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April 17, 2025 5:09 PM
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MATTOON, IL

Jeremy Yost's Vision Realized with Mattoon's New 25-Unit Supportive Housing Development

Yost Management Services, a leading full-service real estate development company, today announced that The Commons of Mattoon, a 25-unit supportive housing development designed for low-income residents, particularly those with disabilities, is already making a lasting impact. Opened in November 2024, this modern housing facility reflects the vision of Jeremy Yost, CEO of Yost Management Services, to create affordable housing solutions for underserved communities across Illinois.

The project, which is now fully occupied, has exceeded expectations in its first few months of operation. "This development isn’t just about providing housing; it’s about creating a stable environment where people can rebuild their lives," Yost said. "Seeing this vision come to life has been incredibly fulfilling, and the positive response from our residents shows just how important this project is."

Located on the south side of Mattoon, The Commons of Mattoon offers 25 one-bedroom units, each approximately 900 square feet. With modern finishes and spacious layouts, the apartments provide comfortable, welcoming homes for the residents. The development also features a shared laundry facility and easy access to local amenities, helping to create a self-sufficient living environment.

The development was completed in just 89 days, a timeline that impressed both the community and industry experts. Yost, who oversaw the project from start to finish, praised his team for their efficiency and dedication and stated, "We were determined to deliver this project on time and within budget, and we did just that."

The $8.4 million project was funded through the Illinois Affordable Housing Trust Fund and the National Housing Trust Fund, with support from the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA). Yost expressed his gratitude for the critical role the IHDA played in making the project possible.

"I’m thankful for the IHDA’s partnership and investment," Yost said. "Their commitment to funding affordable housing projects like this one is key to solving the housing crisis in Illinois."

Community leaders have praised the positive impact The Commons of Mattoon is already having on the local area. Ed Dowd, Executive Director of the Mattoon Chamber of Commerce, noted, "This project is not only addressing an urgent need for affordable housing but also serving as a model for public-private collaboration. Jeremy’s leadership has made a real difference for our community."

Christine Haley, Illinois Chief Homelessness Officer, added, "The Commons of Mattoon is a perfect example of the state’s ongoing efforts to provide safe, affordable housing. Jeremy’s leadership in this project has played a vital role in advancing this mission."

The success of The Commons of Mattoon also adds to Yost’s growing reputation as a leader in the affordable housing sector. Known for his ability to deliver high-quality, cost-effective housing quickly, Yost Management Services is poised to continue making a significant impact on the state’s housing landscape.

Brice Hutchcraft, an IHDA board member, highlighted the broader economic benefits of such projects. "Affordable housing developments like this one improve public health, reduce the burden on emergency services, and enhance the local economy," Hutchcraft said. "Jeremy’s work is having a lasting positive impact on the community."

For Yost, the completion of The Commons of Mattoon is just the beginning. With future plans to expand his company’s reach and continue developing similar affordable housing projects, his commitment to improving the lives of residents remains at the forefront of his work.

About Yost Management Services

Yost Management Services is a full-service real estate development and management firm specializing in affordable and supportive housing across Illinois. Led by founder and CEO Jeremy Yost, the company is known for its ability to deliver high-quality, cost-effective housing solutions at rapid speed without compromising on design or impact. With a growing portfolio of projects focused on low-income and underserved populations, Yost Management Services continues to set new standards for efficiency, accountability, and community-centered development in the affordable housing sector. For more information, visit www.yost-management.com.

Media Contact

Yost Management Services Inc.
leasing@yost-management.com

April 17, 2025 12:00 PM
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NEW YORK, NY

Pronto Translations Releases Essential Interpreter Guide for Business Conferences

Pronto Translations, a New York-based provider of professional translation and interpretation services, has released an in-depth guide detailing best practices for organizing business conferences that require simultaneous or consecutive interpretation. The guide aims to equip event organizers with critical knowledge on interpreter deployment, equipment logistics, and pre-event preparation to ensure clarity, professionalism, and cross-cultural engagement.

With over 21 years of experience in supporting multilingual communication at high-level international events, Pronto Translations underscores the importance of strategic planning when incorporating interpretation services into business conferences. The guide outlines key considerations for ensuring the success of events involving participants from diverse linguistic backgrounds.
 
To explore these recommendations in greater depth—and to access additional best practices not covered in this overview—visit the full guide here: https://prontotranslations.com/conference-interpreting-with-simultaneous-interpreters/

Appropriate Interpreter Allocation 

One of the most significant factors in delivering a successful multilingual conference is allocating interpreters correctly based on the event’s structure and duration. For professional events requiring interpretation beyond 20 uninterrupted minutes, it is essential to provide a team of two simultaneous interpreters per language. For executive-level meetings—particularly those involving heads of state or senior corporate leadership—simultaneous interpretation should be employed even for segments exceeding five minutes.

In contrast, consecutive interpretation may be sufficient for informal or community events with shorter speaking durations (under 30 minutes). However, Pronto Translations advises against using consecutive interpretation for professional settings due to the resultant doubling of event duration, potential audience disengagement, and diminished perceived professionalism.

Interpreter Qualification and Specialization 

The guide stresses the importance of interpreter expertise, especially in high-profile settings. Senior-level interpreters are expected to possess formal education from institutions specializing in translation and interpretation and a minimum of ten years of experience in international forums such as United Nations agencies or major business summits.

Furthermore, event organizers must communicate whether interpretation is required in both directions (e.g., English to French and vice versa). Some interpreters are adept at bidirectional interpretation, while others are suited primarily for one direction. Clarifying this in advance is vital to proper assignment.

Interpreter Visibility and Line of Sight

While often overlooked, visual access to the speaker plays a crucial role in interpretation quality. Certain interpreters require line of sight to view not only facial expressions and lip movements but also visual cues such as gestures or on-screen presentations. This requirement should be considered when planning room layouts, particularly when booths are positioned at the rear of the venue.

Equipment Standards and Configuration 

The guide provides comprehensive recommendations on interpretation equipment. For high-level events, full-size soundproof booths and adequate headset distribution for the audience are mandatory. Each language requires a booth accommodating two interpreters. Tabletop booths, while more compact and cost-effective, are suitable only for venues with space constraints and should be placed away from the audience due to their open-back design.

For less formal or smaller-scale events, mobile interpretation setups may be used, provided the wireless connection is stable and interference-free. However, this solution is not suitable for multilingual events with large audiences or where signal reliability cannot be guaranteed.

Although some organizations propose app-based interpretation solutions, Pronto Translations strongly advises against them due to technical incompatibilities, inconsistent audio quality, and the risk of audience members facing challenges with downloading and usage.

Pre-Event Planning and Coordination 

Successful execution of conference interpretation requires meticulous pre-event planning. Pronto Translations recommends initiating contact with the language service provider at least one month in advance, or earlier during peak periods such as the United Nations General Assembly. Detailed event information must be provided when requesting quotes, including scheduling, language needs, audience size, technical requirements, and speaker support.

Organizers are urged to confirm interpreter and equipment bookings as early as possible, as demand during peak times can exceed local availability. High-caliber interpreters often receive multiple requests and cannot guarantee availability without a formal commitment.

Interpreter Preparation and Event Materials 

Once interpreters are secured, providing preparatory materials is essential for ensuring accuracy and fluency during interpretation. Organizers should share all relevant documentation—agendas, presentation slides, speaker bios, speeches, and attendee lists—as early as possible, including updates. 
Where feasible, the provision of printed or digital materials in all conference languages enhances participant engagement and reflects organizational professionalism.

Logistical and Visa Considerations 

The guide highlights a frequently overlooked issue: speaker visa confirmation. Numerous last-minute interpretation cancellations stem from visa denials. Event organizers are encouraged to confirm travel documentation well in advance to avoid financial penalties and scheduling disruptions.

Speaker Awareness and Preparedness 

Speakers must be informed that interpretation will occur in real-time and should be reminded to speak clearly and at a measured pace. In the case of consecutive interpretation, presenters must also be instructed to pause at appropriate intervals, ensuring the interpreter can convey their message accurately.

Anticipating the Unexpected 

Finally, Pronto Translations advises organizers to communicate any unique or non-standard requirements in advance. Properly briefing the interpreting agency can prevent last-minute disruptions and ensure the smooth delivery of multilingual content throughout the event.

About Pronto Translations

With a rich heritage spanning a quarter of a century, Pronto Translations is a vanguard in the translation and interpretation industry. Our unparalleled service has made us an international provider of choice for professional linguistic solutions. We invite you to learn more about our offerings and how we can support your global communication needs by visiting https://prontotranslations.com.

Media Contact

Joshua B. Cohen
clientservices@prontotranslations.com
+1 646-984-4073

April 17, 2025 11:49 AM
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VERNON HILLS, IL

Lake County Regional Office of Education (ROE) Names MagicSchool AI as Its Official AI Platform Partner

The Lake County Regional Office of Education (ROE) today announced a partnership with MagicSchool AI, naming the company as the official AI partner for its districts across Illinois. This strategic initiative will provide Lake County ROE’s schools with exclusive access to MagicSchool's award-winning AI tools at special pricing for institution-wide purchases when they sign up by June 1, 2025. MagicSchool is already trusted by millions of educators nationwide, including thousands across Illinois, making it the most widely adopted AI platform in education.

Empowering Illinois Educators with Trusted AI Tools

At MagicSchool, teachers are considered irreplaceable, which is why its tools are designed with the realities of teaching in mind. Founded and led by Adeel Khan, a former teacher and founding principal of a top-performing public high school in Denver, Adeel created MagicSchool with a mission to bring an AI assistant to every teacher in the world and help tackle the crisis of teacher burnout. The company is also focused on bringing responsible AI to students and educating them on the technology to prepare them for the future.

"Through the thousands of Illinois educators who are currently using MagicSchool, we've seen firsthand the incredible impact that our AI tools can have on teacher workload and student engagement," said Adeel Khan, founder and CEO of MagicSchool. "By making MagicSchool more accessible through this partnership with the Lake County Regional Office of Education, we're able to better support educators and simultaneously prepare students for a future where AI literacy will be essential.”

"We are excited to partner with MagicSchool to bring this valuable tool to educators and students across Illinois. This tool will support school districts as they continue to educate and inspire learners across the state," said Dr. Michael Karner, Lake County Regional Superintendent of Schools. "This partnership aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing Lake County educators with innovative resources that enhance both teaching and learning experiences while actively addressing the challenges our educators face daily."

MagicSchool’s Benefits for Educators and Students

MagicSchool offers a secure, purpose-built solution that protects student data while streamlining teachers' workloads. The user-friendly platform features over 80 pre-built tools for educators and more than 50 tools for students, eliminating the complications and fears associated with generic AI solutions. Teachers can quickly generate relevant, customized content that aligns with Illinois’ academic standards.

MagicSchool helps schools:

  • Save Time: Lighten educator workload with lesson planning, assessment creation, feedback tools and more.
  • Enhance Teaching: Access a comprehensive suite of AI tools tailored for educators to support the diverse needs of their students.
  • Support Students: Promote responsible AI literacy and provide engaging, educator-led learning experiences through MagicStudent.
  • Customize at the School/District Level: Build and launch tools that align with your district's goals, curriculum and policies.
  • Make Informed Decisions: Use secure, centralized dashboards to track data and inform strategy across schools.

Partnership and Pricing Details

Districts interested in implementing MagicSchool can take advantage of special tiered pricing for institution-wide purchases when they sign up through Lake County ROE by June 1, 2025.

For more information on partnership benefits and to get started, educators can visit: www.magicschool.ai/landing-pages/lake-county-roe

About MagicSchool AI

MagicSchool is the most loved, secure and trusted AI platform for educators and students — with nearly every U.S. school district and 160 countries around the world using the platform. MagicSchool is built for educators, by educators, providing a genuine opportunity to reclaim valuable time for educators, combat burnout and elevate the art of teaching. To learn more, visit www.magicschool.ai.

About Lake County Regional Office of Education (ROE)

Lake County Regional Office of Education serves as an advocate for education by providing effective leadership, performing regulatory functions in partnership with the Illinois State Board of Education as directed by the School Code of Illinois, coordinating and delivering state and local services and disseminating information to educators, school districts and the community of Lake County Illinois. To learn more, visit www.lake.k12.il.us.

Media Contact

Kirsten Underwood
press@magicschool.ai

April 17, 2025 9:10 AM
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SAN FRANCISCO, CA

Bee Maps Launches Beekeeper: Smarter Vehicle Intelligence for the Real World

Bee Maps today announced the launch of Beekeeper, a new AI application paired with the Bee LTE device that helps businesses turn their vehicles into a source of real-time insight and location awareness.

Beekeeper replaces the need for outdated, bulky dashboards and intrusive, glorified “nanny cams.” Instead, it gives you a live, simple view of what’s happening across your vehicles—using AI to highlight what matters and ignore what doesn’t.

“We didn’t set out to build just another camera system,” said Ariel Seidman, CEO and co-founder of Bee Maps. “We built Beekeeper by riding with drivers and listening to what operations teams actually need. They don’t want more footage—they want answers. So we focused on making a system that sees the road, understands it, and delivers real intelligence without all the noise.”

With Beekeeper, companies can see where their vehicles are, understand what’s slowing them down, and flag risks as they happen. The Bee device captures and processes video and location data on the edge—no manual reviewing, no lag, no bloat.

Beekeeper also taps into Bee Maps’ deep spatial intelligence engine. That means it’s not just about tracking movement—it understands street-level conditions like detours, blind intersections, weigh station delays, complex last-mile delivery spots, and more. The result: smarter deliveries, safer routes, and fewer surprises.

What’s included:

  • Chat-Based Interface: Just ask: “Which trucks were near JFK yesterday?” or “Is the weigh station open?” No training needed. It works like a conversation.
  • Live Vehicle Tracking and History: See where every vehicle is now, where it’s been, and how it got there—no need to dig through multiple apps or tools.
  • Real-Time AI Event Detection: Automatically detects swerving, speeding, harsh braking, and other risky behaviors—so you know what’s happening, when it matters.
  • Instant Visual Feedback: Request a visual snapshot from any vehicle—online or offline—to get full context fast.
  • Auto-Generated Reports: Get simple summaries and charts showing key insights—miles driven, safety events, idling, and more. No fluff. Just signal.

For more information about the Beekeeper AI application, see our launch blog here.
Click here to read more about why we built Beekeeper now and the value of an AI-built approach.

Beekeeper is available now, with flexible pricing based on what your business actually needs. To learn more: https://beemaps.com/bee/fleets

About Bee Maps

Bee Maps, a wholly owned subsidiary of Hivemapper Inc., is a pioneering brand dedicated to providing the freshest and most precise mapping data available. By leveraging the unique capabilities of the Hivemapper Network, Bee Maps offers a range of products designed to meet the growing demand for real-time, high-quality map data across various industries. For more information, visit beemaps.com and docs.beemaps.com.

About Hivemapper

Hivemapper is dedicated to democratizing fleet management technology for commercial operators worldwide. By combining advanced AI dashcam hardware with intuitive analytics software, Hivemapper delivers real-time data that helps fleets optimize routing, increase safety, and reduce costs. With the launch of Beekeeper, Hivemapper continues its mission to support smaller fleets that power essential services—whether it’s pest control, telecom repairs, traveling nurses, or local delivery.

Media Contact

JT Eger
jt.eger@beemaps.com

April 17, 2025 7:44 AM
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LONDON, United Kingdom

The European: Professor Gary Yohe’s Hope in the Face of Despair as Earth Day Approaches

According to Gary Wynn Yohe, Huffington Foundation Professor of Economics and Environmental Studies, Emeritus at Wesleyan University, as the world prepares to commemorate the 55th anniversary of Earth Day on April 22, the theme “Our Power, Our Planet” highlights the growing urgency of collective action in the face of escalating environmental and political challenges.

This year’s Earth Day calls on individuals, communities, and organizations across the globe to elevate grassroots actions that promote sustainability and resilience. Coordinated efforts will focus on local solutions to a global crisis that is now considered one of the most pressing threats to human life in recorded history.

“We are no longer dealing with future hypotheticals,” said Prof. Yohe. “Climate change is already reshaping our planet and affecting human health, security, and survival in profound ways.”

In 2025, record-breaking global temperatures have already intensified climate-related disasters — from catastrophic wildfires and unprecedented floods to prolonged droughts and extreme weather events. Scientists warn that the accelerating climate crisis presents an existential threat, not in the abstract sense of human extinction, but in the very real and statistical likelihood that individuals around the world will face fatal consequences due to climate-related phenomena.

At the same time, efforts to combat climate change have encountered formidable headwinds from geopolitical instability. Analysts and civil society leaders have raised alarms about rising authoritarianism in the United States and its impact on climate science, democratic institutions, and environmental policy. Observers note that the new presidential administration’s actions have undermined key protections and rolled back decades of progress on climate and democratic engagement.

Despite these daunting obstacles, Earth Day organizers and environmental advocates remain steadfast in their mission. While optimism may have dimmed for some, many still draw strength from hope — a concept famously captured by Czech statesman Václav Havel, who defined hope not as the expectation of a positive outcome, but as the conviction that meaningful action is worthwhile, regardless of results:

“Hope is definitely NOT the same as optimism. It’s not the conviction that something will turn out well, but the certainty that [doing] something makes sense, regardless of how it turns out. It is hope, above all, that gives us strength to live and to continually try new things, even in conditions that seem as hopeless as ours do, here and now. In the face of this absurdity, life is too precious a thing to permit its devaluation by living pointlessly, emptily, without meaning, without love, and, finally, without hope.”

This year’s Earth Day underscores the importance of empowering change-makers within communities, companies, and institutions. These intermediate actors — outside the highest political echelons — have the capacity to implement practical, innovative, and locally impactful environmental solutions.

Grassroots support for these leaders and initiatives can help bypass federal gridlock and reinvigorate climate action from the ground up. Earth Day 2025 offers a platform for connecting these efforts and inspiring others to join in.

“As we reflect on where we’ve been since 1970, the message is clear,” said Prof. Yohe. “When it comes to climate risk, humanity faces three choices: abate, adapt, or suffer. Our job now is to do everything in our power to advance the first two and reduce the third.”

About Professor Gary Yohe

Gary Wynn Yohe is the Huffington Foundation Professor of Economics and Environmental Studies, Emeritus, at Wesleyan University. He is a researcher on the economics of climate change and integrated assessment modeling and was a senior member of the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) that was awarded a share of the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize with Al Gore. Yohe was also a member of the New York City Panel on Climate Change and the standing Committee on the Human Dimensions of Global Change of the National Academy of Sciences. He was a standing member of the National Academy of Sciences' Committee on the Human Dimensions of Global Change and was a vice-chair of the Third National Climate Assessment. He earned his PhD from Yale University and co-authored (with renowned University of Pennsylvania economist, the late Edwin Mansfield) the seminal textbook "Microeconomics: Theory and Applications,” through its eleventh edition.

About CP Media Global Limited

The European is a quarterly business publication by CP Media Global Ltd, based in London and established in 2008. Available in both print and digital formats, the magazine is distributed globally at major events, trade fairs, and airports, reaching a wide network of decision-makers across Europe, MENA, LATAM, North America, and Asia. Covering a broad spectrum of topics — including Banking & Finance, Foreign Direct Investment, Sustainability, ESG, Energy, Shipping, Aviation, Technology, Real Estate, and Business Travel — The European delivers in-depth reporting and analysis on key trends shaping the global business landscape. With a commitment to thought-provoking and objective journalism, the magazine offers expert insight, success stories, and strategic perspectives to help leaders navigate the evolving economic, political, and cultural environment. For more information, visit https://the-european.eu.

Media Contact

Jonathan Edwards
enquiries@cpmediaglobal.com

April 16, 2025 3:15 PM
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ALMATY, Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan: Central Asia’s Strategic Automotive Hub

Central Asia, comprising Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan, is among the world’s most dynamically developing economies. Driven by political and economic reforms, rapid population growth, urbanization, and increasing incomes, the automotive market is experiencing steady growth, fueling demand for both new vehicles and local production. As a result, the region is becoming one of the most promising international investment destinations.

Uzbekistan’s automotive industry has a 30-year history. Chevrolet is the most popular brand among manufactured automobiles. Recently, Uzbekistan has actively expanded its exports, delivering vehicles to neighboring countries and beyond the region. Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan currently remain largely import-dependent, but interest in local automotive production is gradually increasing.

Against this backdrop, Kazakhstan, a long-standing economic leader in Central Asia, is emerging as a key player in automotive manufacturing too. Over the past five years, despite declining production volumes in major global economies, Kazakhstan has tripled its automotive output. Special attention is being paid to development of digitalization, artificial intelligence, industrial infrastructure, and attracting foreign investments. It’s important to notice, that Kazakhstan’s export potential significantly surpasses that of its neighbors. All the preeminence are increasingly attracting attention from leading global automakers. The year 2025 promises to be pivotal for the industry, with two new automobile plants set to launch, substantially increasing production capacity and reinforcing Kazakhstan’s position as a regional automotive hub.

For the full previous year, Kazakhstan produced 147,400 vehicles, a significant portion of which came from Allur’s automotive plant in the Kostanay Region, followed by Hyundai Trans Kazakhstan and Hyundai Trans Almaty in Almaty.

The automotive industry remains a key driver not only for mechanical engineering but also for Kazakhstan's overall economy. Annual production has consistently exceeded 100,000 vehicles for three consecutive years (113,900 units in 2022, and 148,900 units in 2023). The key market players are Allur and Hyundai Trans Kazakhstan.

Currently, Kazakhstan hosts eight automotive plants producing both passenger and commercial vehicles. The industry leader is Allur in Kostanay, with an annual production capacity of up to 125,000 vehicles, holding a 61% market share by output volume. The plant manufactures vehicles under the Kia, Chevrolet, Skoda, JAC, Jetour, and Hongqi brands. The second-largest plant, Hyundai Trans Kazakhstan in Almaty, specializes in Hyundai models, with an annual capacity of 50,000 vehicles and a market share of 31%.

Other manufacturers include SemAZ, Daewoo Bus Kazakhstan, QazTehna, UralskAgroRemMash, and KAMAZ Engineering. Collectively, these plants produce nearly 170 vehicle models across more than 20 brands, including 8 brands and 39 models of passenger vehicles. However, full-cycle passenger car production is concentrated primarily at Allur and Hyundai Trans Kazakhstan.

In 2025, Kazakhstan’s production capacities will significantly expand with the opening of two new plants. The Kia plant in Kostanay Region will be Kia’s first fully self-funded facility outside South Korea. The project involves an investment of 200 million USD, and its annual production capacity will be 70,000 vehicles. The plant will create 1,500 jobs and mark a significant step toward production localization. The second plant in Almaty will focus on Chinese brands, with a planned annual output of 90,000 vehicles.

Launching these plants will further solidify Kazakhstan’s role as an automotive manufacturing hub in a key geopolitical region, ensuring continued growth, increased localization, technological development, and highly skilled employment opportunities.

Kazakhstan is actively enhancing localization in automotive manufacturing, reducing dependency on imported components. Amid rapid vehicle production growth, automotive parts and accessories production reached record levels: 412.5 million KZT in 2023 and 453 million KZT in 2024, compared to just 76.5 million KZT in 2020 and 139.1 million KZT in 2021.

In recent years, key component production facilities have been established in the country. Notably, in the middle of last year the launch of tire production in Saran was started through a joint venture between Kazakh automotive company Allur and Tatneft Group. The new tire plant will annually produce 3 million tires for passenger vehicles and 500,000 for trucks. Battery production has already surpassed 3 million units annually, and cast-iron foundry capacities increased by 50% compared to 2023. Additionally, production of automotive seats, multimedia, and exhaust systems is expanding.

Allur plays a leading role in localization, actively expanding industrial cooperation and exports, positioning Kazakhstan as one of the most competitive players in global supply chains.

About Stankevicius Group

Stankevicius Group is a global market research and government relations division that reviews global institutions and governments' recent activities in international markets. For more information visit https://stankeviciusgroup.com.

Media Contact

Vytautas Mickys
vytautas@stankeviciusgroup.com

April 16, 2025 9:04 AM
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AUSTIN, TX

Snowfire AI Emerges from Stealth; Announces Cybersecurity Maverick Greg Genung as CEO and Founder to Redefine Decision Intelligence with Adaptive AI Platform

Snowfire AI, an emerging leader in artificial intelligence for executive decision-making, today announced Greg Genung as its founder and CEO following a $2.3 million pre-seed funding round from U.S.-based angel investors.

Genung will guide Snowfire AI’s goal to empower global business leaders with cutting-edge AI technology. With over 20 years of experience in cybersecurity and data analytics, Genung is uniquely positioned to lead Snowfire AI. Genung holds patents in cybersecurity and has driven innovation at Deepwatch, Rackspace, Intel471, Praetorian and as the founding employee of the Retail and Hospitality Information Sharing and Analysis Center (RH-ISAC), Genung united the $30 trillion retail industry with unified intelligence following the Target breach.

“Snowfire AI is here to redefine how executives make data-driven decisions and I’m thrilled to lead the charge. We’re not just building an AI tool, we are creating a brand new category of AI with our Adaptive Decision Intelligence platform, one that constantly analyzes data and processes information flow. Our aim is to help scale intelligent decisioning with our personalized AI platform that enables executives to make precision decisions across the entire business, in real time,” said Genung.

Snowfire AI will launch its platform later this month, designed to provide global business executives, military and government officials, and venture capital/private equity investors with unified decision intelligence AI insights from complex data sets. The Snowfire AI platform helps industries such as finance, healthcare, retail, high-tech, and manufacturing to deploy and enable cost-effective AI and decision making, harnessing growth, margin, and retention data at scale.

Genung’s announcement marks a pivotal moment for the company as it enters the AI space with the bold mission to transform how CEOs, their executive teams, and boardrooms use Adaptive Decision Intelligence to harness data investments and steer strategic direction in the age of AI.

About Snowfire AI

Snowfire AI redefines executive decision-making through its patent-pending Adaptive Decision Intelligence platform. Synthesizing internal intelligence and external information data, it provides real-time, tailored insights at scale to empower data-driven leadership. Snowfire fosters growth, strengthens margins, and enhances retention by harnessing artificial intelligence to optimize operational efficiency, elevate performance, and deliver strategic outcomes. Headquartered in Austin, Texas, Snowfire pioneers the advancement of data-driven leadership in the age of AI.

For more information call +1-844-SNO-FIRE or visit https://www.snowfire.ai. 

Media Contact

Snowfire AI Press
press@snowfire.ai

April 15, 2025 12:13 PM
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GLEN ALLEN, VA

Native Azalea Recognized as a 'Plant of CARE' by The Wright Scoop – Sylvia Hoehns Wright

“Native azalea, Rhododendron periclymenoides (Michx.) Shinners,” says Glen Allen-based The Wright Scoop – Sylvia Hoehns Wright, “is a plant recognized to enable eco sustainable urban suburban landscapes. As a result, I am recognizing it as a ‘plant of CARE’.”

Pink azalea or pinxterbloom azalea, is a 6–15 ft. shrub, (usually closer to 6 ft.) with picturesque, horizontal branching above. Funnel-shaped, pink or white flowers with protruding stamens which occur in large clusters, appearing before or with the leaves. Smooth, medium-green, deciduous foliage turns dull yellow in fall. A deciduous shrub, with terminal clusters of pink, tubular, vase-shaped, slightly fragrant flowers.

This much-branched shrub is especially showy in flower. It is relatively tolerant of dry sites and can be transplanted into wild shrub gardens. The species name, Latin for "naked-flowered," refers to the fact that the flowers often appear before its leaves are fully expanded. Mountain azalea (R. canescens) and woolly azalea (R. prinophyllum) are also found within the range of this species.

Landscape Gardens of CARE

“Eco-sustainable spaces,” says Wright, “are not simply a result of lifestyle choices but reflect how we feel about the environment. While keeping it simple (as in simple living) is the name of the game, there is a more important underlying factor—a commitment to ultimate greening: providing for the present without sacrificing the future. Native azaleas are an excellent plant which through its ability to flourish has naturalized in almost any nationwide landscape and through its vibrant color and sustainability is recognized to inspire people to become people who CARE—have a perspective of conservation, advocacy, recovery and eco-efficiency.”

Plants of CARE, Plant Recognition Program

Whether an experienced landscape professional or novice homeowner, Wright’s advocacy challenges all to not simply identify plants that survive but thrive—and then, to create landscapes from a sustainable point of view, seeking to reduce their carbon footprint as well as feed their family pesticide-free produce. “For,” says Wright, “any style landscape should not simply reflect traditional design concepts but be a result of the right plant, installed in the right place at the right (optimal) planting season—creating a legacy of green, healthier urban and suburban communities. The challenge is to create landscapes from a 'waste not and want not' ecological commitment to become caretakers for the environmental community.”

As a hands-on landscape gardener who has participated in nationwide regional plant testing, Wright gained familiarity with programs such as the "Southern Living Plant Collection," "Proven Winners," "Plants That Work" and many more. Still, while such plant materials have proven to enable landscape gardens, a plant of CARE is spotlighted by Wright for its ability to inspire people to CARE—have a perspective of conservation, advocacy, recovery and eco-efficiency.

To ongoingly encourage all to "dig in the dirt," a "plant of CARE" is recognized quarterly.

About The Wright Scoop – Sylvia Hoehns Wright

A graduate of the Virginia Natural Resource Leadership Institute program and a recipient of the "Turning America from Eco-weak to Eco-chic" award, The Wright Scoop – Sylvia Hoehns Wright urges all to keep America beautiful and become people who CARE—have a perspective of conservation, accountability, recovery and eco-efficiency. To inspire others, she offers one-on-one consulting, speeches and workshops and has published a series of eco-books.

For more information, visit thewrightscoop.com, email sylvia@thewrightscoop.com or follow her activities on social media through Facebook group The Wright Scoop or @WrightScoop on Twitter/X.

Media Contact

Sylvia Hoehns Wright
syhwright@gmail.com

April 15, 2025 12:00 PM
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COLUMBUS, OH

Ohio Educational Service Center Association (OESCA) Partners with MagicSchool AI to Empower Ohio Educators

Today, the Ohio Educational Service Center Association (OESCA) announced a strategic partnership with MagicSchool AI to help empower Ohio educators with access to the most trusted AI education platform. This collaboration will give OESCA member service centers and their districts exclusive access to MagicSchool's innovative AI tools at special pricing for institution-wide purchases if they sign up by June 1. MagicSchool is the most trusted and secure AI platform in education, already used by over 5 million educators across more than 12,000 schools and districts.

Supporting Educators and Students with the No. 1 AI Platform for Schools

At MagicSchool, teachers are considered irreplaceable, which is why its tools are designed with the realities of teaching in mind. Founded and led by Adeel Khan, a former teacher and founding principal of a top-performing public high school in Denver, Adeel created MagicSchool with a mission to bring an AI assistant to every teacher in the world and help tackle the crisis of teacher burnout. The company is also focused on bringing responsible AI to students and educating them on the technology to prepare them for the future.

"When we look at Ohio's education landscape, we see dedicated professionals who deserve the best tools to support their day-to-day work in and out of the classroom," said Adeel Khan, founder and CEO of MagicSchool. "This partnership with OESCA demonstrates our shared commitment to supporting educators with technology that will make a meaningful difference for them and their students now and well into the future. As a former teacher and principal, I can’t wait to see the impact that this partnership will have on Ohio’s educators and students.”

“We are excited to partner with MagicSchool to bring Ohio’s educators and students access to one of the more trusted and secure AI platforms in education,” said Craig Burford, executive director of OESCA. “This collaboration reflects our commitment to equipping schools with innovative tools that support teaching and learning, streamline educators’ workloads and prepare students for the future. By leveraging the collective purchasing power of schools, districts and ESCs, we are able to help provide our member service centers and their districts with cost-effective access to MagicSchool’s powerful AI resources and ensure that Ohio’s education community remains at the forefront of responsible technology integration and student success.”

MagicSchool Platform Benefits for Educators and Students

MagicSchool offers a secure, purpose-built solution that protects student data while streamlining teachers' workloads. The user-friendly platform features over 80 pre-built tools for educators and more than 50 tools for students, eliminating the complications and fears associated with generic AI solutions. Teachers can quickly generate relevant, customized content that aligns with Ohio Academic Standards.

MagicSchool helps schools:

  • Save Time: Lighten educator workload with lesson planning, assessment creation, feedback tools and more.
  • Enhance Teaching: Access a comprehensive suite of AI tools tailored for educators to support the diverse needs of their students.
  • Support Students: Promote responsible AI literacy and provide engaging, educator-led learning experiences through MagicStudent.
  • Customize at the School/District Level: Build and launch tools that align with your district’s goals, curriculum and policies.
  • Make Informed Decisions: Use secure, centralized dashboards to track data and inform strategy across schools.

Special Pricing Available Through June 1

Ohio districts interested in implementing MagicSchool can take advantage of special pricing for institution-wide purchases when they sign up through OESCA by June 1, 2025. For more information on partnership benefits and to apply, district leaders can visit here.

About MagicSchool AI

MagicSchool is the most loved, secure and trusted AI platform for educators and students — with nearly every U.S. school district and 160 countries around the world using the platform. MagicSchool is built for educators, by educators, providing a genuine opportunity to reclaim valuable time for educators, combat burnout and elevate the art of teaching. To learn more, visit www.magicschool.ai.

About Ohio Educational Service Center Association (OESCA)

The Ohio Educational Service Center Association (OESCA) is the 501(c)(6) trade association representing Ohio's 51 Educational Service Centers and seeks to promote excellence in education through the quality services provided by its member organizations. OESCA provides legislative advocacy, coordinates member lobbying efforts, provides professional development opportunities, organizes communication among its member organizations and manages statewide projects. To learn more, visit www.oesca.org.

Media Contact

Kirsten Underwood
press@magicschool.ai

April 15, 2025 11:00 AM
EDT
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SINGAPORE

Reactive Network Announces First Exchange Listing of $REACT on BingX Following TGE

Reactive Network today announced that Wrapped $REACT (Ethereum) will be listed on BingX, marking the first exchange listing of the token following the network’s Token Generation Event (TGE). Trading will commence on Wednesday, April 16, 2025 at 12:00 PM UTC.

The listing is part of a broader strategy to expand access to $REACT and foster global participation in the Reactive Network ecosystem. BingX, which recently became the first global cryptocurrency exchange to receive an official trading license in South Korea, will serve as the initial exchange venue for $REACT.

“We are pleased to partner with BingX for this first exchange listing,” said Rong Kai Wong, CEO at Reactive Network. “BingX’s regulatory milestone in South Korea and its global reach make it a strong partner as we begin the next phase of our token’s availability.”

Reactive Network launched its mainnet on March 5, 2025, introducing a blockchain purpose-built for real-time, event-driven automation. The listing on BingX aligns with the network’s vision of providing secure and compliant access to decentralized infrastructure across key global markets.

South Korea represents one of the most active cryptocurrency communities in Asia. BingX’s regulatory positioning offers increased visibility and trust for users in the region, while also supporting long-term growth and liquidity for $REACT.

Listing Information

  • Token: Wrapped $REACT (ERC-20)
  • Exchange: BingX
  • Launch Date: April 16, 2025
  • Time: 12:00 PM UTC

About Reactive Network

The Reactive Network, pioneered by PARSIQ, ushers in a new wave of blockchain innovation through its Reactive Smart Contracts (RSCs). These advanced contracts can autonomously execute based on specific on-chain events, eliminating the need for off-chain computation and heralding a seamless cross-chain ecosystem vital for Web3’s growth. 

Central to this breakthrough is the Inversion of Control (IoC) framework, which redefines smart contracts and decentralized applications by imbuing them with unparalleled autonomy, efficiency, and interactivity. By marrying RSCs with IoC, Reactive Network is setting the stage for a transformative blockchain era, characterized by enhanced interoperability and the robust, user-friendly foundation Web3 demands.

For more information, visit https://reactive.network.

Media Contact

Reactive Network
marketing@reactive.network

April 15, 2025 10:00 AM
EDT
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AUSTIN, TX

Nulo Launches National Effort to Support Humane World’s 'More Than a Pet' Campaign

Leading pet nutrition brand Nulo has announced the nationwide launch of Paws for a Cause, a new campaign supporting pets in need and encouraging pet adoption across the country. From April 15 to June 30, Nulo will donate one meal to Humane World for Animals for each bag of Nulo dry food purchased at more than 450 participating retailers. A full list of participating locations is available at nulo.com/hw.

Paws for a Cause is part of Nulo’s partnership with Humane World's More Than a Pet campaign to raise awareness for dog and cat adoption and provide nutritious pet meals to communities in need, helping families and their pets stay together, happy and healthy.

“Every pet deserves the opportunity to receive love and proper nourishment,” said Michael Landa, Nulo founder and CEO. “With Paws for a Cause, we’re making it easy for pet parents across the country to make an impact. Every purchase of Nulo dry food during this time helps us provide shelters and families with the premier nutrition pets need to live their fullest and healthiest lives.”

Team USA athletes and Nulo ambassadors Caeleb Dressel, Ryan Crouser, Gabby Thomas and Regan Smith will help promote the campaign regionally through digital and social content and in-store visibility, highlighting the relationships they share with their own pets and the positive impact they’ve seen Nulo make on the energy levels and overall well-being of their four-legged companions.

“My black lab, Koda, is one of my biggest supporters, and I want to repay her for all she’s done for me by giving her the right type of food she needs to live her best life,” Crouser said. “I’m excited to help spread the word about Paws for a Cause because I know how much love and companionship pets provide, and they deserve the world in return.”

Nulo, known for its high-quality, protein-rich pet food, has long been devoted to prioritizing premium nutrition in support of pet health and wellness. This initiative furthers Nulo’s mission to Fuel Incredible — whether in athletes or pets.

To further support adoption efforts, participating Nulo retailers will also offer exclusive adoption bundles or product discounts to new pet parents during the campaign. For more information and a full list of retailers across the U.S. participating in the program, visit nulo.com/hw.

About Nulo

Nulo stands at the forefront of pet nutrition, dedicated to providing foods that fuel a healthy lifestyle for pets and their parents. Recognizing the powerful bond between humans and pets, Nulo's mission is to enhance the lives of dogs and cats through proper nutrition, providing them with the fuel they need to live full, vibrant lives. For more information, visit www.nulo.com.

About Humane World

For over 70 years, Humane World for Animals, formerly Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society International, has worked around the globe to tackle the root causes of animal cruelty and suffering and create permanent change. With millions of supporters and work happening in over 50 countries, we’re focused on creating long-term solutions to the biggest problems facing animals, working to end the cruelest practices, care for animals in crisis and build a stronger animal protection movement. We work across borders to shift human behavior and drive policy change, bring diverse expertise to the most complex issues, and do it all with a compassionate and welcoming approach. Driving for the greatest global impact, we aim to achieve the vision behind our name: a more humane world for animals. To learn more, www.humaneworld.org.

Media Contact

Taylor Strategy
nulo@taylorstrategy.com

April 15, 2025 8:42 AM
EDT
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JERSEY CITY, NJ

Estes Media Eyes Strategic Acquisition to Expand Footprint in Construction and Manufacturing Marketing

Estes Media, the high-growth digital marketing agency known for helping B2B companies scale with sharp branding, targeted SEO, and conversion-driven advertising, is actively seeking to acquire a complementary construction marketing agency as part of its 2025 expansion strategy.

Founded by serial entrepreneur and venture capitalist Joshua Estes, Estes Media has quickly built a reputation as the go-to growth partner for early-stage startups and commercial contractors alike. Now, the firm is looking to add agencies under their umbrella—ideally those with strong capabilities in PR, development, advertising or deep industry specialization in construction or manufacturing.

“We’re not your average agency buyer,” said Estes. “Our team blends startup-hardened marketing talent with VC-level operational discipline. We know how to grow brand, have done it many times over—and we’re looking for partners who want to scale with us.”

The firm is currently evaluating marketing agencies located in the Eastern or Central Time Zones of the U.S. Ideal candidates will have between $1 million and $3.5 million in revenue, strong teams, and a focus on B2B sectors.

Estes Media plans to offer operational integration, expanded service offerings, and access to its proprietary lead-gen infrastructure to accelerate the growth of the acquired company.

Interested in selling your agency or know someone who is? Reach out to Estes Media at info@estesmedia.com.

About Estes Media

Estes Media is a full-service B2B marketing agency serving clients in commercial construction, manufacturing, and venture-backed SaaS. With a team of builders, creatives, and strategists, the agency helps brands go from “scrappy” to “scalable,” offering services including branding, web design, SEO, paid media, and growth strategy. For more information about how we can help elevate your brand, visit https://www.estesmedia.com.

Media Contact

Joshua Estes
info@estesmedia.com

April 14, 2025 2:19 PM
EDT
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CABO SAN LUCAS, Mexico

Heidi Montag Debuts Sizzling “Sriracha” Music Video at Villa Vegas Dave 3 in Cabo

Reality TV star and pop singer Heidi Montag has officially unveiled her highly anticipated single, “Sriracha,” alongside a captivating music video filmed at the opulent Villa Vegas Dave 3, which has rapidly become a go-to villa in Cabo for film and music stars. The video features breathtaking choreography, a dazzling fire dance performance by entrepreneur David “Vegas Dave” Oancea, and a glimpse into the creative evolution of Montag’s musical career—all set against the backdrop of Cabo’s legendary sun-soaked shoreline.

Heidi Montag’s Passion Project

Born from her desire to return to her pop music roots, “Sriracha” represents Heidi Montag’s passion for upbeat, electrifying tracks. Having first captured public attention on the MTV reality show The Hills, Montag has steadily built a following around her fun-loving persona, entrepreneurial ventures, and her willingness to push creative boundaries. With “Sriracha,” she embraces a new era of catchy melodies and vibrant visuals, channeling the intensity of the hot sauce it’s named after.

Heidi admits the track holds special significance. “I wanted to create a song that people could dance to, something bold,” she shared during a break on set. “The energy of ‘Sriracha’ is all about confidence and embracing your inner fire. I took those elements and translated them visually into every aspect of the video.”

Bringing the Fire to the Screen

The music video’s key selling point is its blazing visual motif, which manifests both literally and metaphorically. Highlights include intricate dance formations set around blazing torches, while the cameo performance by Vegas Dave sees him orchestrating a larger-than-life fire dance show. This performance amplifies the track’s fiery themes, creating an intense ambiance reminiscent of a tropical carnival.

Beyond the spectacle, Montag showcases her vocals and stage presence in an environment unlike any she’s featured in before. “We aimed for something that felt raw, magnetic, and undeniably exciting,” she explained. “Filming on a beach, with the waves rolling in and real flames behind us—that’s all part of capturing this unstoppable energy that ‘Sriracha’ brings.”

On-Set Vibe and Creative Direction

Close collaborators played a major role in shaping the “Sriracha” music video. A dedicated production crew helped merge the tropical elegance of Cabo San Lucas with a sleek, modern aesthetic. Director Vanessa Carter, known for her bold visual style and knack for kinetic dance sequences, joined forces with Montag to conceptualize each scene in the video. They spent weeks mapping out everything from color palettes to choreography, ensuring that the final product would be as spicy as its name suggests.

Behind the scenes, a fusion of spontaneity and detailed planning led to some of the most memorable moments. “I love it when a spark of creativity takes the lead,” Montag said. “We had these bullet points in mind—fire dancing, the infinity pool, some iconic beach shots—but there was also this encouragement to experiment. When you invite that kind of free-flowing creativity, it shows up on camera.”

Personal Milestones and Musical Evolution

“Sriracha” comes at an inflection point in Heidi Montag’s journey. Following a period devoted to motherhood and television appearances, the song marks a renewed focus on her solo music career. Montag first dipped into pop music with earlier releases but expressed feeling that she never fully realized her potential. This track allowed her to combine the lessons learned from past projects with her current drive to craft a more assertive, dance-forward sound.

Drawing on influences as varied as Latin beats and mainstream EDM, Montag and her team developed a composition meant to ignite dance floors and streaming playlists alike. With lively percussion and a powerful vocal hook, “Sriracha” has quickly gained traction on social media, amassing thousands of shares and user-generated dance clips within hours of its premiere.

Glimpse at Villa Vegas Dave 3

Though the spotlight was on Heidi Montag, the visuals were undoubtedly enhanced by Villa Vegas Dave 3. Located on a rare swimmable beach in the Palmilla region, this 40,000-square-foot estate is known as Cabo’s ultimate celebrity hotspot. In just one day of shooting, Montag’s crew utilized many of the property’s highlights. This included:

  • Expansive Layout: With 13 bedrooms and a capacity for up to 50 guests, the villa offered plenty of room for dancers, production staff, and lighting rigs.
  • Infinity Pool and Fire Pit: These features provided a dramatic nighttime setting—perfect for capturing “Siracha’s” high-octane vibe under the moonlit sky.
  • Customized Services: Despite the frenetic pace of filming, a dedicated concierge and team of butlers ensured the cast and crew stayed on schedule, facilitating everything from meals to wardrobe changes.

A Charitable Spark

In the spirit of generosity that often accompanies Heidi Montag’s endeavors, a portion of the proceeds from “Sriracha” will benefit wildfire relief in California—an issue close to her heart. Montag and her husband, Spencer Pratt, have been vocal about the devastation caused by recent blazes and the importance of rebuilding local communities. “With every stream, purchase, or share of ‘Sriracha,’ fans can join me in supporting those who are still picking up the pieces after losing so much,” she commented.

Fan Reception and What’s Next

Reaction to the music video has been overwhelmingly positive. Fans flooded social media with praise for Montag’s invigorated sound, praising the explosive visuals and catchy hook. Within hours of release, #SrirachaHeidi trended on multiple platforms, with many predicting the song could be a strong contender for summer party playlists.

As for what comes next, Montag hinted at the potential for live performances and even more original music in the pipeline. “This is just the start. I’m already in the studio working on a follow-up single, and we’re talking about a small tour to really connect with fans on a personal level,” she revealed. In the meantime, “Sriracha” stands as a resounding statement of Montag’s renewed artistry—vivid, daring, and unforgettable.

About Villa Vegas Dave 3

A luxurious 40,000-square-foot estate known as Cabo’s ultimate celebrity hotspot. Villa Vegas Dave 3 offers 13 bedrooms (accommodating up to 50 guests), an expansive infinity pool, a dramatic fire pit, and customized services including dedicated concierge and butler teams—an ideal setting for film and music productions. For more information, visit https://www.cabovillavegasdave.com/villa-vegas-dave-3.

Media Contact

Villa Vegas Dave
reservations@villavegasdave.com

April 14, 2025 2:11 PM
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INDIANAPOLIS, IN

Educational Service Centers of Indiana (ESCI) Partners with MagicSchool AI to Support Schools and Teachers

The Educational Service Centers of Indiana (ESCI) today announced a partnership with MagicSchool AI, naming the company as a preferred AI platform partner. MagicSchool is the most loved, trusted, and secure AI platform in education, already used by over 5 million educators across 12,000+ schools and districts, including over 31,000 educators in Indiana. This collaboration will provide ESCI member service centers and their schools with exclusive access to MagicSchool's award-winning AI tools at a 25% discount for institution-wide purchases, along with other special partnership benefits.

The Leading AI Platform for Schools

At MagicSchool, teachers are considered irreplaceable, which is why its tools are designed with the realities of teaching in mind. Founded and led by Adeel Khan, a former teacher and founding principal of a top-performing public high school in Denver, Adeel created MagicSchool with a mission to bring an AI assistant to every teacher in the world and help tackle the crisis of teacher burnout. The company is also focused on bringing responsible AI to students and educating them on the technology to prepare them for the future.

"Teachers across Indiana are facing unprecedented burnout and leaving the profession at record rates, despite their deep passion for education. This partnership with ESCI reflects our commitment to lightening their load with tools that make a real difference," said Adeel Khan, founder and CEO of MagicSchool. "As a former teacher and school principal, I've seen firsthand how educators struggle with limited resources. While AI won't solve every challenge in education, we're focused on building solutions that matter. By offering our platform at a significant discount to ESCI members, we're ensuring more Indiana schools can both reduce administrative burdens for teachers and prepare students for a future where AI literacy is essential.”

“At ESCI, we’re focused on bringing forward-thinking, high-impact solutions to Indiana schools — especially those that empower our educators and prepare students for the future. Our partnership with MagicSchool is a meaningful step in supporting both goals. By giving educators access to secure, purpose-built AI tools that align with Indiana standards, we’re helping them save time, elevate classroom instruction and focus on what they do best: teaching. We’re proud to partner with a platform that puts educator and student success at the center of innovation,” said Darlene Kennedy, director of technology integration at ESCI. 

Key Benefits of MagicSchool's Platform

MagicSchool offers a secure, purpose-built solution that protects student data while streamlining teachers' workloads. The user-friendly platform features over 80 pre-built tools for educators and more than 50 tools for students, eliminating the complications and fears associated with generic AI solutions. Teachers can quickly generate relevant, customized content that aligns with Indiana Academic Standards.

MagicSchool helps schools:

  • Save Time: Lighten educator workload with lesson planning, assessment creation, feedback tools and more.
  • Enhance Teaching: Access a comprehensive suite of AI tools tailored for educators to support the diverse needs of their students.
  • Support Students: Promote responsible AI literacy and provide engaging, educator-led learning experiences through MagicStudent.
  • Customize at the School/District Level: Build and launch tools that align with your district’s goals, curriculum and policies.
  • Make Informed Decisions: Use secure, centralized dashboards to track data and inform strategy across schools.

“MagicSchool is the best educational tool because it not only helps teachers with easy to use, teacher friendly AI tools — it allows teachers to help students learn AI. We are preparing students for the world of AI, and by using MagicSchool with students, teachers see what they are doing, help them refine their work and truly use AI as a learning and thought partner. Additionally, MagicSchool serves as an insurance policy for schools, providing essential guardrails and data security for both students and teachers,” said Jeremy Hill, e-learning specialist and tech team leader at Richmond Community Schools.

Grant Opportunity Available for Schools to Access MagicSchool

Indiana schools interested in implementing MagicSchool can apply for funding with the 2025 Digital Learning Grant through May 16, 2025. This grant, funded by the David C. Ford Educational Technology fund, is available to Indiana public school corporations and charter schools that completed the 2025 School Tech Plan Survey. Schools can request up to $50,000 to enhance learning experiences and implement effective digital teaching tools.

ESCI and MagicSchool Partnership Details

With this new partnership, institution-wide purchases of MagicSchool Enterprise can receive a 25% discount off of the list price of MagicSchool from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026. For more information on specifics and benefits of the partnership and to apply, schools can visit: www.magicschool.ai/landing-pages/esc-of-indiana

About MagicSchool AI

MagicSchool is the most loved, secure and trusted AI platform for educators and students — with nearly every U.S. school district and 160 countries around the world using the platform. MagicSchool is built for educators, by educators, providing a genuine opportunity to reclaim valuable time for educators, combat burnout and elevate the art of teaching. To learn more, visit www.magicschool.ai.

About Educational Service Centers of Indiana (ESCI)

The Educational Service Centers of Indiana are united in our mission: to create a collaborative environment that supports the implementation of statewide initiatives beneficial to all of Indiana’s educators and students. Together, we serve all 92 counties, reaching over 720,000 students and nearly 50,000 educators — a responsibility we embrace with deep commitment and shared purpose. For more information, visit escindiana.org.

Media Contact

Kirsten Underwood
press@magicschool.ai

April 14, 2025 11:55 AM
EDT
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ES, Spain

Zurab Pololikashvili – Committed to Further Strengthening Tourism as a Catalyst for Prosperity and International Cooperation in His Bid for Re-Election as Head of UN Tourism

Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of UN Tourism, is running for re-election as head of the United Nations’ specialized agency with the aim of continuing to promote tourism globally, in a complex international context marked by uncertainty and mistrust.

Pololikashvili, having achieved the full recovery of the tourism sector after the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, is committed to continuing the organization’s line of action and strengthening the role of tourism as a driving force of prosperity and global cooperation. At a historic moment in which tourism is facing major challenges — 56 active conflicts around the world, the highest number since the Second World War, trade wars and the rise of “tourismphobia” — the Secretary-General builds his candidacy on unity, safety and trust, which are key to the development of tourism.

To address these challenges, Pololikashvili seeks continuity on the path towards an organization that leads the development of the sector not only as an economic tool, but also as a catalyst for peace: "Tourism has the potential to change lives, transform economies and build bridges between cultures. Let's keep working to make this sector a true tool for development and global cooperation.”

Collaboration, Investment and Sustainability for Resilient Tourism

In this line, the current Secretary-General and candidate for re-election presents a program that includes various lines of action with the intention of raising the position of UN Tourism at a global level, while supporting destinations and member states, and promoting collaboration with leading private entities.

The proposals include international technical cooperation and incentives for investment in strategic projects, an approach that the organization has been working on for years to promote public-private collaboration and help in the development of tourist destinations worldwide. In addition to this, work will continue to be carried out in areas such as education, innovation and technology, supported at all times by sustainable policies and the fight against climate change.

At present, UN Tourism does not impose term limits on its Secretary-General. Although the General Assembly proposed an amendment twenty years ago to limit the position to a single reappointment — an idea not originally included in its statutes — this amendment was never enacted, and the organization still does not enforce any restrictions. In Pololikashvili’s case, the General Assembly held a vote in 2023 in which more than 70% of members approved his candidacy for the 2026–2029 term, thereby legitimizing his intention to continue in the role for the coming years.

About UN Tourism

The World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) is the United Nations agency responsible for the promotion of responsible, sustainable and universally accessible tourism. As the leading international organization in the field of tourism, UN Tourism promotes tourism as a driver of economic growth, inclusive development and environmental sustainability and offers leadership and support to the sector in advancing knowledge and tourism policies worldwide. For more information, visit https://www.unwto.org.

Media Contact

Claudia Safont
claudia.safont@tinkle.es

April 14, 2025 9:00 AM
EDT
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KANSAS CITY, MO

Pushly Extends Partnership with GRV Media for Two Additional Years

Pushly, a digital audience engagement solution, today announced an extension of its partnership with GRV Media. GRV Media, one of the largest independent sports publishers in Europe, has renewed the relationship for a further period, as it looks to increase the number of page views it generates directly to its websites. Pushly has provided custom development support, creating breaking news RSS feeds and custom reporting tools. This partnership has helped GRV generate significant revenue growth over the last 12 months, as impressions from notifications have increased by over 100%.

This extension of the partnership between Pushly and GRV Media is significant as it showcases the value of leveraging push notification technology to drive engagement and increase traffic. By providing tailored solutions to address the unique needs of GRV Media, Pushly has demonstrated its commitment to helping clients achieve their business goals.

Brendan Ripp, CEO of Pushly, expressed his excitement about the extended partnership, stating, "We are thrilled to continue our collaboration with GRV Media and support their growth through innovative push notification solutions. This extension is a testament to the success we have achieved together and the value we bring to our clients."

Ed Watkinson, Global Director of Digital Strategy at GRV, said, "Pushly has become an invaluable partner in growing push notification traffic across GRV’s sites. Their custom solutions and flexibility have helped enhance engagement while also improving efficiencies with the team. We're excited to continue to build on this success together."

Looking ahead, Pushly plans to further enhance its technology offerings to provide even more customized solutions for clients like GRV Media. By focusing on delivering real-time, personalized notifications, Pushly aims to help publishers maximize their audience engagement and drive revenue growth.

About Pushly

Pushly is a push notification platform that provides turnkey tools to reach audiences across app, mobile and desktop. Pushly empowers retailers and publishers facing headwinds like search deprecation, social traffic declines and subscription fatigue. The Pushly opt-in model means push notifications are a welcome call-to-action. Pushly differentiates with hands-on support and service, delivering best practices, implementation guides and stellar customer success for its clients. For more information, visit https://www.pushly.com.

About GRV Media

Founded in 2002, GRV Media is a UK based publisher with a select network of over 70 sites focused mainly on sport and entertainment. With over 20 years of experience in producing great online content, we know what it takes to grow an effectively monetised web presence. We are an ethical, best practice company, driven to deliver our clients' success. Our network includes brands such as Bloody Elbow, The Boot Room, United In Focus, The Chelsea Chronicle, The Tennis Gazette, Rousing the Kop, Rangers News and 67 Hail Hail. To learn more, visit https://grv.media.

Media Contact

Pushly Marketing
marketing@pushly.com

April 14, 2025 6:31 AM
EDT
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İSTANBUL, Türkiye

Asli Tarcan Clinic Introduces the Robotic DHI Method for Afro Hair Transplantation

Asli Tarcan Clinic, a leading provider of hair transplantation, dental procedures, and cosmetic surgery in Turkey, announced today that it has started to use cutting-edge Robotic DHI technology for Afro hair transplant procedures. This minimally invasive new treatment reduces the duration of extensive surgeries requiring up to 6,000 grafts by 50% — from 6 hours for traditional methods to just 3 hours.

Asli Tarcan is a leader in African American hair transplantation, which requires great skill and precision during the extraction and implantation of grafts to preserve the natural curl pattern and match the direction of hair growth with the surrounding areas. Hair loss in this population can be caused by genetic factors and traction alopecia, which is especially prevalent in women and brought on by wearing tight braids and weaves. The clinic has a long track record of success with this specialized surgery and many positive reviews from patients with different Afro hair types.

This procedure will be available today using robotic technology that limits human error and reduces recovery times.

Robotic DHI is one of the most efficient hair transplant methods. It involves a team of five people working with robotic systems. Specialized Choi pens house the grafts harvested from the donor area on the nape of the neck, simultaneously creating incisions and implanting them into the recipient area.  

With this advanced technology, each extracted graft receives a dose of UV light, PRP, and special mesotherapy vitamins. It goes through the machine to ensure optimal sterilization levels and prime the grafts with nutrients that support healing and promote hair growth.

Unlike the follicular unit extraction method, FUE, or even the classic DHI, where a single nurse meticulously implants each hair follicle one by one, the automated system allows two nurses to work simultaneously, one on each side of the head.

The increased speed of the procedure doesn’t just mean a more comfortable experience for the patient. Because the medical staff shares the workload, there is no drop in focus or the need for breaks or splitting up the procedure into two sessions, making it much easier for the staff to stay focused and finish the surgery in a single day.

Some other benefits that Robotic DHI Afro hair transplant procedures offer include better survivability and viability of follicles extracted from the donor area, integration with other medical equipment such as a heart rate and pulse oximeter monitor, the option not to shave the recipient area, particularly popular with female patients, and access to a monitor where the patient can monitor the procedure or engage in various forms of entertainment.

“What is the advantage to the patient? Our patient can monitor the operation and the number of grafts transplanted from the fixed screen,” said Tarcan. “If 5,000 grafts have been transplanted, 5,000 grafts can be viewed on the screen. The patient can see the grafts on the screen and monitor the operation process daily. If we have a bored patient, they can switch to Netflix or YouTube and watch any movie or video they want.”

About Asli Tarcan Clinic

Asli Tarcan Clinic is a leading provider of hair transplantation, dental procedures, and cosmetic surgery in Turkey with a longstanding history of serving European and U.S. patients. Our Istanbul-based health tourism company is also a member of the Turkish Ministry of Health Accreditation (AK-0086) and the Association of Turkish Travel Agencies (TURSAB). For more information, visit https://aslitarcanglobal.com.

Media Contact

Burak Turan
burak.turan@timcompany.de

April 13, 2025 9:51 AM
EDT
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OSAKA, Japan

CCPIT: The China Pavilion Opened at the Expo 2025 Osaka, Japan

On April 13, the Expo 2025 Osaka officially opened. The China Pavilion, organized and prepared by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), held its opening ceremony. Representatives from the political and business communities of China and Japan, together with members of the construction committee of the Pavilion, gathered to witness the its formal launch.

On the opening day, a dance drama "Crested Ibis" commemorating the China-Japan friendship and a traditional lion dance performance were presented at the Pavilion. These performances carried China’s sincere hope for peace and friendship in cultural exchanges.

The China Pavilion covers an area of approximately 3,509 square meters, one of the largest self-built pavilions by a foreign country at the Expo 2025 Osaka. The architectural design of the pavilion is inspired by China’s ancient cultural carrier of bamboo slips, ingeniously blending cultural symbols rich in meaning, such as bamboo, Chinese characters, and scrolls.

The exhibition at the China Pavilion revolves around the theme “Building a Community of Life for Man and Nature – Future Society of Green Development.” It is structured around three main segments: “Harmony between Humanity and Nature,” “Green Mountains and Clear Waters,” and “Endless Life.” The segments serve as the narrative backbone, showcasing the traditional ecological wisdom nurtured by 5,000 years of Chinese civilization, while also highlighting the concepts and achievements of green development in the new era.

The exhibition looks forward to a bright future where China works together with other countries in the world to build a harmonious community between humanity and nature. At the same time, the China Pavilion will organize a series of rich, diverse, and exciting activities featuring over 30 local regions and institutions from China. These activities aim to promote friendly exchanges between China and other countries.

At the opening ceremony, distinguished guests remarked that the China Pavilion fully showcases both the profound heritage of China's 5,000-year civilization and the remarkable achievements of its high-quality development in the new era. They expressed particular anticipation for the pavilion's national treasure-level cultural relics, lunar soil samples and other exhibits, while voicing hopes that Expo 2025 Osaka would strengthen mutual learning and exchange among all participants to achieve mutual benefit and win-win cooperation.

To learn more about the China Pavilion, see the video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_enozYbK2Uc?si=XdurgnWhAWg4AeXa

Media Contact

Tong Shaoqi
xinwenchu@ccpit.org

April 11, 2025 11:41 AM
EDT
•
NEW YORK, NY

Orion Worldwide Innovations Launches Pan-Armenian Digital Trade Center

Orion Worldwide Innovations is launching Pan-Armenian three-dimensional virtual domain on YoCerebrum, with the first center scheduled to open in Dubai on June 23, 2025. Digital Julfa, a premier metaverse platform designed to reignite Armenia’s historic role in global trade and commerce is both a history revealing and shopping/trade source. It connects Armenian businesses in various industries and family businesses worldwide, offering unique opportunities for brand recognition, build wealth and advocacy.

Commenting on the launch of the platform, the initiating partner, CEO and founder of Orion Worldwide Innovation and Covenant Venture Capital Venture Partner Emma Arakelyan mentioned, “Digital Julfa is a unique opportunity connecting businesses and individuals—those who are looking to showcase their products, and those who are looking to gain access to a network of Armenian businesses, investors and entrepreneurs. By becoming a part of the network, you are joining to revive the powerful history of the Armenian trade leader role for 300+ years, accelerate the path of your business, family office and personal prosperity”.

“New Julfans were primarily known for their role as silk merchants. They monopolized the silk trade for much of the early modern period, but they also dabbled in other things: gems, diamonds and so forth, but also textiles, and they had an extensive commercial network that went from London, Amsterdam, Cadiz, all the way to Manila,” stated Houri Berberian, Professor of History & Meghrouni Family Presidential Chair in Armenian Studies, University of California Irvine, in one of her 2018 AGBU web talks.

With technology partners YoCerebrum and Evolver, Digital Julfa is set to launch its first center in Dubai in June 2025, with subsequent centers in Italy, Philippines, Netherlands, Singapore, India and France. 

By consolidation of the Armenian think tank, the network aims to strengthen business presence globally and preservation of socio-economic stability. By creation of an international partner network to defend the interests of Armenia and Armenians globally. Digital Julfa is a network that creates new points of growth in the development of the national economy.

About Orion Worldwide Innovations

Orion Worldwide Innovations, is a startup growth and ecosystem acceleration hub and offers a full-service package to make companies investable to enter the US market, enhance their customer acquisition strategies, stay competitive and protect their innovation. Orion is a U.S.-based company formed in 2017, with offices in New York City, U.S., and Yerevan, Armenia locations and partnering with companies and investor networks worldwide.

Orion’s business objectives encompass supporting innovations growth in Eastern Europe, Asia and Americas regions by establishing and/or expanding business solutions, fundraising, growth strategy and IP management. We simplify the complexity and complications of growing businesses in the U.S. market, acquisition and fundraising processes for both entrepreneurs and investors. Orion’s business activities include assistance in fundraising, designing go-to-market strategy, obtaining IP protection and acquiring businesses and IP intellectual assets to extract commercial value.

Orion teams up with foreign and domestic investors, venture capitals, startups, and inventors. For more information, visit https://orionwi.com.

About YoCerebrum

YoCerebrum is a 3D virtual metaverse platform featuring customizable spaces for events, conferences, and virtual concerts, with tools like whiteboards and screen sharing. Cerebrum Virtual City is an initiative that offers virtual replicas of Yerevan (next Dubai in pipeline), where entrepreneurs can purchase spaces, customise avatars, showcase products, and utilise innovative marketing tools.

About Digital Julfa Network

Digital Julfa Network was announced as a program at the Orion Summit in Yerevan at Matenadaran, the Institute of Ancient Manuscripts, on June 22, 2022. This program aims to establish a network of the Armenian Nation, fostering an influential infrastructure to protect national interests, promote business, social, and humanitarian impact on the global stage. The program is supported by Armenian businesses, think tanks in multiple disciplines, professional organizations and Armenian government officials. To learn more, visit https://www.digitaljulfa.com.

Media Contact

Emma Sargsyan 
emma@saegeconsultants.com

April 10, 2025 7:43 PM
EDT
•
MILAN, Italy

The Rise of Chinese Home Furnishing: KUKA HOME Shines at Milan Design Week

KUKA HOME, a world-renowned Chinese home furnishing brand, made a striking impression at this year's Milan Design Week. Showcasing a unique design philosophy that harmoniously blends Eastern wisdom with modern aesthetics and functionality, KUKA HOME captivated audiences at one of the world’s most prestigious design events—highlighting the creativity and growing influence of China’s home furnishing industry.

"This isn’t just an installation presentation or a product exhibition — it's cultural bridge program, " said David Rampello, a renowned Italian cultural planner and expert in creative industry. "Through its participation in Milan Design Week, KUKA HOME is helping bring local creativity to the global stage, facilitating a cultural and aesthetic exchange between East and West. It marks a shift from ‘Made in China’ to ‘Designed by China.’”

According to the Global Home Furnishing Industry Development Report, China’s home furnishing market is rapidly ascending the global value chain, with its total market size projected to surpass $700 billion USD by 2028. In this transformation, design-led companies like KUKA HOME are redefining the landscape of home furnishing worldwide.

At Milan Design Week, KUKA HOME showcased its design-driven strategy through a series of impactful events. Collaborating with acclaimed Chinese designer Chen Yaoguang, the brand unveiled an art installation titled "Gift," a poetic expression of harmony between humanity and nature — core tenets of Chinese design philosophy. This initiative exemplified KUKA HOME’s commitment to supporting Chinese designers on the global stage.

Another highlight was the “Design Without Borders – China & Europe Design Talk,” which brought together prominent designers from around the world to explore the fusion of Eastern and Western design trends. The event culminated in the launch of KUKA DESIGN, a bold new concept that embraces global collaboration to create better living experiences through design.

KUKA HOME also introduced standout high-end products: Moon Bay and Beloved One etc. Inspired by the phases of the moon, Moon Bay features elegant, wave-like backrest lines that evoke tranquility and spiritual comfort. Beloved One, crafted from ultra-thick premium cowhide with refined edge detailing, embodies understated luxury and exceptional craftsmanship.

With its compelling presence in Milan, KUKA HOME is proving that Chinese brands are not only manufacturing powerhouses but also leaders in global design innovation. By reinterpreting Oriental aesthetics with contemporary flair and seamlessly integrating international resources, KUKA HOME is forging a bold new chapter for Chinese home furnishing on the world stage. Looking ahead, KUKA Home remains committed to enriching lives through design and continuing to explore new possibilities for a better, more beautiful future.

About KUKA HOME

KUKA HOME, a brand with global recognition in the home furnishing sector, was established in 1982. Since its inception, the company has adhered closely to its founding principles of craftsmanship and a distinct vision centered on the concept of "home." KUKA HOME conducts extensive research, design, development, production, sales, and service of home furnishings tailored for various living spaces including living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms, as well as offering options for whole-home customization. Collaborating closely with business partners, KUKA HOME delivers comprehensive home solutions and superior services across the globe, ensuring coverage throughout the entire lifecycle of its products. The brand is celebrated for its commitment to quality, innovative design, comfort, and functional versatility.

KUKA HOME is more than a provider of home furnishings; it is a creator of enhanced lifestyles. The company is driven by the consumer's aspiration for a better life, which serves as an inexhaustible motivating force. At KUKA HOME, there is a strong commitment to advocating for improved living and building a sustainable and environmentally responsible future together with its customers.

In October 2016, KUKA HOME was listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange with ticker 603816.

For more information, visit https://kukahome.com.

Media Contact

Jennifer Tao
taojing@kukahome.com

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