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The Travel Defender announced today that it is an investigations agency specializing in researching and resolving consumer disputes with airlines, hotels, and other travel service providers. The company is dedicated to helping the traveling public receive the satisfaction they deserve.

As travel becomes increasingly accessible and popular, consumer disputes with travel providers also become more common. The Travel Defender recognizes the importance of addressing these disputes in a timely and effective manner, ensuring that travelers can get back to their journeys and feel confident in their travel experiences.

The impact of The Travel Defender's services is significant, providing travelers with a reliable resource for addressing disputes and achieving satisfactory resolutions. With The Travel Defender, travelers can trust that their concerns are being addressed and their voices heard.

According to Chad Neiswonger, Chief Investigator at The Travel Defender, "We understand that travel can be stressful, and we're here to alleviate that stress by providing effective solutions for consumer disputes. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that travelers receive the satisfaction they deserve."

Looking to the future, The Travel Defender aims to expand its services to reach even more travelers and provide an even greater level of support. By continuing to prioritize customer satisfaction and effective dispute resolution, the company is poised for success.

For more information, please visit The Travel Defender at https://www.yourtraveldefender.com.

Averill House Vineyard, known for crafting unique and traditional wines with a grape-to-glass philosophy, proudly announces the release of their Little Secret, a limited-edition 2020 vintage Italian Nebbiolo Red wine. Formerly exclusive to European royalty, this wine pairs perfectly with BBQ, Asian, Indian, and American cuisine, making it a must-have for chefs and wine enthusiasts alike. From the Winemakers Private Stash, Averill House Vineyard unveils the highly anticipated Little Secret—a well-aged Italian Nebbiolo celebrated for its full body, floral aromas, and mouth-drying tannins. Once reserved for nobility, this cherished wine is now accessible to all.

The launch of Little Secret marks a significant milestone for Averill House Vineyard, highlighting their dedication to producing distinctive, high-quality wines. Guided by a grape-to-glass philosophy, the winery employs organic practices and renewable strategies, ensuring sustainable production methods. Averill House Vineyard takes great pride in making accessible a wine that was once exclusively enjoyed by European nobles.

"We are thrilled to share our Little Secret, a limited-edition Italian Nebbiolo Red wine, with wine enthusiasts everywhere," said Bob Waite, Vigneron of Averill House Vineyard. "We invite everyone to relish the full body and floral aromas of this treasured wine that was once exclusive to European nobility."

Looking ahead, Averill House Vineyard is committed to continuing their pursuit of crafting unique and traditional wines while upholding sustainable practices. The winery eagerly anticipates the release of more limited-edition wines and plans to expand their philanthropic endeavors, supporting causes close to their hearts.

For inquiries or to experience the remarkable flavors of Averill House Vineyard's Little Secret, please visit www.averillhousevineyard.com or contact their friendly team at info@averillhousevineyard.com.

Mooresville resident Karen L. Dortschy has published her first children’s book “The Little Lion Ran Away”. It is available on Amazon as a printed paperback and Kindle book.

“I am excited to have written a book that helps children ages 2-8 enjoy learning new words, rhyming and the alphabet as they follow the adorable little lion's efforts to prove he is a big lion. The book features full-color illustrations, including parent/teacher notes and questions/answers for additional learning opportunities related to the alphabet and rhyming,” says Dortschy.

A stage 4 pancreatic cancer survivor, Dortschy is well known for her painted portraits of animals and pets through her business Haute Dauge Portraits and has been involved with the Mooresville South Iredell Chamber of Commerce, Mooresville Arts and local animal-related non-profits for many years.  

“I decided to write a children’s book as I’ve been focused on creative writing and journaling since my cancer diagnosis,” says Dortschy. “This book’s key message about ‘having your own voice’ really resonated with me as I navigate through cancer treatments.”

Dortschy is available for local book signings, book readings, interviews and appearances throughout the Charlotte, NC metro area.

The printed and Kindle books are available on Amazon or through this link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1666402028?psc=1&smid=A1Y53T3O3Q25L8&ref_=chk_typ_imgToDp

For more information, please contact Karen L. Dortschy at 980-253-2853 or KarenLDortschy@gmail.com.

Pure Joy Coffee, a prominent local business dedicated to enhancing well-being and mindfulness through the love of coffee, is thrilled to announce advancements in its mission to empower entrepreneurs across New York City. With an unwavering commitment to creating value and nurturing a sense of community purpose, Pure Joy Coffee has recently undertaken a business management course and actively participated in volunteer initiatives to uplift New York City residents.

Last week, Pure Joy Coffee Co-Founders Delia Visbal and Chris Diamantakis were invited as guest speakers at BMCC's Small Business Management class, where the company's representatives shared invaluable insights and experiences with aspiring entrepreneurs. The aim was to inspire, educate, and underscore the significance of community-oriented entrepreneurship. With a compelling origin story, the Pure Joy Coffee founders demonstrated their commitment to excellence in every aspect of its business. The session also covered industry trends and the company's visionary perspective on the future of specialty coffee.

In addition to the course, Pure Joy Coffee recently took an active role in the 2023 RBC Brooklyn Half Marathon, the largest half marathon in the country. As volunteers, the Pure Joy Coffee team played a vital role in supporting and encouraging 26,000 athletes on their journey to cross the finish line in Coney Island. By lending their time and expertise to such community events, Pure Joy Coffee continues to make a meaningful impact and connect with its community.

"We firmly believe in the power of community engagement and the value of giving back," said Chris Diamantakis, co-founder at Pure Joy Coffee. "By collaborating with educational institutions, volunteering at prominent events, and actively adding value to the social fabric of this incredible city, we are proud to be a part of the NYC local business community."

As they continue to forge meaningful connections and inspire others, Pure Joy Coffee remains dedicated to promoting a positive and empowered entrepreneurial ecosystem in NYC.

About Pure Joy Coffee

Pure Joy Coffee is a local business in New York City dedicated to promoting wellbeing and mindfulness. With a focus on community engagement, they aim to inspire, educate, and bring joy through their commitment to excellence in the specialty coffee industry.

It’s an exciting time when you get to see an opera becoming a part of the standard repertoire. In a brand new production and the professional South Carolina premiere, Holy City Arts & Lyric Opera—HALO—presents As One in a dramatic conclusion to their 2022/23 season. The immersive experience utilizes elements including lobby exhibitions, video projections, and surround sound for spoken word to welcome an audience of opera aficionados and newcomers alike. 

“A piece of HALO’s vision has always been ‘to reclaim Charleston as the birthplace of opera in North America,’” says Leah Edwards, HALO’s Founding General Director. “In order to do that, we must honor its past while leading the charge towards its future. Having the ability to set an 1853 opera in 1986 (La traviata, 2021) one season and a 2014 opera in the 1990’s (As One, 2023) the next exemplifies that the art form is relevant, the subject matter is personal, and the stories are timeless.”

Starring Heather Jones and Lucas Bouk, As One is a universal tale of transformation; a coming of age story that chronicles the life of Hannah as she experiences joy, struggle, isolation, and finally freedom. Stage direction by David Lefkowich transcends a minimalist set, costume design by Erik Teague unquestionably focuses the time period, and the film design of co-creator Kimberly Reed evoke deep nostalgia. Alexandra Enyart leads an on-stage string quartet, further unifying the intimacy of the performance. 

HALO will host composer Laura Kaminsky and Pulitzer Prize and Grammy Award-winning librettist Mark Campbell in a Conversation with the Creators on June 20 to discuss the importance of writing compelling stories for the modern audience. “I’m thrilled that HALO is presenting this groundbreaking opera in Charleston—the city where opera first emerged in America, and one that has always maintained a rich and diverse cultural life," Campbell said. Kaminsky and Campbell will attend the premiere on June 22. 

Commissioned by the American Opera Project, As One opened on September 4, 2014, at the Brooklyn Academy of Music's Fisher Space. Since its premiere, it has become the most produced new opera in North America, according to Opera America magazine. For more information about the show and the creators, please visit www.asoneopera.com.

As One is a one act opera and runs approximately 90 minutes. It will be performed in English with English subtitles. Performances are June 22-25 at the Queen Street Playhouse (20 Queen Street, Charleston). Doors open at 6pm, and the show begins at 7pm. Tickets are $65-$85. Drinks and merchandise will be available for purchase before and after the show. Talkbacks with the cast will follow every performance. 

For additional information and to purchase tickets, visit www.holycityarts.org. To stay up to date with HALO happenings and to find out how you can be involved, sign up to receive the newsletter. For additional information about HALO, including information about the newly announced 2023/24 season, visit HALO’s website.

About HALO

Founded in 2019, HALO is a 501(c)(3) non-profit arts organization and is the trademark holder for 'Opera. For y’all.’ and ‘Social Distance-SING!’ HALO can be found @HolyCityArts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. For interviews or additional press coverage, please contact HALO at (843) 388-3243 or info@holycityarts.org.

EZ Newswire, a platform that makes it easy and affordable for businesses of all sizes to create and publish their news, today unveiled its latest feature, "Publish Your Own." In addition to using EZ Newswire’s powerful AI-enabled content writer, customers will now be able to supply their own written releases and still leverage EZ Newswire’s publisher network, providing more options to create and publish content.

EZ Newswire's technology, built upon decades of PR expertise, allows users with no prior PR or writing experience to generate professional content with minimal input and at no cost. With this new feature, users can now also directly publish their own pre-written releases through the platform.

"Our mission at EZ Newswire is to empower businesses from Main Street to Wall Street to easily connect with their target audience," said Caitlin Kelly and Neel Shah, founders of EZ Newswire. "With the addition of the 'Publish Your Own' feature, users can effortlessly bring their own pre-written releases into our platform and benefit from our distribution network to the AP and other publications across the U.S."

"Publish Your Own" is the first new feature announced by EZ Newswire since its launch last week and is one of many additions and improvements planned to be rolled out over the coming months, consistent with EZ Newswire's commitment to providing efficient and cost-effective news solutions for growing businesses.

For more information about EZ Newswire, please visit www.eznewswire.com.

About EZ Newswire

EZ Newswire is a platform that makes it easy and affordable for businesses of all sizes to create and publish their news. Our technology produces professional announcements in minutes with no writing or public relations experience required, while our publisher network guarantees placement to ensure the news reaches the right audience. Find out why thousands of organizations, big and small, trust us to power their headlines at www.eznewswire.com.

CLI debuts tagline, “Awaken Dormant Revenue,” as well as new logo, website, newsletter, and blog with educational content.

Triumvirate Content Consultants, a leading provider of content licensing and distribution services, announced today that it is rebranding as Creative Licensing International (CLI) and has launched the new website, creativelicensinginternational.com. CLI is debuting its new logo with the tagline, “awaken dormant revenue.” 

The new branding reflects the company's breadth and depth of experience in content licensing, its expansion into new client categories, and its ongoing commitment to providing customized and innovative solutions that help publishers, media companies, associations and societies, event companies, and other content creators protect their copyrights, reach new audiences, increase revenue and profit, and expand their reach globally.

The partners at Creative Licensing International continue to be  at the forefront of the content licensing industry, as they have been for decades. Paul Gerbino, company founder and president, was a senior-level executive directing multi-platform operations and sales for print and digital media, business databases, and other online products before founding Triumvirate in 2015.

"We are thrilled to announce the name change to Creative Licensing International and the launch of our new website," Gerbino said. "The changes reflect our commitment to working with our clients globally to unlock and monetize the hidden value of their content. This is a natural evolution of our company as we continue to grow and expand our services to meet the ever-changing needs of the industry."

The company's services include content distribution, copyright and licensing oversight, contract management and negotiations, royalty tracking and analysis, identifying new revenue opportunities and appropriate licensees, business development, and revenue optimization. 

The new website offers a streamlined, inviting, and user-friendly experience for clients, making it easier to access information about the company's solutions and content on industry trends that will be covered in a new blog. 

"We are committed to providing our clients with the best possible solutions for licensing and monetizing their content, regardless of economic conditions," Gerbino went on to say. "Our new name, logo, tagline, and website have been designed to visually and verbally capture how our company has evolved and expanded in recent years. We are also investing in providing a monthly must-read industry newsletter in addition to content that will inform site visitors about how and why to license content and the latest industry trends.”

For more information on Creative Licensing International and its services, please visit the company's new website at creativelicensinginternational.com.

About Creative Licensing International

Creative Licensing International is a leading provider of content licensing and distribution services, offering a range of solutions for publishers, media companies, associations and societies, event companies, and other content creators. The team, led by content licensing veteran Paul Gerbino, provides clients with experts who have decades of experience in content licensing—at less than the cost of one full-time employee.

On May 25, Cincinnati Parks Foundation (CPF) will partner with Kimberly-Clark and the Arbor Day Foundation to plant 30 trees in the Roselawn Park in the Roselawn neighborhood of Cincinnati.

Cincinnati Parks Foundation is on a mission to help enhance and improve Cincinnati Parks in all regions of the city, ensuring that these urban parks remain green, beautiful, and accessible to everyone. CPF is working with the Arbor Day Foundation, the world’s largest membership nonprofit dedicated to planting trees.

“Through the Green Cincinnati Plan, we are working with Cincinnati Parks, the city of Cincinnati, corporate partners, and volunteers to ensure we reach a 40% tree canopy in the city. We are dedicated to growing that canopy with a focus on historically under-resourced neighborhoods through initiatives like these that will help plant and maintain new trees and improve lives in those communities,” said Jennifer Hafner-Spieser, executive director of Cincinnati Parks Foundation. “We’re thrilled to be able to grow our impact in the Roselawn neighborhood, which has low tree canopy coverage and high heat island exposure. This day will make a difference for generations.”

“One of the things the Arbor Day Foundation does best is to help local planting partners take meaningful action in their community to plant trees,” said Dan Lambe, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “We plant trees to improve the lives of people around us. We’re happy to help Cincinnati Parks Foundation foster a sense of community pride by planting trees.”

Trees offer vast benefits for the community at large. Thriving urban forests bolster human health, from encouraging physical activity to reducing respiratory illnesses stemming from air pollution. Urban trees filter the air by removing pollution, improving a city’s overall air quality. They also reduce runoff of sediment, pollutants, and organic matter into streams, improving our water quality. Trees have also been shown to reduce crime, lower stress levels, and develop community pride.

About Cincinnati Parks Foundation

The Cincinnati Parks Foundation, the philanthropic partner to Cincinnati Parks, is dedicated to preserving and enhancing Cincinnati’s parks and greenspaces for all to enjoy. The Foundation works to raise funds, advocate for the parks, and support innovative programs that connect people to nature and promote a healthy and active lifestyle. To learn more about the projects and programs, please visit cincinnatiparksfoundation.org.

About the Arbor Day Foundation

Founded in 1972, the Arbor Day Foundation is the world’s largest membership nonprofit organization dedicated to planting trees. With a focus in communities and forests of greatest need, the Foundation — alongside its more than 1 million members, supporters and valued partners — has helped to plant nearly 500 million trees in more than 50 countries. Guided by its mission to inspire people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees, the Arbor Day Foundation is committed to unlocking the power of trees to help solve critical issues facing people and the planet. Learn more about the impact of the Arbor Day Foundation at arborday.org.

Cincinnati Parks Foundation announced today that outdoor roller skating is returning to the Riverfront Rink at Sawyer Point on May 27th and will continue through October with a series of free outdoor roller skating events featuring music and more. This year's roller skating season coincides with a fundraising campaign to refurbish the rink with new flooring and shelter, plus enhanced amenities in the adjacent skating pavilion.

Opening night is on Saturday, May 27 from 7–10 pm. This sunset skate session is a "Green Night Light," and attendees are invited to wear green in celebration of the partnership between Skate Downtown Cincy, Cincinnati Parks, and Cincinnati Parks Foundation, which is supporting this year's roller-skating initiative. Festivities include tunes by DJ Dior and roller skating demonstrations from the Reckless Sk8rs, one of Cincinnati's famed roller skating teams. All are invited to bring their own skates to join in this free session. A limited selection of rentals will be available.

Skate Downtown Cincy will continue to host regular sessions most weekends with live DJs, themed music, skating demonstrations by skating teams including Reckless Sk8rs, Cincy SociaLights, and HoodSk8rs, and appearances by celebrity skaters like David “Smitty” Smith and Dylan Morton.

The lineup also includes a Pride Stride on June 10 from 7–10 pm featuring skating drag queens, a session hosted by Q102 DJ Natalie Jones on July 8 from 7–10 pm, and the All-Ohio Rhythm Skate Jam on October 14 from 7–10 pm featuring DJ Sneaks & Jigg. In addition to these events, the outdoor rink is open daily from dawn to dusk and is always free to skaters.

SAWYER POINT ROLLER SKATING SCHEDULE

• May 27, 7–10 pm: Green Light Night with Reckless Sk8rs and DJ Dior
• June 10, 7–10 pm: Pride Stride with Crissy Brollin and DJ Hershe B
• June 17, 9 am–1 pm: WakeNSkate with DJs Sneaks & Jigg
• July 8, 7–10 pm: Skate Live with DJ Natalie Jones from Q102
• July 15, 9 am–1 pm: No EFFXRT Neon Pajama Jam featuring DJs Sneaks & Jigg
• July 22, 7–10 pm: 90s Skate featuring Cincy SociaLights and DJs Sneaks & Jigg
• August 5, 9 am–1 pm: Sunset Skate with DJ Monet
• August 12. 9 am–1 pm: WakeNSkate with DJs Sneaks and Jigg, and Caveman Crepes
• August 19, 7–10 pm: HoodSk8ers Skate on the Beach with DJ Sneaks & Jigg
• September 9: NVUS Sk8rs Space Disco night with DJ Sneaks & Jigg
• September 23, 7–10 pm: For the Battle: Queen City Skate Clash with Smitty on Skates and Caveman Crepes
• September 24, 9 am–1 pm: WakeNSkate with DJ HersheB with Caveman Crepes
• October 14, 7–10 pm: All-Ohio Rhythm Skate Jam with DJ Sneaks & Jigg
• October 15, 9 am–1 pm: WakeNSkate and Skater Showcase
• October 28, 7–10 pm: Halloween Skate with Cincinnati Roller Girls
• October 29, 9 am–1 pm: Halloween WakeNSkate with DJ Jelly

For more information about outdoor roller skating at Sawyer Point and the accompanying fundraising campaign, please visit cincinnatiparksfoundation.org. For more details about roller skating in Cincinnati, please visit skatedowntowncincy.com.

About Skate Downtown Cincy

Skate Downtown Cincy is a grassroots initiative dedicated to raising awareness and support for downtown Cincinnati's public skating facilities and social wellness programs that contribute to the health, community, culture, and vibrancy of the urban core. For more information, visit skatedowntowncincy.com.

About Cincinnati Parks Foundation

The Cincinnati Parks Foundation, the philanthropic partner to Cincinnati Parks, is dedicated to preserving and enhancing Cincinnati's parks and greenspaces for all to enjoy. The Foundation works to raise funds, advocate for the parks, and support innovative programs that connect people to nature and promote a healthy and active lifestyle. To learn more about the projects and programs, please visit cincinnatiparksfoundation.org.

The Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority (NNEPRA), the organization responsible for the oversight of the Amtrak Downeaster, today announced its partnership with Blaze Partners, a Yarmouth-based advertising/digital marketing agency. The collaboration aims to enhance the marketing and promotion of the Downeaster, elevate its brand presence and increase overall ridership.

The NNEPRA team expressed their confidence in selecting Blaze Partners, recognizing the agency's expertise and shared values. "Blaze Partners demonstrates an understanding of our brand and a vision for its growth," said Taylor Belanger, Marketing Director at NNEPRA. "Their commitment to sustainability and community engagement aligns perfectly with our mission to provide safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly transportation options. We believe that this partnership will bring tremendous value to our passengers and help us achieve our goals for growth."

Blaze Partners will collaborate closely with NNEPRA to develop comprehensive marketing campaigns spanning traditional and digital platforms. Blaze brings significant expertise in effective storytelling and engaging content creation that will play a vital role in showcasing the Downeaster travel experience and fostering connections between the diverse communities along the route. "We're excited to embark on this journey together,” said Jim Hauptman, Blaze’s managing partner. “In a relatively short time, the Downeaster has already become an iconic Maine brand — one we hope to strengthen and further develop through our marketing efforts.”

About the Amtrak Downeaster

The Amtrak Downeaster makes five round-trips daily between Brunswick, ME and Boston, MA serving twelve communities in Maine, New Hampshire and Massachusetts. The service is operated by Amtrak under contract to the Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority (NNEPRA). For more information, visit www.nnepra.com.

About Blaze Partners

Established in 2015, Blaze Partners is a full-service advertising/digital marketing agency serving a diverse group of clients in the US and abroad. As a certified B Corp, Blaze is committed to using its expertise to drive positive social and environmental change. The agency’s strategic approach, combined with their creative and media capabilities, enables brands to foster deeper, more meaningful connections with their audiences. For more information, visit www.blaze-partners.com.

Media Contacts

Taylor Belanger

Marketing Director, NNEPRA/Downeaster

207-780-1000

Kayla Collins

Account Strategist, Blaze Partners

(207) 200-8002 x705 

Intactic, the employee experience and communications advisory and consulting firm, has launched TechVerified, a game-changing solution for companies seeking to modernize their digital workplace technology and employee experiences. By calling Intactic first, companies can save valuable time and resources by building the business case, strategy, and roadmap for implementing new communications and HR technology. Intactic's strategic partnerships with leading intranet, email newsletter, HR technology, enterprise search, collaboration, culture assessment, and employee engagement technology platforms, including Microsoft, FirstUp, Staffbase, Simpplr, Cerkl, Anthill, PoliteMail, Workvivo, LMS 365, Glean, Haystack, and over two dozen other leading HR and Worktech vendors. This now makes Intactic and TechVerified the go-to source for modernizing the digital workplace.

"TechVerified is the culmination of our years of experience in internal and change communications strategy," said Preston Lewis, CEO of Intactic and Founder of TechVerified. "We understand the challenges that companies face when trying to modernize their digital workplace technology and employee experiences, and we're excited to offer a solution that saves them valuable time and resources."

Intactic is an expert in providing internal and change communications strategy, design, and activation services to global companies. Their launch of TechVerified further expands their portfolio of services and solidifies their position as a leader in modernizing digital workplace technology and employee experiences.

In the future, Intactic plans to continue to innovate and expand their services to meet the evolving needs of their clients and the ever-changing landscape of the digital workplace.

For more information on Intactic and TechVerified, please visit https://www.intactic.com.

Pictor Gallery is thrilled to announce its upcoming exhibition, featuring two distinct showcases: "We Are All the Children of the Ancestors" by Jide Ojo in Gallery I, and "Memories" by Denise Adler, Cindy Bernier, Ralph Julius, and Robert L. Pepper in Gallery II. The exhibition will run from May 23rd to June 17th, 2023, at Pictor Gallery, located at 547 West 27th Street, Suite 204, New York, NY 10001.

The opening reception will take place on May 25th, from 6 to 8 pm, offering art enthusiasts and collectors a unique opportunity to engage with the artists and experience the thought-provoking works firsthand. Additionally, a special Salon event will be held on June 8th, from 6 to 8 pm, allowing visitors to delve deeper into the themes and inspiration behind the exhibition.

Gallery I: "We Are All the Children of the Ancestors" by Jide Ojo

Jide Ojo, a visionary artist known for his profound wit, presents a collection of astonishingly beautiful art in Gallery I. Ojo's artwork is composed of bits and pieces of the urban landscape, reimagining debris as a historical narrative of mankind. His masterpieces reflect the belief that we are all connected as "Children of the Ancestors."

Gallery II: "Memories" by Denise Adler, Cindy Bernier, Ralph Julius, and Robert L. Pepper

Gallery II showcases the evocative works of four talented artists, each exploring the theme of memories in their unique style. Artists include:

• Denise Adler: Adler’s work captures the fragile nature of life and the emotional impact of the past on the present. Through her portraits and dreamscapes, she presents an unsettled view of the world, infused with subtle amusement and innate feminism.
• Cindy Bernier: Bernier’s vibrant paintings reflect her memories of Woodstock, embodying a mix of love, energy, and communal movement. In her artwork titled "Body Memory," she explores the physical energy of movement and its continuous influence on her thoughts.
• Ralph Julius: Julius’ paintings transport viewers to familiar locations upstate in Newburgh and near his home in Brooklyn. By transforming color palettes, he enhances the viewer's experience and offers a fresh perspective on these locales.
• Robert L. Pepper: Pepper’s artwork features intertwining and interacting forms, inspired by tribal designs, ancient texts, and occult symbolism. Notably, his portraits serve as physiological maps of silent film stars from the early 20th century.

The exhibition at Pictor Gallery promises to captivate visitors with its diverse and thought-provoking collection of art. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with the artists, gain insights into their creative processes, and explore the power of memories and ancestral connections.

For more information about the exhibition and the featured artists, please visit the Pictor Gallery website at www.pictorgallery.com or contact the gallery at (212) 837-2870.

About Pictor Gallery

Pictor Gallery is a fine art gallery located in the Landmark Arts Building in New York City’s Chelsea Gallery District. Pictor’s mission is to encourage and promote creative efforts. We do so through art shows and events focused on inspiring and engaging the art-seeking public in meaningful conversation.

With 150 million streams on Spotify, the Cosmic Pop Stars fifth studio album is a fantastic voyage of musical influence and covers featuring artists including Olivia Newton-John, Mother Mother, David Bowie, Beach Bunny, Kate Bush, Cavetown and more

The Orion Experience (T.O.E.), the cosmic pop stars whose surprise hit “The Cult of Dionysus” went viral on social media in 2020, confirmed today the release of their first new record in two years. Their fifth album Cosmicovers was today released via Sweet! Records hot on the heels of their 150 million streams on Spotify, 53.4 million views on Youtube and 8.36 million streams on Apple Music. 

Cosmicovers is a fantastic voyage through the musical influences and styles that have shaped The Orion Experience as a band since its inception. The new album is a loving tribute to the artists that inspire them; an eclectic mix of both contemporary and legacy artists—some you may recognize instantly and others perhaps less so. But one thing is for certain, one listen to Cosmicovers and you will be bowled over by T.O.E.’s new takes on some old (and new) favorites. Track listing below: 

1. Hopelessly Devoted to You (Olivia Newton-John)
2. Wrecking Ball (Mother Mother)
3. Different Drum (Linda Ronstadt)
4. Oxygen (Beach Bunny)
5. Moving (Kate Bush)
6. Lemon Boy (Cavetown)
7. Ride a White Swan (T. Rex)
8. Jenny (Studio Killers)
9. Starman (David Bowie)

T.O.E. approached these songs as both fans as well as musicians with the goal of creating an entirely new approach to classic hits like David Bowie’s “Starman,” or “Different Drum,” Linda Ronstadt’s as well as newer songs like Cavetown’s “Lemon Boy” or Studio Killers’ “Jenny.” Every song on Cosmicovers is a brand-new listening experience. Olivia Newton-John’s “Hopelessly Devoted to You” is re-imagined with a Motown groove. Mother Mother’s stomp-rocker “Wrecking Ball” is reconstructed to sound like a Saturday Night at the Roller Rink and Beach Bunny’s “Oxygen” has become a symphonic daydream. 

Lead singers Orion Simprini and Linda XO take center stage with their signature brand of irresistible vocal harmony, creating complex melodies that are surprisingly easy to sing along with. Guitarist Reef Roxx layers technicolor riffs that sound like a laser rainbow, while an assorted group of T.O.E.’s favorite musical mischief makers lend a hand to create this galactic groove.

In the 3+ years since fans discovered The Orion Experience’s signature sound of catchy hooks and melodies with a positive message and upbeat live show, the band has exploded into another space and time to create a rabid fan base well into the millions. The overall numbers are staggering:

• 150 million streams on Spotify across more than 8 million listeners
• 160 million views on TikTok
• 53+ million views on YouTube with 277 million impressions and 76K subscribers
• 8.36 million streams on Apple Music
• 13K+ followers on Instagram
• 10+ million views of “The Cult of Dionysus” on YouTube

For more information, please contact Joshua Mills with It’s Alive! Media at 332-464-6314, josh@itsalivemedia.com or visit www.itsalivemedia.com, TOE YouTube, Instagram and TikTok.

EZ Newswire, a platform that makes it easy and affordable for businesses of all sizes to create and publish their news, today announced its exit from stealth mode and the public launch of its upgraded product, which includes an updated technology stack powered by AI and an integration with the Associated Press.

“We built EZ Newswire to serve every business and budget, which includes small businesses that have news to announce but don't have the resources or expertise to do it themselves as well as larger companies that simply want more for less,” said founders Caitlin Kelly and Neel Shah. “Our platform simplifies the process and ensures that businesses can reach their target audience without breaking the bank.”

In the coming months, EZ Newswire plans to expand its network of publishers and add new features to make it even easier for every business to connect with its customers, community, and other stakeholders.

EZ Newswire’s launch was featured in Business Insider. Lesley Klein, Senior Vice President of Strategy and Brand Marketing at the travel company Priceline, spoke to Insider about her plans to leverage the product, saying she has “more faith in its output because it was built by someone with years of practical and operational comms experience.”

For more information about EZ Newswire, visit www.eznewswire.com.

About EZ Newswire

EZ Newswire is a platform that makes it easy and affordable for businesses of all sizes to create and publish their news. Our technology produces professional announcements in minutes with no writing or public relations experience required, while our publisher network guarantees placement to ensure the news reaches the right audience. Find out why thousands of organizations, big and small, trust us to power their headlines at www.eznewswire.com.

Texas Residential Lending LLC ("TRL"), a leading alternative mortgage lender, announced today that it has reached its goal of purchasing $25mm of mortgage loans by mid-2023. To support its growth plans, TRL has expanded its lines of credit with financing partners and aims to double in size by the end of the year. The firm is seeking capital to fund its growth and is currently paying 10.6% annual interest to investors on a quarterly basis.

Texas Residential Lending ("TRL") provides residential mortgage loans to underserved borrowers in several states across the US. Founded in 2019, the firm makes possible the dream of homeownership to individuals who are otherwise unable to secure mortgage financing. The achievement of this milestone highlights the importance of alternative lending institutions like Texas Residential Lending LLC in providing financial support to credit-worthy borrowers who are often overlooked.

According to Cono Casella, Partner at Texas Residential Lending LLC, "We are thrilled to have reached our goal ahead of schedule, which is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team. Our mission is to provide accessible mortgage loans to those who are unable to secure financing through traditional channels. We are committed to growing our business and making homeownership a reality for even more individuals and families."

Looking forward, Texas Residential Lending LLC aims to continue expanding its loan offerings and geographic footprint, while maintaining its commitment to providing an outstanding experience to its borrowers. The firm is dedicated to providing solutions that meet the needs of those it serves and to helping them achieve their homeownership dreams.

For more information about Texas Residential Lending LLC, please contact cono@texresi.com.

Start Small Think Big, a New York-based nonprofit dedicated to advancing equity and inclusion in entrepreneurship across the U.S. by connecting small businesses with the resources and community they need to thrive, today announced a partnership with EZ Newswire, the technology platform that enables small and medium-sized businesses to create and publish their news in minutes.

EZ Newswire and Start Small Think Big have been working together since October 2022, when they began collaborating on programming a series of thought leadership discussions around public relations fundamentals and how entrepreneurs can leverage technology to position their brands to the public and scale.

Start Small Think Big focuses on partnering with BIPOC entrepreneurs, women, LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs, immigrants, veterans, entrepreneurs with disabilities, low-income entrepreneurs, and formerly incarcerated entrepreneurs. The organization offers programming from several key subject areas, including marketing, communications, operations, and finance. It also provides resources for anyone interested in supporting small businesses, especially those serving underrepresented communities. Its #AllforSmall program offers a robust database of small businesses to support across the U.S.

“#AllforSmall provides the needed support to communities to close the opportunity gap in underserved communities across the country,” said Marley Spooner, the senior director of marketing at Start Small Think Big.

“As members of the small business community ourselves, as well as a company that strives to level the playing field for other small businesses, we are proud to continue supporting Start Small Think Big’s mission in an even greater capacity,” said Caitlin Kelly, founder of EZ Newswire. “Every company working with Start Small Think Big will have access to a special discount on EZ Newswire’s services.” 

“After successfully collaborating with EZ Newswire on several projects for the past few months, we’re excited to see how much more we can achieve together through this long-term partnership,” said Start Small Think Big founder and executive director Jennifer DaSilva.

About Start Small Think Big

Start Small Think Big helps small business owners from marginalized communities with limited access to the resources needed to grow to create thriving businesses. We partner with small business owners and their communities, building connections and always judging our success by theirs. Our small business owners, partners, and volunteers are united in their determination to make a difference—one far greater than they could alone. Visit startsmallthinkbig.org to learn more.

About EZ Newswire

EZ Newswire is a platform that makes it easy and affordable for businesses of all sizes to create and publish their news. Our technology produces professional announcements in minutes with no writing or public relations experience required, while our publisher network guarantees placement to ensure the news reaches the right audience. Find out why thousands of organizations, big and small, trust us to power their headlines at www.eznewswire.com.

big, the leading marketing acceleration partner for emerging and breakthrough brands, today announced two product launches by client and footwear brand Gales. The launches follow Gales’s successful participation last September in big’s inaugural Sightline Bootcamp, a three-day immersive program that brought together six cross-industry brands with learning modules, expert lectures, cohort networking dinners, and consultations.

Gales’s two footwear launches this month include Pro Line, a new product line that expands their customer base into hospitality and all standing professions, and their capsule release in partnership with Nurse Blake, a nurse and comedian with over 2.5 million followers on social media. In addition to managing media strategy and activation across TikTok, Meta, as well as search engine and affiliate marketing, big also advises Gales on partnerships and other business opportunities.

The coursework and sessions for the annual Sightline Bootcamp draw from big's tested strategic frameworks and have been honed to ensure that media and marketing efforts are accountable to business impact and aligned with overarching company goals. Participants engage in five intensive class modules, each anchored by a proprietary case study developed by big. In addition to the core modules, participants have the opportunity to learn directly from industry experts by attending learning seminars on topics ranging from affiliate marketing and social to consumer intelligence and e-commerce.

Gales, an honoree in Fast Company’s 2022 Innovation by Design Awards, has since become a full-service big client and built upon Sightline learnings and applications by partnering with big to strategize and execute on the brand’s 2023 expansion plans, which include the new product launches.

In 2023, big is expanding Sightline Experiences to include new formats ranging from community events and half-day educational sessions to high-touch immersions like the multi-day bootcamp. In making Sightline Experiences a destination for “inspiration, education, and innovation,” big has also explored partnerships with other organizations who express authentic alignment with the mission to support next-generation founders and marketing executives.

About big

Founded in 2019, big is a marketing acceleration partner for a new wave of transformational brands. Integrating the unrivaled capabilities and clout of Horizon Media, its parent company, big empowers lean marketing organizations to scale ambitious ideas in the pursuit of strategic and enduring business growth. big supports high potential brands poised for transformation, and partners directly with founders, CMOs, and entrepreneurial marketing leaders to drive exceptional outcomes. For more information, visit www.horizon-big.com.

About Gales

Founded in 2020, Gales is a California-based footwear company committed to making the best shoes for standing. The company was founded by Rob Gregg, a footwear designer with decades of experience. For more information, visit weargales.com.

Dallas, TX – Buddy Upward, Co., a company dedicated to improving social connections, today announced the upcoming open beta launch of The BU, a groundbreaking AI-powered social event and activity app, on June 1st.

The BU aims to improve social connections through user-generated events showcased in short-form video format, reminiscent of the popular TikTok platform. The app allows people to connect, collaborate and monetize their interests and passions all through the power of AI. Buddy Upward, Co. is excited to offer a platform that encourages users to showcase their creativity and engage with like-minded individuals.

"The BU is a game-changer for social media," said Faune Salone, Founder and CEO of Buddy Upward, Co. "Our app allows users to connect with others who share their interests, creating meaningful relationships and experiences. We believe The BU will revolutionize the way people socialize and interact with one another."

With The BU, users can create events, sell tickets, and monetize their content including gigs, all while building their own social network. The app allows freelancers to have the opportunity to create and share engaging user-generated events, effectively monetizing their efforts. Simultaneously, they can connect with enthusiastic individuals eager to volunteer their assistance. This collaborative approach fosters a symbiotic relationship, ultimately giving rise to a flourishing, self-perpetuating cycle of mutual benefit.

In the future, Buddy Upward, Co. plans to expand The BU's capabilities, incorporating new features and growing its user base. The company is committed to providing a platform that empowers individuals to create and connect.

For more information about Buddy Upward, Co. and The BU, please visit https://thebuddyup.io.

Sign up for Beta: https://mailchi.mp/thebuddyup/beta

Mooresville, NC – Ranard Brown, Head Instructor and Founder of Gracie Lake Norman Jiu-Jitsu & Self Offense, is pleased to announce that their competition team is celebrating several wins that took place during the Charlotte Spring Championship on April 29 at the Cabarrus Events Center. The Newbreed Jiu-Jitsu Federation, now in its tenth year, hosted the annual event.

The achievements being celebrated include all gold medals, including three advanced championship belts, and placing second overall for the youth division (BC Kickboxing & BJJ of Waxhaw earned first place, and Black Force MMA of Summerville, SC placed third).

Top-rated Gracie Lake Norman Jiu-Jitsu & Self-Offense operates one of the most successful youth martial arts programs and competition teams in the southeast. The school serves children as young as four years of age through adults. Classes incorporate diverse disciplines, ranging from Judo and Karate to Jiu-Jitsu. Students train under elite black belts committed to helping them achieve their fitness goals while learning functional self-defense, in a supportive community. With more than 4,700 square feet of mat space, parents are able to train in a separate gym while their children train in another.

About Ranard Brown

A former Black Belt Judo Olympian and third generation and 2nd degree Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt under Rick Gracie and Luiz Palhares, Ranard is a two-time IBJJF (International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation) Black Belt Open Master Champion, and coach/trainer to high performing athletes including UFC and Pro MMA fighters, Jiu-Jitsu champions, business professionals, teens and kids. He has been training since 2001, and opened the Gracie Lake Norman Jiu-Jitsu & Self-Offense School in 2009 at 148 Lugnut Lane in Mooresville, NC, to inspire people at all skill levels to become better versions of themselves, mentally, physically, and emotionally, with a focus on mindfulness and learned techniques to reduce stress, anxiety, and improve health and wellness.

To sign up for a complimentary introductory class, or to view class offerings and other news, please visit www.GracieLakeNorman.com.

Justin Boston and Stephen Pierce, Owners & Brokers with Sunset Properties Group – eXp Realty, are delighted to announce the partnering with million-dollar commercial producer, Josh Greenwald, Broker and Commercial Team Leader of Sunset Commercial Group.

“We are delighted to welcome Josh, who will lead our commercial division. With his proven track record and extensive industry knowledge, we are confident that he will bring tremendous value to our team and extend our success into the Commercial Real Estate arena,” says Justin and Stephen.

In 2022, Sunset Properties Group closed 93 transactions with over $58 million in volume.  They’re on track to close more than $70 million in 2023.  Individually, Josh has closed more than $20 million in 24 months and is on track to continue his massive success in 2023.

Josh notes that “With a passion for Commercial Real Estate and a commitment to excellence, I am excited to lead this dynamic team in delivering exceptional results. One of our many goals is to create a seamless integration between the residential and commercial sectors, offering a comprehensive suite of services that meet the diverse needs of our clients. After a brief discussion with Stephen and Justin, it was clear that Sunset is where I belong. Their core values align with mine and I couldn’t be more excited to embark on this journey with them.”

“I am truly driven by my passion for the development and leadership of individuals to bring out the best of their abilities. I am committed to fostering growth, empowering teams, and creating opportunities that only enhance our clients’ ROI, but also contribute to the overall development and prosperity of the communities and agents we serve. Together with Sunset Properties Group, we will redefine excellence in the commercial arena.” says Josh.

About Sunset Properties Group

A Charlotte, NC-based real estate team, founded in 2019 by Stephen Pierce and Justin Boston, proudly servicing the Carolinas with a locally-driven, globally-minded approach, whose mission is to represent their clients at the highest possible level in every transaction and inspire a positive, lasting impact by cultivating a spirit of collaboration, innovation, and integrity. For more information, visit www.sunsetcommercialgroup.com.