The Walt Disney Company Executives to Discuss Fiscal Second Quarter 2021 Financial Results Via Webcast

The Walt Disney Company Executives to Discuss Fiscal Second Quarter 2021 Financial Results Via Webcast

BURBANK, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
The Walt Disney Company (NYSE: DIS) will discuss fiscal second quarter 2021 financial results via a live audio webcast beginning at 4:30 p.m. ET / 1:30 p.m. PT on Thursday, May 13, 2021.

Results will be released after the close of regular trading on May 13, 2021.

To listen to the webcast, please visit www.disney.com/investors. The webcast presentation will be archived.

Lowell Singer

Investor Relations

(818) 560-6601

Zenia Mucha

Corporate Communications

(818) 560-5300

KEYWORDS: California United States North America

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: TV and Radio Theme Parks Entertainment Film & Motion Pictures

MEDIA:

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Pennsylvania American Water Addresses Most Common Household Leaks During Fix a Leak Week

Pennsylvania American Water Addresses Most Common Household Leaks During Fix a Leak Week

Up to 77 percent of Americans have reported seeing signs of a water leak, according to recent American Water survey on household leaks

MECHANICSBURG, Pa.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
More than two in three Americans have experienced a leak at their home, according to a recent survey conducted by global research agency Opinium on behalf of Pennsylvania American Water in an effort to better understand Americans’ awareness of household leaks.

The results coincide with the annual recognition of Fix a Leak Week (March 15-21, 2021), a national campaign led by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) each year that helps raise awareness about leaks and other water issues that contribute to water waste within homes.

This year’s Fix a Leak Week comes as we approach the one-year mark of COVID-19, when many people began spending more time indoors and water usage increased. In fact, since the start of the public health emergency, about a quarter of Americans say they have been using more water, meaning it’s more important than ever to be aware of common issues and know how to spot them.

“By conducting our survey, we were able to take a comprehensive snapshot of where we stand when it comes to water leaks and water conservation during this unprecedented time,” said Mike Doran, president of Pennsylvania American Water. “As part of our mission in helping to better serve customers, we are using this year’s Fix a Leak Week to help people understand where and how to spot common problematic leaks to help improve home safety and support water efficiency and conservation.”

  • More than half of Americans have experienced leaks in their bathroom (52%) and kitchen (50%). Here are some ways to keep track of some of those common leaks:
    • Test your toilet. Place a drop of food coloring in the toilet tank. If any color shows up in the bowl after 10 minutes, you have a leak. (Flush immediately after the experiment to avoid staining the tank.)
    • Watch what you put down the drain. There are many things we put down the drain that don’t belong there. Check out our list of what should never go down your drain for items that may be hurting your pipes.
  • Up to 77% of Americans reported seeing signs of a potential water leak. Checking up on this can be as easy as doing the following:
    • Examine faucet gaskets and pipe fittings. Look for any water on the outside of the pipe to identify any leaks.
    • Check outside. Examine the exterior of your home if you think you have a leak. If hoses are left on even a little, they can drip, resulting in wasted water over time. Irrigation systems can leak underground, causing mushy sod and other above-ground indications of issues.
  • Nearly a quarter of Americans report using more water since the beginning of the pandemic. Here’s what you can do if you’re worried about your water usage:
    • Keep track of water usage, especially during cold winter months. If, during January or February, a family of four exceeds 12,000 gallons per month, there might be a leak.

Pennsylvania American Water is committed to fixing leaks by replacing or upgrading water infrastructure in order to provide clean, safe, reliable water to customers. Over the next 10 years, American Water will be investing $22 to $25 billion to replace and upgrade pipes, pumps, treatment and storage. Visit here for more information about Fix a Leak Week.

About Pennsylvania American Water

Pennsylvania American Water, a subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), is the largest investor-owned water utility in the state, providing high-quality and reliable water and/or wastewater services to approximately 2.4 million people. With a history dating back to 1886, American Water is the largest and most geographically diverse U.S. publicly traded water and wastewater utility company. The company employs more than 7,000 dedicated professionals who provide regulated and market-based drinking water, wastewater and other related services to an estimated 15 million people in 46 states. American Water provides safe, clean, affordable and reliable water services to our customers to make sure we keep their lives flowing. For more information, visit amwater.com and follow American Water on Twitter,Facebook and LinkedIn.

Media Contacts

Northeast PA:

Susan Turcmanovich, External Affairs Manager

C: 570-332-6726

E: [email protected]

Southeast/Central PA:

Maggie Sheely, External Affairs Manager

C: 717-317-3762

E: [email protected]

Western PA:

Gary Lobaugh, External Affairs Manager

C: 724-873-3674

E: [email protected]

KEYWORDS: United States North America Pennsylvania

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Utilities Environment Residential Building & Real Estate Commercial Building & Real Estate Energy Construction & Property Building Systems

MEDIA:

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IFBC Announce Its Interest in CBD

PLAINVIEW, NY, March 15, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — via NewMediaWire – Italian Food & Beverage Corp. (OTC- IFBC): IFBC is now exploring the possibility to bring to market a new and exciting product to be added to its consumer beverage offerings. The company is looking to produce, market and distribute its own brand of Canned Coffee infused with CBD, short for cannabidiol, a compound found in the cannabis plant which seems to deliver the calming benefits of marijuana without the high that comes from THC.

This could be a natural fit for IFBC, having established itself by way of its Energy Drink in a number of retail stores including “vaping outlets” already offering a variety of CBD products. In addition, some of IFBC’s chain store clients currently purvey CBD water, a natural add-on for the CBD canned coffee. The CBD Market is expected to reach $22 billion by 2022, according to the research of the Brightfield Group.

Years of scientific research clearly indicate that CBD users do not suffer any ill-effects from its continued use. In fact, the overwhelming majority are very satisfied with its salutary effects, which help relieve anxiety, aid in promoting sound sleep and ease chronic pain. Its advocates range from physicians, veterinarians, psychologists and physical therapists. The US Farm Bill, which was signed in December of 2020, legalized hemp.

Most of the CBD which has hit the shelves in the US is derived from the hemp plant, which contains less than 0.3 percent THC, the psychoactive chemical in the weed. Hemp’s close cousin, marijuana, can contain upwards of 10 percent THC.  In order to achieve the optimal results, the proper dosage must be administered. Some purveyors recommend six milligrams of CBD when taken as a tincture or when added to food products. Others recommend at least 30 mg.

Dino Luzzi, Chairman of IFBC, was quick to express his enthusiasm for the Company’s attempt to explore a CBD-infused coffee product. He stated, “The economic dampening from Covid has led us to seek the possibility of offering a new product which could be a natural fit for our client base, and could be enhancing shareholder value for a product for which there is no dominant player in the industry. We can position our new product through our existing channels of distribution and have this coffee synergistically share shelf space and exposure right next to our Energy Drink, currently also available online without shipping charges at https://stinaprovision.com/.”

Forward-Looking Statements: This release contains “forward-looking statements” and information provided by Italian Food & Beverage Corp. such as online, printed documents, publications or information available via its website. It may contain certain forward-looking statements that involve risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors, which, if they do not materialize or prove correct, could cause the Company’s results to differ materially from historical results, or those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements. These statements may also include plans, strategies and objectives of management for future operations; any statements regarding proposed new products, services or developments; any statements regarding future economic conditions or performance; statements of belief; and any statements of assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. There can be no assurance that the negotiations being considered by the letter of intent will be completed.

Contact info: 
[email protected]



Globus Maritime Limited to Participate in M Vest LLC and Maxim Group LLC Inaugural Emerging Growth Virtual Conference

Presenting Innovative Small and Mid-Cap Companies in Healthcare, Industrials, Electric Vehicles, TMT, and Consumer Products

GLYFADA, Greece, March 15, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Globus Maritime Limited (the “Company” or “Globus”) (NASDAQ: GLBS), a dry bulk shipping company, announced today that Company CEO Athanasios Feidakis has been invited to present at Inaugural Emerging Growth Virtual Conference, presented by M Vest LLC and Maxim Group LLC. The conference will take place on March 17th – 19th from 9:00 am-5:00 pm EST featuring roundtable discussions with C-suite executives moderated by Maxim Research Analysts, fireside chats with live Q&A, and presentations from hundreds of issuers both domestically and internationally.

During this virtual conference, Globus Maritime Limited will present along with other important voices in the Shipping Industry. You will also hear from healthcare leaders treating a broad range of indications; cannabis entrepreneurs exploring the changing landscape; tech innovators changing how we work and play, and industrial executives setting new standards. The conference will feature roundtable discussions, issuer presentations, fireside chats, and live Q&A with company CEOs moderated by Maxim Research Analysts. To attend and access exclusive content, just sign up to become an M-Vest member and stay tuned for more updates.

To learn more about presenting and attending, sign up for M-Vest HERE.


About Globus Maritime Limited

Globus is an integrated dry bulk shipping company that provides marine transportation services worldwide and presently owns, operates and manages a fleet of six dry bulk vessels that transport iron ore, coal, grain, steel products, cement, alumina and other dry bulk cargoes internationally. Globus’ subsidiaries own and operate six vessels with a total carrying capacity of 381,738 Dwt and a weighted average age of 11.2 years as of December 31, 2020.


About M Vest LLC


M Vest LLC is an online investment bank and digital community built for issuers, investors, and thought leaders to share information and access investment opportunities through capital raisings of Regulation D and Regulation A Offerings. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in New York City, M-Vest provides insights on current equity market trends, hosts presentations from public companies, and provides access to capital for emerging growth companies. M-Vest hosts live conferences and webinars featuring CEOs discussing the latest developments in their industries. M Vest LLC is a registered broker-dealer with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), is a member of FINRA and SIPC, and is a sister company of Maxim Group, LLC.


About Maxim Group LLC

Maxim Group LLC is a full-service investment banking, securities and wealth management firm headquartered in New York. The Firm provides a full array of financial services including investment banking; private wealth management; and global institutional equity, fixed-income and derivatives sales & trading, equity research and prime brokerage services. Maxim Group is a registered broker-dealer with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board (MSRB). Member of FINRA SIPC, and NASDAQ. To learn more about Maxim Group, visit maximgrp.com.

For further information please contact:

Beth Amorosi, AMO Communications
917-208-7489 
[email protected]

Globus Maritime Limited +30 210 960 8300
Athanasios Feidakis, CEO
[email protected]

Capital Link – New York +1 212 661 7566
Nicolas Bornozis
[email protected]



CryptoStar Corp. Announces Closing of CAD$25 Million Private Placement with Institutional Investors

Canada NewsWire


/NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES
OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES/

TSXV: CSTR

TORONTO, March 15, 2021 /CNW/ – CryptoStar Corp. (TSXV: CSTR) (“CryptoStar” or the “Company“), a cryptocurrency mining and data centre operator, is pleased to announce that it has closed its previously announced private placement of its common shares (“Common Shares“) and warrants to purchase common shares (“Warrants“) to institutional investors for gross proceeds of approximately CAD$25.0 million (the “Private Placement“). Pursuant to the Private Placement, the Company issued 83,333,334 Common Shares and Warrants to purchase 83,333,334 Common Shares at a purchase price of CAD$0.30 per Common Share and associated Warrant. Each Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one Common Share at an exercise price of CAD$0.40 per Common Share for a period of three and one-half (3.5) years following the closing date of the Private Placement.

H.C. Wainwright & Co. acted as the exclusive placement agent for the Private Placement.

The net proceeds of the Private Placement are expected to be used by the Company for business operations and expansion of its business, to reduce indebtedness and for general working capital purposes.

H.C. Wainwright & Co. received (i) a cash commission equal to 7.0% of the gross proceeds of the Private Placement and (ii) 5,833,333 non-transferable broker warrants (the “Broker Warrants“). Each Broker Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one common share at an exercise price of CAD$0.375 for a period of three and one-half (3.5) years following the closing date of the Private Placement.

No securities were offered or sold to Canadian residents in connection with the Private Placement. The securities issued under the Private Placement are subject to resale restrictions in the United States under applicable U.S. federal and state securities laws with no resale restrictions in Canada.

This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. This news release does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in the United States. The securities offered have not been, nor will they be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and such securities may not be offered or sold within the United States absent registration under U.S. federal and state securities laws or an applicable exemption from such U.S. registration requirements.

About CryptoStar Corp.:

CryptoStar has cryptocurrency mining operations with data centres located in the U.S.A. and Canada. CryptoStar is currently dedicated to becoming one of the lowest cost cryptocurrency producers in North America and a major supplier of GPU and ASIC miners worldwide.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange (“TSXV“) nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as, “expects”, “is expected”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results “may” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements include those relating to the use of net proceeds from the Private Placement. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance and are based upon a number of estimates and assumptions of management in light of management’s experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, as well as other factors that management believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances. Actual results, performance or achievement could differ materially from that expressed in, or implied by, any forward-looking statements in this press release, and, accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements and they are not guarantees of future results. Forward-looking statements involve significant risks, assumptions, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual future results or anticipated events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, CryptoStar undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

SOURCE CryptoStar Corp.

Hemp, Inc. Highlighted as a Major Player in the Industrial Hemp Market by Verified Market Research Report

Las Vegas, NV, March 15, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

 via NewMediaWire — Hemp, Inc. (OTC PINK: HEMP), a global leader in the industrial hemp industry with bi-coastal processing centers, was highlighted as one of the major players in the industrial hemp industry in a new report by Verified Market Research. The report says the industrial hemp market was valued at $5.66 billion in 2020 and is projected to reach $27.72 billion, globally, by year 2028 as awareness among consumers spreads about the benefits of industrial hemp, increasing legalization to cultivate industrial hemp in many countries and the rising application of industrial hemp in diverse industries such as textile, pharmaceutical, food, beverage, personal care, construction and material, furniture and paper.  These factors are expected to drive the market for industrial hemp.

The report also provides valuable insight into the global industrial hemp market, citing Hemp, Inc. among one of the “major players” in the market alongside other companies such as Hempco, Ecofibre, GenCanna and more. The major players were recognized for their key development strategies, market share and market ranking analysis in the industry. Hemp, Inc. executives say the recognition does not come as a surprise.  The company has over a decade of experience in growing, harvesting, processing and selling industrial hemp, as well as having a strong foothold on the educational front with its Hemp University. 

See an excerpt from the report below:

Rising awareness regarding the dietary advantages of its oil, coupled with the growing demand from the cosmetics and personal care industries is expected to drive the market growth. The introduction of conducive regulation pertaining to the cultivation and use of hemp-based products in the U.S. is expected to drive the market over the forecast period. Industrial hemp is a highly regulated crop across the world and licenses from a different country and state authorities are required to grow, process, distribute, and use these products. On account of the liberalization in regulations, the countries are producing and consuming a significant amount of this product which is expected to drive the growth of the industrial hemp market over the next eight years.

However, factor such as complex regulatory structure for the usage of industrial hemp is expected to restrain the market growth across the globe over the forecast period. Companies offering hemp and hemp-derived products require compliance with different regulatory guidelines globally. While countries across the globe practice different levels of legalization for different types of hemp, the strict regulatory norms pertaining to the production and sales of industrial hemp across various states in the same country could be tedious for manufacturers and stakeholders to comply with. Additionally, the regulations associated with hemp containing cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) also remain highly varied from state to state, which further leads to complications associated with the trading of the commodity. For instance, in the US, various legal policies should be taken into consideration; these policies include licensure of growers, regulation, and certification of seeds, state-wide commissions, and legal protection of growers.

To read the full report, click here.

Hemp, Inc. continues to grow as the industry grows. The company recently added its second brand (Billy Hayes) in the King of Hemp® product line which already consists of Bubba Kush hemp; CBD Pre-rolls, Fortified CBD Pre-rolls, CBD and CBG Caviar/Moon Rocks; and Diamonds (which are 96%-98.7% CBD, the only product like this in the marketplace today). According to executives, there are a limited number of signed collector’s boxes also available. Those interested in being the first to collect this “pirate treasure” should click here. The third in the series will be the Notorious Smith Brothers (famous smugglers from South Florida) to be released at a later date.

The Company’s website for its King of Hemp® line (www.kingofhempusa.com) also has CBD oil tinctures available for purchase. The tinctures are available in two flavors, Natural and Peppermint, and contain full-spectrum hemp oil extracted from the flowers and leaves of hemp plants sustainably sourced from Colorado. They are also compliant with the regulations created by the Colorado Department of Agriculture in regards to industrial hemp. The tinctures, as well as all CBD products, contain 0.3% or less THC and are compliant with the 2018 Farm Bill.

To learn more, go to the King of Hemp® website, here.

Those interested in King of Hemp® pre-rolls; hemp-derived CBD tinctures; Caviar; Diamonds; can visit www.kingofhempusa.com and email [email protected].

WHAT IS HEMP, INC.?

What is Hemp, Inc.? With a deep-rooted social and environmental mission at its core, Hemp, Inc. seeks to build a business constituency for the American small hemp farmer, the American veteran, and other groups experiencing the ever-increasing disparity between tapering income and soaring expenses. The Company is on a mission to be a powerful engine for social change and economic revival, worldwide, by providing hemp products that are eco-friendly, sustainable and healthy. Hemp, Inc. executives believe there can be tangible benefits reaped from adhering to a corporate social responsibility plan.

FORWARD-LOOKING DISCLAIMER AND DISCLOSURES

This press release may contain certain forward-looking statements and information, as defined within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and is subject to the Safe Harbor created by those sections. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) requires issuers to provide “adequate current information” and Hemp, Inc. does… using the SEC’s Alternative Reporting Standard to publicly report its quarterly and yearly financials.  All current information can be found on www.hempinc.com/hemp-financial-disclosures/. This material contains statements about expected future events and/or financial results that are forward-looking in nature and subject to risks and uncertainties. Such forward-looking statements by definition involve risks, uncertainties.

Contact:

Hemp, Inc.    

855-436-7688

[email protected]



USBG Presents World Class Sponsored By Diageo Goes Virtual In 2021

For the first time ever, tune in for a week of immersive education experiences and watch live as we find out who will be the 2021 US Bartender of the Year

PR Newswire

NEW YORK, March 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — The United States Bartenders’ Guild (USBG) World Class sponsored by Diageo is launching the first-ever entirely digital version of the US bartending competition and education platform. From March 29th through April 6th, the top US 50 regional competitors will virtually stream as they shake and stir through the competition while navigating this year’s four unique challenges for the chance to represent the US at the Global Finals, taking place later in the year in Madrid, Spain.

Experience the interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/8868451-diageo-united-states-bartenders-guild-usbg-world-class-competition/

As a world leader in trade education and competition, the virtual broadcast will feature five days of exciting events, trend-led education, amazing panels and fierce competition. With the new-to-world digital platform, this is the first time that anyone (must be 21+) can take a front row seat and experience what it means to be World Class. The entire week has been adapted to the realities of today’s climate. Competitors will create their cocktails virtually, while the judges follow along from home with a custom batched version of the cocktail they’re watching being created live on their screen. You can register now at https://worldclass2021.eventcore.com

Challenges Include:

  • Underground Agriculture: Back to My Roots Challenge: Sharing a personal story through cocktail artistry that connects bartenders to the audience and their roots. This challenge will test both bartender and storytelling skills.
  • Batched and Ready To-Go Challenge: Competitors will create and demonstrate a recipe that can be produced consistently, batched, and safely transported for at-home enjoyment.
  • Menu Challenge: The top 10 finalists will create a menu of seven cocktails for a specific bar or restaurant concept. Each competitor will collaborate with a graphic designer to bring their menu to life and will describe their menu strategy to the judges
  • Speed Round: The top 5 finalists will compete in one final challenge as they race the clock while preparing classic cocktails using the Diageo Reserve Portfolio.

“The decision to move forward with the competition wasn’t made lightly. This last year has been challenging to say the least and has made monumental changes in our industry,” shares USBG Director Aaron Gregory Smith, “Diageo has generously donated $2,000,000 to the USBG Foundation’s COVID-19 relief efforts in the past 12 months, helping us to provide emergency assistance to over 32,000 bartenders across the US. Bringing back the World Class Competition in this virtual world is something that the competitors enthusiastically supported, as it not only instills optimism for the future, but provides current and relevant training and mentorship necessary for today’s hospitality professionals.”

“It’s more important than ever for us to support and champion bartenders and everyone in the hospitality industry. The competitors that missed out last year are now back and even more excited for 2021, and we have the most amazing team behind the scenes making it all possible,” shares Cassandra Ericson, Manager of On Premise at Diageo North America. “Education is the backbone of the competition, and going virtual has brought new opportunities including our new mentorship program where each competitor is matched up with an industry veteran, and World Class Studios are live on Diageo Bar Academy 24/7. There is a plethora of online resources available to the trade community so we’re looking forward to a truly immersive week and beyond.”

Experience the 2021 World Class Studios, the online training platform designed for experienced bartenders to explore new articles and videos on Diageo Bar Academy, watch expert panels and more from some of the top experts in the industry.

For more information on World Class, follow along on Instagram at @WorldClassUS.

About USBG 
Founded in 1948, the United States Bartenders’ Guild®️ is a non-profit professional society of bartenders and other hospitality professionals uniting the hospitality community to advance professional bartending. The USBG believes that every US bartender achieves greater personal and professional success by connecting to diverse local and national hospitality communities. Through our network of over 40 communities nationwide, the USBG connects members with peer-to-peer learning, expert instruction, community service projects, and skills-based competition. 

About Diageo
Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of brands including Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, Bulleit and Buchanan’s whiskies, Smirnoff, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Casamigos and Don Julio tequilas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Tanqueray and Guinness.

Diageo is listed on both the New York Stock Exchange (DEO) and the London Stock Exchange (DGE) and our products are sold in more than 180 countries around the world. For more information about Diageo, our people, our brands, and performance, visit us at www.diageo.com. Visit Diageo’s global responsible drinking resource, www.DRINKiQ.com, for information, initiatives, and ways to share best practice.

Follow us on Twitter for news and information about Diageo North America: @Diageo_NA.

Media Contact: Taylor Breit, [email protected]

 

The top 10 competitors representing the Northeast for the title of USBG World Class Bartender of the Year. Which of these bartenders will make it to the Finals?

 

These eight bartenders will be competing for the title of USBG World Class Bartender of the Year. Which of these competitors will represent the South at Finals

 

Who will be voted best of the Midwest? Only two of these master mixologists will go on to compete at Finals for the title of USBG World Class Bartender of the Year.

 

Which of these nine bartenders will represent the Southwest at Finals for the title of USBG World Class Bartender of the Year?

 

These ten bartenders are representing the best of the west. Which of these competitors will make it to the Finals for a chance at the USBG World Class Bartender of the Year title?

 

The top U.S. 50 regional bartenders will shake and stir through the virtual competition while navigating this year’s four unique challenges for a chance to represent the U.S. at the Global Finals.

 

Cision View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/usbg-presents-world-class-sponsored-by-diageo-goes-virtual-in-2021-301247498.html

SOURCE Diageo North America

Director Declaration

Pursuant to Listing Rule 9.6.14R(2), Royal Dutch Shell plc (the “Company”) confirms that Jessica Uhl, Chief Financial Officer of the Company, has been nominated by The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (“GS Group”) to join its Board as an independent director. GS Group shareholders will consider and vote on this proposal at its AGM, scheduled to be held on April 29, 2021. If approved by shareholders, Jessica will join the GS Group board on July 1, 2021.

March 15, 2021

Anthony Clarke
Deputy Company Secretary

ENQUIRIES

Shell Media Relations
International, UK, European Press: +44 20 7934 5550

LEI number of Royal Dutch Shell plc: 21380068P1DRHMJ8KU70
Classification: Additional regulated information required to be disclosed under the laws of a Member State



Piedmont Natural Gas seeks to help North Carolina customers offset their carbon footprint through new green energy program

– Program would allow customers to purchase blocks comprised of both the favorable environmental qualities of renewable natural gas and carbon offsets.

– Customers can participate in the program beginning at $3 per month.

PR Newswire

CHARLOTTE, N.C., March 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — North Carolina residential and small business customers of Piedmont Natural Gas may soon have the opportunity to participate in a new carbon footprint-reducing, green energy program to offset their personal natural gas usage. Piedmont announced today it has filed with the North Carolina Utilities Commission a request to implement this green program.

Under the program, Piedmont customers will have the option to purchase “green” blocks for just $3 each per month, which will be added to their monthly bill. These blocks are comprised of the favorable environmental qualities of renewable natural gas (RNG) and carbon offsets. There will be no limit to the number of blocks that can be purchased, although four blocks, for a total of $12, should offset the average household’s carbon footprint.

RNG is methane that has been captured from the breakdown of organic waste and processed to remove contaminants and meet natural gas pipeline quality standards. Carbon offsets include forestry, land conservation or other nature-based offsets that are beneficial to the environment.

“Our residential customers have voiced an interest in ways to manage their carbon footprint,” said Sasha Weintraub, senior vice president, natural gas business, at Piedmont Natural Gas. “Our larger customers have more tools to meet many of their sustainability goals, and we would like to offer our residential and small business customers the same opportunity.”

The green program was designed from specific customer feedback to provide that choice.

Weintraub added, “This flexible, affordable option puts our customers in control of reducing their personal natural gas footprint. It also allows them to participate in our own carbon-reduction commitment as our business moves toward net-zero methane emissions from our natural gas delivery system by 2030.”

In addition to its 2030 net-zero methane reduction target, the company has invested in SustainRNG, a developer of renewable natural gas projects in the agriculture sector. Piedmont is sourcing renewable natural gas for its compressed natural gas stations, with a pilot project already underway in Tennessee. The company also joined ONE Future, a nationwide coalition of natural gas companies working to voluntarily reduce methane emissions in the entire natural gas supply chain.

“Offering customers the ability to participate in the green program enables them to partner with us in moving toward an even cleaner energy future,” Weintraub said.

If approved by the NCUC, blocks would be available for customers to purchase through the green program no later than the first quarter of 2022.

Piedmont Natural Gas
Piedmont Natural Gas, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, is an energy services company whose principal business is the distribution of natural gas to more than 1 million residential, commercial and industrial customers in North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. The company also supplies natural gas to power plants. Piedmont is routinely recognized by J.D. Power for excellent customer satisfaction, and has been named by Cogent Reports as one of the most trusted utility brands in the U.S. 

Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of the largest energy holding companies in the U.S. It employs 30,000 people and has an electric generating capacity of 51,000 megawatts through its regulated utilities, and 3,000 megawatts through its nonregulated Duke Energy Renewables unit.

Duke Energy is transforming its customers’ experience, modernizing the energy grid, generating cleaner energy and expanding natural gas infrastructure to create a smarter energy future for the people and communities it serves.

Duke Energy was named to Fortune’s 2020 “World’s Most Admired Companies” list, and Forbes’ 2019 “America’s Best Employers” list. More information about the company is available at duke-energy.com. The Duke Energy News Center contains news releases, fact sheets, photos, videos and other materials. Duke Energy’s illumination features stories about people, innovations, community topics and environmental issues. Follow Duke Energy on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.      

Media contact: Jason Wheatley                                                             
Phone: 877.348.3612
Email: [email protected]

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One Year Into the COVID-19 Pandemic, North Texas Food Bank Reports Significant Increases in Hunger and Response

Food Insecurity Increased by 25 Percent, Meal Distribution Increased by 45 Percent

Dallas, March 15, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the nation takes stock of the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, the North Texas Food Bank (NTFB) today disclosed the impact the crisis has had on hunger in North Texas.

Over the past year, food insecurity among North Texans has increased by 25 percent. This reflects a significant rise in those seeking food assistance from the NTFB Feeding Network for the very first time – approximately 40 percent of those served by the organization since the start of the pandemic. These figures reflect the historic increase in hunger across the organization’s 13-county service area. Almost 900,000 North Texans now face immediate and sustained food insecurity.

In response, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the NTFB has provided nearly 120 million meals to North Texans – a 45 percent increase over the prior year. The organization has provided over 113 million pounds of food – a 72 percent increase from the prior year – including 600,000 pounds to approximately 25,000 North Texans at a single Mobile Food Pantry event in Dallas’ Fair Park.

Early into the pandemic, the North Texas Food Bank instituted several immediate and sweeping changes to its operations that allowed the organization to not only sustain its support, but to significantly increase the food assistance it provides.

“We flipped our business model virtually overnight,” said Trisha Cunningham, CEO, North Texas Food Bank. “Our leadership team quickly recognized that we could not operate ‘business as usual’ in the face of this historic crisis. The staggering level of unemployment and public health requirements meant we needed to reimagine how to feed our hungry neighbors.”

The NTFB’s changes impacted several areas of operation:

  • Mobile Food Pantries: Recognizing the need to get food immediately into the hands of North Texans, the food bank ramped up its Mobile Pantry program, bringing large-scale, low-touch, drive-through food assistance directly to under-served communities. Since the start of the pandemic locally, the food bank has conducted more than 375 mobile food pantry distribution events, serving nearly 150,000 families. All told, the program has provided almost 12 million meals to the North Texas community.
  • Kitted Meals: The food bank significantly increased weekly production of kitted meal boxes to include 25-pound family meal boxes full of shelf-stable items as well as 15-pound assorted produce boxes.
  • Volunteers: Social distancing and other public health considerations required a complete re-tooling of the NTFB’s volunteer program. Through an innovative partnership with Get Shift Done that engaged out-of-work restaurant workers, and support from the National Guard, among other changes, the food bank was able to ensure that food was safely and efficiently packaged, transported and delivered to those in need.

The NTFB also transformed its 240,000 square foot warehouse into a 24-hour operation to allow staff and volunteers to adhere to social distancing requirement while coordinating food packaging and delivery.

“The decisions we made and actions we took last year were transformative, not just for the NTFB, but for the community,” said Brad Stewart, COO, North Texas Food Bank. “Our innovative changes have made the North Texas Food Bank an even stronger, more efficient and more effective organization in the fight against hunger.”

Yet the food bank’s response to the area’s historic need have come at a cost. The NTFB projects that COVID-related costs for the organization will reach more than $67 million since the pandemic’s onset.

The COVID-19 pandemic is also expected to have a lasting economic impact on North Texas and other communities across the country. The Dallas area is forecasted to recover economically in 2022 (source: LaborIQ), meaning many families will continue to struggle to put food on their table. According to Feeding America, the pandemic reversed the last decade’s progress towards ending hunger in the United States. In 2021, an estimated 42 million people, including 13 million children, may face food insecurity.

“One year ago, the COVID-19 pandemic completely changed our way of life in North Texas, as it did for millions of people across the globe,” said Trisha Cunningham. “Thanks to the generosity of our community, the government, and to our dedicated team and Feeding Network partners, we’ve been able to provide countless families with nutritious meals, and with hope. While we have much to be thankful for, we recognize there is still much to do.”

About North Texas Food Bank

The North Texas Food Bank (NTFB) is a top-ranked nonprofit hunger-relief organization operating a state-of-the-art volunteer and distribution center in Plano, the Perot Family Campus. Last year, the Food Bank worked hard in partnership with member agencies from our Feeding Network to provide access to almost 97 million nutritious meals across a diverse 13-county service area, exceeding our goal by five years to provide access to 92 million annual meals by 2025. But the need for hunger relief is complex and in order to meet the continued need, the NTFB is always working to increase our food distribution efforts and bridge the hunger gap for children, seniors, and families in North Texas.

NTFB is a member of Feeding America, a national hunger-relief organization.

 

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Attachments



Anna Kurian
North Texas Food Bank
214-7246565
[email protected]