VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / November 23, 2020 / Grande West Transportation Group Inc. (TSXV:BUS)(OTCQX:GWTNF) (FRA:6LG) ("Grande West" or the "Company"), a Canadian manufacturer of mid-sized multi-purpose transit vehicles for sale in Canada and the United States, announced today, financial results for the second quarter ending September 30, 2020.

Third Quarter Highlights

Bus, aftermarket parts and other revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2020 of $8,921,227 compared to $1,605,755 for the three months ended September 30, 2019
Net loss for the three months ended September 30, 2020 of $1,309,076 compared to net loss of $2,111,189 for the three months ended September 30, 2019
Adjusted EBITDA loss for the three months ended September 30, 2020 of $674,988 compared to an adjusted EBITDA loss of $1,768,084 for the three months ended September 30, 2019 (see "Non-GAAP Measures")
Deliveries of 20 Vicinity buses for the three months ended September 30, 2020 compared to nil for the three months ended September 30, 2019

Business Overview

Corporate Update
Grande West has delivered over 450 buses in the Canadian and US markets. The Company is the market leader in the mid-size bus category in Canada where it sells its Vicinity branded buses.

William Trainer, Grande West President and CEO, stated, "our focus for 2020 has been on ensuring ongoing liquidity by delivering on existing orders and product line expansion. Our new 28-foot medium-duty crossover bus, the Vicinity LT, is now available in electric propulsion ("EV") and gasoline versions for purchase and delivery in 2021. The EV design includes world-class technology partners hofer powertrain and LION Smart, which integrates a BMW battery system utilizing proven, existing automotive technology. The development and production of a mid-sized, low floor, fully electric transit bus with proven, readily available technology that can accommodate up to four wheelchair positions is a huge step forward for our Company and the transit industry. As for liquidity and deliveries, our 2020 financial result expectations were reduced after the onset of COVID-19. Our last published updated target of delivering 150 buses in 2020 was based on being able to deliver an order of approximately 90 buses before the end of the year. Delays due to COVID-19 at our suppliers and a lack of available shipping containers will shift a portion of this large order to being delivered in the first quarter of 2021. We will provide a corporate update on this order before the end of the year. Our operations remain healthy and we are currently looking to expand our Company through the building of a manufacturing plant in the U.S. The Company is gaining significant momentum and the outlook for Grande West growth remains very positive."

Recent Developments and Subsequent Events
In February of 2020, the Company announced that it received a new contract from its U.S. distributor, Atlanta-based Alliance Bus Group ("ABG") for new bus orders with a value of approximately $40M CAD. Grande West will deliver the Purpose-Built Vicinity Buses in the fourth quarter of 2020 and first quarter of 2021. The new buses will replace an old fleet currently operating throughout multiple locations in the USA with a world-class business and bus operator.

In October of 2020, the Company renewed its revolving credit facility agreement for a three-year term with a financial institution for a maximum amount of $20 million. The credit facility bears interest at a rate of 0.75% – 1% plus Canadian prime rate for loans denominated in Canadian dollars and 0.75% – 1% plus U.S. prime rate for loans denominated in U.S. dollars. Per the terms of the agreement, the Company must maintain a fixed charge coverage ratio if the Company borrows over 75% of the available facility.

In November of 2020, the Company announced a partnership with LION Smart GmbH to integrate BMW technology as its electric vehicle solution. The Contract between Grande West Transportation and Lion Smart includes engineering services covering software, mechanical and electrical adaptation, battery management and the integration of 400V BMW battery packs into the Vicinity LT EV. The demonstration Vicinity LT EV is scheduled for delivery to Grande West in the first quarter of 2021.

In November of 2020, the Company announced a partnership with hofer powertrain, a German drivetrain system supplier, to integrate the electric vehicle powertrain and management solution into its Vicinity EV buses. This partnership will allow Grande West to expedite Vicinity EV production to customers for 2021 deliveries.

In November of 2020, the Company closed a private placement for 8,659,118 units at a price of $1.00 per unit. Each unit is comprised of one common share of the Company and one-half of one share purchase warrant. Each warrant will allow the holder to acquire an additional common share of the Company at a price of $1.50 per share for a period of two years from the date of closing of the placement.

COVID-19 Update
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and global market volatility, the Company has activated robust business continuity plans to minimize disruptions to business and to adapt to evolving market conditions. The Company's top priority is the health and safety of its staff, customers, and the communities in which it operates. Grande West has taken appropriate precautions in this regard and has continued to deliver parts and services to meet its customers' needs. The Company is following the advice of health authorities in each jurisdiction where it operates. Grande West has implemented social distancing, team separation, and extensive work-from-home initiatives, as well as eliminated all non-essential travel.

Management is monitoring the situation very closely and is evaluating the impact the virus will have on the Company's delivery schedule. Some expected 2020 sales to private operators have been delayed as a result of the pandemic. Our last published updated target of delivering 150 buses in 2020 was based on being able to receive an order of approximately 90 buses from our manufacturer before the end of the year. Delays due to COVID-19 at our suppliers and a lack of available shipping containers will shift a portion of this large order to being delivered in the first quarter of 2021. The Company's manufacturing partner overseas is operating and currently producing to meet the Company's needs. Our U.S. manufacturing partner temporarily idled operations. This will slow down Buy America production deliveries until the facility is back online and operating at full capacity. Although deliveries out of the U.S. may be delayed, the purchase orders are firm and are still targeted to be delivered in 2020.

Our supply chain is currently able to provide us with the necessary components for production and aftermarket part sales but there is a risk of potential disruptions. Our aftermarket parts division will continue operating and servicing all our customers.

The Company remains well-positioned to serve its customers. As conditions evolve, Grande West will adjust plans to align with business continuity protocols and ensure employee, customer, and community health and safety are the highest priority. Credit lines remain active, allowing the Company access to capital, however Grande West recognizes that the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and government or customer reactions could ultimately be materially disruptive.

Grande West is taking significant actions to control where it can, particularly surrounding costs and capital investments. The Company has started reductions with senior management, where salaries were reduced effective April 1, 2020. The Company has also implemented strict cost containment measures throughout the organization, including freezing recruiting activities and minimizing all discretionary costs. Grande West is taking proactive measures to actively control working capital and retain cash throughout the COVID-19 crisis.

The Canadian Government has implemented policies giving aid to businesses due to COVID-19, as a result the Company has received $543,654 in aid during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 which was recognized as a decrease in salary expenses.

William Trainer, President and CEO of Grande West stated, "We continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation closely and we are responding swiftly and effectively to protect the interests of our stakeholders. I am confident that our skilled and loyal workforce, the diversification and strength of our business model, and our strong partner relationship will position us well to navigate the current environment."

Outlook
Management expects to maintain its strong market segment leadership position in Canada and continue to make progress in the U.S. with private operators and public transit agencies. The external pressures to "right-size" vehicles for its application and ridership levels along with the availability of funding in Canada and the U.S. create an ideal environment for Grande West to prosper. Once we are through the current COVID-19 pandemic, the outlook for Grande West, including significant growth in the U.S., remains very positive.

During 2017 and 2018, the Company achieved record revenues. We experienced a decline in the backlog during 2018 mainly due to lower order intake, which impacted 2019 results. Bid activity during 2019 was significantly higher than in 2018, which will translate into higher 2020 sales. We are maintaining our strong leadership position in our market segment in Canada and we continue to make progress in the U.S. market. During the first nine months of 2020 we completed and delivered six of our first Buy America orders and others are just completing production. We have received further Buy America orders for deliveries starting in 2021.

Approved funding for transit in the U.S. and Canada prior to the pandemic was high. Both countries have approved emergency funding for transit as a result of COVID-19. In Canada, dedicated funding of $1.8 billion for public transit has been included in the safe restart agreement among the federal, provincial, and territorial governments. In the U.S. the Federal government has awarded $25 billion in emergency funding grants to public transportation systems. $15.75 billion was also announced as part of the Heroes Act providing additional transit funding.

In the U.S. the Consolidated Appropriations Act was passed for 2020 and continues elevated funding levels with more than $13 billion allocated for public transportation and intercity passenger rail.

In Canada in 2017, the federal government allocated $21.1 billion over 11 years to transit construction, expansion and rehabilitation. The 2019 Liberal platform included a plan to enable procurement of 5,000 electric transit and school buses over the next five years.

The medium and long-term recovery of the Company's end markets from the COVID-19 pandemic are currently unknown but are expected to be dependent on government support, COVID-19 case rates, manufacturing and supply chain capabilities, travel restrictions and economic reopening activity. The Company has implemented a robust risk management process to ensure the health and safety of its employees and continued access to supply chain materials, but the ongoing nature of the pandemic may adversely impact results in the future.

Part of our strategic plan is to expand our product line by adding a 100% zero-emission electric propulsion system to our existing Vicinity bus models and adding the Vicinity LT bus model to our product lineup. The Vicinity electric bus will place Grande West in an excellent position to capture market share as the demand for zero-emissions buses grows. Our smaller LT bus model will provide Grande West access to the high-end cutaway bus market segment. Municipalities of all sizes across Canada and the U.S. along with private operators in multiple sectors are looking for a more robust low-floor accessible bus to replace their cutaways.

Aftermarket parts sales are expected to continue to increase as Vicinity bus fleets get older and new vehicles are placed into service.

Stock Options
The Company also announces that it has granted 200,000 incentive stock options to eligible Directors as part of their annual compensation package at an exercise price of $2.05 for a period of five years. The options vest immediately.

Grande West Vicinity Lightning Electric Vehicle
The Vicinity Lightning EV, the first electric bus for Grande West, is the newest model in the Grande West portfolio and is officially being introduced to the world. We are pleased to invite interested listeners to a presentation given by the Company at the quarterly conference call following our financial and corporate update on Tuesday, November 24.

Financial Statements and Management's Discussion and Analysis can be accessed at sedar.com

Conference Call
A conference call for analysts and interested listeners will be held on Tuesday, November 24 at 11:00 AM EST. The call-in number is (877) 407-0782 or (201) 689-8567, the webcast can be accessed at https://www.webcaster4.com/Webcast/Page/2233/38806 . A replay of the call will be available for 30 days at the webcast link or by calling (877) 481-4010 and entering PIN# 38806.

About Grande West Transportation Group
Grande West Transportation is a Canadian company that designs and engineers mid-size multi-purpose transit vehicles for public and commercial enterprises. Grande West utilizes world-class manufacturing partners to produce the Purpose-Built Vicinity bus available in clean diesel, gas, and CNG drive systems. The Vicinity Lightning EV with an electric propulsion drive system is available for 2021 deliveries.

The Company has been successful in supplying Canadian municipal transportation agencies and private operators with new buses. Grande West is compliant to Buy America certification, and with a strong distribution chain in the U.S., is actively pursuing opportunities in public and private transit fleet operations that would benefit from Grande West's vehicles.

www.grandewest.com

For investor relations, please contact:
Paradox Public Relations Inc.
Karl Mansour
Managing Director
Ph: (514) 341-0408 or 1-866-460-0408
IR@grandewest.com

Company contact:
Grande West Transportation
John LaGourgue
VP Corporate Development
Ph: 604-288-8043
IR@grandewest.com

Neither the TSX-V nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX-V) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This press release includes certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein, including without limitation, statements regarding the use of proceeds from the Private Placement, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "potential", "possible", and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions, or results "will", "may", "could", or "should" occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements involve various risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements.

Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Grande West's expectations include uncertainties relating to the receipt of final approval from the TSX-V; and other risk and uncertainties disclosed in Grande West's reports and documents filed with applicable securities regulatory authorities from time to time. Grande West's forward-looking statements reflect the beliefs, opinions and projections on the date the statements are made. Grande West assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements or beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by law.

SOURCE: Grande West Transportation Group

ReleaseID: 618083

PHOENIX, AZ / ACCESSWIRE / November 23, 2020 / Crexendo, Inc. (NASDAQ:CXDO), an award-winning premier provider of cloud communications, UCaaS (Unified Communications as a Service), call center, collaboration services, and other cloud business services that are designed to provide enterprise-class cloud services to any size business at affordable monthly rates, today announced that it has appointed Jon Brinton to the position of Chief Revenue Officer. Brinton will oversee revenue operations, direct sales and channel sales, including Value-Added Resellers (VARs) and Agents.

Steven G. Mihaylo, Chief Executive Officer commented "Jon is an exceptional executive with a track record of improving operations and driving revenue. He has a world class entrepreneurial mind and is driven to improve our sales results. Jon will work aggressively to add additional driven direct sales and channel sales agents. He comes to work, rolls up his sleeves and wants to add value to the organization and particularly to add shareholder value. He will be an exceptional addition to our team. This is one of many steps we are making to invest in and grow our business".

Doug Gaylor, President and COO said "Jon has a proven track record of leading and motivating high-performing sales teams. Our investment in Jon shows our focus on accelerating the success of Crexendo and our Ride the Cloud™ world class systems and products. Jon will immediately begin to work to win new Cloud Communications customers and will continue to grow our Channel Partner Program, while extending the sales reach of our products and services. I am very excited to have Jon join the team".

Most recently, Brinton was Vice President of Channel Sales for North America for Avaya. Prior to joining Avaya, Brinton served in various Senior Executive roles at Mitel. Amongst those, he served as President of the Cloud Division from its formation in 2011 and grew the division to attain the #2 Global Market share position for Unified Communications as a Service users globally over a period of six years. In addition, Brinton held other Senior Executive roles including managing the Contact Center line of business amongst other responsibilities within Mitel. Brinton's 25 years of industry experience also includes serving in Senior Leadership roles with Inter-Tel.

Brinton commented "I am very excited to join Crexendo. This is an exciting time in the company's history, and I appreciate the organization that Steve, Doug and the rest of the team have built to date. It is great to join a company that is so focused on serving its customers and Partners. In addition, I was highly impressed with the award winning Crexendo Ride the Cloud™ solutions. In the current world environment where "Work from Anywhere" is so important, Crexendo's solutions are a critical component in facilitating effective communications within our customer's organizations while providing them with the tools they need to support their end customer's effectively. I am excited to be joining the team and will be working to drive revenue growth and increase shareholder value."

About Crexendo

Crexendo, Inc. is an award-winning premier provider of UCaaS (Unified Communications as a Service), call center, collaboration services, and other cloud business services that are designed to provide enterprise-class cloud services to any size business at affordable monthly rates.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements. The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a "safe harbor" for such forward-looking statements. The words "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "will" and other similar statements of expectation identify forward-looking statements. Specific forward-looking statements in this press release include information about Crexendo (i) having Brinton be an exceptional executive with a track record of improving operations and driving revenue as well as having a world class entrepreneurial mind; (ii) believing that Brinton will improve sales results and add additional driven direct sales and channel sales agents; (iii) that Brinton will add value to the organization and particularly add shareholder value; (iv) having Brinton be an exceptional addition to the team; (v) having the hire as one of many steps in investing in and growing the business; (vi) retaining Brinton due to a proven track record of leading and motivating high-performing sales teams; (vii) having the hire of Brinton show its willingness to invest in accelerating its success and that that he will aggressively work to win new Cloud Communications customers and continue to grow the Channel Partner Program, while extending the sales reach of services; (viii) believing this is an exciting time in the company's history; (ix) being a company that is so focused on serving its customers and Partners; (x) believing that in the current world environment where "Work from Anywhere" is so important its solutions are a critical component in facilitating effective communications within our customer's organizations while providing them with the tools they need to support their end customer's effectively and (xi) Brinton will be working to drive revenue growth and increase shareholder value.

For a more detailed discussion of risk factors that may affect Crexendo's operations and results, please refer to the company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019, and quarterly Form 10-Qs as filed with the SEC. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which such statements are made, and the company undertakes no obligation to update such forward-looking statements, except as required by law.

CONTACT:

Crexendo, Inc.
Doug Gaylor
President and Chief Operating Officer
602-732-7990
dgaylor@crexendo.com

SOURCE: Crexendo, Inc.

ReleaseID: 618030

James Feldkamp Discusses Cyber Security in the Stay at Home Economy

ARLINGTON, VA / ACCESSWIRE / November 23, 2020 / James Feldkamp is a cybersecurity expert who has over 30 years of experience working in the military and the federal government. Here are his tips to stay safe from a cyberattack while you work from home.

James Feldkamp on Cybersecurity and the Stay at Home Economy

The national quarantine and the rise of the stay-at-home economy have led to a massive increase in the amount of legitimate business being done online – which of course has led to an increase in fraudulent activity as well. There has been a spike in phishing attacks, Malspams, and ransomware attacks. These hackers are impersonating businesses and coercing customers or employees into handing over sensitive information. James Feldkamp suggests that anyone working from home should be on high alert for suspicious emails and other communications. Some hackers are easy to spot, and some are not. Some will use broken English, while others will have you convinced that you're speaking to a friend or colleague. James Feldkamp has seen it all and he warns those working from home to be wary of potential dangers.

James Feldkamp on What You Can Do to Protect Yourself

Sometimes staying alert isn't enough. Hackers have gotten more sophisticated since the early days of the world wide web and sometimes it can be hard to spot a threat until it's too late. James Feldkamp suggests a holistic approach to cybersecurity. First, you should make sure all your important documents are backed up and your sensitive data is encrypted. You can never be too careful when it comes to your data, especially when it's company information. Through his work with the federal government, James Feldkamp saw how cybercriminals can infiltrate even the most technologically secure databases and gain access to sensitive information. That's why he wants to warn you of the dangers.

The next thing James Feldkamp suggests you update the virus protection on your computer as well as your hardware if necessary. The older your hardware or operating system, the more vulnerable you are to attack. Programmers have come a long way in designing products that are tough to breach, but you won't benefit from the latest technologies unless you have them installed and updated. Older technology is not only easier to infiltrate, but it's also harder to fix if something goes wrong. The last thing you want to do right now is taking your computer to the shop and go days or weeks without it. Upgrading your technology before you are forced to may save you a major headache in the long run.

The cybersecurity threat in the stay-at-home economy is real, but as long as you follow James Feldkamp's advice, you'll have nothing to worry about.

CONTACT:

Caroline Hunter
Web Presence, LLC
+1 7865519491

SOURCE: Jim Feldkamp

ReleaseID: 618045

NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / November 23, 2020 / Tera Carissa Hodges has built her business around empowerment. Whether it be people, brands, ministries, or businesses, Tera's focus is on identifying their story to further reinvent and build it into something great. She offers her services through her media company, LR (Life Redefined).

"My company is all about embracing where you are to get to where you are going through media: social media, traditional media, mainstream media, and faith-based media. It's built around my undergraduate degree; broadcast journalism while other businesses, projects, and professional endeavors are built around my post-undergrad degrees, licenses, and certifications," Tera outlines.

Since she was young, Tera has been writing, and after having her first article professionally published at 16 years old, Tera has always worked in media. After seeing so many people around her, not knowing how to reinvent their lives, brands, and media presence, Tera was quickly propelled to launch her company. Her belief that people should be in charge of their own self-image motivated her to help others find the same clarity.

"Why would you allow a storm, the past, or anything that doesn't positively impact you, define you? These things should never become your identity or the main narrator of your life's path, your ministry, your business, your media presence. I believe that people decide what they do to you. You decide who you choose to become afterwards," Tera says.

Even with a strongly defined self-image, Tera admits that challenges will still come your way. One significant one is the struggle of keeping one's vision clear, even as it changes throughout time.

"While your vision may change or evolve as you go, as long as you're clear on what it is at any time, you can accomplish anything," Tera explains.

Alongside a clear vision, Tera instructs her clients to have a set mindset.

"Your mindset has to be determined, committed, and focused. You may be laughed at, talked about, lied on, misjudged, criticized, or doubted. Despite this, I tell my clients that a person more committed to their vision than they are the opinion of people will accomplish their goals, in spite of, every time," Tera says.

With this in mind, it would seem that Tera would be able to tackle any obstacle that comes her way. In fact, this is not the case – but not for the reason you would expect. In reality, this is because Tera does not frame her challenges as obstacles but rather as opportunities.

"I refuse to acknowledge anything or anybody as an obstacle. That's too much power to give anything or anybody. People may have wanted to become an obstacle. However, I see everything and everybody as an opportunity, or as my faith reminds me, a footstool. The only thing anything or anybody can do for me is elevate me," Tera outlines.

When asked about fear, Tera again has an original approach to a normally very universal topic. To her, fear is equal to research. While some people encounter fear and run, Tera recognizes fear trying to introduce itself to her, and instead of running, she "interviews" it, asking and meditating on why fear has presented itself at this point in time.

"What is it trying to protect me from? What is it trying to talk me out of accomplishing and why? I then use that information to fear proof my vision, my commitment by fortifying it with the information I have gleaned by answering those questions so if anything I "fear" comes up, the solution is already in place," Tera explains.

As is already clear in her philosophies around vision, mindset, and fear, Tera is a truly original thinker. While this allows her to stay true to herself, this also helps her business, as she's able to offer original and targeted services to her clients.

"I keep being original. I let competitors choose to imitate myself–and others, to their own detriment. As long as you are copying me, you'll always be behind me, waiting on my next move. It's innovators who make history, not knock-offs," Tera says.

This December, Tera is excited to be launching her new project, House of Carissa. Be sure to check it out online, as well as her media company, LR (Life Redefined) Global Media Group.

Follow Tera herself on Instagram to keep up to date with her newest successes.

CONTACT:
Paula Henderson
646-736-2071
phendersonnews@gmail.com

About VIP Media Group:

VIP Media Group is a hybrid PR agency. Their diverse client base includes top-class entrepreneurs, public figures, influencers, and celebrities.

SOURCE: VIP Media Group

ReleaseID: 618031

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL / ACCESSWIRE / November 23, 2020 / With a death toll which now stands at 250,000 in the United States; casinos and slot parlors in Illinois have been told to close their doors for the second time, as there has been a surge in cases in recent weeks.

The report from CDC Gaming Reports reported that the state had recorded infections of over 10,000 for 12 days and there appears to be over 265,000 people currently suffering from the virus.

There are ten riverboat casinos, as well as 7,135 slot location in Illinois who have been informed that they need to re-enter a lockdown, after already experiencing a 15-week shutdown as a result of the virus at the start of the year. There is no specific date for lifting the lockdown, as there is still uncertainty as to how or when the virus will come to an end.

The strict move for Illinois follows the restrictions placed on Michigan who have been ordered to close down their commercial casinos in Detroit. Other states have put stricter restrictions in place to try and protect their customers from the virus, but it remains to be seen as to whether these states will also be put into full lockdown in the future.

Home of the casinos, Las Vegas, is also experiencing a worrying surge in Covid-19 cases. The governor of the state of Nevada has been actively encouraging residents to wear masks, and there is concern that December and January will be even worse due to holidays, the cold weather and a change in attitude towards the virus.

With the closure of casinos, and the increase in people staying at home, together with financial hardship, there has been a surge in the number of people turning to online gambling.

With casinos closing throughout the globe, the industry is now benefiting from a surge in online gambling, which is a result of people spending more time at home and being short on funds.

Although the gaming industry is being hit hard, those who have an online facility may be experiencing huge benefits from the lockdown.

City: Fort Lauderdale
Name: James Morrison
Phone: +1 (802) 281-4829
Email Prmediaonline@gmail.com

SOURCE: Pro Media News SLR

ReleaseID: 618004

MISSION, KS / ACCESSWIRE / November 23, 2020 / With so many traditions and ways to celebrate the holiday season, the options are nearly endless for families looking to spend special moments together. One of the tastiest and most enjoyable activities you can engage in with family and friends is to team up and create sweet eats in the kitchen.

Whether you're a chocolate lover or prefer traditional seasonal flavors like peppermint and gingerbread, these tasty, dairy-inspired treats from Milk Means More provide heartwarming ways to tingle your taste buds while bringing everyone together.

Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding provides a sweet, fruity, hearty dessert while Peppermint Cheesecake Brownies combine chocolatey goodness with creamy cheesecake and peppermint. Or, for a classic holiday combination, you can turn to Gingerbread Cupcakes with Whipped Vanilla Buttercream.

Find more ways to celebrate the season with sweet eats at milkmeansmore.org.

Peppermint Cheesecake Brownies

Recipe courtesy of Sarah Bates of "The Chef Next Door" on behalf of Milk Means More

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 30 minutes

Servings: 16

Nonstick cooking spray

Cheesecake Batter:

8 ounces low-fat cream cheese, at room temperature
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
2 eggs
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

Brownie Batter:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup milk
2 eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Topping:

1/2 cup peppermint baking pieces

Preheat oven to 350 F. Coat 8-inch square baking pan with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.

To make cheesecake batter: Place cream cheese in bowl of stand mixer. Beat on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Add sugar and peppermint extract; beat well. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add flour and beat mixture until blended.

To make brownie batter: In medium bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder and salt until combined. In separate bowl, whisk sugar, oil, milk, eggs and vanilla until well combined. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix until blended.

Pour brownie batter evenly into prepared pan. Carefully pour cheesecake batter over top, spreading evenly. Carefully swirl layers together using knife tip. Bake 20 minutes.

Sprinkle top of brownies with peppermint baking pieces and bake 10 minutes until brownies are set. Cool brownies completely in pan on wire rack before cutting into 16 squares.

Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding

Recipe courtesy of Kirsten Kubert of "Comfortably Domestic" on behalf of Milk Means More

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 65 minutes

Servings: 12

Pudding:

1 loaf Texas toast or day-old bread
1-2 tablespoons softened butter
1 1/2 cups fresh cranberries
6 eggs
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3 1/2 cups 2% milk
1 teaspoon freshly grated orange zest
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 1/2 tablespoons coarse granulated sugar (optional)

Orange Custard Sauce:

3 egg yolks
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 cup half-and-half
1/2 teaspoon freshly grated orange zest

To make pudding: Cut bread into bite-sized cubes. If bread is soft and fresh, place cubes on half sheet pan and let stand at room temperature overnight to dry out.

Preheat oven to 375 F.

Grease 13-by-9-by-2-inch baking dish with softened butter. Place bread cubes in prepared baking pan. Scatter cranberries over bread.

Beat eggs with sugar, milk, orange zest, orange juice, melted butter, vanilla and cinnamon until well blended. Pour evenly over bread and cranberries to coat. Sprinkle with coarse sugar, if desired. Bake 60-65 minutes, or until custard is set and edges of bread are browned.

To make orange custard sauce: In small saucepan, whisk egg yolks with sugar until lightened to pale yellow color, about 2 minutes. Stir half-and-half into mixture until combined. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, 15-20 minutes, or until sauce thickens enough to coat spoon. Stir orange zest into custard sauce.

Serve bread pudding with warm custard sauce over top.

Gingerbread Cupcakes with Whipped Vanilla Buttercream

Recipe courtesy of Megan Gundy of "What Megan's Making" on behalf of Milk Means More

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 25 minutes

Servings: 20

Cupcakes:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tablespoons ground ginger
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
3 tablespoons molasses
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Whipped Vanilla Buttercream:

1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
4 cups powdered sugar
2-4 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
1 pinch salt
cinnamon, for topping

Adjust oven rack to lower-middle position and preheat oven to 350 F. Line muffin pan with cupcake liners. Set aside.

To make cupcakes: In medium bowl, whisk flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and salt.

In large bowl of stand mixer, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add molasses and beat until incorporated. Beat in eggs, one at a time, then beat in vanilla. Add flour mixture and mix on low speed until just combined.

Divide batter evenly among muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Bake 30 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center cupcake comes out clean or with moist crumbs. Let cupcakes cool 10 minutes then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.

To make whipped vanilla buttercream: In large bowl of stand mixer, beat butter on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add vanilla and, with mixer on low, slowly add in powdered sugar, cream and salt, scraping down sides of bowl as needed. Once incorporated, whip frosting at least 3 minutes on medium-high or high speed. If frosting is too thick, gradually beat in additional cream. Pipe on top of cooled cupcakes and sprinkle with cinnamon.

Contact:

Michael French
mfrench@familyfeatures.com
1-888-824-3337
editors.familyfeatures.com

About Family Features Editorial Syndicate

A leading source for high-quality food, lifestyle and home and garden content, Family Features provides readers with topically and seasonally relevant tips, takeaways, information, recipes, videos, infographics and more. Find additional articles and information at Culinary.net and eLivingToday.com.

SOURCE: Family Features

ReleaseID: 617999

MISSION, KS / ACCESSWIRE / November 23, 2020 / Holiday gatherings, even in a time when smaller groups are encouraged, take on special meaning for many families. Part of the joy comes from the food that's shared among loved ones from appetizers and sides to the main course.

This year, you can enjoy those meaningful moments with your closest family members and friends by putting together a menu that keeps smiles on faces from the first bite to the last. Start with your favorite among the nearly endless appetizer options that symbolize the season then enjoy a tender tri-tip alongside bacon-wrapped asparagus and a twist on classic, roasted potatoes.

Visit Culinary.net to find more holiday menu ideas.

Start Your Seasonal Celebration with Small Bites

While main courses, sides and desserts may be what holiday memories are made of, you can calm family members' and guests' appetites with an array of appetizers like these:

Meatballs
Stuffed mushrooms
Stuffed peppers
Sliced cheese
Sliced meats
Crackers
Spinach dip
Cheesy bread
Sliders
Little smokies
Fresh fruit and vegetables

A Simply Tasty Side

Many recipes commonly associated with the holidays are accompanied by lengthy ingredient lists or hours spent in the kitchen. However, all that time and effort doesn't have to be used on this year's side dish when you opt for a simple yet mouthwatering option.

You can feel good about what you're feeding your family this holiday season while saving prep time by serving this Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus made with Coleman Natural bacon, which contains no artificial ingredients or preservatives and is sourced from American family farms that humanely raise their animals with no antibiotics or added hormones. Whether it's served as a side dish or an appetizer, it calls for just a handful of everyday ingredients for a dish you can be proud of.

Visit ColemanNatural.com/Recipes for more seasonal recipe inspiration.

Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus

Servings: 10

20 asparagus stalks
10 slices Coleman Natural Hickory Smoked Bacon
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper

Preheat oven to 400 F. Line rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

Wrap 2 asparagus stalks with 1 slice bacon. Repeat with remaining asparagus and bacon. Place bundles on baking sheet. Drizzle asparagus ends with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Bake until asparagus is cooked through and bacon is crisp, about 20 minutes.

A Tender Holiday Tri-Tip

Centering your holiday meal around a flavorful cut of meat can make the celebration truly memorable, especially when it's cooked to perfection over the hot flame of a grill.

This year, take your family's main course to the next level with a Garlic Herb Tri-Tip lightly seasoned with garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt and pepper to let the naturally flavorful New Zealand grass-fed beef speak for itself. Because the animals roam and graze freely over lush green hills and pastures year-round, New Zealand grass-fed beef is leaner, more finely textured and tastes just as nature intended.

Find more recipes and holiday meal ideas at beefandlambnz.com.

Garlic Herb Tri-Tip

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 30 minutes

Servings: 6

1 New Zealand grass-fed beef tri-tip (2 1/2-3 pounds)
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons minced garlic
3 tablespoons fresh chopped thyme
3 tablespoons fresh chopped rosemary
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons black pepper

Preheat grill to high heat.

Rub tri-tip with olive oil. Add minced garlic and use hands to evenly distribute.

Combine chopped thyme, rosemary, salt and pepper; cover oiled tri-tip on both sides with spice blend.

Place tri-tip on hottest part of grill and sear 2-3 minutes.

Flip tri-tip and transfer to indirect heat. Continue grilling until internal temperature reaches 135 F for medium-rare.

Transfer meat to platter, cover with foil and let rest 10 minutes.

Slice across the grain and serve.

An Easy but Impressive Side

Every holiday meal comes with plenty of traditional and family-favorite dishes, and one of the most common on tables is potatoes. Whether they're roasted, mashed or anything in-between, they're among the most versatile options for the holidays.

This year, you can save time on seasonal favorites with Creamer potatoes from The Little Potato Company. They are ready to use, with no washing or peeling required, and they're small and consistent in size so they cook quickly.

Try them roasted, boiled, smashed or mashed whether you're making a quick weeknight dinner or getting a festive meal on the table. This holiday season, try these Little Hasselback Potatoes for a twist on the classic roasted variety. For an easy cooking hack, slice the potatoes on a wooden spoon to prevent cutting all the way through.

Visit littlepotatoes.com for more holiday recipe inspiration.

Little Hasselback Potatoes

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

Servings: 8-12

1 bag (3 pounds) The Little Potato Company Holiday Blend
10 sprigs thyme, removed from stem
6 sprigs parsley, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
Sour cream (optional)
Cooked bacon pieces (optional)
Green onion slices (optional)

Preheat oven to 400 F.

Lay wooden spoon flat on solid surface and place one potato in spoon. Using paring knife, slice 1/8-inch thick slices along length of each potato one at a time.

In bowl, toss potatoes, thyme, parsley, garlic, olive oil, salt and pepper. Place potatoes on parchment-lined baking sheet, cut sides down. Bake 10 minutes, flip and bake 10 minutes, or until soft.

Serve with sour cream, bacon and green onion, if desired.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (Holiday small bites)

Contact:

Michael French
mfrench@familyfeatures.com
1-888-824-3337
editors.familyfeatures.com

About Family Features Editorial Syndicate

A leading source for high-quality food, lifestyle and home and garden content, Family Features provides readers with topically and seasonally relevant tips, takeaways, information, recipes, videos, infographics and more. Find additional articles and information at Culinary.net and eLivingToday.com.

SOURCE: Family Features

ReleaseID: 617997

FORT MYERS, FL / ACCESSWIRE / November 23, 2020 / FineMark Holdings, Inc. (the "Company") (OTCQX:FNBT), the parent company of FineMark National Bank & Trust, is pleased to announce that the Company has completed a private placement of $21.3 million in aggregate principal amount of fixed-to-floating rate subordinated notes due 2030 (the "Notes") to certain qualified institutional buyers and accredited investors.

The Notes have been structured to qualify as Tier 2 capital for regulatory capital purposes. The Notes are unsecured and have a ten-year term, maturing November 30, 2030, and will bear interest at a fixed annual rate of 4.25%, payable semi-annually in arrears, until November 30, 2025. From and including November 30, 2025, the interest rate will reset quarterly to an interest rate per annum equal to the then current three-month Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("Three-Month SOFR"), plus a spread of 400.6 basis points, payable quarterly in arrears, provided, however, that, in the event the Three-Month SOFR is less than zero, the Three-Month SOFR shall be deemed to be zero. As provided in the Notes, under specified conditions, the interest rate on the Notes during the Floating Rate Period may be determined based upon a rate other than Three-Month SOFR. The Company may redeem the Notes, in whole or in part, on any interest payment date on or after November 30, 2025, or at any time in whole upon certain other specified events. The Notes received a BBB- rating from Kroll Bond Rating Agency.

The Company intends to use the net proceeds to refinance existing indebtedness, growth capital for FineMark National Bank & Trust and for other general corporate purposes.

FineMark Holdings, Inc. CFO Brian Eagleston stated "we are very pleased with the work completed by Commerce Street Capital and PNC FIG Advisory acting as joint-placement agents. Alston & Bird LLP served as legal counsel to the Company and Pillar+Aught served as legal counsel for the placement agents."

About the FineMark Holdings, Inc. and FineMark National Bank & Trust

FineMark Holdings, Inc. is the parent company of FineMark National Bank & Trust. Founded in 2007, FineMark National Bank & Trust is a nationally chartered bank, headquartered in Florida. Through its offices located in Florida, Arizona and South Carolina, FineMark offers a full range of financial services, including personal and business banking, lending services, trust and investment services. The Corporation's common stock trades on the OTCQX under the symbol FNBT. Investor information is available on the Corporation's website at www.finemarkbank.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release may contain certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You can identify forward-looking statements by the use of the words "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "estimate," "assume," "outlook," "will," "should," and other expressions that predict or indicate future events and trends and which do not relate to historical matters. You should not rely on forward-looking statements because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond our control. These risks, uncertainties and other factors may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the anticipated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements.

Some of the factors that might cause these differences include: weakness in national, regional or international economic conditions or conditions affecting the banking or financial services industries or financial capital markets; volatility in national and international financial markets; reductions in net interest income resulting from interest rate volatility as well as changes in the balance and mix of loans and deposits; reductions in the market value or outflows of assets under administration; changes in the value of securities and other assets; reductions in loan demand; changes in loan collectability, default and charge-off rates; changes in the size and nature of our competition; changes in legislation or regulation and accounting principles, policies and guidelines; occurrences of cyber-attacks, hacking and identity theft; natural disasters; and changes in the assumptions used in making such forward-looking statements. Further, the adverse effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Company, its customers and the communities where it operates may adversely affect the Company's business, results of operations and financial condition for an indefinite period of time. You should carefully review all of these factors and you should be aware that there might be other factors that could cause these differences.

These forward-looking statements were based on information, plans and estimates at the date of this report. We assume no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect changes in underlying assumptions or factors, new information, future events or other changes.

Contact:
Brian Eagleston
Chief Financial Officer
FineMark National Bank & Trust
239-461-5916
beagleston@finemarkbank.com

SOURCE: FineMark Holdings, Inc.

ReleaseID: 617996