Technology

FinTech Leader 100GROUP Hosts 2nd Annual Retreat Focused on Team Building and Innovation

Published

2 years ago

July 29, 2024

MOORPARK, Calif., July 29, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — 100GROUP, a leader in software and credit card processing, proudly hosted its 2nd annual company retreat from July 13 to July 17, bringing together employees from its various brands and offices, including 100GROUP’s California and Michigan offices, Kennel Connection, ReCo Anywhere, EZ SecurePay, Hello-Groom, and PawLoyalty. The retreat took place in Westlake Village, CA, near the company’s headquarters in Moorpark, the hometown of 100GROUP CEO Jeff Brodsly.

Employees traveled from all over the world to participate in the five-day retreat themed “Embracing Yourself and Your Circle.” The event combined team-building activities, insightful presentations, and fun events to foster both personal and professional growth.

“This retreat was an incredible opportunity for our team to come together, share knowledge, and strengthen our bonds,” said Jeff Brodsly, CEO of 100GROUP. “We believe that by taking care of ourselves and ensuring our individual needs are met, we can better serve our clients and continue delivering VIP luxury customer service.”

The agenda included presentations on maximizing success, strategic growth, operational excellence, digital innovation, and financial insights. Brodsly also invited his personal financial advisor to offer a session on personal financial planning, providing this ongoing service to employees at no cost as part of 100GROUP’s employee benefits.

Attendees participated in group life coaching sessions focused on improving employee happiness and work-life balance, led by Heather McKay Novak from 180°BEING. Departmental feedback sessions encouraged open and honest communication, with prizes awarded for the best constructive criticism. “Setting the tone and encouragement for open conversations is crucial,” stated Brodsly. “We cannot fix what we do not know is broken.”

The retreat also included tours of the newly renovated 100GROUP corporate office and historic High Street in Moorpark, highlighting Brodsly’s revitalization efforts. Brodsly announced four promotions: Rick Brodsly to Senior VP of Client Success, Sarah McKee to Senior VP of Brand Management, Talia Hession to Senior VP of Payment Processing, and Andy Amena to Senior VP of Development. Brodsly believes in promoting from within and feels that rewarding and recognizing employees for their hard work is essential to maintaining a motivated and dedicated team.

A highlight of the retreat was the presence of Erik Nicholson, Senior Vice President of Partner Development at Fiserv, who traveled from Atlanta to engage with and recognize 100GROUP. Erik remarked, “Jeff has significantly grown his business with us, leveraging our platform and tools. He is one of our fastest growing and most highly integrated partners, with one of the brightest futures.”

The retreat’s prestige was further elevated by the recognition Brodsly received for his contributions. Ventura County Supervisor Janice Parvin, who served as the Mayor of Moorpark for 14 years, presented Brodsly with an award for his community and philanthropic efforts, stating, “Jeff Brodsly has been an outstanding member of our community for many, many years. His commitment and exceptional contributions to his community through his entrepreneurial spirit, hard work, passion, and dedication to others does not go unnoticed.” Additionally, Axion Communications honored Brodsly for his “strategic vision, unmatched loyalty, and unwavering support.”

The success of the retreat was largely due to the meticulous planning and organization by Sarah McKee, newly promoted Senior VP of Brand Management, and Kacy Waxman, Executive Assistant to the CEO. Their dedication and hard work ensured that the event ran smoothly and was a valuable and memorable experience for all attendees.

“This retreat was about more than just business—it was about embracing our unique strengths and supporting each other as a team. By fostering a culture of positivity and encouragement, we can achieve great things together, both personally and professionally,” said Brodsly.

About 100GROUP:

100GROUP, where innovation meets seamless business solutions. 100GROUP proudly stands as the parent company of a unique portfolio of business management software solutions, gateways, and payment processing, establishing itself as the ultimate platform in the financial technology industry.

At 100GROUP, we redefine the business landscape as the leading business services concierge. We cater exclusively to business owners, offering a comprehensive suite of essential products and services. Envision 100GROUP as the only platform a business needs – a centralized hub where possibilities unfold.

Navigating the intricacies of technology coupled with payment processing, and major vendor management becomes effortless with 100GROUP. Our groundbreaking model integrates personalized concierge services at your fingertips, bidding farewell to the complexities of managing multiple vendor relationships without VIP treatment. Providing a 24/7 business management concierge, 100GROUP is the one vendor business owners rave about.

For more information please visit www.100group.com.

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SOURCE 100GROUP

Technology

Register NOW for the Maynard Regional Training Series in partnership with Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications

Published

14 minutes ago

April 22, 2026

Maynard Regional Training Series for early-career and mid-level managers and editors features innovative frameworks, coaching and mentoring for career and newsroom development.

CHICAGO, April 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Robert C. Maynard Institute for Journalism Education will conduct its Maynard Regional Training Series with Northwestern University’s Medill Local News Initiative on June 4-5, 2026.

The Maynard Regional Training Series brings two days of onsite editing and management training to journalists across the United States. In partnership with universities, these sessions give editors and managers the tools they need amid the complexities of news leadership.

Award-winning journalists and Medill professors will lead the training with Maynard Institute faculty. This program is for editors and managers working in any platform, (print, broadcast, digital).

The training provides workshops, discussions and coaching to help emerging news leaders manage teams and news coverage. Northwestern will cover the standard registration fee on behalf of registrants. Two meals are provided each day, and limited discounted hotel rooms will be available.

“The Maynard Regional Training will deliver customized workshops designed to sharpen the craft and confidence of editors and newsroom managers,” said Odette Alcazaren-Keeley, director of the Maynard Regional Training Series. “Alongside hands-on coaching from award-winning editors, participants will grow our vital community of peer support.”

The Medill Local News Initiative and Accelerator work to spur a more inclusive and economically robust local news ecosystem by offering expertise and programs on topics including consumer research, content strategy, executive leadership and more. These offerings help local news outlets maximize Chicagoland residents’ access to the information they need to be civically engaged.

The deadline to register is 11:59 p.m. CDT on Wednesday, May 20.

Training schedule: 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. CDT June 4-5.

Technology

Columbia Bank Receives 2026 Best Bank Honors from Crisil Coalition Greenwich

Published

14 minutes ago

April 22, 2026

TACOMA, Wash., April 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Columbia Bank, a subsidiary of Columbia Banking System (Nasdaq: COLB), today announced it has been recognized by Crisil Coalition Greenwich with two regional Best Bank Awards for excellence in middle market banking. More than 500 banks worldwide were evaluated across small business and middle market categories, with only 47 banks receiving honors.

Crisil Coalition Greenwich recognized Columbia Bank in the following middle market banking categories for the U.S. West region:

Best Bank – Satisfaction in Cash Management for Middle Market Banking in the U.S. (West)Best Bank – Satisfaction with Relationship Manager for Middle Market Banking in the U.S. (West)

Source: Coalition Greenwich Voice of Client – 2025 U.S. Commercial Banking Study

Best Bank Awards are based on extensive client feedback. The 2026 middle market recognitions draw from more than 11,000 interviews with U.S.-based businesses generating $10 million to $500 million in annual sales.

“Columbia Bank’s recognition by Crisil Coalition Greenwich as a 2026 Best Bank is especially meaningful since it’s the result of customer testimonials. It reflects the priority we place on supporting middle market companies, as well as the dedication and expertise our bankers bring to the table every day for our customers,” said Tory Nixon, Columbia Bank President. “It’s a privilege to support so many outstanding middle market enterprises across the West, and we will continue to earn their trust and confidence.”

Additional 2026 Accolades
The Coalition Greenwich awards add to a growing list of honors Columbia Bank has received this year, including:

Forbes: America’s Best BanksGlobal Finance: Best Bank for Small and Midsize Enterprises, West Global Finance: Best Trade Finance Partner, West

About Columbia Bank
Columbia Bank is the largest bank headquartered in the Northwest and one of the largest banks headquartered in the West with offices in Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Texas, Utah, and Washington. Columbia Bank combines the resources, sophistication, and expertise of a national bank with a commitment to deliver superior, personalized service. The bank supports consumers and businesses through a full suite of services, including retail and commercial banking, Small Business Administration lending, institutional and corporate banking, and equipment leasing. Columbia Bank customers also have access to comprehensive investment and wealth management expertise as well as healthcare and private banking through Columbia Wealth Management. Columbia Bank is a subsidiary of Tacoma, Washington-based Columbia Banking System, Inc. (Nasdaq: COLB).

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SOURCE Columbia Banking System, Inc.

Technology

McLuck Sweepstakes Casino Celebrates 3rd Birthday with Week-Long Rewards

Published

14 minutes ago

April 22, 2026

McLuck Sweepstakes Casino announces its third-anniversary celebration, featuring community events and rewards from April 22nd through April 30th. The milestone will be marked by themed influencer live streams, and limited-time offers across McLuck’s official channels.

DOUGLAS, Isle of Man, April 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — McLuck, a premier online Sweepstakes casino in the US, is marking its third year with a week-long anniversary celebration. From April 22nd through April 30th, the social casino will host a variety of commemorative activities, including influencer giveaways and exclusive offers to recognize the milestone.

“Turning three is a major milestone, and we wanted to celebrate it alongside the players who made our growth possible,” said Joerg Nottebaum, spokesperson for McLuck. “Through April 30th, we are offering themed creator streams and exclusive rewards to mark this occasion with our community.”

Since its launch in 2023, McLuck has established a significant presence in the US Sweepstakes casino market, known for its extensive library of titles including online slots, live casino games, casual titles, and engaging seasonal offers. This anniversary week is designed to acknowledge the platform’s community growth through interactive content and birthday-themed rewards.

The anniversary celebration includes the following highlights:

Birthday-Themed Rewards: Throughout the week, the official McLuck website will feature limited-time bundles featuring Gold Coins, along with FREE Sweepstakes Coins and Free Spins.Influencer Live Streams: McLuck partner influencers will host custom birthday-themed sessions. These live streams will feature exclusive giveaways, providing viewers with opportunities to receive Free Spins and FREE Sweepstakes Coins.McLuck Blog Promo Code: The official McLuck blog will serve as a central resource, providing updates, and a unique anniversary promo code for blog readers.Social Media Challenges: McLuck’s verified channels on Instagram and Facebook will host anniversary-themed competitions and offers, bringing the party to the wider Sweepstakes casino community.

The celebrations are available to both new and existing players via the official McLuck website. For the latest updates and to stay informed on the week’s activities, players can engage with the official social channels and blog.

About McLuck

Established in 2023, McLuck is a leading social and Sweepstakes casino platform serving players across the United States and Canada. Dedicated to providing a premier free-to-play experience, McLuck offers a vast library of over 1,000 slots and live dealer games from top-tier providers including 3 Oaks Gaming, NetEnt, and Playson.

McLuck allows users to enjoy casino-style entertainment with no purchase necessary, while offering the opportunity to win real prizes. McLuck is committed to responsible social gaming, innovation, and player satisfaction.

For more information, visit www.mcluck.com.

No purchase necessary. 21+. Void where prohibited by law. See Terms of Service.

Media Contact

Joerg Nottebaum, McLuck, 350 54 093 606, pr@mcluck.com, https://www.mcluck.com/

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SOURCE McLuck