Category Archives: Scoop

Los Angeles-Based Minority Director, Lakpathy Wijesekara’s Feature Film ‘Free By Noon’ To Hit Theaters In October

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Los Angeles-based, Sri Lankan filmmaker, Lakpathy Wijesekara's latest feature film "Free By Noon" starring John Eisen, Raechel Wong, Justine Herron and Melissa Howell will be theatrically released in Los Angeles from October 15 to October 21, 2021 at the Laemmle theater in Glendale.

According to UCLA's Hollywood Diversity Report 2020, only 14.4% of directors of theatrical films represent people of color. Alarmingly, only 3.4% were directors of Asian origin in 2019.

"L" - Lakpathy Wijesekara has Sri Lankan roots, a tiny island on the coast of India. His last cinematic endeavor was a Virtual Reality film from a newborn's perspective about Child Laundering.

"Free By Noon" has a truly diverse cast and a crew. Not one or two but seven different languages were spoken on the "Free By Noon" set.

"Free By Noon" is about a married man who tries to have some "extra" fun in Las Vegas, where he gets locked up in a very unusual situation. He has to get himself out of this quirky situation to save his marriage before his wife gets home.

"I felt like this was a unique Hollywood Film and a really good human drama done with a small plot," said Mr. Aruna Gunarathna, Editor of Sarasaviya newspaper, a trade magazine equivalent of Hollywood Reporter / Variety in Sri Lanka.

The film was shot on an Arri Alexa camera with a single Anamorphic lens.

Once the film is screened at the Glendale Laemmle theater from Oct. 15-21, 2021, the filmmakers plan to take it to New York, Texas and Atlanta and screen it in Sri Lanka as well.

Learn more: https://www.laemmle.com/film/free-noon

Los Angeles-based, Sri Lankan filmmaker, Lakpathy Wijesekara's latest feature film "Free By Noon" starring John Eisen, Raechel Wong, Justine Herron and Melissa Howell will be theatrically released in Los Angeles from October 15 to October 21, 2021 at the Laemmle theater in Glendale.

Related link: https://www.facebook.com/lakpathy

Downtown Florence’s Cottonwood to offer same products as Whole Foods

FLORENCE, Ala. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Shoals' favorite farm-to-table grocery store, Cottonwood Farm & Grocery, now partners with United Natural Foods (UNFI) to offer all of your niche organic and natural favorites - right around the corner.

UNFI, the same distributor who stocks Whole Foods, has already delivered their first truck to the Shoals, allowing Cottonwood customers to enjoy their big-name favorites without driving more than an hour to purchase them.

"We're always thinking about what our community wants and needs," said co-owner Brian Williamson Jr. "We don't want people having to drive to Huntsville, Nashville, or Birmingham to get their groceries when we can easily provide those goods for them."

Cottonwood Farm & Grocery is the first and only business in the Shoals to offer wholesale UNFI products - such as Annie's Homegrown, Justin's Peanut Butter, Chobani and LaCroix, among others - as well as 100 percent organic fruits and vegetables of better quality than Publix or Amish produce.

"If there's something you don't see in the store but you usually pick up on your Whole Foods run, I guarantee we can get it," Williamson said. "Why would you need to go to Trader Joe's when you've got us right around the corner?"

Since their grand opening in April, Cottonwood Farm & Grocery has offered downtown Florence fresh flowers and produce as well as humanely raised meats and dairy products. Their focus on providing farm fresh goods has bolstered community education of local versus wholesale farming, and the organic, natural offerings provided by UNFI complement that goal.

Current UNFI-provided products include:

* LaCroix Sparkling Water
* Topo Chico Sparkling Water
* WOODSTOCK Pickles
* Annie's Homegrown Mac and Cheese, Snack Mix, and Cereal
* Justin's Peanut Butter Cups
* Kettle Brand Potato Chips
* Bragg Liquid Aminos and Apple Cider Vinegar
* Near East Pilaf and Couscous
* Kind Granola Bars
* Angie's Popcorn
* Chobani Greek Yogurt
* Tubs of trail mix
* Dozens and dozens more!

Current organic fruits and vegetable selection includes:

* Broccoli slaw
* Carrots (Regular and Baby)
* Cucumbers
* Herbs (including basil, rosemary, and thyme)
* Lettuce and salad mixes
* Mushrooms
* Onions
* Mini sweet peppers
* Baby potato mix
* Tomatoes (heirloom and cherry)
* Pink Lady apples
* Bananas
* Red seedless grapes
* Peaches (white and yellow)
* Hummus (Black Bean, Roasted Red Pepper, and Regular)

For questions regarding Cottonwood Farm & Grocery, contact Brian Williamson Jr. at jr@limegroupllc.com or visit https://www.cottonwood-farm.com/.

Follow on Social at:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cottonwoodfarm14/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cottonwoodfarm14

The Shoals' favorite farm-to-table grocery store, Cottonwood Farm & Grocery, now partners with United Natural Foods (UNFI) to offer all of your niche organic and natural favorites - right around the corner.

Related link: https://www.cottonwood-farm.com/

Music Theater Works Presents RAGTIME

SKOKIE, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Music Theater Works will present "Ragtime" at the North Shore Center For The Performing Arts In Skokie (9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie, IL 60076) from October 29, 2021 through November 7, 2021 being the third production of the 2021 Season.

About The Show

Music Theater Works brings this 13-time Tony Award-nominated musical with its rich, award-winning score by Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens - the lyricist and composer duo behind Once on This Island and Seussical to its stage. "Ragtime," based on the E. L. Doctorow, tells the unforgettable story of an upper-class wife, a determined Jewish immigrant and a young, daring Harlem musician living during the early years of the 20th century.

Showcasing the great struggle that accompanies the American Dream and featuring some of the most well-known figures of the time, Ragtime tells the tale of three different individuals who desire a brighter future but must unite to achieve their goals.

Production Details

WHO:

* Music Theater Works

WHAT:
* "Ragtime"
* Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens
* Book by Terrence McNally
* Music by Stephen Flaherty
* Directed by Stacey Flaster
* Choreography by Ariel Etana Triunfo
* Music Directed and Conducted by Roger Bingaman

CAST MEMBERS:
* Dan Gold (as Tateh)
* Kelly Britt (as Mother)
* Lydia Burke (as Sarah)
* Brian Hupp (as Father)
* Bob Sanders (as Grandfather & Judge)
* Korey White (as Booker T. Washington)
* Curtis Bannister (as Coalhouse Walker Jr.)
* Ryan Dooley (as Mother's Younger Brother)

CREATIVE TEAM:
* Dramaturg (Nathan Lamp)
* Tech Director (Will Hughes)
* Dialect Coach (Kathy Logelin)
* Props Designer (Ellen Markus)
* Sound Designer (Aaron Quick)
* Set Designer (Sotirios Livaditis)
* Production Manager (Bob Silton)
* Lighting Designer (Andrew Myers)
* Fight Choreographer (Nick Sandys)
* Stage Manager (Sean Michael Mohler)
* Costume Designer (Rachel Sypniewski)
* Assistant Stage Manager (Parker Bailey)
* Producing Artistic Director (Kyle A. Dougan)
* Hair And Make-Up Co-Designer (Alice Salazar)
* Hair And Make-Up Co-Designer (Charlene Sellers)

WHEN:
* Group Performance: Thursday, October 28, 2021 @ 1:00 PM
* Press Performance: Friday, October 29, 2021 @ 8:00 PM
* Saturday, October 30, 2021 @ 8:00 PM
* Sunday, October 31, 2021 @ 2:00 PM
* Wednesday, November 3, 2021 @ 1:00 PM
* Friday, November 5, 2021 @ 8:00 PM
* Saturday, November 6, 2021 @ 2:00 PM & 8:00 PM
* Sunday, November 7, 2021 @ 2:00 PM

WHERE:
North Shore Center For The Performing Arts In Skokie

9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie, IL 60077

TICKETS:

Ticket prices range from $41 to $108 and tickets for guests 25 and under are half-price.

Box Office: (847) 673-6300

Website: https://www.musictheaterworks.com/Ragtime/

RUN TIME:

The approximate run time is 2 hours and 45 minutes, including one 15 minute intermission.

HEALTH SAFETY:

ALL GUESTS will be required to wear a face mask regardless of vaccination status and to present their photo ID with proof of full vaccination from COVID-19 with an approved vaccine.

Please visit https://www.musictheaterworks.com/health-safety-procedures/ for more information.

UPCOMING SHOWS

BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL (Dec 23, 2021 - Jan 2, 2022).

The 2021 season has been proudly sponsored by Joyce Saxon.

ABOUT MUSIC THEATER WORKS

Music Theater Works is a professional non-profit theater company based in Wilmette, Illinois featuring a colorful repertoire including operetta, the Golden Age of Broadway, the Great American Songbook, and modern classics since 1980.

As of 2021, Music Theater Works has become a resident theater company at the North Shore Center For The Performing Arts In Skokie (9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie, IL 60076).

The mission of Music Theater Works is to produce and present musical theater from a variety of world traditions and to engage the local community through educational and outreach programs.

MEDIA CONTACT
Aaron Ozee
Director of Marketing
Music Theater Works
Phone: (847) 920-5360 ext. 7
Email: aozee@musictheaterworks.org

Music Theater Works will present "Ragtime" at the North Shore Center For The Performing Arts In Skokie (9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie, IL 60076) from October 29, 2021 through November 7, 2021 being the third production of the 2021 Season.

Related link: https://www.musictheaterworks.com/

Update to the New Windows OS: EaseUS Releases Free Windows 11 Capability Checker APP and Provides Free Windows 11 Download For Users

CHENGDU, China /ScoopCloud/ -- EaseUS, a leading software company with 15 years of experience, recently released a lightweight Windows 11 Update Free Checker. Two weeks ago, Microsoft reaffirmed its commitment to the list of supported CPUs for Windows 11, and re-released the PC Health Check app. This app lets you check whether your PC meets the system requirements for Windows 11 on your current PC and laptop.

Windows 11 Updates Checker

Free Download and Check Your System Now https://down.easeus.com/product/why_not_win11

Right now, we only know Windows 11 is coming this year, though the usual timeframe for major Windows updates has been mid-October or November.

According to the official, here are the basic system requirements to install Windows 11 on your laptop/PC. While Microsoft has said Windows 10 users can upgrade to Windows 11 for free, however, Windows 11 requires a bunch of specific system requirements. If your PC can not meet these requirements, sorry, you cannot install this stunning new OS.

You can use our Windows 11 Upgrade Checker to test whether your PC can run Windows 11.

Download Windows 11 via EaseUS Windows 11 Builder

Free Download Windows 11 Now https://down.easeus.com/product/win11_builder

If your PC meets the Windows 11 minimum specifications, you can download and install Windows 11 now. You can use EaseUS Windows 11 Builder to quickly download and install the new OS.

Windows 11 Update Solutions: Convert MBR to GPT with EaseUS Partition Master

Windows 11, unlike its predecessors, comes with stringent hardware requirements, which not only needs TPM 2.0, UEFI, and the right GPT partition style. When Installing Windows 11 via a bootable USB Windows Installation Media, you may receive an error-This PC can't run Windows 11. One of the biggest challenges is that Windows 11 requires GPT as OS disk.

To obtain a smooth Windows 11 upgrade process, converting the OS disk MBR to GPT style without data loss and keeping everything intact is your next move.

EaseUS Partition Master can come to help. It is disk management software that performs all kinds of operations when it comes to storage.

THE TOOL OFFERS THE FOLLOWING FEATURES:

* Resize/Delete/Merge/Create partitions

* Convert MBR to GPT and vice versa

* Create WinPE disks for recovery

* Convert to other disk formats

* Wipe data to make them irrecoverable

& Unlike Windows tools, it allows you to convert from MBR to GPT without any loss. So you can convert to GPT from MBR, restart, and you are good to install Windows 11.

Price & Availability

EaseUS Partition Master is fully compatible with Windows 10/8/7, and available from $19.95. Check the plans here: https://www.easeus.com/partition-manager/epm-pro-buy.html

About EaseUS Software

Founded in 2004, EaseUS is an international leading software company specialized in data backup, data recovery, data management, and data transfer fields, served more than 530 million users from over 160 countries worldwide.

"EaseUS" is a registered trademark of CHENGDU Yiwo Tech Development Co., Ltd.

EaseUS, a leading software company with 15 years of experience, recently released a lightweight Windows 11 Update Free Checker. Two weeks ago, Microsoft reaffirmed its commitment to the list of supported CPUs for Windows 11, and re-released the PC Health Check app. This app lets you check whether your PC meets the system requirements for Windows 11 on your current PC and laptop.

Related link: https://www.easeus.com/

Community Action Study Examines Impact of COVID-19 on Low-Income Families and Communities in North Carolina

RALEIGH, N.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Financial hardships caused by the COVID-19 pandemic are hitting low-income families in North Carolina especially hard, according to a new report released today by the North Carolina Community Action Association (NCCAA).

The study, which explored the impact of COVID-19 on low-income families and communities in North Carolina, was commissioned by NCCAA to gauge how the pandemic was affecting its efforts to combat poverty and facilitate self-sufficiency in low-income communities.

The full report is presented in two parts. Part I, "Lived Experiences of the COVID-19 Pandemic," presents the findings from focus groups with low-income families throughout the state. Part II, "Ruminations from the Frontlines of the COVID-19 Pandemic," presents the findings from key informant interviews with local leaders in low-income communities served by Community Action Agencies throughout the state.

"The voices of the people behind the numbers are equally important but heard less often, especially the voices of low-income people who have had their trials multiplied by the pandemic," said lead researcher Dr. James Johnson, Jr., director, Urban Investment Strategies. Dr. Johnson conducted the study in conjunction with researchers from the Kenan Flagler Business School at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and the Cedar Grove Institute for Sustainable Communities.

The study concluded that COVID-19 exacted a disproportionately heavy toll on low-income families, especially in terms of both exposure to and deaths from the coronavirus.

"This finding was not surprising, particularly as we know that low-wealth individuals who hurt the most are hardest hit by any catastrophe," said Sharon C. Goodson, executive director, NCCAA. The study also found vaccine hesitancy to be widespread among North Carolina's low-income families and households.

In addition to disparate exposures and deaths among the state's low-income population, the study found that the COVID-19 pandemic created major employment challenges and forced low-income households to make difficult decisions and choices regarding work versus personal safety and the health and wellbeing of their families. The shift to remote learning during the pandemic shed new light on deficiencies in the availability, access, quality, and cost of internet services for low-income families.

Focus group participants noted heightened personal and familial stress and anxiety posing, in the process, major socioemotional and mental health challenges for low-income individuals and families throughout the state.

Government safety-net programs were an important lifeline for these families but fell short of addressing the actual range of assistance low-income households needed. However, nonprofit organizations increased their efforts to provide additional financial and socio-emotional support, and basic-necessities such as food and personal protective equipment. Conversely, local governments and nonprofits have been forced to better collaborate to provide support, goods, and services to the needy in their communities.

The full report can be found HERE (PDF): https://7a61ea77-dbfd-4da9-af54-591f2159d280.filesusr.com/ugd/ae395b_416905c34a8d4dc586456472ef5ab926.pdf

About the North Carolina Community Action Association:

The North Carolina Community Action Association is a member organization providing North Carolina's community action agencies with the resources to help improve living conditions and deliver opportunities to the state's most vulnerable families. Founded in 1967, we offer technical assistance, training, and other resources to aid our members in fighting poverty in their local communities. Our goal is to help stabilize and help provide self-sufficiency to families in crisis. For more information about the North Carolina Community Action Association, please visit our website at https://www.nccaa.net/.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Yvette D. Ruffin, APR
Phone: 919-673-3340 (mobile)
Email: yvette.ruffin@nccaa.net

Financial hardships caused by the COVID-19 pandemic are hitting low-income families in North Carolina especially hard, according to a new report released today by the North Carolina Community Action Association (NCCAA).

Related link: https://www.nccaa.net/

US-based Carbon Direct invests €15M ($17.7M) for 7% stake in Calix’s LEILAC business

SYDNEY, Australia /ScoopCloud/ -- Multi-award-winning Australian technology company Calix Limited (ASX: CXL) ("Calix" or the "Company") is pleased to announce global decarbonisation investor Carbon Direct Capital Management has invested €15m for a 6.98% equity stake in Calix subsidiary, the LEILAC Group, which is dedicated to the commercialisation and ongoing development of Calix's LEILAC CO2 capture technology.

Highlights:

* €15M investment in Calix's LEILAC business by Carbon Direct, one of the world's leading decarbonisation investors

* Investment will accelerate the development and deployment of LEILAC, which uses Calix technology for cement and lime decarbonisation

* Carbon Direct will advise LEILAC on areas including capital markets, regulations, commercial development, and technical development, helping it scale the business

* LEILAC technology has been successfully piloted at 25,000tpa scale and is now being scaled up to 100,000tpa, with several commercial pilot plants under development

* Investment implements Calix's equity farm-in strategy to create focussed, commercialisation businesses for its core technology

* Calix will host an investor webinar at 10.00am (AEST) Thursday 16 September with CEO, Phil Hodgson. Click here to register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_unJvaUQ0TdONM9yA30XgwA

Calix will continue to own the remaining 93% of the LEILAC Group.

In addition, as part of the transaction, Calix has entered into a licence agreement with the LEILAC Group under which it will retain 30% of royalties earned by the LEILAC Group from deployment of the technology, regardless of Calix's equity stake in the LEILAC Group. The LEILAC Group will operate autonomously, with its own management team and a Board composed mostly of Calix directors, with one appointee nominated by Carbon Direct.

The LEILAC Group, comprising Calix (Europe) Ltd (UK) and its subsidiaries, is the exclusive licensee of Calix's Low Emissions Intensity Lime and Cement (LEILAC) CO2 capture technology. LEILAC technology was successfully piloted at 25K tonnes per annum scale at HeidelbergCement's plant in Lixhe, Belgium, and is being scaled up to 100K tonnes per annum scale in the "LEILAC-2" project for a HeidelbergCement plant in Hannover, Germany. Further commercial pilot plants for lime production are under development with Tarmac, the UK division of CRH, and AdBri in Australia, among others.

US-based Carbon Direct's investment arm, Carbon Direct Capital Management, makes direct investments into leading carbon removal and utilisation technology companies. The firm also operates a scientific advisory business, which advises leading corporations on how to fulfil their carbon removal and utilisation commitments. Carbon Direct's advisory work spans 28 countries and includes clients such as Microsoft and Shopify.

Pottinger acted as financial and strategic advisor to Calix on this transaction, and Hamilton Locke acted as legal advisor.

Carbon Direct investment to accelerate LEILAC technology uptake

Along with existing capital already invested in the LEILAC Group, Carbon Direct's investment will be used by the LEILAC Group to accelerate and continue to de-risk deployment of the LEILAC technology, both technically and commercially. Technically, additional resources will be deployed in engineering and research to speed optimisation. Commercially, new resourcing in business development, especially project development and CO2 use or sequestration, will be deployed to help develop complete project solutions for customers. A new CEO will be appointed to run the business as a stand-alone entity.

The investment marks the conclusion of work led by Pottinger to accelerate commercialisation of the LEILAC technology and identify the optimal financial and strategic partner(s) to support this the business' critical next phase of development.

Calix Limited CEO Phil Hodgson said the deal represented a critical milestone in Calix's stated strategy of seeking equity "farm-ins," after initial development undertaken by Calix, to accelerate and deploy its underlying platform technology into each line of business, with Calix remaining head licensor.

"As each of these businesses become independent commercial entities, they will remain joined at the hip" technically with Calix, which will continue to support development of the core intellectual property. Over time, growing royalty income from these companies will also support the development of new applications of the IP and associated technologies," Mr Hodgson said.

He said the investment by Carbon Direct will help accelerate the development and deployment of the Calix Technology for cement and lime decarbonisation.

"The recent Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report was unequivocal in saying that to reach the stated 2030 goals on climate change, CO2 emissions have to be reduced. LEILAC Technology is an option that is being deployed now to meet this urgent need.

"Carbon Direct coming on board is a strong vote of confidence in Calix's LEILAC decarbonising technology, following on from endorsements and partnerships with industry leaders such as HeidelbergCement, Cemex, Lhoist and Solvay

"The investment will assist us in accelerating the deployment of the technology into the carbon capture and storage landscape, with additional resources covering technology research and development, CO2 logistics, use and storage, and whole-of-project expertise, while our technology gains more exposure in global markets outside of Europe.

"The deal also represents our first material portfolio transaction in our stated strategy to farm-in equity to deploy our technology commercially. We believe this strategy adds speed and focus at a critical time in the technology commercialisation journey, and leaves the head company to focus on what it does best - supporting our technology and developing the next global, disruptive applications."

Carbon Direct founder and CEO Jonathan Goldberg said Carbon Direct invested in companies that could deliver both commercially viable solutions and solve big climate problems.

"We are very impressed by the technical and commercial rigor of the LEILAC team, and plant partners are outspoken in their excitement about LEILAC. We are delighted to support Phil, Calix, and the LEILAC Group as they seek to scale LEILAC into cement and lime plants around the world," Mr Goldberg said.

"Both Carbon Direct's investment team and its scientific advisory team, which now includes 46 globally renowned CO2 scientists and project managers, are available to assist the LEILAC Group on subjects including capital markets, regulations, commercial development, and technical development. Our entire firm is dedicated to helping technologies such as LEILAC to scale."

Pottinger Executive Chairman Nigel Lake added: "Great engineering and technology alone are not enough: to have a transformational impact on an entire global industry takes a dedicated and well-resourced business. The investment by Carbon Direct marks a critical inflexion point for both Calix and the LEILAC Group as decarbonisation of the construction sector begins in earnest."

Carbon capture is needed to reach the UN climate goals

Global decarbonisation efforts are accelerating. For example, in June 2019, the UK Government became the first major economy to commit to net zero CO2 by 2050 and is heavily supporting decarbonisation efforts through funding under the UK Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy £1bn Net Zero Innovation Portfolio. In 2021, the European Union unveiled a plan to slash its carbon emissions by 55% before 2030 and impose border tariffs on countries, including Australia, that do not have some form of carbon price.

Cement production is the world's single biggest industrial cause of carbon pollution, responsible for up to 8% of global emissions, producing more than 4 billion tonnes of CO2 per year. Cement is the primary ingredient in concrete, the second most used material in the world after water. Meanwhile, the global production volume of lime was approximately 330 million tonnes in 2020, with myriad applications beyond cement including the manufacture of aluminium, asphalt, copper, glass, gold, lithium, plasterboard, silver, solar-grade silica, steel, table salt and toothpaste. Lime is also used in agriculture and for water and sewage treatment.

Making 1 tonne of lime or cement clinker produces approximately 1 tonne of CO2

LEILAC's Breakthrough carbon capture technology

Between 50 to 60% of cement CO2 emissions derive from the process of heating or "calcination" of limestone, the chemical reaction that converts limestone (CaCO3) into lime (CaO) and CO2. These emissions are therefore unavoidable and a low-cost capture solution is essential.

The patented LEILAC kiln design separates CO2 emissions arising during lime and cement production without significant energy penalty. The LEILAC kiln is being developed to use a variety of input fuels and is also easily electrified, enabling complete decarbonisation of production by switching to renewable energy.

LEILAC technology was successfully piloted at 25ktpa scale at HeidelbergCement's Lixhe Cement plant in Belgium, and is being scaled up to 100kTpa scale in the "LEILAC-2" project for a HeidelbergCement plant in Hannover, Germany. LEILAC-2 is targeted to be in production by late 2023 / early 2024, and is being funded by €34m from the EU Horizon 2020 scheme through a combination of cash and in-kind contributions from industrial partners. In addition to HeidelbergCement, industrial partners helping in developing the technology include Cemex, Tarmac, Cimpor, Lhoist, Engie and Solvay.

Six commercial-scale cement and four commercial scale lime follow-on projects are being developed with several interested parties, with two projects now moving into more detailed planning under previously announced heads of agreement with CRH's UK subsidiary Tarmac and Adbri in Australia.

About Carbon Direct LLC

Carbon Direct provides both scientific advisory services and investment capital to the carbon removal & utilization ecosystem. Our advisory business works for clients to fulfill their carbon removal & utilization commitments. Carbon Direct's team of world-renowned carbon scientists has a nuanced understanding of the true risks and opportunities of emerging and mature carbon removal & utilization technologies. Our investment business makes direct investments into leading carbon removal & utilization companies. Carbon Direct was founded in 2019 by Jonathan Goldberg and has offices in New York City. To learn more, visit http://www.carbon-direct.com/

About Calix

Calix is a team of dedicated people developing a unique, patented technology to provide industrial solutions that address global sustainability challenges.

The core technology is being used to develop more environmentally friendly solutions for sustainable processing, advanced batteries, crop protection, aquaculture, wastewater and carbon reduction.

Calix develops its technology via a global network of research and development collaborations, including governments, research institutes and universities, some of world's largest companies, and a growing customer base and distributor network for its commercialised products and processes.

Because there's only one Earth - Mars is for Quitters.

Website: https://www.calix.global/

Twitter: @CalixLimited

YouTube: CalixLimited

MULTIMEDIA:

PHOTO Link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0915s2p-calix-leilac-300dpi.jpg

Caption: Calix decarbonising technology at the LEILAC plant in Belgium.

Multi-award-winning Australian technology company Calix Limited (ASX: CXL) ("Calix" or the "Company") is pleased to announce global decarbonisation investor Carbon Direct Capital Management has invested €15m for a 6.98% equity stake in Calix subsidiary, the LEILAC Group, which is dedicated to the commercialisation and ongoing development of Calix's LEILAC CO2 capture technology.

Related link: https://www.calix.global/

Legacy Launch Pad Publishing releases business book by navy captain-turned-entrepreneur Gene Moran

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Legacy Launch Pad Publishing is releasing the second book by entrepreneur Gene Moran, founder and president of the consulting firm Capitol Integration. "Make Your Move: Charting Your Post-Military Career" (ISBN 978-1-951407-79-7) synthesizes Moran's experiences as a former Naval officer, lobbyist and lifelong sailor to create an entertaining, information-packed guide for those transitioning out of the military or through post-military life-or anybody facing a major career change.

Throughout the book, Moran shares powerful moments from his young life, including learning to sail in South Florida and traveling the world as a young Naval officer. Along the way, he introduces the reader to world leaders who shaped his higher purpose and guided his progress-including Jimmy Buffett.

While Moran left the Navy in 2008 and has already published a bestselling book about business, Make Your Move is more of a personal calling-his legacy written to help others. It's about the importance of finding mentors, learning from your mistakes and discovering how to apply self-sufficiency-all keys to finding fulfillment.

This book is more than a guide to success, says publisher Anna David. "It's also an adventure story about Gene's extraordinary life of service, leadership and passion," she says. "It's about maintaining a growth mindset throughout your life and using Gene's five-part system-planning, strategy, courage, leadership, diplomacy and ownership-to make successful transitions."

As part of his mission to give back to the military community, Moran will donate 100 percent of his proceeds from this book to Freedom Fighter Outdoors, a nonprofit organization that provides unique outdoor experiences for injured veterans.

"Make Your Move: Charting Your Post-Military Career" is available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble, among many other outlets.

To learn more visit: https://www.capitolintegration.com/

About Legacy Launch Pad Publishing:

A boutique publishing company primarily for entrepreneurs who are the leaders in their field, Legacy Launch Pad has published authors from the entertainment and entrepreneurial worlds, as well as sports agents, coaches, non-profit founders and more.

MEDIA CONTACT

Kaitlin Anthony

kaitlin@launchpadpub.com

MULTIMEDIA:

PHOTO LINK for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0915s2p-llp-make-move-300dpi.jpg

Legacy Launch Pad Publishing is releasing the second book by entrepreneur Gene Moran, founder and president of the consulting firm Capitol Integration. "Make Your Move: Charting Your Post-Military Career" (ISBN 978-1-951407-79-7) synthesizes Moran's experiences.

Related link: https://www.launchpadpub.com/

Cargill Turkey Production Recertified As VPP Star Site

RICHMOND, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Cargill Turkey Production, LLC Harrisonburg Feed Mill in Harrisonburg, Virginia, has been recertified as a Virginia STAR Worksite under the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry's Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP).

The Cargill Turkey Production, LLC Harrisonburg Feed Mill is one of 36 current participants in the STAR program of public/private sector worksites to achieve and retain this recognition. In 2004, the Cargill Harrisonburg Feed Mill was the first feed mill in the United States to be recognized as a VPP STAR site. The site has 25 employees and is part of Cargill's integrated poultry production operations in Virginia and West Virginia. The feed mill produces on average, 7,200 tons a week and 350,000 tons a year of bulk turkey feed for Cargill contracted turkey growers as well as chicken feed for growers filling contracts with George's Poultry Growing operations in the Shenandoah Valley.

The Virginia VPP recognizes and promotes exceptional safety and health management systems for Virginia's employers in all industries. In VPP, the participant's management, workers, and VOSH establish a cooperative relationship that encourages continuous improvement in worksite safety performance.

Acceptance into Virginia's VPP is confirmation and recognition that an employer has achieved safety and health excellence well above their industry peers.

The VOSH VPP administers the Virginia STAR, Virginia Challenge, VADOC Challenge, Virginia BEST, and Virginia BUILT programs.

For more information about this program or the other services we offer, visit our website at https://www.doli.virginia.gov/voluntary-protection-program/

The Cargill Turkey Production, LLC Harrisonburg Feed Mill in Harrisonburg, Virginia, has been recertified as a Virginia STAR Worksite under the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry's Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP).

Related link: https://www.doli.virginia.gov/

ACES Mortgage QC Industry Trends Report Shows Decline in Critical Defect Rate for Second Consecutive Quarter

DENVER, Colo. /ScoopCloud/ -- ACES Quality Management® (ACES), the leading provider of enterprise quality management and control software for the financial services industry, announced the release of its quarterly ACES Mortgage QC Trends Report covering the first quarter (Q1) of 2021. The latest report provides an analysis of post-closing quality control data derived from ACES Quality Management & Control® software.

Notable findings from the Q1 2021 report include:
* The downward trend in critical defects continued in Q1 2021, ending the quarter at 2.01% versus the prior quarter's rate of 2.09%.

* A rapid rise in the Income/Employment category led all defect categories, with several of the core underwriting/qualification categories increasing as well.

* Declines in the Regulatory Compliance and Loan Documentation categories show that lenders are self-correcting and stabilizing their operations.

* Refinance review share continues to be strong, and defect performance has improved.

* Conventional loans dominated while defect performance declined.

* Early Payment Defaults fall below pre-pandemic levels in a hopeful sign that the worst is behind us, though we remain cautious about loans exiting forbearance status.

"With Q1 2021 marking a second consecutive quarter of decline in the critical defect rate, the record spike observed in Q2 2020 appears to have been a one-off increase, which is encouraging," said ACES Executive Vice President Nick Volpe. "However, lenders and servicers should still proceed with caution, as declines in gain-on-sale, the conclusion of the eviction moratorium, persistent inflation and a potential default wave as forbearances come to an end all have the potential to trigger industry disruption."

Findings for the Q1 2021 ACES Mortgage QC Industry Trends Report are based on post-closing quality control data derived from the ACES Quality Management and Control benchmarking system and incorporates data from prior quarters and/or calendar years, where applicable. All reviews and defect data evaluated for the report were based on loan audits selected by lenders for full file reviews.

"The declines observed in not only the overall critical defect rate, but also in EPDs and the Regulatory Compliance and Loan Documentation defect categories speak to an industry that has made considerable strides to course-correct after the tumultuous year that was 2020," said ACES CEO Trevor Gauthier. "Unfortunately, 2021 may not prove to be any less challenging, which places even greater emphasis on lenders' defect tracking and reporting efforts to remain ahead of the curve and adjust their operations as necessary to stay on track."

Mortgage QC Industry Trends Reports are available for download, free of charge, at https://www.acesquality.com/resources/reports.

About ACES Quality Management®

ACES Quality Management®, formerly known as ACES Risk Management (ARMCO), is the leading provider of enterprise quality management and control software for the financial services industry. The nation's most prominent lenders, servicers and financial institutions rely on ACES Quality Management & Control® software to improve audit throughput and quality while controlling costs, including:
* 3 of the top 5 and more than 50% of the top 50 independent mortgage lenders;

* 7 of the top 10 loan servicers;

* 11 of the top 30 banks; and

* 1 of the top 3 credit unions in the USA.

Unlike other quality control platforms, only ACES delivers Flexible Audit Technology®, which gives independent mortgage lenders and financial institutions the ability to easily manage and customize ACES to meet their business needs without having to rely on IT or other outside resources. Using a customer-centric approach, ACES clients get responsive support and access to our experts to maximize their investment. For more information, visit https://www.acesquality.com/ or call 1-800-858-1598.

ACES Quality Management® (ACES), the leading provider of enterprise quality management and control software for the financial services industry, announced the release of its quarterly ACES Mortgage QC Trends Report covering the first quarter (Q1) of 2021. The latest report provides an analysis of post-closing quality control data derived from ACES Quality Management & Control® software.

Related link: https://www.acesquality.com/

145 New Industrial Manufacturing Planned Industrial Project Reports – August 2021 Recap

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- SalesLeads announced today the August 2021 results for the new planned capital project spending report for the Industrial Manufacturing industry. The Firm tracks North American planned industrial capital project activity; including facility expansions, new plant construction and significant equipment modernization projects. Research confirms 145 new projects in the Industrial Manufacturing sector.

The following are selected highlights on new Industrial Manufacturing industry construction news.

Industrial Manufacturing - By Project Type

Manufacturing/Production Facilities - 122 New Projects

Distribution and Industrial Warehouse - 58 New Projects

Industrial Manufacturing - By Project Scope/Activity

New Construction - 53 New Projects

Expansion - 51 New Projects

Renovations/Equipment Upgrades - 49 New Projects

Plant Closings - 7 New Projects

Industrial Manufacturing - By Project Location (Top 10 States)

North Carolina - 13
Indiana - 11
Texas - 10
Michigan - 9
Pennsylvania - 7
Ohio - 7
California - 7
New York - 6
Georgia - 6
Iowa - 5

Largest Planned Project

During the month of August, our research team identified 14 new Industrial Manufacturing facility construction projects with an estimated value of $100 million or more.

The largest project is owned by Rivian Automotive, who is considering investing $5 billion for the construction of a 12 million sf manufacturing facility and currently seeking a site in the FORT WORTH, TX area.

Top 10 Tracked Industrial Manufacturing Projects

ARIZONA:
Battery cell developer is planning to invest $1 billion for the construction of a 1 million sf manufacturing facility in BUCKEYE, AZ. Construction is expected to start in late 2021, with completion slated for Spring 2023. Construction will occur in multiple phases.

GEORGIA:
Medical device mfr. is planning to invest $500 million for the expansion of their manufacturing, laboratory, office, and training complex in PEACHTREE CORNERS, GA by 750,000 sf. Construction will occur in multiple phases, with completion slated for 2024.

KENTUCKY:
Custom corrugated packaging products mfr. is planning to invest $400 million for the construction of an 1.1 million sf manufacturing facility in HENDERSON, KY. Construction is expected to start in early 2022, with completion slated for Fall 2023.

TEXAS:
Biotechnology company is considering investing $300 million for the construction of a processing facility and is currently seeking a site in the BRYAN, TX area. Watch SalesLeads for updates.

INDIANA:
Steel company is planning to invest $231 million for a 390,000 sf expansion and equipment upgrades of their manufacturing facility in TERRE HAUTE, IN. They are currently seeking approval for the project.

ALABAMA:
Automotive components mfr. is planning to invest $130 million for the construction of a manufacturing facility in OPELIKA, AL. They have recently received approval for the project.

NORTH CAROLINA:
Consumer products mfr. is planning to invest $110 million for the construction of a manufacturing facility in GUILFORD COUNTY, NC. They are currently seeking approval for the project.

TENNESSEE:
Aluminum products mfr. is planning to invest $100 million for an expansion of their manufacturing facility in ALCOA, TN. They have recently received approval for the project.

NORTH CAROLINA:
Outdoor furniture mfr. is planning to invest $62 million for an expansion of their manufacturing facility in ROXBORO, NC. They have recently received approval for the project.

UTAH:
Insulation and roofing products mfr. is planning to invest $53 million for an expansion of their manufacturing facility in NEPHI, UT. They have recently received approval for the project.

Since 1959, SalesLeads, based out of Jacksonville, FL has been providing Industrial Project Reports on companies that are planning significant capital investments in their industrial facilities throughout North America. Our professional research team identifies new construction, expansion, relocation, major renovation, equipment upgrades, and plant closing project opportunities so that our clients can focus sales and marketing resources on the target accounts that have an impending need for their products, services, and indirect materials.

Each month, our team provides hundreds of industrial reports within a variety of industries, including:

* Industrial Manufacturing

* Plastics

* Food and Beverage

* Metals

* Power Generation

* Pulp Paper and Wood

* Oil and Gas

* Mining and Aggregates

* Chemical

* Research and Development

* Distribution and Supply Chain

* Pipelines

* Pharmaceutical

* Misc. Industrial Buildings

* Waste Water Treatment

* Data Centers

MEDIA ONLY CONTACT
Cherise Kennerley
cherise@roi-m.com
847-312-1367 mobile

SalesLeads announced today the August 2021 results for the new planned capital project spending report for the Industrial Manufacturing industry. The Firm tracks North American planned industrial capital project activity; including facility expansions, new plant construction and significant equipment modernization projects.

Related link: https://www.salesleadsinc.com/

Kiosk Industry Event News from Kiosk Manufacturer Association (KMA)

DENVER, Colo. /ScoopCloud/ -- September news for the Kiosk Association. InfoComm (AVIXA) is the biggest digital signage AV show in the U.S. KMA is an official media partner. See a list of exhibitors and information. We have rated this as a "green light" for safety given the safety protocols exceed the recommended CDC guidelines.

October 27-29 is the date and yes we have free passes. Contact craig@catareno.com for more info. Samsung is main sponsor. Also Blackmagic Design and Crestron.

CREATE in Denver this October, begins 10/4 and ends 10/6. We have a limited number of free passes and also free invites to the MenuMaster Awards festivities (hundreds of restaurant leaders meet and greet, enjoying free food and drinks at Mile High). As part of CREATE you can view interactive session with Scott Deviney, CEO of Chicken Salad Chick on restaurant growth strategies. Other speakers include Blaze Pizza, Chipolte, Popeyes, Buffalo Wild Wings, Chicken Salad Chick, Bloomin Brands, Checkers & Rallys, True Food, McDonalds, Yum! Brands, Domino's Pizza, Wingstop, Wendys, Hissho Sushi, & Applebee's Grill & Bar. Contact craig@catareno.com for more info.

M-Enabling Summit in Arlington, VA -- Sachin Dev Pavithran, Executive Director U.S. Access Board will be delivering the keynote. We have a table and you can visit with Laura and Matt of Vispero. Contact craig@catareno.com for more info.

NRF in New York in January -- preparations are underway for our booth for NRF (and also NRA in Chicago)

NEWS THIS MONTH

* Learn About our Sponsors - Intel Corporation and Restaurant Kiosks

* Wayfinding Kiosks - Shoptalk Deploy Acquire Digital's Wayfinding Technology

* New For Sale Items - 24-inch Elotouch Touchscreens - Intellitouch - $300

* Product Brief - Self-Order Kiosks + Universal Tablet Enclosure by Star Micronics

* NRF 2022 Update - Health Policy - Retail Kiosk Event

* ADA Kiosk - FAR Finally Incorporates Revised Section 508

* Kiosk Accessibility - McDonald's Onboard with adding Access for Blind and Low Vision

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS

* Take our Google Forms 2 minute survey and add your company to our upcoming 2022 Market Report: https://forms.gle/pEjEpfYXWyp8ZZLN9

* Vaccine Passport and Vaccine Passport kiosks

* KMA PCI EMV Credit Card Reader Update - Ingenico v6 preview

* ADA Kiosk Checklist 14 Point (Free) - https://kioskindustry.org/regulatory-checklist-for-kiosks-14-point-ada-accessibility-and-pci/

MORE INFORMATION:

For more information contact Craig Keefner, 720-324-1837 or craig@catareno.com or you can visit Kiosk Industry https://kioskindustry.org/

September news for the Kiosk Association. InfoComm (AVIXA) is the biggest digital signage AV show in the U.S. KMA is an official media partner. See a list of exhibitors and information. We have rated this as a "green light" for safety given the safety protocols exceed the recommended CDC guidelines.

Related link: https://kioskindustry.org/

Thousands to Be Tattooed at 19th Annual Boston Tattoo Convention at Hynes Convention Center

BOSTON, Mass. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Boston Tattoo Convention announces its 19th annual gathering in the heart of downtown Boston! The event will be held this weekend Friday September 17 - 19, 2021 at the Hynes Convention Center.

A tradition for the past 18 years, the Boston Tattoo Convention brings together artists, collectors, shops, vendors, performers, and tattoo culture to Boston's Back Bay for a weekend of live tattooing, art, and entertainment. Ticket prices start at just $25!

Event highlights include live tattooing from top-tier tattoo artists, live music and performances, the Miss Boston Ink beauty contest and an after party at King's Boston!

For additional information including the full schedule of events, visit https://bostontattooconvention.com/.

Check out the attending artists' portfolios on Instagram at @bostontattoocon and on https://www.facebook.com/bostontattooconvention.

The Boston Tattoo Convention will be a mask required event. Thank you for doing your part to help us make it a fun and safe event for all! KEEP BOSTON BEAUTIFUL, GET A TATTOO!

Event Media Contact:

info@bostontattooconvention.com

978-744-9393

The Boston Tattoo Convention announces its 19th annual gathering in the heart of downtown Boston! The event will be held this weekend Friday September 17 - 19, 2021 at the Hynes Convention Center.

Related link: https://bostontattooconvention.com/

Sweepstake And Discounts – UltFone Announces Apple iOS 15 Celebration

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- On July 7, Apple, the smartphone brand, announced the beta version of iOS 15 for all users; this announcement was long-awaited, and the revelation brought a wave of excitement amongst iPhone users, who were ready to give their phone an upgraded look. To help iOS users enjoy the upgrade to the fullest, UltFone, a software company specializing in iOS solutions, announced an iOS 15 celebration campaign from 16th Sept to 31st October. This celebration aims to help iOS users make the most of their devices and enjoy the latest version in peace.

The iOS 15 celebration campaign, upon its commencement, is expected to multiply the excitement of all iOS users. It has four different prizes in sweepstakes and a 70% discount on the company's two highest selling products. The celebration event isn't restricted to UltFone or iOS users only, and everybody can avail the discount and participate in the sweepstake. Not to forget, UltFone was the first to come up with a solution to iOS upgrade woes, and these discounts mean a lot to customers that are having troubles with their devices.

UltFone iOS System Repair

UltFone's iOS 15 celebration includes a whopping 70% discount on iOS system repair, which is valid throughout the celebration period. The software has been loved by users all around the world, as it has proven to curb 150 different iOS problems using simple methods. Lately, the software has gained worldwide popularity for its upgrade/downgrade to iOS 15 feature, which allowed great feasibility for users encountering problems during update to the new version.

UltFone iOS Location Changer

UltFone iOS Location Changer is an app that lets you to easily change the GPS location on your iOS device. It also supports the simulated GPS movement through customized routes. Moreover, UltFone has announced a special offer for their valuable customers to celebrate the iOS 15 Release. Buy UltFone iOS Location Changer and get UltFone iOS Data Manager free for a lifetime.

UltFone iOS Backup Unlocker

UltFone iOS Backup is an efficient and reliable solution to remove iTunes backup passwords from iOS devices. The app offers three powerful ways to regain access to your iPhone, which include Brute Force Attack, Brute Force with Mask Attack, & Dictionary Attack. In addition to it, you can win 30 days License of UltFone iPhone Backup Unlocker for free by participating in the giveaway.

How to Participate

You can simply participate in the giveaway by visiting the official website of UltFone.

Participate in Giveaway Now: https://www.UltFone.com/ios-15-release-celebration.html

About UltFone:

UltFone is a professional software provider offering fully integrated solutions for iOS system repair, iOS data recovery, Android data recovery, data transfer, etc. The company is trusted by famous websites, including PCWorld, Macworld, TechRadar, Tech Advisor, and many more.

For more information you may visit the official website of UltFone: https://www.UltFone.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UltFone/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/UltFone

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/UltFoneOfficial

On July 7, Apple, the smartphone brand, announced the beta version of iOS 15 for all users; this announcement was long-awaited, and the revelation brought a wave of excitement amongst iPhone users, who were ready to give their phone an upgraded look. To help iOS users enjoy the upgrade to the fullest, UltFone, a software company specializing in iOS solutions, announced an iOS 15 celebration campaign from 16th Sept to 31st October.

Related link: https://www.ultfone.com/

MAGLITE and Trekin Outdoors! Partner to Encourage the Adventurous Outdoor Lifestyle and Use of MAGLITE Products During Those Adventures

ONTARIO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- MAGLITE and Trekin outdoors! have formed a partnership which will highlight the outdoor adventures of the Trekin Outdoors! team and will include the generous use of Trekin Outdoors! footage in the MAGLITE social media and offer fans of Trekin Outdoors! the chance to win MAGLITE products.

Trekin Outdoors! is a new outdoor TV Show airing on The Sportsman Channel beginning in January of 2022. The show follows two best friends, Chris Queen and Tyler Leipprandt and their crazy Uncle Steve, all from the great state of Michigan as they travel around the country hunting public and private land, for all kinds of creatures.

Their love and passion for the outdoors is only matched by their love and passion for filmmaking. Expect funny, challenging and raw aspects of hunting and being outdoorsmen.

"We are thrilled to be co-branded with MAGLITE," said Chris Queen of Trekin Outdoors!. "This is a brand we pursued as one of our first sponsors because of the quality of the product, my personal relationship with the brand having seen my father and others use Maglite's throughout the years and the fact that is a U.S.A. manufactured product."

"MAGLITE is proud to partner with the team at Trekin Outdoors! to promote the rugged outdoor lifestyle they live and of course we are happy that they have chosen the world-famous MAGLITE brand to be part of their journey," said Anthony Maglica, Founder and Owner of Mag Instrument Inc., manufacturer of the iconic MAGLITE(R) flashlight.

More information about MAGLITE(R) is available at https://maglite.com

MAGLITE and Trekin outdoors! have formed a partnership which will highlight the outdoor adventures of the Trekin Outdoors! team and will include the generous use of Trekin Outdoors! footage in the MAGLITE social media and offer fans of Trekin Outdoors! the chance to win MAGLITE products.

Related link: https://maglite.com/

Beyond Baroque Announces Amanda Gorman Future Voices Poetry Fund

VENICE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Beyond Baroque, one of the nation's leading independent Literary Arts Centers, has announced the Amanda Gorman Future Voices Poetry Fund. The fund, named in honor of Beyond Baroque alumna and U.S. Presidential Inaugural Poet Amanda Gorman, will provide $10,000 to young poets of color.

"It's been wonderful witnessing Amanda's growth from her start in our Student Poets' Program to the Inaugural Poet we see today, and we hope to continue uplifting fellow promising youth poets of color through this fund," said the nonprofit's executive director, Quentin Ring.

"We're looking forward to ushering in new word warriors who can speak for not only themselves but also their respective communities and maybe one day, like Ms. Gorman, the world," added Shonda Buchanan, Vice President of Beyond Baroque's Board of Trustees.

The Amanda Gorman Future Voices Poetry Fund includes a poetry contest and a scholarship for college-bound student poets of color. A total of $10,000 will be awarded for the 2021-2022 school year. The fund continues Beyond Baroque's long history of nurturing some of Los Angeles' most prominent poets, including Wanda Coleman, Amy Gerstler, and Amanda Gorman herself. As a teenager, Gorman began her development as a poet in the Beyond Baroque Student Poets' Program, established by former Executive Director Richard Modiano. After completing the program, she was appointed the first Youth Poet Laureate of Los Angeles, and then of the United States in 2017, by Beyond Baroque partner Urban Word. She later named Beyond Baroque as the place "where a young poet found the love of her life."

The fund will begin accepting applications in November 2021, and more details will be announced in the following months.

To learn more about Beyond Baroque, or to make a contribution in support of the Amanda Gorman Future Voices Poetry Fund, please visit https://www.beyondbaroque.org/.

ABOUT BEYOND BAROQUE:

Beyond Baroque Literary Arts Center is one of the nation's most successful and influential grassroots incubators of the literary arts. Founded in 1968, and housed in the original Venice City Hall building in Venice, California, it is a nonprofit public space dedicated to cultivating new writing and expanding the public's knowledge of poetry, literature, and art through cultural events and community interaction.

The Center offers a diverse variety of literary and arts programming, including readings, workshops, art exhibits, and education. Across five decades, Beyond Baroque has provided crucial support to a series of seminal writers, artists, and musicians that include Wanda Coleman, Dennis Cooper, Amy Gerstler, Exene Cervenka, John Doe, Mike Kelley, Viggo Mortensen, Will Alexander, and Amanda Gorman. Today the Center continues to provide a vital cultural forum through its free workshops, reading series, and general programming.

ABOUT AMANDA GORMAN:

Amanda Gorman is the youngest inaugural poet in U.S. history, as well as an award-winning writer and cum laude graduate of Harvard University, where she studied sociology. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she is the author of the "The Hill We Climb: An Inaugural Poem for the Country" (Viking Books for Young Readers, March 2021), the poetry collection "Call Us What We Carry" (Viking, December 2021) and "The One for Whom Food Is Not Enough" (Penmanship Books, 2015). In 2017, Gorman was named the first-ever National Youth Poet Laureate of the United States. She previously served as the youth poet laureate of Los Angeles, and she is the founder and executive director of One Pen One Page, an organization providing free creative writing programs for underserved youth.

Beyond Baroque Literary Arts Center, 681 Venice Blvd, Venice, CA 90291.

Beyond Baroque, one of the nation's leading independent Literary Arts Centers, has announced the Amanda Gorman Future Voices Poetry Fund. The fund, named in honor of Beyond Baroque alumna and U.S. Presidential Inaugural Poet Amanda Gorman, will provide $10,000 to young poets of color.

Related link: http://beyondbaroque.org/

HomeBinder joins The Mortgage Collaborative’s Preferred Partner Network

BOSTON, Mass. /ScoopCloud/ -- HomeBinder, a centralized home management platform that keeps homeowners connected with mortgage lenders, Realtors, and other authorized professionals, today announced it has joined The Mortgage Collaborative's (TMC) Preferred Partner Network. The new membership enables HomeBinder to offer preferential pricing to TMC's nearly 150 member banks, credit unions and independent mortgage banking companies. Trusted by over 600,000 homeowners to date, HomeBinder simplifies homeownership, improves home values and increases repeat and referral business for mortgage lenders and Realtors.

"HomeBinder is an exciting addition to the TMC Preferred Partner Network that offers a fresh competitive advantage to Lender Members," said Steven A. Milner, founder and CEO of nationally licensed direct mortgage lender US Mortgage Corporation for 28 years and a TMC board member. "A core value here at US Mortgage is to 'seek longevity.' It is a belief that informs everything from how we make business decisions of the long-term success of the company in mind to how we foster a work environment where employees want to build a lifelong career. We also seek longevity in our client relationships, and in that quest we seek to become a lender for life to all our clients. HomeBinder is the ideal partner to Lender Members for that purpose."

By partnering with HomeBinder, mortgage lenders can furnish each borrower with an online platform designed to make managing a home and maintaining its value easier. HomeBinder features include document storage, maintenance reminders, appliance recall notifications, a digital home inventory and more. The platform also helps lenders and real estate agents stay connected with clients long after the home sale thanks to prominent placement of their contact information within each borrower's HomeBinder.

"Our mission is to deliver homeowners peace of mind and optimize their home's value by being the bridge between them and the businesses that support their ownership," said HomeBinder Founder and CEO Jack Huntress. "We are delighted to join The Mortgage Collaborative and look forward to working with lenders who share our vision of supporting the homeownership journey and see the value in having deeper, longer-lasting relationships with their clients."

"We started The Mortgage Collaborative eight years ago to leverage the collective power of the lending community, share ideas and become more efficient and profitable together," said TMC CEO Jim Park. "We welcome HomeBinder as our newest Preferred Partner and encourage our Lender Members to see for themselves how this powerful little app engages borrowers and keeps lender relationships sticky at the same time."

HomeBinder comes with plug-and-play integrations with Encompass(r) by ICE Mortgage Technology(tm), Salesforce and other leading mortgage loan origination software (LOS) and customer relationship management (CRM) platforms. For more information, visit https://pages.homebinder.com/lenders or book a demo today!

About HomeBinder:

HomeBinder is a home management platform that makes maintaining a home's value easy while improving relationships between homeowners and the businesses that serve them. Unlike traditional leave-behinds like business cards and refrigerator magnets, HomeBinder maintains an ongoing digital connection with homeowners as they manage their data, documents and relationships over time. Founded in 2015, HomeBinder is a venture-backed Techstars Boston '19 company headquartered in Burlington, Massachusetts. For more information, visit https://pages.homebinder.com/.

About The Mortgage Collaborative:

Based in San Diego, Calif., The Mortgage Collaborative was founded in 2013 by four notable industry leaders and is the nation's largest independent mortgage cooperative network. TMC is singularly focused on creating an environment of collaboration and innovation for small to midsize mortgage lenders across the country to reduce cost, increase profitability, and better serve the dynamic and changing consumer base in America. For more information, visit https://www.mortgagecollaborative.com.

Twitter: @MtgCoop @HomeBinder

HomeBinder, a centralized home management platform that keeps homeowners connected with mortgage lenders, Realtors, and other authorized professionals, today announced it has joined The Mortgage Collaborative's (TMC) Preferred Partner Network. The new membership enables HomeBinder to offer preferential pricing to TMC's nearly 150 member banks, credit unions and independent mortgage banking companies.

Related link: https://pages.homebinder.com/

Malcolm-Jamal Warner Joins Exit 36 Slam Poetry Festival as Celebrity Judge

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Pompano Beach Arts is proud to announce that television icon Malcolm-Jamal Warner is joining the fourth annual "Exit 36 Slam Poetry Festival" as a celebrity judge. The famed star of "The Cosby Show" and current hit "The Resident" will also be performing his poetry at the festival and sharing thoughts about his career during an Artist Talk.

The three-day event attracts the premier spoken word artists in the country and will take place December 9-11, 2021 at the City's cultural venues. Event details and tickets are available at https://www.pompanobeacharts.org/exit36.

"We are honored that actor and poet Malcolm-Jamal Warner will be a judge at this year's festival. His participation will shine the national spotlight on an event that is growing in prestige every year," said Phyllis Korab, Director, Cultural Affair Department. "Warner stole our hearts as a lovable Huxtable kid in the 80s and is now gaining raves as Dr. Andre Jeremiah Austin on the hit show 'The Resident.' But many do not realize the acclaimed actor is also a leading voice in the spoken word realm."

Warner, who is a Grammy(R) Award-winner, has tackled many important issues with his spoken word performances including problems with the penal system and in 2020 he chronicled life as a black man with his film "Word Warriors III."

Warner has said, "Poetry had always been a huge part of my life. My father went to Lincoln University with Gil Scott-Heron and Brian Jackson, so I literally came out of the womb listening to Gil Scott-Heron. So, poetry's always been a huge part of the expression of self."

The Exit 36 Slam Poetry Festival was founded by Eccentrich, one of the top-ranking female poets in the country. She developed the platform to serve the community through educational, theatrical, and literary performances. The festival showcases local, regional, and nationally recognized poets, while educating and encouraging self-expression in local youth.

"Now more than ever, spoken word artists are shaping the cultural and social dialogue in our country," said Eccentrich. "This form of expression empowers those who have felt unheard, providing platform to address both deeply personal situations and larger global issues. We are excited to return for our fourth year, and we look forward working with a dynamic group of participants."

TICKET AND SCHEDULE INFORMATION:

Tickets are $10 a day or $25 for a festival pass, available at https://www.pompanobeacharts.org/exit36

* Thursday, December 9, 2021

Bailey Contemporary Arts Center

Artist Talk & Happy Hour 6p to 7p (In-person and virtually via zoom)

Prelim bout - 7p to 8p (In-person and virtually via zoom)

Artist Market & pop-up poetry - 8p to 9p

* Friday, December 10, 2021

Blanche Ely House Museum

Lunch Time Story Slam - 12p to 1p (In-person and virtually via zoom)

Pompano Beach Cultural Center

Artist Talk - 6p to 7p (In-person and virtually via zoom)

Prelim bout 7p to 8p (In-person and virtually via zoom)

Artist Market & Cyphers - 8p to 9p

* Saturday, December 11, 2021

Pompano Beach Cultural Center

Final Stage - 7p to 10p (In-person and virtually via zoom)

About the City of Pompano Beach Cultural Affairs Department

The mission of the Cultural Affairs Department is to provide cultural programming that includes visual arts, digital media, music, film, theater, dance and public art for the enjoyment and enrichment of residents and visitors to Pompano Beach, Broward County, and the greater South Florida area. The department programs and manages the City's premiere cultural arts venues including the Pompano Beach Cultural Center, Ali Cultural Arts Center, Bailey Contemporary Arts Center, and the Blanche Ely House Museum. The department also oversees the City's Public Art Program and the prestigious National Endowment for the Arts' Our Town grant awarded to the Pompano Beach Crossroads place-making arts initiative.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Kay Renz

Kay@KRPRMediaGroup.com

Pompano Beach Arts is proud to announce that television icon Malcolm-Jamal Warner is joining the fourth annual "Exit 36 Slam Poetry Festival" as a celebrity judge. The famed star of "The Cosby Show" and current hit "The Resident" will also be performing his poetry at the festival and sharing thoughts about his career during an Artist Talk.

Related link: https://www.pompanobeacharts.org/

The Spodak Dental Group Transitions to Four-Day Work Week

DELRAY BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Spodak Dental Group transitioned to a four-day work week in 2021 with a goal to take the very best care of each team member. After the turmoil of a 2020 year filled with the uncertainty, stress and additional regulations due to COVID-19, the family-owned company realized that there was a great opportunity to provide each team member with a flexible schedule that supports a greater work life balance.

"We focus on providing our patients with an amazing human experience in our office, so it made sense to dedicate similar focus to our valued team members," said Dr. Craig Spodak, general dentist at Spodak Dental Group. "Allowing our team members to work four days a week provides them with the additional support they need to live their best lives in and out of the office."

Studies show that reducing the amount of days that an employee has to work not only increases productivity and engagement, but also reduces the amount of sick and personal days requested.

The Spodak Dental Group is proud to be a team member-focused company and offers each team member the benefits that matter most to them, whether that be a flexible work schedule with remote work options, 401(k) matching, paid continuing education courses, company-sponsored social events and team building retreats, and more.

The Spodak Dental Group, 2017 Inc. 5000 honoree, has evolved to become South Florida's premier, comprehensive dental facility, and comprises a world-class association of dental professionals poised to provide full-service dental care second-to-none in both scope and skill. The Spodak Dental Group team includes General and Restorative Dentists, Endodontists, Periodontists, Board Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, Master Ceramic Artists, and Anesthesiologists and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists, as well as one of the nation's only in-office dental labs.

Spodak Dental Group is located at 3911 W. Atlantic Ave. Call or text (561) 303-2413 or visit https://www.SpodakDental.com for more information or to schedule a virtual or in-office appointment.

The Spodak Dental Group transitioned to a four-day work week in 2021 with a goal to take the very best care of each team member. After the turmoil of a 2020 year filled with the uncertainty, stress and additional regulations due to COVID-19, the family-owned company realized that there was a great opportunity to provide each team member with a flexible schedule that supports a greater work life balance.

Related link: https://www.spodakdental.com/

Get Ready for New Licensed Character for Advertising and Toys: Here Comes Black Friday

MIAMI, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The day after the American Thanksgiving Day holiday has long been considered the biggest shopping day of the year in the United States. Dubbed "Black Friday" for many reasons, shopping on that day (via brick and mortar or e-commerce) has become part of the holiday tradition for most consumers. Empire License, Inc. is now very excited to introduce to the world their very own version of Black Friday: "Black Friday" the character, in the formation of animation and plush dolls.

As the preferences and habits of consumers change and evolve, so has Black Friday. The day Black Friday is now known and celebrated throughout the world. Of our 195 countries an estimated 50 to 60% celebrate Black Friday in one form or another. The day and phrase have had great exposure over the past years and is growing by leaps and bounds with no ending in sight.

"Consumers will see our 'Black Friday' character in many different settings," says E.L. Williams, company CEO and co-creator of the Black Friday character. In the channel of advertising, Walmart, Amazon and Target are three of the largest retailers in the United States. The three giants are always in a battle for greater market share, especially during the holiday period. Empire believes they have the solution for either company gaining that extra advantage using their Black Friday character as their company pitchman. "This would be the ideal situation for any company wanting to evolve into a powerhouse, not necessarily any of the three mentioned above," adds Williams.

Holiday shopping kicks off in November, Empire has created an animated family television show that will air prior to holiday shopping, it's a show created for the kids and parents as well: "Black Friday's Magical Christmas." The show will be filled with family holiday fun, adventure and of course holiday marketing. The show was created to hype the holiday season and get consumers motivated and ready to go, regardless of situations they may be experiencing. The message is that there are deals out there for everyone and who knows this better than the man himself, Black Friday.

In the channel of trade of toys and dolls, Black Friday is available for licensing, just give him a squeeze and he will say one of an array of given lines. The character doll will be available for sale during the Christmas holidays only.

Lastly, the Black Friday Loyalty Rewards Card will be introduced. "We truly feel that the companies participating in our Black Friday Licensing Campaign will benefit in a myriad of ways," says Williams. "It would be great to work with the large companies as well as the small, watching the small evolve into the giants they all have the potential to become."

For more information or to contact Empire License to become a partner visit: https://bfcharacter.com/ / https://www.empirelicense.com/ or phone: 1-888-714-3577.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Emory Williams

elwill1@yahoo.com

305-407-6010

MULTIMEDIA:

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0913s2p-black-Friday-300dpi.jpg

*Caption: "Black Friday" the character, in the form of animation and plush dolls.

The day after the American Thanksgiving Day holiday has long been considered the biggest shopping day of the year in the United States. Dubbed "Black Friday" for many reasons. Empire License, Inc. is now very excited to introduce to the world their very own version of Black Friday: "Black Friday" the character, in the formation of animation and plush dolls.

Related link: https://www.empirelicense.com/

Loren Data Launches New Portal with Advanced Visibility and B2B Onboarding Support

MARINA DEL REY, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Loren Data Corp. (LD.com), a leader in B2B eCommerce communications technology, announced today that they have introduced a new user interface for their clients.

"Enabling secure transaction management and real-time administration of our customers' trading communities is a central tenet of the new ECGrid Portal," said Crystal Kuczynski, VP of Customer Success at Loren Data Corp. "During our development, we have worked directly with many of our partners and customers to collaborate on a customer experience which allows rich visibility and self-service tools to rapidly enable new connections and new trading partners and ensure the right experience for our users. Foundational eCommerce was a key partner in this project."

"Loren Data has been an integral part of Foundational's service offerings and a strategic technology partner for many years," said Brian Eckenrod, the Director of Operations at Foundational eCommerce. "Loren Data's commitment to their partners and their customer-focused approach to innovation fits perfectly with our values. When offered the opportunity to aid in the design and beta test their new customer portal, we were eager to do so. Loren Data's willingness to work collaboratively with their customers and partners is a clear driver to our continued partnership. Having our feedback heard and acted upon makes a real difference when it is related to tools you use every day."

The new portal leverages the core API technologies of ECGrid to provide a holistic view into all production EDI and B2B transactions. The ECGrid dashboard, analytics, and exception-based tools ensure users have the tools to improve resolution times and support their business processes in real-time.

About Loren Data Corp:

Loren Data Corp is a leading B2B eCommerce and supply chain automation company, providing innovative, efficient and high-value solutions for businesses to collaborate with an integrated supply chain. With its flagship cloud and web services offerings - ECGrid - Loren Data delivers a world-class, self-service, unified EDI and B2B messaging platform for Managed Service Providers and Global 2000 companies to transact business with their trading partners with rich API support and legacy network connections.

About Foundational e-Business:

Foundational e-Business is a Pittsburgh based division of Paragon Consulting, specializing in managed EDI and e-business services. We offer a cost effective and easy to implement managed EDI service, where we act as the outsourced EDI department for our customers. Foundational staff has decades of experience with EDI in various industries, including steel processing, manufacturing, distribution, and logistics. Foundational can be reached by email via info@getfoundational.com or by phone at 888-657-2345.

Media/Press
IR/Marketing
Office: 310-827-7400
marketing@ld.com

Loren Data Corp., a leader in B2B eCommerce communications technology, announced today that they have introduced a new user interface for their clients. The new portal leverages the core API technologies of ECGrid to provide a holistic view into all production EDI and B2B transactions.

Related link: https://www.ld.com/

Move For Hunger and Mayflower Transit Announce a New Partnership to Help Fight Hunger in the United States

RED BANK, N.J. /ScoopCloud/ -- Mayflower Transit, the nation's most recognized and trusted moving company, and Move For Hunger, a national hunger relief non-profit organization, announced today a brand new partnership that will provide much-needed transportation assistance to food banks in the United States while also contributing more than 125,000 meals.

Since its founding in 2009, Move For Hunger has delivered more than 24 million pounds of food - over 20 million meals - across all 50 states and in Canada. The organization continues to increase its impact year after year and is on pace to deliver a record 6 million meals this year alone. The new partnership with Mayflower Transit will only increase its impact.

Mayflower Transit joins an ever-growing network of 1,000+ movers and transportation partners dedicated to fighting food insecurity. Mayflower Transit began with a vision to give people a choice, providing an alternative to using railroads to move household goods. A growing network of paved roads in the early 20th century further enabled long-distance trucking, and thus began Mayflower's foundation as a trailblazer in the moving industry. Over the past 90 years, Mayflower has helped America move with 200 affiliated agents. Mayflower Transit is part of UniGroup, C.A., a cooperative based in suburban St. Louis, Missouri, and also owns the nation's #1 mover United Van Lines, UniGroup Logistics and more.

The new partnership couldn't come at a more important time. After nearly a decade of slowly declining food insecurity in the U.S., the pandemic wiped out the progress made and increased the total number of people struggling to put food on the table to 42 million Americans (1 in 8). Now, the country faces the uncertainty of what the COVID Delta variant will bring as we head into the cooler months when food insecurity usually increases.

"We cannot be more excited about our new partnership with Move For Hunger," President and CEO Marc Rogers said. "The partnership fits hand-in-hand with Mayflower's philanthropic mission to fortify the communities in which we serve through eliminating food waste and fighting hunger. At Mayflower we are seeking new opportunities and pathways to progress that go well beyond simply moving our customer's safely. A partnership with Move For Hunger pairs one of the nation's experts in ensuring millions of meals every year reach the homes of those in need with our vast transportation network. Together, we will be able to increase food security in the communities that need it most."

"I'm thrilled to join forces with Mayflower Transit," said Adam Lowy, Executive Director and Founder of Move For Hunger. "They're so widely respected and with agents everywhere, we can be that much more effective in our food rescue efforts. Thirty-five percent of all food in the United States goes unused or uneaten. At the same time, people are struggling in every state. The addition of Mayflower and its agents will help put more food in the hands of people who need it most."

About Move For Hunger

Move For Hunger (501(c)(3) is a national non-profit organization that has created a sustainable way to reduce food waste and fight hunger. We have mobilized the leaders of moving, relocation, and multi-family industries to provide their customers, clients, and residents with the opportunity to donate their food when they move. Members of Move For Hunger also organize community food drives, participate in awareness campaigns, and create employee engagement programs. For more information, or to find out how you can host your own food drive, visit https://moveforhunger.org/.

About UniGroup

UniGroup is a $1.4 billion transportation and relocation services company with headquarters in suburban St. Louis. In addition to household goods carriers United Van Lines and Mayflower Transit, logistics company UniGroup Logistics, and international relocation provider UniGroup Worldwide Moving, UniGroup owns other subsidiaries providing goods and services to professional movers. Visit http://www.unigroup.com/ for more information.

About Mayflower

Mayflower is America's most recognized and trusted moving company. Mayflower offers a full range of moving services. With headquarters in suburban St. Louis, Mayflower maintains a network of 200 affiliated agencies. For more information about Mayflower Transit and its services, visit: http://www.mayflower.com/.

Mayflower Transit, the nation's most recognized and trusted moving company, and Move For Hunger, a national hunger relief non-profit organization, announced today a brand new partnership that will provide much-needed transportation assistance to food banks in the United States while also contributing more than 125,000 meals.

Related link: https://moveforhunger.org/

STRATAC Receives 3 Gold and 1 Silver 2021 MUSE Creative Awards

AUSTIN, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- The 2021 MUSE Awards programs are now officially closed now that winners have been announced. Taking in 4,876 entries from all over the world in both the MUSE Creative Awards and the MUSE Design Awards, the competition has demonstrated itself to be one of the leading programs in honoring excellent individuals in the creative and design fields.

STRATAC has won the Insurance Website of the Year Gold, Self-Promotion Video of the Year Gold, Direct Marketing Branded Content of the Year Gold, and the Business to Business Video of the Year Silver awards in the competition, for their clients Gun and Trophy Insurance, Nisos, and VirPack.

"It was gratifying to be recognized for our work in these 4 different categories. We appreciate the trust our clients place in us - in our strategy, tactics, vision, and creativity. Especially in a year where 'thinking outside the box' became the only 'norm' - we were grateful for clients who were willing to take the leap and stay the course with their outbound efforts," stated Virginia Stewart Case, CEO. "This industry recognition has been a validation of our efforts and we are grateful to be among such enterprising competition for a second year in a row."

The MUSA Awards programs stay true to their objective of honoring professionals in both creative and design spaces, promoting the entrants' excellent works. The International Awards Associate (IAA), is the creator of these awards and upholds impartiality by enacting strict assessment criteria and organization of a jury made up of industry professionals, who are living examples of excellence themselves.

The Jury and Evaluation Process

With 46 jurors casting votes from 25 countries, the awards ensure that a diverse panel of qualified professionals are adjudicating the competition. These individuals can be found working under leading companies from the creative and design industries, such as Associate Creative Director of MullenLowe Renato Barreto, Visual Communication Design Specialist at United Nations Children's Fund Shangning Wang, Creative Director of BEAMY Ronn Lee, Creative Director of ADBRAIN Inc. Masanori Eto, Dr Adjunct Associate Professor and Design Director of Irving Smith Architects Jeremy Smith, Founder and Creative Director of Kre8ive Partners Mark Turner, Owner and Founder of UArchitects Misak Terzibasiyan, etc.

Every entry is assessed based on relevant standards pertaining to their respective industries in order to ensure impartiality. Further, blind judging is exercised, as such jurors are only able to assess each entry purely on its own merits.

ABOUT STRATAC

STRATAC provides strategic advice, comprehensive research, and tactical marketing services for B2B and B2C clients in the technology space. We take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to psychology as it pertains to Sales, Operations, Marketing, and Employee Engagement, which allows us to elevate businesses and help them go to market or return to market. As a User Experience Design (UXD) agency, we help our clients shape a positive perception of their brands while creating memorable, positive engagements for their customers.

Learn more at https://stratac.com/.

Website: MUSE Creative Awards / MUSE Design Awards

Facebook: MUSE Awards

Twitter: MUSE Awards

Instagram: MUSE Awards

The 2021 MUSE Awards programs are now officially closed now that winners have been announced. Taking in 4,876 entries from all over the world in both the MUSE Creative Awards and the MUSE Design Awards, the competition has demonstrated itself to be one of the leading programs in honoring excellent individuals in the creative and design fields.

Related link: https://stratac.com/

Logistical Labs Launches Updated User Interface for LoadDex Product

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Logistical Labs, creator of innovative technology that takes the complexity out of shipping, announced today the release of their updated user interface for their LoadDex product. The new version will showcase a simpler design and a more user-friendly approach, with the same features as the previous version but now with more functionality including quick access to search history, batch rating, and a much smoother quoting workflow.

"Logistical Labs is so excited to release this new version of LoadDex," said Jonathan Evans, Managing Director of Products and Sales at Logistical Labs. "The new design will allow users to reduce clicks, save time, and utilize better negotiating power, leading to better customer opportunities."

KEY FEATURES INCLUDE:

* Single Search. With a simpler design and a more user-friendly approach, users can enjoy all of the features of the previous version along with even more functionality including quick access to search history, batch rating, and a much smoother quoting workflow.

* Search History. Our users have spoken, and we've listened! You now have access to all of your previous searches so you can see the rate provided at the time of the search. Tired of re-entering the same lane information multiple times? Now you can just find the lane in your search history, click edit, and re-run your search without having to type it all over again.

* Batch Search. Users can now easily batch rate a selection of lanes directly in the page! You'll no longer have to navigate to our import/export page in order to run multiple lanes at once. And don't worry, if it's a large file, it can run in the background while you perform other functions in LoadDex. Once it's completed, you'll get a notification, and you can access the .csv files from the all-new search history panel.

* Send Quote. It now takes only two clicks to send a quote! Just click the send button and press send again in the pop-up box to confirm you're ready to send the quote out.

* Save Quote. It only takes a single click to save a quote with the new quote page. Instead of dealing with a pop-up box with several fields that you may not need, you just click the button and you're done.

* Edit Quote. You are still able to access the fields that were available on the old platform by clicking the edit button. This will take you to a new page with a newly designed form that is much simpler to navigate to the fields you need to fill out or update. Along with the form, you'll have easy access to the originally suggested LoadDex rate that remains fixed on the screen no matter how far you've scrolled down the form.

You can learn more about Logistical Labs' suite of products here - https://www.logisticallabs.com/products/

About Logistical Labs

Logistical Labs creates innovative technology that takes the complexity out of shipping and opens up new possibilities across the supply chain. Logistical Labs' pricing platform, LoadDex, drastically simplifies pricing and carrier selection across all modes. With a single search, users can compare thousands of rates from all types of transportation providers at once. Using LoadDex, users can make better-informed pricing and quoting decisions through data-driven insights and social collaboration. Open API access allows users to easily integrate LoadDex into their existing business applications for improved process efficiency.

For more information, visit https://www.logisticallabs.com/

Logistical Labs, creator of innovative technology that takes the complexity out of shipping, announced today the release of their updated user interface for their LoadDex product. The new version will showcase a simpler design and a more user-friendly approach, with the same features as the previous version but now with more functionality including quick access to search history, batch rating, and a much smoother quoting workflow.

Related link: https://www.logisticallabs.com/

The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Names Steiner Realty, Inc a Winner of the Pittsburgh Top Workplaces Award for the Third Year in a Row

PITTSBURGH, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- Steiner Realty, Inc. announces their designation as one of Pittsburgh's 2021 Top Workplaces. Steiner Realty has been awarded a Top Workplaces 2021 honor by The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette for the third year in a row.

The list is based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey administered by research partner Energage, LLC, a leading provider of technology-based employee engagement tools. The anonymous survey measures several aspects of workplace culture, including alignment, execution, and connection, just to name a few.

"During this very challenging time, Top Workplaces has proven to be a beacon of light for organizations, as well as a sign of resiliency and strong business performance," said Eric Rubino, Energage CEO. "When you give your employees a voice, you come together to navigate challenges and shape your path forward. Top Workplaces draw on real-time insights into what works best for their organizations, so they can make informed decisions that have a positive impact on their people and their business."

"For over 30 years, Steiner Realty has acknowledged the value of our people by providing a company culture that inspires personal growth and professional excellence," said Casey Steiner, President/CEO of Steiner. "This culture, which also centers around commitment and work ethic to facilitate safe and comfortable housing for our tenants, is contagious. We recognize that each and every member of Steiner Realty contributes to and directly shares in our success and our people are a significant part of why we continue to thrive.

"In that light, we are extremely pleased to have been recognized once again by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette as a Top Work Place. This award validates that we truly are continuing to provide a healthy and inclusive work environment for our people, who are our company's greatest asset. Congratulations to all of our team members for helping to support our success."

About Steiner Realty:

Steiner Realty, Inc. is a Pittsburgh-based real estate brokerage firm owned and operated by Clarence H. (Casey) Steiner since 1989. Steiner Realty, Inc. currently manages over 1600+ rental units in the Greater Pittsburgh area in a mix of luxury loft apartments, community apartment complexes, small apartment buildings and high-rises, as well as single-family homes and townhouses. In addition to office staff, Steiner Realty employs a full-service maintenance staff to handle all aspects of property maintenance, repair, and updating. http://www.steiner-realty.com/ @SteinerRealty @SteinerRealty

About Energage

Energage offers a fully unified SaaS platform, plus support and professional services, to help organizations recruit and retain the right talent. As a B-Corporation founding member, Energage has committed itself to the purpose of making the world a better place to work together. Based on 14 years of culture research, the engine behind 51 Top Workplaces programs across the country, and data gathered from over 20 million employees at 60,000 organizations, Energage has isolated the 15 drivers of engaged cultures that are critical to the success of any business, and developed the tools and expertise to help organizations measure, shape and showcase their unique culture to achieve a sustainable competitive advantage. For more information, please visit https://www.energage.com/. Follow us on Twitter @teamenergage and Facebook and LinkedIn @energage.

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-0823s2p-casey-steiner-300dpi.jpg

Steiner Realty, Inc. announces their designation as one of Pittsburgh's 2021 Top Workplaces. Steiner Realty has been awarded a Top Workplaces 2021 honor by The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette for the third year in a row.

Related link: https://www.steiner-realty.com/

Scientology Volunteer Ministers: 9/11 Inspired an Unshakable Commitment to Serve

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- The sheer scope and inhumanity of the World Trade Center attack united Scientologists around the world to do everything in their power to create a better world, beginning that very day with New York Scientologists in their signature bright yellow Volunteer Ministers T-shirts immediately heading downtown.

The Church of Scientology International honors the rescue workers who responded to 9/11: Of the 2,977 killed in the September 11 attacks, 412 were emergency workers who rushed to the scene to save lives.

Within hours of hijackers crashing American Airlines Flight 11 into the North Tower of the World Trade Center, New York's Volunteer Ministers had clearance to be at the disaster site to provide support to emergency personnel and help bring order to the chaos.

For first responders, there was no respite. This was a race against time with thousands of personnel frantically tearing through a mountain of debris - exhausted, dazed, distraught, and running on nothing but adrenalin.

"I was on the site 10 minutes after the second tower collapsed, and it was a ghost town," said a lieutenant of the New York Fire Department, since retired. "And it just proceeded to get more and more chaotic, because guys were arriving, there was no order. And when the Scientologists arrived, an air of order entered in."

The Volunteer Ministers immediately set up a place where first responders could regroup, grab a cold drink and a hot meal. Rescue teams soon began calling the makeshift service center "Freedom Café."

"At any time, well over 100 Volunteer Ministers from the Church of Scientology mill around the remains of the World Trade Center," wrote The New York Times. "On the day of the attack, they took in food to workers....When rescue workers stagger from the wreckage, the ministers, identified by their T-shirts, try to focus the workers' minds and revive their bodies."

Volunteer Ministers are trained to deliver Scientology assists, simple procedures developed by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard that provide relief by addressing the emotional and spiritual factors in stress and trauma. For exhausted rescue workers, physically and emotionally drained, Scientology assists relieved the tension, lightened their spirits, and allowed them to unwind enough to grab a few hours of sleep.

Scientologists continued arriving from across the United States and abroad. Some 800 Volunteer Ministers served, providing relief 24/7 to rescue and cleanup teams. And they continued to serve until the entire project was completed more than eight months later.

"There's a lot of very highly stressed, worn out, exhausted rescue people here," said the head of one rescue team, "and your contribution to helping them to deal with their problems and deal with their upset emotions, and to have some tranquility and rest has been a very, very productive and very worthwhile effort."

"The Volunteer Ministers worked with great energy and great compassion at Ground Zero, helping to ease the physical burdens and mental strains of the rescue workers," wrote a New York Police Chief in thanks. "The organization, the caring, and the dedication of your Volunteer Ministers were exceptional, very much appreciated, and will long be remembered by those who received their help."

On September 11, 2001, Mr. David Miscavige, ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, called on Scientologists around the world to view what occurred that day as a "wake-up call." "No one can afford to turn a blind eye to what just happened," he wrote.

This appeal immediately inspired astonishing growth within the Volunteer Minister program. As of September 11, 2001, there were 6,000 Volunteer Ministers worldwide. Today, they are among the world's most widely recognized independent relief organizations, with over 200,000 Volunteer Ministers on call internationally.

For more information, visit the Scientology Newsroom or watch Destination: New York on the Scientology Network, available on DIRECTV Channel 320 and streaming at scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

MULTIMEDIA:

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0911s2p-cos-911-300dpi.jpg

*Caption: More than 800 Volunteer Ministers from across the U.S. and abroad served at Ground Zero in New York.

The sheer scope and inhumanity of the World Trade Center attack united Scientologists around the world to do everything in their power to create a better world, beginning that very day with New York Scientologists in their signature bright yellow Volunteer Ministers T-shirts immediately heading downtown.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

ViewTech Borescopes Exhibiting at FABTECH and MINExpo International 2021

TRAVERSE City, Mich. /ScoopCloud/ -- As two of the largest trade shows in the United States return after COVID-19 forced a hiatus, ViewTech Borescopes will be one of the thousands of exhibitors featuring the latest machinery and technology next week during FABTECH and MINExpo International. FABTECH 2021 will be taking place at the McCormick Place in Chicago from September 13-16, while MINExpo International is being held at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas from September 13-15. With both events the pillar for their respective industry, ViewTech Borescopes is expecting the return of face-to-face exhibiting to generate many new business connections requiring remote visual inspection equipment.

Returning to exhibit at FABTECH for the sixth time, ViewTech Borescopes will be in the welding pavilion at booth B20066. With the integrity of welds requiring verification, ViewTech's VJ-3 Dual Camera provides technicians visual access through both a forward-facing and 90-degree angle camera. Featuring 360-degree articulation, along with full-color image and video capture capability, inspecting residual deposits or the quality and color of the weld bead is quick and easy process. In addition to the VJ-3 Dual Camera, ViewTech Borescopes will also have on hand the VJ-3 Far Focus, VJ-3 3.9mm, and VJ-3 2.8mm.

For the first time, ViewTech Borescopes is exhibiting at MINExpo International and will be located inside the South Hall at booth 27340. MINExpo International is the world's largest and most comprehensive mining event, drawing over 40,000 attendees. ViewTech is eager to demonstrate several borescopes from their lineup, including how the VJ-3 Far Focus video borescope can assist mining industry professionals with their maintenance and inspection requirements. As the newest ViewTech borescope available for sale, the VJ-3 Far Focus features an illumination output of 60,000lux, which is three times brighter than the standard VJ-3 video borescope and sees clearly beyond the normally short focal distance of standard industrial borescopes.

VJ-3 Video Borescope

The VJ-3 mechanical articulating video borescope is a nondestructive visual testing instrument used for the remote visual inspection of machinery, equipment, and components. The VJ-3 facilitates the visual recording and photo documentation of an inspection and components in areas that are otherwise inaccessible or require great effort and expense to access directly. The VJ-3 consists of two modules integrated into one system: an insertion tube with distally mounted camera/LEDs, and the base unit with control panel, LCD monitor, power source and all necessary circuitry.

About ViewTech Borescopes

ViewTech Borescopes, founded as RF System Lab in 2008, is North America's #1 seller of video borescopes. Their first product, the VJ borescope, set a new standard for portability, ergonomics and ease-of-use, with its industry-first mechanical, joystick-controlled articulation.

Learn more: https://www.viewtech.com

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0910s2p-viewtech-300dpi.jpg

As two of the largest trade shows in the United States return after COVID-19 forced a hiatus, ViewTech Borescopes will be one of the thousands of exhibitors featuring the latest machinery and technology next week during FABTECH and MINExpo International. FABTECH 2021 will be taking place at the McCormick Place in Chicago September 13-16, while MINExpo International is being held at the Las Vegas Convention Center September 13-15.

Related link: https://www.ViewTech.com

iCell Gene Therapeutics Announces cCAR-T Clinical Publication in the Stem Cell Reviews and Reports Journal

STONY BROOK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- iCell Gene Therapeutics, a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company focused on immunotherapies for hematologic malignancies, solid tumors, organ rejections and autoimmune disorders, today announced the publication of their clinical study utilizing cCAR T-cell immunotherapy to successfully treat a patient with lupus. Their CAR is directed against CD19 and BCMA surface proteins generating a cCAR with dual expression of CD19 and BCMA CAR molecules. Their cCAR is one of a kind in the family of engineered CAR T-cells researchers are studying.

Their report "Treatment of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Using BCMA-CD19 Compound CAR" published on August 30, 2021, shows the clinical success of cCAR in treating a patient with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE).

According to Dr. Yupo Ma, founder of iCell Gene Therapeutics, "After a single infusion of CD19-BCMA cCAR the patient achieved undetectable levels of autoantibodies that mediate SLE, successfully treating the patient's SLE for 2 years without the need for additional medications."

The publication is available online at https://doi.org/10.1007/s12015-021-10251-6.

About SLE

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an antibody-mediated autoimmune disease, in which autoantibodies attack its own tissues, resulting in widespread tissue damage in the affected organs including kidneys, lungs, joints, brain and blood vessels. According to the Lupus Foundation of America, it estimates that 1.5 million Americans, and at least five million people worldwide, have a form of lupus.

About CD19-BCMA cCAR Therapy

iCell has developed a novel compound Chimeric Antigen Receptor (cCAR)approach. In this approach, the cCAR T cells express two distinct and fully functional CAR molecules, one that targets the molecule CD19 present on B cells and one that targets BCMA, which is present on plasma cells. In their recently published paper, researchers have shown that this cCAR led to rapid and dramatic decreases in B cell levels and levels of "autoantibodies" (antibodies that attack the body's own cells) in a patient with SLE.

As B cells are part of the normal immune system, it is preferable that the elimination of B cells be temporary. After 9 months of B cell depletion, the patient's B cells returned to normal. Importantly, the levels of autoantibodies remained undetectable. Based on these results, the researchers concluded that cCAR effectively "reset" the antibody-producing populations. In this "reset," the problematic cell populations were removed, leaving behind a fresh, clean slate. From this, new B cells and plasma cells were eventually formed, which did not have the same autoantibody-producing properties. Because of this, the patient has not had further lupus symptoms despite receiving no additional medications for over 2 years.

Given the prevalence of antibody-mediated disorders, this cCAR may prove useful for a variety of different medical conditions.

Sjögren's Syndrome, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder, celiac disease, type 1 diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and multiple sclerosis all incorporate autoantibody formation in disease pathogenesis. Additionally, organ rejection following transplantation may be mediated by antibodies. By "resetting" the immune system prior to organ transplantation, this antibody-mediated rejection may be avoided. More research is needed on the long-term efficacy and safety of this treatment, but future applications of cCAR has a large window of opportunity.

About iCell Gene Therapeutics

iCell Gene Therapeutics, located in Stony Brook, New York, is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing first-in-class chimeric antigen receptor engineered cells. Their main focuses are on autoimmune disorders, AML, and T-cell malignancies. Their current clinical trials utilize their CARvac, T-cell targeted CARs, cCARs and non-gene edited universal CARs engineered as treatments for cancer, organ rejections and autoimmune diseases. These studies are ongoing in the US and China for their use.

For more information, please visit http://icellgene.com/

CONTACT:
Media and Investors
Kevin Pinz
Tel: (631) 538-6218
Kevin.pinz@icellgene.com

RELATED LINKS:

https://www.lupus.org/resources/how-many-people-have-lupus-in-the-united-states

https://www.lupus.org/resources/what-is-lupus

iCell Gene Therapeutics, a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company focused on immunotherapies for hematologic malignancies, solid tumors, organ rejections and autoimmune disorders, today announced the publication of their clinical study utilizing cCAR T-cell immunotherapy to successfully treat a patient with lupus.

Related link: http://icellgene.com/

Lime Group, LLC to offer customized digital marketing services

FLORENCE, Ala. /ScoopCloud/ -- As a result of continued growth and client success, Lime Group, LLC, will begin offering marketing services tailored to specific business' needs and goals. In the past, Lime Group has offered a flat rate for access to all of their resources from website development and maintenance to social media management and print advertising. Thanks to feedback from clients and the expansion of services, the company will now be offering customized services so that everyone pays for what they need and no more.

"A lot of people were paying one price a month for us to do everything for them, but not every business needs everything we offer," said owner, Brian Williamson. "Now, we can get them exactly what they need so they're not paying for what they don't. We also have moved to quarterly agreements instead of yearly so that services can be turned on or off according to a clients' needs during slow months of the year."

Customers will be able to choose from numerous services, including:

* Website Design & Maintenance

* Search Engine Optimization

* App Development & Maintenance

* Social Media Marketing

* Graphic Design and Branding

* Press Releases & Content Creation

* Email & SMS Marketing

* Pay Per Click & Social Media Advertising & Management

* Consultations for small Businesses just getting started

* and other services as needed!

"The continued support of our customers has enormously helped us in two different ways," Williamson said. "They've supported us in a way that has allowed us to grow and expand in a way that will ultimately benefit them and get them exactly what they need. And the clients we have had, both recently and for a long time, have given incredible feedback that lets us know that we're doing things awesome, we just need to offer some less than others."

With this increase in specialized services, prices overall will see an increase; however, the cost differential will be small since the packages are customizable instead of all-inclusive.

"If we're going to offer specific services, we want to give our clients the best of the best, and that means we have to employ more people," Williamson said. "That said, clients are going to see the results they want to see in a much more sustainable way that's worth it."

Learn more at: https://www.limegroupllc.com/experience

ABOUT LIME GROUP, LLC:

Offering marketing and technology solutions Since 2010, our team helps businesses get ahead of the competition by utilizing our knowledge and skills. Our willingness to explore new concepts, trends, programs and platforms defines our approach to marketing and exemplifies our appreciation for challenging, unique projects.

Learn more at: https://www.limegroupllc.com/

For questions about Lime Group, LLC, services offered, or pricing, please contact Brian Williamson at jr@limegroupllc.com.

As a result of continued growth and client success, Lime Group, LLC, will begin offering marketing services tailored to specific business' needs and goals. In the past, Lime Group has offered a flat rate for access to all of their resources from website development and maintenance to social media management and print advertising.

Related link: https://www.limegroupllc.com/

Balodana to compete as a finalist in the 2021 Go Global Awards

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- The International Trade Council announced this week that fashion startup Balodana has been chosen as a finalist for its prestigious 2021 Go Global Awards. This global competition celebrates the companies that are driving the economy forward through their innovations, technologies and strategies. Out of over 4,300 applicant companies from around the world, Balodana has ranked within the top 20 percent and will pitch in front of judges in the Women in Business category.

The Awards bring together hundreds of senior executives from some of the world's most innovative manufacturers, re-manufacturers and exporters, along with representatives from government bodies, trade associations, venture capital firms and financial institutions. The program aims to build a community of manufacturers, exporters and related service providers to support one another, share ideas, create partnerships and build on their existing knowledge and connections.

"As a global marketplace ourselves, Balodana is proud and humbled at the chance to compete against such a diverse array of innovative companies from all over the world," said Dana Todd, CEO of Balodana. "The International Trade Council continues to impress with its focus on global collaboration and growth, and particularly in its support for startups like us who are working at the supply chain level to meet the world's changing needs."

Winners of the Go Global Awards gain access to unique international platforms through the extensive International Trade Council's network of more than 176 countries and over 418 professional organizations worldwide. Finalist pitches will be publicly available during the Go Global Awards Judging Day on Tuesday, Sept. 14, 2021. Interested parties are encouraged to register at https://www.airmeet.com/e/03dd3e60-f8cc-11eb-838b-e568775d064b.

About Balodana LLC

Balodana is the only multi-brand custom clothing marketplace that inspires and perfectly fits women who want to master the art of the first impression. In an era in which consumers expect personalized experiences, tailor-made clothing is not only personal but the most sustainable way to buy new garments today. We curate designers and on-demand custom manufacturers worldwide who specialize in women's made to measure clothing. Customers use their secure measurement profile to shop hundreds of custom style patterns in all price ranges and categories. The company was launched in 2019 serving US markets, with expansion plans to Canada and Europe in 2022.

Learn more at https://www.balodana.com/.

Press Contact:
Nisha Katti, nisha.katti@balodana.com
Ph. +1 312-701-3262

The International Trade Council announced this week that fashion startup Balodana has been chosen as a finalist for its prestigious 2021 Go Global Awards. This global competition celebrates the companies that are driving the economy forward through their innovations, technologies and strategies.

Related link: https://www.balodana.com/

New MBS Fintech Agile Revolutionizes Trading with the Launch of RFQ Platform

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- Agile, a new fintech bringing mortgage lenders and broker dealers on to a single electronic platform, has formally announced the launch of its flagship RFQ (request for quote) platform. All MBS market participants can now participate on an electronic platform that expedites the exchange of To-Be-Announced Mortgage-Backed Securities (TBAs).

Despite the rise of electronic trading and digitization of financial services, MBS trading has largely been conducted over the phone. Phone-based trading is slow and impractical in generating numerous competitive bids. Agile is introducing a new, electronic way to quote MBS through a browser-based platform that digitizes the process of buying and selling TBAs. As a result, Agile enables the user to efficiently generate more competitive bids compared to legacy phone-based processes. (*See note 1.)

"Our mission is to bring the mortgage capital markets into a new digital era," comments Curtis Richins, President & CEO of Agile. "We're democratizing the TBA Market for lenders and dealers both big and small. We created Agile because we believe that a transparent market is a better market and because every counterparty deserves access to a fair, efficient and transparent marketplace."

Agile was developed with direct feedback from mortgage lenders and broker-dealers, resulting in a powerful platform that integrates smoothly with existing processes. With the browser-based platform, lenders can request trades from any device, anywhere. Agile's three step process for digital TBA trading communication can help lenders improve efficiency, while expanding the number of quotes they receive and their network of counterparties. For the first time, all mortgage lenders can trade with regional and primary dealers electronically.

Agile's initial roll-out began January 1, 2021 and demonstrated rapid adoption across the mortgage secondary market. Agile has supported 261 financial institutions who have exchanged 95.6 thousand quotes. (*See note 2.) Lenders have been quick to welcome the benefits of the new platform.

Early adopter Andrew Stringer (Director of Secondary/Capital Markets at First Bank), said, "After a busy conference day, I found myself with moments left to optimize coverage before market close. A few taps in Agile and I was done! No calls, no computer, no manual calculations - just a quick TBA trade and back to unwinding after a long day."

Agile has already received strong participation from the broker-dealer community, thanks to new opportunities for growth and operational improvement. Agile provides access to an ever-growing network of lenders, facilitates increased quote requests from approved counterparties, and delivers the efficiencies of a digital trade desk. Broker-dealers also have the benefit of straight-through processing with leading trade order management systems. Featured broker-dealers currently on the platform include, but are not limited to, the following: BMO Financial, BOK Financial Securities, CMG Securities, Daiwa Capital Markets, ED&F Man, Huntington Securities, Janney Montgomery Scott, JVB Financial, Performance Trust, Raymond James, South Street Securities, Stifel, Nicolaus & Co, and StoneX.

Brent Giese, Executive Director of Fixed Income at Daiwa Capital Markets America, said: "Working with Agile has been very productive and beneficial to Daiwa's growing mortgage banking sales franchise. With access to many qualified mortgage originators, the platform provides an efficient means to reach significant volumes. The technology is advanced and allows for effective performance feedback while their straight though processing capability eliminates costly trade errors. Simply put, I have been very impressed and am thankful to have this valued partnership."

About Agile

The industry's first MBS fintech, Agile brings together lenders and dealers of all sizes onto a single platform. Agile facilitates the exchange of TBA MBS by securing and automating communication between mortgage lenders and broker-dealers. Agile digitizes the historically phone-based process to an electronic platform which may improve profitability and efficiency, while reducing administrative errors. Through its competitive TBA RFQ digital platform, mortgage lenders gain access to national and regional broker-dealers previously inaccessible on digital platforms, while broker-dealers gain access to an ever-growing network of lenders. Based in Philadelphia, Agile Trading Technologies supports a national network of clients with a team of capital markets professionals who have deep trading experience at financial organizations of every size.

For more information, visit https://trade-agile.com/ or call (619) 332-6205.

Media Contact:
Vested
Agile@fullyvested.com

NOTES:

[1] MCT Study of Digital RFQ Implementation, see Works Cited for details.

[2] Agile RFQ Platform Usage Data 2021 YTD Summary Report.

WORKS CITED

Testimonials may not be representative of the experience of other clients, and past results are not a guarantee of future performance or success.

Benefits and metrics listed in this document were sourced from the MCT Study of Digital RFQ Implementation, July 2021 found at https://mct-trading.com/study-of-digital-rfq-implementation/. Mortgage Capital Trading (MCT) is a client of Agile Trading Technologies and active user of the Agile RFQ platform.

This study measured the change in phone use, productivity, and TBA execution associated with the implementation of Agile Trading Technology's RFQ platform (Agile RFQ), as well as the experiences of platform users. The study encompassed over 250 mortgage lender clients of MCT who either used Agile RFQ to support their own TBA trading, or Agile RFQ was used by MCT traders to support TBA trading on their behalf. The study measured the month of January 2021 (after implementation) against the month of January 2020 (before implementation). Data was collected through MCT reports on TBA trading activity and surveys of platform users. Possible limitations of the study include the relatively narrow time period of measurement and the combination of qualitative and quantitative data used for measurement.

MULTIMEDIA:

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0909s2p-agile-logo-300dpi.jpg

Agile, a new fintech bringing mortgage lenders and broker dealers on to a single electronic platform, has formally announced the launch of its flagship RFQ (request for quote) platform. All MBS market participants can now participate on an electronic platform that expedites the exchange of To-Be-Announced Mortgage-Backed Securities (TBAs).

Related link: https://trade-agile.com/

Current Builders Announces New Sunrise Senior Living Commission

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Current Builders ( https://www.currentbuilders.com/ ) has announced they have broken ground on their third project for Sunrise Senior Living. The new $32.5 million dollar assisted living development in Coral Gables will feature 94 units. The project's architect is the firm's longstanding design partners, Behar Font & Partners.

This project follows Current Builders' successful delivery of the Jacksonville and Boynton Beach Sunrise Senior Living projects.

"We are very proud of our continued relationship with the Sunrise Senior Living team," said Michael C. Taylor, CEO. "Providing the finest quality housing for our aging population is one of our firm's specialties, and we look forward to creating another outstanding project in Coral Gables."

This conventional/post tensioned project is located at 1000 Ponce de Leon Boulevard with an anticipated completion date of late 2022.

Sunrise Senior Living is a McLean, Va.-based company, operating 324 communities in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom.

About Current Builders:

Current Builders is an award-winning general contractor, established in 1972 with average annual revenues of $250 Million. Current Builders specializes in multi-family residential projects, retail, office/warehouse buildings, commercial distribution facilities, parking garages, interior build-outs, interior and exterior renovations, all included as turnkey projects inclusive of the construction of the buildings and related site work.

Current Builders has announced they have broken ground on their third project for Sunrise Senior Living. The new $32.5 million dollar assisted living development in Coral Gables will feature 94 units. The project's architect is the firm's longstanding design partners, Behar Font & Partners.

Related link: http://www.currentbuilders.com/

Los Altos CA Woman Recognized for Work Helping Women Who Feel Unsafe in Their Own Home

LOS ALTOS, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Local woman, Ruth Darlene, founder and executive director of WomenSV, earns two national awards from DomesticShelters.org, a Midpeninsula Media Center award, and a $250,000 grant by Santa Clara County for her work helping women who feel unsafe in their own home.

Darlene was honored for her stellar work helping women in the throes of an abusive relationship and also bringing awareness of covert abuse and coercive control by training police officers, therapists, physicians, legal counsel, and others within the judicial system.

Along with the emphasis on training and education, WomenSV is also different from other domestic violence agencies in that Ruth assists women facing all forms of abuse including non-physical violence such as financial, legal, emotional, technological, and the many other ways that the abuser can keep control of his partner. Ruth has counseled women whose partner threatened he would take away their children, render her homeless, and ruin her career.

These victims of "hidden" abuse are in every socio-economic demographic of the Bay Area. The abusers are often smart, charming, and calculating and keep their abusive behavior behind closed doors. The recent passing of SB 1141 into law under Family Code 6320 incorporates coercive control into the definition of domestic violence and will help Ruth and her team promote the right of every woman and child to live in peace and safety in their own home.

WomenSV has helped over a thousand women since its inception in 2011. Ruth's tireless efforts have earned her several outstanding recognitions this year:

* DomesticShelters.org National Program/Shelter of the Year (< $500,000);

* National Program/Shelter Executive of the Year (< $500,000)

* Midpeninsula Media Center Local Hero Award

* Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors Grant of $250,000

Additional details can be found here:

Domestic Shelters Purple Ribbon Awards - https://www.domesticshelters.org/awards/winners

Midpeninsula Media Center Local Hero Award - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A0iCv44FuyU

Board of Supervisors $250K grant announcement - https://www.losaltosonline.com/community/womensv-receives-250k-from-county/article_e79dbe28-d602-11eb-a04f-4f53f61352f6.html

Learn more about WomenSV at https://www.womensv.org/

Local woman, Ruth Darlene, founder and executive director of WomenSV, earns two national awards from DomesticShelters.org, a Midpeninsula Media Center award, and a $250,000 grant by Santa Clara County for her work helping women who feel unsafe in their own home.

Related link: https://www.womensv.org/

Whiteoak Invests in Amplify-Now to Accelerate Global Expansion and Development

REDONDO BEACH, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Amplify-Now, a leading provider of Strategy Execution Management software headquartered in Adelaide, Australia, announced that Whiteoak, a growth-equity firm based in Sydney, Australia, plans to invest in their company to help spur global growth and product development ambitions. The investment news followed Amplify-Now's recent expansion into its North American headquarters, near Los Angeles.

"We wanted to accelerate the success we've achieved with an investment firm that provides a combination of capital and deep strategic support," Matt Williams, CEO of Amplify-Now, says. "Whiteoak has a successful track record for supporting Australian-headquartered companies to succeed in global expansion."

The investment is the second in the $100M Whiteoak Growth Fund, securing a majority stake in Amplify-Now.

Greg Garvin, Whiteoak's Managing Director, says that, "Amplify-Now has achieved global success by offering a software solution that provides a single source of truth to help manage complex transformation programs within large organizations. Clients love that the solution is intuitive and easy to set up and can be configured for many applications including: Business Transformations, Post-merger integrations, ESG change programs and Digital Transformations."

Other companies backed by Whiteoak include: Lack of Color (also in the fund), a fashion label; SkinKandy, a jewelry and piercing business; Priava, a venue management platform; Status Anxiety, a popular handbag label; and The Healthy Mommy, an online weight loss and health community for mothers.

About Amplify-Now

Since 2013, Amplify-Now has offered Benefits Realization and Strategy Execution Management (SEM). Its SEM software enables organizations to execute strategies that create business value for their customers and investors. The software supports transformation programs from end-to-end, supporting portfolio planning through value realization.

To support a global roster of corporate and consulting clients, it's headquartered in Adelaide, Australia with offices in Los Angeles, CA and West Sussex, UK.

For more information: https://amplify-now.com/

About Whiteoak

Whiteoak was founded in 2016 by Richard Whiteoak as an independent investment firm with a distinctive approach to investing capital in private Australian companies. Its mission is to accelerate the growth of high-quality companies by providing capital and deep strategic support.

For more information: https://www.whiteoak.com/

MULTIMEDIA

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0809s2p-amplify-now-300dpi.jpg

Amplify-Now, a leading provider of Strategy Execution Management software headquartered in Adelaide, Australia, announced that Whiteoak, a growth-equity firm based in Sydney, Australia, plans to invest in their company to help spur global growth and product development ambitions..

Related link: https://amplify-now.com/

1st Class Real Estate and Expetitle Announce a Joint Venture to Provide Tech-enabled Closings Across The U.S.

MIAMI, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Expetitle and 1st Class Real Estate are joining forces to create a national title partnership; offering a streamlined, remote home closing transaction to 1st Class' customers. 1st Class Real Estate is a nationally recognized top brokerage. They have grown 470% over the past three years, placing them on the Inc 5000 list of the fastest growing private companies in America.

"With all the new tech-enabled competitors coming into the market, like iBuyers, digital brokers, and alternative marketplaces, brokerages need to respond with digital innovation of their own. Consumers today expect to be able to do everything on their phone," said Sean Daly, Expetitle's CEO. "Expetitle's partnership model gives brokers the tools they need to stay relevant, while also opening up a new income stream from title insurance commissions."

1st Class Real Estate will first launch fully remote and hybrid closings through a secure platform and mobile app in Florida and Georgia, but eventually plans to roll the service out to all 50 offices nationwide.

"This joint-venture with Expetitle allows us to leverage technology to process our clients' closings more efficiently and with higher service levels. It eliminates the unknowns in a transaction by providing all parties with real-time information on any device in just a few clicks, giving our agents and their clients the confidence that their closings will happen on schedule," said Buddy Buchner, VP Franchise Development of 1st Class Real Estate.

About Expetitle

Expetitle is a multi-state title company that delivers fully digital and hybrid closings through one secure collaborative platform that adds transparency to the entire closing process. Expetitle's mission is to provide a better, transparent closing experience for buyers, sellers, and their agents and brokers. Today's consumer is used to doing everything on their phone in real-time, why should buying a home be any different? To learn more about Expetitle, visit https://www.expetitle.com/.

About 1st Class Real Estate

1st Class Real Estate, founded in 2013 by Rhyan Finch (Chief Executive Officer) started with only a handful of agents and has rapidly grown to multiple locations in states nationwide. 1st Class's proven model has the software, systems, procedures, and support staff in place for every process you can think of including office operation procedures, lead generation, marketing & branding, closing coordination, inside sales agents, agent training, and more! To learn more about 1st Class Real Estate, visit https://www.1stclassrealestate.com/.

Expetitle and 1st Class Real Estate are joining forces to create a national title partnership; offering a streamlined, remote home closing transaction to 1st Class' customers. Expetitle is a multi-state title company that delivers fully digital and hybrid closings through one secure collaborative platform that adds transparency to the entire closing process.

Related link: https://www.expetitle.com/

2021 VOSH Voluntary Protection Programs

RICHMOND, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- Emerson Machine Automation Solution in Charlottesville, Virginia, has been reapproved as a Virginia STAR Worksite under the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry's Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP).

Emerson Machine Automation Solution is one of 36 current participants in the STAR program of public/private sector worksites to achieve and retain this recognition. Emerson employees design and build electronic control devices for a wide range of automating processes for paper mills, steel mills, power generation, mining, refining, large material handling, and propulsion of marine vessels. The Charlottesville facility was built in 1980 and operated by General Electric Company (GE) until Emerson Electric Company purchased the site in 2019. The main plant is comprised of 395,000 square feet. Currently, there are 326 full-time employees at this site with an average of 17 contract workers.

The Virginia VPP recognizes and promotes exceptional safety and health management systems for Virginia's employers in all industries. In VPP, the participant's management, workers, and VOSH establish a cooperative relationship that encourages continuous improvement in worksite safety performance.

Acceptance into Virginia's VPP is confirmation and recognition that an employer has achieved safety and health excellence well above their industry peers. The VOSH VPP administers the Virginia STAR, Virginia Challenge, VADOC Challenge, Virginia BEST, and Virginia BUILT programs.

For more information about this program or the other services we offer, visit our website at https://www.doli.virginia.gov/voluntary-protection-program/

Emerson Machine Automation Solution in Charlottesville, Virginia, has been reapproved as a Virginia STAR Worksite under the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry's Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP).

Related link: https://www.doli.virginia.gov/