Category Archives: Government

Cole Engineering Services, Inc., Awarded $500M Simulator Production OTA

ORLANDO, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Cole Engineering Services, Inc. (CESI), a By Light Company, has been awarded the $500M Reconfigurable Virtual Collective Trainer (RVCT) Production Other Transaction Authority (OTA) award. The program originated in June 2019 with initial concept demonstrations, followed by a formal prototyping phase that included soldier evaluation to refine the fidelity and capability of the initial 19 Army ground and air platforms. The rapid fielding production phase of the RVCT program will begin deployment of the reconfigurable platforms at 14 sites over the next three to five years.

The RVCT includes aviation platforms (RVCT-A), ground platforms (RVCT-G), dismounted infantry collective maneuver training, collective gunnery training, and mission rehearsal capability. The RVCT is a mobile, transportable, modular, and scalable training capability with the minimum hardware necessary to represent form, fit, and function for Soldiers to execute collective tasks. RVCT is the first major production effort being fielded out of the Army's Synthetic Training Environment (STE) modernization priority.

"Team CESI continues to take great pride in developing and delivering systems that are easy for our Soldiers to use, and RVCT has been a tremendous example of working collaboratively with our stakeholders," said Devin Lyders, CESI Senior Vice President, Advanced Training Systems. "We place the Soldier at the center of modernization by conducting multiple formal Soldier Touch Points and more than 100 informal feedback sessions with the direct platform experts, enabling us to find the sweet spot of fidelity with virtualization, form/fit/function, and training realism."

Team CESI's RVCT solution is built upon a modular hardware architecture, which allows RVCT to replicate U.S. Army ground and air vehicles through common configuration items. The combination of high-fidelity physical and virtual control interfaces utilizes real-world system hardware and immerses the Soldier via Virtual and Augmented Reality through the Synthetic Training Environment-Information System (STE-IS) software.

"The collective efforts of RVCT stakeholders over the past few years to continue iteratively improving the platforms has been nothing less than a true collaboration success story," said Eric Carr, CESI's Program Director. "Thanks to the combined agile efforts of the Government, our industry partners, and the CESI/By Light team, we are able to deliver next-generation immersive virtual training platforms that replicate platform fidelity while delivering realistic collective unit training and mission rehearsal that simulates the complex challenges of the future operational environment."

Production of the RVCT systems is taking place at By Light's 125,000-square foot manufacturing facility in Port Orange, FL. Team CESI consists of a robust group of subcontractors and suppliers comprised of nearly 150 teammates and partners who will support the fabrication, integration, and deployment of the RVCT systems.

"Our entire Team is honored to be chosen to field this critical mission-training capability for the United States Army," said Bob Donahue, Founder and CEO of By Light, "and we look forward to continuing to support the achievement of the Army's vision for the greater Synthetic Training Environment."

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 $500M Reconfigurable Virtual Collective Trainer (RVCT) Production Other Transaction Authority (OTA) award. The program originated in June 2019 with initial concept demonstrations, followed by a formal prototyping phase that included soldier evaluation to refine the fidelity and capability of the initial 19 Army ground and air platforms.

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

California Cannabis Corridor video, hosted by Vista City Council Member, takes viewers on tour of city’s successful recreational and medical cannabis industry

VISTA, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- A new GuideMe.Tours video premieres April 15 that takes a "behind-the-doors" look at five of Vista, California's successful cannabis dispensaries and the positive impact the new industry is making in the North County town. The California Cannabis Corridor™ is an informative and heartfelt look at how dispensary community is making an impact on peoples' lives.

The film features Vista Council Member Joe Green as the host and tour guide. A trailer for the film is available today at http://CCCTheMovie.com/.

Green was elected in 2016 and championed the citizens' initiative Measure Z which was passed by Vista voters in 2018 to allow legal cannabis dispensaries. Green believes the film is an important step towards dispelling any remaining myths about the safe and legal operation of cannabis dispensaries.

"Each of our 11 dispensaries is helping to revitalize several areas of our community, and are providing safe, reliable access to medical and recreational cannabis in comfortable and friendly environments. The industry has evolved into treating everything from insomnia, PTSD and other mental health conditions to relief from aching joints and gluten intolerance," says Green.

Prior to legalizing cannabis in 2018, the City of Vista spent more than $1 million per year combatting 21 illegal retail dispensaries. "Measure Z has been 100 percent effective in removing the illegal cannabis trade from our city while becoming a tremendous community benefit contrary to sceptics' concerns," adds Green.

The city estimates the dispensaries will generate $9 million in tax revenues in the 2023-24 fiscal year which will support programs for homeless relief, health clinics, community events and new parks.

The film captures Green's passionate personality as he interviews dispensary operators from Off The Charts, Tradecraft Farms, Coastal Cannabis, Wellgreens and Hello Cannabis.

About the production:

California Cannabis Corridor™ is produced in collaboration with A Different Day Radio, Star Fox Media and HPC.Media under the GuideMe.Tours collaborative. GuideMe.Tours produces video and audio podcast tours, including Vista's Pioneer Beer Trail and Visiting Downtown Vista. Learn more at: https://guideme.tours/

A new GuideMe.Tours video premieres April 15 that takes a "behind-the-doors" look at five of Vista, California's successful cannabis dispensaries and the positive impact the new industry is making in the North County town. The California Cannabis Corridor™ is an informative and heartfelt look at how dispensary community is making an impact on peoples' lives.

Related link: https://guideme.tours/

Cheyenne Hunt Announces Candidacy for Congress Representing California’s 45th District

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Cheyenne Hunt, a passionate advocate for social justice and equality, announced today her candidacy for Congress representing California's 45th district. Hunt has built a strong following on social media platforms like TikTok, where she has used her often provocative content to educate and mobilize young people around progressive issues.

"I'm running for Congress because I believe we need leaders who will fight for working families, for our planet, and for justice and equality for all," Hunt said in a statement. "I've seen firsthand how our current representative has failed our community by putting corporate interests ahead of our needs. It's time for a change, and I'm ready to be that change."

Hunt quickly to prominence on Capitol Hill as the youngest law clerk for Senator Amy Klobuchar. During her time working with the Senate Judiciary Committee, Cheyenne was instrumental in drafting and promoting legislation that advanced progressive causes. She was a driving force behind numerous initiatives, including social media policy, civil rights, reproductive justice, and democracy reform.

Hunt's campaign will focus on a number of key issues, including building a stronger and more equitable economy, improving infrastructure, taking bold action on climate change, and reining in big tech companies. She is also committed to advancing racial and social justice, and to fighting for the rights of marginalized communities including women and seniors.

"We need leaders who understand the challenges facing our communities and who are committed to working towards real solutions," Hunt said. "I'm proud to be running a campaign that is powered by the peopl, and puts the needs of our community first."

Hunt's candidacy has already generated significant excitement and support from voters in her Orange County district and beyond. She has a strong track record of grassroots organizing and activism and is poised to build a powerful coalition of supporters to help her win in November.

For more information about Cheyenne Hunt's campaign, please visit her website at: https://www.cheyennehunt.com/.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Lynn Munroe

845-548-1211

publicrelations@ascendantgroupbranding.com

*PAID FOR BY CHEYENNE HUNT FOR CONGRESS*

Cheyenne Hunt, a passionate advocate for social justice and equality, announced today her candidacy for Congress representing California's 45th district. Hunt has built a strong following on social media platforms like TikTok, where she has used her often provocative content to educate and mobilize young people around progressive issues.

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

Approximately $140 Million Available for Wildlife Habitat Projects

SAINT PAUL, Minn. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council (LSOHC) Saturday issued its annual Call for Funding Request from the Outdoor Heritage Fund. Approximately $140 million will be available for both metro and statewide grants to aid Minnesota habitat restoration, protection and enhancement.

Requests are due to the LSOHC Friday, May 26, 2023 at 4 p.m. The funds for approved programs signed into law during the 2024 legislative session will be available Monday, July 1, 2024.

Since the Outdoor Heritage Fund's creation in 2008, $1.5 billion in on-the-ground habitat programs has been allocated by the Minnesota legislature and over 1.3 million acres of Minnesota forests, prairies and wetlands have been restored, protected and/or enhanced. The latest set of recommendations for $171 million is currently before the Minnesota legislature.

The process is competitive and open to all who wish to apply. "Each year we receive many excellent proposals containing a wide variety of projects," said Mark Johnson, LSOHC Executive Director, "but there is still great opportunity for new applicants and new ideas. If you are interested in applying, but unsure if Outdoor Heritage Funds are right for your project, call us - LSOHC staff are here to help."

Proposal requirements and terms of funding are outlined in the Call for Funding Request. To view details or learn more, visit: https://www.lsohc.mn.gov/.

For answers to specific questions, contact LSOHC Staff: https://www.lsohc.mn.gov/staff.

About Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council:

The Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council is composed of eight citizens and four legislators and makes annual recommendations to the Minnesota legislature for use of the Outdoor Heritage Fund. The Outdoor Heritage Fund is one of four funds established as a result of the Clean Water, Land and Legacy amendment, passed by Minnesota voters in November of 2008. The amendment established a dedicated sales tax increase of three-eighths of 1%. One-third of the dollars raised are deposited in the Outdoor Heritage Fund and expenditures must be used to restore, protect and enhance Minnesota's wetlands, prairies, forests and habitat for fish, game and wildlife. Current LSOHC members are listed on the LSOHC website members page: https://www.lsohc.mn.gov/Member/index.

The Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council (LSOHC) Saturday issued its annual Call for Funding Request from the Outdoor Heritage Fund. Approximately $140 million will be available for both metro and statewide grants to aid Minnesota habitat restoration, protection and enhancement.

Related link: https://www.lsohc.leg.mn/

Avenu Partners with League of Oregon Cities to Provide Expertise and Support to Local Governments

PORTLAND, Ore. /ScoopCloud/ -- Avenu Insights & Analytics (Avenu), the leading provider of revenue recovery and administration solutions for state and local governments, is proud to announce its partnership with the League of Oregon Cities (LOC). As part of this collaboration, Avenu will offer its expertise in various subjects to cities across Oregon, helping them maximize revenue, maintain compliance, and improve their operations.

With Avenu's vast experience in serving cities of all sizes across the country, they are well-positioned to provide some dedicated webinars as well as subject matter expertise on a range of critical issues. Among the topics that Avenu will cover as part of its partnership with the League of Oregon Cities are short-term rental compliance and administration, compliance auditing, tax administration, transient occupancy tax, digitizing documents, and cybersecurity.

"Through this exciting partnership, the LOC's 241 member cities will have access to Avenu's extensive experience and proven success in finding cost-effective solutions for local governments," said LOC Executive Director Patty Mulvihill. "Avenu clearly has the capabilities to provide high-impact resources to cities of diverse size throughout Oregon."

In addition to dedicated webinars, Avenu will also invite cities to participate in national events, with the first being a National Economic Forecast in partnership with the UCLA Anderson Forecast. By providing cities with access to these events, Avenu hopes to help them stay up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices in their field, ultimately helping them provide better services to their communities.

"We are excited to partner with the League of Oregon Cities and offer our expertise to cities across the state," said Paul Colangelo, Avenu's CEO. "Our team is dedicated to helping local governments succeed, and we look forward to working with city officials and staff to tackle the challenges they face."

The partnership between Avenu and the League of Oregon Cities is a testament to the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing among local government organizations. By working together, Avenu and the LOC hope to help cities across Oregon thrive and provide their residents with the best possible services.

About League of Oregon Cities:

Founded in 1925, the League of Oregon Cities (LOC) is a voluntary association representing all 241 of Oregon's incorporated cities. The LOC helps city governments serve their citizens by providing legislative advocacy services, policy consultation, intergovernmental relations assistance, networking and training, technical assistance, and publications.

About Avenu Insights & Analytics:

Over 3,500 state and local governments have partnered with Avenu to drive positive results for their communities through software administration and revenue recovery solutions. Avenu's comprehensive software solutions digitally transform government by modernizing processes, providing online access to records, and reducing costs. Avenu also provides a robust ecosystem of revenue management services that identify and recover untapped revenue. State and local governments work closely with Avenu to increase revenue without raising taxes, streamline internal operations, and improve services by enhancing connectivity for constituents. Avenu is a portfolio company of Mill Point Capital. To learn more, visit https://www.avenuinsights.com/.

About Mill Point Capital:

Mill Point Capital LLC is a private equity firm focused on control investments in lower-middle market companies across the business services, technology and industrials sectors in North America. Mill Point's experienced team of investors and Executive Partners seek portfolio company value enhancement through rigorous implementation of transformative strategic initiatives and operational improvements. Mill Point is based in New York, NY. For more information, please visit https://millpoint.com/.

Avenu Insights & Analytics (Avenu), the leading provider of revenue recovery and administration solutions for state and local governments, is proud to announce its partnership with the League of Oregon Cities (LOC). As part of this collaboration, Avenu will offer its expertise in various subjects to cities across Oregon, helping them maximize revenue, maintain compliance, and improve their operations.

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

RMS announces California Lottery® could offer its first game option for SuperLotto Plus®, Powerball®, and Mega Millions®, increasing funding for schools

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Relationship Marketing Systems, LLC ("RMS") is pleased to announce that its patented option for jackpot draw games has been submitted for approval to the California Lottery. If adopted, it would be California's first draw game add-on option. Currently, California has no game options due to the state's pari-mutuel statutes. Additionally, California would be the first state in the nation to offer this add-on, which has received high favorability among players.

The option is a lottery pool akin to traditional pooling. Integrated with the current lottery system, pooling will be easier and more accessible to players.

Much like "office pools" where people pool their money together to get multiple chances to win and share any winnings, this add-on would be available to players at the point of sale just like any other ticket. This is achieved through existing lottery infrastructure. Players would buy their own pooling ticket and collect their own share of winnings from their retailer, just as they do today. With this option, players do not need to organize people, trust in money collection or disbursement of winnings.

The pooling option would give players 10 lines of play for the same price as a single play. In return, they would receive 10% of all winnings. For example, if the last $2 billion jackpot won in California was from a pooled line of play, California would have had 10 $200 million dollar winners. Consider when the jackpot is lower, say $50 million -- even at this level, a pooled winning ticket would produce 10 $5 million dollar winners. This is still a windfall, life-changing amount of money.

Player options = more revenues.

Players like having options. Research studies show an average increase in draw game sales from pooling to be 25%. For California, if this option was available in FY2022, this would have produced an additional $341 Million dollars in sales revenues, resulting in over $115 Million dollars to California public schools, the lottery's primary beneficiary.

California's looming budget deficit will negatively impact statewide programs. This option can boost lottery benefits to public schools and help mitigate funding reductions therein.

This sample state lotto ticket shows 1 personal play for $1 and the add-on of 1 pool consisting of 10 more plays for an extra $1. In this example, the player would receive 100% of any winnings from their personal play and 10% of all winnings from the pool of 10 plays.

There is no financial risk to the California Lottery.

The uniqueness of the pooling option is that it doesn't introduce any new prize liability like that of other games. Every pooled ticket contributes to the current prize fund and every winning prize share is paid for from the same prize fund. Since it's not a new game, rather an add-on, player education and marketing incur virtually no cost with simple measures like ticket messaging and social media.

"The PoolingPLUS option brings new excitement to the games, producing more winning experiences while generating more funding for education," said Andy Amada, President of RMS, LLC.

SUPPORT "Pools for Schools," as some call it:

Send an email to your state representative or the California Lottery at: customerservice@calottery.com

ABOUT RMS:

PoolingPLUS™ by Relationship Marketing Systems, LLC ("RMS").

RMS designs products and solutions for state lotteries, players and stakeholders. To learn more, visit: https://www.poolingplus.com/ or email: info@poolingplus.com.

Relationship Marketing Systems, LLC ("RMS") is pleased to announce that its patented option for jackpot draw games has been submitted for approval to the California Lottery. If adopted, it would be California's first draw game add-on option. Currently, California has no game options due to the state's pari-mutuel statutes. Additionally, California would be the first state in the nation to offer this add-on, which has received high favorability among players.

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

NGPA Stands With Transgender Aviation Community

ST. LOUIS PARK, Minn. /ScoopCloud/ -- The NGPA strongly condemns Sen. Cruz's transphobic statement. Safety of flight is threatened by statements like Sen. Cruz'. NGPA recognizes that inclusivity and CRM are fundamental safety of flight issues. When pilots and aviation professionals across disciplines are unable to bring their whole selves to work, CRM breaks down, and so does safety.

On March 1, 2023, during the Senate Commerce Committee hearing for President Biden's pick to lead the Federal Aviation Administration, Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) is quoted claiming, "It gives no comfort to the flying public that their pilot might be a transgender witch but doesn't actually know how to prevent a plane from crashing..."

One of the most basic, fundamental principles of aviation safety is effective Crew Resource Management (CRM). Sen. Cruz admits he is not a pilot, thus, not an expert in aviation safety matters. It is understandable that the senator is egregiously ill-informed in his understanding of the dynamic relationship between pilots in the flight deck, and how critical CRM is to the safe execution of any air mission.

NGPA is committed to ensuring every pilot, and aviation professional is empowered to freely express and bring their whole selves to work. When aviation professionals exercise their judgment and expertise without fear of discrimination or harassment based on their gender identity, aviation safety is upheld at the highest standard.

NGPA & its Transgender & Non-binary Committee welcome the opportunity to educate Sen. Cruz and members of the Senate Commerce Committee on effective Crew Resource Management, how an inclusive flight deck is a safe flight deck, and how to be a supportive ally to Transgender aviators across the industry.

Justin Ellixson-Andrews

Executive Director

Parker Morgan

Transgender & Non-Binary Committee Co-Chair

Kori Necker

Transgender & Non-Binary Committee Co-Chair

ABOUT NGPA:

The NGPA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Minneapolis. Founded in 1990, NGPA is an international organization of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) aviation professionals and enthusiasts. Our organization aims to encourage individuals to begin aviation careers, foster an environment of equality for LGBTQ+ aviators, promote safety, and establish personal and professional networks. The NGPA makes this a reality through education, outreach, and social events. Our organization is run by a board of directors, executive leadership, and volunteers!

For more information, visit https://www.ngpa.org/.

The NGPA strongly condemns Sen. Cruz's transphobic statement. Safety of flight is threatened by statements like Sen. Cruz'. NGPA recognizes that inclusivity and CRM are fundamental safety of flight issues. When pilots and aviation professionals across disciplines are unable to bring their whole selves to work, CRM breaks down, and so does safety.

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

Avenu Insights & Analytics Selected as Administrator for the City and County of Honolulu’s Transient Accommodations Tax

HONOLULU, Hawaii /ScoopCloud/ -- Avenu Insights & Analytics (Avenu) is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a contract by the City and County of Honolulu to provide tax administration for transient accommodations tax (TAT), an important revenue source for the agency and its citizens.

The City is partnering with Avenu to assist the City's TAT team in the Treasury Division of the Budget and Fiscal Services Department. As the administrator of the transient accommodations tax, Avenu will be responsible for collecting and processing payments from hotel/motel operators and short-term rental providers. Avenu will also be providing live taxpayer support to help answer questions that providers and operators may have. In addition to tax administration, Avenu has also been awarded a contract to provide monitoring, identification, and compliance services for short-term rentals.

The agency is confident in Avenu's expertise and experience, and the contract award represents a significant opportunity for the company to support the agency and its citizens by administering over 70,000 transactions annually for just the hotel/motel portion of the contract.

"Avenu is honored to have been selected and looks forward to working with the City and County of Honolulu to ensure the efficient and effective administration of these taxes," stated Paul Colangelo, Avenu CEO. "We are grateful for the opportunity to serve Honolulu and its citizens and are committed to delivering exceptional results and are excited to get started on this new venture."

About Avenu Insights & Analytics:

Over 3,500 state and local governments have partnered with Avenu to drive positive results for their communities through software administration and revenue enhancement solutions. Avenu's comprehensive software solutions digitally transform government by modernizing processes, providing online access to records, and reducing costs. Avenu also provides a robust ecosystem of revenue management services that identify and recover untapped revenue. State and local governments work closely with Avenu to increase revenue without raising taxes, streamline internal operations, and improve services by enhancing connectivity for constituents. Avenu is a portfolio company of Mill Point Capital.

To learn more, visit https://www.avenuinsights.com/.

About Mill Point Capital:

Mill Point Capital LLC is a private equity firm focused on control investments in lower-middle market companies across the business services, technology and industrials sectors in North America. Mill Point's experienced team of investors and Executive Partners seek portfolio company value enhancement through rigorous implementation of transformative strategic initiatives and operational improvements. Mill Point is based in New York, NY. For more information, please visit https://millpoint.com/.

Avenu Insights & Analytics (Avenu) is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a contract by the City and County of Honolulu to provide tax administration for transient accommodations tax (TAT), an important revenue source for the agency and its citizens.

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

Tenaska Virginia Generating Station has been reapproved as a Virginia STAR Worksite

RICHMOND, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- Tenaska Virginia Generating Station in Scottsville, VA, 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).

Tenaska Virginia Generating Station is one of 37 current participants in the STAR program of public/private sector worksites to achieve and retain this recognition in Virginia. The 1,000-megawatt power plant commenced commercial production of electricity in 2004 and is a combined cycle fossil fuel electricity generation power plant utilizing three GE 7FA Gas Turbines and one GE D11 Steam Turbine located on 559 acres with 39 acres developed that is continuously operated with a total of 29 employees.

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/

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 www.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. Zero percent, or $0.00 of the State Plan budget, is financed through nongovernmental sources.

RELATED LINKS:

https://www.doli.virginia.gov/vosh-programs/consultation/on-site-visit-request/

https://www.doli.virginia.gov/about/doli-offices-statewide/

Tenaska Virginia Generating Station in Scottsville, VA, 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). Tenaska Virginia Generating Station is one of 37 current participants in the STAR program of public/private sector worksites to achieve and retain this recognition in Virginia.

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

International Paper-Richmond Container has been reapproved as a Virginia STAR Worksite

RICHMOND, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- International Paper-Richmond Container in Richmond, VA, 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).

International Paper-Richmond Container is one of 37 current participants in the STAR program of public/private sector worksites to achieve and retain this recognition in Virginia. There are 110 employees with the hourly employees being represented by the United Steelworkers Union Local 08-694. The 200,000-square-foot facility currently manufactures single, double, and triple-walled corrugated "bulk" boxes used in a variety of agricultural, chemical, and dry goods industries.

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/

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 www.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. Zero percent, or $0.00 of the State Plan budget, is financed through nongovernmental sources.

RELATED LINKS:

https://www.doli.virginia.gov/vosh-programs/consultation/on-site-visit-request/

https://www.doli.virginia.gov/about/doli-offices-statewide/

International Paper-Richmond Container in Richmond, VA, 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). International Paper-Richmond Container is one of 37 current participants in the STAR program of public/private sector worksites to achieve and retain this recognition in Virginia.

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

Engineering Development Laboratory, Inc. Receives the Virginia ‘Sharp’ Designation Under the Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program

RICHMOND, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- Commissioner Gary G. Pan announced today that the Engineering Development Laboratory, Inc. (EDLI) in Newport News, Virginia, has been certified as a Virginia SHARP Worksite under the Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP), the agency's highest level of recognition for excellence in safety and health management systems for small businesses.

"This outstanding achievement in occupational safety and health has come through the dedication and hard work of Engineering Development Laboratory, Inc. employees and management. I commend EDLI for embracing the cooperative spirit of SHARP, and congratulate them on their hard earned certification as a Virginia SHARP Worksite," said Commissioner Pan.

Engineering Development Laboratory, Inc.'s commitment to providing a safe and healthy workplace for its employees is demonstrated by its low injury and illness rates. The Ashland facility has a total three-year average for the TCIR (Total Case Incident Rate for injuries and illnesses) of 0.0 compared with a Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) national rate of 1.2, representing a TCIR rate 100% lower than the national average for the industry. The site's three-year average DART rate (Days Away, Restricted, or Transferred injury and illness cases) is 0.0, compared with the 0.6 national rate, which is 100% below the national average for the industry.

As part of the recognition for achieving Virginia SHARP status, the worksite is entitled to fly the Virginia "SHARP Worksite" flag. The process for reaching Virginia SHARP status is extensive to ensure that only the very best companies qualify. Currently, there are only 12 Virginia SHARP sites in the state. Engineering Development Laboratory, Inc site has set a standard of excellence that is second to none. They have participated in SHARP since 1998 and have not had a recordable incident in ten years.

Virginia businesses that participate in SHARP substantially improve safety and health protection for thousands of Virginia employees through cooperative efforts to reduce injuries, illnesses, and fatal accidents. SHARP worksites regularly report decreased bottom-line costs associated with dramatically reduced injury and illness rates (an average of approximately 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 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 www.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. 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. Zero percent, or $0.00 of the Virginia Consultation budget, is financed through nongovernmental sources.

RELATED LINKS:

https://www.doli.virginia.gov/about/doli-offices-statewide/

https://www.doli.virginia.gov/vosh-programs/consultation/on-site-visit-request/

Commissioner Gary G. Pan announced today that the Engineering Development Laboratory, Inc. (EDLI) in Newport News, Virginia, has been certified as a Virginia SHARP Worksite under the Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP), the agency's highest level of recognition for excellence in safety and health management systems for small businesses.

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

Acoem Acoustic Threat Detection, Archer Energy Solutions, and CIP-014 Standard – A perfect fit!

GRANTS PASS, Ore. /ScoopCloud/ -- Gun violence is a growing concern that affects every aspect of our lives. In response, Acoem has developed its Acoustic Threat Detection technology, a military-proven solution that is now available for civilian use. The technology has been refined over 30 years through constant innovation and millions of gunshot data collected from multiple combat theaters.

A growing threat facing our nation today is gun damage to critical infrastructure, with recent incidents of rogue gunmen shooting and damaging electric substations. To address this growing concern, Acoem is proud to partner with Archer to provide companies and service providers a solution to meet evolving security regulations through effective risk-based physical security programs.

Archer specializes in assessing, consulting, and testing to ensure compliance with NERC standards, including CIP-014, which recommends the use of Acoustic Detection to provide real-time alarms and awareness of gunshots or explosions as they happen. Acoem and Archer make a strong team, with Archer providing expertise in compliance and Acoem and its integration partners offering expertise in acoustic threats and physical security technology.

"We are creating a solid partnership to help companies and service providers stay updated with evolving security standards through risk-based physical security controls. Archer is excited to partner with Acoem to bring remarkable technology and value to our client's physical security and compliance demands. At the same time, help identify attacks at the earliest moment," said Nick Weber, Archer's Managing Partner.

Learn more about securing substations and other remote critical infrastructure, the Acoem ATD technology, and Archer services, by registering for an upcoming webinar on February 27, 2023.

Our teams will discuss these critical topics and provide insights on how to develop a comprehensive security and a response plan to mitigate ballistic attacks on critical infrastructure.

WEBINAR REGISTRATION LINK:

https://archerint.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_3GlH7BXXSRikTL3UHFpJvA

LEARN MORE:

Acoem ATD: https://acoematd.com/

Archer Energy Solutions: https://archerint.com/

Gun violence is a growing concern that affects every aspect of our lives. In response, Acoem has developed its Acoustic Threat Detection technology, a military-proven solution that is now available for civilian use. The technology has been refined over 30 years through constant innovation and millions of gunshot data collected from multiple combat theaters.

Related link: https://acoematd.com/

Scorecard Ranks States for Water Efficiency and Sustainability Policies – Utah Ranks #20

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah /ScoopCloud/ -- Today the Alliance for Water Efficiency (AWE) released the 2022 U.S. State Policy Scorecard for Water Efficiency and Sustainability (Scorecard), which ranked each U.S. state based on its adoption of laws and policies that advance water efficiency, conservation, sustainability, and affordability. Utah was ranked 20th in the nation and fifth in the Colorado River Basin region, scoring 28 out of 89 possible points.

"With water shortages in the Colorado River Basin and alarming water level declines in the Great Salt Lake, Utah urgently needs further investments in water efficiency and conservation," said Ron Burke, President and CEO of AWE, "Progress has been made in recent years, but in many ways, Utah is playing catch up when it should be leading the pack."

AWE found several gaps in how Utah supports local water agencies, businesses, and residents in managing water efficiently and sustainably.

The report includes four priority recommendations:

1 -- Require plumbing fixtures sold in-state to meet WaterSense efficiency specifications

2 -- Adopt policies to limit water loss in utility distribution systems

3 -- Provide state funding for water reuse/recycling

4 -- Ensure state funding for landscape transformation is used cost-effectively

While some states improved since AWE's previous Scorecard was released in 2017, the analysis found little progress overall, even as droughts and other climate change impacts increasingly undermine affordable, reliable water services. The average state score was only 23 out of 89 possible points.

"Water efficiency and conservation are typically the fastest and least expensive ways to save water while also lowering water bills, reducing energy use and greenhouse gas emissions, protecting rivers and lakes, and enhancing resilience to extreme weather events," said Burke.

Effective state-level water conservation policies are even more important now that the U.S. Congress has authorized billions of dollars in loans and grants for water services as part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act. Many of these funds will be administered by states and can only be maximized with good state policies in place.

California was the top-ranked state in the nation earning 72.5 out of 89 possible points followed by Texas with 54.5 points. The remaining top ten highest-ranked states, in order, are Arizona, Georgia, Washington, New York, Nevada, New Hampshire, Colorado, and Minnesota.

Key findings include:

* Connecticut was the only state that reported using its own funds to support customer water bill assistance

* California is the only state that requires water utilities to plan for climate change

* 18 states use their own revenues to fund water efficiency and conservation

* 16 states provide funding for water reuse.

* 13 states require rate structures that encourage water efficiency

* 19 states require coordination between local land use and water planning agencies.

Despite the low scores, there were some bright spots, including ten states adopting point-of-sale plumbing efficiency requirements since 2017 that go beyond federal standards, for a current total of 15 states plus the District of Columbia.

To download the full report and access individual state scorecards, click here: https://www.allianceforwaterefficiency.org/2022scorecard

About the Alliance for Water Efficiency:

The Alliance for Water Efficiency (AWE) is a nonprofit organization with more than 500 organizational members dedicated to the efficient and sustainable use of water across North America. AWE provides training, research, and other resources for water efficiency professionals, and we encourage the public to conserve water through tools like our Home Water Works Calculator. In addition, AWE advocates for products, programs, and policies that advance water efficiency.

Today the Alliance for Water Efficiency (AWE) released the 2022 U.S. State Policy Scorecard for Water Efficiency and Sustainability (Scorecard), which ranked each U.S. state based on its adoption of laws and policies that advance water efficiency, conservation, sustainability, and affordability. Utah was ranked 20th in the nation and fifth in the Colorado River Basin region, scoring 28 out of 89 possible points.

Scorecard Ranks States for Water Efficiency and Sustainability Policies – New Mexico Ranks #24

SANTA FE, N.M. /ScoopCloud/ -- Today the Alliance for Water Efficiency (AWE) released the 2022 U.S. State Policy Scorecard for Water Efficiency and Sustainability (Scorecard), which ranked each U.S. state based on its adoption of laws and policies that advance water efficiency, conservation, sustainability, and affordability. New Mexico received 20 out of 89 possible points, tying for the 24th ranked spot in the nation, and ranked sixth in the Colorado River Basin region.

"With water shortages in the Colorado and Rio Grande River Basins that are likely to get worse because of climate change, New Mexico urgently needs further investments in water efficiency and conservation," said Ron Burke, President and CEO of AWE. "New Mexico received less than 1/4th of the possible Scorecard points, and only Wyoming scored worse among the Colorado River Basin states."

AWE found several gaps in how New Mexico supports local water agencies, businesses, and residents in managing water efficiently and sustainably.

The report includes three priority recommendations:

* Require plumbing fixtures sold in-state to meet WaterSense efficiency specifications

* Adopt policies to limit water loss in utility distribution systems

* Require water utilities to develop and implement drought preparedness plans

While some states improved since AWE's previous Scorecard was released in 2017, the analysis found little progress overall, even as droughts and other climate change impacts increasingly undermine affordable, reliable water services. The average state score was only 23 out of 89 possible points.

"Water efficiency and conservation are typically the fastest and least expensive ways to save water while also lowering water bills, reducing energy use and greenhouse gas emissions, protecting rivers and lakes, and enhancing resilience to extreme weather events," said Burke.

Effective state-level water conservation policies are even more important now that the U.S. Congress has authorized billions of dollars in loans and grants for water services as part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act. Many of these funds will be administered by states and can only be maximized with good state policies in place.

California ranked first in the nation, with 72.5 points, followed by Texas with 54.5 points. The remaining top ten highest-ranked states, in order, are Arizona, Georgia, Washington, New York, Nevada, New Hampshire, Colorado, Minnesota.

Key findings include:

* Connecticut was the only state that reported using its own funds to support customer water bill assistance

* California is the only state that requires water utilities to plan for climate change

* 18 states use their own revenues to fund water efficiency and conservation

* 16 states provide funding for water reuse.

* 13 states require rate structures that encourage water efficiency

* 19 states require coordination between local land use and water planning agencies.

Despite the low scores, there were some bright spots, including ten states adopting point-of-sale plumbing efficiency requirements since 2017 that go beyond federal standards, for a current total of 15 states plus the District of Columbia.

To download the full report and access individual state scorecards, click here: https://www.allianceforwaterefficiency.org/2022scorecard

About the Alliance for Water Efficiency:

The Alliance for Water Efficiency (AWE) is a nonprofit organization with more than 500 organizational members dedicated to the efficient and sustainable use of water across North America. AWE provides training, research, and other resources for water efficiency professionals, and we encourage the public to conserve water through tools like our Home Water Works Calculator. In addition, AWE advocates for products, programs and policies that advance water efficiency.

Today the Alliance for Water Efficiency (AWE) released the 2022 U.S. State Policy Scorecard for Water Efficiency and Sustainability (Scorecard), which ranked each U.S. state based on its adoption of laws and policies that advance water efficiency, conservation, sustainability, and affordability. New Mexico received 20 out of 89 possible points, tying for the 24th ranked spot in the nation, and ranked sixth in the Colorado River Basin region.

Scorecard Ranks States for Water Efficiency and Sustainability Policies – California Ranks #1

SACRAMENTO Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Today the Alliance for Water Efficiency (AWE) released the 2022 U.S. State Policy Scorecard for Water Efficiency and Sustainability (Scorecard), which ranked each U.S. state based on its adoption of laws and policies that advance water efficiency, conservation, sustainability, and affordability. California was the top-ranked state in the nation and in the Colorado River Basin region, scoring 72.5 out of 89 possible points.

"California continues to lead the nation in water efficiency and conservation. As our state faces a dwindling snowpack and intense, sustained drought, the Scorecard confirms that California's water managers are working hard to ensure conservation is a California way of life," said Tia Fleming, Co-Executive Director of the California Water Efficiency Partnership, which is a state chapter of AWE.

In the western U.S., a prolonged drought fueled by climate change has contributed to significant water supply shortages. The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation has called for states in the Colorado River Basin (CRB) to significantly reduce water demand, but negotiations have not resulted in an agreement. AWE found numerous opportunities for policy improvement among the seven CRB states - which averaged 37 points out of 89 possible points - such as adopting plumbing efficiency standards, limiting water loss from utility distribution systems, and funding water reuse and recycling.

While some states improved since AWE's previous Scorecard was released in 2017, the analysis found little progress overall, even as droughts and other climate change impacts increasingly undermine affordable, reliable water services. The average state score was only 23 out of 89 possible points.

"Providing sustainable water services is increasingly costly and complicated because of climate change and other factors," said Ron Burke, President and CEO of AWE. "It's important that states, as well as the federal government, support local efforts to reduce water use with financial assistance, policies that drive best practices, and planning that facilitates cooperation across water sheds."

A common misconception is that water efficiency and conservation in the U.S. are only important in the Southwest where a prolonged drought has created a severe water crisis in the region. However, drought is increasingly common across the nation, with nearly every state experiencing drought in 2022. In addition, the benefits of reducing water use go beyond preventing water shortages. That is reflected in the geographic diversity of the top ten ranked states, with representation from the West but also the South, Midwest and East.

"Water efficiency and conservation are typically the fastest and least expensive ways to save water while also lowering water bills, reducing energy use and greenhouse gas emissions, protecting rivers and lakes, and enhancing resilience to extreme weather events," said Burke.

Effective state-level water conservation policies are even more important now that the U.S. Congress has authorized billions of dollars in loans and grants for water services as part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act. Many of these funds will be administered by states and can only be maximized with good state policies in place.

Texas ranked second behind California with 54.5 points. The remaining top ten highest-ranked states, in order, are: Arizona, Georgia, Washington, New York, Nevada, New Hampshire, Colorado, Minnesota.

Key findings include:

* Connecticut was the only state that reported using its own funds to support customer water bill assistance

* California is the only state that requires water utilities to plan for climate change

* 18 states use their own revenues to fund water efficiency and conservation

* 16 states provide funding for water reuse.

* 13 states require rate structures that encourage water efficiency

* 19 states require coordination between local land use and water planning agencies.

Despite the low scores, there were some bright spots, including ten states adopting point-of-sale plumbing efficiency requirements since 2017 that go beyond federal standards, for a current total of 15 states (including California) plus the District of Columbia.

To download the full report and access individual state scorecards, click here: https://www.allianceforwaterefficiency.org/2022scorecard

About the Alliance for Water Efficiency:

The Alliance for Water Efficiency (AWE) is a nonprofit organization with more than 500 organizational members dedicated to the efficient and sustainable use of water across North America. AWE provides training, research, and other resources for water efficiency professionals, and we encourage the public to conserve water through tools like our Home Water Works Calculator. In addition, AWE advocates for products, programs and policies that advance water efficiency.

Today the Alliance for Water Efficiency (AWE) released the 2022 U.S. State Policy Scorecard for Water Efficiency and Sustainability (Scorecard), which ranked each U.S. state based on its adoption of laws and policies that advance water efficiency, conservation, sustainability, and affordability. California was the top-ranked state in the nation and in the Colorado River Basin region, scoring 72.5 out of 89 possible points.

Scorecard Ranks States for Water Efficiency and Sustainability Policies – States Responding Slowly to Escalating Water Supply Challenges

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Today the Alliance for Water Efficiency (AWE) released the 2022 U.S. State Policy Scorecard for Water Efficiency and Sustainability (Scorecard), which ranked each U.S. state based on its adoption of laws and policies that advance water efficiency, conservation, sustainability, and affordability. California was the top-ranked state in the nation, followed by Texas, Arizona, Georgia, Washington, New York, Nevada, New Hampshire, Colorado, and Minnesota.

While some states improved since AWE's previous Scorecard was released in 2017, the analysis found little progress overall, even as droughts and other climate change impacts increasingly undermine affordable, reliable water services. The average state score was only 23 out of 89 possible points.

"Providing sustainable water services is increasingly costly and complicated because of climate change and other factors," said Ron Burke, President and CEO of AWE. "It is important that states, as well as the federal government, support local efforts to reduce water use with financial assistance, policies that drive best practices, and planning that facilitates cooperation across watersheds."

In the Western U.S., a prolonged drought, fueled by climate change, has contributed to significant water supply shortages. The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation has called for states in the Colorado River Basin (CRB) to significantly reduce water demand, but negotiations have not resulted in an agreement. AWE found numerous opportunities for policy improvement among the seven CRB states - which averaged 37 out of 89 possible points - such as adopting plumbing efficiency standards, limiting water loss from utility distribution systems, and funding water reuse and recycling.

A common misperception is that water efficiency and conservation are only important in the American Southwest. However, drought is increasingly common across the nation, with nearly every state experiencing drought in 2022. In addition, the benefits of reducing water use go beyond preventing water shortages. That is reflected in the geographic diversity of the top ten ranked states, with representation from the West but also the South, Midwest, and East.

"Water efficiency and conservation are typically the fastest and least expensive ways to save water while also lowering water bills, reducing energy use and greenhouse gas emissions, protecting rivers and lakes, and enhancing resilience to extreme weather events," said Burke.

Effective state-level water conservation policies are even more important now that the U.S. Congress has authorized billions of dollars in loans and grants for water services as part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act. Many of these funds will be administered by states and can only be maximized with good state policies in place.

Key findings include:

* Connecticut was the only state that reported using its own funds to support customer water bill assistance

* California is the only state that requires water utilities to plan for climate change

* 18 states use their own revenues to fund water efficiency and conservation

* 16 states provide funding for water reuse.

* 13 states require rate structures that encourage water efficiency

* 19 states require coordination between local land use and water planning agencies.

Despite the low scores, there were some bright spots, including ten states adopting point-of-sale plumbing efficiency requirements since 2017 that go beyond federal standards, for a current total of 15 states plus the District of Columbia.

To download the full report and access individual state scorecards, click here: https://www.allianceforwaterefficiency.org/2022scorecard

About the Alliance for Water Efficiency:

The Alliance for Water Efficiency (AWE) is a nonprofit organization with more than 500 organizational members dedicated to the efficient and sustainable use of water across North America. AWE provides training, research, and other resources for water efficiency professionals, and we encourage the public to conserve water through tools like our Home Water Works Calculator. In addition, AWE advocates for products, programs, and policies that advance water efficiency.

Learn more about AWE at: https://www.allianceforwaterefficiency.org/about.

Today the Alliance for Water Efficiency (AWE) released the 2022 U.S. State Policy Scorecard for Water Efficiency and Sustainability (Scorecard), which ranked each U.S. state based on its adoption of laws and policies that advance water efficiency, conservation, sustainability, and affordability. California was the top-ranked state in the nation, followed by Texas, Arizona, Georgia, Washington, New York, Nevada, New Hampshire, Colorado, and Minnesota.

GridBright® upgrades Oracle Network Management System (NMS) at Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative (MCEC), underscoring the repeatability of GridBright’s NMS Configuration for Cooperatives

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- MCEC, an early adopter of Oracle Network Management Systems (NMS), undertook a major NMS upgrade and re-integration with core operational systems with both standard configuration and custom integration modifications to enable the efficient operations of an ever-increasing complex electric grid. GridBright, in its upgrade of Oracle NMS at MCEC, further leveraged its proven NMS Configuration for COOPS that incorporates industry best practices from over thirty utility implementations.

As a result, GridBright implemented Oracle NMS and associated integrations at MCEC in about nine months utilizing the GridBright COOP configuration.

"The GridBright team has done an excellent job. The Oracle NMS Coop configuration designed and implemented by GridBright is working great for our operations group," said MCEC project manager Gail Campbell.

"We expect utilities focus on network management systems upgrades and new implementations to increase because of the need to integrate renewables and manage increasingly costly grid threats such as cyber-attacks and natural disasters. Accelerating this will be the substantial amount of funding available from Government sources as the Nation significantly increases investment in the electric grid for sustainability and resilience," said GridBright Executive Vice President Tom Servas.

"GridBright's NMS Configuration for COOPS helps utilities implement grid improvements with both faster time to value and lower implementation costs," Servas added.

In 2022 there have been 15 weather/climate disaster events with losses exceeding $1 billion each to affect the United States, according to NOAA. Additionally, the US government plans to invest over $16 billion in energy infrastructure to build a 21st-century electrical grid in the coming years.

About GridBright®:

GridBright specializes in secure and sustainable grid systems integration. We provide a comprehensive set of utility systems strategy consulting, business case development, procurement process support, and system implementation and integration services and software solutions. Our capabilities span all domains of information and operations technologies and systems deployed in utilities across the United States.

More information: https://www.gridbright.com/

Trademarks:

Oracle, Java, and MySQL are registered trademarks of Oracle Corporation.

MCEC, an early adopter of Oracle Network Management Systems (NMS), undertook a major NMS upgrade and re-integration with core operational systems of an ever-increasing complex electric grid. GridBright, in its upgrade of Oracle NMS at MCEC, further leveraged its proven NMS Configuration for COOPS that incorporates industry best practices from over thirty utility implementations.

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

CENTS® Powers Ecosystem at new Mississippi Cyber Center

MCLEAN, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- On November 9, 2022, Mississippi State University (MSU) and Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College (MGCCC) opened the doors to the Mississippi Cyber Center, a culmination of efforts made possible through the Mississippi Cyber Initiative (MCI). The newly renovated building on the MGCCC Harrison County Campus is the central location for the first phase of this massive commitment to cybersecurity training and knowledge-sharing. At the technical heart of MCI's Cyber Ecosystem is CyberCENTS®, By Light's comprehensive training platform composed of a high-fidelity cyber range and an integrated knowledge center for hosting work role and industry certification training, academic courses, virtual learning labs, and customized content.

The Mississippi Cyber Center now houses three labs and multiple classrooms with associated equipment. The center will support about 22 Federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to include the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, Keesler Air Force Base, and Mississippi students of all grade levels.

"Cybersecurity is a critical piece of our shared future, regardless of who you are or what kind of business you are in," said MSU Provost and Executive Vice President David Shaw during the Mississippi Cyber Center ribbon cutting. "Through the Mississippi Cyber Initiative, we are creating a statewide network that is using unparalleled collaboration to address these issues head on. I am incredibly excited about the impact of this facility and the unlimited potential of what we can accomplish working together."

The MGCCC Cyber Ecosystem contracted By Light to provide a Platform as a Service (PaaS) early in 2022 after proposing a hybrid cyber range solution (on-premises and cloud) using its Virtualized Cyber Classroom Environment (VCCE®). The on-premises component allows the MGCCC ecosystem to network a library of virtual machines with devices at Layer 2; Hardware-in-the-Loop (HWIL), such as laptops, forensic kits; Industrial Control Systems (ICS); and Internet of Things (IoT). The dedicated cloud component to the Cyber Ecosystem provides 24/7, web-based access for self-paced coursework and remote learning environments.

By Light is one of only a few U.S. companies able to provide end to end services as a sole vendor for a hybrid range of this scale.

"CyberCENTS is the foundational tool that enables MGCCC's cyber experts to prepare, tailor, deploy and track individual and collective education, training, and exercise events, preparing students to defend against current and emerging cyber threats," said Gary Morton, By Light VP of Engineering.

About By Light:

By Light Professional IT Services LLC, headquartered in McLean, VA is an ISO 9001, 20000-1, and 27001 registered and CMMI Level 3 certified 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 https://bylight.com/.

About CyberCENTS®:

By Light's CyberCENTS division has provided high-fidelity Government and commercial cyberspace operations products and solutions since 2000. Our engineers and developers are among the best and the brightest, to include pioneers of the first Department of Defense (DoD) cyber range, known today as the Cyberoperations Enhanced Network and Training Simulators (CENTS®). Using a team approach reinforced by onsite experts, we deliver operational support, technical and managed cybersecurity services, and training to the DoD, Intelligence Community, Government agencies, commercial customers, and universities.

For more information, visit https://cybercents.com/.

On November 9, 2022, Mississippi State University (MSU) and Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College (MGCCC) opened the doors to the Mississippi Cyber Center, a culmination of efforts made possible through the Mississippi Cyber Initiative (MCI). The newly renovated building on the MGCCC Harrison County Campus is the central location for the first phase of this massive commitment to cybersecurity training and knowledge-sharing.

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

Acoem’s acoustic threat detection technology helps detect gunshots and assists in multiple arrests of shooters in Edenton, North Carolina

EDENTON, N.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Edenton Police Department has partnered with Acoem USA to implement Acoustic Threat Detection (ATD) technology to combat the community's recent increase in gun violence incidents. These real-time alerts triggered by ATD sensors notify police precisely when and where gun violence incidents occur.

This results in a faster, more accurate response to the scene to better recover evidence, interview witnesses and tend to gunshot victims.

Edenton, N.C. was one of the first communities in the state to use this ATD. The town installed 15 ATD sensors during the summer of 2021. With Acoem's technology able to localize a threat with one sensor, the scalability allowed this small town the opportunity to have big-city technology on a lower budget.

To date, its success in the public arena has been unmatched. In its first year of deployment, the Acoem ATD system detected 100 percent of the gunshots within its detection range with video evidence of a vehicle in a drive-by shooting. Most recently, on October 31, 2022, an Acoem sensor detected and alerted that multiple shots were fired in Edenton. Video evidence helped to identify and consequently arrest two shooters within 24 hours.

"We're committed to creating a community that allows its citizens to feel safe so that they can go about their lives," Henry King, Chief of Police, Town of Edenton, N.C., says. "Acoem's ATD is one part of our overall community-first policing plan and having technology like this in our tool belt keeps us one step ahead of criminals."

Acoem ATD systems are built to fit the end users' needs and work with their existing VMS, dispatch and other alerting software in use. With Acoem ATD systems, there's no intermediary. The end user controls their program.

"It was simple to integrate into our existing camera system and gives us the control we need to get alerts immediately," King adds.

ATD can be mounted just about anywhere. Walls and light poles are common examples, but they can adapt to any location due to their flexible mounting capabilities.

"Gunshot detection is not a new technology in the security market, but with Acoem being one of the original innovators of gunshot detection over three decades ago, our ATD sensor has a big advantage over competitors," Mike Arnold, sales manager for Acoem, says.

Acoem's technology is paired with a PTZ camera to not only provide an alert, location and audio, but also to give first responders a look at what is happening at the scene by moving the camera in the direction of the threat as it's detected.

"That situational awareness can be a force multiplier in an active situation," Arnold says. "Along with our AI, scalability and giving the end user ownership and control over their system, Acoem can be a game changer for our communities, schools and in everyday life."

For more information: https://acoematd.com/atd/

About Acoem ATD Systems:

As a leading manufacturer of advanced public security systems, Acoem is committed to securing safer communities through smarter security. Community partnerships fuel its mission, and its revolutionary AI-powered technology is the first of its kind to give security systems the power of both sight and sound. With no system minimums, it's ideal for use on corporate campuses, schools, industry, churches, public venues, cities and more. Learn more: https://acoematd.com/.

The Edenton Police Department has partnered with Acoem USA to implement Acoustic Threat Detection (ATD) technology to combat the community's recent increase in gun violence incidents. These real-time alerts triggered by ATD sensors notify police precisely when and where gun violence incidents occur.

Related link: https://acoematd.com/

Short-Term Rental Compliance Provider LTAS Technologies Inc. (Harmari) Acquired by Avenu

CENTREVILLE, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- Avenu Insights & Analytics (Avenu), the global leader in revenue enhancement and administration solutions for state and local governments, today announced the acquisition of LTAS Technologies Inc. (Harmari®), a leading provider of short-term rental identification, monitoring and compliance software and services.

Avenu and Harmari share a long history of providing innovative public sector solutions that maximize revenue, optimize operations, fight fraud and non-compliance, and enhance the citizen experience. Both companies bring together a common mission to better connect governments with citizens through enhanced digital platforms and real-time communication.

Harmari's industry leading monitoring and identification software and Avenu's scalable administrative solutions will help maximize compliance, while streamlining the collection of short-term rental and transient tax revenue for governments. Together, Avenu and Harmari will provide an end-to-end monitoring and full-service compliance solution that improves the citizen experience while maintaining a budget-neutral approach for local leaders.

The integration of Harmari's monitoring and machine learning technology and Avenu's full-service compliance, administration, and analytics brings together a fully integrated platform for both citizens and government officials. The result is a level of service that transforms the way in which local government can address the rapid growth associated with short term rentals that puts a heavy drain on staff, services and resources that are hard to scale for local officials. This approach reduces the dependency burden on governments to piece together resource-intensive processes and technologies that result in an inefficient experience and loss of tax and permitting revenue for governments and the citizens they serve.

"Keeping pace with the growth of short-term rentals, rapid changes in technology, and increased citizen expectations are challenges that many state and local governments are facing," shared Avenu CEO, Paul Colangelo. "We are combining the industry's leading technologies to create a better experience for citizen's while providing a full-service compliance solution that gives governments a way to properly monitor and collect all short-term rental revenue."

"We are very pleased to join the Avenu family," stated Harmari CEO, Allen Atamer. "We are continually innovating our technology to pivot to the needs of local governments and address the rapidly changing landscape. Harmari has a highly skilled team, and together, we will continue to deliver an industry leading GovTech platform that modernizes and streamlines this critical revenue stream and compliance objective for governments of all sizes, worldwide."

About Avenu Insights & Analytics:

Over 3,000 state and local governments have partnered with Avenu to drive positive results for their communities through software administration and revenue enhancement solutions. Avenu's comprehensive software solutions digitally transform government by modernizing processes, providing online access to records, and reducing costs. Avenu also provides a robust ecosystem of revenue management services that identify and recover untapped revenue. State and local governments work closely with Avenu to increase revenue without raising taxes, streamline internal operations, and improve services by enhancing connectivity for constituents. Avenu is a portfolio company of Mill Point Capital.

To learn more, visit https://www.avenuinsights.com/.

About LTAS Technologies Inc. (Harmari):

Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Toronto, LTAS Technologies Inc. is a SaaS provider of monitoring and compliance tools to over 300 government customers in the US, Canada and Spain at the federal, state, provincial and municipal level. Harmari's technology focuses on providing deep insight and clarity to online short-term rental data that allows governments to understand and administer compliance such as registration, transient lodging tax payment, nuisance response and audit selection.

About Mill Point Capital:

Mill Point Capital LLC is a private equity firm focused on control investments in lower-middle market companies across the business services, technology and industrials sectors in North America. Mill Point's experienced team of investors and Executive Partners seek portfolio company value enhancement through rigorous implementation of transformative strategic initiatives and operational improvements. Mill Point is based in New York, NY.

For more information, please visit https://millpoint.com/.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Corinne Aycock, Avenu Marketing Manager, 571.313.5882

MULTIMEDIA:

Image link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/22-1110-s2p-avenu-harmari-300dpi.jpg

Avenu Insights & Analytics (Avenu), the global leader in revenue enhancement and administration solutions for state and local governments, today announced the acquisition of LTAS Technologies Inc. (Harmari®), a leading provider of short-term rental identification, monitoring and compliance software and services.

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

Innovative Refrigeration Systems Receives The Virginia ‘Sharp’ Designation Under The Virginia Department of Labor and Industry’s (DOLI) Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program

RICHMOND, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- Commissioner Gary G. Pan announced today that the Innovative Refrigeration Systems in Lyndhurst, Virginia, has been certified as a Virginia SHARP Worksite under the Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP), the agency's highest level of recognition for excellence in safety and health management systems for small businesses.

"This outstanding achievement in occupational safety and health has come through the dedication and hard work of Innovative Refrigeration Systems employees and management. I commend Innovative Refrigeration Systems for embracing the cooperative spirit of SHARP, and congratulate them on their hard earned certification as a Virginia SHARP Worksite," said Commissioner Pan.

Innovative Refrigeration Systems' commitment to providing a safe and healthy workplace for its employees is demonstrated by its low injury and illness rates. The Lyndhurst facility has a total three-year average for the TCIR (Total Case Incident Rate for injuries and illnesses) of 1.46 compared with a Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) national rate of 2.7, representing a TCIR rate 46% lower than the national average for the industry. The site's three-year average DART rate (Days Away, Restricted, or Transferred injury and illness cases) is 0.36, compared with the 1.5 national rate, which is 76% below the national average for the industry.

As part of the recognition for achieving Virginia SHARP status, the worksite is entitled to fly the Virginia "SHARP Worksite" flag. The process for reaching Virginia SHARP status is extensive to ensure that only the very best companies qualify. Currently, there are only 12 Virginia SHARP sites in the state. Innovative Refrigeration Systems site has set a standard of excellence that is second to none.

Virginia businesses that participate in SHARP substantially improve safety and health protection for thousands of Virginia employees through cooperative efforts to reduce injuries, illnesses, and fatal accidents. SHARP worksites regularly report decreased bottom line costs associated with dramatically reduced injury and illness rates (an average of approximately 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 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. Learn more: https://www.doli.virginia.gov/.

Commissioner Gary G. Pan announced today that the Innovative Refrigeration Systems in Lyndhurst, Virginia, has been certified as a Virginia SHARP Worksite under the Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP), the agency's highest level of recognition for excellence in safety and health management systems for small businesses.

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

Cintas Location #391 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/ -- Cintas Corporation Location #391 (Portsmouth, Va.) is one of 37 current participants in the STAR program of public/private sector worksites to achieve and retain this recognition in Virginia. This facility provides uniform programs and provides facility services such as; entrance mats, restroom cleaning, and restroom supplies for businesses in the greater Hampton Roads area. 141 employees work at a 100,000-square-foot facility that began production under the Cintas name in 2002.

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

Cintas Corporation Location #391 (Portsmouth, Va.) is one of 37 current participants in the STAR program of public/private sector worksites to achieve and retain this recognition in Virginia. This facility provides uniform programs and provides facility services such as; entrance mats, restroom cleaning, and restroom supplies for businesses in the greater Hampton Roads area.

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

Synergetics’ OpenFLIS Receives Provisional Authority to Operate (P-ATO) from the FedRAMP Joint Authorization Board (JAB)

FORT COLLINS, Colo. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Joint Authorization Board (JAB), consisting of the Chief Information Officers from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), General Services Administration (GSA), and Department of Defense (DoD), has given Provisional Authority to Operate (P-ATO) as a JAB MODERATE system to Synergetics Inc of Fort Collins, Colorado, and their product OpenFLIS™. This authorizes Synergetics as one of only 52 government-wide FedRAMP cloud service providers.

OpenFLIS™ is a low-code Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform that hosts one or more data products per Federal customer (tenant) in a dashboard experience. OpenFLIS™ consolidates data from multiple sources, transforms it, and leverages Microsoft Azure's Deep Learning (DL) capabilities for search and discovery.

Designed for microservices deployment, OpenFLIS™ offers mission owners:

a. Central control of their users' accesses and capabilities, powering zero-trust

b. Syncing data products, introducing cross-compatibility and integration of systems

c. Artificial Intelligence (AI)--powered search with Natural Language Processing (NLP), pruning the cost of training

d. Views and APIs configured to model business needs on the fly, minimizing code changes

e. Compliance with Federal cloud migration directives and FedRAMP, uplifting mission owners

f. Maintenance of independent components, reducing breaking changes

g. Analytics that capture patterns and insights, informing decisions

h. Custom reporting and alerting, supporting the KPIs Federal PMs are responsible for

OpenFLIS™ is poised as the successor to several products that are key to the National Stock Number (NSN) supply chain, a market that supports millions of daily users and transacts $400 billion annually and growing according to the Government Accountability Office (GAO).

OpenFLIS™ is the newest addition to a portfolio of Synergetics intellectual property residing at the trust center of DoD logistics and delivering accuracy on eligible parts, products, and vendors. These products are relied on by all US Government agencies that purchase NSNs and over 95 countries.

Federal Agencies are encouraged to use this FedRAMP P-ATO as a key element of their Full Agency Authority to Operate (ATO).

Learn more: https://synergetics.com/openflis/

About Synergetics Incorporated:

Synergetics is a longstanding Colorado SaaS company focused on Federal modernization initiatives. Synergetics' software solutions have been trusted for 27 years by a variety of Government agencies including but not limited to the Department of Defense (DoD), the National Institute of Health (NIH), the US Geological Survey (USGS), and the US Department of Agriculture (USDA).

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

The Joint Authorization Board (JAB), consisting of the Chief Information Officers from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), General Services Administration (GSA), and Department of Defense (DoD), has given Provisional Authority to Operate (P-ATO) as a JAB MODERATE system to Synergetics Inc of Fort Collins, Colorado, and their product OpenFLIS™. This authorizes Synergetics as one of only 52 government-wide FedRAMP cloud service providers.

Related link: https://synergetics.com/

Power of the Ballot Debate Watch Party and Comedy Show Set Off GOTV Mobilization Efforts with Celebrity Talents BPhlat, Erin Jackson and MESHELLE

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Call it the calm before the midterm election storm. Georgia Black Women's Roundtable (GA BWR) treated staff, volunteers, local and national leaders, and members of the community to a night filled with tasty food, great company, and a lot of laughter when they hosted a Power of the Ballot Debate Watch Party and Comedy Show this past Friday, October 14 at IBEW Local 613. The event kicked off a weekend of organizing as election activists hit the streets to educate and motivate citizens to be among the first to cast a ballot for early voting which begins on Monday, October 17.

"We are beginning this very serious mobilization phase with a fun event because our workers and volunteers have been pounding the pavement for months and we know how hard it will get over the next few weeks to motivate and mobilize frustrated voters," expressed Helen Butler, executive director of Georgia Coalition for the People's Agenda (People's Agenda) and convener of GA BWR.

Butler continues, "We are also fighting voter suppression tactics so we are training more poll workers than usual and, if it's anything like 2021, we may have to deal with angry voters retaliating because they believed there was voter fraud. Black voters understand the power of the ballot and will turn out like they did in 2020 so we want to make sure they can vote. We have a lot of work to do so it was great to relax and enjoy the comediennes."

In addition to Butler, members of GA BWR that organized the event included: Felicia Davis, Clayton County Black Women's Roundtable; Deborah Scott, GA STAND-UP; and Sandra L. Williams, Retail, Wholesale Department Store Union. Melanie L. Campbell, president of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation's (NCBCP) and convener of BWR, was on hand to bring greetings from the national office.

As part of the organizing weekend the nonpartisan groups traveled through the Atlanta area on a bus wrapped with get-out-the-vote messages about the power of the ballot and urging people to vote. The bus will continue to visit cities in Georgia to mobilize Black voters and let residents know they can get a free ride to the polls by calling the GA Coalition for the People's Agenda hotline at 877-524-8683.

Additional events over the weekend included a tailgating event on Saturday at the NCBCP Thomas W. Dortch, Jr. Institute during Clark Atlanta University's Homecoming, and on Sunday Georgia STAND-UP hosted a brunch and gospel concert at their headquarters in East Point, GA. The organizing weekend was part of NCBCP's seven-state Unity '22 Black Women's Roundtable Power of the Ballot GOTV Comedy Tour and Organizing Weekend.

Comediennes Meshelle "The Indie Mom" of Comedy, Erin Jackson and BPhlat were just a sampling of the special guests who lined up to get out the vote. The comedy show followed the debate between former football player and businessman, Herschel Walker, and Georgia Senator and Pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church, Senator Raphael Warnock.

National Partners include AARP, SEIU, Neo Philanthropy/State Infrastructure Fund and Kapor Center. Local partners are Black Male Initiative and Atlanta-North Georgia Labor Council.

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

ABOUT THE PEOPLE'S AGENDA/GA BWR

Georgia Black Women's Roundtable is convened by the Georgia Coalition for the People's Agenda (http://thepeoplesagenda.org). 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 Helen Butler, the organization has headquarters in Atlanta and offices in Athens, Albany, Macon, Augusta, LaGrange, and Savannah.

ABOUT CLAYTON COUNTY BLACK WOMEN'S ROUNDTABLE

Clayton County Black Women's Roundtable is an affiliate of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation's Black Women's Roundtable, (https://www.blackwomensroundtable.org) an intergenerational leadership development, mentoring, and empowerment arm for Black women and girls. The Black Women's Roundtable is at the forefront of championing justice and equitable public policies that center racial, economic, climate and gender justice key elements of success.

ABOUT GEORGIA STAND-UP

The Georgia Strategic Alliance for New Directions and Unified Policies (Georgia STAND-UP) (https://www.georgiastandup.org) provides research, strategy, technical support, and resource development for grassroots community organizing and non-partisan voter education. STAND-UP and Vote! is their year-round voter education and registration campaign. STAND-UP is one of the most visible and successful voting advocates in the Southeast emphasizing "boots on the ground," door knocking, and grassroots mobilization.

ATLANTA NORTH GEORGIA LABOR COUNCIL

The Atlanta North Georgia Labor Council (https://unionhall.aflcio.org/atlclc) is one of nearly 500 state and local labor councils of the AFL-CIO and are the heart of the labor movement. We are democratically elected bodies dedicated to representing the interests of working people at the state and local level. We mobilize our members and community partners to advocate for social and economic justice and we strive daily to vanquish oppression and make our communities better for all people.

Call it the calm before the midterm election storm. Georgia Black Women's Roundtable (GA BWR) treated staff, volunteers, local and national leaders, and members of the community to a night filled with tasty food, great company, and a lot of laughter when they hosted a Power of the Ballot Debate Watch Party and Comedy Show this past Friday, October 14 at IBEW Local 613.

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

Dan Robin, Attorney General Candidate in Illinois, Offers Best Possible Challenge to President Biden’s Student Loan Forgiveness

SCHAUMBURG, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Dan Robin, Libertarian Party (LP) candidate for Illinois Attorney General (AG), intends to file a lawsuit against the student loan servicers for fraud if they follow President Biden's forgiveness plans.

"President Biden's student loan forgiveness executive order is illegal," Robin says. "He lacks legislative authority. But, does anyone have standing to challenge it?"

Robin does. He plans to file suit against the loan servicers for fraud. Billing for the lower amount, when in fact the full amount is due, is fraud. Borrowers will incur extra interest and penalties if they follow the "misrepresentation" of the collection agencies.

In response to the President's student loan plan, Robin issued the following statement:

President Biden's August 24, 2022 statement and release canceled $10,000 of student loans for those with income up to $125,000 for individuals and $250,000 for married couples. No statute gives the President authority to "cancel" debt across the board, as he did.

Many laws and/or executive orders are illegal or unconstitutional. You cannot simply ask a judge to declare a law to be unlawful. You must have standing; a real case where you allege existing or potential injury. Students receiving the loan cancellation aren't going to sue; students not receiving the cancellation have no injury. Taxpayers and politicians have no standing to sue, either.

It is very difficult to find anyone who can lawfully challenge the president's executive order, but there is one possible exception. The Pacific Legal Foundation recently filed suit claiming that their client, a student borrower, would be taxed by the state of Indiana for discharged debt. I wish them all the luck in their endeavors.

The current Illinois AG Kwame Raoul recently settled a lawsuit against the student loan servicers for fraud associated with their collection techniques. The Attorney General has authority to enforce the consumer fraud statutes in Illinois. It is my theory that since the cancellation is unlawful and the collection agencies are mandated to honestly represent the correct amount due to the borrowers, any statement that they owe the reduced amount would constitute a material misrepresentation of fact, i.e., fraud. Student borrowers will incur extra interest and penalties if they follow the misrepresentation of the collection agencies.

Therefore, if elected to the office of Attorney General, I would file suit against any collection agency that misrepresented to the borrowers the amount due. The agencies would then have a choice, either collect on the lesser amount and be sued by myself, or collect on the original amount and be sued by the president.

The people of Illinois deserve to know whether my opponents intend to prevent fraud by the student loan servicers.

LEARN MORE:

Learn more about the candidate and his platform at: https://danrobin4ag.org/

Donations to Dan Robin for Attorney General can be made here: https://danrobin4ag.org/donate.

Robin is also available for interviews and media appearances.

About Dan Robin for Attorney General:

Daniel K. Robin of Schaumburg is an attorney with 45 years of experience. He is running for Attorney General to make Illinois into a refuge of liberty. He is also the author of "Libertarian War on Poverty: Repairing the Ladder of Upward Mobility" (ISBN: 978-1470158484) which explains how freedom is a weapon in the war on poverty. His loves are his wife, his son, tennis, biking and gardening.

For more information visit: https://danrobin4ag.org/

-- Paid for by the Committee to Elect Daniel Robin, Attorney General. --

Publication/syndication of this press release does not imply an endorsement of any candidate.

Dan Robin, Libertarian Party (LP) candidate for Illinois Attorney General (AG), intends to file a lawsuit against the student loan servicers for fraud if they follow President Biden's forgiveness plans. Daniel K. Robin of Schaumburg is an attorney with 45 years of experience. He is running for Attorney General to make Illinois into a refuge of liberty.

Related link: https://danrobin4ag.org/

Sheriff Villanueva’s Reelection Campaign Releases New Campaign Video and Fundraising Numbers

SANTA FE SPRINGS, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The campaign to re-elect Sheriff Alex Villanueva announces the launch of its new campaign video airing across local Los Angeles TV stations and online. You can view the video https://youtu.be/SGnEDO64yI4.

In addition, as of the September 24 reporting deadline, the Campaign announces fundraising numbers as follows: With 24 hours + remaining on our fundraising deadline, we expect close to $500,000 to have been raised during this reporting period. Sheriff Villanueva's Campaign has led in fundraising from day 1 and continues to outperform his opponent, showcasing the will of the people of Los Angeles County.

Additional endorsements this month include: The International Longshore and Warehouse Union Local 13 workers Union Local and the El Monte Police Officers Association.

At the first televised debate which took place earlier this week on September 21 at the Skirball Cultural Center in Santa Monica and was presented by FOX 11 Los Angeles and partners KPCC, Univision and Los Angeles Times, Sheriff Villanueva discussed his plan for a second term and presented pivotal questions for his opponent to respond to.

Among these questions, Sheriff Villanueva pressured Chief Robert Luna to clarify his record across the following issues:

* Alex exposed Luna for having no plans to address Homelessness, Rising Crime, and Public Corruption

* We learned Robert Luna admitted he grew up admitting he grew up in Santa Fe Springs, not East LA as he has claimed.

* Robert Luna failed to explain his involvement in the beating of African American motorist Galen Ball?

* Luna failed to explain why in his 20 years in senior command he failed to promote a single African American Woman.

* Luna failed to explain his involvement in the death of Faustino Rodriguez - the Breonna Taylor of the 90's.

* Luna also failed to explain his involvement in the North Town Rangers, a white supremacist police officer "gang" in Long Beach.

"The record shows that Robert Luna has a history of racial bias against African Americans, a personal history of misconduct, and a professional history of promoting and protecting racists. In addition, Robert Luna has several violent incidents as an officer he needs to explain to all of us," said Sheriff Villanueva.

Campaign Manager Javier Gonzalez (javier@alexvillaneuva.org) can provide firsthand witnesses to discuss these incidents.

For campaign information, visit https://alexvillanueva.org/ and follow @Alex4Sheriff on Instagram.

About Sheriff Villanueva:

When elected Sheriff four years ago, Sheriff Villanueva became the first candidate to unseat an incumbent LA Sheriff in over a century. Running on a campaign platform of "reform, rebuild and restore," Sheriff Villanueva began to immediately address challenges within the department that plagued it for so many years under previous administrations. The Sheriff wasted no time in tackling these problems, such as instituting policies that ban deputy "gangs," equipping all deputies with body-worn cameras, banning transfers to ICE and raising standards which helped diversify the leadership within the department (such as raising standards for internal promotions, new hires and senior command staff). Along with creating the most diverse senior command, Sheriff Villanueva's actions resulted in a dramatic reduction in use of force lawsuits against the department.

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

Publication/syndication of this press release does not imply an endorsement of any candidate.

The campaign to re-elect Sheriff Alex Villanueva announces the launch of its new campaign video airing across local Los Angeles TV stations and online. Additional endorsements this month include: The International Longshore and Warehouse Union Local 13 workers Union Local and the El Monte Police Officers Association.

Related link: https://alexvillanueva.org/

Broward County Crime Commission to Host Webinar: Active Shooters Among Us: Are the Solutions that Complex?

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- As part of its Building Bridges Mental Health Conference Series, the Broward County Crime Commission is hosting a preemption and prevention-based webinar to analyze outside the box solutions to stop Active Shooter tragedies. 15 of the most renowned experts in the country are participating.

WHAT: Are the Solutions that Complex: Active Shooters Among Us

WHEN: Wednesday, September 28, 2022

WHERE: ZOOM Webinar Platform

TIME: 7:50 a.m. to Noon EDT

TO REGISTER: http://www.browardcrime.org/

Crime Commission Director/CEO, James DePelisi, was quoted as saying, "These Active Shooter killings are becoming an epidemic of great proportions. If School Districts, Public Safety, and Behavioral Health Specialists work closer together, to implement Intelligence Gathering solutions, these tragedies can certainly be mitigated. But it will require the proverbial Team Effort approach. It is not that complex. To quote Steve Jobs, Let's Think Different...Together"

Four Tracks on the Day: 3 panels, 1 presentation, and 15 speakers.

* Panel I: Artificial Intelligence Concepts and Intelligence Gathering Techniques;

* Panel II: Root Causes of Active Shooter events.

* Dual Presentation: How to Talk to Children about Active Shooter Tragedies;

* Panel III: Survivors from the Highland Park Illinois, July 4th shooting, discuss how they are coping and moving forward. Hear their stories.

TO REGISTER: www.BrowardCrime.org

SEE FULL AGENDA WITH PARTICIPANTS AND TIMES BELOW:

7:50 a.m. to 8:00 a.m.

Opening Comments, James DePelisi, Broward County Crime Commission

8:00 a.m. to 8:55 a.m. - Panel I:

Educators, Law Enforcement, Behavioral Health & Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategies to INTERCEPT Active Shooter Killers

* Retired District Attorney, Matt Mangino, Lawrence County, PA

* Dr. Allison Paolini, Assistant Professor of School Counseling, Program Director, Arkansas State University

* J.T. Wilkins, Senior Vice President of Government Solutions, Zero Eyes

* Marisa R. Randazzo, Ph.D., Director of Threat Assessment Georgetown University

* Ret. Colonel Alvin Pollock, Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO)

MODERATOR: James DePelisi, Director/CEO, Broward County Crime Commission

BREAK: 8:55 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.

9:00 a.m. to 9:55 a.m. - Panel II:

Are Guns the Root Cause of Active Killer Events?

* Analysis and Debate

* Mr. John Lott, President, Crime Prevention Research Center

* Dr. Ragy Girgis, MD, MS, Associate Professor of Clinical Psychiatry, Columbia University Department of Psychiatry and New York State Psychiatric Institute

MODERATOR: James DePelisi, Director/CEO, Broward County Crime Commission

BREAK: 9:55 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m. to 10:55 a.m. - Dual Presentation:

How to Talk to Your Children about Active Killer Tragedies

* Dr. Thomas DeMaria, National Center for School Crisis & Bereavemet

* Dr. Robin Gurwitch, Professor in Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine

BREAK: 10:55 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m. to Noon - Panel III:

Survivors of Active Shooter Attacks - Hear How They Cope and Move Forward

* Mr. David Sallak, Citizen, Highland Park, Illinois, July 4th Shooting

* Mr. Tony Brosio, Citizen, Highland Park, Illinois, July 4th Shooting

* Ms. Nancy Rotering, Mayor, Highland Park, Illinois, July 4th Shooting

* Mr. Eric Graves, Community Journalist, FOX 59 TV, Indianapolis, on Behalf of the Citizens of the Greenwood Park Mall Shooting, Indiana

MODERATOR: Ms. Sandra Welch, Vice Mayor City of Coconut Creek

About the Broward County Crime Commission:

Founded in 1976, by Proclamation of the citizenry of south Florida, the Broward County Crime Commission is one of 22 Citizen Crime Commissions in America, and the fifth oldest in the United States. Its mission is to assess and evaluate crime, and social issues which can transpire into crime, within Broward County (and the state of Florida, in general), and to work in concert with the General Public, Law Enforcement, and Criminal Justice System to derive preemptive and preventive solutions to such crimes, through Behavioral Health Analytics, Academic Programs, and Community Outreach Programs. http://www.browardcrime.org/.

About the Building Bridges Mental Health Conference Series:

The Building Bridges Mental Health Conference Series was conceived to narrow the gap, and finite the correlation between Behavioral Health issues and Crime, so that such crimes can be prevented and preempted. Since November of 2013, the Crime Commission has hosted and executed a body of work comprising more than 40 webinars and conferences, in the areas of: Active Shooter Events, Verbal De-escalation and Conflict Resolution, Narcotics Trafficking, Domestic Violence, Workplace Violence, Societal Violence, School Campus Violence, Juvenile Violence, Crimes Against Children of Autism, Hate Crime Violence, Sextortion, and Cyber Crime Ransomware Extortion. More than 7,000 people have attended these acclaimed forums; and more than 700 speakers and judges have participated. Attendees and panel participants include: Psychologists, Psychiatrists, Sociologists, Social Workers, Journalists, Law Enforcement Administrators, Judges, Criminal Justice Members, Front Line First Responders, Prosecutors, Defense Attorney's, Doctors, Nurses, Academia, Educators, and the General Public.

TO REGISTER: www.BrowardCrime.org

As part of its Building Bridges Mental Health Conference Series, the Broward County Crime Commission is hosting a preemption and prevention-based webinar to analyze outside the box solutions to stop Active Shooter tragedies. 15 of the most renowned experts in the country are participating.

Related link: http://www.BrowardCrime.org/

Ivan Duque, Former President of the Republic of Colombia, announces historic Concordia Amazon Initiative at the 2022 Concordia Annual Summit

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Ivan Duque Marquez, Former President of Colombia, today announced the Concordia Amazon Initiative on the Metropolitan Stage of the 2022 Concordia Annual Summit. The leading global affairs platform commenced its 12th annual convening on Monday, September 19 and it is being held through Wednesday, September 21, alongside the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

The Amazon, which spans eight rapidly-developing countries and French Guiana, contains 1.4 billion acres of dense forests-half of the planet's remaining tropical forests. Additionally, there are 2.6 million square miles in the Amazon basin, which equates to around 40% of South America. The objective of the Concordia Amazon Initiative is to raise awareness around the intricate link between the health of the Amazon and the health of the planet, and the kinds of commitments the private sector can make to preserve the rainforest.

"The Concordia Amazon Initiative constitutes a milestone in the process of public-private engagement to protect, defend and promote the most important natural lung of our planet," commented Former President Duque.

He went on to say: "Through aggregated value chains with indigenous communities, conservation projects, the promotion of nature-based solutions, and green finance, we expect to build traceable and trustworthy interventions that will have a meaningful effect in a territory that is pivotal in any climate action policy framework."

The Initiative's first iteration will consist of a high-level strategic convening in the Amazon, bringing together leaders of the private and public sectors to provide education, training, and insight, and ultimately foster collaborative solutions.

Concordia's Co-Founder & CEO, Matthew Swift, said: "The Former President has placed environmental sustainability at the forefront of Colombia's agenda during his tenure, establishing an ambitious strategy for achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and, specifically, mobilizing climate finance at scale to accelerate the country's transition to a green future. Now he is ensuring it is also at the forefront of our collective global agenda with his announcement today. We are honored to work with President Duque on this important and most relevant topic and convening."

LEARN MORE: https://www.concordia.net/annualsummit/2022annualsummit/

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 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: https://www.concordia.net/.

Ivan Duque Marquez, Former President of Colombia, today announced the Concordia Amazon Initiative on the Metropolitan Stage of the 2022 Concordia Annual Summit. The leading global affairs platform commenced its 12th annual convening on Monday, September 19 and it is being held through Wednesday, September 21, alongside the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

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

Cross-sector leaders to join the leading nonpartisan global affairs forum alongside UNGA

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- The 2022 Concordia Annual Summit is taking place next week, September 19-21, at the Sheraton New York Times Square during the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Maintaining its position as the premier global affairs forum alongside the UN General Assembly, Concordia's 12th Annual Summit (purchase a pass here to attend) will convene today's preeminent C-suite executives, politicians, nonprofit leaders, and entrepreneurs to explore the greatest challenges of our time through the lens of collaboration.

Speakers include:

Goldie Hawn, Founder, MindUP | The Goldie Hawn Foundation; Anne M. Finucane, Chairman of the Board, Bank of America Europe; Eric Adams, Mayor, City of New York; Alison Moore, CEO, Comic Relief US; Dr. Olivia White, Director, Mckinsey Global Institute, Mckinsey & Company; Rose Stuckey Kirk, Chief Corporate Social Responsibility Officer, Verizon; David Malpass, President, The World Bank Group; Barbara Humpton, President & CEO, Siemens USA; Steve MacMillan, Chairman, President & CEO, Hologic, Inc.; Sofia Carson, Actress, Singer & UNICEF USA Ambassador; Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah, Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan; H.E. Hassan Al Thawadi, Secretary General, Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy; Dr. Bernard Harris, CEO, National Math and Science Initiative; Robbie Brozin, Founder, Nando's; Jo Ann Jenkins, CEO, AARP; Ginni Rometty, Former Chairman, President & CEO, IBM; Chip Lyons, President & CEO, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation; and, Dr. Bernd Montag, CEO, Siemens Healthineers.

View all confirmed speakers and the agenda.

* https://www.concordia.net/annualsummit/2022-annual-summit-speakers/

* https://www.concordia.net/annualsummit/2022-annual-summit-agenda/

"This month marks our 12th annual convening, and we're looking forward to bringing people together in person in New York City to prompt important conversations and, most importantly, find cross-sector solutions that go on to stand the test of time," commented Concordia's Co-Founders, Matthew Swift and Nicholas Logothetis.

Concordia's Programming Sponsors are:

Libra Group (Founding Sponsor); Microdose Psychedelic Insights (Principal Programming Sponsor); DP World, Faith & Media Initiative, Meta, Visa (Lead Programming Sponsors); APCO, ExxonMobil, Google, Hologic, Horizon Therapeutics, McKinsey, Merck, Microsoft, Salesforce, Siemens Healthineers, Tyson Foods, Veracity Worldwide, Verizon, Walmart (Patron Programming Sponsors); McDonald's, Rubicon (Sustainability Programming Sponsors).

Concordia's Programming Partners are: S

upreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy (Principal Programming Partner); AB InBev Foundation, CARE, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Aids Foundation, Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board, The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, The Mayor's Office for International Affairs, UNICEF USA, World Vision (Lead Programming Partners); AARP, Rockefeller Foundation, TECO, The Wilson Center, University of Virginia Darden School of Business Institute for Business in Society, U.S. Department of State Office of Global Partnerships, United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (Patron Programming Partners).

To attend the 2022 Concordia Annual Summit, purchase a $600 General Access Pass or sign up to Concordia's organizational membership program here - https://www.concordialive.com/22annual

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 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.

The 2022 Concordia Annual Summit is taking place next week, September 19-21, at the Sheraton New York Times Square during the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

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

First Lady Jill Biden to take the stage at the 2022 Concordia Annual Summit

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- The First Lady of the United States, Dr. Jill Biden, will speak on the Metropolitan Stage of the first day of the 2022 Concordia Annual Summit, September 19, at the Sheraton New York Times Square during the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Maintaining its position as the premier global affairs forum alongside the UN General Assembly, Concordia's 12th Annual Summit (register here to attend) will convene today's preeminent C-suite executives, politicians, nonprofit leaders, and entrepreneurs to explore the greatest challenges of our time through the lens of collaboration. From Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the resulting humanitarian crisis, to the critical role of the private sector in advancing environmental sustainability and technological innovation, Concordia's 12th Annual Summit will place the need for public-private partnership at its core.

Register here: https://www.concordialive.com/22annual

Dr. Biden previously spoke at the 2017 Concordia Annual Summit on the importance of building and sustaining strong healthcare infrastructure in driving global development, urging for dialogue across sectors, disciplines, and nations. Five years on, Dr. Biden will bring a unique perspective as First Lady of the United States.

"It is an honor to welcome back Dr. Biden to our Mainstage. A lifelong educator and public health advocate, and now as First Lady, Dr. Biden brings an invaluable perspective and will be an influential voice at this year's Annual Summit," commented Concordia's Co-Founders, Matthew Swift and Nicholas Logothetis. "This month marks our 12th annual convening, and we're looking forward to bringing people together in person to prompt important conversations and, most importantly, find cross-sector solutions that go on to stand the test of time."

The First Lady joins a powerful roster of leaders from across industries and sectors, including:

Eric Adams, Mayor, City of New York; Alison Moore, CEO, Comic Relief US; Anne M. Finucane, Chairman of the Board, Bank of America Europe;Dr. Olivia White, Director, Mckinsey Global Institute, Mckinsey & Company; Hon. Jeh Johnson, Former Secretary, U.S. Department Of Homeland Security; Rose Stuckey Kirk, Chief Corporate Social Responsibility Officer, Verizon; David Malpass, President, The World Bank Group; Professor Soumitra Dutta, Dean-Elect, Saïd Business School, University of Oxford; Goldie Hawn, Founder, MindUP | The Goldie Hawn Foundation; Dikembe Mutombo, Chairman & President, Dikembe Mutombo Foundation; Barbara Humpton, President & CEO, Siemens USA; Suzanne Clark, President & CEO, U.S. Chamber of Commerce; Hector Mujica, Head of Economy Opportunity, Google.org; Sofia Carson, Actress, Singer & UNICEF USA Ambassador; and, H.E. Dr. Lazarus Mccarthy Chakwera, President, Republic of Malawi.

View all confirmed speakers: https://www.concordia.net/annualsummit/2022-annual-summit-speakers/

To attend the 2022 Concordia Annual Summit, register here: https://www.concordialive.com/22annual

MULTIMEDIA:

LOGO Link for media: https://www.send2press.com/300dpi/22-0316-s2p-concordia-300dpi.jpg

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.

The First Lady of the United States, Dr. Jill Biden, will speak on the Metropolitan Stage of the first day of the 2022 Concordia Annual Summit, September 19, at the Sheraton New York Times Square during the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

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

VOSH Increases efforts to help employers prevent workplace fatalities

RICHMOND, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Department of Labor and Industry's Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) program is enhancing its efforts to protect workers and reduce injuries, illnesses, and fatalities in the state after a sudden rise in workplace deaths.

These efforts will address hazardous conditions that workers continuously face every day. Through coordinated outreach, education efforts and on-site inspections, VOSH is determined to identify hazardous workplace conditions and hold industry employers accountable for providing a safe and healthful workplace free from injuries, illnesses, and fatalities.

So far in 2022, the agency has investigated 30 workplace fatalities, an alarming increase over years past. To help combat a further rise in these deaths, employers are encouraged to take advantage of the agency's free Consultation Services. These services are state/federally grant funded so there is no cost to the employer.

Employers who make use of these services can better understand and comply with the Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) standards. Consultation services can provide employers with the ability to identify and correct potential safety and health hazards in the workplace, reduce workplace injuries and illnesses, reduce worker's compensation costs, and strengthen your workplace safety and health program.

For more information, please visit https://www.doli.virginia.gov/ or call 1-804-371-2327.

The Department of Labor and Industry's Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) program is enhancing its efforts to protect workers and reduce injuries, illnesses, and fatalities in the state after a sudden rise in workplace deaths.

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

Thousands Expected to March on DeSantis This Weekend for Reproductive Rights

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Thousands of people this weekend are expected to March on Ron DeSantis, the Capitol and the Supreme Court of Florida, Bans Off Our Bodies Florida announced today. Fed up with the way that the Republican government is treating their rights, they are prepared to show the governor their displeasure with numbers.

What: Thousands to March on Governor's Mansion

When: August 27, 2022

"I think that the consistent insults that come from Tallahassee have worn down the patience of the people of Florida," Laura Lippo, one of the organizers said of the March, "and they are ready to show Ron that attacking our bodily autonomy is the last straw."

"Our main message is that he, and his fellow lawmakers, need to make a declaration, with actions to match, that they will support the people of this state under no uncertain terms by declining all legislation that prevents the right to choose." Laura concluded.

DeSantis has continued to uncharacteristically remain relatively quiet on the subject, only saying that he would, "work to expand pro-life protections." Most political scholars feel this is to avoid the election year controversy that largely favors the opposing view.

The peaceful protest on Saturday is pressuring the governor to make his stand.

"The constitution of Florida states, 'Every natural person has the right to be let alone and free from governmental intrusion into the person's private life'," Emmie Reed, another organizer of the March said, "what we are asking of Ron DeSantis is to enforce our Constitutional rights."

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=

Thousands of people this weekend are expected to March on Ron DeSantis, the Capitol and the Supreme Court of Florida, Bans Off Our Bodies Florida announced today. Fed up with the way that the Republican government is treating their rights, they are prepared to show the governor their displeasure with numbers.

AI-Based Transit Signal Prioritization Helps Buses in Silicon Valley Get Residents Living in Zero-Vehicle Households to Destinations Faster

SANTA CLARA, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The City/County Association of Governments of San Mateo County C/CAG) and the Intelligent Transit Signal Prioritization (iTSP) project partners have successfully completed a pilot project that demonstrated a positive impact on improved transit performance in East Palo Alto, Sustainable Silicon Valley (SSV) announced today.

* Without iTSP, buses stop at traffic signals 70% of the time.

* With iTSP deployed at key traffic intersections, buses spent less time idling and got riders to their destinations faster and more efficiently.

* Fact Sheet about the iTSP project - https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1-nIZmFkuuJ-Ow0W5MInB2zu4_eGYtu8l

With funding from C/CAG, Sustainable Silicon Valley (SSV) formed a coalition of public and private stakeholders including San Mateo County Transit District (SamTrans), the City of East Palo Alto and technology company LYT, to deliver intelligent transit priority along congested arteries in transit-dependent communities. The City of East Palo Alto is a place where such improvements are most needed and can potentially improve the quality of life for residents.

SSV successfully led the pilot project, creating a blueprint for future investments in regional bus systems. The SSV/ LYT team will present the project findings in a Special Presentation to the City of East Palo Alto City Council at the September 20th, 2022, City Council meeting.

The efficiency of local transit has a direct impact on communities such as East Palo Alto which is designated as an Equity Priority Community by the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC). This designation is in part due to the number of Zero-Vehicle Households, meaning households that do not own a personal vehicle making it a challenge to get to work, school, etc. In East Palo Atlo, 9% of households do not have a vehicle compared to 6% countywide in San Mateo.

For the pilot project, the coalition deployed LYT's Artificial Intelligence-powered Transit Signal Priority (TSP) technology, called LYT.transit, on a corridor consisting of four signalized intersections in East Palo Alto. This corridor is a subsection of SamTrans route 281 and includes the following intersections: University Ave. at Bay Rd., Runnymede St., Bell St., and Donohoe St.

The iTSP deployment on University Ave. yielded a significant positive impact on several key performance indicators:

* iTSP reduced northbound intersection delays by 45% and southbound intersection delays by 19%.

* These reductions translate to 18% and 7% reductions in travel time for northbound and southbound respectively.

Bringing cities, agencies and tech together around some of the big challenges facing under-represented communities is itself a powerful tool.

"SSV is recognized for creating unique partnerships and we are pleased to identify a solution for a systemic transit issue in East Palo Alto with LYT's innovative technology and introduce SamTrans to an AI-powered TSP solution that scales for wider deployment," said SSV Board Chair Andrew (Drew) Clark.

LYT is a cloud-based software platform that uses state-of-the-art connected vehicle and machine learning technologies to prioritize the flow of vehicles in a city and across a corridor. By optimizing public transport, emergency and other vehicles it enables shorter travel times, less congestion, improved air quality and more reliable mass transit.

To learn more about the iTSP project and SSV, contact Drew Clark at AirQuality@sustainablesv.org.

About Sustainable Silicon Valley (SSV):

Sustainable Silicon Valley ( https://www.sustainablesv.org/ ) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit "think and do tank" that has a well-deserved reputation for coalescing Silicon Valley residents, government, agencies, leading tech companies, and start-ups around tough sustainability issues such as equity, transit, decarbonization, building electrification and water reuse.

Twitter: @SustainableSV - https://twitter.com/SustainableSV

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sustainable-silicon-valley/

MULTIMEDIA:

PHOTO Link for Media: https://smctd.canto.com/v/SamTransMedia/album/V2LIS?viewIndex=0&display=fitView&column=image&id=f7224u8fr529t3176orqkb0t4b

Photo Caption: SamTrans buses get residents living in Zero-Vehicle households to their destinations faster and more efficiently using AI-based Transit Signal Prioritization through a project led by Sustainable Silicon Valley and a coalition of partners including C/CAG, City of East Palo Alto, and LYT. Photo courtesy of SamTrans.

RELATED LINKS:

https://lyt.ai/

https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1-nIZmFkuuJ-Ow0W5MInB2zu4_eGYtu8l

https://www.samtrans.com/transit-signal-priority-projects

The City/County Association of Governments of San Mateo County C/CAG) and the Intelligent Transit Signal Prioritization (iTSP) project partners have successfully completed a pilot project that demonstrated a positive impact on improved transit performance in East Palo Alto, Sustainable Silicon Valley (SSV) announced today.

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

RMA Hired by Haines City for CRA Professional Consulting Services

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The award-winning economic development firm, RMA (rma.us.com), is proud to announce the firm has been hired by Haines City, Florida for professional consulting services to help execute the CRA 5-Year Strategic Implementation and Financing Plan. The plan will focus on key areas of the CRA, including Downtown, the Lake Eva Community Center and redevelopment within the East and Oakland Neighborhoods.

"We are honored to be working with the leadership of Haines City," said Allison Justice, RMA Senior Associate. "Our team will be utilizing the current redevelopment plans to focus on several target projects within the CRA to enhance the tax base and quality of life in the city."

Located in Polk County, in the heart of the state, Haines City is twenty-five miles inland from the Tampa Bay area and is a popular destination for both family and retirement residences.

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.

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 the firm has been hired by Haines City, Florida for professional consulting services to help execute the CRA 5-Year Strategic Implementation and Financing Plan. The plan will focus on key areas of the CRA, including Downtown, the Lake Eva Community Center and redevelopment within the East and Oakland Neighborhoods.

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

LA Metro Partners with Strive Well-Being for Innovative Transit Ambassador Program as Strategy to Improve Customer Experiences, Increase Ridership and Reinforce Public Safety

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) approved a bold initiative to pioneer a multi-year transit ambassador program throughout its bus and rail system. Metro is contracting with Strive, a reputable and experienced wellness and community health partner, to implement and manage a diverse team of transit ambassadors.

Strive will work collaboratively with local community-based organizations to offer a trauma-informed and rider assistance solution. The program is part of Metro's plan to bring non-law enforcement representatives to improve the customer experience, reinforce public safety, and increase ridership on its transit system.

This program is the first of its kind in the region, and will employ 300+ ambassadors from diverse L.A. County neighborhoods. Strive will provide ambassadors trained in unconscious bias identification, trauma-informed response, de-escalation, cultural/situational awareness, customer service, disability awareness, and public safety.

Friendly ambassadors will provide a high-quality customer service experience and orient passengers with general transit information such as directing customers and paying for fares. They will also work closely with community-based crisis intervention teams and be equipped to call dedicated personnel within Metro's public safety ecosystem.

"Our team is very excited to support the Los Angeles community with this innovative and forward-thinking initiative," said Amit Sangani, Strive Well-Being Inc. President. "We look forward to delivering a 'care-first' approach while improving the overall customer experience and reinforcing safety for public transportation in the region."

"Our top priority is to improve the customer experience- including making sure our riders feel safe," said Stephanie Wiggins, Metro CEO. "In the coming months, we expect customers will see a noticeable difference with our transit ambassadors in place. Once they deploy, transit ambassadors will greet riders and help our customers have positive interactions with our system.

"Ambassadors will also work closely with community-based crisis intervention teams and be able to call dedicated safety personnel when needed quickly. Thank you to the Metro Board of Directors for approving this new program; I look forward to its full deployment."

About Strive:

Strive Well-Being Inc. (Strive) is an authority in workplace wellness, community health, and outreach services. For 14+ years, Strive has supported every industry sector in the private and government segments. Headquartered in San Diego, California, with 200+ employees, Strive manages large and reputable client programs nationwide.

Learn more at: https://strive2bfit.com/

The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) approved a bold initiative to pioneer a multi-year transit ambassador program throughout its bus and rail system. Metro is contracting with Strive, a reputable and experienced wellness and community health partner, to implement and manage a diverse team of transit ambassadors.

Related link: https://strive2bfit.com/