Merrill’s Packaging Ready to Support Distributors Affected by McConkey Closure

Burlingame, CA, July 03, 2024 — In response to the recent announcement of McConkey’s closure, Merrill’s Packaging is prepared to offer immediate support to distributors and companies impacted by this development. The company recognizes the critical need for reliable and high-quality containers and flower pots during this time.

Merrill’s Packaging is committed to sustainability, utilizing recycled materials to produce a variety of flower pots. The products are manufactured in the San Francisco Bay Area using domestically sourced recycled plastic, ensuring both quality and environmental responsibility. Orders are fulfilled promptly to prevent any disruption in supply chains.

The company is pleased to offer the DURA POTS line, with four sizes immediately available for shipping. The most popular flower pots, the GDP-350 (3.45″ square pot) and GDP-400 (4.0″ square pot), are complemented by other sizes to meet a range of horticultural needs and serve as direct replacements for McConkey’s JMCS55-1, JMCTS400, and JMCSQ330.

Additionally, Merrill’s Packaging’s manufacturing partners are equipped to provide support with a wide range of planters, flower pots, containers, trays, and flats. Distributors and partners are encouraged to reach out with product requests to ensure a seamless transition and continued customer satisfaction.

Skyview by Empyrean and K.A Sports & Events Successfully Host India’s Most Beautiful Hill Race – Patnitop Marathon 4.0 in Jammu’s Patnitop on May 26

Skyview by Empyrean, India’s leading sustainable mobility and tourism infrastructure destination, ushered in the 4th edition of India’s most beautiful hill race – the Patnitop Marathon 4.0 – on May 26th with much aplomb. It was organized by K.A. Sports and Events, a company founded by Iron Man 140.6 miles triathlete Kapil Arora, with support from the Patnitop Development Authority and Jammu and Kashmir Tourism.

Brigadier Shantanu Kashyap, Sena Medal, Brig Aviation HQ, Northern Command, graced the event as the chief guest. Whereas several dignitaries including Deputy Commissioner Udhampur – Ms. Saloni Rai, IAS, Joint Director Tourism – Ms Sunaina Sharma Mehta, JKAS, and CEO Patnitop Development Authority – Sh. Devender Singh Bhau, JKAS, were also present on the occasion.

This iconic edition celebrated the spirit of sportsmanship and promoted the importance of health and fitness among people of all age groups. It also drew over 500 participants from 48 cities and 14 states and union territories across the country.

“I want to congratulate all organizers for successfully organizing Patnitop 4.0. I am sure this will help in promoting Patnitop across India. Additionally, such events also adhere to the objectives of the Fit-India movement. I wish all the participants who have come from various locations all the very best,” said Ms. Deputy Commissioner Udhampur – Ms. Saloni Rai, IAS.

Runners participated under four age categories: 18-35 years, 35-45 years, 45-55 years, and 55+ years in the competitive 21.1km half marathon and 10km run. The non-competitive 5-km run was open to participants of 5 years and above.

The winners of the various categories were:

“Being a premium destination that represents adventure, luxury, nature, and sustainability, hosting the annual Patnitop Marathon is a natural extension of what we represent at Skyview by Empyrean. We are delighted to have hosted this chapter of the race in association with Mr. Kapil Arora. The scenic run offered participants an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Himalayan region while challenging themselves physically. We hope they thoroughly enjoyed setting new personal records against the beautiful backdrop of the Jammu hills,” said Owais Altaf Syed, Group Director at FIL Industries Private Limited.

Participants received an official t-shirt, a finisher’s medal, a post-race breakfast, a sports drink, race day photos, and a digital certificate. Furthermore, each runner could avail themselves of a complimentary two-way gondola ride on the race day.

Invest in Bajaj Finserv Multi Asset Allocation Fund; NFO ends 27th May

Pune, Maharashtra, India  Today marks the final day of the New Fund Offer (NFO) for the Bajaj Finserv Multi Asset Allocation Fund. The NFO, closing today, offers a chance to engage in a diverse portfolio strategy, blending various asset classes for potential growth and risk management. As investors seek to optimize their portfolios amidst market uncertainties, the Bajaj Finserv Multi Asset Allocation Fund emerges as a suitable option, seeking a balanced approach to wealth accumulation in long term. With the NFO closing, now is the time for investors to seize the opportunity and explore the potential benefits this fund offers.

The Bajaj Finserv Multi Asset Allocation Fund invests in companies that pay high dividends. These are companies that give back a portion of their profits to their shareholders. This is good for investors because it means they can get regular income from their investments.

Investing in companies that pay high dividends has several benefits.

• First, these companies often have low prices compared to their earnings. This means you can buy their stock at a reasonable price, which could go up over time.
• Second, when you reinvest the dividends you receive, your money can grow even faster. This is because of something called compounding. When you reinvest your dividends, you earn more dividends on the new shares you bought with them. Over time, this can add up to a lot of money.
• Third, when interest rates go down, dividend-paying companies become even more attractive. This is because other investments, like bonds, may not offer as much return. So, investors may turn to dividend-paying stocks instead, which can drive up their prices.
• Lastly, companies that regularly pay dividends often increase them over time. By investing in these companies, you can get more money in dividends each year. This can provide a steady income stream and help your investments grow.

The Bajaj Finserv Multi Asset Allocation Fund also makes investing easy by diversifying your money for you. Diversification means spreading your money across different types of investments. This helps reduce the risk of losing money if one investment doesn’t do well.

Instead of trying to pick individual investments yourself, you can put your money into this fund, and they will do the work for you. They spread your money across different assets, like stocks, bonds, and other investments. This way, if one part of the market is not doing well, other parts may be doing better, helping to balance out any losses.

By diversifying your investments, you can also take advantage of growth opportunities in different areas of the market. For example, when stocks are doing well, bonds may not be, and vice versa. By having your money spread out, you can benefit from whichever part of the market is doing well at any given time.

As the NFO concludes today, investors must make informed decisions that align with their financial objectives and risk tolerance. By seizing this chance to start an SIP in the Bajaj Finserv Multi Asset Allocation Fund, investors can position themselves strategically to navigate market fluctuations and potentially achieve long-term wealth accumulation.

Sheila Mayo’s Newly Released A Wonderful Secret

San Antonio, TX, July 03, 2024 — “A Wonderful Secret”: an enchanting adventure alongside the great turaco bird and his feathered friends. “A Wonderful Secret” is the creation of published author, Sheila Mayo.

Mayo shares, “A Wonderful Secret is a children’s book filled with the opulent birds of Africa. The story begins with the great turaco bird dressed in his vibrant green feathers. This day, the sun is shining brightly, and the sky is crystal clear blue. While singing away to his beautiful song, the great turaco bird was suddenly captivated by a special secret. When this happened, the turaco bird’s heart was filled with joy and delight! The turaco bird is excited to share his secret with more of his wonderful bird friends: there is the bee-eater bird, who has many colors on his coat; the oxpecker bird, who is helpful to the herds of Africa; the orange bishop bird, with his fire-orange feathers; and the brilliant-colored dove, who lives in the great big baobab tree; and there are many others. The baobab tree is a spectacular tree and is also known as the tree of life. You will enjoy reading this wonderful book for the colorful illustrations and the special secret it has for all children. It carries a special message for young readers all over the world to share and live by. My wish is that children will read this book, be inspired, and know they are loved.”

Shriram Finance FD Now Available on Bajaj Markets; Earn High Interest Returns

Pune, Maharashtra, India Bajaj Markets, a digital financial marketplace, has partnered with Shriram Finance to offer high-yielding Fixed Deposits (FDs) online. This partnership aims to provide customers a secure investment option, offering interest rates of up to 9.40% p.a.

The Shriram Finance Fixed Deposit caters to a diverse range of investors, including senior citizens and women, offering additional benefits to maximize their returns. Senior citizens can earn 0.50% p.a. higher interest compared to non-senior citizens.

One can enjoy the following benefits of investing in this FD:

• Additional interest of 0.10% p.a. for women
• 0.25% p.a. increase in interest rate upon renewal
• Flexible tenors ranging between 12 months and 60 months
• Cumulative and non-cumulative interest payout options

This strategic partnership underscores Bajaj Markets’ commitment to expanding its offerings and providing superior financial products that meet the evolving needs of today’s investors. Here’s why individuals should invest in fixed deposits through this marketplace:

• Access to the FD calculator
• Minimal documentation
• 100% online process

Individuals who wish to get started with their savings journey can download the Bajaj Markets app or visit the website. Users can also explore loans, credit cards, insurance, and investments on this financial marketplace. These categories cater to the diverse needs of investors, helping them build a corpus, save money, secure their future, and make sound financial decisions.

MTG Launched My First Library – A Set of Ten Engaging Board Books for Toddlers

Gurgaon, Haryana, India  MTG Learning Media is elated to our entry into the realm of early childhood development with the launch of an enchanting new product designed to spark early literacy and a lifelong love for reading: “My First Library.” This delightful collection of ten captivating board books is specially created for toddlers, blending vibrant illustrations with engaging stories for a magical reading experience from the very start.

“My First Library” is thoughtfully created to provide young children (aged 1 to 3 years) with an engaging and interactive reading experience. Each book in the set is designed with vibrant illustrations, simple text, and durable pages, making them perfect for little hands and inquisitive minds.

Key Features of MTG’s “My First Library”

Engaging Content: Each board book is filled with colorful illustrations and simple, easy-to-understand text that captures the imagination of toddlers and keeps them engaged.

Educational Themes: The ten books cover a wide range of topics including colors, shapes, animals, fruits and everyday objects, providing a comprehensive learning experience for young children.

Durable Design: Made from sturdy, child-safe materials. With rounded corners, it is safe to use. These board books are built to withstand the wear and tear of enthusiastic little readers.

Interactive Learning: The books encourage interactive learning through fun activities and questions that prompt toddlers to explore and discover the world around them.

Bonding between Parent-child: These books enhance the bond between kids and parents.

Development of Curiosity: Interactive elements like lift-the-flap and touch stimulate curiosity in young children and give them a hands-on feeling.

Brain & Speech Development: Introduction to basic topics like animals, colors, fruits, etc., helps in cognitive development and enhances vocabulary at an early age.

Love for Reading and Exploration: Promotes a love for reading, nurturing a lifelong habit of learning and exploration in children.

About the Board Books

These board books are based on 10 themes that cover:

• Alphabets
• Numbers & Shapes
• Colors
• Fruits
• Vegetables
• Farm Animals & Pets
• Wild Animals
• Birds
• Transport
• Body Parts

Why Choose “MTG’s My First Library”?

“My First Library” is more than just a set of books; it’s an essential tool for parents and caregivers to support their child’s early development. By providing a rich and interactive reading experience, these books lay the foundation for a lifelong love of learning and knowledge.

Testimonials

“We love ‘MTG’s My First Library’! The books are beautifully illustrated and perfect for our playschool’s kids’ curious minds. It’s amazing to see how quickly they are picking up new words and concepts,” Pratima Misra, Nunkun PlaySchool, Delhi.

“MTG’s My First Library’ has become an integral part of our daily routine. The books are durable, engaging, and educational – everything we were looking for in early reading materials for our child,” Prashant Kumar, Indore.

Where you can get them

“MTG’s My First Library” is now available for purchase online from www.mtg.in, Amazon or Flipkart and at select retailers nationwide. For any bulk buying queries, connect with the MTG support on 0124-6601200.

My First Library is dedicated to creating high-quality, educational, and engaging products for young children. Our mission is to inspire a love for reading and learning from an early age, helping children develop essential skills that will serve them throughout their lives.

CRASH Jewelry Celebrates Cadillac and Endurance Sports Car Racing in Two Innovative Designs

Los Angeles, CA, July 03, 2024 –– For more than a century, racing has provided a launch pad for Cadillac to transfer knowledge and technology between race cars and production vehicles, and a way to build a fanbase around the world.

To illustrate Cadillac’s commitment to performance, the brand collaborated with CRASH Jewelry to produce limited edition upcycled jewelry made from CT5-V Blackwing Steel in original General Motors colors.

Two styles are available in Black Raven and Chartreuse Metallic Paint – the Blackwing Icon Cuff and the V-Performance Pattern Cuff. Each design consists of a limited edition run of only 75 pieces.

Using emerging laser technology, CRASH Jewelry’s innovative designs are created through a process that selectively preserves and highlights the original General Motors colors. The Blackwing Icon Cuff depicts the repeating logo pattern that, at first glance, resembles a tire tread.

As its name indicates, the V-Performance Pattern Cuff portrays just that but in both colors as a double cuff.

The Cadillac wordmark is engraved inside every cuff, along with a custom CRASH Jewelry VIN, and a serial number to denote its position in the exclusive series.

Both Blackwing Cuffs can be found on the V-Series 20th Anniversary Collection website.

MAAC Revolutionizes Animation and VFX Courses with Technological Advancements

Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  MAAC, a premiere institute and a pioneer in high-end 3D animation Gaming & VFX training, has recently unveiled a significant overhaul to five of its flagship courses, integrating cutting-edge technology upgrades and incorporating essential software and techniques. The revamped courses include IPVAD, AD3D Edge, DGWA, VFX plus, and ADVFX, each tailored to meet the evolving demands of the industry. Recognizing the growing need for skilled professionals in emerging fields, MAAC has also introduced two new courses: 3D and Realtime Design Plus, and UI & UX program, aligning with contemporary industry trends. Notably, most of these programs are GEN AI-enabled, offering advanced learning experiences* (*applicable to select courses), ensuring students are equipped with the latest tools and expertise to excel in their chosen fields.

AI’s integration into the animation & VFX industry has been a gradual yet transformative process. The recent trends are seen where established software is becoming smarter in its workflows by giving users multiple AI-enabled features. These tools offer significant time and efficiency savings for creative professionals, traditionally burdened with labor-intensive tasks. However, it’s important to note that AI currently serves as an assistant rather than a replacement for creative artists. While AI can handle repetitive tasks and suggest design elements, it lacks the nuanced understanding and creative vision inherent in human animators. However, what is important is that advancements in AI hold promise for a more sophisticated procedural content creation process, potentially leading to new avenues of exploration such as 3D animation, visual effects, and immersive design.

Staying ahead of the curve and relevant to the current demands of the industry, MAAC’s courses have also undergone a transformative upgrade with the integration of essential software tools. From GEN AI-enabled graphic design platforms like Canva, Photogrammetry, Substance 3D Stager and Adobe Express to innovative tools like Storyboarder for creative visualization, students are equipped with industry-relevant skills. Advanced software such as Marvelous Designer and Photogrammetry enhance 3D modeling capabilities, while Adobe Substance 3D Stager and tools like Katana and Redshift cater to the growing demand of photo-realistic visuals.

From pre-visualization tools to concept art creation and assistive intelligence, GEN AI empowers students to explore new creative horizons and streamline their workflows. By embracing GEN AI, MAAC ensures that its students are not only equipped with the latest industry-standard skills but also prepared to lead the charge in innovation within the animation, VFX, and digital design industry.

As emerging fields such as real-time design, UI/UX along with growing adoption of experiential design in various industries take centre stage, MAAC has taken proactive steps to ensure its course offerings remain relevant. The introduction of the 3D and Realtime Design Plus and UI & UX program reflects MAAC’s commitment to staying abreast of industry trends and equipping students with the expertise needed to thrive in these burgeoning sectors.

Indian Buyers Encouraged to Invest in Greece for Permanent Residency in Europe, at an Affordable INR 2.5 Cr Before the Regulations Change on August 31

New Delhi, Delhi, India  The much vied-for Greece Golden Visa, (Permanent Residency) is currently one of the most affordable residency programs in Europe and across the world, that provides global high-net-worth individuals (with family) and investors a permanent home in Europe along with ‘visa-free travel across Europe’. Free health and education as well as the freedom to set up a business in the county are among other benefits of the PR.

Indians, who’ve always dreamt of buying a holiday home in Greece, can avoid the impending price increase by taking prompt action and advancing their property purchases with Leptos Estates before August 31 in exotic locations such as Paros, Crete, and Santorini.

Owning a dream holiday home in Greece as well as a Golden Visa with Permanent Residency, is set to become more expensive for all from August 31, 2024. In September, the Greek government will implement new laws that will double the minimum investment required for global citizens to own real estate in Greece.

Coral Bay Vilas Cyprus

Leptos Estates, a prominent real estate and property development firm specializing in residential, commercial and holiday residences including premium apartments and luxury villas in Greece and Cyprus, invites high-net-worth individuals and investors from India to act swiftly and make their property investments in Greece before the rules change later this year.

Over the last few years, the popularity and demand for Greece’s Golden Visa Programme launched in 2013, has surged leading the Greek government to reconsider the entry points for real estate investment and Permanent Residency.

As per the new rule regarding Greece’s Golden Visa Program that is expected to be effective on August 31, 2024, there will be two minimum investment slabs for real estate transactions in the country. In Tier I, which comprises popular areas like Attica, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, and the islands, the minimum investment is expected to go up to Euro 800,000 from the current Euro 500,000; and in Tier II that covers all other regions of Greece, the entry point will go up to Euro 400,000 from the current Euro 250,000.

“As the deadline approaches, prices are expected to surge, potentially making the dream of owning a Greek home less attainable for Indian investors. We urge high net-worth individuals and investors to grab this unique once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to secure a Permanent Residency in Greece while enjoying the chance to make promising returns on their investment at a minimum cost of an affordable Euro 250,000. Once the new rules come into effect, the cost will double, and it will be a great chance missed. We have some aesthetically and sustainably designed, fully functional apartments and villas across Greece and in regions like Paros Crete, and Santorini that would make great homes for global citizens,” said Sanjay Sachdev, Group Marketing Director, Leptos Estates.

Aphrodite Gardens Cyprus

Investors can still apply under the current Euro 250,000 minimum threshold if they pay a 10% deposit by Aug 31, 2024, and finalise the investment by December 31, 2024.

Among the several benefits of owning both a home and a Permanent Residency in one of the world’s oldest civilizations is visa-free travel within Europe’s Schengen area, high returns from Greece’s booming real estate market, perfect weather throughout the year, and a chance to experience the charming, idyllic Mediterranean culture.

The Residency applies to the whole family (married spouse, children under 21 years old, and parents of the main applicant and spouse) with eligibility to apply for citizenship also

Foreign homeowners in Greece are not required to reside in Greece and residence permits can be acquired within 6 months. Owners also have the option to rent out their investment property.

Aster DM Healthcare Announces Rs. 250 Cr Expansion Plans for Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru; to Add 350 Beds

Aster DM Healthcare Limited (“Company”), one of the largest integrated healthcare providers in India, has announced its expansion plan for Aster CMI Hospital, a leading multispecialty hospital in Bengaluru. The unit will have an additional infrastructure expansion of 300,000 sq feet thereby increasing its bed capacity from the existing 500 beds to 850 beds. With this development, the company is further strengthening its presence in Bengaluru, reaching a cumulative bed strength of 1602 beds, thereby becoming one of the largest healthcare providers in the city. The Company will invest around Rs. 250 cr to upgrade the existing facility and is expected to be commissioned by FY2027.

Spread across an area of 4.45 lakh square feet in Hebbal, Bangalore, Aster CMI Hospital, is one of the leading super-specialty hospitals with contemporary state-of-the-art facilities offering comprehensive primary care to quaternary care services. Since its launch in 2016, the hospital has secured its place as one of the best multispecialty hospitals in the country today – a testament to the hospital’s dedication of continuously raising the bar for clinical standards in the country.

Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman, Aster DM Healthcare said, “Our phase-wise expansion is aligned with our vision to serve the growing needs for advanced and quality healthcare. Aster CMI Hospital since its launch in 2016 has revolutionized the healthcare market in Bengaluru and the whole of South India. Today, the hospital stands amongst the leading players in the market. With many innovative and ambitious initiatives, Aster DM Healthcare has radically catalyzed the healthcare revolution in India. The current Indian healthcare market looks highly promising, and our efforts will be to increase our footprint in the country dynamically. We are investing heavily in our people, innovation and infrastructure to differentiate ourselves and create long-term value for all our stakeholders. The expansion of Aster CMI Hospital thus solidifies our unwavering commitment to the Indian business. The overall India business EBITDA for Aster DM Healthcare has grown at the rate of 35% CAGR over the past 5 years, which is reflected in the performance of EBITDA margin as well. We expect the strong performance to continue in the future, which will be supported by operational leverage on account of brownfield expansion and implementing various cost optimization measures.”

Dr. Nitish Shetty, CEO, Aster DM Healthcare, India said, “We are running our existing hospital (Aster CMI) at full capacity, hence we have decided to expand the infrastructure to accommodate the growing needs of patients. Aster CMI Hospital has already set new benchmarks on healthcare excellence and this expansion cements our promise to making quality healthcare easily accessible to the people in the region. This expansion of Aster CMI Hospital is expected to have a positive impact on both EBITDA and PAT, as it involves minimal fixed costs for operating the additional beds. We do not expect any margin dilution in the short term as well. Aster DM Healthcare (“Company”) is poised to make a significant impact on the healthcare landscape its focus on strategic growth, patient-centric care, and expansion in existing and newer geographies.”

The Company plans to add ~1700 beds by FY27 taking the total bed tally in India to 6600+ through the organic route and will further look for expansion through the inorganic route as well to achieve its aim of becoming the top 3 integrated healthcare providers in India along with a strong presence of labs and pharmacies in the geographies that Aster has a presence in. The plan encompasses a mix of brownfield and greenfield projects, including the upcoming Aster Capital in Trivandrum, and Aster MIMS Kasargod and adding bed capacity to the existing hospitals. The Company will also be eyeing potential markets such as Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh. The capital allocation for this expansion is in the range of 1000cr.

As one of the most trusted healthcare providers, Aster DM Healthcare aspires to keep on raising the benchmark and continue its unwavering dedication of providing outstanding care to its patients.