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Big Apple Set to Outshine Silicon Valley at The AI Hot 100 Conference
Every AI founder today is wondering if they should be moving to San Francisco. A year ago, Hamza Zaveri and Angela Mascarenas were thinking the same thing as they embarked on their journeys as AI founders living in New York City and London. Pretty soon they realized there was a lack of a supportive ecosystem for AI outside of San Francisco, but they didn't want to move out of their cities. They took matters into their own hands and started bringing AI founders and developers together locally. Under The AI Furnace, they grew to over 15,000 members globally in 6 cities.
From Underground Community to a Global Movement, with The AI Hot 100 Conference
They are now funneling this movement of supporting local AI startups into The AI Hot 100 Conference on September 18 in NYC. The conference is bringing together 100 of the hottest funded AI startups from pre-seed to Series A on the East Coast, which they have curated as part of their AI Hot 100 Market Map. There will be 400+ attendees including top VCs, founders, operators, executives and researchers.
For the first time, The AI Hot 100 Conference will unite top AI startup talent from the East Coast, alongside leaders from government, venture capital, and big tech, including the New York State Economic Development Council, Andreessen Horowitz, Flybridge Capital, Gradient Ventures, Anthropic, and more. The event will showcase groundbreaking innovations and offer attendees a chance to connect with the who’s who of early stage AI. Expect to see breakthrough demos from the AI Hot 100 founders, giving an exclusive glimpse into the future.
What’s in Store
You’ll get front-row access to 100 AI startups such as Maven AGI, Arcee AI, Metaphysic, and more which have raised a cumulative $150 million. Also, connect with over 30+ top VC funds with over $65 billion AUM in dry powder. Expect engaging talks and demos on everything from AI agents to AI-generated anime and AI-fashion models. Plus, there’s a mixer for founders and funders, plenty of chances to network over breakfast and lunch, and even a chance to connect with founders who are hiring. And don’t miss the afterparty to chill and unwind!
Sponsors include NVIDIA, NEAR Foundation, Fidelity, Rho, and Metronome.
You can buy tickets and find out more at https://aifurnace.com.
What does the future hold for The AI Furnace?
Angela Mascarenas and Hamza Zaveri aim to support local and regional AI talent around the world. They plan to curate the AI Hot 100 List for different regions and take The AI Hot 100 Conference globally to support local AI innovation. The New York City edition is just the beginning.
About The AI Furnace
The AI Furnace is a global network of 15,000+ AI founders, researchers and investors. We host IRL events in NYC, London, Boston and Paris. Built by AI founders to educate the world, we showcase the latest innovations and founders in AI through our digital media channels, newsletter, podcasts, videos and world-class events. Our founders have gone on to raise from the likes of a16z, Sequoia, Village Global, Google Ventures, and more.



Spynn Publicity Introduces Advanced PR Solutions to Help Startups Gain Visibility
Spynn Publicity, one of the top PR firms for startups, has launched new PR services designed to increase startup visibility. The company focuses on helping early-stage businesses connect with their audiences and build brand credibility through targeted media strategies.
PR for startups is essential to make sure they stand out and grow. Spynn Publicity’s new offerings include customized media placements and digital PR strategies to build trust and recognition. "Our goal is to create campaigns that genuinely connect with the right people," says Matteo Ferretti, CEO of Spynn Publicity.
As the global PR industry is expected to grow to $144.28 billion by 2028, the firm’s services are well-timed to help startups benefit from this expanding field. Using data and analytics, the company designs PR campaigns that align with client goals and deliver measurable results.
Spynn Publicity offers services like media content creation and securing placements in leading publications. These efforts help startups communicate their value effectively. "Journalists want stories that matter, and we help startups present their work in a way that gets noticed," says Ferretti.
The agency’s partnerships with major media outlets guarantee coverage for startups, helping them stand out in a crowded field. "We’re rethinking how startups look at public relations," Ferretti adds. "Our focus on PR for startups is to give them the visibility and trust they need to succeed."
For more details on Spynn Publicity’s services, visit https://spynn.co/.
About Spynn Publicity
Spynn Publicity is a public relations firm that specializes in media placements and digital PR services. Led by former journalist and CEO Matteo Ferretti, the company has helped businesses across industries achieve visibility and growth through modern PR strategies.



Push Cash Brings a New Era of Payments
Today, Push Cash is launching instant, guaranteed payments for merchants and fintech platforms. Founded by former product leaders at Plaid, the company uses a first of its kind multi-network processing approach to realize higher payment authorization rates at better economics. While in stealth, Push Cash secured multiple enterprise customers in online sports betting, and will soon be available in additional verticals.
U.S. payments are stuck in the 1900s: Debit and credit card processing is expensive and rife with chargebacks. In an effort to minimize card processing costs, there has been a recent push by fintechs toward “bank transfers” (read: ACH). However, given ACH’s batch processing and lack of risk signal, bank transfers are slow and can sometimes indirectly cost more than debit card processing. Fintech innovation to date has focused on improving ACH or credit card processing, as opposed to trying to make payments faster and safer for consumers and merchants.
Push Cash has taken a new approach to payment processing. Instead of trying to optimize the performance of debit card processing or ACH processing, it optimizes overall payment processing by routing transactions to the payment network best positioned to minimize risk and maximize performance. This approach reduces merchants' payment costs by eliminating chargebacks and increases merchants’ top line by approving more good transactions.
Eric Morse and Andrew Coover met at Plaid, where Eric founded the money movement team, creating the ACH processor Transfer and the ML-based risk tool Signal. Andrew led the transfer product's development. Before Plaid, Eric held various leadership roles at Visa, including developing their card-on-file token product.
Morse describes, “With Push, we wanted to start from a clean sheet of paper—could we actually speed up payments while also reducing risk? What if we combined push-style payments and strong customer authentication with a multi-network processing strategy?” This insight led to Push Cash, designed to eliminate the trade-offs between cost, risk, and performance in today's processing systems.
In addition to its launch, Push Cash also announced $4M in seed funding, led by Foundation Capital with participation from angels of Affirm, Bleacher Report, PayPal, Uber, SeatGeek. The raise supports building product and hiring the engineering and operations team.
“The multi-network approach that Push Cash has pioneered is quite novel and really moves the needle on payment performance for merchants. Those are rare commodities in the payments space these days,” said Zach Noorani, partner at Foundation Capital.
About Push Cash
Push Cash is on a mission to reduce transaction risk and take a merchant’s payments costs close to zero. With Push Cash, you can’t push money you don’t have, you can’t push money from a closed account, and you have to authenticate to Push. Push Cash will make account-to-account transactions instant, safe, and simple for consumers and merchants. For more information, visit https://www.pushcash.com.

Botanic Tonics Responds to Bloomberg Documentary: Emphasizing Kratom Safety, Education, and Responsible Industry Practices
Botanic Tonics, maker of feel free, appreciates Bloomberg's examination of the complex issues surrounding kratom use and regulation in the U.S. As a company committed to consumer safety and transparency, we feel it is important to provide additional context on several key points:
1. Leaf kratom vs. extracts/synthetics: There is a critical distinction between natural leaf kratom, which has been safely used for centuries, and concentrated extracts or synthetic compounds. Our feel free CLASSIC product uses only natural leaf kratom, not potent extracts or isolates that pose greater risks.
2. Dangers of 7-hydroxymitragynine (7OH): We share concerns about highly concentrated 7OH products flooding the market. Our products do not artificially boost 7OH levels, which can only be accomplished through chemical manipulation or adulteration. We strongly oppose the sale of isolated 7OH products.
3. Need for regulation: We actively support and advocate for appropriate regulation of kratom products to ensure consumer safety. This includes backing initiatives like the Kratom Consumer Protection Act and supporting the FDA's clinical research efforts.
4. Consumer education: We have significantly expanded our consumer education efforts, including comprehensive information on our website about ingredients, potential risks, and responsible use guidelines.
5. Voluntary responsibility measures: We have implemented numerous voluntary measures to promote responsible use, including:
- Enhanced product labeling with detailed ingredient information and clear warnings
- Adding visible serving size indicators on bottles
- Raising our minimum purchase age to 21+
- Conducting clinical trials on our products to better understand their effects
6. Commitment to safety: All our products are manufactured in an FDA-registered, cGMP-certified facility with rigorous quality control and safety testing protocols. Not all kava and kratom are created equal. Botanic Tonics goes to extraordinary lengths to ensure the highest quality and safety standards for its customers:
- cGMP certified: Our facility adheres to Current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) regulations enforced by the FDA. This certification ensures consistent quality in production processes and facilities.
- Rigorous testing: Every batch undergoes comprehensive in-house testing in our ISO/IEC 17025 accredited lab for purity, potency, and contaminants.
- Sustainable sourcing: We partner directly with farmers to ensure ethical and sustainable harvesting practices.
- Cutting-edge processing: Our state-of-the-art equipment preserves the natural properties of kava and kratom while eliminating impurities.
- Transparency: We provide a finished goods COA (Certificate of Analysis) that gives the specification results for bottles, lids, microbial, iron, heavy metals, pesticides and active materials.
We acknowledge that while our early marketing practices met or exceeded all requirements at the time, we now realize that those rules and best practices were not sufficient. As a result, we have taken the lead in guiding the industry towards more transparent and consumer-focused efforts to drive education and awareness.
We have worked diligently to improve transparency and prioritize consumer safety. While kratom has helped many people, we recognize it is not appropriate for everyone and can be habit-forming if misused.
We remain committed to ongoing research, education, and collaboration with regulators to ensure the safest possible market for kratom products.
Disclaimer: Consume responsibly. Adults 21 years of age and older only.
About Botanic Tonics
Botanic Tonics is a plant-based herbal supplement company headquartered in Broken Arrow, OK. Established in 2020, we produce kava-forward tonics under our feel free brand. Our signature product, feel free CLASSIC, is 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 actively supports consumer safety regulations through transparent labeling and educational resources. Learn more at https://botanictonics.com.



Chalice Custom Algorithms Welcomes Michael Riley as New Head of Sales
Chalice Custom Algorithms, a leader in custom AI ad tech, is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Riley as the company's new EVP, Head of Sales.
Michael brings a wealth of experience from his successful career at Nativo Inc, where he started as an account director and rose to Head of Sales through 7 promotions over 9 years. Michael's tenure at Nativo played an instrumental role in driving Nativo’s growth through consultative selling and innovative market strategies.
As Chalice continues to expand its offerings, including AI Audiences and CurateAI, Michael will lead the sales team in driving new business and building deeper relationships with brand and agency partners. His background in adapting products to meet the needs of the ever-evolving advertising landscape aligns perfectly with Chalice's pivot from custom bidding algorithms to a suite of custom AI powered products.
Ali Manning, COO of Chalice Custom Algorithms, expressed her excitement about Mike’s arrival: "We are thrilled to have Mike joining to lead us through the next phase of growth at Chalice. Mike comes at a pivotal time as Chalice introduces new products that package our custom AI capabilities into seamless audience and curation solutions across CTV, programmatic, and social platforms. His expertise in consultative selling and custom products will enable Chalice to scale our new go-to-market quickly, while always keeping the customer first."
Michael added: "Advertising is at its best when there is a perfect balance of some of the most advanced tech and most creative humans. Adam, Ali, and Joe have found that perfect balance, all in the midst of one of the most transformative periods in AdTech. I am excited to lead sales and bring my prior experience adapting products to best fit brands and agencies' needs as they look for better effective reach and more transparency."
Mike’s addition to Chalice Custom Algorithms marks a significant step in the company’s journey toward shaping the future of AI-driven advertising.
About Chalice Custom Algorithms
Chalice Custom Algorithms is the leading custom AI software in advertising technology. Chalice AI’s products are configured to make advertising directly impact the business outcomes that matter to advertisers, using the most advanced applications of generative and predictive AI. To learn more, visit www.chalice.ai.



New Open Systems Report Reveals 71% of Organizations to Increase IT Budgets in 2025
Open Systems, the leading provider of native, managed SASE solutions, today announced the results of its 2025 IT Infrastructure Report. According to the report, many U.S. organizations expect to spend more on networking and security in 2025, particularly on SASE-related expenses.
Open Systems commissioned Osterman Research to survey 200 IT leaders in the U.S. about their priorities, challenges, and budgets related to SASE and network transformation. The report’s findings highlighted a trend toward increased IT spending and a growing preference to outsource SASE management to a third party.
Key Findings
Organizations are moving toward SASE, despite the implementation barriers that many face such as infrastructure problems and lack of skilled staff. What’s more, many organizations are allocating extra budget to address these barriers. For example, nearly two-thirds of IT leaders who cited infrastructure problems as a barrier to SASE implementation reported that their IT budget will significantly increase in the next 12 months.
Managing SASE internally is more expensive. 43% of organizations currently managing SASE internally expect to significantly increase their budgets over the next 12 months. By comparison, only 31% of those managing SASE externally are planning a significant budget increase. Keeping up to date with new equipment and finding new staff members to manage the deployment often equates to a big price tag.
Organizations increasingly want to outsource SASE management to external providers. Seventy percent of organizations already rely on an external provider to manage their SASE deployment and that figure increases to 73% three years from now. Additionally, more than 70% of organizations managing SASE internally see complexity, limited budget, and a lack of expertise as their main challenges to SASE implementation.
“Despite challenging economic times, organizations see the value of investing in IT needs, especially networking and security,” said Stefan Keller, Chief Product Officer, Open Systems. “Our research shows that while many companies face challenges in implementing SASE, they are still moving forward with SASE adoption and are dedicating resources to ensure a successful implementation. It’s gratifying to see that many organizations understand the benefits of outsourcing SASE management to a third party like Open Systems.”
The report also explored what IT leaders look for in a SASE service or solution and respondents cited 24/7 customer support from experts, technical integrations, service agility, and having a single-vendor SASE solution as equally important factors. Interestingly, having a single-vendor SASE solution was less important to those who manage SASE internally than it is to those who outsource SASE management.
For further analysis of the survey findings and to download the full report, visit https://go.open-systems.com/LP-ITIndustrySurvey-US.html.
About Open Systems
Open Systems is a leading provider of native, managed SASE solutions that enable organizations to simply connect and secure hybrid environments to meet their business goals. Backed by our Service Experience Promise, Open Systems’ SASE Experience helps reduce risk, improve efficiency, and accelerate innovation with a comprehensive, easy-to-implement, and use combination of SD-WAN and Security Service Edge delivered as a service with a superior user experience. SASE Experience combines SD-WAN, firewall, SWG, CASB, and ZTNA into a framework that supports secure connectivity across cloud and hybrid environments and locations. It provides a comprehensive SASE solution through an easy-to-use customer portal, underpinned with a unified data platform to drive future innovation, all delivered as a 24×7 managed service.
To learn more about Open Systems, visit www.open-systems.com.

Indonesia Regulates Kratom Exports to Increase Value and Prevent Abuse
The Indonesian government has officially recognized kratom as an export commodity and issued new regulations to control its exports. The regulations, Permendag No. 20/2024 and Permendag No. 21/2024, outline the types and sizes of kratom that are prohibited and allowed for export.
According to the Director General of Foreign Trade of the Ministry of Trade, Isy Karim, the new regulations aim to regulate the export standards of kratom to ensure the quality and safety of the product. This is in response to reports of Indonesian kratom being detained abroad due to quality issues.
The regulations prohibit the export of kratom leaves and coarse crumbs but allow the export of finely crumbled kratom in powder form. This ensures that the exported kratom meets the quality standards of the destination countries.
The government also hopes that by regulating the export of kratom, the price and added value of the commodity can be increased for Indonesia. The regulations require exporters to register for export permits and have their export allocations regulated in quantity.
"With the management of kratom export in Indonesia, the Indonesian government can offer the importing country the pre-export notification (PEN) mechanism. Through this PEN, importing countries can give import permits to importers to minimize the abuse of kratom," said Isy Karim.
Matthew Lowe, Executive Director of the Global Kratom Coalition, noted the Indonesian government's move, stating, "Generally speaking, setting regulations in Indonesia seems to be a positive step towards ensuring the quality and safety of kratom exports. We are learning more and working to understanding the real world implications of these regulations to better understand the impact that this will have in the U.S."
The government's decision to regulate the export of kratom is not a ban on the domestic use of the commodity. The Ministry of Health, BRIN, and BPOM are still conducting research to determine the safe consumption of kratom in Indonesia.
About the Global Kratom Coalition
The Global Kratom Coalition is an alliance of kratom consumers, experts, and industry leaders dedicated to protecting and expanding access to kratom worldwide. The coalition focuses on advancing scientific research, driving consumer education, and developing robust regulations that protect consumers. For more information, please visit https://globalkratomcoalition.org.

LeanData Announces Winners of the 2024 OpsStars Awards
LeanData, the modern revenue orchestration platform for today’s growth leaders, and the OpsStars Community are excited to announce the winners of the 2024 OpsStars Awards. These prestigious awards celebrate the exceptional achievements of operations professionals who are leading the way in driving innovation and growth in their organizations. The OpsStars Awards recognize individuals and teams that have made significant contributions to the operations profession, helping to shape the future of the industry.
"We are thrilled to extend our heartfelt congratulations to all of our finalists and winners," said Evan Liang, CEO and co-founder of LeanData. "Your remarkable achievements in operations continue to inspire and drive the evolution of our industry. Thank you for leading the way and setting new standards of excellence in operations."
The 2024 OpsStars Award Winners
Account-Based Program of the Year
- Winner: Workiva
Digital Transformation Award
- Winner: Juniper Networks
Lead Management Program Transformation of the Year (<1,000 employees)
- Winner: Teikametrics
Lead Management Program Transformation of the Year (>1,000 employees)
- Winner: BMC Software
Most Cutting-Edge Ops Program of the Year
- Winner: MongoDB
Constellation Award
- Winner: Sumo Logic
OpsStar of the Year
- Winner: Kelly Goles, NVIDIA
The OpsStars Awards are part of the broader OpsStars Community, a vibrant network of professionals dedicated to advancing the operations field. These awards highlight the strategic role that operations professionals play in their organizations, from developing innovative account-based programs to driving digital transformation and lead management excellence.
The OpsStars Community continues to grow, bringing together thousands of sales, marketing, customer, and revenue operations leaders to share best practices, develop their careers, and build meaningful connections. The OpsStars Conference, held annually at the historic San Francisco Mint, provides a platform for this thriving community to come together and celebrate the successes of its members.
Join the OpsStars Community
Interested in learning more about the groundbreaking work of this year’s winners? Be sure to register for the OpsStars Conference and explore the full OpsStars agenda.
LeanData and the OpsStars Community encourage all operations professionals to engage with the community, learn from these inspiring leaders, and aspire to be future OpsStars Award winners.
About the OpsStars Awards
The OpsStars Awards celebrate individuals and teams whose groundbreaking innovations have propelled their organizations forward. Categories include Account-Based Program of the Year, Digital Transformation Award, Lead Management Program Transformation of the Year, Most Cutting-Edge Ops Program of the Year, The Constellation Award and OpsStar of the Year. These awards highlight the strategic role operations professionals play in driving revenue and the impact of their leadership within their organizations.
About LeanData
LeanData is the gold standard in Revenue Orchestration, empowering growth leaders to excel in the buyer-directed world of modern B2B selling. With a fully integrated solution, LeanData simplifies the coordination of plays, people and processes, transforming buyer signals into actionable decisions that drive revenue. For more information, visit LeanData.com.



From Superheroes to Super Moms: Caity Lotz and Danielle Panabaker Partner with Momcozy to Empower Mothers
Caity Lotz and Danielle Panabaker, stars of Arrow and The Flash, have embraced a new role: motherhood. As real-life super moms, they are inspiring a new wave of mothers with their strength and authenticity. Their transition from superheroes to mothers resonates deeply, making them ideal partners for Momcozy, a brand dedicated to supporting moms through every stage of motherhood.
Embracing the Journey
In an exclusive interview, Danielle Panabaker, a devoted mother of two, and Caity Lotz, who recently welcomed her first child, shared their transformative experiences. They offered heartfelt insights into the joys and challenges of parenting, emphasizing the importance of community and support. Their stories align perfectly with Momcozy's mission to provide comfort and companionship to mothers worldwide, enriching their lives and careers with new perspectives.
Building a Community with Momcozy Village
At the heart of Momcozy is the Momcozy Village initiative, a testament to the brand's commitment to community empowerment. This innovative program supports moms globally through online resources, offline connection points, and opportunities to learn from experts. With Lotz and Panabaker leading the charge, Momcozy Village fosters a nurturing network where mothers can share experiences and support each other, demonstrating that even superheroes thrive in a loving community.
Products That Moms Trust
Momcozy offers a trusted range of products, from nursing bras to breast pumps, designed to simplify motherhood. With Lotz and Panabaker as advocates, these products gain authenticity, showing that even super moms rely on Momcozy. Each thoughtfully crafted product prioritizes comfort, efficiency, and style, becoming essential in the daily lives of mothers who want to focus on what truly matters: their families.
Looking Ahead
As Caity Lotz and Danielle Panabaker continue their motherhood journey, Momcozy proudly stands by their side, committed to supporting mothers everywhere. The brand is dedicated to evolving with the needs of moms, offering innovative solutions and expanding its product range based on community feedback. Their partnership with Lotz and Panabaker reinforces a commitment to authenticity and relatability, ensuring every mother feels seen and supported.
Join the Movement
Momcozy warmly invites mothers to join this cozy evolution movement. By becoming part of the Momcozy Village community, mothers can connect with others who understand their journey, share stories, and offer practical advice. Together, we aim to empower every mom and grow with them.
About Momcozy
Momcozy is a global one-stop mother and baby brand dedicated to providing comfort and companionship to moms from pregnancy through early motherhood. For more information, visit https://www.momcozy.com.



Martin Karp Returns to the Ballot for Miami-Dade School Board This Fall
Martin Karp, an award-winning educator and lifelong advocate for Miami-Dade’s public schools, is officially back on the ballot for the fall election. As an experienced teacher, administrator, and former school board member, Karp is uniquely positioned to serve Miami-Dade’s students, parents, and educators, offering leadership that is rooted in firsthand experience and a deep commitment to academic excellence.
Karp’s extensive background in education makes him the best candidate for the Miami-Dade School Board. With years of classroom and administrative experience, he understands the complexities of the public school system and the importance of creating policies that truly benefit students. His award-winning track record as an educator sets him apart from other candidates and highlights his dedication to fostering success for all students.
"No one understands the needs of our schools better than someone who has worked directly with students, teachers, and families," said Martin Karp. "As an educator, I have seen what works and what needs improvement, and I am committed to ensuring that every student in Miami-Dade has access to the tools and resources they need to succeed."
Throughout his career, Karp has championed programs and initiatives that support student achievement, mental health, and teacher empowerment. His hands-on experience in education, combined with his deep understanding of the challenges facing today’s schools, makes him the ideal candidate to lead Miami-Dade’s public school system into the future.
"Education is the foundation of a strong community, and there’s no better way to support our future than by investing in our students today," said Karp. "I am running for the Miami-Dade School Board to ensure that every child has access to high-quality education and that our schools are equipped to meet the challenges of tomorrow."
This fall, Miami-Dade voters have the opportunity to elect a proven leader and advocate for students. With his unwavering dedication to education and his commitment to building stronger, safer schools, Martin Karp is the clear choice for the Miami-Dade School Board.
About Martin Karp
Martin Karp is an award-winning educator and former Miami-Dade School Board member. With a long history of service in education, he has worked as a teacher and administrator, and has been a vocal advocate for policies that support academic excellence, student well-being, and teacher development. His candidacy for the Miami-Dade School Board is driven by his commitment to improving educational outcomes for all students.



Kava Coalition Announces Dr. Simon Gellar as Spokesperson
The Kava Coalition (KC) is pleased to announce that Dr. Simon Gellar—a leading researcher on the consumption and economy of kava, as well as of cultural norms and substance policies more broadly—has officially joined KC as an expert spokesperson.
"Our social perceptions of kava—whether in Europe, North America, or the South Pacific—are complex, diverse and sometimes misunderstood in a negative manner," Dr. Gellar said. "Unfortunately, the EU and UK rules governing kava’s sale and consumption reflect that reality. Through my research, I have given voice to everyday consumers, and now, by joining KC, I hope to amplify their voices further."
Dr. Simon Gellar is a lecturer in Criminology at the University of Kent, where he has worked since 2021. His research seeks to understand novel psychoactive substances and their relative benefits and harms, alongside the lived experience of consumers, to inform more precise drug policy in the U.K. and internationally. Specific to kava, his research challenges the prohibition of its sale in the U.K. and untangles misconceptions about the plant from a cross-cultural perspective.
"As Dr. Gellar notes, the reality of safe kava consumption is not reflected in our general discourse, nor in many countries' substance policies," said Matthew Lowe, Executive Director of the Kava Coalition. "This is a failure of governance that, with Dr. Gellar’s counsel, we at Kava Coalition are now better equipped to correct."
Dr. Gellar recently completed a cross-cultural study of kava consumption in the U.K., U.S., and Vanuatu. It found that its consumption holds profound cultural significance in Vanuatu, where kava has been ingrained in social and ceremonial practices for centuries. In the U.K. and U.S., meanwhile, lacking such historical context, consumers tend to adopt kava as an alternative to conventional medicine or alcohol. It further demonstrates the benefits of trade in Kava between these countries, particularly emerging south pacific economies which experiencing positive social mobility via the demand of Kava from western countries. The study also explains reports linking kava consumption to liver damage, which have been dismissed through discourse with those who consume kava daily.
"Elixir of the South Pacific or Harmful Muddy Water: Examining the Consumption of Kava from a Cross-Cultural Perspective and the Lived Experience of Macro-Level Social Processes" is slated to publish, and disseminate through peer-reviewed channels, later this year.
About the Kava Coalition
Kava Coalition (KC) is a global alliance of kava consumers, experts, and industry leaders committed to advancing kava education, advocacy, and choice. Through educational initiatives and community engagement, KC promotes awareness and appreciation for kava’s traditional practices and cultural significance. Simultaneously, KC advocates for modern regulation that reflects current scientific knowledge, ensuring consumer safety and product integrity.

Del Mar Energy Continues to Upgrade Texas Refinery
The Texas oil refinery is one of the most environmentally friendly and technologically advanced facilities in the U.S. The refinery has a capacity of 475,000 barrels per day. However, the company is not resting on its laurels and is currently undertaking a large-scale modernization aimed at boosting the plant’s productivity.
The Texas refinery’s development program can be considered a benchmark for the entire American oil refining industry. Following the modernization, the plant will further enhance the quality of its operations and the volume of processed products. The Texas refinery has already reduced its environmental impact by 40%, and after the completion of the modernization, it will reduce it by an additional 25%. The new complex will be connected to an air monitoring system that will transmit data to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in real time.
International holding company Del Mar Energy is actively participating in the project, essentially acting as the main contractor for both the technical modernization of the Texas refinery and the associated infrastructure.
The Texas refinery is modernizing its production using the best available technologies. The total investment in these efforts will reach $5 billion by 2025. Thanks to the modernization, our facility is improving production efficiency while consistently reducing its overall environmental impact.
The continuous execution of the Texas refinery modernization is significantly influenced by direct and private investments from American companies.
Del Mar Energy is one of the American industrial companies that has been operating since 2002 in the fields of oil and coal extraction, processing, and sales; electricity production and distribution; construction of wind and solar power plants; as well as the production, repair, and rental of electromechanical equipment.
Del Mar Energy has numerous large projects completed worldwide and an impeccable reputation that is crucial not only in the American but also in the international market. Currently, Del Mar Energy, possessing all the necessary licenses to operate in its core areas, exports its products to more than 20 countries.
It is worth noting that Del Mar Energy has been using the popular method of private financing for many years in America and other countries. The company attracts private investments, helping them to not remain stagnant but to continuously develop, modernize, and successfully complete large-scale projects in many countries.
Since its founding, Del Mar Energy has attracted more than 28,000 investors, and in 2023 alone, the company built 32,000 miles of roads, 102 bridges, installed 90,000 solar panels, extracted and sold 24 million tons of coal, 43 million barrels of oil, and built 50 thermal and hydroelectric power stations.
The modernization of the Texas Refinery is a significant milestone in the industrial and economic life of the region. Del Mar Energy’s involvement in this process allows the facility to reach a new industrial level and establish itself as an environmentally adaptive production site. For more detailed information about the company, visit the official online platform at delmar.biz. The holding is open to collaboration with private individuals and offers highly flexible financial and economic solutions.
About Del Mar Energy
Del Mar Energy Inc. is an international industrial holding company operating in the areas of oil, gas and coal production, energy, road construction and renewable energy production. For more information, visit delmar.biz.



Michele Benjamin Bronze Sculpture "Splendid Tiger" and More, Featured in "Time and Space" Art Exhibition Opening at Pictor Gallery in New York's Chelsea Art District
Michele Benjamin, an artist specializing in the creation of jewelry, sculpture, digital photography prints, and wearable art, today announced that her work is being featured at "Time & Space" Art Exhibition Opening on September 3–28, 2024, in Gallery 2 along with featured artists Eugene Albulescu, Judith Luongo, Elizabeth Stern, and Ruth Antrich.
The opening reception will be held on Thursday, September 5 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Pictor Gallery, located at 547 West 27 Street, Suite 204—in the heart of the Chelsea Gallery District, one of the most important and influential art districts in the world.
Michele Benjamin's artwork, "Splendid Tiger," a bronze sculpture measuring 9 inches in length, 5 3/8 inches in height, 2 7/8 inches in depth and priced at $3,500, will be on exhibit through February 27, alongside distinguished artists. The Splendid Tiger is a 3D solid bronze sculpture with a rich gold patina finish. The features are rendered in the style of Bengal endangered species with black stripes, in a roaring fierce stance. Cast at foundry. Hot poured bronze. Lost wax method from mold, and fired gold patina. Additional works will be on exhibit that are created to bring awareness to the delicate nature of endangered wildlife and the beauty and fragility of nature's fiercest creatures.
For more information about Michele Benjamin and her work, please visit https://www.michelebenjamin.com.



CEO of The Matchbox Delivers TEDx Talk on "Marketing in the Age of AI" at TEDxSaintAndrewsSchool
The Matchbox, a marketing agency that specializes in leveraging AI and machine learning for digital marketing, today announced that its CEO, Ani Bisaria, delivered a TEDx talk on "Marketing in the Age of AI" at TEDxSaintAndrewsSchool in Boca Raton, Florida. The talk, held on April 19, 2024, explores the impact of AI on modern advertising strategies and raises important questions about privacy, consumer choice, and ethical business practices.
To view the full TEDx Talk by Ani Bisaria, visit: thematchbox.inc/blog/ani-bisaria-ted
During his presentation, Bisaria highlighted key themes such as targeted advertising, generative AI, the morality of retargeting, and ethical dilemmas in marketing. He emphasized the need for businesses to balance personalization with consumer privacy and ethical considerations in the age of AI-driven marketing.
Looking ahead, The Matchbox plans to continue leading the way in innovative digital marketing strategies that prioritize human expertise while leveraging AI and machine learning technologies. The company remains committed to providing cutting-edge solutions for clients across various industries.
For more information about The Matchbox and to stay updated on their latest developments, visit thematchbox.inc.
About The Matchbox
The Matchbox is a premier digital marketing and media agency headquartered in Los Angeles, CA. We specialize in scaling mid-market and enterprise companies through a range of services, including paid media, programmatic advertising, media production, and sales/marketing operations. Leveraging both AI and human expertise, we are committed to reshaping work experiences and increasing productivity for our clients around the world. For more information, please visit www.thematchbox.inc.

Leela AI to Demo AI for Manufacturing Using Google Cloud at IMTS 2024
At the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) 2024, Leela AI will demonstrate how Google Cloud AI and edge computing enable improvements in performance, quality, and safety. Leela AI’s innovative visual intelligence technology allows manufacturers to gain deeper visibility into their production processes, including the human activity that is missed by machine sensors.
Leela uses a standard video feed to measure and analyze the interactions between people, tools, machinery, robots, parts, and products to identify bottlenecks, best practices, and safety hazards. The AI-powered software lets its users easily compare productivity across shifts and stations, and view powerful insights from the information it captures.
In April, Leela AI announced the availability of Leela Platform on Google Cloud Marketplace.
At IMTS, Leela AI will demonstrate its visual intelligence solution in the Google Cloud Booth, #236709. An interactive demo will allow visitors to assemble a toy car out of Legos and then review their performance using Leela.
"Leela AI is an excellent example of the kind of innovative smart manufacturing solutions available on Google Cloud and Google Distributed Cloud that extends Google Cloud’s infrastructure and AI capabilities to the edge," said Praveen Rao, Managing Director, Global Market Leader, Manufacturing, Google Cloud. "We look forward to unlocking the modern manufacturing experience with Leela in the Google Cloud booth at IMTS in Chicago and beyond."
"We are excited to be included in the Google Cloud booth at IMTS where we will demonstrate how our visual intelligence platform can help manufacturers cut waste and improve productivity, quality, and safety," said Cyrus Shaoul, CEO, Leela AI. "Whether you deploy fully in the cloud or partially on the edge, Leela AI and Google Cloud have you covered."
About Leela AI
Leela AI is helping manufacturers achieve greater visibility into their operations to drive performance and continuous improvement. Leela’s privacy-enabled visual intelligence software identifies and times every step in the manufacturing process to spotlight best practices, bottlenecks, and safety hazards. Leela helps manufacturers track hourly performance, support standard work, reduce waste, boost capacity, and improve safety, while also expanding digitization beyond machine data.
Visit Leela AI at leela.ai.



American Kratom Association Asks FDA Commissioner Califf to Convene a Public Stakeholders Meeting on Kratom Policy
The American Kratom Association (AKA) today called upon FDA Commissioner Robert Califf, M.D. to convene a public stakeholder meeting on kratom regulatory policies of the FDA. The AKA’s letter to Commissioner Califf called out the fact the FDA itself has, in an official court document, stated that the Agency has "not yet made a determination regarding whether kratom is dangerous."
The FDA has waged a persistent war on kratom, including making unsupported claims in official publications in the Federal Register that kratom’s main alkaloids pose an "imminent hazard to public safety” (see Factor 6. What, if any, Risk is There to the Public Health). In addition, the current FDA and Kratom website contains outdated, inaccurate, and scientifically unsupportable claims about the purported dangers of kratom use (see FDA and Kratom Site).
"It is our sincere hope that Commissioner Califf will see the importance of a public stakeholder meeting where conflicts in the Agency’s policy on kratom and the current science and policy landscape can be fully evaluated in the context of consumer experiences, advocacy groups, legal experts, and scientists in a two-way engagement on the best regulatory policy on kratom," stated Mac Haddow, Senior Fellow on Public Policy for the AKA.
Link to the September 4, 2024, AKA letter to Commissioner Califf
About American Kratom Association (AKA)
The American Kratom Association (AKA), a consumer-based non-profit organization, advocates to protect the freedom of consumers to safely consume natural kratom as a part of their personal health and well-being regimen. AKA represents the nearly 20 million Americans who consume kratom safely each year. For more information, visit www.americankratom.org.

Capitol City Legal Group Lead Attorney Andrey Yurtsan Inducted into Million Dollar Advocates Forum
Capitol City Legal Group, a leading personal injury attorney firm in Roseville, proudly announces a significant milestone in its commitment to client advocacy. Andrey Yurtsan, the firm's lead Roseville personal injury attorney, has been inducted into the prestigious Million Dollar Advocates Forum, an elite organization limited to attorneys who have secured million and multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements.
This recognition underscores Capitol City Legal Group's dedication to delivering superior legal representation and achieving remarkable results for personal injury victims in Roseville and surrounding areas. The firm's expertise in handling complex personal injury cases has consistently led to substantial recoveries for their clients, solidifying their reputation as top-tier car accident attorneys in Roseville.
"Joining the Million Dollar Advocates Forum is a testament to our unwavering commitment to our clients," said Yurtsan, lead car accident attorney at Capitol City Legal Group. "This achievement reflects our team's relentless pursuit of justice and fair compensation for those we represent in Roseville and beyond."
Capitol City Legal Group's success stems from its innovative approach to personal injury law, combining cutting-edge legal strategies with compassionate client care. As Roseville's premier personal injury law firm, they continue to set the standard for excellence in legal representation.
Key highlights of Capitol City Legal Group's services include:
- Expertise in personal injury cases in Roseville
- A track record of million-dollar settlements and verdicts
- Personalized attention from experienced Roseville personal injury attorneys
For Roseville residents seeking expert legal representation for car accidents or personal injury cases, Capitol City Legal Group offers free consultations. Their team is ready to provide the high-caliber advocacy that has earned them recognition among the nation's top legal professionals.
To learn more about how Capitol City Legal Group can assist with your personal injury or car accident case in the greater Sacramento area, visit https://capitolcitylegalgroup.com or call (916) 500-PAIN (7246).
About Capitol City Legal Group
Capitol City Legal Group is Roseville's leading personal injury and car accident law firm. With a focus on client success and a history of significant case outcomes, our team of experienced Roseville personal injury attorneys is dedicated to securing justice and maximum compensation for accident victims. From car accidents to complex personal injury cases, Capitol City Legal Group provides unparalleled legal expertise and personalized service to clients throughout Roseville and the surrounding areas. For more information, visit https://capitolcitylegalgroup.com.



Alexander Spellane Features Jay Furman, Republican Nominee for Congress in Texas, on “The Right Wing Voice” Podcast
In a compelling new episode of “The Right Wing Voice” podcast, host Alexander Spellane, CEO of Fisher Capital, sits down with Jay Furman, the recently selected Republican nominee for Congress in Texas. Furman, a retired naval officer, brings a wealth of experience and a clear vision for the future of America.
The episode, now available on all major podcast platforms, centers around Furman’s advocacy for a return to Trump-era policies, particularly focusing on national security and economic sovereignty. As the conversation unfolds, Furman passionately argues for the completion of the border wall and emphasizes the critical importance of securing America’s borders to protect national interests.
A key highlight of the episode is Furman’s discussion on the role of gold in empowering conservatives. He articulates how investing in gold can provide a stable economic foundation, ensuring financial independence and bolstering conservative values in the face of economic uncertainty.
Key Topics Covered
- The Power of Gold: Furman explores how gold investments can strengthen conservative economic strategies, fostering stability and sovereignty.
- Securing America’s Borders: A detailed discussion on the necessity of completing the border wall and implementing stronger border security measures to ensure the safety and prosperity of the nation.
This episode offers a thought-provoking discussion for those committed to conservative principles and interested in the future of American governance. Jay Furman’s insights provide a roadmap for achieving a secure and prosperous America, resonating deeply with the values of national security and economic independence.
Listeners interested in tuning in can find "The Right Wing Voice" on various podcast platforms, including Spotify, Youtube, Amazon Music, and Apple Podcasts.
About “The Right Wing Voice” Podcast
“The Right Wing Voice,” hosted by Alexander Spellane, is a podcast dedicated to exploring conservative ideas, policies, and leadership. Each episode features in-depth interviews with influential figures who are driving the conversation on the right, providing listeners with valuable insights and perspectives on the most pressing issues facing America today.
About Fisher Capital
Fisher Capital, led by CEO Alexander Spellane, is a leading investment firm specializing in helping clients protect and grow their wealth through strategic investments in physical assets. Committed to providing expert financial advice and unparalleled service, Fisher Capital is proud to sponsor content that empowers individuals to secure their financial futures. To learn more, visit https://www.fishercapitalgroup.com.



Alexander Spellane Interviews Andrew Crapuchettes on “The Right Wing Voice” Podcast
Alexander Spellane, CEO of Fisher Capital and host of “The Right Wing Voice” podcast, is thrilled to announce the release of Episode 9, featuring an insightful interview with Andrew Crapuchettes, founder and CEO of RedBalloon. This episode delves into the critical issues of workplace freedom, conservative hiring practices, and the power of economic influence.
In this engaging episode, Crapuchettes shares his journey and mission with RedBalloon, America’s #1 pro-freedom job board. RedBalloon connects serious job seekers with employers who respect their faith and values, avoiding mandates that compromise personal beliefs. Crapuchettes explains how RedBalloon maintains workplace freedom by not requiring vaccines, DEI initiatives, or other politically charged mandates. The conversation also touches on why many businesses are reluctant to hire graduates from “woke” colleges, preferring hardworking individuals who focus on their roles rather than political activism.
Crapuchettes discusses RedBalloon’s involvement in the Truth Movement, including monthly surveys of over 70,000 businesses on their views regarding politics, education, ethics, and values. Many businesses would rather hire alumni from Turning Point USA over those from Harvard, highlighting a shift towards valuing work ethic and alignment with conservative principles. The episode further explores Spellane’s emphasis on the importance of “Voting with Your Wallet,” encouraging listeners to use their financial decisions to support businesses that align with their personal worldviews.
Crapuchettes urges listeners to take daily actions to support conservative media and companies, reinforcing the impact of consistent, small changes in behavior. He also highlights the importance of investing in gold, viewing it as an investment in America’s original financial standard and a way of supporting the country’s foundational principles.
About "The Right Wing Voice" Podcast
Hosted by Alexander Spellane, “The Right Wing Voice” podcast features in-depth interviews and discussions on conservative values, economic strategies, and political issues. The podcast aims to provide listeners with insights and actions to support their beliefs and make a difference in their communities.
About RedBalloon
RedBalloon is a leading pro-freedom job board that connects job seekers with employers who respect their faith and values. With over 3,700 businesses on the platform, RedBalloon aims to create a workplace environment that prioritizes individual freedoms and hard work over political agendas. To learn more, visit https://www.redballoon.work/
About Fisher Capital
Fisher Capital, led by CEO Alexander Spellane, is a leading investment firm specializing in helping clients protect and grow their wealth through strategic investments in physical assets. Committed to providing expert financial advice and unparalleled service, Fisher Capital is proud to sponsor content that empowers individuals to secure their financial futures. To learn more, visit https://www.fishercapitalgroup.com.



SkyCoach Broadens Catalog to Include 25 New Highly Rated Games
Leading platform for professional in-game services, SkyCoach, increases its catalog with 25 new games, including Helldivers 2, Brawl Stars, PUBG Mobile, and more.
SkyCoach helps players achieve their gaming goals through professional boosting, coaching, and guidance. Gamers can hire pro players to play various games on their behalf. This includes titles like Diablo 4, FC24, LoL, Path of Exile, Escape from Tarkov, and more. The boosting service initially offered coaching and in-game items for only 65 games. Now, the service has expanded to include 25 more popular games, which broadens the catalog to an outstanding 90 titles.
The boosting service expanded its catalog to give players access to a wide range of games to choose from. Since most new titles are quickly gaining popularity, the increase ensures all players can get help with their favorite games. Whether that’s power leveling, running dungeons, farming resources, or rank boosting. The platform started offering coaching and boosting services for the top-rated MMORPG WoW. Today, players can choose from 90 games to achieve desired results.
The recent expansion includes titles such as Helldivers 2, Palworld, Once Human, Ravendown, PUBG Mobile, and more. Players can view the complete list of games on SkyCoach. From the list, they can select the title they play and the boosting or coaching service they need. This can be character leveling, weapon boosting, or completing missions, which varies depending on the game. After picking a game and a service, they’ll pay and be matched with a pro player to discuss further details.
SkyCoach makes it easy for gamers to find the help they need. The platform features a simple interface where players can browse all 90 games. After picking a game, they’re automatically redirected to its page to view the list of services or in-game items available.
SkyCoach plans to integrate more games in the future. This includes upcoming titles like Call of Duty Black Ops 6. Expanding the service catalog further will give players an extensive range of products to pick from. They can get currencies, obtain rare items, complete quests, and grind missions in some of their favorite games. This will save them the time and effort it takes to complete these activities.
Players who are too busy to play or simply want to skip certain game aspects can use SkyCoach to quickly get ahead. They’ll connect with pro players with years of gaming experience. As a leading platform for professional in-game services and items, SkyCoach allows players to instantly get all the boosting, coaching, and guidance they need.
About SkyCoach
SkyCoach is an online platform that provides professional boosting, coaching, and guidance to players globally. Since 2020, the platform allows players to achieve desired in-game results for various titles. These include Destiny 2, Clash of Clans, Rust, Division 2, Dota 2, The Finals, and Path of Exile. For more information, visit https://skycoach.gg.


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