SolarCraft Brings Solar Power to Cal-West Locations in San Rafael and Petaluma

Novato, CA, June 25, 2024 –Together, the solar photovoltaic systems at Cal-West’s San Rafael and Petaluma sites are expected to generate nearly 60,000 kWh per year. This will offset approximately 90% of Cal-West’s electricity usage from the utilities, replacing it with clean, sustainable solar energy.

The newly installed solar panels are expected to offset 42 metric tons of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) every year. This is equivalent to removing over 107,000 miles driven by an average gasoline-powered passenger vehicle, saving 97 barrels of oil, or the carbon sequestered by 49 acres of trees in one year.

The owners of Cal-West Rentals display their commitment to sustainability with strategic solar energy investments. They began with their sister company, Encore Events Rentals, and now have solar installations at three locations, all by SolarCraft. By prioritizing renewable energy, Cal-West not only reduces its carbon footprint but also exemplifies responsible business practices, setting a high standard for environmental stewardship in the industry.

Sooper Dooper Kids Clothing Partners with Sheikha Arwa Al Qassimi to Launch a Kindness Movement Empowering Children

25th June 2024  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  Sooper Dooper Kids, a purpose-driven ecommerce children’s clothing brand has received an undisclosed sum of funding from Her Highness Sheikha Arwa Al Qassimi of Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah.

Dedicated to fashion with a purpose, Sooper Dooper Kids caters to children aged 5 to 12, introducing the “One Purchased = One Donated” initiative, promising to spread joy and opportunity to underprivileged children across India.

Their inaugural collection features premium printed 100% cotton tees, crafted for comfort, breathability, and durability. Adorned with whimsical characters brought to life through cutting-edge Direct to Garment printing technology, each piece is a testament to their dedication to quality and creativity.

Founder Nevil Darukhanawala, emphasizes, “Wanting to leave behind a kinder and more inclusive world for my 9 year old daughter Ariana is what inspired me to launch the Sooper Dooper Kids impact platform where all parents and children can participate in making the dream of a better world come true. At Sooper Dooper Kids, fashion is not just about wearing; it’s about caring and sharing too.”

The partnership with Her Highness Sheikha Arwa Al Qassimi marks a pivotal moment in the brand’s mission to inspire kindness and compassion, empowering children to witness the transformative impact of their choices on peers in need.

“We are thrilled to unite with Sooper Dooper Kids in our quest to spread joy and opportunity to children in need,” expresses Her Highness Sheikha Arwa Al Qassimi. “Acts of kindness, no matter how small, have the power to brighten someone’s day and create a ripple effect of positivity. By nurturing kindness, inclusivity, generosity, and the spirit of giving back, we empower young minds to believe in their ability to effect change in the world.”

Sooper Dooper Kids distributes the donated t-shirts using a network of organizations and charities that are already supporting and working with underprivileged kids living in the streets, rural areas and cities. The brand is committed to full transparency and each donated item is verified and available for everyone to follow the impact journey and stories.

“We invite parents and children alike to embark on this journey of spreading kindness and making a difference,” urges Darukhanawala. “Together, we can build a world where kindness, inclusivity, and generosity reign supreme.”

For more information about Sooper Dooper Kids and it’s transformative initiatives, please visit www.sooperdooperkids.com.

Butterfly Gandhimathi Appliances Ltd. Appoints Ms. Swetha Sagar as its Manager & Chief Business Officer

25th June 2024 Chennai | Mumbai, India Butterfly Gandhimathi Appliances Ltd., South India’s leading kitchen and small domestic appliances player has appointed Ms. Swetha Sagar as Manager & Chief Business Officer – Butterfly Gandhimathi Appliances Ltd. with effect from 15th June 2024 subject to the approval of shareholders of the company. In her role, she would continue to lead the Butterfly business.

Ms. Swetha Sagar brings a wealth of experience to the role, with over 19 years in brand management, strategic planning, and business development. Throughout her career, she has held leadership positions at renowned companies such as Versuni India (previously Philips Domestic Appliances), Hindustan Coca-Cola, and Hutchinson Essar.

Mr. Rangarajan Sriram, Managing Director of Butterfly Gandhimathi Appliances and head of Kitchen Appliances division at Crompton has stepped down as Managing Director with effect from 14th June 2024. Mr. Sriram has been associated with Crompton since 2012 and led Butterfly Gandhimathi Appliances Ltd. since its acquisition in March 2022. He has been an integral part to the organisation and contributed immensely to the business. We are grateful for his efforts in building and strengthening the organisation at Crompton and Butterfly.

Promeet Ghosh, MD & CEO, Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals Ltd., (company holding 75% of Butterfly Gandhimathi Appliances Ltd.) said, “We express our sincere gratitude to Mr. Sriram for his leadership and the significant role he played in both Crompton & Butterfly. Ms. Swetha’s proven expertise aligns perfectly with our vision for Butterfly’s continued growth. We are committed to further solidifying Butterfly’s position as a leading kitchen appliance brand in India.”

He further added, “Butterfly is a strong brand, and we are one of the largest integrated kitchen appliance players in India, holding a leadership position across many categories. We will ensure a smooth continuation of Butterfly’s operations amidst this leadership transition. We are deeply invested in strengthening our market position and delivering superior kitchen appliance solutions that elevate the cooking experience in Indian households.”

RideBoom to Expand Mobility Solutions with Launch of Electric Auto Rickshaw Service

Delhi, India, June 25, 2024 — RideBoom is poised to transform urban transportation by providing a convenient, eco-friendly, and affordable alternative to traditional commuting methods. RideBoom, a leading provider of bike and taxi sharing, today announced the upcoming launch of its electric auto rickshaw service in a major city. This strategic expansion builds on the company’s mission to revolutionize urban transportation and offer eco-friendly mobility options to the community.

“We are excited to introduce our electric auto rickshaw service as the latest addition to the RideBoom portfolio,” said Harminder Malhi known as Harry Malhi, CEO of RideBoom. “By expanding beyond taxi and bike scooters, we are empowering residents to choose sustainable transportation that best fits their commuting needs – whether that’s a compact, taxi, scooter or a spacious, three-wheeled rickshaw.”

The RideBoom electric auto rickshaws will feature:

· All-electric powertrains with zero direct emissions
· Roomy interiors that can comfortably accommodate up to 3 passengers.
· Advanced safety features including seatbelts, emergency braking, and rear-view cameras.
· Smartphone connectivity for seamless booking and tracking through the RideBoom mobile app.
· Access to RideBoom’s extensive network of designated pickup and drop-off locations.
· Helmet storage and charging capabilities for user convenience.
· Advanced safety features and regular maintenance for rider security.

Similar to the company’s taxi and bike service, the electric auto rickshaws will be available on a pay-per-ride or subscription basis, providing residents with flexible and affordable transportation options.

RideBoom commitment to sustainability extends beyond vehicle electrification. The company will work closely with local officials and community stakeholders to ensure the seamless integration of the new service, minimizing any potential impact on traffic flow and infrastructure.

“RideBoom expansion into electric auto rickshaws represents our continued dedication to delivering innovative mobility solutions that cater to the diverse needs of urban residents,” added Harminder Malhi. “We look forward to partnering with the community to make sustainable transportation more accessible and convenient than ever before.”

Hong Kong Tourism Board and Art Basel Announce Three-Year Global Partnership

25th June 2024  Hong Kong  The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) and Art Basel are delighted to announce a new three-year global partnership, marking a significant milestone in cultural collaboration. With this new partnership, HKTB became the pioneering tourism organization to forge a global strategic alliance with Art Basel. This groundbreaking announcement took place during the press conference of Art Basel in Basel. The collaboration transcends Hong Kong, extending its reach to all Art Basel shows worldwide, commencing with Art Basel Paris this October.

Mr. Dane Cheng, HKTB Executive Director, and Mr Noah Horowitz, CEO of Art Basel, announced the new global partnership during the press conference of Art Basel in Basel

As part of this dynamic alliance, HKTB will serve as a Show Partner of Art Basel to celebrate Hong Kong art and culture on the world stage. Over the next three years, HKTB will be present in four annual shows, including Art Basel in Paris, Miami Beach, Hong Kong, and Basel, with different thematic experiences or activations.

The organisations’ three-year partnership will kick off with Art Basel Paris, taking place at the Grand Palais in the French capital from 18-20 October 2024.

Started first in 1970, Art Basel stages the world’s premier modern and contemporary art shows and fairs. The annual art event hosted in Basel, Miami Beach, Paris, and Hong Kong, provides a platform for galleries and artists to showcase and sell their work to buyers, in collaboration with host cities’ to aid the development of art programs.

Mr. Dane Cheng, HKTB Executive Director, said, “Our strategic alliance with Art Basel underscores our commitment to promoting Hong Kong as the East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange, and a valuable gateway to the Chinese art market. By sharing the city’s unique character through immersive experiences and exhibitions at the world’s most prestigious art platform, we hope to inspire travellers to visit our city and discover its thriving creative community and rich cultural experiences.”

Noah Horowitz, Art Basel CEO, said, “We are thrilled to build on our longstanding collaboration with the Hong Kong Tourism Board and launch this ambitious initiative. By shining a global spotlight on Hong Kong’s vibrant art scene, this partnership will enhance the experience for our fair visitors while unlocking new opportunities and fostering deeper connections between Hong Kong and art communities around the world.”

Since its inception in Hong Kong in 2013, Art Basel has collaborated with HKTB on several successful projects together since 2020. This March, the tourism board joined hands with the fair to present a local “Cha Chaan Teng” experience that aimed to highlight the vibrant living culture of Hong Kong. Inside a colourful, purpose-built cha chaan teng (Hong Kong-style cafe), visitors enjoyed local delicacies, such as the city’s iconic pineapple buns and milk tea, while experiencing Hong Kong’s East-meets-West heritage firsthand.

The 2024 edition of Art Basel Hong Kong showcased 242 leading galleries from the Asia–Pacific, Europe, the Americas, Africa, and the Middle East. Marking the second decade of Art Basel’s operation in Asia’s world city, the event welcomed over 75,000 visitors from around the world. Art Basel Hong Kong has also announced that from 2025 onwards, MGM will present a new prize for Discoveries, the show’s sector for solo presentations by emerging artists.

John Pontillo from RE/MAX Town & Country Highlights Robust Westchester County Real Estate Market

White Plains, NY, June 25, 2024 –The Westchester County real estate market continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience despite ongoing challenges with low inventory and rising home prices.

Recent data indicates that Westchester County’s housing market is experiencing significant growth in home values. The average home value in the county has risen by 6.9% over the past year, reaching $773,679. Homes are selling rapidly, with the median number of days on the market dropping to 27 days from 44 days last year. This indicates a highly competitive market where buyers must act swiftly to secure their desired properties.

“The Westchester County real estate market is thriving, and we are seeing a surge in home values and buyer interest,” said John Pontillo, Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) and realtor at RE/MAX Town & Country. “Buyers are eager to invest in properties here, and sellers are benefiting from the competitive market conditions.”

In May 2024 alone, 645 homes were sold, with 65% of them being sold within 30 days of listing. This swift turnover reflects strong buyer demand and the limited availability of homes for sale. Additionally, the market has seen a notable increase in home prices, with the median sale price for all home types reaching $670,000, up 17% from the previous year.

John Pontillo added, “For anyone considering selling their home, now is an ideal time. The current market conditions provide an excellent opportunity to achieve a favorable sale price.”