Newsroom

Introducing Jam, a new creator platform to share and listen to bite-sized audio. Jam provides creators with an opportunity to engage with a wider audience of listeners with quick, compelling short-form audio snippets that are "just a minute" (or so). Jam fills a gap in the audio space that other platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok have made popular for text, photos, and videos. This makes it easy for listeners to discover shorter content, as new creators as well as existing brands like Billboard, WSJ, 60-Second Science, and NBA Fast Break lean into the trend with "minute briefings" and other mini-podcasts. After a year in closed Beta, the company is headed to Comic-Con today to give attendees a first look at the platform, and start to grow its community of creators and listeners.

‍

Audio has long been a key medium for entertainment, but has been slower to adapt to the short-form style that's growing increasingly popular with users. Jam offers creators a way to keep their users more engaged by filling time in shorter bursts and accommodating busy schedules. It's a new way to listen, with unique content that often feels more like a one-on-one conversation. Once set up on Jam, creators can deliver content whenever they choose, including daily, weekly, or on-the-fly in response to current trends and news. The entire model is set up to provide listeners with a rotation of fresh and relevant content, delivered directly via text message.

‍

"Short audio connects creators and listeners in a genuinely new way… it's personal and authentic, like a voicemail left by a friend. Jam makes it easy for creators to record their insight, news, or message, and delivers it to listeners at a time that's right for them - whether they're walking the dog, running a quick errand, or making lunch," said Pete Davies, Co-Founder and CEO of Jam. "We're excited to bring Jam to the content-rich community at Comic-Con, an event famous for its ability to bring creators and their audience closer together. That's what Jam is all about."

‍

To get started with Jam, users simply sign up with their phone number or text LISTEN to 552266, then curate a list of Jams to receive each morning via text. The Jam library is constantly expanding to include a wide range of content from across categories and genres. This provides creators with fast and easy access to new audiences, while enabling users to easily find bite-sized audio content from top media brands and popular podcasters, as well as discover new and emerging creators.

‍

"In the age of short-form content, audio has largely been left out. It's puzzling because to us, audio is the best way to convey emotion and create a genuine connection between creative shorts and their listeners," said Chris Pruett, Co-Founder and CTO of Jam. "With Jam we've built an engaging, inclusive, and convenient way for creators and listeners to communicate, without either having to sacrifice too much of their busy day."

‍

"Making Jams is a great way to distill down the key takeaway points on more complex topics, while keeping the audience engaged and interested," said Jam creator Molly Eaton, owner of Northern Roots Bee Co. Eaton's Hive Tales Jam offers quick insights and tips for bee enthusiasts, which includes a growing number of backyard and urban beekeepers. "The brevity of my Jams is the best part - it really makes it easy for me as well as my listeners to synthesize the most essential, most interesting information with 2-3 minutes of content each week."

‍

Get connected with Jam ahead of Comic-Con 2022:

• Creators: become a Jammer here: creators.jam.ai
• Listeners: sign up for Jam and start your own custom playlist at https://join.jam.ai/ or text LISTEN to 552266

‍

Jam will be on-site at Comic-Con 2022 with a team of Jambassadors to answer questions about the platform, hand out gifts, and more.

Media Contact

EZ Newswire
hello@eznewswire.com

In collaboration with Community Libraries the Toley Ranz Foundation 4 Tolerance moves its innovative Stop Bullying Program into safe spaces for children to learn self-empowerment. And there, in those safe, bully-free atmospheres kids and parents, find a go-to place where they can learn how to strengthen self-reliance and stand-up to bullying.

‍

"Bullying destroys emotional health," said Anke Otto-Wolf, founder of Toley Ranz. "It seems Schools' dos and don'ts prevent children from learning and embracing self-belief and self-esteem. Our move into safe spaces not only opens a path to learning productive social skills as well as tolerance values, but it also contributes to thriving communities at large."

‍

The Toley Ranz Foundation's anti-bullying programs teach young children lessons of inclusion, diversity, acceptance; learning material includes books, audiobooks, guides, and Toley Ranz, the talking plush toy that represents the inner voice of children. When Toley speaks its 'psst-psst, listen- you are awesome, great job, i believe in you', children listen, no matter their learning ability.

‍

Toley Ranz Foundation is presently working in partnership with Camp Verde community library to implement the Toley Ranz Stop Bullying Program at the beginning of the new school year in September.

‍

Anke Otto-Wolf, veteran educator, creator of Toley Ranz and the Foundation, said 'Reaching the soul of a child is transforming a Life'. Anke has developed several award-winning anti-bullying programs geared to children's right to live happy and fear free. Anke is an award-winning author and life coach; she lives and works in Sedona, Arizona.

Media Contact

EZ Newswire
hello@eznewswire.com

With the cost of energy and fossil fuels rising throughout the summer,  Southern Trust Home Services, a leading electrical, HVAC and plumbing company serving southwest Virginia, says homeowners should employ a number of tips and tricks to lower their utility and energy costs while still staying cool.

‍

"Utility bills in Virginia and all across the country could spike as much as 12 to 20% this season, so finding ways to save money on our summer energy bills is a priority for most homeowners," said Ted Puzio, owner of Southern Trust Home Services. "There are a number of ways we can reduce our energy costs this summer while still beating the heat."

‍

Puzio recommends:

1. Installing ceiling fans or placing box fans around the home. Fans don't cool the air themselves, but they do assist a home's air conditioning unit by moving colder air around. Fans also help dry the humid air that can hold heat.
2. Upgrade or tune-up the air conditioner. Air conditioning units need to be properly maintained to work at their most efficient, so homeowners should have their system tuned up on a yearly basis. However, if a home's AC unit is more than 15 years old, a homeowner should consider upgrading to a newer system that has a high ENERGY STAR Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating.
3. Add low-flow water fixtures. Since water use increases in the summer, homeowners can find more savings by adding low-flow fixtures to their showerheads, toilets and outdoor sprinklers. Garden lovers should also only water first thing in the morning or late in the evening to allow plants to soak up their fill. Afternoon sun can evaporate the water before plant roots can drink it in.
4. Close the blinds and seal up the home. Keeping blinds closed during the middle of the day blocks the heat of the afternoon sun which lessens the work on air conditioners. Adding weather stripping to doors and windows can also keep cool air from leaking out of the home.
5. Turn up the thermostat. Raising the thermostat by a few degrees can save hundreds of dollars each summer. Coupled with adding ceiling and box fans, homeowners can save money while still moving cool air throughout the home.
6. Cook outdoors or later at night. Instead of firing up the stove for the evening meal, homeowners can keep the heat outside by grilling their dinners on the patio. Families can also opt for cooking meals in slow cookers all day or by waiting until the sun goes down to turn on the oven.

‍

"And, as always, we recommend that people stay hydrated. Drinking more water is not only healthy, it helps you stay cool," Puzio said. "These tips help homeowners save money, and they also lessen the strain on their municipality's power grid, which can prevent brownouts and blackouts. We should all be doing our parts to save money and energy this summer."

Media Contact

EZ Newswire
hello@eznewswire.com

Coinciding with the one-year anniversary of the Florida Wildlife Corridor Act, a new statewide campaign, Live Wildly, is launching to illustrate how the 18-million-acre Corridor touches Floridians' everyday lives, right down to their food and water supply, and its support of local economies, community wellness and iconic species like the Florida panther.

‍

Live Wildly is the first campaign of the newly established Live Wildly Foundation, a non-profit organization backed by Tampa businessman and philanthropic leader Arnie Bellini. The Foundation is working with dozens of conservation impact partners across the Sunshine State including Conservation Florida, the Florida Wildlife Corridor Foundation, Path of the Panther, Archbold Biological Station, Florida Wildlife Federation and Florida Trails Association to support their on-the-ground efforts to protect the Corridor.
‍

‍
Florida has long been a national leader in conservation, and the enactment of the Florida Wildlife Corridor Act adds fresh excitement and bolsters momentum. Live Wildly is an effort to build on that progress by educating people across the state about the Corridor as the work to secure all 18 million acres continues.

‍

"With more than 1,000 people moving to Florida every day, preserving these unprotected areas and positioning nature as a green infrastructure solution for the state is even more urgent," said Arnie Bellini, founder of Live Wildly. "Yet, few Floridians are aware of the Corridor, its impact or the urgency to connect it - and that's where Live Wildly comes in. When we connect citizens to the Corridor through the things they care about most, we capture their hearts and mobilize action."

‍

Live Wildly will launch its first PSA campaign (Public Service Announcement), including TV, radio and out-of-home ads in English and Spanish that highlight the Corridor's central role in Florida's ecology and economy. The campaign also has Florida-focused digital features including an interactive map to help locals and visitors connect to the Corridor in their backyard, including recreational opportunities like hiking, biking or camping.

‍

Today, nearly 10 million acres have been protected in Florida thanks to the dedication of many conservationists. Live Wildly intends to jump-start a movement to help secure the remaining eight million acres still unprotected.

‍

"We are thrilled to link arms with Live Wildly to promote a groundswell of support for the protection of our wildlife corridor," said Traci Deen, president and CEO of Conservation Florida.

‍

"The important work happening by conservation partners statewide, coupled with citizen action is just what we need to protect our wildlife, water, wild places and a $9 billion ecotourism industry."

‍

Throughout the United States and around the globe, Wildlife Corridors are gaining attention as a solution for knitting together critical habitats, helping to prevent species extinction and creating new economies for local communities. In the U.S. alone, there are dozens of initiatives to jump-start the connection and protection of Wildlife Corridors and there is broad support from citizens to value and protect nature. The Florida Wildlife Corridor stands to be a model for public-private partnership, citizen advocacy and grassroots support that other Corridor initiatives could learn from and replicate.

Media Contact

EZ Newswire
hello@eznewswire.com

A new electronics repair shop, Asurion Tech Repair & Solutions™, has opened on Fort Carson at the Army & Air Force Exchange Service shopping center, 6110 Martinez Street. The store offers professional fixes for most consumer electronics, from smartphones, tablets and computers to game consoles, smart speakers, drones and more.

‍

While common repairs include cracked screens, battery issues and water damage, the company's repair experts have fixed millions of devices and can help with most any tech mishap, and many basic repairs can be completed in 45 minutes or less.

‍

"We all rely on technology to keep us connected, none more than military families," said Asurion Tech Repair & Solutions CEO Dave Barbuto. "I come from an Army family myself and served as an infantry officer for eight years, so I know firsthand what a lifeline technology can be – whether you're on base here in the states or deployed overseas. At Asurion Tech Repair & Solutions, we're excited to make life just a little easier for those stationed, living and working on base, with expert tech help available where and when they need it. We make sure your tech is working, so you never have to be disconnected from the things that matter most to you."

‍

The store's expert repair technicians fix all kinds of technology, regardless of make or model, and the store is an authorized repair provider for Samsung Galaxy® and Google Pixel™ smartphones. Soldiers and families at Fort Carson can book a repair appointment online or stop by the store for walk-in service. The store offers free, no-obligation diagnostics on all gadgets, as well as a 1-year limited warranty on all repairs. It even offers a price match guarantee on any local competitor's regularly published price for the same repair.

‍

The new Asurion Tech Repair & Solutions store brings the company's retail footprint to more than 750 locations across the U.S. Formerly known as uBreakiFix®, all U.S. locations will rebrand as Asurion Tech Repair & Solutions throughout 2022.

‍

The new store is located at:

‍

Asurion Tech Repair & Solutions
Army & Air Force Exchange Service Shopping Center
6110 Martinez St, Fort Carson, CO 80913
(719) 960-5560

Media Contact

EZ Newswire
hello@eznewswire.com

STILLY, the new brand of ready-to-drink cocktails in a can that was released to liquor stores across Minnesota earlier this month, is already making a big splash among consumers.

‍

STILLY beverages are NOT seltzers, and they're not your ordinary cocktails in a can; they're an all-new category of unique adult beverages called a "stilly." A "stilly" is a light and refreshing cocktail made with premium vodka or other distilled spirits, fine bubbles, a squeeze of natural juices, and natural flavors. The exact ingredients and processes used to make a "stilly" are a closely guarded secret, but consumers are proving to love the taste of this unique and naturally refreshing beverage.

‍

STILLY branded beverages hit liquor stores throughout Minnesota days before the 4th of July holiday. A little over two weeks later, consumers can find them in over 300 liquor stores across Minnesota. New stores are being added daily.

‍

"We have been overwhelmed by the demand and could not be more excited for what's ahead," said Nick Barthelemy, CEO and Co-founder of STILLY SPIRITS, LLC., based out of Stillwater, MN. "We are already selling through supply into late summer and fall. We are thrilled people love our product as much as we do."

‍

The company introduced three distinctly delicious flavors of the "vodka stilly" in a variety pack (6 cans/3 flavors) of 12 oz slim cans for $14.99. The three varieties available now include "Partymaker+" (cranberry lime), "Vibe Machine" (grapefruit), and "The Fuzz" (peach). More flavors will hit the market soon.  

‍

"We rarely see a launch this successful. Customers are buying out the product within days of it reaching stores," said Keith Donovan, general sales manager for Bellboy Corporation, the distributor of STILLY branded beverages. "We pre-sold the entire first run before it even hit the production line, and the demand from our customers continues to grow with every person who tastes it."

‍

What started as an idea less than a year ago, with the support of family and friends, has turned into not only a new product line but a lifestyle brand. "We all live for the enjoyable moments in life. So we want to inspire people to take a moment, crack a STILLY and a smile, relax, have fun, and enjoy the STILLY Life, all while making memories together," said Barthelemy.

‍

Later this summer, the company will launch a line of merchandise, including hats, T-shirts, coolers, golf accessories, boat flags, etc., to be sold on Stilly.com.

Media Contact

EZ Newswire
hello@eznewswire.com

A new electronics repair shop, Asurion Tech Repair & Solutions™, has opened in Grass Valley, located in the Fowler Center at 2108 Nevada City Highway. The store offers professional fixes for most consumer electronics, from smartphones, tablets, and computers to game consoles, smart speakers, drones, and more.

‍

While common repairs include cracked screens, battery issues, and water damage, the company's repair experts have fixed millions of devices and can help with most any tech mishap, and many basic repairs can be completed in 45 minutes or less.

‍

The store is owned by Anita and Ken Gardella.

‍

"We are excited to serve people in Grass Valley with fast and affordable tech repair," said Anita Gardella. "By offering free diagnostics on all device issues, matching competitors' prices, and guaranteeing fast-turnarounds on device repairs, we're dedicated to making our customers' experience affordable and convenient."

‍

The store's expert repair technicians fix all kinds of technology, regardless of make or model, and the store is an authorized repair provider for Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel smartphones. Customers can book a repair appointment online or by calling the store at (530) 977-2003. Walk-in service is also available. The store offers free, no-obligation diagnostics on all gadgets, as well as a 1-year limited warranty on all repairs. It even offers a price match guarantee on any local competitor's regularly published price for the same repair.

‍

The new Asurion Tech Repair & Solutions store brings the company's retail footprint to more than 750 locations across the U.S. Formerly known as uBreakiFix®, all U.S. locations will rebrand as Asurion Tech Repair & Solutions throughout 2022.

‍

"We are excited to expand our presence throughout Northern California," said Dave Barbuto, CEO of Asurion Tech Repair & Solutions. "We all rely on our phones and laptops more than ever before, and our mission is bigger than repairing shattered screens and broken charge ports. We fix tech because people depend on it to stay connected to things that are important to them. I look forward to serving this community through our new location."

‍

The new store is located at:

‍

Asurion Tech Repair & Solutions
2108 Nevada City Hwy, Grass Valley, CA 95945
(530) 977-2003

Media Contact

EZ Newswire
hello@eznewswire.com

Warmies®, creators of the world's most soothing stuffed animals and wellness items, announced today that their Fully Microwavable Sloth Warmies® have been selected as a winner of this year's Creative Child and Baby Maternity Magazine Awards. Warmies® are fully microwavable stuffed animals that provide hours of soothing warmth and comfort. Warmies® are scented with real dried French lavender, perfectly weighted to aid sleep, ease anxiety, provide the ultimate relaxation, and are safe for all ages.

‍

Creative Child and Baby Maternity Magazine, published by Scooterbay Publishing, Inc., hosted their 20th Annual awards program this month. This program honors the best toys, games, and youth products that are unique and demonstrate creativity. Entries are evaluated by real moms and judged against a high standard of merit in their category of entry. Sloth Warmies® won in the Baby Sensory and Toddler Soothing Products categories.

‍

"This year, we received nearly 400 product entries from 250 companies," said Scott Reichert, Publisher at Scooterbay Publishing. "Winning a Creative Child Award illustrates the manufacturers' creativity, skill, and dedication to their craft and serves as a testament to great production."

‍

Each year, moms and early education professionals are invited to review the latest and greatest products. Unlike other review programs, moms are asked to evaluate each product thoroughly, allowing every product to receive multiple reviews. One of the reviewers said the Sloth Warmies® "is soft, cuddly and very soothing." Another added, "I just tried it out on my baby and I could tell that it calmed her and would help relax her tummy when she is experiencing colic. It's a really great product."

‍

For more information, check out the full award listings:
https://awards.creativechild.com/product/4913-sloth-warmies-13
https://awards.babymaternity.com/product/4688-sloth-warmies-13

‍

In addition to Sloth Warmies®, the company has many cuddly friends, including recent additions such as a Pink Penguin, Owl, Avocado and more, that make a great gift for a loved one. The products are available at Warmies.com and retailers nationwide.

Media Contact

EZ Newswire
hello@eznewswire.com

(Family Features) Once the homework is finished and long days in the classroom and at the office are drawing to a close, you're likely to find hungry loved ones waiting near the kitchen. When busy school nights have you feeling like you're pinched for time, turn to recipes that are easy to make yet still delicious to enjoy.

‍

For a kid-friendly way to put veggies on the table, look no further than familiar favorites like tacos. These Pickled Beet Tacos put Aunt Nellie's Sliced Pickled Beets at the center of the meal combined with seasoned black beans and a creamy avocado sauce for a dinner that takes less than an hour to prepare.

‍

An added bonus: This simple recipe makes 10 servings, meaning you can rely on leftovers for lunches throughout the week or a second dinner on an evening when after-school activities leave little time for cooking.

‍

If dinner plans call for a low-stress side dish or lighter meal, serve up Italian Pasta and Bean Salad that requires just 15 minutes of prep and a handful of flavorful ingredients like READ 3 Bean Salad. It's a perfect complement for a variety of main courses from burgers and grilled chicken to sandwiches and beyond.

‍

Visit auntnellies.com and readsalads.com to find more meal solutions for busy school nights.

‍

Pickled Beet Tacos
Recipe courtesy of 40Aprons.com
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 10

‍

1          jar (16 ounces) Aunt Nellie's Sliced Pickled Beets

‍

Black Beans:
1          can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
3          tablespoons water
1          teaspoon paprika
1          teaspoon garlic powder
1/2       teaspoon ground cumin
1          pinch salt

‍

Quick Pickled Red Onions:
1          cup pickling liquid from Aunt Nellie's Sliced Pickled Beets jar
1          small red onion, thinly sliced

‍

Avocado Sauce:
2          ripe avocados
1          tablespoon lime juice
1          pinch salt
1/4       teaspoon garlic powder

‍

Tacos:
10        tortillas (8 inches)
           fresh chopped cilantro (optional)

‍

Drain beets; reserve liquid and set aside.

‍

To make black beans: In saucepan over medium-low heat, combine black beans, water, paprika, garlic powder, cumin and salt. Cook 5-6 minutes, or until warm; taste and adjust seasoning as desired.

‍

To make quick pickled red onions: In small pot over medium-low heat, heat reserved pickling liquid. Once simmering, add sliced red onion and cook 3 minutes.

‍

To make avocado sauce: In food processor or blender, pulse avocados, lime juice, salt and garlic powder until smooth.

‍

Assemble tacos by filling tortillas with sliced beets, black beans, pickled red onions, avocado sauce and cilantro, if desired.

‍

Italian Pasta and Bean Salad
Prep time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6

2          cups uncooked rotini pasta
1/2       cup prepared pesto
1          can (15 ounces) READ 3 Bean Salad, drained
1          cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
3/4       cup fresh mozzarella bocconcini, cut in halves or quarters
1/4       cup toasted walnuts (optional)
1/4       cup (1 ounce) shredded fresh Parmesan cheese

‍

Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and rinse under cold running water. In bowl, combine pesto with pasta to coat well.

‍

Combine pasta with drained bean salad. Stir in tomatoes and mozzarella; refrigerate.

‍

To serve, sprinkle walnuts and Parmesan cheese over top.

‍

Substitution: 3/4 cup mozzarella may be substituted for bocconcini.

Media Contact

EZ Newswire
hello@eznewswire.com

Staypineapple, a hospitality company based in the Pacific Northwest, is getting their game on by launching the GOTTA GETAWAY AND PLAY promotion that runs through September 2, 2022, and features a sweepstakes and check-out program.

‍

"We're excited to celebrate summer by creating a memorable experience that combines the fun of playing games on the Nintendo Switch system with a stay at one of our unique boutique hotels," said Steve Allison, Vice President of Revenue and Distribution for Staypineapple.

‍

GOTTA GETAWAY AND PLAY participants can enter for a chance to win one of 10 three-night hotel stays at any Staypineapple Hotel and a Nintendo Switch prize pack. Included in the prize pack is a Nintendo Switch – OLED Model system and download codes for digital versions of the Mario Strikers: Battle League, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe games.

‍

To enter the GOTTA GETAWAY AND PLAY Sweepstakes, entrants can complete the registration form on the contest page at staypineapple.com or visit any Staypineapple hotel and fill out an entry card.

‍

Staypineapple hotel guests also have the opportunity to play while they stay this summer. They can level up their vacation game by checking out a Nintendo Switch – OLED Model system which is the latest member of the Nintendo Switch family of systems. Guests will have the opportunity to check out a system that is pre-loaded with Mario Strikers: Battle League, Kirby and the Forgotten Land, and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe with the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – Booster Course Pass DLC*.

‍

For full terms and conditions of the GOTTA GETAWAY AND PLAY Sweepstakes and information on the Check-Out Program, please visit staypineapple.com.

‍

*Full version of game required to use DLC. Content will release in 6 waves of 8 courses until the end of 2023.

‍

No purchase necessary. Winners will be announced on or around September 7, 2022. Last Day for entries is September 2, 2022. Nintendo is not a sponsor, co-sponsor or administrator of this sweepstakes.

Media Contact

EZ Newswire
hello@eznewswire.com

Water heater technology has been slow to evolve in comparison to other home comfort systems. Now the new Essency EXR water heater brings game-changing homeowner-friendly technology to bear on a market that has sorely lacked consumer-centric change for many years.

‍

Designed in France as the world's first On-Demand Tank Water Heater, the Essency EXR brings tank and tankless benefits together in an easy to install, operate – and most importantly, enjoy! -- water heater. And with its stylish design and smartphone-like digital display, the EXR is certain to be a welcome addition to anyone's home.

‍

Created for homeowners who want a water heater that can reliably meet all their hot water needs, no matter how large the house and the family that resides in it, the EXR reduces that debate over whether to go with a new tank or tankless water heater to a single solution:

‍

"If you go with the EXR, you'll be happy knowing you've got a water heater that can match or exceed the hot water output capacities of any comparable water heater at the higher ends of both the conventional tank and tankless categories," says Scott Isaksen, national sales director for Essency Water Heaters (www.essencyhome.com).

‍

With its 80-gallon First Hour Rating (FHR), the EXR can supply hot water enough to handle multiple demands at once, such as showering, shaving, clothes-washing and doing the dishes. "Our FHR is the highest in the industry among comparably sized water heaters. You'd need to look at 80- and 100-gallon commercial products to do any better," says Isaksen. "We've seen people replace two 40-gallon tank water heaters, gas and electric, with one new EXR and be more than happy with the result. Homeowners choose the EXR as the more practical and productive choice for a whole-house water heating system, especially in larger homes."

‍

The EXR proved to be the best choice for a water heating system for the buyer of a new, 6,000-square-foot custom-built home in the Austin, Texas area. The homeowner initially wanted an 80-gallon water heater, to fit the expected needs of the home, says homebuilder Steve Giunta, owner of Round Rock, Texas-based Giunta Construction.

‍

But the EXR won out with its 80-gallon FHR capacity contained in a sleek, durable polymer tank that takes up about as much space as a smaller 50-gallon conventional tank unit. The whole-house solution provided by the EXR met the needs of the homebuyer, and its smartphone-based operating controls and system monitoring functionality, available through the MyEssency app, was the frosting on the cake for the "techie oriented" buyer, says Giunta.

‍

"The EXR can definitely work in the homebuilding market," says Giunta. "It was right in line with what we had in our budget for the water heater, too."

‍

Essency EXR water heaters are available exclusively in the U.S. and North America through the Ferguson distribution network: https://www.ferguson.com/category/essency/_/N-zcnb0q.

Media Contact

EZ Newswire
hello@eznewswire.com

New dating and social networking app, First Round's On Me (FROME), is now available for iOS and Android devices. Founded on the concept of bringing back real dating and driven by the pervasive need for in-person connection, FROME is an online dating app designed to get people off their phones and together in real life. With its unique feature offering discounts at some of LA's hottest bars, coffee shops and restaurants, FROME also helps users find the perfect date spot, and alleviate the stress (and awkwardness!) when it comes to the bill.

‍

The inspiration behind the name First Round's On Me is a nod to a time when people met for the first time, by chance, in person. You'd see someone across the bar, go up to them and ask if you could buy them a drink. In today's online dating world, and especially during a global pandemic with exposure to social and professional interactions slowly coming back, this "natural" style of meeting rarely occurs. Over the years, singles have gravitated towards a digital dating experience — whether they like it or not.  With its venue partnerships offers and prompts to actively set up dates, FROME helps facilitate the old school way of kismet experiences in dating through the comfort and safety of their home.

‍

"I am proud to help humans connect and stop relying only on technology," says founder and CEO, Joe Feminella who was inspired to design FROME after years spent on dating apps that never resulted in actual in person dates.  Disillusioned with a dearth of bland digital interactions and the endless swiping cycle, he was motivated to find a way to encourage people to put the phone down and set a date to get to know each other in person, how he believes people should get to know each other.

‍

"The dating-app world is saturated, yet it consistently leaves people unsatisfied. The more time I spent swiping, the more I realized it wasn't an effective way to make a real connection. Technology has solved so many problems in today's world, but one thing it hasn't done and probably will never do, is help people fall in love. That needs to be done in person." says Feminella.

‍

With an emphasis on both inclusivity and intimacy, FROME melds the ease of technology with the value of organic meetings: Instead of forcing users to rely on an app for a potentially infinite amount of time, it motivates them to get out in public and meet each other. Each time a user signs on, they have the option to select between one of two modes: Available Today (those free for a date tonight) and Available This Week (those who like to plan ahead). When a user finds someone they're interested in, they send an invitation for a time and place to meet for a drink. If the recipient accepts — it's date! The date is then added to their calendars, (one date per day, Romeo!). One of the app's unique features is a time-based chat made available six hours prior to the date, giving users some time to break the ice before meeting in person later that day. From there, the rest is up to them!

‍

FROME is proud to be partnering with a number of Los Angeles bars and coffee spots, including The Bungalow, Cha Cha Matcha, Juneshine, Library Alehouse, Independence Bar and Bravo Toast. A premium version of the FROME app will be launched later in 2022 and is slated to hit other major U.S. cities including Miami, New York, Austin, Dallas, and Chicago, in the coming year.

‍

For more information, visit firstroundsonme.co or follow us on Instagram @firstroundsonme

Media Contact

EZ Newswire
hello@eznewswire.com

An exceptional array of artists will deliver electrifying performances at the 11th Annual John Coltrane International Jazz and Blues Festival, led by Patti LaBelle, Christian McBride with Inside Straight, Chris Botti, and Kirk Whalum with Keiko Matsui. The annual event will be held over Labor Day weekend at Oak Hollow Park, Sept. 3-4, 2022.

‍

Having been on the music scene for more than 60 years, LaBelle will headline the Saturday lineup. The two-time Grammy Award-winner led the Bluebelles in the 1960s, the groundbreaking group LaBelle in the 1970s, and has maintained an enduring solo career since the 80s. Her latest music venture is the jazz album "Bel Hommage," released on her own label, GPE Records.

‍

Eight-time Grammy Award-winner and acclaimed jazz bassist Christian McBride is the co-headliner for Saturday with his band Inside Straight. They are at the pinnacle of performing mainstream jazz in a live venue. Members of Inside Straight are pianist Peter Martin, vibraphonist Warren Wolf, saxophonist Steve Wilson, and drummer Carl Allen. Six musicians play as the Masters of Smooth ensemble. Soprano saxophonist Marion Meadows, pianist composer Alex Bugnon, celebrated six string bass player Gerald Veasley, saxophonist Jessy J, Poogie Bell on the drums, and Karyn White, who recorded the smash hit female anthem "Superwoman."

‍

Two Grammy Award-winning artists who have each embraced the cultural resonance of their homelands will add the rhythms of Latin Jazz to the Saturday lineup. Puerto Rican-born pianist and composer Marlow Rosado will be joined by Cuban vocalist and songwriter Aymée Nuviola to add a distinguishing facet to the festival's musical offering.

‍

Chris Botti, the Grammy Award-winning and multi-platinum-selling trumpeter whose live shows have made him a worldwide sensation, will headline the Sunday lineup. He has cross-genre skills and the ability to set an ambiance with everything from jazz to pop to rock.

‍

Saxophonist Kirk Whalum and pianist Keiko Matsui will perform together blending their musical panache. Whalum brings together elements of gospel, blues, and jazz while Matsui utilizes space in her music to create a backdrop of drama and tension.

‍

For a blues counterpoint the legendary rust belt bluesman, Larry McCray is on the Sunday lineup. Known for his singing and rousing guitar style, McCray was one of the first to blend elements of blues, rock, and soul into a new sound.

‍

Eclecticism incarnate is drummer Cindy Blackman Santana. She has toured the globe and made albums with diverse artists including Pharoah Sanders, John Medeski, Lenny Kravitz, and her husband Carlos Santana.

‍

The John Coltrane International Jazz and Blues Festival (JCIJBF) honors Coltrane, a High Point, NC, native son who graduated from William Penn High School, now Penn Griffin School of the Arts. Ticket information and festival details are available at coltranejazzfest.com.

Media Contact

EZ Newswire
hello@eznewswire.com

For the second consecutive year, Hispanic Communications Network (HCN) and the American Cancer Society (ACS) launched the Return to Screening campaign to raise awareness and understanding among Spanish speaking audiences about the importance of regular cancer screening tests; specifically, breast, cervical, colorectal and prostate cancers.

‍

The campaign's theme is "Cancer screening saves lives" and will consist of video and digital assets with timely, relevant, and culturally appropriate information and resources which highlight the benefits of cancer screening while also addressing cultural, language and other barriers in order to promote cancer screening as an important part of annual health check-ups.

‍

One of the newest features of this year's campaign is the development of an interactive online quiz that will allow Latinos to receive, in a minute or less, recommendations of cancer screening tests based on their age and family history, as well as links to detailed information.  Additionally, quiz users will receive a link to the ground-breaking video "The Conversation'' which addresses the dynamics of healthcare within multigenerational Latinx families.

‍

"As a woman, I am particularly proud that HCN is working hand in hand with ACS to launch and develop this meaningful health campaign, and all of its new features like the quiz, the video and other digital elements. These will serve as  important tools that deliver easy to understand, lifesaving and actionable information and resources to our Hispanic audiences," said Alison Rodden, Chief Executive Officer of HCN.

‍

Beginning the week of July 18, 2022, HCN will activate its owned La Red Hispana digital and social media platforms with these digital tools to encourage target Hispanic audiences to learn more about cancer screenings via the ACS in-language and in-culture call to action (cancer.org/revisate-ya), and encourage cancer screening practices by providing access to ACS' resources and materials.

‍

For more information, please contact Yelena Grillet at (786) 247-7194 or yelena.grillet@hcnmedia.com.

Media Contact

EZ Newswire
hello@eznewswire.com

Element451 today announced that customer growth has resulted in the company doing as much business in the first half of 2022 as it did in all of 2021.

‍

This record success represents a diverse mix of colleges — from large community colleges like Wake Tech in North Carolina to online programs at San Jose State University to public universities like Texas A&M San Antonio to faith-based institutions like Appalachian Bible College in West Virginia.

‍

Each has committed to elevating the student experience and keeping learners engaged and feeling valued in a digital world.

‍

Barriers like limited budget, staff, and deeply entrenched, reactive ways of communicating are all factors behind why many colleges fall short on their effort to meaningfully connect with students. In the U.S., drop-out rates are roughly 40% for undergraduate students; this segment of the higher ed student population is largely low-income and first-generation, four times higher than second-generation students.

‍

To open more doors to previously unreachable students, colleges are using AI and behavioral intelligence to facilitate a highly personalized, student-led engagement experience.

‍

"We're seeing more and more schools make strategic shifts to be out in front of students with communications that are based on students' individual preferences and needs, not the school's," explains Todd Heilman, chief customer success officer for Element451 who led enrollment and student success operations for over two decades before joining the company.

‍

"Our clients are seeing higher engagement with prospects because our vast, proprietary database of student engagement behavior is optimizing their efforts," said Ardis Kadiu, CEO of Element451. "That intelligence combined with advanced marketing automation and communication tools is changing the game for how schools can anticipate and meet student needs."

‍

Element451 clients and the larger higher education community will gather in person and virtually next week for the Engage Summit. The free conference will focus on personalizing the enrollment journey for today's ultra-savvy, time-constrained learner. Registration is open to all.

Media Contact

EZ Newswire
hello@eznewswire.com

A&S Decor World launches as Sacramento's newest and most luxurious home decor store aimed at offering high-end and unique specialty items. Customers will be able to elevate their home decor and interior design with the unique pieces sold at A&S Decor World.

"A&S Decor World, my second business, will bring extravagant home decor to the community," said founder Serob Darbinyan. Darbinyan is also the owner of A&S Fresh Meat & Deli, purveyor of fresh and high-quality meat in the Sacramento community.

Launching August 25 at 10138 Coloma Road, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670, A&S Decor World will offer a variety of luxury household items made by well-known artists for the home and kitchen.
‍

For more information, visit: www.ourdecorworld.com

‍

Media Contact

‍

EZ Newswire
hello@eznewswire.com

Media Contact

EZ Newswire
hello@eznewswire.com

Magnolia Wash Holdings, a premium express car wash operator, announced today it has grown its portfolio of express car wash locations to include approximately 70 across Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. In the last six months, Magnolia has increased its presence in the Southeast by nearly 38 percent – fueling the company's efforts to reach 100 locations by the end of 2022. This momentum comes at a perfect time, as the company welcomes Samuel Freeman as the new chief development officer. In this new role, Freeman will leverage his expertise to develop and execute strategic initiatives supporting Magnolia's vision and goals.

‍

Freeman joins Magnolia Wash Holdings at an exciting period for the rapidly growing operator of express car wash brands. After an explosive six months, Magnolia's commitment to investing in operational excellence, customer experience, company culture, and innovative technology helped the brand grow across new key markets. Through mergers and acquisitions, as well as new-to-industry locations, the company welcomed more than 20 units since the start of the year and is projected to increase their unit count of car wash locations by 100 units each year for the next five years.

‍

"The tremendous success we've had at Magnolia Wash Holdings in such a short period of time is truly humbling. Our team has been and remains to be dedicated to finding the right express car wash brands to bring into our portfolio and as we look at our projections for the next six months, we're excited for the opportunity to continue to build upon the momentum we've created so far," said Jose Costa, chief executive officer of Magnolia Wash Holdings. "We're currently adding anywhere from five to ten locations a month and plan to double our size very soon. As we grow our presence across this industry, it's critical that we have a strong leadership team that can support our goals and vision for Magnolia. We are thrilled to have Samuel join the company as Chief Development Officer. His experience in exceeding revenue and growth benchmarks, as well as effectively leading and managing company initiatives, is exactly what we need in the person leading development for Magnolia."

‍

Freeman brings a wealth of industry experience developing and managing large-scale expansion projects for legacy automotive retail brands. Prior to joining Magnolia, Freeman served as Vice President of Real Estate and Corporate Development at Icahn Automotive Group, managing real estate for a 1,000+ company-owned automotive service locations.

‍

"The past few months have been instrumental in positioning Magnolia as a leader in the express car wash industry. A major contributor to this success is the team's mission to maintain an entrepreneurial, small business spirit, which also sets us apart from others in the space," said Freeman. "We're at a pinnacle moment and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work alongside a best-in-class team and use my prior experience to take the company to the next level."

‍

With a strong development pipeline for the remainder of 2022, Magnolia is in the midst of aggressive expansion. The express car wash operator is actively seeking acquisitions and development opportunities throughout the Southeast. For more information about development opportunities with Magnolia Wash Holdings, please visit magnoliawashholdings.com.

Media Contact

EZ Newswire
hello@eznewswire.com

NuggMD, the nation's leading medical marijuana telemedicine platform, is launching its service in Michigan for just $99 per evaluation for a limited time. Since its founding in 2015, NuggMD has connected over 1,000,000 patients to their medical marijuana physicians in California, Connecticut, Illinois, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Virginia.

‍

In November 2019, just before recreational sales began, Michigan had 268,566 medical marijuana patients and 36,392 caregivers. By June 2021, nearly a year and a half later, the state still had 252,330 and 30,670. This small dip sharply contrasts with other states, which saw the number of registered patients plummet shortly after legalization.

‍

"Having a medical marijuana card is still a huge advantage for patients in Michigan," says Alex Milligan, NuggMD Co-founder and CMO. "You can assign a caregiver for cultivation, avoid the 10% excise tax, get extra discounts, access cannabis in cities that ban recreational sales, and even receive legal protections in medical-only states that offer reciprocity when traveling. It's easy to see why the medical marijuana market in Michigan is still strong."

‍

Michigan's recreational cannabis laws allow anyone over 21 to cultivate up to 12 plants, but rental agencies and landlords can still restrict cultivation on their properties and often do. Patients in this situation who need commercially unpopular strains, or need to grow their own for other reasons can assign a caregiver to cultivate for them, often for much lower costs than dispensaries. Last year, the state legislature attempted to restrict caregiver cultivation amounts, but resistance from activist patients and caregivers derailed the restrictive legislation.

‍

"The continued strength of Michigan's medical marijuana community despite adult-use legalization is clearly due to the intense activism of patients, caregivers, and advocacy organizations," says Kam Babazade, NuggMD Co-founder and COO. "It's incredible to see the community come together to maintain Michigan's caregiver protections despite attempted legislative restrictions. We're pleased to see that many licensed dispensaries also support these efforts. They set an example we can all learn from."

‍

NuggMD's platform is available from 8 am till 10 pm seven days a week. No appointment is needed, and patients who don't qualify for Michigan's medical cannabis program won't be charged for their evaluation.

Media Contact

EZ Newswire
hello@eznewswire.com

profToday, Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center launched BellRinger, a bike ride and community movement to end cancer. BellRinger opened registration for its inaugural 25-, 50-, and 100-mile fundraising ride on Saturday, October 22, 2022 that will bring together more than 1,000 riders and raise more than $2 million. Riders include local cancer survivors, cancer researchers, and others united to end cancer. All funds raised by BellRinger will support lifesaving cancer research at Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center.

‍

"Today, and together with our partners at MedStar Health, community members, and businesses, we are proud to launch BellRinger to fund breakthroughs in cancer research," said Dr. Louis M. Weiner, Director of Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center and Director of the MedStar Georgetown Cancer Institute. "We are also proud to announce our community's goal to raise $15 million in the next five years to fund critical investments in lifesaving treatments."

‍

"For more than 50 years, the team at Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center has dedicated their work to finding ways to prevent, detect, and treat cancers, to supporting survivors and their families, and to addressing health disparities in our Washington, D.C. community," said John J. DeGioia, Georgetown University President. "With all of us coming together, BellRinger can deepen and transform our support of cancer research here at Georgetown."

‍

Riders interested in participating in BellRinger can sign up now to train for 25-, 50-, and 100-mile bike rides. BellRinger is a top-notch, fully supported ride and one of D.C.'s only rides with a 100-mile option. Riders will enjoy upscale food and beverages throughout the weekend, beginning with a kick-off party the evening before the ride (Oct. 21) at Georgetown University where riders and their guests will come together alongside their teammates to enjoy live music in a festival-like atmosphere. The ride starts from Georgetown University the following morning (Oct. 22) on a scenic course under the D.C. area's fall leaves, escorting riders out of D.C. and into rural Maryland. BellRinger riders will have access to fully stocked rest stops, on-route support vehicles, and safety officers at intersections to guide the way. The ride concludes at finishes lined with riders' friends, families, and supporters cheering them on and celebrating their physical and fundraising achievements.

‍

"If you hate cancer, there is room for you in the BellRinger community," said Chris Timko, BellRinger Executive Director. "We've designed the 25-mile course with casual and beginner riders in mind, while the 50- and 100-mile routes will pose a steeper challenge for more experienced cyclists."

‍

Those interested can click here to register and learn more. Riders can also create teams to train and fundraise together with friends and family. BellRinger is offering complimentary group training rides led by expert local ride leaders in the months leading up to BellRinger Weekend to help riders build endurance and become comfortable riding in groups.

‍

BellRinger, Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center's year-round community effort to end cancer, is a bold project to unite the community around a common cause. BellRinger's inaugural ride will take place on October 22, 2022 and stretch from Washington, D.C. to Urbana, MD. Georgetown Lombardi is the only National Cancer Institute (NCI) designated comprehensive cancer center in the D.C. area and has been a leader in cancer research for over 50-years–from breakthroughs in breast cancer treatment, to contributing to the creation of the HPV vaccine to prevent cancer, to enabling "bench to bedside" research and clinical trials with their academic health system partner, MedStar Health.

Media Contact

EZ Newswire
hello@eznewswire.com

Cribl, the leader in enabling open observability, announced today that CRN®, a brand of The Channel Company, has named Cribl to its 2022 Emerging Vendors list in the Big Data category. This annual list recognizes fast-rising technology vendors that have exhibited a commitment to driving positive change and continuous growth in the IT and security channels by delivering innovative, cutting-edge solutions.

‍

The technology vendors featured on CRN's 2022 Emerging Vendors are bringing a fresh approach to solving the IT and security challenges facing customers today, enabling their partners to deliver unique solutions that will ensure both channels' continued success.

‍

Cribl's suite of products focuses on the fast-growing field of observability, providing operations and security teams unprecedented visibility into increasingly complex infrastructure and cybersecurity environments. Cribl Stream, the company's flagship product, is a vendor-agnostic observability pipeline that gives customers the flexibility to collect, reduce, enrich, normalize, and route data from any source to any destination within their existing data infrastructure. Cribl Edge is an observability agent that allows teams to automatically detect, collect, and process observability events in real time and deliver the data to any destination, directly or through Cribl Stream. Cribl Search, the company's newest product offering currently in preview, is the first open and vendor-agnostic analytics tool to perform "search-in-place" queries on any data, in any format, at any location.

‍

"As part of our 2022 Emerging Vendors list, CRN recognizes technology vendors that are transforming the IT channel by providing revolutionary and innovative products that help customers manage ever-evolving IT demands," said Blaine Raddon, CEO of The Channel Company. "As a trusted industry resource, CRN's Emerging Vendors list gives solution providers insight into the latest groundbreaking IT channel technologies.

‍

"Cribl is honored to have been named to CRN's 2022 Emerging Vendors list," says Zac Kilpatrick, VP of Global Channels at Cribl, who was recently recognized as a Channel Chief by CRN. "At Cribl, we pride ourselves on the value and innovation we bring to our customers and partners. Our suite of products, combined with the expertise of our great channel partners, give customers across industries the ability to have the choice and control to do what they want with their IT and security data in order to drive business outcomes."

‍

Cribl has also been recognized by CRN in 2022 as a Cloud 100 Company and was named to the Big Data 100 List. The CRN 2022 Emerging Vendors list will be featured in the August 2022 issue of CRN Magazine and online at www.CRN.com/EmergingVendors.

Media Contact

EZ Newswire
hello@eznewswire.com