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A Field of Their Own: UAE Embassy, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Philadelphia Parks & Recreation Bring the Spirit of Soccer to Conestoga Park in West Philadelphia

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Brand-new, state-of-the-art soccer field now open year-round at Conestoga Park

Project includes ongoing youth soccer programming through the West Philadelphia Soccer Academy

PHILADELPHIA, June 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Today, UAE Ambassador to the United States Yousef Al Otaiba joined Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) CEO Madeline Bell, Philadelphia Parks Commissioner Susan Slawson, Councilmember Curtis Jones Jr. and West Philadelphia Soccer Academy (WPSA) to celebrate the completion of a brand-new, year-round soccer field at Conestoga Park in West Philadelphia, made possible through a contribution from the UAE Embassy and CHOP.

“As Philadelphia welcomes the world for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the UAE is proud to support the next generation of players right here in this city,” said Ambassador Al Otaiba. “This field at Conestoga Park is more than a gift of infrastructure. It is an expression of the values we share: that sport builds character and that children deserve safe spaces to grow. The friendship between the UAE and the United States is best measured in what we build together.” 

“The Conestoga Soccer Field is a unique example of how global collaboration can benefit local communities — and the children who live in them,” said CHOP CEO Madeline Bell. “CHOP is proud to be part of the Philadelphia community and thrilled that our collaboration with the UAE and City of Philadelphia made this possible.”

“Conestoga Park is an important community asset for West Philadelphia,” said Commissioner Slawson. “This project, made possible through the support of the UAE Embassy and CHOP, reflects the commitment of Mayor Parker and the City of Philadelphia to investing in young people and expanding access to quality recreation, helping more youth learn, play, and advance both on and off the field.”

“Every child watching the World Cup in Philadelphia right now is dreaming of playing the beautiful game. Since 1994, WPSA has been the only soccer club in West Philadelphia, and for the first time, we have a home field worthy of those dreams. Safe, accessible and free to use, this field tells every young person in this neighborhood that the World Cup is not just something you watch — it is something you can be part of,” said Sylvester Corbie, WPSA Director and Head Coach.

“The 4th District continues to grow as a destination for recreational opportunity, and this new field at Conestoga Park is a tremendous addition,” said Councilmember Jones Jr. “I am grateful to CHOP and the UAE Embassy for their investment in our community and our children.”

CHOP has a long-standing relationship with the UAE, formalized through agreements with major UAE health entities. That partnership spans direct clinical care for Emirati children, medical education, joint research and specialist training programs, all aimed at advancing pediatric expertise and healthcare across the region.

The new field at Conestoga Park is the latest in a series of UAE Embassy-supported soccer fields built in underserved communities across the United States. The program has already provided thousands of children with access to quality playing fields and free coaching in Boston, New York City (Harlem, Brooklyn and the Bronx), Miami, East Los Angeles, Chicago, Dallas, Cleveland, Atlantic City, Asbury Park and Washington, DC.

ABOUT THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES:
The UAE is a source of stability, tolerance, innovation, and growth in the Arabian Gulf and around the globe. The United States and the UAE are reliable allies, with historical and present-day shared security and economic interests. In fact, the UAE is the largest export market for US goods in the Middle East and more US naval vessels visit UAE ports than any other ports outside the United States. The United States and the UAE also enjoy growing social and cultural ties, and many US institutions in education, healthcare and the arts have formed collaborative partnerships with UAE entities. For more information: https://www.uae-embassy.org/.

ABOUT CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL OF PHILADELPHIA: 
A non-profit, charitable organization, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia was founded in 1855 as the nation’s first pediatric hospital. Through its long-standing commitment to providing exceptional patient care, training new generations of pediatric healthcare professionals, and pioneering major research initiatives, the hospital has fostered many discoveries that have benefited children worldwide. Its pediatric research program is among the largest in the country. The institution has a well-established history of providing advanced pediatric care close to home through its CHOP Care Network, which includes more than 50 primary care practices, specialty care and surgical centers, urgent care centers, and community hospital alliances throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey. CHOP also operates the Middleman Family Pavilion and its dedicated pediatric emergency department in King of Prussia, the Behavioral Health and Crisis Center (including a 24/7 Crisis Response Center), and the Center for Advanced Behavioral Healthcare, a mental health outpatient facility. Its unique family-centered care and public service programs have brought Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia recognition as a leading advocate for children and adolescents. For more information, visit https://www.chop.edu.

ABOUT PHILADELPHIA PARKS & RECREATION:
Philadelphia Parks & Recreation (PPR) advances the prosperity of the city and the progress of its residents through intentional and sustained stewardship of nearly 10,200 acres of public land and waterways as well as through hundreds of safe, stimulating recreation, environmental and cultural centers. PPR promotes the well-being and growth of the city’s residents by connecting them to the natural world around them, to each other, and to fun, physical and social opportunities. PPR is responsible for the upkeep of historically significant Philadelphia events and specialty venues and works collaboratively with communities and organizations in leading capital projects and the introduction of inventive programming. To learn more about Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, visit us at www.phila.gov/parksandrec, and follow @philaparkandrec on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Contact: Dan Alt
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
(631) 879-3615
altd@chop.edu

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SOURCE Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia

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Americas Cardroom’s OSS XL Generates $7.2M in Four Days

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The opening 93 tournaments draw 62,847 entries as 33 events exceed guarantees.

SAN JOSE, Costa Rica, Sept. 11, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Americas Cardroom’s Online Super Series XL generated $7,216,985 in prize pools and recorded 62,847 entries during its opening four days, excluding entries from tournament flights.

From Sept. 6-9, 93 tournaments ran and the completed numbered schedule reached OSS XL #70. Thirty-three tournaments exceeded their guarantees by a combined $217,170.

OSS XL #13 produced the largest prize pool. The $630 buy-in High Roller drew 1,118 entries and turned its $600,000 guarantee into a $670,800 prize pool. BADGERING won $130,210 for first place.

The $2,650 OSS XL #16 also topped its $500,000 guarantee, drawing 203 entries for $507,500. After a final-table deal, NewYorkMidgets was listed first for $95,312, KevinParCoeur second for $93,875 and Olivander1 third for $87,459.

At the lower buy-in level, the $16.50 OSS XL #11L Sunday Splash produced the series’ biggest field to date. Its 4,752 entries came from 3,024 unique players, and lukewarmwater earned $10,953 for the win.

In Mystery Bounty event OSS XL #12, the player finishing 43rd collected the tournament’s $15,120 top bounty.

Leaderboard competition is underway across High, Medium and Low divisions, with more than $60,000 in added cash and tournament tickets available. GROOTHEDEGEN leads the High standings with 2,381.59 points, while FEEDTHEPENGUIN tops Medium with 599.85 points.

Four multi-flight events with $2.225 million in combined guarantees are underway. The first of three Main Events begins this Sunday. The event guarantees $500,000 with a $66 direct buy-in and satellites from $6.60.

OSS XL runs through Sept. 29 with 336 events and more than $50 million guaranteed. Upcoming tournaments, buy-ins and start times are listed on the promotion page.

About Americas Cardroom

Americas Cardroom is one of the world’s leading online poker destinations, serving players since 2001. Known for major tournament series, innovative promotions, and a commitment to the poker community, the company is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2026 while continuing to expand its tournament offerings and deliver world-class online poker experiences to players across the globe.

Media Contact:
Adam Neal
Americas Cardroom Pros Manager
Email: 422447@email4pr.com 
Phone: +44 7845 582487

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/americas-cardrooms-oss-xl-generates-7-2m-in-four-days-302875989.html

SOURCE Americas Cardroom

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Ink Different Tattoos Announces Long Island Partnership with Obscura – Art, Tattoo + Body Mod. Studio

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In Collaboration with Long Beach’s Obscura and Artist Taryn Elise, Ink Different Expands Its College-Alternative Tattoo Apprenticeship to Long Island, New York

LONG BEACH, N.Y., Sept. 11, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Ink Different Tattoos is proud to announce the launch of its newest tattoo apprenticeship location in Long Beach, New York, in collaboration with Obscura – Art, Tattoo + Body Mod. Studio, a private custom studio founded and led by 15-plus-year tattooing veteran Taryn Elise. This partnership brings Ink Different’s structured, real-world apprenticeship program to Long Island’s South Shore, offering aspiring Tattoo Artists a clear path into a professional, AI-proof creative career inside a studio that was purpose-built to help artists thrive.

“What drives Taryn Elise as a mentor is something we deeply respect,” says Paul-Anthony Surdi of Ink Different Tattoos. “She set out to give her apprentices an experience that is encouraging, honest, and built entirely around their success.”

“What drives Taryn Elise as a mentor is something we deeply respect,” says Paul-Anthony Surdi of Ink Different Tattoos. “She set out to give her apprentices an experience that is encouraging, honest, and built entirely around their success. That’s a philosophy we share, and it’s exactly why Obscura is the right home for a Long Island apprenticeship.”

Obscura – Art, Tattoo + Body Mod. Studio is a warm, inclusive boutique studio built around custom tattooing, body modification, and an intentional creative environment where both clients and artists genuinely feel at home. Leading the apprenticeship program is Taryn Elise, founder of Obscura. As a mentor, she provides the encouraging, open-minded learning environment that apprentices should have. Taryn’s work spans detailed custom illustrative pieces, fine-line and single-line tattooing, and a broad stylistic range built on 15-plus years of real-world practice.

A College Alternative in Long Beach

Ink Different’s Tattoo Apprenticeship is designed as a structured college alternative for talented artists aspiring to become professional Tattoo Artists. Instead of taking on student debt for a four-year degree, apprentices learn the trade of tattooing with Ink Different and studios like Obscura, receiving hands-on experience, one-on-one mentorship, and professional development over 18–24 months.

Tattooing is an AI-proof career, driven by human creativity, craftsmanship, and personal connection. With professional Tattoo Artists earning a median income of around $106,000 per year, the apprenticeship offers a practical pathway from passion to profession.

Graduates complete the program industry-ready, with a guaranteed job offer upon successful completion and the skills needed to thrive in today’s competitive tattoo industry.

Now Enrolling in Long Beach

Applications are now open for the Ink Different Tattoo Apprenticeship at Obscura in Long Beach. Whether you’re a recent graduate exploring a college alternative or someone ready to commit to a creative career, this program offers structure, deeply personal mentorship, and a clear path forward inside one of Long Island’s most distinctive and community-driven studios.

Learn more or apply at: becomeatattooartist.com

About Ink Different Tattoo Apprenticeship

Ink Different Tattoos is reshaping what it means to pursue a career in tattooing, swapping the traditional college route for hands-on apprenticeships in working studios nationwide. Grounded in excellence, equal opportunity, and a focus on lasting career success, the company pairs aspiring Tattoo Artists with dedicated one-on-one mentors and backs every graduate with a guaranteed job offer. Its Traditional and Master Mentorship tracks have made Ink Different a leading name in professional tattoo education across the country.

Media Contact

Maria Zacarias, Ink Different Tattoo Co., 1 917-227-2842, maria@inkdifferenttattoos.com

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SOURCE Ink Different Tattoo Co.

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March Networks and VIVOTEK Showcase Integrations Across Combined Portfolio at GSX 2026

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New integrations and customer deployments demonstrate Connected Intelligence and strong momentum following the April merger.

ATLANTA, Sept. 11, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Five months after joining forces, March Networks®, a global leader in video surveillance and business intelligence, and VIVOTEK, a leading global security solutions provider, will exhibit jointly at Global Security Exchange (GSX) 2026 for the first time.

At booth 1823, September 14–16 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, the combined organization will demonstrate how Connected Intelligence for Modern Security brings together video, AI, cloud, business intelligence and third-party systems to give customers better operational intelligence and faster ways to act on it.

“We said from the beginning that bringing March Networks and VIVOTEK together would create meaningful value for our customers and partners,” said Net Payne, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer. “Now we can point to real examples of that happening in the technologies we’re connecting, the systems we’re deploying and the way we’re operating as one company. GSX allows us to show that progress together on a global stage.”

Five months in: the merger is delivering

Since the April merger, teams across both organizations have been connecting technologies and expertise to create practical new capabilities for customers.

At GSX, attendees will see several examples:

Broader VIVOTEK camera support within March Networks environments, giving customers additional device choice and a seamless experience.New C•CURE integration with March Networks Command Enterprise Software, bringing access control events and video together in a single pane of glass.VORTEX, VIVOTEK’s award-winning surveillance platform, integrates with Searchlight Cloud, extending operational intelligence capabilities into direct-to-cloud video environments.Searchlight AI is included for Searchlight Cloud customers, providing natural-language video search without an additional license cost.Expanded face and license plate search and re-search across compatible cameras and devices.VIVOTEK Chroma24 camera delivers clear, full-color video in ultra-low-light environments, improving AI detection and video search.

What a connected ecosystem looks like in practice

GSX will also demonstrate how the March Networks and VIVOTEK combination fits within Delta Electronics’ broader Building Automation business, creating opportunities to draw on Delta’s capabilities in AI, cloud services, edge computing, intelligent buildings, manufacturing and supply chain.

“A North American apparel brand with more than 500 stores was evaluating a competitor’s cloud-based analytics solution,” said Jeff Corrall, Chief Product Officer for March Networks and VIVOTEK. “We were able to integrate VIVOTEK’s advanced cameras, the VORTEX cloud platform, and March Networks’ operational intelligence software into a tailored solution that strengthens store security while using AI to measure foot traffic and checkout efficiency. That combination gave the customer the confidence to choose us.”

Integration beyond technology

The merger is also bringing the organizations closer together behind the scenes, from product roadmaps and R&D to manufacturing, sourcing and supply management. It gives March Networks and VIVOTEK greater access to Delta’s global manufacturing and supply chain resources, strengthening material management and supporting greater factory automation.

For customers and partners, that means the merger is strengthening not only the portfolio, but also how solutions are developed, sourced, and delivered.

“We’re still early in this journey, but we’re already seeing what becomes possible when we bring these teams and technologies together,” Payne concluded. “The customer deployments and integrations we’re showing at GSX are tangible examples of that progress. Our focus is on building those connections in ways that solve real problems and give customers better information when and where they need it.”

Visitors can experience March Networks and VIVOTEK together at GSX 2026, booth 1823. Members of the media are invited to meet with executives at the show for additional updates on the merger, ongoing integrations, and what comes next for the combined organization.

About March Networks

March Networks® is a global leader in intelligent video solutions, helping enterprise and small to medium-sized businesses turn video into actionable intelligence. With over 25 years of experience, the company serves 1,500+ financial institutions, 600+ retailers, and 900+ commercial and industrial brands. March Networks ranks No. 8 among NVR vendors outside China and No. 10 worldwide, according to Novaira Insights*. Our cloud-based technologies combine video surveillance with AI analytics, POS, IoT, and ATM integration to enhance security, efficiency, and the customer experience. Backed by a global network of certified partners, we support customers in 75+ countries with flexible, scalable, open-platform solutions. Headquartered in Ottawa, Canada, and owned by Delta, a global leader in power and thermal management, March Networks operates as part of the Security Solutions group within Delta Intelligent Building Technologies and is a trusted partner and innovator in cloud-based, AI-powered video surveillance.

Learn more at www.marchnetworks.com.

*Source: Novaira Insights – World market for video surveillance hardware and software – 2026 edition.

About VIVOTEK

Founded in Taiwan in 2000, VIVOTEK is a leading global intelligent security solutions provider with over 25 years of industry experience. VIVOTEK has offices in the U.S., Japan, the Netherlands, India and Mexico. Working with over 200 authorized distributors in more than 75 countries, VIVOTEK has been widely recognized for cutting-edge imaging and audio technologies, focusing on AI network cameras, video management software, and cloud surveillance services. The company extensively integrates AI, deep learning, and edge computing into its video solutions. VIVOTEK joined the Delta Group in 2017 and has become a key part of the Security Solutions group within Delta Intelligent Building Technologies, focusing on safety and intelligence.

Learn more at www.vivotek.com.

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SOURCE March Networks Corporation

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