KCC Approves Westar/Kansas City Power and Light merger

Kevin Surbaugh

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Kansas City, MO, and Topeka, KS -The Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) announced Thursday (May 24, 2018) that it had approved a settlement agreement giving Westar Energy and Great Plains Energy (the parent company of Kansas City Power and Light) approval to merge as equals. Under the agreement, the two companies will become wholly owned subsidiaries of a new parent company and serve more than 1.5 million customers in Kansas and Missouri.

Responding to questions from the Gazette, Gina Penzig, Westar spokesperson said the new name of the holding company will be, Evergy, Inc. (NYSE: EVRG) once the merger is complete in early June.  The two divisions will retain their individual names until sometime next year (2019) at which time they will be renamed under the Evergy name. Contact information, billing and account information, program enrollment and outage reporting will remain the same for customers of KCP&L and Westar.

Its principal business will be conducted by the operating companies known today as Westar and KCP&L.
“As neighbors, KCP&L and Westar have served customers in Kansas and Missouri for more than 100 years. This merger allows us to be even more efficient as we continue providing excellent customer service while maintaining competitive prices,” said Terry Bassham, chairman and chief executive officer of Great Plains Energy, who will be president and CEO of Evergy. “We appreciate that regulators and shareholders recognize the value in combining the companies.”

The utilities have guaranteed more than $100 million in customer bill credits with $29 million upfront for Missouri customers and $75 million for Kansas customers over the first five years after the merger closes. In addition, once currently pending rate reviews are resolved, the companies have agreed to fix their base rates for up to five years in Kansas as a result of the merger.

“Customers will benefit from bringing together two innovative teams of employees who are active in the communities we serve and take pride in providing excellent customer service. The increased scale and efficiency will deliver savings not possible without the merger,” Bassham said.

 In a statement from the two companies, they chose Evergy as the name to represent their combined identity. Evergy is a blend of “ever” and “energy,” capturing the history of its predecessors as reliable, enduring sources of energy for the communities they serve and its vision to continue far into the future.

Jaw Bats the Hidden Gem in Downtown Baldwin City

Kevin Surbaugh

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Jacob Walters of Jaw Bats shows off examples of his custom
designs. This one has all the players from the
World Series-winning Kansas City Royals.
Photographer D. Kevin Surbaugh

Recently, an open house was held at Jaw Bats. During the open house Jacob Walters, owner of Jaw Bats gave a tour of the facility, which is located in the back half of the building that houses the vintage marketplace Papa's Nest. The tour started out with the lathe.  He joked that he was kind of crazy, and still makes the bats by hand. From there, they moved to the scales used to weigh the bats.  Which prompted a child in the group to ask, why he needed to weigh the bats. Walters explained that different people want different weights of bats. As the tour progressed, the group moved into the wood storage and finishing area. Walters explained that this room was humidity and temperature controlled. When the wood comes in he has to through each one and weighs each and every piece. The wood is racked according to quality and type of woods. He has maple, ash; which is a dwindling pile because it's a dying species, then there is birch, which he expects to be the new wood to work with. Walters said that his bats range from $130 on the cheaper to $175 for the best of the best.

Chase Minton, Baldwin City tests out one of the
bats produced by Jaw Bats. A locally owned company
situated in downtown Baldwin City.
Photographer D. Kevin Surbaugh

In the finishing side of the room, which he said was his favorite area, he has another lathe to spin the bat as he paints it. As the tour came to an end, he showed off some of his finished bats. During this portion of the tour, he was asked if he used a laser to do all the engraving on the custom bats. His reply seemed to shock the questioner, as he told her that he used an acetylene torch, including the fine carving of all the player's names from the World Series-winning Royals team.

After the tour, some of those on the tour took a specific interest in the finished bats hanging on the wall. Some even trying the feel out of a few of them.

Jacob and Kristin Walters of Jaw Bats cut the
ribbon during an open house at their Baldwin City
facility.
Photographer D. Kevin Surbaugh

During the ribbon-cutting portion of the open house Jeanette Blackmar, Baldwin City Chamber director, said that it was great to see young people come and open a new business.
Tony Brown, Baldwin City Council member, who represents the council to the chamber, commented on the number of people who were in attendance, saying that it was unusual to see that many people at the chambers open houses and ribbon cuttings.
Musing that the size of crowd speaks to the kind of work that Walters does.
Brown said that he had and others on the chamber had wondered what is going to replace the drum maker that had previously occupied the space? What is going to fill that space? He said there was nothing that could fill that space, as cool as drums. Then he asked,

but how cool is this?

Continuing, Brown said that it captures something about our childhood.

He's taken toys that he has played with, and he's making functioning works of art. 

Brown thanked Walters for coming to Baldwin City and setting up shop and vesting in the community. Saying the city wants him to be "wildly successful," perhaps even the international center for bats. A statement that drew applause from the crowd gathered in the small workshop.

Kwik Shop Sell Complete

PRNewswire

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CINCINNATI, OH - The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) which owns Dillons, announced last week that it had completed the sale of its convenience store business unit, including the Kwik Shops in Kansas,  to EG Group for $2.15 billion.

After-tax proceeds total $1.7 billion. $1.2 billion of the proceeds will be used to fund an accelerated share repurchase ("ASR") program.
"Throughout the sales process, we have been impressed with EG Group's professionalism, commitment to people, and understanding of the U.S. convenience retail market," said Mike Schlotman, Kroger's executive vice president and chief financial officer. "I can't stress enough how important to our success Kroger's convenience store management and associates have been, and we want to thank them for all of their contributions to our customers and our company."
Kroger announced in October 2017 its intention to explore strategic alternatives for its convenience store business, including a potential sale, in conjunction with Restock Kroger. In February, Kroger and EG Group announced a definitive agreement for the sale of Kroger's convenience store business unit to EG Group.
The Transition Services Agreement (TSA) Kroger has in place with EG Group will not have a material effect on the company's 2018 results, nor will it have any effect on Kroger's 2018 net earnings per diluted share guidance. The TSA covers a variety of services for varying lengths of time.
Included in the sale were 762 convenience stores, including 66 franchise operations, operating in 18 states and employing 11,000 associates under the following banner names: Turkey Hill, Loaf 'N Jug, Kwik Shop, Tom Thumb and Quik Stop. Kroger's supermarket fuel centers and its Turkey Hill Dairy were not included in the sale. EG Group will establish their North American headquarters in Cincinnati, Ohio and continue to operate stores under their established banner names.

Baldwin City Fitness Celebrating One Year

Kevin Surbaugh

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Recently Baldwin City celebrated its one year anniversary with an open house. Co-owner Scott White said during the open house that they started March 24, 2017.  The first week or so that they were open Moore said he and his partner camped out at the facility round the clock, until they could get the automatic twenty-four hour door installed on April 1, 2017.  He said that he owned the building and when the medical clinic relocated, he wieghed his options as far as renting out the space.  It happened that the fitness center up on Ames (Highway 56) was closing at about the same time. So he contacted the owner of that gym and was able to secure a deal on some of the equipment from that facility.
In her introduction of the owners, Jeanette Blackmar said that she can't think of another business the city can benifit from than a fitness center.
Moore thanked several perople , who helped establish the business ver the last year, in particular, he thanked Gene "Butch" Vaughn who he said was the fitness centers first member. He also said, he would like to create a program to help encourage members to stay on track.  Something like a "gym buddy.  Those with gym buddies don't quit.  To that end, he said that they were looking at having a sign-up sheet  for those who want to be paired with a buddy.

Open House in Pictures

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a

Refreshments at the one-year celebration for Baldwin City Fitness
included healthy snacks as well as cake.
Photograph by Kevin Surbaugh

Scott White and Sarah Moore, owners of Baldwin City Fitness,
along with Jeanette Blackmar, Director of the Baldwin City Chamber of
Commerce addressed those who showed up to celebrate the occasion.
Photograph by Kevin Surbaugh

Derek Moores (green shirt) and Kali Kostelac (blue shirt)
members of the fitness center get in a work out during 
the open house.
Photograph by Kevin Surbaugh

Epic Vision

Kevin Surbaugh

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It has been two years (come June) since Epic Vision opened their Badwin City office.  They have nine locations accross Kansas, with Dodge City be the furtherest west and three others in Missouri. Other locations include Bonner Springs, Clay Center, Manhatten, Mission, North KC, Parkville, Smithville, Washington, Wichita East and Wichita West.  Doctor Tad Baker is the eye doctor who is in the Baldwin City office.

Refreshments served at the Epic Vision open house.
Photographer Kevin Surbaugh

Sugar cookies served at the Epic Vision open house.
Photographer Kevin Surbaugh

Photographer Kevin Surbaugh

Photographer Kevin Surbaugh

Photographer Kevin Surbaugh

Photographer Kevin Surbaugh

America Saves Week is February 26 – March 3, 2018

FDIC Press Release

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The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today is encouraging people to use America Saves Week as an opportunity to develop or review their progress toward, financial goals.

FDIC Chairman Martin J. Gruenberg said, "During America Saves Week, financial institutions and their community partners collaborate to help people of all ages develop and achieve savings goals. Small steps in building a savings habit can make a big difference over time."

The FDIC offers a number of resources to institutions interested in supporting savings and to individuals of all ages who are interested in learning more about saving. For instance, through the FDIC's Youth Banking Network, financial institutions are working with schools and nonprofit organizations to teach financial education and offer students an opportunity to open a savings account—for many students, their first account.

Many organizations work together during America Saves Week to encourage consumers to make a savings commitment and then take steps to make savings automatic, such as setting up a regular transfer into a savings account. Developing this type of savings habit can help consumers withstand unexpected expenses and income disruptions.

KWIK Shop to Have New Owner

by Kevin Surbaugh relying on information contained in a PR Newswire Press Release

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CINCINNATI, OH and BLACKBURN, United Kingdom - Baldwin Cities only convenience store chain will soon be under new ownership. According to a press release,

The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) and EG Group, a privately-held petrol forecourt convenience store retailer based in Blackburn, Lancashire, United Kingdom, today announced a definitive agreement for the sale of Kroger's convenience store business unit to EG Group for $2.15 billion. The companies expect to close the transaction during the first quarter of Kroger's fiscal year.

Add caption

The Kwik Shop chain of gas stations and convenience stores, along with it's sister chains was included in a $2 billion deal between Kroger and the British-based EG Group.  Kroger, which also owns Dillons, agreed to sell all of its gas station/convenience store operations to EG Group.The supermarket fuel centers, were not included in the deal, according to the press release. 
The release further stated,

Kroger's convenience store business operates in 18 states.  It includes 66 franchise operations.  The stores employ 11,000 associates and operate under the following banner names: Kwik Shop, Turkey Hill, Loaf 'N Jug, Tom Thumb and Quik Stop. Kroger's convenience store business generated revenue of $4 billion, including selling 1.2 billion gallons of fuel, in 2016.

Some customers may wonder if the convience stores will continue to offer discounts with the supermarket shopper cards, but attempts to reach the companies for further comment went unanswered.

Kroger plans to use the net proceeds from the sale to repurchase shares and to lower its total debt, the release stated. As part of the agreement, EG Group will establish their North American headquarters in Cincinnati, Ohio and continue to operate all convience stores under their established banner names. 

Kona Ice of Douglas and Leavenworth Counties Marks Major Milestone; Has Donated $3,773 to Local Schools, Organizations Since Opening

DOUGLAS COUNTY, KS – Bringing tropical tunes and cups of shaved ice everywhere it stops, Kona Ice of Douglas and Leavenworth Counties recently announced it has donated more than $3,700 since its opening in December of 2016.

"The giveback component was a huge determining factor of why we chose Kona Ice," said Kristi Porter, the local resident and entrepreneur who operates the local Kona Ice business with her husband Rob. "It's an awesome feeling to play such a large role in changing the lives of children and families in our community."

Kona Ice of Douglas and Leavenworth Counties philanthropic commitment to the communities it serves is an integral part of the mobile franchise. The Porters will continue to donate thousands of dollars each year to local school groups, teams and community organizations through large-scale events and private bookings. Nationwide, Kona Ice has donated more than $40 million to community-based organizations since the launch in June 2007.

"Our Kona Ice business has brought us closer to the community in a way we didn't think possible," added Porter. "The smile our truck brings to people's faces is priceless. It's such a joy to be able to bring such positives vibes to Douglas and Leavenworth counties."

Kona Ice's escape from the ordinary begins as the sounds of tropical calypso music fills the air at each event and group gathering. The fun continues as all in attendance get their overflowing cups of freshly shaved ice and then help themselves to any of the ten tastes on the truck's Flavorwave™ (an interactive dispensing system in which individuals select from one or more of the flavors to pour over their fluffy snow) or the additional 20-plus flavors and 500 different combinations available.

"Rob and Kristi share our commitment to giving back," said Tony Lamb, founder and president of Florence, Ky.-based Kona Ice. "The couple wants to have a positive influence on the people in their community, whether it's new text books, sports uniforms or, simply, a smile. We are proud to have them on-board. Together, we are excited to make a difference in the lives of those around us."

Beyond fundraisers, popular spots for the food truck franchise include stops throughout Douglas and Leavenworth counties at fairs, festivals, corporate events, neighborhood socials, church events and birthday parties. The Porter's truck also maintains regular weekday and weekend routes. 

To learn more about Kona Ice of Douglas and Leavenworth Counties and to book your next event, contact Kristi Porter by email at kporter@kona-ice.com or by phone at 913-231-7647.

Frontier Farm Credit to Distribute $11.5 Million Cash-Back Dividend for 2017

Press Release

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OMAHA, NEBRASKA – Frontier Farm Credit, a financial cooperative owned by farmers and ranchers, approved a 2017 cash-back dividend of $11.5 million for its eligible customer-owners.

Frontier Farm Credit has returned more than $80.7 million to producers in eastern Kansas since 2004.

“Cash-back dividends demonstrate the value of our unique cooperative business model,” said Mark Jensen, president, and CEO of Frontier Farm Credit. “As agriculture works through a tough economic cycle, our customer-owners are sharing in the cooperative’s success, and can invest the dividends in their operations and local communities.”

The Board of Directors considers a number of business and economic factors in determining the amount of each year’s cash-back dividends, including the cooperative’s financial strength. The earnings retained by Frontier Farm Credit are used to build the cooperative’s financial capacity to continue serving agriculture.

The 2017 dividend checks will be mailed to eligible customer-owners in March 2018. The Board of Directors has approved a cash-back dividend for 2018, with the amount of the distribution to be decided in December 2018.

BeautiControl is Sold to Youngevity

Kevin Surbaugh via a PR Newswire press release

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Orlando, FL - This past Friday Tupperware Brands Corporation (NYSE: TUP) along with Youngevity International, Inc (NASDAQ: YGYI) announced that Tupperware would sell the BeautiControl division to Youngevity.  What is BeautiControl?  Some in the community, may not

have heard of the brand, even though Tupperware is pretty much a household name.

BeautiControl is a 36-year old beauty company that specializes in Spa treatments,

Personalized skin care and Advanced Anti-aging products (SPA) through a unique at-home spa experience with an unmatched income opportunity.

As part of the deal, Youngevity will integrate Beauticontrol's sales force into its company, marketing Beauticontrol branded products, as well as the other brands in Youngevity's extensive product portfolio. Youngevity will also market Beauticontrol branded products to its existing member base. Tupperware will earn a royalty based on future sales of the Beauticontrol sales force, and sales of the Beauticontrol product line by the existing Youngevity members.
 Rick Goings, Chairman, and CEO of Tupperware Brands said,

"We couldn't be more pleased to reach this agreement with Youngevity. We feel Youngevity's 20-year history and impressive track record make them the ideal company to welcome Beauticontrol into its family of brands. The agreement will allow Beauticontrol's sales force to again be able to purchase many of the products that they and their customers love.  As part of Youngevity, the Beauticontrol product line will have an even wider audience through its existing members and by joining Youngevity, the Beauticontrol sales force members will be able to enjoy a terrific direct selling earning opportunity. While likely to be modest in any particular year, monetizing these Beauticontrol assets is a win for Tupperware Brand's shareholders."

Steve Wallach, CEO, and Chairman of Youngevity added,

"We're thrilled and proud to enter into an agreement with Tupperware who has built an iconic and impressive global brand and company.  We look forward to welcoming the sales force of Beauticontrol and expanding the innovative product development that Beauticontrol has become known for over the last 27 years."

Amazon’s Cyber Monday Brings Incredible Deals and Convenient Delivery

Press Release

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Seattle, WA - (NASDAQ: AMZN) – On Friday, Amazon revealed a preview of its Cyber Monday deals to close out the “Turkey 5” – those five popular shopping days starting Thanksgiving and continuing through Cyber Monday. On Cyber Monday, customers will find more than 30 Deals of the Day and thousands of Lightning Deals across more than 30 categories including toys, electronics, fashion, beauty, kitchen, sporting goods, and more, in addition to incredible prices on Amazon Devices and products from small businesses and entrepreneurs, at amazon.com/cybermonday. Starting tomorrow, customers can also discover new deals every day throughout Cyber Monday Deals Week, and continue to choose from more than one hundred million items eligible for free shipping every day. This includes eligible orders of $25 or more on items shipped by Amazon, as well as from small businesses and entrepreneurs selling on Amazon.
 Last year on Cyber Monday, Amazon customers ordered more than 64 million items worldwide – a record-breaking 740 items per second, and customers worldwide purchased roughly 36 toys per second on mobile devices alone!

Customers can also shop Cyber Monday deals using the Amazon App, and set Watch a Deal alerts to ensure they never miss a deal. Voice Shoppers can shop select Cyber Monday deals even earlier, beginning at 5pm PT, Sunday, Nov. 26 – just ask Alexa.
Here’s a sneak peek at just some of the deals that will be available on Cyber Monday, while supplies last. And don’t forget– customers can easily give back to their favorite charity while shopping through smile.amazon.com.

Amazon Devices

• Save $50 on Echo Show, only $179.99
• Save $30 on All-New Echo Plus, only $119.99
• Save $20 on All-New Echo, only $79.99
• Save $20 on Echo Dot, only $29.99 – the lowest price ever for Echo Dot
• Save $50 on Amazon Tap, only $79.99
• Add a TP-Link smart plug to any Echo purchase for only $5 ($20 off)
• Save $20 on All-New Amazon Cloud Cam, only $99.99
• Save $40 on Fire HD 8 Kids Edition, only $89.99 – and save an additional $10 when you buy two Fire HD 8 Kids Edition, only $169.98
• Save $30 on Fire 7 Kids Edition, only $69.99 – and save an additional $10 when you buy two Fire 7 Kids Edition tablets, only $129.98
• Save $50 on All-New Fire HD 10, only $99.99 – the lowest price ever for the Fire HD 10
• Save $30 on Fire HD 8, only $49.99
• Save $20 on Fire 7, only $29.99
• Save $30 on Kindle Paperwhite, only $89.99
• Save $30 on Kindle, only $49.99
• Save $30 on Kindle for Kids Bundle, only $69.99
• Save $15 on Fire TV Stick with Alexa Voice Remote, only $24.99

Electronics

• Premium brand 49-inch 4K UHD smart TV, only $329.99
• Sony 55-inch 4K UHD smart TV, only $598
• Sony 49-inch 4K UHD smart TV, only $528
• Sony 43-inch 4K UHD smart TV, only $478
• 55-inch 4K UHD TV, only $224.99
• LG Electronics 55SJ8500 55-inch 4K smart UHD TV, only $796.99
• LG Electronics OLED55C7P 55-inch 4K smart UHD TV, only $1,696.99
• LG Electronics OLED65C7P 65-inch 4K smart UHD TV, only $2,696.99
• TCL 43-inch 1080p smart TV, only $239.99
• TCL 49-inch 1080p smart TV, only $279.99
• 40-inch 1080p smart TV, only $179.99
• Save on select Sennheiser headphones
• Save 30% on Monoprice & Reprap Guru best-selling 3D printers
• Save up to $200 on select Yamaha digital pianos and keyboards
• Save 30% on TrackR pixel Bluetooth tracking devices
• Save up to 30% on select monitors from Dell, Samsung, ASUS, and more
• Save up 40% on select Netgear routers, modems, and more
• Save 30% on the WD 6TB Elements Desktop Hard Drive

Toys

• Save up to 30% on select LEGO sets
• Save up to 50% on select Hasbro games, Nerf products, Play-doh, and more
• Save with deals from Green Toys, ALEX Toys, V-Tech, Thames and Kosmos, Laser Pegs, and more
• Save up to $70 on Piper Computer Kit
• Wonder Workshop Cue Robot, only $179.99
• Osmo Genius Kit, only $79.99; Osmo Creative Kit, only $55.99

Home Furnishings

• Save up to 30% on select robotic vacuums
• Save up to 25% on select Dyson vacuums
• Save more than 40% on Hoover upright vacuum
• Save up to 20% on Casper Sleep Memory Foam Mattress
• Save up to 40% on select Black & Decker kitchen electrics
• Save up to 30% on select Hamilton Beach kitchen electrics
• Save up to 30% on select Farberware cutlery sets
• Prime members, save 15% on select Rivet furniture and décor, available exclusively from Amazon
• Prime members, save 15% on Stone & Beam furniture and décor, available exclusively from Amazon
• Save $60 on AmazonBasics Big & Tall executive chair
• Save up to 20% on Simpli Home Hamilton rectangular storage ottoman bench
• Save more than 40% on AeroGarden Harvest Wi-Fi

Fashion

• Save up to 30-50% on Prime-exclusive clothing, shoes, and handbags
• Save up to 60% on select athletic and casual shoes
• Save up to 55% on select Calvin Klein clothing

Smart Home

• Save $40 on Philips Hue White Starter Kit + Motion Sensor
• Save more than 25% on Sengled Element Classic Dimmable Smart LED Bulb
• Save more than 20% on Yale Assure Lock

Video Games

• Save up to 60% on hit games, including Call of Duty: WWII, Middle-Earth: Shadow of War, Injustice 2, and Overwatch
• Save up to 50% on select Nintendo Switch accessories

Books, TV & Movies

• Save up to 40% on Kindle Unlimited membership. Enjoy unlimited reading from over one million titles on any device
• Save during the biggest Kindle Daily Deal of the year! Up to 85% off on hundreds of Kindle best-selling books, including Theft by Finding and Glass Houses
• Save 40% on new release movies and TV seasons, as well as catalog best-sellers available to rent or purchase and instantly stream on Amazon Video

Pets

• Save 20% on PetFusion Memory Foam Dog Beds
• Save 50% on Kurgo Loft Dog Jackets
• Save 25% on Fluval 5 Gallon Aquarium Kit
• Save 45% on PetSafe Dog Training Collars

Sports & Outdoors

• Save up to 30% on camping gear from Coleman, including the Coleman NXT Lite Table Top Propane Grill, the Coleman Sundome 4-Person Tent, and the Coleman Premium Powerhouse Dual Fuel Lantern
• Save up to 50% on select Adidas clothing, shoes, and gear
• Save more than 25% on select ProForm Cardio Equipment
• Save 25% on Bushnell Rangefinder
• Save on Bushnell H2O Waterproof/Fogproof Binocular
• Save on select Callaway golf balls
• Save more than 35% on select Trademark cornhole
• Save on Firefield 5x50 Nightfall 2 Night Vision Monocular
• Save on Wheeler 89-Piece Deluxe Screwdriver Set
• Save more than 20% on select JOOLA table tennis tables
• Save more than 20% on Tumbl Trak Addie beam
• Save up to 30% on select fishing and boating products
• Save 50% on Mission logo hoodie
• Save on the Simmons ProSport 10x 42mm Roof-Prism waterproof/fogproof binoculars (Black)

Tens of Thousands of Deals from Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs: Customers can shop from tens of thousands of deals from small businesses, including deals from startups and entrepreneurs in the Amazon Launchpad and Amazon Exclusives programs, as well as Artisans selling on Amazon Handmade:

• Save 20% on select items from Artisans on Amazon Handmade
• Save more than 40% on AncestryDNA Genetic Testing Kit
• Save more than 35% on Tea Forte Premium Teas and Accessories
• Save 45% on Mission VaporActive Alpha Athletic Apparel
• Save 30% on Anova Bluetooth Sous Vide
• Save $30 on Anki Cozmo
• Save 20% on Star Wars Droid Inventor Kit
• Save 25% on Rocketbook Wave Smart Notebook - Executive

Buy one photo book or calendar with Amazon Prints and get two free: Beginning Nov. 26 for a limited time, customers can buy one photo book or calendar, and get two items in the same category of equal or lesser value for free. Design a high-quality, custom calendar to stay connected with loved ones all year long. Calendars can be personalized with photos of family and friends, colorful backgrounds, text, and embellishments for a unique and easy to create gift, plus free delivery with Prime. Go to www.amazon.com/prints to learn more.
IMDbPro Prime Exclusive Annual Membership: Beginning Nov. 25 for a limited time, Amazon Prime members can save 59% on an annual IMDbPro membership, the leading resource for the entertainment industry. Stay connected with contact details for over 300,000 industry professionals and companies, access profile pages for more than four million people and cast and crew listings for more than two million titles, and track over 25,000 in-development and production titles not available on IMDb. Go to www.imdbpro.com to learn more.
New Ways to Shop

• Voice Shop to Get Early Access to Deals: Customers who voice shop with Alexa will get an exclusive shopping window several hours earlier than the general public with access to some of the best deals starting at 5pm PT, Sunday, Nov. 26. Available on the Amazon Echo, Echo Plus, Echo Dot, and Amazon Tap, as well as screened devices such as the all-new Amazon Fire TV, all-new Fire HD 10 Tablet, Echo Show, and soon to be released Echo Spot, it’s as simple as asking Alexa. Customers can voice shop with Alexa for tens of millions of Prime-eligible items every day of the year. Changed your mind? No problem, any physical product purchased with your voice is eligible for free returns. Customers must be Prime members with default payment and shipping information. To learn more, visit amazon.com/voiceshopping.
• Amazon Devices + Whole Foods: Customers can also shop for Amazon devices, take advantage of Cyber Monday deals and more at over 100 Whole Foods Market stores. In addition, staffed Amazon Pop-Up stores at Whole Foods Market stores in Chicago (Ill.), Rochester Hills (Mich.), Davie (Fla.), Pasadena (Calif.), and Denver (Colo.) allow customers to try out devices in-store and to learn about services like Prime and unique content on Prime Video.
• Amazon Books: Whether customers want to discover a new book for the holidays, test drive a device, or purchase Amazon.com Gift Cards, Amazon Books offers gifts for everyone. As an extension of Amazon.com, Amazon Books offers many of the same great online deals, including some of the best deals of the year in celebration of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Beginning on Black Friday through Nov. 27, Amazon Books customers will get a $10 credit on Amazon.com when they spend $30 or more on books in-store, and beginning on Giving Tuesday, Nov. 28, through Dec. 24, Amazon Books will offer customers the ability to purchase a new book to be donated to a local literary charity supporting children in need. Customers can also browse in-store features like Great Books to Give, Seasonal Readings, Most-Wished-For Children’s Books on Amazon.com, Hidden Gem Gifts, customer favorites from Amazon’s Holiday Toy List and Amazon’s Electronics Gift Guide, as well as features like Page Turners: Books Kindle Readers Finish in 3 Days or Less, Local Bestsellers, and 100 books to read in a lifetime. Amazon Books is located in Seattle, Bellevue (Wash.), New York City (on 34th St and at Columbus Circle), Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose, Chicago, Walnut Creek, Boston (Dedham and Lynnfield), Portland, and Paramus (N.J.).
• Treasure Truck: Available in 25 select cities, Treasure Truck is a new way for customers to shop this holiday season. Customers can opt-in to receive notifications from the Amazon App for special must-have offers from Treasure Truck, order the item, and pick-up at the truck all season long. Each time the truck rolls, one hand-picked offer will be available including gifts for the adventurer, foodie, host, kids, and techie, as well as delicious seasonal food items, and more. Look for the truck at various locations this holiday season.
• Amazon.com in Spanish: Customers can shop, browse, and search for deals across 30 categories in Spanish. Customers can update their language settings in their Amazon App, as well as visit Amazon.com and click the ‘globe’ button – located in the navigation bar at the top of their Amazon home screen – to set and begin shopping in their preferred language. Preferred language settings will be saved for future site visits under ‘Your account’ settings.

Fast Shipping, Deals, and More with Prime: Prime is designed to make your life better every day including the convenience of fast, free shipping and great entertainment. Prime members can shop thousands of Lightning Deals with 30-minute early access and, with the Amazon Prime credit card, members will earn even bigger rewards this holiday season. Members in more than 5,000 cities and towns can also enjoy Free Two-Day Shipping with Amazon Prime, as well as Prime FREE One-Day Shipping and Prime FREE Same-Day Delivery on more than one million items in orders of $35 or more. And, with Prime Now, Prime Members in more than 30 U.S. cities can benefit from one-and two-hour delivery. In addition, Prime members in 37 cities and surrounding areas across the U.S. now have access to Amazon Key, the new service that radically improves the convenience of receiving deliveries. Amazon Key allows Prime members to have eligible packages securely delivered inside their homes without having to be there.

Youngevity Now Offers Services

Kevin Surbaugh

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Baldwin City, KS -- Baldwin City resident Kevin Surbaugh an Independent Distributor for  Youngevity International, (NASDAQ:  YGYI), told the Gazette that the direct sales company now is offering a number of services through a recently launched Service Division. These services will be offered individually and in various combinations to give both distributors and customers options price breaks. Surbaugh said, while he loves the health products, he is excited about all the service options that are now available.

Business Loans

Youngevity launched its Services Division last year through an acquisition of David Allen Capital which represents a variety of lenders providing capital to small businesses. Since being acquired by Youngevity in April of 2016 David Allen Capital has arranged $8 million of loans to small businesses throughout the United States. If you own a business and need a loan or credit processing check out the easy application process, even if others won't talk to you.

 TeleMedicine

On the success of David Allen Capital, the services division quickly expanded into Telemedicine via the launch of Youngevity Telecare.  Their website touts big savings and the convenience of round-the-clock access to virtual doctor visits with U.S. board-certified doctors and pediatricians.

Have an actual video doctor appointment on your smart phone, computer or simply talk via your telephone. Prescriptions are even provided when appropriate.

 Check out TeleCare today.

Free Rx Card

You can even get a free Rx card that will help you save up to 85% on Prescription drug prices. One user named Howard reported that he checked pricing for one prescription at his local Walmart and

found it was  $240 for a one-month supply with no insurance,  $45 for a one-month supply through Medicare Advantage and $50 for a three-month supply with the Rx card. While results may vary, it is easy to see that you could save big, Sometimes even more than with insurance You can print a digital Rx Card here.

Just click the print here button on the page.

 CartRipple

Youngevity Cart Ripple is an app based shopping assistant that allows its users to earn cash back while fin (but not always).ding the most economical prices online. If you shop online at all, you probably are looking for the best deal. With this app on your desktop browser or your mobile device, you can get cash back from many of trusted sites you already shop. Check out  Surbaugh said that while the cashback may not sound like a lot, it all adds up.  In many locations, the tollway only charges a quarter, which may not sound like a lot, but it adds up to millions for those locations.   If you shop online and would love to get cashback Surbaugh encourages you to check out CartRipple today.  The only to way to join is accept a referral or already be a Youngevity member.

Protection

Identity Theft
The Identity Theft product offers two levels of protection to help halt fraud before any real damage is done by detecting the harmful use of your personal information.  Even offering a 100% satisfaction guarantee towards restoration in the event a breach does occur. With the recent hack of Equifax, nearly half of all Americans have had their identity compromised, making this service all the more important to get, Surbaugh explained.

Roadside Assistance
Their Roadside offers emergency roadside service. According to their website, their professional network of dispatchers is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, throughout the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada. All for only $159.99 per year compared to the $205 AAA charges. For more information.

Tech Support
According to their website, for a small annual fee, their tech support service is cheaper than that of Geek Squad. The service says that they have “Level 3” technicians standing by to help members save time with our “1 and Done” tech support solution for all of your technology devices.

Business Communications

The communication services are powered by Telegration to help prospective business customers to find the best deal in their area to meet their unique needs. For more information click here.

Farm Credit Services of America and Frontier Farm Credit Announce President and Chief Executive Officer

 Press Release

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OMAHA, NEBRASKA – Farm Credit Services of America (FCSAmerica) and Frontier Farm Credit today named Mark Jensen as incoming president and chief executive officer of the customer-owned financial cooperatives.  Jensen, the Associations’ chief risk officer, will assume his new role on November 1, 2017.  He succeeds Doug Stark, who is retiring.

Jensen joined FCSAmerica in 1992 and has held senior vice president positions with the Association for the past 16 years.  He was named senior vice president – chief risk officer in 2013.  Jensen was instrumental in modernizing FCSAmerica’s credit process and implementing an enterprise risk management framework, and today provides executive leadership of the Associations’ risk management, credit, and appraisal teams.  He graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a degree in agricultural economics.

 

Strong Chicken Demand Prompts Tyson Foods to Expand Production

Press Release

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Tonganoxie, Kan. – In response to strong consumer demand for chicken, Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE: TSN) today announced plans to build a $320 million poultry complex in eastern Kansas.

 

The company will construct a processing plant, hatchery and feed mill near the city of Tonganoxie, in Leavenworth County, which will employ approximately 1,600 people and contract with northeast Kansas farmers and ranchers to raise chickens. The operation, currently scheduled to begin production in mid-2019, will produce pre-packaged trays of fresh chicken for retail grocery stores nationwide. 

 

“More people want fresh food and as one of the world’s leading protein companies, we’re well-positioned to provide it,” said Tom Hayes, president and CEO of Tyson Foods. “We believe this new operation, which will incorporate the latest production technology, will enable us to meet the sustained growth in consumer demand for fresh chicken.”

 

The poultry plant will be capable of processing 1.25 million birds per week, increasing Tyson Foods’ overall production capacity. The payroll and payments to farmers from the new operation, along with its purchase of grain and utilities, is expected to generate an annual economic benefit to the state of Kansas of $150 million.

 

“Kansas will be an outstanding home for this Tyson complex,” said Governor Sam Brownback. “Growing Kansas means we must grow the food and agriculture sector which accounts for nearly 45 percent of the state’s economy. The far-reaching impact of this development will be felt by farmers, ranchers, agribusinesses and communities throughout eastern Kansas. This is a step in the right direction to further diversify and grow our state’s economy.”

 

The Governor emphasized the importance of local-level support for economic development. “Kansas is known throughout the world for our commitment to animal agriculture and for our communities which offer an exceptional place for companies of this quality to find a talented workforce in a business-friendly environment.”

 

“Tonganoxie is looking forward to a successful partnership with Tyson Foods,” said Tonganoxie Mayor Jason Ward. “We have planned for a development of this type for many years by making strategic investments in public infrastructure targeted to support future industrial growth. This project will bring much anticipated opportunities for local residents to enjoy the quality of life benefit of working close to home. Tyson has a long history of support for small towns and local markets. They will be a great fit for our community.”

 

“The Leavenworth County Board of Commissioners is excited that Tyson Foods will be opening a state-of-the-art poultry processing facility in southern Leavenworth County,” said Mark Loughry, Leavenworth County administrator. “This represents a significant investment by Tyson and creates new jobs at the plant for our citizens. More than that, it provides an opportunity for area ag producers that was previously unheard of in Kansas.”

 

“We believe eastern Kansas is the right location because of the availability of grain and labor, as well as access to our nationwide customer base that is accessible through the state’s top-notch transportation network,” said Doug Ramsey, group president of Poultry for Tyson Foods. “We’re grateful for the tremendous support we’ve received for this project from Governor Brownback, as well as leaders from the City of Tonganoxie, Leavenworth County, the Leavenworth County Development Corporation, and a host of other city, county and state officials.”

 

Tyson Foods anticipates purchasing about 300 acres of property south of Tonganoxie and currently plans to break ground sometime this fall. The company will work with outside contractors to build the plant, hatchery, feed mill and related infrastructure and expects the construction project to involve hundreds of workers. Farmers and ranchers who have interest in raising chickens for the new poultry complex are encouraged to go to www.growwithtyson.com for more information.

 

Earlier this year, Tyson Foods announced it was moving to No Antibiotics Ever (NAE) in its Tyson® branded retail chicken products, making it the world’s largest producer of NAE. The Tonganoxie plant will be part of the continued expansion of the company’s NAE offerings.

 

Tyson Foods currently operates facilities in six Kansas communities, employing about 5,700 in the state with an annual payroll of more than $210 million. In its 2016 fiscal year, Tyson Foods paid Kansas cattle suppliers more than $2 billion and hog suppliers more than $1.3 million. The company estimates its total statewide annual impact for fiscal 2016, including grain purchases, utilities, property taxes and charitable contributions to be more than $2.4 billion.

Ribbon Cutting for PK Therapy

Kevin Surbaugh

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Recently an occupational therapy office opened in Baldwin City.  Something that Baldwin City had been lacking. Owner Peggy Keller, OTR/L, has been doing Occupational Therapy for over thirty years.
Keller and her husband bought an existing occupational therapy business in Lawrence, then set out to find a new home for the business. The couple found the Baldwin City location at 811 Grove, with the help of their realtor. Closing on August 11, 2017, they began remodeling and cleaning up the building, opening for business three days later on August 14.
During the ribbon cutting on August 29, Chamber Director, Jeanette Blackmar said that they welcomed the newest business in town.

Ribbon Cutting at PK Therapy
Photographer Kevin Surbaugh

Baldwin City Economic Development Administrator, Ed Courton offered comments saying,

"We are proud you chose our community. You had other communities you could have chosen, but you chose us."

The building has an accessible ramp at the back door, which the staff plans to install a bell on that door, so clients needing to use that entrance can alert staff that they are there.
Some wondered what occupational therapy was and how it was different from physical therapy, Occupational therapy services typically include an individualized evaluation to determine the patient's goals, customizing an intervention to improve the individual patient's ability to perform daily activities to reach the goals determined in the initial evaluation.

Westar Energy and Great Plains Energy Ask KCC to Approve Merger of Equals; Missouri Filling to be Submitted by August 31

Press Release

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TOPEKA, KS and KANSAS CITY, MO – Westar Energy, Inc. (NYSE: WR) and Great Plains Energy Incorporated (NYSE: GXP) today asked the Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) to approve their proposed merger. The neighboring utilities intend to apply for Missouri Public Service Commission (MPSC) approval by Aug. 31. The revised transaction is a stock-for-stock merger of equals that would create a new company serving 1.6 million customers with a combined equity value of approximately $14 billion.
“The KCC recognized the unique value of bringing Westar and Great Plains together. We appreciate the opportunity to present this new merger of equals for their consideration,” said Mark Ruelle, president and chief executive officer of Westar Energy. “Our customers will have a stronger company with less pressure on prices. Our shareholders will see a dividend increase and opportunity for long-term growth.”
The companies announced their intent to pursue a new transaction on July 10. Filing applications with the KCC, MPSC and other regulators formalizes the companies’ request for approvals for Great Plains Energy and Westar Energy to merge to form a new holding company, which will operate regulated electric utilities in Kansas and Missouri. Operating headquarters will be in both Topeka, Kansas, and Kansas City, Missouri. Corporate headquarters will be in Kansas City, Missouri.
“This merger unlocks savings and financial benefits for our customers, shareholders, communities, and employees,” said Terry Bassham, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Great Plains Energy. “We carefully listened to the KCC’s concerns with our original transaction and crafted a new merger agreement using the KCC’s earlier order for guidance to bring better value to customers and shareholders of both utilities compared with remaining stand alone. We look forward to working with the KCC, MPSC and other stakeholders as we seek approval.”
For the past year, the companies have been planning their combination and have identified initial savings of about $28 million in 2018, growing to $160 million per year by 2022. While the merger savings will be reflected in future electricity rates, the companies also propose $50 million in customer bill credits to retail customers in both Missouri and Kansas soon after the merger closes.
The merger better positions the companies to invest in programs and infrastructure to maintain and potentially improve customer service with less impact on prices. The companies’ have committed to maintaining community charitable contributions and to no involuntary job losses resulting from the merger.
With no cash premium paid and no transaction debt, the new company is expected to remain financially strong, aiding its ability to provide reliable service to customers and attractive returns to shareholders. The size created by merging should improve access to capital markets and leverage with suppliers, providing future savings for customers.
Great Plains and Westar anticipate filing their merger application with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) before the end of August. The companies expect to have necessary approvals in the first half of next year.
On July 10, the companies announced that both companies’ boards of directors unanimously approved a revised transaction that involves no control premium, no transaction debt, no exchange of cash, and is a stock-for-stock merger of equals. Recognizing the stock price differences in the exchange, Westar shareholders will exchange their shares on a ratio of 1 WR share for 1 share of the new company; Great Plains shareholders will exchange their shares on a ratio of 1 GXP shares for 0.5981 share of the new company. The new, combined company will provide electric utility service to approximately 1 million Kansas customers and nearly 600,000 customers in Missouri. The combined company will have a new name, yet to be established. Read the full announcement.
About Westar Energy
As Kansas’ largest electric utility, Westar Energy, Inc. (NYSE:WR) provides customers the safe, reliable electricity needed to power their businesses and homes. Half the electricity supplied to the company’s 700,000 customers comes from emissions-free sources – nuclear, wind and solar - with a third coming from renewables. Westar is a leader in electric transmission in Kansas, coordinating a network of lines and substations that support one of the largest consolidations of wind energy in the nation. For more information about Westar Energy, visit www.WestarEnergy.com.
About Great Plains Energy
Headquartered in Kansas City, Mo., Great Plains Energy Incorporated (NYSE: GXP) is the holding company of Kansas City Power & Light Company and KCP&L Greater Missouri Operations Company, two of the leading regulated providers of electricity in the Midwest. Kansas City Power & Light Company and KCP&L Greater Missouri Operations Company use KCP&L as a brand name.

Walmart and the Walmart Foundation Announce at least $1 million towards Hurricane Harvey Relief and Recovery

BusinessWire

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Bentonville, AR - In anticipation of Hurricane Harvey, Walmart and the Walmart Foundation have made a commitment to provide support for relief efforts through cash and product donations of at least $1 million to organizations helping in response to the severe weather impacting Texas and Louisiana. As a part of this commitment, Walmart is working closely with organizations like the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, and Convoy of Hope while coordinating efforts with elected officials and governmental entities to help meet the needs of those affected. We are supporting these organizations in addressing immediate needs in the community and will continue to monitor in the coming days to provide additional assistance.
“We are concerned for the people in the path of this potentially devastating storm,” said Kathleen McLaughlin, Chief Sustainability Officer at Walmart and President of the Walmart Foundation. “We are actively supporting local response efforts and will continue to be there for our customers, friends, family, fellow associates and neighbors in the Gulf Coast.”
Walmart has a long history of providing aid in times of disasters, helping communities prepare and recover by donating emergency supplies, such as food and water, home and personal products. Since 2005, Walmart and the Walmart Foundation have donated more than $60 million in cash and in-kind donations in response to disaster events.

Great Plains Energy Incorporated Declares Dividends

Business Wire

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KANSAS CITY, MO - Great Plains Energy (NYSE: GXP)  announced on August 8, 2017, that its Board of Directors approved a quarterly dividend of $0.2750 per share on its common stock. The Company’s current annual dividend level is $1.10 per share. The common dividend will be payable September 20, 2017 to shareholders of record as of August 29, 2017. The shares will begin to trade ex-dividend on August 25, 2017.

New Media Announces Agreement to Acquire Morris Publishing Group Assets for $120.0 Million

BUSINESS WIRE

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The owner of the Ottawa Herald, Leavenworth Times, Fort Leavenworth Lamp, Dodge City Globe and Pittsburg Morning Sun has bought the Topeka Capital Journal, along with a number of other newspapers.

NEW YORK - New Media Investment Group Inc. (“New Media”, NYSE:NEWM), one of the largest publishers of locally based print and online media in the United States as measured by number of publications, announced today that it has agreed to acquire many of the newspapers and related assets from Morris Publishing Group, LLC (“Morris”) for $120.0 million, through its subsidiary of Gatehouse Publishing.
New Media is acquiring many of the Morris portfolio of U.S.-based newspaper assets located across Georgia, Florida, Texas, Kansas, Arkansas, and Alaska. New Media is acquiring 79 publications including all eleven dailies, the largest of which are The Florida Times-Union (44,750 daily circulation and 68,591 Sunday circulation), The Augusta Chronicle (26,862 daily circulation and 31,682 Sunday circulation), and the Savannah Morning News (21,588 daily circulation and 26,048 Sunday circulation). In addition to the print publications, the acquisition includes Morris’s Main Street Digital group, substantially all weekly and niche print products and all related websites and digital operations.
“New Media is very excited to welcome the Morris publications and their employees into our Company,” said Michael E. Reed, New Media President and Chief Executive Officer. “For over 80 years, the Morris family has built and operated an incredible collection of local media assets. We are honored that the family has chosen us to uphold the rich tradition of journalism and innovation they have established. This transaction will expand our footprint into new states and add some very attractive markets to our local media portfolio. We see strong synergies between our two companies and look forward to the value creation opportunity that will exist as we combine the portfolios.”
William S. “Billy” Morris III, chairman of Morris Publishing, will remain as publisher of The Augusta Chronicle and will oversee editorial-page policy for the three Morris newspapers in Georgia. Morris said, “Since 1929, the Morris family has had a great love and passion for journalism and the local communities that they serve. However, every newspaper company in America is battling trends and redirected advertising dollars, so it is necessary for newspapers to be part of a large newspaper group to build and maintain the necessary resources to compete. We are deeply grateful for the many friendships and business relationships we have enjoyed for these many years and look forward to the impact the next generation will make.”
The purchase price is within New Media’s stated acquisition range of 3.5x – 4.5x the seller’s LTM As Adjusted EBITDA. The transaction will be funded with cash on the balance sheet. We expect it to be highly accretive to free cash flow with net synergies of $10-15 million. We expect the transaction to close early in the fourth quarter.
Moorgate Securities and Avondale Communications acted as financial advisors to Morris Publishing Group in connection with this transaction.

AT&T Makes Executive Appointments to Prepare for Time Warner Merger Close

PRNewswire

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DALLAS, TX -- AT&T Inc.* (NYSE: T) made several executive appointments today in preparation for completing its acquisition of Time Warner Inc., a global media and entertainment leader with HBO, Turner, and Warner Bros. The transaction is currently under review by the United States Department of Justice and competition authorities in certain foreign countries.  Effective August 1, the following executives will assume new positions and will continue to report to AT&T Inc. Chairman and CEO Randall Stephenson:

• In addition to her responsibilities as Global Marketing Officer, Lori Lee will assume leadership of AT&T International. AT&T provides mobile services to more than 13 million consumers and businesses in Mexico, and pay-TV service to more than 13 million subscribers across 11 countries and territories in Latin America and the Caribbean.  Lee was previously lead of AT&T's Time Warner Merger Integration Planning Team.
• John Stankey, will assume the lead of AT&T's Time Warner Merger Integration Planning Team. He will work closely with Time Warner Inc. Chairman and CEO Jeff Bewkes to plan for a smooth leadership transition to Stankey as CEO of AT&T's media company once the merger is complete. Stankey was previously CEO of AT&T Entertainment Group.
• John Donovan, is named CEO of AT&T Communications, which includes AT&T's Business Solutions, Entertainment Group, and Technology & Operations groups. AT&T provides mobile, broadband and video services to U.S-based consumers and serves nearly 3.5 million businesses, from the smallest companies to nearly all the Fortune 1000. Donovan was previously Chief Strategy Officer and Group President of AT&T Technology and Operations.

"We look forward to completing the deal and delivering for customers the many benefits of this merger," said Stephenson.