Christopher Simmons
Christopher Simmons (aka Christopher Laird Simmons) has been a working journalist since his first magazine sale in 1984. He has since written for wide variety of print and online publications covering lifestyle, tech and entertainment. He is an award-winning author, designer, photographer, and musician. He is a member of ASCAP and PRSA. He is the founder and CEO of Neotrope®, based in Temecula, CA, USA.
MCT Reports a 20.9% Increase In Mortgage Lock Volume Amidst Rising Rates for March 2024
SAN DIEGO, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Mortgage Capital Trading, Inc. (MCT®), the de facto leader in innovative mortgage capital markets technology, has reported a 20.9% increase in mortgage lock volume in February compared to the previous month. To gain comprehensive insights into the market dynamics, industry professionals and enthusiasts are invited to download the complete report.
Informative Research Announces Mortgage Lenders Using Fannie Mae Desktop Underwriter Can Now Validate Income & Employment with AccountChek
GARDEN GROVE, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- GARDEN GROVE, Calif., March 7, 2024 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Informative Research, a leading technology platform that delivers data-driven solutions to the lending community, announced that lenders using Fannie Mae's Desktop Underwriter® (DU®) can now leverage a 12-month asset verification report to validate income and employment in addition to assets with a single asset report. By using direct deposit banking data to evaluate income and employment, lenders can streamline processes and improve the borrower experience.
BHERC 14th Annual Youth Diversity Film Festival To Take Place Saturday, March 23, 2024 in Los Angeles
HOLLYWOOD, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- The Black Hollywood Education and Resource Center (BHERC) is proud to present the 14th Annual Youth Diversity Film Festival (YDFF) Saturday, March 23rd (in-person) at Regal L.A. Live, 1000 West Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90015. Films can also be viewed (virtually) online at www.BHERC.TV through Sunday, March 24, 2024.
Mortgage Capital Markets Tech Leader MCT Releases Custom TBA Indications to Provide Price Discovery for Illiquid Coupons
SAN DIEGO, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Mortgage Capital Trading, Inc. (MCT®), the de facto leader in innovative mortgage capital markets technology, today announced the release of pricing indications for the to-be-announced mortgage-backed securities (TBAs) used by mortgage lenders to hedge their open mortgage pipelines. TBA indications improve transparency in illiquid market segments and act as a key reference point on lenders' unique executions - critical data for generating accurate front-end borrower pricing.
Secured Signing unveils cutting-edge features and delivering a best-in-class signing experience
MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Secured Signing, a leading provider of digital signature solutions, today announced the release of its latest version, featuring a range of innovative features and enhancements designed to make the signing process smoother and more efficient than ever. These updates benefit users of the We Sign, Form Filler templates, and Remote Online Notarization (RON) platforms.
CDF Labor Law LLP Expands Firm Leadership, Elevates Six Women in California
IRVINE, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- CDF Labor Law LLP is proud to announce the promotion of two attorneys to Partner and four to Senior Counsel, all of whom are talented women employment defense litigators. These promotions reflect our commitment to cultivating an inclusive environment that values and advances our team members' diverse skills and contributions. These individuals, part of our nearly 50-strong legal team, exemplify CDF's dedication to guiding and defending employers in California's complex labor and employment legal terrain.
Calif. Gov. Newsom Welcomes Swedish Delegation and Signs Climate Partnership with Sweden
SACRAMENTO, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- On Tuesday (Feb. 20), Calif. Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom welcomed Their Royal Highnesses the Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel of Sweden as they continue their four-day official visit to California. During the visit, California and Sweden signed a Letter of Cooperation (LOC), renewing a climate partnership between the two economies established in 2017.
Calif. Gov. Newsom Announces Appointments for 2.20.24 including to Peace Officer Standards Accountability Advisory Board
SACRAMENTO, Calif. /California Newswire/-- On Tuesday, Calif. Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments: First, Glynnis Vaughan, of Sacramento, has been appointed Deputy Director of Public Affairs at the California Department of Cannabis Control. Vaughan has been Director of Partnerships & Engagement at Alacrity Canada since 2023.
IRS Solutions Software Announces Release of IRS Advance Notice: Tracks and Alerts Users to IRS Transcript Changes
VALENCIA, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- IRS Solutions® announces the addition of IRS Advance Notice™ (IAN) to the industry's favorite tax resolution platform. The new feature detects and alerts tax professionals to changes on client IRS transcripts, often months in advance of official notification by mail. CPAs, Enrolled Agents, Attorneys and other tax specialists can work less, earn more, and enjoy steady year-round income with IAN.
San Diego-based Mortgage Capital Trading, Inc. earns 2024 HW Tech100 Award for 5th Consecutive Year
SAN DIEGO, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Mortgage Capital Trading, Inc. (MCT®), the de facto leader in innovative mortgage capital markets technology, was announced as a 2024 HousingWire Tech100 Mortgage Winner for the 5th consecutive year. For more than a decade, HousingWire's Tech100 program has identified and recognized the most innovative technology companies serving the mortgage and real estate industries.
The LA Sports Council Announces New CEO Matthew Cacciato
LOS ANGELES, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- The LA Sports Council, the region's premier sports trade association, is proud to announce the hiring of a new President and CEO of the organization, Matthew Cacciato. As President, Cacciato's first initiative will be the organization's 19th Annual LA Sports Awards, a flagship celebration honoring the best in LA sports and top moments of the year.
Monthly Mortgage Volume Increases 13.96% In Latest Feb. 2024 MCT Indices Report
SAN DIEGO, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Mortgage Capital Trading, Inc. (MCT®), the de facto leader in innovative mortgage capital markets technology, announced today an increase of 13.96% in mortgage lock volume compared to the previous month. To gain comprehensive insights into the market dynamics, industry professionals and enthusiasts are invited to download the complete report.
Pickleball Game, Set, Match! Dink Productions Serves Up First-Ever Pickleball Full-Length Feature Film, ‘In a Pickle’
LOS ANGELES, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Dink Productions launches a crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter for their upcoming movie "In a Pickle." By engaging the vibrant pickleball community in this campaign, Dink Productions aims to showcase the massive audience awaiting to see this movie come to life.
10th Annual Cursive is Cool Contest 2024 Launches for Students in North America
LOS ANGELES, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- The American Handwriting Analysis Foundation announced that their annual "Cursive is Cool"® contest is now open to North American students from Kindergarten to Grade 6. The contest dates are January 23 through April 15, 2024. Students are encouraged to enter early. Prizes will be awarded for First Place, Second Place, and Third Place based on legibility and neatness.
BHERC Caps Monumental Film Season with 2024 S.E. Manly African American Short Film Showcase Closing Weekend
HOLLYWOOD, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- The Black Hollywood Education and Resource Center (BHERC) is pleased to announce the 29th Annual S. E. Manly African American Short Film Showcase (SEMAASFS) closing event, the weekend of January 19-21st, it will include 50 short films. BHERC is also hosting students to see the must-see film Origin, by talented and prolific filmmaker, Ava DuVernay, the first weekend of its release nationally. "We must go out and support our filmmakers and help make their films a success at the box office," noted BHERC President Sandra Evers-Manly.
MCT FINANCE NEWS: Seasonal Lows Contribute to 13.71% Drop In Mortgage Volume
SAN DIEGO, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Mortgage Capital Trading, Inc. (MCT®), a leading mortgage hedge advisory and secondary marketing software firm, revealed today a 13.71% decline in mortgage lock volume compared to the previous month. To gain comprehensive insights into the market dynamics, industry professionals and enthusiasts are invited to download the complete report.
Nibav Lifts expands to San Francisco with Pioneering Air-driven Vertical Transportation Solutions
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Nibav Lifts USA, a leading home elevator company, is thrilled to announce its expansion into the vibrant city of San Francisco, California. This strategic move signifies a momentous leap for the company as it extends its presence into one of the most dynamic and architecturally significant cities in the United States.
‘Best in the West’ Champions Reunite in Westlake Village to Open 101 BBQ Hut
WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- 101 BBQ Hut, formerly known as Willy's Smokehouse and Rib Ticklers BBQ, announces its grand opening on January 13, 2024. This exciting event will showcase their award-winning BBQ and Blue Ribbon Sauces to the local community. The venture, helmed by Marco Gonzalez and Dennis Ofsthun, traces its roots back to a 30-year history rooted in a serendipitous encounter over a sauce recipe at Marco's taco place in Saticoy, California.
IN A PICKLE, is a new Indie Film that Serves up Laughter and Love for the Pickleball Community
LOS ANGELES, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Dink Productions today announced the upcoming production of "In a Pickle: A Comedy. With Balls," the first ever full-length feature film about the fastest growing sport in the U.S., pickleball. The brainchild of former tennis player turned pickleball enthusiast, Dan Brooks, and Jason Reid, one of the leading builders of tennis and pickleball courts across Florida, the film promises to captivate audiences with its unique blend of humor, heart, and sportsmanship.
A PAGA Legal Victory to Ring in the New Year: Trial Court Holds LWDA Responsible for Prevailing Employer’s Costs
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Last week a trial court in Alameda County entered an order permitting Hobby Lobby Stores, Inc. to recover nearly $125,000 in costs from the California Labor and Workforce Development Agency (LWDA). Hobby Lobby incurred these costs during six years of hard-fought litigation involving claims brought under California's Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA), CDF Labor Law LLP announced today.
Calif. Gov. Newsom Announces World-Leading Science & Technology Research Center in L.A. for 2024
LOS ANGELES, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- On Wednesday, Jan. 3, Calif. Governor Gavin Newsom, joined by University of California (UC) President Michael Drake, UCLA Chancellor Gene Block, representatives of Google, elected officials, and academic, business, and health care leaders announced the state has acquired the former Westside Pavilion shopping mall in Los Angeles. The site — which UCLA will transform into the UCLA Research Park — will bring together academics and industry partners from around the world to lead scientific and technology projects that will benefit California, the United States, and the world.
Calif. Gov. Newsom Announces Appointments for Jan. 2, 2024, including to Student Aid Commission
SACRAMENTO, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- On Tuesday, Jan. 2, Calif. Governor Gavin Newsom announced the following appointments, including to Office of the State Public Defender, the California Student Aid Commission, the Commission on Disability Access, and to the California Exposition and State Fair Board of Directors.
New California Laws in Effect as of Jan. 1, 2024, including Landmark Reproductive Rights Legislation
SACRAMENTO, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- In partnership with the Legislature, Caliofrnia Governor Gavin Newsom this year signed landmark legislation to support the reproductive rights of Californians, increase affordable housing, hold Big Oil accountable, and protect the safety, health, and well-being of all Californians. New laws impact reproductive rights, the opioid crisis, and mental health crisis.
Comedians with Disabilities Act makes its debut at SF Sketchfest 2024, at Alameda Comedy Club
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- The Comedians with Disabilities Act (CWDA) debuted in 2010 and has been going strong since. February 1, 2024 at the Alameda Comedy Club CWDA will make its SF Sketchfest debut. CWDA is a collection of comedians with disabilities, both seen and unseen. It was the brainchild of comedian Michael O'Connell. Michael passed away in 2016, but his comedy troupe lives on. Michael's legacy allows comedians with disabilities to develop their voices to receptive audiences across the country.
Digitl Mediums announces partnership with MYM Organics, an eco-lifestyle brand encompassing healthy living through organic fashion
LOS ANGELES, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Digitl Mediums, a bi-coastal boutique full services consulting, marketing and branding company, is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with MYM Organics, an Eco-Lifestyle brand encompassing healthy living through organic fashion.
SecuGen Corp. Releases New IQ SC1 Contact Smart Card Reader
SANTA CLARA, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- SecuGen, a world leading optical fingerprint device and technology vendor, is pleased to announce the immediate availability of the new SecuGen IQ SC1 contact smart card reader.
California Safe Schools Celebrates 25th Anniversary and Honors Environmental Health Heroes
LOS ANGELES, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- On Monday, December 4, 2023 at the California Endowment in historic downtown Los Angeles, California Safe Schools, a celebrated children's environmental health and environmental justice non-profit celebrated its 25th Anniversary with an event called "Your Life is Now" honoring seven trailblazing health and safety heroes and organizations.
The Mortgage Collaborative (TMC) closes out 2023 with record-breaking ’12 Days of TMC’ in time for holiday congratulations
SAN DIEGO, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- The Mortgage Collaborative (TMC), the nation's largest independent cooperative network serving the mortgage industry, has wrapped up its fourth annual 12 Days of TMC, a virtual conference running from November 30 to December 15, 2023. The online event, spread over three weeks, featured several keynote speakers.
Monthly Mortgage Volume Decreases 10.7% In Latest MCT Indices Report for 2023/November
SAN DIEGO, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Mortgage Capital Trading, Inc. (MCT®), a leading mortgage hedge advisory and secondary marketing software firm, today announced a 10.7% decrease in mortgage lock volume in November compared to the previous month. This revelation comes as part of MCT's monthly Lock Volume Indices report, offering valuable insights into the dynamic landscape of the residential mortgage industry.
NotaryCam Approved to Provide Remote Online Notarization Services in 2024 for California Transactions
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- NotaryCam®, a Stewart-owned company and leading remote online notarization (RON) provider for real estate and legal transactions, announced today it will support remote online notarial acts in California beginning in 2024 following the passage of CA Senate Bill 696, which was signed into law by California Governor Gavin Newsom on September 30, 2023. Stage 1 of the bill takes effect on January 1, 2024.
For Your Consideration: ‘The Next Big Hit’ – a martial arts musical comedy included in the big list of SAG and...
HOLLYWOOD, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Mark your calendars for Dec. 15, 2023, as Laemmle in Town Center 5 Encino is proud to present a film that is set to be nothing less than awe-inspiring. "The Next Big Hit" is a masterpiece that promises to inspire you to think outside the box and embrace originality, says producer Zak Lee Guarnaccia, and founder of production company LightRow Productions, LLC. It is a diverse cross-genre marvel that combines martial arts, music, and comedy into a unique and spectacular experience.
San Francisco Chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier International Announces Two Bay Area Women Receive Mentorship Grants
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- The San Francisco Chapter of Les Dames d'Escoffier International (LDEI-SF) is thrilled to announce the grant winners of their inaugural 2023 Female Entrepreneurship Grant and Mentorship program: Stephanie de la Cruz of De La Creamery in Oakland and Wendy Lieu of Socola Chocolatier in San Francisco.
Empire Strykers of the Major Arena Soccer League Sign Marco Fabian, International Soccer Star
ONTARIO, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- The Empire Strykers of the Major Arena Soccer League (MASL), have announced the signing of former Mexican International Marco Fabian to a two-year contract. The monetary terms of the deal were not disclosed as per policy of the MASL. The contract is a landmark deal in the MASL, North America's premier indoor soccer league, now playing in their 10th anniversary season.
Gemoo Introduces Wordance: Transform Plain Text into Engaging Music-Synced Videos in Minutes
LOS ANGELES, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Gemoo, the developer of FocuSee, announced the launch of Wordance, a revolutionary AI-powered tool designed to empower users to create captivating music-synced videos and GIFs from plain text effortlessly. Whether for an indie hacker, startup team member, digital marketer, or content creator, Wordance is the go-to solution for generating attention-catching promo videos that resonate with the target audience. What's better, it's completely free for everyone to use.
The Mortgage Collaborative Adds Four Mortgage Industry Luminaries to 2024 Board of Directors
SAN DIEGO, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- The Mortgage Collaborative (TMC), the nation's largest independent cooperative network serving the mortgage industry, today announced four additions to its 2024 Management Board of Directors.
Legacy Launch Pad Announces ‘The EPIC Goal Workbook’ by Goal Setting Speaker Anna David
LOS ANGELES, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Legacy Launch Pad Publishing has released "The EPIC Goal Workbook: The Guide to Achieving Extraordinary, Powerful, Impactful and Courageous Goals" (ISBN: 978-1956955682; paperback), written by Anna David, a leading speaker on goal setting.
Introducing PRToolFinder Community: A Unique Dedicated Online Hub for PR Tools, APRs and Consultants
MARTINEZ, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- PRToolFinder announced the official launch of its new membership-based platform, PRToolFinder Community. The innovative platform builds upon the PRToolFinder database with the addition of a PR Consultant Directory and Forum functionality to help connect PR consultants and business leaders seeking assistance.
Glancy Wine Education Foundation wraps Auction 2023 Seeking Pledges for Giving Tuesday
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- The Glancy Wine Education Foundation (GWEF) raised $21,949 at the 12th Anniversary Celebration and Scholarship Auction with the San Francisco Wine School on November 11. A lively event with a signature Somm Olympics component featuring past scholarship winner Tonya Pitts.
Sonoma-based Merriam Vineyards declares 2023 a ‘first class’ vintage in newly CCOF Certified Winery
SONOMA, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Merriam Vineyards, located in California's Russian River AVA, wrapped up the 2023 harvest with much to celebrate. Winemaker William Weese states that this year is poised to produce a "great and first-class vintage" for Merriam's award-winning cool-climate varieties, especially its Pinot Noir. Throughout Sonoma County and many AVAs within California, the 2023 vintage is already anticipated to be one of the best in decades.
Adoption Fairytale Videobook for ‘Love Without Wings’ to Release on National Adoption Day 2023
SANTA CLARITA, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- "Love Without Wings: An Adoption Fairytale" (ISBN: 979-8986768045), was released one year ago and now it's also available as a read-along videobook narrated by Rayyah McCaul with an original music score by Sleeps Under Beams. The author, Adam Swain Ferguson, founder, Purple Fox Entertainment, says that the book and its video adaptation were imagined to magically introduce the subject of adoption to his son, and to celebrate diverse families made complete through adoption.
NGPA Celebrates 10th Industry Expo: NGPA Winter Warm-Up Registration Now Open for LGBTQ Aviation Pros
PALM SPRINGS, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- The NGPA is thrilled to announce another captivating series of events set to take place in the sunny city of Palm Springs. The NGPA Palm Springs Events will encompass a wide range of activities, including a career fair, industry expo, networking socials, a weekend fly-in, member socials, hiring sessions, and LGBTQ+ advocacy breakout sessions.
Olea Kiosks Introduces Redesigned Edition of its Indoor and Outdoor Geneva Kiosk
LOS ANGELES, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Olea Kiosks®, a visionary provider of self-service kiosk solutions, announced a redesign of its popular Geneva kiosk as it debuts this new model at International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAPPA) in Orlando November 14 to 17, 2023.
L.A.-based marketing firm, Digitl Mediums announces partnership with David Claytor and SureThing Productions
LOS ANGELES, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Digitl Mediums, a bi-coastal boutique full services consulting, marketing and branding company, is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with SureThing Productions, a renowned name in the entertainment industry.
The California Association of Veteran Service Agencies (CAVSA) Annual Report: Continued Challenges for the Golden State’s 1.38 Million Veterans
SACRAMENTO, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Today, the California Association of Veteran Service Agencies (CAVSA), a consortium of six non-profit veteran service providers, released its 2023 California Veterans Community Report, providing data and analysis on the current challenges faced by California veterans, highlighting the strides made in the past year, and presenting their advocacy strategy for 2024 and beyond-with a focus on behavioral health and housing initiatives.
Homebuilding Veteran Mitchell Bradford Joins Diversified Pacific in California
RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Real estate veteran Mitchell Bradford has joined the talented team at Diversified Pacific. His 35 years of experience and leadership in the industry as a homebuilder and multi-family investor/owner will play a key role in the company as it seeks to grow and expand its reach and focus.
Mortgage Volume Continues Downward Trend in Q4/2023 in Latest MCT November Indices Report
SAN DIEGO, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Mortgage Capital Trading, Inc. (MCT®), a leading mortgage hedge advisory and secondary marketing software firm, reported today a drop of 17.76% in mortgage lock volume over the prior month. Loan originations for October continued to dip as mortgage rates hovered around 8% and lack of housing supply continues to slow origination volume. While overall mortgage lock volume dropped more than 17% in October, cash out refinances did see a boost.
Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation & Institute announces opening of 2024 season for the Great Communicator Debate Series
SIMI VALLEY, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute is proud to announce the start of the 2024 season for the Great Communicator Debate Series (GCDS). The debate competition features a series of regional competitions across America culminating in the National Championship hosted at The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in California. Finalists compete to receive their share of $50,000 in college scholarships.
Legacy Launch Pad announces book: ‘Sustainability in the Air’ to Offer Climate Change Hope
LOS ANGELES, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Legacy Launch Pad Publishing proudly presents "Sustainability in the Air: The Innovators Helping the Aviation Industry Take Climate Action" (ISBN: 978-1-956955-80-4 [ebook]; 978-1-956955-81-1 [paperback]), co-authored by Shashank Nigam and Dirk Singer, respectively the Founder & CEO and the Head of Sustainability of aviation consulting firm SimpliFlying.
Emerging Neurotech Startups to Present at the 2023 Neurotech Leaders Forum in San Francisco
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Neurotech Reports, the publisher of the Neurotech Business Report newsletter, announced that several promising neurotechnology startups and early-stage firms will present at the 2023 Neurotech Leaders Forum in San Francisco, November 6-7. The 23rd annual event-the most established in the industry-will also feature presentations and panel discussions on important issues confronting the neurotechnology industry.
Nandita Bakhshi to Join Teresa Bryce Bazemore in Conversation at Financial Women of San Francisco 2023 Annual
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Financial Women of San Francisco (FWSF) today announced that Nandita Bakhshi, Special Advisor and Board Member at BMO Financial Group and Former CEO of Bank of the West, will be the guest moderator as FWSF honors Teresa Bryce Bazemore, President and CEO of the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco, at the 2023 Financial Woman of the Year luncheon in San Francisco, CA on Tuesday, November 7, 2023.
