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Is Gamification The Future Of Advertising? Heres How One Company Is Shaking Up The Industry

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–News Direct–

By Faith Ashmore, Benzinga

In the early 90s and even 2000s, ads were a key part of consuming media and advertising was, in a way, fun. Commercials were part of the popular culture monolith and it was clear that advertising budgets were spent with intention. Ask any 90s kid, and they can quote the most popular ads of the time, whether that is Tony the Tigers Theyre G-r-r-reat! or Verizons (NYSE: VZ) Can you hear me now? Today, the landscape of ads has changed, and the overall feeling is not one of enjoyment but rather fatigue.

Advertising seems to be missing its mark for the majority of viewers. While ads have always been looked at through the lens of doubt, only 4% of people in a recent study by Inc. Magazine believed they were trustworthy. Not to mention, people feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of ads they are exposed to on a daily basis, which makes them more likely to tune them out. Additionally, the cultural significance of advertising has diminished due to the increasing amount of ads on the internet, and most ads are not viewed as entertaining or effective at selling products. There has also been recent discourse that criticizes the rise of "woke-wash" advertising or makes false claims about social or environmental responsibility just for profit.

Its harder to reach audiences, the cost of marketing is going up, the number of channels has exponentially proliferated and the cost to cover all of those channels has proliferated, Jay Pattisall, the lead author of a recent advertising report, shared in an interview. Its a continual pressure for marketers were no longer just creating advertising campaigns three or four times a year and running them across a few networks and print.

What Does The Future Of Successful Advertising Look Like?

In a world where everyone seems to despise ads, gamification could be the next frontier for advertising, with 2 out of 3 Americans spending an hour on gaming every day. In this landscape, Overplay emerges as a solution that aims to disrupt the status quo.

Overplay leverages the power of gamification and introduces a new approach to advertising that transforms traditional ads into interactive games. By turning ads into engaging experiences, Overplay seeks to capture users' attention and boost their active participation.

Overplay's innovative platform empowers creators to effortlessly infuse their videos with interactive elements, removing the need for coding skills and technical expertise. This democratization of interactive content creation opens up a world of possibilities for creators, allowing them to tap into the immense popularity of gaming culture quickly and easily. The result is a more immersive and enjoyable ad experience that stands out amidst the noise of traditional advertising.

Not only does Overplay benefit creators, but it also offers value to brands. By harnessing the power of playable game ads, brands can connect with their target audience in a highly interactive and memorable way. Plus, playable ads have been shown to achieve a staggering 7x higher conversion rate compared to other ad formats, making them a powerful tool for driving results. With Overplay, brands can create these effective playable game ads at a fraction of the cost and time traditionally required.

The allure of Overplay is undeniable, with hundreds of thousands of app downloads and millions of games played. By recognizing that the current zeitgeist has shifted away from enjoying ads, Overplay has set out to transform the advertising landscape by making ads more enjoyable, interactive and effective through the power of gamification.

Featured photo by Joshua Earle on Unsplash.

Overplay is revolutionizing a $574 billion digital media landscape with the first frictionless platform for user-generated games.With Overplay, everyone can turn their videos into games and share them with the world in minutes, for free, with no code. Overplays app can be used to quickly and easily make games from anything: funny moments with your friends, cat memes, cooking tutorials, extreme sports POVs, and more!Imagine the NBA creating playable highlights reels, movie studios releasing trailers that are games, and car companies making commercials where you virtually test drive their cars. Overplays app and licensable technology allows billions of creators, social media users, and brands to amplify audience engagement by making their content interactive.Overplay sits at the intersection of three massive markets: social media, video advertising, and casual gaming. We are merging everything that makes these markets successful into one revolutionary form of digital media that will be consumed and created by BILLIONs of potential Overplayers worldwideWith Overplays API, brands can apply a thin layer of gaming on top of videos already being streamed in advertisements. Because our technology is so simple and takes only a few minutes, Overplay cuts down on thousands of hours of production time and millions of dollars in costs for brands to leverage this highly engaging ad format.

This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice.

Contact Details

Caroline Strzalka

caroline@overplay.com

Company Website

https://overplay.com/

View source version on newsdirect.com: https://newsdirect.com/news/is-gamification-the-future-of-advertising-heres-how-one-company-is-shaking-up-the-industry-840289131

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Press Release

Fork and Flare Elevates Charcuterie Boards and Grazing Tables Across Orange Countys Entertaining Scene

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Fork and Flare Charcuterie and Grazing Tables, founded by Kelsey Lynne in Costa Mesa, redefines Orange County entertaining with artisanal charcuterie boards, grazing tables, and workshops that blend local flavor, creative design, and community connection across Southern California.

Costa Mesa, CA, United States, 8th Oct 2025 – – Fork and Flare Charcuterie and Grazing Tables is revolutionizing entertaining throughout all of Southern California through custom charcuterie boards, grazing tables, and event catering that unite individuals through flavor, texture, and presentation. Established by local entrepreneur and food stylist Kelsey Lynne, the company is Orange County’s signature representative for contemporary grazing experiences, raising the bar for creativity and presentation for its industry.

In essence, Fork and Flare produces edible art—pairing gourmet cheeses, farm-cured meats, fresh produce, and handmade accompaniments into stunning presentations designed to please both your taste buds and your eye. From large charcuterie boards and intimate date-night boxes to stylish grazing tables for corporate occasions and weddings—each order is handcrafted, of the season, and directly sourced from local marketplaces and local farms.

“Charcuterie is more than food—it’s connection,” said Kelsey Lynne, Founder and Creative Director of Fork and Flare. “We want every board to feel personal and inspiring. Whether it’s a cozy get-together or a 200-person celebration, our boards make people stop, look, and share. They create moments.”

Blossoming Trend: Charcuterie Gains Popularity as an Orange County Staple

This growth of grazing culture here in Orange County reflects a broader national trend of experiential dining. With food being as eye-worthy as it is palate-worthy, Fork and Flare has separated itself by concentrating on creativity, freshness, and neighborhood hospitality. Each charcuterie board and grazing table is crafted to tell a story—celebrating local flavors, handcrafted cheeses, and the connections made around food.

Popular offerings include:

  • Signature Charcuterie Boards of Various Sizes (Small, Medium, Medium-Plus, and Large)
  • Brunch Boards with mini waffles, cured meats, and fruit of the season
  • Gluten-Free Charcuterie Boards Using allergen-safe picks
  • Crudités Cups and Boards for raw, crunchy vegetable grazing
  • Dessert and Candy Boards, such as the charming S’mores Dessert Board
  • Spicy Charcuterie Boards for Fearless Eaters

Each of their boards offers easy serving and beautiful presentation—perfect for parties, open houses, bridal showers, and business events. Fork and Flare boards have appeared at weddings, real estate agent opens, new brand rollouts, and high-end pop-ups across the county.

From Grazing Tables to Workshops: A Growing Community Through Food

Apart from its catering and delivery service, Fork and Flare has become a creative space for community experiences. The brand holds seasonal workshops during which guests are taught how to make their own charcuterie boards, including a fine blending of food education and socialization.

Their latest event—The Spooky-Chic Charcuterie Workshop hosted by L’emi Boutique in Mission Viejo—nearly sold out on its first day of opening. Participants will learn to layer cheese, fold prosciutto roses, and create seasonal boards showcasing fall ingredients such as figs, honeycomb, and edible flowers. Everyone will take home a completed Halloween-themed board and memories of laughter, drinks, and communal creativity.

These interactive workshops are a reflection of the mission of the business to make things both fun and accessible when it’s related to food.

“We’re excited to see people become confident about being creative,” Lynne described. “You don’t have to be a chef to create something pretty. You just have to be curious—and have a good cheese knife.”

Where Local Ingredients and Shared Moments Meet

With increasing interest in local artisan catering, Fork and Flare has emphasized sustainability, quality procurement, and design originality. All boards are made using environmentally friendly items like reusable acacia boards, compost cups, and recyclable containers. The company also collaborates with local beekeepers, bakeries, and small-run meat makers, so each element benefits the regional food economy.

Fork and Flare also provides corporate catering options designed for offices, brokers, and event planners—with themed boards for your brand, custom logo stickers, and menu selection. Large events feature charcuterie grazing tables that are full-scale visual centerpieces, blending buffet extravagance and sophisticated fine dining experiences.

About Fork and Flare

Fork and Flare Charcuterie and Grazing Tables is a catering company based in Orange County and committed to outstanding charcuterie boards, grazing tables, and event experiences. They bring visual design, food styling, and hospitality to produce sophisticated events throughout Costa Mesa, Irvine, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Mission Viejo, and other communities. Fork and Flare provides delivery, custom orders, and private workshops year-round.

Media Contact

Organization: Fork and Flare

Contact Person: Kelsey

Website: https://forkandflare.com

Email: Send Email

Contact Number: +19497096337

Address:350 Clinton St.

City: Costa Mesa

State: CA

Country:United States

Release id:35016

The post Fork and Flare Elevates Charcuterie Boards and Grazing Tables Across Orange Countys Entertaining Scene appeared first on King Newswire. This content is provided by a third-party source.. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it. King Newswire is a press release distribution agency and does not endorse or verify the claims made in this release. If you have any complaints or copyright concerns related to this article, please contact the company listed in the ‘Media Contact’ section

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Press Release

Viking HVAC Expands Commercial Services in Phoenix Valley

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Viking Heating & Air Conditioning, a trusted family-owned HVAC contractor based in Chandler, Arizona, announces the significant expansion of its commercial HVAC services throughout the Phoenix Metro Valley.

Chandler, Arizona, United States, 8th Oct 2025 – Viking Heating & Air Conditioning, a trusted family-owned HVAC contractor serving the Phoenix Metro Valley since 2016, announces the significant expansion of its commercial HVAC services to meet growing demand from businesses throughout Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Queen Creek, and Tempe.

The expansion positions Viking to serve a broader range of commercial clients, from small office buildings and retail spaces to restaurants, healthcare facilities, and large industrial operations requiring comprehensive heating, cooling, and ventilation solutions.

“We’ve built our reputation on honest service, transparent pricing, and exceptional customer care in the residential market,” said the Viking HVAC team. “Now we’re bringing that same commitment to businesses throughout the Phoenix Valley. Commercial clients deserve the same level of integrity and expertise that has made us a trusted name among homeowners.”

Comprehensive Commercial HVAC Solutions

Viking’s expanded commercial ventilation and air quality services address the unique challenges businesses face in Arizona’s extreme climate. The company now offers complete commercial solutions including:

  • Commercial AC Installation & Replacement: Custom design and installation for offices, retail spaces, restaurants, and industrial facilities
  • 24/7 Commercial Emergency Repair: Rapid response teams available around the clock to minimize business disruption
  • Preventative Maintenance Programs: Customized maintenance plans designed to protect HVAC investments and prevent costly breakdowns
  • Commercial Air Purification: Advanced filtration systems for healthcare, hospitality, and food service industries
  • Commercial Kitchen Ventilation: Specialized solutions for restaurants and food preparation facilities
  • Energy Efficiency Consulting: Expert analysis to reduce operational costs and improve system performance
  • Building Automation Integration: Smart building controls and monitoring systems

Understanding Commercial HVAC Complexity

Commercial HVAC systems differ significantly from residential units in both scale and operational demands. These systems must handle larger spaces, variable occupancy loads, and diverse requirements while maintaining consistent performance throughout demanding schedules.

“Commercial businesses in the Phoenix Valley face unique challenges,” explained Viking’s technical team. “When temperatures exceed 115°F for months on end, commercial HVAC systems work at maximum capacity. One system failure can disrupt business operations, impact customer experience, and cost thousands in lost revenue.”

Modern commercial systems integrate multiple components including rooftop units, chillers, boilers, air handlers, and sophisticated control systems. Building automation systems now control most commercial operations, monitoring temperature zones and adjusting performance based on occupancy patterns and environmental conditions.

Preventive Maintenance as Business Protection

Viking’s commercial expansion emphasizes preventive maintenance as the foundation of system reliability. The company’s comprehensive maintenance programs prevent minor issues from developing into major failures that disrupt business operations.

“Commercial HVAC represents 40-60% of most businesses’ energy consumption,” noted Viking’s service managers. “Proper maintenance can reduce these costs by 15-20% while preventing emergency breakdowns during peak summer months when repairs are most expensive and disruptive.”

Viking’s preventive maintenance programs include:

  • Customized filter replacement schedules based on environmental conditions and usage patterns
  • Professional coil cleaning to maintain optimal heat transfer efficiency
  • Belt inspection and adjustment to prevent unexpected failures
  • Refrigerant level checks to ensure adequate cooling capacity
  • Ductwork inspection to identify efficiency-reducing leaks
  • Control system calibration for accurate temperature management
  • Comprehensive system documentation and performance tracking

Energy Efficiency Focus Reduces Operating Costs

Energy efficiency optimization forms a cornerstone of Viking’s commercial services. The company helps businesses reduce operational expenses through smart scheduling, zone control systems, and strategic equipment upgrades.

“We’ve seen businesses reduce energy consumption by 20-30% through optimized scheduling and zone control,” explained Viking’s efficiency specialists. “When you’re only conditioning occupied areas and running systems during actual business hours, the savings add up quickly.”

Viking’s energy efficiency services include:

  • Occupancy-based scheduling to eliminate unnecessary operation
  • Zone control implementation for large facilities
  • Thermostat and sensor calibration to prevent overcooling
  • High-efficiency equipment recommendations during replacement cycles
  • Utility rebate program navigation to offset upgrade costs
  • Energy usage analysis and reporting

Indoor Air Quality Management

Commercial indoor air quality has gained increased attention as businesses recognize its impact on employee productivity and customer comfort. Viking’s expanded services include comprehensive ventilation solutions that ensure compliance with industry standards while optimizing energy efficiency.

“Different business types have specific ventilation requirements,” noted Viking’s air quality specialists. “Restaurants need different solutions than healthcare facilities or office buildings. Our team understands these requirements and designs systems that meet both regulatory standards and operational needs.”

Viking’s air quality services address humidity control to prevent mold growth and protect sensitive equipment, advanced filtration to remove particulates and allergens, and proper ventilation to maintain fresh air circulation throughout commercial spaces.

Emergency Preparedness and 24/7 Response

Understanding that HVAC failures can severely impact business operations, Viking offers 24/7 emergency commercial services with priority response for maintenance program members.

“When a restaurant’s AC fails during lunch rush or an office building loses cooling on a 115-degree day, every minute counts,” emphasized Viking’s emergency response team. “Our commercial clients get priority response because we understand the financial impact of HVAC downtime.”

Viking’s emergency services include:

  • Around-the-clock availability for critical failures
  • Rapid diagnosis using advanced diagnostic equipment
  • Well-stocked service vehicles for same-visit repairs
  • Temporary cooling solutions during extended repairs
  • Emergency system monitoring and alerts

Technology Integration and Smart Solutions

Viking’s commercial services leverage modern building automation technology to provide unprecedented control and monitoring capabilities. The company offers integration with building management systems, predictive maintenance technologies, and energy management platforms.

“Smart building technology allows businesses to monitor system performance in real-time, identify developing problems before they cause failures, and optimize energy usage based on actual occupancy patterns,” explained Viking’s technology specialists. “These systems provide detailed analytics that support data-driven maintenance and operational decisions.”

Serving Diverse Commercial Industries

Viking’s expanded commercial services support businesses across multiple industries throughout the Phoenix Valley:

  • Restaurants and Food Service: Kitchen ventilation, dining area comfort control, and code-compliant installations
  • Retail Spaces: Customer comfort optimization and energy-efficient solutions
  • Office Buildings: Zone-based climate control and air quality management
  • Healthcare Facilities: Precise environmental control and air purification
  • Manufacturing and Warehouses: Industrial-scale cooling and ventilation
  • Hospitality: Guest comfort and energy efficiency optimization

The Viking Difference in Commercial Service

Viking brings its proven residential service philosophy to the commercial market:

  • No Hidden Fees: Transparent, upfront pricing with detailed proposals
  • 100% Customer Satisfaction Guarantee: Standing behind every installation and repair
  • Licensed, Bonded & Insured: Professional credentials and comprehensive insurance
  • Local Expertise: Deep understanding of Arizona’s climate challenges
  • Family-Owned Commitment: Personal service and accountability
  • 40+ Years Combined Experience: Seasoned technicians with extensive training

About Viking Heating & Air Conditioning

Founded in 2016, Viking Heating & Air Conditioning is a family-owned and operated HVAC contractor serving the Phoenix Metro Valley. Based in Chandler, Arizona, Viking provides comprehensive heating, cooling, and air quality solutions for residential and commercial clients throughout Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Queen Creek, and Tempe.

Known for honest service, transparent pricing, and exceptional customer care, Viking operates under the tagline “The Bridge Between You and Comfort.” The company services all major HVAC brands and offers 24/7 emergency service to ensure client comfort during Arizona’s extreme weather conditions.

Viking holds all required licenses and insurance, maintains an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, and has built a strong reputation through positive customer reviews and community relationships.

Contact Information

Viking Heating & Air Conditioning
3225 N Arizona Ave Suite C-12
Chandler, AZ 85225

Phone: (480) 689-5167
Email: info@viking-hvac.com
Website: www.viking-hvac.com
Google Business Profile: https://g.co/kgs/ZD1yBA6

Service Area: Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Queen Creek, Tempe, and surrounding Phoenix Metro Valley communities

Hours: 24/7 Emergency Service Available
Monday-Friday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday: Emergency Service Only

For media inquiries, commercial service information, or to schedule a free commercial system evaluation, contact Viking Heating & Air Conditioning at (480) 689-5167 or visit www.viking-hvac.com.

Media Contact

Organization: Viking HVAC

Contact Person: Nikki Bridge

Website: https://www.viking-hvac.com

Email: Send Email

City: Chandler

State: Arizona

Country:United States

Release id:35000

The post Viking HVAC Expands Commercial Services in Phoenix Valley appeared first on King Newswire. This content is provided by a third-party source.. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it. King Newswire is a press release distribution agency and does not endorse or verify the claims made in this release. If you have any complaints or copyright concerns related to this article, please contact the company listed in the ‘Media Contact’ section

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Press Release

X1 EcoChain Announces $5M Grants and Galxe Starboard Community Program

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X1 EcoChain, the world’s first sustainable DePIN Layer-1 blockchain, is unveiling two initiatives aimed at strengthening both its technical foundation and global community: a $5 million Grant Program for developers and Galxe Starboard, a contributor rewards campaign worth $100,000.

Builder Grants: $5 Million to Drive Web4 Innovation

X1 EcoChain is investing directly into its ecosystem through a $5M grant initiative designed to accelerate real-world adoption of decentralized technologies. The program is open to builders working on projects in DePIN, DeFi, decentralized storage, computing, digital identity, gaming, and metaverse applications.

  • Grant awards: $25,000 – $400,000
  • Timeline: 90–120 days per project
  • Core requirements: scalable solutions, EVM compatibility, robust design

Unlike comparable funding efforts by other blockchains, this program emphasizes ultra-efficient, household-powered decentralization. X1Nodes — consuming only 3 Wh of energy — are already deployed across 65+ countries, forming the backbone of a truly distributed infrastructure.

Priority development areas include:

  • Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks (DePIN)
  • Mobile and payment innovations
  • DeFi solutions with real utility
  • dApps for storage and computation
  • Trust, reputation, and identity systems
  • SDKs and tools for faster developer onboarding

Galxe Starboard: $100K for Community Impact

Decentralization is not only about technology — it is powered by people. With Galxe Starboard, X1 EcoChain is allocating $100,000 in X1 Coins to recognize contributors who expand the ecosystem through knowledge, creativity, and influence.

Season 1 (September 25 – November 25, 2025):

  • Rewards: $50,000 in X1 Coins
  • Beneficiaries: 200 top-ranked contributors
  • Criteria: merit-based, rewarding impact rather than luck

How to earn points:

  • Publish explainers, deep dives, and thought pieces
  • Create engaging visuals — infographics, memes, videos
  • Share validator perspectives and ecosystem insights
  • Drive meaningful conversations and educational outreach

Every authentic contribution strengthens the network, and those who add the most value rise on the leaderboard.

Why It Matters

Most blockchain networks still depend on centralized, energy-intensive data centers. X1 EcoChain offers a radically different approach: a network sustained by plug-and-play nodes using less power than an LED bulb. This model expands access to anyone, anywhere, while remaining environmentally responsible.

Building the Web4 Era

By combining a $5M builder program with a $100K community campaign, X1 EcoChain is advancing both sides of its ecosystem — infrastructure and people. This dual-track strategy underlines the project’s vision: a global, green, community-powered blockchain that moves beyond the limitations of servers and centralized hardware.

About X1 EcoChain

X1 EcoChain is the first decentralized and eco-friendly Layer-1 blockchain running on 3 Wh X1Nodes spread across 65+ countries. Operating on a Proof-of-Authority model, it provides scalability, security, and low-cost transactions while supporting:

  • EVM-compatible smart contracts
  • Cross-chain connectivity
  • Token generation tools
  • Comprehensive developer SDKs

With over 6,000 nodes online and a rapidly expanding ecosystem, X1 EcoChain is proving that blockchain can be lightweight, accessible, and truly decentralized.

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