Professional Services

Architecture CRM/Customer Service Consulting Government & Policy Human Resources Intellectual Property/Trademark/Patent Law Legal
News Release Digital Asset Direct

K3 Holdings and Alpine LA Properties Providing Immediate Housing for Families Displaced by California Wildfires

K3 Holdings

K3 Holdings, a privately held real estate investment firm with extensive holdings throughout the United States and Alpine LA Properties, a leasing company providing newly remodeled apartments at affordable rates are actively working to support families displaced by the catastrophic California wildfires. By designating units specifically for those who have lost their homes, both companies are demonstrating a deep commitment to immediate relief and long-term recovery. Families are already in the process of relocating into buildings owned and operated by the property management company. With 11 lives tragically lost already, more than 10,000 structures destroyed (5,300 in Palisades and 7,000 in Eaton), damages at more than $100 billion, and residents still under evacuation orders, the scale of this disaster demands unified action. K3 Holdings and Alpine LA Properties have stepped up by offering vacant units to provide temporary housing for affected individuals and families. K3 and Alpine property managers are coordinating with local relief organizations to match available units with those in need, ensuring that victims of the wildfires have a secure place to stay as they begin to rebuild their lives. Families are already moving into K3 and Alpine buildings. To recommend someone who was displaced by the wildfire, or to get in touch with the property managers, please email leasing@alpinelaproperties.com. "These wildfires don’t just burn landscapes—they disrupt lives and tear through the fabric of our communities," said Michael Kadisha, a Principal of K3 Holdings. "The families forced to evacuate and the first responders fighting these fires are our neighbors, friends, and colleagues. Now more than ever, we must come together to support, rebuild, and heal." The efforts to provide temporary housing in K3 Holdings and Alpine LA Properties units are designed to ease the transition for those displaced residents by the wildfires. The property managers are dedicated to ensuring that those impacted can begin rebuilding their lives with dignity and comfort in safe and secure homes. The devastating loss of homes highlights the critical need for safe and affordable housing. Losing a home means losing safety, comfort, and stability—elements vital to personal and community resilience. K3 Holdings and Alpine LA Properties remain dedicated to advancing resilient, affordable housing initiatives that safeguard communities against future challenges. "When disaster strikes, the need for secure and sustainable housing becomes painfully clear," said Nathan Kadisha, a K3 Holdings Principal. "Our companies are committed to supporting solutions that prioritize community well-being and long-term recovery." Grassroots organizations are mobilizing relief efforts across California, and we can all make a meaningful impact. Relief efforts depend heavily on volunteer support. Assistance at evacuation centers, distribution of supplies, and meal preparation are just a few ways to help. Nonprofits are actively providing aid to displaced families. Monetary donations and in-kind support are vital to sustaining these efforts. In response to the ongoing wildfire crisis, K3 Holdings has also made a corporate gift on behalf of its K3 Tenants and Alpine residents to support the heroic efforts of the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD). Recognizing the critical need for additional resources to combat these devastating fires, the company is calling on the community to join in by supporting the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation. The LAFD Foundation plays a vital role in equipping firefighters with life-saving tools and resources that are not funded by the city budget. The foundation is currently seeking monetary donations to provide essential gear, including emergency fire shelters, hydration backpacks, and wildland brush tools—all crucial items that help protect both firefighters and the communities they serve. The entire K3 Holdings and Alpine LA Properties families express their deepest gratitude to the firefighters, volunteers, and everyone lending a hand in this critical time. "The California wildfires are a reminder of life’s fragility and the strength of human connection," Michael Kadisha continued "Let’s stand together, support one another, and work toward a future where safe, affordable housing is a reality for all." About K3 Holdings and Alpine LA Properties K3 Holdings and Alpine LA Properties are committed to creating strong, vibrant communities through thoughtful property management and a focus on fostering neighborly connections. By hosting community events and providing quality living spaces, we strive to make our neighborhoods places where residents feel a sense of pride and belonging. ### For more information or to schedule an interview with a K3 spokesperson, please contact Dan Rene at 202-329-8357 or dan@danrene.com Contact Details K3 Holdings Dan Rene +1 202-329-8357 dan@danrene.com Company Website https://k3holdings.com/

January 11, 2025 09:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

AmeriLife To Acquire Crump Life Insurance Services

Amerilife

AmeriLife Group, LLC (“AmeriLife”), a national organization that develops, markets, and distributes life and health insurance, annuities, and retirement planning solutions, announced today that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Crump Life Insurance Services and Hanleigh Management (collectively “Crump”) from TIH Insurance Holdings, LLC (“TIH”). Per the agreement, terms of the deal were not disclosed. "We are thrilled to welcome Crump into the AmeriLife family," said Scott R. Perry, chairman and CEO of AmeriLife. "Crump is a leading independent distributor of life insurance and this partnership aligns perfectly with our vision to provide enhanced Wealth solutions for our clients and partners. Crump's exceptional team and relentless dedication to customer satisfaction will further develop our capabilities in the marketplace. Together – through our shared culture and values – we will continue to redefine the standards of service and excellence in our industry.” "With the acquisition of Crump, we are continuing to transform how we approach Wealth distribution and deliver on our holistic commitment to agents, advisors, and leading financial professionals everywhere," added Mike Vietri, Chief Distribution Officer for AmeriLife Wealth Group. “Crump's breadth and depth of expertise, especially in the life insurance space, will enable us to deliver more comprehensive and integrated solutions and revolutionize how we help individuals and families protect and grow their wealth – no matter their stage of life.” Crump is one of the largest and most dynamic providers of life insurance and retirement products in the United States. Crump’s expertise spans the institutional/wholesale, IMO, and BGA sectors, and it partners with more than 31,000 financial professionals to deliver a range of holistic solutions including life, annuities, long term care, linked benefit, disability insurance, and other specialty offerings. “We are excited to join forces with AmeriLife,” said Mike Martini, CEO of Crump. “This highly complementary transaction marks a pivotal moment for our company and demonstrates our commitment to advancing our capabilities and services for our clients and partners. We look forward to leveraging AmeriLife's extensive network and deep resources to better serve the needs of our customers and to drive continued growth in the life insurance market.” As part of AmeriLife Wealth Group’s fast-growing and innovative distribution platform, Crump joins a distinguished network of affiliated companies who are working together to transform Wealth distribution and sustain the next generation of firms and their financial professionals. Crump will also gain access to new tools and expanded resources required to hone its already best-in-class capabilities and build upon its more than 100 years of success to deliver better, more secure futures for retirees. Piper Sandler & Co. and Truist Securities are acting as financial advisors and Simpson Thatcher & Bartlett LLP served as legal counsel to Crump and TIH in connection with the transaction, which is expected to close in the first quarter of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions. Kirkland & Ellis served as legal counsel and Paul Weiss served as financing legal counsel to AmeriLife. ### About Crump Life Insurance Services Crump Life Insurance Services is a leading third-party distributor and service provider of insurance and retirement products. Using a holistic approach to insurance planning, Crump distributes a diverse array of insurance products to more than 31,000 financial professionals. With the industry's premier sales and back-office support and technology services, Crump places $13B in annual premiums of life insurance, annuities, long term care, linked benefits, disability, and health products, equaling more than 145,000 insurance policies and $100B in life insurance protection annually. Crump markets under the following brands: Crump, Truist Life Insurance Services, and Tellus. Learn more at Crump.com About TIH Insurance Holdings TIH Insurance Holdings, LLC, headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is a leading Property and Casualty wholesale brokerage and MGA platform. TIH operates over 100 offices with more than 6,500 employees through its specialty wholesale and underwriting insurance businesses. To learn more, visit www.tihinsurance.com. About AmeriLife AmeriLife’s strength is its mission: to provide insurance and retirement solutions to help people live longer, healthier lives. AmeriLife develops, markets and distributes life and health insurance, annuities, and retirement planning solutions to enhance the lives of pre-retirees and retirees across the United States. For more than 50 years, AmeriLife has partnered with top insurance carriers to provide value and quality to customers served through a national distribution network of over 300,000 agents and financial professionals and more than 160 marketing organizations and insurance agencies. For more information, visit AmeriLife.com, and follow AmeriLife on Facebook and LinkedIn. Contact Details Media - AmeriLife Jeff Maldonado media@amerilife.com Media - Crump Life Insurance Services Jessica Marshall jmarshall@crcgroup.com Partnership Inquiries Alex Hyer corporatedevelopment@amerilife.com Company Website https://amerilife.com

January 06, 2025 10:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

House Passes $196 Billion Social Security Bill: Will Repealing Pension Reductions Shorten The Program’s Lifespan?

Benzinga

By Kaili Killpack, Benzinga On Nov. 12, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Social Security Fairness Act, a bipartisan bill set in motion to eliminate two long-standing provisions that currently reduce Social Security benefits for public sector employees. The legislation was first introduced in 2023 and will now head to the Senate, where it has strong bipartisan support. If passed, it is estimated to cost $196 billion over the next decade. Critics worry that enacting this bill could further exacerbate Social Security’s funding challenges. Don’t Miss: The number of ‘401(k)’ Millionaires is up 43% from last year — Here are three ways to join the club. Can you guess how many Americans successfully retire with $1,000,000 saved? The percentage may shock you. What Does the Social Security Fairness Act Do? The bill addresses two key provisions – added to the Social Security Act in 1983 – that affect public sector workers: The Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP): This rule reduces Social Security benefits for individuals who receive pensions from jobs where they didn’t pay Social Security taxes, like certain state and local government positions. According to the Congressional Research Service, about 2.1 million people are affected by this provision. The Government Pension Offset (GPO): The GPO reduces Social Security benefits for spouses, widows and widowers who receive government pensions. About 745,000 individuals currently receive reduced benefits under this provision. Those in support of repealing these rules argue that they unfairly penalize retired teachers, police officers, firefighters and other public servants, many of whom heavily rely on their Social Security and pension benefits for their income. Supporters Praise the Bill Proponents of the bill see it as a victory for equity. Representative Garret Graves (R-La.), a coleader of the bill, stated on the House floor, “This has been 40 years of treating people differently, discriminating against a certain set of workers.” The National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare called the House vote a "bipartisan victory" for public employees and their families. See Also: ‘Scrolling to UBI’: Deloitte’s #1 fastest-growing software company allows users to earn money on their phones – invest today with $1,000 for just $0.25/share Concerns About Social Security’s Future While the bill aims to address disparities among a demographic affected for over 40 years, critics are concerned that enacting it could further strain Social Security’s already depleting finances. The Congressional Budget Office estimates the bill would add $196 billion to deficits over the next 10 years and bring the trust fund depletion date forward by six months. Social Security funds are expected to run out at their current rate in 2033, meaning that beneficiaries would receive about 79% of their benefits. Some lawmakers, like Rep. John Larson (D-Conn.), argue that, while reform is necessary, it needs to be handled differently. “I could not vote for the bills on the floor tonight because they are not paid for and therefore put Americans’ hard-earned benefits at risk,” Larson said. “It would hurt most deeply the five million of our fellow Americans who receive below poverty checks and almost half of all Social Security recipients who rely on their earned benefits for the majority of their income.” Trending: 'Which Bucket Do I Draw From First?' Suze Orman Explains To 67-Year-Old The Best Order For Tapping Into Her Retirement Accounts Instead, Larson proposed an alternative proposal: the Social Security 2100 Act. This would also repeal the WEP and GPO and include additional measures to increase revenues, like raising payroll taxes for higher earners. Policy experts also express their concerns. Romina Boccia, director of budget and entitlement policy at the Cato Institute, criticized the bill, stating the policy is wrong and needs broader changes. “We should reform Social Security so that it provides basic income security to the most vulnerable Americans in old age without adding to the debt or tax burden that younger workers face,” Boccia said. What Happens Next? The Social Security Fairness Act has already garnered enough Senate cosponsors to pass if brought to the floor for a vote. If signed into law, repealing the WEP and GPO would apply to benefits starting in 2024, significantly changing the benefits for the affected retirees and leaving unresolved questions about the program’s long-term solvency. Read Next: The global games market is projected to generate $272B by the end of the year — for $0.55/share, this VC-backed startup with a 7M+ userbase gives investors easy access to this asset market. Deloitte’s fastest-growing software company partners with Amazon, Walmart & Target – You can still get 4,000 of its pre-IPO shares for just $1,000 Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. Benzinga may earn a commission from the partners associated with this article. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

January 06, 2025 08:50 AM Eastern Standard Time

Property Management Leaders Share Inspirational Holiday Message to K3 Tenants

K3 Holdings

K3 Holdings, a privately held real estate investment firm with extensive holdings throughout the United States and Alpine LA Properties, a leasing company providing newly remodeled apartments at affordable rates shared an inspirational holiday message to K3 Tenants and Alpine residents to encourage more community building over the holiday season. “As the holidays unfold with the celebrations of Christmas, Hanukkah, and other meaningful observances, K3 Holdings and Alpine LA Properties extend warm wishes to all, regardless of religious affiliation,” stated Michael Kadisha a K3 Principal. “This season is a time to reflect on what truly matters family, friendships, and the profound joy of spreading kindness.” “The holidays bring a unique opportunity to connect with loved ones, forge new friendships, and share moments that spark smiles and happiness. It’s undeniable that the warmth of the season is contagious, and its spirit can brighten lives across our communities,” Michael Kadisha continued. “As we embrace this festive time, it is also essential to remember those less fortunate. Recently, we observed National Homeless Persons’ Remembrance Day, a somber reminder of the challenges many are facing,” Nathan Kadisha said. “Additionally, we celebrated Veterans Day just a few weeks ago highlighting the sacrifices of those who have served, including the unfortunate reality that some veterans experience homelessness.” The property management team also shared a call to action to K3 Tenants and Alpine residents. “At K3 Holdings and Alpine LA Properties, we believe in the power of community and the responsibility to uplift one another. We encourage all our tenants and neighbors to join us in supporting those in need. Whether through charitable donations, volunteering at food banks, or sharing your unique talents, everyone has something valuable to offer,” Nathan Kadisha continued. The entire team at K3 Holdings and Alpine LA Properties are proud of the efforts K3 tenants make in creating stronger, safer, and more compassionate communities. Their dedication and generosity inspire us all to strive for a brighter future. Beyond their words, K3 Holdings and Alpine LA Properties have demonstrated a steadfast commitment to community building through tangible actions. By investing in property upgrades, hosting resident-focused events, and collaborating with local organizations, these property management leaders are creating environments where neighbors can connect and thrive. From neighborhood tree planting initiatives to art mural projects, the team’s efforts aim to foster not just places to live but places to call home. “At the heart of our mission is a belief that safe and vibrant communities are built on the foundation of strong relationships and shared purpose,” said Michael Kadisha. “Our investment in our properties is also an investment in the people who live there, ensuring they have a sense of security and belonging.” Additionally, the property managers actively engage with local charities and non-profits, furthering their impact on those in need – especially to combat the scourge of homelessness. By providing resources and support, and affordable housing options, they aim to uplift not only their tenants but also the broader community, setting an example of leadership and compassion in action. “This holiday season, let us come together to foster unity and goodwill. At K3 Holdings and Alpine LA Properties, our team remains committed to supporting our residents and communities every step of the way,” Michael Kadisha said. “From all of us, we wish you a joyous and meaningful holiday season filled with love, peace, and community spirit.” About K3 Holdings and Alpine LA Properties K3 Holdings and Alpine LA Properties are committed to creating strong, vibrant communities through thoughtful property management and a focus on fostering neighborly connections. By hosting community events and providing quality living spaces, we strive to make our neighborhoods places where residents feel a sense of pride and belonging. For more information or to schedule an interview with a K3 spokesperson, please contact Dan Rene at 202-329-8357 or dan@danrene.com Contact Details K3 Holdings Dan Rene +1 202-329-8357 dan@danrene.com Company Website https://k3holdings.com/

December 24, 2024 12:34 PM Eastern Standard Time

Market Alert: Actelis Networks Receives Buy Rating and $5 Price Target from Analyst Theodore R. O’Neill

Global Markets News

Actelis Networks Inc. (NASDAQ:ASNS), a leader in hybrid fiber-copper and cyber-hardened networking solutions, has received a vote of confidence from analyst Theodore R. O’Neill of Litchfield Hills Research. O’Neill has initiated coverage with a "Buy" rating and a price target of $5, citing Actelis’ innovative technology, growth trajectory, and potentially undervalued shares. A Leader in Cyber-Hardened IoT Networking Actelis (NASDAQ: ASNS) is a pioneering provider of rapid-deployment networking solutions for IoT and mission-critical broadband applications. The company's core technology enables fiber-grade performance over hybrid fiber-copper networks, a significant advantage for sectors needing cost-effective solutions without extensive infrastructure overhauls. The report also highlights Actelis’ "Cyber Aware Networking" initiative, which integrates AI-driven cybersecurity into its networking solutions. The report underscores Actelis' "well-protected technology moat," supported by 31 granted U.S. patents and proprietary trade secrets, which give the company a unique edge in a competitive market. Its Triple Shield Protection technology ensures secure, high-speed connectivity across diverse media types, such as fiber, coax, and copper, enabling seamless integration even in challenging environments. The analyst highlights the strength of Actelis' product portfolio, including the MetaLIGHT and GigaLine series, which address critical needs in intelligent traffic systems (ITS), military, utilities, and smart city projects. The report also notes the recent addition of the GL900 series, which offers ultra-low-power solutions tailored for multi-dwelling units (MDUs). Strong Growth Strategy The report points to Actelis’ strategic shift in 2023, where the company redirected its focus from legacy telecom customers to industrial and government clients. This shift has already shown results, with triple-digit year-over-year revenue growth reported in Q3 2024 and expectations of continued double-digit growth into 2025. Additionally, the report emphasizes Actelis’ global reach, serving over 300 customers across 30 countries, and its blue-chip client list that includes government agencies, transportation authorities, and defense organizations. Notably, recent deployments, such as modernizing Washington, D.C.'s traffic network, highlight the reliability and versatility of its solutions. O’Neill’s analysis suggests that Actelis shares, which closed at $1.03 on December 20, could be significantly undervalued. The report projects a $5 price target within 12 months based on discounted future earnings, using an 8% discount rate and assuming sustainable growth driven by Actelis’ innovative products and market position. The report further highlights Actelis’ steep discount to peers, trading at just 0.53x 2025 market cap/sales compared to a peer group average of 4.3x. If the stock were to trade at the peer group average, its valuation could exceed $8. The report also addresses several risks, including industry competition, regulatory challenges, and Actelis’ history of operating losses. However, it notes that financial risks appear manageable, with sustainable breakeven projected by late 2025 or early 2026 at quarterly revenue levels of approximately $3.4 million. Conclusion The initiation of coverage by Litchfield Hills Research marks an intruging endorsement for Actelis Networks. The report highlights Actelis’ robust technology portfolio, proven market presence, and significant growth potential as reasons for optimism. Actelis’ innovative approach to leveraging hybrid fiber-copper networks and its focus on cybersecurity position it well to potentially capitalize on the growing demand for modernized critical infrastructure. Based on the report, As urbanization and IoT adoption accelerate, Actelis is could to capture a larger share of this multi-billion-dollar market. * * * Important disclaimers and disclosures: This article includes speculative forward looking statements. Readers are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, and that actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. Companies in emerging industries such as Actelis (the “company”) are volatile and risky and readers are advised to seek out professional advice in the relevant fields from licensed professionals. This article was issued by Global Markets Media, a commercial digital brand operated for IR purposes who's operators are compensated by actelis for coverage and distribution services. The above content is for informational purposes only and it is not intended to serve as financial or investment advice and this constitutes an advertisement for the purposes of section 17(b) of the securities act. This above content has not been reviewed or approved by the company. Please review the full disclaimers and disclosures detailing conflicts of interest [ https://justpaste.it/ecto7/pdf ]. The report mentioned was issued by a licensed analyst who is subject to his own conflicts of interest and disclainers/disclosures and readers are advised to refer to the full report. Contact Details News Coverage ronald@futuremarketsresearch.com

December 23, 2024 08:10 AM Eastern Standard Time

Market Alert: Actelis Networks Introduces MetaShield, Pioneering AI Solutions for Critical Infrastructure Protection (NASDAQ: ASNS)

Global Markets News

Actelis Networks (NASDAQ: ASNS) has just announced the launch of MetaShield, a groundbreaking AI-based cybersecurity solution poised to redefine security protocols for IoT and critical infrastructure networks. This pivotal is representative exemplifies Actelis' visionary approach and marks a significant leap forward in its mission to enhance networks across the globe, setting a new standard in creating robust and secure IoT networks and achieving critical infrastrucutre modernization. Addressing Growing Threats to Critical Infrastructure The introduction of MetaShield is particularly significant as it directly responds to the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber threats targeting critical infrastructure. With cyberattacks on essential systems reportedly surging by 30% in 2023, organizations across sectors are under immense pressure to bolster their defenses. MetaShield’s advanced capabilities, including real-time anomaly detection and AI-driven threat mitigation, empower Actelis to offer a proactive solution that not only secures networks but also safeguards vital operations. This focus on protecting critical infrastructure aligns Actelis with the urgent needs of governments and industries, positioning it as a trusted partner in enhancing national and operational security. Expanding Opportunities for Upselling MetaShield is not just a standalone product; it represents a strategic opportunity for Actelis to deepen its relationships with existing clients and explore upselling potential. As organizations adopt MetaShield, Actelis can leverage this integration to provide additional services and upgrades, enhancing customer loyalty and increasing revenue per client. This ability to deliver comprehensive, layered security solutions creates a compelling value proposition, ensuring that Actelis remains indispensable to its clients' operational needs. A Lean and Growing Software Business Model The launch of MetaShield signifies a critical step towards a growing Software as a Service (SaaS) model that can drive recurring revenue and solidify Actelis’ position within the cybersecurity sector. By establishing a lean, software-focused business model, Actelis is positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for subscription-based cybersecurity solutions. This shift may not only only enhances the financial position in the long term, but also aligns with broader industry trends where clients prefer flexible, scalable solutions that adapt to their evolving security needs. Moreover, the ongoing software revenue stream may further allow Actelis to invest in continuous innovation and development, ensuring that its solutions remain at the forefront of cybersecurity technology. As the market for cybersecurity solutions continues to expand, Actelis' commitment to a growing software business model will be essential for long-term success and competitiveness. A New Era for Actelis Networks In summary, the announcement of MetaShield marks a revolutionary step for Actelis Networks, showcasing its commitment to innovation and leadership in the cybersecurity landscape. By addressing the urgent needs for robust security in critical infrastructure, creating upselling opportunities, and transitioning to a lean software business model, Actelis is exceptionally well-positioned to meet the growing demand for integrated security solutions. The launch of MetaShield could not only elevate Actelis' market position but also reinforce the resilience of critical infrastructure in an interconnected world. This launch is not just a new product; it may very well be the start of a transformative chapter for Actelis Networks as it aims to shape the future of cybersecurity. Read Actelis Networks' Latest Announcements * * * * This news alert may include speculative forward looking statements. Readers are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, and that actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. Companies in emerging industries are volatile and risky and readers are advised to seek out preffesional advice in the relevent feilds from licensed profesionals. This news alert was issued by Global Markets Media, a commercial digital brand operated for IR purposes who's operators are compensated by actelis for coverage and distribution services. The above content is for informational purposes only and it is not intended to serve as financial or investment advice and this constitutes an advertisement for the purposes of section 17(b) of the securities act. Please review the full disclaimers and disclosures detailing conflicts of interest [https://justpaste.it/ecto7/pdf]. Contact Details Global Markets News Desk ronald@futuremarketsresearch.com

December 20, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

For the Second Year in a Row, Shareholder Calls for Microsoft Shareholders to Reject Reid Hoffman

NLPC

The annual meeting for Microsoft Corporation is on Tuesday, and for the second year in a row, an investor is calling upon shareholders to oppose the re-election of tech entrepreneur and political agitator Reid Hoffman to the board of directors. Earlier this year, National Legal and Policy Center sent a letter to Microsoft Corporation calling upon Hoffman to resign from the board, and if he refused, then for his fellow directors to call a special meeting to vote on his removal. The shareholder group wrote that he should not continue to serve on Microsoft’s board, after Hoffman wished for the death of former President Donald Trump just days before an attempted assassination on the now President-elect. The letter, sent in July, followed NLPC’s plea last year in advance of the tech company’s 2023 annual meeting, which asked voting shareholders to oppose Hoffman’s re-election to a seat on the board. NLPC argued then (and argues now) that the former member of the “Paypal mafia” harbors an unhealthy obsession with the personal and political destruction of President-elect Trump, and that he displays an intolerance and temperament that is unbefitting for a director of a prestigious multinational corporation like Microsoft. NLPC also called into question Hoffman’s extremely poor judgment in his visit to Little Saint James island with multi-millionaire financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, as well as his regular associations with him, many years after the pedophile was convicted for the abuse of underage girls. For these same reasons, NLPC demanded that Hoffman be removed as a member of the Defense Department’s Innovation Advisory Board “Under any other circumstances, Reid Hoffman’s caustic rhetoric, his reckless conduct, and his preoccupation with the destruction of a political foe, would disqualify him from the privilege of serving on a corporate board,” said Paul Chesser, director of the Corporate Integrity Project for NLPC. “Corporate America seems to be coming to their senses finally on issues like DEI and the transgender delusion, so maybe shareholders will finally reject an extremist like Mr. Hoffman, because they should.” NLPC released a satirical video in October that identified several of Hoffman’s sins and shortcomings that make him unqualified for Microsoft’s board of directors. ### For more information or to schedule an interview with Paul Chesser, contact Dan Rene at 202-329-8357 or drene@nlpc.org. Please visit http://www.nlpc.org. Founded in 1991, the National Legal and Policy Center promotes ethics in public life through research, investigation, education and legal action. Contact Details National Legal and Policy Center Dan Rene +1 202-329-8357 drene@nlpc.org Company Website http://www.nlpc.org

December 09, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

Media and Democracy Project Urges FCC to Establish a 'Bright-Line Test' with Hearing on FOX Affiliate’s Broadcast License

Media and Democracy Project

Today, the Media and Democracy Project (MAD), joined by a bipartisan coalition of prominent former FCC officials, legal experts, and media advocates, filed further comments with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) urging the agency to designate the WTXF-TV broadcast license application for a hearing. In its filing, the coalition asserts that this matter is not controversial nor political and that action by the Commission is a straightforward application of its statutory obligations. “Our petition is not about speech or political slant—it’s about the deliberate business decision by the Murdochs and Fox to lie to the American people about the 2020 election to protect the company’s profits,” said Brian Hansbury, Co-Founder of the Media and Democracy Project. “That decision cannot be squared with the character requirements of the Communications Act, and the FCC has the opportunity to prove that its public interest policy matters.” The filing argues that this case is “easily distinguishable from routine complaints by politicians about the political slant of a particular channel or classic journalistic prerogatives.” The group calls for the Commission to establish a “bright-line test to provide clear guidance on when a hearing is required.” The filing continues, “[p]roviding this guidance also would be a crowning addition to this Commission’s legacy.” “Commissioner Carr’s recent threat against the broadcast industry (an echo of Trump’s threat against ABC and CBS – against whom there has been no judicial finding) illustrates the importance of this commission adopting a more clear bright line test that invokes the character provision of the communications act only after there has been a judicial finding,” said former Murdoch lobbyist Preston Padden. “If the FCC fails to act, it risks setting a dangerous precedent that undermines its own authority and the public’s trust in broadcast media.” In urging Commission action, the group also called on the FCC to pay particular attention to three passages from earlier informal comments: In an earlier filing from Former FCC Chairman Alfred Sikes, the radio station owner recounted preparing his first application for a station license. It required him to commit to operate in the ‘public interest.’ He recalled wondering whether that language was “just some bureaucratic construct or a legally enforceable requirement.” Later, after serving as Chairman of the Commission, he notes that “the answer is still elusive.” In an informal objection, Former FCC Commissioner Ervin S. Duggan and former Editor of The Weekly Standard Bill Kristol, cited Judge Davis’s findings in US Dominion, Inc. v. Fox News Network, emphasizing that Fox’s behavior “is not consistent with the FCC’s character requirements for broadcast licensees who are supposed to operate their stations in the public interest first and foremost.” The pair continued, “given that the Murdoch/Fox lies contributed to the January 6 riot in the Capitol and duped millions of Americans into believing that the election was stolen, their actions shocked the conscience.” In informal comments from preeminent defender of media First Amendment rights, Floyd Abrams, he recounted his long history of serving as counsel to media organizations whose First Amendment rights were threatened. Notwithstanding that history, Abrams states, “but knowing and repeated distortion of information about a forthcoming election is precisely what a broadcaster may not do, and that the Commission may consider in determining whether license renewal is appropriate.” The joint informal comments were filed by Brian Hansbury, MAD’s Co-founder; Alfred Sikes, former Republican Chairman of the FCC, Ervin S. Duggan, former Democratic FCC Commissioner and former PBS President, William Kristol, longtime Editor of The Weekly Standard, William Reyner, longtime lead regulatory and commercial outside counsel To Murdoch/Fox, and Preston Padden, former executive of Fox Broadcasting Company and former lead lobbyist for Rupert Murdoch/News Corporation/Fox. A copy of the informal comments is available here. A link to a timeline of MAD’s petition is available here. The Media and Democracy Project: MAD is a non-partisan, all-volunteer, grassroots organization focused on strengthening a free and independent media in the public interest. MAD aims to improve our national discourse so that American voters can engage in informed decision-making. As part of that goal, MAD has an interest in the responsibility of journalists and media to report fully, accurately, and fairly on the electoral process and the outcome of elections. Additional information is available at www.MediaAndDemocracyProject.Org. Contact Details Aaron Alberico +1 202-744-0786 aalberico@raynoravenue.com Company Website https://www.mediaanddemocracyproject.org/

November 19, 2024 08:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

The Surety & Fidelity Association of America Congratulates Newly Elected Officials and Stands Ready to Work with Members of Both Parties to Advance Key Industry Priorities

SFAA

Following last week’s election, The Surety & Fidelity Association of America (SFAA) extends congratulations to all newly elected officials and reaffirms its commitment to working across the aisle to advance the industry's interests. As a leading voice for the surety and fidelity industry, SFAA is dedicated to collaborating with policymakers on solutions that support economic growth, enhance public and private sector resilience, and protect taxpayers. “Now more than ever, we believe in the importance of bipartisan cooperation to advance our industry's top priorities before Congress, the Administration, and the States,” said SFAA President & CEO Ryan Work. “We look forward to working closely with new and returning leaders at every level of government to promote policies that empower businesses, safeguard consumers, protect workers, and strengthen our economy.” The Surety & Fidelity Association of America (SFAA) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan trade association representing all segments of the surety and fidelity industry. Based in Washington, D.C., SFAA works to promote the value of surety and fidelity bonding by proactively advocating on behalf of its members and stakeholders. The association’s more than 425 member companies write 98 percent of surety and fidelity bonds in the U.S. For more information visit www.surety.org. Contact Details Peter Roth +1 703-401-0676 proth@surety.org Company Website https://surety.org/

November 15, 2024 10:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

1 2 3 4 5 ... 111

Back