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MS2 Introduces New Software to Streamline Traffic Data Collection for Transportation Agencies

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MS2 Connect keeps Diamond counters in service and connects their data to MS2’s Traffic Count Database System

ANN ARBOR, Mich., Oct. 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — MS2, a TAPCO brand and provider of transportation data management solutions, this week launched MS2 Connect, a new software solution that helps transportation agencies keep collecting critical traffic data after Diamond Traffic’s closure. The Windows desktop application allows agencies to continue using their existing Diamond traffic counters while simplifying how they collect, manage and transfer data used to inform roadway planning, infrastructure investments and traffic safety decisions.

Transportation agencies rely on accurate traffic data to inform roadway safety and infrastructure decisions. According to an October 2026 Federal Highway Administration notice, transportation departments in all 50 states, Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico report traffic traffic volume, speed and vehicle type data to FHWA every month. State and local agencies collect that data year-round with detection devices in the field, and FHWA uses it to assess impacts on highway safety and manage the federal-aid highway program.

“The future envisioned by MS2 is not simply a better traffic counter or a better scheduling application. It is a connected, automated, data-driven short count program that protects existing hardware investments, connects scheduling and field workflows and enables automated data processing, AI-assisted quality control and faster delivery of trusted traffic data,” said Ben Chen, founder of MS2. “The real value comes from connecting scheduling, fieldwork and data processing capabilities into one continuous workflow, helping agencies make better transportation decisions based on better information.”

Following Diamond Traffic’s closure in February 2026, agencies relying on Diamond equipment faced uncertainty about the future of their traffic monitoring programs. MS2 Connect provides a path forward by supporting a broad range of existing Diamond counters while enabling agencies to connect their collected traffic data with MS2’s Traffic Count Database System (TCDS).

Protecting Investments and Simplifying Data Management

MS2 Connect supports both short count and continuous count operations, maintaining most of the functionality of the legacy Diamond Centurion software while introducing additional capabilities to simplify uploading traffic count files to TCDS.

With MS2 Connect, agencies can:

Protect existing investments: Continue using their Diamond traffic counting equipment without immediately purchasing replacements.Maintain data continuity: Support short-term and continuous traffic monitoring operations.Reduce operational disruption: Maintain access to familiar counter management functionality.Simplify data management: Streamline the process of transferring collected traffic data into MS2 TCDS.Build toward connected workflows: Take a step towards a more connected traffic data management process.

“We worked directly with our customers through surveys and collaborative design sessions, bringing together their feedback with expertise from MS2 and former Diamond employees,” said Jason Breault, Director of Client Success at MS2. “MS2 Connect extends the life of existing counters, protects agency investments and allows customers to continue collecting the data they rely on.”

Building the Foundation for a Unified Short Count Workflow

The launch of MS2 Connect represents an important milestone in MS2’s broader vision for a Unified Short Count Workflow.

MS2 is working toward a unified short count workflow that connects every stage of a traffic count program, from scheduling counts and managing fieldwork to collecting, validating and reporting data. The goal is fewer manual tasks and faster delivery of reliable traffic data for planning and decision-making.

Continuing MS2’s Commitment to Transportation Agencies

For more than two decades, MS2 has worked with transportation agencies to improve how they collect, manage and analyze roadway data. Today, more than 260 agencies across 33 U.S. states and Canada use MS2 software.

MS2 is part of TAPCO’s roadway safety portfolio, helping agencies turn transportation data into actionable insights that support safer roadways by identifying roadway risks, responding to dangerous situations and making more informed safety decisions.

To learn more about MS2 Connect and how it can support your agency’s Diamond traffic counters, contact the MS2 team at info@ms2soft.com.

About MS2
MS2, a TAPCO brand, provides transportation data management software that helps agencies collect, manage, analyze, and share transportation information. Its solutions support traffic monitoring, data collection, analytics, planning, and reporting to help agencies make informed transportation decisions.

About TAPCO
TAPCO is a leading provider of intelligent transportation systems (ITS) designed to enhance road safety and increase road and vehicle connectivity. Headquartered in Brown Deer, WI and founded in 1956, TAPCO manufactures innovative ITS systems and software alongside value-added integration and maintenance services. TAPCO has established itself as a trusted partner in improving road safety outcomes with ITS solutions for states, communities and businesses. For further information, please visit TAPCO’s website and follow on LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ms2-introduces-new-software-to-streamline-traffic-data-collection-for-transportation-agencies-302916113.html

SOURCE TAPCO

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STEPHEN A. SMITH ADDRESSES WHITE HOUSE DINNER ATTENDANCE, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO HBCUs AND PROTECTING CORPORATE INVESTMENT IN BLACK EDUCATION

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NEW YORK, Oct. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Stephen A. Smith, media mogul, New York Times bestselling author, and proud 1991 graduate of Winston-Salem State University, is addressing the public discussion surrounding his decision to attend a White House dinner with President Donald Trump, emphasizing his commitment to the long-term financial stability of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

For Smith, the decision was rooted in a commitment to institutions that have educated generations of Black leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, and public servants.

“I will always advocate for HBCUs and the students whose futures depend on them,” Smith said. “My reason for attending the White House dinner was to discuss the challenges these institutions face in securing long-term funding and to make the case that corporate America must continue to invest in them.”

Smith acknowledged federal support through the FUTURE Act while expressing concern that political tensions surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) could discourage private companies from supporting HBCUs. He maintains that these institutions deserve sustained corporate partnerships, philanthropic contributions, and public investment.

“If we truly believe in free-market capitalism, businesses should be able to support educational institutions and charitable causes without fear of criticism or repercussions,” Smith said. “HBCUs have made extraordinary contributions to this country. They deserve sustained public and private investment.”

Ashley Christopher, Esq., Founder and CEO of the HBCU Week Foundation, recognized Smith’s advocacy and decision to engage with the administration.

“Stephen A. Smith has been a powerful advocate for HBCUs, using his platform and influence to shine a national spotlight on our institutions,” expressed Christopher, “His continued support of HBCU Week helps advance our mission of connecting students with life-changing educational opportunities, and we are proud to have him as our ambassador.”

Since Smith became an HBCU Week Ambassador in 2019, the initiative has facilitated more than 15,000 on-the-spot college acceptances and raised and awarded more than $150 million in scholarships, according to the HBCU Week Foundation.

As public discussion continues, Smith is emphasizing the importance of ensuring HBCUs have the resources and partnerships needed to educate future generations and expand opportunities for students.

CLICK HERE to watch Smith’s full response to his White House visit.

MEDIA CONTACT:

media@mrsasinc.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/stephen-a-smith-addresses-white-house-dinner-attendance-reaffirms-commitment-to-hbcus-and-protecting-corporate-investment-in-black-education-302918547.html

SOURCE Straight Shooter Media

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Advantex Announces Completion of Financing and Extension of Maturity Date of Previously Issued Debentures

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TORONTO, Oct. 23, 2026 /CNW/ — Advantex Marketing International Inc. (CSE: ADX) (“Advantex”), a leader in the merchant cash advance and loyalty marketing products for merchants, today announced the completion of a $250,000 secured debt financing. Advantex issued a $250,000 non-convertible debenture which bears an interest rate at 12% per annum and matures December 15, 2027. The proceeds raised from this issuance of the Debenture will be used for working capital purposes.

Advantex has also extended the maturity of its existing $700,000 in 12% secured debentures from October 10, 2026 to December 15, 2027.

About Advantex Marketing International Inc.

Advantex provides working capital to merchants. Advantex also provides specialized marketing programs that enable members of Aeroplan to earn Aeroplan points at participating merchants.

Advantex shares trade on the Canadian Securities Exchange under the symbol ADX. For more information go to Advantex’s profile on www.sedar.com

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable securities laws relating to the future business and operations of Advantex. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. The business and operations of Advantex described herein is dependent on a number of factors and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause actual results to differ material include, but are not limited to, changes in Advantex’s economic and competitive conditions including but not limited to the industry sectors in which Advantex operates.

The statements in this news release are made of the date of this release. Forward-looking statements are made based on management’s beliefs, estimates and opinions on the date the statements are made and Advantex undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as required by applicable law.

SOURCE Advantex Marketing International Inc.

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Club Offers for Travel Enthusiasts in Canada

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TORONTO, Oct 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Travelzoo® (NASDAQ: TZOO), the club for travel enthusiasts, announces three of many new Club Offers for Club Members in Canada.

Rigorously vetted and negotiated for us travel enthusiasts:

$799—COSTA RICA WEEK WITH FLIGHTS & CAR
We think fall is an ideal time to visit Costa Rica; the scenery is lush and the crowds are gone. Drive between volcanic Arenal and the idyllic beaches of Tamarindo on this seven-night trip. Since it’s not as busy, we were able to negotiate a price that saves members up to $648 on departures through mid-December.

$899—BARCELONA: 5 NIGHTS WITH FLIGHTS
Explore Barcelona’s world-class museums and architectural masterpieces in the quieter winter months to pack more into your trip. You won’t waste hours in lines and can access top restaurants that are fully booked in summer. We save $300 on travel this January and February, when temperatures are still spring-like. Roundtrip flights from Toronto, hotel and daily breakfast are included.

$999—ST. KITTS GETAWAY FOR 2, REG. $2083
Most visitors to St. Kitts book months in advance, but when we pointed out that travel enthusiasts are more spontaneous, this resort gave us a terrific rate for stays this November and December. Spend four nights in Frigate Bay and get an upgraded Oceanview room, too.

Are you a travel enthusiast? Join the club today: https://travelzoo.com

Who are we?
We, Travelzoo®, are the club for travel enthusiasts. We reach 30 million travellers. Club Members receive Club Offers negotiated and rigorously vetted by our deal experts around the globe. Our relationships with thousands of top travel companies give us access to irresistible deals. Our club and its benefits are built around the lifestyle of a modern travel enthusiast.

Media Contact: 
Amanda Ieraci – Toronto
+1 437 866 8540
aieraci@travelzoo.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/club-offers-for-travel-enthusiasts-in-canada-302918543.html

SOURCE Travelzoo

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