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Today, Havven, the next-gen social digital ecosystem built for the unapologetic, announced its official platform launch scheduled for February 4, 2026. Backed by the Mannx/Moonshotnx accelerator, Havven is entering the market, not as another "paywall platform," but as a high integrity sanctuary engineered specifically for the alternative, LGBTQ+, and kink communities currently marginalized by mainstream technology.

For years, adult creators and alternative communities have been treated as a "liability" by legacy social media, subjected to shadowbans, arbitrary censorship, and predatory algorithms. Havven is built on a different premise: What makes you different makes you the main event.

Havven arrives with a proprietary "Safety by Design" architecture that solves the industry's two biggest crises: privacy and piracy. By leveraging cutting edge AI in combination with proof of identity, Havven implements a frictionless, privacy preserving age verification system that ensures 100% regulatory compliance without ever compromising sensitive user data. 

This commitment to security is further fortified by our industry-first Anti-Piracy Fortress, a suite of proprietary screenshot and screen-recording deterrence technologies designed to actively prevent the "leakage" that currently costs creators millions in lost revenue annually. 

Together, these innovations move beyond simple moderation to create a high-integrity ecosystem where creator identity and digital assets are shielded by a true technical moat, ensuring that safety is the platform's standard, not an afterthought.

Alongside these safety measures, Havven will also employ a combination of both AI-driven and human moderators in an effort to uphold the standards the platform has set for itself. Images depicting anyone under the age of 18 will be strictly banned with no appeals, as well as any content that focuses on violence. The goal is safety for everyone on and off the platform.

In addition to fostering a truly inclusive community, Havven is disrupting the standard 80/20 revenue model by offering an industry leading 83/17 split, putting more capital directly into the hands of creators. 

Following the social platform launch on February 4, 2026, the ecosystem will expand in March with the debut of the Havven Marketplace. A unified commerce engine allowing creators to sell physical goods, digital assets, and professional services in one seamless environment. Doing so makes Havven the first safe privacy centered platform to offer creators a place to sell, consumers a place to buy, and everyone in the alternative and fringe communities a place to connect.

"Traditional social media wasn't built for us; we were the punchline, the risk, and the glitch," says Derek Hanjora, Havven CEO. "Havven is the escape from the traditional. We’ve built a fortress where identity isn't a data point to be sold, but a soul to be celebrated. With the support of Moonshotnx, we are proving that you can build a venture scale business that prioritizes human safety and radical inclusion over predatory algorithms."

Havven invites creators, dreamers, and seekers to stop trying to fit into a frame that wasn't built for them and join the revolution of authenticity.

Registration for the launch is now open and can be accessed at Havven.me. 

About Havven

Havven is the world’s first "Safety by Design" social ecosystem, engineered as a secure digital sanctuary for the 18-plus creator economy and alternative communities. By integrating a high-integrity social feed with proprietary anti-piracy technology — including advanced screenshot and screen-recording deterrence — Havven provides a secure home for the LGBTQ+, kink, and alternative populations currently marginalized by mainstream platforms. Currently a member of the prestigious Mannx/Moonshotnx accelerator, Havven is redefining digital commerce through its unified marketplace and creator-first 83/17 revenue model. Our mission is to move beyond the transactional nature of legacy paywalls to build a global sanctuary where identity is celebrated, and safety is the standard. For more information, visit www.havven.me.

Media Contact

Patty Howard
CMO, Sanctuary Innovations
patty@sanctuaryinnovations.com
+1 301-560-4247

As millions of Americans take part in Dry January, VIVAZEN® is encouraging people to rethink the month not as a restriction, but as an opportunity to feel sharper, more energized, and more present in daily life.

Interest in Dry January continues to grow as people become more mindful of how alcohol can affect sleep, next-day energy, and productivity. Public health guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to emphasize moderation and intentional consumption as part of an overall wellness approach

“Dry January doesn’t have to be about deprivation,” said Bryan Derr, COO of VIVAZEN. “For a lot of people, it’s simply a chance to notice how much better they can feel when they start their day clear-headed, focused, and ready to go.”

As people step away from alcohol, many look for alternatives that support energy and concentration during busy workdays and demanding schedules. VIVAZEN Energy & Focus products are designed for adults who want steady energy and clarity without the highs and lows that can come from alcohol-centered routines

“We hear it all the time,” Derr added. “People tell us they’re more productive at work, more engaged at home, and just feel more like themselves when they take a break from drinking. Dry January gives them permission to try something different — and sometimes that experiment sticks.”

Why Dry January appeals to so many people:

• Many participants report better sleep and more consistent energy 
• Reduced alcohol intake can support focus and mental clarity
• A short reset often helps people make more intentional choices long-term

“Dry January isn’t about making a big statement,” said Derr. “It’s about small changes that add up: choosing clarity over fog, energy over sluggishness, and habits that help you feel your best moving forward.” 

VIVAZEN encourages adults to approach Dry January as a personal reset, one that supports productivity, focus, and everyday performance well beyond the first month of the year.

About VIVAZEN

For over a decade, VIVAZEN has delivered trusted, high-quality botanical supplements that provide people with functional wellness without compromise. Rooted in centuries of herbal wisdom and backed by modern innovation, VIVAZEN is a functional, feel-good alternative for those who want to live — and feel — on their own terms. Join the millions who trust VIVAZEN to Feel Great™ naturally. For more information, visit feelgreatbotanics.com.

Media Contact

Media Contact
press@vivazen.com

Bowery Clinic today announced expanded, physician-led protocols centered on two clinically studied peptides that act upstream of growth hormone: Tesamorelin (a growth hormone–releasing hormone analog) and Sermorelin (a GHRH 1–29 analog historically marketed as Geref). Bowery’s approach is built for patients seeking serious, medically supervised support for body composition, recovery, and metabolic health - grounded in the biology of the growth hormone (GH)-IGF-1 axis and informed by peer-reviewed data.

Unlike direct growth hormone administration, these therapies aim to stimulate endogenous, pulse GH signalling - an important distinction in how clinicians think about risk management, dosing strategy, and monitoring.

Why the GH–IGF-1 axis matters

Growth hormone is secreted in pulses from the pituitary and influences multiple downstream pathways, including IGF-1 production, substrate utilization (fat vs. glucose), tissue repair signaling, and body composition. In practice, “optimizing the axis” is not about chasing a number—it’s about aligning symptoms, labs, and measurable outcomes with safe physiology.

Bowery Clinic’s protocols emphasize:

• careful candidate selection
• baseline + follow-up lab monitoring (including IGF-1 and metabolic markers)
• conservative titration
• clear stop rules if risk outweighs benefit

Tesamorelin: the most clinically defined option in this category

Tesamorelin has the most established clinical profile among GH-axis peptides. It is FDA-approved (as EGRIFTA / EGRIFTA WR) for reduction of excess abdominal fat (visceral adipose tissue) in HIV-infected adults with lipodystrophy, with important limitations (not indicated for weight loss; long-term cardiovascular safety has not been established).

Key clinical evidence

1. Visceral fat reduction and cardio-metabolic markers (HIV lipodystrophy)

A multi-center randomized trial published in The New England Journal of Medicine reported that daily Tesamorelin over 26 weeks reduced visceral by roughly 20% and improved lipid measures in HIV-infected patients with central fat accumulation.

2. Visceral fat reduction and metabolic/endocrine associations

Further work in Clinical Infectious Diseases examined how visceral adipose tissue reduction relates to endocrine and metabolic changes during Tesamorelin therapy in HIV-associated abdominal adiposity.

3. Liver fat and ectopic fat (HIV populations; investigational context)

A JAMA study evaluated effects of Tesamorelin on visceral and liver fat in HIV, supporting a broader scientific discussion of ectopic fat changes when endogenous pulsatile GH is increased.

A randomized, double-blind multicenter trial in Lancet HIV reported reductions in hepatic fat fraction in HIV-associated NAFLD, positioning tesamorelin as a studied (though not universally labeled) option in a complex metabolic subgroup.

How Bowery frames Tesamorelin for patients: Tesamorelin is the most defined GH-axis peptide because it has an FDA-approved indication, standardized manufacturing in its approved products, and a deep published literature in specific populations.

Sermorelin: a clinically studied GHRH analog with a different regulatory history

Sermorelin is a synthetic fragment of GHRH (1–29). It was previously FDA-approved as Geref (including pediatric and diagnostic indications), but the branded product was discontinued and moved to the Orange Book’s discontinued drug product list; FDA later determined it was not withdrawn for safety or effectiveness reasons.

This regulatory history matters: it’s one reason Sermorelin is commonly encountered today via individualized compounding rather than as a currently marketed FDA-approved brand.

Key clinical evidence

1. Restoring GH/IGF-1 signalling in older adults (GHRH 1–29 analog studies)

A randomized, placebo-controlled trial in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism evaluated long-term administration of a GHRH (1–29) analog in older men and women, reporting endocrine-metabolic effects consistent with stimulating the somatotropic axis.

2. Cognitive endpoints studied with GHRH (1–29 NH2)

Work published in JAMA Neurology discusses randomized clinical trials of GHRH (1–29 NH2) administration in older adults (including those with mild cognitive impairment), examining cognitive outcomes alongside somatotropic effects.

Related PubMed records describe a 6-month GHRH intervention in healthy older adults with cognition as a primary focus.

How Bowery frames Sermorelin for patients: Sermorelin is best considered a clinician-managed, individualized GH-axis support option where dosing, timing, and monitoring determine whether benefits emerge—and whether risk remains acceptable. Its evidence base is real, but the modern supply pathway often involves compounding, which makes clinic standards and sourcing discipline more important, not less.

Bowery Clinic’s clinical standard: outcomes first, physiology always

Bowery Clinic’s GH-axis programs are structured like medical care-not a trend:

• Physician oversight and documented goals (body composition, recovery, metabolic markers)
• Baseline evaluation and exclusion criteria
• Ongoing monitoring (IGF-1, fasting glucose/HbA1c as appropriate, lipids; additional labs case-by-case)
• Clear criteria for pausing or discontinuing therapy if adverse signals appear
• Transparent discussions of what is known, what is uncertain, and what is off-label vs on-label

Tesamorelin’s FDA labeling highlights important limitations.

Safety and suitability: who should be cautious

GH-axis modulation is not appropriate for everyone. These therapies require medical evaluation and monitoring. Patients with certain histories (for example, some malignancies or conditions where GH/IGF-1 elevation could be concerning) may not be candidates. Tesamorelin’s prescribing information includes specific warnings and limitations that must be reviewed with a clinician.

Availability

Bowery Clinic’s Tesamorelin and Sermorelin programs are available through clinician evaluation with a defined monitoring plan and outcome tracking. Candidates are assessed individually, with care plans tailored to history, labs, and goals.

To learn more or request a clinical consult, patients can contact Bowery Clinic for an intake and physician review. Bowery Clinic provides peptide telehealth services to patients in New York, Florida, Michigan, Arizona, Washington, Illinois, New Jersey, California, Georgia, and Pennsylvania.

Bowery Clinic works exclusively with licensed 503A compounding pharmacies to ensure every medication meets the highest safety, purity, and sterility standards. We do not use or endorse research-grade peptides in any form, as they are not manufactured for human use and lack the regulatory protections required for safe medical treatment.

About Bowery Clinic

Bowery Clinic is a concierge telehealth clinic offering physician-led, personalized care focused on metabolic health, recovery, and longevity. We provide peptide-based therapies for energy, inflammation, muscle recovery, cognition, and skin and hair health, all sourced from licensed pharmacies. For more information, visit boweryclinic.com.

Disclaimer

The statements in this press release have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The products referenced are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

This announcement is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Tesamorelin has an FDA-approved indication for the reduction of excess abdominal fat in HIV-associated lipodystrophy. Any other uses are considered off-label and should be evaluated by a licensed clinician based on an individual patient’s risk-benefit profile.

Media Contact

Peter Arian
members@boweryclinic.com

Seed Group, a company of The Private Office of Sheikh Saeed bin Ahmed Al Maktoum, has entered into a strategic partnership with Oongalee, a Canada‑founded fintech and hospitality technology company.

The partnership marks Oongalee’s official market entry into the UAE following its proven success in Canada, where it operates the country’s largest interactive tabletop media network across more than 400 restaurants and 14,000 screens, delivering over 20 million guest interactions annually. With the strategic support of Seed Group, Oongalee aims to position the UAE as the launching pad for its next phase of global growth.

Founded in 2019, Oongalee is a fintech‑based interactive restaurant assistant that combines purpose‑built tabletop hardware, integrated payments, media, and real‑time data to deliver measurable value directly at the table. The company caters to restaurant operators seeking increased efficiency and revenue optimisation, as well as advertisers and media planners looking to engage diners during extended visits. Its network generates over five billion annual impressions across more than 400 locations and is trusted by global advertisers.

"Oongalee’s approach introduces a practical layer of innovation to the hospitality and media landscape," commented Hisham Al Gurg, CEO of Seed Group and The Private Office of Sheikh Saeed bin Ahmed Al Maktoum. "The platform’s ability to modernize table-side service while enabling targeted, measurable advertising reflects a thoughtful response to real operational and marketing challenges. We see clear value in solutions that improve efficiency for restaurants and provide brands with accountable engagement, aligning well with the UAE’s digitally driven economy."

"Canada validated our model and our technology, but the UAE is where our global vision accelerates," stated Karan Sareen, co‑founder and CEO of Oongalee (UAE). "Partnering with Seed Group gives us the strategic backing, credibility, and access needed to scale with impact. Our focus has always been on building technology that genuinely improves the guest experience while delivering real commercial value for operators. Bringing Oongalee to the UAE is a significant milestone as we work towards building the world’s largest interactive fintech‑powered media network."

The collaboration is set to advance the hospitality and out-of-home advertising sectors, reinforcing Dubai’s importance as a testbed for smart dining and media innovation. It also supports broader initiatives in the MENA region to enhance customer experiences, stimulate private-sector growth, and attract technology-led business models.

About Oongalee

Oongalee is building the world’s first connected hospitality platform, turning every table into intelligent infrastructure for media, AI, and commerce. Headquartered in Canada and expanding globally, Oongalee operates one of the world’s largest interactive hospitality media networks, combining patented hardware, proprietary software, and real-time data intelligence. The platform helps hospitality operators increase revenue, streamline service, and elevate guest experiences, while enabling brands to engage audiences through measurable, action-driven media. With a rapidly growing footprint across restaurants, entertainment venues, and high-traffic hospitality environments, Oongalee is redefining how physical spaces connect, monetize, and perform, powering the future of connected hospitality. For more information, visit oongalee.com. 

About Seed Group

For over 20 years, Seed Group has formed strategic alliances with leading global companies representing diverse regions and industries. These companies have propelled their business interests and goals in the Middle East and North Africa region through the support and strong base of regional connections of the Seed Group. The Group’s goal is to create mutually beneficial partnerships with multinational organizations and to accelerate their sustainable market entry and presence within the MENA region. Seed Group has been a key point in the success of all its partners in the region, helping them reach their target customers and accelerate their businesses. The Private Office was established by Sheikh Saeed bin Ahmed Al Maktoum to directly invest in or assist potential business opportunities in the region, which meet The Private Office’s criteria. For more information, visit seedgroup.com.

ECI Group (ECI) welcomes retired Ernst & Young Partner, Joseph King, to its Board of Managers, where he will also serve as Chairman of the firm's Audit Committee.

"ECI is excited to welcome Joe King to our Board, where we will welcome not only his skills as a 25-year partner at Ernst & Young, but also as a recognized leader in the business and philanthropic communities in Atlanta and in other major cities where he worked," said ECI Group CEO Seth R. Greenberg. "We are proud of the accomplishments of our Board and our team and know that Joe's values, professional insights, and experiences will complement us as we realize our goal as a best-in-class, fully integrated multifamily platform."

Joe King retired in 2025 after serving at Ernst & Young for almost 40 years, most recently as Senior Partner and a member of the firm's Professional Practice Group. King previously led the firm's Growth Markets Group and the EY Entrepreneur of the Year Programs. King began his career in 1987 in the firm's national offices in the Accounting Research department, where he did extensive research on corporate disclosures.

From 1993 to 1995, King was a resident at EY's National Accounting Group (New York), working on national and international accounting matters. King has also served some of the Southeast's largest technology clients throughout his career. King was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and graduated from the University of Michigan in 1987. King is a graduate of the Ernst & Young / Kellogg Graduate Program at Northwestern University and the EY/INSEAD Leadership Program. King is also an Eagle Scout and served on the University of Michigan's Ross School of Business Board of Governors, the Atlanta Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America, the Parents Board at the Georgia Institute of Technology, and the Governing Board of the Cherokee Town and Country Club. He currently serves on the board of The Center for Puppetry Arts in Atlanta.

About ECI Group

For more than 50 years, ECI Group has been one of the most highly regarded, privately owned real estate organizations in the United States. The firm is fully integrated, with development, construction, investment, and property management groups that have garnered national recognition for innovation and performance in the multifamily industry. With a portfolio of more than 7,500 units located throughout the Southeast and Texas, ECI is strategically positioned to continue to be a leader in the multifamily industry. For more information, visit www.ecigroups.com.

Media Contact

Karen Widmayer
KW Communications, LLC
karenwidmayerpr@gmail.com
+1 301-661-1448

Pyrotecnico, the Pittsburgh-area, New Castle–based live events production company known for its 135-year legacy in fireworks, produced a custom drone light show during halftime of the Pittsburgh Steelers' Monday Night Football playoff game at Acrisure Stadium on January 12.

The halftime drone show celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the Terrible Towel, one of the most iconic symbols in professional sports. Featuring 600 drones, the aerial performance lit up the sky above the south end of the stadium.

Designed to honor the history and cultural impact of the Terrible Towel, the show featured Steelers branding, marquee plays, imagery honoring broadcaster Myron Cope, and visuals tracing the towel's legacy from its origins to its enduring place in Steelers Nation. The synchronized soundtrack included music, iconic game calls, and Myron Cope's original explanation of the Terrible Towel, creating an immersive, emotional experience for fans in the stadium and watching nationwide.

"This show was about more than technology, it was about storytelling," said Rocco Vitale, President of Pyrotecnico and sister company Live Events. "The Terrible Towel represents pride, tradition, and community. Our goal was to bring that story to life in a new way while honoring everything it stands for."

The production reflects Pyrotecnico's continued expansion beyond fireworks and traditional special effects. Over the past year, the company has significantly invested in its drone light show capabilities, operating its own proprietary fleet of drones and managing every aspect of production in-house: from creative concept and animation design to flight execution and post-show teardown.

With deep experience in professional sports environments, including five consecutive years providing pyrotechnics for the Super Bowl, Pyrotecnico is uniquely equipped to deliver complex, high-profile productions under the demands of live broadcast and packed stadiums.

As a locally rooted company with locations across the country, Pyrotecnico's role in the Steelers' playoff halftime show underscores its evolution into a full-scale live events production partner alongside Live Events, while staying true to its Pittsburgh-area heritage.

"For us, producing this show in our home region — celebrating a symbol that means so much to Pittsburgh — was especially meaningful," added Vitale. "It's a powerful example of how tradition and innovation can come together to create unforgettable moments."

About Pyrotecnico

Pyrotecnico brings five generations of experience and over 135 years of creating oohs and aahs for audiences of all sizes. Backed by imaginative and hardworking people, Pyrotecnico amplifies excitement with fireworks, drone light shows, and special effects for sports, festivals, touring, theme parks, colleges and universities, corporate and community celebrations nationwide.  With headquarters in New Castle, Pennsylvania, and additional locations across the U.S., Pyrotecnico serves clients coast to coast, powered by a dedicated team committed to bringing people together through the power of awe-inspiring moments and unforgettable events. For more information, visit pyrotecnico.com.

Media Contact

Jodi Dague
Director of Marketing
jd@liveevents.com
+1 724-612-5313

MediDrive, a leading US healthcare transport and logistics innovator specializing in Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT), today announced a strategic investment in SPRYT, the Irish health-tech company behind Asa, an award-winning AI receptionist platform improving patient access and attendance.

This investment reflects MediDrive's commitment to building the most intelligent, connected ecosystem in healthcare transport — one where scheduling care and getting to care happen seamlessly in a single experience. As MediDrive expands its national footprint and technology leadership in NEMT, SPRYT's AI platform provides a natural extension of that mission.

A Unified Experience: Scheduling Care and Scheduling Transport in One Step

Through this partnership, MediDrive's Transportation Management System will integrate directly with Asa, giving patients the ability to schedule and manage transportation — whether by car, shuttle, or non-emergency medical vehicle — at the same time they book their appointment.

For health systems, the combined solution drives measurable improvements: fewer missed appointments, streamlined operations, and stronger engagement across diverse patient populations.

For payers who provide transportation benefits, the integration of SPRYT and MediDrive delivers new levels of efficiency and visibility. By linking AI-driven appointment scheduling with automated ride coordination, payers gain:

• Higher appointment adherence, which improves outcomes and reduces avoidable downstream costs.
• More predictable utilization of transportation benefits, with fewer last-minute or unnecessary trip requests.
• Reduced administrative burden, as AI-driven communication and automated workflows replace manual outreach and scheduling.
• Improved member experience, especially for high-need and chronically ill populations who depend on reliable access to care.

With complete transparency across scheduling, communication, and ride logistics, payers can more effectively manage network performance and ensure their members receive the care they are entitled to.

"SPRYT has built one of the most compelling AI platforms in healthcare, redefining how patients connect with care," said Alan J. Murray, president and CEO of MediDrive. "Integrating our nationwide transport network with their AI engine creates a powerful opportunity to improve access to care at scale. Together, we can eliminate one of the biggest barriers in healthcare — getting patients to the appointments they've already said 'yes' to."

Global Momentum Backed by Proven Results

Asa has delivered significant impact across the seven National Health Service (NHS) regions of England, improving attendance by more than 160%. SPRYT is currently deploying its technology across major US health systems, with pilots underway in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and multiple European markets.

"MediDrive brings unmatched expertise in healthcare logistics and national-scale transportation," said Neill Dunwoody, co-founder and COO of SPRYT. "By combining our AI-powered engagement with MediDrive's transport capabilities, we're closing the gap between intention and attendance. This partnership completes the last mile of patient access."

SPRYT's platform currently supports more than 1.9 million patients and has earned top industry recognition, including Ireland's Overall National Enterprise Award 2025, HIMSS Pitchfest Winner, and UK MedTech Startup of the Year.

About MediDrive

MediDrive is dedicated to enhancing the health and well-being of Americans by providing compassionate, reliable transportation to medical appointments. Specializing in Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT), MediDrive combines advanced technology with exceptional service to address the complexities of patient transportation, a key social determinant of health. Serving Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, and various healthcare provider programs nationwide, MediDrive is committed to delivering top-tier on-time performance and customer satisfaction through its AI-driven, scalable platform. For more information, visit medidrive.com. For current updates, follow MediDrive on LinkedIn. 

About SPRYT

SPRYT is a healthcare technology company headquartered in Ireland. Its AI receptionist, Asa, automates how patients book, reschedule, pay for, and manage medical appointments through WhatsApp, SMS, and other messaging channels — without apps, websites, or waiting on hold. Asa uses conversational AI, behavioral science, and predictive analytics to improve attendance, reduce admin time, and help the world show up to care. 

Media Contact

Jim Tenny
MediDrive
jim.tenny@medidrive.com
+1 917-520-3614

WellQor, one of the nation's largest multi-state psychology practices delivering care through telehealth, today announced its 10-year anniversary, marking a decade of providing high-quality, clinically supervised mental health care. Founded as a clinician-led practice, WellQor has grown deliberately by prioritizing clinical oversight, therapist support, and measurable outcomes rather than rapid, volume-driven expansion.

Over the past decade, WellQor has earned consistently strong feedback from both patients and clinicians, including a 4.7 rating on Google, a 4.5 provider rating on Indeed, and a 4.9 rating on Glassdoor. These reviews reflect the organization's emphasis on continuity of care, clinical accountability, and a supportive professional culture.

"Teletherapy works best when it's treated as healthcare, not a marketplace," said David Schwam, CEO of WellQor Management. "From the beginning, we chose to build WellQor as a real psychology practice, with the clinical leadership, systems, and accountability needed to support both patients and clinicians."

A True Psychology Practice, Not a Platform

Unlike many widely advertised virtual therapy brands, WellQor operates as a multi-state psychology practice and employs its clinicians as W-2 employees rather than independent contractors. This structure enables consistent supervision, shared clinical standards, and continuity of care, while fostering collaboration and long-term clinician engagement.

WellQor invests heavily in its clinical workforce, including company-funded continuing education, regular group case consultation sessions with clinical leadership and peers, and Clinician Connect, a proprietary platform that supports real-time collaboration, consultation, and peer support across a fully remote workforce.

Clinical Oversight Embedded in Care

Each WellQor patient is supported by a team that includes a dedicated patient liaison, licensed psychotherapist and oversight from a doctoral-level Clinical Director. Clinical Directors are directly responsible for diagnostic accuracy, establishing medical necessity, developing and approving treatment plans, monitoring progress, and determining appropriate discharge criteria — bringing a level of accountability that is uncommon in virtual mental health care.

Measurable Outcomes

WellQor tracks patient progress using their proprietary WellQor Emotional Vitals™, a session-by-session outcomes measurement system embedded into care. Analysis of more than 3,800 patients shows that over 70% experience measurable improvement, with average symptom reductions of over 30% across anxiety, depression, stress, and anger-related conditions.

"These outcomes are the result of supported clinicians, consistent oversight, and treatment guided by data — not algorithms," said Dr. David Giella PsyD, Clinical Director.

About WellQor

WellQor is a national, multi-state psychology practice providing clinically supervised teletherapy services. Through a collaborative, team-based model and consistent outcomes measurement, WellQor delivers evidence-based mental health care that emphasizes accountability, continuity, and meaningful patient progress. Learn more at wellqor.com.

Media Contact

Ryan Thoms
rthoms@wellqor.com
+1 646-687-4619

Nulo, the premium pet food brand dedicated to fueling healthier, happier lives for pets and the people who love them, today unveiled the release of a new 30-second television spot titled “Journey to Glory,” part of the second iteration of its award-winning* “Fuel Incredible” campaign. 

Developed in partnership with Nulo’s in-house creative team and directed by Kelly Lipscomb of Widespread Creative, the spot highlights a roster of Team USA athletes — Madison Chock and Evan Bates, Alex Ferreira, Brenna Huckaby, Maddie Mastro, Kristen Santos-Griswold and Jordan Stolz — preparing for competition in Milan-Cortina, accompanied by their beloved pets. The creative will begin airing nationally on NBC on January 7, with additional placements across NBC and Peacock appearing throughout this year’s Winter Games. 

“Fuel Incredible has always been about celebrating the emotional bond between athletes and their pets, highlighting the unconditional support and companionship pets provide through every challenge and triumph,” said Michael Landa, Nulo founder and CEO. “With ‘Journey to Glory,’ we’re proud to extend that story into this next chapter of inspiration, showing how athletes prepare to compete on the world stage with the help of invaluable mental and emotional support they receive from their four-legged family members.”

Building on the campaign’s successful launch tied to the 2024 Paris Games, “Fuel Incredible” continues Nulo’s mission to showcase the meaningful role pets play in the lives of elite athletes. The heartfelt new spot reinforces how pet companionship supports performance, resilience and wellbeing beyond the arenas of training and competition.

The new creative captures moments of daily life and preparation with U.S. athlete ambassadors and their pets, emphasizing the connection between physical performance and emotional support. The “Fuel Incredible” campaign spans broadcast, digital and social channels to reach sports fans and pet parents alike.

For more on Nulo athletes and their pets, visit nulo.com/be-inspired or follow their journeys to Milan-Cortina on Instagram.

* Winning award submissions from Nulo’s Fuel Incredible campaign include: 2025 Digiday Streaming & Video Award Best Ad “Every Dream They Hold”; 2025 Cynopsis Sports Media Awards, Marketing Campaign category; Muse Creative Awards Platinum Winner — Video-Sports, Video-Pets & Advertising-Advertising Campaign; 2024 MarCom Awards Platinum Winner in Strategic Communications, Advertising/Marketing & Video/Audio categories.

About Nulo

Nulo is on a mission to fuel the inner athlete in every pet. With a wide range of ultra-premium food formats available in more than 6,500 pet specialty retailers nationwide, Nulo ensures pets enjoy the best in digestive and immune health, skin and coat care, mobility, and weight management. Recognized as one of Forbes Magazine's "Most Innovative Brands at Retail," Nulo's offerings are rich in animal-based proteins and low in carbs, crafted to keep pets thriving alongside their human companions. Founded in 2009 and headquartered in Austin, TX, Nulo continues to inspire pet parents and athletes alike. For more information, visit www.nulo.com.

Media Contact

Taylor Strategy
nulo@taylorstrategy.com

Truemed, the leading platform enabling qualified health purchases with Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), today announced a strategic partnership with ThrivePass, the leading platform for lifestyle benefits, rewards and recognition, COBRA and tax-advantaged accounts.

This collaboration builds on Truemed's mission to make true medicine more accessible and affordable, while leveraging ThrivePass's strength as the fastest growing TPA for LSA, Rewards, COBRA and Tax-advantaged benefit accounts. The result: employees gain greater choice and affordability, and employers strengthen engagement with a benefits experience that goes beyond traditional healthcare.

Key Advantages of the Partnership:

• Streamlined Access: Qualified customers who receive a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) from a licensed practitioner may be able to use HSA/FSA dollars for interventions such as wearable devices, nutrition counseling, stress-management programs, and other health interventions available through Truemed.
• Seamless Shopping: ThrivePass's platform will integrate with Truemed to provide a streamlined process to obtain an LMN through Truemed's network of independent licensed healthcare providers. Truemed's clinical rigor and integrated documentation standards help employees and employers comply with IRS guidelines while reducing their administrative burden.
• Comprehensive Benefits Experience: Employers can offer a single, unified platform that combines lifestyle benefits with tax-advantaged healthcare, creating a differentiated employee experience.
• Future-Ready Flexibility: The partnership positions both organizations to adapt to evolving employee expectations, while reinforcing a commitment to proactive health and well-being.

"This partnership with ThrivePass represents a step forward in making root-cause healthcare accessible and affordable to more employees," said Justin Mares, CEO of Truemed. "By combining our compliance-driven LMN process with ThrivePass's diverse benefits marketplace, we're empowering employers to deliver meaningful benefits in a way that is both flexible and future-ready."

"At ThrivePass, our mission is to make benefits personal," said Ryan Tacke, CEO of ThrivePass "Partnering with Truemed allows eligible employees to use pre-tax dollars for more of their healthcare needs. This partnership extends our commitment to giving employees the ability to invest in their health goals with the same ease and choice they enjoy across our platform."

Learn more at www.truemed.com/a/thrivepass.

Truemed is for qualified customers. See terms at www.truemed.com/disclosures.

About Truemed

Truemed partners with consumer health brands to accept HSA/FSA payments for root-cause healthcare expenses. By streamlining medical qualification and compliance, Truemed enables individuals to invest in medically necessary products and services using pre-tax dollars.

About ThrivePass

ThrivePass is a holistic benefits platform that empowers employees to choose from a wide range of experiences and services—from professional development to fitness, wellness, and beyond. ThrivePass helps employers deliver flexible, personalized benefits that drive engagement and satisfaction.

Media Contact

Tom Dahl
Head of Enterprise Partnerships
tom@truemed.com

American Packaging Corporation (APC) is showcasing its RE™ Design for Recycle High Barrier Paper pouch, a sustainable solution engineered for brands looking to boost shelf impact while reducing environmental footprint. The new pouch is ideal for single‑serve seasoning packets as well as larger format dry‑mix products, offering a combination of protective performance, recyclability, and standout graphics.

Designed for Recyclability and Product Protection

• PVDC‑free construction
• Grease and aroma resistance for flavor integrity
• High MVTR and OTR barriers to protect freshness and extend shelf life
• Eco‑friendly design contributing to reduced environmental impact
• High‑definition print capability for vivid, eye‑catching graphics on shelf

The pouch is suitable for a wide range of dry products—including seasonings, coffee, baking mixes, drink enhancers, cookies, and cereal bars—making it a versatile solution for brands prioritizing sustainability.

Learn More

To explore customization options or request product samples, visit www.americanpackaging.com.

About American Packaging Corporation

Founded in 1902, American Packaging Corporation is a recognized leader in the flexible packaging industry. Family-owned, APC distinguishes itself by investing in state-of-the-art facilities and capabilities, delivering packaging innovation, promoting sustainable products and practices, and focusing customer delight. Today, APC operates six Centers of Excellence in the United States and employs approximately 1,300 talented, motivated professionals. For more information, please visit americanpackaging.com.

Media Contact

Teri Meadow
American Packaging Corporation
TMeadow@AmericanPackaging.com

Talon Air, a leading Long Island-based jet charter and aircraft fleet management company, has been acquired in a private transaction that closed on January 2, 2026.

The new ownership group is led by current CEO James Chitty, Chief Operating Officer Nicholas Piazza and an investment group specializing in aviation. Talon Air has been an affiliate of Vista, who became a shareholder as part of its acquisition of Apollo Jets in 2021. James Chitty, who continued to run the business through a period of significant growth under the global group, will now run Talon as a fully independent business.

The vision is to focus on new partnership opportunities with private jet brokers and suppliers to the industry while providing continuity for its employees, aircraft owners and charter customers. "This is an exciting new chapter for our airplane owners as well as our dedicated team of employees, who provide the highest level of customer support and service," said Chitty.

"By aligning ownership with leadership, Talon Air will continue to build upon the rapid growth in managed aircraft and charter hours achieved in 2025, by investing in new growth opportunities," Chitty added. In 2025, Talon Air added 12 aircraft to its management operations, in the fourth quarter, including 9 in December.

About Talon Air

Talon Air, based out of Republic Airport in Farmingdale, NY, is among the top 15 charter operators in the United States, managing a fleet of approximately 40 midsized, super-midsized and heavy jets including Gulfstream IVSP, Gulfstream 450, Gulfstream V, Global 5000 and 6000. With the highest independent industry-recognized safety ratings (ARG/US Platinum Elite, Wyvern Wingman, and IS-BAO III Certification), the company maintains an FAA approved repair and maintenance station. Talon Air also offers jet charter services and the sale or acquisition of jets. For more information, visit www.talonairjets.com.

Media Contact

Katherine Heaviside
Epoch 5
kheaviside@epoch5.com
+1 631-427-1713

Mark L. Smith
Epoch 5
msmith@epoch5.com
+1 631-356-7097

Engine Data Science, LLC, a leading data and analytics platform purpose-built for the retail and CPG ecosystem, today announced the hiring of Chris Oswald as Chief Technology Officer. In this role, Chris will lead Engine's global technology strategy, platform innovation, and engineering organization as the company continues to expand its enterprise offerings.

Chris brings deep experience designing and operating enterprise-grade data platforms in highly complex environments where scale, reliability, and precision are critical. His leadership will support Engine's continued investment in building a dependable, high-performance platform that enables CPG teams to execute more effectively at retail.

Chris brings deep experience designing and operating enterprise-grade data platforms in highly complex environments where scale, reliability, and precision are critical. His leadership will support Engine's continued investment in building a dependable, high-performance platform that enables CPG teams to execute more effectively at retail.

"I believe Engine's offerings to the CPG industry are truly class-leading," said Chris. "I'm proud to join the Engine team and help evolve the platform, advance innovation, and leverage next-generation capabilities, including AI, across our product offerings to better connect data to business outcomes for our customers."

Most recently, Chris served as Vice President of Software Engineering at J.B. Hunt, where he led large engineering teams and oversaw highly scalable systems supporting one of the world's most complex logistics networks. Prior to that, he was Vice President of Software Engineering at Atlas Technology Group, where Nick and Chris previously worked together, partnering with Fortune 500 customers to deliver modern, data-driven solutions.

Chris's addition strengthens Engine's technology foundation and reinforces the company's commitment and continued investment in a trusted, market-leading analytics solution for retail and CPG organizations.

About Engine Data Science

Engine Data Science, LLC is a data-technology and analytics company focused on helping CPG brands and retail partners turn complex data into actionable insights. Purpose-built for the realities of retail execution, Engine's platform integrates retailer, syndicated, and proprietary data to enable faster, more confident decision-making across the organization. For more information, visit www.engine.net.

Media Contact

Pat Lockridge
COO, Engine Data Science
pat.lockridge@engine.net
+1 479-418-6595

Memphis Tours, a UK-based tour operator specializing in destination-focused travel experiences, today announced an expansion of its Egypt travel portfolio as international demand for structured cultural tourism continues to increase.

The move aligns with broader travel industry trends showing renewed interest in long-haul destinations offering historical depth, guided experiences, and professionally managed itineraries. Egypt has emerged as a key beneficiary of this shift, supported by infrastructure investments and enhanced accessibility to major heritage sites.

Expanded Egypt Trip Packages Address Evolving Traveler Preferences

In response to these developments, Memphis Tours has introduced a wider range of Egypt Trip Packages aimed at travelers seeking comprehensive, insight-driven journeys. The expanded portfolio includes itineraries designed for first-time visitors, returning travelers, and small private groups, with options spanning short cultural tours to extended multi-city programs.

The company stated that the updated packages emphasize itinerary balance, combining major archaeological destinations with organized travel logistics and licensed professional guides.

Focus on Guided Access to Key Archaeological Sites

According to Memphis Tours, the enhanced itineraries provide structured access to Egypt’s most visited landmarks, including the Pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, the Karnak and Luxor temple complexes, and the Valley of the Kings. Several programs also incorporate Nile cruise segments between Luxor and Aswan, offering guided exploration along historic river routes.

“Travelers increasingly value context and organization when visiting heritage-rich destinations,” a company spokesperson said. “Our Egypt programs are designed to deliver historical insight alongside reliable travel coordination.” 

Portfolio Includes Flexible and Multi-Segment Travel Options

Beyond core sightseeing programs, the expanded offerings include optional extensions such as Red Sea resort stays, domestic air travel between cities, and customizable scheduling for private tour arrangements. Memphis Tours noted that this flexibility allows travelers to tailor experiences based on time, comfort, and personal interests.

The company also highlighted its emphasis on end-to-end travel coordination, covering accommodations, ground transportation, and on-site support to reduce complexity for international visitors.

Availability and Booking Information

The newly expanded Egypt Trip Packages are now available through the company’s official website. Travelers and travel professionals can access detailed itineraries, seasonal availability, and booking information at www.memphistours.co.uk/egypt.

About Memphis Tours

Memphis Tours is a travel company specializing in guided and customized tour programs across Egypt and select international destinations. The company focuses on culturally focused travel planning, combining local expertise with structured itineraries designed for global travelers. For more information, visit www.memphistours.co.uk.

Media Contact

Ahmed Saleh
english.uk.mega@memphistours.com

Enterprise automation provider Flowable has released version 2025.2 of its business orchestration platform, aiming to help organizations deploy AI-driven automation at scale while maintaining regulatory control, transparency, and operational stability.

As AI integrations spread across enterprise workflows, organizations face mounting pressure to balance speed with governance. Fragmented tools, disconnected agents, and unclear dependencies create compliance gaps and delay effective digital modernisation. Flowable 2025.2 responds to these pressures by strengthening enterprise AI governance across the full automation lifecycle, from design and deployment through runtime execution and audit.

Enterprise Context and Governance Challenges

Flowable describes this challenge as a "complexity vortex," driven by fragmented systems, risky automation, and brittle processes that slow change. While AI can accelerate individual tasks, it introduces risk when decisions occur outside standardized processes. As a result, policy updates are delayed, audit findings take longer to resolve, and teams hesitate to modify systems that appear stable but carry hidden dependencies.

These constraints limit innovation and keep AI initiatives confined to pilots rather than production use. Governance gaps often appear at handoffs between teams, across shared services, and during audits. Unclear ownership, control, and visibility of AI, rules, and automated decisions makes accountability difficult, especially when AI agents act across multiple systems.

Release 2025.2 addresses these challenges by strengthening regulated workflow automation through orchestration, governance, and visibility. This approach reduces operational uncertainty and allows enterprises to adapt processes and policies while maintaining compliance.

Multi-agent Orchestration and Architectural Flexibility

Flowable 2025.2 strengthens support for multi-agent orchestration through compatibility with the A2A specification. This enables enterprises to coordinate AI agents from different vendors and frameworks under a single governed layer, without rebuilding their architecture as AI ecosystems evolve.

This approach mitigates vendor lock-in and improves interoperability across AI frameworks. Organizations can add, replace, or scale AI capabilities incrementally while maintaining consistent governance, security, and compliance controls. Agents from multiple ecosystems can collaborate while remaining accountable within enterprise processes.

AI-Assisted Design and Safer Change Management

A central focus of Flowable 2025.2 is improving how organizations manage change in complex automation environments. The release expands AI-assisted capabilities across automation process, case, decision, form, service, and agent models, supporting a low-code AI design approach. Integrated AI assistance helps teams identify model dependencies before changes are made, reducing the risk of unintended downstream effects.

This approach supports safer modernization by helping automation teams address compliance requirements and business changes without extended testing cycles or late-stage release delays.

For regulated teams, this design-time clarity helps reduce dependency on a small number of senior specialists. It allows broader groups of developers and process owners to participate in change with greater confidence.

Impact Analysis Before Deployment

The release also introduces enhanced AI impact analysis capabilities that allow teams to assess potential consequences before changes reach production. Flowable pinpoints where rules, variables, and services intersect across workflows, giving teams early visibility into what could fail before changes are made. Teams can query where a variable appears or what breaks if a rule changes.

These insights support explainable decisions before updates reach production. Improved visibility leads to more predictable releases and reduces the likelihood of risky changes late in the development cycle. For regulated organizations, the ability to evaluate impact upfront plays a critical role in maintaining audit readiness while accelerating delivery.

Visibility, Compliance, and Human Oversight

Governance and transparency remain key priorities in Flowable 2025.2. The release improves visibility into AI behavior through timelines of agent requests, responses, and tool usage. Cost transparency improves through token usage and invocation tracking, while audit trails document how AI-driven decisions align with organizational policies.

This visibility supports internal audits, regulatory reviews, and post-incident analysis with a consistent record of automated decision-making. Teams gain clearer insight into AI behavior across agents, tools, and workflows without relying on manual reconstruction after issues arise.

The platform also reinforces human-in-the-loop AI patterns. New features allow frontline teams to request AI assistance during workflows while keeping control over final decisions. Caseworkers, underwriters, and service teams can request summaries or recommendations while retaining control of final decisions and maintaining full auditability.

"When working with long documents such as medical reports or legal filings, teams often lose valuable time," said Flowable CTO Micha Kiener. "Flowable 2025.2 helps surface relevant information directly within workflows, while ensuring that human judgment and auditability remain central to every decision."

Flowable 2025.2 improves operational stability by separating AI tasks from core transaction processing. This reduces the risk that long-running AI calls delay databases or affect system performance, helping organizations scale automation without compromising oversight in mission-critical environments.

Platform Foundations Supporting Governed Automation and Velocity

Beyond AI-specific enhancements, Flowable 2025.2 strengthens its platform foundations to support sustained enterprise adoption. Improvements include broader model validation across design environments, expanded legacy IT system integration options through Apache Camel, enhanced CI and CD workflows, and extended service-level agreement modeling.

These updates reduce operational surprises by ensuring new automation capabilities work with existing systems, governance standards, and performance goals. They connect automation performance directly to business outcomes, including full-cycle timing and service quality. This supports what Flowable describes as governed automation with velocity, the ability to innovate quickly while maintaining operational control.

More information about Flowable 2025.2 can be found on Flowable's website.

About Flowable

Flowable provides an enterprise control panel for agentic automation, that ensures centralized governance, agility, and control to un-silo processes and automate work that is connected across systems, departments, and tools. The company supports enterprises worldwide with solutions for workflow orchestration, decision automation, and governed AI-driven process optimization. For more information, visit www.flowable.com.

Media Contact

Ben Zimdahl
Marketing Content Manager, Flowable
marketing@flowable.com
+41 31 329 09 00

AGM Global Vision has announced the launch of the Rattler V3 thermal riflescope family, marking the latest update to one of the company’s most widely adopted thermal optic platforms. The new lineup builds on the Rattler series’ existing reputation for durability and field performance while introducing several technical upgrades aimed at improving image quality, ranging capability, and overall usability.

The Rattler V3 launch expands AGM’s compact thermal offering and reflects broader trends in the thermal optics market, where demand continues to grow for lighter, more capable systems that integrate advanced ranging and ballistic tools without increasing size or complexity.

Expanded Rattler V3 Lineup

The Rattler V3 family consists of four models, each tailored to different use cases and performance requirements:

• Rattler V3 LRF 35-384
• Rattler V3 LRF 35-640
• Rattler V3 25-384
• Rattler V3 50-640 (introduced earlier in January 2025)

With the exception of the 25-384 model, all variants in the series incorporate an integrated laser rangefinder (LRF), a feature that has become increasingly sought after by hunters and precision shooters operating at extended distances or in low-visibility environments.

Integrated Rangefinding and Ballistic Capabilities

Both the Rattler V3 LRF 35-384 and LRF 35-640 models feature a built-in laser rangefinder rated to 1,000 meters. The rangefinder is paired with an onboard ballistic calculator designed to assist users in making real-time firing solutions without relying on external devices.

Compact Option Without LRF Integration

For users who do not require integrated rangefinding, and/or are on a bit of a budget, the Rattler V3 25-384 offers the same core imaging upgrades found across the V3 platform in a lighter and more compact configuration. By omitting the LRF module, this model prioritizes simplicity and reduced weight while maintaining the same processing improvements and rugged construction standards as the rest of the series.

This approach allows the Rattler V3 family to serve a wider range of users, from those seeking a fully integrated precision tool to those prioritizing minimal footprint and streamlined operation.

Imaging and Sensor Improvements

Across the entire Rattler V3 lineup, AGM has implemented several key imaging enhancements. All models feature sub-15mK thermal sensitivity, allowing the sensor to detect finer temperature differences and produce more detailed imagery in challenging conditions such as high humidity or low thermal contrast.

AGM recently provided a firmware update which includes the Image Boost 2.0 (an AI-enhanced imaging algorithm) with more firmware and algorithm updates in the works, delivering improved clarity, contrast, and target definition compared to previous generations. These improvements are intended to reduce image noise and enhance positive identification capabilities.

System Features and Construction

In addition to imaging upgrades, all Rattler V3 models include onboard video and audio recording, Wi-Fi connectivity, and support for AGM’s mobile app. Battery life is rated at up to seven hours on just one battery (two of them come included), depending on configuration and usage, and each optic is housed in a compact, weather-resistant chassis designed for field use in varied environments.

The RattlerV3 series was developed with direct input from our audience. AGM understands the importance of incorporating feedback from hunters and professionals who rely on their products in all conditions and applications.

Availability

The Rattler V3 thermal riflescope family is currently available through AGM Global Vision’s authorized dealer network worldwide. Additional product information, specifications, and demonstration content can be found through AGM’s official website and video platforms.

About AGM Global Vision

Founded in 2019 by experienced industry veterans, AGM Global Vision set out with a goal of being the No. 1 combined thermal, night vision and digital optics manufacturer in the country. Now available in over 100 countries worldwide, AGM now finds itself a global player in numerous product categories, including weapons-mounted thermal imaging, thermal handhelds, hybrid thermal/digital systems, traditional night vision goggles, digital day/night solutions, clip-on systems and various related accessories. For more information, visit www.agmglobalvision.com.

Media Contact

AGM Global Vision
contact@agm-support.com
+1 928-333-4300

South Florida’s Jewish community gathered this past Sunday morning for a powerful and deeply moving program honoring Holocaust memory, Jewish resilience, and the ongoing responsibility to confront rising antisemitism. The event featured Dani Dayan, chairman of Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center. His visit underscored the importance of precise language, historical truth, and moral responsibility in confronting hatred directed at Jews.

The program was attended by civic and communal leaders, including Seth Salver, Mayor of Bal Harbour, reflecting the broad community commitment to Holocaust remembrance, education, and Jewish continuity. A central focus of the morning was Yad Vashem’s historic achievement of recovering and documenting the names of more than five million of the six million Jewish victims of the Holocaust. This initiative reflects Yad Vashem’s mission to restore identity, dignity, and humanity to each victim, ensuring they are remembered as individuals rather than statistics.

“Recovering five million names is not a statistic, it is five million individual lives reclaimed from oblivion. Each name represents a world, a family, a story that matters forever,” said Dayan. The program emphasized that Holocaust remembrance is not solely about the past, but about strengthening Jewish identity and responsibility in the present and future. “This visit is about honoring survivors and victims, but it’s also about strengthening the bond between Yad Vashem and American Jews who feel a deep responsibility to remember, educate, and stand proudly as Jews,” said Tamar Major, national director of Philanthropy for the Yad Vashem USA Foundation. “At a time of rising antisemitism, Holocaust memory is not optional it is essential.”

The program was graciously hosted by Rabbi Yechiel Koskas, whose leadership and hospitality helped create a meaningful and dignified setting for the community gathering. The event was generously sponsored by Sam Shamie and Nancy Shamie. During the program, Sam Shamie announced a $100,000 pledge to Yad Vashem, made in memory of his sister, in support of Holocaust remembrance, education, and historical preservation.

Two Holocaust survivors were present and addressed the audience, offering personal reflections that reinforced the urgency of remembrance and the importance of ensuring that the lessons of history are never forgotten. The program also featured remarks from Robert Garson and Tila Falic Levi, members of a U.S. presidentially appointed Holocaust remembrance advisory committee, who spoke about the global responsibility to preserve historical truth and confront rising hatred against Jews worldwide. The morning concluded with a message of unity and resolve, reaffirming that Jewish memory is sustained most powerfully through community, education, leadership, and action.

Media Contact

Warren Cohn
Founder and CEO, RocketshipPR
warren@rocketshippr.com

Massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs) are distinguished by vast persistent worlds where thousands of players co-exist, each developing a character over extended periods. Unlike single-player or short-term multiplayer games, MMORPGs focus on long-term character progression and social interaction. Players accumulate experience, gear, and skills over weeks or years, forming lasting relationships through guilds, alliances, or teams. The persistent game environment, which evolves even when a player is offline, alongside features like leveling, quests, and cooperative play, defines the genre. This model has maintained interest in MMORPGs for decades. World of Warcraft (WoW), launched in 2004, remains one of the most widely played and influential titles, illustrating the enduring appeal of long-term online role-playing experiences.

Progression in MMORPGs can be substantial, leading some players to seek shortcuts. Blizzard, the developer of WoW, offers in-game level boost items to accelerate advancement, while third-party services, commonly referred to by players as WoW boost allow paying others to expedite leveling. In 2022, Blizzard took action against unauthorized boosting services because paying for assistance had become widespread. Such dynamics exemplify a core MMO characteristic: the drive to enhance one’s character and reach endgame goals often motivates players to pay for external help. Nevertheless, the fundamentals of the genre remain rooted in immersive worlds and social engagement. From EverQuest to modern MMOs such as Final Fantasy XIV (FFXIV) and Black Desert Online (BDO), long-term engagement strategies and community-driven virtual economies are central to sustaining player interest.

Key Elements of the MMO Genre

A defining feature of successful MMORPGs is a robust progression system. Players typically start at low levels and gradually improve abilities and equipment through quests, combat, and exploration. Early content provides structured guidance, while endgame objectives, including higher level caps, rare loot, and challenging encounters, engage experienced players. Games like FFXIV and The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO) exemplify this balance, offering detailed quest lines, gear upgrades, and scalable challenges. Research on online games shows that persistent worlds, level progression, and character customization form core elements across nearly all MMOs. Incremental rewards for new abilities or items reinforce a sense of accomplishment and encourage continued play.

Social interaction is another hallmark of the genre. Formal group systems such as guilds, clans, or alliances, alongside matchmaking tools, facilitate cooperative play in dungeons, raids, and PvP events. In WoW, guilds often form around shared goals like raiding, player-versus-player combat, or socializing, fostering stronger player commitment. Multi-year studies demonstrate that players with greater guild responsibilities log more time in-game and are less likely to leave the game. Additional social features, including chat channels, friend lists, in-game events, and cross-server or cross-platform play, broaden engagement opportunities. The sense of belonging to a group creates informal “stickiness,” as players invest in relationships as well as character development. Social networks are critical for retention, and academic analyses have linked robust guild participation to lower quit rates.

Virtual economies in MMORPGs engage players for extended periods. Most titles implement auction houses or trading systems where gear, crafting materials, and currency circulate. These markets often follow real-world economic principles such as supply and demand. Blizzard’s economy, for example, has supported active trade in rare items and in-game gold for years. Some players, often called “gold farmers,” even earn real-world income by trading virtual currency, demonstrating the intersection of digital and actual economies. Developers must carefully balance these systems to prevent resource monopolization and address unauthorized markets, bots, and real-money trading violations.

Endgame content — activities for max-level characters — is crucial for player retention. After initial leveling, players pursue high-difficulty challenges, including large-scale raids, high-tier dungeons, player-versus-player competitions, or special events. WoW pioneered large-scale 40-player raid encounters, setting a template followed by many successors. Other MMOs have developed their own formats: FFXIV offers intricate 24-player trials and raids; ESO provides group dungeons and alliance war PvP; Guild Wars 2 features dynamic meta-events and world bosses; BDO incorporates open-world boss fights and large-scale guild PvP. Seasonal or expansion-driven content updates further sustain engagement by raising level caps, introducing fresh gear, and providing new challenges, such as WoW’s rotating Mythic+ dungeons with seasonal affixes.

World of Warcraft as a Benchmark for MMORPGs

By both design and impact, WoW has become the reference point in the MMORPG genre. Its early and sustained popularity redefined expectations for scale, revenue, and gameplay accessibility. Within its first decade, WoW reached multiple milestones that guided industry standards, at times reporting over 10 million subscribers concurrently. The subscription model, supported by regular expansion packs, proved highly lucrative, with peak revenue reaching approximately $1 billion annually. WoW’s polished graphics, intuitive interface, and accessible mechanics attracted mainstream audiences, making it “the first MMO to achieve mainstream success and remain rooted there,” effectively embedding online role-playing into popular culture.

WoW’s influence is evident in many successors. Its “holy trinity” of roles — tank, healer, damage dealer — and intuitive targeting-combat system became templates adopted across the genre. Guild mechanics and group coordination features established standards for social interaction, while the practice of scheduled content releases inspired expansion and patch strategies in other games. Elder Scrolls Online, Guild Wars 2, and Lineage titles explicitly referenced WoW when planning expansions and live-service strategies. Even beyond MMORPGs, WoW influenced cooperative gameplay and matchmaking in non-MMO titles such as Destiny 2.

Regionally, WoW’s success has been strongest in North America and Europe, consistently appearing in the upper tiers of Western MMO revenues. In Asia, its presence has fluctuated; while it experienced significant popularity in China, licensing issues led to server shutdowns in 2023, with relaunch plans announced for 2024. Meanwhile, other Asian MMOs dominate the regional market: FFXIV became Japan’s largest MMO, and BDO, developed in Korea, amassed a global audience of approximately 55 million players and generated over €2 billion in revenue by 2024. WoW’s Western dominance and its influence on global design illustrate its role as a benchmark while highlighting regional diversity in player preferences.

Character Development Systems in World of Warcraft

WoW offers multi-faceted character progression. Players begin at level 1 and advance to a cap, which has historically increased with each expansion (Dragonflight currently sets the cap at 70). Experience points are earned through questing, combat, and exploration. Level scaling ensures new or returning players can experience older content at relevant difficulty levels. Time-saving mechanisms, such as double-XP events and instant-level items, cater to players who prefer accelerated progression.

Class specialization and talent systems provide gameplay depth. Each class chooses a role, such as Tank, Healer, or Damage Dealer, and talents allow customization of playstyle. Over WoW’s history, talent trees have been streamlined into defined rows, with Dragonflight offering six rows per specialization and additional covenant or artifact abilities. Players frequently respec talents for new content, encouraging experimentation and sustained engagement.

Equipment progression drives endgame motivation. Gear quality, measured by item level, improves through dungeons, raids, PvP, and world quests. Seasonal raid tiers, PvP ranks, and weekly Mythic+ rewards create multiple avenues for gear improvement. Meta-progression features, such as relic upgrades and item enhancements, deepen progression beyond raw item level. Together, these systems foster a recurring cycle that encourages weekly and expansion-driven engagement.

Major expansions, released roughly every two years, increase level caps, add new zones, and introduce fresh mechanics. For instance, Warlords of Draenor added raid finder modes, while Legion introduced artifact weapons that grew with the player. Expansions integrate narrative and mechanical updates, motivating both veteran and returning players to pursue new development paths.

Why Players Continue to Choose World of Warcraft

WoW appeals to both newcomers and veterans. Free trials allow players to reach level 20 at no cost, and accessible leveling paths, including the “Chromie Time” feature, enable returning players to experience earlier expansions at relevant difficulty. Community resources, such as wikis, dungeon finders, and guides, support solo play while easing social integration. Casual players enjoy smooth progression, whereas veterans face complex challenges: Mythic raids, ranked PvP, Solo Shuffle, and other high-skill content.

Social structures reinforce retention. Guilds, social events, role-playing groups, and community contests foster loyalty, while in-game economies and chat channels enhance daily engagement. Studies show that guilded players log more hours and have lower attrition than solo players. Long-term investment in characters, cosmetic rewards, and legacy servers also strengthen commitment. Solo-friendly content, automated matchmaking, and scaling systems reduce barriers for new or returning players, while multiplayer coordination goals, such as Mythic+ dungeons and raid encounters, preserve cooperative challenge. Paid services like WoW Boosts, though controversial, illustrate strong demand for progression and underscore sustained engagement in the ecosystem.

Conclusion

World of Warcraft has profoundly impacted the MMORPG genre. It established subscription-based revenue models, expansion-driven content pipelines, and guild-centric social structures. Its persistent world, layered character progression, and evolving content became templates widely emulated by successors. WoW’s longevity, spanning over two decades, demonstrates that continuous character growth, social networks, and new content cycles can sustain a player base long-term. Although newer MMOs, such as FFXIV and BDO, have emerged to challenge its prominence, WoW remains a benchmark. Developers continue to measure live-service ambitions against WoW’s milestones. Its enduring appeal lies in deep character development, living communities, and consistent content updates, solidifying its status as a reference point in modern game design and a model of long-term player engagement.

About Epiccarry

Epiccarry publishes authoritative industry reports and in-depth analyses on MMORPG design, player retention, and long-term engagement. Its coverage includes recent news and academic commentary on World of Warcraft’s market performance, evolving game mechanics, and broader trends shaping the MMO genre. For more information, visit epiccarry.com.

Media Contact

Kyrylo Udruhov
k.udruhov@epiccarry.com

Nuqi Digital Wealth Limited, a DIFC-based asset management firm, through its investment banking division, has successfully arranged a $70 million three-year financing loan for Ipak Yuli Bank Uzbekistan, marking a major milestone in strengthening capital flows into Central Asia. The facility, executed through a combination of bilateral and syndication structures underscores Nuqi Wealth’s expanding role as a trusted arranger for emerging-market financial institutions.

Acting as NUQI Digital Wealth’s strategic partner in Uzbekistan, Umma Capital played a pivotal role in originating the transaction and opening the market to new international lenders. Leveraging its deep local relationships and on-the-ground expertise, Umma Capital was instrumental in introducing NUQI Digital Wealth to Ipak Yuli Bank and guiding counterparties through the country’s regulatory, banking, and execution landscape. This collaboration not only streamlined engagement with the bank’s senior management, but also helped build confidence among new investors entering Uzbekistan for the first time, reinforcing Umma Capital’s position as a key bridge between Uzbekistan financial institutions and global capital providers.

A standout feature of the deal is the speed and precision of execution. NUQI Digital Wealth managed the end-to-end funding process, delivering competitive terms for Ipak Yuli Bank amid shifting global financial conditions. The initial bilateral arrangement was completed within two months, demonstrating NUQI’s ability to mobilize capital quickly and efficiently.

NUQI Digital Wealth also secured the participation of a leading global financial institution as Lead Arranger for the syndication, further strengthening investor confidence. In addition, the firm successfully introduced new investors many engaging with Uzbekistan for the first time, highlighting rising interest among Asian capital providers in the country’s reform-driven banking sector. 

Commenting on the transaction, Dilip Samanthilaka, NUQI Digital Wealth’s managing director and head of Investment Banking, stated:

“Our objective is always to secure the best structure and the most strategic investor mix for our clients. This successful transaction demonstrates our ability to bring new global liquidity to dynamic markets like Uzbekistan, while managing the process with precision and speed.”

From the borrower’s side, Tursun Makhkamov, chief financial officer of Ipak Yuli Bank, emphasized the importance of the local partnership:

“As chief financial officer of Ipak Yuli Bank, I would like to highlight the pivotal role Umma Capital has played as our trusted advisor and representative in this transaction. Umma Capital not only safeguards and promotes the interests of Ipak Yuli Bank, but also brings deep local insight that is essential for successfully engaging with global partners. We are pleased to see Umma Capital partnering with Nuqi Wealth, as this collaboration is opening new channels of international funding and unlocking fresh potential for Uzbekistan’s capital markets.”

With this milestone, NUQI Digital Wealth further strengthens its position in arranging cross-border funding for financial institutions across emerging markets, continuing its mission to foster investment corridors between Asia, the GCC, and Central Asia.

Media Contact

Meher Gupta
director@contemporaryconnect.com

New research from healthcare consultancy Sage Growth Partners finds that 77% of health system and hospital C-suites are planning to increase participation in value-based care (VBC) models in the next two years, a marked rise since the 2023 survey.

The new report, "The C-Suite's View on Value-Based Care: Investment Heats Up Despite Cooling Sense of Progress," is the third in a series based on Sage Growth Partners' annual survey of 101 hospital and health system C-suite leaders. This installment examines executives' perspectives on VBC progress, their forecast for the near future, and how much revenue they really have at risk.

"Here's the latest plot twist on the winding journey to value-based care: despite slow progress during the last two years, many of today's C-suites are developing strategies to expand their participation in VBC models in the next two years," said Dan D'Orazio, CEO of Sage Growth Partners. "Value-based care is both a challenge for C-suites and a way to strengthen their organization's bottom line as payer dynamics evolve and macroeconomic uncertainties persist."

Key findings from the report include:

• 20% of C-suite leaders agree that the industry has made progress toward value-based care in the last two years, but that is fewer than those who agreed in our 2023 and 2022 surveys: 40% and 37%, respectively.
• 77% of C-suite leaders say their organization plans to increase participation in value-based care programs in the next two years — an increase from 57% in 2023.
• 69% of organizations are participating in an ACO, up from 53% in 2023; and 61% leverage bundled payment models, an increase from 46% in 2023.

Despite the outlook for continued VBC momentum and long-term commitments to alternative payment models, the survey results also reveal that C-suites are still far from having significant amounts of revenue at risk in value-based contracts:

• 54% of hospitals and health systems generate between 5% and 20% of revenue in VBC arrangements — but only a small percentage earn more than 20%.

"C-suite executives understand that value-based care can be instrumental as they face increasing pressure to balance improving care quality and population-level outcomes against financial performance," said Stephanie Kovalick, chief strategy officer of Sage Growth Partners. "Achieving that future requires strategic investments to overcome operational, clinical, and financial challenges."

Sage Growth Partners' independently surveyed a range of C-suite participants representing 101 healthcare provider organizations, including integrated delivery networks, academic medical centers, and independent hospitals.

The full report, “The C-Suite’s View on Value-Based Care: Investment Heats Up Despite a Cooling Sense of Progress,” is available to read the full report.

About Sage Growth Partners

Sage Growth Partners is a healthcare advisory firm with deep expertise in market research, strategy, and communications. Founded in 2005, the company's extensive domain experience ensures that healthcare organizations thrive amid the complexities of a rapidly changing marketplace. Sage Growth Partners serves clients across the full healthcare spectrum, including Press Ganey, GE HealthCare, Medecision, Xealth, LexisNexis, GoodRx, ProgenyHealth, Kyruus Health, Best Buy Health, New Jersey Brain and Spine, and Philips Healthcare. For more information, visit sage-growth.com.

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