NEW YORK, N.Y., May 08, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- HitPaw, a leading innovator in multimedia software solutions, today announced the release of HitPaw VikPea V5.3.0, the latest update to its AI-powered video enhancement and generation platform. This release introduces a high-precision background removal model, a new video beauty module, upgraded AI generative models, and enhanced video generation with Kling 3.0 and Kling V3 Omni, enabling faster, smarter, and more accessible content creation for users of all levels.

WHAT'S NEW IN HITPAW VIKPEA V5.3.0

1 --- Video Beauty Module

The new Video Beauty module integrates face enhancement, effects, and makeup into a single, easy-to-use solution. With one-click optimization, users can quickly improve the look and feel of their videos.

Perfect for portrait footage and short-form content, this feature is designed for simplicity and efficiency. Even beginners can achieve polished, professional-looKling results without complex editing steps.

2 --- AI Generative Models (Natural & Sharpen)

HitPaw VikPea V5.3.0 introduces upgraded AI generative models with two modes: Natural and Sharpen. These models are built to enhance low-quality and older videos by restoring missing details and improving overall clarity.

They are especially useful for low-resolution content below 720P, as well as legacy formats such as film and VHS. Users can choose a natural restoration style or a sharper, more defined visual output depending on their preference.

3 --- Kling 3.0 & Kling V3 Omni Video Generator

The new generation engine includes Kling 3.0 and Kling V3 Omni, offering significant improvements in AI video creation.

Kling 3.0 focuses on smoother motion and more realistic dynamic performance, resulting in more lifelike generated videos. Kling V3 Omni expands creative possibilities with multimodal input support, allowing users to combine text, images, and audio to generate more complex and engaging content.

4 --- High-Precision Background Remover

The updated background remover features a high-precision model that enhances subject recognition and edge refinement. It cleanly separates subjects from complex backgrounds while preserving fine details like hair, limbs, and subtitles.

This makes it ideal for a wide range of creative scenarios, including video compositing, vlogs, family videos, and portrait background replacement. Even challenging scenes can be processed with clean, accurate results.

COMPATIBILITY AND PRICE

HitPaw VikPea is compatible with both Windows and macOS, ensuring accessibility for creators worldwide. Users can try the new features via a free trial, or purchase the full package starting from $43.19/month.

For more information: [OFFICIAL] HitPaw Video Enhancer - AI Video Enhancer: https://www.hitpaw.com/vikpea-video-enhancer.html

ABOUT HITPAW

HitPaw is a cutting-edge company redefining the AI editing field with innovation, creativity, efficiency, and simplicity as its core values. The company empowers millions of users worldwide with AI-powered tools for video, image, and audio editing, enhancing, and conversion. HitPaw's flagship products are trusted by content creators, marketers, and educators for their simplicity and cutting-edge technology.

To know more, visit: https://www.hitpaw.com/about.html and https://www.hitpaw.com/

Our Social Media

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQwRggaotgiMcPbiCOsJeBA

X/Twitter: https://x.com/HitPawofficial

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hitpawofficial/

News Source: HitPaw

Related link: https://www.hitpaw.com/

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source, who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/hitpaw-vikpea-v5-3-0-is-launched-with-video-beauty-new-ai-generative-models-and-next-gen-video-generators/

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., May 08, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- The Glancy Wine Education Foundation (GWEF), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to advancing diversity in the wine industry through scholarships for underserved professionals, today released its 2026 Impact Report. The report details the Foundation's cumulative work since its 2020 founding and introduces newly compiled data on the demographic communities GWEF serves.

Since inception, GWEF has awarded 303 scholarships and distributed more than $405,000 in grants directly to its wine school partners which include the founding San Francisco Wine School, the International Wine Center in New York and the American Wine School in the Midwest. The Foundation operates with a 9% overhead - less than half the average for U.S. nonprofits - thanks to an all-volunteer board of industry leaders. GWEF holds a Four-Star rating from Charity Navigator and a Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid.

Key Findings from the 2026 Impact Report

* Recipient demographics: 61% of GWEF scholarship recipients identify as non-Caucasian, 55.7% are female, 42.8% male, and 2% non-binary.

* Career outcomes: 67% of recipients have received a promotion following certification, and more than one-third are currently working full-time in the wine and hospitality industries.

* Earnings impact: Industry data shows that professional wine certification can yield 50-300% salary increases over a career, with sommeliers progressing from $45-60K at entry level to as much as $190K at the Master Sommelier level.

* Operational efficiency: Funds flow directly to wine school partners - no administrative layers between donors and scholarship recipients. The average GWEF scholarship is $1,477.

THE INDUSTRY GAP GWEF IS WORKING TO CLOSE

While Black, Indigenous, and People of Color make up 40% of the U.S. population, and more than half of Americans under 18 identify as a racial or ethnic minority, the wine industry remains markedly less diverse. Fewer than 1% of U.S. wineries are Black-owned (out of more than 11,000 total), fewer than 1% of winery owners or head winemakers are people of color, and roughly 2% of Black Americans hold leadership roles in wine, according to research from the Association of African American Vintners and Pronghorn Research. Hispanic/Latino professionals - who represent 18.7% of the U.S. population - hold just 4% of Fortune 500 executive officer roles, with comparable underrepresentation across wine. Only 14% of California bonded wineries have women as lead winemakers.

NEW DATA: THE AAPI OPPORTUNITY IN WINE

The 2026 report introduces newly gathered insights on the Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) wine consumer, according to the Asian Wine Association of America (AWAA). AAPI Americans represent 6.3% of the U.S. population but currently account for only 5% of wine consumption, even as roughly 50% of the AAPI population sits within the Millennial and Gen-X cohorts, with 39% drinking wine weekly, nearly on par with other demographics. Yet only 4% of wine industry executives identify as Asian, even as Asian markets are the fastest-growing demographic for WSET Global certification worldwide.

A MESSAGE FROM THE FOUNDATION PRESIDENT

"The world of wine is a celebration of diversity, and yet the industry itself has been slow to reflect that truth," said Ana Keller, GWEF Foundation President. "At a moment when wine is competing harder than ever for the attention of younger, more diverse consumers, the case for inclusion has never been more urgent. The professionals who understand those communities, who come from them, are exactly who this industry needs."

Keller added: "Since 2020, we have funded more than 303 scholarships, and none of it happens without people who believe that those who will shape this industry's future deserve a real chance to get there. Every donation, at any level, goes directly to a scholarship and to someone whose career, and whose life, will be changed by it."

IN THE WORDS OF RECIPIENTS

"GWEF made it possible for me to receive the wine training and education I needed to become a Sommelier in a Michelin-starred restaurant," said Lily Yu, 2020 GWEF scholarship recipient and Private Event Sommelier, formerly of the sommelier team at The Modern in New York City.

"Thanks to GWEF's assistance and what I learned in the WSET 3, I took over as head sommelier and was soon promoted to Wine Director. I also am a winemaker now," said Oceano Ordonez, 2021, 2023 and 2024 GWEF scholarship recipient, Wine Director at Donato Enoteca, and GWEF Emeritus Board Member.

"GWEF has been a transformative experience that has profoundly impacted my personal and professional growth. Through GWEF I have gained networking opportunities resulting in great relationships and collaborations within the wine industry," said Cristian Medina, 2022 and 2024 GWEF scholarship recipient and Sommelier at Shelby's in Atherton, California.

HOW TO SUPPORT THE MISSION

GWEF welcomes contributions at every level - every dollar donated goes directly to scholarship funding. Corporate sponsorship tiers and named scholarship opportunities are also available, including scholarships established in honor or memory of industry colleagues. Wine schools, industry organizations, and nonprofit partners interested in collaboration are also encouraged to connect.

The full 2026 Impact Report is here (PDF): https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f4983f8f6a5da1a611120b6/t/69f4dfdf91ec915960223769/1777655775460/GWEF+2026+Impact+Report.pdf

To donate, sponsor, or partner, visit https://www.glancywineeducationfoundation.org/.

ABOUT THE GLANCY WINE EDUCATION FOUNDATION

The Glancy Wine Education Foundation is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization established in 2020 and based in San Francisco, partnering nationally with three schools, the San Francisco Wine School, the International Wine Center and the American Wine School. GWEF is dedicated to assisting underserved communities with scholarships to further their professional wine education, with the goal of raising their earning power and increasing diversity in the wine industry. The Foundation holds a Four-Star Charity Navigator rating and Candid Platinum Seal of Transparency. Federal Tax ID #85-2516009. Learn more at https://www.glancywineeducationfoundation.org/ or follow @glancywineeducationfoundation on Instagram.

News Source: Glancy Wine Education Foundation

Related link: https://www.glancywineeducationfoundation.org/

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source, who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/glancy-wine-education-foundation-releases-2026-impact-report-marking-six-years-of-progress-in-diversifying-the-wine-industry/

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., May 08, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Dunkman, the apparel and brand platform founded by basketball icon Shaquille O'Neal, has designed and delivered a new generation of uniforms for the UPSHOT League as the league prepares for its inaugural season tipping off May 15.

Through this partnership, Dunkman's supply of all on-court uniforms, shoes and gear bring a bold, modern aesthetic and performance-driven innovation to a league built around expanding access and opportunity for elite women's basketball players.

"It's about time women's basketball is being recognized," said O'Neal. "I'm a big fan-these players can really play. There are more great players than there are opportunities, and the UPSHOT League, which tips off on the 15th, is creating those opportunities."

The UPSHOT League enters the market at a pivotal moment for the sport, with rising fan engagement and a deep talent pipeline seeking additional professional platforms. The partnership with Dunkman underscores a shared commitment to elevating the visibility, professionalism, and cultural impact of the women's game.

"Women's basketball is in an era of celebration with the advocates and allies who are joining the fold," said Donna Orender, Co-Founder and Commissioner of the UPSHOT League. "The UPSHOT League is rooted in opportunity-opportunity for players, coaches, markets, and partners to grow the game in new ways. It's energy-infusing to feel all of basketball and all basketball fans lean into that spirit. Partnerships like this with Dunkman help bring that vision to life in real ways on and off the court."

Dunkman's involvement extends beyond uniforms, aligning with the league's broader mission to create a dynamic, culturally relevant platform that resonates with both traditional basketball audiences and new fans alike.

The UPSHOT League's inaugural season tips off May 15, 2026, with teams in Jacksonville (Waves), Charlotte (Crown), Savannah (Steel) and Greensboro (Groove). Expansion teams for next season have already been announced in Baltimore and Nashville.

ABOUT THE UPSHOT LEAGUE

The UPSHOT League, co-founded by Donna Orender and Zawyer Sports CEO, Andy Kaufmann, is a premier women's professional basketball league built on elite competition, player opportunity, and community connection. With a foundation rooted in high-level talent and global experience, the league aims to redefine the professional landscape while expanding opportunities for women's basketball in the United States. https://upshotleague.com/

News Source: The UPSHOT League

Related link: https://upshotleague.com/

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source, who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/dunkman-founded-by-shaquille-oneal-provides-gear-and-uniforms-for-the-upshot-league-ahead-of-inaugural-season-launch/

LA VERNE, Calif., May 07, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Hillcrest, a senior living community in La Verne, is expanding and connecting its campus with the addition of the Gateway Project. The project includes a walkway connecting its east and west campuses, a new neighborhood of single-family homes, and the renovation of three existing homes.

The additions are designed to enhance everyday life in the community by adding direct pedestrian access between dining, wellness, and residential areas at Hillcrest. The zoning changes were unanimously approved by the La Verne City Council in March and mark the culmination of 80 years of planning and development to geographically unify the 50-acre campus.

"This project has been part of Hillcrest's long-term planning and marks a key milestone in our long-term vision of community living," said Shirley Turner, Director of Sales and Marketing at Hillcrest. "It brings both sides of our campus together and creates a stronger sense of connection for residents, thus becoming a Gateway to each other."

As the senior housing industry prepares to handle the Silver Tsunami, with an estimated 10,000 baby boomers retiring daily, Hillcrest is experiencing increasing demand for independent living options in the San Gabriel Valley. With over 20 acres of vacant property, the community is well-positioned for growth and relevance as older adults seek retirement housing options.

The Gateway neighborhood will feature seven single-family homes designed for residents who want a low-maintenance lifestyle with access to on-campus services and independent living. Each residence will offer approximately 1,600 square feet, two-car garages, and modern layouts, including open-concept kitchens and single-level floor plans.

"The Gateway homes are ideally located within the Hillcrest community, central to the fitness center and our Meeting House. If you're downsizing from a considerably larger home but are still looking for active, vibrant community living, this is the place for you," said Turner.

The project builds on the success of Hillcrest's Hawthorne neighborhood and reflects growing demand for residential living options that blend privacy with access to dining and wellness programs. Residents will have full access to Hillcrest's suite of amenities, wellness programs, and continuum-of-care services.

Construction is expected to be completed between fall and winter 2027.

ABOUT HILLCREST

Hillcrest is an upscale 501(c)(3) nonprofit continuing care retirement community (CCRC) centrally located in the San Gabriel Valley, less than 30 minutes from Los Angeles, Anaheim, Pasadena, and San Bernardino and at the gateway to the Inland Empire. Located in a quiet residential neighborhood just off Foothill Boulevard in La Verne, California, Hillcrest offers independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing with an emphasis on wellness and health. For more information, visit https://www.livingathillcrest.org/.

News Source: Hillcrest

Related link: https://liveathillcrest.org/

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source, who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/hillcrest-expands-and-connects-community-living-in-la-verne-with-gateway-neighborhood-project-adding-seven-new-homes/

LONG BEACH ISLAND, N.J., May 07, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Save Long Beach Island (Save LBI), a nonprofit, non-partisan organization dedicated to protecting our oceans from needless industrialization, along with other concerned parties, filed suit against the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to compel the agency to act on a 2025 petition intended to protect the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale (NARW).

With a population that has dwindled dramatically in recent years, the magnificent right whale is inching perilously close to extinction as it faces a number of ongoing threats. Save LBI filed the petition a year ago on March 31, 2025 requesting NOAA to designate the whale's primary historic migration corridor a "critical habitat" under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The corridor identified in the Petition [media.fisheries.noaa.gov/2025-05/NARW-Petition-March-31-2025-508-.pdf] is based on the observation of historical whale migration and the location of its prey.

Notwithstanding multiple follow-up letters, NOAA has not acted on the request, despite the mandated 90-day deadline for doing so. "The deadline for response from the Agency has long since passed so we must go to court," said Thomas Stavola, Jr., attorney handling the action. "This lawsuit compels NOAA to fulfill its legal duty to consider Save Long Beach Island's critical habitat petition."

The primary historic migration corridor designation would require federal agencies to ensure that actions they authorize, fund, or carry out are not likely to destroy or adversely modify the corridor, which is essential to the whale's migration and survival. It would, in effect, create a vital "missing link" between critical habitats NOAA designated in 1994, and later expanded, to protect the right whale's feeding grounds off the coast of Maine (and New England) and its calving and nursery grounds off the coast of Georgia and South Carolina. No habitat protections currently exist between these areas in the far north and south, putting the whale's survival at great risk.

"Only about 380 North Atlantic right whales are believed to remain, which means every preventable impact matters," explained Denise Boccia, Save LBI Board Member and the primary architect of the petition. "Protecting their connected and continuous primary migration corridor as critical habitat is the most direct, science-based tool we have to keep this species from sliding into extinction."

WHAT A CRITICAL HABITAT DESIGNATION WOULD DO

If NOAA designates the NARW's primary historic migration corridor as critical habitat, federal agencies would be required to:

* Evaluate impacts of major projects-such as large-scale offshore industrial development-on the miles-wide corridor itself.

* Avoid actions that are likely to destroy or appreciably degrade the whale's migratory corridor, including activities that create wide-ranging elevated levels of underwater noise across the corridor or appreciably alter the availability of its prey.

A critical habitat designation would deter wind-energy development in lease areas-such as the Atlantic Shores South and North areas off the coast of southern New Jersey-that were unwisely positioned in the whale's primary migration corridor. Save LBI's detailed analysis of operational noise from wind-energy complexes (summarized in the Addendum below) reveals that noise from operating wind turbines extends for miles where it remains above levels that disturb the whale's behavior. "Consequently, those projects could adversely and appreciably affect the miles-wide migration corridor itself and not only seriously impair, but potentially block, the whale's essential annual migration," said Save LBI President Bob Stern, a Ph.D. scientist and former manager of the Office of National Environmental Policy Act Affairs for the U.S. Department of Energy.

WHAT THE DESIGNATION WOULD NOT DO

Despite what NOAA has said regarding prior, similar designations, a critical habitat designation for the NARW migration corridor would not:

* Regulate or restrict vessel traffic: The areas NOAA designates for lower vessel speeds are governed through separate authorities and processes and based on the presence of whales. Whether those areas are labeled critical habitat or not has no bearing on those restrictions.

* Regulate or restrict commercial or recreational fishing: The designation has no effect on private or state-sanctioned fishing. Federal fishing gear regulations and related measures are governed through separate authorities and processes based on perceived impacts to the whale itself. Any additional measures based on the critical habitat designation would require a separate determination that fishing is likely to destroy or adversely and appreciably modify the miles-wide migration corridor itself, which is not a plausible argument.

ABOUT SAVE LONG BEACH ISLAND, INC.

Save Long Beach Island, Inc. (Save LBI) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to protecting the marine environment, coastal ecosystems, and quality of life for residents and visitors of Long Beach Island and the surrounding region. The organization advocates for science-based, balanced policies that safeguard wildlife, preserve local economies, and promote responsible stewardship of ocean resources. Visit SaveLBI.org for more information.

Contact: https://www.savelbi.org/contact

For more information click here: https://www.savelbi.org

--ADDENDUM: SAVE LBI ESTIMATED NOISE RANGES--

Summary: The Extent of Behavior-Disturbing Noise from Offshore Wind Energy Complexes

Save LBI's calculations of the noise from wind-turbine complexes proposed in the New York Bight (an area that extends from the southern tip of Cape May, New Jersey, to the southeastern coast of New York's Long Island) showed that sound levels exceeding the whale's behavioral disturbance threshold, represented by the red lines in the illustration, extend through the wind complex and for miles from its perimeter (the green line represents all known migration paths, which is wider than the closer-to-shore primary historic migration corridor identified in the petition).

Some straight-forward math leads to the same conclusion. During wind-turbine construction, noise source levels from pile driving are on the order of 240 decibels (dB). A significant reduction of about 80 dB is necessary to reduce those noise levels to NOAA's "impulsive-noise behavioral disturbance threshold" of 160 dB. For turbine operation, the aggregate noise source level from a typical complex is about 200 dB, which would also have to be reduced by around 80 dB to meet NOAA's lower "continuous-noise behavioral disturbance threshold" of 120 dB.

Because both cases require essentially the same 80 dB reduction in noise level, the distances over which sound must travel to drop to acceptable behavioral thresholds is similar. Numerous acoustic analyses conducted by the wind-energy projects have shown that pile-driving noise remains above the acceptable impulsive noise levels for a number of miles beyond the source. So those same multiple-mile ranges are needed to reduce the continuous operational noise generated by the wind complex to the acceptable continuous level, as shown by the red lines in the illustration. Such long distances of elevated noise level create a noise barrier to migration and degrade the viability of the migration corridor itself.

News Source: Save Long Beach Island (Save LBI)

Related link: https://www.savelbi.org/

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source, who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/new-jerseys-save-long-beach-island-sues-noaa-for-failure-to-protect-migration-corridor-of-critically-endangered-north-atlantic-right-whale/

BALTIMORE, Md., May 07, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- AgingIN, a national leader advancing innovation in eldercare, has opened registration for its highly anticipated annual conference, "Peak Purpose: Redefining How We Live and Age." The event will explore the impact of how people-first living improves care and strengthens culture while helping organizations perform better.

Designed for frontline care team members to executives across independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, and PACE programs, the AgingIN 2026 conference includes practical learning and actionable strategies that can be applied immediately.

"Many of us got started in aging services because we care. Learning more person-centered strategies will help us lead more clearly, and be more aligned and better equipped to put people, not systems, at the center of our care," said Susan Ryan, AgingIN CEO.

This year's pre-conference experience, "The Longevity Summit: Living Longer, Living Better," is headlined by keynote speaker Dr. Shelly Chadha of the World Health Organization, who will spotlight advancements and collaborative solutions to close the gap between healthspan and lifespan.

Throughout the summit, thought leaders, practitioners, and researchers will explore transformative approaches to well-being, integrated care models, and the role of innovation in extending quality of life for aging populations.

AgingIN encourages members of the media to register for complimentary access to key sessions, speakers, and insights shaping the future of aging services.

Registration is now open. To learn more and secure your spot, visit: https://aginginnovation.org/events/annual-conference/.

Additional details, including the conference microsite and full agenda, will be released soon.

ABOUT AGINGIN

AgingIN is a global nonprofit dedicated to being the catalyst for person-directed living and empowered cultures in the community of one's choice. Their consulting, technical assistance, and education services empower aging services providers to implement lasting change and transformation that is meaningful and measurable. Formerly known as the Center for Innovation, AgingIN was born from the merging of two of the most influential voices in eldercare transformation: Pioneer Network and THE GREEN HOUSE® Project. For more information, visit: https://aginginnovation.org/.

News Source: AgingIN

Related link: https://aginginnovation.org/

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source, who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/agingin-opens-registration-for-longevity-pre-summit-and-2026-conference-peak-purpose-redefining-how-we-live-and-age/

KANSAS CITY, Mo., May 07, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Author and entrepreneur Miles Hillmann announces the release of his new book, "The Super Seeders: How Plant Scientists Are Racing to Protect Global Food Security Amid Climate Change and Disease" (ISBN: 978-1834188355, released May 2, 2026 by Tellwell Publishing), a deeply researched and compelling account of the global scientific effort to safeguard the world's food supply through advances in plant genetics, breeding, and genomic science.

In "The Super Seeders: How Plant Scientists Are Racing to Protect Global Food Security Amid Climate Change and Disease," Hillmann draws on first-hand accounts from scientists, breeders, and gene bank curators working at the forefront of agricultural innovation. The book traces the interconnected systems that underpin modern food security-from global gene banks preserving rare crop diversity, to international research centres and treaties enabling the exchange of genetic material, to the plant breeders translating scientific breakthroughs into resilient, high-yielding crops for farmers worldwide.

At the heart of the book is a pressing global challenge: climate change, population growth, emerging crop diseases, and geopolitical instability are placing unprecedented strain on global food systems. As noted by World Food Prize Laureate Dr. Geoff Hawtin OBE, over 2 billion people currently lack access to sufficient and nutritious food, making agricultural innovation more urgent than ever.

Hillmann's work highlights how plant geneticists are using rapidly advancing genomic technologies to unlock hidden traits within crops-developing varieties that are more drought-tolerant, disease-resistant, and productive. The book also explores how innovations from the Green Revolution to modern gene editing have shaped today's agricultural landscape, while acknowledging that crop yield gains are now plateauing and new scientific approaches are essential.

A central question raised throughout the book is whether this genetic and technological revolution in agriculture will reach the 70 percent of Africans who still depend on subsistence farming-an issue that may determine the future of global food security itself.

"This book is based on the voices and experiences of the scientists, curators, and breeders who are quietly reshaping agriculture from the ground up," said Hillmann. "Their work is not theoretical-it is about ensuring that people everywhere can continue to eat in a changing and uncertain world."

Endorsements highlight the book's scientific clarity and global relevance. Dr. Geoff Hawtin OBE describes it as a "captivating book" that both explains the science behind critical agricultural innovations and celebrates the people driving them forward. Plant molecular biologist Professor Mark Guiltinan praises the book as "a timely, deeply researched, and compellingly readable account" that connects the molecular science of plant genetics with the human systems required to turn innovation into impact.

Garry Kuhn, agronomy and fertilizer industry specialist, reflects on the evolution of modern agriculture, noting that while conventional plant breeding drove the Green Revolution, today's yield plateaus and disease pressures require continued innovation in plant genetics and crop science.

About the Author

Miles Hillmann is a lifelong entrepreneur whose career bridges scientific innovation and applied industrial development. His early work in agricultural research in Uganda during the final days of the Idi Amin era, and later experience in regions facing food insecurity, shaped his long-standing interest in food systems and agricultural resilience. He has since founded and led companies in novel feed ingredients, organic materials analysis, oil and chemical spill control, avian and swine flu prevention and flood control systems. "The Super Seeders" draws together decades of field experience and scientific engagement, telling the story of the global plant genetics revolution through the voices of those driving it.

Book Information

Email Contact: Authorpress@tellwell.ca

Title: "The Super Seeders: How Plant Scientists Are Racing to Protect Global Food Security Amid Climate Change and Disease"

Author: Miles Hillmann

Website: https://superseeders.co.uk/

Buy Link: https://amazon.com/dp/1834188350

Genre: Nonfiction / Science / Agriculture / Food Security

Format: Paperback / Hardcover / eBook

ISBN: 9781834188355

Publication Date: 2026

News Source: Tellwell Publishing

Related link: https://www.tellwellpublishing.com/

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source, who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/new-book-the-super-seeders-how-plant-scientists-are-racing-to-protect-global-food-security-amid-climate-change-and-disease-explores-the-hidden-global-revolution-in-food-security/

TORRANCE, Calif., May 07, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- DocMagic, Inc. (DocMagic®) announced today that it has received two new certifications from MISMO®, the Mortgage Industry Standards Maintenance Organization. MISMO's eVault System Certification covers SmartSAFE®, DocMagic's core eVault for managing eNote workflows and MERS® eRegistry activity, and SmartSAFE XL™, an API-first eVault designed for enterprise environments that require flexible deployments and support for a broader range of digital assets. MISMO's SMART Doc® Validation Rules Certification confirms that DocMagic's technology can verify conformance to MISMO SMART Doc V1.02 standards prior to vaulting and across integrated workflows.

MISMO's technology certifications signify that providers meet rigorous criteria for data exchange, transaction reliability and interoperability across the mortgage ecosystem. DocMagic's SmartSAFE and SmartSAFE XL eVaults underwent comprehensive testing, with 192 interdependent test cases and supporting compliance artifacts evaluated for each solution.

"With MISMO's eVault certifications, DocMagic can help lenders accelerate integration timelines, reduce testing cycles and bring eNote capabilities to market with greater speed and certainty," said MISMO Vice President of Programs and Operations Jonathan Kearns. "At MISMO, we recognize that trust in both the integration and ongoing use of an eVault is critical to advancing the digital mortgage ecosystem. Our eVault certification program is designed to remove uncertainty by validating that providers are implementing MISMO standards correctly, giving lenders confidence in how electronic notes are stored, managed and transferred."

"We chose to put both our SmartSAFE eVaults through MISMO's rigorous certification process because we know how important it is for eNote interoperability to extend across different architectures and operating models," said DocMagic Chief eServices Executive Brian D. Pannell. A Certified MISMO Standards Professional (CMSP®), Pannell is a member of MISMO's Residential Standards governance committee and vice chair of its Digital Interoperability community of practice. "Whether workflows are UI-guided or API-driven, consistent validation and management of digital assets enables lenders, investors and partners to transact with speed, efficiency and confidence."

DocMagic previously received MISMO's eClosing System Certification for its Total eClose™ solution and MISMO's Remote Online Notarization (RON) Certification for its proprietary RON technology, both in 2022. Together with its newly earned eVault System and SMART Doc Validation Rules certifications, these achievements reflect DocMagic's continued alignment with MISMO standards across the digital mortgage lifecycle.

For a list of DocMagic's current MISMO certifications, visit https://www.mismo.org/detail-pages/vendor/docmagic. For more information about DocMagic's SmartSAFE eVault technology and full suite of eClosing solutions, visit www.docmagic.com.

About DocMagic:

DocMagic® provides a complete digital mortgage platform for the mortgage industry, delivering proprietary document generation, automated compliance, eSignature, eClosing, eNotarization, eNote and eVault technology in one unified solution. Built on nearly 40 years of innovation, DocMagic helps lenders, settlement service providers and investors move loans from application through post-closing with greater speed, accuracy and confidence. AI deepens that foundation through the company's Intelligent Agentic Network. For more information, visit www.docmagic.com.

About MISMO:

MISMO® is the standards development body for the mortgage industry. MISMO developed a common language for exchanging information for the mortgage finance industry. Today, MISMO standards are accepted and deployed by every type of entity involved in creating mortgages, and they are required by most regulators, housing agencies and the GSEs that participate in the industry. MISMO's work to solve key industry challenges is made possible through the support of its members, champions, sponsors and lenders (via the Innovation Investment Fund). To learn more about MISMO and opportunities to participate, visit MISMO.org.

News Source: DocMagic, Inc.

Related link: https://www.docmagic.com/

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source, who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/mismo-awards-evault-system-certification-to-docmagics-smartsafe-evaults/

NOVI, Mich., May 07, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Vice Capital Markets, a leading mortgage hedge advisory firm for independent lenders, banks and credit unions, today announced the public release of the Vice Capital Par Note Rate, a proprietary daily mortgage rate benchmark designed to provide a distinct, market-based view of mortgage pricing. Available via an online tracker, the benchmark provides lenders, analysts and other market participants with daily data, long-term trend analysis and custom charting dating back to 2008.

Calculated daily using Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac mortgage-backed security prices across the coupon stack, plus standard base guaranty fees and servicing, the Vice Capital Par Note Rate reflects the note rate at which a 30-year, fixed-rate loan could be sold at par into the agency market while retaining servicing. The benchmark is intended to complement other widely referenced mortgage rate measures by offering an additional perspective grounded in secondary market pricing rather than borrower-specific transaction characteristics, such as discount points, lender credits and loan-level pricing adjustments.

"Mortgage rate metrics can serve different purposes depending on what users are trying to measure," said Chris Bennett, chairman at Vice Capital Markets. "Many widely followed figures provide valuable insight into borrower activity and market sentiment. The Vice Capital Par Note Rate is designed to complement those views by offering a consistent, market-based benchmark for analyzing mortgage rate movement over time."

While Vice Capital Markets has used the par note rate internally in its modeling for decades, the company is now making the data publicly available to support more informed market analysis across the mortgage industry. Through the tracker, users can review daily weighted averages, analyze long-term trends and create custom charts across historical time periods.

"By making this data publicly available, we're giving the industry another lens through which to evaluate mortgage rate movement," said Troy Baars, president at Vice Capital Markets. "We believe the Vice Capital Par Note Rate will serve as a valuable benchmark for lenders, analysts and other market participants seeking deeper insight into market trends over time."

To access the online tracker, visit https://vicecapitalmarkets.com/par-note-rate-historical-tracker/.

Sign up to receive weekly updates on the Vice Capital Par Note Rate at https://vicecapitalmarkets.com/subscribe-vcm-par-note-rate-updates/.

About Vice Capital Markets

Since 2001, Vice Capital Markets has expertly navigated interest rate risk and driven profitability on over $1 trillion in MBS trades and mortgage-related transactions for a diverse range of financial institutions. Utilizing proprietary risk-management models and an advanced investor and agency platform, Vice Capital has enabled clients to enhance their secondary market strategies and achieve optimal sales gains.

The company's Vice Execution Portal(tm) (ViceEx) is an all-inclusive, whole-loan trading platform that enables lenders and secondary market managers to seamlessly send and receive aggregator bulk bids, compare agency executions with customizable retained or co-issue servicing values while guaranteeing the best execution that might otherwise be missed in a manual process.

With traders averaging over a decade of experience, Vice Capital brings the expertise necessary to tackle market challenges and consistently deliver secure and effective profit growth for its clients. For further information, visit https://www.vicecapitalmarkets.com or call (248) 869-8100.

News Source: Vice Capital Markets

Related link: https://www.vicecapitalmarkets.com/

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source, who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/vice-capital-markets-introduces-agency-market-based-interest-rate-benchmark-designed-to-expand-insight-into-mortgage-pricing/

DENVER, Colo., May 06, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- ACES Quality Management® (ACES), a leading provider of enterprise quality management and control software for the financial services industry, announced today that Romina Cusenza, vice president of marketing, has been named a 2026 Trailblazers in Sales, Marketing and PR award winner by Progress in Lending. The award recognizes mortgage industry professionals who have made a meaningful positive impact on their company and the broader industry through sales, marketing and public relations initiatives.

"Romina's leadership has been instrumental in shaping how the market understands and engages with ACES," said Trevor Gauthier, CEO of ACES Quality Management. "Her ability to translate complex technology into clear, compelling business outcomes has strengthened our brand, expanded our reach and reinforced ACES' position as a trusted partner to lenders navigating a challenging environment. This recognition is a testament to the real impact her work has had on our company and on the industry."

As vice president of marketing, Cusenza led ACES' go-to-market and communications strategy through one of the most challenging mortgage environments in recent history, driving a 45% increase in website visits and a 38% increase in direct traffic year over year. Key initiatives included the launch of ACES Intelligence®, the mortgage industry's first AI-powered quality control engine, and ACES ENGAGE 2025, the company's annual conference, where she introduced the "I Stand for Quality" movement.

"I believe the most powerful thing a marketing team can do is create content that genuinely helps people do their jobs better," said Cusenza. "That's been our north star at ACES, producing thought leadership that cuts through the noise, connects complex compliance concepts to real lender challenges, and contributes something meaningful to the industry conversation. This recognition reflects the hard work of an exceptional team, and it pushes us to keep raising that standard."

The Progress in Lending Trailblazers in Sales, Marketing and PR award honors mortgage industry professionals who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in driving company growth and advancing the industry through innovative sales, marketing and public relations efforts. A full list of the 2026 Trailblazers award winners can be found at mymortgagemindset.com/the-2026-trailblazers-award-winners-are/.

About ACES Quality Management

ACES Quality Management is the leading provider of enterprise quality management and control software for the financial services industry. The nation's most prominent lenders, servicers and financial institutions rely on ACES Quality Management & Control® Software to improve audit throughput and quality while controlling costs, including:

Over 70% of the top 20 independent mortgage lenders;

* 7 of the top 10 loan servicers;

* 14 of the top 30 banks; and

* 7 of the top 15 credit unions in the United States.

ACES also supports multiple state housing authorities and mortgage insurers, a government-sponsored enterprise (GSE), along with dozens of third-party QC and compliance service providers that collectively serve hundreds of financial institutions.

Unlike other quality control platforms, ACES Flexible Audit Technology® enables independent mortgage lenders and financial institutions to easily manage and customize the system to their specific needs without relying on IT or outside resources. With ACES' AI-powered capabilities, audit teams can translate complexity into clear insights and accelerate performance.

Using a customer-centric approach, ACES clients get responsive support and access to our experts to maximize their investment. For more information, visit acesquality.com or call 1-800-858-1598.

News Source: ACES Quality Management

Related link: https://www.acesquality.com/

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source, who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/aces-quality-management-vice-president-of-marketing-romina-cusenza-named-2026-progress-in-lending-trailblazers-in-sales-marketing-and-pr-award-winner/

CHICAGO, Ill., May 06, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Health writer DéShond G Barnes has launched a new book "Counteract the Junk: How Research Shows That Fiber Can Counteract the Physiological Effects of Saturated Fat, Calories and Other Junk Food Components - A Flexible Anti-Diet Approach to Staying Healthy" (ISBN: 979-8245516394).

Research in health and medicine published in scientific journals has shown over time that a sufficient daily recommended intake of fiber, antioxidants and other essential nutrients from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans and other health foods - and to a lesser extent from dietary supplements - can mitigate the health risks associated with junk food by counteracting the physiological effects of saturated fat, calories and other potentially harmful components and effects of junk food.

This means that healthy individuals can now maintain healthy cholesterol and body weight, and reduce their risk of chronic diseases with less restriction and greater dietary flexibility - including the freedom to include budget-friendly, longer-lasting ultra-processed foods in their daily diets. These discoveries are uncovered in "Counteract the Junk." Such discoveries include the following:

CHOLESTEROL AND WEIGHT CONTROL

High-fat junk foods such as cake, ice cream, doughnuts, cookies and pies produce cholesterol-related acids that can clog arteries and raise cholesterol levels over time - opening the door to heart disease. Scientists have identified a special type of soluble fiber found in whole grain oats known as beta glucans that can counteract that effect. According to scientists, beta glucans can remarkably reduce the absorption of dietary fats and control cholesterol and weight by itself, even when added to a diet that includes high-fat foods. Scientists have reported that beta glucans nab cholesterol-related acids produced by dietary fats - ushering them out of the body before they can ravage the heart and arteries and thus lowering the risk of heart disease.

The excess calories in high-fat foods are absorbed by the body and stored as fat, and can cause weight gain over time - opening the door to obesity. Both fiber and antioxidants can counteract that effect. Scientists have reported that fiber helps control weight by reducing the amount of calories the body absorbs. It does that by nabbing calories - speeding them through the digestive system before they can be absorbed and stored as fat. Scientists have also reported that antioxidants help control weight by providing the body with the energy needed to burn fat more efficiently. These actions reduce the likelihood of weight gain and thus lower the risk of obesity.

NITROSAMINES AND PANCREATIC CANCER

Ultra-processed meats such as hot dogs, bacon and sausages contain nitrites. Over time, nitrites can open the door to pancreatic cancer by breaking down and combining with amines to form cancer-causing compounds known as nitrosamines. Vitamins C, E and selenium can counteract that effect. Scientists have reported that vitamins C, E and selenium fight pancreatic cancer by neutralizing nitrites and inhibiting the formation of nitrosamines over time - thus helping to immobilize the cancer-causing process.

HOMOCYSTEINE AND HEART DISEASE

Animal protein foods such as steaks, burgers and ribs can open the door to heart disease and stroke by increasing the body's production of a potentially dangerous amino acid known as homocysteine. Homocysteine is a by-product of protein metabolism. Excessive amounts of homocysteine in the bloodstream open the door to heart disease and stroke by injuring blood vessels, which leads to the buildup of plaque (scar tissue) and narrowing of the carotid arteries. The B vitamins folic acid, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12 can counteract that effect. Scientists have reported that folic acid, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12 fight heart disease and stroke by breaking down excess homocysteine into harmless compounds - thus inhibiting injury to blood vessels and narrowing of the carotid arteries.

This research goes as far back as the 1990s and has been conducted at various research centers and institutions across America and abroad over the decades. Complimentary review copies of "Counteract the Junk" will be sent to journalists, editors and other members of the media upon request.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Health writer DéShond G Barnes discovered the "Counteract the Junk" concept in the late 1990s by poring through medical journals and health, nutrition and diet publications for nearly a year, and has practiced the revolutionary "Counteract the Junk" methodology ever since - with incredible success.

By examining nutrition facts labels, calculating the total amount of fiber, antioxidants and other essential nutrients provided by health foods, and consuming a daily diet containing an average of 100+% of the Recommended Daily Allowance for fiber, antioxidants and other essential nutrients - Barnes has maintained excellent blood cholesterol, blood sugar, blood pressure and body weight over the decades without sacrificing unhealthy junk food favorites.

This has inspired Barnes to share this methodology with the rest of the world by publishing "Counteract the Junk" more than two decades later. Barnes also periodically conducts "Counteract the Junk" seminars at local Y.M.C.A.s in northern Illinois to spread the word about the "Counteract the Junk" methodology. Barnes lives and writes in northern Illinois.

ORIGINAL SOURCES

* Donald L. Brown. Antioxidants and cancer prevention: the epidemiologic evidence. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 1998.

* Editors of Prevention(r). Prevention's Healing With Vitamins. Rodale Press, Inc., 1996.

* James Gordon. Vegetables, fruit and cancer prevention: a review. Journal of the American Medical Association, 1999.

* Judy Jameson. Fat-Burning Foods and Other Weight-Loss Secrets. NTC/Contemporary Publishing Group, Inc., 1994.

* Mark Bricklin. Prevention Magazine's Nutrition Advisor. Rodale Press, Inc., 1993.

* Michael Murray. Long-term intake of dietary fiber and decreased risk of coronary heart disease. New England Journal of Medicine, 1999.

* Robert Garrison Jr., M.A., R.Ph. and Elizabeth Somer, M.A., R.D. The Nutrition Desk Reference. Keats Publishing, Inc., 1995.

* Selene Yeager and the Editors of Prevention. Prevention's New Foods For Healing. Rodale Press, Inc., 1999.

For additional information about the book, visit https://www.Amazon.com/Counteract-Junk-Physiological-Saturated-Components/dp/B0GJRC5G13.

News Source: Author DéShond G Barnes

Related link: https://a.co/d/0dwQ4wf8

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source, who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/new-book-uncovers-verifiable-research-in-health-and-medicine-indicating-that-fiber-can-counteract-saturated-fat-calories-and-other-junk-food-components-supporting-less-restrictive-cholesterol-and-w/

ADDISON, Texas, May 06, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Click n' Close, a multi-state mortgage lender, today announced the appointment of Amy Azorandia as chief compliance officer. In this role, Azorandia will lead the company's compliance strategy, governance framework and risk management infrastructure as Click n' Close continues to scale its national platform and expand its lending programs.

As chief compliance officer, Azorandia will be responsible for strengthening enterprise-wide compliance management systems, enhancing regulatory oversight and aligning compliance strategy with operational execution. Her appointment supports Click n' Close's continued focus on disciplined growth, loan quality and consistent performance across its wholesale, correspondent and retail channels.

"I'm pleased to welcome Amy to Click n' Close," said Ian Kimball, president of Click n' Close. "Her deep expertise in building scalable compliance frameworks and integrating risk management into operational strategy will be instrumental as we continue to grow the business while maintaining the highest standards of quality and accountability."

Azorandia brings more than 20 years of mortgage banking experience, with a track record of designing and implementing compliance and risk infrastructure across complex, multi-channel lending platforms. She is recognized for translating regulatory requirements into scalable systems that support production while protecting organizational integrity.

Most recently, Azorandia served as senior vice president of mortgage compliance and systems at Firstrust Bank, where she led regulatory strategy, compliance governance and operational transformation initiatives. She previously held executive leadership roles at GMH Mortgage Services, where she built enterprise compliance programs supporting a multi-state platform exceeding $1 billion in annual originations.

Throughout her career, Azorandia has led the development of risk-based compliance management systems, overseen regulatory examinations and implemented digital and operational enhancements that improve loan quality and efficiency. She is a Certified Mortgage Banker and an active industry leader, serving in multiple leadership roles within the Mortgage Bankers Association and The Mortgage Collaborative.

"Click n' Close has built a strong foundation centered on innovation, execution and expanding access to homeownership," Azorandia said. "I look forward to strengthening the company's compliance infrastructure in a way that supports sustainable growth, enhances operational performance and reinforces confidence across our partners and borrowers."

About Click n' Close, Inc.

Click n' Close, Inc. is a multi-state mortgage lender serving consumers and originators through its wholesale, correspondent and retail channels. The company is an industry leader in proprietary down payment assistance (DPA) programs and a recognized leader in One-Time Close construction lending across conventional, FHA, VA, USDA and Section 184 programs. Through its 1st Tribal Lending division-the nation's largest originator and servicer of Section 184 home loans for Native Americans-Click n' Close extends its commitment to expanding homeownership opportunities nationwide.

In operation since 1959, Click n' Close has remained at the forefront of mortgage innovation, pioneering the adoption of eClosings and eNotes. Backed by a strong financial foundation, Click n' Close has the balance sheet and warehouse capacity to support and scale its specialized loan programs, providing consistent access to capital and reliable execution for its partners. By maintaining direct relationships with Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, Ginnie Mae and private investors and servicing its loan programs in-house, the company delivers dependable liquidity, loan salability and an enhanced borrower experience.

Learn more at https://clicknclose.com.

News Source: Click n' Close Inc.

Related link: https://www.clicknclose.com/

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source, who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/click-n-close-names-amy-azorandia-chief-compliance-officer/

DETROIT, Mich., May 06, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Transformational life coach and speaker Karen L. Hatch announces the release of her powerful new book, "Knife in Shining Armor: Overcoming the Shock of Deception" (ISBN: 978-1834189499), published March 27, 2026, through Tellwell Publishing.

In this deeply personal and empowering work, Hatch shares her journey through covert emotional, psychological, and spiritual abuse within a marriage that appeared, on the surface, to be grounded in faith. Through candid storytelling, she reveals how subtle manipulation and deception eroded her sense of self-and how she ultimately reclaimed her identity and purpose.

"Knife in Shining Armor" is more than a story of betrayal and pain; it is a guide for transformation. Readers are invited to move beyond survival and into healing, as Hatch offers insight into breaking cycles of unmet needs and rebuilding self-worth. The book provides a framework for personal growth, encouraging individuals to rise above past wounds and step into a renewed sense of strength and clarity.

Drawing from her own lived experience and professional expertise, Hatch introduces her "R4 Strategies for Transformation": Resilience, Reinvention, Redefining, and Recovery. These principles serve as a foundation for readers seeking to heal deeply and create lasting change in their lives.

About the Author

Karen L. Hatch is a transformational life coach and speaker who turned a life marked by trauma, disappointment, and divorce into a powerful story of healing and purpose. Earning her degrees later in life, she now helps others rise through her R4 Strategies for Transformation. Through her QueenEquity Life Coaching practice, Hatch empowers individuals - especially women - to heal, reclaim their identity, and walk boldly into their purpose. She believes no storm is too powerful to overcome and that brokenness can give birth to beauty.

BOOK SUMMARY:

Author: Karen L. Hatch

Contact: AuthorPress@tellwell.ca

Buy Link: Knife in Shining Armor ( https://www.amazon.com/dp/1834189497 )

Genre: Nonfiction

Released: March 27, 2026

PAPERBACK ISBN-13: 9781834189499

Publisher: Tellwell ( https://tellwell.ca )

News Source: Tellwell Publishing

Related link: https://www.tellwellpublishing.com/

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source, who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/karen-l-hatch-releases-powerful-new-book-on-healing-from-covert-abuse-and-reclaiming-self-worth/

MIAMI, Fla., May 05, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- As global technology and retail leaders accelerate investment in artificial intelligence-driven commerce, Black Friday Lifestyle, a unified consumer platform owned by Empire License, Inc., is emerging as a key player in the evolving race to shape how consumers shop and spend.

Companies such as Amazon, Walmart, Google, and Microsoft are investing heavily in AI-powered shopping tools. However, a critical element remains unclaimed: a globally recognized consumer signal that consistently drives urgency, intent, and spending.

BLACK FRIDAY REPRESENTS THAT SIGNAL.

"Companies are building AI commerce platforms, but technology alone does not create demand," said Williams, President & CEO of Empire License, Inc. "Black Friday is already embedded in consumer behavior worldwide-it's where intent turns into action."

A SCALABLE CONSUMER PLATFORM The Black Friday Lifestyle platform includes:

* Black Friday Select - an AI-powered shopping assistant designed to guide purchasing decisions, compare products, and increase transaction flow

* Black Friday Loyalty Rewards Card - a year-round financial engagement platform designed to drive continuous spending activity culminating in peak seasonal usage

* Black Friday Media & Consumer Platform - a growing entertainment and branding ecosystem designed to expand awareness, engagement, and long-term cultural relevance

Together, these components form a scalable ecosystem positioned at the intersection of AI, commerce, and financial transactions.

STRATEGIC POSITION IN THE AI COMMERCE RACE

Openness to Strategic Acquisition and Partnership

Empire License, Inc. confirmed that it is currently evaluating strategic opportunities, including:

* Acquisition

* Licensing

* Partnerships with global leaders in finance, retail, and technology

* The company believes integrating the Black Friday platform into a larger ecosystem could unlock significant value by combining consumer behavior, transaction infrastructure, and AI-driven engagement.

A MARKET OPPORTUNITY STILL UNCLAIMED

Despite generating tens of billions in annual consumer spending, no single company currently owns how Black Friday actively is monetized across financial systems, AI platforms, and global commerce.

"This is bigger than a shopping day," Williams added. "It's about building the infrastructure behind how the world shops."

ABOUT BLACK FRIDAY LIFESTYLE

Black Friday is a multi-platform consumer ecosystem owned by Empire License, Inc., combining AI-powered shopping technology, financial engagement tools, and media driven brand expansion.

LEARN MORE
https://www.bflrewards.com/
https://www.bfcharacter.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@mynameisblackfriday

News Source: Empire License Inc.

Related link: https://bfcharacter.com/

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source, who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/black-friday-positioned-at-center-of-ai-commerce-race-signals-openness-to-strategic-acquisition/

NEW ORLEANS, La., May 05, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- ViewTech Borescopes, a leading provider of remote visual inspection (RVI) equipment, will showcase its newest innovation-the VJ-4 3D Stereo Measurement Video Borescope-at the NBAA Maintenance Conference. Taking place May 5-7 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, the event brings together aviation maintenance professionals, technicians, and industry leaders to discover advanced technologies designed to enhance safety, improve efficiency, and support regulatory compliance.

Designed for precision and ease of use, the new 3D Stereo Measurement Video Borescope enables inspectors to capture accurate, real-time measurements during visual inspections. This advanced capability helps aviation maintenance teams reduce downtime and eliminate unnecessary disassembly.

"Our newest 3D Stereo Measurement Video Borescope represents a significant advancement in remote visual inspection technology," said James Shomin, Customer Outreach Manager at ViewTech Borescopes. "By combining high-resolution imaging with precise measurement capabilities, we're giving maintenance professionals the tools they need to increase accuracy, streamline workflows, and maintain the highest safety standards."

Attendees visiting the ViewTech Borescopes exhibit at booth 601 will experience live demonstrations and learn how their technology can be applied across a wide range of aviation inspection scenarios, including turbine engines, airframes, and critical components.

In addition to the new 3D measurement system, ViewTech's full lineup of articulating mechanical video borescopes is recognized for its durability, intuitive controls, and high-resolution imaging performance. Paired with the VJ-4, ViewTech's Borescope Report Maker software streamlines the inspection workflow and produces clear, professional reports that support faster, data-driven maintenance decisions.

Read more about NBAA Maintenance Conference: https://www.viewtech.com/about-us/tradeshows/2026-nbaa-maintenance-conference

TRY BEFORE YOU BUY

ViewTech offers an exclusive No-Cost, No-Obligation Demo Program. This program allows end-users the opportunity to evaluate a ViewTech video borescope at their own facility on their own aviation equipment, ensuring the technology meets their specific inspection requirements before any financial commitment.

VJ-3 AND VJ-4 VIDEO BORESCOPE

The VJ-3 and VJ-4 video borescopes are nondestructive visual testing instruments used for the remote visual inspection of machinery, equipment, and components. With diameters as small as 0.85mm, the VJ-3 and VJ-4 facilitate the visual recording and photo documentation of an inspection and components in areas that are otherwise inaccessible or require significant effort and expense to access directly. The VJ-3 and VJ-4 video borescopes consist of two modules integrated into one system: an insertion tube with distally mounted camera/LEDs and the base unit with control panel, LCD monitor, power source, and all necessary circuitry.

ABOUT VIEWTECH BORESCOPES

ViewTech Borescopes, founded as RF System Lab in 2008, is North America's top seller of video borescopes. Their first product, the VJ borescope, set a new standard for portability, ergonomics, and ease-of-use, with its industry-first mechanical, joystick-controlled articulation.

Learn more: https://www.viewtech.com/

News Source: ViewTech Borescopes

Related link: https://www.ViewTech.com

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source, who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/viewtech-borescopes-to-showcase-new-3d-stereo-measurement-video-borescope-at-nbaa-maintenance-conference/

DETROIT, Mich., May 05, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- At the 44th Automotive/Petroleum Industry Forum, presented by the Detroit Advisory Panel (DAP) through the American Petroleum Institute (PEI), the TOP TIER™ Approved Fuels Program announced a strategic shift in program leadership, naming Tier One Fuel Quality of Midland, Michigan, as its new Program Administrator and appointing Sarah Goralski as Program Manager.

The Tier One Fuel Quality team has supported the program's strategic and marketing efforts for more than five years and is now expanding its role in overseeing program administration. This transition marks a significant step in strengthening one of the industry's most trusted benchmarks for fuel quality.

This transition also reflects a continued commitment to delivering greater value to both consumers and fuel brands. This includes the rollout of enhanced quality standards-such as the introduction of TOP TIER™ +, along with data-driven marketing initiatives designed to better connect consumers with trusted fuel brands.

By strengthening program oversight and expanding its global impact, Tier One Fuel Quality aims to ensure the TOP TIER™ designation remains a clear and reliable signal of performance and quality in the marketplace.

As part of this advancement, Sarah Goralski has been appointed TOP TIER™ Program Manager, bringing extensive experience from her tenure at General Motors.

In her previous role, Goralski worked in the Milford Fuels and Emissions Laboratory, where she led initiatives in petroleum and emissions testing, laboratory operations and advanced chemical analysis-driving improvements in product compliance and testing efficiency. She has also played an active role in industry standards development. Most notably, Goralski has served as an Audit Specialist for the TOP TIER™ Fuels Program, overseeing global audit activities.

Tier One Fuel Quality remains committed to advancing the TOP TIER™ Approved Fuels Program while delivering meaningful value to its stakeholders. Planned enhancements include improvements to program operations, communications and added resources for both consumers and fuel marketers.

Learn more: https://tieronefuel.com/

News Source: Tier One Fuel Quality

Related link: https://tieronefuel.com/

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source, who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/top-tier-fuel-program-announces-new-administrator-and-program-manager/

DENVER, Colo., May 05, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- DealCycl, Inc. today announced the general availability of DealCycl Company, the cap table management and corporate governance platform for private companies. DealCycl Company is available immediately across four pricing tiers - Free, Starter, Growth, and Scale - with no waitlist, no sales calls, and no per-stakeholder pricing. The platform is the first in the cap table category to ship a fully agent-native architecture on day one, available at dealcycl.com/captable.

DAY-ONE AGENT-NATIVE PLATFORM

Every paid plan includes the full DealCycl MCP Server and Claude Skill, exposing the same capabilities and data model that power the user interface to AI agents through Anthropic's open Model Context Protocol - with no enterprise gate, no add-on SKU, and no proprietary integration required. Because MCP is an open standard, customers can connect their own agents, auditors' agents, and internal finance tools to their DealCycl tenant with a configuration change rather than an integration engagement.

"Anything a person can do in the DealCycl UI, an agent can now do through our MCP Server," said Chris Caldwell, COO and co-founder of DealCycl. "Not most things. Not with caveats. Everything. We treat agent-native parity as a platform pillar - every product we ship from here on out inherits it by default."

PRICING AVAILABLE DAY ONE ACROSS FOUR TIERS

All four tiers are available immediately with published pricing, unlimited stakeholders on every paid plan, and no per-stakeholder fees:

* Free - $0/year, 1 Full User, 25 Stakeholders. Free forever, not a trial.

* Starter - $1,999/year, 3 Full Users, Unlimited Stakeholders. For post-seed startups.

* Growth - $4,999/year, 5 Full Users, Unlimited Stakeholders. For Series A and B companies.

* Scale - $9,999/year, 10 Full Users, Unlimited Stakeholders. For Series C+ and multi-entity companies.

Every paid plan includes a 3-year price lock, one-click cancellation, full data export, a 30-day money-back guarantee, and the contractual data sovereignty commitment.

CONTRACTUAL DATA SOVEREIGNTY

DealCycl was founded in direct response to the January 2024 Carta data incident, in which the dominant cap table provider used confidential cap table data to cold-contact investors about selling their shares without company knowledge or consent. DealCycl is the first platform in the category to commit contractually - in customer agreements, not marketing copy - to never use customer cap table data to broker trades, contact investors, or monetize equity information.

"Founders trust their cap table provider with the most sensitive information their company produces," said Chris Goodwin, CEO and co-founder of DealCycl. "We treat that trust as a legal obligation, not a marketing claim."

ONE-CLICK CARTA MIGRATION, AVAILABLE TODAY

DealCycl Company supports one-click import from Carta on every plan, including the Free tier. Prioritized white-glove migration assistance is available during the launch window for customers transitioning from per-stakeholder cap table products.

ABOUT THE FOUNDERS

DealCycl was founded by Chris Goodwin, architect of RSA Archer, and Chris Caldwell, co-founder and former CEO of Lockpath, a GRC platform acquired by NAVEX Global. Both founders bring more than 20 years of enterprise security and governance experience to the platform.

ABOUT DEALCYCL, INC.

DealCycl is the investment lifecycle management platform for private markets. DealCycl Company provides cap table management and corporate governance for startups and private companies. The company was founded by Chris Goodwin (CEO), the architect of RSA Archer, and Chris Caldwell (COO), co-founder and former CEO of Lockpath. DealCycl is headquartered in Denver, CO. For more information, visit https://dealcycl.com/.

News Source: DealCycl Inc.

Related link: https://dealcycl.com/

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source, who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/dealcycl-company-now-generally-available-shipping-day-one-agent-native-cap-table-platform-on-all-paid-plans/

MILFORD, Mass., May 05, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- The team at Total Sonics, the intellectual property licensing division of THAT Corporation, has had a very busy 2026. This latest agreement brings together Total Sonics and Xiaomi (pronounced "sh-ow-mee"), a true global technology leader with advanced product families in cell phones, tablets, televisions, appliances, wearables, office, smart home, high-tech entertainment products, and more.

With over one billion devices in the marketplace employing their technology, Total Sonics' sound improvement solutions have steadily evolved and grown more sophisticated. This success has fueled the adoption of their latest innovations by major consumer electronics manufacturers around the globe, including multi-award-winning Total Cal(r) automated in-home calibration, Total Bass(tm) psychoacoustic bass enhancement, and Total Immersion(tm) height virtualization.

Xiaomi's new Smart Home Screen 11, featuring a large 11" 1920 X 1200 resolution HD display, is the most powerful Xiaomi screen released yet. It delivers a massive amount of content and smart control capabilities for the whole family, aggregates resources from mainstream music platforms, and supports Xiaomi's home karaoke feature. And of course, it is powered by Xiaomi Hyper OS.

The Smart Home Screen 11 also innovates with its audio design, avoiding the traditional "sound below the screen" approach with an innovative four-driver two-way system housed in an independent sound cavity on the rear of the screen. This audio hardware change, coupled with Total Sonics' audio processing technologies, creates a surprisingly large, clear and full sound stage for a device this size.

Xiaomi also made significant advancements with their hardware and mechanical designs. The upgraded 8-core processor paired with 6GB RAM provides silky-smooth operation without lag. Physical design changes also enable a 35% reduction of the screen's overall size compared to the previous generation, resulting in a slimmer, more elegant look. The uni-body metal frame is paired with a light gray fabric surface, yielding a form factor that blends seamlessly into home decor styles.

According to Timothy Brault, Total Sonics' Vice President of Licensing, "The Smart Home Screen 11 from Xiaomi represents a significant leap forward in performance, delivering an audio experience far beyond what is typical for this class of device. We are proud Xiaomi chose to work with us to optimize the audio performance of the Smart Home Screen 11 and look forward to more fruitful collaborations with them in the future."

About Total Sonics:

Total Sonics is the Licensing Division of THAT Corporation. Founded by veteran engineers of the legendary dbx(r) Inc. brand of professional and consumer audio products, the technology that drives Total Sonics has been improving sound in consumer electronics products for over 40 years. More than 1 billion products in the worldwide market use Total Sonics' technologies, as manufacturers around the world rely on Total Sonics to deliver better audio experiences to consumers without the need for additional hardware. Total Sonics licenses audio processing software for TVs, soundbars, speakers, PCs, mobile devices, and other consumer electronics.

Learn more at: https://totalsonics.com/

News Source: Total Sonics

Related link: https://totalsonics.com/

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source, who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/chinese-ce-powerhouse-xiaomi-steps-up-its-audio-performance-with-technology-from-total-sonics/

XUANCHENG, China, May 04, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- As demand for durable, low-maintenance outdoor materials intensifies across commercial and residential construction, KR New Materials Co., Ltd. (KR WPC) is expanding its product portfolio with a new line of ASA/PVC co-extruded wood-plastic composite (WPC) solutions. The new range targets architects, landscape designers, contractors, and international distributors seeking outdoor materials that combine long-term weather resistance, structural stability, and minimal upkeep - without compromising on aesthetics.

Conventional WPC, while superior to natural timber in moisture and decay resistance, still carries a vulnerability rooted in its composition: wood fiber near the surface can absorb water over time, triggering microcracking, swelling, and gradual surface degradation in high-exposure installations. KR WPC's ASA/PVC co-extruded approach addresses this at the structural level.

A Smarter Layered Architecture

Co-extrusion fuses two or more material layers during manufacturing - not glued on after the fact. In KR WPC's new system, an ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate) capstock forms the exposed outer surface, while a PVC-based core provides dimensional stability and moisture resistance underneath.

ASA is widely used in exterior plastic applications precisely because it resists UV degradation and weathering more effectively than many alternative thermoplastics - properties that make it a preferred material for window profiles, exterior cladding, and other high-exposure building components. When used as a cap layer in WPC, ASA absorbs the environmental stress that would otherwise act directly on the wood-polymer interior.

PVC, as the structural core, brings low moisture uptake and strong dimensional behavior - reducing the risk of warping, swelling, or gap formation over seasonal cycles. The result is a board that performs in fundamentally different conditions than standard single-body WPC: less surface fatigue, fewer maintenance interventions, and better retention of color and texture over time.

Weather Resistance in Practice

Outdoor weathering is rarely dramatic - it accumulates. Repeated UV exposure dulls surfaces; wet-dry cycles stress microstructures; grime bakes in rather than washing off. These processes don't produce immediate failure, but they shorten the functional lifespan of lesser materials and drive-up cleaning and repair costs.

KR WPC's ASA/PVC co-extruded boards are engineered to slow this trajectory. The ASA cap acts as a barrier layer, reducing water ingress into the core and limiting UV exposure to the wood-polymer interior. Field and laboratory evaluation work referenced in the broader exterior plastics sector supports the principle that a properly specified cap layer helps keep composite cores drier and less prone to surface weathering - a consideration that becomes particularly relevant in high-humidity climates, coastal installations, and commercial settings where downtime for maintenance is costly.

Durability and Maintenance Realities

"Low maintenance" claims in the outdoor materials space require scrutiny. The more accurate promise with co-extruded WPC is this: owners avoid the seasonal staining, sealing, and surface restoration cycles associated with natural timber. Day-to-day care is limited to sweeping and periodic washing with mild cleaners - provided spills are addressed within a reasonable window rather than left to set.

ASA capstock is positioned in the market as a hard-wearing exterior surface, and product data published by manufacturers of ASA-capped systems includes abrasion and hardness metrics that support durability claims in commercial use cases. For rooftop bars, pool surrounds, restaurant terraces, and public walkways - environments where surface failure becomes a maintenance line item - these characteristics carry direct operational significance.

Design Flexibility for Coordinated Projects

With the performance layer handled, design flexibility becomes a practical advantage. KR WPC's co-extruded WPC is available across a broad color range, with embossed wood-grain, brushed, and smoother architectural textures. Importantly, the company supports color and texture matching across its decking, cladding, and fencing lines - a capability that matters for projects where multiple outdoor surfaces need to read as a cohesive system rather than a collection of unrelated materials.

Physical samples, technical documentation, and customization options - including color, texture, size, packaging, and branding - are available through KR WPC's B2B sales and specification support process.

Commercial Procurement Discipline

KR WPC notes that customers specifying ASA/PVC co-extruded products should request cross-section verification, material breakdown documentation (capstock resin and core resin specifications), and third-party test reports as part of the submittal process. This aligns with broader industry practice of treating documentation readiness as a procurement requirement, particularly for international projects where material specifications are scrutinized at multiple stages.

About KR New Materials (KR WPC)

KR New Materials Co., Ltd. (KR WPC) is a manufacturer and exporter of wood-plastic composite solutions headquartered in Xuancheng, China. The company specializes in WPC decking, composite exterior cladding, and composite fencing systems - including co-extruded product lines - with standard and custom-made options for B2B clients. KR WPC exports to more than 20 countries and supports OEM and ODM programs, physical sample provision, and technical documentation during customer evaluation.

To learn more visit: https://www.krecocomposites.com/

About KR New Materials (KR WPC)

KR New Materials Co., Ltd. (KR WPC) is a premier manufacturer and exporter of wood-plastic composite (WPC) solutions, headquartered in Xuancheng, China. With over 13 years of expertise, KR specializes in decking, cladding, fencing, and outdoor accessories engineered for durability, safety, and sustainability. The company holds CE, FSC, and ISO 9001 certifications, with products tested under EN, ASTM, and ASEAN standards. Operating 40+ production lines, KR exports to more than 20 countries, delivering eco-friendly and customizable outdoor materials trusted by architects, contractors, and distributors worldwide.

"KR WPC's ASA/PVC co-extruded line delivers what specifiers demand in harsh outdoor environments - performance-backed durability, coordinated aesthetics, and supply chain transparency." - KR WPC

WOOD PLASTIC COMPOSITE DECKING https://www.krecocomposites.com/wpc-composite-decking/

COMPOSITE EXTERIOR CLADDING https://www.krecocomposites.com/wpc-composite-cladding/

COMPOSITE FENCING PANELS https://www.krecocomposites.com/wpc-composite-fencing/

News Source: KR New Materials Co., Ltd.

Related link: https://www.krecocomposites.com/

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source, who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/kr-wpc-launches-asa-pvc-co-extruded-wpc-line-for-high-performance-outdoor-applications/

WESTMINSTER, Colo., May 04, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- The Kiosk Association (KMA) today announced the appointment of Matthijs Verhagen, European Sales Manager at Storm Interface, as Co-Chair of its Accessibility Committee. Verhagen joins Michael O'Hare (TFA Consulting) and Oscar Rozo (LG Electronics) to lead the committee at a critical inflection point for the self-service industry.

With enforcement timelines accelerating for the European Accessibility Act (EAA) and new U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Section 504 requirements, operators and manufacturers face increasing pressure to align deployed systems with evolving accessibility mandates.

FROM POLICY TO DEPLOYMENT REALITY

The KMA Accessibility Committee represents more than 100 member companies spanning kiosk hardware, software, payments, and field services-including industry leaders such as Intel, Olea Kiosks, KIOSK Information Systems, and Pyramid Computer.

Unlike policy-driven working groups, the committee is focused on deployment-scale execution-translating regulatory requirements into practical, field-tested standards that can be implemented across thousands of deployed systems.

THREE REGULATORY FRONTS DEFINING THE MARKET

Europe - EAA Compliance

With EAA enforcement approaching, KMA is aligning members on hardware, interface, and assistive technology requirements necessary for continued access to EU markets.

United States - HHS Section 504

New federal rules are redefining accessibility expectations for healthcare and public-facing digital services, requiring immediate operational planning and system updates.

Asia-Pacific - Scale Without Harmonization

Rapid self-service adoption across Asia-particularly in high-volume retail and transit environments-continues to outpace regulatory alignment, creating both opportunity and compliance risk for global OEMs and integrators.

INDUSTRY-DRIVEN STANDARDS THAT WORK AT SCALE

"The strength of the KMA is not in committee structure-it is in deployment reality," said the Kiosk Association. "When companies like Intel, Olea, and KIOSK Information Systems align on accessibility, the result is not theoretical guidance-it is standards that work in real environments, at real scale."

FOCUSED DELIVERABLES FOR OPERATORS AND INTEGRATORS

The KMA Accessibility Committee is actively developing:

* EAA readiness and compliance checklists

* HHS Section 504 implementation frameworks

* Accessibility ROI and retrofit vs. replace decision models

* Multi-modal interface guidance (touch, voice, and assistive technologies)

These resources are designed to help organizations move beyond compliance uncertainty and into executable deployment strategies.

ABOUT THE KIOSK ASSOCIATION (KMA)

The Kiosk Association is a global organization dedicated to advancing best practices in self-service technology. Operating under The Industry Group (TIG), KMA provides leadership in accessibility, security, and lifecycle design for kiosks, digital signage, and point-of-sale systems.

More information: http://kma.global

INDUSTRY RESOURCES (NRA ATTENDEE ACCESS)

In conjunction with the National Restaurant Association Show, The Industry Group is providing limited access to operator-focused research tools, including:

* Retrofit vs. Replace Decision Kit with worksheet

* Self-Service ROI Calculator

* Voice AI in Self-Service 2026 (Drive-thru, kiosks, cost models)

* Edge AI upgrade planning tools (Intel / Hailo / legacy systems)

Designed to answer one critical question:

"Should we upgrade what we have-or start over?"

Access: https://keefner3.gumroad.com/

News Source: Kiosk Manufacturer Association

Related link: https://kioskindustry.org/

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source, who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/kiosk-association-appoints-matthijs-verhagen-as-accessibility-co-chair-to-advance-global-compliance-strategy/