diciembre 2020 – Página 57

Kia Command the Season Event Going on Now at Lehighton Kia

LEHIGHTON, Pa., Dec. 22, 2020 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — As with many automakers throughout the industry, Kia is holding an exciting sales promotion this year called Command the Season. Taking advantage of the program, shoppers can save money on the brand’s new lineup of vehicles that are more than ready to tackle winter conditions on or off the road. One dealership local to Lehighton, Pennsylvania, is not only participating in the promotion, but shoppers can research the…

Lehighton Kia has an ever-growing resource of information dedicated to helping shoppers find the right vehicle to meet their needs. Filled with informative pages detailing each of the models available at the dealership, potential buyers can find the information they need regarding each model all in one place.

The Command the Season promotion provides 0% APR for 66 months for qualified buyers plus $1,000 holiday bonus cash on certain vehicles. These vehicles include the 2021 Kia K5, Seltos, Stinger, Telluride and Sportage. Alternatively, shoppers interested in the 2021 Kia Sportage can instead get $2,500 customer cash when purchasing that vehicle. These offers cannot be combined.

Residents interested in learning more about the vehicles available with the promotion can check out the aforementioned research pages, giving them information on things like performance, space and the types of features found within the vehicle. These pages and many more can be found on the dealership’s website, http://www.lehightonkia.com.

Specific questions about the promotion or the vehicles on offer can be directed to the sales team at 484-464-0945. Lehighton Kia is located at 1502 Blakeslee Blvd. Dr. East in Lehighton.

Media Contact

Stefanie Crothers, Lehighton Kia, 484-464-0945, sjrosado@rosadogroup.com

SOURCE Lehighton Kia

Greenberg Traurig Represents BayWa r.e. in Installation of the Company’s Largest Onshore Wind Project to Date

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 22, 2020 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Global law firm Greenberg Traurig, LLP served as lead counsel for BayWa r.e. in the financing, and sale of the 250 MW Amadeus Wind Project, which completed construction and achieved financial close in December. Situated northwest of Abilene in Rotan, Texas, the wind farm is BayWa r.e.’s largest onshore wind project completed to date and «will generate enough clean, renewable energy to meet the electricity needs of more than 74,800 homes annually,» according to a press release issued by BayWa r.e.

«We were pleased to assist BayWa r.e. in the installation of this significant and strategically located wind project,» said Greenberg Traurig’s Global Head of Energy Project Finance, Jeffrey A. Chester, who led the Greenberg Traurig team. «Despite the profound global business challenges presented by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the completion of the Amadeus Wind Project demonstrates the consumer demand and strong market fundamentals for U.S. wind installations.»

Chester, an Energy & Natural Resources Practice shareholder in the firm’s Los Angeles office, has deep experience handling transactions related to renewable energy, having closed more than 100 wind and solar power projects throughout the United States and Mexico. He has been centrally involved in the development of the equity, debt, and capital markets for renewable energy projects and represents developers, sponsors, lenders, and investors in a wide variety of energy finance transactions.

In addition to Chester, the multi-office Greenberg Traurig team included Shareholders Christopher L. Bell, Robert J. Downing, April B. Kim, Jillian C. Kirn, Gregory K. Lawrence, Andrew W. Scher, and Labry Welty; Of Counsels Alejandra Garcia Earley and Margaret J Weil; and Associates Ernesto Danache, IV and Thomas O. Lemon.

According to BayWa r.e.’s press release, the Amadeus Wind Project comprises of 96 GE wind turbines, will provide millions of dollars in tax benefits to the local community, will decrease the need for power generated from fossil fuels, and will keep over 648,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide from being emitted into the atmosphere on an annual basis. BayWa r.e., which is committed to delivering renewable energy solutions worldwide, is part of BayWa Group, a business with revenues of $19.1 billion.

About Greenberg Traurig’s Energy & Natural Resources Practice: Greenberg Traurig’s Energy & Natural Resources Practice has broad transactional, regulatory, and litigation experience across most sectors of the energy industry, including oil and gas, LNG, electricity, coal, wind, solar and other renewable energy sources, and water. The firm’s exceptional multi-office platform, including key offices in major energy centers, enables us to serve and implement legal strategies for energy clients throughout the U.S. and internationally.

About Greenberg Traurig: Greenberg Traurig, LLP (GT), has approximately 2200 attorneys in 40 locations in the United States, Latin America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. GT has been recognized for its philanthropic giving, diversity, and innovation, and is consistently among the largest firms in the U.S. on the Law360 400 and among the Top 20 on the Am Law Global 100. The firm is net carbon neutral with respect to its office energy usage and Mansfield Rule 3.0 Certified. Web: http://www.gtlaw.com

Media Contact

Lourdes Brezo Martinez, Greenberg Traurig, 2128012131, martinezl@gtlaw.com

SOURCE Greenberg Traurig

Surgent CPE Presents New Webinar on the Just Passed Coronavirus Relief Bill, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021

RADNOR, Pa., Dec. 22, 2020 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — As part of an attempt to reduce the damaging impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress has just enacted a new package of tax changes that accountants and other tax and financial professionals absolutely must know to effectively advise clients. This legislative package addresses and answers many of the questions tax practitioners had with respect to the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan forgiveness process, making it easier for most PPP borrowers…

These changes also provide additional assistance to unemployed individuals and economically distressed businesses, including another version of the PPP loan regime for businesses bypassed by the earlier version. Every tax practitioner will need a thorough grounding in these new legislative changes.

Surgent CPE, a division of KnowFully Learning Group, is offering a new 2-hour live webinar, The New Coronavirus Stimulus Package: Update and Analysis of Individual and Business Tax Changes, which will premiere on December 23rd. A team of tax experts led by Michael J. Tucker, CPA will cover major topics such as:

Changes to PPP loan relief applications, including a simplified loan forgiveness process for certain loans
Businesses eligible for forgiveness loans under the new PPP loan program
Deductibility of eligible business expenses funded with a PPP loan
Basis increase for tax-exempt income associated with PPP loan forgiveness
Aid for state and local governments
New stimulus checks for individuals
Liability protection for businesses and business owners against lawsuits brought against them for COVID-19 related damages
Expansion of Federal supplemental unemployment insurance benefits
Changes to limitations on charitable contributions
Changes to deductions for business meals
Other changes incorporated in the new legislation impacting individuals and businesses

See the full course preview video here.

Surgent’s VP of Strategic Content Development, Nick Spoltore, explains, «This course is illustrative of both our speed to market and the value provided to our customers. From release of legislation to course premiere, barely 36 hours will have elapsed. And of course, this offering will enable our customers to immediately advise individual and business clients on the latest COVID guidance and relief. In addition, our other year-end inventory will be updated with the same due speed without sacrificing attention to detail. For instance, our Paycheck Protection Program course is currently in its eighth iteration. It too will immediately reflect these changes in law so that our customers can continue to rely on us for such timely continuing education to enhance their practices and profits.»

Throughout 2020, Surgent CPE has provided 19 different courses, educating nearly 10,000 attendees specifically on the tax, accounting, and financial impacts of the pandemic. Surgent CPE remains committed to offering these crucial topics that help tax professionals navigate today’s complex, challenging, and quickly changing environment.

ABOUT SURGENT CPE
A fast-growing company with a 35-year history of leadership in accounting, finance, and tax education, Surgent CPE has become known as one of the most trusted providers of the Continuing Professional Education (CPE) that CPAs need to earn each year to maintain their professional credentials. Surgent CPE is a division of NexPhase Capital-Backed KnowFully Learning Group, a leading provider of continuing professional education, exam preparation courses, and digital learning solutions to the accounting, finance, and healthcare sectors.

For more information, please visit http://www.surgentcpe.com/

Media Contact

Dawn VanDerWende, KnowFully Learning Group, (610) 688-4477, VanDerWended@knowfully.com

SOURCE Surgent

PayPal Check-Cashing Fees Waived For Second Round Of Government-Issued Stimulus Checks

SAN JOSE, Calif., Dec. 22, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — With the recent passage of the second COVID-19 relief bill which included stimulus payments for individuals, PayPal Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: PYPL) has today announced that check-cashing fees associated with the PayPal cash-a-check feature are being waived for government stimulus paper check recipients, enabling more customers to access their funds usually within minutes, from the safety of their own home, free of charge.

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Additionally, those customers who used the PayPal or Venmo Direct Deposit feature to receive a stimulus payment in the first round of stimulus payments earlier in 2020 will automatically receive their payment directly through PayPal or Venmo again, if they’re eligible for a second payment. The IRS has advised that the original Direct Deposit details on file will again be utilized to issue this round of stimulus payments.

«In the first wave of the government’s stimulus payments in April and May, we saw an incredible number of customers look to PayPal as a way to receive their stimulus payment quickly and securely, either through Direct Deposit or using the PayPal cash-a-check feature,» said John Kunze, Senior Vice President of Branded Experiences, PayPal. «With the next round of payments to individuals coming soon, customers receiving a government-issued paper stimulus check over the coming weeks will be able to cash their check without visiting a physical check-cashing location, simply by taking a picture of the check within the app to receive the funds quickly and easily.»

Additionally, the usual fees associated with instant funds access will now be waived for all government-issued stimulus checks processed within the PayPal app using the cash-a-check feature, so customers can access their funds typically within minutes of cashing their check, without compromising their health and safety.*

Using PayPal’s cash-a-check feature from the safety of your home
The PayPal cash-a-check feature allows customers to cash checks and have them sent to a PayPal Cash Plus account. If they haven’t already, customers can apply for a PayPal Cash Plus account within the app or online.

Using the fast-access cash-a-check feature is simple – customers in the US can take a picture of the check they want to cash, and send it for review using the PayPal app on a mobile device, rather than visiting a physical check-cashing location. Reviewing a check for approval usually takes a few seconds, although it can take 3-5 minutes and in rare circumstances, up to an hour to verify enough check information to make an approval decision. 

If the check is approved, customers can have the money transferred to a PayPal Cash Plus account in minutes, with the fees associated with instant disbursement waived for all government-issued stimulus checks processed within the PayPal app.  Step-by-step directions on using PayPal cash-a-check can be found here. Fees will be waived for a limited time only. Checks which aren’t approved will not be processed and funds will not be received through PayPal. For best performance, customers should have the latest version of the PayPal app installed and running the latest operating system on their mobile device.

About the PayPal cash-a-check feature:
*Limited availability. Terms apply. For more details, visit www.ingomoney.com/partners/paypal-terms-conditions. The cash-a-check feature is a service provided by First Century Bank, N.A. and Ingo Money, Inc., subject to the First Century Bank and Ingo Money Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy. Fees and terms apply. All checks subject to review for approval. Unapproved checks will not be funded to your account.

Limited to Direct Deposit of a federal or state check, where permitted under applicable law. For up-to-date information from the IRS, visit www.irs.gov/stimulus. Faster access to funds is based on comparison of traditional banking policies and deposit of paper checks from employers and government agencies, versus adding funds electronically using Direct Deposit. Direct Deposit and earlier availability of funds is subject to payer’s support of the feature and timing of payer’s funding.

About PayPal
PayPal has remained at the forefront of the digital payment revolution for more than 20 years. By leveraging technology to make financial services and commerce more convenient, affordable, and secure, the PayPal platform is empowering more than 350 million consumer and merchants in more than 200 markets to join and thrive in the global economy. For more information, visit paypal.com.

Media Relations Contact
Tom Hunter
thhunter@paypal.com

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SOURCE PayPal Holdings, Inc.

Center for Resource Solutions Confirms Greenberg Traurig as First Major Law Firm Certified by its Green-e® Energy Program

NEW YORK, Dec. 22, 2020 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — The non-profit Center for Resource Solutions (CRS) confirmed that Greenberg Traurig is…

NEW YORK, Dec. 22, 2020 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — The non-profit Center for Resource Solutions (CRS) confirmed that Greenberg Traurig is the first major law firm to be certified through its Green-e® Energy program. In addition, CRS has certified that Greenberg Traurig’s North American offices are powered by 100% renewable energy. The CRS Green-e® Energy program has been called the leading renewable energy certification program in the United States.

Going beyond North America, the global law firm’s 40 offices are now net carbon neutral with respect to their office energy usage, and are 100% powered by renewable energy, achieved by the purchase of renewable energy certificates (RECs).

«These are significant steps in furthering our continuing sustainability initiative by reducing our carbon footprint,» said Greenberg Traurig Chief Executive Officer Brian L. Duffy.

«To achieve these milestones, we entered into a long-term transaction for the purchase of RECs and associated compliance premiums from a new wind farm and a new solar project. This has truly been a global effort,» said Greenberg Traurig Shareholder Iskender «Alex» H. Catto, who leads the firm’s program and chairs its Power Industry Projects and Restructuring Practice.

The wind farm is currently in operation and the solar farm is expected to be operational prior to the end of 2020, Catto noted.

«This undertaking means that we are annually capable of offsetting up to 13 million kw/hours of global office electricity usage or its equivalent with clean, renewable energy,» Duffy said. «Our status benefits not only our planet but is also of direct benefit to many of our clients.»

Increasingly, companies are adopting sustainability initiatives and voluntary sustainability reporting. In fact, there is a trend in shareholder initiatives that require corporate sustainability reporting. As these clients implement their sustainability initiatives, they turn to look at the emissions in their supply chain. Greenberg Traurig, as a legal service provider, is a part of that supply chain. Therefore, Duffy said, the firm’s global net-carbon neutrality with respect to office energy usage allows clients to directly benefit by reporting reduced carbon emissions from within their supply chain.

«We did this because it is the right thing to do. We are a global law firm with both global and local clients. Carbon is a global issue that has both global and local impacts,» Duffy said.

Media Contact

Lourdes Brezo Martinez, Greenberg Traurig, LLP, 212-801-2131, martinezl@gtlaw.com

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SOURCE Greenberg Traurig, LLP

AWWA Statement on Release of Final Revised Lead and Copper Rule

DENVER, Dec. 22, 2020 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today announced the final Lead and Copper Rule. American Water Works Association President Melissa Elliott issued the following statement.

The American Water Works Association (AWWA) is committed to working toward a day when the potential for lead in drinking water is removed from every household and every community. Our 50,000 members have long-awaited the revised Lead and Copper…

As the final rule is announced, AWWA renews its commitment to the removal of all lead service lines in their entirety. The first step in accomplishing that task is the development of lead inventories in every community, and we enthusiastically support the inclusion of that requirement in the final rule. EPA reports that lead action level exceedances today among large systems are 90-percent lower than they were when the rule was first introduced in 1991. Still, the surest way to protect against lead in water is to remove the sources of lead. Water utilities will continue to be leaders in this monumental task, though removing lead service lines will require time and collaboration with property owners, manufacturers, state regulators, federal agencies, financing authorities, plumbers, code officials, local government and many others.

We expect the new rule to emphasize the importance of transparent and timely communications from water utilities to water consumers. Communication is essential in strengthening public trust between a utility and its customers. In fact, AWWA research shows that consumers who recall receiving communication from their utilities perceive their water as safer. Utilities increasingly see communications as integral to their missions, and they know their customers deserve clear and consistent outreach about lead risks, lead inventories, lead service line replacement and other lead-related issues.

AWWA looks forward to helping its members understand the content and spirit of the revised rule and to achieve its public health goals.

# # #

Media Contact

Greg Kail, American Water Works Association, 303-734-3410, gkail@awwa.org

SOURCE American Water Works Association

Viking Marks Float Out Of First Expedition Ship

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 22, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Viking® (www.viking.com) today announced its first expedition ship – the 378-guest <a target="_blank"…

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 22, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Viking® (www.viking.com) today announced its first expedition ship – the 378-guest Viking Octantis® – was «floated out,» marking a major construction milestone and the first time that the new ship touches water. Scheduled to debut in early 2022, Viking Octantis will spend her maiden season sailing voyages to Antarctica and North America’s Great Lakes. A second, identical expedition ship, Viking Polaris®, is set to debut in summer 2022 and will sail journeys to Antarctica and the Arctic. Viking has also developed a series of short videos about the new expedition voyages, ship design and prestigious scientific partnerships, which can be found on its website here.

«Working with Fincantieri over the last eight years, we have built the world’s most beautiful ocean ships. We are pleased to continue our partnership with Fincantieri’s VARD and celebrate this important milestone in the construction of our first expedition vessel,» said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. «In creating ‘the thinking person’s expedition,’ we are perfecting polar expedition cruising, and we will usher in a new era of comfortable exploration in the heart of North America. Viking Octantis and her sister ship, Viking Polaris, will allow our guests to explore further – to the ends of the earth as well as closer to home. I would like to thank our partners at VARD and everyone working at the yard for the hard work and dedication on the building of Viking Octantis; we look forward to welcoming her to our fleet in early 2022.»

The float out is significant because it denotes a ship moving into its final stage of construction. The float out ceremony of Viking Octantis took place today, December 22; she was then moved to a nearby outfitting dock for further construction and interior build-out. After final outfitting, Viking Octantis will be delivered at Fincantieri’s VARD shipyard in Søviknes, Norway.

Esteemed explorers Liv Arnesen and Ann Bancroft will be honored as ceremonial godmothers to Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, respectively. Arnesen, a native Norwegian, became the first woman in the world to ski solo and unsupported to the South Pole in 1994. Bancroft is the first woman to successfully ski to both poles. Arnesen and Bancroft also became the first women to ski across Antarctica in 2001. Together they co-founded Bancroft Arnesen Explore / Access Water, an initiative that aims to engage and empower more than 60 million minds to create a sustainable tomorrow.

Viking Expedition Ships

The new Polar Class 6 Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris will host 378 guests in 189 staterooms. Designed by the same experienced nautical architects and engineers that designed Viking ocean ships, the ships are optimally sized and built for expeditions – small enough to navigate remote polar regions and the St. Lawrence River, while large enough to provide superior handling and stability in the roughest seas. The ships will feature public spaces that are familiar to Viking’s ocean cruise guests but that have been reimagined for expeditions, as well as new public spaces created specifically for expeditions. Straight bows, longer hulls and state-of-the-art fin stabilizers will allow the ships to glide over the waves for the calmest possible journey; ice-strengthened Polar Class 6 hulls will provide the safest way to explore; and U-tank stabilizers will significantly decrease rolling by up to 50 percent when the ships are stationary. Viking’s expedition ships will feature modern Scandinavian design with elegant touches, intimate spaces and attention to detail. Highlights include:

The Hangar: An industry first, The Hangar brings true comfort to expedition cruising. This enclosed, in-ship marina permits the launch of small excursion craft through the ship’s multiple shell doors. The Hangar’s most innovative feature is an 85 ft. slipway that allows guests to embark on RIBs from a flat, stable surface inside the ship, shielded from wind and waves. There is also a FerryBox, a set of instruments continuously collecting and displaying data on water quality, oxygen content, plankton composition and more.
The Laboratory: Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, while hosting guests, will also be working research vessels with an onboard team of Viking Resident Scientists working on a variety of studies. Developed in consultation with Cambridge University and Viking’s other academic partners, The Laboratory, at 430 sq. ft., is designed to support a broad range of research activities and is equipped with wet and dry laboratory facilities, a sample processing area, fume cupboard, freezer and cool storage, comprehensive microscope optics and extensive bench space for analysis-specific instruments. Guests will have supervised access to The Laboratory, which is located in a glass-enclosed mezzanine above The Hangar, to learn from and participate with scientists undertaking primary research, an experience unique to Viking.
Expedition Equipment: Viking will offer a variety of ways for guests to experience their destination, according to their interests and activity level, at no extra charge. With a robust program of complimentary experiences, expedition equipment available for guests on Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris will include a fleet of military pro zodiacs designed for professional use in the harshest of environments; a fleet of two-seater Arctic-tested kayaks; and two 12-seater convertible RIBs. Each ship will also feature two six-guest submarines that feature revolving seats and 270-degree spherical windows for an incomparable undersea experience. Everything guests need will be provided: a Viking Expedition Kit will contain items like boots, binoculars and waterproof pants; each excursion will carry a full range of Safety Equipment, such as satellite phones, VHF radios, ropes, life jackets and a comprehensive shore survival kit; and all guests will receive complimentary use of Viking Excursion Gear, which includes specialty items like trekking poles, snowshoes and skis.
The Aula & Finse Terrace: Viking has created the world’s most advanced venue for learning at sea with The Aula, a stunning panoramic auditorium at the stern. Inspired by the University of Oslo’s famed ceremonial hall where the Nobel Peace Prize was historically awarded, The Aula will offer a dynamic venue for lectures and entertainment, with floor-to-ceiling windows and 270-degree views. Adjacent to The Aula through sliding glass walls is the Finse Terrace, an outdoor lounge area with comfortable couches and warming lava rock «firepits» – perfect for panoramic views of the surroundings. Together the two spaces can be combined to create an unmatched indoor-outdoor al fresco experience for guests to be immersed in nature.
Nordic Balcony: A first for polar expedition cruise vessels, all staterooms on board Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris feature a Nordic Balcony, a sunroom that converts into an al fresco viewing platform. Harnessing the Norwegian reverence for light and to create the optimal wildlife observatory at sea, the Nordic Balcony’s floor-to-ceiling, distortion-free glass at the very edge of the ship lets guests take the views in, while keeping the elements out. Should guests wish to feel even closer to nature, the top of the panoramic glass lowers to transform the stateroom into a sheltered lookout, with an observation shelf at elbow level to stabilize binoculars or a camera. Guests can choose from six stateroom categories that range from 222 sq. ft to 1,223 sq. ft: Nordic Balcony, Deluxe Nordic Balcony, Nordic Penthouse, Nordic Junior Suite, Explorer Suite and Owner’s Suite. All staterooms feature a Nordic Balcony, as well as a king-size bed and large bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated bathroom floor and anti-fog mirror. Every stateroom is also equipped with a unique floor-to-ceiling drying closet that circulates warm air to dry and store clothing and expedition gear.
Expedition Ship Suites: Nordic Junior Suites (322 sq. ft.) and Explorer Suites (580 sq. ft) on Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris rival those on Viking’s fleet of ocean ships, with abundant wood detailing and amenities that include additional storage and seating, an expanded bathroom with extended shower and double sinks, welcome champagne, a fully-stocked mini-bar replenished daily, complimentary laundry and shoeshine services, priority restaurant reservations and more. Explorer Suites feature two separate rooms, a Nordic Balcony and a full outdoor veranda. Additionally, each ship features one Owner’s Suite, which at 1,223 sq. ft, is twice the size of the Explorer Suites. With the most exclusive accommodations and amenities on board, it features two separate rooms – a living room with six-seat dining table and a bedroom – as well as a 792 sq. ft. private garden with a traditional Norwegian badestamp (wood-sided hot tub) and outdoor dining table.
Aquavit Terrace & Pools: Located at the stern and featuring a retractable glass dome, this indoor-outdoor heated sanctuary will allow guests to be surrounded by their destination as they swim and lounge in three different temperature-controlled pools, including an «inside-out» swimming experience.
The Nordic Spa & Fitness Center: In keeping with Viking’s Nordic heritage, The Nordic Spa on board is designed with the holistic wellness philosophy of Scandinavia in mind – with a thermal suite that features a Sauna, Snow Grotto and chaise lounges, as well as a warm hydrotherapy pool and badestamp (hot tub), surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows. A state-of-the-art Fitness Center will also provide the latest equipment and workout gear.
Explorers’ Lounge: Similar to Viking’s ocean ships, Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris have a two-deck Explorers’ Lounge at the bow of the ship, offering the perfect spot for taking in stunning scenery through double-height windows over a mug of mulled wine or glass of Norwegian aquavit.
Dining Choices: Viking’s expedition ships will offer an array of dining options that build on the successful venues from Viking’s ocean ships, but which have been redesigned for expeditions. The Restaurant will offer fine dining featuring regional cuisine and always-available classics; the casual World Café will be a new «market» concept that offers live cooking, an open kitchen, bakery, grill and premium seafood and sushi choices, as well as a wide range of international flavors; Mamsen’s, named for «Mamsen,» the Hagen family matriarch, serves Scandinavian-inspired fare; Manfredi’s offers the best of Italian cuisine; and 24-hour room service will be complimentary for all guests.
Enrichment On Board and On Shore: Connecting guests to their destinations through authentic experiences is central to Viking creating «the thinking person’s expedition.» As part of that commitment to destination-focused learning, Viking’s exclusive partnerships with the Scott Polar Research Institute at Cambridge University and The Cornell Lab of Ornithology will match leading researchers and educators with each expedition. The onboard expedition program is designed to prepare guests for their onshore experiences, with more than 25 experts accompanying each journey – the Viking Expedition Team (expedition leader and staff, photographer and submarine pilots) and Viking Resident Scientists (biologists, botanists, geologists, glaciologists, oceanographers, ornithologists, polar experts and researchers). On board, guests will enjoy daily briefings and world-class lectures about their destination – and engage with working scientists from renowned academic institutions in The Laboratory or participate directly in citizen science programs. On shore, guests can assist in fieldwork or interact through experiential activities during landings – such as monitoring birds to help identify migratory patterns; accompanying scientists to collect samples; or taking their cameras ashore alongside a professional photographer to learn how best to capture scenic landscapes.
Sustainable Features: Compliant to all guidelines and regulatory requirements from AECO, IAATO, the Antarctic Treaty System and the Governor of Svalbard, Viking’s expedition ships minimize environmental impact and meet the most stringent emissions and biosecurity standards. Additionally, the straight bow reduces fuel consumption, and a dynamic positioning system enables the ship to hover over the seabed without anchoring, allowing access to pristine environments without damage.

Media Assets

For more information, images and b-roll for Viking, contact vikingpr@edelman.com.

About Viking

Viking was founded in 1997 and provides destination-focused journeys on rivers, oceans and lakes around the world. Designed for experienced travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers guests «the thinking person’s cruise» in contrast to mainstream cruises. In its first five years of operation, Viking has been rated the #1 ocean cruise line in Travel + Leisure‘s 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020 «World’s Best» Awards. In addition to the Travel + Leisure honors, Viking has also been honored multiple times on Condé Nast Traveler‘s «Gold List» as well as recognized by Cruise Critic as «Best Overall» Small-Mid size ship in the 2018 Cruisers’ Choice Awards, «Best River Cruise Line» and «Best River Itineraries,» with the entire Viking Longships® fleet being named «Best New River Ships» in the website’s Editors’ Picks Awards. For additional information, contact Viking at 1-800-2-VIKING (1-800-284-5464) or visit www.viking.com. For Viking’s award-winning enrichment channel, visit www.viking.tv.

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SOURCE Viking

Hong Kong Turns to Technology to Dazzle this Christmas

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 22, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — To ensure the festive season feels unique and immersive, Hong Kong retailers, businesses and artists have tapped into technology to bring Christmas to the city like it’s never been done before.

<a href="https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1390981/HKTB_2020_Hong_Kong_WinterFest.html" target="_blank"…

360-degree Virtual Tours of Hong Kong’s Festive Central Business District
Welcome to the joyous world of Christmas Town! Part of 2020 Hong Kong WinterFest, a citywide celebration spearheaded by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, this virtual wonderland transports its web visitors to Statue Square, a historic public space in the heart of Central.

Just like Hong Kong’s real-life Central Business District, Christmas Town is surrounded by iconic skyscrapers and all decked out for the holidays, showcasing a towering tree and festive Christmas lodges. Adding an extra Hong Kong touch, Uncle Siu – a popular English educator known for his charming voice – leads visitors through the innovative, 360-degree online experience, where many interactive stops await.

In a snow-kissed virtual Central Business District, visitors can choose their own Christmas Town adventure from a computer or mobile device:

Learn how to make festive DIY crafts, such as aromatic wreaths, ornaments, pop-up holiday cards or candle holders, via video tutorials
Download holiday-themed WhatsApp stickers designed by famous Hong Kong illustrators, like Din Dong, Dustykid and Messy Desk
Tune in to beautiful Christmas carols along the way

Take a 360-degree virtual tour of Christmas Town, part of the 2020 Hong Kong WinterFest until January 3, 2021.

World’s First AI-Powered Butterfly Art Installation
In Wan Chai, a 7-meter stained-glass butterfly and over 350 LED butterflies have turned Lee Tung Avenue into a playground of light. Dubbed «Butterflies of Hope,» the world’s first AI-powered butterfly art installation aims to inspire and uplift, reminding visitors of all the hope, love, beauty and positivity in the world.

Each afternoon, when the sun shines high in the sky, the glass installation refracts natural light onto the ground, effectively painting the boulevard with light and radiant colors. Come evening, a music-and-light symphony takes flight as the butterflies «dance» to the sound of music using artificial intelligence.

The Lee Tung Avenue atrium is also home to a stunning, 12-meter tall Christmas tree with powerful special effects. Combining touchless interactive technology and a special shadow projection technique, the tree projects butterflies onto the clothes of visitors – a feat of art and technology.

Enjoy the AI festivities at Lee Tung Avenue until January 10, 2021.

Globoscope, a Light Installation from France, Debuts in Asia at K11 MUSEA
K11 MUSEA, a new cultural-retail destination and arts hub on the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade, has turned up the Christmas spirit this year with «A Very MUSEA Christmas Village.» The village displays with a roster of artistic cultural experiences, including the Asia debut of Globoscope.

Created by Collectif Coin, a renowned French art lab, the site-specific immersive light show stretches across the Bohemian Garden open rooftop space. A 20-minute private experience with Globoscope can be reserved to enjoy a surreal, sensory light exhibit with family or friends where glowing spheres dance and swirl in choreographed light movements, while the dramatic Hong Kong skyline shines in the distance.

K11 MUSEA has also installed a Christmas Forest with glistening golden trees in the mall’s atrium, not to mention a special Santa Muse Parade and a Christmas Market.

Experience A Very MUSEA Christmas Village through January 3, 2021.

«Christmas Every Day» Goes High Tech with Virtual Santa Meet-and-Greets
For the past 50 years, Harbour City has marked the holiday seasons with larger-than-life Christmas installations and festive surprises. This year, Harbour City’s «Christmas Every Day» celebration once again promises unforgettable holiday memories, plus a roster of online experiences at your fingertips.

This holiday season, take a virtual tour of Harbour City’s incredible decorations throughout the mall and «check-in» on social media or share your Christmas wish list with Santa during a virtual meet-and-greet. For the little ones, Harbour City has created an interactive online coloring game, where children can dress up «Monster Friends» – adorable 3D cartoon characters illustrated by Dutch artist Eva Cremers – and then watch masterpieces come to life.

At the «Christmas Lighting Garden» on the Ocean Terminal Deck, in-person visitors can wade through a sea of illuminated LED clovers and dandelions to enjoy the «Christmas Lighting & Music Show» every evening with the stunning Hong Kong skyline as a backdrop.

Enjoy Harbour City‘s «Christmas Every Day» online and offline experiences until January 3, 2021.

Images are available at https://hktb.filecamp.com/s/2020_Hong_Kong_Christmas/fo.

View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hong-kong-turns-to-technology-to-dazzle-this-christmas-301197782.html

SOURCE Hong Kong Tourism Board

Brandon Ford Welcomes 2021 Ford Super Duty Lineup Along With New Website Research Tools

TAMPA, Fla., Dec. 22, 2020 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Brandon Ford, a dealership in Tampa, Florida, that is the world’s largest volume Ford dealer, has welcomed the 2021 Ford Super Duty lineup to its lot, and is celebrating by adding multiple model research tools to its website.

The Ford Super Duty has long been one of the dealership’s most popular lineups, and it works hard each new model year to ensure its customers know all they need to know about the new pickup…

The Ford Super Duty has long been one of the dealership’s most popular lineups, and it works hard each new model year to ensure its customers know all they need to know about the new pickup truck lineup as it hits the Tampa lot.

This year is no different, as Brandon Ford has added not only a 2021 Ford Super Duty model research page to its website, but has also added numerous blog posts related to the new 2021 Ford Super Duty lineup.

The 2021 Super Duty model research page and subsequent blog posts cover everything interested customers want to know about the new pickup truck lineup – including powertrain options and engine power ratings, towing and hauling capabilities, trim level comparisons, and more.

All of these 2021 Ford Super Duty model research tools and more can be found on the Brandon Ford website at http://www.brandonford.com. Interested parties can also direct any questions they may have to the friendly and knowledgeable staff at Brandon Ford by calling 813-246-3673 or by emailing Tom Murray, the dealership’s marketing director, at tom@brandonford.com. Brandon Ford is located at 9090 Adamo Drive in Tampa.

Media Contact

Tom Murray, Brandon Ford, 813-371-7945, tom@brandonford.com

SOURCE Brandon Ford

Es poco probable que las mujeres embarazadas en el tercer trimestre transmitan la infección por SARS-CoV-2 a los recién nacidos

BETHESDA, Maryland, 22 de diciembre de 2020 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Es poco probable que las mujeres embarazadas que están infectadas con SARS-CoV-2, el virus que causa la COVID-19, durante el tercer trimestre transmitan la infección a sus recién nacidos, sugiere un estudio financiado por los Institutos Nacionales de la Salud. El estudio hizo seguimiento a 127 mujeres embarazadas que fueron admitidas en hospitales de Boston durante la primavera de 2020. Entre las 64 mujeres embarazadas que dieron positivo en SARS-CoV-2, ninguno de sus recién nacidos dio positivo en el virus. El apoyo de los NIH fue proporcionado por el Instituto Nacional de Salud Infantil y Desarrollo Humano (NICHD) Eunice Kennedy Shriver, el Instituto Nacional del Corazón, los Pulmones y la Sangre (NHLBI) y el Instituto Nacional de Alergias y Enfermedades Infecciosas (NIAID).

«Este estudio brinda cierta tranquilidad de que es poco probable que las infecciones por SARS-CoV-2 durante el tercer trimestre pasen a través de la placenta al feto, pero es necesario realizar más investigaciones para confirmar este hallazgo», dijo Diana W. Bianchi, MD, directora del NICHD.

El estudio, publicado en la revista JAMA Network Open, fue dirigido por Andrea G. Edlow, M.D., M.Sc., del Massachusetts General Hospital [Hospital General de Massachusetts] y la Harvard Medical School [Escuela de Medicina de Harvard].

Los investigadores estudiaron la aparición de la infección por SARS-CoV-2 en el tercer trimestre del embarazo, y evaluaron los niveles de virus en muestras de tejido respiratorio, sanguíneo y placentario; el desarrollo de anticuerpos maternos; qué tan bien esos anticuerpos pasaron a través de la placenta al feto (un indicador de posible protección inmunitaria de la madre) y examinaron el tejido placentario. Los resultados informados se limitan a mujeres en el tercer trimestre porque aún se están recopilando y evaluando datos sobre mujeres infectadas durante el primer y segundo trimestre.

Entre las que dieron positivo en SARS-CoV-2 en el estudio, el 36 % (23/64) era asintomático, el 34 % (22/64) tenía enfermedad leve, el 11 % (7/64) tenía enfermedad moderada, el 16 % (10/64) tenía enfermedad grave y el 3 % (2/64) tenía enfermedad crítica. El estudio incluyó, como comparadores, 63 mujeres embarazadas cuya prueba resultó negativa en SARS-CoV-2 y 11 mujeres en edad reproductiva con COVID-19 que no estaban embarazadas.

El equipo descubrió que las mujeres embarazadas que dieron positivo en SARS-COV-2 tenían niveles detectables del virus en fluidos respiratorios como saliva, secreciones nasales y de garganta, pero ningún virus en el torrente sanguíneo o la placenta.

Los investigadores no encontraron diferencias significativas entre los niveles de anticuerpos contra el SARS-CoV-2 producidos por mujeres embarazadas y no embarazadas. Sin embargo, el equipo del estudio observó niveles de anticuerpos protectores en la sangre del cordón umbilical más bajos de lo esperado. En contraste, encontraron altos niveles de anticuerpos específicos contra la influenza, presuntamente provenientes de la vacunación contra la influenza materna, en las muestras de sangre del cordón umbilical de mujeres que dieron positivo y negativo en SARS-CoV-2. Los investigadores sugieren que estos hallazgos pueden indicar que los anticuerpos contra el SARS-CoV-2 no atraviesan la placenta tan fácilmente como otros anticuerpos maternos.

Los investigadores creen que el suyo es uno de los primeros informes de transferencia de anticuerpos contra el SARS-CoV-2 al feto menor de la esperada. Se observó una baja transferencia de estos anticuerpos independientemente de la gravedad de la COVID-19 de la mujer o si tenía una condición de salud subyacente, como obesidad, presión arterial alta o diabetes. Los autores del estudio señalaron que será importante determinar por qué es menos probable que estos anticuerpos maternos atraviesen la placenta y si esta transferencia reducida de anticuerpos hace que los recién nacidos sean más vulnerables a la infección por SARS-CoV-2, en comparación con otras infecciones. Los autores agregaron que será importante determinar cómo los niveles más bajos de anticuerpos maternos contra el SARS-CoV-2 pueden afectar los resultados de salud de los bebés prematuros porque la COVID-19 puede aumentar el riesgo de trabajo de parto prematuro.

El estudio también encontró que las placentas de las mujeres infectadas no eran diferentes de las de las mujeres no infectadas, aunque el riesgo de isquemia (flujo sanguíneo reducido) en la placenta parecía mayor para las mujeres con COVID-19 más grave. De acuerdo con un informe anterior, los investigadores también encontraron que si bien la placenta expresa las principales moléculas utilizadas por el SARS-CoV-2 para causar infección (el receptor ACE2 y la enzima TMPRSS2), las dos moléculas rara vez se expresan juntas en la misma ubicación, lo que puede ayudar a explicar por qué el virus rara vez afecta a la placenta.

Los investigadores sugieren que sus hallazgos podrían ayudar a mejorar la atención de las mujeres embarazadas con COVID-19 y de sus recién nacidos, así como proporcionar información para ayudar en el desarrollo de nuevas estrategias para vacunar a las mujeres embarazadas.

ARTÍCULO:
Edlow AG, et al. Assessment of maternal and neonatal SARS-CoV-2 viral load, transplacental antibody transfer, and placental pathology in pregnancies during the COVID-19 pandemic. JAMA Network Open DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2020.30455 (2020)

Acerca del Instituto Nacional de Salud Infantil y Desarrollo Humano (NICHD) Eunice Kennedy Shriver: el NICHD lidera la investigación y la capacitación para comprender el desarrollo humano, mejorar la salud reproductiva, mejorar la vida de niños y adolescentes, y optimizar las habilidades para todos. Para obtener más información, visite https://www.nichd.nih.gov.

Acerca de los Institutos Nacionales de la Salud (NIH): NIH, la agencia de investigación médica de los EE. UU., incluye 27 institutos y centros y es un componente del Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de los EE. UU. NIH es la principal agencia federal que realiza y apoya investigaciones médicas básicas, clínicas y traslacionales, y que investiga las causas, los tratamientos y las curas para enfermedades comunes y raras. Para obtener más información sobre los NIH y sus programas, visite https://www.nih.gov.

FUENTE Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development; National Institutes of Health (NIH)