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Nofar Energy, one of Israel's leading renewable energy companies, acquired 67% of the rights to Blue Sky Utility for a total consideration of $91M.

Nofar Energy Ltd.

Nofar Energy LTD (“Nofar”), a global renewable energy power producer with activity across Europe and Israel, acquired 67% of the interest in Blue Sky Utility (“Blue Sky”), a US based, Commercial and Industrial (“C&I”) solar and storage developer for a total consideration of $91M. The acquisition capital will be divided up between $26M of initial purchase and equity injection into Blue Sky and a debt facility of $65M provided for future growth investments. Blue Sky is a renewable energy and storage developer, based out of Napa, CA. Blue Sky specializes in a unique business model tailored to the C&I space with a focus on multitenant real estate. The company’s business model is characterized by scalability and uniformity. The company currently operates and manages over 20MW of C&I assets and maintains a near term pipeline of over 80MW of new solar and storage installations. For Nofar Energy, this transaction represents its entry into the U.S., which aligns to the company's strategy to expand its operations into the world’s leading markets and synergetic to Nofar’s expertise in the C&I space. Both the US market and the C&I segment continue to demonstrate robust growth with an estimated increase of 25% in 2021 vs. 2020. Nofar and Blue Sky expect the investment to accelerate the execution of Blue Sky’s existing near-term pipeline and the implementation of several hundreds of MW in development. “Nofar engaged in a thorough investigation of the US market,” noted Ofer Yanay, Nofar’s founder and Chairman, “and through this process we became aware of Blue Sky and their unique business model. Blue Sky’s qualities resemble those of Nofar Energy; an emphasis on C&I projects, high level of scalability and uniformity and a set of capabilities and execution track record that present significant barriers to imitation.” Nadav Tana, Nofar’s CEO added, “we have singled the U.S. market as one of Nofar's most important destinations and I am pleased to announce this significant investment.” “We’re excited to be joining forces with Nofar,” explained Ran Bujanover, Blue Sky’s President, “in Nofar we found a partner that shares our market philosophy and has the capacity to support our acceleration.” Barend Venter, Blue Sky’s CEO further elaborated, “Nofar’s excellence in the C&I space demonstrated real synergies. The combination of our two companies has the potential to create a real powerhouse in the local C&I space.” Beta Finance served as financial advisor, Lummus Consultants as technical advisors, ICF as market advisors, KPMG as accounting and tax advisors and Barnea Jaffa Lande & Co and WilmerHale LLP served as legal counsel to Nofar Energy. Garrett Stiepel Ryder served as legal counsel to Blue Sky. About Blue Sky Utility: Blue Sky Utility LLC is a privately-held renewable energy and storage company headquartered in Napa, California. Blue Sky develops, builds and manages C&I solar and energy storage facilities throughout the United States. Blue Sky’s unique business model allows commercial real estate stakeholders to benefit from on-site affordable renewable energy and storage solutions. Blue Sky owns 15MW and operates over 20MW of solar assets, with an existing near-term pipeline of over 80MW and several hundred of MWs in development. Learn more at www.blueskyutility.com. About Nofar: Nofar Energy (O.Y. Nofar Energy LTD.) is a publicly traded company at the T.A Stock Exchange (TASE), with a global renewable energy power producing activity across Europe, Israel and the US. Founded in 2011, the company has evolved at incredible speed thanks to its multidisciplinary capabilities and innovative approach. Nofar Energy has strong internal capabilities which translates into a competitive advantage, as it conducts the development, design, permitting, planning, financing, constructing, operating and maintenance, and long-term holding of its projects. Integrating these capabilities enables Nofar to promote projects throughout the entire value chain while maintaining strict standards. The company operates in the Renewable Energy industry, and its activities include ground-mounted solar projects, floating solar projects, rooftop solar projects, and electricity storage projects. Nofar Energy has developed an impressive portfolio of projects in Israel and Europe, containing thousands of megawatts of power producing projects. Learn more at www.Nofar-Energy.co.il/en Contact Details Dikla Ivry Pardnoy +972 52-380-4085 dikla@ivripr.com Company Website https://www.nofar-energy.com/

July 28, 2021 09:21 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Purify Fuel Captures Silver Medal at CleanEquity Monaco Event For its Emission Reduction Solution for Diesel

Purify Fuel

Purify Fuel received the silver medal for its nanO2 ESG combustion catalyst technology at CleanEquity® Monaco 2021 which took place last week. CleanEquity® is an annual invitation-only event hosted by Innovator Capital, the London based specialist investment bank. The event attracts investors from around the world to hear pitches from emerging technologies designed to reduce environmental impacts. “Purify Fuel was delighted and honored to receive second place recognition at CleanEquity® Monaco 2021 amongst such an impressive field of presenters” stated Purify Fuel’s CEO John Carroll. “With the world’s focus on developing immediate fossil fuel alternatives, we cannot lose sight of the reality that the majority of industries are still dependent on heavy duty diesel fuel applications and searching for ways to reduce emissions. We were pleased that the immediate benefits of our nanO2 ESG combustion catalyst to help this primary fuel source burn cleaner were recognized by this august body”. Other partners and sponsors of the conference include Prince Albert II of Monaco’s Foundation, Cision, Covington & Burling, Cranfield University, the Monaco Economic Board and Taronis Fuels. Purify Fuel has been identified as one of the world’s most innovative sustainable technology companies and presented to selected sovereign, corporate, family and professional investors, policy makers, end users and international trade media. Its nanO2 ESG combustion catalyst technology provides a transitional solution that will help fight climate change until alternatives are invented. The product has been extensively tested since the middle of last year and has been aggressively launched across multiple industries (rail, marine, oil and gas, and mining). Since 2018 it has treated 50MM gallons of diesel removing the equivalent emissions produced by 139,000 automobiles. Purify Fuel uses patented nanotechnology-based rare earth oxides to help large diesel operators save money and reduce emissions. Purify Fuel’s nanO2 ESG Combustion Catalysts® are custom blended to optimize diesel fuel and biodiesel blends for marine, fracking, military, mining, power generation, and rail markets. The combustion catalysts increase energy harvested from each gram of fuel while reducing particulate matter emissions and soot created by incomplete combustion. Purify Fuel works directly with large consumers of diesel and biodiesel fuel to help them save money, increase power, and reduce emissions. For more information on Purify Fuel, please visit purifyfuel.com Contact Details Purify Fuel Carleen Lyden Walker +1 203-260-0480 c.walker@purifyfuel.com

July 27, 2021 04:53 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Code 1 Supply Now Offering COVID-19 and Influenza Combination Testing Kits per CDC Recommendation

Code 1 Supply

Code 1 Supply, a leading distributor of best-in-class medical diagnostics, brand-name supplies and equipment and provider of CPR training equipment and student materials, is responding to the Centers For Disease Control’s (CDC) call for laboratories to consider adopting a multiplexed method that can facilitate detection and differentiation of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza viruses by offering the LifeSign Status™ COVID-19 Flu A&B rapid combo test to laboratories and medical offices as flu season approaches. The LifeSign Status™ COVID-19 Flu A&B rapid test is a qualitative assay for the simultaneous detection of influenza A&B antigen and SARS CoV-2 antigen from nasopharyngeal swabs obtained from patients with respiratory symptoms. The LifeSign Status™ COVID-19 Flu A&B rapid test is the only EUA authorized visual-read COVID-19/Flu rapid combo test on the market. Such assays can facilitate continued testing for both influenza and SARS-CoV-2 and can save both time and resources as testing for both viruses increases. “The COVID-19 pandemic has led to many scientific innovations that continue to help detect and monitor the virus in our communities," said Matt Regan, CEO at Code 1 Supply. “As we get closer to flu season, it’s important for doctor’s offices, clinics and laboratories to prepare for an influx in testing that the CDC expects for both COVID-19 and influenza. Offering combination tests to authorized purchasers helps cut down on the number of tests being ordered and allows providers to test more patients in a timely manner.” The LifeSign Status™ COVID-19 Flu A&B rapid test is available now for purchase through Code 1 Supply. Representing the most trusted and respected manufacturers of medical diagnostics, supplies and equipment, Code 1 Supply offers next-day shipping for all orders and free shipping on orders over $750. To learn more about how Code 1 Supply can support your COVID-19 and influenza testing needs, please visit www.code1supply.com. About Code1Supply Code 1 Supply is a national distributor of best-in-class medical diagnostics, brand-name supplies and equipment and a leading provider of CPR training equipment and student materials. Representing the most trusted and respected manufacturers of medical diagnostics, supplies and equipment, Code 1 Supply is committed to providing innovative products and outstanding services at the best prices. We are proud to be the medical supply partner for healthcare providers, hospitals, urgent care centers, businesses and communities nationwide. For more information, visit www.code1supply.com. # # # Contact Details Rita Murphy +1 774-454-1516 rita.murphy@svmpr.com Company Website https://www.code1supply.com/

July 27, 2021 03:06 PM Eastern Daylight Time

BitX Funding Offers Amazon Loans for Every Seller

BitX Funding

Fairfield, Conn. July 10, 2021—Sellers can be assured that BitX Funding has its back when it comes to securing working capital. Whether they be well-established or just starting out, BitX Funding offers anything from merchant cash advances, small business loans, and invoice factoring to any and all entrepreneurs. “BitX Funding can take the entrepreneur and get them up and running with startup liquidity of up to $400K. We can take a company that is successful but has less than $1 million in inventory and provide them more funding. For companies that are well established with $1 million-plus in inventory, we can take them to higher highs,” says Todd Rowe. BitX Funding’s inventory finance process works by evaluating what type of seller you are. Unlike banks that look to see if you have a qualified, brick-and-mortar store, BitX Funding opens the gates for 3P sellers and allows for more money at a faster rate. When you put in the application, you’ll receive a value based on your equipment/inventory in around 3 to 4 weeks. As long as you have a product to sell, the option is yours for the taking. “Everyone struggles,” says Rowe. “You grow to a certain point and can’t get any higher. After a period of time, you can’t just tap your friends and family anymore.” Amazon can be a gold mine of opportunity. It just takes one sale sometimes to catch the businessman bug. Working with a fintech as established as BitX Funding can solidify your goals and make the idea of loans a delight rather than a nightmare. BitX Funding is the online marketplace for small business owners looking to fund a project. We specialize in connecting small business owners with lenders who will compete for your business. We believe small business owners drive the economy and we are passionate about helping your company reach its full potential. Using our Amazon inventory financing services, we can help ensure you receive the funding needed to grow your business. You can reach a loan specialist toll-free at 1-800-824-2407, or email info@bitxfunding.com or apply online and we can guide you on which loans are the best fit for your business. Contact Details BitX Funding Todd Rowe +1 203-763-1430 info@bitxfunding.com Company Website https://www.bitxfunding.com

July 27, 2021 01:04 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Emax Launches #LevelUp with A Modern PC Campaign

Emax

Emax is the largest electronics retailer in the GCC. It has the widest selection of electronics in the UAE, with over 200 brands and 20,000 products all under one roof. The award-winning brand offers a diverse product range that includes photography, IT, mobiles, accessories, drones and robotics, sound and vision, personal audio, gaming, personal care, home appliances, health, and fitness. The brand provides solutions to enhance people's lifestyle and homes with the latest electronics, appliances, and gadgets from trusted brands such as Samsung, Apple, Microsoft, LG, Panasonic, Sony, HP, Bose, Siemens, Lenovo and more. Emax’s latest campaign, “#LevelUpWithAModernPC” encourages consumers to share their #LevelUp Story and win a Modern PC. The campaign further brings forth the promise, "You've got the talent, We’ve got the tech”. So, if technology is the driving force behind your success story, share with us how a Modern PC will help you do what you’re good at better and faster. Innovate and churn out your best creative works. And stand a chance to win a Modern PC ”. Providing impetus to this campaign is Microsoft – a valued partner supporting empowered consumers to achieve more using modern devices. Redington is yet another pillar of strength and technological partner without whom this endeavour would be incomplete. Keeping in mind the changing dynamic of consumer experience when it comes to sophisticated gadgets, Redington offers a plethora of devices for new-gen youth and professionals. The #LevelUpWithAModernPC campaign allows users to post their stories online and get an opportunity to win a Modern PC. The campaign is open to residents in Gulf. Speaking on the campaign, Emax commented, " The rationale of the #LevelUpWithAModernPC is to encourage consumers to explore and consider technology upgrades via modern devices. With the changing paradigm, a cross-section of students, working professionals, businessmen who spend several hours on PC are constantly looking for faster, smarter and tech-savvy products to enhance their deliveries while discovering a new dimension in them." Hence whether you are already on top or are gearing to reach the top, a Modern PC is the perfect, realistic and readily available solution for all! To make this campaign a huge success, the company has roped in renowned influencers from Dubai, viz. Nimmy, Big Rossi, Faith, Ines, Nikita and many more. They will share their interesting #LevelUp stories and encourage their followers to do the same. Furthermore, to inspire the audience to share their #LevelUp stories, Emax will give a Modern PC to all the winners. These stories can be viewed on the Emax campaign website (https://emax-ms.emaxme.com/), and audiences can like and share them and leave their comments. Though the campaign has just taken flight, we expect an overwhelming reach of 12-13M impressions and some exciting entries from our audience. Contact Details Pulp Strategy Ambika Sharma ambika@pulpstrategy.com

July 27, 2021 01:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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NextFerm Technologies Announces First Commercial Purchase Order of ProteVin™ in the US

NextFerm Technologies Ltd.

NextFerm Technologies (TASE:NXFR), a food-tech company developing ProteVin™, a vegan, yeast-based, non-GMO protein alternative and other innovative yeast-based nutrients, announced that it has received first commercial Purchase Order for ProteVin™ from a US customer. The Purchase Order, of $70K, was received from PrimaLife Nutrition, a new brand aiming to be the first to launch a vegan sports protein powder based on ProteVin™ in the US and to provide athletes for the first time with a vegan formula with nutritional value similar to whey protein powder and excellent taste. This Purchase Order marks the achievement of a second out of three milestones set by the company for 2021 according to its strategic plan for commercialization of ProteVin™ in 2022. In light of the progress with a number of potential customers, the company expects to receive additional Purchase Orders for ProteVin™ by the end of 2021. On the production side, the company is currently in dialogues with several potential subcontractors in the food industry and is progressing as planned towards engagement with a subcontractor by the end of 2021. Boaz Noy, Chief Executive Officer of NextFerm, said, “ We are happy to announce of the receipt of first commercial Purchase Order for Protevin™ by PrimaLife Nutrition LLC, an emerging vegan-based sports’ nutrition brand from Florida. This order represents the achievement of yet another important milestone for commercialization Protevin™ by 2022, earlier than anticipated, and serves as a great vote of confidence in our technology and the benefits it has to the end consumers. In light of our progress with other potential customers, we expect to receive additional orders in the coming months as we advance towards engagement with manufacturing sub-contractor before the end of this year.” Walter Ross, Owner of PrimaLife Nutrition, said, “ I intend to promote Protevin™ through multiple channels, including digital campaigns as well as traditional brick and mortar stores. As someone who has received education and certifications in Sports Nutrition and Personal Training, I see great value in Protevin™ due to its high degree of sustainability and complete amino acid profile. Having a single-ingredient, environmentally friendly, and complete protein, with digestibility comparable to whey, makes Protevin™ a perfect solution. I also believe its flavor-neutral profile and a shelf-life similar to current market categories make implementing the technology and creating a demand feasible,” Mr. Ross concluded. About NextFerm Technologies NextFerm Technologies, traded on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange (TASE:NXFR) is a food-tech company engaged in the research, development, manufacturing and marketing of innovative, functional and vegan yeast-derived, non-GMO protein alternatives for various applications in the food and food supplement markets and the growing market for animal-derived protein alternatives. NextFerm's flagship product is ProteVin™, a vegan, yeast-derived protein alternative with nutritional value that is similar to animal-derived protein and a neutral flavor, with no aftertastes that are typical of plant-based protein. ProteVin™ is designed for a variety of categories in the alternative protein market, which is estimated at $13 billion, with an annual growth rate of 10%, including milk and dairy substitutes, meat substitutes and additional categories such as infant nutrition, adult nutrition, and sports nutrition. NextFerm is gearing up for commercialization of the product in the US in 2022. Another product currently being sold is Astaferm®, an innovative astaxanthin-based antioxidant derived from yeast that has been sold in the US since the end of 2020 through well-established and leading brands in the food supplement market in the US. The company has additional products which have been licensed to Lallemand, a global giant focused on yeast. For more information, visit the NextFerm website at: www.nextferm.com Legal Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This announcement also includes forecasts, projections, assessments, estimates and other information which refer to future events and matters, the realization of which is uncertain and not exclusively under the Company’s control (forward-looking information). The main facts and data used to support this information are facts and data regarding the current position of the Company and its businesses (including the scope of sales and levels of profitability, manpower, commercial engagements and more), facts and data regarding the current global position of the Company’s operating segments (including industry-specific financial developments, environmental regulatory developments, the competitive environment, technological developments, the reinsurance market and more), and macro-economic facts and data (including the economic situation both in Israel and around the world, yields in the capital markets, social and state developments and more), all as known by the Company when publishing this announcement. The forward-looking information included above in this announcement is significantly based upon, in addition to the existing information held by the Company, on the Company’s current assessments and expectations of future developments vis-a-vis each one of the aforementioned parameters, and the interconnectedness of each one of these developments. The Company has no certainty that its forecasts and assessments will indeed eventuate, and the Company’s operating results may be materially different than the results assessed or implicit based on that set forth above, inter alia, as a result of a change in any of the aforementioned factors. Contact Details Nextferm Technologies Ltd. Yossi Ohana - Chief Financial Officer +972 54-771-5893 yossio@nextferm.com Investor and Media contact Meirav Gomeh-Bauer +972 54-476-4979 meirav@bauerg.com Company Website https://www.nextferm.com/

July 26, 2021 10:03 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Rebecca and Kirk Treece Open Minuteman Press Franchise in Missoula, Montana

Minuteman Press International Inc

Rebecca and Kirk Treece are the new owners of Minuteman Press in Missoula located at 2100 South Avenue West. They bought the long-running independent printing business Advertiser Montana Printing, which has a 40-year history in Missoula, and are now operating as a Minuteman Press franchise. Rebecca says, “It is a real honor to become part of Missoula’s thriving business community. The Palmers (former owners) had a 40-year long relationship with this community and their loyal customers have welcomed us and trusted us with their service, which has given us a great start here in Missoula.” She continues, “We are enjoying the opportunity to help others promote and grow their business. Getting the word out to the community that we are so much more than just a copy center has been key! We have been out meeting new people, marketing, and making connections through the Missoula Chamber of Commerce and BNI groups. Over the course of these six months, people have been welcoming and genuinely happy for us when we tell them about our new venture. Many have stopped by for a tour and have been responsive to learning more about the services we provide.” One of the ways Rebecca is looking to stand out as a new business owner is by expanding on the products and services offered by Minuteman Press and educating clients on what is in high demand right now. She explains, “Our high-demand products are business cards, menus, point of sale products like invoices and forms, and medical facility materials. As businesses open up, the demand for envelopes, letterhead, and other consumables has grown. Being part of Minuteman Press family has given us a huge opportunity to share with customers our expanded line of products like mailing, signage, apparel, and promotional items. It has really given us the ability to help people promote their business.” “Missoula is a growing, vibrant, and diverse community that includes the University of Montana. We are sitting on the confluence of three beautiful rivers, between two amazing national parks. Owning a business for me is all about making connections. My goal is to help people market their business so they can use their unique skills to serve their clients. These growing businesses make our community stronger and I am proud to be part of that.” -Rebecca Treece, owner, Minuteman Press Missoula (formerly Advertiser Montana Printing) Career Transition Prior to Minuteman Press, Rebecca and Kirk had varying careers. Rebecca shares, “Before owning my own business, I was utilizing my teaching degree as a vision therapist at an optometry office in Missoula, working with children and adults to improve their visual skills. My husband Kirk was previously a financial and operational manager for a large company. He and I also own a franchise of Fish Window Cleaning and Sunbelt Business Brokerage. We are familiar with business and the franchise concept, but were really drawn to the Minuteman Press structure, training, support and record of success.” While Rebecca and Kirk have experience owning a business, they had never been involved in the printing industry before. Minuteman Press really helped them fill those knowledge gaps and was crucial in finding the right business for them to buy through their special conversion program that connects sellers of independent print shops with qualified buyers. Rebecca says, “Advertiser Montana Printing was an independent print shop that had been in business for 40 years and they had a very loyal base of long-standing customers. An established customer base was the opportunity we were looking for when buying a new business. Our goal is 100% retention and we have worked diligently to meet and develop relationships with each customer. We hit the ground running and it gave us an opportunity to get experience across the board. Our local Minuteman Press field representatives were able to train us on every aspect of the business, which gave us the confidence to meet the demands of our customers.” “The support from Minuteman Press has been exceptional. The training was very comprehensive, and we felt like we were well-prepared for starting up and getting straight to work. We also know exactly who to call when we have a question or issue to manage. The network of Minuteman Press is amazing in the way that everyone is there for you at any time and in any capacity that you need. The expertise of the training and the continual mentoring are the powerful tools we need to succeed.” Owning a Business vs. Having a Job Reflecting on her experiences as an employee and as a business owner, Rebecca shares her insights on the key differences between the two. “As an employee, you work hard and serve the customer. However, you have very little control over the direction of the business. As business owners, we have the power to create the type of business we want and control its presence in the community.” As for Minuteman Press in Missoula, Rebecca and Kirk know exactly where they want to go. She says, “Our goal is to become the premier printing and advertising design company in Missoula and the Greater Northwestern Montana area. We want to develop the reputation for supplying the highest quality products and having superior customer service. We strive to make Minuteman Press in Missoula the place to go for all advice and services. The main lesson Minuteman Press impressed upon me is that if you do not like the current state of your business, change it! Get up, get out there, market, make connections, and grow your business. We have been given the tools and the support to create something great and that is extremely exciting for us.” When asked about the rewards of owning her own business, Rebecca answers, “We are truly fortunate to have a highly skilled and dedicated staff and I love coming in every day to work side-by-side with these incredible people. It is personally rewarding to create a workplace that fosters teamwork and allows employees to create and take pride in their work. It is also very satisfying to develop quality relationships with customers and members of the community.” She continues, “Professionally, our goals are to grow this business significantly over the next year and become more involved members of the community. Business ownership has many challenges but the rewards are well worth it. Owning our own business allows us to balance our work and home lives and gives us the power to make the right decisions for our future.” Minuteman Press in Missoula is located at 2100 South Avenue West, Missoula, MT 59801. For more information, call (406) 728-5200 or visit their website: https://missoula-mt.minutemanpress.com. Learn more about #1 rated Minuteman Press franchise opportunities at https://minutemanpressfranchise.com. Independent printers looking to sell their printing business can learn more about Minuteman Press International's conversion program at http://bit.ly/minutemanpressconversions. Contact Details Minuteman Press International Chris Biscuiti +1 631-249-1370 cbiscuiti@mpihq.com Company Website https://minutemanpressfranchise.com

July 26, 2021 10:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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News Release

INTRODUCING KAYLA ELIZABETH

Kayla Elizabeth

Move over shoe clips, sandal charms and clip-on medallions. Shoelry™ has entered the style scene. Up-and-coming accessory designer Kayla Elizabeth has launched her eponymous line of shoe jewelry designed to kick your look up a notch—or ten. They are made with sneakerheads in mind who like to look glam from head to toe. The collection features seven shimmering styles that attach to (and easily detach from) shoelaces. They can be worn on their own or mixed and matched, stacked and layered in multiples. Each is cast in gold- or silver-plating, decked with chromatic luxe European crystals. “I want my collection to make people feel like their best self and add a touch of luxury to their look at an accessible price point,” Kayla explains. “My first designs are timeless staples that can transform and level up any outfit, while bringing joy through sparkle and shine.” Kayla (Lastella) Antonecchia is a beauty industry veteran with an innate maximalist sense of style. Inspired by a trip to Milan, she launched her line in 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic in partnership with her husband Mike Antonecchia, a music industry alum. She incorporates her love of Feng shui, all-things sparkly and celestial, and memories of her grandmother’s covetable jewelry collection into the very heart and soul of her designs and business. To learn more about Kayla Elizabeth, please visit www.shopkaylaelizabeth.com and follow on Instagram: @kaylaelizabethofficial. Contact Details Yaya Publicity Yael Fraynd +1 212-217-2621 Yael@yayapublicity.com

July 21, 2021 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

7 in 10 Parents Say Children’s Post-Pandemic Social Skills Are at Risk, Per Osmo Study

Osmo

According to a new study of 2,000 U.S. parents of school aged-children (5-14 years), parents have tried a myriad ways to keep their kids active and social during the pandemic, however, 7 in 10 perceive their child’s post-pandemic social skills to be at risk, even as things return to normal. The majority of parents (71%) are also worried about potential learning loss that may have resulted by not being in school, and are pursuing a variety of means to keep up their child’s studies at home this summer. The study was commissioned by STEAM brand Osmo and conducted by OnePoll. Osmo’s study reveals that 77% of parents encouraged their child to be social and active from afar, while at home. For example, they allowed their child to: play video games or online games with others (52%); call and text friends often (49%); make neighborhood friends (45%); engage in outdoor activities like walking and bike riding (46%); attend virtual get togethers (35%); and new friends online (23%). Despite trying their hardest, two in three parents are worried that their child has gotten more socially awkward around others, and 62% do not think their kid will be able to pick up where they left off upon returning to class this fall. Specifically, parents worry that their child will have trouble in these areas: making conversation with friends (41%); meeting new people (40%); sharing (35%); staying quiet for long periods (34%); waiting their turn (31%); or remembering to say “please” and “thank you” (37%). The survey also revealed that parents value socializing, with 85% believing it is a necessary skill to use in school. Forty-four percent of respondents place academic learning and socializing on the same level of importance, and four in five (81%) think schools should implement more activities that encourage and teach social skills. “We understand how difficult the pandemic was for both kids and their parents – many of us at Osmo experienced these challenges ourselves,” says Pramod Sharma, CEO of award-winning Osmo, known for its bestselling Coding Starter Kit, Creative Starter Kit, Genius Starter Kit, and Little Genius Starter Kit. “This past year has taught all of us that learning is about so much more than academics. As a brand, Osmo is committed to applying these insights toward multi-player experiences that promote the social-emotional learning parents look for and kids need.” The study also reveals four in five parents made sure their children succeeded academically even through tough times and emphasized that school was as important as ever before. Over half of parents (52%) stuck by their child’s side when they struggled with an assignment, 47% encouraged their child to study more, 43% tried to make learning fun through games or educational activities, while 42% percent took the time to create extra homework to ensure their child understood the material they were learning during homeschooling. However, three in four parents believe their child lost a year of proper education due to COVID, and the majority (71%) are concerned that it will be difficult for their kids to catch up on learning they may have missed. With this in mind, four in five (81%) believe that certain technology or entertainment tools may be the solution to improving both their child’s social and educational skills. When asked what subject they think their kids are most likely to struggle with, parents said math (41%) followed by science (37%) and language arts (34%). Additional parental concerns about children’s re-entry to class include: not remembering their school supplies and books (42%); focusing in class (41%); or using a full keyboard not attached to a tablet (36%) again; opening their locker (32%); and doing their homework every day (32%). About Osmo Osmo is an award-winning STEAM brand with more than 2.5 million learners worldwide. It is building a universe of hands-on play experiences that nourish the minds of children by unleashing the power of imagination. The company brings physical tools into the digital world through augmented reality and its proprietary reflective artificial intelligence. Osmo is headquartered in Palo Alto, California. Learn more at playosmo.com. Contact Details Carolyn Kamii PR Carolyn Kamii +1 310-251-0550 carolynkpr@gmail.com Osmo Karen O'Dell karen@playosmo.com Company Website http://www.playosmo.com

July 20, 2021 03:30 AM Pacific Daylight Time

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