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Trust & Will, the leading digital estate planning and settlement platform, is proud to announce a strategic investment from Erie Strategic Ventures, the venture capital arm of Erie Insurance (ERIE) in partnership with Touchdown Ventures.

This financing builds on previous investments, with more than $50 million raised since Trust & Will’s founding in 2017. The new capital will be used to further integrate Trust & Will's award-winning platform with leading financial institutions and insurance providers.  

“We are honored to partner with Erie Strategic Ventures and Touchdown Ventures to help more families leave a legacy,” said Cody Barbo, founder and CEO of Trust & Will. “With this strategic investment and ERIE’s reputation as a leading auto, home, business and life insurance company, we can bring our innovative digital solutions to people who may otherwise think they can’t afford or don’t need an estate plan.”

Nearly 60% of American adults do not have an estate plan. Trust & Will provides an easy and secure way to create estate plans and settle estates online, with the ability to customize legal documents that adhere to individual state and county guidelines. The fintech company recently achieved B Corporation certification, becoming the first in their industry to do so. 

“Trust & Will has made it easy and affordable for anyone to proactively get their estate in order and we’re pleased to partner with this leader in online estate planning and settlement,” said Keith Kennedy, senior vice president for Next Level Innovation at Erie Insurance. “Similar to the flexible and affordable life insurance that we offer through Erie Family Life, estate planning is an essential part of protecting your family and helping loved ones when they'll need it most.”

About Erie Strategic Ventures

Erie Strategic Ventures is the venture capital arm of Erie Insurance (ERIE), a Fortune 500 auto, home, business and life insurance company that generated $8.6 billion in direct written premium in 2022. Founded in 1925, ERIE is the nation’s 12th largest homeowners insurer, 12th largest automobile insurer and 13th largest commercial lines insurer based on direct premiums written. ERIE is rated A+ (Superior) by A.M. Best and has more than six million policies in force and a network of over 13,000 independent agents across 12 states and Washington D.C. Learn more about Erie Strategic Ventures at www.erieinsurance.com/ventures.

About Touchdown Ventures

Touchdown Ventures partners with corporations to manage their venture capital programs. Touchdown works closely with each corporation to help achieve the financial and strategic benefits from venture capital investments. The firm maintains offices in Los Angeles, Philadelphia, and San Francisco. More information on Touchdown can be found at www.touchdownvc.com.

About Trust & Will

Trust & Will is simplifying estate planning and settlement with attorney-approved, legally valid documents and processes designed to adhere to individual state guidelines. Since 2017, we've helped hundreds of thousands of Trust & Will members leave their legacy with an affordable way to create an estate plan or settle the estate of a loved one. Our platform uses bank-level encryption that protects customer data and complies with the highest security standards, including SOC 2 and HIPAA. Trust & Will is the official estate planning benefit provider for AARP members, along with several leading financial institutions, who all believe in our mission of helping every family leave their legacy. To learn more, visit trustandwill.com.

Trust & Will is an online service providing legal forms and information. Trust & Will is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice.

Media Contact

Danielle Nuzzo

631-807-7772

danielle@trustandwill.com

Siebert Williams Shank & Co. (SWS) announced the formation of a new Quantitative Solutions Group to be headed by Giles Nicholson, a public finance industry veteran who has developed and executed complex financing structures for major investment banking institutions. The addition highlights Siebert Williams Shank’s steadfast and growing commitment to expand its public finance practice in 2024.

Nicholson comes to SWS with over 34 years of experience in municipal finance, most recently as Head of the Quantitative Strategies Group at UBS. In that capacity, he coordinated the firm’s quantitative ideas generation and modeling techniques, which were integral to obtaining and executing lead managed transactions.

Based in Siebert Williams Shank’s New York office, the Nicholson-led group will coordinate ideas generation and execution across the entire public finance client base, with a focus on products and strategies that are tailored to specific client needs and market conditions.

With a team of five people reporting to him from offices across the country, Nicholson will target three major goals as the firm’s newest Managing Director and Head of the Quantitative Solutions Group: provide clients with the best ideas possible in turbulent market conditions; allow the firm to share best practices from a central repository; and enhance training and development opportunities for the firm’s junior bankers.

“I am delighted that Siebert Williams Shank continues to attract high quality talent to our growing firm,” said Suzanne Shank, President and CEO of Siebert Williams Shank. “Hiring Giles along with other senior and experienced hires over the last year demonstrates our deep commitment to public finance at a time when our competitors are laying off in droves or retrenching from the sector entirely.”

“We are eager to leverage Giles’ deep expertise and experience to provide our muni issuer clients with the best and brightest ideas to achieve their financial objectives,” said Gary Hall, President of Infrastructure & Public Finance at the firm. “I know he will contribute greatly to SWS being a perennial leader in the public finance industry.”

Prior to his six-year tenure at UBS, Nicholson held senior leadership and analytical roles at JPMorgan, Lehman Brothers, Barclays Capital, and Wells Fargo. He earned his BA at Harvard College, where he studied Economics.

“I am very excited to join the Siebert Williams Shank and Co. team,” Nicholson said. “The firm is deeply committed to the success of its clients and provides the highest quality of service to them with innovative and actionable ideas.”

Nicholson was instrumental in the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s 2002 debt restructuring and its subsequent refinancing in 2012. He also provided extensive quantitative support and ideas generation for the 2023 Chicago Sales Tax Securitization and tender, which earned The Bond Buyer’s prestigious Deal of the Year award in December. In addition, he helped facilitate the State of Oregon’s 2023 Higher Education General Obligation transaction.

Nicholson has developed and participated in debt financings for the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York, the New York Municipal Water Finance Authority, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, the Texas Water Development Board, and the University of California, among others throughout his career. His specialties include tenders, pooled loans, restructurings, defeasances, and energy prepays.

About Siebert Williams Shank

Dually headquartered in New York, NY and Oakland, CA, SWS is an independent non-bank financial services firm that offers investment banking, sales and trading, research, and advisory services. Its mission is to exceed expectations through value-added results and leave a lasting impact on the sectors, corporations, and communities they serve. SWS counts 74 Fortune 100 companies among its clients.

Media Contact

Tom Butler

646-213-1802

TButler@ButlerPR.com

Nick Eilerson

646-205-7627

NEilerson@ButlerPR.com

Integrated communications agency 4media group today announced the relaunch of its influencer marketing agency, Dynamik Influence. The announcement marks a new chapter in 4media group’s mission to empower brands to harness the power of influencer marketing and achieve their business goals.

With a renewed focus on innovation, data-driven insights, and personalized campaign strategies, Dynamik Influence is poised to propel brands to the forefront of the ever-evolving influencer marketing landscape. The agency’s expertise lies in identifying the right influencers, crafting compelling narratives, and measuring the true impact of influencer marketing campaigns.

“The world of influencer marketing is dynamic and constantly evolving,” said Mandy Anderson, Senior Vice President of Client Relationships at Dynamik Influence. “Our relaunch reflects our commitment to staying ahead of the curve, providing brands with the latest strategies and tools to navigate this powerful marketing channel effectively.”

Influencer marketing has emerged as a cornerstone of modern marketing strategies, with a staggering 80% of marketers now having a dedicated influencer marketing budget. This growing trend is driven by the undeniable impact of influencer marketing, especially for certain demographics. For example, an international survey conducted by 4media group’s in-house market research agency Atomik Research revealed:

• 86% of women say they use social media for purchasing advice
• 88% of consumers have purchased something due to a creator’s content in the last six months
• Among 18- to 34-year-olds, who seem glued to their mobile devices, influencer marketing outranks TV advertising, digital advertising, radio advertising and billboards for 85% of the respondents

"Influencer marketing is no longer considered a trend; it’s an essential component of any brand’s marketing strategy," said Ed Cyster, founder and CEO of 4media group. "At Dynamik Influence, we empower brands to unlock the true potential of this powerful channel, achieving measurable results and driving their business forward."

With its relaunch, Dynamik Influence joins Atomik Research as a top-tier offering from 4media group, poised to revolutionize the marketing landscape and helping brands forge meaningful connections with their target audiences and achieve measurable success.

"After 20 years in media sales leadership, forging invaluable relationships with agencies and brands, I couldn't ignore the growing disconnect between traditional advertising and authentic consumer engagement," shared Anderson. "Relaunching Dynamik Influence feels like bridging that gap, offering a data-driven yet deeply human approach to influencer marketing. This isn't just another platform; it's a chance to rewrite the rules and witness the true power of genuine connections. I'm thrilled to be leading the charge."

About Dynamik Influence

Dynamik Influence is a global influencer marketing agency with a tenacious approach to connecting consumers and brands through quality content. The Dynamik Influence team of professionals delivers a research-driven influencer marketing process to promote brand relevancy, authenticity and awareness. Their influencers build beautiful, compelling content, and Dynamik’s platform syndicates that across social media channels, backed by best in-class analytics. Visit us online at dynamikinfluence.com.

About 4media group

As an integrated communications agency, 4media group has been storytelling on behalf of the world’s most notable brands and organizations since 2008. Using insights to inform our approach, we create the best achievable outcomes for our clients through marketing strategies, social media, influencer programs, broadcast media tours, video production, news distribution, public service announcements and public relations. We’re a global company with headquarters in London, UK and Bentonville, Arkansas, with satellite offices spanning from New York City to Los Angeles. We work as one company, one culture, for our clients every day. Visit us online at 4media-group.com.

Media Contact

Jaimee Davis

jaimee.davis@4media-group.com

In keeping with Glamorise’s customer-centric legacy, the 103-year-old bra company has introduced its most targeted collection of plus-size bras to date, designed using insights gained from newly launched consumer research and years of Glamorise proprietary fit panel data.

Glamorise Foundations Inc. unveiled three new bra styles that took years of development and iteration after fitting each size on women at the company’s NYC design center (the last of its kind in the city). The launch is generating rave reviews, with some even suggesting that the team might have crafted the "ultimate bra" for plus-size women. 

Each style was designed with intention and undeniably created for curves:

• WonderWire Front-Close Posture Back Bra: Received unprecedented praise during wear tests and hailed as the most well-received new bra in Glamorise's history. The bra combines seamless comfort with posture support and Glamorise’s cushioned underwire technology.
• WonderWire Minimizer Bra: Fulfills customers’ most searched-for bra that Glamorise had not made, until now. 
• MagicLift Seamless Everyday Bra: Inspired by the bra maker’s best-selling sports bra after learning many women wore this sports bra daily outside the gym. This t-shirt bra version blends the support and active features consumers know with an everyday, seamless style.

"Our bra designs are rooted in the idea that no one knows more about a bra than the consumer," said Glamorise CEO Jon Pundyk. "We conduct extensive consumer research, spend years in the fitting room developing a new bra, and then run consumer wear panels to refine our designs so they really work. We’re proud to say this new line is perhaps our most focused and thoughtful in the company’s history."

For example, the new WonderWire front-close posture back bra has its origin in consumer feedback seeking a posture back bra that had a more fashion forward look. It was actually a design challenge to make a balanced bra that combines real back support with a graceful seamless cup design. Consumer reviews are extremely gratifying as wearers tell us “this is a game changer” especially for women with bigger cup sizes.

"Our independent company has existed for more than a century because so many women, especially curvy women, can’t just buy a bra and expect it to work for them," Pundyk said. "Our entire company is dedicated to making sure this consumer is not let down again."

For more information on Glamorise’s bras and history, visit Glamorise.com. To request bra samples, download high-res imagery, and additional product details, visit our Press Hook profile.  Glamorise uses affiliates: Skimlinks, Impact and Amazon. Bras are available on Glamorise.com and most major retailers, including Target, Macy’s, Nordstrom, JCPenney, Walmart and Kohl’s

About Glamorise

Founded in 1921, Glamorise is recognized as one of the first plus-size focused companies. Today Glamorise designs the best-fitting plus size bras (just check out the reviews) with features designed for curves whether its adjustable bounce control, wide straps, supportive bands and cups that lift, smooth and shape. The company also makes 130+ sizes up to a 58K—more sizes than any other brand.

Media Contact

Michelle Songy

michelle@presshook.com

The highly-anticipated Charlotte Moss for Ibu Movement Collection is set to debut in March 2024, marking an exceptional collaboration between two leaders in the worlds of design and social impact. The Moss-inspired collection offers a fresh perspective on style, celebrating the evolution of personal fashion and the timelessness of layered, minimalistic silhouettes.

Drawing inspiration from vintage fashion sketches, travel, and her evolving style, Charlotte Moss has crafted a collection that embraces a refined profile. Charlotte's closet played a pivotal role in shaping this collection, with certain pieces inspired by her own wardrobe, including a stylish pajama pant with a cropped jacket.

Charlotte Moss shared her enthusiasm for the new collection by stating, “A good collaboration is always a great learning experience. The opportunity to work with Ibu on another collection is an honor and a special treat. To start with an idea and see it evolve through the knowledge, expertise, and the hand of others is an amazing opportunity and it always makes me look at my vintage items with an eye to the possibilities.”

What sets the Charlotte Moss for Ibu Movement collection apart is its deep-rooted Moroccan influence and details. Ibu artisan partner Nawal El Hariti is coordinating artisans in Ourika, Morocco, to handcraft the collection, employing native techniques, which adds a touch of artistry and authenticity to each of the eight styles. Elaborate soutache embroidery with subtle neutral tones, inspired by soft desert florals from Charlotte’s travels across Morocco, adds at times ornate and at other times surprising minimal hand-embroidery to each item.

The collection boasts a versatile array of styles, including caftans, leisurewear coordinates, jackets, skirts, and pants, each offering multiple colorways for endless mix-and-match possibilities. Each garment showcases a new silhouette, introduces new fanciful sleeves, and contributes to a unified collection. The color palette—featuring chartreuse, lavender, rose-garden pink, cream, and sand—is complemented by the exotic touch of Moroccan fabrics, adding depth and richness to the collection.

Moss has also delved into the world of accessories with this collection. Drawing from her love for lariats, she introduces stunning jewelry pieces crafted by Alma Joyeria in Colombia, along with a horn cuff bracelet crafted by Belart in Vietnam. Bags handmade by Mola Sasa and Finatur Designs in Colombia will perfectly complement the mix-and-match pieces. For those seeking warmth and style, the collection offers pashminas, block-printed by Sudarshan in India. Footwear is not forgotten, with three shoe styles inspired by pairs that Moss wears regularly and popularized in her first Ibu collaboration in 2017.

The collaboration seamlessly bridges the worlds of classic and contemporary fashion, offering curated pieces that resonate with the modern woman's desire for elegance and versatility, while celebrating the crafts of global artisans. 

To celebrate the Charlotte Moss for Ibu Movement collection, Ibu is hosting two debut events in the spring of 2024. A Night in the Medina will be hosted in Charleston, South Carolina on March 6, 2024, and an opening event at Caspari in Charlottesville, Virginia will take place in April 2024. Tickets for A Night in the Medina are on sale now, available exclusively at www.ibumovement.com/pages/night-in-the-medina. For reservations to the event at Caspari in Charlottesville, please contact Meredith Gale at meredith@ibumovement.org.

For more information on the Ibu Movement and to shop the Charlotte Moss for Ibu Movement collection, please visit www.ibumovement.org.

Media Contact

Eve Boggs

eve@wawnerstrategies.com

571-315-3159

The Association of Pickleball Players (APP) unveiled plans for a permanent home at The Fort in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., making the APP the first pickleball organization ever to establish an official headquarters and training center. The state-of-the-art facility, featuring 43 courts and the world’s first pickleball stadium, will further support the APP’s mission in developing the sport’s talent and growing pickleball at all levels.

“Our new headquarters and training facility provides the Association of Pickleball Players an incredible opportunity to grow beyond hosting world-class events,” said APP Founder Ken Herrmann. “The Fort will set the bar for pickleball facilities worldwide and will allow us to further develop the APP into the leading global pickleball organization. We cannot wait to officially call South Florida—the epicenter of pickleball action—our home.”

Co-Founders Brad Tuckman and Rich Campillo envision The Fort as more than a pickleball club; it's a community hub where pickleballers discover a home away from home and experience the essence of South Florida living.

“Aligning with the APP was a natural choice, as their vision mirrors our own—to elevate the game while honoring its inclusive roots as a sport for everyone, whether for social play or professional ambition. With the APP playing a central role in our training and development initiatives, we're now even better positioned to establish The Fort as the premier pickleball destination, providing a perfect blend of competition and unparalleled entertainment for everyone,” said Tuckman.

The APP and The Fort share a mutual vision to support the growth of pickleball and develop the sport’s talent at its core. This builds on the APP’s reputation as the first and original USA Pickleball-sanctioned tour by now establishing a regular wide range of year-round programming opportunities tailored to pickleball players of all skill levels and ages. The APP’s current plans for growth are highlighted by:

• Holding world-class, international pickleball tournaments and events for elite pros and amateurs
• Junior player development for U.S. and international students
• Programs for high-performance touring pros seeking structured, year-round training
• Opportunities for aspiring pickleball players from around the world to train, engage with other players and enjoy a vast array of resources at their disposal
• Serving as the official training home for the APP Next Gen National Team

The Fort will deliver an unmatched pickleball experience. The heart of The Fort is its pickleball club accompanied by:

• 43 professional courts and the world’s first dedicated pickleball stadium
• 14 weatherproof courts for play rain or shine
• Open and reserved play, clinics, leagues and tournaments for casual and competitive players
• Pro shop, locker rooms and fitness recovery center
• 4,000 square foot event center, and food and beverage options offering a blend of social and culinary delights that embody the South Florida lifestyle

Located within the 93-acre Snyder Park and adjacent to the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, The Fort is scheduled to have its grand opening later this year, in time to welcome pickleball players to the APP’s final Major of the 2024 season. To learn more about The Fort, visit playthefort.com and follow @PlayTheFort on Instagram and Facebook.

The APP’s new headquarters in Fort Lauderdale enables the organization to embed itself in one of the strongest pickleball communities in the world. In addition to being the home of The Fort, the Miami-Fort Lauderdale metropolitan area represents the single largest concentration of pickleball players in Florida, with 20 percent of the state’s pickleball-playing population residing in the area. According to the APP’s 2023 player participation research data, the Miami-Fort Lauderdale metropolitan area is the fourth largest pickleball market in the nation, with 3.1 percent of their population having played the sport at least once in the past twelve months.

The APP is currently welcoming more than 1,200 pickleball players to Southwest Florida with the APP Punta Gorda Open now through Sunday, January 21. More information about how to compete at an upcoming APP event—including Tour dates, registration and ticket information—is available on theapp.global.

About the APP

The Association of Pickleball Players (APP) provides opportunities for pickleball players of all ages and skill levels—professionals, amateurs and recreational—to compete in world-class pickleball events for the opportunity to win prize money and be seen on internationally televised broadcasts. The APP was founded in 2019 and operates the first and only tour fully and officially sanctioned by USA Pickleball. In 2023, it held 19 events across the country and supported five international tournaments. The APP prides itself on developing the next generation of pickleball champions through its APP Next Gen Series, the APP Next Gen National Team and other youth initiatives. The 2024 schedule, recent news and additional information about the APP are available at theapp.global and on Instagram, X, Threads, TikTok, Facebook and LinkedIn.

About The Fort

The Fort, a public private partnership with the City of Fort Lauderdale, is a lively hub for pickleball and sports enthusiasts, nestled next to the FLL airport in Snyder Park's 93 acres. Catering to all skill levels, the Fort features 43 pickleball courts, including 14 weatherproof covered, and the first-ever pickleball stadium. Beyond pickleball, The Fort offers a variety of activities like golf simulators, a dart room, beach tennis, paddle boarding on a scenic 7-acre lake, bocce, and live music with lakeside dining. The Fort is more than a venue for games; it's an immersive experience for dining, socializing, and entertainment, making it a symbol of community and good old fashion fun.

Media Contact

Daniel Sagerman

847-800-8182

dsagerman@theapp.global

Lotis Blue Consulting, a corporate advisory and business transformation firm, releases the third edition of its comprehensive research study, Lotis Blue Future of Retail Workforce Study, analyzing the current state of the retail workforce. The study investigates ways the current macroeconomic environment has influenced retention trends for the retail workforce; factors that are becoming more important to employee retention and loyalty; how motivations for leaving or staying in a job are changing over time; and, new to this edition, how factors driving quit and stay decisions differ by workforce characteristics and retail segment.

Research for the Lotis Blue Future of Retail Workforce Study was conducted during the lead-up to the 2023 holiday season and is based on comprehensive, objective feedback from 1,000 retail associates. The report uses the lens of the Employee Value Proposition (EVP)—including 7 dimensions and 30 underlying factors—to evaluate retail employees’ decisions to stay, consider leaving or leave an employer.

“Labor dynamics in retail have changed dramatically in the last 12 months with a tightening of the job market and stabilizing sales, coinciding with major attitude shifts toward work and employers,” noted Lotis Blue Consulting partner and study author Aaron Sorensen, adding, “Even with changing labor conditions and issues, the data is comprehensive enough to predict an employee’s decision to stay or leave an employer with 87 percent accuracy. And in order to hold onto valued employees, we’ve observed that retailers must simultaneously provide an environment where there are more factors that make workers want to stay, and fewer that make them want to quit.”

The study found that recent changes in labor market dynamics resulted in a decrease in turnover but a 7% increase in retail associates who are considering leaving their jobs, suggesting an underlying dissatisfaction with their current work situation. “Changes to the reasons that associates are staying or leaving an employer suggest that factors such as schedule flexibility serve a triggering role to job dissatisfaction,” noted study co-author and Lotis Blue Consulting partner Erica Grant. “While some decision drivers such as enjoyable work consistently influence staying decisions across workforce segments, other factors vary significantly in their importance by retail segment. There is no one-size-fits-all approach for retailers."

The study findings in this most recent edition include:

1. Talent strategies for the retail workforce have a short shelf-life, due to changes in labor and market conditions
2. Stay and leave decisions have changed significantly in the last 12 months, differing across retailer types and workforce characteristics
3. Job factors create magnetism that uniquely attracts or repels retail associates
4. More associates are staying, but there are also more with one foot out the door
5. Some factors matter more than others: 60% of all stay-or-leave decisions currently relate to Job & Work Environment, Company, and Leadership Culture
6. Pay and Health & Safety have made significant jumps as turnover/retention drivers this year, and Scheduling triggers a cascade of turnover intentions

For more information or to see the newest edition of the Lotis Blue Future of Retail Workforce Study, please visit: https://www.lotisblueconsulting.com/insights/2024-the-future-of-retail-workforce-study/

Study Methodology

The ongoing Lotis Blue Future of Retail Workforce Study, now in its third iteration, has cumulatively surveyed over 3,000 employees across 700 retailers in the apparel, big box, apparel & luxury, grocery & convenience, home goods & electronics, specialty, fast casual and other sectors, deriving comprehensive, objective feedback. Research for the first study was conducted in summer 2022, for the second, in the lead-up to the of 2022 holiday season, and for this current edition, in the lead-up to the 2023 holiday season.

At the intersection of growth and transformation, you’ll find Lotis Blue Consulting. We help businesses improve the performance of their workforce, leadership teams, and organizations through evidence-based strategies grounded in leading-edge analytics and behavioral science.

Media Contact

Meir Kahtan

917-864-0800

mkahtan@rcn.com

Cyber Node Security developed an exclusive platform that can effortlessly explore the intricate structure of blockchain transactions, discover shortcomings, and recover lost or compromised cryptocurrency through a combination of artificial intelligence, quantum computing, blockchain knowledge, and cyber node security firewall principles. With the help of this groundbreaking innovation, digital currency recovery has advanced significantly, giving both people and companies a potent weapon for protecting their digital assets and helping those impacted by crypto trading platform crimes.

"Cyber Node Security is proud to introduce a game-changing solution that addresses the pressing challenges of cryptocurrency recovery," said Barry Donalds Chief Information Officer at Cyber Node Security. "Our revolutionary platform combines cutting-edge technology with cyber node security principles to offer unparalleled efficiency and security in the realm of digital asset recovery. We believe that this innovation will significantly elevate the level of confidence and trust in the cryptocurrency ecosystem."

Cyber Node Security is committed to pushing the boundaries of technology and security as the cryptocurrency landscape changes in order to protect digital assets and resources. The business is in a position to change the way that digital asset security is provided in the future with its innovative crypto recovery services to help get stolen bitcoin back.

For more information about Cyber Node Security and their crypto recovery services, please visit their official website at https://cybernodesecurity.com.

About Cyber Node Security

Cyber Node Security is a cutting-edge technology firm that provides a variety of services to aid cybercrime victims in reclaiming their stolen digital asset. The company’s team of professionals has extensive expertise in identifying and recovering funds from online transactions by employing sophisticated technologies and tactics. Cyber Node Security is devoted to delivering a trustworthy and transparent service to its customers, and they collaborate closely with financial institutions and law enforcement agencies to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

Media Contact

Barry Donalds

admin@cybernodesecurity.com

Skintensive, an award-winning and science-backed skincare brand founded by two Harvard-trained dermatologists, is thrilled to announce its plans for expansion in 2024. Known for its clinically-tested and top-selling Bruise Cream and a skincare range designed to support maturing and sensitive skin, Skintensive welcomes industry veteran, Dr. John Bartolone Ph.D., and acquires ScarSmart, a scar improvement and prevention brand.

Bartolone joins Skintensive co-founders Anar Mikailov, M.D., FAAD, and Vladimir Ratushny, M.D., Ph.D., FAAD, as Chief Science Officer. With over 30 years of experience leading research and development labs in two of the world’s biggest personal care brands, Procter & Gamble and Unilever, Dr. Bartolone has launched numerous “first-of-its-kind” technologies and products in skincare and haircare. Pioneering core global science platforms, including anti-aging and skin lightening, Dr. Bartolone most recently launched Unilever’s first plant-based preservative system.

Prior to pivoting to cosmetics, Dr. Bartolone was an Assistant Professor at the University of Connecticut, where he was awarded the “Best Paper of the Year” from the Society of Toxicology for ground-breaking research on Acetaminophen Hepatotoxicity.

“I was impressed when I first met Dr. Mikailov and Dr. Ratushny in how they found an underserved, white space in the otherwise saturated skincare industry,” said Dr. Bartolone. “They’re seeing patients daily in clinics and using that direct patient feedback along with their expertise to create truly functional products. I’m honored to bring my experience and expertise to Skintensive as the brand continues expanding.”

“Dr. Mikailov and I are humbled and excited for John Bartolone to join us at Skintensive,” said Dr. Ratushny. “Not only does he provide an encyclopedic insight into the skincare industry, his experience in product development, brand positioning, and creating breakthrough innovations is truly invaluable.”

In addition to the appointment of John Bartolone, Skintensive is excited to announce the acquisition of Scar Smart, the makers of Scar Smart Silicone Scar Gel and Scar Smart Silicone Scar Sheets. Scar Smart is a proven silicone-based scar revision product line that will expand Skintensive’s product offering of functional skincare solutions.

"We initially developed the Skintensive Bruise Cream to address acute and chronic bruising and solar purpura that is exceedingly common in our patients,” said Dr. Mikailov. “Those same patients also need options for the prevention and improvement of scars on their fragile skin. Now, the patients who trust our Skintensive brand will have access to an incredible product that dermatologists have recommended for many years."

The Skintensive brand is carried by numerous board-certified dermatologist offices in the United States and will be exhibited at the 2024 American Academy of Dermatology conference in San Diego from March 7th through the 11th. Skintensive’s expansion in 2024 reflects the brand’s strong sales growth and its commitment to delivering cutting-edge, high-quality, expert-driven skincare solutions. With the addition of Dr. Bartolone and the acquisition of Scar Smart, Skintensive is well-positioned to continue its growth trajectory and strengthen its position through 2024 and beyond.

For more information, visit skintensive.com and @skintensive on social media.

About Skintensive

Founded by two Harvard-trained dermatologists, Skintensive develops science-backed and clinically-tested skincare designed to support aging skin. Best known for the Skintensive Bruise Cream, the company ensures that each formula is grounded in research and crafted to perfection through rigorous testing.

About Anar Mikailov, MD. FAAD

Dr. Mikailov is a Harvard-trained dermatologist with an expertise in high-risk skin cancer and medical dermatology. He is the author of the world-famous Fitzpatrick’s Color Atlas and Synopsis of Clinical Dermatology 9th edition, the best-selling dermatology textbook. He is dual-boarded in both Internal Medicine and Dermatology.

Recognized as a leader in consultative hospital dermatology, Dr. Mikailov has published extensively and presented internationally. He practices medical and consultative dermatology full-time in Rochester, NY.

About Vladimir Ratushny, M.D. Ph.D. FAAD

Dr. Ratushny is a Harvard-trained dermatologist and fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon. He is well-known for his expertise in Mohs surgery, high-risk skin cancer management, general dermatology, and hair transplantation.

During the course of his Ph.D. at Fox Chase Cancer Center, Dr. Ratushny discovered two new drug combination therapies for cancer, one of which went on to be tested in a clinical trial for lung cancer patients. Dr. Ratushny’s original research, case reports, and review articles have been published in numerous peer-reviewed journals in areas ranging from skin cancer, drug resistance mechanisms, Lyme disease, allergic contact dermatitis, and medical humanities.

Media Contact

Gloria Yang

Glow Yang PR

310-381-9964

gloria@glowyangpr.com

PrestigePEO, one of the nation’s leading professional employer organizations (PEOs), announced today it received Business Intelligence Group’s BIG Awards for Business. The Company was named a winner in the Small Business of the Year category.

Business Intelligence Group’s BIG Awards for Business program rewards companies, products, and people who are leaders in their respective industries.

PrestigePEO, which provides a broad range of human resources outsourcing services, was recognized for its customer-focused service model, strategic human resources consultation, diverse employee benefits service offerings and outstanding 2023 performance.

"In 2023, we improved our technological infrastructure and extended the range of HR services we offer clients. These advancements were primarily driven by the valuable feedback our clients provide, which enables us to better cater to their needs and facilitate the growth of their businesses. We appreciate the recognition PrestigePEO received from Business Intelligence Group and are honored the judges took note of both the efforts put forth and dedication exhibited by our entire team," said Robyn Rusignuolo, COO of PrestigePEO.

Andrew Lubash, PrestigePEO founder and CEO, added, "For more than two decades, PrestigePEO has remained dedicated to delivering immense value to our small and medium-sized business clients via our hands-on service approach. Our team members build strong connections with the brokers with whom we work and the clients we serve, along with our clients' employees. This longstanding personal bond results in ongoing referrals, which significantly contributes to our continued growth, and is among the key reasons for PrestigePEO earning this prestigious award from Business Intelligence Group."

"In the spirit of achievement and excellence, we congratulate PrestigePEO on their outstanding success in 2023. Their victory exemplifies the highest standards of innovation and business acumen," said Maria Jimenez, Chief Nominations Officer. "Kudos to all the winners who have demonstrated unparalleled excellence, collectively shaping the future of business. May this recognition inspire continued greatness in the years to come."

About Business Intelligence Group

The Business Intelligence Group was founded with the mission of recognizing true talent and superior performance in the business world. Unlike other industry award programs, business executives—those with experience and knowledge—judge the programs. The organization’s proprietary and unique scoring system selectively measures performance across multiple business domains and then rewards those companies whose achievements stand above those of their peers.

About PrestigePEO

Melville, N.Y.-based PrestigePEO provides integrated, end-to-end human resources (HR) solutions to small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) for managing all essential human resources operations. This includes support for employee benefits management, payroll administration, compliance, and HR guidance, among others. PrestigePEO’s full spectrum of HR services and solutions helps SMBs lower employee benefit costs, reduce administrative workloads, and manage critical HR functions.

PrestigePEO is among only 1% of PEOs accredited by the Employer Services Assurance Corporation (ESAC), certified (CI) through Workers Comp Risk Management, and classified as a Certified Professional Employer Organization (CPEO) by the IRS—demonstrating financial stability and strict adherence with a diverse range of regulatory and security standards.

To learn more, visit www.prestigepeo.com and follow PrestigePEO on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Media Contact

Susan Turkell

PAIRELATIONS

303-766-4343

sturkell@pairelations.com

National Pizza Week is January 14 to January 20 and UNO Pizzeria & Grill is celebrating with deals on all styles of their amazing pizza. UNO Pizzeria & Grill is the inventor of deep dish pizza and just celebrated their 80th birthday. To mark the occasion and National Pizza Week, UNO is offering a deal a day on their different pizza styles. Each day features a different deal.

On Tuesday, January 16, the offering is Detroit-style pizza with a BOGO 80-cents deal. Buy one small Detroit-style pizza (cheese or pepperoni) and receive a second for only 80 cents. Available for take-out and dine-in. Available at select locations only. Limit one deal per guest.

On Wednesday, January 17, the deal is $6 individual cheese or pepperoni thin crust pizzas. Available for take-out and dine-in. Limit 5 per guest.

On Thursday, January 18, they are celebrating the 80th birthday of deep dish pizza with a $6 individual deep dish cheese or pepperoni pizza. Available for take-out or dine-in. Limit 5 per guest.

On Friday, January 19, they are featuring their new tavern-style pizza for $9.99. This new UNO pizza style features a buttery and crisp crust, a flavorful sauce and a tangy mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend. It is available at select locations only and is for dine-in only.

On Saturday, January 20, the deals end with a take-out deal that features a BOGO 50%-off pizza deal. Buy any pizza and get the second one for 50% off. Enjoy your weekend with this great deal.

Availability on all offers may vary by location.

Come join in the celebration of both National Pizza Week and the 80th birthday of UNO Pizzeria & Grill.

About UNO Pizzeria & Grill

Based in Boston, Massachusetts, Uno Restaurant Holdings Corporation includes approximately 80 company-owned and franchised UNO Pizzeria & Grill restaurants located in 18 states, and the District of Columbia, India, and Saudi Arabia. UNO is all about connecting people over pizza—from its famous Chicago Deep Dish, which UNO invented in 1943, to its Chicago Thin Crust, to its gluten-free and vegan pizzas. For more information, visit www.unos.com.

Media Contact

Chris Dellamarggio

339-613-7641

cdellamarggio@unos.com

Today, Botanic Tonics, LLC announced new label changes to the company’s top product, feel free CLASSIC, aimed at helping consumers make more informed decisions about product purchase and use. The company’s new label reflects the company’s industry-leading commitment to provide accurate information about the product's contents, dosage, and potential risks. 

The new feel free CLASSIC label includes the legally required information including serving sizes, servings per container, active ingredients and age restrictions. However, the new label goes above and beyond the required information to include information about expiration dates and detailed information about active ingredients such as total alkaloids, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. The new label also includes a warning notice that, like caffeine and alcohol, kratom has the potential to become habit forming if consumed irresponsibly. The label also includes nonrequired disclaimers about who should avoid using any potentially habit-forming substance, such as those with a history of past substance abuse or using certain medications. 

"Currently, regulations in the U.S. only call for basic product information and disclaimers that we believe lack sufficient detail," said JW Ross, founder of Botanic Tonics. "Consumers deserve more comprehensive labeling to make an informed decision and use our product in the safest manner possible. The feel free CLASSIC label changes reflect desired changes we would like to see in a safe, regulated industry."

In the U.S., kratom is legal to sell and consume in 45 of the 50 states. Eleven of 45 states have passed the Kratom Consumer Protection Act (KPCA) and 20 additional states are actively considering KCPA adoption. Of the 5 states where kratom is not legal to sell or consume, two states are considering a reversal of the ban in favor of adopting the KCPA. 

"Labeling and regulations with clear guidelines are ultimately needed to promote long-term growth, stability and availability,” said Ross. “Botanic Tonics will continually seek to provide information and resources to help consumers make informed decisions."

Potency is also a growing and concerning commercial trend. The distinction lies in the production and marketing of kratom concentrates and isolates that are derived from natural leaf kratom by extraction and/or are mimicked synthetically. This enrichment process can increase the mitragynine or other alkaloid concentrations to 40% or higher in such products. Proper separate regulations by kratom type need to be put in place for these products including dosage limits. 

"Not all kratom is equal and labels need to make that distinction clear," said Ross. "Similar to comparisons between low THC hemp/CBD and high THC cannabis, confusion about potency can lead to unpredictable effects when directions and labels are unclear or incomplete."

About Botanic Tonics

Botanic Tonics, LLC manufactures, sells and distributes wellness tonics and capsules under its FEEL FREE and BOTANIC TONICS PLANT SOLUTIONS marks. For more information about the company and its line of products, visit Botanic Tonics' website or follow Botanic Tonics on Facebook,  Instagram, YouTube and TikTok.

Media Contact

Patrick George

pgeorge@ka-pow.com

916-202-1982

Sabio Group, the global digital experience transformation services specialist, has announced the appointment of a new Managing Director for its Iberian operations. Gabrial Rodriguez Seilhan takes on the role four years after joining the company following the acquisition of Team Vision, where he served as General Manager. Since then, he has held several key roles within the Sabio Group, most recently where he was instrumental in strengthening relations with strategic partners such as Avaya, Genesys, Verint and Twilio.

Rodriguez's experience from Team Vision, combined with his various roles at Sabio, provides him with in-depth knowledge of not only the Spanish CX sector, but the wider European CX landscape. He will now spearhead Sabio’s growth across Iberia, driving the expansion of the Group’s customer base through initiatives like its 'Top 100' program.

Andy Roberts, CEO of Sabio Group, said, "Gabriel has consistently demonstrated his leadership capabilities across various roles in the company and has a proven track record of success and delivering growth during his period with the Group. We are really excited by this appointment and are confident Gabriel’s leadership will help us cement our position as a leading customer experience provider in the thriving Iberian market.”

Ioan MacRae, Chief Revenue Officer at Sabio, added, "Gabriel brings a wealth of leadership experience and a passion for customer success. Since joining us through the acquisition of Team Vision, he has been instrumental in integrating multiple businesses into the Sabio Group and delivering value for our customers in Iberia. I am excited to work closely with Gabriel as we continue to transform our solutions and services and deliver exceptional CX not just across Iberia but across the Group.”

Gabriel said, "I am honoured to take on this new role at such an exciting time for Sabio and the wider CX industry in general. Iberia represents a key growth market for us, and I look forward to building on the strong foundations we have laid in recent years. My priority is to continue delivering the very best CX solutions and services to our customers across Iberia, by working hand-in-hand with my amazing colleagues and our strategic partners.”

In Iberia, Sabio provides CX solutions and consultancy services to leading brands including Securitas Direct, Abanca, Axa, Linea Directa, Vodafone, Caixabank, Segur Caixa and Sanitas. Its focus on harnessing the latest innovations in CX has enabled Sabio to successfully support these leading brands to connect customer experience to business value.

Rodriguez replaces outgoing MD Santiago Martinez, who is stepping down from the position after four years in charge.

Media Contact

Joe O'Brien

Sabio Group

joe.obrien@sabiogroup.com

ToolsGroup, a global leader in retail and supply chain planning and optimization software, is proud to be recognized as a Leader in five separate G2 Winter 2024 reports. Across all report categories, less than 4% of products and services earn Leader recognition. According to G2, “Despite our expansive report distribution, only the crème de la crème earn the honor of a Leader or High Performer badge within these reports.”

To qualify for inclusion in the Supply Chain Planning category, a product must provide planning tools for demand, inventory, replenishment, and ordering, facilitate delivery schedules and load planning, and customize plans based on individual business priorities.

Solutions in the Demand Planning category must produce reliable forecasts by extracting key insights from metrics like inventory trackers, converting raw data into actionable forecasts, supporting automation, and leveraging predictive analysis.

Based on a wealth of direct customer reviews, ToolsGroup earned recognition as a Leader in the following reports:

• Grid® Report for Supply Chain Planning | Winter 2024
• Europe Regional Grid® Report for Supply Chain Planning | Winter 2024
• EMEA Regional Grid® Report for Supply Chain Planning | Winter 2024
• Grid® Report for Demand Planning | Winter 2024
• EMEA Regional Grid® Report for Demand Planning | Winter 2024

“We believe the greatest measure of success is a profitable customer who can achieve efficiency gains and deliver premier service despite market volatility,” said ToolsGroup CEO, Inna Kuznetsova. “That’s why we’re honored that so many companies have publicly shared their experience as ToolsGroup customers. The overwhelmingly positive feedback is indicative of the power of our AI-driven supply chain solutions, the expertise of our teams, and the value of our partnerships. We are grateful to collaborate with so many forward-thinking brands, providing the quantum analytics, innovation, and expertise to help them achieve their business goals.”

Additional Resources

• See ToolsGroup’s G2 reviews here.
• Learn more about ToolsGroup’s industry recognition from customers and analysts here.

About ToolsGroup

ToolsGroup’s innovative AI-powered solutions enable retailers, distributors, and manufacturers to navigate through supply chain uncertainty. Our retail and supply chain planning suites empower a new level of intelligent decision-making and unlock powerful business improvements in forecast accuracy, service levels, and inventory—delighting customers and achieving financial and sustainability KPIs. Stay in touch with ToolsGroup on LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, or visit www.toolsgroup.com.

Media Contact

Meir Kahtan

917-864-0800

mkahtan@rcn.com

NAFA Fleet Management Association (NAFA) is thrilled to collaborate with J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc. to introduce a comprehensive training program exclusively tailored for NAFA members. This collaboration brings forth a specialized suite of DOT training courses designed to address safety, compliance and workforce requirements essential for organizations operating under DOT regulations.

This training aims to equip NAFA members with effective safety training programs that ensure compliance with OSHA, DOT and HR requirements. These courses are strategically developed to enhance workplace safety, reduce accidents and injuries, mitigate workers’ comp costs, foster improved employee engagement and morale, and safeguard the reputation of organizations.

“Our members’ success is at the core of NAFA,” said Mike Camnetar, CAFM, NAFA Board President. “Teaming up with J. J. Keller® Training allows us to provide exclusive access to top-tier DOT training courses, enabling our members to thrive in their operations while prioritizing safety and compliance.”

Exclusive Training Benefits for NAFA Members

• Access to hundreds of online courses and video-on-demand training at a discounted rate
• Self-paced online courses tailored for individual learning
• Training materials for classroom settings suitable for team-based learning
• Spanish-language courses available for diverse learners

For NAFA members, the discounted pricing for training courses is $19.00 per Self-Paced Training course and $50.00 per Video on Demand.

Self-Paced Training Courses allow NAFA members to independently access and complete modules within a 90-day enrollment period, featuring quizzes for comprehension assessment. The Video on Demand Training is tailored for classroom settings and equips facilitators with comprehensive instructions, video content, quizzes and supplementary materials for group sessions, and is available within a 30-day access window.

To learn more about this collaboration and the courses, visit: https://www.nafa.org/events/dot-training-courses/ 

About NAFA Fleet Management Association

NAFA Fleet Management Association is the membership organization for professionals who manage the mobility requirements of vehicle fleets that include commercial, public safety, trucks, and buses of all types and sizes, and a wide range of military and off-road equipment for corporations, governments, universities, utility fleets, and law enforcement in North America and across the globe. NAFA’s members are responsible for the specification, acquisition, maintenance, repair, fueling, risk management, and remarketing of more than 4.8 million vehicles that drive an estimated 84 billion miles each year. NAFA’s members control assets and services well above $122 billion each year.

For more information, please visit www.nafa.org, and communicate with NAFA on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X.

Media Contact

Keaveny Hewitt

khewitt@onwrdupwrd.com

919-622-5276

United Disabilities Services (UDS) Service Dog Program, an assistance dog program dedicated to assisting people with disabilities, is pleased to announce that it achieved reaccreditation by Assistance Dogs International (ADI). ADI is the leading authority in the assistance dogs industry. It establishes and promotes standards of excellence in all areas of assistance dog acquisition, training and partnership.

UDS Service Dogs trains puppies starting at the age of 8 weeks to work as service dogs for people with mobility challenges and autism, facility dogs in school districts and therapy offices as well as veterans with PTSD. We mainly work with Labrador Retrievers due to their high work drive, however recently there has been a high demand for non-shedding breeds and we are now working with Labradoodles, Goldendoodles, Bernedoodles and Aussiedoodles to address those client needs.

Once accredited, a program becomes a member of ADI. Member programs must complete a reaccreditation every 5 years to comply with ADI's Standards of Practice. ADI accreditation is a peer-review process conducted by a trained ADI assessor over a period of two to four days. Currently there are 155 ADI-accredited assistance dog programs in the world.

About UDS Foundation

UDS Foundation is a Lancaster, PA-based organization whose mission is to improve the lives of people with physical and age-related disabilities. UDS accomplishes that by providing a variety of home- and community-based services to help people with disabilities enjoy safer, happier, and more independent lives in the comfort of their homes. Incorporated in 1970, UDS has evolved from a small organization to a company providing a network of 12 different programs through several nonprofit and for-profit entities. UDS serves individuals with disabilities, including the aging and veterans, throughout Pennsylvania and coordinates a network of business partners and satellite offices in multiple counties. For more information, visit www.udservices.org.

About Assistance Dogs International

Assistance Dogs International (ADI) is a worldwide coalition of non-profit organizations that raise, train and place assistance dogs. The mission of ADI is to foster a collaborative global community dedicated to the highest standards of excellence for the assistance dog industry. For more information, visit www.assistancedogsinternational.org or contact Chris Diefenthaler, ADI's Executive Director at chris@assistancedogsinternational.org or 419-350-5788.

Media Contact

Lori Breece

717-715-8753

lorib@udservices.org

Ballast Rock, the diversified investment management firm, today announced 2023 year-end performance of its two multifamily real estate funds.

Sunbelt Multifamily Fund II (SB2), which launched in 2021, closed the acquisition of its final asset in early 2023, bringing total assets in the fund to $105,363,000. The fund has acquired a total of 1,049 units, with an equity contribution of $52,452,012.

The fund generated cash from operations for its investors of 7% in 2023. SB2 maintained an average capitalization rate of 7.2% for the year, with 7% in the first half and 7.4% in the second half of 2023. SB2 paid 7.5% from income to investors in 2021, 7.5% from income in 2022, and now will have paid 7% to investors in 2023 from income.

"In a challenging year when we saw many private equity real estate funds calling additional capital or halting payments, we were pleased that our focus on workforce multifamily in high growth states in the Southeast delivered results for our investors," said Thomas Carroll, CEO of Ballast Rock. "This performance is a shared success, since all of our principals invest our own capital alongside our investors, aligning our interests, and delivering safe, clean, and affordable homes for residents in our communities."

Ballast Rock had anticipated launching Sunbelt Multifamily III (SB3) in 2023 but did not identify a property that met its strict qualitative and quantitative underwriting standards. Over the course of 2023, the company performed diligence on more than 350 potential assets but chose to not pursue any acquisitions based on price discipline and the expectation that sponsors that bought assets in 2021 and 2022 at the wrong price with too much floating rate debt are likely going to need to sell in 2024 and 2025 as they will be unable to refinance those deals on economic terms. Ballast Rock's Atlanta-based real estate team continues to identify and perform diligence on several properties and anticipates a launch of the $100 million Sunbelt Multifamily Fund III in 2024, subject to finding the right properties at the right price.

"We remain committed that our focus on workforce housing in the Southeast is the right strategy, and we anticipate that there will be excellent opportunities to acquire the right properties at attractive valuations in the coming months," said Ian Garcia, COO of Ballast Rock Real Estate. "We will continue to actively underwrite assets, but we will never sacrifice our diligence or discipline."

Ballast Rock launched Sunbelt Multifamily Fund I (SB1) in 2019 and between February 2019 and January 2021 acquired nine properties totaling 1,110 apartment units for $63,630,000. SB1 began dispositions in early 2022, generating gross proceeds of $60,450,000 from the first four properties sold. The 593 apartment units involved were acquired at an average cost of $53,583 per unit and sold at an average cost of $101,939 per unit. Thus far SB1 has made a total of $41,963,582 of investor distributions on $30,000,000 of equity invested in the fund. Ballast Rock anticipates exiting the remaining five assets in SB1 opportunistically over the next 12 to 18 months.

Also in 2023, Ballast Rock launched Ballast Rock Capital, its broker-dealer. Ballast Rock Capital is a member of the Financial Regulatory Authority (FINRA) and the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC) and is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

About Ballast Rock Group

Ballast Rock Group is an integrated investment management company specializing in delivering risk-adjusted returns, accurate, and timely advice, high quality frequent reporting, and direct access to management. Ballast Rock Group operates Ballast Rock Asset Management, Ballast Rock Private Wealth, and Ballast Rock Capital. Ballast Rock Asset Management comprises Ballast Rock Real Estate, which includes the firm's Sunbelt multifamily real estate funds, and Ballast Rock Ventures, comprising venture capital and private equity teams. Ballast Rock Private Wealth is a registered investment advisor, with a focus on alternative strategies. Ballast Rock Capital is awaiting approval to become a FINRA-registered broker-dealer. Ballast Rock is committed to being a driver of positive change. The diversity of our team members brings valuable new perspectives to our industry for the benefit of our stakeholders and the broader community.

Investment Disclosure

The information contained in this press release has been prepared by Ballast Rock Holdings LLC ("Ballast Rock") without reference to any particular reader's investment requirements or financial situation. Potential investors are encouraged to consult with professional tax, legal, and financial advisors before making any investment into a private offering of securities. An investment in private securities would be speculative and would involve a high degree of risk. Investors must be prepared to bear the economic risk of such an investment for an indefinite period of time and be able to withstand a total loss of their investment. Please consider carefully the investment objectives, risks, transaction costs, and other expenses related to an investment prior to deciding to invest. Ballast Rock Capital LLC ("BRC"), MEMBER: FINRA / SIPC. BRC's registered head office is 460 King Street, Suite 200, Charleston, SC, 29403. Tel: 800-204-2513. To check background information about BRC and its representatives, visit FINRA's BrokerCheck. Please see important disclosure information in our Form CRS.

Media Contact

press@ballastrock.com

Today, the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) announced another record year for organ transplants, with 46,632 transplants performed in 2023 thanks to the selfless and generous gifts from donors. In addition, 10,824 Black patients received transplants last year, more than any year prior.

UNOS, the engine that powers the national organ donation and transplantation system under contract with and oversight from the federal government, manages the national transplant waitlist that matches patients with lifesaving organs. UNOS tracks the number of transplants performed for each organ and identifies trends in organ donation and transplantation.

Last year marked the 13th consecutive year of a record number of deceased donors. Additional milestones reached include:

• More than 16,000 individuals became deceased donors, making 39,679 deceased donor transplants possible. That's nearly a 9% increase from 2022.
• There were 10,660 liver transplants performed in 2023—the most ever performed in a single year.
• A 30% increase from 2022 in donors aged 65 years and older, representing a greater acceptance by the transplant community and candidates to receive organs from medically more complex donors.

"It is important to remember that these milestones are more than just numbers—they reflect real people who can go on hikes with their spouse again and got to spend the holidays with their loved ones," said Maureen McBride, Ph.D., CEO of UNOS. "I also want to recognize the selfless donors whose generosity made these life-changing transplants possible. I am grateful and thankful for each donor and know that as long as we remember the profound ripple effect of their decision, we will never lose sight of our mission."

The increase in transplants in 2023 is the result of several initiatives that have helped increase equity and enhance patient access to transplants, which were driven by the organ donation and transplant community and the Health Resources and Services Administration, the federal government agency overseeing the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN). Some of these policy updates and technological advancements include removing race from kidney function measurements, increasing equity in lung transplants through continuous distribution, and making it easier for transplant programs to filter organ offers so an available organ is transplanted more quickly.

The transplant community's commitment to continuous system improvements drives the year-over-year increases in the number of lifesaving and lifechanging transplants performed. These improvements are necessary to ensure that each of the more than 103,000 patients on the national waitlist has an opportunity to receive a transplant.

UNOS continues to work with the organ donation and transplant community and the federal government to advance its Action Agenda, a series of reforms to improve the organ donation and transplant system. This includes advocating for access to pre-waitlist data to enhance equity and to make it easier for organs to be transported in the cabin of commercial airplanes to help reduce the time it takes for an organ to get to a patient. Additionally, the OPTN is spearheading the Expeditious Task Force that is taking massive steps forward to reduce organ non-use.

"Patients and donors motivate us to work collaboratively with the organ donation and transplant community and the government to strengthen the system," continued McBride. "That way even more patients can access and receive high-quality and equitable transplant care."

For more information on 2023's organ donation and transplant numbers and to learn more about the patients and donors, please visit: unos.org.

About UNOS

United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) is a non-profit, charitable organization that serves as the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) under contract with the federal government. The OPTN helps create and define organ allocation and distribution policies that make the best use of donated organs. This process involves continuously evaluating new advances and discoveries so policies can be adapted to best serve patients waiting for transplants. All transplant programs and organ procurement organizations throughout the country are OPTN members and are obligated to follow the policies the OPTN creates for allocating organs.

Media Contact

Anne Paschke

804-782-4730

anne.paschke@unos.org

Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West announces today the debut of Inner Light: The Art of Tom Gilleon, celebrating a painter who has become one of the most respected masters in contemporary Western art. Before dedicating himself to fine art in the 1990s, Gilleon was an accomplished illustrator who worked on NASA’s Apollo and Saturn space programs and then embarked on a successful career with Walt Disney Imagineering, where he was mentored by several of their master artists. The exhibition opens on January 16, 2024, and will continue through August 2024.

Inner Light: The Art of Tom Gilleon features luminous colors and authentic portrayals of Native Americans and iconic Western structures and landscapes. The exhibition presents a 70-painting career retrospective featuring 12 original paintings on special loan from Walt Disney Imagineering. Gilleon worked alongside Walt Disney Imagineering art legend Herb Ryman and other greats, and his art helped develop the concepts for Imagineering’s projects worldwide.

Inner Light: The Art of Tom Gilleon is co-curated by Tim Peterson, Western Spirit Trustee, and Richard King of KingArts art agency, in collaboration with Western Spirit.

Noted writer, Gilleon collector, and friend Patrick Hemingway described Gilleon’s sophisticated use of colors as “magical elegance” and compared him to modern greats Edward Hopper and Mark Rothko. In addition to showcasing paintings created throughout Gilleon’s Western art career, the exhibit also presents the world premiere of Spirit Catcher, his stunning 22-minute digital painting triptych that magically morphs before viewers’ eyes, created with former Disney Imagineer and concept designer Marshall Monroe of Marshall Monroe Magic.

Western Spirit’s CEO and Executive Director Todd Bankofier says, “Tom Gilleon’s mastery of light and the emotional resonance it brings to his art is remarkable. Inner Light is a testament to his profound ability to infuse his creations with the very essence of the American West, inviting viewers to explore hidden treasures of the soul within the landscapes we often take for granted.”

“The Tom Gilleon retrospective will be a major exhibition by one of the greatest living American artists today,” notes Tim Peterson. “His artistic odyssey is a brilliant fusion of nature, light, and spirit that transcends traditional artistic boundaries.”

Inner Light: The Art of Tom Gilleon promises to be an immersive experience, allowing visitors to delve into the heart of the American West and discover a world where nature and the human spirit are harmoniously intertwined. Wall signage throughout the show features Gilleon’s own words, explaining his life and work directly to museum visitors.

Western Spirit features regularly changing and permanent exhibits of Western and Native American art and artifacts, entertaining events, and informative programs that bring the West’s heritage, culture, and community to life. Other current special exhibitions are Werner Segarra: Vaqueros de la Cruz del Diablo, through February 25, 2024; William Matthews: Decades, through April 28, 2024; the Elliott Southwest Women Art collection preview, through Fall 2023; and Dazzling Array: The Richard A. Gates Collection of Native American Jewelry, currently on display.

Permanent exhibitions continuously on display include Canvas of Clay: Hopi Pottery Masterworks from The Allan and Judith Cooke Collection, featuring 65 of the finest examples of Hopi pottery spanning six centuries; the Frankie and Howard Alper Collection of John Coleman Bronzes; and The Abe Hays Family Spirit of the West Collection, a showcase of more than 1,400 saddles, spurs, cowboy gear and other Old West objects.

For more information on Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West, visit scottsdalemuseumwest.org.

About Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West

Western Spirit is located in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale. Within months of opening in January 2015, Western Spirit qualified as a Smithsonian Affiliate. The museum has also received the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence, enjoys a 4.5 out of 5-star rating on both TripAdvisor and Yelp, and is continually recognized as one of the “Nation’s Best Western Museums” by True West magazine, most recently named the #1 Western Museum in the United States for 2023. Also, named to Phoenix Magazine’s 2022 Best of The Valley Readers' Choice: “Best Museum You Probably Don’t Know About”, Arizona Foothill’s Best of Our Valley: “Best Museum” & “Best Annual Charity Event: Saddle Up” and the winner of Your Valley’s “East Valley Favorites” for the museum category. For more information, visit www.scottsdalemuseumwest.org.

Media Contact

Alison Rose

48 West Agency

602-300-3433

alison@48westagency.com

The United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) has hired Alicia Hennie as its new vice president for external affairs. 

As the leader of the external affairs team, Hennie advocates for impactful policies and legislation on behalf of transplant patients with the mission of saving as many lives as possible. She’s responsible for strengthening and growing relationships with federal and state government and regulatory officials, as well as patient groups and industry groups.

Hennie joins UNOS with more than two decades of public policy and advocacy experience. She previously served as a presidential appointee at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and has worked for the Senate Aging Committee and the Senate HELP Committee. More recently, she held senior government affairs roles at PhRMA and Varian, a Siemens Healthineers Company.

“Alicia has been advocating for patients for nearly 20 years and will be a great champion for our nation’s transplant patients and organ donors,” said UNOS Chief of Staff Julie Nolan, who previously held the vice president of external affairs role. “I’m confident her experience and relationships will drive meaningful changes that will strengthen the organ donation and transplant system, helping more patients get the lifesaving transplants they need.”

Hennie is based in Washington, D.C. She has a bachelor’s degree in history from Wheaton College.

About UNOS

United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) is the mission-driven non-profit serving as the nation’s transplant system under contract with the federal government. We lead the network of transplant hospitals, organ procurement organizations, and thousands of volunteers who are dedicated to honoring the gifts of life entrusted to us and to making lifesaving transplants possible for patients in need. Working together, we leverage data and advances in science and technology to continuously strengthen the system, increase the number of organs recovered and the number of transplants performed, and ensure patients across the nation have equitable access to transplant.

Media Contact

Anne Paschke

804-782-4730

anne.paschke@unos.org