Influencers – Página 68

Akerna Flash Report: Data shows cannabis consumers are spending 25% more amid the Covid-19 pandemic

DENVER, March 4, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Business intelligence from Akerna (Nasdaq: KERN), an enterprise software, leading compliance technology provider, and developer of the cannabis industry’s first seed-to-sale enterprise resource planning (ERP) software technology (MJ Platform®), shows that one year since the Covid-19 pandemic has altered daily lives of North Americans, cannabis shoppers and patients are spending about 25-30% more per purchase and are increasingly purchasing more volume of products per visit.

Over the past year (2020-2021), the average recreational cannabis purchase was $60 – climbing up from $48 in the previous year (2019-2020), with consumers’ basket size growing from an average of 2.25 products to 2.6. For medical purchasing, the average sale size is up to $123 per purchase, up from $100 in the previous year, and basket volume grew from 2.9 items to 3.02.

«This past year was a booming one for cannabis, even amid the economic crisis caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. The biggest change we see in our data is that patients are buying more products per visit, and it’s important for cannabis businesses to take these changes into mind when marketing their products,» said James Ahrendt, Business Intelligence Architect at Akerna. «With flower continuing to be the go-to product, brands should focus on differentiating their flower from the competition as well as education and benefits around other product categories.»

Additional Insights

Cannabis consumer shopping during the Covid-19 pandemic (2/1/2020 – 1/31/2021):

Average Order Sale (ticket):

Male (Rec) – $59.02
Male (Med) – $121.06
Female (Rec) – $64.50
Female (Med) – $125.22

Average basket size:

Male (Rec) – 2.48 items
Male (Med) – 2.93 items
Female (Rec) – 2.76 items
Female (Med) – 3.10 items

Gender Sales Market Share

Rec – Male 67% / Female 33%
Med – Male 61% / Female 39%

Age Group Sales Market Share:

Under 30 – 27%
30 – 40 – 29%
40 – 50 – 19%
50 – 60 – 13%
60+ – 12%

Category Sales Market Share:

Flower – 43%
Cartridges / Pens – 35%
Infused Edible – 8%
Concentrate – 12%
Non-Medicated – 1%
Infused Non-edible – 1%

About MJ Freeway

MJ Freeway is more than software as a service. Its flagship solution, MJ Platform, includes Platform Insights. Now operators, investors, and regulators can access the industry’s largest and most statistically relevant database to drive data-driven business decisions.

Platform Insights provides:

The greatest statistical relevance across countries
Normalized data (not farmed from various disparate POS platforms)
Full cannabis supply chain data
Business insights founded in category management methodology

Platform Insights can eliminate the guesswork and provide answers to questions like:

What is the gross margin return on inventory?
What SKUs should be carried?
How do basket adjacencies influence discounting and retention strategies?
What does a medical market look like a year or five years after decriminalizing cannabis?

Click here for more information about MJ Platform.

About Akerna:

Akerna (Nasdaq: KERN) is an enterprise software company focused on compliantly serving the cannabis, hemp, and CBD industry. First launched in 2010, Akerna has tracked more than $20 billion in cannabis sales to date and is the first cannabis software company listed on Nasdaq. The company’s cornerstone technology, MJ Platform, the world’s leading infrastructure as a service platform, powers retailers, manufacturers, brands, distributors, and cultivators.

For more information, visit https://www.akerna.com/.

About the Akerna Flash Report:

Flash Report is a look at buying trends in the cannabis market as captured by Akerna’s MJ Freeway subsidiary.

MJ Freeway provides operators with MJ Platform, the industry-leading solution for regulatory compliance technology, from seed-to-sale-to-self. Some instances of the flash report may include business intelligence derived from Akerna’s family of companies, including Ample Organics, Leaf Data Systems, solo sciences, and Trellis.

Data is derived from MJ Platform, the leading provider of cannabis compliance software for the marijuana industry. Sales projections are based on market adjustment calculations and represent the entire US market as an aggregate.

Reporting Data is obtained from operators using Akerna’s MJ Platform solutions. Akerna has one of the largest seed-to-sale footprints in the cannabis industry, operating in 15 countries and 23 U.S. states, including Pennsylvania, Oklahoma, Puerto Rico, Arizona, California, Utah, Michigan, Colorado, Montana, Nevada, Maine, Vermont, New Mexico, Missouri, Texas, Ohio, Maryland, Washington D.C., Kansas, Arkansas, New York.

Increases are relative to the prior period. Additional business intelligence data sources may include proprietary tools used by Akerna’s family of companies.

Forward-Looking Statements:

Certain statements made in this release are «forward-looking statements» within the meaning of the «safe harbor» provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used in this press release, the words «estimates,» «projected,» «expects,» «anticipates,» «forecasts,» «plans,» «intends,» «believes,» «seeks,» «may,» «will,» «should,» «future,» «propose» and variations of these words or similar expressions (or the negative versions of such terms or expressions) are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements include but are not limited to statements regarding the ability of the MJ Platform team to help operators make decisions through analytics and reporting. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results, and involve a number of significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other important factors, many of which are outside Akerna’s control, that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Important factors, among others that may affect actual results or outcomes, include (i) Akerna’s ability to maintain relationships with customers and suppliers and retain its management and key employees, (ii) changes in applicable laws or regulations, (iii) changes in the market place due to the coronavirus pandemic or other market factors, (iv) and other risks and uncertainties disclosed from time to time in Akerna’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including those under «Risk Factors» therein. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. All information herein speaks only as of the date hereof, in the case of information about Akerna, or the date of such information, in the case of information from persons other than Akerna. Akerna undertakes no duty to update or revise the information contained herein. Forecasts and estimates regarding Akerna’s industry and end markets are based on sources believed to be reliable; however, there can be no assurance these forecasts and estimates will prove accurate in whole or in part.

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SOURCE Akerna

Rescue Reston Announces Two New Board Members

RESTON, Va., March 4, 2021 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Rescue Reston is pleased to announce the appointment of two new board members, John McCrea and Douglas Britt. Both have been long standing active volunteers for Rescue Reston.

«The addition of John and Doug will add additional expertise and energy into steadfastly defending against development of two of the largest contiguous areas of Reston’s green…

«The addition of John and Doug will add additional expertise and energy into steadfastly defending against development of two of the largest contiguous areas of Reston’s green open spaces, both of which are part of the Chesapeake Bay watershed,» said Connie Hartke, President of Rescue Reston.

John McCrea and his family have enjoyed the Reston lifestyle for nearly 25 years. John is grateful for the Reston combination of Live, Work, and Play. He started a successful business in Reston. The McCrea daughters attended the Reston public schools and have been active with the Reston Swim teams, lifeguarded with RA, and have enjoyed watersports on the Reston Lakes. John was an Assistant Soccer Coach with Reston Soccer and the entire family enjoys the 55 miles of trails in Reston, as well as Lake Fairfax Park. John and his wife Trudy are devoted to the preservation of the open space of Reston for the generations to come.

Douglas Britt is a Virginia Master Naturalist and holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in Biology from Purdue University and the University of Toledo, respectively. He has served as President and Chief Operating Officer of four professional service organizations working in the fields of basic and applied life sciences, conservation biology and ecological restoration, and bioastronautics and astrobiology. He was twice awarded NASA’s Public Service Medal for scientific contributions to the agency. Mr. Britt has authored several scientific articles and testified to Congress on emerging energy and environmental issues. He and his wife Penny have resided in Reston since 1975. He has served on Reston Association’s Board of Directors and its Lakes, Boats & Docks Working Group. He was instrumental in Reston’s acceptance into the prestigious Biophilic Cities Network. Currently he serves as Chairman of Reston Association’s Environmental Advisory Committee while also serving on the Fairfax County Community-wide Energy and Climate Action Plan (CECAP) Task Force. His hobbies are golf, fly fishing, and gardening.

About Rescue Reston
Rescue Reston is a grass-roots organization working to defend Reston’s recreational green space at Hidden Creek Country Club and Reston National Golf Course from residential housing or any site development other than a golf course or comparable open space. The land use designation of both properties is private recreation use, more specifically to remain as golf courses. They serve as wildlife corridors and in conjunction with Reston Association’s walking paths along and crossing, are an amenity that can be enjoyed by all. To learn more or to donate, visit https://www.rescuereston.org, like us on https://www.facebook.com/rescuereston, and follow us on Twitter @RescueReston.

Rescue Reston asks that readers go to its website and subscribe to its newsletter.

Media Contact

Connie Hartke, Rescue Reston, +1 (571) 205-8874, info@rescuereston.org

Twitter, Facebook

SOURCE Rescue Reston

NATSO, Trucking Groups Urge Centers for Disease Control to Designate Truckstops as Mobile Vaccine Sites

ALEXANDRIA, Va., March 4, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — NATSO, representing the nation’s truckstops and travel plazas, along with a coalition representing trucking fleets and truck drivers in need, urged the Centers for Disease Control to designate truckstops and travel plazas as mobile vaccination sites to leverage existing truckstop locations for the distribution of vaccines to professional truck drivers and truckstop employees.

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The very nature of the trucking, truckstop and travel plaza industries allows an opportunity to have an immediate and meaningful impact on the distribution of vaccines to essential truckstop employees and truck drivers, the groups said in a letter to CDC Director Rochelle Walensky.

NATSO was joined in signing the letter by the American Trucking Associations, the Truckload Carriers Association, National Private Truck Council, National Association of Small Trucking Companies, St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund, and the Tank Truck Carriers.

«Truckstops and travel plazas are designed to cater to the unique needs of truck drivers who spend hundreds of days each year away from home,» said NATSO President and CEO Lisa Mullings. «Commercial drivers who are unable to access medical services in their home state or while driving a tractor trailer already are accustomed to accessing these service at truckstops and travel centers. Designating our network as mobile vaccination sites will ensure efficient vaccinations for the essential truck drivers who deliver America’s needs as well as the employees who serve them.»

Utilizing truckstops and travel plazas as mobile vaccination sites would alleviate significant challenges that truck drivers currently face in receiving an expedient vaccine. Many states, for example, currently require proof of residency to receive a vaccine.

Truck drivers should be allowed to receive a vaccine in a state other than that within which they reside due to their length of time on the road and away from home. Truck drivers also must be allowed to receive their second vaccination at a different location as it is improbable that they would have the ability to return to the primary vaccination site on a specific date or time.

«TCA continues to be awed by the dedication of the hardworking men and women in our industry who put their own health and wellbeing on the line to ensure the vaccine makes it safely to its final destination, all while wondering when they will be able to receive their own shots,» said John Lyboldt, President of the Truckload Carriers Association. «We stand ready to help in any way possible to alleviate this concern and urge the CDC to prioritize the trucking industry as the vaccination effort expands.»

«We’re grateful to be working with industry partners to ensure the trucking industry has access to the vaccine while out on the road,» said Dan Horvath, Vice President, Safety Policy, for the American Trucking Associations. «We cannot expect drivers—some of whom are actively transporting the vaccine—to return to their home domicile in order to receive the vaccine. Removing the red tape and using truckstops and travel plazas as mobile distribution sites exclusively for our industry will assist in making the vaccine available for those who choose to receive it.»

«Throughout the last year truck drivers have continued risking their lives to bring us food, supplies, medical equipment, PPE, and now, vaccines,» said Donna Kennedy, Executive Director of the St. Christopher Relief Fund. «It only seems right that our Highway Heroes, these essential workers, be prioritized with immunization against the virus. The St. Christopher Fund feels that it is vital for truck drivers to receive COVID-19 vaccines as soon as possible, and that they have easy access to the vaccines. To help with this, we are working with pharmacies and NATSO to make a nationwide plan to have vaccine clinics at truck stops.»

NATSO is the trade association of America’s travel plaza and truckstop industry. Founded in 1960, NATSO represents the industry on legislative and regulatory matters; serves as the official source of information on the diverse travel plaza and truckstop industry; provides education to its members; conducts an annual convention and trade show; and supports efforts to generally improve the business climate in which its members operate.

Contact:
Tiffany Wlazlowski Neuman
Vice President, Public Affairs
(703) 739-8578

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SOURCE NATSO, Inc.

Lear’s Pine Grove Facility Manufactures Over 4 Million Face Masks

SOUTHFIELD, Mich., March 4, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Lear Corporation (NYSE: LEA), a global automotive technology leader in Seating and E-Systems, today announced that it has manufactured and distributed more than 4 million face masks from its Pine Grove, Pa., facility since the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Lear installed mask-making equipment at the facility in 2020, in response to the COVID-19 crisis, with capacity available to make 600,000 units per week. From Pine Grove, Lear has distributed masks to distributors, schools, hospitals, civic departments, non-profits and company employees.

Given the aims of the recent Executive Order on Sustainable Public Health Supply Chain to build long-term capability in the United States to manufacture medical supplies for health care crises, the Pine Grove facility continues to be ready to supply domestic customers with locally made face masks.

«We continue to make available our manufacturing and technology resources to help address this health care crisis,» said Ray Scott, Lear President and CEO. «It’s important that we work together to help protect our communities, families and coworkers, and keep businesses operating.»

Using innovative cloth and fabric solutions from Lear’s Guilford Performance Textiles business, employees at the Pine Grove facility completed training to operate the mask-making machines and practice health protocols from Lear’s Safe Work Playbook to safely operate during the pandemic.

For their efforts, the plant was honored with Lear’s 2020 CEO Special Appreciation Award, the company’s highest award given to the plant or team that went above and beyond their day-to-day responsibilities to make a difference.

«The quick and safe implementation of face mask production capabilities at Pine Grove was made possible by the global Lear team’s procurement and engineering work and support from our union partners and the local government,» Scott said.

About Lear Corporation
Lear, a global automotive technology leader in Seating and E-Systems, enables superior in-vehicle experiences for consumers around the world. Our diverse team of talented employees in 38 countries is driven by a commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and sustainability. Lear is Making every drive better™ by providing the technology for safer, smarter, and more comfortable journeys. Lear, headquartered in Southfield, Michigan, serves every major automaker in the world and ranks 166 on the Fortune 500.

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SOURCE Lear Corporation

MoneyGram Advances Mobile Wallet Capabilities with Five-Year Extension to Ooredoo Qatar Partnership

Renewal enables MoneyGram and Ooredoo customers to continue to send money in near real-time to family and friends through Ooredoo Money Wallet

Ooredoo Qatar, the Company’s first fully digital partner in 2012, experienced impressive triple digit YoY transaction growth in 2020

DALLAS, March 4, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — MoneyGram International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MGI), a global leader in cross-border P2P payments and money transfers, today announced a five-year…

Renewal enables MoneyGram and Ooredoo customers to continue to send money in near real-time to family and friends through Ooredoo Money Wallet

Ooredoo Qatar, the Company’s first fully digital partner in 2012, experienced impressive triple digit YoY transaction growth in 2020

DALLAS, March 4, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — MoneyGram International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MGI), a global leader in cross-border P2P payments and money transfers, today announced a five-year extension to its partnership with Ooredoo Qatar, the leading telecommunications operator in Qatar. The renewal enables MoneyGram customers to continue to send money in near real-time to family and friends through Ooredoo Money Wallet, a virtual account that allows customers to easily deposit, access or withdraw money.

«We’re excited to extend our partnership with Ooredoo Qatar for another five years as we continue to build upon the strong momentum in our digital transformation,» said Alex Holmes, MoneyGram Chairman and CEO. «As our first fully digital partner back in 2012, Ooredoo has been a driving force in our shift to digital in the Middle Eastern market, and we look forward to seeing our partnership continue to flourish in the years to come.»

Ooredoo was recently awarded «MoneyGram Global Agent of the Year» due to the explosive triple digit year-over-year transaction growth it experienced in 2020 as well as its collaborative strategy to further improve customer experience. As consumer demand for account deposit services and digital options continues to increase, MoneyGram and Ooredoo Qatar are giving consumers the opportunity to send and receive money from the comfort of their own homes, which has been especially important in the last year.

«With Qatar being one of the largest outbound international remittance markets, our strategic partnership with MoneyGram continues to help connect friends and family around the world through fast, convenient and affordable money transfer services,» said Fatima Sultan Al Kuwari, Chief Consumer Officer at Ooredoo Qatar. «The length of the new contract term is a testament to the strength and ongoing success of this partnership, and we are excited about what this means for the future of digital remittances in the Middle East.»

About MoneyGram International, Inc.
MoneyGram is a global leader in cross-border P2P payments and money transfers. Its consumer-centric capabilities enable family and friends to quickly and affordably send money in more than 200 countries and territories, with 90 now digitally enabled.

MoneyGram leverages its modern, mobile, and API-driven platform and collaborates with the world’s leading brands to serve millions of people each year through both its walk-in business and its direct-to-consumer digital business.

With a strong culture of innovation and a relentless focus on utilizing technology to deliver the world’s best customer experience, MoneyGram is leading the evolution of digital P2P payments.

For more information, please visit MoneyGram.com and follow @MoneyGram.

About Ooredoo
Ooredoo is Qatar’s leading communications company, delivering mobile, fixed, broadband internet and corporate managed services tailored to the needs of consumers and businesses. As a community-focused company, Ooredoo is guided by its vision of enriching people’s lives and its belief that it can stimulate human growth by leveraging communications to help people achieve their full potential.

MoneyGram Media Contact
Stephen Reiff
media@moneygram.com

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1167116/MoneyGram_Phone_App.jpg
Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/600838/MoneyGram_International_Logo.jpg

SOURCE MoneyGram

Getech and IGA to Further the Use of Clean Geothermal Energy

HOUSTON, March 4, 2021 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Getech, a provider of data, knowledge and software to the energy industry, is pleased to announce that it will collaborate with the International Geothermal Association (IGA), to further the worldwide promotion of geothermal energy.

The IGA works to educate companies and governments around the world on the benefits and commercial potential of this clean energy source.

By working together, Getech and IGA believe that the cross-fertilisation of…

The IGA works to educate companies and governments around the world on the benefits and commercial potential of this clean energy source.

By working together, Getech and IGA believe that the cross-fertilisation of expertise, ideas and experience will help IGA advance its mission and lead to Getech developing new solutions for the expanding geothermal market.

Chris Jepps, Chief Operating Officer for Getech, explains how the collaboration with IGA will benefit his company: «We are excited by the opportunity to align our energy industry knowledge, geoscience expertise and location analytics with the work of the IGA. We see significant potential to develop new products and services that promote the benefits of geothermal technology, while helping geothermal to scale-up and play a material role in a low carbon future.»

Marit Brommer, Executive Director for IGA commented: «The IGA is delighted with Getech joining us as corporate member. A growing number of governments around the world are adopting geothermal into their roadmaps to deliver on a net-zero future energy mix. Understanding how to map, manage and produce the energy assets beneath our feet is vital. With Getech as corporate member the IGA is in a stronger position to amplify the message of how geothermal solutions can help governments reach a net-zero future and contribute to UN #SDG7: clean, affordable energy for all.»

Media Contact

Getech Marketing, marketing@getech.com, +44 2074519980, marketing@getech.com

SOURCE Getech

Diamond Resorts Offers Exclusive Golf Getaway Packages as Travelers Embrace the Socially Distant Sport

LAS VEGAS, March 4, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Diamond Resorts®, a global leader in the hospitality, vacation ownership and entertainment industries, announces exclusive Golf Getaway packages for travelers looking to hit the links during their next vacation. Known for hosting the LPGA’s most unique professional golf tournament, Diamond is bringing the action to their resorts across the country. Diamond members also have special access to exclusive events with golf stars, including Annika Sörenstam, Brian Gay, Nate Lashley, Blair O’Neal and Brittany Lincicome throughout the year.

The limited-time Golf Getaway package is available at Diamond-managed properties in Sedona (travel through Nov. 24, 2021) and Orlando (travel through June 30, 2021), including Mystic Dunes Resort & Golf Club, The Ridge on Sedona Golf Resort, Sedona Summit, Bell Rock Inn and Los Abrigados Resort & Spa. Guests can book this 3-night Golf Getaway package until April 30, 2021, for travel through the dates specified above. The package includes spacious accommodations at the resort of their choice and two rounds of golf. Each package will also include access to resort amenities, including pools and fitness centers at select properties. Diamond’s condo-style accommodations are perfectly suited for social distancing and feature multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, fully equipped kitchens, dining and living areas, home offices and in-suite laundry.

«It has been incredible to see the popularity of golf skyrocket in recent years, especially among younger generations,» said Mike Flaskey, CEO of Diamond Resorts. «We’ve seen this trend first-hand at our properties and with the Diamond Resorts Tournament of Champions. This year’s tournament was the most-watched season opener in 12 years and ratings have grown 10 percent year-over-year. Golf is the perfect way to stay active, get outdoors and have fun, and we are proud to offer once-in-a-lifetime experiences to novices and pros alike!»

According to the National Golf Foundation, rounds of golf played are up nearly 50 percent this winter compared to 2019, and up significantly over the entire year as players flock to the socially distant sport.

Known for providing its members with unforgettable entertainment experiences, Diamond Resorts has resumed private events under strict safety protocols. In January, the Diamond Resorts Tournament of Champions opened the LPGA season in Orlando. Throughout the year, Diamond members will have special access to reserve spots at upcoming events with Diamond Celebrity ambassadors like country music stars Jana Kramer, Colt Ford, Cole Swindell, and sports legends like Michael Waltrip and golf greats.

ABOUT DIAMOND RESORTS®
Diamond Resorts offers destinations, events and experiences to help members make a habit of breaking from the routine. From unforgettable getaways to exclusive concert series to VIP receptions and dinners, members turn to Diamond to recharge, reconnect and remind each other what matters most. Our focus on quality resorts, customer service and flexibility means members can return to a favorite resort, book a cruise to explore new countries or attend a once-in-a-lifetime event with the same level of confidence and anticipation. With access to a world of entertainment and activities, a Diamond membership ensures that people are always looking forward to vacation.

To learn more about Diamond Resorts, visit DiamondResorts.com or follow @DiamondResorts on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. To learn more about the Diamond Resorts Tournament of Champions, visit DiamondLPGA.com and follow @TheVacationDR on Twitter and Instagram. Join the social conversation with #DiamondLPGA.

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SOURCE Diamond Resorts

SLS And Rosewood Baha Mar Reopen Today In Nassau, The Bahamas, Completing The Return Of Baha Mar Resort Destination

NASSAU, Bahamas, March 4, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Baha Mar, the leading resort destination in The Bahamas, marks today the reopening of SLS Baha Mar and Rosewood Baha Mar, as well as the opening of Café Boulud, a new restaurant led by globally renowned Chef Daniel Boulud at Rosewood Baha Mar. In completing the resort destination’s reopening, Baha Mar celebrates a significant step forward towards economic recovery of The Bahamas. SLS and Rosewood join Grand Hyatt in offering their guests Baha Mar’s industry-leading Travel with Confidence promise, providing the ultimate in peace of mind for today’s global travelers.

Since reopening Grand Hyatt Baha Mar in December 2020, Baha Mar has been an industry leader in the Caribbean, offering some of the world’s most robust COVID-19 testing protocols to safeguard the health and well-being of resort guests and associates. Baha Mar has implemented a comprehensive COVID-19 testing strategy in partnership with Doctors Hospital Nassau, the premier healthcare institution in The Bahamas , and in February 2021, introduced the first-of-its-kind Travel with Confidence program, promising that should a guest test positive for COVID-19 at Baha Mar, the resort destination will provide private air travel to return the guest and their immediate family to the U.S., free of charge, or suite accommodations and a daily dining credit of $150 per person per day, for up to 14 days in quarantine. Since December 2020, Baha Mar has successfully facilitated over 42,000 COVID-19 rapid and PCR tests.

«We are thrilled to welcome back SLS and Rosewood Baha Mar, and celebrate the complete reopening of our resort destination,» said Graeme Davis, President, Baha Mar. «Each of our iconic world-class resorts brings rich personality, cherished experiences and dedicated service that together create the unforgettable atmosphere our Baha Mar guests seek out in The Bahamas. We look forward to continuing to lead The Caribbean in safe and responsible travel, as one integrated resort destination.»

To celebrate today’s highly-anticipated return, SLS Baha Mar introduces ‘Worth Your While,’ the ultimate Caribbean retreat experience that is ‘Worth Your While’ and more. The playful Bahamian getaway captures the best of Caribbean fun, including a private boat excursion to nearby Rose Island for a secluded beach afternoon, private cooking class inspired by the cuisine of The Bahamas, an exclusive Mini Golf Happy Hour, and an outdoor sip and paint experience at The Current Gallery & Art Center. SLS Baha Mar invites connoisseurs of global culture and style to indulge in a memorable escape paired with unparalleled service and amenities at one of the most beautiful locales in the world. To learn more and book your SLS Baha Mar stay today, see here.

Rosewood Baha Mar introduces Café Boulud The Bahamas, providing the glamour of traditional French cuisine combined with the warm hospitality of a neighborhood café, in an elegant Bahamian setting. The new restaurant joins Rosewood Baha Mar’s other popular dining offerings, including Mexican influenced Costa, relaxed beach-side restaurant Tingum, and glamorous Manor Bar. The menu at the new Bahamas restaurant will feature some of the classical French dishes synonymous with Chef Daniel, while showcasing local vegetables and seafood including rock lobster, salt fish, conch ceviche, red snapper and even cochon de lait. One of Chef Daniel’s signature dishes being featured is the Tournedos Rossini, which will be given a local interpretation using the freshest island ingredients.

To mark the resort’s reopening, Rosewood Baha Mar introduces MORE 4, a special offer including $100 credit per night for all reservations booked by March 31, 2021 for stay dates now through December 16, 2021.To learn more and book your stay at Rosewood Baha Mar today, see here.

Staying at Baha Mar: On-Site COVID-19 Protocols
Baha Mar’s ongoing Commitment to Your Wellbeing initiative provides guests with the latest in COVID-19 safety measures, which include on-site complimentary COVID-19 Rapid Antigen testing upon arrival and prior to departure to assist in guests’ compliance with return travel requirements of their country of origin. Furthermore, the Commitment to Your Wellbeing includes mandatory mask-wearing in public areas, social distancing and stringent cleanliness protocols that go above and beyond Baha Mar’s already rigorous cleaning standards, covering all brands across Grand Hyatt, SLS and Rosewood Baha Mar. Additionally, resort standards include weekly COVID-19 testing for associates, enhanced housekeeping and engineering services, heightened food safety and digital ordering, touchless payments, and technology methods that allow for an abundance of contactless experiences from the moment guests check in. For more information on Baha Mar’s Travel with Confidence program and the Commitment to Your Wellbeing, click here or visit bahamar.com.

Booking Baha Mar
In celebration of Baha Mar’s return, the resort destination has introduced «Spectacular Awaits,» available to book now at Grand Hyatt, SLS and Rosewood Baha Mar. The offer includes a complimentary fourth night after a three-night stay with free cancellation up to 24 hours before arrival. To book your «Spectacular Awaits» offer, visit BahaMar.com/offers today.

About Baha Mar
Baha Mar is a master planned $4.2 billion integrated resort development operated by Hong Kong-based conglomerate Chow Tai Fook Enterprises Limited (CTFE). The white sand beach destination includes three global brand operators – Grand Hyatt, SLS, and Rosewood – with over 2,300 rooms and 40 restaurants and lounges, the largest casino in the Caribbean, a state-of-the-art convention center, an 18-hole Jack Nicklaus Royal Blue Golf Course, the Caribbean’s first and only flagship ESPA spa, and over 30 luxury retail outlets. Baha Mar is a breathtaking location with dynamic programming, activities and guest offerings in one of the most beautiful places in the world – The Bahamas. For more information and reservations, visit www.bahamar.com

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SOURCE Baha Mar

New Austin Marriott Downtown Brings Inspiring Hospitality Experience To The Heart Of The Texas Capital

AUSTIN, March 4, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — The new Austin Marriott Downtown opens today, steps away from the most popular downtown tourist attractions, bars and restaurants. The hotel represents the newest design vision for Marriott Hotels, the signature brand of Marriott International, where spaces and amenities are crafted to allow guests to achieve moments of creative brilliance.

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The 31-story stylishly-designed tower fits seamlessly into the Austin skyline and speaks to the needs of today’s modern traveler, including hand-crafted food and beverage offerings, advanced health and safety features, and plenty of outdoor and socially distant options for connecting with others.

Guests will feel a sense of place the moment they walk in the door, whether they’re in town for a staycation, weekend getaway, business trip, meeting or convention. The hotel’s design is inspired by its home city, with limestone and Texas Cedar native to central Texas used throughout the hotel.

Guest rooms start on level seven to maximize views of Lady Bird Lake, the University of Texas campus, the city skyline, and in the distance, Texas Hill Country. Of the 613 guest rooms the hotel offers 25 luxurious suites. The reimagined rooms offer a spacious and elevated look complete with tailored solutions that are as inventive as its guests.

Based on consumer insights, locally-inspired accents offer a sense of place, and the work surface provides flexibility to freely move and use technology wherever the guest desires. Deluxe walk-in showers and spa-like lighting complete the relaxed experience throughout the room.

Hand-Crafted Food and Drinks

From top to bottom, Austin Marriott Downtown’s restaurants and bars are sure to be new local favorites.

Zanzibar. Seven stories up and a world away. Zanzibar (www.ZanzibarATX.com), a lush tropical rooftop terrace and pool oasis with stunning views of downtown, opened before the hotel in September 2020. It quickly became a popular spot among Austin locals and travelers alike, known as a socially distant outdoor rooftop where guests can escape the everyday with modern tiki cocktails. It features its own street-level elevator access on San Jacinto Boulevard to transport you seven stories up and a world away.

Zanzibar’s menu features modern tiki cocktails and island-inspired small plates. Specialty drinks are influenced with exotic spices grown right in Zanzibar, including cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla and clove. Zanzibar is known as ‘spice island’ and was once the largest exporter of spices in the world so the drink and food menus reflect Zanzibar’s unique sense of place and flavors.

Corinne Restaurant. Honest food + drink. Featuring one of the largest outdoor patios on West Cesar Chavez Street, Corinne (www.CorinneATX.com) is an honest and fresh neighborhood dining and cocktail spot serving authentic regional classics and American comfort food with an emphasis on signature rotisserie dishes. Featured dishes include Rotisserie Chicken dusted with mustard, thyme and lemon, Truffled Bucatini and Wagyu Beef Tartare. This is the second Corinne location following the first that opened in Denver in 2017.

The Lobbyist. The Lobbyist is not only a clever nod to Austin’s history as a capital city, but it will also provide locals and hotel guests alike with a place to pause and reset or reach for a nightcap as they plan their next adventure. With a grand staircase entry, The Lobbyist is a two-story cocktail bar with a mezzanine level overlooking the entire hotel lobby with floor-to-ceiling windows to the outside.

Loaf + Vine. Loaf + Vine is a modern urban grocer with a broad selection of quick and freshly made meals, grab-and-go options, fresh bakery goods, and cold drinks and coffee beverages. Available daily is everything from fine wines and craft beer to artisanal local favorites.

60,000 Square Feet of Meeting Flexibility

Meeting planners have a lot to celebrate about with Austin Marriott Downtown’s Next Gen Meeting Space that is tailored around any needs – from socially distanced setups to large gathering options. The hotel offers an 18,000 square foot exhibit hall filled with light thanks to a 204-foot wall of floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as two 14,000 square foot ballrooms. The hotel follows all of Marriott International’s Connect with Confidence best practices for meetings and events.

«This hotel is where Austin’s individuality meets the spirit of Texas,» said David Meisner, General Manager of the Austin Marriott Downtown. «With our state-of-the-art meetings facilities, wide selection of food and beverage outlets and thoughtfully-appointed guestrooms guests can reach their full creative potential. We are ready to be the first to safely welcome so many back to this great city as travel regains its footing.»

«At Marriott Hotels, we want our guests to experience forward-thinking, aesthetically pleasing spaces that help foster their inventive nature and allow them to get into their best headspace for success,» said Manny Rappenecker, Vice President, Marriott Hotels. «We are so excited to extend the footprint of our brand in Austin, a city known for its innovative and creative spirit. We hope guests at Austin Marriott Downtown will be able to free themselves of distractions when they step into our hotel, allowing them to focus solely on being the best they can be.»

Austin Marriott Downtown offers a completely touchless check-in and check-out experience, as well as elevator and in-room television controls using a personal smartphone. Austin Marriott Downtown is following Marriott International’s Commitment to Clean protocols, created in partnership with leading experts in food and water safety, hygiene and infection prevention, and hotel operations. These protocols include mandated mask wearing for all guests and associates within the hotel, and the use of disinfectants recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization to sanitize surfaces in the hotels.

The hotel is running a Grand Opening Offer where guests can enjoy 15 percent off their guest room and two complimentary celebratory cocktails through May 30. https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-deals/details/AUSMD-austin-marriott-downtown/OFF-10861

The Austin Marriott Downtown is owned and operated by White Lodging. White Lodging currently owns and/or manages more than 4,000 guest rooms and 10 restaurants and bars in downtown Austin, including the Moxy Austin-University, which opened in January 2021 as the only one of its brand in Texas.

About White Lodging
White Lodging, established in 1985, is one of the leading ownership, development, and management companies in America. An innovative trendsetter, the organization’s portfolio includes convention, urban lifestyle, and suburban select hotels with more than $1 billion in managed revenue. White Lodging operates approximately 90 premium hotels, 40 restaurants and 30 brands. Success knows no boundaries at White Lodging, where associates and leadership have consistently earned superior guest satisfaction scores, top market share and industry-leading profit margins while recruiting the best, brightest, and most passionate professionals in every discipline. White Lodging is a proud winner of the Gallup Great Workplace Award. For more information about White Lodging, visit www.whitelodging.com, or connect on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.

About Marriott Hotels

With over 580 hotels and resorts in over 60 countries and territories around the world, Marriott Hotels is evolving travel through every aspect of the guest’s stay, helping to relax, clear minds, stimulate new ideas and anticipate travelers’ needs, leaving them inspired to reach their full potential. Boldly transforming itself for mobile and global travelers who blend work and play, Marriott leads the industry with innovations, including the Greatroom lobby and Mobile Guest Services that elevate style & design and technology. To learn more, visit www.MarriottHotels.com. Stay connected to Marriott Hotels on Facebook, @marriott on Twitter and @marriotthotels on Instagram. Marriott Hotels is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit MarriottBonvoy.marriott.com.

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SOURCE Marriott International, Inc.

AEP Energy Partners Seeks Wind, Solar and Storage Projects in PJM

COLUMBUS, Ohio, March 4, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — AEP Energy Partners (AEPEP), a subsidiary of American Electric Power Company (Nasdaq: AEP), is seeking proposals for off-take from new solar, new/repowered wind facilities, and stand-alone or co-located Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) located in PJM.

For the PJM sited projects, the company is seeking renewable energy purchase agreements of 10, 12 or 15 years for solar, wind facilities (including incremental power from repowering),…

For the PJM sited projects, the company is seeking renewable energy purchase agreements of 10, 12 or 15 years for solar, wind facilities (including incremental power from repowering), and BESS that begin operation between 2021 and 2024.

AEPEP will use the contracted offtake to support the company’s growing retail, which includes the company’s Integrated Renewable Energy (IRE) solution, and wholesale loads in PJM.

Notice of intent to bid must be received by AEPEP by Wednesday, March 10, 2021. Proposal packages are due no later than 5 p.m. ET, Friday, March 26, 2021 and should be submitted by e-mail to beduckworth@aepes.com. Complete details about the Requests for Proposals are available at http://aep.com/rfp or by calling Ben Duckworth at (614) 583-7453.

American Electric Power, based in Columbus, Ohio, is focused on building a smarter energy infrastructure and delivering new technologies and custom energy solutions to our customers. AEP’s approximately 16,800 employees operate and maintain the nation’s largest electricity transmission system and more than 223,000 miles of distribution lines to efficiently deliver safe, reliable power to nearly 5.5 million regulated customers in 11 states. AEP also is one of the nation’s largest electricity producers with approximately 30,000 megawatts of diverse generating capacity, including more than 5,300 megawatts of renewable energy. AEP’s family of companies includes utilities AEP Ohio, AEP Texas, Appalachian Power (in Virginia and West Virginia), AEP Appalachian Power (in Tennessee), Indiana Michigan Power, Kentucky Power, Public Service Company of Oklahoma, and Southwestern Electric Power Company (in Arkansas, Louisiana, east Texas and the Texas Panhandle). AEP also owns AEP Energy, AEP Energy Partners, AEP OnSite Partners, and AEP Renewables, which provide innovative competitive energy solutions nationwide. For more information, visit aep.com.

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SOURCE American Electric Power