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Stax Music Academy Celebrates 25th Anniversary with the release of Soul of America Virtual Production and Study Guide

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MEMPHIS, Tenn., Feb. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Stax Music Academy (SMA) celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2025, focusing on youth, education, and the ongoing legacy of soul music. As part of its milestone year, SMA announces the release of SOUL OF AMERICA, its annual virtual performance production, and a companion study guide for educators.

 

STAX MUSIC ACADEMY focuses on the ongoing legacy of soul music; releases educational Study Guide, Soul of America.

Educators, students, youth-serving organizations, music lovers, and media can register HERE to download Soul of America, an engaging virtual production that connects music, history, and social change. 

“This year’s program connects lived experiences through music while uplifting the ongoing legacy of American Soul Music,” says Bria Saulsberry, SMA’s Director of Education & Youth Development.

“Our ultimate desire is to help students connect with the power of community and inspire them to create art relevant to their current experiences,” Saulsberry continues. “The virtual production’s companion study guide empowers youth to explore their creative agency, recognize their values, and determine how to serve their communities.”

That goal is realized each year as students write, help direct, and star in the production. “One of the most important lessons SMA has taught me is balance – life, school, work – you must choose your path, and music is such a gamble,” describes Pasley Thompson, a senior at SMA who will continue her music studies in college this fall.

“I never thought I’d be a singer, and really didn’t know I could write a script, but I used lessons SMA taught me to translate my own idea into something that resonated with other people, the same way music does.”

More than 150,000 people viewed last year’s show, thanks to educators around the country as well as the generosity of Ryan Seacrest, whose foundation created Seacrest Studios, state-of-the-art broadcast media centers located in select pediatric hospitals across the nation, including Memphis’ own Lebonheur, which plays the program for patients multiple times throughout the month.

“Seacrest Studios at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital is thrilled to partner again this year with Stax Music Academy to bring the transformative power of music to patients and families. Our missions align to inspire and uplift children – to help them heal – whether through medicine, the power of music, or, in this case, the combination of the two,” says Chris Luther, Seacrest Studios Lead at Le Bonheur.

In addition to its annual Black History Month digital production and study guide, SMA will honor its 25-year legacy and impact on soul music through a year’s worth of exciting events, the centerpiece of which will be a live performance on February 21st in downtown Memphis.

Stax Music Academy will also host 12 months of Soul programming, a series of free pop-up concerts throughout the year that blend gospel, blues, and R&B to celebrate the enduring power of soul music.

SMA students will also embark on a national Summer concert tour that includes performances in Washington, D.C., New York City, Philadelphia, Nashville, and the Mississippi Delta. The tour begins with an appearance at the prestigious Smithsonian Folklife Festival.

Legacy of Stax Music Academy
Rooted in the rich history of Stax Records, where young dreamers transformed the corner of College and McLemore into a beacon of creativity, Stax Music Academy continues to inspire, educate, and empower the next generation of artists.

Notable alumni include songwriting legend David Porter, Earth, Wind & Fire founder Maurice White, J. Blackfoot of The Soul Children, Booker T. Jones of Booker T. & the M.G.’s, the original Bar-Kays, The Mad Lads, Rufus Thomas, William Bell, and many more. Today, SMA offers rigorous music education and youth development for students aged 12-18, ensuring the soul of Memphis continues to evolve for future generations. 

Soul of America, a virtual production and study guide, is designed for use by students, teachers, schools, youth groups, YMCAs, YWCAs, Boys & Girls Clubs, and organizations, particularly those with limited access to the arts. These free resources will be available to all audiences in February 2025.

The SMA Soul of America digital show and companion study guide will be available for download HERE on February 3rd, 2025.

About Stax Music Academy
The Stax Music Academy is a premier afterschool and summer music institute located adjacent to the Stax Museum of American Soul Music at the original site of Stax Records in the Memphis community known as Soulsville, USA. It provides industry-centric music education combined with holistic youth development programming to create leaders and artists of the future. It also provides professional mental wellness counseling to its families.

It is the only music institute in the world that focuses on the music created at Stax in the 1960s and 70s. Here, middle school and high school students study Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, the Staple Singers, Sam & Dave, and Rufus and Carla Thomas, and perform around the world in places like Italy, Australia, Germany, France, and the United Kingdom.

For more information about Stax Music Academy’s 25th Anniversary events, visit the SMA website. The website links to events and social media, and you can sign up for monthly updates on all events and programs throughout the year.

The Soulsville Foundation is fully responsible for the program and its content. The Stax and Snapping Fingers design are ® trademarks of Stax Records, a division of Concord. Stax Records proudly supports the Soulsville Foundation; however, the views and opinions expressed in this program may not necessarily be shared by Stax Records.

For more information, please contact:
Mary Helen Randall (Memphis) || maryhelen.randall@soulsvillefoundation.org 
Brian O’Neal (Los Angeles) || brianoneal@gmail.com

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SOURCE Stax Music Academy

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CreditRefresh Members Challenge More Than 1,000 Potential Credit Report Errors in First Month

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Credit Refresh LLC brings advanced AI and full consumer control to a traditionally complex dispute process

DOVER, Del., Sept. 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Credit Refresh LLC, creator of the AI-powered CreditRefresh platform, today announced that members used CreditRefresh to challenge more than 1,000 potentially inaccurate, incomplete, outdated or unverifiable credit report items during the platform’s first month.

CreditRefresh helps consumers conduct a detailed review of the credit report information they provide. Members decide what to address, review and edit their dispute materials, and control every step of the process themselves.

“Seeing members challenge more than 1,000 potential reporting errors during our first month reinforces our belief that consumers want a simpler and more transparent way to manage credit disputes,” said Jordan Reyes, Head of Product at Credit Refresh LLC. “CreditRefresh gives consumers advanced analysis and clear guidance while keeping every decision in their hands.”

AI trained for detailed credit report analysis

CreditRefresh uses advanced AI trained specifically to analyze credit report information with care and consistency. The technology reviews account-level details and applies structured checks across the information available for analysis.

This field-by-field approach helps members examine the information behind each account and understand which details may warrant further investigation. CreditRefresh can identify potential inconsistencies, outdated information, incomplete records and other details that may be difficult to recognize during a basic manual review.

CreditRefresh also makes the process easier for consumers who would otherwise attempt credit disputes without guidance. The platform organizes relevant information, explains potential issues in plain language and helps members prepare personalized dispute materials.

Consumers remain in control

Members choose which items to address, review the supporting information, approve the language used in their dispute materials, and decide whether and when to submit each dispute.

CreditRefresh encourages members to dispute only information they believe is inaccurate, incomplete, outdated or unverifiable.

“CreditRefresh was built to help consumers understand what appears on their credit reports and take informed action,” said Reyes. “Advanced AI handles the detailed analysis and organization. Members remain in control from the initial review through the final dispute decision.”

A promising first month

The more than 1,000 potential reporting errors challenged during the first month represent an early milestone for Credit Refresh LLC and demonstrate how consumers are using AI to take a more active role in the credit dispute process.

Each disputed item represents a decision made by a CreditRefresh member after reviewing the available information. Through this guided process, consumers can investigate potential errors and take an important first step toward better credit.

CreditRefresh does not promise a specific credit outcome. Results vary based on each consumer’s credit profile, the information disputed, creditor and credit bureau responses, and other financial activity.

A simpler approach to credit disputes

CreditRefresh combines systematic credit report analysis with the accessibility of a guided do-it-yourself experience. Members receive help understanding complicated report information while retaining personal control over the dispute process.

By making detailed analysis easier to access, Credit Refresh LLC aims to help more consumers understand their credit reports, investigate potential errors and take informed steps toward better credit.

About CreditRefresh

CreditRefresh is an AI-powered platform created by Credit Refresh LLC. CreditRefresh helps consumers review credit report information, identify potential reporting issues, prepare personalized dispute materials and manage the dispute process themselves. CreditRefresh is designed to make credit report disputes more understandable, detailed and accessible while keeping consumers in control.

Learn more at creditrefresh.ai.

Activity disclosure

The statement that members challenged more than 1,000 potential reporting errors is based on CreditRefresh platform records from July 28, 2026 through August 28, 2026. The total reflects credit report items selected for dispute by members. Submission of a dispute does not establish that the disputed information was inaccurate or guarantee a particular outcome.

Media contact

Maya Chen
Communications Lead, Credit Refresh LLC
press@creditrefresh.ai

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SOURCE Credit Refresh LLC

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Eightpoint Technologies Joins Enterprise Cayman and DMZ as Programme Partner for Launch Labs Incubator

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Eightpoint will support the inaugural 14-week programme connecting 18 ventures with mentorship, expertise and networks to help accelerate scalable growth

GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands, Sept. 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Eightpoint Technologies Ltd. SEZC today announced that it has joined Enterprise Cayman and global startup incubator DMZ as a Programme Partner for the inaugural Launch Labs Incubator, a 14-week programme designed to help entrepreneurs strengthen their businesses, accelerate commercialisation and prepare for investment and scalable growth.

The programme, which runs from September 1 through December 4, 2026, brings together 18 Cayman-based and international ventures spanning technology, financial services, artificial intelligence, consumer solutions and other emerging industries.

As a Programme Partner, Eightpoint will support Enterprise Cayman and DMZ in providing participating founders with access to resources, expertise and connections designed to help them build and grow their businesses.

“Having built and grown our business from Cayman, we have seen firsthand the value of a strong, connected technology and entrepreneurial ecosystem,” said Thomas Redford, President of Eightpoint Technologies Ltd. SEZC. “Launch Labs is creating meaningful opportunities for founders to access the mentorship, expertise and networks that can help turn promising ideas into scalable businesses. We’re pleased to come on board as a Programme Partner and support an initiative that is investing directly in entrepreneurs while strengthening Cayman’s position as a place where innovative companies can build and grow.”

Eightpoint Technologies has operated within Cayman Enterprise City since 2018 and recently reaffirmed its long-term commitment to the Cayman Islands through an extended presence at Signal House in George Town. The company builds and commercialises digital products across desktop and mobile interfaces, giving its team firsthand experience developing technology products for consumers across international markets.

That experience closely aligns with Launch Labs’ focus on helping founders move from early-stage ideas toward sustainable, scalable companies.

“Eightpoint has been part of the Cayman Enterprise City community for many years, and we are pleased to have them joining Launch Labs as a Programme Partner,” said Charlie Kirkconnell, CEO of Cayman Enterprise City and Chairman of Enterprise Cayman. “Their experience building technology businesses from Cayman and serving international markets brings valuable perspective to the programme. Partnerships like this help us connect entrepreneurs with the experience, expertise and networks that can support their growth while continuing to strengthen Cayman’s innovation ecosystem.”

Supporting the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs

Powered by DMZ, one of the world’s leading startup incubators, Launch Labs combines weekly workshops, structured milestones, dedicated mentorship and founder activities across four core areas: strategic foundations, go-to-market and sales, financial and growth strategy, and execution and investor readiness.

For Eightpoint, participating in Launch Labs is an extension of the company’s broader commitment to supporting the technology community in the Cayman Islands.

“Eightpoint has benefited from being part of the Cayman community for many years, and we believe it is important to give back locally by supporting initiatives that create opportunities for others,” said Deniz Gezgin, CEO of Eightpoint. “Developing a strong technology ecosystem also means investing in people. Through programmes like Launch Labs, we hope to help create more pathways for local entrepreneurs and talent to develop their skills, build businesses and access meaningful career opportunities as Cayman’s technology sector continues to grow.”

The inaugural Launch Labs programme concludes December 4, 2026. Additional information about the programme is available through Enterprise Cayman at enterprisecayman.ky/launch-labs-incubator

About Eightpoint Technologies Ltd. SEZC: Eightpoint Technologies Ltd. SEZC is a special economic zone company based at Signal House in George Town, Grand Cayman, where it has operated within Cayman Enterprise City since 2018. It builds and commercialises user-first digital products across desktop and mobile interfaces. Eightpoint Technologies is one of a group of sister companies, each a separate legal entity. Learn more at eightpoint.io.

About Enterprise Cayman: Enterprise Cayman is a non-profit organisation powered by Cayman Enterprise City in partnership with Cayman Islands special economic zone companies. The organisation provides Caymanians and residents with access to learning experiences and opportunities to develop and launch new business ventures, pursue careers within the technology and innovation sectors, and connect with a network of industry professionals.

About DMZ: DMZ is a tech incubator and startup ecosystem that fuels entrepreneurship in Canada and beyond. Through its programmes, DMZ supports founders in scaling high-impact ventures and connects entrepreneurs with resources, mentorship and international networks. Headquartered in Toronto, DMZ operates a global network spanning more than 15 countries.

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SOURCE Eightpoint

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IFA 2026: Sunseeker Debuts 2027 LiDAR Models, Smart Garden Ecosystem and Industry‑First 3D Semantic Map

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The 2027 LiDAR lineup and intelligent garden platform mark a strategic shift from standalone mowers to a connected, adaptive outdoor ecosystem

BERLIN, Sept. 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Sunseeker, a global leader in intelligent lawn care, unveiled five all-new 2027 LiDAR products at IFA 2026, alongside its Smart Garden ecosystem, AllSense™ 3.0, and MapOS™ with the industry’s first 3D Semantic Map for intuitive, real-scene lawn management.

Making its IFA debut, Sunseeker is expanding its vision beyond robotic mowing to build a connected Smart Garden ecosystem powered by AI, robotics, supporting smart irrigation, weed control, and the seamless integration of an expanding range of outdoor robots.

Sunseeker’s 2027 LiDAR lineup: precision, intelligence and scalability for every garden

Sunseeker’s 2027 LiDAR lineup is designed for effortless use: no manual mapping, no complexity. All five models come standard with LiDAR sensing. Among them, the S7 LiDAR Ultra AWD 3000 and S5 LiDAR Ultra Pro AWD 1800 feature AllSense™ 3.0, which uses 360° LiDAR to autonomously map and navigate the working environment, along with Smart Garden ecosystem and MapOS™. The S3 LiDAR Series utilizes solid-state LiDAR. All are engineered to deliver precise perception and reliable navigation across diverse garden environments. The S7’s AWD easily handles steep and uneven ground, including slopes of up to 80% (approx. 39°). The five models bring wire-free and antenna-free installation and centimeter-level navigation to gardens from 500 to 3,000 square meters. Availability begins in February 2027.

The S7 is designed for large and complex lawns and features an Extension Hub that supports accessories such as the EdgeZero trimmer head, enabling precise 0cm edge-to-edge cutting, as well as a robotic arm. The S5 brings advanced intelligence to medium and large family gardens, while the S3 Series provides wireless precision for smaller and sloped lawns. With 360° LiDAR and recognition of more than 360 types of obstacles, Sunseeker’s perception technology helps mowers detect and respond to objects more accurately, reducing the risk of collisions and helping users enjoy safer and more reliable autonomous mowing with less manual intervention.

Smart Garden: An Intelligent Ecosystem That Senses, Understands, and Recommends

At IFA 2026, Sunseeker introduced the Smart Garden ecosystem, bringing a more intelligent garden and lawn management experience to users.

Built on Sense, Understand, and Recommend, Sunseeker’s Smart Garden ecosystem connects robotic mowers, rain gauges, soil sensors (available 2027), and future autonomous robots into a unified intelligence network. By continuously monitoring rainfall, soil, lawn health, and environmental conditions, it builds real‑time garden understanding, transforming data into actionable insights through onboard Vision AI, multi‑modal sensor fusion, and cloud‑based AI models. For example, when yellow grass is detected, AI can help determine whether it is caused by drought or pests and recommend watering or pest control. Future integration with Smart Irrigation Control will further extend Smart Garden from sensing and recommendations to automated action.

Sunseeker also unveiled its FSA (Flexible Supervised Autonomy Outdoors) technology roadmap to explore the future development of autonomous outdoor care. Informed by discussions with Prof. Dr. Alan Akbik, Professor of Machine Learning at Humboldt University of Berlin, the roadmap aims to progressively reduce human intervention. With Sunseeker currently at the Level 3 (L3) Smart Garden stage and progressing toward L4 Supervised Autonomous Garden and L5 Supervised Autonomous Outdoors, the roadmap charts a clear path forward.

“AI will redefine the entire outdoor-care industry. As we progress from L3 toward L4 and L5, human involvement in outdoor work will continue to decline, helping address labor shortages and population aging,” said Prof. Dr. Alan Akbik.

“This evolution is already underway, and Sunseeker is committed to leading it,” said Terry Ma, CEO of Sunseeker. “We will continue to invest in AI and robotics, advancing from Smart Garden to Flexible Supervised Autonomous Outdoors to free users from routine outdoor work and give them more freedom to enjoy life.

MapOS™: Industry‑First 3D Semantic Map for Intuitive Lawn Management

Integrating AI semantic understanding, MapOS™ transforms visual information into a semantic map to create a digital representation of the garden with contextual understanding, the real-scene map will give users a clear view of the garden including both layout and key landscape elements, which further enables fine-tune boundaries point by point, designates no-go and safe zones, and customizes mowing settings directly on the map to make the lawn management more intuitive and precise.

For large or complex gardens, MapOS™ combines real-scene visualization with intelligent insights to reduce unnecessary remapping and manual intervention, delivering a more effortless lawn-care experience.

Accelerating growth through portfolio strength and global reach

Sunseeker Robotics achieved a threefold increase in revenue in 2026, driven by 14 products across 40 countries under its dual-brand strategy. The company continues to strengthen its Glocal strategy through localized partnerships, retail expansion and full-channel service capabilities. Its retail network has grown from approximately 1,500 points of sale in 2025 to about 5,000 in 2026, supported by partnerships with leading retailers, e-commerce platforms and regional distributors across Europe and the U.S.

Sunseeker is also expanding its presence through partnerships with national team and major sports clubs, including FFF (French Football Federation), SV Werder Bremen (Germany), Mantova 1911 (Italy), IFK Göteborg (Sweden) and F.C. Copenhagen (Denmark), Philadelphia Phillies (US), further strengthening its connection with local communities beyond product sales.

 

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SOURCE Sunseeker Robotics

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