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DistroTV Emerges as Largest, Independent FAST in the Streaming Market

DistroTV

DistroTV, the independent, free streaming network for globally-minded audiences, today announced that it is now home to more than 150 live streaming channels. This marks the network’s emergence as the largest, independent, free, ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) platform on the market. DistroTV operates under parent company DistroScale and caters its growing, multicultural content lineup to a diverse line up of passionate viewers in the US, Canada, and the UK. “We are proud to emerge as the largest, independent provider of free, ad-supported streaming content to our growing and diverse viewer audience,” said Navdeep Saini, founder and CEO of DistroScale, parent company to DistroTV. “As an emerging FAST network and one of the few remaining independent streaming services, our mission remains to cultivate content that covers a broad spectrum of diverse topics that will spark our viewers’ unique passions and interests.” DistroTV is a natural extension to DistroScale’s long-standing expertise in video platforms and advertising. DistroTV provides today’s brands an opportunity to build a direct-to-consumer relationship with DistroScale and its network partners. Since its launch in 2019, DistroTV has seen rapid growth concerning its breadth of content and global audience figures. In the last six months, viewership quadrupled and total watch time multiplied eight times over. The streaming platform focuses on building a robust network that delivers news, entertainment, music, sports, and lifestyle programming to audiences globally. DistroTV has built a strong programming lineup of popular film and television channels, including Reelz, Law&Crime, Qello Concerts by Stingray, Magellan TV, People TV, and TD Ameritrade, among others. Additional independent channels include some of the following: Kweli TV, which spotlights the rich history and global diversity of the Black community; Canela TV, featuring Spanish programming; Latido Music, the leading channel for Latin music; BritAsia Live for British Asians around the globe; Filmeraa, short-form movies and television in Indian and Korean; Venus TV, which features popular Bollywood movies, culture, and more. “Over the past decade, Brit Asia TV has become the leading voice for British Asians in the U.K. but we know that there is a high demand for our programming outside of the country,” said Tony Shergill, CEO, Brit Asia TV. “With DistroTV, we’re reaching a wider audience in the U.S. and Canada and creating excitement for our programming with new audiences, which is an important part of our growth strategy.” “Music is universal and something that people are turning to for enjoyment and escape, especially during these times” said Mathieu Péloquin, Senior Vice-President Marketing and Communications of Stingray. “DistroTV is a part of our strategy to build a network of partners to live stream or offer our programming on demand ensuring that we’re growing and reaching new audiences.” To become a viewer, visit https://www.distro.tv or install DistroTV on Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, iOS or Android. About DistroTV DistroTV is the largest, independent, free, ad-supported streaming television service on the market. Launched in 2019 by parent company DistroScale, the platform caters to a multicultural, rapidly expanding, globally-minded audience of passionate viewers in the US, Canada, and UK. Satisfying the growing demand for premium video content in multiple languages, DistroTV delivers premium video content from producers globally across North America, the UK, Bollywood, Latin America, China, Southeast Asia, and growing. With more than 150 channels plus thousands of Video on Demand (VOD) shows, DistroTV cultivates content that covers a broad spectrum of topics to connect with people’s passion points around Entertainment, Lifestyle, Sports, News, Documentaries and International Content in live, linear and video-on-demand formats. DistroTV is available on the web, as well as through Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, and iOS and Android devices. About DistroScale DistroTV is the first direct-to-consumer offering from DistroScale, a technology company founded in 2013 and known for providing a global clientele of thousands of media properties with the industry’s most comprehensive video platform for web, apps, and streaming. DistroScale is an all-in-one solution providing infrastructure, content delivery, curation, analytics and a full suite of monetization options. Video enabled by DistroScale reaches more than 250 million visitors per month. The company is headquartered in San Francisco, CA. To become a DistroTV viewer, visit www.distro.tv. More information on DistroScale & DistroTV is available at www.distroscale.com. Contact Details Kite Hill PR Mackenzie Gavel +1 631-739-5716 mackenzie@kitehillpr.com Company Website https://www.distro.tv

January 27, 2021 12:01 AM Eastern Standard Time

ULTATEL Integrates Session Border Controller into Microsoft Teams to Create the Ultimate Unified Communications Experience

ULTATEL, LLC

ULTATEL, a leading provider of cloud-based phone systems for businesses of all sizes, today announced a seamless integration with Microsoft Teams through the use of ULTATEL’s Session Border Controller (SBC) technology. This technology is certified for Microsoft Teams Direct Routing and allows organizations to deliver secure, real-time communications on almost any private or public cloud environment without compromising scale and performance, and provides the convenience of being able to continuously control and monitor communications regardless of location. Direct Routing for Microsoft Teams integrates seamlessly with ULTATEL Cloud, SIP-trunks and legacy telephony infrastructures, enabling users to make and receive external phone calls on any device using Teams. “This integration with Microsoft presents a significant market opportunity for ULTATEL customers and partners to achieve business growth and maximize their collaborative communications during a time when this is more important than ever before,” said ULTATEL Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Amr Ibrahim. “We’re proud to have our solution certified for Direct Routing for Microsoft Teams and remain committed to supporting and building the workplace of the future.” Key benefits of ULTATEL’s integration with Microsoft Teams include: Highly Productive Workforce – Teams have continuous access to calling, chatting, meeting, and collaboration from anywhere, on any device in a fully integrated Microsoft Teams environment. Connect the World to Teams – Utilizing ULTATEL’s telephony-grade calling plans equips SMS capability within Microsoft Teams. A fully-integrated Microsoft Teams environment connects teams to make inbound and outbound calls through the international phone network, allowing users to add callers to their conference bridges and meetings. Reduce Costs and Get High Quality – In addition to saving on equipment by utilizing Microsoft Teams as a Smartphone, organizations can expect savings on the solution while also maintaining a high-quality 99.999 percent reliability by leveraging ULTATEL’s network. Leveraging ULTATEL’s SBC, users have peace of mind that their Microsoft Teams integration will work exactly how they want, and with the highest level of security and customer support possible. To learn more about cloud based phone service for business from ULTATEL, visit ultatel.com. About ULTATEL ULTATEL is a leading provider of cloud-based phone solutions. Through its Clarity unified communications platform, companies can have all of their voice, video, fax, SMS and audio conferencing services on one affordable system. The platform includes more than 40 enterprise-grade features, helps companies operate from single or multiple locations seamlessly using desktop phones, softphones or mobile apps while integrating with Microsoft Teams, contact centers and CRMs. ULTATEL’s vision is to completely change how companies conduct business by delivering the most comprehensive suite of unified cloud-based telephony services, dramatically improving responsiveness, increasing productivity, enhancing globalization efficiencies, and reducing operating costs so that businesses can most effectively compete both today and in the future. Visit ultatel.com. Contact Details Trust Relations Noe Sacoco +1 408-340-8130 ultatel@trustrelations.agency Company Website https://www.ultatel.com/

January 26, 2021 11:30 AM Eastern Standard Time

TeamSnap Named Best Club Management Software for 2021

TeamSnap

TeamSnap has been named as the best sport management software of 2021 by Digital.com, a leading independent review website for small business online tools, products, and services. TeamSnap’s industry-leading platforms have been evaluated based on its management features and integration capabilities including its registration and payment solutions along with its new Health Check COVID-19 screening tool that has been used for close to 10 million completed screenings since its launch in August. "We are incredibly proud to have created an efficient and easy-to-use platform that millions of sports organizations and teams trust and rely on everyday," said TeamSnap co-founder and CEO Dave DuPont. "This independent industry recognition is a testament to the efforts of our determined product team. As sports events return over the coming months, we are heartened to know that TeamSnap will be helping thousands of community clubs, leagues and associations get back up and running.” Digital.com’s research team has conducted a 40-hour assessment of more than 70 different software solution providers. TeamSnap was assessed for its capacity to manage schedules, payments and communications along with its integration into other external platforms. To access the complete list of best club management software, please visit https://digital.com/club-management-software/. -30- ABOUT TEAMSNAP Since its formation in 2009, TeamSnap has been single-mindedly focused on taking the work out of play. 24 million coaches, administrators, players and parents rely on TeamSnap’s powerful and easy-to-use tools for communication, scheduling, payment collection and registration, organizing every sport and group activity in the world. For more information, visit https://www.teamsnap.com/. Contact Details Greg +1 416-458-3591 greg.mcisaac@teamsnap.com Company Website https://www.teamsnap.com/

January 25, 2021 12:00 PM Eastern Standard Time

COMCAST AND EL CENTRO DE LA RAZA LAUNCH NEW DIGITAL LEARNING LAB AND WIFI-CONNECTED LIFT ZONE IN SEATTLE

Comcast West Division

Comcast Washington and El Centro de la Raza announced today the launch of a WiFi-connected Lift Zone and opening of a new lab that will support online learning for students, families and community groups. The new Roberto Maestas Digital Learning Lab and upgraded WiFi coverage will help El Centro ensure support for hundreds of local families. The Comcast Lift Zone gives El Centro robust Wi-Fi coverage to support programs, including Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program (DACA) and immigration services, housing and economic support, distance learning, youth curriculum, emergency services, and adult education classes. Comcast’s Lift Zones include free hotspot connectivity and access to hundreds of hours of educational and digital skills content while bringing the community El Centro serves needed WiFi connectivity. The Roberto Maestas Digital Learning Lab offers a safe, welcoming multi-use space and technology center that supports distance learning and community based virtual programming. The lab is furnished with $50,000 in new technology from Comcast for recording, streaming and remote instruction, which enables El Centro to run their programming virtually until it is safe to return to in-person instruction. Through this new virtual programming, El Centro is able to connect with even more households than ever before, allowing people from across the state to remotely attend classes from the safety of their home. In the future, the lab will be open to other local nonprofits for use, as well. “The Roberto Maestas Digital Learning Lab and expanded WiFi connectivity will play a vital part in supporting the people we serve throughout our local and virtual community. The lab will provide access to resources that empower our youth to participate in their education and actively learn in a digital environment. We will be able to provide technology training to help adults secure living wage jobs and support retraining efforts for those in industries impacted by the pandemic. We look forward to creating new programming that will better the lives of families in our community during the pandemic and beyond,” said Estela Ortega, Executive Director of El Centro de la Raza (The Center for People of All Races). When the pandemic hit, El Centro made the commitment to continue its operations and serve the diverse community that relies on its support, as well as provide a safe and secure place for families and youth. Without this commitment, many families, immigrants and first-generation Americans would not have access to important services they need. Comcast announced a multiyear program in fall of 2020 to equip different locations in Washington with these WiFi-connected “Lift Zones.” Working with its network of nonprofit partners, Comcast is providing robust WiFi hotspots at safe spaces in King, Snohomish and Spokane Counties that are expected to help tens of thousands of students and families. Additional Lift Zones sites are currently under consideration across Comcast’s footprint statewide, with the goal of having 40 installed in the first part of 2021. The Lift Zone initiative provides free connectivity inside partner community centers for the next three years. “The pandemic has put students and families at risk of being left behind. There is a need in our community for more programs that utilize technology and internet resources that families of all races and backgrounds can benefit from at this time, regardless of their personal or economic status,” said Rodrigo Lopez, Regional Senior Vice President of Comcast Washington. “We are proud to be able to help this important organization that we’ve partnered with for more than a decade serve people remotely and offer needed internet resources. This new lab and WiFi connectivity will help El Centro continue its important work, at a time when it is needed most.” Lift Zones are a part of Comcast’s ongoing commitment to help connect at risk families to the Internet so they can fully participate in educational opportunities and the digital economy. The program complements Comcast Internet Essentials, which is a comprehensive, affordable Internet adoption program. Since 2011, more than 85,000 households in Washington state have been connected to high-speed Internet in their home thanks to the program. Internet Essentials offers access to free digital literacy training resources, the option to purchase an Internet-ready computer for less than $150; and low-cost, high-speed Internet service for $9.95 a month plus tax. The program is structured as a partnership between Comcast and tens of thousands of school districts, libraries, elected officials, and nonprofit community partners nationwide. For more information, or to apply for the program in seven different languages, please visit www.internetessentials.com or call 1-855-846-8376. Spanish-only speakers can also call 1-855-765-6995. About El Centro de la Raza As an organization grounded in the Latino community of Washington State, it is the mission of El Centro de la Raza (The Center for People of All Races) to build the Beloved Community through unifying all racial and economic sectors; to organize, empower, and defend the basic human rights of our most vulnerable and marginalized populations; and to bring critical consciousness, justice, dignity, and equity to all the peoples of the world. We envision a world free of oppression based on poverty, racism, sexism, sexual orientation, and discrimination of any kind that limits equal access to the resources that ensure a healthy and productive life in peace, love and harmony for all peoples and our future generations. Learn more at www.elcentrodelaraza.org. About Comcast Corporation Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company with three primary businesses: Comcast Cable, NBCUniversal, and Sky. Comcast Cable is one of the United States’ largest video, high-speed internet, and phone providers to residential customers under the Xfinity brand, and also provides these services to businesses. It also provides wireless and security and automation services to residential customers under the Xfinity brand. NBCUniversal is global and operates news, entertainment and sports cable networks, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, television production operations, television station groups, Universal Pictures, and Universal Parks and Resorts. Sky is one of Europe's leading media and entertainment companies, connecting customers to a broad range of video content through its pay television services. It also provides communications services, including residential high-speed internet, phone, and wireless services. Sky operates the Sky News broadcast network and sports and entertainment networks, produces original content, and has exclusive content rights. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. Contact Details Comcast Nick McDonald +1 425-977-5565 Nick_McDonald@Comcast.com Comcast Andy Colley +1 (425) 248-5438 Andy_Colley@Comcast.com El Centro de la Raza Dulce Gutierrez Vasquez +1 (206) 957-4605 dgvasquez@elcentrodelaraza.org Company Website https://washington.comcast.com/

January 25, 2021 08:03 AM Pacific Standard Time

Minuteman Press Earns Entrepreneur Number 1 Rated Printing and Marketing Franchise and Franchise Business Review Top Franchise Rankings for 2021

Minuteman Press International Inc

Minuteman Press International is Entrepreneur Magazine’s 2021 #1 Rated Printing & Marketing Franchise Marking an Impressive 30 Years and 18 Years in a Row at Number 1 Franchise Business Review Has Named Minuteman Press to Their Top Franchises of 2021 Rankings Based Directly on Franchisee Feedback Minuteman Press International, the world’s leading design, marketing, and printing franchise, has been awarded the 2021 #1 printing and marketing franchise ranking by Entrepreneur Magazine. The Minuteman Press franchise team has now achieved this prestigious #1 rating for an impressive 30 years and 18 years in a row. Independent franchisee satisfaction firm Franchise Business Review has also named Minuteman Press International to their Top Franchises of 2021 listing based directly on comprehensive feedback and Minuteman Press franchise reviews from owners. In 2020, Minuteman Press reached an incredible milestone, celebrating 45 years in franchising. Thanks to a complete team effort and the leadership of Nick Titus, third-generation President of Minuteman Press International, Minuteman Press franchisees have been able to adapt and operate efficiently despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. “ Printing is an essential business and Minuteman Press owners provide critical, high-demand products and services to businesses and organizations to help them operate efficiently, market effectively, communicate with clients, and grow,” says Titus. He adds, “To once again receive top franchise rankings from Entrepreneur and Franchise Business Review is a testament to the dedication of our owners and the mutual commitment we have in helping them succeed.” Peter Castorena has owned his Minuteman Press franchise in Lancaster, CA for nearly 15 years. Already a member of the President’s Million-Dollar Circle for achieving yearly gross sales of at least $1 million, Peter has continued to grow his sales even during the COVID-19 pandemic. He says, “There is nothing more that Minuteman Press International could have done to support franchise owners like me during this unprecedented time. We really appreciate the leadership and communication shown by Nick Titus as well as the additional marketing resources and ongoing support we have received when we needed it most.” One of the marketing resources established by Minuteman Press to help support local businesses everywhere during the pandemic is Bounce Back USA. The free initiative provides free local business listings and free COVID-19 awareness and prevention posters. Bounce Back USA was featured in Forbes and has helped connect thousands of businesses in local communities to their consumers with the idea of supporting and shopping local. Titus says, “I am very proud of the work we’ve done with Bounce Back USA (and the Bounce Back programs in other countries we operate) as well as the various marketing campaigns and strategies we’ve quickly developed and made available to our franchisees. As a team, we are constantly striving to help our franchisees and their clients grow their businesses.” He continues, “As essential businesses, our franchises remain open and operating with safe ordering, pickup, and delivery options. For each of our locations, we continue to add more high-demand products and services and we have been doing this for a long time. Today, your local Minuteman Press franchise can provide virtually any type of custom printing and design, direct mail campaigns, large format printing (banners, posters, and signage), custom branded apparel, promotional items, and more.” Titus concludes, “As we move forward into 2021, I am optimistic that we will be able to continue the momentum that we’ve built together. I am thankful for the diversity of products and services that our owners can provide their customers. Already having longstanding relationships with vendors and suppliers enabled us to pivot easily during the pandemic and offer PPE products to our customers as well as other essential products. Our owners have been able to adjust to the needs of their clients throughout the pandemic, and moving forward I feel we will continue to stay strong and grow together.” For more information about #1 rated Minuteman Press printing franchise opportunities and to read Minuteman Press franchise reviews, visit https://minutemanpressfranchise.com. About Minuteman Press International Minuteman Press International is the number one rated business marketing and printing franchise that offers world class training and unparalleled ongoing local support. At Minuteman Press, We Are The Modern Printing Industry ™ providing high quality products and services that meet the needs of today's business professionals and go way beyond ink on paper. Today, our centers offer innovative branding solutions and produce custom designs, promotional products, branded apparel, direct mail marketing, large format printing (banners and posters), signs and graphics, and much more. Prior experience is not necessary to own and operate a successful Minuteman Press franchise. Learn more about Minuteman Press franchise opportunities and access franchise reviews at https://minutemanpressfranchise.com Contact Details Chris Biscuiti +1 631-249-1370 cbiscuiti@mpihq.com Company Website https://minutemanpressfranchise.com

January 25, 2021 10:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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CMMC Center of Excellence Announces Engagement Agreement with itSM Solutions

Interoperability Clearinghouse

The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification Center of Excellence ( CMMC COE ), hosted by the Information Technology Acquisition Advisory Council (IT-AAC), a public-private partnership serving the public and private sectors for more than 15 years, is excited to announce a partnership with itSM Solutions, a global consortium of academic, government and industry thought leaders working together to create training and technology solutions that enable enterprises to design, operationalize and automate a cybersecurity risk management program based on the best practice publications created by the National Institute of Standards and Technologies (NIST), the International Standards Organization (ISO), the Center for Internet Security (CIS) and the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations (COSO) of the Treadway Commission. This unique partnership will extend efforts to identify and include proven capabilities within the CMMC COE Marketplace to improve cybersecurity protection and resilience for the global defense industrial base network of contractors, vendors, and suppliers. itSM has created an innovative, turnkey NIST 800-171 FastTrack Readiness Program that will provide DIB companies with an affordable, fixed price cybersecurity risk management solution that will deliver the cybersecurity risk management outcome expected by the Department of Defense. The FastTrack program will include accredited certification training, online mentoring from industry experts plus an online Integrated Risk Management (IRM) platform that will seamlessly integrate all cybersecurity and IT Risk and Compliance functions into a powerfully automated assessment and program management solution. The executed Engagement Agreement establishes a collaborative engagement between itSM Solutions and the CMMC COE to partner in the furthering of their respective and complementary missions and objectives regarding the adoption, use, and expansion of CMMC based cybersecurity practices, risk management, and compliance for the DIB contractor, vendor, and supplier community of providers creating a broader CMMC ecosystem globally to improve security and resilience. Specific actions will include: The co-development of CMMC advisory services, cyber training and education programs to accelerate CMMC certification, increase cyber adoption and improve cyber protection & resilience. Co-sponsor symposiums, training programs and podcasts leveraging their combined cyber and IT expertise. Host regular working groups, with other partners, to enable collaboration and communications. Source qualified CMMC/ cyber professionals to serve as advocates. Establish an independent Industry Cyber Security Advisory Council with peer organizations to advise and educate leaders across government and industry on the continued evolution and effectiveness of CMMC. “This is exciting opportunity for us”, said Mr. John Weiler, Chairman of the Board at CMMC Center of Excellence, “This new partnership will further help advance the goals and objectives for improving the supply chain security and resilience of the US Department of Defense (DoD)”. “itSM Solutions is proud to partner with the CMMC COE on this very exciting initiative,” stated Mr. Rick Lemieux, Managing Partner and Chief Revenue Officer at itSM Solutions. “We look forward to collaborating with the COE on solutions that will not only get DIB companies ready for CMMC certification but also provide them with the skills and tools necessary to manage cybersecurity risk management as they would any other business function”. The CMMC-COE ( http://cmmc-coe.org ) and itSM Solutions partnership will focus on bringing together the many disparate cyber and national security communities of interest to reduce complexity, improve awareness, and accelerate industry effort to become more cyber resilient against the growing threats from nation states and criminal enterprises. The CMMC-COE establishes both a Market Place and Knowledge Clearinghouse that will include resources that support the overall effort, including white papers; tutorials; recorded webcasts; presentations; and more that will help reduce the cost and burden on small and medium size contractors already struggling from the impact of COVID. For more information on the CMMC COE, please visit http://cmmc-coe.org email info@cmmc-coe.org or call 703-863-3766 For more information on itSM Solutions, please visit https://www.itsmsolutions.com/ About Us ---------- CMMC-COE.ORG is a unique non-profit public-private partnership, with a vision to accelerate Cybersecurity Maturity Model (CMM) adoption, and reduce time & cost for security compliance for our partners by leveraging commercial best practices, CMMC standards, and innovative solutions for a measurable success. Our mission, focused on DOD mission objectives, cost containment and expeditious CMMC compliance, is to help the DIB improve cyber posture and resilience, and simplify its acquisition. The CMMC-COE is hosted by the Information Technology Acquisition Advisory Council (IT-AAC), a public/private partnership (P3) chartered in 2007 as an honest broker to reach outside the confines of the Federal IT advisories that lack dynamic reach into the Global IT Market, and dedicated to the adoption of commercial IT management standards of practice and innovations emanating from the Global IT market. Team IT-AAC has already demonstrated the value of its decade long investment, and provides a unique value to agencies seeking to achieve accelerate the transformation of legacy processes and systems. Our Just-in-Time SMEs apply an innovative suite of Technology Business Management and Agile Acquisition Processes needed to assure the business value of commercial IT. The Interoperability Clearinghouse (ICH), is the managing partner that make up the 24 NGO/SDO organizations that make up the IT-AAC. ICH provides the contract vehicles, clearances, and critical resources proven to guide sustainable, measurable and repeatable processes needed to drive better investment decisions as the speed of mission need, while aligning existing processes, methods and workforce with IT reform mandates contained in Clinger Cohen Act, FITARA, IT MGT Act, EO13838. Contact Details Bob Dix +1 703-975-6633 bob.dix@it-aac.org Company Website https://cmmc-coe.org

January 25, 2021 06:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

Chris Jutt Reviews How Minuteman Press Franchise Conversion Program Helps Independent Printers Sell Their Printing Business

Minuteman Press International Inc

Minuteman Press International Regional Vice President Chris Jutt (Pacific Northwest) shares his professional experiences in connecting sellers of independent print shops with qualified buyers who are looking to buy a printing business. Minuteman Press International, the world’s leading and #1 rated printing franchise, is continuing to expand its Minuteman Press Franchise Conversion Program to help independent printers sell their printing business. “This program is a way for independent printers to sell their business at no cost and no broker fees to them,” says Chris Jutt, Minuteman Press Regional Vice President for the Pacific Northwest Region. Chris has been supporting Minuteman Press franchises in the Pacific Northwest (including Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana) while also helping independent print companies find qualified buyers who are looking for the additional training, support, and resources that come with being part of the Minuteman Press network. Chris explains, “Everything is kept in strict confidence and we are simply there for sellers and will work with them at a pace they are comfortable with. We also help sellers by attracting a wide pool of buyers who don’t necessarily need to be in the printing industry because of the built-in training and ongoing support structure provided to them by Minuteman Press. After the sale of the business goes through, we work with the seller and buyer to help ensure a smooth, seamless transition that also best serves the client base.” How high is the demand for a printing business and how can Minuteman Press help? There is demand for buying a B2B business such as Minuteman Press because print is an essential business and Minuteman Press franchises are open and operating during the COVID-19 pandemic. Chris says, “We’ve seen high demand on our end from buyers because of what we can do for them. When selling your printing business as part of the Minuteman Press Franchise Conversion Program, we are able to expand products and services for buyers and provide benefits such as our proprietary pricing and business management software. Selling as a prospective Minuteman franchise opens up the book of buyers to anyone looking to own their own business. No experience is necessary, which boosts the demand from a whole new audience of buyers.” What does an independent printer need to get ready to sell? For sellers, Chris offers the following advice: “In order to sell, the owner needs to make sure their paperwork is in order. They will need at least three years of financials, employee information, and an asset list that shows all leases and owned equipment. With those items, we can at least begin the process together.” When is it a good time to sell a printing business? Selling a business at the right time is always important but sellers shouldn’t wait until it’s too late either. Chris states, “One thing I always try to stress is that you do not want to be selling your printing business when you absolutely have to. Instead, the best time to sell is when your sales are up, the company is doing well, and you are thinking about selling in the next few years. It is never too soon to reach out and see how we can help. It is important to keep running your business and continue to build it even while you are thinking of selling. Also, by having your financials in order and running them properly, that will only help you get a higher sale price for your business.” How does Minuteman Press help evaluate and value a print business? One of the benefits of the Minuteman Press Franchise Conversion Program is that sellers will get a free evaluation of their printing business. Chris explains, “We look at a few factors when evaluating independent printers. Earnings are very important of course, along with the assets in the business. We work with the sellers to make sure they are getting the best value for their business by reviewing their financials with them to make sure they don’t miss any add backs. The P&Ls never show the true picture or value of the printing business, and we get that. We work together with the seller to extract that, and once we have the agreed earnings together, coming up with a sale price is easy.” How long does it take to sell a printing business? Selling any business does take time and it’s not going to be an instant transaction. However, there are things that can be done to move the process along and make sure it goes smoothly. Chris says, “Like any business, selling a print shop takes time. If a seller is willing to assist with the financing for the buyer, it can potentially sell faster than if there is no seller financing. Based on my experience, I can say the most likely time frame is generally six to twelve months, but it’s not guaranteed. It can take less time when there is seller financing included in the campaign.” He adds, “Also, the business has to be priced right. If it is priced right, the business will typically sell within a small percentage of the asking price, which is why it is so important to have the right agreed upon number. Another thing to consider is that the only businesses we work with are from the printing industry, and we at Minuteman Press have been industry leaders for over 45 years. We are experts in the field, and our team will work with sellers in any way we can to help with the sale and transition.” What issues do independent printers run into when selling? Selling a business is not an easy task. If business owners can get assistance from experienced industry professionals, those experts can help the sellers overcome issues they may not have considered on their own. In his experience, Chris says, “One of the primary issues that independent owners run into is having the business correctly valued in order to sell it. Many times, we have sold a print shop after it was already listed with a business broker for well over a year. We only valuate printing, sign, and promotional businesses and we know how to price them right so that they sell for their true value. We are not about just getting the listing, and we only list a company if we feel very confident we can sell it. Once we approve an independent printing business for the Minuteman Press Franchise Conversion Program, we invest time and money into selling the business so it has to be a good fit for us and we need to be a good fit for them.” He adds, “One example that comes to mind is a sale we did for an owner who was thinking of retiring in three years. She actually placed a lower value on her printing business than what it was worth. Together, we went through her P&Ls and also looked at all additional compensation as well as one-off non-recurring expenses. Based on our review and knowledge of the industry, we found the business was more valuable than the owner thought and it ended up selling (at the right price) for more than she expected. She was able to retire and the new owner was able to come in and hit the ground running.” “We look at the Minuteman Press Franchise Conversion Program as a win-win situation that benefits the seller and the buyer, and we are glad to help.” –Chris Jutt, Minuteman Press International Regional Vice President, Pacific Northwest What concerns do independent owners normally have about selling their printing business? One of the biggest concerns that is always top of mind for business owners looking to sell is that they want to make sure these discussions are kept private until the right time. Chris says, “The biggest concern we see from independent printers is confidentiality. They want to make sure that everything will remain confidential so that employees and customers don’t find out prematurely about a possible sale, and we are happy to assure them of this. From day one, confidentiality is extremely important to all of us. The campaigns we run keep the independent printer anonymous until a qualified buyer is found. We have done this before, and we want to make sure the seller is completely comfortable with us when going through the entire process.” Employee retention and customer service are also items that owners have inquired about when selling. Chris explains, “What will happen to the current employees and clients is something we proactively discuss with sellers. We want to make sure there is a smooth transition for all involved. When we have a qualified buyer and convert the company to a Minuteman Press franchise, we are putting people into business that usually do not have a background in the industry. Therefore, the current employees can be a major asset to them.” He adds, “We go into each sale with the intention of retaining the current staff. Employees also know the client base and that helps with transition and customer retention. In most cases, the customers will get the same great quality and service from the staff they have always had, with additional services and pricing discounts they can now tap into because of the conversion into a full-service Minuteman Press franchise.” How is financing obtained for the sale of the business? For buyers, obtaining financing is one of the most vital parts of the process. It also helps sellers when buyers fully understand the importance of financing and how to best secure it. Chris states, “Financing is always a question that is asked early in the stages of research, and rightfully so. There are multiple ways for a buyer to purchase the business including but not limited to bank loans, personal loans, 401k rollovers, and seller financing. Seller financing is extremely common as it gives confidence to the buyer that the seller believes in his or her business.” Chris concludes with this advice for sellers: “Ultimately, there are many eager buyers out there who are looking to own a viable business. If you are looking at selling or retirement in the next couple years, I highly recommend you start the discussions sooner than later and see how we can help you sell your printing business at no cost or broker fees to you.” For more information on the Minuteman Press Franchise Conversion Program, visit https://bit.ly/minutemanpressconversions or call 1-800-645-3006. Learn more about #1 rated Minuteman Press franchise opportunities at https://minutemanpressfranchise.com. Contact Details Chris Biscuiti +1 631-249-1370 cbiscuiti@mpihq.com Company Website https://minutemanpressfranchise.com

January 21, 2021 12:07 PM Eastern Standard Time

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Comcast Launching WiFi-Connected “Lift Zones” in Oregon/SW Washington

Comcast West Division

As part of its ongoing commitment to help connect low-income families to the internet so they can fully participate in distance-learning and the digital economy, Comcast today announced that seven Boys and Girls Clubs across Comcast’s Oregon/SW Washington footprint have established Lift Zones. With robust WiFi access provided by Comcast, the Lift Zones are designed to designed to help lift, or elevate, the experience for students getting online, engaging in distance learning and doing their homework, providing a safe, secure location for students to connect online each day during normal school hours. This initiative provides free connectivity inside various partner community centers over the next three years. While additional Lift Zones are expected to launch in the coming weeks in Portland and Vancouver, they are currently open at the following Boys and Girls Clubs in Portland, Salem, and Eugene: • Blazers Club - 5250 NE MLK Jr. Blvd, Portland • Rockwood Club - 454 SE 165th, Portland • West Salem Club - 925 Gerth Ave NW, Salem • Swegle Club - 1711 Aguilas Ct, Salem • Knudson Club - 1395 Summer St NE, Salem • Boys and Girls Club of Emerald Valley - 1545 W. 22nd Ave. Eugene Terry Johnson, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Portland Metro Area, says he’s glad to have Lift Zones as a resource. “These Lift Zones are critical for the kids who attend our Club sites. Our Club members depend on our support to help them thrive in the virtual learning environment and we are grateful to have the resources and partnerships to be able to meet their needs. We are eager to see how this improves their academic performance and helps them avoid learning loss during this challenging pandemic.” "We are proud to partner with community organizations like the Boys and Girls Clubs in the effort to enable kids to keep up with their schoolwork,” said David Tashjian, regional vice president, Comcast Oregon/SW Washington. “The COVID-19 crisis continues to put many low-income students at risk of being left behind, accelerating the need for comprehensive digital equity and Internet adoption programs to support them. We hope these Lift Zones will help those students who, for a variety of reasons, are unable to connect to effective distance learning at home.” Tashjian is personally committed to the mission of the Boys and Girls Clubs: he is joining the board of the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Portland Metropolitan Area in January. In addition, Comcast recently announced that it is extending its offer of 60 days of free internet access to low-income customers through its program, and free access to all outdoor WiFi hotspots until June 30, 2021. Lift Zone sites complement Internet Essentials, which has helped connect more than 8 million low-income people to the Internet at home, including more than 52,000 families in Oregon/SW Washington. About Comcast Corporation Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company with three primary businesses: Comcast Cable, NBCUniversal, and Sky. Comcast Cable is one of the United States’ largest video, high-speed internet, and phone providers to residential customers under the Xfinity brand, and also provides these services to businesses. It also provides wireless and security and automation services to residential customers under the Xfinity brand. NBCUniversal is global and operates news, entertainment and sports cable networks, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, television production operations, television station groups, Universal Pictures, and Universal Parks and Resorts. Sky is one of Europe's leading media and entertainment companies, connecting customers to a broad range of video content through its pay television services. It also provides communications services, including residential high-speed internet, phone, and wireless services. Sky operates the Sky News broadcast network and sports and entertainment networks, produces original content, and has exclusive content rights. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. Contact Details Amy Keiter +1 503-605-6350 amy_keiter@comcast.com Company Website https://corporate.comcast.com/

January 20, 2021 11:00 AM Pacific Standard Time

NAMEPA’s Maritime Sustainability Passport Awarded to MSC- Mediterranean Shipping Company

North American Marine Environment Protection Association

The North American Marine Environment Protection Association (NAMEPA) has awarded MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) the “Maritime Sustainability Passport” (MSP) Certificate and Seal. The MSP is awarded to companies, organizations and individuals who meet the requirements of the program which encompasses each of NAMEPA’s six Transparency Pillars in its Corporate Social Responsibility/Environmental, Social and Governance metrics. Stefania Lallai, Vice President Sustainability, MSC said: “We are proud to have received this important recognition from NAMEPA. As a global company led by strong values, MSC has a longstanding commitment to sustainability. For us at MSC, operating responsibly and supporting sustainable global trade is key. Through our business operations, we link global supply chains and facilitate access to markets. We continue investing in innovative, scalable solutions focused on creating positive impact on people, communities and environment.” MSC is the third company to be awarded the Maritime Sustainability Passport. Its global container shipping business qualified for NAMEPA’s MSP by completing all three phases of the program, including supplying supporting documentation for its claims. A team of assessors evaluated their submission to determine whether they meet the CSR/ESG program’s criteria, which upon approval, made them eligible to receive the MSP Certificate and Seal. The goal of NAMEPA’s CSR/ESG program is to evaluate an entity’s corporate governance, the environment and the human element activities. The program provides resources to the maritime industry as a whole and to specific companies and individuals who strive to engage in industry best practices and play a role in creating a sustainable global environment, society and economy. Its Six Transparency Pillars are used as a basis in which to assess the sustainable practices of an organization, company or business. “By qualifying for NAMEPA’s Maritime Sustainability Passport, MSC has demonstrated its commitment to stewardship of the environment, care for its employees, and responsible corporate governance,” stated NAMEPA’s Co-Founder/Executive Director Carleen Lyden Walker. “It comes as no surprise that MSC has qualified for our MSP, as they consistently project best practices in their operations and areas of engagement. We offer them our sincerest congratulations.” The MSP Seal is used to signify the participant met or exceeded the program’s benchmarks, which offer basic guidelines for the maritime industry along with a Tool Kit to help achieve them and develop best practices using CSR/ESG principles. Some of the program’s benefits include increased efficiency, stakeholder visibility and positive global impact and social license. MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company is a global business engaged in the shipping and logistics sector. Present in 155 countries, MSC facilitates international trade between the world’s major economies, and among emerging markets across all continents. For more information about MSC’s approach to sustainability, visit msc.com/sustainability. The North American Marine Environment Protection Association (NAMEPA) is a marine industry-led organization of environmental stewards preserving the marine environment by promoting sustainable marine industry best practices and educating seafarers, students and the public about the need and strategies for protecting global ocean, lake and river resources. Visit us at: www.namepa.net Contact Details Carleen Lyden Walker +1 203-255-4686 executivedirector@namepa.net Company Website https://namepa.net/

January 20, 2021 09:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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