Published 01-13-21

Submitted by Arcos Dorados Holdings

Despite the global context and with the adjustments needed to comply with the new normality, the solidarity campaign that donates proceeds from Big Mac sales to support dozens of institutions and projects exceeded by far the established goals.

In the new edition of the Gran Dia, the company reinforced its commitment to keep families together and to promote first formal job opportunities in the region.

January 13, 2021 /CSRwire/- Arcos Dorados, the worlds largest independent McDonalds franchisee, operating the largest quick-service restaurant chain in Latin America and the Caribbean, announces the results of the Gran Da* (Big Day) 2020 edition, the campaign where all the proceeds from the days Big Mac sales in its 20 markets are donated to collaborate with children and young people from local communities in all of those countries. This initiative enables the company to strengthen its ESG framework, known as Recipe for the Future, and the 2020 edition exceededits goals by raising a total of more than 5 million dollars to be distributed among dozens of social organizations.

As a result of this edition, Arcos Dorados was able to collaborate to keep together those families of children undergoing medical treatments housed in the Ronald McDonald Houses of the region, as well as the beneficiaries of the programs promoted by organizations such as the Ayrton Senna Institute (Brazil), Fundacin S (Argentina), Fundacin Coanil (Chile), Aldeas Infantiles SOS (Peru, Mxico, Panam, Costa Rica & Colombia), Fundacin El Tringulo (Ecuador), Liceo Impulso (Uruguay), Centro Man Na Obra (Aruba), Fonditut (Curacao), The Heroes Foundation (Trinidad) and P.E.C.E.S (Puerto Rico), amongst others.

For more than 10 years, at Arcos Dorados we have turned into action our commitment to the families and young people of the communities in which we operate. Today, we are proud to confirm that, despite the global context and the changes that we were forced to make as a society, peoples solidarity has been reinforced and that once again we managed to exceed our expectations. In a challenging year for everyone such as 2020, we were able to adapt and keep our main solidarity campaign of the year in full effect, which allows us to continue contributing to the health and well-being of children and opening doors so that more and more young people in America Latin America and the Caribbean have the chance to access a first formal job," stated Woods Staton, Executive Chairman of Arcos Dorados.

A different edition

In such a challenging year, Arcos Dorados adapted the celebration of its Gran Da to the new regulations, in order to maintain its commitment to the communities in which it operates.

That is why, for the 2020 edition, the company offered those interested the possibility of buying the coupons in advance through its digital channels, in addition to extending the period in which they could be redeemed and strengthen sales through AutoMac or McDelivery. With the aim of maintaining the festive spirit of the day, virtual events were held giving renowned artists the possibility of taking part, without breaking the social distancing.

Social commitment and sustainable development

ESG is part of Arcos Dorados DNA. In order to have a meaningful effect on the communities in which it operates and on the planet, the company has developed its social and environmental framework called Recipe for the Future (www.recetadelfuturo.com), focusing on five key pillars: Sustainable Sourcing, Climate Change, Packaging and Recycling, Youth Employment and Family Welfare. Guided by them, the company keeps its commitment to positively impact the wellbeing of employees and customers, offering personal development opportunities as well as contributing to local economies through a sustainable supply chain that strives to minimize the environmental impact of its proceeding.

* In Brazil, the initiative bears the name of "McDa Feliz" (Happy McDa)

About Arcos Dorados

Arcos Dorados is the worlds largest independent McDonalds franchisee, operating the largest quick-service restaurant chain in Latin America and the Caribbean. It has the exclusive right to own, operate and grant franchises of McDonalds restaurants in 20 Latin American and Caribbean countries and territories with more than 2,200 restaurants, operated by the Company or by its sub-franchisees, that together employ over 100 thousand people (as of 09/30/2020). The Company is also solidly committed to the development of the communities in which it operates, to providing young people their first formal job opportunities and to utilize its Scale for Good to achieve a positive environmental impact. Arcos Dorados is listed for trading on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: ARCO). To learn more about the Company, please visit our website:www.arcosdorados.com

Arcos Dorados is the world's largest independent McDonald's franchisee in terms of system-wide sales and number of locations. The company is the largest fast-service restaurant chain in Latin America and the Caribbean. You have the exclusive right to own, operate, and franchise McDonald's locations in 20 countries and territories in Latin America and the Caribbean, including Argentina, Aruba, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Curaao, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique , Mexico, Panama, Peru, Puerto Rico, St. Croix, St. Thomas, Trinidad and Tobago, Uruguay and Venezuela. The company operates or franchises more than 2,200 McDonald's restaurants with more than 90,000 employees and is known as one of the best companies to work for in Latin America. Arcos Dorados is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: ARCO).

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Arcos Dorados' Gran Da Donated More Than USD 5 Million in 2020 to Support Several Social Organizations in Latin America and the Caribbean -...

WhatsApp is facing a legal challenge in India, its biggest market, after a petition was filed Thursday before Delhi High Court over the upcoming change in the Facebook-owned apps data-sharing policy.

The petition alleges the new terms that WhatsApp requires its roughly 450 million users in the country to accept is a violation of their fundamental rights to privacy and poses a threat to national security.

Through an in-app alert, WhatsApp has asked users in recent days to agree to new terms of conditions that grants the app the consent to share with Facebook some personal data about them, such as their phone number and location.

Users will have to agree to these terms by February 8 if they wish to continue using the app, the alert said. The change has been mischaracterized by many as their personal communication being compromised, which WhatsApp clarified this week was not the case.

The Facebook-owned service, which serves over 2 billion users worldwide, said private conversations between people remain just as private as before. Facebook has also bought front-page newspaper ads in several leading Indian dailies this week to explain the change, which it first outlined last year.

The petitioner said the new terms grant WhatsApp a 360-degree profile into a persons online activity without any government oversight.

WhatsApp has made a mockery out of our fundamental right to privacy while discharging a public function in India, besides jeopardizing the National Security of the country by sharing, transmitting and storing the users data in some [other] country and that data, in turn, will be governed by the laws of that foreign country, the petition, which is expected to be heard Friday, reads.

Several high-profile startup founders and executives in India have also criticized WhatsApps new data-sharing policy. Vijay Shekhar Sharma, founder and chief executive of Indias most valuable startup Paytm, accused WhatsApp of operating with double standards, pointing to how the new change was not affecting the apps users in Europe.

The outrage over the new change has resulted in tens of millions of users exploring other communication apps such as Signal and Telegram in recent days. In an interview with TechCrunch earlier this week, Signal co-founder and chairman executive Brian Acton said the smallest of events helped trigger the largest of outcomes. Were also excited that we are having conversations about online privacy and digital safety and people are turning to Signal as the answer to those questions.

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WhatsApp faces legal challenge over privacy in its biggest market - TechCrunch

Companies in the Scottish Hospitality Group (SHG) have said they have taken on more than 16m of debt over the last year to stay afloat which, if multiplied across Scotland's 16,000 licensed premises, means the industry would be carrying a debt burden of between 800m and 1.2b.

It is expected that this figure will rise "significantly" due to the "worst ever" December trading figures and a "major shortfall" in government support.

The debt is a combination of CBILS (coronavirus business interruption loans), bank loans, overdrafts and payment deferrals to pay property and equipment rent, among other fixed costs, and is set to severely impact on firms' ability to bounce back from the pandemic and invest for recovery.

Stephen Montgomery, spokesperson for SHG, said: "Our members don't have their usual Christmas reserves to see them through the quieter months and government help doesn't even cover the costs of employer furlough contributions for most operators. This debt is necessary to keep jobs alive, but it will come at a heavy price to the sector, and that's if we even survive.

"It's another reminder of why both governments need to stop playing politics with lifeline support for the sector. This week we've seen Kate Forbes re-announce 25,000 each for bigger operators, which she already announced and agreed with the sector in December before the Boxing Day lockdown. And last week we had Rishi Sunak admitting his 375m wasn't new money.

"Both sides are at it and this confusing, conflicting behaviour needs to end. Businesses must have clarity and honesty about what's available and for that help to be in their hands much quicker than it has been so far."

Meanwhile, the industry welcomed the launch of a Scottish government-funded leadership, management and supervisory training programme.

The new Tourism and Hospitality Talent Development Programme, which will be delivered by the Hospitality Industry Trust (HIT) Scotland and the Scottish Tourism Alliance (STA), seeks to motivate and develop top talent to support the sector's recovery.

The virtual programme was one of the key recommendations of the tourism task force. There will be 975 places available across three categories supervisor, manager and leader open to anyone over the age of 16 working in the Scottish tourism and hospitality industry.

The programme is now open for applications with a closing date of 5 February and it is scheduled to commence on 16 February.

David Cochrane, chief executive of HIT Scotland, said: "The tourism and hospitality industries continue to deal with the many challenges that Covid-19 has brought, but I am pleased that we can start 2021 with some positive news about personal development and the recovery of our industry."

Marc Crothall, chief executive of the STA, added: "It is absolutely critical that we focus on the development of our people and future skills agenda, in line with one of the key priorities of Scotland's future tourism strategy, Outlook 2030 to lead us through recovery and deliver what will undoubtedly be a different offering in our post-Covid world."

Photo: Shutterstock

All you need to know about Veganuary, from plant-based menus to vegan hotel rooms

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Growing debt burden set to severely impact... - The Caterer.com

Flatiron by Meridian will be the perfect place to indulge in a vast array of culinary choices with the partnership Thalias Hospitality Group.

Meridian International Holding and Thalias Hospitality Group kicked off the new year by announcing their strategic partnership. The fruit of this collaboration is a seamless dining experience, which will be a showpiece at the Flatiron by Meridian.

Flatiron by Meridian will be the perfect place to indulge in a vast array of culinary choices, as Thalias Hospitality Group will be the sole provider of a holistic dining experience to all consumers in this development.

The food and beverage establishments offered in Flatiron by Meridian by the Group promise to provide consumers with a plethora of dining options and excellent service.

Several celebrated brands under the Group will be housed in Flatiron by Meridian, such as the all-time favourite Khma, famous for its free-flow offerings, as well as Khma Go, which will offer a range of bakery, viennoiseries, savouries and beverages.

The Group has also created the Siena Restaurant & Wine Bar a new restaurant concept that is set to debut in this landmark development in Phnom Penh City Centre.

This new upscale food collective, will surely be the top choice for diners looking for quality cuisine in a social and relaxed atmosphere.

Arnaud Darc, CEO of Thalias Hospitality Group (left) and Murray Ko, CEO of the Meridian Group.

Thalias Hospitality Groups delectable offerings are not limited to just consumers at its establishments in Flatiron by Meridian.

Guests staying at the ApartHotels managed by Citadines will also enjoy the scrumptious fare provided by the Group in the form of breakfast and room service dining options.

Having a renowned F&B group like Thalias partner with us is further affirmation of the formidable reputation Flatiron by Meridian has accrued.

Especially in todays climate, we find it refreshing for two organisations to consider ways to elevate and support one another by leveraging on our combined strengths, expertise, resources to deliver and enhance the guest experience in the dining options offered by the Group in Flatiron by Meridian.

We are delighted to embark on a new milestone together by sharing the same strategic planning, which further deepens our collaboration, both now and in the future.

It surely helps us enrich our businesses as well as provide newer services together by enhancing Meridian International Holdings competitive edge in Cambodia and allowing us to contribute to the continued economic growth in this Kingdom, said Murray Ko, CEO of the Meridian Group.

Meticulous focus on consistency of quality, service, investment in personal development and social responsibility are values that brought us together, Murray and I. Partnering together through the Flatiron by Meridian project was obvious almost from the first day we met.

Khma is famous for its free-flow offerings.

Together, we are confident that our collaboration will delight discerning travellers and guests who want the best in dining matched with outstanding hospitality. To a wider extent, I believe that this new partnership will flourish with new opportunities for both our groups, said Arnaud Darc, CEO of Thalias Hospitality Group.

About Thalias Hospitality Group Established in 1997, Thalias Hospitality Group has founded some of Phnom Penhs most renowned restaurants, delis and bakeries that serve excellent cuisine delivered with outstanding hospitality.

Founded by CEO Arnaud Darc 24 years ago with the first in the line of many food establishments being the opening of Topaz Restaurant the Group has now extended its focus beyond just eateries.

In addition to creating Malis and Khma, Thalias Hospitality Group offers operational consulting and runs a multi-faceted catering and events business.

In addition to its foothold in Phnom Penh, the Group also has operations in Siem Reap providing exceptional fare and first-rate service.

With its solid grounding in the food and beverage industry, the Group has received multiple awards and numerous accolades for its distinctive style of hospitality.

Siena Restaurant Wine & Bar is a new restaurant concept.

Some of the awards and accolades that Thalias Hospitality Group has collected over the years include Restaurant of the Year in Cambodia by International Travel Expo, Table Set-Up Competition by Cambodia Restaurant Association and Best Hospitality by Cambodias Ministry of Tourism.

About Meridian International Holding Phnom Penhs property sector is reaching world-class standards with the help of multi-national developer Meridian International Holding. The organisation announced its arrival in Cambodia capital in a big way with its ventures in the textile and garment industry before diversifying into property development and investments.

In recent years, the Group has developed industrial parks, residential and commercial properties. Casa by Meridian and Skylar by Meridian were the Groups first few statements of intent in developing world-class commercial and residential properties in Cambodia.

With the arrival of Flatiron by Meridian, an ambitious 41-storey building located in Phnom Penh City Centre the capitals new central business district area the Group has reached new heights in its ever flourishing property development endeavours.

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Meridian International Holding and Thalias Hospitality Group form partnership - The Phnom Penh Post

SAN FRANCISCO, Jan. 14, 2021 /PRNewswire/ --X1 today announces a $12 million investment led by Spark Capital with participation from Jared Leto, Box CEO Aaron Levie, Yelp CEO Jeremy Stoppelman, Affirm CEO and PayPal co-founder Max Levchin and Y Combinator Continuity CEO Ali Rowghani.

Ash Gupta is joining X1 as an advisor. Ash retired from American Express in 2018 after 40 years of continuous service where he was the Chief Risk Officer. As the President of Global Risk and Information management teams, he was instrumental in navigating American Express successfully through the great recession.

The funding follows X1 Card's viral growth since opening up its waitlist in September. The waitlist is already nearing 300,000 signups and is on its way to becoming the largest ever waitlist for a fintech product.

Built with 17g of stainless steel and laser etching technology, X1 Card reimagines the credit card from the ground up. It harnesses the power of technology to offer smart credit limits, an unparalleled rewards program, and automated features that will transform the way you shop and spend.

"The reaction to X1's unveiling and waitlist was outstanding, and we cannot wait to bring this card to market and to the hundreds of thousands who have signed up for it," said X1 co-founder and CEO, Deepak Rao. "We're honored to partner with Spark Capital and this phenomenal group of investors as we continue to build X1 and modernize the credit card industry."

To learn more about X1 Card and sign up for the waitlist, visit x1creditcard.com.

About X1 CardX1 Card is the smartest credit card ever made. Built with 17g of stainless steel and laser etching technology, X1 Card reimagines the credit card from the ground up. It harnesses the power of technology to offer smart credit limits, an unparalleled rewards program, and automated features that will transform the way you shop and spend. The company is cofounded by Twitter alums Deepak Rao and Siddharth Batra and backed by Spark Capital, Craft Ventures, Harrison Metal, Jared Leto, Box CEO Aaron Levie, Yelp CEO Jeremy Stoppelman, Affirm CEO and PayPal co-founder Max Levchin and Y Combinator Continuity CEO Ali Rowghani.

PR ContactDeepak Rao [emailprotected]

SOURCE X1 Card

https://x1creditcard.com/

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X1, the smartest credit card ever made, raises $12 million - PRNewswire

NASHVILLE, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nearly half (46%) of Americans say their debt level creates stress1. New Years resolutions are a first step to changing financial habits, but it takes a proven plan and small wins to get real peace of mind. Thats why Ramsey+, the all-in-one financial guide, is hosting RESET Live, a free virtual event Jan. 12 at 7 p.m. CST. Viewers can RSVP to RESET Live by texting RESET to 33789 and tuning in at http://www.daveramsey.com/reset.

Nationally syndicated radio host Dave Ramsey, bestselling authors Chris Hogan and Rachel Cruze, and Life.Church pastor Craig Groeschel will host RESET Live, where viewers will discover how to:

We're looking in the rearview mirror at 2020, a year when so many families were completely devastated financially. Looking ahead, we need a reset a time for families to leave behind what was lost and dream about what the future will look like, said Dave Ramsey, personal finance expert and host of The Dave Ramsey Show. People need a plan for working their way out of debt, saving for the future and building wealth. More than that, they need hope, and thats what this event is going to provide.

Ramsey+ has guided millions with an easy-to-follow, personalized plan for their money. Members learn Ramseys 7 Baby Steps, which start with saving for an emergency fund. Within the first 90 days, the average Ramsey+ member saves $2,700 and pays off $5,300 in debt. A Ramsey+ membership comes with access to online financial courses like Financial Peace University, the EveryDollar budgeting tool, the goal-tracking BabySteps app, virtual and in-person classes and communities, and more. To start a free trial of Ramsey+, visit http://www.daveramsey.com/ramsey-plus.

About Ramsey Solutions

Ramsey Solutions is committed to helping people regain control of their money, build wealth, grow their leadership skills, and enhance their lives through personal development. The companys success is defined by the number of people whose lives are changed by a message of hope. Through a variety of mediums including live events, publishing, nationally syndicated radio shows and columns, Ramsey Solutions uses common sense education to empower people to win at life and money. Millions of families have graduated from Financial Peace University classes across the country, and Ramsey Solutions world-class speakers have brought vision, inspiration, and encouragement to more than a million more. Recognized by Inc. Magazine as one of best places to work in the country, Ramsey Solutions and its team of more than 950 are dedicated to doing work that matters. For more information, visit ramseysolutions.com.

1.Source: The State of Debt Among Americans Study is a research study conducted by Ramsey Solutions Research with 1,072 U.S. adults. The nationally representative sample was fielded November 29, 2017 to December 5, 2017 using a third-party research panel.

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Free RESET Live Virtual Event to Teach Viewers How to Gain Control of Their Money In 2021 - Business Wire

January 13, 2021 09:00 ET | Source: eXp World Holdings, Inc.

BELLINGHAM, Wash., Jan. 13, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- eXp Realty, one of the fastest-growing, global real estate companies and a subsidiary of eXp World Holdings (Nasdaq: EXPI), today announced it has expanded its Canadian footprint and is now open for business in New Brunswick and Manitoba. With the expansion, eXp Realty operates in nine Canadian provinces, including Alberta, British Columbia, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Quebec and Saskatchewan.

As part of the expansion, eXp Realty has hired experienced leaders in each province responsible for brokerage operations, with Lou Yerxa heading up New Brunswick and Rena Prefontaine leading in Manitoba.

Yerxa is an experienced professional with more than 40 years in real estate, with a focus on sales and investing, and has won numerous awards for exceptional sales. Prefontaine brings more than a decade of experience in real estate to eXp and has served as a managing broker for the past six years. In addition to her role as a managing broker, she has served on the board of directors at the Winnipeg Realtors Association.

As we expand internationally, we continue to deepen our presence and relationships in the countries in which we operate, said Michael Valdes, President of eXp Global. Im excited about the opportunity to continue driving adoption of eXps model in the Canadian market and across the globe.

Were thrilled to introduce eXps innovative, agent-first model to agents in New Brunswick and Manitoba under Lou and Renas leadership, said eXp Realty Director of Canadian Brokerage Operations Deborah Pleiman. Both Lou and Rena bring decades of experience in real estate and a commitment to agents. Agents in Canada are drawn to our technology-driven approach and are eager to grow their local businesses with our model.

eXp Realty offers a unique financial model for residential and commercial real estate agents, going beyond attractive commissions to provide its agents with an opportunity to earn additional income by helping the company grow its agent base anywhere in the world and earn equity in eXp World Holdings, Inc. through its stock programs. eXps cloud-based brokerage is powered by Virbela, the companys immersive and collaborative platform, which enables its agents to communicate, meet and conduct business in a virtual world.

To learn more about becoming an eXp Realty agent, please visit join.exprealty.com.

About eXp World Holdings, Inc.

eXp World Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: EXPI) is the holding company for eXp Realty, eXp Commercial, Virbela, Showcase IDX and SUCCESS Enterprises.

eXp World Holdings and its global brokerage, eXp Realty, is one of the fastest-growing real estate tech companies in the world with more than 42,000 agents in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, South Africa, India, Mexico, Portugal and France and continues to scale internationally. As a publicly traded company, eXp World Holdings provides real estate professionals the unique opportunity to earn equity awards for production goals and contributions to overall company growth. eXp World Holdings and its businesses offer a full suite of brokerage and real estate tech solutions, including its innovative residential and commercial brokerage model, professional services, collaborative tools and personal development. The cloud-based brokerage is powered by an immersive 3D platform that is deeply social and collaborative, enabling agents to be more connected and productive.

For more information, visit https://expworldholdings.com/.

Safe Harbor Statement

The statements contained herein may include statements of future expectations and other forward-looking statements that are based on managements current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof, and the company undertakes no obligation to revise or update them. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements about the economic and social effects of the COVID-19 pandemic; continued growth of our agent and broker base; expansion of our residential real estate brokerage business into foreign markets; demand for remote working and distance learning solutions and virtual events; development of our new commercial brokerage and our ability to attract commercial real estate brokers; and revenue growth and financial performance. Such statements are not guarantees of future performance. Important factors that may cause actual results to differ materially and adversely from those expressed in forward-looking statements include changes in business or other market conditions; the difficulty of keeping expense growth at modest levels while increasing revenues; and other risks detailed from time to time in the companys Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including but not limited to the most recently filed Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Media Relations Contact:

eXp World Holdings, Inc.

mediarelations@expworldholdings.com

Investor Relations Contact: Greg Falesnik MZ Group MZ North America investors@expworldholdings.com

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CAITHNESS VOLUNTARY GROUP UPDATE: By Yvonne Hendry

Caithness Voluntary Group is open for business. We supported community groups throughout 2020 and we look forward to working with them again in 2021.

We work with groups covering a range of support including funding, policies and procedures, volunteering and governance.

Caithness Rural Transport and Befriending Caithness continue to run their services. Anyone wishing to book transport should email Coreen Campbell (coreen@cvg.org.uk), while to find out about the befriending service contact Angie House (angie@cvg.org.uk or 07592 493048).

The National Lottery Community Fund is organising open sessions for groups interested in applying, as some changes have been made to its funding streams. We will keep you posted about these so you can join in.

Grants are available from Scottish Sea Farms' Heart of the Community Trust for projects that deliver lasting change within Shetland, Orkney, Highland, Argyll and Dumfries in health promotion, education and personal development as well as community projects. The average award is around 5000. Details are at http://www.scottishseafarms.com/community/heart-of-the-community

The Response, Recovery and Resilience Fund is open for applications up to 5000. The fund is now focusing on recovery. This phase of funding will support organisations to continue their operations or to re-establish or redesign their activities to comply with new regulations, in addition to providing emergency support for those who need it most.

Details are on the Foundation Scotland website.

Adapt and Thrive is a Scottish Government funding programme that helps organisations to change and recover.

Recovery for the third sector has not been straightforward, and lockdowns, changes to guidelines and the tier system will continue to be part of our daily lives in 2021. As a response, Adapt and Thrive has adapted and from this week all eligible organisations can access funding regardless of turnover size, while the top value of grants has increased to 75,000.

Working with an adviser, organisations will be supported to develop a plan so they can adapt to the challenges presented by Covid-19, operate sustainably and continue to have a positive impact in their communities. This may mean developing new income streams, restructuring the organisation or changing how services are delivered. Funding to implement the plan is also available.

Adapt and Thrive offers tailored, specialist advice, as well as grants and loans. The advice is designed to help organisations to build recovery plans that are flexible, allowing them to stay open, respond or adapt quickly to any changes in guidelines or tiers. The funding is unrestricted so it can also adapt around the needs of the organisation.

The Communities Recovery Fund, also from the Scottish Government, supports the delivery of services in communities that were suspended or reduced because of Covid or the creation of new services.

The fund offers grants so organisations can reintroduce the delivery of services and supports the adaptation of existing services or the development of new ones to tackle new community needs relating to the pandemic.

For information on both funds click here.

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Looking forward to giving continued support to Caithness community groups - JohnOGroat Journal

I'm going to go out on (a very short) limb and say that, if you've been working on your fitness, you've probably heard the term resistance training by now. You've probs even heard it used interchangeably with strength training perhaps. They are, in fact, very similar to the whole rectangle and square sitch you learned about in geometry class.

That is to say, strength training is a type of resistance training, but not all resistance training is going to help you get stronger. So, you can think of strength training as a subset of resistance training, in which you have a specific goal in mind," says Sohee Lee, a certified strength and conditioning specialist and Womens Health advisory board member.

What is resistance training, then? Simply put: Resistance training encompasses any type of exercise in which your muscles have to overcome some sort of oppositional force, whether from equipment (like dumbbells, kettlebells, or resistance bands) or even just your bodyweight, Lee explains. That means HIIT, plyometrics, Pilates, and yoga all count as resistance training, too.

Some types can help you get stronger, while others will aid in improving your muscular endurance, speed, agility, power, or reaction times.

Resistance training can help you improve your health and fitness in a number of different ways. "With resistance training, you can change your body composition (i.e. your ratio of lean muscle mass to body fat), improve your cardio fitness level, boost your mental health, and just have fun, says Lee.

Yesyou heard that right. Exercise. Fun. (And as someone who adopted powerlifting, I can fully attest that there is no more exciting adrenaline rush than picking up and slamming a barbell. Promise.)

In case you need some more convincing, though, here are five of the most prominent benefits youll see from a resistance training routine.

Less than an hour of lifting weights per week may reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke by upwards of 40 to 70 percent, according to one Similarly, Iowa State University study.

What's more: Weight bearing exercises improve bone density and prevents bone loss, which is a key factor in preventing age-related fractures down the line, according to research published in the journal Endocrinology and Metabolism.

Stronger muscles dont just mean extra strength and power. Resistance training actually increases your ligaments' flexibility and promotes balance among your muscles, which help you avoid common movement-related injuries, according to a British Journal of Medicine study.

If one your fitness goals is to lose fat and gain muscle at the same time, then adding resistance training to your workout routine is essential, according to experts. Building muscle is actually quite difficult, says Lee.

And, good news for beginners: The less experience you have, the faster your gains will be in the beginning, Lee says. Basically, you'll see a satisfying change in your body composition (how much muscle versus fat you have) straight away after embarking on a resistance training program.

For more advanced exercisers, the key is to consistent with your workouts and continue to progressively challenge your bod. This could mean lifting with heavier weights, working at different tempos, or increasing your rep volume or intensity level on the regular.

Build your booty with this dumbbell workout from Kelsey Wells:

4. It can help boost your mental health

While improved body composition, heart and bone protection, and injury prevention are obviously worthy reasons to start resistance training, the biggest, possibly most important benefit is a bit more intangible.

People with mild to moderate depression who resistance trained at least two days per week experienced a significant reduction in symptoms, according to one 2018 JAMA Psychiatry study. And in people who werent flagged for depression beforehand? A single workout equaled a substantial mood boost.

Not only is this the most accessible form of resistance training, but it's the ideal place for beginners to start getting familiar with common movement patters so that they can perfect their form and avoid injuries later when they start lifting heavier loads.

Start with this ultimate, 4-week bodyweight challenge to sculpt yourself from head to toe.

Pro tip: Make bodyweight exercises harder by slowing down their eccentric, or lowering, phase.

Resistance bands are easily portable, low-cost, can be used anywhere, and are ideal for beginners, explains trainer Norma Lowe, CPT. They offer a very safe level of resistance. Plus, they're a great alternative to free weights because the added instability they supply increases muscle activation, making them as effective as dumbbells for upper-body moves, in particular, per recent research published in the Journal of Human Kinetics.

Start with the 22 best resistance band exercises for a total-body workout. Enjoy!

This is Lees fav type of resistancefor good reason. Using weights offers you a straightforward way to measure your progress overtime, she notes. As you add more weight, you know you're getting stronger. If youre looking to achieve a toned look, weights should be your go-to.

Dont feel like you need dumbbells, kettlebells, or barbells, either. Household objects like filled backpacks and gallon jugs work just as well. Medicine balls, ankle weights, and weighted vests also fit the bill.

Start with any of these at-home workouts.

If you're going to the gym and don't want to rely on a spotter to help you resistance train, learning to lift with machines is your best bet.

Your go-to machines: Hamstring extension machine, quad extension machine, lat pull-down machine, back row machine, and cable machines (for triceps extensions or chest flys).

Now that you're sold on resistance training, I've got more encouraging news for you: Theres no right or wrong approach. Depending on whether you have access to a gym or equipment, your work schedule, or any other uncontrollable external factors, you might only have time (and space) for 10 minutes of bodyweight squats every other day. And thats perfectly fine, Lee and Lowe agree.

If you want to get started with a bit more structured, regimented approach, though, Lowe's got some advice for you: Dont worry about how long you train for. More important than your total workout time is the tension put on your muscles. In other words, worry about hitting a certain number of repetitions or sets, instead of working out for, say, an hour.

With that in mind, get started with this sample strategy:

During weeks 1 through 4, do mostly compound movements. These exercises incorporate multiple muscles at once (think squats, lunges, pushups, and chest presses) and offer the most benefits. Aim for 2 to 4 sets of 12 to 15 repetitions of each move. When 15 repetitions feels easy, increase your weight or resistance. (Periodically upping your workload, called progressive overload, is the key to results.)

Then, during weeks 5 through 8, alternative between upper-and lower-body exercises. Aim for 3 to 4 sets of 10 to 12 repetitions. Once 12 repetitions feels light, increase your resistance.

Next, during weeks 9 through 12, aim to work your back, chest and core, legs and core, shoulders, and arms on separate days. Complete 4 to 5 sets of 6 to 10 repetitions. When 10 repetitions feels light, up your resistance.

Progressing your approach in this way ensures you'll continue to see results, Lowe says. Of course, though, it's important to listen to your body (and to keep in mind that your muscles need about 48 hours of recovery time between intense workouts).

The bottom line: You can do resistance training with your bodyweight, resistance bands, weights, or machinesand reap benefits like a more-toned bod, stronger bones, a healthier heart, and a boosted-mood.

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Brussels, Belgium, 11th January 2021-Two major players in the European fitness industry will continue to work closely together for the coming years. EuropeActive, the leading voice and non-profit association representing the European fitness and physical activity sector, and FIBO, the leading International Trade Show for Fitness, Wellness and Health, have agreed to extend their partnership for another three years. The focus of the cooperation is to strengthen the fitness industry. Taking into account the demographic trends, socio-economic developments, new technologies and concepts, the aim is to promote growth across the entire ecosystem of the fitness and physical activity sector.

The close ties between EuropeActive and FIBO were reaffirmed by the appointment of Silke Frank, Event Director of FIBO since 2017, to the Board of EuropeActive in April 2020. "Our visions for the development of the industry point in the same direction", says Silke Frank. "It's about innovation and qualifications within the industry, and it's about convincing more people to live a physically active and healthy lifestyle. The importance of our great industry cannot be underestimated. With EuropeActive we have the best partner for this on our side."

EuropeActives Executive Director, Andreas Paulsen, stated: We are very proud and excited to renew and extend our partnership with FIBO as the global leader when it comes to trade shows for our sector. EuropeActives partnership with FIBO around the major events of the annual FIBO Week goes back many years, and above all we have created the most prominent industry networking and educational event together, in the form of the European Health & Fitness Forum (EHFF). For years, the EHFF has been the unifying annual townhall of the European fitness and physical activity sector. In 2021 that annual platform for learning, connecting and collaborating across the ecosystem has never been more important, as we collectively define our sectors future beyond Covid-19.

EHFF: A leading European networking event

As usual, the 8th European Health and Fitness Forum will take place one day before FIBO. The EHFF has become the most important international conference and number-one networking event for leaders and executives of the fitness and physical activity sector. EHFF is scheduled to take place on Wednesday 23rd of June and will address the four areas of EuropeActives Sectoral Manifesto: Health, Digital, Community and Standards through various interactive sessions with top-quality European and international speakers. EHFF 2021 will be a hybrid event with participants joining on-site and virtually with a full pre-and post-event programme. The event will be moderated by Jennifer Halsall-de Wit (EuropeActive Board Member and Chief Operating Officer of WIFA).

Market data will play a central role at the EHFF, with FIBO co-funding the work of the European Health and Fitness Market Report, the joint study by EuropeActive and Deloitte. This annual report has become the fitness market data 'gold standard and provides our sector with reliable data on the state of the European industry as a whole. This year a special chapter will be dedicated to Covid-19 impact and recovery data.

Further information regarding EHFF 2021, including final programme and registration details, will be provided in the coming weeks.

Additional events during the FIBO Week

In addition to EHFF, EuropeActive will be organising a number of other events in the days before the FIBO trade show. These will include EuropeActive's annual General Assembly, the European Fitness Associations Forum, the President's Council Summit and the Presidents breakfast for leaders of European national fitness associations. These events will facilitate ambitious learning and exchanges of ideas by bringing together the leaders and executives of stakeholders, from club operators and equipment suppliers to digital and tech, as well as providers of education and training. Furthermore, as FIBO supports various EuropeActive events and projects throughout the year, EuropeActive participates in several of FIBOs other initiatives, such as being in the jury of The FIBO INNOVATION & TREND AWARD, which will be awarded at the EHFF.

For the first time, discounted FIBO tickets will be available for exercise professionals registered with EREPS (The European Register of Exercise Professionals). FIBO 2021 will take place from 24th to 27th June at the Cologne Exhibition Centre, with EHFF being on 23rd June. All events during the FIBO Week will adhere to the highest safety protocols and have extensive possibilities for virtual participation in place as a consequence of the uncertainty caused by Covid-19.

Detailed information for press and commercial use can be requested to Carlos Fernndez, via [emailprotected] Photos, logos and other materials supporting this press release are also available via the aforementioned email address.

About EuropeActive

EuropeActive, formerly the European Health and Fitness Association (EHFA), is the leading not-for-profit organisation representing the whole of the European fitness & physical activity sector in Brussels. Membership is open to all stakeholders - public or private - including operators, suppliers, national associations, training providers, higher education and accreditation institutions.

The EuropeActive Team is fully committed to consulting and working with different stakeholders, including other NGOs promoting health-enhancing physical activity, sector media and research and scientific institutions. EuropeActive aims to co-operate with the European Union and other international organisations to achieve its objective to get more people, more active, more often.

According to the EuropeActive/Deloitte Market Report 2020 the European fitness sector serves over 64.8 million consumers, generates 28.2 billion Euro in revenues, employs 750,000 people, and consists of approximately 64,000 facilities. In 2019 the European market grew by 3.8 % and in the past 10 years the number of fitness users has increased by 72%, and 9.7% of all European citizens aged over 15 are users of fitness facilities.

For further information, please visit http://www.europeactive.euor contact: Carlos Fernndez, Senior EU Communications & PR Officer [emailprotected]

About FIBO

It is the world's largest trade show for fitness, wellness and health: the key players of the industry meet at FIBO in Cologne. This is where innovations are launched, investments are made and international trends are set. In 2020, FIBO went digital with [emailprotected] and [emailprotected] In 2021, FIBO will again be held at the Cologne Exhibition Centre from 24th to 27th June.

For further information, please visit http://www.fibo.com

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FIBO and EuropeActive extend partnership for another three years - Club Industry