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Netevias New Strategic Division Netevia Platinum Set To Hire 1,000 W2 Sales Professionals
Netevias latest strategic division, Netevia Platinum and Netevia Platinum Direct has announced that it seeks to hire 1,000 additional W2 direct sales agents under Netevia Platinum and Netevia Platinum Direct. This new entity will specialize in a wide range of financial services as part of the expansion of Netevia Banking Services that will include digital business and personal bank accounts, credit card payment processing as well as groundbreaking financial services aiming to help local SMB manage their cash flow.
Vlad Sadovskiy, Netevias CEO, expressed enthusiasm about this ambitious project. "Our vision at Netevia has always been to redefine how businesses manage their financial needs. With this partnership, we're not just expanding our team; we are putting business bankers on the street at every corner of America, helping to bridge the gap of new financial technology solutions and merchants that are concerned about dealing with digital-only solutions such as Square, where a customer has no other way of communicating their needs or asking for advice," said Sadovskiy.
Gus Torres, Netevia Platinum's managing partner, emphasized the strategic importance of this initiative. "By bringing together a thousand new sales agents under the Netevia family umbrella, we're creating a powerful network. This isn't just about numbers; it's about cultivating a team that can deliver unparalleled expertise and personalized service previously not created by any other company in the digital banking or payment space to every merchant in need," Gus notes.
In the last five months, Netevia Platinum has hired 10 regional managers and 30 sales agents. This experience convinced Netevia's executive team to move this bold expansion step forward.
This groundbreaking move by Netevia, Netevia Platinum, and its Direct unit is more than just a business expansion; it's a commitment to making traditional payment services as well as digital banking services and its relative products accessible and convenient. By positioning sales agents across the country, Netevia is ensuring that every merchant, regardless of their location, has access to a local expert who understands their specific needs and can provide tailored solutions.
To join the local sales revolution, email recruiter@neteviaplatdirect.com or w2@neteviaplat.com.
For press inquiry, email press@netevia.com.
About Netevia
Netevia is the pioneering financial technology company reshaping how businesses transact, conduct business, and grow globally. Founded to democratize opportunities, Netevia empowers businesses of all sizes, anywhere, to thrive in the global digital economy. Since its inception, Netevia has established a global financial platform that has revolutionized transactions for millions of businesses worldwide, especially in emerging markets.
Media Contact
Eduardo Mora
Media Contact
Eduardo Mora
press@netevia.com

Hearst Acquires 20,000 Acres of Sustainably Managed Timberlands in Siskiyou and Shasta Counties, California, From Manulife Investment Management
The forests, which are centered around McCloud, California, have a rich history of industrial forest management dating back to the initial settlement of the town of McCloud in 1897. These mixed species forests have long since been a source of raw material for many of the region’s forest products facilities, and in doing so contribute positively to the economy of the area. Manulife Investment Management had been managing these forests on behalf of their investors since 1991.
The forests will be added to Hearst’s current timberland ownership of 62,000 acres in the same area operated by Hearst Forests LLC, a subsidiary of Hearst. Hearst owns and sustainably manages a total of 238,000 acres of timber and ranch land in California, including the Hearst Ranch at San Simeon, the Jack Ranch and Hearst Forests in McCloud.
As of Q3 2023, Manulife Investment Management’s $11.3 billion timberland investment portfolio spans 5.4 million acres in the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Chile and Brazil. One hundred percent of its portfolio is certified as sustainable by independent third-party forest certification standards. Manulife IM provides an extensive range of on-the-ground forest management services through its forestry personnel, who have expertise in sustainable forest management and are skilled in customizing management activities to reflect the investment objectives of each client and the unique characteristics of each property.
"We are pleased to announce this transaction as Manulife Investment Management and Hearst have a long history of forest management in Northern California,” said Tom Sarno, global head of timberland investments for Manulife Investment Management. “Both groups share similar views on sustainability, stewardship and the environment while continuing to support local jobs in the region."
"This strategic acquisition increases Hearst’s timberland ownership to 82,000 acres in the productive McCloud, California wood basket," said Steve Hearst, vice president and general manager of Hearst Western Properties. "Hearst began acquiring land in this area in 1921, and we look forward to stewarding this remarkable property through our sustainable timber management regime."
Manulife Investment Management is the brand for the global wealth and asset management segment of Manulife Financial Corporation. Our mission is to make decisions easier and lives better by empowering investors for a better tomorrow. Serving more than 17 million individuals, institutions and retirement plan members, we believe our global reach, complementary businesses and the strength of our parent company position us to help investors capitalize on today’s emerging global trends. We provide our clients access to public and private investment solutions across equities, fixed income, multi-asset, alternative and sustainability-linked strategies, such as natural capital, to help them make more informed financial decisions and achieve their investment objectives. Not all offerings are available in all jurisdictions. For additional information, please visit manulifeim.com.
Hearst is one of the nation’s largest global, diversified information, services and media companies. Hearst has been innovating for more than a century, leading with purpose, integrity and a culture of care, with a mission to inform audiences and improve lives. The company’s diverse portfolio includes global financial services leader Fitch Group; Hearst Health, a group of medical information and services businesses; Hearst Transportation, which includes CAMP Systems International, a major provider of software-as-a-service solutions for managing maintenance of jets and helicopters; ownership in cable television networks such as A&E, HISTORY, Lifetime and ESPN; 35 television stations; 24 daily and 52 weekly newspapers; digital services businesses; and more than 200 magazines around the world.
Founded in 1993, the Pacific Forest Trust (PFT) is dedicated to conserving and sustaining America’s vital, productive forest landscapes. Working with forest harvested wood, green jobs, renewable and sustainable energy, fish and wildlife habitat and a livable climate. With an array of stakeholder partners, we advance innovative, incentive-based strategies to safeguard our nation’s diverse forest landscapes and the communities they support. Learn more at www.pacificforest.org.
Media Contact for Hearst
Paul Luthringer
paul@hearst.com
212-649-2540
Media Contact for Manulife Investment Management
Media Contact
Paul Luthringer
pluthringer@hearst.com



Innersense Launches I Create Curl Memory Styling Gelee
Award-winning clean beauty brand Innersense has added I Create Curl Memory to their product portfolio. This flexible single step styling gelee smooths, hydrates and provides flexible hold for elongated and long-lasting curls. I Create Curl Memory can be used for all curl types and textures.
This styling gelee utilizes a nourishing and nutrient rich formula that helps prevent breakage and creates healthy, hydrated curls. The brand swapped out conventional ingredients typically used in styling gels for natural alternatives that are good for overall hair health. It also has a sweet chamomile scent to promote overall serenity and relaxation.
Key ingredients include:
- Sugar complex (honey and sucrose): provides light hold, amplifies thickness and improves manageability
- Bamboo extract: promotes style retention and nourishes hair with strengthening minerals that keep strands resilient and can help prevent breakage
- Aloe vera (certified organic): a versatile and lightweight moisturizer and hair strengthener
I Create Curl Memory is gluten free, cruelty free and made with organic ingredients. Innersense is both plastic and carbon neutral.
"We're always looking for cleaner, healthier alternatives to styling products that are efficacious and easy to use," says Greg Starkman, founder of Innersense. "I Create Curl Memory is an amazing product for all curl textures, formulated with nourishing ingredients packed with benefits for defined, long lasting curls."
I Create Curl Memory (10 oz) retails for $28 and will be available online at innersebeauty.com, in select salons and in-store at specialty retailers such as Credo Beauty and The Detox Market.
About Innersense
Beauty professionals Greg and Joanne Starkman founded Innersense to bring clean, pure and toxin-free hair care to salons, stylists and consumers. The clean hair care brands products include shampoos, conditioners, scalp scrub, styling and treatment products for all hair types. For more information, visit innersensebeauty.com.
Media Contact
Archita Patel
BPCM
281-725-2121
Media Contact
Archita Patel
archita@bpcm.com

AGC Biologics Announces Plans for New Manufacturing Site in Yokohama, Japan
AGC Biologics, a leading global biopharmaceutical Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO), today announced plans to construct a new manufacturing facility at AGC Inc.s Yokohama Technical Center in Japan. The new site is a part of the CDMOs strategic growth strategy to create more high-quality pharmaceutical development and manufacturing services in the Asia region that can help meet the global demand for biologics and advanced therapy medicinal products (ATMPs). The facility is expected to be operational in 2026.
The new AGC Biologics Yokohama facility will offer pre-clinical through commercial services for mammalian-based protein biologics, cell therapies and messenger RNA (mRNA). The site will house multiple 2,000L single-use bioreactors and several 4,000L or larger reactors for mammalian cell culture services, making it one of Japan's largest* sites for mammalian-based manufacturing capacity once complete. (* AGC estimates)
AGC Biologics is building this facility thanks to a grant from the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) as part of the ministry's initiative to develop biopharmaceutical manufacturing sites to strengthen vaccine production in the region (announced in October 2022). The total investment for the AGC Biologics Yokohama site is expected to be approximately 50 billion Japanese yen ($350,500,000 USD) and once fully operational it will employ 400 people.
"With an increased demand in this region for high-quality partners that have a history of clinical and commercial biopharmaceutical manufacturing, we are making this investment to offer developers the services they need, and strengthen our global CDMO network," said Patricio Massera, Chief Executive Officer, AGC Biologics. "The new Yokohama facility will be a central location for innovators in Japan and across the Asia Pacific, offering scientific expertise, technical flexibility and needed services to support development and manufacturing at every critical stage."
The Yokohama facility is expected to significantly contribute to the needs of regional and global developers seeking biopharmaceutical development and manufacturing capabilities, in addition to further maximizing operational and supply chain efficiencies across AGC Biologics' global network. The company currently operates one site in the region, its Chiba facility, offering mammalian expression and microbial fermentation services.
AGC Biologics is a part of AGC Inc.'s Life Science Company. The Life Science Company runs ten different facilities focused on biopharmaceuticals, advanced therapies, small molecule active pharmaceutical ingredients and agrochemicals.
To learn more about AGC Biologics global network of services for protein biologics and cell and gene therapies, please visit www.agcbio.com.
About AGC Biologics
AGC Biologics is a leading global biopharmaceutical Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) with a strong commitment to delivering the highest standard of service as we work side-by-side with our clients and partners, every step of the way. We provide world-class development and manufacture of mammalian and microbial-based therapeutic proteins, plasmid DNA (pDNA), messenger RNA (mRNA), viral vectors, and genetically engineered cells. Our global network spans the U.S., Europe, and Asia, with cGMP-compliant facilities in Seattle, Washington; Boulder and Longmont, Colorado; Copenhagen, Denmark; Heidelberg, Germany; Milan, Italy; and Chiba, Japan and we currently employ more than 2,500 employees worldwide. Our commitment to continuous innovation fosters the technical creativity to solve our clients most complex challenges, including specialization in fast-track projects and rare diseases. AGC Biologics is the partner of choice. To learn more, visit www.agcbio.com.
Media Contact
Nick McDonald
425-419-3555
Media Contact
Nick McDonald
nmcdonald@agcbio.com

Yntegra Group Signs Agreement To Develop Northern Tract of Big Sampson and East Sampson
Yntegra Group today signed a Heads of Agreement with the government of The Bahamas to develop the northern tract of Big Sampson and East Sampson Cays in the Exumas. It is the second, ultra-luxury project that the Miami-based company has in the area.
According to Felipe MacLean, CEO of Yntegra Group, the project will have a residential community, boutique resort, and marina component, and the proposed designs show a deep commitment to the environment.
"We are committed to building on the current success of the area as a world-class destination," said MacLean. "Our ultra-luxury resorts, marinas, and residences will be showpieces for the area while preserving the natural environment and caring for the long-term sustainability of the Exumas."
MacLean thanked the government of The Bahamas for its support and noted that current plans to improve infrastructure, such as the expansion of the Blackpoint Airport to add more international flights, and the increase in airlift to the Exumas, show that the nations elected officials are deeply devoted to the long-term economic development of the area.
The Sampson project will have a capital expenditure of more than $100 million over the life of the project and will create more than 250 jobs during construction. MacLean noted that Yntegra Group has already signed an agreement with one of the top ultra-luxury hotel operators in the world, which will be formally announced in early 2024.
"We will continue to work with the local community in Exuma to create quality jobs and identify entrepreneurial opportunities while promoting the area as a global destination and supporting the development of the tourism industry," said MacLean. "We have long-term plans for investment in the Exumas and are excited about the prospects that lay ahead."
Currently developing two major luxury resort and residential developments in the Exumas, Yntegra Group focuses primarily on real estate development, asset management, and specialty finance. More information is available at yntegragroup.com.
Media Contact
John P. David
David PR Group
305-724-3903
Royann Dean
ONWRD Advisors Ltd.
242-422-0697
Media Contact
John P. David
john@davidpr.com

Sinecure.ai Acquires the Grace Blue Partnership to Grow Talent Discovery and Recruitment Solutions
Sinecure.ai is a leading SaaS software technology company focused on redefining talent discovery through AI and LLM innovation. With a commitment to precision, speed, and predictability, Sinecure.ai empowers organizations to find and hire ideal candidates for their unique needs. To learn more about how Sinecure.ai delivers candidates you actually want to hire, visit Sinecure.ai.
Grace Blue is a global executive search firm specializing in transformational leadership talent for brands, agencies, media, sports, entertainment and technology organizations to future-proof their businesses. We combine the knowledge, reach and rigor of a global business with the empathy, integrity and values of a local boutique specialist. Our expertise spans the disciplines of media, marketing and communications, strategy, data and insight, creative, production, technology and automation and beyond. You can learn more at Grace Blue.
Media Contact
John Zeman
john@sinecure.ai
Media Contact
John Zeman
john@sinecure.ai

Bound4 Expands AI Data Design IP Business, Forges Strategic Alliance with Orbitvu Korea for Market Edge
NVIDIA Inception Program: A Gateway to Bound4’s Global Market Impact
Bound4’s inclusion in the NVIDIA Inception program marks a significant stride towards its global market expansion. CEO Hwang In-ho remarked, “Our participation in the NVIDIA Inception program is a pivotal step in our journey, setting the stage for Bound4's growth in the global AI data design market. This aligns with our strategic vision.”
Innovating in AI Raw Data Processing
At the forefront of AI training data design innovation, Bound4 is redefining industry norms. CEO Hwang In-ho stated, “The role of raw data in Machine Learning Operations (MLOps) has been traditionally underappreciated. We’re changing that by setting new standards in AI training data design, from data collection to model selection, with the aim of vastly improving user experience.”
Focused Development in Computer Vision AI Data
CEO Hwang In-ho emphasized Bound4’s strategic focus on computer vision AI data production. “Our targeted approach in computer vision AI data is designed to elevate our manufacturing efficiency and reduce Turn-Around Time (TAT), key for asserting our emerging presence in the competitive AI data sector,” he highlighted.
About Bound4
Founded in 2019, Bound4 is quickly establishing itself as an emerging player in AI data design and production. Through its proprietary technology and strategic partnerships, Bound4 is actively shaping the landscape of AI data utilization in various industries, marking its impact as a notable innovator.
Media Contact
Coliko Official
coliko.official@gmail.com



Revolutionizing eCommerce: SyncSpider and Shopware Unite to Propel Online Sales
Looking to the future, SyncSpider GmbH vows to innovate and forge new partnerships continually, reinforcing its commitment to the eCommerce community. As the digital landscape evolves, we remain steadfast in our mission to help businesses flourish. Discover more about our transformative solutions at SyncSpider.
Media Contact
Aleks Stanisic
hello@syncspider.com

Give the Gift of Plow, Not Hearth
For many, their gift focus is "hearth and home" not "plow," but from an eco-sustainable and environmental stewardship perspective, a focus of plow is more appropriate. Why? From the rainforests of southeast Alaska to the deciduous forests of the Mid-Atlantic region, climate shifts continue to wreak havoc on America's landscape.
To aide acquiring eco-sustainable gifts, The Wright Scoop – Sylvia Hoehns Wright has posted a series of blogs which suggest gifts of plow, not hearth. To follow, visit her blog at https://wrightscoop.blogspot.com or acquire copies of Wright’s newly released tips and strategies books available at https://www.lulu.com/spotlight/syhwright.
In the spirit of the holiday season, won't you join Wright in her quest to green lifestyles one scoop at a time, give gifts that reflect eco-sustainability, and choose to plow, not hearth.
As recipient of the "Turning America from Eco-Weak to Eco-Chic" award sponsored by Project EverGreen, Garden Center magazine, and Hines Horticulture, Wright is recognized as a person who encourages all to create landscapes from an eco-sustainable point of view, seek to reduce their carbon footprint as well as feed their families pesticide-free produce.
"The challenge," says Wright, "for present-day communities is to create landscapes from eco-sustainable points of view, a 'waste not and want not' ecological commitment: become caretakers for their environmental communities."
About The Wright Scoop
Featured by "Virginia Home Grown" on WCVE-TV (a PBS member television station in Richmond), State-by-State Gardening magazines, and Birds & Blooms magazine for her hands-on eco-activities, The Wright Scoop – Sylvia Hoehns Wrightcontributes to industry magazines and newspapers and blogs for Build Green TV. For details of her books and activities, visit web site www.thewrightscoop.com.
Media Contact
Sylvia Wright
syhwright@gmail.com



Narratize Closes $2M Seed Round to Accelerate Innovation Through the Power of Story
The funding will be used to accelerate the development of Narratize's AI platform, which helps enterprises in scientific, techical, and medical industries generate accurate, compelling content and communications to speed time to market for innovative products and initiatives. Narratize was founded in 2022 by Katie Trauth Taylor, Catherine O'Shea, and Kara Uchtman, who share expertise crossing data science, narrative science, and computer science and a decade of experience identifying narrative algorithms proven to be convincing and converting within innovative industries.
Narratize launched publicly in early 2023 after successful pilots with NASA and Boeing. Today, the platform has attracted Fortune 500 and global enterprise customers seeking productivity and revenue gains through trustworthy GenAI solutions designed to support effective ideation, research, and communication among teams in R&D, product, innovation, operations, and marketing. Custom content templates enable enterprise teams to embed Narratize’s coauthoring capabilities into their existing writing and documentation workflows—tackling unique and nuanced content types from pitches to white papers, problem statements to case studies. 73% percent of surveyed global innovation teams from the United Nations World Food Forum recently rated Narratize’s coauthored content more accurate than any existing generative AI solution. Teams using the platform to create pitches were more likely to receive funding for their discoveries and products.
"Our customers are proving that generative AI, when it's built in an evidence-based way, can help teams innovate faster through more effective storytelling—from communicating the seed of an idea through achieving message-market fit," says CEO Katie Trauth Taylor.
Narratize is built on a decade of peer-reviewed research on innovation storytelling, including studies conducted alongside 100 Fortune 500 chief innovation officers and chief technology officers, R&D, product, innovation, marketing and communications professionals across the most innovative industries in the U.S.
"Organizations innovate more, faster, and better when everyone at the enterprise is equipped with the right tools to communicate effectively," says Narratize customer, Tim Shinbara, CTO of the Association of Manufacturing Technology. "It's how we get buy-in and alignment for our best ideas."
Laurie Jennings, GM at Good Housekeeping Institute, shares her vision for Narratize’s potential to enhance productivity and grow revenue: "Generative artificial intelligence has sparked unprecedented opportunities to transform how we collect and synthesize data. With Narratize, our goal is to bring more commercial value to our product-testing business. We’re most excited about Narratize’s ability to extract insights from our diverse research streams and produce high-value reports at scale."
"We are excited to partner with Narratize as they continue to develop their AI platform," says Kubera Venture Capital Partner, Balaji Gopinath. "We believe that Narratize has the potential to revolutionize the way that enterprises communicate and innovate."
Narratize is headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio with offices in New York City. The company plans to use the funding to expand its data science, engineering, and customer success teams and bring new use cases in the platform to serve the most innovative Fortune 1000 enterprises.
About Narratize
Narratize combines the power of narrative science with cutting-edge generative AI technology to ensure that no great idea is left untold. From optimizing research & development processes to scaling product launch, Narratize empowers brands with transformative ideas to unleash their full potential.
Media Contact
Kate Greulich
kate@narratize.com



Never Married Dating Launches World's First Ever Dating App for Never Married People
"Never Married Dating understands the inundation of options in the dating app market can make it challenging for users to choose the right applications for their needs. We've designed Never Married Dating to be the go-to resource for single, never-married people to find love and happiness," said the company.
According to analysis by Pew Research Center, 25% of 40-year-olds in the United States have never been married, marking a significant increase from 20% in 2010 and 6% in 1980.
About Never Married Dating
Never Married Dating is the exclusive dating website for single, never-married people, helping them find love and happiness. For more information, visit https://www.nevermarrieddating.com.
Media Contact
John Smith
sendreceive2024@earthlink.net



Veteran Reporter Claire Atkinson’s The Media Mix Signs Exclusive Deal with EZ Newswire
EZ Newswire is an AI-powered platform and integrated publisher network that enables businesses to seamlessly create and publish their news to exclusive media outlets. Since its launch in May, the company’s offering has attracted a wide range of customers, including Priceline, College of Charleston, and hundreds of businesses in over 800 cities and towns across the country. EZ Newswire added The Post and Courier, a Pulitzer Prize winner and South Carolina’s paper of record, to its exclusive publisher network in August and Alex Kantrowitz’s Big Technology in October. Also in October, EZ Newswire was selected out of 400 startups as the winner of HearstLab’s pitch competition.
EZ Newswire is a platform that makes it easy and affordable for businesses of all sizes to create and publish their news. Our technology produces professional announcements in minutes with no writing or public relations experience required, while our exclusive publisher network guarantees placement to ensure the news reaches the right audience. From Main Street to Wall Street, find out why thousands of organizations trust us to power their headlines at www.eznewswire.com.
Media Contact
Claire Atkinson
claireatki@gmail.com

Lura's Kitchen Introduces Madear's Purple Teacake To Support OASC Scholarship Fundraising Event
Lura's Kitchen recognizes the importance of supporting educational opportunities through initiatives like the OASC scholarship fundraising event. By introducing Madear's Purple Teacake, Lura's Kitchen aims to provide a delightful treat that not only satisfies taste buds but also contributes to a worthy cause. The introduction of this unique teacake flavor adds an extra layer of excitement and indulgence to the event, making it a truly memorable experience for attendees.
Our Authors Study Club, Inc. has been promoting the study and preservation of Black history continuously since 1945 and remains the hosts of the annual citywide Black History Month Celebration—a partnership they have shared with every mayor since 1950. On December 18, OASC will celebrate the founder of Black history, Dr. Carter G. Woodson, with a birthday party that includes a "Best Dressed Purple" contest, prize drawings, a holiday popup shop of Black history memorabilia for purchase, and the feature presentation of "The Color Purple." As a special treat, all ticketholders will receive the Madear's Purple Teacake as they exit the theater.
Lura's Kitchen has always been committed to the values of family, tradition, and celebration. For over forty years, Lura's Kitchen has honored these values through their baking ministry, creating specialty-named cookie flavors for various milestones and events. In response to numerous requests, Lura's Kitchen expanded its offerings in 2021 by translating its signature original and traditional recipes into premium gourmet dry cookie mixes. These mixes are designed to cater to both novice and experienced bakers, allowing them to create decadent desserts in thirty minutes or less, with minimal mess. The three available varieties include Madear's Old Fashion Teacake (the only teacake mix on the market), Langston's No-Nonsense Chocolate Chip, and Tura Lura's Chocolate Chip with Pecan.
Looking ahead, Lura's Kitchen aims to continue expanding its range of delicious and convenient baking mixes, providing individuals with the means to create delectable desserts in their own homes. By staying true to their mission of "doing business while doing good," Lura's Kitchen will continue to support charitable causes and bring people together through the universal language of food.
For tickets to the event, log on to https://oascla.org/shop. Hurry, space is limited! For more information about Lura's Kitchen and its products, please visit https://www.luraskitchen.com.
Media Contact
Lura Daniels-Ball
lura@luraskitchen.com
Media Contact
Lura Daniels-Ball
lura@luraskitchen.com



Gales® Becomes the First HSA/FSA Eligible Footwear
To lighten the cost burden of uniform requirements for frontline workers, Gales®, a trailblazer in innovative footwear, proudly announces coverage and reimbursement eligibility through Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA). This landmark initiative positions Gales® as the first-ever footwear brand recognized in HSA and FSA coverage, offering a crucial solution to those looking for protective work shoes.
Over the past two years, Gales® has worked hard to finally make footwear a health benefit, as proper footwear has a significant physical impact on individuals working long shifts on their feet. After extensive lab testing, human trials, and ongoing studies with accredited healthcare institutions and health specialists, qualified individuals can purchase shoes directly through weargales.com by selecting HSA/FSA at checkout. For more information, click here.
Why you should take advantage of this benefit:
- Use it or lose it: FSA funds must be spent by the end of the year. With three weeks left until the new year, now is a good time to utilize funds before they expire!
- Save money: When choosing to purchase Gales® with an eligible HSA or FSA account, you are purchasing with pre-tax dollars. Reimbursements from these funds are also tax-free.
- Invest in your health: Gales® are the first footwear designed to do the opposite of athletic shoes––disperse energy and diffuse impact to decrease pressure on knees, backs, and joints. For the 1.8 billion working professionals on their feet for long shifts (healthcare, hospitality, education) Gales® are high-quality, protective footwear designed to meet their needs with comfort and safety. Additional advantages of Gales® include waterproof design, stain-resistance, lightweight feel, slip-resistance, arch supportive insoles, antimicrobial materials, fully bleachable + machine washable function, and made with partially recycled/eco-friendly materials.
About Gales®
When Founder and CEO, Rob Gregg, discovered in 2020 that footwear was the #1 unaddressed infection control and safety issue for healthcare workers, he set out to create a solution. Gales® not only protects against deadly bacteria and diseases that 80% of healthcare workers’ shoes absorb but also protects against knee, back, and joint pain as the first shoe built for standing. Learn more here.
Media Contact
Raquel Perez
raquel.perez@weargales.com
Media Contact
Raquel Perez
raquel.perez@weargales.com



Ibu Movement Celebrates Successful "Colombiana!" Fundraising Event Showcasing Colombian Culture and First Nations' Heritage Craft
- Juan Sebastian Rivera, El Dorado Edit: Founder and Art Collector and Ibu Global Ambassador
- Juan Pablo Gomez, El Dorado Edit: Operational Director and Collector and Ibu Global Ambassador
- Mercedes Salazar, Mercedes Salazar Designs: Jeweler
- Mariana Velasquez, Colombiana! Cookbook: Chef & Food Stylist
- Magno Caterino, Finatur Design: Craftsman & Jeweler
- Sandra Henao Caterino, Finatur Design: Artist & Jeweler
- Juliana Ramirez, Bosque: Architect
- Josefa Antonio Barliza Ipuana, Wayuu Cooperative: Leader
- Amelicia Santacruz Alvarez, Gunadule Community: Representative and Politician
- Catalina Camilo, Alma Joyeria: Craftsman & Jeweler
- Yasmin Sabet, Mola Sasa: Founder and Designer
Although Colombiana! may be over, the celebration lives on. For a limited time, Ibu Movement is featuring an exclusive holiday drop of artisanal Colombian products, never before seen in Ibu's repertoire, curated by their partners at El Dorado Edit. From leather apparel to hand-crafted luxury jewelry, mola bags and ornaments, and serving pieces carved from native Amazonian woods, there is a wide array of styles and price points for everyone on your list. The sale ends December 31, 2023; shop now online or in store at the Ibu Showroom in downtown Charleston.
For more information about Ibu Movement and their initiatives, please visit their website at www.ibumovement.org.
About Ibu Movement
The word Ibu means “a woman of respect” in the Malay language of Indonesia. Ibu is a global movement of women rising into self-sufficiency through the art of their hands and hearts. A 501(c)(3), offering a marketplace for the made goods of our global artisan partners in over 50 countries, and grants for operational growth. Ibu organizes events and global travel to connect allies with artisans around the world. For more information, visit ibumovement.org.
Media Contact
Eve Boggs
eve@wawnerstrategies.com
Colombiana! image captions (photo credit: MCG Photography):
- Colombian luminaries were the guest of honor at Ibu's celebrations. From left to right: Mariana Velásquez, Magno Caterino, Sandra Henao Caterino, Mercedes Salazar, Juan Sebastián Rivera, Yasmin Sabet, Juan Pablo Gomez, Josefa Barliza Ipuana, Juliana Ramirez, Amelicia Santacruz Alvarez, Catalina Camilo.
- Colombian luminary Catalina Camilo of Alma Joyeria, with dinner guests Jill Esterman, Alessandra Zamora, Capucine Gooding, Ibu Founder and CEO Susan Hull Walker, and Wenda Millard.
- Designer Mercedes Salazar in conversation over a Colombian meal with Ibu allies, benefitting the Ibu Foundation.
- Chef and stylist Mariana Velásquez with the dessert tablescape she designed for the Colombiana dinner parties. Colombian delicacies prepared by FIG and floral decor donated by Geoflora.
- Guests enjoy a traditional Colombian meal, designed by chef, cookbook author, and stylist Mariana Velásquez.
Media Contact
Lasley Steever
lasley@ibumovement.org



Emerge and Rise Welcomes Sunflower Bank as a Seedling Partner with a Generous Donation of $2,500
Emerge and Rise, Inc. is a San Antonio-based non-profit business incubator focused on assisting underserved communities in establishing and growing their small businesses. Through a combination of expert consulting, strategic planning, and hands-on support, Emerge and Rise aims to foster innovation, creativity, and success for local entrepreneurs. To learn more visit EmergeAndRise.org.
Operating as Sunflower Bank, First National 1870 and Guardian Mortgage, Sunflower Bank, N.A. provides financial solutions to the individual communities it serves. With $7.7 billion in assets as of September 30, 2023, headquarters in Dallas, bank locations in five states, and mortgage capabilities in more than 40 states, Sunflower Bank, N.A. provides a full range of relationship-focused services to meet personal, business and wealth management financial objectives. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. First National 1870 and Guardian Mortgage are divisions of Sunflower Bank, N.A. To learn more visit SunflowerBank.com, FirstNational1870.com or GuardianMortgageOnline.com.
Media Contact
Lina Rugova
info@emergeandrise.org
Media Contact
Emerge Rise
info@emergeandrise.org



P.A.M. Masterclass: Your VIP Pass to the Spotlight, Authority, and Influence Your Hard Work Deserves
In today's crowded marketplace, it is crucial for visionaries to build a strong and recognizable brand. PamPerryPR understands the importance of securing speaking engagements and standing out from the competition. That is why they have developed this masterclass to provide individuals with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed.
Master Publicist, Dr. Pam Perry, is renowned for her expertise in helping established experts and entrepreneurs stand out with their buzz-worthy story.
With her guidance, participants of the masterclass will gain valuable insights and practical strategies to promote their message to the right audience, amplify their voice in a crowded marketplace, and master marketing techniques that ensure their brand stands out.
Looking ahead, PamPerryPR plans to expand its offerings and continue providing individuals with the tools and resources to succeed in their respective industries. With a focus on innovation and staying ahead of industry trends, they aim to remain a trusted partner for those seeking to stand out and make a difference.
For more information about the P.A.M. Masterclass and PamPerryPR, please visit https://www.pamperrypr.com.
Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZckc-ytrTMsHNTgKID5jWoX2JnXNmyaY9uv
Media Contact
Pam Perry
pam@pamperrypr.com



Former MasterClass Talent Executive and Emmy Award-Winning Producer Launch SonderCo To Reinvent Talent and Brand Partnerships
Building on his experience helping make MasterClass a global brand through talent partnerships, Sean Akaks, former Head of Business Affairs at MasterClass, is CEO, leading the vision, strategy and day-to-day operations of SonderCo. Akaks will run SonderCo with Partner and Chief Business Officer Jessie Mash, an Emmy Award-winning producer and former Head of Partnerships at clothing company Monica + Andy.
SonderCo aims to transform existing talent-partnership models from often transactional to a more long-term, holistic, 360-degree approach that reimagines how brands develop partnerships with celebrities, artists, athletes, actors, influencers, and creators. It will also manage brand-to-brand and licensing collaborations.
Understanding the diverse needs and economic climate for both emerging and established brands, SonderCo will offer bespoke deal structures, including equity stakes, revenue shares, leadership roles, and other forms of compensation tailored to each brand's unique situation and goals. SonderCo secures a range of partnership types for brands, spanning from Super Bowl ads and seasonal campaigns to spokesperson deals to brand ambassador relationships to co-founder roles, the latter of which is a growing trend as brands seek long-term solutions to maximize growth.
"It's getting harder for brands to reach customers and cut through the noise in a crowded market. We believe celebrity and influencer-affiliated companies will define the next decade of brand success," said Akaks. "SonderCo navigates this new world for brands by uniquely structuring partnerships, working hand in hand with talent, agents and managers to bring creative, long-term results and growth for everyone involved."
During his tenure at MasterClass, Akaks led the team that was instrumental in negotiating deals with talent—deals that ultimately made MasterClass a household name through its trove of online courses taught by sought-after celebrities and experts. He managed more than 100 talent deals, including ones for U.S. Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush; filmmakers Martin Scorsese, David Lynch, and Spike Lee; business leaders Anna Wintour, Bob Iger, and Sara Blakely; actors and producers Issa Rae and Shonda Rhimes; musicians Mariah Carey, John Legend, and Metallica; athletes Serena Williams and Tony Hawk; and artists Jeff Koons and Amanda Gorman.
Mash is longtime partnership and business-development executive. She saw the power of talent as a producer with ABC in Chicago, where she produced lifestyle segments with artists including Sarah Jessica Parker, Zendaya, Nate Berkus, Jason Wu and Martha Stewart, ultimately earning her three Emmy awards. She most recently served as Head of Partnerships at children’s apparel brand Monica + Andy, where she developed partnerships with brands and talent including Channing Tatum, Disney, Hello Bello and Lovevery to form unique product collaborations, events and content.
Investing in and backing SonderCo is Matthew Rutler, former colleague of Akaks and current EVP of Talent at MasterClass. Rutler, who has personally invested in more than 100 companies, including Lyft, DraftKings, Pinterest and Discord, was an early investor in MasterClass through MX Investments, the firm he owns with fiancee Christina Aguilera. Rutler then joined MasterClass in its infancy as its first executive, and recruited Akaks to help him build the talent-partnership team and lead deal-making efforts. Through these deals, the team grew the vast content offering into a global educational content platform.
"Sean is a builder with an incredible strategic mind," says Rutler. "He created tremendous value for MasterClass and understands how to create partnerships that lead to long-term growth for both talent and brands."
The leadership team will have a group of advisors, including award-winning entertainment marketing leader and former Showtime executive Dani Calogera, as well as experts from globally recognized companies such as Nike, Airbnb, Snapchat, Google, Everlane, and more.
Launch clients include Nasdaq-listed digital medicine leader Akili, Inc. As the company looked to launch EndeavorOTC, a first-of-its-kind digital product aimed at helping treat ADHD and attention issues in adults, it teamed up with SonderCo to identify influencer partnerships that excel at building awareness among the target audience.
"As we forged into a new target market and business model with EndeavorOTC, we enlisted SonderCo to help us raise awareness via product trials from influential personalities with ADHD symptoms," said Eddie Martucci, founder and chairman of Akili. "By year’s end, our work together will have resulted in multiple talent partnerships—an important component of our growth that helps to both generate awareness and gain user feedback to shape our roadmap."
Media Contact
Jessie Mash
jessie@sonderco.com
Media Contact
Jessie Mash
jessie@sonderco.com



Flume Health Announces SOC 2 Type II Certification, Demonstrating Commitment to Data Security
A SOC 2 report is designed to meet the needs of existing or potential customers who need assurance about the effectiveness of controls used by the service organization to process customers’ information.
The following principles and related criteria have been developed by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) for use by practitioners in the performance of trust services engagements:
- Security: The system is protected against unauthorized access (both physical and logical).
- Availability: The system is available for operation and use as committed or agreed.
- Processing Integrity: System processing is complete, valid, accurate, timely, and authorized to meet the entity’s objectives.
- Confidentiality: Information designated as confidential is protected as committed or agreed.
Current and prospective customers interested in a copy of our SOC 2 report may contact molly.gallagher@flumehealth.com.
About Flume Health
Flume Health is a software company that connects the fragmented healthcare data ecosystem for more efficient health plan administration. As a single, cloud-native integration platform, Flume’s Relay platform allows companies to easily connect various systems and vendors for efficient data exchange that’s increasingly demanded of the modern health plan. Payers, third-party administrators, prescription benefits managers, and health solutions are provided the simplicity, speed, and security they need to automate data integration and movement between relevant stakeholders. Relay supports multiple data transmission protocols, data types, and file types. By streamlining data flows between payers and solutions, a world of opportunity exists to improve access to healthcare.
About Barr Advisory
BARR Advisory is a cloud-based security and compliance solutions provider specializing in cybersecurity consulting and compliance for companies with high-value information in cloud environments like AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform. A trusted advisor to some of the fastest growing cloud-based organizations around the globe, BARR simplifies compliance across multiple regulatory and customer requirements in highly regulated industries including technology, financial services, healthcare, and government.
Media Contact
Molly Gallagher
molly.gallagher@flumehealth.com
Media Contact
Molly Gallagher
molly.gallagher@flumehealth.com

Brutus Bone Broth Expands Executive Team and Increases Growing Retail Footprint in 3,500 New Stores Across the U.S.
Brutus Bone Broth is now available across the U.S in approximately 958 Walmart stores, 2,000 CVS stores, over 500 PetSmart locations, over 600 Publix stores across the southeast, all 351 Menards locations, and at petsmart.com for nationwide shipping. Beyond these new retailers, Brutus Broth is also available at Target, Petco, Meijer, HEB, Wegmans, ShopRite, Jewel Osco, Fresh Thyme, Harris Teeter, Amazon, Chewy, and more.
"When my sister and I started Brutus Broth, we wanted to ensure that pet parents everywhere had access to bone broth and the multitude of benefits it provides for dogs," says Sue Delegan, co-founder and CEO of Brutus Bone Broth. "Each time we start a relationship with a new retailer, especially in a new part of the country, we know that we're reaching new pet parents and hopefully helping dogs to live happier and healthier lives."
Brutus Bone Broth is a masterfully crafted bone broth specifically designed for dogs and made with human grade ingredients. Many bone broths for humans contain ingredients that can be harmful for dogs, such as onions and garlic—a risk you won't find with Brutus Bone Broth. It’s fortified with chondroitin and glucosamine to support dogs' joint health, as well as turmeric to combat inflammation. Brutus Broth also undergoes two strict rounds of quality assurance that are governed by the USDA, so pet parents can trust in the product they’re feeding their pups.
Brutus Bone Broth can be enjoyed warm or cold, on its own as a nutritious drink or snack, or as a supplement to your dog's dry food. Serve approximately 1/4 cup of broth per 25 pounds of body weight per meal and adjust the amount per pet's individual needs. Each broth is non-GMO, dairy-free, gluten-free, and soy-free with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
As the company’s distribution has grown, it has added several new key hires to its team, including Barbara Pachavis (Chief Financial Officer), Julia Lauria (Chief Marketing Officer), Jaime Kaufman (VP, Brand & Strategic Initiatives), and Stephen Carey (Chief Operations Officer).
About Brutus Bone Broth
The story of Brutus Bone Broth began on Thanksgiving Day 2016, when co-founder and CEO Sue Delegan was asked what she attributed to Brutus' remarkable longevity—a 135-lb pup who lived 13.5 happy-and-healthy years. The answer: "Love and Grandma’s bone broth." Sue found that adding bone broth to Brutus' diet not only provided him with tastier and more nutritional meals, but also made his dry food easier to digest.
Kim and Sue Delegan, founders of Brutus Bone Broth, spent thousands of hours researching the pet market, speaking to experts in the industry, testing and tweaking recipes, designing packaging prototypes, and more in order to bring Brutus Bone Broth to the market. Today, they are proud that Brutus Bone Broth is now available to consumers and pets nationwide.
Media Contact
Media Contact
Michelle Songy
michelle@presshook.com




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