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‘What goes up will come down’: Wildlife Center of Virginia reminds people of impact of balloon releases
WAYNESBORO, Va. (WHSV) - We are in full swing with the season of celebrating, whether it be graduations, proms, or weddings.
The Wildlife Center of Virginia wants to remind the community of the potential impacts of these events. Their main message: “What goes up will come down.”
Staff say balloons are the most common item hurting the wildlife they take into their facility for treatment, as many animals see the plastic pieces and mistake them for food.
“Those balloon fragments, those confetti fragments, plastic, and latex, unfortunately, look pretty similar to those prey items. So those animals would ingest that litter that garbage which can cause intestinal blockages and possibly result in starvation and death,” Public Affairs Manager Alex Wehrung explained.
Wehrung adds the Center has a whole section of their website dedicated to education on this type of litter, and suggests alternatives to balloon releases like tree or flower planting, and his favorite, bubble blowing.
To learn more, click here.
Copyright 2022 WHSV. All rights reserved. | https://www.whsv.com/2022/05/11/what-goes-up-will-come-down-wildlife-center-virginia-reminds-people-impact-balloon-releases/ | 2022-05-11T16:13:29Z |
Complementary Capabilities will Advance Patient Outcomes, Health Equity and Medical Breakthroughs
CHARLOTTE, N.C. and DOWNERS GROVE, Ill. and MILWAUKEE, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Advocate Aurora Health and Atrium Health announced today their plans to come together to create a leading health and wellness delivery system to best meet patients' needs by redefining how, when and where care is delivered. The organizations cited their complementary strengths, diverse experiences and enhanced capabilities as key enablers to improve lives.
"The world of healthcare as we know it is changing at warp speed – and it is rapidly becoming more digital, personalized, scientific and complex," said Eugene A. Woods, president and chief executive officer of Atrium Health. "This strategic combination will enable us to deepen our commitments to health equity, create more jobs and opportunities for our teammates and communities, launch new, game-changing innovations and so much more. Together, we will manifest a new future that significantly elevates the care we provide to every hand we hold and every life we touch."
"Together, we can do more, be better and go faster," said Jim Skogsbergh, president and chief executive officer of Advocate Aurora Health. "This combination harnesses our complementary strengths and expertise of our doctors, nurses and teammates to lead health care's transformation for those we are so proud to serve."
Leadership pointed to the organizations' combined clinical excellence – including in medical research and population health – as well as advanced capabilities in data analytics and digital consumer infrastructure as key value accelerators, which will allow them to make a positive impact across six key areas: clinical pre-eminence and safety, health equity, affordability, next-generation workforce, learning and discovery, and environmental sustainability. Highlights include a $2 billion pledge to disrupt the root causes of health inequities across both rural and urban underserved communities, their commitment to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030 and a pledge to create more than 20,000 new jobs across the communities they serve.
The new organization will have a combined footprint across Illinois, Wisconsin, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Alabama. It will serve 5.5 million patients, operate more than 1,000 sites of care and 67 hospitals, employ more than 7,600 physicians and nearly 150,000 teammates, and have combined annual revenues of more than $27 billion.
The Advocate Aurora Health and Atrium Health Boards of Directors unanimously approved the agreement, which is subject to regulatory review.
"We've long admired Atrium Health's nationally recognized clinical excellence and commitment to health equity," said Michele Richardson, chair of Advocate Aurora Health's board of directors. "Given our combined reach, coupled with our talented physicians, nurses and staff, we are uniquely positioned to lead health care's transformation and create a platform for innovation."
"Advocate Aurora Health has a well-earned reputation as a national leader in diversity, equity and inclusion, as well as its value-based approach to care that has led to better outcomes and more affordable health care," said Edward J. Brown III, chair of Atrium Health's board of directors. "We share a bold vision for the future as we aspire to create a consumer-first system aimed at improving the lives of individuals across the diverse communities we serve."
A board of directors comprising an equal number of members from Advocate Aurora and Atrium Health will govern the enterprise. Brown will chair the board of directors until December 31, 2023, and Richardson will assume leadership for the immediately succeeding two-year term. Skogsbergh and Woods will serve as co-CEOs for the first 18 months, at which point Skogsbergh will retire and Woods will become the sole CEO.
The combined organization will transition to a new brand, Advocate Health, with the Advocate Health and Atrium Health brands continuing to be used in their respective local markets. Wake Forest University School of Medicine will be the academic core of the combined entity. The new organization will be headquartered in Charlotte, while continuing to maintain a strong organizational presence in Chicago and Milwaukee, including a new institute for health equity located in Milwaukee.
About Advocate Aurora Health + Atrium Health
The entities are creating a joint operating company to be known as Advocate Health. Existing assets will remain in each of the respective states. No assets will be transferred as part of the combination. Neither Advocate Aurora Health nor Atrium Health has agreed to assume any liability for or otherwise guarantee the other organization's debt as part of the transaction. Any refinancing would be dependent on market conditions, management considerations and other factors. The combined system will deliver nearly $5 billion in annual community benefit, including charity care and other forms of uncompensated and undercompensated care. A national leader in value-based care with 2.2 million managed lives across 15 Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs), four Clinically Integrated Networks (CINs) and nearly 60 value-based contracts, the new system will employ more than 7,600 physicians – including a broad primary care platform that includes 2,600 providers with a significant virtual and in-person care offering. It collectively employs nearly 150,000 team members and serves as one of the nation's 10 largest graduate medical education programs with nearly 2,000 residents and fellows across 172 programs. Advocate Aurora and Atrium Health have been recognized as a "Best Employer" by Forbes in Illinois, Wisconsin, North Carolina, and South Carolina.
About Advocate Aurora Health
Advocate Aurora Health is one of the 12 largest not-for-profit, integrated health systems in the United States and a leading employer in the Midwest with 75,000 team members, including more than 22,000 nurses and the region's largest employed medical staff and home health organization. Advocate Aurora holds an Aa3 bond rating according to Moody's. A national leader in clinical innovation, health outcomes, consumer experience and value-based care, the system serves nearly 3 million patients annually in Illinois and Wisconsin across more than 500 sites of care. Advocate Aurora is engaged in hundreds of clinical trials and research studies and is nationally recognized for its expertise in cardiology, neurosciences, oncology, and pediatrics. The organization contributed $2.5 billion in charitable care and services to its communities in 2020. We help people live well.
About Atrium Health
Atrium Health is a nationally recognized leader in shaping health outcomes through innovative research, education, and compassionate patient care. Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, Atrium Health is an integrated, nonprofit health system with more than 70,000 teammates serving patients at 40 hospitals and more than 500 care sites. It provides care under the Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist name in the Winston-Salem, North Carolina, region, as well as Atrium Health Navicent and Atrium Health Floyd in Georgia and Alabama. The Charlotte Mecklenburg Hospital Authority, d/b/a Atrium Health, holds an Aa3 bond rating according to Moody's. Atrium Health is renowned for its top-ranked pediatric, cancer and heart care, as well as organ transplants, burn treatments and specialized musculoskeletal programs. A recognized leader in experiential medical education and groundbreaking research, Wake Forest University School of Medicine is the academic core of the enterprise, including Wake Forest Innovations, which is advancing new medical technologies and biomedical discoveries. Atrium Health is also a leading-edge innovator in virtual care and mobile medicine, providing care close to home and in the home. Ranked nationally among U.S. News & World Report's Best Hospitals in eight pediatric specialties and for rehabilitation, Atrium Health has also received the American Hospital Association's Quest for Quality Prize and its 2021 Carolyn Boone Lewis Equity of Care Award, as well as the 2020 Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Health Equity Award for its efforts to reduce racial and ethnic disparities in care. With a commitment to every community it serves, Atrium Health seeks to improve health, elevate hope, and advance healing – for all, providing more than $2 billion per year in free and uncompensated care and other community benefits.
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SOURCE The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Hospital Authority d/b/a Atrium Health | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/advocate-aurora-health-atrium-health-combine/ | 2022-05-11T16:13:38Z |
MONTGOMERY, Ala., May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Southern HVAC Corporation announced the acquisition of AirNow Cooling & Heating on Monday. The acquisition represents Southern HVAC's first acquisition in the state of Alabama and is consistent with their stated goal of being the leading consolidator in the Southeast United States.
For more than three decades, AirNow has offered high-quality, award-winning heating and air conditioning services to homeowners in the greater Montgomery, Millbrook and Prattville areas. Just recently, AirNow has started to offer electrical service and Generac generator installation to their thousands of customers. The Company will retain its iconic branding and exceptional customer service, while gaining access to industry-leading training, sales, marketing and operational resources.
"We evaluated several potential partners and ultimately chose to sell to Southern HVAC because they offered the best opportunity for our employees," said James Merritt, CEO of AirNow Cooling & Heating. "This is going to be a great opportunity for our managers, technicians, installers and office staff."
"We are thrilled to welcome the AirNow team into the Southern family. After studying the Montgomery market, it was obvious that these guys were the clear leaders in customer service and culture. James has done a tremendous job of putting a great team in place to continue the successful growth going forward," said Jarrod Brinker, Vice President of Acquisitions at Southern HVAC. "Our goal is to partner with management to continue to grow the AirNow brand throughout Montgomery, Prattville and Millbrook while providing each employee with the tools and training needed to advance their careers. Customers can expect the same great service they have always enjoyed."
Montgomery area homeowners can learn more about AirNow's products and services through their website, www.airnowhvac.com or by calling (334) 285-7065.
Headquartered in Maitland, Florida, Southern HVAC operates heating, air conditioning, plumbing and electrical home service businesses in the United States. As part of the broader Southern HVAC team, AirNow joins Southern HVAC's family of seventeen other service brands across eight states.
Since its inception in 2016, Southern HVAC Corporation has remained one of the home service industry's premier growth platforms. Southern HVAC's strategy focuses on driving both organic initiatives and an accretive acquisition strategy focused on industry-leading brands in the southern United States. For more information about Southern HVAC's acquisition program, visit SouthernHVAC.com/acquisitions.
CONTACT: info@SouthernHVAC.net
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SOURCE Southern HVAC | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/airnow-cooling-amp-heating-montgomery-alabama-acquired-by-southern-hvac/ | 2022-05-11T16:13:44Z |
Aloft Geo Portal Brings New Drone Airspace Mapping Functionality to State, Local and Commercial Stakeholders
SILVER SPRING, Md., May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Aloft Technologies today announced the introduction of the Aloft Geo Portal that aims to close the gap between FAA airspace rules and local ground rules for drone operations nationwide. Verified users of the portal will be able to upload and manage airspace and ground space advisories that once authenticated, will publish to the Aloft data network including all Aloft web and mobile apps including B4UFLY.
In the initial phase of introduction, new submissions will publish on a rolling basis with the first set of submissions targeted to publish in June. An authoritative data set that covers all air and ground requirements is a necessity for all drone flight, and fundamental to the future of drone delivery and air taxi use cases.
"We're connecting the dots between drone operators, local governments and comprehensive rules of operations to the largest and most active drone flight data network. As it exists today, there's a major information awareness gap in the industry and for drone pilots everywhere that makes compliance elusive. Aloft aims to solve this problem as this is a missing piece for UTM systems across the globe," said Aloft CEO and Founder Jon Hegranes.
Local and state parks are acutely aware of the challenge of enforcing rules and regulations that govern drone operations. Too often the rules are simply not presented to drone pilots broadly enough and rely on posted signs that can be easily missed. Geo Portal puts control of advisories in the hands of verified users and enables them to reach the widest possible audience of drone pilots through Aloft.
To create an account and start publishing advisories, users will need to submit a verifiable email from the organization they work for as well as detailed information on the parameters and basis for the advisory. The portal is live now and accepting submissions at https://geo.aloft.ai. It's free to upload, manage and update advisories.
About Aloft
Formerly known as Kittyhawk, Aloft Technologies is the market leader in drone airspace systems & UTM technologies and powers more than 70% of all LAANC authorizations in the US. Our solutions make it easy to fly safely and operate compliantly at scale. Our dynamic airspace platform connects the largest drone network -- spanning recreational users, enterprise customers, regulators, and UTM partners across the globe.
Learn more at www.aloft.ai.
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SOURCE Aloft | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/aloft-technologies-launches-geospatial-management-tools-its-drone-data-network/ | 2022-05-11T16:13:51Z |
CHARLES TOWN, W.Va., May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- American Public Education, Inc. (NASDAQ: APEI) is proud to celebrate National Nurses Week on May 6 – 12, as one of the nation's leading educators of pre-licensure nurses. This commemorative week honors the many contributions and sacrifices of nurses worldwide.
"Nurses play a vital part in both our healthcare system and community, especially over these past two and a half years, and we thank them for all their hard work and sacrifices," said APEI President and Chief Executive Officer Angela Selden. "We are honored to provide affordable, high-quality education both to create new nurses and to provide learning opportunities for the advancement of all nurses, ensuring each student can achieve their purpose."
APEI-owned institutions have conferred nearly 15,000 pre-licensure nursing degrees since 2019. With a total nursing enrollment of over 10,000 students at its institutions – APEI is committed to helping mitigate the chronic nursing shortage by training students with expanded, robust nursing curriculums at Rasmussen University, Hondros College of Nursing and American Public University System (APUS). Combined, these schools cover a full ladder of nursing curriculum spanning from LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) to MSN (Master of Nursing) and DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice).
New LPN nurses can complete their studies at APEI-owned schools in as little as 15 months, and new RNs (Registered Nurses) can complete studies in as little as 2.5 years (with completion times dependent on number of courses completed each term). Rasmussen students can attend school at one of 23 campuses across 6 states including Florida, Illinois and Minnesota and online; Hondros students can choose one of 7 campuses in Ohio and Indiana; APUS students attend their programs online, save for in-person practicums and shadowing.
About American Public Education
American Public Education, Inc. (Nasdaq: APEI), through its institutions American Public University System (APUS), Rasmussen University, Hondros College of Nursing, and Graduate School USA, educates the service-minded student by providing career-focused higher education and career learning.
APUS, which operates through American Military University and American Public University, is the leading educator to active-duty military and veteran students* and serves approximately 90,000 adult learners worldwide via accessible and affordable higher education. Rasmussen University is a 120-year-old nursing and health sciences-focused institution that serves approximately 15,900 students across its 23 campuses and student service centers in six states and online. It also has schools of Business, Technology, Design, Early Education and Justice Studies.
Hondros College of Nursing focuses on educating pre-licensure nursing students at its six campuses in Ohio and one in Indiana. It is the largest educator of PN (LPN) nurses in the state of Ohio** with approximately 2,400 students. Graduate School USA is a leading training provider to the federal workforce with an extensive portfolio of government agency customers. It serves the federal workforce through customized contract training (B2G) to federal agencies and through open enrollment (B2C) to government professionals.
Both APUS and Rasmussen are institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Hondros is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). GSUSA is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training (ACCET). For additional information, visit www.apei.com.
*Based on FY 2019 Department of Defense tuition assistance and Veterans Administration student enrollment data, as reported by Military Times, 2020.
**Based on information compiled by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing and Ohio Board of Nursing.
Contacts:
Frank Tutalo
American Public Education, Inc.
Director, Public Relations
ftutalo@apei.com
571-358-3042
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SOURCE American Public Education, Inc. | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/american-public-education-inc-one-americas-leading-educators-pre-licensure-nurses-commemorates-nurses-part-national-nursing-week/ | 2022-05-11T16:13:57Z |
NEW YORK , May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and its Consumer Interest Forum (CIF) are pleased to announce the launch of the ANSI Consumer Participation Fund, an initiative that seeks to mitigate financial barriers to consumer engagement in the voluntary consensus standards system.
Five founding contributors have joined ANSI in pledging commitments to seed the fund:
- ASTM International
- The International Association of Plumbing & Mechanical Officials (IAPMO)
- NSF International
- The Toy Association
- Underwriters Laboratories (UL)
Consumer involvement in standards development is vital, not only for providing insights that can improve standards outcomes, but also to help assure the inclusiveness and integrity of the development process. Attracting and engaging consumers in this process often poses a challenge, and both consumer representatives and standards developers cite lack of funding as a crucial barrier to consumer participation in standards development activities.
"Greater participation by consumers in standards development activities has long been one of ANSI's goals, and we hope that providing this much-needed funding for travel expenses and participation fees will have a significant impact in bringing these representatives into the process," said S. Joe Bhatia, ANSI president and CEO. "On behalf of ANSI, its Board of Directors, and its Consumer Interest Forum, I'd like to express our gratitude to the current funders for supporting this initiative. I encourage other stakeholders to join us in backing this fund so that we can continue to bolster consumer participation in our community going forward."
The initiative will begin with a 12-month pilot period. Funds raised during this pilot period will be available to consumers participating in or attending an activity related to the development of a new or revised American National Standard (ANS) sponsored by an ANSI-accredited standards developer. Applications for funding will be considered from both consumer advocacy or public interest organizations with an associated individual participating in a specific standards development activity, and individual consumer representatives with relevant experience participating in a specific standards development activity.
Consumers interested in learning more about how they can participate in the standards process, and get support from the fund if needed, can visit the ANSI consumer website.
ANSI is currently seeking funding from additional groups—including standards developing organizations, companies, consumer advocacy groups, and others—who wish to contribute to the Consumer Participation Fund in order to ensure its long-term sustainability. Interested stakeholders can contact Cleo Manuel Stamatos, ANSI's consumer legislative outreach manager, at 202-756-9204 or cstamatos@ansi.org, for more information.
About ANSI
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) is a private non-profit organization whose mission is to enhance both the global competitiveness of U.S. business and the U.S. quality of life by promoting and facilitating voluntary consensus standards and conformity assessment systems, and safeguarding their integrity. Its membership is comprised of businesses, professional societies and trade associations, standards developers, government agencies, and consumer and labor organizations.
The Institute represents and serves the diverse interests of more than 270,000 companies and organizations and 30 million professionals worldwide. ANSI is the official U.S. representative to the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and, via the U.S. National Committee, the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). For more information, visit www.ansi.org.
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SOURCE American National Standards Institute | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/ansi-launches-consumer-participation-fund-support-consumer-engagement-standards-development-activities/ | 2022-05-11T16:14:04Z |
SAN RAMON, Calif., May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Lumin Digital, a PSCU company, announced today that Pennsylvania-based APCI Federal Credit Union (APCI FCU) has signed a multi-year agreement with Lumin Digital for its cloud-native platform for online and mobile digital banking solutions. When APCI FCU goes live on the platform on May 17, Lumin Digital will support APCI FCU's 17,500 members and $680 million in assets.
APCI FCU was founded in 1954 and is currently headquartered in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Today, APCI FCU serves members in all 50 states with a mission of providing a wide array of financial products and services at competitive prices that meet the needs and expectations of their members.
Lumin Digital, a cloud-native digital banking platform, provides credit union members with a tightly integrated and customized experience that matches larger financial institutions' offerings. Focusing on service, user experience, safety, and security through sophisticated automation, Lumin Digital helps credit unions and financial institutions drive better engagement with their users through personalized recommendations and communication in the areas of spending insights, financial advice, fraud alerts, and savings goals.
"For more than 67 years, our main objective has been to provide superior financial products and services to our members on a professional and consistent basis," said Gina Fili, President and CEO at APCI Federal Credit Union. "This partnership with Lumin Digital will allow us to provide our members with a new and superior digital banking solution that will deliver the power of a full-service branch, right in their hands."
"Having a cloud-native digital banking platform like Lumin's is a critical component of APCI FCU's digital strategy, allowing them to make great strides towards serving their members wherever and wherever life takes them," said Jeff Chambers, founder and CEO of Lumin Digital. "We are excited to work with their incredible team. Our constantly evolving digital platform will provide APCI FCU with the tools and services they need to remove friction for users at all stages of their unique member journeys."
Lumin Digital continues to drive innovation in the digital banking space, differentiating itself through technology built for human connection. Lumin Digital's offering provides seamless integration to a wide array of PSCU and other platform tools and capabilities, including card services, rewards management, and data analytics to provide a member-centric experience.
About Lumin Digital
Lumin Digital is a fintech company specializing in digital banking solutions. Through a fundamentally different approach to technology, service, and people, we're creating the next generation of financial solutions each and every day. Lumin helps credit unions and financial institutions build and deploy next-gen digital experiences that help to continually serve, engage, and grow their membership base. While other platforms are partially adapted or retrofitted for the cloud, Lumin is 100% cloud-native. It was built specifically for the cloud environment, allowing us to more fully realize the advantages it offers. It's a difference that financial institutions and their users will see and feel almost immediately. For more information, visit lumindigital.com.
About APCI Federal Credit Union
APCI Federal Credit Union (APCI FCU) is a non-profit financial cooperative that has serviced our members since 1954. We have a staff of 50+, with over 500 years of combined credit union experience. APCI FCU is located in Allentown, PA and our staff currently serves more than 17,500 members with over $680 million in assets. Today we have members in all 50 states, and many of our members reside outside of our geographic location with concentrations in Texas, Louisiana, and California.
About PSCU
PSCU, the nation's premier payments CUSO, supports the success of more than 1,900 financial institutions representing nearly 7 billion transactions annually. Committed to service excellence and focused on innovation, PSCU's payment processing, risk management, data and analytics, loyalty programs, digital banking, marketing, strategic consulting and mobile platforms help deliver possibilities and seamless member experiences. Comprehensive, 24/7/365 member support is provided by contact centers located throughout the United States. The origin of PSCU's model is collaboration and scale, and the company has leveraged its influence on behalf of credit unions and their members for more than 40 years. Today, PSCU provides an end-to-end, competitive advantage that enables credit unions to securely grow and meet evolving consumer demands. For more information, visit pscu.com.
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SOURCE Lumin Digital | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/apci-federal-credit-union-signs-with-lumin-digital-enhanced-digital-banking-services/ | 2022-05-11T16:14:11Z |
Animal welfare organizations across New Mexico have requested assistance from the ASPCA to evacuate homeless animals and provide additional support in affected communities
SANTA FE, N.M., May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- At the urgent request of the Animal Welfare Coalition of Northeastern New Mexico (AWC), the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®), in collaboration with Helping Paws Across Borders (HPAB), mobilized to provide critical support for animals impacted by the recent wildfires spreading dangerously across New Mexico. The ASPCA is assisting AWC with ongoing sheltering needs at a temporary shelter in Santa Fe, including daily care and supply donations for homeless animals, as well as supporting Bernalillo County Animal Services by providing pet food and additional sheltering supplies.
In addition, the ASPCA is facilitating the transport of more than 20 homeless cats from Española Humane to animal welfare organizations in Colorado including Longmont Humane Society, Foothills Animal Shelter, and Larimer Humane Society. The unowned cats were all in New Mexico animal shelters prior to the wildfires and will be made available for adoption. The ASPCA continues to communicate with emergency management agencies and animal welfare organizations across New Mexico and stands ready to assist with additional field operations and transports upon request.
"The Animal Welfare Coalition of Northeastern New Mexico, Helping Paws Across Borders and many other local agencies have been working tirelessly to provide sheltering and care for animals displaced by these devastating wildfires, and the ASPCA disaster response team is proud to collaborate with these agencies to ensure the ongoing safety and wellbeing for animals in impacted communities," said Tim Rickey, Vice President, ASPCA National Field Response. "As historic winds cause these wildfires to continue spreading, we urge pet owners to create disaster preparedness plans and include pets in all potential evacuations."
This lifesaving work is made possible thanks to support from The Emergency Fund by Rachael Ray Nutrish® and the Alex and Elisabeth Lewyt Charitable Trust. In addition, FedEx assisted by providing complimentary transportation of pet food donated by Hill's Pet Nutrition to the emergency shelter operation in Santa Fe.
Last year, the ASPCA announced the results of a nationally representative survey indicating that 21 percent of U.S. pet owners said they faced wildfires in their communities. Pet owners in the Western region of the country, including New Mexico, were most impacted with nearly 60 percent reporting they lived in an area that experienced wildfires. May is National Wildfire Preparedness Month, and the ASPCA recognizes a vital need to support residents in areas impacted by wildfires and other disasters and encourages all pet owners to always include their pets in disaster preparedness plans, especially those involving a potential evacuation.
To learn how to incorporate pets into preparedness plans, visit aspca.org/disasterprep.
About the ASPCA®
Founded in 1866, the ASPCA® (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) was the first animal welfare organization in North America and continues to serve as the nation's leading voice for animals. More than two million supporters strong, the ASPCA is committed to its mission of providing effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation, the ASPCA is a national leader in the areas of anti-cruelty, community outreach and animal health services. For more information, please visit www.ASPCA.org, and be sure to follow the ASPCA on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Photos (Credit/ASPCA): https://aspca.widencollective.com/dam/externalorderpickup/0a1e743f-0370-4c07-aab8-3e7916165b6c
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SOURCE ASPCA | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/aspca-mobilizes-provide-critical-support-animals-impacted-by-devastating-wildfires/ | 2022-05-11T16:14:18Z |
STOCKHOLM, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Autoliv, Inc., (NYSE: ALV and SSE: ALIV.sdb), the worldwide leader in automotive safety systems, today announced the results of its annual general meeting of stockholders held on May 10, 2022.
Annual General Meeting of Stockholders
The Company's 2022 Annual General Meeting of Stockholders (AGM) voted for approval of the following proposals:
- The election of Mikael Bratt, Laurie Brlas, Jan Carlson, Hasse Johansson, Leif Johansson, Franz-Josef Kortüm, Frédéric Lissalde, Min Liu, Xiaozhi Liu, Martin Lundstedt, and Thaddeus "Ted" Senko as directors of the Board for a one-year term ending at the 2023 AGM;
- The non-binding, advisory resolution to approve the Company's 2021 executive compensation for its named executive officers; and
- The ratification of the appointment of Ernst & Young AB as the Company's independent auditing firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2022.
Committees of the Board
At the Board meeting, the Board approved the membership of its standing committees as follows:
- Audit and Risk Committee:
Ted Senko (Chair), Laurie Brlas, Hasse Johansson, and Min Liu - Leadership Development and Compensation Committee:
Frédéric Lissalde (Chair), Leif Johansson, Xiaozhi Liu, and Martin Lundstedt - Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee:
Leif Johansson (Chair), Laurie Brlas, Franz-Josef Kortüm, and Frédéric Lissalde
Chairman
The Board resolved that Jan Carlson is an independent director and continues to serve as the Chairman of the Board.
Inquiries:
Investors & Analysts: Anders Trapp, Tel +46 (0)8 587 206 71
Investors & Analysts: Henrik Kaar, Tel +46 (0)8 587 206 14
Media: Gabriella Ekelund, Tel +46 (70) 612 64 24
About Autoliv
Autoliv, Inc. (NYSE: ALV; Nasdaq Stockholm: ALIV.sdb) is the worldwide leader in automotive safety systems. Through our group companies, we develop, manufacture and market protective systems, such as airbags, seatbelts, and steering wheels for all major automotive manufacturers in the world as well as mobility safety solutions, such as pedestrian protection, connected safety services and safety solutions for riders of powered two wheelers. At Autoliv, we challenge and re-define the standards of mobility safety to sustainably deliver leading solutions. In 2021, our products saved close to 35,000 lives. Every year our products prevent more than 300,000 severe injuries.
Our more than 60,000 associates in 28 countries are passionate about our vision of Saving More Lives and quality is at the heart of everything we do. We drive innovation, research, and development at our 14 technical centers, with their 20 test tracks. Sales in 2021 amounted to US $ 8.2 billion. For more information go to www.autoliv.com.
This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com
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SOURCE Autoliv | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/autoliv-announces-results-2022-annual-stockholders-meeting/ | 2022-05-11T16:14:29Z |
OGDEN, Utah, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Becklar, the parent company of AvantGuard Monitoring Centers and Freeus is proud to announce that AvantGuard was awarded The Monitoring Association's (TMA) 2022 Monitoring Center of the Year. This industry achievement recognizes the dedication and effort of AvantGuard's team to build a company with a powerful culture, centered around innovation and service.
AvantGuard is Becklar's premier monitoring service provider, known for its years of industry experience, innovative technologies, and highly trained operators who expertly monitor safety solutions across North America. Becklar and its subsidiary companies provide comprehensive connected safety solutions including monitoring for life and property protection solutions, including fire & burglary detection, personal emergency response services, workforce safety, connected wellness, and personal safety applications.
AvantGuard experienced tremendous growth in 2021 with several notable achievements:
- They grew their service base by more than 40%, from 850,000 to 1.2 million subscribers.
- They expanded their dealer network, growing from 700 dealer partners to more than 1200.
- They expanded their service network, opening a third monitoring center in Cedar City, Utah.
- They launched their cutting-edge AI automated voice assistant ("AVA") platform to handle more than one million non-urgent alarm signals such as test calls and low battery alerts, to provide the fastest response times, while ensuring swift protection of lives and property.
- They expanded their My.AG dealer tools portal, rich with robust applications and support functions to help dealer partners efficiently grow their business, chart performance gains and highlight untapped expansion opportunities.
Upon contemplating AvantGuard's industry recognition and accolade for TMA's 2022 Monitoring Center of the Year Award, Steve Richards, Becklar's CEO, commented:
"We are honored to have AvantGuard recognized as The Central Station of the Year recipient. We are proud of the efforts of our incredible team and are pleased to receive TMA's recognition for our unparalleled customer service and innovative solutions that make the world a safer place."
This recognition is the result of continuous technology innovation with a focus on providing leading-edge care across multiple industries. Becklar is proud to offer authentic, end-to-end, award-winning connected safety solutions to our enterprise customers.
About Becklar:
Becklar creates industry-leading connected safety solutions for enterprise and individuals, delivering a world class comprehensive suite of lifesaving and life-enhancing technologies. Becklar leverages its platform of innovative technology and award-winning services to create customizable and comprehensive solutions to meet the connected safety needs of their enterprise customers across diverse industries, including personal emergency response solutions, workforce safety, connected wellness, vitals monitoring and event response monitoring.
Learn more about Becklar's complete suite of end-to-end solutions at www.becklar.com. Learn about Becklar's premier subsidiaries including AvantGuard Monitoring Centers at www.agmonitoring.com and Freeus at www.freeus.com.
Contact:
Jeff Bradford
Senior Director of Marketing
jbradford@becklar.com
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SOURCE Becklar | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/becklars-subsidiary-company-avantguard-monitoring-centers-is-named-monitoring-associations-tma-2022-monitoring-center-year/ | 2022-05-11T16:14:36Z |
OCEAN CITY, Md., May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Ocean City, Md.-based outdoor hospitality specialist Blue Water continues its rapid expansion with the appointment of operational lead at Halesford Harbour Resort & Marina, in partnership with National Land Lease Capital.
Halesford Harbour is ideally located on Smith Mountain Lake with close proximity to the town of Moneta, restaurants and family entertainment. Guests can enjoy fishing, boating, private beaches, boardwalk access, the popular Jake's Place Restaurant, and more on 500 miles of shoreline. The RV resort offers seasonal sites only, while The Inn offers a wide variety of lodging options for the public. The private beach is for guest use offering recreation on Smith Mountain Lake including inflatable slip 'n slides. Dinner cruise charters are also available, making it a great venue for weddings and gatherings.
The resort offers 133 seasonal RV sites and 123 seasonal marina slips. Guests can also stay at The Inn, which offers 26 rooms with water views, and an adjacent private cabin. The Inn's guests can enjoy a large outdoor patio with gas firepits, a gas BBQ overlooking the lake, and a dock with six boat slips for resort and inn guests.
"Halesford Harbour is an impeccable addition to Blue Water's portfolio," said Blue Water CEO Todd Burbage. "Guests can take part in some of our favorite waterfront activities including fishing, boating, and recreation on a private beach. This property has all the makings of yet another fantastic Blue Water destination. We look forward to working closely with the team at Halesford Harbour to apply our standard of exceptional guest experiences and continue to provide guests with a remarkable lakeside escape."
Blue Water is growing rapidly and continuously adding managed properties, owned assets, and developing new projects. Halesford Harbour marks Blue Water's 12th property in Virginia and 7th operational venture in partnership with NLLC.
"We are excited to partner again with the team at Blue Water to further the level of service and curate the best experiences for our guests at Halesford Harbour," said Yogi Singh, partner at NLLC.
Photos of the property can be viewed here. For more information on Halesford Harbour, please visit https://www.halesfordharbour.com/.
About Blue Water:
Founded in 2002, Blue Water specializes in investing, developing, and managing RV resorts, campgrounds, hotels, and attractions. Blue Water's integrated approach to marketing, revenue management, and operations has quickly established itself as a hospitality industry leader. With dozens of resort-area properties in East Coast states from Maine to Florida, and new additions out west in Texas, Montana, and Oregon, the Blue Water family is committed to creating elite assets, delivering exceptional guest experiences, and enhancing the communities we serve. To learn more, visit BWDC.com.
About National Land Lease Capital:
NLLC is a real estate development company specializing in the acquisition, development, management, and repositioning of real estate assets in the outdoor hospitality sector. The firm utilizes a broad base of capital partnerships and prides itself on creating value and direct access to the sector in fund management, strategic joint ventures, and other unique platforms for institutions, investment managers, family offices, and ultra-high net worth individuals and organizations. To learn more, visit nl-lc.com.
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SOURCE Blue Water Development | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/blue-water-takes-operations-halesford-harbour-resort-amp-marina-ongoing-partnership-with-national-land-lease-capital/ | 2022-05-11T16:14:42Z |
PHOENIX, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Bluum, known as North America's leading education technology solutions provider, today announced that CFO Dan Gerelick was named a 2022 Phoenix Titan 100. The Titan 100 program, which uses criteria such as demonstrating exceptional leadership, vision and passion, recognizes Phoenix's Top 100 CEOs and C-level executives known for being the most accomplished business leaders in their respective industries.
"Dan has been extremely instrumental in helping Bluum expand its business the past few years," Bluum CEO Erez Pikar said. "His experience with mergers, acquisitions and identifying best business practices helped Bluum balance risk with expansion opportunities during the pandemic, spurring even more growth during uncertain times. Dan is very deserving of this award."
Gerelick helped Bluum increase from a $216 million company in 2019 to a $614 million company by the conclusion of 2021. Bluum, which is an amalgamation of three technology companies, was recently named one of the esteemed "Top 10 Integrators" in the country by Systems Contractor News. Gerelick played a significant role in helping Bluum capture that honor.
"The Titan 100 are shaping the future of the Phoenix business community by building a distinguished reputation that is unrivaled and preeminent in their field," President of Titan CEO Jaime Zawmon said. "We know that they will have a profound impact that makes an extraordinary difference for their customers and clients across the nation."
Titan CEO and headline sponsors Class VI Partners and Wipfli LLP, the creator of the awards, have selected honorees this year whose collective companies employ upwards of 90,000 individuals and generate more than $32 billion in annual revenues. This year's honorees will be published in a limited-edition Titan 100 book, profiled exclusively online, honored at an awards ceremony on September 29 and multiple network opportunities throughout the year with fellow Titans.
About Bluum
Bluum empowers educators with technology solutions that improve learning and make it more accessible, assisting more than 26 million students grow and flourish. Cultivate possibility with us at bluum.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook.
Media Contact
Stefan Swiat
Director of Communications
O: 602-809-7028
stefan.swiat@bluum.com
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SOURCE Bluum | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/bluum-cfo-gerelick-honored-2022-phoenix-titan-100/ | 2022-05-11T16:14:51Z |
- Together, The Body Shop and the United Nations Secretary-General's Envoy on Youth are launching the global campaign 'Be Seen. Be Heard' to change the state of young people's representation in public life in over 75 countries.
- New global report released 76% of young people in the US think current political systems need drastic reforms to be fit for the future and 78% think politicians and business leaders from previous generations have 'messed things up' for people and the planet.
- In conjunction with this global advocacy effort, The Body Shop introduced a "Youth Collective," a group of under 30s from within the company and externally from other B Corp businesses, who will work alongside the executive leadership team to shape the future of the company.
NEW YORK, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Millions of young people are missing from public life. Without their involvement, the pressing issues that most significantly affect them—from the climate crisis to healthcare access, mental health, and racial justice—will not take center stage in political decision-making.
In the US, the average senator is almost 64 years old, and the average House member is about 581. This extends beyond national politics, too: More than half of US governors are over the age of 602 and less than 6% of state legislators are under age 353. While age is only one measure of diversity, Millennials and Gen Z are notably more ethnically and racially diverse than the generations that came before them4.
The lack of young people's representation in global and national politics is counterproductive to solving the pressing issues that will affect their futures. That is why activist beauty retailer The Body Shop is launching Be Seen Be Heard, a global campaign in partnership with the Office of the United Nations Secretary-General's Envoy on Youth, aimed at improving the participation of young people in public life through long-term, structural changes. In the US, The Body Shop will partner with Generation Citizen, a non-partisan organization and leading advocate for youth civic engagement, to equip and inspire young people to engage in the democratic process in this year's elections and beyond.
In conjunction with the campaign announcement, The Body Shop and the United Nations Secretary-General's Envoy on Youth are jointly releasing the report 'Be Seen Be Heard: Understanding young people's political participation,' which provides critical insights into preconceptions and structural barriers preventing young people from participating in public life, along with recommendations to address these challenges5. The report draws on perspectives from more than 27,000 people across 26 countries, with more than half of respondents under age 30.
According to the report, 76% of young Americans surveyed agree that our political systems need drastic reform to be fit for the future. Further, 81% of young people in the US described politicians as 'self-interested' and 83% think politicians are corrupt. 78% of people under 30 in the US believe politicians and business leaders from previous generations have 'messed things up' for people and the planet.
"Our position is clear. The world's problems cannot be solved by the same people making the same choices," said David Boynton, CEO of The Body Shop. "Our research indicates the majority of young people are positive about the future, and we need to hear their views and ideas inside the halls of power. We will use our global reach to galvanize awareness and support, as we have in the past. Since Anita Roddick founded The Body Shop in 1976, we have campaigned on issues of social and environmental justice, because we believe that global businesses have a responsibility towards the communities in which they operate. Throughout our campaigning history The Body Shop has created direct change through new legislative action or policy changes in over 24 countries since 1990. Be Seen Be Heard is rooted in creating a fairer world with and for young people, and together with the Office of the United Nations Secretary-General's Envoy on Youth – we are on a mission to do exactly that."
The survey results also demonstrate that despite young people's overall negative views toward current government institutions, they are not apathetic. A third of people under 30 in the US are interested in running for office, including almost half (46%) of people aged 15-17. Younger people in the US are also more likely to have engaged in the political and civically oriented activities outlined in the survey, including engaging in a difficult debate with family members and sharing on social media about a social justice or environmental issue, with only 17% of those under 30 doing none of the listed activities compared to 26% of those aged 30 or older.
Earlier this morning, The Body Shop and the United Nations Secretary-General's Envoy on Youth unveiled the global survey results at a press conference at the UN Headquarters in New York City. Panelists included Jayathma Wickramanayake, the UN Secretary-General's Envoy on Youth; David Boynton, global CEO of The Body Shop; Gina Martin, youth political activist and author; and Samson Itodo, Executive Director of Yiaga Africa, which is the organization behind Not Too Young to Run.
"The intergenerational gap in power, influence and trust constitutes one of the biggest challenges of our time," Jayathma Wickramanayake, the United Nations Secretary-General's Envoy on Youth, said. "As young people have made abundantly clear through their activism on the streets, in civil society and on social media, they care deeply about the transformational change needed to create more equal, just and sustainable societies. Participation is a right, and a lack of youth representation where decisions are made contributes to a growing mistrust towards political institutions and a sense of alienation from elected leaders, caused by policies that do not reflect the priorities of youth, mirror their concerns or speak their language. This campaign is an opportunity to change that."
The Body Shop and the United Nations Secretary-General's Envoy on Youth push for transformational change
The report supports the fact that there is a chronic lack of faith in political systems but a clear appetite for more youth representation from all age groups. Learnings such as these will inform grassroots campaign actions around the world. These actions, outlined in the report, include a wide range of structural changes in political systems. Among other actions, young people's participation in public decision-making could be improved long-term by:
- lowering voting ages
- increasing formal youth representation through youth councils, parliaments, or committees
- removing barriers for young people to participate in public decision-making
- simplifying registration for first-time voters
- improving young people's leadership skills
Campaigning in 2,600 stores, in over 75 countries, across six continents
The collaboration between The Body Shop and the Office of the United Nations Secretary-General's Envoy on Youth will mean that young people and other stakeholders will be able to engage with the campaign through many routes. Local campaign activations will include partnerships with specific youth-led or youth-focused non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and/or opportunities to support through petitions and other activations.
The campaign is launching globally in May 2022 and will run until mid-2025. Check out the campaign website for further information.
Click here to read the full report: https://www.thebodyshop.com/en-us/about-us/activism/be-seen-be-heard/a/a00072
Bringing young people into the C-Suite
The Body Shop is also announcing a Youth Collective to provide insights to its Executive Leadership Team on the views and ideas of young people and shape the future of the company, including its long-term strategy and activist campaigns. The collective includes 12 people from inside and outside of the business, all of whom are under the age of 30.
About The Body Shop
As a B Corp business, The Body Shop is committed to ambitious social and environmental targets. Earlier this year, it established a Youth Collective to help amplify youth voices within its own business. The Body Shop Youth Collective is formed of 10-12 people from inside and outside the business, all aged under 30. They will advise The Body Shop Executive Leadership Team with the views and voices of young people.
The Body Shop invests heavily in activism and has a dedicated activism team, focused on research and tactics, operating around the world. Long before activism was an industry buzzword, The Body Shop has pushed for change where other brands saw risks. It has mobilized its global collective and campaigned for over 20 years on issues such as the rights of indigenous peoples, animal rights, sex trafficking and the burning of the Amazon rainforest.
For more information follow @thebodyshopnorthamerica on Instagram or visit, thebodyshop.com.
About the Office of the United Nations Secretary-General's Envoy on Youth
In 2017, the UN Secretary-General appointed Jayathma Wickramanayake of Sri Lanka as his Special Envoy on Youth and as the youngest senior official in the history of the organization.
The Envoy on Youth's mandate is to harmonize the UN system efforts on youth development, enhance the UN response to youth needs, advocate for the development needs and rights of young people, as well as to bring the work of the United Nations on youth closer to them. For more information, follow @UNYouthEnvoy on social media and visit our website at www.un.org/youthenvoy.
The Envoy on Youth also acts as the advisor to and the representative of the Secretary-General on youth related matters. For more information, follow @UNYouthEnvoy on social media and visit our website at www.un.org/youthenvoy.
About Generation Citizen
Generation Citizen (GC) works to ensure that every student in the United States receives an effective action civics education, which provides them with the knowledge and skills necessary to participate in our democracy as active citizens. For more information follow @generationcitizen on Instagram or visit, generationcitizen.org.
1. https://www.legistorm.com/congress_by_numbers.html
2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_current_United_States_governors_by_age
3. https://www.ncsl.org/research/about-state-legislatures/who-we-elect.aspx
4. https://www.statista.com/statistics/797321/us-population-by-generation/
5. The Be Seen Be Heard Global Youth Survey was conducted in December 2021 by Dynata.
This large-scale qualitative and quantitative research surveyed 27,043 people across multiple age ranges, including 14,160 between the ages of 15 and 30, across 26 countries. To ensure high confidence levels and representativeness of findings, participant samples included quotas on age, gender, region and income. The survey additionally ensured a good spread of global geography, with 59% of the world population covered in the sample.
Media Contact:
Brooke Buonauro
Brooke.buonauro@finnpartners.com
973-219-0108
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SOURCE The Body Shop | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/body-shop-united-nations-secretary-generals-envoy-youth-launch-global-collaboration-increase-youth-engagement-public-life/ | 2022-05-11T16:14:58Z |
SAN DIEGO, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Boochcraft, the plant-based, organic hard kombucha company, has officially become a Certified Benefit Corporation, a label awarded exclusively to companies that voluntarily meet the highest standards for social and environmental performance. Notably, Boochcraft is the first hard-kombucha brand to achieve B-Corp status and will join more than 4,000 Certified B Corporations spanning more than 70 countries and 150 industries in a global effort to build a more inclusive and sustainable economy.
Creating a business that drives impact has been one of Boochcraft's core values since its inception in 2016. "We have been at it for six years now selling hard kombucha and over eight years since we first had the idea to start Boochcraft," says Adam Hiner, Boochcraft co-founder. He continues, "Many things have changed since those early days, but one thing remains true: our commitment to doing better for the planet, giving back to the community and doing business in a sustainable way."
B-Corp Certification is the ultimate goal for businesses looking to balance profit with purpose through action, which made it the clear next step for Boochcraft. Key milestones that led to Boochcraft's B-Corp Certification include:
- 100% of Boochcraft's fruit scraps are composted producing over 1 million pounds of compost annually, and any unused fruit is donated to feed the food insecure.
- Utilizing a water-recapture loop, Boochcraft saves 1,116 gallons of fresh water per day.
- All scope 1 and scope 2 emissions are tracked and offset by Boochcraft, which has officially made the Boochcraft manufacturing plant a net-zero-emissions facility.
- Boochcraft has implemented an environmental-management system with the goal to continue to reduce waste streams.
- Boochcraft has established positive, healthy and financially supportive workplace practices by committing to pay all employees 25% above the set minimum wage, launching its 401(k) with matching plans, adding eight more days of paid sick/holiday days and launching its employee-engagement survey, tying executive goals to improvement of the overall score.
According to B Lab, the nonprofit behind B Corporations, "The growing movement hopes to work toward a world where business is a force for good and plays a leading role in positively impacting and transforming the global economy into a more inclusive, equitable and regenerative system."
Boochcraft looks to further establish a culture that values this balance of people, planet and profit with the goal of creating a ripple effect that will ignite even more positive change. Becoming a B-Corp is a commitment to practice what it preaches and hold itself accountable as a business every day.
Hiner states that Boochcraft hopes to "continue improving our efforts in creating more harmony between people, planet and profit. We see impact as an ever-evolving effort. Each time we turn over a stone to find something we can improve, it leads us to another stone. 'Do Better' is a Boochcraft value that holds us accountable to continue making better and better hard kombucha. It is also a value that keeps us looking to continue to refine our impact efforts each year."
For more information about Boochcraft, visit boochcraft.com.
ABOUT BOOCHCRAFT
Boochcraft, founded in 2016 by three friends in San Diego, California, ignited a brand-new industry of better-for-you beverages in the alcohol space: hard kombucha. With an uncompromised focus on quality, Boochcraft is juicing whole, organic fruits in-house at their Boochery in Chula Vista, California, to craft a naturally gluten-free, unpasteurized, vegan alcoholic drink that provides a happier buzz. Boochcraft has committed to brewing responsibly through sustainable manufacturing practices and a long-standing partnership with 1% for the Planet. With a mix of year-round flavors and seasonal releases, Boochcraft currently delivers the highest-quality, lowest-impact hard kombucha across 13 states nationwide.
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SOURCE Boochcraft | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/boochcraft-becomes-first-hard-kombucha-brand-world-achieve-coveted-b-corp-certification/ | 2022-05-11T16:15:05Z |
- Guidelines for battery-pack coolant-system tests set by INFICON
- More stringent leak-detection standards for battery coolant systems needed
DETROIT, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Rapid detection of coolant-system leaks is now available for lithium-ion battery packs typically used in electric and hybrid-electric vehicles, according to researchers at INFICON, a leading supplier of automotive leak-detection systems.
Research conducted by INFICON shows that tracer-gas tests can help protect battery packs from potentially harmful coolant leaks. Company scientists have shown that standard industry tests need to be improved to help prevent fluid from entering battery-pack coolant circuits under typical operating pressures.
Temperatures in coolant circuits using water-glycol mixtures also increase during operation, which decreases viscosity and increases potential leak rates. In addition, the composition of battery packs, typically plastic, steel or aluminum, can affect leak rates through undiscovered leak channels.
Although current industry standards are useful for leak testing components under atmospheric conditions, industry guidelines have not been established for measuring leak rates for glycol- and refrigerant-based systems used in electric, hybrid electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, according to Dr. Daniel Wetzig, head of leak-detection research at INFICON.
"More stringent leak-detection tests for electric-vehicle battery packs will further ensure quality, safety and performance during a battery pack's life," Dr. Wetzig says. "Even minute holes can cause coolant leaks which in severe cases can short-circuit the electrical system or cause a fire."
INFICON's research findings are detailed in a 2022 SAE International paper entitled "Proposed Standards and Methods for Leak Testing Lithium-Ion Battery Packs Using Glycol-based Coolant with Empirically Derived Rejection Limits." Dr. Wetzig co-authored the paper with Marc Blaufuss, an INFICON application engineer for leak-detection tools.
Lab tests conducted last year at INFICON's facilities in Cologne, Germany, established that to safely protect against cooling-system leaks, specified leak rates need to be much lower than currently required. INFICON's testing also determined that lower rates could be detected by tracer-gas testing with a high degree of confidence.
INFICON scientists used glass capillaries to simulate leak channels of various diameters. They also tested with various channel lengths and inlet-outlet pressures to confirm leak rates for capillaries with a diameter of 5-30 microns -- barely larger than the diameter of a strand of spider web.
The INFICON tests used a variety of pressures to simulate typical battery-pack operation. Leak rates for coolant penetration through well-defined openings were correlated to helium leak rates by measuring gas flow through the same openings with a helium leak detector.
The company's research confirms that gas-based test methods can be used to accurately detect potential leak channels in battery packs using a variety of housing materials, whether the cooling fluid is water or a water-glycol mixture and under a variety of temperatures and pressures. Similar tests also are effective for leak testing cooling channels in fuel-cell stacks.
INFICON offers a variety of gas-based leak-detection systems, including industry-first mass-spectrometer technology that enables testing of all types of lithium-ion battery cells and battery packs whether "dry" or filled with electrolytes. Gas-based systems provide quantifiable and repeatable results with extremely high sensitivity rates.
Laboratory tests demonstrate the accuracy and effectiveness of INFICON's gas-based leak-detection systems, according to Thomas Parker, the company's North American automotive sales manager. He notes that INFICON customers already are conducting validation tests for gas-based leak-detection systems on production lines.
"Our research and customer studies provide hard data and scientific proof that gas-based leak detection is needed to ensure safety, lower warranty costs and maintain high levels of customer satisfaction," Parker adds. "Using INFICON equipment with such high sensitivity rates will ensure batteries and their assembled packs operate as intended, help increase consumer confidence in EVs and drive growth in coming years."
A print or digital copy of INFICON's SAE Paper (2022-01-0716) is available from SAE for $33. There is an 18 percent discount for SAE members.
ABOUT INFICON
INFICON is one of the world's leading developers, producers and suppliers of instruments and devices for leak detection in air conditioning, refrigeration and automotive manufacturing. The company has manufacturing facilities in Europe, China and the United States, as well as sales and service offices throughout the world. More information about INFICON automotive technology is available online at www.inficonautomotive.com.
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SOURCE INFICON | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/break-through-leak-test-standards-possible-ev-battery-packs/ | 2022-05-11T16:15:11Z |
BRG recognized for meeting elite partnership-level requirements
WASHINGTON, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Global consulting firm Berkeley Research Group (BRG) today announced that it has become a RelativityOne Silver Partner for providing exceptional service experience to its RelativityOne end users.
By becoming a RelativityOne Silver Partner, BRG can further leverage its eDiscovery expertise to provide more value and better results for its clients. Additionally, the move gives BRG the added scalability needed in today's data-centric society and allows the firm to continue to build expertise and intellectual property on top of one connected global solution.
"We are proud of this recognition, which reflects our ongoing commitment to RelativityOne and to continuing to enhance the level of service excellence for our clients," said BRG Managing Director Richard Finkelman. "Our RelativityOne partnership means that we will have the latest, most up-to-date software from a service, functionality and security standpoint, running on a vast global infrastructure with few, if any, peers when it comes to capacity, performance, resiliency and security."
The RelativityOne Silver level is part of the Relativity Partner program and recognizes organizations that have reached a high bar for experience, customer satisfaction, and staff training and certifications. These partners are proven innovators, with at least one custom application available in the Relativity App Hub. Their ability to make clients successful with RelativityOne is demonstrated and impressive.
"BRG is a longstanding Relativity partner since 2017 that has been committed to providing their clients with the very best eDiscovery offerings. The BRG Analytics Dashboard has proven to be valuable for their users, and we can't wait to see what they develop next," said James Zinn, Director of Commercial Partnerships at Relativity. "We congratulate BRG on their milestone and look forward to the important work they will continue to do to benefit the industry."
BRG is participating in Relativity Fest London, a free, in-person event taking place on May 17. View the agenda here.
About BRG
Berkeley Research Group, LLC is a global consulting firm that helps leading organizations advance in three key areas: disputes and investigations, corporate finance, and performance improvement and advisory. Headquartered in California with offices around the world, we are an integrated group of experts, industry leaders, academics, data scientists and professionals working across borders and disciplines. We harness our collective expertise to deliver the inspired insights and practical strategies our clients need to stay ahead of what's next.
About Relativity
Relativity makes software to help users organize data, discover the truth and act on it. Its SaaS product RelativityOne manages large volumes of data and quickly identifies key issues during litigation and internal investigations. The AI-powered communication surveillance product, Relativity Trace proactively detects regulatory misconduct like insider trading, collusion and other non-compliant behavior. Relativity has more than 300,000 users in approximately 40 countries serving thousands of organizations globally primarily in legal, financial services and government sectors, including the U.S. Department of Justice and 198 of the Am Law 200. Relativity has been named one of Chicago's Top Workplaces by the Chicago Tribune for 10 consecutive years. Please contact Relativity at sales@relativity.com or visit http://www.relativity.com for more information.
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SOURCE Berkeley Research Group, LLC | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/brg-announces-it-will-be-relativityone-silver-partner-relativity-fest-london/ | 2022-05-11T16:15:19Z |
Bright Pattern unveils natively-built Remote Assist, which improves remote workforce efficiency, lower issue resolution time, and improves ROI, at Europe's largest IT Service Management Tradeshow, SITS London.
SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Bright Pattern, a leading provider of cloud-based omnichannel communication software for innovative companies, announces the release of its native Remote Assist technology. Bright Pattern's new Remote Assist capability will be unveiled at Europe's largest IT service management show, SITS London 2022 at Booth 275 on May 11th. The Remote Assist application allows users to take control of another user's desktop (agent or customer requiring help), allowing for easier training, faster problem resolution, and increased customer issue resolution speed. By doing this, agents and supervisors can work more quickly to resolve issues and improve performance within the contact center or help desk.
Bright Pattern's Remote Assist technology is the latest development as part of Bright Pattern's continued commitment to improving contact center and help desk performance as well as increasing the capabilities of the remote workforce. Along with other Bright Pattern technology such as Microsoft Teams integrations and best-of-breed AI integrations, Bright Pattern's Remote Assist technology will improve remote workforce productivity by allowing supervisors to more easily train new agents, and allow contact centers to hire staff from anywhere around the world. Furthermore, if a remote agent has an issue, supervisors can take control of their device to resolve the issue and train the agent. This is done through eliminating the need for agents and supervisors to describe to the user what the instructions are and what they need to do on their screen, and instead allows agents and supervisors to perform the tasks directly without the extra hassle. Furthermore, Remote Assist will allow agents to deliver faster, more personalized customer service by allowing agents to quickly guide customers and resolve their issues.
Because Bright Pattern Remote Assist is natively-built, call centers and help desks can improve the performance of their contact centers and improve metrics such as average handle time, first contact resolution, and ROI without the need for a third-party integration or third-party software.
"Bright Pattern continues to develop new features as part of our commitment to improving contact center and help desk efficiency. With the rise of the remote global workforce and an emphasis on speed and personalization in customer service delivery, bringing the workforce together and improving workforce productivity is more important than ever," noted Michael McCloskey, CEO of Bright Pattern. "Our Remote Assist technology allows users to take control of another user's desktop, improving customer service and support delivery, and making the experience effortless for both the agents and end users."
About Bright Pattern
Bright Pattern provides the simplest and most powerful AI-powered omnichannel contact center software for innovative midsize and enterprise companies. To make customer service brighter, easier, and faster than ever before, Bright Pattern offers the only true omnichannel cloud platform with embedded AI that can be deployed quickly and nimbly by business users—without costly professional services. Bright Pattern allows companies to offer an effortless and personal customer experience across channels like voice, text, chat, email, video, messengers, and bots. Bright Pattern also allows companies to measure and act on every interaction on every channel with embedded AI omnichannel quality management. The company was founded by a team of industry veterans who pioneered the leading contact center solutions and are now delivering an architecture for the future with an advanced cloud-first approach. Bright Pattern's cloud contact center solution is used globally in over 26 countries and 12 languages.
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SOURCE Bright Pattern | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/bright-pattern-announces-remote-assist-simplify-issue-resolution-easily-manage-remote-workforce/ | 2022-05-11T16:15:25Z |
HEILBRONN, Germany , May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Admitad, the leading service provider of performance marketing services, appoints Bruno Acar as Chief International Officer. In his new position Mr. Acar will drive the international expansion of the fast growing IT-company, which exceeded $11 billion in total sales in 2021.
Bruno Acar has over 20 years of leadership experience in the digital industry, including his roles as Managing Director for the proptech platform HomeBeat.Live and Founder of Deploy.Berlin, a consulting network of top local professionals assisting foreign companies deploy their operations in the German capital Berlin.
In various international roles, he demonstrated his ability to operate in and adapt rapidly to fast changing markets, focusing on business development, digital strategies and branding. Bruno advised large media companies, content and mobile service providers on tech solutions and marketing insights.
Alexander Bachmann, CEO and founder of Admitad, says: "We are thrilled to attract a senior professional with such broad experience at this exciting moment in our history. As we continue to grow internationally, Bruno's entrepreneurial spirit, his experience in various global markets and ability to operate in multiple cultures is a welcome asset."
Bruno Acar is excited about his next move: "Admitad has demonstrated it is well positioned to tackle the challenges ahead in the performance marketing industry. Next to strong, continuous above market growth, the investments in innovation and diversification are starting to pay off. Its efficient structure, open company culture and operational strategy convinced me: Admitad is set to become a true global player."
Bruno Acar will be based in Berlin and reports to CEO Alexander Bachmann based in HQ in Heilbronn. In his role as Chief International Officer, he will work closely with other Admitad offices in Germany, UAE, Brasil, India, Poland, USA and other countries.
ABOUT
Admitad is a global provider of innovative performance marketing solutions, headquartered in Heilbronn, Germany. Admitad supports and develops services for media buying and monetization, partner and financial services. The portfolio includes Affiliate Network, Affiliate & Referral Tracking Software (Tapfiliate), Monetize Network, Admitad ConvertSocial and WhiteLabel Network, among others.
The company puts transparency and fairness on top of its priorities, working in 20+ markets with more than 50K advertisers and 800K publishers including Focus, Burda Media, Lenovo, Adobe, Radisson, Nike, adidas and many more. Admitad has offices in 9 countries, including Germany, the USA, Netherlands, Brazil, India and the United Arab Emirates.
Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1741632/Admitad_Logo.jpg
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SOURCE Admitad | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/bruno-acar-joins-admitad-chief-international-officer/ | 2022-05-11T16:15:31Z |
LOS ANGELES, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Law Offices of Frank R. Cruz announces that investors with substantial losses have opportunity to lead the securities fraud class action lawsuit against Cano Health, Inc. ("Cano" or the "Company") f/k/a Jaws Acquisition Corp. ("Jaws") (NYSE: CANO).
Class Period: May 18, 2020 – February 25, 2022
Lead Plaintiff Deadline: May 17, 2022
If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate.
The complaint filed alleges that, throughout the Class Period, Defendants failed to disclose to investors that: (1) Cano overstated its due diligence efforts and expertise with respect to acquiring target businesses; (2) accordingly, Cano performed inadequate due diligence into whether the Company, post-Business Combination, could properly account for the timing of revenue recognition as prescribed by ASC 606, particularly with respect to Medicare risk adjustments; (3) as a result, the Company misstated its capitated revenue, direct patient expense, accounts receivable, net of unpaid service provider costs, and accounts payable and accrued expenses; (4) accordingly, the Company was at an increased risk of failing to timely file one or more of its periodic financial reports; and (5) as a result of the foregoing, Defendants' public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.
Follow us for updates on Twitter: twitter.com/FRC_LAW.
To be a member of the class action you need not take any action at this time; you may retain counsel of your choice or take no action and remain an absent member of the class action. If you wish to learn more about this class action, or if you have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to the pending class action lawsuit, please contact Frank R. Cruz, of The Law Offices of Frank R. Cruz, 1999 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1100, Los Angeles, California 90067 at 310-914-5007, by email to info@frankcruzlaw.com, or visit our website at www.frankcruzlaw.com. If you inquire by email please include your mailing address, telephone number, and number of shares purchased.
This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules.
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SOURCE The Law Offices of Frank R. Cruz, Los Angeles | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/cano-investors-have-opportunity-lead-cano-health-inc-fka-jaws-acquisition-corp-securities-fraud-lawsuit/ | 2022-05-11T16:15:38Z |
IRVINE, Calif., May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Caylent, an Amazon Web Services (AWS) Advanced Tier Services Partner, announced today that it has achieved AWS SaaS Competency status. This designation recognizes that Caylent has demonstrated deep experience helping organizations design and build SaaS and cloud-native solutions on AWS.
Achieving the AWS SaaS Competency differentiates Caylent as an AWS Partner that possesses deep domain expertise in one or more of the following core SaaS categories – Design Services, and Builders. Partners in the Design Services category have expertise in designing and implementing complex cloud-native SaaS solutions with AWS infrastructure. Partners in the Builders category have deep expertise in building cloud-native SaaS applications via software development. To receive the designation, AWS Partners must possess deep AWS expertise in both designing and building SaaS solutions seamlessly on AWS.
"SaaS workloads are an important part of our overall strategy and we're thrilled to be recognized by AWS for the successful SaaS development model we've built at Caylent." says Randall Hunt, VP of Cloud Strategy and Solutions at Caylent. "Our experience partnering with dozens of startups to build their SaaS products from inception to launch uniquely positions us to accelerate the next generation of B2B SaaS workloads on AWS."
AWS is enabling scalable, flexible, and cost-effective solutions from startups to global enterprises. To support the seamless integration and deployment of these solutions, AWS established the AWS Competency Program to help customers identify AWS Partners with deep industry experience and expertise.
Caylent's Modern SaaS practice helps customers at any stage, from startup to enterprise, by identifying the right tenancy models and building the feature matrices at each stage of development. A key differentiator is their focus on meeting customers where they are in their cloud journey and working with them to build differentiated product offerings by harnessing all the cloud native benefits AWS has to offer. Caylent is enabling next generation SaaS application development through a wealth of services including:
- Migrate: Migrate on-premises deployments to AWS and modernize infrastructure with auto-scaling, auto-healing, and auto-provisioning capabilities.
- Tenancy Optimization: Take existing single-tenant applications and securely deliver a cost optimized multi-tenant solution leveraging Caylent's expertise with unit economics
- Application Modernization: Refactor and modernize applications using cloud native technologies like Amazon EKS and AWS Lambda by decoupling monolithic applications into functions and microservices.
- Tenant Provisioning and Automation: Turn high touch manual processes into self-service automated tenant provisioning for B2B and B2C end customers.
"Caylent has been an invaluable partner in our growth. We've found them to bring the perfect blend of expertise and execution, while integrating into the rest of our team improving knowledge, documentation, and general morale. In an industry often lacking in quality, they are a pleasure to work with and I'd highly recommend them for anyone looking to cost effectively level-up their cloud, data, or security operations." - Tom Jaklitsch, CTO & Co-Founder of Order.
In addition to the SaaS Services Competency, Caylent holds the Migration Services Competency, DevOps Services Competency and is a Well-Architected Partner, Immersion Day Partner, and Built on Control Tower Partner.
About Caylent:
Caylent is a cloud native services company that helps organizations bring the best out of their people and technology. We are living in a software-defined world where technology is at the core of every business. To thrive in this paradigm, organizations need to empower their people and processes through technology. Caylent is uniquely positioned to fuel that engine of innovation by bringing ambitious ideas to life for our customers. We work with customers to build, scale and optimize sophisticated cloud solutions using deep subject matter expertise to deliver world class outcomes through an agile co-delivery model. More information at www.caylent.com.
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SOURCE Caylent | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/caylent-achieves-aws-saas-competency-status/ | 2022-05-11T16:15:45Z |
BENSALEM, Pa., May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Law Offices of Howard G. Smith announces that investors with substantial losses have opportunity to lead the securities fraud class action lawsuit against Celsius Holdings, Inc. ("Celsius" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: CELH).
Class Period: August 12, 2021 – March 1, 2022
Lead Plaintiff Deadline: May 16, 2022
Investors suffering losses on their Celsius investments are encouraged to contact the Law Offices of Howard G. Smith to discuss their legal rights in this class action at 888-638-4847 or by email to howardsmith@howardsmithlaw.com.
The complaint filed alleges that, throughout the Class Period, Defendants failed to disclose to investors: (1) that the Company had improperly recorded expenses for non-cash share-based compensation for second and third quarters of 2021; (2) that, as a result, the Company's financial statements for those periods would be restated, including to report a net loss for the third quarter of 2021; (3) that there was a material weakness in Celsius's internal controls over financial reporting; and (4) that, as a result of the foregoing, Defendants' positive statements about the Company's business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis.
To be a member of the class action you need not take any action at this time; you may retain counsel of your choice or take no action and remain an absent member of the class action. If you wish to learn more about this class action, or if you have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to the pending class action lawsuit, please contact Howard G. Smith, Esquire, of Law Offices of Howard G. Smith, 3070 Bristol Pike, Suite 112, Bensalem, Pennsylvania 19020, by telephone at (215) 638-4847, toll-free at (888) 638-4847, or by email to howardsmith@howardsmithlaw.com, or visit our website at www.howardsmithlaw.com.
This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules.
Contacts
Law Offices of Howard G. Smith
Howard G. Smith, Esquire
215-638-4847
888-638-4847
howardsmith@howardsmithlaw.com
www.howardsmithlaw.com
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SOURCE Law Offices of Howard G. Smith | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/celh-investors-have-opportunity-lead-celsius-holdings-inc-securities-fraud-lawsuit/ | 2022-05-11T16:15:51Z |
KENSINGTON, Md., May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today marked the public launch of a special virtual tour of the historic Washington D.C. Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The tour, now available online, takes visitors on a guided journey of the interior of the temple led by Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles, and his wife, Lesa, along with Elder Dale G. Renlund, also of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles, and his wife, Ruth
"The Temple is a place of beauty that has a message of hope for all people," said Kent Colton, Co-Chair of the Temple Open House Committee. "While we have the chance to open the doors of the Temple during the Open House, we wanted those who may live far away - or who might not be able to join us in person - to share in this special experience. The building is beautiful, but what it represents for each of us is what makes it truly sacred."
The 12-minute virtual tour marks the first time the Church has made a video of this kind available to the public since the Rome, Italy Temple opened its doors in 2019.
The tour comes as the Washington D.C. Temple Open House announces an important milestone: 100,000 visitors have come through the Temple's doors since opened to the public on April 18. The Temple has seen a diversity of visitors, including national media outlets, invited guests from the government and embassies in Washington, D.C., friends and neighbors and local members of the Church. Visitors have toured the interior of the building, a truly sacred space to Church members throughout the world. They have also had access to the beautiful gardens surrounding the Temple.
Hundreds of volunteers from around the region are working to ensure the open house welcomes as many people as possible. Special liaisons with local authorities, including transit officials, aim to keep traffic flow smooth while encouraging people to carpool and take public transit whenever possible. Self-guided tours of the Temple are facilitated by members of the Church from around the Maryland, Washington, D.C. and Virginia regions. Young people continue to volunteer their time to assist visitors and to ensure that the Temple is accessible to all who want to visit.
"The response from the public has been inspiring, generous and heartwarming," said Kathryn Colton, who serves as co-chair of the Temple Open House Committee. "Our hope is that everyone who visits the Temple will find the peace and connection that brings them a bit closer to their families and a bit closer to heaven," she added. "After all, that's what the Temple is all about. A connection with our ancestors, with our families, and as a united, connected family of God."
The Purpose of Temples & Upcoming Rededication
Those coming to the Washington D.C. Temple Open House should understand that Latter-day Saints consider temples to be the most sacred space in the world. Ceremonies in each temple teach the purpose of life and unite families, past and present. A temple's mere presence reminds Latter-day Saints around the globe of the importance of having faith in the common Father of all humanity, the need for constant improvement of the soul, the possibility of family relationships that reach beyond the grave, and the salvation that comes only through the grace of Jesus Christ.
The Washington D.C. Temple Open House will continue through June 11, 2022. Open House ticket information is available at dctemple.org.
The temple rededication will take place on August 14. After that time, the temple will only be accessible to members of the Church who meet the requirements for temple worship. See more about who can enter a temple once it is dedicated here:
About the Temple: What Was Renovated?
The temple first opened in 1974 and closed in March 2018 for significant renovations. Energy-efficient mechanical, electrical and lighting systems throughout the 160,000-square-foot structure have been installed, as has new plumbing. More information about the Temple can be found in a special fact sheet: [link]
Dan Holt, project manager for the Washington D.C. Temple renovation project, said the intent was to "bring the building back to its original glory" as a midcentury modern structure. A gothic arch motif that directs eyes heavenward is prevalent throughout – in altars, carpeting, gold leafing and the reframed stained glass windows (now backlit with LED lights for more prominence) on the east and west sides of the temple. The windows' colors become lighter as they near the spire. This design, Holt said, signifies the "brighter light we have and the knowledge we receive from the gospel as we learn and grow and ascend to be more like our Heavenly Father."
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SOURCE Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/church-releases-first-virtual-tour-historic-washington-dc-temple-open-house-welcomes-100000-visitors-date/ | 2022-05-11T16:15:57Z |
Entrepreneur Brings Premier Facility Solutions to Birmingham
BIRMINGHAM, Ala., May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- City Wide Facility Solutions, the leading management company in the building maintenance industry, is opening a location in the Birmingham area — making this the first location in the state of Alabama, and number 76 across the U.S. and Canada. The new office will serve Birmingham and the surrounding areas.
Local building owners and property management companies throughout Birmingham and surrounding areas now have access to a single-source solution for all their facility management needs. Entrepreneur Edwin "Bubba" Snider III has partnered with Tim Spink and existing City Wide Facility Solutions owner Ken Miner (St. Louis) to open the City Wide Facility Solutions at 400 Century Park South, Suite 100 in Birmingham.
"We have such an experienced group opening this location, it's sure to be a win for the Birmingham market," said Snider. "Our City Wide Facility Solutions team is ready for action and prepared to provide our managed services to the community."
Before joining City Wide Facility Solutions, Snider had more than 20 years of experience in lab services. He led regional and national teams and managed mobile phlebotomists along with brick and mortar draw sites. Snider also grew his background in sales and client engagement during this period. Co-owner Miner has been with City Wide Facility Solutions as the owner of the St. Louis location since 2017. Additionally, both Miner and the third co-owner, Spink, have extensive experience with City Wide through previous employment at the corporate office.
Playing an instrumental role in boosting local economies, City Wide Facility Solutions puts business back into the community by partnering with smaller, independent and locally owned companies to execute services. Aligning with independent companies ensures clients have access to more specialized services while providing an opportunity for small businesses to develop alongside a reputable national company. More independent businesses and commercial properties will soon benefit from the opportunities and services City Wide affords, as additional locations are scheduled to open in California, Delaware, Georgia and Louisiana in the coming months.
For more information about City Wide Facility Solutions in Birmingham and the services it offers, please visit https://birmingham.gocitywide.com or call (205) 536-6121.
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SOURCE City Wide Facility Solutions | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/city-wide-facility-solutions-expands-with-birmingham-location/ | 2022-05-11T16:16:03Z |
NEW YORK, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Codat, the universal API for small business data, today announced the general availability launch of Assess, its new flagship risk product that enables smarter credit decisions on small to medium-sized businesses with real-time customer data via a single API. Codat built Assess in response to lender requests for a product that would support faster business decisions without increasing risks. Since Assess was made available to existing clients, 25 financial service providers have already made use of the new product, and it has been used in the underwriting process for more than 271 small businesses.
With multi-platform coverage and the ability to build and manage multiple integrations, Assess pulls real-time accounting, commerce, and banking data from the software customers already use. Codat also cross-references data sources to verify accuracy.
"Over the last 5 years, many millions of financial datasets have been processed via Codat's infrastructure," said Pete Lord, Codat's CEO. "The financial ratios, intelligent categorization and validation that Assess offers is the culmination of the scale of our experience and copious feedback from customers. It will help credit providers underwrite faster and smarter, providing a lifeline for some of the millions of businesses in the US who have fewer than 15 cash buffer days."
Before Assess, lenders had to first collect, then enrich and verify SMB data, making underwriting a manual, lengthy task. Many categorized and calculated ratios needed by hand, which meant the process was not only slow but prone to error, impacting risk ratios and difficult to scale. Assess enables SMB customers to share their data easily and then automatically enriches data, auto-generating ratios and metrics ready to be plugged into credit models. This reduces the time it takes to underwrite and gets much needed finance in the hands of the SMB faster.
"We've traditionally had to oversee ratios and metrics calculations that are fed into our scoring engine. As financial reports are often erroneous and miscategorized, this resulted in discrepant scoring and, ultimately, customer loss, said Dan Shapir, CTO and co-founder of Precise Finance. "We recently had the privilege of being part of the beta testing for Assess, which introduced a set of pre-calculated ratios and metrics and an auto-categories feature. It has reduced our development resources dramatically and yielded precise account classification, enabling us to increase customer acquisition."
Last year, the number of small businesses in the United States grew to 32.5 million, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration, underscoring the need for customized lending and data services for this growing market.
As Codat continues to expand its customer base and strategic growth initiatives, it launched Sync for Commerce, which automatically synchronizes sales data with accounting platforms, last month. Another product designed to ease the administrative burden for SMBs, Sync for Commerce radically simplifies the reconciliation process.
ABOUT CODAT
Codat is the universal API for small business data. Codat's API provides real-time connectivity to enable software providers and financial institutions to build integrated products for their SMB customers. Codat clients range from corporate card providers and forecasting software to lenders, and use cases span automatic reconciliation, loan decisioning, and more. Codat was founded in 2017 and has offices in London, New York, San Francisco, and Sydney. For more information, visit www.codat.io.
MEDIA CONTACT
FOR CODAT:
Chelsea Allison
Communications/PR, CMAND for Codat
chelsea@cmand.co
312-775-2856
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SOURCE Codat | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/codat-launches-new-flagship-risk-product-assess-smarter-smb-risk-decisioning/ | 2022-05-11T16:16:09Z |
POTOMAC, Md. , May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Z Advanced Computing, Inc. (ZAC), the pioneer Cognitive Explainable-AI (Artificial Intelligence) (Cognitive XAI) software startup, has won its 3rd US Air Force (USAF) contract for its detailed 3D image recognition. For the USAF projects, ZAC had demonstrated major AI and Machine Learning (ML) breakthroughs, including using only a few training samples, and using only an average laptop (using only CPU), for both training and recognition. In addition, ZAC has got similar major AI tech breakthroughs for the Smart Appliance project with Bosch/ BSH (the biggest appliance maker in Europe). ZAC tech is based on Cognitive Concept-Learning (as opposed to Pixel-Learning, by other algorithms). This is in sharp contrast to the other algorithms in industry that require thousands to billions of training samples, trained on large GPU servers.
"This cannot be done with the other algorithms, such as Deep Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) or ResNets, even with an extremely large number of training samples on a large number of GPU servers. Deep CNN is also very fragile and is easily fooled, with no explainability for its output," emphasized Dr. Bijan Tadayon, CEO of ZAC.
Some applications are: autonomous vehicles, e-commerce, ads, medical, satellite/aerial imaging, security, and smart homes/ appliances.
ZAC owns a very strong IP portfolio with over 450 inventions, including 13 issued US patents.
ZAC has an impressive team of scientists and developers. The development is headed by Saied Tadayon, a scientist and veteran software developer, and a math prodigy who ranked 1st as an undergrad at Cornell, and got his PhD from Cornell at age 23.
ZAC world-renowned advisors include Prof. David Lee (Nobel Laureate, Physics), Prof. Mory Gharib (former Vice Provost of Research, Caltech), late Prof. Robert Buhrman (former Sr. Vice Provost of Research, Cornell), Prof. Mo Jamshidi (UTSA, Founding Dir. of NASA Center for Autonomous Control, and US Army Science Board member), and Prof. Gholam Peyman, MD (Inventor of LASIK, and awarded National Medal of Technology and Innovation by the US President). The late Prof. Lotfi Zadeh of UC Berkeley (Father of Fuzzy Logic, co-inventor of Z-Transform, and AI Hall-of-Fame inductee) is also one of ZAC inventors.
Contact:
Z Advanced Computing, Inc. (ZAC)
Tel.: 301-294-0434
media@ZAdvancedComputing.com
www.ZAdvancedComputing.com
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SOURCE Z Advanced Computing, Inc. | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/cognitive-explainable-ai-artificial-intelligence-image-recognition-startup-won-3rd-us-air-force-contract-following-breakthrough-demos-using-only-few-training-samples-low-power-cpu/ | 2022-05-11T16:16:16Z |
GÖTEBORG, Sweden, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Concordia Maritime publishes a correction of the press release "Sale of Suezmax tanker Stena Supreme" which was published today, 11 May 2022 at 16:15 CEST. The correction refers to the fact that the mail version of the press release lacked a reference to the EU Market Abuse Regulation (MAR).
The following text should have been included in the mail version of the press release:
This information is information that Concordia Maritime Aktiebolag (publ) is obliged to publish in accordance with the EU Market Abuse Regulation. The information was provided by the contact person above for publication on 11 May 2022 at 16.15 CEST.
CONTACT:
For more information, please contact:
Erik Lewenhaupt
CEO, Concordia Maritime AB
0704-855 188
erik.lewenhaupt@concordiamaritime.com
This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com
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SOURCE Concordia Maritime | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/correction-missing-mar-reference-press-release-sale-suezmax-tanker-stena-supreme/ | 2022-05-11T16:16:22Z |
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Crown Sterling Limited LLC, leader in Personal Data Sovereignty and provider of quantum resistant encryption and compression technologies, hosted a leadership summit for over 40 blockchain and crypto thought leaders in Giza, Egypt last month in partnership with Crypterns. Crypterns specializes in providing talent/staffing solutions and educational programs designed for all levels, from introducing the basics of crypto to designing the latest innovations of this most revolutionary industry.
The first of its kind, this event brought together industry leaders for an experience to empower self-discovery, connect communities, and co-create sustainable solutions for the future of the industry. Workshops covered leadership development and company growth and management led by Robert E. Grant, Founder and CEO of Crown Sterling, as well as dynamic group discussions on how to accomplish the goals through the vehicle of Crypterns to help push the industry forward. Key areas of focus included plans to assist in the mainstream adoption of cryptocurrencies as well as establishing a trusted information hub for consumers. The event also included keynotes from Her Royal Highness Queen of the Bakwa Indu at Kasai Democratic Republic of Congo; theoretical physicist, author and Nobel laureate Lawrence Krauss; computer scientist and businessman Craig Wright; and Chinwe Esimai, author, lawyer, and corporate executive.
"It was an honor to co-host the Crypterns Alliance event. The group discussions were provocative and inspirational. Attendees left the conference with clear objectives and an action plan for both industry advocacy and mainstream consumer adoption of cryptocurrencies," said Mr. Grant.
Dustin Plantholt, Founder and CEO of Crypterns, shared, "Our inaugural Crypterns Alliance Retreat was a huge success - mainly attributed to the devoted staff, mindful support of our partner Crown Sterling's unrivaled team, and the extraordinary participants. I found this to be a truly unforgettable experience on both a professional and personal level. Spending quality time connecting with such awe-inspiring individuals and pioneering minds brought further clarity to our mission. Through our committed and continuous collaborative efforts, Crypterns and its Alliance partners will empower the workforce that drives blockchain, positively impact society, and change the world. We are forever grateful for this week."
Crown Sterling is also excited to announce the listing of WCSOV on UniSwap, a cryptocurrency exchange which uses a decentralized network protocol. The protocol facilitates automated transactions between cryptocurrency tokens on the Ethereum blockchain through the use of smart contracts. With data emerging as the most valuable asset of the digital age, Crown Sterling's mission is to empower individuals to protect, control, and monetize their data in an era of largely unregulated Big Tech vulnerability and monopolization. For more on Crown Sterling and CSOV, join the community on Telegram and Twitter.
Crown Sterling is a pioneer of personal data sovereignty technologies. The Crown Sterling Chain is a live network on the Polkadot network, with quantum-resistant One-Time Pad encryption as an option for the blockchain's state transition function, which is the process flow of transactions on a network. The Crown Sovereign ($CSOV), a quantum-resistant utility token, enables users to participate in a broad range of product offerings, including quantum-resistant cryptography and NFTs, as well as other future compression technologies. Crown Sterling looks forward to becoming the leading data and digital asset management platform.
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SOURCE Crown Sterling | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/crown-sterling-hosts-blockchain-leadership-summit-giza-egypt/ | 2022-05-11T16:16:28Z |
Acquisition will greatly enhance the nationwide logistics provider's service in the southeast.
HOUSTON, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Diligent Delivery Systems, a nationwide transportation and logistics service provider, today announced the acquisition of Express Courier International (ECI). ECI provides customized logistics solutions through 26 branches across eight states in the southeastern United States. They currently operate transportation logistics and transportation services to customers including Office Depot, McKesson, The Home Depot, and Lab Corp.
The acquisition complements Diligent's existing network and services, and serves as a major boost to the company's shipping and delivery capabilities in the southeast, while solidifying its status as one of the fastest growing logistics companies in the nation.
"Diligent is excited to bring its nationwide transportation and delivery solutions to ECI customers, and we look forward to having ECI personnel join the Diligent team," said Diligent founder and CEO Larry Browne.
Terms of the acquisition were not made public.
About Diligent
Founded in 1994, Diligent Delivery Systems provides turn-key professional shipping and delivery services. With a nationwide network of more than fifty locations and 5,600 driver associates, Diligent completes thousands of local, regional and nationwide deliveries daily. Learn more at DiligentUSA.com.
Contact:
Linda Wickersham
Client Relations Director
281-854-1331
lwickersham@diligentusa.com
9200 Derrington Rd. Suite 100
Houston, TX 77064
888.374.3354 TOLL FREE
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SOURCE Diligent Delivery Systems | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/diligent-delivery-systems-acquires-express-courier-international/ | 2022-05-11T16:16:34Z |
easyMarkets is once again launching a new product giving our clients even more choice when trading.
LIMASSOL,Cyprus, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Adding to our already robust selection of platforms including easyMarkets proprietary web and mobile platform, MT4 and TradingView, we now offer MT5 with variable spreads and higher leverage of 500:1 (higher leverage is not available for European and Australian clients due to regulation).
We believe that this new product launch will better facilitate our client's trading, allowing them to choose between floating or fixed spreads – or both if they choose to, all in the same ecosystem. Our mission is and always has been to offer traders an industry leading experience, and that's why we are tirelessly developing and launching updates to our services, products and platforms we offer. We are also constantly adding to the list of shares and other instruments on all our platforms including MT5.
Chief Marketing Officer Ohad Golan
This gives our clients even more choice when trading, with all the benefits and risk management tools available on MT4 including:
- Negative Balance Protection
- No Commission or hidden fees
- Expert Advisors (EA) allowed
Why does easyMarkets offer variable spreads on MT5?
Variable spreads, fluctuate depending on market conditions (generally when there is increased liquidity or high volatility) – meaning they become tighter or wider, whereas fixed spreads never change during market hours and this gives clients yet another strategy to use when trading. Also in general variable spreads are lower than fixed, but require closer exposure management.
We want our clients to have all the strategic advantages available to them when on the market. If our clients' strategy and trading methods are better served by variable or fixed spreads they have that choice with easyMarkets!
Sign up is simple and straightforward once the client has registered and confirmed their account.
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Whitehead received life-saving treatment at CHOP, under the care of Dr. Stephan Grupp, transforming the field of cancer immunotherapy
PHILADELPHIA , May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Ten years ago, Tom and Kari Whitehead came to Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) looking for a miracle. Their 6-year-old daughter, Emily, had relapsed in her battle with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), after many months of unsuccessful chemotherapy and a disease that had progressed so rapidly that she was ineligible for a bone marrow transplant to treat it. Her local medical team had told her family there was nothing left to do but bring Emily home and allow her to die peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.
Unwilling to accept this outcome, her family came to CHOP in the hopes that Dr. Stephan Grupp, a pioneer in the field of cellular immunotherapy, could provide the miracle they were looking for. Dr. Grupp had been working in close collaboration with researchers Drs. Carl June, Bruce Levine, and David Porter at Penn Medicine's Abramson Cancer Center to establish a protocol to infuse, for the first time in children, a brand-new CAR T-cell therapy product targeted against leukemia. Then an experimental treatment in its earliest days, CAR T-cell therapy harnesses the power of a patient's own immune system by reengineering their T cells to attack proteins found on the surface of cancer cells.
Dr. Grupp and the research team were about to open the first phase 1 trial for CAR T-cell therapy in pediatric patients with ALL, based on early success Penn scientists had already seen in three adult patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia. With no time to lose, Emily became the first patient to enroll in the new trial, making her the first pediatric patient ever to receive the treatment and the first patient of any age to receive it for ALL.
Ten years later, it is clear the Whiteheads found the miracle they sought. The journey was uncharted and at times bumpy, as the research team encountered the unexpected twists and turns that come with being the first to administer a brand-new treatment. But the treatment worked far better than anyone might have anticipated, and to this day, Emily is cancer free.
"What we learned from Emily has defined the entire field of CAR T-cell therapy," said Dr. Grupp, Section Chief of the Cellular Therapy and Transplant Section, and Inaugural Director of the Susan S. and Stephen P. Kelly Center for Cancer Immunotherapy at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.
"Ten years ago, we had no idea what to expect. Would the treatment work? Would it last? In the end, her outcomes far exceeded our most optimistic expectations – not only did the treatment work for completely uncontrolled disease, but her engineered T cells endured and prevented relapse for what has now been 10 years. We have since treated more than 440 patients at CHOP with this therapy, and thousands of pediatric patients around the world have received it as well. It has truly been a revolution in pediatric cancer care, and it started with Emily."
"Each of the earliest patients to receive CAR T cell therapy was a brave pioneer – we have learned something from each patient, and each of them has served as a link to the next patients to improve the way we care for them and keep our teams working hard in the lab to apply this approach to help both adults and children with even more types of cancer," said Dr. June, the Richard W. Vague Professor in Immunotherapy in the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and director of Penn's Center for Cellular Immunotherapies. "The Whiteheads and other families who've participated in our trials have been extraordinary partners in the transformation of cancer care."
Learning on the Fly
Emily's CAR T journey began in March 2012, when her T cells were harvested and sent to the Cell and Vaccine Production Facility at Penn, where the team modified Emily's cells with a chimeric antigen receptor, or CAR, that targeted CD19, a protein found on the surface of ALL cancer cells. A month later, after Emily had undergone chemotherapy to reset her immune system, the engineered CAR-modified T-cells were infused in her body over a period of three days.
However, soon after the infusion, she became critically ill. Her blood pressure plummeted, her temperature skyrocketed, and she was having difficulty breathing. She ended up in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), while the medical team worked day and night to identify the source of the problem. Over the course of a few days, Emily's condition deteriorated, and the team and Emily's family prepared for the eventuality that Emily might not survive.
Just when the outlook seemed most bleak, the team received measurements of Emily's cytokines. Cytokines are proteins that control immune responses, but they can cause severe reactions and death when the immune system becomes too activated. The Penn and CHOP teams conferred after noticing that one protein (interleukin-6 or IL-6) was particularly elevated. In a stroke of serendipity, IL-6 was one of the few cytokines in 2012 with an FDA-approved drug that blocks it. In a Hail Mary moment, Dr. Grupp gave Emily the drug, an arthritis treatment called tocilizumab, hoping it would bring her reaction under control and give her a fighting chance.
Remarkably, Emily's condition improved rapidly – within hours. She not only recovered from her condition, which was unnamed at the time but is now known as cytokine release syndrome (CRS), but the engineered T cells did exactly what they were intended to do: they eradicated the cancer and put Emily into remission.
"Through Emily, we learned how to control CRS when it gets serious in these patients, and that information has been disseminated throughout world and used by all physicians that treat patients with CAR T-cell therapy," Dr. Grupp said. "Tocilizumab is now a standard part of the CAR T treatment protocol for patients who present with CRS."
Beyond ALL – and Beyond CAR T
On August 30, 2017, five years after Emily was treated, the FDA approved the CAR T-cell therapy product used to treat Emily, now called tisagenlecleucel or Kymriah. It was the first CAR T treatment in the world, as well as the first gene therapy in the US, and this brand-new field of medicine began with this approval for pediatric ALL. Since then, the FDA has approved a total of six CAR T-cell therapies, for conditions ranging from diffuse large B cell lymphoma to multiple myeloma.
Since Emily's treatment, researchers have made inroads into treating other pediatric cancers with CAR T. Investigators, including CHOP's Assistant Vice President and Chief Clinical Research Officer Dr. Richard Aplenc and the Chief of the Hematologic Malignancies Program Dr. Sarah K. Tasian, are studying the use of CAR T to treat acute myeloid leukemia (AML). AML is an aggressive blood cancer that requires more intensive chemotherapy and generally has a poor prognosis. CAR T for AML is still in the early stages, but studies are ongoing.
Researchers are also looking into the potential use of CAR T-cell therapy to treat solid tumors, which have been more challenging to treat with immunotherapy because the tumors find ways of excluding T cells and preventing them from entering and killing the tumor. Dr. John M. Maris, Giulio D'Angio Chair in Neuroblastoma Research at CHOP, is working with the Kelly Center team on an upcoming trial of CAR T-cells targeted against GPC2 and is currently investigating the use of CAR T-cell therapy that targets other unique cancer targets. Both are designed to treat neuroblastoma, an aggressive pediatric cancer with poor cure rates.
Beyond cancer, the principles that led to Emily's successful treatment – engineering her own cells to fight disease and infusing those cells back in her body – are being used in other clinical areas to develop potentially curative therapies. Currently, Dr. Grupp leads the study steering committee for clinical trials investigating the use of the gene editing tool CRISPR to treat patients with sickle cell disease, a process that involves harvesting patients' cells, editing them, and transfusing the corrected cells back into patients with the goal of curing the patients. Although this approach is fundamentally different than CAR T-cell therapy, both the concept and the engineered cell therapy approach stems from this first FDA approval, and the foundation laid by the experience of patients like Emily.
The "C Word"
Patients receiving conventional cancer treatment are generally considered cured once they have been in remission for five years. However, given the novelty of Emily's treatment, Dr. Grupp and his research team felt it was premature to call Emily cured at her five-year follow-up appointment.
"I've always been cautious about calling this a cure," Dr. Grupp said. "We actually refer to it as the 'C word.' But now we're 10 years out. Do I believe Emily is cured? Do I believe other children who are 5 or 9 years out from their CAR T therapy are cured? I believe they are."
Not all patients who receive CAR T for relapsed ALL reach the same outcome as Emily. Currently, more than 90% of patients who receive CAR T-cell therapy for relapsed ALL will go into remission; approximately 50% of those patients will remain cancer free. Although the other 50% eventually relapse, prior to CAR-T only 9% of patients with relapsed ALL remained cancer free. Cellular therapy has vastly improved those outcomes, and researchers are continuing to advance the field so that more patients never relapse.
"Everybody talks about bench to bedside research, and it's incredibly important, but there is also now this opportunity of bedside to bench," Dr. Grupp said. "We are studying the cells of patients who receive this treatment and achieve exceptional responses like Emily and many others and are trying to reverse engineer what we see so we can achieve a sustained response in even more patients. So not only are we helping the patients we treat, but the patients are actually teaching us more about how to help future patients. That's what Emily did."
What a Cure Looks Like
Emily is now almost 17 and a junior in high school. She recently received her driver's license and is driving as much as she can. Soon, she will take the SATs and begin drafting college essays, with the intention of applying to colleges in the fall. Eventually, she'd like to pursue a career in film or environmental science.
Her father, Tom, says seeing her behind the wheel, living a normal teenage life, is something he has dreamed about since the CAR T-cell therapy put Emily into remission.
"To look at her every day and to see what a cure for cancer actually looks like – it's pretty amazing for us," Tom said. "Our goal is to spread the word about the potential of this treatment so that other families can have the same outcome as us. I tell people all the time that the best move we ever made with Emily was bringing her to Children's Hospital of Philadelphia when we did."
Given their experience with CAR T at CHOP, the Whitehead family started the Emily Whitehead Foundation in 2015 to help more families by funding the most promising cutting-edge cancer research, including CAR T-cell therapy and other immunotherapies. Now in its eighth year, the foundation has supported numerous cancer researchers, including those at CHOP.
Emily doesn't remember much about her treatment, but she is grateful for the doctors and nurses who have allowed her to think about her future and not about her past.
"Not only are those doctors and nurses helping kids get better, but they're saving their families as well," she said. "Having the opportunity to leave the hospital and come home and just live a normal life – getting a license or going to college – it's so important to families who have had to go through cancer treatment."
Based on Emily's success, researchers like Dr. Grupp imagine a future where minimal chemotherapy could be given to patients with ALL, followed by CAR T. Doing so would transform how leukemia is treated and would be a huge improvement for families and patients, who traditionally have needed up to three years of chemotherapy. The field isn't there yet, but when Dr. Grupp looks back at the past 10 years, he suspects it is only a matter of time.
"If you had told me when we first treated Emily what the next 10 years would look like, I would have said 'you're dreaming'. I would have said that there's no chance that any of this could work as well as it has, that we could have gone from treating Emily to FDA approval in 5 years, that we could have multiple FDA-approved products based on the initial experience treating patients at Penn and CHOP," Dr. Grupp said. "It has all succeeded way beyond any of our wildest imaginations."
About Children's Hospital of Philadelphia: A non-profit, charitable organization, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia was founded in 1855 as the nation's first pediatric hospital. Through its long-standing commitment to providing exceptional patient care, training new generations of pediatric healthcare professionals, and pioneering major research initiatives, the 595-bed hospital has fostered many discoveries that have benefited children worldwide. Its pediatric research program is among the largest in the country. The institution has a well-established history of providing advanced pediatric care close to home through its CHOP Care Network, which includes more than 50 primary care practices, specialty care and surgical centers, urgent care centers, and community hospital alliances throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey, as well as a new inpatient hospital with a dedicated pediatric emergency department in King of Prussia. In addition, its unique family-centered care and public service programs have brought Children's Hospital of Philadelphia recognition as a leading advocate for children and adolescents. For more information, visit http://www.chop.edu.
Contact: Ashley Moore
Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
(267) 426-6071
Moorea1@chop.edu
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ATLANTA, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Equity Prime Mortgage (EPM) is entering a new era with the announcement of Laura Brandao as Chief Growth Officer.
EPM's CEO, Eddy Perez says, "We are excited to welcome Laura Brandao to EPM's executive team. Brandao's leadership and culture of progression makes our mission of empowering people stronger. Please help us welcome Laura Brandao as our newly appointed Chief Growth Officer at EPM. We couldn't be more excited for what she will bring to our organization."
A well-regarded champion for the industry, Laura Brandao joins EPM as a shareholder and part of the executive team after having launched AFR wholesale in 2007, which grew to a top 10 national wholesale lender. Brandao is the Chair of NAMMBA's Visionary program, The Chair of the MBANJ Women's committee, The Chair of Women with Vision, a board member of Mortflix, and is a mortgage executive coach - as well as a 3 -time best-selling author.
Her most recent honors include: 2022 10 Most Inspirational Businesswomen, 2021 MPA Housing Industry Icon, a four-time winner of Most Powerful Women in mortgage, a 3-time Woman of Influence, and a 3-time Women with Vision, as well as a 2022 NJBIZ Top leaders in finance.
In her position as Chief Growth Officer, Brandao's mission is to unify through collaboration in every department at EPM, truly grow the brand and the company to the heights of being a top ten lender. Laura has led thousands in this industry and is a pivotal pundit of mortgage, leadership, culture, and personal development.
"I'm excited to start this new adventure with EPM of empowering people more," Brandao says. "As Chief Growth Officer, it is my hope that we make a bigger impact on the mortgage industry together. Thank you all for your support and love. We look forward to serving, supporting, and celebrating with you."
BEGINNINGS:
Equity Prime Mortgage (EPM) was founded at the height of the mortgage crisis in 2008 and has grown to become one of the leading mortgage lenders in the U.S. Headquartered in Atlanta, GA, EPM is licensed in 50 states and provides an array of lending resources such as Conventional, FHA, VA, 203K, Reverse and USDA loans, and a trusted Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac & Ginnie Mae Seller/Servicer.
For more information about EPM, visit us online at www.epm.net or call toll-free (877) 255-3554. Equity Prime Mortgage is an Equal Housing Lender. NMLS #21116 nmlsconsumeraccess.org
If you would like more information about this topic, please call Blaine McCarty at (678)205-3554, or email reachout@epm.net
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SOURCE Equity Prime Mortgage | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/epm-welcomes-laura-brandao-chief-growth-officer/ | 2022-05-11T16:16:54Z |
TORONTO, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - EQ Bank, powered by Equitable Bank, Canada's Challenger Bank™, announced it has increased its USD account interest rate by 25bps to 1.25%1. The new rate is now in effect.
Increasing the rate on US dollar accounts is just another way of providing more value to Canadians. By reimagining what a US account can be, EQ Bank's US Dollar Account takes leading interest rates and combines it with one of the lowest exchange rates in the Canadian market2. Add to that no monthly fees and no minimum balances and you have the best place to manage your US dollars. Through its integration with Wise, EQ Bank has also made it simple to send those US dollars internationally, at a fraction of the cost of other banks, and without having to convert your funds to CAD first.
Faced with dismally low interest rates in the broader market, today's rate increase brings an instant boost to Canadians' pockets.
"When we launched US dollar accounts, we wanted to give our customers a far better alternative to what was available in the market," says Mahima Poddar, SVP and Group Head of Personal Banking for EQ Bank. "It's not just about a great rate, but it's truly the best account for people who want to grow and send US dollars."
EQ Bank customers can open a US Dollar Account in just a few clicks, and with no paperwork or lineups, customers can start sending, saving and converting their US dollars in a matter of minutes.
EQ Bank has remained committed to bringing smarter banking solutions to Canadians, focused on providing far more value than traditional banks while removing everyday banking complexities such as the need for separate savings and chequing accounts. With over $7B in deposits and more than 250,000 customers, EQ Bank was named the top Schedule I Bank in Canada on the Forbes World's Best Banks 2022 and 2021 lists.
The new 1.25%1 interest rate is now available to all current and new customers and applies to EQ Bank US Dollar Accounts. All EQ Bank deposit products are eligible for CDIC deposit insurance†.
About EQ Bank
EQ Bank, the digital banking platform launched in 2016 by Equitable Bank (a federally regulated Schedule I bank), provides state-of-the-art digital banking services. The Savings Plus Account reimagines banking by offering an everyday high interest rate, plus the flexibility of a chequing account, with free transactions, no everyday banking fees, no minimum balances, fast, cheap, and fully transparent international money transfers, and more—all from one account. Its Guaranteed Investment Certificates (GICs) also offer Canadians a wide range of options with competitive rates. EQ Bank has been named the top Schedule I Bank in Canada on the Forbes World's Best Banks 2022 and 2021 lists. To learn more, please visit www.eqbank.ca.
About Equitable Bank
Equitable Group Inc. trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: EQB, EQB.PR.C and EQB.R) and serves more than 340,000 Canadians through its wholly owned subsidiary Equitable Bank, Canada's Challenger Bank™. Equitable Bank has a clear mandate to drive change in Canadian banking to enrich people's lives. Founded over 50 years ago, Equitable Bank provides diversified personal and commercial banking and through its EQ Bank platform (eqbank.ca) has been named the top Schedule I Bank in Canada on the Forbes World's Best Banks 2022 and 2021 lists. Please visit equitablebank.ca for details.
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SOURCE Equitable Group Inc. | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/eq-bank-increases-interest-rate-us-dollar-accounts-125/ | 2022-05-11T16:17:00Z |
TCV Leads Series C investment for fast-growing AI contract management company
SAN MATEO, Calif. , May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Evisort, the no-code contract intelligence platform loved by legal, procurement, and sales operations teams worldwide, today announced it has raised $100 million in capital, including equity and venture debt financing. This latest round of funding is led by global growth investor TCV, a key investor in Airbnb, LinkedIn, Netflix, and other market-defining companies. TCV General Partner Amol Helekar will join the Evisort board of directors. This financing round includes participation by Breyer Capital and all major existing investors, including General Atlantic, Microsoft's venture capital fund M12, Amity Ventures, and Vertex Ventures.
"Every time an organization buys, sells, hires, or otherwise transacts, it creates a contractual data layer. We created Evisort because it is absolutely critical for organizations to easily access and manage this data inside their contracts. We couldn't be more grateful for the trust of our hundreds of customers to build this innovative technology with us," said Evisort Co-Founder and CEO Jerry Ting. "Now, we will accelerate this momentum as these additional funds will supplement our existing capital to further our vision for making contract operations stronger and more meaningful than ever."
The company will use the funds to enhance the customer experience, continue to invest in its world-class product, and accelerate global growth. This announcement follows recent key executive hires, including Michaela Dempsey of Workday as Chief Marketing Officer, Steve Tucker of Docusign as Chief Sales Officer, and Dwight Krossa of Knowable as Vice President of Product.
"At TCV, we are excited about our investment in Evisort. We believe Evisort's proven AI platform solves increasingly important pain points for many businesses – to extract value from contract data, streamline the contracting process, and improve the efficiency of legal operations," said Amol Helekar, General Partner at TCV and Evisort board member. "Contracts are core to many critical functional areas such as legal, sales, and procurement. The fact that Fortune 500 customers and mid-sized businesses alike can implement and realize value with Evisort across business functions in less than a month underscores the platform's usability across industries and use cases."
Reflected in Evisort's rapid revenue growth, enterprises are accelerating contract management operations as they have needed to:
- Identify data-backed opportunities to generate revenue, improve margins, and cut costs
- Eliminate manual tasks that drive employee job dissatisfaction and burnout
- Pivot rapidly due to evolving geopolitical conditions, ESG regulations, and supply chain disruption
Evisort's market-leading AI supports all three of these imperatives and more. Unlike most contract management solutions that focus on digitizing existing workflows, Evisort's cloud-native contract intelligence platform not only helps businesses operate faster and more efficiently, it identifies and surfaces relevant insights to help contract professionals and stakeholders deliver exceptional business results.
"Evisort has been instrumental in accelerating operations, reducing manual work, managing risk, and delivering better business outcomes," said Connie Brenton, Vice President, Strategy, Technology, and Operations at NetApp, Inc. and Founder of the Corporate Legal Operations Consortium (CLOC).
Evisort is committed to streamlining and automating contract management processes for its clients, and customer acquisition momentum continues to be strong. Customers include Bank of New York Mellon, Jelly Belly, Keller Williams, Microsoft, Motley Fool, NetApp, Otsuka Pharmaceutical, Vonage, and more.
Join Evisort and Keller Williams for an interactive webinar on May 24th on how organizations can accelerate and improve the return on their investment in contract management and build greater visibility into their contracting processes.
Additional recent milestones for Evisort include:
- Receiving 10 Stevie Awards in 2022's American Business Awards, including gold in the categories of Legal Company of the Year, Legal Information Solution, Business or Competitive Intelligence Solution, and Legal Solution
- Winning the Artificial Intelligence Excellence Award from the Business Intelligence Group
- Releasing the breakthrough Intelligent Dashboarding feature, a significant addition to the company's widely-used Contract Intelligence Platform
About Evisort
Evisort is the leading transformative business solution for contract management and analysis. Powered by proprietary artificial intelligence (AI) trained on 10M+ contracts and billions of data points, Evisort's technology parses the nuanced context and meaning of legal language and helps teams protect, scale, and accelerate their businesses. Headquartered in Silicon Valley, the company serves legal, IT, finance, and procurement organizations around the world. For more information about Evisort, visit evisort.com, call (888) 384-7678, email info@evisort.com, or connect with us on LinkedIn or Twitter.
About TCV
Founded in 1995, TCV was established with a clear vision: to capture opportunities in the technology market through a specialized and consistent focus on investing in high-growth companies. Since inception, the firm has built a track record of successfully backing public and private businesses that have developed into dominant industry players across internet, software, FinTech, and enterprise IT. TCV has invested over $16 billion to date and has helped guide CEOs through more than 145 IPOs and strategic acquisitions. TCV has invested in cutting-edge technology companies including Airbnb, Believe, Brex, Dream Sports, FarEye, Mollie, Nubank, Razorpay, RELEX Solutions, Revolut, RMS, Sportradar, Spotify, Trade Republic, The Pracuj Group, and Zepz. TCV has successfully executed over 350 investments of varying structures, including mid-stage, late stage and public company investments, and has offices in Menlo Park, New York, and London. For more information about TCV, including a complete list of TCV investments, visit https://www.tcv.com/.
Evisort
Kimberly Dimicco
media@evisort.com
TCV
Kelley Hodge
khodge@tcv.com
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SOURCE Evisort | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/evisort-raises-100m-funding-led-by-tcv/ | 2022-05-11T16:17:06Z |
American Lung Association Lung Health Cohort now accepting study participants in Chicago, 39 other sites across the U.S. to start recruiting soon
CHICAGO, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Lung disease is now a leading cause of death in the country due to the increase in COVID-19 infections and related deaths. At a time when lung health is more important than ever, today, the American Lung Association and Northwestern Medicine announced they are now accepting participants in Chicago for a groundbreaking study of millennial lung health.
The American Lung Association Lung Health Cohort is the first-ever large-scale lung health study that will track 4,000 young adults (aged 25-35) at the age of peak lung health. Scientists across the country will follow these millennials for approximately five years after their initial interviews to evaluate how their environment, lifestyle and physical activity habits affect respiratory health.
Northwestern Medicine is the first Lung Health Cohort site in the country and the lead institution for the study and is now accepting participants. University of Illinois Hospital is also accepting study participants. Those interested can sign up here.
"Historically, lung health has been studied only after the appearance of chronic lung disease. Little has been done, however, to understand the evolution of respiratory disease and determine how a young, healthy adult's lung function declines over time," said Ravi Kalhan, M.D., M.S., Northwestern Medicine Pulmonologist and Lung Health Cohort Principal Investigator. "The Lung Health Cohort Study promises to be among the most innovative and significant longitudinal studies conducted to date. We hope to learn about how chronic lung diseases evolve, so scientists can propose new interception and prevention strategies that may effectively reduce the physical, emotional, financial and social burden of chronic lung disease. We also hope to determine whether air pollution, inhalants like marijuana and e-cigarettes, COVID-19 and other outside factors correlate with lower lung function."
Here are some details about the American Lung Association Lung Health Cohort study:
- It will follow 4,000 young adults at the age of peak lung health, from 25 to 35 years old, in many different regions across the U.S., painting a clear picture of lung health across geography and demography.
- Each participant will be tracked for approximately five years on measures of lung function, respiratory symptoms, and information including where they have lived, where and what they did for work, as well as health behaviors, fitness, biomarkers and chest imaging.
- This study will use low-dose chest computed tomography (CT) scans, a specialized x-ray that gives a detailed picture of the lungs,to track any signs of early or intermediate lung injury or abnormalities, which clinicians can use to build a library of lung images in various stages of health and disease.
- The American Lung Association's Airways Clinical Research Centers (ACRC) Network will conduct the research working closely with researchers at Northwestern Medicine, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Brigham and Women's Hospital, University of Michigan, University of Alabama-Birmingham, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and all of the ACRC centers.
"Due to the persistent COVID-19 pandemic, lung disease is now a leading cause of death in the U.S., and lung cancer is still the leading cause of cancer death, which is why this groundbreaking study comes at a time where lung health is more important than ever," said Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association. "This study is critical to our work to help people diagnose lung disease earlier and also work to prevent it."
The longitudinal study is made possible through a $24.8 million grant from the National Institutes of Health. As the study continues, the goal is to renew the grant so the scientists can continue to follow study participants for the rest of their lives.
Recruitment efforts have already begun in Chicago and will begin soon at 39 additional recruitment sites at top institutions across the country. The scientists will leverage the national infrastructure of the American Lung Association's Airways Clinical Research Centers, the largest national non-profit clinical network dedicated to asthma and COPD research. Those interested in participating in the study can sign up here.
To learn more about the American Lung Association Lung Health Cohort or to speak with a lung health expert or the principal investigator, contact Jill Dale at Media@Lung.org or 312-940-7001.
About the American Lung Association
The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy and research. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to champion clean air for all; to improve the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families; and to create a tobacco-free future. For more information about the American Lung Association, a holder of the coveted 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and a Gold-Level GuideStar Member, or to support the work it does, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org.
American Lung Association
1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) Lung.org
CONTACT: Jill Dale | American Lung Association
P: 312-940-7001 M: 720-438-8289 E: Jill.Dale@Lung.org
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Scholarship eligibility is for qualifying, female-identifying high school
students with Washington, D.C. residency who seek a STEM coding
camp education and experience
WASHINGTON, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- FiscalNote, a leading technology provider of global policy and market intelligence, along with The Wendy K. Martinez Legacy Project and Girls in Technology (GIT), today announced the inaugural "Wendy K. Martinez Memorial Coding Scholarship" for qualifying Washington, D.C. residents in high school in pursuit of a STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) coding camp education and experience.
Wendy Martinez, FiscalNote's former chief of staff and a proponent of female entrepreneurship, fervently believed in the unlimited possibilities which can be achieved when women and girls are both represented and empowered at the intersection of community and technology. Wendy was the victim of a senseless and random act of violence while jogging in Washington, D.C., and passed away on September 18, 2018. Wendy's friends and family established The Wendy Martinez Legacy Project in the wake of this tragedy. Its mission is to provide strategic grants and support projects which encourage women's empowerment through running, technology, entrepreneurship, and leadership.
FiscalNote's inaugural "Wendy K. Martinez Memorial Coding Scholarship" will provide a female-identifying District of Columbia resident with an up-to $20,000 scholarship to attend a multi-week, in-person, or virtual STEM/coding camp experience, such as those hosted by Capitol City Robotics or Code Wiz, among others.
To submit an application, please visit here. The deadline for applications to be submitted is Friday, June 10, 2022.
Qualifications/Criteria
To be eligible, applicants must meet each of the following criteria:
- identify as female or non-binary and a current District of Columbia resident
- enrolled in Grades 9, 10, 11, or 12
- recognized for at least one academic or STEM achievement
- involved in at least one GIT workshop or program session, or similar two-hour STEM program
- demonstrated community service or volunteerism, or a commitment to family or peers
- demonstrated a commitment to pursue a career or higher education in STEM fields
FiscalNote encourages anyone who wishes to make a donation in Wendy's memory to consider one of FiscalNote's community partners:
- A Wider Circle
- Calvary Women's Services
- DCPS Adopt-a-School Program
- Girls in Technology
- Girls on the Run
- Greater Washington Community Foundation
- Latinas in Tech • Washington, D.C. Chapter
- Wendy Martinez Legacy Project
- Women Who Code
About FiscalNote
FiscalNote is a leading global technology provider of legal and policy data and insights. By combining AI capabilities, expert analysis, and legislative, regulatory, and geopolitical data, FiscalNote is reinventing the way that organizations minimize risk and capitalize on opportunity.
Home to CQ, Roll Call, Oxford Analytica, and VoterVoice, FiscalNote empowers clients worldwide to monitor, manage, and act on the issues that matter most to them. To learn more about FiscalNote and its family of brands, visit FiscalNote.com and follow @FiscalNote.
Media Contact
Nicholas Graham
FiscalNote
press@fiscalnote.com
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SOURCE FiscalNote | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/fiscalnote-announces-inaugural-wendy-k-martinez-memorial-coding-scholarship/ | 2022-05-11T16:17:18Z |
New partners join initiative catalyzing economic mobility for individuals across North America to access stable, well-paying careers
ROCKVILLE, Md., May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Goodwill, the leading nonprofit provider of job training and placement services in North America, today announced five new partners — Accenture, Bank of America, Comcast Internet Essentials, Lowe's and USAA — are joining its Rising Together™ initiative, expanding its reach and impact. While the U.S. economy continues to improve, the recovery has not been equitable. Rising Together™ is connecting people, particularly those who traditionally faced barriers to sustainable, well-paying jobs, to ensure they have access to a wide range of resources. These resources include skills training, job placement, transportation and internet access.
Experience the interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/8993551-goodwill-rising-together-initiative-announces-new-partnerships-increase-access-careers/
Launched in May 2021, this growing collective of committed Industry leaders, including global leaders, philanthropic leaders and Fortune 50 companies, are working to empower more than one million individuals with sustainable careers by 2025. The new partners join the Anthem Foundation, Coursera, Google, Indeed and Lyft in their work with Goodwill to advance equitable opportunities for all people by providing individuals with the skills and critical services needed to access sustainable jobs — stable, well-paying careers with potential for growth.
"The accelerating transition in our labor market is creating opportunities for people to move into higher-paying, more promising career tracks. With employers eager to hire, we are working with people to help them get the skills they need to succeed," said Steven C. Preston, president and CEO of Goodwill Industries International. "We're proud to announce these new partners in Rising Together™ as they are helping to provide access to skills training and other holistic support to people looking to invest in better futures for themselves and their families."
Rising Together™ has already helped people in 33 states and Canada access job training and placement programs, transportation services, and more that provide the skills and other services people need to both enter and stay in the workforce. The initiative is now expanding its engagement to include 93 communities across the U.S. and Canada.
With the addition of the new partners, Rising Together™ is growing to include more local Goodwill communities and will provide more opportunity to gain digital skills training, healthcare career development, virtual reality interview practices and more.
Rising Together™ partners are using their combined resources to support the holistic needs of all job seekers. Together with Goodwill:
- Accenture will expand its Skills to Succeed services for youth and young adults, which provides skills training and resources to help them navigate their careers. The program also uses immersive virtual reality training to help people impacted by the criminal justice system learn to tell their stories on a personal level to interviewers and other people in their lives.
- Bank of America is supporting Goodwill career coaching, digital skills navigation, financial planning, and supportive services to program participants so they can map their career interests to labor market needs in their region and identify local training programs. Additionally, Bank of America's Pathways Program will also partner with select local Goodwill locations to hire individuals for employment at the company.
- Comcast Internet Essentials will provide digital skills and workforce development training for thousands of adults with low incomes. In addition, the program will install free WiFi access in Goodwill locations to enable people to get online to search for and apply for jobs as well as take digital skills training and certification programs to prepare for entry- and mid-level occupations.
- Lowe's will implement skilled trades career programs at Goodwill nonprofit organizations located in Atlanta, GA, Austin, TX; Baltimore, MD; Houston, TX; and Nashville, TN. Lowe's will work with the Goodwill organizations to develop training programs to meet their community employment needs. This one-year training initiative has the goal of skilling and supporting workers in the construction, logistics and transportation fields. The program will train more than 200 skilled trades workers by the end of the year. In addition, Goodwill will support the work of the Lowe's-led Generation T movement to raise awareness and interest in the skilled trades among youth and adults.
- USAA has provided philanthropic support to Goodwill to place 70 Black and Hispanic veterans and military spouses in sustainable careers by September 30, 2022. The grant awarded to Goodwill will also help youth and young adults enrolled in Goodwill's Operation: Achieve program to attend post-secondary STEM training to obtain professional credentials.
Building on work launched last spring:
- Anthem Foundation launched and is expanding a healthcare career path training that will continue to benefit thousands over the next year. The program builds healthcare employee pipelines while supporting healthcare workers affected by the pandemic, and the training leads to credentials, job placements, wage increases and benefits.
- Coursera, through its social impact program, has donated 2,000 scholarships to those hard-hit by the economic turndown, including people who are impacted by the criminal justice system, veterans and underserved high schoolers. Scholarship recipients have free access to more than 5,200 courses as well as hands-on projects and Professional Certificates that teach job-relevant skills across in-demand business, technology and data science fields.
- Google.org is continuing to support Goodwill in its efforts to deliver digital skills training across the U.S. through programs such as Google Career Certificates, which help job seekers prepare for in-demand jobs within three to six months without the need for a college degree or prior experience. Since 2017, more than 100 local Goodwill organizations have implemented the Goodwill Digital Career Accelerator® in their communities, equipping more than one million people with digital skills and placing more than 299,000 individuals to obtain employment or advance in their careers.
- Indeed is helping job seekers who are often overlooked or face challenges to finding work with skills-based assessments, job seeker support and employer hiring events. As part of Indeed's Environmental, Social and Governance commitments, they are also pledging with Goodwill to help 30 million people facing challenges secure employment by 2030. In 2022, Indeed announced the Essentials to Work program to connect job seekers with barriers to crucial services for employment including technology, transportation and record clearing through the help of partners like Goodwill.
- Lyft is continuing to invest in its LyftUp Jobs Access program, which launched in 2019 with a coalition of partners including Goodwill, to provide job seekers access to the transportation they need to get to interviews, job training and/or the first few weeks of work through cars, bikes and scooters. To date, the program has supported job seekers with access to more than 30,000 rides.
"Accenture and Goodwill share a longtime commitment to creating life-changing and more inclusive opportunities for people," said Jimmy Etheredge, Accenture's CEO of North America. "We're grateful to continue our collaboration and look forward to helping even more people acquire skills, gain access to good jobs and build sustainable careers — elevating themselves and their communities."
"Cross-sector partnerships are critical to prepare individuals with the necessary skills and resources required to advance their careers and create economic mobility," said Andrew Plepler, global head of Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) at Bank of America. "Alongside Goodwill and other partners, we're collaborating to create a more diverse and equal workforce."
"Stable, reliable internet access is a life-changing pathway for individuals to develop the skills needed to secure consistent and well-paying careers that will grant opportunity for economic mobility and sustainability," said Broderick Johnson, executive vice president, public policy and executive vice president, digital equity, at Comcast Corporation. "Everyone deserves the right to thrive economically, and access to internet connectivity and devices is absolutely critical in bridging the digital and skills gap."
"As a large employer focused on economic recovery, we know that the increasing use of technology and automation across industries like manufacturing and construction will spark both great advances and a widening skills gap within the labor force. Bridging this gap is key to our ongoing partnership with Goodwill," said Marvin Ellison, chairman and CEO of Lowe's. "Our collaboration with Rising Together™ will address this gap by providing more skills-building opportunities for workers, which will empower and equip them to make meaningful contributions to their companies and communities for years to come."
"Veterans bring deep expertise and discipline to the corporate world, yet many struggle to find a job after they leave the military – a challenge that has been compounded through the pandemic," said Wayne Peacock, CEO of USAA. "Through the Rising Together™ initiative, we will be able to support and empower Goodwill organizations through the Opportunity Accelerator program to provide more veterans and military spouses access to meaningful career training programs and employment prospects."
Goodwill is embedded in every community across North America and provides both in-person and virtual career resources, including job training, mentoring, certifications and credentials, career fairs, classes and job placement, as well as access to other assistance, such as child care and transportation. The Goodwill brand has a 120-year history whose services are utilized every day and especially in times of economic crises, recessions and moments of social distress.
To learn more about Rising Together™ partners and commitments enabling an equitable economic recovery and to hear from executives of the initiative, visit Goodwill.org/Rising-Together.
Goodwill Industries International is a network of 155 community-based, autonomous organizations in the United States and Canada with a presence in 12 other countries. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit that helps people find employment, Goodwill is recognized with GuideStar's highest rating, the Platinum Seal of Approval.
Local Goodwill organizations offer employment opportunities, job placement and training services, and other community-based programs, funded in part by selling donated clothing and household items in nearly 3,300 stores and at ShopGoodwill.com®.
For more information or to find a Goodwill location near you, visit goodwill.org. Follow us on Twitter: @GoodwillIntl and @GoodwillCapHill, and find us on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube: GoodwillIntl. Register for our Legislative Action Center via advocate.goodwill.org.
1 USDOL, Black Women's Economic Recovery Continues to Lag Women are still losing the economic recovery, February 9, 2022
2 Urban Institute, "Overlooked and Underconnected: Exploring Disparities in Digital Skill Levels by Race among Older Youth in the US," January 2021
3 Center for American Progress, COVID-19 Likely Resulted in 1.2 Million More Disabled People by the End of 2021—Workplaces and Policy Will Need to Adapt", February 9, 2022
4 SHRM, Inflation Rate Hits 7% Year-over-Year, Driving 'Real' Wages Down January 13, 2022
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SOURCE Goodwill Industries International | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/goodwill-rising-together-initiative-announces-new-partnerships-with-accenture-bank-america-comcast-internet-essentials-lowes-usaa-increase-access-careers-more-than-one-million-people-by-2025/ | 2022-05-11T16:17:25Z |
TULSA, Okla., May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- GPA Midstream Association and GPSA Midstream Suppliers are opening up a larger conversation to address questions and misconceptions around energy production and delivery by launching the associations' first digital advocacy and public education campaign. The associations and their members are engaging in an open dialogue as they navigate the evolving future of energy and create solutions that build a thriving future for everyone.
GPA Midstream and GPSA have launched the new Let's Clear the Air campaign to help support the energy transition as nearly 60,000 midstream professionals work tirelessly to provide reliable energy, counteract climate change and strengthen our country's economy.
"This is a chance to bring everyone together. We want to hear from people across industries, innovation hubs, interest groups and political lines," said Joel Moxley, President and CEO of GPA Midstream and GPSA. "We all have a voice and a story to tell. This campaign is our way of opening up a conversation and addressing your questions and concerns about the future of energy."
The campaign website takes the reader on a journey through the reasons behind opening up this conversation with videos and interactive data visuals, and addresses head-on some of the questions that are asked about this industry every day. You have an opportunity to submit your own questions, send stories of what you or your company do to "clear the air," sign the pledge and even nominate heroes of the cause.
"The natural gas industry has much to offer when it comes to meeting our country's shared climate goals and driving a clean energy future," said Alan Armstrong, president and CEO of Williams, a GPA Midstream member. "Public awareness efforts like 'Let's Clear the Air' foster an environment for constructive dialogue and general education that is critical to our collective success."
GPA Midstream and GPSA members are essential to powering the American economy and fueling a remarkable quality of life by providing energy security, economic benefits and cleaner energy solutions every day.
"Amidst a global energy transition, the natural gas industry continues to play a critical role in dually addressing increasing energy demands and clean energy goals, both here in the United States and abroad," said Wouter van Kempen, chairman, president, and CEO of DCP Midstream, a GPA Midstream member. "Important dialogue and education focused efforts like GPA Midstream's 'Let's Clear the Air' campaign are critical steps to better understanding and addressing community, customer, producer, and consumer expectations while also helping ensure the decisions we collectively make today are the right decisions for a thriving and vibrant future."
To learn more and to join the conversation, visit letscleartheairnow.org.
GPA Midstream Association has served the U.S. energy industry since 1921 and represents corporate members engaged in a wide variety of services that move vital energy products such as natural gas, natural gas liquids, refined products, and crude oil from production areas to markets across the United States. The association's mission is to responsibly serve and represent the midstream energy industry with collaborative expertise, safety and advocacy through its member companies and staff, focused on sustainability, to the benefit of all. For more information, visit GPAMidstream.org.
GPSA is GPA Midstream's affiliated association representing companies engaged in meeting the service and supply needs of the midstream industry. An elected board of directors establishes policies and directs GPSA activities. The association shares a small staff within GPA Midstream's office in Tulsa, Okla. For more information, visit GPSAmidstreamsuppliers.org.
Media Contact
Crystal Myers, VP, Marketing & Events
Phone: (918) 493-2089
Email: cmyers@gpamidstream.org
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SOURCE GPA Midstream Association | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/gpa-midstream-is-clearing-air-with-new-campaign/ | 2022-05-11T16:17:32Z |
PENSACOLA, Fla., May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Veteran HR consultant Terry Enlow has joined hrQ as Vice President and Managing Director for the firm's Pacific Northwest expansion.
Enlow has more than three decades of experience in leadership roles. A regional manager at Helzberg Diamonds for 15 years, he also held management positions at Zales, Randstad and Wells Fargo before spending nearly nine years with global organizational consulting firm Korn Ferry. He comes to hrQ from an HR firm where he served as the area director for Northern California and the Pacific Northwest.
As VP and Managing Director at hrQ, Enlow will establish and grow the hrQ brand in the Pacific Northwest by deeply integrating into the market's HR and broader business community and developing a reputation as the human capital and talent thought leader.
"I have followed hrQ for a while and have a great deal of respect for their range of solutions, thought leadership and level of client satisfaction," Enlow said. "I am dedicated to helping organizations execute their business strategy through the activation of their talent. One of my passions is making the future of work, work for everyone."
The Pacific Northwest will be the 10th U.S. market for hrQ, which offers consulting, executive search and interim recruiting services nationwide.
Enlow holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in organizational development from Concordia University in St. Paul, Minn.
More About hrQ
hrQ, a LandrumHR company, works with organizations to simplify their people equation. Focused on strategic human capital consulting, interim resourcing and search, hrQ helps clients deliver their people strategy. With a presence throughout the U.S., hrQ has been recognized eight times since 2007 as a Fastest Growing Privately Held Company by Inc. 5000. Visit www.hrqinc.com for more information.
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SOURCE hrQ | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/hrq-taps-terry-enlow-lead-pacific-northwest-market/ | 2022-05-11T16:17:38Z |
PALO ALTO, Calif., May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- I Peace, Inc. (CEO: Koji Tanabe), a Palo Alto-based biotech start-up in the field of GMP cell manufacturing CDMO, announced that the company, in collaboration with Genequest Inc., a Tokyo-based direct-to-consumer genetic testing service provider, established a data-driven method to identify potential cell donors with specific haplotypes. With this high-throughput method, the company has already succeeded in identifying 1,547 HLA-homozygous potential donors and has already generated iPSCs. By combining Genequest's inventory of genomic information of tens of thousands of customers, and I Peace's mass production capability of GMP grade iPSCs (induced pluripotent stem cells) and iPSC-induced cells, it is now possible to identify potential donors with specific HLA (human leukocyte antigen) haplotype and manufacture multiple lines of iPSCs. Unlike conventional methods of identifying specific potential donors that yield only a handful of matches at best, this process can help identify a large number of potential donors with high efficiency.
We sequenced 98 HLA loci by high-resolution, next-generation sequencing-based HLA haplotyping from seven people, and found that the algorithm accuracy was above 93%. While the process can be applied to the identification of various genotypes and therefore has widespread usability including sourcing donors with genetic predispositions for disease modeling, HLA homozygosity was used to verify the reliability of the process because sourcing HLA homozygous donors is an ongoing challenge to meet demands of the rising allogeneic cell therapy industry. This process that combines the pool of genetic information and the mass manufacturing capability of iPSCs can be applied to identifying potential donors and manufacturing iPSCs with various types of genetic characteristics and support organ transplant and drug discoveries.
About I Peace, Inc
Founded in 2015 in Palo Alto, California, USA, I Peace, Inc. is a leading CDMO (contract development and manufacturing organization) of clinical-grade cell products. The founder and CEO Dr. Koji Tanabe earned his doctorate at Kyoto University under Nobel laureate Dr. Shinya Yamanaka and was the second author of the groundbreaking article on the development of human iPSCs. I Peace's mission is to ease the suffering of diseased patients and help healthy people maintain a high quality of life. With its proprietary manufacturing platform that enables parallel production of discrete iPSCs from multiple donors in a single room, I Peace can provide a large volume of high-quality clinical-grade iPSCs at a competitive cost. Our goal is to create custom iPSCs for every individual to become their stem cells for life while supporting drug and cell therapy companies to accelerate their development to make cell therapy an affordable option.
Founder, CEO: Koji Tanabe
Since: 2015
Headquarters: Palo Alto, California
Japan subsidiary: I Peace, Ltd. (Kyoto, Japan)
Cell Manufacturing Facility: Kyoto, Japan
Web: https://www.ipeace.com
About Genequest Inc.
In 2014, Genequest launched the first large-scale genetic testing service for consumers in Japan. We provide a service that allows you to check genetic variations associated with disease susceptibilities and traits by examining personal genomes covering about 300 items such as the risk of diseases such as lifestyle-related diseases and the characteristics of your trait. With the vision of promoting genetic research, spreading correct usage, and enriching people's lives, we are actively conducting research activities that utilize accumulated genomic data.
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SOURCE I Peace, Inc. | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/i-peace-accelerates-allogeneic-ipsc-derived-cell-therapies-with-g-high-throughput-method-identify-large-number-donors-with-specific-hla-haplotypes/ | 2022-05-11T16:17:44Z |
Mensun Bound joins Cunard's Insights speaker program after discovering Shackleton's iconic ship, the Endurance, in March 2022
VALENCIA, Calif., May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Maritime archaeologist, Mensun Bound, who made headlines across the world in March with the discovery of Sir Ernest Shackleton's ship, the Endurance, will head out to sea again this summer to talk exclusively to Cunard guests.
Bound will join Queen Mary 2 in Southampton for a 7-night Transatlantic Crossing on June 24, 2022, before arriving in New York on July 2. Returning in 2023, the maritime archaeologist will join Queen Elizabeth for a 13-night voyage from Alaska to San Francisco, taking in some of the world's most breath-taking scenery and wildlife.
"It is a huge honor to welcome Mensun Bound on board our flagship Queen Mary 2 so soon after his historical expedition captured the world's attention," said Matt Gleaves, Vice President, Commercial, Cunard, North America and Australasia. "I know our guests will be enthralled by his first-hand account of his Endurance 22 expedition, as well as his extraordinary, decades-spanning career."
In his role as Trustee of the Falklands Maritime Heritage Trust, the maritime archaeologist from Oxford was the Director of Exploration for the team of crack deep-ocean robotic technologists that, on March 5, 2022, discovered the most storied shipwreck of them all, three kilometers beneath the perennial sea ice of Antarctica.
Crushed by pack ice, the ship sank in 1915 at the heart of what Shackleton himself called 'the worst portion of the worst sea on earth.' In an exclusive talk and Q&A on board Queen Mary 2 in June, Bound will talk publicly for the first time since returning from his historical expedition. Discussing his remarkable career, Bound will reveal how they penetrated the pack to find 'the world's most unreachable wreck,' the iconic Endurance, upright and in a superb state of preservation on the mysterious abyssal plain of the Weddell Sea.
Bound, said: "It's been the most extraordinary few months with my feet yet to touch the ground since the Endurance 22 Expedition concluded. To find a vessel of such historical significance is something that is hard to truly capture in a few words. However, I am very much looking forward to joining Queen Mary 2 and sharing my excitement and experiences for the first time with Cunard's guests."
Born in the Falkland Islands, Mensun Bound was the Triton Fellow in Maritime Archaeology at St. Peter's College, Oxford, and the director of the first academic unit for underwater archaeology in England. Known as the 'Indiana Jones of the Deep,' Bound has conducted wreck surveys and excavations all over the world in a career that has spanned 40 years.
For more information about Cunard, or to book a voyage, contact your Travel Consultant, call Cunard Line at 1-800-728-6273 or visit www.cunard.com.
For Travel Advisors interested in further information, please contact your Business Development Manager, visit OneSourceCruises.com or call Cunard at 1-800-528-6273.
Cunard is a luxury British cruise line, renowned for creating unforgettable experiences around the world. Cunard has been a leading operator of passenger ships on the North Atlantic, since 1840, celebrating an incredible 182 years of operation. A pioneer in transatlantic journeys for generations, Cunard is world class. The Cunard experience is built on fine dining, hand-selected entertainment and outstanding service. From five-star restaurants and in-suite dining to inspiring guest speakers, the library and film screenings, every detail has been meticulously crafted to make the experience unforgettable. Destinations include Europe, the Caribbean, the Far East and Australia.
There are currently three Cunard ships, Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria and a fourth ship, Queen Anne, will be entering service in early 2024. This investment is part of the company's ambitious plans for the future of Cunard globally and will be the first time since 1999 that Cunard will have four ships in simultaneous service.
Cunard is based at Carnival House in Southampton and has been owned since 1998 by Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE:CUK).
Social Media
Facebook: www.facebook.com/cunard
Twitter: www.twitter.com/cunardline
YouTube: www.youtube.com/wearecunard
Instagram: www.instagram.com/cunardline
For additional information about Cunard, contact:
Jackie Chase, Cunard, 310-926-7686, jchase@cunard.com
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SOURCE Cunard | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/indiana-jones-deep-bound-exclusive-speaker-appearance-with-cunard/ | 2022-05-11T16:17:50Z |
WARWICK, R.I., May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- InsureMyTrip, a NOAA Weather-Ready Nation WRN Ambassador™, launched a new hurricane preparedness campaign this week to help travelers best prepare for the season. As a dedicated NOAA partner, InsureMyTrip is committed to improving travelers' readiness and responsiveness against extreme weather. To help travelers stay informed and be better prepared, this educational campaign includes several initiatives with content delivery across all platforms.
InsureMyTrip has expanded its 2022 Hurricane Educational Center to include more information to better assist travelers with their upcoming trip. The content hub also offers access to travel data, a free travel guide ebook, videos, and other resources.
Buy Early
InsureMyTrip reminds travelers about the advantages of buying trip insurance early. Once a storm starts forming, it is considered a foreseeable event and insurance coverage will no longer be available to cover losses related to that storm.
How Hurricane Coverage Works
Travel insurance is an effective and cost-efficient way to cope with the risk of travel during hurricane season and to help guard against potential financial losses.
When it comes to severe weather, here are some examples of how insurance may enable travelers to receive reimbursement of pre-paid, non-refundable trip costs if they must cancel a trip due to severe weather-related issues that are covered under the trip cancellation benefit:
Flights are grounded due to a hurricane: Many plans may cover a traveler when common carriers such as airlines and cruise lines cease service due to weather. The cessation of services must be for a certain number of hours, usually 24-48.
Resort is in the path of a hurricane: A few plans may cover when the traveler's destination is under a NOAA-issued hurricane warning.*
A hurricane damaged my hotel or resort: Many plans may cover a traveler when a hotel, resort, or vacation rental is devastated and made uninhabitable by a storm.
A hurricane damaged my home: Many plans may offer coverage when the primary home of a traveler sustains destructive storm damage that renders the home uninhabitable.
I changed my mind: For the opportunity to cancel a trip for reasons other than those listed as "covered reasons" on a policy, a traveler may consider Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) protection.
CFAR is an optional time-sensitive benefit available on some plans that allow a traveler to cancel a trip for any reason, up to 48 hours prior to the scheduled departure. Reimbursement is usually 50-75% of the prepaid, non-refundable trip cost. A traveler must meet specific eligibility requirements and must purchase a policy with CFAR selected within 14-21 days of making an initial trip payment or deposit.
Hurricanes and Airline Cancellation Policies
Flight cancellation policies vary by airline and circumstance. When an airline cancels a flight due to bad weather, most will try to rebook passengers on the next available flight.
Airlines are not required to reimburse travelers for losses incurred as a result of a canceled flight due to weather. Travelers concerned about protecting pre-paid, non-refundable trip expenses should buy travel insurance.
Travelers interested in learning more about insurance plans for travel during hurricane season can visit www.InsureMyTrip.com or call 1-800-551-4635 to speak with a licensed travel insurance agent.
Hurricane Travel Insurance Expert:
Meghan Walch
401-773-9210
press@insuremytrip.com
*With most comprehensive travel insurance plans, the NOAA-issued hurricane warning must be issued for the traveler's destination within 24-48 hours of the traveler's scheduled departure. The cancellation must also be more than 14 days after the traveler's effective date for trip cancellation coverage. This means this coverage would not be available if the traveler is trying to purchase coverage 15 days or closer to the departure of a trip.
About InsureMyTrip
It's simple. InsureMyTrip finds you the right travel insurance plan, every time. InsureMyTrip is the authority on travel insurance. We are committed to empowering travelers to make the best possible insurance decisions by leveraging our technology, data intelligence, and expertise. InsureMyTrip is rated A+ by the Better Business Bureau.
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SOURCE InsureMyTrip | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/insuremytrip-launches-2022-hurricane-awareness-campaign/ | 2022-05-11T16:17:57Z |
Invisors named among best workplaces in Medium Large Category for a 2nd year
ATLANTA, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Invisors, a Workday Services Partner, has been named to Inc. magazine's annual Best Workplaces list. Featured in the May/June 2022 issue, hitting newsstands on May 17, 2022, and prominently featured on Inc.com, the list is the result of a comprehensive measurement of American companies that have excelled in creating exceptional workplaces and company culture, whether operating in a physical or virtual facility.
After collecting data from thousands of submissions, Inc. selected 475 honorees this year. Each company that was nominated took part in an employee survey, conducted by Quantum Workplace, which included topics such as management effectiveness, perks, fostering employee growth, and overall company culture. The organization's benefits were also audited to determine overall score and ranking.
"It is always exciting to win an award or make a list, but it is especially gratifying when the main deciding factor in that award is a happy team," says Travis Brody, Partner at Invisors. "We have had tremendous growth over the past year, and recognitions like this confirm that while we focus on growth, we still stay true to our core values as an organization."
"Not long ago, the term 'best workplace' would have conjured up images of open-office designs with stocked snack fridges," says Inc. editor-in-chief Scott Omelianuk. "Yet given the widespread adoption of remote work, the concept of the workplace has shifted. This year, Inc. has recognized the organizations dedicated to redefining and enriching the workplace in the face of the pandemic."
Over the past year Invisors has been recognized by it's team via direct survey feedback as a Fortune Great Place to Work™, one of the Best Workplaces for Parents™, one of the Best Workplaces for Millennials™, and as one of the Best Small & Medium Workplaces™.
About Invisors
As a certified Workday Services Partner, Invisors helps customers utilize their organizational data to make better-informed business decisions through the deployment of Workday. We believe the most important measure of our team's success is our client's ability to achieve their big-picture vision. From initial deployments to ongoing projects, we are focused on elevating perspectives + transforming results. Learn more by visiting invisors.com.
About Inc. Media
The world's most trusted business-media brand, Inc. offers entrepreneurs the knowledge, tools, connections, and community to build great companies. Its award-winning multiplatform content reaches more than 50 million people each month across a variety of channels including websites, newsletters, social media, podcasts, and print. Its prestigious Inc. 5000 list, produced every year since 1982, analyzes company data to recognize the fastest-growing privately held businesses in the United States. The global recognition that comes with inclusion in the 5000 gives the founders of the best businesses an opportunity to engage with an exclusive community of their peers, and the credibility that helps them drive sales and recruit talent. The associated Inc. 5000 Conference is part of a highly acclaimed portfolio of bespoke events produced by Inc. For more information, visit www.inc.com.
About Quantum Workplace
Quantum Workplace, based in Omaha, Nebraska, is an HR technology company that serves organizations through employee-engagement surveys, action-planning tools, exit surveys, peer-to-peer recognition, performance evaluations, goal tracking, and leadership assessment. For more information, visit QuantumWorkplace.com.
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SOURCE Invisors | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/invisors-ranks-among-highest-scoring-businesses-inc-magazines-annual-list-best-workplaces-2022/ | 2022-05-11T16:18:03Z |
NEW YORK, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Mutual of America Financial Group recognized HomeAid® America's HomeAid® WORKS program as an Honorable Mention recipient of its 2021 Community Partnership Award during a special event on May 10 at Mutual of America's headquarters in New York City.
HomeAid America received $50,000, as one of five nonprofit organizations selected for their outstanding contributions to society, in partnership with public, private and other social sector organizations.
A leading nonprofit developer of housing and programmatic facilities, HomeAid America's mission is to help people experiencing or at risk of homelessness build new lives through construction, community engagement and education. Launched in 2019, HomeAid WORKS is a workforce development program designed to address the need for more housing solutions and better-trained construction workers by linking job training and education with a pathway to secure, high-paying jobs in construction.
"HomeAid WORKS offers a road map to a better future for some of our country's most vulnerable individuals," said Scott Larson, CEO of HomeAid America. "In addition to Colorado, Portland and Los Angeles, two more affiliates have joined us, replicating the program in Houston and San Diego. With potential expansion to Austin and other affiliates across the nation, HomeAid WORKS is inspiring individuals from all walks of life to break the cycle of homelessness in America."
John R. Greed, Chairman, President and CEO of Mutual of America Financial Group, said of the award winners, "The 2021 award-winning programs have created innovative solutions that address the challenging social, emotional and physical issues faced by many individuals and families in their local communities. Through collaboration and exemplary leadership, these programs are making a meaningful difference in the lives of those they serve, and we are honored to recognize them for their efforts."
About the Mutual of America Community Partnership Award
The Mutual of America Community Partnership Award annually honors the outstanding contributions that nonprofit organizations from across the U.S. make to society, in partnership with public, private and other social sector organizations. Since 1996, the Community Partnership Award has recognized 250 partnerships from cities and towns across America. To watch videos of the national award-winning programs, visit the Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award channel on YouTube.
About Mutual of America Financial Group
Mutual of America Financial Group is a leading provider of retirement services and investments to employers, employees and individuals. We provide high-quality, innovative products and services at a competitive price, along with outstanding personalized service, to help our customers build and preserve assets for a financially secure future. Our mission is built upon our values—integrity, prudence, reliability, excellence and social responsibility—which have guided us since 1945 and continue to serve us and our customers well. For more information, visit mutualofamerica.com, and connect with us via Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.
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SOURCE Mutual of America Financial Group | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/irvine-based-homeaid-works-program-recognized-2021-mutual-america-community-partnership-award-winner/ | 2022-05-11T16:18:09Z |
NEW YORK, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Mutual of America Financial Group recognized Legal Aid of Western Missouri's Adopt-A-Neighborhood Project as an Honorable Mention recipient of its 2021 Community Partnership Award during a special event on May 10 at Mutual of America's headquarters in New York City.
Legal Aid of Western Missouri received $50,000, as one of five nonprofit organizations selected for their outstanding contributions to society, in partnership with public, private and other social sector organizations.
Created in 2015, the Adopt-A-Neighborhood Project is a groundbreaking initiative helping to transform seven distressed neighborhoods in Kansas City into vibrant, thriving communities. The first program of its kind in the country, it provides access to pro bono legal services to individuals, neighborhood associations and other nonprofits through a collaboration with seven of the city's top private law firms.
"The goal of the Adopt-A-Neighborhood Project is to help stabilize housing, return vacant properties to productive use and improve the quality of life in low-income neighborhoods," said Kayla Hogan, the Adopt-A-Neighborhood Project Director. "It provides a clear example of how Legal Aid can partner with private law firms to provide a pathway for residential development, community revitalization and economic security for underserved communities and their residents."
John R. Greed, Chairman, President and CEO of Mutual of America Financial Group, said of the award winners, "The 2021 award-winning programs have created innovative solutions that address the challenging social, emotional and physical issues faced by many individuals and families in their local communities. Through collaboration and exemplary leadership, these programs are making a meaningful difference in the lives of those they serve, and we are honored to recognize them for their efforts."
About the Mutual of America Community Partnership Award
The Mutual of America Community Partnership Award annually honors the outstanding contributions that nonprofit organizations from across the U.S. make to society, in partnership with public, private and other social sector organizations. Since 1996, the Community Partnership Award has recognized 250 partnerships from cities and towns across America. To watch videos of the national award-winning programs, visit the Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award channel on YouTube.
About Mutual of America Financial Group
Mutual of America Financial Group is a leading provider of retirement services and investments to employers, employees and individuals. We provide high-quality, innovative products and services at a competitive price, along with outstanding personalized service, to help our customers build and preserve assets for a financially secure future. Our mission is built upon our values—integrity, prudence, reliability, excellence and social responsibility—which have guided us since 1945 and continue to serve us and our customers well. For more information, visit mutualofamerica.com, and connect with us via Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.
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SOURCE Mutual of America Financial Group | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/kansas-city-based-adopt-a-neighborhood-project-recognized-2021-mutual-america-community-partnership-award-winner/ | 2022-05-11T16:18:15Z |
Kinecta Transforms the Corner of Sepulveda and Manhattan Beach Boulevards
MANHATTAN BEACH, Calif., May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Kinecta Federal Credit Union, a leading financial services provider in the South Bay, announces the opening of its state-of-the-art flagship branch in Manhattan Beach, located at 1120 North Sepulveda Blvd. With this opening, Kinecta strengthens its commitment to the advancement and service of the South Bay community, which has been its home for over 80 years.
At the new Kinecta location, a dedicated team of financial specialists led by Marco Franco, Senior Retail Services Manager, will provide tailored guidance to support members' financial needs, returning more value to the community with better rates on deposits and loans as well as having mortgage, wealth management and insurance specialists on staff. The branch features sustainable and energy efficient materials as well as advanced banking technology. In addition, it will be Kinecta's first branch to provide private banking services, a specialty overseen by Laura Tompkins, Private Banking Manager.
"This development is the end of 15-years' of vacancy and underutilization of this site, and what frankly had become an eyesore for the community. We've always been a local institution and deeply committed to investing where our members and employees live and work," said Keith Sultemeier, President and Chief Executive Officer of Kinecta. "We are grateful for the opportunity to serve the South Bay and Manhattan Beach at this new location. We wanted to create something the community can use and enjoy for many years to come and together with our partners and the City of Manhattan Beach, we believe that goal has been achieved."
In addition to the newest Kinecta branch, the 35,000-square-foot lot will house three additional retailers, including Ike's Love and Sandwiches, Dunkin' and a veterinary clinic. Kinecta offers its members 10 other branches in the South Bay as well as access to an additional 5,800 shared credit union branches and a network of over 85,000 fee-free ATMs located across the nation.
Kinecta's ongoing commitment to the Manhattan Beach community includes its partnership with numerous local charitable organizations, such as the Skechers Foundation, Manhattan Beach Education Foundation and Manhattan Beach Unified School District. In addition, during 2021, Kinecta, its subsidiaries, and employees donated over $880,000 to charitable causes, volunteered over 5,100 hours, and participated in over 225 community events throughout Southern California and beyond.
About Kinecta Federal Credit Union
Kinecta Federal Credit Union is the country's 35th largest credit union, with assets of $6.6 billion and over 270,000 member-owners. Its 800+ employees serve members from 32 credit union-owned branches, a variety of specialty offices, and highly responsive call centers on both coasts. Banking the Southern California area for more than 80 years, with recent expansion into New York, New Jersey, and Northern California, Kinecta offers its members a full range of financial products through the Credit Union and its subsidiaries, Kinecta Wealth Management and Kinecta Insurance Services. Kinecta has been recognized by the Mortgage Bankers Association as a recipient of its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Residential Leadership Award, and received the Best of Show award granted by the Credit Union National Association (CUNA) Technology Council. Daily Breeze readers have named Kinecta a top credit union for the past 11 years in the South Bay area of Los Angeles. Kinecta supports its communities in a variety of ways, by giving back through the Kinecta Community Foundation as well as serving as the official financial services partner of the LA Galaxy, and sponsor of the Rochester Americans and Rochester Red Wings. To learn more about Kinecta, visit kinecta.org.
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SOURCE Kinecta Federal Credit Union | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/kinecta-federal-credit-union-opens-state-of-the-art-branch-manhattan-beach/ | 2022-05-11T16:18:22Z |
Insurtech company achieves a key milestone through a SOC 2 Type II 'good standing' attestation
CHICAGO, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading Chicago-based insurance technology company Magnifact® announced today the successful completion of its System and Organization Controls (SOC) 2 Type II audit for its patented cloud-based AgentVizion platform.
This achievement reflects the company's commitment to the highest levels of data security and process compliance for its clients by adhering to key trust services criteria as defined by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA): Security, Availability, Confidentiality and Privacy.
"This attestation from AICPA underscores Magnifact's commitment to our customers and partners on our data protection policies driven by stringent operational controls," said Magnifact founder and CEO Krish V. Krishnan.
"We handle sensitive client information as we service our insurance industry clients, and it is therefore essential to assure them that the controls we have deployed to protect and secure their data are operating at the highest standards of compliance," Krishnan added. "At Magnifact, we continue to invest in streamlining our platform's information security architecture and strengthening our organizational oversight around information security."
The third-party audit, performed by a leading independent organization, confirmed Magnifact's compliance related to its information security best practices, policies, procedures and operations. The final audit report concluded that Magnifact has successfully met the rigorous SOC 2 standards set by AICPA.
About Magnifact® and AgentVizion™
Magnifact is a leading provider of SaaS-based DataIntelligent℠ solutions for the insurance industry.
For more details, visit https://www.magnifact.com
AgentVizion is an award-winning, patented platform that allows insurance carriers, agencies and downline agents to accurately get a 360-degree view of their business across different distribution channels and product lines.
For more details, visit https://www.magnifact.com/agentvizion.html
Contact: press@magnifact.com
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SOURCE Magnifact | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/magnifact-successfully-completes-soc-2-type-ii-audit-information-security/ | 2022-05-11T16:18:29Z |
"More Than Just a Cup" purchases to be donated directly to RMHC Chapters across the U.S.
BURLINGTON, Mass. and FRISCO, Texas, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Keurig Dr Pepper Inc. (NASDAQ: KDP) announced that its McCafé At Home coffee brand has partnered with Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) for a multi-year program to support families with hospitalized children. To launch the partnership and provide immediate support to RMHC programs, McCafé At Home is releasing a limited-edition "More Than Just a Cup" mug, with 100% of the purchase going to RMHC. In addition, the brand is excited to announce they have partnered with Grammy award-winning singer and songwriter Meghan Trainor to amplify the campaign with her wide-reaching fan base.
"When I learned about McCafé At Home's partnership with Ronald McDonald House Charities, I knew right away that I wanted to be part of it and help in any way that I can," said Meghan Trainor. "As a new mom, I'm incredibly passionate about supporting other families, especially those with hospitalized children when they need it most."
Designed by children who have stayed at Ronald McDonald House programs across the U.S., the mugs will be available for purchase exclusively on Keurig.com for $1,800*, with 100% of the purchase being donated to RMHC. There is a very symbolic and wonderful reason behind the price of this mug. The average length of stay for a family at a Ronald McDonald House is 18 days, with the average cost per night being $100. Therefore, each mug sold helps support the stay of one family in their time of need.
"McCafé At Home is proud to support Ronald McDonald House Charities with the launch of the 'More Than Just A Cup' platform," said Philip Drapeau, Senior Vice President for Keurig Dr Pepper. "With this campaign, as well as many future initiatives, we'll be able to provide support to RMHC and their powerful mission of keeping families and their children together."
Additionally, McCafé At Home will donate over $400,000 to the charity in year one and will supply every RMHC Chapter in the U.S. with Keurig® Brewers and McCafé At Home K-cup® pods.
"All of us at Ronald McDonald House Charities are proud to support millions of families throughout their child's medical journey," said Kelly Dolan, RMHC Global President and CEO. "We're so grateful to be working so closely with the McCafé At Home team and appreciate their generosity in this partnership."
The McCafé At Home "More Than Just a Cup" mug was created to increase awareness for the work of RMHC, raise more support for the families who rely on the organization and encourage others to get involved. As an added incentive for at-home coffee drinkers - and to bring even more comfort to RMHC families - each purchase will include a digital coupon code that will restock McCafé At Home coffee free for one year. The brand will also match one year's supply to Ronald McDonald House programs. The mug is now available for purchase for one month only.
Additionally, running now and through the beginning of June, all McCafé K-Cup® pods on Keurig.com will have a portion of proceeds donated to RMHC, so everyone can get involved!
** $0.10 per box, up to $10,000.
About McCafé At Home
Brighten your day with McCafé®, a simply delicious coffee that keeps the good going. Made with responsibly sourced 100% Arabica beans. Available nationally in pods, bags and cans.
About Ronald McDonald House Charities
When families have a sick child, Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) ensures they have access to the care and support they need along their medical journey. There are over 260 RMHC Chapters in 62 countries and regions around the world.
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SOURCE McCafé At Home | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/mccaf-home-announces-multi-year-partnership-with-ronald-mcdonald-house-charities-rmhc/ | 2022-05-11T16:18:35Z |
NEW YORK, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Mutual of America Financial Group recognized Pillsbury United Communities' North Market as an Honorable Mention recipient of its 2021 Community Partnership Award during a special event on May 10 at Mutual of America's headquarters in New York City.
Pillsbury United Communities received $50,000, as one of five nonprofit organizations selected for their outstanding contributions to society, in partnership with public, private and other social sector organizations.
In 2017, Pillsbury United Communities partnered with North Memorial Health to create North Market. This nonprofit grocery and wellness center is specifically designed to address the persistent food insecurity and health issues in the underserved community of North Minneapolis. What began as a community-centered conversation about food access in an area with just one supermarket to serve 67,000 residents, became a larger plan to help its residents understand and address significant, food-related health issues, such as obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure, that plague their community. Today, North Market serves as a community-based destination for health screening, culturally relevant health education and healthy food options.
"North Market continues to nourish and heal the residents of North Minneapolis," said Adair Mosley, President and CEO of Pillsbury United Communities. "Pillsbury United's five outdoor urban farms and one solar-powered hydroponic farm, plus other North Minneapolis community farmers, help to ensure year-round access to healthy produce."
John R. Greed, Chairman, President and CEO of Mutual of America Financial Group, said of the award winners, "The 2021 award-winning programs have created innovative solutions that address the challenging social, emotional and physical issues faced by many individuals and families in their local communities. Through collaboration and exemplary leadership, these programs are making a meaningful difference in the lives of those they serve, and we are honored to recognize them for their efforts."
About the Mutual of America Community Partnership Award
The Mutual of America Community Partnership Award annually honors the outstanding contributions that nonprofit organizations from across the U.S. make to society, in partnership with public, private and other social sector organizations. Since 1996, the Community Partnership Award has recognized 250 partnerships from cities and towns across America. To watch videos of the national award-winning programs, visit the Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award channel on YouTube.
About Mutual of America Financial Group
Mutual of America Financial Group is a leading provider of retirement services and investments to employers, employees and individuals. We provide high-quality, innovative products and services at a competitive price, along with outstanding personalized service, to help our customers build and preserve assets for a financially secure future. Our mission is built upon our values—integrity, prudence, reliability, excellence and social responsibility—which have guided us since 1945 and continue to serve us and our customers well. For more information, visit mutualofamerica.com, and connect with us via Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.
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SOURCE Mutual of America Financial Group | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/minneapolis-based-north-market-recognized-2021-mutual-america-community-partnership-award-winner/ | 2022-05-11T16:18:44Z |
WASHINGTON, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- As higher education institutions respond to student demands regarding campus police presence and reach, it becomes critically important to ensure institutionwide awareness about policies, practices, and reform efforts. NASPA–Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education–engaged in a research project to better understand the scope of authority and responsibilities of campus police, the level of online transparency of campus police policies and procedures, and the impact of state and federal legislation on campus law enforcement efforts from March 2020 through September 2021. The resulting report, "Efforts to Increase Transparency and Accountability of Campus Police," is now available.
"Given how much of the focus of the protests following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020 centered on police reform, we felt it was important to examine the extent to which campuses were proactively addressing these concerns and implementing reforms rather than waiting for legislative action," said Jill Dunlap, co-author of the report and senior director for research, policy, and civic engagement at NASPA.
To better understand campus policing policies and reforms, the report's authors conducted a three-part analysis involving: a theme analysis of relevant federal- and state-level legislation; a survey of vice presidents for student affairs with campus safety listed as a functional area; and a content analysis of campus safety websites for 200 institutions.
The survey of senior student affairs administrators (n=50) who oversee campus law enforcement indicated that institutions employ various types of campus safety officers and that the differences among them are not always transparent on public websites or communicated clearly to faculty, staff, or students. The survey also found that campus law enforcement officers have a large range of duties, beyond just emergency response.
The full report includes the findings from the survey and content analysis, outlines the potential impact of state- and federal-level policy reforms on campus law enforcement agencies, and highlights opportunities for improving transparency and communications about campus police reform efforts.
To access the full report, visit https://naspa.org/report/efforts-to-increase-transparency-and-accountability-of-campus-police.
NASPA is the leading association for the advancement, health, and sustainability of the student affairs profession. Our work provides high-quality professional development, advocacy, and research for 12,000 members in all 50 states, 25 countries, and 8 U.S. territories.
Contact - Jill Dunlap, jdunlap@naspa.org
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SOURCE NASPA | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/naspa-releases-research-report-increasing-transparency-accountability-campus-police/ | 2022-05-11T16:18:51Z |
Analysis of hundreds of millions of card transactions reveals fuel purchase as predictive of a fourfold increase in spend across major retail categories
DETROIT and NEW YORK , May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Affinity Solutions, a leading consumer insights company, and GSTV, the national video network engaging and entertaining targeted audiences at scale across tens of thousands of fuel retailers, unveil a new analysis that shows a predictive relationship between a fuel transaction and increased retail spending. Key findings include that, in the three hours after fueling, consumers spend 3.7 times more money, transact 4.2 times more frequently, and are over four times more likely to make at least one additional purchase compared to those not fueling that day.
"GSTV came to us with a hypothesis: since consumers often stop for fuel as part of a larger shopping trip, a fuel transaction might be a good predictor of immediate future spending," said Phil Lore, EVP & Chief Revenue Officer at Affinity Solutions. "Our analysis, spanning hundreds of millions of credit and debit card transactions, across 20 million accounts, bears this out. As marketers look for data-driven opportunities to increase media performance, these findings identify a uniquely pivotal moment along the shopper journey to strongly influence consumer decision-making."
Of particular interest to marketers, Affinity Solutions quantified the lift in spend propensity for more than a hundred of the country's top retailers and restaurants, offering advertisers unique insights to help them develop strategies to drive more in-store sales. The analysis quantified the increase in spend at specific key retailers following a fuel transaction including Walmart (+5.0x), Kroger (+4.9x), Target (+4.0x), Walgreens (+3.8x), Taco Bell (5.8x), Home Depot (5.2x), and Chick-fil-A (6.6x), among others. The study also found that a fuel transaction predicts substantially higher levels of spend across major categories, including quick service restaurants (+5.3x), home supply (+5.2x), grocery (+4.8x), big box (+4.0x), casual dining (+4.0x), and pharmacy (+3.6x). Spend behavior was analyzed in the three hours immediately following a fuel transaction from 4/1-7/31/21 and compared to active accounts without an observed fuel transaction that day.
"Advertisers have long understood the importance of reaching viewers at precisely the right moment. This research sheds new light on just how important certain moments can be," said Eric Sherman, EVP, Insights and Analytics, GSTV. "Affinity Solutions has uncovered a "fueling multiplier" -- an amplification of an ad's potential impact based on its temporal and geospatial proximity to elevated consumer spending, creating a unique messaging opportunity for marketers."
The analysis period for the study came more than a year after the start of the Covid-19 pandemic during a lull in cases when there was widespread vaccine availability and prior to the uptick of cases from the Delta variant. In addition to comparing post-fueling behavior to those not fueling that day, the research also looked at changes to post-fueling spend behavior over time, specifically comparing April through July of 2019 against the same period in 2021. The study saw post-fuel consumer spending rise almost 50% in the three hours following a fuel transaction.
The release of this new data and insights comes on the heels of GSTV's recent announcement of GSTV AMPLIFY, a retail media network that offers CPG marketers the ability to complement and strengthen existing omnichannel brand plans and strategies. With multipliers of spend likelihood defined across categories and key retailers, the new data from Affinity Solutions further demonstrates the value of the unique moment on the consumer journey that GSTV offers to marketers. To learn more about how GSTV reaches consumers in proximity to key retail channels, visit GSTV.com/amplify.
About Affinity Solutions
Affinity is the authoritative source of truth for news outlets, not-for-profits, research firms and businesses in the US and the only source for purchase insights that can be analyzed by demographic, geographic, lifestyle segment and political affiliation. We power consumer engagement predicated on actual purchase data to help marketers move at the speed of the consumer and improve people's lives. Affinity is powered by Panorama, which is an always-on, privacy-safe platform, within a safe-haven environment. Panorama deterministically matches actual purchase data, and complementary data sets, for audience scoring and validation that drives precision marketing.
To learn more about Affinity Solutions visit www.affinitysolutions.com
About GSTV
GSTV is a data-driven, national video network entertaining targeted audiences at scale across tens of thousands of fuel retailers. Reaching more than one in three American adults monthly, GSTV engages viewers with full sight, sound, and motion video at an essential waypoint of their consumer journey, and GSTV is the only consolidated and scaled digital media platform in the convenience and fuel channel. Analysis of billions of consumer purchases demonstrates that GSTV viewers spend significantly more across retailers, services, consumer goods and other sectors following a fuel transaction. While offering consumers entertaining and informative content, GSTV drives immediate action and creates lasting brand impressions, delivering measurable results for the world's largest advertisers. Visit www.gstv.com for more information and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter.
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SOURCE GSTV | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/new-affinity-solutions-study-commissioned-by-gstv-uncovers-link-between-fueling-behavior-elevated-consumer-spending/ | 2022-05-11T16:18:58Z |
Research shows small business digital transformation continues, opening the door for deeper financial relationships
PLANO, Texas, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Alkami Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: ALKT) ("Alkami"), a leading cloud-based digital banking solutions provider for banks and credit unions in the U.S., announced the release of a new research report, "Digital Banking Market Pulse: Small business recovery in light of the FI paradigm shift." The report explores the stability of the relationships between financial institutions (FIs) and small businesses (SMBs) in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
For the report, Alkami surveyed 400 small businesses to understand how COVID has impacted them and how they feel about the future.
"The pandemic accelerated the adoption of financial technology for many small businesses, prompting an evolution in their business model," said Allison Cerra, chief marketing officer of Alkami. "With the help of digital transformation, small businesses are bouncing back in greater numbers. FIs have an opportunity to grow the relationship with these firms by meeting them online, on mobile and on their terms."
Key findings from the report include:
- Primacy is key. The primary financial institution (PFI) relationship holds sway. The key for FIs is to gain primacy through the deposit account, which is how more than half of SMBs define their PFI relationship. Digital account opening is the onramp to a broader financial relationship with these firms.
- SMBs are investing in their business. Fifty-three percent of SMBs cited technology as an investment priority—opening the door for financial providers to grow the relationship.
- FIs have most of the mindshare. More than 60 percent of SMBs believe the "bank" of the future will be a financial services company (vs. a technology company).
Cerra will share details of the report on Thursday, May 19, at 2:00 p.m. ET, during the American Banker Web Seminar: Small business recovery in light of the FI paradigm shift. Register here to attend.
About Alkami
Alkami Technology, Inc. is a leading cloud-based digital banking solutions provider for financial institutions in the United States that enables clients to grow confidently, adapt quickly and build thriving digital communities. Alkami helps clients transform through retail and business banking, digital account opening, loan origination, and multi-payment fraud prevention solutions. To learn more, visit www.alkami.com.
Media Relations Contact
Jennifer Cortez
jennifer.cortez@alkami.com
Katie Schimmel
katie@outlookmarketingsrv.com
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SOURCE Alkami Technology, Inc. | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/new-alkami-report-uncovers-opportunities-financial-institutions-enhance-relationships-with-small-businesses-post-covid/ | 2022-05-11T16:19:04Z |
NEW YORK, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Fewer trials than normal have been held in New York state courts over the past two years due to the coronavirus pandemic. Now, New York state courts are reopening, lifting coronavirus-related restrictions, and working diligently to resolve the backlog of cases that have been on hold due to the pandemic.
Plaintiffs and defendants who once had flexible trial dates due to the ever-changing nature of the pandemic are now operating on firm schedules. This has caused some parties to request delays, much to the chagrin of court judges who are desperate to get through their backlogged cases. Many judges have been unwilling to grant these requests because they are overwhelmed by the sheer number of cases yet to be tried.
"Our firm has had four trials over the last four weeks," Attorney Michael Rose of Hach & Rose, LLP said. "In one circumstance, we had a case with three different insurance companies that requested a postponement of the trial for two weeks to resolve the scheduling issue. The judge denied the request and the case began jury selection. By the end of the day on Friday, there was an offer of settlement for $750,000. The case settled before lunch for $1.5 million. When a case is sent to trial, things start to happen. The leverage that we lost with the inability to push the case to trial is now coming back."
The shutdown of the courts due to the pandemic did not slow down the team at Hach & Rose, LLP, however. In fact, Attorney John Blyth was dealing with an injury case the very last week before the courts closed. The case involved a 2016 accident in which a client was struck by a motor vehicle as he was exiting a city bus in Queens. The Plaintiff commenced suit in Queens County Supreme Court against the bus company and the driver who struck him. Hach & Rose secured a jury verdict on the last day of jury service before the pandemic shut down the courts, and the client had to wait two years for the damages phase of his trial to commence.
The other side offered a settlement of $250,000, but the client held firm during the long wait, and ultimately secured a jury verdict of $600,000, which included $300,000 for past pain and suffering and another $300,000 for future pain and suffering.
Attorney Blyth credits his client with having the patience to see the case through to the very end. Because they maintained an open line of communication (the client had Attorney Blyth's cell phone and could call for updates whenever he needed them), they were able to stay connected and hold strong during the unusually long wait. The client could have accepted the lower settlement amount at any time, but he was confident in his lawyer and knew that when the day came, Hach & Rose, LLP would get a good result for him.
This pre-and-post pandemic success story speaks to the commitment that Hach & Rose, LLP has for its clients. Now that the courts are open, the firm is aggressively seeking to resolve cases that have been on hold due to the pandemic restrictions.
Firm partner Michael Rose says:
"The courts are opening up now and judges are very eager for cases to be tried. Our office has a full trial calendar with trials scheduled May, June, and July. Judges in New York are taking trial dates seriously. It used to be easy to cause further delays, but the backlogs made the courts take trial dates seriously. If you have a trial date, you should expect the case will move forward."
Hach & Rose is one of New York's premier civil litigation law firms. Its main office is located in Manhattan. Visit their website at www.unionlawfirm.com to learn more about the firm.
Despite the delays imposed by the pandemic, the seasoned New York litigators at Hach & Rose, LLP did not become complacent. They remained prepared for trial and ready to seek compensation for their clients. In fact, the firm has more than ten cases scheduled for trial between now and mid-June.
"We've been preparing for this the last two years, and we have the resources to handle it," Mike Rose said. "It's our intention to be ready for each and every one of these trials."
If you were seriously injured in an accident in New York and you hired a personal injury attorney, you may be having second thoughts about your choice as time has passed. It is not uncommon for a client to switch attorneys in the middle of an injury case, and oftentimes switching has a positive impact on the final outcome.
You deserve to be represented by a lawyer who you trust and who will make your case a priority. You might worry that switching attorneys will harm your case, but the truth is that working with an attorney who doesn't give you the personalized attention you deserve could hurt your case a lot more than starting fresh with a new attorney.
If you feel like your current attorney is not making sufficient progress on your case, or you simply do not feel understood or respected, contact the New York personal injury lawyers at Hach & Rose, LLP today for a free consultation. They will listen to your concerns and determine if you are eligible to switch attorneys. If the firm takes your case, you can be sure that Hach & Rose will work quickly but diligently to prepare it for trial. Reach out today for a free consultation.
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SOURCE Hach & Rose, LLP | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/new-york-state-trial-courts-are-now-open-per-hach-amp-rose-llp/ | 2022-05-11T16:19:10Z |
Flowers are hand-selected for quality and flavor
BOSTON, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Number 9 Collection (www.number9collection.com), an all-natural, sustainable, sun-grown cannabis farm in Massachusetts, announced the availability of premium cannabis flowers packaged individually in popular eighth of an ounce containers. Commonly referred to a "buds" or "nuggets," these flowers are specially selected for their size, density, and terpene profiles.
The No9 Collection is grown in natural sunlight, and the company is committed to using environmentally-friendly farming methods including the use of on-site artesian well water, natural amendments, and organic farming practices. This results in ultra-clean plants with robust and unique terpene characteristics.
The company's licensed, 14+ acre cultivation is based in the agriculture-rich community of Wareham, MA, along Buzzards Bay. The bay's unique microclimate provides a longer growing season and the perfect setting for the cultivation of high-quality, sun-grown crops.
The new "eighths" are a common weight measurement used when selling cannabis. It equates to one-eighth (⅛) of an ounce by weight, which is a standardized amount typically sold by cannabis shops and dispensaries.
The No9 Collection takes pride in producing cannabis flowers that are uniquely rich in terpenes and cannabinoids. While some customers simply purchase cannabis with the highest THC content they can find, sophisticated consumers are now realizing that the cannabinoid content and the interaction of those specific compounds are much more important than just the THC levels.
By growing specific proprietary strains in an all-natural environment, the No9 Collection has produced some of the most complex and satisfying crops in Massachusetts. As a result, its inventory often rapidly sells out.
The No9 Collection is usually available at finer dispensaries across the state, including: The Great Barrington Dispensary, Seagrass in Salem, Solar Therapeutics in Somerset and Seekonk, Elev8 in Athol, United Cultivation in Ashby, and Diem in Lynn and Worcester. If your favorite dispensary doesn't carry the No9 Collection, ask the store manager to order some and it can usually be delivered within a few days. Remember, cannabis may only be purchased legally through a licensed dispensary by adults at least 21 years of age.
To learn more about the The No9 Collection, visit the website or follow them on Instagram or Facebook.
About The No9 Collection
The No9 Collection is part of the Coastal Cultivars portfolio of businesses that includes local cultivation, craft cannabis products, retail store operations, and consulting services. With decades of experience in the licensed cannabis industry, the Coastal Cultivars team brings together extensive local and national expertise to offer its customers best-in-class products and a customer-first retail experience. The team is proud to be part of a progressive movement working to ensure safe cannabis access for consumers, and supports sustainable cannabis cultivation through the Sun and Soil initiative.
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SOURCE No9 Collection | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/number-9-collection-announces-release-premium-flower-buds-new-eighth-ounce-packaging/ | 2022-05-11T16:19:19Z |
New Oracle Fusion Cloud Service integration drives personalized, informed, and efficient customer engagements
AUSTIN, Texas, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Oracle has updated Oracle Service to embed data from Oracle Unity Customer Data Platform (CDP) to help customer service agents gain a complete view of the customer, improve agent efficiency, and enhance service quality. Part of Oracle Fusion Cloud Customer Experience (CX), Oracle Service and Oracle Unity CDP leverage artificial intelligence to help organizations deliver more personalized, informed, and efficient customer service engagements.
Every customer interaction matters, with one in three people saying that they would never shop with a brand again after a bad experience. Yet customer service remains a frustrating and painful experience for many consumers. In fact, a CRM Essentials survey recently revealed that people would rather sit in traffic (15 percent), clean the bathroom (15 percent), wait in line at the DMV (12 percent), or argue with a significant other (8 percent) than interact with a customer service agent.
"Service agents frequently work from a patchwork of systems and rarely have the right data in front of them to solve customer problems efficiently and effectively," said Jeff Wartgow, vice president product management, Oracle Advertising and Customer Experience (CX). "By embedding data from Oracle Unity within Oracle Service, we can give service agents real-time customer insights and recommendations within the tools they already use. This will help brands drive positive engagements by making sure their customers feel heard, helped, and appreciated."
The new integration between Oracle Unity and Oracle Service will enable:
- Personalized Agent Routing: Customer service agents can now be assigned to customers based on an understanding of customer history, loyalty status, and product usage. For example, customers who search for or purchase items for dogs can get directed to an agent who is passionate about dogs, or a customer interested in items for cats can get directed to an agent who is passionate about cats.
- Service-aware Marketing: Customer service agents can now easily add a customer to a targeted marketing campaign with one click. For example, if a customer expresses interest in a product or service but isn't ready to commit to a purchase, the agent can add the customer to a follow-up marketing campaign to receive relevant offers and discounts. In addition, customer service information can be used to improve marketing programs and even suppress customers from receiving marketing messages if they are having service issues.
- Proactive Service: Customer service agents can now spend less time searching and sorting through customer information and more time focused on the customer with quick access to relevant insights. Service agents can also use data to proactively engage customers through the most appropriate and efficient channel (e.g., live chat, digital assistants, video chat). For example, with knowledge of previous customer activity, such as recently viewed pages on the website, an agent can deliver more relevant service information without having to ask questions upfront.
- Intelligent Recommendations: Customer service agents can now use a new Insights Panel on their desktop for recommendations on what a customer might be looking for or additional products they might be interested in. For example, based upon what is already known about a customer, their service agent can see they recently purchased a Macbook and can therefore recommend an Apple-compatible keyboard.
Oracle Service gives organizations the ability to predict the need for service, automate processes, and deliver tailored responses, while balancing self-service and assisted customer service models. It offers powerful and intelligent B2B, B2C, and field solutions that helps organizations give their customers the service they want, when and where they need it.
Oracle Unity provides business leaders with everything they need to manage customer data. It brings together online, offline, and third-party customer data sources and then applies built-in machine learning to prescribe the best next action within existing business processes.
This latest innovation is available for Oracle Service customers today. Learn more here.
"No single organization is responsible for the customer and the success of their end-to-end journey1," according to Forrester. According to another Forrester report, "Better visibility into customer journeys will enable agents to better anticipate needs and personalize interactions. Companies will work on breaking down the technology silos within and outside of customer service to best support customers along their journeys2."
"Organizations need to rethink their business models and create customer experiences that meet and exceed heightened customer expectations," said Akhilesh Tiwari, vice president and Global Head of Enterprise Application Services, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS). "This involves re-imagining customer journeys and unifying experiences across platforms. Combined with TCS' Oracle Cloud expertise and in-depth industry knowledge, Oracle Unity's integration with Oracle Service will be a pivotal differentiator in how we help companies better understand their customers so they can enhance each customer interaction."
- Forrester, "CRM And DX Programs Are Set To Collide — Here's What You Should Do About It," Kate Leggett and Joe Cicman, September 2021
- Forrester, "The Three Customer Service Megatrends In 2021: Post-Pandemic Customer Service Excellence," Kate Leggett, January 2021
Oracle offers integrated suites of applications plus secure, autonomous infrastructure in the Oracle Cloud. For more information about Oracle (NYSE: ORCL), please visit us at oracle.com.
Oracle, Java, and MySQL are registered trademarks of Oracle Corporation.
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SOURCE Oracle | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/oracle-offers-service-agents-unified-view-customer-with-oracle-fusion-cloud-unity-cdp/ | 2022-05-11T16:19:26Z |
Company is raising funds to support marketing for two breakthrough oral care products
Early Ortek investors will receive bonuses
ROSLYN HEIGHTS, N.Y., May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Ortek Therapeutics, Inc., a leader in developing and commercializing novel oral care technologies, is now raising capital on StartEngine, the leading equity crowd-funding platform that has attracted 760,000 investors and has helped more than 760 companies raise $500 million.
Ortek will use funds raised on StartEngine to turbocharge multi-media marketing programs for its two revolutionary products – the Ortek-ECD® device, which is cleared by the FDA, and can detect early cavities that X-rays often miss, and Basicbites® delicious sugar free soft chews that use microbiome-based technology to help support enamel health. Bonuses are available for early investors. For details on Ortek's equity crowd-funding offer, please visit startengine.com/ortek.
Tooth decay is the world's most common chronic disease and affects an estimated 2.3 billion people worldwide. The vast majority of cavities occur in the back teeth (molars and premolars). Without using radiation, the ECD painlessly measures the electrical conductance of enamel on these vulnerable sites and can immediately detect the earliest signs of tooth decay that X-rays often miss. Early treatment can then help patients avoid the pain, damage and costs associated with more advanced cavities, which can lead to root canals, infections and tooth loss. The ECD is patented internationally and is used by hundreds of dental professionals in the U.S. and provides dental offices with a profitable revenue stream.
BasicBites are Ortek's revolutionary sugar free soft chew product that is clinically shown to help maintain enamel health. BasicBites contain Ortek's oral microbiome technology that helps support teeth from the harmful effects of dry mouth and sugary foods and drinks. BasicBites work differently than other oral care products. By harnessing the power of the oral microbiome, BasicBites immediately neutralize harmful sugar acids, enrich enamel and help maintain a balanced and healthy oral pH environment. Multi-action BasicBites coat and replenish teeth with a blend of vital nutrients that are also naturally found in the mouth – arginine, bicarbonate and calcium.
"The ECD and BasicBites are uniquely able to address widely prevalent unmet needs in dental care," said Ortek President Mitchell Goldberg. "We see StartEngine as the launching pad for tremendous growth, and we have only begun to tap into the tremendous potential of these products."
About Ortek
Ortek Therapeutics, Inc. is a global leader in developing and commercializing cutting-edge oral care technologies. For details on Ortek's crowd-funding offer, visit startengine.com/ortek. For more information on the company, visit ortekinc.com
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SOURCE Ortek Therapeutics, Inc. | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/ortek-launches-equity-crowd-funding-campaign-startengine/ | 2022-05-11T16:19:33Z |
—One third of senior leaders are receiving higher equity values—
BOSTON, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Executive compensation consultancy Pearl Meyer has published new data that show companies are going deeper into their organizations with equity grants, and that burn rates have increased dramatically.
- 28% indicated more employees are receiving equity than in the previous year
- 34% have increased the value of equity granted to top leadership
- 37% have raised the value of equity offered to new senior leadership hires and 30.5% have raised equity grant values for other lower-level new hires
- 45% have increased their equity burn rate this year; just 7.5% noted it will be lower than 2021
"This outcome is not surprising," said Aalap Shah, managing director at Pearl Meyer and a sponsor of the survey. "We have heard many compensation committees and management teams discuss the need to broaden equity eligibility in order to be competitive. This speaks to the current difficulty in both retaining high performers and recruiting new talent. However, there is also concern, and rightly so, about overall share usage and shareholder sentiment."
The survey shows that fewer than a third—just 29%—take the value of unvested equity holdings into account when making new equity grant decisions.
"A review of an executive's unvested equity value can be an important tool for the compensation committee to manage costs, particularly when there is so much external pressure," noted Shah. "Having that information at hand provides a more accurate context for making decisions and evaluating whether or not you actually have a retention risk."
The online survey "Trends in Granting Equity" was conducted between March 16-25, 2022 and 187 organizations responded. Most taking the survey (76%) reported they are either in HR or the c-suite and 19% are board members. Complete data and analysis is available at www.pearlmeyer.com.
Pearl Meyer is the leading advisor to boards and senior management on the alignment of executive compensation with business and leadership strategy, making pay programs a powerful catalyst for value creation and competitive advantage. Pearl Meyer's global clients stand at the forefront of their industries and range from emerging high-growth, not-for-profit, and private companies to the Fortune 500 and FTSE 350. The firm has offices in Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Houston, London, Los Angeles, New York, Rochester, and San Jose.
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SOURCE Pearl Meyer | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/pearl-meyer-survey-finds-more-employees-receiving-equity-grants/ | 2022-05-11T16:19:40Z |
A video on the social media platform demonstrates how safe kennel travel can save your dog's life
NASHVILLE, Tenn. , May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- A controversial video making the rounds on TikTok has some dog owners up in arms, but its creators say the message they're spreading could be a matter of life or death.
In honor of National Pet Safety Month, GUNNER – a leading pet manufacturer company that produced the first 5 Star Crash Tested travel kennel – put together an Egg Test Video to demonstrate how dangerous it can be for your pet in a vehicle.
"We wanted a shock factor to wake people up, because many dog owners are unaware of the impact of their co-pilot traveling unrestrained," said Emily Edmonds, GUNNER Co-Founder.
Using a raw egg and miniature models of a vehicle and the GUNNER kennel, the video uses a shake table to demonstrate how a properly fitted, crash-tested restraint can cushion pets during sudden stop and protect them from injury during a wreck.
It also shows the raw egg when not protected in a crate within the vehicle.
"When a vehicle is traveling at highway speeds, so are all the objects within it. In a sudden stop or accident, the vehicle slows rapidly but your dog continues moving at the same velocity until other forces reduce its speed," Edmonds said. "Think about the effectiveness of seatbelts and airbags. Our pets need the same. We've heard from dozens of real-life customers who say that if their dog had not been in our kennel, they wouldn't be alive today."
According to a 2011 AAA study, 84% of U.S. drivers bring their dogs with them but do not use a restraint. With 90 million dogs in the country, that's around 75 million pets at risk.
When choosing a restraint for your pet, Edmonds says the first step is to look for products that are independently crash tested, like those that have passed the Center For Pet Safety (CPS) certifications.
In its original 2015 study, GUNNER was the only crate to pass, and Edmonds says there is no oversight agent for the pet product industry when it comes to travel products.
To see additional eye-opening statistics that emphasize why your pet should be properly restrained in a vehicle, visit https://gunner.com/pages/egg-test.
Media Contact:
Rylee Gallagher – GUNNER®
rylee.gallagher@gunner.com
5207 Linbar Drive Suite 704
Nashville, TN 37211
1-844-GUNNERK
www.gunner.com
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SOURCE GUNNER | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/popular-tiktok-shows-dangers-unrestrained-pet-travel/ | 2022-05-11T16:19:47Z |
New Princess Premier Add-On Includes Unlimited WiFi, Top-Shelf Drinks, Specialty Dining, Photos and More
SANTA CLARITA, Calif., May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Princess Cruises today announced Princess Premier, a new premium add-on package that offers guests unlimited WiFi for up to 4 devices, premium/top-shelf beverages, photos, specialty dining, and crew gratuities/appreciation. For just $75 per person per day, the inclusive package builds off the popular Princess Plus add-on to offer a more comprehensive bundle and savings of more than 50 percent when the amenities of Princess Premier are purchased separately. In a unique promotion twist, Princess Premier guests also will be automatically entered into a new onboard promotion for a chance to win a cruise for two every year for a decade and up to $100,000 in cash prizes.
"Guests have overwhelmingly embraced the convenience and value offered in Princess Plus, so we are adding Princess Premier to take our inclusivity options to the next level," said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. "Princess Premier is our most inclusive package, offering guests sought-after onboard amenities at an incredible value. Whether a guest prefers a standalone cruise purchase or a fully inclusive vacation, Princess has hassle-free options for everyone. Every option is intended to provide great value."
Princess Premier goes on sale May 25, for voyages starting June 25 and beyond. The package is available for just $75 per person, per day, and includes:
- Unlimited MedallionNet WiFi - the best WiFi at sea - for up to four-devices
- New "Premier" Beverage Package – top-shelf spirits and cocktails up to $18 with bar service charge included, new selection of wines by the glass, 25 percent bottles of wine, specialty coffees, smoothies, and bottled water
- Two specialty dining meals per person including popular restaurants like Crown Grill and Sabatini's Italian Trattoria
- Digital downloads of all photos taken by professional staff onboard, plus three prints of any size up to 8 x 10
- Entry into new Princess Prizes on board door portal promotion
- Daily Crew Appreciation
Princess Premier also includes entry into Princess Prizes, a new experience that transforms guests' stateroom entry into an exciting experience for chances to win cruise vacations, cash, exclusive onboard experiences and more. The new game is a first-of-its-kind stateroom gaming experience exclusively with MedallionClass capabilities.
For a one-time entry fee per stateroom of $20 per day, when purchased separately, every time an adult guest accesses their stateroom with their Medallion*, they will have the chance to win grand prizes that include $100,000 in cash and a cruise for two every year for the next decade, along with prizes won on every voyage that range from a cruise for two in a balcony stateroom, onboard cruise credits from $25 up to $250, wine tastings, and chef's table dinners. Guests can also win entries for an end-of-cruise drawing in which someone will win at least $5,000 every voyage.
All Princess vacations offer elegantly appointed accommodations, world-class entertainment, gourmet dining and the MedallionClass experience. The addition of Princess Premier gives guests three package options when booking a Princess cruise vacation:
- Princess Standard cruise package, including the standard cruise fare
- Princess Plus ($40 per person, per day until May 25; $50 per person, per day starting May 25) – including unlimited WiFi for a single device; Plus Beverage package (covering drinks up to $12, 25 percent off bottles of wine, specialty coffees, smoothies and bottled water); and daily crew appreciation
- NEW! Princess Premier ($75 per person, per day), on sale beginning May 25
Guests on voyages departing June 25 and beyond who previously purchased Princess Plus can upgrade to Princess Premier for an additional $25 per person, per day.
More information on Princess Premier, Princes Plus and Princess Select can be found here: https://www.princess.com/cruisepackages.
Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237), or by visiting the company's website at http://www.princess.com/.
* when ship is in international waters
About Princess Cruises:
One of the best-known names in cruising, Princess Cruises is the world's leading international premium cruise line and tour company operating a fleet of 15 modern cruise ships, carrying millions of guests each year to 330 destinations around the globe, including the Caribbean, Alaska, Panama Canal, Mexican Riviera, Europe, South America, Australia/New Zealand, the South Pacific, Hawaii, Asia, Canada/New England, Antarctica, and World Cruises. A team of professional destination experts have curated 170 itineraries, ranging in length from three to 111 days and Princess Cruises is continuously recognized as "Best Cruise Line for Itineraries." In 2017 Princess Cruises, with parent company Carnival Corporation, introduced MedallionClass Vacations enabled by the Medallion device, the vacation industry's most advanced wearable device, provided free to each guest sailing on a MedallionClass ship. The award-winning innovation offers the fastest way to an effortless personalized vacation, giving guests more time to do the things they love most. The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE:CUK).
In line with the latest advice from health officials about COVID-19, Princess Cruises is currently enhancing health and safety protocols with input from medical experts and government bodies and assessing how they may impact future itineraries. Actual offerings may vary from what is displayed in marketing materials. Click on the following links to stay updated on current Cruise Updates and Health & Safety protocols.
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SOURCE Princess Cruises | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/princess-cruises-introduces-all-inclusive-premier-package-offering-top-amenities-incredible-value/ | 2022-05-11T16:19:57Z |
Eventex award wins are the latest for RainFocus, adding to other recent industry-leading recognitions
LEHI, Utah, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- RainFocus™, provider of the next-generation enterprise event marketing platform, today announced it was awarded eight 2022 Eventex Awards, including the Platinum award for the Event Management Solution category, six Gold awards, and one Silver award. This total made RainFocus the most awarded technology platform in this year's Eventex awards program.
Among RainFocus' awards is its gold recognition in the People's Choice Event Technology category, showcasing the company's expertise and commitment to delivering superior user experiences for event management and marketing professionals. The Eventex Awards is the most esteemed accolade in the world of events and experiential marketing, a true symbol of excellence.
The complete list of RainFocus' 2022 Eventex wins includes the following:
- Event Management Solution, Platinum
- People's Choice Event Technology, Gold
- Audience Engagement Technology, Gold
- Conference Technology, Gold
- Data Collection/Event Analytics Technology, Gold
- Event Registration Technology, Gold
- Hybrid Event Platform, Gold
- Attendee Management Technology, Silver
"The past two years have been anything but ordinary for the events industry. Marketers needed agility and flexibility to pivot at a moment's notice," explained RainFocus CEO JR Sherman. "Whether in person, remote, or hybrid, clients need to engage with attendees effectively. We're steadfast in our commitment to providing our customers with the right data-driven technologies to deliver compelling content pre-, during, and post-event – ensuring events are integrated and lead-generating, serving as key components of a marketing strategy. We're extremely proud of these Eventex recognitions."
The Eventex award wins are the latest industry recognitions that RainFocus has received for innovation and expertise in end-to-end event management and marketing. The company was awarded a silver award from the American Business Awards in the Event Management Solution category. SaaSworthy also recognized RainFocus as the Fastest Growing Software in Event Management. These award wins further validate RainFocus' next-gen event management platform as the standard for providing first-rate event experiences that drive attendee engagement and help marketers maintain existing customers and convert new ones.
About RainFocus
RainFocus is a next-generation event marketing platform built from the ground up to capture, analyze, and harness an unprecedented amount of data for significantly better events and conferences. As a true SaaS platform, RainFocus simplifies event registration, content management, and exhibitor activation seamlessly across physical, virtual, and hybrid experiences, all from a single dashboard. For more information, visit www.rainfocus.com.
Additional Resources
- Join the conversation with RainFocus on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
- Visit RainFocus.com to learn more about our event marketing and management platform. If you're ready to get started, request a demo.
- Discover powerful insights and solutions for event delivery and network with peers, thought leaders, and industry experts at RainFocus INSIGHT. Learn more.
- Are you interested in joining the RainFocus Partner Program? Apply today.
- Grow your career and help reshape the events industry at RainFocus. Apply here.
Media Contact:
Jessica Johnson
jessica.johnson@rainfocus.com
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SOURCE RainFocus | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/rainfocus-recognized-most-awarded-technology-platform-by-eventex-awards/ | 2022-05-11T16:20:03Z |
Investment expected to strengthen and expand UnisLink's capabilities in end-to-end revenue cycle, clinical care and software solutions for independent physician groups, ACOs, and value-based care groups
PHOENIX, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- UnisLink, a leading provider of integrated revenue cycle and population health management services, is thrilled to announce a significant investment from Riverside Partners, a Boston-based private equity firm.
"UnisLink is dedicated to helping independent physician groups, ACOs, and value-based care groups provide better health care to their patients while also maximizing financial returns," said UnisLink's three co-founders, Amit Lal, Kannan Ramachandran, and Shaun Kanaka. "As a private equity firm that invests in healthcare and technology companies, Riverside shares our vision to provide consistent, high-quality services and market leading software solutions to help our clients succeed in today's complex health care environment."
UnisLink currently serves hundreds of customers across the U.S. and this strategic investment from Riverside will help bring advanced revenue cycle solutions to hundreds more independent physician groups, ACOs, and value-based care groups.
"We are extremely excited to partner with Amit Lal, Kannan Ramachandran and Shaun Kanaka, the founders of UnisLink," said Max Osofsky, a General Partner at Riverside Partners. "UnisLink's proprietary technology and high-quality service levels enable its clients to focus on providing quality patient care and not on whether they will get paid for their services. We look forward to partnering with the team in making investments to support the Company's next stage of growth, both organically and through acquisitions."
"UnisLink is a great fit with Riverside's focus on investing in differentiated, founder-owned businesses in growing end markets," said David Belluck, a General Partner at Riverside Partners. "UnisLink represents a business at the intersection of Riverside's healthcare and technology sector focus. We are excited to partner with the three founders who will continue to manage the company as well own a large equity stake going forward."
UnisLink's three co-founders concluded, "In addition to the growth potential it brings, our new partnership with Riverside will ensure that UnisLink's clients will reap the benefits of increased investments in service, infrastructure, data security, quality and market leading technology."
Leonis Partners served as the financial advisor to UnisLink in the transaction. Choate Hall & Stewart LLP served as legal counsel to Riverside Partners, and Morris, Manning & Martin LLP served as legal counsel to UnisLink.
About UnisLink
UnisLink leverages its proprietary software solutions to provide end-to-end revenue cycle management and population health management services to independent physician groups, ACOs, and value-based care groups across the United States. Headquartered in Phoenix, AZ, the Company deploys unique technology, analytics, and skilled teams to enhance clinical outcomes while improving the financial performance of its customers. For more information, visit www.unislink.com.
About Riverside Partners
Founded in 1989, Riverside Partners is a middle market private equity firm currently investing out of its sixth fund. The firm focuses on growth-oriented companies in the technology and healthcare industries. Riverside Partners is particularly experienced at partnering with founders, owners and management teams and it brings substantial domain expertise and operating experience to its portfolio companies. Today, Riverside Partners manages $1.1 billion of equity capital and seeks to make investments in companies with EBITDA between $3 and $15 million. For more information, please visit www.riversidepartners.com and follow the firm on LinkedIn, www.linkedin.com/company/riverside-partners
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SOURCE UnisLink | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/riverside-partners-completes-significant-investment-unislink-support-continued-growth-innovation/ | 2022-05-11T16:20:09Z |
OAKVILLE, ON, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Samuel, Son & Co., Limited, a leading metals distributor and industrial products manufacturer, was recognized for overall business performance and sustained growth with the prestigious Canada's Best Managed Companies designation.
The 2022 Best Managed program award winners are among the best-in-class of Canadian owned and managed companies with revenues over $50 million demonstrating leadership in the areas of strategy, capabilities and innovation, culture and commitment, and financials to achieve sustainable growth. Now in its 29th year, Canada's Best Managed Companies remains one of the country's leading business awards programs recognizing Canadian-owned and managed companies for innovative, world-class business practices. Every year, hundreds of entrepreneurial companies compete for this designation in a rigorous and independent process that evaluates the caliber of their management abilities and practices.
"The 2022 Best Managed winners exemplify innovation, adaptability, and resilience in the face of uncertainty," said Lorrie King, Partner, Deloitte Private and Co-Leader, Canada's Best Managed Companies program. "Over the past year, these forward-forging companies have pivoted to successfully respond to challenges and capitalize on new opportunities, leveraging industry-leading competencies to maximize their investments and drive sustainable growth."
"Samuel is thrilled to be recognized as one of Canada's best managed private companies. I'd like to thank our team members for the critical role they've played," stated Colin Osborne, President and CEO of Samuel. "We owe our lasting success to the commitment of our team, the entrepreneurial spirit and values instilled in us by every generation of leadership, and our ability to constantly evolve as we've grown."
Samuel is a fifth generation, family-owned business with a proud history of business success reaching back to its founding in 1855. The company is highly diversified in the markets it serves, including the supply of metal and fabricated products, automation systems and 3D printed metal components, to customers throughout North America.
Applicants are evaluated by an independent judging panel comprised of representatives from program sponsors in addition to special guest judges. 2022 Best Managed companies share commonalities that include putting their people and culture at the forefront, focusing on their ESG strategies and doubling down on accelerated digitization.
The Best Managed program is sponsored by Deloitte Private, CIBC, The Globe and Mail, Salesforce, and the TMX Group.
About Canada's Best Managed Companies
Canada's Best Managed Companies continues to be the mark of excellence for Canadian-owned and managed companies with revenues over $50 million. Every year since the launch of the program in 1993, hundreds of entrepreneurial companies have competed for this designation in a rigorous and independent process that evaluates their management skills and practices. The awards are granted on four levels: 1) Canada's Best Managed Companies new winner (one of the new winners selected each year); 2) Canada's Best Managed Companies winner (award recipients that have re-applied and successfully retained their Best Managed designation for two additional years, subject to annual operational and financial review); 3) Gold Standard winner (after three consecutive years of maintaining their Best Managed status, these winners have demonstrated their commitment to the program and successfully retained their award for 4-6 consecutive years); 4) Platinum Club member (winners that have maintained their Best Managed status for seven years or more). Program sponsors are Deloitte Private, CIBC, The Globe and Mail, Salesforce, and TMX Group. For more information, visit www.bestmanagedcompanies.ca.
About Samuel
Founded in 1855, Samuel, Son & Co., Limited, is a family-owned integrated network of metal manufacturing, processing and distribution divisions. Samuel employees provide metals, industrial products and related value-added services from locations across North America. The company leverages its industry expertise, breadth of experience and the passion of its people to help drive success for North American business – one customer at a time.
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SOURCE Samuel Son & Co., Limited | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/samuel-named-one-canadas-best-managed-companies/ | 2022-05-11T16:20:17Z |
MILWAUKEE, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Ademi LLP is investigating Redbox (Nasdaq: RDBX) for possible breaches of fiduciary duty and other violations of law in its transaction with CSS Entertainment.
Click here to learn how to join the action: https://www.ademilaw.com/case/redbox-entertainment-inc or call Guri Ademi toll-free at 866-264-3995. There is no cost or obligation to you.
Ademi LLP alleges Redbox's financial outlook and prospects are excellent and yet Redbox holders will receive only 0.087 of a share of class A common stock of CSS Entertainment per Redbox share. Following the close of the transaction, CSS Entertainment stockholders will own approximately 76.5% of the combined company, and Redbox stockholders will own approximately 23.5% of the combined company, on a fully diluted basis. Redbox stockholders holding approximately 86% of the Redbox voting power have entered into a voting agreement to approve the transaction. The transaction agreement unreasonably limits competing bids for Redbox by prohibiting solicitation of further bids, and imposing a significant penalty if Redbox accepts a superior bid. Redbox insiders will receive substantial benefits as part of change of control arrangements.
We are investigating the conduct of Redbox's board of directors, and whether they are (i) fulfilling their fiduciary duties to all shareholders, and (ii) obtaining a fair and reasonable price for Redbox.
If you own Redbox common stock and wish to obtain additional information, please contact Guri Ademi either at gademi@ademilaw.com or toll-free: 866-264-3995, or https://www.ademilaw.com/case/redbox-entertainment-inc.
We specialize in shareholder litigation involving buyouts, mergers, and individual shareholder rights throughout the country. For more information, please feel free to call us. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
Contacts
Ademi LLP
Guri Ademi
Toll Free: (866) 264-3995
Fax: (414) 482-8001
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MILWAUKEE, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Ademi LLP is investigating Switch (NYSE: SWCH) for possible breaches of fiduciary duty and other violations of law in its transaction with DigitalBridge.
Click here to learn how to join the action: https://www.ademilaw.com/case/switch-inc or call Guri Ademi toll-free at 866-264-3995. There is no cost or obligation to you.
Ademi LLP alleges Switch's financial outlook and prospects are excellent and yet Switch holders will receive only $34.25 per share in an all-cash transaction valued at approximately $11 billion. The transaction agreement unreasonably limits competing bids for Switch by prohibiting solicitation of further bids, and imposing a significant penalty if Switch accepts a superior bid. Switch insiders will receive substantial benefits as part of change of control arrangements.
We are investigating the conduct of Switch's board of directors, and whether they are (i) fulfilling their fiduciary duties to all shareholders, and (ii) obtaining a fair and reasonable price for Switch.
If you own Switch common stock and wish to obtain additional information, please contact Guri Ademi either at gademi@ademilaw.com or toll-free: 866-264-3995, or https://www.ademilaw.com/case/switch-inc.
We specialize in shareholder litigation involving buyouts, mergers, and individual shareholder rights throughout the country. For more information, please feel free to call us. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
Contacts
Ademi LLP
Guri Ademi
Toll Free: (866) 264-3995
Fax: (414) 482-8001
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New offering is the only mouth sore rinse that can soothe oral irritation and prevent bad breath for 24 hours with just two rinses a day
ST. LOUIS, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- SmartMouth – a leading provider of innovative oral-care products – introduced its latest advancement in oral health: SmartMouth Mouth Sore Oral Rinse. The new SmartMouth product still prevents bad breath for 24 hours with just two rinses a day, and it is formulated to effectively soothe oral pain as well. SmartMouth Mouth Sore Oral Rinse is currently available in a 16-ounce bottle at Walmart, 16 and 10-ounce bottle on smartmouth.com and will be available in a 10-ounce bottle at Publix and Harmon Face Values in June at a suggested retail price of $7.99 - $11.99.
SmartMouth Mouth Sore Mouthwash contains the same bad-breath-fighting formula as the company's original activated mouthwash, with the addition of Menthol for oral pain relief. As a result, SmartMouth Mouth Sore Oral Rinse not only eliminates and prevents bad breath but also soothes pain related to mouth sores, canker sores and cheek bites. The product also can be used to ease gum, braces, and denture irritation. Additionally, the product's zinc-ion activated formula promotes oral health and boosts immunity.
"At SmartMouth, we are focused on continued innovation to stay on the leading edge of oral health," said SmartMouth CEO Jim Scheetz. "With the launch of SmartMouth Mouth Sore Mouthwash, we've given consumers the ability to address multiple oral-health issues with a single product. Now users can sooth oral pain while still eliminating and preventing the root cause of bad breath: sulfur gas."
SmartMouth's activated mouthwashes employ two powerful liquids to fight bad breath. Its Sulfur Eliminating Solution destroys the root cause of bad breath: sulfur gases in the mouth. When mixed with its zinc ion Activating Solution, the combined solution instantly activates to release billions of zinc ions that bond to the germs in the mouth, stopping the return of bad breath for 24 hours with just 2 rinses a day.
A leading innovator in the fight against bad breath, SmartMouth also has developed a Zinc Ion Toothpaste, a Clinical Activated Oral Rinse combining zinc ion technology with anti-plaque and anti-gingivitis benefits to help prevent bleeding gums for optimal oral health, as well as mints and mouthwash designed to temporarily relieve dry mouth while also preventing bad breath. Additional products and lines are currently in development.
About SmartMouth
A leading innovator in the fight against bad breath, SmartMouth Oral Health Laboratories was founded in 1993 by Dr. Marvin Cohen. SmartMouth products utilize a patented zinc-ion-activated technology to eliminate the root cause of bad breath: sulfur gas. The SmartMouth line of homecare oral-hygiene products includes SmartMouth Original Activated Mouthwash, Clinical Activated Mouthwash, Dry Mouth Activated Mouthwash, Dry Mouth Mints and Premium Zinc Ion Toothpaste. SmartMouth can be purchased at retailers nationwide and online. For more information about SmartMouth products, visit smartmouth.com.
For additional information, contact:
Patrick Barry - BYRNE PR
314-540-3865
Patrick@BYRNEPR.net
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Awards recognize everyday heroes making a difference for employees with disabilities
VIENNA, Va., May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- SourceAmerica®, a leading job connector within the disability community, is proud to announce the winners of its annual Achievement Awards. The winners include employees with disabilities, nonprofit agencies, federal agencies, and business partners who have demonstrated exceptional work ethic, success, and leadership in the field of disability employment, including the AbilityOne® Program. AbilityOne is one of the nation's largest sources of employment for people who are blind or have significant disabilities. Winners will be celebrated and recognized during the Xforce Conference in Dallas, from May 23-25, 2022.
"People with disabilities are an essential part of our nation's workforce. This year's award winners have demonstrated strength, leadership, and tenacity through the recent challenges the workforce has faced," said SourceAmerica President and CEO Richard Belden. "The SourceAmerica Achievement Award winners are shaping a more innovative and inclusive workforce."
Learn more about the outstanding accomplishments of the 2022 Achievement Award winners:
William M. Usdane Award - Cuiye "Yep" Liu, Toolworks, Inc., San Francisco, California
The William M. Usdane Award celebrates an AbilityOne Program employee with a disability who has exhibited outstanding achievement and exceptional character.
Cuiye "Yep" Liu exhibited positive attitude, commitment, responsibility, and resilience while cleaning offices in a high security clearance federal building in San Francisco, where she trained on CDC Covid-19 Level 3 disinfection and is part of a team deployed to disinfect contaminated areas.
Evelyne Villines Award - Cherie Hill-Mayers, Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin, Inc., Milwaukee, Wisconsin
The Evelyne Villines Award honors an individual with a disability who has advanced from work on an AbilityOne contract into management (supervisory or leadership) within the nonprofit agency, or into private or government employment.
Cherie Hill-Mayers worked at Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin, Inc. in Milwaukee for 17 years, performing multiple food service duties on an AbilityOne contract. Within the past year, she took computer and technology training classes, to conduct a job search and fulfilled a long-term goal of establishing a life in Austin, Texas, where she is now employed at a luxury hotel.
Tom Miller Advocacy Award - Abdul "Karriem" Muhammad, Professional Contract Services, Inc. (PCSI), Austin, Texas
The Tom Miller Advocacy Award recognizes an employee with a disability who has demonstrated outstanding achievement and a remarkable passion for self-advocacy on a local, state, and/or national level.
Award-winner Abdul "Karriem" Muhammad exhibits a passion for serving and advocating for people with disabilities that aligns perfectly with his career as a rehabilitation specialist. In this role, he ensures every employee with a disability has accommodations and training to succeed in all stages of their careers. Muhammad also connects employees with job opportunities at local organizations when they are ready to pursue work outside of the AbilityOne Program.
Honor Roll for Veterans Award - Gary M. McCarthy, Jr., InspiriTec, Inc., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The Honor Roll for Veterans Award pays tribute to a veteran with a service-related disability who has exhibited outstanding achievement in their work.
Gary McCarthy's work ethic, honed by more than 23 years in the military, takes his work at InspiriTec, Inc. to outstanding levels. Hired as an entry level Tier 1 contact center agent, McCarthy's performance earned him four promotions in four years, and he now manages a team of more than 80 IT Help Desk professionals.
Milton Cohen Leadership Award - Reginald Hughes, Palmetto Goodwill Services, Charleston, South Carolina
The Milton Cohen Leadership Award pays tribute to an individual within the AbilityOne® community of nonprofit agencies, or anyone previously retired within the past year, who has shown national leadership within or on behalf of the AbilityOne Program, made an impact across the entire AbilityOne community, and increased employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
Reginald Hughes is the Executive Director of Palmetto Goodwill Services. Under Hughes' leadership, Palmetto Goodwill Services has spearheaded the creation of American Sign Language classes and other efforts to support AbilityOne participants.
Force Multiplier Award Winners
The Force Multiplier Awards recognize federal or military customers whose work has significantly affected employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
The 2022 Force Multiplier Award Winners are:
Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas
For 41 years, Sheppard Air Force Base has collaborated with Work Services Corporation to provide and add job opportunities to people with significant disabilities in their community.
Project Manager-Soldier Survivability (PM-SVV) and the Army Contracting Command at Aberdeen Proving Ground (ACC-APG), Maryland
The Army's Project Manager-Soldier Survivability office and the Army Contracting Command at Aberdeen Proving Ground teamed with SourceAmerica to create a unique, lucrative contract vehicle on the federal AbilityOne Procurement List. This partnership created jobs for more than 60 people with disabilities.
William "Bill" Sproule, Chief, Installation Support Branch, Assistant Secretary of the Air Force (Acquisition, Technology & Logistics), U.S. Air Force, Arlington, Virginia
William "Bill" Sproule, from the U.S. Air Force, was part of the team that initiated the AbilityOne Representatives (ABOR) concept that was replicated across many federal agencies, and he continues to lead ABOR efforts for all Air Force operations through numerous initiatives, including creating jobs for more than 200 people with disabilities since 2018.
Lakeeta Young-Hill, ABOR, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), Washington, DC
Lakeeta Young-Hill actively pursues ways to create awareness of AbilityOne lines of business among 700 NASA contracting officials. Under her leadership, NASA set up a training series to provide its contracting and program workforce with an understanding of the AbilityOne Program to further employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
Nonprofit Agency Awards
The Nonprofit Agency Awards recognize nonprofit agencies in SourceAmerica's network which have developed innovative work methods, products or services, or have exhibited performance excellence on AbilityOne contracts while service as an example to other nonprofit agencies.
Innovation Award Winner - Adelante DiverseIT, Adelante Development Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico
DiverseIT was one of five nonprofit awardees for user experience testing through SourceAmerica, providing high wages for people with disabilities to offer the service for federal government websites. DiverseIT won its first-ever contract with the City of Albuquerque Department of Senior Affairs to help train seniors via online classes and videos and provide a free tech hotline for seniors.
Government Contracts Winner - Challenge Unlimited, Alton, Illinois
Challenge Unlimited has been a proud Scott Air Force Base partner for nearly 30 years and manages multiple AbilityOne contracts on base, including base-wide custodial services, grounds maintenance services, commissary services and subcontracted food services.
Business Partnership Award - SimplyBe Coffee, Leesburg, Virginia
The Business Partnership Award honors a small to large commercial business that has partnered with a SourceAmerica-affiliated nonprofit agency to increase employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, SimplyBe Coffee contracted with Every Citizen Has Opportunities (ECHO) to identify individuals interested in working in a coffee shop. SimplyBe hired six people with disabilities at ECHO to work in three teams during different shifts, five days a week. SimplyBe's actions were a lifeline for these employees as many of ECHO's community worksites remain closed due to the pandemic.
To learn more about the SourceAmerica Xforce Conference, visit: www.SourceAmerica.org/Xforce.
About SourceAmerica:
SourceAmerica connects government customers and other organizations to a national network of nonprofit agencies that hire a talented segment of the workforce – people with disabilities. Established in 1974, SourceAmerica is committed to increasing economic and social inclusion and advocating for a more accessible future of work for people with differing abilities. As a leading job creator within the disability community and distinguished as an AbilityOne authorized enterprise, SourceAmerica harnesses the momentum and boosts the capability of its network and customers. To learn more, visit SourceAmerica.org and follow @SourceAmerica on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
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Advanced Wi-Fi Solution Offers Southwest Customers High-Speed Internet, Streaming Video, Live Television, and More
CARLSBAD, Calif., May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Viasat, Inc. (NASDAQ: VSAT), a global communications company, today announced Southwest Airlines Co. selected the Company's next generation Ka-band satellite in-flight connectivity (IFC) system to be factory-installed on all new aircraft deliveries, starting this fall.
By selecting Viasat's industry-leading solution for its new aircraft, Southwest Airlines will provide customers enhanced internet capabilities while onboard, including the ability to stream content and entertainment, watch live television, and access social media platforms and productivity applications on any internet-ready device, gate-to-gate. Streaming-capable Wi-Fi requires a fast and robust data connection — especially to deliver high quality service on all connected devices while in-flight, regardless of how many passengers are using the system.
Viasat technology solves a key challenge in providing high quality connectivity in aviation by addressing variable concentrated demand, such as many aircraft in the same geographical area – at airport hubs or traveling on popular flight routes. The bandwidth advantage and flexibility offered by Viasat's satellite network provides a consistently high quality, high-speed, and content-rich in-flight Wi-Fi experience.
Don Buchman, Viasat's vice president and general manager, Commercial Aviation, added: "We admire Southwest Airlines' deeply customer-centric vision. The overall passenger experience is enhanced by delivering connectivity inflight that is the same as the on the ground experience, from streaming your favorite video content to live television and accessing other internet-based applications during all phases of flight. We look forward to being a part of Southwest's commitment to continually upping the bar."
Capacity Today and In the Future
According to a January 2022 Sandvine Global Internet Phenomena Report, more than two-thirds of today's internet traffic is driven by data-hungry video streaming or social media platforms. Viasat utilizes its current broadband satellite fleet, including ViaSat-1 and Viasat-2, along with its roadmap of satellites - including the revolutionary ViaSat-3 constellation - to meet the ever-increasing demand for data-rich connectivity.
About Viasat
Viasat is a global communications company that believes everyone and everything in the world can be connected. For more than 35 years, Viasat has helped shape how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the world communicate. Today, the Company is developing the ultimate global communications network to power high-quality, secure, affordable, fast connections to impact people's lives anywhere they are—on the ground, in the air or at sea. To learn more about Viasat, visit: www.viasat.com, go to Viasat's Corporate Blog, or follow the Company on social media at: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter or YouTube.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to the safe harbors created under the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements include among others, statements related to Viasat and Southwest Airlines' relationship; the introduction of Viasat's IFC service on Southwest's new aircraft; the enhanced internet experience passengers and crew can expect; the availability, capabilities and performance of the Viasat in-flight internet equipment; the number of aircraft, location of service, and the timing to connect the new Southwest fleet; the ability to direct capacity to demand; the forward compatibility of Viasat's IFC system; the satellites used to provide the service, and the expected global capacity gains that will be provided by future Viasat satellites. Readers are cautioned that actual results could differ materially and adversely from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ include: our ability to successfully implement our business plan for our broadband services on our anticipated timeline or at all; risks associated with the construction, launch and operation of the satellite(s) used to supply these services, including the effect of any anomaly, operational failure or degradation in satellite performance; contractual problems; product defects; manufacturing issues or delays; regulatory issues; changes in relationships with, or the financial condition of, key suppliers; technologies not being developed according to anticipated schedules, or that do not perform according to expectations; and other factors affecting the aviation sector generally. In addition, please refer to the risk factors contained in Viasat's SEC filings available at www.sec.gov, including Viasat's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they are made. Viasat undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements for any reason.
Copyright © 2022 Viasat, Inc. All rights reserved. Viasat, the Viasat logo and the Viasat signal are registered trademarks of Viasat, Inc. All other product or company names mentioned are used for identification purposes only and may be trademarks of their respective owners.
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Carrier Updates on Five-year Plan of Investment and Evolution across Customer Experience; J.D. Power Recognizes Southwest for Highest Customer Satisfaction in North America among Economy Carriers
DALLAS, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV), today awarded the 2022 J.D. Power Award for Highest Customer Satisfaction among Economy carriers in North America, announces next steps in its plan to bring the next generation of Customer Experience in travel with Southwest Airlines®, through more than two billion dollars in planned investments. These initiatives are designed to enhance and simplify Customers' journeys—from booking trips, to traveling through airports, and while inflight—delivering an even more enjoyable, efficient, and productive Customer Experience.
On the ongoing journey to modernize the Customer Experience, Southwest revealed commitments to:
- Bring enhanced WiFi connectivity onboard aircraft;
- Install latest-technology onboard power ports to charge personal devices at every seat;
- Offer larger overhead bins with more space and easier access to carryon items;
- Launch a new fare category with added flexibility and value, Wanna Get Away Plus™;
- Introduce more entertainment options and a wider selection of refreshments in the cabin; and,
- Enable new self-service capabilities to bring elevated ease in doing business with Southwest, benefiting Employees and Customers.
Learn more at Southwest.com/experience.
"You can never stop working to get better, and as our beloved Founder Herb famously said, 'If you rest on your laurels, you'll get a thorn in your butt!' We have a long and proud history of offering Legendary Customer Service and warm Hospitality, and we have bold plans and significant investments to modernize and enhance the Southwest Experience," said Bob Jordan, Chief Executive Officer. "As we continue to welcome back loyal Customers and win new ones, these initiatives, combined with the best People in the industry, support our Purpose of connecting People to what's most important in their lives through friendly, reliable, and low-cost air travel."
Commitment to Connectivity
"Top of our list is giving our Customers reliable connections in the air to those things that are important and accessible to them on the ground," said Ryan Green, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer. "We're investing in our onboard connectivity and bandwidth available to each Customer with upgraded technology that's now installing across our existing fleet, a strategy to diversify our WiFi vendors on upcoming aircraft deliveries, and plugging Southwest Customers into in-seat power to keep them charged while in the air."
- Southwest is upgrading WiFi equipment on its existing fleet with longstanding connectivity provider Anuvu's latest-generation hardware capable of providing a significant improvement in speed and bandwidth up to 10 times the current hardware onboard.
- Plans are for the Anuvu latest-generation hardware to be onboard 50 in-service aircraft by the end of May, with a projected 350 aircraft upgraded by the end of October.
- Testing the upgraded WiFi equipment is now underway on some routes over the western mainland U.S. As part of the test, Southwest is offering free WiFi to all Customers on select flights to understand how the upgraded equipment performs with a large number of Customers using the equipment simultaneously.
- Alongside its relationship with legacy connectivity provider Anuvu, Southwest recently entered into an agreement with industry-leading satellite connectivity provider Viasat to provide high quality internet and live television programming onboard newly delivered aircraft beginning in the fall of this year.
Southwest pioneered gate-to-gate connectivity in 2010, becoming the first major airline in the United States to offer satellite-based connectivity on domestic flights. The first generation technology brought free live TV, streamed on individual devices. The airline continues to heavily invest in its WiFi product aimed to meet Customers' connectivity expectations.
Leaping to the Latest In-Seat Power
Southwest plans to install latest-generation onboard USB A and USB C power ports on every seat in the aircraft, with a space-saving system that will not compromise legroom. The airline plans to bring this new convenience and capability onboard 737 MAX aircraft beginning in early 2023.
"The ability to keep your devices charged while you are connected inflight is a request that we've heard consistently in ongoing conversations with our Customers," said Tony Roach, Vice President of Customer Experience and Customer Relations. "With so much that our Customers love about doing business with Southwest, we're constantly listening to our Employees and our Customers for improvement opportunities, and we're excited to share some additional news and updates on this ongoing work."
Wait…there's more!
- Bin here, bin there: Alongside its famous "Bags Fly Free" promise that provides every Customer onboard a Southwest flight the option to check two bags for free (weight and size limitations apply), the carrier is making room in the cabin for carryon items with larger overhead bins that also bring easier access to store and retrieve luggage onboard. The larger overhead bins will be on aircraft deliveries beginning early next year.
- Online, not in line: New functionality for the carrier's digital platforms and airport kiosks give Customers the ability to handle common requests and help them move more efficiently from curb to gate. By late summer 2022, Customers will be able to purchase Upgraded Boarding A1-A15 positions (when available) on their mobile devices without standing in line at the airport. Also on the horizon, an ability to add lap child travelers when booking online, and the airline recently added lap child check-in at self-service kiosks. Introducing more self-service options builds on the carrier's effort to reduce wait times with improved and simplified online change functionality; recent improvements have reduced the need for Customers to call to make flight changes, and subsequently reduced hold times to allow Southwest Representatives more availability for specialized Hospitality and Customer Service.
- More flexibility takes flight: The carrier's previously announced additional fare, Wanna Get Away Plus, is expected to become available to Customers later this month, bringing a new ability to transfer travel funds1 and to confirm a same-day change2 to an available seat on a different flight between the same origin and destination, without a change in base fare. Southwest also offers a wide variety of accepted payment methods, and provides My Account information in mobile friendly views across the carrier's digital platforms.
- Mixing it up: Adding to an expansive beverage selection featuring a number of alcohol options, additional refreshment offerings will begin this summer with a Bloody Mary Mix, followed by a ready-to-drink cocktail in September, alongside new options of Hard Seltzer, and Rosé.3 Southwest also will enhance its inflight entertainment portal to more than double the number of free movies currently available by end of year and coming late May will update the flight tracker to provide 3-D views that offer aircraft information and customized destination guides based on your flight itinerary.
"We listen to our Customers, and their insights help us deliver on and exceed their expectations," Jordan said. "Behind these commitments stand the legendary People of Southwest Airlines—ready to welcome Customers onboard with warmth, Hospitality, and LUV."
The aforementioned investments were included in the Company's five-year annual targets through 2026 for operating costs and capital spending provided at its Investor Day in December 2021—annual inflation in operating expenses per available seat mile (CASM, or unit costs), excluding fuel, profitsharing, and special items, in the low single digits range, and average annual capital spending of approximately $3.5 billion—and do not change guidance provided in the Company's first quarter 2022 financial release.
Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Specific forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements related to (i) the Company's expectations with respect to enhanced WiFi and other Customer Experience enhancement initiatives; (ii) the Company's expectations regarding expenditures in connection with Customer Experience enhancement initiatives; (iii) the Company's expectations with respect to its new fare category Wanna Get Away Plus; (iv) the Company's plans and expectations with respect to winning new Customers; (v) the Company's fleet plans with respect to updated WiFi, power ports, and bin space; (vi) the Company's expectations regarding Customer self-service capabilities and associated productivity benefits for Company Employees; (vii) the Company's expectations regarding its onboard menu and entertainment options; (viii) the Company's financial and operational outlook, expectations, and projected results of operations, including factors and assumptions underlying the Company's expectations and projections; and (ix) the Company's plans and expectations related to capital spending. These forward-looking statements are based on the Company's current estimates, intentions, beliefs, expectations, goals, strategies, and projections for the future and are not guarantees of future performance. Forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors that are difficult to predict and that could cause actual results to vary materially from those expressed in or indicated by them. Factors include, among others, (i) the Company's dependence on third parties with respect to the Company's initiatives, strategies, expectations, and goals, and the impact on the Company's operations and results of operations of any third party delays or non-performance; (ii) any negative developments related to the COVID-19 pandemic, including, for example, with respect to the duration, spread, severity, or any recurrence of the COVID-19 pandemic or any new variant strains of the underlying virus; the effectiveness, availability, and usage of COVID-19 vaccines; the impact of government mandates, directives, orders, regulations, and other governmental actions related to COVID-19 on the Company's business plans and its ability to retain key Employees; and the extent of the impact of COVID-19 on overall demand for air travel and the Company's related business plans and decisions; (iii) the Company's dependence on its workforce, including its ability to employ sufficient numbers of qualified Employees to effectively and efficiently maintain its operations; (iv) the impact of fears or actual outbreaks of other diseases, extreme or severe weather and natural disasters, actions of competitors, fuel prices, consumer perception, economic conditions, fears of terrorism or war, socio-demographic trends, and other factors beyond the Company's control, on consumer behavior and the Company's results of operations and business decisions, plans, strategies, and results; (v) the Company's ability to timely and effectively implement, transition, and maintain the necessary information technology systems and infrastructure to support its operations and initiatives; (vi) the impact of governmental regulations and other governmental actions on the Company's business plans and operations; and (vii) other factors, as described in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the detailed factors discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021.
1Transferable Flight Credit:
Transferable flight credit allows you to transfer your flight credit to someone else. Both must be Rapid Rewards® Members and only one transfer is permitted. The expiration date is 12 months from the date the ticket was booked. For bookings made through a Southwest® Business channel, there is a limitation to transfer only between employees within the organization.
2Same-Day Change/Same-Day Standby
If there's an open seat on a different flight that departs on the same calendar day as your original flight and it's between the same cities, you can get a seat on the new flight free of airline charges. If there isn't an open seat on this different flight, you can ask a Southwest Gate Agent to add you to the same-day standby list for a flight between the same city pairs that departs on the same calendar day prior to your originally scheduled flight, and you will receive a message if you are cleared on the flight. For both the same-day change and same-day standby benefits, you must change your flight or request to be added to the same-day standby list at least 10 minutes prior to the scheduled departure of your original flight or the no-show policy will apply. Based on the flight status contact preference selected during booking, the message regarding your standby status will be an email or text message with a link to access the boarding pass via the Southwest app, mobile web, or you can visit a Southwest Gate Agent to print off the boarding pass. If there are any government taxes and fees associated with these itinerary changes, you will be required to pay those. Your original boarding position is not guaranteed.
3Food and Beverage
On flights less than 175 miles, food and beverage service will be limited to water only. Customer must be 21 or older to consume alcoholic beverages.
ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO.
Southwest Airlines Co. operates one of the world's most admired and awarded airlines, offering its one-of-a-kind value and Hospitality at 121 airports across 11 countries. More than 50 years after its first flight in 1971, Southwest continues to democratize the sky through friendly, reliable, and low-cost air travel and now carries more air travelers flying nonstop within the United States than any other airline4. Based in Dallas and famous for an Employee-first corporate Culture, Southwest maintains an unprecedented record of no involuntary furloughs or layoffs in its history. By empowering its nearly 59,0005 People to deliver unparalleled Hospitality, the maverick airline cherishes a passionate loyalty among as many as 130 million Customers carried a year. That formula for success brought industry-leading prosperity and 47 consecutive years6 of profitability for Southwest Shareholders (NYSE: LUV). Southwest continues to develop tangible steps toward an environmental sustainability goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, including offering an opportunity for Customers to contribute toward helping Southwest offset its carbon emissions. For more information, please visit Southwest.com/wannaoffsetcarbon. Learn more at Southwest.com/citizenship about how Southwest Airlines leverages a unique legacy and mission to serve communities around the world.
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Fresh off his win at UFC 274, Chandler expands his role with the strength training startup
CHICAGO, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Speede Fitness, a Chicago-area strength training startup that is launching a revolutionary fitness machine in summer 2022, announced that UFC fighter Michael Chandler has become the company's Chief Athletic Officer. In this new role, Chandler will lead the company's recruitment of professional athletes and advise on workout programming.
"At Speede, our athlete partners are not just exceptional competitors, but exceptional human beings," said Dan Mooney, co-founder of Speede. "Michael Chandler is a prime example of that, and we've been blown away by his support and enthusiasm for Speede. It's only natural that he's taking on an expanded role in our company as Chief Athletic Officer."
The announcement comes just days after Chandler's devastating knockout of Tony Ferguson at UFC 274. Chandler's performance earned instant praise from celebrities including Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, fellow fighter Conor McGregor, and UFC president Dana White, who called Chandler's front kick "the most vicious knockout I've ever seen."
Chandler first became involved with Speede Fitness in July 2021, after a scheduled short demo of the company's machine turned into a day-long session in which Chandler engaged Speede's engineers and founders in technical discussions. The fighter immediately signed on as a brand ambassador and has since trained on the machine, spoken at Speede's Super Bowl event in Los Angeles, supported the brand on social media, and helped guide the startup as a member of its advisory board.
"From the very first time I trained on Speede, it made a believer out of me," said Chandler. "It caught me off-guard with how challenging it was and how effective it was. To be able to get such extreme muscle fatigue with so few reps—this is going to be a game-changer for athletes and for anyone who wants to get stronger faster."
The company's new machine, the Speede Challenger, is the first connected fitness machine to combine isotonic, isokinetic, and max eccentric training for an intense, efficient workout that leads to faster strength gains. Other high-profile athletes are equity holders in the company including Justin Fields, Cole Kmet and Jaylon Johnson from the Chicago Bears, Justin Simmons from the Denver Broncos, Marquez Valdes-Scantling from the Kansas City Chiefs, and Mason Plumlee from the Charlotte Hornets.
Chandler becomes Speede's Chief Athletic Officer at a pivotal moment for the company, as it begins a new fundraising round and prepares to introduce its Gamma prototype at the IHRSA fitness convention in Miami in late June.
"Our Speede Movement is growing exponentially and we have more momentum than ever," said Greg Tepas, co-founder of Speede. "With Michael Chandler as our Chief Athletic Officer, we'll continue to build our relationships with athletes, professional teams, and fitness experts. We look forward to unveiling our machine's full capabilities at IHRSA and sharing the power of our eccentric and isokinetic training with more people."
To learn more, visit Speede.fit or contact co-founder Dan Mooney at dan@speede.fit.
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SOURCE Speede | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/speede-fitness-names-ufc-fighter-michael-chandler-chief-athletic-officer/ | 2022-05-11T16:21:06Z |
One hundred fifty years ago, a star was born – St. Luke's Hospital!
BETHLEHEM, Pa., May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- St. Luke's has been a cornerstone of Pennsylvania's Lehigh Valley ever since. The Lehigh Valley's oldest hospital was founded in the spring of 1872 to provide industrial workers, many of them from Bethlehem Steel, with local access to health care, eliminating the long journey to New York or Philadelphia for critical treatment. A century and a half later, St. Luke's continues to honor its commitment to local business and the community – as the Network's iconic star logo shines as bright as ever.
Today, St. Luke's University Health Network, based in Bethlehem, Pa., is the Lehigh Valley's biggest health care system, and it is the one that wins the most awards for quality, service and affordability. A fully integrated, regional, non-profit system of more than 17,000 employees, it provides services at 14 campuses that together operate the biggest network of trauma centers in Pennsylvania. With more than 300 outpatient sites and annual net revenue of $3 billion, the Network's service area includes 11 counties: Lehigh, Northampton, Berks, Bucks, Carbon, Montgomery, Monroe, Schuylkill and Luzerne counties in Pennsylvania and Warren and Hunterdon counties in New Jersey.
Dedicated to advancing medical education, St. Luke's is the preeminent teaching hospital in central-eastern Pennsylvania. In partnership with Temple University, the Network established the Lehigh Valley's first and only four-year medical school campus. It also operates the nation's longest continuously operating School of Nursing, established in 1884, and 40 fully accredited graduate medical educational programs with 419 residents and fellows. In 2022, St. Luke's, a member of the Children's Hospital Association, opened the Lehigh Valley's first and only free-standing facility dedicated entirely to kids.
St. Luke's is the only Lehigh Valley-based health care system to earn Medicare's five-star ratings (the highest) for quality, efficiency and patient satisfaction. It is both a Leapfrog Group and Healthgrades Top Hospital and a Newsweek World's Best Hospital. Three of IBM Watson Health's 100 Top Hospitals are St. Luke's hospitals. The Network's flagship University Hospital has earned the 100 Top Major Teaching Hospital designation from IBM Watson Health nine times total and seven years in a row, including in 2021 when it was identified as THE #1 TEACHING HOSPITAL IN THE COUNTRY. In 2021, IBM Watson Health also named St. Luke's among the 15 Top Health Systems nationally.
About St. Luke's
Founded in 1872, St. Luke's University Health Network is a fully integrated, regional, non-profit network of more than 17,000 employees providing services at 14 campuses and 300+ outpatient sites. With annual net revenue of $3 billion, the Network's service area includes 11 counties in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Dedicated to advancing medical education, St. Luke's is the preeminent teaching hospital in central-eastern Pennsylvania.
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SOURCE St. Luke's University Health Network | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/st-lukes-university-health-networks-150th-anniversary/ | 2022-05-11T16:21:13Z |
BALTIMORE, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- SteelToad, a cybersecurity technology company, announced today that it has achieved the status of CMMC C3PAO (CMMC Third Party Assessment Organization), as designated by the CMMC Accreditation Body. This accreditation authorizes the company to contract with Organizations Seeking Certifications (OSC) and to conduct CMMC appraisals to certify cybersecurity for the Defense Industrial Base (DIB).
"We are very proud of the security framework, CMMC training and gap assessment offerings we have developed as the foundation for this effort", said Dean Rock, CEO and founder of SteelToad. He emphasized, "Integrity is the core of our company and is essential to becoming a C3PAO and supporting the CMMC standards and ecosystem. This process allowed us to refine our organization's cybersecurity standards, not only to meet our internal security objectives, but also to help other companies align with the CMMC model."
CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification) is a set of standards and processes designed to secure the cybersecurity infrastructure within the Defense Industrial Base. Although CMMC, version 2.0, was released in November 2021, CMMC assessments have not yet been approved to commence. Assessments will be necessary to achieve CMMC certification for the 300,000 companies conducting business with the Department of Defense.
In addition to becoming the first HUBZone C3PAO, SteelToad is also the first authorized C3PAO designated in Maryland, keeping with the state's cybersecurity focus and Governor Hogan's description of Maryland as the "cyber capital of America". Andy Cooper, SteelToad Vice President of Technology Solutions stated, "With our extensive experience in cybersecurity, cloud, and software engineering, we bring a unique skill set to CMMC training and assessments. As a technical team, we know it is imperative to build security into every solution, and we are excited about the and opportunity that this range of capability affords us, in helping to secure the Defense Industrial Base."
About SteelToad (www.SteelToad.com).
SteelToad is a cybertechnology services company with focus on both securing technology (software engineering, cloud modernization, cybersecurity, data quality) and securing processes (CMMI training, CMMI appraisals, CMMC training, CMMC Gap Assessments) for our federal, state and commercial customers. SteelToad is a HUBZone business.
Lock it down.
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SOURCE SteelToad | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/steeltoad-leaps-achieves-certification-cmmc-c3pao-organization/ | 2022-05-11T16:21:19Z |
AMES, Iowa, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Summit Carbon Solutions ("Summit"), developer of the world's largest carbon capture and storage project, which will capture and permanently store up to 20 million tons per year of carbon dioxide from dozens of ethanol and other industrial facilities across the Midwestern United States, is pleased to announce the successful completion of its equity fundraising efforts, which have resulted in over $1 billion in total equity commitments.
Along with the $600+ million already raised from prior investors, including Continental Resources, Inc. and Tiger Infrastructure Partners, Summit has secured commitments of an additional $400+ million, including $300 million from TPG Rise Climate, the dedicated climate investing strategy of TPG's global impact investing platform TPG Rise.
These commitments and the conclusion of Summit's fundraise come on the heels of its recent announcement of its joint venture with Minnkota Power Cooperative that will provide Summit access to the largest fully permitted permanent carbon dioxide storage site in the United States. Together with the storage sites Summit is developing independently, the joint venture will provide Summit with total storage capacity of approximately 1.2 billion tons of carbon dioxide.
"Summit Carbon Solutions continues to make great strides in the development of its transformational decarbonization project, and the completion of this fundraise ensures we will be well capitalized to deliver for all our stakeholders. We are excited to announce TPG Rise Climate's investment and to welcome them as partners in Summit Carbon Solutions," said Bruce Rastetter, CEO of Summit Agricultural Group. "We have been highly selective with our capital raise by searching for partners who share our vision and who bring unique abilities to add value to the company. TPG Rise Climate undoubtedly meets those standards, and we are delighted to have them among our diverse group of strategic partners."
"We could not be more pleased to have TPG Rise Climate as an investor in Summit Carbon Solutions. From the outset, we always knew that successfully executing this project would require expertise and perspective from a wide variety of industries, including agriculture, biofuels, infrastructure, and energy, and we're proud to say that Summit is joined by world class partners and investors across that spectrum, now including TPG Rise Climate," said Justin Kirchhoff, President of Summit Ag Investors. "Summit Carbon Solutions will make a substantial environmental, social, and economic impact across its project footprint, and we look forward to working with the team at TPG Rise to deliver on that promise."
"The global fight against climate change requires an all-of-the-above approach to decarbonization and low carbon biofuels can play an increasing role," said Hank Paulson, Executive Chairman of TPG Rise Climate and former U.S. Treasury Secretary. "The United States can be a global leader in jump-starting the carbon capture and sequestration industry with innovative companies like Summit Carbon Solutions. We are pleased to be working with the team at Summit on this groundbreaking endeavor and look forward to the opportunities it will create."
"A project of this size and complexity requires both extensive expertise in infrastructure and project development as well as substantial impact-driven capital. We are proud to join Summit Carbon Solutions and other high-caliber investors to bring TPG Rise Climate's unique skillset to this ambitious, first-of-its kind project," said Mike Stone, Chief Investment Officer of TPG Rise.
Summit Carbon Solutions seeks to lower greenhouse gas emissions by connecting industrial facilities via strategic infrastructure to store carbon dioxide safely and permanently in the Midwestern United States. For more information, visit: www.SummitCarbonSolutions.com.
About TPG Rise Climate
TPG Rise Climate is the dedicated climate investing strategy of TPG's global impact investing platform TPG Rise. TPG Rise Climate pursues climate-related investments that benefit from the diverse skills of TPG's investing professionals, the strategic relationships developed across TPG's existing portfolio of climate-focused companies, and a global network of executives and advisors. The fund takes a broad-based sector approach to investment types, from growth equity to value-added infrastructure, and focuses on five climate sub-sectors: clean energy and storage, enabling solutions, decarbonized transport, greening industrials, and agriculture & natural solutions. Jim Coulter, TPG Founding Partner and Executive Chairman, serves as Managing Partner of TPG Rise Climate. Former U.S. Treasury Secretary Hank Paulson serves as TPG Rise Climate's Executive Chairman. For more information, please visit www.therisefund.com/tpgriseclimate
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SOURCE Summit Carbon Solutions | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/summit-carbon-solutions-announces-successful-completion-1-billion-equity-raise-following-300-million-investment-tpg-rise-climate/ | 2022-05-11T16:21:26Z |
Randa will lead the organization to further power the future of quality recruitment for organizations across the globe
NEW YORK and LONDON, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Symphony Talent, a global leader in recruitment marketing technology, today announced the appointment of Kermit Randa as its new Chief Executive Officer. Randa joins Symphony Talent as it enters its next phase of growth and continues to enable its customers to deliver exceptional recruiting experiences – at speed and scale.
Randa succeeds former CEO Roopesh Nair, who will assume a new role as the company's Chief Product Officer. In his new position, Nair will leverage his extensive product engineering expertise to continue driving innovation that addresses the evolving needs facing time- and attention- acquisition teams.
"As the Great Resignation evolves to the Great Reimagination, where organizations are rethinking the meaning of jobs, employees, and flex work, it's critical that we empower them with successful strategies and innovative tools so they can succeed now and in the future," said Randa. "Our people, technology and data-driven insights are uniquely positioned to deliver customer-centric solutions that address the challenges that CEOs, CHROs and their talent acquisition teams contend with today. It's energizing to join an organization with a progressive vision, and I look forward to helping realize this vision."
"Kermit's highly accomplished background as an executive leader gives us much to be excited about for the future of Symphony Talent," said Sunit Mukherjee, Managing Director at Symphony Technology Group (STG), the private equity firm backing the company. "Symphony Talent is attuned to the challenges that talent recruitment teams face around the world. With Kermit onboard, and partnering with Roopesh, we are confident that Symphony Talent will continue to grow its loyal customer base exponentially and further evolve its already impressive product portfolio."
With over 30 years of experience leading SaaS-based companies through periods of innovation and transformation Randa's expertise includes software and business intelligence, organizational growth and innovation, and strategic partnership cultivation. Most recently, Randa was CEO of Syntellis Performance Solutions where he and his team significantly advanced the business through innovation, acquisitions, and operational enhancements. Prior to that, he served as CEO of PeopleAdmin, a management SaaS company, and chief growth officer at Waystar .
As a recognized team builder, Randa's vision, and ability to help companies realize significant top-line growth and bottom-line results, while consistently delivering an exceptional customer experience, make him an ideal leader for Symphony Talent.
About Symphony Talent
Symphony Talent is a recruitment marketing technology company that helps talent acquisition teams automate tasks and empower innovative candidate interactions. Symphony Talent's award-winning EVP strategy, employer brand campaigns, career site design and recruitment technology support customers across the globe, including the world's leading brands. Visit symphonytalent.com to learn more.
About Symphony Technology Group
STG is the private equity partner to market-leading companies in data, software, and analytics. The firm brings expertise, flexibility, and resources to build strategic value and unlock the potential of innovative companies. Partnering to build customer-centric, market-winning portfolio companies, STG creates sustainable foundations for growth that bring value to all existing and future stakeholders. The firm is dedicated to transforming and building outstanding technology companies in partnership with world-class management teams. STG's expansive portfolio has consisted of more than 35 global companies. For more information, please visit www.stgpartners.com.
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SOURCE Symphony Talent | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/symphony-talent-appoints-new-ceo-kermit-randa-accelerate-growth-drive-expansion/ | 2022-05-11T16:21:33Z |
NEW YORK, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- InvestorsObserver issues critical PriceWatch Alerts for XCUR, VRM, RDBX, AMRS, and PLUG.
To see how InvestorsObserver's proprietary scoring system rates these stocks, view the InvestorsObserver's PriceWatch Alert by selecting the corresponding link.
- XCUR: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-stocks-lp-2/?symbol=XCUR&prnumber=051120226
- VRM: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-stocks-lp-2/?symbol=VRM&prnumber=051120226
- RDBX: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-stocks-lp-2/?symbol=RDBX&prnumber=051120226
- AMRS: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-stocks-lp-2/?symbol=AMRS&prnumber=051120226
- PLUG: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-stocks-lp-2/?symbol=PLUG&prnumber=051120226
(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.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/thinking-about-buying-stock-exicure-vroom-redbox-amyris-or-plug-power/ | 2022-05-11T16:21:39Z |
NEW YORK, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- InvestorsObserver issues critical PriceWatch Alerts for RBLX, SOFI, U, BBIG, and ZNGA.
To see how InvestorsObserver's proprietary scoring system rates these stocks, view the InvestorsObserver's PriceWatch Alert by selecting the corresponding link.
- RBLX: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-stocks-lp-2/?symbol=RBLX&prnumber=051120225
- SOFI: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-stocks-lp-2/?symbol=SOFI&prnumber=051120225
- U: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-stocks-lp-2/?symbol=U&prnumber=051120225
- BBIG: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-stocks-lp-2/?symbol=BBIG&prnumber=051120225
- ZNGA: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-stocks-lp-2/?symbol=ZNGA&prnumber=051120225
(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.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/thinking-about-buying-stock-roblox-sofi-technologies-unity-software-vinco-ventures-or-zynga/ | 2022-05-11T16:21:46Z |
NEW YORK, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- InvestorsObserver issues critical PriceWatch Alerts for COIN, UPST, TTD, EA, and AAPL.
Click a link below then choose between in-depth options trade idea report or a stock score report.
Options Report – Ideal trade ideas on up to seven different options trading strategies. The report shows all vital aspects of each option trade idea for each stock.
Stock Report - Measures a stock's suitability for investment with a proprietary scoring system combining short and long-term technical factors with Wall Street's opinion including a 12-month price forecast.
- COIN: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-options-lp-2/?symbol=COIN&prnumber=051120227
- UPST: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-options-lp-2/?symbol=UPST&prnumber=051120227
- TTD: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-options-lp-2/?symbol=TTD&prnumber=051120227
- EA: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-options-lp-2/?symbol=EA&prnumber=051120227
- AAPL: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-options-lp-2/?symbol=AAPL&prnumber=051120227
(Note: You may have to copy this link into your browser then press the [ENTER] key.)
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.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/thinking-about-trading-options-or-stock-coinbase-global-upstart-trade-desk-electronic-arts-or-apple/ | 2022-05-11T16:21:52Z |
CHINO, Calif. , May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Tianma, a leading global manufacturer of flat panel displays, will be constructing a new G8.6 Panel Production Line ("TM19") in Xiamen, Fujian, China. With an investment of RMB 33 Billion ($5.2B), the new plant is expected to produce 120k sheets per month using a-Si technologies.
Construction will begin in the 2nd half of 2022, and Tianma projects that the line will start mass production (phase 1) in the second half of 2024. TM19 will integrate a variety of advanced processes and technologies (free-form cutting, narrow border, low power consumption, embedded integrated touch, high refresh rate, etc.), to meet the requirements for large-size panels in the Automotive, IT, Industrial and other markets.
Production at TM19 will focus on the Automotive, IT (Tablet PC, Laptop, Monitor, etc.) and Industrial Display markets, embracing the trend for larger screen displays. This investment will strengthen and expand Tianma's product portfolio, and significantly increase the company's production capacity.
"The new TM19 line will allow Tianma to better serve customers worldwide, utilizing our extensive technology portfolio, as well as advanced, multi-generational production lines and deep reserve of talent," said Charles Peng, the Chairman of Tianma Microelectronics Co. Ltd. "Further, the facility embodies our '2+1+N' strategy: Two core markets (Smart Mobile and Automotive); one key growth market (IT); and value-added business growth with organic expansion (Industrial, Medical and HMI products)."
To address the growing Automotive market trends, Tianma will continue to focus on multi-screens, large panel, higher resolution, display integration, and other in-vehicle performance improvements. Displays continue to increase in size, and it is expected that the share of Automotive Displays of ten inches and above will reach 45% in 2028.
TM19 production will also serve the needs of the high-end IT and Gaming markets, which have exploded in recent years. This growth has bolstered the demand for increased technical requirements such as narrow frame, low power consumption, high refresh rate, etc., and with the addition of TM19, Tianma will be able to provide the full range of product lines, including the company's leading advantage in LTPS technology.
For more information, contact Tianma America, Inc., 13949 Central Ave., Chino, CA 91710. 909-590-5833. info@tianma.com; www.tianma.com.
Infographic: https://en.tianma.com/20221/38849.jhtml
Tianma, a leading global manufacturer of flat panel displays, will be constructing a new G8.6 Panel Production Line ("TM19") in Xiamen, Fujian, China. Photo: Tianma America, Inc.
About Tianma America, Inc.
Tianma America (TMA) is the leading provider of small- to medium-size display solutions to the Americas market utilizing advanced technologies and manufacturing resources of the Tianma Group Companies, which includes Tianma Micro-electronics (Shenzhen and Shanghai) and Tianma Japan, Ltd. (formerly known as NLT Technologies Ltd.), as well as manufacturing locations in Chengdu, Wuhan, Xiamen, Shenzhen and Shanghai China. Tianma America technologies can be found in smartphones, tablet PCs, industrial and medical instrumentation, wearables, home automation, household appliances, office equipment, and automotive and rear seat entertainment devices. Additional applications include test and measurement systems, instrumentation equipment, point-of-sale and ATM systems, gaming systems, global positioning systems, radio-frequency identification devices and barcode scanners.
Tianma America's technology portfolio comprises TFT, LTPS, Oxide-TFT, AM-OLED, flexible, transparent, 3D, PCAP and In-cell/On-cell integrated touch. With a network of best-in-class distributors and value-added partners, Tianma America provides complete display module solutions for a broad base of customers and applications.
The content in this press release, including, but not limited to, product prices and specifications, is based on the information as of the date indicated on the document, but may be subject to change without prior notice.
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SOURCE Tianma | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/tianma-invests-new-g86-production-line/ | 2022-05-11T16:21:59Z |
The Convention, Free and Open To The Public, Will Take Place at Center415 in New York City on July 23 and Convene Today's Leading Social Justice Activists, Entertainers, Entrepreneurs, Experts, Organizations and More
NEW YORK, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the United Justice Coalition (UJC) announced that it will host a first-of-its-kind, social justice summit at Center415 in New York City on July 23 that will convene the country's leading activists, entertainers, attorneys, entrepreneurs, professors, experts, media personalities, organizations and more together to discuss combating social and racial injustice.
The UJC is a think-tank of experts from different industries that informally came together in 2019 to share resources, information, ideas and support in an attempt to align on strategic ways to address systemic injustice across America. Over the years, they have worked together behind-the-scenes to amplify critical issues, develop and advance bipartisan legislation, regulations and policies and leverage support for on-the-ground organizations across the country.
Now, they are joining forces to launch this inaugural summit to bring increased awareness and analysis to critical topics such as criminal justice reform, mental wellness, public safety, etc.
UJC's founding advisory board members include Team ROC (the philanthropic division of Roc Nation), Charlamagne tha God, attorney Ben Crump, Dream Corps founder Van Jones, Until Freedom co-founder Tamika Mallory, Michael Eric Dyson, Marcia Dyson, Gayle King, attorney Angela Rye, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Vista Equity Partners Robert F. Smith, Until Freedom co-founder Mysonne, The Ladies of Hope Ministries founder and CEO Topeka K. Sam, attorney S. Lee Merritt, NFL Players Association Assistant Executive Director of External Affairs George Atallah, Color of Change President Rashad Robinson, ABFE CEO Susan Taylor Batten, Fair Trials Global CEO Norman Reimer, NACDL Executive Director Lisa Wayne, NACDL Director of Law Enforcement Accountability Julie Ciccolini, Deputy Mayor for Equity, Health and Human Services at City of Baltimore Faith Leach, REFORM Alliance Chief of Staff and Gathering for Justice CEO Carmen Perez, REFORM Alliance Chief Advocacy Officer Jessica Jackson, attorney Alex Spiro, Innocence Project Co-founder Barry Scheck, Innocence Project Director of Policy Rebecca Brown, McKinsey & Company's executive Shelley Stewart III, attorney Jordan Siev, LAVA Media CEO and founding board member, Innocence Project Jason Flom, attorney Joshua Dubin, media executive KC Fox, attorney Cynthia Conti-Cook, attorney Whitney Tymas, attorney Jonathan S. Abady and attorney Bradley Bridge.
The coalition is also made up of family members whose loved ones were tragically shot and killed by police officers, including Danroy Henry Sr. and Angella Henry (parents of DJ Henry and founders of DJ Henry Dream Fund), Michelle Kenney (mother of Antwon Rose II and founder of Antwon Rose II Foundation), Allisa Findley (sister of Botham Jean and president of Botham Jean Foundation) and Tiffany Crutcher (sister of Terence Crutcher and executive director of Terence Crutcher Foundation).
"The United Justice Coalition started as an informal meeting of the minds, but it has quickly evolved into a more purposeful initiative to create change in our communities," Team ROC and UJC founding member Dania Diaz said. "Our goal for this summit is to spark discussion and collaboration and take a solution-oriented approach to reforming America's antiquated policies. At the end of the day, we are all bonded by one common goal – to eradicate injustice."
In the coming weeks, the coalition will announce guest speakers and organizations that will participate in the panel discussions, networking opportunities and keynote sessions. The UJC event will also be open to the public.
If you're interested in learning more about the UJC and the forthcoming summit, please visit https://www.unitedjusticecoalition.com/ujc-summit.
About the United Justice Coalition
The United Justice Coalition (UJC) is a charitable organization that works across disciplines to raise awareness around key social justice issues and the need for criminal justice reform. The group is made up of an esteemed array of expert advisors that come together to strategically share resources, information and ideas to address systemic injustice across America and unify communities. The UJC is committed to amplifying critical issues, leveraging support for on-the-ground advocacy and social justice organizations and advancing just legislation and policies.
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SOURCE Team ROC; United Justice Coalition | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/united-justice-coalition-host-first-of-its-kind-social-justice-summit-aimed-combating-injustice-unifying-communities-amp-leveraging-support-organizations-across-country/ | 2022-05-11T16:22:07Z |
Enlivant is honored to receive the highest number of recognitions in the Best Assisted Living category
CHICAGO, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Enlivant is proud to announce 117 communities were recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a 2022-23 Best Senior Living Community in the categories of Best Assisted Living and Best Memory Care. Enlivant has the highest number of recognitions in the Best Assisted Living category reinforcing their leadership in the industry and commitment to helping seniors thrive.
U.S. News awards the designation of Best Senior Living only to those communities that satisfy U.S. News's objective statistical assessment of each senior living community's performance from consumer satisfaction surveys administered between March 2021 and February 2022, reflecting the viewpoints of more than 200,000 current residents and family members of residents living in thousands of senior living communities nationwide.
"We are honored and proud to have 117 communities named to this inaugural list and to receive the highest number of recognitions in the Best Assisted Living category," said Dan Guill, CEO of Enlivant. "This feedback from residents and family members acknowledges our team's hard work and dedication to our mission of enriching lives through meaningful relationships and vibrant communities."
The inaugural U.S. News Best Senior Living ratings and profiles offer comprehensive information and exclusive analysis of consumer satisfaction data evaluating such factors as community & activity, food & dining, caregiving, and management & staff for nearly 2,500 communities in the continental U.S. and Hawaii. For more than 30 years, U.S. News has served the American public as an unbiased arbiter of quality across a variety of important choices. Whether picking a college, selecting a hospital or moving to a nursing home, consumers go to U.S. News to research and make consequential life decisions.
Enlivant recently became the first senior living organization to achieve the WELL Health-Safety rating for its entire portfolio, recognizing their ongoing commitment to support the health and safety of everyone who walks through their doors.
For more information behind the data analyzed in the U.S. News ratings for Senior Living, please refer to the methodology.
To view the 117 communities who were recognized, visit www.enlivant.com.
About Enlivant
Since 1981, Enlivant has delivered a pioneering approach to senior living designed to give their residents a supportive, stimulating environment where they thrive in mind, body, and soul. With more than 200 communities across the United States and more than 7000 residents, the company strives to be the nation's most trusted senior living provider. Enlivant is a certified "Great Places to Work" for three years in a row and is the first senior living portfolio to earn the WELL Health-Safety Rating, recognizing their ongoing commitment to support the health and safety of everyone who walks through their doors. Learn more at www.enlivant.com.
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.
Media contact: Amanda Pollard, apollard@tellyourstoryinc.com, 312-914-4417
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SOURCE Enlivant | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/us-news-amp-world-report-names-117-enlivant-communities-best-senior-living-2022-2023-ratings/ | 2022-05-11T16:22:14Z |
PITTSBURGH, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The United Steelworkers union (USW) today strongly condemned the May 4 arrest of Youn Taeg-gun, first vice president of the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU), who was detained for his leading role in organizing a general strike on October 20, 2021.
Youn's arrest is particularly outrageous given that International Labor Organization (ILO) Conventions 87, protecting freedom of association and the right to organize, and 98, protecting the right to organize and collective bargaining, entered into force in the Republic of Korea on April 20.
Youn led the strike in part because at the time, KCTU president Yang Kyeung-soo was in detention on similar spurious charges. Like President Yang before him, Youn has been charged with violation of the Infectious Disease Control Act on Demonstration and Assembly, despite the KCTU's proper observance of COVID-19 protocols.
The strike took place shortly after representatives of the USW, UAW and AFL-CIO visited the Korean embassy in Washington D.C., to demand Yang's freedom. The USW also raised the arrest of President Yang and the interrogation of Vice President Youn during the meeting of the U.S.- Korea Free Trade Agreement Labor Council on April 26.
Vice President Youn's arrest, in the context of current discussions on the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework, this week's ASEAN-US Special Summit and President Biden's upcoming visit to South Korea, can only be seen as an expression of the Korean government's intention to disregard fundamental labor rights and international conventions.
The USW calls on the Korean government to openly adhere to these ILO conventions by releasing Youn and ending police harassment of trade unionists for engaging in legitimate union activity.
The USW represents 850,000 workers employed in metals, mining, pulp and paper, rubber, chemicals, glass, auto supply and the energy-producing industries, along with a growing number of workers in health care, public sector, higher education, tech and service occupations.
Contact: Ben Davis, 412-562-2501, bdavis@usw.org
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SOURCE United Steelworkers (USW) | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/usw-condemns-arrest-korean-labor-leader/ | 2022-05-11T16:22:21Z |
LOS ANGELES, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Law Offices of Frank R. Cruz announces that investors with substantial losses have opportunity to lead the securities fraud class action lawsuit against Volta Inc. ("Volta" or the "Company") (NYSE: VLTA).
Class Period: August 2, 2021 – March 28, 2022
Lead Plaintiff Deadline: May 31, 2022
If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate.
The complaint filed alleges that, throughout the Class Period, Defendants failed to disclose to investors: (1) that Volta had improperly accounted for restricted stock units issued in connection with the Business Combination; (2) that, as a result, the Company had understated its net loss for third quarter 2021; (3) that there were material weaknesses in the Company's internal control over financial reporting that resulted in a material error; (4) that, as a result of the foregoing, the Company would restate its financial statements; (5) that, as a result of the foregoing, Legacy Volta's founders would imminently exit the Company; (6) that, as a result, the Company's financial results would be adversely impacted; and (7) that, as a result of the foregoing, Defendants' positive statements about the Company's business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis.
Follow us for updates on Twitter: twitter.com/FRC_LAW.
To be a member of the class action you need not take any action at this time; you may retain counsel of your choice or take no action and remain an absent member of the class action. If you wish to learn more about this class action, or if you have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to the pending class action lawsuit, please contact Frank R. Cruz, of The Law Offices of Frank R. Cruz, 1999 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1100, Los Angeles, California 90067 at 310-914-5007, by email to info@frankcruzlaw.com, or visit our website at www.frankcruzlaw.com. If you inquire by email please include your mailing address, telephone number, and number of shares purchased.
This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules.
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SOURCE The Law Offices of Frank R. Cruz, Los Angeles | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/vlta-investors-have-opportunity-lead-volta-inc-securities-fraud-lawsuit/ | 2022-05-11T16:22:28Z |
WILMINGTON, Del., May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Wilmington Trust, a leader in wealth management and corporate and institutional services, said today that Terisa Heine has been hired as a senior wealth fiduciary advisor in its North Palm Beach, Florida office.
In her new role, Heine will be responsible for managing the ongoing fiduciary needs of significant personal trust clients throughout Florida. She helps to ensure that each trust is administered in accordance with its specific provisions and that trusts' terms are carried out with the utmost fiduciary oversight.
Heine's hire is one of many that Wilmington Trust has recently announced across its business units. The firm has also committed to add a significant number of new professionals, broadening its expertise, and will be doubling the number of client-facing colleagues over the next two years.
"Welcoming Terisa to Florida's growing team further strengthens the growth we are aiming for to better serve clients," said Ted Brown, wealth regional executive for Wilmington Trust. "Having a Palm Beach local like Terisa on our team speaks to our team's commitment to the local community."
Prior to joining Wilmington Trust, Heine served as a senior fiduciary advisor at Regions Private Wealth Management and Wells Fargo Private Bank. She has more than three decades of wealth management experience.
"Bringing my experience to Wilmington Trust is an exciting opportunity, and I look forward to providing our clients with the excellent service they've come to expect from Wilmington Trust," says Heine.
Heine is a graduate of the Florida Trust and Wealth Management School and is a Certified Trust and Financial Advisor (CTFA) and an Accredited Asset Management Specialist (AAMS). She is a member of the Palm Beach County Estate Planning Council.
ABOUT WILMINGTON TRUST
Wilmington Trust's Wealth Management offers a wide array of personal trust, planning, fiduciary, asset management, private banking, and family office services designed to help high-net-worth individuals and families grow, preserve, and transfer wealth. Wilmington Trust focuses on serving families with whom it can build long-term relationships, many of which span multiple generations.
Wilmington Trust also provides Corporate and Institutional Services for clients around the world.
Wilmington Trust has clients in all 50 states and numerous countries, with offices throughout the United States and internationally in London, Dublin, Paris, and Frankfurt. For more information, visit www.wilmingtontrust.com.
MEDIA CONTACT: Pat Fitzgibbons, Senior Public Relations Manager, Wilmington Trust (Pfitzgibbons@mtb.com)
Wilmington Trust is a registered service mark used in connection with various fiduciary and non-fiduciary services offered by certain subsidiaries of M&T Bank Corporation including, but not limited to, Manufacturers & Traders Trust Company (M&T Bank), Wilmington Trust Company (WTC) operating in Delaware only, Wilmington Trust, N.A. (WTNA), Wilmington Trust Investment Advisors, Inc. (WTIA), Wilmington Funds Management Corporation (WFMC), and Wilmington Trust Investment Management, LLC (WTIM). Such services include trustee, custodial, agency, investment management, and othis services. International corporate and institutional services are offered through M&T Bank Corporation's international subsidiaries. Loans, credit cards, retail and business deposits, and othis business and personal banking services and products are offered by M&T Bank, member FDIC.
This publication is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as an offer or solicitation for the sale of any financial product. Investors should seek financial advice regarding the suitability of investment strategies based on their objectives, financial situations, and particular needs.
Investments: • Are NOT FDIC Insured • Have NO Bank Guarantee • May Lose Value
©2022 M&T Bank Corporation and its affiliates and subsidiaries. All rights reserved.
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SOURCE Wilmington Trust | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/wilmington-trust-adds-terisa-heine-senior-wealth-fiduciary-advisor-palm-beach-office/ | 2022-05-11T16:22:37Z |
High-Profile Event Launches Collaboration to Lift Voices and Raise Critical Awareness
GREENVILLE, S.C., May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- With its impending return after a 10-year hiatus, How Sweet The Sound is poised to electrify the gospel music industry on June 4th 2022, at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina, as it selects the best gospel choir, soloist, and dance performance. The live, in-person gospel music competition also marks the start of a multi-dimensional partnership with the Ad Council on their Sound It Out campaign – an initiative to help parents and caregivers discuss mental health with their children.
The collaboration between the Ad Council and How Sweet The Sound seeks to encourage and equip people in the Black community to have more conversations about their emotional wellbeing, which has been further impacted by the pandemic. Black parents more often than white parents have reported that COVID-19 has negatively impacted their children's education, their ability to care for their children and their relationships with family members.[1]
How Sweet The Sound and the Sound It Out campaign both showcase the unifying role music can play in bringing people together. Their partnership helps empower parents through music, using it as a powerful tool to start conversations with kids about their emotional wellbeing. The Sound It Out campaign is focused on showing how music can be used to explore difficult emotions and experiences with middle schoolers (ages 10-14), with a particular emphasis on reaching students through parents and caregivers. Sound It Out is a joint effort of the Ad Council and Pivotal Ventures, an investment and incubation company created by philanthropist Melinda French Gates.
"In the faith-based community, we often shy away from talking about or dealing with mental health issues, and I hope this partnership will enable us to begin normalizing discussions around the subject," said Nathanael Brown, an award-winning choral director, saxophonist, and CEO of Gentle Giant Music Ministries, which owns the How Sweet The Sound brand.
"Gospel music is a wonderful example of what the Sound It Out campaign is all about: music's power to connect us to our emotions and to one another," said Sherry Thompson, Mental Health Campaign Coalition Lead, the Ad Council. "We're thrilled to partner with How Sweet The Sound to help raise awareness of the importance of mental wellness in the Black community, while providing valuable tools and resources to help families have more open and honest conversations about emotional wellbeing."
In addition to announcing the new collaboration, How Sweet The Sound recently released its slate of celebrity judges. They include Grammy Award winner and pastor, Hezekiah Walker; Dove Award winner and Grammy nominated artist, actress and author Jekalyn Carr; renowned gospel choir director and Stellar Award winner Ricky Dillard; and national Billboard chart-topping choir director and syndicated radio host J.J. Hairston. The judges, along with How Sweet The Sound's host, Grammy Award-winning song writer and record producer Donald Lawrence, will perform live at the event.
Youth and young adult choirs from across the United States can now enter the How Sweet The Sound Junior competition. Four finalists will perform live at the How Sweet The Sound pre-show, competing for a $1,000 cash prize. More information about this exciting youth competition is available here.
Tickets for How Sweet The Sound are available at Ticketmaster or Bon Secours Wellness Arena.
ABOUT HOW SWEET THE SOUND
How Sweet The Sound is a national gospel music competition tour that celebrates the history and sound of gospel music and dance throughout the communities of America. Founded in 2007 with the sponsorship of Verizon, How Sweet The Sound relaunched in 2022 under the new ownership of Gentle Giant Music Ministries. Follow How Sweet The Sound communities on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok.
ABOUT SOUND IT OUT
Sound It Out is a national campaign that uses the power and soul of music to help parents and caregivers better support their middle schooler's emotional wellness. Created by the Ad Council, in partnership with Pivotal Ventures and a coalition of organizations, the campaign delivers exclusive new music from some of today's brightest stars and worked alongside a panel of expert advisors to ensure the work is always culturally competent and relevant.
ABOUT THE AD COUNCIL
The Ad Council has a long history of creating life-saving public service communications in times of national crisis, starting in the organization's earliest days during World War II to September 11th and natural disasters like Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Sandy and, most recently, leading the industry's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Its deep relationships with media outlets, the creative community, issue experts and government leaders make the organization uniquely poised to quickly distribute life-saving impactful information to millions of Americans.
The Ad Council is where creativity and causes converge. The non-profit organization brings together the most creative minds in advertising, media, technology, and marketing to address many of the nation's most important causes. The Ad Council has created many of the most iconic campaigns in advertising history. Friends Don't Let Friends Drive Drunk. Smokey Bear. Love Has No Labels.
The Ad Council's innovative social good campaigns raise awareness, inspire action and save lives. To learn more, visit AdCouncil.org, follow the Ad Council's communities on Facebook and Twitter, and view the creative on YouTube.
Media Contact: Michael L. Miller
Michael Miller PR for How Sweet The Sound
(310) 890-7819 or (323) 347.7976 Ext. 0001
Michael@MichaelMillerPR.com
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SOURCE How Sweet The Sound | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/with-new-partnership-gospel-music-competition-how-sweet-sound-highlights-mental-health-communities-color/ | 2022-05-11T16:22:44Z |
ROSEMONT, Ill., May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The connection between winemaking and orthopedic surgery seems worlds apart. However, both are brought together by sharing staggering statistics when it comes to diversity and inclusion. According to the Women Winemakers of California and Beyond Organization, only 14% of all 4,200 wineries in California reported a woman as their lead winemaker in 2020. Similarly, in orthopedics, the underrepresentation of women is even more disparaging, with the Association of American Medical College's 2020 Physician Specialty Data Report finding only 5.8% of all practicing Orthopedic Surgeons in the United States to be female – the lowest representation of women in all medical specialties.
To address this issue and influence great change requires trailblazers, innovators and charismatic leaders to unite and support each other. The Arthroscopy Association of North America (AANA) has made diversity and inclusion a top priority by launching several initiatives to ensure a welcoming environment and encourage all underrepresented minorities in medicine to consider a career path in orthopedics. As the organization makes its way to San Francisco, California for its annual meeting, it seemed like a unique opportunity to bring together two industries, with common goals, to make change happen.
The female founders and leaders behind coveted wines that have partnered with AANA are noteworthy to say the least. Screaming Eagle was founded in 1992 by Jean Phillips, a Napa-based businesswoman whose idea to make a Cabernet from a tiny block of grapes transformed into a critically acclaimed delicacy. Celia Welch of the legendary Scarecrow wine was recently inducted into the Winemaker's Hall of Fame. Ann Colgin, founder of the Colgin Cellars, and Director of Winemaking Allison Tauziet work closely together to create a limited yet prestigious Napa Valley red wine that is extremely rare to come by. Vine Hill Ranch winemaker, Francoise Peschon, as a winemaker at Araujo Estate for over 20 years, was named 2019 Winemaker of the Year by the San Francisco Chronicle. Beth Novak Milliken, president and CEO of Spottswoode Estate Vineyard & Winery, played a key role in establishing the vineyard as one of the world's great winegrowing sites and one of Napa Valley's most iconic, well-respected wineries. Samantha Rudd not only serves as vintner for Rudd Estate but is also the owner of the acclaimed Press Steakhouse in St. Helena, California. These women achieved resounding success, whether through the creation of 100-point wines or establishing themselves as the best in their craft, through their unwavering determination to be at the top.
"I have always been a strong believer in leading by example," Ms. Novak Milliken says. "I have a deep respect for organizations that pride themselves on doing the same. As women, we are often handed this stereotypical bias that prevents us from believing that we can lead and succeed. It's my hope that with more women stepping into leadership roles, we can eventually put these types of biases to rest."
The importance of diversity-first initiatives is a commitment that both AANA and the wine industry share. This past March, AANA held its first-ever joint Specialty Day program with the Ruth Jackson Orthopedic Society (RJOS) to bring attention to the long-standing gender disparity in orthopedics, in addition to other diversity and inclusivity initiatives spearheaded by current AANA President Mark H. Getelman, M.D. Likewise, the wine industry pledged in 2020 to improve upon its underrepresentation of marginalized groups within all of its sectors, including women. Over the last two years, the wine industry has been able to make tremendous strides towards diversity and inclusivity, including reexamining tasting grid standards of the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) in addition to involving more women in professional and leadership positions.
"One of the cornerstones of my presidential commitment is ensuring that AANA is at the forefront of improving diversity and inclusion within orthopedics," Dr. Getelman explains. "Coveted wines that are produced by the best female winemakers in the world will be offered during this superb opportunity that raises awareness towards these long-standing disparities."
These female leaders in the winemaking business who are truly the "best of the best" in their craft will be donating their legendary wines to a true wine enthusiast's fundraising event hosted by AANA. Acclaimed female winemakers and their donations of fine wines directly support AANA's diversity-first initiative to encourage more women to enter the field of orthopedics.
The fundraising event's organizer Jason L. Dragoo, M.D., an AANA surgeon, team physician for the NBA's Denver Nuggets and avid wine collector, is thankful for this opportunity to advocate for change on AANA's behalf.
"Growing up in Napa Valley, I've always respected wineries that achieve success by producing great wines year after year and appreciate that many of these wineries now have women at their helms," says Dr. Dragoo. "I am truly thankful to AANA for recognizing this gender discrepancy and being an advocate for change, as well as the wine industry for their tremendous strides in promoting diversity."
The Best of the Best event will be held at Kokkari Estiatorio in San Francisco on May 19th at 8 p.m. Looking to attend this prestigious event in support of women in orthopedics? Purchase tickets today!
AANA is an international professional organization of more than 6,000 Orthopedic Surgeons and other medical professionals who are committed to advancing the field of minimally invasive orthopedic surgery to improve patient outcomes through education, research and advancement.
Media Contact:
Christine Nogal, M.B.A., CAE
Vice President of Marketing & Operations, Arthroscopy Association of North America
(847) 993-2069
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SOURCE Arthroscopy Association of North America | https://www.whsv.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/world-renowned-female-winemakers-support-women-orthopedics-initiative/ | 2022-05-11T16:22:50Z |
It’s been over 100 days since Codi Bigsby went missing in Hampton
Published: May. 11, 2022 at 7:03 AM EDT|Updated: 5 hours ago
HAMPTON, Va. (WWBT) - It’s been more than 100 days since 4-year-old Codi Bigsby disappeared in Hampton - and there’s still been no sighting of him.
According to WVEC, Cory Bigsby, Codi’s father reported, him missing in January. Cory says he last saw his son around 2 a.m. Jan. 31 in their home.
Despite search efforts coming up short over the last 14 weeks, the community remains united in trying to bring Codi home.
Copyright 2022 WWBT. All rights reserved.
Want NBC12’s top stories in your inbox each morning? Subscribe here. | https://www.whsv.com/2022/05/11/its-been-over-100-days-since-codi-bigsby-went-missing-hampton/ | 2022-05-11T16:25:41Z |
Boys & Girls Clubs to Host Grand Opening of Chevron Teen Center in Covington
COVINGTON – Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Louisiana will host the grand opening of the Chevron Teen Center on Thursday, May 12 at the Harrison Curriculum Center, 706 W. 28th Avenue, Covington. The new Teen Center – funded by a $50,000 Chevron donation – has been designed to offer a safe space for young adults to develop a love of learning and leadership in the club and in the community.
The Teen Center expansion is designed to help young people meet new friends and take advantage of informal mentorships with adults in their areas of interest. The club’s mission is to enable all young people to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.
“We are thrilled to celebrate this significant addition to our Club with Chevron,” said Angel Nelson, president and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Louisiana. “The center helps us create a club experience that assures success is within reach of every young person who enters our doors, with all members on track to graduate from high school with a plan for the future. We hope everyone comes out and joins us for the grand opening!” | https://www.bizneworleans.com/boys-girls-clubs-to-host-grand-opening-of-chevron-teen-center-in-covington/ | 2022-05-11T16:44:26Z |
Business Leaders to Discuss ‘Entrepreneurship, the New American Dream’
NEW ORLEANS — From I am New Orleans:
In observation of Small Business Month, I am New Orleans will host “Entrepreneurship, the New American Dream,” beginning at 6 p.m. CT on Thursday, May 12. During this virtual event, local entrepreneurs and business leaders will discuss entrepreneurship as a pathway to making individuals, families and communities economically secure and equitable.
“The New Orleans Business Alliance is proud to be able to partner with the W.K. Kellogg Foundation to bring this discussion to our Black, Brown and Indigenous communities,” said Norman E. Barnum, IV, interim president and CEO, New Orleans Business Alliance, partner of I am New Orleans. “When we are exposed to tangible stories of success, we are made aware of the multiple opportunities that are open to us through entrepreneurship and realize this as a viable solution to eliminating economic disparity and creating a prosperous future for all New Orleans communities.”
The event is part of I am New Orleans, a community-led effort designed to inspire conversation and action in creating a more equitable city for its children and families. “Entrepreneurship, the New American Dream” will be moderated by Asali DeVan Ecclesiastes, executive director at Efforts of Grace/Ashé Cultural Arts Center. Panelists include Greg Tillery, owner of WeDat’s Chicken and Shrimp; Cherie Lacour-Duckworth, vice president of workforce development for the Urban League of Louisiana; Lindsey Navarro, executive director of El Centro; Jared R. Green, self-published children’s book author and entrepreneur.
“Entrepreneurship, the New American Dream” aims to discuss ways to create greater access to economic opportunities for entrepreneurs of color. According to the 2018 New Orleans Prosperity Index: Tricentennial Edition, before the pandemic, 40% of small businesses in New Orleans were owned by entrepreneurs of color, yet they only received 2% of the total annual receipts.
Learn more and register here. | https://www.bizneworleans.com/business-leaders-to-discuss-entrepreneurship-the-new-american-dream/ | 2022-05-11T16:44:33Z |
Film Prize Junior Announces Return to In-Person Festival
SHREVEPORT, La. — The Prize Foundation and Louisiana Film Entertainment Association will host the Film Prize Junior festival May 13-15 at the Shreveport Convention Center. It’s the first in-person version of the event since the pandemic began.
In total, 83 films have been submitted from 48 Louisiana schools, 23 of which are Title 1 schools. Student filmmakers and their supporters will watch films at the festival and online and then vote for their favorites.
New Orleans entries in the competition this year include four documentaries from students at the NET: Central City, a charter school on Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard that serves young people who have had difficulty completing classes at other academic institutions. The film topics include education, post Katrina New Orleans, gun violence and immigration.
Bonnabel Magnet High School has also participated in the competition.
“Film Prize Junior has given me the opportunity to challenge my students to not only create and produce their own ideas, but has taught them to be self-motivated, creative individuals worthy of sharing their voices with the world,” said Lindsey Lanson, a Bonnabel teacher. “It is creating our future artists. I have seen this program change lives.”
“It’s incredibly inspiring to see what these teachers and students have created,” said Gregory Kallenberg, executive director of the Prize Foundation, in a press release. “Creating film is a way for these students to learn how to work hard and get on the path to success, and we are very excited to celebrate these students in person this year.”
The Film Prize Junior program is free and open to high school and middle school students statewide. It provides mentorship and workshops to teach the process of filmmaking “from pen to production to marketing,” said a spokesperson.
The festival will feature a virtual red carpet for the student filmmakers, who will have a chance to discuss their projects. Film Prize Junior will also provide industry-led mentorship panels for students and their teachers, and Production Island, an interactive exhibit where students will have guided hands-on access to cameras as well as lighting and sound equipment. Everything’s free and there are stipends to help with travel costs. Students will compete for media and equipment grants for their schools as well as scholarships. Awards will be presented for best film, best comedy, best drama, best sci-fi/thriller, best stop motion/animation and best documentary/PSA.
“This year represents a rebirth for Film Prize Junior,” said Shadi Darzeidan, the event’s director. “The pandemic challenged us to pivot into a virtual festival for the past two years, and it expanded our reach to parts of the state who didn’t know about us. Now we are able to offer both virtual and in-person experiences to provide a broader platform for Louisiana students to share their stories in a more meaningful way.”
To learn more, visit filmprizejr.com. | https://www.bizneworleans.com/film-prize-junior-announces-return-to-in-person-festival/ | 2022-05-11T16:44:39Z |
HR NOLA Included on Inc. Magazine’s List of Best Workplaces
NEW ORLEANS — From HR NOLA:
HR NOLA has been named to Inc. magazine’s annual Best Workplaces list. Featured in the May/June 2022 issue, hitting newsstands on May 17, 2022, and prominently featured on Inc.com, the list is the result of a comprehensive measurement of American companies that have excelled in creating exceptional workplaces and company culture, whether operating in a physical or virtual facility.
HR NOLA was started in 2017 by founder Amy Bakay after a 20-year career in a variety of HR leadership roles. Bakay identified a necessity in the small-business market for tailored Human Resources solutions, as well as retained HR outsourced services, and founded HR NOLA to suit the needs of these businesses. Over the last five years, HR NOLA has helped many companies to select and support their employees, train their management, assure their compliance, and ultimately grow their businesses. HR NOLA takes a different approach to HR, both internally and for their clients. They are passionate about the value that HR brings to an organization, and they are always learning and exploring new solutions to better support any businesses most important asset: their employees.
After collecting data from thousands of submissions, Inc. selected 475 honorees this year. Each company that was nominated took part in an employee survey, conducted by Quantum Workplace, which included topics such as management effectiveness, perks, fostering employee growth, and overall company culture. The organization’s benefits were also audited to determine overall score and ranking.
“At HR NOLA, we strive to create an environment, both in person and remotely, that supports every employee. As HR professionals we know that when employees feel supported and heard, that they are able to focus their best efforts on their job. This in turn helps our clients to get the best results from their strategic HR partnership. I’ve learned so much since starting HR NOLA five years ago! Without my team we wouldn’t have been able to grow to support over 300 businesses nationwide,” said Bakay.
“Not long ago, the term ‘best workplace’ would have conjured up images of open-office designs with stocked snack fridges,” says Inc. editor-in-chief Scott Omelianuk. “Yet given the widespread adoption of remote work, the concept of the workplace has shifted. This year, Inc. has recognized the organizations dedicated to redefining and enriching the workplace in the face of the pandemic.” | https://www.bizneworleans.com/hr-nola-included-on-inc-magazines-list-of-best-workplaces/ | 2022-05-11T16:44:45Z |
Liberty’s Kitchen Names Calvin Johnson Chair, Kara Johnson Vice Chair
NEW ORLEANS — Liberty’s Kitchen announced that the Hon. Calvin Johnson has been named the new chair of the organization’s board of directors, succeeding Tiffany Harvill, who will continue to serve on the board.
After retiring as a judge from the Orleans Parish Criminal District Court, Johnson was one of the founding organizers of Liberty’s Kitchen. He worked closely with Janet Gorence Davas, the organization’s founder and first executive director.
Liberty’s Kitchen first opened across the street from a New Orleans courthouse as a counterpoint to incarceration. The nonprofit’s vision was to create a place where young adults who had been neglected or criminalized could come for a hot meal, a job opportunity and a support system.
Johnson received his undergraduate degree from Southern University in Baton Rouge in 1969, served four years in the United States Air Force, and then received his Juris Doctorate from Loyola Law School in 1978. He was a professor of law at Loyola Law School for nine years and judge at Orleans Parish Criminal District Court for 17. He has received many awards in recognition of his commitment to working with individuals involved in the criminal justice system through every aspect of their recovery, including job readiness, housing stability and community service projects.
“Judge Johnson’s unwavering commitment to the youth of New Orleans is at the forefront of his civic service, and we are truly fortunate to have had his leadership for more than a decade,” said Liberty’s Kitchen CEO Dennis Bagneris. “His calming yet resolute presence is an asset to the organization. We look forward to leaning on his expertise in framing Liberty’s Kitchen’s vision and goals, especially as we continue to transition our programming to serve the opportunity youth of New Orleans who have experienced some of the most detrimental effects of the pandemic. As he assumes this new leadership role, I wish to express our deep gratitude to Tiffany Harvill, who has been instrumental in guiding Liberty’s Kitchen over the last several years.”
The board named Kara Johnson vice chair. Johnson, an attorney and entrepreneur, founded the Cook Shop, which produces a variety of seasonings inspired by her grandparents. She has served as chief of staff for New Orleans City Council Member Nadine Ramsey and in-house counsel for the Orleans Parish Sherriff’s Office. Born and raised in New Orleans, Johnson received her J.D. from the Tulane University Law School and her B.A. in mass communications from the University of New Orleans.
Since 2009, Liberty’s Kitchen has served more than 1,000 youth through its Youth Development Program. The organization has more than 20 community partners helping to provide wraparound services to address barriers to employment ranging from housing to mental health care access to transportation. Additionally, it has forged relationships with nearly 20 active employment partners throughout New Orleans, all of whom are committed to providing opportunity and training through externships and employment. | https://www.bizneworleans.com/libertys-kitchen-names-calvin-johnson-chair-kara-johnson-vice-chair/ | 2022-05-11T16:44:51Z |
Louisiana Senate Passes Reading Education Savings Account Program Bill
BATON ROUGE (The Center Square) — A bill to create a Reading Education Savings Account Program for struggling students cleared the Louisiana Senate.
Lawmakers approved Senate Bill 203, sponsored by Rep. Sharon Hewitt, R-Slidell, with a vote of 24-13 to create accounts parents of students struggling to read can use to improve their education outside of the public school system.
Students who are not reading at grade level by second or third grade would be eligible for the accounts funded with the per-pupil state allotment for qualified education expenses, which include tuition, fees, textbooks, instructional or tutoring services, curriculum, and technological devices.
“If you’re a parent of a second- or third-grade student who is not reading on grade level, time is of the essence,” Hewitt said on Monday. “You know that if your child is not reading by the fourth grade, they’re destined for a lifetime of challenges.”
Hewitt said over half of second- and third-graders in Louisiana are not reading at grade level, and touted the accountability measures in the bill to ensure SB 203 is working to improve their situation.
“Those children will have to take tests, accountability tests, so we’ll know whether this new school environment is working or not,” she said. “Those providers who are providing that education will also be evaluated to whether or not they’re really performing and doing a good job, if they’re not they’re taken off the approved list.”
Hewitt noted that the bill would dedicate the average amount for per-pupil funding of about $5,500 to each account, but would leave local school funding in place. The bill also allows the state to use up to 5% of the funding for administrative expenses to ensure parents are using the money for qualified expenses.
Sen. Regina Barrow, D-Baton Rouge, questioned whether lawmakers have given other programs designed to improve reading enough time to work, but Hewitt countered that parents of struggling students don’t have time to wait it out.
“If you have a child that’s in second or third grade, you’re in crisis mode, you can’t wait … and said I’m going to wait a few years for these programs to work, because now your child is in the fourth grade or fifth grade or whatever and they’ve missed the window,” Hewitt said.
“We have a very small window from kindergarten to third grade to get these kids reading on grade level,” she said. “And so that’s my sense of urgency is giving them some choices right now and when we get all these programs up and running, I hope we have the best literacy program in the country and we don’t have an ESA account because everybody is going to want to be in our public schools.”
Some lawmakers questioned how the bill would impact the retirement system for teachers, while others raised concerns about diverting public funds to private institutions.
“We are institutionalizing defunding public education with an idea we don’t know if it’s going to work or not,” said Sen. Joe Bouie, D-New Orleans.
“One thing we do know is for those kids who are not reading on grade level, we have to do something now,” Hewitt said. “We have to have such a sense of urgency that we’re doing all of the above.”
She also stressed that providers for the Reading Education Savings Account program must be approved by the Louisiana Department of Education under the bill, and students who participate will take accountability tests “so we’re going to know if they really did improve or not.”
A proposed amendment to siphon a portion of the per-pupil funds for the programs to pay down state school employee retirement obligations failed by a vote of 18-19.
SB 203 now heads to the House for consideration. | https://www.bizneworleans.com/louisiana-senate-passes-reading-education-savings-account-program-bill/ | 2022-05-11T16:44:57Z |
Managed IT Services Provider with N.O. Office Announces Acquisition
ATLANTA (press release) — Kian Capital-backed The Purple Guys, a provider of managed IT services to small and mid-sized organizations, completed the acquisition of Accelerate, an Indianapolis-based IT managed services provider. The acquisition expands The Purple Guys’ presence in the Central U.S., providing additional resources and support to offer clients in the region access to an even broader portfolio of IT solutions.
The Purple Guys has an office in New Orleans and Shreveport.
Accelerate provides a full suite of IT managed services to businesses in the Indianapolis market, specializing in customized IT solutions, cloud services and cybersecurity since 1995. Accelerate has established an exemplary reputation for quality and market leading service delivery capabilities.
“Since founding Accelerate, Tony Schafer has done a tremendous job building a highly qualified, professional team focused on providing best in class IT support and services to long tenured, loyal clients,” said Kevin Cook, CEO of The Purple Guys. “We are thrilled that the talented Accelerate team will be joining The Purple Guys as we look to expand our presence in this attractive and growing market.”
Tony Schafer, Founder and President of Accelerate, commented, “I am proud to join forces with The Purple Guys to bring their unique brand and industry-leading solutions to the Central Indiana area. The two companies share a philosophy of empowering our clients by delivering mission critical IT services, tailored strategies and world-class support. We look forward to building on our historical success as a part of The Purple Guys and creating new opportunities for our highly talented teams.”
This is The Purple Guys’ fifth acquisition since the formation of its partnership with Kian Capital and ParkSouth Ventures in January 2020.
Cook added, “Our top priorities are twofold: To be a meaningful partner to our clients by serving all of their IT needs with a focus on enhanced security solutions, and to continue our strategic growth plan to add scale and innovation for our clients and opportunities for our talented people. Accelerate is another step forward as we expand our footprint and remain committed to our acquisition strategy across the Central and Southern U.S.”
Matt Levenson, Partner at Kian Capital, commented, “We are excited to partner with the team at Accelerate. Expanding into Indianapolis is a continuation of our strategy to acquire leading MSPs in key geographic markets across the Central and Southern U.S. The Purple Guys now operates in seven markets across five states, bringing scale to our local service delivery model that enables us to exceed our clients’ needs in this dynamic marketplace. We look forward to continuing our growth story through both organic initiatives and strategic acquisitions in 2022 and beyond.”
Robinson, Bradshaw & Hinson, P.A. acted as legal advisor to Kian Capital. | https://www.bizneworleans.com/managed-it-services-provider-with-n-o-office-announces-acquisition/ | 2022-05-11T16:45:03Z |
Nady Persons Named Program Director of GNO Leader Fellowship
NEW ORLEANS — Special Education Leader Fellowship (SELF), a New Orleans-based nonprofit, announced the promotion of Nady Persons to program director of its Greater New Orleans Leader Fellowship.
“Nady has demonstrated a keen understanding of our program and what it takes to develop the next generation of special education leaders,” said the nonprofit’s chief executive officer Aqua Stovall.
Persons joined SELF in 2021 and previously held the position of senior leadership coach. As program director, Parsons will oversee a program that offers training, coaching, professional learning communities, peer reviews and visits to exemplary schools serving special education leaders. The 2-year Special Education Leader Fellowship program works to improve the quality of special education programming by developing special education and RTI leaders, aspiring leaders and their school leadership to create high-impact programs for students with learning exceptionalities.
“One of my favorite parts of working at SELF is witnessing the growth of people over time and being able to design content and coaching sessions that empower a multitude of people to improve special education systems in our schools,” said Persons.
Founded in 2015, SELF is a New Orleans-based nonprofit that trains teachers and leaders to provide high-quality services for students with learning exceptionalities. SELF believes in the potential of all students and that educators must take responsibility for student success. Founder and chief executive officer Aqua Stovall has built the organization from the ground up, forming relationships with school leaders, teachers and funders to move the mission forward to meet the need for high-quality special education programming in schools.
In 2021, SELF launched its flagship program on a national level. For more information, visit selfnola.org. | https://www.bizneworleans.com/nady-persons-named-program-director-of-gno-leader-fellowship/ | 2022-05-11T16:45:10Z |
New Orleans 500 Survey: Increased Energy Costs Create Challenges
NEW ORLEANS — 30% of the New Orleans executives who responded to this month’s New Orleans 500 email survey said that increased energy costs are creating problems for their businesses.
CNN Business reported that the price for regular gasoline hit a record of $4.40 per gallon this week, so it’s not surprising that owners of transportation-related companies were among those reporting the biggest concerns.
“A lot of our business is in transportation. This includes VIP transfers using sedans and SUVs along with group shuttles using motor coaches and ‘mini coaches,’” said Jeff O’Hara, owner of PRA Business Events. “Anyone walking the streets of New Orleans will know how common a sight all of these vehicles are on our streets, shuttling visitors around town.”
O’Hara said that the recent jump in gas prices has had a significant impact on the cost to operate these vehicles and he’s had to pass that along to clients.
“This results in some difficult conversations at times, but I will say that in most cases people have been understanding,” he said. “However, coupled with rising costs on everything from airfare to food, there is concern that the increased cost will cause companies to scale back on their events. This trickles down to every level of the hospitality industry in New Orleans. You tend to think about hotels and big venues, but bus drivers, restaurant servers, hotel housekeepers and [others] all feel it when events are scaled back.”
O’Hara said business travel is especially important to the city because it’s responsible for the majority of weekday visitors.
“We need it to complement the tourism traffic and keep a steady flow of business across the industry,” he said.
On a bigger scale, international trade and transportation executives headquartered in New Orleans said they are also noticing negative effects of rising energy costs.
Both Jack Jensen of TCI Trucking and Ed Webb, CEO of the World Trade Center New Orleans, cited increased shipping costs as a problem.
“It impacts international business investors in particular,” said Webb. “We’re very concerned about our maritime industry.”
Another type of business facing increased costs? Any that’s responsible for managing real estate, which requires lots of power to keep the lights on and the air conditioners running. Two respondents in this category are architect and developer Marcel Wisznia, whose company owns and manages several properties, and Mimi Dossett, president of Money Hill Plantation in Abita Springs. Dossett said that “people’s fear and anxiety about the economy is negatively affecting business as well.”
When it comes to real estate, few have as much to manage as much as the team leading the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, which has more than a million-square-feet of exhibition space and claims the country’s “largest contiguous-space exhibit hall.” Michael Sawaya, the facility’s president and general manager, said utilities costs are an obvious problem, but recent investments in infrastructure are helping mitigate negative effects.
“Our three-million-square-foot facility is the largest in Orleans Parish, and utility costs are our second highest expense after salaries and benefits,” he said. “In order to reduce usage and net costs, we have adopted progressive, leading-edge sustainability practices, and have made long-term capital investments aimed at reducing usage and costs.”
Sawaya said the Convention Center has replaced lighting fixtures in one million square feet of exhibition space, renovated electrical floor boxes, and installed new boilers and chillers to reduce overall consumption.
“Additionally, we have renovated 36 sets of bathrooms and installed fixtures that use less water and energy,” he said. “Annual savings are expected to be significant.”
Some business owners are solving the extra cost of utilities by downsizing. Lana Joseph-Ford, CEO of High Level Speech & Hearing Center, is one example.
“We decided to consolidate locations and focus on our mobile community outreach program to mitigate operational costs,” she said. “Although it took some getting used to, it has proven to be a cost efficient strategy for us. We realized how wasteful having two large clinic locations was, especially when our city was shut down due to COVID. Even when our clinic was unoccupied we still had to pay utility expenses. We decided not to renew our lease agreement and we’ve now adopted mobile, work-from-home and virtual appointment strategies to reduce costs and ensure that our company remains profitable.”
Many professional service providers, especially those who work from home or have minimal overhead, aren’t experiencing business challenges because of increased energy costs — but some of their clients may very well be, and that requires extra attention and consideration.
“The greatest impact is in its impact on the concerns of clients and employees,” said John Deveney, founder of the Public Relations Agency Deveney. “With employees we are demonstrating empathy for their situations through efforts to provide them great financial rewards for our work. For clients we are sensitive to the impact they are feeling and offering appropriate counsel and initiatives.”
Nonprofit leaders, meanwhile, are aware of the additional strain inflation is putting on New Orleans families.
“For our organization, rising energy costs are increasing the need of hard-working families we call ALICE (Asset Limited Income Constrained Employed),” said Michael Williamson, president and CEO of the United Way of Southeast Louisiana. “These households live paycheck to paycheck, unable to save for an emergency, and already can’t afford a barebones survival budget. When costs increase, ALICE families make risky decisions — like choosing between filling a prescription or fixing the car — that have long-term implications for the families and the broader community. And in an increasingly chaotic and competitive fundraising landscape, finding dollars to support households with basic needs like utilities is becoming increasingly difficult.”
And Asali DeVan Ecclesiastes, executive director at Ashé Cultural Arts Center, said that, ultimately, it’s necessary to make the best of an imperfect situation.
“Especially as we approach a hot summer and an especially active hurricane season, I am super-concerned about our tenants, as well the artists and culture bearers we serve,” she said. “As Ida depleted much of our collective community resources, slow and insufficient insurance response, along with this inflation/price gouging has made it more difficult, if not impossible, for most of us to recover — and now we face an even more vulnerable time ahead. The strategy we’re working to develop is the creation of a climate-positive operations plan that allows us to still serve our community in times of disaster and crisis, even as high energy costs and poor service combine to diminish our capacity to do so.” | https://www.bizneworleans.com/new-orleans-500-survey-increased-energy-costs-create-challenges/ | 2022-05-11T16:45:16Z |
Target at Clearview City Center to Be Remodeled
METAIRIE, La. – The owners of Clearview City Center announced that the 160,000-square-foot Target store located there has begun a “major” renovation that will introduce several new in-store concepts. Target is making these improvements as the shopping mall around it undergoes a $100 million transformation into a “mixed-use, live-work-play concept” that will combine retail, residential and open space for events.
Target said it plans to modernize its exterior storefront with new paint and signage and reconfigure its entire interior design and layout. The pick-up space for online orders will move to the Clearview Parkway side of its store to avoid impeding traffic or inconveniencing customers accessing the main store entrance facing Veterans Boulevard.
The project is scheduled to be completed this year.
“This announcement marks yet another significant milestone in the redevelopment of Clearview City Center as we transform our former mall into a premier mixed-use development,” said Thomas Richards, Clearview City Center managing partner, in a press release. “Target is already one of the most frequently visited stores in our center, and these enhancements will only further improve the customer experience for our and Target’s guests.”
When all is said and done, the old shopping center at the corner of Veterans Boulevard and Clearview Parkway will become a “live, work, play” development that includes apartments, retail, a hotel, a health clinic and space for festivals and special events.
In 2019, the Richards family, which owns the shopping center, said it would reinvent the property to reflect modern shopping and and lifestyle habits. Under the new plan, the existing Target, Bed, Bath & Beyond, and AMC Theatres will remain while much of the remaining enclosed mall space will be demolished. New construction will complete the site.
Various components of the project are moving forward at different paces. A new Regions Bank branch on the property, for instance, is already open for business, and construction is underway on an Ochsner clinic and new 270-unit apartment building. But demolition of the existing mall won’t begin for nearly a year because of long waits for necessary equipment. | https://www.bizneworleans.com/target-at-clearview-city-center-to-be-remodeled/ | 2022-05-11T16:45:22Z |
Winzer: McMorran will once again serve as Port Huron's town square
A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held at the renovated McMorran Place Plaza at 1 p.m. May 26.
The event will take place outdoors on the plaza located at 701 McMorran Blvd., Port Huron. The event is free for the community.
Commemorative coins will be distributed to the first 250 people to arrive to the ribbon cutting.
“McMorran Place is the Blue Water Area’s community civic center and one of the most iconic landmarks in our downtown," Nancy Winzer, director of Port Huron Parks and Recreation said in a statement. "We’re excited to activate the front plaza area as the center of our vibrant downtown and allow it to serve as the town square area it was originally designed for.”
Discussions about the plaza's redevelopment started more than three years ago, with work to clear the site starting in late 2020. Major construction — leaving the Night and Day Fountain and its iconic statues untouched — started last year.
Along with a new look and new amenities, the city has also announced it will be home to concerts and fitness classes throughout the summer.
The city has approved spending $130,375 to pay for the wellness classes over the next three years. The classes will be held from Memorial Day to Labor Day, with four classes per day six days a week through the YMCA of the Blue Water Area.
McMorran Place Manager Rob Churchill has said bands will perform on either the main plaza stage or in the bier garden every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday starting in June until Labor Day.
Visit www.mcmorran.com/plaza for more. | https://www.thetimesherald.com/story/news/2022/05/11/ribbon-cutting-ceremony-set-renovated-mcmorran-plaza/9731619002/ | 2022-05-11T17:58:02Z |
Balenciaga’s new ‘destroyed’ sneakers cost $1,850
(CNN) - Luxury fashion brand Balenciaga launched its new Paris sneaker this week, and images of the shoes have people talking.
The high-top sneakers look old, tattered and dirty – and they cost nearly $2,000.
Balenciaga said just 100 pairs of the “extra destroyed” limited-edition sneakers will be available, with a price tag of $1,850.
The non-limited edition Paris sneakers, a slightly less-destroyed version, are available on the Balenciaga website and cost between $500 and $700, depending on the specific style.
In a press release, Balenciaga said the photos “suggest that Paris sneakers are meant to be worn for a lifetime.”
Social media is having a field day over the sneakers, with one Twitter user writing, “Balenciaga is really charging people $1850 for the pair of torn up converse that my ma begged me to throw out when I was in high school.”
Another wrote, “If you bought the $1,850 Balenciaga sneaker that looks like it was run over by a lawnmower please seek help but also please reach out to me because I would like to understand where your mind was at in that moment.”
Copyright 2022 CNN Newsource. All rights reserved. | https://www.whsv.com/2022/05/11/balenciagas-new-destroyed-sneakers-cost-1850/ | 2022-05-11T17:58:02Z |
Blue Water Area softball: Richmond hasn't missed a beat; Yale's pitching progresses
RICHMOND — With exactly two weeks left in the regular season, it's crunch time for Blue Water Area softball teams. There are less rainouts and more runners on base.
Most of the matchups now are between conference opponents. That's true in the BWAC, where several teams have championship aspirations. And they're getting everybody's best shot.
The Blue Devils aren't missing a beat
When a defending state champion loses nine players to graduation, it's usually time for a rebuild. That isn't the case at Richmond.
"If I were to venture a guess, I think that by the end of the year we're going to be better than we were last year," Richmond coach Howard Stuart said. "But keep in mind — any team can lose on any given day."
With a 15-3 record, there haven't been many days where the Blue Devils have lost this season. They appear primed for another deep tournament run. Still, the Bulldogs gave them all they could handle in the second game of a doubleheader on Tuesday.
"We almost lost," Stuart said. "Because we weren't up for it."
Richmond trailed 3-0 and was down to its last out when the floodgates opened. Piper Clark hit an RBI triple and trimmed the deficit to two. Then Lauren Creon hit a two-run shot to left field that tied the game, 3-3.
"I was thinking 'I need to get the ball in play,' "Creon said. "I need to move runners. There was Piper on third for me. So my main goal was just to get her home — any way I could."
She only needed one pitch to accomplish that goal.
"When I hit it, I knew it was gone," Creon said.
The Blue Devils would then pick up where they left off in the top of the eighth. Richmond scored seven runs in the inning to put the game away.
"We were struggling for a little bit and then we got our momentum back," Clark said. "We put all the (struggles) behind us and kept going."
A few innings earlier, Stuart noticed his team convene in the dugout.
"The captains got the team together — right here on the corner — and said, 'OK, let's go. We're going to take this game. Let's go get it,' " Stuart said. "It was started by Creon, (Clark) and Olivia Theut."
That was an encouraging sight for Stuart and the coaching staff.
"This season, us captains are just focusing on teaching the girls our winning culture," Creon said. "I think that we have a good shot to go all the way again. When we play at our best, we are the best."
Yale's pitching continues to improve
It's clear that the Bulldogs are making progress. They still have a ways to go with a 5-7 record. But their growth on the mound has kept them in alive in several games recently.
"Our pitching has come a long way," Yale coach John Strenk said. "My pitchers — I'm so dang proud of them. I'm very proud of my team."
The top of end of their rotation consists of Natalie Long and Emma Thompson.
Long threw six scoreless innings in the second game against Richmond. She pitched her way out of a bases-loaded jam in the fifth inning by retiring three consecutive batters — two of which were strikeouts.
While Yale is still working on bolstering its offense, senior Emma Thompson continues to impress at the plate this year.
"She's my best hitterm batting-average wise," Strenk said.
Thompson homered off the scoreboard in center field during the first inning of game one on Tuesday.
The Bulldogs struck early in the second game as well. With two outs and the bases loaded, Kylie Mericle hit an RBI single to left field. Then Abbygale Thierry drove in two runs on a single up the middle.
Yale threatened with runners on base throughout the night but wouldn't score again. Strenk knows his team must capitalize on those opportunities moving forward.
"We're just trying to build our core," Strenk said. "And then everything will come together."
Contact Brenden Welper at bwelper@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter @BrendenWelper. | https://www.thetimesherald.com/story/sports/2022/05/11/blue-water-area-softball-richmond-keeps-rolling-along/9710544002/ | 2022-05-11T17:58:08Z |
Harrisonburg Fire Department hosts Community Safety Day at A Dream Come True Playground
HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) -In honor of Safe Kids Week, the Harrisonburg Fire Department is hosting Community Safety Day to promote child safety.
The event will take place at A Dream Come True Playground in Harrisonburg. Everyone is welcome to come out from 3-6 p.m. There will be fire trucks and other first responder vehicles.
First responders will be available for questions and provide more information on preventable injuries.
Leslie Pullen with HFD says more than half of all car seats are not installed properly. Officials will be doing car seat checks Wednesday, but it doesn’t stop there.
“Bike safety, car seat safety, home safety, water safety, anything you can really think of. If you have any questions we are just opening the conversation to parents and caregivers to talk about it,” Pullen explained.
For more about Safe Kids Week, click here.
Copyright 2022 WHSV. All rights reserved. | https://www.whsv.com/2022/05/11/harrisonburg-fire-department-hosts-community-safety-day-dream-come-true-playground/ | 2022-05-11T17:58:08Z |
High inflation leaves food banks struggling to meet needs
(AP) – Kendall Nunamaker and her family of five in Kennewick, Washington, faced impossible math this month: How to pay for gas, groceries and the mortgage with inflation driving up prices?
Like many other working families, the Nunamakers are grappling with the 8.3% inflation in the consumer price index in April announced Wednesday — slowing slightly from the March figure which was the largest year-over-year increase since 1981, according to the Labor Department. The national average gas price reached a record high Wednesday of $4.40 a gallon. And global food prices are climbing after shortages caused by Russia’s war against Ukraine and other supply chain problems.
Food banks across America say those economic conditions are intensifying demand for their support at a time when their labor and distribution costs are climbing and donations are slowing. The problem has grown to the point where last week President Joe Biden called for a Conference on Hunger, Nutrition and Health in September, the first since 1969.
For many families like the Nunamakers, food insecurity became a painful surprise.
“There’s no reason us as a couple and a family should be struggling so hard,” Nunamaker said. “We make decent money.”
She works three days a week at a home décor store for $15.25 an hour; her husband, Nick, works a full-time union job as a paratransit driver at $27 an hour. Though they receive some money from a state nutrition program for young children that their two youngest qualify for, they still spent $360 on groceries last week.
Because of inflated prices, those groceries didn’t go far enough to feed everyone. And the family still lacked money to pay other household bills, leaving Nunamaker wondering how she would stretch their next paychecks to cover those bills and their mortgage this month.
In the past, to bridge the gap, the family sold off possessions like VR headsets and firearms.
“At some point,” Nunamaker said, “we’re not going to have anything because we would have sold everything.”
So Nunamaker and her husband visited two local food banks for the first time last week.
The pandemic forced roughly 60 million Americans to seek help for food insecurity, according to Feeding America. At the end of 2021, as hiring boomed, demand for food banks returned to regular levels. But the relief was short-lived.
“In the last few months, with this increase in inflationary pressures, we’re seeing 95% of our 200 member food banks saying that they have seen either leveling or an increase in need,” said Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, CEO of Feeding America.
In the area along the Columbia River where Nunamaker lives, the number of clients seeking food aid at a church pantry jumped 40% between December and March, according to Eric Williams, director of community partnerships at Second Harvest, an organization that works to supply local pantries with food.
He said his organization must make more happen with less because its suppliers are subject to the same cost increases. The price that Second Harvest pays for obtaining donated produce has risen from about 6 cents a pound a year ago to about 10 or 11 cents a pound now, Williams said.
Some of Feeding America’s food pantry partners have closed because of dwindling donations and higher costs for receiving and delivering food. Others have less food on their shelves even though they have higher demand.
“Our network emphasizes access and equity,” Babineaux-Fontenot said. “So we are working extra hard to reach people who have the deepest food insecurity rates. Well, how far out can we go when gas prices are high? We have data that shows that race and place are significant indicators of whether or not you will be food insecure and how deeply you will be food insecure.”
Because of inflation and a reduction in aid, a food bank that serves three counties in Ohio — also called Second Harvest — is facing a drop in the amount of food it’s able to provide.
“Compared to last year at this time, we’re about 50% down in what we have received in the past in federal food donations and then about 20% down from food drives in our collection of food at the grocery stores,” Executive Director Tyra Jackson said. “All of that combined is truly having an impact on our budget because we’re needing to purchase more food outright.”
The struggles of families are heightened by the fact that government benefits that were increased during the pandemic like food stamps or unemployment insurance have stopped or will end shortly.
“Our work is always important,” Babineaux-Fontenot said. “It’s increasingly important when we have all of these headwinds.”
Williams, of Spokane, extended gratitude to the donors and volunteers that keep his organization running, some of whom worked more than 100 shifts last year. He said it can be difficult to witness first hand the scale of the food insecurity in his community when helping with distributions at a mobile food bank.
“You see the need and you just go, ‘Oh God, oh my God,’ " Williams said. “But then as you hand somebody a box of food and they drive off: ‘Yeah, we were able to help,’ which is heart-wrenching on one hand and heartwarming on the other.”
Because it upsets her so much, Nunamaker said, she hasn’t discussed her family’s struggles with her three children, age 2, 4 and 7, or her network of friends and relatives. She said the food banks helped her family last week.
“People should know that just because you have to go to a food bank or you have to seek assistance, that doesn’t make you any less of a parent or a person,” she said. “Because everybody needs help sometimes.”
___
Associated Press coverage of philanthropy and nonprofits receives support through the AP’s collaboration with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content. For all of AP’s philanthropy coverage, visit https://apnews.com/hub/philanthropy.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.whsv.com/2022/05/11/high-inflation-leaves-food-banks-struggling-meet-needs/ | 2022-05-11T17:58:14Z |
Judge announces he’ll block DeSantis’ redistricting plan
Published: May. 11, 2022 at 1:13 PM EDT|Updated: 45 minutes ago
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — A congressional map approved by Florida Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis and drawn by his staff is unconstitutional because it breaks up a district where Black voters can choose their representatives, a state judge said Wednesday.
Leon County Circuit Judge Layne Smith said he would issue a formal order Thursday or Friday to keep the maps from taking effect in November’s election. He made it clear he would rule in favor of voting rights groups challenging the maps.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.whsv.com/2022/05/11/judge-announces-hell-block-desantis-redistricting-plan/ | 2022-05-11T17:58:21Z |
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