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The Prelude Network® (Prelude), the largest provider of comprehensive fertility services and clinics across North America, announces today that 13 of its clinics have been named an America's Best Fertility Clinic in 2026.

In 2026, reproductive medicine is rapidly evolving, with fertility clinics becoming advanced centers that use AI, genomics, and automation to improve outcomes and broaden access to care. As IVF becomes increasingly mainstream in the U.S., demand for high-quality fertility services continues to grow.

For the fourth consecutive year, Statista and Newsweek collaborated to identify the top fertility clinics in the United States, recognizing 140 clinics in this year’s ranking. Only facilities classified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as fertility clinics and assisted reproductive technology (ART) providers were included in the scope of the evaluation. Each clinic was assigned a composite score based on four key components, including:

• Quality metrics based on 2022 CDC-reported cycle data
• A nationwide survey of reproductive endocrinologists, infertility specialists, obstetricians/gynecologists, registered nurses, and laboratory assistants who work in and refer patients to fertility clinics
• Accreditation data from organizations including The Joint Commission (JCI), College of American Pathologists (CAP), Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA), and the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM)
• Patient satisfaction from Google reviews

Those Prelude clinics recognized with the America's Best Fertility Clinics 2026 award include Advanced Fertility Center of Chicago; Aspire Fertility Austin; Aspire Fertility Dallas; Aspire Fertility San Antonio; Aspire Houston Fertility Institute; IVFMD; Main Line Fertility; NYU Langone Fertility Center; NYU Langone Reproductive Specialists of New York; Pacific Fertility Center; Reproductive Biology Associates; Tennessee Fertility Institute and The Reproductive Medicine Group.

“Inception Fertility is honored to see the clinics within The Prelude Network recognized for their continued excellence,” said TJ Farnsworth, Founder and CEO of Inception Fertility, the parent company to Prelude. “This acknowledgment speaks to the dedication across our teams to push the boundaries of reproductive medicine while delivering thoughtful, individualized care to every patient. It’s rewarding to see that commitment reflected in meaningful recognition like this.”

About The Prelude Network

The Prelude Network® (Prelude), the fastest-growing network of fertility clinics and largest provider of comprehensive fertility services in North America, is the clinic network of Inception Fertility — a family of fertility brands that touches every part of the fertility journey, including diagnostics and treatment to financial accessibility. Each clinic, as part of Prelude, is committed to delivering the highest level of personalized fertility care by the nation's leading reproductive endocrinologists, embryologists and practitioners by focusing on excellence in science, medicine and the patient experience. The growing Prelude Network has more than 90 total locations nationwide, offering a wide range of fertility services including egg freezing, IVF, genetic testing, LGBTQ+ fertility options, and egg/embryo storage, among others. Clinics within Prelude include Aspire Fertility Austin (Texas); Aspire Fertility Dallas (Texas); Aspire Fertility San Antonio (Texas); Aspire Houston Fertility Institute (Texas); Advanced Fertility Center of Chicago (Illinois); Center for Reproductive Medicine (Florida); Indiana Fertility Institute (Indiana); IVFMD (Florida); Main Line Fertility (Pennsylvania); NYU Langone Fertility Center (New York); NYU Langone RSNY (New York); Pacific Centre for Reproductive Medicine (Canada); Pacific Fertility Center (California); Regional Fertility Program (Canada); Reproductive Biology Associates (Georgia); Reproductive Science Center of New Jersey (New Jersey); Tennessee Fertility Institute (Tennessee), and The Reproductive Medicine Group (Florida). For more information, visit www.preludefertility.com.

About Inception Fertility

Inception Fertility™ (Inception) is a family of fertility brands committed to helping patients build their own families. Built by patients for patients, Inception's purpose is to achieve the highest bar in experience, science and medicine in an effort to enhance each patient's experience and achieve better outcomes. Inception's medical experts are leading pioneers in fertility care. Our doctors are some of the first to use breakthrough assisted reproductive technologies (ART) — including in vitro fertilization (IVF), preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) and fertility preservation services — and they continue to lead the industry by building on these technologies by through development, research and thought leadership. Through its growing family of national organizations — which includes The Prelude Network®, the fastest-growing network of fertility clinics and largest provider of comprehensive fertility services in North America; MyEggBank®, one of the largest frozen donor egg banks in North America; BUNDL Fertility™, a multi-cycle fertility service bundling program; HavenCryo™, a long-term reproductive preservation and storage solution provider and NutraBloom®, a premium lifestyle brand with expertly formulated supplements to support individuals' health and wellness goals for preconception — Inception is working to deliver on its promise to push the envelope of what is possible for exceeding patient expectations. For more information, visit www.inceptionfertility.com.

Media Contact

Mia Humphreys
MHumphreys@kruppagency.com
+1 239-297-6592

The Oblist, a platform curating collectible furniture, art, and lifestyle objects from international galleries and creators, presents the exhibition “Objects We Collect and Live With” with a vernissage at Ogata in Paris. The exhibition brings together a selection of pieces that illustrate current developments in how interiors are conceived, assembled, and valued.

“Objects We Collect and Live With” examines the transition of home design from decoration to an alternative asset class. It also points to increasing interest from high-net-worth individuals in collectible design and the growing relevance of curated interiors as portfolios of functional art. Objects are presented with attention to origin, material, and authorship, reinforcing their position within timeless collections.

Interiors as an Asset Class

Across global markets, interior ؜design ؜is gaining ؜recognition ؜؜as ؜a category associated ؜with long-term ؜value. High-net-worth collectors ؜are allocating attention and capital toward collectible ؜design, including ؜Art Deco furniture, limited-edition works, and historically significant pieces. These ؜objects are acquired ؜؜with consideration for provenance, rarity, and durability.

This development highlights a shift away from short-cycle consumption toward acquisition driven by permanence and authorship. Objects such as vintage end tables or hand-produced seating are evaluated in a manner comparable to art, where condition, origin, and scarcity influence their position within a collection.

The Oblist and Its Network of Designers and Galleries

The Oblist is a curated platform for collectible design, connecting collectors with a network of galleries and independent designers. Its selection draws on years of research across periods, cultures, and production techniques, with a focus on pieces that carry distinct visual and material identities.

Co-founded by Paris-based creative Leia Sfez and her husband, a marketing specialist, The Oblist was established to encourage discovery and access to singular works. The platform prioritizes pieces made to order or produced in limited quantities, supporting production methods that reduce excess and favor longevity.

Material and Design Philosophy

The exhibition emphasizes material composition and method of construction. Timber, metal, and ceramics are presented with visible surface variation, joinery, and texture. Irregularities are retained in the finished objects rather than removed during production. Construction details remain visible, with an emphasis on structural honesty.

Each piece is designed for use within interior settings while maintaining an independent form. This creates a balance between function and autonomy in both production and presentation.

A New Generation of Designers

“Objects We Collect and Live With” includes work from emerging designers who represent the “New Guard” within collectible design. Their practices are defined by limited series, experimental processes, and a rejection of industrial standardization.

Many of the designers produce works that emphasize scarcity and authorship, with each piece showing a unique approach to material and form. Materials are handled in ways that retain their natural characteristics, allowing each work to reflect how it was made.

The selection presents a range of practices where design is closely connected to fabrication, resulting in objects that differ in form, finish, and construction.

Acquisition and Selection in Interior Design

The exhibition highlights changing attitudes toward interiors. Modern interiors are moving from decoration to curated environments, where acquisition is guided by long-term value and careful selection.

The collection’s core message, “What We Collect Becomes What We Value,” is reflected in how spaces are assembled. Each piece contributes to the experience of a space, carrying material, cultural, and functional significance. Interiors are understood as collections that emphasize continuity over replacement.

By presenting these works within a single setting, The Oblist provides a view into how design is integrated into daily life with long-term consideration. Its “Objects We Collect and Live With” exhibition links individual pieces to broader patterns of acquisition and use, where durability, authorship, and material presence guide selection.

About The Oblist

The Oblist is a digital platform curating a unique selection of furniture, art, and lifestyle works. Working with international galleries and creators, the platform focuses on craftsmanship and timeless aesthetics. Each piece is selected for its design significance and history, offering collectors access to rare works worldwide. For more information, visit oblist.com.

Media Contact

Leia Sfez
CEO, The Oblist
marketing@oblist.com
+33 1 89 71 83 63

Mylio, the privacy-first photo organization platform trusted by photographers, families, and digital archivists worldwide, today announced the launch of a recurring monthly webinar series designed to help users unlock the full potential of Mylio Photos. The live sessions will cover topics including AI-powered photo search, cross-device synchronization, duplicate removal, family library setup, and more.

Why It Matters

The program comes in direct response to growing demand from Mylio's active user community, where members regularly seek guidance on managing photo libraries that can span decades, multiple devices, and hundreds of thousands of files.

"The more content we create, the harder it becomes to preserve what truly matters," said Alex Tsepko, CMO at Mylio. "Families today aren't failing to document their lives — they have thousands of photos spread across phones, laptops, and clouds. The real problem is that this abundance buries the memories we care about most."

What to Expect

Each webinar will be led by Mylio's product experts and is open to all users — from first-time subscribers to long-time power users. Sessions are designed to be practical and hands-on, walking participants through real workflows inside the app. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions live and get direct answers from the team.

Mylio Photos is available across iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS, and is built around a simple but powerful idea: users should own and control their memories. Mylio never mines photo data, never compresses originals, and never locks users into a proprietary ecosystem. Photos sync privately across devices — including offline — using peer-to-peer technology, with no mandatory cloud uploads required.

The webinar series will address some of the most common challenges users face — including how to consolidate scattered libraries from multiple devices and hard drives — how to use Mylio's AI face recognition and smart search without sending data to outside servers, and how to set up Mylio Family so multiple generations can contribute to and access a shared photo archive.

"We built Mylio for people who understand that their memories are irreplaceable," said Tsepko. "These webinars are our way of making sure every user — no matter their technical background — can get the most out of the software and keep those memories safe."

How to Register

Upcoming webinar dates and registration links are available at community.mylio.com/events. All sessions are available to Mylio subscribers.

About Mylio

Mylio is a privacy-first media organization platform for individuals, families, and businesses. It unifies photos, videos, and documents from any device or source into a single, searchable library — with no cloud lock-in, no data mining, and no compromises on privacy. Mylio Photos is available on iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS. Learn more at mylio.com.

Media Contact

Alex Tsepko
Chief Marketing Officer, Mylio
alex@mylio.com

Ryder Toys, a company that designs and sells premium battery-powered ride-on vehicles for children, has been acquired by Daniel Pahl, a veteran digital marketing executive with more than 20 years of e-commerce experience. The transaction was completed on March 31 and Pahl has assumed the role of CEO.

Now headquartered in Los Angeles, Ryder Toys sells a range of electric ride-on cars, off-road buggies, go-karts, ATVs, mini bikes and licensed replica vehicles from brands including Mercedes-Benz, Lamborghini, Jeep and Ford. The company’s products span 6-volt, 12-volt, 24-volt and 48-volt models designed for children ages one through their early teens, with prices ranging from entry-level options to premium vehicles. Ryder Toys has been featured on The Kelly Clarkson Show and recognized by Car and Driver as a top maker of electric ride-on cars for kids.

Pahl spent the bulk of his career in senior digital marketing roles at major consumer brands. He served as VP of media and acquisition marketing at TechStyle Fashion Group, the parent company of Savage X Fenty, Fabletics and JustFab, where he helped scale annual revenue from $300 million to more than $1 billion. Earlier in his career, he held multiple roles at eBay, including head of search engine marketing. More recently, he worked as a fractional VP of growth at Chameleon Collective, consulting for brands including Vera Bradley, Lord & Taylor, Good American and The Children’s Place.

Pahl said he began actively searching for a business to acquire in August 2025 after years of advising companies as a consultant.

“As a consultant, you don’t fully control the fate of the business,” Pahl said. “I wanted to take everything I’ve learned over 20 years and apply it to growing a business on my own terms.”

When he found Ryder Toys, Pahl said the product quality and business fundamentals immediately stood out as extremely strong. During his due diligence, he also identified digital marketing opportunities that could be used to accelerate growth, making the company a perfect fit for what he was looking for.

“The previous owner built a great foundation,” Pahl said. “With my background, I saw a clear growth engine I could activate right away.”

Pahl is already implementing new digital marketing and social media strategies and plans to expand Ryder Toys’ product lines and pursue brand partnerships with iconic Los Angeles institutions, from sports teams and entertainment properties to police and fire departments and museums.

Originally from Germany, Pahl said the acquisition represents a personal milestone as much as a professional one.

“I grew up in East Germany behind the Iron Curtain, learning that capitalism was the worst thing in the world,” Pahl said. “Now I’m running my own company. I never would have imagined this, but I love what I’m doing.”

Pahl credited the previous owner for building a strong brand and said the transition was smooth.

“The seller was fantastic throughout the entire process,” Pahl said.

He said maintaining product quality will be central to the company’s growth. Ryder Toys employs a quality assurance team at the manufacturer and conducts additional checks when products arrive in the United States. The company sells exclusively through its own website, rydertoys.com.

About Ryder Toys

Ryder Toys is a California-based company that designs and sells premium battery-powered electric ride-on vehicles for children. The company’s lineup includes licensed replicas of Mercedes-Benz, Lamborghini, Jeep and Ford vehicles as well as off-road buggies, go-karts, drift carts, ATVs and mini bikes spanning 6V to 48V power options. Ryder Toys has been featured on the Kelly Clarkson Show and in Car and Driver and sells directly to consumers at rydertoys.com. For more information, visit rydertoys.com.

Media Contact

Matt Pressberg
matt@pressbergmedia.com

CRA Marketplace and Black Lake Digital Markets today announced the launch of GATHER™, a comprehensive end-to-end institutional platform for sourcing, pricing, trading, transferring, and settling CRA-eligible mortgage assets. GATHER™ was conceived and built by Wayne Brown, a career mortgage banking professional with deep roots in community lending, correspondent finance, and CRA program design.

Powered by Black Lake’s proprietary auction technology, the GATHER™ platform helps banks manage their CRA obligation, turning a back-office challenge into a capital markets opportunity. GATHER™ supports the full spectrum of qualifying loan types across purchase, refinance, and specialty programs. It features a buy box matching engine built for precision lending decisions. This engine considers assessment area mapping, income and product eligibility, and portfolio gap analyses.

“GATHER is the platform I spent my entire career wishing existed,” said Wayne Brown, founder of GATHER™ CRA Marketplace. “It connects the originators producing CRA product with the banks that need it. And it does so efficiently, transparently, and with documentation that actually survives an examination.”

GATHER™ standardizes loan tape data from any originator format into a consistent, validated, institution-ready data structure at the loan level. This happens before loans are auctioned and managed in an end-to-end transaction, with systematic document exchange, exception handling, and servicer coordination.

The platform’s key capabilities include:

• Originator Sourcing Network: Direct pipeline from IMBs, community banks, credit unions, and mortgage companies producing CRA-eligible volume.
• CRA Eligibility Scoring & Documentation: Loan-level qualification powered by MATRIX™ against FFIEC income limits, census tract designations, program criteria, and exam standards. It produces examiner-ready output on every transaction.
• Buy-Box Matching Engine: Systematic, real-time routing of originator supply to bank buyers based on assessment area, income tier, product type, and CRA exam-cycle priority.
• Structured Price Discovery: Competitive auction formats and bilateral execution options that surface true market pricing and replace opaque bilateral negotiation permanently.
• Standardized Due Diligence Infrastructure: Consistent data rooms, documentation protocols, and eligibility packages. Every counterparty operates from the same verified information set.
• Automated Settlement & Post-Trade Workflow: Systematic execution from bid acceptance through final funding, document delivery, and servicer boarding. Powered by MATRIX™, which compresses timelines from weeks to days.
• Clean Loan Transfer & Boarding: Coordinated transfer of loan files, servicing rights, and compliance documentation to the receiving institution with full boarding support.
• Full Compliance Archive: Every transaction logged, time-tamped, and accessible. Designed for federal banking examiner scrutiny from day one.

“GATHER™ represents exactly the kind of institutional-grade infrastructure we built Black Lake to power,” said Al Qureshi, CEO and co-founder of Black Lake. “CRA compliance has long been a friction point between originators and banks, and we're proud to provide the technology backbone that eliminates that friction at scale.”

GATHER™ is available immediately to qualified institutional participants. Lenders, investors, and servicers interested in learning more about the platform or participating in upcoming auctions can learn more at gathermarkets.net.

About Wayne Brown

Wayne Brown, the founder of GATHER™ is a career mortgage banking professional with expertise in community lending, correspondent finance and CRA program design. As a former Senior Director of the Freddie Mac Cash Desk, Wayne spent over a decade working strategically with banks and credit unions across the nation around affordable products & deal structure. Wayne brings this unique experience to the GATHER™ program. In addition, Wayne’s career spans decades at the intersection of regulatory obligation and capital markets execution. This perspective allows Wayne to serve both sides of the originator–bank relationship, and Wayne is excited to finally deploy a scalable solution to the industry.

About Black Lake Digital Markets

Black Lake Services, LLC d/b/a Black Lake Digital Markets (“Black Lake”) operates a comprehensive end-to-end mortgage technology ecosystem spanning underwriting, pricing, trading, transfer, settlement, tokenization, and third-party staging. By unifying every stage of the mortgage lifecycle on a single platform, Black Lake delivers institutional-grade infrastructure that makes mortgage markets faster, more transparent, and more efficient for all participants.

Black Lake is the marketing name for a group of affiliated companies providing a range of services. All services are provided through separate agreements with each company. This material is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide specific advice or a specific recommendation. Black Lake Investment Solutions LLC (“Black Lake”) wholly owns Black Lake Services LLC d/b/a Black Lake Digital Markets and Black Lake Investments LLC. Black Lake Digital Markets offers proprietary technology services for the pricing, trading, and transfer of mortgage assets.

Black Lake does not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Black Lake is not a licensed insurance company and does not underwrite or sell insurance products.

Forward-Looking Statements

The statements contained herein may contain certain forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are, by their nature, subject to significant risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements may include, without limitation, statements relating to the companies business prospects, future developments, trends and conditions in the industry and geographical markets in which the company operates, its respective strategies, plans, objectives and goals, ability to control costs, operations, margins, and overall market trends.

When used herein, the words "anticipate," "believe," "could," "feel," "estimate," "expect," "going forward," "intend," "may," "ought to," "plan," "project," "seek," "should," "will," "would" and similar expressions, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect Black Lake and Ascendant’s current views with respect to future events and are not a guarantee of future performance or developments. You are strongly cautioned that reliance on any forward-looking statements involves known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Actual results and events may differ materially from information contained in the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors, including any changes in the laws, rules and regulations relating to any aspects of company’s business operations, general economic, market and business conditions, including capital market developments and changes or volatility in interest rates, and developments of the company’s competitors.

Subject to the requirements of applicable law, neither Black Lake nor Ascendant intends to update or otherwise revise such forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. As a result of these and other risks, uncertainties and assumptions, forward-looking events and circumstances discussed herein might not occur in the way Black Lake or Ascendant expects, or at all.

Accordingly, you should not place reliance on any forward-looking information or statements. All forward-looking statements herein are qualified by reference to the cautionary statements set forth in this disclaimer.

Geely Auto Group celebrates a monumental milestone in global motorsports. During the FIA TCR World Tour at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, Geely Auto achieved a historic first victory with the all-new Geely Preface TCR, driven by Chinese driver Ma Qinghua.

In Race 2 at the renowned Italian circuit, Ma delivered Geely Auto’s first victory in stunning style. Starting from third on the grid, Ma launched quickly into a frantic battle for the lead. The defining moment arrived on lap six, when he executed a decisive move to seize control of the race. Managing the distance to the chasing pack until the chequered flag, Ma secured a landmark win for Geely Motorsport Group, raising the Chinese national flag and cementing a proud moment for Chinese automotive brands and the Chinese people on the world stage.

The Geely Preface TCR, a testament to the extensive testing and development by the global team, made an immediate impact throughout its debut weekend. Alongside Ma's triumph, Kumho FIA TCR WORLD TOUR defending champion Yann Ehrlacher secured a historic first podium for Geely with a third-place finish in the 15-lap Race 1 opener. Furthermore, Thed Björk joined his teammate on the podium in Race 2, underscoring the strong foundational pace and competitive viability of the new vehicle.

Geely has consistently pursued challenges, viewing the fiercely competitive environment of international racing as a place to hone its people and technology. Securing strong championship points early in the season serves as a vital reward for the dedicated project teams operating across China and Europe. As the team prepares for the hotter, more demanding circuits of Valencia, Paul Ricard, and Vila Real, Geely Auto Group will continue to push the continuous development of the Preface TCR. By showcasing its speed and commitment to technological innovation, Geely will continue to hone its engineering prowess through these challenges, delivering exceptional performance and excitement to motorsports fans worldwide.

About Geely Auto Group

Geely Auto Group is a leading global automotive company headquartered in Hangzhou, China. A part of Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, Geely Auto Group develops and manufactures passenger vehicles under the Geely, Lynk & Co, and Zeekr brands. Geely Auto achieved cumulative sales of 3,024,567 units in 2025, exceeding the full-year sales target with a year-on-year growth of 39%. New energy vehicle (NEV) sales reached 1,687,767 units, a year-on-year increase of 90%. With a strong focus on technology innovation, electrification, and sustainable mobility, Geely Auto Group operates world-class R&D centers and manufacturing facilities across China, Europe, and key international markets. The Group is committed to delivering safe, high-quality, and intelligent vehicles enabled by advanced technologies such as hybrid powertrains, full-electric architectures, smart connectivity, and autonomous driving systems. As a global company, Geely Auto Group continues to expand its international presence through strategic partnerships, localized operations, and industry-leading platforms. Geely strives to create mobility solutions that are greener, smarter, and more accessible, driving forward the future of sustainable transportation.

NOTAPE™, an innovative zipper technology brand, will debut its tape‑free, stitch‑free zipper technology at European Outdoor Week (EOW) 2026, taking place from May 17–19, 2026, in Riva del Garda, Italy. The company says the technology is designed to simplify zipper construction, reduce reliance on conventional zipper tape and stitching, and support lighter, cleaner and more sustainable outdoor apparel manufacturing.

Breaking a Century‑Old Convention: From Addition to Subtraction

For more than 130 years, most zipper designs have continued to rely on a tape-and-teeth architecture, even as materials, finishes and production processes have evolved. NOTAPE offers what it describes as a new approach by removing conventional tape and stitching from zipper construction.

Three Core Values for Outdoor Fashion

Built on three decades of R&D and eight years of intensive testing, NOTAPE has developed a tape-free, stitch-free zipper structure that integrates zipper teeth directly with fabric. The brand has received international design recognition, including Red Dot “Best of the Best” and ISPO “Best Product” awards, according to company-provided information.

1. Design Aesthetics: Invisible Integration

Conventional zippers typically use a “teeth + tape” structure, creating a layered build-up of tape, stitches and fabric that can add thickness and stiffness to lightweight garments. NOTAPE’s tape-free zipper adopts a one-piece integrated construction, with zipper teeth attached directly to the fabric.

The company says this structure allows the zipper to become a natural extension of the fabric itself, helping reduce bulges and wrinkles on windbreakers, sun-protection jackets and ski jackets, while supporting the minimalist and lightweight design direction of modern outdoor apparel.

2. Functional Breakthrough: Waterproof, Lightweight & Durable

Conventional waterproof zippers rely on film or coatings applied to the tape. However, tape absorbency, needle holes, and coating wear can limit long-term reliability. Unlike conventional waterproof zippers, NOTAPE’s Structural Engineered Anti-Leak Technology (SEAL) removes the absorbent tape and needle holes. Through precision teeth attachment directly with the fabric, it creates a physical barrier — achieving waterproof performance without any film — that does not degrade with washing or abrasion.

The tape-free structure also reduces weight by over 30%, while the self-supporting teeth design delivers both thinness and strength.

3. Sustainable Innovation: 26.6% Carbon Reduction per Zipper

Conventional zipper tape requires spinning, weaving, dyeing, and setting — each step consuming energy and water while generating wastewater, emissions, and solid waste. Dyeing, in particular, is a major source of pollution. Moreover, the tape adds complexity to garment recycling.

NOTAPE’s “subtraction innovation” eliminates the tape from the source and delivers measurable environmental benefits, supported by TÜV-certified data provided by the company. The tape-free, stitch-free process reduces resource consumption by up to 95% by eliminating energy-intensive steps such as tape weaving, dyeing, sewing, and transportation. The company says the carbon footprint reduction is fully traceable. Backed by eight years of R&D, NOTAPE demonstrates how tape-free structures can reshape design, manufacturing efficiency, and supply chain collaboration. By turning the zipper into a grown-in function of the garment, NOTAPE™ opens new possibilities for lighter, more efficient, and more sustainable outdoor apparel. Join us at EOW 2026 to experience this next-generation zipper technology firsthand.

NOTAPE’s Global Debut at EOW

Europe is the key market for outdoor innovation, and EOW brings together over 350 leading brands, designers, buyers, and media. On site, the brand will share eight years of R&D insights, exploring how tape‑free structures can reshape design, manufacturing efficiency, and supply chain collaboration.

From a “sewn‑on part” to a “grown‑in function”, NOTAPE opens new possibilities for the outdoor fashion industry. Join us at EOW — Outdoor Trade Show, May 17–19, 2026, Riva del Garda, Italy.

Advances in medical aesthetics are increasingly being shaped by specialist-led approaches, particularly in highly precise fields such as oculoplastic surgery. Among practitioners working in this area is Dr. Yıldız Acar Ebcim, a board-certified oculoplastic surgeon based in Istanbul, whose work focuses on the complex anatomical structures of the eyelids and surrounding facial region.

With more than a decade of clinical experience, Dr. Ebcim has developed an integrated upper face rejuvenation approach that combines multiple surgical and non-surgical techniques within a single treatment plan. The model is designed to address both functional and aesthetic considerations in the periocular region, where precision is critical and outcomes must balance both appearance and eye function.

The approach reflects a broader shift in patient expectations. Increasingly, international patients are seeking natural-looking results, shorter recovery times, and procedures performed by specialists with focused anatomical expertise. Rather than pursuing dramatic or exaggerated changes, many patients are prioritising subtle refinements that align with their natural facial structure.

“In oculoplastic surgery, precision and experience are everything,” said Dr. Ebcim. “We are now treating patients from different parts of the world who are specifically seeking advanced eyelid and midface procedures performed with modern, minimally invasive techniques.”

Dr. Ebcim’s integrated approach typically combines procedures such as upper and lower eyelid surgery, including almond eye surgery and hunter eye surgery, brow and midface lifting, and tissue-support techniques including micro fat grafting. These are planned as part of a cohesive strategy rather than as isolated interventions, allowing for more balanced and consistent outcomes across the upper facial region.

Treatments may also be supported by adjunctive technologies such as laser-based skin treatments and regenerative applications, depending on patient suitability and clinical assessment. This layered approach enables a more comprehensive focus on skin quality, structural support, and long-term stability of results.

Unlike traditional cosmetic procedures that focus on isolated corrections, the integrated model aims to address the periocular region holistically. This includes preserving natural facial expression, maintaining eyelid function, and achieving anatomically balanced outcomes that remain consistent over time.

Oculoplastic surgery is widely regarded as one of the most technically demanding areas within aesthetic and reconstructive medicine. The proximity to the eye and surrounding structures means that both functional and aesthetic considerations must be managed simultaneously. Even minor inaccuracies can affect vision or eye health, making specialist training and detailed anatomical understanding essential.

Dr. Ebcim’s work places particular emphasis on careful surgical planning and precision-based execution. By combining multiple techniques within a single treatment framework, the approach aims to reduce the need for staged procedures while supporting more cohesive results.

As patient awareness continues to grow, there is increasing interest in procedures that offer refined, natural-looking outcomes without compromising facial identity. Within this context, integrated approaches such as those developed by Dr. Ebcim are becoming more relevant for patients seeking specialist-led care in oculoplastic surgery.

About Dr. Yıldız Acar Ebcim

Dr. Yıldız Acar Ebcim is a board-certified oculoplastic surgeon based in Istanbul, Türkiye, specialising in upper facial aesthetics. Her expertise focuses on upper and lower blepharoplasty (including transconjunctival techniques), brow lift, and midface lift procedures. She integrates advanced surgical approaches with complementary treatments such as fractional laser therapies and nano/micro fat grafting to enhance both functional and aesthetic outcomes. Dr. Ebcim treats hundreds of international patients each year and is recognised for her precision-driven approach, natural results, and patient-centered care in the field of oculoplastic surgery. For more information, visit www.yildizacarebcim.com.

Media Contact

Dr Yildiz Acar Ebcim
dryildizacar@gmail.com

TheGameRoom.org, a premier destination for tabletop game enthusiasts, hobbyists, and casual players alike, today announced a significant uptick in user engagement and content consumption across its platform — a trend the organization attributes to a growing cultural shift away from screen-based entertainment and toward face-to-face, offline social gaming experiences.

According to internal data reviewed by TheGameRoom.org, page visits to game guides, group activity recommendations, and “how to host a game night” content have surged by over 60 percent in the past twelve months. The platform, which offers reviews, tutorials, and community resources for board games, card games, party games, and tabletop role-playing games, reports that its user base is not only growing in size but changing in composition — with a notable increase in first-time visitors who describe themselves as new to the hobby.

“What we’re seeing is nothing short of a cultural recalibration,” said a spokesperson for TheGameRoom.org. “People spent years staring at screens for work, entertainment, and social connection. Now they’re actively seeking alternatives — experiences that put other human beings in the room with them. Board games, card games, and tabletop RPGs fit that need perfectly.”

Digital Fatigue and the Return to Analog

The phenomenon is consistent with broader consumer behavior trends observed across multiple industries. Research firms and cultural analysts have noted a measurable increase in demand for analog leisure activities — from vinyl records to printed books to, increasingly, physical games. TheGameRoom.org positions itself at the center of this renewed interest, offering curated content that helps both seasoned players and curious newcomers navigate an increasingly rich and diverse gaming market.

The numbers back this up on a global scale. According to aggregated data from Fortune Business Insights, Mordor Intelligence, and Polaris Market Research, the worldwide board game market reached approximately $15.8 billion in revenue in 2025 — a year-on-year increase of over 10 percent. With an estimated 420 million regular players worldwide, analysts project the market will grow to between $39 and $44 billion by 2034, outpacing many digital entertainment sub-categories. Adults aged 18 to 54 account for 85 percent of the global player base, decisively dispelling the notion that tabletop gaming is primarily a children’s hobby. Crowdfunding has emerged as a powerful engine of innovation, with Kickstarter alone raising $270 million for gaming projects in 2024 — 83% of which were tabletop titles.

The modern board game industry has evolved dramatically over the past decade. No longer limited to classics like Monopoly or Scrabble, today’s tabletop landscape features thousands of titles spanning complex strategy games, cooperative adventures, quick-play party formats, and richly narrative role-playing experiences. With over 5,000 new titles published annually, TheGameRoom.org serves as a trusted guide through this landscape, helping players match the right game to the right group and occasion.

“The barrier to entry has never been lower,” the spokesperson added. “You don’t need to be a hardcore hobbyist to enjoy a great evening of gaming. Our goal is to help anyone — families, friend groups, coworkers — find the experience that works for them.”

Community and Connection at the Core

Beyond game recommendations, TheGameRoom.org has placed a strong emphasis on community-building resources. The platform features a regularly updated event calendar highlighting local gaming meetups, conventions, and game store events across multiple regions. Forum activity has increased substantially, with users sharing session recaps, house rules, and game night hosting tips.

The organization also partners with schools, libraries, and community centers to promote tabletop gaming as a tool for social development, creative thinking, and intergenerational connection. Several educational institutions have cited TheGameRoom.org as a resource in their afterschool and enrichment programming.

“There’s a real social hunger out there,” the spokesperson noted. “Games give people a structured, low-pressure reason to sit together, talk, laugh, and occasionally argue about the rules. That’s irreplaceable.”

Looking Ahead

TheGameRoom.org has announced plans to expand its content library throughout 2026, with a focus on beginner-friendly guides, game night planning tools, and regional community spotlights. The platform is also developing a matchmaking feature to help players find others with similar interests in their local area.

About TheGameRoom.org

TheGameRoom.org is an independent online destination for board game enthusiasts worldwide. Offering in-depth game reviews, market insights, community forums, and curated recommendations, the platform connects millions of players with the games that matter most to them. Visit us at www.thegameroom.org.

Media Contact

TheGameRoom.org Information
info@thegameroom.org

Boudreaux Hunter & Associates, LLC, a Houston-based family law firm serving clients throughout the Greater Houston area, is proud to announce that attorney Parker Pinnell has joined the firm as an Associate Attorney.

Ms. Pinnell represents clients in divorce and a wide range of family law matters, bringing a client-centered approach focused on compassion, clarity, and strong advocacy. At Boudreaux Hunter & Associates, she works alongside the firm’s experienced legal team to help individuals and families navigate emotionally complex legal issues involving divorce, child custody, child support, marital agreements, and related family law disputes.

“Parker’s dedication to client service and her commitment to helping families through difficult transitions make her an outstanding addition to our team,” said Kevin Hunter, partner at Boudreaux Hunter & Associates, LLC. “She demonstrates the professionalism, empathy, and determination that our clients expect from our firm.”

Ms. Pinnell earned her Juris Doctor from Loyola University New Orleans in 2024 and is licensed to practice law in Texas. According to the State Bar of Texas, her practice focuses on family law matters in Houston.

“I’m honored to join Boudreaux Hunter & Associates and work with a team so deeply committed to supporting families during some of the most challenging moments of their lives,” said Pinnell. “I look forward to advocating for our clients and helping them move forward with confidence.”

Learn more about Parker Pinnell’s experience.

Boudreaux Hunter & Associates, LLC is devoted exclusively to family law and represents clients in matters involving divorce, child custody, child support, enforcement actions, modifications, LGBTQ family law issues, mediation, premarital agreements, and other domestic relations matters. The firm is known for its personalized representation and commitment to keeping clients informed and empowered throughout the legal process.

About Boudreaux Hunter & Associates

Based in Houston, Boudreaux Hunter & Associates, LLC is a family law firm dedicated to helping clients resolve complex legal matters with strategic guidance and compassionate advocacy. The firm serves clients throughout the Houston metropolitan area and focuses exclusively on family law.

The firm is located at 3555 Timmons Lane, Suite 1510, Houston, Texas 77027. For more information, call (713) 333-4430, email concierge@bhlawtexas.com, or visit bhlawtexas.com.

Media Contact

Boudreaux Hunter & Associates
concierge@bhlawtexas.com
+1 713-333-4430

LUYUAN Group wrapped up its 2026 Global Partner Conference on May 5, coinciding with the 32nd China International Bicycle Fair. The company debuted its all scenario e-mobility portfolio. More than 100 core dealers and ecosystem partners from nearly 20 countries and regions attended the event.

The conference underscored a clear strategic shift. LUYUAN is moving from product export to capability export, and ultimately toward ecosystem export.

Six global innovation centers were officially inaugurated. LUYUAN launched a global strategic partnership with KOVE MOTO, champion of the 2026 Dakar Rally. The “Carbon Trailblazers · Pioneer Initiative” Global Program was also kicked off.

Three New Pillars: Materials, Intelligence, Lifestyles

LUYUAN introduced a three-pillar product upgrade strategy: New Materials, New Intelligence, and New Lifestyles. Four global premiere models turned this strategy into tangible products on the show floor.

New Materials: Lighter, Cleaner, Fully Recyclable

The LYVA M05 is the world’s first E-MTB built on a one-piece die-cast magnesium alloy frame. Co-developed with Qingyang Baomei Precision Manufacturing Co., it uses an exclusive magnesium alloy that resists corrosion 10 times better than conventional magnesium. The frame is about 30% lighter than aluminum. Lifecycle carbon emissions drop by one-half to two-thirds. The material is 100% recyclable.

For dealers facing carbon tariffs and tighter environmental rules, the M05 is a quantifiable ESG solution — not just a lightweight product.

LUYUAN and Qingyang are now scaling the “Carbon Trailblazers · Pioneer Initiative” into a global program. The plan is to recruit 10,000 riders worldwide over two years. Based on company estimates, if 10,000 riders transition from fuel-powered vehicles to electric transportation for five years, the shift could reduce carbon emissions by approximately 22,000 metric tons — equivalent to the annual carbon absorption capacity of roughly 1.2 million trees.

New Intelligence: Empowering Performance

The S86 electric motorcycle debuted globally. It is the first mass-production model on LUYUAN's liquid-cooled smart powertrain. Peak power reaches 5,000 W. Top speed is 80 km/h. Safety features include ABS and TCS. A TFT smart display runs LUYUAN Smart OS 3.0.

The technology behind it has already been tested in more challenging scenarios. LUYUAN and DOBOT co-developed an embodied intelligent shopping-guide robot dog. The same motor-control and electronic systems power these robots. After rigorous validation in robotics, the technology trickles back into two-wheelers. Partners receive a proven platform, not an experiment.

New Lifestyles: From Racing to Everyday Riding

The EMX250 off-road electric motorcycle made its global premiere. Co-developed with KOVE MOTO, it shares the architecture of the championship bike and packs LUYUAN's liquid-cooled smart powertrain. It targets off-road enthusiasts, overland explorers, and riders who demand extreme performance.

At the conference, LUYUAN and KOVE MOTO formally launched their global strategic partnership. They will combine KOVE MOTO’s race-proven architecture with LUYUAN's core EV technology. The goal: high-performance electric motorcycles for global markets.

Meanwhile, LUYUAN’s cycling lifestyle brand LYVA uses e-bikes to bring electric-assisted riding to more riders worldwide.

On the exhibition floor, LUYUAN displayed a full-scenario product matrix: high-speed electric motorcycles, sport e-bikes, swappable-battery two-wheelers, and electric tricycles. A modular product architecture fits diverse country requirements. For dealers, it means less complexity and lower inventory risk.

"One Core, Two Wings": A Synergistic Architecture

The “Three New” strategy runs on an open architecture called “One Core, Two Wings.”

The One Core is LUYUAN’s deeply rooted two-wheeler business. With over 400 million units on the road, it is the world’s largest testing ground for core technologies at massive scale.

The Two Wings are overseas markets and embodied intelligence. The core business supplies mature technology platforms and reliable supply chains to overseas markets. Global market demands push product standards higher. The core business also provides mechatronic capabilities to embodied intelligence applications. Robotics-level R&D feeds back to strengthen the technology moat. LUYUAN has also formed an ecosystem partnership with Youlu Robotics to expand the application of intelligent powertrain technology.

“The ‘One Core, Two Wings’ are not three separate business units,” said Hu Jihong, founder and CEO of LUYUAN Group. “They form an organic system that empowers each other. The core technologies share the same foundation, but the value boundaries reach much further.”

Six Innovation Centers: Pivots for Localized Operations

A central strategic move at the conference was the unveiling of six overseas innovation centers across Europe, Asia, and Africa, each with distinct functions:

• The German center works closely with BMW on R&D and engineering.
• Spain and Nigeria centers serve as benchmark markets for replicable localization. 
• Thailand and Uzbekistan centers use joint ventures to set up production lines and shorten delivery radii.
• The Singapore center explores new models like battery swapping and leasing.

For dealers, these centers mean localized support: nearby supply, nearby training, and nearby service.

“None of these six centers is called a sales office,” Hu emphasized. “We are not just shipping products out. We are building capabilities on the ground. LUYUAN is ready to share the technology, supply chain know-how, and service methodology we have built over 30 years — openly, with all our global partners.”

A Top-Tier Partner Matrix Co-building a New Ecosystem

During the event, LUYUAN finalized annual contracts with core dealers from nearly 20 countries. Notably, LUYUAN's matrix of global top-tier partners was showcased collectively for the first time: BMW (technology licensing and German engineering standards), Qingyang Precision (exclusive magnesium materials and die-casting), KOVE MOTO (Dakar-winning vehicle architecture), and DOBOT & Aloft Robotics (deep joint R&D in embodied intelligence).

For global dealers, this matrix delivers a clear message: they are not just representing a single brand, but a comprehensive technological ecosystem supported by the top forces across multiple industries.

From its "Three News" product strategy to the "One Core, Two Wings" structural support, and from the six global innovation centers to its elite partner matrix, LUYUAN has delivered a complete blueprint for its leap from "Made in China" to a "Global Ecosystem Platform." For partners worldwide, this guarantees a more reliable technological foundation, highly flexible localized support, and a continuously evolving global co-creation network.

About LUYUAN Group

LUYUAN Group is a China-based manufacturer of electric two-wheeled vehicles focused on the design, research, development, and production of electric scooters, bicycles, and motorcycles. Founded in 1997, the company has grown into a leading player in the electric mobility industry, serving customers in more than 80 countries and regions through an extensive global distribution network. With multiple manufacturing facilities across China and millions of units in annual production capacity, the company continues to advance sustainable transportation solutions for urban and commercial mobility worldwide. For more information, visit www.luyuangroup.com.

Media Contact

Jin Yiyu
media@luyuan.cn

Costway, a home and lifestyle brand, recently highlighted its complete cooling lineup for everyday comfort. As home comfort needs continue to diversify, consumers are increasingly looking for cooling solutions that can support different rooms, usage habits, and seasonal demands. Costway’s complete cooling lineup is designed to meet those needs with a wide range of options — including mini split air conditioners, ice makers, fans, heat pumps, and portable air conditioners — that give households more flexible options for managing comfort across different spaces and daily needs. 

A Complete Cooling Lineup for Everyday Comfort 

With its latest cooling lineup, Costway continues to reflect its “More Than Just Furniture” brand philosophy. Its complete cooling lineup consists of:

• Mini split air conditioners
• Residential and commercial ice makers
• Portable air conditioners
• Heat pumps
• Fans

Costway’s complete cooling lineup includes mini split air conditioner options for different room sizes, as well as ice maker and commercial ice maker solutions for both household and small business use. 

Together, this complete cooling lineup gives consumers more flexible ways to manage cooling and heating across different spaces and usage scenarios. The addition of competitive pricing and fast delivery helps further position Costway as a convenient brand for innovative home comfort solutions.

Product Highlight: Smart Mini Split AC System

At the center of Costway’s complete cooling lineup is the X-Pro 18000 BTU 2-Zone mini split AC with heat pump. 

Designed for modern homes, this mini split air conditioner offers multi-zone temperature control, allowing users to cool or heat different rooms separately for more personalized comfort. This makes it especially useful for households where comfort needs vary from room to room throughout the day. 

The X-Pro range includes models rated up to 24 SEER2, helping support energy-efficient heating and cooling performance. This helps users enjoy efficient cooling performance while keeping energy use more manageable over time. The system also uses R454B refrigerant, which supports efficient performance with lower global warming potential. 

With a capacity range of 9,000 to 36,000 BTU, Costway’s mini split units can cool everything from individual bedrooms to large living areas.

Key features of the X-Pro mini split AC system include:

• 2-Zone Climate Control: Allows users to adjust temperature in different zones separately for more personalized comfort and more efficient use of energy. 
• Robust Performance: Works optimally to provide cooling and heating ranging from -13°F to 131°F
• Smart System Capabilities: Compatible with WiFi and voice command-based systems (e.g., Alexa, Google Assistant); features multiple modes and fan speeds

Product Highlight: Spray-type Ice Makers

As a supplement to its various air-cooling equipment, Costway is releasing another innovative product as part of its one-stop solution lineup: the Stainless Steel Spray Ice Maker.

This product combines home convenience and industrial capability in one package. With its spray system, this device creates crystal-clear, harder-to-melt ice compared to traditional ice cubes from other machines.

This ice maker has the ability to generate up to 80 pounds of ice daily and store up to 30 pounds of ice at a time, making it powerful for both high-traffic homes and small commercial businesses.

What’s more, Costway’s ice maker features “set and forget” convenience, adjustable ice thickness settings, and self-cleaning.

Convenient Installation Support for Customers

To better support customers purchasing mini split AC systems, Costway works with a professional installation team in California, offering end-to-end setup services for its clients. This installation support is a key differentiator for Costway, helping it stand out from its competitors.

Save On Cooling Solutions with Costway’s “Cooling Week” Promotion

During Costway’s Cooling Week promotion from May to August, customers who purchase qualifying cooling products will have the chance to receive an additional cooling product for free. A total of 200 free products will be given away.

About Costway

Founded in 2011 in the United States, Costway aspires to become a world-class furniture and diverse home products company. With a global network of branches and robust overseas warehouse infrastructures, the company leverages its supply chain advantages to source and sell products worldwide. Its “More Than Just Furniture” motto signifes Costway's dedication to creating comprehensive lifestyle solutions for its customers. Today, they are renowned for various home appliances, furniture, and outdoor solutions — providing consumers with a wide selection of quality products at reasonable prices. Costway has served over 100 million households across North America, Australia, and Europe, with annual sales exceeding $2.2 billion. 

Media Contact

Amber Lu
service@costway.com

The digital commerce sector is currently defined by "stack fatigue" — the diminishing returns of managing dozens of disconnected software tools. Today, Inspiration Factory signaled a definitive shift in the industry with the unveiling of FlowMagnet 4.0 TITAN. Rather than adding another tool to the pile, the TITAN release introduces a comprehensive "Operating Layer" designed to unify fragmented digital infrastructures into a single, responsive ecosystem.

This milestone represents a strategic pivot toward what the firm calls "integrated reality," merging advanced AI administration, cinematic broadcasting, and automated customer journeys.

eviaOS: The Intelligence of "Breathing Technology"

The technical core of the FlowMagnet ecosystem is eviaOS, a proprietary engine that moves beyond the rigid, "if-this-then-that" logic of traditional automation. By utilizing Breathing Technology, eviaOS monitors user behavior in real-time to execute autonomous resonance tests. This allows the digital environment to adjust its own parameters dynamically, optimizing dwell time and relevance without human intervention.

This intelligence powers a full-funnel system, utilizing dynamic and variable landing pages. The result is a storefront that functions as a living interface, evolving its presentation instantly to meet the specific psychological and data-driven needs of each visitor.

Neo and Ally: The Autonomous Administrative Network

Communication in the FlowMagnet architecture is treated as a core utility rather than an external plugin. Through a proprietary framework, the system deploys AI Super-Agents, Neo and Ally, to act as a 24/7 administrative network. These agents do not merely answer queries; they manage lead communication chains and provide contextual data to both internal teams and prospects at every critical stage of the decision-making process.

Cinematic Production in a Virtual World

As the demand for professional-grade digital events rises, FlowMagnet 4.0 TITAN debuts a Live-Panel architecture. By blending studio-quality production standards with cinematic storytelling, the platform enables brands to move away from standard video calls toward high-fidelity digital broadcasts that maintain the interactivity of a live session.

"We are moving past the concept of sales as a simple sequence of steps," says Hannes Sommer, founder of Inspiration Factory. "FlowMagnet 4.0 TITAN treats sales as a continuous, interactive system. By bringing structure and communication into one environment, we have built a solution that creates a significant gap between our partners and the rest of the market."

Deployment and Global Availability

The official production rollout for FlowMagnet 4.0 TITAN is scheduled for late May 2026. To ensure the integrity of the infrastructure, the platform is reserved exclusively for official partners and strategic co-creation projects developed under the guidance of Inspiration Factory. The system’s centralized interface is engineered for rapid deployment, allowing organizations to scale team structures internationally with minimal operational friction.

About Inspiration Factory

Based in North Carolina and operating internationally, Inspiration Factory LLC is a specialized developer of digital infrastructure and AI-driven systems. The firm focuses on the intersection of advanced artificial intelligence and user-centered design to build the next generation of commerce ecosystems. For more information, visit flowmagnet.net.

Media Contact

Support Team
contact@inspirationfactory.net

Energía 2000 announced that its Manzanillo Power Land thermoelectric facility is now contributing approximately 15% of the Dominican Republic’s total installed electricity generation capacity, marking a major milestone for the country’s energy infrastructure.

Located in Pepillo Salcedo, Montecristi, the 414 MW natural gas-powered plant represents an investment of approximately $1.05 billion and has become a significant contributor to national grid capacity, based on sector estimates and public data from the Ministerio de Energía y Minas.

The project was developed over more than 14 years, during which its legal, regulatory, and financial structure was established to align with international standards. The plant is owned and operated by Energía 2000, with operations supported by international partners across fuel supply, generation technology, and plant management.

To enable the project, a 128-kilometer high-voltage transmission line was constructed across multiple provinces, connecting the facility to the national grid. An auxiliary dock was also developed in the Bay of Manzanillo to support logistics during construction.

The development and operation of Manzanillo Power Land generated more than 3,000 direct and indirect jobs, primarily benefiting local communities in Montecristi and surrounding provinces.

The project also secured co-financing from multiple international financial institutions, each conducting independent due diligence on the plant’s technical, regulatory, and financial structure prior to committing capital.

Guillermo Estrella Ramia, a corporate attorney and co-investor in Energía 2000, contributed to structuring the project’s legal and financial framework, including regulatory approvals, land rights, power purchase agreements, and financing arrangements.

About Energía 2000

Energía 2000 is a private Dominican company engaged in the development, ownership, and operation of energy infrastructure projects, focused on large-scale power generation and long-term grid capacity. For more information, visit energia2000rd.com.

Media Contact

RD Noticias Team
info@rdnoticias.com.do

Bsign Inc., a manufacturer of custom signs for commercial and residential interiors, has reached a significant production milestone of 400,000 custom signs produced since its founding in 2018. The milestone unit — a custom door sign featuring the number 203 — was completed this month.

The achievement reflects sustained growth in demand for personalized architectural signage across the hospitality, corporate, healthcare, and residential sectors. Bsign's product range spans door signs, room numbers, nameplates, directional signs, floor indicators, and ADA signage — all manufactured using a combination of CNC laser cutting, UV printing, and hand-finishing techniques.

From Startup to Scale

Founded in 2018, Bsign started as a small-scale operation focused on personalized door signs. Over the past seven years, the company has expanded its catalog to include comprehensive wayfinding solutions for multi-story buildings, hotel chains, office complexes, medical facilities, and residential developments.

"Reaching 400,000 signs is a milestone that belongs to our entire team", said Andrew Stychinskij, founder of Bsign. "Every sign we produce is made to order — there is no mass production. Each piece is designed for a specific space, a specific door, a specific client. That approach is what got us here, and it's what will carry us forward."

The company currently operates with a team of 20 and ships to customers across the United States and internationally, with plans to expand into the Canadian market later this year.

Product and Material Focus

Bsign's production is centered on three core materials: wood, stainless steel, and acrylic glass. Each sign is manufactured individually, with options for custom dimensions, typography, color matching, and Braille integration for ADA-compliant environments.

The company's architectural signage is used across a range of building types, including boutique and chain hotels, Class A office buildings, coworking spaces, university campuses, and luxury residential developments. Recent collaborations include wayfinding solutions for the Caesars Palace and Marion hotel networks, with additional hospitality projects scheduled for later in 2026.

Industry Context

The custom signage segment has seen consistent growth as property developers, architects, and interior designers increasingly treat signage as part of the design specification rather than a last-minute procurement item. The demand for wayfinding solutions that integrate with interior design concepts — matching materials, finishes, and typography to the broader spatial identity — has driven growth for manufacturers who offer customization at scale.

Bsign's production model, which combines digital fabrication technology with individual hand-finishing, positions the company to serve both large-scale commercial projects and individual residential orders from a single workflow.

About Bsign

Bsign (bsign-store.com) is a manufacturer specializing in custom signs for commercial and residential interiors. Founded in 2018, the company designs and produces door signs, room numbers, nameplates, directional signs, floor indicators, ADA-compliant signage, and comprehensive wayfinding solutions for hotels, offices, medical facilities, educational institutions, and residential buildings. All products are manufactured to order using wood, stainless steel, and acrylic glass, with CNC laser cutting, permanent UV printing, and individual hand-finishing. Bsign serves clients across the United States and internationally, with a team of 20 professionals. The company has produced over 400,000 custom signs since its founding. For more information, visit bsign-store.com

Media Contact

Andrew Stychinskij
info@bsign-store.com
+1 323-843-0781

BuySellVouchers today announced the integration of USD Coin (USDC) as a payment method on its platform, enabling users worldwide to purchase digital products with a fast, stable, and flexible cryptocurrency option.

As cryptocurrency adoption continues to expand, platforms are increasingly focused on bridging digital assets with real-world use cases. While crypto payments have historically faced challenges related to volatility and usability, stablecoins such as USDC introduce a more practical model for everyday transactions.

BuySellVouchers is designed to address this shift by enabling seamless payments for digital goods using a stable, dollar-pegged asset that supports efficient global transactions.

The platform operates as a global marketplace for digital products, offering users access to gift cards, gaming content, subscriptions, and online services. With the addition of USDC, customers can complete purchases without relying on traditional payment systems, reducing friction in cross-border transactions.

“Crypto payments are evolving beyond trading into everyday utility. By integrating USDC, we are enabling a payment experience that combines the speed of blockchain with the stability users expect for daily purchases,” said Sergej Balanel, Director at BuySellVouchers.

The USDC integration allows users to purchase a wide range of digital products, including game gift cards for platforms such as Steam, PlayStation, and Xbox, as well as in-game currencies, entertainment subscriptions like Spotify and Netflix, and digital services including Discord.

To support a wide range of users and wallets, BuySellVouchers enables USDC payments across multiple blockchain networks. These include Polygon for low-cost and fast transactions, BEP20 for cost efficiency, and ERC20 for broad compatibility across exchanges and wallets.

The platform prioritizes simplicity and speed in the checkout experience. Users can select a product, choose USDC as the payment method, complete the transaction using their preferred network, and receive their digital code shortly after confirmation.

By leveraging USDC, BuySellVouchers combines the advantages of blockchain-based payments with the reliability of a stable digital currency. Transactions are processed quickly, fees are reduced compared to many traditional methods, and users maintain flexibility in how they transact globally.

Following each transaction, users receive their purchased digital goods instantly, reinforcing a model where crypto payments directly support real-time digital consumption.

The addition of USDC reflects a broader transition toward practical cryptocurrency adoption. As digital commerce continues to evolve, platforms that integrate stable, efficient, and globally accessible payment solutions are expected to play a central role in shaping the future of online transactions.

About BuySellVouchers

BuySellVouchers is a global digital marketplace that enables users to purchase gift cards, gaming products, subscriptions, and digital services from leading brands. The platform is designed to provide fast delivery, flexible payment options, and worldwide accessibility, helping users seamlessly access digital products using both traditional and cryptocurrency payment methods. Learn more at www.buysellvouchers.com.

Disclaimer

BuySellVouchers is a secondary marketplace. The purchase of digital gift cards involves risks, including merchant-specific redemption restrictions. USDC is a stablecoin pegged to the U.S. Dollar, but users are responsible for managing their own private keys and ensuring network compatibility (Polygon, BEP20, ERC20). This announcement does not constitute financial advice. Digital assets are subject to regulatory oversight in various jurisdictions; please consult your local laws before transacting.

Media Contact

Partnership Department
partners@buysellvouchers.com

Financial risk and cybersecurity leader Alejandro Mijares has expanded his advisory work through his firm, Mijares Consulting, following recognition from Marquis Who’s Who for his contributions to the financial services sector. 

With nearly two decades of experience spanning risk management, auditing, cybersecurity and regulatory compliance, Mr. Mijares advises financial institutions on managing IT and digital risk. This specialty has positioned him as a trusted adviser to boards, chief executives and senior leaders across the Americas.

Alejandro Mijares’ Background in Consulting

Mr. Mijares built his financial career on a solid foundation of education. He holds a Bachelor of Science in accounting and information systems from California State University, Chico, and a Master of Science in management information systems from Florida International University in Miami. He is also a certified professional with credentials including the Certified Information Systems Auditor, Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control and Critical Incident Stress Management certifications, all issued by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association. 

Before founding Mijares Consulting, Mr. Mijares held several senior roles, including vice president of risk and information security at United Data Technologies and IT risk director for banks at Kaufman, Rossin & Co. His early career achievements included IT consulting and auditing roles at leading firms such as Deloitte and PwC.

Building Mijares Consulting

Founded in August 2023, Mijares Consulting is dedicated to turning digital risk into a competitive advantage for the organizations it serves. The firm provides precision-driven risk services, including strengthening governance and helping secure digital transformations for financial institutions. 

Mr. Mijares operates as a strategic partner to his clients by blending traditional expertise with his advanced analytics talents. The firm currently serves a growing client base across Miami, Puerto Rico and Panama. 

Expanding Into Data Science and Artificial Intelligence

One of Mr. Mijares' ambitions for his company is to expand its data science and artificial intelligence (AI) business line. The firm is currently leading the integration of an AI model within the audit department of a bank in Panama. His work with them reflects his long-standing interest in new technologies, which led him to pursue AI and machine learning (ML) certifications through courses at institutions such as MIT Professional Education. 

Over the past decade, Mr. Mijares’ notable achievements with Mijares Consulting include assisting 11 banks in addressing complex issues, achieving a 100% success rate. This accomplishment demonstrates the thoroughness of his work, his meticulous attention to detail and the trust he has built within the banking sector.

Mr. Mijares witnessed the rise of cloud computing, the growing importance of cybersecurity and the emergence of AI, developments that continue to drive his commitment to ongoing learning and adaptation. He also views his success as a reflection of his journey as an immigrant who used education and professional opportunities in the United States to build a distinguished career.

About Alejandro Mijares (Mijares Consulting)

As the founder and CEO of Mijares Consulting, Alejandro Mijares helps financial institutions turn digital risks into competitive advantages. With 20 years of expertise in risk management, auditing, cybersecurity, innovation and regulatory compliance, he has advised boards, CEOs, and senior executives on navigating disruptions, resolving enforcement actions and building digital resilience. Mr. Mijares specializes in assisting banks with enforcement actions, specifically addressing matters requiring attention (MRAs) issued by regulators. For more information, visit mijares.consulting.

About Marquis Who's Who

Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who’s Who in America®, Marquis Who’s Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who’s Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms worldwide. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who’s Who® website, marquiswhoswho.com.

Media Contact

Marquis Who's Who
info@marquiswhoswho.com

Agnes Scott College, a nationally acclaimed liberal arts college located in Decatur, Georgia, today announced that it has been ranked in the top 5% of colleges for women in the nation in Newsweek's America's Best Colleges for Women 2026.

“At Agnes Scott, we believe the world is better when more women are at the table, in the lab, in the boardroom and in public life,” said Leocadia I. Zak, president of Agnes Scott College. “This recognition reflects our commitment to making that a reality for every student who walks through our doors.”

Every element of the Agnes Scott experience is designed with one goal in mind: sending women into the world ready to lead. At the heart of that preparation is the nationally recognized Summit curriculum, designed to ensure every undergraduate graduates as a critical thinker, a clear communicator and an ethical leader with a global perspective. The result is graduates who are ready to contribute from day one, in whatever field or community they choose.

This recognition from Newsweek underscores what defines Agnes Scott: a college grounded in the enduring promise of women’s education. That mission lives in every dimension of an Agnes Scott education — in the academic rigor that sharpens the mind, the global learning that expands perspective, and the intentional focus on leadership and career preparation that helps students step confidently into the world.

America’s Best Colleges for Women is a ranking developed by Newsweek in partnership with Gender Fair to highlight institutions that support gender equality and empower women. The methodology is rooted in the Women’s Empowerment Principles and evaluates colleges across four key areas: leadership, pay and policies, safety, and opportunity.

The ranking identifies colleges that have established the structural elements necessary to foster education and employment for women by drawing on data from the U.S. Department of Education — including the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and the Campus Safety and Security Database — as well as additional desk research. Only institutions meeting specific criteria for size and academic roles are included, ensuring the results reflect meaningful progress toward gender equity in higher education.

“Choosing a college is a defining moment for many young women, and it’s about more than academics alone,” said Jennifer H. Cunningham, Editor-in-Chief of Newsweek. “America’s Best Colleges for Women highlights institutions that are making measurable progress in leadership, equity, safety, and opportunity, helping students identify environments where women are supported and positioned to succeed.”

About Agnes Scott College

Agnes Scott is a nationally acclaimed liberal arts college located in Decatur, Georgia — minutes from Atlanta’s dynamic tech and corporate hubs, influential civic organizations and world-class cultural institutions. Driven by a mission to educate women to think deeply, live honorably and engage the intellectual and social challenges of their times, Agnes Scott offers students a rigorous academic foundation with an innovative, globally focused Summit undergraduate curriculum and high-demand graduate studies programs proven to prepare students for professional success. Recognized as a national leader in innovation and academic excellence, Agnes Scott has been ranked the No. 1 Most Innovative liberal arts college in the country for an unprecedented eight years in a row by U.S. News & World Report. This year, the college ranked No. 2 for First-Year Experiences, No. 4 for Social Mobility and is in the top 10 for Undergraduate Teaching. With a strong commitment to access, equity and intellectual curiosity, Agnes Scott prepares graduates to excel in high-demand fields and to lead lives of purpose. To learn more about Agnes Scott College, please visit www.agnesscott.edu.

Media Contact

Jaime Hunt
Interim AVP of Marketing and Communications, Agnes Scott College
jhunt@agnesscott.edu

PatSnap, an AI-native intelligence platform for IP, R&D, and Life Sciences, today announced its Synapse platform is now available within FactSet’s workstation. 

FactSet clients can now access Synapse within the Sectors & Insights application to explore global biopharma deal trends and pipeline landscapes. This integration expands PatSnap’s presence in financial services, allowing investment professionals to seamlessly navigate complex asset-level data such as R&D stage, IP position, therapeutic profile, and clinical activity, for more informed market and investment analysis.

Biopharma M&A deal value more than doubled in 2025, rising 133% vs. 2024 to reach $133 billion, the second highest level in five years (J.P. Morgan, 2026). Since 2018, more than 70% of new drug revenues have come from externally sourced products (McKinsey, June 2025), highlighting the growing importance of robust scientific and pipeline evaluation for investment decisions.

"The biopharma investment landscape has never been more complex or more consequential," said Jeffrey Tiong, founder and CEO of PatSnap. "Patent cliffs are reshaping competitive dynamics, R&D costs are rising, and the science behind an asset, its pipeline stage, IP position, and modality, is increasingly what separates a strong bet from an expensive mistake. By bringing Synapse directly into FactSet's workflow, we're giving financial professionals the scientific intelligence they need to act with conviction."

“Integrating PatSnap’s Synapse intelligence into the FactSet Workstation allows our clients to bridge the gap between clinical R&D and financial analysis,” said William Downing, Director of Deep Sector Healthcare at FactSet. “By delivering seamless pipeline and IP visibility within existing workflows, we are enabling clients to identify market signals in the biopharma sector with greater speed and precision.”

About PatSnap

Founded in Singapore in 2007, PatSnap is a global leading AI-native innovation intelligence company. Leveraging domain-specific AI agents and robust analytics tools, PatSnap empowers IP and R&D teams to unlock insights, accelerate discoveries, and protect breakthroughs. Trusted by more than 18,000 enterprises, law firms and research institutions in over 50 countries including one-third of the world’s largest R&D spenders, PatSnap transforms how organizations innovate and make critical decisions. Learn more at www.patsnap.com.

About FactSet

FactSet (NYSE: FDS | NASDAQ: FDS) provides integrated financial data and analytical applications to investment professionals across the buy-side, sell-side, wealth management, private equity, and corporate sectors. The company serves more than 9,000 global clients and over 241,000 individual users across 19 countries. Learn more at www.factset.com.

Media Contact

Kate White
media@patsnap.com

Coco Coders, the live online coding and AI literacy program for children ages 6 to 14, closed a $2.5 million seed round led by Homegrown Capital Fund I in May 2024. The raise marked a significant milestone for the company, which has grown from $500,000 in annual recurring revenue (ARR) at the time of the raise to $1.5 million in ARR as of May 2026. Coco Coders is now setting its sights on expanding students’ AI literacy and deepening school partnerships across the United States.

The round includes participation from Amrock Ventures Limited (U.K.), Iowa Venture Capital Co-Investment Fund, Nevada Battle Born Growth Escalator, South Dakota Impact Fund 1, Wonder Fund North Dakota, and a community of individual investors through a WeFunder crowdfunding campaign.

A Growth Story Built on Demand

Since launching its live, instructor-led subscription model, Coco Coders has grown to serve students across all 50 states, the U.K., and more than 10 countries. The program's rotating four-week, theme-based modules connect coding and AI concepts to real-world industries and careers, meeting kids where their interests are and building technical fluency alongside critical thinking from an early age.

The triple ARR growth since the seed close reflects what the company has long believed. Parents, educators, and communities are actively seeking programs that prepare kids for a technology-driven world, and they are not waiting for traditional school systems to catch up.

Elizabeth Tweedale, CEO and founder of Coco Coders, describes the company as not only a platform for teaching kids to code but also a program intentionally built to give them the foundations to understand, question, and build with the technology that will define their futures. The demand they’ve seen has shown that families are catching on.

Investor Confidence Rooted in Track Record

Homegrown Capital led the round with conviction in both Coco Coders' growth trajectory and the broader K-12 AI education market opportunity. Amrock Ventures, a London-based venture firm, joins the round as a returning backer, having previously supported Elizabeth in one of her prior companies. Their continued investment signals confidence not just in the product but in the team building it. South Dakota Impact Fund 1 was another private capital venture fund excited to back the impactful business making strides towards educational change. 

State-aligned investments from the Iowa Venture Capital Co-Investment Fund, Nevada Battle Born Growth Escalator, and Wonder Fund ND further reflect the regional momentum the company has built and the appetite across multiple states to see this kind of education take root in their communities.

The round also included a WeFunder crowdfunding segment, acquiring parents, educators, and community members who are personally invested in Coco Coders' mission. For a consumer-facing brand, the voice of its participants is especially validating.

Expanding Access Where It Matters Most

A core focus of the funding is bringing Coco Coders' curriculum into schools across Iowa, Nevada, North Dakota, and South Dakota. These states display a clear gap between the technology education kids need and what schools currently offer, and are actively working to provide their constituents with future-ready education. These communities that understand what is at stake in the AI era are hungry for the right partnerships and programs to evolve faster.

Nevada has been pushing to modernize education and close opportunity gaps for its students. North Dakota, with its expansive rural communities and rich indigenous heritage, represents exactly the kind of place where the right infrastructure can create a substantial impact. Iowa and South Dakota are similarly leaning in, with government initiatives to advance tech literacy, data science, and cybersecurity education, with a focused urgency in their curricula. These states are all aligned in their ideas, enthusiasm, and the efforts required to bring to life programs that give kids access to the skills the next economy will require.

Elizabeth Tweedale and her team at Coco Coders have pinpointed specific areas where providing top-tier tech education can have a life-altering impact. These efforts are strategically aligned with the strong local support found within those very communities. While expanding their consumer business remains a key priority, establishing robust foundations that ensure every child receives the foundational curriculum they need in their lives remains at the forefront of the company’s growth plans.

By providing a scalable delivery model and curriculum, Coco Coders works as a partner with educators, parents, institutions, and local communities who are actively engaged in the efforts to further and accelerate the expansion of educational opportunities for the next generation.

What Comes Next

With $1.5 million ARR, a global presence, and state-level investment partnerships now in place, Coco Coders is focused on the next stage of growth. It’s deepening its curriculum, expanding its teacher network, scaling its in-school programming across its four target states, and broadening its consumer outreach initiatives.

The company sees AI literacy as the defining educational priority of this moment, shaping how the next generation enters the workforce, approaches problems, and participates in an increasingly technology-driven world. The funding puts Coco Coders in a stronger position than ever to lead that conversation.

About Coco Coders

Coco Coders is a live online coding and AI literacy program for children ages 6–14, serving students across all 50 states, the U.K., and more than 10 countries. The program offers rotating, themed modules that connect coding and AI to real-world industries and careers, with a curriculum designed to accommodate all learning styles. Learn more at cococoders.com. For more information, visit www.cococoders.com.

Media Contact

Elizabeth Tweedale
elizabeth@cococoders.com