Weaponization of Ignorance: How Lies and Misinformation Divided America
By Stephen M. Fry, Ph.D.
Paperback released on Amazon November 1, 2025 | Kindle edition early 2026
Published by SBDI Publishing

EL DORADO HILLS, CALIFORNIA / ACCESS Newswire / November 3, 2025 / In an era when facts compete with falsehoods for public trust, Weaponization of Ignorance: How Lies and Misinformation Divided America offers a timely and piercing look at how disinformation has undermined American democracy and the nation’s shared sense of truth.

Written by researcher and author Stephen M. Fry, Ph.D., the book examines how the political right-and the partisan media ecosystem that supports it-has exploited cognitive bias, identity politics, and emotional manipulation to divide the nation and erode confidence in democratic institutions. Based on decades of interdisciplinary research in psychology, political science, and media studies, Fry reveals how propaganda has evolved into a deliberate political tool capable of shaping perception, loyalty, and belief.

"Ignorance today isn’t simply the absence of knowledge," Fry writes. "It’s the product of disinformation-carefully cultivated and weaponized to serve the political narrative."

The book explores:

• How partisan media and social algorithms amplify falsehoods

• Why educated people believe disinformation and reject credible sources

• How psychological vulnerabilities are exploited for political gain

• What we can do to rebuild truth, trust, and civic discourse

Accessible yet deeply researched, Weaponization of Ignorance avoids partisan vilification. Instead, it offers an empathetic basis for understanding why friends, neighbors, and family members can seem to be living in an alternate reality-and how they can respond constructively without deepening division.

Fry’s synthesis bridges scientific insight and the lived experience of modern American politics. The result is a book that empowers readers to recognize manipulation, question sources, and help rebuild a shared commitment to truth.

About the Author
Stephen M. Fry, Ph.D., is a physicist, technologist, entrepreneur, and author with over four decades of experience in research, corporate leadership, and publishing. A research-trained writer and concerned American citizen, Fry has focused in recent years on how misinformation and media manipulation can divide society. He holds a Ph.D. in Quantum Electronics and has authored nine technical books. He lives in El Dorado Hills, California, with his wife, and their border collie.

Availability
Paperback available November 1, 2025, on Amazon
Kindle edition releasing early 2026
ISBN: 978-0-9858286-5-3

Contact Information

Stephen Fry
Author
info@sbdipublishing.com
(916) 220-6676
Website: www.WeaponizationofIgnorance.com

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / November 3, 2025 / Mediabistro, the trusted community for media professionals, today announced the launch of its revitalized site design and the appointment of Matt Charney as Executive Editor. The relaunch brings new creative energy to one of media’s most recognizable brands while reinforcing its commitment to quality, insight, and innovation.

A Renewed Creative Identity

Founded in the late 1990s, Mediabistro quickly became a cultural landmark for journalists, publishers, and creative professionals. The new design reintroduces the color, vibrancy, and personality that defined its early years, while modernizing the user experience for today’s digital media landscape.

"As Mediabistro evolves, we’re proud to celebrate the originality and passion that built its legacy while positioning it for the next generation of creative professionals," said Miles Jennings, CEO of Mediabistro. "Our redesign reflects the moment we’re in, where technology can amplify human creativity."

Charney Joins as Executive Editor

Mediabistro has appointed Matt Charney, one of the most respected voices in content, marketing, and media strategy, to lead its editorial direction. Charney has held senior communications and editorial roles with The Walt Disney Company, Warner Bros. Entertainment, Monster Worldwide, Cornerstone OnDemand, Allegis Global Solutions, SmartRecruiters, and HR.com.

He is recognized for transforming global brands through storytelling, thought leadership, and creative strategy, building platforms that blend editorial excellence with measurable business impact. Charney’s experience spans Hollywood studios, Fortune 500 corporations, and high-growth technology companies, bringing a uniquely cross-industry perspective to Mediabistro’s creative mission.

"Mediabistro has always been where creativity meets career," said Charney. "Our goal is to honor that history while redefining what it means to be a media professional in the age of AI and constant reinvention."

About Mediabistro

Mediabistro connects job seekers, creators, and employers across the media and creative industries. Since its founding, it has evolved from a grassroots gathering place into a trusted destination for professionals in journalism, creative writing, design, publishing, marketing, advertising, and beyond. Visit Mediabistro at https://www.mediabistro.com.

Contact:
Matt Charney
editor@mediabistro.com

Forward-Looking Statements and Legal Disclaimer
This press release may contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including, without limitation, statements regarding the planned spinout of CognoGroup, Inc., expected strategic initiatives, future operations, and anticipated financial performance. Forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates, and assumptions and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied. These include, but are not limited to, risks related to regulatory approvals, market conditions, transaction timing, execution challenges, and other factors described in the filings of CognoGroup, Inc. and Nixxy, Inc. with the Securities and Exchange Commission. There can be no assurance that any proposed transaction or spinout will be completed as currently contemplated, or at all. Neither CognoGroup, Inc. nor Nixxy, Inc. undertakes any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, except as required by law.

All trademarks and registered trademarks mentioned herein are the property of their respective owners.

No Offer or Solicitation
This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities of CognoGroup, Inc., Nixxy, Inc., or any affiliate, nor shall there be any sale of such securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under applicable securities laws.

Non-GAAP / Informational Nature
Any financial or operational metrics mentioned are presented for illustrative purposes only and may include unaudited or forward-looking information. Such data should not be relied upon as indicative of future performance.

SOURCE: Mediabistro

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / November 3, 2025 / Mediabistro, the trusted community for media professionals, today announced the launch of its revitalized site design and the appointment of Matt Charney as Executive Editor. The relaunch brings new creative energy to one of media’s most recognizable brands while reinforcing its commitment to quality, insight, and innovation.

A Renewed Creative Identity

Founded in the late 1990s, Mediabistro quickly became a cultural landmark for journalists, publishers, and creative professionals. The new design reintroduces the color, vibrancy, and personality that defined its early years, while modernizing the user experience for today’s digital media landscape.

"As Mediabistro evolves, we’re proud to celebrate the originality and passion that built its legacy while positioning it for the next generation of creative professionals," said Miles Jennings, CEO of Mediabistro. "Our redesign reflects the moment we’re in, where technology can amplify human creativity."

Charney Joins as Executive Editor

Mediabistro has appointed Matt Charney, one of the most respected voices in content, marketing, and media strategy, to lead its editorial direction. Charney has held senior communications and editorial roles with The Walt Disney Company, Warner Bros. Entertainment, Monster Worldwide, Cornerstone OnDemand, Allegis Global Solutions, SmartRecruiters, and HR.com.

He is recognized for transforming global brands through storytelling, thought leadership, and creative strategy, building platforms that blend editorial excellence with measurable business impact. Charney’s experience spans Hollywood studios, Fortune 500 corporations, and high-growth technology companies, bringing a uniquely cross-industry perspective to Mediabistro’s creative mission.

"Mediabistro has always been where creativity meets career," said Charney. "Our goal is to honor that history while redefining what it means to be a media professional in the age of AI and constant reinvention."

About Mediabistro

Mediabistro connects job seekers, creators, and employers across the media and creative industries. Since its founding, it has evolved from a grassroots gathering place into a trusted destination for professionals in journalism, creative writing, design, publishing, marketing, advertising, and beyond. Visit Mediabistro at https://www.mediabistro.com.

Contact:
Matt Charney
editor@mediabistro.com

Forward-Looking Statements and Legal Disclaimer
This press release may contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including, without limitation, statements regarding the planned spinout of CognoGroup, Inc., expected strategic initiatives, future operations, and anticipated financial performance. Forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates, and assumptions and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied. These include, but are not limited to, risks related to regulatory approvals, market conditions, transaction timing, execution challenges, and other factors described in the filings of CognoGroup, Inc. and Nixxy, Inc. with the Securities and Exchange Commission. There can be no assurance that any proposed transaction or spinout will be completed as currently contemplated, or at all. Neither CognoGroup, Inc. nor Nixxy, Inc. undertakes any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, except as required by law.

All trademarks and registered trademarks mentioned herein are the property of their respective owners.

No Offer or Solicitation
This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities of CognoGroup, Inc., Nixxy, Inc., or any affiliate, nor shall there be any sale of such securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under applicable securities laws.

Non-GAAP / Informational Nature
Any financial or operational metrics mentioned are presented for illustrative purposes only and may include unaudited or forward-looking information. Such data should not be relied upon as indicative of future performance.

SOURCE: Mediabistro

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

The show airs as sponsored programming and includes TV commercials for Laser Photonics, The Sustainable Green Team (OTC:SGTM), PetVivo Holdings, Inc. , and Synergy CHC Corp.

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK / ACCESS Newswire / October 31, 2025 / New to The Street, one of America’s longest-running business television brands, announces its upcoming broadcast of Show #696 on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at 6:30 PM EST on Bloomberg Television, featuring in-depth interviews with executives from Synergy CHC Corp. (NASDAQ:SNYR), FLOKI, American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:AREB), Aeries Technology (NASDAQ:AERT), and Laser Photonics Corporation (NASDAQ:LASE).

About the Broadcast

Episode #696 continues New to The Street’s mission of featuring market innovators and publicly traded companies that are redefining their industries. The broadcast highlights growth strategies, partnerships, and market catalysts as each company positions itself for success heading into 2026.

Filmed at the Nasdaq MarketSite and New York Stock Exchange, this episode provides investors with direct insight from the C-suite level, reinforcing New to The Street’s reputation as the go-to destination for corporate storytelling on national television.

About New to The Street

New to The Street is one of the longest-running U.S. and international sponsored and syndicated business television brands. The program airs weekly on major U.S. networks, including Bloomberg Television and Fox Business, showcasing public and private companies, innovators, and thought leaders.

With over 3.7 million YouTube subscribers, nationwide distribution to 124 million U.S. television homes, and global Times Square billboard exposure, New to The Street combines sponsored programming, earned media, and iconic outdoor visibility, making it the #2 digital financial news brand after The Wall Street Journal.

Learn more at www.NewToTheStreet.com

Media Contact:
Monica Brennan
Media Relations – New to The Street
Monica@NewToTheStreet.com

SOURCE: New To The Street

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

• Mohamed El-Etreby: The National Bank of Egypt is proud of its strategic role in supporting Egyptian heritage.

• Hesham Talaat: GEM is a milestone that is reshaping Egypt’s cultural landscape and presenting the nation to the world in a truly magnificent light.

• Sir Mohamed Mansour: The museum’s opening is a significant moment for Egyptian tourism.

• Ahmed Ezz: We are proud that our rebars have been used in the construction of this iconic landmark.

• Hassan Allam: Proud to operate the GEM under a public-private Partnership Agreement

• Khaled Abbas: GEM is a declaration of Egypt’s enduring greatness, a fusion of legacy and progress that will inspire generations to come.

CAIRO, EG / ACCESS Newswire / October 31, 2025 / Egypt is set to open the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) in November, an event billed as one of the most significant cultural milestones of the decade.

Several leading Egyptian companies are official partners in the project, highlighting the role of national institutions in supporting culture and tourism.

Hesham Talaat Moustafa, CEO of Talaat Moustafa Group, said "We are proud to be partners in the opening of the GEM, a milestone that is reshaping Egypt’s cultural landscape and presenting the nation to the world in a truly magnificent light.

Sir Mohamed Mansour, Chairman of Mansour Group, said the opening "marks a transformative milestone for Egypt’s tourism industry", adding that the museum will showcase Egypt in its best light to the world.

Ahmed Ezz, Chairman of Ezz Steel, noted: "We are proud that our rebars have been used in the construction of this iconic landmark. We are equally honoured to partner with GEM, a monument that bridges Egypt’s 7,000 years of heritage with its bright future."

Hassan Allam, CEO of Hassan Allam Holding, highlighted, "For nearly 90 years, Hassan Allam Holding has been driving Egypt’s progress through transformative infrastructure and landmark projects. With expertise spanning engineering, construction, investment, and development across 10 countries, Egypt remains at the heart of our regional growth. We take pride in operating the Grand Egyptian Museum – a new chapter in Egypt’s journey towards building for the future."

Mohamed El-Etreby, Chairman of the National Bank of Egypt, stressed the bank’s pride in its strategic partnership: "The National Bank of Egypt, the country’s oldest financial institution and a cornerstone of its economy, is proud to be part of this project."

Khaled Abbas, Chairman and Managing Director of the Administrative Capital for Urban Development, stated that the GEM stands as a monumental gateway where the spirit of Ancient Egypt meets the bold future of our New Capital. This opening is not just a cultural milestone; it is a declaration of Egypt’s enduring greatness, a fusion of legacy and progress that will inspire generations to come.

Contact Information

Eman Salem
press@30n.org

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

• Mohamed El-Etreby: The National Bank of Egypt is proud of its strategic role in supporting Egyptian heritage.

• Hesham Talaat: GEM is a milestone that is reshaping Egypt’s cultural landscape and presenting the nation to the world in a truly magnificent light.

• Sir Mohamed Mansour: The museum’s opening is a significant moment for Egyptian tourism.

• Ahmed Ezz: We are proud that our rebars have been used in the construction of this iconic landmark.

• Hassan Allam: Proud to operate the GEM under a public-private Partnership Agreement

• Khaled Abbas: GEM is a declaration of Egypt’s enduring greatness, a fusion of legacy and progress that will inspire generations to come.

CAIRO, EG / ACCESS Newswire / October 31, 2025 / Egypt is set to open the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) in November, an event billed as one of the most significant cultural milestones of the decade.

Several leading Egyptian companies are official partners in the project, highlighting the role of national institutions in supporting culture and tourism.

Hesham Talaat Moustafa, CEO of Talaat Moustafa Group, said "We are proud to be partners in the opening of the GEM, a milestone that is reshaping Egypt’s cultural landscape and presenting the nation to the world in a truly magnificent light.

Sir Mohamed Mansour, Chairman of Mansour Group, said the opening "marks a transformative milestone for Egypt’s tourism industry", adding that the museum will showcase Egypt in its best light to the world.

Ahmed Ezz, Chairman of Ezz Steel, noted: "We are proud that our rebars have been used in the construction of this iconic landmark. We are equally honoured to partner with GEM, a monument that bridges Egypt’s 7,000 years of heritage with its bright future."

Hassan Allam, CEO of Hassan Allam Holding, highlighted, "For nearly 90 years, Hassan Allam Holding has been driving Egypt’s progress through transformative infrastructure and landmark projects. With expertise spanning engineering, construction, investment, and development across 10 countries, Egypt remains at the heart of our regional growth. We take pride in operating the Grand Egyptian Museum – a new chapter in Egypt’s journey towards building for the future."

Mohamed El-Etreby, Chairman of the National Bank of Egypt, stressed the bank’s pride in its strategic partnership: "The National Bank of Egypt, the country’s oldest financial institution and a cornerstone of its economy, is proud to be part of this project."

Khaled Abbas, Chairman and Managing Director of the Administrative Capital for Urban Development, stated that the GEM stands as a monumental gateway where the spirit of Ancient Egypt meets the bold future of our New Capital. This opening is not just a cultural milestone; it is a declaration of Egypt’s enduring greatness, a fusion of legacy and progress that will inspire generations to come.

Contact Information

Eman Salem
press@30n.org

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

Luanda hosts 3rd Summit on Infrastructure Financing in Africa

LUANDA, ANGOLA / ACCESS Newswire / October 30, 2025 / As part of Angola’s presidency of the African Union (https://AU.int/), Luanda will host the 3rd Summit on Infrastructure Financing for Infrastructure Development in Africa from 28 to 31 October 2025, a high-level event that will bring together political leaders, investors, financial institutions, business associations, academics and multilateral organizations from Africa and Europe.

The Summit is a strategic platform for dialogue and cooperation, aimed at mobilizing sustainable and inclusive funding for energy, transport, water, communications and technological innovation projects, with the aim of accelerating the development and infrastructural integration of the African continent.

Connecting Africa, Building the Future

Under the slogan "Connecting Africa, Building the Future", this edition of the Summit aims to:

• Strengthen Africa-Europe partnerships and promote green and sustainable investment models;

• Encourage public-private partnerships (PPP) and new forms of blended financing;

• Valorising cross-border projects that boost regional and economic integration;

• Prioritize innovation, sustainability and resilience in the planning and execution of infrastructures.

The meeting reflects the commitment of Angola and the African Union to promoting transformative infrastructures that connect communities, boost trade and create opportunities for future generations.

Summit Content

The program of the 3rd Summit will include:

• Plenary sessions and thematic panels on financing, innovation, energy transition and digital connectivity;

• Exhibition of infrastructure projects underway and in the structuring phase in various African countries;

• Side events, bilateral and multilateral meetings designed to facilitate direct dialogue between governments, investors and financial institutions;

• Spaces for networking and promoting strategic partnerships, to identify new investment opportunities and technical co-operation.

The Summit will thus be a milestone in building bridges between Africa and its global partners, strengthening trust and the capacity for joint action towards sustainable development.

Meaning and Perspective

The organization of the 3rd Summit in Luanda reflects the recognition of Angola’s role as a driving force for regional cooperation and its commitment to promoting African solutions to African challenges.

The event is part of the African Union’s Agenda 2063 vision and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), reflecting the continent’s determination to consolidate resilient, innovative and inclusive infrastructures.

General Information

• Date: 28 to 31 October 2025

• Location: Marginal de Luanda (near the Port of Luanda), Angola

• Theme: Connecting Africa, Building the Future

• Organization: Government of Angola, through the Ministry of Public Works, Urbanism and Housing, in partnership with AUDA-NEPAD and the African Union (PIDA – Infrastructure Development Program in Africa)

• Expected participants: Heads of state, ministers, political decision-makers, international financial institutions, the private sector, academia and the specialized press

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Union (AU).

Image: https://apo-opa.co/3L8uCjj

Contact:

marie@apo-opa.com

SOURCE: APO Group

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK / ACCESS Newswire / October 30, 2025 / New to The Street, the nationally televised business program, announces that Synergy CHC Corp. (NASDAQ:SNYR) will be the featured company and main interview on Bloomberg Television as part of the upcoming "New to The Street" broadcast airing Saturday, November 1st at 6:30 PM ET as sponsored programming.

The episode spotlights Synergy CHC’s leadership team, who share insights on the company’s continued growth, innovative marketing, and expanding retail footprint for its flagship Focus Factor® brand and related consumer wellness products. Viewers will gain a deeper understanding of Synergy’s position in the growing health and performance supplement market and its strategic roadmap for future expansion.

Filmed at the New York Stock Exchange, the segment will also air across New to The Street’s rapidly growing digital network, including YouTube (3.5M+ subscribers), LinkedIn, X (Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram.

About Synergy CHC Corp. (NASDAQ:SNYR):
Synergy CHC Corp. is a leading consumer health and wellness company that owns and markets a diverse portfolio of brands across multiple retail channels. Its flagship product, Focus Factor®, is the #1 brain health supplement brand in the U.S., available in major retailers nationwide and online. Learn more at www.synergychc.com.

About New to The Street:
New to The Street is a nationally syndicated business television show that profiles innovative public and private companies, airing weekly as sponsored programming on Bloomberg and Fox Business. With over 3.5 million YouTube subscribers, 500K+ social followers, and earned media across major networks, New to The Street provides unmatched exposure through its multi-platform distribution.

Media Contact:
Monica Brennan
Monica@NewtoTheStreet.com
www.NewToTheStreet.com

SOURCE: New To The Street

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

Minneapolis Convention Center Hosted Midwest’s Design and Manufacturing Event October 21-22, 2025

MINNEAPOLIS, MN / ACCESS Newswire / October 30, 2025 / MD&M Midwest 2025 successfully concluded last week, reinforcing its position as the Midwest’s largest annual end-to-end design and manufacturing event. The milestone 30 ^th anniversary celebration attracted record attendance as the two-day conference and exhibition united industry leaders, innovators and manufacturers across five co-located shows spanning the complete manufacturing spectrum: medtech, automation, design and manufacturing, plastics, and packaging.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

In Adderall and Other False Prophets, author Asher Lockwood, once a respected psychiatric nurse practitioner and CEO trained at Yale, pulls back the curtain on his shocking descent into addiction, bipolar disorder, and toxic relationships that nearly destroyed his life. With unflinching honesty and dark humor, Lockwood recounts how boardrooms turned into courtrooms, psych wards replaced clinics, and even jail cells became part of his reality. More than a memoir of self-destruction, this is a story of survival and redemption.

NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / October 30, 2025 / Psychiatric nurse practitioner and former CEO Asher Lockwood announces the release of his memoir, Adderall and Other False Prophets, a fearless account of his six-year descent into addiction, betrayal, and mental illness, and the hard climb back to sobriety and redemption.

Once at the height of professional success, Lockwood’s life spiraled as Adderall dependence, bipolar disorder, and a toxic marriage stripped him of his career, family, and freedom. With brutal honesty and dark humor, he recounts how courtrooms replaced boardrooms, psych wards replaced clinics, and jail cells replaced home.

But Lockwood’s memoir is more than destruction – it’s about survival. On August 23, 2022, his son’s birthday, he walked away from Adderall and cocaine forever, reclaiming his life and purpose.

Adderall and Other False Prophets is now available: https://www.asherlockwood.com/

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View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire