New Research Uncovers Edge Computing Challenges and Highlights Strategies for Future Proofing Edge Capabilities
Schneider Electric, the leader in digital transformation of energy management and automation, today unveiled findings from a newly commissioned IDC White Paper entitled, Succeeding at Digital First Connected Operations, that highlights the power of edge computing in enabling the shift to a digital-first world. The white paper details responses from over 1,000 IT and operations professionals across industrial, healthcare, education, and other verticals as well as a series of in-depth interviews with industrial enterprises. Respondents were global, representing firms in the United States, China, Japan, Germany, The United Kingdom, India, and Ireland. The organizations ranged in size from 100 to more than 1,000 employees. Responses provided insights about the factors driving edge investments, the challenges firms faced while deploying to the edge, obstacles to continued investment, and strategic recommendations to future-proof edge capabilities. “As organizations seek to create new or improved experiences for customers and to become more operationally efficient, improve safety and security, and become more sustainable, they are leaning more on digital technologies. The white paper examines the crucial role that edge computing and edge deployments play in enabling digital-first, connected operations,” says Chris Hanley, SVP, Commercial Operations & Global Channels, leading edge commercial strategy, Schneider Electric. “It highlights strategies that IT professional and decision makers can adopt to future proof their edge computing capabilities to support remote, connected, secure, reliable, resilient, and sustainable operations.” Edge computing is one of the major enablers of a digital-first paradigm. In fact, the most common use cases of edge infrastructure include cybersecurity systems to monitor the operational network locally as well as storing and processing operational data to bring it to the cloud. Further, when organizations were asked why they were investing in edge computing to support these workloads, respondents cited, “improve cybersecurity” (50%) and “systems resiliency and reliability” (44%). Yet, there are various challenges that organizations must overcome to ensure their edge infrastructure, and thus, their connected operations, are resilient and reliable. Despite the promise of the edge, many organizations report connectivity and power outage concerns. In fact, 32% of respondents have experienced a “lack of connectivity or slow connectivity” with their edge deployments. Further, 31% have experienced a “utility power outage or power surge lasting more than 60 seconds.” - Challenges to overcome when transitioning to digital-first connected operations (1) Security. Physical and cybersecurity concerns are high when connecting operations. This concern will require systems and processes that are tailored for this new paradigm. Yet, once connected to the cloud, the power of operational data can be harnessed to drive a host of new and enhanced use cases. Such data can enhance collaboration in the enterprise and enable remote operations capabilities that result in labor efficiencies while ensuring companies have resilient, remote operations capabilities. (2) Skills. The workforce needs to have the right skills to execute across technology settings and to be able to build alignment internally to drive change. This focus will require companies to engage with new ecosystem partners inside and outside of their organization. (3) Reliability. As more of the local operations capabilities are directly supported remotely through the connected edge, reliability is a critical concern. “Resilient edge resources are the foundation for shifting to digital-first, connected operations,” said Jennifer Cooke, Research Director, Edge Strategies, IDC. “Organizations will become vulnerable if and when their technology fails. To future proof edge deployments, leaders must develop a strategy that addresses concerns, such as cybersecurity and connectivity issues, and ensures access to the skills required to maintain resilient edge infrastructures.” How organizations can future-proof edge capabilities to support their transition to digital-first connected operations • Resilient, secure, sustainable power and connectivity resources: By including resilient power and connectivity resources early in the edge planning phases, companies can reduce the risk of downtime. • Remote Monitoring and Management of edge resources at large scale: The ongoing management of edge infrastructure at scale will challenge all organizations. Having the right skills in the right place at the right time will be difficult if not impossible. Ensure that your edge resources are equipped to support continuous remote monitoring and autonomous operation. • Trusted partners that can provide the necessary skills for the above edge resources: Consider trusted partners to provide industry best practices and service in situations or locations where it is not economically or physically feasible to do it yourself. Trusted service partners can often predict problems before they occur. Further, look for partners that also have a commitment to sustainability since among those surveyed, 82% cited commitment to sustainability as a selection criterion for edge solution providers As a trusted partner and full solution provider, Schneider Electric works closely with customers in designing their strategies to ensure certainty, resiliency, security and sustainability throughout the design, deployment and management at the edge via: • Resilient, secure, connected and sustainable physical infrastructure solutions for any edge environment – delivering certainty in a connected world; • A cloud-based monitoring and management platform EcoStruxure IT providing remote visibility including security, data-driven insights and recommendations, reporting capabilities and digital service capabilities; and • An integrated ecosystem composed of IT Technology alliances, a global network of trusted experienced channel partners and service engineers as well as rules-based design tools. Download the entire IDC White Paper, sponsored by Schneider Electric, Succeeding at Connected Operations with Edge Computing, doc #US48982222 , April 2022) here. https://www.se.com/ww/en/download/document/SE_IDC_WP_Edge/
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.
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Media of the Future: Reliable media allow the society to distinguish truth from untruth
"The aim of disinformation campaigns is not necessarily to change the views or attitudes of their audiences, but to create a kind of chaos that prevents them from accessing verified data", said Alexandru Giboi, Secretary General of the European Association of Press Agencies (EANA). "I would compare the situation to a murky water reservoir, in which it is difficult to determine the right directions and to establish a landmark. The role of press agencies is to constantly clear this stream of information flowing to us every day," said Giboi. The expert was a special guest at the Media of the Future international conference organised by the Polish Press Agency. The Association of European Press Agencies (EANA) brings together 30 national news agencies from 30 countries of the continent. The main objective of the organisation is to work towards creating a favorable economic and legal environment for the operation of press agencies, among others, in terms of copyright and access to information sources. Source: PAP MediaRoom
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Media of the Future: The fight against disinformation is purifying murky water
Media of the Future is a conference that covered the most important topics of recent months - from combating disinformation, through changes in the media market, to the future of mass media in the face of war conflicts and technological transformation. Special guests of the fourth edition of the Conference were the heads of European Press Agencies. How to react to the growing Russian propaganda? How aware are European societies of online threats? How to reinforce safe behaviors in the virtual world and deal with the flood of fake news? These questions, among others, were answered by the heads of European Press Agencies: Clemens Pig, President of EANA (European Alliance of News Agencies which brings together news agencies from all over the continent) and President of the Austrian Press Agency (APA); Fabrice Fries, President of the French Press Agency (AFP); Nataliia Kostina, Editor-in-Chief of the Foreign Department of the National News Agency of Ukraine (Ukrinform); Alexandru Giboi, Secretary General of the European Association of Press Agencies (EANA); Branka-Gabriela Vojvodić, President of the Croatian Press Agency (HINA); Kiril Valchev, General Director of the Bulgarian Press Agency (BTA); and Wojciech Surmacz, President of the Polish Press Agency (PAP). The debate "War in the Media" was chaired by Wojciech Surmacz, President of PAP. During the discussion, it was pointed out that in order to to talk about the hybrid war, you need to go back to the onset of the pandemic. It was then that many social media accounts were created, whose aim was to disinform and spread the untruth. "After February 24, these accounts began to spread disinformation about the war. These cold-blooded actions have been going on for years. It takes many educational campaigns, such as #FakeHunter, to properly assess disinformation. It is also worth cultivating good practices in online behavior amongst the youngest”, argued Justyna Orłowska, Plenipotentiary of the Prime Minister for GovTech, Plenipotentiary of the Minister of Education and Science for Digital Transformation. Nataliia Kostina, Editor-in-Chief of the Foreign Department of the National News Agency of Ukraine (Ukrinform), noted that the media are on the front line and play a huge role in the fight against Russian aggression. "We appreciate the understanding of our problems. No one in Europe is taking Russian propaganda seriously", said Nataliia Kostina. Alexandru Giboi, Secretary General of the European Association of Press Agencies (EANA), highlighted the important role of news agencies. "It is important to fight against disinformation and to show true, verified information, that is, to purify murky water", argued Alexandru Giboi. In turn, Branka-Gabriela Vojvodić, President of the Croatian Press Agency (HINA), reminded that war changes the world and it changes us. Therefore, educational activities are important, which allows us to remain vigilant, and to distinguish the truth from the untruth. We must wage a war on propaganda, which must take some time to combat. "Fake news is free, verified information costs. It is necessary to learn to capture from the ocean of news proven and reliable information”, pointed out Kiril Valchev, General Director of the Bulgarian Press Agency (BTA). In accordance with the title of the Conference, Media of the Future, the debates and presentations also discussed the use of new technologies in the media industry, i.e. artificial intelligence in journalism. Products and solutions were presented by the Athens Technology Center (ATC), JP/Politikens Hus and CISION/PRNewswire. There was also a presentation of the results of a study conducted jointly by the Polish Press Agency and PBI on how Poles use information on the web and in electronic media. "The uniqueness of the study was that we studied cross media, that is users of information on the internet, on television and on the radio. In this way, we could study the entire population of people who listen, watch or read news in Poland", explained Łukasz Świerżewski, member of the Board of PAP. The results showed that about 54% of Poles are regularly exposed to news. "The recipient of news is a mature person, city resident, pensioner, manager or business owner. The most widely reaching medium in the Polish society is the radio. The Poles spend the most time watching television, while the internet is the most accurate medium, as here we can decide for ourselves what we are interested in and what we are looking for", explained Marcin Niemczyk, Advisor to the Board of PBI. The invited guests, including representatives of the media, publishers and technology companies, also discussed the law implementing the Copyright Directive and the related laws, as well as the importance of this document for the media industry, the creative industry and the so-called Big Tech. Poland, like other EU countries, is obliged to implement the Digital Directive, which means negotiations between content providers such as publishers and media, and intermediaries such as digital platforms like Google or Facebook. It was pointed out that currently only intermediaries make money from the distribution of content produced by publishers on the internet, and publishers do not have any financial benefits from this. "The Directive obliges social media content aggregators to obtain licences for published content. Simply put, journalists will be the beneficiaries of the information distributed by Big Tech”, explained Paweł Nowacki, an independent media and e-commerce market consultant. "This is an important project that will strengthen the editorial offices of the local media, and will build their strength", argued Paweł Laskowski, President of the Board of PBI. "Unfortunately, the law lacks a negotiation mechanism between the parties. Without this, you cannot expect that money will flow to local publishers. Italy, Belgium and the Czech Republic have adopted such mechanisms, and it is also possible in Poland", pointed out Damian Flisak, Head of Public Affairs of Ringier Axel Springer Polska. "Media of the Future deals with the most important issues in the media ecosystem, but at the same time we want to set new trends. This year's fourth edition could not have been dominated by a theme other than the war in Ukraine", summed up Łukasz Świerżewski, member of the Board of PAP. Source: PAP MediaRoom
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Media of the Future: The free world must understand that Russian propaganda threatens its existence
A special guest of the Media of the Future conference organized by the Polish Press Agency was Nataliia Kostina, Editor-in-Chief of the Foreign Department of the National News Agency of Ukraine - Ukrinform. From the perspective of not only a professional journalist, but also a person directly affected by the Russian aggression, she pointed to the multidimensionality of the war, also taking place in the information domain. "While in the countries located in the vicinity of Ukraine - in Poland or in the Czech Republic, there is full awareness of the threat from the Kremlin, in some Western European countries the situation is not so optimistic. In order to effectively combat the wave of Russian disinformation, the media around the world should first of all clearly tell themselves and their audiences that Russia is the aggressor threatening our common values", said Nataliia Kostina. The fourth edition of the Media of the Future conference was attended by representatives of mass media, technology companies and publishers from Poland and abroad. Special guests of the event were the heads of leading European news agencies. Source: PAP MediaRoom
Review
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[CES 2021] LG Emphasized "Needs to Innovate Beyond Boundaries Between Fields in the New Normal Era" Through Future Talk
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[CES 2021] Sony Unveiled Its Latest Initiatives Surpassing “Limits of Creativity” at CES 2021
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Hyperconnect, Key to social platform success: reflecting the ‘user voice’
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Hyperconnect : real-time video AI monitoring system can now auto-block live video content within 0.006 seconds
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
