InventHelp Inventors Develop Automotive Monitoring System for Determining Fault (LAX-1215)

PITTSBURGH, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — «We wanted to create a system to help law enforcement officers and vehicle owners determine who is responsible for accidents and vehicle-related crimes,» said one of two inventors, from Sherman Oaks, Calif., «so we invented the SKY HAWK DEVELOPMENT. Our design increases accountability and it could help to promote good driving habits.»

PITTSBURGH, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — «We wanted to create a system to help law enforcement officers and vehicle owners determine who is responsible for accidents and vehicle-related crimes,» said one of two inventors, from Sherman Oaks, Calif., «so we invented the SKY HAWK DEVELOPMENT. Our design increases accountability and it could help to promote good driving habits.»

The patent pending invention provides an improved way to determine fault of vehicle accidents, crimes and other incidences. In doing so, it helps to prevent disputes and confusion. It also increases accuracy and it provides added safety and peace of mind. The invention features an effective design that is convenient and easy to use so it is ideal for government agencies, vehicle owners and manufacturers. Additionally, it is producible in design variations and a prototype model is available upon request.

The original design was submitted to the Los Angeles sales office of InventHelp. It is currently available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers. For more information, write Dept. 19-LAX-1215, InventHelp, 217 Ninth Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, or call (412) 288-1300 ext. 1368. Learn more about InventHelp’s Invention Submission Services at http://www.InventHelp.com.

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SOURCE InventHelp

Give the Gift of Prevention: Keep Kids Away from Lottery Play

SANFORD, Fla., Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Today, the Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling (FCCG) is joining the National Holiday Lottery Responsible Gambling Campaign to raise awareness about the risks of gifting lottery tickets to minors during the holidays and to encourage parents and others to choose safer gifts.

According to Jennifer Kruse, FCCG’s Executive Director, «Unfortunately, the myth persists that gifting lottery tickets to children for the…

SANFORD, Fla., Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Today, the Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling (FCCG) is joining the National Holiday Lottery Responsible Gambling Campaign to raise awareness about the risks of gifting lottery tickets to minors during the holidays and to encourage parents and others to choose safer gifts.

According to Jennifer Kruse, FCCG’s Executive Director, «Unfortunately, the myth persists that gifting lottery tickets to children for the holidays carries no risks. There is a reason that gambling is strictly prohibited for those under the age of 18 in the Sunshine State. Research shows us that receipt of lottery tickets as gifts during childhood is correlated with risky, problematic gambling behavior later in life.»[1]

Stressors brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, which impact youth through school closures and restricted social activities, must also be considered as risk factors for the development of a gambling problem and warrant a heightened awareness for parents and caregivers about limiting exposure to gambling concepts before the legal age. In addition, many adults are not aware of the new ways that gambling opportunities are being integrated into online formats, such as through video games and mobile apps with shaky or no age verification. Data collected on the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine over the past year showed that an astounding 27% of lottery gamblers seeking help reported that they first gambled before the age of 21, and that 40% of all problem gamblers contacting the HelpLine started gambling before age 26.

«Taking the time to instead choose a gift that will inspire a new hobby or passion for the youngster in your life can help fight this troubling trend and leave a more lasting impact,» continued Kruse. It’s important to know that help and hope for anyone affected by problem gambling, including concerned loved ones, is available 24/7 through the confidential and multilingual 888-ADMIT-IT Problem Gambling HelpLine. «Like drugs and alcohol, gambling is off limits for minors and needs to be treated as such without exception to avoid the normalization of an illegal behavior and to support the prevention of problem gambling,» concluded Kruse.

The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling, Inc. (FCCG) is a not-for-profit corporation under contract with Florida State government, serving as the designated state affiliate of the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG). In addition to operating the 24-hour Problem Gambling HelpLine (888-ADMIT-IT), the FCCG increases awareness of problem gambling through education and outreach efforts throughout the state of Florida, advocates on behalf of the public regarding issues relating to problem gambling, and provides programs, resources, and other population specific supports to those in need of assistance. For more information, please visit gamblinghelp.org.

[1] Kundu, Priya V eta l. «Gambling-Related Attitudes and Behaviors in Adolescents Having Received Instant (Scratch) Lottery Tickets as Gifts» Journal of Adolescent Health: Official publication of the Society for Adolescent Medicine vol. 52, 4 (2013): 456-64.

Media Contact

Jennifer Kruse, The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling, Inc., +1 (407) 865-6200, fccg@gamblinghelp.org

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SOURCE The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling, Inc.

SeaWorld, Pacific Marine Mammal Center, and University of Florida Establish Health Markers for Dolphins to Support the Health of the Species around the World

SAN DIEGO, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Following SeaWorld’s 2019 publication of a foundational study that created first-ever standards for assessing the health of killer whales, this same team of veterinarians from SeaWorld, the Pacific Marine Mammal Center, and the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine has published a similar study about dolphin health in

SAN DIEGO, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Following SeaWorld’s 2019 publication of a foundational study that created first-ever standards for assessing the health of killer whales, this same team of veterinarians from SeaWorld, the Pacific Marine Mammal Center, and the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine has published a similar study about dolphin health in Veterinary Quarterly. Using data from 1,426 blood samples collected as part of SeaWorld’s routine preventative medicine program from 156 healthy bottlenose dolphins at SeaWorld Orlando, San Antonio, and San Diego parks, experts were able to define health benchmarks that can be used by other veterinarians and conservation biologists to help improve the diagnosis of health, disease, and stressors of wild dolphin populations.

Bottlenose dolphins in the United States are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act because they are vulnerable to many threats. These can include disease, biotoxin, pollution, habitat alteration, interactions with commercial and recreational fishing, energy exploration and oil spills, and other types of human disturbance (such as underwater noise).

«It is very difficult to assess the health of a wildlife species, to in turn be able to help them, because they are typically very challenging to access and their individual histories are largely unknown,» said Dr. Hendrik Nollens, Pacific Marine Mammal Center’s Vice President of Conservation Medicine and Science and study lead author. «Our study not only reports on what normal looks like in a large population of healthy dolphins with a known medical history, but we also compare what normal looks like across several populations of dolphins, both in human care and in the wild. SeaWorld has uniquely equipped, on-site veterinary diagnostic laboratories that generate high quality health data that can be shared with the scientific community.»

Similar to the earlier report on standards for assessing health in killer whales, the ability to collect blood-based health data of dolphins in a reliable, controlled manner provides a unique opportunity for scientists to understand the species’ physiology. The results of managed population studies are also very valuable because veterinarians can conduct longer-term follow-up of those same dolphins to track their known age, health, reproductive and nutritional statuses. Not only are dolphins able to participate in such studies as part of their routine preventative medical care at SeaWorld, they are trained to participate in their health care such as presenting the underside of their tail – or fluke – so a veterinary professional can draw a blood sample.

«We had the opportunity to work closely with one of our former undergraduate students on this research study,» said Dr. Nicole Stacy, Clinical Assistant Professor of Aquatic, Amphibian and Reptile Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida. «The dataset was very unique given the number of animals in the study and their broad age range, which in turn provides many applications for the results to benefit cetacean research and conservation.»

«Similar to how your primary care doctor checks your weight, blood pressure and overall health and compares the results against a benchmark for human health, this research provides the same benefit to the dolphin population,» said Dr. Todd Robeck, SeaWorld Vice President of Conservation Research and study author. «We need to find ways to take better care of the animals in our oceans through research, rescue, animal care and conservation efforts, and my research partners and I are happy to share the results of this study with other scientists and animal welfare experts around the world to help do this.»

About SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc.

SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: SEAS) is a leading theme park and entertainment company providing experiences that matter, and inspiring guests to protect animals and the wild wonders of our world. The Company is one of the world’s foremost zoological organizations and a global leader in animal welfare, training, husbandry and veterinary care. The Company collectively cares for one of the largest zoological collections in the world and has helped lead advances in the care of animals. The Company also rescues and rehabilitates marine and terrestrial animals that are ill, injured, orphaned or abandoned, with the goal of returning them to the wild. The SeaWorld® rescue team has helped more than 36,000 animals in need over the Company’s history.  SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. owns or licenses a portfolio of recognized brands including SeaWorld®, Busch Gardens®, Aquatica®, Sesame Place® and Sea Rescue®. Over its more than 60-year history, the Company has built a diversified portfolio of 12 destination and regional theme parks that are grouped in key markets across the United States, many of which showcase its one-of-a-kind zoological collection. The Company’s theme parks feature a diverse array of rides, shows and other attractions with broad demographic appeal which deliver memorable experiences and a strong value proposition for its guests.

Copies of this and other news releases as well as additional information about SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. can be obtained online at www.seaworldentertainment.com. Shareholders and prospective investors can also register to automatically receive the Company’s press releases, SEC filings and other notices by e-mail by registering at that website.

About Pacific Marine Mammal Center

The Pacific Marine Mammal Center rescues, rehabilitates and releases marine mammals and inspires ocean stewardship through research, education and collaboration. PMMC is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization. Our Tax-ID number is: 95-3680896

20612 Laguna Canyon Road | Laguna Beach, California, 92651 | (949) 494-3050

About the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine

The University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, the state’s only veterinary college, is supported through funding from UF Health and the UF Institute of Food of Agricultural Sciences, (UF-IFAS). The college’s Aquatic Animal Health program focuses on the health of marine mammals and other aquatic species and is funded in part by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Contact: Stephen Schuler, stephen.schuler@seaworld.com

 

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SOURCE SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment

Class Action Lawsuit Filed Alleging Defective Trim Panels on 2014 to 2021 Model Year Dodge Chargers and Chrysler 300s

ATLANTA, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Atlanta-based Webb, Klase & Lemond, LLC, Kansas City-based Wagstaff & Cartmell, LLP, and Detroit-based FinkBressack have filed a class action lawsuit against automotive giant FCA US, LLC («Chrysler») alleging it knowingly sold Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 vehicles with interior trim panels that peel away from the…

ATLANTA, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Atlanta-based Webb, Klase & Lemond, LLC, Kansas City-based Wagstaff & Cartmell, LLP, and Detroit-based FinkBressack have filed a class action lawsuit against automotive giant FCA US, LLC («Chrysler») alleging it knowingly sold Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 vehicles with interior trim panels that peel away from the adjacent surface of the vehicle frame («the defect»). According to the suit, this defect creates gaps that are both unsightly and can result in serious safety issues. Chrysler is the third largest automobile manufacturer in the United States.

The suit alleges that the defect is most prominent on the front doors, but also occurs on the rear doors, center console, and dashboard. The suit alleges Chrysler did not take steps to correct the defect during the manufacturing process, actively concealed the defect from the public, and continued to market and sell Chargers and 300s with the defect even after thousands of Charger and 300 owners and lessees complained. The suit alleges that Chrysler has failed to adequately remedy the defect while the cars are under warranty. Chrysler concedes that it must fix the defect while the cars are under warranty but it only performs a superficial repair that is bound to later fail. After the vehicles are outside the warranty period Chrysler refuses to repair the defect.

Once the defect begins to show itself, the vehicles – both of which are marketed as high-end cars – appear ugly and cheap. In addition to being unsightly, the defect raises serious safety issues. Most obviously, because the side airbags in both vehicles are located inside the door cavity, the proper deployment of the airbags is undermined when the cavity is not secure. The defect can also hamper the safe operation of the door locks, anti-theft mechanisms, and heating/cooling systems.

The plaintiffs seek to compel Chrysler to fix the defect in all affected Charger and 300 model vehicles. They also request reimbursement for all damages owners and lessees sustained as a result of the defect. Further, they demand that the Court order Chrysler to cease and desist designing, manufacturing, distributing, marketing, and selling the vehicles with the defect.

Counsel are also investigating similar defects in 2014 to 2021 model year Dodge Challengers.

The case, styled Johnson, et al. v. FCA US, LLC, is pending in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan and has been assigned case number 4:20-cv-12690-MFL-DRG.

If you wish to discuss this action, have been victimized by the defect, or have knowledge about the defect, please contact Webb, Klase & Lemond, LLC at (770) 444-0998 or contact@WebbLLC.com or Wagstaff & Cartmell, LLP at (816) 701-1167 or contact@wcllp.com. You may also visit the firms’ websites at http://www.WebbLLC.com and http://www.wagstaffcartmell.com.

Media Contact

E. Adam Webb, Webb, Klase & Lemond, LLC, +1 7704449325, contact@webbllc.com

 

SOURCE Webb, Klase & Lemond, LLC

Lev Peker and David Meniane of CarParts.com Win Silver Medals in 10th Annual Best in Biz Awards

TORRANCE, Calif., Dec. 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — CarParts.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: PRTS) («CarParts.com») CEO Lev Peker and CFO/COO David Meniane have been named silver medal winners in the Executive of the Year and Operations Executive of the Year for mid-sized companies categories in the Best in Biz…

TORRANCE, Calif., Dec. 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — CarParts.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: PRTS) («CarParts.com») CEO Lev Peker and CFO/COO David Meniane have been named silver medal winners in the Executive of the Year and Operations Executive of the Year for mid-sized companies categories in the Best in Biz Awards, the only independent business awards program judged each year by prominent editors and reporters from top-tier publications in North America.

It is rare for one company to receive two awards in this competition, vouching for the tremendous leadership both Lev and David have shown over the past year. Since they both joined the firm in early 2019, Lev and David have transformed the company both internally and for their consumers, resulting in a complete financial, logistical, and operational turnaround. CarParts.com recently reported its third consecutive quarter of double digit, profitable growth and the highest gross profit in the company’s history.

2020 marked the 10th annual Best in Biz Awards and – with a continuing global pandemic – was also a year like no other in the program’s 10-year history. Despite the global challenges, the 10th annual program saw a particularly strong field of entries from public and private companies of all sizes and spanning all geographic regions and industries in the U.S. and Canada, ranging from some of the most recognizable and admired global brands to the most innovative start-ups and nimble local companies – proving North American business’ resilience and continuing innovation and growth despite the odds. The judges were impressed with this year’s winners’ agility and adaptability that allowed their businesses to thrive, their willingness to always go the extra mile to help their customers in these unusual times.

«It’s been an incredibly rewarding journey and privilege to guide CarParts.com over the past year with David, and we are both very excited to be recognized by the Best in Biz team. Together, we’ve reimagined the auto parts market and built a platform that’s helped thousands of consumers get back on the road faster and more cost-effectively,» says Lev Peker, CarParts.com CEO.

«I’m humbled that our growing team has continued to prosper through the adversity and global challenges of this year with record performance. Lev and I have rebuilt the purpose and success of the firm and are honored on behalf of all CarParts.com employees – from our corporate office to distribution centers – to receive this recognition,» says David Meniane, CarParts.com CFO and COO.

Since the program’s inception in 2011, the Best in Biz Awards judging panels have consisted of both editors and reporters with keen expertise in selecting the best of the best from hundreds of high-performing companies and leaders. The 2020 judging panel included, among others, writers from Barron’s, Consumer Affairs, USA Today and Wired.

«Corporate resiliency has never been more important than in 2020 and the winning entries in the 10th annual Best in Biz Awards have impressive accomplishments in this area,» said Mark Huffman, Consumer Affairs, having judged six of the last 10 Best in Biz Awards competitions.

For a full list of gold, silver and bronze winners in Best in Biz Awards 2020, visit: http://www.bestinbizawards.com/2020-winners.

About CarParts.com
With over 25 years of experience, and 50 million parts delivered, we’ve streamlined our website and sourcing network to better serve the way drivers get the parts they need. Utilizing the latest technologies and design principles, we’ve created an easy-to-use, mobile-friendly shopping experience that, alongside our own nationwide distribution network, cuts out the brick-and-mortar supply chain costs and provides quality parts at a budget-friendly price.

CarParts.com is headquartered in Torrance, California.

About Best in Biz Awards
Since 2011, Best in Biz Awards has been the only independent business awards program judged by a who’s who of prominent reporters and editors from top-tier publications from North America and around the world. Over the years, judges in the premier awards program have ranged from Associated Press to the Wall Street Journal and winners have spanned the spectrum, from blue-chip companies that form the bedrock of the global economy to some of the world’s most innovative start-ups and nimble local companies. Each year, Best in Biz Awards honors are conferred in two separate programs: North America and International, and in 90 categories, including company, team, executive, product, and CSR, media, PR and other categories. For more information, visit: http://www.bestinbizawards.com

SOURCE CarParts.com, Inc.

JetBlue adds MIA flights to its New Year’s resolutions

MIAMI, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Low-cost carrier JetBlue Airways, one of the busiest airlines in the U.S. with 42 million passengers in 2019, fully committed

MIAMI, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Low-cost carrier JetBlue Airways, one of the busiest airlines in the U.S. with 42 million passengers in 2019, fully committed today to one of its New Year’s resolutions: launch first-ever flights at Miami International Airport.

JetBlue has set February 11, 2021 – the airline’s 21st birthday – as the start date for its Miami route expansion, which will include service to four U.S. cities: Boston (up to four times daily); Los Angeles (up to twice daily); New York-JFK (up to four times daily); and Newark (up to four times daily). The MiamiLos Angeles route will feature JetBlue Mint®, the airline’s premium travel experience.  The maximum of 14 daily flights would instantly make JetBlue one of MIA’s busiest passenger airlines.

«JetBlue’s historic launch into Miami-Dade County with up to 14 daily flights is great news for our families, tourism industry, and business community, as we work to help our economy rebound from the pandemic,» said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. «I proudly welcome JetBlue to Miami-Dade. And I’m pleased to see them taking important steps to keep passengers and employees safe and healthy.»

Headquartered in New York and trademarked as New York’s Hometown Airline®, JetBlue serves nearly 100 domestic and international BlueCities – soon to also include Magic City.

«JetBlue has a long history of serving Florida and we are so pleased to expand our presence to Miami International Airport – the busiest airport in the U.S. we do not currently serve – where we can introduce our award-winning service and low fares to even more travelers in South Florida,» said Scott Laurence, head of revenue and planning, JetBlue. «With JetBlue service now stretching from Miami to Fort Lauderdale to West Palm we have a winning combination of service that will set us up for continued success in the Sunshine State.»

«I wish JetBlue my deepest thanks and congratulations for making this monumental expansion to MIA, and for their significant investment of flights to the Miami market,» said Lester Sola, MIA Director and CEO. «Welcoming one of the world’s leading low-cost carriers and busiest airlines to our network is a major landmark event in our airport’s history. Their new daily flights on four popular U.S. routes provide a diverse menu of travel options to our passengers and will generate increased business revenue and job creation in our community.»

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MEDIA CONTACT:
Greg Chin
305.876.7017
MIAcommunications@miami-airport.com
www.miami-airport.com

Philip Stewart
Manager Corporate Communications
JetBlue
philip.stewart@jetblue.com

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SOURCE Miami International Airport

MIA task force gets local cargo community vaccine ready

MIAMI, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — On December 16, more than 50 representatives from Miami-Dade County’s air cargo community attended the second virtual meeting of the Miami-Dade Aviation Department’s MIAVAC19 Task Force, formed to lead the preparation and coordination of Miami International Airport’s cargo community for the arrival and mass distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine domestically and…

MIAMI, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — On December 16, more than 50 representatives from Miami-Dade County’s air cargo community attended the second virtual meeting of the Miami-Dade Aviation Department’s MIAVAC19 Task Force, formed to lead the preparation and coordination of Miami International Airport’s cargo community for the arrival and mass distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine domestically and internationally.

As the busiest U.S. airport for international freight and the leading cargo gateway to and from Latin America and the Caribbean, MIA is poised to be one of the key global hubs for the vaccine. MIA is the first airport in the Western Hemisphere and only the second in the world to be designated by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) as a pharmaceutical freight hub in the transport of pharmaceuticals (pharma) and vaccines. MIA received the IATA designation for engaging the local cargo community in IATA’s Center of Excellence for Independent Validators (CEIV) Pharma Certification Program, which prepares logistics companies to become experts at properly handling sensitive pharma products shipped by air. MIA’s Pharma Hub includes five logistics providers that have received the IATA CEIV certification.    

«In the midst of this unprecedented global health crisis, Miami-Dade County is incredibly fortunate to be home to one of the most well-equipped airports in the world for receiving and handling COVID-19 vaccines,» said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. «I applaud the MIAVAC19 task force for preparing MIA to be a leading gateway for these historic shipments, which will help save lives in our community and across our region.» 

After surveying its cargo tenants in September, the task force determined that MIA is home to 368,064 square feet of refrigerated cargo space, including 27,212 square feet solely dedicated to handling pharmaceuticals and vaccines – the most at any U.S. airport in both categories.

The task force’s action plan includes identifying additional cooler space available outside of MIA, mapping out the airport’s parking capacity for large freighter aircraft, designating potential cargo truck parking and staging areas, and planning training sessions for freight forwarders and brokers regarding the latest federal guidelines for importing the vaccines. The task force has also provided a conduit for collaboration and communication enabling the cargo community to stay informed on the latest developments in distribution plans.

«We deeply appreciate the support and partnership of every airline, freight forwarder, ground handler, integrated carrier, logistics provider, government agency and others represented in the MIAVAC19 Task Force, which has MIA well positioned to efficiently receive and transport the vaccines to communities throughout the Americas,» said Lester Sola, MIA Director and CEO. «MIA is on pace for another record year in cargo volume, and with the vaccine shipments expected to significantly increase our cargo activity throughout 2021, Miami-Dade County will benefit from additional job creation and business revenue as well.»

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MEDIA CONTACT:
Greg Chin
786.251.0588
MIACommunications@miami-airport.com 
www.miami-airport.com

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SOURCE Miami International Airport

Lindblad Expeditions And Island Conservation Launch Galápagos Island Relief Fund

NEW YORK, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Lindblad Expeditions, a global provider of expedition cruises, and Island…

NEW YORK, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Lindblad Expeditions, a global provider of expedition cruises, and Island Conservation, an international not-for-profit conservation organization, have launched the Galápagos Island Relief Fund to provide immediate financial relief for the people of the Galápagos Islands who have been devastated by the socio-economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Tourism accounts for more than 80% of the Galápagos economy, so in March, when travel restrictions suddenly halted the tourism industry, it caused profound hardship for families, businesses, and the community at large. In the first two months of the pandemic alone, the islands’ economy lost $50 million, almost a quarter of the annual income; and the Galápagos Chamber of Tourism recently reported that visitors between July and October dropped a staggering 95%. The economic devastation also poses a serious threat to the conservation of this extraordinary and pristine archipelago. 

Donations received by the Galápagos Island Relief Fund will enable Fundación Un Cambio Por La Vida (FUNCAVID), a local non-profit organization, to disseminate micro-loans to the people of the Galápagos.

The monies will provide immediate financial relief, address the basic needs of vulnerable families, allow children to stay in school, and help sustainable businesses survive, grow, and begin developing new income sources. These lines of credit will support hundreds of community enterprises and initiatives in the areas of local entrepreneurship and strengthening existing businesses, sustainable food production for food security, emergency aid for vulnerable families to meet basic living costs, and education. And the community can continue its inspiring journey of protecting the unique ecosystems and wildlife of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

«The people of Galápagos are struggling more than I’ve seen in my 53-year relationship with the Islands,» stated Sven Lindblad, Founder and CEO of Lindblad Expeditions. «Stimulating the local economy through community micro-loans has the power to activate a thriving system helping entrepreneurs and small business owners develop new ideas to complement sustainable tourism, and meeting the needs of the local community long after the pandemic is over.»

The goal is to secure US$500,000. The main fundraising mechanism will be an outreach to Lindblad guests who have voyaged with them to Galápagos. The small ship cruise line has also set up a matching program, where every $1 donated to the Galápagos Island Relief Fund (up to $50,000) will be matched 3:1 by an equivalent dollar-for-dollar donation from each: Sven and Kristin Lindblad’s Wanderlust Fund, Lindblad Expeditions, and the Lindblad Expeditions Board of Directors. 

«The Galápagos Island Relief Fund will enable Galápagos community members to further their education, create new businesses, and increase local food security—steps that are essential to building a more sustainable way of life on the islands, in which people and wildlife can thrive,» explained Karl Campbell, Island Conservation’s Executive Director of Latin America. 

Daniel Proaño, FUNCAVID Project Coordinator noted, «Together we will transform the strongest crisis that has impacted Galápagos and the world into an opportunity building bridges to bring our heritage to a higher level of resilience. Through your donation, we will be able to empower the dreams and creativity of the islanders, driving a productive reactivation through innovative ventures, with a social focus and the use of good environmental practices.»         

Every dollar raised (100% of funds donated) will stay in Galápagos. Persons interested in supporting the Galápagos Island Relief Fund may do so at islandrelief.fund. All donations, made through Island Conservation, a 501(c)3 charity, are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. 

About FUNCAVID
FUNCAVID, the «Un Cambio para la Vida (A Change for Life)» Foundation, is a Galápagos-based NGO that promotes the building of sustainable island communities through dialogue and liaison between local citizens, private companies, and government institutions.  Founded in 2009 by Patricio Proaño in memory of his son after a family tragedy, FUNCAVID aims to promote positive changes and improvements in the life of the Galápagos people, within the context of a sustainable future for the Galápagos Islands as one of the world’s most important protected areas.

About Island Conservation
Island Conservation’s mission is to prevent extinctions by removing invasive species from islands. Working alongside local communities, government management agencies, and conservation organizations, Island Conservation focuses on removing a primary threat to island wildlife – introduced invasive vertebrates – saving threatened plants and animals, restoring island ecosystems, and supporting island communities. Since 1994, they have successfully restored 64 islands worldwide, benefiting 1195 populations of 487 species and subspecies.

About Lindblad Expeditions
Lindblad Expeditions is an expedition travel company that focuses on ship-based voyages through its Lindblad Expeditions brand and on land-based travel through its subsidiary, Natural Habitat Adventures, an adventure travel and ecotourism company with a focus on responsible nature travel. Lindblad Expeditions works in partnership with National Geographic to inspire people to explore and care about the planet. The organizations work in tandem to produce innovative marine expedition programs and to promote conservation and sustainable tourism around the world. The partnership’s educationally oriented voyages allow guests to interact with and learn from leading scientists, naturalists and researchers while discovering stunning natural environments, above and below the sea, through state-of-the-art exploration tools. 

Interviews are available with:

  • Island Conservation: Victor Carrion, Ecuador Program Manager (available for Spanish speaking interviews)
  • Lindblad Expeditions: Amy Berquist, VP, Conservation, Education & Sustainability
  • FUNCAVID: Daniel Proaño, Project Coordinator; Patricio Proaño, President (available for Spanish speaking interviews)

For images: download here

 

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SOURCE Lindblad Expeditions

Innovative Robo-Taxi with ZF Technology

FRIEDRICHSHAFEN, Germany, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Future mobility will encompass ride-hailing solutions and robo-taxis to move people comfortably and safely through the megacities of the globe. A pioneer in the robo-taxi business is the independent Amazon subsidiary Zoox that develops personal transportation solutions. ZF is proud to be a partner of the Zoox ecosystem and to contribute to the success of this autonomously and electrically driving robo-taxi.

FRIEDRICHSHAFEN, Germany, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Future mobility will encompass ride-hailing solutions and robo-taxis to move people comfortably and safely through the megacities of the globe. A pioneer in the robo-taxi business is the independent Amazon subsidiary Zoox that develops personal transportation solutions. ZF is proud to be a partner of the Zoox ecosystem and to contribute to the success of this autonomously and electrically driving robo-taxi.

ZF will provide occupant safety systems and chassis modules for the new Zoox robo-taxi. The autonomous vehicle is designed for safe transportation of up to four passengers. Nevertheless, there might be situations in which the safety components cannot avoid an accident. In this case, innovative ZF technologies can help with mitigating crash consequences for the occupants.

These solutions include airbags mounted in the roof and in the seats. The challenge is the innovative camp-fire seating position which means that two passengers will be forward-looking and two passengers backward-looking. The usual occupant safety systems are optimized for forward-looking occupants. The safety concept for this robo-taxi has been specifically developed for these new seating positions.

The chassis is another key module, as it is the basis for a comfortable ride. It is critical to providing a positive rider experience. The precise integration of high-quality chassis components helps ensures that this happens.

For many years, ZF has been working on solutions for the Next Generation Mobility, including autonomous and electrically powered forms of mobility such as people or cargo movers.

ZF Friedrichshafen AG

ZF is a global technology company and supplies systems for passenger cars, commercial vehicles and industrial technology, enabling the next generation of mobility. ZF allows vehicles to see, think and act. In the four technology domains Vehicle Motion Control, Integrated Safety, Automated Driving, and Electric Mobility, ZF offers comprehensive solutions for established vehicle manufacturers and newly emerging transport and mobility service providers. ZF electrifies different kinds of vehicles. With its products, the company contributes to reducing emissions and protecting the climate.

ZF, which acquired WABCO Holdings Inc. on May 29, 2020, now has 160,000 employees worldwide with approximately 260 locations in 41 countries. In 2019, the two then-independent companies achieved sales of €36.5 billion (ZF) and $3.4 billion (WABCO).

For further press information and photos please visit: www.zf.com

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SOURCE ZF

Ram Announces Start of Production for New 2021 Ram 1500 TRX

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — 


Ram Announces Start of Production for New 2021 Ram 1500 TRX

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — 

  • Production of the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX begins with VIN No. 001 – a Launch Edition model – rolling off the assembly line
  • First 2021 Ram 1500 TRX to be auctioned for charity, with more details coming soon
  • 2021 Ram 1500 TRX is assembled at Sterling Heights Assembly Plant (SHAP) in Sterling Heights, Michigan
  • Located in a suburb north of Detroit, SHAP was built in 1953 as a jet engine plant and operated by the Army as the Michigan Ordinance Missile Plant

Ram announced today that production of the all-new 2021 Ram 1500 TRX has begun at the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant (SHAP) in Sterling Heights, Michigan. The first vehicle – VIN No. 001 – is a Ram 1500 TRX Launch Edition adorned in exclusive Anvil exterior paint that will be auctioned for charity. More details on the auction will be available early next year.

«We’re ecstatic to announce the start of production of the award-winning, all-new 2021 Ram 1500 TRX,» said Mike Koval Jr., Head of Ram Brand. «The Ram 1500 TRX bolsters the brand’s strong history of high-performance trucks while expanding Ram’s light-duty lineup with the segment’s best combination of performance, capability, luxury and technology.

«We are also well aware that Ram 1500 TRX Launch Edition VIN #001 will be an instant collectible truck that is sure to excite enthusiasts, so we plan to make it available via auction with all proceeds going to charity,» Koval added. «We look forward to providing further details about the auction and how potential buyers can bid on this very special Ram truck early next year.»

FCA invested nearly $1.5 billion to retool SHAP to build the next-generation Ram 1500 and to support the future growth of the Ram brand. The all-new truck officially launched in March 2018. More than 7,200 employees currently build the award-winning truck.

Designed bolt by bolt to significantly outperform every other truck, the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX has been tested to handle the most punishing conditions with extreme durability. A proven and reliable high-performance engine, the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX is powered by a 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI® V-8 engine that delivers top output for extended driving sessions without degradation in performance. The quickest, fastest and most powerful mass-produced half-ton pickup truck in the world is rated at 702 horsepower, 650 lb.-ft. of torque and delivers a new level of performance: 0-60 miles per hour (mph) in 4.5 seconds, the quarter mile in 12.9 seconds at 108 mph and a top speed of 118 mph.

The new 2021 Ram 1500 TRX was recently named the winner of the prestigious MotorTrend Truck of the Year® competition, marking the third consecutive year the Ram brand captured the coveted award. Ram 1500 won in 2019, and Ram Heavy Duty took top honors for 2020.

Commemorating America’s most powerful truck at 702 horsepower, the 2021 1500 TRX Launch Edition is limited to 702 units, which sold out in less than three hours. The Ram 1500 TRX Launch Edition is visually distinguished by its exclusive Anvil Gray paint, and inside, each truck features a special red and brushed-aluminum center console badge identifying it as a limited-edition Ram 1500 TRX Launch Edition model.

The Ram 1500 TRX Launch Edition package is coupled with the TRX Level 2 Equipment Group, adding carbon fiber interior trim, color accent package, head-up display, beadlock-capable wheels, 19-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system, dual-pane panoramic sunroof, Advanced Safety Group, and hood and bodyside graphics. Additionally, Ram 1500 TRX VIN No. 001 includes other optional equipment, such as RamBar by Mopar, rock rails by Mopar, bed-mounted tire carrier by Mopar, Trailer Tow Group and Trailer Reverse Steering Control.
 

Ram Truck Brand
In 2009, the Ram Truck brand launched as a stand-alone division, focused on meeting the demands of truck buyers and delivering benchmark-quality vehicles. With a full lineup of trucks, the Ram 1500, 2500/3500 Heavy Duty, 3500/4500/5500 Chassis Cab, ProMaster and ProMaster City, the Ram brand builds trucks that get the hard work done and families where they need to go.

Ram continues to outperform the competition and sets the benchmarks for:

  • 1,075 lb.-ft. of torque with Cummins Turbo Diesel 
  • Towing capacity of 37,100 lbs. with Ram 3500
  • Segment first 1,000 lb.-ft of torque with Cummins Turbo Diesel
  • Payload of 7,680 lbs. with Ram 3500
  • Most luxurious: Ram Limited with real wood, real leather and 12-inch Uconnect touchscreen
  • Best ride and handling with exclusive link coil rear and auto-level air suspensions
  • Most interior space with Ram Mega Cab
  • Most capable full-size off-road pickup – Ram Power Wagon
  • Most awarded light-duty truck in America
  • Highest owner loyalty of any half-ton pickup
  • Over the last 30 years, Ram has the highest percentage of pickups still on the road

Ram is part of the portfolio of brands offered by global automaker Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. For more information regarding FCA (NYSE: FCAU/ MTA: FCA), please visit www.fcagroup.com.

Follow Ram and FCA news and video on:
Company blog: http://blog.fcanorthamerica.com
Media website: http://media.fcanorthamerica.com
Ram Truck brand: www.ramtrucks.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/RamTrucks and https://www.facebook.com/FiatChrysler.NorthAmerica/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/ramtrucks and www.instagram.com/FiatChrysler_NA
Twitter: www.twitter.com/RamTrucks and www.twitter.com/FiatChrysler_NA
YouTube: www.youtube.com/RamTrucks and www.youtube.com/fcanorthamerica

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SOURCE FCA