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Air Treatment Solution for Public Transit Approved by EPA to Provide Continuous Protection Against COVID-19

RAHWAY, NJ and PLANO, TX, Jan. 19, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved a Section 18 Public Health Emergency Exemption for the use of Grignard Pure™, an antimicrobial air treatment solution, for intrastate transit and transportation applications. Administered through Luminator Technology Group‘s (Luminator) Renew™ Air Treatment System, the solution provides continuous protection against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.

Grignard Pure is expected to kill 98% of SARS-CoV-2 virus particles in the air, where transmission is most likely.

The EPA’s Section 18 Emergency Exemption for Grignard Pure, which is effective for Georgia and Tennessee, applies to its use in approved indoor spaces (occupied and unoccupied) when adherence to current public health guidelines is impractical or difficult to maintain (e.g., CDC guidance at www.cdc.gov recommending social distancing, limited occupancy, and increased ventilation). Among the approved use sites are intrastate transportation as well as select approved health care and food processing facilities and indoor spaces within buildings—including government facilities—where people are conducting activity deemed essential by the state and allowed by the state lead agency. The EPA is expected to approve additional exemptions for more states in the coming weeks.

When deployed in mass transit environments, the system will help protect passengers, operators and other transit employees from the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19. Grignard Pure is dispensed on-board transit bus and rail vehicles through an adaptive system, manufactured by Luminator, a global leader in transit technology and communication solutions.

Grignard Pure is expected to kill 98% of SARS-CoV-2 virus particles in the air, where transmission is most likely. When in use, it delivers continuously effective protection of indoor occupied and unoccupied spaces, including transit buses and railcars.

«As public health officials work to recover national and local economies, public transportation continues to play a vital role,» said Etienne Grignard, co-founder and CEO of Grignard Pure. «The EPA approval of Grignard Pure allows entities in these states to deploy science-based technology solutions to enhance safety. Through this partnership with Luminator, it will help protect transit riders and operators.»

Luminator’s Renew Air Treatment System dispenses the antimicrobial air treatment through a connected, technologically advanced system that measures and automatically adjusts the amount of Grignard Pure that is dispensed. As conditions change with the opening of doors when passengers embark and disembark the vehicle, the system maintains an effective level to kill 98% of COVID-19 airborne virus particles.

«With the pandemic causing tremendous disruption to the public transportation industry, we are proud to help support its recovery with a combination of science and innovation,» said Kirk Goins, CEO of Luminator Technology Group. «In partnership with Grignard Pure, we are providing riders, transit employees, and operators the assurance they need to return to work and help passengers reach their destinations safely and efficiently. We expect the implementation of the Renew Air Treatment System will make a lasting impact on restoring ridership, safety, and confidence.»

«Those of us in public and environmental health have learned much about the properties and behaviors of the virus over the past nine months, as we continue to develop and recommend best practices for responding as a society,» said Dr. Jack Caravanos, clinical professor of environmental health sciences at New York University’s School of Public Health, and a member of the independent and uncompensated Grignard Pure Science Advisory Team. «I’ve worked closely with the Grignard Pure team since April to assure the effectiveness of the solution. Adding Grignard Pure to a safety protocol, including personal hygiene, masks and social distancing, is a critical step toward helping to restore the social, cultural and business norms we enjoyed pre-pandemic.»

For more information about Grignard Pure, including a full list of approved use sites and access to safety and efficacy reports, visit www.GrignardPure.com.

About Grignard Pure
Grignard Pure, LLC, founded in 2020, is based in New Jersey. It was, until recently, a subsidiary of Grignard Company, LLC, a manufacturer of atmospheric effect solutions founded in 1963. For more information, visit www.GrignardPure.com.

About Luminator Technology Group
Luminator Technology Group (Luminator) is a leading manufacturer of stationary and on-board passenger information systems, video security, air treatment and lighting solution for global mass transportation applications. The company, founded in 1928, leverages its extensive engineering resources to develop solutions that increase intelligence, safety and efficiency for bus, rail and aerospace operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.luminator.com.

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SOURCE Luminator Technology Group

Royal Caribbean Group Enters Definitive Agreement to Sell its Azamara Brand to Sycamore Partners

MIAMI, Jan. 19, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) today announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its Azamara brand to Sycamore Partners, a private equity firm specializing in consumer, retail and distribution investments, in an all-cash carve-out transaction for $201 million, subject to certain adjustments and closing conditions. Sycamore Partners will acquire the entire Azamara brand, including its three-ship…

Royal Caribbean Group noted the transaction allows it to focus on expanding its Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Silversea brands.

«Our strategy has evolved into placing more of our resources behind three global brands, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Silversea, and working to grow them as we emerge from this unprecedented period,» said Richard D. Fain, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Royal Caribbean Group. «Even so, Azamara remains a strong brand with its own tremendous potential for growth, and Sycamore’s track record demonstrates that they will be good stewards of what the Azamara team has built over the past 13 years.»

«We are pleased that Royal Caribbean Group has entrusted Sycamore to support Azamara in its next phase of growth,» said Stefan Kaluzny, Managing Director of Sycamore Partners. «We are excited to partner with the Azamara team and build on their many years of success serving the brand’s loyal customers. We believe Azamara will remain a top choice for discerning travelers as the cruising industry recovers over time.»

Azamara’s value proposition and operations will remain consistent under the new arrangement, and Royal Caribbean Group will work in close collaboration on a seamless transition for Azamara employees, customers and other stakeholders. In conjunction with the transaction, Azamara Chief Operating Officer Carol Cabezas has been appointed President of the brand.

The transaction will result in a one-time, non-cash impairment charge of approximately $170 million. The sale of Azamara is not expected to have a material impact on Royal Caribbean Group’s future financial results.

Perella Weinberg Partners LP served as financial advisor to Royal Caribbean Group and Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP provided legal counsel. Kirkland & Ellis LLP provided legal advice to Sycamore Partners.

About Royal Caribbean Group
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., doing business as Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL), is a cruise vacation company that owns four global brands: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Azamara and Silversea.  Royal Caribbean Group is also a 50% owner of a joint venture that operates TUI Cruises and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. Together, our brands operate 61 ships with an additional 15 on order as of December 21, 2021.  Learn more at www.rclcorporate.com or www.rclinvestor.com.

About Sycamore Partners
Sycamore Partners is a private equity firm based in New York. The firm specializes in consumer, distribution and retail-related investments and partners with management teams to improve the operating profitability and strategic value of their business. With approximately $10 billion in aggregate committed capital raised since its inception in 2011, Sycamore Partners’ investors include leading endowments, financial institutions, family offices, pension plans and sovereign wealth funds. For more information on Sycamore Partners, visit www.sycamorepartners.com.

Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this release relating to, among other things, our future performance estimates, forecasts and projections constitute forward-looking statements under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements include, but are not limited to: statements regarding revenues, costs and financial results for 2020 and beyond. Words such as «anticipate,» «believe,» «could,» «driving,» «estimate,» «expect,» «goal,» «intend,» «look into,» «may,» «plan,» «project,» «seek,» «should,» «will,» «would,» «considering», and similar expressions are intended to help identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements reflect management’s current expectations, are based on judgments, are inherently uncertain and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause our actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from the future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied in those forward-looking statements. Examples of these risks, uncertainties and other factors include, but are not limited to the following: the impact of the global incidence and spread of COVID-19, which has led to the temporary suspension of our operations and has had and will continue to have a material adverse impact on our business, liquidity and results of operations, or other contagious illnesses on economic conditions and the travel industry in general and the financial position and operating results of our Company in particular, such as: the current and potential additional governmental and self-imposed travel restrictions, the current and potential extension of the suspension of cruises and new additional suspensions, guest cancellations; our ability to obtain sufficient financing, capital or revenues to satisfy liquidity needs, capital expenditures, debt repayments and other financing needs; the effectiveness of the actions we have taken to improve and address our liquidity needs; the impact of the economic and geopolitical environment on key aspects of our business, such as the demand for cruises, passenger spending, and operating costs; incidents or adverse publicity concerning our ships, port facilities, land destinations and/or passengers or the cruise vacation industry in general; our ability to accurately estimate our monthly cash burn rate during the suspension of our operations; concerns over safety, health and security of guests and crew; any protocols we adopt across our fleet relating to COVID-19, such as those recommended by the Healthy Sail Panel, may be costly and less effective than we expect in reducing the risk of infection and spread of COVID-19 on our cruise ships; further impairments of our goodwill, long-lived assets, equity investments and notes receivable; an inability to source our crew or our provisions and supplies from certain places; the incurrence of COVID-19 and other contagious diseases on our ships and an increase in concern about the risk of illness on our ships or when traveling to or from our ships, all of which reduces demand; unavailability of ports of call; growing anti-tourism sentiments and environmental concerns; changes in US foreign travel policy; the uncertainties of conducting business internationally and expanding into new markets and new ventures; our ability to recruit, develop and retain high quality personnel; changes in operating and financing costs; our indebtedness, any additional indebtedness we may incur and restrictions in the agreements governing our indebtedness that limit our flexibility in operating our business, including the significant portion of assets that are collateral under these agreements; the impact of foreign currency exchange rates, interest rate and fuel price fluctuations; the settlement of conversions of our convertible notes, if any, in shares of our common stock or a combination of cash and shares of our common stock, which may result in substantial dilution for our existing shareholders; our expectation that we will not declare or pay dividends on our common stock for the near future; vacation industry competition and changes in industry capacity and overcapacity; the risks and costs associated with protecting our systems and maintaining integrity and security of our business information, as well as personal data of our guests, employees and others; the impact of new or changing legislation and regulations or governmental orders on our business; pending or threatened litigation, investigations and enforcement actions; the effects of weather, natural disasters and seasonality on our business; emergency ship repairs, including the related lost revenue; the impact of issues at shipyards, including ship delivery delays, ship cancellations or ship construction cost increases; shipyard unavailability; the unavailability or cost of air service; and uncertainties of a foreign legal system as we are not incorporated in the United States.

In addition, many of these risks and uncertainties are currently heightened by and will continue to be heightened by, or in the future may be heightened by, the COVID-19 pandemic. It is not possible to predict or identify all such risks.

More information about factors that could affect our operating results is included under the caption «Risk Factors» in our most recent quarterly report on Form 10-Q, as well as our other filings with the SEC, and the captions «Risk Factors» and «Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations» in our most recent annual report on Form 10-K, as updated by our Current Report on Form 8-K dated May 13, 2020, copies of which may be obtained by visiting our Investor Relations website at www.rclinvestor.com or the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements in this release, which are based on information available to us on the date hereof. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

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SOURCE Royal Caribbean Group

Choice Privileges Kicks Off New Year With New Bonus Points Promotion

ROCKVILLE, Md., Jan. 19, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Choice Privileges, the award-winning loyalty program from

ROCKVILLE, Md., Jan. 19, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Choice Privileges, the award-winning loyalty program from Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH), is kicking off the new year with the launch of a New Year, New Bonus promotion. Now through Feb. 28, Choice Privileges members who book and stay at participating Choice Hotels properties will earn twice the bonus points, up to 30,000.

«We’re starting the year off on a high note by offering our Choice Privileges members an opportunity to earn double the loyalty points through our New Year, New Bonus promotion. Travelers can use those extra points for free nights at Choice-branded hotels, an all-inclusive AMResorts^® vacation, gift cards to their favorite groceries, restaurants and retailers, and more,» said Jamie Russo, vice president, loyalty programs and customer engagement, Choice Hotels. «We’re focused on finding new ways to delight and thank guests for their loyalty, and these bonus points are just a small token of our appreciation for our more than 47 million loyalty members who continue to stay with us during these challenging times.»

To participate in the New Year, New Bonus promotion, guests can register at www.choicehotels.com/choice-privileges/promo/new-years-bonus-points, and book travel on ChoiceHotels.com, the Choice Hotels mobile app or by calling 800.4CHOICE.

Choice Privileges, named a top hotel loyalty program by both USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards and U.S. News & World Report, is making it easier than ever for loyalty members to achieve elite status this year after recently announcing a continuation of the new requirements to earn benefits faster. Updates include reducing the number of nights required to earn elite status and initiating extensions for current elite members.

Membership is free, offering fast rewards, including bonus points, airline miles, or credits for premium coffee and shared rides through the exclusive, personalized, Your Extras benefit. For more information or to enroll in Choice Privileges, visit www.choicehotels.com/choice-privileges.

Choice Hotels’ Commitment to Clean initiative and flexible cancellation policies are designed to help give guests added peace of mind when booking a Choice-branded hotel. 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.

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.

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SOURCE Choice Hotels International, Inc.

Discover the «Pura Vida» with Marriott Vacation Club’s First Resort in Costa Rica

ORLANDO, Fla., Jan. 19, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Marriott Vacation Club — a global industry leader in Vacation Ownership and brand of Marriott Vacations Worldwide (NYSE: VAC) — announced today that its Marriott Vacation Club at Los Sueños resort – located in the 1,110-acre master planned community of Los Sueños Resort and Marina in Costa Rica – is now open for Owners and guests to experience. Situated along Costa Rica’s Green Coast and nestled between Herradura Bay and the lush rainforest, this resort is the first in Central America for the Marriott Vacation Club brand. Marriott Vacation Club at Los Sueños is available for Owners through the Marriott Vacation Club Destinations Exchange Program as an exchange option and is also available for rental guests through MarriottVacationClub.com. Timeshare sales for Marriott Vacation Club at Los Sueños will be launched in the coming weeks.

«Our Owners and guests are excited to explore new destinations, and we are happy to offer them another new travel adventure with our first resort in Costa Rica,» said Brian Miller, president, vacation ownership for Marriott Vacations Worldwide. «Our Owners and guests can truly immerse themselves in the local culture, explore the unspoiled nature, and enjoy authentic dining all while making vacation memories with those who mean the most.»

«We are thrilled to partner with Marriott Vacations Worldwide on their first resort in Costa Rica and look forward to the opportunity of working together on other future projects,» said Oriol Gimenez, managing partner for CPG Hospitality. «The surrounding natural beauty and amenities, coupled with the services afforded at the adjacent Los Sueños Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort, are a testament to all the wonders that have made Costa Rica (and its people) one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world.»

The new resort offers 24 two-bedroom lock-off villas designed with vacationers in mind. The spacious villas allow families to spread out while on vacation with approximately 1,129 square feet of space in the two-bedroom villa, approximately 736 square feet of space in the one-bedroom villa or approximately 393 square feet in the studio. Villas blend indigenous Costa Rican accents and hues with natural finishes like reclaimed wood, pebbles, and ornate patterns that echo the lush natural landscape and local culture surrounding the resort. The local environment is brought indoors in open living room spaces, where custom designed laurel wood furniture is accented by local handmade macramé wall art. Each villa also includes a full kitchen equipped with a refrigerator, dishwasher, microwave, and cooktop — all perfect for cooking authentic local dishes. Lock-off villas feature a kitchenette with compact appliances as well. Tropical decor continues into the bedroom, where guests will find a stained wood headboard and a barn door ornamented with indigenous patterns to separate the living space. Extra-large picture windows seamlessly blend the natural scenery outside the villa along Costa Rica’s Green Coast.

Marriott Vacation Club at Los Sueños shares amenities and activities with the Los Sueños Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort, including an expansive free-form pool that winds through the resort, a sprawling beach, the Sibö Rainforest Spa & Retreat, illuminated tennis courts, mini golf, the Tortuga Kids Club, and five restaurants, including Hacienda Kitchen that showcases the traditional flavors of Costa Rica. Also located within the Los Sueños Resort and Marina is the La Iguana Golf Club, an 18-hole championship golf course nestled among the tropical landscape of the lush Green Coast and the blue waters of the Pacific Ocean. For Owners and guests who want to explore the welcoming local culture and shopping options, the Marina Village features a 200-slip marina, waterfront restaurants, shops, and services all within walking distance of Marriott Vacation Club at Los Sueños.

Costa Rica offers unforgettable adventures for Owners and guests to help them find their «Pura Vida.» Poised along a narrow strip of Pacific coastline, stretching from the mythic peaks of the Monteverde Cloud Forest in the north to the deep jungles of Manuel Antonio National Park in the south, the diversity of scenery within the Green Coast is staggering. Whether it’s exploring nearby Jaco — an energetic beach town known for its outstanding surfing, restaurants, bars, boutique shopping, and carefree vibe — or marveling in the natural beauty of Manuel Antonio National Park — with its beaches, casual forest trails, and dense rainforests — each family member will cherish the memories of this ideal vacation experience. Owners and guests who are up for a thrill can enjoy kayaking, hiking, zip lines, rafting, bird watching, horseback riding, and jungle night tours all nearby. And for those looking for the perfect catch, the inshore and offshore waters — within walking distance of the resort — feature some of the most renowned sport fishing in the world.

The resort was developed by a partnership of CPG Hospitality and Enjoy Group, two of the leading hospitality investment and management companies in the region, which also own the Los Sueños Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort.

About Marriott Vacation Club
Marriott Vacation Club is a global industry leader in vacation ownership with a diverse portfolio of over 60 resorts and more than 13,000 vacation villas throughout the U.S., Caribbean, Central America, Europe, Asia and Australia. Marriott Vacation Club’s point-based vacation ownership program provides Owners and their families with the flexibility to enjoy high-quality vacation experiences. Follow us on Twitter.com/MarriottVacClub and Facebook at Facebook.com/marriottvacationclub.

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SOURCE Marriott Vacation Club

Tint World® ranked a top franchise in Entrepreneur’s highly competitive 42nd annual Franchise 500®

BOCA RATON, Fla., Jan. 19, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Tint World® Automotive Styling Centers™, the leading international auto accessory and window tinting franchise, recently ranked in Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500®, the world’s first, best and most comprehensive franchise ranking. Placement in the Franchise 500® is a highly sought-after honor in the franchise industry making it one of the company’s most competitive rankings ever. Recognized as an invaluable resource for potential franchisees, the Franchise 500® ranks Tint World® as 290th for its outstanding performance in areas including unit growth, financial strength and stability, and brand power.

«2020 was a challenging year for everyone, but it was also a year of unusual opportunity,» says Jason Feifer, Entrepreneur editor-in-chief. «Franchises were able to be nimble and innovative, serving the needs of franchisees and customers in ways that will resonate for many years to come. We believe that, when we eventually look back on this time, we’ll see it as a moment when many brands defined themselves for the future.»

In Entrepreneur’s continuing effort to best understand and evaluate the ever-changing franchise marketplace, the company’s 42-year-old ranking formula continues to evolve as well. The key factors that go into the evaluation include costs and fees, size and growth, support, brand strength, and financial strength and stability. Each franchise is given a cumulative score based on an analysis of more than 150 data points, and the 500 franchises with the highest cumulative scores become the Franchise 500® in ranking order.

«This ranking reflects the commitment of everyone in the Tint World® family,» said Charles J. Bonfiglio, CEO of Tint World®. «The Entrepreneur Franchise 500® is the gold standard for franchises, and appearing on the list for seven years in a row affirms that what we’re doing works. And even though we’re taking time to celebrate this honor, we won’t lose sight of our goals for 2021.»

Over its 42 years in existence, the Franchise 500® has become both a dominant competitive measure for franchisors and a primary research tool for potential franchisees. Tint World®’s position on the ranking is a testament to its strength as a franchise opportunity.

To view Tint World® in the full ranking, visit www.entrepreneur.com/franchise500. Results can also be seen in the January/February 2021 issue of Entrepreneur, available on newsstands January 26th.

About Tint World®

Founded in 1982, Tint World® Automotive Styling Centers™ is America’s largest and fastest growing automotive accessories and window tinting international franchise, specializing in car and truck accessories, mobile electronics, audio video equipment, security systems, detailing services, nano ceramic coatings, custom wheel and tire packages, maintenance, and repair services.

Tint World® services include residential, commercial, and marine window tinting films, solar films, decorative films, safety, and security films. Tint World® has locations in the United States, Canada, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, with master franchise opportunities available worldwide. To find out more, please visit www.TintWorld.com or www.TintWorldFranchise.com.

Tint World® Contact:
Charles J. Bonfiglio, CEO
888-944-8468
info@tintworld.com

MEDIA CONTACT:
Heather Ripley
Ripley PR
865-977-1973
hripley@ripleypr.com

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SOURCE Tint World

SellMyTimeshareNow.com’s Timeshare Resale and Rental Marketplace Produces Strong Performance In 2020

ORLANDO, Fla., Jan. 19, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — SellMyTimeshareNow.com («SMTN» or the «Company»), the world’s most active online marketplace for timeshares for sale and for rent by owner, celebrates the strength of its timeshare resale and rental platform in the midst of a challenging year for the travel industry. In 2020, the Company drove more than 3.4 million visits to its family of websites, resulting in over 36,700 offers—totaling more than $170 million—to buy or rent timeshares on SellMyTimeshareNow.com. The Company has delivered nearly double the purchase and rental offer value of its next closest competitor’s published offers over the past two years and more than $4.8 billion in offers to buy or rent timeshares advertised on its platform since it was founded in 2003.

SMTN has produced more than $4.8 billion in offers to buy or rent timeshares advertised on its platform since 2003.

«Last year showed us the resiliency of the timeshare resale market, of our customers, and of the vacation ownership product as a whole,» said Chad Newbold, CEO of SMTN and its parent company, Vacation Innovations. «Timeshare owners need a viable solution to help them transition out of their ownership when the time is right, or to offset the costs of ownership through rental, and we’re proud to offer an advertising and marketing platform specifically designed to help them do that.»

SMTN added nearly 10,000 new subscribers to its platform and completed nearly 9,000 timeshare sales over the past 12 months and expects this momentum to continue in 2021. To help drive interest during a decline in travel spending across the industry, the Company leveraged its expertise in advanced digital marketing strategies to connect with buyers planning for future vacations and emphasized reengagement with previous buyers and renters. The Company also added staff across all departments to further support the brand’s growth.

Focusing on adding more value and utility for subscribers, the Company launched SMTN Loyalty, a new members-only travel portal that provides subscribers ongoing access to below-OTA rates on travel including timeshare resort weeks, hotels, cruises, airfare, car rentals, and more, even after the subscriber’s timeshare sells. Looking to 2021, the Company will include SMTN Loyalty as a free benefit to all owner subscribers, and offer a complimentary week-long stay in Mexico, providing subscribers up to 12 months to redeem and travel.

Beyond resale, in 2020 SellMyTimeshareNow.com launched the world’s largest point-and-click timeshare rental platform, featuring the most inventory and the only 100-percent reservation guarantee in the industry. With thousands of verified rentals at resorts around the world—more than four times most competitors—each booking is truly instant. Rather than waiting for a timeshare owner to confirm their reservation, travelers who book through SMTN receive instant confirmation of their rental booking. The Company has been the leader in timeshare rental for more than a decade and is focused on further expanding its resort rental offerings through strategic partnerships and acquisitions.

«For anyone looking to experience the benefits of a timeshare resort vacation, rental is a great way to test out this style of travel. We’ve found that many customers use our rental platform to explore what vacation ownership has to offer before considering a purchase,» Newbold added. «Timeshare resorts have always been desirable, both to renters and buyers, for their spectacular amenities, in-unit kitchens, and generally larger accommodations. Providing ample opportunity for social distancing, and coupled with increased cleanliness protocols, these resorts are well-equipped to provide a safe and enjoyable stay.»

The timeshare industry is operating in a unique environment, with major developers reporting marked increases in sales for Q3 2020 as they recovered from a standstill in Q2. With the recent rollout of several new vaccines for COVID-19, as well as the resiliency of drive-to markets such as Orlando and Las Vegas, the recovery for the timeshare industry is underway.

Looking ahead to 2021, the Company shares the optimism of major timeshare developers that the travel sector will steadily return to normal, and that traveler activity, including among individuals looking to rent, buy, and sell timeshare on the secondary market, will continue to rise.

About SellMyTimeshareNow.com
Founded in 2003, SellMyTimeshareNow.com (sellmytimesharenow.com) is the world’s most active online marketplace for the purchase and rental of timeshare interests. A subsidiary of Vacation Innovations, SellMyTimeshareNow.com leverages advanced search engine optimization and other digital marketing strategies to maintain its position as a top-ranking global marketplace for timeshare resales and rentals, attracting over 2.8 million visits and over $219 million in purchase and rental offers to advertisers annually.

About Vacation Innovations

Founded in 1999, Vacation Innovations (vacationinnovations.com) is a leading provider of travel-related products, software and services. Leveraging advanced digital marketing strategies, sophisticated software solutions and decades of experience in vacation ownership, VI brings new vacation opportunities to a diverse audience of novice and seasoned travelers alike. The Vacation Innovations family of brands offers a wide range of travel services, including simplified resort rentals, online advertising and marketing products for by-owner timeshare sales and rentals, licensed timeshare brokerage and title transfer services, and customized owner services and product solutions for timeshare resorts, resort developers, HOAs and timeshare management companies.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Alex Glover, Director of Communications
alex.glover@sellmytimesharenow.com
407-205-0120

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SOURCE SellMyTimeshareNow.com

United Breast Cancer Foundation Shares PSA to Spread the Love and Drive Out Breast Cancer

HUNTINGTON, N.Y., Jan. 19, 2021 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — United Breast Cancer Foundation (UBCF), a GuideStar Platinum rated charity, launched the Public Service Announcement, «<a target="_blank"…

HUNTINGTON, N.Y., Jan. 19, 2021 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — United Breast Cancer Foundation (UBCF), a GuideStar Platinum rated charity, launched the Public Service Announcement, «Spread the Love and Drive Out Breast Cancer» with a Call to Action requesting vehicle donations to support breast cancer patients and families. UBCF’s PSA is visible on a prominent full HD screen billboard in the heart of New York City’s Times Square.

It’s the start of a brand new year, and many have a list of resolutions that they would like to accomplish in 2021. Donating an unwanted car, truck, boat, or other vehicle can help clear up a yard or driveway to make space for new things to come. Not only will this save on insurance and maintenance costs, it can check off more than a few things on a resolution list!

Donated vehicles to UBCF can transform lives!
By donating a vehicle to UBCF, you’re helping sustain UBCF’s mission to make a positive difference in the lives of those affected by breast cancer. Proceeds from the sale of donated vehicles fund innovative breast cancer education, screening, treatment and support services nationwide. To give, simply complete the vehicle donation form or call 1-888-332-0833 to set-up your tax-deductible donation and #DriveOutBreastCancer.

«I would like to personally thank UBCF for sending our family a gift card for Christmas! it was a totally unexpected surprise. We couldn’t be more grateful! You all have been such a blessing to us. I hope all the staff at UBCF had a great holiday season and have a very Happy New Year!» – Micky S

Executive Director Stephanie Mastroianni shared, «Vehicle donations are vital to funding our programs. While you are working on your 2021 resolutions, UBCF’s continuing resolution is to ease the burden of cancer patients and their families in 2021 and beyond. Please visit ubcf.org today and set-up your car donation. It’s safe, easy, and convenient and safe. And your gift is tax-deductible!» Mastroianni continued, «Thank you for thinking of UBCF and the thousands of breast cancer patients and survivors we help each and every year. We couldn’t do it without your support.»

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among women aged 40-50 years in the U.S. Per the National Cancer Institute (NCI), over 40,000 women and men will lose their lives to this deadly disease each year. Early detection of breast cancer helps save lives. UBCF encourages women and men to learn the self breast exam, available at no cost here. Please visit ubcf.org for more information.

About UBCF
UBCF is committed to offering breast health and wellness services focused on cancer prevention, screening, treatment and overall wellness. UBCF’s mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of those affected by breast cancer and does so through seven life-supporting patient and family programs available to women, men and families nation-wide. UBCF never denies services to anyone regardless of age, race, gender, ethnicity, income or medical insurance coverage. Tax-deductible contributions may be made towards UBCF’s programs. UBCF accepts Donor Advised Fund contributions and vehicle donations as well. Combined Federal Campaign #77934. https://www.ubcf.org

Media Contact

Beth Reichart, UBCF, 877-822-4287, beth@ubcf.org

Twitter, Facebook

SOURCE UBCF

Athletic Republic Coming to Boca Raton

PARK CITY, Utah, Jan. 19, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Athletes in Boca Raton and surrounding communities will soon have access to science-based training proven to increase speed, power, agility, and stamina. Athletic Republic, the leading sports performance training franchise, is opening in Boca Raton in early spring of 2021 to give athletes of all ages a better way to train and achieve their athletic goals.

The new facility will…

The new facility will draw on Athletic Republic’s three decades of experience in sports performance training. Scholastic athletes can prepare for their next competitive season with Acceleration Training, which can be tailored to meet the needs of specific sports. Adults can take advantage of the AR-FIT program to stay in shape, get stronger, and move better; older clients can stay vital and active with classes designed to build strength, stability, and balance.

Athletic Republic Boca Raton will be located at 3013 W. Yamato Road Suite B-14 in the Woodfield Plaza. The 5000-square foot facility will feature specialized equipment, a roomy turf area, and a juice bar. The small-group classes will be run by certified trainers who implement training programs designed to address the specific needs of individual athletes; local coaches can also take advantage of team training programs. The facility is convenient to a number of schools in the area.

Athletic Republic Boca Raton is owned and operated by Jeff and Julie Cohen, who have a combined 30 years of experience as small business owners in the area, including in sporting goods. Through their experience raising highly successful hockey and lacrosse athletes, they saw first-hand the value of proper training and the impact it has on sports performance. It inspired them to dedicate themselves to helping athletes of all ages meet and exceed their fitness and training goals.

«As parents, we obtained a unique view to understanding the needs of young student athletes looking to build a foundation in their sport,» according to the Cohens. «We are looking forward to further serving the needs of the Boca Raton and Delray beach communities by creating a safe but challenging environment for athletes to perform at their best.»

For more information, please visit https://bocaraton.athleticrepublic.com.

About Athletic Republic
Athletic Republic is the leading sports performance training franchisor. It is the premier destination for individualized, sport-specific training for athletes of all ages and abilities. For information, visit www.athleticrepublic.com.

Media Contact:
Julie Cohen
(561) 866-4019
289478@email4pr.com

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SOURCE Athletic Republic

FASTSIGNS® Ranked #1 In Category on Annual Entrepreneur Franchise 500 List for Fifth Consecutive Year

CARROLLTON, Texas, Jan. 19, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — FASTSIGNS International, Inc., franchisor of FASTSIGNS^®, the leading sign, graphics and visual communications franchise, announced today it has been ranked the #1 franchise opportunity in its category in Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500^® for the fifth consecutive year. Recognized as an invaluable resource for potential franchisees, the Franchise 500^® ranks FASTSIGNS as #44 overall — the only sign, graphics, and visual communications franchise to be recognized in the top 100 — for its outstanding performance in areas including unit growth, financial strength and stability, and brand power.

«We are incredibly proud to once again be the #1 franchise opportunity in the sign, graphics, and visual communications sector. After such an unprecedented year with so much uncertainty, our business model continued to show its resiliency and FASTSIGNS emerged strong and poised for growth in 2021,» said Mark Jameson, Chief Support and Development Officer, FASTSIGNS International, Inc. «This recognition is proof of our outstanding international network of franchisees and their commitment to serving their communities as well as our exceptional franchise support team that worked around the clock to help the system succeed.»

Fastsigns Holdings Inc., parent company of FASTSIGNS, reported a strong year of growth amid the pandemic, most notably making its first acquisition with the addition of NerdsToGo, an emerging IT services brand, to its portfolio. Additionally, FASTSIGNS signed 31 franchise agreements to develop new, co-branded, and conversion centers worldwide and the opening of 30 locations, including the brand’s first center in the Dominican Republic. Much of FASTSIGNS’ success in 2020 can be credited to centers being deemed essential businesses, allowing franchisees to pivot their services to focus on what matters most — serving their customers.

This year, Fastsigns Holdings Inc. aims to sell 30 NerdsToGo franchises nationwide as part of its plans to grow the brand’s presence in new and existing markets. FASTSIGNS is aiming to sign at least 35 franchise agreements across the U.S. in markets such as Southern California, the Midwest, New England, and along the Northeast Corridor. FASTSIGNS is particularly focusing on its co-brand and conversion programs, which helps existing business owners add a FASTSIGNS to their store or fully convert their business to a FASTSIGNS franchise. FASTSIGNS has helped countless owners of print shops, photography studios, camera stores, embroidery shops, and more, diversify their product lines and services to meet the growing demand for signs, graphics, and visual communications. Both the co-brand franchise opportunity and conversion can be started with only $15,000 down on the initial franchise fee.

«I spent over 30 years as the owner of an independent sign shop before converting my business into a FASTSIGNS franchise in 2016,» said Jeffrey Chudoff, a FASTSIGNS franchisee in Maple Shade, New Jersey. «I could not imagine what it would have been like to operate during the pandemic without the support of FASTSIGNS and our network of franchisees. While so many small businesses struggled or closed their doors permanently, we exceeded $1 million in revenue for the first time. I was truly in business for myself, but not by myself.»

FASTSIGNS is known in the industry for equipping its franchisees with tools vital to securing the ongoing success of each individual location. In addition to the brand’s online FASTSIGNS University, FASTSIGNS partners with 1HUDDLE, a workforce-training platform that converts unique training content into science-backed, quick-burst training games that are proven to accelerate workforce productivity.

FASTSIGNS also offers a special incentive for first responders, including paramedics, emergency medical technicians, police officers, sheriffs, and firefighters, which includes a 50% reduction on the franchise fee — a savings of $24,875.

FASTSIGNS is consistently ranked as a top franchise opportunity. In 2020, Entrepreneur magazine named FASTSIGNS a Top Growth Franchise and one of the Top Franchises for Veterans. Additionally, FASTSIGNS was ranked on Franchise Times’ annual Top 200+ list, Franchise Gator recognized the brand as one of its Top 100 Franchises of 2020, Franchise Direct named FASTSIGNS one of the Top 100 Global Franchises, and Franchise Business Review named FASTSIGNS one of its Top Franchises for Second Careers and Top Franchises for Veterans. In 2019, the brand was named to America’s Best Franchises to Buy list by Forbes magazine. Franchise Business Review has also recognized FASTSIGNS as one of the «Best of the Best» for franchisee satisfaction for the last 10 years, as well as one of its Top 50 Franchises for Women and Top Service Franchises lists in 2019. FASTSIGNS has also received the Canadian Franchise Association Franchisees’ Choice for eight consecutive years.

For information about the FASTSIGNS franchise opportunity, contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@fastsigns.com or 214-346-5679).

About FASTSIGNS^®FASTSIGNS International, Inc. is the leading sign and visual communications franchisor in North America, and is the worldwide franchisor of more than 740 independently owned and operated FASTSIGNS® centers in 8 countries including the United States and Puerto Rico, the United Kingdom, Canada, Chile, Grand Cayman, the United Arab Emirates, Malta and Australia (where centers operate as SIGNWAVE®). FASTSIGNS locations provide comprehensive signage and graphic solutions to help companies of all sizes and across all industries attract more attention, communicate their message, promote their products, help visitors find their way and extend their branding across all of their customer touchpoints.

In 2020, Fastsigns Holdings Inc. acquired GTN CAPITAL GROUP, LLC the parent company of NerdsToGo, an emerging IT services franchise brand. Learn more about sign and graphic solutions or find a location at fastsigns.com. Follow the brand on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/fastsigns, Twitter @FASTSIGNS or Facebook at facebook.com/FASTSIGNS. For information about the FASTSIGNS franchise opportunity, contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@fastsigns.com or call 214.346.5679).

Contact:
Chelsea Bear
Fish Consulting
954-893-9150
cbear@fish-consulting.com

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SOURCE FASTSIGNS International, Inc.

New Heart Disease Book, ‘Life 2.0’ by Kevin Kirksey Offers Inspiration for Better Living

DALLAS, Jan. 19, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Life 2.0: A Journey from Near Death to New Life by Kevin Kirksey shares the emotional story of Kirksey’s near-death experience, having had no prior signs, symptoms, or warnings of being in trouble, and the lessons he learned upon his survival. Life 2.0 aims to save and extend others’ lives while providing individuals with a new perspective on life and a deeper appreciation of the little things that can profoundly change the course of one’s life.

After asking his doctor a simple question, which later proves to save Kirksey’s life, he takes a simple test which showed that he was at extremely high risk of a near term highly probable fatal cardiac event or stroke. Kevin Kirksey immediately came face to face with his mortality, accepting the reality that severe cardiac disease threatened to take his life in the immediate short term. Following open-heart surgery, due to his observations of many little things that were done for him, he began down a road of profound physical, emotional, and spiritual transformation. Life 2.0: A Journey from Near Death to New Life follows Kirksey’s experiences during this trying time, encouraging motivated individuals to examine their own lives as well.

Life 2.0 examines Kirksey’s journey through recovery and beyond, touching on how caregivers’ selflessness inspired him to consider living a different life, one he never imagined possible. Through this candid, heartwarming story, Life 2.0: A Journey from Near Death to New Life will serve as an inspiration for healthcare workers, patients, and their families, as well as anyone who has found themselves amid a life-changing experience. Kevin Kirksey hopes that his story will remind men and women of the virtues in life that truly make it worth living.

Praise for Kevin Kirksey and «Life 2.0 – A Journey From Near Death to New Life»

«Life 2.0 is an incredible account of one man’s stark recognition of his mortality and the beautiful path to health and the new life he experiences. Not since Steven Levine’s «A Year to Live» have I read a more moving account of how a brush with death can be a lesson to live more fully. Kevin shows us the preciousness of life that we sometimes take for granted and how to continue this amazing journey of life with a newfound faith and love for those we encounter.»

— Michael Conley, San Francisco, California

«Life 2.0 is a call to move forward with our lives, bringing the best of our past with hope for the future and humanity. Mr. Kirksey came to his Life 2.0 through a life-altering illness and long rehabilitation. Still, he notes that all of us can access Life 2,0 by examining our hearts and asking ourselves those all-important questions regarding our purpose on Earth and what matters most. It is an important work that challenges the reader to live a richer, more meaningful life.»

— Dr. Kimberly Townsend, Syracuse, NY

«Kevin’s story is a true inspiration and brought me to tears at points. What he’s gone through some would call luck, others would call a miracle. Regardless of what you would call it one thing is certain: it’s a pretty incredible story. When it’s all over, if you’re anything like me, you’ll be rethinking your health and planning your own v.2.0.»

— Tim Bryant, Eaton Rapids, Michigan

If you would like more information about this topic or schedule an interview with Kevin Kirksey, please call Kevin Kirksey at 972.400.2186.

About Kevin Kirksey:
Kevin Kirksey has lived and documented his story of profound transformation to living Life 2.0. His journey, including the unusual set of circumstances that led to his extended and enhanced life, has been shared with many through writing, speaking, print media, internet, and television. Kevin works with healthcare organizations, Medical Schools, and the American Heart Association to raise awareness of cardiac disease so that lives can be saved, restored, extended, and enhanced. Kevin and his family reside in Dallas, TX. To learn more about Kevin, his book, his speaking, and what others say about his journey, visit (www.kevinkirkseyauthor.com)

More About This Title:
Life 2.0: A Journey from Near Death to New Life by Kevin Kirksey, also appearing in Publisher’s Weekly Hot Releases – December 2020, will be released by Morgan James Publishing on January 19, 2021. Life 2.0—ISBN 9781631950469—has 238 pages and is being sold as a trade paperback for $16.95. To order from Amazon use https://amzn.to/3hv89tL

About Morgan James Publishing:
Morgan James publishes trade quality titles designed to educate, encourage, inspire, or entertain readers with current, consistent, relevant topics that are available everywhere books are sold. (www.MorganJamesPublishing.com)

MEDIA CONTACT:
Kevin Kirksey
972.400.2186
289463@email4pr.com

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SOURCE Kevin Kirksey