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ASTRO America Announces New Push to Establish Investment Fund for Small Businesses' 3D Printing Development

ASTRO America

Orringer and Gorey meet with top Biden-Harris administration officials and executives of GE Aerospace, Lockheed Martin, and Stifel to advance new public-private partnership ASTRO now talking with potential partners, investors On the heels of an historic meeting at the Pentagon, Neal Orringer, president of the Applied Science & Technology Research Organization of America ( ASTRO America ), lauded key government and industry partners in their efforts to ensure small U.S. Defense suppliers' access to capital and state-of-the-art additive manufacturing or 3D printing. The focus of the meeting was the potential establishment of a Small Business Investment Fund. "I want to thank the Deputy Secretary of Defense and SBA Administrator for hosting this important meeting with our AM Forward colleagues," said Neal Orringer, president of ASTRO. "Recognizing the fragility in America's supply chains, Lockheed Martin and GE are taking the lead in forming a public-private partnership to help provide small businesses with access to capital for additive manufacturing that will help re-onshore American manufacturing and provide economic development and jobs. If approved by the government to move forward, this fund will be a lifeline to help transition small businesses into 21st century manufacturing." ASTRO is the convener of parties and the implementer of AM Forward, helping partner companies support their suppliers’ adoption of additive manufacturing also known as 3D printing technology, in shops, plants, and factories across the nation. The initiative was launched by President Biden last May. Compact partners include Boeing, GE, Honeywell, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon Technologies, and Siemens Energy. A critical objective of the AM Forward initiative is investment in the full spectrum of the defense ecosystem that will leverage advanced manufacturing techniques to produce innovative capabilities. ASTRO is partnering with Stifel Financial, Lockheed, and GE to identify and potentially invest in lower middle market businesses working to increase American national security supply chain resilience while reducing production costs and timelines for critical components through additive manufacturing "We have secured commitments from strategic partners as anchor investors, and are now starting to approach other large aerospace and defense companies active in the additive and advanced manufacturing sectors, as well as more traditional financial investors,” said Jason Gorey, ASTRO’s Executive Director. “ASTRO helped inform the shape and strategy of the fund and views this as an opportunity for strategic investors to have an active role in helping to shape the future of US additive and advanced manufacturing, while also earning a direct return on their investment.” The meeting, convened in the Deputy Secretary of Defense's conference room, included: The Honorable Isabella Casillas Guzman, SBA Administrator The Honorable Kathleen Hicks, Deputy Secretary of Defense Ms. Bailey Devries, Associate Administrator of the SBA (OII) The Honorable Heidi Shyu, Under Secretary of Defense (R&E) Dr. Radha I. Plumb, Deputy Under Secretary (A&S) Dr. Jason Rathje, Director of the Office of Strategic Capital Dr. Joelle Gamble, Deputy NEC Director As well as executives: Ms. Amy Gowder, President & CEO of GE Aerospace Military Systems Mr. Frank St. John, Chief Operating Officer of Lockheed Martin Mr. Victor Nesi, President, Stifel Mr. Neal Orringer, President, ASTRO America Read a statement from Pentagon spokesman Eric Pahon regarding the meeting here. Read a release from the U.S. Small Business Association here. For more on AM Forward, click here. ### The Applied Science and Technology Research Organization of America (ASTRO America) is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit, non-partisan Research Institute and Think Tank. It was established in 2018 to advance the public interest through manufacturing technology and policy. Led by manufacturing professionals with broad public and private sector experience, ASTRO America supports collaborations by government agencies and companies to address supply chain challenges in highly regulated industries, including aerospace and defense. Find out more: https://www.astroa.org/ The Applied Science and Technology Research Organization of America (ASTRO America) is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit, non-partisan Research Institute and Think Tank. It was established in 2018 to advance the public interest through manufacturing technology and policy. Led by manufacturing professionals with broad public and private sector experience, ASTRO America supports collaborations by government agencies and companies to address supply chain challenges in highly regulated industries, including aerospace and defense. Find out more: https://www.astroa.org/ Contact Details Elizabeth Heaton +1 202-445-9858 elizabeth@astroa.org Company Website https://www.astroa.org

August 07, 2023 02:02 PM Eastern Daylight Time

News Release

Les partis politiques et la société civile s'unissent sous le nom de "NEXOS" pour plaider en faveur du changement en Guinée équatoriale

Nexos GE

7 août 2023, Madrid - D'éminentes personnalités de l'opposition et des activistes de la société civile de Guinée équatoriale ont lancé aujourd'hui NEXOS, une organisation créée pour dénoncer la violation systématique des droits de l'homme dans le pays et pour contester la négation de ces crimes par le régime du président Teodoro Obiang. NEXOS a été créée à la suite d'un séminaire organisé à Rivas Vacia-Madrid les 3 et 4 août pour évaluer la situation sociopolitique du pays à l'occasion du 44ème anniversaire de la dictature militaire d'Obiang. La plateforme NEXOS sera dirigée par Juan Carlos ONDO ANGUE, ancien président de la Cour suprême de justice de la Guinée équatoriale, et est composée du Mouvement pour l'autodétermination de l'île de Bioko (MAIB), du Mouvement pour la libération de la troisième République de Guinée équatoriale (MLGE 3R), de la Force républicaine démocratique (FDR) et de l'Association pour le développement de la Guinée équatoriale (ADGE), des partis Force républicaine démocratique (FDR) et Union pour la démocratie et le développement social (UDDS), ainsi que de personnalités renommées telles que Jesus MITOGO OYONO, député du parti Citoyens pour l'innovation (CI), l'écrivain Donato NDONGO-BIDYOGO, la défenseuse des droits LGBT Trifonia Melibea OBONO et le directeur de Radio Macuto Jose Maria OYONO ESENG. Juan Carlos ONDO ANGUE a déclaré: « Dans le contexte actuel de récession économique aggravée et de dégradation extrême des libertés politiques et sociales en Guinée équatoriale, les forces progressistes se sont réunies au sein de NEXOS pour dénoncer les violations systématiques des droits de l'homme perpétrées par le régime à l'encontre des dissidents. NEXOS luttera également contre le déni constant de ces crimes contre l'humanité par la dictature militaire au pouvoir, qui font partie d'une politique d'État menée depuis 44 ans sous le président Obiang et même pendant la dictature précédente de Macias Nguema Biyogo. « Avec des liens de plus en plus étroits avec la Chine et la Russie, le régime d'Obiang représente un risque non seulement pour l'avenir de la Guinée équatoriale, mais aussi pour la sécurité régionale et mondiale. Alors qu'Obiang cherche à perpétuer sa dictature par une succession dynastique, NEXOS, une coalition sans précédent, vise à faire prendre conscience à la communauté internationale de l'urgence d'une transition démocratique et pacifique en Guinée équatoriale ». Dans les semaines à venir, NEXOS prévoit de dévoiler ses principales priorités ainsi que les prochaines étapes sa campagne pour les droits de l'homme et la transition pacifique en Guinée équatoriale. Pour toute question, veuillez contacter: info@nexos-ge.org Informations sur la Guinée équatoriale: La Guinée équatoriale (GE) subit actuellement la dictature la plus longue et l'une des plus brutales au monde. Le président Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo a succédé à son oncle au pouvoir en 1979. Mais la santé du président étant chancelante, une transition démocratique est possible. Des rapports fondés sur les services de renseignement américains signalent que la Chine envisage d'établir dans le pays sa première présence militaire permanente dans l'océan Atlantique. La Guinée équatoriale est également l'un des pays où opère l'organisation paramilitaire Wagner Group, liée au gouvernement russe. Près de 200 soldats du groupe Wagner se trouveraient en Guinée équatoriale. La dynastie Obiang a présidé à des décennies de corruption et de violations des droits de l'homme. Son fils et actuel vice-président Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue sera le successeur probable d'Obiang. En France, une enquête de longue date sur les "biens mal acquis" a fait les gros titres de la presse. Plus de 100 objets de valeur et plusieurs biens immobiliers ont été saisis par les autorités françaises dans le cadre de leur enquête sur la corruption et les détournements de fonds. En Espagne, il a été rapporté que des membres haut placés du régime d'Obiang, y compris son fils et son vice-président, avaient prévu de tuer plusieurs dirigeants de l'opposition basés à Madrid. Des investisseurs espagnols ont également perdu des millions d'euros après avoir été escroqués et extorqués par des membres de la famille d'Obiang. Juan Carlos Ondo Angue est l'ancien président de la Cour suprême de justice de Guinée équatoriale. Avocat de formation, il s'est efforcé d'améliorer l'État de droit et la gouvernance en Guinée équatoriale et vit en exil en France depuis 2018. Contact Details Juan Carlos Ondo Angue info@nexos-ge.org

August 07, 2023 07:40 AM Eastern Daylight Time

News Release

Movimientos políticos y sociedad civil se unen bajo "NEXOS" para abogar por el cambio en Guinea Ecuatorial

Nexos GE

7 de agosto de 2023, Madrid - Destacadas figuras de la oposición y activistas de la sociedad civil de Guinea Ecuatorial han acordado hoy la formación de NEXOS, una organización creada para denunciar la violación sistemática de los derechos humanos en el país y desafiar la negación de estos crímenes por parte del régimen del Presidente Teodoro Obiang. NEXOS se constituyó al término de un seminario celebrado en Rivas Vacia-Madrid los días 3 y 4 de agosto para evaluar la situación sociopolítica del país con motivo del 44º aniversario de la dictadura militar de Obiang. La plataforma NEXOS estará encabezada por el eminente jurista Juan Carlos ONDO ANGUE, ex Presidente del Tribunal Supremo de Justicia, y está integrada por el Movimiento para la Autodeterminación de la Isla de Bioko (MAIB), el Movimiento para la Liberación de Guinea Ecuatorial Tercera República (MLGE 3R), los partidos Fuerza Republicana Democrática (FDR) y Unión para la Democracia y el Desarrollo Social (UDDS), así como personalidades públicas de renombre como Jesús MITOGO OYONO, diputado electo del partido Ciudadanos por la Innovación (CI), el escritor Donato NDONGO-BIDYOGO, la defensora de los derechos LGTB Trifonia Melibea OBONO y el director de Radio Macuto José María OYONO ESENG. Sobre la fundación de NEXOS, Juan Carlos ONDO ANGUE declaró: "En el actual contexto de recesión económica agravada y de extrema degradación de las libertades políticas y sociales en Guinea Ecuatorial, las fuerzas progresistas se han unido bajo NEXOS para denunciar las violaciones sistemáticas de los derechos humanos perpetradas por el régimen contra la disidencia. NEXOS también luchará contra la constante negación de estos crímenes contra la humanidad por parte de la dictadura militar imperante, que forman parte de una política de Estado llevada a cabo durante los últimos 44 años bajo la presidencia de Obiang e incluso durante la anterior dictadura de Macías Nguema Biyogo.” "Con sus crecientes lazos con China y Rusia, el régimen de Obiang supone un riesgo no sólo para el futuro de Guinea Ecuatorial, sino para la seguridad regional e internacional. Mientras Obiang pretende perennizar su dictadura mediante una sucesión dinástica, NEXOS, una coalición histórica y sin precedentes, busca concienciar a la comunidad internacional acerca de la urgencia de llevar a cabo una transición democrática y pacífica en Guinea Ecuatorial." En las próximas semanas, NEXOS tiene previsto desvelar sus próximos pasos y prioridades clave en su campaña por los derechos humanos y la transición pacífica en Guinea Ecuatorial. Para cualquier consulta, póngase en contacto con: info@nexos-ge.org Sobre Guinea Ecuatorial: Guinea Ecuatorial (GE) sufre actualmente una de las dictaduras más largas y brutales del mundo. El Presidente Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo arrebató el poder a su tío en 1979. Pero ahora que la salud del Presidente se deteriora, existe una oportunidad para la transición democrática. Informes basados en inteligencia estadounidense advierten de que China planea establecer en el país su primera presencia militar permanente en el océano Atlántico. GE es también uno de los países donde opera la organización paramilitar Wagner Group, vinculada al gobierno ruso. Según informes, cerca de 200 efectivos de Wagner se encuentran en GE. La dinastía Obiang ha presidido décadas de corrupción y abusos contra los derechos humanos. Su hijo y actual vicepresidente, Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue, será el probable sucesor de Obiang. En Francia, una larga investigación sobre "ganancias mal habidas" ha dominado la prensa. Las autoridades francesas se incautaron de más de 100 objetos preciados y varios bienes inmuebles en su investigación sobre corrupción y malversación de fondos del régimen. En España, se ha reportado que miembros de alto nivel del régimen de Obiang, entre ellos su hijo y vicepresidente, planeaban asesinar a varios líderes de la oposición radicados en Madrid. Inversionistas españoles también han perdido millones de euros tras ser presuntamente estafados y extorsionados por miembros de la familia Obiang. Juan Carlos Ondo Angue es ex Presidente del Tribunal Supremo de Justicia de GE. Abogado de formación, procuró mejorar el Estado de derecho y la gobernanza de GE y vive exiliado en Francia desde 2018. Contact Details Juan Carlos Ondo Angue info@nexos-ge.org

August 07, 2023 07:40 AM Eastern Daylight Time

News Release

Political Parties and Civil Society Unite Under “NEXOS” to Advocate for Change in Equatorial Guinea

Nexos GE

August 7, 2023, Madrid – Prominent opposition figures and civil society activists from Equatorial Guinea have today launched NEXOS, an organisation created to denounce the systematic violation of human rights in the country and to challenge the denial of these crimes by the regime of President Teodoro Obiang. NEXOS was formed following a seminar held in Rivas Vacia-Madrid on 3-4 August to assess the socio-political situation of the country on the 44 th anniversary of Obiang’s military dictatorship. The NEXOS platform will be spearheaded by prominent jurist Juan Carlos ONDO ANGUE, former President of the Supreme Court of Justice, and is composed of the Movement for the Self-Determination of the Island of Bioko (MAIB), the Movement for the Liberation of Equatorial Guinea Third Republic (MLGE 3R), the Democratic Republican Force (FDR) and the Union for Democracy and Social Development (UDDS) parties, as well as renowned public figures such as Jesus MITOGO OYONO, MP for the Citizens for Innovation (CI) party, writer Donato NDONGO-BIDYOGO, LGBT rights defender Trifonia Melibea OBONO and the director of Radio Macuto Jose Maria OYONO ESENG. On the founding of NEXOS, Juan Carlos ONDO ANGUE said: " In the current context of aggravated economic recession and the extreme degradation of political and social freedoms in Equatorial Guinea, progressive forces have united under NEXOS to denounce the regime's systematic violations of human rights perpetrated against dissidents. NEXOS will also fight the constant denial of these crimes against humanity by the ruling military dictatorship, which are part of a state policy conducted for the last 44 years under President Obiang and even during the previous dictatorship of Macias Nguema Biyogo." “With growing ties to China and Russia, Obiang’s regime poses a risk not just to the future of Equatorial Guinea, but to regional and global security. As Obiang aims to perpetuate his dictatorship through a dynastic succession, NEXOS, an unprecedented coalition, aims to make the international community aware of the urgency to bring about a democratic and peaceful transition to Equatorial Guinea.” In the coming weeks, NEXOS plans to unveil its next steps and key priorities in their campaign for human rights and a peaceful transition in Equatorial Guinea. For any enquiries, please contact: info@nexos-ge.org About Equatorial Guinea: Equatorial Guinea (EG) currently suffers under the longest and one of the most brutal dictatorships in the world. President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, first seized power from his uncle in 1979. But with the President’s health failing, there is a chance for a democratic transition. Reports based on US intelligence warn that China plans to establish its first permanent military presence in the Atlantic Ocean in the country. EG is also one of the countries where the Russian government-linked paramilitary organisation Wagner Group operates. Nearly 200 Wagner troops were reported to be in EG. The Obiang dynasty has presided over decades of corruption and human rights abuses. His son and current Vice-President, Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue will be Obiang’s likely successor. In France, a longstanding enquiry into ‘ill-gotten gains’ has been dominating the press. Over 100 prized objects and several real estate assets were seized by French authorities in their investigation of corruption and misappropriation of funds. In Spain, it has been reported that high-level members of Obiang’s regime, including his son and Vice-President, planned to kill various leaders of the opposition based in Madrid. Spanish investors have also lost millions of euros after being allegedly defrauded and extorted by members of Obiang’s family. Juan Carlos Ondo Angue is the former President of the Supreme Court of Justice of EG. A trained lawyer, he sought to improve the rule of law and governance of Equatorial Guinea and has lived in exile in France since 2018. Contact Details Nexos Juan Carlos Ondo Angue info@nexos-ge.org

August 07, 2023 07:38 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Part 8 of Legal & General’s U.S. Gig Economy Study offers guideposts for employer response

Legal & General

- As the gig economy keeps growing, employers have the opportunity to make use of this resilient, independent talent pool - 3 main concerns for gig workers: flexibility, pay equity, benefits such as health & retirement: o Hybrid work and flexible work conditions, including work from home, are here to stay o Companies can choose to offer more equitable pay to gig workers for contract services, regardless of gender, minority status, preferences, etc. o Employers may want to develop structures to support freelancers in getting access to benefits such as health insurance and retirement provisions - After mass layoffs of 2022-23, an expanding gig economy pool provides companies with access to thousands of tech workers The eighth and final segment of a broad new study on the U.S. Gig Economy sponsored by Legal & General Group ( LGEN, LGNNY ), Full Circle: What Employers Need to Know About Independent Workers in America was released today. The report wraps up a year-long, in-depth study of the fast-changing American workforce, with a growing number of independent workers projected to reach 50 percent of the U.S. labor force by 2027, in terms of how employers could better adjust to include them. This eighth part of the data-rich study yielded the insight that, given the preference of freelancers to stay in the gig economy, companies may need to look for new ways to engage with this valuable part of the workforce, including: better understanding of skills offered, skills gaps they can fill, and integrating into existing teams. Companies will also benefit by setting mutually acceptable terms with their independent contractors, offering ways to contribute to their health and retirement plans. Approaches to attract independent workers back to the workplace range from emphasizing the inclusive, social and supportive aspects of office culture, such as mentoring and teamwork, to understanding gig workers’ concerns and financial security needs and moving toward offering solutions. The study lays out three major areas of concern for U.S. gig workers, as well as a forecast for the IT sector: A need for flexibility in working hours and place of work—a continuation of hybrid work Addressing the gender pay gap—the study shows women earn 22 to 45 percent less than men A lack of financial security benefits, especially health insurance and retirement savings vehicles Harnessing the potential glut of IT gig workers in light of massive layoffs in the tech sector in 2022-23 “The steadily growing U.S. gig economy calls for real change in long-established work models. Understanding the aspirations and concerns of this contingent will help employers resolve to meet some of the needs that are now provided by traditional work. It’s likely that the initial impetus for change will come from the freelancers themselves, as they look to better fill gaps in their health insurance and retirement savings. At the same time, companies that are hiring will benefit from the resilience and agility of independent workers as they become a more integral part of the engine that drives their growth.” Sir Nigel Wilson, Chief Executive, Legal & General Group A grass-roots, not top-down approach to change Legal & General’s report looks at the independent attitudes and resilience of U.S. gig workers, while pointing to their very real needs and concerns. Despite inequities and long-term financial insecurity, their get-it-done attitude could be a huge asset to the many companies experiencing a dearth of talent. But rather than a systemic, top-down solution such as legally mandating insurances and retirement savings for gig workers, the study anticipates that a grass-roots movement coming from these independent workers and their advocates will gradually but meaningfully change how their earnings are structured. “While U.S. freelancers weighing the advantages of gig work have clearly come down on the side of independence, several conditions could be improved to level up their situation with that of the mainstream workforce. Independent workers shouldn’t have to find themselves short on health insurance or a secure retirement. Companies that hire gig economy workers can attract the best of this resilient, creative workforce by filling these needs, while helping bring about broader social gains in health, wealth and longevity.” John Godfrey, Director of Levelling-Up, Legal & General Group This report concludes Legal & General’s U.S. Gig Economy study. To receive a pdf of any of these reports, including two special reports on tech gig workers and female gig workers, please email Meir Kahtan/MKPR at mkahtan@rcn.com. Notes to Editors The information contained in this press release is intended solely for journalists and should not be relied upon by private investors or any other persons to make financial decisions. About the Study Legal & General undertook proprietary research into the attitudes and changes U.S. gig workers are experiencing in relation to their work situations and financial outlook. The U.S. Gig Economy research was compiled using original survey data from 1044 U.S.-based workers aged 18 to 60 who are neither students nor retired, and who earn at least 60% of their income from gig work. The data was collected via online survey fielded to individuals sample sourced from YouGov’s US panel. The Legal & General-designed survey was scripted and hosted on Gryphon, YouGov’s proprietary survey scripting platform, and the field work took place between August 19 and 31, 2022. Key demographics such as age, gender and region were allowed to fall out naturally. 20 questions were designed to understand facts about earnings, drivers of and barriers to gig working, financial product ownership & financial capacity when coming across adverse situations, and future expectations of being involved in the gig economy. Verbatim comments were captured by Legal & General in research carried out in June 2022. About Legal & General Group Established in 1836, Legal & General is one of the UK's leading financial services groups and a major global investor, with over £1.2 trillion ($1.4 trillion) in total assets under management* of which a third is international. We also provide powerful asset origination capabilities. Together, these underpin our leading retirement and protection solutions: we are a leading international player in pension risk transfer, in UK and US life insurance, and in UK workplace pensions and retirement income. Through inclusive capitalism, we aim to build a better society by investing in long-term assets that benefit everyone. *as of December 31, 2021 The information contained in this press release is intended solely for journalists and should not be relied upon by private investors or any other persons to make financial decisions. Contact Details Meir Kahtan +1 917-864-0800 mkahtan@rcn.com Company Website https://www.legalandgeneralgroup.com/

August 02, 2023 10:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Trust & Will Completes First eWill in Minnesota with State Senator Bonnie Westlin

Trust & Will

Trust & Will, the leading digital estate planning and settlement platform in the U.S., completed the first electronic will (eWill) in Minnesota in collaboration with State Senator Bonnie Westlin to kick off National Make-A-Will Month. Using the trustandwill.com platform and an electronic signing with a mobile notary and Minnesota resident Mark Fleming, Notary Public at Nationwide Apostille Services LLC (Veteran-Owned), Senator Westlin completed the first eWill on August 1, 2023, creating the state's first end-to-end-digital-estate plan. To make creating and executing a will more convenient and affordable for all Minnesotans, Senator Westlin ushered the Uniform Electronic Wills Act through the legislature. The bill passed both the House and Senate unanimously and was signed into law by Governor Tim Walz on March 30, 2023. "The Uniform Electronic Wills Act will streamline the estate planning process by leveraging technology to make it easier for people to prepare and execute their wills,” said Senator Westlin. “I’m proud to be chief author of this bill and to see it pass with full bipartisan support.” Minnesota is the 13th jurisdiction to pass eWill legislation, following Nevada, Indiana, Arizona, Florida, Utah, Colorado, Illinois, Maryland, North Dakota, Idaho, Washington, and the District of Columbia. Several other states are introducing eWill legislation in the coming months, as less than one-third of Americans have a will. Trust & Will has long been a committed advocate for making electronic wills legally valid nationwide as a part of their mission to make the generational transfer of wealth more accessible, cost-effective, and efficient to all. “Electronic wills remove several barriers inherent in traditional estate planning,” said Cody Barbo, Founder and CEO at Trust & Will. “Every family should have access to justice and legal technology to make their lives easier. Estate planning, a vital element of ensuring the next generation's well-being, should be accessible to everyone.” With the help of a variety of policymakers, Trust & Will has been working to promote the adoption of legislation governing electronic estate plans, including the Uniform Law Commission’s Uniform Electronic Estate Planning Documents Act, as well as educating the public about the benefits of electronic estate planning. To learn more about eWills and receive updates, visit: trustandwill.com/electronic-wills. ABOUT TRUST & WILL Trust & Will is simplifying estate planning and settlement with attorney-approved, legally valid documents and processes designed to adhere to individual state guidelines. Since 2017, we’ve helped hundreds of thousands of Trust & Will members leave their legacy with an affordable way to create an estate plan or settle the estate of a loved one. Our platform uses bank-level encryption that protects customer data and complies with the highest security standards, including SOC 2 and HIPAA. Trust & Will is the official estate planning benefit provider for AARP members, along with several leading financial institutions, who all believe in our mission of helping every family leave their legacy. Contact Details Danielle Nuzzo +1 631-807-7772 danielle@trustandwill.com Company Website https://trustandwill.com

August 02, 2023 07:05 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Stanton Chase completes Executive Search for Pacific Service Credit Union - Chief Risk Officer and Chief Technology Officer

digifora

Stanton Chase Los Angeles is pleased to announce the placement of Marian Wall as Chief Risk Officer (CRO) and Kevin Alsup as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) for Pacific Service Credit Union. Bill Brewer and Peter Deragon led the two executive search engagements. Both are managing Directors of the Stanton Chase office in Los Angeles and members of the firm’s Financial Services Practice Group. Marian Wall Marian Wall is an accomplished and results-driven leader. She has extensive expertise in various areas related to risk management, strategic partnerships, negotiation, and legal and compliance risk. Marian has a background as Executive Vice President, Chief Technology Officer, and General Counsel at American Business Bank. She also operated as the Head of Global Technology Vendor Management at Bank of the West. Marian has repeatedly demonstrated her ability to excel in complex and high-stakes environments. She has a proven track record of successfully managing enterprise-level programs, overseeing vendor relationships, and mitigating risks effectively. Marian's strengths lie in her visionary and action-oriented approach, combined with a dedication to accountability and transparency. Additionally, she takes pride in mentoring and empowering her teams, as evidenced by her remarkable ability to retain and develop team members. Bill Brewer commented, "Marian Wall's appointment as Chief Risk Officer will significantly contribute to Pacific Service Credit Union's strategic objectives. She will lead the development of a robust risk and cybersecurity architecture, ensuring the credit union's readiness to navigate growth opportunities and complex threats." Peter Deragon added, "Marian possesses extensive expertise in enterprise risk management (ERM). She will play a key role in reviewing and assessing the credit union's current ERM maturity. She will also be essential for implementing a comprehensive governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) program that fosters efficiency and security across all aspects of the organization." Wall’s educational achievements are as impressive as her professional ones. They include a Doctor of Law (J.D.) degree from Loyola Law School, Los Angeles, and a summa cum laude Bachelor's degree in Philosophy/Religion from California Lutheran University. Moreover, Marian holds licenses as a California Bar Member and is a Certified Regulatory Vendor Program Manager (Level II) from Compliance Education Institute, LLC. Her skill set comprises leadership, contract negotiation, vendor management, project management, risk assessment, contract management, and auditing, with experience primarily within the banking sector. As an ambitious and driven individual, Wall brings a wealth of knowledge and a commitment to excellence in her new role as Chief Risk Officer for her new employer. Jenna Lampson, President and CEO of Pacific Service Credit Union, enthusiastically remarked, "Marian will undoubtedly serve the credit union well as we continue to grow in size and confidently tackle new challenges. Her depth and breadth of experience, coupled with her unique combination of information security, technology, and risk management background, will be invaluable." Kevin Alsup Kevin Alsup will also bring a remarkable degree of expertise to his role as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) for Pacific Service Credit Union. He possesses over 20 years of experience in the financial and technology sectors and is well-versed in information technology and strategic planning, with a focus on project management and execution. Kevin’s impressive background includes leadership roles in high-tech, manufacturing, and the financial services and banking industries. His extensive career includes serving as the Senior Vice President of Technology Solutions at Excite Credit Union and various leadership roles at Technology Credit Union. Throughout his career, Kevin has demonstrated proficiency in mentoring, change management, and strategy development. As CTO, Kevin will be responsible for overseeing the credit union's technology initiatives and driving innovation to enhance member experiences. Kevin has a demonstrated background in driving operational excellence, innovation, and cost sustainability while ensuring compliance and security. Deragon stated, "With his proven track record of successful technology implementations, Kevin is well-positioned to lead the credit union's strategic initiatives. This includes the critical online banking conversion and data governance review, which ensures an engaging experience for employees and members alike." Brewer also remarked, "As CTO, Kevin's expertise in developing and communicating technology strategies will be instrumental in optimizing resources and maintaining a competitive advantage in the ever-changing world of finance." Kevin’s education consists of a Master of Business Administration with concentrations in Finance and Accounting from Santa Clara University. It also includes Bachelor's degrees in Economics and Political Science from the University of California, Riverside. Additionally, Kevin is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP®) from the Project Management Institute (PMI®). Pacific Service Credit Union looks forward to leveraging Kevin's expertise to enhance technological initiatives, strengthen partnerships, and elevate member experiences in the ever-evolving financial landscape. "We are thrilled to welcome Kevin Alsup as our Chief Technology Officer,” Lampson declared, “He is a veteran credit union IT professional whose laser focus on efficiency, innovation, and member experience aligns perfectly with Pacific Service Credit Union's values. Kevin's energetic, solutions-oriented, and collaborative leadership will drive our strategy execution to new heights." About Stanton Chase (Los Angeles) Established in 1990, Stanton Chase is a leading global executive search firm with over 70 offices in 45 countries. Stanton Chase consultants offer unparalleled expertise via three core services: executive search, executive assessment, and board services. The company's Los Angeles office has an established track record of delivering executive search excellence to its clients in the financial services, consumer products and services, industrial, aerospace, media/entertainment, private equity, education, nonprofit, and government contracting sectors. The Los Angeles office services clients throughout the Pacific states. Learn more at stantonchase.com. About Pacific Service Credit Union Pacific Service Credit Union is a not-for-profit credit union committed to strengthening the financial lives of its more than 65,000 members through trustworthy practices, superior products and exceptional service. Founded in 1936 by employees of Pacific Gas & Electric Company, it is a full-service credit union with assets over $1.4 billion and a field of membership that incorporates 12 Northern California counties. Bauer Financial, a third-party firm that analyzes the financial health of banks and credit unions, consistently awards Pacific Service Credit Union its highest 5-Star rating. The credit union boasts a talented, cohesive leadership team with an average of more than 17 years of service; and in 2023, was named as a Top Workplace in the Bay Area for the fifth consecutive year. Learn more at pacificservice.org. Contact Details digifora Justin Brackett +1 843-284-6594 justin@digifora.com Company Website https://digifora.com

July 31, 2023 11:47 AM Eastern Daylight Time

News Release

Media Veterans Ervin Duggan and William Kristol Join Forces, Urging FCC Hearing into Character Fitness of FOX and Murdochs to Remain Public Interest Broadcast Licensees

Raynor Ave.

Today, former PBS President Ervin S. Duggan and former Weekly Standard Editor William Kristol filed a joint informal objection to the broadcast license renewal application for Fox Corp-owned television station FOX 29 Philadelphia (WTXF-TV). The pair's informal objection urges the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to hold a hearing that examines whether Fox Corporation (FOX) and its leadership have violated the character requirements expected from public trustees granted a broadcast license. The Duggan-Kristol objection follows a formal Petition to Deny filed by the Media and Democracy Project (MAD) earlier this month. It brings high-profile bipartisan backing to the group's efforts. "As media veterans, we are acutely aware of the power afforded to those who control the information broadcast on our nation's airwaves," said Ervin S. Duggan. "Rupert and Lachlan Murdoch's role in perpetuating election falsehoods stands as a blatant violation of the character requirements expected of those the FCC entrusts to hold a broadcast license." In the pair's objection, Duggan and Kristol say that although they were members of different parties when they served in government—and had different perspectives on many issues throughout their respective careers in public service and journalism—they strongly believe that American democracy must be grounded in open, respectful, and factual debate. The objection goes on to say, "[w]e believe that media companies who are directly or indirectly granted the privilege to serve the public through the operation of FCC-licensed television stations have a corollary duty to facilitate and strengthen democracy by participating in that debate—not by hiding their opinions, nor by providing 'equal time' on all issues to outside parties, nor by merely chasing ratings or corporate stock price, but by adhering to the highest journalistic standards in reporting and distributing news to ensure that the public has solid facts upon which to make the decisions that are essential to our society's future as a democracy." "The adjudication of the Dominion case unequivocally established that Fox News Channel repeatedly disseminated false news, and the Fox cable channels and its broadcast ones are clearly intimately linked, as Rupert and Lachlan Murdoch hold the authority for decision-making over both," said William Kristol. "The Commission should follow the well-established legal framework and conduct a hearing to fully consider the fitness of FOX and the Murdochs to continue as licensees of the public airwaves." WTXF is one of 29 broadcast television stations owned and operated by FOX through its 100 percent ownership of Fox Television Stations, and the ultimate control over these enterprises rests with Rupert and Lachlan Murdoch. Their controlling interest in FOX and all its various broadcast subsidiaries means they are the de facto party seeking renewal of the WTXF license. The judge overseeing the Dominion litigation refused to excuse Rupert from the case that found both Murdochs had presided over the presentation of false news. Similarly, the FCC must refuse calls to excuse the Murdochs from accountability and at a minimum initiate a hearing, if not outright deny their license renewal application. A copy of the full Duggan-Kristol informal objection is available here. A link to MAD’s initial Petition to Deny is available here. Ervin S. Duggan is a veteran of the Lyndon Johnson White House, a former Commissioner of the Federal Communications Commission, and former President of PBS. William Kristol is a veteran political analyst and commentator. He served in senior positions in the Ronald Reagan administration and the George H. W. Bush White House. For two decades, he edited The Weekly Standard magazine, and is now editor at large of The Bulwark and a director of the educational and advocacy group, Defending Democracy Together. For media inquiries, please contact Aaron Alberico at aalberico@raynoravenue.com. Contact Details Raynor Ave. Aaron Alberico aalberico@raynoravenue.com Company Website https://www.raynoravenue.com/

July 31, 2023 09:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Hunter Biden Plea Deal Rejected by Federal Judge

National Legal & Policy Center

Federal Judge Maryellen Noreika in Delaware rejected a sweetheart plea deal whereby Hunter Biden agreed to plead guilty to two misdemeanor tax violations and enter a pretrial diversion program for a felony gun charge. The gun charge would be dropped if he stayed off drugs and alcohol and complied with other conditions for two years. The prosecutors also recommended that there would be no jail time for the two tax charges. The National Legal and Policy Center (NLPC), an ethics watchdog group, had previously blasted the lenient plea agreement between the U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, David Weiss, and Hunter Biden. NLPC called upon Judge Noreika to reject the deal. The plea deal fell apart when the prosecutor told the court that the investigation is still ongoing, but Hunter and his attorneys thought the plea deal would give him immunity for any other crimes he may have committed. The frustrated judge gave the two sides some time to settle their differences during a break in the hearing but further problems arose regarding the gun charge. If Hunter did not abide by the terms of his pretrial diversion program, the judge was concerned that she would be the one to decide that the prosecution of the gun charge should proceed. She made it clear that the judiciary does not have that prosecutorial power under our Constitution’s separation of powers. She gave the parties thirty days to file additional briefs on a revised plea deal. Notably, Judge Noreika grilled Hunter during the hearing on the source of his foreign income. Hunter admitted receiving taxable income from Burisma oil company in Ukraine, where he was on the Board, and from a Chinese energy company. Yet despite the five-year investigation, no charges were brought against Hunter under the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) for engaging in political activities on behalf of Burisma and Chinese interests, despite overwhelming evidence that NLPC had presented to the Justice Department in 2020. “It’s outrageous that after a five-year investigation of Hunter Biden, and the recent IRS whistleblowers’ sworn testimony of a Justice Department coverup and obstruction, the best that the prosecutor can come up with is a couple of misdemeanor charges and recommend probation as a slap on the wrist,” said Paul Kamenar, counsel for NLPC. “Thankfully, Judge Noreika rejected the plea deal as we urged, but it remains to be seen if a new deal is agreed to,” Kamenar added. "The two-level system of justice whereby the Biden family gets a pass is rightfully perceived by the public as the politicization of the justice system,” said Peter Flaherty, Chairman of NLPC. “If the Justice Department continues to cover up for the Biden family, Congress must vigorously pursue its investigation, which appears to be leading to impeachment proceedings.” ### Founded in 1991, NLPC promotes ethics in public life and government accountability through research, investigation, education, and legal action. Contact Details National Legal and Policy Center Dan Rene +1 202-329-8357 drene@nlpc.org Company Website http://www.nlpc.org

July 27, 2023 11:59 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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