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Leap Years, a trailblazer in NAD+ supplements for dogs, is excited to announce the #TakeTheLeap campaign which urges people to open their hearts and homes to aging dogs over 5 years old in honor of Senior Pet Adoption Month. For those who #TakeTheLeap (and provide proof of adoption), Leap Years will send a free month of their innovative, clinically proven daily chewable supplement which works at the cellular level to slow down aging in dogs, enhancing vitality, activity, and cognitive function.

“Senior dogs only have a 25% adoption rate as compared to 60% for younger dogs and are at greater risk of health issues or euthanasia,” says Dr. Ginny Rentko, Chief Veterinary Medical Officer at Leap Years. “Leap Years is committed to ensuring dogs lead healthier, happier lives. That is why we are encouraging people to take the leap and adopt a senior dog as a part of our mission to redefine the way we care for aging dogs.”

To further support pet owners in their commitment to their dogs' well-being, Leap Years is offering a 50% discount on the first month of the subscription using the code TRYLY50 at checkout. This limited-time promotion allows more pet parents to experience the transformative benefits of Leap Years' NAD+ supplement.

“The human-animal bond runs deep, especially as dogs age. Our goal with #TakeTheLeap is to celebrate these connections and encourage second chances,” says Dr. Rentko.

Leap Years invites everyone to visit leapyears.com for more information on the #TakeTheLeap campaign, how to get your free bottle and the innovative ways the brand is changing the aging game for dogs.

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

About Leap Years

Leap Years is dedicated to enhancing the lives of dogs through its innovative Daily Chewable Supplement System. Clinically tested and proven, Leap Years' formula works at the cellular level to slow the physical and cognitive signs of aging in dogs, bringing more engagement, vitality, and mental fitness to our beloved pets.

Media Contact

Arianna Finger

arianna@gcw.agency

Media Contact

Arianna Finger
arianna@gcw.agency

Today, an alliance of industry leaders, scientists, academics, and advocates formally announced the formation of The Kratom Coalition (TKC), a nonprofit organization to advance kratom science and global regulations to ensure that consumers worldwide have access to safe kratom and kratom products. TKC aims to advance regulatory policy and advocate for the industry’s business interests as well as consumer interests on a global scale.

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia, where its leaves have long been used as a mood booster, energy enhancer, and mild pain reliever. Indonesia supplies approximately 95% of kratom consumed globally and its cultivation supports the livelihoods of more than 250,000 Indonesian farmers.

Although kratom has a long history of safe use in Southeast Asia, and millions of people around the world—including veterans, pain patients, and those with mental health needs—say that kratom helps relieve stress, pain, and symptoms of opioid withdrawal (among other uses), there is still much that is not known about kratom from scientific and consumer perspectives. Many misconceptions, based on myth and outdated science, have held back regulatory reform that would allow consumers to access safe and responsibly manufactured kratom products.

In 2021, when the World Health Organization considered making kratom a controlled substance at the international level, the WHO's Expert Committee on Drug Dependence concluded that there was “insufficient evidence to recommend a critical review of kratom” or its main psychoactive alkaloids, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine.

"It is our goal to enhance knowledge and understanding of kratom, a botanical that millions of Americans, and millions more globally, consume to maintain their general wellness and live better lives," said Matthew Lowe, Executive Director, The Kratom Coalition. "Using reliable facts and research, responsible industry players and other experts will make clear kratom’s benefits and common-sense regulations for sourcing, manufacturing, labeling, and dosing."

That is why education and supporting the development of kratom science is central to TKC’s mission, which is to empower individuals worldwide with access to safe and responsibly sourced kratom products by advancing scientific research and sensible regulation.

TKC 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.

To learn more about The Kratom Coalition, visit https://www.thekratomcoalition.org or follow on Instagram, Facebook, and X (Twitter).

Media Contact

Matthew Lowe

mlowe@thekratomcoalition.org

+27 76 424 6177

Media Contact

Andreas Biebl
abiebl@me.com

United Children's Music Project (UCMP) is thrilled to announce Brenda Feliciano and Paquito D'Rivera as its distinguished honorees for "A Night on the Hudson," on Wednesday, November 29 at 7 p.m. at Weehawken’s Chart House (1700 Harbor Boulevard).

"This year, we are so proud to honor multiple GRAMMY Award winners Brenda Feliciano and Paquito D'Rivera, two extraordinary artists whose commitment to music has made a profound impact around the world," said Melina Garcia, Founder and Executive Director of UCMP.

"Brenda Feliciano, a prominent figure in the music industry and two-time Grammy award winner, is a great inspiration to our young musicians," said UCMP founder Garcia. 

Born in Puerto Rico, Ms. Feliciano is a gifted singer/actress who has performed in theater and classical and jazz music. Along with husband Paquito D’Rivera, Feliciano received GRAMMY Awards for Best Latin Jazz Album ("Song for Maura" and "Panamericana Suite"). Feliciano performed and was associate/executive producer on many of D'Rivera recordings. She is the Vice President of Greenbug Productions and has managed D'Rivera’s career for decades. Feliciano is also on the Board of Trustees of WBGO Radio.

"World-renowned saxophonist/clarinetist and composer Paquito D'Rivera is not only a distinguished artist uniquely mixing Latin jazz and classical music," said Garcia, "but also an advocate for the transformative power of music in young lives."

The Cuban-born bandleader and resident of North Bergen, NJ is a 15-time GRAMMY winner and founding member of the legendary GRAMMY-winning Cuban ensemble, Irakere. Seeking asylum from Cuba while on tour with Irakere in Spain, D'Rivera came to the U.S., Dizzy Gillespie invited him to perform with his United Nations Orchestra—and the rest is history. Throughout his career, D'Rivera has recorded and performed with a who’s who of jazz, Latin, and classical greats, including Gloria Estéfan, Yo-Yo Ma, Lalo Schifrin, Herbie Mann, Tito Puente, McCoy Tyner, Nancy Wilson, and many others. D'Rivera is the recipient of countless awards including the 2005 National Medal of the Arts, a Jazz Masters Award from the National Endowment for the Arts, and a 2022 Latin Grammy Trustees Award.

"Recognizing Brenda Feliciano and Paquito D'Rivera is a perfect match for UCMP," said Garcia. "They are both New Jersey treasures and their presence will serve as a source of inspiration for the children and families we serve."

Since 2012, UCMP has provided Hudson County children and youth with access to low-cost orchestral and choral music education, free instruments, and invaluable performance opportunities in the NJ/NY metropolitan area.

"A Night on the Hudson" will celebrate UCMP's 11-year journey and its profound impact on the lives of countless urban Hudson County kids. During an evening featuring live music, a breathtaking view of Manhattan's sparkling skyline, delectable hors d'oeuvres, and drinks, attendees will also enjoy performances by UCMP's Chamber Orchestra and surprise musical guests. UCMP thanks Ponce Bank for being a generous Bronze Sponsor of this annual fundraiser.

To buy tickets and for event details, please visit www.ucmusicproject.org.

About United Children's Music Project (UCMP)

United Children’s Music Project (UCMP) is a nonprofit organization that has been instrumental in transforming the lives of underserved children and youth in Hudson County through the power of music.  For more information about UCMP, please visit www.ucmusicproject.org.

Media Contact

Judith Bro

info@ucmusicproject.org

201-228-0341

Media Contact

Admin UCMP
admin@ucmusicproject.org

The National Health Care Anti-Fraud Association (NHCAA) has announced that Robert Mays, Staff Vice President for the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) at Elevance Health, has been elected chair of the NHCAA Board of Directors for 2024. The election took place during the Annual Business Meeting of NHCAA’s Membership Forum on November 6, 2023. Mays will succeed Jonnie Massey, Senior Director of the Special Investigations Unit at Blue Shield of California as Board Chair on January 1, 2024.

Commenting on the election of Mays, NHCAA Chief Executive Officer Louis Saccoccio said, “Bob has been a determined and tireless champion of NHCAA for many years. His enthusiasm for anti-fraud work is infectious and seemingly boundless. He shares his knowledge and expertise freely, benefiting a generation of our field’s newest anti-fraud professionals. His work as a faculty member for both NHCAA’s Annual Boot Camp program and the AHFI Prep Course is essential to those programs’ success. The Association will be in very good hands as we enter the year ahead.”

Bob Mays joined the NHCAA Board of Directors in September 2016, assuming a vacated Board seat. In the interceding seven years he has demonstrated proven leadership on the Board. His participation in NHCAA’s strategic planning  process in 2017 and again in 2020, was vital. Mays knows NHCAA well, and his lens toward innovation helped to clearly envision NHCAA’s future. 

Mays has served as a speaker at dozens of NHCAA programs and events, beginning in 2006.  His passion for anti-fraud education and the advancement of the profession is undeniable. He has also served on many NHCAA committees, often as Chair. Examples include the Anti-Fraud Management Survey Committee, the Accreditation Committee, the AHFI Practice Analysis Advisory Committee, the Education & Training Committee, and the Annual Training Conference Planning Committee.

In his role with Elevance, Mays leads more than 550 associates investigating medical and pharmacy fraud, waste, and abuse (FWA) in support of the company’s Commercial, Medicaid, and Medicare business. With three decades of management experience, he advances excellence in operational execution with a range of innovative strategies that leverage data mining and analytic capabilities in the detection and prevention of health care fraud.

The Elevance SIU, led by Mays, conducts thousands of investigations annually, protecting company assets, its membership of affiliate health plans, and federal, state, and commercial clients. Under his leadership, multiple fraud investigative teams were consolidated, resulting in a 470% increase in savings for the company.

Before joining Elevance Health, Bob was a consultant to health care payers on fraud operations, advising how to lead multi-site operations, run large teams, and manage multi-million-dollar budgets. Prior to his work in the health care arena, Mays spent 20 years in law enforcement and retired as the Deputy Chief of Police for the Dover, Delaware Police Department. During his tenure there, he oversaw all aspects of the department including coordination of joint operations with the DEA, FBI, IRS, ATF, and U.S. Secret Service.

In addition to serving on the NHCAA Board of Directors, Mays sits on the National Antifraud Association Board (NAAB), as well as on the Executive Board of the Healthcare Fraud Prevention Partnership (HFPP).

Mays received his Master of Science in Public Administration from Wilmington University and earned his bachelor’s degree from Delaware State University. He is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy and is active with its non-profit organization—the FBI National Academy Associates (FBINAA). He has earned his Accredited Healthcare Fraud Investigator (AHFI) designation from NHCAA, is a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) and a recipient of the FBI Directors Award for distinguished public service in health care fraud.

The election of Bob Mays as NHCAA Board Chair was announced in conjunction with NHCAA’s Annual Training Conference in Dallas, Texas, held November 6-9, 2023. The Annual Training Conference is the premier event recognized as the nation's leading health care anti-fraud forum for more than 1,200 public- and private-sector health care anti-fraud professionals.

About the National Health Care Anti-Fraud Association

Founded in 1985, the National Health Care Anti-Fraud Association is the leading national organization focused exclusively on the fight against health care fraud and abuse. NHCAA’s members comprise more than 90 private health insurers and more than 250 public-sector law enforcement and regulatory agencies having jurisdiction over health care fraud.

Media Contact

Leigh McKenna

lmckenna@nhcaa.org

Media Contact

Leigh McKenna
lmckenna@nhcaa.org

The Kratom Coalition, along with the Indonesian Kratom Farmers Association and the American Kratom Association, commends Indonesian President Joko Widodo for meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden on Monday, November 14th, where President Widodo made an appeal to President Biden to maintain the free trade of kratom shipped from Indonesia to the United States as a part of the trade discussions between the two countries.

The meeting comes on the heels of General TNI (Ret.) Dr. Moeldoko formally asking the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to lift Import Alert 54-15, which broadly restricts the shipment of kratom from Indonesia to the United States. The alert constitutes a proxy ban on the substance, harming not just U.S. consumers but Indonesian farmers, their families, and the environment.

Kratom and its harvesting support the livelihood of more than 250,000 Indonesian farmers, most of whom live in remote areas in the Borneo rainforest where there are no other options for earning a living. An examination of economic alternatives to replace kratom farming (prompted by persistent threats like the FDA’s alert) revealed that converting the land area to palm oil production is the only viable option—requiring widespread deforestation that carries with it negative environmental impacts (increased temperatures, flooding, and forest fires, as well as reduced rainfall) and subsequent health consequences.

“Because 97% of U.S. kratom imports originate from Indonesia, the FDA’s alert will have an enormously harmful impact on Indonesian farmers who rely on kratom production for their livelihoods. It will also impact American consumers, who rely on kratom to relieve anxiety, manage pain, and treat symptoms of opioid withdrawal,” said Matthew Lowe, Executive Director, The Kratom Coalition. “In light of these considerations and the potential consequences to growers and their environment, we hope the Administration takes President Widodo’s appeal seriously and reverses this decision. A more productive and prudent approach would be to create a set of federal guidelines regulating the industry.”

The Kratom Coalition endorses the call to action put forward by Dr. Moeldoko, Chief of Staff of President Widodo. In a letter to the FDA issued on September 29, Dr. Moeldoko requested the lifting of the import alert, while proposing measures that would ensure the safety and quality of kratom products, and align with FDA standards. Such measures include the implementation of gamma radiation sterilization on raw materials, and independent laboratory testing to verify compliance with minimum standards for microbiological and heavy metal contamination.

While it has not been determined exactly how many people in the U.S. consume kratom products, a 2021 study identified approximately 2 million users, while the American Kratom Association, using Indonesian growers’ reports on exports, claims that 11 to 15 million Americans consume kratom. According to the Botanical Education Alliance, the industry contributes $1.13 billion to the U.S. economy.

About The Kratom Coalition

The Kratom Coalition’s mission is to empower individuals worldwide with access to safe and responsibly sourced kratom products while pushing forward scientific research and understanding surrounding the plant. Education is central to that mission, along with advocating for responsible regulation and funding research to advance the world’s knowledge about the potential benefits and risks associated with kratom.

To learn more about The Kratom Coalition, visit https://www.thekratomcoalition.org or follow on Instagram, Facebook, and X (Twitter).

Media Contact

Matthew Lowe

mlowe@thekratomcoalition.org

+27 76 424 6177

Media Contact

Andreas Biebl
abiebl@me.com

As the official prelude to the Art With Me festival, MOOON.PARTY is set to redefine Miami Art Week. This inaugural event, scheduled for December 6, 2023 at the Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel in South Beach, represents a groundbreaking fusion of art, music, fashion, and space exploration, realized in collaboration with NRVLD.

Musical Odyssey

The event's heartbeat is its extraordinary music program, featuring a lineup of house DJs. Anticipated highlights include the global premiere of Brayden Pierce's "Capture the Moon (MOOON.PARTY Mix)" and performances by renowned DJs such as Knoll Doll, Matt Caines, Dude Skywalker, and DJ UZO.

Artistic Vanguard

The art showcase at MOOON.PARTY transcends boundaries, collaborating with Space Blue and the historic Lunaprise Moon Museum, and bringing them to Miami with the vision of Miami territory partner BitBasel. These exhibits are poised to embark on a celestial journey as part of the lunar missions in 2024.

A Canvas Beyond the Stars

A highlight of the event includes all participants in a "live art installation documentary," destined for the Lunaprise Moon Museum aboard a SpaceX mission aligned with NASA’s 2024 schedule.

Visionaries at the Helm

Co-founders Kelly Max and Brayden Pierce share their insights:

Kelly Max remarks,

"At MOOON.PARTY, we're creating a cultural lodestar. It's a fusion of extraordinary talents and brands, coming together for a celebration that transcends Earth's boundaries. This event is more than a festival; it's a landmark in cultural history. The moon doesn’t judge, the moon looks at all of us the same."

Brayden Pierce adds,

"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 to compassion and kindness.  MOOON.PARTY is more than a celebration. It symbolizes a new chapter for human culture existing beyond Earth."

A Coalition of Creative Powerhouses

• Founders: Modernist founder Kelly Max and Soundromeda founder Brayden Pierce
• Miami Production: NRVLD
• Territory: BitBasel
• DJs: Knoll Doll, Matt Caines, Brayden Pierce, DJ UZO, Kate Moon, Dude Skywalker, unannounced top acts
• Sound Bath: BORN I
• Shows: Romeo Hunte, Jupiter by Brooke Jay, Nikki Nyers
• Legacy: Lunaprise (The Moon Museum)
• Archival: SpaceBlue (Moon Museum Curator)
• Culture: Art With Me festival
• Talent: Miami DJ Academy
• Experiences: MetaBurnett, AlphaA.io, High Caliber Events, ThrillKicker
• Documentary: BinghamX, Thomas Trail, Dan Galway

A New Epoch in Cultural Celebrations

Under the leadership of Kelly Max and Brayden Pierce, MOOON.PARTY combines elite talent, diverse partnerships, and innovative marketing strategies, setting a new standard in cultural events.

Join Us in This Celestial Celebration

MOOON.PARTY invites you to be part of this historic event, marking a new era of cultural expression and artistic exploration.

Tickets can be purchased at https://link.dice.fm/MOOONPARTY1

About MOOON.PARTY

MOOON.PARTY is an innovative festival at the convergence of music, art, and space exploration, uniquely positioned to influence major global events like Art Week Miami, Coachella, F1, and the World Cup. For more information, please visit https://www.mooon.party.

Media Contact

Sylvie Barnett

hello@mooon.party

Media Contact

Mooon Party
hello@mooon.party

404 Media, known for their commitment to groundbreaking journalism, has teamed up with BuySellAds in a strategic partnership to fuel 404 Media’s growth through a robust ad sales program. With a shared vision of enhancing the digital advertising experience, the collaboration aims to deliver value to advertisers and publishers alike. 

404 Media's goal is to establish a sustainable, responsible, reader-supported technology media business, while BuySellAds specializes in facilitating simple, contextual advertising sponsorships that connect brands with niche audience verticals such as developers, creators, and more.

In the month since its launch, 404 Media has broken numerous national news stories and has been leading the conversation with human-centric storytelling about artificial intelligence, consumer rights, hacking and privacy, and surveillance.

"Partnering with BuySellAds will help us achieve our long-term goal of building a sustainable media company that aligns the interests of our employees, readers, and our impactful journalism," said Jason Koebler, cofounder of 404 Media.

Both companies are committed to driving original, investigative and excellent journalism alongside beautiful ads.

For more information about this partnership or to inquire about digital advertising opportunities, please contact matthew@buysellads.com.

About 404 Media

404 Media is a journalist-owned digital media company exploring the way technology is shaping—and is shaped by—our world. We bring you unparalleled access to hidden worlds both online and IRL through investigative reporting, blogging, and breaking news. At 404 Media you’ll read stories you can’t find anywhere else written by journalists who are leading experts on their beat. Learn more and subscribe at www.404media.co.

About BuySellAds

At the intersection of top-tier brands and premium publishers, BuySellAds is reshaping the contextual advertising arena. Their extensive toolkit empowers advertisers to access a plethora of opportunities, ensuring impactful audience engagement. Publishers, in turn, are equipped with efficient strategies to monetize their digital assets, from websites to newsletters and podcasts. Explore more at buysellads.com.

Media Contact

Todd Garland
todd@buysellads.com

Today marks the auspicious debut of the Kava Coalition, a nonprofit organization that protects consumer access and promotes kava, a culturally significant plant native to the Pacific Islands.

Kava, derived from the root of the Piper methysticum plant, has been used for thousands of years in traditional ceremonies in the Pacific Islands and is revered for its calming effects, offering a natural remedy for occasional stress and anxiety. Stress and anxiety are two of the biggest problems the world population faces. Kava is nature's best remedy for combatting stress and anxiety—better than sugar, alcohol, and other substances that come with a litany of social and physical side effects.

The global proliferation of kava has been hindered by regulations that often reflect outdated perceptions rather than current scientific consensus. Misconceptions about its safety profile, fueled by early studies with flawed methodologies, led to restrictive measures and even bans in several countries. These restrictions have impacted the economic potential of kava-producing nations and limited consumer access to this wonderful plant.

In order to preserve and enable access to kava to consumers worldwide, a concerted group effort led by kava stakeholders is needed to change existing regulations to better align with contemporary scientific insights, opening the door for kava's rehabilitated status on the global stage.

Kava Coalition's goal is to bring the benefits of kava to a global audience while preserving and honoring its cultural significance to the Pacific Island people. Kava Coalition’s mission is greatly supported by stakeholders across the entire industry, as evidenced by the following statements:

"Kava is a safe and revered plant throughout the Pacific Islands for relaxation and sharing with friends,” said Chris Kilham, author of "Kava: Medicine Hunting in Paradise." "The Kava Coalition is wisely and thoughtfully engaged in promoting the proper, healthy, and beneficial use of kava, and I enthusiastically support that mission."

"As a stakeholder who has been involved in every aspect of the kava industry for the past 15 years, it's a breath of fresh air to finally have a Kava Coalition led by industry stakeholders committed to moving the modern kava industry forward," said Tyler Blythe, a kava bar owner and vendor.

Kava represents a cornerstone for many Pacific Islands' economies, with an estimated value surpassing $200 million annually. This crop supports the livelihoods of thousands, fostering economic stability and growth. As demand for wellness products escalates globally, kava is a key export, enriching local agriculture and invigorating the Pacific economies.

The Kava Coalition invites industry participants, legislators, and consumers to be part of this significant endeavor. Their collective effort seeks to ensure that kava's rich history and cultural significance are protected and enhanced, with its benefits accessible to a global audience.

For more information about Kava Coalition and its mission, please visit https://kavacoalition.org.

Media Contact

Andreas Biebl
abiebl@me.com

Travelers never stand still for long. This is an industry of dynamic change, one always evolving and adapting to the latest innovation, fashion, or cultural shift. While it is impossible to know exactly what tomorrow will bring, Amadeus' position at the heart of the travel ecosystem gives unparalleled insight into the future.

Using the latest propriety data, industry-leading insight, and expert analysis from across the organization, Amadeus here explores what might be in store next year in its annual Travel Trends research. Identified are five developments that aim to create more meaningful travel experiences for the traveler, economy and planet.

Daniel Batchelor, Vice President, Global Corporate Marketing & Communications at Amadeus, says:

“After a period of recalibration and reassessment over the past few years, we are beginning to see a host of new ideas bear fruit across our industry. Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) will continue to exert a growing influence across the sector during 2024, while electric taxis are finally poised for take-off. Doing what we love, be it traveling to see our favorite music acts or using new tools to follow in the footsteps of digital influencers, will also drive bookings next year, while airlines continue to reshape their offering to respond to changing tastes. There is much to look forward to, and Amadeus will be working alongside our partners from across the travel ecosystem to drive change for the traveler, wherever we can.”

Intelligent Concierge 

Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) is adding tremendous value to the online travel planning experience for consumers, as search and advice become hyper personalized and more intuitive. Instead of selecting filters to fine-tune a search on a metasearch site or online travel agency (OTA), travelers can simply provide a brief to a chatbot in the same way you would a human advisor. For example, a new ChatGPT plug-in from Expedia acts like a virtual travel assistant, listening to customer needs and delivering instant hotel and itinerary recommendations, with links to book.

The next generation of GAI-powered customer service will be delivered with greater patience and empathy, reducing the workload of employees to deal with the bulk of after-sales servicing and customer review management, giving them the bandwidth to provide the human touch on more specialist issues. 

Agents of Influence

Social media has become a powerful force during the inspiration phase of a trip. 

For younger consumers (Gen Z and Millennials), trust in influencers is growing, while trust in friends, family and review sites dip according to research done by Morning Consult [1]. Even Google's own data points to TikTok and Instagram challenging its dominance of search among Gen Z consumers [2].

At the same time, a new shift is occurring—with influencers not simply inspiring trips but becoming facilitators of direct bookings through their channels. Influencers, such as Ana Hernández Sárria, travel photographer Rafael Fernandez Caballero, travel blogger the Blonde Abroad, yoga and movement coach Sjana Elise, and full-time traveler and content creator, Alyssa Ramos, are designing and hosting their own group trips.

The rise of so-called “Agents of Influence” is being facilitated by e-commerce marketplaces such as Thatch, Luxury Travel Hackers and TrovaTrip, which Inc ranked number 236 out of 5,000 of the fast-growing companies in the US in 2023. This technology allows influencers using Instagram, YouTube and TikTok, for example, to share a booking link directly on their profile page and process payments.

Business Luxe-Lite

With ever-more travelers wanting to fly at the front of the plane, there is an opportunity to offer more affordable and accessible “unbundled” business class fares.

In 2019, Emirates was one of the first airlines to launch “special” business class tickets, with no lounge access, restricted seat selection and no upgrade abilities. Qatar Airways followed, unveiling a Business Class Lite fare, with passengers asked to pay extra for lounge access and date or route changes, while they also earn fewer Avios/Qmiles.

At the other end of the scale, airlines are also installing more spacious “luxe” business class seats in row one that are only available to a limited few. Examples include JetBlue’s [3] Studio on the A321LR and the new Upper Class Retreat Suite from Virgin Atlantic.

Music Tourism

After the social isolation of the pandemic, when bands and musical artists were grounded for months, a boom in concerts and festivals has this year tapped into a desire for connection. The trend is expected to accelerate as we look toward 2024.

In the summer of 2023, half a million fans flocked to Coachella in California, which brought in $1.5 billion to the local economy [4]. General admission passes for the festival will start at $499 in 2024.

Taylor Swift will also continue touring in 2024—and continues to influence global travel.  According to a recent media alert from Amadeus, which has analyzed flight searches around performance dates in the Asia Pacific region, there is a correlation between bookings and the dates of her concerts. Amadeus research shows that with the return of live concerts approaching pre-pandemic levels, Australia is gearing up for a tourism boom. Shows in Melbourne and Sydney in February 2024 have had a “very significant impact” on booking volumes to Australia, with an average week-over-week growth of 446%.

Electric Skyways

As cities are more congested and air pollution is more prevalent, a potential solution to fossil-fuel-powered transportation will be the emergence of skyways that allow flying taxis, electric vertical take-off, and landing (eVTOL) aircraft and other kinds of electric aircraft to provide lower emission air travel options, both within urban areas, to satellite airports, cross-country and between islands.

It may seem very futuristic but in the US, Joby Aviation intends to start commercial eVTOL flights from 2025 and has signed agreements to work with Delta Air Lines and Japanese airline ANA, which wants to operate e-taxi flights Expo 2025 in Osaka. Also, Volocopter recently collaborated with Tampa International Airport to have the first urban air mobility test at a large U.S. airport of an eVTOL and is planning to hold air taxi flights in the state of Florida.

To learn more about Amadeus and how we, alongside our customers and partners, put travelers first, check out this page: https://amadeus.com/en/about.

About Amadeus 

Amadeus makes the experience of travel better for everyone, everywhere by inspiring innovation, partnerships and responsibility to people, places and planet. Our technology powers the travel and tourism industry. Inspiring more open ways of working. More connected ways of thinking, centered around the traveler. Our open platform connects the global travel and hospitality ecosystem. From startups to big industry players and governments too. Together, redesigning the travel of tomorrow.

We are working to make travel a force for social and environmental good. A collective responsibility to protect and improve the people and places we visit, ensuring travel continues to make positive contribution to our world. We apply innovation to meet new needs, to solve real challenges. Our truly diverse global workforce, made up of 150 nationalities, is passionate about travel and technology.

We are an IBEX 35 company, listed on the Spanish Stock Exchange under AMS.MC. We have also been recognized by the Dow Jones Sustainability Index for the last 11 years.

Amadeus. It’s how travel works better. Learn more about Amadeus at www.amadeus.com.

Footnotes:

[1] https://www.cnbc.com/2023/09/20/more-than-half-of-gen-zers-think-they-can-easily-make-a-career-in-influencing.html

[2] https://www.businessinsider.com/nearly-half-genz-use-tiktok-instagram-over-google-search-2022-7

[3] https://www.jetblue.com/flying-with-us/mint

[4] https://inevent.com/blog/marketing/coachella-2023-tips-for-event-planners.html

Media Contact

Niveen Saleh
nsaleh@fireoth.com

The Congregational Church of Christian Fellowship (CCCF), a church known for its years of social justice and action, global music tradition, and diverse community, today announced that that it will hold its First Responder and Caregivers Appreciation Day on Sunday, November 19 at 10:00 a.m. The church is located at 2085 S. Hobart Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90018. All are welcome, there is no need to make a reservation or call, and there is plenty of free parking available on the CCCF lot. 

The worship service is dedicated to honoring law enforcement, firefighters, medical personnel, Red Cross personnel, caregivers, and their families who have tirelessly served the community. Following the service, a fellowship will be held to foster a sense of unity and gratitude. CCCF member David Burwell, Fire Inspector for the City of Los Angeles along with Clif Johnson, Union Bank (ret.), and others head up the Brothers in Christ (BRIC) planning committee for this special worship service.

Recognizing the immense contributions and sacrifices made by first responders and caregivers, CCCF aims to provide a platform for these individuals to be acknowledged and appreciated. The worship service serves as an opportunity for the community to come together and express gratitude towards those who selflessly serve the City of Los Angeles. CCCF believes that by honoring these dedicated individuals, it can inspire others to engage in acts of kindness, compassion, and service.

As a church with a rich history of social justice and a renowned music tradition, CCCF understands the importance of fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The church's commitment to social justice aligns with its mission to create a welcoming environment for individuals from all walks of life. This commitment is reflected in the diverse body of believers that make up the congregation, mirroring the multicultural city of Los Angeles itself.

According to James K. McKnight, Senior Pastor of CCCF, "We are thrilled to host the First Responder and Caregivers Appreciation Day. It is a way for us to express our gratitude and support for the dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to keep our community safe and cared for. We hope this event will inspire others to recognize and appreciate the invaluable contributions of first responders and caregivers."

Looking ahead, CCCF remains committed to serving the community and promoting social justice. The church will continue to fulfill its mission to "honor God, develop Christians, connect people, and love everybody." CCCF invites all individuals to join their mission and contribute to creating a more just and harmonious society.

For more information about CCCF, email office@christianfellowshipla.org, visit https://www.christianfellowshipla.org or call 323-731-8869.

Media Contact

Lura Ball
vassie@oascla.org

Identified by Landscape Architect Magazine as an "Industry Mover and Shaker," The Wright Scoop –  Sylvia Hoehns Wright, has launched a newly published book "Landscape Gardening with CARE" and is hosting an art exhibit of her botanical art during the Hanover Book Expo held on November 11, 2023. For details of this event, visit: http://www.hanoverbookfestival.com/. To acquire copies of Wright's newly released tips and strategies book, visit https://www.lulu.com/spotlight/syhwright or query most well-known book distributors.

During the Hanover Book Expo, Wright hosts a first for public display of her botanical art. Wright is also scheduled to share in workshop format tips and strategies for acquiring market share and public visibility.

Why should you attend?

“The Wright Scoop – Sylvia Hoehns Wright,” says Nicole M. Bouchard, Editor-in-Chief of The Write Place at the Write Time, “through sharing her wordsmith tips and strategies enables an opportunity for all to acquire an organic voice, become recognized as a unique industry presence, and brand. For a brand should be a natural, organic evolution of you or your company extending to each outward facing component you have of your business (and your affiliates) in the public sphere."

About The Wright Scoop

The Wright Scoop – Sylvia Hoehns Wright has blogged for Build Green TV and provided speeches and workshops for national and international conferences such as the All-Cities Congressional City Conference held in DC and PLANET’s Green Industry Conference held at Louisville, Kentucky. To view details of her activities and/or acquire a copy of her books, visit www.thewrightscoop.com.

Media Contact

Sylvia Wright
syhwright@gmail.com

Munich-based 4screen, the company behind the world's first driver interaction platform, today announced the appointment of David Moore as Chairman of its Board of Directors, Jeffrey Kohl as Head of U.S. Operations, and Jean-Philippe Costa Mota as Head of European Operations.

Moore is a visionary leader with a career spanning over four decades at the nexus of media, technology, and advertising. With a track record in founding digital ad startups and holding senior executive positions at WPP, Moore’s experience and growth-centric vision will be critical to shaping 4screen’s global expansion.

“The fact that 4screen has locked up this in-screen car real estate with a variety of top manufacturers gives them such a great platform for moving forward,” said David Moore.

Leveraging their deep industry expertise in the mobility space, Jeffrey Kohl and Jean-Philippe Costa Mota are joining 4screen with nearly two decades of combined experience from Waze, a subsidiary of Google.

Kohl and Costa Mota have significant expertise in U.S. and European markets and will be instrumental in propelling growth and building key partner relationships with manufacturers and brands in their respective markets.

"We are thrilled to welcome David, Jeffrey, and Jean-Philippe to the 4screen family. They each bring expertise that is not only relevant but also rooted in visionary and bold thinking that will help us create content that produces exceptional experiences for our audiences worldwide," said Fabian Beste, CEO and co-founder of 4screen.

About 4screen

4screen is the world's first driver interaction platform that connects businesses with on-the-go customers, in real-time, directly through the car screen. As the pioneer of in-car marketing, 4screen is integrated into the top automotive brands such as Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Skoda, providing businesses with unparalleled access to millions of drivers across six countries. For more information, visit www.4screen.com.

Media Contact

Caitlin Kelly
ck@eznewswire.com

DRYWORLD Brands Inc. (OTC PINK: IBGR) is pleased to announce it has partnered with ProFound Sports and ASE Representation to make one of the biggest investments by a brand into high school, college, and university student-athlete NIL (name, image, likeness) deals with the planned signing of athletes across multiple sports including football, basketball, hockey, track and field, lacrosse, cheer and beach volleyball.

The investment is a result of the NCAA’s Interim NCAA Policy effective as of July 1, 2021 allowing student-athletes to commercialize their name, image and likeness (NIL Rule). This article highlights how the new policy will “change college athletics as the world knows it”.

The deals are part of the newly launched DRYWORLD Ambassador Program, whereby all athletes who sign are compensated through shares in the public company, making them owners of the brand they represent. Providing each athlete with real world financial experience in how to trade stocks, and generate an online revenue stream through the affiliate commission and the possibility of custom product lines the athletes can sell to their fanbase.

The first wave of NIL deals, as a result of the partnership between ProFound and ASE, to be announced features six university and college athletes that are making waves in their respective sports being among the first athletes to secure brand deals under the new NIL policy. 

Sofia Chepenik

• Bio: Sofia Chepenik, a standout lacrosse player at the University of South Florida, before transferring last year, earned All ACC Freshman Team and ACC Player of the Week honors. As a high schooler, she was a 2x All American and recipient of the esteemed Jackie Pitts Award by USA Lacrosse. Passionate about women's empowerment, Sofia leverages NIL opportunities to amplify her cause and she's thrilled to collaborate with DRYWORLD, a company championing the significance of women's sports. 
• Links: Sports Business Journal, Local News Channel, USA LAX Magazine
• Quote: "I love how comfortable and flattering the apparel is. The clothing is not only great quality but super stylish as well."
• Instagram: @sofiachepenik 
• TikTok: @sofiachepenik 
• Shop Sofia's Look: Support Sofia's athletic and academic pursuits by using the referral code "s0fia" to get 10% off your purchase of the CoreD Reversible Jacket, CoreD Shorts, and CoreD T at dryworldshop.com. 

Morgan Cheripko

• Bio: Morgan is a former D1 lacrosse player that comes from a large family of athletes in Maryland. She is an avid weightlifter who loves to craft her own workouts and push her limits. Currently in Charleston, South Carolina, Morgan loves taking her Dogue de Bordeaux “Lulu” on sunset walks on the beach and enjoying free time with friends. She is extremely passionate about personal wellness, taking care of others, and is currently in school to be a physician assistant. 
• Quote: "It's not just about looking good, it's about feeling unstoppable. From sunrise workouts to sunset chills, this is more than just gear; it's a lifestyle."
• Instagram: @tallgirlinafitworld 
• TikTok: @tallgirlfitness
• Shop Morgan's Look: Support Morgan's athletic and academic pursuits by using the referral code "TALLGIRL" to get 10% off your purchase of the HauteD Victory Sports Bra, and CoreD Shorts at dryworldshop.com. 

Makenzie Steele

• Bio: Across all of her social media platforms, @goodfoodgoodrun, her mission is to promote “do what you love, and love what you do :)”. Her passions lie within running, cooking, and faith, so that's what she enjoys sharing! She takes great pleasure in creating and posting healthy recipes to support a balanced lifestyle, all while offering her followers a glimpse into her journey as a dedicated student athlete in cross country and track at Clemson University. 
• Links: Business Insider 
• Quote: "DRYWORLD gear is some of the comfiest workout clothes I have ever worn!! I love the unique designs, cute colors, and of course the sleek material. So excited to be partnering with a brand whose clothing I genuinely adore."
• Instagram: @goodfoodgoodrun  
• TikTok: @goodfoodgoodrun 
• Shop Makenzie's Look: Support Makenzie's athletic and academic pursuits by using the referral code "GOODFOODGOODRUN" to get 10% off your purchase of the HauteD DK Strap Back, and CoreD Shorts at dryworldshop.com. 

Holland Methe

• Bio: Holland Methe was a D1 cheerleader at Florida Gulf Coast University for her first three years of college. Going into her senior year at FGCU, she has prioritized her studies in health science as she intends on pursuing occupational therapy once she graduates. 
• Links: Loot Mogul podcast, Loot Mogul article 
• Quote: "I absolutely love wearing the DRYWORLD clothes when being active. They are lightweight, comfortable and perfect for lifting or playing sports!"
• Instagram: @hollandmethee  
• TikTok: @hollandmethee  
• Shop Holland's Look: Support Holland's athletic and academic pursuits by using the referral code "hollandm" to get 10% off your purchase of the HauteD Victory Sports Bra, and HauteD DK Legging at dryworldshop.com. 

Caleigh Haetten

• Bio: Caleigh is a D1 beach volleyball player. She studies psychology and plans on working in sports psychology to help athletes improve their mental health and performance.
• Links: Loot Mogul podcast, Loot Mogul article 
• Quote: "My mindset is that looking great = feeling great = playing great. DRYWORLD has allowed me to perform at my best because I feel my best."
• Instagram: @caleigh_h  
• TikTok: @caleigh.haetten  
• Shop Caleigh's Look: Support Caleigh's athletic and academic pursuits by using the referral code "cjhaetten" to get 10% off your purchase of the HauteD Triple Cross Sports Bra, and CoreD Shorts at dryworldshop.com. 

Andie Harding

• Bio: Andie Harding is cross country runner at the College of Charleston who set multiple school records through her freshman season.  She is currently a sophomore majoring in business and administration. Her goal after college is to pursue the fashion and business industry, but also has interest in the real estate market. 
• Links: All-CAA Honoree 
• Quote: "DRYWORLD makes going to class a lot more fashionable and comfortable!"
• Instagram: @andie.harding  
• TikTok: @andie.harding  
• Shop Andie's Look: Support Andie's athletic and academic pursuits by using the referral code "Andieworld" to get 10% off your purchase of the HauteD LJ Crop Tank, and HauteD DK Capri at dryworldshop.com.

These athletes are pioneers as they are some of the first among their peers in their respective sports to receive NIL brand deals, fitting in seamlessly with DRYWORLD’s "Innovation First" pioneering mindset. 

"We’re investing heavily in the future of sports," commented DRYWORLD co-CEO Matt Weingart. "These young, bright, determined athletes are tomorrow’s stars, and we want to be there to support them all the way through their journey from the dream to delivering on the world stage."

"ProFound Sports is redefining athlete management by recognizing every athlete as their own founder. Through our partnership approach, we empower our clients to pioneer their goals and passions beyond sports, encompassing ventures, marketing, and media," commented cofounder Miles Jordan. "Our commitment extends to collaborating with rising brands like DRYWORLD, who appreciate the significance of athlete ambassadors."

"This groundbreaking partnership represents a new era in athlete-brand collaborations. Our clients are not just endorsing a product; they're investing in a vision. DRYWORLD's dedication to empowering athletes aligns perfectly with our clients' values," commented ASE CEO Christian Addison. "This deal is a testament to that shared vision. It's not just a sponsorship; it's a true partnership built on trust, collaboration, and a shared journey toward excellence."

If you are interested in becoming an ambassador, please submit an application here.

DRYWORLD Shop | DRYWORLD Instagram | DRYWORLD Facebook | DRYWORLD Twitter

Contact: info@thedryworld.com  

About DRYWORLD 

DRYWORLD is a premium performance sports brand offering innovative, superior quality apparel and gear for the athlete in all of us. We build purpose-driven products that give all athletes the edge. Engineered by athletes, proven by science. Visit dryworldshop.com

About ASE Representation

Addison Sports and Entertainment (d/b/a ASE Representation) is a full-service sports and entertainment representation and marketing agency that represents talent throughout five sectors: professional football, golf, and lacrosse, NIL and the electronic dance music industry. In its first 16 months as an agency, they have signed multiple clients in each of their respective industries, broken down barriers throughout the international landscape of NIL by pursuing visa exemptions for the clients they represent, and have negotiated over half a million dollars in NIL deals. Its CEO, Christian Addison, is an Air Force veteran and NFL agent who negotiated contracts with the NFL, XFL and CFL in his first season as an agent this past year. The agency is dedicated to blending the personalized approach and relentless work ethic of a boutique agency while possessing the extensive relationships and resources of a mega agency. At ASE, they refer to their clients as family.

About ProFound Sports

Co-founder Miles Jordan, previously associated with Miles Jordan Athlete Management, is an attorney with an educational background from Wake Forest University. His strong conviction centers around the need for athletes to receive personalized attention, a departure from the norm of conventional mega-agencies. Miles has joined forces with co-founder Luis Davila, a seasoned expert hailing from the tech and venture sector, to educate and support athletes in a family office-style environment.

ProFound Sports is poised to revolutionize the way athletes pursue their passions and ambitions beyond the sporting arena. Our innovative approach ensures athletes receive the tailored attention and support they deserve, fostering a new era of athlete empowerment.

Safe Harbor for Forward Looking Statements  

This press release contains forward-looking statements and is subject to risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical fact or relating to present facts or current conditions included in this press release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements give our current reasonable expectations and projections relating to our financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance and business. You can identify forward-looking statements by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. These statements may include words such as "anticipate," "estimate," "expect," "project," "plan," "intend," "believe," "may," "should," "can have," "likely" and other words and terms of similar meaning in connection with any discussion of the timing or nature of future operating or financial performance or other events.

The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on reasonable assumptions we have made in light of our industry experience, perceptions of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors we believe are appropriate under the circumstances. As you read and consider this press release you should understand that these statements are not guarantees of performance or results. They involve risks, uncertainties (many of which are beyond our control) and assumptions. Although we believe that these forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, you should be aware that many factors could affect our actual operating and financial performance and cause our performance to differ materially from the performance anticipated in the forward-looking statements. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should any of these assumptions prove incorrect or change, our actual operating and financial performance may vary in material respects from the performance projected in these forward-looking statements.

Any forward-looking statement made by us in this press release speaks only as of the date of this press release. Factors or events that could cause our actual operating and financial performance to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

Media Contact

Matt Weingart
matt@thedryworld.com

Cordova, the celebrated name in women’s ski/snow and après fashion, proudly presents its new 2023/24 Collection. This winter season, Cordova balances technical brilliance with enduring style, all while raising the bar for sustainable luxury in ski and snow fashion.

Inspiration and Aesthetic: The collection emerges from the euphoria of plunging into the heart of nature. Each design is a reflection of the striking beauty of our planet, capturing the thrill of navigating awe-inspiring landscapes. The color palette boasts deep, vibrant tones, inspired by the diverse terrains we traverse. Every piece is a timeless fusion, blending elements reminiscent of vintage styles with forward-thinking designs.

Design and Fit: Every piece in the Cordova collection is meticulously crafted, offering a synergy of elegance and functionality. Our designs transcend trends, fusing heritage ski style with contemporary global consciousness. From petite to XL, Cordova celebrates every form, ensuring impeccable fit and unmatched comfort. At Cordova.co, our size-predictor AI, powered by WAIR, makes finding your perfect fit a breeze for a stress-free shopping experience.

Technical Proficiency: Within Cordova's luxurious designs lies unparalleled technical prowess. Our garments are not only eye-catching but also brilliantly constructed, promising resilience, adaptability, and a comfort that feels almost tailored to the wearer. Cordova offers water-resistant, waterproof, and seam-sealed designs. Our tech collection is designed for the pro-athlete that refuses to sacrifice style for performance.

Creative Distinction: Spotlighting the Aomori jacket in Aura, an exclusive designer print crafted in-house. The journey involved the manipulation of organic materials in novel ways, followed by digital reworking to achieve an exquisite result. With its crafty-meets-high-tech design, the Aomori jacket in Aura is a testament to Cordova's innovative spirit and our obsession with symbiosis between woman and wild.

Sustainability and Quality: Cordova is committed to sustainability and quality, using upcycled, biodegradable fibers and engendered materials certified by BlueSign and OEKO-TEX. We collaborate with manufacturing partners that champion social responsibility, advocating for gender equity and livable wages. In partnership with GreenSpark, every purchase at Cordova's online store supports climate change initiatives.

Collection Highlights:

• Fora suit, captivating in its minimalistic design
• Apex suit, the pinnacle of tailoring for snow pros 
• Limited-edition Huracán suit, a beacon of futuristic sophistication
• Mogul jacket, a luxurious embrace of responsibly sourced down 
• Aomori jacket's magnetic closures: where style seamlessly meets convenience
• The Ploma sweater: hand-knitted, 100% merino, boldly fun and elegant

As a women-owned brand, Cordova is committed to shifting the narrative in a historically male-dominated sport, allowing women to not only participate but to lead and redefine the game.

Explore the Cordova universe online, available now with global shipping. Retail partners will be introducing the collection throughout October and early November. 

About Cordova

Cordova is a trailblazing force in ski/snow and après fashion, skillfully blending technical excellence with timeless elegance in each meticulously crafted collection. We believe that life is an exploration of paramount beauty and adventure, and our passion lies in designing apparel for women who boldly seek altitude, revel in the thrill of the descent, and savor mountain leisure without compromising style and glamour.

Media Contact

Yosef Kalfon, PR Manager

yosef@cordova.co

323-690-1885

Media Contact

Michelle Songy
michelle@presshook.com

Sightly, the leader in real-time media, marketing and intelligence, announced today that it has signed Walt Cheruk, respected digital media and marketing leader, as EVP of Growth. Cheruk will help expand the company’s media execution portfolio and escalate proliferation of its patented, award-winning Brand Mentality® platform at a time when an accelerating and ever-shifting information stream intensifies the need for reliable brand safety and contextual alignment throughout the industry.

“More and more brands and media agencies want AI-fueled solutions that provide real-time insights, planning and activation tools under one roof that are both grounded in their own unique DNA and authentically aligned with their audiences,” said Sightly CEO Adam Katz. “Walt understands the incredible potential that our platform unlocks for these organizations and has already begun to bring the Brand Mentality story to life for them. We’re pumped to have an all-star of his caliber join our team who will not only help grow our business, but our clients’ businesses, too."

Cheruk brings more than three decades of media, technology, sales and leadership experience to help guide Sightly in this growth stage. Most recently, he was Head of Agency Strategy & Insights at Flashtalking by Mediaocean. Prior to that, he served as Managing Director of Digital Strategies & Insights at Morgan Stanley, and President of Varick, an innovator and leader in programmatic media trading services.

Walt also ran digital media at Dentsu Aegis’ Carat and Vizeum agencies, driving extensive client growth, and he led ad sales and marketing teams for Hearst New Media, Discovery and National Geographic—including the digital sales and brand marketing efforts for NationalGeographic.com.

“The decision to join Sightly was easy. It came down to the two Ps—people and product,” said Cheruk. “I’m ecstatic to join this great team, led by CEO Adam Katz. They are some of the most genuine, innovative and intelligent people I’ve encountered in my career. Brand Mentality truly is a game-changing product for agencies and brands. I’m impressed with the value it provides for media teams and marketers of all disciplines that I can’t wait to help drive its expansion across our industry.”

To learn more about Sightly and the revolutionary Brand Mentality platform, please contact Walt Cheruk, walt@sightly.com.

About Sightly

Sightly is the leader in real-time media, marketing and intelligence, as driven by each brand's unique perspective, opinions and outcomes. We work with key media, news and social data partners to monitor the information pulse of our world moment by moment. Our award-winning, patented Brand Mentality platform combines this speed with brands’ mindsets and values, so they can make advertising and marketing decisions instantly and authentically without sacrificing ROI. Learn more and master the mayhem at https://www.sightly.com and https://brandmentality.ai.

Media Contact

Robert Helstrom
rocket@sightly.com

Tech Incubator at Queens College, an organization supported by the New York City Council as a startup incubator for entrepreneurs, announced today the initiation of the TechImpact Startup Competition in collaboration with Accompany Capital. The application for the competition will be open from October 30 to November 30 and is open to all NYC startup founders. A total of $100,000 will be awarded across four categories. Each finalist will receive additional rewards, including mentorship, co-working space, or interns support.

Participants will have the opportunity to compete for a chance to win $25,000 in each of the following categories:

1. Community Betterment
2. Health and Wellness
3. Financial Empowerment
4. B2B Innovations

Visionary founders from all sectors are encouraged to apply, demonstrating their commitment to innovation and impact.

The Tech Incubator at Queens College recognizes the importance of fostering entrepreneurship and supporting tech-enabled startup companies. By providing resources and guidance, we aim to create more job opportunities and drive innovation and technology development. Our mission is to accelerate economic development in Queens, NYC, and beyond by building a collaborative and sustainable ecosystem that educates, engages, and inspires entrepreneurs to turn innovative ideas into thriving businesses.

According to Ying Zhou, the Executive Director of Tech Incubator at Queens College, "The TechImpact Startup Competition presents a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs to showcase their innovative ideas and make a lasting impact in their respective industries. We are excited to partner with Accompany Capital and support visionary founders who drive positive change through their ventures."

Looking ahead, Tech Incubator at Queens College plans to continue its mission of fostering entrepreneurship and supporting startups by providing valuable resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Through initiatives like the TechImpact Startup Competition, the organization aims to create a thriving ecosystem that nurtures innovation and fosters the growth of tech-enabled companies.

For more information about the TechImpact Startup Competition and Tech Incubator at Queens College, please visit https://techincubatorqc.com/techimpact-startup-competition or email  pitch2023@techincubatorqc.com.

Media Contact

Ying Zhou
ying.zhou@qc.cuny.edu

Bucketsquad, the media and e-commerce company started by top YouTube sports creator Jesser (Jesse Riedel), today announced the hiring of first-ever president, Zach Miller. Zach comes to Bucketsquad from Spotify where he led strategy and business development for the content business across podcasts, music, and emerging media formats. Miller will support Bucketsquad’s expansion into new revenue channels such as content subscription and retail for Bucketsquad’s apparel brand. Additional focuses include new content formats and series as well as international syndication.

The news comes on the heels of Jesser and team’s recent Streamy’s win for Sports Creator of the Year for the second consecutive year. In addition to being recognized for best-in-class content, Bucketsquad has doubled revenue annually over several years and will reach a subscribership of 17 million by the end of 2023.

“Zach is a key piece of the puzzle for us. When I first started creating content, I never could have imagined that we’d have one of the most popular sports YouTube channels with 16 million subscribers. Creating the content is the thing I love the most and bringing Zach onboard to run and grow Bucketsquad will allow me to double down on making videos. I couldn’t be happier that Zach is part of our team and I’m excited to see what we can do together with Bucketsquad,” said Jesse Riedel of the expansion. 

“This is a dream role for me. It’s really incredible what Jesse and the Bucketsquad team have built to date, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to help them take it to the next level. Jesse is the most dynamic sports creator in the market today, and the team’s success with Gen Z speaks volumes about their knowledge of the market and relationship with their audience. I’m excited to bring my experience with startups and big media across ecommerce, video, audio, subscription and licensing to help Bucketsquad diversify and grow into a next generation leader in sports media.”

In addition to expanding the executive team, Bucketsquad has also elevated Marko Preocanin to Senior Executive Producer, responsible for all creative direction alongside Jesse. Bucketsquad President Zach Miller said, “Marko is the creative glue that brings our videos to life. His presence makes a huge difference in how the process runs from initial idea to finished video, and his creative work is the secret sauce. We’re excited to see him growing within the business and taking on even more responsibility, playing a wider role within Bucketsquad in creative direction overall.”

Miller brings extensive experience in tech and media to his new role with Bucketsquad. His work has covered the film world and high-growth startups to consulting for and working within Fortune 500 media and tech companies. Throughout his career Miller has primarily been focused on helping companies bring in new audiences and expand their digital businesses. Most recently at Spotify, Miller helped scale video podcasting and develop the company's creator platform strategy. Miller joins Bucketsquad at a time when the creator economy and YouTube ecosystem are maturing and legacy media is losing market share. 

Miller said, “It’s hard to argue with where the world is headed when creators like MrBeast have businesses valued at above $1 billion. Consumers are not only spending more time with their favorite creators than legacy media brands, their passion for and loyalty to those creators is on another level. Jesse and the team are deeply committed to delighting their fans with new and exciting offerings. I couldn’t be more excited to join Bucketsquad at this pivotal moment for the business.” 

About Bucketsquad

Bucketsquad is the media company started by top YouTube creator Jesse Reidel (aka Jesser). The company oversees the YouTube video businesses for both Jesser and Jesser Reacts channels, as well as various additional products and initiatives under the Jesser brand. In 2022, the company launched Bucketsquad Apparel, a direct-to-consumer sportswear line in partnership with Garrett James, founder of popular sports/streetwear line Ryoko Rain. Bucketsquad Apparel drove over $1 million in sales in its first 12 months of operation and has been growing aggressively since launch.

Media Contact

Kara Silverman

kara@variousand.com

Media Contact

Kara Silverman
kara@variousand.com

Schreiner University of Kerrville, Texas, is the first school in Texas to reach an agreement to accept all class credits for students wishing to transfer from the Art Institute of America (AIA), which is closing its campuses in San Antonio, Austin, and Houston.

According to reporting from my mysanantonio.com, hundreds of students once enrolled with the Art Institute are now scrambling to find out where and how they are going to complete their degrees as the private university abruptly announced its shutdown in October.

“We believe this is an opportunity for institutions such as Schreiner University to offer transfer-friendly options such as linking to available financial aid, scholarships, easy access to advisors, and generous transfer credit articulation,” said Wilbert Lleses, Assistant Vice President of Enrollment. “Support such as that will help AIA students who transfer to graduate on time.”

According to Lleses, Schreiner University approached this situation with “a heart to help” the estimated 670 students who are being affected.

“After AIA announced their closing, we knew that Schreiner would be a good fit for many of their students affected by the closure,” Lleses said. “We will provide an easy path for their students to transfer credits they have already earned, and secondly we can help them finish their degree affordably”

The university stepped up by offering a pre-award $16,000 scholarship for all AIA transfer students that ends up attending Schreiner University. Application fees and essay requirements also will be waived.

According to Dr. Charlie McCormick, President, Schreiner University is committed to providing an academic pathway for these and all transfer students.

“Schreiner is delighted to invite the Art Institute students to Enter with Hope and complete their educational aspirations in a seamless and efficient manner,” McCormick said. “We know that many higher education institutions are facing difficult days; we intend to be the most welcoming of places for their students to finish their degrees.”

Any student affected by the AIA closure is encouraged to contact Admissions at Schreiner University by visiting schreiner.edu/admissions, emailing admissions@schreiner.edu, or calling 830-792-7217.

Media Contact

Holdsworth Nicholas
hnteam@holdsworthnicholas.com

Firstmark Credit Union is pleased to announce it has donated over $5,000 in school supplies to 13 school districts, following their first-ever classroom supply drive for educators.

Ranging from notebooks and pens to folders and classroom manipulatives, the donations aim to assist educators within our community in providing an interactive learning environment for their students. Rooted in education, Firstmark remains committed to carrying out the legacy established by its ten educator founders. The donations would not have been made possible without the Firstmark members, employees, and the countless people within the community who selflessly contributed to the drive.

“We are humbled by the generosity of our members, team members, and broader community who came together and showed up for our schools,” said Marisa Pérez-Díaz, executive director of the Firstmark Foundation. “We are grateful for every single school employee’s dedication toward inspiring our students. The donation of supplies is just one way Firstmark, and all those who donated, show appreciation for their tireless work.”

The supplies were distributed across 13 school districts throughout San Antonio, Fredericksburg, La Vernia, and New Braunfels, Texas, with a focus on reaching underserved communities and schools facing resource challenges. Firstmark is thankful for the opportunity to collaborate with local schools, Spurs Sports & Entertainment, and other partners to make a positive difference in the communities it serves.

To learn more about Firstmark and the ways the credit union supports the education community on behalf of its members, please visit firstmarkcu.org/foundation.

Media Contact

Holdsworth Nicholas
hnteam@holdsworthnicholas.com

Once again, Dallas FAN FESTIVAL brought some of the best and brightest icons to North Texas this fall.  With tens of thousands of die-hard fans and the pop-culturally curious alike, crowds were treated to intimate conversations with stars like Edward James Olmos, Andy Serkis, Paul Bettany, and Mira Sorvino; hundreds of unique shopping experiences; ongoing cosplay community interactions and contests; and fun for the record-breaking family attendance at this year’s most anticipated festival.  

“We couldn’t be happier to see how many of our dedicated fans come year after year because there is always something new to discover at the Irving Convention Center during Dallas FAN FESTIVAL weekend,” says Andrew Moyes, VP of FAN EXPO HQ. “We love to see generations pass down the traditions of fandom and this year amazed us with the sheer number of families who came to see their favorite characters, comics, community organizations, and even adoptable dogs at our second annual Pup Culture Adoption Event with Dallas Animal Services.”

Video recap can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-zt8tWbsEY

Now that the curtains have come down on Dallas FAN FESTIVAL, the countdown has begun for the organizers to pull off another monumental event, as FAN EXPO Dallas has announced that tickets are on sale now for the spectacular three-day event that runs from June 7–9, 2024 at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Downtown Dallas. 

Early bird pricing is available until December 14, 2023 at 11:59 p.m. CT. Early bird single-day tickets start at $24 (full price from $35), early bird 3-day passes start at $84 (full price from $110 each), and the early bird price on the Ultimate Fan Package starts at $124 (full price from $150).

“We know that our fans are eager to get their tickets secured, at the lowest price of the season, for what we already know will be an extraordinary event. Each year, we play host to more than 60,000 fans at our pop culture playground in Downtown Dallas,” says Katie Loomis, Show Manager for FAN EXPO Dallas.

To order tickets go to www.fanexpodallas.com

Details on FAN EXPO Dallas 2024

When:

• Friday, June 7 from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. (Special preview at 2 p.m. for VIP, Ultimate, and 3-Day pass holders who purchase in advance.)
• Saturday, June 8 from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
• Sunday, June 9 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Location: Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center at 650 S. Griffin St. Dallas, TX 75202

Tickets: Tickets are currently priced from $24–$124. Hours and information are available at fanexpodallas.com.

About FAN EXPO HQ

With over a million fans and counting, FAN EXPO HQ attracts pop culture enthusiasts, locally and internationally, to come together to celebrate all things fandom. Collectively it hosts nearly one million fans annually at FAN EXPO Dallas™, FAN EXPO Canada™, MEGACON Orlando, FAN EXPO Boston™, FAN EXPO Denver, FAN EXPO San Francisco, CALGARY EXPO, FAN EXPO Chicago, FAN EXPO Philadelphia, FAN EXPO Portland, FAN EXPO New Orleans, FAN EXPO Cleveland FAN EXPO Vancouver™, Toronto Comicon, Dallas FAN FESTIVAL, and EDMONTON EXPO.  The latest schedule of events is available here on their website, along with up-to-date ticket information. Discover. Celebrate. Belong.

Media Contact

Dana Cobb

FAN EXPO Dallas/The Vokol Group

dana@thevokolgroup.com

972-955-9747

Media Contact

Dana Cobb
dana@thevokolgroup.com