Category Archives: Scoop

Lift & Care Systems Provides Resource Sheet for Massachusetts Caregivers

LAKEVILLE, Mass. /ScoopCloud/ -- Lift & Care Systems announces the release of the following Resource Sheet for Massachusetts Caregivers. "We tried to gather the best resources for anyone who has a loved one who has suffered from a disability," says Dave Austin, President of Lift & Care Systems. "This is a traumatizing event and it is understandable that caregivers might not know where to begin when looking for help. This is why we have gathered these resources together in one place."

Applying for Disability Services

There is basic information that will be needed to apply for disability services, no matter what organizations you work with. Here is what you will need:
* Social Security Number/Card
* Medical Records - Any information from doctors, therapists, hospitals, or clinics that might be necessary during the application process.
* Medical Provider Contact Info - The names, addresses, phone and fax numbers for anyone involved in the individual's care.
* Labs and Test Results
* List of Medications - Include the dosage and frequency of use information as well.
* Employment Information - A list of the individual's employers, employment dates, and a listing of job duties for the last 15 years.
* School Evaluations and Records - These school records are critical for any child with special needs because they document the issues that may impact the eligibility and scope of services offered.
* Financial Information

Disability Services Resources

Here are some of the best resources available for Massachusetts residents:
* Massachusetts Office on Disability (MOD)- This is one of the best places to begin your hunt for information. It provides contact information to get questions answered as well as links to various services.
* Mass.gov Disability Benefits page-Offered by the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC), this page guides you through the eligibility determination process.
* DisabilityInfo.org - This page provides links to a variety of basic programs and services for people with Disabilities. Everything from legal advocacy and assistive durable medical equipment to personal care and transportation assistance is covered on this page. This is a fantastic place to begin your research.
* Disability Benefits Center- This page has a free disability evaluation to determine if you qualify for services. This page is geared toward SSDI and SSI eligibility and recommends that you hire a Massachusetts social security disability attorney.
* Massachusetts Disability Resources and Advocacy Organizations- Created by OlmsteadRights.org, an advocacy group formed based on the landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision Olmstead v. L.C., this site has a massive list of links to all sorts of disability services, organizations, and information of interest for anyone needing help for someone with a disability.

Caregiver-Specific Resources

Caregivers are impacted just as much as the individual who was disabled, and often need help. There are many local organizations and support groups around that can help. Speaking to your doctors or therapists is a great place to start. Other local resources to check out include churches and religious organizations, libraries, and community services organizations.

But don't overlook global organizations that provide support online such as these:
* The Family Caregiver Alliance - This site offers support for anyone in a family caregiver role regardless of that family member's disability.
* ARCH National Respite Network - This is a group that can help you locate respite care in your area. Everyone needs a break sometimes and this group can help you find respite care you can feel confident in whether you need that care for a disabled child or an elderly parent.
* AARP - This organization is all about helping seniors live their best lives but they also have information and support for caregivers of those seniors.
* VA Caregiver Support - If you are caring for a veteran, some of their needs may be different than those of civilians. VA Caregiver Support can offer help and information specific to caregivers of veterans whether it is navigating the VA system or dealing with service-related health conditions and injuries.
* Well Spouse Association - The Well Spouse Association offers help and support for those who are the caregiver to their spouse. Most of us promise in our wedding vows that we will be there in sickness and in health but wanting to be there and knowing how to help our partners and be their advocate can take practice and support.

"This is just a sampling of the resources available out there for Massachusetts caregivers," says Austin. "Remember that you are not alone in this struggle and that there are others out there who have been through what you are going through and can help."

About Lift & Care Systems, Inc.

Lift & Care Systems, Inc is dedicated to bringing the highest quality of life to users and their caregivers by providing customized solutions that enhance the users' mobility. To achieve this goal, Lift & Care Systems offers a myriad of products, including: Body Supports, Slings, Mobile Lifters, Ceiling Systems, Wall-to-Wall Lift Systems, Wheelchair-to-Water Pool Lifts, Frictionless Slides, stair lifts, aluminum ramps, accessible shower stalls, lifts for cars/vans/SUV's with the Multi-Lift and Glide 'N Go.

Their products are used in private residential homes; semi-professional homes, such as group homes and day programs; and professional institutions, including nursing homes, hospitals and schools. Lift & Care Systems is the exclusive distributor of the SureHands patient lifts featuring the patented Body Support systems in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. In addition, Lift & Care Systems product line also includes National Ramp Systems and a broad array of stairlifts, for in home use.

Founded in 1993, Lift & Care Systems, Inc. is located at 7 Precinct Street in Lakeville, MA 02347. For additional information, or to arrange for a free personal consultation, please call 508-465-5254.

More information: https://www.liftandcaresystems.com/about-us/

Lift & Care Systems announces the release of the following Resource Sheet for Massachusetts Caregivers. "We tried to gather the best resources for anyone who has a loved one who has suffered from a disability," says Dave Austin, President of Lift & Care Systems.

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

NotaryCam CEO Rick Triola Praises ALTA, MBA and NAR for Issuing Model RON Executive Order

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- NotaryCam(R) Founder and CEO Rick Triola today hailed the efforts of the American Land Title Association (ALTA), Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) and National Association of Realtors (NAR) to provide guidance and standardization for states seeking to temporarily authorize the use of remote online notarization (RON) for real estate closings. To date, all but seven states have some form of RON legislation or executive order in effect.

"NotaryCam has observed first-hand for some time the simplicity, security and convenience RON brings to the real estate closing ceremony, and while we wish the circumstances surrounding this joint effort were quite different, we applaud these trade groups for banding together to provide states with the necessary language to fortify the legal underpinnings of remotely executed notarial acts and provide real estate professionals with a measure of standardization regarding the particulars of these orders," Triola said.

"Prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, only 22 states had passed RON legislation, and even fewer had those laws in effect at that time. Thus, the majority of states had to pass temporary executive orders to allow the notarial act to be completed remotely in some form or fashion, many of which only authorized remote ink notarization (RIN) rather than RON," Triola continued. "While RIN provided a necessary stopgap early on, it is not a scalable or sustainable solution, particularly for real estate transactions. With COVID-19 cases continuing to rise and a vaccine still a distant possibility, states would be well advised to extend and expand their current orders to make RON the de facto method of document notarization for the near future."

The MBA has developed a RON Resource Center, which includes the model executive order as well as a sample letter for governors explaining the benefits of RON and an FAQ on the model state executive order. To access the resource center, visit https://www.mba.org/audience/state-legislative-and-regulatory-resource-center/remote-online-notarization.

About NotaryCam

After pioneering the world's first multi-party/multi-state remote online notarization (RON), career real estate executive Rick Triola founded NotaryCam and completed the first mortgage remote online closing (ROC) in 2014. Today, NotaryCam is the leader in online notarization and mortgage eClosing solutions, having notarized documents worldwide for hundreds of thousands of customers in all 50 states and more than 146 countries. The company's patented eClose360(R) platform delivers the "perfect" online mortgage closing in every jurisdiction and supports all eClosing scenarios - RON, IPEN or Hybrids - with a flexible workflow for document recording and unparalleled identity verification, security and customer convenience. NotaryCam also proudly maintains an industry-leading 99.8 percent customer satisfaction rating.

Visit https://www.notarycam.com for additional information or to get a document notarized today.

*LOGO Link for Media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/18-0607s2p-notarycam-300dpi.jpg

NotaryCam Founder and CEO Rick Triola today hailed the efforts of the American Land Title Association (ALTA), Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) and National Association of Realtors (NAR) to provide guidance and standardization for states seeking to temporarily authorize the use of remote online notarization (RON) for real estate closings.

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

‘Special Twins’ Tour of Duty Makes History

HOWELL, N.J. /ScoopCloud/ -- Mid-Atlantic Multi-Specialty Surgical Group, L.L.C. (MAMSURG) is announcing that two of their providers, Vince and Vance Moss, Army Reservists, Colonels, and G.H.O.S.T. surgeons for U.S. Special Operations Command, are returning home from Afghanistan in support of Operation Resolute Support following a unique, unprecedented 6 month tour of duty, making history by serving with the special forces as forward trauma surgeons, side by side.

Family members serving simultaneously in combat is rare, but even more uncommon is twins serving together in the same combat theater with the U.S. Special Operations. This rarity has become a reality. Twin brothers, Colonels Vince and Vance Moss (49 years old) have served on active duty together with the 909th General Hour Offset Surgical Team (G.H.O.S.T.), U.S. Special Operations Command in Afghanistan since January 2020. This act alone has not been known to be done on record. They had the unique experience of providing trauma surgery for the special forces during their missions. While serving, Vince's wife gave birth to his son, making this homecoming even more special when he meets him for the first time.

"It's been unbelievable serving with Vance in combat with so many talented warriors. I think it allowed me, once and for all, the opportunity to show my baby brother who's the better surgeon. I'm certainly looking forward to getting home and meeting my son for the first time and sharing that experience with my brother," said Vince Moss.

"It's been a great experience serving with the special forces environment with my brother at my side. I can't truly put into words how to describe the many reactions we received when people saw us. It was quite extraordinary. I'm looking forward to meeting my nephew for the first time," said Vance Moss.

The twins are originally from the Washington D.C. area. Penn State and Temple graduates, they are in private practice in New Jersey. The Moss brothers have been in the Army Reserves for over 15 years and served multiple tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. They have received many accolades for their work including being named ABC World News Tonight "Person(s) of the Year" and multiple invites to the White House.

The Moss brothers are scheduled to be returning home tentatively on June 30, 2020.

For more information, visit: https://www.mamsurg.com/.

About MAMSURG, L.L.C.:

Based in Howell, New Jersey, MAMSURG, L.L.C. is a surgical group of board-certified surgeons skilled in a variety of specialized techniques from renal transplantation, general surgery, urology and thoracic surgery. More importantly, their dedication to providing top notch, large center quality of care to the communities of New Jersey and the military is at the top of their agenda. The practice was started by Vince and Vance Moss in 2005 which the goal of focusing on underprivileged populations. For more information, visit: https://www.mamsurg.com/.

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-07070s2p-Moss-Bros-2020-300dpi.jpg
*Photo caption: Surgeons/Colonels Vince (left) and Vance (right) Moss in an undisclosed location in Afghanistan with US Special Operations.

Mid-Atlantic Multi-Specialty Surgical Group, L.L.C. (MAMSURG) is announcing that two of their providers, Vince and Vance Moss, Army Reservists, Colonels, and G.H.O.S.T. surgeons for U.S. Special Operations Command, are returning home from Afghanistan in support of Operation Resolute Support following a unique, unprecedented 6 month tour of duty.

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

AutoAwards’ Loyalty Rewards Program Helped Grow Fred Beans’ Membership

ODESSA, Del. /ScoopCloud/ -- AutoAwards, a leading auto dealership marketing company, is happy to announce their client, Fred Beans' celebration of the redemption of the 10-millionth loyalty point. The prize? A year's worth of car payments. Customers who redeemed points last August - 546 in all - qualified for a drawing. The winner was a teacher who purchased two cars from a Fred Beans dealership the previous year.

The Fred Beans Family of Dealerships put in place AutoAwards' loyalty rewards program to help give back to the community they serve. The Fred Beans Family of Dealerships delivered the prize at just the right time to Central Bucks East ceramics teacher, Ann Huuki, who has three children in college and is planning a wedding with her daughter, Louise. The Fred Beans team surprised Huuki during a school meeting with news that the company would cover her car payments for a year. With this being a significant expense, she no longer needs to worry about these payments during a high-pressure time. It is a life-changing event, for which she is extremely grateful.

"We are always trying to connect with our customers in interesting ways, create excitement and more win-win situations," said Beth Beans Gilbert, Vice President of Fred Beans Automotive Group. "Our AutoRewards Loyalty program is an example of this, and we are proud to see it have such a positive impact."

Huuki, of Plumsteadville, Pa., is the grand-prize winner of a recent promotion run by the Fred Beans Family of Dealerships to celebrate the redemption of $10,000,000 in points in the company's AutoRewards Program. Randomly selected, Huuki won the prize.

The AutoAwards team behind the loyalty program for the Fred Beans Family of Dealerships' designed the program to thank loyal customers. The customer rewards program has been in place since 2003 and motivated tens of thousands of car-buying customers to return to the group's dealerships to put more than $11.6 million in earned rewards toward down payments on vehicles. The Fred Beans Family of Dealerships has established a remarkable reputation for being honest, transparent, and customer-centric.

AutoAwards created the loyalty rewards program to be simple for customers to understand and participate. Members earn 15 percent in rewards points on purchases with the swipe of their key tag. Each point equals one dollar. Rewards members may redeem up to $2,000 in points per vehicle purchase or $250 towards their collision center deductible. Members also enjoy discounts from more than 200 area merchants and special perks such as exclusive events with the extended Fred Beans Family.

Gilbert continued, "Our AutoRewards Program is our way of thanking customers for trusting us with their business, and promotion like this allows us to both celebrate and give back to our most loyal customers. Ann Huuki and her family are repeat Beans customers, and we could not be more appreciative of their loyalty and excited to present them with this grand prize."

Huuki is undoubtedly a living example of both the loyalty and excitement the program has brought. Huuki remarked she was "overwhelmed and surprised" to learn she had won the prize. Her coworkers, who helped celebrate the win alongside her, said that she was "totally deserving" because "good things should happen to good people."

Membership in Fred Beans' AutoRewards program - in place at the group's 20 dealerships in Pennsylvania and New Jersey - has grown to more than 323,000 members who have earned nearly $35 million worth of points since the program's inception, according to company officials. The program, created and administered by AutoAwards, has helped thousands of customers for more than ten years.

"The program works because customers know those points go to waste if they buy a car from other dealerships," said the enthusiastic Gilbert. "It's a great way to marry customers to the dealerships."

Stories of sustained loyalty to the dealerships who have AutoAwards' loyalty programs are common. Customer, Art Ehlo, applied $2,000 in points to his down payment on a 2019 Ford Fusion. It's the 18th car he's purchased from Fred Beans since the 1980s.

The program now includes free rotating monthly gifts from local merchants and discounts from about 175 local businesses. Free member-appreciation events include movie nights, minor-league baseball games, skating outings, and pictures with Santa during the holidays.

AutoAwards helps dealerships establish their rewards programs in exclusive marketing areas. By working with one auto dealership in their marketing area, AutoAwards helps them build partnerships with local businesses through their Keep It Local program.

To find out more information about AutoAwards' loyalty program, visit http://www.autoawards.com/

About AutoAwards:

Since our founding in 1991, AutoAwards has been widely recognized as the industry-leader in automotive and marine loyalty marketing, earning longstanding relationships with many of the industry's most successful dealer groups and OEMs.

Since marketing for automotive dealerships has changed in the past 25 years, AutoAwards understands the #1 predictive factor for dealer growth and profitability. Customer loyalty is the most successful way to build revenue. Hundreds of automotive groups use and recommend loyalty programs for dealers as the way to drive brand loyalty. AutoAwards has always recognized the need for top notch, highly creative, effective loyalty strategies in large and small businesses alike.

For this reason, our automotive loyalty marketing expertise is engineered to meet the individual needs and goals of any business - regardless of its size. Contact us online to talk about dealer loyalty or call 302-696-6000. Visit: http://www.autoawards.com/ .

*(LOGO 72dpi: http://www.autoawards.com/wp-content/themes/auto-awards/images/logo/logo-inner.png )

Video: https://youtu.be/FB0s655E740

AutoAwards, a leading auto dealership marketing company, is happy to announce their client, Fred Beans' celebration of the redemption of the 10-millionth loyalty point. The prize? A year's worth of car payments. Customers who redeemed points last August - 546 in all - qualified for a drawing.

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

IDS Applauds Mortgage, Real Estate Industry Trade Groups for Their Development of Draft Model Remote Online Notarization Executive Order

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah /ScoopCloud/ -- IDS Vice President and General Manager Mark Mackey today commended the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), American Land Title Association (ALTA) and National Association of Realtors (NAR) for the groups' development of a draft model remote online notarization (RON) executive order to bring consistency to the various temporary measures non-RON-approved states have issued as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"The challenges of conducting in-person real estate closings during the pandemic have certainly highlighted the need for a legal, remote option for document notarization, and while states have done their best to create temporary solutions to address this issue, the mortgage and real estate industries can still greatly benefit from better standardization across these temporary orders," Mackey said. "As the three groups representing the interests of the major players in the real estate transaction - mortgage lenders, title/settlement companies and real estate agents - these entities are uniquely suited to craft a model that addresses the specific challenges of implementing RON for real estate transactions, and on behalf of IDS, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to these groups for addressing this issue head-on."

As noted in a July 1 article in MBA NewsLink, the MBA's official electronic publication, "The model executive order, designed for use by state governors, proposes legal protection of remote notarizations to preserve the public's health and well-being in light of COVID-19. The order emphasizes use of electronic documents and virtual communications to satisfy the legal requirements of notarizations." The draft model also seeks to provide greater legal certainty for mortgage transactions conducted using remote ink notarization (RIN), which many states opted to approve in their respective temporary authorizations rather than RON.

"While RON is certainly the preferable of the two methods, it is easy to see, in light of the larger implementation hurdle RON presents, why states would opt for RIN in their initial round of temporary measures," Mackey added. "However, states should view RIN as just that - a temporary measure to help address immediate concerns - while also committing to the goal of putting the legislative mechanisms in place to make RON the long-term solution."

For more information on the draft model RON executive order, visit the MBA RON Resource Center at https://www.mba.org/audience/state-legislative-and-regulatory-resource-center/remote-online-notarization.

About IDS, Inc.

IDS, a Reynolds and Reynolds company, was founded in 1986 in Salt Lake City, Utah, and is a nationwide provider of mortgage documents and compliance. IDS services include eSignatures, closing documents, initial disclosures, document fulfillment and integration with leading loan origination systems and eClosing platforms. The IDS flagship doc prep solution, idsDoc, is recognized in the industry for its ability to be customized to meet specific lender needs, particularly in regard to major industry compliance changes. (https://info.idsdoc.com/)

IDS Vice President and General Manager Mark Mackey today commended the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), American Land Title Association (ALTA) and National Association of Realtors (NAR) for the groups' development of a draft model remote online notarization (RON) executive order to bring consistency to the various temporary measures non-RON-approved states have issued as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Related link: https://info.idsdoc.com/

Heartwood Assisted Living launches Re-Branding of Website and Service Offerings

PLEASANT HILL, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Heartwood has been a long-standing staple for Residential assisted living among San Antonio Locals. With its Mid-Century modern touches and at-home feel, seniors feel as though it's a blast from the past in their day to daycare.

The management of Heartwood Assisted Living thought it was time to align the facilities design to its presence online. Their website heartwoodseniors.com was outdated and did not match the high-end offerings Heartwood now serves.

Local South Texas Residents will enjoy a midcentury logo, and the new Heartwood Assisted Living Website to navigate for care assessments, brochures, and a virtual tour.

Heartwood is a Type B Facility and considered a "small" ALF (Assisted Living Facility) since they serve less than 16 residents at their location (Via TALA). Large ALF's are considered anyone serving 17 residents or more.

Michelle Gheliuc at Heartwood States, "Even though HHS state requirements let facilities have a staffing ratio of 1:16 residents, we do our best to provide the very best care; because of this, Heartwood will always have a staffing ratio of 1:3."

Additionally, Heartwood at relaunch has added additional services to their offering. This concierge service will enable seniors not to have to leave for mundane things or worry about venturing to public places cause of the current climate with COVID-19. Even with COVID happening, residents can still have family visits outside, provided they practice social distancing. These procedures are in place to ensure that all residents stay safe and healthy until it passes.

If needed, seniors can have toiletry provided, medical transportation to medical appointments, and even pay for short-term respite care. If someone needs short respite care, Heartwood Assisted Living will still give all regular amenities to its residents as if it is their own family.

As COVID-19 ramps up in numbers of positive cases, Heartwood has put safety measures in place to ensure the safety of all residents. Family members can continue to visit outside while maintaining social distancing requirements. If anyone has also traveled, per HHS Texas Guidelines, 14 Day quarantines are mandatory as well.

Full details can be found at the references above. Additionally, Heartwood's new website can be found at: https://www.heartwoodassistedliving.com

Heartwood has been a long-standing staple for Residential assisted living among San Antonio Locals. With its Mid-Century modern touches and at-home feel, seniors feel as though it's a blast from the past in their day to daycare.

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

Oscilla Power, Inc. Announces Launch of MicroVentures Investment Opportunity

SEATTLE, Wash. /ScoopCloud/ -- Oscilla Power, Inc. is pleased to announce the launch of a private placement offering in accordance with Regulation Crowdfunding (Reg. CF) adopted by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) through MicroVentures.

More information can be found at: https://app.microventures.com/crowdfunding/oscilla-power

Oscilla Power, Inc. is developing advanced technology to extract energy from ocean waves. They are developing the Triton and Triton-C wave energy converters that promise to substantially lower the cost of extracting energy from the ocean. The ocean wave energy market is projected to grow at a compound annual rate of 24% to over $15 billion by 2027.

Oscilla Power was founded in 2009 and has received over $20M in federal and over $5M in private funding to develop their technology. They are currently completing construction of their first commercial-scale system, the Triton-C, a 100kW wave energy converter which is expected to be tested in Hawaii next year. This system is currently being constructed in Seattle at the Snow & Company shipyard.

The Triton-C has been substantially funded through the US Department of Energy's Water Power Technologies office, who have committed over $5 Million to date towards the design, development and construction.

According to Oscilla Power's President, Balky Nair, "The bulk of the funds from this new Reg CF raise are intended to go towards completing the final outfitting and early activities towards deployment of the Triton-C in Hawaii."

Oscilla Power expects that the successful demonstration of the 100kW Triton-C wave energy system will be one of the last steps needed to commercialize their wave energy technology and will be a crucial stepping stone to prove the success of the 1 MW utility-scale Triton system in the coming years.

About Oscilla Power, Inc.:

Oscilla Power, Inc. is an ocean wave energy technology company that is developing an advanced wave energy converter aiming to unlock the tremendous renewable energy potential of the world's oceans. For more information, visit: https://oscillapower.com/.

About MicroVenture Marketplace, Inc.:

MicroVenture Marketplace ("MicroVentures") is a registered broker/dealer and member of FINRA and SIPC. MicroVentures offers the sale of private placements in early and late stage companies in various industries, facilitates secondary transactions in private companies, and serves as a crowdfunding intermediary in accordance with Regulation CF. For more information, please visit: https://microventures.com/.

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0706s2p-oscilla-power-300dpi.jpg
*Image caption: Oscilla Power are currently completing construction of their first commercial-scale system, the Triton-C, a 100kW wave energy converter.

Oscilla Power, Inc. is pleased to announce the launch of a private placement offering in accordance with Regulation Crowdfunding (Reg. CF) adopted by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) through MicroVentures.

Related link: https://oscillapower.com/

Globest Trading Inc. and Internet Brand Development Resolve Pending Lawsuit with Canon

GLENDORA, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Canon Inc., Globest Trading Inc., and Globest's parent company, Internet Brand Development (HK) Limited ("IBD"), have entered into a settlement agreement to amicably resolve the pending lawsuit between Canon and Globest in the Central District of California.

The lawsuit involved the compatible versions of Globest's toner cartridge models CF210X, CF211A, CF212A, CF213A, CB540A, CB541A, CB542A, CB543A, CE320A, CE321A, CE322A, CE323A, CRG-116, CRG-131H, CE410X, CE411A, CE412A, CE413A, CF380X, CF381A, CF382A, CF383A, CC530A, CC531A, CC532A, CC533A, CRG-118, PTCF210A, PTCF211A, PTCF212A, and PTCF213A, which are compatible with Canon toner cartridge models 116, 118, 131, and 131II and HP toner cartridge models 125A, 128A, 131A, 131X, 304A, 305A, 305X, 312A, and 312X, and seven patents that Canon alleged were infringed.

Globest disputed Canon's claim and filed a counterclaim for invalidity, which Canon denied.

To resolve the dispute, Globest agreed to a consent judgment and permanent injunction in which it agreed not to sell the compatible versions of the cartridges listed above that Canon alleged infringed its seven patents, or any similar version that infringes those patents. As part of the settlement, IBD and its affiliates also agreed not to sell those toner cartridges in the U.S. and various other countries.

Nothing in the settlement agreement prevents Globest or IBD from making, using, selling or offering for sale toner cartridges that do not infringe Canon's patents.

The seven patents at issue in the lawsuit are U.S. Patent Nos. 7,869,740 B2, 8,165,494 B2, 8,588,646 B2, 8,971,760 B2, 9,494,916 B2, 9,857,763 B2, and 10,162,304 B2.

Globest Trading is registered in California and sells ink and toner cartridges. IBD is registered in Hong Kong and its primary business is electronic products, office supplies, clothing, instruments and apparatuses and import/export.

Canon Inc., Globest Trading Inc., and Globest's parent company, Internet Brand Development (HK) Limited ("IBD"), have entered into a settlement agreement to amicably resolve the pending lawsuit between Canon and Globest in the Central District of California.

Current Builders Announces New Affordable Senior Housing Project in Manatee County

SARASOTA, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Current Builders today announced their newest project Reef at Riviera, located in Manatee County, Florida. The general contractor has formed a joint venture with the developer Dominium Inc., based in Plymouth, Minnesota, to build a new affordable senior housing project in the City of Palmetto.

The architecture firm is the Bessolo Design Group. Construction recently began on the $33 million, 5-story, 224-unit multifamily housing project, and anticipated completion is late Fall 2021.

"We are honored to be partnering with Dominium on this project," said Chip Angenendt, Current Builders' VP West Coast Division. "This is a great project for our company because it provides a valuable service to the residents of the City of Palmetto. We look forward to building a successful relationship with one of our country's premier leaders in the affordable housing arena."

The main building will feature one-two-and three-bedroom units. Current Builders will also be constructing the ancillary site structures including a 1-story detached garage (with 10 stalls) and a small 1-story maintenance building. The scope also includes all the site-work, site lighting, paving, drainage, underground utilities, landscaping, and infrastructure improvements required for the complete turnkey construction of this project. Reef at Riviera will be an age and income restricted property.

For more information please visit http://www.currentbuilders.com/

About Current Builders:

Current Builders is an award-winning general contractor, established in 1972 with average annual revenues in excess of $250 million. The firm specializes in multi-family residential projects, healthcare facilities, office/warehouse buildings, commercial distribution facilities, parking garages, interior build-outs, interior and exterior renovations, all included as turnkey projects inclusive of the construction of the buildings and related site work.

Media Contact:
Kay Renz
Kay@KRPRmediagroup.com
561-654-8151

Current Builders today announced their newest project Reef at Riviera, located in Manatee County, Florida. The general contractor has formed a joint venture with the developer Dominium Inc., based in Plymouth, Minnesota, to build a new affordable senior housing project in the City of Palmetto.

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

Despite Uncertain Times, Avatar Construction Continues to Thrive with Rapid Expansion of Commercial Construction Services Across Northeast

BOSTON, Mass. /ScoopCloud/ -- Avatar Construction, Inc. announces continued expansion and record-breaking growth in 2020. While most companies have experienced a drop in business due to current events, Avatar has experienced a massive increase in both new projects and revenue. Avatar has quickly become one of the most sought-after contractors in the Northeast with its comprehensive service and client focused approach.

Avatar Construction is a forward-thinking commercial general contractor that has developed a proven formula responsible for its rapid growth. "We have always set ourselves apart from what clients have come to expect from a general contractor," said Nazar Vincent, Avatar's President. "Our commitment to providing value over success has proven immensely beneficial for both our clients and Avatar Construction. By building and maintaining a team-oriented relationship between Avatar, the client and all subcontractors involved in each project, the Avatar Team can focus efforts directly on delivering a high-quality product on time and on budget."

The Greater Boston corporate office specializes in private and public sector projects and is on pace to close fiscal year 2020 with over $20M in revenue. Future projections set Avatar on a clear path to exceed $100M by fiscal year 2025. "I attribute our continued growth to our client over company philosophy paired with our obsession to be the best in the industry," said Vincent. "We are always laser focused on giving our clients exactly what they need and more."

About Avatar Construction

Avatar Construction is an award-winning commercial general contractor providing comprehensive design-build construction management services for clients in various markets across the Northeastern United States. Founded in 1999, Avatar is a privately held employee-owned company that has quickly grown into a multi-million-dollar organization, known for its innovation and commitment to providing value over success.

Avatar Construction, Inc. is headquartered in Waltham Massachusetts and can be reached by calling (617) 714-5773 or through the corporate website.

Learn more:
* https://avatarconstructioninc.com/
* https://www.facebook.com/AvatarConstructionCorporation
* https://www.instagram.com/avatarconstructioncorp/
* https://www.linkedin.com/company/avatar-construction-boston

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Avatar Construction, Inc. announces continued expansion and record-breaking growth in 2020. While most companies have experienced a drop in business due to current events, Avatar has experienced a massive increase in both new projects and revenue.

Related link: https://avatarconstructioninc.com/

Significant Changes in Airline Pet Travel Options: Company Offers Safe Alternative

TUCSON, Ariz. /ScoopCloud/ -- 25 years ago, when Happy Tails Travel began shipping pets by air, it was a simple process with many flight options and minimal restrictions. Slowly the requirements increased. This is especially true over the past 2 years, during which time many airlines suspended flying pets for a period of time to improve pet safety and decrease airline liability. These changes continue to rise.

The onset of the worldwide pandemic, COVID-19, has sent flights for pets to the lowest point ever, with minimal options. As many airlines have significantly reduced flights for people, this has greatly impacted pets flying as live animal manifested cargo. Pets arrive at airports to be turned away and their owners are frantic to find a way to get their pet to their new home, adopt a pet, get their new puppy from the breeder and more.

The options become even more restricted during the summer, as airlines have very strict temperature guidelines for pets to fly.

The demand for an alternative to air travel is unprecedented. People who have always flown their pets may not be able to at this time or may be concerned about meeting qualifications including: the size or breed of pets, temperatures, or lack of direct flight options. To meet the need and demand, two years ago, Happy Tails Travel started developing a solid business model of private, customized ground travel throughout the contiguous United States.

"Pet travel by air was the only service we offered for 23 years as it was a great way to get pets to their new home safely and quickly," says Bridget Monrad, owner of Happy Tails Travel. "However, with flight changes, people's decreased interest in airline travel for pets, and to offer a service with fewer moving pieces, we decided to branch out to offer an alternative service for pet parent needs."

As the COVID-19 Pandemic continues to impact our lives in many ways, the trickle-down effect will continue for years. Changes are everywhere on how we will continue with life. One thing that will not change is the need for people to move to new homes and their love for their pets and desire to do what is best for them.

Learn more at: https://www.happytailstravel.com/

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/_WeWRM2rtQ0

For further information on this topic, contact Bridget Monrad at Bridget@HappyTailsTravel.com

25 years ago, when Happy Tails Travel began shipping pets by air, it was a simple process with many flight options and minimal restrictions. Slowly the requirements increased. This is especially true over the past 2 years, during which time many airlines suspended flying pets for a period of time to improve pet safety and decrease airline liability. These changes continue to rise.

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

ARMCO Executive to Co-Host QC Webinar through MBA’s Education Department

DENVER, Colo. /ScoopCloud/ -- ACES Risk Management (ARMCO), the leading provider of enterprise quality management and control software for the financial services industry, announced that Executive Vice President of Operations, Sharon Reichhardt will share her expertise on loan quality and risk management during an upcoming webinar sponsored by the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA).

On Thursday, July 9, Sharon Reichhardt will present alongside Jennifer Whip, principal at Cambridge One, LLC, on the topic "Protecting Your Profitability Through Quality Control" from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. ET. The webinar, which will include a moderated question and answer session featuring information valuable to c-level executive, compliance and QC officers, and operations managers. Discussion topics will include but are not limited to best practices in governing the QC process, impactful strategies to ensure loan investment quality and leveraging the power of data through effective reporting.

"With rates at a near all-time low and volumes remaining high, lenders are enjoying a sustained period of profitability - one which they would be wise to protect given the cyclical nature of the mortgage business," Reichhardt said. "Our goal with the webinar is to educate lenders on how a solid quality control process can help mitigate loan defect risk and improve investor confidence in loan quality, and we offer our sincerest thanks to the MBA for providing us the opportunity to share this valuable information with its membership."

To register for the webinar, visit https://www.mba.org/store/events/webinar/protecting-your-profitability-through-quality-control. The webinar is free to all MBA members. Non-MBA members can use the code "QC200" to receive a discount on registration.

About ARMCO

ACES Risk Management (ARMCO) is the leading provider of enterprise quality management and control software for the financial services industry. Three of the top five independent mortgage lenders and two of the top five U.S. commercial banks rely on ACES Audit Technology(TM) to improve audit throughput and quality while controlling costs. Unlike other quality control platforms, only ACES delivers Flexible Audit Technology, which gives independent mortgage lenders and financial institutions the ability to easily manage and customize ACES to meet their business needs without having to rely on IT or other outside resources. Using a customer-centric approach, ARMCO clients get responsive support and access to our experts to maximize their investment. For more information, visit www.armco.us or call

ACES Risk Management (ARMCO), the leading provider of enterprise quality management and control software for the financial services industry, announced that Executive Vice President of Operations, Sharon Reichhardt will share her expertise on loan quality and risk management during an upcoming webinar sponsored by the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA)

Related link: https://www.armco.us/

DataNumen Office Repair 4.8 Makes It Easy to Recover Damaged or Corrupted Microsoft Office Files

HONG KONG /ScoopCloud/ -- An upgraded version of a comprehensive suite for MS Office file recovery is now available - DataNumen Office Repair 4.8. It's a full suite of free repair and recovery tools that includes: Access Repair, Excel Repair, Word Repair, Outlook Repair and PowerPoint Recovery.

A good data recovery tool can save the day if things go wrong. In fact, the most important factor for a file recovery software is the recovery rate. According to a competitive comparison performed by DataNumen, each piece of the software in its suite has the best recovery rate in the industry. It's also convenient because it can handle nearly all Office files without having to download and install other individual software - one by one.

DataNumen's award-winning data recovery software has 10+ million users and provides them with peace of mind. An extremely simple interface allows them to minimize losses in file corruption, while saving time and money.

"With DataNumen Office Repair, users will get the best safeguard for their Office files in the world," Alan Chen, president and CEO, says.

Among DataNumen's distinguished customers are: Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Facebook, Samsung, FedEx, Walmart, Ford and many more.

And its many users sing praises for its products. One customer said Outlook Repair was "sheer magic," while another said Word Repair was the best file content recovery solution he's tested.

To learn more about the product features, visit: https://www.datanumen.com/office-repair/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DataNumen
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/datanumen
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DataNumen

About DataNumen

With 20+ years of experience, DataNumen has a four-star rating on CNET and is the world leader in data recovery technologies. It provides data recovery solutions including its award-winning data recovery software products, professional data recovery services and software development kit (SDK) for developers. Comprised of a team of highly-skilled data recovery professionals with diverse specialties and innovative ideas, it's sold data recovery software in more than 130 countries and to many of the largest businesses in the world.

For more information, visit https://www.datanumen.com/.

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*Caption: DataNumen Office Repair.

An upgraded version of a comprehensive suite for MS Office file recovery is now available - DataNumen Office Repair 4.8. It's a full suite of free repair and recovery tools that includes: Access Repair, Excel Repair, Word Repair, Outlook Repair and PowerPoint Recovery.

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

Hank Metzger is Top Refinance Originator at American Financing Corporation

AURORA, Colo. /ScoopCloud/ -- Hank Metzger of American Financing Corporation is excited to announce that Scotsman Guide ranked him number four refinance originator in 2019.

Metzger, who's worked in the mortgage business for nearly 20 years, was ranked among entries from more than 6,000 mortgage professionals across the country. To be eligible for initial consideration in Scotsman Guide's Top Originators rankings, originators must have had at least $40 million in loan volume or 100 closed home loans for the 2019 calendar year.

After receiving submissions, Scotsman Guide required written verification of top entrants' volume data from a certified public accountant, the chief financial officer at the originator's company or a similar source.

Metzger's impressive roster of refinance loans closed tallied 914. He also ranked number 11 for U.S. refinance dollar volume at 250 million. Since being in the mortgage business, he's closed more than 1.5 billion in home loans and ranks number one loan originator in the state of Colorado.

"As a senior loan officer at American Financing, I thrive on helping clients find a loan program tailored to their specific needs while working with them throughout the process to ensure a quick, efficient and smooth experience," Metzger says. "I'm thrilled to be recognized for my accomplishments by the Scotsman Guide."

The 2019 Scotsman Guide list, which ranks the nation's top mortgage producers, appears in Scotsman Guide's April 2020 residential edition, and the rankings are available online at: https://www.scotsmanguide.com/rankings/top-originators.

For more information about Hank Metzger: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hank-metzger/

About American Financing Corporation

Founded in 2001, Colorado family-owned, American Financing Corporation is known for its dedicated mortgage consultants, custom loan programs and faster than industry average closings. It's Colorado's number one loan originator and its mission is to empower families with personalized mortgage solutions that achieve life goals.

For more information: https://www.americanfinancing.net/

Hank Metzger of American Financing Corporation is excited to announce that Scotsman Guide ranked him number four refinance originator in 2019.

Related link: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hank-metzger/

Black Underrepresentation Worsens in Management, STEM Jobs

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- With Black Lives Matter and other protests against racial discrimination, discussions have broadened to include underrepresentation of blacks in management positions in the workplace. Despite decades of concern over the lack of diversity in management in U.S. companies, and overall employment growth from 2016 to 2019, the latest job index data shows black underrepresentation in management occupations has worsened over the past three years, Dr. Nathan Hardy finds. Among the worst: First-line supervisors of police.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and Census Bureau data was used to create a job representation index to measure over- and underrepresentation of gender and race groups for hundreds of occupations, which may be due to various factors such as discrimination. Bottom 25 occupations where blacks are underrepresented are mostly management (e.g., advertising and promotions managers, farmers and agricultural managers, construction managers, editors) and professional STEM and doctor jobs that require college degrees or certifications (e.g., statistical assistants, physical scientists, biological scientists, dentists).

Where are blacks overrepresented and have more success in landing jobs? Dominating the list of the Top 25 occupations in which blacks are overrepresented are government and healthcare jobs, and jobs that require little education and deal directly with the public like postal service clerks, bailiffs and corrections officers, taxi and bus drivers, phlebotomists, personal care aides, and barbers. With COVID-19 especially hurting these public facing jobs that cannot be done remotely, blacks have in turn been hurt in high numbers. Growing black overrepresentation since 2016 in many of these jobs has exacerbated the problem.

"The government has long been a leader in equal opportunity employment for blacks-it is time for businesses to step up its black employment efforts," Dr. Nathan Hardy says.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Dr. Nathan Hardy is an Assistant Professor of Marketing at Neumann University in Aston, Pa. in suburban Philadelphia. He is a member of the Insights Association and Neumann University Diversity Council. Dr. Hardy developed the job representation index to simplify comparisons between population groups and years and occupations.

ABOUT THE JOB REPRESENTATION INDEX:

The job representation index measures representation of gender, race, and other population groups in hundreds of jobs based on United States Bureau of Labor Statistics and Census Bureau data. An index score of 100 indicates normal employment equal to the population percentage of the group, less than 100 indicates underrepresentation, and more than 100 indicates overrepresentation. Historical index scores can help find areas of discrimination, how job initiatives change job trends for gender and race groups, how these groups migrate in and out of jobs, among other uses.

CHARTS RELATED TO THIS STORY:
Top 25 Overrepresented Jobs For Blacks Table Graphic: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NiHfPbfiIbUcBjRRCid7MJld6gQ3FjVn/view?usp=sharing

Bottom 25 Underrepresented Jobs For Blacks Table Graphic: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1CsDJZi7oJmSttphRuF8koigKiqx5-gSV/view?usp=sharing

Top 25 Overrepresented Jobs For Blacks % Gain Table Graphic: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bvZirMgyCp3YlvVCu7FiW8x9l12gsC-F/view?usp=sharing

Bottom 25 Underrepresented Jobs For Blacks % Loss Table Graphic: https://drive.google.com/file/d/15qXuy2Ap7B8irTkHTSZe_TSTr67RcwE6/view?usp=sharing

PHILADELPHIA, Pa., July 2, 2020 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- With Black Lives Matter and other protests against racial discrimination, discussions have broadened to include underrepresentation of blacks in management positions in the workplace. The latest job index data shows black underrepresentation in management occupations has worsened over the past three years, Dr. Nathan Hardy finds.

TCIA (Tree Care Industry Association) has Canceled This Year’s 2020 TCI Expo that was Scheduled for October

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- The 2020 TCIA Expo was slated to take place in Baltimore, but has been canceled according to Synertree, LLC. This comes as a result of all major events being canceled in Baltimore due to COVID-19. The Expo is the world's largest tree industry event, drawing over 4,000 tree care industry professionals from across the globe.

Over 250 exhibitors showcase the latest in equipment, marketing, products, and services. Attendees also enjoy live tree climbing demonstrations, skill competitions, and seminars on safety and arboriculture. Among last year's exhibitors was TCIA member Don Dowd, owner and founder of Tree Leads Today. "We are disappointed about this annual opportunity to see our nationwide tree company partners. Fortunately, we've kept our partners busier than ever with 2020 being our most explosive year in lead generation."

Tree Leads Today sets themselves apart from other marketing companies by supplying their partners with leads that are 100% exclusive so leads aren't shared with other companies in their partners' reserved zip codes. They work with the largest tree companies such as Davey and Bartlett Tree Experts as well as small, startup companies.

Anthony Romeo, founder of Synertree, looked forward to attending the Expo to network with growth-oriented companies like his.

Synertree offers consulting and training to tree company owners nationwide. As a lifelong tree care professional and former tree company owner, Anthony has developed an unmatched skill set of expertise that fills a much-needed void in the industry.

Synertree equips tree company owners with systems, processes, and employee training that are essential for continual growth in this competitive industry. As Anthony describes, "We transform owners that are mistakenly pouring energy into every aspect of their business - the physical labor, follow-up services, training employees - into expert delegators with self-sufficient staff and systems. By getting to know how each of our tree companies operates, we implement systems and processes that maximize efficiency."

The Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA) is made up of approximately 2,300 tree care firms and affiliates across the globe, supplying them with publications, conferences and resources on increasing profits and staying educated on evolving regulatory standards.

TCIA announced they plan to hold a virtual event in early 2021. Nonetheless, there's nothing like connecting in person. As Dowd states, "The TCIA Expo is always a great event, whether you are in tree service marketing, equipment manufacturing, equipment financing, tree care education, or tree company ownership." Dowd and others look forward to the next live TCIA Expo.

Tree Leads Today:
http://www.TreeLeadsToday.com
610-601-9100
Client form: https://www.treeleadstoday.biz/client-form/

Synertree:
https://www.synertree.net/
215-657-8733

TCIA (Tree Care Industry Association):
https://www.tcia.org/

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The 2020 TCIA Expo was slated to take place in Baltimore, but has been canceled according to Synertree, LLC. This comes as a result of all major events being canceled in Baltimore due to COVID-19. The Expo is the world's largest tree industry event, drawing over 4,000 tree care industry professionals from across the globe.

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

Top Housing Officials and Execs to Speak At #NEXTDC20

WASHINGTON, D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- NEXT Mortgage Events, LLC (NEXT(tm)) and Housing Finance Strategies have announced an all-star lineup of Washington and housing industry luminaries that are confirmed to speak at #NEXTDC20, a virtual executive summit that will take place on November 10, 2020.

Hundreds of top lending executives are expected to attend the second annual event. Speakers include:
* Brian Brooks, Acting Comptroller of the Currency, OCC
* Terry Sullivan, Founder, Firehouse Strategies
* Bill Emerson, Vice Chairman, Quicken Loans and Rock Holdings, Inc.
* Lisa Rice, CEO of National Fair Housing Alliance
* Bob Broeksmit, President and CEO of Mortgage Bankers Association
* Lindsey Johnson, President, USMI
* Jay Bray, President, CEO and Chairman, Mr. Cooper
* Sanjiv Das, CEO, Caliber Home Loans
* Bernadette Kogler, CEO, RiskSpan
* Stan Middleman, CEO Freedom mortgage
* Diane Yentel, President and CEO of the National Low-Income Housing Coalition
* Brent Chandler, CEO and founder, FormFree

"It's easy to see why so many have already signed up to attend #NEXTDC20," said Faith Schwartz, president of Housing Finance Strategies and co-founder of the NEXTDC series. "With so much on the line this November, executives need experts to break down the election's implications to housing finance, regulations and the future of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. We're looking forward to some lively and informative discussions."

The #NEXTDC series is a joint production of NEXT Mortgage Events and Housing Finance Strategies.

Registration is open at no cost to housing industry professionals at https://nextmortgagenews.com/nextdc20.

About NEXT Mortgage Events LLC

In January 2018, NEXT Mortgage Events broke the mortgage industry's unspoken barriers that have limited women's access to competitive intel, when it introduced NEXT, the women's executive mortgage summit. NEXT is an exclusive boutique symposium that takes place over two days. The tech-centric content focuses on competitive intel from and for senior lending executives. Roughly 85-90% of NEXT's lender attendees hold a title of VP or higher and approximately 85% of attendees are women. NEXT's flagship events, the #NEXTWINTER and #NEXTSUMMER series are held twice a year, in winter and summer. NEXT also hosts the #NEXTDC series in partnership with Housing Finance Strategies. For more information visit NEXTMortgageNews.com, follow @NEXTmtgEvents or email info@NEXTmortgageEvents.com.

About Housing Finance Strategies

Housing Finance Strategies is a small woman-owned business founded in 2016 to provide Strategic Advisory Services, Government and Industry Relations, Public Policy Expertise, Roundtable and Event Management and Professional Speaking Services. The firm brings 25+ years of expertise to the forefront of mortgage, including leading fintech change, advising on GSE reform and ensuring non-bank readiness for regulatory oversight. For more information, visit HousingFinanceStrategies.com, follow @HousingFinanceStrategies or email admin@housingfinancestrategies.com.

NEXT Mortgage Events, LLC (NEXT) and Housing Finance Strategies have announced an all-star lineup of Washington and housing industry luminaries that are confirmed to speak at #NEXTDC20, a virtual executive summit that will take place on November 10, 2020.

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

COVID-19 and Black Lives Matter Disproportionately Affecting Black Moms in America

COCKEYSVILLE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- June's first-ever State of Black Mothers In America became the largest conference dedicated to this audience in the world, says event co-host Christine Michel Carter. With nearly 2,000 attendees, it surpassed the attendance of the previous title holder by more than three-fold. The State Of Black Mothers In America also raised nearly $15,000 in sponsorship to non-profit organizations supporting Black moms, including the Girl Scouts Beyond Bars program.

Sponsored by Google, McDonald's, and several other organizations, the State Of Black Mothers In America was hosted by Christine Michel Carter, author and the #1 global voice for working moms, Blessing Adesiyan, the founder of Mother Honestly and Neferteri Plessy, the founder of Single Moms Planet. The co-hosts are all millennial Black moms and specialists in the maternal workforce, benefits and finance industries, respectively. The event was held on Juneteenth (June 19) and included other prominent Black mom speakers, including Devi Brown.

According to Forbes, Black women are disproportionately affected by the events in 2020 to date. The event discussed these challenges, along with ongoing unconscious biases in the workplace, police brutality, and recent civil unrest due to the killing of George Floyd.

* Statistically speaking, since California's stay at home orders went into effect on March 19, black women in that state have spent nearly 120 hours more on child care than their white counterparts.
* Black moms are more likely to participate in the workforce than moms of any other race, and about 85% of black mothers are the primary, sole, or co-breadwinner for their families, but in 2017, they were making only 54 cents compared to white dads' dollar.
* According to research in the New York Times, "Black women are three to four times as likely to die from pregnancy-related causes as their white counterparts," with racism playing a direct role.
* Black women also spend nearly three times more hours per week caring for elderly or sick relatives, compared to just the 12 hours white women spend.

For more information or to speak with attendees, sponsors, or conference hosts, please email Kylah Langston at langstonpublicrelations@gmail.com.

Learn more about Christine Michel Carter: https://christinemichelcarter.com/

Learn more about State of Black Mothers in America event: https://hopin.to/events/the-state-of-black-mothers-in-america

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0701s2p-blackmothers-300dpi.jpg
*Caption: State of Black Mothers In America is now the largest conference for black moms in the world (Credit: Pexels.com).

June's first-ever State of Black Mothers In America became the largest conference dedicated to this audience in the world, says event co-host Christine Michel Carter. With nearly 2,000 attendees, it surpassed the attendance of the previous title holder by more than three-fold.

Related link: https://christinemichelcarter.com/

AARP Maryland Seeks 2020 Andrus Award for Community Service Nominees

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- AARP Maryland is continuing to accept nominations for its 2020 Andrus Award for Community Service, which honor a Marylander over the age of 50, who is sharing their experience, talent, and skills to enrich the lives of their community members. The deadline for submissions is July 15, 2020.

"AARP Maryland is excited to shine a light on our fellow residents aged 50-plus, who are using what they've learned in life to make a difference in the lives around them," said AARP Maryland State President Jim Campbell.

Nominations will be evaluated by AARP Maryland based on how the volunteer's work has improved the community, supported AARP's vision and mission, and inspired other volunteers. The award recipient will be announced in early fall.

AARP Maryland Andrus Award for Community Service nominees must meet the following eligibility requirements:
* Nominee must be 50 years or older.
* The achievements, accomplishments, or service on which the nomination is based must have been performed on a volunteer basis, without pay. AmeriCorps VISTA and Senior Corps programs volunteers (Senior Companions, Foster Grandparents, RSVP and Senior Demonstration Programs) are eligible.
* The achievements, accomplishments, or service on which the nomination is based must reflect AARP's vision and purpose.
* The achievements, accomplishments, or service on which the nomination is based must be replicable and provide inspiration for others to volunteer.
* Couples or partners who perform service together are also eligible; however, teams are not eligible.
* This is not a posthumous award.

Please visit http://aarp.org/andrusaward for further information and a nomination form. The application deadline is July 15, 2020.

The AARP Andrus Award for Community Service is an annual awards program developed to honor individuals whose service is a unique and valuable contribution to society. Last year, AARP recognized 50 outstanding individuals and couples from around the country

ABOUT AARP

AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With nearly 38 million members and offices in every state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, AARP works to strengthen communities and advocate for what matters most to families with a focus on health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation's largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin.

To learn more, visit http://www.aarp.org/ or follow @AARP and @AARPadvocates on social media.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Nancy Carr
443-787-5382
ncarr@aarp.org

AARP Maryland is continuing to accept nominations for its 2020 Andrus Award for Community Service, which honor a Marylander over the age of 50, who is sharing their experience, talent, and skills to enrich the lives of their community members. The deadline for submissions is July 15, 2020.

Related link: https://states.aarp.org/maryland/

Pets and Fireworks – Tips to Keep Pets Happy and Safe on July 4th

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Every Independence Day, shelters are filled with lost and injured pets. The Sacramento SPCA is recommending the following tips to keep your pet safe so you can all enjoy a happy and safe Fourth of July.

* Make sure pets are microchipped and the chip registration (owner's contact information) is up to date.

* Ensure pets are wearing a properly fitting collar with ID tags.

* As a backup plan, write your phone number on your pet's collar with a sharpie marker.

* Provide physical and mental stimulation with a walk or playtime during cooler morning hours - it can help pets stay calm in the evening.

* During peak firework hours the week surrounding July 4th, bring all pets indoors, offer their favorite toy or a stuffed Kong, and add some ambient noise (such as television or radio) to distract them.

Whether the plan is to visit friends for your holiday festivities or stay close to home, it's important to remember our furry friends do not enjoy the celebration as much as humans do.

"Every year, animal shelters are inundated with pets that panicked at the sound of fireworks and fled into the night, winding up lost, injured or killed," said Kenn Altine, Sacramento SPCA CEO. "By following these few simple tips, pet owners can keep their pets safe and sound at home and avoid unnecessary worry, reclaim fees and heartbreak."

What Do I Do If I Find a Stray Animal?

The Sacramento SPCA is encouraging community members to follow these Found Animal Tips to help healthy stray animals find their way home; including checking the animal for an ID tag and microchip (which can be scanned at a vet's office, shelter or pet store), asking around the neighborhood, making flyers or posting online in local lost and found groups or on neighborhood specific social media platforms.

For sick or injured animals found in Sacramento City, residents should call 311 and in Sacramento County, call 916-875-5000.

"It's been long thought that bringing animals to shelters was the best way to help them, but we now realize that most of the time, they can be easily reunited with their family by staying near where they were found,' said Altine. "That leaves the shelter with room for the animals who really do need our help - those whose owners can no longer keep them or animals that are sick or injured."

The Sacramento SPCA is the only shelter in the region offering pet owners a place to take their beloved animals when they have nowhere else to turn; regardless of age, breed, health condition or behavior. Though the Sacramento SPCA had to adapt their services due to the COVID-19 health crisis, they have continued to say yes to the animals and have expanded public access to their lifesaving programs by offering appointment-based services.

Founded in 1892, the Sacramento SPCA has been providing homeless animals with individual comfort, shelter, and love for more than 128 years. They provide compassionate medical care to tens of thousands of animals annually and offer a variety of programs and services designed to keep people and pets together for life.

Learn more:
* https://www.sspca.org/
* https://www.facebook.com/SacSPCA/
* https://www.instagram.com/sacramento_spca/
* https://www.twitter.com/SacramentoSPCA

MEDIA CONTACT:
Dawn Foster, Sacramento SPCA Marketing & Communications Director dfoster@sspca.org or (916) 802-0915

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0701s2p-sspca-fireworks-300dpi.jpg

Every Independence Day, shelters are filled with lost and injured pets. The Sacramento SPCA is recommending the following tips to keep your pet safe so you can all enjoy a happy and safe Fourth of July.

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

‘Money Is an Energy Game,’ Gold Winner of 2020 COVR Visionary Awards for e-books, is now available in print

ARLINGTON, Wash. /ScoopCloud/ -- Madeline Gerwick of Polaris Business Guides and Margaret Donahue of Feng Shui Connections announce the print publication of "Money Is an Energy Game" (ISBN: 978-1734283600). Released in Kindle format in December, 2019, this book was named the Gold Winner of 2020 COVR Visionary Awards for e-books on June 6, 2020.

If you'd like to accomplish more by doing less and easily generate greater prosperity, this book is for you. Mental and emotional blockages, beliefs, and behavior patterns that interfere with creating more prosperity and ease in life are common. The book uncovers the connections between energy and money, so you can win at the game of money and success. It provides a fresh perspective via a gold mine of over 100 tools and techniques, new ideas, scientific proofs, and tested methods to increase your wealth and well-being.

Brian Tracy, author of "The 21 Success Secrets of Self-Made Millionaires," recommends this book, saying: "This powerful, inspiring book shows you how to unlock your hidden powers to achieve financial success-no matter where you are today or where you are coming from."

From Maria Shaw, Intuitive Astrologer, Author and Horoscope Columnist: "Love this book! It covers everything you need to know to get started on a path to prosperity. Eye opening with wonderful insightful information I can put to use immediately. These authors covered it all! I feel excited, armed, and ready to attract money and prosperity now. Thank you for sharing your knowledge in this book. Everyone, rich or poor, just getting by or doing well, needs to read it."

The co-authors, Margaret Donahue and Madeline Gerwick, have taught prosperity practices to businesses and individuals for nearly twenty years. Margaret Donahue's senior executive position, MBA, and feng shui mastery bring a unique perspective to this topic, while Madeline Gerwick's economic degree, business experience and mastery of astrological cycles, particularly related to business and economics, provide a broader understanding of energy. "Money Is an Energy Game" captures their combined experience and knowledge to bring you revolutionary perceptions related to energy and money.

If you're looking for step-by-step instructions, new ideas, and money wisdom to improve your life, business, and financial well-being, "Money Is an Energy Game" is the choice for you! This 2020 COVR Visionary Awards e-book winner is available on Amazon.

The print edition will be available for shipment in mid-July and can be ordered at https://moneyisanenergygame.com/.

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0701s2p-money-energy-game-300dpi.jpg

Madeline Gerwick of Polaris Business Guides and Margaret Donahue of Feng Shui Connections announce the print publication of "Money Is an Energy Game" (ISBN: 978-1734283600). Released in Kindle format in December, 2019, this book was named the Gold Winner of 2020 COVR Visionary Awards for e-books on June 6, 2020.

Related link: https://moneyisanenergygame.com/

ITA and Getting to Global Announce New Partnership

WASHINGTON, D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Getting to Global and the International Trade Administration (ITA) have partnered to help exporters better navigate federal government trade resources. As such, all federal assistance available to exporters will now be made available on Export Connect, a new platform that brings together in one place all the resources businesses need to export smarter.

This new partnership highlights how industry and government are working together to support U.S. businesses by providing a better access to critical resources to help economic recovery. Getting to Global's growing momentum includes other federal agency partnerships such as the U.S. Export-Import Bank and State trade offices through the State International Development Organization (SIDO). These partnerships help bolster Export Connect as the de facto platform for U.S. businesses to access valuable tools, expert advice, and government and industry resources needed to expand overseas.

This partnership will help ITA, a department of the U.S. Department of Commerce, fulfill its mission to improve the global business environment and help U.S. organizations compete at home and abroad. Export Connect is only one of the many technological solutions created by Getting to Global to multiply the impact of leading trade and investment organizations in the U.S.

"There is such a wealth of knowledge already available for trade support. It's been our mission to make it easier for trade and investment agencies to help small and medium enterprises find the right resources and engage with them. As a public-private partnership, we bring together the speed of industry and the insights of government on behalf of our U.S. stakeholders." - Patrick L. Perreault, President of Getting to Global.

"Having come from ITA, I'm pleased to help shine a light on all the great work the inter-agency Trade Promotion Coordinating Committee, led by ITA, does for U.S. companies. ITA brings such a wealth of knowledge and perspective to our audience and network of local, state, and federal trade promotion and investment organizations." - Joshua Halpern, Founder and Chairman of the Board of Getting to Global.

"This partnership could not have come at a better time. As our U.S. companies struggle to find their footing in this unstable environment, the ability to look beyond their borders through the use of digital trade tools and ecommerce sale channels will play a crucial role in the acceleration of our national economic recovery," - Phil Bond, Executive Director, Foundation for American Science and Technology.

Memorandum of Understanding

Partnership activities may include collaboration and the exchange of information in support of ITA's strategic initiatives. In particular, the parties may collaborate on activities to:
* Counsel U.S. businesses in building an eCommerce export strategy to succeed in eCommerce sales channels;
* Provide eCommerce export training and education for small and medium businesses;
* Provide eCommerce-related capacity building resources for U.S. and overseas ITA personnel;
* Educate small and medium businesses selling online about trade policy and legislation impacting eCommerce exporters and the U.S. eCommerce export sector; and
* Lecture, form panels, participate, and support programs.

The partnership will support activities to facilitate international trade and commerce as well as educate the public about the economic benefits of trade. It will help enhance awareness of ITA and other U.S. Government resources available to U.S. companies and foreign investors, and encourage U.S. businesses interested in exporting and foreign businesses interested in investing in the United States to seek the assistance of ITA,

About Getting to Global

Getting to Global build and deploy innovative technology solutions and programs that multiply the impact of leading economic development, trade, and investment organizations around the world. They deliver unique technologies that make trade and investment organizations more efficient through digital transformation, digital platform development, and a global helpdesk. Export Connect is one of their many platforms, alongside Export Accelerator and Blueprints, all designed to help trade and investment promotion organizations multiply the economic impact of their work.

The Foundation for American Science and Technology (FAST) is a 501 (c)(3) non-lobbying entity that promotes policies to strengthen American science and technology. Getting to Global initiative in the U.S. is supported by FAST, the management of which seeks to provide unbiased programs, resources, and information to catalyze an exponential increase in the number of U.S. small and medium businesses exporting through eCommerce.

If you have any questions, please contact us at info@gettingtoglobal.org.

Learn more:
* https://gettingtoglobal.org/
* https://export-connect.org/en/networks/international-trade-administration

MEDIA CONTACT
Patrick L. Perreault
Getting to Global
plperreault@perimetre.co
1-514-242-7915

Getting to Global and the International Trade Administration (ITA) have partnered to help exporters better navigate federal government trade resources. As such, all federal assistance available to exporters will now be made available on Export Connect, a new platform that brings together in one place all the resources businesses need to export smarter.

Related link: https://gettingtoglobal.org/

Green Buildings Are Not Sustainable, says Janis Birkeland

MELBOURNE, Australia /ScoopCloud/ -- According to Dr Janis Birkeland, the originator of net-positive design, while sustainable 'green' buildings are making great strides, they still do more damage than no building at all.

"Each green building increases the problem," she says. "Even though there are numerous sustainable building initiatives and processes that purport to contribute to sustainability, the industry is still analyzing and assessing all the wrong things in the wrong ways. For example, there are dozens of things fundamentally wrong with green building rating tools."

However, Birkeland also says that construction, which causes so much environmental destruction, could actually save nature and deliver social and environmental justice.

"True sustainability is possible and affordable, but not if we use the same strategies."

Dr Birkeland's new book, "Net-Positive Design and Sustainable Urban Development" (ISBN 9780367258566), explains why current theories and practices are not effective. It systematically dissects these failings and reverses their underlying concepts.

The book builds on this critique to show how urban development can give back more than it takes over its lifecycle. It provides examples to show that development can increase - rather than just repair, restore or regenerate - overall social, ecological and economic sustainability.

"Technically speaking, in a net-positive city, nature's 'positive' ecological footprint would exceed humanity's 'negative' ecological footprint, relative to pre-urban conditions.

"Positive Development theory has led to new methods, strategies and tools that enable professionals and students to design (and assess) net-positive buildings and environments that increase the natural and social life support systems," said Dr Birkeland.

Net-Positive Design presents game-changing sustainable planning analyses, a collaborative design process and a free STARfish computer app. The STARfish enables designers to go beyond zero (or recycling systems) to create designs that yield net-positive environments. It defines new criteria and benchmarks based on fixed, objective biophysical conditions, rather than relative to conventional (unsustainable) buildings or current conditions.

"The new approach not only up-ends building assessment tools, it integrates assessment and measurement with design. It synthesises the 'hard' technical and 'soft' creative dimensions in planning, decision making and design."

Creating and measuring 'beyond zero' cumulative impacts is no easy task but, thanks to Dr Birkeland's insights and dedication to sustainable development, it has now been done and is available around the world for educators and professionals alike.

Learn more: https://netpositivedesign.org/

Authoritative comments about Net-Positive Design:

"From the author who developed Positive Development theory comes another tour de force - a delightful guide for those of us disappointed with the direction of conventional approaches to wicked problems." - Mirek Dymitrow, Lund University and University of Gothenburg, Sweden.

"By re-engineering our approach to urban development, Birkeland reveals how cities could become our most powerful resource in reversing the trends associated with climate change...Essential reading for all decision makers." - Dr Kathi Holt, architect and strategic urban designer.

Book availability & links:

Routledge Publishers. RRP from $A37 for eBook:
https://www.routledge.com/Net-Positive-Design-and-Sustainable-Urban-Development/Birkeland/p/book/9780367258566

Paperback: ISBN 9780367258566
Hardback: ISBN 9780367258559

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Positive_Development

Learn more: https://netpositivedesign.org/

About the author:

Dr Janis Birkeland was an architect, city planner and attorney in San Francisco before entering academia. Dr Birkeland has devoted her working life to sustainable development, originating many increasingly familiar sustainable design concepts. She is presently an Honorary Professorial Fellow at the University of Melbourne, having been a Professor of sustainable architecture in Australia and New Zealand. Her books include Design for Sustainability (2002) and Positive Development (2008).

Media enquiries:
Issued on behalf of Dr Janis Birkeland by WMC Public Relations Pty Limited. Contact Janis Birkeland at janis.lynn.birkeland@gmail.com or contact Wendy McWilliams at WMC PR at wendy@wmcpr.com.au

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0701s2p-net-positive-design-300dpi.jpg

According to Dr Janis Birkeland, the originator of net-positive design, while sustainable 'green' buildings are making great strides, they still do more damage than no building at all.

Related link: https://netpositivedesign.org/

America’s Values: Valuegraphics Survey shows Patriotism is the #1 priority, ahead of Family

VANCOUVER, B.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Among the 56 core human values that The Valuegraphics Database measures, the average American ranks "Belonging" ahead of "Family" and "Relationships" - a result that reflects the very strong national pride in the U.S.

This means that, as a priority, Country comes ahead of everything else.

It can also explain the fractious divisions within the U.S., as groups coalesce around ideas that bind them together. A brotherhood. A birthright. A backdrop for understanding US feelings of exceptionalism in a global village. An explanation for why "Make America Great Again" resonates either positively or negatively with so many U.S. voters.

By comparison, the rest of the world, on average, places more value on "Family" and "Relationships" above all else.

The distinction is important because what we value predicts how we will behave.

Our values - what we care about most - are the only accurate indicator of who people are, and why they do the things they do. The stereotypes perpetuated by demographic labels have nothing to do with how we decide to behave, and yet are still so pervasive in every aspect of life.

To understand foreign and domestic issues, engage in target marketing, or build consumer profiles, knowing the exact values that trigger behavior for any group of people is a strategic essential.

In Valuegraphics research around the world and in every sector, values of togetherness - like "Family," "Relationships," "Belonging" and "Community" - almost always rank at the top. Which is hopeful for all of humankind, but which clouds the distinctions from one region of the world to the next. After these values of togetherness are set aside, the remaining value sets reflect the unique cultures of different regions in the world.

For example, the rest of the world cares more about "Financial Security" while it is less important in the U.S. - likely because wealth, or the promise of wealth, is part of the work hard/get ahead ethic of the American Dream. Similarly, "Material Possessions" ranks among the top 10 American values compared to the rest of the world. You don't acquire stuff without the wherewithal to buy it.

"Freedom of Speech," a value that is likely a byproduct of the ever-present debate about First Amendment rights, is far more important in the US than the rest of the world.

What do American's care least about? "Service to Others", ranks in last place while around the rest of the world that particular value shows up in the middle of the pack of 56 values. The survey also supports the U.S. spirit of individualism, with values of "Tolerance" and "Peace" rated as less important, compared to the world averages. American's value "Loyalty" lower than the rest of the world, along with "Community," "Personal Responsibility" and "Trustworthiness."

Understanding shared values is the key to understanding what will motivate target audiences to act. All humans spend every waking moment acting on, finding ways to feed, and looking for validation of what we care about most, our values, regardless of the demographic box we fit into.

About Valuegraphics

The Valuegraphics Database defines the shared values of target audiences, regardless of their demographic profiles. It uses a global database informed by neuroscience, psychology and sociology and measures 436 shared human values, wants, needs and expectations. It's accurate to +/- 3.5%, offering a high degree of confidence. Learn more: https://valuegraphics.com/

Media Contact
Ian Edwards
646-477-7940

*IMAGE LINK for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0701s2p-valuegraphics-values-300dpi.jpg

Among the 56 core human values that The Valuegraphics Database measures, the average American ranks "Belonging" ahead of "Family" and "Relationships" - a result that reflects the very strong national pride in the U.S.

Related link: https://valuegraphics.com/

Free Augmented Reality (AR) Fireworks for July 4 from Anywhere

DUBLIN, Ohio /ScoopCloud/ -- Using the free TotalAR app on a smartphone or tablet, you can watch augmented reality fireworks from any location from 9 p.m. to midnight local time on July 4, HoloPundits announced today. The fireworks display will run 12 minutes and will feature patriotic virtual fireworks and music.

Communities across the country are promoting the mobile app as an alternative or a supplement to their in-person fireworks displays. The city of Dayton, Ohio is one community offering the virtual fireworks and other augmented experiences through the mobile app.

"It's fun to watch the hot air balloons and the other experiences available on the app," said Nick Terbay, Recreation Program Coordinator for the City of Dayton. "You just hold your phone up to the sky and experience all the augmented reality displays."

Leading up to July 4, you will be able to enjoy other fun experiences through the app. You can witness a beautiful rainbow, a stunning show of lanterns, a hot air balloon launch, a UFO landing, and more.

"We wanted to make something special for the community to enjoy," said HoloPundits Founder and CEO Vinod Dega. "With our app, these experiences can be brought to life wherever you are through augmented reality. People can enjoy the holiday safely, and that is important to us."

Though more than 60 communities in 20 states are teaming up with HoloPundits to provide this to their community members, individuals from anywhere can participate in the experiences.

To participate, download the TotalAR app for free at GooglePlay or the AppStore (no ads appear in this app). Allow the app to enable camera and location services. Click on Geo AR and enjoy the experiences.

For more information, visit https://www.totalar.com/fireworks.html

or view https://youtu.be/cSdoEGjkomg

HoloPundits is a global technology company with expertise that spans the entire spectrum of AR, VR, and mixed reality. Headquartered in Dublin, Ohio with offices in Chennai, India, Holopundits works with brands across a variety of industries to transform their experience through immersive technology.

For more about HoloPundits, visit our website: https://www.holopundits.com/about-us.html

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0630s2p-totalar-fireworks-300dpi.jpg

Using the free TotalAR app on a smartphone or tablet, you can watch augmented reality fireworks from any location from 9 p.m. to midnight local time on July 4, HoloPundits announced today. The fireworks display will run 12 minutes and will feature patriotic virtual fireworks and music.

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

New Rug Website Makes Finding a Specific Rug Size a Breeze

WESTPORT, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- It's a common problem for consumers - finding just the right size area rug to fit a specific space. A new website, RugsBySize.com, launched by GetBySize, LLC, solves this problem by aggregating multiple retailers all in one place. Consumers no longer have to visit different retailers to find what they're looking for. This new website is basically one-stop-rug shopping and consumers only need to give a few clicks of the mouse.

The site currently features more than 20 retailers all in one place and includes top retailers such as Bloomingdales, Sotheby's Home, One Kings Lane, Loomy Home and more. Inventory is impressive with more than 400,000 rugs from which to choose and more are being added all the time.

RugsBySize is a helpful resource for not just individual consumers, but busy interior designers, architects and other design professionals. Time is money, so a site like RugsBySize can help boost a business's bottom line.

On the flip side, rug and carpet retailers who partner with RugsBySize increase access to more sales. They get more exposure because consumers have access to more products at a glance.

The website is user-friendly and easy to navigate. Main search criteria are size and price and searches can be narrowed by store, style and brand too.

RugsBySize gives consumers access to just about any style rug - Persian rugs, Oriental rugs, Turkish rugs, luxury rugs, modern rugs, cowhide rugs, wool rugs, hand-tufted rugs, hand-knotted rugs and kids rugs.

With RugsBySize, searching for a rug is no longer frustrating or futile. RugsBySize delivers just what the consumer needs - the perfect size rug in less time and with better results.

For more information, visit: https://www.rugsbysize.com

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0630s2p-rugs-by-size-300dpi.jpg

It's a common problem for consumers - finding just the right size area rug to fit a specific space. A new website, RugsBySize.com, launched by GetBySize, LLC, solves this problem by aggregating multiple retailers all in one place. Consumers no longer have to visit different retailers to find what they're looking for.

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

IDmission Completes ISO Compliance Testing for Proprietary Biometric Technologies and Presentation Attack Detection

BOULDER, Colo. /ScoopCloud/ -- BOULDER, Colo., June 30, 2020 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- IDmission, LLC, a global leader in biometric and AI technology that reduces risk associated with false identities today announced that it has met the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) requirements for ISO/IEC 30107-3. The Presentation Attack Detection (PAD) testing showed that IDmission's proprietary passive liveness detection technology was found to be 100% compliant and in iBeta testing the error rate was found to be 0%. By utilizing anti-spoofing techniques, IDmission software offers financial-based institutions an extremely reliable solution for fraud detection and consumer identity verification.

With the ISO qualification, IDmission is one of only three global biometric companies that can ensure the security, compatibility and interoperability at such a level.

"As communication through technology continues to evolve, there is a growing urgency for reliable biometric data verification among financial institutions, insurance providers, healthcare providers, lenders, and other companies delivering online transactions to consumers. Biometric technology has become increasingly critical as a means for verifying consumer identities," said IDmission CEO Ashim Banerjee. "We have worked very hard to engineer a reliable solution that includes anti-spoofing techniques for institutions to use in identity verification processes."

iBeta Quality Assurance was the independent testing lab, which is the only biometrics testing lab accredited by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) for ISO 30107-3. It issues third-party testing to other biometric companies in order to ensure product quality, functionality, and accuracy. In order to comply with ISO standards, biometric companies must undergo extensive testing issued by iBeta and achieve the required score.

IDmission is software that eliminates risk associated with false identities. For validating identities to prevent liability and fraud, IDmission combines standards compliant security with passive liveness detection. Invisible by design, it applies biometric science to create security that does not get in the way of doing business.

Used in finance, ecommerce, the sharing economy, and regulated industries, IDmission establishes true identity without compromising the user experience. Delivered as a mobile and cloud solution, or as technology components for advanced developers, IDmission creates powerful security for customers and communities in a fraud filled world.

About IDmission

IDmission, a global leader in biometric and AI technology, reduces risk associated with false identities. It is one of only two U.S. based biotech providers, and the sole provider of a proprietary, end-to-end biotech solution for identity theft, through a comprehensive "Know Your Customer" (KYC) platform and automatic ID document analysis across 200 countries and four categories of biometrics: face, fingerprint, iris, and voice.

For more information, visit https://www.idmission.com/homepage-en/.

*LOGO link: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0630s2p-idmission-logo-300dpi.jpg

IDmission, LLC, a global leader in biometric and AI technology that reduces risk associated with false identities today announced that it has met the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) requirements for ISO/IEC 30107-3.

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

Bay Area Medical Academy Students Gain Rare Real-World Experience Testing for COVID-19

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- A recent community-led effort to test San Francisco residents for COVID-19, including the unhoused populations in Bayview and Sunnydale/Visitacion Valley gave Bay Area Medical Academy (BAMA) phlebotomy students first-hand experience administering COVID-19 testing to underserved populations.

A critical part of students' phlebotomy training is externships, usually in a lab or a doctor's office, but in recent months these opportunities halted as hospitals and labs closed down access to students and postponed all elective and preventive procedures. However, through a broad community partnership called United in Health D10, which included UCSF, San Francisco Department of Public Health (SFDPH), Bay Area Phlebotomy and Laboratory Services (Bay Area PLS), and other community partners, BAMA students were able to complete externships and gain real-world experience in performing COVID-19 testing and drawing blood for COVID-19 antibody testing, while administering to underserved populations of African-American, Pacific Islander, Chinese, and LatinX residents in San Francisco.

Anne Williams, 57, a resident of San Francisco, just completed the BAMA phlebotomy training and was one of several students who participated in testing by performing venous punctures for blood collection for the COVID-19 antibody test in challenging outdoor settings-a school yard in Bayview, a baseball field in Visitacion Valley/Sunnydale, and a closed Bayview street working with the homeless and partially sheltered. According to Williams, the weather ranged from rain to incredibly strong winds that threatened to overturn the tents, to 95 degree heat while completely covered in layers of PPE. One patient jokingly referred to it as "fresh air phlebotomy." In spite of conditions, Williams felt it was a valuable experience.

"I felt like I was doing service in my community and a political action, rather than just a stepping stone toward getting my license," said Williams. "The heartfelt thank you's and gratitude we received made the work more than worth it. I ended up feeling like I got more back than I gave."

Typically, BAMA Phlebotomy students take 60 hours of class training and then 2-4 weeks of an externship in a clinical setting. Class training focuses on skills such as collecting blood using needles, documenting and identification of samples, hygiene and infection control protocols, and safe handling and transport of samples-much of which pertain also to COVID-19 and antibody testing. The students' work was overseen by doctors, nurses, and other specialists as part of United in Health D10, and students performed approximately 100 tests each.

The community testing initiative has proven valuable to BAMA which was in danger of being unable to find enough externships for students during the lockdown. Now, three of the participating students have been offered jobs, as a direct result of participating in the externships, with Bay Area PLS, according to CEO Salu Ribeiro.

After talking to a range of participants, Ribeiro believes there were added benefits to these unusual externships, including the fact that "students gained experience serving a diverse community and had exposure to technical challenges that develop their resilience required to become strong medical professionals."

BAMA founder and CEO Simonida Cvejic agrees. "Bay Area Medical Academy is about meaningful community impact, through empowering and training students for successful entry in the healthcare field but also through contributing to the healthcare of our community and this COVID19 testing project has provided us exactly that," Cvejic said. "In alliance with Bay Area PLS, our students got a chance to experience working in the front lines of the COVID19 testing, research and prevention."

Ribeiro expects the opportunity and others like it to continue. "We want to express our gratitude for being able to provide this service to the residents in San Francisco," Ribeiro said. "These students will be doing serial antibody testing with other projects - and we will be recruiting more BAMA students in the future."

About Bay Area Medical Academy

Bay Area Medical Academy (BAMA) provides healthcare career training created in partnership with employers. We prepare individuals from different socio-economic, cultural and educational backgrounds for careers working in the healthcare industry. BAMA's goal is to serve its students and the medical community through quality academic instruction and job-oriented, skills-training. We maintain a student-centered philosophy and use both traditional and innovative means to train our students. Bay Area Medical Academy is committed to the success of its students, believing that education is the best way to transform people's lives.

Bay Area Medical Academy ranks in the top 10% of B-Corps (benefits corporations) based on our rigorous standards of social performance, accountability, and transparency. We partner with social agencies to help people who face social barriers attend school. We also collaborate with STEP into a Job!(tm) to provide scholarships to high school seniors.

Learn more at https://www.bamasf.com
Media Contact:
Hannah Onstad
H2O Content Strategy
Hannah.onstad@gmail.com

A recent community-led effort to test San Francisco residents for COVID-19, including the unhoused populations in Bayview and Sunnydale/Visitacion Valley gave Bay Area Medical Academy (BAMA) phlebotomy students first-hand experience administering COVID-19 testing to underserved populations.

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

Med spa adds medically supervised weight loss to its list of services in Kentucky

CRESTWOOD, Ky. /ScoopCloud/ -- A medical aesthetics practice near Louisville, Kentucky is branching out beyond its usual cosmetic treatments to incorporate a new program geared toward weight loss and weight management. Vibrant Med Spa recently announced the addition of its new Wellness Through Weight Management Program to aid clients in reaching their weight loss goals.

Led by owner Erica Chowning, APRN, FNP-C, and Ashley Wilhoite, BSN, RN, the new program features private, individualized assessments and tailored plans to help people implement consistent, healthier habits into their daily lives.

Chowning and Wilhoite said the most important aspect of the program is the life-coaching element to help people stay on track.

"We don't just hand you the tools and send you on your way," Chowning said. "We essentially partner with you and offer a warm, nurturing environment in which you're bound to thrive."

Wilhoite, who was recently hired by Chowning to oversee the program, brings more than 15 years of nursing experience and both professional and personal knowledge of fitness and nutrition. She is also currently enrolled in a graduate program at Northern Kentucky University and will soon graduate as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

Wilhoite said her knowledge of mental health will be a valuable tool in helping clients navigate themselves through the often overwhelming task of healthy weight loss.

"A lot of the nutrition and healthy lifestyle choices are mental," she said. "Every person, man or woman, likes to feel attractive. When people have the assistance of someone to keep them up to speed and to keep them accountable, just someone to be there with them and work as a team to get it done, I truly think it's a great benefit."

Emphasis will also be placed on diet, exercise, supplements, medications, and injections geared toward boosting the body's metabolic effect. All these elements, Chowning and Wilhoite say, will be specifically tailored to fit each client's individual needs. The whole process will begin with a 7-day detox program and include regular weigh-ins and coaching sessions.

"Getting people to understand and know that it's a process, it's a journey, it's a lifestyle change, and it's just not going to be this fast, quick fix is very important," Wilhoite said. "Because those usually end in disappointment. It really is about healthy eating and being active. And we're going to help them every step of the way."

For more information on the new program, call (502) 618-0995 or visit https://www.vibrantmed.com/.

A medical aesthetics practice near Louisville, Kentucky is branching out beyond its usual cosmetic treatments to incorporate a new program geared toward weight loss and weight management. Vibrant Med Spa recently announced the addition of its new Wellness Through Weight Management Program to aid clients in reaching their weight loss goals.

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

New Book, ‘Tenacity’ is a Story of Courage and Resilience in the Face of Adversities

FORT MYERS, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Veena Sharma is an Indo-Fijian author, who has released her memoir "Tenacity" (ISBN: 978-1643883861). It is a story of risk, courage, and determination. Ultimately, it's a story of the human spirit's triumph over fear. Born into poverty, uprooted from her homeland, forced to marry a stranger, subjected to physical and emotional abuse.

Veena Sharma's spirit demanded that she risk the emotional pain of ostracism and realize her right to determine the colors of her own story.

It is her story of embracing risk and change and learning to dance with them. Beginning with a painting of life in Fiji that cradles readers so softly that they wish that they had been born there, readers then accompany her on an adventure to Canada as her family relocates. There is no way to grasp her family's insistence she marry a stranger. Her parents, victims of cultural conformity, insist that she stay with him regardless of the physical and mental abuse he inflicts. Veena's choices inspire readers to deny fear it's power and to embrace change so they can become the authors of their own stories.

"From my perspective, every experience and every person we meet serves a purpose in our life, either good or bad. Your experience in life, including mistakes, struggles, and failures, doesn't have to define who you are, but instead, it can indeed lead you to discover your true self," says author Veena Sharma.

Veena Sharma is an overcomer who currently lives in Ft Myers, Florida. In this debut memoir, she shares her life journey, struggles, accomplishments, determination, and perseverance. Veena wishes to inspire, motivate, and encourage people and to evoke higher frequencies of hope.

She hopes her book will heal and transform others who are tired of living with woes or on plateau. Veena's greatest satisfaction is living life making a difference.

In her memoir, she talks in detail about her childhood in a remote place in Fiji Islands, her adulthood in Vancouver, Canada, her struggles and her accomplishments. The book also contains golden nuggets as an inspirational message for the readers at the end of each chapter.

Veena Sharma was born in a very remote place in Fiji Islands called Dawasamu. She lived there in her early years and moved to Vancouver, BC Canada at age 16 with her family. Veena lived in Vancouver until age 39 and moved to USA after getting her BSN degree from University of Victoria, Victoria BC Canada. Veena's passion for advancement in life gave her opportunity to live in California, Virginia, Illinois and brought her to her final destination, Ft Myers, Florida.

Veena completed her Master's Degree in Nursing in 2009 from Walden University. Currently Veena works as an oncology nurse navigator. Veena's passion for creative writing began when she took many English courses while she was attending her nursing program. She excelled in all her English classes. One of Veena's goal in life is to empower, inspire and motivate others.

Her first book, "Tenacity: Penciling the Journey and Inking the Destiny" is a memoir of a woman's courage and resilience in the face of adversities. Veena takes her readers on the journey from Fiji to her final destination Florida. She talks about her struggles, sacrifices, accomplishment and hopes that it will help readers who are in plateau and need help to overcome some of the barriers in their life.

*VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/tdLQ3YX01ug

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0630s2p-tenacity-book-300dpi.jpg

Media Contact and more information:
Veena Sharma
217-414-9845
* https://veenasharma.net/
* https://www.facebook.com/veena.sharma1
* https://www.instagram.com/veenadsharma/

The book is available on Amazon.com or can be ordered from your local bookstore
* https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1643883860/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_image_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
* https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/tenacity-veena-sharma/1137190784?ean=9781643883861

Veena Sharma is an Indo-Fijian author, who has released her memoir "Tenacity" (ISBN: 978-1643883861). It is a story of risk, courage, and determination. Ultimately, it's a story of the human spirit's triumph over fear. Born into poverty, uprooted from her homeland, forced to marry a stranger, subjected to physical and emotional abuse.

Related link: https://veenasharma.net/

Stand Up Delaware’s Reopen Schools Committee has submitted a White Paper to Governor Carney and Secretary of Education Susan Bunting

DOVER, Del. /ScoopCloud/ -- Stand Up Delaware, a Facebook group launched on April 13, 2020 by two special needs mothers, Lisa McCulley and Didi Figueroa, has formed a "Reopen Schools Committee" for the purpose of composing and launching a White Paper with a common sense, scientific, feasible approach to reopening our schools in Delaware.

This group currently has nearly 9,300 members. The Reopen Schools Committee is composed of doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, school nurses, teachers, para-professionals, and administrators.

"It is respectfully and urgently requested that our Governor and Secretary of Education read, revue, and strongly consider our approach," said co-founder Lisa McCulley.

Much research and consideration went into this effort to offer safe, reasonable, scientific, common sense solutions for best practices to reopen schools for our school faculty, parents, and our biggest priority, our students.

Learn more at: http://standupdelaware.org/

White Paper: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_ZDp90CQ4Lr7FhN64cNgfvGT2ZxUbbHq/view?usp=sharing

Stand Up Delaware, a Facebook group launched on April 13, 2020 by two special needs mothers, Lisa McCulley and Didi Figueroa, has formed a "Reopen Schools Committee" for the purpose of composing and launching a White Paper with a common sense, scientific, feasible approach to reopening our schools in Delaware.

Related link: http://standupdelaware.org/

New Agile Virtual Conference Sets Out To Make Carolinas The Next Agile Hotspot!

CHARLOTTE, N.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- What do you get when you combine a week full of entertaining Agile Great Debates each morning, 6-dynamic speakers each day representing some of the region's leading Fortune 500 Employers and 24-Agile Industry hot topics followed by live Q&A opportunities in a virtual green room? You get, The Ultimate Virtual Conference by Agile Week Carolinas(TM) scheduled to kick off October 6 - 9, 2020 and FREE to all who register!

Sponsored by Scrum.Org, Keyot & BrandDisco(C), Agile Week Carolinas(TM), is a dedicated platform for Companies, Teams and Individuals to discover what's NEW, CHANGING or TRENDING and will attract over 12,000 registered attendees across North & South Carolinas!

With carefully selected speakers, debaters and moderators who are Agile Certified Leaders and Practitioners across Carolinas' regional communities, AWC was created for the Agile community, by the Agile community, as a platform to catapult and connect the most curious, to the most confident Agilists, and everyone in between.

Agile Week Carolinas(TM) (AWC), has experienced breakout success since its February 2020 inception mostly contributing this early-adoption to its 'ecosystem like' model, where attendees are encouraged to be a part of the story vs. just watching from the sidelines by getting involved as Speakers, Debaters, Moderators or Volunteers across three big pillars.

The topics presented by various speakers are pre-selected by AWC's Leadership Team who enlists the help of researchers to find the most socially relevant topics for audiences who range in demographic from; Senior to Mid-Level Agile Professionals, PMP holders transitioning to Agile roles, Military Veterans interested in Agile and College Grads.

This year's topics will cover the below categories and attendees are welcome to select as many areas of interest as they desire:
* Daily Great Debates on Agile's Gray Areas
* Future of Work
* Agile Adoption & Transformation
* Agile Data, KPI's & Reporting Tools
* Agile Career Paths & Market Trends
* Scrum Teams & Sprint Success
* Agile Mindset Mastery
* Product Owner Success & Pro-Tips
* Agile State of The State Address (Agile Today vs. Agile Tomorrow)

"We are honored to introduce Agile Week Carolinas, into the Carolinas' Agile Market as an annual event," said DeMario & Dawn Nicole Mcilwain, Husband & Wife Entrepreneurs, AWC Co-Founders & Visionaries & Agilists. "Our ultimate vision is to create a hub for Agile Innovation, Date & Market Trends and Thought Leadership through Agile Week Carolinas and with our region's combined Tech Talent and strong economic power, we can easily make the Carolinas the next Agile Hotspot."

What makes AWC different is that they are not competitive, instead they're inclusive! AWC sees much more value in bringing the communities & conversations together to showcase top Agile Carolina Talent and has partnered with other professional organizations across the Carolinas to make this happen (i.e. PMI Midlands and Metrolina Chapters, IIBA Palmetto Chapter, Veterans Ascend, Women in Agile Charlotte Chapter, Optomi, NC Tech, Pink Mentor, etc.).

Agile Week Carolinas(TM) invites you to register for any of its special events or learn more by going to: https://agileweekcarolinas.com/

Media Contact:
Dawn Nicole Mcilwain
Phone: 704-620-0951
Email: info@agileweekcarolinas.com
Website: agileweekcarolinas.com

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0630s2p-agile-carolinas-300dpi.jpg

What do you get when you combine a week full of entertaining Agile Great Debates each morning, 6-dynamic speakers each day representing some of the region's leading Fortune 500 Employers and 24-Agile Industry hot topics followed by live Q&A opportunities in a virtual green room? You get, The Ultimate Virtual Conference by Agile Week Carolinas.

Related link: https://agileweekcarolinas.com/

Aligned Technology Solutions Celebrates 10 Years Continued Growth and Success

ALEXANDRIA, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- Aligned Technology Solutions, an award-winning managed service provider (MSP), has reached an exciting milestone as the company celebrates a decade of providing affordable world-class IT solutions that improve technology outcomes for small- and medium-sized businesses.

Aligned Technology Solutions initially began as a two-person team and has grown into a thriving business over the last decade with now over 20 team members.

"I'm grateful and humbled by our team's success and take great pride in what we have accomplished over the last 10 years," said Gar Whaley, Co-founder, Aligned Technology Solutions. "This significant milestone validates our business and our steadfast dedication to helping our clients leverage technology. We feel lucky every day to be surrounded by wonderful teammates, clients and partners. I've never been more optimistic about the future of Aligned Technology Solutions."

Throughout its history, Aligned Technology Solutions has been awarded numerous awards including being named as one of the world's premier managed service providers on the 12th-annual Channel Futures MSP 501 rankings. In 2019, Aligned Technology Solutions was included on Inc. magazines' annual Inc. 5000 list, the most prestigious ranking of the nation's fastest-growing private companies.

Most recently, Aligned Technology Solutions was recognized as part of The Financial Times inaugural list of The Americas' Fastest Growing Companies 2020. This prestigious award is presented by The Financial Times and Statista Inc., the world-leading statistics portal and industry ranking provider.

"Our first 10 years have been incredible. We are so grateful for our amazing clients. They place an enormous amount of trust in us, see us an extension of their organization and we are a strategic partner in their success," said Don Sauer, Co-founder, Aligned Technology Solutions. "Of course, we would not have made it past the first year if not for our truly awesome teammates. It's been a total team effort to get to where we are. We are really excited to see what the next 10 years have in store for the Aligned Technology Solutions team".

About Aligned Technology Solutions

Since 2010 ATS has been helping organizations leverage and manage technology to grow and secure their businesses. Aligned Technology Solutions is an award-winning technology service provider delivering customized and comprehensive IT solutions for IT Outsourcing, Cybersecurity, Cloud, VoIP & Broadband. ATS is committed to providing world class customer service and best-of-breed technology solutions that provide our clients competitive advantage in their marketplace. Learn more at https://www.myalignedit.com/.

* LOGO link for media: https://www.send2press.com/300dpi/19-0924s2p-aligned-tech-300dpi.jpg

Aligned Technology Solutions, an award-winning managed service provider (MSP), has reached an exciting milestone as the company celebrates a decade of providing affordable world-class IT solutions that improve technology outcomes for small- and medium-sized businesses.

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

SimpleNexus and Optimal Blue enhance integration to deliver fully integrated mobile rate-locking solution

LEHI, Utah /ScoopCloud/ -- SimpleNexus (https://simplenexus.com/), developer of the leading digital mortgage platform for loan officers, borrowers and real estate agents, today announced significant enhancements to its integration with Optimal Blue, the leading provider of secondary marketing solutions and data services in the mortgage industry. The combined solution is the industry's first to enable loan originators to lock loan pricing from a mobile device.

Now, mutual customers of SimpleNexus and Optimal Blue can run pricing scenarios and request rate locks directly from the SimpleNexus mobile or web application. Two-way data integration between SimpleNexus, Optimal Blue and the lender's loan origination system streamlines the lock request process to minimize manual data entry, advancing loan originators straight to the results page whenever possible.

"Loan pricing can change throughout the day with little advance warning, especially in today's turbulent market," said SimpleNexus COO Ben Miller. "The ability to rapidly lock a loan from a mobile device puts loan originators at a tremendous advantage, enabling them to more effectively manage high volume and close more deals."

Optimal Blue has seen record-setting system volume every month since February 2020, with clients using its enterprise product eligibility and pricing engine to lock well over $1 trillion in mortgage volume in the last 12 months alone.

"To handle today's unprecedented level of activity, lenders need to leverage integrations that create efficiencies and make rate locking processes more scalable and effective" explained Optimal Blue Vice President of Marketing and Strategic Alliances Bob Brandt. "Optimal Blue's integration with SimpleNexus puts accurate mortgage rates at the fingertips of borrowers and loan officers - no matter what device they're using."

For more information, visit https://simplenexus.com/sn/partners/optimal-blue/.

About SimpleNexus, LLC:

SimpleNexus is the digital mortgage platform that enables lenders to originate and process loans from anywhere. The company's best-in-class, easy-to-use app connects loan officers to their borrowers and real estate agents to easily communicate and exchange data in a single location throughout the entire loan life cycle. Loan officers can manage their loan pipelines, order credit, run pricing, send pre-approvals and sign disclosures - all on the go.

About Optimal Blue:

Optimal Blue's Marketplace Platform connects the industry's largest network of originators, investors, and providers. More than $1 Trillion of transactions are processed across the platform each year, facilitating a broad set of secondary market interactions like pricing, locking, hedging, and trading of mortgage loans. For more information, please visit https://www2.optimalblue.com/.

Twitter: @SimpleNexus @OptimalBlue #digitalmortgage #mortgagevolume #ratelocking #mobilefirst #integrations

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-0724s2p-simplenexus-300dpi.jpg

SimpleNexus, developer of the leading digital mortgage platform for loan officers, borrowers and real estate agents, today announced significant enhancements to its integration with Optimal Blue, the leading provider of secondary marketing solutions and data services in the mortgage industry.

Related link: https://simplenexus.com/

Northern White Sand Consortium: Rystad Energy Study Links Sand Proppant Type to Decreased Oil and Gas Production and Profitability

HOUSTON, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- The Northern White Sand Consortium (NWSC), a subgroup of industry participants, formed under the Wisconsin Industrial Sand Association, announced today that a report by Rystad Energy examining 800 Shale Oil wells completed using in-basin sand, across 7 operators in the Permian basin, indicates close to 50% have seen a negative economic impact compared to wells completed using Northern White Sand (NWS).

Up to 85% are nearing negative impact in less than 1 year of production. Upfront savings doesn't appear to offset the impact in just the first year of the well's life.

The impact is not limited to investors, continued short-term economic thinking will affect long-term energy independence, American jobs, and billions of dollars for investors & mineral rights holders.

Accelerating decline rates in shale wells have drawn attention. Many theories have been posed such as well spacing, reservoir pressure drawdowns etc., but one clear potential cause has been virtually ignored since the hydraulic fracturing revolution began, Proppant Type.

Over the past several years, industry observers have recognized well production decline rates are accelerating at a higher rate than ever. The quickening decline rates have occurred simultaneously with the migration away from higher quality proppants. (A Proppant is a granular solid material, typically sand, intended to keep well fractures open.)

The incentive for the switch is understandable since proppant sand cost usually makes up 10% of the completion costs of a horizontal well. High quality Northern White Sand (NWS) is often railed or barged to the play. By avoiding these shipping costs, operators can save $300-$500k per well initially, (around 3-5% inclusive of drilling costs).

According to findings in the Rystad Energy study, what looked like a good business decision may have ended up causing significant negative impact on outcomes, should well productivity rates continue to rapidly decline. NWSC believes this indicates that the fundamental impact that proppants have on hydrocarbon flow and production are the single most significant factor.

Additional information: https://wisconsinsand.org/

Article and Rystad Energy report here: https://nwsinfo.s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/A+Return+to+Quality.pdf

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0629s2p-nwsc-permian-300dpi.jpg
*Image Caption: Permian vs NWS Before and after test.

The Northern White Sand Consortium (NWSC), a subgroup of industry participants, formed under the Wisconsin Industrial Sand Association, announced today that a report by Rystad Energy examining 800 Shale Oil wells completed using in-basin sand, across 7 operators in the Permian basin.