/.
About Arjo
At Arjo, we believe that empowering movement within healthcare environments is essential to quality care. Our products and solutions are designed to promote a safe and dignified experience through patient handling, medical beds, personal hygiene, disinfection, diagnostics, and the prevention of pressure injuries and venous thromboembolism. With 6,500 people worldwide and 65 years caring for patients and healthcare professionals, we are committed to driving healthier outcomes for people facing mobility challenges.
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SOURCE Arjo | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/01/arjo-announces-new-single-use-intraoperative-doppler-system/ | 2022-06-01T15:21:56Z |
W. CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa., June 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, global standards organization ASTM International launched ASTM Xcellerate™, an emerging technology program focused on strengthening the world's emerging technology from research to standards.
"At ASTM International, we believe standards offer an invaluable platform for global collaboration," notes Kathie Morgan, ASTM International president. "The ASTM Xcellerate program aims to put standards at the heart of all emerging technologies – promoting excellence, accelerating development, and bridging the gap to sustained success."
The ASTM Xcellerate program builds on ASTM's globally recognized standards development process to provide the speed and agility new technologies need to survive and thrive.
Intending to accelerate progress across all emerging technologies, ASTM Xcellerate has a scope focused on:
- empowering broader global collaboration by harmonizing the needs of international research communities and embedding standards at the very start of the emerging technology process;
- accelerating commercialization and reducing costs by supporting key R&D, avoiding duplication of work, and minimizing wasted resources; and
- bridging the gap between research and full-scale operation by connecting industry and key stakeholders with relevance built in.
ASTM Xcellerate is built around four key pillars designed to meet the needs of industry, research organizations, regulators, academia, and governments as they explore the benefits standards can bring to emerging technologies around the world. The four pillars include:
- Centers of Excellence;
- Technical Experts;
- Market Insight; and
- Advisory Services.
"At present, ASTM Xcellerate currently covers four primary technologies including additive manufacturing, exo technologies, emerging airspace, and robotics and automation," according to Brian Meincke, ASTM International vice president, global business development and innovation strategy. "ASTM is globally recognized as a leading standards development organization among these industries and the ASTM Xcellerate program will support and grow our thought leadership in these and other key emerging technologies."
Meincke notes that in the future, the aim is to expand ASTM Xcellerate to include other exciting technologies where ASTM's research to standards approach can add real value.
ASTM International also launched a new website to serve as a hub for all ASTM Xcellerate activities. To learn more about ASTM Xcellerate, including programs, events, news and insights, and ways to get involved, visit www.astmxcellerate.com.
About ASTM International
Committed to serving global societal needs, ASTM International positively impacts public health and safety, consumer confidence, and overall quality of life. We integrate consensus standards – developed with our international membership of volunteer technical experts – and innovative services to improve lives… Helping our world work better.
Media Inquiries: Dan Bergels, tel +1.610.832.9602; dbergels@astm.org
Xcellerate Contact: Tessa Sulkes-Llewelyn, tel +1.610.832.9677; tsulkes@astm.org
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SOURCE ASTM International | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/28/astm-international-launches-xcellerate-program-emerging-technologies/ | 2022-06-28T15:06:30Z |
TetraScience announces 5-year, $500 million investment in the ongoing development and delivery of the world's only cloud-native, open, and purpose-built scientific data cloud as it lays the foundation for revolutionary AI- and ML-based discovery.
BOSTON, July 20, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- In response to overwhelming customer demand, TetraScience announced today the evolution of its industry leading data cloud to include manufacturing and quality control (QC) data as it seeks to relentlessly replatform and reengineer the world's scientific data in its cloud to radically accelerate and improve scientific outcomes. The Tetra Scientific Data Cloud™, already deployed in 10 of the top 20 pharma companies, helps customers solve previously intractable scientific data problems at scale.
BioPharma organizations have attempted to unlock the full value of their scientific data for decades in order to decrease time-to-market, glean scientific insights, and gain operational efficiencies. However, legacy systems, manual processes, incomplete cloud solutions, proprietary data formats, have contributed to inflexible point-to-point integrations to thousands of primary sources and millions of data silos. Having both upstream Research and Development (R&D) and downstream manufacturing and QC data available in the Scientific Data Cloud will yield long sought-after breakthroughs including new process development efficiencies, analytical control strategy, technology transfer acceleration, and reduction of manufacturing risk.
The Tetra Scientific Data Cloud systematically solves these problems across the BioPharma ecosystem, accelerating drug delivery while improving quality controls and data integrity. It comprises productized API-based integrations from the Tetra Partner Network, the open, cloud-native Tetra Data Platform which re-engineers raw or primary data into FAIR, harmonized "Tetra Data (™)," and use case-based Scientific Applications enriched by Tetra Data and the Tetra Partner Network. The Tetra Data Platform runs natively on Amazon Web Services (AWS) and is available as a SaaS solution in AWS Marketplace.
These new classes of scientific applications, built on the Tetra Data Platform in conjunction with Tetra Partners, reduce time-to-value by addressing the challenges of specific scientific lab operations and workflows. Examples include data flow automation in high throughput screening and batch release and stability testing. In addition, for customer use cases in manufacturing and quality control , Tetra GxP ensures the capture of data provenance through a comprehensive audit trail, disaster recovery, control matrices, and software hazard analysis.
In addition to its unparalleled cloud capabilities and deep scientific data knowledge, TetraScience's market position as the "Switzerland of Scientific Data" – namely, not seeking to compete with our instrument manufacturer, ELN, and informatics partners - uniquely engenders trust among all industry and adds value to their core offerings. With the world's scientific data trapped in millions of data silos, it's essential that TetraScience remains open and agnostic to data sources and endpoints and focused on one goal - maximizing the value of the data for all relevant stakeholders.
"By engineering and automating data flow in late stage biopharma labs, Tetrascience and our Tetra Network Partners have already transformed how safer, better products can be manufactured more efficiently. In fact, meaningful decisions are already being made using Tetra Data-powered data science in QA/QC labs across the globe. Increasingly, Tetra Data (™) is now being requested for reactors, bioanalyzers and other manufacturing equipment for the game-changing therapies of tomorrow," said Spin Wang, TetraScience CTO.
"As CRISPR advances our mission to develop transformative gene-based medicines for serious human diseases, it's critical that our advanced analytics are able to leverage as much scientific data as possible coming from a wide range of instruments and informatics systems.," said Julian Fowler, VP, Head of Information Technology at CRISPR Therapeutics. "TetraScience has brought us value in this area already, and we're very pleased to see the company further evolve their capabilities to better support an expanded set of use cases in QA and manufacturing via the Scientific Data Cloud."
"The Tetra Scientific Data Cloud is a one-of-a-kind, purpose-built industry data cloud optimized to accelerate and improve scientific outcomes. We're closely collaborating with the world's most innovative BioPharma companies, scientific vendors, leading technology companies – such as AWS, and top global systems integrators – such as Deloitte, to fundamentally transform customer outcomes," said Patrick Grady, TetraScience Chairman and CEO.
"TetraScience's cloud-native platform, built on AWS, coupled with its partner network and deep scientific knowledge, allows it to securely and compliantly assemble and engineer some of the world's largest scientific data sets," said Lita Sands, Worldwide Life Sciences Strategic Solutions Leader at Amazon Web Services (AWS). TetraScience's data engineering and harmonization at enterprise scale delivers the underlying data that enables advanced analytics and new artificial intelligence-based capabilities. This leads to accelerated and improved outcomes including increased business agility, reduced costs, improved productivity, and faster time-to-market."
"We've seen first-hand the pains and challenges biopharmas experience around fragmented, siloed scientific data trapped in legacy systems," said Laks Pernenkil, Principal, Life Sciences at Deloitte. "Digital innovation in the life sciences space is at an inflection point, and what TetraScience is doing to help organizations leverage the full value of scientific data will play an important role in transforming the value stream across drug discovery and development, QA, manufacturing, and supply chain."
TetraScience is the Scientific Data Cloud company with a mission to accelerate scientific discovery and improve and extend human life. The Scientific Data Cloud is the only open, cloud-native platform purpose-built for science that connects lab instruments, informatics software, and data apps across the biopharma value chain and delivers the foundation of harmonized, actionable scientific data necessary to transform raw data into accelerated and improved scientific outcomes. Through the Tetra Partner Network, market-leading vendors access the power of our cloud to help customers maximize the value of their data. For more information, please visit tetrascience.com.
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SOURCE TETRASCIENCE | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/20/tetrascience-launches-revolutionary-scientific-data-cloud-unlocking-innovation-value-throughout-rampd-manufacturing-quality-control/ | 2022-07-20T14:07:52Z |
AP source: At least 40 found dead in back of tractor trailer
SAN ANTONIO (AP) — A U.S. official says at least 40 people have been found dead inside a tractor-trailer in a presumed migrant smuggling attempt in South Texas.
The official says 15 others in the truck were taken to hospitals in the San Antonio, where the bodies were found Monday. The official spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the information had not been authorized for public release.
It may be the deadliest tragedy among thousands who have died attempting to cross the U.S. border from Mexico in recent decades. Ten migrants died in 2017 after being trapped inside a truck that was parked at a Walmart in San Antonio. In 2003, 19 migrants were found in a sweltering truck southeast of San Antonio.
Big rigs emerged as a popular smuggling method in the early 1990s amid a surge in U.S. border enforcement in San Diego and El Paso, Texas, which were then the busiest corridors for illegal crossings.
Before that, people paid small fees to mom-and-pop operators to get them across a largely unguarded border. As crossing became exponentially more difficult after the 2001 terror attacks in the U.S., migrants were led through more dangerous terrain and paid thousands of dollars more.
Heat poses a serious danger, particularly when temperatures can rise severely inside vehicles. Weather in the San Antonio area was mostly cloudy Monday, but temperatures approached 100 degrees.
___
Spagat reported from San Diego, Calif.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.kxii.com/2022/06/28/ap-source-least-40-people-found-dead-back-tractor-trailer/ | 2022-06-28T02:28:46Z |
Adding advanced FinTech capabilities and end-to-end transformation services for financial markets while accelerating Exadel's geographical expansion into LATAM and Canada
WALNUT CREEK, Calif., June 22, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Exadel (www.exadel.com), a global software consultancy and engineering company, today announced the recent acquisition of CPQi (https://cpqi.com/), a leading provider of transformation services for financial organizations worldwide.
"I am delighted to welcome CPQi to the Exadel family. This new partnership brings an extensive range of FinTech capabilities as well as advanced technology expertise in the areas of robotics process automation, predictive technology, and cloud services that add significantly to our overall offering," said Darren Oberst, CEO of Exadel. "And with offices in Brazil, Chile, Peru, Mexico, and Canada, CPQi fits perfectly with our greater expansion into Latin America and Canada. I am confident that the addition of CPQi capabilities and locations alongside Exadel's service and solution offerings will create significant value for clients in the marketplace and continue to drive growth."
"The geographical spread, culture and scale of Exadel made them the perfect choice for our next stage of growth," said Terry Boyland, founder and CEO of CPQi. "Matching our expertise in the financial markets technology arena with the new markets and much larger talent base of Exadel makes this a winning combination."
With a focus on advanced areas like omnichannel banking, blockchain development, and predictive artificial intelligence, CPQi provides consulting and engineering services and resources for leading financial institutions in the Americas.
CPQi is a leading provider of digital transformation and managed services in the Americas, focused exclusively on Financial Services. With a team of ex-bank CIO's with extensive experience working with some of the world's largest financial institutions, we bring "real life" experience to our clients.
Exadel is a global software engineering, business consultancy and solutions company, creating transformative strategies, platforms, and products clients need to run and grow their businesses. For more than 20 years we have developed solutions that accelerate the speed, quality, and efficiency of delivery while adding value to our customers. Exadel helps companies get the most out of their data, reducing expenditure and increasing scalability and access. A Forrester-recognized market leader in distributed Agile, we are proud of our history of partnering with the largest brands across all industries. For more information visit exadel.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter.
Media Contact
Olivia Heel
oheel@catapultpr-ir.com
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SOURCE Exadel | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/22/exadel-acquires-leading-fintech-provider-cpqi/ | 2022-06-22T14:17:58Z |
43 companies are recognized for providing their workforce with supportive benefits, policies, and programs
NEW YORK, July 29, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Parity.Org today announced the third annual Parity.Org Best Companies for Women to Advance™ List, also known as the ParityLIST™. Forty-three companies made the 2022 list, including Airbnb, Best Buy, Blue Shield of California, Domo, Nasdaq, PepsiCo, Ralph Lauren Corporation, and The Clorox Company. The ParityLIST was established by Parity.Org in 2020 to recognize organizations that have policies, benefits, and programs that eliminate barriers to women's advancement in the workplace.
Women make up nearly half (48%) of the total workforce, but executive teams are still overwhelmingly composed of white men – 67%. Closing this gap is a complex problem, but some companies are ready to tackle these issues by taking the steps that can lead to real change.
"Parity in leadership is crucial, but we know representation alone is not enough – we must create conditions intentionally designed to support women's ambitions, well-being and freedoms," said Roseann Lynch, Chief People Officer at Ralph Lauren Corporation and Head of the Ralph Lauren Corporate Foundation. "A world of equal opportunity means enabling all who identify as women to go as far as they dream."
Companies on the 2022 ParityLIST regularly measure and report to the executive team on gender equality metrics (88%), communicate their gender-equality values to employees (86%), offer flexible working hours (98%), encourage men to take their full family leave (95%), have a zero-tolerance harassment policy (98%), and provide a safe complaint system for employees (100%), among other supportive benefits. Thirty-one percent of the companies have an executive team that is at least 50% women – up from 21% of companies on the list last year. Ninety-one percent of the companies require recruiters to include at least one qualified woman on candidate slates for executive positions reporting to the CEO, and 84% of the companies conduct an annual assessment for managerial women's career progression.
"Intentionality is crucial in driving change and making progress toward a more diverse slate of leaders across the corporate landscape," said Cathrin Stickney, Parity.Org founder and CEO. "Last year, 93% of honorees reported that they had a specific equal-pay plan in place – and 45% had already successfully reached pay parity. This year, there's cause to celebrate – roughly the same percentage had a plan in place, but a full 72% have now reached pay parity. We have seen that being intentional pays off! "
The full 2022 ParityLIST, arranged by organizational size, includes:
Large (>5,000 employees)
Airbnb
Blue Shield of California
Best Buy
Deutsche Bank
Fortescue Metals Group (Fortescue)
Nasdaq
Pegasystems
PepsiCo
Ralph Lauren Corporation
The Clorox Company
Medium (500-4,999 employees)
Advisor Group
Bowery Farming
COTA
Domo
Evolent Health
Guild Education
Lucid Software
Momentive.ai
Orchard
Overstock
Recorded Future
Satellite Healthcare, Inc.
Skillz Inc.
Small (<500 employees)
Aetion Inc.
b.well Connected Health
BehaVR, Inc.
Chatbooks
Davinci Virtual
dbt Labs
Employmetrics
Janani Life
Leena AI
Mogul
Real-Time Innovations, Inc.
Sports Innovation Lab
Suma Wealth, Inc
United Way of Salt Lake
Very, LLC
Little Otter
Motherly
Quil
S'More
Sēkr, Inc.
Companies were rated on a comprehensive rubric covering recruiting, promotion, and compensation practices, leadership representation, and specific benefits and policies that collectively help companies achieve gender parity. The ParityLIST is an initiative of Parity.Org, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization focused on bringing gender and racial equality to the highest levels of business.
Parity.Org is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to closing the gender and racial gap in corporate leadership, where the gap is the widest. We take a pragmatic and research-based approach, offering a range of proven best practices and industry-leading tools for not only reaching—but sustaining—parity in leadership. Learn more at Parity.Org and follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram.
Parity.Org established the Best Companies for Women to Advance™ List in 2020, to recognize organizations that have benefits, policies, and programs that are particularly beneficial for women to advance in the workplace. After being rated on a comprehensive number of attributes and quantitative metrics, 43 companies have been named to this year's list.
Parity.Org®, the ParityPLEDGE®, the ParityMODEL™, the ParityINDEX®, and the ParityLIST™ are trademarks of Parity.Org.
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SOURCE Parity.Org | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/29/parityorg-announces-2022-paritylist-recognizing-organizations-that-support-womens-advancement-workplace/ | 2022-07-29T12:58:59Z |
Education Nonprofit Sets Impressive Goal to Serve 1M Students in the Next Five Years as it Announces Three New Board Members
GAITHERSBURG, Md., June 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- STEM education nonprofit Learning Undefeated is introducing new board chair, Elizabeth Huntley, and two new board members, Kerron Duncan and Lisa Carlton, as well as launching a new goal to prepare one million students for STEM careers within the next five years.
Ascending to Learning Undefeated's board chair position is Elizabeth Huntley, Head of Business Planning and Operations for the late-stage Respiratory and Immunology clinical development organization at AstraZeneca. "Learning Undefeated is transforming how and where STEM learning takes place, whether it's bringing a mobile laboratory right to the school parking lot or creating deep-impact programs that reach traditionally underserved student populations," said Huntley. "I'm truly proud to be part of Learning Undefeated's journey to energize one million more students about STEM careers."
To her role as board chair, Huntley brings substantive business operations experience along with strategy and transformation, communications, marketing, corporate philanthropy, and a keen understanding of the need for workforce development. Huntley has served the organization in a volunteer leadership capacity since 2008.
In addition to the new board chair, two additional members have joined Learning Undefeated's board of directors:
- Lisa Carlton, Vice President of Global Regulatory Affairs at REGENXBIO Inc, a clinical-stage biotechnology company specializing in gene therapy.
- Kerron Duncan, Director of Architecture and Engineering, for Northrop Grumman's Chief Information Office organization.
Since 2003, Learning Undefeated has reached more than 1.2 million students through innovative and experiential education programs for grades K-12. Widely recognized for its Mobile Labs that bring professional-grade laboratory equipment and the latest technology right to the school parking lot, Learning Undefeated adapted its programming beginning in March 2020 to provide authentic STEM distance learning resources and turnkey experiences for teachers to use in their own digital classrooms, all at no cost.
Learning Undefeated programs foster STEM identity, boost self-efficacy, teach hands-on and critical thinking skills, and empower students to succeed in the workforce of the future. These are part of the nonprofit's mission to drive race and gender equity in STEM for students and schools from marginalized communities.
To learn more about Learning Undefeated, visit their website: https://www.learningundefeated.org/.
About Learning Undefeated
Learning Undefeated provides life-changing STEM experiences for under-resourced communities by providing equitable access to education and inspiring students to imagine their own success. Through innovative and experiential education programs for grades K-12, we are promoting gender and race equality in STEM careers and building the workforce that will drive the innovation economy. Learning Undefeated's flagship education program features mobile STEM labs that have provided hands-on learning opportunities to over one million K-12 students in all 50 states since 2003.
Learning Undefeated also operates several other celebrated STEM education programs, including the Young Science Explorers Program, a summer camp for middle school students, Advancing Tomorrow's Leaders in STEM (ATLAS) College and Career Exploration Program, STEM Leadership Experience, student competitions, after-school programs, curriculum development and disaster recovery education.
Visit learningundefeated.org or follow us on social media @LearningUNDFTD.
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SOURCE Learning Undefeated | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/01/k-12-stem-nonprofit-learning-undefeated-prepare-1m-students-stem-careers-by-2027-announces-new-board-members/ | 2022-06-01T12:50:12Z |
BELLEVUE, Wash., Aug. 25, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- soundcore, the premium audio brand of Anker Innovations', today launched the Space Q45 over-ear headphones and the Space A40 earbuds under the newly renovated "Space" moniker. With an upgraded noise cancelling system, the Space series offers a leap forward in the customizable, noise-free listening experience, while delivering ultra-long playtime and impressive audio performance in two different form factors.
"Two of the most requested features by consumers are better battery life and stronger noise cancelling performance," said Rock Gao, General Manager, Headphones for soundcore. "When designing the Q45 and A40, our engineers wanted to offer consumers a no-compromise listening experience, not only with remarkable ANC performance, and industry-leading battery life but improved sound reproduction that is perfect for traveling or everyday usage."
soundcore's Best Ever Noise Cancellation: Leveraging the newly designed 3-stage noise cancelling system, the Q45 captures and blocks up to 98% of unwanted noise, while adaptive noise cancelling automatically optimizes ANC performance based on the outside environment.
The Space Q45's ANC performance utilizes an updated earcup design with comfortable memory foam earpads to create an enhanced seal, allowing listeners to focus on their favorite music without being distracted by the chaos of the outside world.
The Q45 also offers users the ability to customize the transparency mode and strength of it through the soundcore app (Google Play Store and Apple App Store,) to ensure important announcements are not missed.
Exceptional Sound Quality: Driven by a 40mm double-layer diaphragm driver with silk and metal-ceramic material, the Q45 elevates the audio performance over all frequencies for a balanced sound profile while producing an immersive sound stage and improved sound clarity. LDAC and Hi-Res Wired and Wireless certification provide a rich and detailed audio experience for listeners.
Industry-leading Battery Life: The Q45 offers users with ultra-long playtime with 50 hours of battery life with ANC turned on and 65 hours of playtime with ANC turned off, delivering all-week usage (or longer) for listening on-the-go or while traveling. If the Q45s are running out of juice, simply charging them for 5-minutes can provide up to 4 hours of playtime.
Other Key Features / Specs: The Space Q45 utilizes dual microphones with an enhanced A.I. algorithm to ensure clear calls, customization using the soundcore app, and a mode to limit maximum volume to protect hearing, especially for younger users. The Space Q45s also offer multi-point connectivity allowing them to be used with a laptop and phone simultaneously.
A40 In-Ear ANC Earbuds
Customized Listening Experience with Adaptive ANC: Integrating noise sensing microphones and passively blocking external sounds, the A40 can reduce up to 98% of external noise while using the earbuds.
The A40 features Adaptive ANC for a more optimal listening experience, which analyzes ambient sounds in real time and adjusts the strength of noise reduction processing depending on the environment.
Powerful Sound: Developed by soundcore, the A40's innovative 10mm Double-Layer-Diaphragm Drivers with metal ceramic material provide listeners not only with powerful bass and crisp treble but well-balanced audio of all frequencies.
Using the HearID feature in the soundcore mobile app, (available via the Google Play Store or Apple App Store,) users can easily tailor their listening experience. A simple procedure will automatically tune the audio frequencies to their personal hearing, while the app also offers several preset sound profiles or an 8-band custom EQ for the ultimate in customization.
All-Day Battery Life: The A40 provides up to ten hours of battery life from a single charge and 50-hours total listening time with the pocket-sized charging case, (equating to an additional 4 charges). Additionally, the fast-charging technology offers up to 4 hours of playtime from just 10-minutes of charging time.
The wireless charging case can be recharged by dropping it on to a Qi wireless charging pad or plugged in via USB-C cable.
Compact Design with a Comfortable Fit: The Space A40 features an ergonomic design along with five different sized silicone ear tips for a stable and comfortable fit. The compact and lightweight design makes them the perfect everyday carry earbuds during a daily commute, for a conference call or for just enjoying a new album release from a favorite band or music group.
Other Key Features / Specs: Featuring Bluetooth 5.2 allows users of the Space A40 to utilize multi-point connectivity for effortless multiple device paring. Users can connect to two devices simultaneously and smoothly switch between them.
Availability and Pricing
Currently, the Space Q45 is available in Black for $149.99 in the US, £139.99 in the UK, €149.99 EUR in Germany / Europe and $199.99 CAD in Canada on Amazon.com, soundcore.com and other retail partners including Best Buy in the US and MediaMarkt in Germany. White and Blue models are slated to become available in certain markets later this year.
The A40 will be offered in three colors: Black, White and Navy Blue. The A40 is available in the US for $99.99; £89.99 in the UK, €99.99 EUR in Germany / Europe, and $129.99 CAD in Canada on Amazon.com, soundcore.com and other retail partners including Target and Verizon in the US, Best Buy in Canada and MediaMarkt in Germany / European countries.
High-resolution product and lifestyle images are available at https://bit.ly/SoundcoreSpace
soundcore creates audio products that help spark emotions through music. This includes premium true wireless earbuds endorsed by Grammy-winning audio engineers and musicians, smart wearable audio devices as well as over-ear headphones and indoor and outdoor Bluetooth speakers designed to amplify the party. soundcore is part of the Anker Innovations' family of consumer brands. For more information, please visit soundcore.com.
Anker Innovations is a global leader in charging technology and a developer of unique, consumer electronic products that support premium audio, mobile entertainment, and the emerging smart home space. This innovation is being led by its six key brands: Anker, AnkerWork, eufy, Nebula, soundcore and now, AnkerMake. More information on Anker Innovations and its various brands can be found at anker.com.
PR Contact
Adam Weissman, Senior PR Manager, Anker/soundcore
adam.weissman@anker.com
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SOURCE soundcore; Anker Innovations | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/25/soundcore-unveils-space-series-with-two-new-anc-wireless-models-with-stronger-anc-long-lasting-battery-life/ | 2022-08-25T14:34:43Z |
A’ja Wilson earned WNBA MVP honors for the second time in her young career Wednesday.
The 26-year-old Las Vegas Aces forward received 31 of 56 first-place votes from a media panel. Seattle forward Breanna Stewart was second, garnering 23 first-place votes and finishing 32 points behind Wilson, who had 478 points.
Wilson also won the award in 2020 and is the seventh player to win it more than once.
“I just did not imagine this. I called my parents last night, and I was like ‘You can’t tell anyone, but like, we did it,’ and they just started screaming like they did the first time,” Wilson said. “It was just a feeling that just never gets old. I’m so glad that they’re able to enjoy this moment with me … because without them, there’s no me. This was definitely a top-three exciting moment.”
She averaged 19.5 points and 9.4 rebounds this season while shooting 50% from the field and had 17 double-doubles. She led the league in blocks per game with 1.9.
The award was announced one day after Wilson helped the Aces reach the WNBA Finals by knocking out Stewart and the Storm. Wilson also earned Defensive Player of the Year honors this year. She’s the fifth player to win both awards in the same season; the last to do it was Lauren Jackson in 2007.
“Just to have my name on that list is truly a blessing,” Wilson said. “Hopefully I can add a couple more of course, but just to be there and so young … our league is hard. It’s full of elite and great players, so for my name to now be on it, I’m blessed and thankful.”
Wilson’s Las Vegas teammate Kelsey Plum finished third and Connecticut’s Alyssa Thomas and Chicago’s Candace Parker — a two-time MVP — rounded out the top five in the voting.
Wilson was the No. 1 pick in the 2018 draft — the franchise’s first year in Las Vegas. She led the team to the WNBA Finals in 2020 where the Aces lost to Seattle when the season was played in Florida because of the coronavirus.
The Aces had the best record in the league this year and will host the WNBA Finals on Sunday against either Connecticut or Chicago. Those teams will play a decisive Game 5 on Thursday.
___
More WNBA playoffs: https://apnews.com/hub/wnba-playoffs and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://cw33.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-aja-wilson-earns-wnba-mvp-honors-for-2nd-time/ | 2022-09-08T17:05:53Z |
The CathWorks FFRangio® System to Be Featured in Multiple Live Cases and Clinical Presentations at TCT 2022
CathWorks and Medtronic Co-host Educational Symposia at TCT 2022
KFAR-SABA, Israel & IRVINE, Calif., Sept. 15, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- CathWorks announced today the schedule of key events for the company during Cardiovascular Research Foundation's annual Transcatheter Cardiovascular Therapeutics (TCT) 2022 conference taking place September 16 to 19 at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center in Boston, Massachusetts.
The fourth generation CathWorks FFRangio® System will be featured in multiple live cases, clinical presentations, educational symposia, and will be available for hands-on experience during Meet the Expert sessions.
"We are pleased to see the CathWorks FFRangio® System featured prominently during TCT, highlighting the pivotal role it could play in the management of patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). We look forward to continuing to partner with the interventional cardiology community to make FFRangio the standard of care," said Ramin Mousavi, President and CEO of CathWorks.
- On Saturday, September 17, Professor Ran Kornowski and his team at Rabin Medical Center in Tel Aviv, Israel will perform a live case during the Imaging and Physiology Guided Approach to PCI session.
- On Sunday, September 18, Dr. William F. Fearon and his team at Stanford Health Care in Palo Alto, CA will perform a live case during the Imaging and Physiology to Treat Left Main/Bifurcation Lesions session.
- On Saturday, Dr. Ioannis Skalidis from CHUV Lausanne University Hospital in Lausanne, Switzerland will present a Head-to-head Comparison of Two Different Angiography-derived FFR Techniques in NSTEMI Patients.
- On Saturday, Dr. Guy Witberg from Rabin Medical Center in Tel Aviv, Israel will present the PROVISION Study design, a clinical study led by Dr. Hitoshi Matsuo from Gifu Heart Center in Gifu, Japan and Dr. Hiroyoshi Yokoi from Fukuoka Sanno Hospital in Fukuoka City, Japan. This study will prospectively investigate the clinical and economic benefits of FFRangio guidance compared to invasive wire-based FFR.
- On Sunday, Dr. Guy Witberg will present the Two-year Clinical Outcomes of FFRangio Guided Treatment for Coronary Artery Disease.
CathWorks, in partnership with Medtronic and as part of the recently announced strategic partnership between the two companies, is pleased to sponsor multiple educational events at TCT. "We are excited to partner with Medtronic so we can amplify our educational efforts and broaden our global reach, enabling more physicians and patients to experience the benefits of the CathWorks FFRangio® System," said Ramin Mousavi.
Jason Weidman, Senior Vice President and President of the Coronary & Renal Denervation business unit at Medtronic added, "We are looking forward to officially debuting our strategic partnership with CathWorks at TCT this year, and we are excited to partner with the CathWorks team to bring the FFRangio System to even more physicians around the globe."
- The Saturday lunch symposium entitled CathWorks FFRangio® System: A New Era in Coronary Physiology, will be chaired by Dr. Martin B. Leon from Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY. The renowned faculty will share their experience integrating the FFRangio System in their cath labs and adopting it as their primary physiology tool.
- The Sunday morning symposium in the Medtronic Hub entitled Transforming CAD from Diagnosis to Treatment will be chaired by Dr. Ajay J. Kirtane from NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY. The esteemed clinicians and researchers from around the globe who are at the forefront of evidence generation for angiography-based physiology will share the latest evidence on FFRangio.
Attendees will have the opportunity to meet with leading physician experts one-on-one to experience the utility and reliability of the CathWorks FFRangio® System in the CathWorks booth.
Attendees can register for CathWorks events at TCT 2022 through the following link: https://ww2.cath.works/tct2022
CathWorks is the leader in digital health innovations that can improve the lives of patients globally. The CathWorks FFRangio® System combines artificial intelligence and advanced computational science, transforming how cardiovascular disease is diagnosed and treated. The FFRangio System obtains physiologic information from routine angiograms, eliminating the need for drug stimulation and invasive pressure wires. It provides physicians with quick and reliable intraprocedural FFRangio values for the entire coronary tree. For more information on CathWorks, visit www.cath.works and follow @CathWorks on Twitter and LinkedIn.
Contact
Media: Natalie Sickler natalie.sickler@cath.works
Investors: Mike Feher mike.feher@cath.works
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SOURCE CathWorks | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/09/15/cathworks-announces-key-events-tct-2022/ | 2022-09-15T14:54:26Z |
NEW YORK, Aug. 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Loews Corporation (NYSE: L) announced today the declaration of the Company's quarterly dividend of $0.0625 per share of Common Stock, payable August 30, 2022 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on August 17, 2022.
Loews Corporation is a diversified company with businesses in the insurance, energy, hospitality, and packaging industries. For more information please visit www.loews.com.
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SOURCE Loews Corporation | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/02/loews-corporation-announces-quarterly-dividend-common-stock/ | 2022-08-02T16:57:34Z |
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, April 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The list of contestants for the first places in the final of the international Holy Quran recitation and call to prayer competition, Scent of Speech (Otr Elkalam), is complete. The final episode will be broadcast on April 20. Eight contestants in the recitation and call to prayer categories reached the final stage to compete for the competition prizes.
The first-place winner in the category of reciting the Holy Quran receives $1.3 million, while the first-place winner in the category of delivering the call to prayer receives $533,000. The remaining prize money is divided among six other contestants.
The finalists in the Holy Quran recitation category include Younis Mustafa Gharbi from Morocco, Sayed Jassem Mousavi from Iran, Mohammad Ayoub Asif from the UK and Mohammad Mujahid from Bahrain. The finalists in the call to prayer category include Abdul Rahman bin Adel and Anas Al-Rahili from Saudi Arabia and Mohsen Kara and Albijan Celik from Turkey. The final of the international competition presents the sweetest and most beautiful voices in reciting the Holy Quran and delivering the call to prayer.
The entertainment authority in Saudi Arabia has allocated the largest financial prize in the history of talent competitions of this kind in the world, especially competitions of a religious nature, with a value of $3.2 million.
The competition, launched by the General Entertainment Authority, is distinguished by its precise criteria and specialized jury, which enhances competitiveness. It is broadcast daily on the Saudia channel and Shahid platform at 5 pm, Riyadh time.
Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1799117/Otr_Elkalam.jpg
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SOURCE Syaq Co. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/04/18/finalists-scent-speech-competition-are-set-win-32-million-prize/ | 2022-04-18T20:59:38Z |
US Coast Guard searches for man who jumped from cruise ship
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) - The U.S. Coast Guard is searching for a man who jumped overboard from a cruise ship early Saturday as it approached Florida.
The man jumped from the Carnival Cruise Lines ship Mardi Gras just after midnight about 55 miles east of Port Canaveral, according to the Coast Guard and Carnival.
The Coast Guard responded with two cutters and an airplane to search for the 43-year-old man. The Mardi Gras and the cruise ship Elation also participated in the search, said Coast Guard spokesman David Micallef.
“The Carnival Care Team is supporting the guest’s family. Mardi Gras,” said Carnival spokesman Matt Lupoli. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the guest and his family.”
Lupoli said the Coast Guard released the ship from the search efforts and it continued to Port Canaveral. It will continue sailing as scheduled.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/04/16/us-coast-guard-searches-man-who-jumped-cruise-ship/ | 2022-04-17T01:07:27Z |
SÃO PAULO, Aug. 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- ITAÚ UNIBANCO HOLDING S.A. informs its stockholders that its Board of Directors has approved, at the meeting held on this date, the payment of interest on capital, in the amount of R$0.306500 per share, with income tax withholding at a rate of 15%, resulting in net interest of R$0.260525 per share, except for the corporate stockholders able to prove that they are immune or exempt from such withholding. Such payment will be made on August 30, 2022, based on the final stockholding position recorded on August 18, 2022, with their shares traded ex-rights starting August 19, 2022.
For further information, please visit www.itau-unibanco.com.br/investor-relations, as follows: investor services > contact IR > IR services.
São Paulo (SP), August 8, 2022.
RENATO LULIA JACOB
Group Head of Investor Relations and Market Intelligence
Note: The amounts paid per share as interest on capital are the same for common shares (ITUB3) and preferred shares (ITUB4).
Contact:
Itaú Unibanco
Comunicação Corporativa
Telefone: (11) 5019-8880 / 8881
E-mail: imprensa@itau-unibanco.com.br
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SOURCE Itaú Unibanco Holding S.A. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/08/ita-unibanco-material-fact-payment-interest-capital/ | 2022-08-08T23:00:31Z |
The city council in Vincent, Alabama, voted to abolish its police department on Thursday, at least temporarily, two months after one of the officers sent a text message containing racist language to a colleague.
The council had previously voted to dissolve the three-member police department over the texts that were sent in June but which sparked outrage after they were posted online in late July.
At the emergency meeting on August 4, the council voted to suspend the police chief and assistant police chief with pay over the incident, and the third officer resigned that evening, leaving the town of nearly 2,000 residents with no active police officers.
It also approved a resolution to pursue termination of the two officers, but during a meeting Monday, City Attorney Bill Justice denied the request, citing the city's personnel policy that requires two written complaints and a verbal warning before an employee can be terminated.
On Thursday, the official ordinance to dissolve the police department was brought to a vote and passed unanimously.
Earlier in the day, Mayor James Latimore told CNN that the ordinance disbands the department and allows the city to enter into a contract for permanent law enforcement coverage with the Shelby County Sheriff's Office.
The two suspended officers will be laid off five days after the ordinance is passed, according to Latimore, who said during a town forum on Thursday that both officers recently put in paperwork for retirement.
The mayor also outlined the timeline of events related to the texts, adding that they were sent "sometime in June."
Before the council voted, member Corey Abrams motioned to add the word "temporarily" to the ordinance to give local leaders time to work on building the department from the ground up and reconstructing the personnel policies.
"We can bring the police department back; we can go with Shelby County for a year and then bring the police department back once we've had time to interview people to find the right people to build positions," Latimore said.
At the crowded two-hour forum at the high school, most residents expressed a desire to keep a police department in Vincent, as they highlighted their concerns about possible longer wait times during emergencies.
"We will lose a portion of that safety if we outsource our law enforcement," said resident Rick Crowder.
Latimore assured residents gathered that "It's not the end of Vincent Police Department."
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accounts, the history behind an article. | https://www.albanyherald.com/news/alabama-city-council-abolishes-police-department-after-furor-over-racist-texts-by-officers/article_b0a310d1-4326-54a2-b664-1b55c4fae5cd.html | 2022-08-20T03:30:44Z |
BOCA RATON, Fla., Aug. 17, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- TransMedia Group to Launch PR campaign for song recorded by singer/musician Roger Homefield and lyricist/videographer Sandy Koplowitz "That's Why We Need To Bring Back Trump!" https://youtu.be/oGqnlohevRc
TransMedia said PR campaign will show how it came about when Sandy brought Roger his lyrics for a pro-Trump parody, even though Roger hadn't sung or performed in 15 years and had become a political activist hosting his own "The Joe Citizen Show."
Roger modified the tempo and keys of Rogers and Hart's "The Lady is a Tramp" sung by Frank Sinatra for Sandy's new version for Roger to belt out criticism of Democrats and praise for Trump's accomplishments.
"Our program will present the recording as a musical weapon aimed at Trump's adversaries and deploring Biden's mismanaging America," said TransMedia CEO Tom Madden.
"Lawyers took care of the rights to the song and images in the video recording in which Roger bangs out Sandy's lyrics critical of government policies, persecutions, and the unjustified raid on Trump's home."
TransMedia said publicity will encompass the pair's passion for Trump's vision for America, as in Roger's words "We couldn't stomach the persecution of the president anymore, so we came out with an American standard song with a powerful message."
TransMedia to feature the song at political rallies and conventions so it winds up atop the charts. "Our publicity will show how Roger did an amazing job fitting his vocals into the song with the band, with Sandy's lyrics hitting the hot spots to help voters make the right decisions before America slips away for good, if Biden wins another term," said Madden.
TransMedia intends to show how creating this video was a labor of love meant to uplift Trump who they feel is under unrelenting siege.
Homefield was lead jazz trombonist with the Buddy Rich, Stan Kenton, and Maynard Ferguson big bands and was "Joe Citizen" on his pro-American radio show, composer for his orchestra, and arranged music for his musical variety act.
Koplowitz and Homefield met playing senior softball. A long-time member of the American Mensa Society, Sandy was a computer programmer for IBM and today he and Gabi, his opera-singing fiancée, perform singing gigs entertaining residents at assisted living facilities and nursing homes.
Media contact: Adrienne Mazzone 561-908-1683; amazzone@transmediagroup.com
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SOURCE TransMedia Group | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/17/transmedia-group-raise-media-volume-new-version-sinatras-hit-song-the-lady-is-tramp-retitled-thats-why-we-need-bring-back-trump/ | 2022-08-17T16:04:32Z |
BEIJING, May 19, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Joy Spreader Group Inc. (HKG:6988, "the Group", "Joy Spreader"), a leading marketing technology company listed in Hong Kong, issued a voluntary announcement on May 17, 2022, detailing the establishment of the overseas e-commerce division and highlights of its performance.
As an important component of the Group's long-term development roadmap, the overseas e-commerce business has been operating within expectations since the commencement of preparatory working in early 2021, delivering significant validation of the business model in the fourth quarter of 2021 as evidenced by a new revenue record of HK$148 million (approx. US$18.8 million) for the quarter.
To maintain the momentum, Joy Spreader has continued efforts to expand its business footprint. In the first quarter of 2022, the overseas e-commerce business booked sales of HK$512 million (approx. US$65.2 million) , soaring by 245.97 per cent over the previous quarter, while sales volume grew to 420,400 units, a 290.55 per cent surge.
The overseas e-commerce business is fed by content traffic based on user recommendations from an already well-established short video new media platform in tandem with a closed-loop business ecosystem, consisting of an e-commerce platform wholly built and operated by Joy Spreader, as well as a proprietary e-commerce supply chain that integrates product sourcing, customs clearance, warehousing, logistics and payment.
To date, the overseas e-commerce business operates in several countries and regions in Southeast Asia and primarily markets several of China's well-known national consumer electronics brands. The Group is one of the first Chinese operators to successfully commercialize its product lineup on a leading overseas short video platform.
The rapid growth of the overseas e-commerce business has led the Group to implement a structural change to the business by establishing a wholly-owned subsidiary in Hong Kong SAR, Joy Spreader Interactive Group (HK) Limited, with the entity running the overseas e-commerce business.
The Group has appointed Zhang Zhidi as the head of the new subsidiary, with responsibility for the development strategy and overall operations. In October 2021, Mr. Zhang exited his former role as Joy Spreader's executive director and general manager in order to take charge of the overseas e-commerce business, including preparatory work and business development. The above reported quarterly results provide evidence of the success of the initial efforts.
The establishment of the new division enhances the Group's capabilities to seize market opportunities, capitalize on first mover advantages and create barriers to competitors. Drawing on its accumulated experience in and proven data models for algorithm-based marketing on the world's short video new media platforms, in tandem with the integration of supply chain resources and e-commerce infrastructure, the Group is on pace to further optimize its overseas e-commerce business, while, in parallel, gradually expanding operations into more emerging markets, with the goal of creating a world-class independently-operated DTC e-commerce platform for consumer electronics.
By expanding into more emerging markets and implementing the enhanced business model, Joy Spreader's overseas e-commerce business is on track to become a new and profitable growth point for the Group while, serving as a robust springboard for further development and growth.
For more information about Joy Spreader Group Inc., please visit here.
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SOURCE Joy Spreader Group Inc. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/05/19/joy-spreader-establishes-overseas-e-commerce-division-reported-hk512-million-revenue-q1-2022/ | 2022-05-19T09:20:43Z |
(The Hill) – The Supreme Court on Thursday curbed the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) ability to regulate climate change, setting limits on how the agency can deal with power plants.
In a 6-3 ruling, the justices determined that Congress did not authorize the EPA to induce a shift toward cleaner energy sources using the approach that an Obama-era regulation sought to.
“Congress did not grant EPA…the authority to devise emissions caps based on the generation shifting approach the Agency took in the Clean Power Plan,” the majority wrote, referring to an Obama-era power plant regulation.
The ruling was split along ideological lines, with its conservative justices opting to restrict the EPA’s power while the liberal justices disagreed.
At issue in the case was language in the Clean Air Act that enables EPA to regulate power plants using a “best system of emissions reduction” and what specifically that system can entail.
The majority opinion, penned by Chief Justice John Roberts, determined that the Obama administration’s use of a system that involved moving away from carbon-intensive coal plants and toward natural gas and renewables did not qualify.
Roberts wrote that the plan, which involved regulating the power system as a whole instead of regulating individual plants, was an “unprecedented” view of the EPA’s authority that involved a “fundamental revision of the statute, changing it from [one sort of] scheme of . . . regulation” into an entirely different kind.
In Thursday’s ruling, the court took a regulatory tool off the table for the Biden administration, which is currently working on its own power plant regulations.
Legal experts recently told The Hill that preventing the EPA from using certain climate tools could result in regulations that allow more planet-warming emissions overall.
Justice Elena Kagan, writing a dissent for the three liberal justices on Thursday, said the majority was constraining the federal government’s ability to address carbon emissions during a time of crisis.
“The subject matter of the regulation here makes the Court’s intervention all the more troubling,” Kagan wrote. “Whatever else this Court may know about, it does not have a clue about how to address climate change. And let’s say the obvious: The stakes here are high. Yet the Court today prevents congressionally authorized agency action to curb power plants’ carbon dioxide emissions.
“The Court appoints itself—instead of Congress or the expert agency—the decision-maker on climate policy. I cannot think of many things more frightening.”
While the majority tailored its ruling to the challenge against the EPA’s authority, the decision could have implications for other administrative agencies, with the newly emboldened conservative wing indicating it will be skeptical of any broad interpretations of regulatory authority delegated by Congress.
The liberal justices accused the majority of straying from their own principles in interpreting legislative text in order to deal a blow to environment regulators. In her dissent, Kagan mentioned a 2015 speech she gave in which she said, “We’re all textualists now.”
“It seems I was wrong,” Kagan wrote on Thursday. “The current Court is textualist only when being so suits it.” | https://cw33.com/news/nexstar-media-wire/supreme-court-curbs-epas-climate-powers/ | 2022-06-30T17:46:13Z |
New York City declares monkeypox a public health emergency
NEW YORK (AP) — Officials in New York City declared a public health emergency due to the spread of the monkeypox virus Saturday, calling the city “the epicenter” of the outbreak.
The announcement Saturday by Mayor Eric Adams and health Commissioner Ashwin Vasan said as many as 150,000 city residents could be at risk of infection. The declaration will allow officials to issue emergency orders under the city health code and amend code provisions to implement measures to help slow the spread.
In the last two days, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul declared a state disaster emergency declaration and the state health department called monkeypox an “imminent threat to public health.”
New York had recorded 1,345 cases as of Friday, according to data compiled by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. California had the second-most, with 799.
“We will continue to work with our federal partners to secure more doses as soon as they become available,” Adams and Vasan said in the statement. “This outbreak must be met with urgency, action, and resources, both nationally and globally, and this declaration of a public health emergency reflects the seriousness of the moment.”
The World Health Organization declared monkeypox a global health emergency on July 23. The once-rare disease has been established in parts of central and west Africa for decades but was not known to spark large outbreaks beyond the continent or to spread widely among people until May, when authorities detected dozens of epidemics in Europe, North America and elsewhere.
To date, there have been more than 22,000 monkeypox cases reported in nearly 80 countries since May, with about 75 suspected deaths in Africa, mostly in Nigeria and Congo. On Friday, Brazil and Spain reported deaths linked to monkeypox, the first reported outside Africa. Spain reported a second monkeypox death Saturday.
The virus spreads through prolonged and close skin-to-skin contact as well as sharing bedding, towels and clothing. In Europe and North America, it has spread primarily among men who have sex with men, though health officials emphasize that the virus can infect anyone.
The type of monkeypox virus identified in this outbreak is rarely fatal, and people usually recover within weeks. But the lesions and blisters caused by the virus are painful.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/07/31/new-york-city-declares-monkeypox-public-health-emergency/ | 2022-07-31T00:30:35Z |
(NEXSTAR) – So you’ve beaten the infinitesimal Mega Millions odds and are now staring down a life-changing influx of cash – but what you do next with that jackpot money will decide how rich you ultimately remain.
On Tuesday, the jackpot surpassed $1 billion. While many fantasize about spending the cash, the actual winners may be overwhelmed with a different feeling – anxiety.
“The biggest fear that pretty much all sudden wealth recipients have, and especially lottery winners, is that they’re going to screw it up,” Robert Pagliarini, author of “The Sudden Wealth Solution,” told Nexstar.
Pagliarini has been advising clients, including lottery winners, for over 20 years on how to handle large influxes of money. He says that the goal is always to turn that lump sum into lasting wealth, but added that for lottery winners there are some must-dos.
Protect the ticket
Holding a winning ticket and knowing that a single slip of paper could easily be lost or stolen can be a terrifying feeling.
Until it’s signed, a lottery ticket is a bearer instrument, meaning that whoever has the ticket can claim the money.
“That means that they really need to document that they are the owner of the ticket,” Pagliarini said. “So I would take a selfie with the ticket, I would take a video of me and the ticket, I would sign the ticket and I would keep that ticket in a very, very safe place.”
Over the years, there have been horror stories when it comes to this nerve-wracking period after a lottery win – there was a woman in California who said she lost a $26 million ticket in the laundry. A man in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina thought he lost his winning ticket forever – only to have his wife find it.
Build your team
For lottery winners, it can be their own friends and family – or complete strangers – who try to siphon away their money.
“They will want to try to separate you from your new lottery winnings, and that happens often,” Pagliarini said. “And so you need a team to insulate you and to protect you from that.”
He recommends hiring an attorney, tax advisor and a financial advisor, as well as keeping the lottery win a secret for as long as possible. If you live in a state where you have to disclose the victory, that adds a number of challenges “because now the entire world, especially this size of a jackpot, everyone’s going to be talking about.”
There’s going to be helicopters flying overhead when you go and collect the winnings like this. This stuff happens because the world gets excited. And now everyone knows that you’ve got a billion dollars that’s not good. In no circumstances is that a good thing.
Robert Pagliarini, founder, Pacific Wealth Advisors
Pagliarini recommends building a media plan, sharing the news with only one trusted family member at first and staying out of the public eye when possible.
The big decision
A monumental decision that Mega Millions jackpot winners face is how to receive their winnings – in a big lump sum or spread out over years in annuity payments.
If someone beats the 1-in-302,575,350 odds and wins the current Mega Millions jackpot on Friday, they will ultimately have to choose between taking the pot in 30 payments over 29 years, or the reduced lump cash sum of roughly $602 million.
The decision is ultimately a personal one, and what might be ideal for one could be disastrous for another.
“My gut is that 99-plus percent of people choose the lump sum because they want the money, but the problem with that is now that they’ve got this money, if they if they mess up, if they make some bad decisions, if they get the wrong people on their team, they spend too much and there’s no do-over button,” Pagliarini said. “With an annuity, you know, you can screw up year after year after year, and it’s OK because the next year you’re gonna get a new paycheck. And so maybe for the first seven or eight years, you just blow it. But by year eight or nine, you kind of got things figured out. That means you’ve got another 20 years of paychecks coming your way to just sort of redeem yourself.”
“You’ve got to see what is the best option for you,” echoed Steven Evensen, CFP, a financial advisor with Gerber Kawasaki Wealth and Investment Management.
While the lump sum is more popular and would grant immediate access to the cash, it also means more taxes.
“You’d be taxed up to 37% federally, and then even more so depending on your state tax,” Evensen cautioned. “So I would speak to an accountant about that to make sure you aren’t kind of overspending in your head before you actually receive the money and receive your tax bill at the end of the day.”
Regardless of which payout plan you choose, Evensen recommends investing some of the money. What you invest in depends on your goals, but “low cost mutual funds, index funds are a great place to start.” | https://cw33.com/news/nexstar-media-wire/if-you-win-the-1-billion-mega-millions-jackpot-heres-what-experts-say-to-do-next/ | 2022-07-28T17:31:44Z |
TAMPA, Fla., Aug. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Immunologix Laboratories announced today that Dr. Corinna Fiorotti has been appointed Chief Commercial Officer. An experienced science and business leader, Dr. Fiorotti assumed responsibilities on August 1, 2022 and will oversee all aspects of Immunologix Laboratories commercial function, including business development, marketing, and commercial growth
"We are fortunate to have someone of Dr. Fiorotti's caliber and experience step up to lead the commercial operation, including the business development team, at Immunologix" said Michael Anderson, President and CEO. "Corinna is strategically positioned for the role of CCO as she has a deep understanding of our business from both the scientific and business points of view and brings a strong track record of business success. As a member of our unique Translational Sciences team at Immunologix for the past 2 years, Dr. Fiorotti has built an in-depth understanding of our services and the market. She is a strong communicator who is customer focused and possesses operational and leadership capabilities to successfully execute on the company's strategy and growth plans"
Dr. Fiorotti holds a Ph.D. in Microbiology and Immunology and has worked in drug development for 19 years, with combined experience from both Sponsor and CRO organizations. She therefore brings a comprehensive perspective to the business development endeavors at Immunologix and is uniquely positioned to serve as CCO.
Fiorotti said, "I am honored and excited to lead the commercial team at Immunologix Laboratories. It is a privilege to be part of an organization that delivers such high caliber bioanalytical and biomarker services and innovative scientific solutions to our clients to help them bring lifesaving therapies to patients. Immunologix has an exceptional scientific team that is truly passionate about the work we do. Our culture is built around a commitment to high quality science for our clients and providing scientific growth opportunities for our staff. We are an organization led by purpose, to make a positive, meaningful impact on the client projects that we support and thereby to improving the lives of patients."
Founded in 2012, Immunologix Laboratories is a contract research organization located in Tampa FL that offers GLP and GCP compliant laboratory capabilities focused on ligand binding-based bioanalysis specializing in pharmacokinetic, immunogenicity, and biomarker assays in support of preclinical and clinical studies. Immunologix Translational Sciences Division provides dedicated scientific resources to advise, develop, and implement scientific strategies and practical solutions for innovator development programs.
Name: John Ryan
Job Title: Executive Director, Business Development
Email address: jryan@immunologixlabs.com
Website: https://www.immunologixlabs.com/
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SOURCE Immunologix Laboratories | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/03/immunologix-laboratories-appoints-dr-corinna-fiorotti-chief-commercial-officer-cco/ | 2022-08-03T15:58:44Z |
New partnership provides physicians with clinical decision support guidance for individualized dosing regimens, maximizing treatment efficacy and improving patient safety
SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today InsightRX, a high-growth healthcare technology company that provides cloud-based clinical decision support for point-of-care precision dosing, announced its partnership with Healix, the national leader in physician office-based infusion services. InsightRX uses patient-specific data, pharmacokinetic/ pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) models, and Bayesian forecasting to deliver precision dosing guidance based on each patient's unique pharmacological profile.
Healix provides in-office infusion management services for the intravenous administration of outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) to a patient population with a range of conditions, including complicated skin infections and bone and joint infections, with or without Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection.
InsightRX Nova, the company's clinical decision support tool for prospective dosing, guides physicians in determining the optimal initial dose for each patient. The tool uses patient-specific exposure metrics to help physicians tailor the dosing regimen as treatment progresses.
The InsightRX precision dosing platform now supports more than 2,000 physicians and 300 infusion clinics across the country, and is available across the entire Healix enterprise. Since implementing InsightRX Nova in April 2021, Healix sites have seen low rates of acute kidney injury, ensuring patient safety.
"Our partnership with InsightRX allows us to offer best-in-class precision dosing support to help our physician clients make evidence-based decisions for safer, more effective treatment," said Lucinda Van Anglen, Vice President of Clinical Pharmacy and Research at Healix. "By replacing trough-based dosing with MAP-Bayesian analysis for AUC/MIC vancomycin dosing, we're meeting new national recommendations to help ensure patient safety and improve clinical outcomes."
In addition to individualized dosing guidance, InsightRX will also provide Healix with real-time analytics to help the organization monitor its performance and conduct site-specific validation of the best pharmacokinetic model for each drug. By analyzing which model returns the most precise predictions of a patient's drug concentration levels in the blood, Healix and InsightRX will embark on a cycle of continual quality improvement to fine-tune best practices in dosing administration.
"We're excited to work side-by-side with Healix to further our shared mission of achieving superior clinical outcomes," said Sirj Goswami, PhD, CEO and Co-Founder of InsightRX. "As precision medicine becomes more widely recognized as the standard-bearer for evidence-based care, we expect that more and more healthcare markets will adopt model-informed precision dosing. Partnering with Healix lets us help patients maximize the therapeutic benefit of their home infusions while minimizing the risk of adverse events."
About Healix
As the premier provider of outpatient infusion management services, Healix has provided patient and physician peace of mind for more than 30 years. With more than 300 infusion clinics across the country, Healix specializes in infectious disease, gastroenterology, neurology, rheumatology, allergy, immunology, and pulmonology. The Healix team serves as an extension of the physician's practice, optimizing patient care, comfort, compliance, and clinical outcomes in an outpatient setting. Clients rely on Healix to handle complete infusion center operations, including drug purchasing, revenue cycle management, managed care programs, and clinical staffing.
About InsightRX
InsightRX is a healthcare technology company that has developed a cloud-based platform for precision medicine and clinical analytics designed to individualize treatment at the point of care. The platform leverages patient-specific data, pharmacology models, and machine learning to understand each patient's unique pharmacological profile and can be integrated seamlessly within a clinical workflow. InsightRX Nova has attained a CE mark in six European Countries, further demonstrating the company's dedication to quality, cybersecurity, and general privacy and data protection regulations.
InsightRX Media Contact
Megan Moriarty
Amendola Communications
Email: mmoriarty@acmarketingpr.com
Cell: 913.515.7530
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SOURCE InsightRX | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/09/healix-insightrx-provide-patient-specific-precision-dosing-outpatient-infusion-therapy/ | 2022-08-09T15:53:15Z |
- Demonstrates first-ever commercial product capable of single-cell RNA sequencing on FFPE tissues
- Opens preorders for CytAssist, the company's first spatial instrument
- Shares new data on the company's Xenium In Situ Analyzer, expected to ship by year-end
PLEASANTON, Calif., June 7, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- 10x Genomics, Inc. (Nasdaq: TXG), a life sciences leader focused on mastering biology to advance human health, today announced a series of product updates that will be presented at the 2022 Advances in Genome Biology and Technology (AGBT) General Meeting this week in Orlando, Fla. The latest developments across 10x Genomics' leading Chromium and Visium platforms and the highly anticipated Xenium launch expected later this year showcase the company's leadership and innovation at the forefront of single-cell analysis, spatial biology, and in situ technology.
"With major advances in each of our three platforms, we are executing to make 2022 the most exciting year of product launches in our history," said Ben Hindson, Co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer of 10x Genomics. "As the only company with technologies that cover single cell, spatial and in situ analysis, we're in the best position to fuel researchers' discoveries and unlock new biological insights that will ultimately advance human health. We look forward to demonstrating the power of 10x Genomics' leading platforms, showcasing researchers' success with our technologies and highlighting our robust product pipeline at AGBT."
In addition to the new developments announced today, 10x Genomics will host a workshop at AGBT on Thursday, June 9, at noon Eastern to share the latest data across its three platforms, including Xenium.
As part of the company's robust R&D pipeline, 10x Genomics is driving innovation to enable broad adoption of the Chromium single-cell platform by increasing access to more sample types, removing bottlenecks, and giving researchers a more flexible and streamlined workflow.
10x Genomics today announced the compatibility of its recently launched Fixed RNA Profiling Kit to enable single-cell transcriptomics on dissociated formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues. This groundbreaking capability enables single-cell analysis on preserved biobank samples for the first time ever. FFPE tissues are ideal for translational and clinical research, yet have remained inaccessible for single-cell analysis until now.
"Our Chromium platform has fueled thousands of discoveries and helped profile more than 5 billion cells, accelerating the scientific community's understanding and mastery of biology," said Michael Schnall-Levin, Founding Scientist and Chief Technology Officer at 10x Genomics. "Yet, all of these insights have been generated in prospective studies leveraging fresh or fresh-frozen tissues. Now, for the first time ever, researchers can look retrospectively and analyze FFPE tissues at single-cell resolution and scale. By opening up the archives for single-cell analysis, we have the potential to truly transform the future of health and medicine."
Both the Fixed RNA Profiling Kit and the previously announced Nuclei Isolation Kit, 10x Genomics' first sample preparation product, are now shipping.
10x Genomics announced the launch and pre-order availability of two new products in its Visium portfolio, the leading spatial discovery platform:
- Visium CytAssist - The company's first spatial instrument, Visium CytAssist helps researchers bridge the world of histology and genomics and enables spatial profiling insights to be gained from an expanded range of FFPE samples. The compact, benchtop system simplifies sample processing by facilitating the transfer of analytes from tissue sections pre-mounted on standard glass slides to Visium slides.
- Visium for FFPE v2: Demonstrating its continued commitment to innovation and rapid advancements, 10x Genomics is launching the second version of its spatial FFPE workflow, less than one year after releasing the initial Visium for FFPE assay. Visium for FFPE v2 features several product advancements and workflow improvements, including the flexibility for larger capture areas and the ability to profile RNA and dozens of proteins simultaneously in the same FFPE tissue section at high spatial resolution. The v2 assay is expected to begin shipping later this month.
"Spatial genomics takes single-cell characterization to the next dimension, and 10x Genomics is leading the way in spatial biology with several new launches that will help further researchers' understanding of health and disease," said Schnall-Levin. "We are excited about the breadth of our spatial analysis product roadmap, which will help further the capabilities of the Visium platform with new technologies focused on enabling more analytes, more samples, and greater resolution."
Building on its leadership and innovation in single-cell and spatial analysis, 10x Genomics is planning to launch its Xenium platform for in situ analysis later this year.
"In situ analysis that allows for true single-cell spatial resolution is the next frontier of biology, and we're incredibly excited to launch our Xenium platform later this year," said Schnall-Levin. "The initial launch is just the beginning for us. We have an extensive, multi-year product roadmap that will unlock the full capabilities of the Xenium platform and deliver on the promise and potential of in situ analysis."
10x Genomics developed the Xenium platform by uniting its internal development with its 2020 acquisitions of CartaNa and ReadCoor, which provided intellectual property, key technology advances, and deep talent and expertise in the emerging in situ field. To date, the company has more than 200 patents issued and pending in the in situ field, including key patents for features related to high throughput and high sensitivity.
At launch, Xenium is expected to offer single-molecule RNA analysis at subcellular resolution and be compatible with both fresh frozen and FFPE tissues. In addition, 10x Genomics is developing Xenium to have the highest throughput of any instrument in its class.
10x Genomics expects to begin shipping the Xenium Analyzer by year-end.
10x Genomics will present five posters during AGBT demonstrating the use of its platforms to generate novel biological insights.
- Poster #305, Session 1: Barcode Enabled Antigen Mapping (BEAM) enables next-generation systems immunology analysis of the post-COVID-19 immune landscape
Presented by Sarah Taylor, Ph.D., Director of Applications - Poster #502, Session 2: High sensitivity single cell RNA profiling of fixed cells via in situ RNA-templated ligation
Presented by Andrew Kohlway, Ph.D., Senior Staff Scientist - Poster #528, Session 2: Unlocking the power of scale with high-throughput multiomic single cell assays
Presented by Dagmar Walter, Ph.D., Staff Scientist - Poster #594, Session 2: A new spin on sample preparation: rapid, scalable isolation of nuclei for single cell genomics
Presented by Mike Gibbons, Ph.D., Senior Scientist - Poster #600, Session 2: Combining highly multiplexed protein and transcriptome-wide RNA expression to achieve spatially resolved multiomic characterization of the tumor microenvironment in FFPE tissues
Presented by Marlon Stoeckius, Ph.D., Co-Director of R&D, Stockholm
10x Genomics is a life science technology company building products to interrogate, understand and master biology to advance human health. Our integrated solutions include instruments, consumables and software for analyzing biological systems at a resolution and scale that matches the complexity of biology. 10x Genomics products have been adopted by researchers around the world including in all of the top 100 global research institutions as ranked by Nature in 2020 based on publications and all of the top 20 global pharmaceutical companies by 2020 research and development spend and have been cited in over 3,700 research papers on discoveries ranging from oncology to immunology and neuroscience. Our patent portfolio comprises more than 1,350 issued patents and patent applications.
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 as contained in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which are subject to the "safe harbor" created by those sections. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, may be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may," "might," "will," "should," "expect," "plan," "anticipate," "could," "intend," "target," "project" "contemplate," "believe," "estimate," "predict," "potential" or "continue" or variations of them or similar terminology, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. These forward-looking statements include statements regarding 10x Genomics, Inc.'s expectations regarding our business operations, financial performance and results of operations, including our expectations regarding 10x Genomics, Inc.'s product roadmap, as well as our ability to meet our anticipated cash needs for the foreseeable future. These statements are based on management's current expectations, forecasts, beliefs, assumptions and information currently available to management, and actual outcomes and results could differ materially from these statements due to a number of factors. The material risks and uncertainties that could affect 10x Genomics, Inc.'s financial and operating results and cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements made in this press release include those discussed under the captions "Risk Factors" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and elsewhere in the documents 10x Genomics, Inc. files with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time.
Although 10x Genomics, Inc. believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot provide any assurance that these expectations will prove to be correct nor can it guarantee that the future results, levels of activity, performance and events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or occur. These forward-looking statements do not reflect the potential impact of any future acquisitions, mergers, dispositions, joint ventures or investments 10x Genomics may make. Further, as the COVID-19 pandemic is continuously evolving, such forward-looking statements may not accurately or fully reflect the potential impact that the COVID-19 pandemic may have on the business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of 10x Genomics, Inc. The forward-looking statements in this press release are based on information available to 10x Genomics, Inc. as of the date hereof, and 10x Genomics, Inc. disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements provided to reflect any change in our expectations or any change in events, conditions, or circumstances on which any such statement is based, except as required by law. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing 10x Genomics, Inc.'s views as of any date subsequent to the date of this press release.
10x Genomics uses filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, our website (www.10xgenomics.com), press releases, public conference calls, public webcasts and our social media accounts as means of disclosing material non-public information and for complying with our disclosure obligations under Regulation FD.
Investors: investors@10xgenomics.com
Media: media@10xgenomics.com
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SOURCE 10x Genomics, Inc. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/07/10x-genomics-advances-leadership-innovation-single-cell-spatial-technologies-2022-agbt-general-meeting/ | 2022-06-07T11:41:32Z |
BLOOMFIELD, N.J. (AP) — Michael Barrows wore his Grateful Dead T-shirt and Jerry Garcia face mask for opening day of recreational marijuana sales in New Jersey on Thursday, one of dozens of people who lined up before dawn to join the celebratory scene.
“It’s pretty amazing, exciting, and if I get pulled over on the way home and I’m ever asked if I have any drugs in the car, now I’m allowed to say only this,” Barrows said, holding up the canister of marijuana flower he had just purchased. Possession of cannabis is legal now in New Jersey, though driving under the influence is still prohibited.
Barrows, 60, joined a steady stream of other novelty seekers, longtime marijuana users and medical patients at RISE in Bloomfield, near the state’s biggest city, Newark, and not far from New York City.
With soul music blaring, free doughnuts in the parking lot and a balloon arch at the entrance, New Jersey’s cannabis kickoff for people 21 and older had the feel of a fair more than a store opening.
Hagan Seeley, 23, said he had just found out a day earlier that recreational sales were starting and decided to see what the scene looked like. He was impressed with the venue, decorated with an old train station-style tote board and long wooden tables featuring products under glass globes.
“It feels right. It feels safe. It feels like everything you’d want it to be rather than anything you could get anywhere else,” Seeley said.
The start of the recreational market comes a week after Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy announced that state regulators had cleared the way for recreational sales at seven “alternative treatment centers” that had already offered medical cannabis. The seven centers operate 13 facilities across the state.
New Jersey is among 18 states, plus the District of Columbia, with legalized recreational marijuana markets. Thirty-seven states, including New Jersey, have legalized medical marijuana.
New Jersey is first among its closest neighbors to begin recreational sales.
New York is moving forward with a recreational market but sales are not expected to start until the end of the year, state officials have said.
Neighboring Pennsylvania has medical cannabis but not recreational. Some cities, including Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, passed ordinances to decriminalize marijuana or make it a low law enforcement priority.
Legislation to permit recreational marijuana in Delaware was defeated in March.
Ben Kovler, chairman and CEO of Green Thumb Industries, which operates the Bloomfield dispensary, was at the opening Thursday. He said he expects demand to grow since news of the start of sales had only been known by the public for a week.
“It’s a moment in time in American history where prohibition 2.0 is lifted,” he said in an interview before the opening.
To get regulatory approval, the facilities told regulators they would not interrupt access for medical marijuana patients.
Ziad Ghanem, the president and chief operating officer of TerrAscend, which operates centers in Maplewood and Philipsburg, said to accommodate patients, the centers would have a “narrower menu” to start for recreational users.
The centers also are required to meet social equity standards, such as providing technical knowledge to new marijuana businesses, especially social equity applicants — those located in economically struggling parts of the state or people who have had cannabis-related offenses.
New Jersey’s tax revenues are expected to climb, but it’s not clear by how much. Murphy’s fiscal year 2023 budget is pending before the Democrat-led Legislature and estimates revenues of just $19 million in a nearly $49 billion budget. In 2019, as legalization of recreational marijuana was still just pending before voters, he had estimated about $60 million in revenue.
Legislation governing the recreational market calls for the 6.625% sales tax to apply, with 70% of the proceeds going to areas disproportionately affected by marijuana-related arrests. Black residents were likelier — up to three times as much — to face marijuana charges than white residents. Towns can also levy a tax of up to 2%.
In a memo to law enforcement officers across the state, acting Attorney General Matt Platkin reminded police that unregulated marijuana continues to be an illegal substance.
State regulators say dispensaries are allowed to sell up to the equivalent of 1 ounce of cannabis, which means an ounce of dried flower, or 5 grams of concentrate or 1,000 milligrams of edibles, like gummies. Perishable items like cookies and brownies are not available. | https://cw33.com/news/people-greet-opening-day-of-new-jerseys-recreational-marijuana-sales/ | 2022-04-21T19:41:16Z |
Eric Healy and Jake Darley join Stratifyd's executive team to accelerate company growth and market position.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. , Sept. 7, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Stratifyd – a leading customer experience analytics and insights platform – announced today that Toronto-based investment firm Georgian expanded its investment in the company leading a $10M Series B3 funding round. Georgian's most recent investment enables Stratifyd to accelerate its product roadmap, hire key personnel and expand its presence in emerging vertical markets.
To support Stratifyd's high-growth objectives, the company recently added Eric Healy and Jake Darley to its executive team, as Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, respectively. Healy and Darley each bring decades of experience working across leading enterprise software, marketing and technology services organizations.
Healy joins Stratifyd from Aura, a General Catalyst and Warburg Pincus-backed cybersecurity organization, where he worked in both general management and sales leadership roles. Eric's prior experience includes a role as President & Board Member of HGGC-backed, MyWebGrocer. He also served as Chief Executive Officer of Publicis-Groupe owned Rosetta, where he was charged with enhancing Rosetta's position as a leading customer engagement and services firm, resulting in placement as an AdAge A-List agency.
Darley joins Stratifyd from Qualtrics, where he most recently served as COO for North American Enterprise Sales within EmployeeXM. Darley also built and led the Global Deal Operations organization for Revenue Operations at Qualtrics; his responsibilities spanned Deal Desk, Prescriptive Pricing & Deal Strategy, RFI/RFP Proposal Development, ROI Analysis and Competitive Intelligence. Prior to Qualtrics, Darley was employed by enterprise work management leader, Adobe Workfront as both Director of Financial Planning & Analysis and Director of Finance.
In their respective roles, Healy will define and communicate a compelling vision and growth strategy for Stratifyd's business, allowing the company to capitalize on opportunities as a leader in the Customer Experience (CX) software space; Darley will focus on creating operational efficiencies and financial best practices required to accelerate Stratifyd's growth.
"Stratifyd is at a key phase in the company's growth and bringing in seasoned executives is critical to optimizing vertical expansion, customer satisfaction, and overall scalability," said Simon Chong, co-founder and lead investor at Georgian. "Eric and Jake are proven executives who have shaped growing companies into market leaders. We're confident that their leadership, combined with the appetite for Stratifyd's best-in-class products, will propel Stratifyd in the customer experience market."
"In an age of high customer churn rates, it's undeniable that improvements to the customer experience have a significant impact on business success; 84% of companies that focus on CX investments experience a corresponding increase in revenue," said Eric Healy, Stratifyd's Chief Executive Officer. "Stratifyd best-in-class products and solution provide data analytics and capabilities that drive improved customer experiences across myriad industries. I look forward to working with the Board and the entire Stratifyd team to not only accelerate our growth but our overall impact in this market."
Founded in 2015, Charlotte-based Stratifyd puts the power of data science into the hands of business users through its experience analytics and insights platform. The company's Smart AI™ experience and insights platform is designed to help today's businesses that lack the time and resources to quickly uncover insights and drive value from experience, operational, and behavioral data. Herein, Stratifyd's vendor-neutral approach connects experience, behavioral, and operational data to remove data blind spots, uncover prescriptive insights, and enable smarter decisions. Stratifyd is trusted by startups, enterprise, and Fortune 500 companies to improve experiences across channels, drive efficiencies, and increase employee and customer loyalty. To learn more about the company's no-code approach to AI, visit www.stratifyd.com.
Georgian invests in high growth companies across North America that harness the power of data and trust. Based in Toronto, Georgian's team brings together software entrepreneurs, machine learning experts, experienced operators and investment professionals. To learn more about Georgian, please contact info@georgian.io or visit us at www.georgian.io
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SOURCE Stratifyd | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/09/07/stratifyd-secures-10m-series-b3-funding-round-led-by-georgian-announces-new-chief-executive-officer-chief-financial-officer/ | 2022-09-07T16:34:46Z |
Did you lose money on investments in Waste Management? If so, please visit Waste Management, Inc. Class Action Lawsuit or contact Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or pallocco@bernlieb.com to discuss your rights.
NEW YORK, July 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Bernstein Liebhard LLP, a nationally acclaimed investor rights law firm, reminds investors of the deadline to file a lead plaintiff motion in a securities class action lawsuit that has been filed on behalf of investors who purchased certain redeemable senior notes (the "Notes") of Waste Management, Inc. ("WM" or the "Company") (NYSE: WM) between February 13, 2020 and June 23, 2020, inclusive (the "Class Period"). The Notes include the following senior redeemable notes issued by WM in May 2019: (i) 2.95% Senior Notes due 2024; (ii) 3.20% Senior Notes due 2026; (iii) 3.45% Senior Notes due 2029; and (iv) 4.00% Senior Notes due 2039. The lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York and alleges violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
On April 14, 2019, WM entered into an agreement and plan of merger (the "Merger") to acquire Advanced Disposal Systems, Inc. ("ADS") for $4.9 billion, or $33.15 per share. The Merger was conditioned upon an ADS shareholder vote and obtaining antitrust clearance from regulators, including the U.S. Department of Justice ("DOJ").
On October 25, 2019, WM, ADS, and the DOJ entered into a timing agreement that provided for a minimum 70-day settlement period during which the parties would attempt to reach an agreement on DOJ approval for the Merger, which included DOJ approval of the amount of WM's asset divestures. Unbeknownst to investors, during this process the DOJ informed WM that its agreement to divest $200 million in revenue-producing assets to address antitrust concerns would be insufficient for regulatory approval. The DOJ concluded that the combination of WM and ADS would, without divestures significantly in excess of $200 million, cause harm to municipal solid waste disposal in 24 geographic markets across 8 states, and cause harm to small container commercial waste collection in 33 geographic markets located in 6 states.
Plaintiff alleges that Defendants made materially false and misleading statements throughout the Class Period, including omitting material facts relating to: (i) the DOJ's indication to WM that it would require WM to divest significantly more than $200 million; and (ii) the impact of the DOJ's indication on the completion of the Merger and the redemption of the Notes.
On June 24, 2020, WM disclosed that the Company and ADS had revised the terms of the Merger and that WM needed to divest substantially more assets than previously disclosed to receive DOJ approval for the deal. Under the revised Merger terms, WM agreed to purchase ADS for $4.6 billion, or $30.30 per share, thereby reducing WM's acquisition cost by approximately $300 million to $4.6 billion. In addition, WM and ADS had agreed to sell $835 million worth of assets in an attempt to satisfy antitrust regulators, which assets were responsible for generating approximately $345 million in 2019 revenue. WM also revealed that the deal was now not expected to close until "the end of the third quarter of 2020" – six months later than had been represented by defendants at the start of the Class Period and, critically, after the end date which triggered the redemption feature of the Notes.
On this news, the prices of the Notes fell significantly. For example, the 3.45% Notes fell from 109% on June 23, 2020 to just 103% of par on June 24, 2020.
If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than August 8, 2022. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as lead plaintiff. If you choose to take no action, you may remain an absent class member.
If you purchased the Notes, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit Waste Management, Inc. Class Action Lawsuit or contact Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or pallocco@bernlieb.com.
Since 1993, Bernstein Liebhard LLP has recovered over $3.5 billion for its clients. In addition to representing individual investors, the Firm has been retained by some of the largest public and private pension funds in the country to monitor their assets and pursue litigation on their behalf. As a result of its success litigating hundreds of lawsuits and class actions, the Firm has been named to The National Law Journal's "Plaintiffs' Hot List" thirteen times and listed in The Legal 500 for ten consecutive years.
ATTORNEY ADVERTISING. © 2022 Bernstein Liebhard LLP. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Bernstein Liebhard LLP, 10 East 40th Street, New York, New York 10016, (212) 779-1414. Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.
Contact Information:
Peter Allocco
Bernstein Liebhard LLP
https://www.bernlieb.com
(212) 951-2030
pallocco@bernlieb.com
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SOURCE Bernstein Liebhard LLP | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/08/waste-management-inc-nyse-wm-class-action-alert-bernstein-liebhard-llp-reminds-investors-deadline-file-lead-plaintiff-motion-securities-class-action-lawsuit-against-waste-management-inc-nyse-wm/ | 2022-07-09T00:53:34Z |
NEW YORK, June 29, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Vestar Capital Partners, a leading U.S. middle-market private equity firm, today announced the sale of Mercury Healthcare, the technology and data analytics company, to WebMD Health Corp, an Internet Brands company and a leader in health information services for consumers, physicians and other healthcare professionals. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
"Vestar is proud to have supported the transformation of Healthgrades and Mercury over the last decade as they have become true leaders in consumer and b2b healthcare engagement," said Norm Alpert, Founding Partner, Co-President and head of Healthcare at Vestar. "Vestar targets innovative companies at the forefront of enabling patients, providers, and payers to make better informed decisions that improve the cost and quality of care. We recognize the importance of data and analytics to drive positive outcomes, and we remain committed to investing in market-leading companies at the intersection of healthcare and technology."
The combination of WebMD and Mercury Healthcare will help transform the patient experience by supporting more efficient and effective communication with patients and caregivers.
"This acquisition is the culmination of Mercury Healthcare's 30-year legacy of supporting healthcare providers in creating lasting consumer and patient relationships," said Jovan Willford, CEO, Mercury Healthcare. "Together, the companies will have unmatched scale, reach and potential in delivering engagement tools that contribute to healthier communities."
Mercury Healthcare is a technology and data analytics company that empowers healthcare organizations to engage consumers and optimize provider relationships to accelerate growth. Customers benefit from 30 years' experience applying data analytics to drive intelligent engagement and enable personalized healthcare journeys. Mercury Healthcare helps healthcare organizations create seamless consumer experiences and improve outcomes to build healthier communities. For more information, please visit www.mercuryhealthcare.com.
Vestar Capital Partners is a leading U.S. middle-market private equity firm specializing in management buyouts and growth capital investments. Vestar invests and collaborates with incumbent management teams and private owners to build long-term enterprise value, with a focus on Consumer, Business & Technology Services and Healthcare. Since inception in 1988, Vestar funds have invested $11 billion in 88 companies – as well as more than 200 add-on acquisitions – with a total value of approximately $52 billion. For more information on Vestar, please visit www.vestarcapital.com.
Jennifer Hurson
Lambert
845-507-0571
jhurson@lambert.com
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SOURCE Vestar Capital Partners | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/29/vestar-capital-backed-mercury-healthcare-acquired-by-webmd-health-corp/ | 2022-06-29T18:52:10Z |
NEW YORK, July 15, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- InvestorsObserver issues critical PriceWatch Alerts for PLUG, TLRY, FCEL, RIOT, and HEXO.
To see how InvestorsObserver's proprietary scoring system rates these stocks, view the InvestorsObserver's PriceWatch Alert by selecting the corresponding link.
- PLUG: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-stocks-lp-2/?symbol=PLUG&prnumber=071520226
- TLRY: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-stocks-lp-2/?symbol=TLRY&prnumber=071520226
- FCEL: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-stocks-lp-2/?symbol=FCEL&prnumber=071520226
- RIOT: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-stocks-lp-2/?symbol=RIOT&prnumber=071520226
- HEXO: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-stocks-lp-2/?symbol=HEXO&prnumber=071520226
(Note: You may have to copy this link into your browser then press the [ENTER] key.)
InvestorsObserver's PriceWatch Alerts are based on our proprietary scoring methodology. Each stock is evaluated based on short-term technical, long-term technical and fundamental factors. Each of those scores is then combined into an overall score that determines a stock's overall suitability for investment.
InvestorsObserver provides patented technology to some of the biggest names on Wall Street and creates world-class investing tools for the self-directed investor on Main Street. We have a wide range of tools to help investors make smarter decisions when investing in stocks or options.
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SOURCE InvestorsObserver | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/15/thinking-about-buying-stock-plug-power-tilray-fuelcell-energy-riot-blockchain-or-hexo/ | 2022-07-15T16:38:52Z |
Biden calls Trump ‘MAGA king,’ vows to push GOP contrasts
CHICAGO (AP) — President Joe Biden on Wednesday labeled his predecessor, Donald Trump, “the great MAGA king” and continued sharp criticism against Republicans ahead of midterm elections that could be bruising for Democrats.
“I think it’s important that, as we go forward, you’re gonna hear me talking more about not only what we’ve done, but what they’re trying to do,” the president told an evening Democratic fundraiser crowd of about 40 at a Chicago hotel.
The party that controls the presidency usually loses seats during the next election and, with inflation reaching its highest levels in 40 years, Biden’s party could see its control of Congress wiped out in November. To try to counter that, Biden has in recent days begun decrying “ultra-MAGA” Republicans — a reference to Trump’s “Make America Great Again” campaign slogan.
He told the fundraiser that the Democratic National Committee is already devoting more time and money to promoting the differences between his party and the GOP, adding, “We have to make sure we keep this clear contrast on either side.”
The president also said he has not done enough to promote his administration’s accomplishments, including a $1 trillion, bipartisan infrastructure package approved by Congress last fall.
“One of the things that I think we have to do is not just talk about what we’ve done — we don’t do that enough and that’s my fault,” he said.
But Biden also added, “Because of how outrageous some of the things that former President Trump has done and said, I think we found ourselves in the position where it was almost like, ‘How could that happen?’ ‘How could that be?’”
When an attendee’s cell phone rang, the president joked: “I know that’s Trump calling. He always does that.”
His remarks at the fundraiser followed a speech earlier Thursday in which Biden offered a new nickname for Trump, who himself enjoys bestowing often unflattering monikers on political opponents.
“Under my predecessor — the great MAGA king — the deficit increased every single year he was president,” he told the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers conference, which was also being held in Chicago. “The first year of my presidency, the first year, I reduced the deficit.”
During the conference and fundraiser, Biden also repeated criticism he’s offered lately of Republican Florida Sen. Rick Scott’s 11-point plan. It was released in February and suggests imposing a modest tax increase on many of the lowest-paid Americans, while opening the door for cutting Social Security and Medicare.
“I call it the ultra-MAGA plan, Make America Great Again plan,” Biden told the union conference. At the fundraiser he struck a similar note, saying, “I think we have to point out how radical it is ... so people are reminded what’s at stake here.”
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.kxii.com/2022/05/12/biden-calls-trump-maga-king-vows-push-gop-contrasts/ | 2022-05-12T02:09:40Z |
Company wins four U.S. Customer Experience Awards across all its nomination categories for customer experience, strategy, and use of data-driven insights and feedback
DOWNERS GROVE, Ill., July 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Univar Solutions Inc. (NYSE: UNVR) ("Univar Solutions" or "the Company"), a leading global solutions provider to users of specialty ingredients and chemicals, today announced the Company received four awards in the first-ever U.S. Customer Experience Awards (USCXA™) for 2022. USCXA™, hosted by Awards International and sponsored by the Customer Experience Professionals Association, celebrate America's most outstanding customer experience initiatives and honors companies who have demonstrated exemplary service and customer centricity.
Univar Solutions was recognized in all its nomination categories among the more than 50 U.S. companies that competed. The Company won Gold Awards for Best Measurement in Customer Experience (over 5,000 employees), Best Use of Insight & Feedback, and B2B Customer Experience, in addition to a Silver Award for Best Customer Experience Strategy. This recognition validates Univar Solutions' ongoing dedication to providing its customers with premier services to meet their chemical distribution needs.
"I am thrilled at this recognition especially as putting the customer at the centre of all we do has been a core plank of our growth strategy," said David Jukes, President and CEO at Univar Solutions.
"The importance of the customer experience goes hand-in-hand with our ability to keep our global communities healthy, fed, clean, and safe, while growing together," said Sam Wegman, vice president of customer experience at Univar Solutions. "Through our voice of customer program, led by Lee Kemp, senior director of customer experience, we leverage direct feedback from our customers and our best-in-class advanced analytics team, to adjust our processes and ensure we give them what they want – it's all about transparency, and leveraging feedback and data to drive improvements. I want to thank our teams for their dedication and focus, which have enabled this important recognition, and we look forward to continuing to deliver for our customers as a trusted partner for their evolving formulation and distribution needs."
About Univar Solutions
Univar Solutions (NYSE: UNVR) is a leading global commodity and specialty chemical and ingredient distributor representing a premier portfolio from the world's leading producers. With the industry's largest private transportation fleet and technical sales force, unparalleled logistics know-how, deep market and regulatory knowledge, formulation and recipe development, and leading digital tools, the Company is well-positioned to offer tailored solutions and value-added services to a wide range of markets, industries, and applications. While fulfilling its purpose to help keep communities healthy, fed, clean and safe, Univar Solutions is committed to helping customers and suppliers innovate and focus on Growing Together. Learn more at univarsolutions.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release includes certain statements relating to future events and our intentions, beliefs, expectations, and predictions for the future, which 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, as amended. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which may be beyond the Company's control. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations and assumptions. A detailed discussion of these factors and uncertainties is contained in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Potential factors that could affect such forward-looking statements include, among others: the ultimate geographic spread of the COVID-19 pandemic; the duration and severity of the COVID-19 pandemic; actions that may be taken by governmental authorities to address or otherwise mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic; the potential negative impacts of COVID-19 on the global economy and our customers and suppliers; the overall impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business, results of operations and financial condition; other fluctuations in general economic conditions, particularly in industrial production and the demands of our customers; significant changes in the business strategies of producers or in the operations of our customers; increased competitive pressures, including as a result of competitor consolidation; significant changes in the pricing, demand and availability of chemicals; our levels of indebtedness, the restrictions imposed by our debt instruments, and our ability to obtain additional financing when needed; the broad spectrum of laws and regulations that we are subject to, including extensive environmental, health and safety laws and regulations; an inability to integrate the business and systems of companies we acquire, including of Nexeo Solutions, Inc., or to realize the anticipated benefits of such acquisitions; potential business disruptions and security breaches, including cybersecurity incidents; an inability to generate sufficient working capital; increases in transportation and fuel costs and changes in our relationship with third party providers; accidents, safety failures, environmental damage, product quality and liability issues and recalls; major or systemic delivery failures involving our distribution network or the products we carry; operational risks for which we may not be adequately insured; ongoing litigation and other legal and regulatory risks; challenges associated with international operations; exposure to interest rate and currency fluctuations; potential impairment of goodwill; liabilities associated with acquisitions, ventures and strategic investments; negative developments affecting our pension plans and multi-employer pensions; labor disruptions associated with the unionized portion of our workforce; and the other factors described in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We caution you that the forward-looking information presented in this press release is not a guarantee of future events or results, and that actual events or results may differ materially from those made in or suggested by the forward-looking information contained in this press release. In addition, forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may," "plan," "seek, "will," "expect," "intend," "estimate," "anticipate," "believe" or "continue" or the negative thereof or variations thereon or similar terminology. Any forward-looking information presented herein is made only as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information to reflect changes in assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events, or otherwise, except as required by law.
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SOURCE Univar Solutions Inc. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/18/univar-solutions-receives-top-recognition-uscx-awards-exceptional-customer-experience/ | 2022-07-18T20:55:57Z |
Steve Stricker opens with 65 to take Regions Tradition lead
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) — Steve Stricker shot a 7-under 65 on Thursday to take a two-stroke lead over Miguel Angel Jimenez and Wes Short Jr. after the opening round of the Regions Tradition, the first of five PGA Tour Champions majors. Stricker, the 2019 champion, closed his bogey-free round with a birdie on No. 18 at Greystone Golf & Country Club. Jimenez, the 2018 winner, started on the 10th tee and broke out of a 10-player logjam at 4 under with a birdie on No. 8. Short then joined him at 67 with a closing birdie. Stricker lost a playoff last year to Alex Cejka and had a health scare that sidelined him for six months. He was hospitalized for nearly two weeks and dropped 25 pounds. | https://localnews8.com/sports/ap-national-sports/2022/05/12/steve-stricker-opens-with-65-to-take-regions-tradition-lead/ | 2022-05-12T23:07:35Z |
DALLAS (KDAF) — We know you probably don’t want to hear this but experts say it’s not going to get cooler this Wednesday in North Texas.
According to the National Weather Service in Fort Worth, highs will be in the upper 90s with temperatures getting to around 101-102.
“Above normal temperatures will continue today with highs warming into the upper 90s to near 101 to 102 degrees. Heat index values will range from 98 to 105 degrees across the region. Expect southerly to southeasterly winds around 5 to 10 mph,” National Weather Service officials said on Twitter. | https://cw33.com/news/local/above-normal-temperatures-expected-for-wednesday-in-north-texas/ | 2022-06-22T19:40:55Z |
The gas station pump is now a major front in the 2022 elections in Georgia. Ross Williams/Georgia Recorder
ATLANTA -- Many Georgians hitting the road for the Fourth of July travel season saw a familiar face at the gas station as Democratic gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams smiled from screens on more than 5,500 gas pumps across the state.
Abrams’ campaign purchased ads on the pumps in an attempt to defang Gov. Brian Kemp’s messaging on high gas prices.
“Georgians are struggling with rising costs, but one candidate for governor has a plan to help,” a male voice says in the ad as footage plays of Abrams speaking with voters. “Stacey Abrams says no to tax increases, but she says that’s not enough. She’s also calling to suspend the gas tax through the end of 2022 to keep more money in your pocket.”
On March 18, Kemp signed a bill suspending the state’s fuel tax through May 31. He has since renewed it several times, most recently on July 1, and it is set to expire Aug. 13 unless renewed again. Abrams says Kemp should give Georgians the certainty of knowing the tax will be suspended at least through the end of the year.
Georgia’s gas tax is 29.1 cents per gallon for gasoline and 32.6 cents per gallon for diesel.
“In March, I took decisive action to help those impacted by high prices at the pump,” Kemp said in a statement following the latest renewal. “To provide actual relief to Georgians, I am once again extending the supply chain state of emergency and suspending our state motor fuel tax.”
Kemp is likely relishing the opportunity to thumb his nose at national Democrats each month, while taking steps he can argue will keep dollars in Georgians’ pockets, said University of Georgia political science professor Charles Bullock.
“What Republicans very much want to talk about right now would be the cost of groceries, cost of gas, prices in general,” he said. “What they don’t particularly want to talk about, at least in this state, would be things like abortion rights or Democratic allegations of voter suppression. Those are the kinds of issues the Democrats want to talk about, along with the expansion of Medicaid. So the inflation elements, Republicans think, will work for them, and they will link both Abrams, but also Warnock, to the Democratic administration, in essence, saying, ‘If you want prices to stabilize, you don’t want to see continued inflation, you need to make sure that Republicans are in control of politics.’”
President Biden’s disapproval rating is a historically dismal 56.3%, worse than any other modern president, according to data from FiveThirtyEight.
An ABC News/Ipsos poll found that 32% of Americans listed the economy, unemployment and jobs as their top issue, more than three times more than the second-highest priority, crime and corruption. At the same time, pollsters found only 37% of respondents approve of Biden’s handling of the economy.
Republican Senate nominee Herschel Walker is taking a similar tack to Kemp in his campaign against Democratic Sen. Raphael Warnock, seeking to tie the senator to the unpopular president.
In recent statements, Walker has blamed Warnock for voting against the Keystone XL pipeline and for allowing oil to be shipped overseas while prices are high in the U.S.
“Raphael Warnock voted four times to cancel the Keystone XL Pipeline, and Joe Biden just said that we need to deal with these high prices ‘as long as it takes,’” Walker said in a statement Tuesday. “As Sen. Warnock continues to enable Joe Biden, I have one question for him: Are you willing to stand up to the extreme base of your party and support expanded domestic drilling including fracking and re-opening the Keystone XL Pipeline?”
Warnock has pushed measures he says will help offset inflation for Georgians — including a suspension of the 18-cent federal gas tax, an idea now supported by Biden, but not by other elected Democrats — and price caps on drugs for seniors and insulin users.
Economists tend to point to a number of factors to explain recent high pump prices, including U.S. energy policy, but also geopolitical factors like the war in Ukraine and economic considerations like worldwide consumption increasing due to post-pandemic demand after production shrank during the height of the pandemic.
Presidents have little direct influence over pump prices, and senators and governors have even less, but that may not matter to voters, Bullock said.
“Most voters don’t have a bachelor’s degree, much less a doctorate in economics,” he said. “So the average voter can feel the pain, the pinching shoe, as it were, but not know exactly how to correct it. When the team is doing badly, what do you do? You fire the coach. Maybe there are lots of other reasons why the team is doing badly. But it’s a very dramatic thing to do, blame the current administration and put in the other team.” | https://www.albanyherald.com/news/gas-price-politics-inflation-fuel-georgia-campaigns-for-governor-senate/article_ed8913a4-ff7e-11ec-86b7-431a91943d09.html | 2022-07-09T13:20:35Z |
HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — A former opioid manufacturer has agreed in principle to pay up to $2.4 billion in a deal with a dozen states over its marketing and product safety practices, state attorneys general announced Friday.
The company, Allergan, is now part of AbbVie but sold its generics division Actavis, including its opioid products, to Teva Pharmaceuticals six years ago. Under the settlement, payments will be made to state and local governments, Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro said.
The agreement means pharma companies have consented to pay more than $40 billion to settle opioid crisis claims regarding manufacturers and distributors, The Associated Press has found.
The agreement came days after a similar, $4.3 billion agreement was reached with Teva Pharmaceuticals.
Teva spokesperson Kelley Dougherty declined comment.
Shapiro said the settlement involved claims that Allergan, which produced Norco and Kadian brand generic opioids, downplayed the risk of addiction in marketing and did not act sufficiently to prevent the drugs from being improperly diverted.
“No amount of money will bring back the lives we lost, but today’s agreement will help ensure we can fund the programs Pennsylvania counties need for our communities to recover from this crisis,” Shapiro said in a statement.
Negotiations with Allergan and Teva continue over their business practices and transparency, Shapiro’s office said.
It’s a global agreement that involves California, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, and Wisconsin. Other states will be able to sign on, Shapiro spokeswoman Jacklin Rhoads said. New York settled with Allergan in December.
The opioid addiction and overdose epidemic has been linked to more than 500,000 deaths in the U.S. over the last two decades.
North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein said Friday that over 2020, nine people in his state died daily from overdoses.
“There is no amount of money that could ever repair that kind of loss, but there is hope in recovery — and thanks to our ongoing work to hold these drug companies accountable, people across this state are getting the treatment and support they need to get healthy,” Stein said.
Drugmaker Johnson & Johnson finalized a $5 billion settlement earlier this year. National drug distribution firms AmerisourceBergen, Cardinal Health and McKesson finalized one worth $21 billion. OxyContin maker Purdue Pharma is trying to persuade a court to let it move ahead with a deal that could include up to $6 billion from members of the Sackler family.
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Associated Press writer Hannah Schoenbaum in Raleigh, North Carolina, contributed to this report. | https://cw33.com/news/u-s-news/ap-us-headlines/states-reach-deal-over-marketing-safety-of-generic-opioids/ | 2022-07-30T17:49:31Z |
Abortion draft ruling ratchets up Florida debate
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (News Service of Florida) — A leaked U.S. Supreme Court draft opinion that would overturn the landmark Roe v. Wade abortion decision ignited a sense of urgency Tuesday among Florida Democrats while drawing praise from Republicans.
Authored by Justice Samuel Alito, Jr. and supported by other members of the conservative majority of the Supreme Court, the draft opinion was reported Monday night by Politico. Chief Justice John Roberts on Tuesday confirmed that the leaked document was authentic.
The 98-page draft, if it comes to fruition, would rescind the 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling and allow states to make their own decisions on abortion. However, a news release that accompanied Roberts’ statement Tuesday said the draft “does not represent a decision by the court or the final position” of any of its members.
The draft was made public just shy of two months before a new Florida law will go into effect prohibiting most abortions past 15 weeks of pregnancy. Gov. Ron DeSantis last month signed the measure, which will take effect July 1. Roe v. Wade generally has allowed women to have abortions until about 24 weeks of pregnancy.
Responding to the U.S. Supreme Court draft opinion Tuesday, DeSantis touted the new state abortion law as “the strongest that Florida has seen in decades” and said the state is prepared to defend it from lawsuits challenging its constitutionality.
“We think we’re going to win there, but that is going to be something that we have to do. At the end of the day, it’s a mistake to read the federal Constitution to completely prohibit any pro-life protections. That’s not consistent with the text history structure. I don’t know if that (Supreme Court) opinion is going to be the actual opinion, Roberts said that’s not going to be … final, so who knows what’s going on behind the scenes,” DeSantis said during a news conference in Fort Myers Beach.
But state House Speaker Chris Sprowls, R-Palm Harbor, gave a more emphatic endorsement of the draft opinion.
“I have long believed Roe v. Wade represents an abuse of power to manufacture law by judicial fiat. I eagerly await the official & final opinion issued by the Court. The leak however, is a stunning breach of trust & lack of honor by the individual responsible,” Sprowls wrote in a tweet.
Meanwhile, Democrats braced for what they called a “raid on women’s rights” and quickly organized protests across the state.
“We are walking into a post-Roe world. This is the reality that exists for my daughter that never existed for me. It is a very dangerous world that we are living in,” state Senate Minority Leader Lauren Book, D-Plantation, said.
Book told The News Service of Florida that Democrats, who are heavily outnumbered in the Legislature, will need voters to rally in support of candidates during the November elections to combat further restrictions to abortion access.
“People need to go and vote. We need the numbers. The reality is, and I’ve gotten a lot of questions today about … will the governor add a further restriction on abortion in a special (legislative) session. We know that the governor can do anything he wants, and the Republican-driven Legislature will follow suit and do whatever it is he is asking for,” Book said.
DeSantis has called a special session starting May 23 to address the state’s beleaguered property-insurance system.
Rep. Kelly Skidmore, D-Boca Raton, decried the potential Supreme Court ruling’s effect on other Republican-led states that have abortion laws that would be triggered by a decision overturning Roe v. Wade.
“Immediately, about 25 states will ban abortion, they have trigger laws in place. So, within days, within hours of the Supreme Court ruling, abortion will be banned in nearly half the United States of America,” Skidmore said.
Promising that “the fight is just beginning,” Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried, a Democrat running for governor this year, held a rally in Miami to try to energize potential voters. U.S. Rep. Charlie Crist, another Democrat running for governor, said in a statement that the issue will be “front and center” in the gubernatorial race.
The Florida Alliance of Planned Parenthood Affiliates advertised a rally to be held Tuesday afternoon outside the Florida Supreme Court.
“We are devastated, we are furious, and we will fight back. This draft opinion is outrageous, and unprecedented, but it is not final. Abortion is still legal in Florida. As of today, it remains your constitutional right,” Stephanie Fraim, president of Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida said in a statement.
But groups that oppose abortion cheered the potential decision.
“The state has a compelling interest in protecting human life that is vulnerable, especially at that age. This is a huge day for those of us who have worked almost all of our lives to see this moment happen,” John Stemberger, president of the Florida Family Policy Council, said.
DeSantis, who went to law school at Harvard, focused much of his remarks Tuesday on the leaking of the draft opinion, characterizing it as an act of political intimidation. The draft is part of a case about a Mississippi law, similar to the new Florida law, that would prevent abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy.
“To have that leak out the way it did was really unprecedented. I think it was really an attack on a lot of the justices. I think it was an intentional thing to try to whip up a lot of the public and to try to make it very political,” DeSantis said.
Roberts called the leak a “singular and egregious breach” of trust that the court has with employees to keep such internal communications confidential.
“To the extent this betrayal of the confidences of the court was intended to undermine the integrity of our operations, it will not succeed. The work of the court will not be affected in any way,” Roberts said in a statement.
Copyright 2022 WWSB. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/05/04/abortion-draft-ruling-ratchets-up-florida-debate/ | 2022-05-04T20:13:56Z |
Their mom was killed in Uvalde, then their dad died of a heart attack — now people are donating millions for their family
By Zoe Sottile, CNN
An online fundraiser for the children of Irma Garcia, a beloved schoolteacher killed in the Uvalde, Texas, school shooting, and Joe Garcia, her husband, who died of a heart attack days later, has raised more than $2.5 million.
“Irma was a wife, a mother of 4, a cousin, a sister a daughter, an aunt and a wonderful person. She would literally do anything for anybody……no questions asked,” Debra Austin, her cousin, wrote on the GoFundMe campaign she created. “She loved her classroom kids and died trying to protect them.”
The campaign’s initial goal was $10,000. “100% of the proceeds will go to the Garcia family for various expenses,” Austin said.
As of Sunday afternoon, 46,400 donations were made, totaling $2,593,860.
John Martinez, Irma Garcia’s nephew, also started a GoFundMe for the deceased couple’s family, which raised over $500,000 and was later combined with Austin’s fundraiser.
Garcia had worked as a teacher for 23 years, according to her school biography page. She was killed on Tuesday along with her colleague, Eva Mireles, and 19 children, by an 18-year-old gunman. It was the country’s deadliest school shooting in nearly 10 years.
Her husband Joe died two days later of a fatal heart attack, which the couple’s family has attributed to a broken heart.
The pair were “high school sweethearts,” Martinez said in his fundraiser.
“I truly believe Joe died of a broken heart and losing the love of his life of more than 25 years was too much to bear,” Austin wrote in an update to her fundraiser after Joe’s death.
They leave behind four children, according to Irma Garcia’s school biography: Cristian, Jose, Lyliana, and Alysandra.
Their children attended mass at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Uvalde on Thursday night, according to CNN affiliate WFAA.
“They were churchgoing people, always willing to help, always seeing what they could do in the community — not just their children,” Father Eduardo Morales, the family’s pastor, told WFAA. “And I hope that we remember how giving they were.”
His words echo Austin’s description of the couple.
“Joe and Irma were amazing people and two of the most loving parents we as a family have ever known. They were so proud of all their kids,” Austin said. “They are loved and missed beyond what words can explain. Thank you again from the entire family.”
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved. | https://localnews8.com/news/national-world/cnn-national/2022/05/29/their-mom-was-killed-in-uvalde-then-their-dad-died-of-a-heart-attack-now-people-are-donating-millions-for-their-family/ | 2022-05-29T19:57:56Z |
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden on Wednesday called on Congress to suspend federal gasoline and diesel taxes for three months — an election-year move meant to ease financial pressures that was greeted with doubts by many lawmakers.
The Democratic president also called on states to suspend their own gas taxes or provide similar relief, and he delivered a public critique of the energy industry for prioritizing profits over production. It would take action by lawmakers in Washington and in statehouses across the country to actually bring relief to consumers.
“It doesn’t reduce all the pain but it will be a big help,” Biden said, using the bully pulpit when his administration believes it has run out of direct levers to address soaring gas prices. “I’m doing my part. I want Congress, states and industry to do their part as well.”
At issue is the 18.4 cents-a-gallon federal tax on gas and the 24.4 cents-a-gallon federal tax on diesel fuel. If the gas savings were fully passed along to consumers, people would save roughly 3.6% at the pump when prices are averaging about $5 a gallon nationwide.
Biden’s push faces uphill odds in Congress, which must act in order to suspend the tax, and where many lawmakers, including some in his own party, have expressed reservations. Even many economists view the idea of a gas tax holiday with skepticism.
Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi offered a noncommittal response to Biden’s proposal, saying she would look to see if there was support for it in Congress.
“We will see where the consensus lies on a path forward for the president’s proposal in the House and the Senate,” Pelosi said.
Unlikely to pass a gas tax holiday through the 50-50 Senate, Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York said Wednesday that Democrats will focus instead on their bill to crack down on oil companies “manipulating the market” for higher prices and profits. “We’re going to focus on that issue,” Schumer said.
In his speech, Biden tied higher energy prices to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and said, “defending freedom, defending democracy was not going to go without cost for the American people and the rest of the free world.” The president noted that lawmakers backed sanctions against Russia and aiding Ukraine despite the risks of inflation from resulting energy and food shortages.
Democrats, Republicans and independents in Congress chose to support Ukraine, “knowing full well the cost,” he said.
“So for all those Republicans in Congress criticizing me today for high gas prices in America: Are you now saying you were wrong to support Ukraine?” Biden said. “Are you saying that we would rather have lower gas prices in America than (Russian President Vladimir) Putin’s iron fist in Europe? I don’t believe that. ”
The president said “states are now in a strong position to be able to afford to take some of these actions,” thanks to federal support from the 2021 COVID-19 relief bill. But there is no guarantee that states will tap into their budgets to suspend their taxes on gas or to deliver rebates to consumers, as Biden is requesting.
Barack Obama, during the 2008 presidential campaign, called the idea of a gas tax holiday a “gimmick” that allowed politicians to “say that they did something.” He also warned that oil companies could offset the tax relief by increasing their prices.
The administration is saying that gas tax suspensions at the federal and state levels as well as energy companies pouring their profits into production and refining capacity could cut gas prices by $1 a gallon.
High gas prices pose a fundamental threat to Biden’s electoral and policy ambitions. They’ve caused confidence in the economy to slump to lows that bode poorly for defending Democratic control of the House and the Senate in November.
Biden’s past efforts to cut gas prices — including the release of oil from the U.S. strategic reserve and greater ethanol blending this summer — have not delivered savings at the pump, a risk that carries over to the idea of a gas tax holiday.
The president can do remarkably little to fix prices that are set by global markets, profit-driven companies, consumer demand and aftershocks from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the embargoes that followed. The underlying problem is a shortage of oil and refineries that produce gas, a challenge a tax holiday cannot necessarily fix.
Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s Analytics, estimated that the majority of the 8.6% inflation seen over the past 12 months in the U.S. comes from higher commodity prices due to Russia’s invasion and continued disruptions from the coronavirus.
“In the immediate near term, it is critical to stem the increase in oil prices,” Zandi said last week, suggesting that Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and a nuclear deal with Iran could help to boost supplies and lower prices. Republican lawmakers have tried to shift more blame to Biden, saying he created a hostile environment for domestic oil producers, causing their output to stay below pre-pandemic levels.
Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell mocked the gas tax holiday as an “ineffective stunt” in a Wednesday floor speech. “This ineffective administration’s big new idea is a silly proposal that senior members of their own party have already shot down well in advance,” he said.
Rep. Peter DeFazio, the Democratic chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, said he would not support suspending the gas tax. “I’m going to be working against it. I have the largest committee in Congress, so we’ll see.”
DeFazio said a better course would be to tax oil companies on “windfall profits.”
Administration officials said the $10 billion cost of the gas tax holiday would be paid for and the Highway Trust Fund kept whole, even though the gas taxes make up a substantial source of revenue for the fund. The officials did not specify any new revenue sources.
The president has also called on energy companies to accept lower profit margins to increase oil production and refining capacity for gasoline.
This has increased tensions with oil producers: Biden has judged the companies to be making “more money than God.” That kicked off a chain of events in which the head of Chevron, Michael Wirth, sent a letter to the White House saying that the administration “has largely sought to criticize, and at times vilify, our industry.”
Asked about the letter, Biden said of Wirth: “He’s mildly sensitive. I didn’t know they’d get their feelings hurt that quickly.”
Energy companies are scheduled to meet Thursday with Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm to discuss ways to increase supply.
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Associated Press writers Lisa Mascaro, Matthew Daly and Kevin Freking contributed to this report. | https://cw33.com/business/ap-business/biden-to-call-for-3-month-suspension-of-gas-and-diesel-taxes/ | 2022-06-23T00:05:56Z |
HANGZHOU, China, June 22, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- VenusP-Valve™, an in-house developed novel medical device of Venus Medtech (Hangzhou) Inc. (2500.HK, hereinafter referred to as "Venus Medtech"), recently completed its first compassionate use at University of Virginia Advanced Cardiac Valve Center in the U.S.
The procedure was performed at the Center by Professor Scott Lim's team under on-site guidance from Professor Yuan Feng and remote guidance from Professor Mao Chen, who are both from Cardiology Department, West China Hospital, Sichuan University in China. As the first-ever clinical application of a Chinese-developed heart valve product in the U.S., the case corroborates not only the unique clinical value of VenusP-Valve™ but also the significance of global-oriented innovation.
Although there are several transcatheter pulmonic valve replacement (TPVR) products available in the U.S. market, such as Melody™ TPV and Harmony™ TPV by Medtronic and the SAPIEN series by Edwards, they do not work for the considerable number of patients with dilated right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT). As a large-diameter product, VenusP-Valve™ can satisfy the clinical needs of 85% of patients in the case of large RVOT. In May 2022, VenusP-Valve™ was approved by the FDA for compassionate use in two patients.
This first patient was a 21-year-old man who suffered from severe pulmonary regurgitation, right ventricular dilation, pulmonary artery dilation, and left ventricular dysfunction after transannular patch (TAP) repair of Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF). The procedure was performed under local anesthesia where the patient remained conscious. Upon preoperative CT, intraoperative contrast-enhanced ultrasound, and balloon measurement, a P34-25 (valve diameter 34mm, straight length 25mm) VenusP-Valve™ that precisely fit the patient's anatomy was delivered through the right femoral vein. On the first postoperative day, ultrasound scan indicated a marked decrease in right ventricle volume with no pulmonary regurgitation. Left ventricular function also returned to normal. Making a sound recovery according to postoperative assessment, the patient was discharged on June 18 (within 24 hours of the procedure) local time.
"It was a great honor to work with Professor Chen and Professor Feng on the first compassionate use of VenusP-Valve™ in the United States", commented Professor Scott Lim after the procedure. "The product was very easy to handle as it's designed to facilitate precise positioning and delivery. The patient demonstrated significant improvement after the procedure. For the benefit of more patients, I really look forward to formal clinical trials of VenusP-Valve™ here as soon as possible."
Professor Chen congratulated on the first compassionate use of VenusP-Valve™ in the U.S. As he noted, VenusP-Valve™ has gained broad recognition from the global cardiology community since its first implantation in 2013. In particular, the product is a lifesaver for patients with dilated RVOT. Its transcatheter approach reduces trauma and speeds recovery, enhancing quality of life for patients in various dimensions.
Professor Feng said "VenusP-Valve™ is an excellent TPVR product. Its unique double flared-end design enables one-time delivery of stent and valve and simplifies the procedural workflow, making it a powerful tool for transcatheter treatment of pulmonary regurgitation. It is a pride of China to launch such a self-developed innovation in the U.S."
In April 2022, VenusP-Valve™ became the first Chinese-developed self-expanding TPVR product to receive CE marking under the Medical Devices Regulation (MDR). Uniquely designed with both flared ends, the product ensures the blood flow of branchial artery with bare stents at the outflow end. It provides a stable multi-point anchoring system and enables easy delivery, with no need for pre-stenting before the procedure. Available in a variety of specifications with extensive applicability, the product is able to meet the needs of 85% of patients. VenusP-Valve™ is also undergoing review and approval with the Chinese National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) and is expected to be marketed within 2022.
During its nine-year clinical use since 2013, VenusP-Valve™ has been applied to nearly 300 cases for humanitarian reasons, spanning more than 20 countries and regions in Asia, Europe, North America, and South America. In March 2021, VenusP-Valve™ received special use authorization from the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) for use in designated medical institutions.
VenusP-Valve™ has impressive clinical data backing up its long-term safety and efficacy. According to two-year follow-up result of the clinical study in Europe, the product demonstrated 100% procedural success, with no reoperation or death observed in two years. In addition, moderate and severe pulmonary regurgitation plunged from 16.88% and 83.12% preoperatively to 0%. The data suggest excellent performance, robust safety and reliability, and drastic and steady improvements in patients' cardiac function.
"The first compassionate use of VenusP-Valve™ accentuates the urgent clinical need and high regulatory recognition of the product", said Eric Zi, Founder, Executive Director, and General Manager of Venus Medtech. "VenusP-Valve™ is undergoing clinical trials or marketing application in many mainstream countries. It is an exemplar for Chinese-developed innovative medical devices to reach global markets. We have full confidence in the rapid global launch of the product as well as the benefits it brings to patients worldwide."
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SOURCE Venus Medtech (Hangzhou) Inc. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/22/first-american-patient-treated-with-venusp-valve-under-compassionate-use/ | 2022-06-22T10:47:38Z |
Teen turned away from water slide because of weight, family says
GRAFTON, Ill. (KMOV/Gray News) – A family in Illinois said their 13-year-old daughter was turned away from a ride at Raging Rivers Waterpark after being told to step on a scale in front of strangers.
Andrew Batton told KMOV that he and his family went to the amusement park in hopes of trying the newest ride, the Mississippi Monster.
Batton said a worker asked his daughter to weigh herself in front of everyone when they made it to the front of the line.
“The guy looked at us and to my daughter and said, ‘You need to step on the scale,” Batton said, adding she was embarrassed by the incident.
The scale read 205, but Batton said they were told there was a 200-pound weight limit.
A spokesperson for Raging Rivers said the decision was made to prioritize the safety of guests.
“I get the safety, but just communicate it,” Batton said.
He claims there were no signs to indicate a weight limit on the ride.
“I was like, ‘There’s nothing on the media about that. Was this posted anywhere?’ He was like, ‘No. We’ve had some people getting hurt so we’re limiting the weight on the ride,’” Batton said.
According to Raging Rivers, new water tubes for the Mississippi Monster have been ordered to increase the weight capacity for the ride.
While Batton and his daughter are both season ticket holders, they don’t plan to return to the waterpark anytime soon.
“The disappointment that she felt by not being able to ride the brand-new ride was definitely overshadowed by the public humiliation of being asked to step on a scale,” Batton said. “Then further than that, being told that you’re overweight...We as parents now have to undo the emotional damage that this corporate company caused us.”
Copyright 2022 KMOV via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.kxii.com/2022/07/13/teen-turned-away-water-slide-because-weight-family-says/ | 2022-07-13T17:34:46Z |
BEDMINSTER, N.J. (AP) — Former President Donald Trump played another round at his home course Thursday, this one different from so many others. He was part of the Saudi-funded LIV Golf Invitational pro-am, put on by a breakaway league he says is creating a “gold rush” for players.
The third LIV Golf event, which starts Friday at Trump National Bedminster, added four new players to the 48-man field that illustrated how the disruption goes beyond the PGA Tour.
Henrik Stenson of Sweden is among the newcomers, which led the European tour to strip him of the Ryder Cup captaincy for the 2023 matches in Italy.
Stenson was made aware during his news conference of a report in The Daily Telegraph, later matched by Golf Digest, that Luke Donald would be Europe’s captain.
“I don’t feel like I’ve given it up,” Stenson said. “I made every arrangement possible here to be able to fulfill my captain’s duties, and I’ve had great help here from LIV to be able to do that. And still, the decision was made that I was to be removed. I’m obviously disappointed over the situation. But it is what it is, and yeah, we move on from there now.”
By adding Stenson — the other three were Paul Casey, Charles Howell III and Jason Kokrak — LIV Golf now has 12 former major champions on its roster, though only five among the top 50 in the world ranking.
“You have really the best players in the world, many of the best players, and soon you’ll probably have all of them,” said Trump, who played in the pro-am with Dustin Johnson and Bryson DeChambeau, along with his son, Eric.
“Remember this, if there’s a merger (between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour), the people who didn’t come will never get anything except a thank-you from the people who took advantage of them.”
There is no conversation at the PGA Tour about a possible merger. Commissioner Jay Monahan said last month that while the tour welcomes healthy competition: “The LIV Saudi golf league is not that. It’s an irrational threat, one not concerned with the return on investment or true growth of the game.”
Trump felt slighted when a World Golf Championship left his Trump National Doral course near Miami after 2016 when a replacement title sponsor could not be found.
Backed by Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund, LIV Golf has been awarding massive money — various reports put total signing fees at around $1 billion so far. The PGA Tour has suspended players who join for violating regulations that require a release to play overseas. It does not grant releases for tournaments held in North America.
The prize money at LIV Golf events totals $25 million, with the winner getting $4 million. Last place in the 54-hole events with no cut is guaranteed $120,000.
“Now they have an alternative and nobody would have ever known there was going to be a gold rush like this,” Trump said.
Trump and his senior adviser and son-in-law, Jared Kushner, cultivated very close relationships with the Saudi crown prince while Trump was in office.
And the administration’s response to human rights concerns was criticized by many as not being strong enough, particularly after the murder of Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi and repeated concerns expressed about civilian deaths in the Saudi-led war in Yemen against Iran-backed rebels.
LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman has said it would support any player who chose to challenge the suspension in court. That hasn’t happened on the PGA Tour yet, though Ian Poulter and Branden Grace were among four players allowed to play in the Scottish Open when a British judge issued a temporary stay against European tour suspensions.
Poulter and Lee Westwood said they still have no clarity from the European tour on future tournaments or their eligibility for the Ryder Cup.
Europe’s points system typically begins in September.
“I’m still eligible to play on the European tour. I don’t think I’ve been banned from playing any events,” Westwood said, adding the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth is still on his schedule. “I’ve had no correspondence on that. That’s an event, a qualifying event, for the European Ryder Cup team.”
The European tour’s flagship event is Sept. 8-11 south of London, held a week after a LIV Golf event outside Boston and a week before the LIV event in the Chicago suburbs.
___
More AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golf and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://cw33.com/sports/ap-sports/trump-says-saudi-funded-tour-creates-gold-rush-for-players/ | 2022-07-29T02:50:15Z |
HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif., June 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Newlight Technologies, Inc., a nature-based biotechnology company creating regenerative materials to help improve the environment, today announced the launch of the world's first plastic-free AIRCARBON®-coated paper products, advancing the company's mission to help end the accumulation of plastic and carbon in the environment.
Most paper products today, from coffee cups to takeout containers, are coated with plastic in order to create resistance to moisture and grease, ensuring that the paper products do not become soggy and lose functionality. The combined effect of coating paper with plastic is an environmentally destructive end of life, making it challenging to either recycle due to combined materials or compost due to the presence of non-environmentally-degradable plastic. To help overcome this, Newlight has introduced the world's first paper products coated with AIRCARBON, a plastic-free PHB biomaterial made using a nature-based carbon capture process, resulting in a paper product that is moisture-resistant, grease-resistant, and plastic-free.
"Our mission is to see the end of plastic accumulation in this generation," said Newlight CEO Mark Herrema. "That isn't going to be easy, but it is possible, and the launch of AIRCARBON-coated paper products is another important step towards fulfilling that objective."
AIRCARBON-coated paper plates and bowls are now available online at www.target.com and at select in-store Target locations in the U.S., adding to the portfolio of AIRCARBON cutlery and straws currently being distributed by Newlight and its partners at hundreds of locations across the U.S. as sustainable replacements for plastic cutlery and straws.
Newlight Technologies, Inc. ("Newlight") is a nature-based biotechnology company based in California converting air and greenhouse gas into a regenerative biomaterial called AIRCARBON®. AIRCARBON is a high-performance, carbon-negative PHB biomaterial produced by naturally-occurring microorganisms that is being used to replace plastic in industrial segments ranging from foodware to fashion. Newlight's mission is to help end plastic pollution and climate change by replacing plastic with AIRCARBON, creating global-scale economic and environmental value. For more information about Newlight, visit www.aircarbon.com.
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SOURCE Newlight Technologies | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/14/aircarbon-x-paper-newlight-launches-worlds-first-plastic-free-aircarbon-coated-paper-bowls-plates/ | 2022-06-14T14:18:15Z |
The BrandSpark/Newsweek Most Trusted by Pharmacists Awards were earned across 86 OTC product categories and based on a survey of 1,682 U.S. Pharmacists
NEW YORK, Sept. 7, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Leading market research firm BrandSpark International today announced the inaugural winners of the BrandSpark/Newsweek Most Trusted by Pharmacists Awards ("BMTPA") for over-the-counter ("OTC") consumer product brands. The winners were selected based on the BrandSpark American Pharmacists Trust Study, a survey of 1,682 pharmacists currently practicing in the United States who gave their top-of-mind, unaided opinions on which brands they trust the most in 86 categories.
Americans turn to over-the-counter products to address a multitude of common health-related issues and many of these purchases are made with the help of pharmacists. They provide their opinions to consumers based on their deep knowledge of which brands they have seen to be most effective in delivering relief, treatment and care, and therefore trust the most. BrandSpark has made it easier for shoppers to navigate OTC brands by providing a 100% pharmacist-voted seal to look for when you want to know which OTC brands pharmacists trust the most.
BrandSpark researchers identified key OTC categories where trust is important to consumers, based on a review of the most common ailments consumers face and where pharmacists believe in the superiority of specific brands. Opinions of pharmacists were gathered and BrandSpark calculated which brands had the highest volume of unaided mentions. All respondents were confirmed to be currently practicing licensed pharmacists and standard research best practices were applied to ensure accuracy.
"When health is a factor, consumers actively seek the most effective and trusted products, which inspired us to expand our program to pharmacists, the premier OTC health experts. Our goal is to make healthcare professionals' opinions about the brands they most trust accessible to the everyday shopper", said Robert Levy, President of BrandSpark. "Shoppers already recognize our purple seal as a reputable and research-backed mark that helps them make better purchase decisions, and this value is amplified in OTC categories with a pharmacist-backed trust mark".
The BrandSpark American Shopper Study ("BASS") found that OTC health consumers rely on the opinions of healthcare professionals more than any other driver of trust. Pharmacists' suggestions of the brands they trust are the second most influential factor after doctors' opinions according to the study and strongly influence shoppers' purchases across major OTC categories. The study showed that establishing consumer trust is crucial to promote brand purchase over competitive options. The BASS also revealed that the importance shoppers place on pricing and recommendations of other consumers when buying OTC products slightly weakened in the last year, while the importance they place on opinions from medical professionals and pharmacists has remained stable, which speaks to the longevity of the impact of these opinions. The BrandSpark/Newsweek Most Trusted by Pharmacists Awards list of winning OTC brands meets this consumer need by providing an accessible and extensive overview of the OTC brands that pharmacists trust most.
4 Notable Winners from the 2022 BrandSpark/Newsweek Most Trusted by Pharmacists Awards:
- Sensitivity toothpaste brand, Sensodyne, earned the highest trust share of any brand among pharmacists, at 72%.
- Nature Made took home 5 awards, the most wins out of any brand in the survey, proving deep trust and authority in the supplement segment.
- Coppertone led all brands in Sunscreen for Kids while Neutrogena was most trusted for Adult Sunscreen.
- Consumer health & wellness company i-Health won in 3 categories: Probiotic Supplement (Culturelle), UTI Prevention (AZO), and Menopause Supplement (Estroven).
The BrandSpark/Newsweek Most Trusted by Pharmacists Awards 2022 winners are listed below (brands in a tie are presented in alphabetical order). See details at www.BrandSparkMostTrusted.com, and contact us for more information on any category.
Newsweek and Pharmacy Today will be publishing the results from the BrandSpark/Newsweek Most Trusted by Pharmacists Awards, helping support winners by reaching consumers and pharmacists.
1,682 pharmacists practicing in the United States determined the BrandSpark/Newsweek Most Trusted by Pharmacists Awards winners for 2022 through their unaided write-in citations, as if they were giving their suggestions in the pharmacy. The highest share of citations as Most Trusted in the category determined the winner. If the margin of citation share between the leading brands did not exceed the estimate of sampling error at 90% statistical confidence, then a tie was declared.
Founded in 2001, BrandSpark International is a research and consulting firm that provides brands with the insights they need to understand the omnichannel shopper, refine their strategic brand positioning, build consumer trust, and improve the success of their new product launches. Best New Product Awards Inc. runs two research-backed, highly accredited awards programs: the BrandSpark Most Trusted Awards, in its 10th year of helping consumers shop smarter by determining which brands they trust most; and the Best New Product Awards, in their 15th year of recognizing and rewarding brands for R&D and product innovation.
Permission and authorization from Best New Product Awards Inc. are required to reference the BrandSpark/Newsweek Most Trusted by Pharmacists Awards win or use the claim or logo in any communication.
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SOURCE BrandSpark International | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/09/07/newsweek-brandspark-international-announce-1st-annual-most-trusted-by-pharmacists-otc-brands-america/ | 2022-09-07T11:55:10Z |
TULSA, Okla., Aug. 24, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Axel Royal LLC ("Axel") is providing notice of a recent incident that may impact the privacy of certain individuals' personal information. This notice provides information about the incident, Axel's response to it, and resources available to assist individuals in safeguarding their information, should they feel it necessary to do so. Axel values and respects the confidentiality, privacy, and security of the information within its care.
What Happened? Axel recently experienced a security incident that resulted in potential unauthorized access to certain computer systems within its network. Axel immediately launched an investigation with assistance from third-party digital forensics specialists to determine the nature and scope of the incident. Through the investigation, Axel confirmed that an unauthorized actor accessed its network between February 8, 2022 and March 7, 2022 and copied a limited number of files stored on the network during that period. Axel undertook a thorough review of the affected files to determine whether any potentially sensitive information was present within them. On August 3, 2022, Axel confirmed the population of individuals whose information was included in the affected files and their addresses. Axel then proceeded promptly with direct notifications to individuals for whom address information was available.
What Information Was Involved? Axel cannot confirm if the unauthorized person(s) accessed or viewed any specific information relating to individuals. Please note that the information varied by individual and for many individuals, a limited number of data types were determined to be accessible.
What We Are Doing. Axel treats its duty to safeguard the information entrusted to it as an utmost priority. Axel responded immediately to this incident, promptly notified law enforcement authorities, and has been working diligently to provide individuals with an accurate and complete notice of the incident as soon as possible. Axel also took steps to secure potentially affected systems and conduct a diligent investigation aided by third-party cybersecurity specialists. Further, Axel implemented additional technical security measures designed to mitigate and minimize the recurrence of a similar future incident. Axel is also offering access to complimentary credit monitoring and identity protection services through Experian to individuals whose personal information may be impacted by this incident.
What You Can Do. Individuals can find out more about how to protect themselves against the potential misuse of information by reviewing the information sheet on Axel's website entitled "Steps You Can Take to Protect Information." Axel's website can be accessed at www.royalmfg.com, with the specific guidance available here: https://royalmfg.com/notice-of-security-incident/. The information sheet provides additional details regarding fraud alerts and credit freezes, as well as contact information for the nationwide consumer reporting agencies. Individuals will also find further information about the monitoring services Axel is offering to eligible individuals on its website via the hyperlink above.
For More Information. If you have questions about this incident that are not addressed in this notice, please contact our call center at (833) 420-2862, which is available Monday through Friday, 8 am – 10 pm CST, and Saturday and Sunday from 10 am – 7 pm CST (excluding U.S. holidays).
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SOURCE AXEL Royal LLC | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/24/axel-royal-llc-provides-notice-data-security-incident/ | 2022-08-24T21:48:49Z |
OSLO, Norway, June 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Gaming Innovation Group Inc. (GiG) has via its subsidiary Sportnco Gaming signed an additional agreement with an existing partner for the provision of its sportsbook and player account management (PAM) in Colombia, making it now the third regulated market where it provides both software and services to the client, in what is shaping up to be a rewarding partnership between the two companies.
Sportnco is already active in Colombia with its PAM for another client, and this deal marks the first launch of the sportsbook in Colombia, allowing the tier 1 operator to launch with the full end-to-end software offering.
The Columbian market is a lucrative and fast growing market for the industry. In 2021 online gross profits were reported at $420m according to H2 Gambling Capital, of which 56% is coming from sports betting and growing at an enticing 120% YoY.
GiG and Sportnco have extensive knowledge and experience in delivering complex and highly regulated markets successfully, in particular across LATAM. The focus is aimed at driving positive margin on behalf of customers, making them a top choice for operators looking to launch or migrate gaming operations in such markets.
Hervé Schlosser, Managing Director of Sportnco, said: "The growing demand is a clear sign that we have created a sportsbook solution that is recognised as an industry leader within the iGaming industry. It makes us very proud that a leading tier 1 operator has once again placed trust in our technology and services for another market. We are looking forward to strengthening our relationship with our long-term partner within Colombia."
For more information,contact:
Richard Brown, CEO GiG, richard.brown@gig.com, +34 661599025
About Gaming Innovation Group (GiG)
Gaming Innovation Group is a leading iGaming technology company, providing solutions, products and services to iGaming Operators. Founded in 2012, Gaming Innovation Group's vision is 'To be the industry-leading platform, sportsbook and media provider delivering world-class solutions to our iGaming partners and their customers. GiG's mission is to drive sustainable growth and profitability of our partners through product innovation, scalable technology and quality of service. Gaming Innovation Group operates out of Malta and is dual-listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol GIG and on Nasdaq Stockholm under the ticker symbol GIGSEK. www.gig.com
This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com
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SOURCE Gaming Innovation Group | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/09/gaming-innovation-group-signs-partnership-agreement-with-tier-1-operator-colombia/ | 2022-06-09T08:01:25Z |
MONTRÉAL, May 16, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - As part of its celebration of the Great builders of the Québec economy, the Institute for Governance of private and public organizations ("IGOPP") has named Madeleine Paquin, President and CEO of LOGISTEC Corporation ("LOGISTEC"), Louis Audet, Executive Chair of the Board of Cogeco, and Lino Saputo, founder of Saputo, as the laureates of its sixth edition.
Since this initiative was launched in 2010, IGOPP has been celebrating the boldness, innovation and outstanding merits of the exceptional business builders who are shaping Québec's economy. The three laureates are a shining example of the input made by long-standing, family-owned Québec businesses.
"These companies' success and significant contribution to the Québec economy sets an excellent example for the next generation of entrepreneurs. LOGISTEC has a remarkable story of continued strategic growth that could only have been achieved through the drive and bold determination of its President and CEO, Madeleine Paquin, of her leadership team and of our 3,200 people working across North America," stated J. Mark Rodger, Chairman of the Board of LOGISTEC.
"Madeleine Paquin is a true visionary, leading a company that went public over 50 years ago and is among the few female leaders of a Canadian company with shares listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange. She is the first female entrepreneur, following Dorimène Desjardins, to be named a Great Builder by IGOPP since 2011 and will be added to the Wall of Great Builders of the Québec Economy," confirmed the President and CEO of IGOPP, François Dauphin.
"Throughout our 70-year history, we have taken bold and thoughtful steps that have allowed us to continue to grow and prosper, to prepare for the next generation of talent, and to contribute to the economic ecosystem. I am very proud of LOGISTEC's evolution, and I am deeply grateful to IGOPP for this award, which I share with my entire leadership team," said Madeleine Paquin, President and CEO, LOGISTEC.
A bronze plaque for each of the laureates will be added to the Wall of Great builders of the Québec economy, on the mezzanine at 1000 De la Gauchetière West, which features more than a dozen builders honoured since 2010. They are Laurent Beaudoin, Paul Desmarais, Alain Bouchard, Serge Godin, John and Eric Molson, André Chagnon, the Lemaire and Pomerleau families, and the financial and agricultural cooperative movement, specifically Dorimène and Alphonse Desjardins.
This Wall is intended to remind future generations of the efforts made by the entrepreneurs who have built and will continue to build important, sustainable businesses for the Québec economy.
LOGISTEC Corporation is based in Montréal (QC) and provides specialized services to the marine community and industrial companies in the areas of bulk, break-bulk and container cargo handling in 54 ports and 80 terminals located in North America. LOGISTEC also offers marine transportation services geared primarily to the Arctic coastal trade as well as marine agency services to shipowners and operators serving the Canadian market. Furthermore, the Company operates in the environmental industry where it provides services to industrial, municipal and other governmental customers for the renewal of underground water mains, dredging, dewatering, contaminated soils and materials management, site remediation, risk assessment, and manufacturing of fluid transportation products.
The Company has been profitable and has paid regular dividends since becoming public and payments have grown steadily over the years. A public company since 1969, LOGISTEC's shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the ticker symbols LGT.A and LGT.B. More information can be obtained on the Company's website at www.logistec.com.
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SOURCE Logistec Corporation - Communications | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/05/16/madeleine-paquin-logistec-louis-audet-cogeco-lino-saputo-saputo-named-great-builders-qubec-economy/ | 2022-05-16T14:51:05Z |
NEW YORK, June 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ --
WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, continues its investigation of potential securities claims on behalf of shareholders of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL) resulting from allegations that Rollins may have issued materially misleading business information to the investing public.
SO WHAT: If you purchased Rollins securities you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement. The Rosen Law Firm is preparing a class action seeking recovery of investor losses.
WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the prospective class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=2735 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email pkim@rosenlegal.com or cases@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action.
WHAT IS THIS ABOUT: On October 28, 2020, Rollins disclosed that a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) investigation had been initiated and believed the SEC's focus to be how accruals and reserves were established at period ends and their impact on reported earnings going as far back as January 2015.
Then on February 26, 2021, Rollins announced that an internal investigation into the same matters found "a significant deficiency in the Company's internal controls relating to the documentation and review of accounting entries for certain reserves and accruals." On this news, Rollins share prices fell $0.87, or 2.5%, to close at $33.17 per share on February 26, 2021, damaging investors.
Then on April 18, 2022, the SEC announced that Rollins agreed to pay $8 million to settle the charges that Rollins made unsupported reductions to its accounting reserves to improperly boost its earnings per share. On this news, Rollins share price fell $0.55, or approximately 1.7%, to close at $34.29 on April 18, 2022, damaging investors.
WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources or any meaningful peer recognition. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.
Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/.
Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Information:
Laurence Rosen, Esq.
Phillip Kim, Esq.
The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.
275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor
New York, NY 10016
Tel: (212) 686-1060
Toll Free: (866) 767-3653
Fax: (212) 202-3827
lrosen@rosenlegal.com
pkim@rosenlegal.com
cases@rosenlegal.com
www.rosenlegal.com
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SOURCE Rosen Law Firm, P.A. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/13/rosen-respected-investor-counsel-encourages-rollins-inc-investors-with-losses-inquire-about-securities-class-action-investigation-rol/ | 2022-06-13T22:08:23Z |
TOKYO (AP) — Dozens of people have evacuated two towns on Japan’s main southern island of Kyushu where a volcano spewed ash and large rocks into the nighttime sky.
Large rocks fell as far as 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles) from the Sakurajima volcano Sunday night in the southern prefecture of Kagoshima. Footage on Japan’s NHK public television showed orange flames flashing near the crater and dark smoke with ash billowing high above the mountaintop.
Japan’s Meteorological Agency raised the eruption alert to the highest level of five and advised 51 residents in two towns facing the volcano to leave their homes.
By Monday morning, 33 of them left their homes for a nursing care facility in a safer part of the region, according to Kagoshima city. NHK said others subject to evacuation might have evacuated to other locations.
“We will put the people’s lives first and do our utmost to assess the situation and respond to any emergency,” Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihiko Isozaki told reporters. He called on residents to pay close attention to updates from local authorities to protect their lives.
A dusting of ash was visible on cars in Kagoshima, but no damage or injuries have been reported. Schools in the area are on summer recess but closed Monday for clubs and extracurricular activities.
JMA warned of the potential for falling volcanic rocks within 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) of the crater and possible flow of lava, ash and searing gas within 2 kilometers (1.2 miles).
The chances of more explosive violent eruptions were low, but residents still should be watchful for falling rocks, mudslide and pyroclastic flow, said Tsuyoshi Nakatsuji, a JMA official in charge of volcano watch. He also advised residents to close curtains and stay away from windows, which could break by the force of an eruption.
Sakurajima on the main southern island of Kyushu is one of Japan’s most active volcanos and has erupted repeatedly. It used to be an island but became a peninsula following an eruption in 1914 that killed 58 people.
Sakurajima is about 1,000 kilometers (600 miles) southwest of Tokyo. | https://cw33.com/news/science-technology/ap-science/volcanic-eruption-in-japan-forces-evacuations-in-2-towns/ | 2022-07-25T19:35:08Z |
Guests enjoy sustainable ingredients without compromising flavor, thanks to the ongoing inclusion of Impossible™ Beef Made From Plants on menus nationwide
SAN DIEGO, April 22, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- QDOBA, the leading fast-casual Mexican restaurant known for making the world a more flavorful place, commemorates Earth Day 2022 by encouraging fans to go plant-based without compromising flavor. Impossible Beef Made From Plants has become a mainstay in many delicious entreés on the QDOBA menu, including the signature Impossible™ Fajita Bowl and other dishes thoughtfully enjoyed by guests from coast to coast. QDOBA fans are encouraged to invest in the earth by choosing the flavorful, plant-based protein for their next meal. For an extra special treat, QDOBA is also offering free chips and dip with the purchase of any Impossible entrée purchased online through May 1 using code "Earth" at checkout*.
"Guests who expand their flavor horizons with an Impossible Beef entrée this Earth Day will excite their taste buds and be one step closer to reducing their carbon footprint," said Keith Guilbault, CEO of QDOBA. "This tasty and craveable option gives red meat eaters, flexitarians and vegetarians alike a nutritious, sustainably sourced protein option they can feel good about. Guests are encouraged to level up their Impossible entrées by adding one (or more!) of our free signature salsas, sauces and toppings from our delicious Flavor Bar."
In addition to always seeking quality and flavor-packed ingredients from suppliers that adhere to sustainable farming and production techniques, the company follows many earth friendly practices in its restaurants and throughout its supply chain. For instance:
- In 2021, QDOBA reduced its supply chain emissions by 70%.
- 80% of the ingredients QDOBA serves will meet the company's clean label pledge by the end of 2022.
- All of QDOBA's protein suppliers are encouraged to comply with The Five Freedoms of Animal Well-Being.
- QDOBA serves GMO-free rice that's sustainably grown in the U.S., supporting both American farmers and the economy.
- Eco-friendly packaging options are regularly integrated into restaurants.
- Efforts around waste, energy and water usage are conducted through QDOBA's partnerships with leading industry experts.
"We're dedicated to reducing our carbon footprint by minimizing resource consumption and growing our sustainable packaging over time," said Guilbault. "Whether it's through the products we use or the work we do with third-party organizations to improve our waste, energy and water usage, QDOBA continuously strives to be environmentally conscious."
According to a recent report by Grand View Research, Inc., the global plant-based meat market is projected to reach $24.8 billion by 2030. Impossible Foods, a leader in the field, is on a mission to make products that are better for you, better for the planet, and taste better than animal meat.
Impossible Beef has 0 mg cholesterol, 40% less total fat (13 g v. 23 g total fat), 33% less saturated fat (6 g v. 9 g saturated fat), and as much iron and protein as a comparable 4 oz serving of 80/20 ground beef from cows. Impossible Beef also uses 92% less water, 96% less land and produces 91% less greenhouse gas emissions than ground beef from cows.
For more information about QDOBA, their earth-friendly menu items, practices and more, please visit www.QDOBA.com.
*Please visit www.qdoba.com/earth-day-2022 for terms and conditions.
About QDOBA Mexican Eats
QDOBA is a fast-casual Mexican restaurant with more than 740 locations in the U.S. and Canada. Committed to bringing flavor to people's lives, QDOBA uses ingredients freshly prepared in-house by hand throughout the day to create delicious menu options. Guests can experience QDOBA's delicious flavors by enjoying one of its chef-crafted signature eats for convenience and ease, or by creating their own burritos, bowls, tacos, quesadillas, nachos, and salads to suit their personal tastes and cravings. For four years running, QDOBA has been voted the "Best Fast Casual Restaurant" as part of the USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice Awards.
Backed by 25 years of proven success in the United States, and recently Canada, QDOBA is prioritizing franchise growth in key markets such as Arizona, Georgia, Ohio, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Texas and Pennsylvania. For additional information about the QDOBA franchise opportunity, visit www.qdobafranchise.com.
Discover more at www.QDOBA.com or on the QDOBA app, which is available for download on the iTunes App Store or Google Play. Fans can also connect with QDOBA on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and TikTok.
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SOURCE QDOBA | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/04/22/qdoba-mexican-eats-celebrates-earth-day-with-spotlight-plant-based-menu-items-free-chips-amp-dip-with-every-qdoba-entre-featuring-impossible-beef-when-purchased-online-through-may-1/ | 2022-04-22T11:45:58Z |
TORONTO, April 12, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Halo Collective Inc. ("Halo" or the "Company") (NEO: HALO) (OTCQX: HCANF) (Germany: A9KN) today announced that its Budega Westwood Dispensary passed its Los Angeles inspection and is expected to open within 30 days.
The Budega Westwood location is perfectly located nestled in between Westwood to the west and Beverly Hills to the east, right off of one of LA's most traveled and famous thoroughfares for locals and visitors, the Santa Monica Boulevard (10461 Santa Monica Blvd) and within two miles of the University of Los Angeles California campus. The facility is leased and near complete with renovations of its approximately 1,500 square foot prime retail space with the potential to expand the site to up to 3,000 square feet.
On Friday, March 31, 2022, Budega Westwood successfully passed the local Department of Cannabis Regulation ("DCR") final site inspection and has been approved to proceed with the final state license review citing no violations. Budega Westwood is now into final state licensing administrative review and once opened will mark the second of three planned Los Angeles dispensaries following the opening of the Company's first dispensary in the Arts District of North Hollywood in March 2022.
Budega Westwood will follow the retail cadence of NOHO by continuing to offer our vast product assortment exceeding 1,000 SKUs, including many top-tier California brands such as Jungle Boys, Jeeter, Cookies, and Kiva as well highlight Budega's vertically integrated line of branded products, which remain amongst the top selling SKU's at Budega NOHO. In addition, the store will also stock Halo's Hush™ branded cartridges, gummies, and pre-rolls. The store plans to operate Monday through Sunday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Visit www.budega.com for more information or to place your order online.
It is with great pride that we announce our introduction into southern California's retail cannabis market is proving to be successful. By means of analyzing internal reports, guest feedback and participation in our various proprietary programs and through measurement of both the customer frequency and sales trajectory, our NoHo location is exceeding the initial internal estimates for financial performance. Our emphasis on creative market share capture, development of trend setting customer loyalty programs and our front line execution, combined with a strong product assortment and service standards validates that cannabis consumers are receptive to the different experience that we are delivering and making Budega the place to shop, work and transact for locals and visitors.
"The expansion of our Budega concept furthers our presence in the fast-growing, under-served California market," commented Kiran Sidhu, Halo's Chief Executive Officer. "We have put significant effort into building a differentiated retail concept, creating a superior experience for our customers with a wide variety of high-quality products to serve discerning consumers and meet any need. We expect the Budega brand to achieve a leadership position amongst cannabis dispensaries," stated Kiran Sidhu, CEO of Halo.
California is the highest-grossing state for cannabis retail sales in the United States, with legal retail sales of $5.2 billion1 in 2021, up 17% from 2020. California is projected to gross $7 billion by 2025.2 California is the largest legal cannabis market in the United States and is less saturated than other mature retail markets. In Los Angeles County, there are approximately 250 licenses3 for a population of 3.9 million across 500 square miles4, compared to Oregon, which has 4.3 million people and approximately 800 stores across 98,466 square miles5. There are roughly two licenses per 100,000 people in California, one of the lowest rates in the nation among states that support legal recreational sales. By comparison, Oregon has 18 retail shops for every 100,000 residents. Colorado boasts a similar ratio, and Washington state's rate is more than triple California's6.
As Halo continues to implement its seed-to-sale verticalization strategy, owning and operating retail businesses, particularly in California, is key to increasing value by controlling distribution and adding operating margin. As such, the closing and acquisition of 66 ⅔% of the Westwood Los Angeles dispensary businesses and previously 100% of its respective management company marks another milestone.
Further to its press release dated February 6, 2021, the Company has completed the acquisition of all of the issued and outstanding membership interests of ZXC11 Company Majority Member (as defined below) (approved social equity applicant which owns 66 ⅔% of ZXC11 LLC ("ZXC11")), in a strategic move to further the Company's presence in California's growing cannabis market.
A subsidiary of PSG Coastal LLC merged with the limited liability company that owns 66 ⅔% of ZXC11 (the "ZXC11 Company Majority Member"). ZXC11 Company Majority Member survived, and PSG, as a result, owns 100% of ZXC11 Company Majority Member. The other 33 1/3% of ZXC11 continues to be owned by the social equity applicant (which is required under the DCR regulations).
The consideration payable by Halo in connection with this merger is an aggregate of 390,769 Halo shares, issuable as follows:
- 236,903 Halo shares were issued on March 2, 2021 as a non-refundable pre-closing deposit upon acceptance of the transaction by NEO Exchange, of which 168,519 will be subject to the Pooling Agreement; and
- 153,865 Halo shares were issued at the closing of the merger.
The merger agreement includes customary representations and warranties, closing conditions, and indemnification provisions. In addition, upon closing, Halo issued an aggregate of 11,539 Halo shares to an arm's length party as a finder's fee, and such shares will be subject to a statutory hold period of four months and one day.
Halo is a leading, vertically integrated cannabis company focused on the West Coast of the United States and operates other emerging businesses in CBD and non-psychotropic mushroom functional beverages. In its cannabis operations, the Company cultivates, extracts, manufactures, and distributes quality cannabis flower, oils, and concentrates and has sold hundreds of millions of grams of cannabis in the form of flower, pre-rolls, vape carts, edibles, and concentrates since inception. The Company sells a portfolio of branded cannabis products including its proprietary Hush™, Winberry Farms™, Williams Wonder Farms, and Budega™ brands, and under license agreements with Papa's Herb®, DNA Genetics, Terphogz, and FlowerShop*.
In Oregon, Halo has a combined 14 acres of owned and contracted outdoor and greenhouse cultivation. The Company also operates Food Concepts LLC, a master tenant of a 55,000 square foot indoor cannabis cultivation, processing, and wholesaling facility in Portland.
In California, Halo maintains licenses for extraction, manufacturing, and distribution. The Company has partnered with Green Matter to purchase the Bar X Farm in Lake County and plans to develop up to 63 acres of cultivation, comprising one of the largest licensed single-site grows in California. Halo has opened its first dispensary in Los Angeles under the Budega™ brand in the Arts District of North Hollywood and plans to open two more in Hollywood, and Westwood by the 2nd quarter of 2022.
Halo is also expanding into other consumer health and wellness categories expected to experience rapid growth in consumer demand, including functional supplements such as nootropic nutraceuticals. The Company has recently acquired H2C Beverages, a company focused on cannabinoids and non-psychotropic mushroom functional beverages, and entered into a distribution and manufacturing agreement with SWAY Energy Corporation (formerly Elegance Brands Inc.), to propel the national distribution of beverages, capsules, and topical supplements under H2C and Halo's functional mushroom brand, Hushrooms.
Halo has acquired a range of software development assets, including CannPOS, Cannalift, CannaFeels, and a discrete sublingual dosing technology, Accudab. The Company intends to reorganize these entities (including their intellectual property and patent applications) into a subsidiary called Halo Tek Inc., and to complete a distribution of the shares of Halo Tek Inc. to shareholders on record, at a date to be determined.
Halo also operates three Kushbar retail cannabis stores located in Alberta, Canada.
Outside of North America, Halo is the largest shareholder of Akanda Corp. (NASDAQ: AKAN) currently owning 44% of the common shares. Akanda is an international medical cannabis and wellness platform company seeking to help people lead better lives through improved access to high quality and affordable products. Akanda is building a seed-to-patient supply chain, connecting patients in the U.K. and Europe with diverse products, including cannabis products cultivated at its competitively advantaged grow operation in the Kingdom of Lesotho and with other trusted third-party brands. Akanda's initial portfolio includes Bophelo Bioscience & Wellness, a GACP qualified cultivation campus in the Kingdom of Lesotho in Southern Africa, and CanMart, a UK-based fully licensed pharmaceutical importer and distributor which supplies pharmacies and clinics within the U.K. Halo's stake in Akanda is valued atapproximately $116.4 million USD, based on the April 12th, 2022 NASDAQ closing price.
For further information regarding Halo, see Halo's disclosure documents on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.
Connect with Halo Collective: Email | Website | LinkedIn | Twitter | Instagram
This press release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and may also contain statements that may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking information and forward-looking statements are not representative of historical facts or information or current condition, but instead represent only Halo's beliefs regarding future events, plans or objectives, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and outside of Halo's control. Generally, such forward-looking information or forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or may contain statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "will continue", "will occur" or "will be achieved". Forward-looking information may relate to anticipated events or results including, but not limited to the opening of Budega Westwood and the prospects thereof, management's plans regarding its portfolio of cannabis businesses, the expected contribution from the Company's California dispensaries and the expected opening date thereof, the time and place for the Company's earnings call, the expected size and capabilities of the final facility planned at Ukiah Ventures, the size of Halo's planned cultivation facility in Northern California and the proposed spin-off by Halo Tek Inc.
By identifying such information and statements in this manner, Halo is alerting the reader that such information and statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such information and statements. In addition, in connection with the forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained in this press release, Halo has made certain assumptions. Although Halo believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing, and the expectations contained in, the forward-looking information and statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information and statements, and no assurance or guarantee can be given that such forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information and statements. Among others, the key factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information and statements are the following: inability of management to successfully integrate the operations of acquired businesses, changes in the consumer market for cannabis products, changes in the expected outcomes of the proposed changes to Halo's operations, delays in obtaining required licenses or approvals necessary for the build-out of the Company's cannabis operations, dispensaries or Canadian operations, the proposed spin-out with Halo Tek Inc., delays or unforeseen costs incurred in connection with construction, the ability of competitors to scale operations in Northern California, delays or unforeseen difficulties in connection with the cultivation and harvest of Halo's raw material, changes in general economic, business and political conditions, including changes in the financial markets; and the other risks disclosed in the Company's annual information form dated March 31, 2022 and other disclosure documents available on the Company's profile at www.sedar.com. Should one or more of these risks, uncertainties or other factors materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking information or statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected.
The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and Halo does not undertake to update any forward-looking information and/or forward-looking statements that are contained or referenced herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking information and statements attributable to Halo or persons acting on its behalf is expressly qualified in its entirety by this notice.
This press release includes market and industry data that has been obtained from third party sources, including industry publications. The Company believes that the industry data is accurate and that its estimates and assumptions are reasonable, but there is no assurance as to the accuracy or completeness of this data. Third party sources generally state that the information contained therein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but there is no assurance as to the accuracy or completeness of included information. Although the data is believed to be reliable, the Company has not independently verified any of the data from third party sources referred to in this press release or ascertained the underlying economic assumptions relied upon by such sources
This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities described herein, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.
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SOURCE Halo Collective Inc. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/04/12/halo-collective-announces-westwood-dispensary-completion-local-inspections-passed-planned-opening-second-budega-california/ | 2022-04-12T21:14:28Z |
Cheers and fears as US ends mask mandates for travel
Fliers, subway riders shed masks
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — A pilot declared over the loudspeaker on a cross-country Delta Air Lines flight that passengers were no longer required to wear masks, eliciting cheers from the cabin and prompting some on board to immediately toss their face coverings onto their seats.
“Feel free to burn them at will,” a train conductor told New Jersey commuters. Other passengers were confused, startled and angered by the abrupt change, however, especially those who booked trips in the belief that their unvaccinated children would be traveling in a masked environment.
A federal judge’s decision Monday to throw out a mask requirement on public transportation did away with the last major vestige of federal pandemic rules and led to a mishmash of new locally created rules that reflected the nation’s ongoing division over how to battle the virus.
Major airlines and airports in places like Dallas, Atlanta, Los Angeles and Salt Lake City quickly switched to a mask-optional policy. New York City, Chicago, Los Angeles and Connecticut continued to require them on mass transit. But a host of other cities ditched their mandates, even though the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continued to recommend masking on transportation.
Brooke Tansley, a television producer and former Broadway performer, boarded a flight with her 4-year-old and 8-month-old baby— neither old enough to be vaccinated — only to learn that the mask mandate had ended mid-flight.
“Here we are, trapped in the sky with our 8-month-old unmasked baby (you can’t actually mask a baby that young) under the supposition that everyone who can be masked would be masked, and the flight 325 crew has taken our choices away from us,” she said in a tweet. “Very very angry about this.”
For many, though, the news was welcome. A video showed some passengers on a Delta Air Lines flight cheering and applauding as they took off their masks upon hearing the announcement they were now optional. One man could be seen happily twirling his mask on his finger.
On a Southwest Airlines flight Monday from Detroit to Nashville, the change to optional status was incorporated into the safety announcements, prompting murmurs and fist pumps from some passengers and no audible complaints.
In Portland, Oregon, transit employees were immediately working on taking down “mask required” announcements and signs, but said it would likely take several days to remove everything.
The city joined Atlanta, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and Kansas City, Missouri, in making masking optional on mass transit.
“We know our riders have mixed feelings about the mandate ending,” Portland’s public transit agency, TriMet, posted on social media. “We ask everyone to be respectful of others as we all adjust to this change.”
Some passengers at Chicago’s Union Station said the rules were confusing. Both Amtrak and Metra, the regional commuter rail service, said masks still are required, but some passengers walking through the station didn’t wear them.
“It’s like this patchwork of different rules and enforcement of it,” said Erik Abderhalden, who wore a mask as he waited for a Metra train to his home in suburban Naperville. “I mean, it’s like Swiss cheese ... there’s no uniformity and it seems pretty laissez faire.”
The Chicago Transit Authority also said it still will require masks on city trains and buses, for now.
Subway rider Cooper Klinges was pleased that New York City’s public transit system wasn’t following the trend and planned to keep its mask requirement in place. As he waited at a train station in Brooklyn, New York, he said he canceled a flight earlier this year over concerns about the virus.
“I don’t think we are out of the woods yet,” said Klinges, a teacher, citing concerns about the BA.2 omicron subvariant of the coronavirus. “It is still around. We have to still stick it out.”
The ride-sharing companies Lyft and Uber announced on their websites Tuesday that masks will now be optional while riding or driving.
The national mask rule for travelers was one of the last of the pandemic restrictions still in place. It sparked online flame throwing between those who felt they were crucial to protecting people and those who saw it as an unnecessary inconvenience or even government overkill.
Some flight attendants found themselves cursed and even attacked by passengers who refused to comply.
In a 59-page lawsuit ruling, U.S. District Judge Kathryn Kimball Mizelle in Tampa said the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention overstepped its authority in issuing the original health order on which the TSA directive was based. She also said the order was fatally flawed because the CDC didn’t follow proper rulemaking procedures.
The Justice Department declined to comment when asked if it would seek an emergency stay to block the judge’s order.
While airline and mass transit passengers around the country were ditching masks, the White House made clear that those traveling with President Joe Biden to New Hampshire on Tuesday would be required to keep face coverings on “in line with CDC guidance.” A Biden administration official also said there were no changes expected to the pre-departure testing requirement for international passengers bound to the U.S.
Asked Tuesday if people should still wear masks on planes, Biden replied: “That’s up to them.”
The CDC had recently extended the mask mandate, which was set to expire Monday, until May 3 to allow more time to study the BA.2 omicron subvariant now responsible for the vast majority of cases in the U.S. But the court ruling puts that decision on hold.
After a winter surge fueled by the omicron variant that led to record hospitalizations, the U.S. has seen a significant drop in virus spread in recent months that led most states and cities to drop mask mandates.
But several Northeast cities have seen a rise in hospitalizations in recent weeks, leading Philadelphia to bring back its mask mandate.
The federal mask requirement for travelers was the target of months of lobbying from the airlines, which sought to kill it. The carriers argued that effective air filters on modern planes make transmission of the virus during a flight highly unlikely. Republicans in Congress also fought to kill the mandate.
“We are relieved to see the U.S. mask mandate lift to facilitate global travel as COVID-19 transitions to a more manageable respiratory virus — with better treatments, vaccines and other scientific measures to prevent serious illness,” Delta announced in a news release.
___
Hollingsworth reported from Mission, Kansas. Associated Press writers David Koenig in Dallas, Michael Balsamo and Will Weissert in Washington, Karen Matthews in New York and Teresa Crawford in Chicago contributed to this report.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/04/19/cheers-fear-judge-strikes-down-us-transit-mask-mandate/ | 2022-04-19T20:58:28Z |
The NHL playoffs are missing the close games and comebacks that seemingly come annually with all the postseason intensity.
Excluding games with empty-netters increasing the margin, 10 of the 20 first-round games through Friday night have been decided by three or more goals. By comparison, there had been only four one-goal games with two reaching at least one overtime session.
Along the way, comebacks have been almost non-existent with teams that jump out rarely surrendering control.
“When you get behind, I guess you’re chasing the game,” said Florida Panthers interim coach Andrew Brunette, whose Presidents’ Trophy-winning team lost 6-1 at Washington on Saturday. “It forces you to open up a little bit. And then sometimes it goes the other way and you keep pushing. I think you see that throughout the league, actually, a lot.”
Colorado also added to the list of one-sided outcomes Saturday, scoring the last four goals to beat Nashville 7-3 for a 3-0 series lead.
Looking at the Game 4 matchups Sunday, Carolina, Minnesota, Toronto and Edmonton are outscoring their opponents by a nearly 2-to-1 margin (53-27). Most notably, the Oilers have beaten the Los Angeles Kings by 6-0 and 8-2 margins in the past two games.
Getting back into the game after falling behind has been tough, too.
Only two teams had lost as of Friday night when scoring first, then Florida followed Saturday by surrendering six goals after taking a 1-0 lead. Pittsburgh was the only team through the first 20 games to win after trailing by two goals with its 4-3 triple-overtime win against the New York Rangers to start their series.
Going deeper into the game, Washington’s Game 1 win at Florida marked the only time that a team won after trailing in the third period.
That comes after a regular season in which four teams – led by Florida’s 24 wins – won 20-plus games when surrendering the first goal. And 13 teams overcome at least a three-goal deficit at least once.
“The score of the game doesn’t matter if it’s 2-1 triple-overtime or a little more lopsided,” Oilers coach Jay Woodcroft said. “That doesn’t matter. That is one game.”
HURRICANES at BRUINS, Carolina leads series 2-1 (12:30 p.m. EDT, ESPN)
Carolina and Boston are managing injury concerns.
The Hurricanes lost winger Jordan Martinook to a lower-body injury in Friday’s Game 3 loss. Martinook’s injury could open a spot for veteran Derek Stepan with 106 career playoff games on his resume.
“Obviously it’s probably not an ideal situation but it’s an opportunity for me,” Stepan said.
Coach Rod Brind’Amour said the Hurricanes will also look at whether to start Antti Raanta in net for Game 4. He was knocked early from Game 2 after taking a blow to the head from Boston’s David Pastrnak, with rookie Pyotr Kochetkov taking over that game and starting Game 3.
Bruins coach Bruce Cassidy said defenseman Hampus Lindholm is improving but will miss his second straight game after taking a jarring hit from Carolina’s Andrei Svechnikov in Game 2.
WILD at BLUES, Minnesota leads series 2-1 (4:30 p.m. EDT, TBS)
The St. Louis Blues have taken another hit to their blue line.
Defenseman Torey Krug exited Friday’s Game 3 in the first period due to a lower-body injury and didn’t return.
“It’s going to be some time,” coach Craig Berube said Saturday.
St. Louis was already dealing with injury concerns for fellow defensemen Robert Bortuzzo and Nick Leddy.
Bortuzzo took a puck to the face and departed the Game 2 loss in the first period. Leddy was held out of Game 2 with an upper-body injury he suffered and played through in Game 1. Berube didn’t offer a timeline on their return, saying the team would evaluate how they skated Saturday.
Minnesota has won each of the past two games by four-goal margins, first 6-2 in Game 2 and then 5-1 in Friday’s Game 3 on the road.
MAPLE LEAFS at LIGHTNING, Toronto leads series 2-1 (7 p.m. EDT, TBS)
The Lightning feel they self-imploded in Game 3, spending far too much time in the penalty box against a team that had the league’s best regular-season power play.
Over the past three postseasons, the two-time reigning Stanley Cup campions are 16-0 in games following a playoff loss.
“Let’s be honest, if you’re going to spend 10 of the first 40 minutes in the penalty box, that doesn’t help you either,” coach Jon Cooper said. “But I just have a ton of faith in a veteran group here, so I expect to bounce back.”
The Maple Leafs know the series is far from over.
“I don’t think we’ve accomplished anything yet, obviously. … But I like where we’re at as a group,” Toronto defenseman Morgan Rielly said. “We’re focused, we’re not getting too far ahead of ourselves, and it’s important that we keep that in check.”
OILERS at KINGS, Edmonton leads series 2-1 (10 p.m. EDT, TBS)
The Kings have to figure out how to slow a humming Oilers attack.
After winning Game 1 in overtime, the Kings have lost the last two games by a combined 14-2 margin. That made the Oilers the first team in league history to lose the first game of a playoff series then win each of the next two by at least six goals, according to STATS.
Edmonton is 5 for 11 (.455) on the power play to lead all teams in the postseason and they’ve been taking control in the second period (plus-25 shots, plus-5 goals). By comparison, Los Angeles is 1 for 12 (.083) with the man advantage.
“We have to look at it 2-1,” Kings center Phillip Danault said. “You don’t want to look at all the goals. We didn’t play good at all, but, yeah, we got to work hard on being better.”
___
AP Hockey Writers John Wawrow in Buffalo, New York; and Stephen Whyno in Washington; and AP Sports Writers Fred Goodall in Tampa, Florida; and Joe Reedy in Los Angeles; contributed to this report.
___
Follow Aaron Beard on Twitter at https://twitter.com/aaronbeardap
___
More AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/NHL and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://cw33.com/sports/ap-sports/nhl-playoffs-full-of-lopsided-scores-lacking-comebacks/ | 2022-05-08T19:02:40Z |
NEW YORK, Aug. 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Levi & Korsinsky, LLP notifies investors in Amazon.com, Inc. ("Amazon" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: AMZN) of a class action securities lawsuit.
CLASS DEFINITION: The lawsuit seeks to recover losses on behalf of Amazon investors who were adversely affected by alleged securities fraud. This lawsuit is on behalf of all persons or entities that purchased or otherwise acquired shares of Amazon common stock between July 30, 2021, and April 28, 2022, inclusive. Follow the link below to get more information and be contacted by a member of our team:
AMZN investors may also contact Joseph E. Levi, Esq. via email at jlevi@levikorsinsky.com or by telephone at (212) 363-7500.
CASE DETAILS: The filed complaint alleges that defendants made false statements and/or concealed that: 1) defendants knew or recklessly disregarded that the Company's infrastructure and fulfillment network investments substantially outpaced demand; 2) those investments were a massive, self-imposed, undue drain on Amazon's financial condition; 3) contrary to defendants' public statements and undisclosed to investors, defendants had already implemented cutbacks to Amazon's fulfillment capacity by July 2021; and 4) as a result of defendants' misrepresentations and omissions, Amazon's common stock traded at artificially inflated prices during the class period.
WHAT'S NEXT? If you suffered a loss in Amazon during the relevant time frame, you have until September 6, 2022 to request that the Court appoint you as lead plaintiff. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff.
NO COST TO YOU: If you are a class member, you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out-of-pocket costs or fees. There is no cost or obligation to participate.
WHY LEVI & KORSINSKY: Over the past 20 years, the team at Levi & Korsinsky has secured hundreds of millions of dollars for aggrieved shareholders and built a track record of winning high-stakes cases. Our firm has extensive expertise representing investors in complex securities litigation and a team of over 70 employees to serve our clients. For seven years in a row, Levi & Korsinsky has ranked in ISS Securities Class Action Services' Top 50 Report as one of the top securities litigation firms in the United States.
CONTACT:
Levi & Korsinsky, LLP
Joseph E. Levi, Esq.
Ed Korsinsky, Esq.
55 Broadway, 10th Floor
New York, NY 10006
jlevi@levikorsinsky.com
Tel: (212) 363-7500
Fax: (212) 363-7171
www.zlk.com
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SOURCE Levi & Korsinsky, LLP | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/11/amzn-lawsuit-alert-levi-amp-korsinsky-notifies-amazoncom-inc-investors-class-action-lawsuit-upcoming-deadline/ | 2022-08-11T10:39:14Z |
WASHINGTON (AP) — Jill Biden urged graduates of a Los Angeles community college on Tuesday to “never forget where you came from,” saying they can learn from their past without being defined by it.
The first lady, a community college English professor, singled out a few Los Angeles City College graduates in her brief remarks, including a 46-year-old woman who realized a childhood dream of becoming a teacher after losing her 25-year career as a graphic designer during the pandemic.
She also told the stories of a woman from the Ivory Coast who went into labor with her third child during her final exam, but still completed her test, and of the U.S. Marine diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder after a tour in Afghanistan but found treatment and enrolled at LACC.
In her first address of the 2022 commencement season, Biden told the more than 1,000 graduates that “you astonish me with your grit and your determination and that is why I love teaching community college.”
As first lady, she continues to teach at Northern Virginia Community College, where she has taught since 2009.
“My charge to you is this: Never forget your path, the people who brought you here, or the lessons you’ve realized along the way,” she said. “Never forget where you came from. It doesn’t have to define you, but it will always have something to teach you.”
“Never forget what made you who you are, and then you will be ready for wherever you choose to go next,” she said.
Biden visited Los Angeles City College in 2016 to announce the start of the Los Angeles College Promise Program, which offers free tuition for all new, full-time students at the Los Angeles Community College District, including LACC, according to the school’s website.
Biden and her husband, President Joe Biden, pushed last year for a nationwide program that would provide two years of free community college, but Congress rejected the idea.
The first lady was in Los Angeles to help host, with President Biden, the Summit of the Americas, a gathering of leaders of democracies in the Western Hemisphere. | https://cw33.com/news/politics/ap-politics/jill-biden-to-l-a-college-grads-never-forget-your-path/ | 2022-06-08T17:32:14Z |
squawkbox@albanyherald.com
April 7, 2022 will be etched in my memory, as it will my granddaughter’s. She was elated to see, as she put it, “someone like me” confirmed as the first black Supreme Court Justice. What a great day!
Albany is so large that my carrier leaves the post office at 9 a.m. and doesn’t get to my home until 6 p.m. Seems to me the poor carrier is overworked. They should hire some unemployed person to help. The answer could be to let the carrier work out of the west Albany Post Office.
I love Herschel Walker as much as the average Georgia fan, if not more. However, with the baggage he brings with him from legal problems, I think Gary Black is the better choice to win it all.
Carlton, your take on public assistance has some merit, obviously. I agree that there is fraud, other forms of abuse of the system and habitual training for reliance on the system. The problem I see is that too many of your readers hold the opinion that those programs should be eliminated. Perhaps you can delve into what they are really are supporting.
Poor Will Smith. The next 10 years he won’t be allowed to attend that show with the worst ratings in 20 years. Crying shame. The Patriot
Squawker who is concerned about how Stacey Abrams made her money: You didn’t seem that concerned that Donald Trump made his money through bankruptcies, cheating creditors out of money they were owed. Maybe you have a problem with her “demographics,” or maybe you just worship Trump like the rest of those goobers.
Media and Washington now admit COVID stimulus was the worse financial debacle in U.S. history. I told them and you that very thing more than two years ago. America has eaten the flesh of its children’s children and having grown a taste for it, we now only beg for more.
So sad, even if you don’t like him as a president, to see old man Joe wandering around in a fog while King Barry and laughing Kamala bask in the adoration of their silly sycophants. Jill Biden should be so ashamed of herself, but I don’t think she knows the meaning.
I didn’t think it possible, but Lindsey Graham makes the South look even worse than it ever has ... and that’s saying something.
Why do the weather people have to be seen on TV? We can see what’s happening without them being on the middle of the TV screen. I guess they feel like they are so very important, but they get the forecast from the National Weather Service like everyone else.
Things here are so bad here, a truckload of Americans was caught sneaking into Mexico.
Our inept government is sending hundreds of billions of dollars to people with false COVID relief claims. The applications for this money were mostly unchecked. What kind of government just hands out billions of working people’s money without even checking? And in a few days ,this same government is asking working people to send more money.
Biden is just like his idol, Obama. Everything bad that happens is somebody else’s fault. In a Democrat’s mind, bad things are somebody else’s fault.
Herschel Walker has a degree in common sense, enough said. | https://www.albanyherald.com/features/squawkbox/article_c29ad1c8-b7a3-11ec-bb55-d70dd3e05117.html | 2022-04-10T21:53:37Z |
(NEXSTAR) – Time for America’s dog owners to start getting more creative.
A new study has determined that “Luna” is the most popular name for dogs in a whopping 35 states. Nationally — and not surprisingly — Luna was also the most common name for dogs in general, followed by Bella, Max, Cooper and Daisy, according to the findings.
Conducted by Bark, a pet-toy company specializing in subscription services for dogs, the study pulled from 10 years of subscriber data and included information on 3.2 million dogs.
Of the 15 states that managed to buck the “Luna” trend, there were only two states — Hawaii and Mississippi — where the most popular dog names were not among the nation’s top 10: Hawaii’s most common name for dogs is Kona (ranked 55th nationally) and Mississippi’s is Sadie (ranked 11th nationally), according to Bark.
“When we analyze the names of dogs by state, the data is surprisingly homogenous,” Bark wrote of its study in a recent blog post. “Regardless of region or political leaning, we have commonality in what we name our pups as Americans, and the most popular name is Luna.”
Bark’s findings on each state’s favored dog name — and the runners-up — are listed below.
In addition to the most popular dog names by state, Bark gathered data on the some of the most popular names by breed, which included the top name for Shih Tzus (Gizmo) and the breed with the most unique name (Huskies, which were the only breed to have names such as “Ghost,” “Shadow,” “Aspen” and “Storm” within the top 20).
More information from Bark, including the 100 most popular dog names in the country and the most popular breeds by state, can be found at the company’s official site. | https://cw33.com/news/nexstar-media-wire/luna-is-the-most-popular-dog-name-in-35-states-according-to-a-new-study/ | 2022-08-07T17:46:19Z |
Duke volleyball player: BYU was slow to respond to racial slurs at game
(AP) - The Duke volleyball player who was subjected to racial slurs during a match at BYU said Sunday that officials onsite didn’t react quickly enough when they were made aware of the behavior during play.
Nor did they adequately address the situation immediately after the match, Rachel Richardson said in a statement posted to her Twitter account.
“No athlete, regardless of their race, should ever be subject to such hostile conditions,” said Richardson, the only Black starter on the Blue Devils team.
BYU banned a fan from all athletic venues on campus Saturday, a day after the match. The fan was not a student but was sitting in the student section.
Richardson, a 19-year-old sophomore from Ellicott City, Maryland, wrote that she didn’t believe the fan’s actions were a reflection of BYU athletes, saying her opponents showed respect and sportsmanship, adding that BYU athletic director Tom Holmoe had reacted quickly once he was notified.
“This is not the first time this has happened in college athletics and sadly it likely will not be the last time,” Richardson said. “However, each time it happens we as student athletes, coaches, fans, and administrators have a chance to educate those who act in hateful ways.”
Richardson also responded to the idea that some people would have liked to see Duke’s team respond quickly, such as by refusing to continue playing in what became a 3-1 victory for BYU.
“Although the heckling eventually took a mental toll on me, I refused to allow it to stop me from doing what I love to do and what I came to BYU to do: which was to play volleyball,” Richardson said. “I refused to allow those racist bigots to feel any degree of satisfaction from thinking that their comments had ‘gotten to me,’ So, I pushed through and finished the game.
“Therefore, on behalf of my African American teammates and I, we do not want to receive pity or to be looked at as helpless. We do not feel as though we are victims of some tragic unavoidable event. We are proud to be young African American women; we are proud to be Duke student athletes, and we are proud to stand up against racism.”
The Duke team released a statement, saying:
“We stand against any form of racism, bigotry or hatred. As a program we have worked extensively to create an inclusive and safe environment where our student-athletes feel heard and supported but are not naive to the fact that there is always work to be done.”
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/08/29/duke-volleyball-player-byu-was-slow-respond-racial-slurs-game/ | 2022-08-29T14:43:19Z |
...HEAT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM NOON EDT /11 AM CDT/
TODAY TO 8 PM EDT /7 PM CDT/ THIS EVENING...
* WHAT...Heat index values up to 113.
* WHERE...Portions of southeast Alabama, south central and
southwest Georgia and Big Bend and Panhandle Florida.
* WHEN...From noon EDT /11 AM CDT/ to 8 PM EDT /7 PM CDT/ today.
* IMPACTS...Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat
illnesses to occur.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out
of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young
children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles
under any circumstances.
Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When
possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or
evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat
stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when
possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational
Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent
rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone
overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.
Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.
&&
Tommy Lee bows out half way through first reunion tour show because of broken ribs
Tommy Lee says his doctor told him not to perform, but no way was he missing the beginning of the Mötley Crüe reunion tour.
The group performed Thursday at Truist Park in Atlanta, Georgia, and Lee was only able to make it a few songs in before he made the announcement to the audience that that he had broken four ribs about two weeks ago.
"But I've been resting and healing and even though the doctor tells me I shouldn't play at all, you know I'm stubborn and I'll beast through the pain every show for as many songs as I can," he wrote in a statement posted.
According to the post, Black Sabbath drummer Tommy Clufetos would be subbing for Lee.
"We've all been waiting years for this moment and there's no way I'm missing this!," Lee wrote. "On with the show."
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DeSoto Heritage Festival Grand Parade cancelled
Published: Apr. 30, 2022 at 6:49 PM EDT|Updated: 9 hours ago
SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - The DeSoto Heritage Festival Grand Parade has been cancelled today due to inclement weather.
Organizers of the festival stated that there will be no rescheduling of the event this year. Attendees who were hoping to come are more than welcome to show up at the next festival though, set to take place in 2023.
Copyright 2022 WWSB. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/04/30/desoto-heritage-festival-grand-parade-cancelled/ | 2022-05-01T08:32:17Z |
BELOIT, Wis., June 17, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- On the 1st anniversary of its inaugural sold-out event where over 1,000 supporters attended in 2021, The Coalition for Canceled Priests (CFCP) is hosting a full-day conference, focused on the cancel culture of holy and faithful priests this year on June 23 and June 24, 2022.
"It says a great deal about the state of our Holy Church when over 1,000 faithful Catholics with only a two-week notice attended our inaugural event on June 24, 2021 in support of canceled priests," said Father John Lovell, co-founder of the CFCP. "It proved to us the amount of anger and sadness faithful Catholics have when priests are removed from ministry for actually standing up for the Magisterium. We have only seen support grow from there, which is why we knew we had to organize a full-day conference for our supporters."
Our anniversary conference, Finding Hope in the Desert, takes place on Friday, June 24th, 2022. It is preceded by a banquet on the evening of Thursday, June 23rd.
We're pleased to host Jesse Romero as the keynote speaker for the opening banquet. The full-day conference on Friday features canceled priests and prominent Catholic speakers, such as Dr. Peter Kwasniewski, Fr. James Altman, Liz Yore, Raymond De Souza, David Gray, and Dr. Janet Smith.
Tickets for the Friday conference are available at www.canceledpriests.org.
CFCP was formed in 2021 on the feast day of Saint John the Baptist. Since its inception, priests throughout the United States and across the world have contacted the organization for both spiritual and temporal support.
The Coalition for Canceled Priests (CFCP) is dedicated to spiritually and materially supporting faithful priests who seek to return to active ministry after being unjustly canceled by their bishops. CFCP is lay-driven and relies upon prayer, fasting, and actions by an array of contributors who rigorously defend these priests and fight back against errant bishops. CFCP is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization.
For other questions or inquiries please email Contact@CanceledPriests.org or call 312-761-2149
Father John Lovell, other canceled priests, and other representatives are available for interviews.
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SOURCE Coalition for Canceled Priests | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/17/coalition-canceled-priests-is-hosting-1st-anniversary-conference/ | 2022-06-17T14:51:53Z |
Trucker blockade snarls US-Mexico border over Texas order
AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — One of the busiest trade ports on the U.S.-Mexico border remained effectively closed Wednesday as frustration and traffic snarls mounted over new orders by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott requiring extra inspections of commercial trucks as part of the Republican’s sprawling border security operation.
Since Monday, Mexican truckers have blocked the Pharr-Reynosa International Bridge in protest after Abbott last week directed state troopers to stop and inspect trucks coming into Texas. Unusually long backups — some lasting 12 hours or longer — have stacked up elsewhere along Texas’ roughly 1,200-mile (1,930-kilometer) border.
Not even a week into the inspections, the Mexican government said that Abbott’s order was causing “serious damage” to trade, and that cross-border traffic had plummeted to a third of normal levels. On Wednesday, White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki called Abbott’s order “unnecessary and redundant.”
The gridlock is the fallout of an initiative that Abbott says is needed to curb human trafficking and the flow of drugs. But critics question how the inspections are meeting that objective, while business owners and experts complain of financial losses and warn U.S. grocery shoppers could notice shortages as soon as this week.
Frustration is also spreading within members of Abbott’s own party: Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller, a Republican, called the inspections a “catastrophic policy” that is forcing some trucks to reroute hundreds of miles to Arizona.
“I do describe it as a crisis, because this is not the normal way of doing business,” said Hidalgo County Judge Richard Cortez, whose county includes the bridge in Pharr. “You’re talking about billions of dollars. When you stop that process, I mean, there are many, many, many, many people that are affected.”
The shutdowns and slowdowns have set off some of the widest backlash to date of Abbott’s multibillion-dollar border operation, which the two-term governor has made the cornerstone of his administration. Texas already has thousands of state troopers and National Guard members on the border and has converted prisons into jails for migrants arrested on state trespassing charges.
Abbott warned last week that inspections would “dramatically slow” border traffic, but he hasn’t addressed the backups or port shutdowns since then. His office didn’t reply to a message seeking comment left Tuesday, but the governor planned a press conference for Wednesday afternoon in Laredo.
The disruptions at some of the world’s busiest international trade ports could pose economic and political threats to Abbott, who is seeking a third term in November. Democrat Beto O’Rourke, the former presidential candidate who is running against Abbott for governor, said during a stop in Pharr on Tuesday that the inspections were doing nothing to halt the flow of migrants and were worsening supply chain issues.
He was joined by Joe Arevalo, owner of Keystone Cold, a cold-storage warehouse on the border. He said that although Texas state troopers have always inspected some trucks crossing the border “they’ve never, ever, ever held up a complete system or a complete supply chain.”
An estimated 3,000 trucks cross the Pharr bridge on a normal day, according to the National Freight Transportation Chamber. The Pharr bridge is the largest land port for produce, such as leafy green vegetables, entering the U.S.
Mexico supplies about two-thirds of the produce sold in Texas.
“We’re living through a nightmare, and we’re already suffering through a very delicate supply chain from the pandemic and to try to regrow the business,” Arevalo said.
The additional inspections are conducted by the Texas Department of Public Safety, which said that as of Monday, it had inspected more than 3,400 commercial vehicles and placed more than 800 “out of service” for violations that included defective brakes, tires and lighting. It made no mention of whether the truck inspections had turned up migrants or drugs.
The order’s impact quickly spread beyond Texas: U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials confirmed Tuesday that there was another blockade at the Mexican customs facility at the Santa Teresa port of entry in southern New Mexico, not far from El Paso. Those protests are misguided since New Mexico has nothing to do with Texas’ inspection policies, said Jerry Pacheco, executive director of the International Business Accelerator and president of the Border Industrial Association.
He said the protests were costing businesses millions of dollars a day.
“Everybody down here is on a just-in-time inventory system,” Pancheo said. “It’s going to affect all of us, all of us in the United States. Your car parts are going to be delivered late, your computer — if you ordered a Dell or HP tablet, those are going to be disrupted.”
Ed Anderson, a professor at the McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas at Austin, compared the disruptions to those caused by February’s trucker blockade in Canada that forced auto plants on both sides of the border to shut down or scale back production. During that protest, trucks looking for other entries to cross into the U.S. wound up causing congestion at other bridges, a scenario that Anderson said might now be repeated on the southern border.
Anderson said consumers would likely begin noticing the effects by the end of this week, if not sooner.
“Either prices are going to spike or shelves are going to be low,” he said.
____
Associated Press reporters Acacia Coronado. Susan Montoya Bryan in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Mark Stevenson in Mexico City contributed to this report.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.kxii.com/2022/04/13/frustration-grows-over-truck-backlogs-texas-mexico-border/ | 2022-04-13T15:28:29Z |
HUDSON, Wis. (AP) — A 52-year-old Minnesota man was charged Monday with killing a teenager and stabbing four other people in a dispute that allegedly began with a lost cellphone during a weekend tubing excursion on a western Wisconsin river.
Investigators said in court documents that Nicolae Miu, of Prior Lake, Minnesota, attacked the group after people accused him of approaching children in the water. Miu told investigators that he had acted in self-defense.
He faces one count of first-degree intentional homicide and four counts of attempted first-degree intentional homicide in St. Croix County, which sits along Wisconsin’s border with Minnesota. The judge set bond at $1 million cash for Miu, who appeared at the hearing by video.
The family of the teen who died has identified him as 17-year-old Isaac Schuman, of Stillwater, Minnesota. He would have been a senior at Stillwater High School this fall.
The victims were tubing on Saturday down the Apple River northeast of Stillwater, which is about 25 miles (40 kilometers) east of Minneapolis when they were attacked, sheriff’s officials said. Those wounded were two men from Luck, Wisconsin, ages 20 and 22, a 24-year-old woman from Burnsville, Minnesota, and a 22-year-old man from Elk River, Minnesota.
Minnesota Public Radio obtained a copy of the criminal complaint against Miu. According to the complaint, Miu was tubing down the river with his wife and several other people. Another group of people also was tubing on the river.
Miu told investigators that he was using a snorkel and goggles to look for a lost cellphone. Video and witness accounts indicate bystanders accused him of approaching children in the water. Witnesses said Miu was bothering a group of juveniles and others told him to leave, the complaint states.
Instead of leaving, Miu punched a woman and a fight ensued, according to the complaint. Video shows him falling into the river, emerging with a knife and then stabbing a person.
“There was enough blood in the river that the water turned a red tint in places,” the complaint states.
Miu told investigators that he was provoked, according to the complaint. He said at least two others in the crowd had knives and he took one of the knives away from one of the males in the crowd but didn’t know what happened to it.
“They attacked me,” he said. “I was in self-defense mode.”
The Burnsville victim, Ryhley Mattison, wrote in a GoFundMe post that she was tubing with her friends when they came across a group asking for help. She said there was an older man who was “being inappropriate and was asked to leave, but wouldn’t,” and that he stabbed her and several other people.
The victims from Luck have been released from the hospital, St. Croix County Sheriff Scott Knudson said Monday.
Schuman’s family said in a statement that he was an honor roll student and was preparing to apply to several universities to study electrical engineering.
“He had an incredibly bright future ahead of him and we are all heartbroken and devastated beyond words that his future has been tragically and senselessly cut short,” the family said. “We very much appreciate the overwhelming outpouring of love and support from our friends, Isaac’s friends and the Stillwater Community.”
Stillwater High School Principal Robert Bach said in an e-mail to families that “we extend our deepest sympathy to the family and everyone impacted directly or indirectly.”
Bach told parents the school would help them and their children work through the difficult process.
“The death of a classmate, even for those who didn’t know them well, will impact each student differently, and all reactions need to be addressed with great care and support,” he wrote. “We encourage you to talk with your children about this sad news and help them to process their feelings.” | https://cw33.com/news/nexstar-media-wire/minnesota-man-charged-with-killing-teen-stabbing-4-others-on-river/ | 2022-08-02T14:36:20Z |
PARSIPPANY, N.J., July 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Ferrero Group, a global sweet-packaged foods leader, today announced the appointment of Alanna Cotton as President and Chief Business Officer of Ferrero North America. Cotton will be responsible for Ferrero's business in the U.S., Canada, and Caribbean, building upon its growing footprint and capabilities for iconic brands like Kinder, Butterfinger, Nutella and Tic Tac, and cookie favorites such as Keebler, Famous Amos, and Mother's. She takes on the role effective September 1, 2022.
Cotton, who will report directly to Lapo Civiletti, CEO of Ferrero Group, joins the company to support Ferrero's global business strategy of strengthening its position in the sweet packaged food category. Ferrero North America, an important growth driver for the company, is the fastest growing confectionery company in the market, experiencing double digit growth and guiding multiple brand turnarounds over the years. The company is also expanding its capabilities in North America, with a new Innovation Center with R&D Lab in the U.S. and a chocolate processing plant and Kinder Bueno line in Bloomington, Illinois. In addition, with support from the Southwestern Ontario Development Fund, Ferrero is creating new jobs and automation at its Brantford, Ontario plant.
Cotton joins Ferrero most recently from The Coca-Cola Company where she was President of Operations for Central & Eastern Europe, serving as general manager for 26 diverse countries and over 150 brands. Prior to that, Cotton served as Senior Vice President and General Manager at Samsung Electronics America, where she led the high growth segments of the consumer technology markets, including personal computing, virtual reality, wearables, and mobile audio. She has also held executive positions at PepsiCo and Procter & Gamble where she can be credited with leading large-scale businesses and driving innovation and digital transformation across the organizations.
In addition, Cotton holds an MBA from Stanford University and a B.S. in Environmental Engineering from Northwestern University.
Cotton replaces Todd Siwak, who has decided to return to private equity and is stepping down from his role as President and Chief Business Officer of Ferrero North America.
"I'm excited to join Ferrero North America and lead this incredible team and portfolio of beloved brands on its continued growth trajectory," said Cotton. "The company's global presence and rapid expansion on the continent is impressive and I'm thrilled to help move the business forward in this new chapter."
Follow @FerreroNACorp on Twitter and @FerreroNACorp on Instagram.
About Ferrero
The Ferrero Group brings joy to people around the world with beloved treats including Kinder, Nutella, Ferrero Rocher and Tic Tac. Ferrero Group is one of the world's largest sweet-packaged food companies, with over 35 iconic brands sold in more than 170 countries. More than 35,000 "Ferrerians" are committed to helping people celebrate life's special moments with high-quality products. Commitment to the planet and communities in which we operate are at the heart of Ferrero Group's family culture. Our programs and partnerships ensure our work is environmentally sustainable and beneficial to local communities.
Ferrero entered the North American market in 1969 and has grown to 5,100 employees in eight offices and 12 plants and warehouses across the United States, Canada and the Caribbean. It has expanded its presence and portfolio with the addition of iconic brands such as Butterfinger®, CRUNCH®, Keebler®, Famous Amos®, Mother's Cookies, and other distinctive cookie and chocolate brands. Follow @FerreroNACorp on Twitter and Instagram. www.ferreronorthamerica.com
CONTACT:
Cheryll Forsatz
cheryll.forsatz@ferrero.com
(732) 672-5917
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SOURCE Ferrero North America | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/28/ferrero-group-names-consumer-packaged-goods-leader-alanna-cotton-president-amp-chief-business-officer-north-american-business/ | 2022-07-28T15:43:32Z |
- Revenue of RMB 53.96 million mainly driven by the commercial launch of XPOVIO® (selinexor) in Mainland China on May 13, 2022
- Adjusted loss reduced to RMB 126 million for the first six months of 2022 from RMB 210 million in the same period last year
- Cash and bank balances of RMB 2.151 billion, along with near term revenue growth continue to support operations and advance pipeline programs
SHANGHAI and HONG KONG, Aug. 30, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Antengene Corporation Limited ("Antengene" SEHK: 6996.HK), a leading innovative, commercial-stage global biopharmaceutical company dedicated to discovering, developing and commercializing first-in-class and/or best-in-class medicines for hematology and oncology, recently announced its interim results for the six months ended June 30, 2022, and provided corporate updates on key events and achievements since the start of 2022.
"As we celebrate the fifth anniversary of Antengene's founding, we are delivering on our long-term vision to build a global, multi-product biopharmaceutical company that is successfully developing novel and commercializing ground-breaking products in oncology/hematology. I am pleased to report that we delivered excellent 2022 interim results across the three main components of our long-term success, in our commercial product, clinical pipeline, and discovery," said Dr. Jay Mei, Antengene's Founder, Chairman and CEO. "So far this year, we successfully launched our lead first-in-class/only-in-class product, XPOVIO®, in Mainland China and reported product revenue of RMB 53.96 million. The strong sales momentum highlights Antengene's transformation into a commercial organization and demonstrates our team's robust commercialization capabilities in China and the APAC markets. In addition, we progressed three first-in-human programs, and plan to advance one to two more this year. Furthermore, we have entered into two collaborations to evaluate new treatment combinations and innovative new technologies."
Dr. Mei continued, "Looking ahead, we are increasingly enthusiastic about XPOVIO® and believe it is an enabler for Antengene's future growth. Since July 2021, the product has been approved in 4 markets, incorporated in practice guidelines by 5 leading international medical societies, and is currently being studied in 8 trials to substantially broaden the use to encompass earlier lines of therapy, new treatment regimens, and additional hematology, and potentially solid tumor indications."
Dr. Mei commented further, "Turning to our clinical pipeline of differentiated, first-in-class/best-in-class programs, before the end of the year, we intend to report critical clinical data on two mid-stage programs – ATG-016 (eltanexor), a next generation XPO1 inhibitor and ATG-008 (onatasertib), an mTORC1/2 inhibitor, and one Phase I dose escalation program for our ERK1/2 inhibitor, and file one additional IND for an antibody drug conjugate to Claudin 18.2 and completing preparations for an IND filing for the exciting 'don't eat me signal' blocker, anti-CD24 antibody. Our team of over 400 employees across China, APAC regions, and the US, plus our core capabilities in discovery, development, and manufacturing, support our deep and productive early-stage research that is poised to deliver a steady flow of opportunities based on a broad range of novel targets, modalities, innovative technologies, and partnerships."
In conclusion, Dr. Mei said "Looking forward, we believe our cash and bank balances of RMB 2.151 billion, strong near-term revenue growth potential and careful budgetary control will enable overall company growth and development, and support our operations. Cancer is a disease that knows no borders, so we are driven to develop advanced cancer therapies and innovative medicines with differentiated profiles for the benefit of broad patient populations globally and to deliver value for our investors. Antengene is optimistic about this year and the future based on the dedication of our team, and collaborators all around the world. We look forward to updating you on our progress throughout the rest of this year and in the future."
Interim Financial Results and Highlights
For the interim period ended June 30, 2022, Antengene reported results, compared to the interim period ended June 30, 2021:
- Revenues of RMB 53.96 million, mainly attributable to the commercial launch of XPOVIO® in Mainland China on May 13, 2022 compared to nil for the comparable period in 2021
- Adjusted loss of RMB 126 million, compared to RMB 210 million for the comparable period in 2021.
- Cash, bank balances and cash management products were RMB 2.151 billion as of June 30, 2022 compared to RMB 2.370 billion as on December 31, 2021.
XPOVIO® Key Performance Indicators in APAC markets as of June 30, 2022
- Approved in 4 markets: Mainland China, South Korea, Singapore, and Australia for hematologic cancer indications, including in combinations with existing regimens for the treatment of relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (R/R MM as part of established multi-drug regimens) and as a monotherapy for the treatment of relapsed/refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (R/R DLBCL).
- Broad acceptance by major clinical guidelines: 6 regimens have received 18 recommendations by the clinical guidelines of 5 leading medical societies, including the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Guidelines, the Chinese Society of Clinical Oncology (CSCO) Guidelines, the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) Guidelines, the International Myeloma Working Group (IMWG) Guidelines and the Guidelines for the Treatment and Diagnosis of Multiple Myeloma in China.
- 8 clinical studies of XPOVIO® are underway, including 4 registrational studies, 2 of which are global studies jointly conducted by Antengene and Karyopharm Therapeutics Inc.
- MARCH results were presented at the European Hematology Association (EHA) Annual Meeting and published in BMC Medicine.
- Well-prepared commercial team of nearly 190 personnel with a proven track record of commercial success in China and APAC has paved the way to a successful launch of XPOVIO®. In addition, we have developed a deep understanding of the dynamics and key stakeholders in our target markets, including KOLs, physicians, and leading industry organizations.
Mid to Late-Stage Programs (Antengene has certain Asia-Pacific rights)
Antengene is exploring two members of the novel XPO1 inhibitors plus a novel mTORC 1/2 dual inhibitor.
- Selinexor (ATG-010, first-in-class XPO1 inhibitor): We are highly committed to the further development of XPOVIO®, with an extensive program in MM and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), including a number of combination developments, that can help expand our label and market. The drug is being tested as a monotherapy or as an add-on to standard therapy in MM, DLBCL, as well as other hematologic malignancies. These programs aim to potentially improve response rates and expand the clinical utility of the drug.
- In May 2022, the Phase I/II SWATCH trial was designed to evaluate selinexor in combination with lenalidomide plus rituximab (SR2) for the treatment of R/R DLBCL and relapsed/refractory indolent non-Hodgkin lymphoma (R/R iNHL) dosed its first patient in China.
- Data from the pivotal MARCH study in patients with R/R MM were presented at the 2022 European Hematology Association (EHA) Annual Meeting, and published in BMC Medicine.
- Eltanexor (ATG-016, second generation XPO1 inhibitor)
- Phase II segment of the KCP-8602 trial in solid tumors/hematologic malignancies is currently enrolling patients with high-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) in China.
- Onatasertib (ATG-008, mTORC1/2 inhibitor)
- Results from the Phase I/II TORCH-2 study of ATG-008 plus toripalimab in solid tumors were announced at the 2022 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting.
Early-Stage Clinical Programs (Antengene has global rights)
Antengene's early-stage clinical programs have differentiated features that could provide distinct competitive advantages to other products in the areas
- ATG-017 (ERK1/2 inhibitor) has potential synergy with checkpoint inhibitors and KRAS inhibitors. The Phase I ERASER study in patients with advanced solid tumors and hematologic malignancies is underway in Australia. Antengene is collaborating clinically with Bristol Myers Squibb to evaluate ATG-017 in combination with Opdivo® (nivolumab) in patients with advanced solid tumors.
- ATG-101 (PD-L1/4-1BB bispecific antibody) was designed to block the binding of immunosuppressive PD-1/PD-L1 and activate immune effectors. The multicenter Phase I PROBE study in patients metastatic/advanced solid tumors and B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (B-NHL) is ongoing in the US, Australia, and China.
- ATG-037 (CD73 small molecule inhibitor) reduces immunosuppression in the tumor microenvironment. Enrollment in the Phase I STAMINA trial of ATG-037 in patients with locally advanced or metastatic solid tumors is underway in Australia.
- ATG-018 (ATR small molecule inhibitor) limits DNA damage repair mechanisms in tumor cells. The Phase I ATRIUM Study for the patients with advanced solid tumors and hematologic malignancies dosed its first patient in Australia.
Internal Discovery Program
- IND Candidates for the Remainder of 2022: ATG-022 (Claudin 18.2 antibody-drug conjugate). IND filing expected in 2H2022.
- 2023 Potential IND/CTA Filings: ATG-031 (anti-CD24 monoclonal antibody).
- Early Stage, IND Track Programs: ATG-027 (B7H3/PD-L1 bispecific antibody), ATG-032 (LILRB antibody) and ATG-041 (Axl-Mer inhibitor)
Business Development
Antengene's business development strategy is focused on partnerships to facilitate clinical collaborations, in-license novel programs, or enable access to novel platform/drug development technologies to complement and enrich our in-house capabilities.
- Entered into a clinical collaboration with BeiGene, Ltd. to evaluate XPOVIO® in combination with tislelizumab in a Phase I/II trial in patients with T and NK Cell lymphoma.
- Entered into a research collaboration with Celularity Inc. to evaluate the potential therapeutic synergy from combining one of Antengene's novel bispecific antibodies with Celularity's cryopreserved human placental hematopoietic stem cell-derived NK cell therapy platform.
- Clinical Programs Poised to Deliver Proof-of-Concept Data in 2022 and 2023 (originated in-house/through partners): The Antengene pipeline has been developed with a particular interest in addressing those mechanisms that underly resistant diseases, and how we can reverse those resistance mechanisms, or modulate the tumor microenvironment in a way that allows the regaining of control of cancer growth. This portfolio is extremely well positioned to allow us to evaluate proprietary combinations, from our pipeline.
Corporate Updates
- Biologics Drug Discovery Laboratory in Hangzhou Qiantang New Area: The construction of the 2,600 m2 biologics drug discovery laboratory in Hangzhou was completed and became fully operational in May 2022. This laboratory focuses on new antibody discovery. Currently, there are 16 scientists on-board.
- Biologics Manufacturing Facility in Hangzhou Qiantang New Area: The ground-breaking ceremony for the biologics manufacturing facility in Hangzhou was held in August 2022. This would be a staged construction project spreading over three years, from 2022 to 2025.
Financial Results
Cash, bank balances and cash management products: Cash, bank balances and cash management products on June 30, 2022 were RMB 2.151 billion as compared to RMB 2.370 billion on December 31, 2021.
Revenue: Revenue for the period ended June 30, 2022 was RMB 53.96 million as compared to nil for the comparable period in 2021.
The increase in revenue is primarily attributable to the commercial launch of XPOVIO®, a first-in-class XPO-1 inhibitor, in Mainland China on May 13, 2022.
Research and development costs: Research and development costs for the period ended June 30, 2022 were RMB 179 million as compared to RMB 135 million for the comparable period in 2021.
The increase is primarily attributable to increased drug development expenses and expansion of R&D personnel.
Selling and distribution expense: Selling and distribution expenses for the period ended June 30, 2022 were RMB 90.4 million compared to RMB 0.1 million for the comparable period in 2021.
The increase is primarily attributable to increased employee costs and market development expenses to launch our lead product, XPOVIO®.
Administrative expenses: Administrative expenses for the period ended June 30, 2022 were RMB 85.9 million compared to RMB 78.5 million for the comparable period in 2021.
The increase is primarily attributable to increased professional fees in relation to operating and administrative activities.
Adjusted loss: Adjusted loss for the period ended June 30, 2022 was RMB 126 million compared to RMB 210 million for the comparable period in 2021.
Outlook for 2022 and Beyond: Business and Pipeline Objectives
- 2 Additional NDA approvals of XPOVIO® expected: Hong Kong and Taiwan
- PBS listing (Australia Reimbursement) of XPOVIO® in Australia expected by the end of 2022 (Australia Reimbursement)
- Obtaining the complete data set for expansion cohorts of the Phase II TORCH-2 study: ATG-008 in combination with toripalimab
- Interim data read-out for Phase II study: ATG-016 in patients with MDS
- Preliminary data read-out in first-in-human studies of the ERASER study of ATG-017
- Near-term IND filings: ATG-022 (Claudin 18.2 ADC), ATG-031 (anti-CD24 monoclonal antibody)
About Antengene
Antengene Corporation Limited ("Antengene", SEHK: 6996.HK) is a leading commercial-stage R&D-driven global biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery, development, manufacturing and commercialization of innovative first-in-class/best-in-class therapeutics for the treatment of hematologic malignancies and solid tumors, in realizing its vision of "Treating Patients Beyond Borders".
Since 2017, Antengene has built a broad and expanding pipeline of 15 clinical and preclinical assets, of which 10 are global rights assets, and 5 came with rights for Asia Pacific markets including the Greater China region. To date, Antengene has obtained 24 investigational new drug (IND) approvals in the U.S. and Asia, and submitted 6 new drug applications (NDAs) in multiple Asia Pacific markets, with the NDA for XPOVIO® (selinexor) already approved in mainland China, South Korea, Singapore and Australia.
Forward-looking statements
The forward-looking statements made in this article relate only to the events or information as of the date on which the statements are made in this article. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. You should read this article completely and with the understanding that our actual future results or performance may be materially different from what we expect. In this article, statements of, or references to, our intentions or those of any of our Directors or our Company are made as of the date of this article. Any of these intentions may alter in light of future development. For a further discussion of these and other factors that could cause future results to differ materially from any forward-looking statement, see the section titled "Risk Factors" in our periodic reports filed with the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and the other risks and uncertainties described in the Company's Annual Report for year-end December 31, 2021, and subsequent filings with the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.
For more information, please contact:
Investor Contacts:
Donald Lung
E-mail: Donald.Lung@antengene.com
Mobile: +86 18420672158
PR Contacts:
Peter Qian
E-mail: Peter.Qian@antengene.com
Mobile: +86 13062747000
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SOURCE Antengene Corporation Limited | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/31/antengene-announces-interim-2022-financial-results-provides-corporate-update/ | 2022-08-31T01:03:11Z |
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