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Paralyzed Veterans of America works to end handicapped parking abuse, marks 75th year advocating for accessibility

YourUpdateTV

A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://youtu.be/ulJa59_iS_w Accessible parking spaces designed specifically for people with disabilities are often misused, causing added difficulties for paralyzed veterans and others with disabilities. A survey found that 85% of Americans with disabilities struggled to find accessible parking in their communities, and over 50% turned back when they couldn’t find accessible parking. What can be done to combat this problem? Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) has launched the Honor the Spot campaign to encourage all Americans to do their part to keep handicapped parking spaces open for people who need them to be independent. The campaign reminds people that accessible spots are a civil right, and taking them means people with disabilities may not get to appointments and errands. The call to Honor the Spot comes as public spaces open up to larger capacities as pandemic restrictions ease, and as PVA marks its 75 th year as a voice for veterans with spinal cord conditions, and all people with disabilities. PVA is asking people to pledge to be part of the solution at pva.org/HonortheSpot, not to make excuses for taking accessible spots, and not to share handicapped placards for any reason. About Paralyzed Veterans of America: For 75 years, Paralyzed Veterans of America has been the only Veterans service organization dedicated solely to helping Veterans with spinal cord injuries and disorders (SCI/D), and diseases like MS and ALS. Our team of legislative advocates, architects, medical professionals, lawyers, and other highly trained professionals strives to ensure that every Veteran regains the freedom, independence, and quality of life they fought for. PVA is a major support system for our nation’s paralyzed heroes, their families, and caregivers, through ensuring quality health care; securing earned benefits; fighting for disability civil rights; making America more accessible; helping Veterans find meaningful careers; empowering them through sports, recreation, and wellness programs; and funding both research and education in search for a cure and improved care and autonomy for individuals with paralysis. Operating more than 70 offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, PVA helps paralyzed Veterans and all people with disabilities live fuller, more productive lives. Learn more at pva.org. About YourUpdateTV: YourUpdateTV is a social media video portal for organizations to share their content. It includes separate channels for Health and Wellness, Lifestyle, Media and Entertainment, Money and Finance, Social Responsibility, Sports and Technology. Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

June 23, 2021 03:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Timber Exchange urges exporters to Egypt to prepare for July transition to new customs platform

Centersource

While Egypt’s new advanced cargo information (ACI) system is expected to streamline regulatory requirements for importers, the new system represents a significant departure from the current customs system. B2B supply chain platform with marketplace and market data Timber Exchange by Centersource is reminding timber exporters and other companies shipping to Egypt to prepare for the transition. Effective July 1st, Egypt’s unified registration system, called NAFEZA, will become the only means of processing maritime imports into the country. The new regulation will require exporters to submit all cargo data and documents (commercial invoices, packing lists, and final or initial bills of lading) with 3 additional unique elements: ACID number representing the shipment, Importer taxation ID, Exporter registration number upon vessel’s sailing from Port of Loading. If documents indicate wrong or mismatched numbers, cargo will be banned from being loaded on board. Furthermore, all exporters must be registered on CargoX’s blockchain-document-submission platform. Other processes that exporters should be aware of include: Exporters are responsible for providing importers with accurate information: Exporter’s company cargo ID. Exporter’s type ( whether it is a factory, branch, etc..) Correct details of the contact person. Clear details of Proforma Invoice including GS1 code or part/item number & HS code. Create and verify a CargoX account. Ensure that verified ACID 3 elements are added on required documents. Create an ACI filing envelope & submit it to Customs authorities in Egypt through CargoX or through one of its integrated partners such as Timber Exchange by Centersource Technologies. In addition, exporters should be aware of the Importer's responsibilities, which include: Importers will have to register an account on the electronic portal, NAFEZA. Importers must register primary and detailed information about the shipment in order to apply for the issuance of ACID number. Failure to meet ACI requirements could cost exporters. In a scenario where the cargo is loaded onto the ship, but the documents were not submitted in time or one or more of the three elements are missing or miss-matched, the cargo will not be discharged in Egypt, and all re-export costs will be borne by the carrier. In the final weeks before the mandatory operation phase of NAFEZA, Centersource is working to bring the timber industry up to speed to avoid any disruption. Centersource’s founder and CEO Amir Rashad is available to talk about what exporters to Egypt can do to prepare for the next phase of NAFEZA. Amir and his team of 30 logistics professionals are also available to discuss the ways in which Timber Exchange is creating trading opportunities across challenging markets, and helping exporters overcome language and regulatory barriers. To speak with the Timber Exchange team, contact Mai Taha at mai@centersource.io or Jéssica Sanduta at jessica@centersource.io. About Timber Exchange Timber Exchange is a supply chain and risk management cloud-based system by Centersource Technologies offering supply chain tools, market data and marketplace. The platform is built specifically for the unique needs of the forestry industry to drastically improve overall performance and coordination. 80 smart tools in 5 languages cover all steps from inquiry of cargo until it arrives at destination. This allows stakeholders to manage sales, logistics and legal obligations from a central workspace that automatically creates tasks and warnings. 40% of the work can be automated, which reduces delays and helps avoid deviations in responsibilities. The Swedish company is on a mission to automate global trade. Today the company employs 30 full-time staff with extensive, solid, and international experience in technology, forestry, trade finance, and business intelligence. Contact Details Charlie Pesti +1 267-439-4355 charlie@pesti.io Company Website https://www.centersource.io/

June 22, 2021 12:10 PM Eastern Daylight Time

ENEOS returns to Pikes Peak with Dai Yoshihara, Evasive Motorsports and a Tesla Model 3

ENEOS

ENEOS — Japan’s largest oil company, and supplier of motor oil and transmission fluids to the majority of Asian vehicle manufacturers — announces its return to the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb with its sponsored driver, Daijiro Yoshihara, and car builder Evasive Motorsports. This in itself is a big story since the same combination won the Unlimited Class at the 2020 event, but what makes it more remarkable is that the team has put aside its proven 900-horsepower turbocharged Toyota 86 and is building a Tesla Model 3 from scratch for the new attempt. Initially, the connection between a Japanese oil company and a US-built electric race car might not be immediately apparent, but it’s an indication of the major changes electric vehicles are bringing to the automotive industry. For ENEOS, its involvement with the Turn 14 Distribution / Toyo Tires / ENEOS / Evasive Motorsports Tesla Model 3 Pikes Peak race car is an opportunity to prove and promote its new EV Fluid Series. The line of six dedicated EV fluids (listed below) has been developed by the same engineers and chemists who work alongside the majority of leading car makers in Japan and Asia. Currently, ENEOS engineers and chemists are working closely with many vehicle manufacturers to create the latest lubricants, continuously improving vehicle efficiency through reduced friction, lower emissions, improved fuel consumption and greater longevity. And as the future of automotive development looks towards electric vehicles, ENEOS also tasked its development teams to look at alternative fuel vehicle concepts, particularly in terms of lubrication and cooling. The new ENEOS EV Fluid Series is now being offered to existing OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) partners and the rest of the world’s EV manufacturers to help improve vehicle efficiency. With a stroke of serendipity, Evasive Motorsports in Cerritos, CA also foresaw electric vehicles becoming a major factor in their future and took the major decision to purchase a used Tesla Model 3 and transform it into a challenger for the annual Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (PPIHC). As one of the world’s most grueling motorsports festivals for both the driver and the car, the 12.42-mile “Race to the Clouds” climbs 4724 feet from start to finish The sustained demand of the high-speed course will put tremendous strain on any vehicle’s components, but particularly the Tesla battery packs, which must remain cool to maintain maximum power for the duration of the 156-turn course. As with all vehicle technology, one of the best ways to prove its credentials is to drop it into the cauldron of competition. And so the Turn 14 Distribution / Toyo Tires / ENEOS / Evasive Motorsports Tesla Model 3 Pikes Peak race car will become a partner in the development of the new ENEOS EV Fluid Series. TESLA MODEL 3 PIKES PEAK With six previous PPIHC attempts under its belt, Evasive Motorsports (EVS) is supremely experienced but the Tesla’s preparation is particularly challenging because very few motorsports components exist, requiring a great deal of extra effort in terms of problem solving and fabrication. One of the team’s priorities has been to ensure the powertrain has sufficient cooling. Evasive worked with CSF Radiators to create a new radiator and oil cooler set up. As an extra precaution, a nitrous oxide sprayer was installed, helping to chill the batteries during the hill climb if pre-set temperatures are exceeded. Airflow to the battery pack has been further improved with a carbon fiber front vent, venting in the new carbon fiber hood, and rear inlet ducts integrated into the C-pillars. Developing 450 horsepower, the stock Tesla Model 3 Performance accelerates 0-60mph in 3.1sec to a top speed of 162mph. The Evasive team needs to harness its all-wheel drive performance in order to create a new EV Production Car track record time in the Exhibition Class (because no EV competition class currently exists). As such, the car has further modifications, including widebody fenders and carbon fiber aero pieces from Artisan Spirits in Japan. The primary purpose is to accommodate 18x11” Titan 7 TP-5 forged wheels and 305/650-18 Toyo Tires racing slicks. This combination, in harmony with KW Competition suspension and Brembo racing brakes, should ensure Dai Yoshihara has the best chassis to command the 156 turns on his way up to the finish line. To further enhance aerodynamic efficiency and reduce weight, EVS developed its own aero disc covers for the wheels, and carbon fiber replacement doors, roof, rear windshield and trunk lid. For high-speed stability, the Tesla is equipped with an EVS honeycomb carbon splitter and rear diffuser plus a Voltex carbon fiber GT rear wing to generate increased downforce. Another major addition is the Quaife ATB rear differential, which will better apportion power to the rear wheels. However, its installation was far from simple, requiring a modified frame and custom bushings. As with previous PPIHC attempts, the diff is lubricated by ENEOS gear oil to ensure efficiency and durability. The final piece of the puzzle is the nut behind the wheel. And for 2021, driving duties will again be performed by Dai Yoshihara. As the 2011 Formula DRIFT driver’s champion, multiple Time Attack race winner, GT sports car driver and racing instructor, he will be protected by an FIA-spec EVS rollcage while sat in his carbon/Kevlar Sparco QRT-K bucket seat with six-point harnesses. For his third attempt at PPIHC, Dai will monitor speed and vehicle parameters via a Motec C127 Datalogger display in a custom carbon fiber EVS dashboard. “I’m very excited about my third PPIHC,” Dai told us. “We had a great result last year and will try our best to build on the momentum. I’m grateful that ENEOS has supported our PPIHC program ever since my first year in 2019, and that they accepted our new challenge with the Tesla EV this year. We’re all very excited to see what we can do!” With the conversion to a race car recently completed, its test program continued until the team headed out to the “Race to the Clouds,” which takes place on June 27 in Colorado. Everybody at Evasive Motorsports is determined to be fully prepared for when the Turn 14 Distribution / Toyo Tires / ENEOS / Evasive Motorsports Tesla Model 3 Pikes Peak pulls up to the start line. “This is definitely our most ambitious project to date,” admitted Mike Chang, co-founder of Evasive Motorsports. “We love to challenge ourselves and know it’s only a matter of time before the performance and racing industry will need to look seriously at electric vehicles. So, we decided to jump into the deep-end and apply all our motorsports experience to the Tesla Model 3. We’re hoping to anticipate any potential problems we will face, but we won’t know if we succeeded until Dai crosses the finish line on 6/27, and hopefully we’re left holding the EV Production Class track record!” For ENEOS, its EV development program will not stop when the flag drops at Pikes Peak. It will continue to work with many of the world’s largest car makers to help solve their lubrication and EV fluid requirements in the pursuit of greater efficiency. “We’re proud to be returning to Pike Peak International Hill Climb with Dai Yoshihara and Evasive Motorsports,” said Keisuke Yokochi, Chief Marketing Officer at ENEOS USA. “We’re excited to learn how our products work under intense competition, not only in the traditional rear differential but also with the latest EV components. We have always worked with partners in world-class motorsports series such as F1, NASCAR, Super GT, Rallycross, Formula DRIFT and more, which has allowed ENEOS to develop not only the most efficient vehicle solutions but also the most protective to help ensure maximum durability and performance for the benefit of all.” SPECIFICATION Turn 14 Distribution / Toyo Tires / ENEOS / Evasive Motorsports Tesla Model 3 Pikes Peak Motor / Battery Cooling: CSF Radiators radiator / oil cooler, NO2 (nitrogen dioxide) sprayer, custom hood vent and rear inlet ducts Suspension / Chassis: KW Competition 3 Way coilover suspension, SPL Suspension spherical links, Evasive Motorsports spherical joints and custom front sway bar, MPP front upper A-arms and rear lower arms, Quaife ATB rear differential in modified frame, air jack lift system Wheels / Tires / Brakes: 18x11” Titan 7 TP-5 forged wheels with Evasive Motorsports aero covers, 305/650-18 Toyo Tires racing slicks, Brembo Pista racing front brake kit, custom Brembo GTS rear brakes, Evasive Motorsports electronic E-brake system Exterior: Artisan Spirits widebody fenders plus carbon fiber aero kit, Evasive Motorsports custom honeycomb carbon splitter and rear diffuser, Voltex dry carbon Type 13 1800mm GT rear wing, Evasive Motorsports carbon fiber doors, roof, rear windshield, trunk lid and front air duct, Lexan windows Interior / Safety: Evasive Motorsports FIA-spec rollcage, Evasive Motorsports carbon fiber dashboard, Motec C127 Datalogger / dash display, Sparco carbon/Kevlar QRT-K racing bucket seat, six-point harnesses and steering wheel ENEOS EV FLUID SERIES ENEOS EV FLUID Gear Protection: A fluid to enhance the performance and increase the protection of reduction gears ENEOS EV FLUID HV AT: A specialized fluid for automatic transmissions in electric/hybrid vehicles ENEOS EV FLUID Motor Cool: A fluid with a balance of gear lubricity, motor cooling, and electrical insulation properties ENEOS EV FLUID Energy Saving: A fluid to maximize the performance of motor cooling and energy-saving through very low friction ENEOS EV FLUID Isolation: A fluid to maximize electrical insulation for safety ENEOS EV FLUID Battery Cool: A specialized coolant for battery packs and electrical components EDITOR’S NOTE Additional high-resolution images of the Turn 14 Distribution / Toyo Tires / ENEOS / Evasive Motorsports Tesla Model 3 Pikes Peak race car are available here for editorial use: dropbox.com/sh/dkqgsmrz03p6bjo/AACyd_-aCEz7l4P5-2AsUDjna?dl=0 ABOUT ENEOS 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 ENEOS Satomi Yamashita media@eneos.us ID Agency Greg Emmerson greg@theidagency.com Company Website https://www.eneos.us

June 22, 2021 06:50 AM Pacific Daylight Time

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BETTER WAYS, the CMA CGM Group’s new signature

CMA CGM Group

Building a more efficient, resilient and sustainable global trade is the strategic transformation driven by Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the CMA CGM Group. This new ambition is embodied by BETTER WAYS, the Group’s new signature. Drawing upon CMA CGM’s history and the core values that have supported its development for more than 40 years, the Group is launching a global communications campaign with a powerful key visual linking people, technology and the planet. A NEW AMBITION FOR A NEW WORLD A commitment to take action, BETTER WAYS is the promise of a renewed shipping and logistics offering that adapts constantly to customers’ needs. A promise that is built around five strategic pillars: Further expansion in shipping powered by innovation for higher levels of security, operational efficiency and greater customer satisfaction through the introduction of more sustainable transport solutions as well as through the Group’s commercial offer, including the extensive range of CMA CGM+ value-added services. The offering of efficient logistics solutions by building a complete and seamless range of services, from warehouse management to shipping, to overland transport and air freight, all within the CMA CGM Group’s shipping entity, its logistics subsidiary, CEVA Logistics, and its new CMA CGM AIR CARGO division. Faster innovation and digitalization. By investing in R&D as well as in IoT, artificial intelligence and blockchain solutions, the Group aims to develop smarter and more secure service offerings, while delivering a smoother user experience for both customers and employees. The development of solutions that are more people- and planet-friendly to make shipping and logistics a more sustainable industry. The Group is committed to taking concrete action by adopting the best available solutions, i.e., liquefied natural gas (LNG), biomethane and biofuel to achieve its goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2050. The support and guidance for the Group’s staff members, keeping them safe, improving their well-being and championing more inclusive approaches with tailor-made training programs provided by the CMA CGM Academy to help them develop their expertise and know-how. Through the CMA CGM Foundation, staff members are able to pass on their talents via skill-based volunteering programs and other volunteering actions around the world. « BETTER WAYS is a game changer that embodies a mindset and a commitment for logistics and transport solutions that are more responsible and efficient while being built on strongly humane values from a family-led enterprise » commented Tanya Saadé Zeenny, Executive Officer of the CMA CGM Group, President of the CMA CGM Foundation. A STRONG KEY VISUAL AS A SYMBOL OF THIS NEW AMBITION The BETTER WAYS signature and its key visual convey the Group’s—and its staff members’— unrelenting will to always strive for the better. Looking to the future, responsible growth and continuous progress, this triptych of images reflects the scale and complementary nature of the Group’s business activities, and its ability to provide a comprehensive, integrated service offering. They also recall the Group’s determination to take steps to ensure its logistics activities are increasingly considerate of both people and the planet. With its new signature, the Group reaffirms its commitment to unlocking new ways of creating value for its customers, its partners and its 110,000 staff members around the world. The CMA CGM Group worked with Havas Paris and Brandimage, two globally renowned communications specialists, to help create a strong and impactful image conveying its growth, ambitions and expertise. About CMA CGM The CMA CGM Group, a world leader in shipping and logistics headed up by Rodolphe Saadé, serves over 420 ports on 5 continents around the world. The Group’s fleet of 561 ships carried close to 21 million TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit) containers in 2020. With its CEVA Logistics subsidiary, a world-class logistics provider carrying 400,000 tons of air freight and 2.8 million tons of overland freight every year, and CMA CGM Air Cargo, the CMA CGM Group is constantly innovating to offer its customers end-to-end services delivering performance gains through ground-breaking shipping, overland, air freight and logistics solutions. The CMA CGM Group is committed to leading the energy transition in shipping and has pioneered the use of alternative fuels. In addition, it has set itself the goal of being carbon-neutral by 2050. This program of continuous improvement has yielded concrete results and reduced the Group’s total CO 2 emissions by 4% in 2020. Via the CMA CGM Foundation, the Group reaches out to thousands of children every year with initiatives championing education for all and equal opportunities. The CMA CGM Foundation also responds to humanitarian crises with emergency relief by harnessing the Group’s shipping and logistics expertise to carry humanitarian supplies to wherever they are needed around the world. With a network of over 400 offices and 750 warehouses in 160 countries, the Group employs more than 110,000 staff members worldwide, 2,400 of whom are based in Marseille where it has its registered office. cmacgm-group.com Contact Details Amber Leonard +1 804-218-8933 media@cma-cgm.com Company Website https://www.cma-cgm.com

June 21, 2021 06:31 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Agora Data Announces Commercial Real Estate Lending Program

Agora

Agora Data, dedicated to providing robust financing options to help meet the capital needs of Buy Here Pay Here (BHPH) dealers and smaller finance companies, today announced the company’s launch of AgoraPoint. AgoraPoint offers financing for commercial real estate and facilities and is another step to providing a holistic one-stop funding solution for dealers. Steve Burke, CEO of Agora Data, Inc. stated, “AgoraCapital provides more capital capacity than traditional lenders and enables BHPH dealers to grow their portfolio to two, three or four times their current size. Many dealers need to open new locations to handle that growth and Agora wants to make that funding easy for the dealer through AgoraPoint.” Offering a new funding source for subprime dealers to efficiently and effectively obtain capital to grow their dealership’s footprint reinforces Agora’s commitment to make available to the BHPH industry innovation and resources to fuel business. Members that connect their portfolios to the Agora platform, immediately start to realize the benefits of Agora’s proprietary modeling that outlines their business potential and the keys to maximize growth. Chris Barry, SVP of Sales at Agora stated, “When I talk to a dealer and let them know they qualify for $20 million in capital when their current lender has them capped at $5 million, the dealer asks how they can use the $20 million with only one car lot. AgoraPoint helps make the purchase of more lots possible.” AgoraPoint is the latest product added to Agora’s family of products all powered by radical AI and machine learning. Agora is dedicated to enabling BHPH dealers and small to mid-tier finance companies grow safely and have available abundant and affordable capital. About Agora Data, Inc: Founded in 2017, Agora Data’s mission is to provide access to capital for Buy Here Pay Here dealers and small to mid-sized finance companies. Pioneered by Agora Data, AgoraCapital, AgoraCredit and now AgoraPoint all provide critical funding so small- to mid-sized dealers can obtain all the cash they need to fuel growth. Agora’s proprietary, radical, AI-infused technology connects dealers and finance companies with the capital markets. Agora Data made history by closing the first-ever Crowdsourced Subprime Auto Securitization in 2020 and followed that up with its second transaction in early 2021. For more information, visit agoradata.com or contact us at 877-592-4672. Contact Details Shelly Vandeven +1 682-282-4130 media@agoradata.com Company Website https://agoradata.com/

June 21, 2021 11:07 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Minuteman Press Franchise in Bellingham Helps Buzzing Local Economy Recover from Pandemic

Minuteman Press International Inc

For Michael Tilley and his team at Minuteman Press in Bellingham, the COVID-19 pandemic brought forth unprecedented challenges but also new opportunities for growth as an essential printing business. Michael says, “Early on, a lot of our clients asked us if we were open. They were happy to know we were still operating and able to help them communicate to their customers that they were open as well. We put renewed emphasis on fast turnaround and timely delivery, which really set us apart since they knew they could rely on us.” By remaining open and operating, Minuteman Press in Bellingham supported a wide range of businesses and groups that relied on print and marketing to keep the community informed. Michael says, “The way we kept growing during the pandemic was that we offered products and services for other essential businesses. We worked with local restaurants, fire departments, police departments, hospitals, schools, and other vital organizations. They all needed signage and direct mail campaigns to promote updated guidelines for employees, customers, patients, and students. We were glad to be able to help spread the word.” Today, as more businesses reopen, Minuteman Press is ready to help them ramp up their advertising and marketing efforts. Michael explains, “As businesses come back, we are helping them by providing fresh banners, window graphics, flags, and full-color photos on windows. We’ve also been printing packaging materials such as labels, tags, boxes, and information sheets. Another popular service we provide is dye sublimation, which enables us to produce custom mugs and branded apparel.” Another way that local businesses can engage and connect with customers right now is by utilizing direct mail campaigns. Michael says, “Direct mail was and is getting more popular because it allows businesses and groups to reach out to their target audiences and reinforce operational updates. We’ve produced a combination of newsletters, postcards, and letters for local governments, local tribes, non-profit groups, and for-profit businesses.” “It’s been really great to see more businesses reopen and recover, especially those that were impacted. The local economy is buzzing again and we are getting even busier.” -Michael Tilley, owner, Minuteman Press franchise, Bellingham, Washington As a local small business owner himself, Michael can empathize with his clients and share his own insights from the past year. He says, “The most important thing to do is reach out to your current and former customers. Let them know you are there and engage with them. We have developed a multi-faceted marketing plan that includes phone calls, emails, direct mail, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Because we’ve done it ourselves and have found success, we know it can work for our clients and other local businesses.” Print is a vital marketing channel that can be used in conjunction with digital to deliver tangible results. Michael explains, “I think one aspect of this is that the pandemic jogged us back into a physical reality. We are physical beings and we are not cyber creatures. It made people pay more attention to print and how it’s all around us. Our ability to produce tangible printed items that people can see, feel, and connect with is a real benefit to my business. The printing industry in general makes sure business customers get what they need. It’s great to be able to rely on something when the world’s a little bit sideways.” Michael has owned Minuteman Press in Bellingham since September 2014. He shares, “Previously, I was a biology professor and I have a PhD in molecular genetics. I lived in Missouri and I moved to Bellingham to be closer to my children, which was the driving force behind switching careers. I was new to owning a business so I wanted to go into something with a framework in place. I bought an established Minuteman Press franchise and liked the potential to build on the existing customer base.” By providing ongoing local support, Minuteman Press International helped Michael transition from his prior career to becoming a business owner in a totally new industry. He says, “The support has been really solid all the way around. My Regional Vice President Chris Jutt and Area Manager Jayson Kraus have been great. I can call them anytime and they have been a great resource. I also enjoy the fact that we are provided with marketing strategies, content, and product ideas that we are free to use but that we also have enough freedom to run our franchise the way we see fit. Minuteman Press offers a solid system with a lot of knowledge behind it.” Michael reflects on his time as a business owner, saying, “I enjoy the fact that the work I do has a direct impact on how the company performs. I feel it’s important to have the right staff in place and to also manage the team properly. I have a staff of seven and I know that happy employees do a great job. The satisfaction I get from running my business the right way and growing a successful company is the ultimate reward.” As for what advice he would give to other local business right now, Michael shares, “Things are opening up, and business is going to start getting much busier for everyone. Act now so you don’t fall behind the curve. Have you worked out what your marketing plan is going to be when things do ramp up? Be prepared organizationally and develop a coherent marketing strategy across all different touchpoints. From web to print, be consistent with your branding and your messaging.” Minuteman Press in Bellingham is located at 4025 Iron Gate Rd., Bellingham, WA 98226. For more information, call 360-738-3539 or visit https://www.bellingham.minutemanpress.com. Learn more about #1 rated Minuteman Press franchise opportunities at https://minutemanpressfranchise.com. Contact Details Minuteman Press International Chris Biscuiti +1 631-249-1370 cbiscuiti@mpihq.com Company Website https://minutemanpressfranchise.com

June 21, 2021 10:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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SUPER73® debuts versatile, affordable SUPER73-ZX

SUPER73

SUPER73® – the American lifestyle adventure brand specializing in electric motorbikes – is a world leader on the e-bike scene, captivating a loyal riding community with its fun, affordable, versatile and environmentally friendly products. While the company expanded its range in 2020 with flagship models crammed with the latest technology, it hasn’t forgotten its roots. In fact, the SUPER73 design team went back to the drawing board to re-imagine and re-engineer one of its original products, the SUPER73-Z1. The result is the brand new SUPER73-ZX. Picking from a checklist of popular features, the SUPER73 team ensured the ZX will meet the demands of a broad range of existing fans and new customers. These features include a lighter aluminum-alloy frame, allowing for greater range from the now removable battery. Additionally, the new ZX frame is larger, providing comfort for taller riders and making it easier to pedal. Like its other new generation of models that launched in 2020, the ZX offers Pedal Assist Modes: the SUPER73-ZX has four Riding Modes, including Class 1 and 2 (up to 20mph) plus Class 3 and Unlimited (up to 28+ mph). Battery range is estimated at 25-50 miles depending on the pedal assist mode, but this can vary depending upon conditions such as rider weight, speed, temperature, wind, tire pressure, terrain, incline, etc. The Riding Modes are identified as Eco, Tour, Sport and Super. They are accessed via the SUPER73 smartphone app (compatible with IOS and Android devices) and confirmed on the compact ZX Transflective Monochrome LCD display. The same technology also allows over-the-air software updates, ensuring the power supply is always running at its most efficient. The versatile SUPER73-ZX has been designed to cater to the most popular riding groups, many of which came to prominence during the global pandemic. Not only did the lockdown create a huge surge in the popularity of e-bike transportation, but also an expansion in what customers expect from their vehicles. As a result, the features of the ZX make it ideal for everybody from week-day commuters to weekend warriors, urban adventurers, and even parents with young families; the longer seat makes it more practical to carry precious cargo. Purchase price is an important consideration in this consumer category and the SUPER73-ZX will launch with a price of only $1995. All models will ship with the standard 615 watt-hours battery pack, four Riding Modes, smartphone connectivity, extended comfort seat, 31” seat height, 180mm disc brakes, and much more. As a bonus for early adopters, the Moon Rock Launch Edition will have red wheel liners on the 20”x100mm wheels, while the Storm Gray models will have white liners inside the wheel rims for easy identification. The Launch Edition will be shipped with 20x4.5” LZRD Street tires that have a tire tread pattern biased towards street use but provides riders with the ability to explore almost any environment. The SUPER73-ZX is available now, with first deliveries scheduled for Mid-July. A full range of accessories are also available, allowing customers to tailor the bike to their needs. This includes items such as a Saddleman seat, Crank Brothers bags and pedals, 1 Up Car Rack, Oury Grips, and SUPER73 custom handlebars and molle panels. For full product details and to order the SUPER73-ZX, please visit super73.com EDITOR’S NOTE A selection of high-resolution images is available here: dropbox.com/sh/bfc42mv19gjxnt2/AAD5jKyebOxevaZIiSlpqvoMa?dl=0 Editor’s wishing to review the SUPER73-ZX for editorial purposes should use the Media Contacts below. ABOUT SUPER73® SUPER73® is an American lifestyle adventure brand based in Orange County, CA that develops products to help fuse motorcycle heritage with youth culture. Founded in 2016, SUPER73 has quickly grown into one of the most recognizable electric vehicle brands in the world with a passionate customer base including A-list celebrities, professional athletes, and many more. For more information, visit super73.com or @super73 on social media. Contact Details Christiana Mullen +1 714-659-4883 christiana@super73.com Greg Emmerson greg@theidagency.com Company Website https://super73.com

June 17, 2021 10:05 AM Pacific Daylight Time

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Cyvatar Raises an Additional $9 Million in Series A Round

Cyvatar

Cyvatar today announced that it has raised $9 million as part of its Series A financing to help scale and serve its rapidly growing customer base and continue to drive the adoption of its innovative cybersecurity-as-a-service (CSaaS) model. Escalating cybersecurity breaches and the need to address vulnerabilities across systems, networks, and apps fuel the security services market, expected to reach $193 billion by 2028. Additionally, the growth in hybrid and remote workers coupled with unsecured and unpatched BYOD devices further underscores the need for on-demand cybersecurity resources that include human talent, proven processes, and best-of-breed technology delivered from a single intuitive platform. Cyvatar has grown more than 200% since its debut in October. ATX Venture Partners led the round with additional participation from existing customer CORTEC and longtime Cyvatar investor Bill Wood Ventures. Cyvatar closed a $3 million seed round late last year, bringing the total amount raised over the last eight months to $12 million. “We’ve seen fundraising explode in the security space, in part as a result of the raft of ransomware, email compromise, and phishing attacks that have made people more aware of the problem and increased the need to fix it quickly and effectively,” said Chris Shonk, partner at ATX Venture Partners. “Cyvatar is an exciting addition to our dynamic portfolio and a natural fit alongside our other rapidly growing organizations. No other company we evaluated solves the problems of cybersecurity like Cyvatar. With Cyvatar CSaaS, security becomes as effortless as turning on the lights. There’s no better value for customers.” Cyvatar CSaaS offers security in a box for organizations of any size and any level of cybersecurity expertise--already more than 150 platform members have started the security journey with Cyvatar. Its mature sales and marketing engine makes it easy for new members to join and offers ongoing education and support for existing customers to continuously remediate evolving threats, safeguard critical systems, and boost compliance scores. "I can tell you that after implementing just three Cyvatar solutions, our security confidence is a lot stronger than it was before and our company as a whole is far more secure,” said Brent Fanguy, vice president of technology at CORTEC. “We applaud Cyvatar for pricing by employee count because it’s so easy to calculate and fit into our budget -- no counting servers or workstations, which is a nightmare. Cyvatar has delivered consistent value from our security spend, and we look forward to continuing to grow our partnership with them.” Whether customers need to speed their sales cycles, remediate after a breach, prevent future incursions, or respond to a third-party risk assessment, Cyvatar helps them achieve superior business outcomes every day. Click HERE to get started free and learn more about how Cyvatar is making cybersecurity effortless for every business. About Cyvatar Cyvatar is committed to effortless cybersecurity for everyone. As the industry’s first subscription-based, cybersecurity-as-a-service (CSaaS) company, it’s our mission to transform the way the security industry builds, sells, and supports cyber solutions. We empower our members to achieve successful outcomes by providing expert advisors, proven technologies, and a strategic process roadmap to guarantee results that map to their business drivers. Our approach is rooted in proprietary ICARM (installation, configuration, assessment, remediation, maintenance) methodology that delivers smarter, measurable security solutions for superior compliance and cyber-attack protection faster and more efficiently, all at a fixed monthly price. And because we’re a subscription, members can cancel anytime. Cyvatar is a global organization with operations around the world. Begin your journey to security confidence at cyvatar.ai and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube. About ATX Venture Partners ATX Venture Partners is an early-stage venture capital firm specializing in the South-Central US. The firm’s seed and Series A investments focus on software-as-a-service, IoT, e-commerce, AI, frontier commercial technologies and mobile applications. ATX Venture Partners brings institutional-grade funding, process and rigor to early-stage venture capital investments, and is the partner to propel portfolio companies forward to larger growth capital. The firm was founded in 2014 and is based in Austin, Texas. Visit www.atxventurepartners.com, and follow them on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Contact Details Cyvatar KC Higgins +1 303-434-8163 kc@cyvatar.ai ATX Ventures Meg Brigman +15127666462 meg@atxventurepartners.com Company Website https://cyvatar.ai/

June 17, 2021 07:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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NHS Test and Trace strengthen their cyber defences with Risk Ledger

Stockwood Strategy

NHS Test and Trace has selected British cyber security company Risk Ledger to manage cyber security risks in their supply chain as a proactive measure to mitigate the increasing risks the NHS and other critical national infrastructure organisations face from supply chain cyber-attacks. The Risk Ledger platform will give the UK government funded service all the tools they need to manage cyber security risks in their supply chain at speed for a low per-supplier cost - at least 60% cheaper than traditional solutions. Cyber security risks in the supply chain can include third parties failing to encrypt sensitive data when it is being transferred. NHS Test and Trace, established to track and help prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus in England, will take advantage of Risk Ledger's key innovation which is its secure 'social network' allowing organisations to connect and share risk data securely, quickly, and easily. This gives organisations like NHS Test and Trace unparalleled visibility of their supply chain and a comprehensive set of data to identify, measure and mitigate supply chain security risks at scale. Major supply chain cyber security breaches at Solarwinds and Microsoft in recent months have put the challenge of securing supply chains at the top of the agenda for organisations around the world. Minister for Digital Infrastructure, Matt Warman MP said: “The government is working tirelessly to secure the nation online and grow the UK's £8.9 billion cyber security industry as we build back better from the pandemic. We're helping SMEs develop innovative products and services and it's great to see Risk Ledger, one of the firms we've supported, win this contract to protect the Test and Trace system and support the national effort against coronavirus.” Risk Ledger's client base includes organisations like BAE AI, City of London Police, Telenor, Schroder's Personal Wealth and ASOS. Risk Ledger CEO and Co-Founder Haydn Brooks said: "NHS Test and Trace is essentially the biggest new start-up in the UK healthcare market so we are delighted they have chosen to take advantage of our ability to provide enhanced visibility of their supply chain risks. I am proud we will be part of the effort to secure this incredibly important supply chain. "Healthcare organisations and their supply chains handle lots of highly sensitive data and have a high rate of data breaches. We have already seen during the COVID-19 pandemic that bad actors are actively targeting supply chains to access data and cause disruption” added Haydn Brooks. Risk Ledger is a rising star of the UK's growing cyber security scene having won competitions run by the UK Government's National Cyber Security Centre, the tech industry body TechUK and most recently a winner in the Department for Digital, Culture, Media, and Sport’s ‘Most Innovative UK Cyber SME of the Year’ competition in May. The company is also a member of the UK Government backed LORCA programme (London Office of Rapid Cybersecurity Advancement). About Risk Ledger Risk Ledger is a British company that manages cyber security risks in supply chains. Th process of supply chain security risk management ensures third parties who deliver critical services, have access to data, corporate networks, or any other status of business trust, maintain a good base level of cyber security controls to prevent bad actors using the third party as an attack vector. In 2019, Risk Ledger won the ‘Cyber Den’ competition at the 2019 CyberUK event run by the UK Government’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). At the time, Ian Levy, Technical Director at the NCSC said: ‘Our mission is to make the UK the safest place to do business online. We run the Cyber Den competition with DCMS to identify and provide a springboard for the most promising cyber security start-ups in the UK. Risk Ledger beat some excellent competition at this year’s Cyber Den event because their platform approaches supply chain security in a novel way that could revolutionise the way organisations understand the cybersecurity of their supply chains which is at the root of so many security incidents.’ Notable achievements - Risk Ledger was a finalist in the 'Most Innovative New Technology Award' category at the 2021 Water Industry Awards. - In March 2021, Risk Ledger won the South Summit Industry 4.0 innovation competition. - In May 2021, Risk Ledger was announced as a runner up in the Department for Digital, Culture, Media, and Sport’s ‘Most Innovative UK Cyber SME of the Year’ competition. Contact Details Risk Ledger Bilal Mahmood +44 7714 007257 b.mahmood@stockwoodstrategy.com Company Website https://riskledger.com/

June 16, 2021 05:15 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Cyvatar Raises an Additional $9 Million in Series A Round

NHS Test and Trace strengthen their cyber defences with Risk Ledger