Category Archives: Government

NYC Mayoral Candidate Cleopatra Fitzgerald Says ‘No One Is Above The Law’

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- NYC Mayoral Candidate Cleopatra Fitzgerald says: "No One Is Above The Law." Lady Cleopatra asks: Courts, Judges, Attorneys or others in higher office to please put attention to the issues that need justifiable laws or alterations as history and the present shows there are tyrannical laws bringing about disruption and decline whereas prosperous laws deliver harmony and order.

The laws of each country, region generally are composed of tradition, religion, culture, norms, values, administration, party beliefs, superstition, oppression, nationalism amongst others.

There are specific issues that resonate globally in particular: poverty, crime, education, health, homelessness, corruption, environment, equality, discrimination and countless more. For these reasons my intention solely is to voice the deficiencies (broken systems) that so many people are clamoring to repair.

It is a plea to those in office to construct laws (if they may) to preserve with their good judgment not wickedness, a healthy way in every aspect to affirm the virtuous norms of righteous demeanor and decorum.

Below is a list of numerous fallible broken systems and their possible solutions according to Fitzgerald. The list extends depending on each country, region and their necessities.

Madam Cleopatra on each topic declares:

Justice: It should never be personal with ill feelings, not for his/her interest or bias, or siding with a predilection; it is on the grounds of truth and seeing evidence where the truth speaks of liberty and not persecuting the innocent victims.

Teachers and education: A sincere confidential survey with non-identifiable bar codes or numbers to assess progress in teaching, no bullying amongst teachers and students (no peer pressure), teachers should neither directly nor indirectly harass students or mal-influence their reputation, no unwanted advances, no misguided content of books intended to talk badly of a student that could lead to suicide, syllabus timely organized and no lies with what to study, no objectification and no repression of student where they are intimidated with silence and non-growth of mind, physical, emotional and spiritual. Surveillance cameras to record inside the veracity of incidents.

Police and other emergency workers, essential workers: Conflict resolution, cultural training, new techniques to apprehend criminals, do not treat them with disrespect and likewise not to treat civilians with unwarranted harshness.

Seniors, Disabled, LGBTQ, Racial groups and Children: To be given aid against assault and abuse considering that they are susceptible to mistreatment. For the perpetrators to face justice and given courses on civility and awareness, safer streets and accessibility.

Poverty, Homelesness: Research each country, region and the factors leading to it. Philanthropists and the wealthy can unite in the efforts to reduce these issues. What equal opportunities are being denied by whom, what policies, what is lacking. Sometimes social workers violate their ethics code by siding with homeless and criminals.

Corruption: The cost of corruption is trillions and it wrecks the economy. Watchdogs, ethics commissions, human rights organizations, whistleblowers, investigative journalists, The FBI's International Corruption Unit (ICU), Global Anti-Corruption Consortium, and others have exposed the havoc and lack of proper laws to rectify this serious problem.

Crimes: The day by day variations of crimes is shameful, it exhibits the inadequacy of laws, responsible surveillance, education, distribution of resources to help people out of crime and poverty stricken communities.

Religion: Persons internationally come from an assortment of cultures, races and religions. Nonetheless, religious places of worship should not be subject to animosity, gossip, harassment, fraud, embezzlement, physical and mental abuse. Places of worship are to peacefully congregate.

Teenagers, Roommates: Teenagers should be taught to live conscientiously and if they become roommates to live without breaking laws of etiquette, no stealing, loud parties, intimate violence, drugs, not making it miserable for their roommates by participating in activities that would be injurious to the other tenants.

Parents: Tell kids not to trust strangers, educate them with good judgment.

Transparency and accountability: What good are if all laws are made and the persons enforcing them bend them and circumvent them pursuant to their selfish needs? There should be persons overseeing each sector, department, and government agency.

Royalty and those in office: No one should be above the law, they should not be immune from criminal, human rights abuses and other offenses regardless of monetary or heritage. No attacking of innocent citizens or others.

Immigrants: The distinct types of immigrants come to each country for special causes. Immigrants and their children, babies should not be harmed, harassed and left in danger. It is a humanitarian disaster. That crisis needs a lot of organizations and spaces to not treat immigrants as stray animals in cages.

Reforms: By paying attention to the populace and their troubles the policies, laws, can change or create a new preferably to continue with the same inoperative manners.

Foreign, National affairs: No xenophobia, no bias, no ambiguity

These topics or just a few of the many more that will be gradually discussed Ms.Fitzgerald says as this campaign season ends she is running to make aware the causes that matter. She will keep you the public updated with anything coming.

"Paid For By Cleopatra Fitzgerald For The Five Boroughs"

For more information visit https://cleopatrafitzgeraldforthefiveboroughs.us/ or https://twitter.com/CleopatraFitz05

NYC Mayoral Candidate Cleopatra Fitzgerald says: "No One Is Above The Law." Lady Cleopatra asks: Courts, Judges, Attorneys or others in higher office to please put attention to the issues that need justifiable laws or alterations as history and the present shows there are tyrannical laws bringing about disruption and decline whereas prosperous laws deliver harmony and order.

As City Runoffs Loom, Georgia Non-Profit Proclaims November ‘No More Runoffs Month’

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Georgia voters head to the polls, and some cities may need runoff elections this month. To educate citizens about alternatives to this system, Better Ballot Georgia, Inc (BBGa), an all-volunteer, Georgia non-profit proclaims November to be "No More Runoffs Month."

Across the state of Georgia, voters are going to the polls for local elections, but many of them will need to go a second time this month. Some local elections have multiple candidates - including the City of Atlanta, South Fulton, Ball Ground, Smyrna, and Peachtree City - and are likely to need a runoff on Nov. 30. While runoffs ensure that the winning candidate has more than 50% of the vote, they cost significant additional taxpayer money and voter time and hassle.

"All this time, effort, and expense is unnecessary," states Shai Robkin, President of Better Ballot Georgia, Inc (BBGa). "Instant runoff voting (IRV), also called ranked choice voting, is a simple and proven alternative. BBGa proclaimed November 'No More Runoffs' month to spread the word about this solution."

IRV has been used in elections around the world for over a hundred years and has been adopted by states, cities and counties across America, from Maine to Alaska. In Georgia, IRV was recently implemented for overseas and military voters. The momentum for IRV is driven by the desire to promote fair and open competition that offers voters more choices, reduce the hyper partisanship that afflicts our political institutions, and deliver government that works on behalf of the majority of the country's citizens.

"When I tell people about IRV, they usually say that it just sounds like common sense," shares Robkin.

Georgia citizens can register their support for IRV by signing the petition at https://www.betterballotgeorgia.org/petition.

Learn how IRV could have impacted the upcoming municipal elections, including the race for the Mayor of Atlanta, at BBGa's monthly meeting on November 18.

Register at https://www.BetterBallotGeorgia.org/no_more_runoffs_month or vote in the poll yourself at https://www.betterballotgeorgia.org/atlanta_mayor_poll

About Better Ballot Georgia:

Better Ballot Georgia, Inc (BBGa) is an all-volunteer, 501c3 non-profit organization promoting "common sense solutions for a healthy democracy." BBGa believes that the first step to elections that benefit all citizens is instant runoff voting, also called ranked choice voting. BBGa celebrates its 1-year anniversary this November. Visit https://www.betterballotgeorgia.org/ for more information.

Follow on social:

- https://www.facebook.com/BetterBallotGA/

- https://twitter.com/BetterBallotGa

Georgia voters head to the polls, and some cities may need runoff elections this month. To educate citizens about alternatives to this system, Better Ballot Georgia, Inc (BBGa), an all-volunteer, Georgia non-profit proclaims November to be "No More Runoffs Month."

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

Sam Stiele recently announced formulation of Raspberry Fund Scholarship

HOPKINS, Minn. /ScoopCloud/ -- According to Citizens 4 Stiele, Sam Stiele recently announced formulation of Raspberry Fund Scholarship. Mentoring is one of the most important actions we can take to support a strong city for years to come. Throughout my campaign, I have shared that a focus during my mayoral term will be mentoring others to lead in the future.

Why the Raspberry Fund

Mentoring is one of the most important actions we can take to support a strong city for years to come.

Throughout my campaign, I have shared that a focus during my mayoral term will be mentoring others to lead in the future.

Alex Fisher is transforming Community Education

I had the opportunity to listen to a presentation from Alex Fisher at Hopkins Rotary. Mr. Fisher is the Director of Community Education for Hopkins School District. Listening to him speak about the about his vision for more Civic Programs, specifically education geared toward the young adults in our community, has been inspiring to me. Forwarding thinking is part of how you create excitement to mentor future leaders. Mr. Fisher has mastered creating excitement.

Turning Words into Action

Today I am proud to announce that I will use any funds generated from the office of Hopkins Mayor, typically going to the mayor themself, plus some personal funds, to create a Raspberry Scholarship Fund. Funds will be donated for the lifetime of my service to the Hopkins Community.

I have already connected with Mr. Fisher and this Scholarship will be used to help low-income families pay for childcare costs and to participate in the Civics Enrichment camps and classes he plans to start.

As I have previously shared, my goal is to give as many people access to participate in local government as possible. More participation makes us stronger. I look forward to being able to mentor those in Mr. Fisher's program and see this partnership create new strong civic leaders for Hopkins.

Connecting with Community

I have already started connecting with local banks & community organizations to expand the fund beyond just myself. We are lucky here in the city of Hopkins, MN to have a strong sense of civic responsibility.

I am dedicated to not only showing up, but giving back.

I was taught that those who have the ability have the responsibility and I plan to live up to my responsibility in this community.

Learn more at: http://www.stieleformayor.com/

Prepared and paid for by Citizens for Stiele
1010 Mainstreet #221b, Hopkins MN, 55343

MEDIA CONTACT
Sam Stiele
sam@stieleformayor.com
(952) 208-4995

According to Citizens 4 Stiele, Sam Stiele recently announced formulation of Raspberry Fund Scholarship. Mentoring is one of the most important actions we can take to support a strong city for years to come. Throughout my campaign, I have shared that a focus during my mayoral term will be mentoring others to lead in the future.

Related link: http://www.stieleformayor.com/

Candidate Cleopatra Fitzgerald on the Trending Topic of National and International Security

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- According to New York City's Mayoral candidate, Cleopatra Fitzgerald, "National and international security are indispensable for the safety of citizens, tourists, immigrants and residents," and she's bringing some injustices to light. She knows that creating agencies, departments, sectors, industries and infrastructures are global governments' approach to developing coordination, but they don't always work.

"There are inadequacies with laws and they're failing so many. For example, inadequacies are seen in ever-present issues such as homelessness, poverty, civil unrest, wars and cyber and transnational crime. We need new laws and proper enforcement," she says.

Fitzgerald believes that a country's reputation is damaged when the incompetence, recklessness, malice, and inability to perform well only serves to hurt humankind.

"Each country/region defends not only its jurisdiction, but its culture, history, tradition, religion and governance," she says.

And while she knows there are shared country alliances of varied types including protection, there are also sad facts that exhibit corruption, putting countries at risk.

"This happens through coercion, bribery, illegal dealings and the refusal to enter into agreements unless participation in illicit money flow occurs," she says. "As backroom deals are made, some illegally benefit while others are harmed. Articles display how human rights' organizations, protestors, Interpol, international court, ethics commissions, investigative journalists have found truths and justice."

Cleopatra shared her views with "Total Prestige" Magazine. Explaining that when rulers, politicians, countries, regions, etc. use their power to place innocent individuals in concentration camps, provide false medical misdiagnoses and conduct surveillance to ostracize groups, individuals, races, religion, tradition and social norms, it denies citizens freedom of speech and human rights.

Global problems such as school failures, pandemics, suicide, discrimination and governmental deficits all demonstrates taxpayers are wasting their money in useless programs instead of in proper usage.

"There's a vicious cycle of class disparity. The affluent often want to displace the poor from their dwellings and the villainous criminals blame normal residents. It's the old versus the new generation with dissimilar upbringings and perspectives," she says. "Each social class has specific wrongs and people need to voice their concerns to be free from abuse."

LEARN MORE:

https://cleopatrafitzgeraldforthefiveboroughs.us/

https://twitter.com/cleopatrafitz05?lang

https://www.amnesty.org/en/countries/

MULTMEDIA:

Photo: https://www.send2press.com/300dpi/21-1019s2p-cleopatra-300dpi.jpg

Caption: Cleopatra Fitzgerald

MEDIA CONTACT:

Cleopatra Fitzgerald

of Cleopatra Fitzgerald For The Five Boroughs

+1-347-899-5460

welcometothe5boroughs@cleopatrafitzgeraldforthefiveboroughs.us

Paid for by Cleopatra Fitzgerald For The Five Boroughs

According to New York City's Mayoral candidate, Cleopatra Fitzgerald, "National and international security are indispensable for the safety of citizens, tourists, immigrants and residents," and she's bringing some injustices to light. She knows that creating agencies, departments, sectors, industries and infrastructures are global governments' approach to developing coordination, but they don't always work.

Nate Morris Endows Fellowship at George Washington University

WASHINGTON, D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Center for the Study of the Presidency and Congress (CSPC) is proud to announce The Nate Morris Fellowship at George Washington University, the third endowed Presidential Fellowship launched in collaboration with Morris, an alumnus of the Presidential Fellows program.

Each of the fellowships are being funded by the Morris Foundation. Other Nate Morris Fellowships have been established at the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs and the University of Kentucky's Gatton College of Business and Economics. All three provide leadership development opportunities for students at each institution of higher education.

The Center for the Study of the Presidency and Congress created the Presidential Fellows Program in 1970 to inspire higher education students to become the public servants that would guide our nation's future. The Presidential Fellows program provides top collegiate students with a year-long opportunity to study the U.S. presidency, the public policymaking process, and our president's relationships with Congress, the media, and the American public. Former NATO Ambassador David Abshire created the modern iteration of the center.

"We are delighted to launch our third Presidential Fellowship in partnership with Nate and the Morris Foundation. Together, these contributions represent some of the most significant investments in the Presidential Fellows program in its more than 50-year history. We thank Nate for his continued support and commitment to developing the next generation of public service leaders," said CSPC President & CEO, former Representative Glenn Nye.

Morris is a member of the Board of Trustees of the Center for the Study of the Presidency and Congress.

Morris, of Lexington, Kentucky, is the founder and CEO of Rubicon, a widely acclaimed software and technology company setting a new industry standard and dubbed "America's technology company" operating in the waste and recycling industry. Morris is a graduate of George Washington, and he recently attended George Washington's bicentennial celebration, where he was recognized as one of the university's monumental alumni alongside current United States Senators Tammy Duckworth, Mark Warner, and Elizabeth Warren. Others so honored included former United States Secretary of State Colin Powell, former United States Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, and former United States House Majority Leader Eric Cantor.

"Professors like me take pride when students like Nate Morris grow up into great Americans," said former George Washington University President Stephen J. Trachtenberg. "They remind us what we were thinking when we became teachers and that reminds us what academic life is at its best."

Morris came to George Washington University as a Scottish Rite Scholar. He was also selected as a member of the Watergate 723 living and learning community to study the Watergate era and its impact on American politics. He was elected Phi Beta Kappa. Morris was also part of the historic Presidential Online Town Hall with Bill Clinton held on George Washington's campus while he was a student, the first-ever engagement between an American President and the public through the internet.

While a full-time student, Morris worked in the United States House of Representatives and Senate, the United States Department of Labor, and the White House. In addition, he worked on several Federal and State campaigns.

"I believe that developing leadership opportunities through this fellowship program is critical to America's continued leadership globally," said Morris. "I am grateful to the Center for the Study of the Presidency and Congress for their vision in establishing this initiative."

About Nate Morris

Nate Morris is the chairman and founder of Lexington, Kentucky-based Morris Industries, and its signature asset, Rubicon, a widely acclaimed software company focused on waste and recycling. Morris, a ninth-generation Kentuckian born in Lexington and raised by a single mother in a union household, attended public schools and was the first Kentuckian to be named to Fortune Magazine's 40 Under 40 list, and to be recognized as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum. He is also the youngest inductee ever to the Kentucky Entrepreneur Hall of Fame. Morris is a senior advisor to the Atlantic Council's Scowcroft Center for Security, a member of Business Executives for National Security (BENS), a member of Phi Beta Kappa, a member of the Trilateral Commission, and a Fulbright Specialist Scholar.

About Rubicon

Rubicon is a Lexington, Kentucky based software platform that provides smart waste and recycling solutions for businesses and governments worldwide. Using technology to drive environmental innovation, the company helps turn businesses into more sustainable enterprises, and neighborhoods into greener and smarter places to live and work. Rubicon's mission is to end waste. It helps its partners find economic value in their waste streams and confidently execute on their sustainability goals. Learn more at https://www.rubicon.com/.

About the Center for the Study of the Presidency and Congress

The Center for the Study of the Presidency & Congress (CSPC) is a non-profit, non-partisan think tank focused on understanding past lessons of Presidential and Congressional leadership; tackling today's strategic policy challenges; and educating future generations of leaders. For more information on CSPC, visit https://www.thepresidency.org/ or follow CSPC on Twitter or LinkedIn.

The Center for the Study of the Presidency and Congress (CSPC) is proud to announce The Nate Morris Fellowship at George Washington University, the third endowed Presidential Fellowship launched in collaboration with Morris, an alumnus of the Presidential Fellows program.

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

Nate Morris Endows Fellowship at Princeton University

WASHINGTON, D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Center for the Study of the Presidency and Congress is pleased to announce the creation of the Nate Morris Fellowship at the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs, through a gift of the Morris Foundation. This gift is the second Presidential Fellowship endowed by Mr. Morris, a member of the Board of Trustees of the Center for the Study of the Presidency and Congress, joining the Nate Morris Fellowship at the University of Kentucky's Gatton College of Business and Economics, and creates a new opportunity for graduate students at Princeton.

While a fellow, Morris's fellowship advisor was the former United States Congressman and then faculty member the Honorable James A. Leach ('64) who was the John L. Weinberg/Goldman Sachs and Co. Visiting Professor of Public and International Affairs and served as a member of Princeton's Board of Trustees from 2002 to 2006.

This fellowship will expand the Fellows Program to include a participant from the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs, where Mr. Morris was selected to receive the fellowship at the Center for Study of Presidency and Congress during 2008-2009 academic term. The fellowship is specifically for graduate students at SPIA and the second fellowship for Princeton Students at CSPC which includes The Gerald L. Parsky Fellowship for undergraduate students, created for the former Princeton Trustee (1981 - 1991) and former member of the advisory council of the School of Public and International Affairs, Gerald L. Parsky ('64).

The Center for the Study of the Presidency and Congress created the Presidential Fellows Program in 1970 to inspire higher education students to become the public servants that would guide our nation's future. The Presidential Fellows program provides top collegiate students with a year-long opportunity to study the U.S. presidency, the public policymaking process, and our president's relationships with Congress, the media, and the American public. The modern iteration of the center was created by former NATO Ambassador David Abshire.

"I am honored to be able to provide the CSPC Presidential Fellowship for SPIA graduate students for years to come," said Nate Morris, Founder & CEO of Rubicon. "This experience had a transformational effect on my life and my role as a social entrepreneur."

Participating Fellows hail from leading American and international colleges and universities, including Harvard, MIT, Stanford, Columbia, and the University of Kentucky. Since its inception, the Fellows Program has developed leadership skills in more than 1,500 students who have gone on to work as elected officials, Congressional and White House staff, award-winning journalists, CEOs of major corporations, and military leaders. Notable alumni of the Presidential Fellows program include Good Morning America Anchor George Stephanopoulos, North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, and Congressman Josh Harder from California's 10th District.

"We're excited to expand our Fellows Program to include a graduate student from Princeton University. We thank Nate for his leadership as well as the example he provides as an alumnus giving back to this program," said CSPC President & CEO, former Representative Glenn Nye.

Nate Morris of Lexington, Kentucky, is the Founder & CEO of Rubicon. Rubicon is a technology company born in the waste and recycling industry that powers a digital marketplace, provides a suite of SaaS products for waste, recycling, and smart city solutions, and collects and analyzes data for businesses and governments worldwide. Rubicon was named in 2021 one of the 100 most innovative companies by Fast Company. Morris is an alumnus of the CSPC Presidential Fellows Program, having been named a Fellow during his graduate studies at Princeton University in the 2008-09 academic year.

About Nate Morris

Nate Morris is the chairman and founder of Lexington, Kentucky-based Morris Industries, and its signature asset, Rubicon, a widely acclaimed software company focused on waste and recycling. Morris, a ninth-generation Kentuckian born in Lexington and raised by a single mother in a union household, attended public schools and was the first Kentuckian to be named to Fortune Magazine's 40 Under 40 list and to be recognized as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum. He is also the youngest inductee ever to the Kentucky Entrepreneur Hall of Fame. Morris is a senior advisor to the Atlantic Council's Scowcroft Center for Security, a member of Business Executives for National Security (BENS), a member of Phi Beta Kappa, a member of the Trilateral Commission, and a Fulbright Specialist Scholar.

About Rubicon

Rubicon is a Lexington, Kentucky based software platform that provides smart waste and recycling solutions for businesses and governments worldwide. Using technology to drive environmental innovation, the company helps turn businesses into more sustainable enterprises, and neighborhoods into greener and smarter places to live and work. Rubicon's mission is to end waste. It helps its partners find economic value in their waste streams and confidently execute on their sustainability goals. Rubicon is one of the first and largest certified B-corporations in the world. Learn more at https://www.rubicon.com/.

About the Center for the Study of the Presidency and Congress

The Center for the Study of the Presidency & Congress (CSPC) is a non-profit, non-partisan think tank focused on understanding past lessons of Presidential and Congressional leadership; tackling today's strategic policy challenges; and educating future generations of leaders.

For more information on CSPC, visit https://www.thepresidency.org/ or follow CSPC on Twitter or LinkedIn.

The Center for the Study of the Presidency and Congress is pleased to announce the creation of the Nate Morris Fellowship at the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs, through a gift of the Morris Foundation. This gift is the second Presidential Fellowship endowed by Mr. Morris, a member of the Board of Trustees of the Center for the Study of the Presidency and Congress.

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

Lt Col Steven Fowler, Decorated Combat Veteran, Announces Republican Candidacy in TX-28

UNIVERSAL CITY, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- I am excited to announce my candidacy as a Republican in the 28th U.S. Congressional District of Texas. I'm running for Congress because I'm sick of illegal immigrants pouring into our country. I'm tired of the caravans swarming our border. I don't like illegal alien criminals putting my family or yours, at risk. President Biden, Nancy Pelosi, and the radical Democrats are doing nothing to stop it. In fact, they are encouraging it. If we don't stop the flow immediately, our country will never be the same. We cannot just sit back and let it happen. We must fight like hell to stop it.

For over 17 years, I have served this nation as an officer in the U.S. Air Force. I'm a small business owner, an Aggie, a Longhorn, and a third generation Texan. I'm a husband and Dad to three young daughters.

In the Air Force, I flew the most capable bomber aircraft in the world, the B-1B Lancer. I deployed twice to the Middle East where I flew 73 combat missions and 891 combat hours over Afghanistan. I fought like hell against the Taliban and Al-Qaeda. The U.S. government entrusted me with a $283 million aircraft and authorized me to make life and death decisions against these terrorists.

I know how to fight, and I know how to lead. That is exactly what I'll do in this campaign and when I get to Congress. Jessica Cisneros, also known as the AOC of Texas, is running in the Democrat primary in TX-28. She lost the Democrat primary in 2020 by just a few percentage points and is back again in 2022 with more experience and a significant amount of money. She is very likely to win in the primary and get elected to Congress -- unless a Republican can beat her.

Ms. Cisneros is sponsored by the extreme left group, Justice Democrats. This is the same organization that sponsored AOC before her victory. Cisneros has been endorsed by AOC and wants to bring these same extreme left policies to Texas. Cisneros supports open borders and wants to take jobs away from the oil and gas industry, which provide high-paying jobs to families in TX-28 and are essential to the Texas economy. The last thing the United States or South Texas needs is AOC 2.0 in Congress. I'm not going to let it happen. I gave up my active-duty military retirement, with just over three years left, to wage this fight.

There are very few districts in Congress that are truly competitive. Out of 38 districts in Texas, only two are competitive. The 28th district is one of them. This seat is winnable for Republicans, and I intend to win it. Families in South Texas are sick of the Biden immigration policies that put extreme strain on their communities. They are ready to elect a Representative that stands for border security, fights for their jobs, their families, and their security. They are ready to get rid of weak career politicians. They don't want AOC 2.0 to represent them. They are ready to elect a fighter. Now is the time. We can't wait. If we don't act now, we risk losing our country as we know it, forever. Are you ready to fight like hell with me for President Trump's America First Agenda?

Sincerely,

Lt Col Steven Fowler

Candidate for Congress in TX-28

https://www.letsfightlikehell.com/

Lt Col Steven Fowler is a member of the Air Force Reserve Component. Use of his military rank, job titles, and photographs in uniform does not imply endorsement by the Department of the Air Force, the Air Force Reserve, the National Guard, or the Department of Defense.

Paid for by Fowler for Texas, 508 Pat Booker Rd #6090, Universal City, TX 78148

I am excited to announce my candidacy as a Republican in the 28th U.S. Congressional District of Texas. I'm running for Congress because I'm sick of illegal immigrants pouring into our country. I'm tired of the caravans swarming our border. I don't like illegal alien criminals putting my family or yours, at risk.

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

1st Edge Wins Advanced Technology International (ATI) OTA Contract to Develop Artificial Intelligence (AI) Solutions for US Army

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. /ScoopCloud/ -- 1st Edge, a leader in designing pragmatic solutions using Artificial Intelligence and new technologies, announced the win of a $46M Other Transaction Authority (OTA) contract to develop Artificial Intelligence solutions for the US Army. The contract continues an effort named Pragmatic Artificial Intelligence and New Technology (PAINT).

The Pragmatic AI and New Technology (PAINT) approach applies the science of AI and other new technologies to near-term, engineering solutions for missile defense. By using the PAINT approach, users are able to capture subject matter expertise in automated software systems, allowing a broader set of requirements to be satisfied through computer analysis. These automated systems can process tremendous amounts of data in a fraction of the time compared to current manual approaches.

"Advancements of AI in the laboratory are not translating to operational solutions fast enough to meet evolving threats.," states Tim McCarter, President of 1st Edge. "Integrating AI into current and future DoD programs is a major initiative for 1st Edge. Our mission is to close the gap and get sophisticated, innovative technology in the fight to augment the warfighter and support analysts."

Through this contract, 1st Edge will develop prototype software to streamline missile defense programs using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) techniques. The three-year contract will be managed through the Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) Aviation and Missile Center (AvMC).

"1st Edge has demonstrated the success of the PAINT concept which began as a Phase I SBIR, gained traction through a Phase II effort and resonated with a breadth of customers," said Nathan Claburn, Vice President of 1st Edge. "Now with additional funding 1st Edge will advance pragmatic solutions for multiple missile defense programs."

About 1st Edge LLC

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

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

MEDIA CONTACT:
Jana Conover
info@1st-edge.com

RELATED LINKS:

https://www.army.mil/devcom

https://www.avmc.army.mil/

1st Edge, a leader in designing pragmatic solutions using Artificial Intelligence and new technologies, announced the win of a $46M Other Transaction Authority (OTA) contract to develop Artificial Intelligence solutions for the US Army. The contract continues an effort named Pragmatic Artificial Intelligence and New Technology (PAINT).

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

Sam Stiele announces ‘We Lean Local’ Platform

HOPKINS, Minn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Sam Stiele announces "We Lean Local" Platform. A lot of people talk about politics and reflect on what is happening nationally. Local government impacts our lives perhaps more than any other vote we cast. When you think about who is at the helm in local government those are the people planning future city needs.

Sometimes those needs are emergency services, engaging in discussions about schools, parks and developments as the community changes.

Over the last 60 years our family has seen this community go from "Cars & Bars" to a town with strong art connections, focus on health, sought after restaurants and commitment to quality of life for residents. Now, as I look to the future, I am excited about where we're headed, but we have a lot of heavy lifting to do.

My number one priority is to maintain the strong quality of life residents here in Hopkins love and deserve. We need to support our city services through proper planning. There is a short period of time to execute before rapid population growth and the light rail expansion.

In everything I do, my family does, we don't just look to national politics because what impacts us most in our daily lives is local. When running for elected office at any level, sometimes people want to know what party every candidate belongs to, but Hopkins runs non-partisan city elections. It isn't about a party it is about people. The people who live here, shop here, work here, own businesses here, go to school here.

When we're talking about what Hopkins needs, instead of asking what political party we belong to, let's talk about our community. Because ultimately, We Lean Local.

About Sam Stiele

Sam has been married to his wife, Kimberly Stiele, for 20 years as of October 6th. They have two kids, Oliver 13, and Caroline 9. They are proud to raise their kids, and their dogs (Jelly and Peanut Butter), here in Hopkins. It was Sam's father's dream to live in Hopkins, and Sam is happy to have been able to realize that dream with his own family. Sam is running for Mayor of Hopkins; election day is November 2, 2021.

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

Prepared and paid for by Citizens for Stiele

1010 Mainstreet #221b, Hopkins MN, 55343

MEDIA CONTACT

Sam Stiele

sam@stieleformayor.com

(952) 208-4995

Sam Stiele announces "We Lean Local" Platform. A lot of people talk about politics and reflect on what is happening nationally. Local government impacts our lives perhaps more than any other vote we cast. When you think about who is at the helm in local government those are the people planning future city needs.

Related link: http://www.stieleformayor.com/

AAPI Toastmaster to Host The 2021 Los Angeles Congress of Neighborhoods

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Asian American Toastmaster Judy Thang has been selected to host the opening session of the 2021 Los Angeles Congress of Neighborhoods. This year, the theme of the event will be "Leading Change Together," Toastmasters District 52 announced today.

"The opening session will be comprised of a keynote speaker Executive Director General Manager Capri Maddox- of the LA Civil Human Rights and Equity Department, Mayor Garcetti, the Board of Neighborhood Commissioners Representative, and the General Manager of the Department of Neighborhood Empowerment, Raquel Beltran," says Colette Amin, Co-Chair of the Production Committee of the 2021 Los Angeles Congress of Neighborhoods.

"Being part of Toastmasters has provided the space and support that I needed to become confident and driven, and to work on my own goals in life," says Toastmaster Judy Thang. "I've been fortunate to work with Toastmasters from all walks of life - and thrust into situations that nudge me out of my comfort zone such as the opportunity to host the opening session of the 2021 Los Angeles Congress of Neighborhoods."

The virtual congress has an expected attendance of 500-700 Angelenos. The goal is to bring together neighborhood council board members, committee members, stakeholders, and local communities from our 99 neighborhood councils for a day of learning, civic engagement, and inspiration.

2021 Los Angeles Congress of Neighborhoods

Date: September 25, 2021

Time: from 8 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.

Location: Online via Zoom

For more information please visit: https://www.neighborhoodcongress.la

About District 52

District 52 comprises more than 90 corporate and community Toastmasters clubs in Burbank, Glendale, Los Angeles, Santa Clarita, San Fernando Valley, Valencia, Calabazas, and Malibu.

To learn more about District 52 please visit: http://www.district52.org/

About Toastmasters International

Toastmasters International is a worldwide nonprofit educational organization that empowers individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders. Headquartered in Englewood, Colo., the organization's membership exceeds 300,000 in more than 15,800 clubs in 149 countries. Since 1924, Toastmasters International has helped people from diverse backgrounds become more confident speakers, communicators, and leaders. For information about local Toastmasters clubs, please visit http://www.toastmasters.org/. Follow @Toastmasters on Twitter.

Asian American Toastmaster Judy Thang has been selected to host the opening session of the 2021 Los Angeles Congress of Neighborhoods. This year, the theme of the event will be "Leading Change Together," Toastmasters District 52 announced today.

Related link: https://www.district52.org/

Compassion Prison Project and CA Surgeon General Dr. Nadine Burke-Harris Raise ACE Awareness in CA Prison

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Compassion Prison Project (CPP) piloted its innovative new series "Trauma Talks," an educational video program with accompanying workbook this week. CPP's mission is to create trauma-informed prisons and communities by bringing trauma awareness education and proven healing modalities to the men and women living and working in prison. Statistically, those involved in the prison system have some of the highest number of ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) in society.

As part of the "Trauma Talks" launch, on September 7th, 8th, and 9th 2021, CPP hosted an historic event at Valley State Prison (VSP) in California. Over a hundred men living at VSP shared their childhood trauma stories in Compassion Trauma Circles, joined by CPP Founder Fritzi Horstman, California Surgeon General Dr. Nadine Burke Harris and 17 volunteers. CPP and Ms. Horstman are best known for the short film Step Inside the Circle, which has reached over 3.5 million viewers with its unprecedented look at childhood trauma behind bars. Dr. Burke Harris's office has established the bold goal of reducing ACEs and toxic stress by 50 percent within one generation.

The VSP event activities included supportive open discussions, exercises, and lectures. Catalina Villegas, Anchor of Your Weekend on Spectrum News 1, was on-site to capture the event as it unfolded. In addition, CPP provided mentorship training to several incarcerated residents and a specially designed Correctional Officer presentation was also featured for 30+ Correctional Officers.

Every single resident at Valley State Prison (2,900 in total) received the first volume of the "Trauma Talks" workbook and began the curriculum, thanks to the generous donation by one of CPP's supporters. CPP is on track to establish several other pilot launches of "Trauma Talks" in the United States and around the world by the end of 2021, with the goal of having the entire series available in all prisons by 2023.

The outcome of this event is that Valley State Prison will be the first fully trauma-informed, trauma-responsive prison in the country. With the "Trauma Talks" pilot, CPP has opened the doors for important transformation in the United States Criminal Justice community. The positive impact this educational and emotionally supportive program will have on incarcerated citizens and their families is immeasurable.

"When I found out I was traumatized by my parents and my upbringing, it changed how I felt about myself," Fritzi Horstman reflected on her way back from Valley State Prison. "I want to share what I've learned and make sure every person living in prison understands the principles of trauma, brain science and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) so people can forgive themselves, make amends and begin the healing process, not only for themselves, but for their families and their communities."

For more information, please contact Melonie McCoy, Media and Communications Director at media@compassionprisonproject.org or visit https://compassionprisonproject.org/

MULTIMEDIA

IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0923s2p-Horstman-and-DrNBH-300dpi.jpg

Caption: Compassion Prison Project's Fritzi Horstman & California Surgeon General Dr. Nadine Burke-Harris

MEDIA CONTACT:

Compassion Prison Project

Melonie McCoy - Media and Communications Director

media@compassionprisonproject.org

425-628-4611

Compassion Prison Project (CPP) piloted its innovative new series "Trauma Talks," an educational video program with accompanying workbook this week. CPP's mission is to create trauma-informed prisons and communities by bringing trauma awareness education and proven healing modalities to the men and women living and working in prison.

Related link: https://compassionprisonproject.org/

ACNM Reaffirms Opposition to Legislative Threats to Abortion Care

SILVER SPRING, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) is committed to people having unfettered access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive health care services, including abortion care, that are readily available, affordable, and guided by objective evidence-based information. Given this position, ACNM is dismayed by the failure of the United States Supreme Court to block the implementation of Texas Senate Bill 8, legislation that allows for the ban of abortions (which would include cases of rape or incest) as early as six weeks into pregnancy.

This decision sets in motion a dangerous precedent of upending the protections afforded under Roe v. Wade by allowing the most restrictive abortion law to go into effect in the second largest state in the country.

ACNM opposes legislative threats to abortion care. ACNM President, Cathy Collins-Fulea states, "ACNM continues to stand by our position that as midwives, we trust our patients as the experts of their own well-being and support each person's right to self-determination, access to comprehensive health information, and active participation in all aspects of an individualized plan of care."

The ACNM Code of Ethics mandates that midwives engage in the process of non-coercive, evidence-based informed consent and shared decision-making. Therefore, we object to any legislation and/or regulation that interferes with the patient-provider relationship.

"ACNM is committed to individual patient autonomy across the spectrum of reproductive health, including abortion. This commitment includes advocating to keep abortion access unconditionally safe and legal for all people midwives serve, but especially for vulnerable populations with limited resources and unequal access to quality healthcare," stated ACNM CEO Katrina Holland.

American College of Nurse-Midwives actively stands together with our other colleagues in sexual and reproductive health care and social justice advocates as we voice our strong objection to the erosion of bodily autonomy and access to essential health care services, including abortion care.

About ACNM

With over 6,500 members, ACNM is the professional association that represents certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) and certified midwives (CMs) in the United States. ACNM promotes excellence in midwifery education, clinical practice, and research. With roots dating to 1929, our members are primary care providers for women throughout the lifespan, with a special emphasis on pregnancy, childbirth, and gynecologic and reproductive health. ACNM provides research, administers, and promotes continuing education programs, establishes education and clinical practice standards, and creates liaisons with state and federal agencies and members of Congress to increase the visibility and recognition of midwifery care.

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

American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) is committed to people having unfettered access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive health care services, including abortion care, that are readily available, affordable, and guided by objective evidence-based information. Given this position, ACNM is dismayed by the failure of the United States Supreme Court to block the implementation of Texas Senate Bill 8.

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

Nick Hess Announces Run for Oregon Governor

TIGARD, Ore. /ScoopCloud/ -- Nick Hess, local business owner and entrepreneur, announced today his candidacy for the Republican nomination as Oregon Governor for the 2022 election.

Mr. Hess is running as a moderate, fiscal conservative in hopes of bringing Oregonians together.

About Nick Hess

Nick Hess is an entrepreneur and business owner. He is a lifelong Oregonian. He grew up in Portland and graduated from Lincoln High School. At age 14, he started his first company--a residential IT business. With 21 years of real-world, business experience, Mr. Hess is well-versed in managing budgets, fostering relationships, and creating opportunities for growth.

Currently, he acts as CEO and owner of:

* SureTec IT (a cybersecurity and IT managed services provider located in Tigard, OR & Dayton, OH),

* SureTel (a nationwide VoIP telecommunications company),

* Cookin' Class ( a cooking class business he owns and operates with his wife, Christy, in Tigard, OR).

In addition, he is father to a 9-year-old son.

About Vote Hess Campaign

Nick Hess is running for all Oregonians stuck in the middle of the political divide. He is looking to give a voice to those who feel forgotten and left behind.

Mr. Hess's campaign is focused on common-sense solutions for Oregon. As a business owner, he is comfortable making tough decisions, negotiating, and finding common ground.

His campaign will center around 4 main principles:

* Transparency
o Building trust through transparency. Oregonians should be allowed access to budget information and data collected by state agencies.

* Voice
o Giving Oregonians a voice through the creation of the Oregon Ideas Portal (www.ideasoregon.com). Every Oregonian--regardless of party affiliation--can directly voice their ideas, opinions, and concerns. Creating real change begins with a conversation.

* Re-envision
o Establish accountability and realistic solutions to Oregon's drug and homelessness problem. Change the national image of Oregon and increase state tourism.
o Additionally, he wants to reinvigorate the police force by giving them the tools they need to operate effectively in 2022.

* Improve
o Modernize and future-proof both Oregon's digital and physical infrastructure by utilizing modern technology.

To learn more about Nick Hess visit https://votehess.com

-Logo: https://votehess.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/VoteHessLogo.png

-Nick photo: https://votehess.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Nick_Hess_Governor-scaled.jpg

PAID FOR BY HESS FOR OREGON

Nick Hess, local business owner and entrepreneur, announced today his candidacy for the Republican nomination as Oregon Governor for the 2022 election. Mr. Hess is running as a moderate, fiscal conservative in hopes of bringing Oregonians together.

Related link: https://votehess.com/

Southwest Airlines Adds Daily Austin Flight: Expanded Service at Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport to Begin in March

AMARILLO, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- Amarillo travelers will soon have extra options that feature the state capital as Southwest Airlines, in conjunction with Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport, has announced new daily non-stop service to Austin.

The new expanded service to Austin begins March 10, 2022 to Austin Bergstrom International Airport. On Sundays through Mondays, the Austin flight will depart Amarillo at 6:10 a.m. and arrive in Austin at 7:30 a.m. The return flight will depart Austin at 7:55 p.m. and arrive in Amarillo at 9:20 p.m. On Saturdays, the flight will depart Amarillo at 11:05 a.m. and arrive in Austin at 12:23 p.m. The return flight will depart Austin at 12:25 p.m. and arrive in Amarillo at 1:50 p.m.

In addition to the new Austin non-stop service, Southwest Airlines is adding a fourth daily non-stop flight from Amarillo to Dallas Love Field beginning March 10, 2022. This additional flight returns Southwest's number of non-stops to Dallas Love Field to pre-pandemic levels.

"This is exciting for Amarillo, and a reason for celebration as the travel, business and entertainment opportunities for the city and the Texas Panhandle continue to grow," said Amarillo Mayor Ginger Nelson. "As the Amarillo economy continues to expand, diversify and strengthen, we value working with partners like Southwest Airlines to expand their opportunities and service in Amarillo."

"I can't tell you how excited we are to not only get the daily direct flight back between Amarillo and Austin, but on a non-stop basis," said Amarillo Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Jason Harrison. "Austin is such a valuable destination, not only from a business standpoint and with our legislators convening there, but for personal travel into the heart of Texas and all that has to offer those from the Panhandle and the Tri-State area.

"Southwest Airlines continues to be an irreplaceable partner with our Taking Flight - Amarillo Initiative. We appreciate their continuing dedication in maintaining and returning flights to and from Amarillo back to pre-pandemic levels, and now beyond, with the new Austin service."

"We are looking forward to continuing to strengthen our intra-Texas routes, giving more Texans access to key destinations throughout the state and bringing more access to our growing network," said Dave Harvey, Vice President of Southwest Business for Southwest Airlines. "Whether traveling for business or leisure, the expanded service from Amarillo will allow travelers to more quickly reach the people and places important in their lives, while experiencing Southwest's famous hospitality."

Learn more about Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport: https://www.fly-ama.com/

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

Amarillo travelers will soon have extra options that feature the state capital as Southwest Airlines, in conjunction with Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport, has announced new daily non-stop service to Austin. The new expanded service to Austin begins March 10, 2022 to Austin Bergstrom International Airport.

Related link: https://www.fly-ama.com/

Malcolm-Jamal Warner Joins Exit 36 Slam Poetry Festival as Celebrity Judge

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Pompano Beach Arts is proud to announce that television icon Malcolm-Jamal Warner is joining the fourth annual "Exit 36 Slam Poetry Festival" as a celebrity judge. The famed star of "The Cosby Show" and current hit "The Resident" will also be performing his poetry at the festival and sharing thoughts about his career during an Artist Talk.

The three-day event attracts the premier spoken word artists in the country and will take place December 9-11, 2021 at the City's cultural venues. Event details and tickets are available at https://www.pompanobeacharts.org/exit36.

"We are honored that actor and poet Malcolm-Jamal Warner will be a judge at this year's festival. His participation will shine the national spotlight on an event that is growing in prestige every year," said Phyllis Korab, Director, Cultural Affair Department. "Warner stole our hearts as a lovable Huxtable kid in the 80s and is now gaining raves as Dr. Andre Jeremiah Austin on the hit show 'The Resident.' But many do not realize the acclaimed actor is also a leading voice in the spoken word realm."

Warner, who is a Grammy(R) Award-winner, has tackled many important issues with his spoken word performances including problems with the penal system and in 2020 he chronicled life as a black man with his film "Word Warriors III."

Warner has said, "Poetry had always been a huge part of my life. My father went to Lincoln University with Gil Scott-Heron and Brian Jackson, so I literally came out of the womb listening to Gil Scott-Heron. So, poetry's always been a huge part of the expression of self."

The Exit 36 Slam Poetry Festival was founded by Eccentrich, one of the top-ranking female poets in the country. She developed the platform to serve the community through educational, theatrical, and literary performances. The festival showcases local, regional, and nationally recognized poets, while educating and encouraging self-expression in local youth.

"Now more than ever, spoken word artists are shaping the cultural and social dialogue in our country," said Eccentrich. "This form of expression empowers those who have felt unheard, providing platform to address both deeply personal situations and larger global issues. We are excited to return for our fourth year, and we look forward working with a dynamic group of participants."

TICKET AND SCHEDULE INFORMATION:

Tickets are $10 a day or $25 for a festival pass, available at https://www.pompanobeacharts.org/exit36

* Thursday, December 9, 2021

Bailey Contemporary Arts Center

Artist Talk & Happy Hour 6p to 7p (In-person and virtually via zoom)

Prelim bout - 7p to 8p (In-person and virtually via zoom)

Artist Market & pop-up poetry - 8p to 9p

* Friday, December 10, 2021

Blanche Ely House Museum

Lunch Time Story Slam - 12p to 1p (In-person and virtually via zoom)

Pompano Beach Cultural Center

Artist Talk - 6p to 7p (In-person and virtually via zoom)

Prelim bout 7p to 8p (In-person and virtually via zoom)

Artist Market & Cyphers - 8p to 9p

* Saturday, December 11, 2021

Pompano Beach Cultural Center

Final Stage - 7p to 10p (In-person and virtually via zoom)

About the City of Pompano Beach Cultural Affairs Department

The mission of the Cultural Affairs Department is to provide cultural programming that includes visual arts, digital media, music, film, theater, dance and public art for the enjoyment and enrichment of residents and visitors to Pompano Beach, Broward County, and the greater South Florida area. The department programs and manages the City's premiere cultural arts venues including the Pompano Beach Cultural Center, Ali Cultural Arts Center, Bailey Contemporary Arts Center, and the Blanche Ely House Museum. The department also oversees the City's Public Art Program and the prestigious National Endowment for the Arts' Our Town grant awarded to the Pompano Beach Crossroads place-making arts initiative.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Kay Renz

Kay@KRPRMediaGroup.com

Pompano Beach Arts is proud to announce that television icon Malcolm-Jamal Warner is joining the fourth annual "Exit 36 Slam Poetry Festival" as a celebrity judge. The famed star of "The Cosby Show" and current hit "The Resident" will also be performing his poetry at the festival and sharing thoughts about his career during an Artist Talk.

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

2021 VOSH Voluntary Protection Programs

RICHMOND, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- Emerson Machine Automation Solution in Charlottesville, Virginia, has been reapproved as a Virginia STAR Worksite under the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry's Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP).

Emerson Machine Automation Solution is one of 36 current participants in the STAR program of public/private sector worksites to achieve and retain this recognition. Emerson employees design and build electronic control devices for a wide range of automating processes for paper mills, steel mills, power generation, mining, refining, large material handling, and propulsion of marine vessels. The Charlottesville facility was built in 1980 and operated by General Electric Company (GE) until Emerson Electric Company purchased the site in 2019. The main plant is comprised of 395,000 square feet. Currently, there are 326 full-time employees at this site with an average of 17 contract workers.

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/

Emerson Machine Automation Solution in Charlottesville, Virginia, has been reapproved as a Virginia STAR Worksite under the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry's Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP).

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

RMA Real Estate Services Brokers Sale of Pelican Harbor Marina for City of Palm Bay

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- RMA Real Estate Services, a division of the economic development firm RMA (www.rma.us.com), is proud to announce the successful sale of a prime commercial property on behalf of the City of Palm Bay. RMA's senior broker Bill Dehlinger, CCIM handled the transaction for the City, which resulted in Space Coast Marinas purchasing three parcels of land known as Pelican Harbor Marina for $1.7 million. The almost seven acres will be redeveloped to include a boat launch, public boardwalk, a marina, and restaurant.

"We are honored to have brokered this real estate transaction for the City of Palm Bay and the Bayfront Community Redevelopment Agency," said Bill Dehlinger. "The sale of this property will usher in the revitalization of Bayfront Village."

In 2015, Bayfront Community Redevelopment Agency (BCRA) applied for and won a Competitive Florida grant from the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity. The City used the grant to hire RMA to perform a scope of work that included market analysis, public input, and development of an economic development strategy and action plan. At that time, RMA found that Pelican Harbor Marina, with access to the Intracoastal Waterway and Indian River Lagoon, was a prime catalyst for future development of Bayfront Village.

"This is an exciting development project for the City," said Joan Junkala-Brown, Deputy City Manager. "The proposed development will add value to what currently exists and further create an environment for residents and visitors to gather, eat, shop, and listen to live music whether arriving by boat or vehicle."

"This project is a prime example of RMA's synergistic services at work," said Chris Brown, RMA Principal and Co-founder. "From vision to implementation, our team created the strategy for redevelopment and then secured the developer who will launch this catalytic project. We are very proud of our work with Palm Bay and look forward to the creation of a magnificent new waterfront village."

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."

Media Contact:
Kay Renz
Kay@KRPRMediagroup.com

RMA Real Estate Services, a division of the economic development firm RMA, is proud to announce the successful sale of a prime commercial property on behalf of the City of Palm Bay.

Related link: http://www.rma.us.com/

Sam Stiele recently announced his candidacy for the mayor of Hopkins, MN

HOPKINS, Minn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Citizens 4 Stiele announced today candidacy of Sam Stiele for mayor of Hopkins. "I didn't see a mayoral candidate that represented me," Stiele said in a statement. "We need someone who knows this town inside and out. Hopkins needs a leader who believes that progress is a balancing act, one who offers open communication. I will create an approachable government whose mission is to serve Hopkins and mentor future leaders."

The Stiele family has been a mainstay in Hopkins across four generations. Stiele's first job was sweeping the body shop floors alongside his father, uncles, siblings and cousins.

"I am so proud of this community and grateful to raise my kids here," Stiele said. "I can't think of a more humbling way to give back than to serve as mayor in this time of rapid growth and change for Hopkins."

Stiele is a two-term president of Hopkins Rotary Club, as well as having served on the Board of the Hopkins Historical Society. He currently serves as the chair of the Hopkins Planning and Zoning Commission. He started his civic journey by attending the Hopkins Citizen's Academy.

"There is not a better, more hands-on, engrossing way to understand the dynamics required to run a city, than to attend the Academy," Stiele said.

Stiele feels it is important to show up in the community in order to lead. According to Stiele, a mayor needs to understand the community's clubs, participate in events, volunteer in the community and patronize local businesses. He said he understands that local government requires a servant mentality and that you should always leave something better than you have found it.

We need to bring back more balance, while increasing transparency to bring more people into the process, Stiele said in a statement, adding "How do you educate the next generation of civic leaders if you aren't communicating with them?"

"You can find me on Mainstreet most days," Stiele says. That includes Saturday when he sits with his dad & drinks coffee.

According to Stiele, his family has passed down an important value to each generation, "you must give before you receive." His father, Ed Stiele, was the Raspberry Festival's 50th anniversary grand marshal, while Stiele has volunteered on JCI committees, at Resource West, the Elks and joined a local bowling league.

"I look forward to earning your vote to be Hopkins' next mayor this November, it will be my privilege to continue serving our great community."

Official candidate website (live on 8/30/21, if not sooner): http://www.stieleformayor.com/

Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stieleformayor

Prepared and paid for by Citizens 4 Stiele, 1010 Mainstreet #222b, Hopkins MN 55343.

MEDIA ONLY CONTACT:
Kimberly Stiele
Stieleformayor@gmail.com
952-208-4995

Citizens 4 Stiele announced today candidacy of Sam Stiele for mayor of Hopkins. "I didn't see a mayoral candidate that represented me," Stiele said in a statement. "We need someone who knows this town inside and out. Hopkins needs a leader who believes that progress is a balancing act, one who offers open communication."

Related link: http://www.stieleformayor.com/

Teamsters Local 396 Builds Momentum in Contract Campaign to Raise Wages and Working Conditions for Over 2,700 Sanitation Workers in Orange County

SANTA ANA, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- On Tuesday, August 17, 2021, the City of Santa Ana stood up for working people by rejecting the city staff recommendation to replace its unionized waste hauler with a non-union hauler with a track record of union busting, air pollution and paying near poverty wages, Teamsters Local 396 said today. Santa Ana residents are currently serviced by Waste Management, a unionized waste hauler that has serviced the city for over 30 years.

"The Santa Ana open bid process for residential waste services was important to protect consumer rates, hard-earned well-paid jobs, and opening up historically closed bidding processes," said Ron Herrera, Secretary - Treasurer of Teamsters Local 396.

Herrera added, "We are ecstatic Athens Services, a non-union company with a history of worker intimidation and exploitation will NOT be spreading its greedy tentacles in Santa Ana."

This is a huge victory in the first skirmish of the Teamsters Local 396 begins contract bargaining for roughly 2,700 haulers in LA and Orange County. With average wages around $28 an hour and full benefits, waste work is one of the few industries that has lifted workers out of poverty.

"Through organizing, strikes, and bargaining we went from over worked, disrespected and under paid immigrant workers to becoming over worked better paid homeowners who have lifted ourselves out of poverty, can pay college tuition for our kids, and take family vacations. Now we want to join the middle class," said Javier Bonales, Teamsters 396, Vice President and longtime OC waste hauler.

Teamsters Local 396 represents UPS and Sanitation workers in Southern California. The Local Union also serves Members in other miscellaneous industries such as logistics, recycling, and feed delivery services.

Learn more at: https://www.teamsterslocal396.org/

Contact: Adan Alvarez, (323) 404-5939

On Tuesday, August 17, 2021, the City of Santa Ana stood up for working people by rejecting the city staff recommendation to replace its unionized waste hauler with a non-union hauler with a track record of union busting, air pollution and paying near poverty wages, Teamsters Local 396 said today.

Related link: https://www.teamsterslocal396.org/

Individual with Down Syndrome Testifies for Phasing Out Subminimum Wages for Individuals with Disabilities

WASHINGTON, D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS), the leading organization for all individuals with Down syndrome, and the Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress (MDSC), the premier resource for information, advocacy and networking in Massachusetts, applaud the testimony of John Anton at Wednesday's Education & Labor Committee joint subcommittee hearing titled "Phasing Out Subminimum Wages: Supporting the Transition to Competitive Integrated Employment for Workers with Disabilities."

Mr. Anton, who works as MDSC's legislative specialist, has been a vocal advocate on issues concerning the rights of individuals with Down syndrome. His testimony is an important part of efforts by the community to support the passage of the Transformation to Competitive Integrated Employment Act (H.R. 2373) which was introduced by Congressman Bobby Scott (D-VA) and Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA).

At the hearing, Mr. Anton spoke about the vast difference between his work at MDSC and his experience working in a sheltered workshop. While working for subminimum wages, he was bored and asked his boss for more work. He was told no and quit his job on the spot. He went on to work for the Massachusetts State House and intern in Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers' office prior to his role at MDSC.

"It is all about respect and dignity as a citizen for me and not being stigmatized by labels, which belong on jars not people!" said Mr. Anton.

"We are thrilled that John had an opportunity to lend his powerful voice in this important forum," said MDSC Executive Director Maureen Gallagher. "Being paid an unfair wage is, unfortunately, a topic that John knows all too well. But not only has he survived, he has become a leading spokesperson in the movement to ensure that all people with Down syndrome and other disabilities have equal access to employment and other opportunities." Gallagher added that MDSC is also working on programmatic solutions to the disability employment crisis. "Through our Your Next Star employment initiative, MDSC is outreaching directly to employers to open their eyes to the abilities of employees with Down syndrome and help them diversify their workforces," she said.

Section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) of 1938 allows employers to pay people with disabilities less than the minimum wage (subminimum wage). People with disabilities who are employed under the 14(c) certificates are trained to perform mundane tasks for as little as $0.02 an hour, according to a 2018 report from the National Council on Disability.

"Despite being referred to as training programs, these environments do very little to build capacity or transfer into skills necessary to help people transition into other employment options," said Matteo Lieb, Employment Policy and Program Manager at NDSS. "This practice reinforces the misconception that individuals with disabilities are less productive and creates an artificial barrier to future employment opportunities."

As support builds for wage equity for people with disabilities around the country, NDSS, in partnership with the MDSC and other grassroots advocates, will continue to support phasing out subminimum wage at the federal and state levels.

"Equitable employment is a key legislative priority for NDSS," said President & CEO Kandi Pickard. "We believe every individual deserves the opportunity to work in an inclusive, competitive role where they can acquire meaningful skills and are paid a fair wage. Phasing out 14(c) will help pave the way for equality in the workplace for people with Down syndrome and other disabilities."

About NDSS

The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) is the leading human rights organization for all individuals with Down syndrome. NDSS envisions a world in which all people with Down syndrome have the opportunity to enhance their quality of life, realize their life aspirations and become valued members of welcoming communities. Founded in 1979, NDSS supports and advocates for the Down syndrome community by focusing on three key areas of programming: Resources & Support, Policy & Advocacy and Community Engagement. Within these focus areas NDSS engages in various activities, events and programs such as the National Advocacy & Policy Center, which seeks to create systemic change through engaged advocacy; the National Buddy Walk® Program, which honors and celebrates individuals with Down syndrome in local communities across the world, and other initiatives that provide support, informational resources and community engagement opportunities for individuals with Down syndrome and those who support them. Visit http://www.ndss.org for more information about NDSS.

About MDSC

MDSC has been working with NDSS for over a decade to promote policies that improve the lives of all people with Down syndrome. MDSC has sent a delegation to NDSS's Buddy Walk on Washington annually to meet with legislators and share the importance of our disability policy priorities. MDSC also offers a broad array of programs to serve people with Down syndrome and their families throughout Massachusetts, including: A Buddy Walk® Program that gives individuals, schools, community groups, and local businesses an opportunity to get involved in fundraising campaigns; Self-Advocate Programs like Advocates in Motion and our Self-Advocate Advisory Council, which provide opportunities for teens and adults with Down syndrome while making empowerment a central component; Parents First Call Program, a volunteer, state-wide group of trained parent mentors available 24/7 to listen, share, answer questions, and provide valuable information; and other programs like our Diversity Outreach & Support Program and our affiliate programs Dads Appreciating Down Syndrome (D.A.D.S.) and the Down Syndrome-Autism Connection that serve the entire Down syndrome community.

To learn more, visit https://mdsc.org/ and https://www.yournextstar.org/ for more information.

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/ZCGgJKhim3I

RELATED LINKS:

https://edlabor.house.gov/hearings/phasing-out-subminimum-wages-supporting-the-transition-to-competitive-integrated-employment-for-workers-with-disabilities

https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/2373

MEDIA CONTACT:
Joshua Komyerov
Director of Communications, MDSC
jkomyerov @ mdsc.org
781-221-0024 ext 202

The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) and the Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress (MDSC) applaud the testimony of John Anton at Wednesday's Education & Labor Committee joint subcommittee hearing, "Phasing Out Subminimum Wages: Supporting the Transition to Competitive Integrated Employment for Workers with Disabilities."

Related link: https://mdsc.org/

Melissa Martz’s Congressional Campaign Finishes First Quarter with Strong Grassroots Support

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- A tenacious fighter, attorney, mother and anti-child trafficking advocate, Melissa Martz hit the streets three months ago to garner community support for Florida's 18th Congressional District. Her first quarter FEC filings show she did just that by raising $202,000.

Martz reported no political action committee (PAC) money, but a substantial amount of local money and in-kind donations.

"These numbers let me know the people in our community are serious about having someone in Congress who will represent their interests and not those of big business and special interest groups," said Martz. "The encouragement I've received has been overwhelming."

More than 40 people have adorned their cars with large magnets acknowledging their commitment to her candidacy from the start.

A main tenet of her platform is to protect the innate value of each individual. Martz is a Constitutionalist, with a moral fire to see the inalienable rights of "We The People," protected by the government, not taken by it.

Government intrusion, overreach and outright corruption are happening at alarming rates, which is prompting a ground swell of support for new leadership in our country.

Martz is prepared to introduce and support legislation that supports Constitutional rights, restricts government overreach and protects our children. She is known as a woman of action and understands the God-given sovereignty of the individual.

A campaign celebration is planned for July 24th from 4-6 p.m. at You Farm in Loxahatchee, FL. For more information about the Melissa Martz for Congress 2022 campaign and to follow her on social media, visit http://www.melissamartz.com/.

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0409s2p-mmartz-300dpi.jpg

*Caption: Melissa Martz, candidate for Florida's 18th Congressional District.

PAID FOR BY MELISSA MARTZ FOR CONGRESS 2022.

A tenacious fighter, attorney, mother and anti-child trafficking advocate, Melissa Martz hit the streets three months ago to garner community support for Florida's 18th Congressional District. Her first quarter FEC filings show she did just that by raising $202,000.

Related link: https://melissamartz.com/

Opposition to Los Angeles’ Burbank Blvd Street Widening Project – Burbank Widening Citizens Group

NORTH HOLLYWOOD, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Burbank Widening Citizens Group. ("BWC Group") announced today that it is organizing in opposition to the Burbank Blvd. Street Widening Project. The Group consists of businesses and residences situated along the affected Burbank Blvd., between Lankershim Blvd. and Cleon St. The BWC Group states, "On the heels of Covid, eighteen businesses are required to spend tens of thousands of dollars on property abatements.

"This highway project takes our property, parking, fencing, gates, and improvements and subjects the neighborhood to two years of noise, traffic disruption, and lost business, all for a highway nobody wants or needs. The call for public comment on this project occurred in 2009, as was the Project Impact filing. With the passing of twelve years since the Project CEQ Impact filing and public comment, it is mandatory that a Project Impact Re-evaluation and a re-opening of a period of public comment. The neighborhood description in the 2009 Impact statement looks nothing like the 2021 neighborhood."

The BWC Group also notes that "the Planning Department has targeted many businesses as scofflaws who have "built in the city right-of-way" despite City permits on the improvements. There has been a lack of transparency and a failure of communication between the neighborhood and Planning Commission." The BWC Group continues, "the bottom line is nobody wants this highway, and the neighborhood feels it's unnecessary. The neighborhood wants a road that fits the neighborhood, not the other way around."

The BWC Group has a petition in opposition on http://change.org/burbankblvd and the Burbank Widening Citizens Group website at https://burbankwidening.com/.

For more information: Burbank Widening Citizens Group Committee@BurbankWidening.com

The Burbank Widening Citizens Group. ("BWC Group") announced today that it is organizing in opposition to the Burbank Blvd. Street Widening Project. The Group consists of businesses and residences situated along the affected Burbank Blvd., between Lankershim Blvd. and Cleon St.

Related link: https://burbankwidening.com/

Cole Engineering awarded $179M OTA by U.S. Army

ORLANDO, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Cole Engineering Services, Inc. (CESI), a By Light Company, has been awarded a $179M Other Transaction Authority (OTA) agreement to serve as the core software enabler for the Synthetic Training Environment (STE) Training Simulation Software / Training Management Tool (TSS/TMT). The TSS/TMT is the "core" simulation software and hardware that provides a common synthetic environment, the exercise design and control tool, and data manager for STE collective training.

As the Army's future training capability, the STE will be a single, interconnected training system that provides a training environment, in which units from Soldier/Squad through Army Service Component Command conduct collective training. The STE will converge the live, virtual, constructive, and gaming environments as one complete training capability.

"Team CESI is honored to be entrusted to enable the future of the Army's Synthetic Training Environment to empower a revolution in Army training capability and effectiveness," said Devin Lyders, CESI Senior Vice President, Advanced Training Systems, "We have taken great pride in supporting STE since the initial onset of prototyping activities in 2018 and are proud to offer a comprehensive solution that is modular, scalable, and prepared to rapidly deliver capability into the hands of the Soldier. As a participant in and benefactor of Soldier Centric Design, CESI understands at its core that the TSS/TMT capabilities are about delivering the best possible training to our Warfighters no matter the place, time, or domain."

Team CESI consists of a robust group of contributors with deep understanding of the STE vision including 4C North America, Inc.; Bohemia Interactive Simulations, Inc.; Cesium GS, Inc.; Dignitas Technologies; Leidos, Inc.; Perspecta; Raydon Corporation; Systematic, Inc.; and Maxar Technologies.

The Team CESI solution is a modular open systems architecture built on a CESI-developed backbone called MSSV ("massive"). The TSS/TMT solution will realize a modern, modular system that converges live, virtual, constructive, and gaming environments into a single, holistic synthetic environment. MSSV is a proven, hardened architecture solution that will allow an integrated, tested, and training-ready capability to be delivered in under a year.

"By Light and its companies continue to provide innovative systems and solutions to help stay ahead of our country's adversaries," said Bob Donahue Jr., Chief Executive Officer of By Light, "Team CESI is immediately postured to deliver a solution that keeps our soldiers in front and is adaptable to the ever-changing operational environment."

About CESI

Formed in 2004, Cole Engineering Services, Inc., is an award-winning company that maintains a distinct record of strong performance in developing dynamic engineering programs. CESI implements operational, modeling, simulation, and gaming-based technologies that enable Warfighters and First Responders in their services to the nation. CESI develops unique simulation-based systems for simple and complex military missions and has extensive experience developing interoperable distributed simulation architectures for engineering and training environments. Led by a highly talented and experienced team with deep institutional knowledge and an extensive infrastructure in the form of laboratories and tools/methodologies, CESI tackles some of the military's most complex modeling and simulation projects. 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 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://www.bylight.com/.

Cole Engineering Services, Inc. (CESI), a By Light Company, has been awarded a $179M Other Transaction Authority (OTA) agreement to serve as the core software enabler for the Synthetic Training Environment (STE) Training Simulation Software / Training Management Tool (TSS/TMT).

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

NSC Awards Cole Engineering Team $31M OTA

MCLEAN, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- Cole Engineering Services, Inc. (CESI) a By Light Company, has been awarded a $31.3M contract by the National Spectrum Consortium (NSC) for the Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality (AR/VR) 5G Network Enhancements Prototype Other Transaction Agreement (OTA). CESI as the prime contractor for this OTA, with key teammates Eridan Communications, Inc., Prizm XR, Inc., and Athena Technologies, LLC, are together delivering this next-generation technology development for augmented and virtual reality testbeds, 5G networks, and applications at Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBML) in Washington State.

This project supports the Department of Defense (DoD) 5G Strategy Implementation Plan to accelerate implementation of advanced wireless communications with applications in both the Continental United States (CONUS) and outside CONUS regions. For this 5G experimentation at JBLM, DoD, and the Department of the Army expect to develop effective methodologies to allow combat training enhanced by 5G communications technologies.

The project is divided into three sequential phases in which advanced 5G technologies will be tested in laboratory environments, then fielded and evaluated in the 5G enhanced training environment deployed at JBLM. The goal of this prototype project is to develop and demonstrate 5G-based AR/VR enhancement that enables Army mission planning and training. The prototype will demonstrate the ability to design, build, and sustain an advanced enhancement that allows for 5G cellular connectivity to accommodate military training activity.

According to Thomas Fransson, CESI, SVP Operations, Simulation Products & Services, "This award reinforces the success of our long heritage in advanced wireless communications, and now extends into the new and exciting area of providing these capabilities for training and operations, where we can leverage our extensive experience of supporting DoD with simulations and training products. Our 5G network solution addresses the breadth of challenges presented by foliage and weather, vastly improves the performance of the network in terms of number of participants and reduces latency - thereby improving soldier perception of combat engagement."

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 rated systems integrator that provides secure, turn-key systems by incorporating exceptional engineering, project management, telecommunications, and cyber capabilities to safeguard mission success. Founded by industry professionals with extensive knowledge in the DoD, DISA, and other US Government agencies, By Light successfully implements technical solutions that integrate commercial best practices to meet the needs of government. For more information, visit http://www.bylight.com/.

About CESI

Formed in 2004, Cole Engineering Services, Inc., is an award-winning company that maintains a distinct record of strong performance in developing dynamic engineering programs. CESI implements operational, modeling, simulation, and gaming-based technologies that enable Warfighters and First Responders in their services to the nation. CESI develops unique simulation-based systems for simple and complex military missions and has extensive experience developing interoperable distributed simulation architectures for engineering and training environments. Led by a highly talented and experienced team with deep institutional knowledge and an extensive infrastructure in the form of laboratories and tools and methodologies, CESI tackles some of the military's most complex modeling and simulation projects. Learn more at http://www.cesicorp.com/.

Cole Engineering Services, Inc. (CESI) a By Light Company, has been awarded a $31.3M contract by the National Spectrum Consortium (NSC) for the Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality (AR/VR) 5G Network Enhancements Prototype Other Transaction Agreement (OTA).

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

Local Community Gift Card Program Shows up to 8X ROI on Federal Funds Invested to Help Small Businesses in Pandemic Recovery

MENLO PARK, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- As communities strive to help their local businesses weather the pandemic storm, Yiftee has grown to more than 270 Community eGift Cards across the United States and executed 74 "Buy-One-Get-One" programs. These programs enlist entire communities in purchasing eGift Cards that can only be spent at local businesses, where the card buyers also receive free bonus gifts for their own use.

Yiftee and Whatcom County, WA teamed up to measure the revenue impact of their program for small businesses in Whatcom County. Between money spent on community card purchases, bonus cards funded by the CARES Act, and overspend on the gift cards and bonus cards, the analysis found that the bonus program investment was returned by 2X in its first month, 4X after 3 months and could return up to 8X over the next year when the majority of the purchased cards have been redeemed.

Data shows more than 30% is typically spent over the card value

Derek Long, Executive Director of Sustainable Connections in Bellingham, WA, who worked with Whatcom County government to fund the bonus cards and marketing to support it said, "The card buyer survey showed that on average, people spend 34% more than the purchased cards and 31% more than the bonus cards. We returned 2X our bonus card investment in the first month, and now we are at 4X with potential to double that as more cards are redeemed over the next year or so."

Sandy Ward, President and CEO of Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism added, "The Whatcom County community has really rallied to help our small businesses and we are thrilled with the results. The bonus funds sold out quickly in December, and people have continued to purchase the Whatcom County Think Local First cards, with thousands more purchased after the bonus ran out."

Besides the CARES Act in Q4 2020, Yiftee is seeing funds for similar programs coming from corporate sponsors, tourism offices, city and county governments, and most recently federal funds from the American Recovery Plan all helping small businesses come back.

More than half of card holders tried out new shops or restaurants

Yiftee and Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism jointly sponsored the survey and were pleased that the extensive card buyer survey, conducted by the Claremont Consulting Group Inc.*, also found that 51% of card buyers tried new shops or restaurants with their Community eGift Cards, and cardholders liked being able to use them at multiple places around town. The bonus program drew attention to the new Whatcom County program, launched in November 2020, with 50% of people saying they would be significantly more likely to purchase a $50 card if they got a $10 bonus.

"Shopping local has always been popular but now it's essential, and Community Cards are a simple way for consumers, companies and local governments to keep their local dollars local," said Donna Novitsky, Yiftee CEO and co-founder. An incredible 92% of card buyers surveyed said they prefer to support their local business with a Community Card vs buying national brand gift cards.

Ann Marie Cooper, Owner of Good Earth Pottery in Bellingham, WA commented, "The gift card program definitely brought extra/new traffic to our shop. Several customers told me so. I know some local folks sent these gift cards to friends and family out of town, to bring their business to us/Whatcom County. The incentive program (bonus spending money) was big motivation for people to purchase the Think Local First Gift Cards... I am very thankful for the program."

About Yiftee, Keep Local Dollars Local

Yiftee serves more than 270 communities and 10,000 local businesses with simple, secure, PoS-independent eGift Cards that keep local dollars local - more than $13M in pandemic year 2020. The company works with Chambers of Commerce, Downtowns, Main Streets, Business Improvement Districts, city governments and other local organizations to create "Community Cards," branded for the community and redeemable at 10s to 100s of local businesses. Organizations and individuals purchase them online and send them via email, text or print to friends, family and co-workers to support their local businesses.

There is no cost to the organizers or merchants for the program and it can be set up in just a few days. Yiftee also provides custom-branded cards for individual merchants, franchises, and chains.

More info at https://yiftee.com/, email: sales@yiftee.com, Twitter: @Yiftee, Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yiftee/.

(Note: * Claremont Consulting Group Inc. study included 197 survey responses for purchases made November 2020-March 2021.)

IMAGE LINK FOR MEDIA: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0511s2p-yifteecard-300dpi.jpg

CAPTION: The Whatcom County, WA Think Local First gift card promotion held in Nov/Dec 2020 multiplied federal government funds with consumer purchases that exclusively support local shops and restaurants in the area as they come back from closures due to COVID.

As communities strive to help their local businesses weather the pandemic storm, Yiftee has grown to more than 270 Community eGift Cards across the United States and executed 74 "Buy-One-Get-One" programs. These programs enlist entire communities in purchasing eGift Cards that can only be spent at local businesses, where the card buyers also receive free bonus gifts for their own

Related link: https://yiftee.com/

Dr. Bernice King, Martin Luther King III & Jason Carter Join The Peoples’ Agenda to Launch Statewide Votercades on John Lewis National Day of Action

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- In an effort to bring attention to the onslaught of voter suppression laws and ignite public support for bills to restore protections of the 1965 Voting Rights Act, the Georgia Coalition for the Peoples' Agenda (Peoples' Agenda) will join local and national partners to host Votercades, teach-ins and other events throughout the state on John Lewis Voting Rights Day of Action, 2 PM Saturday May 8, 2021.

For a city-by-city schedule of Votercades and events visit https://tinyurl.com/peoplesagenda.

Charles Steele, president, SCLC; Jason Carter, grandson of former President Jimmy Carter; Dr. Bernice King and Martin King III, the children of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.; Cheryl Lowery, daughter of Dr. Joseph E. Lowery; and other children of civil rights leaders will be on hand to kick off the Votercades during a press conference 2 PM Saturday May 8, 2021 at The King Center on Auburn Ave. The press conference will be broadcasted as part of a national press conference hosted by Transformative Justice Coalition in Washington, DC.

"We expect the participation on Saturday to be even larger than our Votercades during the runoffs because on the same day, same time, concerned citizens will drive through various U.S. cities to bring attention to the urgent need for policies that make voting easier, not harder," said Helen Butler, executive director of the Peoples' Agenda. "Here in the cradle of the Civil Rights Movement we are determined to send a loud message that, as our founder, Dr. Joseph Lowery said, 'We're not going back. We've marched too hard, died too young and bleed too profusely to allow anyone to turn back the hands of time on our journey to justice' - even in a global pandemic."

Created in response to the COVID-19 crisis, Votercades are presidential-style motorcades that are safer than marching during the pandemic. In many cities they will be followed by outdoor or virtual activism villages providing information for citizens to become civically involved. Votercades were instrumental in bringing attention to the importance of the 2020 election and were used to turn out Black and Brown voters in record numbers during the Georgia Senate runoff in Jan.

Dekalb and Clayton County Votercades and a caravan from The Carter Center will join the Atlanta group at The King Center. After the press conference they will proceed through the city, ending at Cascade United Methodist Church where they will have a teach-in. Other Georgia cities hosting events include: Athens, Albany, Augusta, LaGrange, Loganville, Macon, Savannah, Statesboro, and Hinesville.

For starting locations go to https://tinyurl.com/peoplesagenda and for Gwinett County, https://tinyurl.com/peoplesagenda1 .

Partners joining the Peoples' Agenda for the John Lewis Voting Rights Day of Action include leaders from civil rights, faith, labor and the business community the Voting Rights Alliance, Clayton County Black Women's Roundtable and Westside Neighbors United in Macon. Current bills the groups are supporting are S1 (For The People Act); HR 4 (The John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act); and HR 51 (Washington, DC Admissions Act), making the District of Columbia the 51st state and empower the predominately Black residents with equal voting rights.

Georgia Coalition for the Peoples' Agenda is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization performing year-round voter registration, education and mobilization in Black communities throughout Georgia. Led by board chair, Rev. J. A. Milner, and Butler, the organization has headquarters in Atlanta and offices in Athens, Albany, Macon, Augusta, LaGrange and Savannah. For more information visit http://thepeoplesagenda.org/, email coalition@bellsouth.net or call the Peoples' Agenda at (404) 653-1199.

MEDIA CONTACTS

Contact: Edrea Davis- edmedia@dogonvillage.com

Sean Davis - otssean7@gmail.com

Phone: 770.961.6200/818.613.9521 (text)

In an effort to bring attention to the onslaught of voter suppression laws and ignite public support for bills to restore protections of the 1965 Voting Rights Act, the Georgia Coalition for the Peoples' Agenda (Peoples' Agenda) will join local and national partners to host Votercades, teach-ins and other events throughout the state on John Lewis Voting Rights Day of Action, 2 PM Saturday May 8, 2021.

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

The City of Pompano Beach Parks and Recreation Department Announces All-Inclusive Playground

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The City of Pompano Beach Parks and Recreation Department has enhanced the Sergeant Kip Jacoby Park with a new all-inclusive playground that features equipment that will encourage side-by-side play for all children. The new pieces by the Kompan Company improve physical, cognitive, creative and social skills for all children, while offering a welcoming atmosphere for children with special needs.

"We recognized the need for an all-abilities park in Pompano Beach and felt that Sergeant Kip Jacoby Park would be an ideal choice," said Mark Beaudreau, Recreations Program Administrator. "This new playground, with its state-of-the-art equipment, will improve the quality of life for families throughout our City and the region and will encourage inclusion and foster new friendships."

During the past few months, the playground has been redesigned to include a custom-built play structure with ramps, special swings and an array of accessible equipment that encourage fun, interaction and learning.

Responsive to children's movements, the TIPI apparatus spins when pushed or pulled. Apart from being a fun negotiation and turn-taking game, the pushing and pulling build muscles and cardio. In the TIPI, children can lie, sit or stand with the support of the side bars or the top frame. This welcomes children with mobility disabilities to be part of the play, too. The spinning movement trains the sense of space and balance. The Robinia Percussion Music Panel is an invitation to play for children featuring a variation in drumming sounds and tonal responses to movements. The drums can be played alone or together. The Xylophone Music Panel trains hand-eye coordination while the tonality of the music panel stimulates logical as well as creative thinking. And the Spinner Bowl allows children to adjust the spinning speed with their body movements. This trains logical thinking and trains the sense of balance, which is mandatory for concentration skills and the ability to sit still. Pushing or being pushed by others trains social-emotional skills such as turn-taking.

"Thank you, City of Pompano Beach! There are so few inclusive playgrounds for children with disabilities," said Myrna Miott, Director of Development and Marketing for the Broward Children's Center. "We are thrilled that our city has taken this proactive and innovative step so that children of all abilities can play together. We look forward to the many friendships and connections that will be made in our community as a result of everyone being able to safely let loose together in this space."

Sergeant Kip Jacoby is named after a longtime Pompano Beach resident who lost his life on June 28, 2005 in Afghanistan during Operation Red Wings. To honor his sacrifice, the City renamed the park, where he loved to skateboard, in his honor. The park is located at 620 S. Cypress Road in Pompano Beach.

The City of Pompano Beach is a vibrant multicultural community located in the heart of Florida's Gold Coast. We are known for our warm welcome and beautiful beaches, listed 9th in the 2021 "Best Beaches in the World" by Travel Addicts Life Magazine. This All-America City is one of the largest beachfront cities in South Florida with a four mile stretch of pristine shoreline, over 700 acres of parks, and a commitment to arts & culture. Key industries include marine, manufacturing, distribution, tourism and entertainment.

For more information visit us at http://pompanobeachfl.gov/

Media Contact: Kay@KRPRmediagroup.com

The City of Pompano Beach Parks and Recreation Department has enhanced the Sergeant Kip Jacoby Park with a new all-inclusive playground that features equipment that will encourage side-by-side play for all children.

Related link: https://pompanobeachfl.gov/

Rural Iowa Manufacturing Jobs Surplus Means Big Opportunities

OSCEOLA, Iowa /ScoopCloud/ -- It's been a year since the manufacturing industry was hit by the COVID-19 crisis forcing businesses to get creative to manage their workforce assets. In April of 2020, the rural Clarke County, Iowa's unemployment rate jumped from 3.4% to 11.8%, and more than 100,000 workers across the state were displaced, laid off, or simply let go when businesses had to close their doors, says Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC).

Now COVID restrictions have begun to lift and the economy is picking up again, especially for manufacturers in Osceola, Iowa. Unfortunately, many businesses are still struggling in their search for the right candidates to fill key positions.

"We've got 4,700 non-farm jobs and our major manufacturers continue to grow and add staff," said Bill Trickey, Executive Director of the Clarke County Development Corporation. "Now is a great time to find a job in Clarke County."

Major Clarke County employers have a variety of positions available and are casting a wide net to entice the right candidates to the region. Full of lucrative job opportunities, Osceola boasts easy access from Des Moines, Indianola, Norwalk, St. Mary's, Martensdale and many other South-Central Iowa and Northern Missouri cities via I-35 and highways 34 and 92.

"We're certainly in a position where we have more jobs than people to fill them, so we're recruiting from across the state to find the right fit," said Susan Miller, Human Resources Recruiter for the Altec body plant. "While our pay is more than competitive with most Des Moines metro employers, and our benefits package is outstanding, we've found that it's our unique company culture that really makes working here desirable."

In an effort to fill essential manufacturing positions, companies are finding new incentives to draw in applicants, encourage referrals from current employees, and reward retention among the staff. For example, The Paul Mueller Company, manufacturers of stainless steel, food-grade refrigeration and transportation tanks, offers an incremental referral bonus as well as new employee sign-on bonuses awarded at ninety days, six months, and one year.

Altec body plant helps employees attain Bachelor or Masters degrees in the industry by funding online courses through The University of Alabama and offers wellness benefits to employees and their spouses for completing fun and easy challenges. And Iowa Steel gives their regional sales team the opportunity to work from home or remotely as they travel the country to meet with customers, offering an excellent base salary as well as commission.

"We're in the process of growing, locally and nationwide. On top of filling regional sales positions around the country, we're also adding to our Osceola facility in the fall of 2021 and hiring more skilled labor," said Kate Patton, Human Resources Director at Iowa Steel. "Clarke County is full of employers offering diverse opportunities with competitive pay and an excellent work-life balance. We're just looking for the right applicants."

While unemployment rates are relatively low, there is still a lot of work available in rural Iowa, especially in Clarke County. Employers are finding that top pay and benefits aren't the only tools needed to draw in a workforce.

"Money isn't the most important thing people are looking for these days. People are looking at our culture, and finding a place they enjoy coming to every day, and positioning their family to do more than just make ends meet," said Lauren Robins, Human Resources Generalist II for Paul Mueller Company. "On-site training, and a safe and healthy work environment are all important to prospective employees. Most of all they want to know that they're valued and able to be productive and growing for years to come."

Clarke County's manufacturing industry has advantages not found in bigger cities across the state. Factors like job security, educational incentives, and unique, diverse opportunities for advancement are all part of what draws in a workforce that drives the success of the entire community.

For more information about the availability of jobs mentioned in this press release, feel free to reach to the Human Resources department at each company:

- Altec Osceola Body Plant, HR Recruiter, Susan Miller, 641-223-8807, email: susan.miller@altec.com

- Iowa Steel Human Resources Director, Kate Patton, 641-342-2134, email: kpatton@countrysidetank.com

- Paul Mueller Company, Lauren Robins, Human Resources Generalist II, 641-342-5521, email: lrobins@paulmueller.com.

If you'd like to learn more about the manufacturing industry and development opportunities available in Clarke County, Iowa, please reach out to Bill Trickey, Executive Director of the Clarke County Development Corporation, at 641-414-1884 or email: info@clarkedev.com.

It's been a year since the manufacturing industry was hit by the COVID-19 crisis forcing businesses to get creative to manage their workforce assets. In April of 2020, the rural Clarke County, Iowa's unemployment rate jumped from 3.4% to 11.8%, and more than 100,000 workers across the state were displaced, laid off, or simply let go when businesses had to close their doors, says Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC).

Related link: https://osceolaclarkedev.com/

Virginia Minimum Wage Set to Increase

RICHMOND, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- Beginning May 1, 2021, the minimum wage for workers in Virginia will increase to $9.50 per hour. Additionally, some jobs previously exempt from the minimum wage are no longer exempt (e.g., domestic workers), the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry announced today. Please also be aware that, in contrast to the federal law, Virginia does not factor in the size of a business when deciding whether an employer is required to pay the minimum wage.

The Department of Labor and Industry has prepared some materials to assist both workers and employers in the Commonwealth to understand this new change. For a list of Frequently Asked Questions, please visit our website, http://www.doli.virginia.gov/.

Any employee who believes they are not being paid the minimum wage in violation of the law after May 1, 2021, should submit a claim form for unpaid wages. Claim forms are available at http://www.doli.virginia.gov/.

Please review the statutory exemptions listed here if you want to know if a job or business is exempt from the minimum wage: https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title40.1/chapter3/section40.1-28.9/

Should you have any additional questions about the Virginia Minimum Wage Act, or any other labor and employment law related questions, please contact the Department of Labor and Industry at laborlaw@doli.virginia.gov, or by phone at (804) 371-237.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Wendy H. Inge
Labor & Employment Law Director
(804)786-3224
wendy.inge@doli.virginia.gov

Beginning May 1, 2021, the minimum wage for workers in Virginia will increase to $9.50 per hour. Additionally, some jobs previously exempt from the minimum wage are no longer exempt (e.g., domestic workers), the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry announced today.

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

Labor leader and civil rights activist, Dolores Huerta, to speak at Marin Academy’s Conference on Democracy

SAN RAFAEL, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Marin Academy's Conference on Democracy, founded in 2004, earned nationwide recognition for Marin Academy as a leading independent school focused on equity and justice. The conference features sessions that are designed and facilitated jointly by MA students and faculty in partnership with local and national experts, activists, and stakeholders.

Marin Academy's 17th Annual Conference on Democracy will explore local, national, and global issues with student activists, leaders, and luminaries.

Amidst a global pandemic, the ongoing fight for racial justice, a climate crisis, and the recent presidential election, Marin Academy's student leaders decided that this year's conference will focus on how we are supporting the longevity of democracy in terms of the three main pillars of sustainability: social equity, environmental protection, and economic viability.

The slate of speakers and topics will focus on systemic inequalities rooted in our society and invite students to identify meaningful ways to increase the sustainability of our democracy individually, locally, and globally. From behavioral economics, neuroscience, and voting rights to youth activism, ethical listening, and gardening for food security in Marin County, the 17th Annual Conference on Democracy will challenge individuals to listen, learn, and initiate change in an environment of collaboration.

Marin Academy student activists, educators, alumni, and parents are eagerly anticipating the final keynote address by Dolores Huerta on Thursday, April 29, 2021.

Huerta, a civil rights pioneer, brought an intersectional vision to her community organizing work, recognizing that the specific needs of workers varied depending on their diverse identities. "Her lifelong pursuit of workers, immigrants, and women's rights and the courage she has had as a leader is inspiring to me. She has embodied her call to action of "Si, se puede" in so many ways, including often being the only woman, or the first woman, to be in various organizations or leadership roles at the time. She is a groundbreaker and inspires me to be one too." Chiara Savage Schwartz, one of the conference's student organizers shared. Huerta, now 91, is still active in community organizing and will be speaking about civic leadership and how to sustain one's civic engagement.

OTHER FEATURED SPEAKERS INCLUDE:

* Jared Huffman, American Congressman who serves in the U.S. House of Representatives for California's 2nd congressional district (which includes Marin County).

* San Rafael Mayor, Kate Colin.

* Mohammed Soriano-Bilal, a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) consultant who explores the convergence of the issues of race, gender, religion, and education in society through different artistic mediums. He is an award-winning film and music producer and poet and currently serves as the Associate Dean and Director of the Office for Inclusion, Belonging, and Intergroup Communication at Stanford University.

* Miyoko Schinner, chef, cookbook author, animal sanctuary founder, and owner of Miyoko's Creamery.

* Nil Zacharias, entrepreneur, advisor, and author who has spent the past 10 years focused on the intersection of food and sustainability.

* Shirzad Chamine, NY Times Bestselling Author and Stanford Lecturer.

* MA alum Trevor Cohen '08, author of "Bright Green Future," a book about solving climate change.

* Armando Quintero, Director, California State Parks.

* Christina Hammonds Reed, NY Times Bestselling Author of "The Black Kids."

Limited press tickets available for keynote speakers, including Dolores Huerta. Contact Justine Clifford for press access to the event.

ABOUT MARIN ACADEMY

Founded in 1971, Marin Academy is a co-educational, independent high school in Marin County. The multidimensional nature of MA's educational approach creates an environment in which our students thrive as scholars, athletes, and artists. Students experience the value of working with others as they grow their appetite to pursue their own passions, questions, and paths. Marin Academy's mission statement "asks every individual to think, question, and create in an environment of encouragement and compassion, and challenges each person to accept the responsibilities posed by education in a democratic society."

Learn more: https://www.ma.org/

CONTACT

Please contact Justine Clifford, Director of Marketing and Communications, at jclifford@ma.org, or call 415-482-3289 to schedule an interview.

Marin Academy's Conference on Democracy, founded in 2004, earned nationwide recognition for Marin Academy as a leading independent school focused on equity and justice. The conference features sessions that are designed and facilitated jointly by MA students and faculty in partnership with local and national experts, activists, and stakeholders.

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

TheSheriffApp.com announces a formal agreement with the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office (Ga.) to build a new custom mobile app to serve local citizens

FORSYTH, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- TheSheriffApp.com, a leading Alabama-based mobile app development company, today announced a new agreement to design and deploy a custom-built mobile app for service by the Monroe County Sheriff's Office. The new mobile app will be free for citizens of Monroe County and surrounding areas to download.

The mobile app will be available for download by mid-June 2021 and will provide features such as: truly anonymous tip reporting, jail inmate search and sex offender mapping. The mobile app will also allow the Monroe County Sheriff's Office to send push notifications to app users to inform them of dangerous weather, traffic, road closures, crime and other notification alerts important to local public safety.

Unlike other app development companies, TheSheriffApp.com provides iOS and Android data integration into mobile app features to enhance the user experience and provide real-time information to citizens.

"We are honored to 'serve those who serve' by equipping law enforcement, and other public service agencies, with a communication platform that delivers increased partnerships, transparency and engagement with the communities they serve," said CEO, Eric Halverson. "Our technologies provide real-time information important to the Monroe County, Ga. community about local crime, public safety and truly anonymous tip reporting so citizens can assist law enforcement in fighting crime."

"Another unique feature we offer is integrated sex offender mapping. This highly valued feature provides a simple and effective way for citizens to be aware of registered sex offenders in and around their communities."

More information: https://thesheriffapp.com/.

About TheSheriffApp.com®:

Based in Opelika, Alabama, TheSheriffApp.com has built and deployed over 500 custom mobile apps for public service agencies across the country. TheSheriffApp.com has developed numerous proprietary solutions to help increase communication and partnership between public service agencies and the citizens they serve.

TheSheriffApp.com ( https://www.thesheriffapp.com/ ), a service of OCV LLC, offers best-in-class affordable custom app development for public service agencies such as sheriff offices, police departments, fire departments, public health agencies and city & county governments.

TheSheriffApp.com, a leading Alabama-based mobile app development company, today announced a new agreement to design and deploy a custom-built mobile app for service by the Monroe County Sheriff's Office. The new mobile app will be free for citizens of Monroe County and surrounding areas to download.

Related link: https://thesheriffapp.com/

The Central Valley joins the technology revolution – 5G IS LIVE IN FRESNO

FRESNO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The City of Fresno has been a leader in ushering wireless connectivity in the central valley and has opened its doors to the deployment of 5G. The City of Fresno, together with XG Communities created a transparent process in order to push forward the deployment of small cells for all carriers.

"5G is a huge step forward for the City of Fresno," Mayor Jerry Dyer said. "This next generation technology will improve online access for our residents and boost the City's economic development by creating opportunities for businesses currently here, looking to locate here, or even those exploring telecommuting options. As we move ahead with our partners XG Communities and Verizon, I see the continued 5G deployment as another part of my One Fresno vision that will help bring all of Fresno together."

The groundwork has been laid for efficient, city-wide scaled deployment, which utilizes assets in the right of way, fiber and conduit. "We are excited to turn up the new Verizon network and extend the benefits of speed, coverage and new applications to the citizens of Fresno, more than any other time history, connectivity is critical, we must provide access for our citizens," said Bryon Horn, CIO, City of Fresno.

XG Communities is executing the construction of the network to meet the goal of bringing small cells to this area. Monnie McGaffigan, President XG, said, "5G is considered one of the largest civil engineering projects in the world right now and the City of Fresno is capitalizing on the benefits the technology will bring."

The new 5G network is foundational for smart city initiatives, speed and enhanced connectivity. The network is now live in several areas of the community with over 100 small cell sites on air and more to come. The project will ultimately cover the entire City with multiple carriers. Verizon has been the first carrier to aggressively deploy in the City of Fresno.

About Fresno:

City of Fresno is in the Top 10 Largest Cities in California by population with around 522,000+ residents. The city has become an economic hub of the San Joaquin Valley and it is 24th for most livable city in the US for people 35 and under.

With a robust public infrastructure, Fresno = Quality Lifestyle, with a low cost of living and numerous National Parks.

About XG Communities

XG is a premier provider of small cell engineering services and comprehensive wireless strategies in the Right-of-Way. The hallmark of the company lies in providing A&E services and bringing construction projects to fruition. We utilize skilled in-house resources to execute a range of projects, while providing real-time updates. Our turnkey services ensure efficient and effective deployments tailored to meet local requirements, safety guidelines, and industry standards.

For more information, please visit https://www.xgcommunities.com/.

For media queries, contact:
XG Communities LLC
(949) 514-4617
info@xgcommunities.com

The City of Fresno has been a leader in ushering wireless connectivity in the central valley and has opened its doors to the deployment of 5G. The City of Fresno, together with XG Communities created a transparent process in order to push forward the deployment of small cells for all carriers.

Related link: http://xgcommunities.com/

Attorney, Mother and Child Advocate Melissa Martz Announces Bid for Florida’s 18th Congressional District

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- A tenacious fighter, attorney, mother and anti-child sex trafficking advocate, Melissa Martz begins her congressional campaign to unseat U.S. Congressman Brian Mast in 2022. A main tenet of her platform is to protect the inalienable rights and innate value of each individual in District 18, which covers parts of Port St. Lucie, Fort Pierce, Stuart, Jupiter and Palm Beach.

Having survived childhood sexual abuse, Martz intends to educate others that the blatant exploitation and sexual abuse of children should never be tolerated. Remarks made by Representative Brian Mast on social media about "hooking up with 15, fifteen year olds" and "...don't turn this rape into a murder," make him unfit to hold public office, no matter how much money he is able to raise or how many times he apologizes.

"I appreciate U.S. Representative Mast's service and sacrifice to our country, but there are no answers that can vindicate his voting record against our 2nd Amendment rights or the horrendous comments he made about young girls," Martz states. This is Martz's motivation to avail herself to the community in this trying time.

Melissa Martz is a Constitutionalist, with a moral fire to see the inalienable rights of "We the people," protected by the government, not taken from them. Government intrusion, overreach and outright corruption are happening at alarming rates between lockdowns, election fraud and sexual abuse against our children, which remains underreported.

"It is time for the people to take back their communities, their state, and their nation and it starts here," said Martz.

She is prepared to introduce and support legislation that supports Constitutional rights, restricts government overreach and puts an end to child trafficking.

"I have the backbone, the stamina and the Constitutional expertise to protect the rights of the people," said Martz. "True representation of "we the people" must be free of corruption and abuse."

Melissa Martz is a woman of action. She continues to help represent a group of Palm Beach County residents, on a pro bono basis, against the County mandate, EO-12, which violates the Constitutional rights of the people. Martz understands the role of our government is to protect, not dictate, individual rights. She understands and gives deference to the God-given sovereignty of the individual.

For more information about the Melissa Martz for Congress 2022 campaign and to follow her on social media, visit https://melissamartz.com/.

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0409s2p-mmartz-300dpi.jpg

*Caption: Melissa Martz, candidate for Florida's 18th Congressional District.

PAID FOR BY MELISSA MARTZ FOR CONGRESS 2022.

A tenacious fighter, attorney, mother and anti-child sex trafficking advocate, Melissa Martz begins her congressional campaign to unseat U.S. Congressman Brian Mast in 2022. A main tenet of her platform is to protect the inalienable rights and innate value of each individual in District 18, which covers parts of Port St. Lucie, Fort Pierce, Stuart, Jupiter and Palm Beach.

Related link: https://melissamartz.com/

Georgia Black Women’s Roundtable Break from Battling Voter Suppression to Honor Valiant Women of the Vote

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Despite the ongoing efforts of many leaders to suppress the voices of Georgia residents, Black and Brown voters turned out in record numbers, electing the most diverse leadership in the state's history. Last week, the Georgia Coalition for the Peoples' Agenda's women's network, Georgia Black Women's Roundtable (BWR), took a short break from their fight against archaic voter suppression laws to recognize the historic leadership of local Black women during a virtual event, "Celebrating Valiant Women of the Vote: Refusing to Be Silenced."

"Black women have worked extremely hard over the past year to make sure every eligible voter was able to cast a ballot that counted without fear or intimidation," said Helen Butler, executive director of the Georgia Coalition for the Peoples' Agenda. "We wanted to take a moment to recognize the impact their service has had on our community, locally and nationally."

The first valiant woman of the vote, Dekalb County Commissioner Mereda Johnson, was elected to serve District 5 in 2015. A co-founding partner with the law firm of Johnson Hopewell Coleman, Commissioner Johnson has been a practicing attorney for more than 33 years, concentrating in family law. In 1985, she became the first Black female judge appointed in DeKalb County Courts.

"I decided to be a part of the change I wanted to see in Dekalb," said Commissioner Johnson. "Everyday I wake up to serve my neighbors and try to improve the quality of life in my community."

Gwinnett County Commissioner Nicole Love Hendrickson was elected chair of the Board of Commissioners in 2020, making her the first African American to hold this position. She was the founding director of the Gwinnett County Community Outreach program where she launched several community-based initiatives and has served on the boards of the United Way Gwinnett Community and the Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

Elected in 2020, Henry County Commissioner Carlotta Harrell is the daughter of a pastor and a freedom fighter. She is a managing partner and VP of Business Development with The Harrell Group, a women-owned consulting firm. Commissioner Harrell served as chief of staff for the Henry County Commissioner in District V and was a consultant for the Georgia Conference of African American Mayors, assisting mayors and cities with identifying over $300 million dollars in funding for infrastructure and economic development projects.

Prior to being sworn in as the county's first Black and first woman chairperson, Cobb County Commissioner Lisa Cupid served on the Board of Commissioners for eight years representing District Four. Commissioner Cupid is an attorney and former mediator, policy analyst and manufacturing process engineer. She is known as a strong advocate for the fair treatment of all of Cobb's residents and stakeholders regardless of geographic, demographic or economic standing. Her accomplishments include championing Cobb's newly instituted Sunday transit service and advocating for enhanced public safety measures.

The Rita Jackson Samuels Trailblazer Award was given to Felicia M. Davis, the co-founder of HBCU Green Fund and convener of Clayton County Black Women's Roundtable. Davis has been a staunch advocate for climate justice and spent just as much time promoting voting. Mentored by renowned civil rights leader, Dr. Joseph E. Lowery, Davis has led voter registration, education and mobilization initiatives locally and nationally. She serves on the board of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation and was a partner with the late Rita Samuels in Women Flying High, a business devoted to increasing women's participation in Atlanta airport contracts.

"My friend, Dr. Rita Jackson Samuels, would be so proud of the historic number of Black women elected officials in Georgia," said Davis. "Rita dedicated her life to women's empowerment, especially getting Black women elected. Today we're leading in Clayton, Cobb, Gwinnett, Dekalb, Henry and Douglas Counties, and throughout the state."

Dr. Samuels was a civil and women's right's visionary who worked alongside some of the most powerful leaders in the country including Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. She became the first Black woman in Georgia's history to serve on the staff of a Georgia Governor and went on to serve in the staff of President Jimmy Carter.

The Georgia Coalition for the Peoples' Agenda ( http://thepeoplesagenda.org/ ) is proud to promote health, wealth, and economic prosperity for women through Georgia Black Women's Roundtable, an affiliate of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation's Black Women's Roundtable (blackwomensroundtable.org); an intergenerational leadership development, mentoring, and empowerment arm for Black women and girls that stays at the forefront of championing justice and equitable public policies.

Contact: Edrea Davis
Phone: (770) 961-6200)/ (818) 613-9521

Despite the ongoing efforts of many leaders to suppress the voices of Georgia residents, Black and Brown voters turned out in record numbers, electing the most diverse leadership in the state's history. The Georgia Coalition for the Peoples' Agenda's women's network, Georgia Black Women's Roundtable (BWR) recognized the historic leadership of local Black women.

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

Environmental Justice Leader Mustafa Ali to Dialogue with White House Advisor Gina McCarthy at BIPOC Climate Justice Virtual Event

WASHINGTON, D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- After an introduction by U.S. Special Envoy for Climate John Kerry, environmental justice leader, Mustafa Santiago Ali, will discuss the Biden-Harris Administration's approach to climate justice with White House Advisor Gina McCarthy during a panel discussion at the day-long virtual BIPOC Climate Justice event. The panel, "White House Climate Overview," starts at 12:55 PM on Thursday, April 8, 2020, the HBCU Green Fund announced today.

A former official at the Environmental Protection Agency, Ali is the vice president of environmental justice, climate and community revitalization for the National Wildlife Federation and founder of Revitalization Strategies. Gina McCarthy is a leading environmental health and air quality expert. EPA under President Obama and helped in efforts to secure the Paris Climate agreement.

Convened by the HBCU Green Fund, Land Peace Foundation, BIPOC Climate Scholars Project, and U.S. Action for Climate Empowerment Coordinating Team, the event will provide an opportunity for climate leaders to discuss national climate goals and priorities with top administration officials and federal agency representatives.

Climate leaders will discuss BIPOC priorities for a just transition, culturally responsive climate action, and will also introduce the community-driven U.S. framework for Action for Climate Empowerment (ACE), as recommended in Article 12 of the Paris Agreement. They will also discuss implementation of Biden's Justice40 initiative across federal agencies.

The BIPOC Climate Justice Dialogue is free and open to the public. For An agenda participant list visit http://hbcugreenfund.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/BIPOC_Dialogues_Agenda.pdf.

WHAT: Panel featuring John Kerry, Mustafa Ali, Gina McCarthy, Felicia M. Davis

WHERE: Facebook Live: https://m.facebook.com/HBCUGreenFund

ZOOM: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81039783325?pwd=RUV1dUZpY0ZxcEpSVENTV2RuSzZqZz09

WHEN: DATE: Thursday April 8, 2020

TIME: 12:55 PM until 1:30 PM**

**(please note: the day-long event is 9 AM - 5 PM)

CONTACT: Media is invited to attend. For more information email edmedia@dogonvillage.com, text: 818.613.9521, phone: 770.961.6200.

ABOUT HBCU GREEN FUND

The HBCU Green Fund promotes investment in sustainable campus solutions, interdisciplinary sustainability curriculum development, student and faculty engagement and just climate policy with a focus on historically black colleges and universities.

ABOUT LAND PEACE FOUNDATION

The Land Peace Foundation (LPF) is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the Indigenous way of Life, which includes: the protection and preservation of Indigenous land, water, religious and/or spiritual rights; proliferation of cultural and traditional practices; strengthening of kinship roles, and; preservation of ceremonial ways of being.

ABOUT BIPOC CLIMATE SCHOLARS PROJECT

The BIPOC Climate Scholars Project is established as a resource hub activating a national network of Black, Indigenous, Latinx and Asian/Pacific climate scientist and policy experts eager to advise, conduct and support research and implementation of public and private action to address climate change.

ABOUT U.S. ACTION FOR CLIMATE EMPOWERMENT COORDINATING TEAM

The ACE team promotes the alignment of climate education, workforce development, and civic engagement nationally to accelerate a just transition to a low carbon economy and coordinates multi-level participation in the development of an Action for Climate Empowerment (ACE) Framework to advance the US national strategy as articulated in UNFCCC and Article 12 of the Paris Agreement.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Edrea Davis, 770.961.6200/818.613.9521 (cell).

After an introduction by U.S. Special Envoy for Climate John Kerry, environmental justice leader, Mustafa Santiago Ali, will discuss the Biden-Harris Administration's approach to climate justice with White House Advisor Gina McCarthy during a panel discussion at the day-long virtual BIPOC Climate Justice event, HBCU Green Fund announced.

Related link: http://hbcugreenfund.org/