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Benchmark International Has Successfully Facilitated the Transaction Between L&D Mail Masters, Inc. and Ironmark
The seller, L&D Mail Masters, Inc., is a full-service direct marketing firm incorporated in 1986. They enable their clients to create campaigns that Relate, Captivate, Cultivate, and Resonate with their target audience. L&D Mail Masters, Inc. offers a wide range of solutions for direct marketing needs, from campaign design to implementation and all the services in between. Their facility enables their clients to design, print, and mail all in one location. They provide direct marketing at its best by bringing expertise, experience, passion, and professionalism to their clients.
The buyer, Ironmark, helps businesses grow by removing complexity across the marketing supply chain and bridging the digital and physical worlds for marketers. With their unique ability to strategize, execute, and measure across channels, they offer a unified solution that aligns with today’s consumer behavior. They excel in both realms, creating value for marketers whose efforts would otherwise be fragmented, disjointed, and costly.
"This strategic acquisition will hone Ironmark’s strategy of providing a complete package to their respective customers. Congratulations to all that worked tirelessly to accomplish this transaction." —Matthew Kekelis, Senior Director, Benchmark International
About Benchmark International
Benchmark International is a global M&A firm that provides business owners with creative, value-maximizing solutions for growing and exiting their businesses. Benchmark International has handled over $11 billion in transaction value across various industries from offices across the world. With decades of M&A experience, Benchmark International’s transaction teams have assisted business owners with achieving their objectives and ensuring the continued growth of their businesses. The firm has also been named the Investment Banking Firm of the Year by The M&A Advisor and the Global M&A Network as well as the #1 Sell-side Exclusive Privately-held M&A Advisor in the World by Pitchbook and Refinitiv's Global League Tables.
Media Contact
Brittney Zoeller
+1 813-898-2350



Copper Property CTL Pass Through Trust Files Amended Annual Report for the Year Ended December 31, 2023
Copper Property CTL Pass Through Trust (“the Trust”) has filed Form 10-K/A with the SEC containing its amended Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2023. The 10-K was amended to include the consolidated financial statements of Penney Intermediate Holdings LLC for the Year Ended February 3, 2024, which were not available when the Annual Report on Form 10-K was initially filed.
Additional information, including the Trust’s Monthly and Quarterly Reports, as well as other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) can be accessed via the Trust’s website at www.ctltrust.net.
About Copper Property CTL Pass Through Trust
Copper Property CTL Pass Through Trust (the “Trust”) was established to acquire 160 retail properties and 6 warehouse distribution centers (the “Properties”) from J.C. Penney as part of its Chapter 11 plan of reorganization. The Trust’s operations consist solely of owning, leasing and selling the Properties. The Trust’s objective is to sell the Properties to third-party purchasers as promptly as practicable. The Trustee of the trust is GLAS Trust Company LLC. The Trust is externally managed by an affiliate of Hilco Real Estate LLC. The Trust is intended to be treated, for tax purposes, as a liquidating trust within the meaning of United States Treasury Regulation Section 301.7701-4(d). For more information, please visit https://www.ctltrust.net/.
Forward Looking Statement
This news release contains certain “forward-looking statements”. All statements other than statements of historical fact are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may be identified by the use of forward looking terminology such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “might,” “our vision,” “plan,” “potential,” “preliminary,” “predict,” “should,” “will,” or “would” or the negative thereof or other variations thereof or comparable terminology and include, but are not limited to, the Trust’s expectations or beliefs concerning future events and stock price performance. The Trust has based these forward-looking statements on its current expectations, assumptions, estimates and projections. While the Trust believes these expectations, assumptions, estimates and projections are reasonable, such forward-looking statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond its control. These factors, including those discussed in the Trust’s Registration Statement on Form 10 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), may cause its actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. For a further list and description of such risks and uncertainties, please refer to the Trust’s filings with the SEC that are available at www.sec.gov. The Trust cautions you that the list of important factors included in the Trust’s SEC filings may not contain all of the material factors that are important to you. In addition, in light of these risks and uncertainties, the matters referred to in the forward-looking statements contained in this news release may not in fact occur. The Trust undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as otherwise required by law.
Media Contact
Jessica Cummins
+1 847-313-4755

Triomics Automates Oncology Workflows with GenAI Powered Platform, Raises $15M
Currently, oncology staff must manually search thousands of patient health records to find the right trials or care pathways for their patients. Triomics is today announcing it has raised $15M to help cancer centers streamline these workflows and process oncology data at scale by applying their framework to build, institution-tuned large language models (OncoLLM™) and use case-specific software. The company has raised from several Silicon Valley firms making pioneering investments in generative AI and healthcare, including Lightspeed, Nexus Venture Partners, General Catalyst and Y Combinator.
Manual chart review can take hours per patient, and many health systems face significant backlogs in completing key oncology-related workflows for thousands of patients. This workload leads to clinical delays, such as patients missing out on clinical trials or biomarker-driven treatments, lagging quality reporting, and provider dissatisfaction and turnover.
Triomics co-founders Sarim Khan (CEO) and Hrituraj Singh (CTO) were college friends who later worked as an MIT biotech researcher and Adobe AI researcher, respectively. They knew software existed to quickly analyze the ~20% of medical data that is stored in a uniform, structured manner, like a patient’s demographics or laboratory values. However, they realized recent advances in generative AI created the possibility of similarly analyzing the ~80% of medical data that exists in an unstructured format, like a doctor’s free-text note.
“Hrituraj and I decided to partner to build solutions leveraging the advances in the field of generative AI and LLMs to help hospital staff,” said Sarim Khan, CEO of Triomicss. “We want our solutions to reason and sound like experts in oncology.”
After developing an OncoLLM™ with Medical College of Wisconsin researchers, Triomics found that, in just minutes, it found 90% of eligible patients for clinical trials, which would have taken days or weeks for qualified nurses. It also extracted structured data points from unstructured notes at similar or higher accuracy to proprietary models like GPT4 or Claude while being 40 times cheaper. Triomics recently also published the results of its information retrieval engine for oncology, which they found to be 1.5-2 times better than other state-of-the-art retrieval models.
“Most of the solutions on the market today claim they use GenAI, but many lack published evidence. Triomics is setting themselves apart by taking a truly collaborative approach to co-developing these models,” said Bradley Taylor, Chief Research Informatics Officer at the Medical College of Wisconsin and Director of the CTSI Center for Biomedical Informatics.
Anai Kothari, a surgical oncologist at the Medical College of Wisconsin Cancer Center added: “The ability to quickly and accurately convert complex cancer data into a format that can be used to improve patient care is crucial. Triomics has been a great partner in integrating our suggestions and rigorously studying their approach to ensure safety.”
OncoLLM™ powers proprietary Triomics software that integrates with health system EHRs to complete specific clinical and administrative tasks. For example, Triomics Prism aids in patient-trial matching by prescreening oncology patients with upcoming appointments to find relevant clinical trials. Triomics Harmony curates EHR data to support quality reporting, cohort analysis and precision oncology.
Hrituraj Singh, CTO at Triomics, commented: “Our investments in our core areas of focus have been deliberate. We have successfully merged expertise in two complex functional areas: our AI researchers, who are specialized in customizing language models to specific domains, and our clinical staff, who have decades of oncology-specific experience. As a result, our software can complement the strengths of these advanced models while also proactively addressing potential flaws, all with the intricacies of cancer research and care in mind.”
Given the heightened importance of accuracy for oncology data, Triomics partners with leading academic cancer centers and researchers to develop generative AI performance and safety benchmarks and best practices. Partners include the Collaboration for Oncology-focused LLM Training (COLT), a consortium of leaders from a dozen NCI-designated cancer centers, and the Cancer Informatics for Cancer Centers (CI4CC) Society.
“We differentiate ourselves by building tailored models specifically for oncology and pairing them with GenAI native workflows,” said Sarim Khan. “While other solutions address some of the use cases we’re working on, like patient-trial matching, they are broad based solutions that use or modify legacy technologies that have proven not to have the scalability or ROI the industry is requesting.”
Triomics next plans to publish additional data on OncoLLM efficacy across a diversity of settings and patient populations, and develop software that powers additional use cases.
“Triomics is leveraging existing healthcare datasets and Generative AI to empower hospital staff to automate clinical trials and streamline cancer center workflows,” said Dev Khare, partner at Lightspeed. “We are excited to back Triomics in this important mission.”
“With robust early results for their proprietary oncology specific LLMs and partnerships with leading cancer care and research centers, Triomics is well poised to deliver significant value to cancer care providers and patients in the U.S. and globally,” said Jishnu Bhattacharjee, managing director at Nexus Venture Partners. “We are thrilled to partner with Sarim and Hrituraj to help build a remarkably impactful company!"
About Triomics
Triomics uses generative AI to streamline workflows for cancer centers. Its oncology specialized generative AI model (OncoLLMTM) and use case-specific software help cancer providers process free-text health record data at scale, match patients to clinical trials, improve quality of care operations, deliver precision oncology and more. Based in San Francisco, the company has raised $15 million from leading VC investors.
About Lightspeed
Lightspeed is a global multi-stage venture capital firm focused on accelerating disruptive innovations and trends in the Enterprise, Consumer, Health, and Fintech sectors. Over the past two decades, the Lightspeed team has backed hundreds of entrepreneurs and helped build more than 500 companies globally including Affirm, Acceldata, Carta, Cato Networks, Darwinbox Epic Games, Faire, Innovaccer, Guardant Health, Mulesoft, Navan, Netskope, Nutanix, Rubrik, Sharechat, Snap, OYO Ultima Genomics and more. Lightspeed and its global team currently manage $25B in AUM across the Lightspeed platform, with investment professionals and advisors in the U.S., Europe, India, Israel, and Southeast Asia.
About Nexus Venture Partners
Nexus Venture Partners is a leading early-stage venture capital firm partnering with extraordinary entrepreneurs to build product-first companies. With $2.6 billion under management, Nexus operates as one team across the US and India. Nexus portfolio includes Apollo.io, Aryaka, Clover Health, Delhivery, Druva, FingerprintJS, Hasura, H2O.ai, Infra Market, Kaltura, Mezi, MinIO, Observe.ai, Postman, Pubmatic, Quizizz, Rancher, Sibros, Snapdeal, TileDB, Turtlemint, Unacademy, and Zomato.
Media Contact
Bilal Mahmood
+44 7714 007257



Investments & Wealth Institute’s Certified Investment Management Analyst® (CIMA®) Certification Added to NASAA Model Rule’s Series 65/66 Exam Waiver List
Denver, CO — Investments & Wealth Institute (“the Institute”), the leading credentialing body for financial advisors and wealth management professionals, is pleased to announce that the Institute’s Certified Investment Management Analyst® (CIMA®) certification has been recognized by the North American Securities Administrators Association ("NASAA") as a designation eligible for waiver from the Series 65 or 66 exams. These exams are administered by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority and serve as minimum qualifications for new investment adviser representatives (“IARs”).
“NASAA membership’s approval of the CIMA designation to the Series 65/66 waiver list represents a major step forward for CIMA certified professionals,” said Sean Walters, CAE®, Chief Executive Officer of the Institute. “We are exceedingly proud that our CIMA certification is the first new voluntary certification to be approved and added to NASAA’s model rule in 24 years. We are aware that NASAA’s primary mission is consumer protection, and we believe this addition of the CIMA designation is consistent with an adviser’s duty of care owed to its clients.”
Walters noted that, in the year 2000, NASAA revamped the Series 65 exam from a knowledge of securities law exam to include extensive knowledge of investing in the securities markets. At the time, five professional designations were approved under the waiver section of the model rule.
“Each state must still adopt NASAA’s amended rule for CIMA certification to automatically qualify as a waiver from the Series 65 or 66 exam requirement,” commented Rob Frankel, General Counsel and Managing Director of Certifications at the Institute. “We could not be more pleased that the curriculum and exam that fuels this certification have been recognized as an appropriate waiver under the states’ licensing requirements for IARs.”
At the time of NASAA’s announcement, the Chair of the NASAA Exams Advisory Committee publicly noted that the amended rule was an enhancement to the evaluation and registration process for investment adviser representatives, while maintaining high standards within the financial services industry.
The Institute’s CIMA certification already enjoys accreditation under a global personnel certification standard by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANSI/IEC 17024), the largest multi-disciplinary accreditation body in the western hemisphere. To qualify for certification, CIMA candidates must have three years, at minimum, of verified professional experience in financial services or a related industry at the time of certification. Candidates must successfully pass two background checks—at time of application and at time of certification. The CIMA curriculum is taught through Registered Executive Education partners, including programs offered by two of the world’s most elite business schools, the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, and the Yale School of Management. Passing the exam is not easy. The average first time pass rate over the past two years is approximately 48 percent.
CIMA-certified professionals often work in roles such as investment consultants, financial planners, portfolio managers, and investment analysts. The CIMA certification program covers a wide range of topics related to creating, managing, and evaluating portfolios for individual or institutional clients. CIMA certified professionals know how to evaluate model portfolios, target-date funds, ETFs, and index funds; and perform asset allocation, manager selection, and performance attribution. They learn to manage risk and return based on client objectives—including when and how to incorporate alternative investments into client portfolios—and how to build proper investment policy statements. CIMA certified professionals understand how to apply behavioral finance to address cognitive biases in client decision-making, and how capital markets and global macroeconomic trends affect portfolio design. In summary, they are equipped to prudently assemble, evaluate, and/or manage portfolios that meet client objectives and outcomes as fiduciaries.
CIMA practitioners are required to exhibit knowledge of 89 topics, organized within 20 sections and five knowledge domains. The exam and curriculum were recently updated as the result of a professional job analysis. Approximately 3% of advisory professionals have earned and maintained the certification. However, more than 15% of teams or practices with $500M or more in AUM have at least one CIMA certified professional serving on the team. (Cerulli Associates, 2023)
About the Investments & Wealth Institute
Founded in 1985, the Investments & Wealth Institute is the premier professional association, education provider, and standards body for financial advisors. Through its award-winning events, publications, courses, and acclaimed certifications — Certified Investment Management Analyst® (CIMA®), Certified Private Wealth Advisor® (CPWA®), and Retirement Management Advisor® (RMA®) — the Institute delivers Ivy league-quality, highly practical education to more than 20,000 practitioners annually in over 40 countries. Members of the Institute include the industry's most successful investment consultants, advanced financial planners, and private wealth managers who embrace excellence and ethics in applying a broad set of knowledge and skills in their daily work with clients.
Media Contact
Allison Edmondson
+1 303-850-3207
Joseph Bish
+1 303-850-3076

SFAA Members Elect New Board, Honor Outgoing Chair at Annual Meeting
The Surety & Fidelity Association of America (SFAA), a nonprofit, nonpartisan trade association representing all segments of the surety and fidelity industry, held its annual meeting this past week with more than 185 members and guests attending. Robert Murray, SFAA Chair, Executive Committee Member, Head of Surety, Zurich North America, and Ryan Work, SFAA president and CEO, presided over the event, providing updates on SFAA’s accomplishments and ongoing initiatives.
SFAA members were on hand to celebrate outgoing SFAA Chair Robert Murray after his two-year term, in addition to congratulating him on his upcoming retirement. Murray will be succeeded as chair by Michael Keimig, president and CEO of Markel Surety Corporation. Keimig has been an active participant in the SFAA for over a decade, most recently as a Board and Executive Committee member.
Videos celebrating SFAA’s accomplishments throughout 2023 and honoring the 2023 Surety Industry Awards winners were also shared.
The SFAA Membership elected the following Board of Directors and Executive Committee in a unanimous vote.
Officers and Executive Committee Members
- Michael Keimig
- Stephen Ruschak
- John F. Welch
- Rick Ciullo
- Timothy Mikolajewski
- Antonio C. Albanese
- Bryce Grissom
Other Elected Board Members
- Ken Bearley
- John Guglielmo
- Stephen M. Haney
- James Kawiecki
- Matt Lubin,
- Robert Murray
- Alan Pavlic
- Sharon Sims
- Gary Stumper
- Larry Taylor
- Mike Zurcher
About the Surety & Fidelity Association of America (SFAA)
The Surety & Fidelity Association of America (SFAA) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan trade association representing all surety and fidelity industry segments. We promote the value of surety and fidelity bonding and its vital protections through advocacy, outreach, promotion, and education. The more than 425 member companies write 98 percent of surety and fidelity bonds in the U.S. SFAA is licensed as a rating or advisory organization in all states, and state insurance departments have designated it as a statistical agent for the reporting of fidelity and surety experience. www.surety.org
Media Contact
Peter Roth
+1 703-401-0676

Association of Pickleball Players Announces Historic Sponsorship with The James at Ohio State
The Association of Pickleball Players (APP) announced today a landmark sponsorship with The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James), one of the nation’s leading cancer research and treatment centers. The OSUCCC – James is now the presenting sponsor of the inaugural APP Women’s Open, which will take place Oct. 4-6, 2024, at Pickle & Chill in Columbus, Ohio and broadcast nationally, to kick off National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Evident in its name, this APP Signature Event will be a global platform for female competitors at all levels. The professional and amateur tournament will offer $75,000 in prize money and feature women competing in doubles and singles, including skinny singles for women 50 and over. The event will also feature social programming and entertainment designed to celebrate and fuel the growth of pickleball for women, ultimately creating a healthier and more active community. All key elements of the vibrant, multi-day event will be presented by women—from players and referees to administrators and broadcasters.
“I am thrilled to stand alongside The James to elevate and celebrate women in pickleball and support Breast Cancer Awareness Month,” said Shannon Dan, APP EVP of global partnerships. “The APP Women’s Open presented by The James will be part tournament, part festival and 100% fun for women of all ages and skill levels. It’s an event designed by and for women: a place to compete, celebrate and connect.”
The OSUCCC – James is a world-class cancer treatment and research institution. It has been a designated National Cancer Institute Comprehensive Cancer Center since 1976 and has been one of the top cancer hospitals in the nation as ranked by U.S. News & World Report for 25 years. It also has achieved Magnet® recognition, the highest honor an organization can receive for quality patient care and professional nursing practice. With 21 floors, more than 1.1 million square feet and 356 inpatient beds, The James is the third-largest cancer hospital in the nation.
In addition to the presenting sponsorship of the APP Women’s Open, The James has been named the official and exclusive hospital of the upcoming 2024 APP Vlasic Classic in Cincinnati on May 7-12, and for the APP Tour beginning in 2025.
Pickle & Chill in Columbus, Ohio, the largest dedicated indoor/outdoor pickleball facility in the Midwest, will host the first-of-its kind pickleball event. Founded in November 2022, Pickle & Chill features 19 total courts, a 30,000-square-foot event plaza, and an indoor bar and mezzanine space. Additional information on registration, tickets and more will be available at theapp.global.
About The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute
The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James), is the only cancer program in the United States that features a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer center aligned with a nationally ranked academic health center and a freestanding cancer hospital on the campus of one of the nation’s largest public universities.
The OSUCCC – James has been designated as an NCI Comprehensive Cancer Center since 1976. Also, it is one of only a few centers funded by the NCI to conduct both phase I and phase II clinical trials on novel anticancer agents provided by the NCI.
As the cancer program’s adult patient-care component, The James is one of the top cancer hospitals in the nation as ranked by U.S. News & World Report for 25 years and has achieved Magnet® recognition, the highest honor an organization can receive for quality patient care and professional nursing practice. With 21 floors, more than 1.1 million square feet and 356 inpatient beds, The James is the third-largest cancer hospital in the nation.
About the APP
The Association of Pickleball Players (APP) provides opportunities for pickleball players of all ages and skill levels—professionals, amateurs and recreational—to compete in world-class pickleball events for the opportunity to win prize money and be seen on more than 40 hours of nationally televised pickleball action on CBS Sports, ESPN and FOX Sports. Since its launch in 2019, the APP has operated the first and only pro and amateur pickleball tour fully and officially sanctioned by USA Pickleball and became the first pickleball organization ever to establish an official headquarters and training center with The Fort in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. The APP Tour’s 2024 schedule features the most robust pickleball showcase across pro and amateur competitions, with 20 events across the country offering various combinations of single, doubles and mixed doubles play as well as pro team competitions. The APP prides itself on growing the game and developing the next generation of pickleball champions through its nationwide network of APP UTR Sports Pickleball Leagues and the Doubles Dink for Cancer fundraising program benefitting the American Cancer Society; support of international pickleball events and the APP’s Atlantic Cup, featuring Team USA vs. Team Europe; and youth initiatives including the APP Junior Circuit, APP Next Gen Series and APP Next Gen U.S. National Team. The 2024 tournament schedule, recent news and additional information about the APP are available at theapp.global and on Instagram, X, Threads, TikTok, Facebook and LinkedIn.
Media Contact
Daniel Sagerman
847-800-8182

AGI Entertainment Media & Management Enters Into Partnership with PunchUp Live
AGI Entertainment Media & Management, a leading talent management and production company, has signed a partnership with PunchUp Live, the new innovative platform for comics and comedy fans alike. The collaboration marks a pivotal moment for PunchUp, affirming its significance and necessity in the entertainment landscape, while also setting a precedent for management companies like AGI to support their clients' success utilizing data-driven strategies. The deal will provide AGI's comedy touring clients with PunchUp's proprietary services, offering a direct pathway for them to convert media exposure into ticket sales.
PunchUp Live, co-founded by former Meta executive Danny Frenkel and Alex Dajani, is a trailblazer in connecting comedians directly with their fan base and providing critical analytics on what drives ticket sales. Recognizing the misaligned incentives of current social media platforms and other distribution channels to relinquish data on their fans, Frenkel and Dajani created PunchUp Live, empowering comedians to manage their careers autonomously. This initiative is reshaping the landscape of comedy in the digital era by giving comedians control over their content and audience data. Furthermore, the platform provides easy consumer navigation to watch content, purchase tickets, and buy their favorite comedian’s merchandise.
Under this exclusive agreement, AGI Entertainment Media & Management’s comedy touring clients will gain access to a suite of services tailored to maximize their reach and impact:
- Proprietary Technological Analysis: Leveraging cutting-edge technology to analyze the sources of ticket sales, providing valuable insights to optimize marketing strategies.
- Paid Media Support: Amplifying clients' visibility through targeted Facebook/Instagram ads and location-specific email campaigns.
- Content Editing and Posting: Streamlining content creation and dissemination, ensuring maximum engagement across digital platforms.
- Fan Data Accumulation: Facilitating the accumulation of fan data both online and in-person, empowering comedians with a deeper understanding of their audience.
- AI-Driven Insights: Harnessing AI analysis to identify the optimal times for posting content to drive ticket sales.
"We are thrilled to embark on this partnership with PunchUp Live," remarks Kenneth Slotnick, CEO of AGI Entertainment Media & Management. "This collaboration underscores our commitment to providing our clients with innovative solutions that amplify their reach and impact in the ever-evolving entertainment landscape. We are here to support our clients and are excited about the possibilities PunchUp presents for our roster of talented artists."
In response to the partnership, Danny Frenkel, co-founder of PunchUp Live, says, "We are delighted to join forces with AGI Entertainment Media and Management. This partnership represents a significant step forward in our mission to empower artists and revolutionize the comedy industry. We are thrilled AGI is taking advantage of our services to further support their clients. Together, we will continue to push boundaries and redefine the way comedians connect with their audience. This is only the beginning."
Comedians currently working with PunchUp include: Roy Wood Jr, Tim Dillon, Gary Gulman, Phil Hanley, Sam Morril, Mark Normand, Jordan Jensen, Jared Freid, Are You Garbage Podcast, Rachel Feinstein, Adam Ray, Joe List, Robert Kelly, Rick Glassman, Steve Byrne, Yannis Pappas, Chris Gethard, Nimesh Patel, Zoltan Kaszas, Francis Ellis, Carmen Lynch, Avery Pearson, Caitlin Peluffo, Aaron Berg, Mike Cannon, Caitlin Cook, Mike Feeney, Eddie Pepitone, Ian Fidance, Raanan Hershberg, Tanael Joachim (TJ), Joe Kilgallon, Nathan Macintosh, Josh Adam Meyers, Eric Neumann, Dan Perlman, Matt Ruby, Joey Mulinaro.
A complete press kit for PunchUp Live can be found here.
About AGI Entertainment Media & Management
AGI Entertainment Media and Management, LLC, a Y Entertainment Group company, is a leading artist management and production company in the entertainment industry, representing a diverse roster of talented artists across various categories and platforms. With a focus on innovation and strategic partnerships, AGI is committed to empowering artists and creators to reach their fullest potential.
About PunchUp Live
PunchUp Live is an innovative platform founded by former Meta executive Danny Frenkel and Alex Dajani. Revolutionizing the comedy industry, PunchUp connects comedians with their fans, enabling independent career navigation with minimal censorship while offering comprehensive analytics and show-finding features. Visit punchup.live for more information.
Media Contact
MJ Brackin



PrestigePEO Wins Two Stevie Awards in 2024 American Business Awards
PrestigePEO, one of the nation’s largest professional employer organizations (PEO), announced today it was named winner of two Bronze Stevie® Awards in both the Company of the Year – Business & Professional Services – Medium and Achievement in Sales or Revenue Generation categories of The 22nd Annual American Business Awards®.
The American Business Awards are the U.S.A.’s premier business awards program. All organizations operating in the U.S.A. are eligible to submit nominations – public and private, for-profit and non-profit, large and small. Nicknamed the Stevies for the Greek word meaning “crowned,” the awards will be presented to winners at a gala ceremony at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York on Tuesday, June 11. Tickets are now on sale.
PrestigePEO was recognized in this prestigious competition for its distinctive model and service offering to small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) as well as its commitment to customer service, market expansion, and introduction of innovative solutions. As a PEO, PrestigePEO supports SMBs nationwide by providing an extensive menu of human resources and administrative services to expand their employee benefits offerings and provide their HR operations with deep guidance and expertise.
“This recognition is a tribute to PrestigePEO’s team. They work tirelessly every day to ensure our clients and their employees receive exceptional service and a broad portfolio of best-in-class benefits options. Our distinctive service model is dedicated to the delivery of top-notch service, which is the primary reason why PrestigePEO was recognized by the Stevie Awards program,” commented PrestigePEO’s Chief Operating Officer Robyn Rusignuolo.
“From our humble roots as an entrepreneurial start-up organization in 1998, PrestigePEO has since morphed into one of the nation’s top PEOs. We earned this ranking not only from our ever-increasing menu of benefits and services but also because of the people we employ, the diverse companies we serve, and our unrelenting efforts to continually expand our offerings. We thank the judges for recognizing our company and team,” said PrestigePEO Chief Executive Officer Andrew Lubash.
An excess of 3,700 nominations from organizations of all sizes and in virtually every industry were submitted this year for consideration in a wide range of categories. More than 300 professionals worldwide participated in the judging process to select this year’s Stevie Award winners.
Details about The American Business Awards and the list of 2024 Stevie winners are available at www.StevieAwards.com/ABA.
About the Stevie Awards
Stevie Awards are conferred in nine programs: the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, the German Stevie Awards, the Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards, The American Business Awards®, The International Business Awards®, the Stevie Awards for Women in Business, the Stevie Awards for Great Employers, the Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service, and the new Stevie Awards for Technology Excellence. Stevie Awards competitions receive more than 12,000 entries each year from organizations in more than 70 nations. Honoring organizations of all types and sizes and the people behind them, the Stevies recognize outstanding performances in the workplace worldwide. Learn more about the Stevie Awards at http://www.StevieAwards.com.
About PrestigePEO
Melville, N.Y.-based PrestigePEO, also known as Prestige Employee Administrators LLC, provides integrated, end-to-end outsourced solutions to small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) for managing all integral benefits and human resources operations. This includes support for employee benefits management, payroll administration, workers’ compensation, compliance, and HR guidance, among other areas. PrestigePEO’s full spectrum of solutions helps SMBs lower employee benefit costs, reduce administrative workloads, and manage critical HR functions.
PrestigePEO is among only 1% of PEOs accredited by the Employer Services Assurance Corporation (ESAC), certified (CI) through Workers Comp Risk Management and classified as a Certified Professional Employer Organization (CPEO) by the IRS – demonstrating financial stability and strict adherence with a diverse range of regulatory and security standards.
To learn more, visit www.prestigepeo.com and follow PrestigePEO on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube.
Media Contact
Susan Turkell
+1 303-766-4343



AdvicePay Promotes Kelsey Lewis to President
AdvicePay, the industry-leading platform for processing payments and overseeing compliance of fee-for-service financial planning, announced today that it has appointed Kelsey Lewis as President, promoting the former Head of Customer Success to the No. 2 position at the company, where she will closely collaborate with founder and CEO Alan Moore to execute on his vision.
Lewis joined AdvicePay in December of 2021 as the firm’s first Head of Customer Success and helped build the team and systems that ensure AdvicePay is delivering on its promises to customers. In that role, Lewis worked with many of the industry’s largest RIAs and broker-dealers, overseeing customer success and support efforts, including onboarding, relationship management, and solutions consulting. Her efforts helped AdvicePay achieve a 36% increase in transaction volume while maintaining a 100% enterprise customer retention rate.
"After conducting a thorough search that included internal and external candidates, the board unanimously agreed that Kelsey is the right person to help lead this company into the future," Moore said. "Kelsey has been a key contributor to AdvicePay’s leadership team, and this promotion reflects her commitment to our customers and her passion for furthering AdvicePay’s strong culture and mission. I look forward to working with her to create a blueprint for delivering on our ambitious growth strategy as industry and consumer demand for fee-for-service planning continues to grow over the next several years."
In her new President role, Lewis will serve as an Integrator, overseeing day-to-day company management and ensuring all departments are working closely to execute on the strategic goals of the company. She will also serve as the highest point of escalation for customers.
"I am incredibly, deeply honored to take on this new role at AdvicePay, a company whose core values resonate deeply with me," Lewis said. "Having spent most of my career in a customer-facing role, I am acutely aware of their needs and priorities. We are serving more advisory firms than ever, and by elevating me to this important leadership position from being Head of Customer Success, AdvicePay and its Board are demonstrating their customer-centric focus and commitment at the highest level. I am committed to nurturing the collaborative and people-first culture of AdvicePay as we continue to grow."
Before joining AdvicePay, Lewis held positions as the Director of Operations at a consumer goods company, and before that, was the Director of Client Experience at a learning management software company. Lewis earned her MBA from the University of Utah – David Eccles School of Business. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in marketing from Westminster University.
About AdvicePay
Established by well-known financial advisors Michael Kitces and Alan Moore, AdvicePay is the industry-leading platform for overseeing the compliance, delivery, and payment processing of fee-for-service financial planning. Financial services firms and their advisors benefit from efficient workflows designed exclusively to support their fee-for-service financial planning revenue, including up-to-date compliance and data security management, all in one unified platform.
Media Contact
Shannon Beck
+1 406-412-2047

The Bethune/Height Recognition Program Announces Its 50th Anniversary Gala
Join us for the 50th Anniversary NYS Bethune/Height Recognition Program (BHRP) gala, hosted by the esteemed National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), acknowledging a half-century of commitment to empowerment and positive change.
The landmark event will be held by all the New York State Sections of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) on Saturday, May 18, 2024 from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Leonard's Palazzo, located at 555 Northern Blvd in Great Neck, NY 11021.
To purchase tickets, visit here.
Under the theme "Advancing Our Mission, Strengthening Our Message, Refining Our Method," this celebration serves as a beacon of unity, reflection, and inspiration. For five decades, the BHRP has stood at the forefront of community empowerment, advocating tirelessly for African American women and girls.
We are thrilled to announce Rev. Dr. Gwendolyn Elizabeth Boyd as our esteemed keynote speaker. A distinguished American scientist, mechanical engineer, civic leader, former Delta Sigma Theta, Inc. national president from 2000 to 2004 and former Alabama State University president, Rev. Dr. Boyd brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to this auspicious event. Her address promises to enlighten and inspire all who attend as a lifelong STEM advocate and community servant.
Leading the charge for this historic event are Johnnie M. Walker & Dawna M. Fields, National BHRP Co-Chairs, alongside Carol Moore, NYS BHRP Chair, and Gladys Keller & Evelyn Kinsey, NYS Luncheon Co-Chairs.
The Bethune-Height Recognition Program is the pinnacle of the year for the New York State National Council of Negro Women. Funds raised during this celebration will directly contribute to programs and services dedicated to advancing the well-being of African American women and girls.
For media inquiries and updates regarding the 50th Year Anniversary Celebration, please contact the Publicity Committee at ncnwnysbhrp2022@gmail.com
Further information can be found on our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/NCNWNYSBHRP.
Join us as we commemorate 50 years of unwavering commitment to positive change, social justice, and community empowerment. Save the date, May 18, 2024, for an event that promises to be a highlight of the year, celebrating our journey and looking forward to a future filled with promise.
About the Bethune/Height Recognition Program
The Bethune/Height Recognition Program (BHRP) was founded in 1974 and has grown into a great national movement. Its uniqueness comes from the annual opportunity it gives individuals to live the legacy of NCNW’s founder, Mrs. Mary McLeod Bethune by contributing to the work for which she dedicated her life. Proceeds from the Program help to undergird the vital work of the National Office by broadening and strengthening the financial base that is so crucial to NCNW's survival and its ability to affect much needed change. For more information, visit: https://ncnw.org/bhrp
Media Contact
Michelle Mitchell
+1 516-387-2227



OASC Welcomes Dr. José Luis Benavides as Guest Speaker for Member and Community Webinar on May 15
Our Authors Study Club, a company dedicated to making the world more aware, connected, and invested in the African American and African diaspora experience, is pleased to announce that Dr. José Luis Benavides, journalism professor and director of the Tom & Ethel Bradley Center at California State University Northridge, will be the guest speaker for the May Online Member and Community Webinar, taking place on Wednesday, May 15 from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. To RSVP, visit www.oascla.org/events.
Dr. José Luis Benavides brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in preserving the visual history of ethnic minority communities, aligning perfectly with OASC's mission to highlight the underrepresented heritage and legacy of Black Americans. By having Dr. Benavides as a guest speaker, OASC continues to ignite conversations and create opportunities for a deeper understanding of African and African American experiences.
As a company committed to recognizing, amplifying, and honoring the contributions of Black Americans, OASC's collaboration with Dr. José Luis Benavides underscores its dedication to promoting diverse voices and perspectives. By offering a platform for meaningful dialogue and scholarly insights, OASC enriches cultural understanding and promotes inclusivity.
At this event, attendees have the opportunity to learn first hand about the Tom & Ethel Bradley Center, the collection and how to use them in their research and programs or for self-curated exhibitions.
About the Bradley Center
The mission of the Tom & Ethel Bradley Center is to collect, preserve, and disseminate the visual history of the region with an emphasis on ethnic minority communities and photographers. The Bradley Center also promotes research, serves as a center for the exchange of ideas about our visual history, and contributes to the region’s educational efforts through our exhibitions, programs, and digital archives.
Established in 1991 in the Department of Journalism, California State University, Northridge by Dr. Kent Kirkton as the Center for Photojournalism & Visual History, the center was renamed the Institute for Arts & Media in 2008 as its mission and participation had broadened over the years. In 2015, the Institute for Arts & Media developed an ongoing relationship with the Tom & Ethel Bradley Foundation and was renamed the Tom & Ethel Bradley Center. (A sample of their current project Champions of Change, featuring 15 posters of social justice champions from all of our collections with QR Codes to the images and to the photographers who produced them, is shown in the image above.)
According to Lura Daniels-Ball, President of Our Authors Study Club, "We are thrilled to have Dr. José Luis Benavides join us for our upcoming webinar. His expertise in journalism and visual history aligns perfectly with our mission to celebrate and preserve and make accessible the heritage of African Americans and the African diaspora." This presentation continues to promote and explore another aspect of our national Black history theme African Americans and the Arts and the photographers who captured the Black experience as a lasting memory and tribute in color and black and white—in celebration and conflict, in sorrow and joy.
In the future, Our Authors Study Club plans to continue hosting engaging webinars, events, and initiatives that further promote Black history and culture. By fostering a community of learning, tangible experiences and dialogue, OASC aims to create lasting connections and inspire a deeper appreciation for African American contributions to the world.
Note: The member meeting will be from 6:00 to 6:30 p.m. and the guest speaker will begin at 6:30 p.m. For more information about Our Authors Study Club and the upcoming webinar with Dr. José Luis Benavides, please visit https://oascla.org/events or click here to RSVP directly.
Main website: https://www.csun.edu/bradley-center
Photographic collections: https://www.csun.edu/bradley-center/photography
Digital collections: https://digital-library.csun.edu/bradley-center-photographs/
Black Power archives: https://www.csun.edu/bradley-center/black-power-archives-oral-history-project
African Americans in Los Angeles, 1945–2000 (lesson plans): https://www.csun.edu/bradley-center/bradley-digital-history-project
About Our Authors Study Club
Located in Los Angeles, Our Authors Study Club is a community of dedicated individuals who are passionate about Black history: past, present, and future. Our mission is to promote awareness, connection, and investment in the African American and African diaspora experience by providing opportunities for everyone to engage with our history through culture, scholarship, technology, and research. We foster meaningful conversations around the African and African American experience that inspire new books, films, artistic expressions, music, podcasts, blogs, and social interactions across diverse communities.
OASC is committed to preserving our heritage and legacy, which has often been underrepresented in mainstream history, literature, and media. We strive to ensure that libraries, museums, schools, and media that participate in institutionalized bias do not ignore Black lives. We believe that Black history is not just a part of American history, but it is American history. We take pride in recognizing, amplifying, and honoring the contributions of Black Americans.
For more information, visit https://oascla.org. Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/OurAuthorsStudyClub.
Media Contact
Lura Ball



Copper Property CTL Pass Through Trust Issues Monthly Reporting Package for April 2024
Copper Property CTL Pass Through Trust (“the Trust”) has filed a Form 8-K containing its monthly report for the period ended April 30, 2024. An aggregate total distribution of $7.68 million or $0.102447 per trust certificate will be paid on May 10, 2024, to certificateholders of record as of May 9, 2024.
Additional information, including the Trust’s Monthly and Quarterly Reports, as well as other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) can be accessed via the Trust’s website at www.ctltrust.net.
About Copper Property CTL Pass Through Trust
Copper Property CTL Pass Through Trust (the “Trust”) was established to acquire 160 retail properties and 6 warehouse distribution centers (the “Properties”) from J.C. Penney as part of its Chapter 11 plan of reorganization. The Trust’s operations consist solely of owning, leasing and selling the Properties. The Trust’s objective is to sell the Properties to third-party purchasers as promptly as practicable. The Trustee of the trust is GLAS Trust Company LLC. The Trust is externally managed by an affiliate of Hilco Real Estate LLC. The Trust is intended to be treated, for tax purposes, as a liquidating trust within the meaning of United States Treasury Regulation Section 301.7701-4(d). For more information, please visit https://www.ctltrust.net/.
Forward Looking Statement
This news release contains certain “forward-looking statements”. All statements other than statements of historical fact are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may be identified by the use of forward looking terminology such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “might,” “our vision,” “plan,” “potential,” “preliminary,” “predict,” “should,” “will,” or “would” or the negative thereof or other variations thereof or comparable terminology and include, but are not limited to, the Trust’s expectations or beliefs concerning future events and stock price performance. The Trust has based these forward-looking statements on its current expectations, assumptions, estimates and projections. While the Trust believes these expectations, assumptions, estimates and projections are reasonable, such forward-looking statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond its control. These factors, including those discussed in the Trust’s Registration Statement on Form 10 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), may cause its actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. For a further list and description of such risks and uncertainties, please refer to the Trust’s filings with the SEC that are available at www.sec.gov. The Trust cautions you that the list of important factors included in the Trust’s SEC filings may not contain all of the material factors that are important to you. In addition, in light of these risks and uncertainties, the matters referred to in the forward-looking statements contained in this news release may not in fact occur. The Trust undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as otherwise required by law.
Media Contact
Jessica Cummins
+1 847-313-4755

Benchmark International Has Successfully Facilitated the Transaction Between Curie Environmental Services, LLC and Tradebe Environmental Services, LLC
Benchmark is pleased to announce the transaction between Curie Environmental Services, LLC and Tradebe Environmental Services, LLC. This move was driven by the vision of strategic expansion and the significant value that Curie Environmental Services, LLC brings.
Curie Environmental Services, LLC, a pioneer in recycling radioactive materials, operates a unique mail-back program for ionizing smoke alarms, exit signs, and other recyclable radioactive materials. Established in 2010, the company's collection facility in Albuquerque, NM, serves clients across all 50 US states and internationally.
Tradebe Environmental Services, LLC operates a network of facilities across the US, comprising multiple RCRA Part B TSDFs, a Type I Industrial Solid Waste Landfill, an oil recycling facility, and regional service centers strategically located throughout the country. Tradebe maintains a dedicated transportation fleet to meet its clients' diverse transport requirements.
With this acquisition, Tradebe's service portfolio expands its reach into radiological services and geographically expands its offerings to the western region. With these expanded capabilities, Tradebe gains substantial experience and technical expertise from the Curie team.
Curie's commitment to promoting recycling aligns with Tradebe's focus on sustainable waste management. As a global business dedicated to this cause, Tradebe prioritizes the greenest solutions possible, strongly emphasizing recycling and recovery. The company successfully recycles 60% of the waste stream it processes.
“Curie’s services are niche and required a buyer which had the organizational alignment and depth to integrate the radioactive management services into their own industry offerings. It was not a quick sale, but the Benchmark team never tired. Their excellent marketing brought ten offers, and the match with Tradebe was the winner.” —Christie Logan, Curie Environmental Services, LLC
"This deal was the prime example of a seller finding their perfect buyer. The strategic and cultural fit between both parties was unmatched. Both the buyer and seller were a pleasure to work with throughout the process, and we wish them nothing but the best moving forward." —Haden Buckman, Transaction Associate, Benchmark International
Americas: Sam Smoot at +1 (813) 898 2350 / Smoot@BenchmarkIntl.com
Europe: Michael Lawrie at +44 (0) 161 359 4400 / Lawrie@BenchmarkIntl.com
Africa: Anthony McCardle at +27 21 300 2055 / McCardle@BenchmarkIntl.com
About Benchmark International
Benchmark International is a global M&A firm that provides business owners with creative, value-maximizing solutions for growing and exiting their businesses. Benchmark International has handled over $11 billion in transaction value across various industries from offices across the world. With decades of M&A experience, Benchmark International’s transaction teams have assisted business owners with achieving their objectives and ensuring the continued growth of their businesses. The firm has also been named the Investment Banking Firm of the Year by The M&A Advisor and the Global M&A Network as well as the #1 Sell-side Exclusive Privately-held M&A Advisor in the World by Pitchbook and Refinitiv's Global League Tables.
Media Contact
Brittney Zoeller
+1 813-898-2350



Benchmark International Has Successfully Facilitated the Transaction Between QuadMed, Inc. and Bound Tree Medical, LLC
Benchmark International has successfully facilitated the transaction between Jacksonville, FL-based QuadMed, Inc., a trusted distributor of emergency medical supplies and equipment for over 30 years, and Dublin, OH-based Bound Tree Medical. QuadMed supplies its products to emergency medical service (EMS) agencies, fire departments, law enforcement, military units, and other medical professionals, establishing a strong reputation in the industry.
QuadMed's products, including airway management, breathing and oxygen, diagnostics, patient monitoring, first aid, immobilization and patient handling, infection control, medical kits, and training equipment, are a testament to their commitment to providing top-notch products. The company's on-staff sales force, new and innovative products, competitive pricing, and ongoing customer support after a sale further demonstrate their dedication to customer satisfaction.
Bound Tree Medical, LLC is a subsidiary of Sarnova, Inc., stands as a distinguished distributor specializing in the provision of prehospital emergency medical supplies, equipment, and pharmaceuticals tailored to meet the needs of EMS providers, comprising First Responders, EMTs, and Paramedics. With a commitment to excellence and innovation, Bound Tree diligently serves the healthcare community by offering a comprehensive range of products for efficient emergency response and patient care.
"After decades of building a formidable regional position in the medical products distribution space, the QuadMed leadership team has found a great home for its company with Bound Tree. This combination will be a powerful force in the industry, and we strongly believe that the acquiring team will respect and continue to grow the legacy that QuadMed founders Lisa and Marley Price have built." —William Sullivan, Senior Transaction Director, Benchmark International
Americas: Sam Smoot at +1 (813) 898 2350 / Smoot@BenchmarkIntl.com
Europe: Michael Lawrie at +44 (0) 161 359 4400 / Lawrie@BenchmarkIntl.com
Africa: Anthony McCardle at +27 21 300 2055 / McCardle@BenchmarkIntl.com
About Benchmark International
Benchmark International is a global M&A firm that provides business owners with creative, value-maximizing solutions for growing and exiting their businesses. Benchmark International has handled over $11 billion in transaction value across various industries from offices across the world. With decades of M&A experience, Benchmark International’s transaction teams have assisted business owners with achieving their objectives and ensuring the continued growth of their businesses. The firm has also been named the Investment Banking Firm of the Year by The M&A Advisor and the Global M&A Network as well as the #1 Sell-side Exclusive Privately-held M&A Advisor in the World by Pitchbook and Refinitiv's Global League Tables.
Media Contact
Brittney Zoeller
+1 813-898-2350



Botanic Tonics Announces Support for the Global Kratom Coalition and Advocates for Safe, Regulated Kratom Industry
Botanic Tonics, a leading manufacturer of kava and leaf kratom products, proudly announces its support for the Global Kratom Coalition and its efforts to establish a safe, regulated kratom industry. With an estimated 15 million kratom consumers in the U.S., Botanic Tonics recognizes the importance of implementing sensible regulations to ensure consumer safety and product quality.
The kratom industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by increasing consumer demand and awareness of the plant’s potential benefits. However, the lack of proper regulatory oversight has allowed irresponsible practices by some companies to tarnish the reputation of the entire sector. Botanic Tonics firmly believes that regulatory oversight and quality control measures are essential to safeguard consumer welfare and maintain public trust in kratom as a legitimate herbal supplement.
"Botanic Tonics is committed to advocating for common-sense regulations at both state and national levels," said Cameron Korehbandi, CEO and President of Botanic Tonics. "We actively support the recently introduced California Kratom Consumer Protection Act (KCPA) and the recent amendments to the KCPA in Oklahoma, which aim to establish comprehensive regulations governing the production, labeling, and distribution of kratom products."
Botanic Tonics applauds the FDA’s recent efforts to undertake clinical research on kratom, including the leaf kratom Single Ascending Dose (SAD) study and the upcoming Human Abuse Potential (HAP) research. These studies will provide critical insights into kratom’s safety profile, pharmacokinetics, and abuse liability, informing regulatory decisions and promoting a fact-based approach to kratom regulation.
In addition to advocating for robust regulations, Botanic Tonics supports the Global Kratom Coalition’s aim to uphold transparency, education, and responsible practices within the kratom industry. The Global Kratom Coalition will also actively collaborate with legislators, industry stakeholders, and advocacy groups to promote consumer protection measures and foster accountability among processors and vendors.
"By prioritizing consumer safety and collaborating with the Global Kratom Coalition, we aim to ensure the long-term viability and credibility of the kratom industry," added Korehbandi. "Through responsible practices and robust regulations, we can continue to provide consumers with access to safe and beneficial kratom products while contributing to the sustainable growth of the market."
Botanic Tonics remains committed to working alongside the Global Kratom Coalition, regulatory authorities, and industry partners to establish a safe, regulated kratom industry that benefits both consumers and responsible businesses.
About Botanic Tonics
Botanic Tonics is a plant-based herbal supplement company headquartered in Broken Arrow, OK. Established in 2020, it produces kava-forward tonics and capsules under its 'feel free' brand. Its two product lines, 'feel free CLASSIC' and 'feel free' are crafted with ancient functional plants to provide mood lift, energy, and focus. Botanic Tonics’ products are manufactured in an FDA-registered, cGMP-certified facility, and the company actively supports consumer safety regulations through transparent labeling and educational resources. Learn more at https://botanictonics.com.
Media Contact

Enkrypt AI Unveils LLM Safety Leaderboard to Enable Enterprises to Adopt Generative AI Safely and Responsibly
The rapid adoption of Generative AI, including in regulated settings, has continued to make the security and safety of Large Language Models (LLMs) a key concern amongst cybersecurity professionals. Policy-makers and security professionals around the world continue to seek new technology to help mitigate the risks of Generative AI technologies. For example; just days ago, the US Government’s Department of Homeland Security appointed a board to advise on the role of artificial intelligence on critical infrastructure.
Sahil Agarwal, CEO of Enkrypt AI commented: “LLMs are increasingly seen as potential back-office powerhouses for enterprises, processing data and enabling faster front-office decision-making. Consider a fintech where an LLM-powered application is key in rejecting a loan application from a person of color without clear explanation. This raises concerns about implicit biases, as LLMs often reflect societal inequities present in their training data sourced from the internet. Moreover, cases like Google’s LLM appearing ‘woke’ highlight the risks of overcorrecting these biases. How safe is Anthropic’s Claude3 Model? Is Cohere’s Command R+ LLM really ready for enterprise use? These scenarios underscore the urgent need for careful checks on these models to prevent exacerbating societal inequities and causing harm.”
At the highly anticipated RSA conference, Enkrypt AI, the leader in securing Generative AI technologies, will introduce its latest innovation, the LLM Safety Leaderboard. This product is part of Enkrypt AI’s comprehensive Sentry suite, designed to empower enterprises to deploy LLMs with heightened security and peace of mind.
The LLM Safety Leaderboard will provide essential insights into the vulnerabilities and hallucination risks of various LLMs, enabling technology teams to make informed decisions about which models best suit their specific needs. This tool aims to educate and raise awareness about the relative strengths and potential weaknesses of different LLMs, so AI engineers can make informed decisions about the unique strengths of each.
Highlights of the LLM Safety Leaderboard include: Comprehensive Vulnerability Insights which delivers detailed evaluations of potential security risks, including data leakage, privacy breaches, and susceptibility to cyber-attacks. Ethical and Compliance Risk Assessment which tests for biases, toxicity, and compliance with ethical standards and regulatory requirements, ensuring models align with enterprise and brand values.
The LLM Safety Leaderboard is a new component of Enkrypt’s Sentry suite, which includes Sentry Red Team, Sentry Guardrails, and Sentry Compliance. This suite offers a holistic approach to managing and securing LLMs, aligning with the strictest standards for privacy, security, and compliance within the enterprise environment.
The announcement comes as a new preprint paper by Enkrypt AI, “Increased LLM Vulnerabilities from Fine-tuning and Quantization”, has found that common practices used to implement LLMs in business settings, namely fine-tuning and quantization, lead to increased risk of security vulnerabilities namely from jailbreaking. However, implementing external guardrails platforms like Enkrypt’s Sentry Guardrails solution was successful in mitigating such vulnerabilities. On one model, Enkrypt’s Sentry Guardrails provided a 9x reduction in vulnerability to jailbreaking attacks.
Sahil Agarwal, CEO of Enkrypt AI, said: “With the launch of the LLM Safety Leaderboard, we are enhancing our commitment to enabling the safe, secure, and responsible use of generative AI in the enterprise. This tool will serve as a critical resource for organizations aiming to navigate the complexities of AI implementation with full confidence in their security posture.”
Prashanth Harshangi, CTO of Enkrypt AI, added: “In the last two quarters, our team has been solely focused on generative AI safety and making rapid progress with our Sentry Suite. Comprising three key components – Sentry Red Team, Sentry Guardrails, and Sentry Compliance. With the LLM Safety Leaderboard, we are proud to offer a product that not only identifies potential risks but also empowers businesses to proactively manage and mitigate these challenges, enabling informed and faster decision making.”
About Enkrypt AI
Enkrypt AI, co-founded by Yale PhDs Sahil Agarwal and Prashanth Harshangi, is pioneering the safe adoption of Generative AI within enterprises. With an innovative all-in-one platform, Enkrypt AI is revolutionizing how Large Language Models (LLMs) are integrated and managed, addressing critical needs for reliability, security, data privacy, and compliance in a unified solution.
Used by mid to large-sized enterprises in industries including finance and life sciences, Enkrypt AI's Sentry offers a proactive approach to AI security, fostering trust and efficiency in AI implementations from chatbots to automated reporting. Enkrypt AI sits between users and AI models, to offer a variety of safety and security layers.
Enkrypt AI stands apart by merging threat detection, privacy, and compliance into a comprehensive toolkit, poised to become the definitive Enterprise Generative AI platform for an evolving regulatory landscape. For more information please visit https://www.enkryptai.com/ or follow via LinkedIn, X, Instagram or YouTube.
Media Contact
Bilal Mahmood
+44 7714 007257



The Wright Scoop Launches Art Exhibit: "Redemption defined by biblical women"
Glen Allen-based The Wright Scoop – Sylvia Hoehns Wright launches art exhibit, "Redemption defined by biblical women." Displayed May 4 through May 12, an exhibit opening will be hosted on Thursday, May 9 at 6 p.m. at Monument Heights Baptist Church (MHBC) located at 5716 Monument Avenue in Richmond, Virginia.
Why should you attend? Stories portrayed through Wright’s art, do not simply represent Christianity but all Abrahamic religions: Christianity, Judaism and Islam, as well as those of other cultures and or religions.
Based on research provided by the Women of Faith Study Bible and influenced by a Christian-based program GriefShare, Wright’s art identifies redemption to occur when we lean on spiritual assistance and then sow seeds of life renewal:
- Faith: Hebrews 11:1
- Confidence: 2 Corinthians 3:4-5
- Courage: Isaiah 41:10,
- Memories: Philippians 1:3
- Love: Romans 8:37-39
- Hope: Psalm 71:14
Resulting in a form of redemption, defined by featured biblical women: ‘Strength and honor are her clothing; she is confident about the future.' —Proverbs 31:25
In her memoir style book, "Eco-legacy – a millennium woman’s heritage," Wright shares stories of her childhood as well as present-day lifestyle at Hoehns Lakeview Farms located in Henrico County, Virginia. She credits the legacy of a rural Virginia childhood and Quaker lifestyle belief—view self as caretaker, not owner of property—as the source of her value system and commitment to community.
About The Wright Scoop – Sylvia Hoehns Wright
As a child of the ‘tell-instead-of-read-me-a story’ era, Wright urges all to identify, record, and ensure the legacies of their heritage, both community and spiritual. To purchase copies of her books, visit www.lulu.com/spotlight/syhwright. For more information about an exhibit and/or workshop, contact sylvia@thewrightscoop.com. For details of her other activities, visit www.thewrightscoop.com.
Media Contact
Sylvia Wright



Benchmark International Has Successfully Facilitated the Transaction of Latrobe Foundry Machine & Supply Co. to Genesys Industries
Latrobe Foundry Machine & Supply Co. was founded in 1933 by Louis C. Steiner and is a leading manufacturer of high-quality threaded and flanged aluminum pipe fittings and hardware. Latrobe Foundry Machine & Supply Co. is a multi-location manufacturer with an established product line in various businesses, including aerospace, agricultural, chemical, construction, and marine industries.
The company's products are distributed by some of the largest suppliers in the industry, such as McMaster Carr, MSC Industrial, Ferguson, and many more regional suppliers. Latrobe Foundry has a rich manufacturing history. Ted Steiner, President, and Sally Shirey, Vice President, are the grandchildren of Louis C. Steiner, and Michael Steiner, Vice President, is the great-grandson of the founder, Louis C. Steiner.
President and Officer of Latrobe Foundry Machine & Supply Co., Ted Steiner, emphasized, "Latrobe Foundry and Genesys share not only common markets and hardware product lines but also deep-rooted manufacturing expertise and values. This alignment will enable us to offer a more comprehensive range of products and elevate our customer service levels. The team at Benchmark International played a crucial role in guiding us towards a successful sale."
Genesys Industries' spokesperson expressed, "We are thrilled about the acquisition. This strategic move further expands our already growing presence in manufacturing mechanical hardware components for the industry. It seamlessly integrates with our expanding parts catalog of over 124,000 unique SKUs (part numbers). With this acquisition, we gain an additional 13,000 sqft facility in Pennsylvania, enhancing our operational capabilities."
"Both buyer and seller were great to work with, and I feel confident that their respective clients will benefit greatly from this acquisition," —Matthew Kekelis, Senior Director, Benchmark International
Americas: Sam Smoot at +1 (813) 898 2350 / Smoot@BenchmarkIntl.com
Europe: Michael Lawrie at +44 (0) 161 359 4400 / Lawrie@BenchmarkIntl.com
Africa: Anthony McCardle at +27 21 300 2055 / McCardle@BenchmarkIntl.com
About Benchmark International
Benchmark International is a global M&A firm that provides business owners with creative, value-maximizing solutions for growing and exiting their businesses. Benchmark International has handled over $11 billion in transaction value across various industries from offices across the world. With decades of M&A experience, Benchmark International’s transaction teams have assisted business owners with achieving their objectives and ensuring the continued growth of their businesses. The firm has also been named the Investment Banking Firm of the Year by The M&A Advisor and the Global M&A Network as well as the #1 Sell-side Exclusive Privately-held M&A Advisor in the World by Pitchbook and Refinitiv's Global League Tables.
Media Contact
Brittney Zoeller
+1 813-898-2350



Investments & Wealth Institute Names Courtney Schubert as Managing Director of Marketing and Membership; Sandi Garcia as Managing Director of Finance
The Investments & Wealth Institute (the Institute), the leading membership organization and credentialing body for financial advisors and wealth management professionals, has announced two new hires. Courtney Schubert joins the Institute as Managing Director of Marketing and Membership and Sandi Gracia joins as Managing Director of Finance. Both will provide strategic direction and drive operational best practices for their respective departments.
“We heartily welcome both Courtney and Sandi as new leaders to help enhance awareness and drive growth for the Institute,” said Sean Walters, CAE®, Chief Executive Officer of the Institute. “Each brings valuable commercial acumen to their respective roles. Both of their talents will solidify the Institute's ability to deliver on our mission, helping our members elevate their practices to consistently generate better client outcomes.”
Schubert brings with her over 15 years of experience and expertise in financial services marketing, having held senior roles at The American College of Financial Services, Envestnet, Nitrogen (formerly Riskalyze), and SmartKx. She has an undergraduate degree in web management and internet commerce from Johnson & Wales University and a master’s degree in digital marketing from The London School of Business and Finance. In her new role, Schubert will be responsible for fostering synergy between the Institute’s marketing and membership functions to enhance the value of services provided to existing members, in addition to her focus on attracting new members. She is based in Philadelphia, PA, and reports to John Whitham, Chief Operating Officer of the Institute.
“I am excited to contribute to an organization that stands as a paragon of educational excellence for investment and wealth management professionals,” Schubert said. “I look forward to collaborating with both internal colleagues and our network of volunteers to ensure the value of Institute membership is recognized and leveraged by both our members and the financial advice community at-large.”
Garcia was most recently with the Financial Planning Association (FPA), where she was Chief Financial Officer (CFO). During her time at FPA, she oversaw several key areas of the company including Technology, Human Resources and Strategic Partnerships. Garcia has a variety of for-profit and non-profit experience, including CFO roles at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science and the Community College of Denver. She began her career at Arthur Andersen LLP and was focused primarily on financial and business system integration in the Business Consulting Division. Garcia is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) licensed in Colorado, and she holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Colorado in Boulder with a dual emphasis in both accounting and information systems. She is based in Denver, CO, and reports to Angie Lutterman, CFO of the Institute, who is slated to retire on July 1 of this year after 14 years of service to the organization.
At that time, Garcia is expected to assume the role of CFO, as part of the Institute’s succession planning efforts. “Angie possesses a wealth of historical knowledge and financial expertise, and I am so grateful for her leadership during this transitional phase, which will help me ramp up quickly to understand the financial operations of this important, highly respected organization,” Garcia said. “I am also honored to be entrusted with serving as the new CFO of the Institute and ensuring that it continues to be fiscally resilient and responsible, now as well as into its promising future.”
About the Investments & Wealth Institute
Founded in 1985, the Investments & Wealth Institute is the premier professional association, education provider, and standards body for financial advisors. Through its award-winning events, publications, courses, and acclaimed certifications — Certified Investment Management Analyst® (CIMA®), Certified Private Wealth Advisor® (CPWA®), and Retirement Management Advisor® (RMA®) — the Institute delivers Ivy league-quality, highly practical education to more than 30,000 practitioners annually in over 40 countries. Members of the Institute include the industry's most successful investment consultants, advanced financial planners, and private wealth managers who embrace excellence and ethics in applying a broad set of knowledge and skills in their daily work with clients.
Media Contact
Allison Edmondson
+1 303-850-3207



Safe Grabs Launches Kitchenware Sports Line; Offers Memorial Day Special for South Carolina Readers
Safe Grabs, the original multipurpose silicone kitchen mat, today announced a promotion exclusively for Lowcountry readers to coincide with the launch of a new sports product line. The company is known for being featured on ABC's Shark Tank and securing investment from Lori Greiner in 2020, with viewers later voting it Shark Tank's "Pitch of the Week" for its durability, versatility, and price.
Made from 100% silicone, Safe Grabs is BPA-free and safe to use in your microwave and anywhere in your home. Specially designed with a circular shape, Safe Grabs fits perfectly on your microwave turntable and allows you to safely grab hot dishes without burning your fingers. Its patented raised circular ridges evenly distribute heat that is absorbed by the silicone to create a barrier that prevents burns. This multi-purpose kitchen tool also serves as a placemat, splash guard, trivet, jar opener, food cover, and much more!
The company is now launching a limited edition set of football, basketball and baseball sports mats, and available for custom orders that can be personalized for teams and schools with team branding.
Safe Grabs is offering a special 30% Memorial Day discount exclusively for Lowcountry readers. Use discount code PAC30 at checkout.
For more information on Safe Grabs and their new sports line, please visit https://safegrabs.com.
About Safe Grabs
Shark Tank success story based in Austin, TX, Safe Grabs is a kitchenware brand that specializes in creating versatile silicone mats that cater to the needs of modern homes. Our flagship product is designed to handle the heat so that you can effortlessly grab your microwaved food without reaching for a towel or gloves. It's a testament to our promise of delivering hassle-free kitchenware that simplifies your life. For more information, please visit our website safegrabs.com.
Media Contact
Cyndi Lee
+1 213-205-2555




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