Market Newsdesk

BOCA RATON, Fla., Aug. 21, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NewtekOne, Inc. (the “Company”) (NASDAQ: NEWT), announced today that the Board of Directors of its bank subsidiary, Newtek Bank, N.A,. has declared a dividend of $2.0 million, payable to NewtekOne.

Barry Sloane, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer said, “We are pleased to report that the Board of Directors of Newtek Bank has declared a $2.0 million dividend, payable to NewtekOne, Newtek Bank’s publicly traded financial holding company. Newtek Bank’s swift ascension to profitability for the six months ended June 30, 2023, after being acquired by NewtekOne on January 6, 2023, is a testimony to the dedicated teams of executives and employees at NewtekOne and Newtek Bank. The dividend declaration is indicative of the commitment that we have to all of our stakeholders at both the Bank and financial-holding-company to consistently meet our goals, while simultaneously delivering the highest quality of business and financial solutions to our independent business owner customer base. We look forward to continuing to pay dividends, from both NewtekOne to shareholders, and from Newtek Bank to NewtekOne, based upon our expectations and hopeful performance.”

NewtekOne

^®
, Your Business Solutions Company^®, is a financial holding company, which along with its bank and non-bank consolidated subsidiaries (collectively, “NewtekOne”), provides a wide range of business and financial solutions under the Newtek^® brand to the small- and medium-sized business (“SMB”) market. Since 1999, NewtekOne has provided state-of-the-art, cost-efficient products and services and efficient business strategies to SMB relationships across all 50 states to help them grow their sales, control their expenses and reduce their risk.

NewtekOne’s and its subsidiaries’ business and financial solutions include: banking (Newtek Bank, N.A.), Business Lending, SBA Lending Solutions, Electronic Payment Processing, Technology Solutions (Cloud Computing, Data Backup, Storage and Retrieval, IT Consulting), eCommerce, Accounts Receivable Financing & Inventory Financing, Insurance Solutions, Web Services, and Payroll and Benefits Solutions.

Newtek

^®
, NewtekOne^®, Newtek Bank, National Association™, Your Business Solutions Company^® and One Solution for All Your Business Needs^® are registered trademarks of NewtekOne, Inc.

Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the rules and regulations of the Private Securities Litigation and Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on management’s current expectations and are subject to uncertainty and changes in circumstances. These statements are not guarantees of future results or occurrences. Actual results and capital and other financial conditions may differ materially from those included in these statements due to a variety of factors. Factors that could cause NewtekOne, Inc’s actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in NewtekOne, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and are available on NewtekOne, Inc’s website (https://investor.newtekbusinessservices.com/sec-filings), and on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website (www.sec.gov). Any forward-looking statements made by or on behalf of NewtekOne, Inc. speak only as to the date they are made, and NewtekOne, Inc. does not undertake to update forward-looking statements to reflect the impact of circumstances or events that arise after the date the forward-looking statements were made.

SOURCE: NewtekOne, Inc.

Investor Relations & Public Relations


Contact: Jayne Cavuoto
Telephone: (212) 273-8179 / [email protected]

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Aug. 21, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LPL Financial LLC announced today that Watermark Wealth Management has joined LPL Financial’s broker-dealer, RIA and custodial platforms. The team of 16 advisors reported having served approximately $1.5 billion in advisory, brokerage and retirement plan assets*, and joins LPL from Kestra.

With registered offices in Scottsdale, Chandler and Payson, Ariz., as well as Minneapolis, Minn., Watermark was founded in 2009 during the financial crisis by a small group of advisors looking to share resources in an independent environment. The team has grown over the years to now include 16 advisors and 12 support staff members, all with a passion for helping others improve and maintain their financial achievements.

“Our goal has always been to encourage organic growth by recruiting advisors who have demonstrated high ethical moral practices and are committed to putting clients first,” said Founding Partner and Director of Estate Planning Carmen Cercone.

Under Cercone and fellow Founding Partner Kyle Richardson’s direction, the firm has grown from $230 million in AUM to $1.5 billion in 14 years. The firm’s leadership team also includes Aaron Gordon, Rich Liberante and Jake Cercone, with each advisor bringing different strengths to the firm as they provide families with all-encompassing, personalized financial strategies.

“Effective financial planning is all about relationships and we believe in building genuine and long-lasting partnerships with our clients,” Cercone said. “We strive to create easy-to-understand, effective strategies, designed to provide clients with confidence. We are a one-stop shop and work with other professionals and centers of influence to help ensure our clients’ financial needs are addressed.”

Looking for more stability and a partner with scale, the Watermark team chose to move to LPL Financial.

“As a Fortune 500 company, LPL heavily invests in technology enhancements and other integrated capabilities with open architecture, making it seamless to operate several programs without having to jump into different systems,” Gordon said. “These capabilities will empower our team to work more efficiently and also create enhanced experiences for our clients since all their account information will be aggregated into one portal.”

Another key factor that drew Watermark Wealth Management to LPL is the ability to grow their practice on their own terms and attract new advisors to their team environment.

Scott Posner, LPL Executive Vice President, Business Development, stated, “We extend a warm welcome to the entire Watermark team and are honored to be their choice for enhanced services to deliver more value to their clients. At LPL, we stand firm in our commitment to investing in innovative technology, business solutions, platforms and resources to help advisors and enterprises succeed. We appreciate the high standards and integrity that the Watermark team demonstrates and look forward to supporting them for years to come.”

Related

Advisors, find an LPL business development representative near you. 

About LPL Financial


LPL Financial Holdings Inc. (Nasdaq: LPLA) was founded on the principle that the firm should work for the advisor, and not the other way around. Today, LPL is a leader in the markets we serve, serving nearly 22,000 financial advisors, including advisors at approximately 1,100 enterprises and at approximately 550 registered investment advisor (“RIA”) firms nationwide. We are steadfast in our commitment to the advisor-mediated model and the belief that Americans deserve access to personalized guidance from a financial advisor. At LPL, independence means that advisors have the freedom they deserve to choose the business model, services, and technology resources that allow them to run their perfect practice. And they have the freedom to manage their client relationships, because they know their clients best. Simply put, we take care of our advisors, so they can take care of their clients.

Securities and Advisory services offered through LPL Financial LLC (“LPL Financial”), a registered investment advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC. LPL Financial and its affiliated companies provide financial services only from the United States. Watermark Wealth Management and LPL Financial are separate entities.

Throughout this communication, the terms “financial advisors” and “advisors” are used to refer to registered representatives and/or investment advisor representatives affiliated with LPL Financial.

We routinely disclose information that may be important to shareholders in the “Investor Relations” or “Press Releases” section of our website.

*Value approximated based on asset and holding details provided to LPL from year-end 2022.

Connect with Us!

https://twitter.com/lpl

https://www.linkedin.com/company/lpl-financial

https://www.facebook.com/LPLFinancialLLC

https://www.youtube.com/user/lplfinancialllc

Media Contact:



[email protected]

(704) 996-1840

Tracking #1-05377513

 

– LiveOne Sets Record Date of August 28, 2023 for Special Dividend of ~19% of PodcastOne’s Common Stock to LiveOne’s 24K+ Shareholders

– LiveOne


Shareholders of Record Are Expected to Receive Approximately 0.048 Shares of PodcastOne Common Stock Per Share of LiveOne Common Stock; PodcastOne Shares Expected to Open Trading at $8 Per Share Minimum

LOS ANGELES, CA, Aug. 21, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — via NewMediaWire — LiveOne (Nasdaq: LVO), an award-winning, creator-first music, entertainment, and technology platform, announced today that it has set August 28, 2023 as the record date to determine LiveOne’s shareholders of record eligible to receive its planned special dividend of approximately 19% of PodcastOne’s common stock as part of its planned spin-out of PodcastOne as a separate public company (the “Spin-Out”).

In February 2023, LiveOne announced it had received an independent, third party valuation from ValueScope, which indicates that the fair market value range of its wholly-owned subsidiary PodcastOne’s equity, on a controlling, marketable interest basis, as of December 31, 2022, is reasonably stated as between $230 million and $274 million. The valuation report was obtained in connection with planned Spin-Out.

Other criteria, if any, to determine LiveOne’s shareholders eligible for the special dividend shall be determined and announced by LiveOne at a later date. The planned Spin-Out, amount of the special dividend and LiveOne’s shareholders’ dividend eligibility shall be subject to obtaining applicable approvals and compliance with applicable rules and regulations and public market trading and listing requirements.

About PodcastOne

PodcastOne
 is a leading advertiser-supported podcast company, offering a 360-degree solution for both content creators and advertisers, including content development, brand integration and distribution. Acquired by LiveOne (NASDAQ: LVO) in 2020, PodcastOne amasses more than 2.1 billion downloads per year with 350+ podcast episodes distributed per week across a stable of hundreds of top podcast programs, including talent such as Adam Carolla, Kaitlyn Bristowe, Jordan Harbinger, The LadyGang, I’ve Had It, and A&E’s Cold Case Files. Its shows are distributed across its own platform as well as LiveOne’s owned-and-operated channels on mobile, mobile web, desktop and SmartTVs, and Tesla. PodcastOne is the parent company of LaunchpadOne, an innovative self-serve platform developed to launch, host, distribute and monetize independent user-generated podcasts. PodcastOne is the brainchild of Norm Pattiz, the founder of Network Radio-giant, Westwood One, and co-founded by Kit Gray, who was one of the early strategists in developing a monetary strategy for the podcast industry.

About LiveOne, Inc.

Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, LiveOne, Inc. (NASDAQ: LVO) (the “Company”) is an award-winning, creator-first, music, entertainment and technology platform focused on delivering premium experiences and content worldwide through memberships and live and virtual events. The Company’s wholly-owned subsidiaries include Slacker Radio, a membership music streaming service, and PodcastOne, which generates more than 2.3 billion downloads per year, 350+ hours distributed weekly, and 14M+ monthly unique listeners. Nearly all new Tesla EVs sold in the U.S. come with a paid membership to LiveOne’s Slacker Radio (that now includes PodcastOne) which is paid by Tesla. As of July 31, 2023, the Company has accrued a paid and free ad-supported membership base of approximately 3.2 million, including over 2.3 million paid members*. The Company was awarded Best Live Moment by Digiday for its “Social Gloves” PPV Event, and has been a finalist for 8 more awards, including Best Live Event, Best Virtual Event, Best Overall Social Media Excellence, and Best Original Programming from Cynopsis and Digiday. As of February 9, 2023, the Company has streamed over 2,900 artists, has a library of 30 million songs, 600 curated radio stations, over 300 podcasts/vodcasts, hundreds of pay-per-views, personalized merchandise, released music-related NFTs, and created a valuable connection between fans, brands, and bands. The Company’s other wholly-owned subsidiaries include PPVOne, Gramophone Media, Palm Beach Records, Custom Personalization Solutions, and LiveXLive, and the Company’s other majority-owned subsidiaries are Drumify and Splitmind. LiveOne is available on iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Android TV, and through STIRR’s OTT applications. For more information, visit liveone.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and Twitter at @liveone.

Forward-Looking Statements

All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release are “forward-looking statements,” which may often, but not always, be identified by the use of such words as “may,” “might,” “will,” “will likely result,” “would,” “should,” “estimate,” “plan,” “project,” “forecast,” “intend,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “seek,” “continue,” “target” or the negative of such terms or other similar expressions. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements, including: the Company’s reliance on one key customer for a substantial percentage of its revenue; the Company’s ability to consummate any proposed financing, acquisition, spin-out, special dividend, merger, distribution or transaction, including the proposed special dividend and spin-out of PodcastOne (the “Spin-Out”) and the Company’s pay-per-view business and the proposed merger of Slacker with Roth CH Acquisition V Co. (the “Proposed Business Combination”), the timing of the consummation of any such proposed event, including the risks that a condition to the consummation of any such event would not be satisfied within the expected timeframe or at all, or that the consummation of any proposed financing, acquisition, spin-out, merger, special dividend, distribution or transaction will not occur or whether any such event will enhance shareholder value; PodcastOne’s or Slacker’s ability to list on a national exchange; the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern; the Company’s ability to attract, maintain and increase the number of its users and paid members; the Company identifying, acquiring, securing and developing content; the Company’s intent to repurchase shares of its common stock from time to time under its announced stock repurchase program and the timing, price, and quantity of repurchases, if any, under the program; the Company’s ability to maintain compliance with certain financial and other covenants; the Company successfully implementing its growth strategy, including relating to its technology platforms and applications; management’s relationships with industry stakeholders; the effects of the global Covid-19 pandemic; uncertain and unfavorable outcomes in legal proceedings; changes in economic conditions; competition; risks and uncertainties applicable to the businesses of the Company’s subsidiaries; and other risks, uncertainties and factors including, but not limited to, those described in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2023, filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on June 29, 2023, Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter year ended June 30, 2023, filed with the SEC on August 15, 2023, and in the Company’s other filings and submissions with the SEC. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof, and the Company disclaims any obligation to update these statements, except as may be required by law. The Company intends that all forward-looking statements be subject to the safe-harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

* Included in the total number of paid members for the reported periods are certain members which are the subject of a contractual dispute. LiveOne is currently not recognizing revenue related to these members.

No Offer or Solicitation

This communication does not constitute a proxy statement or solicitation of a proxy, consent, vote or authorization with respect to any securities or in respect of the Spin-Out or the Proposed Business Combination and shall not constitute an offer to sell or exchange, or a solicitation of an offer to buy or exchange any securities, nor shall there be any sale, issuance or transfer of any such securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such state or jurisdiction. No offer of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or an exemption therefrom.

LiveOne IR Contact

:

Kirin Smith
PCG Advisory
(646) 823-8656
[email protected]

LiveOne Press Contacts

:

LiveOne
[email protected]

SANTA MONICA, Calif., Aug. 21, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Super League Gaming, Inc. (Nasdaq: SLGG) (“Super League” or the “Company”), a leading publisher and creator of immersive experiences across the world’s largest metaverse gaming platforms, announced today the pricing of an underwritten public offering with gross proceeds to the Company expected to be approximately $2.2 million, before deducting underwriting discounts and other estimated expenses payable by the Company. The base offering consists of 16,923,077 shares of common stock (or pre-funded warrants in lieu of common stock) at a price to the public of $0.13 per share (less $0.001 in exercise price per pre-funded warrant). The Company intends to use the net proceeds from this offering for working capital and general corporate purposes.

In addition, the Company has granted Aegis Capital Corp. a 45-day option to purchase common shares and pre-funded warrants of up to 15% of the number of common shares and pre-funded warrants sold in the offering solely to cover over-allotments, if any. If this option is exercised in full, the total gross proceeds of the offering including over-allotments are expected to be approximately $2.5 million before deducting underwriting discounts, commissions and offering expenses.
The offering is expected to close on August 23, 2023, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

Aegis Capital Corp. is acting as the sole book-running manager for the offering.

This offering is being made pursuant to an effective shelf registration statement on Form S-3 (No. 333-259347), declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on November 16, 2021. A preliminary prospectus supplement and accompanying shelf prospectus describing the terms of the proposed offering have been filed with the SEC and are available on the SEC’s website located at http://www.sec.gov. Electronic copies of the preliminary prospectus supplement and the accompanying shelf prospectus may be obtained by contacting Aegis Capital Corp., Attention: Syndicate Department, 1345 Avenue of the Americas, 27th floor, New York, NY 10105, by email at [email protected], or by telephone at (212) 813-1010. Before investing in this offering, interested parties should read in their entirety the prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus and the other documents that the Company has filed with the SEC and that are incorporated by reference in such prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus, which provide more information about the Company and such offering.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

About Super League Gaming

Super League Gaming is a leading, strategically integrated publisher and creator of games and experiences across the world’s largest immersive digital platforms. From metaverse gaming powerhouses such as Roblox, Minecraft, and Fortnite, to the most popular web3 environments such as The Sandbox and Decentraland, to bespoke worlds built using the most advanced 3D creation tools, Super League’s innovative solutions provide incomparable access to massive audiences of consumers who gather in immersive digital spaces to socialize, play, explore, collaborate, shop, learn, and create. As a true end-to-end activation partner for dozens of global brands, Super League offers a complete range of development, distribution, monetization, and optimization capabilities designed to engage users through dynamic, energized programs. As an originator of new experiences designed by in-house creators and a network of top developers, a comprehensive set of proprietary creator tools, and a future-forward team of creative professionals, Super League accelerates IP and audience success within the fastest growing sector of the gaming and media industries. For more information about the Company, go to superleague.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements which involve substantial risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements are often identifiable by the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “might,” “objective,” “ongoing,” “plan,” “predict,” “project,” “potential,” “should,” “will,” or “would,” or the negative of these terms, or other comparable terminology intended to identify statements about the future. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Company’s actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from the information expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that it has a reasonable basis for making each forward-looking statement contained in this press release, the Company cautions that these statements are based on a combination of facts and factors currently known by the Company and its expectations of the future, about which the Company cannot be certain. Forward-looking statements are subject to considerable risks and uncertainties, as well as other factors that may cause the Company’s actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from the information expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, risks and uncertainties related to whether or not the Company will be able to raise capital through the sale of shares of Common Stock (or pre-funded warrants to purchase Common Stock in lieu thereof or in addition thereto) or otherwise; the final terms of the proposed offering; market conditions; satisfaction of customary closing conditions related to the public offering; the Company’s ability to maintain adequate liquidity and financing sources; various risks related to the Company’s business operations; and other risks and uncertainties, including those described within the section entitled “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, which risk factors are incorporated in the shelf prospectus and accompanying prospectus supplement by reference. There can be no assurance that the Company will be able to complete the public offering on the anticipated terms, or at all. The Company undertakes no obligation to update the information contained in this press release to reflect subsequently occurring events or circumstances, except as required by law.

Investor Relations Contact:

Shannon Devine
MZ North America
Main: 203-741-8811
[email protected]

Media Contact

Gillian Sheldon
[email protected]

Kiryat Ono, Israel, Aug. 21, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ParaZero Technologies Ltd. (Nasdaq: PRZO) (“ParaZero”), an aerospace company focused on drone safety systems for commercial drones and urban air mobility aircraft, today announced that one of its customers, Speedbird Aero, a world-leading innovator in drone delivery technology development and service provision, has achieved a significant milestone by successfully completing 10,000 operational delivery flights. These landmark deliveries encompass essential medical supplies, on-demand food delivery, and critical telecom components to communities worldwide. What makes this achievement even more remarkable is the unmatched safety and reliability ensured by the integration of mission-critical drone technologies, including ParaZero’s cutting-edge SafeAir parachute recovery systems throughout Speedbird Aero’s delivery drone fleet.

Speedbird Aero’s commitment to revolutionizing last-mile delivery has played a vital role in enhancing accessibility and efficiency in the delivery of essential goods across diverse landscapes, geographic regions, and urban environment settings.

Samuel Salomao, Speedbird’s Chief Product Officer, commented: “Our partnership with ParaZero has been instrumental in achieving this significant milestone of 10,000 operational delivery flights. The integration of ParaZero’s recovery systems has provided us with unmatched safety and reliability, ensuring the protection of our delivery operations and compliance with global safety regulations. This partnership has not only enhanced the safety aspect of our drone logistics but has also allowed us to expand our reach in delivering essential goods to diverse communities worldwide.”

“ParaZero’s SafeAir system has been a critical component in ensuring the safety and success of our drone delivery operations,” said Speedbird’s Head of Engineering, Mauro Tanure. “The system has proven to be highly effective in mitigating the risks associated with in-flight emergencies or drone malfunctions. We prioritize safety above all else, and with ParaZero’s technology, we have further improved the reliability and robustness of our delivery drone fleet.”

“Speedbird Aero is a global leading player in aerial logistics, and continues to demonstrate their world-class capabilities through various drone delivery initiatives around the world. We’re incredibly proud of our ongoing partnership with their team and look forward to continue supporting their safety-first ethos,” said ParaZero CEO Boaz Shetzer.

ParaZero’s SafeAir recovery system has been an integral part of Speedbird Aero’s success story, ensuring the safety of the delivery operations and compliant with global, performance-based regulations pertaining to safety. Designed with state-of-the-art engineering and precision, ParaZero’s safety solution provides unparalleled protection in the event of drone malfunctions or in-flight emergencies. With Speedbird Aero’s extensive utilization of the SafeAir system, they have showcased an unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards in their delivery operations, as well as the robustness and reliability of the ParaZero SafeAir parachute system.

About Speedbird Aero

Speedbird Aero (https://www.speedbird.aero) is the first company in Brazil and Latin America to develop and operate unmanned aerial systems (drones) to perform air transportation and delivery of products and medicines.  In 2019, Speedbird started the certification process of the first remotely piloted multirotor aircraft in Brazil, and the company’s goal is to continue developing drone delivery with its partners’ support and under the supervision of Brazilian aeronautical entities.

About ParaZero

ParaZero ( https://parazero.com/ ) is a world-leading developer of autonomous parachute safety systems for commercial drone and urban air mobility (UAM) aircraft. Started in 2014 by a passionate group of aviation professionals and drone industry veterans, ParaZero designs smart, autonomous parachute safety systems designed to enable safe flight operations over populated areas and beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS).

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act and other securities laws. Words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks,” “estimates” and similar expressions or variations of such words are intended to identify forward-looking statements. For example, the Company is using forward-looking statements when it discusses its role in supporting customers and the potential of the company’s products. Forward-looking statements are not historical facts, and are based upon management’s current expectations, beliefs and projections, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain. Such expectations, beliefs and projections are expressed in good faith. However, there can be no assurance that management’s expectations, beliefs and projections will be achieved, and actual results may differ materially from what is expressed in or indicated by the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements. For a more detailed description of the risks and uncertainties affecting the Company, reference is made to the Company’s reports filed from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including, but not limited to, the risks detailed in the Company’s final prospectus (Registration No. 333-265178) dated July 26, 2023. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date the statements are made. The Company assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, subsequent events or circumstances, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors affecting forward-looking information except to the extent required by applicable securities laws. If the Company does update one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that the Company will make additional updates with respect thereto or with respect to other forward-looking statements. References and links to websites have been provided as a convenience, and the information contained on such websites is not incorporated by reference into this press release. ParaZero is not responsible for the contents of third-party websites.

Investor Relations Contact:

Michal Efraty
Investor Relations, Israel
+972-(0)52-3044404
[email protected]

Innovative Digital Platform Provides Solutions to Holiday 


Planning, Decorating, Cooking and Entertaining

Content Features Highlighted By “Ask Santa,” DIY Craft Tutorials, Advent Calendars, Wish Lists and More

BOCA RATON, Fla., Aug. 21, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Curiosity Ink Media, a subsidiary of Grom Social Enterprises, Inc. (NASDAQ: GROM), announced today an enhanced interface for SANTA.COM, its dynamic holiday destination brimming with e-commerce and robust content for every member of the family. A high-utility resource, the site is a technology-driven solution for the busiest and most stressful time of the year, helping families globally create a magical yuletide experience.

Under the direction of SANTA.COM’s recently-installed General Manager, Savannah Brentnall, the holiday hub brings a wide-range of tools. For adults, SANTA.COM features a robust, curated e-commerce marketplace where features, such as “The List” inform users about the most buzzed-about new products, styles and toys; “The Guides” offer curated gifting insights based on themes and consumer interests; and “The Ideas” suggest easy, holiday-inspired decorating and planning tips, as well as memory-making recipes for holiday treats. Additionally, family members have access to all-new DIY content with step-by-step instructions to create ornaments, garlands, centerpieces and more with their kids.

For kids, SANTA.COM brings the excitement and anticipation of the season to their fingertips with a fun and engaging North Pole experience filled with games and activities. Whether jumping rooftops with reindeer, stacking cookies with Mrs. Claus, or helping elves sort gifts, young SANTA.COM visitors will be able to explore new games and activities daily. As they countdown to Christmas, kids can also create and send their wish lists to Santa (which can be accessed by their parents in a few easy-to-follow steps).

“Almost 90% of Millennial moms say they’d rather be spending time with family and friends during the holiday season than shopping for gifts, and yet they expect to spend an average of 14 hours shopping and planning¹,” said Brentnall. “SANTA.COM aims to turn that time into a long-lasting opportunity to create cherished family memories.”

The site, part of Grom’s growing stable of family-friendly brands following its 2021 acquisition of Curiosity Ink Media, continues to build on its mission to help consumers ease the stress often associated with holiday preparations. A modern update on Christmas, SANTA.COM is a bold, eye-catching stocking filled with a marketplace where consumers can fulfill all of their holiday needs. The brainchild of Curiosity Ink Media executive and former Nickelodeon president Russell Hicks, the site was developed by a team of experts in e-commerce, editorial content, interactive games, and ground-breaking design. Its sophisticated, playful motif, easy-to-navigate features, and awe-inspiring winter wonderland capture the spirit and essence of Santa’s North Pole. 

SANTA.COM places Grom and Curiosity Ink Media squarely in the booming e-commerce business, giving the company a role in the explosive and growing holiday market, projected to grow 12.8% to 14.3% over last year (2022) to top $260 billion this season.*

Follow SANTA.COM on social media via Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Threads and TikTok.

About Curiosity Ink Media



Curiosity Ink Media
is the original storytelling and Intellectual Property (IP)-generating subsidiary of Grom Social Enterprises, Inc. Fueled by imagination, creativity and a clear focus on commercial franchise potential, the Hollywood-based kids and family entertainment group specializes in feature films (Santa.com, The Pirate Princess, Thunderous); linear and streaming series (Cats vs Pickles, Hey Fuzzy Yellow, Denver the Last Dinosaur); publishing (Baldwin’s Big Adventure, PAW Patrol: Pawsome Puppets), digital and e-commerce platforms (Santa.com); franchise-building and licensing partnerships (Cats vs Pickles, VS World, Denver the Last Dinosaur). Curiosity Ink Media’s library of entertainment properties is designed to amass ongoing value for the company and its partners.

About Grom Social Enterprises, Inc.


Grom Social Enterprises, Inc. is a growing social media platform and original content provider of entertainment for children under 13 years of age, which provides safe and secure digital environments for kids that can be monitored by their parents or guardians. The Company has several operating subsidiaries, including Grom Social, which delivers its content through mobile and desktop environments (web portal and apps) that entertain children, let them interact with friends, access relevant news, and play proprietary games while teaching them about being good digital citizens. The Company owns and operates Top Draw Animation, which produces award-winning animation content for some of the largest international media companies in the world. Grom also includes Grom Educational Services, which has provided web filtering services for K-12 schools, government and private businesses. For more information, please visit https://gromsocial.com.

Forward-Looking Statements


This press release contains statements, which may constitute “forward-looking statements.” Those statements include statements regarding the intent, belief, or current expectations of Grom and members of its management team as well as the assumptions on which such statements are based. Such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, and that actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by such forward-looking statements. Important factors currently known to management that may cause actual results to differ from those anticipated are discussed throughout the Company’s reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission which are available at www.sec.gov as well as the Company’s website at www.gromsocial.com. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events, or changes to future operating results.

Media Contact:

Briana Richard
42West for Curiosity Ink Media
[email protected]

Paul Ward
Grom Social Enterprises, Inc.
1-917-593-6066
[email protected]

______________________________

¹ *According to Deloitte’s annual holiday retail forecast. The Microsoft Store Survey was conducted by Wakefield Research (www.wakefieldresearch.com) among 1,000 nationally representative U.S. millennial moms, defined as those ages 25-40 with children ages 17 or under, between Oct. 19 and Oct. 25, 2021, using an email invitation and an online survey. Data has been weighted to ensure accurate representation of U.S. millennial moms.

Martie Edmunds Zakas to Serve as Chief Executive Officer

Steve Heinrichs Named Chief Financial Officer; Paul McAndrew Promoted to Chief Operating Officer

Initiates Search for Permanent CEO

Reaffirms Full-Year Fiscal 2023 Earnings Outlook

ATLANTA, Aug. 21, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Mueller Water Products, Inc. (NYSE: MWA) (“Mueller” or the “Company”) today announced that Marietta (“Martie”) Edmunds Zakas, the Company’s Chief Financial Officer, has been appointed to the role of Chief Executive Officer as the Company conducts a search for a permanent CEO. Scott Hall has stepped down as President, CEO and member of the Board of Directors (the “Board”). Steven (“Steve”) S. Heinrichs, current Executive Vice President, Chief Legal and Compliance Officer and Corporate Secretary, will serve as Chief Financial Officer and Chief Legal and Compliance Officer while this transition is underway. In addition, Paul McAndrew, Senior Vice President, Operations and Supply Chain, has been appointed Chief Operating Officer. Mr. Hall will serve in an advisory role at the Company to ensure a smooth transition. These changes are effective immediately.

“We are delighted to have Martie serve as Chief Executive Officer,” said Mark J. O’Brien, Board Chair. “Having been a member of the Company’s leadership for 16 years, Martie has a deep understanding of our business and strategy and has demonstrated passion and commitment to our people and mission. The Board is confident that under Martie’s leadership, we will continue delivering on our strategic initiatives to achieve net sales growth and margin expansion for the benefit of all stakeholders, including our shareholders.”

“Steve and Paul are proven executives, and we are thrilled to be expanding their leadership roles at Mueller,” continued Mr. O’Brien. “Steve is deeply invested in Mueller’s financial and operational success and Paul has a long and successful track record in operational, engineering and sales leadership positions at leading global companies. In less than a year since he joined the Company, Paul has already made a tremendous impact and we look forward to him taking on an expanded role across the organization to drive operational excellence and deliver industry-leading customer service. We are confident in the future of Mueller as we enter this next phase of leadership.”

Ms. Zakas said, “It is a privilege to take on this responsibility as we position Mueller for continued growth. We have a strong team in place and clear growth and margin-enhancing opportunities, supported by the future benefits from the federal infrastructure bill funding and ramp-up of our new brass foundry in 2024. During my time at Mueller, I have admired the talented women and men who are committed to excellence, innovation and execution each and every day. I look forward to working with Steve and Paul in their new roles and the entire leadership team as we navigate the external environment and focus on enhancing our customer experience, executing our operational initiatives and building on our strong foundation as a provider of products and solutions for our critical water infrastructure.”

Mr. O’Brien concluded, “On behalf of the entire Board, I want to thank Scott for his contributions and years of service to Mueller. The Board and Scott determined that at this stage in the Company’s transformation, with our capital investment phase nearing completion, the time is right to bring in a new leader to help Mueller achieve its potential as America’s water infrastructure is rebuilt. Scott has been a driving force in positioning the Company for long-term success, and we are appreciative that we will continue to benefit from his knowledge through this leadership transition period. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”

Mr. Hall said, “It has been an honor to lead Mueller for the last six years. Mueller has an excellent team of dedicated employees who will continue to drive the Company’s future success. I look forward to assisting in this transition, and I am confident that Martie, Steve, Paul, the Board and the talented management team will continue to provide steady leadership for the Company.”

The Company will retain a leading executive search firm to assist in a comprehensive search process to identify a permanent CEO, with both internal and external candidates being considered.

The Company also reaffirmed its full-year fiscal 2023 outlook as stated in the Company’s Q3 2023 earnings press release.

Update on Proactive and Accelerated Board Refreshment Plan

The Company is committed to further refreshing the Board by adding new directors with fresh perspectives in the near term to further align the Board’s experience and skills with the Company’s strategic direction. The previously announced accelerated refreshment plan calls for members of the Board with more than 10 years of service to depart no later than the 2026 Annual Meeting. As part of this plan, two Board members, Mark J. O’Brien and Michael (“Mike”) T. Tokarz, have indicated they will not stand for re-election to the Board at the 2024 Annual Meeting. As part of its ongoing commitment to Board refreshment, Mueller is continuing to identify and evaluate outstanding candidates with skills and experience to enhance the Company’s Board. In addition, Ms. Zakas has been appointed as a member of the Board.

“I would like to extend my gratitude to Mark and Mike for their significant contributions to Mueller since it was spun off as an independent, publicly-traded company,” said Dr. Lydia W. Thomas, Chair of the Board’s Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. “Throughout their tenures on the Board, they have each provided valuable expertise and guidance that has supported Mueller in successfully advancing our strategy and driving value for all our stakeholders. I wish them both well in their next chapters.”

Update on Cooperation Agreement with Ancora

Current Board members Brian L. Slobodow and Karl Niclas Ytterdahl will be nominated by the Board to stand for reelection to the Board at the 2024 Annual Meeting. As a result, under the terms of the existing cooperation agreement between the Company and Ancora Holdings Group, LLC and its affiliates (“Ancora”), the standstill, voting commitments and other provisions applicable to Ancora have been automatically extended.

About Martie Edmunds Zakas

Martie Zakas previously served as the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Mueller Water Products since 2018 and has extensive leadership experience in finance, strategy and implementing proven strategies to deliver value. She has directed Mueller’s strategic planning, investor relations and corporate communications activities since 2006. Prior to joining the Company, Ms. Zakas spent five years in a variety of senior leadership roles at Russell Corporation, a $1.4 billion athletic apparel, footwear and equipment company prior to its 2006 acquisition by Berkshire Hathaway. From 1993 to 2000, Ms. Zakas served as corporate vice president, director of investor relations and corporate secretary for Equifax, Inc., a global data, analytics and technology company. Ms. Zakas began her career as an investment banker at Morgan Stanley. Ms. Zakas earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Randolph-Macon Woman’s College (now known as Randolph College), a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Virginia Darden School of Business and a Juris Doctor from the University of Virginia School of Law. Ms. Zakas is a director of BlueLinx Holdings, Inc., a former director of Atlantic Capital Bancshares, Inc. and serves on the Board of Trustees of the University of Virginia Darden School Foundation.

About Steve Heinrichs

Steve Heinrichs previously served as the Executive Vice President, Chief Legal and Compliance Officer and Corporate Secretary of Mueller Water Products. Prior to joining Mueller in August 2018, Mr. Heinrichs served as Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of Neenah, Inc., a leading global specialty materials company. For the past 25 years, Mr. Heinrichs has engaged in both private practice and in-house legal counsel roles for public and private companies. Mr. Heinrichs earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Virginia, a Juris Doctor from Tulane University Law School, and a Master of Business Administration from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. In addition to his extensive legal background, Mr. Heinrichs has deep experience with strategic planning, finance and treasury matters, securities regulation and disclosure, financial compliance, risk management, tax compliance and planning, and mergers and acquisitions.

About Paul McAndrew

Paul McAndrew previously served as Senior Vice President of Global Operations and Supply Chain at Mueller Water Products since joining the Company in 2022, overseeing the Company’s global manufacturing operations and supply chain. He is a seasoned global operating executive with strong leadership experience in operations, engineering and sales. Prior to Mueller, Mr. McAndrew worked at Emerson as a Vice President and General Manager of Professional Tools. There he held full P&L responsibility and leadership across all functions, including sales and marketing, product management and engineering, operations and supply chain and human resources. From 2003 to 2017, Mr. McAndrew worked at Kautex Textron, serving in various operating roles in multiple countries. Mr. McAndrew earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Cardiff University.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains certain statements that may be deemed “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws. All statements that address activities, events or developments that the Company intends, expects, plans, projects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements regarding outlooks, projections, forecasts, expectations, commitments, trend descriptions and the ability to capitalize on trends, value creation, Board and committee composition plans, long-term strategies and the execution or acceleration thereof, operational improvements, inventory positions, the benefits of capital investments, financial or operating performance including improving sales growth and driving increased margins, capital allocation and growth strategy plans, the Company’s product portfolio positioning and the demand for the Company’s products. Forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions and assessments made by the Company in light of the Company’s experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments. Actual results and the timing of events may differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including, without limitation, the factors that are described in the section entitled “RISK FACTORS” in Item 1A of the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on November 18, 2022, and later filings with the SEC on Form 10-Q. Forward-looking statements do not guarantee future performance and are only as of the date they are made. The Company undertakes no duty to update its forward-looking statements except as required by law. Undue reliance should not be placed on any forward-looking statements. You are advised to review any further disclosures the Company makes on related subjects in subsequent Forms 10-K, 10-Q, 8-K and other reports filed with the SEC.

About Mueller Water Products, Inc.

Mueller Water Products, Inc. is a leading manufacturer and marketer of products and services used in the transmission, distribution and measurement of water in North America. Our broad product and service portfolio includes engineered valves, fire hydrants, pipe connection and repair products, metering products, leak detection, pipe condition assessment, pressure management products, and software technology that provides critical water system data. We help municipalities increase operational efficiencies, improve customer service and prioritize capital spending, demonstrating why Mueller Water Products is Where Intelligence Meets Infrastructure^®. Visit us at www.muellerwaterproducts.com.

Mueller refers to one or more of Mueller Water Products, Inc. (MWP), a Delaware corporation, and its subsidiaries. MWP and each of its subsidiaries are legally separate and independent entities when providing products and services. MWP does not provide products or services to third parties. MWP and each of its subsidiaries are liable only for their own acts and omissions and not those of each other. Mueller brands include Mueller

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, and U.S. Pipe Valve & Hydrant. Please see muellerwp.com/brands to learn more.

Investor Relations and Media Contact: Whit Kincaid
770-206-4116
[email protected]

BOSTON, Aug. 21, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Duck Creek Technologies, the intelligent solutions provider defining the future of property and casualty (P&C) and general insurance, is delighted to announce its partnership with Risk Control Technologies (“RCT”), a frontrunner in risk data management software for underwriting and loss control teams. Duck Creek will be a silver sponsor of RCT’s Loss Control Summit conference for loss control professionals from August 21-23, 2023, to kick off their partnership in Toronto, Canada.

At the heart of Duck Creek’s core solutions is Duck Creek Policy, a cutting-edge platform that offers low-code tools through a Software as a Service (SaaS) model. This platform facilitates the entire lifecycle of insurance operations and seamlessly integrates with esteemed industry collaborators. Through these synergies, insurers gain access to solutions that enhance underwriting performance, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency.

The essence of loss control management resides in preemptive risk mitigation and extended risk assessment coverage. RCT enables carriers to optimize and significantly increase their risk data coverage across their entire book of business. In addition to mitigating more claims, it positively impacts their renewal rates while also creating efficiencies for underwriters within Duck Creek. All of this helps carriers improve their loss ratios, strengthen their customer engagements, and drive impactful operational efficiencies.

“Our partnership with a pinnacle player in loss control management equips Duck Creek’s customers to optimize both the quality and extent of coverage extended to policyholders,” said Robert Fletcher, Sr. Partner Manager, Duck Creek Technologies. “RCT’s data-driven risk management solution is paramount, especially for insurers engaged in underwriting property, casualty and workers comp lines of business. We look forward to continuing to cultivate our partnership and engaging with RCT’s customers at the upcoming Loss Control Summit in Toronto.”

“The strength of our business at RCT rests firmly with our innovative customers and our industry-leading partners,” said David Da Costa, CEO, Risk Control Technologies. “We’re excited to work with Duck Creek, one of the most transformative leaders in the insurance solutions market today. In addition to efficiencies gained by integrating, combining loss control data with data already in Duck Creek, such as claim data, creates significant value from being able to better predict claims or optimize pricing within your book. We’re excited to continue our partnership with a leading partner like Duck Creek.”

About Risk Control Technologies

Risk Control Technologies Inc. (RCT) is the leading provider of Risk Management and Loss Control software to the insurance industry. RCT’s RiskHub platform helps underwriting assess risk, and leverage the appropriate risk assessment tool based on the risk’s complexity. RCT helps over 150 insurance organizations improve their loss ratios, increase customer retention, implement operational efficiencies, and harness powerful data insights to enable better business decisions. RCT’s customers include a wide range of insurance organization types, operating across a broad variety of lines of business. For more information, visit www.riskcontroltech.com.

About Duck Creek Technologies

Duck Creek Technologies is the intelligent solutions provider defining the future of the property and casualty (P&C) and general insurance industry. We are the platform upon which modern insurance systems are built, enabling the industry to capitalize on the power of the cloud to run agile, intelligent, and evergreen operations. Authenticity, purpose, and transparency are core to Duck Creek, and we believe insurance should be there for individuals and businesses when, where, and how they need it most. Our market-leading solutions are available on a standalone basis or as a full suite, and all are available via Duck Creek OnDemand. Visit www.duckcreek.com to learn more. Follow Duck Creek on our social channels for the latest information – LinkedIn and Twitter.

Media Contacts:

Carley Bunch
[email protected] 

Visit AgEagle at
Exhibit Booth #223 at Commercial UAV Expo 2023 in

Las Vegas on September 5-7, 2023
;
And
Industry
Events in

Australia, Taiwan,
Poland, United Kingdom, Spain, Japan
and Thailand

WICHITA, Kan., Aug. 21, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —



AgEagle


Aerial Systems Inc


.

(NYSE American: UAVS) (“AgEagle” or the “Company”), an ​industry-leading​ provider of full stack flight hardware, sensors and software for commercial and government use, today announced that the Company will be exhibiting in Booth #223 at Commercial UAV Expo 2023 to be held in Las Vegas at Caesars Forum on September 5-7, 2023.

The Commercial UAV Expo, presented by Commercial UAV News, is the leading international trade fair and conference focusing on the integration and operation of commercial unmanned aerial systems. Industries covered include Construction, Drone Delivery, Energy & Utilities, Forestry & Agriculture, Mining & Aggregates, Infrastructure & Transportation, Public Safety & Emergency Services, Security and Surveying & Mapping. This year’s conference will feature 200+ best-in-class exhibitors, host over 2,500 attendees from over 40 countries and provide engaging keynotes and panel discussions throughout the event. Company officials will be available for one-on-one product demos and discussions and interviews with the media. AgEagle’s customers and business partners are eligible to receive Exhibit Hall registrations at no charge. To arrange free registrations, please contact [email protected].

In addition, AgEagle has been invited to participate in a number of industry events in partnership with several of its trusted value added resellers from late August through November 2023, and include:

• 
  AFAC23 Conference & Exhibition
  | Brisbane, Australia | August, 22-25, 2023 | VAR: Falcon UAV
• 
  Conference on Surveying and Geomatics
  | Hsinchu City, Taiwan | August, 31 to September, 1, 2023 | VAR: Kang Ying Enterprises
• 
  MSPO 2023 – The International Defense Industry Exhibition
  | Kielce, Poland | September 5-8, 2023 | VAR: Dilectro | Booth #H-42
• 
  DSEI 2023 – Defense and Security Equipment International
  | London, United Kingdom | September 12-15, 2023 | VAR:Brigantes | Booth #H2-405
• 
  Expondrónica
  Air Show 2023
  | Madrid, Spain | September 27-28, 2023 | VAR: tecniTop
• 
  SEECAT 2023 – The Special Equipment Exhibition & Conference for Anti-Terrorism
  | Tokyo, Japan | October 11-13, 2023 | VARs: JEPICO Corporation and GeoSurf Corporation
• 
  Defense and Security 2023
  | Muang Thong Thani, Thailand | November 6-9, 2023 | VAR: SKYVIV

“We are looking forward to forging new relationships with potential customers and new strategic business partners, as well as further expanding our relationships with existing customers and other AgEagle stakeholders at these leading trade events over the next three months. The vital role that these types of events provide in helping to educate prospective buyers on the competitive differentiation and value propositions of AgEagle’s leading edge UAS solutions cannot be underestimated. We are especially excited about using these events to shine a spotlight on our latest drone innovations, including our new eBee VISION,” stated Barrett Mooney, AgEagle’s Chairman and CEO.

About AgEagle Aerial Systems Inc. 
Through its three centers of excellence, AgEagle is actively engaged in designing and delivering best-in-class flight hardware, sensors and software that solve important problems for its customers. Founded in 2010, AgEagle was originally formed to pioneer proprietary, professional-grade, fixed-winged drones and aerial imagery-based data collection and analytics solutions for the agriculture industry. Today, AgEagle is a leading provider of full stack drone solutions for customers worldwide in the energy, construction, agriculture, and government verticals. For additional information, please visit our website at www.ageagle.com. 

Forward-Looking Statements
 
This press release may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Such statements involve risks and uncertainties that could negatively affect our business, operating results, financial condition, and stock price. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from management’s current expectations include those risks and uncertainties relating to our competitive position, the industry environment, potential growth opportunities, and the effects of regulation and events outside of our control, such as natural disasters, wars, or health epidemics. We expressly disclaim any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in our expectations or any changes in events, conditions, or circumstances on which any such statement is based, except as required by law. 

 AgEagle Aerial Systems Contacts: 

Investor Relations:

Email: [email protected]

Media: 
Email: [email protected]