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READY FOR BUSINESS FUND IS DISTRIBUTING MORE THAN $200,000 IN CASH GRANTS TO 76 SMALL BUSINESSES IN WASHINGTON

Comcast Washington

SEATTLE, November 7, 2022 – The Ready for Business Fund – a relief program launched by GSBA, Washington State’s LGBTQ and allied chamber of commerce, and Comcast – is distributing $2,500 and $4,000 cash grants to 76 small businesses throughout Washington state. The Ready for Business Fund was founded in the summer of 2020 with an initial $100,000 investment from Comcast and designation of GSBA as the fund manager. To date, the fund has supported more than 200 small businesses in Washington with nearly $1 million in financial support and wraparound services. The Ready for Business Fund was renewed this year with an additional $75,000 in funding from Comcast and GSBA, reprising its role as the program and fund manager. Grants from the Ready for Business Fund will be made possible by more than $150,000 in additional donations from Pepsi, T-Mobile, US Bank, Meta, and Verity Credit Union and a $100,000 grant from King County. These funds will now support small business owners across all industries, including local restaurants, bookstores, bistros, shops and stores, which are an important part of the social fabric in our communities. “GSBA recognizes the importance of investing in the small businesses that are critical to a thriving community and economy,” said Ilona Lohrey, GSBA president and CEO. “We are proud to once again partner with Comcast to grow our Ready for Business Fund to support a diverse group of business owners who need our help now more than ever.” The Ready for Business Fund was created to support small businesses in Washington, especially those owned by LGBTQ people, Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC), and women, who are at greater risk in today’s uncertain economy. Grant recipients also include small businesses located in rural areas of Washington that lack proximity to resources. “We're grateful for our continued partnership with the GSBA to recognize so many resilient small businesses through the Ready for Business Fund,” said Diem Ly, Community Impact director, Comcast Washington. “We at Comcast believe and act on our shared value that ensuring equitable access to resources for BIPOC and LGBTQ-owned businesses means all of our communities and neighborhoods benefit in the long-run.” Feel free to adjust as you see fit! “Between recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and concerns over inflation, our small businesses have faced some of the most difficult struggles over the last few years, and it is up to our community to step up and support them. That’s why partnerships like the one between King County, GSBA and Comcast are so imperative right now,” shared King County Councilmember Joe McDermott. GSBA assembled a selection committee consisting of diverse community and business leaders to evaluate the applications received. Notifications to grant applicants about the status of their application have begun and awards will be delivered beginning this week. All grant recipients will also receive wrap-around services, including GSBA membership and consulting. Ready for Business Fund grant recipients include: More information is available at theGSBA.org/ready-for-business. About GSBA Established in 1981, GSBA is Washington State's LGBTQ and allied chamber of commerce and is the largest of its kind in North America. The chamber represents over 1,400 small business, corporate, and nonprofit members who share the values of promoting diversity, equity, equality, and inclusion in the workplace. GSBA proudly serves as a connector across the region, bringing communities together through business while advocating for civil rights and small business. GSBA also promotes LGBTQ tourism through Travel Out Seattle, advocates for small businesses in Seattle’s Capitol Hill Neighborhood through the Capitol Hill Business Alliance (CHBA) and invests in the next generation of LGBTQ and allied leaders through the GSBA Scholarship & Education Fund. 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 broadband, aggregation, and streaming with over 56 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 Andy Colley Andy_Colley@Comcast.com Company Website https://www.thegsba.org/business-resources/ready-for-business

November 07, 2022 08:56 AM Pacific Standard Time

St. Supéry to Highlight Leading Philanthropic Entrepreneurs With #GivingTuesday Chats

St. Supéry Estate Vineyards & Winery

Join St. Supéry CEO, Emma Swain and leaders of three exceptional organizations in November. On zoom or the winery’s social platforms, find out how these top Philanthropic Entrepreneurs address critical issues of health care, land conservation, education, and social equity. All sessions will be nationally broadcasted as a podcast series. St. Supéry, a philanthropic leader and estate winery in the Napa Valley, spreads inspiration by spotlighting the innovative and creative solutions these organizations are deploying locally, nationally, and globally. Winery CEO, Emma Swain states, “Only one day of Giving in November isn’t enough. Some people just watch change happen in the world, and there are leaders who create that change. Meet these Philanthropic Entrepreneurs who are improving the world for generations to come. We know they will inspire you and bring joy to your day.” Hear from Doug Parker, President & CEO of Land Trust Napa County (Nov. 8 th at 4 PM), Brett deLeuze, President of ZD Wines with The deLeuze Family Endowed Professorship (Nov. 15 th at 4 PM), & Kim Mazzuca, President & CEO of 10,000 Degrees® (Nov. 22 nd at 4 PM). All of these special organizations focus on enriching our community and beyond. November 8 th, 46 Years of Saving Land in Napa with Doug Parker, President & CEO of Land Trust of Napa County This local nonprofit works cooperatively with landowners and our community, protecting agricultural land, water resources, wildlife and wildlife corridors, scenic open space, forests, ranches, wildflower meadows and native biodiversity throughout Napa County. They permanently protect land through conservation easements and direct land acquisition to limit future development in critical environments. By carefully prioritizing their activities, the Land Trust continually expands the network of conservation lands that provide clean water, wildlife habitat and corridors, thriving agricultural lands, and access to nature for all those who live in and visit the Napa Valley. November 15 th, The deLeuze Family Endowed Professorship with Brett deLeuze, President of ZD Wines This professorship fund is established to recognize and further promote the outstanding research approach of Dr. Joseph Tuscano and the UC Davis Cancer Center in pursuing a non-toxic cure for lymphoma that will have widespread availability for lymphoma patients. When a cure for lymphoma is found, this fund will be designated toward non-toxic cures in perpetuity. November 22 nd, 10,000 Degrees® with Kim Mazzuca, President & CEO Believe. Partner. Connect. Since 1981, this leading California equity-focused scholarship provider and college success nonprofit has helped more than 20,000 students from low-income backgrounds achieve their college dreams, and now reach more than 12,000 students and their families each year. The St. Supéry #GivingTuesday sessions are free to join. Grab a glass and toast these innovative programs and creative fundraising efforts. Start your inspiration with a glass of St. Supéry wines from the wine giveback series, knowing that each four-bottle assortment provides $50 to your choice of featured organization. Continue your inspiration with a donation to one of these organizations and reward yourself with the offer below: Wine and travel aficionados are encouraged to plan their next trip to the Napa Valley around giving back. Select the cause and date of your preference and join Emma and up to 20 other generous individuals for intimate summer Giving Back Estate Luncheons paired with its estate wines for $500 per person. Note St. Supéry in your direct donation to the featured charity to join the fun! June 16, 2023 | 10,000 Degrees® June 23, 2023 | The deLeuze Family Endowed Professorship Chef, Jill deLeuze Billeci of ZD Winery will join St. Supéry Estate Chef for this luncheon. Wine pairings from both, St. Supéry Winery and ZD Winery. June 30, 2023 | Land Trust of Napa County Get the zoom links to join the #GivingTuesday Chats and find out more about the wine giveback sets at https://www.stsupery.com/givingtuesday/ Previous giving Tuesday conversations included Oceans 2050, One Mind Institute, Humanity Showers, Primo Center, Aim High, and Voices of our City. They are available on our Podcast channel: https://tinyurl.com/past-giving-Tuesday-chats. About St. Supéry Estate Vineyards & Winery St. Supéry, a CHANEL owned winery, is one of the rare 100% estate grown wineries and is a Certified Napa Green Winery and Vineyards. It is located in the renowned Rutherford growing region in the heart of Napa Valley. The winery specializes in sauvignon blanc and red Bordeaux varietals. St. Supéry Press Kit and posted press release: https://stsupery.com/trade-media/press/ St. Supéry Giving Tuesday images: https://tinyurl.com/St-Supery-Giving-Tuesday St. Supéry images: https://tinyurl.com/St-Supery-Images ### St. Supéry Estate Vineyards & Winery · 8440 St. Helena Hwy. · PO Box 38 · Rutherford, CA 94573 Web stsupery.com · Phone 707.963.4507 · Fax 707.963.4526 Contact Details For more information, contact Annie Watterson annie@stsupery.com

November 04, 2022 05:00 PM Pacific Daylight Time

Cold and Flu Season 2022: How Over-the-Counter Remedies Can Help

YourUpdateTV

Flu season has almost always been a predictable part of every winter, but the COVID-19 pandemic threw things out of whack. The 2020-2021 flu season was practically non-existent due to COVID-19 precautions and lockdowns, and last year’s flu season was definitely mild compared to pre-pandemic years. Recently, Best-Selling Author and Medical Contributor Dr. Ian Smith teamed up with Mucinex on a nationwide satellite media tour to discuss the upcoming cold and flu season and some resources that can help. A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://youtu.be/c4AY6pLO1kU Many health experts are predicting the 2022-2023 flu season will be a severe one, due to several factors. The main reason the flu basically disappeared the last two years was the behavior changes people made to avoid COVID – staying home, avoiding public gatherings, wearing masks, and not traveling. That also prevented the flu virus from spreading like usual. Those measures have been mostly abandoned – in addition, without the last two ‘flu seasons’ many individuals’ immunity to seasonal flu will be decreased. It is possible that we could see a higher rate of severe illness due to the flu this year. Many experts have looked to Australia, where flu season runs from April to September. They are just coming out their most devastating flu season in five years, which could be a precursor as to what we can expect to see in the U.S. The best way to prevent and limit the effects if you do contact the flu is to get vaccinated. It can take up to two weeks for the vaccine to be most effective after administration, and since the influenza virus is already circulating, it is best to do this as soon as possible. Key preventative measures like washing your hands often and covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and sneezing into your elbow if you don’t have a tissue can be extremely effective in preventing the spread of germs. If you do find yourself with flu-like symptoms, such as cough and congestion, there are options available to help you feel better and over-the-counter remedies are the first stop. While over-the-counter remedies don’t cure the flu virus, they can go a long way towards helping treat the symptoms. Dr. Ian’s go-to is Mucinex Extended-Release Tablets, because they are clinically proven to last up to 12 hours. As the #1 pharmacist recommended expectorant, Mucinex Extended-Release Tablets relieve chest congestion and thin and loosen mucus, which can provide relief for your chest congestion, making your cough more productive. People must use over-the-counter products as directed. If symptoms persist, you should contact your healthcare professional and get checked out if deemed necessary. You can find Mucinex online at Mucinex.com or stop by Walmart or your local pharmacy retailer. About Dr Ian Smith Dr. Ian Smith is the author of the #1 New York Times bestselling books, SHRED: THE REVOLUTIONARY DIET, and SUPER SHRED: The Big Results Diet, and BLAST THE SUGAR OUT. Dr. Smith’s highly anticipated newest book, The Clean 20, became an instant New York Times best seller, helping hundreds of thousands of people reduce bad sugars from their diet, lose weight, lower blood sugar levels, and cut the cravings. Dr. Smith was appointed by President Obama to a second term on the prestigious President’s Council on Fitness, Sports, and Nutrition. He is currently the medical contributor and co-host of the nationally syndicated television show The Rachael Ray Show. He is a former co-host of the Emmy award winning syndicated daytime talk show, The Doctors. He also served as the medical/diet expert for six seasons on VH1’s highly-rated Celebrity Fit Club, and is the creator and founder of the national health initiatives The 50 Million Pound Challenge and The Makeover Mile. Dr. Smith is the former medical correspondent for NBC News network and for NewsChannel 4 in New York, where he filed reports for NBC Nightly News and The Today Show as well as WNBC’s various news broadcasts. He has appeared extensively on various broadcasts including The Oprah Winfrey Show, The View, Dr. Oz, Steve Harvey Show, The Talk, Larry King Live, Anderson Cooper 360, CNN, MSNBC and many more. He has written for various publications including Time, Newsweek, Men’s Fitness, and the New York Daily News, and has been featured in several other publications including, People, Redbook, Details Magazine, Essence, Ebony, University of Chicago Medicine on the Midway, Cosmopolitan, and Black Enterprise. Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

November 04, 2022 10:05 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Spence-Chapin Services to Families and Children Elevates Stories of Adoption in Special Campaign for National Adoption Awareness Month

Spence-Chapin

On November 1, Spence-Chapin Services to Families and Children marks National Adoption Awareness Month with community-wide offerings that celebrate the diverse stories of the adoption constellation and seek to counter misconceptions that continue to permeate mainstream notions around adoption in the United States. While more than 100,000 children are adopted in the US each year[1], adoption continues to be widely misunderstood. In the United States today, 56% of American adults report that they are not familiar with adoption, and yet 40% of Americans know someone who is connected to adoption[2]. Persistent misconceptions around adoption can perpetuate negative stereotypes and leave those connected to adoption feeling isolated and misunderstood. National Adoption Awareness Month provides critical space for dismantling myths around adoption and elevating the varied and unique stories and experiences of those connected to adoption, and that make up the diverse adoption constellation. Spence-Chapin will contribute to the spread of adoption awareness throughout the month of November through an in-person event and multi-platform digital campaign. The event, Stories of Adoption, a panel discussion taking place on Wednesday, November 16, at 6PM at Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Plaza in Brooklyn, NYC, will unite adoptees, adoptive parents, and birth parents around their stories of adoption. Attendees will have the chance to ask panelists questions and share their own experiences. The conversation will be moderated by Monica Baker, Director of Domestic Adoption Programs at Spence-Chapin, and is free and open to the public—those connected to adoption, and those who are interested in learning more about adoption or in hearing stories of the unique lived experiences of others. The event also welcomes professionals in the field of health care and social work who want to learn more about adoption and related services to best serve their patients and clients. “This event is meant to celebrate, reflect, and honor the unique and important experiences that make up the adoption constellation and to increase awareness around the diversity that exists in the adoption community. We encourage attendees to be active participants in this immersive and meaningful event,” said Linda Alexandre, Spence-Chapin Chief Program Officer. In addition to the community event, Spence-Chapin will launch a special digital series, Stories of the Constellation, on social media and through its podcast, Adoption Talk by Spence-Chapin, which will feature interviews with exceptional members of the adoption community who take a deep dive into their diverse narratives with listeners. Topics for this series include Search and Reunion of Birth Families, Kinship Adoption, Sibling Stories, and Adoptee Voices. To learn more about Spence-Chapin’s community programming for National Adoption Awareness Month, visit https://spence-chapin.org/naam/. [1] Adoption by the Numbers, National Council for Adoption. [2] Dave Thomas Foundation’s 2022 U.S. Adoption and Foster Care Attitudes Survey About Spence-Chapin: Spence-Chapin has been offering exceptional adoption and family services for more than 100 years. Its mission is to help find loving families for children whatever their needs or circumstances and provide counseling and lifelong support for all children and families to whom they have been born or entrusted. Spence-Chapin’s roots date back to the early 1900s with the pioneering work of Ms. Clara Spence and Dr. and Mrs. Henry Chapin, who established nurseries for infants abandoned on the streets of New York City, led humanitarian efforts, and created families through adoption. Spence-Chapin has since expanded to include other comprehensive support programs. The organization’s award-winning efforts have served more than 25,000 women, children, and families through domestic, international and special needs adoption, post-adoption support, and humanitarian aid programs such as the Granny Program. Find out more at www.spence-chapin.org. Contact Details Christine Pohl +1 212-360-0285 cpohl@spence-chapin.org Company Website https://spence-chapin.org/naam/

November 04, 2022 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Educational Travel Nonprofit to Announce 2023 D-Day History Trip to France Exclusive to Veterans

Road Scholar

This Veterans Day, November 11, Road Scholar, the not-for-profit leader in educational travel for older adults, will release an exclusive experience just for military veterans (or active duty service members) and their travel companions in 2023. The nine-day educational program will take a small group of 12-24 veterans from Paris to the beaches of Normandy to learn about war history, art history and the places where these two faces of France intersect. “This will be a once-in-a-lifetime occasion for the group,” said Road Scholar’s Program Operations Director in France, Amale Bourhim. “Not only will we have a deeper study of the military history of every site we visit, but simply the experience of learning together with fellow veterans is sure to create a distinctive sense of camaraderie and a bond that will make this trip memorable.” Based on one of Road Scholar’s most popular European programs, The Best of Northern France: Paris and Normandy, Road Scholar will be offering one exclusive trip Sept. 28-Oct. 6, 2023, just for veterans. Additional military history programming will be included, along with a visit to the Musée de l'Armée (Army Museum) in Paris and a field trip to the Mémorial de Caen, commemorating World War II’s “Battle for Caen.” This program will also be offered at a special 10% price reduction for the military veterans, active duty service members and their travel companions. This all-inclusive program includes accommodations, meals, field trips, a Group Leader and more. It begins in Paris, where participants will learn about the city’s occupation and liberation. Local experts in Montmartre, Monet’s Giverny and Honfleur will share stories of famous impressionist painters and the French art that was protected and lost during WWII. The group will also visit Mont Saint Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Perhaps the most impactful day will be when the group of veterans visits Omaha Beach to walk in the footsteps of WWII soldiers and the Normandy American Cemetery, where together they will take part in a moving ceremony to pay respects to those who made the greatest sacrifice of all on June 6, 1944. “Many Road Scholar participants and alumni are veterans of the armed forces, and our military history programs from Gettysburg to Pearl Harbor are some of our most popular learning adventures,” says Road Scholar’s Chief Program Officer, Maeve Hartney. “We’re proud to be honoring the legacy of these 12 American heroes and the courageous veterans who fought in World War II.” It is important to note that this program is rated “Activity Level: Let’s Go!” Participants should be able to walk three miles per day, often on cobblestone streets or hilly terrain, and navigate stairs in Metro stations. Find more details about this exclusive learning adventure at www.roadscholar.org/veterans. About Road Scholar: Road Scholar is the nation’s largest not-for-profit educational travel organization for adults — a true university of the world — offering thousands of programs in more than 100 countries and 50 states. Road Scholar educational adventures are created by Elderhostel, the world leader in educational travel since 1975. Learn more at press.roadscholar.org. Contact Details Road Scholar Kelsey Knoedler Perri +1 617-521-5301 Kelsey.Perri@roadscholar.org Company Website https://www.roadscholar.org/about/press

November 03, 2022 11:52 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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SIGMA America Introduces New Website Redesigned for Streamlined Browsing Experience on Any Platform

SIGMA CORPORATION OF AMERICA

SIGMA Corporation of America, the US subsidiary of SIGMA Corporation (CEO: Kazuto Yamaki; headquarters: Asao-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa, Japan), a leading lens and camera manufacturer for both still and cinema applications, is pleased to announce the debut of its new website. Rebuilt from the ground up, www.sigmaphoto.com is optimized for an informative, enjoyable, and visually compelling experience on screens of all sizes, from phones to studio monitors. A core goal of the new site was to improve the experience for all site visitors, wherever they are, and on whatever device they may be using. This started with a new foundation, built on Magento Cloud Commerce 2, that significantly reduced load times. Combined with rethinking the product organization structure and modernizing the user experience for a mobile-first approach, this enabled a robust and easy-to-navigate site that is performant on all devices. "Our new design modernizes our online experience, allowing customers to easily find and compare the depth and breadth of SIGMA lens and camera offerings in a visually engaging format," says Mark Amir-Hamzeh, SIGMA America President. "From hobbyist photographers to Hollywood filmmakers, the site has been crafted to inform and inspire while guiding the user to the right gear for their purposes." The e-commerce and dealer-finder focus is complemented by a wealth of educational content from SIGMA's talented team of contributors on the redesigned blog. The site itself also delivers on the product promise. SIGMA is a leader in crafting tools for creative visual content and, as such, the site is richly illustrated with imagery captured with its products. Most of the photography comes from SIGMA America Ambassadors, a group of elite working professionals who have chosen SIGMA photographic and cinematic gear for their work, including Global Vision lenses in the Art, Sports, Contemporary and Cine lines, and often incorporating the innovative fp and fp L full-frame mirrorless cameras. The website was designed and developed in partnership with Blue Collar Agency, Hood River, Oregon, SIGMA America's digital agency of record, under the direction of managing partners Rob McCready and Tom Lehman. Key updates include: Revamped homepage displays new announcements and information in a visually stunning way Improved product search functionality via new taxonomies "Build Your Own Kit" Cine lens bundle pricing tool Implementation of a real-time, dynamic "find a product" data exchange with authorized dealers' stock Streamlined customer experience and full purchase functionality on all platforms Educational discount programs for students and educators Streamlined product registration Improved online warranty support services Redesigned blog and workshops/events pages New Press Room for company news, product images, and media inquiries Experience the new website at www.sigmaphoto.com. Screenshot of the new SIGMA America website Screenshot of the new SIGMA America website Screenshot of the new SIGMA America website About SIGMA Corporation Craftsmanship. Precision. Dedication. Since 1961, SIGMA has been devoted to the pursuit of advancing photographic technology. Unique to the industry, the family-owned business produces its high-quality, award-winning still photo and cinema camera lenses, DSLR and mirrorless cameras, flashes, filters and accessories from its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located in Aizu, Japan. In 2012, the company introduced SIGMA Global Vision with three distinct lens lines: Art, Contemporary and Sports. Designed for industry camera mount systems including Canon, Leica, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Sony and SIGMA, each lens is handcrafted and tested in Japan to ensure a high-performance, premium product that is purpose-built to last. In 2016, the SIGMA Cine lens lineup was launched, further cementing SIGMA as an innovator in imaging engineering. Embodying the core optical DNA that has defined the SIGMA benchmark of excellence, SIGMA Cine lenses meet the needs of advanced 6k and 8k cinema production. Forming the landmark L-Mount alliance alongside Leica and Panasonic in 2018, SIGMA continues its storied tradition of imaging excellence through groundbreaking innovations such as the native L-mount SIGMA fp and fp L full-frame mirrorless digital cameras, announced in July 2019 and March 2021 respectively. These products, along with over 30 award-winning SIGMA Global Vision lenses available in native L-Mount format, demonstrate SIGMA's continued commitment to the creative community through expanded product offerings. With the fp, fp L and these lenses, even more users can now leverage SIGMA's renowned optical formula to achieve their creative vision with ease. ### For information about SIGMA America, please visit sigmaphoto.com and SIGMA Blog for helpful information about our products. Follow SIGMA America on social media! SIGMA Photo: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram SIGMA Cine: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Contact Details SIGMA Corporation of America Jack Howard +1 631-201-7381 sigma.pr@sigmaphoto.com Company Website https://www.sigma-global.com/en/

November 03, 2022 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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MySize Acquires Naiz Fit To Consolidate Apparel Sizing Solutions And Position Company As A Potential Leader Helping Serve $1 Trillion Global Fashion Industry

MySize, Inc.

The nearly $1 trillion global fashion industry is no stranger to innovation. Thanks to technological advancements in the e-commerce fashion industry, apparel, footwear and accessories sales ballooned in 2021, hitting $180.5 billion in the U.S. alone. The sector is expected to grow by 13% this year, with consumers set to spend $204.9 billion on fashion items online. But while the industry looks promising, there are some disadvantages to shopping online — such as receiving an ill-fitting garment — that could affect the consumer experience and, ultimately, the sector’s growth. With returns being a commonly potentially huge blow to retailers’ bottom lines, MySize Inc. (NASDAQ: MYSZ) has developed solutions that could benefit both sides of the shopping experience. Measurement Solutions Founded in 2014, the company is an omnichannel e-commerce platform and provider of artificial intelligence (AI)-driven measurement solutions to drive revenue growth and reduce costs for its business clients. MySize ’s MySizeID is based on sophisticated algorithms and cutting-edge technology with broad applications for apparel sales in e-commerce and hybrid settings. The company recently launched FirstLook Smart Mirror, a mirrorlike touch display that provides in-store customers an enhanced shopping experience and contactless checkout. MySize says Orgad, its online retail platform, has expertise in e-commerce, supply chain and technology, operating as a third-party seller on Amazon.com Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN), eBay Inc. (NASDAQ: EBAY) and other sites. To expand its portfolio and offerings, MySize announced on Oct. 12 that it acquired Spain-based Naiz Fit, a software as a service (SaaS) technology solutions provider that solves size and fit issues for fashion e-commerce companies. Naiz Fit’s SaaS Technology Naiz Fit’s SaaS technology acts as a digital tailor. It gathers more than 20 body measurements without asking customers to measure themselves by using its proprietary AI and computer vision capabilities to transform simple images into body measurements. For customers who do not want to use photos, Naiz Fit implements statistical modeling algorithms to determine the size and fit based on height, weight, age, gender and fit preference. MySize reports that Naiz Fit’s latest product — Smart Catalogue — will be launched following the acquisition. Smart Catalogue is designed to help retail products and design teams make the most informed decisions for their collections based on real-time customer data. With over 40 clients in Spain, Italy, Germany and France, Naiz Fit brings MySize a substantial customer base, including Desigual, Moschino, El Ganso, Philosophy, Alberta Ferretti, Silbon and Boglioli Milano. Financials Naiz Fit’s revenue and financial results will be fully integrated into MySize’s consolidated results for the fourth quarter of 2022, according to the company. As a result of the acquisition, Naiz Fit’s customers “will reap the benefits of a broader portfolio of products and solutions delivered by an unparalleled combined team of industry leaders with a deep understanding of the fashion e-commerce retail landscape,” the company said. Naiz Fit expects an estimated $400,000 in 2022 revenue, with substantial increases anticipated for 2023. MySize also anticipates its combined Naiz Fit and MySizeID sizing solution revenue to contribute an additional $1 million in revenues in 2023. “Combining the MySizeID and Naiz Fit sizing solutions, we expect to gain significant economies in sales and marketing and to deliver unparalleled sizing technology to fashion retailers,” MySize Founder and CEO Ronen Luzon said. “We believe the acquisition will be highly accretive in the near and long term as well as being a strategic play. By leading the consolidation of sizing solutions, MySize is positioning to build greater and broader offerings and become the leading technology provider in the industry.” The acquisition of Naiz Fit could position MySize as a leading company in measurement solution technologies for retail, helping the company boost revenue and grow its customer base. MySize, Inc. (NASDAQ: MYSZ) (TASE: MYSZ.TA) is an omnichannel e-commerce platform and provider of AI-driven measurement solutions to drive revenue growth and reduce costs for its business clients. Orgad, its online retailer platform, has expertise in e-commerce, supply chain, and technology operating as a third-party seller on Amazon.com and other sites. MySize recently launched FirstLook Smart Mirror, a mirror-like touch display that provides in-store customers an enhanced shopping experience and contactless checkout. FirstLook Smart Mirror extends MySize's reach into physical stores and is expected to contribute to revenues through unit sales and recurring service fees.MySize has developed a unique measurement technology based on sophisticated algorithms and cutting-edge technology with broad applications, including the apparel, e-commerce, DIY, shipping, and parcel delivery industries. This proprietary measurement technology is driven by several algorithms that are able to calculate and record measurements in a variety of novel ways. To learn more about MySize, please visit our website: www.mysizeid.com. This post contains sponsored advertising content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Or Kles, CFO ir@mysizeid.com Company Website https://mysizeid.com

November 03, 2022 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

THE INDO-AMERICAN ARTS COUNCIL ANNOUNCES ANNUAL WEEKLONG LITERARY FESTIVAL

IAAC

- In Its 8th Year, the IAAC Literary Festival offers an intimate interaction with the leading minds and works of authors and poets writing about the Indian experience - The Indo-American Arts Council ( IAAC ), the organization dedicated to celebrating and showcasing the arts in North America, announced today the lineup for its eighth annual Literary Festival on November 7-13, 2022, in New York. Notable speakers, making in-person appearances at the Caelum Gallery (526 W 26th St.) in NY’s renowned Chelsea neighborhood, include Padma Shri, Barkha Dutt, Priya Kumari and Raza Mir. In continuation of its honored tradition, IAAC will also host a live Poetry Panel headlining Arundhathi Subramaniam and moderated by poetry curator, Dr. Ravi Shankar. Prior to the in-person weekend events, there will be a series of virtual events hosted on Facebook and YouTube each evening starting November 7-11 at 6:30 p.m. ET, which will feature ten writers including Nobel Peace Prize winner Kailash Satyarthi; London-based restaurateur and Netflix’s “Chef’s Table” star, Asma Khan with Michelin Chef Vikas Khanna - author of the world’s first “phygital” (physical and digital) cookbook; plus, actress, dancer and choreographer, Rukmini Vijayakumar. This series also includes a dedicated Children’s Literary Panel on Tuesday, November 8, 2022 which will showcase readings of “When Blackbirds Fly” by Hannah Lalhlanpuii and “Jamlo Walks” by Samina Mishra. "IAAC's Literary Festival showcases writers who bring stories of the Indian experience and ethos to the world. Even as they set new standards of literary excellence, they excite our imagination and shape humanity's future through their thought leadership. The festival attendees will become part of extraordinary conversations. Supporting the festival will be a stellar group of moderators who themselves are literary luminaries. As always there will be a focus on first time regional translations, children's literature and poetry," said Rakesh Kaul, Vice Chairman, IAAC. IAAC’s literary festival will be an intense two-day immersive experience featuring thought-provoking conversations, readings and discussions of stories told by courageous authors. Each authors' skill and expertise cover a wide range of civilizational and cultural topics including archeology, design, dance, history, compassion, wonder and the culinary arts. A panel of four poets will showcase powerful word-play that will make imaginations soar and speak directly to hearts, young and old. Refreshments, breakfast and lunch will be served, wine and cheese will accompany the poetry session. The festival wraps on a high note with the Annual Gala on November 13th. “At IAAC, we pride ourselves on our ability to seek out and find foundational storytellers who are not only noteworthy for their skill with language but whose seminal works also weave remarkable narratives that shape the world around them. This year is no exception; I have had the privilege to work with a dedicated team of literature lovers whose hard work and energy made this festival possible,” said Preethi Urs, Literary Festival Director, IAAC. A full list of writers and featured works below. For the full schedule with dates, times and moderators, please visit IAAC.us. Virtual Events (November 7-11): Kailash Satyarthi's greater body of work Ammu: Indian Home Cooking to Nourish your Soul (Interlink Books, May 2022) by Asma Khan Sacred Foods of India in NFT format (Akshaya, June 2022) by Vikas Khanna His Holiness the Dalai Lama in 100 Anecdotes (India Penguin, December 2022) by Arthy Muthanna Singh and Mamta Nainy The Dalai Lama: Leadership and the Power of Compassion (Interlink Books, November 2022) by Ginger Chih which includes a forward by His Holiness the Fourteenth Dalai Lama Finding Shiva: An Inner Journey of the Performative Experience (INDIC, 2021) by Rukmini Vijayakumar Virtual Children’s Panel: When Blackbirds Fly (Duckbill, February 2022) by Hannah Lalhlanpuii Jamlo Walks (India Puffin, September 2021) by Samina Mishra Somnath Hore: Wounds (Art1st, August 2021) conceptualized by Ritu Khoda, written by Likla Lall and featuring illustrator, Kripa (additionally, featuring in-person on November 13) In-Person Events (November 12-13): The Way of the Goddess: Daily Rituals to Awaken Your Inner Warrior and Discover Your True Self (TarcherPerigee, September 2022) by Ananta Ripa Ajmera Tata's Leadership Experiment: The Story of the Tata Administrative Service (HarperBusiness, August 2022) by Bharat Wakhlu, Mukund Rajan, Sonu Bhasin TO HELL AND BACK: Humans of COVID (Juggernaut, February 2022) by Barkha Dutt The Greatest Telugu Stories Ever Told (Rupa, March 2022) translated by Tamraparni Dasu and Dasu Krishnamoorty A Country Called Childhood: A Memoir (Aleph Book Company, July 2022) by Deepti Naval [Block] Chain Reaction - The Future of How We Live and Work (Soul Excellence Publishing, January 2022) by Elizebeth Varghese Tomb of Sand: A Novel by Geetanjali Shree (Tilted Axis Press, August 2021), translated by Daisy Rockwell Shehnai Virtuoso and Other Stories by Dhumketu (Deep Vellum Publishing, July 2022) translated by Jenny Bhatt Rajaraja Chola: King of Kings (Aleph Book Company, November 2022) by Kamini Dandapani Dava Shastri's Last Day (Grand Central Publishing, November 2021) by Kirthana Ramisetti A Matter of Trust (HarperCollins India, July 2021) by Meenakshi Ahamed The View from the Very Best House in Town (Walker Books US, February 2022) by Meera Trehan The Soul Catcher (Bodes Well Publishing, September 2021) by Monica Bhide Mirror Made of Rain (The Unnamed Press, May 2022) by Naheed Phiroze Patel The Candid Life of Meena Dave (Lake Union Publishing, June 2022) by Namrata Patel People of the Indus (India Penguin, November 2022) by Nikhil Gulati Leaf Talks Peace - Buddha's Message of Harmony (Eternal Tree Books, May 2022) by Priya Kumari Talent: The Market Cap Multiplier (Ideapress Publishing, January 2022) by Ram Charan and Anish Batlaw Murder at the Mushaira: A Novel (Rupa Publications India, January 2021) by Raza Mir Smashing the Patriarchy: A Guide for the 21st-Century Indian Woman (Rupa, November, 2021) by Sindhu Rajasekaran KALA - Essays on Contemporary Design Aesthetics (Times Group Books, 2020) edited by Padma Shri Sunita Kohli Somnath Hore: Wounds (Art1st, August 2021) conceptualized by Ritu Khoda, written by Likla Lall and featuring illustrator, Kripa Notable International Poets: Love Without a Story (Westland, April 2019) by Arundhathi Subramaniam My Body Lives Like a Threat (Flowersong Press, January 2022) by Megha Sood Time Regime (Gaudy Boy, March 2022) by Jhani Randhawa Singing in the Dark (Vintage Books, October 2020) edited by Nishi Chawla and K Satchidanandan Attendance Details: For a complete calendar of events between on November 7-13, 2022, visit https://iaac.us/iaac-literary-festival-2022/ RSVP for both in-person and online events at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/iaac-literary-festival-2022-tickets-446199724387 Social Media for IAAC: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iaac.us YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7XldGWApKYy-IvQPapxFJg Twitter: https://twitter.com/IAArtsCouncil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iaacny Hashtag: #IAACLitFest For a full press kit including photos and posters: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1DtbCXBSbA25yTQmf7vfMEWcdWFOGszA-?usp=sharing For IAAC Suman Gollamudi, Executive Director, Indo-American Arts Council suman.gn@iaac.us About Indo-American Arts Council (IAAC): The IAAC supports all the artistic disciplines in classical, fusion, folk and innovative forms influenced by the arts of India. We work cooperatively with colleagues around the U.S. to broaden our collective audiences and to create a network for shared information, resources and funding. Our focus is to help artists and art organizations in North America as well as to facilitate artists from India to exhibit, perform and produce their work here. The IAAC is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. All donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowable by law. For information, please visit www.iaac.us. For a full press kit including photos and posters: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1DtbCXBSbA25yTQmf7vfMEWcdWFOGszA-?usp=sharing Contact Details Indo-American Arts Council Suman Gollamudi, Executive Director suman.gn@iaac.us

November 02, 2022 04:57 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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How Much Should I Spend on an Engagement Ring?

Benzinga

Buying an engagement ring signifies a lifelong emotional investment in your future with your partner. An engagement ring purchase is also a significant financial investment. According to a 2021 BriteCo™ survey, 38% of respondents said that buying their engagement ring was the biggest purchase outside of buying a home or vehicle. Making such a significant financial decision requires considering how much to spend on an engagement ring. Find out how much you should spend on this sentimental piece of jewelry by exploring the average engagement ring cost and how to budget for a ring you and your partner love. What’s the Average Cost of an Engagement Ring in 2022? Engagement ring shopping can be stressful and confusing, so to help you determine how much an engagement ring should cost, it’s helpful to know the average price of an engagement ring to use as a baseline. The average engagement ring price in 2021 was approximately $7,011, an increase of 6.1% over 2020. Respondents of the BriteCo™ survey reported a slightly lower median price of $3,250, with 61% spending between $2,500 and $10,000 or more. BriteCo research showed the average spend on earth-mined diamonds increasing 11.9%, from $7,197 to $8,053 in 2021. The average spend for engagement rings with lab-grown diamonds, by comparison, was $4,383, up 8.6% over 2020 prices. BriteCo data also showed that lab-grown diamonds increased their market penetration in the past year from 18.7% of engagement ring sales in 2020 to 28.4% of sales in 2021. The average cost of an engagement ring also varies based on the buyer’s location. In the Mid-Atlantic region, including New York, rings cost an average of $9,343. States in the Pacific region, including California, saw an average spend of $8,626, and people in the central parts of the U.S. spend about $5,530 on average. Deciding on Your Engagement Ring Budget Deciding how much you should spend on an engagement ring involves understanding your budget for the purchase. Your income level, ring preferences and ring-related expenses like jewelry insurance all factor into how much you can and want to spend on your partner’s engagement ring. You can also use an engagement ring calculator tool to find out how much it will really cost to buy a stunning ring for your partner. What Can You Afford? The No. 1 consideration for buying an engagement ring is how much you can afford. In the past, many people determined how much to spend on an engagement ring based on salary. A 1930s De Beers Group marketing campaign suggested that a man had to spend at least three months’ salary on a diamond engagement ring or wedding ring to prove his devotion. While this rule may have worked in past decades, many modern ring buyers choose to spend much more conservatively. Most buyers forgo the salary-based budgeting method altogether. But if you are wondering, “How much should an engagement ring cost according to salary?” CNBC recommends only 5% of your income go toward the purchase. If you make close to the median household income of $70,784, that would mean a reasonable ring budget of about $3,539. What Materials Do You Prefer? Ring materials such as metals and diamonds affect the amount you’ll spend on your engagement ring. When deciding how much to spend, you’ll need to consider what ring materials you and your partner prefer, how much they cost and how to choose an option that matches your aesthetic desires with a price you can afford. Metals In general, platinum and palladium rings are the most expensive metals, with gold, including yellow, rose and white, coming in second. Cobalt and tantalum are less costly metals, and stainless steel and titanium rings are the most affordable, which can help cut engagement ring costs and save money. Diamond The most crucial consideration in most engagement rings is the diamond — the most expensive element. Diamonds are typically priced according to the 4Cs: cut, clarity, color and carat. Cut refers to the way a jeweler cuts a diamond to reflect light. More intricate cuts, rated 10 on the American Gem Society (AGS) scale, will be more expensive than lower-rated cuts. Diamonds with better clarity ratings or unique colorings may cost more than those with lower ratings. For example, a vivid yellow diamond ring may cost upward of $16,000 per carat, while a regular white diamond might sell for $1,000 per carat. Generally, the more a diamond weighs in carats, the more it will cost. Diamond prices typically move between weight groupings. For example, a diamond weighing between 0.01 to 0.90 carats will cost the same, but the price jumps for diamonds weighing between 0.98 to 1.5 carats. Where Will You Buy Your Engagement Ring? Where you buy your engagement will factor into how much you plan to spend. A ring from a high-end jeweler like Harry Winston Inc. or Tiffany & Co. may cost tens of thousands more than one from a brand-name retail store or local jeweler. Additionally, buying in-store versus online may offer different pricing options for engagement rings. The BriteCo™ survey showed that 81% of ring buyers prefer in-person sales, with 9% opting for online-only retailers and 11% purchasing from a known jeweler’s website. Because of distribution costs, an engagement ring online may be 30% to 40% cheaper, but buying from a trusted brand or local jeweler offers more security. Should You Insure Your Engagement Ring Purchase? Your insurance premiums should also factor into your budget for an engagement ring. High-value pieces require higher monthly premiums. But compared to other types of insurance, getting specialty jewelry coverage is very affordable, ranging from 0.5% to 1.5% of your ring’s appraised value. Many people believe that their homeowners or renters insurance will fully cover their engagement ring if something happens to it. But the average coverage provided by homeowners or renters insurance for fine jewelry is approximately $1,500. This falls significantly short of the average cost of an engagement ring, leaving you with substantial out-of-pocket costs if your ring is damaged, lost or stolen. Dedicated or specialty jewelry insurance ensures that you are covered for the full replacement cost of the piece. Look for a policy with no deductible that also covers preventative maintenance and repairs. It’s easy to get affordable engagement ring insurance online. Before applying for jewelry insurance, you must have your engagement ring appraised. You can get an appraisal online, at the jewelry store where you purchased the ring or through a professional certified appraiser. You will pay a small fee for the appraisal, typically between $50 and $150. Buy a Ring Your Partner Will Love Your engagement ring represents your commitment and connection to your partner. So, while there are archaic ideas about how much you should spend on an engagement ring, the ideal ring price ultimately depends on your budget and your partner’s style preferences. Regardless of how much you spend on a ring, ensure that you get comprehensive jewelry insurance to protect your investment. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

November 02, 2022 01:03 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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