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Xeikon is set to revolutionize professional development in the print and packaging industry with its innovative 'Unboxed: A Xeikon Learning Experience' event. Scheduled for September 25, 2025, this full-day immersive program will take place at the Xeikon North American Innovation Center in Elgin, Illinois. Designed for professionals across the print ecosystem, 'Unboxed' goes beyond traditional conferences by emphasizing education and collaboration over sales pitches. Attendees will engage with industry experts, explore cutting-edge digital print technologies, and gain actionable insights into emerging market trends. Key event highlights include educational sessions led by industry veterans Eric Vessels and Joanne Gore, real-world digital print demonstrations, and a live case study from Repacorp showcasing practical digital transformation strategies. Participants will also enjoy interactive sample stations and exclusive 1:1 conversations with Xeikon's leadership team. Kent Wolford, Xeikon North America's Director of Marketing, emphasized the event's core mission: 'Our goal is to create experience-led events that foster community, innovation, and collaboration.' The program targets printers, converters, packaging managers, designers, and agency professionals seeking to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving digital marketplace. The day concludes with a unique networking opportunity - a private dinner cruise on the Chicago River, providing an ideal setting for reflection and connection among industry peers. This event represents a significant opportunity for professionals to gain deep, practical understanding of digital print's transformative potential.

A. Aubrey Bodine emerged as a transformative photographic artist who redefined documentary photography in the mid-20th century. Beginning his career in 1923 with the Baltimore Sunday Sun, Bodine elevated photography from mere documentation to a sophisticated art form. Bodine's approach was revolutionary. He viewed his camera and darkroom equipment as creative tools, comparable to a painter's brush or sculptor's chisel. His meticulous technique involved carefully composing images in the viewfinder and extensively manipulating negatives through innovative methods like dye application, pencil marking, and strategic scraping. Unlike traditional photographers, Bodine didn't simply capture scenes—he crafted them. He believed photographers could selectively emphasize mood, proportion, and design, much like painters interpret their subjects. His commitment to artistic integrity meant he 'made' pictures rather than passively 'took' them. Throughout his 47-year career, Bodine's remarkable documentary photographs chronicled Maryland's diverse occupational landscapes. His work consistently won international recognition, with exhibitions in prestigious museums and salon competitions worldwide. Bodine's legacy transcends traditional photographic boundaries, positioning him as a visionary who transformed photography into a legitimate creative discipline.

Lower Manhattan's 28 Liberty is transforming urban spaces into community gathering points with its upcoming outdoor film screening of Shrek. On Thursday, August 14, Fosun Plaza will host a complimentary evening featuring the beloved animated classic that celebrates friendship and self-acceptance. The event, presented in partnership with Alamo Drafthouse, offers families a unique opportunity to enjoy cinema under the open sky. Seating opens at 6:00 pm, with the movie beginning at 6:30 pm. Attendees can bring blankets for added comfort and are welcome to bring their own refreshments. Alamo Drafthouse will provide complimentary popcorn, enhancing the movie-going experience. The screening promises to be a delightful community event that brings together residents and visitors in a shared cultural moment. 'We are proud to offer a family-oriented community event to celebrate summer,' said Wei Bo, Fosun Global Partner, highlighting the plaza's commitment to creating engaging public spaces. The screening represents more than just entertainment - it's about building connections and creating memorable experiences in the heart of New York City. Shrek, featuring voices of Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, and Cameron Diaz, continues to captivate audiences with its heartwarming narrative of an unlikely hero discovering love and self-acceptance. This free screening invites families to enjoy a cinematic classic in a unique urban setting.

Under Armour is confronting a challenging business landscape in 2025, with tariffs expected to dramatically reduce profitability by approximately 50%. CEO Kevin Plank revealed the company's strategic response during a recent analyst call, outlining a comprehensive approach to mitigate economic headwinds. The sportswear manufacturer anticipates an additional $100 million in trade-related costs, prompting a strategic repositioning toward premium product offerings. This includes price increases on signature items like their tech T-shirt, now priced at $25, and introducing higher-end products such as a $45 hat. Financial performance reflects ongoing challenges, with revenue declining 4% in the first quarter to $1.1 billion. Projected second-quarter revenue is expected to drop an additional 6-7%. Despite these pressures, the company has shown some positive indicators, including a 70-basis-point improvement in gross margins. Industry analyst Neil Saunders notes that while sales decline rates have moderated, Under Armour still faces significant market differentiation challenges. The brand must navigate a competitive landscape where it risks being perceived as a commodity product among more trendy athletic wear competitors. Under Armour's strategic pivot toward premium positioning and operational efficiency represents a critical response to complex market dynamics. #Retail #Strategy #BusinessTrends

Amazon Web Services has made a significant strategic move in the quantum computing landscape by acquiring a $36.7 million equity stake in IonQ, signaling its commitment to emerging technological frontiers. The investment highlights the growing importance of quantum computing as a potential game-changing technology. By taking this stake, Amazon positions itself at the forefront of a technological revolution that promises exponential improvements in processing capabilities. IonQ, already a provider for major cloud platforms like AWS and Microsoft Azure, stands to benefit from this deeper partnership. The investment underscores the intense competition among tech giants to secure quantum computing capabilities and develop innovative infrastructure. While quantum computing remains years away from mainstream adoption, forward-thinking companies are making strategic bets. Amazon's move suggests a long-term vision of identifying and supporting technologies that could reshape computational paradigms. For investors and technology enthusiasts, this investment represents more than a financial transaction. It signals the potential emergence of a quantum-enabled economic ecosystem where computational power could be transformed dramatically. The quantum computing race continues to accelerate, with major tech players positioning themselves to potentially control the next generation of computational infrastructure.

Fran Burns brings a remarkable blend of professional expertise and passionate community leadership to her role as President of the Maryland State Fair and Agricultural Society, Inc. With a distinguished career spanning radio advertising sales and dental industry achievements, Burns now champions Maryland's rich agricultural heritage. Her commitment extends far beyond administrative duties. As a dedicated volunteer with MidAtlantic Horse Rescue, Burns has become a pivotal advocate for thoroughbred welfare, earning the prestigious Joe Kelly Unsung Hero Award in 2022. At Pimlico Race Track, Burns has transformed public engagement through her innovative tour program. By redesigning behind-the-scenes experiences, she has attracted over 2,500 guests during the 150th Preakness, showcasing her ability to connect communities with local traditions. Operating Boxwood Farm in Monkton, Maryland, Burns continues to support agricultural education and equine preservation. Her leadership represents a multigenerational commitment, following in her great-grandfather's footsteps as a steward of Maryland's agricultural legacy. Burns exemplifies how professional experience can translate into meaningful community service, bridging personal passion with institutional leadership.

Guam's culinary landscape offers a unique souvenir that transcends traditional travel mementos. Love Island Mango & Coconut Jam has emerged as a standout product that encapsulates the island's vibrant spirit and natural bounty. Crafted from locally harvested mangoes and coconuts, this artisanal jam represents more than just a condiment. It's a sensory journey that transports consumers directly to Guam's sun-drenched beaches and lush landscapes. The jam's minimalist approach preserves the fruits' authentic flavors, creating a pure and unadulterated taste experience. Major publications have recognized the jam's exceptional quality. USA Today praised its 'perfect harmony of exotic sweetness,' while Travel + Leisure highlighted it as a 'top culinary discovery.' The LA Times called it 'a souvenir with soul' that lingers in memory long after a trip concludes. Travelers and food enthusiasts consistently rave about the product. 'It's not just jam,' says one Los Angeles visitor, 'it's sunshine and ocean breeze in a tube.' The jam's smooth texture and balanced flavor profile make it a unique gastronomic treasure. Beyond its taste, Love Island Jam offers an elegant, compact design that makes it an ideal gift. It transforms a simple souvenir into a meaningful connection with Guam's rich culinary heritage.

Melbourne's home design sector is witnessing a transformative shift as Joshua Tiles expands its product range to meet growing demand for eco-friendly, versatile flooring options. The company's latest collection represents a strategic response to evolving consumer preferences for sustainable and aesthetically pleasing materials. The new product line offers an unprecedented variety of tiles and flooring solutions that cater to diverse architectural styles, from minimalist urban apartments to classic heritage homes. By prioritizing environmentally responsible manufacturing processes, Joshua Tiles is setting a new standard in the flooring industry. Key developments include an expanded supply chain ensuring faster delivery, increased showroom presence across Melbourne's suburbs, and enhanced digital infrastructure to streamline customer experience. These strategic investments demonstrate the company's commitment to providing comprehensive, personalized flooring solutions. With a focus on sustainability, durability, and design flexibility, Joshua Tiles is empowering homeowners and designers to create spaces that are both beautiful and environmentally conscious. The company's approach reflects Melbourne's sophisticated design sensibilities and growing environmental awareness. As the flooring market continues to evolve, Joshua Tiles remains at the forefront, offering innovative products that seamlessly blend style, functionality, and sustainability.

Selecting the right cat breeder is a critical decision for potential pet owners, and Loving Lynx Maine Coons sets a high standard in responsible breeding practices. With two decades of experience, this Tennessee-based cattery specializes in premium Maine Coon kittens that combine exceptional genetic health with distinctive physical characteristics. Their breeding program focuses on creating Maine Coons with signature 'wild lynx' features, including strong muzzles, thick ear tips, and long, plush tails. Each kitten undergoes comprehensive genetic DNA testing and receives complete vaccinations, ensuring optimal health and quality. Loved Lynx distinguishes itself through meticulous breeding standards and official certifications from prestigious organizations like the Cat Fanciers' Association and The International Cat Association. Their commitment extends beyond sale, offering lifelong breeder support and personally managed hand delivery to guarantee each kitten's comfort and safety. As the breeder notes, 'The bitterness of a poor-quality Maine Coon Kitten will linger long after the sweetness of a cheap price is forgotten' - a philosophy that underscores their dedication to responsible, high-quality breeding. For those seeking a remarkable feline companion, Loving Lynx represents a trusted source of exceptional Maine Coon kittens.

The Bowen Family Foundation is set to host its annual Invitational Golf Tournament and Gala on September 15th, showcasing the organization's commitment to supporting Central Texas children and families facing challenges. Presented by Shiner Bock at the picturesque Horseshoe Bay Resort, the event promises an extraordinary day blending competitive golf with powerful musical performances. The foundation's core philosophy, 'Music Heals,' will be prominently displayed throughout the gathering. Seth Hale from Cowboy Auctioneer highlighted the significance of their five-year partnership. 'We share the sentiment that music heals, and it's an honor to partner with Wade, his family, and generous supporters to make a meaningful impact,' Hale emphasized. The event's centerpiece will be a lively live auction, providing attendees an opportunity to contribute directly to the foundation's mission of providing love, resources, and opportunities to those in need. By combining sportsmanship, musical talent, and community spirit, the Bowen Invitational represents more than just a fundraiser—it's a testament to the transformative power of collective support and compassion. Guests can expect a day filled with excitement, camaraderie, and the potential to create lasting change for Central Texas families.