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Butterfly Data wins SAS Hackathon with tool to fight misinformation

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Powered by SAS Viya, it helps decision makers identify trustworthy data

CARY, N.C., May 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The flood of misinformation and disinformation is becoming a major problem, often negatively influencing decisions and causing harm. The overall winner of the 2024 SAS Hackathon is working to address this problem.

“In a world where data can shape decisions with real-world consequences, it is essential to ensure its reliability.”

Team Butterflies from Butterfly Data, a SAS Partner, has developed an AI-powered tool to help analysts and decision makers assess data sources for their reliability and credibility. Based in the UK, Butterfly Data is a diverse team of experienced technology consultants specializing in data science and data management solutions that help organizations turn data into strategic assets. SAS is a leader in data and AI.

The SAS Hackathon-winning solution uses advanced natural language processing (NLP) and classification models to check the trustworthiness of open source data. With Butterfly’s tool, organizations can verify data sources, spot unreliable information and ensure the use of ethical information to make decisions.

“In a world where data can shape decisions with real-world consequences, it is essential to ensure its reliability. Combating misinformation with trusted data leads to better and more transparent decisions,” said Luke Coldridge, Senior Consultant at Butterfly Data and Team Leader for Team Butterflies. “We believe this tool can be a force for good, helping combat disinformation and promote a more informed world.”

Powered by Viya
To create the solution, Team Butterflies used SAS’ data and AI platform, SAS® Viya®, as well as SAS Viya Workbench and SAS Viya Copilot. They also leveraged open source tools like Git, Python and Visual Studio (VS) Code.

Released in 2024, SAS Viya Workbench is a cloud-based coding environment purpose-built for developers, data scientists and modelers. It significantly improves speed and efficiency and makes it easier to conduct data management, analysis and model development using SAS or Python code, through VS Code or Jupyter Notebook.

Built on Microsoft Azure AI Foundry, SAS Viya Copilot is an AI-driven conversational assistant embedded directly into the SAS Viya platform. It gives developers, data scientists and business users a powerful personal assistant that accelerates analytical, business and industry tasks. SAS Viya Copilot is currently available via an invitation-only private preview, with general availability coming later this year.

Detecting disinformation
Created using Agile software development principles, Team Butterflies’ solution uses SAS Viya for advanced analytics and machine learning, with Viya Workbench and Viya Copilot accelerating model development and integrating large language model (LLM) technology.

Open source tools supported flexible coding and seamless collaboration, while the Cloud Analytics Services (CAS) data-processing engine within Viya enabled centralized data management and real-time dashboards. SAS Information Catalog APIs further enhanced transparency by tracing data lineage and quality, boosting user confidence in the insights delivered.

SAS Hackathon
The 2024 SAS Hackathon boasted 1,731 registrants from more than 70 countries. This led to an all-time high of 145 approved teams that participated in the month-long hack, supported by 110 SAS mentors. SAS produces the annual SAS Hackathon, which was sponsored by long-time SAS Partners Microsoft and Intel.

During the SAS Hackathon, teams of data scientists, business analysts, technology enthusiasts and students come together – often virtually across continents – to network, learn from each other and from a SAS mentor, and experiment with new technologies that spark innovation and improve lives.

“Team Butterflies and all SAS Hackathon teams clearly demonstrate the potent combination of curiosity, innovation and AI technology to address big problems in business and society,” said Einar Halvorsen, Global Hackathon Producer at SAS. “As a caterpillar transforms into something more, Team Butterflies’ AI-powered tool transforms data into better insights and trustworthy decisions.”

The announcement of Team Butterflies as overall SAS Hackathon winner was made this month at SAS Innovate, the SAS data and AI technology conference.

In November, Team Butterflies was named a 2024 SAS Hackathon winner in four categories, including EMEA region, Models technology, and Channel Readiness and Trustworthy AI special awards.

More than 100 judges participated in the evaluation of SAS Hackathon projects.

About SAS
SAS is a global leader in data and AI. With SAS software and industry-specific solutions, organizations transform data into trusted decisions. SAS gives you THE POWER TO KNOW®.

SAS and all other SAS Institute Inc. product or service names are registered trademarks or trademarks of SAS Institute Inc. in the USA and other countries. ® indicates USA registration. Other brand and product names are trademarks of their respective companies. Copyright © 2025 SAS Institute Inc. All rights reserved.

Editorial Contact:
Mike Nemecek
SAS
mike.nemecek@sas.com
919-531-5140
sas.com/news

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/butterfly-data-wins-sas-hackathon-with-tool-to-fight-misinformation-302459150.html

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Carbide Manufacturing Expert Carl Ciesla Shares How Beginners Can Build Strong Foundations in HelloNation

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SANBORN, N.Y., June 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — What does it take to get started in machining with the right foundation? In an article published by HelloNation, Carl Ciesla of Lakeshore Carbide in Sanborn, New York, explains how beginners can prepare for long-term success in the trade. He emphasizes that machining is more than operating equipment; it requires precision, problem-solving, and a solid grasp of both theory and practice.

Ciesla notes that learning to read blueprints and understand tolerances is one of the first steps for new machinists. These skills ensure that each part can be accurately produced and verified. Knowing how exact a measurement must be — and how to consistently meet that requirement — lays the foundation for quality work.

The article explains that hands-on practice with measurement tools is equally important. Micrometers, calipers, and indicators allow machinists to measure down to the thousandth of an inch. Mastering these tools ensures that accuracy begins at the bench, not just at the machine.

Ciesla highlights that tool geometry is another essential area of learning. The shape and angle of cutting flutes directly influence chip evacuation, tool engagement, and part quality. Beginners who understand these details gain an advantage when choosing and using carbide end mills and inserts for different jobs.

He also stresses the value of manual machining experience. By working with lathes and mills, apprentices develop an understanding of speeds, feeds, and tool angles. This manual training provides the background needed to troubleshoot effectively when transitioning to CNC machines.

The article points out that shops look for machinists who combine technical knowledge with practical skills. Those who understand both the “why” and the “how” are better equipped to solve problems and improve efficiency on the shop floor.

Ciesla emphasizes that machining is not a skill learned overnight. It is a lifelong craft shaped by curiosity, precision, and practice. Developing strong habits early on helps new machinists grow into experts who continuously refine their techniques.

The path into machining, according to Ciesla, is about more than learning machines. It is about cultivating craftsmanship, practicing patience, and building the mindset needed to succeed in a career defined by exacting standards and continuous improvement.

The article, Getting Started in Machining, shows how Carl Ciesla of Lakeshore Carbide offers practical guidance for those entering the field. His perspective in HelloNation outlines the key steps and habits that prepare new machinists for long-term success.

About HelloNation
HelloNation is a premier media platform that connects readers with trusted professionals and businesses across various industries. Through its innovative “edvertising” approach that blends educational content and storytelling, HelloNation delivers expert-driven articles that inform, inspire, and empower. Covering topics from home improvement and health to business strategy and lifestyle, HelloNation highlights leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/carbide-manufacturing-expert-carl-ciesla-shares-how-beginners-can-build-strong-foundations-in-hellonation-302804920.html

SOURCE HelloNation

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Honest Medical CEO Responds to Medline Facility Fire, Confirms Inventory Secured for California Customers

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Following the devastating Medline distribution center fire in Tracy, CA, Honest Medical CEO Mike Greenan went on NBC News to confirm that inventory secured at alternative facilities will keep customer orders on track.

OCEANSIDE, Calif., June 18, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Honest Medical (HonestMed.com), a fast-growing ecommerce site offering thousands of essential healthcare products, is assuring customers that the recent fire at a primary Medline distribution hub will not significantly impact the availability of critical medical supplies. Honest Medical CEO Mike Greenan addressed the public on NBC News to assure healthcare facilities and other customers that robust contingency plans are actively in place.

It’s great to get this commitment from Medline so that our customers in other regions don’t need to worry. There may be a minor logistical adjustment of one or two days, but that is the absolute extent of it.

Medline, which describes itself as the largest supplier of medical and surgical supplies in the world, manufactures thousands of medical supplies that are essential for both healthcare facilities and in-home caregivers. This fire impacted one of Medline’s largest distribution hubs, leaving many healthcare facilities in the San Francisco Bay Area and other parts of California concerned that critical supplies may be seriously delayed. The California Hospital Association, which represents close to 400 hospitals throughout the state, reported receiving many inquiries as a result of the fire, demonstrating the high level of concern.

Greenan was able to confirm that Honest Medical received firm assurances from Medline that inventory at other facilities – particularly a warehouse in Temecula, Southern California – have the resources to make sure pending orders are filled and that Northern California customers receive the supplies they need. Greenan said, “It’s great to get this commitment from Medline so that our customers in other regions don’t need to worry. There may be a minor logistical adjustment of one or two days, but that is the absolute extent of it.”

While Medline has not yet released an official timeline for rebuilding the damaged distribution hub, local authorities and industry experts emphasize that its strategic location makes a full restoration likely. In the interim, Honest Medical’s secondary supply channels remain fully operational to prevent any disruption to patient care.

Watch the report on the fire and Honest Medical CEO Mike Greenan’s comments here.

About Honest Medical

Honest Medical is a fast-growing ecommerce source for thousands of health and wellness products. Honest Medical empowers families, caregivers and institutions to shop across a broad range of essential healthcare products addressing critical issues such as mobility, nutrition, incontinence and more. In addition, the Honest Ideas blog offers helpful information and insights covering a range of topics relevant to those with disabilities, seniors, caregivers and loved ones. With its primary focus on customer satisfaction, HonestMed maintains a team of expert customer care specialists and offers its essential health and wellness products at affordable prices and with speedy delivery. Follow Honest Medical on Facebook and Instagram.

Media Contact

Jon Ramirez, Honest Medical, 1 833-933-2323, jon.ramirez@honestmed.com, www.honestmed.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prweb.com/releases/honest-medical-ceo-responds-to-medline-facility-fire-confirms-inventory-secured-for-california-customers-302804793.html

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Advent Resources Expands Across Texas as Dealers Face Rising Fraud, Compliance Pressures, and Operational Complexity

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One connected platform helps Texas dealerships reduce risk, eliminate friction, and move deals faster.

FORT WORTH, Texas, June 18, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Advent Resources is expanding its reach across Texas to help dealerships simplify and strengthen the car deal, as fraud, compliance, and disconnected technology continue to create operational challenges for automotive retailers.

Dealers are managing more systems, regulations, customer expectations, and risk. The answer isn’t adding more technology. It’s about creating one workflow, one source of truth, and one platform to run their entire sales department.

For over 30 years, Advent Resources has helped dealers streamline operations by bringing identity verification, deal structuring, lender approvals, contracting, compliance, and funding into a single connected platform.

Today, this goal is more important than ever.

“Dealers are managing more systems, regulations, customer expectations, and risk,” said Ben Gill, CEO of Advent Resources. “The answer isn’t adding more technology. It’s about creating one workflow, one source of truth, and one platform to run their entire sales department.”

Auto fraud continues to grow while dealerships face increasing pressure to maintain compliance, protect customer information, and improve operations.

Auto fraud losses are projected to exceed $9 billion annually.

45% of dealerships report losses between $10,000 – $20,000 from a single fraudulent transaction.

Many dealerships recover less than 50% of fraud-related losses once a deal has been funded.

At the same time, many stores still rely on multiple disconnected systems to complete a single transaction, creating duplicate work, wasted clicks and opportunities for expensive errors.

Advent addresses these challenges by connecting every stage of the deal into one workflow, helping dealerships:

Structure, approve, contract, and fund deals in one system

Reduce hundreds of unnecessary clicks and eliminate duplicate data entry

Verify customer identities and collect required documents in real time

Strengthen compliance through integrated audit trails and automated workflows

Improve profitability by accelerating deals and reducing delays

Maintain one consistent source of truth from lead to funded deal

What’s more, Advent provides advanced AI-powered identity verification to reveal potential fraud risks earlier in the sales process, before issues become costly problems.

“Fraud and compliance issues rarely show up early,” Gill said. “They happen after the fact, when a dealership is trying to unwind a bad deal. The best way to reduce risk is to mitigate it head on at the beginning of the process.”

Advent’s commitment to improving the dealership experience extends beyond the sales department and into the showroom with Advent Connect.

Designed for both customers and staff, Advent Connect guides shoppers through the entire purchase process – from vehicle selection and payment options to financing, protection products, compliance documents, and final delivery. With every step of the transaction in a single customer-facing experience, dealerships eliminate friction, improve transparency, and create a faster, more engaging purchase.

Advent’s workflow helps customers make informed decisions while ensuring every profit opportunity is optimized throughout the transaction. The result is a better experience for customers, greater efficiency for teams, higher profitability for the dealership, and a modern retail process built around collaboration, transparency, and speed.

About Advent Resources

Advent Resources provides software that powers the financial layer of the car deal. For more than 30 years, the company has supported thousands of dealerships across the United States, including many of the industry’s top-performing dealer groups. By bringing identity verification, deal structuring, lender approvals, contracting, compliance and funding into one system, its digital car deal platform, Advent Advantage, helps dealerships complete deals faster while reducing risk and improving operational efficiency.

For more information, visit www.adventresources.com.

Media Contact

Jennifer Lange, Advent Resources, 1 9494603408, jenniferl@adventresources.com, www.adventresources.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prweb.com/releases/advent-resources-expands-across-texas-as-dealers-face-rising-fraud-compliance-pressures-and-operational-complexity-302804921.html

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