Category Archives: Government

Virginia Department of Labor and Industry recognizes Lockheed Martin for exceptional safety and health practices

RICHMOND, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- Lockheed Martin Rotary and Mission Systems in Manassas, Virginia has been reapproved as a Virginia STAR Worksite under the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry's Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP).

Lockheed Martin's Manassas facility is one of 37 STAR public and private sector worksites recognized by VOSH. The company is primarily engaged in the development of limited production and prototype sensors, navigation, and surveillance hardware and software for defense and security agencies. There are 1,241 full-time employees at the 1,200,000 square feet workspace located on a 176-acre site. This site is the only Lockheed Martin VPP STAR worksite in Virginia and one of five Lockheed Martin VPP STAR participants in the nation.

The Virginia VPP recognizes and promotes exceptional safety and health management systems for Virginia's employers in all industries. In VPP, the participant's management, workers, and VOSH establish a cooperative relationship that encourages continuous improvement in worksite safety performance.

Acceptance into Virginia's VPP is confirmation and recognition that an employer has achieved safety and health excellence well above their industry peers. The VOSH VPP administers the Virginia STAR, Virginia Challenge, VADOC Challenge, Virginia BEST, and Virginia BUILT programs. For more information about this program or the other services we offer, visit our website at https://www.doli.virginia.gov/voluntary-protection-program/

The Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) program is financed in part by a grant from the U. S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), under §23(g) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970.

The Virginia On-Site Consultation Cooperative Agreement program is financed in part by a grant from the U. S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), under §21(d) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970.

Learn more at: https://www.doli.virginia.gov/

Lockheed Martin Rotary and Mission Systems in Manassas, Virginia has been reapproved as a Virginia STAR Worksite under the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry's Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP).

Related link: https://www.doli.virginia.gov/

Co-Chairs Announced for 2nd Annual United Diversity Business Summit, Cameron Robb, Jackie Johnson and Art Hamilton

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. /ScoopCloud/ -- Building on the impact and success of 2021 "United Diversity Business Summit," bringing together a trifecta of leadership and insight, the 2nd annual Summit has announced its distinguished co-chairs: Cameron Robb, Senior Development Consultant at APS; Jackie Johnson, City of Scottsdale Diversity Director; and former Arizona State Representative Art Hamilton. Presented by Thinkzilla Consulting Group and the City of Scottsdale, the Sept. 14 summit will convene diverse business leaders and entrepreneurs from across Arizona to share ideas and innovations.

With this expanded leadership team, the United Diversity Business Summit will spearhead break-out sessions and training workshops covering various topics and industries. With the aim of moving 100 or more companies forward and expanding fast-growing diverse small businesses across the valley.

Cameron Robb's role at APS, helps bring clean, reliable and affordable energy to more than 2.7 million Arizonans. Further diversity throughout the City of Scottsdale, Jackie Johnson sets the strategic direction for DEI initiatives, integrating diversity with the city's core mission and values. A 26-year-public servant, Art Hamilton became a state legislator at age 21 and served as minority leader of the Arizona House of Representatives for nearly two decades; he was also the first Black and only Arizonan to be elected to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

The 2022 United Diversity Business Summit will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts Center with a theme of "Enhancing the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem through Diversity, Community and Innovation." It is free for attendees.

"Creating a sustainable future for everyone in Arizona means that we must offer a path to reliable and affordable energy for everyone," Robb said. "We believe in leading the way with innovation and supporting everyone in the diverse communities we serve. I am honored to serve as co-chair for the United Diversity Business Summit and help to bring more voices and perspectives to the leader's table."

Attendees will learn from more than 25 speakers on innovative approaches and best practices to improve economic diversity outcomes for organizations and entrepreneurs. This year's summit will host two tracks: Track 1 is designed for public and private companies seeking to increase diversity outcomes and Track 2 incorporates business development programs to attract and grow the minority small business community. Workshop topics will include using disruption to advance business strategy, entrepreneurship 101, supplier diversity, inclusive decision-making, recognizing and overcoming financial challenges, and more.

"As a steady voice for the underrepresented, I appreciate the opportunity to engage greater diversity, equity and inclusion throughout Scottsdale with this summit and all of the incredible initiatives it sparks," Johnson added. "This year's event has an extraordinary wealth of talent, insight, and diverse perspectives and expertise."

Speakers for the 2022 summit include: David Ortega, Mayor of Scottsdale; Dr. Velma Trayham, CEO of Thinkzilla; Jackie Johnson, Diversity Director for the City of Scottsdale; Rob Millar, Economic Development Director for the City of Scottsdale; Art Hamilton, founder of the Art Hamilton Group; Danny Seiden, President and CEO of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Cloves Campbell, co-publisher of the Arizona Informant; Eric Standifer, President and CEO of Blaylock Van and more to be announced.

Registration is now available at https://uniteddiversitybusinesssummit.com/

About Thinkzilla Consulting Group:

ThinkZILLA is one of the country's fastest-growing DE&I Consulting, digital engagement, and program management firms. Making brands more relevant, ThinkZILLA builds meaningful connections between brands and consumers. For more information on ThinkZILLA or to schedule a consultation, please visit https://thinkzillaconsulting.com/.

About the City of Scottsdale:

Scottsdale is one of the state's leading job centers, with a diverse economy built on medical research, high-tech innovation, tourism, and corporate headquarters. Scottsdale is home to nearly 18,000 businesses supplying over 150,000 jobs. The high-tech innovation center SkySong, located just a few miles from Downtown, is designed to help companies grow through a unique partnership with nearby Arizona State University. For more information, visit https://www.choosescottsdale.com/.

Building on the impact and success of 2021 "United Diversity Business Summit, bringing together a trifecta of leadership and insight, the 2nd annual Summit has announced its distinguished co-chairs: Cameron Robb, Senior Development Consultant at APS; Jackie Johnson, City of Scottsdale Diversity Director; and former Arizona State Representative Art Hamilton. Presented by Thinkzilla Consulting Group and the City of Scottsdale.

Related link: https://thinkzillaconsulting.com/

Marching on DeSantis for Abortion Rights: Large March Planned Ahead of Florida Supreme Court Decision on 15 Week Ban

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Pro-choice protestors are taking to the capitol on August 27, 2022, ahead of the anticipated Florida Supreme Court Ruling on the 15-week abortion ban. Bans Off Our Bodies Florida, is planning to show DeSantis, and the Supreme Court Justices, that upholding this new law is an assault on equality, health, privacy and the constitution of Florida.

"The Florida Constitution clearly states, 'Every natural person has the right to be let alone and free from governmental intrusion into the person's private life.' I don't know how it could be any clearer that this means for the government to stay out of my reproductive rights," says Laura Lippo, one of the organizers of the event. "Although the U.S. Supreme Court assertively wrong in their interpretation of our rights under the 14th Amendment in the U.S Constitution, there is no ambivalence with Florida's."

So far, Florida courts have respected and upheld the privacy of Floridians from governmental intrusion; however, with a court that is stacked in DeSantis's favor, it is possible that could change.

"Just because you are able to assign people to a court with your belief system, doesn't make that belief system legal," Laura said. "DeSantis has created an assault on Floridians rights that will end in the ballot box."

The event will start with speakers followed by a peaceful march.

"DeSantis is waging this war against us," Nicole Richards, co-organizer of the event said. "On August 27th we are showing up with our presence and voice as our weapons. We will not be ignored."

Bans Off Our Bodies Florida is a campaign led by abortion rights supporters. It is a movement for reproductive rights and healthcare with rallies across the state which are intended to send a message loud and clear: All people deserve access to abortions when they need it and in the communities they live in.

LEARN MORE:

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/bansoffourbodiesflorida/

FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1056758318558916/?ref=share_group_link

Event page: https://fb.me/e/2CCBBPrFP

Instagram https://instagram.com/bansoffflorida?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

Pro-choice protestors are taking to the capitol on August 27, 2022, ahead of the anticipated Florida Supreme Court Ruling on the 15-week abortion ban. Bans Off Our Bodies Florida, is planning to show DeSantis, and the Supreme Court Justices, that upholding this new law is an assault on equality, health, privacy and the constitution of Florida.

Cole Engineering Services to develop U.S. Army’s Next Gen Soldier Virtual Trainer

ORLANDO, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Cole Engineering Services (CESI), a By Light Company, has been awarded an Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) to prototype the United States Army's Soldier Virtual Trainer (SVT). This prototype project award will extend upon the U.S. Army's Synthetic Training Environment (STE) modular open systems architecture to deliver an immersive SVT capability that empowers Soldier-led training at the Point of Need.

The SVT combines and integrates several individual Soldier training capabilities: Weapon Skills Development, Joint Fires Training, and Use of Force. Each SVT capability is integrated and delivered through the SVT Core, which provides common hardware and biometrics powered by the STE-Information System (STE-IS) software.

"Team CESI is proud to build upon our continued trust in delivering STE capability through a deep understanding of our customer's challenges and assembling partnerships that enable those challenges to be overcome and delivered," said Brian Serra, CESI Vice President, Acquisition Initiatives and Engagement. "We take tremendous pride in leading strong teams and passionately believe that one of our greatest strengths is emboldening our partners to collaboratively deliver systems that create the best training for our Soldiers."

Team CESI comprises industry leaders with robust experience delivering to the U.S. Army; InVeris Training Solutions, Overmatch, Dignitas Technologies, and Fidelity Technologies.

"Team CESI is pleased to be chosen to develop an SVT system that combines advanced mixed reality technology with proven training capabilities to ensure our Soldiers maintain overmatch, continuously improve skill development, and enhance Soldier Lethality," said Devin Lyders, CESI Senior Vice President, Advanced Training Systems. "Our collective capabilities, resources, and resident experience provides the Government with an innovative approach to technology migration and a cohesive STE-centered solution that leverages resources to accelerate development and feedback of SVT prototypes."

About CESI:

Cole Engineering Services (CESI), a By Light Company, is a premier integrator and provider of modeling and simulation and cyber training solutions. Since 2004, CESI has been at the forefront of developing, maintaining, and integrating simulation-based training, serious gaming, technical services, training, and other support in live, virtual, constructive, and gaming (LVCG) domains. CESI designs, builds, and runs infrastructure, platforms, applications, and processes that enable converged training for the integrated multi-domain force. As a full spectrum LVCG developer, integrator, and services provider, we deliver open-source solutions that empower our warriors. Learn more at https://coleengineering.com/.

About By Light:

By Light Professional IT Services LLC, headquartered in McLean, VA, is an ISO 9001, 20000-1, and 27001 registered and CMMI-Dev Level 3 rated systems integrator that provides secure, turnkey systems by incorporating exceptional engineering, project management, telecommunications, and cyber capabilities to safeguard mission success. Founded by industry professionals with extensive knowledge in the DoD, DISA, and other U.S. Government agencies, By Light successfully implements technical solutions that integrate commercial best practices to meet the needs of government. For more information, visit https://bylight.com/.

Cole Engineering Services (CESI), a By Light Company, has been awarded an Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) to prototype the United States Army's Soldier Virtual Trainer (SVT). This prototype project award will extend upon the U.S. Army's Synthetic Training Environment (STE) modular open systems architecture to deliver an immersive SVT capability that empowers Soldier-led training at the Point of Need.

Related link: https://www.bylight.com/

City of Pompano Beach and its CRA Issue Invitation to Negotiate to Master Developers Globally

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The City of Pompano Beach (City) and the Pompano Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) have issued an Invitation to Negotiate (ITN) for a Master Developer to help the City and CRA create a new Downtown and realize the vision of an exciting destination for businesses, residents, tourists, and other investment stakeholders.

In preparation for this ITN, the CRA hired globally acclaimed real estate firm CBRE as the exclusive agent to broadly market the opportunity and analyze responses for a Master Real Estate Developer for the +/-75.38-acres of publicly-owned land assemblages along the I-95 corridor. The City and CRA hope to secure a development partner by September 2022 and begin implementation of the new Downtown in 2023.

Responses are due on August 31, 2022 by 2 p.m. ET; details at https://pompanobeachfl.ionwave.net/

"Pompano Beach has become a red-hot real estate market for quality developers looking for sites for new projects. The investment the City and CRA has made in the public realm is attracting good growth partners and shining a light on this gem of a city in South Florida," said Nguyen Tran, CRA Director.

Located in Broward County between Palm Beach and Miami Dade Counties, Pompano Beach is looking to capture the influx of new development interest flocking to the State of Florida. With land assemblies ranging in size from +/- .2 - 8.35 acres, the large amount of acreage is a unique opportunity to build on the foundation the City and CRA have laid for development of the new Downtown. A commuter rail stop is planned in the middle of the Downtown area and will connect the four intersections of Downtown where redevelopment is already occurring. Two new luxury apartment projects, restaurants and cultural buildings were all drawn to the area based on aggressive public investment by the City and its CRA. The public investments included a new $50 million beachfront, garage and pier, a $180 million bond for citywide public improvements, land use and zoning upgrades, infrastructure and streetscape improvements, and entitlements and availability of land for residential, hotel and commercial development.

"In Pompano Beach, we have a historic opportunity to create a thriving downtown from the ground up," said Nguyen Tran, CRA Director. "There are very few cities nationwide with the ability to develop a new vision and trajectory for their city. With this project, Pompano Beach will be creating an economic driver for decades to come, one that will brand our city as a hub for technology, arts & culture, shopping, and nightlife."

Downtown Pompano Beach includes four quadrants: The Old Town District, also known as Old Pompano; The Civic Commons District, which includes City Hall, the library, and Cultural Center; the Innovation District, with MLK Boulevard as the "main street" between Dixie Highway and I-95; and a residential area.

About the Pompano Beach CRA:

The CRA was created in 1989. It has two independent districts: Northwest CRA and East CRA established by City government for the purpose of carrying out redevelopment activities that include reducing or eliminating blight, improving the economic health of an area, and encouraging public and private investments in a CRA district.

The CRA is funded through Tax Increment Financing (TIF). The funds are collected as property values increase and a portion of that increase is captured by the Agency. TIF raises revenue for redevelopment efforts without raising taxes. For more information https://www.pompanobeachfl.gov/government/cra

The City of Pompano Beach (City) and the Pompano Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) have issued an Invitation to Negotiate (ITN) for a Master Developer to help the City and CRA create a new Downtown and realize the vision of an exciting destination for businesses, residents, tourists, and other investment stakeholders.

Helen Butler, GCPA Executive Director, Statement On Election Integrity In Georgia Primary

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Helen Butler, executive director of the Georgia Coalition for the People's Agenda (GCPA), issued the following statement about election integrity during the Georgia Primary on May 24, 2022:

"We are still assessing the impact of the numerous problems Georgia voters reported across the state, and will provide a formal briefing in the near future. Today, based on reports from coordinators and coalition members across the state, we can say that several locations opened late, machines were broken, and we had reports of voters receiving error messages. A few precincts, including Savannah High, reported that machines were not operating for the first few hours and they didn't provide provisional ballots until after 9 a.m.

"We received several complaints about voters who got the incorrect voting precinct on MVP. Once voters found out they received erroneous precinct information, rather than have a system to accommodate those voters, some voters were sent to another wrong polling place. The mix-up appears to be related to an inadequate amount of time to provide voters with correct precinct information between the acceptance of redistricting maps and the date of the primaries. Elections officials anticipated this problem and requested to change the date of the primaries, however, the Georgia legislature decided not to reschedule.

"Details matter. To protect the integrity of the election we must give election officials and staff enough time to disseminate correct information. The only way for every eligible voter to cast a ballot that counts is for them to receive accurate information from their board of elections. Voters have jobs, families and other responsibilities and should not have to travel from precinct to precinct in search of a place to vote. Instead of focusing on ways to make voting harder, our legislature and elected officials should make voting easier and ensure that we have fail-safe backup systems for people who are provided inaccurate information by the board of elections.

"Another issue we encountered was people who changed their names on their drivers license but the name wasn't automatically updated in the system. One person that had this issue went home to get their passport but with the strict ID requirements, some voters don't have an alternate acceptable form of ID and others don't have time or transportation to go home for more ID. We must make sure that the automatic voter registration system is automatic.

"Clearly, as we progress to the General Election, Georgia officials need to spend less time thinking of ways to restrict voting and more time focused on protecting the integrity of our elections by providing reliable information to voters, maintaining working voting machines, opening all precincts on time, and improving systems to ensure that democracy works for all voters."

ABOUT THE PEOPLE'S AGENDA:

Georgia Coalition for the People's Agenda is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization performing year-round voter registration, education and mobilization in Black communities throughout Georgia. Led by board chair, Rev. J. A. Milner, and Butler, the organization has headquarters in Atlanta and offices in Athens, Albany, Macon, Augusta, LaGrange and Savannah.

For more information visit http://thepeoplesagenda.org, email coalition@bellsouth.net or call the People's Agenda at (404) 653-1199.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Edrea Davis
PH/Text:818.613.9521
email: edmedia@dogonvillage.com

Helen Butler, executive director of the Georgia Coalition for the People's Agenda (GCPA), issued the following statement about election integrity during the Georgia Primary on May 24, 2022.

Related link: https://www.thepeoplesagenda.org/

We Are G.A.M.E. Alum Haley Jones Graduates from the U.S. Air Force Academy

TORRANCE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- On May 25, 2022, Haley Jones, one of the most distinguished We Are G.A.M.E. (Getting Athletes Mentoring and Education) alumna, graduates from the U.S. Air Force Academy (AFA), concluding her storied collegiate basketball career.

Jones's dreams of playing college basketball fell into place when she (along with her sister, Dakota) met Allen and Joyce Thigpen, the founders of We Are G.A.M.E. The Jones sisters were raised by an amazing single mother. Dakota is also graduating this May, having completed her master's degree in public health from New York University.

When she met the Thigpens, Jones was in 8th grade and the nonprofit was getting off the ground. Allen Thigpen offered to come alongside the sisters as prospective college student-athletes. That connected Jones with other students who had dreams of not just playing basketball in college, but also playing at the highest division-level possible. At the same time, the Thigpens offered access to the academic resources necessary to bring that dream to life.

Throughout high school, Jones played for the West High School Warriors in Torrance, California. During her four-year career there, she led the team to a California Interscholastic Federation Southern Section (CIF-SS) Division I title, was honored as Player of the Year for the Division, and earned the girls' basketball Player of the Year title from The Daily Breeze, a local publication.

Upon graduating high school, Jones enrolled at the Air Force Academy. Donning her jersey with the AFA Falcons was the realization of her dream of playing Division 1 (D1) basketball, something she and We Are G.A.M.E. worked toward throughout her high school education.

Fast forward to Jones's senior year, which news publications called a "dream season" for the Falcons. It started with an opener against the University of Denver. Although they trailed by 13 points at the half, the Falcons bounced back to win 79-62, thanks in part to Jones's four steals and six points.

The Falcons went on to secure a total of 19 wins overall - including 11 in the Conference - during the season, the most in school history since the team went D1 in the mid-90s. They were also invited to their first postseason tournament (the Women's National Invitational Tournament) and secured their first postseason win.

During the second round, the Falcons faced off against UCLA. Jones was the Falcons' leading scorer with 10 points and leading rebounder with 12 rebounds, marking her fifth double-double of the season. Unfortunately, the Falcons would fall to the Bruins, ending Jones's career with the AFA.

She can look back with pride, though, knowing she collected 614 rebounds during her time as a Falcon, the fifth-most of any player in the D1 era. 276 of those came during her senior year, the second-most of any player in a single season.

After graduating, Jones will begin her first duty assignment in Oklahoma. She then plans to tackle the challenge of becoming an Air Force pilot, a notable undertaking as only 7% of Air Force pilots are currently women.

About We Are G.A.M.E.:

We are G.A.M.E., Inc. is made up of a T.E.A.M. (Those Empowering Athletes by Mentoring) of community members strongly committed to empowering student-athletes with the tools and skills needed to successfully tackle the world of college athletics. The T.E.A.M. serves a population of students in need of support, advice, and, most of all, life guidance.

By identifying student-athletes in the ninth grade or earlier, the nonprofit aims to positively influence their lives. The mentors at We Are G.A.M.E. want to see young athletes develop to their fullest athletic potential but ensure that the students also focus on education. The mentors work with students and their parents to create a game plan to pursue academic excellence as well as athletic success.

Learn more at https://www.wearegame.org/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/WeAreGAMEinc

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SAGamePlan

On May 25, 2022, Haley Jones, one of the most distinguished We Are G.A.M.E. (Getting Athletes Mentoring and Education) alumna, graduates from the U.S. Air Force Academy (AFA), concluding her storied collegiate basketball career.

Related link: https://www.wearegame.org/

By Light Awarded $2M Army National Guard Contract

MCLEAN, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Army National Guard awarded a $2M follow-on contract to By Light Professional IT Services LLC (By Light) and its teaming partner Warhorse Training Solutions. Under this contract, By Light will provide 44 additional Recruiting Experiences to attract and educate young men and women about critical Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) while providing recruiters with valuable personnel leads. This contract also provides one year of maintenance and support for the existing 85 Recruiting Experiences fielded across the United States.

The new Recruiting Experiences consist of 44 interactive kiosks offering vocational and vehicle operator experiences. The first group of 22 kiosks features 4-in-1 Virtual Recruiter Touch Screens that allow players to engage in simulated vocational experiences, such as Air Traffic Controller, IT Specialist, Allied Trade Welder, or Combat Medic via intuitive touchscreen displays.

The second group of 4-in-1 Virtual Recruiter Vehicle Operator kiosks consists of 22 hands-on interactive Vehicle Operator Stations that invite players to sit and operate various vehicle controls to engage in four simulated experiences: Firefighter, Motor Transport Operator, Horizontal Construction Engineer, or Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Operator.

The Recruiting Experiences include scoring and leaderboard features that promote a fun and competitive environment, helping to attract and retain groups of potential recruits while allowing the recruiter ample time to engage in one-on-one conversations with individuals. Additionally, the kiosks all have the capability to capture player contact information data that can easily be retrieved by recruiters using an improved and simple lead-generation data retrieval system.

"With U.S. Army and National Guard's average cost of $110 per lead, the ROI for these experiences is realized very quickly," says Cory McAndrew, General Manager for By Light's Port Orange, FL, facility. Port Orange houses By Light's modeling and simulation integration center, where technology experts develop training solutions and provide support to industry in the areas of engineering and manufacturing services.

About By Light:

By Light Professional IT Services LLC, headquartered in McLean, VA, is an ISO 9001, 20000-1, and 27001 registered and CMMI-Dev Level 3 rated systems integrator that provides secure, turnkey systems by incorporating exceptional engineering, project management, telecommunications, and cyber capabilities to safeguard mission success. Founded by industry professionals with extensive knowledge in the DoD, DISA, and other U.S. Government agencies, By Light successfully implements technical solutions that integrate commercial best practices to meet the needs of government. For more information, visit https://bylight.com/.

The Army National Guard awarded a $2M follow-on contract to By Light Professional IT Services LLC (By Light) and its teaming partner Warhorse Training Solutions. Under this contract, By Light will provide 44 additional Recruiting Experiences to attract and educate young men and women about critical Military Occupational Specialties (MOS).

Related link: https://www.bylight.com/

RMA Hired by City of St. Cloud for CRA Professional Consulting Services

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The award-winning economic development firm, RMA (rma.us.com) is proud to announce they have been hired by the City of St. Cloud, Florida for professional consulting services to help execute the CRA 5-Year Strategic Implementation and Financing Plan. Drafted by RMA and approved in February 2022, this plan provides a structured and proactive approach to guide redevelopment in the 706-acre CRA district, with the goal of attracting private investment.

"We are very proud to work with the City of St. Cloud," said Adriane Esteban, Senior Project Manager. "RMA developed a comprehensive and transparent plan that will support smart growth, while maintaining the character of this charming Osceola County community."

The goal of the plan is to increase the tax base by implementing projects that will offer the most positive impact. By defining the investment plan, the CRA is better positioned to market and promote the area, leading to business attraction and redevelopment. The Financing Plan provides the associated funding sources while creating a transparent financial document that clearly demonstrates the investments the CRA intends to make year after year.

Several key projects RMA will be focused on include the development of a new parking garage in the downtown, the creation of civic commons with an enhanced social environment, and CRA land asset analysis, along with the potential for further land acquisitions.

"We are delighted to be working with RMA as we implement the plan that will guide the growth and development of our City," said Bill Sturgeon, St. Cloud City Manager. "We are excited about both the near and long-term vision for St. Cloud, and we will continue to actively work with our stakeholders as we create a vibrant future for our residents and business owners."

About RMA:

Founded in 2009 by Kim Briesemeister and Chris Brown, RMA is comprised of a phenomenal team of leading experts in economic development, real estate for governments, marketing, urban design, and financial analysis. RMA, headquartered in Pompano Beach, Florida is a highly experienced, full-service economic redevelopment consulting and management firm, specializing in revitalizing core areas and corridors for cities, counties, and special districts nationwide. The co-founders are also the authors of one of the definitive books about city redevelopment, Reinventing Your City: 8 Steps to Turn Your City Around.

Learn more: https://rma.us.com/

The award-winning economic development firm, RMA (rma.us.com) is proud to announce they have been hired by the City of St. Cloud, Florida for professional consulting services to help execute the CRA 5-Year Strategic Implementation and Financing Plan. Drafted by RMA and approved in February 2022, this plan provides a structured and proactive approach to guide redevelopment in the 706-acre CRA district, with the goal of attracting private investment.

Related link: https://rma.us.com/

WaveLink, Inc. Awarded $46B EWAAC Contract for Analytics to benefit the Air Force and Eglin AFB

VALPARAISO, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- WaveLink, Inc., a woman-owned small business based in Huntsville, Alabama, has been awarded a $46 billion contract from the U.S. Air Force. Specializing in Aviation and Missile Defense programs, WaveLink, Inc. will perform work related to digital and model-based systems engineering, agile processes, open systems architecture, weapons, and enterprise analytics to benefit the Air Force and Eglin AFB.

The indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) Eglin Wide Agile Acquisition (EWAAC) contract enables the government to provide rapid response applicable to all areas and lifecycle phases of weapons development to include weapons concepts, concept development, concept demonstrations, weapons system procurement, production, fielding, operations, and sustainment.

"WaveLink, Inc. has a proven track record supporting Major Defense Acquisition Programs," states Tamela Gibbs, President and CEO of WaveLink, Inc. "We are thrilled to be a part of helping the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center at Eglin AFB quickly meet current and future weapons system requirements."

Using their strong record of corporate leadership experience and achievement, WaveLink, Inc. will be supporting this contract over a 10-year period.

About WaveLink, Inc.

WaveLink, Inc. is a woman-owned small business in Huntsville, Alabama, providing mission-critical Engineering & Technical Services to Air Force, Army, MDA, DOD and other government customers across the nation. For over 20 years, WaveLink, Inc. has delivered dependable, quality technology solutions and support with professionalism and integrity.

More information can be found at https://www.wavelinkinc.com/.

RELATED LINKS:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamela-gibbs-1257978/

WaveLink, Inc., a woman-owned small business based in Huntsville, Alabama, has been awarded a $46 billion contract from the U.S. Air Force. Specializing in Aviation and Missile Defense programs, WaveLink, Inc. will perform work related to digital and model-based systems engineering, agile processes, open systems architecture, weapons, and enterprise analytics to benefit the Air Force and Eglin AFB.

Related link: https://www.wavelinkinc.com/

Celebration of Resolution Paves Way for Cheyenne, Wyoming to Become the Climate Wellness Capital

CHEYENNE, Wyo. /ScoopCloud/ -- Mayor Patrick Collins, members of the Cheyenne City Council, Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce, Encore Green Environmental and Wyoming's Carbon Asset Network (CAN) have jointly announced a celebration of commitment to work on "Climate Wellness through Soil Health" Friday, April 22, 2022 at the Cheyenne Botanical Gardens, 3 p.m.

A resolution will highlight the agreement that Encore Green Environmental signed on December 28, 2021. The desire is that the Resolution will be impactful in stewardship of our environment by the very people who work the land.

Speeches by members of the Cheyenne community will be part of the program, including the proclamation by Mayor Patrick Collins, comments by Dale Steenbergen of the Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce, and John Robitaille of CAN. Letters of support sent to the city council include the Wyoming Stock Growers Association.

"Wyoming has been a leader in everything from the first female governor to water innovation with Buffalo Bill Cody. We, again, are leading the way with Cheyenne to become the Climate Wellness Capital," said Mayor Collins. "There's no better place than Cheyenne where sprawling land and experienced land managers now team with blockchain to render our environment cleaner and safer."

Moving forward the City will work with CAN to develop the program with any additional agreements, MOU's, or contracts developed between the City and CAN to be submitted for approval by the Governing Body.

CAN's program supplies land managers with grants and the tools to help increase their soil's health. Increasing soil health increases the ability of the soil to capture additional soil organic carbon. Increasing soil organic carbon leads to cleaner air, as the carbon is displaced from the air to the soil through increased plant growth and photosynthesis. The end result is that empowering better soil health leads to a better environment for our children and grandchildren.

"We are thrilled to partner with the City of Cheyenne and appreciate their forward thinking to solve problems in cooperation with nature's way to clean our air," said John Robitaille of Encore Green Environmental and CAN. "The Mayor and the Council's vision blends nicely with CAN's mission of Climate Wellness through Soil Health."

Carbon Asset Network (CAN) is a Wyoming company that networks together land stewards - from ranches to farms to golf courses - who commit to a 12-month customized plan with CAN's agronomist to change practices to become more regenerative. These land managers are provided grants from the nonprofit Synergy for Ecological Solutions to purchase new equipment or implement more expensive but sustainable practices designed to help improve the health of the soil and increase soil organic carbon.

CAN uses blockchain technology to verify the soil samples are sent to a certified laboratory, which reports the results directly to the blockchain, which creates a transparent process where all actions and partners are accountable. CAN is expanding these blockchain operations to create NFT Soil Tokens.

An additional announcement will be made regarding a successful partnership developed with a school district in Iraan, Texas, which allows students hands on education in soil stewardship, photosynthesis and produced water reclamation for grades 3-12.

For more information visit: http://www.carbonassetnetwork.com/ and https://synergyforecologicalsolutions.org/ .

Mayor Patrick Collins, members of the Cheyenne City Council, Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce, Encore Green Environmental and Wyoming's Carbon Asset Network (CAN) have jointly announced a celebration of commitment to work on "Climate Wellness through Soil Health" Friday, April 22, 2022 at the Cheyenne Botanical Gardens, 3 p.m.

Related link: https://www.encoregreenenvironmental.com/

Pompano Beach CRA announces RFP: Seeks Restaurant Operator for New Florida Destination

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Pompano Beach CRA has announced a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a Master Operator to renovate the historic McNab House and garage, construct a new kitchen, improve the surrounding area for outdoor dining, and design the dining program. The nationwide search invites commercial real estate professionals, with their restaurateur partners, and professional restaurant operators to submit proposals.

The solicitation documents can be downloaded for free from the eBid System as a PDF at: https://pompanobeachfl.ionwave.net. The proposal deadline is June 9, 2022 by 2 p.m.

"We are creating a world-class botanical garden which will attract visitors who support the restaurants with traditional dining, in addition to a variety of special events including weddings and educational tours," said Nguyen Tran, CRA Director. "This is a tremendous opportunity for the right operator to work with us in developing a key element of this forthcoming Florida destination."

The McNab House is an iconic 1926 structure that was moved and restored to become the centerpiece of the botanical garden. The CRA will consider proposers that respond to the initial phase ("Phase 1") of the project: the McNab House and garage operations, which include the outdoor patio dining, kitchen annex building, and loading area. Proposers are encouraged to define their vision for all aspects of the project including "Phase 2", which includes the tea house, event facilities, and other amenities. The CRA has divided the project into phases so operations may begin at the restaurant while the remainder of the botanical garden is designed, funded, and built.

The CRA's consultants, Bermello Ajamil, and Partners ("B & A"), produced a Conceptual Master Plan for the entire Botanical Gardens; however, specific uses and locations remain flexible pending involvement of the Master Operator.

About the Pompano Beach CRA:

The City of Pompano Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) was created in 1989, with two independent districts. The Northwest CRA and East CRA were established by City government for the purpose of carrying out redevelopment activities that include reducing or eliminating blight, improving the economic health of an area, and encouraging public and private investments in a CRA district. The Pompano Beach CRA is funded through Tax Increment Financing (TIF).

For more information http://www.pompanobeachfl.gov/pages/cra

The Pompano Beach CRA has announced a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a Master Operator to renovate the historic McNab House and garage, construct a new kitchen, improve the surrounding area for outdoor dining, and design the dining program. The nationwide search invites commercial real estate professionals, with their restaurateur partners, and professional restaurant operators to submit proposals.

The New York Young Elite Association hosted a fundraiser for Tom Suozzi

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- The New York Young Elite Association (NYYEA) hosted a fundraiser for New York State Governor candidate and Congressman Tom Suozzi at the Penn Club on March 30th. Over 50 attendees spanning political, business, and academic sectors gathered together and discussed with Suozzi his views and insights on political and social issues.

Suozzi thanked those in attendance and emphasized that he would be improving matters such as public safety, taxes, and education.

"My biggest number one issue is to make people feel safe in New York City," Suozzi said, with immediate and booming applause from the audience.

Suozzi was elected as a congressman of New York's 3rd district in 2016. He was previously the Mayor of Glen Cove, New York, in 1993 and was elected Nassau County Executive in 2001, a position previously held by Republicans for 30 years.

During his tenure as the County Executive of Nassau County -- which is more significant than 11 states and has the 12th largest police department in the country - it had the lowest crime rate of all communities with over 500,000 people. The current New York City Police Commissioner, Keechant Sewell, was a police officer promoted by Suozzi when she was serving in the Nassau County Police Department.

Suozzi also turned down New York City Mayor Eric Adams to become his Deputy Mayor.

"I'm not going to be your Deputy Mayor," Suozzi said. "I'm running for Governor... I can do more to help you from the Governor I can be than as your deputy mayor."

Suozzi also said he is willing to work with everybody, regardless of their political affiliation. He also pointed out that the recently passed infrastructure bill was due to bipartisan efforts, a belief he strongly champions. He also supports tax reduction.

"I will always be a commonsense Democrat," Suozzi said. "I will work with anybody. I will work with Democrats or Republicans, and I will work with progressives, I will work with moderates, I will work with conservatives, I will work with anybody.

"I won't abandon my values, but I will work with anybody to solve problems that surely help people."

NYYEA President John JD Liu said the current downward trend of public safety and hate crimes against the Asian community is a priority of immediate attention. Liu also said he would back Suozzi for his governorship bid, which would also benefit the overall interest of the local Chinese community.

About The New York Young Elite Association (NYYEA):

NYYEA is a nonprofit organization that seeks to assemble and serve as a platform for the young elites across various industries and fields. It aims to facilitate the exchange of ideas, consolidate resources and in turn, heighten the positive impact the group can achieve collectively.

Some of the attendees include NYYEA members John JD Liu, Eva Cai, Chrissy Ding, and Ivy Wu; Suozzi's running mate for Lieutenant Governor Diana Reyna; former New England Patriots Executive Vice President Charles Sullivan; Kayla Rockefeller of the Rockefeller family; Brooklyn community leaders Rosita Pei and Susan Weng; Lina Li and Janet C. Salazar from FSUN; New York Chinese Business Association Honorary Chairman James Liu; James Newman from the Elite Prep Academy; and Faith Group CEO Young Liu.

Website https://www.nyyea.org/

Tel: 516-858-8899

-- Paid for by The New York Young Elite Association --

The New York Young Elite Association (NYYEA) hosted a fundraiser for New York State Governor candidate and Congressman Tom Suozzi at the Penn Club on March 30th. Over 50 attendees spanning political, business, and academic sectors gathered together and discussed with Suozzi his views and insights on political and social issues.

Related link: https://www.nyyea.org/

2022 Concordia Lexington Summit to hear from Governor Beshear, Mayor Gorton, Secretary Raimondo, Coach Mark Stoops, Governor Sununu and The Temptations

LEXINGTON, Ky. /ScoopCloud/ -- Concordia, a leading global convener that hosts the largest and most bi-partisan summit in New York during the United Nations General Assembly, is hosting its first-ever U.S.-focused summit on April 7-8 in Lexington, Kentucky, focusing on the future of technology, trade and environmental sustainability. Taking place in person and digitally, the Summit will hear from Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, New Hampshire Governor Christopher Sununu, Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo, Former Colombian President Álvaro Uribe, Head Football Coach of the University of Kentucky Mark Stoops, Eli Capioluto, President of the University of Kentucky and Rubicon Technologies Chairman & CEO Nate Morris, among others.

More speaker announcements to come shortly. Learn more: https://www.concordia.net/americas/2022-lexington-summit-speakers/.

The 2022 Lexington Summit will also feature an exclusive reception honoring the spirit of the heartland of America, with a special live performance by Detroit natives and Grammy-winning R&B legends, The Temptations, at the Lexington Opera House. During the Summit, Jonathan Martin, New York Times reporter, will be discussing his book This Will not Pass: Trump, Biden and the Battle for America's Future, an account of the 2020 election and the first year of the Biden presidency, co-written with his New York Times colleague Alexander Burns.

Additionally, Frank Luntz, CEO of FIL, Inc, will moderate a session with student leaders from the University of Kentucky to share perspectives on civic engagement, democracy, economic potential and their outlook on the future as the rising group of next generation leaders.

The 2022 Concordia Lexington Summit will convene a variety of voices across the political spectrum and across sectors to advance civil discourse and understanding between the different socioeconomic worlds present in the U.S. The Summit will take place in partnership with the following three academic units of the University of Kentucky: the J. David Rosenberg College of Law, the Gatton College of Business and Economics, and the College of Education. The full agenda can be viewed here: https://www.concordia.net/americas/2022-lexington-summit-agenda/.

"Rubicon is honored to be a part of the 2022 Lexington Summit in our hometown," said Nate Morris, Chairman and CEO of Rubicon, Principal Sponsor for the 2022 Lexington Summit and Chair of the event. "Kentucky offers tremendous benefits to entrepreneurs and business leaders looking to start or grow their companies, and we hope to showcase the Commonwealth to the world and demonstrate how the American heartland can become a leading technology and innovation hub."

Press can register here to attend in person or digitally: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2022-lexington-summit-tickets-242919758537

For in-person press passes, use code OA_Press. For digital passes, use code DA_Press. Press pass holders must show a valid press credential onsite. Concordia's in-person COVID-19 policy can be found here - https://www.concordia.net/americas/2022-lexington-summit-covid19-policy/.

You can take advantage of our Lexington Marriott City Center Hotel room block, which has a number of discounted rooms available from April 4 until April 8, 2022 (with limited availability the night of April 8). Rooms can be booked here. Additional rooms are also available from April 4 until April 9 at 21C Lexington, a boutique hotel located around the corner from the venue. Guests can book here to secure a discounted rate per night: https://book.passkey.com/event/50312140/owner/49548491/home

For any questions, please email rsvp@concordia.net.

For press inquiries, contact Rita Lockheart at rlockheart@concordia.net.

About Concordia:

Concordia is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that builds meaningful partnerships for positive social impact. As equal parts convener, campaigner, and idea incubator, Concordia is actively fostering cross-sector collaboration to create a more prosperous and sustainable future. Concordia was founded in 2011 by Matthew A. Swift and Nicholas M. Logothetis.

Concordia, a leading global convener that hosts the largest and most bi-partisan summit in New York during the United Nations General Assembly, is hosting its first-ever U.S.-focused summit on April 7-8 in Lexington, Kentucky, focusing on the future of technology, trade and environmental sustainability.

Related link: https://www.concordia.net/

Media Alert: Campaign Kick-Off to Re-Elect Sheriff Villanueva

SANTA FE SPRINGS, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The campaign to re-elect Sheriff Alex Villanueva will hold its kick off rally this Saturday, March 26 in Santa Fe Springs. The rally is the first of several planned over the next several months. The Santa Fe Springs office will be the first of several campaign offices throughout LA County.

WHERE: Alex Villanueva Campaign office in Santa Fe Springs, CA. Click, email or call the below media contact information for the exact address. The event will also be broadcast Live on social media.

WHEN: The rally will begin at 10 a.m. running up until noon.

WHO: Sheriff Villanueva will be joined by dozens of local elected officials and over 200 community residents.

Media Contact: Javier Gonzalez, 213-598-8907, javier@alexvillanueva.org

Additional speakers will represent grassroots communities across the political spectrum and our diverse county. Unlike our opponents, media and critics, Sheriff Villanueva will present a true rainbow coalition of campaign staff, endorsements, and supporters. "Unity is not a catch phrase or pick up line for me. Bringing people together is what leaders do," remarked Villaneuva.

A crowd of more than 250 is expected to attend this first campaign event. "We will show the political establishment what a grassroots rally looks like," said Javier Gonzalez, Villanueva's campaign director.

WHY: The primary election is coming up Tuesday June 7th. To date no significant challenger to Sheriff Villanueva has emerged.

Sheriff Villanueva was elected in 2018 on a campaign of "reform, rebuild and restore." Once in office Villanueva established the first of its kind policy to ban deputy "cliques," equipped all deputies with body worn cameras, established a wage theft task force, banned transfers to ICE, and raised standards for internal promotions, new hires, and senior command staff. LASD is now the most diverse senior command and on patrol staff in its history.

The rally comes on a busy week of endorsements of the re-election of Sheriff Villanueva including:

* Rev. Dr. J Edgar Boyd, Senior Pastor, AME Church

* Steve Garvey, 10 Time MLB Allstar & WS Champ

* Heat & Frost insulators & Asbestos workers Local 5

* Gil Carillo, Retired LASD Homicide Detective

* Southern California Pipe Trades District Council 16

* Tania Owen, Retired LASD Detective

* Vilma Cuellar-Stallings, Vice Mayor of Paramount

* Paul Cheng, Mayor Pro Tem of Arcadia

* Grace Hu, Mayor of Cerritos

* Diane Martinez, Paramount School Bd, Former Mayor

* Philip Chen, Assemblymember

* Carmen Trutanich, Former LA City Attorney

MEDIA VISUALS: The Sheriff and key supporters will speak from a rally stage. Media risers will be available as will be plenty of signage and potential first person interviews.

Learn more: https://alexvillanueva.org/

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/XJDpXZKoP6U

- Paid for by VILLANUEVA FOR LOS ANGELES COUNTY SHERIFF 2022, FPPC ID #1397275 -

The campaign to re-elect Sheriff Alex Villanueva will hold its kick off rally this Saturday, March 26 in Santa Fe Springs. The rally is the first of several planned over the next several months. The Santa Fe Springs office will be the first of several campaign offices throughout L.A. County.

Related link: https://alexvillanueva.org/

115 Sponsors Step Up to Engage Communities in Shop Local Campaigns

MENLO PARK, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- In pandemic years 2020 and 2021, more than 100 of Yiftee's almost 400 communities who use its Community eGift Card platform ran dedicated gift card grant or bonus programs to benefit their small businesses, helping them stay afloat. Who were the "hometown heroes" that sponsored these programs during tough times, and continue to do so?

Yiftee surveyed its communities and found some expected and some surprising results when they asked, "What was the source of funding for your community gift card bonus and grant programs?"

1 -- City governments were the first to step up: 26.3%

2 -- Individuals in the community chipped in: 23.7%

3 -- Local banks and other employers contributed: 15.8%

4 -- ARPA and CARES federal programs were used: 13.2%

5 -- Other sources included tourist and hotel tax reserves, Chamber of Commerce/Downtown Association/Main Street budgets, and other county and state funding.

Over the two years, Sponsors contributed $2.7 million for bonus cards, incentivizing additional Community eGift card purchases by town residents of $4.1 million. Grant and employee reward programs added up to an additional $5.4 million. Gift cards and bonus cards can only be spent at local merchants in the Sponsors' communities. These purchases often replaced national brand gift card purchases as Sponsors redirected their budgets to "shop local."

Local financial institutions and employers support their communities

"Both Prudential Financial, Inc. and Audible are strong supporters of the community in which their employees live and work," said Tamara Remedios, Owner of Xplore Communications, who organized the Newark, NJ Community Card program. "When I approached Prudential with the idea of sponsoring a bonus program, they were all in, contributing $25k. They especially appreciated that their contributions incentivized additional purchases by Newark residents of 2.5x more. Plus, the bonus cards get residents into the 100+ shops and restaurants who are participating in the program before they expire - so it's a quick boost to our local economy when our businesses needed it the most. Audible also jumped on board to give $10k to support marketing and special programs for the Newark Gift Card. Both institutions are the benchmark of being true community partners."

Towns multiply their federal grant monies by engaging residents in shopping local

Last month, Yiftee hosted a webinar featuring two live community case studies where CARES and ARPA funds were used as sponsorships. Like Newark NJ, Concord CA hosted 3 bonus program campaigns at the holiday seasons of both 2020 and 2021, and a mid-year summer 2021 program as well. The $40,000 in federal grants were complemented by $80,000 in resident purchases for a total benefit of $120,000 going to 65 local businesses.

Cutler Bay, FL took a different approach with their CARES funding. They distributed $500 Community eGift cards to 300 residents in need, and the cards could only be spent at qualified small businesses in Cutler Bay. They saw 97.3% of the value redeemed within 3 months - a double win for the residents and businesses with the same funding.

The Yiftee survey documented some great advice for other communities considering similar programs, such as "Give them [Sponsors] as many perks as possible! Put their logo on all marketing materials, spotlight them on social media and encourage them to buy gift cards for their employees or raffle them off as prizes throughout the year" and "Have a sign at their [merchants'] cash registers to remind purchasers to use their e-gift card at that establishment."

The Bemidji, MN Chamber of Commerce promotes a locally owned bank, grocery store and telephone cooperative as Sponsors, celebrating their community spirit with logos on the website, and recognition in local press and marketing materials. This way, the community knows and can appreciate that these Sponsors are covering program costs for people who purchase their Community eGift Cards. Their card works at 49 different shops and restaurants in the area, and the program is free for the merchants to participate.

About Yiftee, Keep Local Dollars Local

Yiftee serves almost 400 communities and 13,000 local businesses with simple, secure, PoS-independent eGift Cards that keep local dollars local - more than $27M in pandemic years 2020 and 2021. The company works with Chambers of Commerce, Downtowns, Main Streets, Business Improvement Districts, city governments and other local organizations to create "Community Cards," branded for the community and redeemable at 10s to 100s of local businesses. Organizations and individuals purchase them online and send them via email, text or print to friends, family and co-workers to support their local businesses. There is no cost to the organizers or merchants for the program and it can be set up in just a few days. Yiftee also provides custom-branded cards for individual merchants, franchises, and chains.

More info at https://www.yiftee.com/ and/or email: sales@yiftee.com

Twitter: @Yiftee, Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yiftee/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/9qhm8D2NPaI

In pandemic years 2020 and 2021, more than 100 of Yiftee's almost 400 communities who use its Community eGift Card platform ran dedicated gift card grant or bonus programs to benefit their small businesses, helping them stay afloat. Who were the "hometown heroes" that sponsored these programs during tough times, and continue to do so?

Related link: https://yiftee.com/

Campaign to Re-Elect Sheriff Villanueva Announces First Endorsements and Diverse Veteran Campaign Staff in Advance of June Primary

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The campaign to re-elect Sheriff Alex Villanueva announced via social media its first set of major endorsers today, including Gloria Romero, former State Senator and Majority Leader of the California State Senate.

With the announcement, Sheriff Villanueva stated, "When I decided to run for re-election, I knew that to challenge the political insiders, I would need to create a broad and diverse coalition of supporters. That is why I am thrilled to announce my first wave of endorsers."

Campaign Director Javier Gonzalez added, "The people are with Alex. He's standing with everyday Angelenos to end homelessness and rein in rising crime. The political elites may not like it, but Team Villanueva will be a force in Southern California politics (and beyond) for years to come!"

The first set of endorsers are as follows:

* Gloria Romero, former State Senator, and leading education advocate;

* Steve Cooley, former prosecutor, and L.A. County District Attorney;

* Deon Joseph, veteran L.A. police officer, with 23 years serving downtown and Skid Row;

* The International Union of Electrical Workers, with 775,000 members.

* Ironworkers Local 433

As the campaign heads into the home stretch, it also announced its campaign staff of accomplished veteran staff. Unlike the monolithic teams that control virtually every state and federal candidates, Sheriff Villanueva has built a team that reflects the demographics of Los Angeles with concrete grass roots ties. The team is led by Javier Gonzalez and his firm Tell That Story is responsible for strategy, content and communications. Cristina Rivera is Deputy campaign director, Ben Tulschin is our pollster, Christine Keyegan is our fundraiser, Cine Ivery is our Treasurer, and Jason Lopez is our email marketing director, and more.

Background:

Sheriff Villanueva was elected in 2018 on a campaign of "reform, rebuild and restore." Once in office Villanueva established the first of its kind policy to ban deputy "cliques," equipped all deputies with body worn cameras, established a wage theft task force, banned transfers to ICE, and raised standards for internal promotions, new hires, and senior command staff.

LASD is now the most diverse senior command and on patrol staff in its history.

Learn more: https://alexvillanueva.org/

- Paid for by VILLANUEVA FOR LOS ANGELES COUNTY SHERIFF 2022, FPPC ID #1397275 -

The campaign to re-elect Sheriff Alex Villanueva announced via social media its first set of major endorsers today, including Gloria Romero, former State Senator and Majority Leader of the California State Senate. Sheriff Villanueva was elected in 2018 on a campaign of "reform, rebuild and restore."

Related link: https://alexvillanueva.org/

Scottsdale Mayor Ortega Welcomes Minority Business Accelerator participants during Spring kickoff event

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. /ScoopCloud/ -- With a welcome from Scottsdale Mayor David Ortega and President of the Black Chamber of Commerce Arizona Robin Reed, the Minority Business Accelerator Program, in collaboration with the Millionaire Mastermind Academy, kicked off on March 8, welcoming more than 40 women-owned small businesses, Thinkzilla Consulting Group announced today.

The 2022 program is sponsored by American Landmark; one of the fastest-growing multifamily owner-operators in the United States and Blaylock Van, LLC, the oldest and continuously operating African American-owned banking firm in the United States.

With a focus on minority business growth, the Millionaire Mastermind Academy has already helped more than 7,000 women across the country conquer poverty through entrepreneurship. With a forward-focused mission of developing economic growth initiatives for minority- and women-owned businesses to encourage job creation and business expansion, the organization focuses its work in the Arizona, Florida, and Georgia markets. A $500,000 scholarship fund for the program was launched by Dr. Velma Trayham in February to help small businesses owned by African American women.

"While Arizona continues to grow its commitment to diverse business ownership, institutional barriers to success such as lack of access to capital and access to quality business training are still a reality. That's what we're here to change," said Thinkzilla Consulting Group founder Dr. Velma Trayham. "This unique program invites more voices to the table and more support in developing and realizing entrepreneurial goals."

While Arizona is home to more than 600,000 small businesses, only about 11 percent are helmed by racial minorities, according to the Arizona Small Business Economic Profile.

The 15-week Minority Business Accelerator engages entrepreneurs with a proprietary curriculum, including startup tools, access to a diverse local and national mentor network, funding opportunities to rapidly grow and scale operations, and support in learning how to do business with the government and corporations. The economic goals of the program include supporting the launch of more than 500 new companies while empowering a minimum of 50,000 entrepreneurs.

Program participants represent industries including counseling and mental health, consulting, spa/beauty, IT, restaurants, and education, among others.

2022 Spring Cohort Participating businesses are:

Black HMU, UnitedABowens Drug and Alcohol Counseling, Southern Roots Vegan, Nursing Apparel & ThangZ, Waters Cover Senior Living Community, Simply Celeste's, Shaping Minds Therapeutic Services, Divine Vision Enterprises, Permananet Management MakeUP, Maxim Wellness Centers, New Phoenix, Powerfuel Bites, Her Sisu, Kream's Kreations, Riley-Jones, Walking in Wellness, Ms. Martha's Caribbean Kitchen, Holistic Pathwayz, Nikki L. Sims, Healthier New You, Limitless Scholars, Purpose-Driven Therapeutic Services, Aylee Consulting, Positive Vibes, Foxy Holdings, The Martin Walsh Realty Group, Above the Curve Design Co. and Vuvoi.

The Entrepreneur Accelerator program is offered twice a year, will begin accepting applicants for its upcoming fall program in July. Past alumni's boast acceleration of business growth, click here for past testimonials - https://millionairemastermindacademy.org/success-stories/

About Thinkzilla Consulting Group

Thinkzilla offers DEI Programming that focuses on economic, strategic growth initiatives for minority and women-owned small businesses. Our Award-Winning team helps our clients increase supplier diversity across their supply chains and assist in launching programs to engage communities across the globe. For more information, please visit https://thinkzillaconsulting.com/

About Millionaire Mastermind Academy

Millionaire Mastermind Academy is a 501(c)(3) organization that addresses the barriers to economic mobility for women who have been systemically and historically underserved and excluded. The mission is to educate and support the growth of women-owned businesses, thereby strengthening their impact on the economy and mitigating the problems presented by poverty.

RELATED LINKS:
https://thinkzillaconsulting.com/minoritybusiness/

https://millionairemastermindacademy.org/

https://cdn.advocacy.sba.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/30141144/Small-Business-Economic-Profile-AZ.pdf

With a welcome from Scottsdale Mayor David Ortega and President of the Black Chamber of Commerce Arizona Robin Reed, the Minority Business Accelerator Program, in collaboration with the Millionaire Mastermind Academy, kicked off on March 8, welcoming more than 40 women-owned small businesses, Thinkzilla Consulting Group announced today.

Related link: https://thinkzillaconsulting.com/

2022 Americas Summit will take place in Miami in July 2022 in partnership with the General Secretariat of the Organization of American States (GS/OAS)

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Concordia has announced that it will hold its 2022 Americas Summit in Miami, Florida in July, 2022. The Concordia Americas Summit was originally scheduled to take place alongside the Ninth Summit of the Americas in June in Los Angeles, California.

Concordia, in close consultation with its partner, the General Secretariat of the Organization of American States (GS/OAS), made this shift in timing to complement and support their critical agenda and resulting work of the Summit of the Americas. Concordia looks forward to hosting this important follow-on event, continuing to contribute to the conversation and creating impactful partnerships.

The Concordia Americas initiative began in 2016, with its inaugural Summit in Miami, Florida, and subsequent convenings in Bogotá, Colombia, gathering leaders from the public, nonprofit and private sectors. The region's critical position on the global stage, and the interconnected nature of its challenges with the success of the Western Hemisphere, aligns with Concordia's ethos to create an inclusive, collaborative global community.

"We are thrilled to continue strengthening our partnership between the General Secretariat of the OAS (GS/OAS) and Concordia. The 2022 Concordia Americas Summit represents a unique opportunity to connect key stakeholders and envision new public-private social impact initiatives to benefit the people of our Hemisphere. It is times like these that require that institutions work together to uphold principles of democracy, human rights, security and development," said Luis Almagro, Secretary General, OAS.

"Since 2016, the Americas have been a focal point for Concordia with the establishment of the Concordia Americas Initiative. The 2022 Americas Summit will gather a powerful roster of speakers, including world renowned political leaders, business innovators, global non-governmental representatives, and impressive young minds to tackle some of the toughest issues facing the Western Hemisphere. The GS/OAS has been a key ally for Concordia in the region and we're thrilled to support their agenda in the Summit of the Americas," said Matthew Swift, Co-founder & CEO, Concordia.

For press enquiries, contact Rita Lockheart at rlockheart@concordia.net.

About Concordia:

Concordia is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that builds meaningful partnerships for positive social impact. As an equal parts convener, campaigner, and idea incubator, Concordia is actively fostering cross-sector collaboration to create a more prosperous and sustainable future. Concordia was founded in 2011 by Matthew A. Swift and Nicholas M. Logothetis.

Learn more at: https://www.concordia.net/

About OAS:

The General Secretariat of the Organization of American States (GS/OAS) is the central and permanent organ of the Organization. The OAS is the world's oldest regional organization, dating back to the First International Conference of American States, held in Washington, D.C., from October 1889 to April 1890.

Concordia has announced that it will hold its 2022 Americas Summit in Miami, Florida in July, 2022. The Concordia Americas Summit was originally scheduled to take place alongside the Ninth Summit of the Americas in June in Los Angeles, California.

Related link: https://www.concordia.net/

Lincoln County Voters Triumph as Board of Elections Scraps Plans to Close 7 Polling Locations

LINCOLNTON, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- After several attempts by the Lincoln County Board of Elections to reduce the number of polling places in Lincoln County Georgia, the Georgia Coalition for the People's Agenda and other voting rights groups were elated that the voice of the voters was heard and their efforts to stop the board from closing seven locations to create one was successful.

Rev. Denise Freeman, a local civil and human rights activist who led the efforts to collect signatures from voters on two separate petitions said, "Ï would love to be able to celebrate the hard work of Lincoln County voters to stop the board from consolidating seven polling locations into one but I can't. There's still work to do to make sure that every eligible voter in Lincoln County is able to cast a ballot that counts in the upcoming Midterm Elections."

The Lincoln County Board of Elections voted 3-0 against closing polling places on Wednesday.

Helen Butler, executive director of the Georgia Coalition for the People's Agenda said, "The voters made sure their voices were heard. They knocked on doors and collected the required signatures for the petition to stop the plan to reduce the polling places to one. Needless to say, the board pivoted and announced an alternative plan to reduce the locations to three, nullifying the petition."

Talking to a group of about 300 women attending the Black Women's Roundtable National Summit in Washington, DC Butler continues, "They were playing games with the peoples' right to vote. But, in less than a week we were able to assist the Lincoln County voters in collecting signatures to stop the second plan, and we were ready to go a third time but the board decided to keep seven polling locations. This is indicative of power voters have by being engaged in the process. The people spoke and elected officials had to listen."

The petition presented with the requisite names in December reads, "We, the undersigned Lincoln County registered voters do hereby object to a proposal by the Lincoln County Board of Elections to close our current polling locations and to create a single polling location for all Lincoln County voters."

The petition drive was coordinated by the Georgia Coalition for the People's Agenda, Common Cause Georgia, Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights, Black Voters Matter, Southern Poverty Law Center and Georgia Association of Latino Elected Officials. Local activists and community members helping to coordinate are: Rev. Denise Freeman, civil/human rights activist, Bishop Willie Jackson, Christ Centered Outreach Ministry, and Rev. Christopher Johnson, Augusta Interfaith Coalition.

ABOUT THE PEOPLE'S AGENDA

Georgia Coalition for the People's Agenda is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization performing year-round voter registration, education and mobilization in Black communities throughout Georgia. Led by board chair, Rev. J. A. Milner, and Butler, the organization has headquarters in Atlanta and offices in Athens, Albany, Macon, Augusta, LaGrange and Savannah.

For more information visit http://thepeoplesagenda.org, email coalition@bellsouth.net or call the People's Agenda at (404) 653-1199.

After several attempts by the Lincoln County Board of Elections to reduce the number of polling places in Lincoln County Georgia, the Georgia Coalition for the People's Agenda and other voting rights groups were elated that the voice of the voters was heard and their efforts to stop the board from closing seven locations to create one was successful.

Related link: https://www.thepeoplesagenda.org/

A Ballot Initiative in Nevada Aimed at Closing the Great American Divide

CARSON CITY, Nev. /ScoopCloud/ -- What if we could resolve America's bitter division with one simple fix, without anybody having to change their mind on the issues, or switch parties? Ready for pigs to sprout wings? The folks at Common Sense for Uniting America (CSUA) believe that the division in America is a direct result of our voting method, and they just filed a ballot initiative in Carson City to prove it.

"WHO Americans vote for is far less important than HOW they vote," said Founder of CSUA and retired Naval Commander and gaming systems specialist Ted Getschman. "When it comes to solving the gridlock in America, we've been looking in the wrong direction. You can't blame the American people, or even the politicians. It's not Mitch McConnell or Nancy Pelosi or even dark money. It's just collateral damage. It's the unintended byproduct of an antiquated voting system."

Commander Getschman calls his new voting system MaxVoting, and it works a lot like the star rating system for products on Amazon. "When Americans go to the ballot box, we ask them who do you want to win? Red or blue? Right or left? That's the wrong question," Getschman says. "And it leaves almost half the country frustrated and suspicious of the results."

In MaxVoting, voters are asked to express their opinion in a star rating that reflects on how much each candidate agrees with their stand on the issues. The candidate with the most stars at the end wins the election, because they will have agreed with most people the most. MaxVoting measures voter opinion on all of the candidates, rather than just voting once in a choice of two.

Common Sense for Uniting America believes that MaxVoting would make political division obsolete, because it's a system that doesn't begin by dividing the electorate. And candidates are not incentivized to enflame their bases, because majority opinion, the winning position, lies most often in the center.

"Replacing majority rule with majority opinion rule would incentivize candidates to move to the center, in order to align with America's steadying heartbeat, rather than today's volatile extremes," Getschman said. "It would change everything practically overnight."

Common Sense for Uniting America filed a ballot initiative on March 1 to institute MaxVoting in Nevada. It is a part of a larger state-by-state effort to update America's voting process to reflect the demands of the 21st century. They need 150,000 Nevada voters to register on CommonSenseforUnitingAmerica.org to get the initiative on the ballot.

"We could heal political division in America, and nobody would have to change their minds about anything," Getschman added. "In most states, we wouldn't even have to reprint the ballot forms."

Common Sense for Uniting America

https://www.commonsenseforunitingamerica.org/

https://commonsenseforunitingamerica.substack.com

What if we could resolve America's bitter division with one simple fix, without anybody having to change their mind on the issues, or switch parties? Ready for pigs to sprout wings? The folks at Common Sense for Uniting America (CSUA) believe that the division in America is a direct result of our voting method, and they just filed a ballot initiative in Carson City to prove it.

RMA Hired by Wilton Manors for Real Estate / Market Analysis and Branding Strategy

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The award-winning economic development firm, RMA (rma.us.com) is proud to announce they have been hired by the City of Wilton Manors for the WiltonNext project, a real estate / market analysis and branding strategy for the commercial corridors in the city. The purpose of the study is to analyze real estate and market conditions, support market positioning, develop marketing and branding strategy, and engage community stakeholders to enhance economic development along its major commercial corridors.

"RMA is honored to be working with this vibrant and nationally acclaimed city," said Sharon McCormick, Director of Business Attraction and Marketing. "The municipal leaders of Wilton Manors understand the tremendous potential of their community, and RMA is looking forward to crafting the best strategies for maximizing opportunities while maintaining the character of this special 'island city'."

RMA's study will focus on Wilton Manor's five main commercial corridors including Oakland Park Boulevard, Andrews Avenue, Wilton Drive, 26th Street, and Dixie Highway. Key items RMA will be analyzing include community retail needs, optimal retail mix, consumer spending, industry sectors, market positioning and development opportunities. In addition, the firm will create a marketing strategy, brand positioning and messaging for the major corridors and develop a strong, reliable identity for each commercial district, including all supporting materials. Once completed, RMA will develop an action plan with a tentative implementation timeline.

"We are excited to be partnering with the RMA team as we build upon Wilton Manors' vast achievements and usher in the next wave of economic progress in our city," said Leigh Ann Henderson, City Manager.

The City and RMA recently held the official public kick-off meeting, which was attended by over 80 residents, business and property owners. After the presentation, there was an engaging discussion about the future opportunities for the Wilton Manor's commercial corridors.

About RMA:

Founded in 2009 by Kim Briesemeister and Chris Brown, RMA is comprised of a phenomenal team of leading experts in economic development, real estate for governments, marketing, urban design, and financial analysis. RMA, headquartered in Pompano Beach, Florida is a highly experienced, full-service economic redevelopment consulting and management firm, specializing in revitalizing core areas and corridors for cities, counties, and special districts nationwide. The co-founders are also the authors of one of the definitive books about city redevelopment, Reinventing Your City: 8 Steps to Turn Your City Around.

Learn more: https://rma.us.com/

The award-winning economic development firm, RMA (rma.us.com) is proud to announce they have been hired by the City of Wilton Manors for the WiltonNext project, a real estate / market analysis and branding strategy for the commercial corridors in the city.

Related link: https://rma.us.com/

Tim Pool Highlights Craig X a Trump Supporting Anti-Establishment Republican Running for Congress

WHEELING, W.Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- Tuesday the 18th in a YouTube post about the Candidate visiting Pool's Castle. Tim Pool runs a popular podcast, more popular than CNN. He has the power to help promote an unknown Congressional candidate like the one running in his District, Craig Roberts. Recently, Tim has been speaking about helping candidates like Craig in the primaries because Tim said if they did help in the primaries then there will only be Establishment Candidates to support in the General Election.

Trump also agree to support SMART Republicans to specifically get rid of 13 RINOs. Candidate Craig Roberts happened to live in one of those Districts. It is being renamed this year to District 2 in West Virginia because of the State's shrinking population they lost another Congressional Seat. Craig Roberts is now running against two establishment millionaire Republicans, and he is a working-class candidate. He runs an online Judeo-Christian Church called Temple 420 where he recently did a 7-week online Bible study about the Four Horseman of the Apocalypse. He was heavily censored and although very proud of the work it didn't build up a following because of censorship.

Pool is creating an online beef with the candidate. Roberts went their offices, which were listed on Apple maps as, "Tim Pool Cast Castle" to leave his information with Security that was non-existent. After being invited into the house by "Ben" and explaining he was not with James O'Keefe and his group he asked to leave his info and Ben insisted he speak to the guys in the studio. There was a brief encounter with Luke Rudowski where Luke said, "Leave your info with Ben."

"As I was writing down my information, when someone or several people started calling my name multiple times." The candidate claims he knocked on the door and the video shows Ben admitting he waved Craig into the house. "I was never more than 10 feet from the door and always in the presence of Ben. The only time I stepped away from the kitchen counter where I was writing my info for the show's producer was when they called my name."

Tim Pool's and the Candidates stories differ. The candidate claims he stepped away from the kitchen counter to see who was calling his name and the moment he turned around there was giant SRL camera on a gib in his face and was confronted by a guy named Chris making it look as if he had just walked in the house and was wandering around aimlessly without being invited in by Ben. The candidate says, "Ben invited me in, I politely explained myself and Ben gave me a pen and paper to write my info on. They are making their viewers believe I broke in for clickbait, but I am happy for the publicity I was not seeking."

"Most of my donations have been for $4.20" said the Congressional candidate. "I want to serve the country, but it is hard to raise money when you are an unknown person. I thought Tim could help."

The candidate has been using social media to build a following but is continually banned and censored for his unpopular beliefs. He's anti-vaxx mandates and pro-marijuana. "I produced shows for Cali-Plug Studio prior to the plandemic and we had an armed guard with an audience a millionth the size of Pool's. It was my intention to speak to their security and there was none, so Tim's video accusing me of breaking and entering is a lie, clickbait. I was trying to leave my info not be a part of his world."

"When Glenn Beck had me on CNN there was security that I had to pass through," claimed the candidate. "I have known about Luke for years from his films, but this Pool character," the candidate chimed on stating he hadn't heard of Tim until he recently had Joe Rogan and Alex Jones on his show. "I am in films with Joe Rogan and Alex Jones. Joe was at Temple 420 the very first time I preached the Word." The candidate from West Virginia claims to have a lot of weird encounters with celebrities and has written several books. "Joe, Eddie Bravo and producer Kevin Booth all came to hear me preach my first time on Hollywood Blvd. and I absolutely sucked!"

The candidate concluded, "Tim Pool seems to be trying to increase his audience with a clickbait video about me making himself a victim like everyone on the Left. He really is a Lefty from the research I've done. My goal was to raise money at CraigX.com. I need $800 more dollars in tax-deductible donations to qualify for the primary. I appreciate everyone's love and support for my candidacy. Thank you very much and God bless America."

Learn more at Craig X 4 Congress at: https://craigx4congress.com/

PRESS RELEASE --- PAID FOR BY FRIENDS OF CRAIGX4CONGRESS

Tuesday the 18th in a YouTube post about the Candidate visiting Pool's Castle. Tim Pool runs a popular podcast, more popular than CNN. He has the power to help promote an unknown Congressional candidate like the one running in his District, Craig Roberts.

Related link: https://craigx4congress.com/

PRESS CONFERENCE WED. JAN. 19, 2022: Coalition of Voting Rights Activists Will Deliver Petition to Stop Lincoln County from Eliminating All But One Polling Place

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- As the U.S. Senate continues to discuss voting rights amid national efforts to disenfranchise voters, the new Lincoln County Board of Elections will vote Wed. Jan. 19, 2022 on whether to close all polling places except one. A coalition of voting rights activists will present a petition to the board at 3:30 p.m. Jan. 19, and a press conference will follow at 4 p.m. The petition drive was coordinated by the Georgia Coalition for the People's Agenda (The Peoples Agenda), Common Cause Georgia, Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights, and Black Voters Matter.

Local activists and community members helping to coordinate are: Rev. Denise Freeman, civil/human rights activist, Bishop Willie Jackson, Christ Centered Outreach Ministry, and Rev. Christopher Johnson, Augusta Interfaith Coalition.

WHO: Press Conference Speakers:

Helen Butler, executive director, The Peoples Agenda

Rev. Denise Freeman, civil/human rights activist, Lincoln County

Bishop Willie Jackson, Christ Centered Outreach Ministry

Rev. Christopher Johnson, Augusta Interfaith Coalition

Fenika Miller, Sr. state organizing manager, Black Voters Matter Fund

Aunna Dennis, executive director, Common Cause Georgia

WHAT: PRESS CONFERENCE on closure of polling places in Lincoln County, Ga.

WHEN: DATE: Wednesday Jan. 19, 2022 -- TIME: 4 p.m.

WHERE: Lincoln County Board of Elections (In front of the building); 160 May Avenue, Lincolnton, GA 30817

HOW: For more information contact Edrea Davis edmedia@dogonvillage.com or 818.613.9521 (text/cell).

ABOUT THE PEOPLE'S AGENDA

Georgia Coalition for the People's Agenda is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization performing year-round voter registration, education and mobilization in Black communities throughout Georgia. Led by board chair, Rev. J. A. Milner, and Butler, the organization has headquarters in Atlanta and offices in Athens, Albany, Macon, Augusta, LaGrange and Savannah.

For more information visit https://thepeoplesagenda.org/ or email coalition@bellsouth.net or call the People's Agenda at (404) 653-1199.

As the U.S. Senate continues to discuss voting rights amid national efforts to disenfranchise voters, the new Lincoln County Board of Elections will vote Wed. Jan. 19, 2022 on whether to close all polling places except one. A coalition of voting rights activists will present a petition to the board at 3:30 p.m. Jan. 19, and a press conference will follow. The petition drive was coordinated by the Georgia Coalition for the People's Agenda (The Peoples Agenda) among others.

Related link: https://www.thepeoplesagenda.org/

Hitachi Energy in Bland, Virginia, has been reapproved as a Virginia STAR Worksite under the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry’s Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP)

RICHMOND, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- Commissioner C. Ray Davenport announced today that Hitachi Energy in Bland, Virginia has been reapproved as a Virginia STAR Worksite under the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry's Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP), the program's highest level of recognition. The facility was honored with their first Certificate of Recognition issued on March 12, 2011.

"This outstanding achievement in occupational safety and health has come through the dedication and hard work of Hitachi Energy's management and employees", said Commissioner Davenport. "I commend the Hitach Energy facility in Bland, Virginia, for embracing the cooperative spirit of VPP, and congratulate them on their hard earned recertification as a Virginia STAR Worksite."

Hitachi Energy's site in Bland, Virginia is one of 37 current participants in the STAR program of public and private sector worksites to achieve and retain this recognition. This facility manufactures custom designed dry-type transformers for commercial, industrial, utility, and military electrical power systems. 336 employees work at the 120,000 square foot facility that began production in 1973 and a recently completed an expansion project that added 40 jobs to the workforce.

The Virginia VPP recognizes and promotes exceptional safety and health management systems for Virginia's employers in all industries. In VPP, the participant's management, workers, and VOSH establish a cooperative relationship that encourages continuous improvement in worksite safety performance.

Acceptance into Virginia's VPP is confirmation and recognition that an employer has achieved safety and health excellence well above their industry peers. The VOSH VPP administers the Virginia STAR, Virginia Challenge, VADOC Challenge, Virginia BEST, and Virginia BUILT programs.

For more information about this program or the other services we offer, visit our website at https://www.doli.virginia.gov/voluntary-protection-program/

As part of the recognition for achieving STAR status under VPP, the worksite is entitled to fly the VPP "STAR Worksite" flag. VPP includes two levels of participation, Merit and STAR, with STAR being the highest. Similar voluntary protection programs are conducted in other states across the country.

The process for reaching STAR status is extensive to ensure that only the very best programs qualify. Since the inception of Virginia's VPP in 1996, only 72 STAR worksites have been recognized, and only 35 Virginia companies currently retain the STAR/MERIT designation. Toray Plastics (America), Inc. has set a standard of excellence that is second to none.

In Virginia VPP, a cooperative relationship is formed between the VOSH program, the employer, and employees which include the agreement of company leaders to operate exceptional safety and health management systems that meet a rigorous set of occupational safety and health criteria. Employers agree to voluntarily participate in the program and to directly involve employees in all aspects of the company's safety and health management systems. Requirements include an extensive application process, submission of written safety and health policies and procedures, demonstration of successful implementation of those programs through injury and illness rates that are below the national average for the employer's industry, and an intensive weeklong inspection by a team of VPP experts.

Businesses that participate in VPP substantially improve safety and health protection for thousands of Virginia employees through cooperative efforts to reduce injuries, illnesses, and fatal accidents. VPP STAR sites regularly report decreased bottom line costs associated with dramatically reduced injury and illness rates (an average of over 50% below the respective industry average), and improved productivity, and employee morale. Reducing private sector employer costs associated with injuries, illnesses, and fatal accidents enhances a company's

economic viability and competitiveness, and increases available capital for reinvestment, expansion, and new hiring.

DOLI operates six recognition programs. These include:

1. Virginia STAR is a cooperative relationship between the VOSH program, the employer, and the employees that include the agreement of company leaders to operate exceptional safety and health management systems that meet a rigorous set of occupational safety and health criteria. Participating employers agree to voluntarily participate in the program and to directly involve employees in all aspects of the company's safety and health management systems. Requirements include an extensive application process, submission of written safety and health policies and procedures, demonstration of successful implementation of those programs through injury and illness rates that are below the national average for the employer's industry, and an intensive weeklong inspection by a team of VPP experts.

2. Virginia BEST (Building Excellence in Safety, Health and Training) is a strategic partnership between the DOLI and the Associated General Contractors of Virginia (AGCVA) that recognizes AGCVA members who voluntarily implement highly effective safety and health management systems to benefit construction workers and reduce or eliminate injuries, illnesses, and fatalities on construction sites in Virginia.

3. Virginia BUILT is a new strategic partnership between the DOLI and the Associated Builders and Contractors of Virginia (ABCVA) and is designed to encourage and recognize ABC-VA members who voluntarily implement highly effective safety and health management systems to benefit construction workers and reduce or eliminate injuries, illnesses, and fatalities on construction sites in Virginia. The Virginia BUILT program incorporates the ABC STEP program (Safety Training Evaluation Process) as the gateway to participation in Virginia BUILT.

4. Virginia CHALLENGE is a formal three stage recognition program that dramatically improves safety and health at the worksite and prepares the company to apply for Virginia STAR recognition.

5. VOSH-VADOC CHALLENGE is a strategic partnership between the DOLI and the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) to recognize safety and health excellence at correctional facilities around the Commonwealth. Three stages of participation in VADOC Challenge prepare a site to apply for Virginia STAR recognition. Virginia has the only two correctional facilities in the nation to have received VPP STAR status, Augusta and Lunenburg Correctional Centers. Additional information can be obtained by contacting the DOLI office closest to you at www.doli.virginia.gov or contact Milford Stern, VPP Manager, at (540) 562-3580, ext. 123, or Milford.Stern@doli.virginia.gov.

6. The Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP) recognizes businesses of 250 employees or fewer and is administered by the DOLI Consultative Services Division. Contact Tracy Michaud, Consultation Program Manager, at (804) 786-8707 or tracy.michaud@doli.virginia.gov.

DOLI also offers free On-Site Consultation Services to help employers better understand and voluntarily comply with VOSH standards. Priority is given to high hazard workplaces with 250 or fewer employees and all services are offered to employers at no cost. On-Site Consultation Services helps employers identify and correct potential safety and health hazards by conducting walk-through surveys (without citations or penalties), abatement advice, on-site training, and program assistance to develop safety and health programs.

Additional information about On-Site Consultation Services can be obtained by contacting the DOLI office closest to you at https://www.doli.virginia.gov/about/doli-offices-statewide/ or by contacting Tracy Michaud, Consultation Program Manager, at (804) 786-8707, or tracy.michaud@doli.virginia.gov.

The Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) program is financed in part by a grant from the U. S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), under §23(g) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970. The FFY21 Virginia State Plan is funded by a grant of $4,332,400 federal funds, which constitutes 50% of the State Plan budget excluding any state overmatch funds. Zero percent, or $0.00 of the State Plan budget, is financed through nongovernmental sources.

The Virginia On-Site Consultation Cooperative Agreement program is financed in part by a grant from the U. S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), under §21(d) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970. The FFY21 Virginia Consultation program is funded by a grant of $1,189,200 federal funds, which constitutes 90% of the Virginia Consultation program budget excluding any state overmatch funds. Zero percent, or $0.00 of the Virginia Consultation budget, is financed through nongovernmental sources.

Commissioner C. Ray Davenport announced today that Hitachi Energy in Bland, Virginia has been reapproved as a Virginia STAR Worksite under the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry's Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP), the program's highest level of recognition. The facility was honored with their first Certificate of Recognition issued on March 12, 2011.

Related link: https://www.doli.virginia.gov/

Janet D. Foster Announces Campaign for California Assembly in Newly Formed District for the Greater Long Beach Area

LONG BEACH, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Janet D. Foster, elected member of the Los Angeles County Democratic Central Committee representing Assembly District 70, political advocate and healthcare leader, today announced her intention to run for California Assembly representing the newly drawn district in the greater Long Beach area that likely includes Long Beach, Signal Hill, Catalina Island and parts of Carson.

Foster, a resident of Long Beach for the past 18 years, has been involved in local, state and national initiatives

for non-partisan organizations, as well as platform issues for the Democratic Party. As a representative of the Democratic Central Committee, Foster collaborated with multiple housing advocacy groups, including CA YIMBY, to lobby lawmakers on solutions to California's many affordable housing issues. Her professional experience is centered in the healthcare industry, where she has held leadership positions in multi-regional medical groups, hospitals and within national health plans, making her well-versed as a supporter of single-payer healthcare access as a human right.

"The pandemic has exposed many gaps in how our state government responds to local small businesses and entrepreneurs, educators, frontline workers and ordinary citizens in need during times of crisis," Foster said. "I think we can do better, and I plan to be a vocal leader who presents innovative ideas that make economic sense in addressing the many challenges the great state of California is facing."

Beyond healthcare and housing initiatives, Foster plans to lead efforts addressing the economy to ensure job creation, more opportunities for small businesses to thrive, and fair and equitable wages proportionate to the cost of living in the state. She will also lead the way on quality-of-life issues affected by climate change; protecting vulnerable children and adults; public safety and common-sense law enforcement reform; education with real funding equity for public schools; and aiding senior citizens and veterans.

"I am running for the California Assembly because our district is in need of a strong voice that will work in Sacramento to combat housing inflation and contribute real solutions to address the worst homeless crisis our country has ever seen," she said. "Views and perspectives like mine have been missing in public policy, we must have the ability to address our economy at the same time we make decisions on social issues."

In addition to her professional career, Foster has also dabbled in freelance journalism and podcasting. Her self-named podcast, The Janet Foster Show ( https://janetdfoster.com/podcast/ ), provided a platform for her to interview guests covering a diverse list of topics including current events, social issues, and politics.

Foster earned an MBA with an emphasis in Finance and Economics from Saint Mary's College of California and received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from the University of South Florida.

For additional information, please visit: https://janetdfoster.com/.

Follow on Social:

https://twitter.com/JanetDFoster

https://www.facebook.com/JanetFosterShow

https://www.instagram.com/janetdfoster/

MULTIMEDIA:

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/22-0111-s2p-janet-foster-300dpi.jpg

*Caption: Janet D. Foster announced her intention to run for California Assembly.

-- Paid for by Janet Foster for California Assembly 2022 --

Janet D. Foster, elected member of the Los Angeles County Democratic Central Committee representing Assembly District 70, political advocate and healthcare leader, today announced her intention to run for California Assembly representing the newly drawn district in the greater Long Beach area that likely includes Long Beach, Signal Hill, Catalina Island and parts of Carson.

Related link: https://janetdfoster.com/

Sheriff Alex Villanueva Raises over $1.2 Million for Reelection Campaign – $1M on hand

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- LOS ANGELES, Calif., Jan. 7, 2022 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Sheriff Alex Villanueva announced today that his campaign for his reelection has raised over $1.25 million. Sheriff Villanueva has just under $1M on hand and raised over $900k in 2021. Sheriff Villanueva's strong fundraising lead has come from thousands of donors across LA County.

With a strong fundraising lead and strong name recognition Sheriff Villanueva is in a strong position in his bid for reelection. Additionally, the Sheriff's internal campaign polls indicate that to date none of his opponents have attained name recognition while Sheriff Villanueva is just points away from an outright victory in the upcoming June primary.

Sheriff Villanueva is the first Spanish speaking Sheriff to hold the office in one hundred years and first Democratic Sheriff in 138 years. Villanueva was elected in 2018 on a campaign of "reform, rebuild and restore." Once in office he established the first of its kind policy to ban deputy "gangs," equipped all deputies with body worn cameras, established a wage theft task force, banned transfers to ICE, and raised standards for internal promotions, new hires, and senior command staff. As a result, Villanueva's Sheriff Department has the most diverse senior command and on patrol staff in the history of the Department.

In 2021 Sheriff Villanueva's innovative efforts to address homelessness in collaboration with private and government agencies irritated the county's political establishment. The work of the Sheriff's Homeless Outreach Services Team (HOST) interfered with the political elite's cash cow - homeless outreach and services by actually placing homeless in shelters and cleaning public spaces.

Sheriff Villanueva's campaign expects to report even stronger fundraising numbers in 2022. The campaign's own internal polling and the funds raised at this early date suggest the unhappiness of Los Angeles County voters with the Board of Supervisors negligence in grappling with crime and rising homelessness.

The Sheriff's campaign director Javier Gonzalez said, "The public is desperate for solutions to out-of-control homelessness and crime. The three card Monte game of distraction against the Sheriff by the political establishment has failed. We will win in June."

Gonzalez added, "The political elite will regret listening to their woke, well off, privileged staff instead of listening to the concerns of immigrant communities, working class African Americans, middle class homeowners, and small business owners who have borne the brunt of rising crime and out of control homelessness."

In the coming days Sheriff Villanueva will make his first announcement of endorsements and present his full election team.

Learn more: https://alexvillanueva.org/

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/XJDpXZKoP6U

MEDIA CONTACT:

Javier Gonzalez

javier@alexvillanueva.org

- Paid for by VILLANUEVA FOR LOS ANGELES COUNTY SHERIFF 2022, FPPC ID #1397275 -

Sheriff Alex Villanueva announced today that his campaign for his reelection has raised over $1.25 million. Sheriff Villanueva has just under $1M on hand and raised over $900k in 2021. Sheriff Villanueva's strong fundraising lead has come from thousands of donors across LA County.

Related link: https://alexvillanueva.org/

Cole Engineering awarded $957M Cyber Training Contract

ORLANDO, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Cole Engineering Services, Inc. (CESI), a By Light Company, has been awarded the Cyber Training, Readiness, Integration, Delivery and Enterprise Technology (Cyber TRIDENT) $957M Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract. The Cyber TRIDENT contract is utilized by Department of Defense (DoD) organizations and other non-DoD agencies that have related cyber training needs.

The Cyber TRIDENT IDIQ provides the management, integration, maintenance, and evolution for the Persistent Cyber Training Environment (PCTE) platform and provides total system/subsystem acquisition lifecycle support for the PCTE system baseline. The PCTE provides a holistic, on-demand, standardized training platform that enables the end-to-end planning, preparation, execution, and assessment of training events for the Cyber Mission Force and the entire DoD Cyber Workforce.

"Team CESI is honored to be entrusted with providing an Integration Factory and Agile DevSecOps for the PCTE program and with leading the program's transition from its prototype phase into a true enterprise capability that provides training for the entire Joint Cyber Community," said Thomas Fransson, CESI Senior Vice President, Simulation Products and Services. "We have taken great pride in supporting PCTE prototyping activities since 2018 and are excited to further deploy game-changing enterprise capabilities that support the DoD's Joint Cyber Warfighting Architecture ecosystem."

Team CESI's Coalesce Framework provides a holistic Agile DevSecOps capability that enables developing, integrating, testing, deploying, and sustaining the PCTE platform. Team CESI designed the Coalesce Framework to support PCTE's unique multivendor acquisition strategy by providing a holistic development, integration, and operational environment that allows third-party developers to retain their own internal development processes while seamlessly integrating with the overall Integration Factory.

"Cyber is the most dynamic of the warfighting domains, and the DoD's cyber operators demand a training system that will rapidly respond to a changing landscape of threats, tools, and TTPs. Our Coalesce Framework is one core piece of the puzzle to rapidly deliver that capability by pulling from the best that industry has to offer without impeding the pace of development," said Stephen Lopez, Senior Program Manager. "We are immediately postured to expand PCTE's current capability set into a highly scalable enterprise platform that supports the throughput required for cyber training across all of the DoD, our allies, and other government agencies, while being adaptable to the emerging needs of the force. Through Cyber TRIDENT, PCTE will mature and expand to provide force readiness and mission rehearsal that enables the DoD to deliver cyberspace dominance."

About CESI

Cole Engineering Services, Inc. (CESI), a By Light Company, is a premier provider of modeling and simulation (M&S) training solutions. Since 2004, CESI has been at the forefront of developing, maintaining, and integrating simulation-based training, serious gaming, technical services, training, and other support in live, virtual, constructive, and gaming (LVCG) domains. CESI also designs, builds, and runs infrastructure, platforms, applications, and processes that enable cyber training for the integrated multi-domain force. Our vision is to become a worldwide full spectrum LVCG and cyber training/analysis developer, integrator and services provider. Learn more at https://coleengineering.com/

About By Light

By Light Professional IT Services LLC, headquartered in McLean, VA, is an ISO 9001, 20000-1, and 27001 registered and CMMI-Dev Level 3 rated systems integrator that provides secure, turnkey systems by incorporating exceptional engineering, project management, telecommunications, and cyber capabilities to safeguard mission success. Founded by industry professionals with extensive knowledge in the DoD, DISA, and other U.S. Government agencies, By Light successfully implements technical solutions that integrate commercial best practices to meet the needs of government. For more information, visit https://bylight.com/.

Cole Engineering Services, Inc. (CESI), a By Light Company, has been awarded the Cyber Training, Readiness, Integration, Delivery and Enterprise Technology (Cyber TRIDENT) $957M Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract. The Cyber TRIDENT contract is utilized by Department of Defense (DoD) organizations and other non-DoD agencies that have related cyber training needs.

Related link: https://www.bylight.com/

Satan in Congress? This Congressional Candidate Says He’s an American Patriot

PALMDALE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Steve Hill, a former Marine, retired peace officer and self-described, part-time "activist comic" known as "Satan" is running for 27th congressional district to rid the region of political corruption. He explains he chose the "Satan" moniker as a symbol of rebellion against entrenched, overly-comfortable authority. He vows to work to get money out of politics and to ensure church and state never meet.

Hill's top goal is to reform the police and court system for people who are unable to fight for themselves. So, while he jokes about topics such as race, religion and politics, he knows it's really no laughing matter.

His run for congress is also well-timed in wake of a package of sweeping new police reforms that California Gov. Gavin Newsom recently signed.

"If we want the police to truly do their jobs, which is to protect the public, then we must hold those who are not doing that accountable," Hill says. "We must rid the nation of white supremacist nationalist gangs; the country is saturated and it must stop. We need to get to the bottom of the insurrection."

So, who is Hill? After the military, he pursued a career in the aerospace industry, and after seven years, he was ready for a change and had a desire to serve again. He decided to become a correctional officer and worked in two different maximum, security prisons. He was horrified by the conditions and crimes that occurred even within the prison walls, so he took a job as a middle school security supervisor. Little did he know that schools were nearly as dangerous. On multiple occasions, he was threatened by kids and parents too. Today, Hill runs a real estate appraisal business and is focused on this congressional run.

If elected, in addition to concentrating on police reform, Hill plans to foster respect for the constitution, and to advocate for immigration, education reform and voting rights. Hill knows that this is a tall order, but as a dedicated advocate for the powerless, he's up for the challenge.

"I want to shake things up," Hill says. "If I have to tell people that I'm the devil to get them to listen, then I'm okay with that; I'm the devil. I'm also an American patriot."

To emphasize his devotion to the people, and not the establishment, he will only take campaign donations from individuals. No corporate or union dollars will be accepted to fund this "power to the people" campaign.

For more information: https://satan4congress.com/

Satan4Congress Committee Number: C00783902.

-- Paid for by Steve Hill candidate for California's 27th Congressional District --

Watch a YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0gGKxgxVK7M

Steve Hill, a former Marine, retired peace officer and self-described, part-time "activist comic" known as "Satan" is running for 27th congressional district to rid the region of political corruption. He explains he chose the "Satan" moniker as a symbol of rebellion against entrenched, overly-comfortable authority.

Related link: https://satan4congress.com/

Southwest Airlines Adds Service to Denver: Expanded Service at Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport to Begin in June

AMARILLO, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- Amarillo travelers will soon have more options that feature the Mile-High City, Denver, Colorado as Southwest Airlines, in conjunction with Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport, has announced new non-stop service to Denver International Airport (DEN).

The new expanded service to Denver begins June 5, 2022 to the Denver International Airport. On Sundays through Fridays, the Denver flight will depart Amarillo at 1:55 p.m. and arrive in Denver at 2:25 p.m. The return flight will depart Denver at 12:10 p.m. and arrive in Amarillo at 2:25 p.m.

"Every Panhandle resident and Panhandle visitor will appreciate this new Denver flight," said Amarillo Mayor Ginger Nelson. "Southwest Airlines has provided remarkable customer service to Panhandle travelers for years, and Southwest's commitment to our growth is strong. A daily non-stop flight to Denver is fantastic news."

"We are extremely excited for the addition of a nonstop Southwest flight to Denver from Amarillo; it has been a goal of ours for many years," said Jason Harrison, President & CEO, Amarillo Chamber of Commerce. "Denver is such a valuable destination, not only from a business standpoint, but for leisure travel to the northwest as well as a gateway to the west. Southwest Airlines continues to be an irreplaceable partner with our Taking Flight - Amarillo Initiative. We appreciate their continuing dedication in maintaining and expanding flights to and from Amarillo, with their new Denver service."

"Today's announcement of new non-stop service to Denver by Southwest Airlines is a direct result of Southwest's dedication to the Amarillo community and the entire Panhandle, and shows that they have a better understanding of the needs of their customers," said Michael Conner, Director of Aviation at Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport. "Southwest has remained committed to connecting people to what's important in their lives and to growing their decades-long partnership with us here in Amarillo. We want to thank the entire Southwest team for the expanded service. We greatly value our partnership with them."

For more information about the Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport visit: https://www.fly-ama.com/

For more information about the City of Amarillo visit: https://www.amarillo.gov/

For more information contact City of Amarillo Communications Manager Dave Henry at (806) 378-5219 or by email at David.Henry@amarillo.gov.

Amarillo travelers will soon have more options that feature the Mile-High City, Denver, Colorado as Southwest Airlines, in conjunction with Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport, has announced new non-stop service to Denver International Airport (DEN).

Related link: https://www.amarillo.gov/

Journalist Carmen Maria Montiel to Run as Republican for US Congress, District 18

HOUSTON, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- On Monday December 13, 2021, Conservative Activist, Award-Winning Television Journalist, and Realtor Carmen Maria Montiel filed to run for US Congress, Texas District 18, in the March 2022 Republican Primary.

A first generation American, Montiel has deep roots in the Houston area as a TV journalist, business owner, and conservative activist.

Montiel released the following statement:

"As a proud first generation American, I have lived the American dream. Yet, as Ronald Reagan said, 'Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction'. These are not just words to me. In my native country of Venezuela, I saw firsthand how socialism can destroy a country. And now, too many leaders in Washington have gone from flirting with these dangerous ideas to trying to force them into law, which would fundamentally change our country, erode our liberties, and end freedom as we know it.

"For more than a quarter century, career politician Sheila Jackson Lee has worked hard to promote herself and her political career in Congress, while the people she represents in District 18 have been left behind clinging to false hopes and broken promises. Now, Congresswoman Jackson Lee and her leader Nancy Pelosi have given in to the far-left socialist Democrats and their radical agenda. It's time to fight for real opportunity for the people of District 18 by returning to the conservative principles of life, liberty, and opportunity on which our great country was founded, and which have proven time and again to deliver the greatest amount of prosperity to all of those who seek a better life for themselves and their families.

"Throughout my life, I have fought and won. In Congress, I will fight for the values, principles, and policies that support strong families, good jobs, and better opportunities for the people of District 18."

About Carmen Maria Montiel:

Carmen Maria Montiel has worked hard to overcome obstacles and succeed throughout her life. Born in Venezuela, in 1984 she was crowned Miss Venezuela, Miss South America, and Second-Runner-Up for Miss Universe. Montiel subsequently migrated legally to the United States where she obtained her education, raised a family, helped build a family business, and enjoyed a successful career as a television journalist. She currently is employed as a Realtor with Keller Williams Realty in Houston, while continuing her work as a freelance journalist and conservative activist.

In 2018, Carmen Maria Montiel ran as a first-time candidate in the Republican Primary for Texas Congressional District 29. Despite her last-minute filing and limited campaign resources, she mounted a successful conservative grassroots campaign against three politically experienced opponents to advance to a runoff. In the runoff election, she earned a wide array of conservative endorsements and came within 83 votes of winning the Republican nomination, receiving nearly twice the number of votes as her politically established runoff opponent in Election Day voting.

Montiel obtained her B.A. in Broadcasting, Magna Cum Laude, from East Tennessee State University in 1991. Her broadcasting career included many endeavors, including three years as a TV Reporter and Anchorwoman for Telemundo, where she covered and hosted the 1992 GOP Convention in Houston.

Montiel added:

"I have spent my entire life listening to people and giving them a voice. In the country where I was born, career politicians have squandered the people's prosperity and silenced their voices. The only way we can save our great country from the radical ideas of socialism, and preserve liberty and opportunity for the next generation, is to put the voice of the people back in their government. I want to serve as that voice."

Ms. Montiel filed her ballot application on Monday at Harris County Republican Party Headquarters, 8588 Katy Freeway, Suite 445, Houston TX 77024.

Learn more at: https://carmenforcongress.com/

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/LS-cySeUyIY

Instagram: @carmenforcongress

Twitter: @carmen4congress

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CarmenForCongress

* Paid for by Carmen for Congress *

On Monday December 13, 2021, Conservative Activist, Award-Winning Television Journalist, and Realtor Carmen Maria Montiel filed to run for US Congress, Texas District 18, in the March 2022 Republican Primary.

Related link: https://carmenforcongress.com/

Toray Plastics in Front Royal, Virginia Receives Its Fourth ‘Star’ Designation Under The Virginia Department of Labor and Industry’s Voluntary Protection Program

RICHMOND, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- Commissioner C. Ray Davenport announced today that Toray Plastics (America), Inc. in Front Royal, Virginia, has been reapproved as a Virginia STAR Worksite under the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry's Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP), the program's highest level of recognition. The facility was honored with their first Certificate of Recognition issued on January 28, 2005.

"This outstanding achievement in occupational safety and health has come through the dedication and hard work of Toray Plastics management and employees", said Commissioner Davenport. "I commend the Toray Plastics facility in Front Royal, Virginia, for embracing the cooperative spirit of VPP, and congratulate them on their hard earned recertification as a Virginia STAR Worksite."

The Toray Plastics (America), Inc, commitment to providing a safe and healthy workplace for its employees is demonstrated by its very low injury and illness rates. The Front Royal facility has a total three-year average for the TCIR (Total Case Incident Rate for injuries and illnesses) of 0.64 compared with a Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) national rate of 3.0 for this industry, representing a TCIR rate 79% lower than the national average for the industry.

As part of the recognition for achieving STAR status under VPP, the worksite is entitled to fly the VPP "STAR Worksite" flag. VPP includes two levels of participation, Merit and STAR, with STAR being the highest. Similar voluntary protection programs are conducted in other states across the country.

The process for reaching STAR status is extensive to ensure that only the very best programs qualify. Since the inception of Virginia's VPP in 1996, only 72 STAR worksites have been recognized, and only 35 Virginia companies currently retain the STAR/MERIT designation. Toray Plastics (America), Inc. has set a standard of excellence that is second to none.

In Virginia VPP, a cooperative relationship is formed between the VOSH program, the employer, and employees which include the agreement of company leaders to operate exceptional safety and health management systems that meet a rigorous set of occupational safety and health criteria. Employers agree to voluntarily participate in the program and to directly involve employees in all aspects of the company's safety and health management systems. Requirements include an extensive application process, submission of written safety and health policies and procedures, demonstration of successful implementation of those programs through injury and illness rates that are below the national average for the employer's industry, and an intensive weeklong inspection by a team of VPP experts.

Businesses that participate in VPP substantially improve safety and health protection for thousands of Virginia employees through cooperative efforts to reduce injuries, illnesses, and fatal accidents. VPP STAR sites regularly report decreased bottom line costs associated with dramatically reduced injury and illness rates (an average of over 50% below the respective industry average), and improved productivity, and employee morale.

Reducing private sector employer costs associated with injuries, illnesses, and fatal accidents enhances a company's economic viability and competitiveness, and increases available capital for reinvestment, expansion, and new hiring.

DOLI operates six recognition programs. These include:

- Virginia STAR is a cooperative relationship between the VOSH program, the employer, and the employees that include the agreement of company leaders to operate exceptional safety and health management systems that meet a rigorous set of occupational safety and health criteria. Participating employers agree to voluntarily participate in the program and to directly involve employees in all aspects of the company's safety and health management systems. Requirements include an extensive application process, submission of written safety and health policies and procedures, demonstration of successful implementation of those programs through injury and illness rates that are below the national average for the employer's industry, and an intensive weeklong inspection by a team of VPP experts.

- Virginia BEST (Building Excellence in Safety, Health and Training) is a strategic partnership between the DOLI and the Associated General Contractors of Virginia (AGCVA) that recognizes AGCVA members who voluntarily implement highly effective safety and health management systems to benefit construction workers and reduce or eliminate injuries, illnesses, and fatalities on construction sites in Virginia.

- Virginia BUILT is a new strategic partnership between the DOLI and the Associated Builders and Contractors of Virginia (ABCVA) and is designed to encourage and recognize ABC-VA members who voluntarily implement highly effective safety and health management systems to benefit construction workers and reduce or eliminate injuries, illnesses, and fatalities on construction sites in Virginia. The Virginia BUILT program incorporates the ABC STEP program (Safety Training Evaluation Process) as the gateway to participation in Virginia BUILT.

- Virginia CHALLENGE is a formal three stage recognition program that dramatically improves safety and health at the worksite and prepares the company to apply for Virginia STAR recognition.

- VOSH-VADOC CHALLENGE is a strategic partnership between the DOLI and the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) to recognize safety and health excellence at correctional facilities around the Commonwealth. Three stages of participation in VADOC Challenge prepare a site to apply for Virginia STAR recognition. Virginia has the only two correctional facilities in the nation to have received VPP STAR status, Augusta and Lunenburg Correctional Centers. Additional information can be obtained by contacting the DOLI office closest to you at www.doli.virginia.gov or contact Milford Stern, VPP Manager, at (540) 562-3580, ext. 123, or Milford.Stern@doli.virginia.gov.

- The Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP) recognizes businesses of 250 employees or fewer and is administered by the DOLI Consultative Services Division. Contact Tracy Michaud, Consultation Program Manager, at (804) 786-8707 or tracy.michaud@doli.virginia.gov.

DOLI also offers free On-Site Consultation Services to help employers better understand and voluntarily comply with VOSH standards. Priority is given to high hazard workplaces with 250 or fewer employees and all services are offered to employers at no cost. On-Site Consultation Services helps employers identify and correct potential safety and health hazards by conducting walk-through surveys (without citations or penalties), abatement advice, on-site training, and program assistance to develop safety and health programs.

Additional information about On-Site Consultation Services can be obtained by contacting the DOLI office closest to you at https://www.doli.virginia.gov/about/doli-offices-statewide/ or by contacting Tracy Michaud, Consultation Program Manager, at (804) 786-8707, or tracy.michaud@doli.virginia.gov.

The Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) program is financed in part by a grant from the U. S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), under §23(g) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970. The FFY21 Virginia State Plan is funded by a grant of $4,332,400 federal funds, which constitutes 50% of the State Plan budget excluding any state overmatch funds. Zero percent, or $0.00 of the State Plan budget, is financed through nongovernmental sources.

The Virginia On-Site Consultation Cooperative Agreement program is financed in part by a grant from the U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), under §21(d) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970. The FFY21 Virginia Consultation program is funded by a grant of $1,189,200 federal funds, which constitutes 90% of the Virginia Consultation program budget excluding any state overmatch funds. Zero percent, or $0.00 of the Virginia Consultation budget, is financed through nongovernmental sources.

Commissioner C. Ray Davenport announced today that Toray Plastics (America), Inc. in Front Royal, Virginia, has been reapproved as a Virginia STAR Worksite under the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry's Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP), the program's highest level of recognition. The facility was honored with their first Certificate of Recognition issued on January 28, 2005.

Related link: https://www.doli.virginia.gov/

FSO Awarded $31.2M EWOCS Task Order – ACS, By Light JV Supports Operation of World’s Only Combined Space Operations Center (CSpOC)

FAIRFAX, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- Full Spectrum Operations, LLC (FSO), an SBA-approved, Mentor-Protégé Joint Venture (JV) between American Communications Solutions LLC (ACS), and By Light Professional IT Services LLC (By Light), has been awarded a $31.2M task order under the USAF - Eastern Western Operational Communication Services (EWOCS) Single Award IDIQ.

JV FSO will provide operations, maintenance, sustainment, integration, and protection of cyber and IT infrastructure, consisting of multiple networks, numerous C4I systems and client devices, required for the 24/7/365 operation for the world's only Combined Space Operations Center. CSpOC is a synergistic command and control weapon system focused on planning and executing United States Space Command's (USSPACECOM) CFSCC mission. The purpose for the CSpOC is to provide a focal point for the operational employment of worldwide joint space forces, and enable the Commander, Combined Forces Space Component Command (CDR CFSCC) to integrate space power into global military operations.

"As a Veteran Owned Small Business, FSO is honored to have the opportunity to continue to provide support services to the United States Space Force, enabling them to safely launch, track, and recover space lift systems and perform operational test missions in support of ballistic missile deployment and aircraft flight tests," said John M. Schleifer, Managing Member of FSO and President and CEO of ACS.

According to John Kilpatrick, By Light Vice President of Operations, "The CSpOC task order issued on EWOCS builds on our long-standing support to the Eastern and Western Launch Ranges as well as the Missile Defense Agency, and By Light is excited for this opportunity to be a driving force in the Range of the Future transformation."

About Full Spectrum Operations (FSO):

FSO is a CVE-verified, Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) based in Fairfax Station, VA, that provides information technology, cybersecurity, engineering, and operational support services to customers in the Federal Government. FSO is an SBA-approved, Mentor-Protégé JV between ACS (Protégé), and By Light (Mentor), a large business.

About American Communications Solutions (ACS):

ACS, the Managing Partner of FSO, is a CVE-verified SDVOSB currently providing information technology (IT), cybersecurity, engineering, software development, and operational and training support services to customers in the Federal Government.

About By Light Professional IT Services LLC:

By Light, headquartered in McLean, VA, is an ISO 9001, 20000-1, and 27001 registered and CMMI Level 3 rated systems integrator that provides secure, turn-key systems by incorporating exceptional engineering, project management, telecommunications, and cyber capabilities to safeguard mission success. Founded by industry professionals with extensive knowledge in the DoD, DISA, and other US Government Agencies, By Light successfully implements technical solutions that integrate commercial best practices to meet the needs of government. For more information, visit http://www.bylight.com/.

Full Spectrum Operations, LLC (FSO), an SBA-approved, Mentor-Protégé Joint Venture (JV) between American Communications Solutions LLC (ACS), and By Light Professional IT Services LLC (By Light), has been awarded a $31.2M task order under the USAF - Eastern Western Operational Communication Services (EWOCS) Single Award IDIQ.

1st Edge Wins $9.7M Space and Missile Defense Command SBIR Contract to Research and Develop AI Solutions

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. /ScoopCloud/ -- 1st Edge, a leader in designing solutions using Artificial Intelligence and new technologies, was awarded a $9.7M Small Business Innovative Research Phase III contract to Artificial Intelligence solutions for the U.S. Army. This contract, issued by the Space and Missile Defense Command (SMDC), is a continuation of 1st Edge's proprietary Pragmatic Artificial Intelligence and New Technology (PAINT) program, currently impacting multiple army programs.

"Implementing sophisticated, innovative AI solutions for the warfighter and support analysts is a top priority for the Department of Defense and for 1st Edge. We've made excellent advances in phases I and II, but there is lots more to be done," states Nathan Claburn, Vice President of 1st Edge. "This contract will fund improvements in computer vision, defense planning, and target testing."

By using the PAINT approach, users are aided by the science of AI and other new technologies infused into engineering solutions for missile defense. PAINT allows subject matter experts to be more productive, less error prone, and more consistent. In automated software systems, PAINT technology satisfies a broader set of requirements through computer analysis. By processing more data in less time, these automated systems are a vast improvement on current manual approaches.

"PAINT continues to create easier, more consistent defense planning," said Tim McCarter, President of 1st Edge. "This coveted Phase III contract allows us to continue the work of advancing AI for multiple missile defense programs and increasing the success of the modern warfighter."

About 1st Edge LLC

Located in Huntsville, Alabama, 1st Edge is a Small Business Provider to the Department of Defense and works closely with Space and Missile Defense Command (SMDC), Missile Defense Agency (MDA), and Combat Capabilities Development Command (CCDC). Founded in 2011, the company uses agile methodology to craft advanced technologies into software solutions. Core competencies include artificial intelligence, data solutions, software engineering, air and missile defense systems, data visualization and software analysis.

Learn more at: https://www.1st-edge.com/

1st Edge, a leader in designing solutions using Artificial Intelligence and new technologies, was awarded a $9.7M Small Business Innovative Research Phase III contract to Artificial Intelligence solutions for the U.S. Army. This contract, issued by the Space and Missile Defense Command (SMDC), is a continuation of 1st Edge's proprietary Pragmatic Artificial Intelligence and New Technology (PAINT) program, currently impacting multiple army programs.

Related link: https://www.1st-edge.com/

Good and SMART America First Republican Patriot announces primary campaign run for West Virginia’s 1st District against a ‘sellout loser RINO’

WHEELING, W.Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- Pro-Cannabis Republican Candidate for Congress, Craig "X" Roberts (CraigX4Congress.com), The General Pharmer, was sitting on his hotel balcony overlooking the Caribbean Sea when an FBI agent from Wheeling West Virginia called his cell phone. The agent wanted to know about January 6 insurrection and the events that took place at the U.S. Capitol. The first thing the FBI agent said was, "You are not in trouble, and you don't have to talk to me if you don't want." Telling someone they are not in trouble takes the pressure off.

The Candidate spoke about his experiences in Washington D.C. Tucker Carlson's report "The Purge" was similar to what Roberts saw. That was why he was moving to Mexico. "I don't think it is safe or stable to live in a country where two guys are claiming to be President at the same time," he told the FBI agent, because to this day "Trump has not conceded the election claiming fraud as the only reason for Brandon's victory. As the father of young children, I think it is best for my family to move to Mexico."

Roberts commented, "All the once stable institutions of America are now dividing the people against each other. How is that a good idea?" One week ago, President Trump, who Roberts believes won the election, asked American First Republican Patriots to run against 13 "sellout loser RINOs" who voted with the Democrat Party on "a fake infrastructure bill" (only 11% for structural improvements).

Candidate Roberts said regarding January 6, "I went there that day with two girl friends who had never been to D.C. We weren't part of any group." Answering that because the agent asked, "I still think the election was stolen, but I am not going to take up arms against the current regime. I trust the American people to do the right thing and correct the election problem."

West Virginia's 1st District Congressional Candidate Roberts found Wheeling because he saw a sign on Highway 70, "Wheeling Marsh Stogies." After being a reoccurring-regular on the TV show "Weeds," working for Mike Tyson's cannabis company and producing shows for the Cali Plug Studios that included a High Times show staring Jenae Alt, it was hard to imagine moving to the Ohio Valley in West Virginia, but the "stogie sign" was an omen.

"In 2017, when I was an online English teacher with students in China, I started having memorable dreams of working with President Trump. I didn't vote for him, but I love his America First agenda, so I used to fall asleep listening to his speeches." Roberts was certain that this was the cause of his Trump dreams.

"When I heard Trump ask for SMART Republicans to primary these traitorous RINOs I decided to look if one of them was in my District. I want my dream of working with Trump to come true." What are the odds with 435 Congresspeople that Candidate Roberts would have moved to the District of a RINO? Is Mr. Roberts going to Washington?

Tim Robbins predicted the "conservative rebel" in his hit film, "Bob Roberts." Now, Roberts, who has appeared in 15 cannabis films including "Haunted House of Chronic," "How Weed Won the West," "American Drug War" and "Totally Baked" to name a few becoming the living embodiment of the Conservative Rebel. He is pro-gun like Ted Nugent but looks more like Phil Robertson from "Duck Dynasty" than a politician.

"I agree with President Trump. The U.S. was attacked worse than Pearl Harbor or 911. This is Biblical because in my church we teach Fauci is the Rider on the White Horse of Revelation 6:2," Roberts confessed. "I know the press will beat me up for this, but it is what I truly think. Besides torturing dogs, Fauci a false healer wearing a white lab coat as cover for conquering. He conquered the world with two things, the Corona, and a common cloth - a bow (GK tocson) - you can't make this up!"

Roberts taught in Temple 420 that China and the U.S. are in an actual war even though it is undeclared. "This as a Biblical struggle between good and evil, an ideological war that I have been engaged in for a long time." The Candidate calls himself a veteran of the Drug War. "My friend named me the General Pharmer because of my militant stance for hemp. I was an influencer before the Internet and there was such a word. I think I am one of the reasons the Chinese government banned Americans as online English teachers," The Pastor Candidate laughed. "I taught their children to love guns, Jesus and freedom as I taught them English. When elected to Congress I'll absolutely put America First."

Learn more at: https://craigx4congress.com/

PAID FOR BY FRIENDS OF CRAIGX4CONGRESS

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/klJJwZCV_7Y

Pro-Cannabis Republican Candidate for Congress, Craig "X" Roberts, The General Pharmer, was sitting on his hotel balcony overlooking the Caribbean Sea when an FBI agent from Wheeling West Virginia called his cell phone. The agent wanted to know about January 6 insurrection and the events that took place at the U.S. Capitol.

Related link: https://craigx4congress.com/