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How Diamond Lake Minerals Is Spearheading Digital Asset Accessibility For Traditional Investors

Benzinga

By Austin DeNoce, Benzinga In the era of digital finance, the integration of traditional investments with more dynamic technology is a growing necessity. Diamond Lake Minerals Inc. (OTCMKTS: DLMI) seems to embody this fusion, leveraging decades of traditional business acumen to pave the way for investors into the digital asset and security token market. With a vision that has evolved since its founding in 1954, Diamond Lake Minerals now focuses on the development and support of SEC-registered security tokens under the guidance of CEO Brian J. Esposito and his 20 years of industry experience. In addition, big-name advisors like Anthony Scaramucci, Larry Namer, Andrew Fromm, Brandon Fugal, Michael Malik Sr., Raul Leal, Agnes Budzyn and David Meltzer have joined the company, bringing years of expertise and success. Through blockchain innovations unlocking asset tokenization, Diamond Lake Minerals is shaping the landscape of investment for generations accustomed to the tangibility of assets – but with a modern twist that embraces new technologies. Diamond Lake Minerals: Bridging The Old With The New Diamond Lake Minerals has entered a fascinating transition from mineral exploration to spearheading innovation in digital assets and security tokens. Adhering to SEC regulations and employing state-of-the-art technology, the company aligns traditional investment values with the demands of the digital economy. Leveraging PR Strategy For Web3 Engagement With the help of Espositio Intellectual Enterprises, Diamond Lake Minerals is pursuing a public relations strategy to promote digital assets and educate the public about them, aiming to make these investments more approachable to the general public. The company’s approach is to combine trusted investment traditions with new digital opportunities, thus simplifying entry into the digital asset market for everyday investors. This strategy hopes to build a community around these modern investment options, making them more accessible to a wider range of investors. Tokenization As The Market's New Frontier As articulated by Larry Fink of BlackRock, Inc. (NYSE: BLK), tokenization has the potential to be a transformative force in financial markets. By enabling digital assets to be traded via protocols, tokenization promises immediate settlement and lower transaction costs. The potential of a financial ecosystem built on tokens also offers a future of enhanced interoperability, transparent access and reduced reliance on traditional intermediaries. Blockchain's Role In Democratizing Finance Diamond Lake Minerals is essentially streamlining the entry into digital assets by leveraging the familiarity of stock investments. Recognizing that downloading digital wallets and understanding NFTs can be daunting, they aim to lower these barriers, making it simpler for people to invest in digital assets through partners like INX Digital Co. (OTCM: INXDF). This approach not only broadens accessibility but also paves the way for more widespread investment in blockchain technology, which promises enhanced transparency and efficiency. By aligning with regulatory standards and offering round-the-clock trading, such blockchain applications are setting new benchmarks in the financial industry, inviting a diverse investor base to partake in the future of digital finance. A Conglomerate Approach To Digital Assets Diamond Lake Minerals embraces a conglomerate approach, managing a diverse portfolio under a unified holding company structure intended for lifetime holding similar to Berkshire Hathaway, Inc. (NYSE: BERK). This strategy, discussed in detail on the Bell2Bell Podcast, reflects an intent to deliver consistent earnings and shareholder value. By blending traditional business wisdom with digital asset innovation, Diamond Lake Minerals presents a regulated opportunity for investment in digital spaces. Traditional Meets Digital Diamond Lake Minerals stands as an intriguing avenue for those seeking to invest in digital assets through a platform that respects the essence of traditional investment principles. The popularity of tokenized assets is still to be fully determined, but the company’s initiatives are paving the way for investors to evolve with the digital economy, reinforcing the potential for sustainable growth and value generation in the digital age. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

November 10, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

Short The Criminals: Knightscope’s Momentum And Double Digit Growth Could Mean A Safer World

Benzinga

By Faith Ashmore, Benzinga Click here to learn more about the Knightscope Public Safety Infrastructure Bond. While the world overall has become more peaceful in the past century, the aftermath of the pandemic has seen an increase in violence in certain areas of the country and internationally. For example, California has seen increases in violent crime in the years since the pandemic hit. The state’s violent crime rate is up by 13.5% compared to the pre-COVID rate of 2019. With poverty rates on the rise, crimes – specifically misdemeanors – might continue to rise in coming years; poverty and non-violent crimes have often been linked due to there being fewer legal means to live a decent standard of living for those under the poverty line. At the same time, police violence and racial police discrimination are also on the rise. A recent study showed that U.S. law enforcement killed at least 1,176 people in 2022, making it the deadliest year on record for police violence since 2013 when experts first started tracking the killings nationwide. Additionally, 1 in 5 Black adults, including 3 in 10 Black men, say they have been a victim of police violence. The combination of increased crime rate, as well as the lack of public trust in police to act justly and within reason, can create tension and potentially dangerous environments. An innovative public safety technology company is deploying an interesting alternative to typical policing that can help reduce both crime rate and policing human error. AI and robotics are part of the solution to create safer public spaces while decreasing human error that can come from human police officers. Knightscope (NASDAQ: KSCP) is a technology company ushering in the dawn of Autonomous Security Robots (ASRs) and working hard to protect U.S. citizens from crime across the country. The company has over a decade of experience and has shown its solutions to be effective. For example, when one of its units was deployed in Huntington Park, Los Angeles County, there were 46% fewer crime reports overall – and they have recently renewed the contract for the 5th year in a row. Knightscope’s success has garnered national attention, and the company has won corporate contracts with major corporations such as PENN Entertainment (NASDAQ: PENN), PG&E (NYSE: PCG), ABM (NYSE: ABM) and Lowe's (NYSE: LOW). Knightscope continues to make waves in the industry with recent accomplishments and contracts. They have recently announced two new contracts, selling a total of ten new machines. These contracts include a hospital in Colorado and an online retailer in Georgia, both of which have recognized the value of incorporating Knightscope technologies into their security programs. One of Knightscope's newest products, the K1 Hemisphere, is specifically designed for securing areas where the use of autonomous security robots is not necessary. An online retailer that operates multiple warehouses across the United States has signed an agreement for two Hemispheres to enhance employee safety and deter theft and criminal trespassing at their Georgia facility. These machines will also monitor the property's driveway. The retailer has also included the Knightscope+ remote monitoring service to ensure prompt investigation and handling of all alerts, relieving the hospital personnel of this responsibility. The retailer reported being so pleased with the deployment at their Georgia location that they have already requested proposals for additional Hemispheres at their New York and Nevada facilities. Additionally, a California community college has invested over $1.5 billion in updating its facilities, including its safety and security measures. Knightscope was chosen as the preferred vendor to replace the college's outdated emergency phone system with K1 Blue Light Towers. With the latest order, the college has installed a total of 26 Towers and is adding 6 more to enhance its operations. Knightscope has also made significant strides in the hospitality and education industries this month. They have secured contracts with hotels in Portland, Oregon, where their K5 Autonomous Security Robots will patrol the parking areas to ensure the safety of guests, employees, and visitors. The company has also partnered with a pre-K school and another hotel. Most notable, however, Knightscope recently announced a collaboration with the NYPD and MTA in New York City, as their robots will operate in the subway system during late-night hours. Known for their effectiveness and approachability, the K5 robots strike a balance between engagement and respect for privacy. The company is currently offering a unique investment opportunity for interested parties to buy bonds. Knightscope is offering 10% interest, paid in cash annually, on up to a 5-year bond. For example, a $10,000 investment could yield $1,000 of interest in cash payments annually for 5 years. Knightscope's recent achievements demonstrate their commitment to revolutionizing the security industry and promoting greater safety for various sectors. The robotics market was valued at $31.38 billion in 2021 and is expected to reach $110.39 billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 15% from 2022-2030. Knightscope seems well-positioned to capitalize on this growth and be a potential leader in the U.S. market. Click here to learn more about the Rise of the Robots. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice. AN OFFERING STATEMENT REGARDING THIS OFFERING HAS BEEN FILED WITH THE SEC. THE SEC HAS QUALIFIED THAT OFFERING STATEMENT, WHICH ONLY MEANS THAT THE COMPANY MAY MAKE SALES OF THE SECURITIES DESCRIBED BY THE OFFERING STATEMENT. THE OFFERING CIRCULAR THAT IS PART OF THAT OFFERING STATEMENT IS AVAILABLE HERE. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

November 10, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

Holiday Kick-off!

News Media Group, Inc.

Contact Details Karl Wayne +1 334-440-6397 karl@newsmg.com Company Website https://newsmg.com/

November 10, 2023 07:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

Video

How Over-The-Counter Medicines Could Impact Your Blood Pressure

YourUpdateTV

Would it surprise you to know that nearly half of all adults in the country have elevated blood pressure, and most don’t even know it? Yet only 30% have spoken with a healthcare professional about the adverse effects some over-the-counter medicines can have on their blood pressure. Recently, Dr. Mitch Elkind, American Heart Association’s Chief Clinical Science Officer, conducted a satellite media tour to share precautionary measures that people with high blood pressure need to take before using over-the-counter medications, especially if they have pre-existing conditions or are on other medications. A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://youtu.be/x7bVSA55fJ0 High blood pressure, (also referred to as hypertension) is when your blood pressure, the force of blood flowing through your blood vessels, is consistently too high. The best way to know if you have high blood pressure it is to have your blood pressure checked. How to use a home blood pressure monitor Be still. Discuss how to use your home blood pressure monitor with your health care professional. Don't smoke, drink caffeinated beverages or exercise within 30 minutes before measuring your blood pressure. Empty your bladder and ensure at least five minutes of quiet rest before measurements. Sit correctly. Sit with your back straight and supported (on a dining chair, rather than a sofa). Your feet should be flat on the floor and your legs should not be crossed. Your arm should be supported on a flat surface, such as a table, with the upper arm at heart level. Make sure the bottom of the cuff is placed directly above the bend of the elbow. Check your monitor's instructions for an illustration or have your health care professional show you how. Measure at the same time every day. It’s important to take the readings at the same time each day, such as morning and evening. It is best to take the readings daily, ideally beginning two weeks after a change in treatment and during the week before your next appointment. Take multiple readings and record the results. Each time you measure, take two readings one minute apart and record the results using a printable (PDF) tracker. If your monitor has built-in memory to store your readings, take it with you to your appointments. Some monitors may also allow you to upload your readings to a secure website after you register your profile. Don't take the measurement over clothes. If you get a high blood pressure reading If your blood pressure is higher than 180/120 mm Hg and you are experiencing signs of possible organ damage such as chest pain, shortness of breath, back pain, numbness/weakness, change in vision or difficulty speaking, do not wait to see whether your pressure comes down on its own. Call 911, as this is an emergency. A single high reading is not an immediate cause for alarm. If you get a reading that is slightly or moderately higher than normal, take your blood pressure a second time and write the results of the two measurements down. Consult your health care professional to verify if there’s a health concern or whether there may be any issues with your monitor. If your blood pressure readings suddenly exceed 180/120 mm Hg, wait five minutes and test again. If your readings are still unusually high, contact your health care professional immediately. You could be experiencing a hypertensive crisis. AHA recommendation The American Heart Association recommends home monitoring for all people with high blood pressure to help the health care professional determine whether treatments are working. Home monitoring, or self-measured blood pressure, is not a substitute for regular visits to your physician. If you have been prescribed medication to lower your blood pressure, don't stop taking your medication without consulting your health care professional, even if your blood pressure readings are in the normal range during home monitoring. Understanding Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications and High Blood Pressure Look for warnings related to high blood pressure medication. Always read the labels on all over-the-counter medications, especially if you have high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. Look for warnings to those with high blood pressure and to those who take blood pressure medications. If you have high blood pressure and certainly if you are on prescription medication, consult your health care professional before taking any over-the-counter medications or supplements. Be careful with supplements or natural (naturopathic) remedies. There are no special pills, vitamins or drinks that can substitute for prescription medications and lifestyle modifications. Talk to your health care professional before taking any over-the-counter drug or supplement that claims to lower your blood pressure. They may not work as advertised and/or may interfere with other medications. In fact, some can even raise your blood pressure. Decongestants may raise your blood pressure. People with high blood pressure should be aware that the use of decongestants may raise blood pressure or interfere with the effectiveness of some prescribed blood pressure medications. Be aware of over-the-counter cold and flu preparations that contain decongestants as well. Discuss any medications you wish to use with your health care professional. Check the sodium content. Some over-the-counter medications are high in sodium, which can also raise blood pressure. Look at the active and inactive ingredients lists for words like “sodium” or “soda.” Note the amount of sodium in the medication. People with high blood pressure should consume less than 1,500 mg of sodium per day from all sources — one dose of some over-the-counter medications can contain more than a whole day’s allowance. Other drugs and substances that can raise your blood pressure include: Alcohol Amphetamines Antidepressants Atypical antipsychotics (for example, clozapine and olanzapine) Caffeine Cocaine Oral contraceptives Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs (for example, ibuprofen and naproxen sodium) Systemic corticosteroids (for example, prednisone and methylprednisolone) Do not stop taking any prescribed medications without discussing with your health care professional. To learn more visit: heart.org/bptools About Talent Mitchell S. V. Elkind, MD, MS, FAAN, FAHA is a tenured Professor of Neurology and Epidemiology at Columbia University, and the Chief Clinical Science Officer at the American Heart Association as of September 2022. He received his medical degree from Harvard Medical School, and he trained in Internal Medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and in Neurology at Massachusetts General Hospital, both in Boston, MA. He completed a fellowship in Vascular Neurology and Neuroepidemiology at Columbia University Medical Center. Dr. Elkind holds a Master’s degree in Epidemiology from Columbia’s Mailman School of Public Health. Dr. Elkind’s research focuses on stroke prevention, inflammatory and infectious biomarkers in stroke risk prediction, atrial cardiopathy, immune therapy for acute stroke, and vascular causes of cognitive aging. He is the second neurologist to serve as President of the American Heart Association (AHA) in its 100 year history, from 2020-2021. About the American Heart Association The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X, or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1. Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

November 09, 2023 10:57 AM Eastern Standard Time

Video

The Snow Agency Announces TikTok Shop Partnership Ahead of Black Friday/Cyber Monday 2023

Avenue Z

As Black Friday/Cyber Monday 2023 (BFCM) approaches, marketers and eCommerce professionals worldwide are gearing up for one of the biggest shopping events of the year. The Snow Agency, an Avenue Z company, and a leader in digital marketing and eCommerce strategy, is proud to announce its status as an official TikTok Shop Partner. The Snow Agency is now offering brands exclusive access, implementation, and optimization of TikTok's innovative shopping platform for BFCM 2023 and beyond. TikTok Shop, which officially launched in September 2023, is revolutionizing how brands connect with consumers to drive sales. The Snow Agency's novel status solidifies its reputation as a trusted partner to enable and scale brands in the new TikTok Shop ecosystem. TikTok Shop offers an array of selling tools and a vast network of affiliates/influencers, providing a unique opportunity for brands to maximize their revenue and gain dynamic, valuable insights. How Does TikTok Shop Work? TikTok Shop offers brands three dynamic ways to showcase their products to a massive and engaged audience: 1. Live Shopping: Customers can seamlessly shop for products featured by their favorite creators and brands during TikTok LIVE livestreams. TikTok Shop products can be tagged and easily purchased during livestreams. 2. Shoppable Videos: In-feed videos become shopping opportunities as customers can click on product links to make direct purchases via any influencer or brand post. 3. Product Showcase: Brands and creators can set up app-native storefronts, allowing shoppers to purchase products directly within the TikTok app. With over 1 billion active monthly users and an impressive 55% conversion rate for users who make purchases after seeing a brand on TikTok, the platform has become a must-visit destination for e-commerce sellers. Key benefits for sellers include: Higher Conversion Rates: With no redirects to other apps or websites, TikTok Shop offers a seamless shopping experience, resulting in higher conversion rates. Extensive Promotion Tools: Brands can leverage various incentives, discounts, free shipping/subsidiary programs, and participate in exclusive TikTok-sponsored campaigns to promote their businesses. Access to Influencers: TikTok Shop provides access to thousands of creators through its affiliate program, allowing brands to connect and collaborate with niche-specific influencers in a pay-for-performance model. Performance Tracking: Comprehensive dashboards within TikTok Shop enable brands to monitor their performance, track traffic, and gather customer reviews. "As a seasoned marketer and long-time Shopify Plus partner with access to unprecedented e-commerce revenue data from our broad client set, I've witnessed firsthand the incredible revenue-generating potential of TikTok Shop.” said Jon Snow, CEO of The Snow Agency. “With access to thousands of content creators and influencers with both seeding and affiliate options, consumer brands have a tremendous amount of influence power within reach. TikTok Shop is a game-changer for e-commerce sellers.” The Snow Agency, part of the Avenue Z Network, is an award-winning digital social media and influencer agency that offers leading-edge marketing solutions to connect brands and consumers. They build seamless digital experiences that influence consumers to act through targeted Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Google Ads, Email & SMS Marketing, and data-driven content creation. Based in Miami, Florida, the Snow Agency is a proud Shopify Plus, Google, Meta, TikTok, Klaviyo, Attentive and TikTok Shop partner. The Avenue Z Network is a strategic communications & marketing advisory focused on brand performance and business growth. Avenue Z works with mission-driven brands to create an integrated narrative through public relations, search and social branding, influencer marketing and performance media. Avenue Z provides clients with the platform they need to gain exposure and activate messages across all media. The Company is headquartered In Miami, FL with offices in Orlando, New York City and Los Angeles. For more information visit www.AvenueZ.com Contact Details Avenue Z press@avenuez.com Company Website https://avenuez.com/

November 09, 2023 10:24 AM Eastern Standard Time

How DLP Capital Is Helping Address Housing Crisis Through Strategic Investments

Benzinga

By Austin DeNoce, Benzinga For most, the words “housing crisis” invoke feelings of uncertainty and concern, but it is a very real and long-standing challenge in the U.S. The Government Accountability Office reports that high interest rates and low inventory are contributing to this issue, and it can be particularly challenging for low-income Americans to find affordable housing. Yet, where there is a problem, innovative solutions arise. Enter DLP Capital, a potential game-changer in the housing market. The company is working on the dual objectives of providing affordable housing while offering potentially attractive opportunities for both communities and investors. DLP Capital's Dual Focus: Housing Affordability And Investment DLP Capital, established in 2006, has a history of active involvement in the real estate sector. With founder and CEO Don Wenner leading the company, DLP Capital has executed over 30,000 real estate transactions, translating to a total value of more than $10 billion. The company reports it has more than 25,000 homes and apartment units in its portfolio and $5 billion in assets under management and that it has positively impacted the lives of over 838,000 individuals. Empowering Communities Through Housing Solutions DLP Capital's initiatives aim to address societal challenges. One of their goals is to impact the lives of millions positively while striving to become the largest investor in rental housing. The company also operates according to specific core values including servant leadership, humble confidence, innovation and stewardship, and it believes in transforming lives through community building with safe, attainable housing as a primary mission. The DLP Housing Fund is an open-ended, private real estate fund focusing on making an impact on America’s affordable housing crisis. The goal of this fund is to offer tenants <30% rent-to-income ratios, and the strategy is to preserve attainable rental housing through investments in existing value-add communities. The primary focus is on secondary and tertiary markets in the Sun Belt. For investors, this fund offers monthly preferred returns with 10 to 12% targeted annual net returns and tax sheltering benefits. Other Investment Opportunities And Their Focus The DLP Building Communities Fund is another initiative by DLP Capital that seeks to address the workforce housing crisis in America. The fund’s objectives involve investing in the development and construction of new rental communities, thereby providing attainable housing for those making incomes near the AMI. From an investment standpoint, the fund focuses on debt and equity in Sun Belt markets with strong demand, aiming to provide limited volatility and targeted annual net returns between 11% and 13%. Meanwhile, the DLP Lending Fund serves professional real estate operators by furnishing the capital required for the development of affordable workforce housing. The fund’s data suggests offers of monthly distributions, liquidity and targeted annual net returns ranging from 9% to 10%. DLP Capital's Initiatives – Brief Case Studies DLP Capital's commitment to both community development and investor value becomes evident through specific case studies. DLP Wexford Village DLP Capital acquired the DLP Wexford Village in 2020 for $43 million. Comprising 340 units in 14 buildings, this vast residential complex offers housing ranging from one-bedroom to three-bedroom apartments. Under DLP’s ownership, the Wexford Village community experienced an evolution in resident engagement and support. The company says the staff's proactive approach during the COVID-19 pandemic was particularly noteworthy – they utilized daily video communications to stay connected with residents, expressing gratitude to healthcare workers with treats and helping residents navigate financial assistance programs to maintain housing security. The Boyd Theatre Project Situated in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, the Boyd Theatre stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Lehigh Valley. Recognizing its potential and its historical significance, DLP Capital, in collaboration with local developer Rocco Ayvazov, embarked on an ambitious project to rejuvenate this landmark. Their plans involve converting the former movie theater into a multifaceted six-story apartment building. This redevelopment aims to encompass commercial retail space, an underground parking facility and recreational areas such as a pool, fitness center and an exclusive outdoor theater for residents. Overseen by the architectural firm SITIO, the project's completion is anticipated by Q3 of 2024, potentially adding a significant boost to local development. Both case studies underscore DLP Capital's ability to synergize investment objectives with a tangible positive impact on communities, reflecting their overarching strategy in the housing landscape. Balancing Community Impact With Investment Goals As urban landscapes continue to evolve and economic dynamics shift, the challenges surrounding affordable housing will likely persist. Ultimately, housing is about more than structures; it's about building communities, fostering connections and ensuring that individuals have a secure place to call home. And in this intricate dance of community building and real estate development, DLP Capital is a proactive participant. As the housing challenges of our time continue to unfold, entities like DLP Capital could play a crucial role in bridging the gap between housing needs and investment aspirations, seeking to craft a future where both coexist in harmony. For more on DLP and how investors could get involved, click here. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

November 09, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

QYOU Media's India Influencer Marketing Business Chtrbox Records Largest Revenue Month in History

QYOU Media

Contact Details Doug Barker +1 437-992-4814 shareholder@qyoutv.com Company Website https://www.valuethemarkets.com

November 09, 2023 07:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

Video

CURE ALZHEIMER’S FUND RECEIVES $100,000 DONATION FROM ART BLOCKS AUCTION OF NFTS

Alzheimer’s Disease Research Foundation

Cure Alzheimer’s Fund (CureAlz), a nonprofit dedicated to funding the most promising research to end Alzheimer’s disease, received a $100,000 donation from the sale of generative art created by five celebrated digital artists, organized by Art Blocks in collaboration with The Giving Block. In October, generative art platform Art Blocks hosted reGEN — an exclusive sale of works by five leading artists from around the world, supported by Right Click Save. reGEN unites artists and collectors in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease, with proceeds from the auction donated to Cure Alzheimer’s Fund. reGEN is curated by Alex Estorick and Foteini Valeonti, who have also raised more than $500,000 this year in support of Cure Parkinson’s and The ALS Association. A collaboration with The Giving Block, reGEN supports the global movement of generative artists in fighting neurodegenerative diseases that affects millions globally. The five artists who participated in the auction are Melissa Wiederrecht, Sputniko!, Nat Sarkissian, Robert Hodgin, and Marcelo Soria-Rodriguez. “We are so grateful for the generosity of the five artists, The Giving Block and Art Blocks,” said Meg Smith, CEO of Cure Alzheimer’s Fund. “The creativity embodied by the art and the donations from this event will generate enormous returns in scientific progress. Alzheimer’s robs people of their stories, and it is fitting that a wonderful consequence of the works of self-expression by the five exceptional artists will be scientific research to preserve the stories and selves of others.” Cure Alzheimer’s Fund is a nonprofit dedicated to funding the most promising research to prevent, slow or reverse Alzheimer’s disease. Since its founding in 2004, Cure Alzheimer’s Fund has provided grants to the world’s leading researchers and contributed more than $180 million to research. Its funded initiatives have been responsible for many key breakthroughs in understanding the causes and pathology of Alzheimer’s disease. Cure Alzheimer’s Fund has received a 4-star rating for more than 12 consecutive years from Charity Navigator. With 100% of funds raised going to support research, Cure Alzheimer’s Fund has provided grants to many of the best scientific minds in the field of Alzheimer’s research. For more information, please visit https://www.CureAlz.org/. Contact Details Barbara Chambers +1 978-417-9890 BChambers@CureAlz.org

November 09, 2023 06:45 AM Eastern Standard Time

Cigar Association Urges OMB to Reject FDA's Proposed Flavored Cigar Ban

Cigar Association of America

The Cigar Association of America (CAA) said that it asked the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) during a November 6 meeting to withdraw the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Flavored Cigar Product Standard (FCPS) banning flavors in cigars, which it said would cost the industry nearly $4 billion in sales—up to 47 percent of industry sales—and destroy 16,000 jobs. CAA president David Ozgo stated, “We presented evidence to OMB that FDA’s proposed flavored cigar ban dramatically fails to meet the criteria necessary for such a ban under the Tobacco Control Act, offering little or no public health benefit while having a devastating economic impact on the industry.” Ozgo noted, “FDA claims the product standard will reduce youth usage of cigars and that prohibiting flavored cigars will address health disparities in minority adult subpopulations. CAA showed OMB government data demonstrating that neither of these claims is true.” FDA Ignores Science on Health Effects & Clear Economic Impact In order for FDA to impose a flavored cigar ban through a FCPS, the law requires that the Agency consider: whether the potential product standard is appropriate for the public health, taking into consideration scientific evidence concerning the risks and benefits to the population as a whole; the increased or decreased likelihood that existing users of tobacco products will stop using such products; and, the increased or decreased likelihood that those who do not use tobacco products will start using such products. “FDA’s Flavored Cigar Product Standard fails on all three accounts,” Ozgo charged, “Youth usage rates of cigars, and of flavored cigars in particular, are at all-time lows and these low rates reflect a stable and sustained trend.” The 2022 National Youth Tobacco Survey (“NYTS”) showed past 30‐day youth cigar use at 1.85% and past 30‐day youth flavored cigar use at 0.83%. The recently released 2023 NYTS data showed past 30‐day youth cigar use has declined to 1.6%. While the flavored cigar use data has not yet been released, it is expected to follow the trend at under 1% of use. Other government surveys reflect similar trends. In fact, the most recent Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Survey (PATH) showed that past 30-day youth usage of cigars was only 0.70% and past 30-day youth usage of flavored cigars was just 0.14%. In addition to unsupported youth usage claims, CAA demonstrated FDA failed to show that adult subpopulation health disparities are associated with flavored cigar use or that banning flavored cigars would remedy these disparities among Black, Non-Hispanic Americans. CAA did so despite the fact that FDA is required by law to base its decisions not on subpopulation impacts but on impacts to the population as a whole. 1 (See note 1) “FDA’s claims aside, there is simply not a pattern of use of these products that raises a concern of public health that can justify eliminating an entire category of products, while depriving adult consumers of the right to choose these products” he said. While the public health case is non-existent, FDA’s proposal would have dramatically negative economic consequences. A recent study by the Policy Navigation Group showed the flavored cigar ban would reduce retail sales by nearly $4 billion, up to 47 percent of industry sales, causing some 16,000 people to lose their jobs. FDA Recently Lost in Court After Ignoring Scientific Evidence CAA and other industry groups recently convinced a court to reject the Agency’s effort to regulate “premium” cigars. More particularly, the judge in the case ruled against the FDA, citing the Agency for ignoring the scientific evidence. The proposed FCPS similarly ignores scientific evidence. Ozgo stated, “Just as it did in 2016 and 2019, we urge OMB to again reject FDA’s flavored cigar proposal. There is little or no public health benefit from the proposed FCPS, but huge negative economic consequences will result. This is as bad as public policy gets. Ultimately, FDA’s proposal is a solution in search of a problem.” CAA is a national trade association representing manufacturers, distributors, importers, suppliers, and all channels of retailers in the cigar industry, and traces its roots back to the 1890s. 1 The most recent PATH data (Wave 6), collected in 2021, reports that, in the overall adult population, Black, Non‐Hispanic use of flavored cigars had fallen to 1.86% from 3.22% in Wave 5 (collected in 2019). Further, in the young adult population (18–25‐year‐olds) the past 30‐day prevalence rate had fallen to 0.76% in Wave 6 from 1.57% in Wave 5. Contact Details Frank Coleman +1 202-223-8204 fcoleman@cigarassociation.com

November 08, 2023 12:30 PM Eastern Standard Time

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