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NSI Insurance Group Acquires Fourth Agency in 15 Months

NSI Insurance Group

NSI Insurance Group, a leading independent insurance agency specializing in risk management, employee benefits, and insurance services for businesses and individuals, recently made its third and fourth acquisitions in the past 15 months, with the purchase White Cloud Insurance and Express Insurance, both in Miami. NSI Insurance Group now has four offices throughout South Florida. NSI Insurance Group, founded in 1958, ranks among the largest privately owned firms in Florida and operates within five business segments including personal and commercial insurance, employee benefits, and specialty programs. The company has achieved robust growth, driven by a combination of expansion in existing verticals and strategic acquisitions. The company has been continuously recognized as a “Best Practices” agency in a survey of the largest insurance agencies in the United States. “We have continued our long-standing pattern of consistent yet conservative growth through growing our existing client base and making strategic acquisitions of top-quality insurance companies throughout South Florida,” said NSI Insurance Group CEO Oscar Seikaly. “We believe our strategy brings exceptional new opportunities for our clients and our employees as we continue to develop our firm.” Last year, NSI Insurance Group acquired Fort Lauderdale, Florida-based Pallant Insurance, one of the largest LGTBQ-owned and managed agencies in the state. The Pallant brand continues under the same leadership as a subsidiary of NSI Insurance Group. Last summer, the company acquired Ensurgroup, based in South Miami, while the Express Insurance and White Cloud acquisitions closed in the past few months. “As the South Florida population grows and density increases, we must become more geographically diverse and reinforce our back-office operations,” said Seikaly. “The acquisitions enable us to move quickly and improve our leverage with major carriers, which is critical during a tight market.” According to Seikaly, the acquired agencies were all excellent cultural fits, and each firm brings expertise that benefits the entire organization. Executive leaders of each firm have been retained and continue to work with the company. Contact Details David PR Group John P. David +1 305-274-3903 john@davidpr.com

September 15, 2021 10:59 AM Eastern Daylight Time

ThriveFantasy Closes $3M Funding Round as Platform Continues to Experience Sizable Growth

ThriveFantasy

ThriveFantasy, the leading player prop daily fantasy sports and esports platform, announced today the closure of its latest funding round, raising $3 million (USD). The round will be used to acquire strategic talent, solidify numerous sports/esports partnerships and continue its aggressive marketing programs to exponentially increase strong user growth. ThriveFantasy was created to give everyday fans a better chance at winning by challenging them to pick simple player props for sports or esports contests such as, over/under of yards, catches, touchdowns, assists or kills and more. The platform’s ease of use and focus on both sports and esports contests continues to attract many different types of users and led to significant growth over the past 12 months. “We are excited to see how ThriveFantasy has become the prop game of choice for the exploding number of fantasy players”, said Adam Weinstein, CEO of ThriveFantasy. “Our investors truly understand this unique value proposition and enthusiastically helped us complete this round very quickly to help supercharge our ongoing growth.” The round was led by Cardinal Sports Capital Inc. (formerly, Shore Capital Sports & Entertainment LLC), an advisory and investment firm with offices in Toronto and New York. As part of its strategic investment, Cardinal Sports Capital Inc. will take an active role assisting ThriveFantasy with business development, strategic partnerships as well as financial advisory services. Scott Secord, Managing Partner, will also join the ThriveFantasy Board of Directors. Mr. Secord is the former President/CEO of Gaming Nation Inc., a publicly traded company on the TSXV, which was acquired in 2018 by a private equity firm. Prior to Gaming Nation, Mr. Secord held the position of President/CEO of Pointstreak Sports Technologies Inc. from 2009 until 2015. “ThriveFantasy is exciting because it is a unique fantasy platform that gives both esports and traditional sports fans a fun and easy playing experience,” said Secord. “The opportunities in the sports and gaming industry seem limitless, but we understand that one of the strengths of this market lies in the quality and experience of the platforms. Thrive’s is one of the best we’ve seen. Our investment in Thrive shows our commitment to continually improving how these games are offered to the growing number of fantasy fans.” Due to ThriveFantasy’s popularity, current and former professional athletes participated in this investment round. Notable investors include: New York Angels members, Yolo Investments, Reflect Ventures and Stage 1 Ventures. For more information, please visit www.Thrivefantasy.com About ThriveFantasy ThriveFantasy is a Daily Fantasy Sports and Esports App for Player Props. Thrive eliminates the countless hours of research users have to spend, by only focusing on the top-tier athletes that have the biggest impact on the game. Follow ThriveFantasy on Instagram (@ThriveFantasy), Twitter (@ThriveFantasy) and Facebook (ThriveFantasy). Contact Details Michael Adorno madorno@hotpaperlantern.com Company Website https://www.thrivefantasy.com/

September 15, 2021 09:01 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Knowledgehook enters Mexico to level up math attainment

Knowledgehook

Knowledgehook, the world’s most comprehensive mathematics learning platform, has launched in Mexico as the country fights back from the devastating impact of COVID-19. It is now available to schools across the country for children in Year 3 to Year 9 classes, through RadIx Education, a change consultancy working with local governments and schools across Mexico. Knowledgehook’s proprietary technology harnesses the power of data to track where students are on their math journey. Their programmes connect a child’s at-home learning with in-school education, providing real-time insights to teachers on learning gaps. The platform empowers teachers to develop an understanding of the maths concepts related to their students’ challenges, enabling them to adjust instruction and monitor student progress. The launch of Knowledgehook in Mexico comes at a time when Mexican teachers and officials are working hard to improve math outcomes for their students. Math achievement is at a low ebb with 35% of 15-year-olds not achieving the minimum level of proficiency in math, according to the recent International Student Assessment (PISA) 1. Indeed, Mexican 15-year-olds rank last among students in the 36 OECD member countries in mathematics, reading and science, according to a recent International Student Assessment (PISA) survey. Moreover, UNICEF reported that, on average, schools in Latin America were closed longer than any in any other region as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Qamar Qureshi, President of Knowledgehook, commented:“This is an amazing opportunity for everyone involved in education in Mexico to turn the tide and accelerate change in math outcomes for young people. Having the right, personalised guidance for teachers makes all the difference. Every student deserves to have a teacher who has access to the best pedagogical tools, and parents who have insights into their learning. Our platform is not a game, it pulls together a 360 view on a child’s learning journey, enabling people around them to improve the child’s math experience and outcomes”. Knowledgehook’s AI-enabled platform has grown to support schools across the US, Mexico, and the UK. It is designed to scale across multiple countries and languages, developing teacher capacity while engaging students and providing actionable insights for parents. Over the years, Knowledgehook’s research-based solution has garnered industry-leading partnerships and investments from the most recognised global education bodies, notably from the University College of London (UCL), the global leader in education research. In launching Knowledgehook across Mexico, Erik Ramírez Ruiz, founder of Radix Education, commented: “Despite the historical lows in math attainment levels for Mexican children, we know that the gap between the top and bottom performers in math and science has shrunk over time. It’s now time to accelerate this change and move the needle further. Knowledgehook has proven across the world it makes a difference. We have already seen this first hand during the testing phase and are optimistic the technology will help teachers and improve the life chances of many young people ''. Knowledgehook actively collaborates with governments around the world while also working directly with schools and their suppliers, to offer curriculum-aligned solutions. The company currently empowers teachers in more than 100,000 schools. In 2021, it is anticipated the solution will reach 50,000,000 students globally. Launching Mexico is the first time Knowledge will be available in Spanish. The solution is also available in French. We have received growing interest for our technology and expertise to be applied to other subjects and we look forward to expanding our solution to empower more educators and support the learning of students to become the problem-solvers of tomorrow,” Qamar Qureshi added. Ends 1 Based on the 2018 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) survey. It is conducted once every three years and is the most extensive and widely accepted measure of academic proficiency among lower secondary school students around the world. About Knowledgehook Knowledgehook, a leading educational technology company, empowers hundreds of thousands of teachers and parents to collaboratively support the mathematics learning journey of millions of students worldwide. Winner of Google’s Game Changer Award and named Top Disruptor by BNN, its platform analyses student understanding through engaging assessments, providing real-time personalised solutions to close learning gaps between classroom teaching and at-home learning. Designed by leading numeracy and research experts, Knowledgehook’s Instructional Guidance System is known for reinventing how online technology supports education and educators, while inspiring the problem solvers of tomorrow. Knowledgehook is backed by UCL’s VC fund Discentia Capital, Mesoamerica’s Alexandria Corp., Nelson Education and John Abele’s North Point Ventures. Contact Details Knowledgehook Bilal Mahmood +44 7714 007257 b.mahmood@stockwoodstrategy.com

September 15, 2021 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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ThriveFantasy Partners with NFL’s Los Angeles Chargers for 2021 Season to be Daily Fantasy Sports Partner

ThriveFantasy

ThriveFantasy, the leading player prop daily fantasy sports, announced today it has signed on as a proud daily Fantasy Sports partner of the Los Angeles Chargers. The partnership provides Chargers fans with opportunities to participate in Thrive’s customized daily fantasy contests throughout the season. Of equal importance, ThriveFantasy will donate $25,000 to the Chargers Impact Fund to help those within the greater Los Angeles community who are most in need. “The Chargers are a great organization in so many ways,” says Adam Weinstein, founder and CEO of ThriveFantasy. “This partnership allows us to both give back to those who need it most, at a time when so many are hurting, as well as offer creative ways to help the Chargers engage their fanbase.” ThriveFantasy was created to give everyday fans a better chance at winning by challenging them to pick Chargers-only contests within its app to offer Chargers fans the chance to win tickets to Chargers Games at SoFi Stadium. Fans can visit their mobile app store to download the ThriveFantasy app today. “We’re excited to welcome ThriveFantasy into the Chargers family, especially as fantasy sports continues to grow in popularity. We also thank them for this wonderful donation to the Chargers Impact Fund which will truly help so many in the Los Angeles Community,” said A.G. Spanos, Chargers President of Business Operations and the Chargers Impact Fund. “Thrive will give our fans a unique and engaging way to interact with their favorite team and, in this case, win cash prizes and tickets to Chargers Games at SoFi Stadium.” In the coming months, Chargers fans can download the ThriveFantasy app and keep an eye out for: Match first time deposits up to $100 Custom Chargers-only contests throughout the 2021-2022 season About ThriveFantasy ThriveFantasy is a Daily Fantasy Sports and Esports App for Player Props. Thrive eliminates the countless hours of research users have to spend, by only focusing on the top-tier athletes that have the biggest impact on the game. Follow ThriveFantasy on Instagram (@ThriveFantasy), Twitter (@ThriveFantasy) and Facebook (ThriveFantasy). Download the app today via the App Store and Google Play. App Store https://apps.apple.com/us/app/thrivefantasy/id1240062484 Google Play https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.appster.p2f&hl=en_US About the Chargers Impact Fund The Chargers Impact Fund is committed to helping families thrive in and around Southern California. The Fund focuses on four pillars in the community – youth empowerment, supporting families, animal welfare and emergency response – to help families thrive in their community. Over the years, the Fund has awarded more than $12 million in direct community assistance, including more than $6 million to public schools for badly needed physical fitness, nutrition and athletic programs and equipment. Today, in partnership with Chargers fans, volunteers and donors, the Chargers Impact Fund continues to honor Alex and Faye Spanos’ legacy by helping to build strong support structures for youth, families, and their communities across Southern California. For more information on the Chargers Impact Fund, please visit www.chargers.com/community/impact-fund/. Contact Details Hot Paper Lantern for ThriveFantasy Michael Adorno madorno@hotpaperlantern.com Company Website https://www.thrivefantasy.com/

September 09, 2021 09:01 AM Eastern Daylight Time

SIGMA Announces 90mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary I series lens

SIGMA CORPORATION OF AMERICA

SIGMA Corporation of America, in conjunction with SIGMA Corporation (CEO: Kazuto Yamaki), announces the release of the SIGMA 90mm F2.8 DG DN | Contempary “I series” lens in the US market. The new premium compact prime lens for full-frame mirrorless camera systems will be available for $639.00 through authorized US retailers in late September 2021. Exclusively for mirrorless cameras | Compatible with full-frame cameras Capture every inspiring moment. I series | Premium Compact Primes for mirrorless users New standards of optical performance for the Contemporary line Exceptional I series build quality with a compact form-factor Supplied accessories: Magnetic metal lens cap (LCF55-01M), Hood (LH576-02), Front Cap (LCF-55III), Rear Cap (LCRII) Available mount: L-Mount, Sony E-mount * The appearance and specifications of the product are subject to change. * This product is developed, manufactured and sold based on the specifications of E-mount which was disclosed by Sony Corporation under the license agreement with Sony Corporation. * L-Mount is a registered trademark of Leica Camera AG. #SIGMA #SIGMA90mmF28Contemporary #SIGMAContemporary #SIGMAContemporaryPrime #SIGMADGDN #Iseries #SIGMAIseries Introducing SIGMA's all-new, mid-telephoto I series prime for mirrorless systems. This compact 90mm F2.8 optic is versatile, well-built and offers stunning optical performance, making it perfect for portraits, close-ups, weddings and events. A brand new 90mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary premium compact prime has been added to SIGMA's growing I series range. It joins four existing I series primes as well as the all-new 24mm F2, offering superb optical performance, a bright F2.8 aperture, an all-metal build and a manual aperture ring. Designed especially for mirrorless systems it feels well-balanced on modern full-frame bodies, and boasts exceptional resolving power that can keep up with the latest ultra-high-resolution cameras. With its versatile mid-telephoto focal length, the lens is the longest I series lens yet, but still remains remarkably compact and light so is ideal for day-to-day use. It is fully-optimized for mirrorless systems with ultra-fast and accurate AF performance, and it boasts outstanding optical capabilities. The rich, smooth bokeh makes for attractive backgrounds, which is perfect for portraits, and the minimum focusing distance of 50cm allows photographers to get closer to their subject. With its versatile mid-telephoto focal length, the lens is the longest I series lens yet, but still remains remarkably compact and light so is ideal for day-to-day use. It is fully-optimized for mirrorless systems with ultra-fast and accurate AF performance, and it boasts outstanding optical capabilities. The rich, smooth bokeh makes for attractive backgrounds, which is perfect for portraits, and the minimum focusing distance of 50cm allows photographers to get closer to their subject. This high-quality, everyday lens is able to bring scenes to life with its beautiful rendering and ultra-sharp optics, all in a portable, robust and tactile lens body. [Key features] 1. I series | Premium Compact Primes for mirrorless users The SIGMA I series features full-frame-compatible lenses that offer mirrorless users a new and better alternative, both in the experience of shooting with the lens and in the impressive results it is able to achieve. One of the key advantages of mirrorless cameras is their smaller form-factor, and this new 90mm optic is designed to be perfectly matched to these more compact systems without sacrificing performance. This combination of superb optical quality with exceptional portability, not previously possible with DSLR systems, will bring new opportunities to this and future generations of photographers. Simultaneously, SIGMA is aware that, in this day and age when we have such huge diversity when it comes to what we use to photograph, as represented by smartphones, people look for something more than a mere act of "taking pictures" when they choose to own a camera and lenses. SIGMA's excellence in development and processing technologies has been built up since it was founded in 1961, and has become further sophisticated with the introduction of the SIGMA Global Vision in 2012. With this as a base SIGMA has given careful thought to how photographers use and enjoy their lenses, including optical design, advanced functionality, build quality and the experience of picking up and using the lens, and with all of this carefully considered the I series was born. 2. New standards of optical performance for the Contemporary line The SIGMA 90mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary boasts exceptional optical performance with a ultra-high resolving power to match the latest high-resolution mirrorless cameras. The lens is built using the very latest optical technology, and includes five SLD glass elements. This helps to reduce axial chromatic aberration that cannot be corrected in-camera, allowing the lens to achieve high resolution and clear image quality with no color bleeding. A high-precision glass molded aspherical lens provides both high resolution and beautiful bokeh. Photographers can enjoy shooting with soft, large bokeh without coloration and this is something that only a full-frame lens is able to deliver. The lens also utilizes the camera's optical correction functionality, which is an advantage of mirrorless systems, SIGMA's optical designers were therefore able to concentrate on correcting aberrations that can only be corrected by the optical design, thereby improving rendering performance and reducing the size and weight of the lens. With a minimum focusing distance of 50cm and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:5, close-up macro-style photography is possible. The lens highlights the subject, allowing photographers to focus in on fine details or create more abstract compositions. The AF drive system incorporates a quiet, high-speed stepping motor, making it suitable for still images as well as video recording. 3. Exceptional I series build quality with a compact form-factor All I series lenses have an all-metal construction. The precision-cut aluminum parts not only give the barrel a sleek, stylish finish, but provide superb durability that improves the quality of the entire product. Metal materials are also used in internal structures that slide with the operation ring for added robustness. These high-precision components crafted with SIGMA's cutting-edge metalworking technology are also used in SIGMA's cine lens line-up for professional cinematographers and provide a tactile, ergonomic feel that make the lens a pleasure to use. The 90mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary shares the same φ64mm maximum diameter and 55mm filter size as the 24mm F3.5 DG DN | Contemporary and the 45mm F2.8 DG DN | Contemporary, making them a natural trio, especially for filmmakers who use filters more regularly. With a combined weight of only 735 grams / 25.9 oz.*, these three lenses (wide-angle, standard, mid-telephoto) can be used in tandem as part of a high-spec and compact camera system that covers a wide range of shooting situations. * The figures are for L-Mount. [Additional features] Lens construction: 11 elements in 10 groups, with 5 SLD and 1 aspherical lens elements Inner focus system Compatible with high-speed autofocus Stepping motor Compatible with lens aberration correction * Function available on supported cameras only. Available corrections may vary depending on the camera model. Support DMF and AF+MF Super Multi-Layer Coating Aperture ring Focus Mode switch Round-type lens hood (LH576-02) Magnetic metal lens cap (LCF55-01M) Mount with dust and splash resistant structure Compatible with SIGMA USB DOCK UD-11 (sold separately / for L-Mount only) Designed to minimize flare and ghosting Every single lens undergoes SIGMA's proprietary MTF measuring system 9-blade rounded diaphragm High-precision, durable brass bayonet mount “Made in Japan” craftsmanship To learn more about SIGMA's craftsmanship, please visit SIGMA website at: https://www.sigma-global.com/en/about/craftsmanship/ [Key specifications] The figures below are for L-Mount: Lens construction: 10 groups, 11 elements (5 SLD and 1 aspherical lens) | Angle of view: 27.0° | Number of diaphragm blades: 9 (rounded diaphragm) | Minimum aperture: F22 | Minimum focusing distance: 50cm / 19.7 in. | Maximum magnification ratio: 1:5 | Filter size: φ55mm | Dimensions (Maximum Diameter x Length): φ64mm x 59.7mm / φ2.5 in. x 2.4 in. | Weight: 295g / 10.4 oz. [Barcode] L-Mount: 0085126 261696 Sony E-mount: 0085126 261658 [Accessories: Supplied] Name of product / barcode Magnetic metal lens cap FRONT CAP LCF55-01M: 0085126 938680 FRONT CAP LCFIII 55mm: 0085126 930066 LENS HOOD LH576-02: 0085126 939526 REAR CAP LCR II (L-Mount): 0085126 937256 REAR CAP LCR II (Sony E-mount): 0085126 929879 [Accessories: Optional] Name of product / barcode SIGMA USB DOCK UD-11 for L-Mount: 0085126 878696 SIGMA WR PROTECTOR 55mm: 0085126 930912 SIGMA PROTECTOR 55mm: 0085126 931049 SIGMA WR UV FILTER 55mm: 0085126 930653 SIGMA WR CIRCULAR PL FILTER 55mm: 0085126 930783 Magnetic metal lens cap holder SIGMA LENS CAP HOLDER CH-11: 0085126 938666 [Contact] For further information, please contact your local authorized SIGMA Service Station listed at the link below: https://www.sigma-global.com/en/world-network/ [Information] SIGMA Corporation | https://www.sigma-global.com/en/ Product information | https://www.sigma-global.com/en/lenses/c021_90_28/ Contact Details SIGMA CORPORATION OF AMERICA Jack Howard +1 631-585-1144 SIGMA.PR@sigmaphoto.com Company Website https://www.sigma-global.com/en/

September 09, 2021 08:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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SIGMA Announces 24mm F2 DG DN | Contemporary I series lens

SIGMA CORPORATION OF AMERICA

SIGMA Corporation of America, in conjunction with SIGMA Corporation (CEO: Kazuto Yamaki), announces the release of the SIGMA 24mm F2 DG DN | Contempary “I series” lens in the US market. The new premium compact prime lens for full-frame mirrorless camera systems will be available for $639.00 through authorized US retailers in late September 2021. See the bigger picture. I series | Premium Compact Primes for mirrorless users New standards of optical performance for the Contemporary line Exceptional I series build quality with a compact form-factor Available mount: L-Mount, Sony E-mount * The appearance and specifications of the product are subject to change. * This product is developed, manufactured and sold based on the specifications of E-mount which was disclosed by Sony Corporation under the license agreement with Sony Corporation. * L-Mount is a registered trademark of Leica Camera AG. #SIGMA #SIGMA24mmF2Contemporary #SIGMAContemporary #SIGMAContemporaryPrime #SIGMADGDN #Iseries #SIGMAIseries The all-new 24mm F2 DG DN | Contemporary delivers exceptional edge-to-edge rendering power in an ultra-compact, all-metal body. This impressive, wide-angle, I series prime is now available for L-Mount and Sony E-mount systems. The 24mm F2 DG DN | Contemporary premium compact prime is the latest prime lens to be added to SIGMA's growing I series range. It joins four existing I series lenses as well as the new 90mm F2.8, offering superb optical performance, a bright F2 aperture, an all-metal build and a manual aperture ring. Designed from the ground up for mirrorless systems it feels perfectly-balanced on modern full-frame bodies, and boasts exceptional resolving power that can keep up with the latest ultra-high-resolution cameras. The lens' advanced optical design produces sharp, high-contrast results from the center of the frame to the far corners, and together with its F2 aperture and wide angle-of-view it's an excellent choice for night sky photography, events and interiors. Owing to its compact size the lens can be carried around effortlessly, which makes it perfect for day-to-day use. The high quality, all-metal construction, which is found on all of SIGMA's I series models, makes the experience of owning and operating this lens extremely satisfying. This new full-frame 24mm F2 prime is designed for photographers who need a sharp, fast, robust, wide-angle optic that will not weigh them down. It is available for L-Mount and Sony E-mount systems. [Key features] 1. I series | Premium Compact Primes for mirrorless users The SIGMA I series features full-frame-compatible lenses that offer mirrorless users a new and better alternative, both in the experience of shooting with the lens and in the impressive results it is able to achieve. One of the key advantages of mirrorless cameras is their smaller form-factor, and this new 24mm optic is designed to be perfectly matched to these more compact systems without sacrificing performance. This combination of superb optical quality with exceptional portability, not previously possible with DSLR systems, will bring new opportunities to this and future generations of photographers. Simultaneously, SIGMA is aware that, in this day and age when we have such huge diversity when it comes to what we use to photograph, as represented by smartphones, people look for something more than a mere act of "taking pictures" when they choose to own a camera and lenses. SIGMA's excellence in development and processing technologies has been built up since it was founded in 1961, and has become further sophisticated with the introduction of the SIGMA Global Vision in 2012. With this as a base SIGMA has given careful thought to how photographers use and enjoy their lenses, including optical design, advanced functionality, build quality and the experience of picking up and using the lens, and with all of this carefully considered the I series was born. 24mm, 35mm and 65mm - three lenses with F2 brightness in the lineup 2. New standards of optical performance for the Contemporary line The SIGMA 24mm F2 DG DN | Contemporary, like the SIGMA 35mm F2 DG DN | Contemporary and the SIGMA 65mm F2 DG DN | Contemporary, combines the highest level of optical performance even at its maximum aperture of F2 and a well-balanced body. The lens uses two SLD glass elements and one FLD glass element to correct axial chromatic aberration, which is a particular concern with bright lenses. It also incorporates two high-precision glass-molded aspherical elements, made possible by the processing technology of SIGMA's sole production facility in Aizu. This has enabled the total number of lens elements to be kept down and the size and weight of the lens to be reduced, while providing excellent correction of various aberrations. In anticipation of wide-angle lens applications, SIGMA's optical designers have ensured the lens resolution is extremely high, and is uniform from the center to the periphery of the image. Sagittal coma flare is also well suppressed, giving the lens a high degree of rendering power that makes it ideal for night sky photography. The AF drive system incorporates a quiet, high-speed stepping motor. This allows photographers to capture every detail of the spacious 24mm scene with light AF. 3. Exceptional I series build quality with a compact form-factor All I series lenses have an all-metal construction. The precision-cut aluminum parts not only give the barrel a sleek, stylish finish, but provide superb durability that improves the quality of the entire product. Metal materials are also used in internal structures that slide with the operation ring for added robustness. These high-precision components crafted with SIGMA's cutting-edge metalworking technology are also used in SIGMA's cine lens line-up for professional cinematographers and provide a tactile, ergonomic feel that make the lens a pleasure to use. The cover ring between the focus ring and the aperture ring has hairline processing that is also used for the rear cylinder of the Art line. This covering functions as a finger hold when attaching or detaching the lens. [Additional features] Lens construction: 13 elements in 11 groups, with 1 FLD, 2 SLD and 2 aspherical lens elements Inner focus system Compatible with high-speed autofocus Stepping motor Compatible with lens aberration correction * Function available on supported cameras only. Available corrections may vary depending on the camera model. Support DMF and AF+MF Super Multi-Layer Coating Aperture ring Focus Mode switch Petal-type lens hood (LH656-02) Magnetic metal lens cap (LCF62-01M) Mount with dust and splash resistant structure Compatible with SIGMA USB DOCK UD-11 (sold separately / for L-Mount only) Designed to minimize flare and ghosting Every single lens undergoes SIGMA's proprietary MTF measuring system 9-blade rounded diaphragm High-precision, durable brass bayonet mount “Made in Japan” craftsmanship To learn more about SIGMA's craftsmanship, please visit SIGMA website at: https://www.sigma-global.com/en/about/craftsmanship/ [Key specifications] The figures below are for L-Mount: Lens construction: 11 groups, 13 elements (1 FLD, 2 SLD, and 2 aspherical lenses) | Angle of view: 84.1° | Number of diaphragm blades: 9 (rounded diaphragm) | Minimum aperture: F22 | Minimum focusing distance: 24.5cm / 9.7 in. | Maximum magnification ratio: 1:6.7 | Filter size: φ62mm | Dimensions (Max. Diameter x Length): φ70mmx72mm / φ 2.8 in. x 2.8 in. | Weight: 365g / 12.9 oz. [Barcode] L-Mount: 0085126 403690 Sony E-mount: 0085126 403652 [Accessories: Supplied] Name of product / barcode: Magnetic metal lens cap SIGMA FRONT CAP LCF62-01M: 0085126 938659 FRONT CAP LCFIII 62mm: 0085126 929817 PETAL-TYPE LENS HOOD LH656-02: 0085126 939533 REAR CAP LCR II (L-Mount): 0085126 937256 REAR CAP LCR II (Sony E-mount): 0085126 929879 [Accessories: Optional] Name of product / barcode: SIGMA USB DOCK UD-11 for L-Mount: 0085126 878696 SIGMA WR PROTECTOR 62mm: 0085126 930936 SIGMA PROTECTOR 62mm: 0085126 931063 SIGMA WR UV FILTER 62mm: 0085126 930677 SIGMA WR CIRCULAR PL FILTER 62mm: 0085126 930806 Magnetic metal lens cap holder SIGMA LENS CAP HOLDER CH-11: 0085126 938666 [Contact] For further information, please contact your local authorized SIGMA Service Station listed at the link below: https://www.sigma-global.com/en/world-network/ [Information] SIGMA Corporation | https://www.sigma-global.com/en/ Product information | https://www.sigma-global.com/en/lenses/c021_24_2/ Contact Details SIGMA Corporation Jack Howard ext. 1015 +1 631-585-1144 SIGMA.PR@sigmaphoto.com Company Website https://www.sigma-global.com/en/

September 09, 2021 08:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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The Way We Travel Now: Airbnb Looking Ahead, Looking Back

YourUpdateTV

As summer winds down and the seasons begin to change, now is the time to look back at how Americans spent their summer traveling and what they are looking forward to experiencing in the fall. Recently, Communications Leads for North America at Airbnb, Liz DeBold Fusco, teamed with YourUpdateTV on a satellite media tour to share the most recent travel trends. A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://youtu.be/aBehaUcamIE Not surprisingly, outdoor escapes with the family were the top summer travel trend, and as we come to the end of the summer, longer trips and reunions have become a go to. One of the biggest trends was the great escape to rural, with destinations near national and state parks among the top places to stay. Few weeks ago, Airbnb reached their biggest night ever in the US with more than 4 million guests using the platform. This has created a lot of opportunities for the Airbnb host community. This past summer, US Hosts on Airbnb collectively earned more than $1.3 billion – with some hosting while they were away to pay for their vacation to some offering one-of-a-kind unique stays, like treehouses and yurts. With the remote work trend continuing into fall, so does the increase in trips extending beyond just a weekend. Longer weekend trips with families lasting three to four days are up 70 percent, with weekday stays increasing from 63 to 65 percent. Guests’ rising and diversified interest in mid-sized cities extends beyond the weekend and is focused on fall scenery. Searches for stays in large and mid-sized cities make up about a third of searches each for fall, compared to more than half for stays in just large cities in fall 2019. Big events are also coming back, and more guests are eager to head back to stands and seats once again. In fact, a number of those top trending destinations for Labor Day Weekend and beyond are large and mid-sized cities. This is due to welcome-back iconic competitions and major music festivals, like the Made in America Festival in Philadelphia and Astroworld in Houston. You can always go to airbnb.com to find places to stay, Online Experiences to try. Or, if you are looking to share your space this fall or ahead of a big event, you can become a host at Airbnb.com/host. About Liz DeBold Fusco: Liz DeBold Fusco is a Communications Leads for North America for Airbnb. Prior to that, she was a Vice President at SKDKnickerbocker, a national public affairs firm, where she provided strategic communications guidance to organizations ranging from the NAACP and Demos to The Rockefeller Foundation and AT&T. Liz has also worked for Mayor's Fund to Advance New York City and New York City First Lady Chirlane McCray as well as the New York State Attorney General. About YourUpdateTV: YourUpdateTV is a social media video portal for organizations to share their content. It includes separate channels for Health and Wellness, Lifestyle, Media and Entertainment, Money and Finance, Social Responsibility, Sports and Technology. Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

September 08, 2021 07:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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REALTORS®’ Guidance on Current Renovation Trends That Boost Home Value

YourUpdateTV

Any homeowner or hopeful homebuyer knows it can be confusing to determine which renovations are worth their time and money and which ones are best left undone. How do you boost the return on investment of a house? How much will it cost? What should you focus on? The complexities and uncertainties surrounding these questions highlight the need to work alongside a local real estate expert. Americans spend $400 billion annually remodeling their homes, but many find the idea of taking on a remodeling project themselves too overwhelming. In fact, 35% of U.S. homeowners would rather move to another home than remodel their current home. How do real estate agents help home buyers/sellers? Community – Know local, county, and state property taxes; decipher public property information. Financial – Coordinate with lenders; research mortgage rates and terms; schedule appraisals and inspections Legal – Manage attorney reviews; navigate all require stated and federal forms; handle closing documents Expert real estate agents save home buyers time and help take stress out of the process. In fact, 91% of home buyers say they would engage their real estate agent again or recommend them to others. To learn more about REALTORS® and to find a real estate agent – www.realtor.com For tips and ideas on home renovations - https://www.houselogic.com/ About YourUpdateTV: YourUpdateTV is a social media video portal for organizations to share their content. It includes separate channels for Health and Wellness, Lifestyle, Media and Entertainment, Money and Finance, Social Responsibility, Sports and Technology Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

September 08, 2021 04:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time

FantasyStand, A Unique ‘Beat The Threshold-Style’ Fantasy Game, Officially Launches

FantasyStand

FantasyStand, a new desktop beat-the-threshold style fantasy game, has officially launched for the 2021 NFL season. Users can immediately create an account and start playing football contests at https://fantasystand.com/. FantasyStand blends an against-the-house and beat-the-threshold style game with the traditional elements of building a team through a salary cap. At the beginning of each contest Fantasy Stand will let users know what the point threshold is for that week. If the users’ team beats the point threshold set by FantasyStand, they win. “Traditional fantasy sports can be extremely frustrating. A user could form an amazing line-up, outscore thousands of users and still not win. Every week the goalposts are hidden and that was a problem I wanted to solve,” said Joe Brown, founder of FantasyStand. “We feel that our against-the-house and beat-the-threshold model provides a level of transparency in an industry where users are building fantasy teams blindly, not knowing what they need to achieve to win. By giving our users the point threshold ahead of our contests, they can confidently build their strongest team to win and ultimately have a great time doing so.” Fantasy Stand features include: Multiple contests will be offered weekly with buy-ins starting at $5 and going up to $500. Users play against the house, not each other. If you beat the given threshold, you win. (ex. Bet $100, Win $100) Additional prizes may include 10% of the total contest pot for the highest scoring user in that contest. Currently the NFL is the only sport available on the platform. FantasyStand has plans to launch basketball contests for the upcoming 2021-2022 NBA season. FantasyStand is available for desktop and mobile use via the website. An app is in development for launch in 2022 to enhance the mobile experience. Following the launch of the platform, FantasyStand will be raising a Friends and Family round of funding. The round will be used to invest in marketing, technology development and additional state licensing. FantasyStand currently operates in 25 states and will continue to add new states to its roster in 2022. For more information to create a FantasyStand account please visit: https://fantasystand.com/ ABOUT FANTASYSTAND Founded in 2020 by entrepreneur and founder Joe Brown, FantasyStand is bringing fun and transparency back to fantasy sports. FantasyStand blends an against-the-house and beat-the-threshold style game with the traditional elements of building a team through a salary cap. By blending the best of both worlds, FantasyStand is providing users a new, fun and entertaining fantasy experience. For more information to create a FantasyStand account please visit: https://fantasystand.com/ Contact Details Hot Paper Lantern Michael Adorno +1 212-931-6143 madorno@hotpaperlantern.com Company Website https://fantasystand.com/

September 08, 2021 10:01 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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REALTORS®’ Guidance on Current Renovation Trends That Boost Home Value

FantasyStand, A Unique ‘Beat The Threshold-Style’ Fantasy Game, Officially Launches