Newsroom

Officials from the State of California, USDA Forest Service, National Park Service, Tule River Indian Tribe of California, Save the Redwoods League, and other members of the Giant Sequoia Lands Coalition (GSLC) today announced significant progress in their work to protect the world’s largest tree species from severe wildfires. In its 2023 Progress Report for Saving the Sequoias, GSLC confirms that coalition partners have more than doubled the acres across the giant sequoia range where treatments are underway.

In its second year of large-scale collaboration, the coalition has exceeded its goals with ecosystem wide achievements:

• Treated nearly 9,900 acres in 28 giant sequoia groves—more than twice the acreage treated in 2022. This brings the total giant sequoia grove acres treated since the extreme 2020-21 wildfires to 14,143 out of 26,000;
• Planted more than 294,000 native tree seedlings in severely burned areas, bringing the total to more than 542,000 in two years;
• Initiated and hosted research studies by academic, government, and nonprofit entities;
• Revived cultural practices and expanded co-stewardship agreements with tribes and nonprofits

The full 2023 progress report is available here.

“The Giant Sequoia Lands Coalition made significant progress in 2023 to increase wildfire resilience in our forests and communities,” said coalition Co-Chair Clay Jordan, who is also superintendent of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. “We are realizing the founding goal of the coalition: accelerating the pace and scale of giant sequoia restoration by close coordination and collaboration. Forest treatment is not a one-time event, but a long-term commitment to actively stewarding and restoring these complex natural systems. Everyone benefits from the efficiencies and efficacy of the coalition’s combined efforts—the forest most of all.” 

GSLC’s work in 2023 was managed by 941 people at a cost of $32.9 million. GSLC conducted initial restoration treatments on 9,886 of 26,000 acres in 28 of approximately 80 groves, which represents more than twice the amount of giant sequoia grove acres treated than the previous year. This restoration work increases the wildfire resilience of the groves by reducing the amount of hazardous and combustible plant materials (fuels) through manual and mechanical fuels reduction, prescribed fires and cultural burning practices.

GSLC also worked to improve forest health through reforestation and planted more than 290,000 locally sourced native trees, including 119,000 giant sequoias. Combined with the previous year, the coalition has now planted more than 542,000 trees in and around the sequoia groves. These reforestation projects focus on areas that experienced uncharacteristically high wildfire intensity where seed trees have died, burned seeds were not able to develop, and minimal regeneration has occurred naturally.

“Our work to ensure a wildfire-resilient future for giant sequoias lives at the scientific intersection of forest ecology, wildfire and climate studies,” said Dr. Joanna Nelson, Ph.D., director of science and conservation planning for Save the Redwoods League and co-lead of the GSLC science committee. “We are simultaneously applying the latest evidence-based techniques and advancing the field’s understanding through research. As we coordinate research and adaptive management across the coalition, we boost our ability to steward giant sequoias.This is a long-term challenge with long-term solutions, and we are starting the long-term with timely action, now.”

“While we benefited from a relatively quiet fire season in 2023, what happens this year is impossible to predict, so we must prepare for the worst,” continued Nelson. “We urge elected officials and policymakers to continue to provide funding and personnel, enact policy changes and help us reduce fuels now so we can continue to address the problem at scale.” 

Giant sequoias are the largest trees in the world, and severe wildfires have killed up to 20% of the mature trees since 2015.

The two federal agencies that own and manage the majority of giant sequoia lands—USDA Forest Service and National Park Service—implemented emergency actions in 2023 to accelerate the pace and scale of work.

The members of the Giant Sequoia Lands Coalition include:

• National Park Service, represented by Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks and Yosemite National Park
• USDA Forest Service, represented by the Sequoia National Forest, Giant Sequoia National Monument, Sierra National Forest, and Tahoe National Forest
• Tule River Indian Tribe of California, stewards of all or parts of five sequoia groves
• Bureau of Land Management, stewards of Case Mountain Extensive Recreation Management Area
• California State Parks, stewards of Calaveras Big Trees State Park
• California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), stewards of Mountain Home Demonstration State Forest
• University of California, Berkeley, stewards of Whitaker’s Forest
• Tulare County, stewards of Balch Park

About Giant Sequoia Lands Coalition

The Giant Sequoia Lands Coalition (GSLC) is a landscape-scale, multi-partner collaboration dedicated to the conservation and stewardship of giant sequoia grove ecosystems. Our coalition is composed of all federal, tribal, state and local agencies and organizations that manage giant sequoia groves in public, tribal or private nonprofit ownership. Our affiliate partners include select federal and state conservation agencies, nongovernmental organization conservation groups, and academic research partners with a shared commitment to protect and steward giant sequoias and their ecosystems from emerging threats associated with climate change and the extended absence of natural, low-severity wildfire processes on the landscape. Learn more at giantsequoias.org.

Media Contact

Robin Carr

+1 415-766-0927

redwoods@landispr.com

Media Contact

Robin Carr
redwoods@landispr.com

Empower Delivery, the software company that enables delivery-centric restaurants to profitably and sustainably serve off-premise demand, announces the appointment of Stu Levy to its board of directors. Levy is an active investor and advisor in the restaurant space, working with private equity firms on acquisitions in the industry. Levy previously served as Chief Financial Officer at Domino's as well as Executive Vice President, Global Supply Chain Services. Prior to his corporate career, Levy was a Partner with Bain & Company. Bringing a wealth of experience in strategy, operations, and finance within the restaurant industry, Levy's appointment further solidifies Empower Delivery's commitment to revolutionizing restaurants and their approach to off-premise.

Levy offers decades of strategic leadership and operational expertise to Empower Delivery. Throughout his career, Levy has consistently demonstrated his ability to drive operational excellence and deliver impactful results in challenging and disruptive environments.

"I’m honored to join the distinguished board at Empower Delivery. Scott Dorsey, Chris Baggott, David Kerr and Meredith Sandland are thought leaders in software innovation and the restaurant industry. Empower Delivery’s product provides an end-to-end, digitally-native approach that enables all restaurants to take control of their destiny, both on-premise and off. The current delivery landscape is broken, and I am excited to work with a company that is re-writing the playbook for the industry,” says Levy. 

"We currently have a disconnect where restaurants are essentially forced to choose between maximizing profitability and meeting customer needs. Empower Delivery provides a solution that works for all stakeholders—restaurants, consumers and drivers alike. And it’s as accessible for a one-unit, independent restaurant as it is for a national brand."

"We are thrilled to welcome Stu Levy to our team. His belief in our mission and approach is validating. Levy’s extensive experience with restaurants and delivery gives him a great vantage point from which to judge our software. His strategic leadership will also be invaluable as we continue to innovate and optimize our solution to meet the evolving needs of the restaurant industry," added Meredith Sandland, Empower Delivery's CEO.

Empower Delivery offers a comprehensive software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform that enables restaurants to manage the entire delivery process seamlessly. From consumer ordering to back of house execution and delivery management, Empower Delivery allows restaurants to simplify end to end fulfillment and increase the profitability of delivery.

With Levy's appointment, Empower Delivery is poised to continue its mission of providing innovative solutions that address the complexities and challenges faced by the restaurant industry in the delivery space.

About Stu Levy

Stu Levy is a seasoned executive with extensive experience in finance, supply chain management, and operations within the restaurant industry. As the former Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President, Global Supply Chain Services at Domino's, he played a pivotal role in enhancing service levels, driving operational efficiencies, and helping the company navigate the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic on the business. Prior to Domino's, Levy held executive roles at Republic Services, Inc., and spent over a decade at Bain & Company. Levy now provides advisory services to operators and investors in the restaurant sector. With a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering and materials science and an MBA from Duke University, Levy's dedication to excellence and strategic leadership make him a valuable asset in driving operational success and navigating challenges within the restaurant industry.

About Empower Delivery 

Empower Delivery helps off-premise restaurant operators simplify the end-to-end fulfillment process and increase the profitability of delivery. Our software offers easy ordering to consumers, orchestrates the back of the house execution and manages a dedicated fleet of on-demand drivers. To learn more visit www.empower.delivery.

Media Contact

Sara Schiffer

+1 773-420-7920

sara@proof-pr.com

Media Contact

Sara Schiffer
team@proof-pr.com

Copper Property CTL Pass Through Trust (“the Trust”) announced today that it will host a live conference call on Monday, March 11, 2024 at 12:00 pm Eastern Time. Members of the Trust’s management team will discuss its recent financial and operating results as reflected in the Trust’s monthly report for the period ended February 29, 2024, and Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2023, both of which are expected to be filed prior to the call. The conference call will include a question and answer (Q&A) session.

Conference Call Details

• Date: Monday, March 11, 2024
• Time: 11:00 am CDT | 12:00 pm EDT
• Dial-in: U.S. & Canada Toll Free: (877) 841-2983 or International (215) 268-9893
• Webcast: www.ctltrust.net via the Investor Relations Section or click here to access
• Replay (available for 30 days): U.S. & Canada Toll Free: (877) 660-6853 / International: (201) 612-7415
• Conference ID #: 13745042

Telephone replays will be made available approximately 3 hours after the conference end time. Participants will be required to state their name and company upon accessing the replay.

Additional information, including the Trust’s Monthly and Quarterly Reports, as well as other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) can be accessed via the Trust’s website at www.ctltrust.net.

About Copper Property CTL Pass Through Trust

Copper Property CTL Pass Through Trust (the “Trust”) was established to acquire 160 retail properties and 6 warehouse distribution centers (the “Properties”) from J.C. Penney as part of its Chapter 11 plan of reorganization. The Trust’s operations consist solely of owning, leasing and selling the Properties. The Trust’s objective is to sell the Properties to third-party purchasers as promptly as practicable. The Trustee of the trust is GLAS Trust Company LLC. The Trust is externally managed by an affiliate of Hilco Real Estate LLC. The Trust is intended to be treated, for tax purposes, as a liquidating trust within the meaning of United States Treasury Regulation Section 301.7701-4(d). For more information, please visit https://www.ctltrust.net.

Forward Looking Statement

This news release contains certain “forward-looking statements”. All statements other than statements of historical fact are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may be identified by the use of forward looking terminology such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “might,” “our vision,” “plan,” “potential,” “preliminary,” “predict,” “should,” “will,” or “would” or the negative thereof or other variations thereof or comparable terminology and include, but are not limited to, the Trust’s expectations or beliefs concerning future events and stock price performance. The Trust has based these forward-looking statements on its current expectations, assumptions, estimates and projections. While the Trust believes these expectations, assumptions, estimates and projections are reasonable, such forward-looking statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond its control. These factors, including those discussed in the Trust’s Registration Statement on Form 10 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), may cause its actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. For a further list and description of such risks and uncertainties, please refer to the Trust’s filings with the SEC that are available at www.sec.gov. The Trust cautions you that the list of important factors included in the Trust’s SEC filings may not contain all of the material factors that are important to you. In addition, in light of these risks and uncertainties, the matters referred to in the forward-looking statements contained in this news release may not in fact occur. The Trust undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as otherwise required by law.

Media Contact

Jessica Cummins, Investor Relations

+1 847-313-4755

jcummins@hilcoglobal.com

Media Contact

Jessica Cummins
jcummins@hilcoglobal.com

Benchmark is pleased to announce the transaction between GloveIt, LLC and Ruscan Chem Inc. The transaction represents a strategic, vertical expansion for the Ruscan Chem team.

Headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, GloveIt was established in 2002 by Managing Member and CEO, Karen Gleason. The company is a designer, e-commerce retailer, wholesaler, and international fashion-forward women’s sports accessories distributor. They focus on women’s golf, tennis, and pickleball products and maintain relationships with big box stores, including PGA Tour superstore, Golf Galaxy, and Worldwide Golf.

“The entire Benchmark International team was an absolute pleasure to work with. Throughout the process, they were always available to walk me through each step, and I felt extremely confident in their ability to complete the sale. Emilia was outstanding to work with! I would highly recommend this professional, competent, and thorough group to work with to sell any business.” —Karen Gleason, Managing Member and CEO of GloveIt

based in Ontario, Canada, Ruscan Chem is a CPG distributor, utilizing e-commerce retail to distribute its current product base to over 10 countries worldwide. The acquisition of GloveIt is a valuable addition to their existing portfolio, consisting of products falling into the categories of health, wellness, sports equipment, accessories, and gear.

Benchmark International brought several buyers to the table for this opportunity. Multiple offers were received for the seller’s review, ultimately resulting in an offer that the seller could not refuse and one that she was excited to move forward with, not only for the offer itself but for the growth potential it offers to the company.

“Working with Karen and her team to complete this transaction was such a joy. We wish her the best in the future and are excited to see GloveIt and Ruscan Chem continue to grow together.” —Emilia Muniz, Senior Transaction Associate

Americas: Sam Smoot at +1 (813) 898 2350 / Smoot@BenchmarkIntl.com

Europe: Michael Lawrie at +44 (0) 161 359 4400 / Lawrie@BenchmarkIntl.com

Africa: Anthony McCardle at +27 21 300 2055 / McCardle@BenchmarkIntl.com

About Benchmark International

Benchmark International is a global M&A firm that provides business owners with creative, value-maximizing solutions for growing and exiting their businesses. Benchmark International has handled over $11 billion in transaction value across various industries from offices across the world. With decades of M&A experience, Benchmark International’s transaction teams have assisted business owners with achieving their objectives and ensuring the continued growth of their businesses. The firm has also been named the Investment Banking Firm of the Year by The M&A Advisor and the Global M&A Network as well as the #1 Sell-side Exclusive Privately-held M&A Advisor in the World by Pitchbook and Refinitiv's Global League Tables.

Media Contact

Brittney Zoeller

+1 813-898-2350

zoeller@benchmarkintl.com

Media Contact

Brittney Zoeller
zoeller@benchmarkintl.com

Narratize, a pioneering generative AI co-author for innovative enterprises, is proud to announce that they have launched the world’s first generative AI white paper use case.

The latest addition to Narratize’s use case library leverages the company’s patent-pending Human-Led AI methodology to empower users to create an accurate, compelling white paper in a handful of hours. This use case redefines what’s possible with prompt architecture in the generative AI space, as the field continues to transform how we write and communicate at work.

White Papers: Difficult, Critical, and Expensive Content Assets

White papers are ubiquitous across industries as critical content pieces that convince and convert key stakeholders. The best white papers inform, persuade, and captivate with engaging storytelling, clear translation of complex material, and rigorous research. Because white papers are technical and high-stakes, these assets can often take months for a content team to bring to life. They are also extremely expensive to outsource: a white paper can cost between $15K–$30K, depending on complexity and industry.

The Narratize White Paper Use Case empowers marketing, product, and innovation teams to create this high-value use case at a fraction of the time and expense. The use case features:

1. Human-led AI methodology that draws subject matter expertise and tacit knowledge from users, infusing each sentence with key insights. 
2. Narrative algorithms that are proven to spark buy-in for innovative products, ideas, processes, and methodologies.
3. A user-friendly interface facilitates editing and collaboration for content teams.
4. Developed by PhDs in scientific and technical writing with over a decade of experience crafting mission-critical white papers for fast-growth startups and Fortune 1000 brands.

In a study of 500 global researchers, product managers, engineers, and scientists, 73% of respondents rated Narratize more or much more accurate than ChatGPT. 

"Our commitment to innovation and pushing the boundaries of what AI can achieve has led us to this exciting milestone," says CEO and Co-Founder Katie Trauth Taylor, PhD. "The White Paper Use Case in Narratize reflects our dedication to providing our customers with cutting-edge solutions that drive innovation success in their respective industries. We are thrilled about the possibilities that this achievement opens up for optimizing more high-value, highly-technical use cases for enterprises everywhere."

To learn more about Narratize’s Generative AI Platform and its White Paper Use Case, please visit https://narratize.com.  

About Narratize

Narratize combines the power of narrative science with cutting-edge generative AI technology to ensure that no great idea is left untold. From optimizing research & development processes to scaling product launch, Narratize empowers brands with transformative ideas to unleash their full potential.

Media Contact

Kate Greulich

hello@narratize.com

Media Contact

Kate Greulich
kate@narratize.com

HOLY WATER by Alta Gracia, a company dedicated to elevating the human experience with spirit-lifting, sustainably packaged drinking water, today announced that they will be featured on Hello Sunshine’s “Side Hustlers” premiering on Roku. Supermodel and entrepreneur Ashley Graham has joined the new competition series "Side Hustlers", which she will co-host and executive produce alongside previously announced Emma Grede. The series premiered on March 1 on Roku.

With guidance and mentorship from powerhouse investors Grede and Graham, this 60-minute docuseries follows ambitious female entrepreneurs as they develop their side hustles in the hopes of pursuing their dream careers full-time. These founders vie for the chance to build multimillion-dollar companies while juggling the demands of their personal life and day jobs.

This collaboration with Hello Sunshine’s “Side Hustlers” provides HOLY WATER by Alta Gracia with a unique opportunity to showcase its brand to a wider audience and align with influential figures in the entertainment industry.

In the future, HOLY WATER by Alta Gracia aspires to broaden its impact, fostering a message of hope, renewal, and the potential for each of us to ascend to our highest selves.

For more information and to watch the show, visit Roku here. For more information about HOLY WATER by Alta Gracia, visit drink-holy-water.com.

About HOLY WATER by Alta Gracia

HOLY WATER by Alta Gracia, a positively provocative water, lifts and refreshes your spirit and reminds you to hydrate your higher self. We believe there is enough death, negativity and divisiveness in the world and we are here to awaken and unite the highest version of ourselves. Sourced from a Great Lakes aquifer, our water travels through crystals and minerals before it is purified and packaged in eternally recyclable aluminum cans. Intentionally sourced, blessed by you. Always plastic-free. To learn more about HOLY WATER by Alta Gracia, visit our website at https://www.drink-holy-water.com.

Media Contact

Graceann Bennett

g@agholywater.com

Media Contact

Graceann Bennett
g@agholywater.com

ATFX proudly announces the appointment of Drew Niv, a distinguished pioneer and thought leader in the FX industry, as its Chief Strategy Officer. With an illustrious career spanning over two decades, Drew Niv brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role at ATFX.

Drew Niv is widely recognized for his pivotal role in co-founding FXCM in 1999 and serving as its CEO for 19 years. During his tenure, he fostered strategic partnerships with institutional clients, including major hedge funds, prominent banks, and renowned financial institutions worldwide. His visionary leadership has left an indelible mark on the FX industry, with notable contributions to groundbreaking initiatives such as the development of FastMatch in collaboration with Credit Suisse and the establishment of Grid Sight as a forerunner in Machine Learning Artificial Intelligence for analysing and predicting price movements in CFD prices.

In his new capacity as Chief Strategy Officer at ATFX, Drew Niv will report directly to Joe Li, Chairman of ATFX Group. Joe Li expressed his enthusiasm for Drew Niv’s appointment, stating:

“We are delighted to welcome Drew Niv to the ATFX team. His extensive experience and strategic insights will be invaluable as we chart the course for our future growth and development. With Drew Niv on board, we are poised to revolutionize the landscape of financial services. His wealth of experience and strategic insights will play a crucial role in guiding our efforts to introduce groundbreaking financial products and advanced tools into the existing ATFX ecosystem. Moreover, Drew’s expertise will be instrumental in forming strategic partnerships that will drive our commitment to delivering unparalleled services that cater to the dynamic requirements of individual and institutional customers globally.”

ATFX’s commitment to innovation is evident in its track record of introducing pioneering technologies such as applying blockchain technologies in loyalty program, and AI-based solution in e-KYC workflows. These advancements reflect ATFX’s proactive approach to staying at the forefront of the industry and commitment to empower traders by enhance their trading experiences.

Drew Niv’s appointment comes as part of ATFX’s broader strategy to onboard elite professionals and expand its global footprint. Recent appointments include Linton White as Regional Head for ATFX Africa, Hormoz Faryar as Managing Director of Institutional Sales and Aditya Singh as the new Business Development Director International at ATFX MENA respectively. By recruiting highly experienced professionals like Drew Niv and fostering a culture of innovation and excellence, ATFX is poised to achieve long-term success and solidify its position as a dominant player in the global financial marketplace.

About ATFX

ATFX is a globally leading fintech broker, holding licenses in multiple countries, including the UK's FCA, Cyprus's CySEC, UAE's SCA, Australia's ASIC, and South Africa's FSCA. With a strong presence in Europe, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Latin America, APAC, and South Africa, ATFX is committed to delivering exceptional trading experiences to clients worldwide. The company prioritizes customer satisfaction, innovative technology, and strict regulatory compliance, positioning it as one of the top choices for traders seeking reliable and sophisticated trading solutions.

For further information on ATFX, please visit: https://www.atfx.com

Contact Details

Weems Chan

sales.uk@atfx.com

Media Contact

Weems Chan
sales.uk@atfx.com

Walkspan, a company that revolutionizes the real estate industry, today announced that it recently launched the beta version of their neighborhood intelligence platform designed to fully complement the property search engine used by all real estate companies. Five brokerage companies in the NYC area and Florida with a total of 102 users are actively beta testing the platform. The website plugin is easy to embed and comes in white label format.

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 78% of Americans are willing to pay more to move to walkable neighborhoods. NAR is an American trade association for those who work in the real estate industry. It has over 1.5 million members, making it the largest trade association in the U.S. including NAR's institutes, societies, and councils, involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries. The organization holds a U.S. trademark over the term "Realtor".

The integration of Walkspan's neighborhood intelligence platform with property search engines provides real estate professionals with comprehensive data on walkability, safety, amenities, and more. This allows them to better serve their clients by offering properties in desirable neighborhoods that align with their preferences and lifestyles.

In the future, Walkspan plans to expand their beta testing to additional markets and continue refining their platform based on user feedback and data analysis.

Readers can find more information about Walkspan by visiting https://walkspan.com.

About Walkspan

Walkspan is a New York-based data-driven and location intelligence technology firm with a deep commitment to improving urban life. Our mission is to leverage our expertise to serve the real estate sector, guiding it towards a future where every neighborhood is designed with the pedestrian in mind. Our offerings, including our one-of-a-kind neighborhood search platform, are essential tools for real estate professionals seeking to provide their clients with the best possible living environments. For more information, visit our website at https://walkspan.com.

Media Contact

Bernardita Calinao

bcalinao@walkspan.com

Media Contact

Bernardita Calinao
bcalinao@walkspan.com

NAFA Fleet Management Association (NAFA) proudly unveils Brian Fielkow, safety expert and leader, as a keynote speaker for the upcoming NAFA 2024 Institute & Expo. The event, renowned as the premier gathering of fleet and mobility professionals, will take place from April 22-24 in San Antonio, TX.

Brian is an esteemed leader in safety-sensitive industries, and brings over thirty years of executive leadership experience, particularly in transportation and logistics, to the I&E stage. As the Executive Vice President of Risk Resources at Acrisure, Brian provides strategic guidance to select companies, drawing from his distinguished career dedicated to fostering robust safety cultures. His expertise has earned him accolades such as the Distinguished Service to Safety Award from the National Safety Council.

“NAFA is thrilled to welcome Brian Fielkow as a keynote speaker for our 2024 Institute & Expo,” said Bill Schankel, CAE, CEO of NAFA. “Brian’s wealth of experience in safety-sensitive industries and his commitment to cultivating safety cultures align perfectly with NAFA’s mission. His session promises to equip attendees with actionable strategies to enhance safety and drive success within their organizations.”

During his keynote address, titled "The Roadmap to Fleet Safety," Brian will share invaluable insights into cultivating a safety-driven environment within organizations. Attendees can expect to gain practical tools and concepts to instill a behavior-based culture of safety, enhancing accountability and operational excellence.

Brian’s session will delve into key topics such as distinguishing safety as a core value, the pivotal role of leadership in driving safety initiatives, and strategies for inclusive engagement across all levels of an organization. Attendees will also learn about deploying metrics, breaking down silos and fostering a "just culture" that prioritizes prevention.

I&E attracts thousands of fleet professionals from a variety of fields, including corporate, government, public safety, utility, education and more. The three-day conference offers a blend of education, impactful conversations, networking opportunities, and products and services from the industry’s leading suppliers. More information about the I&E schedule can be found here.

Prospective exhibitors are encouraged to secure their space early to ensure prime placement in the I&E Expo Hall. For more information about reserving an exhibit booth, please visit NAFA’s website. Sponsorship opportunities can be secured here. This year’s current sponsors include Bestpass Inc., FASTER Asset Solutions, Geotab, Holman, Legend Fleet Solutions, Merchants Fleet, Motive, Samsara, Shell Fleet Solutions, Stellantis, U.S. Bank Voyager, WEX and Wheels, Inc.

About NAFA Fleet Management Association

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

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

Media Contact

Keaveny Hewitt

+1 919-622-5276

khewitt@onwrdupwrd.com

Media Contact

Keaveny Hewitt
khewitt@onwrdupwrd.com

Entre Mujeres LIVE!, the acclaimed bilingual event series known for its commitment to empowering Latina entrepreneurs in the US, is thrilled to announce its latest innovation: The Compass Society. This new, exclusive membership community is tailored specifically for Latina entrepreneurs who are bilingual and seeking opportunities for growth, learning, and collaboration. The inaugural event for The Compass Society is set to offer an intimate learning experience for a limited group of 40 attendees, featuring workshops, networking, and a marketplace, all culminating in an exquisite brunch. This unique event will take place at the Serena Hotel in Aventura, aligning with Women’s History Month, and is proudly presented in partnership with Genesis Motor America.

Event Highlights:

• Date & Time: March 6, 2024, 10:30 AM – 2 PM ET
• Venue: SERENA Hotel Aventura, a distinguished Tapestry Collection hotel by Hilton

Featured Workshop: The premiere session, “Discover the Secret Path to Double Your Sales,” led by Solangelie Molina, a seasoned digital strategist and television producer, is designed specifically for Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs. This workshop will delve into strategic sales planning, leadership, and overcoming growth-related challenges.

Networking Brunch: A delightful brunch awaits attendees, providing an ideal setting for building meaningful connections with fellow entrepreneurs.

Marketplace Showcase: Discover products and services from women-led businesses and new Compass Society members in a specially curated marketplace.

Why The Compass Society?

Entre Mujeres LIVE! is rooted in its mission to support immigrant women by offering a platform for resources and inspiration as they transition to life in the United States. The founders, Cristy Clavijo-Kish, Michelle Rodríguez-Tápanes, and Anabelle Blum, recognize the need for Latina entrepreneurs to develop critical business skills. The Compass Society’s custom programming focuses on in-depth topics with ample time for strategic networking and showcasing products at the marketplace.

“With approximately 5 million Latino/a-owned businesses in the U.S. generating over $800 billion annually, our community is experiencing significant growth,” the founders share. “The Compass Society aims to support this vibrant sector by providing at least three tailor-made workshops this year, alongside our annual conference. This initiative is a testament to our dedication to serving Latina entrepreneurs, particularly those who prefer to think and operate in Español.”

Secure Your Spot:

Availability is limited for this exclusive event. To secure your place and learn more about The Compass Society and its offerings, please visit entremujereslive.com.

Entre Mujeres LIVE! is not just an event; it’s a movement. Join us as we continue to empower Latina entrepreneurs, fostering a community of growth, learning, and success.

About Entre Mujeres LIVE!

The founders of Talento Unlimited– an award-winning, Latina-led boutique content marketing and talent management media company, partnered with Latina TV Host and expert lifestyle content creator Anabelle Blum to launch ENTRE MUJERES LIVE! in 2023 as a new venture producing dual-language events that allow attendees to Learn, Influence, Visualize, and Engage as a community through a curated agenda of conversation and educational moments. Following its successful, sold-out inaugural event in June and subsequent Wellness Luncheon in November, the trio is rapidly expanding new programming experiences and content campaigns under the Entre Mujeres LIVE! brand centered around crucial themes for Latina entrepreneurs and business managers.

For more information and sponsor partnership opportunities visit the event website at: https://entremujereslive.com or contact team@talentounlimited.com via email.

About Genesis Motor America

At Genesis, we put the customer at the center of every decision we make. Genesis is a global automotive brand that delivers the highest standards of performance, design, safety, and innovation while looking towards a more sustainable future. Genesis designs customer experiences that go beyond products, embodying audacious, forward-thinking, and distinctly Korean characteristics within its unique Athletic Elegance design identity. With a growing range of award-winning models—including G70, G80, and G90 sedans, along with GV60, GV70, and GV80 SUVs—Genesis aims to lead the age of electrification, starting with its Electrified G80, GV60, and Electrified GV70 models. Genesis has stated its commitment to becoming an all-electric vehicle brand by 2030 and to pursuing carbon neutrality by 2035. www.Genesis.com

Follow Genesis Motor America on: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok | YouTube

Media Contact

Cristy Clavijo-Kish

cristy@talentounlimited.com

Media Contact

Cristy Clavijo-Kish
cristy@talentounlimited.com

Ben Brunton, co-founder of Prestige Motorsports in San Antonio, is a prolific entrepreneur with multiple successful business ventures under his belt. Ben has an extensive background in business, specifically healthcare. He is a founding partner of Medical Facilities Holdings (MFH), PSN Affiliates, and, most recently, BE Enterprises, LLC.

Ben’s most recent venture, BE Enterprises, encompasses his and his business partner’s luxury lifestyle brands. Ben spends much of his time curating these unique lifestyle brands, ranging from luxury estate experiences with Edward Anthony Lifestyles, a bed and breakfast vineyard in Napa, Chateau De Vi, and most recently, opening a motorsports club and luxury car service, storage, and leasing business, Prestige Motorsports.

“Since childhood, I have had a massive passion for vehicles, cars, and motorsports. I saw a need in Texas, nationally, and globally with people like myself who have a car collection. These folks want to ensure each vehicle is serviced well, all while showing off their collection. This niche brings like-minded people together, and we saw an opportunity to create a country club-esque membership for people with this shared passion. That was the impetus for starting my storage and service facility. It allows me to enjoy my cars while giving back to the larger vehicle-loving community,” says Brunton.

At their state-of-the-art facility spanning 19,000 square feet in the northern part of San Antonio, members can enjoy a wide array of amenities. Provided by their in-house boutique dealership, car enthusiasts have the opportunity to purchase, sell, trade, or consign their vehicles. The members-only clubhouse boasts an opulent viewing lounge situated on a 3,000-square-foot mezzanine, complete with a full-service bar, large-screen TVs, a cutting-edge realistic Formula 1™ simulator, and more.

A range of services is offered to their members to ensure their vehicles remain in optimal condition. The Prestige Performance Shop, their official service and performance provider, can provide a spectrum of detailing services, from routine maintenance washes to comprehensive paint correction and ceramic coating. Also, the climate-controlled and secure storage facility presents an enticing and distinctive option for the storage needs of car collectors.

Moreover, members gain access to an array of social events, including Formula 1™ and other major sports viewing parties, poker nights, networking events, and more. Prestige Motorsports also holds exclusive access to Edward Anthony Lifestyles' property portfolio in Napa Valley. With every curated experience and event, the Prestige team takes care of every detail for an elevated excursion.

Prestige Motorsports continually hopes to expand its offerings for its members and strives to continue to give back to the San Antonio community. The team is highly focused on their commitment to customized customer services. Bruton hopes that Prestige Motorsports will leave a legacy and open up opportunities for community, partnership, and connections with shared vision and passions. He wants Prestige Motorsports to cultivate a place where people can connect and make memories.

About Prestige Motorsports

Prestige Motorsports is the premier automotive social club in the San Antonio area. Surround yourself with the most “prestigious” people and cars San Antonio has to offer. Our beautiful dealership, storage facility, and lounge are the ultimate places for motorsports enthusiasts and car lovers to enjoy. Whether you’re coming by to have a drink, enjoy the clubhouse, or network with our membership community—Prestige Motorsports has you covered. From drive days and watch parties to members-only events with special guests, we are more than just a show gallery for your vehicles. We are a group where you can connect and build friendships. With our full-service bar, state-of-the-art Formula simulator, and luxurious automotive-themed lounge, members are sure to enjoy their time at Prestige Motorsports.

Media Contact

Madison Baber

+1 210-213-2426

madison@rprfirm.com

Media Contact

Madison Baber
madison@rprfirm.com

AdvicePay, the leading platform for processing payments and overseeing compliance of fee-for-service financial planning so advisors can get paid for their advice, announced today that it has launched new integrations with eMoney, a leading provider of technology solutions that helps people talk about money, that will offer efficiencies for joint customers navigating between the two platforms.

With the integration, advisors can eliminate redundant tasks like logging in or creating client profiles in each platform. Advisors will also be able to send AdvicePay-generated documents, such as planning agreements or invoices, directly to their client’s eMoney vault, centralizing all important information related to their engagement with the advisor.

“As more and more financial advisors charge standalone fees for their financial planning services, existing AUM-based workflows for billing from portfolio management systems may not work anymore. Instead, as financial planning becomes the central value proposition, financial planning software like eMoney becomes the central hub for clients… and so it’s only natural that financial planning fee billing capabilities become more deeply integrated to financial planning software,” said AdvicePay co-founder Michael Kitces. “We view the eMoney partnership as a unique opportunity to join forces with another leader in this space. Together, we are building an entire fee-for-service planning ecosystem to help advisors capitalize on the growing demand from consumers to be able to simply pay one-time or ongoing subscription fees for the advice relationship they want.”

For AdvicePay and eMoney, the integration creates a natural synergy. The idea for the integration originated with AdvicePay clients, who expressed interest in having a tie-in between the two systems, and will be available to all eMoney advisors looking to begin charging financial planning fees (or to expedite their billing workflows if they already charge for financial plans.)

“We look forward to helping advisors simplify and streamline their workflow so they can more easily get paid fees for their value, and spend their time doing what matters most: working with their clients to plan for the future,” said Ricky Illigasch, VP, Product Management at eMoney Advisor.

In November, AdvicePay announced that it had completed its one-millionth transaction since its launch in 2018. Over the past two years, AdvicePay has experienced a 102% increase in advisors added to the platform and a 193% growth in transaction volume. In 2023, for the second straight year, AdvicePay was named one of America’s fastest-growing private companies on the prestigious Inc. 5000 list.

Want to know more?

Check out our blog post, “Introducing the eMoney and AdvicePay Integration” for more insights and how to get set up.

To learn more about the AdvicePay platform, head to www.AdvicePay.com.

About AdvicePay

Established by well-known financial advisors Michael Kitces and Alan Moore, AdvicePay is the industry-leading billing and payment workflow solution created specifically for fee-for-service financial planning. Financial services firms and their advisors benefit from efficient workflows designed exclusively to support their fee-for-service financial planning revenue, including up-to-date compliance and data security management, all in one unified platform.

Media Contact

Shannon Beck

406-412-2047

media@advicepay.com

Media Contact

Shannon Beck
media@advicepay.com

To instill confidence and foster innovation in the agricultural biologicals sector, DPH Biologicals announced the expansion of its science-first, data-verified approach with a multi-year effort to quantify the comprehensive value potential of biologicals.

“DPH Bio has been committed to science that yields results from day one. Based on multi-year field research and through collaborations with our partners, we aim to provide customers a deeper understanding of the distinct value potential unlocked by biologicals,” said Mick Messman, President and CEO of DPH Bio, speaking at the 2024 Commodity Classic agricultural trade show in Houston that annually convenes thousands of growers. “Historically, return-on-investment has been measured by the cost to increase yield. However, our customers see the long-term value that biologicals deliver, such as improved soil health, water use efficiency, disease control, and plantability.”

A review of 107 corn trials conducted over three years using TerraTrove SP-1 Classic revealed increased fertilizer efficiency in addition to average yield increase of 2.5 bu/A.

“Although yield is an important metric, we believe it’s critical for growers to be able to measure the holistic value of biologicals in the field and across their entire business,” said Messman. “As we expand our portfolio and industry partnerships, we are pioneering the concept of ‘BioAgonomics’ to capture and maximize the full value proposition of biological solutions. As we further analyze the data, we are seeing some interesting trends based on management practices and soil conditions.”

For example, in a multi-year study, SP-1 averaged 6.5 more bushels per acre in high-yield, 220-bushel per acre corn in the Midwest.

DPH Biologicals Introduces BioAgonomics™ to Redefine On-Farm Value

Defined by DPH Bio as the branch of knowledge in agriculture focused on the connection between agronomic practices in crop production and the transfer and consumption of value uniquely unlocked by biologicals, BioAgonomics™ uses biologicals to create sustainable profitability and ingenuity across the supply chain, delivering the highest value in the field and for channel partners, including growers, ag retailers and advisors, product manufacturers and food companies.

For instance, TerraTrove™ Residuce® Complete delivers more than increased yield and fertilizer savings. As a comprehensive biodigester, Residuce accelerates the breakdown of crop residue, like corn stover and tough organic matter. A Michigan State University study revealed that corn stover contains 100 pounds of nitrogen (N), 50 pounds of phosphorus (P), and 210 pounds of potassium (K) an acre on a 200- bushell crop. In a recent field trial, Residuce delivered 19.7% degradation after a fall application. By leveraging these findings, Residuce can be calculated to provide 19.7 pounds of N, 9.85 pounds of P and 41.37 pounds of K, or more than $45 per acre in fertilizer savings.

Furthermore, additional value can be quantified by accounting for factors, such as more uniform seedling emergence, reduced farm equipment wear and tear, reduction of the disease host, and improved plant standability, as well as the retention and conversion of carbon within the soil. Through collaborations with trusted advisors, including prominent researchers at University of Illinois, DPH Bio will continue to collect and evaluate data to calculate biologicals’ comprehensive value to growers in aspects beyond yield.

“With advanced scientific research and on-farm trials, results can easily be seen in the field, but we aspire for more,” said Messman. “The pivotal convergence of biologicals, agronomy and economics holds the key for a triple bottom-line impact by improving crop production, land stewardship and rural livelihoods. Looking ahead, and in collaboration with our partners, our mission is to give growers an even clearer, comprehensive view of their investment in biologicals.”

For more information, growers participating in Commodity Classic are invited to visit DPH Bio at Booth 6945 on the third floor of the George Brown Convention Center. In addition, the company plans a series of workshops, including a CropLife webinar on March 5th.

About DPH Biologicals

DPH Biologicals, LLC attracts, develops and scales technologies improving broad market access and simplifying the grower experience with biologicals. Based on investments in scientific research, field testing, partner relationships and product development, and leadership-owned since 2024, DPH Bio yields success through science and relationships, standing at the leading edge of clarity, trust and proven, profitable solutions for agricultural biologicals. For more information, visit www.dphbio.com.

Media Contact

Sara Winters

sara@agtechpr.com

Media Contact

Sara Winters
sara@agtechpr.com

Cognia®, the leader in school improvement and evaluation, announced today that it is acquiring fellow nonprofit CenterPoint Education Solutions, which supports educators in their use of assessment and curriculum. This acquisition, which was approved by Cognia’s board of directors Tuesday, enables Cognia to expand its assessment program to offer curriculum-based assessments offered at multiple intervals during the year.

The new assessments and aligned professional learning offered by CenterPoint provide an alternative for state education agencies, districts, and schools that want something more than traditional large-scale summative assessments. The assessments used by most states today for accountability purposes are not designed to help improve teaching and learning because they are given at the end of the year and do not reflect the curriculum that has been taught.

Based in Washington, D.C., CenterPoint has an extensive K-12 assessment item bank in mathematics, English language arts, and science. “CenterPoint is one of the most highly regarded curriculum-based assessment providers,” said Dr. Mark A. Elgart, president and CEO of Cognia. “This acquisition allows Cognia to be competitive in an emerging market immediately—this will have a direct impact on our existing summative work.” Cognia now offers options for next-generation assessment of learning for students across K-12 with learning alignment between classroom instruction and student assessments that are aligned to state standards and meet accountability requirements.

“CenterPoint has an important resource in curriculum-based assessments that are of great value to schools, districts, and states,” said Sue Krause, interim CEO of Center Point. “Cognia has a vast network of schools, districts, and states that are committed to improvement and want their assessments to reflect what students are learning.”

CenterPoint works with schools, districts, and states to provide reliable curriculum-based assessments, high-quality academic services, and expert professional learning solutions. This acquisition primes Cognia for growth and expands what Cognia offers states and districts that are looking to improve and be more responsive to students, parents, and teachers.

“These are two like-minded, mission-driven organizations that together will develop opportunities for states to align assessment with curriculum, improve their accountability systems, and drive improvement,” said Laura Stover, managing director, ETS and former CEO of CenterPoint.

The acquisition expands Cognia Assessment Solutions from grades 3 to 8 in English language arts, mathematics, and science to a full complement of K-12 summative and interim curriculum-based assessment solutions. The important grant-funded work CenterPoint is doing in K-12 science assessment will continue. CenterPoint staff will become a part of Cognia to support the design and delivery of curriculum-based assessments, and professional learning training on assessment use and literacy. The acquisition is expected to be finalized by June 30, 2024. Cognia will assume responsibility for the operation of CenterPoint on July 1.

About CenterPoint

CenterPoint Education Solutions is a nonprofit organization that supports schools, districts, and states in designing and implementing aligned systems of high-quality curriculum, assessments, and professional learning that drive high achievement for all children.

About Cognia

Cognia® is a global, nonprofit improvement organization dedicated to helping schools and other education providers grow learners, teachers, and leaders. Cognia offers accreditation and certification, assessment, and professional services within a framework of continuous improvement. Serving 40,000 public and private institutions from early learning through high school in more than 90 countries, Cognia brings a global perspective to advancing teaching and learning. Find out more at cognia.org. The news release can be found on the website here.

Media Contact

Shep Ranbom

+1 202-365-4774

sranbom@communicationworks.com

Media Contact

Shep Ranbom
sranbom@communicationworks.com

In an exhilarating display of art, innovation meets space exploration; Space Blue has catapulted bitcoin and art preservation into a celestial realm, marking a historic moment as the first bitcoin and bitcoin ordinal art projects landed in the Lunaprise, a payload bolted to the lunar lander. This monumental feat was achieved through the curation of 222 avant-garde art projects, encased for 1 billion years within the Lunaprise time capsule, now sitting on the lunar landscape since successfully landing there on February 22, 2024.

From Earth to Moon: A Journey of Bitcoin Art and Legacy

On a mission that sounds like the plot of a sci-fi blockbuster, the Lunaprise Moon Museum, aboard a payload in the SpaceX Falcon 9, embarked from Cape Canaveral, Florida, on February 15, 2022. Its successful lunar touchdown on February 22, 2024, as the Lunaprise museum was bolted to the lunar lander, was not just a triumph of logistics and engineering but a bold statement on the future of indestructive art.

Dallas Santana, the curator and founder behind Space Blue, is no stranger to pushing boundaries. With an exhilarating career spanning defense contracting, executive producing programming for major television networks, and pioneering Web 3.0 innovative projects minting on the blockchain the first sneakers, some of the first photo collections, and Academy Awards moments. Santana's latest venture curating art being permanently placed in space is a testament to his vision of merging cutting-edge technology available with the brilliant inventors of the nickel Nanofiche disks that are the lunar library, with human expression in art. He comes from a family who set records in technical innovation and art, his family are Ivy League graduates in art and art history, his grandparents both art professors set a world record for their art collection sold at Sotheby's Hong Kong, and his grandfather was a young Yale engineer, working in media innovations with radio pioneer de Forest on the first broadcast of radio over bodies of water across Cape Cod.

The first project sent to the moon to be inscribed on Bitcoin for future art authentication was a motion picture and art collection called "The 9th Raider", a post-apocalyptic film (think Mad Max) Santana directed and which was funded entirely through Ethereum and Bitcoin, stands archived as the first feature film in the Lunaprise Museum on the moon. To make the film, Santana teamed up in projects with many of the other web 3.0 leaders including casting CL7, the most influential industry-famous digital art collector and the largest most influential collector of space art in the world. CL7 was cast in a starring role as an astronaut selected by AI in the future to save mankind by attempting to retrieve a knowledge ark left on Mars. The motorcyclist and actor CL7  boasts a space art collection in the tens of thousands of art pieces. CL7's film frames from the movie are now inscribed on the nickel nano fiche disks on the moon set to last over 1 billion years and now inscribed on the Bitcoin network as bitcoin ordinals. Talk about Hollywood's legacy immortalized with your images from a movie poster on the moon for a billion years and as indestructible bitcoin will certainly outlast the rusty metal inscriptions torn up every year on Hollywood's Walk of Fame.

A Legacy Encoded in Bitcoin Ordinals

The Lunaprise Moon Museum hosts the first-ever Bitcoin ordinal art, embedding digital masterpieces directly into Bitcoin's DNA. Among these, Marshmello, the first pet character to reach the moon since the iconic Snoopy, has landed, bringing a touch of "lovable" to this stellar collection. The lovable moon pup Marshmello has 1,111 art pieces in the Lunaprise and had 11 super rare art pieces inscribed as bitcoin ordinals at the birth of bitcoin art as an ordinal in early 2023 as well on the largest digital collectible network in the U.S. on Nifty Gateway, where her art pieces have reached floor prices of over $1 million.

What's a Bitcoin Ordinal?

A revolutionary canvas for digital artists, Bitcoin ordinals inscribe art into Bitcoin's foundational elements, bitcoin ordinal platforms marking a new era for art commerce with over $334 million in bitcoin ordinal art sales worldwide in January 2024 alone in a new art innovation barely a year old. Space Blue got into the bitcoin art alongside one of its marketing partners BitBasel, who is also announcing that they will launch lunar art on their bitcoin ordinal network soon.

A Dream Fueled by Passion and Purpose

Dallas Santana's journey from aspiring astronaut to space art curator is fueled by a lifetime of dreams and determination. Inspired by the Apollo missions and a stint in the U.S. Marine Corps heading for naval aviation, Santana's path to Space Blue has been anything but conventional. Today, his dream of space exploration lives on through the Lunaprise mission, blending art, history, and technology.

The Art of the Universe: Preserving Humanity's Legacy

Under Santana's curation, the Lunaprise mission carries a treasure trove of human creativity, from Stan Lee's marvels to masterpieces of the Renaissance. This celestial archive ensures that humanity's cultural and scientific achievements are preserved for millennia, symbolizing a leap forward in our quest to immortalize human knowledge and creativity.

A New Era of Lunar Exploration and Art

It is NASA's Commercial Lunar Payload Services and the Arch Mission Foundation, that make Space Blue's Lunaprise mission more than an artistic endeavor; it's a cornerstone for future lunar exploration, a vision for securing humanity's culture, and knowledge for billions of year and a testament to humanity's unyielding spirit of discovery.

"Climate Refugees," a documentary directed by Michael P. Nash, has not only garnered critical acclaim since its premiere at the 2010 Sundance Film Festival but has also become a symbol of hope and urgency in addressing the pressing issue of the human face of climate change.

Now, in 2024, "Climate Refugees" takes on a new journey as it becomes part of a groundbreaking initiative: the SpaceBlue Lunaprise time arts and humanity capsule. "Climate Refugees" is the sole documentary film that now rests on the lunar surface, a testament to humanity's quest for exploration and enlightenment.

Now destined to be inscribed as bitcoin ordinals are the filmmaker's private notes and storyboard original artwork, dating back to the years 2007–2009, while the film was in the conception and production phases.  These artifacts offer a glimpse into the genesis of the documentary: the original story thoughts, possible titles, production notes, and storyboards that shaped a narrative that would change the way the world perceives climate change.

How Bitcoin Art Projects Could Help Humanity with Impact Projects

As with the other projects, a large part of the proceeds are earmarked for impact-driven initiatives. These funds will fuel call-to-action campaigns for the sequel currently in production, titled "Chasing Truth." The process used to create the bitcoin ordinals and authenticate its contents is entirely sustainable, with a net-negative carbon footprint. This aligns seamlessly with the themes of environmental stewardship and social responsibility at the heart of "Climate Refugees."

Space Blue has achieved remarkable milestones in content curation for the mission. Notably, 222 creators’ works of art spanning 30,000 years of art history have been organized under Santana’s direction. This contributed unique pieces which include: Stan Lee (Marvel co-creator), Legion Universe/Nova Family Offices (collaboration with Lee Baker and Stan Lee), the film "The 9th Raider," Lunar Records (hit songs and artists), acclaimed photographer Pepe Soho, 5x Grammy winner Timbaland (with beats from Justin Timberlake and Jay-Z’s beatbox project”), the Cryptopup animation by Marshmello the "Moon Pup," and award-winning director Michael P. Nash’s soon-to-be-released documentary on climate change. Also featured, “Ryūzan: FACE the DRAGON” by Sir Godric Rei8gn, is a 47-Ronin-inspired art collection of legendary Japanese Samurai art and history, not to mention over 100 masters of the Renaissance era from Michelangelo to Leonardo da Vinci on board the mission with twin copies inscribed into nickel and Nanofiche lunar discs that will last over 1 billion years. All projects which will have a bitcoin ordinal dimension to their added art mediums.

The Lunaprise Moon Museum's mission is to establish a lunar repository of human knowledge, symbolizing a giant leap for mankind in preserving our cultural and scientific legacy. This partnership exemplifies the fusion of innovation, creativity, and a shared commitment to immortalizing human achievements.

About Space Blue

Space Blue is building a global influential community for lovers of art and space with exhibits they do all over the world. Its vision is to be at the vanguard of merging space exploration with artistic expression, dedicated to inspiring humanity's celestial journey while championing impactful earthbound projects through art, film, and music. Discover their universe of projects and join the adventure at www.spaceblue.club.

For more information on "The 9th Raider" movie lunar collection, visit https://gamma.io/ordinals/collections/the-9th-raider.

For more information on Marshmello, the Arctic pup on the moon, visit https://gamma.io/ordinals/collections/marshmello.

For more information on the Legion Universe/Nova Family Offices Ordinals, visit https://gamma.io/ordinals/collections/legion-ordinals.

For more information on the "Climate Refugees" movie, visit http://www.climaterefugees.com.

Media Contact

Curator's Office
curator@spaceblue.club

The Backpack ecosystem of companies, creators of the Backpack wallet, the Mad Lads NFT collection, and Backpack Exchange, today announced the first joint closing of their $17 million strategic Series A round at a $120 million combined valuation. The round was led by Placeholder VC, with participation from a select group of other strategic investors including Hashed, Robot Ventures, Amber Group, Wintermute Ventures, Selini Capital, Delphi Digital, and founders of leading web3 ecosystems such as Solana, Tensor, Jito, Zeta, Marginfi, Drift, Monad, Galxe, and other influential supporters worldwide.

Armani Ferrante, CEO of Backpack commented on the news:

“The history of finance is littered with scandals, but Backpack is doing things differently. Over the past year, we’ve set the foundation to build a crypto-native financial institution, and with the conclusion of this round, with trust minimization and compliance as foundational principles, we begin a new chapter for ourselves and, hopefully, for the rest of the industry.”

The Backpack ecosystem comprises several products and services, including the popular Backpack noncustodial wallet, Backpack Exchange, a fully regulated global cryptocurrency exchange with industry-leading speed, security and functionalities, and Mad Lads, currently the top NFT community in the Solana ecosystem. Backpack is also the creator and developer of Anchor, the Solana smart contract framework, the executable NFT (xNFT) token standard, and others.

Backpack’s strategic fundraising was led by Placeholder VC. “We’ve been impressed with Backpack’s ability to not only deliver high-quality applications, but also build a strong community around their ecosystem,” said Joel Monegro, General Partner at Placeholder VC. “After building a relationship with the team over the past year, we’re convinced they have the skill, ambition and drive to create one of the most trustworthy global exchanges in the industry with a strong focus on performance, compliance, and auditability.”

“The Backpack team is an all-star team that really understands the community with a focus on building compliant services. Their ability to create the best user experience is top notch, and the synergies within their ecosystem are evidenced by their strong track record of user acquisition within the industry to date.” Baek Kim, General Partner at Hashed said. “We are very excited to work with the team and resonate deeply with their compliance standpoint in terms of being optimally regulated and entering the mainstream of the global financial infrastructure.”

The round also attracted strong interest from other leading web3 ecosystem players. “The Backpack team is a great example of what happens when crypto natives are also strong builders. They understand that crypto is not just the underlying technology, it is also the culture that forms around it,” said Evgeny Gaevoy, founder of Wintermute Ventures, one of the largest liquidity providers in digital assets, “For me, Backpack is having the success I would expect, when a team figures out the intersection of tech and culture. I’m excited to see them continue to grow.”

Backpack’s fundraising was applauded by the Solana ecosystem as well. “Backpack has not only pioneered exceptional products such as the Backpack Wallet but has also cultivated a remarkable community through the Mad Lads. Armani and the Backpack team have exemplified what it means to focus on great products and user experiences and iterate relentlessly,” said Anatoly Yakovenko, founder of Solana Labs, “Watching Backpack build a global exchange that stands out for its user experience and trustworthiness has been truly inspiring.”

About Backpack Wallet

Backpack Wallet is an all-in-one web3 app that functions as a noncustodial wallet, allowing users to buy, hold, sell, and transfer cryptocurrencies, as well as interact with xNFTs, a popular NFT standard that tokenizes applications. Backpack Wallet is also the creator of Mad Lads, the top NFT collection in the Solana ecosystem. For additional information on Backpack Wallet, visit https://www.backpack.app.

About Backpack Exchange

Backpack Exchange is a fully regulated global cryptocurrency exchange innovating to provide an exciting, fun, and easy-to-use trading platform for both experienced and new web3 users worldwide. For more information, visit backpack.exchange.

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Backpack

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@BackpackExchange

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/backpackexchange

Media Contact

Qimei Luo

press@backpack.exchange

Media Contact

Qimei Luo
press@backpack.exchange

In a historic moment that marks a significant milestone in the intersection of music and outer space, the Lunaprise Museum proudly announced the successful lunar landing of Brayden Pierce’s "Capture the Moon (MOOON.PARTY Mix)." Not long ago, all of Brayden Pierce’s music recordings were destroyed in one fatal rainstorm. He thought music was over for him, but the moon had different plans: On February 22, 2024, Brayden Pierce and his song “Capture the Moon (MOOON.PARTY Mix)" made history as the first music artist with an electronic dance song on the moon as part of Space Blue’s curated archive on SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket, coinciding with NASA's monumental return to the moon after over 50 years. This groundbreaking initiative, a time capsule of humanity’s creativity and innovation, sets Brayden Pierce alongside 222 legendary artists like Jimi Hendrix, Bob Marley, and Elvis Presley, whose digitized recordings were also placed in the Lunaprise Museum. The digital museum is designed to withstand the test of time on the moon for a billion years, ensuring "Capture the Moon" will resonate forever. 

About Artist/Entrepreneur Brayden Pierce

As a lifelong music artist, Brayden is a true polymath, excelling in singing, multiple instruments, DJing, songwriting, producing, and mixing. Despite his impressive achievements, including sold-out shows in Los Angeles, songs with millions of plays, and performances at major festivals, Brayden has remained largely under the radar. In response to the challenges of navigating the digital music landscape, Brayden took an entrepreneurial approach and created Soundromeda, a revolutionary music entertainment platform. More than two years deep in Soundromeda’s development, Brayden’s platform evolves the traditional music listening experience by transforming songs into dynamic songworlds infused with magical game design, providing artists with a fresh canvas to showcase their creativity and be discovered in a crowded digital space. Through Soundromeda, Brayden seeks to unlock new value for music and empower artists to connect with audiences in innovative ways, bridging the gap between technology and creativity for a more immersive future of music consumption.

Capturing the Moon

Brayden kissed being a music artist goodbye in 2022 when his laptop and hard drives were destroyed in one fatal rainstorm, taking all of his music with it. That is, until he teamed up with designer and artist Kelly Max a year later. Brayden made a special Modernist edition of his song “Capture the Moon” for Kelly’s Modernist art series (a collection now archived on the moon).

Brayden originally wrote “Capture the Moon” in 2011 as an ode to the old Latin saying carpe diem ("seize the day"), encouraging the listener to live life to the fullest in each moment and achieve your dreams before our time on this planet is up. The song reincarnated at least six times in all of Brayden’s music projects, ending with Kelly’s urge for a more dance floor-ready version: the MOOON.PARTY Mix. 

MOOON.PARTY: A Festival Fusion of Music, Art, and Space 

Electrified by their collaboration, Brayden Pierce and Kelly Max co-founded MOOON.PARTY, a powerful entertainment venture aimed at redefining the festival experience. This innovative brand seamlessly merges art, music, and space exploration, offering audiences an unparalleled immersive experience with exclusive space content. MOOON.PARTY sets a new standard in global festivals, inviting attendees to engage with art and music in a new way. Brayden says, "Where humans go, art is there to define us. Embracing the moon's view offers a beacon of hope for humankind to see past our differences and open our eyes into compassion and kindness. MOOON.PARTY is more than a celebration. It symbolizes a new chapter for human culture existing beyond Earth.”

Capture the Moon (MOOON.PARTY Mix): A Historic Release Inspiring Generations to Dream Beyond

The Lunaprise Museum, curated by Dallas Santana (Founder of Space Blue), handpicked Brayden Pierce’s transcendent track, "Capture the Moon," in early 2023, cementing his status among 222 artists chosen to be archived on the moon for a billion years. The Lunaprise Museum landing not only signifies the establishment of the first museum beyond Earth, but also serves as a beacon of human creativity and ingenuity. Leveraging patented technologies and blockchain authentication, Lunaprise pioneers a historic disruption in space tech, offering collectors rare, verified assets linked to twin digital files stored in the lunar museum.

As Brayden Pierce's "Capture the Moon" becomes a moon anthem, Soundromeda pioneers a new era of  space-themed music entertainment and MOOON.PARTY redefines the global festival scene, Brayden Pierce will forever be the first-ever EDM artist to land on the moon with his music and immortalize his artistic voice in the cosmos. Reflecting on this monumental project, Brayden expresses profound gratitude, stating, "To have 'Capture the Moon' play among the stars is a dream realized."

Click here to listen to "Capture the Moon (MOOON.PARTY Mix)"

#CaptureTheMoon #BraydenPierce #MOOONPARTY #Soundromeda #Lunaprise 

Media Contact

Claudia Safavi

+1 305-864-3434

claudia@taraink.com

DSP and social media links to "Capture the Moon":

https://hypeddit.com/braydenpierce/capturethemoon

https://www.instagram.com/braydenpierce

http://youtube.com/c/kingdoms

https://www.twitter.com/braydenpierce

https://soundcloud.com/braydenpierce

https://www.tiktok.com/@braydenpierce_

https://www.facebook.com/braydenpiercemusic

https://www.bandsintown.com/a/14375859-brayden-pierce

https://open.spotify.com/artist/6zjHf8TW9Hg6dCTYZzgjdW?si=ZyNPJt84QmWayKO4HSmYhg

To learn more about the Lunaprise Museum and its curation by Space Blue, click here.

To learn more future of music, visit Soundromeda here.

Media Contact

Brayden Pierce
brayden@soundromeda.com

The Lunaprise Moon Museum proudly unveils a historic lunar landing, a testament to human creativity that transcends earthly bounds. This momentous occasion features the pioneering digital artworks of designer/artist Kelly Max, the imaginative creations of artist Samy Halim, and the captivating music of producer/artist Brayden Pierce, heralding a new era for art, music, and space exploration.

A Tale of Resilience and Inspiration

This event marks more than a milestone in technological achievement; it celebrates the enduring spirit of its contributors. Faced with potential extinction in 2022, the Modernist project, under the stewardship of Kelly Max and Samy Halim, not only survived but thrived, emerging as one of the most celebrated art collections both on Earth and now, uniquely, in space. Their journey from near dissolution to achieving a place among the stars highlights the resilience and unity that the endeavor inspired. This remarkable story of overcoming adversity underscores the transformative power of art and belief to foster hope and bring people together across the universe.

In 2022, Brayden Pierce, a multi-talented singer/producer/DJ, lost all of his recorded music to a fatal rainstorm. Introduced to the Lunaprise Museum mission by Kelly a year later, Brayden's artistic contributions have now carved a unique niche in the annals of space history with the song "Capture the Moon."

The Modernist Artworks: A Legacy Encased in Moon Dust

The digital "Modernist Art" collection, a collaborative effort between Kelly Max and Samy Halim, features the MoonRider piece, a digital tapestry carrying 180 names pivotal to their journey. This collection also comprises 420 Modernist originals and 9,724 generative Modernist genesis artworks. Selected for lunar preservation, these pieces embody human creativity and the collective spirit of innovation, expected to last over a billion years on the lunar surface.

Brayden Pierce: A Sound Pioneer

Brayden Pierce's contribution, the soul-stirring "Capture the Moon", becomes the first electronic dance song to grace the lunar landscape. Available in two versions: The Modernist Edition and the MOOON.PARTY Mix, Pierce's work symbolizes a bridge between worlds, echoing humanity's aspirations and dreams among the stars. Pierce states:

"Being part of this lunar legacy is an honor that transcends words, to have 'Capture the Moon' play among the stars is a dream realized."

MOOON.PARTY: Uniting Through Art and Music

The newest venture in the creative pack, MOOON.PARTY, co-founded by Kelly Max and Brayden Pierce, represents a groundbreaking fusion of art, music, and space, aimed at forging a global community that celebrates human achievement and connectivity. "Our work is a testament to what humanity can accomplish when we unite in creativity and purpose," says Kelly Max. "MOOON.PARTY is more than an event; it's a movement towards a unified, inspired future."

This new venture has already gained traction, not only with its inaugural event at 2023 Miami Art Week 2023 but also by programming and co-producing the Lunaprise Rocket Launch Gala at Kennedy Space Center on February 14, 2024, together with Space Blue. By blending art, music, space, and space content recording, MOOON.PARTY is set to redefine immersive entertainment experiences. Leveraging the backdrop of space, it aims to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

Kelly Max reflects on what makes this journey so unique:

"What's truly special about our work and this historic moment is our passion for sharing this incredible journey with the world, to foster unity, belief, and mutual respect. Through the Modernist collection's inclusive art, the MoonRider's celebration of collective contributions, and Capture the Moon's musical bridge to space, we aim to cultivate a sense of global connection. MOOON.PARTY transcends mere events—it's about crafting a lasting community, inviting all to embrace this new viewpoint. Our vision of Earth from the moon inspires us to dream bigger and offer a unifying perspective for humanity. The Moonview."

A Cosmic Canvas for Humanity's Best

The Lunaprise Museum, curated by Dallas Santana (founder of Space Blue), not only marks the establishment of the first extraterrestrial museum but also showcases the limitless potential of artistic expression. Through the preservation and authentication of digital assets using blockchain, this initiative promises to keep the essence of human creativity alive for eons, inspiring future generations to explore the unknown.

Dive into the Artistic Cosmos

Join us on a journey beyond the stars and immerse yourself in the Lunaprise Museum's extraordinary collection. Discover the stories behind the Modernist Artworks, experience "Capture the Moon" by Brayden Pierce, and be part of a community that's redefining the boundaries of art and music.

For more information about the Lunaprise Moon Museum, its curation by SpaceBlue, and the historic contributions of Kelly Max, Samy Halim, and Brayden Pierce, please visit https://spaceblue.club/projects/lunaprise-mission.

For information about Modernist, please visit https://www.modernistxyz.com.

To listen to "Capture the Moon (MOOON.PARTY Mix)," please visit https://hypeddit.com/braydenpierce/capturethemoon.

Media Contact

Claudia Safavi

claudia@taraink.com

Media Contact

Claudia Safavi
claudia@taraink.com

Park Slope Cleaning, a M/WBE-certified company specializing in commercial cleaning and janitorial services for establishments in Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Queens, today announced that it has been awarded certification as a women-owned business enterprise (WBE) by the New York State Department of Economic Development, Division of Minority and Women's Business Development (DMWBD). This certification confirms that Park Slope Cleaning meets the eligibility requirements set forth by New York State Executive Law.

This certification is a significant milestone for Park Slope Cleaning as it demonstrates the company's commitment to promoting diversity and supporting women-owned businesses in the commercial cleaning industry. By obtaining WBE certification, Park Slope Cleaning is now positioned to further expand its reach and serve a wider range of clients in the New York State area.

As a leading provider of commercial cleaning and janitorial services in Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Queens, Park Slope Cleaning's M/WBE and WBE certifications set it apart from competitors and showcases its dedication to excellence and inclusivity. Clients can trust that Park Slope Cleaning not only delivers top-notch cleaning services but also upholds the values of diversity and empowerment in the business community.

According to Diana Ciechorska, General Manager of Park Slope Cleaning, "We are thrilled to receive WBE certification from the state of New York. This recognition validates our ongoing efforts to provide exceptional cleaning services while championing women-owned businesses in the industry."

Looking ahead, Park Slope Cleaning plans to leverage its WBE certification to forge new partnerships, expand its client base, and continue delivering superior cleaning solutions to businesses across Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Queens.

For more information about Park Slope Cleaning and its services, visit https://www.parkslopecleaning.com.

About Park Slope Cleaning

Park Slope Cleaning is a leading M/WBE and WBE-certified commercial cleaning company based in New York City. Renowned for its commitment to excellence and client satisfaction, Park Slope Cleaning provides a comprehensive range of cleaning services tailored to meet the unique needs of businesses in the New York City area.

Media Contact

Diana Ciechorska

info@parkslopecleaning.com

Media Contact

Diana Ciechorska
info@parkslopecleaning.com

The Global Kratom Coalition (GKC) announced today their support of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as they undertake clinical research on kratom. Clinical research is necessary to expand understanding of kratom consumer safety, guide regulatory decision-making, and impact global health. The GKC is expressing support for an efficient research timeline that produces findings for real-life applications.

The GKC also applauded the FDA for the appointment of James “Jim” Jones, the first-ever Deputy Commissioner of the Human Foods Program. Jones comes to the FDA with intimate knowledge of the food program having served on the Reagan-Udall Foundation’s Expert Panel that reviewed and made recommendations for the program in 2022.

"The FDA is in a position to produce robust scientific data that evaluates the efficacy and safety of kratom, which can help guide regulatory oversight," said Matthew Lowe, Executive Director of the GKC. "When this research is made public, it will bring much greater certainty to the question marks that the FDA has had in relation to kratom's risk profile. These findings could be an industry and consumer game changer." 

In a positive demonstration of its commitment to risk-prioritization strategy and policy, the FDA last year appointed Jones. He will oversee areas involving human foods for the FDA. Overall, according to food and beverage market trade Food Navigator, the FDA will "pursue access to accurate information that is easy to understand and transparency into how FDA evaluates food safety." The February 2024 article also quoted Kimberlee Trzeciak, FDA Commissioner for Policy, Legislation and International Affairs: "FDA are doing as much as we can to be more transparent and to provide sufficient assurance that the decisions we are making are science-based."

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia, where its leaves have long been used as a mood booster and energy enhancer. Despite being used traditionally in Southeast Asia in global form for centuries, kratom's regulatory status and safety are debated in countries around the world, including the U.S., where it is now available in various forms such as ground leaf, extracts, and isolates.

As noted at the recent 3rd Kratom Symposium, the scientific community strongly encourages further research on the various forms of kratom to help firmly establish, clarify, or dispel inaccuracies. The FDA’s recent leaf kratom Single Ascending Dose (SAD) study and upcoming Human Abuse Potential (HAP) are critical components of the clinical research needed in this space.

The SAD study aims to learn about the safety, pharmacokinetics (what the body does to the substance), and pharmacodynamics (what the substance does to the body) of leaf Kratom.1 This SAD research will help determine the optimal dose range for further clinical development by identifying the maximum tolerated serving and assessing kratom's effect at various serving levels. Additionally, the single ascending dose data will provide valuable data on leaf kratom’s safety profiles, guiding subsequent dose selection for further clinical trials and public statements on kratom. Initial SAD results are expected to be released in late 2024.

The FDA has also released a request for proposal for Human Abuse Potential (HAP) research. The HAP research will evaluate kratom through controlled laboratory studies and observational research, which can provide critical insights into its addictive properties and abuse liability, informing regulatory decisions on how kratom should be adequately regulated in the U.S.

"By conducting robust research in these areas, the FDA can contribute to a more evidence-based understanding of the various forms of kratom's risks and benefits," said Lowe. "Altogether, clinical data will facilitate informed policymaking and regulatory oversight, which we believe will benefit kratom consumers across the country."

About the Global Kratom Coalition

The Global Kratom Coalition (GKC) exists to protect and expand access to leaf-based kratom around the world. The organization represents the interests of advocates committed to positive change benefiting consumers. The organization supports education and the development of kratom science, which is central to the GKC’s mission—to empower individuals worldwide with access to safe and responsibly sourced kratom products by advancing scientific research and sensible regulation.

The GKC operates on five key values:

• Access: The belief that individuals should have a choice as to how they look after their health, informed by the latest unbiased information available.
• Education: Providing accurate, evidence-based information about kratom (including on our website), allowing consumers to make informed decisions.
• Advocacy: Serving as a united voice for kratom consumers worldwide, seeking fair and sensible regulations that prioritize consumer safety, freedom of information, and good sourcing and manufacturing practices.
• Community: Fostering a global group of enthusiasts, experts, vendors, and advocates to promote the benefits of kratom and fight for informed and responsible use.
• Responsibility: Promoting the responsible use of kratom and encouraging vendors to adhere to strict quality and safety standards so that consumers have access to products that are safe, well-manufactured, and appropriately labeled.

Please follow us at:

Website: https://globalkratomcoalition.org

Twitter: @kratomcoalition 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/globalkratomcoalition

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/globalkratomcoalition

Media Contact

Matthew Lowe

mlowe@globalkratomcoalition.org

Media Contact

Matthew Lowe
mlowe@globalkratomcoalition.org