Category: Travel & Leisure

Traveling for fun, business and other social activities. Living a travel lifestyle.

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FerTex Properties announces next steps as Vincent Ferrucci takes over as Chief Executive Officer

HAINES CITY, Fla. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — FerTex Properties has superseded its company business plan and three year forecast within its first year. We are honored and remain humble as we begin phase #7 of FerTex Properties.

Phase #7 will begin before the end of 2023. The additional work required will take shape over time and continue to be created together – across all channels, our cleaning partners and the FerTex customer support team, along with Astin’s Handyman Services – between each of us along with the feedback we received from the families we serve.

 

FerTex also announced the appointment of Vincent Ferrucci as Chief Executive Officer.

 

It takes courage to start a business from the ground up, but often the most important ingredients are belief and passion. For Vincent Ferrucci, it was his undeniable passion for traveling and his unique career path in delivering top-notch customer service to millions of customers that led him to creating FerTex Properties.

 

Since opening its doors in 2022, FerTex Properties has become the place to book your next vacation with locations across the U.S., including Florida, Georgia, New Jersey, and Puerto Rico.

 

Ferrucci said creating FerTex Properties was a passion project to fill a gap in his life after retiring from a 25+ year career in uniquely designed companies that all delivered top-notch services, such as Jenny Craig, Sylvan Learning Centers, Metabolic Research Centers, and NY Kids Club & NY Preschool, where he served as CEO until Feb. 2022.

 

As the Top executive of a prestigious preschool, with several locations, 19 to be exact, his dedication, passion and character were put to the test. He had to find creative and innovative ways to keep the business alive, clean, safe, and sustainable, so that their students could continue with their education. He did not fail, and exceeded all expectations.

 

As the tide was turning and the pandemic was no longer the number one priority on everyone’s mind, Vincent was able to comfortably walk away after delivering on his promise to his team of keeping the business alive and all locations opened.

 

We’re seeing unprecedented cultural division and economic trauma for so many – all while navigating through a once in a lifetime pandemic. Vacations only seemed to be a dream for so many and could now become reality for families around the world again. It was important to Vincent that everyone felt welcome, safe and at home when on vacation.

 

Vincent discovered this amazing opportunity and this huge hole in the market place of vacation rentals delivering five star service for its customers. “It was very exciting to discover something new and exhilarating,” Ferrucci said. “If you’re building a business, it takes so much time, effort, money, blood, sweat, and tears, all of it.”

 

So Ferrucci did what he has always done in his career; and that was jump in the trenches with creating phase #1.

 

Our mission is simple – to provide you safe, clean and luxurious accommodation to help lay down the foundation for the vacation of your dreams. Our team works tirelessly to ensure the only thing you need to think about is making memories that will last a lifetime!

 

See you on your next vacation!

 

About FerTex Properties

FerTex Properties was created in 2022 to make your travel accommodation experience painless and pleasant. From our hospitality, affordable pricing, quick response, to our personalized touches during your stay, we will ensure your visit will be a memorable one.

 

Our travels around the world have shown us what 5-star services and accommodations should be, and how to get it on a budget. FerTex Properties’ mission is to create a safe, comfortable and luxurious space for you and your loved ones. No detail is too small. Our budget-friendly homes are carefully chosen, and designed, with one goal-to be the foundation for the vacation of your dreams. No matter the destination, the most important part of any vacation is the memories you will make to last a lifetime.

Contacts

Media:

FerTex Properties

Vincent Ferrucci

Chief Executive Officer, CEO.

vincent@fertexproperties.com

FerTex Properties

https://fertexproperties.com/

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Rivers Casino Philadelphia plans boutique luxury hotel in Fishtown

Waterfront hotel with views of Ben Franklin Bridge to debut by year-end 2023


PHILADELPHIA — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Rivers Casino Philadelphia is “powering up” its hotel plans.

The casino announced today that it will open a 62-suite boutique luxury hotel inside The Battery, the mixed-use lifestyle campus underway on Beach Street in Fishtown.

 

The new casino hotel will be called “Riversuites,” and it promises a high-end experience. The upscale hotel will occupy four dedicated floors of The Battery’s existing adaptive reuse complex, creating a rarity for Philly — a waterfront hotel. The casino could be accepting reservations as early as this fall.

 

Guest suites are cavernous by hotel standards, averaging 854 square feet each, with even larger options up to 2,266 square feet. One-, two- and three-bedroom accommodations are available. Every suite includes a full kitchen. Several apartment-style suites feature patios or bi-level lofts, with sleeping rooms upstairs and living room and kitchen below.

 

Unobstructed views of the Delaware River extend well beyond the Pennsylvania and New Jersey shorelines past the Ben Franklin Bridge. On the street side, running parallel to the river, hotel guests will enjoy one of Philly’s hottest neighborhoods — Fishtown.

 

With Fishtown’s walkable streets and burgeoning cultural and culinary offerings, Riversuites guests will be just steps away from a growing inventory of trendy restaurants, coffee shops, craft brewhouses, distilleries, retail stores, galleries and other recreation.

 

“A hotel addition for Rivers Casino Philadelphia has always been part of the master plan for our Fishtown property,” said Tim Drehkoff, CEO of Rivers Casino and Rush Street Gaming. “The location and grandeur of The Battery allowed us to join a neighboring parcel, already in progress, with historic Philly significance.”

 

In addition to proximity to Fishtown, panoramic views and affiliation with the casino itself, Riversuites will boast several other traditional and unconventional amenities: co-working areas, lobby gathering spaces, a billiards table — and an indoor basketball court.

 

A Conduit Between Philly’s Past and Its Future

The Battery is an architectural stunner designed in Beaux-Arts classical revival style by famed turn-of-the-century Philly architect John Windrim. Windrim’s prolific portfolio also includes The Franklin Institute, the Philadelphia Municipal Court and the provost’s residence at Penn.

 

Formerly the Delaware Power Station, the 11-acre Beach Street complex was commissioned as a PECO power plant in the early 1900s. By the 1950s, it was the utility company’s largest, providing power to nearly half of Philadelphia. Eight 167-foot-tall chimneys will remain as historic architectural elements.

 

Today, The Battery is a $154 million redevelopment initiative currently underway by its Philadelphia-based owner, Lubert-Adler Real Estate Funds. The active phase includes 173 apartments, 135,000 square feet of office space and 100,000 square feet of event space — and now a hotel.

 

“We saw in the old PECO power plant an opportunity to create a spectacular experience on Philadelphia’s waterfront that could be a home for both a residential community as well as an eclectic mix of commercial enterprises that will draw people to an area of the city that has until now been underused,” said Leonard Klehr, vice chairman of Lubert-Adler. “It is very exciting to see our vision for this project come to fruition, with our first residents moving in and Rivers Casino announcing its plans for a beautiful new hotel overlooking the river, and we are thrilled to welcome them to The Battery.”

 

The casino’s 22-acre waterfront property already connects with The Battery via the Delaware Riverwalk by way of picturesque Penn Treaty Park. The two properties are an eight-minute walk or a five-minute ride apart. Rivers will run a complimentary 24/7 shuttle with 24/7 security and will offer 24/7 valet parking.

 

Riversuites will be operated by Rivers Casino Philadelphia, which is owned and operated by Rush Street Gaming and its affiliates. Koo Architecture of Chicago is designing the Riversuites hotel. Strada of Philadelphia is the architect for The Battery.

 

“VIPs and out-of-town guests have long inquired about overnight stays at Rivers Casino Philadelphia, and they’re about to get a penthouse-style option,” said Eric Althaus, general manager of the casino. “We’re thrilled to introduce this entirely unexpected luxury suites collection — that’s exclusive to Rivers Philly.”

 

The Riversuites hotel project represents a $7 million privately funded investment. The new hotel will add more than 40 permanent hospitality jobs to the casino’s existing 1,100-plus workforce. Riversuites at The Battery is expected to open by year-end 2023.

 

ABOUT RIVERS CASINO PHILADELPHIA

Located along the Delaware River waterfront in Fishtown, Rivers Casino Philadelphia features 1,547 slots, 78 table games, 66 hybrid gaming seats, a 28-table poker room and a designated sportsbook area for live sports betting. Rita’s Italian Ice and Dunkin’ are among the popular grab-and-go locations in the casino’s Marketplace. The casino also offers an array of distinctive restaurants and bars — among them are Martorano’s Sicilian Slice, Mian and Jack’s Bar + Grill. Martorano’s Prime, an Italian-American Steakhouse, is coming soon. Guests will also enjoy riverfront views, live performances in The Event Center, free parking, and daily promotions and giveaways. For additional information and current offerings, please visit RiversCasino.com/Philadelphia.

Contacts

MEDIA
Jeff Shurilla

For Rivers Casino Philadelphia

215-764-2376 (cell)

jeff@hornercom.com

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AM Best affirms credit ratings of The Travelers Companies, Inc. and most subsidiaries

OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–#insurance—AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating (FSR) of A++ (Superior) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Ratings (Long-Term ICR) of “aa+” (Superior) of the main subsidiaries of The Travelers Companies, Inc. (TRV) (headquartered in New York, NY) [NYSE: TRV], collectively known as Travelers Group (Travelers). In addition, AM Best has affirmed the FSR of A++ (Superior) and the Long-Term ICRs of “aa+” (Superior) of Travelers Casualty and Surety Company of America (TCSA) (Hartford, CT) and Travelers Insurance Company of Canada (TICC) (Toronto, Ontario, Canada). Concurrently, AM Best has affirmed the FSR of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term ICR of “a-” (Excellent) of First Floridian Auto and Home Insurance Company (First Floridian) (Tampa, FL).

AM Best also has affirmed the Long-Term ICRs and the Long-Term Issue Credit Ratings (Long-Term IR) of “a+” (Excellent) of TRV and its two wholly owned downstream holding companies, Travelers Property Casualty Corp. and Travelers Insurance Group Holdings Inc. (both headquartered in Hartford, CT). All outstanding securities issued by the two downstream holding companies are guaranteed by TRV. At the same time, AM Best has affirmed all other Long-Term IRs and Short-Term Issue Credit Ratings (Short-Term IR) guaranteed by TRV, as well as TRV’s indicative Long-Term IRs. The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.

 

Lastly, AM Best has revised the outlook to positive from stable for the Long-Term ICR and affirmed the FSR of A (Excellent) and the Long-Term ICR of “a” (Excellent) of The Dominion of Canada General Insurance Company (Dominion) (Toronto, Ontario, Canada). The outlook of the FSR is stable.

 

The ratings of Travelers reflect the group’s balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as strongest, as well as its very strong operating performance, favorable business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management (ERM).

 

Travelers’ risk-adjusted capitalization is strongly supportive of the group’s ratings and exceeds the threshold for the strongest assessment level by a wide margin, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR). The assessment of Travelers’ balance sheet strength reflects its strong loss reserve position, the benefits derived from the conservative investment portfolio, the use of a comprehensive reinsurance program, which utilizes high quality reinsurance partners, and the additional financial flexibility available through its ultimate parent, TRV.

 

Travelers’ very strong operating performance reflects consistently profitable results driven by strong underwriting and investment results. Travelers’ has reported positive underwriting income in each of the most recent 10 years.

 

Travelers is the second largest commercial lines insurer in the United States based on 2022 direct premiums written and one of the top 10 largest U.S. personal lines insurers. Overall, Travelers is the sixth largest property/casualty (P/C) writer in the United States. Travelers maintains a broad spread of risk in that it offers a wide array of P/C coverages spread geographically in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Canada, England, Ireland, Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the Northern Mariana Islands.

 

The ratings of TCSA reflect its balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as strongest, as well as its very strong operating performance, favorable business profile and appropriate ERM.

 

The ratings of TICC reflect its balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as strongest, as well as its strong operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate ERM. The ratings also reflect the implicit support it receives from its ultimate parent, TRV.

 

The ratings of First Floridian reflect its balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as very strong, as well as its marginal operating performance, limited business profile and appropriate ERM. The ratings also reflect the implicit support it receives from its ultimate parent, TRV.

 

The ratings of Dominion reflect its balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as strongest, as well as its marginal operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate ERM. The ratings also reflect the implicit support it receives from its ultimate parent, TRV. The positive outlook on Dominion’s Long-Term ICR reflects the company’s profitable operating performance in recent periods, as evidenced by positive net income in each of the most recent three years with loss ratios that compare favorably with those of the industry. Results have been influenced by favorable underwriting performance, as reflected by a five-year average combined ratio below 100, relatively in line with industry peers.

 

The ratings of TRV and its two wholly owned downstream holding companies are reflective of its modest financial leverage ratios, strong coverage ratios, ample liquidity and overall financial flexibility.

 

A complete listing of The Travelers Companies, Inc.’s FSRs, Long-Term ICRs and Long- and Short-Term IRs also is available.

 

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 © 2023 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Contacts

Elizabeth Blamble
Senior Financial Analyst
+1 908 882 1661
elizabeth.blamble@ambest.com

Christopher Sharkey
Associate Director, Public Relations
+1 908 882 2310
christopher.sharkey@ambest.com

Michael Lagomarsino, CFA, FRM
Senior Director
+1 908 882 1993
michael.lagomarsino@ambest.com

Al Slavin
Senior Public Relations Specialist
+1 908 882 2318
al.slavin@ambest.com

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Mercer County gets $175,000 grant for Johnson Trolley Trail study

TRENTON, N.J. — Mercer County has been awarded a $175,000 grant from the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC) for a Johnson Trolley Trail Corridor study, County Executive Brian M. Hughes recently announced.

The County will develop an alignment for the Johnson Trolley Trail. This identified Circuit Trails network component provides enhanced connections from the City of Trenton through Ewing and Lawrence townships, and the Municipality of Princeton.

The project is the largest among the six selected in New Jersey by the DVRPC and will be funded through the Transportation and Community Development Initiative (TCDI) grant program.

“I thank the DVRPC for this generous grant award to help Mercer County, the Lawrence Hopewell Trail, and our municipal partners advance this proposed bicycle and pedestrian trail link,” said Mr. Hughes. “The Johnson Trolley Trail Corridor would benefit our communities by promoting economic opportunity, transportation, recreation, and health in a climate-friendly way.”

“We are very grateful to the DVRPC, Mercer County, the City of Trenton, Ewing and Lawrence townships, and the Municipality of Princeton as partners in this endeavor,” said Lawrence Hopewell Trail Corporation Chair David Sandahl. “Working together, we will make the vision of reconnecting our communities a reality.”

The Johnson Trolley, named after Albert Johnson, a Kentucky native who operated a streetcar company in Cleveland and then acquired franchises in New Jersey among other states, began operating in 1902 and in its peak year of 1921, carried 1.6 million fares. A one-way trip between Princeton and Trenton took 35 minutes. The trolley’s heyday was short-lived, cut short by the automobile. The last passengers traveled the line in 1940. Today, the Lawrence Hopewell Trail and many other trails make use of former rail lines, offering hikers and bikers a calmer alternative to the highway.

Created by DVRPC, TCDI grants utilize federal transportation funds to support planning initiatives that further our region’s progress toward DVRPC’s vision for an equitable, resilient, and sustainable region. Since its beginning in 2002, the TCDI program has awarded over 300 grants, invested over $22 million, and leveraged over $250 million to municipal and county partners.

“The TCDI program furthers local efforts to improve the quality of life for communities,” said Ariella Maron, Executive Director, DVRPC.

“This year’s projects seek to expand access to existing public transit, business centers, and recreational areas; make streets safer for all users, including pedestrians and cyclists; contribute to healthier neighborhoods by encouraging active transportation and decreasing congestion; and help to reduce our region’s carbon footprint.”

About the Transportation and Community Development Initiative

Initiated in 2002, TCDI is a competitive grant opportunity that provides funds to local planning initiatives that further progress towards the region’s long-range plan, Connections 2050: Plan for Greater Philadelphia. TCDI focuses on linking land use, transportation, and economic development by improving community quality of life; enhancing the existing transportation infrastructure access; promoting and encouraging the use of transit, bike, and pedestrian transportation modes; building municipal capacity; and protecting our environment. To date, the TCDI program has invested over $22 million and leveraged over $250 million to municipal and county partners.

About DVRPC

DVRPC is the federally designated Metropolitan Planning Organization for the bi-state, nine-county Greater Philadelphia region. It includes Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties in Pennsylvania; and Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, and Mercer counties in New Jersey.

The Connections 2050 Long-Range Plan vision is an equitable, resilient, and sustainable Greater Philadelphia Region that: preserves and restores the natural environment; develops inclusive, healthy, and walkable communities; grows an innovative and connected economy with broadly shared prosperity; and maintains a safe, multimodal transportation network that serves everyone. Learn more at www.dvrpc.org.

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Mercer Great Western Bikeway plans new projects at recent PIC meeting

Mercer County planned a Public Information Center (PIC) to provide local residents and businesses in Hopewell, with information on the Mercer County Great Western Bikeway (GWB) project for June 27.

The project comes under the Regional Transportation Alternatives Program TAP-R-2017-Mercer County Great Western Bikeway, and traverses Hopewell Township, Pennington, Lawrence and Ewing.

The purpose of the meeting was to provide an opportunity for input on the project (as a follow up to a Virtual PIC held on March 9, 2022). The PIC was planned for in person at Hopewell Township Municipal Building Auditorium, 201 Washington Crossing-Pennington Road in Titusville, NJ Tues., June 27, 2023 from 6 to 8 p.m.  Attendants had an opportunity to review exhibits, ask questions, and discuss any concerns with County representatives and their consultant. Property owners with rental units are advised that tenants were also invited and encouraged to participate. For those unable to participate or want to provide comments after the meeting, they can visit the County’s website  for information about the project and provide comments by July 11, 2023.

The Great Western Bikeway (GWB) will be the first new link in a planned network of dedicated bicycle facilities throughout Mercer County. The primary route, Segment 1, will provide a continuous 10-mile bicycle route running east-west, predominantly along County Route (CR) 546 within Hopewell Township, Pennington Borough, and Lawrence Township and link between two branches of the D&R Canal State Park Trail: at Washington Crossing State Park to the west and Bakers Basin Road to the east. Two secondary routes will link Ewing Township to the south (Segment 2, CR 611) and Pennington Borough’s downtown district to the north (Segment 3, CR 640). Design and Construction costs are funded by federal funds administered through NJDOT Local Aid Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP).

Proposed project limits and improvements

• On-road bicycle lanes for a majority of the 14-mile route.

• In several locations where exclusive bicycle lanes cannot be provided, the bicycle facility will continue with either shared lanes or an off-road shared-use path.

• High visibility crossings with Rapid Rectangular Flashing Beacons (RRFBs).

Cultural resources

Federal and State regulations pertaining to the protection of cultural resources, referred to as the Section 106 and the NJ Register of Historic Places Act processes, require Mercer County and NJDOT to consider the effect of proposed projects upon cultural resources listed on, or eligible for listing on, the NJ and National Registers of Historic Places. These processes require coordination between the NJDOT and the NJ Historic Preservation Office, along with other appropriate consulting and interested parties. The project is located within 3 historic districts – Washington Crossing State Park Historic District, Lawrence Township Historic District, and Bound Book (Reading) Railroad Historic District – and there are several other cultural resource sites along the corridor. An assessment of project effects will be provided for all historic districts and any other eligible resources that are identified within the project area.

Anticipated project schedule

Design Phase Completed: Summer 2024; Construction Start: Fall 2024

For further information, please contact: Matthew Zochowski, PP/AICP, Senior Planner Mercer County • Department of Planning 640 South Broad Street P.O. Box 8068 Trenton, NJ 08650 P: 609-989-6985 E: mzochowski@mercercounty.orghttps://www.mercercounty.org/home/showdocument?id=22941

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Temporary Protected Status designations for El Salvador, Honduras, Nepal and Nicaragua reinstated and extended for 18 months

Current Beneficiaries Must Re-register to Maintain Their Status After June 30, 2024

WASHINGTON — The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently posted Federal Register notices extending the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designations of El Salvador, Honduras, Nepal, and Nicaragua for 18 months.

 

These notices follow the decision of Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas, announced June 13, 2023, to rescind the 2017 and 2018 terminations of these designations and extend the reinstated designations for 18 months.

 

Secretary Mayorkas decided to extend TPS after consulting with interagency partners and carefully considering the ongoing conditions in El Salvador, Honduras, Nepal, and Nicaragua. As always, DHS closely monitors conditions around the world to assess whether new TPS designations are warranted.

 

TPS beneficiaries under the four designations must re-register to maintain their TPS throughout the 18-month extension. DHS previously extended the validity of TPS-related documentation for current beneficiaries through June 30, 2024, to ensure continued compliance with court orders in the litigation challenging the now-rescinded termination decisions. The new notices do not affect that action. Re-registration is limited to individuals who previously registered for and were granted TPS under the prior designations of El Salvador, Honduras, Nepal and Nicaragua.

 

Individuals who arrived in the United States after the continuous residence dates for these designations are not eligible for TPS. The respective continuous residence dates are Feb. 13, 2001, for El Salvador; Dec. 30, 1998, for Honduras; June 24, 2015, for Nepal; and Dec. 30, 1998, for Nicaragua.

 

El Salvador
DHS is extending the designation of El Salvador for TPS for 18 months, from Sept. 10, 2023, through March 9, 2025. Additionally, DHS considers that the designation of El Salvador for TPS has been automatically extended in 6-month increments since March 9, 2018, under INA § 244(b)(3)(C). The extension allows approximately 239,000 current TPS beneficiaries to re-register to retain TPS through March 9, 2025, if they otherwise continue to meet the eligibility requirements for TPS. Existing TPS beneficiaries who wish to extend their status through March 9, 2025, must re-register during the 60-day re-registration period from July 12, 2023, through Sept. 10, 2023.

 

Honduras
DHS is extending the designation of Honduras for TPS for 18 months, from January 6, 2024, through July 5, 2025. DHS considers that the designation of Honduras for TPS has been automatically extended in 6-month increments since July 5, 2018, under INA § 244(b)(3)(C). The extension allows approximately 76,000 existing TPS beneficiaries to re-register to retain TPS through July 5, 2025, if they otherwise continue to meet the eligibility requirements for TPS. Existing TPS beneficiaries who wish to extend their status through July 5, 2025, must re-register during the 60-day re-registration period from Nov. 6, 2023, through Jan. 5, 2024.

 

Nepal
DHS is extending the designation of Nepal for TPS for 18 months, from Dec. 25, 2023, through June 24, 2025. DHS considers that the designation of Nepal for TPS has been automatically extended in 6-month increments since June 24, 2018, under INA § 244(b)(3)(C). The extension allows approximately 14,500 existing TPS beneficiaries to re-register to retain TPS through June 24, 2025, if they otherwise continue to meet the eligibility requirements for TPS. Existing TPS beneficiaries who wish to extend their status through June 24, 2025, must re-register during the 60-day re-registration period from Oct. 24, 2023, through Dec. 23, 2023.

 

Nicaragua
DHS is extending the designation of Nicaragua for TPS for 18 months, from Jan. 6, 2024, through July 5, 2025. Additionally, DHS considers that the designation of Nicaragua for TPS has been automatically extended in 6-month increments since Jan. 5, 2018, under INA § 244(b)(3)(C). The extension allows approximately 4,000 current TPS beneficiaries to re-register to retain TPS through July 5, 2025, if they otherwise continue to meet the eligibility requirements for TPS. Existing TPS beneficiaries who wish to extend their status through July 5, 2025, must re-register during the 60-day re-registration period from Nov. 6, 2023, through Jan. 5, 2024.

 

The rescission of the terminations for the designations of these four countries for TPS is effective as of June 9, 2023

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Curator achieves 100-member milestone, cementing position as a leading partner for independent hotels & resorts

BETHESDA, Md. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Curator Hotel & Resort Collection (Curator) announced that it has surpassed 100 member hotels and resorts. The milestone comes just two years after the company’s launch, and solidifies Curator’s position as a trusted partner for independent hotels and resorts in the hospitality industry.

 

“We are thrilled to have reached this major milestone,” said Jennifer Barnwell, President of Curator Hotel & Resort Collection. “It is a testament to the wide array of benefits and services Curator provides to our independent hotel and resort members.”

 

Curator offers innovative solutions to its members, positioning them to cater to travelers seeking unique lodging options while reducing operating expenses. Curator’s comprehensive suite of services and offerings include:

 

  • Strategic contracts with leading industry providers enable its members to reduce operating expenses and compete with larger brands and operators
  • Innovative technology solutions that have been individually curated and tested by Curator, helping members stay ahead of the curve, improve productivity and deliver a better guest experience
  • Support for marketing, sales, and revenue management that assists its members in increasing market share and maximizing revenue
  • Access to unique travel experiences that can be offered to guests, helping to differentiate member hotels and resorts from the competition

 

“We are passionate about helping our members create memorable experiences for their guests,” said Barnwell. “We believe that independent hotels and resorts offer a unique and valuable experience, and we are committed to supporting and promoting these properties to travelers worldwide.”

 

The five newest members of Curator are:

Bungalow Hotel and Wave Resort (Long Branch, New Jersey) – Located among the bustling, vibrant culture of Pier Village in Long Branch, New Jersey, the 24-room Bungalow Hotel is an art-centric boutique hotel with an art gallery featuring work from local artists, 1,000 square feet of event space, and a unique cocktail lounge. Bungalow’s sister property, Wave Resort is an elevated boutique hotel overlooking the stunning coastline of Long Branch and features 67 modern guest rooms all equipped with private balconies, 7,000 square feet of event space, and three distinct dining experiences. Guests of both properties have exclusive access to an outdoor heated pool with a swim-up bar, a modern fitness center, oceanfront lounge chairs and umbrellas, and a children’s playroom.

 

Los Angeles Athletic Club Hotel (Los Angeles, California) – Founded in 1880 as the first private club in Los Angeles, the Los Angeles Athletic Club offers five floors of athletic and wellness facilities, three restaurants and bars, co-working spaces and an array of member-only events. The 90,000 square feet of fitness facilities include racquetball, squash and handball courts, a 25-yard indoor lap pool, basketball court and over 20 complimentary group fitness classes each week. The Club has 72 guestrooms and suites located on the top three floors of its historic building, allowing hotel guests access to member amenities during their stay in this historic building in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles.

 

Sierra Nevada Resort, an Outbound Hotel (Mammoth Lakes, California) – Sierra Nevada Resort is a living legend that continues to inspire. Guests can step into an experience where newly refreshed historic charm meets serenity, all centrally located on a six-acre respite just south of the main thoroughfare of downtown, with convenient access to Mammoth Mountain Ski Area, Mammoth Lakes Hiking Trails, the Tioga Pass entrance to Yosemite National Park, and the Bishop Airport. Sierra Nevada Resort offers the newest accommodations and more amenities than any other resort in the region, including Black Tie Ski Rentals, fire pits, pet-friendly rooms upon request, and more.

 

The Virginian Lodge, an Outbound Hotel (Jackson, Wyoming) – Travelers, drifters, locals, and adventure seekers alike can stay at The Virginian Lodge to have fun and build memories. The Virginian’s amenities create the perfect balance between adventure-filled days in Jackson Hole and relaxing amidst the mountain scenery with two hot tubs, seven built-in fire pits, an all-season pool, pet-friendly rooms, and more. The Virginian Lodge also offers interactive programs and curated activities such as fireside s’mores and chicly decorated pop-up igloos in the winter, wine tastings and musical concerts in the summer in addition to yoga classes, outdoor workshops, picnic kits and a bike-in themed movie series.

 

For more information on Curator Hotel & Resort Collection, visit www.curatorhotelsandresorts.com.

 

About Curator Hotel & Resort Collection

Curator Hotel & Resort Collection is a distinct collection of small brands and independent lifestyle hotels and resorts worldwide, founded by Pebblebrook Hotel Trust and a group of industry-leading hotel operators. Curator provides lifestyle hotels access to a wide breadth of program offerings to enhance the guest experience, improve employee engagement, and create value while allowing their members the freedom to retain what makes their hotels unique. It offers the benefits of associating with other unique lifestyle hotels and brands while participating in best-in-class operating agreements, services, reporting, and technology. In addition to Pebblebrook, the founding members of Curator include Davidson Hospitality Group, Noble House Hotels & Resorts, Provenance, Sage Hospitality Group, Springboard Hospitality, and Viceroy Hotels & Resorts. For more information, visit www.curatorhotelsandresorts.com and follow us at @CuratorHotelsResorts.

Contacts

Media Inquiries:
Melanie Neff 305-677-3904 x23 (curatorpr@ciicpr.com)

For independent lifestyle owners and operators interested in joining Curator:
Jennifer Barnwell 240-507-1338 (jbarnwell@curatorhotelsandresorts.com)

Jenn Parks 240-660-9483 (jparks@curatorhotelsandresorts.com)

For companies and service providers interested in partnering with Curator:
Brent Hayhurst 240-660-9485(bhayhurst@curatorhotelsandresorts.com)

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Thompson Square, Josh Gracin set to ignite Mercer County Park Festival Grounds in July

Mercer County, get ready for an unforgettable evening of country music as award-winning duo Thompson Square and the sensational Josh Gracin grace the stage at Mercer County Park Festival Grounds July 14. Presented by Mercer County Park Commission and County Executive Brian M. Hughes, this highly anticipated concert promises to be a thrill for fans of all ages.

 

Thompson Square, husband and wife duo Keifer and Shawna Thompson, have been captivating audiences worldwide with their incredible harmonies and captivating performances. With hit singles like “Are You Gonna Kiss Me or Not,” “If I Didn’t Have You,” and “Glass,” Thompson Square has become a prominent name on the country music scene. Their infectious energy and undeniable talent make them a must-see act for any country music enthusiast.

Joining Thompson Square on stage is the exceptional Josh Gracin, who shot to stardom as a finalist on the popular reality show “American Idol.” Since then, Gracin has released chart-topping hits such as “Nothin’ to Lose,” “Stay with Me (Brass Bed),” and “We Weren’t Crazy.” Known for his powerful vocals and heartfelt lyrics, Gracin continues to captivate audiences with his remarkable talent and stage presence.

Tickets for the Thompson Square and Josh Gracin concert at Mercer County Park Festival Grounds on July 14 are now available for purchase. Fans are encouraged to secure their tickets early for the special early-bird ticket price available until July 1. Tickets are $15 now and will go up to $25 after July 1. For ticketing information please visit Community Pass Catalog (capturepoint.com)

The Mercer County Park Festival Grounds will provide the perfect backdrop for this memorable event. Located in the heart of Mercer County, this picturesque outdoor venue offers a spacious and vibrant atmosphere, ensuring an incredible experience for concert-goers.

“When it comes to our concert series, we’ve built a summer-long series spanning a  range of genres, from rock to country to blues and funk, a lineup as diverse as our park patrons and visitors,” said Aaron T. Watson, Park Commission Executive Director. “In addition to our eclectic musical events, I encourage everyone to get outside and take advantage of the many other exciting things our parks have to offer.”

The venue’s state-of-the-art sound system and cutting-edge production will enhance the performances of Thompson Square and Josh Gracin, making it a night to remember. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness the magic of Thompson Square and Josh Gracin as they bring their exceptional talent and electrifying performances to Mercer County. Join us on July 14 for an unforgettable night of country music at Mercer County Park Festival Grounds!

 

About Thompson Square: Thompson Square is an award-winning country music duo composed of Keifer and Shawna Thompson. Known for their signature harmonies and heartfelt lyrics, Thompson Square has achieved chart-topping success with hits like “Are You Gonna Kiss Me or Not” and “If I Didn’t Have You.” With their captivating performances, they continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

About Josh Gracin: Josh Gracin is a talented country music artist who gained recognition as a finalist on “American Idol.” With his powerful vocals and compelling storytelling, Gracin has released several successful singles, including “Nothin’ to Lose” and “Stay with Me (Brass Bed).” His dynamic performances have garnered him a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.

About Mercer County Park Festival Grounds: Mercer County Park Festival Grounds is a premier outdoor venue located in Mercer County, known for hosting a variety of events and concerts. With its picturesque setting and top-notch facilities, the park offers an exceptional experience for both artists and attendees.

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5 Things to elevate your festival experience

Festival season has arrived! Whether you are camping, day-tripping or staying in a hotel, this roundup of five products will have you the “pro” of your festival experience.

 

1. bearback Lotion Roller (or sunscreen!)

Price: Starting at $24.97 – getbearback.com

 

Affiliate: Amazon

 

  • Makes it easy to apply lotion, sunscreen, and prescriptions in hard to reach spots
  • Use on backs, legs–anywhere!
  • Built with a non-slip grip
  • Ergonomic curve provides the perfect amount of pressure
  • Foldable design is made for travel and easy storage
  • Extends to 17” from 9.5”
  • Comes with 2 washable and reusable foam rollers
  • 2,600+ reviews on Amazon!

 

 

2. Alicia Adams Alpaca Maui Wrap

Price: $295 – aliciaadamsalpaca.com

 

 

  • The Maui Wrap functions as a wrap, a scarf, a stole, or even a shawl
  • The feather-weight baby alpaca and silk blend makes it the perfect accessory for warmer months and years round
  • 70% baby alpaca
  • 30% silk

 

 

3. Blithe Cosmetics – Pressed Serum & Vital Treatment   

Price: Starting at $34 – blithecosmetic.com

Affiliate: Skimlinks & ShareASale (ID# 134544)

 

 

  • Multi-function skincare so you need less products to cover your entire routine!
  • 5 out of 7 steps to your skincare routine are covered with this product!
    • Takes care of everything except for cleanser and sunscreen!
  • All you’ll need is the Vital Treatment & Pressed Serum!
  • Vital Treatment:
    • Serves as your essence, toner, and serum
    • Incredibly hydrating
    • No sticky residue
    • Available in 4 formulations to fit your skin type
  • Pressed Serum:
    • Serves as a serum, eye cream, and moisturizer
    • Absorbs quickly & deeply
    • Helps fine lines & anti-aging
    • Controls pores
    • Available in four formulations to target your skin concerns
  • Available in travel sizes!

 

  

4. SpaLife Hydrocolloid Pimple Patches

Price: Starting at $10.99 – spalifebeauty.com

Affiliate: Amazon, Walmart

 

 

  • HEALS: Visibly absorbs impurities, Protects, results in 6-10 hours.
  • HOW TO USE: Apply to clean, dry clean. Make sure the patch covers the spot completely, Leave on overnight then remove the patch and discard.
  • WAKE UP FEELING CONFIDENT: Helps shrink the look of whiteheads & on-the-surface pimples.
  • FORMULA: Hydrocolloid formula visibly absorbs impurities—so you know it’s working!

 

 

5. TableTopics To-go Sets

Price: $9 – tabletopics.com

Affiliate: Available on Amazon (4.5 Stars, 10,000+ Reviews), Skimlinks, Barnes & Noble, Dillard’s

 

 

  • Travel: These fabulous travel-related questions are sure to entertain — whether in the air or on the water or at the beach — wherever your journeys take you. This set is loaded with great questions that will have you dreaming about traveling the world and excited about exploring things closer to home.
  • Not a Chance: This set of amusing questions will test limits, define boundaries, and get right to the heart of those things that make you and your friends say “Oh no! Not a chance!”
  • Dating: Break the ice or take things to a new level. Either way, these questions are designed to help take the stress out of those “getting to know you” conversations.
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Avena dominates to earn first career win at favorite fishing stage five on Cayuga Lake presented by ATG by Wrangler

New Jersey Pro Catches Five Smallmouth Weighing 28 Pounds, 10 Ounces to Top Win by 2-Pound Margin and Earn Top Payout of $100,000


UNION SPRINGS, N.Y. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — It was an emotional afternoon for Vineland, New Jersey pro Adrian Avena. After numerous seasons of watching his roommates and travel partners earn multiple wins and championship victories, the 12-year veteran finally earned his own red trophy. Avena caught eight scorable smallmouth bass Sunday, with his best five weighing 28 pounds, 10 ounces to win the Major League Fishing (MLF) Bass Pro Tour Favorite Fishing Stage Five on Cayuga Lake Presented by ATG by Wrangler and earn the top payout of $100,000.

 

Link to Hi-Res Photo of Favorite Fishing Stage Five at Cayuga Lake Winner Adrian Avena
Link to HD Video – Fish-Catch Highlights of Championship Round on Cayuga Lake
Link to Photo Gallery of Adrian Avena’s Championship Round Afternoon Highlights

 

Avena’s two-day Knockout and Championship Round total of 10 bass weighing 58 pounds even earned him the victory by a 2-pound margin over second-place finisher Spencer Shuffield of Hot Springs, Arkansas, who finished with a two-day total of 10 bass weighing 56 pounds even, good for $45,000.

 

Over his four days of competition, Avena weighed in 20 smallmouth bass totaling 105 pounds even. Also breaking the 100-pound mark over four days were five other pros – Shuffield (106-10), Jacob Wheeler (100-8), Alton Jones Jr. (102-4), Matt Becker (102-0) and Kevin VanDam (102-2).

 

It was an incredible week of fishing that will likely be looked back on as the greatest smallmouth event in Bass Pro Tour history.

 

“You have no idea what this win means to me,” Avena said on stage in his post-game interview. “I travel and room with three of the best guys in the world, and I ain’t going to say that I got tired of them winning all the time, but man, it was starting to take a toll on me.

 

“I love them guys, and when you surround yourself with a house full of guys that are straight hammers it rubs off a little bit. But watching them boys win trophy after trophy… I’m just so glad that now I’ve got mine.”

 

Throughout the week Avena targeted bedding smallmouth, using a flogger to locate the bass and then drop-shotting a Berkley PowerBait MaxScent Flat Worm or a 4-inch Berkley Gulp! Alive Minnow. He threw the setup on an Abu Garcia Fantasista rod with a Abu Garcia Revo Rocket spinning reel.

 

“The Gulp minnow was the deal, but the key was the chartreuse top,” Avena said. “The chartreuse color was a big player this week. Also, I used a very small leader – getting my bait close to the bottom really mimicked those perch that were getting into their beds.

 

“Another big key was fishing deeper than everyone else,” Avena continued. “After you’d hook a smallmouth they’d shoot straight up, so I had to have a spinning reel setup with a very fast gear ratio. I used the Revos all week.”

 

Despite starting the day with a lead, Avena said that he was never comfortable throughout the final day of competition.

 

“I told myself this morning that I was not stopping on a fish that was under 5½ pounds, as I knew they wouldn’t win this tournament,” Avena said. “This lake is chock full of 4-pounders, and I passed up on so many of them today because I knew they wouldn’t help. I didn’t catch a whole lot of bass today, but I caught the right ones that I needed.

 

“I have so many people to thank, that have believed in me from the start, and this just feels really good to be able to do this for them,” Avena went on to say. “My dad has a weak heart, and he’s always telling me, ‘Adrian, I want to see you win a tournament before I pass away.’ Well, pop, we got it done this week. I’m still shaking, and I am freaking stoked!”

 

The final 10 pros from the Favorite Fishing Stage Five at Cayuga Lake Presented by ATG by Wrangler finished:

1st: Adrian Avena, Vineland, N.J., 10 bass, 58-0, $100,000

2nd: Spencer Shuffield, Hot Springs, Ark., 10 bass, 56-0, $45,000

3rd: Dakota Ebare, Brookeland, Texas, 10 bass, 55-2, $38,000

4th: Jacob Wheeler, Harrison, Tenn., 10 bass, 54-0, $32,000

5th: Alton Jones Jr., Waco, Texas, 10 bass, 53-8, $30,000

6th: Mark Rose, Wynne, Ark., 10 bass, 52-4, $26,000

7th: Matt Becker, Ten Mile, Tenn., 10 bass, 52-0, $23,000

8th: David Dudley, Lynchburg, Va., 10 bass, 51-15, $21,000

9th: Takahiro Omori, Tokyo, Japan, 10 bass, 51-4, $19,000

10th: Kevin VanDam, Kalamazoo, Mich., 10 bass, 49-11, $16,000

 

Full results for the entire field can be found at MajorLeagueFishing.com.

 

Overall, there were 97 scorable bass totaling 459 pounds even weighed by the 10 pros on Sunday.

 

Dakota Ebare earned Sunday’s Championship Round $1,000 Berkley Big Bass award with a 6-pound, 7-ounce smallmouth that bit in Period 1. Wheeler earned the $3,000 Berkley Big Bass award for the overall largest bass of the event with his 7-pound, 5-ounce smallmouth that he weighed during Saturday’s Knockout Round of competition.

 

After five events in the Bass Pro Tour regular season, Ott DeFoe of Blaine, Tennessee, remains the leader in the 2023 Bass Pro Tour Bally Bet Angler of the Year (AOY) standings with 360 points. Pro Dakota Ebare of Brookeland, Texas, sits in second place with 332 points, while Bass Pro Tour Rookie Matt Becker of Ten Mile, Tennessee, rounds out the top three with 316.5 points. Bally Bet will award $100,000 to the 2023 Bass Pro Tour Bally Bet Angler of the Year winner.

 

The next regular season Bass Pro Tour event will take place later this month – the General Tire Stage Six at Lake St. Clair Presented by John Deere Utility Vehicles, June 24-29, at Lake St. Clair in Harrison Township, Michigan.

 

The Favorite Fishing Stage Five at Cayuga Lake Presented by ATG by Wrangler featured pros competing using the MLF catch, weigh, immediate-release format, with each angler’s five (5) heaviest bass per day tallied as their day’s weight. Anglers strive to catch their heaviest five fish each day, while also feeling the pressure and intensity of the live scoring SCORETRACKER® leaderboard. Minimum weights are determined individually for each competition waters that the Bass Pro Tour visits, based on the productivity, bass population and anticipated average size of fish in each fishery.

 

The six-day bass-fishing event showcased 80 of the top professional anglers in the world, competing for a purse of more than $805,000, including a top payout of $100,000 and valuable Angler of the Year (AOY) points in hopes of qualifying for the General Tire Heavy Hitters All-Star event and REDCREST 2024, the Bass Pro Tour championship.

 

Television coverage of the Favorite Fishing Stage Five at Cayuga Lake Presented by ATG by Wrangler will air as two, two-hour episodes starting at 7 a.m. ET, on Saturday, Oct. 21 and Saturday, Oct. 28 on the Discovery Channel. New MLF episodes premiere each Saturday morning on Discovery, with re-airings on the Outdoor Channel.

 

Proud sponsors of the 2023 MLF Bass Pro Tour include: 13 Fishing, Abu Garcia, Ark Fishing, ATG + Wrangler, B&W Trailer Hitches, Bally Bet, Bass Cat Boats, Bass Pro Shops, Berkley, Black Rifle Coffee, Daiwa, Epic Baits, Favorite Fishing, Ferguson, Fox Rent A Car, General Tire, Grundéns, Humminbird, Lowrance, Minn Kota, Mercury, Mossy Oak, Onyx, Power-Pole, Rapala, Star tron, T-H Marine, TORO, Toyota, U.S. Air Force, Yellowstone Bourbon, Yo-Zuri and Zoom Baits.

 

For complete details and updated information on Major League Fishing and the Bass Pro Tour, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF’s social media outlets at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

 

About Major League Fishing

Major League Fishing (MLF) is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, producing more than 250 events annually at some of the most prestigious fisheries in the world, while broadcasting to America’s living rooms on CBS, the Discovery Channel, the Outdoor Channel, CBS Sports Network, the World Fishing Network and on-demand on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV). Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, the MLF roster of bass anglers includes the world’s top pros and more than 30,000 competitors in all 50 states and 13 countries. Since its founding in 2011, MLF has advanced the sport of competitive fishing through its premier television broadcasts and livestreams and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for bass through research, education, fisheries enhancement and fish care.

Contacts

JOE OPAGER
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

p: 218.434.0748

e: joe.opager@majorleaguefishing.com
www.majorleaguefishing.com