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Soopra AI Raises $1M Pre-Seed Round and Launches Soopra ASK, the World’s First Social Network of AI Agents

Soopra AI

Soopra AI (“Soopra” or “the Company”), the leader in developing AI-driven personas that break language and time barriers to enable real-time engagement for creators and influencers worldwide, today announced the launch of Soopra AI 2.0, also known as Soopra ASK (“ASK”), bringing the world’s first social network of AI agents to market. The company also announced the close of its $1 million pre-seed round. ASK builds upon the foundation of Soopra's initial product launched in 2024, which provided users with AI personas that empowered educators and experts to connect with students and followers in real time and enabled influencers to engage more directly with their fans. Now, Soopra 2.0 introduces a social network of AI agents that allows users to engage with a broader range of leaders, public figures, and celebrities, to perform more advanced functions such as scheduling meetings between multiple parties, answering complex, specific questions, and supporting sales outreach. ASK represents a significant evolution in AI persona technology. Soopra 2.0 has been meticulously developed with unparalleled security, privacy, and robust guardrails to create reliable AI that aligns with human values. “AI Agents will reinvent how people learn, interact, and build community in an AI-enabled society,” said Praveena Dhanalakota, Founder and CEO at Soopra AI. “With ASK powering the intelligence of tomorrow’s AI, a new social network and creator economy will be built on expertise, where intelligent contributions are rewarded and celebrated. Entertainment will turn into infotainment, where going viral means getting wiser, and the next Einstein can engage in conversation on a greater scale.” Soopra 2.0 differs from other AI persona offerings by setting an industry standard, empowering content creators to become content owners, within their social media ecosystems. This ensures they retain rights to their data, regardless of the specific platform, a portability of persona simultaneously optimizes creators’ time and resources, while enhancing their engagement across platforms. “Soopra.ai says what I would say 95% of the time and does it instantly. It’s been a powerful way to scale my presence, answer student questions, and share my expertise more broadly,” said Ronjon Nag, Adjunct Professor at Stanford University and Founder of R42 Group. Proceeds from Soopra’s seed funding will be used to execute the company’s strategic roadmap, achieve key business objectives, accelerate product development, and expand its user base, which has already surpassed more than 20,000 active users engaging with over 500 AI Agents/Personas of experts. ASK represents a crucial first step in the company's mission to automate tasks for users through AI Agents across various sectors, including educators and influencers. “I’m proud of our early community of AI experts who created AI Personas and led Soopra AI into this next phase of growth, and I am deeply grateful to our partners, investors, and users, as well as the icons and intellectuals who have championed our mission,” said Dhanalakota. About Soopra AI Soopra AI was founded in 2022 by serial entrepreneur and AI specialist Praveena Dhanalakota, who has consulted with 300+ AI brands, including Nvidia, and helped build Wells Fargoâs first AI chatbot. Soopra AI is an innovative platform that is developing the next generation of AI-driven digital personas that empower experts, educators, content creators, and professionals to scale their impact globally. By leveraging artificial intelligence, Soopra AI facilitates real-time knowledge exchange, ensuring accessibility and engagement in the evolving creator economy. For more information, visit soopra.ai. Contact Details Soopra AI Nneka Etoniru soopra@avenuez.com Company Website https://soopra.ai/

May 14, 2025 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

UNFTR Launches ‘5 Non-Negotiables’ Campaign to Advance Bold Progressive Agenda

UNFTR

UNFTR ( UNFTR.com ), known for its incisive analysis of American politics and unwavering commitment to progressive values, today announced the launch of its “5 Non-Negotiables” campaign. This new action aims to galvanize support for a transformative progressive agenda, directly confronting what the podcast views as the Democratic establishment’s fundamental inability to deliver meaningful change. The 5 Non-Negotiables—Housing First, Civilian Labor Corps, Medicare for All, Election Integrity, and Climate Action—represent a progressive alternative to the compromised politics that have dominated the corporate-bought duopoly for decades. “The Democratic establishment has consistently been dismissive of progressive priorities in the name of pragmatism and moderation,” said Max, host of UNFTR. “And to what end? Americans are confronting a housing crisis, shareholder-run healthcare system, corporate capture of elections and legislative processes, and a largely forgotten climate emergency, among other critical issues. The 5 Non-Negotiables reject that approach entirely. This isn’t about moving the Overton window slightly—it’s about a bold progressive vision that refuses to compromise on the fundamentals of what makes a just society.” The campaign is the capstone of UNFTR’s podcast series exploring essential progressive priorities, now condensed into comprehensive policy proposals backed by research and historical context: Housing First: Recognizing stable shelter as a human right and economic necessity, with evidence showing 85–90% of participants remain housed after the first year and savings of $10,000–$20,000 per person annually. Civilian Labor Corps: Responding to AI disruption threatening millions of jobs and vagaries of our capitalist boom-and-bust cycles thrusting workers into precarity by creating guaranteed meaningful work focused on climate resilience, care work, and community development. Medicare for All: Transforming a healthcare system that consumes 18% of the American economy while delivering poorer outcomes than other developed nations. Election Integrity: Reclaiming democracy from special interests through constitutional reform that addresses the corrupting influence of money in politics. Climate Action: Establishing a Climate Trust that ensures those who have contributed most to the crisis help fund solutions, generating substantial resources for resilience and adaptation. “When the Democratic establishment tells progressives to moderate our demands or ‘not to let the perfect be the enemy of the good,’ they’re repeating the failed formula that has led to our current crises,” added Max. “The 5 Non-Negotiables give progressives a platform that doesn’t just react to the right, but articulates a positive vision for transforming society. Simply being anti-Trump isn’t enough, as evidenced by the Democratic Party’s incredibly poor standing with the American public.” The campaign provides progressives with practical tools for organizing at the grassroots level, independent of party structures. The website ( UNFTR.com/5nn ) includes downloadable policy briefs, social media posts, and email templates for contacting representatives. UNFTR’s goal is to empower Americans exhausted of being pushed aside as the wealthy gain disproportionately more power. For more information about the 5 Non-Negotiables campaign, visit UNFTR.com/5nn. To interview Max, email max@unftr.com. Founded in 2020, UNFTR is a progressive political podcast and media platform dedicated to providing in-depth, well-researched analysis of political, social, and economic issues affecting Americans. UNFTR produces a weekly podcast The New York Times called “consistently compelling and educational,” twice-weekly newsletter, and related video essays. Learn more at UNFTR.com. Contact Details UNFTR Media, LLC max@unftr.com Company Website https://www.unftr.com/

May 13, 2025 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

TGI Fridays Is Pouring It on Strong with Bold New Menu

TGI Fridays

TGI Fridays®, the iconic American bar and grill, is bringing flavor and fun in a big way with a bold new menu. Launching nationwide today, the revamped offerings elevate the guest experience with boozy, saucy indulgences that lean into Fridays’ flavor-first, irreverent spirit. The menu upgrade is the latest chapter in TGI Fridays’ ongoing comeback story—one that’s already gained traction among loyal followers and industry insiders. “Our guests told us they wanted more flavor and more fun. We delivered,” says TGI Fridays CEO Ray Blanchette. “This new menu is playful, shareable and full of energy—exactly the vibe people come to Fridays for. It’s just the beginning of our strategy to bring bold, vibrant flavors from our global footprint to our U.S. consumers.” At the center of the culinary upgrade: a crowd-pleasing favorite reintroduced with a twist—mozzarella sticks “sauced” with three bold Fridays flavors: FRANKS RedHot© Buffalo, Garlic Parmesan and legendary, Fridays-only Whiskey Glaze. Guests can also opt for the Original with all three sauces on the side. When it comes to cheese sticks and cocktails, Fridays isn’t following trends—they’re setting them. “Fridays is where mozzarella sticks went from just another bar snack to a must-have,” says Blanchette. “We kept our classics and layered on big flavors, so whether you’re in the mood for something familiar or feeling adventurous, our menu hits the spot.” And the drinks? Just as bold. The brand that introduced the singles bar concept put its cocktail heritage front and center with seven new drinks crafted to pack a punch. Signature beverages come with two-ounce pours, from Jack’s New Fashioned to the mega-sized eLITe —a riff on the Long Island Iced Tea Fridays invented in 1965—and the energy-fueled Turbo Toro. It’s a celebration in true Fridays fashion. Also new: the Big Queso Energy Burger, layered with roasted jalapeños, pico de gallo, cheddar and poblano queso, plus more queso for dipping (over a quarter pound of cheese!). Housemade Loaded Tots, amped-up tater tots with bacon, green onion and a new dip-everything-in-it TGI Sauce, round out the new offerings. Prioritizing guest experience, the new menu also features upgraded ingredients and simplified builds for faster service and greater consistency—part of a company-wide commitment to flavor, execution and giving guests what they crave most. Guests can experience the new menu at Fridays’ participating U.S. locations or head to @tgifridays to follow the social fun. About TGI Fridays As the world's first casual bar and grill, TGI Fridays is the birthplace of flair, freedom and celebration, bringing people together to socialize and experience "That Fridays Feeling™," a sense of celebrating the fun in everyday moments, big and small. For 60 years, Fridays has been lifting spirits worldwide and today serves up high-quality, classic American food and iconic drinks backed by authentic and genuine service at 391 restaurants in 41 countries worldwide. Visit www.tgifridays.com for more information and to join Fridays Rewards®. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Contact Details Center Reach Communications Leigh Villegas +1 229-220-9660 leigh@centerreachcommunication.com Company Website https://tgifridays.com/

May 13, 2025 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Totem Launches to Bring Real-Time, AI-Driven Wagering to the Creator Economy

Totem

Totem, the next-generation gaming and wagering platform, today announced its official debut into the betting and gaming market as a creator of bold, culture-first products set to redefine player engagement and provide a wagering experience unlike any other. As its first move, Totem will partner with Kirgo, the gaming powerhouse known for working with top-tier influencers such as Mikki Mase, Bryce Hall and former UFC champion Rampage Jackson. Powered by Totem, the two will work together to merge sports, gaming, social media and influencer content through wagering experiences across Kirgo’s platform. Features offered that will resonate with Kirgo’s influencer-driven audience include: SLAPS: A high-energy, AI-powered game delivering instant-action betting, perfectly suited for the viral, content-driven gaming world. Back Bet: A revolutionary approach that allows users to hedge, trade and back bets on content creators dynamically, creating new ways to engage with influencers such as Jack Doherty and N3on. Streamer Betting: AI-powered odds dynamically shifting in real time based on engagement, letting users bet on live content from Kirgo’s top creators. Virtuals: AI-powered virtual sports and games that deliver nonstop action, tailored for players who crave 24/7 entertainment. “Wagering needs to move at the speed of culture,” said Karl Flores, founder of Totem. “We built Totem to integrate betting, content and engagement in ways that traditional platforms never could. Traditional wagering platforms move too slow for the next generation. By partnering with Kirgo, we’re aiming to change that for the bettor’s benefit.” Kirgo will be able to offer an elevated operator platform that blends influencer-driven content, high-energy gameplay and a seamless wagering experience with Totem as the backbone for its gaming ecosystem. This partnership will enable Kirgo to continue to push boundaries in the entertainment betting space. “Kirgo has always been about challenging the norms of entertainment and gaming,” said Kevin Williams, CEO of Kirgo. “Totem is setting the foundation for a new category in iGaming. The platform revolutionizes engagement for the fan of live streaming and sports. For Kirgo, it's a limitless sand box. Kirgo is partnering with fellow disrupters at Totem to continue our mission to gamify everything. SLAPS, Back Bet, and their AI-driven streaming products are game changers, and we’re incredibly excited to see how these innovations shape the future of the industry.” About Totem Totem is a next-generation platform that creates unique and engaging betting experiences for communities, influencers and brands. With offerings including a full-stack sportsbook, casino platform and customizable prediction markets, Totem is flexible to what's best for its customer’s audience while redefining the future of betting and entertainment. Its AI-powered technology turns any moment—sports, events or content—into a bettable experience, keeping users engaged and entertained. Contact Details Digital Sports by Hot Paper Lantern Sterling Randle srandle@hotpaperlantern.com Company Website https://totempowered.com/

May 05, 2025 09:11 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Spring Bird Delivers Transit Buses to MTR for Use in Major Construction Shuttle Operations

Spring Bird

Spring Bird has delivered six heavy-duty New Flyer D40LF transit buses to MTR, providing dedicated shuttle support for a large-scale semiconductor fabrication plant construction site. The buses will be used to safely and efficiently transport construction workers across the expansive site, reflecting the growing demand for durable, high-capacity shuttle solutions in complex infrastructure projects. The multi-bus order, fulfilled over the past year through several transactions, underscores Spring Bird’s rising role as a trusted supplier of transit buses for industrial and operational shuttle services. According to Spring Bird founder Elliott Carson, the deal came together due to “competitive pricing, fast turnaround, and strong warranty support,” all of which aligned with MTR’s high standards and tight project timelines. “This partnership with MTR is a great example of what happens when two teams are aligned in purpose and professionalism,” said Carson. “MTR had a clear vision, high standards, and a fast-moving project — and we were proud to meet that challenge. Supporting their shuttle operations with dependable, work-ready transit buses is exactly what Spring Bird is built to do.” The buses underwent standard make-ready servicing and were delivered ready for immediate deployment. While not retrofitted with low-emission or advanced telematics systems in this case, the New Flyer D40LF platform offers reliable performance, ample standing room, and durability that outperforms most traditional coach or cutaway vehicles under demanding, repetitive shuttle conditions. “Transit buses are built for this kind of work,” said Thomas Hoskins, Director of Operations at Spring Bird. “You’re moving large numbers of people, constantly, in stop-and-go patterns, sometimes on rough or temporary roads. These vehicles are designed for all-day, every-day use. They can load quickly, handle tough environments, and just keep going.” Spring Bird’s Construction Shuttle Service program highlights several key benefits of using heavy-duty transit buses in worksite transportation: Dual-door boarding allows faster loading and unloading compared to coach buses or vans. Low-floor designs increase accessibility and reduce boarding times. Higher standing capacity allows more flexible loading based on shift schedules. Cost-efficiency comes from needing fewer buses and drivers to move more people in less time. For MTR, choosing Spring Bird also meant working with a team that understands the complexity of operational logistics. “We’re proud to support partners like MTR who are helping to build the future—literally,” said Carson. “Whether it’s a long-term city transit solution or a short-term industrial project, our goal is always the same: safe, smart, dependable transportation.” The deal also adds another chapter to the Carson family’s eight-decade history in the transit industry. Spring Bird, founded by Elliott Carson in 2020, is built on a legacy that dates back to 1943 when Dean Carson began providing local transit in Los Angeles. Today, that commitment to innovation, service, and reliability lives on in Spring Bird’s growing footprint across public and private transportation sectors. About Spring Bird Spring Bird is a premier provider of transportation solutions, specializing in the sale, leasing, and service of heavy-duty transit buses and motor coaches. Drawing from the rich Carson family legacy in the transportation industry, Spring Bird offers an inventory of high-quality buses from leading manufacturers and provides customized rehabilitation services, including minor repairs, major overhauls, and technological retrofitting. Dedicated to safety, innovation, and customer satisfaction, Spring Bird addresses the unique needs of cities, transit agencies, and private operators, ensuring reliable and efficient transportation solutions. Media Contact: For more information, visit https://springbirdbus.com or contact us at press@springbirdbus.com. ### About Spring BirdSpring Bird is a premier provider of transportation solutions specializing in the sale, leasing, and service of heavy-duty transit buses and motor coaches. Drawing from the rich Carson family legacy in the transportation industry, Spring Bird offers an inventory of high-quality buses from leading manufacturers and provides customized rehabilitation services, including minor repairs, major overhauls, and technological retrofitting. Dedicated to safety, innovation, and customer satisfaction, Spring Bird addresses the unique needs of cities, transit agencies, and private operators, ensuring reliable and efficient transportation solutions. Contact Details Media Contact press@springbirdbus.com Company Website https://springbirdbus.com

April 30, 2025 10:41 AM Central Daylight Time

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Comcast to Bring Reliable, Symmetrical Internet to Prior Lake, Savage, Victoria, and Waconia

Comcast Twin Cities

Comcast plans to connect more than 30,000 new homes and businesses in four new Minnesota communities to reliable, high-speed, symmetrical Internet by expanding its next-generation network in the region. This expansion will enhance digital infrastructure, promote economic growth, and position residents and local businesses for success in an increasingly digital world. The network expansion in Prior Lake, Savage, Victoria, and Waconia will bring Internet, mobile, entertainment, and security services from Xfinity and Comcast Business to residents and businesses for the first time. The multi-million dollar-project boosts the company’s total investment in Minnesota’s technology and infrastructure to more than $525 million over the past three years. "Comcast is excited to bring our next-generation network to these four communities—ultimately delivering for residents and businesses the best converged network experience in the industry,” said Kalyn Hove, regional senior vice president for Comcast’s Midwest Region. “As the need for connectivity continues to grow, Comcast remains focused on delivering the best WiFi experience across its entire Twin Cities network, with continuous upgrades made to enhance how our customers stay connected—whether on a laptop, iPad, or mobile phone, whether at home or on the go, Comcast will be at the forefront, delivering an unparalleled experience with lightning-fast, symmetrical speeds on a reliable and seamless network.” A Network You Can Trust to be Reliable, Fast and Secure Comcast’s state-of-the-art network is built to enable residents and businesses to thrive in today’s constantly connected world. These four cities join the 64 million homes and businesses across the country to have access to a network that is trusted by essential community organizations like hospitals, schools, transportation systems and first responders, and federal agencies like the Department of Defense and FEMA. It delivers multi-gigabit Internet speeds, 99.9 percent reliability and security built in from the ground up to keep customers safe from cyber threats. Introducing Xfinity for Consumers Comcast’s residential services are marketed under the Xfinity brand, and consumers in these cities will be able to take advantage of Xfinity’s full suite of products, including Internet, video, mobile, voice and home security. With multi-gigabit Internet speeds, powerful WiFi that reaches every corner of the home, and super-responsive connections with low lag available with its plan, customers have a great experience using their connected devices to stream their favorite sports and entertainment content, video chat with coworkers and friends, learn from home or simply surf the web. Comcast Business to Power Local Workforce For local businesses, Comcast Business offers a suite of connectivity, communications, networking, cybersecurity, wireless, and managed solutions to help organizations of all sizes achieve their business goals. Industry analysts and associations have consistently recognized Comcast Business as a leader and innovator in flexible, scalable options as well as one of the fastest-growing providers of Ethernet services. What it Means for the Local Community Comcast’s commitment to communities goes beyond building the network and aims to increase economic mobility for the local community and its residents. That’s why Comcast created Internet Essentials, a broadband adoption program that offers eligible households low-cost, high-speed Internet and affordable computers. About Comcast Corporation Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. Contact Details Comcast Jill Hornbacher +1 651-425-1695 Jill_Hornbacher@comcast.com Company Website https://midwest.comcast.com/

April 22, 2025 07:00 AM Central Daylight Time

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Viral DeFi Memecoin Cutoshi (CUTO) Continues Ecosystem Developments, With Launch of Cutoshi Wallet Website

Cutoshi

The MemeFi token Cutoshi (CUTO) continues to dominate with its blend of meme culture and real DeFi tools and has now launched its Cutoshi Wallet website. The team has made a large advancement. DeFi has become less complicated and more fun according to their goal since its inception. A Fresh Take on DeFi The platform stands out due to its unique capability of merging humor with operational functions. With their wallet launch, they now provide more ease for everyone across the board - from newcomers to seasoned users. The team expressed their goal to create a simple, useful system which both beginners and professionals could use. The new wallet enables users to manage their assets through a straightforward interface that functions for new users and experienced users alike. What You’ll Find in the Cutoshi Wallet You Hold the Keys It’s non-custodial. Your crypto possession remains under your control rather than a centralized entity. Works Across Chains The wallet connects with over 20 blockchains, so moving your tokens between networks won’t be a pain. No Extra Tools Needed Buying and staking? It’s all right there. No need to jump between different apps. More Utility for $CUTO The wallet will have exclusive features available only to users who hold $CUTO. The increased demand for the token will rise as more users join the platform because of this requirement. Strengthening the Cutoshi Ecosystem This wallet is part of a bigger plan. The Cutoshi project continues to develop an ecosystem that combines memes with real utility by working on the Cutoshi Wallet and Cutoshi Swap platform alongside other tools. According to the team, their mission extends beyond riding the popularity of memes. We are creating a system that people can utilize in their quest for financial freedom. Users can register for future notifications about the upcoming swap platform, which will launch shortly. About Cutoshi (CUTO) The Cutoshi MemeFi project delivers user-friendly decentralized finance tools that users can have fun with. Its multi-chain support alongside staking features and token swaps makes cryptocurrency easier to understand and usable for everyone. Want to Dive In? Visit the Swap Platform and Join the Waitlist: Cutoshiwallet.com Main Site: Cutoshi.com Twitter (X): @CutoshiToken Telegram: t.me/cutoshi Media or Partnership Inquiries? 📩 hello@cutoshi.com Cutoshi is a revolutionary meme coin inspired by the Chinese Lucky Cat and Satoshi Nakamoto’s teachings. It’s based on decentralization, privacy, and monetary freedom, embodying the blockchain's original purpose and ethos. Cutoshi has a vision - to introduce more people to cryptocurrencies and bring financial freedom to all who want it. This article is for general info only and isn’t meant as financial advice. Crypto is risky. Always do your own research or talk to a financial advisor before investing. Contact Details Cutoshi Camila support@cutoshi.com Company Website https://cutoshi.com/

April 16, 2025 02:25 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Trending MemeFi Token Cutoshi (CUTO) Announces New Development, As Cutoshi Swap Website Goes Live

Cutoshi

Cutoshi (CUTO), one of the standout tokens in the MemeFi space, just hit a big milestone — the launch of its new platform, Cutoshi Swap. It’s designed to make trading crypto easier and more private by letting users swap tokens without having to connect a wallet. A Fresh Move for MemeFi Cutoshi has always mixed fun meme culture with real DeFi tools, which helped it grow a strong community. Now with Cutoshi Swap, it’s raising the bar again — offering a new way to trade across chains without the usual friction of wallet connections. The team behind the project said the platform is built to fix problems regular users face. Their words? “We’ve made something simple, with privacy in mind — multi-chain support, no wallet connect needed.” Why Cutoshi Swap Stands Out No Wallet Connection Needed You don’t need to connect your wallet to start swapping — this gives users more control and keeps things private. Supports Multiple Chains The platform isn’t stuck to just one chain. You can move your assets across different blockchains with ease. Very Few Restrictions They’re sticking to decentralization at its core — there’s no long list of banned tokens. That means more coins are usable here. Built for All Levels Whether you’re new to crypto or a DeFi pro, the interface is clean and easy to use. Part of a Bigger Plan This isn’t just a one-off feature. Cutoshi is building an ecosystem. Cutoshi Swap joins a growing list of tools under its belt, all built around transparency, community input, and pushing crypto forward — while keeping that meme vibe alive. One of the team members put it like this: “We think DeFi works best when users don’t have to jump through hoops. It should be simple, direct, and totally yours.” What is Cutoshi (CUTO)? Cutoshi is a MemeFi token — fun on the outside, serious on the inside. It blends meme culture with real utility, offering features like cross-chain transactions, non-custodial trading, and a reward system for its community. Its presale has already attracted people looking to join something that’s equal parts hype and value. Want to Dive In? Visit the Swap Platform and Join the Waitlist: CutoshiSwap.com Main Site: Cutoshi.com Twitter (X): @CutoshiToken Telegram: t.me/cutoshi For press or partnerships: 📧 hello@cutoshi.com Cutoshi is a revolutionary meme coin inspired by the Chinese Lucky Cat and Satoshi Nakamoto’s teachings. It’s founded on the principles of decentralization, privacy, and monetary freedom, embodying the blockchain's original purpose and ethos. Cutoshi has a vision - to introduce more people to cryptocurrencies and bring financial freedom to all who want it. This article is for general info only and isn’t meant as financial advice. Crypto is risky. Always do your own research or talk to a financial advisor before investing. Contact Details Cutoshi Camila Perez support@cutoshi.com Company Website https://cutoshi.com/

April 16, 2025 02:09 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Frequency Forward Files FCC Petition to Block Sinclair Broadcast License Transfers for Five Stations

Frequency Forward

Today, Frequency Forward filed a Petition to Deny, urging the Federal Communications Commission to block the proposed transfer of broadcast licenses currently held by Sinclair, Inc. to Rincon Broadcasting Group. The complaint alleges that Sinclair has systematically used shell corporations to evade the Commission’s multiple ownership rules and has repeatedly misled regulators about the extent of its control over local television stations. Frequency Forward contends that Sinclair’s repeated misrepresentations and ongoing deception are disqualifying and that the FCC should hold a hearing into whether Sinclair and its shell companies are qualified to remain broadcast licensees. The filing argues that Sinclair’s long-standing use of sidecar companies, including Cunningham Broadcasting and Deerfield Media, amounts to de facto control of stations it cannot legally own under FCC rules. The petition further details how Sinclair concealed key financial and operational relationships, failed to disclose its consolidation of these entities as Variable Interest Entities (VIEs), shared legal counsel across all three companies, and made material misrepresentations in previous FCC proceedings. “Sinclair has spent decades building a shadow network of fake licensees to skirt federal ownership limits,” said Arthur Belendiuk, attorney for Frequency Forward. “These companies are not independent broadcasters; they’re fronts for Sinclair. Chairman Brendan Carr has said he’s committed to treating all broadcast licensing matters fairly and balanced, and we hope he approaches this case with the same urgency and determination he’s shown in his first months as Chair.” The petition is critical of the FCC’s 2020 $48 million consent decree with Sinclair, outlining in detail why the consent decree was an inappropriate substitute for a full investigation into misconduct that strikes at the heart of the public interest standard. This includes new evidence obtained via Freedom of Information Act request, which shows Sinclair continued to misrepresent material facts to the Commission while under investigation by the Media Bureau. The Media Bureau entered the 2020 consent decree relying on Sinclair’s misrepresentations, which the petition claims “adds another layer of deceit to its growing list of false statements, concealments and misrepresentations.” The license transfers being challenged include five Sinclair stations: KHQA in Quincy, Illinois, KTVO in Kirksville, Missouri, WICS in Springfield, Illinois, WICD in Danville, Illinois, and WVTV in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The FCC must review and rule on the Frequency Forward petition before the sale of these stations can proceed. “The FCC’s job is to ensure that the public airwaves are used by companies that operate with honesty and integrity,” said Belendiuk. “Sinclair has shown a consistent pattern of deception—concealing ownership structures, misleading regulators, sharing lawyers, and evading accountability. These are not minor infractions. They go to the core of whether Sinclair deserves the privilege of holding broadcast licenses. The Commission must not look the other way.” A copy of the Frequency Forward’s Petition to Deny is available here. Frequency Forward: Frequency Forward is a public-interest organization and consumer advocacy watchdog dedicated to promoting greater transparency and accountability at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Our mission is to ensure the agency serves all Americans and is not beholden to entrenched corporate power. Additional information is available at frequencyfwd.com. Contact Details Raynor Ave. Aaron Alberico +1 202-744-0786 aalberico@raynoravenue.com Company Website https://frequencyfwd.com/

April 14, 2025 10:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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