All posts by imreal

Gel Blaster and Microsoft’s 343 Industries Announce Licensing Deal to Bring the Halo Universe into the world of Water Ball Play


“We’re excited for our community around the world to have the opportunity to bring the Halo universe to life with Gel Blaster’s awesome line of products.” said John Friend, Head of Halo & Xbox Consumer Products. “With Halo’s incredible and expansive universe and Gel Blaster’s commitment to incredible looking products, we’re excited to craft a unique, fan-focused experience together.”

“Gel Blaster and our play experiences have taken over the world in the last few years, experiencing truly incredible growth. As we look to the future, we’re focused on immersive, technology-powered gaming, and there is no better franchise to build these new experiences around than Halo’s incredible gaming universe.” said Colin Guinn, CEO of Gel Blaster. “This marks just the beginning of the gaming plans Gel Blaster has for the future.”

The first licensed Halo products released by Gel Blaster will be announced in 2024, and available through Gel Blaster’s retail partners internationally.

Media Contact

Courtney Bustillos, Everything Branding, 8585278503, [email protected], https://www.everythingbranding.com/

SOURCE Everything Branding

‘Do Not Ever Divest of Hydrocarbons’


In the Bloomberg interview, Larry Fink said BlackRock are using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to examine physical climate risk and have really advanced models that can show where climate risk can have a real impact. “How should we invest in that? How should we think about that?” BlackRock offers “Aladdin Climate” risk analysis.

In an Oct. 21, 2022, presentation for the National Association of Scholars, climate policy analyst Roger Pielke, Jr. was critical of climate models used by the Network for Greening the Financial system, stating that the models used by central banks around the world are “wildly implausible and of questionable practical utility.” He notes that the implausible scenario known as Representative Concentration Pathway 8.5 (RCP8.5) is frequently employed.

Robert Lyman’s report “Between the Implausible and the Impossible” shows how this scenario distorts climate policy. Climate analysts Roger Pielke, Jr. and Justin Ritchie have done an extensive review showing that RCP8.5 is used in all catastrophic forecasting. Without it, there is no climate emergency.

Climate activists have been raging against the fact that the upcoming global climate confab, the UN Conference of the Parties – COP28 – will be held in the United Arab Emirates with president-designate Sultan al-Jaber, CEO of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Co. But as reported by CTV News, Sept. 30, 2023. Sultan al-Jaber is an energy realist, too, who said: “Some are promoting the fact that we can just unplug the world from the current energy system and with a flick of a switch, we can just initiate a new energy system,” he said. “That doesn’t work. It won’t work. So, we need to sober up and be more realistic and more practical.”

In Alberta, Canada, Premier Danielle Smith has been trying to convey this type of message to Canada’s Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault. As reported by the Globe and Mail on Sept. 29, 2023, Smith and Guilbeault are facing off over proposed Clean Electricity Regulations which would put Alberta at risk of blackouts. This fear was confirmed by the Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO), at a press conference on Sept. 28, 2023. Friends of Science explainer offers a plain language discussion on Alberta’s grid challenges. In short, too rapid adoption of too many renewables; too rapid coal phase-out – not enough dispatchable power. The AESO reported there were seven near blackouts in the fall of 2022. Temperatures in Alberta can dip to minus 40 C/F in winter; blackouts pose a serious threat to life.

An op-ed by energy analyst and author Ronald Stein, published by CFACT on Oct. 2, 2023, discusses the “Dangerous Delusion of a Global Transition to ‘Just Electricity’“.

As reported by Physics.org on Sept 27. 2023, a new study shows that polar bears survived the last deglaciation, putting to bed a climate fear that had haunted Greta Thunberg from childhood.

In a 2016, interview with Friends of Science, Dr. Ian Clark, explained that polar bears are adaptable and survived the Holocene Hypsithermal some 8,000 years ago when Arctic sea ice melted. Dr. Clark will be one of Friends of Science Society’s guest speakers at their upcoming Oct. 17, 2023 event in Calgary – “Break Free from Climate Tyranny: Evidence Over Ideology.”

Dr. Clark was one of the first Canadian scientists to do a U-turn on the claim that carbon dioxide was causing catastrophic warming, as he relates in the 2008 documentary “Climate Catastrophe Cancelled.”

Friends of Science has posed the question in a video, “What if CO2 is Good for you?“

About
Friends of Science Society is an independent group of earth, atmospheric and solar scientists, engineers, and citizens that is celebrating its 21st year of offering climate science insights. After a thorough review of a broad spectrum of literature on climate change, Friends of Science Society has concluded that the sun is the main driver of climate change, not carbon dioxide (CO2).
Friends of Science Society
PO Box 61172 RPO Kensington
Calgary AB T2N 4S6
Canada
Toll-free Telephone: 1-888-789-9597
Web: friendsofscience.org
E-mail: contact(at)friendsofscience(dot)org
Web: climatechange101.ca

Media Contact

Michelle Stirling, Friends of Science Society, 8887899597, [email protected], https://friendsofscience.org/

SOURCE Friends of Science Society

Viewpoint will Partner with Oncologists and Physicians to Explore the Evolution of Head and Neck Cancer Treatment


The production team behind Viewpoint is dedicated to delivering a comprehensive and informative exploration of Head and Neck cancer treatment, aiming to increase awareness and understanding. Viewers can expect to gain valuable insights into the latest advancements in surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and other cutting-edge treatments.

The collaboration with reputable oncologists and physicians will offer a unique perspective on the evolving landscape of Head and Neck cancer treatment, highlighting the importance of early detection, patient care, and the promise of improved outcomes.

Viewpoint’s production team is currently in the planning stages for this pivotal episode, which is set to air at a later date in 2024. The show will provide viewers with an opportunity to hear directly from experts in the field and to gain a deeper understanding of the progress being made in the fight against Head and Neck cancers.

About Viewpoint:

Viewpoint is a nationally recognized television program hosted by Dennis Quaid that delves into a wide range of compelling and informative topics. With a commitment to delivering thought-provoking content, Viewpoint has become a trusted source for in-depth discussions on issues that matter most to viewers.

Media Contact

Development Division, Viewpoint with host Dennis Quaid, 561-244-7620, [email protected], www.viewpointproject.com

SOURCE Viewpoint with host Dennis Quaid

Building Momentum Through Caring Partnerships


Throughout the conference, each speaker presented to the audience topics that touched on important subjects, such as fostering a diverse and inclusive educational experience and the future of Workforce Development in healthcare. Dr. Mazur and Ms. Ramirez led the discussion on necessary change. They promoted equitable access to healthcare through partnerships and opportunities for educational advancement. In addition, session presenters and panels throughout the day examined innovative strategies for advancing healthcare education through caring science and innovative pedagogy.

Conference participants watched various experts in online learning, higher education leadership, and workforce development in order to gain valuable knowledge and insights. Valued sponsors and community partners like Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI) and Wolters Kluwer also attended this pioneering event and presented sessions on utilizing current technology to expand healthcare education.

“Our goal was to emphasize the significance of a collaborative approach to overcome the challenges of healthcare shortages,” said Dr. Abdel Yosef, Provost and Chief Academic Officer at Unitek Learning. “This conference focused on building equity and fostering caring partnerships across the healthcare and education industries. We believe that these partnerships are the foundation for achieving progress and making a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most. At Unitek Learning, we will continue to incorporate new innovative approaches as we expand our education offerings for the nation.”

Unitek Learning is the parent company of several distinguished learning institutions: Unitek College, Unitek EMT, Unitek Training Healthcare, Eagle Gate College, Provo College, and Brookline College. Unitek programs teach the clinical practices and theory used in the field today. Equipped with a multitude of sought-after skills, Unitek graduates are prepared to excel in many of the fastest-growing careers in healthcare and nursing.

Media Contact

Scott Tierno, Director of The Academic Leadership Academy, Unitek Learning, (949) 516-9215, [email protected], https://www.uniteklearning.com/

SOURCE Unitek Learning

Partner David J. Rashid recognized by Law Bulletin Media as a 2023 ‘Forty Under 40’ honoree


“I am humbled and honored to receive this distinction alongside some of the best attorneys in Illinois. I am thankful to my peers and mentors who took the time to share such kind feedback with the Law Bulletin. This is an accomplishment I will cherish for the rest of my career,” David J. Rashid said.

A native of Peoria, Illinois, Mr. Rashid has obtained successful results for clients throughout the state. He holds records for medical malpractice verdicts/settlements in Cook County, Richland County, and Crawford County. In recognition of his outstanding legal representation, Mr. Rashid has been honored by Illinois Super Lawyers, the National Trial Lawyers “Top 40 Under 40,” Best Lawyers in America, and in 2016 he was honored with a Law Bulletin Media “Trial Lawyer Excellence Award” for his role in a record setting verdict in Cook County.

Mr. Rashid holds memberships in the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association, the American Association for Justice, the Illinois State Bar Association, and the Chicago Bar Association.

In his free time, Mr. Rashid enjoys spending time with his three young children and his wife. He is an avid reader and sports fan.

For more information, please contact Marcie Mangan at (312) 372-1227 or [email protected]

Media Contact

Marcie Mangan, Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard, P.C., 3123721227, [email protected], www.salvilaw.com

Twitter

SOURCE Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard, P.C.



401GO Receives Most Category Awards from NAPA’s Advisor’s Choice


401GO, a leading provider of retirement plan solutions, is proud to announce that it has been honored with the most awards in the micro and small plans segments from the National Association of Plan Advisors (NAPA).

SALT LAKE CITY, Oct. 2, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — 401GO, a leading provider of retirement plan solutions, is proud to announce that it has been honored with over 20 awards in the small and micro plans segments from the National Association of Plan Advisors (NAPA). This prestigious recognition highlights 401GO’s commitment to excellence, technology and innovation in the retirement plan industry.

401GO was recognized as a top recordkeeper in the following areas: plan sponsor website, advisor support, participant statement, plan health, wellness and retirement income, education participant tools, calculators, mobile app, regulatory support, staff credentials, materials, and multilingual capabilities, These accolades serve as a testament to 401GO’s unwavering commitment to providing top-tier retirement plan solutions that empower individuals to plan for their financial futures.

“We are incredibly honored to receive the Advisors’ Choice for Top Recordkeepers in these categories,” said Dan Beck, CEO at 401GO. “Being recognized by NAPA advisors underscores our unique value, not only in the fintech space, but in the retirement industry as a whole. We’re poised to make a much-needed disruption to the small plan market, which has been vastly undervalued before now. Our team is ready to take on this challenge, and advisors clearly agree.”

The NAPA Advisors’ Choice is a prestigious honor within the retirement plan industry, and 401GO is proud to join the ranks of distinguished organizations that have been recognized for their outstanding contributions to the field.

401GO remains committed to its mission of providing cutting-edge retirement plan solutions that enable individuals to achieve their financial goals. This recognition from NAPA serves as a motivating force to continue innovating and advancing the retirement planning landscape.

About 401GO:

401GO provides a comprehensive retirement solution for small businesses and financial advisors with automation technology and industry-leading support.

Media Contact

Ryan Avila, 401GO, 1 801-214-2125, [email protected], 401GO.com

SOURCE 401GO

American Banker publishes its annual Innovation Readiness research report, providing insight into the practices that can help banks reach their innovation goals


“Banks are recognizing the need for strategic alignment, which goes beyond just tech adoption,” says Janet King, VP of Research at Arizent. “This means financial institutions need to shift toward a tech-driven organizational culture — one that prioritizes innovation, aligns it with technology and leverages fintech collaborations.”

Additionally, only 40% of banks strongly agree that their organization’s technology roadmap (including investment strategies) is aligned with key areas of innovation, indicating a potential missed opportunity for many. Despite substantial investment in tech and innovation programs, a gap persists between some of the technologies that financial institutions see as critical and the tech they have actually implemented, primarily with AI and cloud computing.

Survey respondents also reveal that culture and resourcing are the primary barriers to innovation at financial institutions. Two in five cite limited resources (limited recruiting or in-house expertise, limited budget or not enough time) as the primary block for efforts to drive innovation.

“Addressing this shortcoming demands a fundamental shift in company culture,” continues King. “Deliberately pursuing mergers and acquisitions, fintech investments and joint ventures can be a successful strategy, but it requires the organization to be ready to collaborate effectively in these new relationships.”

To read more details about the innovation journeys of financial institutions — including areas of focus, plans for AI, opportunities and challenges — download the full report here: https://www.americanbanker.com/research-report/the-key-to-finance-innovation-moving-beyond-tech-to-tech-driven-culture

Research Methodology

Arizent, the parent company of publications including American Banker, conducted an online survey in July 2023 of people who work for financial institutions (credit unions and banks, not financial technology companies) and insurance companies or carriers. A total of 179 U.S.-based respondents completed the survey, of which 110 are financial institutions and 69 are insurance companies or carriers. Of the 110 financial institutions surveyed, 77% are banks and 23% are credit unions.

For more information on this survey or other Arizent research, contact:
Janet King
Vice President, Research
Arizent
[email protected]
M 207-807-4806

About Arizent

Arizent is a business information company that advances professional communities by providing insights and analysis and convening industry leaders. The company uses deep industry expertise and a data-driven platform to deliver its services, which include subscriptions, marketing services, live events and access to Leaders, an executive forum. Arizent also connects business communities through leading financial services brands like American Banker, The Bond Buyer, Financial Planning and National Mortgage News, as well as professional services brands like Accounting Today, Employee Benefit News and Digital Insurance.

About American Banker

American Banker is the essential resource for senior executives in banking and financial services, keeping its users updated on vital developments and focusing sharply on their most important concerns — innovation, transformation, and disruption; technology, regulation, and reform. Financial industry professionals turn to American Banker, every day and throughout the day, to stay maximally informed — drilling down on complex issues, keeping up with breaking news, and downloading research and data.

About SoftServe

SoftServe is a premier IT consulting and digital services provider. We expand the horizon of new technologies to solve today’s complex business challenges and achieve meaningful outcomes for our clients. Our boundless curiosity drives us to explore and reimagine the art of the possible. Clients confidently rely on SoftServe to architect and execute mature and innovative capabilities, such as digital engineering, data and analytics, cloud, and AI/ML.

Our global reputation is gained from more than 30 years of experience delivering superior digital solutions at exceptional speed by top-tier engineering talent to enterprise industries, including high tech, financial services, healthcare, life sciences, retail, energy, and manufacturing. Visit our website, blog, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter pages for more information.

SOURCE Arizent