Technology

Shipman & Goodwin Secures Order Certifying Class of Former Barbour Gardens Tenants in Dispute Over Substandard Living Conditions

Published

12 months ago

May 8, 2025

HARTFORD, Conn., May 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Shipman & Goodwin LLP has secured an order certifying a class of former residents of Barbour Gardens, once a publicly subsidized housing complex situated in Hartford’s North End. After regulators shuttered the complex based on deficient inspection scores and associated safety violations, several tenants filed suit for the proposed class against the complex’s owner, its manager, and certain of the owner’s members.

As defined by the Superior Court for the Complex Litigation Docket in Hartford, the certified class comprises all tenants who resided at Barbour Gardens at any time from January 1, 2015, through when the last tenants were evacuated in 2019.

As the class-certification decision recounted, before a late 2018 federal inspection on short notice, one defendant’s “employee predicted that Barbour Gardens ‘will come back as possibly the lowest score ever received.’ This prediction proved accurate: Barbour Gardens received a score of 9c—the lowest score received by any project in Connecticut’s history. During the inspection of 20 rental units, 138 health and safety deficiencies were observed, including electrical hazards, inoperable windows and doors, mold and mildew, water damage, and a bedbug infestation.” This inspection report extrapolated that the whole complex had “a total of 423 health and safety deficiencies.”

As the Court’s decision further noted, “defendants did not correct any of the deficiencies documented,” leading the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to cancel Barbour Gardens’ participation in the federal project‑based rental‑assistance program. “Given the limited number of housing units that qualify for federal subsidies,” however, “the low-income residents at Barbour Gardens struggled to find affordable housing. Many residents who had nowhere else to go were forced to remain at Barbour Gardens, despite the deplorable living conditions.”

As alleged, the crisis culminated in June 2019—when, as the Court’s decision recited, “three feet of standing wastewater flooded into the basement of one of Barbour Gardens’ four buildings. The plumbing system pumped the sewage from one building into another. As a result, the city evacuated the families who had remained at Barbour Gardens while awaiting the opportunity to transition to safe and habitable affordable housing. HUD deemed the property too unsafe for residents to return, and these families were permanently displaced.”

The quoted passages from the class-certification decision incorporated the Connecticut Supreme Court’s description of the evidence in an earlier interlocutory appeal, which set the stage for the more recent certification order.

Weighing this and other evidence, and the parties’ arguments, the Superior Court granted class certification on plaintiffs’ claims for breach of contract, unjust enrichment and violation of the Connecticut Unfair Trade Practices Act, arising from defects relating to Barbour Gardens’ common areas. The certification order specifically allows plaintiffs to pursue classwide remedies of disgorgement of rental or other income, punitive damages and attorney’s fees.

The case team includes Partners Eric Del Pozo (who argued the motion and preceding appeal), Mark Ostrowski, Joette Katz and Jim Bergenn, with Associates Sarah Dlugoszewski and Sarah Niemiroski. As class counsel, Shipman & Goodwin is proud to have achieved this significant milestone and will continue to seek appropriate justice for the tenant class.

About Shipman & Goodwin LLP
Shipman’s value lies in its commitment to its clients, to the profession, and to the community. With more than 140 lawyers in offices throughout Connecticut and New York, the full-service law firm serves the needs of local, regional, national, and international clients that include public and private companies, educational institutions, governmental entities, non-profit organizations, and individuals. Shipman is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion within the firm, the legal profession, and the community. Shipman has participated in Diversity Lab’s Mansfield Rule since 2019 and earned Mansfield Certification Plus status for the fifth consecutive year in 2024. Shipman was also recognized by Women Inc. Magazine as one of the “Top 100 Law Firms for Women.” The National Law Journal also ranked Shipman as the eighth most inclusive firm for women in their 2021 national survey. For more information, visit www.shipmangoodwin.com.

Contact:
Jennifer Stokes (860) 251-5014 | jstokes@goodwin.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/shipman–goodwin-secures-order-certifying-class-of-former-barbour-gardens-tenants-in-dispute-over-substandard-living-conditions-302450311.html

SOURCE Shipman & Goodwin, LLP

Technology

Chief Futurist Ian Beacraft to Keynote at Info-Tech LIVE 2026 in Las Vegas on Designing AI-Ready Organizations

Published

50 minutes ago

April 24, 2026

AI is reshaping how value is created across the enterprise, but many organizations are still operating with models built for a pre-AI world. As a result, technology adoption alone is not translating into sustained impact. At the highly anticipated IT conference Info-Tech LIVE 2026 in Las Vegas, June 9–11 at the Bellagio, Info-Tech Research Group will feature keynote insights from Ian Beacraft, CEO and Chief Futurist at Signal and Cipher. Beacraft will share with thousands of CIOs, industry experts, and analysts in attendance how IT leaders can redesign work to better align with the demands of AI-driven change.

At Info-Tech LIVE 2026 in Las Vegas, Attendees Will Explore:

Why AI initiatives often fail to deliver value when applied to outdated ways of workingHow operating models, workflows, and decision-making must change to support AI at scaleWhere AI is being misapplied and limiting its impactWhat it takes to design organizations that can adapt alongside AI

LAS VEGAS, April 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ – Info-Tech Research Group is set to bring together thousands of CIOs, CTOs, CISOs, and IT leaders at its upcoming flagship annual IT conference, Info-Tech LIVE 2026 in Las Vegas. Taking place June 9–11 at the Bellagio, the 2026 program will guide attendees on how they can adapt their design and execution models to fully realize value from AI. As part of the agenda, the global research and advisory firm has announced that Ian Beacraft, CEO and Chief Futurist at Signal and Cipher, will deliver a mainstage keynote on how leaders can redesign workflows, team structures, and value creation models to better align with the demands of AI-driven change.

Known for making emerging technologies understandable and actionable, Beacraft has advised global enterprises, including Nike, Google, and Microsoft, on how to turn AI from a technical capability into a driver of performance, reimagine how work is designed, and prepare teams for the future of work.

As AI capabilities continue to expand, Info-Tech has been highlighting in its recent research and reports that expectations around how work is executed and how value is delivered are shifting just as quickly. Existing processes, team structures, and decision models were not designed for continuous, technology-driven change, creating friction as leaders attempt to scale AI effectively.

“Many organizations are trying to apply AI within working models where it isn’t well suited,” says Info-Tech Research Group’s Chief Research Officer, Gord Harrison. “Through Ian Beacraft’s keynote and the broader agenda at Info-Tech LIVE 2026 in Las Vegas, leaders will better understand how rethinking decision-making and execution can help them truly get value from AI.”

By bringing together research, external perspectives, and peer dialogue, Info-Tech LIVE 2026 in Las Vegas will help IT leaders understand what it takes to apply AI more effectively across the enterprise. Attendees will leave with a stronger sense of how to support meaningful change in the way work is led, managed, and delivered.

Further updates on Info-Tech LIVE will be announced in the coming weeks. Follow Info-Tech Research Group on LinkedIn and X for more event-related news from the firm.

Media Passes for Info-Tech LIVE 2026 in Las Vegas
Journalists, podcasters, and influencers are invited to attend Info-Tech LIVE 2026 in Las Vegas. The event provides access to forward-looking research, exclusive interviews with Info-Tech’s analysts and executives, and on-the-ground perspectives from CIOs responding to emerging priorities.

Media professionals interested in applying for complimentary media passes can contact pr@infotech.com to request access and cover the latest IT leadership and strategy discussions from the event.

Exhibitor Opportunities at Info-Tech LIVE 2026 in Las Vegas
Exhibitors are also invited to be part of Info-Tech LIVE and showcase their products and services to thousands of highly engaged technology executives. With 70% of attendees identified as decision makers and 1 in 3 at the C-level, the event offers an all-access pass and opportunities to meaningfully connect with senior technology leaders.

For more information about becoming an Info-Tech LIVE exhibitor, please contact exhibitorservices@infotech.com

About Info-Tech Research Group
Info-Tech Research Group is the “get things done” partner for over 30,000 IT, HR, and marketing leaders worldwide. The fastest growing research and advisory firm, Info-Tech enables leaders to make well-informed decisions and transform their organizations through AI, strategic foresight, step-by-step methodologies, practical tools, industry-leading advisory, and training programs. For nearly 30 years, tens of thousands of private and public organizations have trusted Info-Tech to lead their most important initiatives through periods of change and deliver outcomes that truly matter.

To learn more about Info-Tech’s HR research and advisory services, visit McLean & Company, and for data-driven software buying insights and vendor evaluations, visit the firm’s SoftwareReviews platform.

Media professionals can register for unrestricted access to research across IT, HR, and software and hundreds of industry analysts through the firm’s Media Insiders program. To gain access, contact pr@infotech.com.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/chief-futurist-ian-beacraft-to-keynote-at-info-tech-live-2026-in-las-vegas-on-designing-ai-ready-organizations-302752989.html

SOURCE Info-Tech Research Group

Technology

Trace Systems Wins $64,000,000 U.S Army Follow-On Contract to Deliver Enhanced Deployable Communications Capabilities

Published

50 minutes ago

April 24, 2026

TAMPA, Fla., April 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Trace Systems Inc. (Trace) has been awarded a five‑year, $64,000,000 follow‑on task order under the U.S. Army’s Global Tactical Advanced Communications Systems and Services (GTACS II) contract vehicle to continue delivering critical deployable communications capabilities and services support for U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) and Western Hemisphere Command-Forward (WHC-FORWARD).

This award extends Trace’s longstanding support for USNORTHCOM’s Deployable Communications Capabilities Systems (DCCS) program, which provides the deployable communications backbone required for disaster response, and mission partner coordination across the USNORTHCOM area of responsibility (AOR). Trace continues to support this vital effort by providing technical support and integration for vehicle mounted mobile command platforms and SATCOM, radio, and other deployable communications systems.

Under the new task order, Trace will continue providing comprehensive services, including system design and modifications, technical refresh, unified communications, satellite and terrestrial transport support, cybersecurity compliance, vehicle integration, and full lifecycle sustainment of DCCS assets. This award highlights Trace’s expertise in modernizing, integrating, and maintaining deployable communications solutions, and supporting operational readiness and mission response for military operations, civil support operations, and exercises.

“USNORTHCOM and WHC-FORWARD’s missions demand a rapid response team capable of delivering mobile, interoperable communications between military forces and civilian response organizations for any mission or disaster relief effort,” said Kenneth Hilton, COO of Trace Systems. “Trace Systems is resolute in supporting a true ‘no fail’ mission and is honored to have supported the DCCS program over the past four years. We look forward to continuing to deliver mission critical communications and emergency response capabilities for USNORTHCOM and WHC-FORWARD.”

#TraceSystems #NORTHCOM #DeployableCommunications #MissionModernization #SATCOM

About Trace Systems
Trace Systems delivers technology-enabled, integrated multi-domain mission solutions, combining secure satellite communications, edge computing, digital modernization, and cyber-resilient architectures worldwide. From orbit to edge, Trace builds the backbone for tomorrow’s defense enterprise.

For more information, visit www.tracesystems.com/

For media inquiries, please contact:
Email: mediarelations@tracesystems.com
Phone: 813-793-7101

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/trace-systems-wins-64-000-000-us-army-follow-on-contract-to-deliver-enhanced-deployable-communications-capabilities-302753048.html

SOURCE Trace Systems Inc

Technology

Driving the Future of Mobility with Technology: Chery at Beijing Auto Show 2026

Published

50 minutes ago

April 24, 2026

WUHU, China, April 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Beijing Auto Show 2026 opened on April 24, bringing together global automotive brands and advanced technologies. As a key barometer of the industry, the show serves as a platform for innovation and exchange. Chery Group appeared with its full brand lineup, including CHERY, EXEED, iCAUR, OMODA & JAECOO, and LEPAS. A total of 15 models made their global debut. The event welcomed over 4,000 guests from more than 100 countries, setting a new record for Chery in both scale and international reach.

At the show, Chery presented breakthrough technologies and a forward-looking strategy. Built on a global brand ecosystem, core technology development, and new energy innovation, the company demonstrated capabilities reshaping industry competition and setting new benchmarks for value creation.

Deepening Global Layout: A Multi-Brand Portfolio Reshaping the Industry Landscape

With a five-brand portfolio developed through years of overseas experience, Chery has formed a multi-scenario ecosystem. Each brand targets specific segments, shifting from broad coverage to precise positioning. Key debuts included Tiggo V, ES GT, EX8, OMODA 4, right-hand-drive V27, and L6 BEV, covering family, premium, and youth mobility needs. The brands operate in synergy, sharing resources and technologies to drive Chery’s shift from scale expansion to value upgrading.

Advanced Architecture Redefines the Upper Limit of Experience: Digital Chassis Breaks the Boundaries of Smart Mobility

Chery showcased next-generation architecture innovations. The Feiyu Digital Intelligent Chassis i integrates steer-by-wire and brake-by-wire, enabling 90 km/h moose test performance and zero-radius tank turns. The GAIA All-Domain System combines amphibious mobility with satellite communication, redefining the vehicle as an all-scenario mobility terminal. The industry-first full-domain 48V system improves efficiency by 15% and meets ASIL D safety standards.

Through continuous breakthroughs, Chery is evolving from a technology follower into a standards setter in global smart mobility.

Full-Chain Energy Efficiency Management Enables Technology Accessibility: System Innovation Addressing Global Mobility Challenges

Chery introduced a full life-cycle energy efficiency system. The KunPeng High Efficiency Engine achieves 48.57% thermal efficiency and 4.0 kWh/L conversion. The DHT360 hybrid system delivers up to 360 kW, enabling full-speed electric driving. The Rhino Battery offers high safety and fast charging, reaching 80% in 12 minutes. The system supports a more efficient and sustainable mobility future.

Website: https://www.cheryinternational.com

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2965344/Image1.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/driving-the-future-of-mobility-with-technology-chery-at-beijing-auto-show-2026-302753066.html