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Hart + Harvest Press Announces New Edition of James F. Haggerty’s Chief Crisis Officer, featuring an Insightful New Preface on the COVID and Ukraine Crises

PRCG | Haggerty LLC

“Not having a crisis plan is like sending your team onto the field, and only then making up the plays. You may win the game… but I wouldn’t bet on it.” Hart + Harvest Press is thrilled to release the latest edition of Chief Crisis Officer: Structure and Leadership for Effective Communications Response, by noted attorney, author and communications consultant James F. Haggerty. The new edition is now available for purchase on platforms such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, independent booksellers, and at hartandharvest.com. The Hart + Harvest edition of Chief Crisis Officer features a new preface that provocatively looks at the communication impacts of two of the most dominant crisis events of the past several years: the COVID-19 pandemic, and Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. On the COVID crisis, Haggerty writes that the government’s disastrous public response “serves as a prime example of why basic principles of crisis communications are so critical, including: having structure and leadership in place for response before a crisis occurs; ensuring an actionable plan that everyone understands and buys into; understanding the importance of rapid response protocols in an age of social media and other instant communications; and creating messages that are compelling and clear… messages that resonate with your audience.” On the subject of messaging, Haggerty contrasts the COVID failures with the success of President Volodymyr Zelensky in the wake of Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. “As in the public speeches of Churchill, Roosevelt and Ronald Reagan,” Haggerty writes, “Zelensky chose his words and images incredibly carefully, rallying the Western world to a cause thought hopeless in the early days of the conflict.” Haggerty adds: “There was no committee noodling his words on Google Docs, adding various equivocations and lawyerly qualifications. No banal clichés. None of the muddied verbiage of the type that ensures that the bulk of your audience doesn't hear your message at all.” Structure and Leadership In Chief Crisis Officer, Haggerty emphasizes the necessity for all organizations, regardless of size, to (1) have the structure in place for effective communications response, and (2) appoint a leader who can execute in the heat of the modern crisis—the “Chief Crisis Officer.” “Crisis communications planning is not merely for the largest of companies facing the biggest of issues in the most major of media outlets,” Haggerty writes. “Effective crisis communications is for everyone involved with issues or events that could negatively impact their organization.” Throughout the book, readers will gain insights into crisis management, including the anatomy of a crisis, the selection of a Chief Crisis Officer, the creation of a crisis communications plan, rapid response strategies, crafting the right messages, and more. Since its original release, Chief Crisis Officer has become mandatory reading for CEOs, business executives, lawyers, public affairs and public relations executives, and high-profile individuals who seek guidance in crisis management. Prior editions of Chief Crisis Officer have been positively featured in publications that include the Harvard Business Review, Fortune and Entrepreneur magazines. About James F. Haggerty Called a “powerhouse of PR and communications” by Chambers & Partners’ international directory, James F. Haggerty is a well-known author, attorney and communications consultant. Haggerty is CEO of PRCG | Haggerty LLC, an internationally renowned public relations firm based in New York City, and its sports brand, PRCG | Sports. He is also president of the Crisis Protection Network (CPN), an association of senior communications executives in 16 cities worldwide. Haggerty is also the author of In the Court of Public Opinion: Winning Strategies for Litigation Communications, Third Edition (Hart + Harvest Press, 2022), which has been called “the perfect handbook for this age of show trials…” by Financial Times. The first business book to examine the interplay of media, public relations, and public perception during litigation, In the Court of Public Opinion was named one of the Top 10 PR Books of the Year by The Holmes Report. A 20 th anniversary edition will be published in 2023. About Hart + Harvest Press Hart + Harvest Press is an independent publishing company specializing in compelling nonfiction written by experts in business, communications, public policy, and related fields. Established and backed by PRCG, Hart + Harvest is driven by a genuine passion for storytelling—narratives that inspire, thoughts that provoke, and critical thinking that test conventional wisdom. Above all, Hart + Harvest firmly believes in the power of language to entertain, enlighten, and persuade. Contact Details Hart + Harvest Press Sandra Prendergast +1 212-683-8100 sprendergast@hartandharvest.com Company Website https://hartandharvest.com/

August 18, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Announcing NowSecure Platform 5 — the Industry’s First All-in-One Mobile App Security & Privacy Testing Solution

NowSecure

NowSecure, the recognized experts in mobile security and privacy, announced it has unified its portfolio of mobile app security products and services into the award-winning flagship NowSecure Platform 5. Now mobile development and security teams can optimize their mobile appdev lifecycle and mobile AppSec program performance, fine tune testing frequency, depth and coverage across their mobile app portfolios and drive efficiencies while consolidating investments. The “IDC DevSecOps Adoption, Techniques and Tools Survey, 2023” identifies the top drivers for DevSecOps as catching security vulnerabilities earlier in the software lifecycle, improving security posture of apps and minimizing human error via security automation. However, IDC found the top three organizational challenges associated with DevSecOps adoption are lack of developer security knowledge, lack of collaboration across security and development teams, and budget constraints. In addition, the IDC survey reported that significantly more organizations experienced a security breach in 2022. Recent notable breaches listed in the NowSecure Mobile Breach Tracker include Chick-fil-A, Hyundai, Kurbo, TikTok and Twitter (X). To help developers, security and privacy teams address these challenges and improve performance, NowSecure Platform 5 provides a consolidated, collaborative, all-in-one platform for mobile app security and privacy. “For most organizations, secure app development, security training, app security testing and pen testing have long been fragmented, frustrating and expensive,” said NowSecure CEO Alan Snyder. “Working with our customers and mobile community, we have joined together all the critical components of a successful mobile app security and privacy program into a single all-in-one solution. Now all organizations can get the unified visibility and efficiencies they need at scale.” NowSecure Platform provides continuous and on-demand automated mobile app security and privacy testing for iOS and Android mobile applications for mobile DevSecOps and Agile teams. Purpose built for mobile teams, NowSecure runs a battery of 600 tests using static, dynamic, interactive and API Security testing for the deepest and broadest risk coverage in the industry, identifying security, privacy, supply chain and app store blocker issues with high accuracy. NowSecure Platform integrates with all major software development tools including CI/CD, ticketing and vulnerability management systems. To speed issue resolution, NowSecure includes developer-friendly issue details, business impact, evidence, embedded remediation instructions, code samples, links to Apple and Android developer documentation and more. NowSecure Platform 5 delivers critical capabilities to drive performance and efficiency: Unifies and consolidates NowSecure Platform automated testing, NowSecure Workstation manual testing, NowSecure Services expert manual pen testing and NowSecure Services compliance validation services to enable all activities and results in one place Delivers actionable analytics through new mobile app Portfolio Health Dashboard with trending, drill-downs and recommendations Supercharges remediation by expanding findings and remediation content while embedding just-in-time training from NowSecure Academy Adds a new “Secure Mobile Development Foundations” course in NowSecure Academy for developers to learn secure coding basics Enables seamless collaboration across dev, security and NowSecure experts through policy-driven workflow integrations Adds an optimized Command Line Interface (CLI) to enable custom interactions and integrations into development workflows Today more than 80% of all digital time online is spent in mobile apps vs web, generating over $260bn in mobile revenue in 2022. As the Mobile App Security Testing [MAST] marketplace grows, “Gartner Hype Cycle for Application Security, 2023” (24 July 2023 • ID G00791986) notes that Mobile App Security Testing has moved into the Slope of Enlightenment where “commercial off-the-shelf methodologies and tools ease the development process” and is approaching the Plateau of Productivity where “real-world benefits of an innovation are demonstrated and accepted and tools and methodologies are increasingly stable.” With years of delivering high-value customer results through millions of mobile app assessments, the latest NowSecure Platform 5 innovations ensure that it is well positioned to help the mobile app community mature efficiently and effectively. NowSecure Platform 5 is the cornerstone of the industry’s only full suite of mobile app security and privacy solutions from NowSecure. In addition to NowSecure Platform for automated security and privacy testing, offerings include NowSecure Workstation kit for pen tester productivity, NowSecure Supply Chain Risk Management, NowSecure expert Mobile Pen Testing as a Service (PTaaS), and NowSecure Academy training courseware for dev and security teams. NowSecure customers report high value returns of releasing safe mobile software 30% faster, reducing testing and delivery costs by 30% and reducing risk by 40%. NowSecure Platform 5 is available directly from NowSecure and via Synopsys SIG, Microsoft Azure Marketplace and AWS Marketplace. Request a demo of NowSecure Platform 5 to learn more and see it in action. As the recognized experts in mobile security and privacy, NowSecure protects the global mobile app economy and safeguards the data of millions of mobile app users. Built on a foundation of standards, NowSecure empowers the world's most demanding organizations with security automation to release and monetize 30% faster, reduce testing and delivery costs by 30% and reduce risk by 40%. Only NowSecure offers an award winning full solution suite of continuous security testing for DevSecOps, mobile app supply chain monitoring, expert mobile pen testing as a service (PTaaS) and training courseware. NowSecure actively contributes and supports the mobile security open-source community, standards and certification including OWASP MASVS, ADA MASA, NIAP and is recognized by IDC, Gartner, Deloitte Fast 500, Cyber Defense Magazine and TAG Cyber. Contact Details NowSecure Brian Reed +1 202-240-7611 press@nowsecure.com Company Website https://www.nowsecure.com/

August 15, 2023 11:01 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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CLEAN BEAUTY DEVELOPMENT LAB KKT CONSULTANTS APPOINTS KATIE HARRIS AS THE NEW CHIEF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT OFFICER

KKT Consultants

KKT Consultants, a leading sustainable beauty product development and cosmetic formulation company, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Katie Harris as its new Chief Business Development Officer (CBDO) this August 2023. Harris, recognized by her peers for her commitment to client services, brings over a decade of experience and a proven record of success in B2B sales and relationship management as KKT Consultants continue to expand beyond skin care. Since its launch in March 2020, KKT Consultants has become the go-to resource for top brands like Kopari, Bloomi, May Lindstrom Skin, One Love Organics, Peach and Lily, Wildling, and Goop to develop efficacious, clean, and sustainable products coveted by consumers. To date, it has developed over 500 formulas in skin care, hair care, body care, sexual wellness, baby care, sun care, oral care, and even pet care categories, all with an emphasis on thoughtful innovations, safer formulations, and science-forward products. From product conception to its last drop, the chemists led by Koestline consult brands on every aspect of ways to reduce their carbon footprint and environmental impact without compromising efficacy or cosmetic elegance. This includes sustainable ingredient discovery and development, supporting greener manufacturing practices, and championing more transparency. “We are thrilled to bring Katie on the KKT Consultants team in order to better serve our growing clientele,” said Krupa Koestline, founder and CEO of KKT Consultants. “Combining her extensive relationships and industry insights, we can serve even more brands looking for fact-based solutions regarding clean and sustainable product development. Harris is actively involved in the Society of Cosmetic Chemists. Prior to joining KKT Consultants, Harris focused on the sales of raw materials and ingredients at Glenn Corporation, a sustainability-forward personal care supplier company, where she was awarded the Scott Trippel Award in 2020 and the 2022 Above and Beyond Account Manager award as voted by her peers. “Having worked with Krupa since before she launched KKT Consultants, I’ve been motivated and inspired by her vision and creativity in clean and sustainable product development,” said Harris. “I look forward to expanding the company alongside Krupa by bringing in new opportunities and brand partners.” While known for their award-winning formulations in skincare, KKT Consultants is expecting an increase in body care, global hair care, and sexual wellness products. The company is expected to grow by at least 40% year over year into 2024. About KKT Consultants: Focusing on clean and sustainable beauty, the cosmetic chemists at KKT Consultants, led by Krupa Koestline, understand the importance of innovation in today’s competitive and saturated beauty market. Savvy modern consumers demand effective products created with thoughtful innovations and safer formulations that are free of green-, clean-, and science-washing. It’s no longer about formulating products only with simple chemistry in mind. Rather, the effects active ingredients have on the entire body’s biology and health must be considered to be truly holistic. As such, KKT Consultants’ chemists formulate clean beauty products rooted in science, free of ingredients and processes with questionable safety. Based on the latest research in cosmetic chemistry, environmental science, and skin and body biology, we refuse to take shortcuts in developing products. As a result, our products are designed to be safe for consumers and the planet. For more, visit kktconsultants.com and @kktconsultants on Instagram. About Krupa Koestline, Founder and CEO OF KKT Consultants Cosmetic Chemist Krupa Koestline is a thought leader, trend forecaster, and industry pioneer in sustainable and clean beauty. With over a decade of experience, Koestline has created award-winning formulations with an emphasis on sustainability utilizing the latest innovations for brands like Kopari, Peach & Lily, and Tower 28. Journalists, brands, and retailers tap Krupa as their go-to expert to gain more insight into clean and sustainable beauty. In addition to features in top outlets like Allure, ELLE, and Fat Mascara, Krupa has also served as a clean-beauty guest expert for Cosmopolitan’s Clean Beauty Awards and Byrdie’s Eco Beauty Awards. She has also helped outlets like The Zoe Report and retailers like Credo update their definition of “clean beauty” to emphasize sustainability. Prior to KKT Consultants, Krupa’s corporate roles include VP of Product Development at a leading US manufacturing company and Chief Product Officer at Pure Haven. Krupa holds a Master of Science degree in Biology, a Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology, as well as a Business Certificate in Marketing from Cornell University. She is active in organizations such as the GRMA, Green Chemistry Council, and the Society of Cosmetic Chemists. Contact Details Glow Yang PR Gloria Yang +1 310-381-9964 gloria@glowyangpr.com Company Website https://www.kktconsultants.com

August 15, 2023 08:07 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Comcast, Hillsdale in Miami County and the City of Paola Announce Multi-Million Dollar Project to Deliver High-Speed Internet to Homes and Businesses Across the Area

Comcast Greater Kansas City

Comcast announced it is expanding its smart, fast, reliable fiber-rich network – the Xfinity 10G Network – to homes and businesses in the city of Paola and the area of Hillsdale in Miami County to further enhance broadband connectivity and better serve its citizens with fast, reliable internet service. Working with the City of Paola and Miami County, Comcast will bring secure gigabit broadband service to more than 4,000 homes and businesses and will invest millions in a two-year project to expand its fiber-rich Xfinity 10G Network infrastructure over 107 miles in the area. As part of its commitment to bring connectivity to more homes in Kansas, Comcast worked closely with the City of Paola and Hillsdale in Miami County to make fast internet a reality for over 4,000 homes and businesses. The expansion will bring residential broadband speeds faster than 1 gigabit per second (Gbps) and business speeds up to 100 Gbps. In the last three years, Comcast has invested nearly $40.3 million in the State of Kansas including more than $11.4 million in technology and infrastructure, such as network upgrades to deliver innovative, reliable and affordable broadband service to everyone in the Comcast service area in Kansas. “Comcast’s announcement to expand further south into Miami County provides additional service options to some customers but also brings service to some areas currently without any high-speed provider,” said Janet McRae, Economic Development Director for Miami County. “The need for our residents and businesses to have high speed internet options is only going to continue to increase in the future. We look forward to the opportunities this investment in our county will bring.” "We are excited for Comcast's commitment to bring high-speed internet to our residents and businesses. Members of our staff have already begun meeting with Comcast to help streamline their construction needs and hopefully minimize any disruptions that may occur,” said Randi Shannon, City Manager, City of Paola. “High-speed internet supports so many parts of our daily lives. Increased access benefits not just those who work from home or enjoy digital entertainment, but it also brings vital healthcare and similar services into the homes of our most vulnerable residents. We are grateful for Comcast's investment and are excited to see the opportunities it brings." “Comcast is proud to partner with Paola and Hillsdale to connect businesses and residents to our reliable, high-speed Xfinity 10G Network,” said Kalyn Hove, Regional Senior Vice President for Comcast. “As the world we live in becomes increasingly digital, we remain focused on not only bringing our broadband network to more homes and businesses in Kansas, but also on future-proofing our network to meet the ever-increasing appetite for education, business and entertainment.” Residential customers will be able to take advantage of Xfinity’s full suite of internet products, including the company’s Internet Essentials program that provides low-cost, high-speed broadband for income-constrained households. Since its inception in 2011, the program has connected more than 6,400 Kansas residents. Comcast also participates in the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which provides qualifying households with a $30 monthly credit toward internet and mobile services. Powered by the Xfinity 10G Network Comcast’s network and Internet experience are powering homes and businesses today and into the future: Ultimate Capacity: Xfinity customers connect nearly 1 billion devices across the company’s network annually. The Xfinity 10G Network with the next-generation Xfinity gateways deliver the most advanced WiFi technology carrying three times more bandwidth to power streaming, gaming, videoconferencing, and more, simultaneously. Fastest Internet: More than a third of Xfinity Internet customers subscribe to gigabit speed products, and symmetrical gig speeds are planned to come to the first homes later this year. Unprecedented Coverage: The latest Xfinity Gateway provides a more reliable connection throughout the home. Customers can get wall-to-wall WiFi coverage with a powerful Xfinity WiFi Boost Pod that extends coverage to hard-to-reach areas, with plans for an offering of increased support for in-home WiFi through a “boost guarantee” later this year. Most Reliable Connection: Comcast is scaling the nation’s largest and most reliable network – the Xfinity 10G Network – that passes 60 million homes and businesses and counting. The company plans to launch a new device that is “storm ready” with cellular and battery backup to help keep customers connected even when the power goes out. Ultra-Low Latency: The Xfinity 10G Network and the latest Xfinity Gateway are a powerful combination that deliver ultra-low latency for those moments when response times matter most like video games, a fast-growing category with Xfinity households averaging more than one gaming console per home. For local businesses, Comcast Business offers a suite of connectivity, cybersecurity, managed solutions and Comcast Business Mobile products designed specifically for their employee’s needs. Powered by the nation’s largest Gig-speed broadband network, and backed by 24/7 customer support, Comcast Business is the nation’s largest cable and Internet provider to small and mid-size businesses and one of the leading providers to larger organizations in the Enterprise market. Comcast Business has been consistently recognized by industry analysts and associations as a leader and innovator, and one of the fastest growing providers of Ethernet services. About Comcast Corporation Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. Contact Details Comcast Corporation Jill Hornbacher jill_hornbacher@comcast.com Venice Communications Jayne Siemens jsiemens@vencomm.com Company Website https://corporate.comcast.com/

August 15, 2023 07:00 AM Central Daylight Time

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IAPC Decries Assassination of Ecuadorian Presidential Candidate

International Association of Political Consultants

The International Association of Political Consultants (IAPC) released the following statement regarding the murder of Build Ecuador Movement Presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio: “The assassination or even harassment of a political candidate is an affront to the democratic process,” said Matt Klink, President of the IAPC. “Violence has no place in a democracy. You can disagree with a politician’s point of view, you can demonstrate, but the place to exercise your voice is at the ballot box.” “Democracy is fragile, and when violence is used to silence voices, everyone suffers.” “We must focus our democratic energy on ensuring fair, open elections that allows for the fullest participation of all points of view. As political consultants we encourage our candidates and clients to be tolerant, respectful, and civil to voters and the opposition.” “The IAPC’s mission is to support democracy around the world. We must continue to be vigilant in protecting democratic values against threats from those that try and thwart and subvert the will of the people.” Established in 1968, The International Association of Political Consultants is committed to fostering democracy and the democratic process throughout the world. Members span a variety of political backgrounds and activities fostering the growing and diverse profession of political consulting as well as the practical aspects of democratic elections. Contact Details President, International Association of Political Consultants Matt Klink +1 310-283-6267 matt@klinkcampaigns.com Vice-President Communications, International Association of Political Consultants Marcel wieder +1 416-907-2126 Company Website https://www.iapc.org

August 10, 2023 03:58 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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CardSnacks Launches Group Greeting Cards to Enhance its E-Card Offerings

CardSnacks

Miss passing cards around the office to recognize a colleague’s birthday, celebrate the birth of a child, or show sympathy for a loss? CardSnacks, the leading platform for individuals and businesses to send personalized e-greetings and gift cards, has introduced a group greeting card feature that lets colleagues send a single e-greeting with personalized messages from multiple users. The feature, which is available on iOS and Android devices, fills one of the biggest cultural holes in workplace environments since more companies have gone to hybrid or work-from-home models. “Anyone who has ever worked in the office has signed a group card to show love and appreciation for a colleague, but that is hard to do in the current workplace,” said Mark Wachen, founder and CEO of CardSnacks. “For the first time, our e-greetings allow for collaboration, whether you are near or far from your colleagues, this latest feature brings coworkers together to offer collective support and celebration.” The feature is available now for CardSnacks for Business, which is geared toward employee and client recognition and connection. Additionally, it is also available for CardSnacks’ personal offerings, meaning family members or neighbors can also share a single card, as long as they are a registered user of CardSnacks. Like all CardSnacks e-cards, the greetings are customizable, with the ability to add photos, videos, music, stickers, and more. Customers can also attach one of the 400 gift cards from top retailers and restaurants. More than 5,000 different card covers are available so customers can send group birthday cards, group anniversary cards, group thank you cards, and much more. “Creating shared, collaborative cards has always been a wonderful way to show recognition, support, and love to others,” Wachen said. “This new group greeting card feature is a step forward in allowing people who may be physically far away from one another to show deep connection and support, build culture, and solidify a sense of community.” For step-by-step instructions on how to set up a group greeting card on CardSnacks, visit https://www.cardsnacks.com/business/resources. About CardSnacks CardSnacks is the leading platform for individuals and businesses to send personalized e-greetings, invitations, and gift cards. It is based in New York, with employees in California, London, and Israel. CardSnacks is available in the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, and on the web. For more information, please visit us at https://www.cardsnacks.com. Contact Details CardSnacks Media press@cardsnacks.com Company Website https://www.cardsnacks.com/

August 08, 2023 10:15 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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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

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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

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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

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