Modenese coachbuilder ARES reveals limited-edition ARES Defender V8 Hardtop

World-renowned luxury Italian coachbuilder ARES Modena has released details of its bespoke Defender V8 Hardtop. Combining robust yet beguilingly elegant design, exquisite levels of hand-crafted luxury, state-of-the-art technology, and phenomenal performance, it represents a modern-day tribute to the timeless off-road icon and a compelling acquisition for any collector or aficionado. The ARES Defender V8 Hardtop follows on from the company’s acclaimed Defender Ultra V8, which was unveiled in 2018. The new model is designed by the company’s Centro Stile in Modena and assembled in the ARES smart factory using a combination of contemporary OEM-level technology and traditional handcraft skills. These include CAD, carbon fiber ovens, electrical system engineering specialists, drivetrain assembly, paint shop, artisan leather works and metal coachbuilding facilities. No detail is spared in the painstaking creation of the ultimate Defender. With a design heritage that can trace its routes all the way back to the first Land Rover Series 1 of 1948, the Defender's taut, square lines are treated with due reference by the ARES design team. A series of subtle enhancements bring additional layers of modernity and sophistication. Devoid of all visible body bolts, the ARES Defender’s elegant lines are further enhanced by larger rear tinted windows, while a premium-grade panoramic sunroof floods the cabin with sunlight. Based on a Land Rover Defender chassis and featuring a suspension lift kit, the ARES Defender V8 Hardtop rides 35mm higher than the standard model on striking 18-inch ARES Design alloy wheels wrapped in Cooper Discoverer tires. Wider wheel arches, an ARES Design carbon fiber bonnet, a new single-piece carbon fiber front end featuring powerful LED headlamps nestling in a contemporary-themed grille and new rear circular LED taillights amplify the Defender’s purposeful styling. Inside, the ARES designers and artisans have transformed the Defender’s utilitarian cabin into a sumptuous environment that cocoons its occupants in the lap of luxury. Only the very finest leather, carbon fiber, wood and aluminum trim are used throughout the cabin. They combine to create an aura of assured quality and unsurpassed comfort, which fully extends to every part of the cabin, including the bench seats in the luggage compartment. The Defender’s in-cabin technology has undergone a similar metamorphose. The vehicle is replete with all-round electric windows, a six-speaker state-of-the-art infotainment system with subwoofer, featuring satellite navigation and Apple Car Play & Android Auto Bluetooth connectivity. A bespoke instrument panel and a beautiful hand-stitched leather steering wheel place the driver at the heart of the action, within easy reach of the upgraded and modernized switchgear and controls. A press of the starter button summons a new 5328cc V8 engine – which replaces the outgoing 4-cylinder turbodiesel – to life. Integrated as part of an extensive engineering program undertaken by ARES, the V8 engine dispatches its 355hp and mammoth 519Nm of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission. To ensure a superlative driving experience, the ARES engineers have further bolstered the transmission system, axle shafts and CV joints to accommodate the significantly enhanced performance of the ARES Defender V8 Hardtop. The braking system has been similarly upgraded and sports larger performance discs and 6-piston calipers. An advanced electronically adjustable ORAM suspension system offering sport and comfort modes, ensures a relaxing ride, engaging handling, and precision body control whatever the terrain. ARES will coach-build a limited series of ARES Defender V8 Hardtop models, each priced from €235,000 ex VAT. Orders can now be placed at aresdesign.com

Shaping sovereign and sustainable digitization - keynote from CONTACT Software at the prostep ivip Symposium 2022

The anniversary edition of the convention will be held under the motto “Innovations for Systems Creation”. CONTACT is premium partner together with Mitsubishi Electric and shows how companies can benefit from end-to-end industry 4.0 applications by linking PLM and IoT. On June 8 and 9, the prostep ivip Association presents the 25th edition of the prostep ivip Symposium. About 700 attendees are expected at the International Congress Center (ICS) in Stuttgart, Germany. For the first time in two years, one of the most important PLM congresses will be held as a live event on site. In addition to a comprehensive lineup of presentations, keynotes, and workshops, the accompanying exhibition creates room for networking and personal exchange. Together with Mitsubishi Electric, CONTACT Software is premium partner of this year’s Symposium. The prostep ivip Symposium will kick off with a keynote from CONTACT CEO Karl Heinz Zachries. Under the title “How to shape a sustainable future with PLM & IoT”, he highlights how companies can increase their innovative capabilities in the face of increasing market dynamics and digitization requirements to continue to act sovereignly in the future. “Profound ecological and social changes have massively increased the transformation pressure on the global industry,” explains Zachries. “Companies need new competencies and capabilities to drive their digital transformation in a future-proof manner. In this context, the combination of PLM and IoT know-how with advanced platform technologies offers an ideal foundation for resilient and sustainable business models.” Two presentations from international companies provide exclusive insights into the practical implementation of CONTACT’s solutions. In their presentation on “Lean naval PLM Roll-Out and common ship data model for collaboration”, the Norwegian shipbuilding company Ulstein Design & Solutions AS shares how the switch to CIM Database PLM has simplified digital collaboration and naval systems engineering. The presentation covers the project setup, roll-out, and the capabilities of CONTACT’s PLM system. Marel is the world’s leading provider of full-line solutions, software, and services for the food processing industry. Their presentation “Data Governance in Digital Product Highways” revolves around innovative solutions for master data management, particularly with regard to deduplication, multi-BOM management, and product configuration. The Icelandic company has implemented a Digital Product Highway based on CONTACT Elements. It joins master data, sales information, and prices and makes them available to other IT systems via an enterprise service bus (ESB). At their joint exhibition booth 23-25, Mitsubishi Electric and CONTACT Software demonstrate under the motto “The door opener for digital transformation” that interoperability and openness simplify data exchange from the shopfloor level into the enterprise IT as well as across company boundaries. Visitors learn how the entire product lifecycle – from development and simulation to manufacturing and operation – can be represented in a cloud-based process chain. In addition, the implementation of a closed-loop process by linking the PLM system with the IoT is illustrated. This allows companies to optimize the next generation of their products and services in a more targeted way and increase their competitiveness.

GPCA Board names Dr. Karim El Solh as new board member, along with Otavio Castello Branco. Drew Guff appointed Chair of the Board of Directors

The Global Private Capital Association (GPCA) today announced the appointment of Drew Guff, Managing Director and Founding Partner of Siguler Guff & Company, as Chair of the Board of Directors, along with new Board members Otavio Castello Branco, Senior Managing Partner and Board Member of Patria Investments, and Dr. Karim El Solh, Co-Founder and CEO of Gulf Capital. The GPCA Board also appointed Nicolas Rohatyn, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of The Rohatyn Group (TRG), as Chair Emeritus. GPCA members are leading investors across Asia, Latin America, Africa, CEE and the Middle East, who collectively manage more than USD2 trillion in assets. The organization’s proprietary data and market intelligence highlights forward-looking trends in global investments such as digitalization and energy transition, as well as the societal impact of those investments. “I am excited to have the leadership of Drew, Otavio and Karim on our Board as private capital investment hits record highs across Asia, Latin America, Africa, CEE and the Middle East,” remarked Cate Ambrose, CEO and Board Member of GPCA. “Drew was a founding member of the organization and brings extraordinary experience to the Chair role as a pioneer investor in many of the markets we represent. Patria has an impressive track record in private equity and real assets in Latin America, while Gulf Capital is supporting innovative businesses across the Middle East and Asia.” “I am honored to serve as GPCA’s Board Chair and collaborate alongside the organization’s distinguished Board of Directors who head many of the most successful global private capital firms in the world,” commented Mr. Guff. “It’s an important and exciting time for the organization and its members as investment opportunities in Asia, Latin America, Africa, CEE and the Middle East continue to soar.” Mr. Guff will carry forward the important work that began two years ago with the organization’s strategic repositioning and rebrand under the leadership of Nick Rohatyn, who will continue to serve the Board in an advisory role as Chair Emeritus.

• 

  The 2022 “Visit Korean Heritage Campaign” ready to get rolling!

  The 2022 “Visit Korean Heritage Campaign” (the “Campaign”), a joint project between the Cultural Heritage Administration (Administrator: Choi Eung-chon) and the Korea Cultural Heritage Foundation (President: Choi Young-chang), is hosting a press conference at the Yeongbingwan Hall (Blue House) on June 14 to announce that the Campaign is ready to open its gates and welcome guests to its programs. Launched back in 2020, the Campaign is in its third year, and despite the fact that it is a relatively new initiative, the Campaign has established itself as a valuable brand, which allows audiences both in Korea and abroad rediscover the value of Korean culture and heritage that helped shape the Hallyu wave spreading across the globe today. This year’s Campaign will feature ten unique themes and 75 different destinations centered on World Heritages and Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity in Korea, and also a wide variety of related content. Despite the limitations due to COVID-19 over the past two years, the Campaign has continued to make some remarkable achievements in promoting Korea’s culture, heritage, and the Hallyu movement to people all over the world, including overseas advertisements using large billboards in major cities around the world such as New York and London, participating in the Dubai Expo, and producing 677 pieces of online content, etc. This year, with people given the freedom to travel somewhat normally for the first time since the pandemic began, the Campaign has returned with a much more powerful arsenal of programs visitors can physically visit and experience. In particular, now that the Cheongwadae (Blue House) is open for public access, the ‘Royalty Route,’ which had been headlined by the Gyeongbokgung Palace in past years, includes Cheongwaedae (the grounds of Cheongwaedae constitutes the north-side garden of Gyeongbokgung Palace) in its program. Also, this year, the Campaign has appointed its first-ever celebrity ambassador: actor Kim Min-ha. ■ New places, new faces add to the “Visit Korean Heritage Campaign” experience This year’s Campaign will use Cheongwadae, which has been returned to the public just recently, as a major base of operations, starting with the official press conference for the Campaign. First, Cheongwadae will host “Korea On Stage” to commemorate the National Liberation Day of Korea this August. With Cheongwaedae as its backdrop, “Korea On Stage” plans to introduce audiences across the globe to the beauty of Korean cultural heritage with spectacular performances by artists representing a wide variety of genres, including Gukak (Korean traditional music) and K-pop. Then, in October, an exhibition at Cheongwadae will incorporate media art content introducing the history of Cheongwadae, which is part of this year’s “Royalty Route” program, and give people a new and unique experience. Meanwhile, actor Kim Min-ha, who emerged as a worldwide phenomenon with her role in the TV series hit “Pachinko,” will serve as the official celebrity ambassador for the 2022 Visit Korean Heritage Campaign with video projects promoting the Campaign. As the celebrity ambassador for the Campaign, Kim Min-ha visited Haeinsa Temple in Hapcheon as part of her trip through the “Mountain Temple Route” to reflect on the legacy of our ancestors through the Tripitaka Koreana. Her trip to Haeinsa Temple will be included in the “2022 Visit Korean Heritage Campaign Brand Video” (release expected in the second half of the year), which is expected to be aired on one of the massive billboards in Times Square, New York. ■ Virtual Humans and Metaverse - Infinite potential and possibilities for cultural heritage through new collaboration The “contactless” (virtual) content produced by the “Visit Korean Heritage Campaign” this year has also been refreshed with new faces. The cultural heritage visiting program on ZEPETO, a metaverse platform first launched last year, adds new blood thanks to some innovative collaboration with three virtual human siblings, and “Korea In Fashion,” a popular program for the Campaign, is coming back with a new designer as well. Furthermore, the Campaign is looking forward to working with a much larger pool of local governments and businesses to offer new attractions. First, on June 24, ZEPETO will kick off with the “Visit Korean Heritage Campaign x Find the Three Virtual Siblings Ho, Gon, and Haeil!” event. These three virtual siblings, Ho (昊), Gon (坤), and Haeil (海日), which have been created to reflect the appearances of the Millennials and Gen Z’s, have 10,000 followers on Instagram. Late last year, the “Cultural Heritage Visiting Campaign” introduced the “Jeju Mythic Landscape Route” and “Visit Korean Heritage Campaign PR Center,” attracting roughly 190,000 visitors (as of the end of December 2021). This year, the Campaign is hoping to carry on the momentum from last year and earn a positive response from the younger generation working with Ho, Gon, and Haeil. Then, in November, ZEPETO plans to unveil “Namwon Gwanghalluwon,” a new attraction for the Campaign, and introduce up to 300 million metaverse platform users all over the world to Korean culture and heritage. On June 27, the “Journey for the Best Selfie Ever” video featuring Ho, Gon, and Haeil will be released by ZEPETO as well. In this video, Ho, Gon, and Haeil visit the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress on their journey along the “Royalty Route,” Gangneung Seongyojang on the “Kwandong Korean Elegance Route,” Andong Hahoe Village on the “Golden Era Route,” and Andong Byeongsan Seowon Confucian Academy on the “Korean Confucian Academy Route” to give people a glimpse of what to expect on their own journeys to enjoy Korea's culture and heritage. The video will also be aired on a billboard at Times Square in New York on the same day. Meanwhile, “Korea In Fashion,” which had gathered a massive following while working with designer Tchai Kim for the past two years, is collaborating with designer Kim Ri-eul of the brand “Rieul” for this year’s Campaign. “Korea In Fashion” recorded 650,000 views on YouTube and 700,000 clicks with its photos, effectively suggesting Hanbok as a fashion choice among younger generations. This year, it plans to showcase some new and intriguing aspects of Hanbok once again with designer Kim Ri-eul, who is known for his suits made with Hanbok fabric worn by BTS and Zico. A video of Korean-themed outfits filmed in and around the “Baekje Historic Area” will be released through an outdoor advertisement in Tokyo, Japan, this October. Also, pop artist Hong Won-pyo, renowned for his characters in “Barabapa,” is joining the “Visit Korean Heritage Campaign” this year. This year’s Campaign will feature his characters, depicting key attractions across each of the Campaign’s programs in a cute and lovely way, in some of its special offers. Furthermore, in the second half of the year, the Campaign is looking to launch a limited-edition beverage - “Visit Korean Heritage Campaign X Haneul Bori” - developed in collaboration with Woongjin Foods, new content developed with CJ ENM’s K-POP channel “Studio Choom,” and an event linked to World Heritage Festival with S-Oil. ■ Dawn of the post-COVID-19 era! 2022 is the year we can all actually visit our cultural heritage sites! The “Visit Korean Heritage Campaign” has been monitering previous events every year for improvement. This year, to physically bring more visitors to its attractions for the first time since the COVID-19 outbreak, the Campaign is looking to host a variety of events showcasing unique and fascinating stories behind our culture and heritage. This year, the Campaign is debuting its new “traveler passport” and “traveler kit” that includes film cameras and picnic mats they may need along their trips to various culture and heritage sites. In September, the Campaign will launch a collaborative product (Haneul Bori beverage) with Woongjin Foods, and a joint event featuring Korail Tourism Development’s seaside trains along the “Gwandong Korean Elegance Route.” Then, in October, the Campaign will launch a program focusing on Korean royal confectionery (Kohojae) and Korean traditional culture in Tokyo, Japan, specifically designed to attract Japanese tourists with help from the Korean Cultural Center in Japan. * Kohojae (高好齋): “Home for those who like old things,” the premium Korean royal confectionery brand owned by the Korea House Meanwhile, the Incheon International Airport is reopening its PR Center for the “Visit Korean Heritage Campaign.” The PR Center, which opened for three months last year (August-October), is coming back with improved content to welcome domestic and foreign travelers with an immersive video exhibition featuring the “10 Traveler Itineraries” in digital format and other facilities to enhance the immersive experience. With AR/VR and interactive content incorporating immersive technology at the Incheon International Airport Passenger Terminal 1, the Campaign hopes to deliver creative and new ways to interpret Korean culture and heritage, and give visitors a good preview of Korean cultural heritage with advanced and sophisticated visuals. The Campaign will also continue its work to share its content of the local festivals. The “World Heritage Festival” will be held in Andong, Yeongju (both in Gyeongsangbuk-do), Suwon Special Metropolitan City, and the Jeju Special Self-Governing Province from September to October with a wide variety of programs, including concerts, historic reenactments, exhibitions, and experiences centered on UNESCO World Heritage sites in Korea. “World Heritage Media Art”, which combines state-of-the-art digital and IT technology with Korean cultural heritage, is a collection of eight productions featuring the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, Buyeo Busosanseong Fortress, Gongju Gongsanseong Fortress, Iksan Mireuksa Temple Site, Gochang Dolmen Site, Yangsan Tongdosa Temple, Hamyang Namgye Seowon Confucian Academy, Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes. The “World Heritage Festival” will unveil these programs produced by each municipal government in the second half of 2022. The Cultural Heritage Administration and the Korea Cultural Heritage Foundation will work hand in hand to give more people a chance to enjoy Korea’s cultural heritage to promote the value of Korea's cultural heritage to people all over the world. More details on the “Visit Korean Heritage Campaign” are available on the Campaign’s official website(https://chf.or.kr/visit), YouTube channel (@koreanheritage), and Instagram account (@visitkoreanheritage).

• 

  Slash To Appear On ‘Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend’ Monday, Feb. 21

  As SLASH FT MYLES KENNEDY AND THE CONSPIRATORS ready the release of their fourth album titled 4 next week (out Friday, February 11), SLASH will join comedian, talk show host Conan O’Brien on his podcast “Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend” Monday, February 21, listen to the show HERE. SLASH FT. MYLES KENNEDY & THE CONSPIRATORS will launch their U.S. headlining tour this Tuesday, Feb. 8 and will visit 28 major cities; all tickets and dates: HERE. The new album 4 is available for pre order HERE. Read the Q&A as SLASH and lead singer MYLES KENNEDY breakdown the entire new album 4 in its entirety (media may post), HERE. This week, SLASH FT. MYLES KENNEDY & THE CONSPIRATORS stopped by Jimmy Kimmel Live! for a late-night performance and interview. SLASH sat down with host Jimmy Kimmel for a hilarious interview on the show. Watch and share the interview with SLASH and Jimmy Kimmel Watch and share the band’s performance of “The River Is Rising” on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Above (L-R): Frank Sidoris, Brent Fitz, Jimmy Kimmel, Slash, Myles Kennedy and Brent Fitz. Photo credit: ABC/Randy Holmes. “The River Is Rising” which Rolling Stone described as “raucous” (2/3/2022) is now the band’s 8th Top 10 Radio single in a row and climbs to #7 this week. Check out the official video for “The River Is Rising” and stream the new songs “Call Off The Dogs” and “Fill My World”. Early acclaim is starting to come in for the new album 4 with Guitar World hailing it as “an abundance of crunchy classic-rock inspired riffs behind Myles Kennedy's anthemic vocals.” Elsewhere, Metal Hammer praised, “Slash's fourth album feat. Myles Kennedy And The Conspirators hits all the right beats to be a modern rock classic,” and Classic Rock added, “All rich, roomy tones captured live in Nashville’s RCA Studios…Everything on 4 is deeper, looser and grittier.” A decade and four albums into their career, the new full-length album 4 marks the first new music from the group in four years. SLASH and his bandmates MYLES KENNEDY (Vocals), BRENT FITZ (Drums), TODD KERNS (Bass & Vocals) and FRANK SIDORIS (Guitar & Vocals) aka SMKC, partnered with producer Dave Cobb (Chris Stapleton, John Prine, Jason Isbell, Rival Sons), for their fourth album together resulting in the band’s strongest collective statement to date following Living The Dream (2018), World on Fire (2016), and Apocalyptic Love (2012). Recorded at RCA Studio A in Nashville, TN, Cobb shared the band’s desire to lay down the tracks live in the studio--including guitar solos and vocals--a first for the group, revealing a stunning, vital sound and style all captured live. Watch the “Making of 4” Episodes 1 and Episode 2. A vibrant rock album fueled by memorable guitar hooks and compelling melodies, big choruses, and even bigger riffs, 4--is due out February 11 via Gibson Records (in partnership with BMG). In light of the 30-year alliance between Gibson and the GRAMMY Award-winning, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee SLASH, the new album 4, has the added distinction of being the first-ever album release on Gibson Records, the new label, which is headquartered in the iconic American instrument brand’s hometown of Music City, Nashville, TN. On February 11, Gibson will unveil 250 SLASH Les Paul Standard 4 Album Edition guitars—available on Gibson.com and at authorized dealers--in a first-ever package which also includes the new SMKC album 4 on vinyl, a 4 guitar pick tin and decal, and a signed SMKC band portrait. View the current line of all exclusive album packages available for 4, https://slash.tmstor.es/products/menu/Music On Friday, February 11, tune-in to watch the global premiere of the SLASH FT. MYLES KENNEDY & THE CONSPIRATORS concert “Live at Studios 60” where SLASH and the band will perform the new album 4 in its entirety, streaming live and free on the SLASH YouTube and Facebook at: 11am PACIFIC / 2pm EASTERN / 7pm GMT. The concert will be immediately followed by a Live Q&A afterparty with SLASH, exclusively on YouTube Premium; join the afterparty and live SLASH Q&A for free via YouTube Premium. Watch and share the trailer for SMKC “Live at Studios 60” concert streaming February 11, Catch SLASH FT. MYLES KENNEDY & THE CONSPIRATORS live on the road for their U.S. headlining tour which launches on February 8 in Portland, OR, and will hit 28 major cities nationwide, including Los Angeles, New York, Boston, Philadelphia, Chicago, Denver, Nashville, Dallas, Austin, Houston, and more, as well as the newly announced Detroit, MI show on March 4 at The Fillmore. All tickets for the SMKC U.S. tour are available at: https://www.slashonline.com/tour see dates below. On Monday, February 21, SLASH will sit down with host Conan O’Brien on his award-winning podcast “Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend” to discuss his music history, the new SLASH FT. MYLES KENNEDY & THE CONSPIRATORS’ studio album 4, and more. Tune-in worldwide to “Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend” on Monday, February 21, https://teamcoco.com/podcasts/conan-obrien-needs-a-friend

• 

  Introducing the Mike Ness 1976 Les Paul Deluxe, Available Now

  Gibson--the iconic American instrument brand--is proud to partner with the producer, and musician Mike Ness, who for the last 44 years has served as the lead guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter for the legendary punk band and rock ‘n’ roll icons Social Distortion. Mike’s main guitar of choice is a modified 1976 Les Paul Deluxe Goldtop which was used to create the limited edition Mike Ness 1976 Les Paul Deluxe from Gibson Custom Shop. The Mike Ness 1976 Les Paul Deluxe is now available worldwide from authorized Gibson dealers, and on www.gibson.com. The Mike Ness 1976 Les Paul Deluxe comes equipped with a three-piece maple neck, a two piece plain maple top and a mahogany/maple/mahogany back. Mike replaced the humbuckers with his favorite P-90’s and the guitar features a lighter weight adding to its overall versatility. The stunning Goldtop finish has been expertly aged by the artisans of the Murphy Lab to match Mike’s original guitar. In addition, the “Orange County,” “Clay Smith Cams Mr. Horsepower®,” and “I Voted” stickers featured on Mike’s guitar are included. Watch and share the video as Mike Ness talks about his musical history in the episode of Gibson TV’s “My First Gibson” with Mike Ness: At the early age of four-years-old, Social Distortion frontman Mike Ness began listening to the radio and discovered The Beatles, CCR, The Supremes and The Rolling Stones. Growing up in the working class suburb of Fullerton, California, he was raised on blues, classic rock, and country, and his earliest influences were pioneers of rock and roll; musicians that were controversial and rebellious. Social Distortion survived their tumultuous youth to pioneer an undeniably honest and fiery brand of rock ‘n’ roll that would incorporate outlaw country, classic seventies punk and primal blues. Seven studio albums and countless electrifying live shows have earned the band a dedicated worldwide fanbase and catalog of timeless anthems including “Story Of My Life,” “Ball And Chain,” “Bad Luck,” “Machine Gun Blues,” and more. As he matured as a songwriter and musician, Ness’s solo recordings Cheating At Solitaire (1999), and Under The Influences (1999), incorporated the raw power and social relevance that has always marked his music, while embracing many of the defining styles in American rock and roll music. The Los Angeles Times described Ness as "one of the most underrated pure songwriters in rock." Mike continues to perform worldwide with Social Distortion. The band's latest release, Hard Times and Nursery Rhymes--produced for the first time, by Ness himself--debuted at #4 on the Billboard Top 200 and was the highest debut yet for the band. Hard Times and Nursery Rhymes was also #1 on the Independent Album chart, and #2 on the Modern Rock/Alternative Albums chart.

• 

  Calling All Sonic Sculptors, the Legendary Brand Maestro Emerges with Five Pedals for Endless Exploration

  By leveraging its iconic past and leaning into an innovative future, Gibson--the iconic American instrument brand--has set the stage for the next era of sound for present and future generations. When Gibson brought Maestro into the world 60 years ago, no one could have predicted its trailblazing success. Now, after decades, Gibson has revived the brand for 2022 with the debut of the Maestro Original Collection line of effects pedals with five new pedals--the Fuzz-Tone FZ-M, Invader Distortion, Ranger Overdrive, Comet Chorus, and Discoverer Delay--all designed, voiced, and styled for the musician looking to shape a unique sound. The Maestro Original Collection pays tribute in sound and style to the brand’s pioneering and much beloved classic models, while staying true to Maestro’s trailblazing spirit with modern features, expanded versatility, and advanced tone-tweaking capabilities. Maestro is available worldwide at authorized Gibson dealers; for more information visit: www.maestroelectronics.com. As the founder of effects, Maestro’s influence has shaped music as we know it from The Rolling Stones to the Raconteurs, Pete Townshend to George Harrison, Clapton to Frampton, and the Foo Fighters to the Black Keys, Maestro has been there from the beginning to help artists achieve the sound they heard in their heads and their hearts, their signature sound. “Maestro was the first commercially successful pedal, it changed everything, and set the entire world of pedals and effects into motion,” says Mat Koehler, Senior Director of Product Development, Gibson Brands. “We’re using the distinct Maestro aesthetic to develop unique takes on each of these effects in a way that’s fun and looks back at the past, but with an awareness of what modern guitarists require. Maestro sounds are relevant to new, casual, and professional level players and everyone at Gibson felt a responsibility and obligation to revive Maestro because it’s vital to pedal history.” “Restoring a legendary brand is a thrilling challenge. Maestro has a definitive heritage to honor, but what becomes almost more important is building the new legacy for this brand,” adds Sterling Doak, Director of Marketing, Gibson Brands. “Writing this next chapter for Maestro means creating energy and providing tools for our fans to shape their sound. Now players all over the world will create this new sonic legacy, and we encourage everyone to plug-in, dial-up your settings, and shape your sound.” Each Maestro pedal functions as an innovative “two-in-one” pedal, with a single toggle that switches between two distinct voicings. Each features a straightforward three knob set-up, true bypass switching, and a more ergonomic, pedalboard friendly wedge profile. The new Fuzz-Tone FZ-M is reminiscent of the instantly recognizable tones of the first-ever Maestro pedal, the much-mythologized FZ-1 which fuels Keith Richard’s groundbreaking riff on The Rolling Stones’ “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction.” But flip the toggle from “classic” to “modern,” and get a full frequency, grinding, contemporary fuzz beast at your fingertips. The Comet Chorus conjures a warm, classic analog chorus tone with a subtle cosmic swirl effect in “Earth” mode. Flip the toggle to “Orbit,” however, and your sound gets space-y with the addition of a rotary speaker-like vibrato and tremolo effect, tweakable via an internal trim pot. Other pedals rounding out the Maestro Original Collection include the Ranger Overdrive, Invader Distortion, and Discoverer Delay, each presenting an array of classic and modern sounds, all with unmatched Maestro vibe. All pedals in the Maestro Original Collection are $149 with the exception of Discoverer Delay at $159. Explore the new Maestro Original Collection below and for a deeper dive into the history of Maestro, visit: https://www.maestroelectronics.com/en-US/

• 

  [CES 2021] LG Emphasized "Needs to Innovate Beyond Boundaries Between Fields in the New Normal Era" Through Future Talk

• 

  [CES 2021] Sony Unveiled Its Latest Initiatives Surpassing “Limits of Creativity” at CES 2021

• 

  Hyperconnect, Key to social platform success: reflecting the ‘user voice’

• 

  Hyperconnect : real-time video AI monitoring system can now auto-block live video content within 0.006 seconds

• 

  North America Cardiac Monitoring Devices Markets Report 2021-2022 & 2028: Market Consolidations & Rise in Number of Product Launches and Approvals - R

  DUBLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The "North America Cardiac Monitoring Devices Market Forecast to 2028 - COVID-19 Impact and Regional Analysis - by Type; Product Type, Application and End User" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. Cardiovascular Devices Segment to Lead Cardiac Monitoring Devices Market During 2021-2028 The North America cardiac monitoring devices market is expected to reach US$ 16.43 billion by 2028 from US$ 10.52 billion in 2021. It is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 6.6% from 2021 to 2028. the market growth is attributed to an increase in the incidence of cardiovascular diseases, a surge in the geriatric population base, and a rise in the number of product launches and approvals. However, the risk of associated cybersecurity vulnerabilities and privacy issues hamper the market growth. A cardiac event monitor is used to record the heart's electrical activity (ECG). It keeps the track of the heartbeat and rhythm. These monitors are employed for the long-term monitoring of symptoms that don't occur every day. Important heart health data can be tracked, recorded, and sent to patients' doctors in real time using cardiac monitoring systems, allowing the care teams to monitor patients' heart health from a distance. This reduces the need for frequent visits to the doctor's office. In the last decade, the world has witnessed notable developments in cardiac monitoring devices, offering physicians and patients new approaches to manage many diseases, including atrial arrhythmias, ventricular arrhythmias, and ventricular atrial fibrillation. The growing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), such as coronary heart diseases, sudden cardiac arrest, congenital heart diseases, heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, and pulmonary artery pressure (PA), is encouraging the introduction of improved monitoring methods. The simplicity of use and the ability of a quick detection of CVDs are the factors adding to the popularity of cardiac monitoring devices. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), ~30 million people experience a stroke each year. Moreover, the American Heart Association states more than 130 million people in the US, i.e., 45.1% of the population, are projected to have a type of CVD by 2035. Type Insights Based on type, the North America cardiac monitoring devices market is segmented into cardiovascular devices, multi-parameter ECG monitors, patient monitoring devices, ambulatory cardiac monitoring, and cardiac monitors. In 2020, the cardiovascular devices segment held the largest share of the market. The market for the patient monitoring devices segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the period from 2021 to 2028. With a growing prevalence of chronic disorders such as stroke, coronary heart disease, sudden cardiac arrest, and congenital heart diseases, the demand for patient monitoring devices is increasing. Temperature monitoring, continuous glucose monitoring, and pulsed oximetry blood pressure monitoring are several applications of wearable patient monitoring, biosensors, and smart implants. Product Type Insights Based on product type, the North America cardiac monitoring devices market is segmented into portable monitor, smart wearable monitor, and standard monitor. In 2020, the standard monitor segment held the largest share of the market. Moreover, the market for the smart wearable monitor segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR during 2021-2028. The PMMA is a plastic with excellent mechanical properties and minimal toxicity. The growing trend encourages the usage of commercial smart wearable monitors for health management. In the era of remote and personalized patient care, especially catalyzed by the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a high demand for wearable technologies for a wide range of clinical applications. Application Insights Based on application, the North America cardiac monitoring devices market is segmented into coronary heart diseases, sudden cardiac arrest, stroke, arrhythmia, congenital heart diseases, heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, heart function (HF/LVEDP), pulmonary artery pressure (PA), and others. The coronary heart diseases segment held the largest market share in 2020, and it is further expected to be the largest shareholder in the market by 2028. The increased prevalence of diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol levels is contributing to the growing risk of cardiovascular disease and accelerating the cases of coronary heart diseases. End User Insights Based on end user, the North America cardiac monitoring devices market is segmented into hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs), and clinics. The hospitals segment held the largest market share in 2020, and it is further expected to be the largest shareholder in the market by 2028. Hospitals are the primary healthcare centers where cardiovascular diseases, including coronary heart diseases, stroke, sudden cardiac arrest, and arrhythmia, are extensively treated. Key Market Dynamics Market Drivers Increase in Incidence of Cardiovascular Diseases Surge in Geriatric Population Base Rise in Number of Product Launches and Approvals Market Restraints Risk of Associated Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities Market Opportunities Measures to Reduce Infections Caused due to Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices (CIED) Future Trends Market Consolidations Company Profiles Medtronic Abbott Boston Scientific Corporation Irhythm Technologies, Inc. GE Healthcare Biotronik, Inc. Schiller Healthcare India Pvt. Ltd Koninklijke Philips N.V. Microport Scientific Corporation Asahi Kasei Corporation Hill-Rom Holdings, Inc. Nihon Kohden Corporation Alivecor, Inc Shenzhen Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics Co. Ltd. Acs Diagnostics Btl Hemodynamics Company LLC Mortara Instruments Livanova plc Tz Medical Amiitalia Rhythmedix Medi-Lynx Cardiac Monitoring, LLC Infinium Medical Bionet America, Inc. For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/9z4twh Contacts ResearchAndMarkets.com Laura Wood, Senior Press Manager press@researchandmarkets.comFor E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900

• 

  TRON Founder Justin Sun Attends the Inaugural NFTBERLIN with His Twelve Digital Zodiac Heads Collection

  GENEVA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--On May 24, NFTBERLIN tweeted that Justin Sun, the founder of TRON, confirmed attendance at the first NFTBERLIN event virtually and participation in a panel discussion on the future trends of NFT. He will exhibit many of his valuable collections, including the Twelve Digital Zodiac Heads, which are to be presented to the public for the first time. NFTBERLIN is a community-led unconference and exhibition focusing on the innovative development of NFT. The inaugural event will be held in Berlin, Germany, from May 25 to May 27, where creators, collectors, artists, and other art enthusiasts worldwide will meet to discuss the trends and future of the NFTverse. The NFTBERLIN event consists of three sessions: an NFT art exhibition, symposium, and Hackathon. Themed on the NFT, the symposium will invite well-known artists, collectors, and platforms in the NFT space both home and abroad to interpret the history, present, and future of NFTs through speeches, dialogues, round table discussions, etc. The NFT art exhibition will be held in Alte Münze, Berlin, from May 25 to 26 and will feature works by renowned and emerging artists from around the world, including the Twelve Digital Zodiac Heads previously bought by Justin Sun at ¥9,832,500. This collection was created based on the traditional Chinese Zodiac signs and minted as NFTs with blockchain technology. It is the only set in existence. An art collector and an early NFT practitioner, Justin Sun was also invited to this NFTBERLIN event. Sun has acquired many works by world-renowned artists in the past two years, including the Twelve Digital Zodiac Heads, Beeple's Ocean Front, and Fewocious' My Mama's Dream, which will be featured in the NFTBERLIN art exhibition. He has also clinched Picasso's Femme Nue Couchée au Collier (Marie-Thérèse), Andy Warhol's Three Self Portraits, and Alberto Giacometti's The Nose, among other masterpieces, with a combined worth of over ¥1 billion. NFTBERLIN is Europe's largest offline NFT event initiated by DAOs to date. Aiming to bring together outstanding independent crypto artists to prove that "the whole is greater than the sum of its parts" and promote the development of crypto art further, the event has attracted many institutions and big names from the industry. Contacts Jessica ZHANG jessica.zhang01@tron.network

• 

  Play Ball! Amazon Donates Nearly One Million Dollars to Youth Sports Programs Across Massachusetts

  BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Amazon is going to bat for youth sports programs in Massachusetts. Today, the company announced it is donating nearly $1 million to youth sports teams and organizations across the Commonwealth. The grants will help expand access and level the playing field for sports and fitness opportunities in underserved neighborhoods and help organizations meet COVID-related budget shortfalls. “We care about the communities in which we operate and live. We’ve seen the power of youth sports to build character and make a positive impact on our children and our communities. That’s why Amazon is thrilled to be able to invest in the health and well-being of young people in Boston and beyond,” said Jerome Smith, Amazon’s Head of Community Engagement for New England. “The pandemic took so much from all of us, especially young people. We hope this donation will get young athletes back in the game.” The company made the announcement at the South End Baseball’s Opening Day Parade and festivities. Amazon is investing in eight communities across the Commonwealth. The resources from Amazon come as many local youth sports organizations throughout the nation are struggling to recover from the economic effects of the pandemic. Survey data from last year suggests the COVID-19 pandemic has taken a toll on youth sports participation. National research by the Aspen Institute found thirteen percent of youth sports parents said their community-based sports provider closed due to COVID-19, and another 12% noted it had merged with another organization. In total, 44% of families said their community-based program has either closed, merged or returned with limited capacity. “South End Baseball is incredibly grateful for the support being given to us from Amazon with this year’s and last year’s grants,” said Pete Shults, president of SEB’s board of directors and a longtime coach. “With the pandemic essentially shutting down our fundraising efforts over the last two years, the company’s generosity is making a world of difference in our ability to keep the league’s operations running and funding our Hugh Chambers/Paul Rinkulis college scholarship program, which helps deserving players pursue their educational goals.” “All Dorchester Sports and Leadership takes our mission of fostering healthy lifestyles and leadership skills very seriously. As we emerge from the past two years of near isolation, we recognize that participating in team sports helps address the stress our youth have been experiencing,” said Candice Gartley, Executive Director of All Dorchester Sports & Leadership. “Active bodies go hand in hand with good mental health. The generous support that Amazon provides ADSL allows us to work to re-engage our youth in healthy athletic activities.” “To say this support from Amazon is game-changing is an understatement. This investment is just the spark needed after being sidelined by the pandemic to ensure sports in Lawrence come back with better quality opportunities that reach more deserving kids,” said Stephanie McArdle, Executive Director of Beyond Soccer & Beyond Volley. “In addition to helping Beyond Soccer and Beyond Volley advance its mission, providing affordable, year-round sports and recreational programs to thousands of kids, Amazon’s impact will be magnified through its simultaneous investment in the Lawrence Sports Alliance and the dozens of Lawrence sports groups involved, like Suenos Basketball, Lawrence Pop Warner, and Serving Stars, who, like Amazon, believe in the power of sports to strengthen communities and make sure young people reap sports’ awesome, life-long benefits.” “On behalf of the Revere Youth Baseball and Softball League, it is a pleasure to thank Amazon for their generous donation to our league,” said Shawn Vetere, coach and board member of Revere Youth Baseball and Softball. “It has been a struggle to operate the league since early 2020 without the benefit of being able to fundraise because of the then COVID-19 Restrictions. The funds you are donating will help our league to operate under normal conditions once again. These funds will also enable us to provide better equipment and uniforms for the children. Additionally, the funds will help fund the two new batting cages we will be installing at our complex.” “Milford Youth Baseball would like to extend a sincere thank you to Amazon for their generous donation,” said Paul Pellegrini, President, Milford Youth Baseball. “Amazon’s continued commitment to the Milford Community is evident through this donation which will assist in the renovation of the Rosenfeld Field Project. This grant will also allow Milford Youth Baseball to purchase much needed equipment which in turns defrays the costs associated with participation. Youth sports is an integral part of developing key skills such as healthy physical activity, personal relationships, teamwork, competition, and building confidence. These skills are building blocks for the future. We are grateful that Amazon has decided to support our league as a part of their significant investment in the youth of New England.” “As our state turns the corner on the pandemic, we need to ensure our young people have access to equitable, affordable, and local recreational activities,” Smith added. “Investing in these programs is an investment in our youth and in helping them lead healthier, happier lives.” Over the last year, Amazon has supported local communities across the Commonwealth through monetary and in-kind donations to nonprofit organizations and public schools. Some examples include donations to King Boston, The Greater Boston Food Bank, The United Way of Massachusetts Bay and Merrimack Valley, local chapters of the Boys & Girls Club, local public schools and other area nonprofits. Last spring Amazon announced a donation of one million dollars to the arts and cultural institutions in and around Boston. There are also more than 28,000 organizations in Massachusetts that Amazon customers can support simply by shopping on Amazon smile. As of the fourth quarter of 2021, the company was employing more than 21,000 full- and part-time employees across its Massachusetts operations and is continuing to hire. Amazon announced support for the following Massachusetts youth sports organizations: Boston All Dorchester Sports & Leadership Boston Unity Cup South End Soccer Allston-Brighton Little League Allston-Brighton Youth Hockey Boston Hurricanes Athletic Club Boston Triathlon Association Dorchester Little League Dorchester Pop Warner Dorchester Youth Hockey East Boston Little League East Boston Soccer League East Boston Softball League Hyde Park Pop Warner Hyde Park Youth Basketball Hyde Park Youth Hockey Boston Parks and Recreation Department Mattapan Patriots Roxbury Youth Soccer League Roxbury Pop Warner Football Mission Hill Little League North End Athletic Association (NEAA) North End Little League North End Youth Hockey South Boston Sports Hall of Fame Scholarship Trust Fund South Boston Youth Hockey South End Baseball Parkway Sports League Haverhill Haverhill Jr. Hillies Youth Football Haverhill Girls Softball Haverhill Youth Soccer Lawrence Beyond Soccer & Volley Lawrence Sports Alliance Lynnfield Lynnfield Pioneer Youth Football & Cheer Milford Milford Youth Baseball Revere Revere Jr Pop Warner Football Revere Youth Baseball & Softball Salem Salem Little League Salem Youth Football and Cheering Worcester Worcester Youth Soccer Worcester Field Hockey Ty Cobb Little League Joe Schwartz Little League Jesse Burkett Little League Additional Partner Quotes: “Dorchester Little League and Babe Ruth Baseball would like to express a heartfelt thank you to Amazon for the extreme generosity with your thoughtful donation,” said Shaun O’Sullivan, Vice President-Dorchester Little League and Babe Ruth Baseball. “This contribution serves as an investment in our Dorchester community in the City of Boston for our children to learn, play and enjoy the game of baseball! We appreciate Amazon’s commitment and goodwill that will provide additional resources serving kids and families in our program! Amazon hits a home run for Dorchester Baseball!” “Dorchester Youth Hockey greatly appreciates the amazing donation from Amazon,” said Peter O’Sullivan, board member-Dorchester Youth Hockey. “This phenomenal gift extends opportunities to kids of our program to continue developing as athletes, hockey players, and contributing members of our neighborhood and Boston! We thank Amazon for the incredible support and will continue to share the same ideals of teamwork, sportsmanship and humanity! Amazon scores goals for Dorchester Youth Hockey!” “Play Ball deeply appreciates Amazon’s support to give more middle school students the opportunity to play sports across the Commonwealth. We are excited to get more 'feet on the field' in Boston, Lawrence, Holyoke and New Bedford in the months to come,” said Chris Lynch, Executive Director of Play Ball Foundation. About Amazon Amazon is guided by four principles: customer obsession rather than competitor focus, passion for invention, commitment to operational excellence, and long-term thinking. Amazon strives to be Earth’s Most Customer-Centric Company, Earth’s Best Employer, and Earth’s Safest Place to Work. Customer reviews, 1-Click shopping, personalized recommendations, Prime, Fulfillment by Amazon, AWS, Kindle Direct Publishing, Kindle, Career Choice, Fire tablets, Fire TV, Amazon Echo, Alexa, Just Walk Out technology, Amazon Studios, and The Climate Pledge are some of the things pioneered by Amazon. For more information, visit amazon.com/about and follow @AmazonNews. Contacts Amazon.com, Inc. Media Hotline Amazon-pr@amazon.comwww.amazon.com/pr

• 

  Hawaii American Water Reaches Revenue Settlement to Fund Infrastructure and Service Improvements

  Settlement reinforces Company’s commitment to providing reliable wastewater service that contributes to the protection of the environment HONOLULU--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Hawaii American Water has filed a settlement agreement with Consumer Advocates at the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission (HPUC) on new rates for its Hawaii Kai customers. This is the first time Hawaii American Water has adjusted rates for these customers since 2011 and the updated rates are expected to go into effect in July of this year. In the last decade, Hawaii American Water has made improvements that protect the environment by adding additional disinfection, increasing renewable energy use and reducing waste. The new rates will provide approximately $1.7 million in additional annual revenue for investments in local infrastructure maintenance, repair and replacement. The average increase for all customers amounts to an approximately 17-percent increase. For the average single family customer monthly rates would increase from $67.08 to $78.60, for multi-family customers the cost for monthly service would increase from $57.08 to $66.88. “This settlement completes a vital process to sustain high quality wastewater infrastructure and service,” said Lee Mansfield, Manager of Hawaii American Water. “We are pleased to reach a settlement and look forward to using the new revenue to continue improving wastewater services for our Hawaii Kai customers.” Since 2011, Hawaii American Water has made more than $32 million in investments to improve wastewater treatment and services. Major projects have included the installation of ultraviolet disinfection treatment, sludge de-watering facility, solar energy upgrades, replacing and improving pumps at our lift stations and treatment plant and other process improvements. The vast majority of the settlement funds these capital improvements and the remainder funds higher operating costs, including wage increases that have occurred over the last decade. About Hawaii American Water: Hawaii American Water, a subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), provides quality wastewater services to approximately 25,000 people. About American Water: With a history dating back to 1886, American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest and most geographically diverse U.S. publicly traded water and wastewater utility company. The company employs more than 6,400 dedicated professionals who provide regulated and regulated-like drinking water and wastewater services to more than 14 million people in 24 states. American Water provides safe, clean, affordable and reliable water services to our customers to help keep their lives flowing. For more information, visit amwater.com and follow American Water on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn Contacts Hawaii American WaterEvan Jacobs Hawaii American Water Director of External Affairs Phone: 707-495-6135 Email: evan.jacobs@amwater.com

• 

  Olympia Financial Group Inc. Announces an Increase to Its Monthly Cash Dividend and May Dividend

  CALGARY, Alberta--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Olympia Financial Group Inc. (“Olympia”) (TSX: OLY) is pleased to announce that its Board of Directors has approved a $0.04 increase to the monthly cash dividend paid on the Common shares of Olympia from $0.23 to $0.27 per Common share. Olympia’s new monthly cash dividend of $0.27 per Common share will commence with the May 2022 monthly cash dividend. Olympia’s cash dividend payments to holders of Olympia Common shares are designated as "eligible dividends" for Canadian tax purposes. In accordance with the above, the Board of Directors of Olympia also declared a monthly cash dividend on the Common shares of Olympia of $0.27 per common share. This dividend will be payable on May 31, 2022, to shareholders on record as at May 19, 2022. The ex-dividend date is May 18, 2022. Olympia designates the entire amount of this taxable cash dividend to be an “eligible dividend” for purposes of the Income Tax Act (Canada), as amended from time to time. Please contact your tax advisor if you have any questions with regards to the designation of the eligible dividend. About Olympia Financial Group Inc. Olympia Financial Group Inc. conducts most of its operations through its subsidiary Olympia Trust Company, a non-deposit taking trust company. Olympia Trust Company is licensed to conduct trust activities in Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Quebec, Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia. Olympia Trust Company administers self-directed registered plan accounts, provides currency exchange and payment services, corporate trust, and transfer agency services. Olympia also offers private health services plans and information technology services to exempt market dealers, registrants and issuers through its subsidiary Olympia Benefits Inc. Olympia’s common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol “OLY”. Statements Regarding Forward Looking Information Certain portions of this press release as well as other public statements by Olympia contain “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation, which is also referred to as “forward–looking statements”, which may not be based on historical fact. Wherever possible, words such as “will”, “plans,” “expects,” “targets,” “continue”, “estimates,” “scheduled,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “intends,” “may,” and similar expressions or statements that certain actions, events or results “may,” “could,” “would,” “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved, have been used to identify forward-looking information. Forward-looking statements contained in Olympia’s public disclosure include, without limitation, Olympia’s earnings expectations, fee income, expense levels, general economic, political and market factors in North America and internationally, interest and foreign exchange rates, global equity and capital markets, business competition, technological change, changes in government regulations, unexpected judicial or regulatory proceedings, catastrophic events, and Olympia’s ability to complete strategic transactions and other factors. In addition, this news release contains forward-looking statements relating to the monthly dividend payments to holders of Olympia’s common shares. All material assumptions used in making forward-looking statements are based on management’s knowledge of current business conditions and expectations of future business conditions and trends, including their knowledge of the current interest rate and liquidity conditions affecting Olympia and the Canadian economy. Certain material factors or assumptions are applied by Olympia in making forward-looking statements, including without limitation, factors and assumptions regarding interest and foreign exchange rates, availability of key personnel, the effect of competition, government regulation of its business, computer failure or security breaches, future capital requirements, acceptance of its products in the marketplace, its operating cost structure, the current tax regime and the ability of Olympia to obtain necessary third-party and governmental approvals, as applicable. Contacts Olympia Financial Group Inc.Rick Skauge, President and Chief Executive OfficerGerhard Barnard, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial OfficerPhone: (403) 261-0900Fax: (403) 265-1455