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SIGMA America Announces Results of its 4th Annual “Focused On The Fight” Charitable Giving Campaign Supporting Local Community Education

SIGMA CORPORATION OF AMERICA

SIGMA Corporation of America, a leading camera and lens manufacturer for both photography and cinema applications, announced today the results of its 4th Annual “Focused on the Fight” Charitable Giving Campaign. The initiative kicked off the new academic school year with a $50,000 contribution to schools selected by participating SIGMA dealers through DonorsChoose, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting teachers and students by funding educational projects that go beyond traditional school budgets. While this year’s charitable giving program is expected to cover 90% of U.S. states once fully funded later this month, SIGMA America’s long-term goal is to fund school projects in every state. To date, SIGMA dealers have donated to 68 schools and funded 70 school projects and will continue to grow as more projects are funded. Participating dealers are: Bedford Camera & Video, numerous locations in AK, OK, MO F32 Photo, Knoxville, TN Garland Camera Repair & Photo Imaging, Garland, TX Glazer’s, Seattle, WA Hot Rod Cameras, Burbank, CA Houston Camera Exchange, Houston, TX Nuzira, Scottsdale, AZ Pixel Connection, Avon, OH and Nashville, TN PROCAM, Detroit, MI; Chicago, IL; and Cincinnati, OH SIGMA America is grateful for and dedicated to the Long Island community which has supported its headquarters for nearly 40 years, and to the Los Angeles community that welcomed its Burbank office and showroom in 2018. As part of this charitable giving campaign, SIGMA served a total of 44 schools and funded a total of 46 projects, including the following in the Long Island and Los Angeles communities: East Islip High School, Islip, NY, “Strobe Lighting for Photography Students” project Martin Luther King Junior Elementary, Wyandanch, NY, “Strike a Pose It’s Camera Time” project Sotomayar Arts and Science Magnet School, Los Angeles, CA, “Empowering Student Filmmakers” project Logan Academy of Global Ecology, Los Angeles, CA, “Make a Statement without Saying a Word” project "We strongly believe that Sigma’s ‘picture’ – or actions – must match our words," says Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of SIGMA America. "Photography, by its creative nature, promotes awareness, compassion, and empathy; it is the heart of all we do as photographers. Nurturing and cultivating the next generation of creatives starts in the school, and it’s often the creative programs that are the first to fall victim to underfunding. We look forward to the impact this initiative will have on our communities now, and in the years to come." For the full list of funded projects and participating partners, please visit: https://www.sigmaphoto.com/focused-on-the-fight-23 SIGMA’s “Focused On the Fight” Charitable Giving Campaign was started in 2020 to assist in alleviating and eradicating Covid-19 after-effects, and in 2022 turned its focused to supporting humanitarian efforts in Ukraine. Since its inception, a generous $343,000 has been donated to charities in the United States and Ukraine, including local charities selected by 53 SIGMA participating dealers. About SIGMA Corporation of America SIGMA Corporation of America, founded in 1984, is the US subsidiary of SIGMA Corporation, a family-owned manufacturer of lenses, cameras and photo accessories. Headquartered in Ronkonkoma, NY, SIGMA America expanded its US operations in 2018 with the opening of SIGMA Burbank, a multifunctional showroom, event space and repairs/distribution facility located in the heart of the Los Angeles entertainment industry. Craftsmanship. Precision. Dedication. Since 1961, SIGMA has been devoted to the pursuit of advancing photographic technology. Unique to the industry, the family-owned business produces its high-quality, award-winning still photo and cinema camera lenses, DSLR and mirrorless cameras, flashes, filters and accessories from its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located in Aizu, Japan. In 2012, the company introduced SIGMA Global Vision with three distinct lens lines: Art, Contemporary and Sports. Designed for industry camera mount systems including Canon, Leica, Nikon, Panasonic, Sony and SIGMA, each lens is handcrafted and tested in Japan to ensure a high-performance, premium product that is purpose-built to last. In 2016, the SIGMA Cine lens lineup was launched, further cementing SIGMA as an innovator in imaging engineering. Embodying the core optical DNA that has defined the SIGMA benchmark of excellence, SIGMA Cine lenses meet the needs of advanced 6k and 8k cinema production. Forming the landmark L-Mount alliance alongside Leica and Panasonic in 2018, SIGMA continues its storied tradition of imaging excellence through groundbreaking innovations such as the native L-mount SIGMA fp and fp L full-frame mirrorless digital cameras, announced in July 2019 and March 2021 respectively. These products, along with over 35 award-winning SIGMA Global Vision lenses available in native L-Mount format, demonstrate SIGMA's continued commitment to the creative community through expanded product offerings. With the fp, fp L and these lenses, even more users can now leverage SIGMA's renowned optical formula to achieve their creative vision with ease. ### For information about SIGMA America, please visit sigmaphoto.com and SIGMA Blog for helpful information about our products. Follow SIGMA America on social media! SIGMA Photo: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram SIGMA Cine: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Contact Details SIGMA +1 631-207-7381 SIGMA.PR@sigmaphoto.com Company Website https://www.sigma-global.com/en/

October 12, 2023 12:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Unwiring.org Takes Bold Steps to Reform Social Media For a Healthier, More Connected Future

Unwiring

Unwiring officially launches to empower individuals in the fight against social media's negative impacts and unethical practices. The organization is led by Saahil Mishra and a diverse team of passionate teens who’ve developed several initiatives to catalyze positive change within social media. “I worry about the impact of social media on my generation. A surge in social isolation, mental health issues, disinformation, and political polarization has challenged our connection on both an interpersonal and societal level,” said Saahil Mishra, founder and social media activist. Mishra also serves as a research assistant at Stanford Social Media Lab and writer for the Poynter Institute’s Media Wise. Earlier this year, Mishra participated in his first TEDx Talk event in San Francisco. Unwiring is educating and empowering young people to drive real, representative change within social media. The team curates timely educational resources including a series of self-produced online videos, curriculum on social media’s inner workings and impacts, and editorial pieces centered around the youth perspective on social media’s harms and possible solutions. Unwiring also is hosting a ReDesign challenge for youth to pose ideas for social media reformation this fall and a youth summit in 2024. United States Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy issued a call for urgent action by policymakers, technology companies, researchers, families, and young people alike to gain a better understanding of the full impact of social media use. Recent research shows that adolescents who spent more than three hours daily on social media faced double the risk of experiencing poor mental health outcomes, such as symptoms of depression and anxiety. “When we advocate for internal platform changes, business model regulations, major culture and paradigm shifts, we can together build a healthier more connected future,” adds Mishra. “We invite teens to join us in this important movement by sharing their stories with us.” Visit unwiring.org and engage on Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, X formerly known as Twitter: @unwiring_org. Contact Details Unwiring Anne Shanahan, Community Relations Liaison +1 562-810-3016 ashanahan@unwiring.org

October 03, 2023 08:05 AM Pacific Daylight Time

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Comcast Donates Free WiFi Access to Four Nonprofits in the Twin Cities to Help Increase Digital Opportunities in the Region

Comcast Twin Cities

Comcast today announced the opening of four new Lift Zones in the Twin Cities to provide free WiFi access to families across the area. Furthering the company’s deep and longstanding commitment to advancing equity and opportunity, our new Lift Zones at the International Institute, Every Third Saturday, Al Maa’uun, and GMCC will support digital access and adoption through tech training and career building. The new Lift Zone at International Institute will also receive 250 new laptops and two privacy pods, which will be used for virtual job interviews and telehealth appointments, as needed by clients. Comcast’s Lift Zones program provides free WiFi, powered by Comcast Business, to enable students, seniors, families, and community members to get online and fully participate in the digital economy. With these four new locations, Comcast now offers over 115 Lift Zones throughout the Twin Cities. Comcast’s investments in the four partner organizations will help increase college and career readiness, especially among underserved youth; connect workers to opportunities; provide upskilling for adult learners and those already in the workforce; and close the skills – particularly digital skills – gap. “The tasks of starting a new life in a new country can be overwhelming for refugees and immigrants when they arrive. Digital literacy and lack of reliable internet access can get in the way of applying for work, participating in classes or accessing community services,” said Jane Graupman, Executive Director, International Institute of Minnesota. “Thanks to Comcast and this Lift Zone partnership, we can make this time a little easier for New Americans who contribute so much to our community.” “Helping to close the digital divide and address digital equity remain top priorities here in the Twin Cities,” said Makram El-Amin, Executive Director from Al Maa’uun. “Our city and our region have become even more dependent on broadband to learn, find work and healthcare services and so many other aspects of our daily life. Comcast’s new Lift Zones will create endless opportunities for so many individuals, families, and seniors in our community.” “We’re proud to partner with these four wonderful organizations to launch new Lift Zones to advance digital equity and workforce readiness in our most vulnerable neighborhoods,” said Kalyn Hove, Regional Senior Vice President, Comcast Midwest. “Our continued partnership with our community partners will equip individuals, families and seniors with the tools, skills and resources they need to achieve their goals.” “Helping our communities achieve digital equity is in our DNA at Comcast,” said Broderick Johnson, EVP, Public Policy, and EVP, Digital Equity, Comcast Corporation. “We’re thrilled to partner with the International Institute, Every Third Saturday, Al Maa’uun, and GMCC on our next installation of Lift Zones in the Twin Cities and to work with partners who share our same goals of closing the digital divide.” Today’s announcement is part of Project UP, Comcast’s $1 billion commitment to reach millions of people with the tools, resources, and skills needed to succeed in a digital world. Comcast’s Lift Zones complement Internet Essentials, which since 2011, has helped connect more than 10 million low-income people to the Internet at home. In Minnesota, the program has connected more than 416,000 Minnesotans. Comcast also participates in the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which provides qualifying households with a $30 per month credit, or $75 per month on Tribal lands, toward their Internet and mobile services. New and existing Xfinity Internet or Internet Essentials customers can learn more about the program and sign up by visiting: https://www.xfinity.com/learn/internet-service/acp/free-internet. About Comcast Corporation Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. Contact Details Comcast Corporation Jill Hornbacher +1 651-425-1695 Jill_Hornbacher@comcast.com Company Website https://midwest.comcast.com

September 21, 2023 10:00 AM Central Daylight Time

FAMILY QUEST ENTERTAINMENT LAUNCHES AS NEW INDUSTRY LEADER IN LIVE EVENT ENTERTAINMENT AND EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCES

Family Quest

Family Quest Entertainment, a new live event organization specializing in family entertainment and education, launched today as the parent company for Jurassic Quest and Brick Fest Live. Backed by L2 Capital, Family Quest Entertainment named longtime entertainment executive Jeff Munn the company’s first CEO. Munn was most recently the CEO of Jurassic Quest and will now oversee all properties under the Family Quest Entertainment umbrella. The announcement coincides with the 10th anniversary of Jurassic Quest, which has hosted over 10 million guests in more than 250 cities throughout North America since it launched in September 2013. “With a portfolio that includes the highest attended dinosaur exhibition in North America and the number one attended brick event for families, Family Quest Entertainment is already garnering paid attendance numbers that position us as one of the top family touring companies,” said Munn. “We plan to expand Jurassic Quest and Brick Fest Live into new markets, offer new experiences, and bring positive family memories to even more fans worldwide. We will be adding even more properties to Family Quest Entertainment in 2024.” Munn added, “Our goal is to create engaging moments and interactive opportunities through entertainment. We are proud that Jurassic Quest is the largest, most scientifically realistic dinosaur experience on the continent, and Brick Fest Live unlocks imagination and creativity through hands-on engagement. We will continue to prioritize edutainment throughout Family Quest Entertainment.” L2 Capital acquired Jurassic Quest in 2019 and added Brick Fest Live earlier this year, setting the stage for the launch of Family Quest Entertainment. Across the properties, Family Quest Entertainment projects more than 3 million attendees in 2024 and will continue to expand partnerships, which currently include local and regional sponsors along with national brands such as eBay, State Farm, and T-Mobile. Notable figures about each property: Jurassic Quest: 250+ North American cities played Over 10 million tickets sold in 10 years Over 2 million social media followers Brick Fest Live: 57 U.S. cities played in 67 venues Over 1.1 million attendees since 2014 Owns Guinness World Record for the Largest LEGO Mosaic of a LEGO minifigure As part of the announcement, Family Quest Entertainment named Tyler Semerdjian Chief Marketing Officer, Amanda Gabelman Vice President of Brand & Experience, and Andriana Magness Vice President of Tour Development & Routing. Semerdjian worked as the VP of Marketing for the San Diego Seals in the National Lacrosse League before joining the organization in July 2023. Gableman spent over 12 years at Feld Entertainment and more than four years at the Harlem Globetrotters before joining Jurassic Quest in 2021. Magness worked for VStar Entertainment Group for over 15 years in their booking department prior to joining Jurassic Quest in 2020. “Under Jeff’s leadership and an incredible team with unmatched industry experience, Family Quest Entertainment will create countless memories and learning opportunities for millions of families every year,” said L2 Capital Partner Lorin Cassidy Wolfe. “We look forward to growing our platform globally.” Munn spent over three decades of his live events career with the Harlem Globetrotters, where he served in various executive capacities, including Chief Operating Officer. He was named CEO of Jurassic Quest in August 2022 and held that position for 13 months until his role was expanded as the CEO of Family Quest Entertainment. About Family Quest Entertainment Family Quest Entertainment produces and presents unique interactive family experiences that entertain and educate. Its properties are designed to create memorable moments that spark joy for families around the world through the power of imagination and discovery. Its current brand portfolio includes Jurassic Quest and Brick Fest Live, which have collectively entertained millions of families in over 250 cities. Family Quest Entertainment is owned by L2 Capital Partners. For more information, visit www.familyquestentertainment.com or LinkedIn. About Jurassic Quest Jurassic Quest is the largest and most realistic dinosaur experience in North America and part of the Family Quest Entertainment portfolio. Since 2013, Jurassic Quest has entertained over 10 million fans in over 250 cities with an up close and personal look at the giants that once ruled the Earth. Developed with leading paleontologists, each dinosaur is brought to life using realistic likenesses, movement, and sound. Jurassic Quest is a leader in edutainment, bringing the classroom to life for families, educators, and dinosaur fans of all ages. For more information and tickets visit www.jurassicquest.com. About Brick Fest Live Founded in 2013, Brick Fest Live is the number-one attended brick event for families worldwide. As part of the Family Quest Entertainment portfolio, Brick Fest Live produces events in venues across the United States, in addition to selling licensed LEGO® merchandise at each of its brick-themed events and through various e-commerce channels. The Brick Fest Live experience brings a fresh perspective to family-friendly events by celebrating LEGO® products and the lifelong love for brick-building. Its shows include over 1 million bricks on display, as well as several hands-on activities and attractions that provide families with fun, safe, educational, and interactive environments designed to inspire, educate, and entertain. About L2 Capital Partners L2 Capital (www.L2Capital.net) is a lower middle market private equity firm in Devon, PA and Miami, FL that has delivered market leading returns since 2010 by investing in niche lower middle market leading consumer and business services companies. L2 executes a differentiated operations-focused strategy by targeting founder and entrepreneur-led businesses that are at an inflection point where L2's breakthrough growth framework and direct operating expertise can quickly accelerate market share gain. Contact Details Eric PR & Marketing, LLC Eric Nemeth nemeth@ericpr.com Company Website https://familyquestentertainment.com/

September 19, 2023 07:29 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Bespoke Education Announces B Corp™ Certification for Commitment to Education

Bespoke Education

Bespoke Education Inc., which for more than 20 years has provided the highest quality tutoring, test preparation, and academic support to students from elementary through graduate school in both New York and France, today announced that it has become a Certified B Corporation™ ("B Corp"), recognizing and deepening its commitment to social and environmental responsibility. Bespoke Education chose the B Lab Impact Assessment for quantifying their environmental and social performance. Through B Lab, Bespoke underwent a rigorous and comprehensive review of its social practices and was assessed across five key components: governance, workers, community, environment, and customers. Upon completion of the Impact Assessment, Bespoke achieved an overall score of 89.9, placing the company above the average score of 51 set by “ordinary” (non-certified) businesses. Bespoke Education's 2023 full certification report can be found HERE. “Our certification reflects the transformational change Bespoke has undergone in recent years. In 2022, 70% of the students Bespoke tutored in the U.S. were from underserved communities,” said Tim Levin, founder and CEO of Bespoke Education. “B Corp certification is both a significant milestone and an important step in our continuing journey to help students reach their full potential by learning better with confidence and conviction.” About Bespoke Education With offices in New York and Paris, France, Bespoke Education’s mission is to provide exceptional educational support for students throughout their schooling. For over two decades, Bespoke’s team of tutors, proctors, and full-time staff have offered the highest quality tutoring, test preparation, and academic support to students from elementary through graduate school. Bespoke has worked with more than 35,000 students in the Tri-State area and around the world. Knowing the schools, administrators, and curricula in the areas where it serves, Bespoke builds long-term relationships with students, families, counselors, and administrators to provide the most comprehensive services. Bespoke believes the mentor-student relationship is fundamental to guiding students in acquiring new habits and skills. Once this trusting relationship is established and students meet with newfound success, they become increasingly confident and motivated to take on new challenges. About B Lab B Lab is transforming the global economy to benefit all people, communities, and the planet. A leader in economic systems change, our global network creates standards, policies, tools, and programs for business, and we certify companies - known as B Corps - who are leading the way. To date, our community includes 380,000 workers in over 5,000 B Corps across 79 countries and 153 industries, and more than 150,000 companies manage their impact with the B Impact Assessment and the SDG Action Manager. To learn more and join the movement, click HERE.Certified B Corporations, or B Corps™, are companies verified by B Lab to meet the high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability. Contact Details Razor Sharp PR Ray Young +1 512-694-6097 ray@razorsharppr.com Company Website https://www.bespokeeducation.com/

September 13, 2023 08:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Ambow Education’s (NYSE: AMBO) Innovative HybriU AI Digital Education Solution Showcases The Potential Of AI To Transform Education

Ambow Education Holding

By Faith Ashmore, Benzinga COVID-19 brought massive changes to the educational system globally. What was once thought to be largely infeasible has now become desirable and commonplace. Completely digital or hybrid learning experiences are now being utilized from K12 to higher education. However, there is limited infrastructure currently in place to support the dilemmas that arise from digital and remote learning. Put simply, companies like Zoom (NASDAQ: ZM) seem ill-equipped to handle all the nuances that play a role in online learning. That’s why artificial intelligence (AI) platforms and integrations are so integral to the future of the education sector. Ambow Education Holdings Ltd. (NYSE: AMBO) is leading the charge in integrating AI technology into the educational sector. Their ground-breaking solution, known as HybriU, is an advanced digital education total solution designed to empower students and bridge the gap between academia and industry. With the help of cutting-edge connective technology, HybriU aims to shatter traditional limitations in languages, regions, academia and industry – providing a seamless and immersive learning experience both online and offline. Ambow is a technology-driven educational company that primarily operates in the United States. Their latest offering, the HybriU AI digital education solution, is powered by the groundbreaking OOOK technology and is a patented solution that aims to modernize and enhance educational and workforce training for students. By integrating this powerful technology, Ambow aims to provide students with comprehensive and up-to-date resources, equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in today's rapidly evolving world. It is clear that the pandemic has significantly impacted the education system and teachers as much as students, bringing virtual elements to the classroom. With the need for hybrid education and technology integration, teachers have been burdened with additional responsibilities. Without proper maintenance and understanding, as well as functional platforms, teachers find themselves overwhelmed with technological demands, often taking away from their primary role of teaching. The implementation of AI technology, such as the HybriU digital AI classroom solution, can alleviate these problems. HybriU enables teachers to teach in a natural and easy manner, similar to a traditional classroom setting. The HybriU AI digital classroom is equipped with a student and teacher-tracking camera to ensure that a virtual student is not missing any important information or demonstrations. There are also mics throughout the classroom to pick up student and teacher statements, as well as a podium mic. All of this helps support seamless learning so no student is distracted by poor quality or unable to hear valuable information from a teacher or peers. HybriU’s utilization of OOOK technology enables the creation of personalized content that caters to diverse student populations. A shining example of HybriU's commitment to inclusion is its live subtitle feature and AI-generated voiceover, which allow students to access content in their native language. This feature is a game changer for those in virtual or hybrid learning environments, where language barriers can present significant difficulties. The technology offers benefits beyond inclusivity – students no longer need to dedicate time to taking notes as the AI will take care of that for them. Students can further engage in the learning experience by tagging and commenting on the AI-generated transcript, which is efficiently organized using an AI-powered indexing and tagging system. The tagging system also allows for efficient tracking of students’ progress and areas they may need additional support. These comments provide teachers with real-time feedback that can help with enhancing course materials and teaching style, creating an optimal learning atmosphere for all students. HybriU AI also offers unique features like 3D LED walls, which allow students to view complex models precisely and accurately. This is incredibly useful for disciplines like biology and medicine. Some classrooms also offer screens where students are reflected so the in-person teacher does not miss out on valuable interaction. For students who are being taught by remote teachers, there are O-Screens that offer lifelike, full-body views of the teacher. The online education sector is projected to grow from its 2022 value of $192 billion to $602 billion by 2030 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.2% over 2022-2030. The advantages offered by HybriU which are specifically designed to address this new education paradigm of hybrid learning potentially place Ambow Education in the right place at the right time to be a driving force in the industry and propel online learning experiences into the future. To sign up for a free demo of HybriU, visit http://www.hybriU.com or www.ambow.com. Ambow Education Holding Ltd. is a leading cross-border career educational and technology service provider, offering high-quality, individualized services and products. With its extensive network of regional service hubs complemented by a dynamic proprietary learning platform and distributors, Ambow provides its services and products to students in China and United States of America. This post contains sponsored advertising content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Kevin Derrivan kderrivan@amboweducation.com Company Website https://www.ambow.com/

September 12, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

New Army campaign inspires young Americans to take the first step to “Be All You Can Be”

YourUpdateTV

A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://youtu.be/Zr1Os51K6G8 On August 21, the U.S. Army unveiled “First Steps,” a new campaign that shows young Americans how they can start their journey to service. The campaign is built on the premise that American youth don’t need to have everything figured out from the beginning to make an impact. Taking a chance is the first step to achieving your goals. The campaign is a continuation of the “Be All You Can Be” brand refresh, which launched in March 2023. The new campaign offers an up-close, personal, and unfiltered look at Soldiers embarking on some of the most powerful experiences in their early Army journeys, including arriving at basic training, receiving their first patch, and hitting their first target from a battle tank. Maj. Sam Winkler is a shining example of where your first steps can take you in the U.S. Army. After immigrating to the United States from Nepal, she took her own first step: enlisting in the Army at 17 years old. Now, as a Soldier and a mom, she has used her passion for family to help lead a first grassroots effort transforming the way the U.S. Army supports parents in the force. Her efforts, in collaboration with other Army parents, led to the development of the Army’s Directive 2022-06: Parenthood, Pregnancy, and Postpartum. Twelve policy changes address key issues like family care planning, fertility treatments, paid parental leave, support in returning to work, and more. On August 30, Maj. Winkler conducted a nationwide media tour discussing the campaign and the limitless opportunities in the Army for youth to find their purpose, explore their passions, build connections, and join a community. Topics Maj. Winkler discussed included: The Army’s new “First Steps” campaign Her path to Army service and the many firsts along the way Her work to improve Army life for parents through the Directive on Parenthood, Pregnancy, and Postpartum The limitless possibilities and benefits available to Army Soldiers and their families To learn more, visit: https://www.goarmy.com/ Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

September 04, 2023 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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New Survey Reveals Rise of Tethered Nomading: Digital Nomads Answer the Office's Beckoning

MBO Partners

The latest research conducted by MBO Partners® has uncovered a new workforce phenomenon - "Tethered Nomading" - redefining the world of digital nomadism. Contrary to traditional globetrotting norms, more than half (53%) of American digital nomads now plan to embrace their work-travel lifestyle exclusively within the United States; 47% plan on spending at least some time in another country. Only 10% of all digital nomads intend to spend the entire year abroad. As employers call employees back to the office, digital nomads still plan to continue their nomadic lifestyle. However, the data underscores an uptick in "slomading"- visiting fewer locations but spending more time at each stop. The MBO Partners 2023 State of Independence study found that 17.3 million American workers currently describe themselves as digital nomads, increasing 2% from 2022 after increasing a staggering 131% from the pre-pandemic year 2019 to 2022. "As employers enforce back-to-office mandates, a paradigm shift is unfolding, revealing the dynamic evolution of the modern-day nomad," said Miles Everson, CEO of MBO Partners. "While a considerable number of digital nomads are gravitating towards domestic pursuits, this presents an opportune moment for employers to embrace that spirit of exploration while fostering seamless connections to local communities. It calls for innovative policies and practices as employers navigate a world that includes adventure and productivity." This year's study showed five additional key insights about digital nomads, including: The Silver Nomads Are Rising… and Fast. While digital nomads have traditionally skewed young, older cohorts -- Gen Xers (born 1965-1980) and Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964) -- increased their share of digital nomads from 36% in 2022 to 42% in 2023. With the decline of the pandemic, older workers are more willing to travel and more interested in becoming digital nomads. Digital Nomads Hit the Road with Their Kids (and Pets). The survey showed that nearly a quarter (24%) of digital nomads travel with their children, and 14% even bring their pets. But traveling with kids is more challenging and complex than traveling alone or even as a couple. The top challenges digital nomads with kids cited are the expenses associated with traveling as a family, safety, and health concerns, the lack of stability and routines, educational challenges, and socialization issues for their children. Geoarbitrage Becomes Hack for Financial Freedom. To help stretch their income, many digital nomads work from places with relatively low living costs, including destinations like Southeast Asia or Portugal, which has established itself as a European hotspot popular with nomads. At the same time, they often serve customers virtually in higher-wage labor markets, or their employers are in higher-wage countries. Combining low-cost living with higher expat income, they can take advantage of income/living cost "geo-arbitrage." This enables lower-income digital nomads to fund their travels and spend less time working to support themselves and more time enjoying their adventures. Nomadic Camouflage Becomes the New Workforce Hue. In this year's survey, 14% of digital nomads with traditional jobs reported that their employer does not know they are nomadic. An additional 18% say their company has no digital nomad policy, but their boss has permitted them to work nomadically. In other words, about one-third of digital nomads with traditional jobs are "hidden nomads," meaning the company does not know where they are working. This means they could break local employment laws and regulations without their employer knowing they are doing so. The Nomad Rush: Countries and Cities Vying Hard for Digital Wanderers. Five years ago, digital nomads were considered an eccentric and fringe group of nomadic workers. But digital nomadism is now mainstream, and this year 17.3 million Americans – a stunning 11% of American workers – are digital nomads. Governments at all levels, both in the U.S. and abroad, realize that digital nomads spend more money than tourists, create jobs for locals - and even start local businesses. Because of this, 58 countries have created special digital nomad visas and other programs, smoothing out red tape and making it easier for digital nomads to locate in their countries. To obtain a copy of the 2023 MBO Partners Digital Nomad research brief, please visit www.mbopartners.com/state-of-independence/digital-nomads. About MBO Partners® MBO Partners is a direct sourcing platform that enables enterprises and independents to work efficiently together. Its unmatched experience and industry leadership enable it to operate on the forefront of the independent economy and consistently advance the next way of working. For more information, visit mbopartners.com. Contact Details Karen Swim +1 586-461-2103 karen@wordsforhirellc.com Company Website https://mbopartners.com

August 29, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Comcast and Pikes Peak Library District Partner to Boost Library Wi-Fi

Comcast Colorado

Comcast in Colorado is partnering with Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) to bring Comcast Lift Zone connectivity centers to four Library locations in Colorado Springs: Library 21c, as well as Penrose, East, and Ruth Holley libraries. Comcast Lift Zones provide an additional free Wi-Fi network that will increase the number of Internet users the Library can support at once without compromising quality of service. Comcast started Lift Zones as part of its ongoing commitment to connect low-income families to the Internet so they can fully participate in educational opportunities and the digital economy (called digital equity). The COVID-19 pandemic revealed disparities in digital equity, and Comcast responded by bringing Lift Zones to education and community centers. “Access to high-speed internet and digital skills training is no longer a luxury, but a necessity, making connectivity more important than ever. We are honored to partner with Pikes Peak Library District to ensure more people in the Colorado Springs area have access to fast, reliable, and secure connectivity year-round,” said J.D. Keller, Sr. Vice President, Comcast Mountain West Region. “From doing homework, searching for jobs, accessing healthcare services and so much more, partnerships like the one with Pikes Peak Library District are important to make sustainable progress to advancing economic mobility and promoting digital equity in our communities.” “Lift Zones at these libraries will be valuable assets for our whole community, especially for people who don’t have access to Wi-Fi at home. It will be easier to do things like search and apply for jobs, download documents for work and school, meet virtually, collaborate virtually on large creative projects, or enjoy leisure activities like downloading games or streaming shows,” said Lance James, chief development officer and foundation executive officer of the PPLD Foundation. “Access to high-speed internet and digital skills training is no longer a luxury, but a necessity, making connectivity more important than ever. We are honored to partner with Pikes Peak Library District to ensure more people in the Colorado Springs area have access to fast, reliable, and secure connectivity year-round,” said J.D. Keller, Sr. Vice President, Comcast Mountain West Region. “From doing homework, searching for jobs, accessing healthcare services and so much more, partnerships like the one with Pikes Peak Library District are important to make sustainable progress to advancing economic mobility and promoting digital equity in our communities.” Pikes Peak Library District Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) provides everyone with access to resources and opportunities so people can thrive and connect. The Library cultivates spaces for belonging, personal growth, and strong communities via 16 facilities, mobile library services, and a large online hub of resources. It is an internationally recognized system of public libraries serving a population of nearly 700,000 across 2,070 square miles in El Paso County, Colo. Learn more at ppld.org. Comcast – Internet Essentials For over a decade, Comcast has been on the forefront of closing the digital divide. The I nternet Essentials program is the largest and most successful broadband adoption initiative in the industry. Since 2011, Comcast has connected more than 600,000 Coloradans through Internet Essentials, many for the first time. About Comcast Corporation Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company that connects people to moments that matter. We are principally focused on broadband, aggregation, and streaming with over 56 million customer relationships across the United States and Europe. We deliver broadband, wireless, and video through our Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky brands; create, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, Universal Studio Group, Sky Studios, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, multiple cable networks, Peacock, NBCUniversal News Group, NBC Sports, Sky News, and Sky Sports; and provide memorable experiences at Universal Parks and Resorts in the United States and Asia. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. Contact Details Leslie Oliver +1 303-810-6326 leslie_oliver@comcast.com Company Website https://colorado.comcast.com/

August 24, 2023 02:24 PM Mountain Daylight Time

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