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DATAMARK Technologies Reinforces Commitment to FCC’s Next Generation 9-1-1 Regulations

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Team of experts prepares to partner with Originating Service Providers and 9-1-1 stakeholders to expedite the transition to NG9-1-1

PITTSBURGH, July 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — DATAMARK Technologies, a leader in interoperable solutions for public safety location services comprised of DATAMARK, Michael Baker International‘s innovative public safety geographic information systems (GIS) division, and Digital Data Technologies, LLC (DDT), today announced its current product alignment, as well as future development plans, in support of the Federal Communication Commission’s (FCC) Report And Order Facilitating The Implementation Of Next Generation 9-1-1 Services. The recently announced partnership is spearheading the development of innovative public safety location offerings that will set the benchmark for future emergency response solutions. This initiative underscores the company’s unwavering commitment to public safety and its pivotal role in the evolution of Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1) services.

“The recent action by the FCC is a groundbreaking advancement of our nation’s 9-1-1 system – one that will help ensure that this emergency infrastructure functions effectively and supports the deployment of more advanced capabilities. These critical upgrades will ultimately help first responders and public safety personnel save lives,” said Mitch Pinkston, CEO at DATAMARK Technologies. “Our team at DATAMARK Technologies is committed to providing solutions that align with the new rules adopted by the FCC. We believe that accurate location information matters during an emergency call, and we will continue to do our part to make that a reality. Our team of experts is ready to help Originating Service Providers (OSPs) and 9-1-1 stakeholders navigate the critical timeline laid out in the Report and Order as we move toward the implementation of NG9-1-1 throughout the country.”

The Report and Order emphasizes the criticality of overhauling the nation’s Legacy 9-1-1 system in favor of transitioning to NG9-1-1. It requires OSPs to deliver 9-1-1 traffic in IP-based Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) format to one or more in-state delivery points designated by the 9-1-1 Authority. Additionally, it requires embedding the caller’s location information in the call signaling and implementing a Location Information Server (LIS) for the verification of its customer location information and records.

Key components of the Report and Order include ensuring NG9-1-1-compliant GIS data, Next Generation Core Services (NGCS) solutions that support location validation for 9-1-1 callers and interoperability of data and technology. As the only organization offering interoperable GIS and NGCS location services on the market today, DATAMARK Technologies is well positioned to support the current needs of OSPs and 9-1-1 stakeholders.

DATAMARK Technologies’ suite of products provides a fully-integrated GIS solution that ensures data accuracy and completeness from the birth of an address to the 9-1-1 call. This all-inclusive workflow allows for a more efficient, precise and compatible feedback loop with multiple quality control checkpoints and includes:

LDB/LIS (Location Database/Location Information Server): The LDB/LIS can be deployed within an ESInet as an LDB to provide transitional location services to replace a legacy ALI (Automatic Location Identification) system. The LDB/LIS can also be deployed outside of an ESInet as a LIS to assist OSPs by providing location in a native i3 call delivery. The DATAMARK Technologies LDB/LIS is the only solution on the market that natively stores all location data in CLDXF (Civic Location Data Exchange Format) per the NENA i3 standards. The LDB/LIS validates location information using the LVF (Location Validation Function) and generates PIDF-LO (Prescence Information Data Format – Location Object) to be embedded in the call signaling.VEP (Validate – Edit – Provision): DATAMARK Technologies VEP is a full-service software-as-a-service (SaaS) solution for end-to-end GIS data aggregation, preparation and maintenance for NG9-1-1. Clients can use VEP to conduct GIS data aggregation and reconciliation for not only their own GIS datasets, but also among neighboring jurisdictions. Using VEP ensures that jurisdictional boundaries are seamless and reconciles NG9-1-1 GIS data with legacy 9-1-1 databases and related GIS datasets.DataManager: The DataManager product makes authoritative GIS data available to NG9-1-1 functional elements (ECRF/LVF, map displays, CAD, etc.). DataManager provides a quality control process that runs continuously and evaluates updates as they are incorporated into the core database; a data publishing function that transforms, formats and exports the data from the core database into the ECRF or other databases based on the client’s needs; and a secure web interface for enabling administrators to configure quality control and data publishing rules, control users, permissions, and display options.ECRF (Emergency Call Routing Function)/ LVF (Location Validation Function): The ECRF is a scalable, NENA and IETF-compliant LoST (Location-to-Service Translation) server that accepts LoST queries (containing a civic address or geodetic information, as well as the desired emergency service) and returns the appropriate PSAP (Public Safety Answering Point) call routing information based on stored GIS data. The LVF validates that a civic address stored in the LDB can be uniquely located in the GIS database, can be properly associated with the correct PSAP and can provide first responders with a “dispatchable” location.

To further support the emerging demands of this market, DATAMARK Technologies is currently developing solutions to expand the capabilities of NG9-1-1 geospatial location services. Additional details about the expanded capabilities will be announced in Fall 2024.

For more information regarding DATAMARK Technologies’ current solutions and upcoming developments, visit https://datamarkgis.com/.

About DATAMARK Technologies

DATAMARK Technologies provides a new era of 9-1-1 and redefines interoperability for the public safety industry. The company combines DATAMARK, Michael Baker International’s public safety division known for best-in-class geographic information systems (GIS) data management and software solutions, with Digital Data Technologies, LLC (DDT), a top-tier Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1) location services provider.

This strategic union heralds a new era of 9-1-1 and redefines geospatial data management for the public safety industry. DATAMARK Technologies offers a fully integrated solution that empowers public safety agencies to manage, maintain and leverage GIS data to the highest industry standards. The unified approach breaks down barriers of data silos to improve call routing accuracy, offer seamless discrepancy resolution and provide unwavering location fidelity for call takers with enhanced interoperability.

For more information about DATAMARK Technologies, visit DATAMARKGIS.com or DDTI.net.

Contact:
Julia Covelli
julia.covelli@mbakerintl.com
(866) 293-4609

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SOURCE DATAMARK Technologies

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Cheers to One Million! Broadway.com’s Instagram Hits a Milestone

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NEW YORK, Oct. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — A celebration is in order! Broadway.com’s Instagram account has hit a milestone one million followers.

For over a decade, Broadway.com has offered exclusive access to Broadway’s hottest shows and iconic stars via Instagram. Followers have been invited along to starry opening nights, glamorous red carpets and exciting one-night-only events. We’ve shared gorgeous portraits, introduced Broadway newcomers, celebrated screen stars taking to the stage and given tastes of exciting interviews. There have been curtain calls and exclusive performances, backstage visits and sneak peeks into rehearsal. Need to keep up with breaking news? We’ve got that too! If it’s happening, rest assured, Broadway.com is there, and will continue to celebrate the Broadway community for years to come.

If you’re one of the million, thanks for choosing to have us on your feed! If not, what are you waiting for? Join in on the fun!

CONTACT:
Andrew Mitchell
media@cambridgeglobal.com

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SOURCE Broadway.com

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Vusion Completes Acquisition of In-Store Media, Opening a New Chapter for Digital Retail Media in Physical Stores

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Vusion and ISM combine connected store technology and retail media expertise to unlock the untapped advertising potential of physical stores

PARIS, Oct. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Vusion (VU – FR0010282822), the global leader in AI-powered digitalization solutions for physical commerce, today announces the completion of its acquisition of In-Store Media (ISM), following the agreement announced on July 27, 2026 and the satisfaction of all conditions precedent, including the receipt of the required regulatory approvals. 

The acquisition is financed through a bridge financing facility with total commitments of €200 million, an initial maturity of 12 months and two six-month extension options.

Headquartered in Barcelona, ISM brings deep expertise in designing, deploying and monetizing in-store retail media networks, long-standing relationships with 90 retail banners and more than 1,600 brands, as well as a strong international track record in 9 countries across EMEA, Americas and APAC.

This acquisition strengthens retail media as a core pillar of Vusion’s connected store platform. Despite their significant shopper traffic and proximity to purchasing decisions, physical stores remain an underdeveloped retail media channel, capturing less than 3% of retail media spending. Unlocking this opportunity requires combining retail media expertise with the digital capabilities to understand audiences, activate relevant content and demonstrate campaign performance.

Together, Vusion and ISM aim to help retailers and brands better understand in-store audiences, deliver more relevant content and adapt campaigns in real time. By making in-store media easier to integrate into brands’ omnichannel campaigns and its impact on sales easier to measure, the combination will help brands invest with greater confidence and retailers generate more revenue from their media networks.

“We are delighted to welcome the In-Store Media teams to Vusion,” said Thierry Gadou, Chairman and CEO of Vusion. “We share the same vision that physical stores will be the next great digital media. Together, we now have an exceptional opportunity to bring that vision to life, combining our cutting-edge connected store platform and ISM’s retail media expertise to create lasting value for retailers, brands and shoppers.”

“Joining Vusion is a tremendous opportunity for our teams and customers,” said Fernando de Vicente, CEO of In-Store Media. “We have built our business through close partnerships with retailers and brands, and a deep understanding of how to make in-store media work. We look forward to leveraging those foundations with Vusion, accelerating our digitalization, and expanding what we can achieve together.”

In-Store Media to participate in Vusion’s Capital Markets Day

ISM will participate in Vusion’s Capital Markets Day in Paris on November 18, 2026. The event will provide an opportunity to share more about the role of in-store digital retail media in Vusion’s medium-term strategic plan and the growth opportunities created by this acquisition.

About In-Store Media

The Spanish multinational, founded in 1998, is today a global benchmark in the development of Retail Media advertising solutions. Present in 9 countries across Europe, Latin America and Asia, it works with more than 90 retailers and maintains partnerships with over 1,600 brands. It covers hypermarkets, supermarkets, shopping centres, department stores and specialty stores in Spain, France, Portugal, Italy, Poland, Mexico, Argentina, Chile and the Philippines.

About Vusion

Vusion is the global leader in AI-powered digitalization solutions for physical commerce, serving over 350 major retail groups in the world. www.vusion.com

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Abel Communications CEO Greg Abel Named President of Newly Formed Public Relations Society of America Maryland Chesapeake Chapter

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Merger of two regional public relations chapters creates new opportunities for professional development and industry connection across Maryland

BALTIMORE, Oct. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Abel Communications announced today that CEO and founder Greg Abel will serve as President of the newly formed Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) Maryland Chesapeake chapter, helping lead an expanded network of public relations and communications professionals across the Baltimore region.

The PRSA Maryland Chesapeake chapter brings together the PRSA’s Maryland and Central Chesapeake chapters following a merger approved by both chapters’ members and boards, as well as PRSA’s national leadership. Effective immediately, the merger will support broader professional engagement across Maryland, with a strategic focus on the Greater Baltimore region.

“This is an exciting day and the culmination of a great deal of behind-the-scenes work by leaders who are committed to promoting and supporting the public relations profession,” said Greg Abel, CEO and founder of Abel Communications. “By combining our energy, talent, and networks, the PRSA Maryland Chesapeake chapter is committed to delivering high-quality and consistent programming for our members.”

As President, Abel will work alongside a board representing public relations agencies, higher education, public media, philanthropy, and advocacy organizations. This board aims to strengthen the chapter’s programming and create more opportunities for members to learn, build relationships, and contribute to the public relations profession.

Beginning in the fourth quarter of 2026, the PRSA Maryland Chesapeake chapter plans to offer monthly virtual learning sessions with industry thought leaders, monthly in-person coffee meetups at member locations, and visits every other month to local news organizations and other organizations making news.

PRSA and Public Relations Student Society of America members are invited to help shape the chapter through its Communications, Programming & Professional Development, and Membership & Engagement committees. Those interested in joining or volunteering can learn more by visiting https://prsamd.org.

About Abel Communications
Abel Communications is a full-service public relations firm, delivering strategic communications programs for regional and national clients in sectors including health and wellness, professional services, and local, national, and global brands. The firm provides strategic counsel to help clients navigate the intersection of media relations, content development, social media, and digital strategy.

About the PRSA Maryland Chesapeake Chapter
The PRSA Maryland Chesapeake Chapter is the premier professional organization serving strategic communication, public relations and marketing professionals across Maryland. Formed through the union of two established regional chapters, PRSA Maryland Chesapeake fosters lifelong learning, ethical standard-setting and collaborative connection through programming, professional development and industry leadership.

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SOURCE ABEL COMMUNICATIONS

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