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SIGMA Announces 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art – the World’s First 14mm F1.4 Lens – Designed Especially for Astrophotography

SIGMA CORPORATION OF AMERICA

SIGMA Corporation of America, the US subsidiary of SIGMA Corporation (CEO: Kazuto Yamaki. Headquarters: Asao-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa, Japan) is pleased to announce the SIGMA 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art lens. This is the world's widest F1.4 single focal length lens *, born from our engineers' passion for capturing the widest, brightest, highest-resolution, and most captivating starry sky images possible. Designed specifically for astrophotography, the 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art lens is a full-frame, ultra wide-angle prime designed exclusively for mirrorless camera systems, and is available in Sony E-mount and Leica L-Mount. This lens offers a full set of features designed for astrophotography including a removable tripod socket, MFL switch (Manual Focus Lock function), lens heater retainer, rear filter holder, and a specially-designed front cap including a NEW locking mechanism and NEW filter storage slots. All this, plus thorough aberration correction make this possibly the best lens ever made for astrophotography. Its ultra-wide 14mm angle of view that captures wide starry skies and bright F1.4 aperture that minimizes exposure time are ideal specifications for astrophotography. Incredibly sharp from corner to corner with splash and dust-resistant construction, this lens retains the same high performance and quality standards found within the SIGMA F1.4 Art lens lineup. The astrophotography-focused feature set and total optical performance make this an excellent lens for high-end architecture, real estate, and landscape photography as well. The lens will retail for $1,599 through authorized US retailers and will be available in late June 2023. * Excluding fisheye lenses, as interchangeable lenses for mirrorless cameras and SLR cameras (as of June, 2023 by SIGMA) Learn more about the SIGMA 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art lens: https://www.sigmaphoto.com/14mm-f1-4-dg-dn-a #SIGMA #SIGMA14mmF14Art #SIGMAArt #SIGMAArtPrime #SIGMADGDN Exclusively designed for full-frame mirrorless cameras A | Art SIGMA 14mm F1.4 DG DN New vision. Expanding possibilities. Ultra wide-angle 14mm with a maximum aperture of F1.4 and outstanding optical performance Abundant functions and accessories to support starscape photography Signature Art line features and high build quality Supplied accessories: Case, COVER LENS CAP LC1014-01, REAR CAP LCR II, TRIPOD SOCKET TS-141, PROTECTIVE COVER PT-41, GUIDE PLATE GP-11 Available mounts: L-Mount, Sony E-mount * The appearance and specifications of the product are subject to change. * This product is developed, manufactured and sold based on the specifications of E-mount which was disclosed by Sony Corporation under the license agreement with Sony Corporation. * L-Mount is a registered trademark of Leica Camera AG. The world's first and only* lens that combines an ultra-wide angle of 14mm with a maximum aperture of F1.4. All for the best starscape photography. The stars in the sky are a source of inspiration for viewers. On the other hand, the starry sky is a very demanding subject for a wide-angle lens, with its numerous tiny point light sources spread over the entire image. The 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art is the world's widest F1.4 single focal length lens*, born from our engineers' passion for capturing the widest, brightest, highest-resolution, and most captivating starry sky possible. Thanks to SIGMA's latest technology, the lens combines an ultra-wide angle of 14mm with a maximum aperture of F1.4. In addition, SIGMA's lens technology has achieved high optical performance with thorough correction of sagittal coma flare, specialized functions to support starry landscape photography, and high-speed AF with the HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) linear motor. The Milky Way stretching across the night sky, twinkling stars emerging over ridgelines ― the 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art can make this a reality as an image that surpasses the actual photographic experience. Its proven ability in shooting starscapes will provide new possibilities for visual expression and enjoyment in all scenes, including daytime landscapes, architecture, and indoor photography in dark and confined spaces. * Excluding fisheye lenses, as interchangeable lenses for mirrorless cameras and SLR cameras (as of June, 2023 by SIGMA). [ Key Features ] 1. Ultra wide-angle 14mm with a maximum aperture of F1.4 and outstanding optical performance This world-first performance was achieved by applying the best of SIGMA's optical technologies, from the design to the lens manufacturing process. 19 elements in 15 groups, including 1 SLD glass element, 3 FLD glass elements, and 4 aspherical lens elements, make up a luxurious lens configuration. This allows for advanced aberration correction and a high degree of precision in the lens construction. This allows both advanced aberration correction and F1.4 brightness. In particular, sagittal coma flare, which distorts the shape of stars, has been carefully corrected, and even at the widest aperture, the lens delivers high image reproducibility right to the periphery of the image. Ghosting and flare are also thoroughly addressed through both optical design and coatings. This allows for clear, crisp shooting of starry sky and night scenes. Optimized for starscapes, which require extremely high performance, this lens delivers images that exceed expectations in any scene, including landscapes, architecture snapshots, portraits, and indoor photography. 2. Abundant functions and accessories to support starscape photography The 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art is equipped with a wealth of features to support starscape photography. This fully backs up the fun of starscape photography. Tripod Socket Includes a detachable tripod mount compatible with Arca-Swiss type. The 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art can be mounted on a tripod in a more stable condition, as it is heavier on the front side. The shape is designed to prevent interference even when using the lens heater. MFL (Manual Focus Lock) Switch A switch to lock the manual focus at a desired position. Prevents focus shift caused by unintentional operation of the focus ring. This is useful for long time exposure photography, etc., where the focus is fixed. Lens Heater Retainer Steps around the front and lens heater retainers prevent the lens heater* from protruding into the front of the lens and causing vignetting on the periphery of the screen. * A belt-shaped heater that is wrapped around the lens to prevent condensation from forming inside the lens when the temperature drops. Rear Filter Holder A rear filter holder is provided as standard equipment at the lens mount for attaching a sheet-type rear filter. A lock mechanism is also provided to prevent the filter from falling out. Special front cap with locking mechanism and filter slots Includes a cover-type front cap with locking mechanism. It also has a newly developed filter slot that can hold two rear filters depending on the application. The cap is specially designed for the 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art to protect the sheet filters from scratches and dirt while ensuring that they are not mistakenly taken out or forgotten. 3. Signature Art line features and high build quality In addition to functions specifically designed for shooting starscapes, the lens is equipped with various functions to assist in shooting, including an AFL button to which any function can be assigned and an aperture ring. The body is dust and splash resistant, and the frontmost surface of the lens is coated with a water- and stain-repellent coating, so you can shoot outdoors in harsh environments with peace of mind. The HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) enables high-speed, quiet, and highly accurate autofocusing. In order to maintain performance while supporting a lens with a large aperture, the lens has a robust internal structure and uses lightweight materials such as polycarbonate TSC (Thermally Stable Composite), which has a thermal shrinkage rate equivalent to that of aluminum, and magnesium in appropriate locations to reduce weight while ensuring robustness. The lens body is built with the high build quality of the Art line specifications, allowing the user to fully enjoy the unique performance of the lens in any environment, including shooting starscapes. [ Additional Features ] Lens construction: 19 elements in 15 groups (3 FLD,1 SLD, and 4 aspherical elements) Inner focus system Compatible with high-speed autofocus HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) Compatible with Lens Aberration Correction Function available on supported cameras only. Available corrections and auto correction functionality may vary depending on the camera model. On cameras where lens aberration correction is controlled with 'ON' or 'OFF' in the camera menu, please set all aberration correction functions to 'ON' (AUTO). Supports DMF and AF+MF Compatible with AF assist (Sony E-mount only) Super Multi-Layer Coating Water and Oil Repellent Coating (front element) Aperture ring Aperture ring click switch Aperture ring lock switch AFL button MFL switch Rear Filter Holder (compatible with GUIDE PLATE GP-11) Lens Heater Retainer Focus Mode Switch Support for switching between linear and non-linear focus ring settings (for L-Mount only) Dust and Splash Resistant Structure TRIPOD SOCKET TS-141 supplied Special front cap with locking mechanism and filter slot: COVER LENS CAP LC1014-01 (NEW) Compatible with SIGMA USB DOCK UD-11 (sold separately / for L-Mount only) Designed to minimize flare and ghosting Every single lens undergoes SIGMA's proprietary MTF measuring system 11-blade rounded diaphragm High-precision, durable brass bayonet mount "Made in Japan" craftsmanship Learn more about SIGMA's craftsmanship here: https://www.sigma-global.com/en/about/craftsmanship/ [ Key Specifications ] The figures below are for the L-Mount version: [ Product Barcode ] [ Accessories: Supplied ] [ Accessories: Optional ] [ Contact ] For further information, please contact your local authorized SIGMA Service Station listed here: https://www.sigma-global.com/en/world-network/ [ Information ] SIGMA Corporation: https://www.sigma-global.com/en/ Product information: https://www.sigma-global.com/en/lenses/a023_14_14/ [ About SIGMA Corporation ] Craftsmanship. Precision. Dedication. Since 1961, SIGMA has been devoted to the pursuit of advancing photographic technology. Unique to the industry, the family-owned business produces its high-quality, award-winning still photo and cinema camera lenses, DSLR and mirrorless cameras, flashes, filters and accessories from its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located in Aizu, Japan. In 2012, the company introduced SIGMA Global Vision with three distinct lens lines: Art, Contemporary and Sports. Designed for industry camera mount systems including Canon, Fujifilm, Leica, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Sony and SIGMA, each lens is handcrafted and tested in Japan to ensure a high-performance, premium product that is purpose-built to last. In 2016, the SIGMA Cine lens lineup was launched, further cementing SIGMA as an innovator in imaging engineering. Embodying the core optical DNA that has defined the SIGMA benchmark of excellence, SIGMA Cine lenses meet the needs of advanced 6k and 8k cinema production. Forming the landmark L-Mount alliance alongside Leica and Panasonic in 2018, SIGMA continues its storied tradition of imaging excellence through groundbreaking innovations such as the native L-mount SIGMA fp and fp L full-frame mirrorless digital cameras, announced in July 2019 and March 2021 respectively. These products, along with over 30 award-winning SIGMA Global Vision lenses available in native L-Mount format, demonstrate SIGMA's continued commitment to the creative community through expanded product offerings. With the fp, fp L and these lenses, even more users can now leverage SIGMA's renowned optical formula to achieve their creative vision with ease. For information about SIGMA America, please visit sigmaphoto.com and SIGMA Blog for helpful information about our products. Follow SIGMA America (Photo): Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Follow SIGMA Ameica (Cine): Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Contact Details SIGMA Jack Howard +1 631-201-7381 SIGMA.PR@Sigmaphoto.com Company Website https://www.sigma-global.com/en/

June 08, 2023 08:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Kaleidoscope Welcomes Jason Von Bank as New CEO to Drive Innovation and Growth

Rally Ventures

Kaleidoscope, the leading fintech platform driving education-based philanthropy, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Jason Von Bank as its new CEO. Von Bank has over 25 years of experience in developing, leading and growing innovative businesses within highly competitive and complex markets such as healthcare, fintech and B2B services. Kaleidoscope's cloud-based fintech platform enables organizations to fund, design, administer and host beautifully-branded scholarship and grant programs. Kaleidoscope recently launched its full-service disbursement platform that streamlines the process of awarding funds and eliminates the administrative and compliance burdens that plague busy teams. "I believe deeply in Kaleidoscope’s mission of eliminating financial barriers to advancement by mobilizing philanthropic dollars. I’m a first-generation college student, and college would not have been possible for me without scholarships,” said Jason Von Bank, CEO of Kaleidoscope. “Kaleidoscope has a market-leading B2B scholarship software platform, committed customers, a talented team and a massive market opportunity ripe for disruption. I couldn’t be more excited to lead this company into its next great chapter.” Von Bank brings a wealth of experience to his new role as CEO of Kaleidoscope. He most recently served as the Chief Operating Officer for LifeSpeak Inc., (TSX: LSPK), the leading whole-person wellbeing solution for employers, health plans and other organizations. Von Bank came to LifeSpeak via its acquisition of Wellbeats, where he served as CEO for eight years. Prior to Wellbeats, he held senior leadership positions with LifeTime Fitness, UnitedHealth Group, the Schwan Food Company and General Electric. “Jason brings a stellar track record across both public and private companies. His background demonstrates an ability to optimize business processes, forge strategic partnerships and drive growth,” said Justin Kaufenberg, Managing Director at Rally Ventures. “We believe he is uniquely qualified to lead Kaleidoscope and will be instrumental in scaling the company and further solidifying its position as an industry leader.” Kaleidoscope is poised to redefine the landscape of education-based philanthropy and continue its mission of empowering organizations, donors and applicants through seamless and efficient technology and processes. Kaleidoscope plans to roll out several new products and services over the coming months, including a unified communication platform, trust and safety features and premium service offerings. About Kaleidoscope: Kaleidoscope is a cloud-based fintech platform enabling organizations to fund, design, administer and host branded scholarship and grant programs. The platform uses leading technologies to deliver an end-to-end solution for sponsors, organizations and those they support. Kaleidoscope is building a future where financial aid and funding solutions are smart, cost-effective and as unique as the applicants they serve. To learn more about how Kaleidoscope can improve your scholarship or grant program, visit mykaleidoscope.com. Contact Details Rachel Subasic rachel@rallyventures.com Company Website https://www.mykaleidoscope.com/

June 08, 2023 07:03 AM Central Daylight Time

The Path to Full Transparency in Silver Production: The Launch of trueSilver by SMX (NASDAQ: SMX)

Security Matters PLC

Navigating the glittering labyrinth of the global silver market is no easy task. Beyond the glistening façade lie significant concerns relating to data reliability, counterfeit products, market manipulation, and the imbalance between paper and physical silver. These issues not only distort the market's clear reflection but can also pose real financial risks to investors and traders. In an era where trust is as valuable as the precious metal itself, understanding the veiled challenges of transparency and authenticity becomes paramount. This article illuminates the intricate maze, shedding light on these concerns, their implications, and how one company, SMX (NASDAQ: SMX) is taking the critical steps needed to ensure a more transparent and genuine global silver market. Authenticity, Traceability, and Transparency Issues Currently Plaguing the Global Silver Market There are several key issues related to the transparency and authenticity of the global silver market. One of the main concerns is the reliability of data regarding silver production, supply, and demand. Since silver is often mined as a byproduct of other metals like gold, copper, and zinc, accurate tracking of silver production can be challenging. Furthermore, the lack of standardized reporting practices among mining companies and nations adds another layer of complexity. This lack of reliable data makes it difficult to gauge the true state of the global silver market, which can lead to price volatility and speculation. Another issue is the authenticity of silver itself. The rise of counterfeit silver products, especially bars, and coins, has become a significant problem in recent years. These fake products are often so well-made that they can fool even experienced investors and collectors. The issue of counterfeit silver not only undermines the trust in the physical silver market but also poses financial risks to unsuspecting buyers. The lack of transparency in the over-the-counter (OTC) commodity markets is another significant concern. Unlike exchanges that have clear rules and oversight, OTC commodity markets are less regulated, making it difficult to monitor trades and transactions. This lack of oversight can lead to manipulation, which has been a long-standing concern in the silver market. Cases of market manipulation can distort prices, making it difficult for investors and traders to make informed decisions. Furthermore, there's a concern over the discrepancy between paper silver and physical silver. Many investors trade in silver futures contracts, which represent a promise to deliver silver in the future. However, the amount of these contracts often far exceeds the actual physical silver available for delivery. This disparity can lead to a lack of confidence in the paper silver market, as investors question whether the contracts can indeed be fulfilled if a large number of holders demand delivery at the same time. Addressing these issues will require concerted efforts from regulatory bodies, industry participants, and investors. Standardized reporting practices, rigorous authenticity checks, increased oversight of OTC commodity markets, and better alignment between paper and physical silver are some of the measures that can enhance the transparency and authenticity of the global silver market. SMX Launches New Platform, trueSilver, to Combat Silver Traceability Issues Security Matters (SMX) plc is at the forefront of establishing a new paradigm in the silver industry with the creation of a unique technology platform named trueSilver. This initiative is in response to a growing global demand for enhanced traceability and transparency in the sourcing and recycling of silver, a precious metal integral to numerous industries, from electronics to jewelry. Following the successful filing of patents related to gold, aluminum, steel, and cobalt in 2023, SMX is now focusing on silver. The decision comes because silver is seldom found in its pure form, with at least 80% of global silver production emerging as a by-product of mining for other metals, such as gold, copper, lead, and zinc. SMX's decision to create trueSilver reflects an understanding of the ever-increasing demand for silver. In the " World Silver Survey 2022 " released by Metals Focus and The Silver Institute, the total silver supply, which includes mine production, recycling, net hedging supply, and net official sector sales, was projected to reach 1,030.0 million ounces in 2022, an increase from 997.2 million ounces in 2021. Correspondingly, the total demand for silver was estimated to rise to 1,101.8 million ounces in 2022, up from 1,049.0 million ounces in 2021. Innovatively, trueSilver technology 'marks' silver invisibly with a durable marker, allowing for a comprehensive, transparent record of the metal's journey from mine to market, and subsequently to recycle and reuse. This breakthrough approach ensures an ethical silver supply chain, providing an irrefutable mechanism for authenticating the origination of silver and enabling credible Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting in real-time. SMX's collaboration with Sunshine Minting Inc., is a testament to the industry's readiness for embracing change. An exclusive agreement for 120 days has been reached to create a path to full transparency and traceability for silver products and establish an industry standard. This move demonstrates a proactive response to the increasing demand for transparency and ethically sourced materials and a desire to meet ESG compliance requirements. Sunshine Minting Inc., expressed their enthusiasm, stating, "As we see the demand for transparency in the pursuit of ethically sourced materials escalating, along with the requirements for ESG compliance, we are very excited to work with the team at SMX to help develop trueSilver as an industry-wide solution." Echoing this sentiment, SMX emphasized its optimism about the partnership, declaring: "We are extremely honored and looking forward to the new relationship with Sunshine Minting. With this cooperation, we look forward to trueSilver becoming the leading player in the silver industry on ESG IMPACT and setting new standards, including proving recycled silver content." Overall, SMX's trueSilver initiative is a powerful tool in the fight for better traceability and transparency in the silver industry. By adopting innovative technologies and collaborating with leading players in the field, SMX is paving the way for sustainable silver production, consumption, and recycling, aligning with broader efforts to build a more sustainable world. Conclusion In conclusion, the silver industry faces pressing issues related to data reliability, authenticity, transparency, and the alignment of paper and physical silver. These challenges, complex and interconnected, require comprehensive and innovative solutions to ensure a safer, more trustworthy global silver market. SMX, through the launch of its trueSilver platform, has established itself as a game-changer in the field. The platform's groundbreaking technology that 'marks' silver, coupled with its exclusive partnership with Sunshine Minting, embodies a concerted effort to tackle these problems head-on, elevating industry standards. By prioritizing ethical sourcing, traceability, and ESG compliance, trueSilver not only safeguards investor interests but also paves the way for more sustainable practices in silver production, consumption, and recycling, aligning with the broader global aspiration of building a more sustainable future. The launch of trueSilver by SMX is a promising stride towards full transparency in silver production, one that has potential ripple effects across industries and markets. Check Out SMX’s Upcoming Interview on a New to the Street Segment Tonight, Thursday, June 8 th at 9:30 pm PST on Bloomberg TV as Sponsored Programming and on Saturday, June 10 th at 3:30 pm EST Syndicated on Newsmax Nationwide Disclaimer: Spotlight Growth is compensated, either directly or via a third party, to provide investor relations services for its clients. Spotlight Growth creates exposure for companies through a customized marketing strategy, including design of promotional material, the drafting and editing of press releases and media placement. All information on featured companies is provided by the companies profiled, or is available from public sources. Spotlight Growth and its employees are not a Registered Investment Advisor, Broker Dealer or a member of any association for other research providers in any jurisdiction whatsoever and we are not qualified to give financial advice. The information contained herein is based on external sources that Spotlight Growth believes to be reliable, but its accuracy is not guaranteed. Spotlight Growth may create reports and content that has been compensated by a company or third-parties, or for purposes of self-marketing. Spotlight Growth was compensated seven hundred and fifty dollars cash by a third party, Vince Caruso and FMW Media Works Corp. for the creation and dissemination of this content. This material does not represent a solicitation to buy or sell any securities. Certain statements contained herein constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements may include, without limitation, statements with respect to the Company’s plans and objectives, projections, expectations and intentions. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about the Company’s industry, management’s beliefs and certain assumptions made by management. The above communication, the attachments and external Internet links provided are intended for informational purposes only and are not to be interpreted by the recipient as a solicitation to participate in securities offerings. Investments referenced may not be suitable for all investors and may not be permissible in certain jurisdictions. Spotlight Growth and its affiliates, officers, directors, and employees may have bought or sold or may buy or sell shares in the companies discussed herein, which may be acquired prior, during or after the publication of these marketing materials. Spotlight Growth, its affiliates, officers, directors, and employees may sell the stock of said companies at any time and may profit in the event those shares rise in value. For more information on our disclosures, please visit: https://spotlightgrowth.com/disclosures/ The Post " The Path to Full Transparency in Silver Production: The Launch of trueSilver by SMX (NASDAQ: SMX) " First Appeared On Spotlight Growth. Contact Details SMX Spotlight Growth info@spotlightgrowth.com

June 08, 2023 05:00 AM Pacific Daylight Time

Crossword Cybersecurity says second half "looking really good"

Crossword Cybersecurity PLC

Crossword Cybersecurity PLC (AIM:CCS) group CEO Stuart Jubb speaks to Thomas Warner from Proactive after announcing the signing of a contract with a FTSE 250-listed engineering company to provide intelligence and security against threats on the dark web. Jubb talks about how the deal fits in with the broader strategy and what investors can expect from the coming months, saying the second half for the business is "looking really good." Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

June 08, 2023 03:54 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Lotis Blue Consulting Announces Partner Promotions to Strengthen Advisory Teams Across Key Practices as the Firm Fosters a “Grow from Within” Culture

Lotis Blue Consulting

Lotis Blue Consulting (LBC) is pleased to announce several Partner promotions which will result in significant advancements in the firm’s team structure. As a leading management consultancy, Lotis Blue offers a unique combination of data and behavioral science to assist clients in achieving business growth and transformation. These recent leadership moves reflect the company’s commitment to enhancing its service offerings and fostering stronger client relationships. Lotis Blue has consciously undertaken a deliberate restructuring of its business model, focusing on its core competencies in Organization Effectiveness, Leadership & Talent, Strategy Execution, and Change Management. “By aligning and strengthening our resources and efforts within these key areas, we aim to enhance our ability to provide exceptional services and deliver optimal outcomes for clients,” says CEO Garrett Sheridan. “These promotions are a testament to the exceptional dedication and performance of Holly Feldman, Erica Grant and John King, who have consistently demonstrated their commitment and competence. Our promotion of these individuals to Partnership reinforces the company’s commitment to our evolved, streamlined business strategy, as their skills and expertise will allow Lotis Blue to excel in these specialized domains during these volatile times.” Having rebranded in 2022, Lotis Blue Consulting has initiated a new chapter, reflecting its dedication to redefining its identity and aligning it with future goals. LBC’s rebranding signaled a pivotal moment for the company, affording Lotis Blue the opportunity to establish a unique presence in the market. These newly announced Partner promotions demonstrate the firm’s determination to cultivate talented teams that will play a vital role in its transformative journey and solidify its position as a premier management consulting firm. Lotis Blue's strong emphasis on recognizing and nurturing the potential of its own employees through internal promotions aligns with the company's long-term goal of fostering a growth-from-within culture. This approach ensures ample opportunities for growth and advancement of its employees, providing them with a clear path to Partnership and enabling them to actively contribute to the firm's success. The recent appointment of these new Partners further enriches LBC with diverse perspectives, expertise, and experience, complementing the firm's existing capabilities. Lotis Blue Consulting is proud to announce the following Partner promotions: Holly Feldman is a leader in the Organization Services division and is entering her 10th year with the firm. Holly brings exceptional analytical skills to assist clients across diverse industries. She expertly assesses the economic and operational implications of business decisions, identifies and overcomes risks and roadblocks, and drives long-term improvements in client performance. Holly earned her MBA at Washington University with a concentration in strategy consulting. Erica Grant is an expert in the Leadership & Talent services division who has been with Lotis Blue for 11 years. With her deep knowledge and experience, Erica partners with senior leaders to design pragmatic personnel strategies that unlock the potential of their organization, leaders, and workforce and drive competitive advantage and sustainable growth. She is passionate about combining research-based methodology, behavioral science and practical business savvy to design solutions that deliver real, sustained results with an eye to human experience. Erica earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts from Columbia College Chicago. John King is a seasoned consultant with 15 years of industry experience, including tenure at McKinsey & Company. John leads client engagements in the Operating Model division tackling complex and interrelated challenges in business and people processes, organization design, operating models, and supporting tools and systems. His expertise enables clients to overcome barriers to desired growth and execution challenges and maximize their ability to deliver exceptional customer and shareholder value. John earned his MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, with concentrations in analytic finance, econometrics and statistics, and international business. These Partner promotions highlight Lotis Blue’s long-term commitment to deliver high-quality services to its clients while fostering an empowering environment for its employees. With its expertise in combining data-driven insights with behavioral science, the company is well-positioned to help clients navigate complex business issues, drive growth, and achieve their transformational goals in challenging times. At the intersection of growth and transformation, you’ll find Lotis Blue Consulting. We dig deep with personal attention and analytical rigor to uncover, define, and implement the smartest path forward for your organization. In doing so, we transform your most ambitious visions into a clear and sustainable reality. Contact Details MKPR Meir Kahtan +1 917-864-0800 mkahtan@rcn.com Company Website https://www.lotisblueconsulting.com

June 07, 2023 10:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Heart of the Neighborhood: Honoring and Supporting Local Businesses

YourUpdateTV

When local businesses thrive, neighborhoods thrive. And in a time when neighborhood businesses face unprecedented challenges, we witness the power of community spirit. Recently, Caty Kobe, Nextdoor's Head of Community conducted a satellite media tour to highlight the efforts and initiatives underway to ensure our local businesses not only survive but thrive. A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://youtu.be/HE5jF2FDdZc Local businesses form the heart and soul of our communities. In addition to providing goods and services, these businesses create jobs, contribute to the local economy and bring character to the community. So, to say thank you to those who don’t take a summer break, Nextdoor, the neighborhood network, hosts an annual ‘for neighbors, by neighbors’ awards celebrating and spotlighting the local businesses that are beloved by their customers. Recognizing the top 1% of local businesses on Nextdoor, the 7th annual ‘Neighborhood Faves’ award campaign has just kicked off, inviting neighbors to honor the local businesses they love most. From June 1 to June 30, neighbors on Nextdoor can vote for all of their favorite businesses across 20 categories, from their go-to restaurants, brunch spots and cafes, wellness and home services providers, and more. Celebrating your favorite local businesses with a Neighborhood Fave vote is an amazing way to support your local economy and to spread the word about the places you love. Head over to the Nextdoor app or visit nextdoor.com/faves to vote for your favorites. Because when local businesses thrive, neighborhoods thrive. Neighborhood Faves winners will be announced in July. See the 2023 Neighborhood Faves Awards official rules for more information. To connect with your local neighborhood, download the app or login at nextdoor.com. About Nextdoor Nextdoor (NYSE: KIND) is where you connect to the neighborhoods that matter to you so you can belong. Kindness is core to our purpose: to cultivate a kinder world where everyone has a neighborhood they can rely on. Neighbors around the world turn to Nextdoor daily to receive trusted information, give and get help, get things done, and build real-world connections with those nearby — neighbors, businesses, and public services. Today, neighbors rely on Nextdoor in more than 305,000 neighborhoods across 11 countries. In the U.S., 1 in 3 households uses the network. Nextdoor is based in San Francisco. For additional information and images: nextdoor.com/newsroom. About Caty Kobe Caty Kobe is Head of Community at Nextdoor, responsible for overseeing the global moderation program. She's a rescue dog mama, an avid gardener, a karaoke enthusiast, and a proud San Franciscan. Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

June 07, 2023 09:34 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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DiscoverIE Group expecting "higher contribution from acquisitions" this year

discoverIE Group PLC

DiscoverIE Group PLC (LSE:DSCV) CEO Nick Jefferies speaks to Proactive following the release of preliminary results for the twelve months to 31st March 2023 - a period he says the electronic component manufacturer was "very happy with." He gives his take on the highlights from the year before turning to the future, noting the likelihood of lower organic growth as the tailwinds from the Covid-19 pandemic continue to ease. "As we move into a lower organic growth environment... this year going forward its going to be the opposite - slightly lower organic growth but with a higher contribution from acquisitions." Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

June 07, 2023 05:17 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Plurilock Security announces 1Q financial numbers showing a doubling of revenue

Plurilock Security Inc.

Plurilock Security CEO Ian L. Paterson joined Steve Darling from Proactive to share news the company has released its first-quarter financial numbers and the strategic acquisitions of Integra and Atrion appear to be paying off, with a doubling of revenue year over year to 15.8 million dollars. Gross margins have also increased to 13.6% in 1Q 2023 from 6.6% in Q1 2022. The company also saw 16 sale orders and contract renewals. Plurilock remains open to potential acquisitions, taking advantage of market opportunities. Paterson also told Proactive the company has made a key hire, naming Scott Myers as its new chief financial officer. Paterson telling Proactive Myers has 20 years of experience working at large multinational firms including Canadian Komatsu Ltd., Schneider Electric SE, Kinectrics, Liberty Health Sciences and React Gaming Group. Contact Details Proactive +1 347-449-0879 action@proactiveinvestors.com Company Website https://www.proactiveinvestors.ca/

June 06, 2023 01:58 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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ARway Corp hails Apple on the release of its Vision Pro Headset

ARway

ARway chief product officer Shadnam Khan joined Steve Darling from Proactive to share news the company has given its congratulations to Apple on the release of its Apple Vision Pro Headset which the company believes will be a massive boost for the augmented reality industry. Khan telling Proactive ARway currently provides software solutions for products like Magic Leap 2 and HoloLens 2, and it intends to distribute its indoor navigation and 3D technology with the Apple ecosystem. Khan emphasized that AR is already part of the Apple ecosystem, with their apps and technology optimized for iOS devices. ARWAY.ai aims to be the gateway for software development in spatial computing, enabling app makers to transform their 2D apps into immersive experiences on Apple's headsets. Contact Details Proactive Investors Canada +1 604-688-8158 na-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

June 06, 2023 01:34 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Technology

SIGMA Announces 14mm F1.4 DG DN | Art – the World’s First 14mm F1.4 Lens – Designed Especially for Astrophotography

Kaleidoscope Welcomes Jason Von Bank as New CEO to Drive Innovation and Growth

The Path to Full Transparency in Silver Production: The Launch of trueSilver by SMX (NASDAQ: SMX)

Crossword Cybersecurity says second half "looking really good"

Lotis Blue Consulting Announces Partner Promotions to Strengthen Advisory Teams Across Key Practices as the Firm Fosters a “Grow from Within” Culture

Heart of the Neighborhood: Honoring and Supporting Local Businesses

DiscoverIE Group expecting "higher contribution from acquisitions" this year

Plurilock Security announces 1Q financial numbers showing a doubling of revenue

ARway Corp hails Apple on the release of its Vision Pro Headset