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EVASIVE MOTORSPORTS / ENEOS OIL HONDA S2000RS HEADED TO 2023 PIKES PEAK INTERNATIONAL HILL CLIMB

ENEOS USA

Always excited to test its products at the highest level, ENEOS Motor Oil will again join brand ambassadors Dai Yoshihara and Evasive Motorsports at the annual Race To The Clouds. The legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (PPIHC) takes the team to the 14,115ft summit, tackling 156 challenging turns over the 12.42-mile course. Previous attempts saw the team claim the 2020 Unlimited Class win with its 900hp ENEOS Racing / Evasive Motorsports Toyota 86. It then set the fastest time for an EV in 2022 with the Turn 14 Distribution / Yokohama Tire / ENEOS / Evasive Motorsports Tesla Model 3 Pikes Peak. Constantly seeking new challenges, the team is returning to Colorado this year with the Evasive Motorsports / ENEOS Oil Honda S2000RS. It’s the racing sibling of the team’s recently announced Honda S2000R resto-mod and is based on a 2004 S2000. It was selected because the company has extensive experience racing and tuning the sports car, becoming very familiar with its attributes and strengths. As part of the team's development program, the S2000RS was campaigned in Time Attack races during the 2022 season, where it showed impressive potential. Among its key attributes are nimble handling, thanks to the combination of a lightweight chassis, premium suspension components and high-speed downforce. The Honda also has a healthy power to weight ratio, thanks to its heavily modified Honda F20 four-cylinder motor developing 650hp in a vehicle weighing 2400 lb. POWER To catapult the Evasive Motorsports / ENEOS Oil Honda S2000RS up Pikes Peak, the F20 engine capacity has been increased from 2.0 to 2.4 liters with a 12.5:1 high-compression Toda Racing bore and stroke kit utilizing 87.5mm pistons, I-beam chrome moly fully floating connecting rods, and a 99mm dynamically balanced crankshaft. To help the enlarged engine breathe at altitude, it has a big-valve Toda cylinder head with sports camshafts, Bosch throttle body and RZCrew billet intake manifold ingesting pressurized air from the HKS GT6290 ball-bearing turbocharger. Just like all its previous Pikes Peak attempts, Evasive Motorsports is again using ENEOS Racing 0W-50 synthetic lubricants, which provide superior performance at higher temperatures while protecting critical engine components. And although the previous Tesla Model 3 racer didn’t require engine oil, the car did help to develop the new line of advanced ENEOS EV Fluids that contributed to lower friction and superior cooling. With the engine developing 650hp, the team wanted to evolve the two-seat sports car’s handling by widening the track and improving the aerodynamic downforce. These goals were achieved with a Voltex Circuit Version 3 aero body kit from Japan, which was supplemented by a high-downforce front splitter and rear wing. A carbon fiber Mugen hardtop was also installed to smooth the airflow over the cockpit. In addition to the aero properties, the body modifications improved engine cooling and allowed the team to widen the Honda’s footprint, squeezing 280/650 R18 Yokohama A005 racing slicks under the wider fenders on 18x11” Titan 7 T-P5 forged racing wheels. The team also spent months dialing-in the handling with KW suspension, StopTech brakes and a new Bosch ABS system. A major addition for 2023 is the OS Giken OS-7 sequential transmission with Hollinger pneumatic shifter kit. It provides paddle shifts, allowing Dai to keep his hands on the wheel in the 156 turns. An IP 8.8 differential kit with OS Giken limited-slip internals helps to maximize cornering traction. “We’re extremely optimistic about our chances this year,” said Mike Chang, CEO at Evasive Motorsports. “With years of experience working on the S2000 chassis and the intensive development we put into both our S2000R project and now the S2000RS for Pikes Peak, we’ve set our sights on the Open Class. We’d love to be the first Japanese tuner car to finish under 10min because it’s never been done before. Of course, there are so many things that can go wrong under the pressure of competition, but we feel the 2023 race presents another opportunity to bring home the silverware!” DAI YOSHIHARA Best known for his highly successful Formula DRIFT career, during which he claimed the 2011 PRO Championship title, the Japanese driver is remarkably adaptable behind the wheel. Currently participating in the TC America racing series in a Honda Civic Type R, Dai also has extensive experience in Time Attack, GT racing, driver training and more. The 101st running of the PPIHC will mark Dai’s fifth Race To The Clouds. His first was in 2019 at the wheel of the ENEOS Racing / Evasive Motorsports Toyota 86. A differential problem ended his aspirations, but he returned to claim the Unlimited Class win the following year. In 2021, the team switched to the Turn 14 Distribution / Yokohama Tire / ENEOS / Evasive Motorsports Tesla Model 3 Pikes Peak. The electric power delivery and handling balance demanded a new driving style, and while electrical gremlins scuppered his 2021 ambitions, the team’s efforts were rewarded last year with the fastest climb set by an EV, helped by a wet track. “We’ve had mixed fortunes at Pikes Peak but I feel we have a real chance for a good result this year,” Dai told us. “We’re competing against a lot of fast cars in the Open Class with a 2004 Honda four-cylinder, but I feel really comfortable in the Evasive Motorsports / ENEOS Oil Honda S2000RS. It’s faster than our previous cars and the handling is excellent. The stock S2000 is one of the best handling Japanese sports cars and Evasive has enhanced it with top components, so we’re hoping for a sub-10min time this year – ideally close to 9:50. However, you never know what the weather will do, so it's always a lottery. We’re taking Yokohama slicks and rain tires to ensure we’re prepared, as long as it doesn’t snow!” The 101st running of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb takes place on June 25. The Evasive Motorsports / ENEOS Oil Honda S2000RS will also participate in the Pikes Peak Fan Fest, which takes place in downtown Colorado Springs on June 23 from 5-9PM. The team will be meeting fans and handing out swag. SPECIFICATIONS EVASIVE MOTORSPORTS / ENEOS OIL HONDA S2000RS Engine: F20 four-cylinder, bored and stroked to 2.4-liters with 12.5:1 high-compression Toda Racing bore and stroke kit utilizing 87.5mm pistons, I-beam chrome moly, fully floating connecting rods and bearings, 99mm dynamically balanced crankshaft, big-valve Toda cylinder head with uprated springs, Beryllium seats and Toda camshafts, HKS GT6290 ball-bearing turbocharger, MoTeC M150 engine management, Origin Fab exhaust manifold, EVS Tuning side-exit exhaust, Bosch throttle body, RZCrew billet intake manifold, ENEOS Racing 0W-50 high-performance synthetic motor oil Transmission: OS Giken OS-7 sequential unit, Hollinger pneumatic shifter kit, IP 8.8 differential kit with OS Giken limited-slip diff internals Chassis: KW three-way dampers, Wisefab spherical arms, subframe reinforcement, AST air jack system Brakes: StopTech six-piston front calipers and 14” rotors, four-piston rear calipers and 12.9” rotors, CSG brake pads, Bosch Motorsports ABS Wheels & Tires: 18x11” Titan 7 T-P5 forged racing wheels, 280/650 R18 Yokohama A005 racing slicks Exterior: Voltex Circuit Version 3 aero body kit with high-downforce front splitter and rear wing, Mugen carbon fiber hardtop Interior: MoTeC C127 dashboard display and Power Distribution Module, Bride seats, Sparco harnesses EDITOR’S NOTE High-resolution images of the Evasive Motorsports / ENEOS Oil Honda S2000RS are available here for editorial use: dropbox.com/sh/3cr2984oqdud16k/AADrgq2qfqpxaTe21dfmIF0-a?dl=0 ABOUT EVASIVE MOTORSPORTS Established in 2002 and based in Southern California, Evasive Motorsports has been dedicated to the best quality performance parts at very competitive prices. With years of experience in the aftermarket automotive industry, our staff is knowledgeable about the products we sell. We also aim to provide the best customer service possible. Evasive focuses on vehicle balance, not solely on horsepower, as reflected by the wide variety of brands and specific areas of functionality offered on the website. Evasive Motorsports also offers race preparation, wheel alignment, corner balancing, suspension installation and tuning, and general maintenance. The company has track-tested an extensive range of parts, so don’t hesitate to call if you’re looking for recommendations. For more information visit evasivemotorsports.com ABOUT ENEOS MOTOR OIL Established in 1888 and headquartered in Tokyo, ENEOS is Japan’s largest oil company, with manufacturing and sales facilities throughout the world. With a unique position in its home market, ENEOS has worked with Asia’s automakers and leading race teams for decades, creating advanced lubricants with their vehicle engineers to provide optimum fuel economy with maximum power and long-term protection. ENEOS also recently announced a new line of products for future electric vehicle applications, helping to ensure the newest EV technology is operating as efficiently as possible. For more information, please visit eneos.us Contact Details The ID Agency Greg Emmerson greg@theidagency.com Company Website https://www.eneos.us

June 20, 2023 08:25 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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News Release

Founders of Kettlebell Kings Sue Factory 14, Razor Group for Fraud and Breach of Contract

IL Ventures, LLC - a Kettlebell King Series

Kettlebell Kings, a leading manufacturer and seller of kettlebells and fitness equipment, recently filed a multi-count lawsuit against both Factory 14 and Razor Group, alleging fraud, breach of contract, and unjust enrichment among eight counts. The lawsuit alleges that the founders of Kettlebell Kings and the company have been damaged by the failed purchase of Kettlebell Kings by Factory 14 and Razor Group. Kettlebell Kings, which has been in operation for more than a decade, successfully grew from a startup to generate annual revenue of more than $5 million in 2021. In November 2021, the founders agreed to be acquired by Factory 14, a United Kingdom-based company that claimed to have the vision and resources to help develop the brand into a $20 million company. However, shortly after the acquisition, problems began to arise. According to the lawsuit, two of the founders, who continued to run the business under the new ownership, determined that the purchase terms of the agreement were regularly violated. They were unable to purchase inventory, even using their own sales revenue. Despite promising ambitious agreements and profit-sharing arrangements, the new ownership failed to adequately support the brand. To the founders' surprise, Factory 14 had simultaneously engineered another transaction in which it was purchased by Razor Group, without disclosing this to the plaintiffs. According to the legal complaint, the founders believe that this transaction was part of a pattern of acquisitions intended to bolster Factory 14's financials solely for additional capital raises and investments. Factory 14 is alleged to have misrepresented the role of the founders of Kettlebell Kings in the sale to Razor Group and made false representations using their business reputation and success to enhance its value in the transaction. All the while, Factory 14 never disclosed its intention to depart from the agreements made with Kettlebell Kings. The lawsuit states that as the business relationship deteriorated further with Razor Group, it became apparent that the new owners lacked experience in the direct consumer market and had no infrastructure to support Kettlebell Kings. Payments required by the consulting agreement were not made on time, inventory was not purchased, and the founders were denied crucial information about the business's operation. Some payments remain unpaid. Razor Group's actions damaged not only the founders of Kettlebell Kings but also the longstanding business relationships the company had developed. According to the lawsuit, Razor Group ceased all inventory purchases, stopped paying manufacturers and vendors, and damaged customer relationships. The lawsuit also alleges that Razor Group misled both Kettlebell Kings and its investors by representing itself as profitable and successful while claiming Kettlebell Kings was struggling. The plaintiffs assert that Razor Group focused more on fundraising rather than effectively managing the businesses it owned. On its website, Razor Group states that it is trusted by leading investors Blackrock, Victory Park Capital, and Fortress among others. The eight-count lawsuit includes allegations of fraud, breach of contract, and unjust enrichment, among others. The plaintiffs argue that they have suffered irreparable damages, and the actions of Razor Group will make it nearly impossible for them to conduct business in the fitness industry in the future. In another case, Razor Group GMBH is currently being sued for fraud and breach of contract in Massachusetts by fitness company Tribe WOD in a lawsuit with a similar fact pattern to the Kettlebell Kings Texas case. The Kettlebell Kings lawsuit was filed in Texas by IL Ventures, LLC - a Kettlebell King Series and its founders Chad Price, Jay Perkins, and Nehemiah Heard against defendants Factory 14 UK Acquisition VI, Factory 14 UK Acquisition VII, and Razor Group GMBH. The lawsuit can be downloaded here and at LawsuitPressRelease.com. Contact Details LawsuitPressRelease.com John P. David +1 888-859-6637 john@LawsuitPressRelease.com

June 20, 2023 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Graton Resort & Casino Breaks Ground on $1 Billion Expansion

Graton Resort & Casino

Graton Resort & Casino, the Bay Area’s premier gaming destination, hosted a groundbreaking ceremony today to celebrate the expansion of the Rohnert Park resort. A new parking structure with solar panels will begin construction tomorrow. Projects, including an additional hotel wing and expanded casino floor, are slated for future development. The expansion of the property will employ 2,000 temporary construction jobs and 600 new Graton Resort & Casino team members. Graton Resort & Casino is already one of Sonoma County’s largest private employers. The casino floor expansion will add approximately 144,000 square feet, adding 2,000 new slot machines, a new poker room, and a new high-limit area. The $1 billion expansion project will also include: A new five-story hotel wing with over 200 rooms A 28,000 square-foot rooftop restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating for 480 guests A five-level parking structure with solar panels and EV charging stations A 3,500-seat theater “This is an exciting day, and we’re thrilled to begin construction. The expansion reflects our consistent mission to provide the highest quality guest experience at Graton Resort & Casino,” said Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria Tribal Chairman Sarris. “We’ve been working on these plans for several years, and we’re excited to create new job opportunities here in Sonoma County.” The project’s architect is Bergman Walls & Associates. The project developer is ECL Development LLC, and the general contractor is SMC Contracting, Inc. MEDIA, PLEASE NOTE: Images and video are available to media here. To request further information, images or interviews, please contact Brianne Miller at graton@landispr.com or (650) 575-7727. About Graton Resort & Casino Located in Sonoma County, Graton Resort & Casino has a commanding presence among the rolling hills of Northern California's wine country. Owned and operated by the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, Graton Resort & Casino features table games, the latest slot machines, upscale and casual dining, plus entertainment options for visitors and locals alike. For more information, please visit www.gratonresortcasino.com. About the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria Graton Rancheria is a federally recognized Indian tribe comprised of Coast Miwok and Southern Pomo Indians. Legislation restoring federal recognition to the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria was signed into law in December 2000. Tribal lands are located in Rohnert Park, Sonoma County, CA. For more information about FIGR, visit www.gratonrancheria.com. ### Contact Details Landis Communications Inc. Brianne Miller +1 650-575-7727 graton@landispr.com Company Website https://www.gratonresortcasino.com/

June 15, 2023 06:43 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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News Release

Givex shares plans on investor engagement through next growth period

Givex Corp

As a part of Proactive's Frequently Asked Questions series, Givex CEO Don Gray joins Natalie Stoberman from the Proactive studio to share what potential investors need to know about the company. Givex provides merchants with customer engagement, point of sale and payment solutions, all in a single platform. The company is integrated with over a thousand technology partners on a fully end-to-end solution that delivers customer insights from over 118,000 active locations across more than 100 countries. Contact Details Proactive Investors +1 604-688-8158 na-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

June 14, 2023 12:57 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Video

Sundance Institute Receives $4 Million Endowment Gift from Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria

Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria

Today the nonprofit Sundance Institute announced the largest endowment gift in its history, a $4 million dollar endowment to the Institute’s Indigenous Program from the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria (FIGR). The opportunities created through the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria | Sundance Institute Endowment will provide support for Indigenous artists from California-based tribes, both federally and non-federally recognized. The gift will allow Sundance Institute to expand the offerings already available to artists through the Indigenous Program, an integral component of the Institute’s work that officially began in 1994 and has been woven into the organization’s values since its inception in 1981, when Native American filmmakers were invited by founder Robert Redford to participate in the originating meetings of Sundance Institute and its first filmmaking lab. The endowment gift was facilitated by FIGR Tribal Chairman Greg Sarris, who himself was a participant in Sundance Institute’s 1992 Screenwriters Lab. In the immediate future, the endowment will create a new fellowship for emerging and mid-career Indigenous artists with a project in development or production, providing critical financial and creative support. The Graton fellows will each receive a grant of $25,000, yearlong creative mentorship from Indigenous Program staff, access to creative and professional development opportunities, and support to attend the Sundance Film Festival. The gift will also support the creation of scholarships with Sundance Collab, Sundance Institute’s digital learning space for artists from around the world. Applications are open from now until August 28, 2023 for the first round of fellowships and scholarships to be distributed in 2024. “As a nonprofit, the Institute is so grateful to Greg Sarris and the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria on this incredibly generous gift that will ensure we are able to continue meaningfully supporting the development of the careers of Indigenous storytellers from tribes throughout the state of California,” said Joana Vicente, Sundance Institute CEO. “It means a lot to us that so many Native talents will be provided a space to learn, connect, and create thanks to this substantial support, and we’re especially appreciative of Greg for giving back to the Sundance family he has belonged to for decades.” “So much of cinema’s history and the establishment of the American film industry has been created within California, but very rarely has it ever included the people on whose very land sustained it. That’s why it’s so heartening to think of all the artists that will benefit from this generous gift,” said Adam Piron, Director of Sundance Institute’s Indigenous Program.“The ripple effect of the opportunities created through this endowment will be significant. Our program is dedicated to empowering a broad range of Indigenous voices, and we’re so excited to be able to expand our mission, specifically to California Indigenous tribes, with the addition of the fellowship and Collab scholarships.” “When I was a part of the Screenwriter’s Lab at Sundance in 1992, I witnessed firsthand the incredible support that the Institute provides to all artists, but Indigenous talent specifically,” said Greg Sarris, Tribal Chairman of the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria. “We are excited to see the creative breakthroughs from future fellows and scholarship recipients. Supporting and nurturing these artists will open up pathways to success for the entire California Indigenous creative community and enable us to tell our stories.” Sundance Institute has a rich history in supporting Indigenous storytellers who have made successful careers working in the film and television industry. Over the years, we have championed Sydney Freeland, Sterlin Harjo, Sky Hopinka, Blackhorse Lowe, Fox Maxy, Caroline Monnet, Shaandiin Tome, Erica Tremblay, Taika Waititi, and more. The Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria | Sundance Institute Endowment will help Sundance further grow this community. Interested applicants must be affiliated with a tribe within the state of California and can learn more here. *** About the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria Graton Rancheria is a federally recognized Indian tribe comprising Coast Miwok and Southern Pomo Indians. Legislation restoring federal recognition to the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria was signed into law in December 2000. Tribal lands are located in Rohnert Park, Sonoma County, Calif. For more information, visit www.gratonrancheria.com. About Sundance Institute As a champion and curator of independent stories, the nonprofit Sundance Institute provides and preserves the space for artists across storytelling media to create and thrive. Founded in 1981 by Robert Redford, the Institute's signature Labs, granting, and mentorship programs, dedicated to developing new work, take place throughout the year in the U.S. and internationally. Sundance Collab, a digital community platform, brings a global cohort of working artists together to learn from each other and Sundance Advisors and connect in a creative space, developing and sharing works in progress. The Sundance Film Festival and other public programs connect audiences and artists to ignite new ideas, discover original voices, and build a community dedicated to independent storytelling. Through the Sundance Institute artists programs we have supported such projects as Beasts of the Southern Wild, The Big Sick, Bottle Rocket, Boys Don’t Cry, Boys State, Call Me By Your Name, Clemency, CODA, Drunktown’s Finest, The Farewell, Fire of Love, Flee, The Forty-Year-Old Version, Fruitvale Station, Get Out, Half Nelson, Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Hereditary, Honeyland, The Infiltrators, The Last Black Man in San Francisco, Little Woods, Love & Basketball, Me and You and Everyone We Know, Mudbound, Nanny, Navalny, O.J.: Made in America, One Child Nation, Pariah, Raising Victor Vargas, Requiem for a Dream, Reservoir Dogs, RBG, Sin Nombre, Sorry to Bother You, The Souvenir, Strong Island, Summer of Soul (…or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised), Swiss Army Man, Sydney, A Thousand and One, Top of the Lake, Walking and Talking, Won't You Be My Neighbor?, and Zola. Through year-round artist programs, the Institute also nurtured the early careers of artists such Paul Thomas Anderson, Wes Anderson, Gregg Araki, Darren Aronofsky, Lisa Cholodenko, Ryan Coogler, Nia DaCosta, The Daniels, David Gordon Green, Miranda July, James Mangold, John Cameron Mitchell, Kimberly Peirce, Boots Riley, Ira Sachs, Quentin Tarantino, Taika Waititi, Lulu Wang, and Chloé Zhao. Support Sundance Institute in our commitment to uplifting bold artists and powerful storytelling globally by making a donation at sundance.org/donate. Join Sundance Institute on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube. ### Contact Details Landis Communications Inc. Brianne Miller +1 650-575-7727 graton@landispr.com Company Website https://gratonrancheria.com/

June 14, 2023 08:00 AM Pacific Daylight Time

Cruising Provides the Best Value to Experience Europe this Summer

YourUpdateTV

Last year, demand for travel to Europe hit an all-time high, following the long-waited lifting of travel restrictions. Today, the desire to travel to this highly sought-out destination remains strong, with companies reporting that searches for European travel are 77% higher than last year. Cruise vacations offer fantastic value for travelers looking to see and experience more during their vacation, this is especially true amidst rising travel costs for airfare and hotels. Recently, the Editor-in-Chief of Cruise Critic, Colleen McDaniel, teamed up with Norwegian Cruise Line on a nationwide satellite media tour to discuss why travelers are finding so much value in cruise vacations and what you need to know before your next voyage to Europe. A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://youtu.be/3r9DRG6BYFo In a recent survey, Cruise Critic readers ranked unpacking once and seeing multiple destinations, ease of travel and cost effectiveness as their top three reasons why they enjoy cruising in Europe. In fact, one in four Cruise Critic readers indicated that they plan to cruise in Europe this summer. With port-intensive itineraries visiting multiple countries and endless activities for everyone from couples, to solo travelers and families alike, cruising takes the stress out of summer Europe vacation planning. Norwegian Cruise Line has something for all travelers to enjoy with more than 100 distinct voyages in Europe from now (June) through the end of the year, with voyages visiting more than 150 destinations throughout Northern Europe, the Mediterranean and the Greek Isles. Cruising in Europe offers great value for the vacation dollar, with fares including nearly everything needed for a fantastic trip: world-class dining, well-appointed accommodations, around-the-clock entertainment, and transportation between destinations without the time and hassle of traveling by train or plane. NCL’s Free At Sea promotion offers guests free open bar, free specialty dining, free excursions, free WiFi, and more. This summer, travelers will also have the opportunity to discover the wonders of Europe aboard the brand’s newest ships, Cruise Critic’s Editor’s Pick for Best New Ship, Norwegian Prima, and her sister-ship, Norwegian Viva, which is set to debut this August. Go to www.ncl.com to learn more about available itineraries and to start planning your long-awaited vacation at sea. About Colleen McDaniel Colleen McDaniel is Editor-in-Chief of Cruise Critic, the world’s largest online cruise resource. She considers cruising to be a true passion, having traveled the world by water – from Alaska, the Caribbean and Hawaii, to Europe’s rivers, Antarctica and Africa – on ships of all ships and sizes. She’s regularly quoted as a cruise expert in media outlets across the country, including outlets like The Associated Press, Good Morning America, CNN, FOX Business, CNBC, The New York Times, Travel + Leisure and Skift. Cruise Critic is the world’s largest cruise reviews and information site, offering a comprehensive resource for cruise travelers -- from first-time cruisers to avid cruise enthusiasts. The site features more than 50M+ opinions, reviews & photos and hosts the world's largest online cruise community. Cruise Critic is a subsidiary of TripAdvisor, Inc. Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

June 14, 2023 10:12 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Vinexpo Asia, Leather Show and Four New Trade Fairs Line Up to Put on a Great Show in Hong Kong

Hong Kong Tourism Board

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach - 14 June 2023 - Hong Kong, the international trade fair capital of Asia, is going from strength to strength. Further to the completion of several successful shows, including Global Sources Hong Kong, which packed out all ten halls with over 100,000 buyers at the AsiaWorld-Expo (AWE), and HOFEX, Asia’s Leading Food and Hospitality Tradeshow which brought over 30,000 buyers from around the world to the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), Hong Kong is continuing to boost the exhibition forward momentum by booking yet more events. The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) announced the city is welcoming back two more premier global trade fairs, Vinexpo Asia 2024 and APLF Leather, Materials + & Fashion Access 2024, while securing four new trade shows for this year. APLF and Vinexpo Asia set to return to Hong Kong in 2024 Next year, APLF Leather, Materials + & Fashion Access 2024, one of the world’s most important leather and fashion tradeshows and Vinexpo Asia, the most highly regarded international show in the wine and spirits industry in Asia-Pacific, are set to return to Hong Kong in March and May respectively. Kenneth Wong, General Manager, MICE & Cruise of HKTB, said: “The return of the world's leading trade shows highlights Hong Kong’s attractiveness, its friendly trading policies, and solid fundamentals; Hong Kong also enjoys promising growth potential with the Greater Bay Area (GBA) and comprehensive government support for the industry. We are highly delighted to see organisers of both old and new shows choosing Hong Kong.” David Bondi, Senior Vice President, Informa Markets Asia said, “We’re delighted to bring APLF events back to Asia’s World City next year. The enthusiasm is palpable as the city has long been our home base, connecting the global markets with Chinese suppliers and buyers.” Launched in Asia a quarter-century ago, Vinexpo Asia is one of the world’s largest events for wine and spirits professionals. Rodolphe Lameyse, Chief Executive Officer of Vinexposium Group said, “Hong Kong is the strategic gateway to the market in mainland China, and 2024 will mark Vinexpo Asia 's triumphant return to the city with hundreds of producers presenting the very best wines from all around the world.” Four new shows cement Hong Kong as GBA’s MICE hub and Asia’s aviation and logistics centre This June and July, four new exhibitions are being staged in Hong Kong for the first time: DMP Greater Bay Area Industrial Expo; the three-in-one expo BioCHINA 2023; Greater Bay Area ESG & Sustainability Exhibition; and the 13th JCtrans Global Freight Forwarders Expo 2023. The exciting line-up is a strong testament to Hong Kong's thriving exhibition scene in the light of the city’s unique position as the MICE hub of the GBA and a global aviation and logistics centre. Check out more upcoming events on MICE event calendar: https://mehongkong.com/eng/home/planning/events.html Global Sources Hong Kong Show in April 2023 occupied all ten halls at AWE HOFEX 2023 attracted over 30,000 buyers at HKCEC Contact Details Hong Kong Tourism Board Ms Ivy Chung +852 2807 6255 ivy.chung@hktb.com Hong Kong Tourism Board Ms Candice Leung +852 2807 6578 candice.leung@hktb.com

June 14, 2023 04:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Save the Redwoods League Urges State Legislators to Deliver Urgent Funding for California State Parks via a Climate Bond in 2024

Save the Redwoods League

Save the Redwoods League today released a new report, daylighting critical funding needs across the California State Parks system. It urges state legislators to make necessary investments statewide through a 2024 climate bond measure or the annual budget process. Recent wildfire and storm damage add to more than $1 billion in deferred park maintenance and more than a decade without an active land acquisition program. Together, these accumulating costs demonstrate that California State Parks does not have the sufficient funding and resources it needs to continue providing equitable outdoor access for all, preserving the state’s biodiversity and bolstering the state’s climate resilience. “California’s unrivaled state park system was built on a backbone of old-growth redwood parks. In fact, California State Parks is the largest public redwood forest manager, which means the health of the redwood forests depends on a healthy California State Parks system,” said Sam Hodder, president and CEO of Save the Redwoods League. “Our longtime park partners are doing an amazing job in light of significant resource challenges, growing visitation and climate impacts. To continue providing unique and inspirational park experiences for millions of visitors every year and investing in our climate resilience, state legislators need to uphold California’s legacy of conservation leadership and deliver adequate funding for California State Parks.” Save the Redwoods League calls on legislators to make investments in land acquisition and deferred maintenance and to provide at least $500 million for park improvement projects and $200 million for natural resources management in a 2024 climate bond. Report highlights: Why California State Parks needs increased and sustained support With 280 park units, the California State Parks System protects the largest and most diverse recreational, natural and cultural heritage holdings of any state agency. This includes 140,000 acres of coast redwood forests (40% of the world’s protected redwoods), 340 miles of coastline, 5,200 miles of trails and 15,000 campsites. Across all park units, there is a $1.2 billion deferred maintenance backlog. There are 49 coast redwood and giant sequoia state parks (17.5% of California’s state parks), and they carry $324 million (27%) of the deferred maintenance projects. Recent storms wreaked havoc throughout the state, causing an additional $72 million in damage in December 2022 and January 2023. Of that, $10 million (13.9%) in damage occurred in redwood and sequoia parks. This damage, along with that from recent fires and other emergencies, are identified as projects to be only partially funded through the Federal Emergency Management Agency by as much as 75% of the costs. More than 68 million visitors from around the world travel to California’s 280 park units every year with 14 million (20.6%) visiting the redwood and sequoia parks annually. Without an active and robust land acquisition program for the last 14 years and with inconsistent funding for facilities maintenance, park improvements, staffing and more, California State Parks cannot keep pace with growing visitation while continuing to provide equitable outdoor recreation experiences. The success of California State Parks is vital to several high-priority state initiatives. Gov. Gavin Newsom’s Outdoors for All initiative promises access to California’s prized landscapes for everyone, regardless of background or location. The state’s bold plan for climate leadership through California’s 30x30 Initiative and the California Climate Adaptation Strategy call for accelerating land conservation and for investing in nature-based solutions to climate change. California’s state parks serve as the ideal foundation for climate leadership, offering climate-resilient landscapes, carbon sinks, equitable park access and a restoration and stewardship economy. California State Parks’ budget must reflect its leadership role in advancing the state’s climate plans, and State Parks must be recognized as a vital partner in ensuring a resilient future for California. The unpredictable pattern of funding over the last few decades is unsustainable and is taking a toll on this world-class state park system. *** To schedule an interview, contact Liza Batallones at 415-766-0846 or redwoods@landispr.com. Save the Redwoods League One of the nation’s longest-running conservation organizations, Save the Redwoods League has been protecting and restoring redwood forests since 1918. The League has connected generations of visitors with the beauty and serenity of the redwood forests. Our 400,000 supporters have enabled the League to protect more than 220,000 acres of irreplaceable forests in 66 state, national, and local parks and reserves. For information, please visit SaveTheRedwoods.org. ### Contact Details Landis Communications Inc. Liza Batallones +1 415-766-0846 redwoods@landispr.com Company Website https://www.savetheredwoods.org/

June 14, 2023 12:24 AM Pacific Daylight Time

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Navidar Advises Sincere Corporation in Its Acquisition of Timehop®

Navidar

Navidar is pleased to announce that our client, Sincere Corporation ( www.sincere.com ), the new parent company behind Punchbowl® and Memento®, has acquired Timehop®, the iconic brand that lets you relive your best memories every day. Sincere and its family of brands are run by the team that founded Punchbowl.com over 17 years ago and launched Memento.com in 2021. Timehop is the first acquisition under the new parent company entity. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. With the addition of Timehop, Sincere has solidified its position as the leading platform for family milestones, celebrations, and memories. Consumers can plan and invite loved ones to an unforgettable celebration on Punchbowl, collect and preserve memories from that occasion with Memento, and relive those moments for years to come with Timehop. “Navidar contributed valuable counsel at every step of this transaction—from strategy to execution—which makes them a unique, trusted advisor,” said Matt Douglas, Founder & CEO, Sincere Corporation. “Navidar’s guidance and seasoned advice were critical, and the successful outcome furthers our vision for the Company. We look forward to an ongoing relationship with Navidar as we continue to grow Sincere.” “We are delighted to have advised Sincere on this strategic acquisition. Sincere continues to strengthen its position as the leading platform for family milestones, celebrations, and memories with the acquisition of Timehop®. Navidar is excited to have contributed to a successful outcome for an innovative, growth-oriented company like Sincere,” said Mark Weisman, Managing Director of Navidar. About Navidar Navidar Holdco LLC (“Holdco”), with a presence in Austin, Atlanta, Cleveland, Dallas, Denver, Indianapolis, Minneapolis and San Antonio, is an investment banking firm that provides strategic merger and acquisition advice, capital raising solutions, and corporate advisory services to businesses and investors in dynamic industries. The firm focuses on SaaS software, eCommerce & Internet, information technology services, specialty manufacturing, and health care information technology companies. Navidar principals have completed more than 400 transactions representing nearly $110 billion in M&A and capital raising, for both private and public companies, over the past 20 years. Navidar Group LLC, an affiliate of Holdco, is a broker-dealer that is registered with FINRA and SIPC. About Sincere Corporation Sincere is a family of consumer internet brands with heart. The Company is home to Punchbowl®, Timehop®, and Memento®, and builds technology that brings you closer and helps show you care to the people who matter the most. More than 275 million online invitations and digital greeting cards have been sent on Punchbowl, 125 million memories are relived on Timehop every day, and more than 9 million memories have been collected on Memento. Sincere Foundation supports organizations that address basic needs, and envisions a future where everyone has the opportunity to celebrate, recognize milestones, and honor memories. The Company was founded by entrepreneur Matt Douglas. To learn more, visit www.sincere.com Contact Details Navidar Chelsey Gonzales +1 512-765-6976

June 13, 2023 01:00 PM Central Daylight Time

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Navidar Advises Sincere Corporation in Its Acquisition of Timehop®