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Introducing Birdcage Lounge: Orange County’s Newest Queer Haven

Full Scope PR

Birdcage Lounge, the latest addition to Orange County’s vibrant nightlife scene, has officially opened its doors. Nestled next to the renowned STRUT Bar & Club, Birdcage Lounge promises an unforgettable experience for the LGBTQ+ community and allies alike. At Birdcage Lounge, patrons can expect an array of Instagram-worthy cocktails served with a unique twist - think inflatable flamingos and a burst of color in every glass. As the only gay-owned and operated nightlife venues in Orange County, Birdcage Lounge proudly stands as a beacon of inclusivity and diversity in the heart of Southern California. Behind this groundbreaking concept is Luke Nero, the visionary owner and creative director of STRUT club. With a passion for pushing boundaries and creating spaces that celebrate queer culture, Nero’s latest venture is set to redefine Orange County’s nightlife scene. As a recent addition to the board of OC PRIDE, Nero is committed to shaking up the status quo in what was once a conservative county, one fabulous venue at a time. Step inside Birdcage Lounge and be transported to a world inspired by the vibrant energy of 90s Miami. From neon lights to giant pink palm trees, every corner of this chic and sophisticated cocktail lounge is designed to evoke a sense of nostalgia and excitement. Plus, don’t miss the outdoor patio mirror room installation, adding a mesmerizing and visually stunning element to the Birdcage Lounge experience. Whether you’re sipping on a signature cocktail or capturing the perfect photo moment, Birdcage Lounge promises an experience like no other. Join us as we celebrate the grand opening of Birdcage Lounge - where every night is a celebration of love, acceptance, and the vibrant spirit of the LGBTQ+ community. For more information, visit Birdcage Lounge at www.strutoc.com/birdcage or follow us on Instagram @birdcageloungeoc Address: 723 W 19th St Costa Mesa, CA92627 Hours of Operation: 7:00 pm - 2:00 am Wednesday - Saturday Contact Details STRUT Bar & Club Luke Nero +1 917-386-7015

March 13, 2024 06:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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BANDCAMP ANNOUNCES 2024 BANDCAMP FRIDAY SCHEDULE

Bandcamp

Bandcamp, an online record store and the world’s largest music platform that connects over 5 million artists with over 47 million fans, has announced the 2024 Bandcamp Fridays schedule. Having already produced two successful Fridays this year, Bandcamp has pre-announced six more dates including April 5th, the 40th Bandcamp Friday on May 3rd, September 6th, October 4th and December 6t h. Bandcamp Fridays began in 2020 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic with the aim to assist artists when venues were shut down, resulting in the loss of vital tour revenue. On Bandcamp Fridays, Bandcamp waves their revenue share and gives 100% funds to the artists and labels - which has resulted in millions of fans paying over $120 million directly to labels and musicians they love. Bandcamp Fridays are a natural extension of the platform’s ‘artist-first mission’, allowing fans and labels to easily discover new artists and continue to support the artists they do every single day; with 90% of sales on Bandcamp Fridays coming from fans who regularly purchase music throughout the year. Bandcamp has seen countless stories of artists following their passions and using the platform to build their fan base and ultimately getting their break with support from a label who wants to take them to the next level. On Bandcamp Fridays, fans “follow” artists at three times the rate they follow them on a regular day. It’s no wonder The Los Angeles Times called Bandcamp, “The only music platform that everyone likes” and The Guardian dubbed Bandcamp “Heroes.” To learn more about Bandcamp: www.bandcamp.com About Bandcamp Bandcamp is an online record store and music community where passionate fans discover, connect with, and directly support the artists they love. It has generated over $1.3 billion in revenue for the Artists who sell directly to over 47 million fans from around the world. Bandcamp has played an important part in the lives of over 5 million artists, providing them with a direct connection to fans and enabling them to generate more income than any other platform. Bandcamp is a remarkable example of a community based business that has grown and sustained itself focusing on an artist first model that also maintains equitable participation among artists and fans. Contact Details Jalila Singerff +1 613-614-6777 jalila@jiveprdigital.com

March 12, 2024 12:02 PM Pacific Daylight Time

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SIGMA Cine Lenses Chosen as Benchmark for Giant Screen Cinema Association’s Camera Assessment Test

SIGMA CORPORATION OF AMERICA

SIGMA Corporation of America, a leading camera and lens manufacturer for both photography and cinema applications, is proud to announce that its SIGMA 65mm T1.5 FF Cine Prime was selected as the benchmark cine lens for the Giant Screen Cinema Association’s (GSCA) Camera Assessment Test (CAT). Results of the CAT were unveiled today during the Filmmakers Symposium portion of the GSCA Film Expo, held March 11-13 at the AMC Citywalk IMAX Theater & Universal City Hilton. A team of cinematography professionals — led by renowned cinematographer James Neihouse, ASC and Michael Daut, co-chair of the GSCA Innovations Committee — conducted an extensive test to showcase the strengths of six higher-than-6K-resolution cameras. The objective was to provide filmmakers with invaluable information on how each camera performs in challenging shooting situations. This groundbreaking test involved a wide range of cameras, lenses, shooting scenarios, and locations. “The evaluation required lenses that provided sharp, clean, crisp images while being as ‘neutral’ as possible,” said James Neihouse, ASC. “We chose the SIGMA 65mm T1.5 FF Cine Prime lens for its exceptional corner to corner sharpness and ability to cover a full frame (Vista Vision) size sensor. In Giant Screen documentaries, we like an image that is as close to reality as possible, which is why we liked this SIGMA lens. Other lenses were considered but rejected for bringing their own ‘look’ to the images.” “We are honored that the GSCA selected the SIGMA 65mm T1.5 FF Cine Prime as the benchmark lens to assess these leading Cine cameras in the most demanding real-world situations,” reports Mark Amir-Hamzeh, President of SIGMA America. “ and this demonstrates SIGMA’s dedication to crafting exceptionally high-performing lenses for filmmaking.” Six cameras went through rigorous testing which examined sensor size and resolution, sensor space, compression, dynamic range, log space, RAW capture, lens mount, recording media, usability, reliability, flexibility, and support. The six selected cameras were ARRI Alexa 35, Canon R5C, Kinefinity MAVO Edge 8K, RED V Raptor XL, SONY A1 and SONY Venice 2. About Giant Screen Cinema Association (GSCA) GSCA is the essential organization that supports, grows, fortifies, and sustains the international network of premium giant screen theaters and content creators to provide immersive, transformational, educational, cinematic experiences. GSCA’s membership includes more than 200 organizations in over 20 countries and includes museums, science centers, and other institutions with giant screen theaters; production and postproduction professionals; content distributors; manufacturers; service providers; and other related businesses from around the world. GSCA is a member-driven organization with a full-time staff that works to meet the association’s needs and promote its members’ interests. About SIGMA Corporation of America SIGMA Corporation of America, founded in 1984, is the US subsidiary of SIGMA Corporation, a family-owned manufacturer of lenses, cameras, and photo accessories. Headquartered in Ronkonkoma, NY, SIGMA America expanded its US operations in 2018 with the opening of SIGMA Burbank, a multifunctional showroom, event space and repairs/distribution facility located in the heart of the Los Angeles entertainment industry. Craftsmanship. Precision. Dedication. Since 1961, SIGMA has been devoted to the pursuit of advancing photographic technology. Unique to the industry, the family-owned business produces its high-quality, award-winning still photo and cinema camera lenses, DSLR and mirrorless cameras, flashes, filters, and accessories from its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located in Aizu, Japan. ### For information about SIGMA America, please visit sigmaphoto.com and SIGMA Blog for helpful information about our products. Follow SIGMA America on social media! SIGMA Photo: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram SIGMA Cine: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Contact Details Jack Howard +1 631-201-7381 sigma.pr@sigmaphoto.com SDDPR Stacey Doss stacey@sddpr.com Company Website https://www.sigmaphoto.com/

March 12, 2024 09:00 AM Pacific Daylight Time

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MHTN Launches: The First 24/7 Mental Health Streaming Network

Mental Health Television Network

The Mental Health Television Network (MHTN) officially launches today, marking a groundbreaking moment as the world's first 24/7 streaming platform dedicated exclusively to mental health news, education, and resources. MHTN aims to revolutionize the conversation around mental well-being, providing reliable information from medical experts, reducing stigma, and empowering individuals seeking support. "The need for greater awareness and accessible mental health resources has never been more urgent," states Kieran Clarke, Co-Founder and CEO of MHTN. "With MHTN, we're creating a comprehensive, trustworthy hub where viewers can find accurate information, inspiring stories, and tools to enhance their mental health journeys." "MHTN isn't just about watching; it's about engaging viewers to connect, learn, and find pathways to support," says Troy McGuire, Founder & President. "This platform gives a voice to the millions whose experiences with mental health often remain in the shadows." The network's leadership includes Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Daniel Bober, a distinguished psychiatrist dedicated to responsible, medically informed approaches to mental health content. "MHTN provides a vital opportunity to combat misinformation and harmful stereotypes around mental health," says Dr. Bober. "We will always prioritize evidence-based perspectives and empowering those dealing with mental health challenges." MHTN's diverse programming will feature documentaries, in-depth interviews with experts, news coverage of mental health developments, spotlights on community initiatives, wellness workshops, and more. It boasts a unique partnership structure with leading mental health organizations, ensuring content aligns with the latest research and best practices. Key Features of MHTN: Live & On-Demand Programs: News roundups, documentaries, expert panels. Interactive Resource Hub: National hotline directory, support group finders, therapist locators. Social Media Integration: Live Q&A sessions and hashtag campaigns promoting dialogue. Partnerships: Collaborations with leading mental health advocacy groups for greater impact. How to Watch: MHTN will soon be available through major streaming services and apps and as a direct subscription offering. Visit www.mhtn.org for more information. ### About Mental Health Television Network (MHTN): MHTN is a groundbreaking media platform dedicated to transforming how we understand and address mental health. Utilizing the power of media, MHTN's mission is to increase awareness, provide information, and cultivate open conversations about mental well-being. Contact Details Mental Health Television Network Kieran Clarke +1 971-226-1749 kieran@mhtn.org Company Website https://www.mhtn.org

March 12, 2024 10:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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ASSOCIATION OF PICKLEBALL PLAYERS AND UTR SPORTS LAUNCH NATIONWIDE PICKLEBALL LEAGUES

AOPP

The Association of Pickleball Players (APP) and UTR Sports have announced a groundbreaking new initiative for millions of recreational pickleball players across the nation—the creation of APP UTR Sports Pickleball Leagues. Pickleball players, league coordinators, and facility operators are encouraged to sign up now to receive additional details for the inaugural season at theapp.global/pickleball-leagues. With nearly 50 million adult Americans playing pickleball, APP UTR Sports Pickleball Leagues now offers athletes of all ages and abilities the opportunity to form teams and compete head-to-head in their local communities. It establishes the largest grassroots team pickleball competition ever. Registration will open on the UTR Sports software platform in spring for the 2024 season, culminating with the APP UTR Sports Pickleball Leagues National Championships in December 2024 at The Fort, the APP’s headquarters in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. “APP UTR Sports Pickleball Leagues is an unprecedented pickleball competition that builds on our commitment to making pickleball an inclusive sport for all,” said APP EVP - Competition, Melissa McCurley. “The APP is already well-established as the premier entity for professional and amateur players in the U.S. and worldwide. This national network expands on that as an accessible, local format for the millions of new pickleball players regardless of their skill level and age. Playing in a tournament for the first time can be intimidating, but APP UTR Sports Pickleball Leagues are an approachable entry to organized pickleball competition that you can play with your friends at your local court.” “We are excited to announce the expansion around our partnership with the APP with the launch of pickleball leagues,” said Mark Leschly, Chairman and CEO of UTR Sports. “As APP’s official and exclusive technology for ratings and rankings, harnessing our technology platform for events and leagues naturally furthers our mission to grow level-based pickleball play for everyone.” Pickleball players across the United States will be invited to form teams and compete at the local and national level to be crowned national champions. Divisions within each league feature competitions for men’s, women’s, and mixed doubles teams among three age groups (ages 39 and below, 40-59, and 60 and older) and three skill levels using the UTR Pickleball Rating: recreational, intermediate, and advanced. Below are key dates for the 2024 season of APP UTR Sports Pickleball Leagues: Spring: Registration opens Early Summer: Summer Session begins Summer: Registration re-opens for Fall Session Fall: Fall Session begins December 7-10: APP Leagues National Championships at The Fort in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Each team will be comprised of a minimum of six and a maximum of 16 players. Team captains will be elected to organize team rosters, coordinate scheduling, and secure a venue for home matches. Venues can include park districts, country clubs, indoor tennis clubs, private courts, or any other local area approved by APP UTR Sports Pickleball Leagues. This initiative builds on the APP’s authority as the catalyst and steward of pickleball, providing opportunities for pickleball players of all ages and skill levels through a robust slate of playing formats. It joins the APP’s calendar of world-class pickleball events, which offer the opportunity to win prize money and be seen on internationally televised broadcasts. More information about the APP, its initiatives, and the full 2024 competition schedule are available on theapp.global. More information about UTR Sports, its ratings, and technology solutions for pickleball providers and players, is available on utrsports.net. Behind-the-scenes access and player content are also available by following the APP and UTR Sports on Instagram, X, Threads, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. # # # Media Note: The APP offers its library of pickleball photos and b-roll to media for use in pickleball-related articles and news stories. Please click here to view and download files, with credit given to the Association of Pickleball Players. About the APP: The Association of Pickleball Players (APP) provides opportunities for pickleball players of all ages and skill levels—professionals, amateurs and recreational—to compete in world-class pickleball events for the opportunity to win prize money and be seen on internationally televised broadcasts. The APP was founded in 2019 and operates the first and only tour fully and officially sanctioned by USA Pickleball. In 2023, it held 19 events across the country and supported five international tournaments. The APP prides itself on developing the next generation of pickleball champions through its APP Next Gen Series, the APP Next Gen National Team and other youth initiatives. The 2024 schedule, recent news and additional information about the APP are available at theapp.global and on Instagram, X, Threads, TikTok, Facebook and LinkedIn. About UTR Sports: The mission of UTR Sports, formerly Universal Tennis, is to connect and grow the sports of tennis and pickleball with accurate global ratings, innovative events, and a global community centered around level-based play. The UTR Sports Platform is anchored by our patented ratings technology. UTR Sports provides the technology tools and solutions relevant and valuable to players, coaches, and organizers. UTR Sports is creating opportunities and pathways, including the UTR Pro Tennis Tour, for players from all over the world, in all stages of life, to find better matches and unlock a more fun, affordable, and flexible experience. Media Contacts: Daniel Sagerman at the APP, dsagerman@theapp.global or 847-800-8182. Ben Makarenko at UTR Sports, bmakarenko@universaltennis.com or 416-618-0422. The Association of Pickleball Players (APP) provides opportunities for pickleball players of all ages and skill levels—professionals, amateurs and recreational—to compete in world-class pickleball events for the opportunity to win prize money and be seen on internationally televised broadcasts. The APP was founded in 2019 and operates the first and only tour fully and officially sanctioned by USA Pickleball. In 2023, it held 19 events across the country and supported five international tournaments. The APP prides itself on developing the next generation of pickleball champions through its APP Next Gen Series, the APP Next Gen National Team and other youth initiatives. The 2024 schedule, recent news and additional information about the APP are available at theapp.global and on Instagram, X, Threads, TikTok, Facebook and LinkedIn. Contact Details Association of Pickleball Players (APP) Daniel Sagerman +1 847-800-8182 dsagerman@theapp.global Company Website https://theapp.global

March 08, 2024 12:00 PM Eastern Standard Time

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Blackbird CEO Ian McDonough discusses 2023 achievements and launch of elevate.io

Blackbird PLC

Blackbird PLC CEO Ian McDonough joins Proactive's Stephen Gunnion with insights into the company's 2023 performance and upcoming milestones. McDonough described 2023 as a year of progress, highlighting Blackbird's significant presence in major sporting events due to its unparalleled speed and stability as a video editor. The company's technology was employed across numerous high-profile sports events, including all Tennis Grand Slams, the Super Bowl, the Women's World Cup, the Ryder Cup, and the Rugby World Cup, with plans to extend its use to the Summer Games in 2024. The discussion also introduced elevate.io, a new product aimed at the creator economy, which is a level below the professional sphere where Blackbird operates. Designed with input from 300 potential users, elevate.io targets independent filmmakers, podcasters, corporate video creators, and others within a market valued at approximately $250 billion, according to Goldman Sachs, expected to grow to $500 billion by 2027. The specific segment for tools and services is anticipated to expand from $20 billion to $180 billion by 2030. To support elevate.io 's growth, Blackbird has welcomed a new director, Anne de Kerckhove, and raised over a million pounds. The product, due for general release at the end of March, will start as a freemium model and aims to build a user community through its multiplayer and collaborative features, leveraging AWS for scalability. For 2024, McDonough foresees a pivotal period of learning from the market and community feedback to refine and expand elevate.io's offerings, with a focus on agile development based on user needs. Contact Details Proactive UK Proactive UK +44 20 7989 0813 UKEditorial@proactiveinvestors.com

March 08, 2024 11:04 AM Eastern Standard Time

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US Masters Tournament Schedule 2024 - Dates, Times, and Rounds

Acroud Media

The first major golfing tournament of the year is just a few weeks away as the best golfers in the world come together at Augusta National for the US Masters. Taking place from April 8th up until the 14th, the excitement among sports fans is building to see who will be sporting the iconic green jacket. Below, we have provided a breakdown of the week of exciting golfing action from the Masters from the practice round through to the final day. Continue reading below for everything you need to know. Monday & Tuesday, April 8-9: Practice Rounds Kickstarting the event is the practice rounds, where the players explore the course and work on their game in preparation for the main event. It is also one of the very few opportunities that cameras are allowed on the course to get some pictures of the pros. Wednesday, April 10th: Par 3 Contest The Par 3 contest takes place on a separate 9-hole/par-27 course that is located on the northeast corner of Augusta National. The players tend to have members of their family, and sometimes their children caddy for them in this contest, a nice family affair that is part competition, part stress relief. This is content that helps settle some players and prepares them for the start of the first tournament the following day. Thursday, April 11th: First Round of the Masters, 8am Start Thursday, 8am, the big day. The first day of the first tournament round kicks off. Starting with a tournament tradition of an honorary tee-off to mark the start of the Masters. Last year saw Tom Watson, Jack Nicklaus, and Gary Player take part. Now it is time for what everyone has been waiting for as the full field of golfing greats gets started. Friday, April 12th: Second Round of the Masters, 8am Start After the first tournament round, Friday sees the action continue as the players compete in the second round, usually around the course in threesomes. This is the start of the tournament crunch time, with only the top 50 scorers making it beyond this day, or those within 10 strokes of the leader will advance into the third round on Saturday. Saturday, April 13th: Third Round of the Masters, 10am Start There is a slightly later start for the players on Saturday as the third round gets started. Based on their scores so far, the players will tee off in reverse order in the third round. The golfers furthest behind the leader begin the day, with the closest to the leaders teeing off later throughout the day. Typically, the Saturday and Sunday rounds are played with two players per group. Sunday, April 14th: Final Day of the US Masters, 10am Start The big day, the final day of the US Masters. Who will be crowned Masters champion and claim that green jacket? The leaders will tee off around 2-3pm in the afternoon, and the actions aim to be concluded by 7pm when the presentation of the iconic green jacket is started and given to the Masters champion. FAQs Who won the 2023 Masters Tournament? Last year's US Masters tournament was won by Jon Rahm. The Spaniard secured his first green jacket and second career major with a performance that made it look like just another day on the golf course. You can wager on who you will think will win the US Masters 2024 here with the best golf betting sites. Has anyone won back-to-back masters? Yes - three golfers have secured back-to-back Master’s championships: Jack Nicklaus, Nick Faldo, and Tiger Woods. Jon Rahm will be hoping to add his name to that list this year and become the fourth. What player has won the most Masters tournaments? Guest at the 2023 Masters on the first day of the tournament, taking part in the honorary tee-off, Jack Nicklaus is the player who has won the most Masters tournaments, having won 6 times. Contact Details Acroud Media info-media@acroudmedia.com

March 08, 2024 09:30 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Video: Jeff Dunham Pops Wheelies in Dodge SRT Demon 170 with Salvaggio Design

Salvaggio Design

While millions of people know comedian, ventriloquist and actor Jeff Dunham, they might be unaware he’s a certified car guy with an impressive collection assembled over the years. “It all started with Hot Wheels,” Dunham explained in the latest video from muscle car builder, Dave Salvaggio. The latest addition to the Dunham collection is the Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 – the final edition of the Hemi-powered hot rods from Dodge, boasting 1025hp. Dunham owns car #0013, which is the same number as the original Demon in his collection. “How do you resist having something like this?” Dunham reasoned. After purchasing a 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170, owners can specify a number of customized, limited-edition, serialized items that are linked to the VIN number of each vehicle. Among the complimentary items available through the Dodge//SRT Concierge team is a custom decanter set, personalized badging, car cleaning products, and even a two-day drag racing class. Owners wishing to take their Demon 170 to the track also have exclusive access to a number of optional performance parts, which were engineered and fabricated by Direct Connection. And with all the parts fitted to Dunham’s car, Dave Salvaggio invited the comedian to Irwindale Speedway near Los Angeles, allowing him to understand the vehicle’s dynamics and performance. “It’s a massively powerful car and drivers need to know how to use it safely and under control to get the maximum fun from their Demon 170,” Salvaggio explained. “We prepped the eighth-mile track and Jeff was doing wheelies almost immediately!” Salvaggio continued. “Wheelies are a characteristic of the Demon models but it’s vital drivers are prepared for it and able to control the car for their own safety and the safety of others.” Among the extra equipment fitted was the Direct Connection Parachute Mounting Kit and Pistol Grip Parachute Release. Required because of the Demon 170’s phenomenal performance potential, the Simpson parachute itself is available directly from Salvaggio Design, along with the seatbelt harnesses. Both carry the Demon logo and are not available from Direct Connection. However, a Harness Bar can be purchased from Direct Connection, fitting to the interior rollcage without any drilling or cutting, providing a solid anchor for the harnesses. The final addition was the Direct Connection Rear Seat Delete Carbon Fiber Closeout Panels. The package consisted of pre-preg carbon fiber pieces that reduce weight and improve the aesthetics of the rear seat area. Salvaggio custom-painted Dunham’s rear panel with Demon artwork, creating a unique appearance. “You can’t describe it – you’ve got to be in it!” Dunham proclaimed after his track time. “It’s a just massive amount of power. What adds to it is the sound and the feel and the smell.” With his Demon 170 fully equipped to dominate the drag strip, and the driver prepared to launch hard enough to pop the front wheels in the air, Dunham will never be late for his stand-up comedy shows! All owners of the Dodge SRT Demon 170 can obtain the same parts for their car by visiting dodgegarage.com/demon-170-owner-info. Owners wishing to obtain the parachute and harnesses should contact Salvaggio Design via salvaggiodesign.com. EDITOR’S NOTE High-resolution images are available here: dropbox.com/scl/fo/w5bba9lsy2ec19e7dlh4x/h?rlkey=ypp7omqixclp3w50k5gfch23s&dl=0 Please download and share the video here: dropbox.com/scl/fi/iq344uor4990i3qeivps9/jeff_dunham-s_demon_170_equipped_with_mopar_direct_connection_parts-1080p.mp4?rlkey=8eargd3cu60y8apfddcqzq0ao&dl=0 ABOUT SALVAGGIO DESIGN Wisconsin-based Dave Salvaggio was born into an Italian family that has been involved in automotive design, racing, and engineering since 1919. He established his own business in 2003 and currently holds five patents for carbon fiber manufacturing processes. As a car builder, he has been responsible for a string of award-winning SEMA muscle cars since 2006, with a number of vehicles appearing in Hollywood movies. Throughout his career, Dave has been fortunate to build very special cars for special people and embarked on the next chapter at Salvaggio Design with a new workshop and small team of dedicated craftsmen. His aim is to focus their collective passion into building bespoke vehicles that encapsulate the best design, modern components, and the customer’s vision. The team utilize modern techniques including in-house CAD design, 3D printing, carbon fiber production, and more. Visit salvaggiodesign.com for more information. Contact Details Dave Salvaggio dave@salvaggiodesign.com Company Website http://www.salvaggiodesign.com/

March 07, 2024 06:15 AM Pacific Standard Time

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Gen Z's Buying Power Unlocked Through Influencer Marketing and Gaming

MarketJar

Marketing has come a long way since its early days, but its basic concept remains– to promote a business’s products or services. In the past, marketers relied heavily on impersonal, broad campaigns such as print ads, TV commercials, and billboards. But times have changed and marketing to younger generations is a completely different ballgame. Gen Z already makes up a significant portion of the buyers shopping and purchasing from today’s businesses in every industry. Soon, they’ll become the largest group of consumers in the market overall. The problem is, effectively marketing to this “woke” generation can be challenging. Gen Z consumers have very different life experiences, buying habits, priorities and world views than previous generations. They’re also digital natives, spending an average of 2 hours and 55 minutes per day on social media, more than any other generation The secret weapon to captivating this influential cohort? Influencer marketing. Influencers on platforms like TikTok, Instagram and YouTube are not just entertainment; they play a pivotal role in Gen Z’s decision-making processes with approximately 45% of Gen Z consumers being influenced by these platforms. Just look at how brands like Crocs and Stanley have reinvented themselves through influencer collaborations, proving that direct consumer dialogue can turn a sleepy brand into a viral sensation. Rather than investing heavily in traditional advertising to engage Gen Z, Crocs CEO Terence Reilly tapped into the power of collaboration, allowing its consumers to lead the conversation. The brand partnered with influencers who created content showing their peers how to style the shoes, turning a once-mocked brand into a fashion statement. Reilly used the same technique at Stanley, transforming the 110-year old business into a $750 million titan with a massive social media presence. Video game streamers are also becoming valuable brand ambassadors as Gen Z swaps out traditional sports for video games. Esports, aka competitive video gaming, may have started out as a niche hobby but it has transformed into a global phenomenon and created a new category of celebrity influencers, some of which are signing deals bigger than NBA players. In 2024, the global esports market is expected to reach $2.5 billion in revenues with an audience of over 540 million. Sports teams and brands are taking note, teaming up with video game streamers to expand their audience and revenue streams. A prime example is the NBA 2K League, a professional gaming league centered around the NBA 2K video game series. This league, managed by the NBA, has not only attracted diverse players but also garnered substantial viewership. Several teams, like the Golden State Warriors and the Houston Rockets, own their own NBA 2K League franchises. Even Steph Curry is investing in this hot industry. Another company fully embracing the power of influencer marketing is OverActive Media (TSXV:OAM) (OTC:OAMCF), a global esports and entertainment company catering to today’s generation of fans. Through strategic acquisitions, OverActive Media has created a global esports powerhouse with a noteworthy roster of influencers and brand partnerships. OverActive Media Builds a Worldwide Esports Empire Boasting Over 100 Million Followers OverActive Media is Canada’s largest esports ownership group with a roster of wildly popular professional esports teams with a huge following, including the Toronto Ultra in Call of Duty League, the MAD Lions for the League of Legends EMEA Championship and the Toronto Defiant in the Overwatch Champion Series. OverActive Media (TSXV:OAM) (OTC:OAMCF) just completed the acquisition of Spanish Esports organizations KOI and Movistar Riders, catapulting its presence into rapidly expanding international markets with a treasure trove of unparalleled esports assets and over 100 million followers. KOI, co-founded by Twitch streamer Ibai Llanos and soccer legend Gerard Piqué, quickly became one of Europe's premier brands. Gerard Piqué initiated the Kings League, a highly followed sports channel on digital platforms with over 100 million views in 2023. OverActive Media has secured service contracts with both Ibai and Gerard. Movistar Riders, which competes in popular games such as League of Legends, CS2, VALORANT, and FIFA, brought with it a long-term multimillion dollar partnership with telecom leader Telefónica, which was renewed for another three years following the acquisition. KOI and Movistar are expected to add C$10 million to C$12 million in revenues in 2024 and further bolster OverActive Media 's rising viewership numbers. The newly formed MAD Lions KOI team has already seen record crowds, drawing 741,000 peak viewers in a regular season match during the League of Legends EMEA Championship (LEC) Winter Split in January. This was the highest viewership since summer 2021. Co-founder Ibai also contributed to this momentum, attracting over 4.7 million Twitch views, surpassing the 2.93 million viewers of the Succession series premiere. Another milestone was achieved on February 18 during the LEC, with a record 830,816 viewers, the highest ever for a regular season match. OverActive Media also just received the green light from Riot Games to compete in the VALORANT Champions Tour EMEA 2024 season. The company will operate as Movistar KOI alongside 9 other teams. This participation not only enhances fan engagement and draws in sponsorships but also paves the way for new revenue opportunities. Click here for more information about OverActive Media (TSXV:OAM) (OTC:OAMCF). [1] https://www.newyorker.com/culture/infinite-scroll/how-the-stanley-cup-went-viral [2] https://www.statista.com/outlook/amo/esports/worldwide#global-comparison [3] https://www.kemperlesnik.com/2020/10/why-athletes-are-investing-in-esports/ Disclaimer 1) The author of the Article, or members of the author’s immediate household or family, do not own any securities of the companies set forth in this Article. The author determined which companies would be included in this article based on research and understanding of the sector. 2) The Article was issued on behalf of and sponsored by, OverActive Media. Market Jar Media Inc. was paid $1,500 for the production and publishing of this article by OverActive Media’s Digital Marketing Agency of Record (Native Ads Inc.). Additional details relating to Market Jar Media Inc.’s engagement by OverActive Media’s Digital Marketing Agency of Record (Native Ads Inc.) are set out in https://pressreach.com/disclaimer-oam. 3) Statements and opinions expressed are the opinions of the author and not Market Jar Media Inc., its directors or officers. The author is wholly responsible for the validity of the statements. The author was not paid by Market Jar Media Inc. for this Article. Market Jar Media Inc. was not paid by the author to publish or syndicate this Article. Market Jar has not independently verified or otherwise investigated all such information. None of Market Jar or any of their respective affiliates, guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any such information. The information provided above is for informational purposes only and is not a recommendation to buy or sell any security. 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Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance and are based upon a number of estimates and assumptions of management in light of management’s experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, as well as other factors that management believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances, as of the date of this document including, without limitation, assumptions about: (a) the ability to raise any necessary additional capital on reasonable terms to execute OverActive Media’s business plan; (b) that general business and economic conditions will not change in a material adverse manner; (c) OverActive Media’s ability to procure equipment and operating supplies in sufficient quantities and on a timely basis; (d) OverActive Media’s ability to enter into contractual arrangements with additional parties; (e) the accuracy of budgeted costs and expenditures; (f) OverActive Media’s ability to attract and retain skilled personnel; (g) political and regulatory stability; (h) the receipt of governmental, regulatory and third-party approvals, licenses and permits on favorable terms; (i) changes in applicable legislation; (j) stability in financial and capital markets; and (k) expectations regarding the level of disruption to as a result of CV-19. 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Market Jar Media Inc. is neither an investment adviser nor a broker-dealer. The information presented on the website is provided for informative purposes only and is not to be treated as a recommendation to make any specific investment. No such information on PressReach.com constitutes advice or a recommendation. Contact Details James Young +1 800-340-9767 campaigns@pressreach.com Company Website https://pressreach.com

March 07, 2024 08:30 AM Eastern Standard Time

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