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News Direct Commemorates International Podcast Day ™

News Direct

Today, September 30 th, is International Podcast Day ™, which News Direct is excited to celebrate, as it has recently entered into the exploding podcast space. The company views podcasting as integral to its continuing evolution as a multi-tiered, diversified content distribution and amplification platform. It was only 12 days ago, on September 18 th, that the firm announced the News Direct Podcast Channel, an innovative new product that harnesses the growing popularity and messaging impact of podcasts while leveraging the substantial SEO power of the newsdirect.com site. International Podcast Day™ represents a celebration of the power of podcasting, and News Direct is marking the day with a blog about this not-so-new (the first podcast was in 2004), but suddenly hot communications format, titled The PR Podcast Comes of Age. Gregg Castano, News Direct CEO and Founder, noted, “Podcasting has been around for 19 years, so its recent surge in popularity has been a surprising, but welcome, development as it relates to the Public Relations industry. This makes podcasting a natural next step in the evolution of our business model from an ultramodern newswire into a multichannel communications platform. International Podcast Day™ provides us with an ideal opportunity to highlight this newest addition to our product suite.” News Direct is a technology-driven content distribution and amplification platform for PR, IR, corporate communications and marketing professionals. Our automated platform delivers a completely reimagined, modernized user experience for newswire users that has reshaped the industry landscape. Additionally, the company has expanded its offerings to include an array of technology-enhanced message amplification tools ranging from sponsored content to podcasting products, all from one online destination. Contact Details News Direct Gregg Castano gregg.castano@newsdirect.com Company Website http://www.newsdirect.com

September 30, 2023 01:29 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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News Direct Hires Respected Industry Veteran Kim Deonanan to Lead Its UK and European Sales Efforts

News Direct

News Direct today announced the addition of newswire industry veteran Kim Deonanan to its sales team as European Regional Sales Manager. Kim previously spent more than 18 years with Business Wire, where she served successfully in roles ranging from UK Sales Manager to Group Vice President, Europe. She will be responsible for business development in the United Kingdom and throughout Western Europe. Kim brings a wealth of industry experience and significant professional relationships to News Direct and has earned a deep level of respect within the newswire space with colleagues, clients and competitors alike. “I was partly responsible for bringing Kim on board at Business Wire and I came to trust her immensely and admire her greatly for her dedication, professionalism and talent”, stated Gregg Castano, Founder and CEO of News Direct and former Business Wire president. “She is one of the most knowledgeable people I can think of when it comes to the newswire industry. We are extremely pleased and fortunate to be able to bring someone of her caliber to our team and we're very excited to have her spread the News Direct gospel throughout the UK and Europe.” News Direct is a technology-driven content distribution and amplification platform for PR, IR, corporate communications and marketing professionals. Our automated platform delivers a completely reimagined, modernized user experience for newswire users that has reshaped the industry landscape. Additionally, the company has expanded its offerings to include an array of technology-enhanced message amplification tools ranging from sponsored content to podcasting products, all from one online destination. Contact Details News Direct Gregg Castano gregg.castano@newsdirect.com Company Website http://www.newsdirect.com

September 28, 2023 09:36 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Digitalbox CEO upbeat on outlook for 2024 despite challenging first half

Digitalbox PLC

Digitalbox PLC (AIM:DBOX) CEO James Carter speaks to Thomas Warner from Proactive after the digital media company published its interim results for the six months to 30 June 2023. Carter discusses the challenges faced by the business during the first half of the year, noting that despite forecasting a tough period, the company did finish ahead of its internal budget. Two primary issues were highlighted: the reduced traffic from major platforms like Google and Facebook and the risks of algorithm changes and content strikes. Carter cited an instance where Entertainment Daily was blocked from Google's Discover feed, resulting in a significant drop in traffic. Another challenge was a 95% reduction in page reach on Facebook for a post about a Netflix show. To address these challenges, he says Digitalbox has optimised its website performance and is pivoting towards on-platform video content distribution. The company also acquired assets from Social Chain during the post-period, boosting their social media following. Carter expresses optimism about the global ad market's recovery and hints at potential future acquisitions for Digitalbox. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

September 28, 2023 09:26 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Locality Appoints John Brohel as Chief Financial Officer

Locality

Locality, the industry’s preeminent local television solutions provider, today announces the appointment of John Brohel as Chief Financial Officer. Brohel brings 30+ years of experience in global financial and strategic planning to his new role, and has proven to be a key player in the accelerated growth of major entertainment studios. He will play a crucial role in Locality’s investments in technology, people, and products related to solving the needs of advertisers and inventory owners across local broadcast and streaming advertising. He will report directly to Ann Hailer, president of broadcast, and Keith Kazerman, president of streaming at Locality. Brohel joins Locality from AMC Networks where he was executive vice president of finance and responsible for global financial and strategic planning, as well as overall financial management of AMC International business units. Prior to AMC, Brohel held the position of chief financial officer at Leftfield Entertainment. There, Brohel led the financial management of the company's four business units — Leftfield Pictures, Sirens Media, Loud TV, and Outpost Entertainment. “This is an exciting strategic addition to our team,” said Ann Hailer, president of broadcast at Locality. “John’s expertise in financial planning and building structured processes for overall financial success for companies will play a pivotal role in the continued growth of Locality and in turn, our clients.” Keith Kazerman, president of streaming at Locality, added, “John's vast experience, particularly within the entertainment sector, positions us strongly as we bridge the traditional and digital realms within local video. His strategic approach to value creation and financial management will be instrumental in realizing Locality's long-term vision.” “I’m excited to join the Locality team as chief financial officer,” said Brohel. “Locality is committed to increasing collaboration across streaming and broadcast. As chief financial officer, I’m in a unique position to help the company develop new opportunities for clients and drive more dollars to local TV by investing in the right tech, people and products that push our solutions forward.” About Locality Locality is the industry’s preeminent local television solutions provider, committed to addressing the evolving needs of advertisers by unlocking the power of local and driving dollars to the local video marketplace. Locality brings together the best talent in both broadcast and streaming helping brands tap into the mindset of the local consumer and precisely reach optimal markets, nationally. Having served more than 1,500 ad agencies and 4,500 advertisers, to date, Locality offers the best premium inventory that the industry has to offer to help brands optimize their spend and target audiences at scale. Our team resides in 11 office locations across the U.S. designed to strategically service 100% of DMAs. For more information, please visit www.locality.com. Contact Details Julia Worthington +1 973-722-7881 julia@kitehillpr.com

September 28, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Goodway Group Secures Spot on Newsweek’s Top 100 Most Loved Workplaces List 2023

Goodway Group

Goodway Group has been named to Newsweek’s Top 100 Most Loved Workplaces for 2023, ranking #65 among U.S. companies that have successfully established a workplace culture characterized by respect, inspiration, appreciation and employee-centric values. This annual ranking is a result of Newsweek 's collaboration with the Best Practice Institute (BPI), a renowned leadership development and benchmark research company. Results were determined based on a comprehensive survey that included feedback from over 1.4 million employees across different-sized businesses, with workforces ranging from 50 to over 10,000 employees. Based on BPI's Spark Model, the analysis evaluated key areas such as Systemic Collaboration, Positive Vision of the Future, Alignment of Values, Respect and Killer Achievement. Factors like employee engagement, workplace positivity and commitment to the organization's success were carefully considered to identify the Top 100 Most Loved Workplaces. “At Goodway Group, we pride ourselves in how we navigate change, foster a growth mindset and set ourselves and our clients up for continued success. We believe this recognition is a genuine testament to our unwavering dedication to maintaining an award-winning remote work culture – one that puts transparency and employee well-being above all else,” said Kandi Gongora, Chief Transformation and People Officer at Goodway Group. “We strongly believe our success is intertwined with our employees’ success. That’s why our infinity loop approach ensures our people feel valued, supported and empowered so they in turn can provide the highest level of service to our clients.” Our fully remote team comes together twice a year for an incredible week-long experience in a different U.S. city where employees can learn, collaborate for strategic alignment and build meaningful connections. And that's not the only way we bring our team together – all our employees receive an Oculus headset upon hire and are encouraged to participate in virtual team-building activities throughout the year. At Goodway, we understand the importance of ongoing education to stay relevant and ahead of the competition, which is why we offer employees a comprehensive learning platform, a $1,500 personal learning budget each year, tuition reimbursement and even set aside a day each month for employees to focus solely on upskilling and building future-ready skills. We believe investing in our employees' growth is crucial to providing our clients with the best possible outcomes. Amidst the hustle and bustle of modern corporate culture, Goodway also gives employees the opportunity to embrace the power of deep focus and uninterrupted productivity. With our innovative flex Fridays initiative, we recommend no internal meetings to provide our employees with ample time and space to dwell deeply on critical work projects, ideate new strategies or simply recharge their batteries. And unlike many holding companies that are moving employees to a hybrid work environment or back to the office full-time post-pandemic, this isn’t Goodway’s plan: We’ve been a remote workplace since 2006 – trailblazing this space long before it gained popularity in the pandemic era. “With the dynamic workforce and competition for top talent, more companies are recognizing the importance of employee engagement and commitment,” said Nancy Cooper, Global Editor in Chief, Newsweek. “The workplaces that have demonstrated a commitment to their employees in 2023 are more likely to attract top talent and deliver strong business outcomes.” "Attracting and retaining top talent continues to be a challenge and top priority of executive leadership,” said Louis Carter, CEO, Best Practice Institute. “The companies on this list have committed to listening intently to their employees and then creating a better workplace where employees love to come to work.” See Newsweek’s full 2023 Most Loved Workplaces list. Methodology To identify the top 100 companies for the Newsweek ranking, companies were evaluated and scored as follows: 35 percent of the initial score was based on employee survey responses; 25 percent was derived from analysis of external public ratings from sites such as Comparably, Careerbliss, Glassdoor, Indeed and Google; and 40 percent came from direct interviews with and written responses from company officials. Newsweek then conducted additional research into every company on the list, as well as the top runners-up, to determine the final list of 100 companies and their ranking. (The list includes both U.S. firms and companies with a strong U.S. presence that are based overseas.) To learn more about career opportunities at Goodway Group, please visit our Careers page. About Goodway Group Goodway Group is a leading data-driven and technology-enabled digital media and marketing services firm with teams in the U.S. and the U.K. Our diverse team of digital strategists, media practitioners, technologists and data scientists have won the most prestigious awards for innovative marketing technology, impactful work and inclusive remote-first places to work including being honored as a multiyear Ad Age Best Places to Work, AdExchanger’s Best Use of Technology by an Agency Award and three MarTech Breakthrough Awards. The firm deploys deep expertise across both consumer and B2B marketing, including brand-performance advertising, retail media and commerce, and advanced analytics using proprietary digital programmatic technologies, data, analytics methodologies, and consultation. Goodway Group is an independent and remote-first media and marketing services firm with a 90+ year history. Find Goodway Group online at Goodwaygroup.com or follow us on Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter) or LinkedIn. Contact Details Julia Worthington +1 972-722-7881 julia@kitehillpr.com Company Website https://www.goodwaygroup.com/

September 27, 2023 01:41 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Shopistry Launches White-Label eCommerce Platform Enabling Banks, Merchant Acquirers, and Payment Processors

Shopistry

Toronto, Ontario -- Shopistry, a leading commerce solution provider powering local merchants to leading brands, today announced the launch of Private Label Commerce, the industry’s first white-label eCommerce solution. Banks, merchant service providers, payment providers, and software companies can now offer merchants a modern, no-code online store and omni-channel solution, integrated with their existing offerings, growing client value, gaining revenue, and reducing churn. The innovative approach is designed to empower traditional fintechs to deepen client relationships and compete with software providers that are increasingly offering payments and financial products to business owners as a catalyst for growth. “Owning the customer relationship is critical and the more indispensable you become to your merchant’s business the better. This why eCommerce software companies have increasingly moved into payments, loans, and more, putting pressure on traditional fintech companies. Shopistry’s Private Label Commerce levels the playing field; it’s a game changer to offer your clients a Shopify-like solution without the work,” said Jaafer Haidar, CEO at Shopistry. Private Label Commerce is the latest from Shopistry and introduces a focus on small/medium businesses to compliment the company's existing products for leading brands and media and entertainment that powered growth at Oura Ring, Black Rifle Coffee, NEON and other leading brands. “We’re focused on running our business and needed a solution that’s easy and integrated with our payments and banking so we can manage everything in one place. We tried others but Shopistry is easy to use and has a lot of features. The fact that it’s offered by our payments company means we only have one place to go for anything we need,” said Matt Boom, partner at Boomerz Boxing & Fitness.” Shopistry has partnered with major merchant service providers and is now open for additional partners. Key benefits include: White-Label & Supported: End-to-End software, videos, managed support by Shopistry Sales Enablement Program: Sales support and training to enable your sales effort Turn-key Mobile & Web Stores: Merchants quickly start selling online Dynamic Checkout: Single-page checkout, integrated payments, BOPIS, Shipping more Simplified Operations: Automatic product, inventory, order, and payment integration enables seamless operations without changes to business processes Seamless Omni-channel: Integration with in-store terminals and systems to deliver a seamless omni-channel solution Continuous Innovation with AI, Social and more: Ongoing product innovation drive further value to clients, keeping partners ahead of the game without costs To learn more about how Shopistry Private Label Commerce can benefit your organization, please visit shopistry.com contact partners@shopistry.com. For press inquiries please contact press@shopistry.com. About Shopistry Shopistry commerce software and solutions empower partners and merchants of all sizes to innovate and grow their business online hassle-free. Shopistry powers SMBs to leading growth brands like Oura Ring, Honed, NEON Studios, and more with modern functionality, simplicity, performance, and flexibility to adapt and grow as commerce continues to evolve. To learn more visit shopistry.com. Shopistry® is a registered trademark of Shopistry Inc. Third-party trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners. Contact Details Bryanne Baker press@shopistry.com Company Website https://www.shopistry.com

September 27, 2023 11:58 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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RuaTech Redefines IT Excellence Using Comcast Business Technology

Comcast New Mexico

Comcast Business today announced that it is providing RuaTech with technology solutions – including Comcast Business Mobile lines and Comcast Business Internet – that help the New Mexico-based business create a more connected, agile and productive work environment, empowering its teams to deliver exceptional results and bolster client satisfaction. Founded with a vision to redefine IT landscapes, RuaTech has rapidly emerged as a frontrunner in providing comprehensive technology solutions to businesses of all sizes. With a track record of seamlessly integrating cutting-edge systems into diverse business operations, RuaTech has gained a reputation for excellence in optimizing IT infrastructure for enhanced productivity. The company offers a variety of IT services to its clients, including diagnosing and troubleshooting technology issues as well as providing recommendations on new tools or processes needed to optimize their clients’ operations. RuaTech is a small business that operates out of Silver City, a rural area in New Mexico. With one office space in the city, the company’s employees are often connecting virtually with their clients, resolving IT issues without ever being present in a physical space. Recognizing the pivotal role that connectivity plays in its operations, the company needed to find a technology provider that offered reliable, fast service despite the less populated location it’s based in. Comcast Business was the best choice for the company’s needs. “Our customers come to us to resolve technology problems, which means we don’t have any room for technology issues on our end – thankfully, Comcast Business’ solutions have provided us with the peace of mind an IT organization needs to do business,” said José Velasco, CEO and owner or RuaTech, who also oversees day-to-day technical operations. “Moreover, they take the time to have conversations with us on our needs, which makes our small business feel just as important as any bigger company.” The technology solutions provided by Comcast Business are perfectly tailored to bolster RuaTech's IT operations. Comcast Business Mobile lines ensure that RuaTech's team can remain connected and agile, facilitating efficient communication and real-time collaboration regardless of whether they are in office, or offsite. Furthermore, Comcast Business Internet services empower RuaTech to handle complex projects, data-intensive tasks and client interactions quickly and reliably, ultimately enhancing the overall client experience. “RuaTech's innovative approach to IT services aligns seamlessly with our commitment to delivering advanced connectivity and communication tools, making them a perfect fit for Comcast technology solutions,” said Robert Thompson, vice president of business services for Comcast’s Mountain West Region. “We are proud to provide technology to help RuaTech reshape the landscape of IT support and redefine how businesses harness the power of technology.” About Comcast Business Comcast Business offers a broad suite of technology solutions to keep businesses of all sizes ready for what’s next. With a range of offerings including connectivity, secure networking, advanced cybersecurity, and unified communications solutions, Comcast Business is partnering with business and technology leaders across industries and integrating Masergy, a leader in software defined networking, to help drive businesses forward. Backed by a next-generation network, Comcast Business has been recognized for its growth, innovation, and leadership in global secure networking. For more information, call 800-501-6000. Follow on Twitter @ComcastBusiness and on other social media networks at http://business.comcast.com/social. About Comcast Corporation Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company that connects people to moments that matter. We are principally focused on connectivity, aggregation, and streaming with 57 million customer relationships across the United States and Europe. We deliver broadband, wireless, and video through our Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky brands; create, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, Universal Studio Group, Sky Studios, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, multiple cable networks, Peacock, NBCUniversal News Group, NBC Sports, Sky News, and Sky Sports; and provide memorable experiences at Universal Parks and Resorts in the United States and Asia. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. Contact Details Chloe Huard chloe.huard@finnpartners.com Company Website https://newmexico.comcast.com/

September 27, 2023 09:09 AM Mountain Daylight Time

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Roberts & Ryan Inc., America's first Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned (SDVO) broker-dealer, is pleased to welcome Major General Austin “Sparky” Renforth (Ret.) as their latest Senior Advisor.

Roberts & Ryan, Inc.

Major General Austin Renforth (Ret.) joins Roberts & Ryan as a veteran of the United States Marine Corps. Over the course of his 40-year military career Maj. Gen. Renforth has held a variety of leadership and command positions. Maj. Gen. Renforth enlisted in the United States Navy in 1982. After two years in the Navy, he received an appointment to the United States Naval Academy, graduating with a BS degree in Mathematics and receiving a commission as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps. Maj. Gen. Renforth has had the privilege of command at every level. He served as a Rifle Platoon, Heavy Machinegun Platoon, and Dragon Platoon Commander at 1st Battalion, 2nd Marines, participating in Operation DESERT SHIELD/STORM. He also served as a Platoon Commander at 2nd Light Armored Infantry Battalion and deployed as a Detachment Commander with 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marines in support of Operation PROVIDE PROMISE. Maj. Gen. Renforth commanded rifle companies at 1st Battalion, 2nd Marines and 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines. At the battalion level, he commanded the Maritime Special Purpose Force while deployed with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. Later, he commanded 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion and deployed twice in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. He later assumed command of 7th Marine Regiment and deployed in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. Afterwards, he was Commanding General of Training Command, and then Commanding General of Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island and Eastern Recruiting Region. He again deployed to Iraq as the Commanding General of Task Force Iraq in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. Maj. Gen. Renforth’s staff assignments include tours as Protocol Officer, US Central Command; Operations Officer 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines; Faculty Advisor, Amphibious Warfare School; Executive Officer, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines and deployed to Okinawa, Japan; Operations Officer, 5th Marines; Operations Officer, Regimental Combat Team 1 and deployed in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM in Fallujah; Branch Chief, Special Plans Branch, J-5, US Northern Command; and Chief of Staff, 1st Marine Division. Additionally, Maj. Gen. Renforth served as the Chief of Staff NORAD and USNORTHCOM in Colorado Springs. Most recently Maj. Gen. Renforth was the Commanding General of the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center and the Marine Corps Air Ground Training Command. Maj. Gen. Renforth is a graduate of The Basic School, the Infantry Officer Course, Amphibious Warfare School, Armed Forces Staff College, NATO Defense College in Rome, Italy, and the High Command and Staff Course in the United Kingdom. Maj. Gen Renforth was a member of the Marine Corps Rugby Team, has worked as the Head Coach for the Naval Academy Sprint Football Team, and as an assistant coach for the Navy Division 1 Men’s Rugby Team. About Roberts and Ryan, Inc. Roberts & Ryan, Inc. is a Service-Disabled Veteran Owned (SDVO) broker-dealer with execution capabilities in capital markets, equities, and fixed-income trading. The firm was founded in 1987 by a United States Marine Corps Vietnam combat veteran and Purple Heart recipient. With over $1.8 million in committed donations since 2018, Roberts & Ryan is active in donating to charitable foundations that make significant positive impacts in the lives of Veterans and their families, primarily focusing on general wellness, mental health, and career transition. Contact Details Michael C. Del Priore +1 646-859-4061 mdelpriore@roberts-ryan.com Company Website https://www.roberts-ryan.com

September 27, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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LevLane Advertising Named Finalist for Ragan's PR Daily Awards

LevLane

LevLane Advertising, a Philadelphia-based full-service advertising agency known for its expertise in strategic marketing and communications, has been named a finalist in Ragan’s PR Daily Awards for its submission: Understanding Consumer Behavior During Inflation, in the original research category. Ragan’s PR Daily Awards celebrate the successful campaigns, initiatives, people and teams in the communication, PR, marketing and employee well-being industries. LevLane worked with its client, Provident Bank (Iselin, NJ), to create an original survey that aimed to discover how consumers were adjusting their routine spending and travel habits in response to rising prices. The campaign featured the strategic use of original research to gain insights into consumer behaviors and spending habits during this time of intense inflation. By employing a comprehensive PR strategy that included open-ended survey questions, sound-bite generation, a press release, targeted pitching and social media outreach, the team achieved significant earned media coverage by top-tier and target press outlets. “We developed this survey during a time when inflation was sky high. Our main objective was to better understand consumer behaviors and sentiment related to their everyday spending, saving and travel habits at a time when inflation was at its peak,” said Liz Weir, chief marketing officer at LevLane. “The campaign earned 76 pieces of coverage across top-tier national and international media outlets. Some of our notable placements included features in “The Hill” and “The Daily Mail – US Edition,” a mention in “Fortune,” and additional coverage in various trade and local target publications.” Earned media coverage resulted in a total audience reach of 1.26 million, engaging a broad range of consumers. The press release itself achieved an overall reach of 3.6 billion, demonstrating the widespread interest surrounding the research findings. “We recognize the impact that inflation has had on consumers over the past few years and are committed to addressing the financial concerns of our customers,” said Keith Buscio, first vice president, director of public relations and communications at Provident Bank. “As bankers, it’s important for us to gain these insights to strengthen our reputation as a trusted financial advisor during challenging economic times." Along with Weir, the project team included Lauren Stralo, PR supervisor (LevLane); Lauren Hepburn, PR specialist (LevLane); Keith Buscio, first vice president, director of public relations and communications (Provident Bank); and Christina Payne, communications specialist (Provident Bank). Ragan will recognize finalists –and announce category winners – at an event on December 15 at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. About LevLane LevLane Advertising is an award-winning, full-service, independent advertising agency in Philadelphia, PA that has been building brands that people love for nearly 40 years. For more information about LevLane and capabilities, please follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook. Contact Details LevLane Advertising lstralo@levlane.com +1 484-747-0172 lstralo@levlane.com Company Website https://www.levlane.com

September 26, 2023 10:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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