As Awareness Month Begins, National Charity Flies Boy with Epilepsy 5,000 Miles to Bring Home His Life-Saving Service Dog

LAS VEGAS, Sept. 1, 2020  — Not even a pandemic can keep a boy from his dog. As National Service Dog Month begins today, a little boy from Alaska is finally home with the furry friend trained to save his life.

LAS VEGAS, Sept. 1, 2020  — Not even a pandemic can keep a boy from his dog. As National Service Dog Month begins today, a little boy from Alaska is finally home with the furry friend trained to save his life.

Seven-year-old Owen O’Bryan was born with Dravet Syndrome, an extremely rare form of epilepsy that affects an estimated 1 in 20,000 people in the United States. The severity of his seizures means Owen has never been alone, never slept in his own bed and never played outside unsupervised.

«I don’t know too many kids who have to play hide-and-seek in plain sight, but Owen does, because we worry about him having a seizure,» says his mom, Melissa. «And this is something Owen will never outgrow. He will always have a seizure disorder.»

Three years ago, Owen’s parents applied for a specially trained service dog to help their son achieve independence. This summer, they finally got the good news from the CARES Foundation in Concordia, Kansas: Owen’s dog was ready. Owen’s family, however, was not.

«So much timed had passed, we began to think it would never happen – and certainly not this summer during Covid. We weren’t financially prepared.» says Melissa. «Miracle Flights came through and took such a stress off our shoulders.»

The national charity provided free plane tickets for Owen and his family to make the 5,000-mile round-trip journey to bring home «Juno,» the seizure alert dog who is now Owen’s constant companion.

«I see now the independence that is possible for Owen – the freedoms of any other little boy to play outside and not be in our eyesight or at arm’s length at all times,» says Melissa. «We are incredibly grateful to Miracle Flights for helping us get our newest family member. I know Owen and his dog will do great things.»

For Owen, the first priority is getting his own bedroom, which he plans to decorate with a Star Wars theme.

Owen is one of the many children who must fly for specialized medical needs in spite of the Covid crisis. To help him and others reach life-changing medical services far from home, or to request a flight for your family, visit www.miracleflights.org.

About Miracle Flights
Miracle Flights is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides free air transportation to children and adults who need help reaching specialty medical care only available far from home. The organization, founded in 1985, has provided 132,482 flights and typically books more than 600 flights per month on commercial airlines across the United States. To request a flight, learn more or donate, call 800-359-1711 or visit miracleflights.org. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram.

Press Contact: Erika Koff: (702) 261-0494 or 246567@email4pr.com

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SOURCE Miracle Flights

Onboard Systems Sikorsky Black Hawk Replacement Cargo Hook Kit Certified by FAA

VANCOUVER, Wash., Sept. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Onboard Systems International, LLC, a leading provider of innovative helicopter cargo hook equipment, today announced that its replacement cargo hook kits for the Sikorsky UH-60A Black Hawk have been STC certified by the FAA. The new kits feature a dual solenoid design to eliminate the need for high-cost Cartridge Activated Devices (CADs) for back-up release functionality.

According to Karsten Lemmon, Vice…

VANCOUVER, Wash., Sept. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Onboard Systems International, LLC, a leading provider of innovative helicopter cargo hook equipment, today announced that its replacement cargo hook kits for the Sikorsky UH-60A Black Hawk have been STC certified by the FAA. The new kits feature a dual solenoid design to eliminate the need for high-cost Cartridge Activated Devices (CADs) for back-up release functionality.

According to Karsten Lemmon, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Onboard Systems, «When the U.S. Army started releasing Black Hawks for sale to the civilian market in 2014, we anticipated that there would be interest in replacing the legacy cargo hook equipment, since it requires CADs for the backup release functionality. As more and more Black Hawks are retired from military service and reconfigured for civilian external load missions, we believe our replacement hook kits will prove very popular.»

Onboard’s TALON® MC Keeperless Cargo Hook Replacement Kits for the Black Hawk were designed to include all of the safety features operators have come to expect from Onboard products, including lower hook weight, a keeperless design to eliminate dynamic rollout potential, 2.5 times the rated load release capacity, and a dual-actuation release lever to help eliminate accidental releases caused by contact with foreign objects.

The newly certified TALON MC Keeperless Cargo Hook Replacement Kits are available with an Onboard Weighing System (P/N 200-438-00), or without (P/N 200-437-00). An Onboard Weighing System lets pilots instantly know the cargo weight on the hook, reducing the risk of overload airframe stress and helping them make more informed aircraft loading decisions. To ensure maximum load security, Onboard’s Surefire® Technology is also built into the Black Hawk cargo hook kits. The Surefire circuit requires a purposeful, half-second press against the hook release button, guarding against inadvertent load loss resulting from accidental contact with the release button during flight.

About Onboard Systems

Onboard Systems International, LLC designs and manufactures innovative helicopter lift equipment for the worldwide aerospace industry, including belly hooks, cargo hook suspension systems, Onboard Weighing Systems, and remote hook equipment. Its low-weight, high quality products provide operators with increased safety and cost efficiencies through customer-driven designs, responsive service and support, and low on-going maintenance costs. Onboard Systems maintains a rigorous quality management system (QMS) designed to meet or exceed the strict requirements of AS9100 Revision D, ISO 9001:2015, helicopter airframe manufacturers, and aviation regulatory agencies. Founded in 1975, Onboard Systems was acquired in 2019 by Liberty Hall Capital Partners, a private equity firm focused exclusively on investments in businesses serving the global aerospace and defense industry. Onboard Systems is based in Vancouver, Washington; visit our website, OnboardSystems.com, for more information.

Media contact:
Sheri Gormley
246572@email4pr.com 
360-546-3072

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SOURCE Onboard Systems

Hesai Technology Releases Pandar128: A 128-Channel, High-Performance LiDAR for Autonomous Driving Applications

SHANGHAI, Sept. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Hesai, a global leader in LiDAR sensors, officially released its next-generation mechanical LiDAR, Pandar128. Designed for automotive volume production, Pandar128 is one of the most advanced mechanical LiDARs available and offers an ideal solution for autonomous driving applications.

Hesai Technology Releases Pandar128: A 128-Channel, High-Performance LiDAR for Autonomous Driving Applications

SHANGHAI, Sept. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Hesai, a global leader in LiDAR sensors, officially released its next-generation mechanical LiDAR, Pandar128. Designed for automotive volume production, Pandar128 is one of the most advanced mechanical LiDARs available and offers an ideal solution for autonomous driving applications.

Pandar128: 128-Channel, Image-like Resolution, High-Performance LiDAR

Pandar128 boasts:

  • Resolution: up to 0.1° (H) * 0.125° (V) at 10 Hz refresh rate
  • Up to 6,912,000 points/sec
  • Detection capability: 200 m (10% reflectivity target)
  • High reflectivity accuracy and precision
  • Higher ingress protection rating: IP6K9K

Pandar128 represents a massive leap in performance over existing mechanical LiDAR sensors. It offers the finest horizontal resolution (up to 0.1°), 1.5x the total points produced by other available 128-channel LiDARs, and has a detection capability of 200 meters @ 10% reflectivity. This unrivaled measurement frequency and distance enable superb perception over an extended range, providing autonomous driving systems with longer reaction time critical for safe operation at medium-to-high driving speeds.

Pandar128 Point Cloud

Pandar128 is designed with several other noteworthy improvements. It offers a higher level of ingress protection (IP6K9K), ensuring reliability in all weather conditions. Additionally, Hesai’s proprietary, industry-leading interference rejection feature has been further refined, reducing the noise rate. 

Pandar128 SLAM

Despite comprising twice the number of beams as Hesai’s Pandar64, Pandar128 retains a small form factor: it is just 7 mm taller and weighs only 1.63 kg. Pandar128’s compact design allows for seamless integration into a vehicle’s exterior for a more aesthetic configuration. The new system architecture also minimizes power consumption, requiring a maximum of 27 W (10 Hz), despite the massive data volume.

Pandar128’s design is more compact and lightweight

Most notably, Pandar128 is designed for automotive volume production. It has gone through comprehensive testing and is embedded with several innovative features, such as self-diagnosis for each beam. The sensor data is also encoded to safeguard against data misrepresentation or falsification. Referencing the full array of international automotive standards at the component, product, and process-level, Pandar128 has been meticulously scrutinized and optimized from the ground-up to ensure user safety, system integrity, and reliability.

Pandar128 has undergone more than 50 different reliability tests

A critical sensor in autonomous driving systems, LiDAR – and its production readiness – is a prerequisite for the large-scale deployment of autonomous vehicles. With Pandar128, Hesai continues to push the boundaries of LiDAR technology and engineering to help achieve this ultimate goal.

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Fly with peace of mind: Alaska Airlines eliminates change fees permanently

SEATTLE, Sept. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Alaska Airlines is giving guests more peace of mind and effective immediately will eliminate change fees on all domestic and international tickets.

SEATTLE, Sept. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Alaska Airlines is giving guests more peace of mind and effective immediately will eliminate change fees on all domestic and international tickets.

«COVID has taught us that flexibility in travel is key. As we evolve our approach to travel to include more than 100 safety actions, it’s important to give our guests flexibility when they book by eliminating change fees,» said Andrew Harrison, executive vice president and chief commercial officer for Alaska Airlines.

The new change-fee policy applies to all tickets, except for Saver fares. Previously, Alaska’s change fee of $125 applied to all non-Saver travel, except for guests traveling on refundable tickets and Mileage Plan top elite status members.

During the pandemic Alaska is also extending its flexible travel policy for all new ticket purchases, including Saver fares through Dec. 31, 2020.

Alaska Airlines continues to add travel-friendly policies and actions to its layered approach to safety. As part of nearly 100 Next-Level Care safety measures, designed to keep guests and employees safe, Alaska has:

  • Flown more than a million passengers, 99.99% of whom have adhered to Alaska’s «No Mask. No Travel.» policy. To date, the airline has suspended travel for 75 guests due to non-compliance.
  • Rolled out a series of innovations making it easier for guests to travel touch-free.
  • Extended physical distancing on board for fall travel, with blocked middle seats on all mainline flights and reduced capacity on regional flights through Oct. 31.
  • Continued its enhanced aircraft cleaning program, sanitizing planes between flights, including disinfecting high-touch areas of the plane such as tray tables, armrests and buckles.
  • Extended 2020 elite status through next year. Additionally, miles earned between January 2020April 2020 can be used towards earning status for 2022.
  • Learn more at Next-Level Care.

Alaska Airlines and its regional partners serve more than 115 destinations across the United States and North America, providing essential air service for our guests along with moving crucial cargo shipments, such as food, medicine, mail and e-commerce deliveries. With hubs in Seattle; San Francisco; Los Angeles; Portland, Oregon; and Anchorage, Alaska, the airline is known for low fares, award-winning customer service and sustainability efforts. With Alaska and its Global Partners, guests can earn and redeem miles on flights to more than 800 destinations worldwide. Learn more about Alaska at newsroom.alaskaair.com and blog.alaskaair.com. Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air are subsidiaries of Alaska Air Group (NYSE: ALK).

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SOURCE Alaska Airlines

2021 Mazda6: Standing Out From Its Class

IRVINE, Calif., Sept. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — From its distinctive styling and crafted interior to its engaging driving dynamics, the Mazda6 delivers an appeal unlike other midsize sedans. A long list of advanced technologies and safety features conveys a quiet confidence. The new Carbon Edition furthers the Mazda6’s individuality and helps reflects the owner’s discerning tastes. Mazda North American Operations today announces the 2021 Mazda6 will arrive in dealerships later this month.

IRVINE, Calif., Sept. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — From its distinctive styling and crafted interior to its engaging driving dynamics, the Mazda6 delivers an appeal unlike other midsize sedans. A long list of advanced technologies and safety features conveys a quiet confidence. The new Carbon Edition furthers the Mazda6’s individuality and helps reflects the owner’s discerning tastes. Mazda North American Operations today announces the 2021 Mazda6 will arrive in dealerships later this month.

The 2021 Mazda6 Sport now comes standard with Apple CarPlayTM and Android AutoTM capabilities. To deliver a smooth driving experience, the Mazda6 is equipped with a standard Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine capable of 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque on either regular (87 octane) or premium (93 octane) fuel, paired with a quick-shifting, six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift and sport modes, G-Vectoring Control Plus and front-wheel drive. The full suite of i-Activsense safety features, which includes Mazda Radar Cruise Control with stop and go function, Advanced Smart City Brake Support with Pedestrian Detection, Smart Brake Support with Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning with Lane-Keep Assist and Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert are all standard. Inside, occupants can enjoy the Mazda Connect infotainment system with eight-inch full color, touch screen display, six-speaker audio system, Bluetooth phone and audio pairing, two USB inputs, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, cloth seats, dual-zone climate control, push button start, remote keyless entry and electronic parking brake. Additional standard premium features that provide convenience and style include automatic on/off headlights, High Beam Control, rain sensing windshield wipers, rearview camera, LED headlight with auto-leveling, LED taillights and 17-inch gun metallic aluminum alloy wheels.

Mazda6 Touring upgrades to leatherette-trimmed seats, heated front seats, six-way power driver’s seat with manual lumbar support, Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry System, power moonroof, 19-inch gun metallic aluminum alloy wheels, two rear seat USB charging ports and rear air conditioning vents.

Focused on authentic and enriching experiences, the Mazda6 Grand Touring boasts the responsive Skyactiv-G 2.5 Turbo engine, which can generate a robust 320 lb-ft of torque and 250 horsepower with premium (93 octane) fuel or 310 lb-ft of torque and 227 horsepower with regular (87 octane) fuel. A new turbo badge is also added to the trunk to help identify the powertrain. New for 2021, the Mazda6 Grand Touring will feature wireless Apple CarPlayTM – a first for the brand. This trim level also adds Bose® 11-speaker premium audio, SiriusXM® satellite radio with three-month trial subscription, auto-diming rearview mirror with Homelink, heated door mirrors with driver’s side auto-dimming and paddle shifters on the steering wheel.

Mazda6 Grand Touring Reserve incorporates many premium features typically found in luxury midsize sedans. These include features such as a windshield-projected, full-color Active Driving Display head-up unit, Adaptive Front-lighting System, black or Parchment leather-trimmed seats, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel, automatic power folding door mirrors, windshield wiper de-icer, eight-way power and memory driver’s seat with power lumbar support and six-way power passenger’s seat. Traffic Sign Recognition is available with the optional Mazda Navigation System accessory installed. The styling is enhanced with a sophisticated, yet sporty 19-inch bright silver finish aluminum alloy wheels, LED signature headlights and a rear lip spoiler.

New this year, the Carbon Edition shares similar features to the Mazda6 Grand Touring Reserve and adds unique styling to encourage fans to go against the grain. The Carbon Edition features Polymetal Gray exterior paint, gloss black rear lip spoiler, gloss black door mirrors and 19-inch black metallic aluminum alloy wheels. The interior has red leather seats with black cross stitching and black hairline interior accents on the dash and door panels. The dash and center console armrest add red stitching to help bring the color scheme together.

The top-trim Mazda6 Signature is an aspirational trim level that exemplifies Mazda designers’ abilities to create an uncompromised blend of premium styling, dynamic performance and intuitive amenities. The elegant design starts with the gunmetal front grille and leads to the sophisticated interior, available in either Parchment or Deep Chestnut Nappa leather, adorned with authentic Japanese Sen wood and gilded UltraSuede interior accents. A 360º View Monitor with front and rear parking sensors, seven-inch TFT reconfigurable digital gauge display, Mazda Navigation System, Traffic Sign Recognition and SiriusXM three-year Traffic and Travel Link subscription add to the convenience and safety of the Mazda6 Signature. The black headliner, auto-dimming frameless rearview mirror with Homelink, gunmetal front grille, LED ambient lights and unique stitching on the leather-wrapped steering wheel complete the heightened look and feel.

MSRP2 FOR THE 2021 MAZDA6 IS AS FOLLOWS:

Mazda6 Sport

$24,325

Mazda6 Touring

$26,925

Mazda6 Grand Touring

$30,025

Mazda6 Grand Touring Reserve

$32,525

Mazda6 Carbon Edition

$32,800

Mazda6 Signature

$35,750

PREMIUM PAINT COLORS:

Soul Red Crystal Metallic

$595

Machine Gray Metallic

$495

Snowflake White Pearl Mica

$395

Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, California, and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States and Mexico through approximately 620 dealers. Operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City. For more information on Mazda vehicles, including photography and B-roll, please visit the online Mazda media center at InsideMazda.MazdaUSA.com/Newsroom.

Follow MNAO’s social media channels through Twitter and Instagram at @MazdaUSA and Facebook at Facebook.com/MazdaUSA.

1 MSRP does not include $945 for destination and handling ($990 in Alaska), taxes, title or additional fees. Dealers set actual sale prices.

2 MSRP does not include $945 for destination and handling ($990 in Alaska), taxes, title or additional fees. Dealers set actual sale prices.

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SOURCE Mazda North American Operations

The New Rolls-Royce Ghost

GOODWOOD, United Kingdom, Sept. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Reflecting the minimalist philosophy that underpins New Ghost, we are excited to share the highlights of this transformative motor car below:

GOODWOOD, United Kingdom, Sept. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Reflecting the minimalist philosophy that underpins New Ghost, we are excited to share the highlights of this transformative motor car below:

  • The most technologically advanced Rolls-Royce yet.
  • Succeeds the most successful product in the marque’s 116-year history.
  • Reflects ‘Post Opulent’ design philosophy, rejecting superficial expressions of wealth.
  • Built on rigid aluminium Rolls-Royce spaceframe architecture.
  • All-wheel drive and all-wheel steering for unprecedented poise and surefootedness.
  • World first Planar suspension system significantly increases agility and effortlessness.
  • Equipped with hallmark 6.75-litre twin-turbo V12 engine, delivering 563 hp and 627 lbf-ft.
  • For effortless egress, doors now electrically open as well as close.
  • Interior components tuned to specific resonant frequency to create a sense of serenity.
  • Down lit Pantheon grille discreetly illuminates Rolls-Royce iconography.
  • Illuminated Fascia debuts featuring Ghost nameplate surrounded by more than 850 stars.

«The first Goodwood Ghost was a response to a whole new generation of clients, both in age and attitude. These men and women asked us for a slightly smaller, less ostentatious means to own a Rolls-Royce. The success of the product we created for them fulfilled our most ambitious expectations. Over its ten-year lifespan, which began in 2009, Ghost has become the most successful model in the marque’s 116-year history.

«To create a new product that would resonate with our Ghost clients for the next ten years meant we had to listen carefully to their demands. Today we set new standards in customer centricity by creating a completely new motor car for a unique group of Rolls-Royce’s clients. These business leaders and entrepreneurs demand more of their Ghost than ever. They require a new type of super-luxury saloon that is dynamic, serenely comfortable, and perfect in its minimalism. Ghost is this product.

«The only components that we carried over from the first Goodwood Ghost were the Spirit of Ecstasy and umbrellas. Everything else was designed, crafted, and engineered from the ground up. The result is the most technologically advanced Rolls-Royce yet. It distils the pillars of our brand into a beautiful, minimalist, yet highly complex product that is perfectly in harmony with our Ghost clients’ needs and perfectly in tune with the times,» said Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

Full details are available at thenewghost.com

#rollsroyceghost

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SOURCE Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

RVshare Reaches Two Million Days Booked, Doubles Company’s Seven-Year Booking Total in Thirteen Months

AUSTIN, Texas, and AKRON, Ohio, Sept. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — RVshare, the first and largest peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace, has reached the milestone of two million days booked for RV trips since the company’s inception.

AUSTIN, Texas, and AKRON, Ohio, Sept. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — RVshare, the first and largest peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace, has reached the milestone of two million days booked for RV trips since the company’s inception.

The platform has been in operation since 2013 and only recently reached one million days booked in July 2019. The site has doubled their seven-year booking total in a short 13 months.

The surge in RV rentals this spring and summer has been fueled by the desire of American families to maintain control of their surroundings during the pandemic. There is no sign of business slowing down as bookings for fall have already increased 123% year-over-year and growing.

«I am so proud of our team for all their efforts put forth to achieve this significant milestone,» said RVshare CEO Jon Gray. «Not only are we thrilled to enable travelers to experience the joys of nature and togetherness that RV travel provides, but to be a driving force in the recovery of the American travel industry.»

RVs have moved into the mainstream of American travel and now serve as the preferred choice for families to take a socially distanced vacation at a time when air travel and hotel stays raise uneasiness.

Strong booking performance shows no signs of letting up as summer comes to an end. According to a recent RVshare survey, nearly 70% of respondents plan to take a trip in the next three months, and 68% are likely to consider an RV for their fall getaway.1

For more information on RV travel and to explore rental options, visit www.rvshare.com.

About RVshare

RVshare is the first and largest peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace. With more than 100,000 vehicles available, RVshare’s diverse inventory ranges from affordable travel trailers to luxury motorhomes and can accommodate any outdoor adventure, whether it’s a weekend of camping or a cross-country tour of national parks. Through RVshare, families and groups can experience a one-of-a-kind trip and create memories that will last a lifetime. In addition to offering a unique travel experience, RVshare provides RV owners in North America the opportunity to turn their RV into a second income. For more information, visit rvshare.com, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @rvshare.

1 RVshare Travel Sentiment Survey, August 2020. Methodology: Active RVshare customers in the past 90 days, 323 responses, Ages 25-99, Male (44%), Female (54%)

 

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SOURCE RVshare

General Motors and Ventec Life Systems Complete Delivery of 30,000 V+Pro Critical Care Ventilators

KOKOMO, Ind., Sept. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — The team General Motors and Ventec Life Systems assembled to help fight the COVID-19 pandemic delivered its 30,000th V+Pro critical care ventilator to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services yesterday, the companies announced today.

At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, GM and Ventec collaborated to rapidly scale up production of critical care ventilators. In one month, the teams went from an introductory phone call to delivering…

KOKOMO, Ind., Sept. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — The team General Motors and Ventec Life Systems assembled to help fight the COVID-19 pandemic delivered its 30,000th V+Pro critical care ventilator to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services yesterday, the companies announced today.

At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, GM and Ventec collaborated to rapidly scale up production of critical care ventilators. In one month, the teams went from an introductory phone call to delivering life-saving technology to frontline medical heroes. The full federal order was completed in just 154 days, with one ventilator completed about every seven minutes.

With yesterday’s shipment, GM has formally turned over operational control of the company’s Kokomo ventilator manufacturing operation to Ventec. Ventec will produce VOCSN multi-function critical care ventilators in Kokomo, as well as in Bothell, Washington in response to ongoing demand during the pandemic. Ventec’s monthly ventilator production increased 80 times during the pandemic.

«Our drive to put critical care ventilators into production was fueled by thousands of people at GM, Ventec and our suppliers who all wanted to do their part to help save lives during the pandemic,» said Mary Barra, GM Chairman and CEO. «It was inspiring to see so many people achieve so much so quickly.»

«Our hope continues to be that mitigation efforts stop the spread of this virus. Ventec Life Systems is committed to maintaining increased production capacity for as long as it is needed to ensure frontline healthcare workers have the tools necessary to save lives,» said Ventec Life Systems CEO Chris Kiple. «We are incredibly proud of how our teams came together united by a common mission.»  

One of the first medical facilities to receive a GM-Ventec ventilator was Weiss Memorial Hospital in Chicago.

«We are very grateful to Ventec Life Systems and General Motors for the critical care ventilators we received in April,» said Dr. Suzanne Pham, M.D., hospitalist at Weiss Memorial Hospital. «The devices built in just one month are currently helping patients battling COVID-19, and are valuable tools enabling our medical team to save lives. I’m proud to say we have had many patients beat COVID-19, wean off the ventilator, and safely return home.»

One of those patients was Jeffrey Dickerson of Chicago.

«I’m grateful that Weiss Memorial Hospital received ventilators created by Ventec Life Systems and General Motors,» he said. «When I was rushed into the hospital room, I couldn’t walk without pausing to catch my breath. The team at Weiss put me on one of your machines, and I was fortunate to make a fast recovery. They later told me they were running out of ventilators, but fortunately had received one of the first shipments from the federal government, so I didn’t have to wait for help.»

Many of the men and women who joined this historic effort to quickly ramp up ventilator production felt a strong call of duty to support their families, communities and country.

«When I received information that Kokomo was hiring for its ventilator operations, I was homeschooling my niece. At first, I didn’t respond to the email. But it became apparent this was a historic moment and I wanted to do my part to help.»

Glenn Sandifer, product assembler

«This team has worked so hard to accomplish this. Our commitment, our purpose to help those in need, is inspiring. It’s much deeper than simply hitting our goal. All of us chose to leave the security of our homes and give 110 percent every single day to build ventilators. We came in with the attitude that for every challenge we were handed that day, that we would face it, fix it and overcome it. That collective attitude has brought us to where we are today.»

Ian Cartier, robotic technician

«We – GM and me, as an employee – have helped our country through rough times. I contributed. We contributed. We have done our part. And it was the right thing to do.»

J.C. Barnett, group leader 

«My family has been a part of the medical industry. My daughter is a physician assistant and my wife works for a blood center. But it wasn’t until GM started this project in late March that it hit home for me. The moment I saw our first shipment of critical care ventilators being received at the hospitals by the doctors and medical staff was the moment I realized the importance of what we were doing.»

Mike Schroeder, shift leader

«Some days I would get in at 6 a.m. and leave at 3 a.m., and we were working side by side with GM the entire time. Their skill and dedication were essential to successfully completing this mission.»

Andy Chapman, mechanical engineer

The unique collaboration between Ventec and GM to build V+Pro critical care ventilators began with conference calls initiated by stopthespread.org on March 17 and 18. The first units were delivered to Franciscan Health Olympia Fields in Olympia Fields, Illinois and Weiss Memorial Hospital in Chicago. A third shipment was delivered by UPS to the Gary/Chicago International Airport on April 18 for distribution to other locations where the need was greatest.

Photos and video of the historic partnership between General Motors and Ventec Life Systems can be found at www.VentecGM.com.

General Motors (NYSE:GM) is a global company committed to delivering safer, better and more sustainable ways for people to get around. General Motors, its subsidiaries and its joint venture entities sell vehicles under the Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Cadillac, Holden, Baojun and Wuling brands. More information on the company and its subsidiaries, including OnStar, a global leader in vehicle safety and security services, can be found at http://www.gm.com.

Ventec Life Systems is redefining respiratory care to improve patient outcomes and reduce caregiver challenges from the hospital to home. Ventec’s leading product, VOCSN, is the first and only Multi-Function Ventilator that seamlessly integrates five devices – a critical care Ventilator, 6 L/min equivalent Oxygen concentrator, touch button Cough assist, hospital grade Suction, and a high-performance Nebulizer – into one integrated respiratory system that is lightweight and mobile. VOCSN is fully customizable to meet patient needs for pediatric and adult patients. Learn more at VentecLife.com and connect with Ventec on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter, and Instagram.

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SOURCE General Motors Co.

Southern California’s Ontario International Airport earns prestigious accreditation for customer service

ONTARIO, Calif., Sept. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — A leading aviation trade organization has recognized Ontario International Airport (ONT) for its steadfast commitment to customer service, placing the Southern California gateway among just nine airports in North America – and the only Los Angeles-area airport – to earn the distinction.

ONTARIO, Calif., Sept. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — A leading aviation trade organization has recognized Ontario International Airport (ONT) for its steadfast commitment to customer service, placing the Southern California gateway among just nine airports in North America – and the only Los Angeles-area airport – to earn the distinction.

The Customer Service Experience Accreditation bestowed by Airports Council International, the Montreal-based trade association for airports worldwide, honors ONT for its ability to identify and understand the needs and expectations of airline passengers and airport visitors, all the while enhancing the customer service experience.

«The ACI honor validates what we have been striving for since the City of Ontario and San Bernardino County took control of the airport less than four years ago,» said Atif Elkadi, ONT’s deputy chief executive officer. «We knew Ontario could be an attractive low-cost airport for our airline partners, but we also knew that as an airport for the region we would have to provide a high-quality customer experience each and every day. For us, that means knowing what our leisure and business travelers need and expect and delivering it consistently and effectively.»

Since the transfer of ownership from the City of Los Angeles in late 2016, ONT has undergone a transformation of its food, beverage and retail concessions, bringing popular national brands as well as unique, California-centric dining options to passenger terminals.

Inside the airport, passengers enjoy spacious, light-filled check-in halls, stress-free security screening, comfortable gate areas and, most importantly, updated restrooms which are cleaned frequently throughout the day. Wifi service throughout the terminals is free, fast and dependable.

Ontario airport offers easy curbside access for arriving and departing passengers, modestly priced parking close to passenger terminals and exclusive ride-hail service provided by Lyft, Inc. OmniTrans offers convenient, economical public bus service to ONT every 15 minutes, 7 days a week.

«Our Customer Experience team has worked hard to receive this accreditation, and we pride ourselves on knowing our customers, anticipating their needs and exceeding their expectations,» Elkadi added. «When concerns are raised, we act promptly to resolve them, all part of our hallmark hassle-free customer service experience.»

Ontario airport was the fastest growing airport in the U.S. by passenger volume in 2018 and 2019.

About Ontario International Airport
Ontario International Airport (ONT) is the fastest growing airport in the United States, according to Global Traveler, a leading publication for frequent fliers. Located in the Inland Empire, ONT is approximately 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles in the center of Southern California. It is a full-service airport which, before the coronavirus pandemic, offered nonstop commercial jet service to 26 major airports in the U.S., Mexico and Taiwan. More information is available at www.flyOntario.comFollow @flyONT on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram   

About the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA)
The OIAA was formed in August 2012 by a Joint Powers Agreement between the City of Ontario and the County of San Bernardino to provide overall direction for the management, operations, development and marketing of ONT for the benefit of the Southern California economy and the residents of the airport’s four-county catchment area. OIAA Commissioners are Ontario City Council Member Alan D. Wapner (President), Retired Riverside Mayor Ronald O. Loveridge (Vice President), Ontario City Council Member Jim W. Bowman (Secretary), San Bernardino County Supervisor Curt Hagman (Commissioner) and retired business executive Julia Gouw (Commissioner).

OIAA Media Contact:
Steve Lambert, (909) 841-7527 slambert@flyontario.com

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SOURCE Ontario International Airport

American Hotel Income Properties REIT LP Completes the Sale of the Wingate Tampa Hotel

VANCOUVER, BC, Sept. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ – American Hotel Income Properties REIT LP («AHIP» or the «Company») (TSX: HOT.UN, HOT.U, and HOT.DB.U) announced today that it has closed the previously announced sale of its 86-room Wingate Tampa property for gross proceeds of US$7.5 million. AHIP has provided US$2.65 million in financing for the buyer, secured by a mortgage, which is repayable at the end of three years along with accrued interest….

VANCOUVER, BC, Sept. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ – American Hotel Income Properties REIT LP («AHIP» or the «Company») (TSX: HOT.UN, HOT.U, and HOT.DB.U) announced today that it has closed the previously announced sale of its 86-room Wingate Tampa property for gross proceeds of US$7.5 million. AHIP has provided US$2.65 million in financing for the buyer, secured by a mortgage, which is repayable at the end of three years along with accrued interest. Net proceeds of the sale will be used to repay amounts outstanding under the Company’s revolving credit facility.

«We’re pleased to complete the sale of this non-core asset, which was nearing significant brand-mandated renovation commitments,» said John O’Neil, CEO.  «We expect minimal FFO dilution and believe using the proceeds to reduce our debt is the most efficient use of capital at this time.»

Following this sale, AHIP now owns 78 Premium Branded select-service hotel properties (totaling 8,801 guestrooms) located in 22 states and 51 cities, including 24 extended-stay oriented hotels.  Its portfolio now consists of 34 Marriott-branded hotels, 28 Hilton-branded hotels, 15 IHG-branded hotels and one Choice-branded hotel. 

ABOUT AMERICAN HOTEL INCOME PROPERTIES REIT LP

American Hotel Income Properties REIT LP (TSX: HOT.UN, TSX: HOT.U, TSX: HOT.DB.U), or AHIP, is a limited partnership formed to invest in hotel real estate properties across the United States. AHIP’s portfolio of 78 premium branded, select-service hotels are located in secondary metropolitan markets that benefit from diverse and stable demand. AHIP hotels operate under brands affiliated with Marriott, Hilton, IHG and Choice Hotels through license agreements.  The Company’s long-term objectives are to build on its proven track record of successful investment, deliver monthly U.S. dollar denominated distributions to unitholders, and generate value through the continued growth of its diversified hotel portfolio.  More information is available at www.ahipreit.com.

FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

Certain statements in this news release may constitute «forward-looking information» within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, and it may cause actual results, performance or achievements or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements or industry results expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward-looking information generally can be identified by the use of terms and phrases such as «anticipate», «believe», «could», «estimate», «expect», «feel», «intend», «may», «plan», «predict», «project», «subject to», «will», «would», and similar terms and phrases, including references to assumptions. Some of the specific forward-looking information referred to in this news release includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to: the expectation by management that AHIP will experience minimal FFO dilution from the sale of this hotel; management’s belief that using the proceeds to reduce AHIP’s debt is the most efficient use of capital at this time; and AHIP’s long-term objectives.

Forward-looking information is based on a number of key expectations and assumptions made by AHIP, including, without limitation: AHIP will be successful in executing its strategic plan; the COVID-19 pandemic will continue to negatively impact the U.S. economy, U.S. hotel industry and AHIP’s business, and the extent and duration of such impact; a reasonably stable North American economy and stock market; the continued long-term strength of the U.S. lodging industry; capital markets will provide AHIP with readily available access to equity and/or debt financing on terms acceptable to AHIP; and the value of the U.S. dollar. Although the forward-looking information contained in this news release is based on what AHIP’s management believes to be reasonable assumptions and on information currently available, AHIP cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with such information.

Forward-looking information involves significant risks and uncertainties and should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results. Those risks and uncertainties include, among other things, risks related to: the possibility that the performance of AHIP’s portfolio may not be maximized and long-term value enhancement may not be achieved at anticipated levels, or at all; the pace of recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic cannot be accurately predicated and may be slow; AHIP may not be successful in executing its strategic plan; current occupancy recovery trends at AHIP’s hotels may not continue, may decelerate or regress; and AHIP may not realize any of its long term objectives contemplated in this news release or otherwise. Additional information about risks and uncertainties is contained in AHIP’s MD&A dated August 6, 2020 and annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2019, copies of which are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

The forward-looking information contained herein is expressly qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement. Forward-looking information reflects management’s current beliefs and is based on information currently available to AHIP. The forward-looking information is made as of the date of this news release and AHIP assumes no obligation to update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by applicable law.

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SOURCE American Hotel Income Properties REIT LP