Fortis Elevates Payment Processing with Cutting-Edge Solutions for Software Platforms and Growing Businesses In a strategic move to empower digital commerce, Fortis, a pioneering payment technology innovator, has unveiled a comprehensive suite of enhanced payment processing solutions designed to meet the evolving needs of software platforms and scaling enterprises. The company's latest technological advancements promise to streamline transaction workflows, improve payment efficiency, and provide businesses with robust, flexible payment infrastructure. By leveraging state-of-the-art technology and deep industry insights, Fortis continues to position itself as a transformative force in the payment technology landscape. These enhanced solutions are tailored to address the complex payment challenges faced by modern businesses, offering seamless integration, advanced security features, and scalable payment capabilities that can adapt to rapidly changing market dynamics. With this announcement, Fortis reinforces its commitment to driving digital payment innovation and supporting businesses in their growth and digital transformation journeys. MORE...

March Madness Meets Learning Opportunity: SFA Students Score Big at NCAA Final Four NACOGDOCHES, Texas – The 2025 NCAA Men's Basketball Final Four in San Antonio's Alamodome wasn't just about heart-stopping basketball action; it was also a transformative educational experience for ten ambitious Stephen F. Austin State University students. A select group of sports business, media, and communication students seized a unique opportunity by volunteering for the Final Four University Student Program. This immersive experience allowed them to go beyond classroom learning, gaining firsthand insights into the complex world of major sporting event management. While the tournament delivered nail-biting games that kept fans on the edge of their seats, these SFA students were busy behind the scenes, absorbing professional skills and networking with industry experts. The Alamodome served as their live classroom, offering an unparalleled glimpse into the intricate operations of one of college basketball's most prestigious events. For these students, the Final Four was more than just a tournament – it was a pivotal moment in their academic and professional development, bridging theoretical knowledge with real-world experience. MORE...

Truist Financial experienced a notable decline in first-quarter profits, revealing the challenging landscape of banking and financial services in an increasingly volatile economic environment. The bank's performance was particularly impacted by significant headwinds in its investment banking and trading divisions, which struggled to maintain momentum amid unpredictable trade policies and market uncertainties. The downturn highlights the complex challenges facing financial institutions as they navigate rapidly changing global economic conditions. Investors and market analysts are closely monitoring how Truist Financial will adapt and strategize to overcome these short-term setbacks and position itself for future growth. The reduced profits underscore the delicate balance financial institutions must maintain in an era of economic unpredictability, where external factors like international trade tensions can swiftly influence corporate performance and market dynamics. MORE...

The landscape of international education is rapidly shifting as the Trump administration's restrictive policies and inflammatory rhetoric create unprecedented challenges for foreign students seeking to study in the United States. Mounting immigration barriers and xenophobic undertones are sending a chilling message to talented international students, causing significant disruption to educational recruitment agencies and threatening the diverse academic ecosystem that has long been a hallmark of American higher education. Recruitment agencies specializing in international student placement are now facing an existential crisis. The combination of increasingly complex visa regulations, unpredictable policy changes, and a hostile political climate has dramatically reduced the appeal of American universities for global talent. What was once a thriving pipeline of international students is now becoming a trickle, with potential scholars opting for more welcoming educational environments in countries like Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. The consequences extend far beyond individual students. These policies risk undermining America's long-standing reputation as a global leader in higher education, potentially causing long-term economic and cultural repercussions. International students not only bring diverse perspectives to campuses but also contribute billions of dollars to the U.S. economy and serve as critical cultural ambassadors. As recruitment agencies struggle to navigate this challenging landscape, they are being forced to reimagine their strategies and find innovative ways to attract and support international students in an increasingly uncertain environment. MORE...

Technical.ly Joins Forces with Department of Commerce to Spotlight Local Entrepreneurial Talent In an exciting collaborative initiative, Technical.ly has partnered with the Department of Commerce to launch a comprehensive project highlighting entrepreneurs across every zip code in the city. This groundbreaking effort aims to showcase the diverse and innovative business landscape that thrives within urban communities. By mapping and celebrating entrepreneurs from all neighborhoods, the partnership seeks to provide visibility to local business leaders who might otherwise go unrecognized. The project will not only recognize individual achievements but also demonstrate the rich entrepreneurial spirit that exists throughout the city's varied districts. Through this strategic alliance, Technical.ly and the Department of Commerce are committed to creating a platform that amplifies local business success stories, encourages economic development, and inspires aspiring entrepreneurs across different communities. MORE...

In a heartening display of civic pride and community spirit, nearly half of Chicago's residents view business leaders as potential catalysts for positive change. A recent survey reveals that 44% of Chicagoans believe that businesses and their executives have a fundamental responsibility to contribute meaningfully to the city's growth and well-being. This perspective underscores a growing expectation that corporate leadership extends beyond profit margins and should actively invest in the social fabric of the community. Local business leaders are increasingly seen as key partners in addressing urban challenges, from economic development to social equity. The survey highlights a collaborative mindset, suggesting that Chicagoans value corporate citizenship and see businesses as more than just economic entities. Instead, they view companies as potential agents of transformation, capable of driving meaningful improvements in the city's infrastructure, education, and quality of life. This sentiment reflects a broader trend of expecting businesses to be socially responsible and to play an active role in community development. For Chicago's business leaders, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to the city that supports their success. MORE...

Behind the Scenes: Local Students Dive into the World of Broadcasting On a vibrant Wednesday, KDKA reporter Lindsay Ward stepped into a bustling production studio, where the future of media is being shaped by an enthusiastic group of young learners. The studio buzzed with creativity as dozens of students immersed themselves in the intricate art and science of broadcasting. From understanding camera angles to mastering sound engineering, these aspiring media professionals are getting an unprecedented glimpse into the dynamic world of television and digital media production. Each student explores different facets of broadcasting, learning how complex technical skills and creative storytelling come together to create compelling content. Ward's tour revealed a classroom transformed into a living, breathing media laboratory, where textbook knowledge meets hands-on experience. The students' passion and curiosity were palpable, highlighting the exciting potential of the next generation of broadcast professionals. MORE...

My recent tropical getaway took me on an extraordinary journey through two stunning Central American destinations: Belize and Panama. While both all-inclusive resorts promised luxury and relaxation, something about my Panama experience continues to captivate my imagination long after I've returned home. The resorts were equally impressive, boasting pristine beaches, world-class amenities, and impeccable service. Yet, Panama held a magical allure that went beyond mere vacation aesthetics. From the moment I arrived, the country's vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and unique blend of modern sophistication and natural beauty completely enchanted me. What sets my Panama stay apart was not just the resort's exceptional quality, but the destination's incredible diversity. The seamless blend of cosmopolitan Panama City with its stunning tropical surroundings created an unforgettable backdrop for my vacation. Every moment felt like a perfect balance between relaxation and discovery. While Belize offered its own charm, Panama lingered in my memories, calling me back with its irresistible mix of adventure, luxury, and cultural richness. It wasn't just a vacation—it was an experience that transformed my perspective on tropical travel. MORE...

A strategic seven-year roadmap has been unveiled, outlining a potential acquisition scenario where a private equity consortium could secure a substantial 80% ownership stake in the targeted business unit. This comprehensive timeline provides a structured approach for potential investors, offering a clear pathway for strategic investment and gradual ownership transition. The extended timeline allows for careful due diligence, strategic planning, and phased integration, giving both the current stakeholders and potential investors ample opportunity to assess and optimize the transaction. By spreading the acquisition process over seven years, the plan mitigates risks and creates a flexible framework for a potentially complex corporate restructuring. Investors will have the opportunity to methodically evaluate the unit's performance, growth potential, and strategic alignment before finalizing the significant majority stake. This approach demonstrates a measured and thoughtful approach to corporate ownership transfer, prioritizing long-term value creation and strategic compatibility. MORE...

The skies above Ukraine have become a complex aerial battlefield, where drones dart and weave in a constant dance of surveillance and strategy. In this high-stakes environment, soldiers face a critical challenge: distinguishing friend from foe among the swarms of unmanned aerial vehicles. The uncertainty has led to a defensive approach where infantry units are quick to neutralize any drone that appears suspicious, either by jamming its signals or taking direct action to shoot them down. These flying machines have transformed modern warfare, becoming eyes in the sky that can provide crucial intelligence, deliver small payloads, or even serve as precision weapons. The constant buzz overhead has created a tense atmosphere where every drone could potentially be a threat, pushing soldiers to remain constantly alert and ready to respond to any aerial intrusion. The result is a dynamic and unpredictable aerial landscape, where technology and human instinct collide in a high-stakes game of detection and defense. Soldiers must rely on their training, quick reflexes, and advanced equipment to protect themselves from the potential dangers lurking in the skies above the conflict zone. MORE...