Newsroom

The Scientific Association for Botanical Education and Research (SABER) commends the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for issuing a critical warning letter to Hydroxie, LLC, for illegally marketing products containing 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), a semi-synthetic compound with potent opioid-like effects that poses serious public health risks.

In its June 25, 2025, letter, the FDA clearly states that Hydroxie’s products, which are sold online and promoted on social media, are unapproved new drugs and adulterated food products under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. The FDA’s letter highlights multiple violations, including:

• The illegal marketing of unapproved new drugs marketed as a treatment option for serious conditions like fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, and depression, without any FDA evaluation for safety or effectiveness.
• Adulteration of food products by adding 7-OH, which is not generally recognized as safe (GRAS) and has never been approved as a food additive.
• Consumer deception through unsubstantiated health claims and misleading testimonials.

“This decisive action by the FDA reinforces the urgent need for clear, enforceable standards to protect consumers from unsafe, unregulated, and misrepresented synthetic and semi-synthetic substances masquerading as botanicals,” said Dr. Paula Brown, a member of SABER’s Scientific Steering Committee.  “Natural botanicals can be part of responsible wellness practices when regulated properly, but unapproved, high-potency synthetic derivatives like semi-synthetic 7-OH cross a line and put consumers at risk.”

The FDA’s letter further warns that products containing 7-OH have been linked to adverse events, including liver and cardiovascular toxicity, respiratory depression, and dependence.

SABER calls on federal and state regulators to build on this action by implementing science-based standards for the entire botanical industry, including:

• Rigorous testing and truthful labeling
• Restrictions on synthetic, semi-synthetic, or highly concentrated derivatives not found in nature
•  Clear consumer education on the differences between natural botanicals and dangerous synthetic analogues

“Consumers deserve safe, authentic botanical products that are responsibly manufactured and accurately represented,” said Dr. Mary Hardy, another founding member of SABER’s Scientific Steering Committee. “We applaud the FDA’s efforts to protect the public from harmful, misbranded substances and will continue to advocate for policies that uphold safety, integrity, and consumer trust.”

About Scientific Association for Botanical Education and Research (SABER)

Media Contact

Paloma Lehfeldt
info@saberscience.org

YOURPAD is thrilled to unveil the restaurant space at The Charlee on Cannon, a brand-new, meticulously crafted building poised to redefine the dining landscape in the vibrant STR (short-term rental) district. The team behind The Charlee transformed the space above and behind the restaurant into stunning, luxury vacation rentals with the aim of having the tenant serve the dining needs of over 70 guests each night.

Offering a rare opportunity for restaurateurs and commercial real estate professionals, this dynamic space is designed to elevate your brand and captivate your clientele. The site is located adjacent to a public parking lot, offering patrons over fifty parking spaces — unheard of in the downtown area.

Key Highlights

• Prime Location: Situated in the heart of the STR district, less than a five-minute walk to King Street, Charlee on Cannon offers unparalleled visibility and foot traffic.
• Spacious & Versatile Space: 2,303 square feet of shell-ready retail/restaurant space with 100’ of front frontage, 13’ ceilings, and sidewalk dining pre-approval — perfect for creating a memorable dining or retail experience.
• Design Excellence: Crafted by Ramos Architecture & Design and featuring interior elegance by Jenny Keenan Design, the space boasts modern aesthetics and thoughtful layouts, ready for your startup to bring it to life.
• Enhanced Customer Experience: Sidewalk dining pre-approved and sidewalk dining potential make this space ideal for outdoor hospitality, fostering community engagement and increased foot traffic.
• Turnkey Opportunity: The space is shell-ready, allowing tenants to start upfit immediately and customize to their brand’s unique vision.

Why The Charlee?

This exceptional property combines strategic location, generous frontage, and premium design to help your business stand out. Whether you're launching a flagship restaurant or expanding to the Holy City, Charlee on Cannon offers the perfect foundation to grow and thrive.

Don’t Miss Out!

Leasing opportunities like this don’t come often. Contact us today to schedule a tour and explore how The Charlee restaurant can become the next cornerstone of your success.

For more information, visit: thecharleeoncannon.com/restaurant-space/

For additional details or to schedule a viewing, contact:

David Betts
404-408-3657
david@hostyourpad.com

About YOURPAD

Based in Charleston, YOURPAD specializes in short-term rental management with a commitment to excellence and profitability. Our tailored approach to each property ensures that both guests and homeowners receive the attention and service they deserve. For more information, please visit our website at hostyourpad.com.

Media Contact

David Betts
david@hostyourpad.com

American Kratom Association (AKA) today lauded the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for taking decisive enforcement action by issuing a series of Warning Letters against vendors selling products containing dangerous synthesized and chemically manipulated compounds such as 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) and similar concentrated compound products (7-OH in its naturally occurring form appears only in trace amounts in kratom plant material.)

The FDA’s Warning Letters serve as notice to all companies marketing and selling products that contain 7-OH, pseudoindoxyl, and “M” that such products are illegal under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (the FD&C Act) and that the continued marketing and selling of such products opens the responsible parties up to having their products seized, their actions enjoined, or perhaps even criminal prosecution.

The AKA submitted 18 complaints to the FDA on May 21, 2025, reporting vendors selling chemically manipulated 7-OH, pseudoindoxyl, and “M” products that are identified in the new warning letters that identify illegal therapeutic claims, unlawful product formulations, and deceptive labeling practices that violate federal law and put consumers at significant risk.

The FDA’s warning letters make clear that vendors marketing 7-OH, pseudoindoxyl, and “M” products — including tablets, sublingual strips, drink mixes, and shots — that contain synthetically enhanced and chemically manipulated 7-OH product formulations that are being illegally marketed to treat conditions such as anxiety, chronic pain, fibromyalgia, depression, and more. The agency emphasized that the labeling of these products renders them as unapproved new drugs and adulterated foods under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.

“This FDA action shines a spotlight on a massive and growing problem in the kratom marketplace,” said Mac Haddow, senior fellow on public policy for the American Kratom Association. “The companies that received these Warning Letters are just some of a significant number of companies engaged in transparently improper marketing — misleading consumers by branding these 7-OH products as ‘kratom’ while making illegal health claims and using unsafe synthetic or semi-synthetic formulations — and none of these products are kratom. This is a massive fraud on consumers that puts their safety directly at risk.”

According to the FDA’s Warning Letters, companies selling these chemically manipulated super concentrations of 7-OH, pseudoindoxyl, and “M” products are:

• Making Illegal Drug Claims: Marketing products as treatments or cures for serious medical conditions without any scientific substantiation or FDA approval.
• Selling Unsafe Product Formulations: Adding chemically manipulated 7-OH and related products, a compound with known opioid-like effects, to foods and beverages without safety reviews or regulatory clearance.
• Using Deceptive Labeling and Testimonials: Relying on misleading claims and consumer testimonials to promote unproven benefits and hide the true nature of their products.

The AKA has long warned that products containing chemically manipulated products like enhanced 7-OH — especially those sold in concentrated shots and tablets — are not representative of traditional kratom leaf or extracts using FDA approved food grade solvents and appear to be intentionally designed and formulated to mimic the effects of opioids. These products distort public understanding of kratom and provide ammunition to critics who want to ban access to the natural kratom plant entirely.

Haddow also emphasized the AKA strongly encourages the FDA to not simply issue Warning Letters but to also aggressively follow up with enforcement actions against companies that continue to market these dangerous chemically manipulated 7-OH-containing products. “FDA’s Warning Letters do not just serve as notice to the specific companies who received them. These Warning Letters serve as notice to an entire industry that products containing chemically manipulated kratom compounds are both violative of the FD&C Act and present a real risk to consumers. We strongly encourage FDA to use the full weight of its authority for products that remain on the market — to include seizing violative products, seeking injunctions to prevent bad players from remaining on the market and in appropriate situations criminal prosecution.”

The AKA continues to advocate for the passage of Kratom Consumer Protection Acts (KCPA) in states across the country to establish clear rules that ban chemically manipulated kratom products, ensure accurate labeling, and hold bad actors accountable.

About American Kratom Association (AKA)

Media Contact

Mac Haddow
mhaddow@americankratom.org

The Ferguson Law Firm, LLP today announced that equity partner Cody Dishon has been named to TopVerdict.com’s annual list for obtaining the largest medical malpractice jury verdict in Texas for 2024 and one of the top verdicts nationwide.

A jury awarded $59.7 million to his client, who suffered severe neurological deficits after hospital personnel failed to diagnose and treat a spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma in time (Cause No. E-207079).

The two-week trial featured testimony from 23 expert and fact witnesses. Although the hospital denied any responsibility during the proceedings, the jury disagreed and found the hospital 90 percent at fault. The jury returned a verdict of approximately $14.6 million in economic damages to cover the client’s lifetime medical care and loss of earning capacity. In addition, the jury awarded $16 million for pain and suffering, $16.6 million for mental anguish, and $12.5 million for physical impairment.

“This verdict is about accountability and restoring dignity to someone whose life was permanently altered by medical negligence. It sends a clear message that patient safety must be a top priority. We’re honored by Top Verdict’s recognition of the result and the justice it represents,” Dishon, lead trial counsel, said.

“Cody is relentless. And this verdict reflects that. We’ve nurtured a trial-ready culture at our firm and we’re proud of verdicts like these. This honor validates our mission to secure life-changing results for our client,” Paul “Chip” Ferguson, Ferguson Law Firm managing partner, said.

The trial team also included Javier Cabanillas of Ferguson Law Firm.

“Javier’s exceptional work ethic and unwavering dedication were instrumental in the success of this important case,” Dishon said.

Over the last several years, Cody Dishon has secured nearly 30 seven-figure verdicts and settlements for clients.

Additional High-Stakes Result: $5.5 Million Arbitration Award

Dishon’s winning streak continued with a $5.5 million final arbitration award in favor of the family of a worker killed on a job site. Although the defendant forced the case into private arbitration, Dishon’s team uncovered critical safety failures that led to the record award. The award is among the largest reported personal-injury arbitration outcomes of 2024.

What is TopVerdict.com and how are its rankings determined?

TopVerdict.com (“Top Verdict”) is an independent legal-analytics outlet that publishes annual lists of the largest jury verdicts and settlements across the United States. Rankings are compiled from public court records, verdict databases, news reports, and attorney submissions. Inclusion is free and based solely on the final dollar amount of the result.

I suspect medical negligence injured me or a loved one. What should I do first?

Document everything: request copies of medical records, keep a journal of symptoms, and gather bills or insurance statements. Next, consult an experienced medical-malpractice attorney as soon as possible to review timelines and preserve crucial evidence.

My employment or patient paperwork forces disputes into arbitration. Can I still obtain Justice?

Yes. While arbitration limits courtroom access, skilled counsel can still secure substantial awards, as demonstrated by Mr. Dishon’s recent $5.5 million result. An attorney can challenge unfair provisions, conduct full discovery, and present expert testimony within the arbitration forum.

About Ferguson Law Firm

The Ferguson Law Firm, LLP was established in Beaumont, TX, by personal injury attorney Paul “Chip” Ferguson, Jr. to advocate for clients that have suffered injuries due to negligence of another person or party. Distinguished Senior Partner Mrs. Jane Swearingen Leger joined the firm in 2016. Mrs. Leger brings her many years of service to the firm, with expertise in industrial accidents, employment discrimination law, and personal injury. Jane has successfully argued before the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals and the Texas Supreme Court.

Mr. Ferguson is the 18-wheeler attorney for people injured in trucking accidents. In addition to being named “Lawyer of the Year” on multiple occasions, Mr. Ferguson has received many other honors, including being named Litigation Star by Benchmark Litigation Induction, inducted as an Advocate into the American Board of Trial Advocates, and named to the Texas Top 100 by the National Trial Lawyers Association, and named to National Top 10 by the National Academy of Trial Attorneys.

Both attorneys have been duly recognized for their exceptional work and have received numerous honors and accolades in their field. Our firm is dedicated, and we aim to seek the justice that our clients deserve.

At 30 years old, ownership partner Cody Dishon achieved one of the most significant milestones in his career—becoming one of the youngest attorneys in Texas history to achieve his Board Certification in Personal Injury Trial Law from the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. This specialization requires one to obtain at least 10 jury verdicts in personal injury cases as lead trial counsel. With less than 2% of all lawyers in Texas holding this objective title, his achievement stands as a testament to his dedication, knowledge, work ethic, and expertise.

For more information, visit https://www.thefergusonlawfirm.com.

Disclaimer

In some jurisdictions, this press release may be considered attorney advertising.

Media Contact

Amanda Orr
amanda@orrstrategygroup.com

Pontiac Intelligence, a leading programmatic media buying platform, today announced a direct integration with Triton Audio Marketplace, one of the world’s premier digital audio marketplaces. This integration enables all Pontiac users to access premium streaming audio ad inventory directly through the platform. With this new partnership, advertisers using Pontiac DSP can seamlessly launch and manage campaigns across a wide range of digital audio environments, including podcasts, music streaming services, and online radio, reaching listeners in brand-safe and highly engaged settings.

“This is a major step forward for our platform and our users,” said, Ben Lewis, senior vice president of business development at Pontiac Intelligence. “Streaming audio is one of the fastest-growing channels in digital media, and with this integration, we’re giving advertisers an array of tools to bring their first-party data as well as target by podcast and channel.”

Pontiac Intelligence continues to expand its media capabilities while maintaining its commitment to transparency, control, and cost-efficiency for media buyers of all sizes.

About Pontiac Intelligence

Pontiac Intelligence is a demand-side platform (DSP) focused on PMP management which empowers advertisers with transparent, self-serve tools to buy media across programmatic channels, including display, video, CTV, and now, streaming audio. To learn more, visit pontiac.media.

Media Contact

Kelsey Messerley
kmesserley@pontiac.media

NaviStone helps marketers convert online behavior into tangible outcomes, addressing key brand challenges with speed, precision, and valuable insights. As the marketing technology company deepens its investment in innovative solutions and customer impact, it has named Jay Webster as its new chief technology officer.

With a career that bridges scientific research, software engineering, and executive leadership across some of the most dynamic tech sectors, Webster brings both breadth and precision to the role. He has held senior roles in martech, e-commerce, and energy. He is widely recognized for his work in SEM, behavioral targeting, programmatic media, and data-driven customer engagement.

Originally trained as a scientist at SRI International, Webster transitioned into technology as a QA engineer at Sun Microsystems before rising into roles that combined product, operations, and strategy. Most recently, he has served in executive and leadership roles at companies including Cision, Valassis, and Choose Energy.

“There’s no shortage of marketing tech out there, but NaviStone stands apart by helping brands take immediate action on intent signals to drive business outcomes,” said Webster. “We don’t just give companies tools. We help them find and reach audiences at the right moment, with the right message via engaging, attributable media. That ability to solve market-specific problems with speed and accuracy is what brought me here.”

Webster’s leadership philosophy centers on a clear and compelling idea: work with great people to build great things. He has consistently fostered team environments grounded in trust, collaboration, and shared purpose. Known for his ability to align technical excellence with a strong culture, Webster brings a thoughtful approach to innovation. His values resonate with NaviStone’s approach to working side by side with clients to navigate change, uncover opportunity, and deliver results that move the needle — especially in sectors like retail, travel, and home services, where speed to market and smart audience modeling are critical.

As CTO, Webster will lead NaviStone’s technology organization with a focus on advancing market solutions that fluidly adapt to the customer’s changing pulse . His leadership will be instrumental in helping the company meet increasing demand across retail, travel, home services, and other key verticals.

“Jay brings a rare mix of technical expertise and the ability to translate innovation into customer value,” said Larry Kavanagh, CEO of NaviStone. “In a landscape that’s constantly shifting, marketers need more than just data. They need smart, fast, and tailored solutions. Jay’s leadership will be a major asset as we continue to deliver exactly that.”

Webster’s appointment comes at a time of strong momentum for NaviStone, and his role will be key in helping the company scale its technology to meet the evolving needs of modern marketers. As channels fragment and competition intensifies, brands need partners that can turn behavioral signals into timely action and do so without adding complexity. Webster’s leadership will support NaviStone’s mission to simplify that path and accelerate meaningful results.

About NaviStone

NaviStone is a martech platform that unlocks and activates audiences brands are missing out on today. By combining website behavior with modeling, NaviStone enables marketers to deliver highly personalized media and messaging at the exact moment a consumer is considering a purchase. This approach increases return on marketing spend up to 70%.

Headquartered in Cincinnati, NaviStone is trusted by leading brands across travel, retail, home services, and more. The company has been recognized as a Best Employer in Ohio, a Best Places to Work in Cincinnati, and a TechOhio Startup Culture Award winner.

For more information, visit www.navistone.com.

Media Contact

Nikki Shenk
nshenk@navistone.com

The Highlands Performing Arts Center will celebrate the best of cinema with the inaugural Highlands-Cashiers Film Festival, taking place September 18–21, 2025. The four-day event will feature a diverse selection of films from both emerging and established filmmakers, as well as competition screenings, workshops, and panels with acclaimed industry professionals and award winners. Hosted in the picturesque Great Smoky Mountains, the Highlands-Cashiers Film Festival will benefit children’s theatre and the advancement of the arts for this community.

"We are excited to bring together filmmakers and audiences in a celebration of cinema," said Walter Chaw, senior film critic for award-winning web journal Film Freak Central and festival consultant. "The Highlands-Cashiers Film Festival is not just about watching great films; it's about fostering a community of creativity and inspiration."

The inaugural festival will feature over 20 films, including independent submissions, "Roman Holiday," "Donnie Darko," "Ghostworld," and "To Kill A Mockingbird." The classic films are being presented by actors and cinematic professionals connected to the movies. Attendees can look forward to engaging panel discussions, Q&A sessions with filmmakers, and networking opportunities.

For more information about the festival, including the full lineup and schedule of events, as well as to purchase tickets, please visit highlandscashiersfilmfestival.com.

About Highlands-Cashiers Film Festival

Born from a shared love of film, creativity, and community, the Highlands-Cashiers Film Festival is a grassroots celebration of storytelling in all its forms. In our first year, we are thrilled to welcome filmmakers and audiences to our small North Carolina town, where we connect through the power of cinema. With a team primarily composed of dedicated volunteers, we’re here to uplift emerging voices and create a space for meaningful artistic exchange. For more information, visit highlandscashiersfilmfestival.com.

About Highlands Performing Arts Center

Highlands Performing Arts Center is dedicated to enriching our communities’ cultural and artistic life through diverse, world-class performances, educational programs, and community engagement. We aim to inspire creativity, foster connections, and celebrate the transformative power of the arts. For more information, visit www.highlandsperformingarts.com.

Media Contact

Jeanne Dowdle
jeannedowdle411@gmail.com
+1 813-230-2803

Global wellness educator and relationship coach Kim Anami has officially opened enrollment for her flagship 10-week online program. This course, also known as her seasonal salon, offers a unique and holistic approach to women’s health, self-connection, and personal empowerment.

With a worldwide following and over three decades of teaching experience, Kim Anami is widely recognized for her integrative work rooted in ancient traditions such as Taoism and tantra, as well as modern modalities including transpersonal psychology and somatic therapy. Her mission centers on helping women and men restore their physical vitality and emotional confidence through practices that foster deep self-awareness and wellness. Her upcoming course is one of Kim Anami’s signature courses tailored toward women and feminine empowerment. 

"Many of the women who come to my programs are looking for ways to reconnect with themselves, overcome physical challenges, or simply reclaim a part of their lives they’ve been disconnected from," said Anami. "This course is about creating a safe, empowering space to do exactly that."

The "How to Be a Well-Fed Woman" salon includes:

• Tools to improve libido and support hormonal balance
• Techniques to help reduce common reproductive health symptoms
• Daily routines and meditations to support nervous system regulation
• Supportive community forums and expert-led Q&As

The program is designed to be inclusive, accessible, and rooted in science-backed principles blended with time-tested holistic traditions. Anami emphasizes that the tools taught in the course are not just about physical well-being—they also support emotional healing, increased confidence, and greater self-trust.

Many students join the program seeking alternatives to conventional approaches for addressing issues like low libido, discomfort, or hormonal changes. In sharing stories of transformation, Anami has highlighted numerous examples of women who have improved not only their physical wellness but their overall sense of joy and empowerment.

In past iterations of the salon, participants have reported improvements in symptoms related to pelvic tension, menstruation, and mood regulation. Some have also experienced greater ease and confidence in their personal relationships, citing the course as a pivotal step in their self-growth.

Anami’s commitment to helping women become more informed and in tune with their own bodies continues to resonate with audiences across the globe. Her teachings, while rooted in traditionally taboo subjects, are presented with respect, professionalism, and a focus on education and self-agency.

Enrollment is now open for her next signature session with limited spots available. To learn more or register, visit: kimanami.com/about/

About Kim Anami

Kim Anami is a world-renowned holistic health and relationship expert, known for her unconventional yet deeply grounded approach to wellness and personal growth. Through global retreats, best selling programs, and her widely followed podcast "Orgasmic Enlightenment," Anami has empowered thousands to tap into their vitality, creativity, and inner strength. For more information, kimanami.com.

Media Contact

Kim Anami
media@kimanami.com

As part of its mission to raise standards and ensure the long-term success of the kava industry, the Kava Coalition released its inaugural quarterly market survey report, "Q1 2025 Quarterly Report on Commercially Available Kava Products," this week. This initiative marks an important step toward self-regulation and reflects the industry’s commitment to transparency, consumer confidence, and product quality.

This is the first report of 2025, with additional assessments planned throughout the year. By continuing these market evaluations, the Kava Coalition aims to support a strong, responsible, and sustainable kava industry—one that protects consumers, producers, and vendors alike from the potential consequences of poor-quality products entering the market.

A total of 41 commercial kava products from 17 different brands were analyzed by Cambium Analytica, an independent laboratory accredited to international standards. Each product was tested for key active kavalactones as well as important safety parameters, including heavy metals, microbial content, moisture, pesticide residues, and mycotoxins. All products tested showed the chemical profile of authentic noble kava, known for its desirable effects and the presence of kavain and dihydrokavain.

“The Kava Coalition and the kava industry at large are working together to build a marketplace that consumers can trust,” said Douglas La Rose, executive director of the Kava Coalition. “This report represents a milestone in our effort to create a culture of quality, accountability, and shared responsibility across the value chain—from farm to shell.”

The Kava Coalition will continue to lead efforts that promote best practices across the supply chain and align with international standards such as the Harmonized Multinational Kava Standard. Ongoing testing, education, and collaboration will be central to protecting the integrity of kava and supporting the communities who depend on it.

The Kava Coalition remains firmly committed to advancing product quality and consumer protection. It continues to support compliance with the Harmonized Multinational Kava Standard and promotes best practices throughout the kava supply chain. Kava Coalition’s harmonized standards are based on international guidelines related to other botanicals and can be viewed in this standards document.

To review the "Q1 2025 Quarterly Report on Commercially Available Kava Products," read the full report.

About Kava Coalition

Kava Coalition is an alliance of kava consumers, experts, and industry leaders committed to advancing kava education, advocacy, and choice. The Kava Coalition aims to empower informed decisions about kava, promoting responsible consumption while understanding the importance of preserving kava’s history and cultural heritage. For more information, visit kavacoalition.org.

Media Contact

Patrick George
info@kavacoalition.org
+1 916-202-1982

Sibeiho is proud to announce that its signature condiment, AF Chili Chunka Sambal, has been named a winner in the 15 Years of Good Food Awards, a special anniversary edition celebrating standout crafters who have shaped the landscape of America’s good food movement.

AF Chili Chunka Sambal is a bold, tangy, and spicy sambal inspired by a cherished Singaporean family recipe. Created by Sibeiho and named after “Auntie Feathers,” who made a similar chili sauce to serve with her Hainanese chicken rice and kueh pie tee, this tart and fiery sambal is perfect for pairing with BBQ, fried foods, or any dish that craves an extra kick. Handcrafted in small batches in Portland, Oregon, it’s made with locally grown peppers and all-natural ingredients—free from MSG, artificial colors, and preservatives. It reflects Sibeiho's deep commitment to authentic flavor, responsible sourcing, and rich cultural storytelling.

“It’s an incredible honor to have our sambal recognized as part of the Good Food Awards' 15-year legacy,” said Holly Ong, co-founder and chief maker at Sibeiho. “This award celebrates the immigrant flavors of multicultural Singapore that we’ve lovingly crafted here in Portland, Oregon. We’re proud to share a taste of our heritage with food lovers across the United States.”

This year’s awards marked the first-ever Community Choice edition of the Good Food Awards, with more than 8,000 votes cast by the public. Sibeiho joins just 55 winners across 18 categories selected for their excellence in taste, ethical sourcing, and community impact. Winners were announced at the Good Food Mercantile in New York City.

“For 15 years, the Good Food Foundation has supported crafters who are making a positive impact on our country’s food system,” said Nora Weiser, executive director of the Good Food Foundation. “It’s exciting to see how their passion, commitment, and delicious products continue to fuel the good food movement.”

Since 2011, the Good Food Awards has honored makers who embody craftsmanship, flavor, and sustainability. Products are judged through blind tastings and must meet rigorous sourcing and transparency standards. This anniversary edition not only celebrates current excellence but also the long-lasting contributions these winners have made to America’s culinary culture.

View the full list of 2025 winners: goodfoodfdn.org/awards/winners/2025/

The entry period for the 2026 Good Food Awards opens July 7, 2025. Learn more: goodfoodfdn.org/awards/

About Sibeiho

Based in Portland, Sibeiho is an award-winning Singaporean food startup co-founded by Holly Ong and Pat Lau. The Sibeiho brand brings the tastes, sights and textures of Singapore — with Chinese, Malay, Indian and Nonya culinary influences — through three signature ready-to-enjoy sambal chili sauces: Boomz Sambal, OMG! Sambal® and AF Chili Chunka Sambal. Made in small batches using all-natural, locally sourced ingredients, the sambals provide a versatile way to add bold umami flavor to everyday meals, either as a condiment or as an ingredient in various recipes.

Sibeiho sambals are available at the Portland Farmers Market, on the company’s website, and in select specialty stores including New Seasons, Market of Choice and Whole Foods Market.

For more information, visit sibeiho.com.

About Good Food Foundation

Good Food Foundation (GFF) is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization that champions the broad and diverse community of food crafters, grocers, chefs, food writers, activists, and passionate food-lovers. Since 2011, initiatives like its Good Food Awards and Good Food Mercantiles have been celebrating food that is both delicious and responsibly produced. GFF promotes the values of craftsmanship, sustainability, and social responsibility, connecting and elevating those committed to creating a better food system for all.

To learn more, visit goodfoodfdn.org.

Media Contact

Holly Ong
hello@sibeiho.com

In a strategic move to improve patient outcomes in breast cancer, Affidea, a leading pan-European provider of community-based polyclinics, specialist services and advanced diagnostics, is proud to announce that it has selected b-rayZ, a leader in AI-powered breast imaging solutions, as its preferred AI partner for breast imaging.

Breast cancer diagnostics often face fragmentation, with critical information scattered across different modalities and specialists. This can slow down decision-making and delay life-saving treatments. b-rayZ’s AI-powered platform is designed to eliminate these gaps, ensuring a seamless diagnostic pathway that enhances both clinical precision and therapeutic options for women. By choosing b-rayZ as its AI partner, Affidea is taking a decisive step towards making precision medicine a reality, one diagnosis at a time.

The b-rayZ solution is already in use in Affidea Switzerland, at Affidea’s Centre of Excellence in Breast Cancer, Brust Zentrum Zurich, as well as at Affidea Givision, Site Hôpital Daler. The technology has also been successfully implemented across other markets such as Affidea Lithuania and Affidea Spain, with further expansions planned in other Affidea countries offering breast imaging services. These early installations reflect the growing momentum and confidence in b-rayZ’s ability to standardise and elevate diagnostic quality across diverse clinical environments. By implementing this innovative AI solution, Affidea is reinforcing its commitment to early detection and improved outcomes in breast cancer across Europe.

Affidea has also joined b-rayZ as a strategic investor in their Series A extension equity funding round. This investment marks a significant milestone in b-rayZ’s journey and validates their vision and growth strategy. The partnership strengthens b-rayZ’s position in the industry and opens up valuable collaboration opportunities to accelerate product development, expand into new markets, and enhance customer offerings.

Cristina Rossi, CEO and founder of b-rayZ, stated:

“At b-rayZ, we are deeply committed to preserving women’s health. Every woman’s journey through breast cancer diagnosis is unique, and our AI solutions are designed to provide the highest level of diagnostic accuracy and efficiency, tailored to each one’s needs. Being selected by Affidea as their preferred AI partner is a testament to our shared vision of transforming breast cancer diagnostics. Affidea’s investment in our Series A extension further validates this alignment and fuels our ambition to scale. Through this strategic partnership, we are combining our technological expertise with Affidea’s extensive clinical network to ensure that women across Europe receive faster, more precise, and more personalised breast imaging solutions.”

Dr. Charles Niehaus, deputy CEO of Affidea, highlighted the broader strategic impact of the partnership:

“This collaboration with b-rayZ represents more than just the adoption of AI. It is a strategic alliance aimed at redefining breast cancer diagnostics. Together, we plan to deepen our collaboration to  further develop the AI solutions, to empower radiologists, optimise clinical workflows, and improve patient care. This partnership — both strategic and financial — positions us in the right direction to accelerate innovation across our network. By integrating AI across our network, we are ensuring that women across Europe receive the most accurate and timely diagnoses possible, tailored to them, reinforcing our mission to set new standards in patient care.”

Dr. Alessandro Roncacci, SVP and chief medical officer at Affidea, added:

“Breast imaging is a highly specialised field that requires precision, experience, and the ability to interpret complex data. AI-powered solutions, like those developed by b-rayZ, are revolutionising breast cancer diagnostics by augmenting radiologists' expertise and ensuring greater consistency in detection. Through this partnership, we are integrating AI to enhance our sub-specialty breast imaging, improving diagnostic accuracy, and optimising personalised screening pathways. This marks a significant step forward in delivering earlier diagnoses, reducing variability in interpretations, and ultimately ensuring the best possible clinical outcomes for women across Europe.”

For media inquiries, please contact:

Oana Dumitroiu
Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communication, Affidea Group
oana.dumitroiu@affidea.com

Kevin Olbrich
Marketing Manager, b-rayZ
kevin.olbrich@b-rayz.ch

About Affidea Group

Affidea is a leading pan-European provider of specialist healthcare services, including cancer care, community-based polyclinics and advanced diagnostic imaging. Founded in 1991, the company operates over 410 centres across 15 countries, with more than 14 million patient visits every year. Due to its track record for patient safety, the company has become the most awarded diagnostic imaging provider in Europe by the European Society of Radiology (ESR), as over 90% of its centres are recognised on the Eurosafe Wall of Stars by the ESR. Affidea is majority-owned by Groupe Bruxelles Lambert (GBL), a leading investment holding company, focused on long-term value-creation with a stable and supportive family shareholder base. For more information, visit www.affidea.com.

About b-rayZ

The b-rayZ AI solution is part of an ever-growing multi-modality platform fully dedicated to breast cancer diagnostics. b-rayZ supports women throughout their diagnostic journey with a tailored ecosystem of solutions driven by clinical needs. With cutting-edge AI technology and years of clinical experience in breast imaging, b-rayZ offers a comprehensive yet easy-to-use solution that provides a comprehensive set of industry-leading AI modules. All of these modules are designed to meet the needs of medical professionals and support the daily work of both medical radiology assistants, radiologists and hospital managers. To learn more, visit b-rayz.com.

Media Contact

Oana Dumitroiu
oana.dumitroiu@affidea.com

Sandeep Choudhary, President of the India Chapter of environmental nonprofit Save Earth Mission, will present his analysis of the Air India Flight AI171 crash during the organization’s Global Vision Unveiling event on July 3, 2025, at GIFT City in Ahmedabad.

Sandeep Choudhary stated that he was able to draw conclusions about the AI171 incident within minutes of reviewing relevant information. He plans to share his perspective publicly at the upcoming event.

 “I have connected the dots and decoded what happened to Flight AI171,” said Sandeep Choudhary. “The findings raise important questions, and I will present them in full on July 3.”

The statement has drawn attention online through the hashtag #SandeepDecodedAI171, with users expressing interest in the planned disclosure.

Sandeep Choudhary is known for his work in large-scale environmental restoration campaigns. Save Earth Mission, the organization he leads in India, recently completed a mass tree plantation initiative that involved planting over 500,000 trees in one hour. The initiative used geotagging and tracking tools developed by the organization.

The Global Vision Unveiling will feature updates on Save Earth Mission’s progress toward its 2040 reforestation goal and presentations related to its carbon reduction strategy. Choudhary’s upcoming statement regarding Flight AI171 will be presented as part of the event’s broader agenda.

The event will be broadcast live via some of the leading news networks & It is expected to be observed by journalists, environmental researchers, aviation analysts, and members of the public.

Event Information

Event Name: Save Earth Mission – Global Vision Unveiling
Date: July 3, 2025
Location: GIFT City, Ahmedabad, India
Livestream: YouTube.com/SaveEarthMission
Hashtags: #SandeepDecodedAI171 #SaveEarthMission #AirIndia #OneTreeOneWorld #EkPedGlobalMission #EarthUnited

About Save Earth Mission

Save Earth Mission is a nonprofit organization focused on global reforestation, environmental awareness, and carbon offset technologies. The group aims to plant 30 billion trees by 2040 and supports climate action through education, digital innovation, and mass mobilization campaigns. For more information, visit saveearthmission.org.

Media Contact

Dan Smith
yourprwire@gmail.com

More than a dozen Austin-area families say a Texas limestone quarry has blanketed their neighborhood in harmful dust, nonstop noise, and house-shaking vibrations. Their lawsuit, filed in June 2023, goes before a Williamson County jury on August 4, 2025 (CAUSE NO. 23-0911-C368).

“These families haven’t had a full day of peace in years. The quarries operate from dawn to dusk, nearly seven days a week. Windows have cracked, homes are covered in dust, and the constant noise has made it impossible for residents to enjoy their property,” attorney Drew Bivona of Bivona Law Firm said.

Key Allegations

• Operators JB Stone and Espinoza Stone allegedly violated Texas mining regulations, ignored 25-foot vegetation buffer requirements, and failed to implement best management practices.
• Plaintiffs report quarry dust complaints, continuous vibrations, and severe quarry property damage.
• Some families live just 126 feet from the quarry’s edge, where heavy equipment has reportedly operated overnight and during holidays.
• The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) have cited the quarry companies multiple times for regulatory violations.

Plaintiffs are seeking more than $1 million in damages.

“This is about protecting people who played by the rules, from corporations who refuse to do the same. We’re taking this to trial because they’ve ignored every effort to resolve this outside of it,” Bivona said.

The trial will begin in Williamson County District Court on August 4, 2025.

Common Questions About Texas Quarry Violations

Q: Is limestone quarry dust dangerous?

A: Yes, limestone quarry dust can be harmful. Many quarry dust complaints lead to environmental nuisance lawsuits when operators fail to follow TCEQ quarry regulations.

Q: Can a quarry cause vibration damage to my home?

A: Yes. Vibrations from blasting and equipment at a Texas limestone quarry can crack walls, damage foundations, and break windows. This type of quarry property damage is often used as evidence in residential quarry lawsuits across Texas.

Q: Can a quarry near my home lower my property value?

A: Yes. Quarry operations can reduce home value. Constant quarry noise pollution, dust buildup, and truck traffic may deter buyers. Many homeowners include lost value in quarry lawsuits in Texas when operators violate mining regulations.

Q: What should I do if a Texas limestone quarry is damaging my home, causing excessive noise or affecting my quality of life?

A: Begin by documenting everything. Take photos or video of quarry dust buildup, cracked foundations, or visible property damage. Keep a daily log of vibrations, noise levels, and any health symptoms. Then, speak with an attorney who handles environmental nuisance lawsuits and understands property rights near Texas quarries.

Q: Is it legal for a Texas limestone quarry to operate near a residential neighborhood?

A: Yes, but only if the operator follows all Texas mining regulations. When a quarry near a residential neighborhood ignores buffer zones, runs heavy equipment during unreasonable hours, or allows hazardous dust and vibration to escape, those actions can amount to TCEQ quarry violations and other legal breaches.

Q: Can I sue a Texas quarry for damaging my property or making my home unlivable?

A: Yes. If a quarry is causing quarry dust complaints, constant noise, or vibration damage to your home foundation, you may have grounds for a residential quarry lawsuit or environmental nuisance lawsuit. These cases often involve documented quarry violations in Texas.

Q: What kind of evidence do I need to take legal action against a Texas limestone quarry?

A: To support a Texas quarry lawsuit, collect photos of quarry dust complaints, visible quarry property damage, and audio or video recordings of quarry noise pollution. Expert inspections, daily logs, and complaints filed with TCEQ or MSHA all help strengthen your case.

Q: How common are violations by Texas quarry operators?

A: While some operators follow regulations, many Texas limestone quarry companies have a history of TCEQ quarry violations. Common problems include missing vegetation buffers, illegal hours of operation, and repeated safety violations—often cited in residential quarry lawsuits and environmental nuisance lawsuits across Texas.

About Bivona Law

Bivona Law Firm is a litigation-focused firm that advocates for individuals and communities harmed by corporate negligence and institutional misconduct, bringing justice to a broad range of civil matters. With a successful record of advocacy and compassionate counsel, Bivona Law stands at the forefront of holding powerful entities accountable. For more information, visit www.bivonalaw.com.

Disclaimer

In some jurisdictions, this press release may be considered attorney advertising.

Media Contact

Amanda Orr
amanda@orrstrategygroup.com

Content Formula, a leading Microsoft 365 consultancy and digital workplace specialist, today announces the availability of Xoralia, its advanced policy and document management solution, in Microsoft AppSource, the online cloud marketplace providing tailored line-of-business solutions. Organisations can now leverage Xoralia to streamline policy management, automate compliance, and improve document control directly within their Microsoft 365 and SharePoint environments.

Addressing modern policy management challenges

Many organisations face significant challenges when managing policies and procedures within Microsoft SharePoint. Common issues include over-reliance on folders, lack of automation in policy lifecycles, inadequate version control, and inconsistent processes across departments. Xoralia was developed to address these pain points, offering a robust, user-friendly solution that transforms how policies are created, approved, distributed, and tracked.

Comprehensive features for compliance-driven sectors

Xoralia is purpose-built for organisations in highly regulated industries such as financial services, healthcare, and the charity sector, where compliance and risk management are paramount. Key features include:

• Automated policy lifecycle: Xoralia automates every stage of policy management, from drafting and approval to distribution and attestation, reducing manual effort and minimising risk.
• Centralised control: Policies are managed in a single, secure environment, ensuring version control, audit trails, and easy access for all staff.
• Configurable workflows: Advanced workflows support complex approval processes, recurring reviews, and targeted notifications, all tailored to organisational needs.
• Attestation and reporting: Built-in dashboards provide real-time visibility into staff acknowledgements and compliance status, simplifying audits and regulatory reporting.
• Seamless SharePoint integration: Xoralia enhances existing Microsoft 365 infrastructure, enabling organisations to maximise their investment in SharePoint without the need for separate systems.

Empowering IT and compliance leaders

Xoralia is designed to meet the needs of both IT departments and compliance teams. IT leaders benefit from rapid deployment, secure integration, and reduced administrative overhead, while compliance managers gain powerful tools for tracking, reporting, and ensuring that policies reach the right people at the right time.

Supporting organisational growth and change

With flexible licensing and scalable features, Xoralia is suitable for organisations of all sizes, from small charities to mid-sized financial institutions. The platform supports operational change, helps teams prepare for audits, and provides a future-proof solution as organisations grow or undergo digital transformation.

Commitment to ease of use and cost-effectiveness

Recognising the importance of user experience, Xoralia offers an intuitive interface that requires minimal training for staff. Its cost-effective pricing model makes enterprise-grade compliance accessible to organisations with limited budgets, particularly in the non-profit and charity sectors.

“Xoralia is built for organisations that need to manage risk, demonstrate compliance, and empower their teams, all within the trusted Microsoft 365 ecosystem,” said Dan Hawtrey, founder and CEO of Content Formula. “Our solution delivers automation, transparency, and ease of use, enabling customers to meet regulatory demands and drive operational excellence.”

“Microsoft AppSource welcomes Xoralia, which joins a cloud marketplace landscape offering flexibility and economic value while transacting tens of billions of pounds a year in revenues,” said Jason Graefe, corporate vice president, WW ISV and Digital Natives team at Microsoft. “Thanks to AppSource and line-of-business solutions from trusted partners like Content Formula, customers can do more with less by increasing efficiency, buying confidently, and spending smarter.”

About Content Formula

Content Formula is a leading Microsoft 365 consultancy specialising in digital workplace and compliance solutions. Since 2005, Content Formula has helped organisations transform policy management, intranets, and business processes with innovative technology and deep Microsoft expertise. For more information, visit contentformula.com.

About Xoralia

Developed by Content Formula, Xoralia is an advanced policy and document management solution that draws on years of experience in developing systems that help clients manage communications, critical information and key processes. Our mission is to become the leading management system for controlled documents and mission-critical content. For more information, visit xoralia.com.

Media Contact

Dan Hawtrey
hello@contentformula.com
+44 02 045 3434

iFLYTEK has announced the launch of the AINOTE Air 2, a new AI-powered tablet aimed at enhancing productivity for professionals. Targeting users involved in multilingual meetings, detailed research, and critical documentation, the device combines advanced artificial intelligence capabilities with high-quality hardware to support improved digital productivity.

At only 230 grams and 5 mm thin, the Air 2 offers professionals unparalleled portability without sacrificing power. Featuring an 8.2-inch E Ink display with a crisp resolution of 1440×1920 pixels (293 PPI), it ensures a comfortable reading and writing experience ideal for sustained use, reducing eye strain significantly compared to conventional screens.

The Wacom stylus, boasting 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity, transforms note-taking and sketching into a natural, lag-free experience, eliminating the digital disruptions commonly experienced by professionals and academics.

With real-time transcription across 15 languages and translation in 10 languages, users can confidently navigate multilingual interactions, capturing clear, precise transcripts effortlessly. Its advanced quad-microphone setup and noise suppression allow professionals to be fully engaged in meetings without worrying about language barriers or missed details.

Users will particularly appreciate the Air 2's AI Meeting Summary feature, which transforms extensive recordings into concise, actionable summaries at a single touch. This dramatically simplifies tasks for legal, educational, and consulting professionals who regularly process large amounts of information.

Additionally, the synchronization between handwritten notes and audio recordings ensures users never miss critical details. Each pen stroke is timestamped, allowing easy and accurate review of important discussions—an indispensable tool for fast-paced environments like courtrooms and academic lectures.

The intuitive gesture recognition of the Air 2 significantly streamlines task management. Users simply mark words or phrases to instantly convert notes into organized tasks, eliminating the hassle of switching between different apps and enhancing productivity seamlessly.

The AINOTE Air 2 keeps its AI-driven toolkit refined and effective, featuring ChatGPT-enhanced functionalities including AI Meeting Summary, AI Search, and AI-assisted chat. Additional practical features include handwriting-to-text conversion in 83 languages, a built-in 5MP document scanning camera, and audiobook support, all delivered seamlessly through 4GB RAM, 32GB storage, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.0.

“AINOTE Air 2 encapsulates decades of iFLYTEK’s pioneering AI and natural language processing expertise, setting a new benchmark in professional productivity tools,” said an iFLYTEK spokesperson. “Our mission is to empower professionals with clarity and efficiency in their daily workflows.”

Available now for just $479 on iFLYTEK’s official store and $499 via Amazon, the AINOTE Air 2 is your gateway to enhanced productivity and clear, efficient communication. Don’t miss out—upgrade your workflow today and experience firsthand the transformative impact of smart technology.

For more information about the AINOTE Air 2, visit iFLYTEK’s official website.

About iFLYTEK

Founded in 1999, iFLYTEK Co., Ltd. is a publicly listed company in the Asia-Pacific region focused on intelligent speech and technology. In 2008, the company went public on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol 002230. For more information, visit www.iflytek.com.

Media Contact

Frank Fan
sdfan@iflytek.com

Nassau Street Partners has launched a new capital distribution program designed to bring curated strategic capital into mid-market deals from sourcing through close in under 120 days — signaling a major departure from the VC-first model that has long defined private markets.

The initiative, which integrates sector-specific investor mapping, faster prep cycles, and precision outreach, brings raise packages in front of several thousand investors in the space of only weeks.

This release comes as a growing number of companies raising $1 million to $50 million are abandoning the traditional venture pipeline and turning to strategic capital — family offices, operator-backed funds, and sector-aligned platforms — for speed, flexibility, and deeper alignment.

For years, venture capital defined the private market narrative: big checks, fast growth, and term sheets delivered over coffee. But in the post-ZIRP world, mid-market companies raising $1 million to $50 million are finding a different type of investor leading their rounds: strategic capital.

Family offices, small strategics, and non-institutional capital providers are quietly displacing traditional VCs in many mid-sized raises. The reason is not just market cyclicality. It’s structural.

Strategics Aren’t New — But Their Role Has Changed

Strategic capital traditionally referred to large corporate balance sheets chasing acquisitions. Today, that definition has evolved. The new “strategics” are smaller operating businesses, family-backed platforms, and high-net-worth groups with sector focus and hands-on operating DNA.

“These investors used to wait until a company had scale or synergies,” said Juan Moreno, managing partner at Nassau Street Partners. “Now, they’re showing up earlier, not because they want control, but because they want alignment.”

The alignment matters. Strategics bring more than capital. They bring channels, contracts, integration opportunities, and long-term positioning that pure financial players often can't. For companies seeking steadier, longer-term growth relative to traditional VCs, that's a better fit.

The Mid-Market Isn’t Built for Venture Logic

Companies raising $1 million to $50 million are too large for angels and too small or non-consensus for institutional growth funds. Many don’t fit the VC mold: they may be capital-intensive, slower-growing, or not reliant on winner-take-all dynamics. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t strong businesses.

“These are real companies with customers, revenue, and product-market fit,” said Saul Friend, director at Nassau Street Partners. “But when they approach traditional VCs, the answer is often, ‘Interesting, but not for us.’”

Venture capital is structurally designed to seek out hyper-growth, category-defining bets that return 100x. Mid-market operators seeking $8 million to expand distribution or acquire a competitor often don’t check that box.

That’s where strategic capital steps in.

Faster Closes, Higher Certainty, Longer Horizon

Strategic investors don't rely on Monday morning partner meetings. They move faster, underwrite from conviction, and are more flexible on structure. In recent transactions, Nassau Street Partners has seen term sheets land in under 30 days from first contact, with far less volatility than traditional VC processes.

More importantly, strategic capital tends to be patient. Unlike venture funds that need to return capital on a fixed timeline, family offices and platform strategics often hold assets indefinitely or recycle capital internally.

A Distribution Shift Driving the Trend

Another major factor: access. Traditional venture firms are increasingly filtered, concentrated, and reactive. A mid-market raise reaching 15–20 partners via intros isn’t enough. Distribution matters.

Nassau’s model reflects this shift. The firm distributes high-quality materials to thousands of pre-mapped investors, family offices, strategics, and non-institutional allocators, across the U.S., Europe, Middle East and Asia. It focuses less on “warm intros” and more on targeted velocity.

“The best capital doesn’t just show up. You have to reach it, and you have to speak its language,” said Juan Moreno.

That means tighter positioning, less pitch theater, and faster decision loops. Founders who engage early and frame their business with strategic ROI in mind consistently get more traction than those waiting for traditional VCs to circle back.

Case in Point

Recent transactions illustrate this trend clearly:

• A $25 million raise for a deep-tech venture fund was closed primarily with family offices, not institutional LPs.
• A $12 million round for a first-time medtech fund was placed via VCs and strategic operators with domain knowledge, despite having no legacy track record.
• A $5 million equity raise for a Middle Eastern EV charging network attracted strategic infrastructure capital, not clean-tech VCs.

None of these would have fit neatly into a traditional VC pipeline. All found stronger alignment through distributed strategic capital.

The Strategic Capital Advantage

Strategics bring more than money. They bring context. They understand operating constraints, capital intensity, regulatory risk, and long-term margins. They aren’t chasing unicorns — they’re building real businesses.

And in a market where capital is still abundant but increasingly fragmented, founders need more than a good pitch. They need a distribution strategy that reaches the right investors, not just the loudest ones.

Nassau Street Partners is built around that belief.

About Nassau Street Partners

Nassau Street Partners is a modern capital advisory firm that helps companies and sponsors raise $1 million to $50 million from global family offices, strategic investors, and high-net-worth individuals. Based on Wall Street and operating internationally, Nassau delivers institutional-grade execution at startup speed, combining targeted outreach with capital markets expertise to drive outcomes that traditional firms can't. For more information, visit www.nassaustreetpartners.com.

Disclaimer

The information contained herein is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to influence any investment decision or be a recommendation for any investment, service, product, or other advice of any kind, and shall not constitute or imply an offer of any kind. Securities offered through Britehorn Securities, a registered broker-dealer (member FINRA / SIPC) www.britehornsecurities.com 1401 Lawrence St, Suite 1600, Denver, CO 80202, USA. Britehorn Securities and Nassau Street Partners are not affiliated entities. View Britehorn on BrokerCheck.

Nassau Street Partners provides corporate and transaction advisory services exclusively to companies and institutional clients. It does not provide personalized investment advice to retail investors and is not registered as an investment adviser or broker-dealer.  Services may not be available in all jurisdictions and are subject to applicable laws and regulatory approvals.  Neither the SEC nor any federal or state securities commission or regulatory authority has recommended or approved any investment or the accuracy or completeness of any of the information or materials provided herein or through any references/links herein. There can be no assurance that any valuations provided by issuers are accurate or in agreement with market or industry valuations. We do not make any representations or warranties as to the accuracy of such information.

Media Contact

Juan Moreno
legal@nassaustreetpartners.com

T-RIZE, a prominent creator of blockchain-powered AI infrastructure, has officially joined the Flower Pilot Program, a three-month project to scale federated learning in real-world settings.

The startup will offer a production-grade blueprint that allows institutions to train transformer models on sensitive rental data while maintaining privacy, auditability, and regulatory compliance.

The initiative, which is supported by Flower's globally known federated AI ecosystem, allows T-RIZE to demonstrate the possibilities of its Rizemind framework, an open-source toolkit that incorporates blockchain verification and economic coordination into distributed AI processes.

A Real-World Approach to Secure and Decentralized AI

T-RIZE's plan will concentrate on tabular data applications like as KYC, underwriting, and due diligence—all areas where data sensitivity and accuracy are critical. The solution combines Flower's federated training infrastructure with Rizemind's on-chain accountability, utilizing blockchain to record training outcomes and assure verifiability among participants.

"This blueprint isn't just theoretical—it's built for operational teams," said Madani Boukalba, CEO of T-RIZE Group. "We're bridging AI and blockchain not for hype, but to solve real enterprise problems, starting with due diligence workflows where privacy and proof matter equally."

The blueprint includes model code on GitHub, Docker images for deployment, schema validation tools, and step-by-step setup and monitoring instructions. It uses encryption, role-based access, and network limitations to meet high security standards.

Token Utility Provides Transparent Training

A crucial innovation is the blueprint's usage of the $RIZE token, T-RIZE's native digital asset. The coin acts as a unit of account for compute utilization, compensates contributors for model training, and stores results on the Rizenet blockchain. This adds economic coordination to AI activities while also providing transparent performance tracking.

According to the business, this strategy lowers the cost of inter-institutional collaboration, eliminates the need for centralized audits, and opens up new income prospects for data providers and validators.

The blueprint's release is carefully timed: as global organizations face AI compliance demands, federated learning solutions that combine privacy and accountability are becoming not just desirable—but also necessary.

A Strategic Collaboration with Broad-Reaching Impact

The Flower ecosystem, which is already being trusted by Mozilla, Owkin, Banking Circle, and MIT, serves as an excellent basis for this collaborative effort. T-RIZE's contribution adds a Web3-native layer of verifiability to federated learning, enabling traceable outcomes and trustless coordination.

Beyond the pilot, T-RIZE intends to expand Rizemind with zero-knowledge machine learning (zkML), multi-party computing (MPC), and dynamic noise injection—techniques designed to improve privacy while meeting future legal needs.

"AI regulation is coming fast, and enterprises need infrastructure that's not just compliant—but provable," Madani said. 

Availability and Participation

The blueprint will be provided at the end of the three-month Flower Pilot Program, with early access accessible to universities using rental datasets or compliance-heavy tabular data. Interested parties are encouraged to contact T-RIZE directly or stay updated via Flower's official channels.

About T-RIZE

T-RIZE is a Montreal-based AI and blockchain company focused on privacy-preserving computation and tokenized machine learning. Backed by research at École de Technologie Supérieure (ETS), T-RIZE enables enterprises to unlock the value of sensitive data through decentralized, verifiable AI systems. For more information, visit rizenet.io.

About Flower

Flower, the top open-source federated AI platform, allows safe, decentralized model training and assessment. Flower offers collaborative AI without sacrificing data protection or governance, trusted by researchers and organizations worldwide. To learn more, visit flower.ai.

Media Contact

T-RIZE Communications
press@t-rize.io

ugee, a leading digital hardware developer and trailblazer in creative technologies, is now stepping into the audio world with the debut of FreSound Inspiration Open Earbuds. Staying true to its mission of escorting creative expression, ugee keeps close connections with artists to explore more possibilities. This move marks another new chapter for ugee, empowering creatives by merging inspiration with technology to deliver the exclusive experience tailored for creative community.

Comfy Without Pressure Over Time

For those creatives, wearing audio devices for an extended time is pretty common. From this, ugee stay uncompromising to pursue the comfort. Crafted from skin-friendly liquid silicone, the earbuds naturally fit ears, cradling them without feeling like they’re in the way. Weighing a mere 8.7 grams, it ensures that even during long listening sessions, one will barely notice them but the gentlest embrace. Whether immersed in creative tasks, engaged in a rigorous workout, or just moving around the city, these earbuds deliver lasting comfort and lingering aesthetic that reflects ugee’s artistic touch.

Safe With Sound Around Ears

FreSound stands out from the crowded market with its open-ear design. Unlike in-ear and over-ear devices, this feature lets outside sounds mix naturally with your favorite tunes, keeping you connected with your surroundings without sacrificing audio immersion. Especially for those who lead an dynamic, on-the-go lifestyle, the open-ear concept ensures that while every beat inspires you, safety remains paramount.

Expertly Tuned for Pure Audio and Art

True to ugee’s storied legacy of precision and creativity, the FreSound Inspiration Open Earbuds offer an exclusive HiFi experience expertly tuned by a dedicated team of audio specialists. Through the integration of a bespoke frequency response curve and advanced sound balance technology, these earbuds capture every nuance of your picked tracks — from the softest piano keys to the bold moments in a pop song, ensuring that the music not only fills your ears but also resonates with your very soul. Empowered by the 12 mm biological diaphragm driver unit, FreSound breathes life into soundscapes, creating more dynamic and lifelike sound.

FreSound Inspiration Open Earbuds are far more than just another audio gadget — they are a bold leap forward for ugee. By marrying the unmatched comfort with latest open-ear design and custom-built HiFi sound, these earbuds deliver an experience that is as reassuring as it is inspiring. With FreSound, ugee warmly welcome every creative spirit to join in on a new era where arts meet sounds, coming together to spark boundless inspiration.

About ugee

Founded in 1998, ugee is one of China’s leading digital hardware and software developers, operating under the Hanvon Ugee Group. As a national high-tech enterprise with independent R&D and manufacturing capabilities, ugee has pioneered advanced digital input technologies—spanning drawing tablets, pen displays, styluses, e‑notebooks, and related accessories—with a presence in over 30 countries and regions.

With a user-centered focus and a spirit of continual innovation, ugee’s product lineup supports digital drawing, e‑signing, note‑taking, AI‑enabled education, and more. Guided by the tagline “Fun Finds U in ugee,” the company aims to make digital creativity intuitive and accessible, helping users unlock new possibilities in life and work.

For more information, visit www.ugee.com.

Media Contact

Sanys Cheng
marketing@fresound.com

SKYX Platforms Corp. (NASDAQ:SKYX) (“SKYX” or the “Company”), a highly disruptive smart home platform technology company with more than 97 issued and pending patents globally, today provided a comprehensive corporate update ahead of several key milestones. The Company also operates a growing portfolio of over 60 lighting and home décor e-commerce sites, reinforcing its mission to make homes and buildings smart, safe, and advanced as the new standard.

SKYX announced that it will officially be added to the Russell 2000 Index following the market close on June 27, 2025. This inclusion represents a significant milestone and reinforces the Company’s visibility among institutional investors and the broader financial community.

In parallel, SKYX revealed its central role in enabling a transformative $3 billion mixed-use Smart Urban City project in Miami’s Little River District. As part of this initiative, SKYX will deploy over 500,000 units of its advanced plug & play smart home technologies, including its AI-powered smart ecosystem, across the entire 63-acre development. The project will include more than 5,700 condos and apartments, a significant allocation for workforce and affordable housing, over 350,000 square feet of retail space, 1.5 million square feet of green walkways, parks, bike paths, shuttle lanes, and a $35 million Tri-Rail station. World-renowned architectural firm Arquitectonica is leading the project’s design, while development is spearheaded by SG Holdings—a joint venture between the Swerdlow Group, SJM Partners, and Alben Duffie, each with a legacy of major urban developments.

Financially, SKYX continues to gain strong backing from U.S. and international manufacturers in support of its large-scale product deployments. This support underscores investor confidence in the scalability and market demand for SKYX’s smart home innovations. As of March 31, 2025, SKYX reported $35 million in cash, sufficient to execute its near-term strategic goals and achieve cash-flow positivity in 2025. In the first quarter of 2025, the Company generated record revenues of $20.1 million, up from $18.9 million in the same period the previous year, while also reducing general and administrative expenses by 17%, from $7.9 million to $6.6 million. SKYX also improved its gross margins and gross profit sequentially.

Anticipating strong seasonal demand, SKYX is preparing for a Q3 launch of its disruptive All-In-One Smart Turbo Heater & Ceiling Fan, with manufacturing already underway through long-term partners. The Company will launch two models of the patented product, targeting the multi-billion-dollar ceiling fan and space heater market. SKYX expects its products to be in 30,000 U.S. and Canadian homes by the end of the second quarter of 2025, with tens of thousands more to follow in the second half of the year.

To further support its growth, SKYX secured $15 million in preferred stock investments at $2 per share from strategic investors led by The Shaner Group, a major global Marriott Hotels chain owner. The round also saw significant participation from company insiders, including President Steve Schmidt and co-CEOs Lenny Sokolow and John Campi, signaling strong internal confidence in the Company’s vision and trajectory.

In a major manufacturing development, SKYX announced a strategic U.S. partnership with Profab Electronics, a premier electronic contract manufacturer based in Pompano Beach, Florida. This collaboration complements the Company’s manufacturing operations across Vietnam, Taiwan, China, and Cambodia, strengthening SKYX’s commitment to building a resilient and efficient supply chain.

SKYX continues to pursue national safety standardization of its ceiling outlet and receptacle technology. Its Safety Code Standardization Team, led by Mark Earley (former head of the National Electrical Code) and Eric Jacobson (former president and CEO of the American Lighting Association), is now backed by a prominent new leader from a key government safety organization. SKYX has already secured ANSI/NEMA approval and has been voted into 10 segments of the NEC Code Book. The Company expects that its technology, once the full range of product variations is complete, will be recommended by insurance companies due to its potential to reduce fires, ladder falls, and electrocutions.

SKYX continues to build recurring revenue streams through a “Razor & Blades” business model. The Company’s ceiling electrical outlet (Razor) serves as the foundation for a range of plug & play smart products (Blades), including lighting, fans, recessed lights, emergency fixtures, chandeliers, and more. The Company’s technology enables high-rise buildings and hotels to complete installations in days rather than months, providing an efficient and scalable solution for large-scale construction projects.

With an addressable market of approximately $500 billion in the U.S. and over 4.2 billion ceiling applications, SKYX is expanding both in the retail and professional segments. The Company generates revenue through product sales, licensing, royalties, subscriptions, monitoring, and global country rights. In addition to leveraging its 60+ e-commerce platforms, SKYX collaborates with major retailers including Home Depot and Wayfair to distribute its full suite of advanced and smart plug & play products.

Strategic partnerships also continue to accelerate SKYX’s market reach. These include collaborations with leading lighting manufacturers such as Kichler, Quoizel, EGLO, and Ruee, as well as integration into premium homes built by Cavco Homes, a top U.S. prefabricated home builder. SKYX’s technology will be installed across three luxury Forte Developments in Florida, totaling over 12,000 products across more than 400 units. Additionally, a 1,000-unit mixed-use project by Jeremiah Baron Companies will incorporate SKYX’s technologies, with initial deliveries to 140 units and more throughout the construction cycle.

To support distribution, SKYX has entered a strategic agreement with JIT Electrical Supply, a leading builder supplier that has served over 100,000 U.S. homes. JIT will distribute SKYX’s lighting and smart products beginning in early 2025.

In a key leadership move, SKYX welcomed Huey Long, former Amazon e-commerce director and executive at Walmart and Ashley Furniture, as the new head of its e-commerce division. Long will work closely with SKYX’s existing team to expand market penetration across its digital platforms and leading North American e-commerce channels.

About SKYX Platforms Corp.

As electricity is a standard in every home and building, our mission is to make homes and buildings become safe-advanced and smart as the new standard. SKYX has a series of highly disruptive advanced-safe-smart platform technologies, with over 97 U.S. and global patents and patent pending applications. Additionally, the Company owns over 60 lighting and home decor websites for both retail and commercial segments. Our technologies place an emphasis on high quality and ease of use, while significantly enhancing both safety and lifestyle in homes and buildings. We believe that our products are a necessity in every room in both homes and other buildings in the U.S. and globally. For more information, please visit our website at www.skyplug.com or follow us on LinkedIn.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements made in this press release are not based on historical facts, but are forward-looking statements. These statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “aim,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “can,” “could,” “continue,” “estimate,” “expect,” “evaluate,” “forecast,” “guidance,” “intend,” “likely,” “may,” “might,” “objective,” “ongoing,” “outlook,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “probable,” “project,” “seek,” “should,” “target” “view,” “will,” or “would,” or the negative thereof or other variations thereon or comparable terminology, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. These statements reflect the Company’s reasonable judgment with respect to future events and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which have outcomes difficult to predict and may be outside our control, that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include statements relating to the Company’s ability to successfully launch, commercialize, develop additional features and achieve market acceptance of its products and technologies and integrate its products and technologies with third-party platforms or technologies; the Company’s efforts and ability to drive the adoption of its products and technologies as a standard feature, including their use in homes, hotels, offices and cruise ships; the Company’s ability to capture market share; the Company’s estimates of its potential addressable market and demand for its products and technologies; the Company’s ability to raise additional capital to support its operations as needed, which may not be available on acceptable terms or at all; the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern; the Company’s ability to execute on any sales and licensing or other strategic opportunities; the possibility that any of the Company’s products will become National Electrical Code (NEC)-code or otherwise code mandatory in any jurisdiction, or that any of the Company’s current or future products or technologies will be adopted by any state, country, or municipality, within any specific timeframe or at all; risks arising from mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures and other collaborations; the Company’s ability to attract and retain key executives and qualified personnel; guidance provided by management, which may differ from the Company’s actual operating results; the potential impact of unstable market and economic conditions on the Company’s business, financial condition, and stock price; and other risks and uncertainties described in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its periodic reports on Form 10-K and Form 10-Q. There can be no assurance as to any of the foregoing matters.

Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of this press release, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by U.S. federal securities laws.

Media Contact

Jeff Ramson
jramson@pcgadvisory.com

CoinsPaid, a licensed Estonian cryptocurrency payment platform, is expanding its services into the real estate sector, offering developers and agencies a secure, fast, and cost-effective way to accept cryptocurrency payments. As the future of real estate transactions increasingly involves cryptocurrency, CoinsPaid is at the forefront of this transition, enabling real estate businesses to meet the growing demand for alternative payment methods.

"The future of buying houses with crypto is here. The demand from investors to make payments with cryptocurrency is growing, and our goal is to make every transaction secure for both buyers and sellers. With this, we aim to set a new standard for transparent and efficient property transactions," says Max Krupyshev, CEO of CoinsPaid.

By providing an easy-to-use solution for processing crypto payments, CoinsPaid enables developers and real estate professionals to accept cryptocurrencies with instant conversion into fiat currencies. This ensures that both buyers and sellers experience an efficient, transparent, and secure transaction process from start to finish.

Key Features of CoinsPaid’s Real Estate Payment Solution

• Regulatory compliance: CoinsPaid adheres to strict AML and KYC regulations, ensuring that all crypto transactions are conducted securely and in compliance with global financial standards.
• Global reach for cross-border transactions: CoinsPaid supports over 20 cryptocurrencies and 40+ fiat currencies, enabling real estate professionals to seamlessly complete international transactions, expanding their market reach and facilitating global real estate deals in all the jurisdictions where cryptocurrency can be used as means of payment if agreed by sellers and buyers.
• Efficient transactions for buyers and sellers: CoinsPaid simplifies the payment process by offering for property owners and developers a Crypto Business Wallet. Buyers can pay with cryptocurrency, while sellers receive immediate fiat conversion, eliminating the complexities of traditional digital payments.
• Mitigating market volatility risks: CoinsPaid’s fast crypto-to-fiat conversion ensures sellers gain access to liquidity without exposure to crypto market fluctuations, providing a stable and secure transaction process.
• Transaction reporting: Transaction reporting provides comprehensive insights into every payment processed through the platform, ensuring transparency and accuracy for all real estate transactions. It delivers detailed data, including transaction IDs, timestamps, amounts (in both crypto and fiat), sender and receiver details, and transaction statuses. This feature enables real estate businesses to monitor payment activity in real-time.
• Transparent and competitive fee structure: CoinsPaid offers transparent pricing, ensuring that property owners and agencies can plan and manage their budgets. The fee of around 1% is competitive within the crypto payment space.
• Designed for every real estate business: No matter if you’re selling properties, managing transactions, or developing real estate projects — our crypto payment gateway can accommodate all your real estate payment needs.
• Supporting large deals: CoinsPaid’s infrastructure is designed to handle high-value transactions, making it ideal for large-scale property deals.
• A fully integrated support ecosystem: With over a decade of industry presence, CoinsPaid has built a robust support ecosystem for any business, regardless of their prior experience with cryptocurrency, meaning no need to be crypto experts to begin accepting crypto payments. The support system includes dedicated account managers, who translate business goals into scalable business strategies, and technical experts that support daily transaction oversight, issue resolution, and system improvements.

About CoinsPaid

CoinsPaid is an international crypto payments company, serving businesses across high-growth industries, including but not limited to real estate, consultancy, corporate services, e-commerce, and education. With a strong focus on security, compliance, and innovation, CoinsPaid is shaping the future of digital payments while promoting responsible crypto adoption. For more information, visit coinspaid.com.

To see our disclaimer statement, visit coinspaid.com/disclaimer-statement.

Media Contact

Support Team
info@coinspaid.com