20, Jun 2024
Announcing Defense Strategies Institute’s 2nd Government Biotechnology Innovation Summit

National Harbor, MD, June 20, 2024 — Biotechnology has rapidly evolved, presenting both promising opportunities and potential threats. The development of rapid diagnostic tools and vaccines against infectious diseases like Ebola or Zika is essential for preempting potential pandemics, thereby safeguarding public health and national stability. Furthermore, biotech innovations enhance agricultural safety by improving crop resilience against pests, diseases, and environmental stressors, ensuring food security—a foundational aspect of national stability.

To this End, Defense Strategies Institute is proud to announce the 2nd Government Biotechnology Innovation Summit on September 4-5. The Government Biotechnology Innovation Summit will bring together senior leaders from across, federal government, research labs, industry, and academia to discuss how the government employs biotechnology for national security purposes, including biodefense initiatives, surveillance of infectious diseases, and the prevention and response to biological threats. The 2024 Summit will be held at 151 George St. in National Harbor, MD, where the biotechnology community will explore the intersection of biotechnology, defense, and the federal government, on wide range of critical topics, reflecting the diverse applications and implications of biotech in national security and public service domains.

2024 Confirmed Speakers

· Peter Marks, MD, PhD, Director, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, FDA
· Valerie Reed, PhD,Director, Bioenergy Technologies Office, Department of Energy
· Deirdra Chester, PhD, Director, Office of the Chief Scientist, USDA
· Steven Witte, Director, Biologics Development Module, National Bio and Agro Defense Facility,
USDA
· Joanne Andreadis, PhD, Associate Director for Science, Office of Science & Public Health Practice, Office of Readiness & Response, CDC
· Mary Larkin, PhD, Program Manager, BARDA Accelerator Network, U.S. Department of HHS
· Seth Faith, PhD, ST, Senior Scientist, Biotechnology and Biomedical Sciences, Air Force Research Laboratory
· Ashley Molinaro, PhD, Director, CBR Division, NSWC Indian Head
· Steph Batalis, PhD, Research Fellow, Georgetown’s Center for Security and Emerging Technology

2024 Topics of Discussion Will Include:
· U.S. Biotechnology Policy and Innovation: Spearheading DOD Biomanufacturing Strategy Development
· Advancing Safe and Effective Biologics: The Role of Regulatory Science in Public Health
· Addressing the Importance of Biodefense and Biosecurity Measures in Ensuring Naval Force Protection
· Creating Next-Generation Technologies by Driving Innovation and Fostering Economic Growth
· Enhancing Real-World Outcomes Through Biotech Research Initiatives at ARPA-H
· Panel Discussion: National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology

DSI is now welcoming Sponsors and Exhibitors for the forum. To learn more please contact Amanda Delgado at adelgado@dsigroup.org or (201) 940-6680
Active military and government and state personnel attend complimentary. Those interested in participating in the Government Biotechnology Innovation Summit can visit Defense Strategies Institute’s website at https://biotech.dsigroup.org/. Anyone interested in learning more or sending questions please contact Jessica Joaquim at jjoaquim@dsigroup.org or (201) 824-0077.

20, Jun 2024
Black Girl Vitamins Celebrates Juneteenth with Another Powerful Collaboration

 

Black Girl Vitamins Celebrates Juneteenth with Another Powerful Collaboration

Chicago, IL, June 20, 2024 —  For the second year in a row, Black Girl Vitamins is excited to continue its empowering collaboration with renowned artist Ana Latese to commemorate Juneteenth. Known for her vibrant and uplifting depictions of Black girls and women, Ana has once again created exclusive designs for limited-edition merchandise, this time featuring a commemorative bag that embodies the essence of “Strong, Confident, Black Women.”

The Black Girl Vitamins x Ana Latese collaboration extends far beyond a celebration of Juneteenth and the beautifully designed bags – it stands as a powerful statement about the importance of representation, self-care, and that healthy Black women must be integrated into the fabric of our daily lives. It seamlessly blends art and wellness, reflecting Black Girl Vitamins’ commitment to celebrating and empowering Black women.

“Juneteenth is a time to honor our history and celebrate our future. Partnering with Ana Latese allows us to do just that through beautiful, empowering art that speaks to our community.” – Jennifer Juma, Black Girl Vitamins

Limited-edition commemorative bags are included for purchases over $60.00 and are available until supplies last.

20, Jun 2024
La Fleur Bouquets Launches World’s First Lifetime Plant Collection

La Fleur Bouquets Launches World's First Lifetime Plant Collection

Los Angeles, CA, June 20, 2024 — La Fleur Bouquets proudly introduces a new pinnacle of sophistication with the launch of La Plante – The Lifetime Plant Collection. This groundbreaking series marks the debut of preserved plants designed to redefine opulence, combining luxury with longevity in unprecedented ways. La Fleur continues to launch sustainable, and eco-friendly products to their garden.

Crafted as a symphony of luxury and sustainability, La Plante Collection features three distinguished varieties: the graceful Osmanthus, the majestic Magnolia, and the ethereal Fern. Each plant is meticulously preserved to retain its beauty indefinitely, without the need for water, embodying their unwavering commitment to excellence.

These botanical treasures are housed in bespoke Italian Arabascato marble vessels, meticulously selected to complement their natural beauty. Adorned with their stinctive gold seal, each vessel stands as a testament to La Fleur Bouquets’ dedication to craftsmanship and luxury.

“The La Plante Collection is more than just preserved plants; it’s a celebration of enduring elegance,” said Hagar Elaziz, Founder at La Fleur Bouquets. “It represents a fusion of timeless beauty and sustainable innovation, offering a luxurious gift for oneself or a loved one.”

Elevate any space with the enchanting allure of La Fleur Bouquets’ La Plante Collection, where luxury transcends boundaries and beauty knows no limits.

20, Jun 2024
AGASKIN Collaborates with Marriott Champs Elysées to Launch Exclusive K-Beauty Masterclasses in Paris

AGASKIN Collaborates with Marriott Champs Elysées to Launch Exclusive K-Beauty Masterclasses in Paris

Paris, France, June 20, 2024 –– AGASKIN is excited to announce a groundbreaking collaboration with Marriott Champs Elysées to introduce exclusive K-beauty Masterclasses in the heart of Paris. This unique partnership aims to bring the latest K-beauty trends and techniques to beauty enthusiasts in one of the world’s most iconic cities.

With over 10 years of expertise in K-beauty and a strong presence in Seoul, AGASKIN has become a trusted authority amongst Korean beauty brands. Now active in Paris, AGASKIN continues to innovate and inspire, sharing the transformative power of Korean beauty rituals with a global audience.

Event Highlights:

● Exclusive Masterclasses: Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in intimate sessions designed to impart the latest K-beauty trends and techniques. Each class will cover essential topics, including skincare routines, makeup application, and the secrets behind the flawless K-beauty look.
● Personalized Experience: With limited seats available, participants will enjoy a highly personalized experience, receiving one-on-one attention from AGASKIN’s experts and tailored advice suited to their unique beauty needs.
● Luxurious Venue: The masterclasses will be hosted at the elegant Marriott Champs ElyséesHotel Paris, providing a luxurious and comfortable setting that complements the sophisticated nature of K-beauty.

“We are thrilled to partner with Marriott Champs Elysées to bring these exclusive K-beauty Masterclasses to Paris,” said AGASKIN Fama Ndiaye, CEO at AGASKIN. “Our mission is to empower individuals through beauty, and this collaboration allows us to share the transformative power of K-beauty with a wider audience and always keep the french consumers updated with the latest trends in Korea.”

Paris Marriott Champs Elysées expressed the enthusiasm about the collaboration, with Marianne Thioly, Director of Sales & Marketing, stating: “We are proud that AGASKIN has chosen the Paris Marriott Champs Elysées to host their masterclasses. We are delighted with this collaboration between our two brands because we share common values, particularly the innovative aspects in the customer experience: AGASKIN in the skincare domain and Marriott Champs-Elysées in the hospitality domain.”

The first masterclass scheduled on June 26, 2024 will feature iconic K-beauty brands such as Medicube, Cosrx, Tirtir and Belief.

20, Jun 2024
AMPP Celebrates International Women in Engineering Day

Houston, TX, June 20, 2024 –On June 23, 2024, the Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP) will celebrate International Women in Engineering Day (INWED), marking an annual global tribute to women in the engineering field.

This year, AMPP is launching a dual social media initiative to celebrate women’s dynamic impact in materials engineering, corrosion control, and protective coatings. The campaign will feature personal insights from AMPP’s women members about their professional journeys and the unique perspectives they bring to their specialties. Concurrently, AMPP will spotlight historical women engineers who have broken barriers and pioneered advancements in materials science, corrosion prevention, and more.

“We honor both the trailblazers of the past and the innovators of today,” said Kristin Leonard, chair of the AMPP Global Center Board of Directors. “By sharing these powerful stories, we aim to illuminate the path for future generations of women engineers and underscore our commitment to narrowing the gender and salary gaps in engineering disciplines.”

Statistics from the Society of Women Engineers show that only 14% of engineers are women, and there is a persistent salary gap and underrepresentation in senior positions.

“Recognizing the invaluable contributions of women in engineering is essential for fostering innovation and inclusive growth,” said AMPP CEO Alan Thomas. “Through initiatives like Women of AMPP and the ongoing support from our EMERG program, we strive to create a supportive environment that empowers women and promotes diversity within the engineering community.”

Established in 1993 and rooted in the legacy of the Women’s Engineering Society founded on June 23, 1919, INWED has been endorsed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as a significant acknowledgment of women’s contributions to engineering post-World War I.

As AMPP celebrates International Women in Engineering Day, the organization invites its members, partners, and the broader community to engage with and share these empowering stories using the hashtag #WomenOfAMPP.

20, Jun 2024
Mashman Consulting Group Announces New Office Location in Simmons Bank Tower

Little Rock, AR, June 20, 2024 –Mashman Consulting Group (MCG) is thrilled to announce the opening of its new office space located at 425 W Capitol Ave, Suite 1526, Little Rock, AR 72201, in Simmons Bank Tower.

A Strategic Move for Growth and Perception

The new office in the heart of downtown Little Rock represents MCG’s dedication to embedding itself within the growing business community of Arkansas’s capital. Situated in the Simmons Bank Tower, one of the city’s most iconic buildings, this location enhances MCG’s professional image and provides an excellent environment for client engagements and business operations.

The Simmons Bank Tower, standing at 547 feet with 40 floors, is the tallest building in Arkansas and a symbol of economic vitality in Little Rock. It houses a range of businesses, from financial institutions to law firms, making it a hub of professional activity. This prime location offers Mashman Consulting Group significant visibility and accessibility, reinforcing its position as a leader in personal branding and individual reputation management.

By choosing Little Rock as its headquarters, MCG aims to support and participate in the city’s economic and social initiatives. The consulting firm plans to engage with local businesses, contribute to community projects, and provide opportunities for a local consultant’s leg.

Changing Perceptions of Little Rock

Isaac Mashman’s vision for MCG includes playing a pivotal role in altering the perception of Little Rock. Traditionally overlooked in favor of larger metropolitan areas and held back by crime, Little Rock has faced its share of negative press, often highlighting challenges rather than the city’s many strengths. However, recent efforts by the Governor and local political leaders have led to significant improvements in the city’s infrastructure, business environment, and overall quality of life. This includes the downtown Master Plan and cuts in income tax.

Here’s what Isaac had to say, “Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders and Mayor Frank Scott Jr. were instrumental in my decision to stay in Arkansas, and let alone launch what will be a multiple 9-figure consulting firm in its lifetime. I see a lot of potential here.” Little Rock in Mashman’s mind is ready to attract businesses and professionals from across the nation and he hopes MCG will mark the start of a wave of growth.

20, Jun 2024
AGS Transact Technologies Limited Announces Fund Raise of Rs. 2,000 Mn; Promoter Group Commits Rs. 1,500 Mn to The Raise

AGS Transact Technologies

Bengaluru,20th June 2024– The Board of Directors of AGS Transact Technologies Limited (BSE: 543451 & NSE: AGSTRA) approved Fundraise by way of preferential warrants to Promoter and Promoter Group along with Non-Promoters for Rs. 79.25 / – each or at a price being not lower than the minimum price determined by the Regulations for Preferential Issue contained in Chapter V of the SEBI ICDR Regulations, whichever is higher, subject to the approval of regulatory/ statutory authorities and the shareholders of the Company. The Company will raise Rs. 2,000 mn via the proposed fund raise plan. The Promoter group will infuse Rs. 1,500 mn while the balance will be infused by other investors.

Commenting on the fundraise plan, Mr. Ravi B. Goyal, Chairman and Managing Director said, “AGS Transact remains at the forefront of various opportunities in the payment solutions space and digital business in India. This fund raise is in alignment with the company’s long-term growth objective to capitalize on this changing landscape. With this, the company is strategically placed to drive growth in the coming years while strengthening its balance sheet.”

20, Jun 2024
Amazon miniTV’s ‘Industry’ Premieres with Stars Aparshakti Khurana, Naveen Kasturia, and Sunny Singh

Amazon miniTV’s 'Industry

Mumbai, 20th June 2024: – Amazon miniTV– Amazon’s free video streaming service recently released its highly anticipated drama series, Industry, which was celebrated with a spectacular screening event held yesterday in Mumbai. The screening was a star-studded affair, with the cast of the show and renowned celebrities from the entertainment industry gracing the event. With a celebration of storytelling, ambition, and the magic of cinema, the screening event was a blend of glamour and insight into the powerful narrative of the series.

The premiere was a starry spectacle, featuring the prominent cast members of the series including Chunky Pandey, Gagan Arora, Asha Negi, and Ankita Goraya. Adding to the glamour were notable celebrities like Aparshakti Khurana, Naveen Kasturia, Sunny Singh, Karan Wahi, Manjot Singh, and Apoorva Arora, lighting up the night with their vibrant presence. The night was filled with laughter, capturing moments, and heartfelt conversations as everyone enjoyed an exclusive preview of the intriguing series, Industry.

The series, Industry pulls back the curtain on Mumbai’s Hindi film industry, chronicling the life of aspiring screenwriter Aayush Verma. With dreams larger than life, Aayush’s journey through friendships, love, professional hurdles, and the delicate balance between success and failure, promises to captivate audiences with its authenticity and emotional depth.

Produced by The Viral Fever, Industry is streaming exclusively for free on Amazon miniTV, which is available within Amazon’s shopping app, on Prime Video, Fire TV, Smart TVs, and Play Store.

20, Jun 2024
Freedom Rice Bran Oil Launches Heartwarming Father’s Day Campaign: Rakhe Dil ka Khyaal

Freedom Rice Bran Oil

Hyderabad: 20th June 2024: Freedom Rice Bran Oil proudly announces its Father’s Day campaign, ‘Rakhe Dil ka Khyaal.’ The campaign is dedicated to celebrating the silent, enduring love and strength that fathers provide. “Rakhe Dil ka Khyaal” encourages families to honor their fathers by focusing on heart health, emphasizing the importance of nurturing and caring for our everyday heroes.

This campaign highlights the special bond between fathers and their children. Freedom Rice Bran Oil aims to strengthen the father-child relationship, creating lasting memories and reinforcing the importance of mutual care and well-being. It’s a time to acknowledge the dedication, sacrifices, and unwavering support fathers provide, and show appreciation by taking care of their heart health.

Mr. P. Chandrashekhara Reddy, Senior Vice-President of Sales & Marketing, Gemini Edibles & Fats India Ltd, said, “At Freedom Healthy Cooking Oils, we constantly explore innovative ways to connect with our customers and engage with them. The ‘Rakhe Dil ka Khyaal’ campaign reflects our commitment to family health and well-being, honouring fathers who are the pillars of strength and support. By choosing Freedom Rice Bran Oil, with over 10,000+ ppm of oryzanol, antioxidants, and vitamins, families can ensure they are preparing meals that are not only delicious but also beneficial for heart health.”

Mr. Chetan Pimpalkhute, GM Marketing, Gemini Edibles & Fats India Ltd, added, “Father’s Day is a time to celebrate and honour the incredible contributions fathers make to our lives. Freedom Rice Bran Oil is not just about cooking; it’s about embracing a healthier lifestyle for the ones we love. By incorporating Freedom Rice Bran Oil into daily meals, families can prepare heart-friendly and flavourful dishes that truly reflect their appreciation for Dad’s unwavering support and care. Through this campaign, we aim to inspire families to show their love and appreciation for their fathers through heart-healthy cooking and meaningful moments. A healthy heart is the best gift one can give.”

Rakhe Dil ka Khyaal.’ is more than a celebration—it’s a movement towards healthier living, honoring fathers with meals that nourish their hearts. This Father’s Day, cherish fathers everywhere through heart-healthy cooking and meaningful moments beyond the dining table.

20, Jun 2024
BLS E-Services Limited to Acquire 55% Stake in Aadifidelis Solutions Pvt. Ltd.

BLS E

Mumbai, 20th June 2024: BLS E-Services Limited (“BLSE”), has entered into a definitive Share Purchase Agreement (SPA), to acquire a 55% controlling interest in Aadifidelis Solutions Pvt. Ltd. and its affiliates (“ASPL”), one of the largest players in India in the distribution and processing of loans for corporates and individuals, for an Enterprise Value of approx. Rs. 190 Crores. BLSE will make an upfront investment of approx. Rs. 71 Crores (Primary and Secondary) with balance consideration being deferred linked to the achievement of milestones in FY2025. The acquisition will be an all-cash deal. The transaction will be completed in Q2 FY 2025.

Operating through a hub-and-spoke model, with a comprehensive Pan-India presence in 17 states and union territories, ASPL’s network of 8,600+ channel partners source loan inquiries, which will align with BLSE’s portfolio of Business Correspondents-led citizen-centric last mile banking services.

ASPL currently facilitates an average monthly loan disbursement of Rs. 1,500+ crores through its extensive network of channel partners and is impanelled with the majority of leading financial institutions, like ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, Bajaj Finance, and TATA Capital, to name a few. As per the unaudited financials for FY2024, ASPL and its affiliates achieved revenue of ~ Rs. 577 crores and the EBITDA stood at ~ Rs. 22 crores.

Lagrange Point Advisors LLP, a Mumbai-based M&A advisory firm, acted as the sole transaction advisor to BLSE for this transaction. Dua Associates acted as legal advisors for the transaction.

“Commenting on this milestone, Mr. Shikhar Aggarwal, Chairman of BLS E-Services Ltd. said: “We are delighted to announce the signing of a definitive agreement with ASPL, a strategic move that will unveil a plethora of cross-selling opportunities while integrating specialized loan processing and distribution services into our portfolio, reinforcing the prominent position we hold in delivering last-mile banking services.

With over 6 lakh individuals frequenting our 1,00,000+ touchpoints daily, we are well-positioned to furnish ASPL with ample references for individuals seeking secured & unsecured loans at the grassroots levels in India corresponding to the location of our touchpoints. ASPL’s esteemed relationships and empanelment with the majority of the financial institutions will further fortify our network of 21,000+ Business Correspondent Centres.

Further, beyond the operational synergies, ASPL’s asset-light, low working capital and commission-based model will positively contribute to BLSE’s profitability, propelling us toward a new level of financial success.

The acquisition is a testament to our strategic initiatives towards diversifying our operations and would augment our business, extend our reach, and further expand our market share.”