febrero 2021 – Página 119

Staniel Air embraces ‘COVID-Smart’ Travel

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Feb. 18, 2021 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Staniel Air, a boutique air service that provides flights from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to the Exuma islands of the Bahamas, offers answers for those who are ready to travel but are still hesitant to do so. Through semi-private air service and private villa offerings, Staniel Air provides the traveler community with a solution that is thoughtful and diligent by design, through…

‘COVID-Smart’ travel is a mode of traveling more cautiously, by making travel and accommodation choices that offer selective, private and more isolated environments, providing the best chance of avoiding COVID-19, while also making extra safety precautions easy and accessible for travelers.

Staniel Air’s ‘COVID-Smart’ experience begins with requiring proof of negative COVID-19 PCR test from all travelers prior to boarding the flight. This means that when travelers fly with Staniel Air, all fellow passengers have been pre-screened. With only 9 passengers on board, the carrier offers a semi-private flight experience, more isolated and environmentally controlled than larger commercial carriers. So travelers can take flight feeling more confident that the virus isn’t on board and sitting in the seat next to them.

In addition, Staniel Air flies from a private executive airport in Fort Lauderdale. This allows travelers to avoid large, busy airports and crowded terminals, in favor of a much smaller, quieter, private pre-flight venue.

Once arrived in Staniel Cay, an open-air transport takes guests to Staniel Air’s private villas at Lazy Bay, minutes away.

Through its design configuration, Lazy Bay private villas promote ‘COVID-Smart’ lodging. Three 2 bedroom / 2 bath private modern villas sit side-by-side-by-side and include fully equipped kitchens, wifi, housekeeping and breakfast delivered daily. Villas offer large open-air decks and private splash pools that can facilitate as much social distancing as desired. Private chef services are available so that travelers can have a fine dining experience inside their villa, rather than navigating local dining establishments which may be crowded or unfamiliar.

Villas are available as single unit or multi-rentals of 2 or 3. The privacy of a single unit allows safe distancing from others, while the proximity of the three provides accessibility when traveling in a larger group. Villas are intimate enough to accommodate 2, yet expansive enough to sleep up to 18 (all 3). Instead of sharing a single dwelling, larger groups traveling together become ‘neighbors’ during their stay, turning Lazy Bay into a self-contained private resort, complete with boats, wave runners and other amenities onsite.

A recent Lazy Bay guest, well-seasoned travel expert Chris Betzmann of the Betzmann Vlogs shared:

«The Staniel Air / Lazy Bay experience makes it easy to feel good about traveling again. Smaller, more contained venues, like a private villa, are simply smarter choices right now.»

To meet COVID testing requirements for return to the U.S. (or other countries), a rapid-testing service is located near Lazy Bay and is free of charge to travelers.

To book a ‘COVID-Smart’ travel experience, contact Staniel Air at 954-900-2739. Learn more about Staniel Air and Lazy Bay at the following links:

https://stanielair.com
https://stanielrental.com

Media Contact

Michelle Bidwell, Convergent Marketing, +1 2144152399, MIchelle@Stanielair.com

Philip Bidwell, Convergent Marketing, 2144151853, Phil@Stanielair.com

SOURCE Staniel Air

Jet It Takes Flight to Canada – Private Aviation Disruptor Launches Canadian Company + Operations

TORONTO, Feb. 18, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Private aviation industry veterans, Glenn Gonzales and Vishal Hiremath – founders of Jet It, an innovative private jet company – are expanding their Harvard-studied business model by establishing Jet It Canada. After growing from a single jet and two employees to a fleet of ten airplanes and a workforce of 65 in the US, Jet It has incorporated Jet It in Canada and…

Jet It offers a fixed hourly rate of $2,200 CAD, with no additional reposition, fuel surcharge, or landing fees.

Now established in Canada, Jet It offers its white-glove private jet service throughout the country at a fixed hourly rate of $2,200 CAD, with no additional reposition, fuel surcharge, or landing fees. Jet It Canada owners can buy one-tenth to half of an aircraft, and through the Jet It day-based model, they’ll have an aircraft available to them for an entire day and only pay for the occupied time at that rate.

Jet It has also aligned itself with one of Canada’s most widely respected private aviation companies -Skyservice Business Aviation – for its aircraft management and operations. «Skyservice is the premier operator in Canada with the best facilities, one of the largest managed fleets in North America and they have a focused commitment to service for the full range of their capabilities. They have an enthusiastic staff and an impeccable safety record spanning more than 35 years. As an aviation company run by Aviators, safety and service are our top priorities, and no one in Canada is better than Skyservice. We are honored to have Skyservice support our Canadian expansion,» says CEO Gonzales.

With continued interest and sales already underway, Jet It has enlisted the support of Canadian aviation industry veteran Jeremi Austin to direct sales and operations in Canada. Austin, a licensed pilot, and aviator has successfully sold aircraft management and pre-owned aircraft from every OEM, as well as new Diamond and HondaJet aircraft.

Gonzales goes on to say that Austin «is an exceptional talent with over 20 years of industry experience. He has earned and maintained an incredible reputation throughout Canada and the US and we are very fortunate to have him introducing Jet It to Canada.»

In speaking about Jet It Canada, Austin says, «Canadians are looking for an economical rate and access to business aviation for the entire day. They want a consistent experience at an expected price. The rapid growth of Jet It in the United States proves that Jet It is providing private travelers with a higher quality of life and with Jet It Canada this smart and refined way to travel is available to Canadians.»

Jet It Canada has already begun sales and expects to have its first C-registered aircraft in operation in the coming months. «The extension of Jet It operations from the US to Canada, and this month marking the beginning of operations in Europe through sister company JetClub, is a game-changer. The ability to travel between countries and continents and have the comfort of a known quantity that provides consistent and reasonably affordable transportation with an industry-leading level of service is an unmatched value. I am truly excited to bring the many benefits of Jet It and JetClub to fellow Canadians,» says Austin.

For more information on Jet It Canada and Jet Club, please visit:
www.gojetit.ca
https://jetclubgroup.com/

CONTACT: Dr. Akir Khan, (980) 254-0674, akir.khan@gojetit.com

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SOURCE Jet It

Delta Air Lines Taps IBM for Cloud Expertise and Red Hat Hybrid Cloud Platform

ARMONK, N.Y., Feb. 18, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — IBM (NYSE: IBM) and Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL) announced a multi-year agreement under which IBM will help lead Delta to the public cloud, in order to increase its agility, speed to market and innovation capabilities around digital transformation.

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As part of the expanded relationship, IBM will provide technology and industry expertise to modernize and migrate Delta’s applications to the public cloud. IBM will transform Delta’s computing environment to run on a hybrid cloud architecture built on Red Hat OpenShift, enabling a consistent, standards-based approach to development, security and operations across clouds. IBM’s team of experts, spanning travel transportation and technology, are working with Delta teams to utilize the IBM Garage Methodology and IBM hybrid cloud software, such as CloudPaks, to modernize existing applications and co-create new solutions powering Delta’s transformation. This will help Delta drive greater software engineering productivity and result in an enhanced customer experience in the future.

«As an airline industry leader, we understand the critical need to constantly evolve our digital presence and enhance our customer and employee experience to not only help respond quickly to the dynamic changing conditions but also reinforce brand loyalty from our customers,» said Rahul Samant, Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Delta Air Lines. «As one of many integral steps we are taking to advance our digital business transformation, IBM will help us migrate to the cloud and create a new operating model that will transform and modernize our technology platform.»

«This agreement expands our longstanding relationship with Delta Air Lines to help them accelerate and navigate their ambitious digital transformation journey,» said Mark Foster, Senior Vice President, IBM Services. «This long-term project will apply the power of IBM’s hybrid cloud approach, enabling Delta to develop applications once and deploy them anywhere, integrate security across the breadth of their IT estate, and automate operations with management visibility.»

IBM and Delta have a longstanding history of collaboration on transformative projects that have led to innovations for Delta and the airline industry. Early last year, the companies announced a multi-year collaborative effort via the IBM Q Network™ to explore the potential capabilities of quantum computing to transform experiences for airline customers and employees.

Contact: Chris Andrews, 845-612-6142, candrews@us.ibm.com

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/95470/ibm_logo.jpg

Nation’s Capital Welcomes Fifth D.C. Area Cambria Hotel

ROCKVILLE, Md., Feb. 18, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Cambria Hotels, an upscale brand franchised by Choice Hotels…

ROCKVILLE, Md., Feb. 18, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Cambria Hotels, an upscale brand franchised by Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH), continues to expand in key markets across the country with the opening of its newest downtown location: the Cambria Hotel Washington D.C. Capitol Riverfront. The nine-story, 154-room hotel is the brand’s fifth property in the greater Washington, D.C. area, among Cambria hotels in College Park, Maryland; Rockville, Maryland; Arundel Mills, Maryland; and in D.C. near the Convention Center. The hotel also marks the brand’s expansion in the D.C. and Maryland region, with six properties now open including in Ocean City, one of the most popular beach and vacation destinations on the east coast.

Located at 69 Q Street SW, the Cambria Hotel Washington D.C. Capitol Riverfront is situated in the heart of the District’s growing Capitol Riverfront neighborhood. The hotel provides travelers with picturesque views of the Potomac River and convenient access to nearby attractions, including The Wharf, which features concert venues, restaurants and local shops; Nationals Park; the Yards Marina, and the new Audi Field soccer stadium. The hotel is also within three miles of the U.S. Capitol, Fort McNair and the National Mall, and just a short walk to the Navy Yard Metro Station, which connects guests to destinations in Washington, D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia.

«For Choice Hotels, along with many of our collaborators on this project, this area is our home, so we’re especially proud to continue our expansion in the region and support the community we love with the opening of yet another Cambria hotel,» said Janis Cannon, senior vice president, upscale brands, Choice Hotels. «Like all Cambria properties, the Cambria Hotel Washington D.C. Capitol Riverfront is designed to ‘wow’ guests with locally inspired touches and stunning design, and built to accommodate the evolving needs of today’s traveler — whether they’re just getting back on the road, wanting to elevate their telework venue, or seeking the perfect staycation spot.»

The brand’s latest addition features upscale amenities reflective of the surrounding neighborhood’s vibrant history and culture, including:

Locally inspired design and décor: following a local resident’s suggestion, the cornice from the site’s original row house was salvaged and installed above the reception desk to honor the past, present and future of Southwest D.C.
Multi-purpose indoor and outdoor spaces for productive work or relaxation, including a 3,500-square-foot terrace, overlooking the Capitol building and offering scenic views of the D.C. skyline, as well as Perch SW, the property’s rooftop lounge opening in April featuring a local craft beer menu specially curated by the brand’s own certified cicerone.
RowHouse, the hotel’s ground-level restaurant that invites guests and locals alike to indulge in American-style cuisine and hand-crafted cocktails.
Contemporary and sophisticated guestrooms with views of the DC skyline, complete with design forward fixtures and a subtle nod to DC street art, abundant lighting, and plush bedding.
Immersive, spa-style bathrooms with Bluetooth mirrors.
2,500 square feet of multi-function meeting spaces.
State-of-the-art fitness center with access to Peloton cycling and bootcamp classes. Guests may also join instructor-led fitness classes such as rooftop yoga, Pilates and the hotel’s own Running with the GM program, or check-out yoga mats from the front desk for individual workouts.

The Cambria Hotel Washington D.C. Capitol Riverfront was developed by Donohoe Development — one of the largest independent managers of premium and select-service hotels in the Washington, D.C. metro area — in collaboration with Koucar Management and internationally renowned architect and interior design firm BBGM Architects. The hotel is managed by Donohoe Hospitality Services, a leading hotel management company dedicated to excellence in service while providing outstanding performance for its owners and partners. The property is the first Cambria Hotel to open in the Donohoe portfolio, in addition to a Cambria under construction in Portland, Maine, and one of four Cambria Hotels developed by Koucar Management, one of the largest private real estate developers in the Midwest. The Cambria Hotel Washington D.C. Capitol Riverfront is among four hotels opening in the first quarter of 2021 for the brand, in addition to hotels in Rock Hill, South Carolina; Orlando, Florida; and Fort Lauderdale Beach, Florida, which opened this January. There are currently more than 55 Cambria hotels open across the U.S. in popular cities such as Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, New Orleans and Phoenix, with nearly 80 hotels in the pipeline.

All Choice-branded hotels are participating in Commitment to Clean, an initiative that builds upon the strong foundation of franchisees’ long-standing dedication to cleanliness with enhanced training and best practices for deep cleaning, disinfecting and social distancing. Additionally, Cambria guests can limit their interactions with hotel staff by using the Cambria Contactless Concierge Service, a text messaging service for housekeeping requests, to-go food orders, meeting room requests and more.

For more information on Cambria Hotels development opportunities, visit choicehotelsdevelopment.com/cambriahotels.

About Cambria Hotels^®The Cambria Hotels brand is designed for the modern traveler, offering guests a distinct experience with simple, guilt-free indulgences allowing them to treat themselves while on the road. Properties feature compelling design inspired by the location, spacious and comfortable rooms, flexible meeting space, and local, freshly prepared food and craft beer. Cambria Hotels is rapidly expanding in major U.S. cities, with hotels open in Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Pittsburgh, and Washington, D.C. There are over 130 Cambria properties open or in the pipeline across the United States, with more than 55 currently open. To learn more, visit www.choicehotels.com/cambria.

About Choice Hotels^®
Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH) is one of the largest lodging franchisors in the world. With more than 7,100 hotels, representing nearly 600,000 rooms, in over 40 countries and territories as of September 30, 2020, the Choice^® family of hotel brands provide business and leisure travelers with a range of high-quality lodging options from limited service to full-service hotels in the upscale, midscale, extended-stay and economy segments. The award-winning Choice Privileges^® loyalty program offers members benefits ranging from everyday rewards to exceptional experiences. For more information, visit www.choicehotels.com.

About Donohoe Development Company
Donohoe Development is invested in revitalizing neighborhoods, creating value for investors and generating job opportunities for local residents. Donohoe Development is a division of The Donohoe Companies, a full-service commercial real estate company with expertise in the Washington, DC region. Donohoe Development has experience developing billions of dollars of commercial real estate from conception through building completion and management. Portfolio property types include office, hotel, retail, industrial, residential, and embassy properties. For more information visit www.donohoe.com/development.

About Donohoe Hospitality Services
Donohoe Hospitality Services is a leading hotel management company dedicated to excellence in service while providing outstanding performance for its owners and partners. Founded in 2005, Donohoe Hospitality Services is a division of Donohoe, an iconic real estate service company established in 1884. Building on its founders’ 135-year history, Donohoe Hospitality Services has grown to become one of the largest independent hotel management companies in the Washington, D.C. metro area and is rapidly expanding throughout the U.S. Donohoe Hospitality Services’ portfolio includes full service and premium select service hotels. The company presently has five hotels under development in the District of Columbia, Virginia, and Maine. Recognized as one of the top 35 management companies by total revenue, and as one of the 10 Best Places to Work by The Washington Business Journal, Donohoe Hospitality Services is a forward-looking company with a vision of success. For more information visit: www.donohoe.com/hospitality.

About Koucar Management
Koucar Management, LLC is a privately held, Michigan-based company with a diverse portfolio of holdings and investments. Our wide spectrum of business activities includes: general contracting, construction management, land development, residential, commercial and industrial construction, hotel, restaurant and property management, real estate services and equipment leasing. Koucar Management has an investment strategy that firmly focuses on expansion within existing industries, bringing new vitality to acquired businesses and laying the groundwork for new ventures. With our recognized management strengths and ample financial resources, Koucar Management is providing growth capital and other resources to its portfolio of companies, with a collective pipeline in excess of $250 million. Our vision is clear; motivated, skilled partners & employees, significant financial strength and stability, a willingness to look beyond conventional performance measurements and an untiring commitment to our customers. Since our founding, we have viewed obstacles as opportunities, placed a premium on sweat equity and sought out affiliates and individuals who share our passion for excellence. Working together, we guarantee the best is yet to come. Visit www.koucar.com.

About BBGM
BBGM is an internationally renowned architecture and interior design firm with extensive experience in the design and planning of hotels, resorts, hospitality, multi-family residential, office buildings, mixed-use complexes, master plans for development, and renovation / restoration projects. To learn more, please visit www.bbgm.com.

Forward-Looking Statement
This communication includes «forward-looking statements» about future events, including anticipated hotel openings. Such statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including construction delays, availability and cost of financing and the other «Risk Factors» described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, any of which could cause actual results to be materially different from our expectations.

Addendum
This is not an offering. No offer or sale of a franchise will be made except by a Franchise Disclosure Document first filed and registered with applicable state authorities. A copy of the Franchise Disclosure Document can be obtained through contacting Choice Hotels International at 1 Choice Hotels Circle, Suite 400, Rockville, MD 20850, development@choicehotels.com.

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SOURCE Choice Hotels International, Inc.

Urban Health Report Announces Holistic Health 100 List

CHICAGO, Feb. 18, 2021 /PRNewswire/ –The Urban Health Report (UHR), a digital health and wellness hub dedicated to eliminating health disparities in Black, indigenous and people of color (BIPOC) communities, launches with the UHR Holistic Health 100 list. The list of holistic health heroes was uniquely curated to recognize individuals who prompt innovative action, support and represent resilient holistic change in the lives of BIPOC.

«We decided to launch the UHR last spring upon hearing…

«We decided to launch the UHR last spring upon hearing about the impact of the racial health disparities amongst BIPOC, exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic,» states UHR Founder Robert Ingram. «Inspiring greater possibilities for BIPOC will be a strategic and collaborative effort of grass-roots level community, culture influencers, creators of clear pathways to healthcare careers and the continual engagement and accountability of congress and corporate entities. Anything less will render efforts for comprehensive and holistic change for BIPOC ineffective and anemic,» intones UHR Co-Founder, Kayla Ingram.

With this broadened perspective on holistic health and wellness by way of community, culture, corporate, careers and congress, individuals honored on this list challenge the world to reimagine BIPOC existence, holistically––body, mind and soul. Heading the list of honorees are President Joseph Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and select members of the White House Coronavirus Task Force. Also at the top is Johnson & Johnson Chairman, CEO, Alex Gorsky, Merck CEO, Kenneth Frazier and Walgreens CEO, Rosalind Brewer.

A sample of other notables on the list includes Michael Sneed, J&J, Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice, Morehouse School of Medicine, Dr. Makaya Douoguih, Janssen, Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick, Howard University School of Medicine, Vanessa Broadhurst, J&J, Dr. James E. K. Hiildreth, Meharry Medical College, Dr. David M. Carlisle, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Courtney Billington, Janssen Neuroscience, Thomas Harvey, AT&T, Keith Sanders, CDW, Lebron James, NBA Great, Joan Robinson Berry, The Boeing Company, Calvin Butler, Exelon and Staci Hargraves, Janssen R&D.

Visit urbanhealthreport.org for more information and UHR’s Holistic Health 100 list.

About UHR

The Urban Health Report (UHR) exists to eliminate health disparities in BIPOC communities by emboldening BIPOC and the entities that seek to serve them.

Contact:

Kayla Ingram
291840@email4pr.com
4104047895

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SOURCE The Urban Health Report

Investigation Finds Used Cars Are Routinely Sold with Known, Life-Threatening Safety Defects — Sen. Blumenthal Weighs In

WASHINGTON, Feb. 18, 2021 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Each year millions of used cars are sold with potentially deadly unaddressed safety recalls. The new owners of the affected vehicles often have no idea they are driving cars that could pose a danger, possibly a life-threatening one, to themselves, their passengers, and other drivers. Today, nonprofit Consumers’ Checkbook, in partnership with the Consumer Federation of America (CFA), is releasing the results of an investigation that exposes the breadth of the problem and the significant risk to Americans’ safety. The full report is available at Checkbook.org/recalls.

Between 2010 and 2018, automakers in the U.S. recalled 238 million cars and light trucks due to unsafe defects. As mandated by federal law, automobile manufacturers issue recalls to inform vehicle owners about often dangerous problems. Checkbook’s investigation revealed many cars deemed unsafe until repaired end up on used-car lots, where they’re resold by dealers that have not fixed the problems nor informed buyers about them.

Checkbook’s researchers selected 10 vehicle models manufactured between 2010 and 2019 with previously announced recalls: 2014-18 Chrysler 300; 2013-16 Dodge Dart; 2013-14 Ford Escape; 2011-16 Honda Accord; 2011-14 Hyundai Sonata; 2012-16 Kia Soul; 2016-17 Nissan Maxima; 2012-14 Subaru Impreza; 2011-19 Toyota Corolla; and 2011-18 Volvo S60. Researchers searched for these cars on six major used-car online marketplaces and identified 600 individual vehicles up for sale in seven major metro areas. Researchers then checked the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) database for unaddressed recalled safety defects for each.

Per the NHTSA’s database, Checkbook found 227 of the 600 automobiles—nearly 40 percent of them—had at least one unaddressed problem subject to a recall, almost all of them serious, such as engines that might stall, brakes that might fail, and seatbelts that might not operate properly in the event of a crash. Checkbook found one vehicle up for sale that had four unaddressed open recalls.

«It is unbelievable – and a surprise to most consumers – that dealerships routinely sell vehicles with open recalls, and in most cases it’s perfectly legal to do so,» said Kevin Brasler, executive editor of Consumers’ Checkbook. «What other industry gets a pass on knowingly selling defective dangerous products? A store would face massive fines and lawsuits if it knowingly sold contaminated meat or produce or filled prescriptions with medications after a pharmaceutical company warned that they might contain harmful contaminants. So why do we let used-car sellers get away with knowingly peddling dangerously defective vehicles? It’s unacceptable.»

Used-car dealers or anyone else can easily check a car for an unrepaired recalled defect simply by entering the vehicle’s 17-character VIN on the NHTSA website. Recalls can be addressed at no cost to vehicle owners.

«The automobile recall program is one of the government’s most important auto safety functions, but to be truly effective, car dealers should not be allowed to simply resell vehicles with known and correctable defects, said Jack Gillis, CFA’s executive director and author of The Car Book. «Simply put, profiting from the sale of any product with a known defect is unconscionable, and this investigation shows it is happening all the time.»

Advocates say what’s needed is a federal law requiring dealers to address recalled defects before selling, leasing, or loaning out a used vehicle. The Used Car Safety Recall Repair Act, introduced in the U.S. Senate by Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) would do just that.

«This investigation’s frightening findings show that urgent action is needed to ensure the safety of used cars,» Blumenthal said. «It is unacceptable that defective cars are regularly sold with known, potentially life-threatening safety issues to unsuspecting buyers. Congress must act to pass my bill – the Used Car Safety Recall Repair Act – and require auto-dealers to repair dangerous used cars. This is a common-sense measure to protect American consumers and our roads from unsafe cars.»

Among those that have opposed such legislation is the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA). Although NADA did not respond to repeated requests for an interview for the report, a statement posted on its website in September 2020 said such a law would «cripple the used vehicle market,» creating what amounts to a trade-in tax by devaluing used vehicles by an average of $1,210 to as much as $5,000, according to one study it cited. The statement said that while dealers support a «100% recall completion rate,» some recalls are too minor to justify federal legislation like Blumenthal’s.

Consumer advocates disagree. «I doubt many drivers would consider door latches that might fail, airbags that might not deploy, seat belts that might not work, engines and brakes that might fail, and other serious safety defects our investigation routinely revealed as ‘minor’ problems,» said Brasler. «While car dealers, manufacturers, and their trade associations insist they’re working hard to make their products are safe, they’re clearly not doing nearly enough to actually make them so.»

About Consumers’ Checkbook/Center for the Study of Services
Consumers’ Checkbook (Checkbook.org) is an independent, nonprofit consumer organization, founded in 1974. Its mission is to help consumers get high-quality services and products at the best possible prices. In addition to working on national projects, Checkbook publishes Consumers’ Checkbook magazine in print and online in the Washington, D.C., San Francisco Bay, Puget Sound, Twin Cities, Chicago, Boston, and Delaware Valley areas, with ratings of service providers ranging from plumbers to surgeons. Checkbook is fully funded through subscription and publication sales, fees for information services, and consumer donations, and does not accept advertising dollars or other support from businesses so there can be no question of bias.

About the Consumer Federation of America
The Consumer Federation of America is an association of more than 250 non-profit consumer groups that, since 1968, has sought to advance the consumer interest through research, education, and advocacy.

Media Contact

Jamie Lettis, jlettis@checkbook.org, +1 (202) 454-3006, jlettis@checkbook.org

SOURCE Consumers’ Checkbook

Investigation Finds Used Cars Are Routinely Sold with Known, Life-Threatening Safety Defects — Sen. Blumenthal Weighs In

Media Contact

Jamie Lettis, jlettis@checkbook.org, +1 (202) 454-3006, jlettis@checkbook.org

SOURCE Consumers’ Checkbook

AGS’ Starwall™ x Orion Immersive Video Canvas Surpasses 350 Games

LAS VEGAS, Feb. 18, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — AGS’ Starwall x Orion («Starwall«) immersive video canvas reached a milestone this month, surpassing 350 games at 55 casinos across North America, delivering an affordable, premium integrated merchandising solution and Starwall-specific game content for the Company’s high-performing Orion Portrait slot cabinet.

…

AGS started taking orders for the Starwall in the spring 2020, and despite the global pandemic, the product has consistently performed above expectations and has won two innovation awards – the Silver Medal for ‘Best Slot Product’ in the 2019 Gaming & Technology Awards, and the Gold Award in the ‘Top 20 Most Innovative Gaming Technology Awards 2020’.

AGS Senior Vice President of Sales Adam Whitehurst said, «The Starwall is an absolute showstopper, recognized by operators for its ability to activate just about any area of a casino floor with its vibrancy, its game synchronization, and its ability to deliver a theater-like experience to players. Whether it is installed in the middle of a casino or along a wall, the Starwall illuminates the casino floor.»

A first-of-its kind, the Starwall combines hundreds of direct-view LED tiles to create a seamless video backdrop measuring 8 ½-feet wide by 8 ½-feet deep. Fitting sleekly and securely with three-packs and six-packs of premium Orion Portrait games, the Starwall adds attraction through high-impact motion graphics and celebratory animations complementary to the game theme.

AGS launched the Starwall in Class III and Class II markets with its new 88 Tian Lun™ family – starting with Jade Wins Deluxe® and Golden Wins Deluxe®. The game titles offer the same proven player-favorite features that have made the classic Jade Wins® and Golden Wins® casino-floor top performers, while adding a thrilling bonus wheel.

And the Company is developing a robust library of follow-on Starwall titles, including new 88 Tian Lun titles Grand Ox Wins™ and Piggy Wins™, followed by Lucky Panda™ and Phoenix Magic™. Another new family, Golden Dragons™, will debut later this year, featuring AGS’ first player-selectable multi-denomination games.

Whitehurst said, «We are excited about the early Starwall performance and are confident that this is just the beginning of the potential for this product, with a strong lineup of new follow-on game titles and our development team’s focus on adding even more immersion and interaction with game-play from both a visual and audio perspective.»

About AGS
AGS is a global company focused on creating a diverse mix of entertaining gaming experiences for every kind of player. Our roots are firmly planted in the Class II Native American gaming market, but our customer-centric culture and growth have helped us branch out to become a leading all-inclusive commercial gaming supplier. Powered by high-performing Class II and Class III slot products, an expansive table products portfolio, highly rated social casino solutions for players and operators, and best-in-class service, we offer an unmatched value proposition for our casino partners. Learn more at www.playags.com.

Investor & Media Contacts:

Brad Boyer, Vice President of Investor Relations, Corporate Development & Strategy, AGS Bboyer@PlayAGS.com

Julia Boguslawski, Chief Marketing Officer and Executive Vice President of Investor Relations
Jboguslawski@PlayAGS.com

Laura Olson-Reyes, Vice President of Marketing & Corporate Communications
Lolson-reyes@PlayAGS.com

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SOURCE AGS

Dialight Debuts Lowest Profile High Output High Bay In Its Class

FARMINGDALE, N.J., Feb. 18, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Dialight (LSE: DIA.L), the global leader in hazardous and industrial LED lighting innovation, today announced the availability of its newest, lightest Low Profile Vigilant® LED High Output High Bay.

The new smaller, lighter form factor is contractor-friendly at just under 7 inches high and 48 pounds with a copper-free aluminium housing, dual powder coat finish, and a hook mounting option for ease of installation.

Ideal for mounting…

Ideal for mounting heights up to 100 feet, this fixture boasts up to 71,000 lumens of total output and is well suited for difficult to reach locations where access for routine maintenance is simply not possible.

Built to Dialight’s iconic performance and reliability standards, the Low Profile High Output High Bay also carries the company’s industry-leading 10-year warranty, an L-70 rating greater than 150,000 hours and DLC Premium 5.1 on most models. At up to 155 lumens per watt, the new fixture provides a more efficient and cost effective alternative to legacy lighting technology such as 1000 watt HID fixtures. The High Bay is also designed for optimum thermal management and has a wide operating temperature range of -40°F to +149°F (-40°C to +65°C)..

«Dialight is committed to safety and sustainability in industrial applications,» said Fariyal Khanbabi, Dialight Group Chief Executive. «We are proud that our latest Low Profile High Output High Bay continues our heritage of technology innovation to support reliable, energy efficient, and cost-effective lighting for the most difficult to reach applications.»

Additional standard features for the Low Profile Vigilant High Output High Bay include: 0-10V dimming and 6kV surge protection. The fixture is rated to IP 66 and 67, UL 1598A (wet locations), CSA C22.2 No. 250, and CE. Narrow and medium beam patterns, and glass, acrylic and polycarbonate lens options are available.

During these extraordinary times, industrial customers are prioritizing safety in their facilities and that includes upgrading lighting to improve visibility. Reduced staff on-site makes it easier to access lighting without significantly impacting production below.

To learn more about Dialight LED upgrades or the Low Profile Vigilant High Bay, visit: https://www.dialight.com

Press Contact:
Nicole Paleologus
nicolep@nextpr.com

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SOURCE Dialight

Castrol® Supports Roush Fenway Racing To Power First Carbon Neutral NASCAR Race Team

CONCORD, N.C., Feb. 18, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Roush Fenway Racing today announced that the team has become the first carbon neutral NASCAR race team, powered by its official sponsor Castrol. Throughout the 2021 NASCAR season, Castrol will power the Roush Fenway team by supporting Roush Fenway’s carbon reduction and offset programs across their operations both on and off the track.

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«As an organization, Roush Fenway has always been environmentally conscious,» said Roush Fenway President Steve Newmark. «Our hope with this program is to demonstrate that every business, small or large, and regardless of industry, can contribute to address global climate challenges. We hope to set an example and highlight that small steps by many can make a real difference.»

Roush Fenway has achieved carbon neutrality for the entire organization including operations, the two race teams and race cars for the period between 1 January 2020 and 31 December 2020, according to the PAS 2060 standard as verified by ERM CVS (independent 3^rd party).

The partnership between Roush Fenway and Castrol is designed to help the team better manage its greenhouse gas emissions by tracking, quantifying, and reducing those emissions, and offsetting the balance with high-quality carbon offsets.

«At Castrol, we believe that small steps together can make a difference,» said Castrol’s Vice President of Marketing Rayne Pacek. «We want to play our part and teaming up with Roush Fenway to achieve their carbon neutral ambitions is a notable milestone in the sport and another step in supporting our partners in their efforts to drive change.»

In addition to working with Roush Fenway, Castrol plans to drive change by expanding its carbon neutral product range, reducing the carbon used in its production, and offering a new and expanded range of services – all to give consumers and customers more lower carbon choices.

«It’s an honor to pave the way in the sport and bring awareness to the importance of reducing your carbon footprint,» said Roush Fenway Driver Ryan Newman. «Every business can make choices to help promote a more sustainable future and this program makes me proud to be part of a team that takes the initiative to drive change.»

As part of the program, Newman’s traditionally green and red Castrol No 6. Ford Mustang will don an all-white paint scheme featuring a grey Castrol badge and muted logos from partners like Ford Motor Company, Kohler Generators, Oscar Mayer, Coca-Cola, Guaranteed Rate, MacTools, and Wyndham Rewards to show their support of the initiative. This paint scheme will be used at the Daytona Road Course on Sunday, February 21, 2021.

The initiative is part of Castrol’s ongoing relationship with Roush Fenway and is another step towards supporting its partners in achieving their lower carbon ambitions. Consumers interested in learning more about Roush Fenway carbon neutral initiative powered by Castrol can visit Castrol.com/DrivingForChange. Visitors can also enter for a chance to win Ryan Newman race-used gear following the Daytona Road Race on February 21, 2021.

About Castrol
Castrol, a global leader in lubricant technology, serves consumers in over 140 countries. Our leadership brands include Castrol® GTX® — a premium conventional motor oil; Castrol® GTX® High–Mileage™ – a premium synthetic blend designed for vehicles with over 75,000 miles; the Castrol® EDGE ® line of advanced full-synthetic super premium motor oils that offer unsurpassed strength and performance; as well as our range of commercial transport lubricants. To find out more about Castrol products and programs, please call 1–888–CASTROL or visit www.castrol.com/us

About Roush Fenway Racing
Roush Fenway Racing is one of the most successful teams in NASCAR history, fielding multiple teams in NASCAR Cup Series. Set to begin its 34th season in 2021, Roush Fenway is a leader in driver development, having launched the careers for many of the top drivers in the sport. Off-track, Roush Fenway is a leader in NASCAR marketing solutions, having produced multiple award-winning Social Media, digital content and experiential marketing campaigns. Roush Fenway is co-owned by NASCAR Hall of Fame team owner Jack Roush and Fenway Sports Group, parent company of Major League Baseball’s Boston Red Sox and English Premier League’s Liverpool F.C. Visit RoushFenway.com, become a fan on Facebook and Instagram, and follow on Twitter at @roushfenway.

Contact: uspress@bp.com

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SOURCE Castrol