Tag: Business

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AM Best to host IMCA/AM Best marketing leader lunch with AXIS’ Joe Cohen

OLDWICK, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — #insurance — AM Best will host a joint presentation with the Insurance Marketing & Communications Association (IMCA) on Friday, Dec. 8, 2023, at 12 p.m. EST.

 

In this live, interactive roundtable discussion, Joe Cohen, chief marketing and communications officer at AXIS, will discuss:

  • Rebranding strategies
  • Unlocking the value of corporate citizenship
  • Building a strong employer branding initiative
  • How marketers can help their organizations expand into new and adjacent markets
  • Ways to infuse diversity and inclusion into an organization’s culture
  • Uncovering the keys to success in digital marketing.

 

Panelists include:

  • Joe Cohen, chief marketing and communications officer, AXIS
  • Dave Evans, senior associate, Aartrijk, and former IMCA Board member
  • Lori Chordas, senior associate editor, AM Best TV

 

Attendees can submit questions during registration or by emailing webinars@ambest.com. The event will be streamed in video and audio formats, and playback will be available to registered viewers shortly after the event.

 

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 Company, Inc. and/or its affiliates.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Contacts

Lee McDonald
Senior Vice President, Publication & News Services
+1 908 882 2102
lee.mcdonald@ambest.com

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Business Culture Lifestyle Technology

The Best of the Best: Align named Managed Service Provider of the year by Channel Futures in its annual special awards

NEW YORK — (BUSINESS WIRE) — #ITservices—Align, the premier global provider of technology infrastructure solutions and Managed IT Services, announces on Friday that it has been named 2023 Managed Service Provider of the year by Channel Futures, the global industry authority in managed services.

 

Align became eligible for the award by ranking 60th in the 2023 Channel Futures MSP 501. While the general Channel Futures MSP award is based primarily on annual sales, recurring revenue, and profit margins, the MSP of the Year Award is given to a firm that demonstrate business model innovation and excellence in business efficiency and agility in the face of an evolving market.

 

The awards go to the industry’s high-performance and high-achieving MSPs that not only place prominently on the Channel Futures MSP 501 list but go above and beyond when it comes to customer expertise, employee satisfaction, relationships with vendors and suppliers, and commitment to improving the MSP industry. While the Channel Futures MSP 501 rankings are determined by a complex methodology that factors in many business metrics, the MSP of the Year award goes beyond, looking for MSPs that truly set themselves apart from all others.

 

 

The finalists for this year’s MSP of the Year Award include remarkable organizations and executives who have made a significant impact on the managed services landscape. Among other factors, Align was recognized for their ability to maintain a keen understanding of clients’ needs, and provide industry specific guidance on due diligence standards and regulatory requirements set forth by the SEC.

 

Channel Futures employs a rigorous methodology to compile the MSP 501 rankings, and the MSP of the Year Award delves even deeper, focusing on those who go the extra mile to elevate the industry.

 

Applications for the Special Awards undergo an initial review by the Channel Futures editorial team and are then presented to a distinguished panel of judges, comprising esteemed figures in the channel. These judges meticulously assess the merits of each application, casting their votes to determine the standout individual or organization deserving of each award.

 

Channel Futures is pleased to name Align as Managed Service Provider of the Year

“Receiving this award is a huge accomplishment, as it acknowledges those companies, like Align Managed Services, who prioritize outstanding client satisfaction,” said Vinod Paul, Chief Operating Officer, Align.

 

“At Align, our central focus is on continually improving and expanding our services, fueled by an unwavering commitment to our clients’ success. Our ability to discern the evolving needs of our clients empowers us to identify and leverage the most promising emerging technologies. Specializing in the alternative investment sector, we not only assist clients in meeting but also exceeding the stringent operational due diligence standards and regulatory requirements mandated by the SEC. We take great joy in cultivating strong partnerships with our clients and observing their continuous success.”

 

Chris Zadrima, Managing Director of Align Managed Services comments, “We are dedicated to the ongoing enhancement of the client experience, emphasizing the integration of technology as not only a pivotal element in daily operations but also a defining factor in the success of our clients’ businesses.”

 

Award recipients, including Align, were formally acknowledged on the Channel Futures website and received accolades during an exclusive ceremony at the Channel Futures Leadership Summit, held from October 30 to November 2 in Miami, Florida. The ceremony, attended by hundreds of prominent MSPs, marked the introduction of the latest cohort of winners. This annual gathering consistently draws the most influential figures from the MSP and channel partner community, making it a highly anticipated event.

 

About Channel Futures

Channel Futures is a media and events destination for the information and communication technologies (ICT) channel community. We provide information, perspective and connection for the entire channel ecosystem, including solution providers (SPs), managed service providers (MSPs), managed security service providers (MSSPs), cloud service providers (CSPs), value-added resellers (VARs) and distributors, technology solutions brokerages, subagents and agents, as well as leading technology vendor partners and communication providers.

 

Channel Futures is part of Informa Tech, a market-leading B2B information provider with depth and specialization in ICT sector. Every year, we welcome 14,000+ subscribers to our research, more than 4 million unique monthly visitors to our digital communities, 18,200+ students to our training programs and 225,000 delegates to our events.

 

About Align

Align is a premier global provider of technology infrastructure solutions. For over 35 years, leading firms worldwide have relied on Align to guide them through IT challenges, delivering complete, secure solutions for business change and growth. Align is headquartered in Dallas, Texas and has offices in New York City, London, Chicago, San Francisco, Arizona, New Jersey, Texas and Virginia.

 

To learn more about Align, go to http://www.align.com and follow Align on LinkedIn and at @AlignITAdvisor on Twitter.

Contacts

Media
Ashley Holbrook

Director of Marketing, Align

aholbrook@align.com

Categories
Business Economics Energy Environment Science

Asbury Carbons Inc. announces price increases across all graphite product lines, cokes, and non-carbon materials

ASBURY, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Asbury Carbons Inc. announced on Friday that it will be introducing price increases for its graphite products (natural and synthetic) as well as cokes and non-carbon materials.

Price increases will range up to 10 percent, depending on the product and grade, and will go into effect for shipments beginning Jan. 1, 2024.

 

These price increases are necessary to help offset the increased cost of raw materials, energy, transportation, and manufacturing.

 

About Asbury Carbon, Inc.

Founded in 1895 by Harry M. Riddle and based in Asbury, NJ, Asbury Carbons Inc. is the world’s most reliable source for high-quality graphite, cokes, carbon materials, and graphene-engineered solutions.

 

The company provides more than 2,000 grades of materials, which it processes to customers’ exacting requirements for various applications, including polymers and rubbers, paints and coatings, lubricants, specialty ceramics, friction products, insulation, and other materials.

 

For nearly 130 years, Asbury has set an industry standard for meeting customers’ needs, providing flexible and innovative solutions, and investing in employees. The company operates 12 manufacturing locations across the U.S., Mexico, Canada, and the Netherlands and has sales offices across North America, Europe and Asia. For more information, please visit https://www.asbury.com/.

 

Contacts

Phone: +1 908.537.2155

Email: info@asbury.com

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Business Digital - AI & Apps Government Lifestyle Regulations & Security Science Technology

Port Authority NY NJ expands service and a new 15-device client emerges

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — $KSCP #SecurityRobot—Knightscope, Inc. [Nasdaq: KSCP] “(Knightscope” or the “Company),” a leading developer of autonomous security robots and blue light emergency communication systems, on Friday announces an expansion of services in New York and a new sale of 15 machines to a police department in California.

 

Port Authority New York New Jersey added the Knightscope Emergency Management System (KEMS) Professional service to monitor its 11 K1 Call Boxes on the George Washington Bridge. The KEMS platform allows clients and technicians to better understand the real-time health and status of deployed emergency communication devices. The cloud-based application monitors the system wide state-of-health, alerts users concerning operational issues, provides technicians real-time error detection/diagnostics, and collects/reports system performance statistics.

 

A police department in Southern California is purchasing 5 K1 Blue Light Towers to be installed in a new public park and 10 K1 Blue Light E-Phones in a new parking structure.

 

Knightscope’s Blue Light Towers, E-Phones and Call Boxes expand access to emergency communications for motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians utilizing the bridge as well as the park visitors by providing direct access to emergency services for people who may be experiencing danger, a crisis or some form of distress.

 

Learn More

Knightscope’s ASR services and industry leading emergency communications products help better protect the places people live, work, study and visit. To learn more about Knightscope’s Blue Light Emergency Communication Systems or Autonomous Security Robots – now with the option of Private LTE – book a discovery call or demonstration now at www.knightscope.com/discover.

 

About Knightscope

Knightscope is an advanced public safety technology company that builds fully autonomous security robots and blue light emergency communications systems that help protect the places people live, work, study and visit. Knightscope’s long-term ambition is to make the United States of America the safest country in the world. Learn more about us at www.knightscope.com. Follow Knightscope on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn and Instagram.

 

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release may contain “forward-looking statements” about Knightscope’s future expectations, plans, outlook, projections and prospects. Such forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “should,” “may,” “intends,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “projects,” “forecasts,” “expects,” “plans,” “proposes” and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release and other communications include, but are not limited to, statements about the Company’s profitability and growth. Although Knightscope believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, there are a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things, the risk that the restructuring costs and charges may be greater than anticipated; the risk that the Company’s restructuring efforts may adversely affect the Company’s internal programs and the Company’s ability to recruit and retain skilled and motivated personnel, and may be distracting to employees and management; the risk that the Company’s restructuring efforts may negatively impact the Company’s business operations and reputation with or ability to serve customers; the risk that the Company’s restructuring efforts may not generate their intended benefits to the extent or as quickly as anticipated. Readers are urged to carefully review and consider any cautionary statements and other disclosures, including the statements made under the heading “Risk Factors” in Knightscope’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of the document in which they are contained, and Knightscope does not undertake any duty to update any forward-looking statements, except as may be required by law.

Contacts

Stacy Stephens
Knightscope, Inc.
(650) 924-1025

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Business Culture Economics Education Lifestyle Programs & Events Sports & Gaming

Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk celebrates 15th anniversary with more than $3M raised for kids

Presented by Kinecta Federal Credit Union, the Annual Event Broke Records and Will Help Thousands of Children with Diverse Needs, Public Education and Scholarships

 

LOS ANGELES — (BUSINESS WIRE) — The Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk celebrated its 15th anniversary event with more than $3 million raised for children with special needs, public education, and national scholarships—totaling over $24 million in donations since its inception in 2009. Thousands of registrants contributed to these causes at the milestone event, which was supported by Presenting Sponsor Kinecta Federal Credit Union and over 100 generous businesses and donors, and featured Brooke Burke, Mr. T and Amanda Kloots along with performances from Young Selena singer and America’s Got Talent golden buzzer winner Madison Taylor Baez, Team Siwa’s pop group XOMG POP! and teen group FuturePop.

“I am very fortunate to have a platform to do good, and to be part of an organization at Skechers and the community of the South Bay that believes in giving back. It’s been my greatest joy to make a difference through philanthropy, especially the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk,” said Michael Greenberg, founder of the Walk.

“For over 15 years, I’ve seen thousands of our children form friendships, mature into young adults, realize their purpose, set out into the world—all the way knowing that we are here for them, behind them. The Walk has been such a beautiful and moving day to be part of, year after year—from seeing all the walkers to our generous celebrities and volunteers to incredible organizations like Kinecta and companies with so much heart—all here to uplift our kids. I’m deeply grateful for this experience—I know we’re helping future generations, and I encourage every community to do the same. I always say, ‘give until it hurts.’ But really, seeing the smiles on the kids’ faces, it just feels good.”

 

“This walk is about the power of friendship, which is actually quite profound when you think about it,” added fitness encourager and television host Brooke Burke. “Friendship is the thread that connects every human. It inspires us to make the impossible possible. And it’s the constant I’ve seen over the 12 years I’ve supported this walk. From the parents, neighbors and kids to the engaged sponsors and performers, athletes and icons who have graced this stage, everyone is here to celebrate friendship year after year.”

 

“This is my first time here, and what a thrill it’s been,” added actor and icon Mr. T. “Every kid has room to grow—there are no ceilings to what any person can learn and achieve. And what an amazing, special day this community has made to help them on their way. The energy and enthusiasm at this event is incredible. This Walk’s going to keep celebrating for 15 more years and beyond—and I’m so happy to be part of this beautiful legacy of love for our kids.”

 

Historically California’s largest event for children with special needs and education, the 3.5-mile Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk supports the future Friendship Campus (The Greenberg Family / Skechers Center)—a $55 million, 3.25-acre campus that will offer a life-changing community for friendship and learning. Planned for completion by year-end 2025, the facility will include numerous vocational programs including a Creative Arts Center, Culinary Institute, Recreation Center, Life Skills programming, and early education and mentoring opportunities, giving young adults the tools to transition to the workforce and find lifelong passion and purpose.

 

The Campus will also be home to the new headquarters for the Friendship Foundation, which offers companionship, celebrates uniqueness and encourages acceptance for all with diverse abilities. The organization offers over 60 in-person programs such as art, music, fitness, sign language, science, social emotional wellness and yoga, as well as pop-up programs like virtual scavenger hunts and talent shows that are free for anyone to attend locally and across the United States.

 

Academically, the Walk supports public school education foundations—reducing class sizes, updating labs, libraries and facilities and protecting teachers’ jobs. The Skechers Foundation’s national scholarship program also gives a portion of Walk proceeds to students with financial need and proven excellence in academics, athletics and leadership, donating more than $1.1 million in scholarships to date.

 

The Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk thanks Presenting Sponsor Kinecta Federal Credit Union and all of its sponsors, including Nickelodeon, Rare Beauty, Schwartz Family Foundation, Steel Sports, United Legwear & Apparel Co., Big 5 Sporting Goods, Petco Love, TJX Companies, Chevron, Bank of America, Ross Stores, Barco, Dakine, Vertra, LA Kings, LA Dodgers, McCarthy, LA Angels, Continental Development, WSS, Turkish Airlines, Cushman & Wakefield and many more companies that are committed to supporting our children.

 

To watch this year’s Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk and learn more about the event, please visit skechersfriendshipwalk.com or YouTube, and follow the Walk on Facebook, X and Instagram.

 

About Skechers Foundation

Established in 2010 to help children in need, the Skechers Foundation is dedicated to strengthening communities to ensure the health, success and well-being of youth worldwide. We invest in a global network of charitable organizations dedicated to embracing individuals with diverse abilities, improving education, empowering disadvantaged families and providing humanitarian, disaster and economic relief. By supporting millions through our products and services, we aspire to make a valiant effort in creating stronger, self-sufficient individuals for future generations.

 

About Skechers USA, Inc.

Skechers U.S.A., Inc. (NYSE:SKX), a Fortune 500® company based in Southern California, designs, develops and markets a diverse range of lifestyle and performance footwear, apparel and accessories for men, women and children. Collections from The Comfort Technology Company™ are available in 180 countries and territories through department and specialty stores, and direct to consumers through digital stores and over 4,900 Company- and third-party-owned physical retail stores. The Company manages its international business through a network of wholly-owned subsidiaries, joint venture partners, and distributors. For more information, please visit about.skechers.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

 

About Kinecta Federal Credit Union

Headquartered in Manhattan Beach, California, Kinecta Federal Credit Union is one of the country’s largest credit unions, with assets of $6.7 billion and more than 270,000 members from coast to coast. Banking the Southern California area for more than 80 years, with additional branches in New York, New Jersey, Northern California and Florida, Kinecta offers its members a full range of financial products from banking, lending and insurance to wealth management services. Kinecta has been recognized by the Mortgage Bankers Association as a recipient of its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Residential Leadership Award, and received the Best of Show award granted by the Credit Union National Association (CUNA) Technology Council. Residents of Rochester, NY, voted Kinecta as a finalist for Best Credit Union in the Democrat & Chronicle’s annual Rochester Choice Awards in 2022. Forbes awarded Kinecta as a top-ranked credit union in California on its America’s Best Credit Unions in Each State 2022 List. Kinecta has 29 branches, and its members can use a network of more than 5,800 shared branches and access over 85,000 fee-free ATMs nationwide. For more information on Kinecta, visit the website and LinkedIn.

 

This announcement contains forward-looking statements that are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, 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 may include, without limitation, Skechers’ future domestic and international growth, financial results and operations including expected net sales and earnings, its development of new products, future demand for its products, its planned domestic and international expansion, opening of new stores and additional expenditures, and advertising and marketing initiatives. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking language such as “believe,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “project,” “will,” “could,” “may,” “might,” or any variations of such words with similar meanings. Any such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in forward-looking statements. Factors that might cause or contribute to such differences include the disruption of business and operations due to the COVID-19 pandemic; delays or disruptions in our supply chain; international economic, political and market conditions including the effects of inflation and foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations around the world, the challenging consumer retail markets in the United States, and the impact of wars, acts of war and other conflicts around the world; sustaining, managing and forecasting costs and proper inventory levels; losing any significant customers; decreased demand by industry retailers and cancellation of order commitments due to the lack of popularity of particular designs and/or categories of products; maintaining brand image and intense competition among sellers of footwear for consumers, especially in the highly competitive performance footwear market; anticipating, identifying, interpreting or forecasting changes in fashion trends, consumer demand for the products and the various market factors described above; sales levels during the spring, back-to-school and holiday selling seasons; and other factors referenced or incorporated by reference in Skechers’ annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022 and its quarterly reports on Form 10-Q in 2023. Taking these and other risk factors associated with the COVID-19 pandemic into consideration, the dynamic nature of these circumstances means that what is stated in this press release could change at any time, and as a result, actual results could differ materially from those contemplated by such forward-looking statements. The risks included here are not exhaustive. Skechers operates in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment. New risks emerge from time to time and we cannot predict all such risk factors, nor can we assess the impact of all such risk factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Given these risks and uncertainties, you should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as a prediction of actual results. Moreover, reported results should not be considered an indication of future performance.

Contacts

Jennifer Clay

SKECHERS USA

jennc@skechers.com
(310) 937-1326

Categories
Business Culture Healthcare Lifestyle Perks Science

Lynn Mason appointed Chief Executive Officer for IVI RMA America

Proven Executive Brings 17 Years of Experience in Scaling Leading Healthcare Businesses

 

 

BASKING RIDGE, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — IVI RMA America, the North American business of IVI RMA, the largest reproductive medicine group in the world, Wednesday announced the appointment of Lynn Mason as Chief Executive Officer. She will oversee the North American operations as well as growth initiatives in support of bringing better fertility outcomes to more patients across the United States and Canada.

 

“Lynn is a talented, proven leader who has made her mark on the ever-changing healthcare environment by working as a transformative executive in both large and small organizations, delivering quality care and a great patient experience,” said Javier Sanchez Prieto, CEO of IVI RMA. “We’re excited for Lynn’s leadership as we continue to foster a patient-first approach while delivering industry-leading fertility solutions.”

Prior to joining IVI RMA America, Mason served for four years as President and Chief Executive Officer of Broadstep Behavioral Health, a leading provider of behavioral health and supportive living services for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental illness, and co-occurring disorders. During her tenure at Broadstep, the company more than doubled in size in three years, expanding from four to seven states. Earlier in her career, Mason held senior leadership roles with increasing responsibility in healthcare organizations, including ChenMed, Care Services, DaVita Kidney Care and DaVita RX, and United Allergy Services.

 

Mason currently serves on the Boards of Directors of nonprofits Shoes-That-Fit and the American Heart Association-Go Red for Women. She also contributes to primary care and behavioral health by serving on the Board of Directors for ConvenientMD and Stella Behavioral Health and is an active member of the Stanford Women on Boards and The Stanford Black Alumni Association.

 

Mason earned her BSBA degree in Finance and Accounting from Washington University in St. Louis and her MBA from Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business.

 

“IVI RMA has a stellar reputation for the industry’s best outcomes, most innovative R&D platform, and sharpest talent, and I am thrilled and honored to join as CEO for America,” said Mason. “I’m eager to support our physician leaders in expanding our presence and strengthening our culture to make IVI RMA America the natural first choice for patients, physicians, and medical partners.”

 

“The team and I look forward to Lynn bringing a fresh and energized perspective to our business and complementing our scientific leaders,” added Thomas A. Molinaro, M.D., Medical Director, IVI RMA America. “Her experience across multiple channels of healthcare delivery will serve us well as we position the organization for future growth and continued reproductive excellence.”

 

About IVI RMA

IVI RMA is the world’s leading Reproductive Medicine group. It is committed to providing evidence-based fertility solutions with the greatest chance of success in the shortest time necessary to patients seeking treatment anywhere in the world. IVI RMA employs nearly 3,900 people across +150 locations in 14 countries. The group maintains a team of highly trained physicians as well as renowned scientists and researchers, aligned with its vision of pioneering in the field of Reproductive Medicine. Learn more at rmanetwork.com and ivirma.com.

Contacts

Media Contact
Alex Varney

avarney@stantonprm.com
(646) 502-3565

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Business Culture Energy Entertainment News International & World Lifestyle Programs & Events Science Sports & Gaming Travel & Leisure

Six Flags Magic Mountain breaks ground on California’s largest solar energy project

Phase One for New 12.37-Megawatt Solar Carport Structure Begins on November 1

 

LOS ANGELES — (BUSINESS WIRE) — #SixFlagsMagicMountain — Six Flags Magic Mountain, the undisputed Thrill Capital of the World, in partnership with Solar Optimum and DSD Renewables (DSD), today announced the official ground breaking of a new 12.37-megawatt solar carport and energy storage system. The Six Flags Magic Mountain project is the largest single-site commercial renewable energy project in California and largest solar project allocated toward a for-profit organization in the United States.

 

“We’re thrilled to be breaking ground on this monumental project and taking the next step towards a cleaner, greener future,” said Six Flags Magic Mountain Interim Park President Jeff Harris.

 

“We’re continuing to make advancements towards improving and protecting the environment, and are honored to be industry leaders, paving the way for other theme park companies around the world. Our partners and established solar and renewable energy industry experts at Solar Optimum and DSD Renewables, as well as our partners with Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger’s Office, have been instrumental in bringing this project to fruition, allowing us to break ground at an increased timeline. Getting a glance at what this massive structure will bring to our parks and community is simply remarkable,” he added.

 

Key components of the Six Flags Magic Mountain solar installation include:

  • A 637,000 square foot, 12.37-megawatt solar carport built over the main guest parking lot and team member parking lot;
  • The park will be able to offset 100% of its energy usage with solar power;
  • Estimated 3,544 guest parking spaces and 771 team member parking spaces;
  • Approximately 30 electric vehicle charging spaces in the guest parking lot;
  • Added shade coverage to keep cars cool for guests and team members;
  • Increased security systems and protection;
  • Battery storage system producing approximately 2 megawatts of power with up to 8-megawatt hours of capacity that can be deployed daily;
  • Produce 20.8 million kilowatt hours of energy annually, which is equivalent to the electricity consumption of 2,874 homes;
  • Offset greenhouse gas emissions each year comparable to 34,194 barrels of oil consumed, 5,110 tons of waste recycled rather than landfilled, and 17,612 acres of U.S. forests;
  • Offset carbon dioxide equivalents each year comparable to taking 3,182 cars off the road, 37.8 million miles driven by an average gasoline-powered automobile, and 1.6 million gallons of gasoline consumed; and
  • Produce 517.89 million kilowatt hours of energy in a 25-year period, which offsets greenhouse gas energy consumption equivalent to 911 million miles driven by gasoline-powered automobiles and the carbon sequestration equivalent to 434.3 thousand acres of trees planted.

 

The Six Flags Magic Mountain project is the third solar installation for Six Flags. Properties in Northern California at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom and New Jersey at Six Flags Great Adventure have also developed on-site solar capabilities with over 30 megawatts of fully operational solar power systems installed. These three sites will rank as the largest volume of onsite Solar PV systems for any U.S. organization with a combined total of 42.37 megawatts.

 

“We are excited to break ground on this solar-plus-storage project at Six Flags Magic Mountain and watch the Solar Optimum team work their installation magic. Solar canopies have always been an excellent use of otherwise underutilized space and this site, with its wide open parking lots, provides the perfect canvas to build on,” said Danielle Fidel, Senior Director, Developer Network at DSD. “Partnering with Solar Optimum through DSD’s Developer Network has allowed us to make this project a reality for Six Flags and we’re looking forward to it coming to life!”

 

“The Six Flags Magic Mountain solar project stands as the largest of its kind in the nation, boasting an impressive area exceeding 637,000 square feet of shade structures,” said Arno Aghamalian, CEO and Founder of Solar Optimum. “The magnitude of this undertaking is a marvel in itself, and as we initiate the construction phase, we are excited to offer a glimpse into what this project will evolve into by the year’s end.”

 

“Not only does this project rank as a remarkable national achievement, showcasing the integration of solar technology, carports, energy storage, and electric vehicle charging, but it is also a testament to the dedication and collaborative spirit of all those involved,” continued Aghamalian. “From the offices of the Governor and LA County Supervisor to SCE, our development partners, and a dedicated team of individuals, we are rapidly ushering this project to completion.”

 

For 63 years, Six Flags has been committed to protecting and improving the environment and its communities, striving toward the expansion of sustainability and ESG-related initiatives and efforts. By actively working to reduce the environmental impact of its amusement park operations, the company continues to make meaningful advancements in adopting solar power throughout its operations and otherwise reducing greenhouse gas emissions. For more information regarding Six Flags’ sustainability and ESG-related initiatives, visit sixflags.com.

 

About Six Flags Magic Mountain

Six Flags Magic Mountain, known as the Thrill Capital of the World, boasts 20 world-class roller coasters—more than any other theme park on the planet—and is home to more than 100 rides, games, and attractions, including roller coaster icons like Twisted Colossus, Tatsu, Goliath, and X2. For more information, visit www.sixflags.com/magicmountain.

 

About Six Flags Entertainment Corporation

Six Flags Entertainment Corporation is the world’s largest regional theme park company with 27 parks across the United States, Mexico and Canada. For 63 years, Six Flags has entertained hundreds of millions of guests with world-class coasters, themed rides, thrilling water parks and unique attractions. Six Flags is committed to creating an inclusive environment that fully embraces the diversity of our team members and guests. For more information, visit www.sixflags.com.

Follow us on Twitter @sfmagicmountain

Like us on Facebook @sixflagsmagicmountain @sixflagshurricaneharborla

Follow us on Instagram @sixflagsmagicmountain

Follow us on TikTok @sfmagicmountain @hurricaneharborla

 

About Solar Optimum

Solar Optimum is a Los Angeles-based solar, battery storage and roofing company that provides homeowners and businesses in California, Nevada, and Arizona with progressive, premium energy solutions – with unmatched value. Since 2008, Solar Optimum has been on a mission to educate and inspire its customers to become 100% energy independent, and with over 300 MW installed, thousands of customers have now reached that goal.

 

Solar Optimum’s premier certifications, top-of-the-line products and warranties, and award-winning customer service have earned Solar Optimum the position as the #1 ranked California EPC for Solar and Battery Storage and #2 ranked National EPC for Solar and Storage (in the Residential and Commercial category) according to Solar Power World International. To learn more, visit www.SolarOptimum.com and connect with us on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

 

About DSD Renewables

DSD Renewables (DSD) is transforming the way organizations harness clean energy while building a more sustainable future. With unparalleled capabilities including development, structured financing, project acquisition and long-term asset ownership, DSD accelerates the deployment of renewable energy resources and creates significant value for our commercial, industrial, and municipal customers and partners. Backed by world-leading financial partners, our team brings a distinct combination of ingenuity, rigor, and accountability to every project we manage, acquire, own, and maintain. To learn more, visit DSDRenewables.com and connect with us on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook.

Contacts

Alex French

sfmmpr@sixflags.com
661-400-3143

Categories
Business Economics Lifestyle Local News News Now! Regulations & Security

Church & Dwight Co., Inc. declares 491st regular quarterly dividend

EWING, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Church & Dwight Co., Inc. (NYSE:CHD) today reported that its Board of Directors declared a regular quarterly dividend of twenty seven and one quarter ($0.2725) cents per share.

This quarterly dividend will be payable December 1, 2023 to stockholders of record at the close of business on November 15, 2023. It is the Company’s 491st regular consecutive quarterly dividend.

 

Church & Dwight Co., Inc. manufactures and markets a wide range of personal care, household and specialty products, under the Arm & Hammer brand name and other well-known trademarks.

Contacts

Church & Dwight Co., Inc.

Rick Dierker, 609-806-1200

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Business International & World Lifestyle Technology

Align receives Best Cloud Services Provider Award in the 2023 Hedgeweek US Awards for its innovative Managed IT Solutions

NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–#alternativeinvestment–Align, the premier global provider of technology infrastructure solutions and Managed IT Services, announces today that it has been awarded Best Cloud Services Provider in the 2023 Hedgeweek US Awards.

 

This annual award recognizes excellence among fund managers and service providers in the US across a wide range of categories. As the top Cloud Service Provider, Align prides itself on offering the highest-quality managed IT services for hedge funds. The Align IT Suite, Align’s complete Managed Services platform, is built on the foundation of the Microsoft public cloud, offering flexible, secure, compliant managed services for clients, particularly those in the alternative investment industry.

 

Chris Zardima, Managing Director of Align Managed Services, expresses his gratitude for the recognition for Hedgeweek, stating, ” We are honored to have received recognition as the top Cloud Services Provider by Hedgeweek. In response to the dynamic demands and security concerns brought about by the changing financial services landscape, we have taken a proactive stance. Our cornerstone managed IT solution, the Align IT Suite, is strategically hosted within the Microsoft public cloud. This deliberate decision empowers us to provide our clients with IT solutions that exhibit both scalability and adaptability, while also proactively addressing the evolving regulatory and threat landscapes.”

 

As a trailblazer in the industry, Align became the first Managed Services Provider to introduce an all-encompassing Public Cloud-based platform tailored exclusively for the Alternative Financial Services sector. As a premier Tier 1 Microsoft Azure cloud services provider with a singular focus on the alternative investment industry, Align has broadened its portfolio by delivering cybersecurity solutions meticulously designed for Registered Investment Advisors and the Alternative Investment (ALT) community. Align has been a pioneering advocate for the adoption of public cloud computing as the ideal foundation for shaping a modern IT environment for fund managers. Respected organizations from around the world place their unwavering trust in Align for the management of their IT infrastructure.

 

“Our award-winning solution simplifies IT management while addressing the critical needs of security and compliance,” remarks Vinod Paul, Chief Operating Officer.

 

“Our services provide the Alternative Financial Services industry with the confidence, reliability, and adaptability necessary to excel in the dynamic IT environment of today. Through Align Managed Services, clients can harness solutions engineered to lower operational expenses, expedite workflows, mitigate risks, and enhance and streamline the multitude of controls essential for meeting both existing regulatory compliance standards and the ongoing expectations of due diligence.”

 

To learn more about Align, go to www.align.com and follow Align on LinkedIn and at @AlignITAdvisor on Twitter.

 

About Align

Align is a premier global provider of technology infrastructure solutions. For over 35 years, leading firms worldwide have relied on Align to guide them through IT challenges, delivering complete, secure solutions for business change and growth. Align is headquartered in Dallas, Texas and has offices in New York City, London, Chicago, San Francisco, Arizona, New Jersey, and Virginia. Learn ore at https://www.align.com/managed-services.

Contacts

Ashley Holbrook

aholbrook@align.com
212-546-6159

Categories
Business Economics Government Lifestyle Regulations & Security

Best’s Special Report: Insurer membership in Federal Home Loan Bank grows as Life/Annuity Companies capitalize on investment spreads

OLDWICK, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — #insurance — U.S. life/annuity (L/A) insurers increased their borrowing through the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) program by 22% in 2022, as they looked to capitalize on enhanced yields in the higher interest rate environment, according to a new AM Best report.

 

U.S. insurance companies now represent nearly 9% of FHLB membership, following a 4% growth uptick last year by insurers. However, the Best’s Special Report notes that the vast majority of insurance companies do not have access to secured FHLB loans made available through the program. During 2022, only 22% of U.S. life/annuity (L/A) insurers had borrowing access, compared with nearly 7% of the property/casualty (P/C) segment and slightly less than 3% of health insurers. Borrowing in the P/C segment more than doubled to $11.2 billion in 2020 as a result of COVID-19 but has steadily declined and totaled $6.0 billion in 2022. Despite the uptick in industry borrowing, capacity remains available for most insurers across all segments.

 

“Borrowing grew in 2022 for life/annuity insurers as they sought to increase investment yields by capitalizing on the higher interest-rate environment,” said Kaitlin Piasecki, industry analyst, AM Best. “As for property/casualty insurers, their FHLB borrowing declined last year after peaking in 2020, when they sought extra liquidity as a cushion against the uncertainty brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.”

 

The FHLB is composed of 11 regional cooperatives and are privately owned by their members. To gain membership, an insurer must actively participate in mortgage financing, be financially sound, and purchase FHLB capital stock. As members of the FHLB, insurers can apply for secured loans, known as advances, at lower rates. Historically, each insurance segment has had different reasons for using the FHLB.

 

“Life insurers use it mostly for spread/yield enhancement, while property/casualty and health insurers use it more for liquidity and short-term working capital/operations,” said Jason Hopper, associate director, AM Best.

 

AM Best estimates that 2022 new money bond portfolio yields were 5.1% for L/A insurers, a noteworthy bump from 3.6% in 2021. Insurers can borrow from the FHLB at more favorable rates than from commercial lenders, and re-invest that money into higher yielding assets, resulting in additional yield and excess spread over the cost of an FHLB advance.

 

To access the full copy of the report titled, “FHLB Life/Annuity Members Capitalize on High Rates for Spread Opportunities,” please visit http://www3.ambest.com/bestweek/purchase.asp?record_code=337249.

 

To view a recent video discussion of AM Best’s report on the FHLB program, please go to http://www.ambest.com/v.asp?v=ambfhlb1023.

 

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

Kaitlin Piasecki
Industry Analyst
+1 908 285 3764
kaitlin.piasecki@ambest.com

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

Jason Hopper
Associate Director, Industry Research & Analytics
+1 908 882 1896
jason.hopper@ambest.com

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