Posts

Posted on

Virtual Santa Uses Real AI to Talk to Children Around the World

Children from 170 countries have talked to the world’s first fully artificially intelligent Santa Claus for free, with no time limits; AI Tech Company StoryFile funded and created Ask Santa as a Christmas gift during the pandemic; Children’s COVID concerns answered

Los Angeles, CA, Dec. 10, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The COVID-19 Pandemic was going to prevent many children from speaking with Santa Claus this year. But, AI startup StoryFile had other plans – Christmas would not be cancelled. Today StoryFile announced that AskSanta.com, the world’s first artificially intelligent, virtual Santa Claus, has already been visited by children from over 170 countries. Today, the site allows children of all ages to interact with Santa in real time, for free, and with no time limits. Heather Smith, Co-Founder & CEO of StoryFile, developed the idea to use her company’s conversational video technology to usher in the holiday spirit. StoryFile created AI powered Ask Santa as a gift to children everywhere. 

While there are many virtual Santa experiences this year, Ask Santa is the only one that is free, interactive, and answers questions in real time. While some custom video experiences can cost as much as $58 for 8 minutes, Ask Santa has no time limit, or limit on the number of sessions per child or family. The idea was to create an experience for people to speak with Santa from the comfort and safety of their homes – and have the opportunity to ask Santa (almost) anything! Ask Santa is even being visited by large groups using big screen TVs or monitors. Ask Santa is a webpage app that works on any browser on smartphones, tablets, desktops etc. 

“By far the most frequent thing kids bring up with Ask Santa is their concern for his safety during the pandemic. We are seeing through the interactions just how concerned children are  – and they are telling Santa they are hungry, or sharing that a relative passed away.  It is heartbreaking at times, but we are comforted by the fact that Santa is offering an empathetic and comforting outlet,” said StoryFile CEO Heather Smith. “Ask Santa answers these questions and shows the spirit of the holiday is about compassion and community more than ever–not just gifts. That said, many children still ask Christmas specific questions, and ‘Am I on the naughty or nice list?’ is still a top question!”

What makes Ask Santa stand above the entire Santa business sector, is that when children ask Santa a question, they receive direct and immediate answers and responses. StoryFile’s technology means that children can have face-to-face conversations that are very much needed in today’s socially and physically distanced world. In addition, children are writing in letters to Santa and receiving responses from Santa and his team within 24 hours.

Top questions and subjects asked of Santa include:

  • How Santa stays safe this year
  • Requests to help ill family/friends
  • Tell me a story
  • Why do we give gifts
  • Naughty or Nice list
  • What is your real name
  • How old are you
  • What are the best gifts to give for Christmas *Data compiled anonymously through transcription by StoryFile. Ask Santa is KidSafe accredited.

When asking about COVID-19 specifically, Santa answers their questions by:

  • Assuring children that he and the elves were safe and that Christmas was not cancelled.
  • Assuring children that he will be safe on Christmas and follow safety rules. (Santa also shows the kids his mask to make them feel at ease and confirm he and his team follow the safety precautions).
  • As a caring and empathetic individual, Santa resonates with the kids and shares warm words for any who may be experiencing any fear or loss.

“2020 has been really hard for so many people, but Christmas will still be awesome if we remember what it’s all about,” our Santa, also known as Santa Cortney, told ABC News. “That’s why I’m so happy that AskSanta.com is free and that children can talk to me for as long as they want. Ho Ho Ho!” 

In a partnership with the American Heart Association (AHA) and the Red Sled Foundation, Ask Santa is encouraging anyone that is able to make a holiday donation to help kids in need.  100% of donations made on the Ask Santa website will go directly to the AHA, inspiring kids and adults alike to be “heart heroes” this holiday season.

For more information or media/PR requests for AI Santa and StoryFile’s Heather Smith, please contact [email protected]

About StoryFile: StoryFile is rapidly evolving the media and storytelling landscape through its proprietary innovative technology, creating new ways to interact and communicate with each other and the world through user-led, voice activated interactive conversational video technology. StoryFile’s mobile native cloud-based automatic AI-driven interactive conversational video platform creates an individualized and curated historical and living narrative. StoryFile leverages AI to enhance a natural conversation with the video captured on any device. StoryFile offers in-studio and remote legacy capture experiences, a beta-version of the StoryFile App on the app store, and [soon] a StoryFile Life version for users to create their personal full length StoryFiles using their own devices. To learn more, visit www.StoryFile.com. 

About the American Heart Association: Children are the future in a world where cardiovascular diseases claim more lives each year than all forms of cancer combined. The American Heart Association is a relentless force dedicated to saving and improving every child’s life. Its vision is that all children, regardless of gender, race, location or economic status, should be able grow to their full potential. The American Heart Association is laser-focused on enabling our children to build a world free from heart disease and stroke, working to improve environments where kids live, learn and play, and arming them with information, advocating for healthy environments and encouraging healthy habits. To learn more, visit www.heart.org. 

About Red Sled Santa Foundation: For many years, the Red Sled Santa Foundation has made the holidays special for children. The Foundation provides programs, services, fun and educational holiday gifts, and essential needs for low income, special needs, medically challenged and terminally ill children so they experience a memorable and meaningful loving holiday. The Foundation accomplishes this mission through fundraising efforts, gifts from generous donors, and support from local merchants for our annual “Fill the Sleigh Toy Drive.”  To learn more, visit www.redsledfoundation.org. 

Attachment 



Alana
StoryFile
[email protected]

Posted on

EQUITY ALERT: Rosen Law Firm Files Securities Class Action Lawsuit on Behalf of Covia Holdings Corporation f/k/a Fairmount Santrol Holdings Inc. Investors – CVIAQ, CVIA, FMSA

PR Newswire

NEW YORK, Dec. 10, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, announces it has filed a class action lawsuit on behalf of purchasers of the securities of Covia Holdings Corporation f/k/a Fairmount Santrol Holdings Inc. (“Covia”) (OTC: CVIAQ) (NYSE: CVIA) (NYSE: FMSA) between March 15, 2016 to June 29, 2020, inclusive (the “Class Period”). The lawsuit seeks to recover damages for Covia investors under the federal securities laws.

To join the Covia class action, go to http://www.rosenlegal.com/cases-register-1993.html or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] or [email protected] for information on the class action.

According to the lawsuit, defendants throughout the Class Period made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) Covia’s proprietary “value-added” proppants were not necessarily more effective than ordinary sand; (2) Covia’s revenues, which were dependent on its proprietary “value-added” proppants, was based on misrepresentations; (3) when Covia insiders raised this issue, defendants did not take meaningful steps to rectify the issue; and (4) as a result, defendants’ statements about its business, operations, and prospects, were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.

A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than February 8, 2021. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. If you wish to join the litigation, go to http://www.rosenlegal.com/cases-register-1993.html or to discuss your rights or interests regarding this class action, please contact Phillip Kim, Esq. of Rosen Law Firm toll free at 866-767-3653 or via e-mail at [email protected] or [email protected].

NO CLASS HAS YET BEEN CERTIFIED IN THE ABOVE ACTION. UNTIL A CLASS IS CERTIFIED, YOU ARE NOT REPRESENTED BY COUNSEL UNLESS YOU RETAIN ONE. YOU MAY RETAIN COUNSEL OF YOUR CHOICE. YOU MAY ALSO REMAIN AN ABSENT CLASS MEMBER AND DO NOTHING AT THIS POINT. AN INVESTOR’S ABILITY TO SHARE IN ANY POTENTIAL FUTURE RECOVERY IS NOT DEPENDENT UPON SERVING AS LEAD PLAINTIFF.

Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/.

Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 3 each year since 2013. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm’s attorneys are ranked and recognized by numerous independent and respected sources. Rosen Law Firm has secured hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Contact Information:

      Laurence Rosen, Esq.
      Phillip Kim, Esq.
      The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.
      275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor
      New York, NY 10016
      Tel: (212) 686-1060
      Toll Free: (866) 767-3653
      Fax: (212) 202-3827
      [email protected]
      [email protected]
      [email protected]
      www.rosenlegal.com

Cision View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/equity-alert-rosen-law-firm-files-securities-class-action-lawsuit-on-behalf-of-covia-holdings-corporation-fka-fairmount-santrol-holdings-inc-investors–cviaq-cvia-fmsa-301190869.html

SOURCE Rosen Law Firm, P.A.

Posted on

CenterPoint Energy declares regular common stock dividend of $0.1600, Series A Preferred Stock dividend of $30.6250 and Series B Preferred Stock dividend of $17.5000

PR Newswire

HOUSTON, Dec. 10, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — CenterPoint Energy, Inc.’s (NYSE: CNP) board of directors today declared dividends on shares of its common stock, Series A Perpetual Preferred Stock and Series B Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock.

Common Stock Dividend

The company’s board of directors declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.1600 per share on the issued and outstanding shares of Common Stock. The dividend will also be payable to holders of shares of Series C Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock which participate with the Common Stock on an as-converted basis. The dividend will be payable March 11, 2021 to holders of Common Stock and Series C Preferred Stock of record at the close of business on February 18, 2021.  This quarterly dividend represents a 6.7 percent increase from the previous quarterly dividend of $0.1500 and, if annualized, would equate to $0.64 per share.

Series A Preferred Stock Dividend

The company’s board of directors declared a regular semiannual cash dividend of $30.6250 per share on the issued and outstanding shares of Series A Preferred Stock payable March 1, 2021 to holders of Series A Preferred Stock of record at the close of business on February 15, 2021.

Series B Preferred Stock Dividend

The company’s board of directors declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $17.5000 per share on the issued and outstanding shares of Series B Preferred Stock payable March 1, 2021 to holders of Series B Preferred Stock of record at the close of business on February 15, 2021. This equates to $0.8750 per depositary share (NYSE: CNPPRB), each of which represents a 1/20th interest in a share of the Series B Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock.

As the only investor-owned electric and gas utility based in Texas, CenterPoint Energy, Inc. (NYSE: CNP) is an energy delivery company with electric transmission and distribution, power generation and natural gas distribution operations that serve more than 7 million metered customers in Arkansas, Indiana, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Ohio, Oklahoma and Texas. As of September 30, 2020, the company owned approximately $33 billion in assets and also owned 53.7 percent of the common units representing limited partner interests in Enable Midstream Partners, LP, a publicly traded master limited partnership that owns, operates and develops strategically located natural gas and crude oil infrastructure assets. With approximately 9,600 employees, CenterPoint Energy and its predecessor companies have been in business for more than 150 years. For more information, visit CenterPointEnergy.com.

This news release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are based upon assumptions of management which are believed to be reasonable at the time made and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Actual events and results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Any statements in this news release regarding future events, such as annualized dividends per share, and any other statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Each forward-looking statement contained in this news release speaks only as of the date of this release.

For more information contact
Media:
Communications
[email protected]
Investors:
David Mordy
Phone      713.207.6500

Cision View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/centerpoint-energy-declares-regular-common-stock-dividend-of-0-1600–series-a-preferred-stock-dividend-of-30-6250-and-series-b-preferred-stock-dividend-of-17-5000–301190867.html

SOURCE CenterPoint Energy, Inc.

Posted on

‘Persevering through Adversity’: On 250th Anniversary of Beethoven’s Birth, Virtual Festival featuring American and Chinese Musicians to Showcase How His Legacy is More Relevant than Ever

Bard College Conservatory’s U.S.-China Music Institute to Present “China Now Music Festival 2020: China and Beethoven” from Dec 11-18, Free and Open to the Public

ANNANDALE-ON-HUDSON, N.Y., Dec. 10, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — This month, the U.S.-China Music Institute of the Bard College Conservatory of Music is convening leading Chinese and American musicians, performing artists, and other cultural institutions to present “China Now Music Festival 2020: China and Beethoven”, a week-long worldwide virtual festival that explores, showcases, and commemorates the legacy of Ludwig van Beethoven, with a focus on the many ways that China has embraced, interpreted, and enthusiastically appreciated the composer and his works. All events are online, free, and open to the public around the world, with registration available at https://www.barduschinamusic.org/china-and-beethoven.

The third edition of Bard’s annual festival, dedicated to promoting an understanding and appreciation of classical music from contemporary China, will feature a series of musical and scholarly online events premiering daily from Dec. 11 to 18, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the week of Beethoven’s birth in 1770. Select events will also be broadcast in partnership with the Violin Channel, the premier online news source in the classical music industry.

Celebratory events to commemorate the anniversary of Beethoven’s birth have been planned all around the world, but nowhere more so than in China, where for over one hundred years Beethoven has enjoyed great popularity among audiences of all ages, as his perseverance in the face of adversity and his musical genius resonated in a nation searching for a way forward. Today, in a year upended by a global pandemic, this spirit of triumph over hardship increasingly resonates not just in China, but around the world. When theaters, concert halls, and orchestras found themselves unexpectedly shuttered for much of the year, many planned celebrations were put on hold or re-imagined. But as China and others begin to reopen, Beethoven once again takes center stage. This re-imagined virtual festival will provide a window into celebrations happening in China today, as well as exploring Beethoven’s legacy as a heroic figure during the changing politics of the 20th century and China’s oscillating affiliation with Western classical music.

Featured participants include: Jindong Cai, Artistic Director, China Now Music Festival, and co-author of Beethoven in China, considered to be the definitive work on the subject; Leon Botstein, President, Bard College; Tan Dun, composer, conductor, Dean, Bard College Conservatory of Music; Shanghai Symphony Orchestra; China National Center for the Performing Arts Orchestra; Bard College’s The Orchestra Now; The Philadelphia Orchestra; Shanghai Youth Philharmonic Orchestra; Wu Man, pipa; Shenyang, bass-baritone; Daniella Travaglione, child vocalist; Julie Smith Phillips, harp; Wu Weiqiao, violin; Diana Borshcheva, piano; Xu Miao, ruan; Qi Yiduo, piano; Sheila Melvin, author; Jennifer Lin, filmmaker; Ryan Fleur, Executive Director of the Philadelphia Orchestra; Ambassador Nicholas Platt; Asia Society of Northern California; China Institute; and more.
  
Festival highlights include:

  • A concert and lecture tracing the story of Beethoven’s ascent into the cultural imagination of China through discussions with music scholars and musical interludes from the U.S. and China. (Dec 11)
  • An exciting and imaginative evening of musical interpretations of Beethoven with Chinese accents, presented by world-renowned artists including bass-baritone Shenyang, pipa virtuoso Wu Man, composer/conductor Tan Dun, the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra, The Orchestra Now, and musicians of the prestigious Central Conservatory of Music. (Dec 13)
  • A peek into the Chinese market for all things Beethoven, including a musical based on Beethoven’s life, a play describing how his music became known in China, and an ‘immersive multimedia Beethoven experience’ exhibition at the Shanghai Concert Hall. (Dec 14)
  • A concert to celebrate Beethoven’s birthday with the illustrious Shanghai Symphony, the oldest orchestra in China, featuring a selection of recent performances of some of Beethoven’s most iconic symphonic and chamber works. (Dec 15)
  • Early access to the new documentary Beethoven in Beijing, which follows the Philadelphia Orchestra on their first historic trip to China in 1973 and chronicles the opening of China to Western classical music since the end of the Cultural Revolution. Includes a discussion with the filmmakers and special guests who will look at the future of culture and diplomacy through classical music. (Dec 16 and 17)
  • A landmark performance of Beethoven’s complete Egmont, his musical setting of the 1787 play by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, in a new production by the China National Center for the Performing Arts Orchestra in Beijing, with narration in Mandarin Chinese. (Dec 18)

For festival registration and complete details, visit https://www.barduschinamusic.org/china-and-beethoven. 

  
More About Beethoven’s Influence in China: Beethoven’s historical importance in China is extensive. Students returning from abroad introduced Beethoven to China first in 1906, and he remained a durable part of Chinese life in the decades that followed. He became an icon to intellectuals, music fans, and party cadres alike, and played a role in major historical events from the May Fourth Movement to the normalization of U.S.-China relations. He inspired intellectuals like Lu Xun and Cai Yuanpei, who considered him a role model for his dedication to principles of humanity and aesthetic taste. As a man who refused to bow to royalty, Beethoven was celebrated in the early days of the revolution before his music was forbidden in the cultural upheaval of the 60s and 70s. After the Cultural Revolution, ‘Beethoven fever’ would sweep the country, presaging his present-day popularity.


Full Festival Program

December 11, 2020, 7:30pm EST

China’s Sage of Music (Concert/Lecture)

The festival’s opening event traces the story of Beethoven’s ascent into the cultural imagination of China. Bard College President Leon Botstein shares remarks on Beethoven’s universal appeal and enduring relevance, followed by performances by Bard’s The Orchestra Now and the Shanghai Youth Philharmonic. Host Jindong Cai, the artistic director of the festival and the director of the US-China Music Institute, will provide the historical context for the festival.

December 12, 2020, 8pm EST

Beethoven in China (Webinar in Mandarin Chinese)

China Institute’s Renwen Society hosts Jindong Cai in a webinar discussion in Mandarin Chinese of his book Beethoven in China: How the Great Composer Became an Icon in the People’s Republic.

December 13, 2020, 7:30pm EST

Beethoven Made in China (Concert/Lecture)

Experience an exciting and imaginative evening of musical interpretations of Beethoven with Chinese accents, presented by world-renowned artists including bass-baritone Shenyang, pipa virtuoso Wu Man, composers Tan Dun and Yu Jingjun, the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra, The Orchestra Now, and musicians of the prestigious Central Conservatory of Music. Hosted by Shenyang and Jindong Cai.

December 14, 2020, 7:30pm EST

Beethoven is Us (Producer’s Expo)

Host Jindong Cai and guests will offer a peek into the Chinese market for all things Beethoven, including a musical based on Beethoven’s life, a play describing how his music became known in China, and an ‘immersive multimedia Beethoven experience’ exhibition at the Shanghai Concert Hall.

December 15, 2020, 7:30pm EST

Shanghai Symphony: Night of Beethoven (Concert)

Celebrate Beethoven’s birthday with the illustrious Shanghai Symphony, the oldest orchestra in China, featuring a selection of recent performances of some of Beethoven’s most iconic symphonic and chamber works, specially selected for the China Now Music Festival.

December 16, 2020, 7:30pm EST

Beethoven in Beijing: an American Orchestra’s Journey (Private Film Screening)

Get early access to the new documentary Beethoven in Beijing, which follows the Philadelphia Orchestra on their first historic trip to China in 1973 and chronicles the opening of China to Western classical music since the end of the Cultural Revolution. In collaboration with History Making Productions, the Wharton School, and the Philadelphia Orchestra.

December 17, 2020; 8pm EST

Building Bridges through Music: Beethoven in Beijing (Roundtable Discussion)

Hosted by Asia Society of Northern California and moderated by author Sheila Melvin, this discussion with the filmmakers Jennifer Lin and Jindong Cai, plus guests Ryan Fleur, executive director of the Philadelphia Orchestra, and Ambassador Nicholas Platt— looking at the future of culture and diplomacy through classical music.

December 18, 2020, 7:30pm EST

Egmont in China (Orchestra Concert)

The 2020 China Now Music Festival closes with a landmark performance of Beethoven’s complete Egmont, his musical setting of the 1787 play by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, in a new production by the China NCPA Orchestra in Beijing. With narration in Mandarin by Sun Qian, and featuring soprano Song Yuanming, the concert was recorded live at the National Center for the Performing Arts in Beijing on November 12, 2020, conducted by Lü Jia.


About the US-China Music Institute

The US-China Music Institute was founded at the Bard College Conservatory of Music in 2017 by conductor and classical music scholar Jindong Cai and Robert Martin, a cellist, philosopher, and the founding director of the Bard Conservatory. The Institute’s mission is to promote the study, performance, and appreciation of music from contemporary China, and to support musical exchange between the United States and China. It is the most comprehensive institution for Chinese music in the West, with unprecedented degree programs and research and performance opportunities for students, artists, composers, and scholars around the world.
Visit barduschinamusic.org


About the Bard College Conservatory of Music

Recognized as one of the finest conservatories in the United States, the Bard College Conservatory of Music is guided by the principle that young musicians should be broadly educated in the liberal arts and sciences to achieve their greatest potential. The mission of the Conservatory is to provide the best possible preparation for a person dedicated to a life immersed in the creation and performance of music. The five-year, double-degree program combines rigorous conservatory training with a challenging and comprehensive liberal arts program. All Conservatory students pursue a double degree in a thoroughly integrated program and supportive educational community. Graduating students receive a bachelor of music and a bachelor of arts in a field other than music. At the Bard Conservatory the serious study of music goes hand in hand with the education of the whole person. Founded in 2005 by cellist and philosopher Robert Martin, the Conservatory welcomed the composer Tan Dun as its new dean in the summer of 2019. Visit bard.edu/conservatory


About Bard College

Founded in 1860, Bard College is a four-year residential college of the liberal arts and sciences located 90 miles north of New York City. With the addition of the Montgomery Place estate, Bard’s campus consists of nearly 1,000 parklike acres in the Hudson Valley. It offers Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, and Bachelor of Music degrees, with majors in nearly 40 academic programs; graduate degrees in 11 programs; nine early colleges; and numerous dual-degree programs nationally and internationally. Building on its 159-year history as a competitive and innovative undergraduate institution, Bard College has expanded its mission as a private institution acting in the public interest across the country and around the world to meet broader student needs and increase access to liberal arts education. The undergraduate program at our main campus in upstate New York has a reputation for scholarly excellence, a focus on the arts, and civic engagement. Bard is committed to enriching culture, public life, and democratic discourse by training tomorrow’s thought leaders. For more information about Bard College, visit bard.edu.



For media inquiries and to request interviews, please contact Marc Smrikarov at [email protected].

Posted on

Kim Stratton, CEO, resigns from Orphazyme

Orphazyme A/S
Company announcement                                                                                        

No. 72/2020
Inside information
Company Registration No. 32266355

Copenhagen, Denmark, December 10, 2020 – Orphazyme A/S (ORPHA.CO) (“Orphazyme”), a late-stage biopharmaceutical company pioneering the Heat-Shock Protein response for the treatment of neurodegenerative orphan diseases, today announces that Kim Stratton has decided to resign from Orphazyme following a dialogue initiated by the board of directors. Orphazyme will initiate a search for a new CEO immediately. Meanwhile, in order to ensure continuity going forward, Georges Gemayel, Chairman of the Board of Directors, will temporarily assist the executive team of Orphazyme with the day-to-day operations until a new CEO is appointed.

Chairman of the Board of Directors, George Gemayel, states that “We are fortunate that Kim Stratton was available at a critical juncture of Orphazyme’s history during which the company successfully raised new equity of approximately DKK 1.3 bn, completed a listing of ADS in the Unites States and filed an NDA with the FDA and an MAA with the EMA. With these important milestones and the establishment of our operations in the United States, Orphazyme is well-positioned for a potential commercial launch of our product candidate, arimoclomol in the Unites States and Europe. Until a new CEO is appointed, I look very much forward to working temporarily with Orphazyme’s executive team to ensure a seamless transition and to continue the important work lying ahead.”



For additional information, please contact

Orphazyme A/S

Georges Gemayel                                        Bo Jesper Hansen
Chairman of the Board of Directors               Deputy Chairman of the Board of Directors

Anders Vadsholt, CFO +45 28 98 90 55



About Orphazyme A/S 
Orphazyme is a late-stage biopharmaceutical company pioneering the Heat-Shock Protein response for the treatment of neurodegenerative orphan diseases. The company is harnessing amplification of Heat-Shock Proteins (or HSPs) in order to develop and commercialize novel therapeutics for diseases caused by protein misfolding, protein aggregation, and lysosomal dysfunction, including lysosomal storage diseases and neuromuscular degenerative diseases. Arimoclomol, the company’s lead candidate, is in clinical development for four orphan diseases: Niemann-Pick disease Type C (NPC), Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), sporadic Inclusion Body Myositis (sIBM) and Gaucher disease. Orphazyme is headquartered in Denmark and has operations in the U.S. and Switzerland. Orphazyme’s shares are listed on Nasdaq U.S. (ORPH) and Nasdaq Copenhagen (ORPHA). 


About arimoclomol 

Arimoclomol is an investigational drug candidate that amplifies the production of Heat-Shock Proteins (HSPs). HSPs can rescue defective misfolded proteins, clear protein aggregates, and improve the function of lysosomes. Arimoclomol is administered orally, crosses the blood-brain barrier, and has now been studied in seven phase 1, four phase 2 and one pivotal phase 2/3 trial. Arimoclomol is in clinical development for NPC, Gaucher Disease, sIBM, and ALS. Arimoclomol has received orphan drug designation (ODD) for NPC, sIBM, and ALS in the US and EU. Arimoclomol has received fast-track designation (FTD) from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for NPC, sIBM and ALS. In addition, arimoclomol has received breakthrough therapy designation (BTD) and rare-pediatric disease designation (RPDD) from the FDA for NPC.

Forward-looking statement 
This company announcement may contain certain forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes its expectations are based on reasonable assumptions, all statements other than statements of historical fact included in this company announcement about future events are subject to (i) change without notice and (ii) factors beyond the Company’s control. These statements may include, without limitation, any statements preceded by, followed by, or including words such as “target,” “believe,” “expect,” “aim,” “intend,” “may,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “plan,” “project,” “will,” “can have,” “likely,” “should,” “would,” “could”, and other words and terms of similar meaning or the negative thereof. Forward-looking statements are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties beyond the Company’s control that could cause the Company’s actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the expected results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, the Company assumes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements publicly, or to update the reasons actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements, even if new information becomes available in the future.  

Attachment



Posted on

RMG Acquisition Corp. Announces Stockholder Meeting Date of December 28, 2020

RMG Acquisition Corp. Announces Stockholder Meeting Date of December 28, 2020

NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
RMG Acquisition Corp. (“RMG”) announced that the virtual stockholder meeting to approve the proposed transaction between RMG and Romeo Systems, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“Romeo Power”) has been set for Monday, December 28, 2020 at 10:00 a.m., Eastern Time. Holders of record of RMG common stock at the close of business on December 1, 2020 will be entitled to vote at the virtual meeting to approve the proposed transaction and may cast their vote electronically by visiting https://web.lumiagm.com/233514185. If you hold your shares through a bank or broker then you should reach out to your bank or broker for assistance in voting your shares.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201210006106/en/

RMG has also announced that the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) today has declared effective its registration statement on Form S-4, which includes a definitive proxy statement in connection with the stockholder meeting. RMG has filed its definitive proxy statement for the stockholder meeting, which will be mailed together with a proxy card to RMG’s stockholders of record as of the record date.

About RMG Acquisition Corp.

RMG Acquisition Corp is a special purpose acquisition company whose management and board has deep experience in power, renewable energy, environmental services, energy technology and corporate governance. RMG’s team includes top level executives from Goldman Sachs, Carlyle Group, Cogentrix Energy, Deloitte & Touche, Access Industries, Calpine Corporation (CPN) and Riverside Management Group. For additional information, please visit http://www.rmgacquisition.com/.

About Romeo Power

Romeo Power, founded in 2016 in California by Michael Patterson, is an industry leading energy technology company focused on designing and manufacturing lithium-ion battery modules and packs for commercial electric vehicles. Through its energy dense battery modules and packs, Romeo Power enables large-scale sustainable transportation by delivering safer, longer lasting batteries with shorter charge times. With greater energy density, Romeo Power is able to create lightweight and efficient solutions that deliver superior performance, and provide improved acceleration, range, safety and durability. Romeo Power’s modules and packs are customizable and scalable, and they are optimized by its proprietary battery management system. The company has approximately 100 employees and more than 60 battery-specific engineers and a 113,000 square foot manufacturing facility in Los Angeles, California with key battery development capabilities performed in-house. On October 5, 2020, Romeo Power and RMG announced a definitive agreement for a business combination that would result in Romeo Power becoming a publicly listed company. Upon closing of the transaction, the combined company will be named Romeo Power, Inc. and is expected to remain listed on the NYSE and trade under the new ticker symbol “RMO.” For additional information on Romeo Power, please visit https://romeopower.com

Important Information and Where to Find It

This press release relates to a proposed transaction between RMG and Romeo Power. RMG has filed with the SEC a registration statement on Form S-4 that includes a proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus, which was declared effective on Thursday, December 10, 2020 by the SEC. The proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus will be mailed to stockholders of RMG as of a record date to be established for voting on the proposed business combination. RMG also will file other relevant documents from time to time regarding the proposed transaction with the SEC. INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS OF RMG ARE URGED TO READ THE PROXY STATEMENT/CONSENT SOLICITATION STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS AND OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS THAT WILL BE FILED BY RMG FROM TIME TO TIME WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION. Investors and security holders will be able to obtain free copies of the proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus and other documents containing important information about RMG and Romeo Power once such documents are filed with the SEC, through the website maintained by the SEC at http://www.sec.gov. Copies of the documents filed with the SEC by RMG when and if available, can be obtained free of charge on RMG’s website at www.rmgacquistion.com or by directing a written request to RMG Acquisition Corp., 50 West Street, Suite 40-C, New York, New York 10006.

Participants in the Solicitation

RMG and Romeo Power and their respective directors and executive officers, under SEC rules, may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies of RMG’s stockholders in connection with the proposed transaction. Investors and security holders may obtain more detailed information regarding the names and interests in the proposed transaction of RMG’s directors and officers in RMG’s filings with the SEC, including RMG’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, which was filed with the SEC on April 1, 2019. Information regarding the persons who may, under SEC rules, be deemed participants in the solicitation of proxies to RMG’s stockholders in connection with the proposed business combination will be set forth in the proxy statement/prospectus for the proposed business combination when available. Additional information regarding the interests of participants in the solicitation of proxies in connection with the proposed business combination is included in the proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus relating to the proposed business combination.

No Offer or Solicitation

This communication shall neither constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which the offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

Forward Looking Statements

This press release includes “forward looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used in this press release, the words “estimates,” “projected,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “forecasts,” “plans,” “intends,” “believes,” “seeks,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “future,” “propose” and variations of these words or similar expressions (or the negative versions of such words or expressions) are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results, and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are outside RMG’s or Romeo Power’s management’s control, that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Important factors, among others, that may affect actual results or outcomes include: the inability to complete the transactions contemplated by the proposed business combination; the inability to recognize the anticipated benefits of the proposed business combination, which may be affected by, among other things, the amount of cash available following any redemptions by RMG stockholders; the ability to meet the NYSE’s listing standards following the consummation of the transactions contemplated by the proposed business combination; costs related to the proposed business combination; Romeo Power’s ability to execute on its plans to develop and market new products and the timing of these development programs; Romeo Power’s estimates of the size of the markets for its products; the rate and degree of market acceptance of Romeo Power’s products; the success of other competing technologies that may become available; Romeo Power’s ability to identify and integrate acquisitions; the performance of Romeo Power’s products; potential litigation involving RMG or Romeo Power; and general economic and market conditions impacting demand for Romeo Power’s products. Other factors include the possibility that the proposed transaction does not close, including due to the failure to receive required security holder approvals, or the failure of other closing conditions. The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. You should carefully consider the foregoing factors and the other risks and uncertainties described in the “Risk Factors” section of RMG’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, the registration statement on Form S-4 and proxy statement/consent solicitation statement/prospectus discussed below and other documents filed by RMG from time to time with the SEC. These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and neither RMG nor Romeo Power undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

Romeo Power

For Investors

ICR, Inc.

[email protected]

For Media

ICR, Inc.

[email protected]

RMG Acquisition Corp.

Philip Kassin

Chief Operating Officer

[email protected]

212-785-2579

KEYWORDS: New York United States North America

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Banking Professional Services Alternative Energy Alternative Vehicles/Fuels Energy General Automotive Automotive Trucking Automotive Manufacturing Transport Finance Manufacturing

MEDIA:

Logo
Logo
Logo
Logo
Posted on

Black Hills Corp. Confirms it is Not Participating in CenterPoint Energy Sale Process

RAPID CITY, S.D., Dec. 10, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Black Hills today announced that it has no intent to participate in the CenterPoint Energy sale process for its gas distribution assets in Arkansas and Oklahoma. Black Hills performed a preliminary review of the assets offered for sale and concluded the assets would not be strategic additions.

“While growth through acquisition has been a strength of Black Hills historically, we are currently focused on driving growth through our organic customer-oriented capital investment program,” said President and CEO Linn Evans. “We have a strong $2.9 billion capital investment program from 2020 through 2024 and expect to add to that program given opportunities we are exploring. We would only consider an acquisition if it is highly strategic,” concluded Evans.

Black Hills Corporation

Black Hills Corp. (NYSE: BKH) is a customer focused, growth-oriented utility company with a tradition of improving life with energy and a vision to be the energy partner of choice. Based in Rapid City, South Dakota, the company serves 1.28 million natural gas and electric utility customers in eight states: Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, South Dakota and Wyoming. More information is available at www.blackhillscorp.com.

Investor Relations

Jerome E. Nichols
605-721-1171
[email protected]

24-Hour Media Relations Line
888-242-3969



Posted on

J. Michael McQuade Elected to Albany International Corp. Board

J. Michael McQuade Elected to Albany International Corp. Board

ROCHESTER, N.H.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
Albany International Corp. (NYSE:AIN) announced today that J. Michael McQuade, Ph.D. has been elected to its Board of Directors.

Dr. McQuade, age 65, currently serves as Vice President for Research at Carnegie Mellon University, a private, global research university in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He also serves on the Defense Innovation Board of the United States Department of Defense. From 2006 to 2018, he served as Senior Vice President, Science & Technology at United Technologies Company which, prior to its merger with Raytheon Technologies Company, was a diversified company with extensive aerospace operations. From 2002 to 2006, Dr. McQuade was Vice President of 3M Medical Business Unit and from 2000 to 2001 President, Kodak Health Imaging Business Unit and Senior Vice President, Eastman Kodak. Prior to 2000, Mr. McQuade held various technical and managerial positions at the health imagining businesses of Kodak, 3M Company and Imation. Dr. McQuade holds B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees from Carnegie Mellon University.

Albany International Chairman Erland (Erkie) Kailbourne said, “Michael’s technical, managerial and research skills and experience, as well as his previous responsibilities at United Technologies will bring additional insight to our Company’s research and development activities and its focus on innovation, particularly in its Albany Engineered Composites segment. Additionally, he will bring a wealth of knowledge to our talent development, international operations and global strategic development, lean manufacturing and continuous improvement processes, and the aerospace and defense industries. Dr. McQuade will be an important addition to our Board, and I take great pleasure in welcoming him as a new Director.”

About Albany International Corp.

Albany International is a leading developer and manufacturer of engineered components, using advanced materials processing and automation capabilities, with two core businesses. Machine Clothing is the world’s leading producer of fabrics and process felts used in the manufacture of all grades of paper products. Albany Engineered Composites is a rapidly growing designer and manufacturer of advanced materials-based engineered components for jet engine and airframe applications, supporting both commercial and military platforms. Albany International is headquartered in Rochester, New Hampshire, operates 23 plants in 11 countries, employs more than 4,000 people worldwide, and is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (Symbol AIN). Additional information about the Company and its products and services can be found at www.albint.com.

Investors

Stephen Nolan

603-330-5899

[email protected]

Media

John Hobbs

603-330-5897

[email protected]

KEYWORDS: United States North America New Hampshire

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Aerospace Manufacturing Other Manufacturing Textiles Engineering

MEDIA:

Posted on

San Diego MTS Inks $911M Agreement with Transdev to Provide Bus Operations Services in South Bay and East County

San Diego, Dec. 10, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) Board of Directors approved today a new bus services contract agreement with Transdev Services, Inc. The six-year agreement includes two two-year options that could bring the total value of the contract to $911 million.  The contract was awarded after a competitive bidding process.

Under this agreement, Transdev will operate 52 of 95 bus route services from MTS bus divisions in Chula Vista and El Cajon, using MTS buses and uniforms with MTS branding. In FY 2020, 19.5 million passengers were carried by MTS out of these two divisions. Transdev has been under contract with MTS to provide similar services for the past 13 years.

“This is great news for MTS and for our riders,” said Nathan Fletcher, MTS Board Chair and District 4 County Supervisor. “The Transdev team is a reflection of the diverse communities we serve in the South Bay and East County. They are a big part of the MTS family and will play an important role as MTS converts to a zero-emissions bus fleet. Transdev partners with transit systems all over the world, and brings that great experience and depth in providing transit services, including a long history with MTS.”

As part of the new contract, MTS will provide 332 buses and two state-of-the-art LEED facilities for operations, maintenance and fueling. The contract also includes funding for more than 750 Represented and 65 Non-Represented employees in the San Diego region.  

“We thank MTS for their continued trust and vote of confidence with this important contract renewal. Transdev has been operating in San Diego since 1996 and we’ve made great advances in safety and service.  We look forward to continuing to provide safe, reliable, top quality service and to collaborating with MTS to further enhance the passenger experience,” said Laura Hendricks, chief executive officer of Transdev U.S.

Some priorities for the new contract include:

  • Assisting MTS’ mission to convert to a zero-emissions bus fleet 
    • Operating MTS’ new all-electric Iris Rapid route in 2022 – the latest addition to MTS’ high-frequency, limited-stop bus network 
    • Building overhead electric bus charging infrastructure at the South Bay division
    • Participating in MTS’ Zero Emission Bus Pilot Program on routes in the South Bay and East County  
  • Integrating the new fare collection system, PRONTO, next year
  • Participating in I-805 Bus on Shoulder Operation (3-year pilot/SANDAG) 
  • Continue operating South Bay Rapid (Otay Mesa to Downtown San Diego)
  • Maintaining a strong focus on key performance indicators like on-time performance, safety and customer service 

About MTS

MTS continues to operate 95 bus routes and three Trolley lines. Frequencies and spans have been restored to near-pre-COVID-19 levels. Updated schedules can be accessed on the MTS website. MTS asks that that people wear face coverings at all times and practice physical distancing when possible.

About Transdev

Based near Chicago, Transdev is the largest private-sector operator of multiple modes of transit in North America, including bus, rail, streetcar, paratransit, and shuttle services. Transdev is committed to being the trusted partner of cities and transit authorities through quality execution and innovations in mobility. Its parent company, Transdev Group, is a leading global operator and integrator of mobility operating in 17 countries and provides passengers every day the freedom to connect to what they care about in their cities. www.transdevna.com


##

Attachment 



Mitun Seguin
Transdev North America
3016743733
[email protected]

Posted on

AGNC Investment Corp. Announces Leadership Succession

PR Newswire

BETHESDA, Md., Dec. 10, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — AGNC Investment Corp. (Nasdaq: AGNC) (“AGNC” or the “Company”) announced today that, effective July 1, 2021, Gary Kain, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer, will transition to the role of Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”). As Executive Chairman, Mr. Kain will remain an integral member of the executive management team and continue to play a significant role in the Company’s ongoing investment decisions, risk management activities, and capital management strategies. In his new capacity, Mr. Kain will also, in consultation with the Lead Independent Director, preside over AGNC’s board and stockholder meetings. Mr. Kain’s term as Executive Chairman will begin on July 1, 2021 and is expected to continue through at least December 31, 2022. Prue Larocca, currently AGNC’s Board Chair, will continue as the Board’s Lead Independent Director and will become Vice Chair, effective July 1, 2021.

Today, the Board also announced that it has selected Peter Federico, who currently serves as President and Chief Operating Officer, to succeed Mr. Kain as the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, and Christopher Kuehl, who currently serves as Executive Vice President, to become the Company’s Chief Investment Officer, both effective July 1, 2021.

“Peter, Chris and I have worked together for virtually my entire tenure with AGNC, and I look forward to continuing our partnership over the coming years as I transition to my new role as Executive Chairman,” said Mr. Kain. “While I will remain actively engaged in important investment decisions such as asset selection, leverage, hedging, and capital allocation, I cannot think of two more capable individuals to lead AGNC’s day to day investment activities. I am confident that their vast knowledge of the industry, experience and strategic vision have prepared them to succeed in their new roles and to further AGNC’s position as a market-leading residential mortgage REIT.  We are confident that this will be a seamless transition and will position AGNC well for the long-term.”

“The management changes announced today provide for the continuity of our management team, whose strength is one of our key competitive advantages,” said Ms. Larocca.  “Gary is a thought leader in the mortgage space, and his extraordinary stewardship over the years has driven AGNC’s growth and investment excellence since 2009, creating exceptional value for our stockholders.  Peter and Chris are highly respected leaders who have contributed immensely to AGNC’s success since joining the Company, and I am confident they will drive AGNC’s strong performance over the years to come. I also look forward to continuing to work with Gary in his new role as Executive Chairman, and we will work closely with our Board to oversee AGNC’s strategy and focus on the long-term interests of our stockholders.”

Mr. Kain has served as AGNC’s Chief Executive Officer since March 2016 and Chief Investment Officer since January 2009, when he joined the Company. He previously served as President from April 2011 until March 2018.

“I am honored to be selected as the next Chief Executive Officer of AGNC,” said Mr. Federico.  “Above all else, I look forward to the opportunity to lead the phenomenal AGNC team as we strive, as always, to deliver best-in-class risk-adjusted returns to our stockholders. It has been a true privilege to collaborate with Gary over the past decade at AGNC to drive significant equity growth and strong total stock and economic returns. Chris and I look forward to continuing to partner with him in our new roles.”

Mr. Federico joined AGNC in May 2011 and has served as President and Chief Operating Officer since March 2018. Previously, Mr. Federico was Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer from July 2016 until March 2018 and Senior Vice President and Chief Risk Officer from June 2011 until July 2016. 

Mr. Kuehl joined AGNC in August 2010 and has served as AGNC’s Executive Vice President – Agency Portfolio Investments since November 2016. He was previously a Senior Vice President from March 2012 through October 2016.

For further information or questions, please contact Investor Relations at (301) 968-9300 or [email protected].

ABOUT AGNC INVESTMENT CORP.
AGNC Investment Corp. is an internally managed real estate investment trust that invests primarily in residential mortgage-backed securities for which the principal and interest payments are guaranteed by a U.S. Government-sponsored enterprise or a U.S. Government agency.  For further information, please refer to www.AGNC.com.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This press release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on estimates, projections, beliefs and assumptions of management of the Company at the time of such statements and are not guarantees of future performance. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties in predicting future results and conditions. Actual results could differ materially from those projected in these forward-looking statements due to a variety of important factors, including, without limitation, changes in interest rates, changes in the yield curve, changes in prepayment rates, the availability and terms of financing, changes in the market value of the Company’s assets, general economic conditions, market conditions, conditions in the market for agency securities, and legislative and regulatory changes that could adversely affect the business of the Company. Certain factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements, are included in the Company’s periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Copies are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. The Company disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements based on the occurrence of future events, the receipt of new information, or otherwise.

CONTACT:
Investor Relations – (301) 968-9300
Media Relations – (301) 968-9303

Cision View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/agnc-investment-corp-announces-leadership-succession-301190849.html

SOURCE AGNC Investment Corp.