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The best generative AI solutions of 2024

AIport

January 25, 2024 — Ever since ChatGPT burst onto the scene in the fall of 2022, generative AI (GenAI) solutions have continued to disrupt industries with their surprising and never-before-seen features. Many of the generative AI solutions we hear about today are based on large language models (LLM), which allow them to successfully communicate with end users. Every such model has to be pre-trained on vast amounts of data and then fine-tuned using a variety of different methods. As we’re approaching the end of January, let’s look at the list of the most noteworthy of these models and explore the generative AI solutions they power. Compiled by the AIport newsletter team, this list is by no means exhaustive, but it is a review of what we believe are the LLM-based generative AI solutions and tools that are likely to make headlines this year. GPT (OpenAI and Microsoft) Expectedly, the first LLM on our list with some of the highest expectations this year is at the core of ChatGPT from OpenAI. GPT wasn’t the first LLM out there (there had been others like BERT ), but it was certainly the first one that resulted in a market-ready GenAI product. The original GPT model (Generative Pretrained Transformers) had 170 billion parameters, while the latest version, GPT-4, boasts over 1.75 trillion. The model’s applications are far and wide, being the basis not only for ChatGPT, but also Microsoft’s Bing Chat, which is now part of the Copilot infrastructure. While ChatGPT remains arguably the most impressive text-producing GenAI tool, Bing Chat (unlike ChatGPT) has internet access, making it ideal for web browsing. In addition, the same core GPT model is being utilized by other entities — from Panasonic Connect in Japan, OCBC Bank’s ChatGPT in Singapore, and KPMG’s KaiChat in Germany to the UK government’s upcoming GOV.UK chat. Notably, GPT is also a vital part of OpenAI’s DALL-E suite — a solution that generates images based on descriptions from text. PaLM and Gemini (Google) The next one on our list is Google’s PaLM (Pathways Language Model). The model, boasting 540 billion parameters, was first successfully tested in the spring of 2022. A year later, PaLM 2 was announced and subsequently integrated into Bard — Google’s GenAI chatbot — becoming available to test users around the world. Bard is considered among the finest solutions for productivity, having internet access like Bing Chat, but being less about navigating the web and more about answering burning questions. Bard was seriously bolstered at the end of last year with Google’s highly anticipated launch of the multimodal LLM, Gemini, which had been trained on images and audio/video files, not just text. The jury is still out on how far this update will take Bard, but the expectations are very high indeed. LLaMA (Meta, Microsoft, and Hugging Face) LLaMA (Large Language Model Meta AI) from Meta was released in February last year. However, the 65-billion-parameter model was leaked online as a downloadable torrent only a week later. While the model did not lead to any ChatGPT-like products at Meta, another AI company — Hugging Face — picked it up and released Hugging Chat. Offering internet access, this GenAI solution has been praised as “the first open source alternative to ChatGPT” with a snarky sense of humor. Not to be outdone, Meta partnered with Microsoft to produce LLaMA 2 in July of last year. Following that, the company announced a beta release of Meta AI at the end of September — a GenAI chatbot, currently available in the US, that can “provide real-time information and generate photorealistic images” from text prompts. This solution is expected to reach Meta users across the rest of the globe later in the year. Claude (Anthropic) Our next LLM is made by Anthropic, and it’s named Claude. Founded in 2021, the company along with its language model may be a less familiar name to most non-geeks. But this is likely to change in 2024. That’s the case not only because the latest version of the namesake GenAI chatbot released last year can now process long PDF files of up to 75,000 words, taking moments to summarize entire books. But also because this has already caught the attention of both Google and Amazon who are keen to invest $2 and $4 billion respectively. While Claude doesn’t offer internet access, its processing power, namely input character memory, outpowers every competitor by a wide margin, including ChatGPT. And the company is said to be working on yet more handy features as we speak. HyperCLOVA X (Naver) HyperCLOVA X is both the LLM and the namesake GenAI chatbot released by the South Korean search engine giant, Naver, last August. Boasting over 200 billion parameters, the LLM is being used mainly for AI-assisted web browsing, much like Bing Chat. While HyperCLOVA X doesn’t speak English, the chatbot’s proficiency in Korean is impressive, having learned 6,500 more Korean words than ChatGPT. In addition to answering user queries, HyperCLOVA X has been designed to offer AI assistance to businesses across numerous sectors — from finance to gaming. Naver is also presently working to make HyperCLOVA X multimodal, following in the footsteps of Google’s Gemini, so another big international headline is likely on the way. Pangu (Huawei) Last spring, Huawei, one of the global tech leaders, unveiled Pangu — an LLM with 1.085 trillion parameters in over 40 natural and programming languages. This LLM now powers the Chinese company’s GenAI assistant called Celia, which resides within Huawei’s HarmonyOS 4 operating system. Supposedly, Celia has already outperformed both Siri and Google Assistant as a phone-based virtual assistant in terms of prompt execution accuracy, such as finding specific photos and documents stored on a device. And as more Huawei smartphones are being churned out, Celia is expected to reach more global users this year with further refinements to the Pangu model. In addition, Pangu is available through Huawei Cloud for commercial use. According to a statement from the company’s leadership, the newest Pangu 3.0 utilizes hierarchical architecture, allowing it to be quickly fine-tuned for a wide range of downstream applications (including Huawei’s autonomous vehicle solutions ), which we’ll surely see more of in 2024. MiLM-6B (Xiaomi) Next up is another Chinese company, Xiaomi — one of the largest phone manufacturers in the world. The company made an entry into the LLM race last summer with its MiLM-6B, a lightweight model created for mobile devices. Boasting 6.4 billion parameters, MiLM-6B has reportedly outperformed rivals in its category and achieved notable scores from evaluation platforms like C-Eval and CMMLU. Xiaomi’s leadership has been vocal for some time about integrating LLMs into its smartphones. It appears that the company’s virtual assistant, Xiao AI, has now finally become a fully fledged GenAI chatbot, generating over 11 words per second. By this metric, despite operating locally on the phone, Xiao AI has matched the performance of some LLMs running on cloud computing services. It’ll be interesting to see whether Xiao AI gets assimilated into the company’s other products, as the rumors suggest, including the recently announced Xiaomi SU7, an autonomous-enabled electric sedan. YandexGPT (Yandex) The final entry on our list is an LLM named YandexGPT from the Russian search engine Yandex. The namesake GenAI solution with 100 billion parameters was beta-released in May last year. The more recent release of YandexGPT2 has demonstrated a 65% improvement in response quality, with a 1.5-fold increase in training data. Interestingly, this GenAI solution was tested and scored enough points to enter a Russian university. YandexGPT was also integrated into Yandex’s flagship virtual assistant named Alice, as well as the company’s smart speakers. Furthermore, the LLM has allowed the company’s e-shoppers to view summarized customer reviews in one place. With YandexGPT at the core, the company now also offers visual GenAI solutions, YandexART and Shedevrum, that can generate images from text, much like Open AI’s DALL-E. Currently, the LLM is also being merged with Yandex Search to offer the end user something similar to Bing Chat and HyperCLOVA X. It’s likely that we’ll see a new announcement pertaining to this development later in the year. New kids on the block Apart from the above entries on our list, several brand new LLMs along with their GenAI solutions are expected to arrive any day from other big players. Among them are Samsung from South Korea, Tencent from China, as well as Amazon and Apple. In fact, Apple already has an internal AI chatbot for employees, but its much-talked-about AppleGPT based on the company’s LLM, Ajax, is said to be around the corner. Amazon began to offer a service for building AI chatbots called Lex a while ago, but more notably, the company recently announced its upcoming GenAI solution tailored for commercial use. Japan doesn’t intend to be left behind either — at least three major LLM initiatives are currently being played out. Among them is a joint project between Fujitsu, RIKEN, Tokyo Tech, and Tohoku University who are developing a series of LLMs using one of the world’s most powerful supercomputers, Fugaku. In addition, both NTT and SoftBank are reportedly in the final stages of developing their “homegrown” LLMs. While much remains unclear and covered in mist (or is it gray goo 😉), one thing is certain — 2024 is going to be the most AI-intense year we have seen yet! If you enjoyed this listicle, visit AIport for more exclusive insights into the latest tech trends, with a focus on the global ML landscape. All trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners. Contact Details NettResults PR Nick Leighton +1 949-478-5880 nick.leighton@nettresultsllc.com Company Website https://aiport.substack.com/

January 25, 2024 09:53 AM Pacific Standard Time

Longing for a tropical getaway? Travel This Winter and Spring to America’s Caribbean Paradise, The United States Virgin Islands

YourUpdateTV

If you are longing for a tropical getaway, the U.S. Virgin Islands is home to some of the world's most stunning beaches and luxurious resorts. Recently, the U.S. Virgin Islands Commissioner of Tourism, Joseph Boschulte conducted a satellite media tour to share tips on how to best experience the U.S. Virgin Islands. A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://youtu.be/K3EZnYGhDX4 About 40 miles east of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands comprise a United States territory located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea. The three main islands are St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas, where the capital of Charlotte Amalie is located. Perfect for leisure or business travel, the U.S. Virgin Islands features breathtaking, world-renowned beaches, an international marine industry, European architecture, and a burgeoning restaurant industry. No passports are required from U.S. citizens traveling from the U.S. mainland or Puerto Rico. U.S. Virgin Islands Marks Impressive Year-End Achievements and Sets Ambitious Goals For 2024 The U.S. Virgin Islands celebrated the end of 2023 with remarkable achievements and a vision for an even brighter future in 2024. Under the leadership of Joseph Boschulte, Commissioner of the Department of Tourism, the territory has made significant strides in several key areas. In a year-over-year comparison, the U.S. Virgin Islands has continued to see robust revenue from the shared economy industry, reaching an impressive $343.4 million in 2023, a slight reduction from the record-setting figure of $360.53 million in the previous year. The hotel occupancy rate stands at a commendable 61.8% Hotel bookings within the territory also outpace the regional average daily rate (ADR) with a rate of $463.23, compared to $318.81 regionally. Additionally, the territory’s Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR) continues to soar above regional standards. The U.S. Virgin Islands played a prominent role in the Caribbean's double-digit growth in tourism, with international arrivals projected to witness a remarkable 39% increase above 2019 levels in the fourth quarter of 2023. Also, extended stay visitors have seen a significant 25% rise. While 2022 presented some challenges due to cross-industry constraints, including pilot and airplane shortages, the end-of-2023 projections for 2024 remain positive. Seat capacity has increased from the continental U.S. to 23% in St. Croix and 21% in St. Thomas, largely due to the strategy of maintaining strong relations with major carriers. The Department of Tourism has expanded its strategic marketing efforts leading the way for the region into sports marketing garnering partnerships with renowned sports teams and entities, including the Boston Red Sox, New York Jets, Chicago Cubs, and Klutch Sports Group. Additionally, in the sports space the department has established ambassadorships with athletes who have familial ties to the territory including WNBA standout Aliyah Boston, Brooklyn Nets player Nic Claxton, Professional Golfer Alex Swain, and collegiate basketball standout Mervin James at Rider University. Looking ahead to 2024, the U.S. Virgin Islands will continue to strengthen its presence in the sports and entertainment arenas, as well as continue to build out cultural correlation with the Caribbean diaspora. The past year also marked successful elevation of the territory’s three Carnival celebrations featuring more revelers on each island and expansion of the Village Nights that spotlighted local talent including Pressure, Adam O, Star Martin and Karnage, international and Caribbean performers Davido, Machel Montano, Kes, Shenseea Koffee, Dexta Daps, Alison Hinds, Patrice Roberts and more. Carnival’s success has opened the territory to opportunities for cultural exchanges with other islands in the region and African countries. For the coming year, the U.S. Virgin Islands will increase concentrate on: · Airlift: Engage in ongoing conversations with airline executives to increase airlift from the U.S. mainland for winter 2024-25. Restoration of international negotiations with airlines in Denmark, Italy, and Canada is a priority. Our focus is on adding flights to St. Croix from the United States, Canada, and Europe. · Cruise: The partnership with the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) will help us to increase cruise calls, create new experiences, collaborate with the local private sector, and generate employment opportunities. Cruise passenger projections indicate a 13% rise for 2024, with nearly 200,000 new passengers expected. · Marine: Strengthen partnerships with marine stakeholders, expand marine experiences, and attract businesses to set up headquarters in the USVI. Collaboration with the Economic Development Authority (EDA) on marine initiatives and working with U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Department of Homeland Security to support increased marine development are key goals. We are excited to launch the Virgin Islands Boating Expo (VIBE) in 2024. · Film: The USVI aims to attract film production with its stunning landscapes and unique locations. For more information about the U.S. Virgin Islands and its offerings, please visit https://www.visitusvi.com/. BIO: JOSEPH BOSCHULTE Joseph Boschulte is the Commissioner for the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism. Commissioner Boschulte brings over 30 years of experience in business, finance, and government to the tourism department. The Commissioner has held high-level positions in transportation, utilities, telecommunications, finance, government development and investment banking with a proven track record of improving organizational performance and growth. Boschulte formerly served as President and CEO of The West Indian Company Limited (WICO), Chief Financial Officer of both the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority, the Government of the Virgin Islands Employees’ Retirement System, and chaired the VI Public Services Commission. Additionally, Boschulte serves as the former Vice President of Institutional Advancement at the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI), Executive Director for UVI’s Reichhold Center for the Arts, Senior Vice President of Corporate Finance with Wachovia Securities in Atlanta, and Vice President of Banc of America Securities in Charlotte and New York City. Currently, Boschulte serves as the Chairman for the Board of Directors of The West Indian Company Limited (WICO) and sits on the board for the Virgin Islands Port Authority. He is also a member of the US Travel Association. Commissioner Boschulte earned his MBA from Darden School of Business at the University of Virginia. A family man first, Commissioner Boschulte is a husband to his wife Aisha, and proud parents of children Jaeden and Janae. Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

January 25, 2024 11:44 AM Eastern Standard Time

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The Shifters Collection: Digital Art Phenomenon Sold Out for $45 Million in Just 90 Days

Art Source

In a remarkable fusion of technology and art, the Shifters collection has created a significant buzz in the digital art world. This unique collection, which sold out at theshifters.io, offers an intriguing blend of history and futuristic concepts, encapsulating the essence of its four distinctive factions: Vortex, Magnitude, Velocity, and Pentagon. Brainchild of renowned digital artist Doctor Troller, the Shifters collection is a fascinating mix of folklore and modern technology. It narrates the story of ancient 40-foot-tall metal knights, originally created by the Kings of England as a defence mechanism. Rediscovered and revamped by the Soviet Union under Operation Shifter, these knights were transformed into technologically advanced beings, each faction embodying unique characteristics and capabilities. This innovative collection has resonated strongly with art enthusiasts, leading to its entire collection selling out for an astounding $45 million over a span of 90 days. Each Shifter, whether it be the tank-tracked Vortex, the helicopter-rotored Magnitude, the jet-propelled Velocity, or the multi-faceted Pentagon, has captivated audiences worldwide. Following this ground-breaking success, anticipation is intensifying for Doctor Troller’s upcoming collection, "Break Through", available at doctortroller.com. This new collection is expected to follow in the footsteps of its predecessor, with investors and art aficionados eagerly waiting. A limited series of 10 pieces, priced at $1 million each, will be exclusively available later this year. Doctor Troller's unique approach and style in the digital art landscape have drawn comparisons to some of the most iconic figures in contemporary art. His innovative Shifters collection, much like Banksy's provocative and politically charged street art, is reshaping the way digital art is perceived and valued. Additionally, the essence of his work echoes the styles of other celebrated artists like Shepard Fairey, known for his impactful "Obey" campaign and the Barack Obama "Hope" poster, and Damien Hirst, famous for his daring and often controversial pieces. These comparisons highlight Doctor Troller's growing influence and the significant role he plays in the evolving narrative of modern art. His work is characterised by a blend of mystery and a sharp commentary on modern society. This similarity has not gone unnoticed in the art community, with many drawing parallels between the artists' ability to captivate audiences and provoke thought through their art. Adding to the excitement and success of his Shoreditch Gallery in London, which opened late last year, Doctor Troller is launching The Doctor Troller Gallery, set to open in February, a testament to the growing interest and value in digital art collections. This expansion includes the opening of a second gallery in New York, further establishing Doctor Troller's presence in the international art scene. For those interested in the "Break Through" collection, a limited series of 10 pieces, priced at $1 million each, will be available. These exclusive pieces will be signed by Doctor Troller and come with a certificate of authenticity, making them a valuable addition to any investor’s collection. Early investors looking to be a part of this exciting new venture are encouraged to show their interest via the Contact Us page on doctortroller.com. The platform provides a seamless way for enthusiasts to stay updated and involved in the evolving world of digital art created by Doctor Troller. For more information about the Shifters collection, please visit theshifters.io, and for the upcoming "Break Through" series, visit doctortroller.com. Contact Details Doctor Troller Doctor Troller +44 333 355 3548 art@doctortroller.com Company Website https://www.doctortroller.com/

January 24, 2024 10:59 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Centre for Neuro Skills Announces New General Counsel

Centre for Neuro Skills

Bakersfield, Calif. (Jan. 24, 2024) Centre for Neuro Skills (CNS), a leader in traumatic brain injury and stroke rehabilitation services, today announced the appointment of Jamie Mason, J.D., as general counsel. “Jamie has extensive in-house counsel experience and a strong background in healthcare,” says Nicholas Ashley, chief governance officer of Centre for Neuro Skills. “She is a fast learner and quickly integrated herself with the team. We are fortunate to have her in the company to keep us moving forward.” Mason joined CNS as assistant general counsel in March 2023. As general counsel, she will oversee all aspects of the organization’s legal, risk management and regulatory performance efforts. Mason will provide oversight across all seven CNS clinics throughout California and Texas. Mason received her Juris Doctor degree from Southwestern Law School and has more than 10 years of experience as a trial attorney, primarily representing hospitals, medical groups, physicians and attorneys. The CNS Bakersfield clinic is the company’s flagship location, established in 1980. CNS has two other clinics across California in Los Angeles and San Francisco, as well as four Texas clinics in Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston and Austin. Through inpatient, outpatient, day treatment and residential rehabilitation programs, CNS’ facilities provide tailored neurorehabilitation therapy to patients. “Centre for Neuro Skills is not only an industry leader in post-acute neurorehabilitation services but also a pioneer in healthcare with unmatched passion, innovation and growth,” said Mason. “It is an honor and privilege to serve as general counsel for CNS, and contribute to making a positive impact on our patients’ lives.” *** About Centre for Neuro Skills Centre for Neuro Skills is an experienced and respected world leader in providing intensive rehabilitation and medical programs for those recovering from all types of brain injury. CNS covers a full spectrum of advanced care from residential and assisted living to outpatient/day treatment. Founded by Dr. Mark Ashley in 1980, CNS has seven locations in California and Texas. For more information about Centre for Neuro Skills, visit: www.neuroskills.com, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube. Media, please note: Visual assets, including photos, are available. To request an interview with CNS leadership or clinical staff, please contact Robin Carr at 415.766.0927 or CNS@landispr.com. # # # Contact Details Robin Carr +1 415-766-0927 cns@landispr.com Company Website https://www.neuroskills.com/

January 24, 2024 07:00 AM Pacific Standard Time

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CRAIG KNIPPENBERG, LCSW, M.DIV., RELEASES SECOND PARENTING GUIDEBOOK, SHAME-FREE PARENTING

Knippenberg, Patterson, Langley & Associates

Craig A. Knippenberg, LCSW, M.Div., a Denver-based mental health counselor with four decades of family therapy experience, and founder/host of the Legit Parenting podcast, announced today the release of his second book, Shame-Free Parenting ( Illumify Media Global ), a parenting guide for building family resiliency. In its first six weeks on Amazon, the book hit #1 in Kindle sales across all parenting books. In Shame-Free Parenting, Knippenberg demystifies many challenges associated with parenting today, which can result in over-protective child-rearing approaches. Now – more than ever – parents, children and families are faced with trying times as the world’s current events and social media platforms elicit a plethora of mixed feelings and emotions. Knippenberg believes that “ a pandemic of fragility has arisen amongst our children and teens, ” driven by modern-day culture and events. He also likens the smartphone to a modern pandora’s box that -- in combination with modern cultural issues, such as the impact and aftermath of COVID-19, school shootings, climate change, and persistent news coverage of war and social conflicts -- creates a state of chronic stress. He elaborates on these and other theories in the book. Loaded with judgment-free parenting wisdom and invaluable resources, Shame-Free Parenting inspires parents to build families capable of not only withstanding such challenges but also affording them ways to flourish amid them. In the book, parents will discover: How to let go of guilt/shame and the importance of being just this side of good enough A roadmap for understanding pivotal aspects of child-rearing, with tangible techniques for forging meaningful connections with children while championing their autonomy A holistic approach to emotions, boundaries and acceptance, all focused on progress A timely exploration of contemporary challenges – from the allure of TikTok and gaming to hard conversations about school shootings, the book features the essence and importance of structure, resourcefulness and steering young minds toward a driven purpose A call to action: embrace family spontaneity, adventure and community service as instrumental avenues for cementing ties and imparting core values “As a family therapist for more than 40 years, I’ve listened and witnessed. I have had the opportunity to gather substantial, firsthand accounts and information that has armed me with vast knowledge about navigating today’s ever-evolving landscape for children, teens and parents alike. I captured these experiences in my newest book and provided strategies and tips to help families connect and stay strong together,” Knippenberg said. “In Shame-Free Parenting, I help families better understand how children's brains work so they can foster both deeper connection and independence without guilt or shame. Building strong families is what healthy parenting is all about. It truly is the foundation of any successful family unit,” Knippenberg added. Michele Borba, ED.D., a best-selling author also endorsed by Harvard’s Robert Brooks, PhD, commented on Shame-Free Parenting: “Stellar! Given the modern cultural issues which face families, it’s imperative to focus on resiliency and problem solving.” Shame-Free Parenting is available at local bookstores or on Amazon. Legit Parenting is available through the Apple Store or on Spotify. Knippenberg’s first book Wired and Connected: Brain-Based Solutions To Ensure Your Child’s Social and Emotional Success, released in 2019, provides brain-based solutions for ensuring social skills and emotional success of children. About Craig A. Knippenberg Craig A. Knippenberg, LCSW, M.Div., is a Denver-based mental health therapist who has garnered significant expertise working with children and families throughout his four decades in private practice and while serving as a school consultant for 40+ years. While dedicating his career to educating and treating the behavioral, emotional and social needs of children and adolescents, Knippenberg founded Colorado’s largest, solely owned private mental health practice specializing in child and adolescent neurobehavioral disorders. He also earned notoriety for creating the CONNECT Social Skills Group Program 42 years ago, which spans socialization groups targeted at helping children navigate the ups and downs of childhood and adolescence, CONNECT has helped thousands of children grow and mature. Knippenberg hosts the Legit Parenting podcast, combining his four-plus decades of experience working with families and kids with his current brain-based research and pertinent tools, to help parents support the mental well-being of their children. Knippenberg holds a master's degree in Clinical Social Work from the University of Denver and a Master of Divinity with a focus on pastoral counseling from the Iliff School of Theology in Denver. For more information, please visit www.legitparenting.com or follow Knippenberg on LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram. Contact Details PAIRELATIONS, LLC Susan Turkell +1 303-766-4343 sturkell@pairelations.com Company Website http://www.legitparenting.com/

January 24, 2024 08:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Announcing the 2024 Global Tourism Conference by 1TourismWorld: A Convergence of Tourism Leaders and Innovators

1BusinessWorld

1TourismWorld proudly announces its much-anticipated event of the year, the 2024 Global Tourism Conference. This event, set to unfold from February 12th to 16th, 2024, promises to be a landmark gathering, bringing together the world's most influential leaders and innovators in the tourism and hospitality sectors. The 1TourismWorld | 2024 Global Tourism Conference is more than just a meeting of minds; it is a comprehensive, multi-day event designed to explore the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the global tourism and hospitality industries. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and the evolving landscape of travel and hospitality, this conference is set to be an invaluable platform for learning, networking, and fostering growth in the global tourism market. Featured Speakers and Sessions include: · Chip Rogers, President & CEO, American Hotel & Lodging Association · Dimitris Manikis, President & Managing Director EMEA, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts sharing "Global Perspectives in Tourism and Hospitality" · Stuart Greif, EVP - Strategy & Innovation, Forbes Travel Guide on the topic "Exploring Horizons: Consumer Travel Trends and Destinations" · Judy Chen, Vice President of Development - Dream Hotels, Hyatt Hotels Corporation on the topic: “The Dynamic Evolution of Lifestyle Hotels and Private Members' Clubs” · Lisa Bauer, President & CEO, Starboard Cruise Services, “Curating Unforgettable Journeys: How Teams at Sea Make the Difference” This event is not only a platform for industry insights but also an opportunity for attendees to engage directly with thought leaders and influencers. From panel discussions and keynote speeches to interactive workshops and networking sessions, the conference is designed to inspire and empower professionals across the tourism and hospitality sectors. "We are thrilled to host an array of esteemed speakers and industry leaders at the 2024 Global Tourism Conference. Their insights and expertise are invaluable in navigating the current and future landscapes of tourism and hospitality," said Stelios Hatzakis, CEO of 1BusinessWorld. Registration for the 2024 Global Tourism Conference is now open. We invite professionals from across the industry – from hoteliers and restaurateurs to travel managers and innovators – to join us in this extraordinary event. Together, we will shape the future of global tourism and hospitality. For more information and to register, please visit https://1businessworld.com/1tourismworld-conference/ All news and content distribution in partnership with News Direct. About 1BusinessWorld 1BusinessWorld is a global business ecosystem, network and marketplace that provides entrepreneurs, business owners and professionals with the information, tools, resources and connectivity needed to succeed throughout their company’s growth journey, toward a better business world. Our vision is based on the reality that we live, work and do business in one global interconnected business environment, and hence our motto: “One World, One Business World”. Our mission is to encourage and support global communication and collaboration among entrepreneurs, professionals, and businesses. 1BusinessWorld Contact Details 1BusinessWorld Media Enquiries +1 212-220-6677 info@1businessworld.com Company Website https://1businessworld.com

January 23, 2024 06:21 PM Eastern Standard Time

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Graton Resort & Casino’s New Restaurant Bistro 101 Opens January 23rd

Graton Resort & Casino

Graton Resort & Casino, today announced the debut of Bistro 101, a new restaurant with a wine country inspired menu by Chef John Trunk. Bistro 101 will feature elevated American casual cuisine and is set to open on Tuesday, January 23 rd. “Bistro 101 is a great addition to our diverse family of restaurants,” said Mario Maesano, chief marketing officer of Graton Resort & Casino. “Chef John Trunk has long been recognized as one of the top chefs in Sonoma County, and together with our vice president of food and beverage William Becker, the team has come up with a menu sure to please all our guests in a beautiful and comfortable atmosphere. We’re excited to showcase their culinary vision.” Bistro 101 The concept and theme of Bistro 101 is described by Chef Trunk as “locally sourced, well prepared comfort foods served in a welcoming space that will become a destination for social interaction, music and live entertainment.” The restaurant will open to guests on January 23rd and the themed cocktail areas will debut in Spring 2024. Local suppliers to Bistro 101 include Sebastopol Microgreens, Mary’s Chicken (Santa Rosa), and Parliament Brewery (Rohnert Park). Bistro 101’s menu will focus on American Brasserie meets Wine Country casual fare, and the menu is available online. “American Brasserie” is a nod to the French association with the word Bistro and the Americana interpretation of that style of food. “Wine Country Casual” is an acknowledgment of Bistro 101’s approachable nature, location, and enhanced food and service standards. Bistro 101 will be open every day from 7:00 AM - 12:00AM featuring both breakfast and lunch/dinner menus. Sample menu items available at Bistro 101 Sonoma County Coast Creamy Clam Chowder Griddled Bao Buns with San Giacamo Prosciutto. A “dirty fries” assortment Wagyu Short Rib Melt sandwich. Bistro Burger Bar including double smash and vegan black bean burgers. Craft cocktails/craft beers/local wines. About Chef John Trunk Trunk is a second-generation chef originally from Poughkeepsie, NY. He graduated with honors from The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY in 2002. After graduating, he worked in New York City as a sous chef, private chef and caterer. Trunk moved to Sonoma County in 2007, where he was the opening sous chef of The West County Grill in Sebastopol, headed up by Chef Jonathan Waxman. He then worked as a restaurant chef for Chef Cindy Pawlcyn in Napa Valley for five years and was also the chef of the Pullman Kitchen in Santa Rosa, before joining the Graton food & beverage team in 2019. Media Please Note: Media are invited to experience the new menu and meet the team. Please contact graton@landispr.com for more information on the media preview. About Graton Resort & Casino Located in Sonoma County, Graton Resort & Casino has a commanding presence among the rolling hills of Northern California's wine country. Owned and operated by the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, Graton Resort & Casino features table games, the latest slot machines, upscale and casual dining, plus entertainment options for visitors and locals alike. For more information, please visit www.gratonresortcasino.com. # # # Contact Details Landis Communications Inc. Brianne Miller +1 415-766-0887 graton@landispr.com Company Website https://www.gratonresortcasino.com/

January 23, 2024 08:39 AM Pacific Standard Time

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Ripken Baseball® Expands Partnership with Glossy Finish, Brings Award-Winning Photography to Cooperstown All Star Village™

Ripken Baseball

Ripken Baseball®, the leader in youth sports experiences, has named the award-winning photography company Glossy Finish the official and exclusive photographer for Cooperstown All Star Village™. As a youth baseball resort destination for 12U teams worldwide, Cooperstown All Star Village will offer families high-quality photography through a dedicated team of Glossy Finish photographers starting in 2024. "Glossy Finish's dedication to excellence in sports photography perfectly complements our mission to create extraordinary youth baseball experiences," said Rick Abbott, CEO of Cooperstown All Star Village. “Cooperstown All Star Village is a rite of passage for any youth baseball player, and capturing those memories is a high priority for our parents, coaches, and players." Glossy Finish has been operating at other Ripken Baseball facilities nationwide since 2014 and will now play an integral role by capturing memorable moments at Cooperstown All Star Village. Glossy Finish will set up and operate a photo store, studio, and onsite production area so guests can take home their memories. "We are honored and excited to solidify our role as the official and exclusive photographer of Cooperstown All Star Village," said Haim Ariav, Founder & CEO at Glossy Finish. "This partnership further underlines our commitment to preserving the spirit and passion of youth baseball through outstanding photography. We look forward to working with Ripken Baseball to make every moment at Cooperstown All Star Village truly unforgettable." The partnership will also provide job opportunities for photographers, graphics, and sales people in the Cooperstown area. Interested candidates can apply at glossyfinish.com/work-with-us Additionally, a custom webpage at glossyfinish.com/cooperstown has been created to offer more information about the photography service and packages available. About Glossy Finish Glossy Finish is an award-winning photography company specializing in capturing moments and creating memories of youth sports. With a staff of skilled photographers, graphic designers, and state-of-the-art equipment, Glossy Finish is dedicated to creating lasting keepsakes through the art of photography. Learn more at glossyfinish.com. About Cooperstown All Star Village Cooperstown All Star Village™ is a world-class youth baseball experience and family resort located in the birthplace of baseball. In addition to major league-style baseball fields and amenities, Cooperstown All Star Village offers onsite lodging for the whole family, full-service dining, heated swimming pools, and entertainment. As of 2023, the facilities at Cooperstown All Star Village are part of the Ripken Baseball family of complexes. Learn more at cooperstown.com. About Ripken Baseball Ripken Baseball brings teammates, coaches, and families together through its Big League Experiences while teaching children how to play sports the right way – the Ripken Way. Ripken Baseball continues to innovate the game through tournaments, camps, clinics, and spring training at their state-of-the-art facilities – The Ripken Experience ® Aberdeen Powered by Under Armour® (Maryland), The Ripken Experience ® Myrtle Beach (South Carolina), The Ripken Experience ® Pigeon Forge (Tennessee), The Ripken Experience ® Elizabethtown (Kentucky), Sports Force Parks™ at Cedar Point Sports Center (Ohio), and Cooperstown All Star Village (New York). Ripken Baseball also develops and trains athletes through the acquisition of Baseball Factory™ and Softball Factory™. Learn more at ripkenbaseball.com. Contact Details Eric PR & Marketing, LLC Eric Nemeth nemeth@ericpr.com Company Website https://www.glossyfinish.com/cooperstown/

January 23, 2024 10:40 AM Eastern Standard Time

Logitix Launches Ticketing Integration with Tessitura – Confirms Partnerships with Tessitura Organizations Across Multiple Arts Sectors

Logitix

Logitix, the leader in expanding new marketplaces for arts, sports, and entertainment venues to sell more tickets, today announced that the integration with their partner, Tessitura Network, is complete. Since initiating their partnership in January 2023, Logitix has facilitated hundreds of thousands of dollars of sales for Tessitura-powered performing arts centers, symphony orchestras, theaters, and dance companies. The innovative partnership between Tessitura and Logitix has transformed how performing arts organizations handle ticket sales. This integration equips them with advanced tools for optimizing ticket distribution, maximizing revenue, and reducing speculators. Ticket sales via the Logitix-enabled marketplaces have led to new audiences for the arts organizations. Through Logitix’s Open Distribution integration, Tessitura venues can now effortlessly distribute their tickets electronically across multiple marketplaces without compromising the availability of tickets on their primary sales platform. This seamless integration, accessible directly from their main user interface, empowers venues to tap into broader markets and distribution networks, ultimately boosting ticket sales. This system enables venues to gather valuable data on ticket buyers and pricing while the marketplaces conveniently handle ticket fulfillment. “When I joined Logitix as an advisor, this is exactly the type of partnership I envisioned to help performing arts organizations improve their ticketing strategies,” said Jack Rubin, Co-Founder and 20-year CEO of Tessitura, who joined Logitix as Strategic Advisor in 2022. “This is just the beginning. Tessitura has an impressive network of performing arts organizations that will benefit from Logitix technology. Rubin added, “Strategies like dynamic pricing don’t always mean higher ticket prices for the consumer. Logitix will help match supply and demand, and sell at the optimum date-driven price, whether lower or higher. Or, the client can specify a price or price range. Consumers benefit, and the organizations seamlessly sell tickets in more places. With the challenges that arts organizations face, this is a no-risk approach to drive more sales.” Registrants to the INTIX ticketing conference in Las Vegas on January 29 - February 1, 2024, can attend a Logitix-moderated session on New Distribution, New Revenue, New Audiences, and New Tools. Lisa Middleton, VP of Marketing and Communications for the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, is one of the presenters, along with leaders from Opry Entertainment Group and LA Galaxy. Segerstrom Center is a longstanding member of the Tessitura community and a partner of Logitix. Logitix is a leader in multichannel ticket distribution, data, and pricing. The company’s proprietary software, distribution tools, and analytics open new sales channels for theaters, performing arts centers, and other users of Tessitura’s unified CRM and transaction system. Channels include well-known ticket exchanges that attract millions of customers each year. Additionally, real-time data insights automate dynamic pricing decisions to address changing ticket demand and meet customers where they are. Tessitura community members interested in exploring Logitix’s solutions can email info@logitix.com. About Tessitura Tessitura is a nonprofit technology company dedicated to helping arts and culture organizations thrive. CRM lies at the heart of our mission and our technology platform so organizations can take a holistic approach to building customer engagement. Ticketing works hand-in-hand with fundraising, membership, marketing, education and front of house. Intuitive tools turn data into action. And features like fully integrated payment processing, contactless scanning and seamless digital solutions mean our community is poised to rebuild a successful, sustainable future. We work with over 750 organizations in 10 countries. For more information, visit www.tessituranetwork.com. About Logitix Logitix is the preeminent monetization engine and ticketing platform for the live event industry, combining optimized pricing, distribution, and inventory management with real-time insights to help sellers and buyers respond to a rapidly changing market environment. The Logitix vision is to automate the entire ticket life cycle and provide data-driven insights to serve the diverse needs of its clients. The company is backed by ZMC and is privately held. For more information about Logitix, visit Logitix.com or find them on LinkedIn. Contact Details Eric Nemeth nemeth@ericpr.com Company Website https://logitix.com/

January 23, 2024 08:42 AM Eastern Standard Time