Newsroom

View news releases and announcements distributed by EZ Newswire, the trusted source for business news.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

March 13, 2025 10:16 AM

EDT

•

NEW YORK, NY

Lucra and Play Social to Bring Digital Competition to Play Playground Nashville

Lucra, a leading provider of social gamification technology, and Play Social, creators of immersive hospitality experiences, today announced a partnership that will digitally enhance the competitive experience at Play Playground Nashville, the company’s latest entertainment concept in downtown Nashville.

Through this partnership, Play Social will begin testing Lucra's proprietary gamification software to introduce friendly, trackable competitions into the Play Playground guest experience. The integration will allow guests to participate digitally through the venue’s mobile platform, adding a new interactive layer to group outings and celebrations.

This partnership marks Lucra's first venture into the Tennessee market, a significant expansion given Nashville's position as one of the fastest-growing entertainment markets in the U.S. The city attracted more than 17 million visitors last year, generating more than $11 billion dollars in tourism revenue.

"By bringing offline competitions online in a safe and trackable way, we're adding an entirely new dimension to Play Playground's already dynamic entertainment experience," said Dylan Robbins, founder and CEO of Lucra. "Our platform increases customer dwell time and on-site spending. Venues typically generate between 30 to 60 cents per minute of guest attendance, presenting a significant revenue opportunity."

"Nashville is a city that thrives on creativity, community, and unforgettable experiences," said Jennifer Worthington, CEO of Play Social "By partnering with Lucra, we're not only creating an engaging competitive experience but also gaining valuable analytics and insights to better serve our guests, whether they're celebrating with friends or looking for new ways to connect."

The integration represents another milestone for Lucra in the $25 billion loyalty industry, adding to its partnerships with 16 enterprise brands, including Dave & Buster's, TouchTunes, and Five Iron Golf. The platform bridges the gap between traditional loyalty programs and gamified experiences, particularly appealing to younger audiences seeking digitally-enhanced, competitive, and social experiences.

About Lucra

Lucra is the leading technology provider of social gamification services. Its aim is to bring offline competitions online, and to create a safe, trustworthy, and trackable experience for consumers and clients. Delivered via a white-label, native Software Development Kit (SDK), clients are able to embed Lucra’s gamification engine directly into their mobile app or website. The technology facilitates low-to-no stakes competitions for cash, credit, or coupons to create a gamified loyalty experience for customers. Lucra helps to keep the fun and funds inside of its partners’ ecosystems, allowing clients to drive incremental traffic, increase dwell time, and unlock new revenue streams. For more information, visit www.lucrasports.com.

About Play Social

Play Social's mission is to bring people together through magical, immersive and gamified theatrical hospitality experiences. With its team of hospitality innovators, designers, fabricators and social scientists, the company is establishing a global foundation of immersive entertainment venues. For more information, visit www.playplayground.com.

Media Contact

Michael Madding
michael@lucrasports.com

March 12, 2025 5:02 PM

EDT

•

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates

Solomia Home's Versace Showroom Conquers the World at International Property Awards 2025

Solomia Home, a trailblazer in luxury interior design, has cemented its place among the world's elite. On February 20, 2025, at the illustrious International Property Awards in London, the firm's Versace Home showroom clinched two prestigious titles: Best Retail Interior Arabia and Best International Retail Interior. This triumph follows their December 2024 victory for Best Retail Interior Dubai, which propelled them onto the global stage, affirming their mastery in crafting spaces that redefine opulence.

A Symphony of Luxury and Innovation

The Versace Home showroom is a breathtaking testament to grandeur, where every detail exudes sophistication and craftsmanship. Modern architectural lines are a canvas for Versace's iconic signatures—the Medusa head, Barocco flourishes, and Greca prints—reimagined with a contemporary edge. An immersive sanctuary marries the brand's storied heritage with cutting-edge design, offering visitors an unparalleled luxury experience.

Among the standout features is the Medusa Gorgon logo, sculpted from Pure Black marble with deep milling, its matte, porous finish radiating nobility. Positioned asymmetrically on a corner wall, it defies convention to embody Versace's bold modernity. This innovative approach extends to the showroom's restructured first floor—initially a single level, now crowned with a second tier to showcase the Outdoor collection. Muted tones and high ceilings contrast with a deep black backdrop, weaving light and shadow into a mesmerizing visual narrative. Even the front door handle, forged in galvanized black steel, underscores the meticulous curation of this extraordinary space.

The Visionaries Behind the Victory

This triumph is the fruit of relentless dedication by Solomia Home’s founder Dmytro Korotchuk, CEO Luca Bacci, and creative designer Svitlana Antonovych. Their synergy has birthed a showroom that transcends mere aesthetics, elevating it to a new echelon of lifestyle design.

Svitlana Antonovych reflects, "The Versace Home showroom envelops visitors in an unforgettable journey through the brand's essence. Each zone—from the lavish living spaces to the refined bedrooms—amplifies Versace's versatility and grandeur." She highlights the painstaking effort behind the ceiling-mounted Medusa head, a centrepiece that demanded precision. "We oversaw every detail, visiting production sites to match our vision. When flaws surfaced near completion, Luca Bacci refined them—an unforgettable moment of commitment."

Global Acclaim and Timeless Philosophy

Judged by over 50 international experts, the International Property Awards lauded the showroom for its seamless fusion of contemporary luxury with Versace's legendary DNA. This dual victory marks Solomia Home as a global pacesetter, catering to elite clients who value innovation anchored in timeless style.

“We embrace the latest trends while staying true to enduring solutions,” Svitlana Antonovych explains. “This balance ensures our designs are both functional and supremely comfortable. Fashion may fade, but style is eternal—a principle that guides every choice we make for our discerning clients.”

About Solomia Home

Headquartered in Dubai, Solomia Home specializes in luxury retail and residential interiors. It collaborates with iconic brands like Versace to redefine high-end living. The company's portfolio reflects a relentless pursuit of excellence, blending innovation with sophistication to create inspiring spaces. For more information, visit https://www.solomia-home.ae.

Media Contact

Dmytro Verzhykovskyi
info@seoexpertorangecounty.com

March 12, 2025 1:47 PM

EDT

•

LONG BEACH, CA

Dignity Living CEO: We Are Cambodian American and the Time to Change Our Survivor Status Is Now

For decades, the Cambodian American community has carried the weight of its past—a history defined by survival against unimaginable odds. But today, Jeff Lam, CEO of Dignity Living and a prominent community mentor, is urging a transformation—a true shift in mindset that goes far beyond charity or nostalgic remembrance.

“We are not Cambodian. We are not simply Americans. We are the Cambodian American community,” Lam asserts, encapsulating the dual identity that he believes should drive the future.

“We’re on the cusp of great change,” Lam says. “But it’s up to us to shape what that change looks like. Will we remain stuck in a cycle of blame and victimhood? Or will we honor the resilience of our ancestors by shifting our mindset toward one of success, ownership, and contribution to this country?”

While the Cambodian American community has its share of success stories, many of those who achieve personal success leave, creating a void in the very places that need them most. This absence of role models reinforces a cycle where young people struggle to envision a future beyond poverty, low-income jobs, and government assistance.

Lam understands this firsthand. He once distanced himself from his Cambodian roots, driven by a desire to escape the struggles he saw growing up. But as he built his career and engaged in mentorship, he began to see the impact of staying connected. “The day I looked back to my community—the day I mentored just one person—it changed everything for me. Seeing someone from my community thrive because of the support I could offer made me realize I could never just focus on myself again,” he states.

Lam has since committed to expanding mentorship efforts, creating opportunities for young Cambodian Americans to connect with successful individuals who can guide them. His vision becomes clearer every day, with one thing in mind: the community must build itself up from within rather than waiting for outside intervention.

The Cambodian American community is not the only one that has struggled; many other immigrant communities have faced similar challenges in the past. However, Lam has seen a clear distinction in how different groups have responded with resilience-driven success. “Look at communities that have faced hardship. They came together, helped each other, built businesses, and created generational wealth. They didn’t let their history define them; they used it as fuel,” he says.

For Cambodian Americans, the struggle has often been compounded by systemic barriers. Despite being categorized as Asian Americans—a demographic that statistically overperforms in income and education—the reality is completely different for Cambodians. Many remain in low-income neighborhoods, dependent on welfare programs, and caught in cycles of financial stagnation. For some, the fear of losing government assistance discourages them from pursuing better opportunities. If earning an extra few hundred dollars means losing food stamps or subsidized housing, the incentive to push forward weakens.

Lam describes a common trap: “If someone is getting $800 a month in welfare but working a full-time job only brings in $1,200, the immediate thought is, ‘Why should I work?’ That short-term mindset ignores the long-term growth opportunity that could come from building a career, gaining skills, and increasing income over time.”

Then there’s the influence of fast money. In many Cambodian American communities, the most visible success stories are not doctors or entrepreneurs but individuals who have made quick money. “When the guy who made his money through illegal means has a flashy car and expensive jewelry, while the hardworking student can barely afford bus fare, what message does that send to our youth?” asks Lam.

For him, the solution is clear: mentorship, community reinvestment, and an unwavering commitment to changing the way Cambodian Americans see themselves. “We survived unimaginable horrors,” Lam says. “No food, no water, forced labor, torture. If we apply that same survival instinct to the opportunities in front of us today, we will be unstoppable. Through this, we could all live the true American Dream.” His goal is to connect successful Cambodian Americans with those still finding their way, ensuring that the next generation has tangible role models to look up to.

As Cambodian Americans enter their third generation in the U.S., Lam offers a reminder: “To disregard what it means to be American is to disrespect the country that gave us a future. But to erase our heritage is to dishonor the sacrifices of our ancestors. The only way forward is to embrace both identities and build something even stronger. We are Cambodian Americans, and the time to move beyond our survivor status is now.”

About Dignify Living

Founded by Cambodian American Jeff Lam, Dignity Living provides a high-quality Level 4 residential setting for developmentally disabled men and women with physical or behavioral challenges. We offer a warm, nurturing environment where individuals feel safe and supported as they develop self-help skills, independent living abilities, behavioral control, and healthy habits. For more information, visit https://www.dignity-living.com.

Media Contact

Jeff Lam
jeff.lam@jml-associates.com

March 11, 2025 10:31 PM

EDT

•

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates

Mintlayer's Strength Lies in One Key Factor: Its Community

Mintlayer has set itself apart by building a financial ecosystem driven by its community. With over 86,000 followers on Twitter and 40,000 members on Telegram, it is clear that its success is directly tied to everyone who engages, contributes, and invests in its vision. Unlike other projects where leadership remains distant, Mintlayer’s founder, Enrico Rubboli, personally interacts with stakeholders daily, responding to messages and participating in discussions without relying on intermediaries, which is uncommon for visionaries of his stature.

The strength of this approach is evident in the numbers. Incredibly, 100 million ML coins have been staked, with over 5,500 delegators and 400 validators actively taking part in the network. Such a level of affinity positions users as vital, active contributors responsible for its encouraging growth. Mintlayer's fractional ownership model expands access to investment opportunities, allowing for extensive participation in real estate, bonds, and tokenized securities in ways that were previously unattainable.

In addition, Mintlayer has been bringing institutions into the fold by creating new channels to expand its reach, working relentlessly alongside investors, further strengthening its foundation. Its expansion into renewable energy and commodities adds another dimension, opening the door for broader interaction in asset-backed investments.

Remarkably, while others are solely focused on scaling their businesses from the top down, Mintlayer follows a brilliant strategy by reversing the entire equation. Its ingenious way involves developing from the ground up, catalyzed by organic and authentic engagement. At the end of the day, Mintlayer is committed to acknowledging—and more so, upholding—its esteemed supporters because they are the very reason behind its masterfully disruptive, radical, and game-changing existence.

About Mintlayer

Mintlayer is a Bitcoin Layer 2 sidechain that enables native Bitcoin cross-chain swaps (Atomic Swaps), enhancing security and eliminating counterparty risks without the need for wrapped tokens. For more information, visit https://www.mintlayer.org.

Media Contact

Sheeraz Hasan
sheeraz@hollywood.ai

March 11, 2025 7:51 PM

EDT

•

ST. PETERSBURG, FL

Bridging the Flood Insurance Gap: Flood Risk Solutions’ Mission Fulfilled Through Latest Innovative Program

With the longstanding flood insurance coverage gap, Flood Risk Solutions (FRS) has committed to developing an affordable, accessible solution for homeowners in low-to-moderate risk areas.

Flooding is one of the most prevalent and costly natural disasters in the United States, yet only a small percentage of homeowners have flood insurance coverage. When a flood occurs, this gap could financially devastate millions. Flood Risk Solutions, aiming to make flood insurance more accessible and affordable for residential and commercial property owners nationwide, has introduced the Preferred Risk Policy™ (PRP).

Since Brendan Moeller and Eugene Podokshik founded the company in 2017, FRS has consistently offered tech-savvy distribution partners flood programs. It has leveraged proprietary technology to deliver these through a user-friendly web-based portal and API integrations.

Years of providing flood insurance integrations have enabled FRS to recognize the factors that have fed the decades-old flood insurance gap. Firstly, due to concerns about cost, over 80% of households in the U.S. lack flood insurance. There’s also a common misconception that homeowners’ standard insurance policies cover flood damage. Many forgo separate flood coverage because of this.

In addition, many existing flood insurance products are designed to meet the requirements for mortgage compliance. What does this mean? The products primarily focus on high-risk zones and overlook the needs of those in low-to-moderate-risk areas. A significant segment of the population is, therefore, not adequately protected. The fact that more than 40% of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) flood losses occur outside high-risk zones highlights the problem with this model.

Curiously, although flood events have only increased in frequency and severity, the flood insurance market has remained relatively stagnant for decades. Its size has barely kept pace with inflation. The market has struggled to expand even as private insurers entered. Podokshik has seen how the entrance of private insurers has merely redistributed market share rather than expanding overall coverage.

“The industry thought the market could grow as private insurers have shown more interest in providing flood coverage in recent years,” said Podokshik. “But in reality, actual growth has been minimal.” FRS has acknowledged that innovative solutions are needed to bridge the existing insurance gap, particularly in regard to the phenomenon where a substantial portion of flood losses occur in areas not usually considered high-risk.

As a technology-driven Managing General Agent (MGA), FRS developed the Preferred Risk Policy to offer affordable flood coverage for properties in non-high-hazard flood zones. This innovative program provides reasonable coverage limits to address a market need traditional policies—which usually start at higher premiums and coverage amounts—have failed to meet.

Obtaining a PRP is easy. Premiums start as low as $50 and can go up to $200, depending on the selected coverage limits, with payment plans available starting at only $5 per month. A consumer quoting tool can also be embedded on agents’ websites where owners can then obtain quotes and bind policies directly in under a minute. Agents, MGAs, and homeowner insurers have the ability to partner with FRS and batch rate entire books of business, and FRS actively seeks such partnership to enhance accessibility and efficiency. This streamlined approach is made possible by advanced flood insurance analytics and modeling.

Flood Risk Solutions can effectively bridge the flood insurance gap through the Preferred Risk Policy, given that it can make coverage more affordable and accessible to homeowners previously underserved by traditional policies. The lower coverage limits cater to those who may not require extensive protection but still wish to safeguard against potential flood-related damages.

The PRP’s impact can be immense. Besides empowering individual policyholders, communities can become more resilient to flood events. The financial burden on government disaster relief programs and taxpayers can then also be reduced. In addition, the overall risk pool can diversify, as more homeowners in low-to-moderate-risk areas obtain coverage. This could lead to more stable and reduced premiums. Essentially, sharing the risks across the board aligns with the foundational principles of insurance and nurtures a more prepared society when facing natural disasters.

Podokshik stresses, “This serves as a strong test case for whether the flood insurance gap can ever be closed. If demand doesn’t increase at these price points, we may need to reconsider our approach. For example, given that over 40% of flood losses occur outside designated flood zones, and people still aren’t purchasing affordable coverage, we might have to fund disaster recovery through other means.”

While the longstanding flood insurance gap remains, Flood Risk Solutions has launched the Preferred Risk Policy to contribute to addressing it by offering affordable, accessible, and tailored coverage options that protect individual homeowners and help achieve the broader goal of making society more resilient against flooding events.

About Flood Risk Solutions (FRS)

Flood Risk Solutions (FRS) is a leading provider of state-of-the-art insurance solutions designed to mitigate residential and commercial risks across the United States. Our core mission is to offer not only flood insurance products but also a comprehensive suite of solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of our clients. For more information, visit https://www.floodsol.com.

Media Contact

Emily Kalmbach
ekalmbach@xptholdco.com

March 11, 2025 9:00 AM

EDT

•

SAN JOSE, CA

KOBIL Ventures Launches Venture Studio

Constant updates, cyberattacks, fragmented applications with limited interoperability, and new demands driven by artificial intelligence—these challenges are reshaping the billion-dollar app industry. KOBIL Ventures, backed by KOBIL Capital, a Swiss family office managing over $600 million in assets, is addressing these fundamental industry shifts.

KOBIL Ventures is launching its Venture Studio to accelerate the development of new integrated mobile apps. Beyond seed funding and hands-on support, founders get access to KOBIL’s market-tested SuperApp Platform—making it faster and easier to build, scale, and securely unify fragmented services into one seamless app experience.

KOBIL Group, a global leader in digital identity and security solutions, developed KOBIL SuperApp infrastructure. According to the consulting firm Gartner, it is one of the few SuperApp platforms available on the market. Among other applications, it powers the world’s largest CityApp, which serves more than five million registered users.

“We have invested over $100 million in developing our SuperApp infrastructure, and for the first time, we are opening it up to aspiring entrepreneurs,” says Ismet Koyun, founder, CEO, and sole owner of KOBIL Group. “We believe that the entrepreneurs we support will not only be able to bring their ideas to market faster but will also be better positioned to focus on what truly drives a startup’s success—meeting the needs of their customers.”

One of KOBIL Capital's investments is Istanbul Senin, a service with over five million registered users, that allows access to all important city services and enables secure transactions across the city of Istanbul. The app is currently being expanded throughout Turkiye.

Interested founders can apply via the website: www.kobilventures.com.

What does the program offer?

Entrepreneurs in the program get comprehensive support—from idea to launch, scaling globally, and raising capital:

Funding: Access to Silicon Valley and Europe's seed and venture capital networks for further investment rounds.
Technology: Access to the KOBIL SuperApp platform, equipped with state-of-the-art security and technology, including integrated modules for secure payments, communication, contract signing, and digital identity management—fully compliant with data protection and legal requirements.
Expertise: Intensive mentoring from experienced industry experts and advisors.
Market Access: Entry into existing digital ecosystems and SuperApps.

What are the benefits for founders?

This program helps founders launch market-ready apps in weeks, without traditional technical hurdles or expensive native development processes.

Key Advantages

Maximum focus on the idea rather than technology development and fundraising.
Higher chances of success thanks to a proven digital infrastructure.
Faster market entry and scalability.
Increased reach through access to established ecosystems.

About KOBIL Ventures

KOBIL Ventures is a Venture Studio headquartered in San Jose, Silicon Valley. It was founded and is backed by KOBIL Capital, a Swiss family office based in Zurich, Switzerland, managing over $600 million in assets. For more information, visit www.kobilventures.com

About KOBIL Group

KOBIL Group is a global leader in digital identity and mobile security solutions. Founded in 1986 by Ismet Koyun, KOBIL develops innovative solutions for application protection, user authentication, transaction authorization, and more. It is the only company worldwide that enables seamless identity and mobile security management across all platforms and communication channels.

KOBIL has pioneered data security innovations and remains at the forefront of next-generation security technologies. More than 1,000 organizations worldwide, including government agencies and major corporations such as Microsoft, Visa, Mastercard, Dropbox, Airbus, and Siemens, rely on KOBIL’s solutions. The company employs over 500 professionals, with headquarters in Worms, Germany, and additional offices in San Diego and San Jose (U.S.), Zurich (Switzerland), Istanbul (Turkiye), and London (UK). For more information, visit www.kobil.com.

Media Contact

Anirudh Ganesh
anirudh.ganesh@kobil.com

March 11, 2025 8:04 AM

EDT

•

VIENNA, Austria

American Kratom Association Side Event to Present Critical Scientific Update on Kratom at the 68th Session of the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs

The American Kratom Association (AKA) will host a side-event presentation titled “Kratom: A Critical Scientific Update on Safety and Potential Benefits for Consumers” at the 68th session of the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND). This session will feature leading scientists and researchers presenting the latest scientific data on kratom’s safety profile and potential benefits for consumers worldwide.

What: “Kratom: A Critical Scientific Update on Safety and Potential Benefits for Consumers” side event during the 68th session of the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs

When: Friday, March 14, 2025, at 10:00 AM CET

Where: UN Headquarters, Vienna, Austria – Room MOE07 (remote participation available via Zoom – access the link at https://www.protectkratom.org/uncnd)

Why: As international regulatory discussions continue regarding kratom, this expert-led presentation will provide critical, science-based insights into the plant’s pharmacology, safety, and consumer benefits. The event aims to inform global policymakers, researchers, and the media about the latest research findings and their implications for public health and regulatory decisions.

Who: Hosted by the American Kratom Association, this side event will feature renowned kratom scientists and researchers presenting their latest findings.

Media Opportunities:

Interviews with leading kratom scientists and policy experts
Access to the latest research on kratom’s safety and benefits
Live and recorded coverage available for remote media participation

Register & Media Contact:

For media inquiries, interview requests, or to confirm attendance, please contact press@americankratom.org.

About American Kratom Association (AKA)

The American Kratom Association (AKA), a consumer-based non-profit organization, advocates to protect the freedom of consumers to safely consume natural kratom as a part of their personal health and well-being regimen. AKA represents the nearly 20 million Americans who consume kratom safely each year. For more information, visit www.americankratom.org.

Media Contact

Mac Haddow
mhaddow@americankratom.org

March 10, 2025 7:20 PM

EDT

•

TALLINN, Estonia

Neironix Shares Insights on the Sustainability Paradox and Cryptocurrency's Role in Funding Green Technology Projects

Neironix, the first independent international rating agency for assessing investment risks in the blockchain economy, today shared insights on how cryptocurrency presents an interesting puzzle when it comes to helping the environment. While its virtual price drives the mining industry forward, mining crypto uses lots of electricity. But on the other hand, cryptocurrency and blockchain technology are helping fund and support many new green technology projects. Let's explore how this paradox works and what it means for our planet's future.

Understanding the Basic Problem

Mining cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin needs powerful computers that run 24/7. These computers use a lot of electricity. In many places, this electricity comes from burning coal or gas, which creates pollution. Many people have become worried about crypto's impact on climate change.

However, there's another side to this story that's making waves in 2025: cryptocurrency is becoming a powerful tool for funding green technology and environmental projects.

How Crypto is Funding Green Projects

Green technology ICOs and token companies working on environmental projects are now creating their cryptocurrencies or tokens to raise money. These "green ICOs" (initial coin offerings) let people invest directly in ecological projects. For example, some companies have created tokens to fund solar panel farms, while others use them to support wind energy projects.

Blockchain for Carbon Credits

The carbon credit market has found a new home on blockchain platforms. These digital systems make it easier to track and trade carbon credits. Companies can now buy and sell carbon offsets more efficiently, and everyone can see exactly where the money goes. This transparency helps ensure that environmental projects actually deliver what they promise.

Supporting Local Green Initiatives

Some cryptocurrencies are designed specifically to support local environmental projects. Communities can use these tokens to fund things like:

Community solar gardens
Local recycling programs
Tree planting initiatives
Clean water projects

Smart Contracts for Environmental Goals

Blockchain technology uses something called "smart contracts" to automatically release funds when certain environmental goals are met. Green projects only receive payment when they demonstrate real results. For instance, a tree-planting project might receive funding only after satellite images confirm new trees are growing.

Real-World Examples Making a Difference

Solar Mining Operations

Many crypto-mining companies are now building their solar farms. They use the energy to power their mining operations and sell extra electricity back to the local power grid. This helps make more renewable energy infrastructure that everyone can use.

Ocean Cleanup Programs

Several blockchain projects are funding ocean cleanup efforts. People can buy special tokens that directly support removing plastic from the oceans. The blockchain keeps track of how much plastic is collected, making sure the money is used effectively.

Reforestation Projects

Cryptocurrency investors are funding large-scale tree planting through blockchain platforms. These projects use satellite monitoring and local reports to track progress, all recorded on the blockchain where anyone can check it.

Overcoming the Energy Problem

While crypto continues to use significant energy, several solutions are emerging:

"Proof of Stake": Many cryptocurrencies are switching to a new system called "Proof of Stake" instead of the energy-hungry "Proof of Work." This change can reduce energy use by over 99%.
Renewable energy partnerships: Mining companies are partnering with renewable energy providers. This creates more demand for clean energy and helps fund new solar and wind farms.
Energy recycling: Some mining operations now use their excess heat to warm buildings or support agriculture in greenhouses. This turns what was wasted into a useful resource.

Looking to the Future

The relationship between cryptocurrency and environmental sustainability continues to evolve. While the energy use concern remains, the technology is proving valuable for:

Raising money for green projects
Making environmental initiatives more transparent
Supporting local sustainability efforts
Driving innovation in renewable energy

As we move forward in 2025, more environmental projects are finding ways to use blockchain technology and cryptocurrency to achieve their goals. The key is balancing the energy impact of crypto with its potential to fund and support important environmental work.

Making It Work Together

The success of this balance depends on several factors:

Continued development of energy-efficient blockchain technology
Growth of renewable energy sources for mining
Smart regulation that encourages green practices
Innovation in funding models for environmental projects

The cryptocurrency community is increasingly aware of its environmental responsibility. Many new projects now consider sustainability from the start rather than treating it as an afterthought.

Conclusion

While the debate about cryptocurrency's environmental impact continues, its role in funding green technology is becoming clearer. The technology that some feared would only harm the environment is now helping build a more sustainable future. This doesn't erase the energy concerns, but it shows how innovation can turn challenges into opportunities for positive change.

The key lesson from this paradox is that new technologies often have both positive and negative effects on our world. The goal isn't to accept or reject them but to guide their development in ways that benefit our planet and its people.

About Neironix

Neironix is the first international rating agency for the blockchain economy, providing private and institutional investors the necessary analytical data and effective decision-making tools to assess investment risk. Our mission is to become a global provider of financial and analytical information on the cryptocurrency markets necessary for making informed investment decisions and building long-term market strategies.

Media Contact

Ikrom Ergashev
ie@neironix.io

March 10, 2025 6:19 PM

EDT

•

DETROIT, MI

Major Lawsuit Filed After Systemic Child Sexual Abuse Allegations Continue to Mount Against Detroit Behavioral Institute and Its Parent Company Acadia Healthcare, Inc.

As a result of systemic sexual, physical, and psychological abuse, more than 40 former minor patients of Acadia Healthcare, Inc. (“Acadia”) have retained Stinar Gould Grieco & Hensley, PLLC, to seek justice for the devastating trauma they were subjected to as minors at Acadia’s behavioral health facilities in Detroit, Michigan. The abuse occurred at Detroit Behavioral Institute, which had its facilities at 15255 Mayfield Street and 3500 John R. Street in Detroit, MI. This action comes amid mounting legal challenges for Acadia nationwide, which faced nearly $500 million in recent jury awards nationwide related to abuse allegations at other facilities.

The allegations in this case involve a serial predatory staff member, a supervisor, who groomed and sexually abused numerous minor residents he was tasked with protecting. Survivors consistently report their experiences of not only being subjected to sexual abuse or rape, but being viciously retaliated against and punished by the perpetrators and other staff for reporting abuse, including death threats, being called “a rat,” and being physically attacked by staff members or by other residents who were sent by staff. The three plaintiffs Jane Does 1-3 who are the subject of the first lawsuit filed against Acadia and DBI were all teenagers when they were sexually abused by a male supervisor at the facility.

This lawsuit demands more than just financial compensation for victims – it seeks to fundamentally transform how behavioral health facilities for minors operate nationwide following a pattern of serious concerns about Acadia facilities and beyond:

In July 2022, a Senate Finance Committee report titled “Warehouses of Neglect” detailed systematic abuse in numerous Acadia youth residential treatment facilities across the country.
The company paid $19.85 million in a 2024 settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice over improper patient care for the period 2014-2017. Acadia announced the day following this settlement that it was still under investigation for similar claims after 2017.
Additional agencies, including the Veterans Administration, have recently announced investigations into similar improper patient care claims.
Multiple Acadia-owned youth mental health residential treatment facilities have been closed following allegations of systemic abuse and neglect in recent years, including DBI in 2022.

“The reprehensible abuse that took place at this facility traumatized and forever changed the lives of these girls. They were sent to the Detroit Behavioral Institute because it marketed itself as a place to nurture and develop children and teens, most of whom had troubled pasts. But what these children experienced instead was the worst kind of abuse, for many in a remote place far from home, where the most senior adults – including a supervisor – were sexually and psychologically abused with total impunity. The supervisor who sexually abused and raped the plaintiffs became so brazen about the abuse that he even dared some victims to report him, knowing that he could rely on his gang of staff colleagues to discredit the victims and cover up the abuse. This egregious case demands more than justice in the civil courts, we hope for criminal prosecutions as well,” said Martin D. Gould, Founding Partner at Stinar Gould Grieo & Hensley and one of the lead counsel on the case.

“The systemic failures at Acadia facilities represent an unacceptable breach of trust with society's most vulnerable children. Our goal is nothing less than to ensure that profit-driven corporations can no longer prioritize shareholder returns over patient safety when caring for at-risk youth. When it comes to ensuring survivors of sexual abuse obtain justice, it’s critical that legislators ensure fair and just laws are enacted which prohibit perpetrators and bad actors from getting away with such heinous conduct,” said Parker Stinar, Founding Partner at Stinar Gould Grieco & Hensley and co-lead counsel on the case.

The legal team leading these cases, which includes SGGH Founding Partners Martin Gould and Parker Stinar, will host a press conference on Tuesday, March 11, at the Sheraton Detroit Novi Hotel (First Floor – Ballroom A, 21111 Haggerty Road, Novi, MI 48375), where one of the survivors, Jane Doe 1, will be in attendance to share her story and the devastating impact of the abuse. At the press conference, the legal team will discuss:

Survivor experiences and impacts
Legal theories supporting the case
Demands for systematic reform
Pattern of institutional failure

Press Conference Details

Date: Tuesday, March 11, 2025
Time: 10:00 a.m. ET
Location: Sheraton Detroit Novi Hotel, First Floor – Ballroom A, 21111 Haggerty Road, Novi, MI 48375
Live Stream Link: https://www.youtube.com/live/gVU2gsyqDWs

Former patients of DBI or other Acadia behavioral health facilities with information about abuse are encouraged to contact Stinar Gould Grieco & Hensley, PLLC (www.sgghlaw.com) to discuss their legal rights.

About Stinar Gould Grieco & Hensley, PLLC

Stinar Gould Grieco & Hensley is a boutique national personal injury firm dedicated to advocating for victims of abuse and catastrophic injuries in high-stakes litigation. We pride ourselves on being Innovators of Law and Providers of Justice. Our attorneys have litigated and won cases nationwide, representing thousands of individuals, including hundreds of survivors of rape, sexual assault, and childhood sexual abuse in many of the highest profile abuse cases across the country. These cases include claims against institutions such as University of Michigan (Dr. Robert Anderson), Michigan State University (Dr. Larry Nasser), professional sports teams, Jeffrey Epstein, private and public schools, elite private boarding schools, orphanages, foster care programs, hospitals, mental health facilities, Fortune 500 companies, and numerous religious institutions and related entities. Recent successes include participating in global settlements valued at nearly $3 billion. For more information, visit https://www.sgghlaw.com.

Media Contact

Lynn Smith
lynn@lynnsmithtv.com

March 8, 2025 8:41 AM

EDT

•

LOS ANGELES, CA

Global Kratom Coalition Applauds Utah Legislature's Decision to Suspend HB 509; Encourages UDAF’s Drive To Stringently Enforce Current Kratom Regulations

The Global Kratom Coalition (GKC) commends the Utah Legislature for its decision to allow House Bill 509 (HB 509) to expire without moving to a floor vote, thereby avoiding onerous and vague pre-market approval requirements on a segment of kratom products in Utah. While the bill authors should be commended for their desire to strengthen Utah’s kratom regulations, HB 509 proposed pre-market approval requirements that go far beyond Federal regulations. This action would have impeded consumer access to demonstrably safe products and created a costly and overreaching bureaucracy.

"We appreciate the desire for the bill's sponsors to address safety concerns. However, suspending HB 509 represents a positive outcome for Utah consumers and the dietary supplement industry at large," said Matthew Lowe, Executive Director of the Global Kratom Coalition. "Enacting pre-market approval measures would have been contrary to federal law, specifically the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994, marking an unprecedented regulatory paradigm."

With the failure of HB 509, the GKC is encouraged by the Utah Department of Agriculture’s (UDAF) push to strengthen enforcement of the existing Kratom Consumer Protection Act (KCPA) through ensuring that all kratom products sold in the state are registered with UDAF and highly potent synthetic products like “7” are not sold in the state. This legislation, already in place, provides a framework for ensuring the safety and quality of kratom products. By enhancing enforcement efforts, UDAF can effectively weed out bad actors while supporting responsible businesses that comply with state regulations.

Funding for enforcement remains an issue in Utah. A recent survey showed that 64 percent of the kratom products sold in Utah are not registered with UDAF. Strong compliance through enforcement will ensure that all compliant kratom companies are properly registered with the state and will therefore pay their requisite registration fees which will in turn help better fund the program. Beyond this, the GKC fully supports the implementation of a tax on kratom products that would give the necessary funding to UDAF to help them better regulate the kratom marketplace. The GKC will continue to work with the legislature to consider a tax in coming legislative sessions.

"The marketplace in Utah will be made safer through enforcement of existing laws, which serve to protect consumers from harmful products like those containing elevated levels of 7-hydroxymitragynine," said Lowe. "By focusing on strict adherence to the KCPA and requiring product registration, along with comprehensive labeling and safety standards, Utah can maintain a safe and regulated kratom marketplace that meets the needs of consumers."

The Global Kratom Coalition remains committed to working collaboratively with legislators and stakeholders to promote sensible regulation that ensures public health and safety while preserving access to kratom for those who rely on it.

About the Global Kratom Coalition

The Global Kratom Coalition is an alliance of kratom consumers, experts, and industry leaders dedicated to protecting access to kratom while advancing scientific research, driving consumer education, and developing robust regulations to protect consumers. For more information, visit https://globalkratomcoalition.org.

Media Contact

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

March 7, 2025 4:15 PM

EDT

•

BANGKOK, Thailand

Organon and Partners Advance Women’s Health Innovation to Drive Economic and Social Growth in Southeast Asia

Recognizing the critical importance of women’s health in driving economic and social development, Organon (Thailand) Company Limited, in collaboration with Kenan Foundation Asia, the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) of Thailand, and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), held a roundtable discussion titled "Innovative Approaches to Women's Health", at the historic Neilson Hays Library in Bangkok.

This event, marking International Women’s Day (IWD), underscored a shared commitment to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Good Health and Wellbeing (SDG 3) and Gender Equality (SDG 5), while advancing the APEC Smart Families Policy.

The discussions addressed urgent women’s healthcare needs in Thailand and the broader ASEAN region—including Thailand’s concerning Caesarean section rate (34.8% of all births), Cambodia’s high maternal mortality rate (218 per 100,000 live births), and Lao PDR’s alarming teenage pregnancy rate (82 per 1,000 girls aged 15-19). Recognizing that these public health concerns are intrinsically linked to economic potential, the discussions underscored the significant opportunities that arise from investing in women's health and well-being.

Compelling evidence from the World Economic Forum, the McKinsey Health Institute, and the World Bank highlighted the potential to improve global GDP by trillions of dollars annually and increase workforce participation by up to 20% through improved access to quality healthcare for women. A case in point is the Philippines' Insular Life (inLife), which expanded its healthcare benefits to include comprehensive maternity coverage, resulting in a 64% female workforce and reduced turnover rates, demonstrating the tangible economic benefits of investing in women's health.

Koen C. Kruijtbosch, Managing Director of Organon Thailand, opened the discussion by stressing the far-reaching impact of women’s health on national development. He pointed out that Thailand’s pressing healthcare challenges, such as sustained low fertility rates, rising teenage pregnancies, and high caesarean section rates, pose significant implications not only for women’s health but also for the country’s workforce, healthcare system, and long-term development. He further emphasized the importance of investing in innovations to address these challenges to make women feel safe in their family planning journey. “These challenges go beyond individual health concerns—they affect families, communities, and the nation’s sustainable future. To address them, we must embrace innovation, not just in medical advancements but also in policies, service delivery, and education, ensuring that women and girls have the information and access they need to make well-informed healthcare choices,” he stated.

Dr. Nahathai Thewphaingarm, Vice Minister for the Office of the Prime Minister, emphasized women's health as a catalyst for transformation: “Women’s health must be seen as a driver for transformative societal change, promoting economic resilience, social equity, and shared prosperity. Ensuring access to reproductive healthcare is not just a health issue—it is essential for building stronger communities, fostering a more resilient workforce, and ensuring sustainable economic growth." She also underscored Thailand’s commitment to regional collaboration, particularly through the APEC Smart Families Policy, which provides an innovative approach to addressing demographic challenges while promoting gender equality and family well-being. “By investing in women's health, we are fundamentally investing in the future of our families, communities, and the nation,” Dr. Nahathai noted.

Moderated by Siriluck Chiengwong, Head of Office, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the roundtable focused on actionable solutions and cross-sector collaboration. During the roundtable discussion, Dr. Tavida Kamolvej, Deputy Governor of Bangkok, shared that the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has extended the operating hours of its Public Health Centers, particularly its Family Planning Clinics, to expand access to reproductive health services in Thailand. On weekdays, the closing time has been extended from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., with extended hours on weekends. This initiative seeks to provide accessible reproductive health services for all age groups, addressing barriers to care. Extending service hours is a vital step in Thailand’s nationwide effort to reduce unplanned pregnancies by improving awareness and access to family planning options.

Building on this discussion, the roundtable identified four key takeaways essential for advancing women’s healthcare in Thailand. First, participants emphasized the need for a more comprehensive approach to family planning, sexuality education, and sexual and reproductive health services that ensure accessibility and inclusivity. Second, the discussion highlighted the potential of digital solutions—including online platforms, mobile apps, AI, and telemedicine—for reporting, counseling, and expanding access to service provision. Third, advocating for family-friendly workplace policies, including parental leave, carer’s leave, and childcare assistance, was recognized as crucial to addressing Thailand’s demographic challenges. Finally, there was a clear demand and willingness for cross-sector collaboration to reduce fragmentation and drive cohesive, impactful efforts that will strengthen women’s healthcare systems and long-term well-being.

Khunying Kasama Varavarn Na Ayudhaya, Board of Trustees and Executive Committee, Kenan Foundation Asia, concluded the event with a call for continued collaboration. “Today, we discovered many solutions to the challenges, new things, and new friends. There is still room for more conversation and exchange. This is not an end but the beginning of further collaboration among all participants here.”

The outcomes of this roundtable will form the basis of a comprehensive policy white paper, part of the “Her Promise Grant” funded by Organon and implemented by Kenan Foundation Asia. This paper will serve as a roadmap for future collaborative efforts and investments in sustainable healthcare solutions across Southeast Asia.

About Organon

Organon is a global healthcare company formed to focus on improving the health of women throughout their lives. Organon has a portfolio of more than 60 medicines and products across a range of therapeutic areas. Led by the women’s health portfolio coupled with an expanding biosimilars business and stable franchise of established medicines. In addition, Organon is pursuing opportunities to collaborate with biopharmaceutical innovators looking to commercialize their products by leveraging its scale and presence in fast-growing international markets.

Organon has a global footprint with significant scale and geographic reach, world-class commercial capabilities, and approximately 9,300 employees with headquarters located in Jersey City, New Jersey.

For more information, visit https://www.organon.com and connect with us on LinkedIn and Instagram.

Media Contact

Kawita Noramung
kawita@echopr.co

March 7, 2025 1:25 PM

EDT

•

LOS ANGELES, CA

Global Kratom Coalition Applauds ReFuel Market for Removing Dangerous 7-Hydroxymitragynine Products

The Global Kratom Coalition (GKC) commends ReFuel Market for its promise to activist David Bregger to remove the prohibited product 7-Hydro from its Texas retail locations. The GKC also commends ReFuel for its pledge to eliminate synthetic 7-hydroxymitragynine products (also called “7”) in other states where the company does business.

The GKC’s recognition comes in response to a recent exposé by Houston Chronicle columnist Chris Tomlinson, highlighting the proliferation of illegal 7 products in Texas. In his column, Tomlinson specifically named ReFuel Market as a retailer selling products branded 7-Hydro marketed by The Collective Group, LLC (doing business as Real Botanicals), manufactured by Charlotte Extraction Labs LLC in Pineville, NC. A "secret shopper" investigation conducted by the Global Kratom Coalition—a central part of the story—confirmed the sale of these dangerous products at multiple ReFuel locations.

ReFuel’s decision follows a call to action from activist David Bregger, who is dedicated to addressing the dangers of mislabeled and highly potent synthetic substances falsely marketed as kratom. Bregger, a retired businessman turned activist, has made it his mission to eliminate illegal access to dangerous products like 7 after his own son passed away due to complications involving unlabeled, highly potent substances.

Concerned that a reputable retailer like ReFuel was selling 7 products, Bregger contacted ReFuel CEO Mark Jordan on February 26. Just one day later, Jordan responded positively with a commitment to remove these products from Texas locations, with a full nationwide removal to follow. This shows ReFuel’s and Jordan’s commitment to ensuring their customers' well-being and safety.

“This is a significant victory for consumer safety and a testament to the power of advocacy and investigative journalism,” said Matthew Lowe, Executive Director of the Global Kratom Coalition. “ReFuel Market should be commended for recognizing the dangers of these products and taking swift action to remove them. Their leadership sets a precedent for other retailers, manufacturers, and law enforcement to follow.”

Products known as 7 are often deceptively branded as kratom and are synthetic derivatives that pose serious risks to consumers. Unlike natural kratom, which is derived from plant leaves and contains a spectrum of naturally occurring alkaloids, these synthetic compounds are far more potent, highly addictive, and associated with severe health risks.

Many state laws, including Texas, limit the amount of 7-hydroxymitragynine in kratom products to 2% or less of total alkaloids to prevent dangerous, adulterated substances from being marketed as kratom. Leading scientists have warned that synthetic 7 products exceed these limits, posing serious risks to consumers.

The Global Kratom Coalition urges other retailers to follow ReFuel’s example and remove these hazardous products from their shelves. Additionally, manufacturers like Charlotte Extraction Labs must cease selling 7 products in states where they are prohibited. In states that have banned these products, the Attorney General must enforce the law to prevent further harm to consumers.

“Whilst this development marks a major step forward, the fight against illicit 7 products is far from over,” said Lowe. “GKC will continue to call for law enforcement and responsible retail practices to ensure that what is sold to the public is both legal and safe.”

About the Global Kratom Coalition

Media Contact

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

March 6, 2025 8:26 PM

EDT

•

NEW YORK, NY

Maasai Mara’s Legendary Lion Lorkulup Honored in New York’s Times Square

On March 3, 2025, Nanjing's WanMiaoYiWang Pet Services Co. in collaboration with nearly 200 Chinese wildlife conservationists, hosted a special event in Times Square, New York, to honor one of the most legendary lions—Lorkulup, a member of the Black Rock Boys. The event featured an immersive video exhibition and the distribution of informational brochures to raise awareness about the immense challenges facing African lions.

At the event, a memorial video created by Chinese lion enthusiasts was played on the LED screen on 41st Street in Times Square. The video vividly showcased Lorkulup’s majestic presence on the African savanna, expressing the deep remembrance of his admirers. Additionally, posters and flyers featuring heart-touching images drew the attention of passersby.

A tourist, Mr. Peris, commented: “This event is very meaningful. I had never realized how challenging the survival environment for African wildlife is. From now on, I will pay more attention to them and contribute to wildlife conservation.”

Lion fans were there to support the event and share information about Maasai Mara’s wild lions and other wildlife challenges with pedestrians.

Ms. Yingxi, one of the attendees, shared: “My boyfriend and I happened to be in New York during this event and we feel honored to speak up for Lorkulup and other wild animals. Lorkulup’s tragic passing was heartbreaking for many lion enthusiasts and we need to learn about the Maasai Mara lions—they need our help.”

The Maasai Mara National Reserve is Kenya’s most renowned wildlife sanctuary, famous for its Great Migration and the “Big Five.” Lions, in particular, are key species in the ecosystem and major attractions for tourists worldwide. Many lions in the region receive officially recognized names, and Lorkulup was one of them.

As one of the most influential lion kings in recent years, Lorkulup was admired for his exceptional hunting skills and gentle, family-oriented nature. Visitors traveled from all over the world just to catch a glimpse of him. However, despite being in his prime at 7.5 years old, he was tragically found dead on January 25, 2025.

Notably, exactly one year and one day earlier, on January 24, 2024, another famous lion from the Black Rock Boys coalition, Olobor, died due to human-wildlife conflict. Then, just a few weeks after Lorkulup’s passing, on February 6, 2025, a more severe incident occurred at the border of Maasai Mara and Serengeti.

In retaliation for a livestock attack by lion king Osopia and a sub-group of the Oloolaimutia pride, which killed a cow on February 1, local herders poisoned five lions and over 13 hyenas.

These consecutive deaths of iconic lions highlight the serious survival crisis of African lions, calling for an urgent reassessment of human-wildlife relationships.

While Maasai Mara is a top wildlife tourism destination, its booming industry has led to habitat fragmentation due to the expansion of tourism facilities, shrinking territories for animals. Additionally, some irresponsible tourist behaviors, such as chasing or feeding wild animals, further intensify ecological pressures.

However, the greatest threat to African lions remains human-wildlife conflict—particularly conflicts with the local Maasai herders and illegal grazing activities. In recent years, over 50 documented lions, 6 leopards, and 15 cheetahs have reportedly died due to human-wildlife clashes in the Maasai Mara region. The actual number of unrecorded deaths remains unknown.

Mr. Chen, the event organizer, emphasized: “This event is not just about remembering Lorkulup but also a global call to action. We want people everywhere to recognize the importance of wildlife conservation.”

This Times Square event marks the second major tribute to Lorkulup, following the first memorial held in Westfield London, Europe's largest shopping and leisure destination, on February 15, 2025.

Media Contact

Bingqian Xue
wanmiaoyiwang@163.com

March 6, 2025 6:39 PM

EDT

•

BLOOMINGTON, IN

Al-Karkari Institute: The Patchwork Cloak and Its Enduring Legacy

In an era where the intersections of spirituality, academia, and cultural heritage are being increasingly explored, a recent event at Indiana University Bloomington provided a profound platform for such discourse. Sheikh Mohamed Faouzi al-Karkari, a leading figure in the Karkariya Sufi path, participated in an academic discussion on the esoteric dimensions of religious attire, focusing on the significance of the patchwork cloak (al-khirqa al-muraqqa‘a) in Sufism. This event, attended by university professors and researchers from diverse fields, underscored the importance of scholarly engagement with Islamic spiritual traditions.

The session featured contributions from prominent academics, including Professor Yousef Casewit of the University of Chicago and Professor Maria Hamilton Abegunde. Sheikh al-Karkari offered a Sufi perspective on the patchwork cloak, describing it as a fundamental practice of the Karkariya path that fosters self-refinement, opposes the ego, and nurtures virtues of humility and love. He emphasized how the Karkariya order has revived this practice in the modern era, ensuring its continued relevance in contemporary spiritual life.

Professor Casewit provided a historical overview of the patchwork cloak in Sufi tradition, tracing its roots back to the time of the Prophet—peace and blessings be upon him. He highlighted how Sufi brotherhoods throughout history have used this practice for spiritual and educational purposes, making its revival in the 21st century a natural extension of authentic Sufism. Meanwhile, Professor Maria Hamilton Abegunde explored the cultural significance of attire in traditional West African society, particularly within the Yoruba tradition, offering a comparative perspective on the symbolic role of clothing in spiritual and communal identity.

A significant aspect of the event was a conversation between Sheikh al-Karkari and Professor Heather Akou, an expert in the intellectual history of fashion design at Indiana University Bloomington. Moderated by Professor Casewit, this discussion delved into the intellectual and spiritual dimensions of the patchwork cloak in Islamic Sufism. Sheikh al-Karkari elaborated on the cloak’s role in guiding seekers toward humility and divine love, while also drawing connections to the broader tradition of garment patching in Islamic history. He noted that this practice is deeply woven into various Islamic cultural contexts where Karkariya disciples live and practice today.

Beyond its spiritual significance, the Sheikh also illuminated the psychological and ecological aspects of the patchwork cloak. He explained how the act of patching garments fosters environmental consciousness, reduces waste, and cultivates an appreciation for divine blessings. This, he argued, leads practitioners toward the Station of Praise (maqām al-ḥamd), a state of deep gratitude and reverence for God’s creation.

The event aligns with the mission of the Karkari Institute for Sufi Studies, which seeks to bridge academic research and lived Sufi experience. The Institute advocates for the study of Sufism within a rigorous academic framework, encouraging researchers to engage with both its theoretical and practical dimensions. Through initiatives like these, the Institute aspires to deepen Western scholarly appreciation for the enduring relevance of Islamic Sufi heritage in contemporary discourse.

By bringing together scholars and spiritual practitioners, this discussion at Indiana University Bloomington not only reaffirmed the academic value of Sufism but also highlighted the transformative power of its teachings in addressing modern spiritual, cultural, and environmental concerns.

About Al-Karkari Institute

The Al-Karkari Institute aims to engage in research and discourse on the diverse dimensions of Sufism. By exploring the historical significance and contemporary relevance of tasawwuf, we aim to illuminate the path of Islamic inner transformation for a global audience of seekers. For more information about Al-Karkari Institute and their initiatives, visit https://www.karkari.org.

Media Contact

Alan Noble
alan@karkari.org

March 6, 2025 4:12 PM

EDT

•

BARCELONA, Spain

Guy Galboiz Marketing Firm Revolutionizes Digital Marketing with AI-Powered Framework to Maximize Efficiency and Results

Guy Galboiz Marketing Firm is proud to announce the launch of its groundbreaking AI solution, Neural Optimization with Adaptive Heuristics, a next-generation platform. Its core mission is designed to help businesses of all sizes automate, optimize, and elevate their marketing processes, leading to improved outcomes while maximizing operational efficiency.

The core mission of Neural Optimization with Adaptive Heuristics is to empower businesses with an AI-driven framework that automates key marketing tasks, enhances decision-making, and provides real-time insights based on consumer behavior. By continuously adapting to data and market trends, the solution allows businesses to remain competitive and agile in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.

This innovative platform combines the power of machine learning with real-time data analysis, enabling businesses to streamline processes such as audience targeting, ad placement, and performance tracking. As a result, teams can focus on strategic decision-making, creativity, and growth initiatives. Moreover, by leveraging AI-driven insights, companies can better understand consumer behavior, predict trends, and optimize campaigns for maximum effectiveness.

A New Era of Digital Marketing Efficiency

Guy Galboiz, founder and CEO of Guy Galboiz Marketing Firm, expressed his enthusiasm for the new launch, stating, “Our new AI framework represents a major step forward in the way businesses approach digital marketing. It’s not just about automation—it’s about empowering companies to make smarter, more data-driven decisions that drive growth and remain competitive. By leveraging adaptive heuristics, we are helping businesses stay agile and responsive in an ever-evolving digital environment. This solution ensures that marketing strategies continuously evolve to meet changing consumer behavior.”

The Neural Optimization framework offers businesses several key benefits. It significantly improves efficiency by automating repetitive tasks, which allows marketing teams to focus on strategy and high-value creative work. Additionally, the platform helps optimize marketing budgets, ensuring resources are allocated to the most effective campaigns based on real-time data. The result is a measurable improvement in return on investment (ROI).

With the ability to scale operations without incurring additional costs, the platform also provides businesses with the flexibility to grow while maintaining streamlined marketing processes. The data-driven insights generated by Neural Optimization help businesses refine their marketing strategies over time, leading to higher customer engagement and better conversion rates.

Versatile Applications Across Industries

The Neural Optimization framework has broad applications across several key marketing sectors. For example, in e-commerce, the solution can automate personalized product recommendations and email campaigns, driving higher sales and improving customer retention. Content marketers can optimize social media strategies, blog posts, and video content to maximize reach and engagement with target audiences. Additionally, the platform enhances pay-per-click (PPC) advertising efforts by improving ad targeting, bid management, and overall campaign performance.

Businesses looking to enhance their marketing efforts and stay ahead of the competition are invited to explore Neural Optimization with Adaptive Heuristics by visiting www.galboiz.com. Interested parties can request a personalized demo or consultation to see the platform in action and learn how it can revolutionize their digital marketing strategies.

About Guy Galboiz Marketing Firm

Guy Galboiz Marketing Firm is a leading digital marketing agency specializing in AI-driven technologies and data-powered strategies. The firm helps businesses optimize their marketing operations, improve customer engagement, and achieve measurable growth through innovative solutions. With a commitment to staying at the forefront of the digital marketing space, Guy Galboiz Marketing Firm continues to set new standards for what’s possible in marketing innovation. For more information, visit www.galboiz.com.

Media Contact

Guy Galboiz
Guy@galboiz.com

March 6, 2025 11:00 AM

EDT

•

NEW YORK, NY

Pirix Expands Media Visibility, Sponsors Marvelous’ AI Insiders Event

Pirix, a media visibility platform for technology companies, redefines how AI startups, fintech innovators, and sustainability-driven businesses establish their market presence with marketing communication.

Fast, High-Impact Media Placement for Founders

Pirix takes a modern approach to PR, moving beyond traditional media pitching to deliver strategic, high-impact placements in leading publications such as Business Insider, Forbes, Financial Times, Entrepreneur magazine, TechCrunch, and specialized curated events. The company also provides SEO-optimized press releases and digital billboard placements in New York, maximizing visibility for fundraising, product launches, and major company milestones.

"We make founders visible," says Çiğdem Öztabak, founder and CEO of Pirix. "PR isn’t just about getting press; it’s about positioning leadership voices and their value propositions in a way that performs exceptionally well, both on Google and AI-powered search engine game."

On March 27, Pirix will be the media sponsor of the AI Insiders: The Launch event in San Francisco, an exclusive AI gathering hosted by Marvelous at AWS GenAI Loft. The event features Merve Isler, Marvelous's founder; Stanford Professor Ronjon Nag, inventor, investor, and entrepreneur; globally acclaimed pianist and composer Ayse Deniz; and Stanford University Cybersecurity Lead Bhavya Gupta. Additionally, five startups will be able to showcase and activate their brands in this exclusive event.

Marvelous is an AI-powered experiential marketing platform that helps brands connect with their ideal customers globally through in-person events, brand activations, and immersive experiences. By leveraging advanced AI agent technology, Marvelous enables brands to amplify product launches, optimize audience engagement in real time, and drive meaningful connections at scale.

“At AI Insiders, we’re curating exclusive activations and immersive experiences for a hand-selected group of industry leaders,” says Merve Isler, founder and CEO of Marvelous.

Pirix Partnership with Miami AI Hub

Pirix’s latest collaboration with Miami AI Hub provides exclusive media visibility services for AI startups. As part of this partnership, Miami AI Hub members receive preferred rates, 10% benefit for entrepreneurs, and 20% for women entrepreneurs.

"We are committed to fostering innovation in Miami’s dynamic tech ecosystem," says Burhan Sebin, founder of Miami AI Hub. "Pirix will help our AI startups cut through the noise with clear storytelling, founder presence, and high-converting content."

Expanding Influence Across Key Tech Hubs

Pirix continues to grow its Digital Out-of-Home (DOOH) advertising capabilities, offering clients placements on Nasdaq’s Times Square billboard and major digital displays across the U.S. Beyond digital media, the company is expanding its footprint in major tech hubs, organizing events for NY, Miami, San Francisco, and Los Angeles Tech Weeks.

At SXSW 2024, Öztabak, who moderated a panel at a speakeasy event in Austin, remarked: "Traditional PR built on big budgets and endless pitching is a thing of the past. In the AI age, the impact comes from real insights, readable storytelling, and smarter curated event content. The key is content to convert."

A Global Perspective on Media Communication

With a multicultural enterprise background spanning Europe and the U.S., Öztabak has led multi-million-dollar marketing budgets and award-winning digital campaigns. She is a CIM Fellow Member, The Marketing Society New York member, and a published author on AI storytelling and early-stage entrepreneurship.

For VCs, startup accelerators, and tech communities looking for media partnerships, visit pirix.co.

About Pirix

Pirix is redefining media visibility for tech founders, delivering high-impact coverage across top-tier publications and digital platforms. Founded by seasoned marcom leader and journalist Çiğdem Öztabak, Pirix specializes in AI, fintech, and sustainability-driven startups, securing strategic media placements and DOOH advertising. With a result and data-driven and multidisciplinary approach, we ensure founders are seen, heard, and recognized. For more information, visit www.pirix.co.

Media Contact

Cigdem Oztabak
cigdem@pirix.co

March 6, 2025 9:00 AM

EDT

•

CHICAGO, IL

Brighthive Announces Brighthive 2.0, a Major Platform Upgrade for Enterprise Data Consumers

Brighthive, the AI-led data infrastructure, process, and visualization platform that empowers every team to be a data team, today announced the launch of Brighthive 2.0, a system of seven AI data agents supporting the full enterprise data management and analysis workflow.

Through this platform enhancement, Brighthive is launching its "Data Team in a Box" solution, a proprietary set of seven special agents designed to support end-to-end data management across every corporate function. Built to digest formats ranging from spreadsheets, unstructured and structured data, flat files, as well as data warehouses, lakes and cloud environments, the seven agents translate deep data sets into insights, accelerating the speed to strategy within any group across the enterprise, across supply chain, customer success, marketing, strategy and engineering.

Today, an enterprise is organized around functional groups representing approximately 97% of an enterprise’s workforce, and the remaining 3% are skilled data practitioners and engineers. This proportion is unlikely to shift given enterprise resource limitations: limited hiring budgets are stretched to recruit the few skilled data engineers available in today’s competitive talent marketplace. This reality leaves many enterprises struggling to manage data analysis, estimated to be growing by 100x daily.

Built for “data consumers”—the 97% of the enterprise workforce sitting within organizational groups that operate on insights but are unable to access them—Brighthive 2.0 is a powerful, simple-to-use, turnkey platform that unlocks insights faster, making automated data storytelling a new way of working across enterprise teams. At the center of the platform enhancement is the release of seven discrete agents designed to unlock the full data lifecycle as a human data engineering team would, but with more speed, efficiency and scale than possible given the current challenges inherent to manual data analysis. The platform is built on a singular agent for each step - ingestion, governance, retrieval, engineering and visualization. After analyzing the data assets, the seven data agents work in unison to process the raw inputs and deliver insights packaged for data consumers to action upon. Brighthive’s simple and easy-to-use experience guides users through a singular conversational interface.

Brighthive's co-founder and CEO, Suzanne EL-Moursi, shared, "We’re creating substance from massive and under utilized data sets at a speed, accuracy and performance never seen before. While there will always be a need for official reports to be issued, the strategy, marketing, or sales teams will no longer wait for the data analysts to crunch numbers and generate reports. Now, anyone in the enterprise can input data into Brighthive and trust that the Brighthive’s agents will deliver visualized insights instantly, unlocking more informed, data-driven conversations faster, regardless of who has access to which data sets. We are pioneering the future of business operations by streamlining data ingestion and governance to accelerate the delivery of automated analytics and visualizations—all in one platform."

Brighthive will be one of the AI companies exhibiting at HumanX 2025, from March 9–13, 2025. To meet the Brighthive team and see a live demonstration, please visit the Fontainebleau Las Vegas in startup booth #E3. To learn more about Brighthive and read the February 2025 profile of Brighthive in Cerebral Valley, visit https://www.brighthive.io.

About Brighthive

Brighthive is an enterprise data management and analysis platform, powering data consumers across an enterprise with a full data management workflow. Powered by seven specialized data agents that work together seamlessly to manage a set of critical data management tasks, Brighthive equips every team inside the enterprise with a complete platform that mimics the technical capabilities of human data teams, empowering everyone in the enterprise to visualize data insights faster, increasing organizations with more data capacity. To learn more, visit https://www.brighthive.io.

Media Contact

Hello Brighthive
hello@brighthive.io

March 6, 2025 9:00 AM

EDT

•

WASHINGTON, DC

Out of Home Advertising Revenue Surpasses $9 Billion, Highest Revenue Volume to Date

Out of home (OOH) advertising revenue surpassed $9.1 billion in 2024, a 4.5% increase from the previous year, according to newly released data from the Out of Home Advertising Association of America (OAAA), the leading trade group representing the entire OOH advertising industry. This is the first time OOH advertising revenue has exceeded the $9 billion mark in the history of the medium.

Digital OOH (DOOH) accounted for 34% of total OOH ad spend and grew by 7.5% in 2024, reinforcing its role as a major growth driver. While DOOH continued to fuel industry momentum, OOH also saw gains across key segments, including Billboards, Transit, and Street Furniture. Transit led the category growth with a 10.6% increase.

In 2024, half of the top ten advertising product industries grew by double digits, including (in order of percentage growth): Communications, Government Politics & Organizations, Retail, Automotive Dealers & Services, and Local Services & Amusements. Notably, political advertising generated record OOH spending in a presidential election year.

“This marks the first time OOH revenue has exceeded $9 billion, signaling the continued strength and momentum of out of home advertising,” said Anna Bager, President and CEO, OAAA. “As brands double down on innovation and creativity, OOH remains a powerful driver of engagement across industries. The ongoing adoption by technology and direct-to-consumer brands underscores the channel’s expanding influence. This research reinforces what we already know—OOH is delivering results at every level, from hyperlocal activations to national and global campaigns.”

Top-Spending Categories and Advertisers in 2024

OOH’s top ten advertising categories in 2024 (ranked by spend) were:

Legal Services
Hospitals, Clinics & Medical Centers
Domestic Hotels & Resorts
Quick-Service Restaurants
Consumer Banking
Colleges & Universities
Local Government
Chain Food Stores & Supermarkets
Television & Cable TV
Live Theater, Opera, Music, and Dance

Legal Services led with a double-digit increase of 16%, while Chain Food Stores & Supermarkets saw a 15% spending boost.

Ranked in order of OOH spending, the top 10 advertisers in 2024 were Apple, McDonald’s, Amazon, Coca-Cola, Verizon, Disney, Morgan & Morgan Attorneys, Hotels.com, Google, and Samsung.

Other Notable Findings

60% of the top 100 OOH advertisers increased their OOH spend compared to 2023.
13 advertisers more than doubled their OOH investment, including (ranked by percentage increase): Stripe, Old Navy, Honda, Nike, Hotels.com, Carnival, Turo, 7-Eleven, QuikTrip, Molson Coors, VRBO, Total Wine & More, and Meta.
More than 25% of the top 100 OOH spenders were technology or direct-to-consumer brands, including major advertisers such as Apple, Amazon, Verizon, Hotels.com, Google, Samsung, Netflix, T-Mobile, Expedia, Paramount, Uber, Vrbo, Comcast, Meta, Max, Hulu, Live Nation, DoorDash, FanDuel, Sixt, Progressive, Peacock, Stripe, Turo, Spectrum and Cox (listed in order of spend).

OAAA publishes full industry revenue estimates incorporating data from sources such as Miller Kaplan and Vivvix-MediaRadar (which are not adjusted for changes in data sources), alongside member company affidavits. These estimates include spending across digital and static billboards, street furniture, transit, place-based, and cinema advertising.

For more information about specific category spend, please contact Steve Nicklin at snicklin@oaaa.org or 202-833-5566.

About the Out of Home Advertising Association of America (OAAA)

The Out of Home Advertising Association of America (OAAA) is the national trade association for the entire out of home (OOH) advertising industry. OAAA represents over 850 members, including leading media companies, advertisers, agencies, ad-tech providers, and suppliers. OOH media includes billboards, street furniture, transit, place-based media, and digital formats (DOOH) across every sector of the channel. OAAA is the unifying voice for the industry, the authoritative thought leader, and the passionate advocate for advancing OOH advertising in the United States. The legislative unit of OAAA advocates for the responsible growth of OOH with federal, state, and local governments. OAAA-member media companies donate over $500 million annually in public service advertising. Founded in 1891, OAAA is headquartered in Washington, DC, with offices in New York City. For more information, visit https://oaaa.org.

Media Contact

Cassady Nordeen
cassady@purposenorthamerica.com

March 5, 2025 6:23 PM

EDT

•

DAYTON, OH

Unlisted Shares Insights on "What Are Off-Market Properties and Why Should You Care?"

For many homebuyers, the search for the perfect home begins and ends with homes that are advertising themselves for sale—but what if the ideal property isn’t on the market yet? Off-market properties, which are not publicly listed for sale, offer a different approach to home buying. These homes remain outside traditional real estate platforms. Unlisted, an AI technology startup, is giving people a way to find off-market properties for the first time.

Unlisted helps buyers and homeowners connect privately, making it possible to explore real estate opportunities beyond the limits of the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Many homeowners are open to interest but prefer to remain off-market, and Unlisted provides a way for buyers to discover these hidden possibilities. In fact, 66% of homeowners say they would consider selling for the right terms.

“Real estate offers far more possibilities than just what’s listed. There are 121 million homes in the U.S., and less than 5% list for sale at any given time. Historically, buyers consider this the only inventory they can consider,” says Katie Hill, founder and CEO of Unlisted. She goes on to say “Many off-market homeowners would consider selling if they knew there was interest and the timing worked, or if the right price came along. I created Unlisted to normalize having these proactive conversations and tapping into this hidden inventory.”

How Do Off-Market Properties Differ from FSBO and Pre-Market Listings?

While off-market homes are not publicly for sale, other real estate terms—such as FSBO (For Sale By Owner) and pre-market listings—are sometimes confused with true off-market opportunities. Understanding these differences helps buyers and sellers navigate their options more effectively.

FSBO (For Sale By Owner): FSBO properties are actively for sale but managed directly by the homeowner without an agent. These homes may not be listed on the MLS but are still being marketed through FSBO websites, social media, and other platforms.
Pre-Market Listings: Some homes are promoted as “off-market” but are actually pre-market, meaning they will soon be officially listed for sale. These homes may be privately shared with select buyers or agents before being widely advertised.
True Off-Market Properties: Unlike FSBO or pre-market listings, off-market homes are not in an active sales process. The homeowner has not publicly listed the property but may consider offers under the right circumstances. These homes are often discovered through direct outreach or word-of-mouth. Now, for the first time, people can discover these homes online through Unlisted.

Why Off-Market Properties Matter

For buyers, off-market opportunities provide access to homes that are not yet—or may never be—on public listing sites. This can be especially valuable in competitive markets where desirable properties receive multiple offers as soon as they are listed. Off-market homes allow for a more direct and seamless path to homeownership.

For homeowners, remaining off-market offers privacy and control. Whether testing interest, waiting for the right offer, or simply staying open to possibilities, keeping a home off-market can provide flexibility that traditional listings do not.

To start exploring off-market homes, visit UnlistedHomes.com.

About Unlisted

Unlisted is an AI-powered real estate technology platform designed to reveal off-market property opportunities. By leveraging machine learning, the company creates more dynamic, efficient market opportunities for buyers, sellers, and real estate professionals. For more information, visit https://unlistedhomes.com.

Media Contact

Sophia Jacomet
sophia@unlistedinc.com

March 5, 2025 5:21 PM

EDT

•

PORTLAND, OR

Bold Reuse Drives Waste Reduction at Oregon Convention Center with New Reusable Cups and Trays

Bold Reuse, in partnership with the Oregon Convention Center (OCC), Levy, and PepsiCo, is expanding its industry-leading reusable packaging program at OCC in 2025. This expansion is expected to double the volume of reusables at OCC, reinforcing the commitment to making reusable solutions accessible at high-traffic event spaces.

Building on its success as the first convention center to launch an initiative with a reuse service provider in 2023, OCC is taking the next step toward waste diversion by introducing reusable soda cups supported by PepsiCo and rolling out reusable food baskets at primary restaurants and cafes. This will be PepsiCo’s fourth reuse project with Bold Reuse, demonstrating a growing commitment to advancing reuse initiatives at large venues.

In 2023, Bold Reuse and OCC launched a reuse pilot, offering reusable trays to guests at select restaurants and cafes. The program has been a growing success, with a 93% average return rate since the system launch and over 39,385 single-use trays diverted from landfills. The expanded program aims to continuously reduce waste generated at OCC, which welcomes millions of visitors annually. Beginning in early March, guests purchasing meals at several restaurant and cafe locations will receive their food in reusable trays, and all poured PepsiCo Beverages will be served in reusable cups. This initiative is another way PepsiCo is making an impact through its pep+ (PepsiCo Positive) program, which strives to inspire positive change for the planet and people.

“At the Oregon Convention Center, sustainability is at the core of everything we do, said OCC Executive Director Cindy Wallace. “By expanding our partnership with Bold Reuse and PepsiCo, we’re setting a new standard for waste reduction in the events industry and demonstrating how large-scale venues can successfully implement reuse.”

As a national leader in reusable packaging solutions, Bold Reuse will manage the supply, sanitization, and logistics of the reusable cups and trays, ensuring a smooth transition and high-quality experience for guests and event organizers. The company’s expertise has been instrumental in making reuse scalable and accessible for large venues.

“We are thrilled to continue our work with the Oregon Convention Center and continue to prove that reuse does work at scale,” said Jocelyn Quarrell, co-founder of Bold Reuse. “By collaborating with forward-thinking organizations like the Oregon Convention Center, Levy, and PepsiCo, we’re setting a new precedent for how large venues think about waste.”

The LEED® Platinum-certified Oregon Convention Center is a proud leader in sustainable events, allowing guests to be part of sustainability just by being there. The collective commitment to a greener and more sustainable future is strong, with the expansion of reusables debuting at The Pac West Cheer and Dance Nationals from February 28 to March 2.

About Bold Reuse

Bold Reuse is leading the reusable packaging revolution, helping companies transform their operations to reduce waste, achieve sustainability goals, and enhance customer loyalty. Trusted by iconic brands like Starbucks, PepsiCo, Portland Trail Blazers, Arizona Diamondbacks, Levy, and more, Bold Reuse delivers seamless, scalable reuse solutions for large venues, campuses, and corporations. With operations in Portland, Seattle, Phoenix, Kansas City, Chicago, and Charlotte, and a proven track record of innovation, Bold Reuse has supported its partners in diverting over 5 million pounds of waste from landfills and creating tangible environmental impact. For more information, visit https://www.boldreuse.com.

About PepsiCo

PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated nearly $92 billion in net revenue in 2024, driven by a complementary beverage and convenient foods portfolio that includes Lay’s, Doritos, Cheetos, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, Quaker, and SodaStream. PepsiCo’s product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including many iconic brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales.

Guiding PepsiCo is our vision to Be the Global Leader in Beverages and Convenient Foods by Winning with pep+ (PepsiCo Positive). pep+ is our strategic end-to-end transformation that puts sustainability and human capital at the center of how we will create value and growth by operating within planetary boundaries and inspiring positive change for planet and people. For more information, visit www.pepsico.com, and follow on X (Twitter), Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

About Oregon Convention Center

The Oregon Convention Center (OCC) is a premier gathering place in the Pacific Northwest, showcasing the Portland experience and contributing to the regional economy. OCC has been a sustainability pioneer, earning LEED Platinum® certification and recognition from the Events Industry Council for our commitment to green practices. We prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion in all decision-making, creating spaces where everyone feels welcome. From hosting innovative events and fostering human connection to advancing equitable outcomes and sustainability initiatives, OCC is where ideas flourish, culture is shared, and communities thrive. To learn more, visit https://www.oregoncc.org.

Media Contact

Mya Manibusan
mya@boldreuse.com

Turn your news into performance

EZ Newswire is the only news platform connecting the most influential organizations with the most trusted media outlets.

Get started