Consumer

Baby/Maternity Children Family LGBT Men Religion Teens Women
News Release Digital Asset Direct

Thriving During Dry January

YourUpdateTV

Dry January – kicking off the New Year by cutting out alcohol for an entire month – is a trend that more and more people are embracing each year. After indulging over the holidays, it’s no surprise that so many people hit the reset button in January. Recently, Co-Founders of Athletic Brewing Company, Bill Shufelt and John Walker, participated in a nationwide satellite media tour to discuss changing the narrative around Dry January, industry trends, and much more. A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://youtu.be/eGqAehAxn5w Athletic Brewing believes consumers shouldn’t have to “suffer” through a sober January, but instead continue to celebrate in a healthy way by substituting alcoholic beverages with delicious craft brews that forgo the booze but not the taste. “After indulging over the holidays, it’s no surprise that so many people hit the reset button in January,” said Athletic Brewing Company Co-founder Bill Shufelt. “We want to help people shift their mindset and make January into less of a sacrifice. The conversation around non-alcoholic beer has changed. It’s no longer about restricting yourself. It’s about rewarding yourself and making better choices.” The non-alcoholic beer market in the U.S. surged to $230 million in 2020. Despite the continuing pandemic, the craft non-alcoholic beer category is up over 300% year-to-date again this year (Nielsen). In just four years of operation, the company has grown from one 10,000 barrel capacity brewery headquartered in Connecticut to an additional 125,000 barrels in San Diego in 2020. In 2022, Athletic will open its third brewery, allowing them to brew more than 150,000 barrels on each, the East and West Coasts to keep up with surging consumer demand. With that level of capacity, Athletic will continue its distribution growth domestically and into new international markets Nearly 50 percent of American adults consume 0.1 drinks or less per week and Athletic offers a beverage that can be enjoyed seven days a week, at any time of day, in just about any venue or occasion. For more information, visit athleticbrewing.com About Bill Shufelt: Co-Founder, Athletic Brewing Company. When Bill Shufelt decided to get healthier and cut back on alcohol, he sought out a flavorful beer to fit his lifestyle. He soon realized there was nothing like that on the market. He wondered if he was left unsatisfied by the current nonalcoholic beer offerings, how many others like him were out there in thirsty silence? In 2017, with a community of like-minded individuals, Bill started Athletic Brewing, the first U.S. based beverage company devoted exclusively to brewing high-quality, nonalcoholic craft beer. Skepticism gave Athletic a first-mover advantage – today, the non-alcoholic beer category is the fastest-growing segment of the entire beer industry – with Athletic Brewing Company at the helm representing over 45% of the category. About John Walker: Co-Founder and Head Brewer, Athletic Brewing Company. John Walker was the Head Brewer at Second Street Brewery in 2017 when Bill invited him to re-imagine what non-alcoholic beer could taste like. It took hundreds of test batches, but the final beer was exceptional. Athletics’ beers have earned accolades throughout the industry, measuring up against full-strength beers, including three gold medals at the US Open Beer Championship 2021 and the recognition of “Craft Brewery of the Year” by Brewbound Magazine. The proprietary process developed by Athletic uses all-natural ingredients to make great-tasting craft beer that just happens to be nonalcoholic. At only 50-70 calories per can, Athletic brews fit into any occasion, so that drinkers don’t have to choose between having great beer or feeling great the next day. About Athletic Brewing: International Beer Challenge 2020 “Brewer of the Year North America,” Athletic Brewing Company is reimagining beer for the modern, active adult. Their great-tasting craft brews let you enjoy the refreshing taste of craft beer, without the alcohol or the hangover. You can enjoy them anytime, anywhere, and still be healthy, active, and at your best; it’s the very reason they started brewing them in the first place. With custom breweries on the east and west coasts, their lineup has earned accolades throughout the industry, even against full-strength beers, including the 2020 World Beer Award Gold medal for Run Wild. To top it all off, as part of the Athletic Brewing “Two for the Trails” initiative, 2% of all sales are donated to trail and park cleanups and maintenance. Additionally, as a part of their IMPACT Program, 1% of revenue goes to non-profit organizations that support positive impact and opportunity from the ground up in their communities. Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

January 13, 2022 01:30 PM Eastern Standard Time

Video

Mary’s Meals Launches New School Feeding Program in Yemen

Mary's Meals USA

Mary’s Meals, the global school feeding charity, has started a new program in Yemen. The organization currently feeds more than two million children every school day in some of the world’s poorest communities, offering children not only the sustenance of a nutritious meal, but also the chance of an education and hope for a brighter future. Working in partnership with established international nongovernmental operation (NGO), Yemen Aid, Mary’s Meals will now provide four schools in the Al Mansoora district of Aden with daily meals for more than 4,000 children. This district is particularly vulnerable as it is home to a large number of internally displaced people (IDPs) and other marginalized populations who all experience high levels of hunger. Building on Yemen Aid’s existing relationships with these communities and their leaders, Mary’s Meals successfully implemented a daily meal of a filled pita bread sandwich with fruit or vegetables for every child in school. In Yemen, poverty and conflict often keep children out of education and coercion into child labor can become a real threat. The serving of a nutritious lunch encourages children and attracts them back into the security of the classroom. Magnus MacFarlane-Barrow, Founder and CEO of Mary’s Meals, said, “Mary’s Meals always has a desire to support those in the greatest need. Given that Yemen can be described as the biggest humanitarian crisis in the world, and so many children are suffering, we are delighted to begin serving our daily school meals there – meeting the immediate need of the hungry child and, crucially, at the same time, enabling their education. We thank all those supporting our work in ways that make it possible for us to keep moving forward towards the next child waiting.” Yemen Aid was founded in 2016 by CEO Summar Nasser and a group of fellow Yemeni Americans in response to the protracted humanitarian crisis in Yemen. Mary’s Meals contacted Yemen Aid to see how a school feeding program might benefit the children in Yemen, after reading about the organization’s crucial work. Kathryn Gemmell, Program Partner Manager at Mary’s Meals International, said, “Yemen Aid has been doing invaluable work in the country for several years now and they have developed strong links with local communities. We are grateful to be able to learn from their experience and to work in close partnership with them to serve the children of Yemen.” Summer Nasser, CEO of Yemen Aid, said, “As we embark on this new relationship with Mary’s Meals, our hope is to increase support to children by tackling hunger through strategic, sustainable approaches in the education sector. The school feeding program will broaden the horizon for these students who have been losing interest in school and provide more security for parents.” Currently, Yemen Aid provides thousands of food baskets to displaced people and communities and supports thousands of malnourished children. They also provide support and advice with hygiene, health and welfare issues. Additionally, they run a number of women’s programs, supporting female farmers, supplying resources to female businesses and offering skills enhancement and psychosocial support. Background info on the Crisis in Yemen UNICEF references Yemen as the largest humanitarian crisis in the world, with around 21 million people in need of humanitarian assistance, including more than 11 million children. The escalating conflict and economic decline mean nearly 2.3 million children under five years of age are projected to suffer from acute malnutrition this year, says a February 2021 report by four UN agencies. 400,000 of these fledgling children are expected to die if they do not receive urgent treatment. Note to Editors: Interviews with Mary's Meals leadership and additional images are available upon request. About Mary’s Meals Mary's Meals is a global movement that sets up school feeding projects in some of the world’s poorest communities, where poverty and hunger prevent children from gaining an education. Mary’s Meals works with in-country volunteers to provide one daily meal in a place of learning to attract chronically poor children into the classroom, where they receive an education that can be their ladder out of poverty. Mary’s Meals began by feeding just 200 children in Malawi in 2002. Today, the organization feeds 2,058,099 hungry children every school day across five continents, in the following countries: Benin, Ecuador, Ethiopia, Haiti, India, Kenya, Lebanon, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Myanmar, Niger, South Sudan, Syria, Thailand, Uganda, Yemen, Zambia and Zimbabwe. For more information about Mary’s Meals visit: www.marysmeals.org. Follow Mary’s Meals on Facebook or Instagram. Contact Details Mary's Meals USA Paul McMahon +1 781-910-0904 paul.mcmahon@marysmeals.org Company Website https://www.marysmealsusa.org/

January 13, 2022 08:13 AM Eastern Standard Time

Image

Volatus Aerospace accelerates its Public Safety Initiative with the addition of advanced UAV Mobile Command Units

Volatus Aerospace Corp.

Volatus Aerospace Corp. (TSXV: VOL) (“Volatus”) is pleased to announce that it has partnered with Illinois-based DRAXXON to market and sell fully integrated mobile command centers configured to support drone operations in a public safety environment. Demonstrations of these Mobile Command Centers and various public safety drones will provide an opportunity for first responders to evaluate customized solutions to meet their tactical requirements. The Mobile Command Center enhances Volatus’ integrated solutions for public safety agencies. “The public safety market is rapidly adopting the use of tactical drones and the application of Drones as First Responder. We are committed to being a leading provider of turnkey solutions in this sector,” said Glen Lynch, Volatus CEO. “Mobile Command Centers provide all the components of a rapid response unit including drone communications, flight operations, and live data feeds. DRAXXON is a leading manufacturer of high-quality, specialized vehicles designed for multi-mission capabilities. Innovation and quality make them a perfect partner for our public safety initiative.” DRAXXON CEO Brock Wilkerson remarked, “Partnering with Volatus and integrating their various drones, mission control systems, and intelligence offerings with our high quality, specialized vehicle solutions, results in powerful resources for first responders.” According to Markets&Markets in their 2021 report ‘Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Market,’ the global government and law enforcement market is forecast at US$5.72B by 2026 growing at a CAGR of 17.1%. The public safety market is a targeted growth sector for Volatus. “Delivery of the first vehicle is scheduled for January 25 th and our North American roadshow will begin in March," said Dean Attridge, VP of Solutions Engineering. "We will be showcasing our fully integrated solution at the International Security Conference & Exhibition (ISC) West tradeshow.” About Volatus Aerospace: Volatus Aerospace is a leading provider of integrated drone solutions. Operating a vast pilot network with offices throughout Canada, the United States, and South America, Volatus provides enterprise and industrial solutions including training, equipment sales & support, imaging & inspection services, drone cargo solutions, design & manufacture, and research & development. With a rapidly expanding network of strategic partnerships and acquisitions, Volatus is driving the full potential of UAV technologies around the world and shaping the industry of tomorrow. Forward-Looking Statement: This news release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including statements regarding the plans, intentions, beliefs and current expectations of the Corporation with respect to future business activities and operating performance. Often, but not always, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects”, “is expected”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates”, or “believes” or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases, or statements formed in the future tense or indicating that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” (or other variations of the foregoing) be taken, occur, be achieved, or come to pass. Forward-looking information includes information regarding (i) the business plans and expectations of the Corporation; and (ii) expectations for other economic, business, and/or competitive factors. Forward-looking information is based on currently available competitive, financial and economic data and operating plans, strategies or beliefs as of the date of this news release, but involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Corporation to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such factors may be based on information currently available to the Corporation, including information obtained from third-party industry analysts and other third-party sources, and are based on management’s current expectations or beliefs. Any and all forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.Investors are cautioned that forward-looking information is not based on historical facts but instead reflects expectations, estimates or projections concerning future results or events based on the opinions, assumptions and estimates of management considered reasonable at the date the statements are made. Forward-looking information reflects the Corporation’s current beliefs and is based on information currently available to it and on assumptions it believes to be not unreasonable in light of all of the circumstances. In some instances, material factors or assumptions are discussed in this news release in connection with statements containing forward-looking information. Such material factors and assumptions include, but are not limited to: the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Corporation; meeting the continued listing requirements of the TSXV; and anticipated and unanticipated costs and other factors referenced in this news release and the Circular, including, but not limited to, those set forth in the Circular under the caption “Risk Factors”. Although the Corporation has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended. The forward-looking information contained herein is made as of the date of this news release and, other than as required by law, the Corporation disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Contact Details Volatus Aerospace Corp. Rob Walker +1 514-447-7986 rob.walker@volatusaerospace.com Company Website https://volatusaerospace.com

January 12, 2022 07:00 PM Eastern Standard Time

Image

American Home Benefit Announces New Strategic Partnership

American Home Benefit

It is with great excitement that American Home Benefit (AHB) announces a partnership with MoveEasy; a concierge for life service available through an online platform, a mobile app, voice services through Alexa & Google Home, and includes a dedicated personal assistant that helps your clients complete all of their moving and home management tasks in one place including mortgage, insurance, moving, home warranty, utilities, internet, home security, change of address and more. Move Easy and American Home Benefit share a common passion for client care and customer services. Both were born out of the innate belief that the process of moving should be enjoyable rather than complicated and overwhelming. "American Home Benefit works every day to bring a seamless and transparent suite of real estate services to companies and their employees throughout the country; partnering with Move Easy was an absolute win for us in our continued pursuit to make the real estate process more enjoyable." said Andy Sachs, founder and principal of AHB. MoveEasy's VP of Strategic Partnerships, Travis Bailey said: “MoveEasy couldn’t be happier to work with American Home Benefit, and this partnership comes at a very opportune time. In September we launched our completely redesigned User Interface, and we fully expect it to take the client experience to the next level while making it simpler for American Home Benefit clients to move and maintain their homes. Enabling clients the ability to access anything they may need as a home owner, such as finding a mortgage provider, setting up home security, utilities, internet, or finding a reputable moving service.” AHB can now offer a more robust and well-rounded offering. Mr. Bailey went on to say: “This new user interface marks the beginning of our home ownership lifetime concierge platform. American Home Benefit clients will have access to the online platform, mobile app, Alexa & Google Home integration, as well as their dedicated concierge service for anything they might need as long as they are homeowners. Furthermore, this fall we will be launching our homeownership dashboard that will include a wealth of new features for all homeowners.” Mr. Sachs added "that this partnership is the next logical step in the AHB's evolution to serve employee's evolving and continuous real estate needs from purchase through ownership and eventual sale." American Home Benefit is the no-cost benefit that connects employees to a growing network of trusted service providers that can turn stressful real estate transactions and ownership into wonderful experiences. Contact Details American Home Benefit Andy Sachs +1 475-275-0085 asachs@americanhomebenefit.com Company Website https://americanhomebenefit.com/

January 12, 2022 11:36 AM Eastern Standard Time

Love is in the Air – and the Mail – This Valentine’s Day as Loveland, Colorado Launches 76th Valentine Season

Loveland Chamber of Commerce

In Loveland, the nation’s Sweetheart City, valentine season starts now. The Loveland Chamber of Commerce, Visit Loveland, and partners have unveiled details and plans for the 76 th year of the valentine program including the Valentine Re-Mailing Program, Sweetheart Festival, group wedding, valentine beer, wine and coffee, love locks, and the Sweetheart City Race. All activities and events happen in the first two weeks of February. “This is a very special year for Loveland and this amazing program. Going into the second year of this pandemic, there is no greater time to help spread love, joy, and unity when people need it most,” said Mindy McCloughan, president of the Loveland Chamber of Commerce. “Our designs and verses this year reflect Loveland’s desire to share this honored tradition with the world and show that love is the greatest gift we can give or receive. Let’s work together to spread even more joy, happiness, and love this valentine season.” Loveland’s Valentine Re-Mailing Program The 2022 official Loveland valentine card, collector’s stamp (also known as a cachet) and postmark have been announced. The collector’s stamp and postmark will be stamped on every piece of mail that comes through the program. Loveland receives around 100,000 valentines from all 50 states and 110 countries across the world through its Valentine Re-mailing Program, the largest program of its kind. Sponsors & Volunteers handstamp the collector’s stamp and postmark onto each individual valentine that comes through the city. To get this special collector’s envelope artwork and the special 2022 postmark, send your pre-addressed, pre-stamped valentines in an enclosed, larger 1st Class envelope. Then send this envelope to Postmaster - Attention Valentines, 446 E. 29th St., Loveland, CO 80538-9998. Once received, valentines will be removed from the larger envelope and stamped before being re-mailed to its intended recipient. All international-destined mail must be received in Loveland by Feb. 2, all U.S.-destined mail to states outside of Colorado must be received by Feb. 7, and all Colorado-destined mail must be received by Feb. 9 to ensure delivery by Valentine’s Day. Northern Colorado residents can drop off their valentines now through Feb. 9 at the following Loveland locations during normal business hours: Loveland Chamber of Commerce, 5400 Stone Creek Circle Mueller Pye & Associates CPA, LLC - 762 W. Eisenhower Blvd. Independent Financial – 935 N. Cleveland Ave. Aims Community College - 104 East 4th St. Barnyard Vet & Pet Supply – 806 14th St SW Participants are encouraged to send their valentines to Loveland as soon as possible. 2022 valentine card on sale The 2022 card was designed by Chris Bierdeman. The watercolor card design features the word love in multiple languages, surrounding a globe, with the words, “Sending Love Around The World. Happy Valentine’s Day From The Sweetheart City.” The valentine card verse written by Cindy Mast is: “From the Sweetheart City around the lake come valentine wishes for you to take. May love and joy head out your way from the heart of Colorado on Valentine’s Day.” Valentine cards can be purchased online at loveland.org for $7 (which includes the card, printing, processing, and postage), and for $4.50 at the Loveland Chamber of Commerce, Loveland Visitors Center, The Bottled Olive, Colorado Coffee Company, Loveland King Soopers locations, Loveland Museum & Gallery, Rowes Flowers, and all Loveland Safeway locations. All cards purchased through loveland.org will automatically go through the remailing program. About the Loveland Chamber of Commerce Founded in 1902, the Loveland Chamber of Commerce is northern Colorado’s “driving force for business.” Comprised of more than 750 local companies, the chamber offers a vast array of educational and networking programs to help its investors, both large and small, gain the skills and resources necessary to thrive and prosper in today's economy. As a founding member of the Northern Colorado Legislative Alliance (NCLA), the chamber also serves as an advocate for business, working on behalf of entrepreneurs to lead and influence local, state, and federal policy on issues affecting the unique interests of business in northern Colorado. For more information on the Loveland Chamber, please call 970-667-6311 or visit loveland.org. Contact Details Mindy McCloughan +1 970-744-4791 mmccloughan@loveland.org Company Website https://loveland.org/

January 11, 2022 09:03 AM Eastern Standard Time

Image

Biomedical AI entrepreneur Prof. Amir Geva appointed CSO of SleepX

Appyea

World renowned machine learning and bio-feedback expert joins company to execute and lead the development of DreamIT – the company’s patented solution integrating its proprietary AI technology in a wearable data driven wristband to treat sleep apnea and snoring. SleepX, a subsidiary of AppYea (OTC: APYP) focusing on the development of accurate wearable monitoring solutions to treat sleep apnea and snoring, announced today the appointment of Biomedical AI entrepreneur Prof. Amir Geva, as its chief science officer. Prof. Geva is a world-renowned expert in the field of machine learning, with over 25 years of business leadership experience as the founder and R&D teams leader of biomedical AI companies Elminda, InnerEye and WideMed. He brings over 40 years of deep AI research, serving today as the Head of the Biomedical Signal Processing and Machine Learning Lab and as Professor at the Electrical and Computers Engineering Department at Ben Gurion University of the Negev in Israel. As of today, Prof. Geva had published 62 scientific articles, and he is Senior Member at the Biomedical Engineering and Computers of the IEEE. In the past he had served also as consultant to the Israeli Air Force and Elbit on bioelectrical signal processing. He is DSc in Biomedical Engineering from the Technion Israel Institute of Technology, and formerly a Major at the Israeli Navy. "SleepX’ is the right solution many had been waiting for", Prof. Amir Geva commented. "The company has introduced a revolutionary combination of sensor technology, data analysis and machine learning to take on the challenge sleep-training for adults and improving people’s sleep and general wellbeing. I look forward to working with the team to complete the development of the company’s product and realize its market potential." SleepX is an Israeli research and development company recently acquired by AppYea. The company had developed a unique product for monitoring and treating sleep apnea and snoring. The technology is protected by several international patents and the company plans to start serial production in 2022. The company currently focuses its activities on the development and commercialization of its flagship product DreamIT. "We are honored to have a world expert in bio-feedback and AI such as Prof. Geva joining us to lead the development of our product’s brain analysis capabilities and advance the execution of our go-to-market strategy to realize the company’s business plan", said Boris (Bary) Molchadsky, President and CEO of SleepX, and Chairman at AppYea. Contact Details AppYea Inc. Asaf Porat info@appyea.com Company Website http://www.appyea.com

January 11, 2022 08:24 AM Eastern Standard Time

Image

Kenny Clark Grows Minuteman Press Printing Franchise in McKinney, Texas

Minuteman Press International Inc

Minuteman Press in McKinney, Texas is located at 1502 W. University Drive, Suite 111. Owner Kenny Clark has owned the local printing franchise since August 2014. Operating as an essential business over the past two years, Kenny has consistently grown his sales and helped other local businesses meet their ever-changing needs for custom design, print, and marketing services. Kenny says, “We have worked hard to serve our customers with anything they have needed over the past two years and that hard work has paid off. I was born and raised in Texas, and one thing I did was remain open. I went to work every single day because I wanted to be there to answer the phone when other businesses weren’t. If you could hear the relief in their voices when I answered the phone, you would understand just how huge that personal touch and human connection was at that time.” “I was fortunate enough to remain open as an essential business, and by being there for new and existing clients at a time where they needed me most, that really was a big key to growing our business. Today, I am stronger than I was before the pandemic, and our client base is stronger as well.” -Kenny Clark, owner, Minuteman Press franchise, McKinney, Texas. With eight years of business under his belt including two years of operating under unprecedented circumstances, Kenny is able to share his insights and keys to growth for Minuteman Press in McKinney. He says, “We have many products that are in high demand, and the key to our success is that we sell ourselves through our actions. We offer speed and service, and a job done right, no matter what our clients need.” He continues, “We offer custom graphic design services with fast turnaround, which then leads to fast production of banners, signs, blueprints, business cards and stationery, and anything our clients need or want to grow their business through increased brand awareness and visibility. Direct mail has also been a growth point for us.” Why direct mail? Kenny explains, “I find printing to be one of the absolute core essentials of any marketing strategy. More than ever, we see that there are thousands of emails that get lost in the shuffle and deleted. When you have something in your hand that you can physically hold and touch, you are more likely to take a closer look at it. Emails can get swallowed up by spam filters and deleted with one click, while direct mail has that unique ability to capture someone’s attention because it’s right in their hands.” “Right now, one of my biggest clients is doing direct mail campaigns with us more than any other types of products and services. They have found that direct mail really works for them, and that Minuteman Press is the perfect local partner to help them design, print, and deliver their messages to best reach their target audience.” -Kenny Clark When it comes to marketing his business, Kenny takes a multi-faceted approach. “I tell my team all the time, we don’t just get out there and market for the sake of marketing. I like to say, ‘We quote it to win it.’ We have really focused on marketing ourselves on speed and service, and direct conversations with our clients. We are not the cheapest printer in McKinney, Texas, but if you want and need the job done right, I am your guy.” Kenny has also taken advantage of the proprietary Minuteman Press FLEX software as well as the Internet marketing resources available to him. “We used the FLEX software all of the time when quoting jobs for clients, and it’s a valuable tool to make sure we are managing pricing and production correctly. Specifically, I have been using the CSSP function that helps me see how to properly price orders for quotes based on current pricing trends. A year and a half ago, I really started bolstering our Internet marketing, and that has really paid off as well in generating new business.” “The support from Minuteman Press International has been exactly what it was promised to be. My Regional Vice President Pete Scaglione and the local field team are there for me. When I call them, they will jump through hoops to help me out. If I email the IT team at World Headquarters with a question about the FLEX software or anything else I need, I always receive quick replies that contain precise, detailed answers. We all have the same mindset, and we are all in this together.” -Kenny Clark Prior to franchising with Minuteman Press, Kenny saw his job in the electronics industry take him traveling around the world. “I had a working background in electronics, manufacturing of circuit boards, and business development. Flying everywhere was getting really old really fast and I wanted to be there for my kids. Minuteman Press helped me do that.” When asked about additional reasons Kenny chose to buy Minuteman Press in McKinney, Kenny answers, “At the end of the day, the cost to buy a Minuteman Press franchise was reasonable and cost less than most other franchises. The majority of franchises have the philosophy of ‘the more you make, the more we take.’ Essentially, you are punished for having a successful franchise, but that is not the case with Minuteman Press International. Their royalty cap was the deciding factor for me in joining Minuteman. I am allowed to keep more of my well-earned money and invest it back into the business as I see fit.” Kenny continues, “The other thing that other people don’t realize is the benefit of having low turnover due to the fact that we hire skilled workers. I looked into the fast food industry, and there just seemed to be too much turnover due to the nature of the work as well as other headaches that would carry over into weekends such as staffing as well as food supply.” He adds, “Not having to worry about the business on weekends and having that freedom is huge. You can’t put a price on that.” For those who are researching businesses including Minuteman Press, Kenny’s advice is this: “Ask yourself if you see yourself running the business you are buying Also, are you willing to do the work? The biggest mistake people make is that they open the business and hope that clients will just walk through your doors and automatically come to you. If you don’t get out and market, if you aren’t hustling, you are not going to make it. You have to want it and follow the business model, get out there and go get it. All of your marketing efforts will come back to you and pay off. I can attest to that.” For more information about Minuteman Press in McKinney, Texas, visit their website: https://minuteman.com/us/locations/tx/mckinney. Learn more about #1 rated Minuteman Press franchise opportunities at https://minutemanpressfranchise.com. Contact Details Minuteman Press International Chris Biscuiti +1 631-249-1370 cbiscuiti@mpihq.com Company Website https://minutemanpressfranchise.com

January 10, 2022 10:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

Image

Bonhams launches The Market – an Innovative Online Platform – in the US

The Market by Bonhams

The Market by Bonhams, the record-setting and fastest-growing online car and motorcycle marketplace, is launching on January 24 across the US, with the first sales at themarket.bonhams.com going live the same day and closing on January 31, 2022. Combining traditional auction practices with an innovative, exciting digital platform, The Market has a proven track record in the UK and Europe for delivering results, service and quality since its inception in 2016, achieving an average sell-through rate of 90%. No Buyers fees and a flat 5% Sellers’ Commission – the lowest in the industry – are the key benefits offered by The Market by Bonhams to US clients from launch. The cars, their custodians and customers will receive the same 5-star service which has been delivered for the past five years. The Market by Bonhams US will be headed by General Manager Caroline Cassini supported by US-based consigners and the wider Bonhams motoring team. Sellers with The Market by Bonhams US pay a commission (capped at $5000) and receive a comprehensive, professional auction listing at no extra cost, written by a team of motoring experts, depicting all aspects of the car. An auction can be set up in a few days and is live for seven days. HOW IT WORKS The bidding process is simple: would-be bidders register with their credit card details and are immediately able to bid. Automatic bidding is offered where bidders submit their maximum bid in advance. Winning bidders pay a 5% deposit to The Market by Bonhams and then agree payment terms with the seller before collecting their new vehicle. A key attribute of the platform is its transparency, with all auction results being listed and remaining visible on the website. Early consignments to The Market by Bonhams US range from an all-American Pontiac GTO to quintessentially British classics such as a 1952 MG TD and 1964 Rolls Royce Silver Cloud III Continental, as well as young-timers such as a 1999 Mitsubishi 3000 GT VR4 and contemporary collectibles including a 2019 Porsche GT2 RS. Launching The Market by Bonhams in the US meets a growing demand for the platform among buyers and sellers across North America. It marks a natural progression following the success of the platform in the UK, where it has doubled its hammer value over the past year, and Europe where it was launched in August 2021. 2021 STAR LOT In July, The Market by Bonhams sold an ultra-rare metallic blue 1989 Ferrari F40 for a record-breaking $1,325,482 (£1,000,500), the first seven-figure result for an online platform in the UK and Europe. BONHAMS MOTORING 24/7 The introduction of The Market in the US marks the latest development in Bonhams Motoring’s "always on" strategy, with its highly successful and prestigious live sales at Amelia Island, Quail Lodge and Scottsdale, complemented by the platform’s daily online auctions, allowing clients to buy and sell collector cars on a 24/7 and global basis. Caroline Cassini, General Manager of The Market by Bonhams US, said: “The Market by Bonhams has a proven track record for delivering results, service and quality, backed by Bonhams’ heritage and history. We are looking forward to providing US collectors with this premier service.” Maarten ten Holder, Managing Director of Bonhams Motoring, said: “This is a natural progression for our Bonhams Motoring business to further expand into the US. The launch marks a key milestone for our "always on" approach, offering cars at all price points, around the clock, to collectors wherever they are in the world. “Prospective clients want to choices when working with auctioneers and we are now able to provide these options, from live sales to online timed auctions and daily online sales via The Market. There is clearly an appetite from buyers and sellers for this service and the launch marks the next step in our motoring strategy.” END EDITOR’S NOTE Maarten ten Holder, Managing Director of Bonhams Motoring, and Caroline Cassini of The Market by Bonhams, are available for interview. Please email requests to Lynnie.farrant@bonhams.com or press@bonhams.com Images available: https://bonhams.box.com/s/qp845usrkq5sd1p87bplbtjwanvrt1g7 ABOUT THE MARKET BY BONHAMS The Market by Bonhams was launched in 2016 and is based near Oxford in the UK. The Market helps people buy and sell their classic vehicles through innovative, curated auctions via its state-of-the-art, high security online platform and app. The Market was conceived from a passion for classic cars and motorcycles as well as for technology and the crossovers that exist between the two. This crossover is disrupting the classic car auction market by providing the highest levels of transparency, accessibility and security as well as highly competitive buyers’ and sellers’ fees. The Market charges a seller’s commission of just 5% (plus tax) with no fees for buyers. For more details, please visit themarket.bonhams.com ABOUT BONHAMS Bonhams, founded in 1793, is one of the world's largest and most renowned auctioneers, offering fine art and antiques, motor cars and jewellery. The main salerooms are in London, New York, Los Angeles and Hong Kong, with auctions also held in Knightsbridge, Edinburgh, Paris, San Francisco and Sydney. With a worldwide network of offices and regional representatives in 22 countries, Bonhams offers advice and valuation services in 60 specialist areas. For a full list of forthcoming auctions and details of Bonhams specialist departments, please visit bonhams.com Contact Details Caroline Cassini caroline.cassini@bonhams.com Company Website https://themarket.bonhams.com/en/

January 10, 2022 05:55 AM Pacific Standard Time

Image

Luxury Outerwear Brand Cape de Coeur Moves into the Metaverse with 1st NFTs

Cape de Coeur

Vancouver-based elevated, technical outerwear brand Cape de Coeur, in tandem with digital artist Tony Murray & renowned creative director Isabel Martinez (Isabelita Virtual), is excited to announce the launch of their capsule collection of three, one-of-one edition NFTs, linked to three of their Guardian capes - their signature cape design. Cape de Coeur, Murray, and Martinez worked together to visualize, design and produce a special digital artwork video, titled “The Guardian”, that they then used to create the unique non-fungible tokens. Bettina Mueller Reichl - Founder and Creative director of Cape de Coeur - met Isabelita Virtual during the last months of 2020. Bettina had been a dedicated follower of Isabelita's work, admiring different projects and partnerships Isabelita had participated in with some of Bettina’s favorite brands and publications, such as Delpozo, Viktor & Rolf, and Vogue Italia. Bettina reached out to Isabelita in hopes of partnering on a digital activation that could introduce Cape de Coeur to the world and build awareness around it. Isabel loved the concept, innovation, technology, and creativity behind Cape de Coeur. She understood what Cape de Coeur is at its core: a high fashion luxury brand, designing waterproof capes. She wanted to produce a piece of digital art that would break boundaries, as the product does itself - through technology. She suggested contacting Tony Murray, a digital creator with specific expertise working in the fashion industry, to design a ‘universe’ that represents all that is Cape de Coeur. Murray’s efforts resulted in a surprising piece, complete with a surreal outdoors built into a futuristic world, where even among the 3D ‘women’ featured in the video, the rain remains the main character. It starts raining - but the rain doesn’t touch the women, as if they are protected by invisible, unseen umbrellas. “The first thing that struck me about Cape de Coeur was the striking silhouettes of the capes. I wanted to model the capes in the realm of the unreal, but in a virtual environment that highlighted and didn’t distract from or compete with the capes...The design of the environments was quite minimal, letting the reflective materials and the dynamic skies do the work of spotlighting and quite literally reflecting the capes. The Cape de Coeur pieces are truly the merging of fashion and function with waterproof performance fabric, so the images of water droplets beading up on ther surface sparked the use of orbs throughout the scenes. And of course, rain became an important graphic element." - Tony Murray, Digital Creator Cape de Coeur, Tony Murray and Isabelita Virtual’s digital art video aims to ‘conquer’ the weather in an experimental way. The characters in the work are identifiably ‘women’ but remain ambiguous in all other characteristics - a purposeful choice to help build a connection between the brand and the viewers. ‘ The Guardian ’ is a futuristic and romantic universe, a unique piece of artwork linked to an exclusive product - Cape de Coeur’s first NFTs. “Cape de Coeur is a perfect example of a contemporary brand that talks to its audience in a contemporary way. Today’s most advanced brands are fully engaged through technology. Most of them use it to develop new products, but some also to build culture and share values with their audiences. Cape de Coeur is a disruptive label that brings fresh air to the rainwear landscape, merging reason and emotion.” - Isabelita Virtual, Creative Director The values of the Cape de Coeur brand - innovation, creativity, romanticism, technology, futurism - immediately aligned with the values of Tony and Isabelita’s respective worlds. Bettina, Tony and Isabelita wanted to create a piece of ‘communication’- but also a piece of digital art, one that would make a long-lasting impact. All three creatives share the same ambition - to break boundaries in their work through technology. All Cape de Coeur pieces are available to purchase online, directly from the brand’s website. Prices range from $995-$2,195 Click HERE for more information on ‘The Guardian’ NFTs For more information on Cape de Coeur, please visit https://capedecoeur.com and @capedecoeur ABOUT Cape de Coeur: Cape de Coeur is luxury technical outerwear designed to redefine your wardrobe and your lifestyle. The brand is the brainchild of Austrian-born designer Bettina Mueller Reichl, who has lived and breathed European design culture, having worked in the luxury design industry there for most of her life. She has more than 20 years of experience in technical apparel design, working with the most renowned international design teams of technical performance wear. Crafted in the brand’s proprietary wind, rain, and snow-proof CoeurTex™ fabric, Cape de Coeur capes blend functional freedom with uncompromising beauty. The focus on the cape silhouette comes from the brand’s emphasis on fashion meeting function – as capes allow the wearer to shield handbags from rain and snow, and wear statement sleeves, boxy silhouettes, and easy-to-wrinkle pieces underneath their outerwear. ABOUT Isabel Martinez / @IsabelitaVirtual – Creative Director: Isabel Martinez is a Creative Director with over 12 years helping brands to establish meaningful relationships with their audiences by explaining stories that connect with them. She has collaborated with brands and cultural institutions such as Tiffany & Co, Delpozo, Hermès, Coach, Apple, Sony, Vogue, Other Stories, Tous, Viktor&Rolf, Dior, Inditex, Louis Vuitton Foundation and The Moscow Ballet. In 2015 she moved to NYC to try new things in digital environments, such as blending VR with Photography & developing digital content for luxury brands in collaboration with W Magazine. In 2018 she was named the WEBBY AWARD HONOREE for BEST SOCIAL CONTENT in ART & CULTURE on Instagram. She was the only individual to achieve this recognition along with two of the biggest cultural institutions in the world, The Metropolitan Museum and LACMA Museum. Isabel is the first Spanish woman featured in the Times Square Midnight Moment - the longest and largest public digital exhibition, synchronized on electronic billboards throughout Times Square. Other names featured in the past years were Andy Warhol, Yoko Ono, Björk, JR or Alex Prager. She is part of the new creator’s economy- she is a featured artist on Superrare and Foundation NFTs Marketplaces. In 2021 she joined Meta (Facebook) to work in the luxury vertical at Creative Shop Paris. ABOUT Tony Murray / @to.mu.lab – Digital Creator, 3D Artist: Tony Murray is a San Francisco-based designer, digital creator and fashion vet who’s creating some of the most vital and vibrant 3D style available, pointing the way forward for a new discipline that borrows from the past but is never backward. Rooted in physical garments, Murray’s latest work shows that the most open-minded among the traditional fashion community are finding fertile new ground in software, creatively and commercially. Contact Details OGAKI Amber Cardullo ACARDULLO@OGAKIDIGITAL.COM Company Website https://capedecoeur.com

January 06, 2022 09:01 AM Eastern Standard Time

Image

1 ... 164 165 166 167 168 ... 198