Categories
Business Culture Science

Catalent announces new operating structure

Company Consolidates from Four Reporting Segments to Two, One Focusing on Biologics and the Other on Pharmaceuticals and Consumer Health

 

SOMERSET, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Catalent, Inc. (NYSE: CTLT), the global leader in enabling biopharma, cell, gene, and consumer health partners to optimize development, launch, and supply of better patient treatments across multiple modalities, today announced changes to its operating structure and executive leadership team that went into effect July 1. This new organizational structure includes a shift from four reporting segments to two, each representing roughly half of the total company revenue.

According to Alessandro Maselli, Catalent’s President and Chief Executive Officer since July 1, the segment changes reflect evolving customer and industry trends and position the company to deliver its next level of growth and achievement.

 

“Our industry continues to demonstrate steady growth, and this new structure will allow us to be more agile in meeting and anticipating customer needs and expectations,” said Maselli. “Among other benefits, it will create commercial synergies for our customers, as they will be better able to access the full range of Catalent services applicable to their molecules.”

 

Dr. Aris Gennadios was named Group President of Catalent’s newly formed Pharma and Consumer Health segment. The new segment consolidates the company’s prior Softgel & Oral Technologies segment, which Gennadios had led since 2013, and its Oral & Specialty Delivery and Clinical Supply Services segments.

 

“Combining our businesses focused on the development and supply of pharmaceutical and consumer health products will provide our customers with more integrated solutions, streamlined service, and simplified delivery of the solutions they need to accelerate their path to patients and consumers,” said Dr. Gennadios.

 

The new Pharma and Consumer Health segment will encompass the offerings of the three prior segments, including the company’s market-leading softgels, Zydis® fast-dissolve technologies, gummy dosage forms, clinical development and trial supply services, and global pharma manufacturing platforms. Dedicated teams will focus on Catalent’s pharmaceutical, consumer health, and clinical development and supply solutions to further drive value for customers and the opportunity for accelerated growth of these businesses.

 

The scope of Catalent’s other reporting segment, Biologics, continues without any change.

 

This organizational restructuring has also been accompanied by a few additional leadership changes. Jonathan Arnold, who previously served as President, Oral & Specialty Delivery, since 2017, is Catalent’s new Senior Vice President, Chief Commercial Officer, and Head of Transformation. He will be dedicated to ensuring a best-in-class customer experience and working closely with others on the leadership team to optimize the company’s growing portfolio.

 

Additionally, Steven Fasman, who previously served as Senior Vice President and General Counsel since 2014, will be Catalent’s Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer, a newly created position. Mr. Fasman will oversee certain administrative functions of the company, including legal & compliance, information technology, engineering, procurement, governmental affairs, and various ESG-related departments.

 

Finally, Karen Flynn has announced her decision to retire from her role as Catalent’s Senior Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer. “Karen has played a critical role on the Executive Leadership Team since joining Catalent in early 2020. I am immensely grateful for her leadership, innovative thinking, and steadfast commitment to the company,” said Maselli.

 

About Catalent, Inc.

Catalent, Inc. (NYSE: CTLT), an S&P 500® company, is the global leader in enabling pharma, biotech, and consumer health partners to optimize product development, launch, and full life-cycle supply for patients around the world. With broad and deep scale and expertise in development sciences, delivery technologies, and multi-modality manufacturing, Catalent is the industry’s preferred partner for personalized medicines, consumer health brand extensions, and blockbuster drugs. Catalent helps accelerate over 1,000 partner programs and launch over 150 new products every year. Its flexible manufacturing platforms at over 50 global sites supply over 70 billion doses of nearly 7,000 products to over 1,000 customers annually. Catalent’s expert workforce exceeds 19,000, including more than 2,500 scientists and technicians. Headquartered in Somerset, New Jersey, the company generated $4 billion in revenue in its 2021 fiscal year. For more information, visit www.catalent.com.

 

Forward-Looking Statements

This release contains both historical and forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact, are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of statements that include phrases such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “estimate,” “plan,” “project,” “predict,” “hope,” “foresee,” “likely,” “may,” “could,” “target,” “will,” “would,” or other words or phrases with similar meanings. Similarly, statements that describe Catalent’s objectives, plans, or goals are, or may be, forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations of future events. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or unknown risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results could vary materially from Catalent’s expectations and projections. Some of the factors that could cause actual results to differ include, but are not limited to, the following: the current or future effects of the COVID-19 pandemic or any global health developments on Catalent’s or its customers’ or suppliers’ businesses; participation in a highly competitive market and increased competition that may adversely affect Catalent’s business; demand for its offerings, which depends in part on its customers’ research and development and the clinical and market success of their products; product and other liability risks that could adversely affect Catalent’s results of operations, financial condition, liquidity and cash flows; failure to comply with existing and future regulatory requirements; failure to provide quality offerings to customers could have an adverse effect on Catalent’s business and subject it to regulatory actions and costly litigation; problems providing the highly exacting and complex services or support required; global economic, political and regulatory risks to Catalent’s operations; inability to enhance existing or introduce new technology or service offerings in a timely manner; inadequate patents, copyrights, trademarks and other forms of intellectual property protections; fluctuations in the costs, availability, and suitability of the components of the products Catalent manufactures, including active pharmaceutical ingredients, excipients, purchased components and raw materials; changes in market access or healthcare reimbursement in the United States or internationally; fluctuations in the exchange rate of the U.S. dollar against other currencies; adverse tax legislative or regulatory initiatives or challenges or adjustments to Catalent’s tax positions; loss of key personnel; risks generally associated with information systems; inability to complete any future acquisition or other transaction that may complement or expand its business or divest of non-strategic businesses or assets and difficulties in successfully integrating acquired businesses and realizing anticipated benefits of such acquisitions; risks associated with timely and successfully completing, and correctly anticipating the future demand predicted for, capital expansion projects at existing facilities; offerings and customers’ products that may infringe on the intellectual property rights of third parties; environmental, health, and safety laws and regulations, which could increase costs and restrict operations; labor and employment laws and regulations or labor difficulties, which could increase costs or result in operational disruptions; additional cash contributions required to fund Catalent’s existing pension plans; substantial leverage that may limit its ability to raise additional capital to fund operations and react to changes in the economy or in the industry; and exposure to interest-rate risk to the extent of its variable-rate debt preventing it from meeting its obligations under its indebtedness. For a more detailed discussion of these and other factors, see the information under the caption “Risk Factors” in Catalent’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2021, filed August 30, 2021. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this release or as of the date they are made, and Catalent does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement as a result of new information or future events or developments except to the extent required by law.

 

More products. Better treatments. Reliably supplied.™

Contacts

Media Contact:

Chris Halling

+44 (0)7580 041073

chris.halling@catalent.com

Investor Contact:

Paul Surdez

+1 (732) 537-6325

investors@catalent.com

Categories
Business Culture Technology

NICE wins the digital innovation award for customer experience excellence

NICE CXone recognized in Ventana Research Digital Innovation Awards as technology vendor that best exemplifies innovation in applications and technologies that support digital customer engagement

 

HOBOKEN, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — #NICENICE (Nasdaq: NICE) today announced NICE CXone has won for Customer Experience excellence in the 15th Annual Ventana Research Digital Innovation Awards. The Digital Innovation Awards highlight technology providers that exemplify innovation and strive to create solutions that improve people, processes, information, and technology.

CXone is designed to create seamless digital customer experiences, addressing the full CXi landscape. With the unique capability to understand customer intent and optimal experiences with Enlighten XO, and inject knowledge across the customer journey, CXone allows organizations to build smart assistants with a data-driven approach and not based on guesswork.

 

As part of the judging process and methodology, Ventana Research examined case studies and submissions to evaluate nominated organizations’ leadership and outcomes using technology, the best practices it utilized, and the associated business impact and value. All types of organizations were invited to participate, and submissions spanned industries and organizations of all sizes across the world.

 

Paul Jarman, CEO, NICE CXone, stated, “Providing frictionless digital experiences is at the core of our innovation and we are honored to be recognized by Ventana Research. With our unique data and AI capabilities, our digital portfolio takes the guesswork out of the bot building process and is the only way to create the smart self-service experience that consumers demand.

 

“NICE is tackling the limitations of building chatbots head-on, by applying AI at scale to engineer better recognition and accuracy,” said Keith Dawson, Vice President and Research Director for CX at Ventana Research. “CXone is an example of innovation made real, in the service of smoother and more successful customer experiences.”

 

About NICE

With NICE (Nasdaq: NICE), it’s never been easier for organizations of all sizes around the globe to create extraordinary customer experiences while meeting key business metrics. Featuring the world’s #1 cloud native customer experience platform, CXone, NICE is a worldwide leader in AI-powered self-service and agent-assisted CX software for the contact center – and beyond. Over 25,000 organizations in more than 150 countries, including over 85 of the Fortune 100 companies, partner with NICE to transform – and elevate – every customer interaction. www.nice.com

 

About Ventana Research

Ventana Research is the most authoritative and respected market research and advisory services firm. We provide insight and expert guidance on mainstream and disruptive technologies through a unique set of research-based offerings including benchmark research and technology evaluation assessments, education workshops and our research and advisory services, Ventana On-Demand. Our unparalleled understanding of the role of technology in optimizing business processes and performance and our best practices guidance are rooted in our rigorous research-based benchmarking of people, processes, information and technology across business and IT functions in every industry. This benchmark research plus our market coverage and in-depth knowledge of hundreds of technology providers means we can deliver education and expertise to our clients to increase the value they derive from technology investments while reducing time, cost and risk.

 

Ventana Research provides the most comprehensive analyst and research coverage in the industry; business and IT professionals worldwide are members of our community and benefit from Ventana Research’s insights, as do highly regarded media and association partners around the globe. Our views and analyses are distributed daily through blogs and social media channels including Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. To learn how Ventana Research advances the maturity of organizations’ use of information and technology through benchmark research, education and advisory services, visit www.ventanaresearch.com.

 

Trademark Note: NICE and the NICE logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of NICE Ltd. All other marks are trademarks of their respective owners. For a full list of NICE’s marks, please see: www.nice.com/nice-trademarks.

 

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements, including the statements by Barry Cooper, are based on the current beliefs, expectations and assumptions of the management of NICE Ltd. (the “Company”). In some cases, such forward-looking statements can be identified by terms such as “believe,” “expect,” “seek,” “may,” “will,” “intend,” “should,” “project,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “estimate,” or similar words. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results or performance of the Company to differ materially from those described herein, including but not limited to the impact of changes in economic and business conditions, including as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic; competition; successful execution of the Company’s growth strategy; success and growth of the Company’s cloud Software-as-a-Service business; changes in technology and market requirements; decline in demand for the Company’s products; inability to timely develop and introduce new technologies, products and applications; difficulties or delays in absorbing and integrating acquired operations, products, technologies and personnel; loss of market share; an inability to maintain certain marketing and distribution arrangements; the Company’s dependency on third-party cloud computing platform providers, hosting facilities and service partners;, cyber security attacks or other security breaches against the Company; the effect of newly enacted or modified laws, regulation or standards on the Company and our products and various other factors and uncertainties discussed in our filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). For a more detailed description of the risk factors and uncertainties affecting the company, refer to the Company’s reports filed from time to time with the SEC, including the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise them, except as required by law.

Contacts

Corporate Media Contact
Christopher Irwin-Dudek, +1 201 561 4442, ET

chris.irwin-dudek@nice.com

Investors
Marty Cohen, +1 551 256 5354, ET

ir@nice.com

Omri Arens, +972 3 763 0127, CET

ir@nice.com

Categories
Culture Local News News Now!

Mercer County executives offer July 4 fireworks safety reminders

Summer is synonymous with barbecues and outdoor parties, parades, and fireworks. As warmer weather leads to more outdoor gatherings and as Independence Day and its celebrations approach, it is vital to remember how dangerous fireworks can be. They can cause serious burns, eye injuries, and fires.

The National Fire Protection Association offers these tips on ways to celebrate without using fireworks.

If you choose to use fireworks, please remember that only certain kinds are legal in New Jersey. Permissible fireworks are limited to hand-held or ground-based sparklers, snakes, and glow worms; smoke devices; and trick noisemakers, including party poppers, snappers and drop pops. The sale, possession and use of all other fireworks requires a valid permit.

If you plan on using fireworks, please follow these tips:

  • Ensure that you only use fireworks that are legal in New Jersey.
  • Never allow young children to handle fireworks.
  • Older children should use them only under close adult supervision.
  • Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol.
  • Wear protective eye gear if you are using fireworks or are standing nearby when someone else is.
  • Never hold lit fireworks in your hand.
  • Never light fireworks indoors.
  • Only use fireworks away from people, houses and flammable material.
  • Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
  • Never ignite devices in a container.
  • Do not try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks.
  • Soak both spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding.
  • Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don’t go off or in case of a fire.

Also, please remember that sparklers, which many kids love, are dangerous. They burn at temperatures high enough to melt some metals. Sparklers can quickly ignite clothing and account for more than 25 percent of emergency room visits for fireworks injuries.

For more information on fireworks safety, please contact the Mercer County Youth Fire Setter Advisory Committee at 609-278-4845 or rtaylor@mercercounty.org.

The Mercer County Department of Human Services fosters a comprehensive human service delivery system that enhances the health, safety, and quality of life for all residents of Mercer County. The department’s goal is to create an environment of public trust by empowering and strengthening individuals and families, advocating for sound policy, mobilizing resources, and acting as champions for those citizens who are most vulnerable and in need of services.

Through its offices and divisions, the Department of Human Services provides funding to community-based organizations for those organizations to provide direct services to Mercer County residents. The department does not provide direct services to Mercer County residents but directs Mercer County residents to where they can access services. With this funding, the Department of Human Services complies with procurement practices in accordance with the New Jersey Public Contracts Law 40:A:11-1 et seq.

— Mercer County offices

Categories
Business Culture News Now!

Hostess Brands appoints Darryl Riley to be company’s first Chief Sustainability Officer

Reporting to the CEO, Position Underscores Hostess Brands’ Focus on Sustainability

 

LENEXA, Kan. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Hostess Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ: TWNK), a leading sweet snacks company, today announced that Darryl Riley has been appointed to the newly created position of Chief Sustainability Officer, effective immediately. Riley, who most recently served as Senior Vice President, Quality, Food Safety and R&D, will report to Andy Callahan, President and CEO of Hostess Brands.


“As Hostess Brands continues to focus on building a socially responsible, modern-day snacking powerhouse, we believe dedicating an executive leadership position to sustainability will drive continued progress and integration,” said Callahan. “With his deep industry expertise and operational experience, Darryl is the ideal leader to help us integrate our sustainability-first approach with our sustainable profitable growth mindset.”

 

In his new role, Riley will expand the company’s capabilities to develop and execute strategies to drive its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) objectives and initiatives. Riley also will lead efforts to develop awareness, education, training, and measurement programs that inspire employees to embrace sustainability and further integrate ESG into the company culture.

 

Riley joined Hostess Brands in 2016 as Senior Vice President, Quality, Food Safety and R&D. Prior to joining Hostess Brands, he held positions of increasing responsibility at various food companies, including Kraft Heinz and Kellogg Company. Riley earned his bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from the New Jersey Institute of Technology.

 

Hostess Brands also announced that Mike Cramer, Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer, who was critical in establishing the Hostess Brands corporate sustainability framework, including our Corporate Responsibility Reports in 2021 and 2022, will transfer ESG responsibilities to Riley. Cramer will continue to be a member of the leadership team with primary responsibility for government & labor relations, mergers & acquisitions (M&A), along with special projects for the CEO and the board of directors, effective immediately.

 

“Mike’s contributions to building the modern-day Hostess Brands since our 2013 relaunch under a bold new vision and operating model have been immeasurable, and we are fortunate to have Mike’s knowledge and wisdom as we continue our growth journey,” said Callahan.

 

Cramer has served in his current role since 2013. Prior to that, he held various executive roles with several private and public consumer products companies, including Pabst Brewing Company, Pinnacle Foods, Ghirardelli Chocolate, International Home Foods and The Morningstar Group. He also was the President and Chief Operating Officer of Southwest Sports Group and President and Chief Operating Officer of the Texas Rangers and Dallas Stars. He is a Senior Fellow in the College of Communication at the University of Texas at Austin, and he earned his juris doctor degree at Marquette University Law School.

 

About Hostess Brands, Inc.

Hostess Brands, Inc. is a leading sweet snacks company focused on developing, manufacturing, marketing, selling and distributing products in North America under the Hostess® and Voortman® brands. The Company produces a variety of new and classic treats, including iconic Hostess® Donettes®, Twinkies®, CupCakes, Ding Dongs® and Zingers®, as well as a variety of Voortman® cookies and wafers. For more information about Hostess Brands, please visit hostessbrands.com.

 

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains statements reflecting our views about the future performance of the company that constitute “forward-looking statements” that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements are generally identified through the inclusion of words such as “believes,” “expects,” “intends,” “estimates,” “projects,” “anticipates,” “will,” “plan,” “may,” “should” or similar language. Statements addressing our future operating performance and statements addressing events and developments that we expect or anticipate will occur are also considered forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements included herein are made only as of the date hereof. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

 

As a result of a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties, the company’s actual results or performance may be materially different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties are identified and discussed in Item 1A-Risk Factors in the company’s annual report on Form 10-K for 2021 filed on March 1, 2022. All subsequent written or oral forward-looking statements attributable to us or persons acting on the company’s behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by these risk factors.

 

Contacts

Investor contact
Amit Sharma

asharma@hostessbrands.com

Media contact
Carly Schesel

carly.schesel@clynch.com

Categories
Culture Local News

Most Mercer County offices to close for Independence Day

TRENTON, N.J. — Most Mercer County government offices and facilities, including all branches of the Mercer County Library System, will be closed Monday, July 4, in observance of Independence Day.

 

 

In addition to being closed July 4, the County Connection office in Hamilton will be closed Saturday, July 2.

 

The following County facilities will remain open:

Trenton-Mercer Airport (except administrative offices), Correction Center, Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Services Communications Center.

 

The following Mercer County Park Commission facilities will be open July 4:

Hopewell Valley Pool, 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Mercer County Park Marina and Spray Park, noon to 6 p.m.; Tennis Center, 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and County golf courses, 6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. The Wildlife Center will accept patients by appointment only from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. throughout the holiday weekend. The Outdoor Education Environment will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with no appointment necessary. Howell Living History Farm, Mercer County Stables, Tulpehaking Nature Center and Park Commission administrative offices will be closed July 4. For more information on Park Commission facilities, visit www.mercercountyparks.org.

Categories
Business Culture

AM Best assigns credit ratings to British Caribbean Insurance Company Limited

OLDWICK, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — #insuranceAM Best has assigned a Financial Strength Rating of B++ (Good) and a Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “bbb” (Good) to British Caribbean Insurance Company Limited (BCIC) (Jamaica). The outlook assigned to these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.

The ratings reflect BCIC’s balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as very strong, as well as its strong operating performance, limited business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management (ERM).

 

BCIC is a property/casualty insurer domiciled in Jamaica and has been in business for approximately 60 years. The company generates the majority of business in its domicile of Jamaica, while also operating in Turks and Caicos and Barbados. BCIC offers an array of insurance products through its branches and agents, including commercial and residential property as well as automobile coverages.

 

BCIC’s balance sheet strength assessment is supported by its very strong risk-adjusted capitalization, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), partially offset by high reinsurance dependence on its property book of business to protect surplus and earnings in the event of a catastrophe. The balance sheet strength assessment also reflects the company’s relatively liquid investment portfolio composed of government of Jamaica short-term repurchase agreements, cash and cash equivalents and fixed income securities. The company has been able to generate organic surplus growth, mainly derived from overall earnings and despite paying regular dividends.

 

BCIC has a proven track record of solid underwriting and overall operating results. Overall earnings have been driven by favorable underwriting performance, as evidenced by the company’s combined ratios over the prior five- and 10-year periods, underpinned by a low expense ratio. Investment income has been a steady contributor to the company’s strong operating results. Return metrics have been solid and ranks BCIC favorably in comparison with its Caribbean peers. The company’s operating performance has benefited from BCIC’s appropriate ERM framework, comprehensive reinsurance program and prudent underwriting guidelines.

 

This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Best’s website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Best’s Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Best’s Credit Ratings. For information on the proper use of Best’s Credit Ratings, Best’s Performance Assessments, Best’s Preliminary Credit Assessments and AM Best press releases, please view Guide to Proper Use of Best’s Ratings & Assessments.

 

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specializing in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

 

Copyright © 2022 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Contacts

Anthony Molinaro
Senior Financial Analyst
+1 908 439 2200, ext. 5608
anthony.molinaro@ambest.com

Ricardo A Longchallon
Senior Financial Analyst
+1 908 439 2200, ext. 5676
ricardo.longchallon@ambest.com

Christopher Sharkey
Manager, Public Relations
+1 908 439 2200, ext. 5159
christopher.sharkey@ambest.com

Jeff Mango
Managing Director, Strategy & Communications
+1 908 439 2200, ext. 5204
jeffrey.mango@ambest.com

Categories
Business Culture

AM Best upgrades credit ratings of Wright National Flood Insurance Company

OLDWICK, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — AM Best has upgraded the Financial Strength Rating to A (Excellent) from A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating to “a” (Excellent) from “a-” (Excellent) of Wright National Flood Insurance Company (WNFIC) (San Antonio, TX). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.

The ratings reflect WNFIC’s balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as strongest, as well as its adequate operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management.

 

The rating upgrades reflect a revision in the company’s business profile assessment, which has benefitted from its strong market presence as the leading U.S. writer of federal flood insurance, which is supported by the largest Write Your Own sales and support staff, in addition to WNFIC’s excellent management with a successful history of executing its strategy. Despite its mono-line orientation, WNFIC’s unique business profile with an exclusive flood focus has proven to benefit the organization as a proponent of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s new pricing methodology for the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), Risk Rating 2.0, by providing early opt-in quotes, education and resources to consumers and agents.

 

WNFIC’s balance sheet strength continues to be supported by its strongest level of risk-adjusted capitalization, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), excellent quality of capital, and conservative investment portfolio. The company’s solid operating performance is primarily driven by profits produced from service fees and ceding commissions from the NFIP, resulting in the company’s ability to generate surplus growth through operations.

 

This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Best’s website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Best’s Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Best’s Credit Ratings. For information on the proper use of Best’s Credit Ratings, Best’s Performance Assessments, Best’s Preliminary Credit Assessments and AM Best press releases, please view Guide to Proper Use of Best’s Ratings & Assessments.

 

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specializing in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

 

Copyright © 2022 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Contacts

Anthony Molinaro
Senior Financial Analyst
+1 908 439 2200, ext. 5608
anthony.molinaro@ambest.com

Christopher Sharkey
Manager, Public Relations
+1 908 439 2200, ext. 5159
christopher.sharkey@ambest.com

Vicky Riggs
Associate Director
+1 908 439 2200, ext. 5039
vicky.riggs@ambest.com

Jeff Mango
Managing Director,
Strategy & Communications
+1 908 439 2200, ext. 5204
jeffrey.mango@ambest.com

Categories
Culture Local News Politics

County Clerk to offer free photo ID cards for veterans during Fourth of July holiday

TRENTON, N.J. — As the Fourth of July approaches, Mercer County Clerk Paula Sollami Covello reminds Mercer County residents that for Fourth of July Veteran ID cards will be free on the following days:

 

July 5 to July 15, and (the County Clerk’s Office is closed Monday, July 4)

 

ID cards that indicate a Veteran’s status have become very useful as many stores and home improvement retailers now offer discounts to veterans. Veterans can receive their photo ID cards by visiting the Mercer County Clerk’s Office located on the 2nd Floor of the Old Courthouse at 209 South Broad Street in Trenton.

The Clerk’s I.D. department is open Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Normally, veterans pay a special reduced fee of $10.00, half the normal price of a general ID card.

 

The requirements for a Mercer County ID card are:

  • Must be a Mercer County resident for at least 6 months.
  • Must produce the following:
    • A valid birth certificate with a raised seal or a naturalization certificate.
    • A valid NJ Motor Vehicle License or voter registration card or, lease agreement.
    • Voting Profile
  • To have their US military veteran status designated on the ID card, veterans must also produce or register their DD-214 honorable discharge papers with the County Clerk’s Office.   

 

RECORDING OF DD-214 

A Certificate of Release – Discharge from Active Duty, or DD-214 Form for short, is generally issued when a service member is honorably discharged from active military duty. The document contains information that is usually needed to verify military service for benefits, retirement, employment, and membership in veterans’ organizations. Additionally, recording a DD-214 Form is free of charge to Mercer County Veterans in the Clerk’s office.

 

“Because military papers can get damaged or lost, veterans should take advantage of the opportunity to file copies of their DD-214 discharge papers with the Clerk’s Office,” said Sollami Covello, whose office maintains and preserves official documents and records for Mercer County.

“If a copy of discharge papers are needed in the future, a veteran, an immediate family member, or a legally recognized representative of their estate may obtain one with proper identification,” noted Sollami Covello.

For further information on how to obtain a Mercer County photo identification card, please call the Clerk’s office at 609-278-7108

Categories
Business Culture Lifestyle

Cherry Hill Mortgage Investment Corporation announces common and preferred dividends for the second quarter 2022

FARMINGDALE, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Cherry Hill Mortgage Investment Corporation (NYSE: CHMI) today announced that its Board of Directors has declared a dividend of $0.27 per share on the Company’s common stock for the second quarter of 2022. The dividend will be payable in cash on July 26, 2022 to holders of the common stock of record as of the close of business on June 30, 2022.

 

 

Additionally, Cherry Hill announced that its Board of Directors has declared a dividend of $0.5125 per share on the Company’s 8.20% Series A Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock and a dividend of $0.515625 per share on the Company’s 8.250% Series B Fixed-to-Floating Rate Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock for the second quarter of 2022. The dividends will be payable in cash on July 15, 2022 to holders of the applicable Series of Preferred Stock of record as of the close of business on June 30, 2022.

 

About Cherry Hill Mortgage Investment Corporation

Cherry Hill Mortgage Investment Corporation is a real estate finance company that acquires, invests in and manages residential mortgage assets in the United States. For additional information, visit www.chmireit.com.

 

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and other federal securities laws, including, among others, statements relating to the Company’s long-term growth opportunities and strategies, expand its market opportunities and create its own Excess MSRs and its ability to generate sustainable and attractive risk-adjusted returns for stockholders. These forward-looking statements are based upon the Company’s present expectations, but these statements are not guaranteed to occur. For a description of factors that may cause the Company’s actual results or performance to differ from its forward-looking statements, please review the information under the heading “Risk Factors” included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021, and other documents filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

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Investor Relations

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Categories
Business Culture Healthcare

Bayer and Luke Bryan continue partnership to celebrate America’s Farmers and fight hunger with #HeresToTheFarmer campaign

Kroger Joins Campaign; Teams up with Bayer to Launch First-Ever Farm Tour 2022 Sweepstakes, In-Store Displays and More


Bayer Returns to Five-Time Entertainer of the Year’s Annual Farm Tour as Presenting Sponsor; Together with Kroger Asks Fans to Share #HeresToTheFarmer Hashtag on Social Media to Support Feeding America®, the Nation’s Largest Domestic Hunger-Relief Organization

 

WHIPPANY, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Bayer today announced it is renewing its multi-year partnership with five-time entertainer of the year Luke Bryan, joining his 2022 Farm Tour as presenting sponsor and continuing their Here’s to the Farmer campaign celebrating America’s farmers and fighting hunger. New this year, Kroger, America’s largest grocer, joins the campaign offering the first-ever Farm Tour 2022 sweepstakes, giving fans across the country the chance to win a Luke Bryan VIP experience, tickets, swag and more. Together Bayer, Kroger and Luke Bryan are encouraging fans to share the hashtag #HeresToTheFarmer on their social media channels. Now through October 31, 2022, for every share, Bayer will help provide one meal* through the Feeding America network, up to 1 million meals to communities in need.*

 

The son of a peanut farmer from Georgia, Bryan launched his Farm Tour in 2009 to highlight and celebrate the contributions of America’s farmers. The Georgia native will set up stages in the fields of local farmers across six states this September 15-24, with tickets now on sale at LukeBryan.com.

 

“I grew up around farming and know the tough work, passion, and grit you need to be an American farmer,” said Luke Bryan. “They play an incredibly important role in all our lives. That’s why I’m excited to again team up with my friends at Bayer to say ‘Here’s to the Farmer’ and give thanks for the work they do to make sure we all have food on the table, and give back to communities around the country.”

 

In 2015, Bayer partnered with Luke Bryan and launched its campaign to thank farmers and help fight hunger throughout the country.

 

“We are excited to continue our commitment to this important campaign and partnership with Luke Bryan and recognize the hard work and dedication from U.S. farmers to feed America and the world,” said Beth Roden, Senior Vice President and Head of U.S. Communications for Bayer U.S. “#HerestotheFarmer reinforces the vital role that farmers and food banks play in addressing food insecurity by feeding people in need in the U.S. – especially in rural communities. Through Bayer’s vision of Health for All, Hunger for None, and together, with Kroger, we’re striving to raise even more awareness of the critical issue of food insecurity and ensure more Americans have access to healthy food, all while thanking the ones who work so hard to provide for us.”

 

As one of the founding members of Feeding America, the Kroger Family of Companies are proud to collaborate with Bayer and Luke Bryan as they help provide meals to families across the U.S. As part of the #HerestotheFarmer campaign, Kroger will feature in-store signage and the first-ever Farm Tour Sweepstakes. The contest gives fans the chance to win one Grand Prize Luke Bryan VIP experience that includes two VIP tickets to a select Luke Bryan Farm Tour concert, a 3-day/2-night hotel stay, round-trip flights and more. In addition, 100 lucky secondary prize winners will receive Luke Bryan Farm Tour items including branded t-shirts, swag, autographed hats, photos and more.

 

“At Kroger, we believe Fresh starts with farmers. Farmers play a key role in keeping the freshest products on our shelves,” said Dan De La Rosa, Group Vice President, Fresh Merchandising, for Kroger. “That’s why we work with farmers who grow only the best to source locally and bring customers better, fresher options time and again. We’re honored to share our appreciation for farmers during the Luke Bryan Farm Tour, and we applaud Bayer’s support for the Feeding America network of food banks, who help people facing hunger every day. Aligned with Kroger’s commitment to creating a world with Zero Hunger | Zero Waste, we are excited to see Bayer and Luke Bryan shining a light on equitable food access during their #HerestotheFarmer tour.”

 

From now through July 2022, fans can go to www.herestothefarmersweepstakes.com and complete the online entry form by providing their email address. Once registered, they will automatically receive one entry in the sweepstakes. The grand prize winner and secondary prize winners will be selected in July 2022.

 

Since the inception of the #HerestotheFarmer campaign and partnership, nearly 5 million meals have been provided to Feeding America and more than $180,000 has been donated to Feeding America member food banks and local farmers at each of the tour cities.

 

“No one should have to worry about where they will find their next meal, but more than 38 million people, including 12 million children, face hunger in America. We are thankful to Luke Bryan, Bayer and Kroger for raising awareness of this issue and for their commitment to helping neighbors in need,” said Lauren Biedron, vice president of corporate partnerships at Feeding America. “Through the Here’s to the Farmer campaign, we hope people across the country will join together, contribute and help fight hunger in their communities.”

 

To learn more about Bayer’s Here’s To The Farmer campaign visit go.bayer.com/herestothefarmer.

 

Dates and locations for the tour include:

FARM TOUR 2022

9/15 Monroeville, IN – Highland Farms

9/16 Mechanicsburg, OH – SpringFork Farms

9/17 Fowlerville, MI – Kubiak Family Farms

9/22 Murdock, NE – Stock Hay & Grain Farm

9/23 Boone, IA – Ziel Farm

9/24 Eyota, MN – Gar-Lin Dairy

 

For details on show locations and tickets, visit http://www.lukebryan.com/farm-tour.

 

*$1 helps provide at least 10 meals secured by Feeding America® on behalf of local member food banks. From 06/15/2022 to 10/31/2022, Bayer guarantees the financial equivalent of up to 1,000,000 meals ($100,000) in conjunction with the promotion.

 

About Bayer

Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the life science fields of health care and nutrition. Its products and services are designed to help people and the planet thrive by supporting efforts to master the major challenges presented by a growing and aging global population. Bayer is committed to drive sustainable development and generate a positive impact with its businesses. At the same time, the Group aims to increase its earning power and create value through innovation and growth. The Bayer brand stands for trust, reliability and quality throughout the world. In fiscal 2021, the Group employed around 100,000 people and had sales of 44.1 billion euros. R&D expenses before special items amounted to 5.3 billion euros. For more information, go to www.bayer.us or visit us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

 

About Luke Bryan

Since his debut, Bryan has garnered 29 No. 1 hits and has more RIAA certified digital singles than any other Country artist with 68.5 million. His worldwide global streams are 17.2 billion and he has sold nearly 13 million albums. His headline concert tours have played sold-out shows for 12 million fans inclusive of 36 stadium concerts, Farm Tours, Spring Break shows, and seven sold-out ‘Crash My Playa’ destination concert events. He launched his “Raised Up Right Tour” last week. Bryan has won over 50 major music awards including five wins as Entertainer of the Year. His third and most recent Entertainer win was awarded by the Academy of Country Music in 2021. Additional awards include six recognitions as a CMT Artist of the Year, NSAI Artist/Songwriter of the Year, the first-ever recipient of the ACM Album of the Decade Award for Crash My Party, seven CMT Music Awards, five Billboard Music Awards, and four American Music Awards—as well as being named Billboard’s Top Country Artist of the 2010s, the Most Heard Artist of the Decade by Country Aircheck, and the Artist Humanitarian Recipient by the Country Radio Broadcasters last year. Luke, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie just wrapped their fifth season as celebrity judges on ABC’s American Idol.

 

On June 9, Luke kicked off his “Raised Up Right Tour” scheduled to run through October with opening guests Riley Green, Mitchell Tenpenny and DJ Rock. Visit LukeBryan.com, and connect with him on his social channels including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

 

About Feeding America

Feeding America® is the largest hunger-relief organization in the United States. Through a network of more than 200 food banks, 21 statewide food bank associations, and over 60,000 partner agencies, food pantries and meal programs, we helped provide 6.6 billion meals to tens of millions of people in need last year. Feeding America also supports programs that prevent food waste and improve food security among the people we serve; brings attention to the social and systemic barriers that contribute to food insecurity in our nation; and advocates for legislation that protects people from going hungry. Visit www.feedingamerica.org, find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.

 

About Kroger

At The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR), we are Fresh for Everyone™ and dedicated to our Purpose: To Feed the Human Spirit®. We are, across our family of companies, nearly half a million associates who serve over 11 million customers daily through a seamless shopping experience under a variety of banner names. We are committed to creating #ZeroHungerZeroWaste communities by 2025. To learn more about us, visit our newsroom and investor relations site. Visit Kroger on Facebook or follow us on Twitter or Instagram.

Contacts

Nicole Hayes

Bayer U.S.

nicole.hayes@bayer.com
201-421-5268

Brian Leake

Bayer U.S. Crop Science

brian.leake@bayer.com
314-370-3285