Tag Archives: Orange County Business

5 BARS to Develop Wireless Marketing Plan and Small Cell Program for the City of Fresno, California

IRVINE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- 5 Bars Communities, dba XG Communities, a premier provider of wireless master plans, asset marketing agreements and engineering services for cities and municipalities across the United States, announced today an agreement to develop a Wireless Marketing Plan for the City of Fresno, California.

5 Bars(r) Communities has entered into a multi-year agreement with the City of Fresno and will begin marketing the city's assets for small cell and wireless use. This effort will enhance the ability of Fresno's citizens to access high speed wireless connectivity throughout the city. The comprehensive program encompasses intelligent infrastructure technologies, Smart City initiatives and 5G wireless planning.

"This plan allows the City of Fresno to move forward in our 'Smart City' efforts while identifying innovative funding streams that are a part of our ongoing strategy of prudent fiscal management," said Fresno Mayor Lee Brand.

As wireless carriers densify existing networks, it is estimated that the industry will deploy hundreds of thousands of small cells, making it increasingly difficult for cities to manage the applications process. In collaboration with the carriers, 5 Bars will streamline applications with a predictable process while preserving aesthetics. The State of California is looking to pass preemptive legislation SB649 intended to reduce control over ROW.

"We are excited to move forward with 5 Bars and this agreement in order to bring greater coverage to our City, create a platform for Smart City initiatives and drive new revenue to Fresno," said Bryon Horn, CIO, Fresno.

"We are thrilled to be working alongside the City of Fresno's leadership as they look to advance their wireless footprint in the growing environment for 5G and Smart City infrastructure," said Monnie McGaffigan, President, 5 Bars Communities.

5 Bars will act as an advocate for the City, offering its intelligent platform which provides an ongoing solution that identifies opportunities for wireless collocation, while minimizing impacts from wireless facility siting decisions. The decision for Fresno to partner with 5 Bars was based on maintaining control, preventing visual blight and increasing connectivity for businesses, residents and citizens. The solution will be the basis to deploy Smart City, enhance business investment, and improve city services.

About 5 Bars Communities:

5 Bars Communities, dba XG Communities in Irvine, California. A premier provider of Small Cell Wireless Marketing Plans and engineering services for Communities, developing comprehensive wireless strategies.

About Fresno:

In the Top 10 Largest Cities in California with 515,609 residents. 24th most livable city in the U.S. for people 35 and under! The city has become an economic hub of the San Joaquin Valley. With a robust public infrastructure, Fresno equals quality lifestyle with a low cost of living and numerous National Parks.

More information: http://5bars.com/communities

Media Contact:
5 Bars Communities
(949) 514-4617
info@5bars.com

5 Bars Communities, dba XG Communities, a premier provider of wireless master plans, asset marketing agreements and engineering services for cities and municipalities across the United States, announced today an agreement to develop a Wireless Marketing Plan for the City of Fresno, California.

Mortgage Automation Pioneer cloudvirga Raises $15 Million in Series B Funding

IRVINE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- cloudvirga(SM), developer of the automated, cloud-based intelligent Mortgage Platform(R) (iMP), announced today it has raised $15 million in a series B funding round led by Incenter, a Blackstone Group portfolio company. The new funding will support cloudvirga as it scales its technology and expands its product offerings.

Cloudvirga's flagship mortgage point-of-sale (POS) system, the iMP empowers consumers to take the helm of a completely re-engineered mortgage workflow that automates the entire initial disclosures process and delivers unmatched transaction speed and efficiency to both borrowers and lenders. Central to cloudvirga's success is its ability to maintain strict regulatory compliance, reduce time to close and save lenders money by moving many traditional back-office tasks to the front of the loan process.

"Unprecedented mortgage regulation has exacerbated an already labor-intensive lending process and inconsistent consumer experience, making our solution more viable than ever," said Kyle Kamrooz, co-founder of cloudvirga. "We are thrilled to have the support of such a well-respected group of investors and look forward to continuing to shake up an antiquated industry process."

According to a key investor spokesperson, the mortgage industry is at a technological tipping point that is uniquely addressed by cloudvirga's innovation and enterprise solution. A fintech company at its core, cloudvirga launched its iMP in early 2016 and has since partnered with several mega and mid-tier lenders to process more than $15 billion in loans.

About cloudvirga(SM)
Cloudvirga is the company behind the cloud-based intelligent Mortgage Platform(R) (iMP) designed to streamline the mortgage process. The platform is digitizing the mortgage industry by leveraging data and deploying an automated workflow to reduce overall cost, increase transparency and shorten the time it takes to close a loan for both borrowers and lenders. Founded by Bill Dallas, Kyle Kamrooz and Mark Attaway, seasoned financial veterans with a proven track record of building mortgage-related technologies, cloudvirga is disrupting the antiquated mortgage industry.

For more information, visit http://www.cloudvirga.com/ or follow cloudvirga on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company-beta/7577062/.

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Cloudvirga(SM), developer of the automated, cloud-based intelligent Mortgage Platform(R) (iMP), announced today it has raised $15 million in a series B funding round led by Incenter, a Blackstone Group portfolio company. The new funding will support cloudvirga as it scales its technology and expands its product offerings.

Alessandro Feitosa joins 5 Bars as Vice President, Solution Engineering

IRVINE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- 5 BARS(R) announced today that Alessandro Feitosa has joined 5 Bars as Vice President, Solution Engineering. Alessandro brings 15 years of experience and expertise in the sports and technology space. He has led strategic pursuits and deployments across the globe.

Alessandro has been involved with the design, engineering, installation and management of high density Wi-Fi networks, including World Cup Soccer, MLB, NHL and NBA facilities as well as dozens of stadiums worldwide.

Prior to joining 5 Bars, Alessandro held key technology roles at Nokia, Cisco, Juniper Networks and Ruckus Wireless.

"We are beyond thrilled to have Alessandro join the 5 Bars team," said Monnie McGaffigan, President of 5 Bars. "His expertise in this space is second to none and anyone that has worked with Alessandro appreciates his experience and commitment to excellence."

About 5 Bars:

5 Bars is an Irvine, California based, privately held premier provider of Wireless Master Plans for Counties, Cities, Stadiums and Large Scale Venues developing comprehensive wireless strategies through a unique holistic view of all assets, coverage and capacity.

5 Bars offers fully managed wireless solutions, network development, ownership and end-to-end management delivering commercial indoor and outdoor distributed antenna systems (DAS), carrier-grade Wi-Fi networks, and small cell systems on behalf of cities, properties and service providers.

For more information, visit http://5bars.com/.

Media Contact:
5 Bars
(949) 514-4617
info@5bars.com

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5 BARS(R) is a U.S. registered trademark.

5 BARS(R) announced today that Alessandro Feitosa has joined 5 Bars as Vice President, Solution Engineering. Alessandro brings 15 years of experience and expertise in the sports and technology space. He has led strategic pursuits and deployments across the globe.

Simple Recovery Announces its In-network Services with Anthem Blue Cross

COSTA MESA, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Simple Recovery, www.simple-recovery.com, a leading Chemical Dependency Treatment Center in Orange County, California, announced today their ability to provide in-network addiction treatment services through 14 major insurance carriers, including Anthem Blue Cross. The announcement is a significant indication that Simple Recovery is committed to providing the highest quality care to as many individuals as possible.

Simple Recovery underwent a demanding clinical evaluation with several managed care organizations to obtain in-network contracts, most recently with Anthem Blue Cross.

"As a Joint Commission accredited behavioral healthcare organization, the high standards required by in-network payers aligned well with our organizational culture and practices," noted Dr. Stephen Odom, CEO of New Vista Behavioral Health, the parent company of Simple Recovery.

Serving over 8.3 million members in California alone, Anthem Blue Cross covers more Californians than any other PPO insurance provider in the state. Data from the California Department of Insurance asserts that 35 percent of Californians have Anthem Blue Cross as their insurance carrier.

"Our partnership with managed care companies is a crucial element of the high-quality and high-value services we provide at Simple Recovery, and we are honored to become an in-network provider," said Dr. Odom. "When Simple Recovery became an in-network provider with most major carriers, not only could we continue to provide the high-quality treatment services that we are known for, but we can now also provide help to more people within their preferred provider networks."

Since opening its doors in 2012, Simple Recovery has helped hundreds of individuals and their families recover from drug and alcohol addiction. Their in-network provider list now includes Aetna Behavioral Health, American Mental Health Network, Anthem Blue Cross, Beacon Health Strategies, LLC (formerly Valueoptions), ComPsych, HMC Healthworks, Integration Behavioral Health (IBH), Magellan Health which manages many California Blue Shield plans), Managed Health Network (MHN), Multiplan, Network by Design, and Western Growers.

About Simple Recovery:

Founded in 2012, Simple Recovery is a Joint Commission Accredited, California licensed and certified, 18-bed residential and extended care program for men and women. Their addiction treatment program seeks to meet each client where they are at in their addiction and help them incorporate their newfound sobriety into their existing world. The achievement and maintenance of sobriety, success and self-respect occurs through both the drug and alcohol treatment process and behavioral change. Simple's successful model bridges the gap between the confines of treatment and real life.

About New Vista Behavioral Health:

New Vista Behavioral Health's mission is to provide innovative, client-centered, evidence-based, treatment solutions to create a healthy and productive new vista for recovery and success. Their centers offer sub-acute detox, residential, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and outpatient services for clients facing Substance Use and Co-Occurring Disorders.

For more information about Simple Recovery and the services they provide, please visit http://www.simple-recovery.com/ or call 888-207-0965.

Media Contact:
Chelsea Brigham, Clinical Outreach Manager
425-890-5162
Chelsea.brigham@newvistabh.com

Simple Recovery, a leading Chemical Dependency Treatment Center in Orange County, California, announced today their ability to provide in-network addiction treatment services through 14 major insurance carriers, including Anthem Blue Cross.

5 BARS Resets the Wi-Fi ‘BAR’ for Wireless Data Usage and Performance During Sunday’s Super Bowl LI

IRVINE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- 5 BARS(R), a premier provider of wireless solutions, set a new record for any single-day wireless data usage event on the Wi-Fi system installed and operating at NRG Stadium. During Super Bowl LI, the Wi-Fi system recorded data usage of 12.2 TB, exceeding last year's record from Levi Stadium.

Overall data usage exceeded 40 TB when cellular data usage is included. Verizon reported a 57% increase over last year with 11 terabytes of cellular data usage. AT&T reported an 88% increase to 9.8 terabytes. Sprint reported a three-fold increase to 5.0 terabytes. T-Mobile reported data usage nearly twice as much as usual, with 2.1 terabytes reported last year.

5 Bars worked with the NFL, Verizon, Super Bowl Host Committee, Harris County Sports & Convention Corporation and SMG to plan, design and build the technologically advanced high density Wi-Fi network to support the specific needs of the sellout crowds at NRG Stadium for the 2017 Super Bowl. Connectivity was the top priority to ensure maximum fan interaction during the big game.

"We are beyond pleased with the performance of the network 5 Bars delivered to NRG Stadium on Sunday. The day was filled with new records and unexpected outcomes, and we are so proud to be a part of history," said Monnie McGaffigan, President of 5 Bars. "The partnership and team work involved to bring a state of the art Wi-Fi network and exceptional experience to 77,000 fans was nothing short of herculean," declared McGaffigan.

About 5 Bars:

5 Bars is an Irvine, California based, privately held premier provider of Wireless Master Plans for Counties, Cities and Large Scale Venues developing comprehensive wireless strategies through a unique holistic view of all assets, coverage and capacity. 5 Bars offers fully managed wireless solutions, network development, ownership and end-to-end management delivering commercial indoor and outdoor distributed antenna systems (DAS), carrier-grade Wi-Fi networks, and small cell systems on behalf of properties and service providers.

For more information visit http://www.5bars.com/.

*PHOTO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/17-0208s2p-nrg5bars-300dpi.jpg

MEDIA CONTACT:
5 Bars
(949) 514-4617
info@5bars.com

5 BARS(R), a premier provider of wireless solutions, set a new record for any single-day wireless data usage event on the Wi-Fi system installed and operating at NRG Stadium. During Super Bowl LI, the Wi-Fi system recorded data usage of 12.2 TB, exceeding last year's record from Levi Stadium.

EPIC Strengthens Southern California Benefits Team with the Acquisition of Benefit Compass

IRVINE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property & casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today it has acquired Benefit Compass Insurance Services, LLC, a specialist in employee benefits brokerage and consulting services.

Based in Irvine, Calif., Benefit Compass provides employee benefit solutions, human resource consulting and employee engagement strategies, with a particular specialty focus on the unique needs of auto dealers.

Benefit Compass will further broaden the specialized benefits and HR consulting services available to EPIC clients, particularly new car auto dealers - a long time area of expertise and focus for EPIC, the broker providing Workers' Compensation Insurance and Employee Benefits Programs to members of the California New Car Dealers Association since 2011.

"The addition of the Benefit Compass team is an exciting development in the continuing growth of EPIC," said John Connell, EPIC President, Employee Benefits of California. "Our clients benefit significantly when we add top professionals like the Benefit Compass team with unique and highly specialized consulting skills and experience."

Benefit Compass co-founders Ron Joy, Alison McCallum and Mark Pattinson added, "We are very proud of the fact that we have always adhered to the simple philosophy of doing what's in the best interest of our clients, and are extremely pleased that this philosophy aligns strongly with EPIC's own culture and values. As part of EPIC, we have access to more resources, experienced professionals in multiple disciplines, and extensive insurance company relationships - all of which will provide added value to our current and future clients."

Since The Carlyle Group became the firm's major investment partner in December 2013, EPIC has nearly tripled revenues, from roughly $80 million to current run rate revenues exceeding $200 million.

About EPIC:
EPIC is a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm. EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC now has more than 850 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to more than 13,000 clients.

With more than $200 million in revenues, EPIC ranks among the top 20 retail insurance brokers in the United States. Supported by the Carlyle Group, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit http://www.epicbrokers.com/.

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EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property & casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today it has acquired Benefit Compass Insurance Services, LLC, a specialist in employee benefits brokerage and consulting services.

5 BARS Positions NRG Stadium As One of the Most Connected Stadiums

IRVINE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- 5 BARS(R), a premier provider of wireless solutions, has positioned NRG Stadium as one of the most connected football stadiums today in time to support the biggest data-usage event in sports, next week’s Super Bowl LI. 5 Bars deployed a secure, reliable high density Wi-Fi network to support the heavy demand required by the team, venue and fans.

5 Bars worked with the Harris County Sports & Convention Corporation to plan, design and build the high density Wi-Fi network to meet the needs of the biggest crowds at NRG Stadium and the upcoming Super Bowl LI. Wireless connectivity is 5 Bars’ top priority to ensure fan interaction for maximum simultaneous users at the 72,000+ seat facility.

NRG Stadium and 5 Bars embarked with great success to deliver a state-of-the-art network within a very tight time line as demanded by the NFL and ensure the performance required for the big day. The high density Wi-Fi network, which was nonexistent in the past, now covers 1.9 million square feet of the stadium through the deployment of 1,250 Extreme Networks access points and switches. This publicly-accessible, fan-enhancing network allows users to be fully connected inside the stadium.

“We are proud to be part of such a high profile venue. NRG Stadium is one of the largest and busiest stadiums in the country. To be able to deliver a world-class Wi-Fi system in such a short time frame, speaks volumes about the team we were working with and the importance of the Super Bowl,” said Monnie McGaffigan, President of 5 Bars. “We are excited to see the system in full action.”

About NRG Park:

NRG Park is the premier sports, convention, tradeshow and entertainment complex located in Harris County, the cultural center and urban hub of Houston. NRG Park hosts over 5.5 million guests annually and is comprised of four large facilities; NRG Stadium which is one of the busiest venues in the country and home to the NFL’s Houston Texans, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Super Bowl(R) LI, with hundreds of events and seating for 72,500 fans; NRG Center offering 1.4 million square feet of exhibition space, NRG Arena with 8,000 seats, 26,000 parking spaces and the Astrodome.

About 5 Bars:

5 Bars is an Irvine, California based, privately held premier provider of Wireless Master Plans for Counties, Cities and Large Scale Venues developing comprehensive wireless strategies through a unique holistic view of all assets, coverage and capacity. 5 Bars offers fully managed wireless solutions, network development, ownership and end-to-end management delivering commercial indoor and outdoor distributed antenna systems (DAS), carrier-grade Wi-Fi networks, and small cell systems on behalf of properties and service providers.

For more information, visit http://5bars.com/.

Media Contact:
5 Bars
949-514-4617
info@5bars.com

5 BARS(R), a premier provider of wireless solutions, has positioned NRG Stadium as one of the most connected football stadiums today in time to support the biggest data-usage event in sports, next week’s Super Bowl LI. 5 Bars deployed a secure, reliable high density Wi-Fi network to support the heavy demand required by the team, venue and fans.

5 BARS names Monnie McGaffigan President

IRVINE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- 5 BARS(R) announced today the appointment of Monnie McGaffigan as president of the wireless solutions firm. 5 Bars is a premier provider of master wireless plans and marketing agreements for cities and municipalities across the United States.

"We are fortunate to have such great breadth and talent within the 5 Bars team. As we begin 2017, I would like to recognize the contributions made in our organization," said John Clarey, CEO of 5 Bars. "Monnie is a talented leader who has developed our organization into a first-class service provider, advocating for our clients to create the best wireless experience for their citizens, residents, businesses, fans and visitors."

Monnie joined 5 Bars in 2015 as Senior Vice President, leading business development, carrier relations and program management in our Sports and Large Public Venues group. During her time at 5 Bars, she gained additional responsibilities leading the 5 Bars Communities division.

Monnie is an experienced customer champion, and leading the advocacy for cities in their advancement of wireless technologies was a natural fit. As a 25-year technology veteran, McGaffigan has an extensive wireless background that includes experience with carriers, cable operators, service and infrastructure providers alongside emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things. Her extensive background will accelerate the 5 Bars Communities vision.

About 5 Bars:

5 Bars is a privately held company in Irvine, Calif. that provides wireless master planning for communities, stadiums and large-scale venues through master planning network development, ownership and management. 5 Bars works with venue owners to design, build, operate, monetize and maintain state-of-the-art seamless wireless networks with world-class infrastructure while enhancing wireless connectivity. 5 Bars is a leading provider of commercial indoor and outdoor neutral host DAS, small cells and high density carrier-grade Wi-Fi networks. For more information, visit http://5Bars.com/.

About 5 Bars Communities:

5 Bars Communities(TM) provides wireless master planning, marketing and management of network infrastructure including cell tower, outdoor small cells and distributed antenna systems. 5 Bars provides cities and communities new capabilities, additional revenue streams, operational efficiencies and strong benefits to the economy to create a modern framework for livable sustainable smart cities.

For more information, visit http://5bars.com/communities/.

5 BARS(R) announced today the appointment of Monnie McGaffigan as president of the wireless solutions firm. 5 Bars is a premier provider of master wireless plans and marketing agreements for cities and municipalities across the United States.

5 Bars welcomes Greg Steininger as National Vice President of Communities

IRVINE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- 5 Bars(TM) a leader in wireless technology solutions, announced the appointment of Greg Steininger as National Vice President, Communities. 5 Bars is a premier provider of wireless master plans and asset marketing for cities, counties and large-scale venues.

As a 20 year leader in technology and telecommunications, Steininger brings extensive background building highly successful sales organizations and State & Local programs. Steininger will lead the 5 Bars Communities team focusing on the acceleration of small cell and 5G deployments for cities and municipalities throughout the country.

"I could not be more excited to be part of a team that is dedicated to partnering with and advocating for Communities as they proactively develop a Wireless Master Plan that enhances communication capabilities for its businesses and residents, while protecting the city's assets and aesthetics," said Steininger.

Steininger spent his formative years with IBM, GE, and Nextel, where he was part of the team that built Nextel's national public sector program. He led the West Region Public Sector sales organization up until and beyond the merger with Sprint.

"Steininger's background extends beyond providing technology solutions. His diverse experience in both business and the military provides us with a unique perspective in continuing to build a culture of results, discipline and excellence," said 5 Bars CEO, John Clarey.

Greg is a graduate of the University of Southern California and a veteran of the United States Army.

About 5 Bars:

5 Bars is a privately held company in Irvine Calif. that provides wireless master planning for communities, stadiums and large-scale venues through master planning network development, ownership and management. 5 Bars works with venue owners to design, build, operate, monetize and maintain state-of-the-art seamless wireless networks with world-class infrastructure while enhancing wireless connectivity. 5 Bars is a leading provider of commercial indoor and outdoor neutral host DAS, small cells and high density carrier-grade Wi-Fi networks. For more information, visit http://5Bars.com/.

About 5 Bars Communities:

5 Bars Communities(TM) provides Wireless Master Planning, Marketing and Management of network infrastructure including cell tower, outdoor small cells and distributed antenna systems. 5 Bars provides cities and communities new capabilities, additional revenue streams, operational efficiencies and strong benefits to the economy to create a modern framework for livable sustainable smart cities.

For more information, visit http://5bars.com/communities.

Media Contact:
5 Bars
(949) 933-8137
info@5bars.com

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5 Bars(TM) a leader in wireless technology solutions, announced the appointment of Greg Steininger as National Vice President, Communities. 5 Bars is a premier provider of wireless master plans and asset marketing for cities, counties and large-scale venues.

LIBERTY Dental Plan Selected to Participate in Covered California for Individual/Family Plans and for Small Businesses

IRVINE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- LIBERTY Dental Plan (LIBERTY) is proud to announce its selection as a participating dental plan for the 2017 benefit year. LIBERTY will offer individual or family dental plans through Covered California this open enrollment period as well as coverage options for small businesses.

Covered California's open enrollment period for 2017 coverage begins Nov. 1, 2016 and ends Jan. 31, 2017.

"LIBERTY Dental Plan is proud to bring affordable dental plan options to individuals, families and small groups through Covered California," said Dr. Amir Neshat, President and CEO of LIBERTY Dental Plan.

"LIBERTY recognizes and shares in Covered California's commitment to quality, affordability, preventive care, access and service."

LIBERTY Dental Plan has built a reputation of quality in commercial and government-sponsored dental programs, providing services to managed care organizations, state governments, labor unions, large group employers, municipalities, and individuals. LIBERTY has a proven record of successfully increasing the utilization of quality dental care for multiple programs, ensuring that a larger portion of premiums are appropriated directly to care.

Both adults and children can enroll in Covered California's family dental plans as an optional benefit. There is no tax penalty for consumers who elect not to enroll in the family dental plan (and no tax credit for purchasers of the family dental plan).

For information on LIBERTY Dental Plan of California, visit: https://www.libertydentalplan.com/LIBERTY-Dental-Plan-of-California/LIBERTY-Dental-Plan-of-California.aspx.

For more information about LIBERTY, visit: https://www.libertydentalplan.com/.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Ara Najarian
800-356-6406 x87
ara@i-mmarketing.com

LIBERTY Dental Plan is proud to announce its selection as a participating dental plan for the 2017 benefit year. LIBERTY will offer individual or family dental plans through Covered California this open enrollment period as well as coverage options for small businesses.