W Hotels Infuses a New Wave of Energy Into Canada’s Biggest City With the Opening of W Toronto

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Sound on. W Hotels Worldwide, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today announces the opening of W Toronto. Rising 11 stories in the vibrant, creatively charged neighborhood of Yorkville, the hotel is a celebration of Toronto’s storied art scene, diversity of culture, and legacy of non-conformity. Destined to bring a new energy and sophistication to the city’s luxury lifestyle hospitality scene, W Toronto gives locals a new playground and travelers an authentic, socially charged retreat.

“From its street art scene and ongoing musical legacy, Toronto is a natural fit for W Hotels,” says Benoit Racle, Vice President, Brand Management, W Hotels Worldwide. “Our unassuming, playful interpretation of luxury is poised to make W Toronto a regular stop for those living and working in Toronto as well as the perfect place for an out-of-town guest to revel in the city like a local.”

A Culture Clash of Design
Designed by global creative agency Sid Lee, W Toronto is a juxtaposition of the city’s biophilia, man-made city grid and brutalist architecture. The contrast begins with the exterior, where the brutalist façade has been transformed through warm, LED lighting that illuminates the night sky, including a glowing, opaque orange lift to take guests to the rooftop bar and restaurant. The journey begins on the 6th Floor, where the Welcome Desk and Living Room (the W brand’s signature lobby/lounge) drips in jewel tones of ruby, amethyst, and topaz – with curved lines and velvet furniture reminiscent of Toronto’s late 60s and early 70s counterculture movement. Other highlights of the 5,000 square foot space include a communal “fire” pit, a circular destination bar featuring cascading amber lighting, and access to The Yard, an outdoor terrace surrounded by a three-story atrium of guest room windows – creating a voyeuristic tension between public and private.

W Toronto features 254 guest rooms – including 30 suites – two of which are Extreme Wow (Presidential) Suites. Drawing inspiration from Toronto’s illustrious theater district, guest room beds are flanked by stage-inspired pendant lights and situated in front of a sapphire velvet curtain that can be automatically drawn open or shut. Design touches include curved banquettes, dressing-room style vanity mirrors, “record-like” tables in honor of Toronto’s musical legacy and nods to nature, like the abstract floral wallpaper and mushroom-shaped accent lights. As a playful wink to personal artistic interpretation, Double Queen Rooms are adorned with wall art that reads “Not everything has to mean something. Some things just are.” by Canadian writer and musician Charles de Lint.

Art + Soul: The Art Collection and Sound Suite of W Toronto
Music and creative artistry take centerstage at W Toronto, boasting Canada’s first W Sound Suite, the brand’s signature recording studio experience. Situated off the Living Room, behind a nondescript, one-way, tinted window, W Toronto’s W Sound Suite is outfitted with professional equipment where accomplished and novice musicians, podcasters, and other creatives can draw inspiration from the city and hotel scene.

From the psychedelic rock of the 60s and the hip hop of today, to the street art of Graffiti Alley, Toronto is known for its multidisciplinary artistic legacy. W Toronto honors and adds to this cannon with a collection of original work beginning with the W Monument on Bloor Street. Created by Sid Lee, it reflects biophilia and hippie culture through the use of natural crystal rock patterns and the bold palette of psychedelia. The journey continues with three murals by Dutch-born artist Mikael B. At the driveway is “Below The Surface,” a mesmerizing interpretation of undersea volcanic eruptions; “Hidden Gem” – located at Lift Level G – inspired by Salvador Dalí, Jackson Pollock and Peter Saul with an array of colors and geometric shapes; and “Clear Vision,” an abstract experimentation of color in the meeting and event space.

Coffee. Cocktail. Cuisine Scene.
Leading the creative culinary charge at W Toronto is Executive Chef Keith Pears, who is well-known to culinary enthusiasts. His enviable resume – B.C. Chef of the Year, Gold Metal Plates, Bocuse d’Or National Selection, and appearing on Chopped Canada – brings star quality to W Toronto’s three distinct beverage and food venues, taking guests on a progressive journey from morning to late night. It begins with PUBLIC SCHOOL, the rebellious, ground floor coffee house, kitchen and bar driven by barista culture by day and new school tonics, elixirs and low or no alcohol beverages by night. The playful, unpretentious, plant-forward menu is served across two sweeping levels, accentuated by inviting, late 60s/early 70s seating in a palette of soothing earth tones as well as “Toronto Gush,” an original mural by Costa Rican-born artist Alan Ganev, inspired by Toronto’s Graffiti Alley.

Ideal for a solo coffee, casual working lunch, after-work cocktail or late-night revelry, the Living Room pays homage to Toronto’s standing as the most multicultural city in the world. Featuring “Toronto Tapas” – light, shareable bites representing the city’s diverse neighborhoods – the menu includes: Barbacoa Tacos (Kensington Market); Jerk Chicken Skewers (Little Jamaica); and Fogo Island Cod Cheeks (Little India). “Sparkling” is the theme of the Living Room beverage program, with Champagne, rare bottles and a Perlini corking system allowing for unique flight experiences, bubbly by the glass as well as sparkling cocktails, such as the Celery Sour and the Green Goddess Bloody Mary.

As the sun sets, SKYLIGHT, the hotel’s rooftop bar and restaurant, casts a spell on the city’s late-night scene with alluring curated cocktails and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. The indoor-outdoor boho oasis overlooks Toronto’s iconic Bloor Street, celebrating the provocative and artistic spirit of the 60s Yorkville hippie revolution. In addition to the bazaar-inspired main room – with its nightly DJ booth and performance stage – SKYLIGHT features The Loft (for semi-private events); The Den (an intimate seating, people-watching nook); and The Terrace (with birdcage-style seating). The menu includes familial-style mezze, salatas, and freshly made maneesh served with tagines as well as an over-the-top Seafood Tower with oysters, clams, shrimp cocktail, escabeche, tuna and scallop crudos, king crab legs, lobster, and caviar. SKYLIGHT’s cocktail program is Vermouth and Amaro-centric with a selection of upscale curated cocktails, seasonal spritzes, and adult slushes.

Business is a Pleasure
With five event spaces encompassing 4,679 square feet, W Toronto is the ideal location for conducting business or celebrating a milestone. Industry, at 1,980 square feet, features botanical-inspired wallpaper decorated with elliptical lighting, reminiscent of floral seedlings, and can be divided into three intimate spaces. Studios 1 and 2, off the Living Room, as well as Strategy 1 and 2, offer more casual working session settings. Prior to that big presentation or wedding day, W Toronto’s 3,300 square foot FIT gym is the perfect place for guests to focus and recharge.

“W Toronto is a microcosm of the people, culture, and history of this incredible city,” says Craig Reaume, General Manager, W Toronto. “From the intentional design of each guest room and the authentically diverse menus to the music and vibe of each public space, W Toronto offers a long overdue alternative to the luxury hotel scene. We cannot wait to welcome guests time and again.”

About W Hotels Worldwide
Born from the bold, 24/7 culture of New York City, W Hotels has redefined hospitality for over two decades, breaking the norms of traditional luxury wherever the iconic W sign lands. With nearly 60 hotels around the globe, the detail-driven design, iconic Whatever/Whenever service and buzzing, signature Living Rooms create an experience that is often imitated but never matched. Dynamic and invigorating, the brand celebrates each traveler’s desire to uncover the destination through a lens that is distinctly W. For more information on W Hotels, visit www.whotels.com/theangle or follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. W Hotels Worldwide is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments™ and unparalleled benefits including complimentary nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit www.marriottbonvoy.com.

About Marriott Bonvoy®
Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program and marketplace, gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, as well as through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences, including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a level of personalization and contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com. To download the Marriott app, visit www.mobile-app.marriott.com. Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Media Contact
Derek Kokinda
Manager, Global Communications, Luxury Brands
Marriott International
Derek.Kokinda@marriottluxurybrands.com

Walmart.org Center for Racial Equity Update: Focusing on Food To Advance Health Equity

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Walmart.org Center for Racial Equity Update: Focusing on Food To Advance Health Equity

In several communities, you only need to travel from one neighborhood to the next to see massive differences, too often linked with race, in health outcomes. For example, in certain areas in the nation, people in one neighborhood may have a life expectancy 20 to 30 years shorter than people living just down the road, and we often see these gaps in areas divided along racial lines

In more than 15 years of working in food and nutrition across many communities, I have seen such disparities firsthand, where too often predominately Black and Brown communities experienced both chronic health problems and the highest rates of food insecurity. These disparities only worsened during the pandemic – in 2020, for example, 21.7% of Black households experienced food insecurity – more than twice the rate of White households. The common thread in all these communities was a lack of investment in the food system. Yet in these same communities, I found inspiration and resilience in the local leaders and organizations who worked to expand food access, despite having fewer resources.

As a company, we understand that food access and health outcomes are closely connected. In many neighborhoods, Walmart’s physical presence and omnichannel capabilities allow us to serve as a resource for affordable healthy food and health services. And beyond our business, through philanthropy, Walmart and the Walmart Foundation have funded programs to increase people’s access and confidence in eating healthier foods.

In 2020, Walmart and the Walmart Foundation made a commitment to go further – to use Walmart business initiatives and philanthropy to tackle health disparities that have affected the Black and African American community for generations. Walmart’s Health Shared Value Network (SVN), a team of associates guiding how the business approaches health equity, focuses on how Walmart’s capabilities and offerings can contribute to better health outcomes, including by addressing social determinants of health, such as food and nutrition insecurity.

The Walmart.org Center for Racial Equity is complementing the SVN’s work by investing in efforts that make healthy food options more available to the communities that need them most. We want to empower local entrepreneurs and organizations who know how to meet the needs of their communities but need investment to make lasting change. Recently, through Walmart and the Walmart Foundation, the Center invested nearly $9.5 million in grants to support organizations in finding solutions for healthy food while also driving economic development and building capacity in predominately Black communities with low food access. These grants support organizations working in two key areas:

The Intersection of Health Systems and Community-Led Food Solutions

  • The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center’s Be Well Communities initiative in Houston’s Acres Homes neighborhood, a 47% Black and 43% Hispanic community where MD Anderson works on strategies to prevent cancer. Our investment supports sustainable, neighborhood-based food solutions as part of the initiative, and we hope it helps us learn how similar investments in communities could work.
  • American Heart Association’s Bernard J. Tyson Impact Fund, which supports community-based food entrepreneurs and organizations in Atlanta and Chicago. This work is already underway, as 22 local businesses and nonprofits received funding to bring solutions for nutritious food to their communities. Take Atlanta Harvest as one example – a Black-owned, family-operated, multi-generational farm and food hub operating in food insecure neighborhoods.

Community-Led Food Solutions That Drive Economic Development

  • The EFOD Collaborative and Fund, fiscally sponsored by Community Services Unlimited, will use Equitable Food Oriented Development (EFOD), a food system strategy emerging from and focused on historically marginalized communities. EFOD food and agriculture projects aim to create community-owned business opportunities and healthy food systems. Projects are rooted in the neighborhoods they serve, use principles of community organizing and offer solutions that reflect the community’s cultural identity.
  • Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) will provide capacity-building grants to Black, Indigenous and people of color (BIPOC)-led grassroots organizations expanding access to healthy food in communities with low food access, with a focus on the Southeast. LISC will support the organizations as they build or strengthen their programs and forge partnerships in their communities.
  • Reinvestment Fund (RF) will focus on Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi – regions facing high levels of food insecurity – to research the current state of funding for food systems in the area. Working with community-based partners, RF will provide grants that build capacity for small- and mid-sized food organizations to grow their businesses and expand access to food in their communities.

These grants aim to shift resources toward local organizations that can serve as models of community innovation and empowerment through food. We hope they not only help improve food systems, but also inspire others to support the entrepreneurs and organizations best placed to provide local solutions that strengthen food access and ultimately the health of their neighbors.

LG Continues Partnership With LPGA as an Official Sponsor of The Amundi Evian Championship

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LG Continues Partnership With LPGA as an Official Sponsor of The Amundi Evian Championship

LG Electronics (LG) is once again the official partner of The Amundi Evian Championship, marking the sixth straight year the premium brand has lent its support to the prestigious women’s golf tournament. Proud to be associated with the pursuit of golfing perfection, LG continues to deliver on the LG SIGNATURE ‘Art of Essence’ philosophy, offering premium products that combine stylish, functional design with the latest technologies.

Throughout The Amundi Evian Championship 2022, which began today and runs until July 24, LG SIGNATURE is showcasing its latest offerings within the beautiful confines of the exclusive Evian Resort Golf Club.

The brand is also making its presence known at this year’s tournament through promotions and unique activations such as the Hole In One by LG SIGNATURE at hole 5. Any player able to hit a hole-in-one there during stroke play will win a premium LG SIGNATURE home appliance. On top of that, an LG SIGNATURE Refrigerator, placed near the first hole and highlighting the brand’s distinctive, refined design, will enable the players to enjoy refreshing drinks preserved at the perfect temperature. Additionally, LG SIGNATURE OLED TV will be on display in the Hotel Royal, palace of Evian Resort, showing off the stunning colors and infinite contrast that only LG’s self-lit technology can provide.

As a treat for fans who haven’t been able to see their favorite golfers in person for some time due to COVID-19 restrictions, LG is planning a signing event with LG SIGNATURE’s ambassadors Ko Jin-young and Park Sung-hyun, the planet’s top-ranked female golfers.

In addition, LG recently unveiled ‘Road to Perfection,’ a short film that shows how the world’s No.1 female golfer and LG SIGNATURE brand ambassador Ko Jin-young, The Amundi Evian Championship and LG’s luxury brand, all strive to be the very best at what they do. Inspirational and insightful, the film gives audiences a look at the passion, skill and total dedication required to excel at the highest level. A second film exploring ‘Road to Perfection’ will be launching next month.

“We are delighted to continue our partnership with The Amundi Evian Championship,” said Lee Jeong-seok, head of LG Electronics’ Global Marketing Center. “We hope to provide people with ‘timeless moments’ at this great tournament, and to demonstrate the natural alignment between our luxury brand and the world of professional golf. With ceaseless efforts and unmatched enthusiasm for achieving perfection, and a commitment to delivering timeless value and craftsmanship, LG will continue to offer exceptional products and unique brand experiences.”

To view the ‘Road to Perfection’ brand film, stay tuned to LG SIGNATURE’s official YouTube channel and Instagram account.

Marvel Studios Debuts Trailers for ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ and ‘She-Hulk: Attorney at Law’ Alongside Major Announcements at San Diego Comic-Con 2022

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Marvel Studios Debuts Trailers for ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ and ‘She-Hulk: Attorney at Law’ Alongside Major Announcements at San Diego Comic-Con 2022

Today in Hall H at San Diego Comic-Con, Miss Minutes clocked in to introduce Kevin Feige, president of Marvel Studios and chief creative officer of Marvel. Feige was joined onstage by moderator Ash Crossan to deliver Marvel Studios’ long-awaited live-action panel. Feige didn’t disappoint the enthusiastic crowd, showcasing the upcoming slate of Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) titles with trailers, special looks, Q&As with talent and filmmakers, major announcements, and a live, show-stopping performance. Fans at San Diego Comic-Con were also the first to learn that Phases 4, 5, and 6 are officially part of the Multiverse Saga, which will conclude with two new Avengers films.

Fans won’t have to wait long for the next Phase 4 title, as She-Hulk: Attorney at Law, will debut exclusively on Disney+ August 17, 2022. Directors Kat Coiro and Anu Valia, along with head writer Jessica Gao, were joined by cast members Tatiana Maslany, Ginger Gonzaga, and Jameela Jamil for a Q&A about the new series and to share a new trailer (above). She-Hulk: Attorney at Law centers on Jennifer Walters (Maslany), an attorney specializing in superhuman-oriented legal cases who must navigate the complicated life of a single, 30-something who also happens to be a green 6-foot-7-inch superpowered hulk. The nine-episode comedy series welcomes MCU veterans Mark Ruffalo as Smart Hulk, Tim Roth as Emil Blonsky/the Abomination, and Benedict Wong as Wong, and newcomers Josh Segarra, Jon Bass, and Renée Elise Goldsberry.

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever capped the Hall H presentation to thunderous roars and applause, beginning with a live performance by Baaba Maal (vocals), Massamba Diop (tama), dancers, and drummers. Feige was joined on stage by director Ryan Coogler and cast members Mabel Cadena, Michaela Cole, Winston Duke, Danai Gurira, Tenoch Huerta, Florence Kasumba, Alex Livinalli, Lupita Nyong’o, Dominique Thorne, and Letitia Wright for a Q&A and first look at the film’s first trailer (above). In Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Queen Ramonda (Angela Bassett), Shuri (Wright), M’Baku (Duke), Okoye (Gurira), and the Dora Milaje (including Kasumba) fight to protect their nation from intervening world powers in the wake of King T’Challa’s death. As the Wakandans strive to embrace their next chapter, the heroes must band together with the help of War Dog Nakia (Nyong’o) and Everett Ross (Martin Freeman) and forge a new path for the kingdom of Wakanda. The film introduces Tenoch Huerta as Namor, king of a hidden undersea nation. Feige also announced Black Panther: Wakanda Forever will end Phase 4 and open in U.S. theaters on November 11, 2022.

Feige—joined by director Peyton Reed and stars Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lilly, Jonathan Majors, and Kathryn Newton—announced that Phase 5 will kick off with Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania on February 17, 2023. Epic in scale and tone, Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania is a sci-fi adventure that is decidedly unique to the franchise. Super Hero partners Scott Lang (Rudd) and Hope Van Dyne (Lilly) return to continue their adventures as Ant-Man and The Wasp. Together, with Hope’s parents Hank Pym (Michael Douglas) and Janet Van Dyne (Michelle Pfeiffer), the family finds themselves exploring the Quantum Realm, interacting with strange new creatures and embarking on an adventure that will push them beyond the limits of what they imagined possible.

Next, Secret Invasion will launch on Disney+ in Spring 2023. Cobie Smulders—who reprises her role as Maria Hill, a decorated spy and Nick Fury’s loyal No. 2—appeared onstage to share details about the thrilling new series and share an exclusive clip. Secret Invasion stars Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury and Ben Mendelsohn as the Skrull Talos—characters who first met in Captain Marvel. They are joined by Kingsley Ben-Adir, Emilia Clarke, Olivia Colman, and Regé-Jean Page. The crossover event series showcases a faction of shapeshifting Skrulls who have been infiltrating Earth for years.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 will open in theaters on May 5, 2023. With director James Gunn taking the lead, actors Chris Pratt, Karen Gillan, Pom Klementieff, Sean Gunn, Will Poulter, and Maria Bakalova took part in an engaging discussion. Chukwudi Iwuji then arrived onstage in costume to announce he is play ingHigh Evolutionary. The audience also got a special look at the feature film, which showed the beloved band of misfits looking a bit different these days. In Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, Peter Quill (Pratt), still reeling from the loss of Gamora (Zoe Saldaña), must rally his team around him to defend the universe along with protecting one of their own—a mission that, if unsuccessful, could quite possibly lead to the end of the Guardians as we know them.

New details emerged regarding a host of previously announced titles in Phase 5. Three series are currently in production for Disney+: Echo (streaming Summer 2023), Loki Season 2 (streaming Summer 2023), and Ironheart (streaming Fall 2023). Agatha: Coven of Chaos begins filming later (streaming Winter 2023). Phase 5 theatrical releases include The Marvels, directed by Nia DaCosta and opening July 28, 2023, and Blade, which will begin shooting in October and open in theaters November 3, 2023. Feige also shared for the first time a trio of captivating projects that will debut in 2024:

  • Captain America: New World Order will open in theaters on May 3, 2024.
  • Daredevil: Born Again, an 18-episode season starring Charlie Cox and Vincent D’Onofrio, will stream on Disney+ in Spring 2024.
  • Thunderbolts, featuring an exciting new group of heroes, will open in theaters on July 26, 2024.

Looking ahead, Phase 6 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe promises compelling storytelling and Marvel Studios’ signature style of adventure. Fantastic Four will open in theaters on November 8, 2024; production kicks off in 2023 for the feature film that introduces Marvel’s most iconic family. Avengers: The Kang Dynasty will open in theaters May 2, 2025, followed by Avengers: Secret Wars, opening November 7, 2025.

The day prior, fans got a sneak peek at what’s in the works from Marvel Studios’ Animation via Brad Winderbaum, Marvel Studios’ head of streaming television and animation; Ryan Meinerding, head of visual development; Bryan Andrews, director of What If…? and executive producer of Marvel Zombies; AC Bradley, writer and executive producer of What If…?; Beau DeMayo, writer and executive producer of X-Men ‘97; Kirsten Lepore, writer, director, and executive producer of I Am Groot; and Jeff Trammell, head writer and executive producer of Spider-Man: Freshman Year.

Lepore answered questions about I Am Groot and treated the audience to the trailer (above) and key art. A surprise screening of one of the shorts, “Groot Takes a Bath,” delighted the audience, who applauded when a second collection of shorts was announced. In I Am Groot, there’s no guarding the galaxy from this mischievous toddler! So, get ready as Baby Groot takes center stage in his very own collection of shorts, exploring his glory days growing up—and getting into trouble—among the stars. I Am Groot, five original shorts featuring several new and unusual characters, stars everyone’s favorite little tree, Baby Groot, voiced by Vin Diesel. The executive producers are Feige, Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Winderbaum, and Gunn. I Am Groot launches exclusively on Disney+ August 10, with all five shorts available at once.

Trammell teased Spider-Man: Freshman Year with the cast of characters, and Meinerding showed off the new Spider-Man suit designed for the series. It was also announced that panel moderator Paul F. Tompkins will play a character in the series. Spider-Man: Freshman Year will follow Peter Parker on his way to becoming Spider-Man in the MCU—in a journey unlike we’ve ever seen and in a style that celebrates the character’s early comic book roots. The series will debut on Disney+ in 2024. During the panel, a second season was announced, aptly titled Spider-Man: Sophomore Year.

Andrews and Bradley discussed the Emmy® Award-nominated series What If…? and showed the trailer for the second season, launching exclusively on Disney+ in early 2023. The audience went wild when, at the end of the presentation, a surprise screening of one episode from the highly anticipated season was shown and a third season was announced. The second season of What If…? continues the journey with The Watcher as our guide through the vast multiverse, introducing new and familiar faces throughout the MCU. The animated series questions, revisits, and twists classic moments with an incredible voice cast that includes stars who reprise their iconic roles.

Andrews shared background on Marvel Zombies and its origins spawning from a Season 1 episode of What If…?, as well as concept art. Marvel Zombies  will reimagine the Marvel Universe as a new generation of heroes battle against an ever-spreading zombie scourge. Written by executive producer Zeb Wells, it will stream on Disney+.

The audience erupted in cheers when Winderbaum reflected on the legacy of X-Men: The Animated Series and presented a sizzle reel featuring cast and creatives from the popular ‘90s animated show. DeMayo then spoke about X-Men ‘97, shared artwork, and presented an animatic AV piece. DeMayo also mentioned the series will use the original X-Men theme music, and a second season was announced. X-Men ‘97, set in the iconic ‘90s timeline of the original series, will stream only on Disney+ in Fall 2023.

Customers spent over $3 billion supporting small businesses during the “Support Small Businesses to Win Big” sweepstakes in the three-week lead up to Prime Day.

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Customers spent over $3 billion supporting small businesses during the “Support Small Businesses to Win Big” sweepstakes in the three-week lead up to Prime Day.

Amazon remains steadfast in our commitment to support small businesses, and this Prime Day was no exception. This year was the biggest Prime Day event for Amazon’s selling partners, most of whom are small and medium-sized businesses, whose sales growth in Amazon’s store outpaced Amazon’s retail business.

Just in time for Prime Day shopping, Amazon unveiled the new Small Business Badge, which helps customers discover and shop products from small business brands and artisans in Amazon’s store. The new badge makes it easier for members to identify products from small businesses on product detail pages and in search results.

An illustrated image showing a home and words that say "small business"
The Small Business Badge identifies products from small business brands and artisans on Amazon.

Together with the Small Business Badge, Amazon’s “Support Small Businesses to Win Big” sweepstakes connected Prime members to small businesses selling in Amazon’s store. During the three-week lead-up period, from June 21 to July 11, for every dollar spent on eligible small business products, customers who registered for the sweepstakes had the opportunity to receive a chance to win prizes, including a pre-game experience and tickets to Super Bowl LVII, tickets to a special screening and cast meet-and-greet for the upcoming Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power series, millions of dollars in Amazon gift cards, and more. During the lead-up period, customers spent over $3 billion on more than 100 million small business items included in the “Support Small Businesses to Win Big” sweepstakes.

Celebrity Hilary Duff also joined some of her favorite small business owners from companies including Zach & Zoe Sweet Bee Farm, Fly By Jing, and Livity Yoga on Amazon Live on June 28 to discuss their products and inspiring stories. During the 48-hour Prime Day event on July 12 and 13, Amazon Live also spotlighted exciting deals curated from small businesses across Amazon.

Keep reading to hear from some of the small business owners who sold on Amazon during Prime Day.

Partake – Jersey City, New Jersey

An image of a woman smiling for a photo at a kitchen counter. There are cookie boxes in front of her.
Denise Woodard, founder and CEO of Partake

“Prime Day 2021 was Partake’s largest sales day of the year, so to say we have been excited for Prime Day 2022 is an understatement,” said Denise Woodard, founder and CEO of Partake Foods, a natural food company based in Jersey City, New Jersey. “This year, in the first day alone, Partake saw one of our highest sales days to date for 2022, with 4x our daily sales unit rate. In addition to Amazon’s strong support of Prime Day, we have introduced Lightning Deals to further drive visibility to Amazon customers. Partake is a small business that prioritizes inclusivity with our line of allergy-friendly foods. Partnering with Amazon supports our mission to ensure more people who want and need safer foods in their pantries can access them.”

Ubuntu Life – Austin, Texas

Two men smile for a photo while standing in a field.
Zane Wilemon, co-founder and CEO of Ubuntu Life

“It is an honor for our Ubuntu Life team to be in partnership with Amazon for Prime Day. Last year we experienced a 99% increase in unit sales on Prime Day,” said Zane Wilemon, CEO and co-founder of Ubuntu Life, a seller of handcrafted shoes, bracelets, bags, and jewelry made by the mothers of Kenya, based in Austin, Texas. “These results are substantial for our impact-driven business, which focuses on empowering women makers in Kenya. We’re excited to continue building this meaningful partnership and as a result reaching customers that would typically be impossible without Amazon.”

Livity Yoga – Baltimore, Maryland

A woman smiles for a photo while sitting cross-legged on a yoga mat.
Renee Manzari, founder and CEO of Livity Yoga

“We were thrilled to be part of the Amazon Prime Day promotion of small businesses, and we experienced a 326% increase in sales during Prime Day,” said Renee Manzari, founder and CEO of Livity Yoga, a sustainable yoga brand based in Baltimore, Maryland. “As an immigrant and woman of color, there have been so many hurdles in building a small business, yet with Amazon’s consistent effort to promote us, I’ve had such a huge platform to show the world not only our products but our purpose as well.”

Ujamaa Lighting – Austin, Texas

A man smiles for a photo in front of boxes that say "UJAMAA"
Rob Jackson, founder of Ujamaa Lighting

“We were ecstatic to partner with Amazon for this year’s Prime Day,” said Rob Jackson, founder of Ujamaa Lighting, a high-quality energy-efficient lightbulb company based in Austin, Texas. “Being a part of Amazon has provided Ujamaa with exposure to so many new customers beyond those in our local community—which has been invaluable to this small father-son business. We applaud Amazon for their efforts in promoting small businesses and look forward to working with them more in the future.”

Zach & Zoe Sweet Bee Farm – New York, New York

A family smiling for a photo in a living room.
Summer and Kam Johnson, founders of Zach & Zoe Sweet Bee Farm

“We had an extraordinary experience this Prime Day, and we’re so appreciative of Amazon for investing so much into Prime Day 2022,” said Summer and Kam Johnson, founders of Zach and Zoë Sweet Bee Farm, a raw honey distributor based in New York, New York. “Every year, we get more momentum, but this year was extra special. Most of our customers are Amazon Prime members, so they really showed up this year and supported and appreciated all of the special discounts this year. We didn’t anticipate being a seller on Amazon to get any better than it already was, with their constant engagement and convenience.”

EasyPeasie – Hallandale Beach, Florida

Two women smile for a photo in a kitchen wearing matching aprons.
Dorielle Price and Jamelah Tucker, co-founders of EasyPeasie

“EasyPeasie + Prime Day = partay! We’re always excited to see the increased traffic that Prime Day brings to our page and listings,” said Dorielle Price and Jamelah Tucker, co-founders of EasyPeasie, a vegetable blends company based in Hallandale Beach, Florida. “Participating in Prime Day is like having a booth at the biggest and best farmers’ market on Earth! Thank you, Amazon, for helping the families that need us find us!”

Nested Bean – Hudson, Massachusetts

A woman smiles for a photo in front of a white background.
Manasi Gangan, founder and president of Nested Bean.

“Prime Day has always been a record sales day for us, and this year was no different. Our business saw a 350% increase in units sold,” said Mihir Chheda, senior manager of growth and data analytics at Nested Bean, a baby sleep wellness company. “As a business in a high growth mode, raising awareness, acquiring new customers, and generating more sales from existing customers at a profitable cost are extremely important. It’s only possible to achieve all of this by leveraging a customer-centric store like Amazon.”

Shop curated collections from small businesses in Amazon’s store, including Black-owned, woman-owned, and military family–owned small businesses.

Study demonstrates AI may soon predict occurrence of atrial fibrillation

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Newly published research shows that deep learning model can predict the short-term risk of atrial fibrillation (AFib) based on 24-hour Holter recordings that show normal sinus rhythm

Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) affects millions of people each year. However, the condition is often unrecognized and untreated. Patients are often subject to 24-hour ambulatory electrocardiograms (ECGs) to receive a diagnosis, but this short-duration recording is known to have a low diagnostic yield and misses many patients with infrequent AFib episodes.

A recent study, “Short-term prediction of atrial fibrillation from ambulatory monitoring ECG using a deep neural network,” published in the June edition of European Heart Journal – Digital Health examined a learning model using a deep neural network from Cardiologs, part of Philips’ cardiac monitoring and diagnostics offering, to identify patients at risk of AFib in the two weeks following a 24-hour ambulatory ECG with no previously documented AFib.

Led by Dr. Jagmeet Singh, Cardiologist at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School, the study consisted of training the deep neural network to predict the near-term presence or absence of AFib by only using the first 24 hours of an extended Holter recording. Results showed that the network was able to predict whether AFib would occur in the near future with an area under the receiver operating curve, sensitivity, and specificity of 79.4%, 76%, and 69%, respectively, and outperformed ECG features previously shown to be predictive of AFib. These results showed a ten-point improvement compared to a baseline model using age and sex.

By getting patients the care they need sooner and potentially preventing more severe outcomes, we could help save lives.

Dr. Jagmeet Singh

Cardiologist at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School

“The Cardiologs study shows that 24-hour Holter data can be used to enhance current monitoring capabilities, bringing hope to high-risk patients who would benefit from proactive treatment and AFib mitigation strategies,” says Singh. “By getting patients the care they need sooner and potentially preventing more severe outcomes, we could help save lives.”

The Cardiologs study demonstrates the capability of artificial intelligence in predicting AFib in the short-term using 24-hour Holter compared to resting 12-lead ECGs. While 12-lead ECG gives access to a larger view of the hearts’ activity for a short period, 24-hour Holter provides longer-duration signals, therefore, offering additional inputs for predicting models.

The extension of AI capabilities towards predictions and digital biomarkers has the potential to bring improved health outcomes leading to new diagnostic paradigms. Predictive biomarkers may lead to early detection, enhanced patient monitoring, and improved patient management in general.

Philips’ portfolio of cardiac care solutions includes real-time patient monitoring, therapeutic devices, telehealth and informatics for the hospital, as well as ambulatory cardiac diagnostics and monitoring solutions. As part of Philips’ offering, Cardiologs is at the forefront of innovations that help set a new standard of patient care. Developed in partnership with leading physicians, Cardiologs’ technology accelerates diagnostic reporting, decreases the occurrence of reporting errors, and streamlines clinician workflow and patient care, empowering clinicians to deliver expert cardiac care faster and more efficiently.

Instacart and Chase launch new Instacart Mastercard® credit card; Unlocking new rewards and unlimited earnings from hundreds of retailers

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Instacart and Chase launch new Instacart Mastercard® credit card; Unlocking new rewards and unlimited earnings from hundreds of retailers

First-ever Instacart credit card rewards cardmembers each time they fill up their cart with unlimited cash back on groceries, everyday purchases, and more

Instacart, the leading grocery technology company in North America, and Chase, the largest co-brand card issuer in the U.S., today launched the new Instacart Mastercard credit card, with Mastercard as the exclusive payments network. With this first-ever credit card from Instacart, cardmembers can earn unlimited cash back with a range of redemption options, along with additional rewards and benefits.

The new Instacart Mastercard from Chase, a World Elite Mastercard, offers cardmembers:


Accelerated earning opportunities on groceries and everyday purchases

  • 5% cash back on Instacart purchases made at more than 800 national, regional, and local retail brands from more than 70,000 stores across more than 5,500 cities
  • 5% cash back on travel purchased through the Chase Travel Center
  • 2% cash back on restaurants, gas stations, and select streaming services
  • 1% cash back on all other purchases

“At Instacart, we’re always looking for new ways to provide value for our customers, and now more than ever we’re helping them maximize rewards on their everyday household shopping,” said Heather Rivera, Vice President of Strategy, Corp Dev, and Partnerships at Instacart. “We’re proud to partner with Chase for the first-ever Instacart credit card that will offer yet another way to access rewards both on and off the Instacart platform. From the weekly grocery shop to beauty products and sports equipment to household essentials, cardmembers will be rewarded with cash back on every purchase from many of their favorite retailers. They’ll also get free access to Instacart+ for a year, which enables them to pile on the savings with perks like no delivery fees on orders over a certain size, reduced service fees, and credit back on eligible Pickup orders.”

“The Instacart Mastercard was designed to provide Instacart users with more value, rewards and savings,” said Doug Einstein, General Manager of the Instacart Co-Brand Card at Chase. “Whether a cardmember is stocking up on groceries for the week, refilling their pantry with household goods, ordering late-night snacks, or something in between, we wanted to create a card that ensured checking out with Instacart pays off with unlimited opportunity to earn cash back.”

“Mastercard is thrilled to continue expanding our partnerships with Chase and Instacart, two companies that share our vision to enable consumers to save time and money through enhanced digital experiences,” said John Levitsky, Executive Vice President, North America at Mastercard. “Our World Elite benefits complement cardholders’ evolving lifestyles, whether shopping for everyday items or fueling people’s passion for culinary experiences.”

For a limited time, the first 10,000 consumers to apply and be approved for the Instacart Mastercard will receive a $200 Instacart credit and one year of free Instacart+ automatically upon approval. After the first 10,000 cardmembers, every new cardmember will receive a $100 Instacart credit and one free year of Instacart+. Instacart+ benefits include free delivery on orders over a certain size; reduced Instacart service fees; credit back on eligible Pickup orders; and exclusive benefits.


Rewards redemption option choices

  • Instacart orders: cardmembers will, in the future, be able to use cash back rewards to pay for all or part of an order in the Instacart App or on Instacart.com, with no minimum rewards balance to redeem
  • Cash back: cardmembers can choose to receive a direct deposit or a statement credit, with no minimum rewards balance to redeem
  • Travel: cardmembers can redeem cash back rewards for travel via the Chase Travel Center, including flights, hotels, cruises, and car rentals


Additional benefits

  • No annual fee
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • World Elite Mastercard benefits, including complimentary 24/7 concierge service, access to Mastercard Priceless® Experiences, and exclusive offers from popular brands for services like ride-sharing and online shopping
  • Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver
  • Purchase Protection
  • Extended Warranty Protection
  • Baggage Delay Insurance
  • Lost Luggage Reimbursement
  • Roadside Assistance
  • Travel Accident Insurance
  • Travel and Emergency Assistance Services

For more information about the new Instacart Mastercard, visit www.TheInstacartMastercard.com.

KFC INTRODUCES KENTUCKY FRIED CHICKEN NUGGETS TO ITS ALL-STAR CHICKEN LINEUP

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KFC INTRODUCES KENTUCKY FRIED CHICKEN NUGGETS TO ITS ALL-STAR CHICKEN LINEUP

CHARLOTTE, NC AREA GETS THE FIRST TASTE OF THE NEW MENU ITEM STARTING JULY 18

There’s a new nugget in town. Today, Kentucky Fried Chicken® is introducing Kentucky Fried Chicken Nuggets, available in select restaurants in Charlotte, NC, starting July 18 for a limited time only.*

Made with 100 percent white meat and hand-breaded with KFC’s unique Original Recipe of 11 Herbs and Spices that made the fried chicken chain famous, the Kentucky Fried Chicken Nuggets can be enjoyed as a snack, meal on-the-go, complement to the bucket meal or even as an appetizer on the way home!

“While nuggets often come in small packages, that doesn’t mean they should have small flavor. We wanted to introduce Nuggets with the flavor and ingredients that live up to our legacy as the original fried chicken experts,” said Nick Chavez, CMO, KFC U.S. “Our Kentucky Fried Chicken Nuggets offer a new way to enjoy our distinctive 11 Herbs & Spices and will have you saying, now THAT’S Finger Lickin’ Good.”

Each juicy nugget is bursting with so much flavor it doesn’t require dipping, though that doesn’t mean you can’t dip them! The new nuggets can be paired with any of your favorite KFC sauces, including KFC Sauce, Honey BBQ, Classic Ranch or Honey Mustard.

To celebrate the arrival of KFC’s new menu item in the Queen City, KFC is delivering an exclusive first taste of the new nuggets to invaluable staff at several Atrium Health maternity center locations who help bring new nuggets into the world each and every day.

Fried chicken fans in the Charlotte metropolitan and surrounding areas such as Concord, Mint Hill, Shelby, Salisbury and more can get a taste of Kentucky Fried Chicken Nuggets, by ordering at participating restaurants, or skip the drive-thru line by ordering through KFC’s Quick Pick-Up option on the KFC mobile app or KFC.com. Options include 8-, 12- and 36-piece (perfect for sharing).

*Prices and participation may vary. Available for a limited time only at select locations.

About KFC 

KFC Corporation, based in Louisville, Ky., has been serving up Finger Lickin’ Good Original Recipe® fried chicken since 1952. Beyond the top secret 11 herbs & spices, KFC specialties include the KFC Chicken Sandwich, Extra Crispy™ chicken and Extra Crispy™ Tenders, KFC Famous Bowls®, Pot Pies, Secret Recipe Fries, biscuits and homestyle sides. There are more than 26,000 KFC restaurants in over 145 countries and territories around the world. KFC Corporation is a subsidiary of Yum! Brands, Inc., Louisville, Ky. (NYSE: YUM). For more information, visit www.kfc.com. Follow KFC on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok.

Announcing Pavilion Name and Exterior Design
by Architect Yuko Nagayama for Japan World Expo 2025
(Osaka, Kansai)

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Announcing Pavilion Name and Exterior Design<br>by Architect Yuko Nagayama for Japan World Expo 2025<br>(Osaka, Kansai)

Panasonic Holdings Corporation has issued a press release entitled “Announcing Pavilion Name and Exterior Design by Architect Yuko Nagayama for Japan World Expo 2025 (Osaka, Kansai)” You can read the press release with the following PDF link.

Canon commences sales of FPD lithography equipment that achieves ±1.5 µm resolution with an overlay accuracy of ±0.35 µm for Generation 8 glass panels

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Canon commences sales of FPD lithography equipment that achieves ±1.5 µm resolution with an overlay accuracy of ±0.35 µm for Generation 8 glass panels

Canon Inc. announced today that the company has commenced sales of the MPAsp-H1003H, a new flat panel display (FPD) lithography system that is capable of resolving 1.5 µm1 (L/S2) features across Generation 8 glass panels3.

MPAsp-H1003H

MPAsp-H1003H

The rapid adoption of remote work and education has led to increased demand for information display devices including laptop PC and tablets. This demand is further compounded by the need for onboard displays in vehicles as electric cars become more widespread and automatic driving technology grows more sophisticated. Such displays must be thin, lightweight and high-resolution.

Conventional display panels have thus far been manufactured from Generation 6 glass panels4. However, newer Generation 8 glass panels enable a greater number of display panels to be manufactured per glass panel, and accordingly, there are growing needs for mass production using the Generation 8 panels. Canon’s new MPAsp-H1003H achieves a high resolution of 1.5 µm and an overlay accuracy of ±0.35 µm for Generation 8 glass panels, thus helping contribute to greater productivity in the manufacturing of displays for IT-related devices.

The MPAsp-H1003H inherits the same projection optics configuration as the MPAsp-H1003T (released in October 2018), which is capable of batch exposing 65-inch display panels on Generation 8 glass panels, as well as the ultra-high-resolution technology5 of the Generation 6 compatible MPAsp-E813H (released in September 2014), realizing a high resolution of 1.5 µm. This enables manufacturers to meet the need for information display panels with high resolution, as well as produce large 65-inch display panels without visible stitching marks.

Thanks to improved and refined high-speed stage technology, a widely praised feature of its predecessor models, the new MPAsp-H1003H realizes greater plate stage functionality that makes possible an approximately 20% boost in productivity compared with the MPAsp-H1003T. What’s more, the new system also achieves a 20% improvement in overlay accuracy (±0.35 µm) made possible by the combination of a proven alignment system and magnification correction machinery.

The MPAsp-H1003H features an illumination mode switching function that enables ultra-high resolution, as well as slit illuminance control (SIC) technology that maintains consistent line exposure width. These enable users to better adapt to increasingly diverse production needs while also contributing to reliable, high-quality manufacturing output.

  • 1Micrometer (μm): 1μm = one millionth of a meter = one thousandth of a millimeter.
  • 2Line and Space. Refers to patterns in which lines and spaces are separated by consistent intervals.
  • 3Glass panels with dimensions of 2,200 mm x 2,500 mm, primarily used in the manufacture of television displays.
  • 4Glass panels with dimensions of 1,500 mm x 1,850 mm, primarily used in the manufacture of small- and mid-size displays including those for smartphones.
  • 5Technology that controls the phase and intensity of light in order to increase the resolving power of the lithography system.
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