Digital Asset DirectHoliday 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
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Digital Asset Direct
News ReleaseTwo British Beauty Icons Unite: UK-Based Revive Collagen Announces Celebrity Hairstylist Chris Appleton as its First U.S. Ambassador
Revive Collagen
Revive Collagen, Europe's fastest-growing liquid collagen brand, today announced its expansion into the U.S. market alongside its first U.S. ambassador, Chris Appleton, the conceptual and trusted personal hairstylist to some of the world’s biggest stars; Kim Kardashian, and Jennifer Lopez. Founded in the U.K. in 2020 by co-founder and national TV personality Samantha Faiers, Revive Collagen launched as a result of Samantha Faiers suffering from hormonal and postpartum acne after the birth of her second child. After discovering the lack of ingestible collagen options in the marketplace and two years of development in the UK’s top lab, Revive Collagen quickly became the most sought-after premium collagen brand in Europe, selling one box every 90 seconds. “Partnering with Chris marks a monumental milestone for us,” said Samantha Faiers, Co-Founder of Revive Collagen. “He's a true pioneer in the hair and beauty industry, with unmatched passion and dedication. His commitment to empowering people to feel their best resonates deeply with our core values at Revive Collagen. It's why we love him - not only for his expertise but also for embodying the charm of a true British gent.” Revive Collagen intends to use its partnership with Chris Appleton to not only inform about the visible skin improvements of incorporating collagen into your existing beauty routine but also to educate about the overall benefits of collagen for optimal health and wellness. "As someone deeply dedicated to maintaining a consistent skincare and wellness routine, I was thrilled to discover Revive Collagen,” said Chris Appleton. “This all-in-one supplement is a game changer, and the convenience of these delicious ready-to-drink sachets is a lifesaver for someone like me, who is always on the move. I am absolutely thrilled to introduce this revolutionary collagen supplement to my clients and fellow beauty enthusiasts across the United States. My partnership with Revive Collagen is poised to redefine beauty standards and elevate the way we care for ourselves, inside and out." Revive Collagen uses up to 10,000mg of Type 1 hydrolyzed marine collagen, which is the closest to the collagen naturally found in our bodies. It is also a critical factor in maintaining the elasticity and firmness of the skin, as well as the overall health of the hair and nails. Revive Collagen uses collagen in liquid form, which is superior in bioavailability compared to other forms of collagen, with up to 95% absorption rates. It’s also 20 times the strength of the average collagen tablet. All products are dairy-free, gluten-free, soy-free, and lactose-free, with no artificial sweeteners or colors. Revive Collagen’s ready-to-drink collagen range contains 14-day and 28-day packs, providing an all-in-one beauty shot that caters to various beauty and skin concerns: Original with 8,500mg of Type 1 hydrolyzed marine collagen, Aloe Vera, and Hyaluronic Acid in a citrus flavor Enhanced Plus with 10,000mg of Type 1 hydrolyzed marine collagen, Retinol (Vitamin A), and your daily essential vitamins B6, B12, C & D in a tropical flavor Revive Collagen is the ultimate convenient and stylish addition to anyone’s beauty and grooming routine, delivering tangible results to the skin, hair, and nails in just six to eight weeks with consistent daily use. Revive Collagen is available to purchase at www.saks.com. For more information, visit their website or for the latest updates, visit @ReviveCollagen. Hi-res images, interviews, and media samples are available upon request. ABOUT REVIVE COLLAGEN Launched in August 2020, Revive Collagen is a luxury liquid collagen brand containing high doses of type 1 hydrolyzed marine collagen to enhance beauty from within. specifically developed to enhance beauty from within. Proudly British with quality at its core, Revive Collagen offers uniquely formulated, ready-to-drink collagen, which delivers real results to the hair, skin, and nails within 6-8 weeks. Contact Details Revive Collagen Rachael White rachael@revivecollagen.com Six One Agency Khortlyn Cole khortlyn@six-one.com
November 09, 2023 11:00 AM Pacific Standard Time
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News ReleaseGraton Resort & Casino Celebrates 10th Anniversary
Graton Resort & Casino
Graton Resort & Casino (Graton), observing its first 10 years, opened in Rohnert Park on November 5, 2013, and has attracted more than 50 million visitors. With a full-time staff of approximately 2,000 team members, Graton Resort & Casino is the second largest corporate employer in Sonoma County. “As we celebrate our 10th anniversary, I’d like to acknowledge our dedicated team members who go above and beyond every day to make sure that our property is the best of the best,” said Greg Sarris, Chairman Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria. “When most organizations were experiencing the ‘Great Resignation’ during the COVID-19 pandemic, we saw the opposite happening here at Graton Resort & Casino. When our doors re-opened, 98% of team members returned. People make their careers at Graton.” Graton Resort & Casino team members enjoy some of the best benefits in California, including fully paid medical, dental and vision benefits, 401(k) retirement savings and comprehensive wellness programs. Graton Resort & Casino is a business enterprise of Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria. As such, the resort is committed to the Tribe’s mission of social justice. Innovative programs such as free legal assistance for team members on the path to US citizenship, ESL classes, organic food in the team member dining room, leadership training and fair wages, have become an example for other businesses in hospitality and gaming. “Our tribal culture has a strong ethos of taking care of one another,” Sarris said. “That is also true of our business enterprises.” Employee Testimonials Buoi Nguyen is a married father of two and left a job at a casino competitor to become slot shift manager at Graton when it opened in 2013. In 2017, he was promoted to slot operations manager. He enjoys the good pay and benefits, including a 401(k)-matching program, further growth potential and a supportive culture at Graton. “A lot of times, it's not always greener on the other side of the pasture, but I wanted to take a chance to move up in slots, so I did,” said Nguyen. “It was probably one of the best decisions I've ever made in my career and in my life.” Ernie Arnaga, Director of Facilities, has also been at Graton since it opened. When he first applied for a supervisor position, he did not get the job, but was offered a different position. Being Native American and wanting to support a Native owned business, he took the job at a big pay cut, knowing that he would be able to excel and show his worth. Arnaga was confident that he would be able to move up. “I did not expect to go as far as I have,” Arnaga says. “It’s been a wonderful ride, and I have been taken care of more than I can ever give back. Graton has become a second home for me, and I enjoy working with many different people.” He advanced to supervisor, then Engineering Manager and now Director of Facilities. “I hope to be here until I retire.” Graton Resort & Casino/Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria Contributions Graton Resort & Casino/Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria contributes millions of dollars annually to community organizations and causes. “We want to serve our community, and we feel it is our responsibility as stewards of the people and land in and around Sonoma County,” Sarris said. “We’ve given to local educational institutions, arts organizations, food banks, literacy organizations, historical groups, emergency relief and housing non-profits. I am so proud of our commitment to each other and to those who we can help. Together, we make a better life for those around us.” Graton Volunteer Days Graton team members can use a set amount of paid time each year for Volunteer Days. Organizations that have benefitted from this program include: Redwood Empire Food Bank Humane Society of Sonoma County Rohnert Park Animal Shelter Food for Thought COTS (Committee on the Shelterless) Palms Inn (shelter) City of Santa Rosa Creek Commission City of Rohnert Park Creeks Habitat for Humanity Tolay Park Graton Resort & Casino $1 Billion Expansion In June, the resort broke ground for a $1 billion expansion, including an additional hotel wing and expanded casino floor. The expansion of the property will employ 2,000 temporary union construction jobs and create 600 new Graton Resort & Casino team members. Graton Resort & Casino is already one of Sonoma County’s largest private employers. The $1 billion expansion project includes: A casino floor expansion adding 2,000 new slot machines, a new poker room and a new high-limit area. A five-story hotel wing with more than 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. For more information on Graton Resort & Casino or to book your stay, visit www.gratonresortcasino.com. ### MEDIA, PLEASE NOTE: To request further information and interviews or for additional images, please contact Brianne Miller at graton@landispr.com or (650) 575-7727. About Graton Resort & Casino Located in Sonoma County, Graton Resort & Casino has been a commanding presence among the rolling hills of Northern California's wine country since 2013. A business enterprise of 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. In June 2023, Graton Resort & Casino broke ground on a $1 billion expansion which will include new parking, a larger casino floor and resort buildings. For more information, please visit www.gratonresortcasino.com. Contact Details Landis Communications Inc. Brianne Miller +1 650-575-7727 graton@landispr.com Company Website https://www.gratonresortcasino.com/
November 09, 2023 08:01 AM Pacific Standard Time
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News ReleaseHow 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
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News ReleaseAmeriLife Gives Back Foundation Names Honor Flight Network as Inaugural Partner
AmeriLife
AmeriLife Group, LLC (“AmeriLife”), a national leader in developing, marketing, and distributing life and health insurance, annuities, and retirement planning solutions, announced today that its philanthropic arm, the AmeriLife Gives Back Foundation, has chosen the Honor Flight Network as its inaugural, national partner. Founded in 2022, the AmeriLife Gives Back Foundation honors the company’s legacy of giving while helping to connect its growing business, philanthropic and volunteer endeavors. The foundation – through donations of time, money and other resources – focuses on causes that enable the senior community in furtherance of AmeriLife’s commitment to helping people live longer, healthier lives. “As a values-driven company, giving back is in AmeriLife’s DNA and has been an important part of who we are for more than 50 years,” said Scott R. Perry, chairman and CEO of AmeriLife. “I’m incredibly excited that we’re joining forces with the Honor Flight Network, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for our partnership.” The Honor Flight Network is a national nonprofit that honors America’s military veterans – especially those who served during World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War – by bringing them, free of charge, to Washington, D.C. to visit the memorials that commemorate their sacrifice and service. Since 2005, Honor Flight Network has transported more than 300,000 veterans from all 50 states and Puerto Rico to our nation’s capital, and continues to expand its network of more than 125 hubs across the country in an effort to serve even more veterans and their families. In doing so, the Honor Flight Network and its partners deliver gratitude and appreciation for veterans’ contributions to our freedoms, offering them an opportunity to meet other veterans, remember the fallen, and share their stories and experiences. “Honor Flight Network is tremendously grateful for the generous support from AmeriLife,” said Meredith Rosenbeck, CEO of Honor Flight Network. “We are fortunate to call them a valued partner, recognizing and validating our important mission to honor America’s heroes. In joining forces with Honor Flight, AmeriLife is setting the standard of giving with gratitude, and we look forward to a rewarding partnership ahead.” “We’re privileged to be counted among Honor Flight Network’s partners and look forward to a long and rewarding relationship,” added Jim Quinn, Chief Financial Officer for AmeriLife. “Today’s donation opens up exciting opportunities for AmeriLife’s employees and partners to volunteer in support of future Honor Flight Network trips, helping to create memorable experiences for so many of our nation’s heroes.” For more information on the Honor Flight Network and to support its mission directly, donate or volunteer today at HonorFlight.org. To learn more about the AmeriLife Gives Back Foundation, visit us online at AmeriLife.com/GivesBack. ### About Honor Flight Network The Honor Flight Network was formed in 2005 with a mission of honoring our nation’s veterans by bringing them to Washington, DC to visit the memorials and monuments dedicated to their service and sacrifice. The Honor Flight Network is currently comprised of over 130 hubs throughout the country dedicated to carrying out the Honor Flight mission. In addition to World War II veterans, the organization transports those who served in the Korean War, Vietnam War, intermediary operations, and in special cases of terminal illness or injury, veterans from more recent service eras. Since 2005, the Honor Flight Network has taken more than 250,000 veterans to Washington D.C. For more information, visit honorflight.org. About AmeriLife AmeriLife’s strength is its mission: to provide insurance and retirement solutions to help people live longer, healthier lives. In doing so, AmeriLife has become recognized as a leader in developing, marketing, and distributing life and health insurance, annuities and retirement planning solutions to enhance the lives of pre-retirees and retirees across the United States. For more than 50 years, AmeriLife has partnered with top insurance carriers to provide value and quality to customers served through a distribution network of over 300,000 insurance agents and advisors and 120 marketing organizations and insurance agency locations nationwide. For more information, visit AmeriLife.com, and follow AmeriLife on Facebook and LinkedIn. Contact Details AmeriLife Jeff Maldonado +1 321-297-1112 jmaldonado@amerilife.com Honor Flight Network Marion Watkins +1 202-302-4937 mwatkins@honorflight.org Company Website https://amerilife.com/
November 09, 2023 10:00 AM Eastern Standard Time
News ReleaseThe 8wonder Winter Festival reveals 11 hit songs and Viet Nam’s top artists performing with Maroon 5
VinFast Auto
PHU QUOC, VIETNAM - Media OutReach - 9 November 2023 - 8Wonder Winter Festival, co-organized by VinFast and VinWonders, today announces that 8Wonder Winter Festival will showcase a unique integrated visual art stage setup to support Maroon 5 for the highly anticipated show. This news comes as 8Wonder Winter Festival exclusively reveals Maroon 5 will play a full set that includes 11 of their record-breaking hits will feature in Phu Quoc. Vinpearl is also delighted to announce the top Vietnamese artists performing at the festival this year. When taking the stage on December 16 in Phu Quoc, Maroon 5 will play a full setlist for more than 75 minutes, including global hits like This Love, Moves Like Jagger, One More Night, Sugar, Don't Wanna Know, Sunday Morning, Girls Like You, Memories, Animals, Maps, She Will Be Loved, and more. Supporting Maroon 5 will be contemporary Vietnamese (Vbiz) stars, including Toc Tien, Justatee, Phuong Ly, Double 2T, Gray D and DJ 2Pillz. Every performance at the 8Wonder Winter Festival ranging from Rap, R&B, Pop, Rock and Soul will offer a lively, colourful and spontaneous musical atmosphere that will captivate 12,000 spectators with "Infinity Wonder." In addition to this feast of musical talent, the visual stage concept of the 8Wonder Winter Festival 2023 will also add to the creative setting. The stage at Tropicana Square will provide an integrated visual art installation to augment and elevate each musical act. Việt Nam’s own brand of contemporary music festival is ready to take the spotlight and become globally recognised as it combines the "world pop-rock monument" with A-list artists of the Vietnamese music scene. In addition to this, the "Twilight till First Light" theme offers the audience hundreds of unique "festivals within a festival" experiences, continuing from dusk to dawn. From 3pm on December 16, visitors can participate in festive activities at the dedicated dining and entertainment complex, Grand World. These activities include a street food festival, the Wake Up Santa Parade, fire dancing and street circus performances, festival-themed face painting and many more. Also, following the climax of 8Wonder are a series of after-party activities: the Gondola aristocratic boat race festival, Wake Up Camping by the beach, the Corona-by-night after-party and an immersive laser light show at the Love Lake. Supporting this festive season, visitors can also check in with a range of lively activities at Phu Quoc United Center: an 8Wonder-themed mermaid show, the Wonder Eco Christmas featuring amusing parades, the Waikiki Water Battle with water games, vibrant DJ music, or exploring the showcase zone, experiencing electric cars and receiving surprising gifts. By featuring a world-class immersive "festival of festivals" musical journey that transcends time and space, the 8Wonder Winter Festival will be a key catalyst in elevating Phu Quoc United Center and Phu Quoc island as the "most sought-after festive destination" on the world tourism map. Contact Details VinFast Media Contact v.chidqd1@vingroup.net Company Website https://8thwonder.vn/
November 09, 2023 08:40 AM Eastern Standard Time
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News ReleaseThree Cryptos That Traders Are Buying Today: Ripple, Everlodge and PancakeSwap
Total Media
According to the on-chart data, Ripple (XRP), PancakeSwap (CAKE), and Everlodge (ELDG) are three cryptocurrencies that are showcasing a buy sign on the chart today. Each crypto is showcasing a solid level of momentum and is trading high into the green zone. But just what kind of returns can they provide? To find out, we will go over each one of them individually. Summary Ripple can rise in value to $1.26 by the end of 2023 PancakeSwap to increase in value to $3.04 by the end of Q4 Everlodge is projected to grow 30x at launch Ripple (XRP) to climb to $1.26 by the end of 2023 Ripple (XRP) also showcased a bullish performance on the daily chart. Specifically, the crypto increased by 12% in the last 24 hours. However, Ripple is also up 38.2% on the monthly chart, signifying positive market sentiment. During the past week, the XRP crypto traded between $0.568484 and $0.725864 in value. Currently, the Ripple market cap is at $38,811,782,186, making it the fifth largest crypto. Based on the current on-chart data, the Ripple price prediction places it at a value of $1.26 by the end of 2023. PancakeSwap to surge in value to $3.04 by the end of 2023 PancakeSwap (CAKE) is trading into the green zone after significantly increasing in value. During the past 14 days, the PancakeSwap crypto is up 104.6% in value. Moreover, during the past week, the crypto saw its low point at $1.22, with its high point at $2.43. In addition, the PancakeSwap market cap is at $549,279,108, making it the 82nd largest crypto. Based on this level of momentum, it's showcasing a buy signal. According to the PancakeSwap price prediction, it can surge to $3.04 by the end of 2023. Everlodge (ELDG) to feature a dedicated Launchpad But Ripple and PancakeSwap were not the only two cryptos to grab attention. Everlodge is an upcoming real estate marketplace that can enable anyone the opportunity to engage with the real estate market starting with a low cost, whilst also getting passive income. The upcoming marketplace will feature unique blockchain technology that can disrupt the industry completely. Each property will get digitized and then minted as an NFT. What this means is that instead of paying millions of dollars to own a property, investors can co-own it at just $100. This way, whenever the property is rented out, they can get capital passively. In addition, there is a dedicated Launchpad through which property builders can raise capital from the community. However, early investors in these projects can get massive ROI. ELDG is the native crypto that can be staked for passive income as well, but it can also be used for governance. Now, during Stage 6 of the presale, the token is offered at $0.023. At launch, analysts project that the cryptocurrency can climb in value by 30x upon its listing on Tier-1 CEXs. As a result, it also showcases a buy signal on the daily chart. Visit Everlodge Contact Details Everlodge Media Team media@everlodge.io
November 08, 2023 02:00 PM Eastern Standard Time
News ReleaseCigar 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
News ReleaseThe genesis of stone, explores the beauty of Hualien stone sculptures
Hualien County Cultural Affairs Bureau
HUALIEN, TAIWAN - Media OutReach - 8 November 2023 - Located on the east coast of Taiwan, Hualien is rich in stone and minerals. This unique geology forms the renowned Taroko Gorge, Qingshui Cliff, and Qixingtan Beach, attracting domestic and foreign visitors to its majestic scenery. The stone of Hualien is the DNA of the city, integrated into daily life, with stone lining the pedestrian walkways, transportation shelters, collage and mosaic walls, to its community of stone factories, art merchants, sculptors, and artist studios. This vibrant stone culture informs the eminent “Hualien International Stone Sculpture Festival.” The 2023 edition of “Hualien International Stone Sculpture Festival” is titled “STONEVERSE,” symbolizing the thousands of possibilities of stone like the stars in the universe, beyond its existence as a material. The main event “Symposium” invites 10 sculptors for a month-long residency from September 30 to October 29, including Jean-Paul Chablais (France), Vincent Beaufils (France), Marino Di Prospero (Italy), Francesco Mazzotta (Italy), Raphael Beil (Germany), Roland Hoeft (Germany), Albena Mihaylova (Bulgaria), Zdravko Zdravkov (Bulgaria), Behnam Akharbin Moghanlo (Iran), Hedayat Sahraei (Iran). After 28 years of operation through “Symposium,” Hualien has in its collection 180 large-scale stone sculptures created by artists from various countries. At the conclusion of their work, stone is granted life and faceted as precious gems, integrated into the majestic scenery of Hualien, awaiting its visitors. The thematic exhibition “Detonation of Essence and Form” in a series of events will be on view at the Hualien County Stone Sculptural Museum until December 24. With works from 14 artists from Taiwan, China, South Africa, Japan, South Korea, among others, the exhibition aims to showcase diverse and contemporary perspectives on stone sculpture and material across generations, covering stone sculpture, metal casting, photography, video installation, imaging, melamine board, paper pulp, and furniture design. Through consistent revisitation and interpretation of classic values, “stone sculpture” as a traditional art also continually renews itself. “Hualien International Stone Sculpture Festival” is a bridge between Hualien and the world, not only in creating an exceptional space for outstanding stone sculptors from all over the world, but also sharing the beauty of Hualien with the world, and collecting the essence of stone sculpture in Hualien for our understanding and appreciation. Contact Details Tsai Yung Fu hualienvisualart@gmail.com
November 08, 2023 08:00 AM Eastern Standard Time
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