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Global bidding frenzy shatters records at Heffel auction

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Exceptional results achieved at Heffel spring auction, totalling a staggering $22.6MPacked Toronto auction room with cheers from the crowd and remote bidder enthusiasmHighlights included collection of legendary art dealer Torben V. Kristiansen, and masterworks by Jean Paul Riopelle, Tom Thomson, Emily Carr and othersWhite-glove session of Canadian, Impressionist & Modern Art (100% sold)

TORONTO, May 23, 2024 /CNW/ – Today in Toronto, Heffel Fine Art Auction House hosted its highly-anticipated spring auction, showcasing more than 90 outstanding works of art to a packed sale room, buzzing with excitement. The auction was nothing short of spectacular, leading the market with three sessions of record-breaking sales of artworks that helped shape Canadian art history. A breathtaking Jean Paul Riopelle painting from the esteemed collection of Torben V. Kristiansen headlined the event, joined by masterpieces from Tom Thomson, Emily Carr and other art giants, collectively fetching an astounding $22.6 million. The event took place in Heffel’s Toronto cutting-edge auction venue, expertly blending live action with a remote audience through their Digital Saleroom, uniting collectors from across the globe in a shared celebration of art. (All prices are in Canadian dollars and include a buyer’s premium.)

A very special addition to Heffel’s time-honoured sessions of Post-War & Contemporary Art and Canadian, Impressionist & Modern Art was Legendary: The Collection of Torben V. Kristiansen, one of the most extraordinary single-consignor collections ever to come to market in Canada. Kristiansen, who passed away in 2023, was a legendary figure in Canada’s art world, and was known for his impeccable taste and deep love for the works he collected. The remarkable selection of works garnered global participation for coveted masterpieces and rare gems by the biggest names in Canadian art. The works from the collection totalled an astounding $9.1 million.

“The energy in the room tonight was absolutely electric,” said Robert Heffel, Vice President of Heffel Fine Art Auction House. “The excitement and competitive spirit among bidders were a testament to the enduring appreciation for masterworks of exceptional quality. It was truly a privilege to witness the enthusiasm from across the world.”

Highlights from the Heffel Spring 2024 Live Auction

Jean Paul Riopelle took centre stage, where his 10 outstanding works collectively garnered a staggering $6 million. His works sparked global interest and were led by the incredibly rare 1949 drip canvas, Verts ombreuses, which sold for $2,761,250 (est. $2,500,000 – 3,500,000) and his commanding 1954 masterpiece, Sans titre which fetched $1,321,250 (est. $1,200,000 – 1,600,000).Hugely important works by Emily Carr highlighted the white-glove session of Canadian, Impressionist & Modern Art. The famous War Canoes, Alert Bay, a precursor to her famous canvas of the same title in the collection of the Audain Art Museum, as well as Scorned as Timber, Beloved of the Sky, a study for a major work in the collection of the Vancouver Art Gallery each sold for $871,250. Heffel is proud to be synonymous with Emily Carr’s market, which continues to draw impressive results and attention from around the world.Due to Tom Thomson‘s untimely and mysterious death, his paintings are considered some of the most coveted in Canadian art. The Kristiansen collection featured three of his rare and impactful oil sketches, with Colourful Maples fetching $961,250 (est. $700,000 – $900,000) and Fall Woods, Algonquin Park selling for $931,250 (est. $500,000 – $700,000).Important works by members of the Group of Seven drew major competition in the auction and soared past their estimated values. A.J. Casson’s graphic and atmospheric Summer Sky fetched $781,250 (est. $150,000 – 250,000) and Lawren Harris’ mesmerising abstract canvas, Mountain Experience reached $541,250 (est. $150,000 – 250,000).Mary Pratt‘s Girl in My Dressing Gown, the intimate and captivating portrait of muse Donna Meaney, set a deserving new record for the artist at $289,250. This special canvas was one of the finest paintings by Pratt to ever grace the art market and is truly museum-quality (est. $150,000 – $250,000).A stunning seascape by Takao Tanabe, a showstopper at the Heffel previews across Canada, shattered the previous artist record by a wide margin. Nootka 1/91: in Hanna Channel, the serene yet powerful 1991 canvas sold for an impressive $451,250, well above its presale estimate of $60,000 to $80,000.Two of Andy Warhol‘s most sought-after prints stood out amongst the contemporary works on offer. The vibrant hot pink Marilyn Monroe (Marilyn) sold for $205,250 (est. $80,000 – 120,000) and the iconic Mick Jagger sold for $157,250 (est. $80,000 – 100,000). The market for Warhol’s work remains strong, consistently demonstrating high demand and impressive auction results.Notable examples by six important artists set new benchmarks in the Heffel auction. In addition to Takao Tanabe and Mary Pratt, artist records were achieved with Prudence Heward’s exceptional Sunflowers which sold for $301,250, the rare Still Life with Fruit and Blue Teapot by Christiane Pflug which sold for $25,000.

For more information on the works included in Heffel’s spring live auction, visit www.heffel.com.

Additional works from the Collection of Torben V. Kristiansen are currently on offer through a curated Heffel online auction, closing on May 30, with future auctions to follow.

Heffel is now welcoming consignments for the fall 2024 auction season, encompassing international and Canadian works of art. The deadline for fall consignments is August 2024.

About Heffel Fine Art Auction House
Since 1978, Heffel has connected passionate collectors across the world with outstanding works of art, with sales totaling three quarters of a billion dollars. Heffel is renowned for its expertise in effectively managing and handling estates, serving as trusted experts for navigating the complexities of art collections inherited from estates with precision and care. With facilities in Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Ottawa and Calgary, Heffel has the most experienced team of fine art specialists in Canada and provides premium client service to both sellers and buyers internationally.

SOURCE Heffel Fine Art Auction House

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Alliant Credit Union Foundation Announces Record Breaking Year in Efforts to Bridge the Digital Divide

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January 9, 2025

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Foundation awarded over $1.6 million to community organizations focused on digital equity in Illinois and Nationwide in 2024

CHICAGO, Jan. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — With the goal of providing reliable broadband, digital literacy resources and technology equipment for underserved communities across the United States, the Alliant Credit Union Foundation, today announced its 2024 efforts. In 2024, the Alliant Credit Union Foundation launched it’s Million Dollar Challenge, aiming to invest at least one million dollars in organizations working to close the digital gap. By 2024 year-end, the foundation has donated over $1.6 million to fifteen organizations nationwide.

The Alliant Credit Union Foundation funds were strategically allocated to charitable partners empowering local initiatives in Illinois and throughout the nation to enhance access to digital tools, and provide essential resources in rural, digitally challenged, and under-resourced populations.

“2024 has been a year of mission-driven and meaningful progress for the Alliant Foundation,” said Meredith Richie, President of the Alliant Credit Union Foundation. “From funding initiatives nationwide to facilitating technology access and driving important conversations, we’ve taken significant strides in addressing the digital gap. These achievements reflect the collective efforts of our partners, donors, and community members who share our vision of a more connected and equitable future.”

Some key grants from the Alliant Foundation in 2024 include:

$500,000 to PCs for People to expand their St. Louis processing center and purchase shipping trailers to run regular routes transporting devices and equipment from four of market locations (including Chicago).$250,000 to Digitunity for their Software Modernization Project a platform that will help states and corporations generate the supply they need to meet their Digital Equity Plan device goals.$250,000 to Compudopt for the Connectivity Chicago Project. The grant will allow the organization to expand their services and provide devices, education, and free internet to households.$100,040 to EveryoneOn for the Digital Connections Project to provide training and devices to individuals looking to enhance skills in the everchanging digital landscape.

Recognizing the importance of access to functional technology, the foundation hosted multiple events throughout the year to provide access to those who need it most. In February, the foundation partnered with EveryoneOn, Visa and with Nevada Partners, to open The Community Access Lab in Las Vegas’ Westside as a part of Visa’s Super Bowl Giveback Program. The Lab works to enhance community residents’ digital and financial literacy and foster Westside entrepreneurship. In the Spring and Fall the foundation partnered with PCs for People to host electronic drives at Alliant Credit Union headquarters in Chicago, a record-breaking 15,686 pounds of tech equipment was collected to be refurbished and distributed to populations in need.

The Digital Divide by the Numbers:

11.5 million American households without internet access, per the 2020 U.S. Census.1 in 5 parents say children’s homework cannot be completed without computer or internet access.$1 million+ Alliant Credit Union Foundation grants to foster digital inclusion within at-risk communities in 2024.

About Alliant Credit Union Foundation:
The Alliant Credit Union Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the well-being of communities by supporting initiatives that foster financial literacy, economic empowerment, and access to essential resources. As the philanthropic arm of Alliant Credit Union, the Foundation partners with organizations that align with its mission to create opportunities for underserved populations, promote financial education, and address the digital divide. The Alliant Credit Union Foundation is committed to making a lasting impact and helping individuals and families build a brighter financial future through strategic grants and community partnerships.

Media Contact:
Natalie Symonds 
nsymonds@alliantcreditunion.com
Sr. Media Strategist
Alliant Credit Union

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SOURCE Alliant Credit Union

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Old World Labs Unveils Advanced AI Agents at CES 2025: Revolutionizing Robotics and Virtual Worlds

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January 9, 2025

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LAS VEGAS, Jan. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On the first day of CES 2025, Old World Labs (OWL) is proud to announce groundbreaking advancements in its “Agents as a Service” technology, showcasing how these cutting-edge AI systems seamlessly integrate into humanoid robots and virtual environments. These innovations mark a significant leap forward in bridging the physical and digital worlds, setting a new standard for adaptability and intelligence in robotics.

 

The Next Generation of AI-Driven Robotics

At the forefront of OWL’s innovations is the “Replicants” system, a first-of-its-kind platform enabling self-replicating humanoid robots equipped with advanced AI agents. These agents combine real-time reasoning, resource-aware adaptability, and dynamic interaction, making them invaluable across industries—from manufacturing to immersive virtual experiences.

Key Features of the Replicants System:

Humanoid Robotics Integration: AI agents embedded within robots capable of natural human-like interactions and precise task execution.Virtual World Interoperability: Unified AI presence across physical robots and digital environments for seamless collaboration.Resource-Aware Design: Sustainable, scalable solutions that adapt to complex challenges in real time.

Why This Matters

The evolution of AI agents into humanoid robotics represents a paradigm shift in how humans engage with technology. OWL’s advancements enable robots to:

Understand and interact with 3D environments.Execute complex tasks autonomously, enhancing productivity and user experience.Transition seamlessly between physical and digital spaces, redefining the role of AI in daily life and industrial applications.

Quote from Nick Liverman, Founder of Old World Labs

“At CES 2025, we’re showcasing how Old World Labs is driving the future of AI and robotics. Our Replicants system empowers humanoid robots and virtual agents to function as intelligent companions and collaborators. These breakthroughs push beyond traditional boundaries, enabling accessible, adaptive, and scalable solutions for everyone,” said Nick Liverman.

Live Demonstrations and Interactive Sessions

Attendees at CES 2025 are invited to Booth #8777 in the LV North Hall to:

Experience Real-Time AI Integration: See how OWL’s agents operate humanoid robots with precision and adaptability.Explore Virtual World Interactions: Witness how AI agents transition seamlessly between robotics and immersive virtual platforms.Participate in Workshops: Learn how OWL’s “Agents as a Service” technology can transform industries and projects.

About Old World Labs

Founded in 2012 by Nick Liverman, Old World Labs has been a pioneer in robotics and AI innovation. Renowned for its high-precision 3D printing solutions, OWL is now at the forefront of integrating intelligent agents into humanoid robots and virtual worlds. With a mission to make advanced technology accessible and impactful, OWL continues to set the industry standard.

Media Contact

Eric Faust
Business Development
Old World Labs
info@oldworldlabs.com

Click here for more details about our booth at: https://ces25.mapyourshow.com/8_0/exhibitor/exhibitor-details.cfm?exhid=0014V00003uGRiBQAW

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SOURCE Old World Labs

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BLUETTI Unveils Apex 300 and EnergyPro 6K at CES 2025, Highlighting Brand Refinement Strategy for 2025

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January 9, 2025

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BLUETTI reinforces its role as a technology pioneer in clean energy with innovative energy solutions at CES 2025.

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — BLUETTI, a leading provider of clean energy solutions and this year’s CES Innovation Award honoree, debuted its latest energy storage solutions, the Apex 300 portable power station and EnergyPro 6K whole house battery backup, during its brand refinement event at booth 9837 at CES 2025.

As part of its strategy to refine and elevate its global brand, BLUETTI launched its new product era 3.0, showcasing its groundbreaking new product series: Bluetti Elite, Apex, and EnergyPro. The highly anticipated products, Apex 300 and EnergyPro 6K, were officially unveiled during the event, marking a significant leap in the company’s ongoing commitment to pioneering clean energy storage.

BLUETTI Apex 300: The All-in-One Solution for Every Scenario

The Bluetti Apex 300 Portable Power Station is a versatile portable power station with a 2,764.8Wh capacity and 3,840W output, providing reliable power for home backup, RV road trips, and other off-grid scenarios. It can deliver both 120V and 240V power simultaneously, meaning user can handle essential appliances and heavy-duty devices like well pumps and dryers.

With advanced parallel-expansion technology, the Apex 300 can scale up to an impressive 58kWh storage and 11.52kW output, ensuring up to a week of power supply during extended outages. In parallel, it is powerful enough to charge an electric vehicle.

Charging is fast and flexible — powered by Turbo Boost charging technology, users can recharge the Apex 300 to 80% in just 45 minutes from mains power. Alternative charging options include solar panels, vehicles, generators, and EV stations. With industry-leading PV charging capacity of up to 30,720W, the Apex 300 ensures stable power even in remote locations or prolonged blackouts.

The Apex 300 is expected to be officially released in the second quarter of 2025.

BLUETTI EnergyPro 6K: The Ultimate Power Solution for Small to Medium Homes

Designed for residential and small-to-medium business use, the Bluetti EnergyPro 6K Whole House Battery Backup is a reliable, affordable and cost effective home energy storage system that integrates solar, battery, grid, generator, and EV power sources. It supplies dependable backup power during power outages, peak periods, or other off-grid settings.

The EnergyPro offers flexible scalability for a personalized power experience. By connecting up to five EnergyPro 6K units, users can achieve substantial power output and storage capabilities to weather extended blackouts or support small off-grid farms.

Seamlessly integrating with users’ existing rooftop solar systems, the EnergyPro 6K optimizes energy usage by storing excess solar power. This allows homeowners to always be prepared for power interruptions while reducing their electricity bills. The AT1 Smart Distribution Box further enhances energy efficiency by allowing any supported EV to charge the battery during extended power outages, and home standby generators to automatically fuel the battery without manual switching. This comprehensive energy solution ensures uninterrupted power in any situation, without relying on the grid or favorable weather conditions.

The EnergyPro 6K is expected to be officially released in the second quarter of 2025.

Powered by BLUETTI Future Tech System

The Apex 300 and EnergyPro 6K are powered by BLUETTI’s cutting-edge Future Energy Tech System, which consists of four key pillars:

BLUEPEAK Innovation Hub: The core of BLUETTI’s hardware and physical innovations in energy storage.BLUELINK Energy Network: The brain behind BLUETTI’s product and energy solutions, providing intelligent and seamless connectivity.BLUEGRID Power Infrastructure: Tailored tech solutions for households and SME businesses, offering scalable and efficient power management.BLUELIFE Ecosystem Tech: A lifestyle-driven tech ecosystem that integrates energy seamlessly into daily life, empowering consumers to embrace sustainable living.

BLUETTI’s ongoing commitment to innovation, sustainability, and clean energy solutions is poised to reshape how consumers and businesses manage their power needs in 2025 and beyond. For more information on the upcoming products and BLUETTI’s vision, visit us at booth 9837 CES 2025 and explore the future of energy.

About BLUETTI

Founded in 2009, BLUETTI is a pioneer force in clean energy technology, committed to a sustainable future by providing green and independent energy storage solutions for every household. With a strong focus on innovation and customer needs, BLUETTI has gained the trust of 3.5 million customers and established a presence in over 110 countries & regions. Through initiatives like the LAAF (Lighting An African Family) Program, BLUETTI is dedicated to bringing power to millions of African families in off-grid areas.

Contact: Ellen Lee, ellenlee@bluetti.com 

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SOURCE BLUETTI POWER INC

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