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Kratom Consumer Advisory Council (KCAC) today released a comprehensive position paper, "Fact Check on Synthetic 7 Solving the Opioid Crisis," refuting the Holistic Alternative Recovery Trust’s (HART) claim and that of its National Policy Director Jeff Smith (media clip here) that synthetic 7-hydroxymitragynine (“synthetic 7”) products have reduced the opioid mortality death rate in the United States.

This claim, which HART has presented in testimony to lawmakers in multiple states and to media outlets, is not supported by any published clinical trials or peer-reviewed observational studies. In contrast, the KCAC’s position paper outlines overwhelming evidence pointing to community naloxone distribution and public health partnerships as the true drivers of reduced opioid deaths.

“HART’s argument isn’t just scientifically unsupported—it’s dangerous,” said Dr. C. Michael White, Pharm.D., FCP, FCCP, FASHP, a pharmacist, distinguished professor of pharmacy practice at the University of Connecticut School of Pharmacy, and KCAC chair. “The reduction in opioid mortality in recent years correlates most clearly with community-based naloxone access and training initiatives, not the rise of potent, unregulated synthetic opioids being sold in gas stations and smoke shops.”

The KCAC white paper highlights well-documented evidence from public health literature:

• A 2021 study in North Carolina estimated 352 deaths were avoided due to naloxone distribution, showing a clear relationship between kit access and reduced fatalities. (Study link)
• In Southwestern Pennsylvania, expanding naloxone access through additional sites, including syringe exchanges, led to a 65% drop in opioid deaths. (Study link)
• A meta-analysis of 44 studies found survival rates above 90% in programs distributing naloxone to at-risk communities, families, and police. (Study link)
• Economic modeling also confirms naloxone programs are cost-effective, with benefits measured in lives saved and reduced healthcare costs. (Study link)

Unlike whole-leaf kratom and natural mitragynine—which preclinical studies suggest have a low risk of respiratory depression—synthetic 7 and similar analogs (including tianeptine and mitragynine pseudoindoxyl) have been shown in multiple animal studies to significantly depress respiratory function at high doses. These effects mirror those of morphine and respond poorly to naloxone reversal—underscoring their danger to public health.

Further, anecdotal reports suggest that synthetic 7 products have caused severe addiction, and the rapid tolerance requires consumers to escalate doses over time. In addition, their bright packaging and candy-like branding (e.g., “Perks,” “Opia,” “Rave”) may appeal to children and teens—raising additional concerns among parents and policymakers.

Leading kratom researchers at Johns Hopkins University and the University of Florida have issued urgent warnings about the proliferation of 7 products and their potential for abuse, dependence, severe withdrawal, and even respiratory depression—dangers that run directly counter to it being marketed as a treatment for opioid addiction. A leading forensic research center has published public alerts on 7 products. 

Dr. White cautions, “Selling potent opioid receptor-stimulating 7 products in gas stations, convenience stores, and smoke shops in unlimited quantities within arm’s reach of candy bars and energy drinks is a public health recipe for disaster. It allows a whole new generation of consumers to potentially get hooked on opioids, and we know where that leads.”

The KCAC’s position papers in total provide lawmakers a roadmap based on the best available published evidence to protect consumers while still maintaining access to natural kratom products and runs counter to unsubstantiated pseudo-scientific claims.

Download the full position paper here.

About Kratom Consumer Advisory Council (KCAC)

Kratom Consumer Advisory Council (KCAC) is an independent board made up of a clinician-scientist and consumers that uses the strongest available evidence to produce position statements that promote evidence-based policy. The KCAC is supported by the Global Kratom Coalition which advocates for regulations that protect consumers and curbs the sale of adulterated or synthetic products falsely marketed as kratom. For more information, visit globalkratomcoalition.org/kcac.

Media Contact

Dr. C. Michael White
cwhite1@wm.com

As smart advances through 2025 — the year of enhancing global operation — the premium electric automotive brand continues to drive innovation across global markets through strategic partnerships and product excellence.

Highlights

• In the first half of 2025, smart continued to expand its global footprint and make its entry into seven new markets.
• Significant R&D advancements in future products and technologies have been made, solidifying the company’s long-term value proposition and meeting diverse customer needs. 
• With the launch of “Open Your Mind Experiences” global campaign, smart keeps sharpening its renewed brand image and forged collaborations with iconic brands and Intellectual Properties, including BRABUS, Sennheiser, TREK, Keith Haring globally and Disney’s Mickey & Friends and Peet’s Coffee in China.

Accelerating Global Growth With Bold Expansion and Innovation

smart has made significant inroads into the global market landscape, successfully entering seven new markets across the MENA region and Latin America in the first half of 2025. The business footprint has now expanded to 38 countries and regions, with exceeding 580 stores worldwide.

With the launch of "Open Your Mind Experiences" global campaign, smart is sharpening its renewed brand image, and initiating various crossover collaborations. In addition, the brand continues to enrich its product offerings, with plans to unveil more latest R&D technology and product results in the coming months.

Mr. Tong Xiangbei, global CEO of smart, said: "In the first half of 2025, smart has accelerated global expansion by entering new markets and expanding our product offerings with innovative models. Meanwhile, significant R&D advancements in future products and technologies have been made, solidifying the young global company’s long-term value proposition and enabling us to meet diverse customer needs worldwide."

Sharpening the Brand Image through Inspirational Co-Creation

During Auto Shanghai 2025, smart officially launched the "Open Your Mind Experiences" global campaign, which was built around the "Power of Firsts" — the belief that first-time experiences create powerful emotional connections and unlock new possibilities. Embodying more first-time creative experiences, smart has forged collaborations with several iconic brands and Intellectual Properties throughout the first half of 2025.

The partnership with the Keith Haring Foundation aligns street art with smart's urban mobility vision, debuting the smart #3 Keith Haring Art Car, with plans for a production version later this year. The collaboration with Disney in China enhances smart’s inspiration with imagination and fun. This marks smart's second partnership with Mickey & Friends following the smart fortwo electric drive Disney edition from 11 years ago. smart and Peet’s Coffee co-created the #1 Crema Edition for the Chinese market which features distinctive black-gold coloring and exclusive interior elements.

Ms. Mandy Zhang, global CMO of smart, said: "We actively bring the 'Open Your Mind' brand claim to life through innovative collaborations with iconic global brands and IPs. From high-performance upgrades with BRABUS and immersive audio experiences with Sennheiser to embedding Keith Haring's iconic art in product designs, our partnerships span automotive, art, and lifestyle realms—including co-creations with TREK, Mickey & Friends, Peet's Coffee, and many more. These partnerships embody our commitment to breaking boundaries and continuing sharpening our distinctive brand image across diverse cultures. As we grow our brand presence, we are working closely with partners across 38 countries and regions to deliver enhanced service experiences to our customers."

Mindful Technology Advancements: Enhanced ADAS and Intelligent Cabin

smart continued to enhance its mindful technology offerings in the first half of 2025. The smart #5's Navigation on smart Pilot (NSP) function has been activated in the Chinese mainland, providing enhanced driving assistance for local customers. Additionally, smart achieved the first implementation of AI-powered interactions in the smart #5, advancing its intelligent cabin experience.

Featuring these mindful technologies, the smart #5 continues its global rollout. The smart #5 BRABUS made its world premiere during Milan Design Week in Italy, followed by successful launches in the European markets, Hong Kong China, and making its premiere in Malaysia, receiving positive feedback from global media and customers.

As smart progresses through the year of enhancing global operation, the brand remains committed to delivering exceptional experiences for customers worldwide. Through continued market expansion, innovative partnerships, and product excellence, smart will keep inspiring customers to discover what happens when you open your mind to new possibilities.

About smart

Since the birth of the brand in the 1990s, smart has always maintained the vision of exploring the best solutions for future urban mobility. In late 2019, Mercedes-Benz AG and Zhejiang Geely Holding Group officially established smart global joint venture.

From 2019 to 2024, after the comprehensive renewal of its brand, products, and business model, smart successfully achieved the strategic objectives set for its initial five-year phase. Adhering steadfastly to the "China-Europe, Dual Home" global development strategy, smart has transformed into a leading premium electric automotive brand. It now boasts an expanding product matrix and a global footprint spanning around 40 countries and regions. In 2025, smart aims to boost its global business operations.

For more information, visit media.smart.com.

Media Contact

Sebastian Liu
sebastian.liu@smart.com

Doktar, a technology company uniquely positioned at the intersection of data-driven agriculture and scalable sustainability, has closed a €7.5 million funding round co-led by the European Circular Bioeconomy Fund (ECBF)—Europe’s first private venture capital fund dedicated to accelerating the bioeconomy and biobased circular innovations—and Pymwymic, a pioneering Dutch impact investor focused on regenerative agriculture and sustainable food systems, with participation from existing investor Diffusion Capital Partners (DCP). The investment will support the expansion of Doktar’s integrated product portfolio and enable the company to scale its holistic execution model globally.

Empowering the Future of Agriculture

Founded in 2017, Doktar is an agtech company that leverages proprietary digital products and AI to transform the agricultural value chain. What sets Doktar apart is its end-to-end digital platform that addresses all core farming needs, from real-time monitoring and decision support to verifiable sustainability outcomes. Through an integrated ecosystem of connected IoT devices, smart software, and AI-powered insights, Doktar delivers actionable intelligence and full-farm traceability.

Doktar’s approach combines full-farm digitization, farmer engagement, and measurable impact reporting, enabling organizations to achieve turnkey, verifiable climate resilience outcomes. Its Climate Sustainability Impact (CSI) platform empowers farmers, agribusinesses, and global food producers to implement sustainability strategies with traceability, efficiency, and proven environmental results.

Global Presence and Regenerative Reach

Headquartered in the Netherlands with offices in Turkey, Doktar operates in over 10 countries through its partner networks. The company currently supports 250,000 hectares of regenerative farmland, delivering actionable insights and scalable outcomes across diverse crop systems and geographies. Today, six of the ten largest global food and beverage companies leverage Doktar's platform to advance their sustainability and supply chain goals. This enables these partners to make measurable progress towards their public 2030 sustainability commitments, turning ambitious targets into verifiable achievements.

Sustainability at the Core of Growth

Sustainability remains a strategic priority for the company, which aims to empower its partners and customers to implement regenerative agriculture, water stewardship, and traceability practices at scale. With this new investment, Doktar will continue to enhance its platform with more advanced solutions and technologies that enable global stakeholders to achieve measurable environmental and business outcomes.

Investor Confidence and Market Validation

The funding round drew strong support from investors aligned with Doktar’s mission to scale practical, climate-smart agriculture.

“We invested in Doktar because their approach uniquely combines agronomic expertise, scalable technology, and measurable environmental outcomes,” said Isabelle Laurencin, partner at ECBF. “They are enabling regenerative agriculture at scale with real-world applicability.”

Rogier Pieterse, partner at Pymwymic, added: “We believe Doktar has a unique position in supporting both farmers and food corporates in making smarter choices from an efficiency and impact perspective. We are excited to work with the Company and our co-investors to bring this impact to the next level.”

"We have witnessed firsthand Doktar's exceptional ability to deliver measurable agricultural transformation through innovative technology," said Merve Akgun, partner at Diffusion Capital Partners. "We are proud to continue supporting their global expansion as they bring scalable solutions that create both environmental impact and business value to farmers and food producers worldwide."

Fueling Global Expansion and Regional Depth

With the new funding, Doktar is poised to expand into more markets while deepening its operational capacity.

“This investment marks an important milestone in our journey to digitally transform agriculture at scale. It enables us to accelerate our expansion across Europe, North America, and South America, while deepening our ability to meet the growing global demand for integrated, data-driven solutions. As agriculture faces mounting pressure to deliver both productivity and sustainability, we are reinforcing the digital backbone that makes a measurable, verifiable impact possible across entire supply chains,” said Tanzer Bilgen and Selim Ucer, co-founders of Doktar.

About Doktar

Doktar is an agtech company driving the digital transformation of agriculture through AI, connected devices, and integrated software. Its Climate Sustainability Impact (CSI) platform enables real-time farm insights and traceable environmental outcomes, helping organizations scale regenerative practices with precision and accountability. Founded in 2017, Doktar operates globally with a mission to make sustainable agriculture both practical and profitable. For more information, visit www.doktar.com.

About European Circular Bioeconomy Fund (ECBF)

The European Circular Bioeconomy Fund (ECBF) is the first venture fund exclusively dedicated to accelerating the shift from a fossil-based to a bio-based circular economy. With €300 million raised, ECBF invests €2-10 million in growth-stage companies across sectors like agtech, food & nutrition, industrial biotech, and bio-based materials. As an Article 9 fund under SFDR, ECBF screens investments for the highest ESG criteria, aligning with European environmental goals. The fund combines financial support with industry expertise to foster innovation and sustainability in Europe's bioeconomy sector. ECBF is focused on deploying capital in attractive and impactful companies based in the EU-27 or 16 HORIZON 2020 associated countries. To learn more, visit www.ecbf.vc.

About Pymwymic

Pymwymic (Put Your Money Where Your Meaning Is Community) has taken a frontrunner role in the transition towards investing with care for both people and planet since 1994. Backed by over 250 individuals, families, entrepreneurs, and institutional investors, we have launched two Article 9-compliant impact funds, currently investing through the Healthy Food Systems Impact Fund II. This fund focuses on early-stage AgriFood scale-ups that offer pioneering solutions in areas like sustainable farming, reducing food waste, and regenerative agriculture. To learn more, visit pymwymic.com.

About Diffusion Capital Partners (DCP)

Diffusion Capital Partners (DCP) is a venture capital firm that invests in deep tech startups and supports disruptive technologies across emerging markets. For more information, visit www.dcp.vc.

Media Contact

Atak Ayaz
atak.ayaz@doktar.com

SKYX Platforms Corp. (NASDAQ:SKYX) (“SKYX” or the “Company”), a highly disruptive smart home platform technology company, announced a significant increase in both U.S. and international demand for its newly patented, all-in-one Smart Turbo Heater & Ceiling Fan, ahead of its broad commercial launch expected in Q3 2025.

The innovative product, an integrated ceiling fan and heater, is designed to address consumer comfort across all four seasons and targets a combined ceiling fan and portable heater category valued at several billion dollars annually. Tens of millions of units are sold in the U.S. alone each year, reflecting strong market potential for SKYX’s unique offering.

In response to this rising demand, SKYX confirmed it will launch two distinct models of the Smart Turbo Heater & Fan, available in six to eight color options to suit both residential and commercial applications. Manufacturing has already commenced in collaboration with the Company’s long-standing global partners.

The Company who will be added to the Russell 2000 this week, believes the product’s launch will be a pivotal catalyst in its plan to reach cash-flow positive operations in 2025.

Rani Kohen, founder and executive chairman of SKYX Platforms Corp., stated, “We are experiencing unprecedented interest in our all-in-one smart heater and ceiling fans from both U.S. and global markets. This product exemplifies our commitment to innovation, safety, and global market products. As we prepare for our upcoming launch, we believe this breakthrough solution will drive significant value for our customers, partners, and shareholders.”

SKYX currently holds over 97 issued and pending patents worldwide and owns a growing portfolio of more than 60 lighting and home décor websites. The Company’s mission is to transform homes and buildings into smarter, safer, and more advanced environments.

To view SKYX’s technologies in action, click here.

About SKYX Platforms Corp.

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

Forward-Looking Statements

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

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

Media Contact

Jeff Ramson
jramson@pcgadvisory.com

Bold Reuse, a leader in reusable packaging systems for venues, is launching a two-month pilot program deploying radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology in partnership with Avery Dennison (NYSE: AVY), a global materials science and digital identification solutions company. The initiative will bring real-time visibility and smart tracking to monitor the entire lifecycle of reusable cups — from distribution and return to wash cycles and end-of-life.

The pilot will be deployed at Bold Reuse’s Portland-based wash-hub and two of Portland’s major league sports venues: The Moda Center, home of the Portland Trail Blazers, and Providence Park, home of the Portland Timbers and Thorns, with the combined locations reaching over 2 million people a year.

This pilot goes beyond basic inventory tracking — it represents a critical step forward in advancing smarter, data-informed reuse systems. With RFID technology, Bold Reuse and its partners are unlocking item-level metrics that reveal how cups move through the system, where losses occur, and how user behavior impacts return rates. These insights are key to driving operational efficiency, reducing waste and enhancing the fan experience. Ultimately, the data gathered through this pilot will shape more effective reuse strategies and support broader sustainability goals across sports and entertainment venues.

“This pilot is about unlocking operational intelligence at scale,” said Jocelyn Quarrell, CEO of Bold Reuse. “With RFID, we can track every single cup throughout its journey, giving our partners transparency and performance metrics to make reuse as seamless and scalable as possible.”

Through fixed RFID readers installed at key points within the service center, and handheld devices used at partner venues, the pilot will passively collect key data, including:

• Cup return vs. loss rates
• Average number of wash cycles per cup
• Inventory dwell times
• % of cups retired, rewashed or damaged

Data is crucial for the success of reusable products and underpins the reuse economy. The data will allow Bold Reuse to optimize its service center operations, reduce waste, and extend the life of its products — ultimately making reuse more cost-effective and sustainable for its customers.

“Bold Reuse is paving the way for smarter reuse systems,” said Michael Colarossi, head of enterprise sustainability, Avery Dennison. “Together, we’re delivering a scalable, item-level traceability solution that enables real-time accountability and transparency in reuse. This is made possible through our unique combination of materials science expertise — specifically in performance adhesives — and our deep knowledge of RFID technology. We ensure items can withstand repeated wash cycles without compromising RFID functionality, empowering consumers to reuse items again and again.”

Partner Perspectives

Moda Center

“At Moda Center, we’re proud to already operate a successful reusable cup program through Rip City Reuse, which has eliminated more than 917,000 single-use cups to date — and we’re on track to hit 1 million cups diverted this year,” said Brittany Saulsbury, sustainability operations manager at the Portland Trailblazers. “With this RFID pilot, we’re excited to enhance the system by gathering deeper data insights to help us further optimize the fan experience and continue driving waste reduction at Moda Center.”

Providence Park

“We’re always looking for ways to raise the bar on sustainability at Providence Park, and this RFID pilot with Bold Reuse is an exciting leap forward,” said Ashley Highsmith, chief operations officer, Portland Timbers. “It’s not just about reducing waste — it’s about embracing innovation to create smarter, more efficient systems. With this technology, we’re gaining powerful insights that will help us scale our impact, engage fans in new ways, and set a new standard for what sustainability can look like in sports and entertainment.”

In the future, the RFID tracking system could serve as a blueprint for widespread implementation across Bold Reuse’s growing network of venues nationwide.

About Bold Reuse

Bold Reuse partners with venues, corporate campuses, and institutions to power circular systems through reusable packaging, logistics, and data-driven operations. Headquartered in Portland, OR, the company’s mission is to eliminate single-use waste and build a scalable infrastructure for reuse. For more information, visit www.boldreuse.com.

About Avery Dennison

Avery Dennison Corporation (NYSE: AVY) is a global materials science and digital identification solutions company. We are Making Possible™ products and solutions that help advance the industries we serve, providing branding and information solutions that optimize labor and supply chain efficiency, reduce waste, advance sustainability, circularity and transparency, and better connect brands and consumers. We design and develop labeling and functional materials, radio-frequency identification (RFID) inlays and tags, software applications that connect the physical and digital, and offerings that enhance branded packaging and carry or display information that improves the customer experience. Serving industries worldwide — including home and personal care, apparel, general retail, e-commerce, logistics, food and grocery, pharmaceuticals and automotive — we employ approximately 35,000 employees in more than 50 countries. Our reported sales in 2024 were $8.8 billion. Learn more at www.averydennison.com.

Media Contact

Mya Manibusan
mya@boldreuse.com

From 19th-century stagecoach stop to charming Southern California gem, Old Town Temecula has become one of Southern California’s most charming and nostalgic destinations because it offers a unique blend of past and present. Dotted with unique shops, museums, eclectic tasting rooms, and a variety of eateries, visitors can explore and wander past preserved storefronts and original hitching posts before stepping into modern spaces.

“What's happening in Old Town Temecula is a true renaissance,” said Scott A. Wilson, CEO of Visit Temecula Valley. “We're seeing this amazing mix of Old West charm mixed in with very cool modern vibes. It’s a living, breathing place that's constantly evolving, and it’s a must-see for any Temecula visitor."

Old Town Temecula’s dining landscape continues to thrive. While established classics like 1909, Goat & Vine and Gambling Cowboy remain local favorites, a new wave of innovative eateries are adding to the mix with interesting dining concepts. Haven Haus Cafe offers a relaxed, tropical vibe where diners can enjoy a festive brunch or dinner. Ten Hut, a bold Korean-style pub, offers crispy Korean fried chicken, bold Kogi tacos, and BBQ sliders that take pub food to the next level. Once an 18th century homestead, Small Barn is now a stylish modern bistro offering globally inspired flavors, fresh and seasonal menus, and thoughtful pairings.

Old Town tasting rooms like Temecula Olive Oil Company, Big Nose Winery, La Fata Cellars, Corbeaux Wine & Tea House, and soon-to-open Humble Somm, keep the region’s wine and agricultural legacy alive—one pour at a time.

Another historic landmark restaurant, the Swing Inn Café, was originally built in 1927 and is now owned by actor Dean Norris. The “Breaking Bad” and “CSI” star is often seen chatting with diners as they enjoy his slow-cooked BBQ and house specials. Located around the corner from the popular Old Town Farmer’s Market on Sixth and Front, E.A.T. Marketplace continues to champion farm-to-table dining and offer event space for local makers and mavericks to gather. A few doors down, Grazing Theory, which was recognized as Best Small Cheese Shop in America by Yelp, offers beautifully designed charcuterie boards, sandwich platters, and customized brunch options for delivery or pick-up.

On a lot that was once a busy lumberyard, the Temecula Stampede now stands as the largest country and western dance venue on the West Coast. Guests are invited to kick up their heels with line dancing lessons every Friday evening. Just across the street, you'll find Baily's Restaurant, another Old Town landmark with a fascinating past. This location was once the famed "Art Shack" of renowned artist Ralph Love. Born in Los Angeles in 1907, Love established his Temecula studio and classroom there in the mid-1950s. Today, a plaque honoring Love is displayed on the restaurant’s patio.

Inside the Hotel Temecula building, which was built in 1891, Weld + Wool attracts shoppers looking for customized Western hats and permanent jewelry. Across the street, Professor Pennypickle’s Workshop is an award-winning, STEM-focused museum that offers kids and families an imaginative, playful, and hands-on world of science and invention. Around the corner at Old Town Temecula Mining Co. & Mercantile, kids can pan for gems, test their aim in a laser shooting gallery, and shop for nostalgic candy and crystals. Newly opened on Main Street, Coffee Til Cocktails boutique is a one-stop shop offering clothing, on-trend accessories and a Trucker Hat Bar. Visitors can also explore Old Town’s eccentric side by visiting the Historic Jail or engaging with Zoltar (made famous in the movie, "Big").

Throughout the summer months, Old Town’s patios, bars, and tasting rooms come alive with plenty of live music and entertainment options, seasonal sips, and warm-weather vibes. On July 16, the Summer Taste of Old Town invites guests to enjoy a curated “sip and stroll” through the district, with small bites and drinks from a lineup of local businesses.

Old Town Temecula isn’t just a place to eat or shop. It’s a unique reflection of the Old West, with a nod to the past and an eye on the future. Old Town Temecula’s revitalization reflects the broader story of Temecula Valley: a destination shaped by independent thinkers, risk-takers, and community-minded creatives. It’s where SoCal history meets handcrafted hospitality.

About Visit Temecula Valley

Visit Temecula Valley (VTV) is a nonprofit 501 (c)(6) destination marketing organization dedicated to promoting tourism-related businesses including wineries, restaurants, breweries, retail and specialty boutiques, hotels, short-term rentals, and more. This popular Southern California destination includes Temecula Valley Wine Country, Old Town Temecula, and Pechanga Resort Casino. For more information, visit visittemeculavalley.com.

Media Contact

Norma Marlowe
norma@visittemeculavalley.com
+1 951-252-2139

Worldwide Banners has officially launched its investment platform in Australia, offering eligible investors the opportunity to directly participate in brand advertising campaigns as an alternative asset class. Operating as an Authorised Representative of Capital Guard, a licensed and regulated entity in Australia, Worldwide Banners provides a transparent and structured approach to investing outside traditional markets.

While Australia’s investment landscape offers a wide range of opportunities, access to the performance-linked returns of brand advertising campaigns has traditionally been limited. Worldwide Banners aims to fill this gap by offering a platform that allows investors to diversify beyond conventional assets such as shares and bonds. The platform is designed for individuals seeking to access niche sectors and benefit from clearly defined investment parameters.

A spokesperson for Worldwide Banners said:

"Our expansion into the Australian market responds to increasing demand for alternatives that align with modern investment goals. Our platform offers access to curated advertising campaigns, with full visibility into each strategy, timeline, and sector. This allows investors to make informed decisions within a regulated framework.”

Investor capital is allocated across a selection of advertising campaigns spanning industries such as technology, retail, lifestyle, and travel. Each campaign is presented with detailed information, allowing users to review opportunities based on their own investment criteria. Importantly, these investments carry risk and returns are not guaranteed.

Meeting Demand for Alternative Investments

The platform has launched at a time when Australian investors, particularly pre-retirees and sophisticated individuals, are actively exploring options beyond traditional asset classes. As financial awareness grows, so does the appetite for assets that present unique risk/return profiles. Worldwide Banners seeks to support this shift by offering tools and transparency that allow investors to evaluate opportunities independently.

“Our role is to give Australians access to a professionally managed platform where they can explore brand advertising as an asset class. We provide comprehensive information on each campaign and ensure compliance with all local regulatory standards. No financial advice is given,” the spokesperson added.

About Worldwide Banners

Worldwide Banners is an alternative investment platform that enables eligible investors to participate in curated brand advertising campaigns. As an Authorised Representative of Capital Guard, Worldwide Banners operates within Australia’s financial services regulatory framework. The company focuses on transparency, compliance, and investor education, providing detailed disclosures on all investment offerings. For more information, visit worldwidebanners.com.au.

Media Contact

Chloe Anderson
media@worldwidebanners.com.au
+61 2 9059 7000

LegalBison, a global leader in regulatory advisory for the fintech and crypto sectors, has announced a strategic collaboration with the Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA) in the Philippines to modernize the region’s Offshore Financial Technology Licensing Rules and Regulations (OFTLRR).

The collaboration aims to enhance the legal, operational, and compliance frameworks governing digital asset service providers operating within the Cagayan Special Economic Zone and Freeport (CSEZFP), reinforcing CEZA’s commitment to innovation and international alignment.

Led by Eira-Federica Järvi, lead legal counsel at LegalBison, the project involved an in-depth review of CEZA’s current licensing standards, with recommendations based on extensive experience with EU and global regulatory regimes.

“We sought to align CEZA’s framework with global best practices in licensing, risk management, and consumer protection,” said Järvi. “These updates are designed to make CEZA more competitive, attracting responsible fintech innovation to the region.”

The refined licensing framework is expected to improve regulatory clarity, reduce entry barriers for qualified firms, and bolster investor confidence in CEZA’s offshore fintech ecosystem.

This collaboration reflects CEZA’s proactive approach to governance and LegalBison’s growing role as a cross-border compliance enabler. As part of its continued expansion, LegalBison is actively pursuing additional strategic initiatives across Asia and globally.

For more information or media inquiries, please visit www.legalbison.com or contact press@legalbison.com.

About LegalBison

Founded in 2020, LegalBison is a regulatory advisory firm headquartered in Tallinn, Estonia, serving FinTech, crypto, and other high-compliance sectors globally. The firm specializes in licensing, compliance, banking, and corporate structuring, offering tailored solutions to companies navigating complex regulatory environments. Learn more at www.legalbison.com.

Media Contact

LegalBison PR Team
pr@legalbison.com

LoveWatts, the world’s most powerful cultural media platform, today announces the debut of its inaugural global art exhibition featuring GODS MGMT, an anonymous conceptual art collective reshaping contemporary visual culture. This marks the official launch of LoveWatts’ entry into the global art market—signaling a bold new era of artist discovery, curation, and market leadership.

Founded in 2012, LoveWatts has grown into a digital cultural giant, operating a network of channels that reach over four million followers worldwide. From design and fashion to music, fine art, and entertainment, LoveWatts has become a dominant force in curating influence and amplifying the next generation of global tastemakers.

Now, following over a decade of unmatched cultural impact, LoveWatts is making a revolutionary move into the physical art world. With an ambitious global art program, the platform aims to disrupt the traditional gallery model, cultivating emerging talent and building a new infrastructure for art discovery and growth. This isn’t just curation—it’s cultural engineering.

“At LoveWatts, we’ve built a team with decades of experience developing the careers of blue-chip artists and shaping the visual language of our generation,” said Jordan Watts, founder of LoveWatts. “Our mission is clear: to take emerging talent and launch them onto the world’s biggest stage. This isn’t just an art program—it’s the Super Bowl for the next wave of culture-defining artists.”

GODS MGMT, LoveWatts’ debut artist, is an anonymous collective working at the intersection of mass media, celebrity, internet culture, and mythology. Through oil on canvas and a radical practice of appropriation, they dissect illusions of fame, identity, and authorship. Part Warhol, part Banksy, part digital disruptor—their work delivers a visceral critique of contemporary culture with the visual force of a global brand.

With GODS MGMT, LoveWatts is defining the template for a new kind of art institution—one powered by digital reach, curatorial excellence, and a community-first ethos. The platform is now positioned to lead the next chapter of global art innovation, transforming the way artists are discovered, championed, and collected.

This is not a moment. This is a movement.

About LoveWatts

Love Watts is a global art platform founded by Jordan “Watts” Watson in 2011. Known for blending street culture and fine art, it began as an Instagram feed and grew into a cultural force with over 4 million followers. Love Watts curates digital content, hosts exhibitions, and collaborates with major brands to make contemporary art more accessible and inclusive. For more information, visit www.lovewatts.com and follow @love.watts on Instagram.

Media Contact

Megan Shockley
megan@hyprlogic.com

Unlisted, the real estate platform focused exclusively on homes not currently for sale, was born from a familiar moment. Founder and CEO, Katie Hill, walked past a home and thought, “I love that house; I wonder if it could be mine someday?” Unlike most, she acted on that curiosity — and Unlisted was the result.

Unlisted’s origin story began with a friendly conversation. Hill approached her neighbor who owned the house she admired and expressed her interest. The owner wasn’t selling right then but was flattered, intrigued, and open to future conversations as he was planning for his retirement in the coming few years. Hill asked for a right of first refusal whenever the neighbor was ready to sell and he agreed.

That moment of neighborhood curiosity inspired many questions in Hill’s mind:

• Why don’t we do this more often?
• Why can’t buyers and homeowners express and collect interest in real estate ongoing?
• Why are we left to scramble when our dream home suddenly pops up on the market?
• Why are we uncertain how our home may perform when we list it for sale?

These questions became the blueprint for Unlisted, a growing platform built to unlock the hidden layer of the real estate market: homes that aren't actively for sale but might be — for the right offer, the right timeline, or the right terms.

Founded by Hill in 2022, Unlisted helps buyers express interest in any home, whether or not it’s on the market, and gives homeowners a private, pressure-free way to collect interest and better understand the marketability of their property. Homeowners can “claim” their home, control the way their property appears online, personalize its details and photos, and initiate conversations with buyers who join their Waitlist — all on their own timeline, and without committing to sell.

“We’re not trying to push people to sell,” says Hill. “We’re giving them the option to see what’s possible and make better-informed decisions.”

Unlisted works selectively with vetted real estate agents with proven track records, ensuring that when buyers and homeowners align on a transaction opportunity they have access to the local real estate resources they need.

“Unlisted’s technology is far-reaching and creates more opportunities but it still maintains the local, human connection that is so important in real estate.“ explains Jason Rowland, licensed real estate broker with the Rowland Group at Compass in Chicago and a selected partner with Unlisted. “I have deep knowledge of my local market and serve as a trusted resource for both buyers and homeowners on Unlisted who are exploring their options in the neighborhood. It’s the best of all worlds.”

Real estate requires that people make some of the most important decisions of their lives. Unlisted offers a new way to discover opportunities and information — helping both sides of the transaction achieve optimum outcomes.

Learn more at UnlistedHomes.com.

About Unlisted

Media Contact

Sophia Jacomet
sophia@unlistedinc.com

CoinsPaid, a leading crypto payment gateway, has reported a 38% year-on-year increase in crypto transactions among its travel-sector clients.

Driven by the need for faster, cheaper, and more secure cross-border payments, digital assets — particularly stablecoins — are becoming a standard option for airlines, online travel agencies (OTAs), and luxury service providers.

“Crypto isn’t a novelty anymore,” said Max Krupyshev, CEO of CoinsPaid. “In 2025, the benefits are clear — it reduces costs, removes geographical barriers, and enables instant settlement. For many travel providers, it’s simply a more efficient way to do business.”

CoinsPaid is seeing increased adoption from both mainstream and premium travel providers — including boutique hotels, aggregators, and luxury services. Mirai Flights, a private jet operator, has integrated CoinsPaid’s infrastructure and reports a 75% reduction in payment processing fees since implementation.

The company’s crypto solution supports over 20 digital assets, offers instant conversion to fiat to mitigate volatility, and complies with global KYC/AML standards. Onboarding can be completed in under 48 hours, with no specialist blockchain knowledge required.

“You don’t need to be a blockchain expert,” Krupyshev added. “You just need a gateway that works and keeps you compliant.”

Shift in Consumer Behaviour

Industry data also points to changing consumer habits. Travala.com, a blockchain-based travel booking platform, processed $103 million in bookings in 2024, with 80% of transactions settled in cryptocurrencies. Travala reports that crypto users spend 2.5 times more on average than customers paying with fiat.

Although early crypto travel adoption was largely driven by tech-savvy users, usage has since expanded. CoinsPaid cites rising interest among digital nomads, Gen Z freelancers, and consumers in countries with high inflation.

The company expects this trend to continue. “We’re seeing a real shift in who is using crypto — and why,” Krupyshev said. “It’s no longer just early adopters, it’s also practical users seeking efficiency and reliability.”

Looking ahead, CoinsPaid estimates that crypto could account for up to 15% of travel bookings in select markets — including Latin America, Southeast Asia, and Eastern Europe — by 2027, citing both demographic and infrastructure trends.

“Crypto is no longer an alternative,” Krupyshev concluded. “It’s becoming part of the core financial infrastructure – and travel is one of the first industries to benefit.”

About CoinsPaid

CoinsPaid is a leading crypto payment ecosystem serving over 800 merchants worldwide. The company provides a secure, compliant, and user-friendly platform that enables businesses to accept and manage digital asset payments with ease. With a strong focus on the travel, e-commerce, and entertainment sectors, CoinsPaid supports over 20 cryptocurrencies, instant conversions to fiat, and streamlined compliance with global regulations. Headquartered in Tallinn, Estonia, CoinsPaid is trusted by businesses across 100+ countries. For more information, visit coinspaid.com.

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

Media Contact

Support Team
info@coinspaid.com

Prime Care VIP, a mobile concierge healthcare company that provides top-tier primary and urgent care to patients for less than $5 per day, has hired leading South Florida board-certified family medicine physician Jarrod Frydman, D.O. as the company’s first chief medical officer. In this role, which began on June 16, Dr. Frydman will lead the company’s clinical team and spearhead the expansion of its services and operations.

Founded by Michael Kieffer, a nationally board-certified family nurse practitioner with a deep passion for wellness and self-care, and Dr. Lainey Kieffer, a doctor of nursing practice, nationally board-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, Prime Care VIP’s innovative mobile concierge service allows patients to avoid the costs and constraints of traditional healthcare while achieving better health outcomes.

The company offers patients same-day visits, 24/7 access to providers and a comprehensive suite of free prescription medications and labs—all without copays, deductibles, or surprise bills. Prime Care VIP allows employers to provide high-level, patient-centric care that results in no out-of-pocket healthcare expenses for employees, improved worker productivity and morale and a reduction in claim spend.

“The current healthcare system makes many people believe that they can't access high quality health care without expensive health insurance,” said Michael Kieffer, CEO of Prime Care VIP. “With our model at Prime Care VIP, our patients get leading medical professionals to come to their home or business, all for the price of a cup of coffee—and that money goes toward actual healthcare services, not financial products that gamble on your likelihood of using it. We’re excited to have Dr. Frydman join the team and help us continue to grow.”

“At Prime Care VIP, we take pride in providing top-tier care for our patients, and Dr. Frydman’s reputation speaks for itself,” said Dr. Lainey Kieffer, chief impact officer of Prime Care VIP. “I can’t wait to work with him as we expand our services and bring Prime Care VIP to new communities and companies.”

With 24 years of experience as a family physician in Broward County, Fla., Dr. Frydman brings significant knowledge and expertise to Prime Care VIP’s innovative mobile concierge care model. His addition to the team marks a significant milestone for Prime Care VIP as the company positions itself to expand into an institutional provider that can serve patients throughout the country and transform how individuals and businesses approach healthcare.

“I am honored to join Prime Care VIP and step into this role at such a pivotal time for the company,” said Frydman. “I have been treating families in South Florida for 24 years, and I’ve seen firsthand how the traditional healthcare system fails patients. The model that Michael and Lainey have created at Prime Care VIP puts patients first and lets doctors like me get back to what we signed up for: helping people get healthy.”

Dr. Frydman is a graduate of the University of Florida and Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine graduate, completing his medical residency at Broward Health Medical Center in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. In addition to his role at Prime Care VIP, Dr. Frydman is an associate professor of medicine at Nova Southeastern University, where he mentors young physicians and medical students. Dr. Frydman resides in Boca Raton, Fla. with his wife, Meredith, and two children, Corey and Hannah, and enjoys physical fitness, surfing, and traveling with his family and friends.

Prime Care VIP is currently licensed to provide concierge medical services in Florida, Colorado, New Mexico, Kansas, Texas and Georgia, with continued plans for growth and expansion into a fully national brand. With the addition of Dr. Frydman, Prime Care VIP now has six certified medical professionals on staff providing first-class care throughout its geographic footprint.

About Prime Care VIP

Media Contact

Matt Pressberg
matt@pressbergmedia.com

Roland Berger, a leading global management consultancy, has released its latest annual flagship report, Foresight 2025: Roland Berger China Annual Trends Report, which shares critical insights into the intensifying competitive challenge from Chinese companies' rapid development and cost efficiency. This dynamic is profoundly reshaping global markets, demanding urgent strategic adaptation from Western businesses.

In 2024, Chinese companies have achieved significant global expansion, with key goods exports like electrical machinery, advanced equipment, integrated circuits, and automobiles surging by 20–50%. Non-financial outbound investment increased by approximately 11% over 2023, surpassing USD $100 billion, with China ranking in the top three globally for overseas investment for 12 consecutive years. Many leading Chinese firms now generate over 50% of their revenue from overseas operations, alongside increasing profitability. This success spans commercial vehicles, automotive OES, automotive OEMs, and heavy machinery.

However, Roland Berger's analysis reveals a critical gap: Western firms lag in material cost, time to market, and customer attunement. This disadvantage leads to struggles against Chinese competitors, often being "too slow," "too expensive," and "too little attuned to changing customer needs." The need for decisive action is immediate.

Achieving "China Speed" and "China Costs"

Chinese OEMs achieve their remarkable speed and cost advantages through:

Speed:

• Accelerated product development: Characterized by shortened strategy phases, leveraging supplier platforms, and selective high vertical integration.
• Parallel processes & MVP approach: Emphasizing agile development and minimal viable products.
• Lean, hierarchical organization: Enabling quick market adaptation and accelerated global expansion.

Cost Levels:

• Conscious product trade-off: Design decisions are driven by customer attunement.
• Stringent cost-out operating model: Utilizing both technical and commercial levers.
• End-to-end procurement accountability: Direct responsibility for cost management across the value chain.

Strategic Imperatives for Western Companies

Roland Berger advises a focused, three-step strategic approach for Western companies:

1. Define your competitive arena: Understand where and how you compete, against whom, and with what products.

2. Benchmark and identify gaps:

• For "China speed," analyze your Product Development Process (PDP) and benchmark products to pinpoint inefficiencies and accelerate development.
• For "China costs," perform product teardowns and BOM analysis to identify cost gaps and develop strategies to close them.

3. Adjust your cost-out operating model.

Further Insights

"Foresight 2025" provides a comprehensive understanding of trends and strategic imperatives for succeeding in China's evolving economy. To download the report, click here.

About Roland Berger

Roland Berger is one of the world's leading strategy consultancies with a wide-ranging service portfolio for all relevant industries and business functions. Founded in 1967, Roland Berger is headquartered in Munich. Renowned for its expertise in transformation, innovation across all sectors and performance improvement, the consultancy has set itself the goal of embedding sustainability in all its projects. Roland Berger's revenues stood at more than 1 billion euros in 2023. For more information, visit www.rolandberger.com.

Media Contact

Stefan Lysak
marketing_americas@rolandberger.com

Johnson Law Group is proud to be Certified™ by Great Place To Work®. The prestigious award is based entirely on what current employees say about their experience working at Johnson Law Group. This year, 81% of employees at Johnson Law Group say it is a great place to work compared to 57% of employees at a typical U.S.-based company.

Great Place To Work is the global authority on workplace culture, employee experience, and the leadership behaviors proven to deliver market-leading revenue, employee retention and increased innovation.

"Great Place To Work Certification is a highly coveted achievement that requires consistent and intentional dedication to the overall employee experience," says Sarah Lewis-Kulin, the Vice President of Global Recognition at Great Place To Work. She emphasizes that Certification is the sole official recognition earned by the real-time feedback of employees regarding their company culture. “By successfully earning this recognition, it is evident that Johnson Law Group stands out as one of the top companies to work for, providing a great workplace environment for its employees."

“This Great Place To Work recognition is incredibly meaningful to us, and particularly to me as we continue to grow. It highlights our belief that when we prioritize our people, everything else falls into place,” says Brooke Del Solar, VP Talent Acquisition at Johnson Law Group. “The truth is, our success at Johnson Law Group is entirely thanks to our incredible team. They embody our values, drive our innovation, and make this a truly special place to work every day. We celebrate them and deeply appreciate everything they contributed to earn this outstanding achievement.” 

Brooke adds, “We're in an exciting build phase for our people programs, and our compass is our employees' voices. We're deeply invested in ensuring our direction is informed by those it impacts most. We're committed to actively listening and letting our people help shape the future of their experience here at Johnson Law Group, building programs and initiatives that truly resonate.”

According to Great Place To Work research, job seekers are 4.5 times more likely to find a great boss at a Certified great workplace. Additionally, employees at Certified workplaces are 93% more likely to look forward to coming to work, and are twice as likely to be paid fairly, earn a fair share of the company’s profits and have a fair chance at promotion.

About Johnson Law Group

Johnson Law Group is a global plaintiff law firm based in Houston with over two decades of experience fighting for individuals harmed by negligence. With active practices in U.S. personal injury and UK consumer claims, we are committed to setting new standards for equity and accountability. Our mission is to deliver bold, effective legal representation — and our vision is to be the most trusted and impactful plaintiff firm in the U.S. and beyond. Learn more at www.johnsonlawgroup.com.

Media Contact

Brooke Del Solar
bdelsolar@johnsonlawgroup.com

The Scientific Association for Botanical Education and Research (SABER) commends the Texas Legislature for passing Senate Bill 2308, a groundbreaking measure that would allocate up to $50 million toward clinical trials investigating ibogaine, a psychedelic compound with emerging potential in the treatment of opioid use disorder, PTSD, and traumatic brain injury.

The legislation, expected to be signed by Governor Greg Abbott and backed by former Governor Rick Perry, positions Texas as a national leader in publicly funded psychedelic research. It establishes a research consortium, prioritizes care for veterans, and creates a revenue-sharing model that ties scientific innovation directly to community benefit.

“Texas just set a new standard for how states can responsibly explore emerging therapies,” said Dr. Mary Hardy, M.D., a member of SABER’s Scientific Steering Committee. “This is science-driven policymaking that centers both patient safety and public health.”

The initiative marks a turning point in how state governments can respond to substance abuse and mental health crises with forward-thinking, scientifically credible approaches. While some clinics abroad offer ibogaine in unregulated settings, Texas’s model provides a blueprint for rigorous, ethical investigation.

• Largest state psychedelic research fund to date: Texas’s investment is the most significant of its kind, with public funds matched by private and academic partners.
• Veteran-focused and data-driven: Texas is advancing research into treatments for those failed by conventional options. The program emerged following powerful testimonies from military veterans.
• Built-in accountability: The state will retain 20% of any intellectual property generated through the trials, with a quarter of that revenue earmarked for veterans’ services.
• Addressing a critical evidence gap: Ibogaine remains a Schedule I substance under federal law. Texas’s regulated trial framework will generate the clinical data needed to evaluate its safety and effectiveness under medical oversight.

“SABER strongly supports research grounded in rigorous science and public health,” said Dr. Hardy. “By prioritizing research, Texas is setting a powerful example for how states can lead on innovative, accountable approaches to substance abuse and trauma treatment.”

About Scientific Association for Botanical Education and Research (SABER)

The Scientific Association for Botanical Education and Research (SABER) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing scientific understanding, regulation, and safe access to botanicals. Through research partnerships, policy advocacy, and public education, SABER works to ensure that natural products are studied responsibly, used safely, and regulated appropriately.​ To learn more, visit www.saberscience.org.

Media Contact

Paloma Lehfeldt
info@saberscience.org

Since 1995, the Fixed Income Analysts Society (FIASI) has recognized leaders and pioneers who have transformed capital markets and provided enduring legacies with a formal celebration of their accomplishments. This unique gala serves multiple purposes for the investment community by assembling past, present and future generations and celebrating the outstanding contributions of a select few. As FIASI celebrates its 50th Anniversary, we are very pleased to announce this larger class of Fixed Income “Hall of Fame” honorees:

• Gregory Davis, CFA President & Chief Investment Officer, Vanguard
• Mark Howard, CFA Senior Multi-Asset Specialist, BNP Paribas Securities
• Sharmin Mossavar-Rahmani, Chief Investment Officer of Wealth Management & Head of the Investment Strategy Group, Goldman Sachs
• Gregory Peters, Co-Chief Investment Officer, PGIM Fixed Income

These four professionals have distinguished themselves consistently for decades by providing exemplary service to their clients, firms, colleagues and communities. They have varied professional backgrounds across the buyside and sell side, from strategist to President, all of which speaks to the diverse make-up of the FIASI community. Their legacies for the industry and future generations of investors are expected to be long-lasting.

FIASI employs a rigorous process to evaluate numerous qualified candidates for this prestigious award. As part of our vetting process, past FIASI Hall of Fame recipients and previous FIASI Presidents review a broad range of market participants and researchers. The FIASI Board further reviews candidate accomplishments, legacy and community contributions before selecting its honorees.

According to Erin Lyons, President of FIASI, “extensive deliberations by our Advisory Committee led to the selection of these very deserving Hall of Fame honorees. The larger class of honorees is in keeping with the special year as FIASI celebrates its 50th anniversary since being founded. These four individuals have made long lasting contributions to the capital markets and thousands of people working therein.”

FIASI’s annual Hall of Fame gala provides a festive venue for market participants to recognize our industry’s leading executives. The 2025 celebration will be held on October 29th at the Union League Club in New York City. Those interested in recognizing the achievements of Mr. Davis, Mr. Howard, Ms. Mossavar-Rahmani or Mr. Peters by purchasing a table, attending the gala or placing a congratulatory advert in the event brochure should contact one of the FIASI representatives listed below.

• Jessica Broughton, FIASI Hall of Fame Chair, Jessica.broughton@fiasi.org  
• Erin Lyons, FIASI President, Erin.lyons@fiasi.org
• Lauren Nauser, FIASI Executive Director, nauser@fiasi.org

Follow us on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/fiasi/ or www.linkedin.com/company/fiasi and join the discussion with the hashtag #FIASI.

About Fixed Income Analysts Society (FIASI)

The Fixed Income Analysts Society (FIASI), based in New York, is a not-for-profit professional society focused on providing education and networking opportunities to the fixed income community. Since our inception over four decades ago, we have stood as a beacon of knowledge and collaboration for individuals involved in the fixed income realm. Our vision is to encompass a wide range of professionals from various disciplines and sectors, including buy side, sell side, intermediaries, quants, academics, and those specializing in credit, rates, economics, securitized products, foreign exchange, emerging markets, municipal finance, and commodities. To learn more about our mission, membership benefits, and upcoming events, please visit our website at fiasi.org. 

Media Contact

Lauren Nauser
nauser@fiasi.org

Gregor Wynne Arney, PLLC is pleased to announce that Kim Ogg, former Harris County district attorney, has joined the firm as a partner.

Ms. Ogg served as Harris County’s top prosecutor from January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2024, representing more than 4.5 million residents and leading the district attorney’s office for eight years in America’s third-most-populous county.

During her tenure, she championed transformative policies, including

• Launching a data-driven review of ‘bail reform,’ issuing a detailed 60‑page report in 2021 highlighting increases in pretrial recidivism and bond failures, then advocating for state legislation tightening pretrial release standards;
• Initiating a mental health diversion program that sent more than 13,000 non-violent, mentally ill offenders to treatment instead of jail;
• Instituting independent review of all police-involved shootings; and
• Prioritizing prosecution of repeat violent offenders and public corruption cases.

“We are thrilled to have Kim join our legal team. The synergy between our legal experts and Kim’s versatile practice experience is staggering. Kim Ogg is a high-profile, well-seasoned litigator with decades of experience in litigation, government relations, and civic leadership. GWA looks forward to expanding our federal and state criminal defense practice, civil litigation work, and both sides of complex investigations,” Michael Wynne, one of the founding partners of Gregor Wynne Arney, said.

Prior to her two terms as the Harris County district attorney, Ogg managed her own civil and criminal practice, served as a chief prosecutor under DA John Holmes, was named Houston’s first anti‑gang task force director, and was the executive director of Crime Stoppers of Houston.

“Gregor Wynne Arney is a perfect fit. It allows me to offer my career experience of more than 130 jury trials, a track record of governmental reform and years of community engagement to a premier litigation boutique. I’m an aggressive advocate and look forward to representing clients before jurors who know and trust me to be on the right side of the issues,” Ogg said.

“Kim’s strategic insight, courtroom strength, and policy savvy will be an incredible asset to both our criminal and civil litigation teams and, most importantly, for our clients,” Tom Gregor, founding partner, Gregor Wynne Arney said.

About Gregor Wynne Arney

Gregor Wynne Arney, PLLC is a Houston-based litigation boutique with a national and international footprint. The firm represents clients in high-stakes commercial litigation, white-collar criminal defense, media law, international law, asset forfeiture and restitution disputes, securities matters, and government investigations. 

The firm has an undefeated record defending against Voting Rights Act claims in Texas, as well as battleground states like Georgia and Arizona, protecting politically active clients from baseless litigation. The firm recently secured landmark acquittals in a federal healthcare fraud jury trial related to alleged Medicare fraud and Anti-Kickback violations and has had a string of victories in criminal environmental matters. The Firm has also successfully represented foreign political figures.

For more information, visit gwafirm.com. 

Media Contact

Amanda Orr
amanda@orrstrategygroup.com

MyPhillyLawyer has been recognized as Philadelphia’s premier choice for personal injury legal services, winning gold in the Personal Injury category of the Philly Favs Contest, sponsored by the Philadelphia Inquirer. This accolade underscores the firm’s dedication to providing exceptional legal representation for individuals facing personal injury challenges in the city.

The Philly Favs Contest allows the Philadelphia community to vote for their favorite local businesses across various categories, highlighting the firms and services that have made a significant impact on the lives of residents. MyPhillyLawyer's gold medal win in the Personal Injury category signifies not only the firm’s commitment to excellence but also its strong reputation among clients and the community at large.

In addition to winning the top honor in personal injury law, MyPhillyLawyer earned silver in the Defense category and bronze in Workers' Compensation and Estate Planning. These achievements reflect the firm’s comprehensive legal knowledge and ability to serve diverse client needs across multiple practice areas.

"We are truly honored to be named Philly's Favorite Personal Injury Lawyers," said Dean Weitzman. “This recognition is a testament to our dedicated team, who work tirelessly to advocate for our clients. We are grateful to the Philadelphia community for their support and trust in our services."

MyPhillyLawyer has built a strong reputation in Philadelphia for its client-centered approach and extensive experience in personal injury cases, ranging from auto accidents to medical malpractice. The firm emphasizes the importance of communication, transparency, and personalized service in navigating the complexities of personal injury claims.

As the legal landscape continues to evolve, MyPhillyLawyer remains steadfast in its mission to provide compassionate and effective legal representation for those injured due to the negligence of others. The firm’s gold medal win serves as a reminder of its unwavering commitment to justice and advocacy for its clients.

The Philly Favs Contest results highlight the strong ties between local businesses and the communities they serve. By recognizing MyPhillyLawyer, the public has acknowledged the firm’s positive impact on Philadelphia’s legal landscape, reinforcing its position as a leading provider of personal injury legal services.

About MyPhillyLawyer

MyPhillyLawyer is a well-established personal injury law firm serving Greater Philadelphia and the surrounding area. With over 35 years of experience and many successful settlements and jury verdicts, our personal injury attorneys are well known and respected and have recovered over half a billion dollars for our clients. For more information, visit www.myphillylawyer.com.

Media Contact

Jason Bland
jbland@lawfirmnewswire.com

Originally popularized in Europe, tilt and turn windows are steadily gaining ground in the United States as a sophisticated, high-performance alternative to standard double-hung or casement designs. With dual-function versatility, superior energy efficiency, and customizable aesthetics, these windows are not just for ultra-modern homes—they’re an excellent fit for all types of American architecture, from historical restorations to contemporary new builds, light commercial spaces, and high-end residences.

What Makes Tilt and Turn Windows So Special?

Several factors contribute to their uniqueness, starting with frame materials and extending through design customization, performance certifications and functional easiness.

Frame materials

uPVC windows are the most accessible option, delivering excellent insulation, longevity, and ease of maintenance. Aluminum frames, while more expensive, offer unmatched strength and can support large, uninterrupted panes of glass with slim, elegant profiles—perfect for grand openings and scenic views.

Design customization

The range of aesthetic possibilities is vast. Standard white frames are most economical, but homeowners can select from a broad RAL color palette or opt for wood-look finishes like Golden Oak or Anthracite Wood. These premium veneers authentically replicate the character of natural materials, making them ideal for historical homes and traditional architecture.

Contemporary projects may prefer brushed aluminum effects or minimalist color schemes, while designers working on commercial or luxury residential buildings can take advantage of the sleek, architectural-grade finishes available. Hardware options—from modern, minimal handles to advanced security designs—further support personalization.

Energy efficiency and certification

Performance matters, especially in diverse U.S. climates. Tilt and turn windows are engineered for energy savings and resilience under extreme weather conditions.

Passive house standards

Some models meet the rigorous Passive House certification, ensuring elite thermal performance and significantly reducing heating and cooling bills over time.

Hurricane resistance

In coastal or storm-prone areas, choosing HVHZ-certified models (rated DP-90 or higher) delivers crucial protection against wind, impact, and debris—without compromising visual elegance.

Day-to-day ease of use

Tilt and turn windows are remarkably easy to operate. One handle controls it all. With a simple turn, you can fully open the window inward, tilt it at the top for gentle airflow, or activate micro-ventilation for a subtle, energy-efficient breeze. This intuitive functionality enhances everyday comfort and convenience. Say goodbye to stubborn sliding tracks and hard-to-reach latches-this is window operation, redefined.

How Tilt and Turn Windows Compare to Other Windows

With their inward-opening dual-action mechanism, tilt and turn windows provide both full access and gentle ventilation—ideal for any room, any style, and any structure. Unlike traditional windows, they seal tightly with multi-point locking, maximizing insulation and noise reduction.

Long-Term Value: A Sound Investment

Energy Savings

Advanced glazing and tight seals lead to lower energy bills, making them a smart eco-friendly choice.

Maintenance

Unlike traditional windows, which often need new weather stripping every 5–7 years, tilt and turn models retain their seal for decades with minimal upkeep.

Durability

Engineered with high-grade hardware, these windows can maintain performance well beyond 20 years.

Property Value

Whether used in luxury homes or historic renovations, these windows frequently increase perceived property value and draw attention in real estate listings.

Final Thought

Tilt and turn windows represent more than just a trend—they're a practical, high-end solution suitable for virtually any building type in the U.S. Whether you're restoring a heritage home, building a contemporary residence, upgrading a light commercial space, or tackling a luxury renovation, these windows offer unmatched versatility, aesthetics, and performance that make the investment worthwhile.

About OKNOPLAST

OKNOPLAST GROUP is an international company belonging to the top manufacturers of uPVC windows and doors in Europe. It operates in 21 markets: Austria, Canada, Cameroon, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland, Sweden, Italy, Hungary, Spain, Belgium, South Ireland, United Kingdom, USA, New Zealand. The company holds five brands: OKNOPLAST, WnD, Aluhaus, Skyvi and HERMET 10, ensuring even greater diversification of the product range and its precise adaptation to customer needs. For more information, visit oknoplast.us.

Media Contact

Gemma Munoz Dominguez
gemma.munoz@getfluence.com

Based on anonymised usage data and discussions with partner companies, Wohnen.de today presented its home trends for 2025. According to its own surveys, five megatrends are emerging that will significantly shape interior design in the coming year. The findings underscore a clear shift in values toward sustainability, smart technology and multifunctional spaces.

A Shift in Values Within Our Own Four Walls

The home is increasingly becoming a multifunctional centre of life: working, relaxing, socialising, cooking and hobbies are merging. At the same time, there is a growing desire for natural materials and energy-efficient technology. "Our community clearly shows that in 2025, authenticity, resource conservation and technological support will go hand in hand," says Christoph Donner, managing director of D&S Trading GbR, operator of Wohnen.de.

Five Home Trends That Will Shape 2025

1. Biophilic Design 2.0: CO2 neutrality with special materials 

Natural surfaces, planted room dividers and mineral wall paints bring the outdoors indoors. New are regenerative materials such as mushroom mycelium, which give furniture and acoustic panels an almost completely CO2-neutral balance. In addition, intelligent daylight systems use light-directing films and sensors to simulate the natural course of the sun, thus promoting concentration in the home office and relaxation in the evening.

2. Circular chic: modular furniture is gaining popularity

Modular furniture, recycled metals and rental options make a statement for resource conservation. Instead of a throwaway mentality, closed-loop concepts will dominate in 2025: sofas that can be refreshed using a plug-in system, or shelves whose individual modules can be easily reordered as needed. More and more manufacturers are declaring material passports that show exact recycling routes and make the ecological footprint transparent.

3. AI-supported smart home: this is how modern living works

Sensors and learning algorithms take over lighting, heating and security control. What's special in 2025: systems work proactively – they recognise maintenance needs before defects occur and coordinate across manufacturers via the Matter standard. New gesture and voice interfaces enable intuitive control, while local data processing protects sensitive living profiles.

4. Micro-living recharged: small living spaces make a big impact

Extendable kitchen units, foldable workstations and stackable seating modules ensure that even floor plans under 40 m² appear spacious. Sliding doors made of lightweight sandwich panels divide rooms in seconds; fold-up beds create a fully-fledged training or studio area during the day. The background to this is the ongoing price pressure in metropolitan areas, which necessitates compact but versatile living solutions.

5. Bold Heritage: Vintage furniture with a new look

Strong colours such as 'Digital Aubergine' or 'Modern Ochre' meet selected vintage pieces. The new desire for maximalism is reflected in pattern mixes, velvet surfaces and eye-catching wallpapers with historical motifs. Originals from the 1960s are being refurbished to combine sustainability with character; hand-knotted carpets and restored ceramic lamps tell individual stories and provide a deliberate counterpoint to sleek high-tech objects.

Sustainability and Energy Efficiency as a Cross-Cutting issue

Rising energy costs are increasingly directing interest towards heat pumps, panel heating and insulation materials made from renewable raw materials. Combinations of smart control and efficient technology can significantly reduce the energy requirements of an average household without compromising on aesthetics.

About Wohnen.de

Wohnen.de is a registered trademark of D&S Trading GbR, based in Eslohe (North Rhine-Westphalia). The owner-managed company, run by Christoph Donner and Matthias Schaub, has been operating an e-commerce platform since 2007, which now comprises tens of thousands of items from all areas of the home. An international network of logistics partners enables free shipping and returns within Germany. To date, over 90,000 customers have used this service. Sustainability is firmly anchored in the company's mission statement; among other things, the company participates in the 'CO2-neutral website' initiative. For more information, visit www.wohnen.de.

Media Contact

Rainer Brosy
rb@sunset-digital.com