Tag Archives: Baltimore Business

AgingIN Opens Registration for Longevity Pre-Summit and 2026 Conference ‘Peak Purpose: Redefining How We Live and Age’

BALTIMORE, Md., May 7, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — AgingIN, a national leader advancing innovation in eldercare, has opened registration for its highly anticipated annual conference, “Peak Purpose: Redefining How We Live and Age.” The event will explore the impact of how people-first living improves care and strengthens culture while helping organizations perform better.

Image caption: AgingIN, a national leader advancing innovation in eldercare.

Designed for frontline care team members to executives across independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, and PACE programs, the AgingIN 2026 conference includes practical learning and actionable strategies that can be applied immediately.

“Many of us got started in aging services because we care. Learning more person-centered strategies will help us lead more clearly, and be more aligned and better equipped to put people, not systems, at the center of our care,” said Susan Ryan, AgingIN CEO.

This year’s pre-conference experience, “The Longevity Summit: Living Longer, Living Better,” is headlined by keynote speaker Dr. Shelly Chadha of the World Health Organization, who will spotlight advancements and collaborative solutions to close the gap between healthspan and lifespan.

Throughout the summit, thought leaders, practitioners, and researchers will explore transformative approaches to well-being, integrated care models, and the role of innovation in extending quality of life for aging populations.

AgingIN encourages members of the media to register for complimentary access to key sessions, speakers, and insights shaping the future of aging services.

Registration is now open. To learn more and secure your spot, visit: https://aginginnovation.org/events/annual-conference/.

Additional details, including the conference microsite and full agenda, will be released soon.

ABOUT AGINGIN

AgingIN is a global nonprofit dedicated to being the catalyst for person-directed living and empowered cultures in the community of one’s choice. Their consulting, technical assistance, and education services empower aging services providers to implement lasting change and transformation that is meaningful and measurable. Formerly known as the Center for Innovation, AgingIN was born from the merging of two of the most influential voices in eldercare transformation: Pioneer Network and THE GREEN HOUSE® Project. For more information, visit: https://aginginnovation.org/.

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NEWS SOURCE: AgingIN

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (AgingIN), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/agingin-opens-registration-for-longevity-pre-summit-and-2026-conference-peak-purpose-redefining-how-we-live-and-age/

Hearing Loss Is a Brain Health Issue: Six Risks and What to Do About Them

Neuroscientist Dr. Kelly Tremblay Explains Why Protecting Hearing is Key to Brain Health in the New Brain Bytes Episode

BALTIMORE, Md., April 2, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Hearing loss affects one in three adults over age 65 and is a leading cause of years lived with disability worldwide. In its latest Brain Bytes micro-cast, AgingIN, a national leader advancing innovation in eldercare, features neuroscientist Kelly Tremblay, PhD, who highlights growing evidence that reframes hearing loss as a critical, and often overlooked, brain health issue.

Image caption: AgingIN, a national leader advancing innovation in eldercare, covers the importance of hearing loss and how it can affect brain health in its Brain Bytes micro-cast, featuring neuroscientist Dr. Kelly Tremblay.

“A powerful connection exists between hearing and brain health. Hearing is not just about sound. It is about cognition, connection, and long-term independence,” Tremblay says. “The good news is that hearing loss is not inevitable. In many cases, it’s preventable, detectable, and manageable.”

Over the past decade, research has advanced rapidly, reshaping how experts understand brain health. The focus is shifting from extending lifespan alone to actively protecting healthspan, and hearing is emerging as a key factor in maintaining cognitive vitality.

“Untreated hearing loss can lead to social withdrawal, early retirement, and reduced independence. Addressing it early helps individuals stay connected, active, and cognitively engaged,” continues Tremblay.

SIX DAILY STEPS TO PROTECT HEARING AS WE AGE:

Rethink hearing loss as a brain health issue.
Hearing loss does not just affect the ears. When the brain receives less sound input, the areas responsible for processing sound become damaged. Over time, this reduced stimulation prevents the brain from conveying and interpreting sound in a clear, meaningful way,even when sounds are made louder. Some research studies report hearing loss as a possible risk factor for dementia.
Do not assume hearing loss is inevitable.
A common misconception is that hearing loss simply comes with age. Tremblay emphasizes that lifestyle factors such as repeated exposure to loud noise, along with certain medical treatments, play a major role. Prevention starts earlier than most people think, beginning in our youth.
Watch for subtle early warning signs.
Hearing loss develops gradually, making it easy to miss. Often, others notice the changes before you do – because you might misunderstand what they said, or ask them to repeat themselves. Key indicators include difficulty following conversations, assuming others are mumbling and not speaking clearly, sensitivity to loud sounds (hyperacusis), and ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
Practice better “hearing hygiene” every day.
Protecting hearing is an ongoing habit. Reducing exposure to loud environments, being mindful of headphone volume, and addressing medical issues early can help preserve hearing over time. Small daily choices can have a long-term impact.
Get your hearing tested.
Testing is more accessible than many people realize. In addition to clinical evaluations, new options are available, such as online tools, mobile apps, and community-based screenings. Early detection is critical, not only to rule out medical concerns but also to maintain brain engagement.
Use the tools that keep you connected.
Hearing aids and assistive technologies can significantly improve your quality of life. Even though they don’t restore your hearing, because the ear and brain have been deprived of sounds for many years, they can still be very helpful. Traditional hearing aids and newer over-the-counter amplifiers can help you stay engaged in conversations, which is essential for brain health.

AgingIN continues the conversation at its annual conference, “Peak Purpose: Redefining How We Live and Age,” in Denver, August 10-13, where Tremblay will discuss the latest research on brain health and hearing with Dr. Shelly Chadha of the World Health Organization. Learn more: https://aginginnovation.org/events/annual-conference/

Brain Bytes, hosted by neuroscientist, audiologist, and World Health Organization advisor Dr. Kelly Tremblay, delivers quick, evidence-based insights that make brain science accessible and actionable. Drawing on more than 25 years of experience as a professor, researcher, advocate and clinician, Dr. Tremblay simplifies complex topics related to aging and brain health and shares them so people can age well.

ABOUT AGINGIN

MULTIMEDIA

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NEWS SOURCE: AgingIN

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/hearing-loss-is-a-brain-health-issue-six-risks-and-what-to-do-about-them/

Elder Care Reforms, Advances and Call to Action: AgingIN’s Elevate Eldercare Podcast Tackles Long-Term Care Challenges

BALTIMORE, Md., Feb. 11, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — AgingIN, a global leader in long-term care culture transformation, released a special episode of the Elevate Eldercare podcast today, featuring a candid conversation between AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan and Susie Singer Carter, creator of the documentary “No Country for Old People.” The episode explores the film’s unflinching look at aging services and calls for a multilayered movement grounded in accountability, public pressure, and cultural change.

Image caption: The Elevate Eldercare podcast brings together thought leaders, activists, academics, and advocates in aging services.

Ryan and Singer Carter discuss the systemic challenges the elder care industry faces, while Singer Carter shares her experiences caring for her mother. Ryan also shares her past experience as a director of nursing in nursing homes and her path to advocating for culture change in long-term care. Throughout the interview, Singer Carter calls for help in developing alternatives to institutionalization, emphasizing person-directed care.

“This is a conversation we need to be having right now,” said Ryan. “Institutional care models were never built for human living, and it shows. If we want better care, we have to create cultures that respect the workforce and honor the humanity of every person who lives there. A human-first ethos isn’t radical, it’s necessary. And it doesn’t require a massive leap. Every care environment can start somewhere.”

Through its global advocacy work, AgingIN supports person-directed living and empowered cultures in the community of one’s choice through consulting, education, research, and a global network.

“We need a movement. We need the public to rally for real change and push back against the industry lobby that has allowed this crisis in long-term care to continue. Families across this country deserve better, and we cannot let this go on,” Singer Carter says.

The Elevate Eldercare podcast airs new episodes every Wednesday, led by host Susan Ryan, who brings together thought leaders, activists, academics, and advocates in aging services, providing a space for thoughtful discourse and diverse perspectives. In February, additional guests include Stu Hamilton, CEO and Founder of Amba, which offers personalized senior care technology solutions; Kim Brawley, Regional Vice President at AgeWell Solvere Living, which manages senior living communities across the U.S.; Mary Naber, President and CEO of PACE Southeast Michigan, a healthcare provider and insurer helping elders live independently; and Dr. Kelly Tremblay, advisor to AgingIN announcing a new microcast called “Brain Bytes.”

Listen to the Elevate Eldercare podcast by AgingIN at: https://aginginnovation.org/news/elevate-eldercare-podcast/.

ABOUT AGINGIN

MULTIMEDIA:

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Image caption: The Elevate Eldercare podcast brings together thought leaders, activists, academics, and advocates in aging services.

NEWS SOURCE: AgingIN

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/elder-care-reforms-advances-and-call-to-action-agingins-elevate-eldercare-podcast-tackles-long-term-care-challenges/

Vegan high school seniors can earn college scholarships

BALTIMORE, Md., Dec. 3, 2024 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — The Vegetarian Resource Group (VRG) announced that $50,000 in college scholarship money will be awarded to graduating high school students who have promoted veganism in their schools and/or communities. Awards will include one $10,000 scholarship and six $5,000 scholarships, plus runner-up prizes.

Image caption: The Vegetarian Resource Group.

Students will be judged on their promotion of Vegan diets in a positive way.

For application information, visit https://www.vrg.org/student/scholar.htm.

The deadline for application is February 20, 2025. The student must be an American high school senior at time of application and plan on attending an American college.

PAST WINNERS INCLUDE:

An Indiana girl who worked to have her school cafeteria add vegan chicken nuggets, buffalo wings, a black bean burger, and a side option of fiesta black beans.

A student from Utah who encouraged his Culinary Arts Class and Food Science class to include vegan recipes and his French Club to explore French vegan food. He put his vegan caring into action by cooking and serving nourishing tasty vegan meals at a local youth center for 50-60 kids experiencing homelessness.

For more details about The Vegetarian Resource Group scholarship contest, see https://www.vrg.org/student/scholar.htm.

For media queries and general questions, email vrg@vrg.org

ABOUT THE VEGETARIAN RESOURCE GROUP:

The Vegetarian Resource Group is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization which educates the public about veganism and is publisher of Vegan Journal. A vegetarian does not eat meat, fish, or fowl. A vegan is a vegetarian who does not use other animal products such as eggs and milk. For more information on veganism and The Vegetarian Resource Group visit https://www.vrg.org/.

For information on vegan teenagers, see https://www.vrg.org/nutrition/VeganNutritionForTeenagers.pdf. To see veggie restaurants around the U.S. and Canada where you can take your favorite vegetarian teen, go to https://www.vrg.org/restaurant/index.php

NEWS SOURCE: The Vegetarian Resource Group

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (The Vegetarian Resource Group), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/vegan-high-school-seniors-can-earn-college-scholarships/

Matrix Advises Watershed Car Wash on the Successful Recapitalization of the Company

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- Matrix Capital Markets Group, Inc. ("Matrix"), a leading independent investment bank, announces that it served as lead advisor on the recapitalization of Watershed Car Wash's ("Watershed" or the "Company") portfolio comprised of 30 express tunnel car wash sites.

The McDowell Family built their first express tunnel wash in 2009 under the Clean Freak brand. The management team continued to scale the platform in the Arizona market which was ultimately sold to True Blue Car Wash. After selling the portfolio in 2020, the McDowell's embarked on building the Watershed platform in both Texas and subsequently Oklahoma, where the Watershed portfolio has a significant presence.

Trevor McDowell, President & CEO commented, "The Matrix team offered unparalleled support and deep insights during the entire process, from the initial valuation project to the execution of the recapitalization mandate. Their unwavering dedication and adaptability, along with their efficient execution, resulted in a positive outcome for all stakeholders. Their comprehensive expertise and experience, in both valuation assignments and capital advisory mandates, played a crucial role in us selecting Matrix and ensuring success in a complex recapitalization."

In its role as sole intermediary, Matrix provided valuation and capital advisory services to Watershed including ASA valuations, financial modeling and sensitivity analysis, capital structure assessment, negotiation with counterparties, and placement of debt capital. The capital advisory assignment was managed by John Whalen, Head of Matrix's Capital Advisory Investment Banking Group; Ryan Weir, Director and Garrett Novotny, CFA, CPA, Senior Analyst. The valuation assignment was managed by Sean Dooley, CFA, ASA, Managing Director, Matrix's Downstream Energy & Convenience Retail Investment Banking Group; Stephen Lynch, CFA, CPA, Managing Director and Nate Wah, CPA, Senior Associate.

Mr. Weir and Mr. Dooley added, "We very much appreciate the trust that Watershed placed in us to advise them on the valuation process and recapitalization. Watershed is a great operator and the recapitalization represents a transformational moment for the Company as it further scales its platform. Matrix was privileged to work with the Watershed Team."

About Matrix Capital Markets Group, Inc.:

Founded in 1988, Matrix Capital Markets Group, Inc. is an independent, advisory focused, privately-held investment bank headquartered in Richmond, VA, with additional offices in Baltimore, MD and New York, NY. Matrix provides merger & acquisition and financial advisory services for privately-held, private-equity owned, not-for-profit and publicly traded companies. Matrix's advisory services include company sales, recapitalizations, capital raises of debt & equity, corporate carve outs, special situations, management buyouts, corporate valuations and fairness opinions.

Our industry focused, dedicated sector advisory groups serve clients in the automotive aftermarket, downstream energy & convenience retail, healthcare and outdoor recreation & marine markets. Our broad sector advisory groups serve clients in a wide range of industries including business services, consumer, diversified industrials, restaurants and transportation & logistics.

For additional information or to contact our team members, please visit https://matrixcmg.com/.

Securities offered by MCMG Capital Advisors, Inc., an affiliate of Matrix Capital Markets Group, Inc., Member FINRA & SIPC

Matrix Capital Markets Group, Inc. ("Matrix"), a leading independent investment bank, announces that it served as lead advisor on the recapitalization of Watershed Car Wash's ("Watershed" or the "Company") portfolio comprised of 30 express tunnel car wash sites.

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

UPDATE AND CANCELLATION – Fugitive Captured / Reward and Awareness Fundraiser for Allahnia Lenoir

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- We have amazing news to share: the fugitive, Steven Oboite, has been captured! This is a tremendous relief for the family and a significant step towards justice. As a result, we are canceling the planned fundraiser event, the Family of Allahnia Lenoir announced today.

Oboite, who had eluded authorities for almost two years was captured by Department of Natural Resources Officers on Lake Allatoona, GA, while jet skiing on Saturday, June 1. The Department of Natural Resources says game wardens tried to pull him over for a no wake violation, but he took off, ditched the jet ski on the shore and ran into the woods. Game wardens tracked him down and arrested him. He will now join two accomplices, Diante Reynolds and Nicholas Hendrickson behind bars.

Allahnia went out with a friend for an evening of fun on July 30, 2022. They stopped by 1660 Peachtree St. Apartments, Atlanta, GA where Diante Reynolds and Steven Oboite lived. Her friend eventually left leaving Allahnia behind and Allahnia has never been seen or heard from since.

EVENT CANCELED:

Given the successful capture, the fundraiser scheduled for June 12, 2024 is now canceled. We sincerely thank everyone who contributed and supported this cause to get justice for Allahnia.

In Pursuit with John Walsh will still air Allahnia's segment on June 12th at 10 pm ET with this update. Please plan to watch.

We will be issuing refunds for all donations. You will receive an email confirmation once your refund has been processed.

Abraham Lenoir, Allahnia's father said, "We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has helped us thus far. Your support has been invaluable." He continued, "While this is a significant victory, it is just one step on our journey towards full justice. We still have a long way to go, and we hope to continue counting on your support for future initiatives."

Event information as follows:

CANCELED - Catch the Fugitive Fundraiser: Help Us Get Justice for Allahnia Lenoir!

June 12, 2024 | 7PM - 11:30PM ET

Fraternal Order of Police

3920 Buena Vista Avenue

Baltimore, MD 21211

For more information about Allahnia, visit: https://www.allahnialenoir.com/.

We have amazing news to share: the fugitive, Steven Oboite, has been captured! This is a tremendous relief for the family and a significant step towards justice. As a result, we are canceling the planned fundraiser event, the Family of Allahnia Lenoir announced today.

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

Family Hosts Reward and Awareness Fundraiser for Missing Woman, Allahnia Lenoir

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Family of Allahnia Lenoir today announces they are hosting an intentional and purposeful fundraiser aimed at making our community safer. With Diante Reynolds and another accomplice, Nicholas Hendrickson, in custody, we're rallying together to raise funds for a significant reward to be offered for the capture of the remaining suspect, Fugitive Steven Oboite, who has eluded authorities for too long.

Participation in this event directly contributes to making our streets safer and bringing justice for Allahnia. At 10 p.m. ET, during the event, we will watch "In Pursuit with John Walsh" on Discovery ID to find out more about Allahnia's story and the joint efforts to find Steven Oboite.

24-year-old Allahnia Lenoir went out with a friend for an evening of fun on July 30, 2022. They stopped by 1660 Peachtree St. Apartments, Atlanta, GA where Diante Reynolds and Steven Oboite lived. Her friend eventually left leaving Allahnia behind and Allahnia has never been seen or heard from since. Although Oboite's accomplices are in custody, Oboite remains a fugitive from justice.

"Together, let's make a difference and bring closure to all of us who have been traumatically affected by the actions of Steven Oboite," said Allahnia's father, Abraham Lenoir. "Please join us for an unforgettable event filled with purpose and community spirit!"

Event information as follows:

Catch the Fugitive Fundraiser: Help Us Get Justice for Allahnia Lenoir!

June 12, 2024 | 7 p.m. - 11:30 p.m. ET

Fraternal Order of Police

3920 Buena Vista Avenue

Baltimore, MD 21211

Donation is $25 per person

MORE INFORMATION:

For more information about Allahnia and the fundraiser, visit: https://www.allahnialenoir.com/.

The Family of Allahnia Lenoir today announces they are hosting an intentional and purposeful fundraiser aimed at making our community safer. With Diante Reynolds and another accomplice, Nicholas Hendrickson, in custody, we're rallying together to raise funds for a significant reward to be offered for the capture of the remaining suspect, Fugitive Steven Oboite, who has eluded authorities for too long.

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

Matrix Advises on the Sale of Eastern Sierra Propane to Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- Matrix Capital Markets Group, Inc. ("Matrix"), a leading, independent investment bank, announces that it has advised Eastern Sierra Propane ("Eastern Sierra" or the "Company") on its sale to Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. (OTC: FGPR) ("Ferrellgas"). The Company is one of the premier propane retailers in the Eastern Sierra Nevada mountain range, serving both residential and commercial customers.

The Company was founded in 1993 in Bishop, CA by Tom Sigler and Rudy Forster. Initially, Eastern Sierra was run out of Tom Sigler's house, and propane storage was obtained by using a 12,000-gallon tank at a customer's location in exchange for installing vapor meters on his gas dryers. It soon became very clear that the Company needed a much larger space and their own propane storage. As such, the Company leased a nearby property in Bishop, CA and installed their first 30,000-gallon propane tank.

Tom Sigler subsequently acquired Rudy Forster's 50% ownership interest, and Tom along with his son, Jason Sigler who joined in 1998, have significantly grown the Company over the last two plus decades.

Matrix provided merger and acquisition advisory services to the Company, which included valuation advisory, marketing the business through a confidential, structured sale process, and negotiation of the sale. The transaction was managed by Sean Dooley, CFA, Managing Director; Spencer Cavalier, CFA, Co-Head of Matrix's Downstream Energy & Convenience Retail Investment Banking Group and Nate Wah, CPA, Senior Associate.

Tom Sigler, President and Shareholder of Eastern Sierra, said, "When I decided to sell my business I researched companies who had the best transaction closing results, and I found that Matrix Capital was the top firm. They were helpful by first providing me with a valuation of my business and then finding a buyer who was the best fit for my employees and customers. I am glad that I made the decision to choose Matrix for there were many challenges along the way and they were there to help. Sean Dooley and Nate Wah were more than helpful in walking me through those challenges. I would recommend Matrix to anyone who was considering selling their business."

Mr. Dooley added, "We very much appreciate the trust that Tom placed in us to advise him on the sale of the Company that he and his family worked so hard to build. It was a pleasure working with him and the Ferrellgas team on this transaction, and we wish Tom and Jason all the best in their future endeavors."

Stephen Kappos served as legal counsel for Eastern Sierra.

About Matrix's Downstream Energy & Convenience Retail Investment Banking Group:

Matrix's Downstream Energy & Convenience Retail Investment Banking Group is recognized as the national leader in providing transactional advisory services to companies in the downstream energy and multi-site retail sectors including convenience retailing, petroleum marketing & distribution, propane distribution, heating oil distribution, lubricants distribution, petroleum logistics, terminals, car washes and quick service restaurants. Group members are dedicated to these sectors and draw upon complementary experiences to provide advisory services to complete sophisticated merger and acquisition transactions, debt and equity capital raises, corporate valuations, special situations and strategic planning engagements. Since 1997, our Downstream Energy & Convenience Retail Investment Banking Group has successfully completed over 300 engagements with a total transaction value of more than $15 billion.

About Matrix Capital Markets Group, Inc.:

Founded in 1988, Matrix Capital Markets Group, Inc. is an independent, advisory focused, privately-held investment bank headquartered in Richmond, VA, with additional offices in Baltimore, MD and New York, NY. Matrix provides merger & acquisition and financial advisory services for privately-held, private-equity owned, not-for-profit and publicly traded companies. Matrix's advisory services include company sales, recapitalizations, capital raises of debt & equity, corporate carve outs, special situations, management buyouts, corporate valuations and fairness opinions. Matrix serves clients in a wide range of industries, including automotive aftermarket, building products, car washes, consumer products, convenience retail, downstream energy, healthcare and industrial products. For additional information or to contact our team members, please visit https://matrixcmg.com/.

Securities offered by MCMG Capital Advisors, Inc., an affiliate of Matrix Capital Markets Group, Inc., Member FINRA & SIPC

Matrix Capital Markets Group, Inc. ("Matrix"), a leading, independent investment bank, announces that it has advised Eastern Sierra Propane ("Eastern Sierra" or the "Company") on its sale to Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. (OTC: FGPR) ("Ferrellgas"). The Company is one of the premier propane retailers in the Eastern Sierra Nevada mountain range, serving both residential and commercial customers.

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

Matrix Announces the Successful Sale of Day Motor Sports, LLC

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- Matrix Capital Markets Group, Inc. ("Matrix"), a leading, independent investment bank, is pleased to announce the sale of Day Motor Sports, LLC ("Day Motor Sports" or the "Company") to Chief Executive Officer Dan Hamilton and Chief Financial Officer Stacy Hamilton. Prior to the sale, Day Motor Sports was owned by funds managed by Gen Cap America, Inc. ("Gen Cap"), a private investment firm headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee.

Since 1971, Day Motor Sports has been a leading bumper-to-bumper distributor of aftermarket parts and supplies for the enthusiast racing industry. Headquartered in Tyler, Texas, the Company is the preeminent supplier of dirt track racing parts in the Southern United States, with the ability to ship to all 50 states and internationally. The business stocks over 15,000 SKUs in its 46,000 square foot facility, earning the Company a reputation as the premier one-stop entity for its targeted markets.

Despite its origins as a catalog distributor, Day Motor Sports has grown its sales approach through multiple channels, including e-commerce, broadening its reach to retail customers, as well as local parts distributors, manufacturers, and institutional vehicle builders.

Matrix provided merger and acquisition advisory services to Day Motor Sports, which included valuation advisory, marketing the business through a confidential, structured sale process, and negotiation of the transaction. The transaction was managed by William O'Flaherty, Managing Director; David Shoulders, Managing Director and Head of Matrix's Consumer & Industrial Investment Banking Group; Matt Oldhouser, CPA, Vice President; Sahan Pandey, Senior Analyst; and Hampton Massie, Analyst.

Mr. O'Flaherty remarked, "This transaction continues Matrix's excellent momentum in the automotive and enthusiast markets. We see excellent opportunities ahead in each of these industries and are glad we were able to utilize our relevant expertise in this transaction."

Mr. Shoulders added, "We are grateful to have had the opportunity to represent Gen Cap in this transaction. Our relationship with Gen Cap spans decades and we are pleased to have achieved a successful outcome on this important assignment. We also congratulate Dan and Stacy and wish them continued success."

Tyson Bickley at Holland & Knight LLP served as legal counsel for Day Motor Sports.

About Matrix Capital Markets Group, Inc.:

Founded in 1988, Matrix Capital Markets Group, Inc. is an independent, advisory focused, privately-held investment bank headquartered in Richmond, VA, with additional offices in Baltimore, MD and New York, NY. Matrix provides merger & acquisition and financial advisory services for privately-held, private-equity owned, not-for-profit and publicly traded companies. Matrix's advisory services include company sales, recapitalizations, capital raises of debt & equity, corporate carve outs, special situations, management buyouts, corporate valuations and fairness opinions. Matrix serves clients in a wide range of industries, including automotive aftermarket, building products, car washes, consumer products, convenience retail, downstream energy, healthcare and industrial products.

For additional information or to contact our team members, please visit https://matrixcmg.com/.

Securities offered by MCMG Capital Advisors, Inc., an affiliate of Matrix Capital Markets Group, Inc., Member FINRA & SIPC

Matrix Capital Markets Group, Inc. ("Matrix"), a leading, independent investment bank, is pleased to announce the sale of Day Motor Sports, LLC ("Day Motor Sports" or the "Company") to Chief Executive Officer Dan Hamilton and Chief Financial Officer Stacy Hamilton. Prior to the sale, Day Motor Sports was owned by funds managed by Gen Cap America, Inc. ("Gen Cap"), a private investment firm headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee.

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

Matrix Announces the Successful Sale of Vital Plastics, Inc.

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- Matrix Capital Markets Group, Inc. ("Matrix"), a leading, independent investment bank, is pleased to announce the sale of Vital Plastics, Inc. ("Vital Plastics" or the "Company"), a high-volume manufacturer and assembler of injection molded plastic products, to Wolverine Capital Partners ("Wolverine Capital").

Headquartered in Baldwin, WI, Vital Plastics provides injection molding, assembly operations, and tooling solutions to the transportation, industrial, consumer durable, and building product sectors. Operating out of two facilities, totaling over 65,000 combined square feet, the Company manufactures products such as automotive and window clips, industrial components and medical parts, among others, for a blue chip customer base of numerous Fortune 500 entities located throughout the United States. Value-added capabilities, including advanced engineering and design consulting, coupled with unrivaled responsiveness and customer service, has earned Vital Plastics its reputation as a preeminent manufacturer of injection molded products.

Over the past decade, leadership of the organization has transitioned from majority owner Terry Townsend to CEO George Hauser and President & CFO Matthew Fish. Mr. Hauser and Mr. Fish have been instrumental in helping grow and modernize the Company during that period, including driving the implementation of industry-leading automation and reporting systems. Mr. Fish will continue as the lead of day-to-day operations moving forward.

Regarding the transaction, Mr. Fish commented, "We are pleased to partner with the Wolverine Capital team. Of all the groups we interacted with, their team resonated most deeply with us given their straightforward approach and passion for building businesses. We are uniquely aligned in recognizing the attributes that have driven the Company's success: its loyal employee base and longstanding customer relationships, most of which date back multiple decades. We look forward to our next chapter of growth with Wolverine Capital."

Matrix provided merger and acquisition advisory services to Vital Plastics, which included valuation advisory, marketing the business through a confidential, structured sale process, and negotiation of the transaction. The transaction was managed by William O'Flaherty, Managing Director; David Shoulders, Managing Director and Head of Matrix's Consumer & Industrial Investment Banking Group; Matt Oldhouser, CPA, Senior Associate; Sahan Pandey, Senior Analyst; and Hampton Massie, Analyst.

Regarding Matrix's services, Mr. Hauser noted, "My partners and I were impressed by the level of commitment and sophistication that Matrix brought to the transaction. Their detailed knowledge of our specific industry, paired with their experience in transaction advisory, created tremendous value for us. We are extremely grateful for their efforts."

Mr. O'Flaherty added, "We are thrilled to have found such an excellent partner for Vital Plastics. We congratulate Terry on building such an impressive business and commend George for the tremendous work he's done as CEO to position the organization for the next phase of growth. We have no doubt that Matt will continue to find success as part of this new partnership given his commitment to providing world-class services to his customers."

Brian Pitney and David Carroll of Sands Anderson PC served as legal counsel for Vital Plastics. Dykema Gossett PLLC served as legal counsel for Wolverine Capital.

About Matrix Capital Markets Group, Inc.

Founded in 1988, Matrix Capital Markets Group, Inc. is an independent, advisory focused, privately-held investment bank headquartered in Richmond, VA, with additional offices in Baltimore, MD and New York, NY. Matrix provides merger & acquisition and financial advisory services for privately-held, private-equity owned, not-for-profit and publicly traded companies. Matrix's advisory services include company sales, recapitalizations, capital raises of debt & equity, corporate carve outs, special situations, management buyouts, corporate valuations and fairness opinions.

Matrix serves clients in a wide range of industries, including automotive aftermarket, building products, car washes, consumer products, convenience retail, downstream energy, healthcare and industrial products.

For additional information or to contact our team members, please visit https://matrixcmg.com/.

Securities offered by MCMG Capital Advisors, Inc., an affiliate of Matrix Capital Markets Group, Inc., Member FINRA & SIPC

Matrix Capital Markets Group, Inc. ("Matrix"), a leading, independent investment bank, is pleased to announce the sale of Vital Plastics, Inc. ("Vital Plastics" or the "Company"), a high-volume manufacturer and assembler of injection molded plastic products, to Wolverine Capital Partners ("Wolverine Capital").

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

Join the Notary Training Network as the host of the Maryland Notary Conference on Preventing Document Fraud, Forgery, and Identity Theft

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Notary Training Network is pleased to announce the highly anticipated Maryland Notary Training Conference, dedicated to combating document fraud, forgery, and identity theft. The conference will take place on October 21, 2023 at the Best Western Premier Rockville Hotel & Suites in Rockville, Maryland. This conference is open to notaries in all states.

In today's increasingly interconnected world, the threat of document fraud, forgery, and identity theft has become a pervasive concern. Notaries, who play a crucial role in verifying the authenticity of signatures on legal documents to help deter fraud, are at the forefront of combating these criminal activities with minimal training on how to identify fraudulent red flags. To equip notaries with the necessary knowledge and skills to prevent such fraudulent practices, Notary Training Network aims to bring together industry experts, professionals, and enthusiasts for a day of comprehensive training and education at this notary training conference.

The conference will feature a lineup of distinguished speakers, including renowned experts in the fields of document authentication, forgery detection, and identity verification.

Attendees will have the opportunity to gain valuable insights from these experts through an engaging keynote speech and interactive discussions. Participants will learn about the latest industry best practices, cutting-edge technologies, and emerging trends in preventing document fraud, forgery, and identity theft.

KEY TOPICS THAT WILL BE COVERED DURING THE CONFERENCE INCLUDE:

1 - Recognizing counterfeit documents and spotting forged signatures

2 - Implementing advanced security measures to safeguard sensitive information

3 - Conducting thorough identity verification processes to prevent impersonation

4 - Leveraging technology for document authentication and fraud prevention

5 - Staying up-to-date with legal regulations and compliance requirements

Notaries attending the conference will have the opportunity to network with industry peers, exchange valuable insights, and establish professional connections. The event will serve as a platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing, fostering a stronger community of notaries committed to combating document fraud and protecting the integrity of legal documents.

Whether you are a seasoned notary public, an aspiring professional, or simply interested in understanding the vital role notaries play in preventing document fraud, forgery, and identity theft, the Maryland Notary Conference welcomes all enthusiasts.

Limited seats are available, so early registration is encouraged to ensure participation in this highly anticipated event that was curated to teach you:

1 - How to protect your notary commission, so that you don't lose it

2 - What not to do as a notary to avoid being charged criminally due to misconduct

3 - How proper record keeping in a logbook can save you from prosecution if you get called into legal proceedings from a notarization that is questioned in court

4 - How notarization for someone that is a victim of identity theft can be impacted if you don't verify identity correctly

5 - How expert testimony is important when you have to talk about signature forgery in writing and altered document fraud in a special keynote from an expert Document Examiner and Forensic Analyst

6 - How to recognize red flags in today's digital age with technological advancements in notarization

REGISTRATION:

Registration for the conference is now open, and interested individuals can visit the official conference website at: https://www.notarytrainingnetwork.org/ to secure your spot.

For sponsorship opportunities, media inquiries, or any further information, please contact: Michol A. Bobb at info@notarytrainingnetwork.org.

About Notary Training Network:

Notary Training Network is a leading authority dedicated to promoting excellence, professionalism, and integrity within the notary profession. Committed to providing resources and educational opportunities to notaries, they strive to elevate industry standards and protect the public from fraudulent activities. Through events, training programs, and advocacy efforts, Notary Training Network is at the forefront of driving positive change within the notary community.

The Notary Training Network is pleased to announce the highly anticipated Maryland Notary Training Conference, dedicated to combating document fraud, forgery, and identity theft. The conference will take place on October 21, 2023 at the Best Western Premier Rockville Hotel & Suites in Rockville, Maryland. This conference is open to notaries in all states.

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

The first in-state notary training course provider is approved in Maryland since education law mandate in 2021

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- Notary Training Network founder, Michol Bobb announces becoming the first in-state approved notary public training program. Michol has been organizing and facilitating notary training workshops since 2015, initially starting as meetups in the Baltimore area to connect with other notaries. On July 25th this year, the Maryland Secretary of State's office added the course provider to its website as an approved notary trainer.

Michol focuses on foundational training and professional development for notary applicants in Maryland. She refers to her course as "on-the-job training for notaries". The cost of the class is $297.

Attendee Shelley Barksdale left this review "So glad that I took the Intro to Notary Practice course. Everything was explained in clear and concise detail. I am more knowledgeable about the laws and processes of notarizing documents and I would recommend this course to anyone who is considering becoming a notary or has become newly commissioned. This course should be a prerequisite."

While waiting for the course to be approved Michol shifted her focus to building self-study training modules. She also has a Mobile Notary Fundamentals course for those who want to turn their notary commission into another stream of income and learn the business side of providing notary services. Notary education is important because it makes you knowledgeable on how to reduce liability from improper notarizations when dealing with important documents.

The Intro to Notary Practice class is currently facilitated once a month on Saturdays. The purpose of this 6-hour class is to teach individuals about current Maryland notary laws, industry best practices, and how to conduct notarial acts. After class, there is also a 50-question exam to pass to apply for your notary commission.

Renewal applicants (active commission and no exam required) have the option to take the self-study course online at https://www.notarytrainingnetwork.org/.

By the end of the session, you will be knowledgeable about the rules, regulations, and ethics of conducting notarizations in Maryland.

As an employer, you might be asking yourself, "Why does notary education matter?" If you have notaries on staff, the benefits this training provides include reduced liability from claims made due to improper notarizations. Your notaries will learn how to identify fraudulent notarizations, you can add notary as a new service, and annual training for professional development.

Notary Training Network is actively looking for volunteers, sponsors, and event proposals.

Notary Training Network founder, Michol Bobb announces becoming the first in-state approved notary public training program. Michol has been organizing and facilitating notary training workshops since 2015, initially starting as meetups in the Baltimore area to connect with other notaries. On July 25th this year, the Maryland Secretary of State's office added the course provider to its website as an approved notary trainer.

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

Memoir ‘Stigmatized: A Hero’s Journey’ Debunks Cannabis Myths, serves as an Inspiring look into one nurse’s experience of discovering her super power

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- Founder of Cannabis Nursing Solutions, Nurse and Author Ashley Wynn-Grimes, RN, has announced the release of her new memoir, "Stigmatized: A hero's Journey" (ISBN: 978-1637903476). The book highlights the stereotypes surrounding medical cannabis for patients within the cannabis community.

Creator of Cannabis Nursing Solutions, Maryland's leading organization that advocates for holistic health practices and appropriate medical use, Wynn-Grimes's memoir highlights the nurse's experience of overcoming stigmas within the cannabis nursing community. The memoir also discusses the importance of access to medical cannabis for patients struggling with certain ailments such as pain and seizure disorders.

Native to the Baltimore community, Nurse Wynn-Grimes was inspired to write "Stigmatized: A Hero's Journey" after realizing her story resonated with her students so deeply. She realized very early on there was a need to address the gap within the nursing community. For each of the nurses she worked with, the saying went "I do not feel like a hero." As an educator for other nurses who aspire to build brands within the Cannabis industry, one recurring notion they felt was the stigma that follows cannabis patients.

The memoir is available at http://www.stigmatizedthebook.com/

Wynn-Grimes writes how she hopes her book will help nurses remember their vitality to the medical community. Every person should know they are special, but nurses have a calling to heal. We have watered down the concept of what it means to be a hero. I wanted to bring it back to life through highlighting the archetypes that make it true.

As it relates to the. COVID-19 pandemic, Wynn-Grimes explained, "While most people were on lock down, nurses left their homes to care for other's loved ones. Many of us were survivors and not the hero's we are noted to be. It is time to reclaim our place in healthcare and begin to advocate for the patients we serve."

BOOK SYNOPSIS

Heroes aren't born knowing they are a hero. Most stumble upon the magic within them when faced with a seemingly unsurmountable difficulty. Rather than view their superhuman ability as a tool of survival, they accept the challenge and use it to impact the world.

Nurses are undoubtedly heroes. Daily, nurses around the world withstand unhappiness, toxic environments, and sometimes unfair challenges. Many are so overwhelmed; they never do the work to change their circumstances. They focus on surviving and hope that one day, a knight in shining armor will come to their rescue. Their only failure is not realizing that they are the knight.

Author Ashley Wynn-Grimes found herself in the same survival cycle. In this memoir, she unveils the challenges she faced as a nurse, fighting to win in a ring where the rules had been rigged. She sheds light on her path to finding freedom through entrepreneurship and building a brand around cannabis medicine. "STIGMATIZED" is designed to help nurses realize their magic and empower them to build a lifestyle that supports their overall well-being.

Learn more: http://www.stigmatizedthebook.com/

Ashley Wynn-Grimes MS, RN is the Founder of Cannabis Nursing Solutions(tm) and author of children's book Asa's Medicine. For more information about the author or Cannabis Nursing Solutions(tm) visit http://www.cannabisnursingsolutions.com/

DIVERSITY

Cannabis has been used in many cultures for generations but over the past decade, cannabis is growing in its use and popularity in America. "Stigmatized: A hero's journey" provides an underrepresented perspective from a black female nurse whose an advocate for Cannabinoid Therapy. Diversity goes beyond the representation of races but is inclusive of various perspectives despite race, gender and sexuality.

For more information, please visit: www.cannabisnursingsolutions.com

Media inquiries, please contact: gratitude@cannabisnursingsolutionsllc.com

About Ashley Wynn-Grimes BSN, RN:

Ashley Wynn-Grimes BSN, RN is the Founder of Cannabis Nursing Solutions, LLC and author of children's book "Asa's Medicine." Native to Baltimore, MD, Wynn-Grimes, a Black female entrepreneur and widely respected medical professional, Wynn-Grimes is dedicated to empowering patients and nursing professionals to make informed medical cannabis care choices with impactful educational medical programs that also serve to promote diverse representation and medical equality in cannabis.

A registered nurse for more than 12 years, Wynn-Grimes holds a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing and Master's Degree in Nurse Education from Towson University. She also has a certification in Professional Development and is a certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. During her career, Ashley has worked in various healthcare settings, including telemetry nursing, quality improvement and professional development. She is responsible for pioneering non-traditional cannabis patient care programs in Maryland that offer standardized approaches to dispensing cannabis for nursing professionals and children in school settings.

Cannabis Nursing Solutions' continuing nursing education activity is approved by the American Holistic Nurses Association, an accredited approver by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Commission on Accreditation. Through evidence, standardization and change management, Nurse Wynn-Grimes plans to fundamentally alter the way healthcare providers view medical cannabis.

Founder of Cannabis Nursing Solutions, Nurse and Author Ashley Wynn-Grimes, RN, has announced the release of her new memoir, "Stigmatized: A hero's Journey" (ISBN: 978-1637903476). The book highlights the stereotypes surrounding medical cannabis for patients within the cannabis community.

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

WIS ED Assists in Increasing the Cybersecurity Workforce by Delivering High Quality Cybersecurity Courses

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- WIS ED LLC (WIS ED) has partnered with Tech Quest Apprenticeship, a national initiative led by Clark University's School of Professional Studies, to provide information technology (IT) and Cyber-related pre-apprenticeships and apprenticeships to unemployed, underemployed, and incumbent workers through 2023.

Statement from Dr. Duane Wilson, CEO, WIS ED LLC:

"It is the primary goal of WIS ED to address the sizable shortage of professionals equipped to respond to cyber-threats. WIS ED is excited to partner with Clark University on their Tech Quest Apprenticeship program to help the nation step closer to a workforce that can handle cybersecurity threats wherever they may arise."

Statement from Dug Jones, Program Director, Tech Quest Apprenticeship:

"Apprenticeships are the perfect vehicle and WIS ED is the perfect partner to maximize this opportunity to help develop young people for careers in IT and Cybersecurity."

Background

Tech Quest Apprenticeship and WIS ED LLC partnered to maximize the impact of their grant funding from the Office of Apprenticeship within the U.S. Department of Labor's Employment and Training Administration.

According to the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE):

* There is an estimated global shortage of 3.12 million cyber professionals.

* 50% of surveyed, hiring managers state that applicants lack the qualifications needed to perform cyber jobs.

* As of April 2021, in the US, there are 464,420 total cybersecurity job openings and 956,341 total employed cybersecurity workforce.

It is due to this need that WIS ED was established: to address the digital skills, cyber training and education gap at all levels of education. An apprentice pipeline is a key part of the strategy to build this workforce, hence the partnership with Clark University's Tech Quest. Tech Quest assists individuals 17 years and older who are unemployed, underemployed or are incumbent workers needing new skills.

Together, WIS ED and Tech Quest are providing pre-apprenticeship / apprenticeship program development and expansion assistance for the following profession: Cyber Security Analyst. To further their reach, WIS ED will also add job titles for Information Technology and Software Engineering to their apprenticeship program. Tech Quest's grant funding focuses on eight states: California, Florida, Massachusetts, Missouri, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Oregon, and Texas. WIS ED's reach in Maryland and other states supports Tech Quest's efforts as well as assist with employment opportunities for the workers that reside in these communities.

ABOUT WIS ED LLC:

WIS ED LLC, established in 2020, is a for-profit organization located in Anne Arundel County, MD. WIS ED is a Cyber Training and Education Firm focusing on the delivery of advanced technical content in several areas to include: Blockchain Technology, Cloud Computing, Cyber Security, Computer Science, and Data Science. Through our education services, we have developed cyber focused curricula for secondary education students (specifically 11th and 12th graders), programs for postsecondary and graduate institutions and other courses for educational organizations.

Through our training services, we offer Cyber Training or simulations to educators, employees, or trainers in many industries to include Federal, Commercial, and Academia. The training we provide comes in the form of summer boot camps (for at-risk youth), certification training programs (for employees and career changers) and information sessions (for the general population). We have trained over 200 individuals since 2020. Our Maryland State approved Pre-apprenticeship/Apprenticeship program is another avenue to assist individuals who are seeking a career in cybersecurity. More Information: https://www.wiseducation.org/

ABOUT TECH QUEST APPRENTICESHIP:

Tech Quest Apprenticeship, funded by a $12 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment, and Training Administration, provides business technology training nationwide for unemployed and underemployed individuals, and to those who seek to master relevant technology skills in an evolving workplace. Clark University is working with the Public Consulting Group (PCG) and a national consortium of workforce development boards to provide 4,000 pre-apprenticeships and 1,000 information technology (IT) and IT-related apprenticeships to thousands of individuals in eight states through 2023. More information: https://www.clarku.edu/schools/sps/programs/workforce-grants/

ABOUT CLARK UNIVERSITY:

Founded in 1887, Clark University is a liberal arts-based research university that prepares its students to meet tomorrow's most daunting challenges and embrace its greatest opportunities. Through 33 undergraduate majors, more than 30 advanced degree programs, and nationally recognized community partnerships, Clark fuses rigorous scholarship with authentic world and workplace experiences that empower our learning community to pursue lives and careers of meaning and consequence. Clark's academic departments and institutes develop solutions to complex global problems across the disciplines, and the University addresses the behavioral health of adolescents and young adults through the Mosakowski Institute for Public Enterprise. More Information: https://www.clarku.edu/schools/sps/

LEARN MORE ABOUT WIS ED LLC AT: https://www.wiseducation.org/

WIS ED LLC (WIS ED) has partnered with Tech Quest Apprenticeship, a national initiative led by Clark University's School of Professional Studies, to provide information technology (IT) and Cyber-related pre-apprenticeships and apprenticeships to unemployed, underemployed, and incumbent workers through 2023.

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

EY announces Mark Cunningham and Alex Kutsishin of Sales Boomerang as Entrepreneur Of The Year® 2022 Mid-Atlantic Award finalists

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- Ernst & Young LLP (EY US) today announced that Sales Boomerang co-founders Mark Cunningham, president, and Alex Kutsishin, CEO, were named finalists for the Entrepreneur Of The Year® 2022 Mid-Atlantic Award. Entrepreneur Of The Year is one of the preeminent competitive business awards for entrepreneurs and leaders of high-growth companies who think big to succeed. Cunningham and Kutsishin were selected by a panel of independent judges based on demonstrated evidence of entrepreneurial spirit, purpose, growth and impact among other core contributions and attributes.

"It's a tremendous honor to be named one of the top entrepreneurs in and around our nation's capital. Earning this recognition for something we find so personally rewarding makes it that much sweeter," said Cunningham. "From Sales Boomerang's outset, we have swung for the fences, taking on the biggest challenge facing one of the world's largest industries. By correcting the mortgage industry's deep-seated customer retention issues, we are making a positive difference for millions of everyday consumers, and we will continue to lead our company with the best interests of borrowers firmly in mind."

"We want to marry borrowers' interests with financial institutions' offerings so they are always aligned. Borrowers never receive the wrong loan, and organizations don't have to beg for borrowers' loyalty because they have earned it," agreed Kutsihin. "Over five years of amazing growth, we have proven that this model is the future of lending. Mark and I are very proud of what Sales Boomerang has accomplished and dedicate this honor to our more than 100 team members and the hundreds of enterprise lenders that share our vision."

Regional award winners will be announced on June 29, 2022. The regional winners will then be considered by the National independent judging panel, and National awards will be presented in November at the Strategic Growth Forum®, one of the nation's most prestigious gatherings of high-growth, market-leading companies. The Entrepreneur Of The Year National Overall Award winner will then move on to compete for the EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year(tm) Award in June 2023.

For over 35 years, EY US has celebrated the unstoppable entrepreneurs who are building a more equitable, sustainable and prosperous world for all. The Entrepreneur Of The Year program has recognized more than 10,000 US executives since its inception in 1986. Entrepreneur Of The Year Award winners have exclusive, ongoing access to the experience, insight and wisdom of fellow alumni and other members of the entrepreneurial community in over 60 countries - all supported by vast EY resources.

Founded and produced by Ernst & Young LLP, the Entrepreneur Of The Year Awards are presented by PNC Bank. In the Mid-Atlantic, sponsors also include ADP, CBRE, Cooley LLP, Donnelly Financial Solutions (DFIN), DLA Piper LLP and Kelly Benefits Strategies.

About Sales Boomerang:

Sales Boomerang transformed the relationship between mortgage lenders and borrowers with the introduction of the first automated borrower intelligence system in 2017. The company's intelligent alerts notify lenders as soon as a past customer or prospect is ready and credit-qualified for a loan. As the mortgage industry's #1 borrower retention tool, Sales Boomerang is trusted by more than 150 lenders - including brokers, independent mortgage companies, credit unions and banks - to help build lasting borrower relationships that maximize lifetime customer value. To date, Sales Boomerang alerts have enabled lenders to close more than $150 billion in additional loan volume that would have otherwise been overlooked and achieve customer retention rates that outperform industry norms by an average of 3-5X. To learn more about Sales Boomerang and its No Borrower Left Behind(tm) ethos, visit https://www.salesboomerang.com.

About Entrepreneur Of The Year®:

Entrepreneur Of The Year is the world's most prestigious business awards program for unstoppable entrepreneurs. These visionary leaders deliver innovation, growth and prosperity that transform our world. The program engages entrepreneurs with insights and experiences that foster growth. It connects them with their peers to strengthen entrepreneurship around the world. Entrepreneur Of The Year is the first and only truly global awards program of its kind. It celebrates entrepreneurs through regional and national awards programs in more than 145 cities in over 60 countries. National overall winners go on to compete for the EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year(tm) title. For more information, visit https://www.ey.com/en_us/entrepreneur-of-the-year-us.

Ernst & Young LLP (EY US) today announced that Sales Boomerang co-founders Mark Cunningham, president, and Alex Kutsishin, CEO, were named finalists for the Entrepreneur Of The Year® 2022 Mid-Atlantic Award. Entrepreneur Of The Year is one of the preeminent competitive business awards for entrepreneurs and leaders of high-growth companies who think big to succeed.

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

Sales Boomerang ranks No. 19 on Financial Times’ list of The Americas’ Fastest Growing Companies

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- Sales Boomerang, the mortgage industry's top-rated automated borrower intelligence and retention system, today announced that it has clinched a top spot on Financial Times' ranking of The Americas' Fastest Growing Companies, ranking 19th overall, first among fintech firms and third in technology. Now in its third year, The Americas' Fastest Growing Companies 2022 ranking identifies the businesses across North, Central and South America with the strongest revenue growth between 2017 and 2020.

Sales Boomerang's borrower intelligence system monitors lenders' databases and alerts mortgage advisors when a past or prospective borrower is ready for a loan. Sales Boomerang's automated loan opportunity alerts help to identify the ideal times to present loan opportunities to consumers, offering lenders a 20-40% average lift to loan volume and customer retention rates as high as 85%.

The Financial Times is one of the world's leading news publications. Each year, The Financial Times partners with Statista to research and identify the 500 companies that have shown the most explosive revenue growth over a three-year timespan. In order to qualify, companies must be headquartered in the Americas and have generated at least $100,000 of revenue in 2017 and $1.5 million in 2020.

"As the mortgage industry's first automated borrower intelligence and retention platform, Sales Boomerang has earned a lofty reputation across the entire housing finance ecosystem," said Sales Boomerang Founder and CEO Alex Kutsishin. "Sales Boomerang owes its incredible growth to our nimble team of data experts and loyal lender customers, for whom we have identified hundreds of billions of dollars in potential loan opportunities."

From 2017 and 2020, Sales Boomerang saw a meteoric 3882% revenue growth. In 2021 alone, Sales Boomerang's automated borrower intelligence alerts delivered $468 billion in loan opportunities to more than 150 independent mortgage banks (IMBs), banks and credit unions.

The Americas' Fastest Growing Companies of 2022 will be featured in the weekday edition of the Financial Times newspaper. A special report featuring the complete interactive ranking alongside articles by Financial Times correspondents on the trends highlighted by the research, can be found here: https://www.ft.com/reports/americas-fastest-growing-companies.

About Sales Boomerang:

Sales Boomerang transformed the relationship between mortgage lenders and borrowers with the introduction of the first automated borrower intelligence system in 2017. The company's intelligent alerts notify lenders as soon as a past customer or prospect is ready and credit-qualified for a loan. As the mortgage industry's #1 borrower retention tool, Sales Boomerang is trusted by more than 150 lenders - including brokers, independent mortgage companies, credit unions and banks - to help build lasting borrower relationships that maximize lifetime customer value. To date, Sales Boomerang alerts have enabled lenders to close more than $150 billion in additional loan volume that would have otherwise been overlooked and achieve customer retention rates that outperform industry norms by an average of 3-5X. To learn more about Sales Boomerang and its No Borrower Left Behind(tm) ethos, visit https://www.salesboomerang.com.

About the Financial Times:

The Financial Times is one of the world's leading business news organisations, recognised internationally for its authority, integrity and accuracy. The FT has a record paying readership of 1.2 million, more than one million of which are digital subscriptions. It is part of Nikkei Inc., which provides a broad range of information, news and services for the global business community.

Sales Boomerang, the mortgage industry's top-rated automated borrower intelligence and retention system, today announced that it has clinched a top spot on Financial Times' ranking of The Americas' Fastest Growing Companies, ranking 19th overall, first among fintech firms and third in technology.

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

Sales Boomerang joins forces with Bonzo to enable automated mortgage marketing with personality

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- Sales Boomerang, the mortgage industry's top-rated automated borrower intelligence and retention system, today announced its integration with Bonzo, an omnichannel sales engagement platform designed to scale the voice of mortgage advisors so they can attract, convert and retain clients on autopilot. By enabling the automatic transferral of consumer data from Sales Boomerang, Bonzo users can engage high-intent leads instantly via automated outreach that creates a seamless lending experience.

Sales Boomerang monitors lenders' databases to identify exactly when a past or prospective customer is ready for a loan. Sales Boomerang's 11 unique loan opportunity alerts can be triggered by market factors or consumer behaviors, such as applying with another lender or reaching a target credit score.

Bonzo's automated customer engagement system is built around the idea that people want to do business with other people, not a faceless algorithm. Through personalized text, email, video, voicemail and power dialer marketing, Bonzo helps lenders create and manage meaningful connections with anyone in their business environment.

Built with simplicity in mind, the Bonzo platform is a foolproof alternative to clunky technologies that can be disruptive to busy mortgage advisors. It only takes two weeks for most lenders to integrate Sales Boomerang loan opportunity alerts with Bonzo's marketing automation campaigns and add their own voice for personalized customer outreach. Once activated, Bonzo lets mortgage advisors know the instant someone in their database 'raises their hand' by triggering an alert through Sales Boomerang.

"By harnessing relevant data to create a how, why and when for borrower outreach, Sales Boomerang can help Bonzo users further personalize their communications to each individual customer," says Bonzo co-founder Jason Perkins. "Instead of wasting manpower on incessant marketing with no relevance to the individual borrower, lenders can activate this integration to add context to their outreach and create more meaningful client interactions."

Bonzo's omnichannel outreach is customized to the voice of each mortgage advisor, and is automatically sent within moments of a consumer 'raising their hand' and triggering a Sales Boomerang loan opportunity alert. A mortgage advisor is then notified through the Bonzo platform that a conversation was initiated with an individual in their database. When that lead responds, the advisor has easy access to their information, including Sales Boomerang alert history, and is prepared to take action right away. Bonzo's marketing campaigns and content can even be customized to user specifications, so mortgage advisors only reach out using a prospect's preferred method of communication.

"Our partnership with Bonzo will create bountiful opportunities for mortgage advisors by enabling automated outreach when someone in their database triggers an alert from Sales Boomerang," said Sales Boomerang Vice President of Product Mike Spotten. "With this added insight into a borrower's financial situation and contact history, mortgage advisors can focus on building lasting relationships with their prospects."

About Sales Boomerang:

Sales Boomerang transformed the relationship between mortgage lenders and borrowers with the introduction of the first automated borrower intelligence system in 2017. The company's intelligent alerts notify lenders as soon as a past customer or prospect is ready and credit-qualified for a loan. As the mortgage industry's #1 borrower retention tool, Sales Boomerang is trusted by more than 150 lenders - including brokers, independent mortgage companies, credit unions and banks - to help build lasting borrower relationships that maximize lifetime customer value. To date, Sales Boomerang alerts have enabled lenders to close more than $150 billion in additional loan volume that would have otherwise been overlooked and achieve customer retention rates that outperform industry norms by an average of 3-5X. To learn more about Sales Boomerang and its No Borrower Left Behind™ ethos, visit https://www.salesboomerang.com.

About Bonzo:

Bonzo is an automated sales engagement platform that seeks to make selling fun again by eliminating outreach and follow up for the modern salesperson. Bonzo combines the personality with automation in voicemail, text, email, and video messaging to create meaningful conversations at scale. The platform's renowned "5-minute" rule allows its users to accomplish anything within the platform in under 5-minutes and get back to having more conversations with those that impact their business most. Bonzo's core belief is that salespeople should spend more time creating conversations, and less time on the organization of data.

Sales Boomerang, the mortgage industry's top-rated automated borrower intelligence and retention system, today announced its integration with Bonzo, an omnichannel sales engagement platform designed to scale the voice of mortgage advisors so they can attract, convert and retain clients on autopilot.

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

HousingWire Magazine selects Sales Boomerang for 2022 Tech100 Mortgage Awards

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- Sales Boomerang, the mortgage industry's top-rated automated borrower intelligence and retention system, today announced that it has been selected as a HousingWire Magazine's 2022 Tech100 Mortgage award winner for the third consecutive year. The HW Tech100 Awards recognizes the most innovative technology companies in the housing economy.

The Sales Boomerang borrower intelligence system helps improve borrower retention by monitoring a lender's database and alerting mortgage advisors when a past or prospective customer is ready for a loan. By helping lenders identify the best times to present financial opportunities with its 11 automated alert offerings, Sales Boomerang provides a more nuanced understanding of each past or prospective customer's financial situation. This insight not only makes it easier to convert opportunities into closed loans; it also builds lasting relationships with borrowers that help lenders achieve borrower retention rates greater than 85%.

"Sales Boomerang was recognized by HousingWire for the outstanding customer retention and satisfaction that our platform's borrower intelligence offers today's lenders," said Sales Boomerang Founder and CEO Alex Kutsishin. "The Sales Boomerang team works tirelessly to empower lenders with the innovative tech they need to connect borrowers with the perfect loan opportunities at the ideal time. This effort has led to our lender users closing $150 billion in additional loan volume to date."

Among other achievements, HousingWire highlighted Sales Boomerang's explosive three-year revenue growth of more than 3800% and the $468 billion in loan opportunities it delivered to 150 IMBs, banks and credit unions last year.

"This year's list of Tech100 honorees proves once again that innovation within housing is vital in differentiating the organizations who will thrive and those who will be left behind," said Clayton Collins, CEO of HW Media. "This list spotlights the innovators that are making the housing sector better and more sustainable by increasing efficiency, improving user and borrower experiences and bringing elasticity and improvements to age-old processes."

For more information about HousingWire's Tech100 Mortgage Awards, and to view the full list of 2022 winners, visit the March issue of HousingWire Magazine at https://www.housingwire.com/articles/housingwire-magazine-march-2022/ .

About Sales Boomerang:

Sales Boomerang transformed the relationship between mortgage lenders and borrowers with the introduction of the first automated borrower intelligence system in 2017. The company's intelligent alerts notify lenders as soon as a past customer or prospect is ready and credit-qualified for a loan. As the mortgage industry's #1 borrower retention tool, Sales Boomerang is trusted by more than 150 lenders - including brokers, independent mortgage companies, credit unions and banks - to help build lasting borrower relationships that maximize lifetime customer value. To date, Sales Boomerang alerts have enabled lenders to close more than $150 billion in additional loan volume that would have otherwise been overlooked and achieve customer retention rates that outperform industry norms by an average of 3-5X. To learn more about Sales Boomerang and its No Borrower Left Behind(tm) ethos, visit https://www.salesboomerang.com.

About HousingWire:

HousingWire is the most influential source of news and information for the U.S. mortgage and housing markets. Built on a foundation of independent and original journalism, HousingWire reaches over 60,000 newsletter subscribers daily and over 1.0 million unique visitors each month. Our audience of mortgage, real estate and fintech professionals rely on us to Move Markets Forward. Visit www.housingwire.com or www.solutions.housingwire.com to learn more.

Sales Boomerang, the mortgage industry's top-rated automated borrower intelligence and retention system, today announced that it has been selected as a HousingWire Magazine's 2022 Tech100 Mortgage award winner for the third consecutive year. The HW Tech100 Awards recognizes the most innovative technology companies in the housing economy.

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

Sales Boomerang teams up with OptifiNow to offer lenders an integrated experience for mortgage customer engagement

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- Sales Boomerang, the mortgage industry's top-rated automated borrower intelligence and retention system, today announced its application programming interface (API) integration with OptifiNow, a cloud-based sales, marketing and customer relationship management (CRM) platform. The integration ensures accurate borrower data flows seamlessly and automatically between the two systems, giving lenders more time to focus on nurturing borrower relationships and exceeding sales goals.

Sales Boomerang monitors mortgage lenders' customer and prospect databases to notify them exactly when a prospect or past customer is ready for a new loan. Sales Boomerang loan opportunity alerts may be triggered by market factors, like interest rate changes and home price appreciation, and consumer behaviors, such as listing a home for sale or improving one's credit score.

OptifiNow is a cloud-based sales and management software platform designed to meet the evolving needs of today's sales force. Optifinow's CRM is tightly integrated into its all-in-one platform of sales and marketing modules, giving users a simple end-to-end solution for managing all aspects of sales, marketing and business development.

Sales Boomerang's new integration with OptifiNow can be applied to any of the borrower intelligence platform's 11 unique loan opportunity alert offerings. When an opportunity alert is triggered by someone in a lender's database, that alert data is automatically ingested into OptifiNow. The CRM will then notify the loan originator (LO) associated with that customer and, depending on the user's specifications, automatically trigger personalized borrower outreach.

OptifiNow's CRM also generates a history of alerts for each prospect in a lender's CRM database. Synchronizing Sales Boomerang's real-time opportunity alerts with OptifiNow's CRM offers LOs a more nuanced understanding of a prospect's financial situation and enables lenders to build custom borrower data reports based on Sales Boomerang alert history.

"OptifiNow's intuitive, all-in-one CRM platform leverages Sales Boomerang's borrower intelligence to create a more streamlined lead generation experience," said Sales Boomerang Vice President of Product Mike Spotten. "Activating the integration between our systems will help our shared users harness the power of their database to ensure no borrower gets left behind at the closing table."

"We are thrilled to add Sales Boomerang to our ecosystem of best-in-class mortgage technology partners," said OptifiNow Vice President Sales Linn Cook. "The integration of OptifiNow and Sales Boomerang will drive greater borrower data integrity for our mutual lender clients, freeing them from the tedious process of manually gathering and tracking borrower information."

About Sales Boomerang:

Sales Boomerang transformed the relationship between mortgage lenders and borrowers with the introduction of the first automated borrower intelligence system in 2017. The company's intelligent alerts notify lenders as soon as a past customer or prospect is ready and credit-qualified for a loan. As the mortgage industry's #1 borrower retention tool, Sales Boomerang is trusted by more than 150 lenders - including brokers, independent mortgage companies, credit unions and banks - to help build lasting borrower relationships that maximize lifetime customer value. To date, Sales Boomerang alerts have enabled lenders to close more than $150 billion in additional loan volume that would have otherwise been overlooked and achieve customer retention rates that outperform industry norms by an average of 3-5X. To learn more about Sales Boomerang and its No Borrower Left Behind(tm) ethos, visit https://www.salesboomerang.com.

About OptifiNow:

The OptifiNow platform combines CRM, Intelligent Sales Automation, Configurable Sales Processes, Sales Enablement, Reporting & Analytics and a robust API with integrations into a variety of complementary technologies. Many Lenders use different sales platforms for their Retail, Reverse, and Wholesale products lines, forcing them to maintain, train and support multiple technologies within their companies. OptifiNow offers a single platform that Lenders can offer to their Loan Officers, Account Executives & Call Center Agents, while Management can build their benchmark sales processes and gain critical insight on business performance to maximize revenues. More information can be found at https://www.optifinow.com/industries/mortgage.

@SalesBoomerang @OptifiNow #fintech #digitalmortgage #mortgageindustry #mortgagemarketing #noborrowerleftbehind

Sales Boomerang, the mortgage industry's top-rated automated borrower intelligence and retention system, today announced its application programming interface (API) integration with OptifiNow, a cloud-based sales, marketing and customer relationship management (CRM) platform. The integration ensures accurate borrower data flows seamlessly and automatically between the two systems, giving lenders more time to focus on nurturing borrower relationships and exceeding sales goals.

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

Sales Boomerang’s Reverse Mortgage Alert helps lenders bring timely home-equity opportunities to more homeowners

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- Sales Boomerang, the mortgage industry's top-rated automated borrower intelligence and retention system, today announced the launch of Reverse Mortgage Alert, a new addition to its pantheon of automated borrower intelligence products, as well as significant enhancements to the company's existing Rate Alert product.

The all-new Reverse Mortgage Alert notifies lenders when a past borrower or prospect would be a good candidate for a home-equity conversion mortgage (HECM), also known as a reverse mortgage. Sales Boomerang's Reverse Mortgage Alerts helps lenders identify contacts who could benefit from a reverse mortgage based on their current age and accumulated home equity. With American homeowners sitting on historic levels of untapped home equity, Reverse Mortgage Alert gives lenders the head start they need to connect with reverse mortgage prospects ahead of the competition.

Reverse mortgages include both HUD-insured and proprietary home-equity loan products that offer unique ways for older homeowners - generally, those age 62 and above - to tap their home equity. Reverse mortgages can be used to finance the purchase of a new home, make improvements to an existing home, pay for long-term care or medical expenses, or supplement a homeowner's retirement income, among other purposes.

"With untapped home equity at an all-time high, this latest expansion to our award-winning line of automated borrower intelligence and retention alerts is extremely timely," said Sales Boomerang Vice President of Product Mike Spotten. "By activating Reverse Mortgage Alerts, Sales Boomerang users can build healthier loan pipelines while helping customers access loan options they may otherwise have learned about from a competitor - or perhaps not have learned about at all."

Sales Boomerang has also enhanced its existing Rate Alert. A new feature enables users to limit the frequency of alerts they receive. In addition, a tighter integration with Optimal Blue eliminates the need for lenders to manually update their rates in Sales Boomerang; instead, lenders receive timely and accurate Rate Alerts based on Optimal Blue Mortgage Market Indices™. For more information about Sales Boomerang's Rate Watch and Reverse Mortgage alert offerings, contact your client success representative or email sales@salesboomerang.com.

About Sales Boomerang:

Sales Boomerang transformed the relationship between mortgage lenders and borrowers with the introduction of the first automated borrower intelligence system in 2017. The company's intelligent alerts notify lenders as soon as a past customer or prospect is ready and credit-qualified for a loan. As the mortgage industry's #1 borrower retention tool, Sales Boomerang is trusted by more than 150 lenders - including brokers, independent mortgage companies, credit unions and banks - to help build lasting borrower relationships that maximize lifetime customer value. To date, Sales Boomerang alerts have enabled lenders to close more than $150 billion in additional loan volume that would have otherwise been overlooked and achieve customer retention rates that outperform industry norms by an average of 3-5X. To learn more about Sales Boomerang and its No Borrower Left Behind™ ethos, visit https://www.salesboomerang.com.

Sales Boomerang, the mortgage industry's top-rated automated borrower intelligence and retention system, today announced the launch of Reverse Mortgage Alert, a new addition to its pantheon of automated borrower intelligence products, as well as significant enhancements to the company's existing Rate Alert product.

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

AARP Community Challenge Grant Program Still Accepting 2021 Applications

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- AARP Maryland invites community organizations and local governments across the state to apply for the 2021 Community Challenge grant program, now through April 14. Grants fund quick-action projects that can range from several hundred dollars for small, short-term activities to several thousand or tens of thousands for larger projects.

Now in its fifth year, the grant program is part of AARP's nationwide Livable Communities initiative, which supports the efforts of cities, towns, neighborhoods and rural areas to become great places to live for people of all ages.

"We are thrilled to bring this grant opportunity back to Maryland in 2021 and we encourage all eligible organizations to apply," said AARP Maryland State President Jim Campbell. "We've seen great results from the Community Challenge grant program in communities across Maryland, and this year we are increasing our support for projects that focus on diversity and inclusion and aid in local recovery from the coronavirus pandemic."

Since 2017, AARP has awarded 560 grants - through the Community Challenge to nonprofit organizations and government entities in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The program provides direct support to all community types, with nearly 40% of past projects benefitting rural communities, 20% going to suburban locations and 40% improving urban places. Granted projects have demonstrated an ability to help garner additional funds or support from public and private funders, encourage replication and overcome local policy barriers, and receive greater overall awareness and engagement.

AARP will prioritize projects that deliver inclusive solutions that meet the needs of diverse populations, as well as those that directly engage volunteers through permanent or temporary solutions that aim to achieve one or more of the following outcomes:

* Create vibrant public places that improve open spaces, parks and access to other amenities.

* Deliver a range of transportation and mobility options that increase connectivity, walkability, bikeability, wayfinding, access to transportation options and roadway improvements.

* Support a range of housing options that increase the availability of accessible and affordable options.

* Increase civic engagement and demonstrate the tangible value of "Smart Cities" with innovative and tangible projects that bring residents and local leaders together to address challenges and facilitate a greater sense of inclusion.

* Support local recovery from the coronavirus pandemic with an emphasis on economic development, improvements to public spaces, and transportation services.

* Ensure a focus on diversity and inclusion while improving the built and social environment of a community.

* Other community improvements. In addition, AARP wants to hear about local needs and new, innovative ideas for addressing them.

The Community Challenge is open to 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4) and 501(c)(6) nonprofits and government entities. Other types of organizations will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

The application deadline is 8:00 p.m. ET, April 14, 2021, and all projects must be completed by November 10, 2021. To submit an application and view past grantees, visit www.AARP.org/CommunityChallenge.

In 2020, AARP awarded Community Challenge Grants to support three projects in Maryland:

* University of Maryland (Hyattsville): The Community Engagement, Environmental Justice and Health Laboratory (CEEJH Lab) at the University of Maryland School of Public Health used their 2020 grant to transform their My Block Counts app (a pilot program aimed to use environmental justice and urban planning as backdrops for increasing scientific and environmental health literacy in older adults of color from the Southern/Capital region of Maryland), to include integration with local municipal 3-1-1 services so that residents can report gaps in community resources to their local policymakers. Participants learned how to report on conditions through social media posts (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok), and online social communities (e.g., sub-Reddits and other forums, Meet-Ups, Facebook Groups). The CEEJH lab's goal is to increase the digital literacy of older adults.

* Bon Secours of Maryland Foundation (Baltimore): Bon Secours Community Works (Bon Secours) received a grant to make significant improvements to the Rachael Wilson Memorial Park in southwest Baltimore's Boyd-Booth neighborhood. The park will become a lively central site as well as a space for reflection for people of every age, which will promote an enhanced quality of life and bring positive activity to the neighborhood where a derelict vacant lot once stood. Current and potential residents, and potential investors, will see exciting and unique assets in the Boyd-Booth neighborhood because of this skillfully designed and maintained public space.

* Washington County Commission on Aging (Hagerstown): The Washington County Commission on Aging put grant funds toward the purchase of a vehicle and trailer to provide critical healthcare and nutrition services to older adults throughout the rural county.

AARP Maryland works in collaboration with communities across the state, bringing people together, and providing resources and expertise to help make Maryland's counties, towns and cities great places to live for people of all ages. With 860,000 members across the state, AARP Maryland offers information and resources to support family caregivers, fight for affordable and reliable utilities, protect loved ones from fraud and scams and build new tools to help working Marylanders save for retirement.

To learn more about becoming a volunteer with AARP in Maryland visit http://aarp.org/md!

About AARP

AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin.

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

AARP Maryland invites community organizations and local governments across the state to apply for the 2021 Community Challenge grant program, now through April 14. Grants fund quick-action projects that can range from several hundred dollars for small, short-term activities to several thousand or tens of thousands for larger projects.

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

OfferMarket Adds Auctions to Commission-Free Real Estate Marketplace

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- Today, OfferMarket, a technology-enabled real estate marketplace announced the launch of OfferMarket Auctions. The company's real estate auction framework promotes buyer competition, reduces transaction costs and delivers faster closing times.

Traditional real estate transactions can be expensive, slow and frustrating for sellers. Sellers typically pay 5-6% commission to agents, spend an additional 1-5% on repairs and staging, and another 0-5% on inspection-related concessions. OfferMarket uses ecommerce marketplace principles and a streamlined, managed transaction flow (forms, titlework) to save money and time for buyers and sellers. Transactions on OfferMarket are as-is, and sellers avoid costly commissions and repairs.

OfferMarket receives a fixed service fee, typically $1,250 to $5,000, paid by the buyer at closing. A $250,000 house sold on OfferMarket would save at least $10,000 for the seller as compared to a traditional "on-market" transaction.

"It's amazing how much buyer competition we are generating and how much time and money we are saving the sellers who use our auction feature," says Daniel Sperling-Horowitz, CEO of OfferMarket. Sperling-Horowitz previously founded Zentail, an ecommerce marketplace software company backed by Y Combinator.

"With on-market housing inventory near record lows, buyers are increasingly looking off-market for their next purchase," added Sperling-Horowitz.

"I contacted OfferMarket with a bit of skepticism and very little expectation of selling my property but, within only 3 days, they had several prospective buyers inspecting the home. Very fortunately, one put in an offer which was [17% above] my asking price. From then on, their handling of the process was superb. We closed on the scheduled date. I would (and will) recommend them to anyone that I encounter who has a property to sell," said Tony Santaniello from Scranton, PA.

For additional information, please visit: https://www.offermarket.us/

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/Sy8RMWsR_Qw

About OfferMarket:

OfferMarket is a real estate marketplace that uses technology to save money for buyers and sellers. The company currently has active deals in Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Illinois.

MEDIA ONLY CONTACT
Daniel Sperling-Horowitz
CEO, OfferMarket
443-492-9941
hello@offermarket.us

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0121s2p-offermarket-300dpi.jpg

Today, OfferMarket, a technology-enabled real estate marketplace announced the launch of OfferMarket Auctions. The company's real estate auction framework promotes buyer competition, reduces transaction costs and delivers faster closing times.

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

Children’s Chorus and Rap Artist Tell Maryland ‘Sing a New Song!’

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Children's Chorus of Maryland and Baltimore rap artist and a Baltimore rap artist have teamed up with the racial justice podcast Trouble4Good to urge the Maryland General Assembly to change the pro-Confederate Maryland state song.

"We call on the Maryland General Assembly to finally get rid of the pro-Confederate song 'Maryland! My, Maryland' which has never reflected the values of 'The Free State,'" said rap artist and President of the Baltimore nonprofit "Rise with a Purpose" Anthony "Wordsmith" Parker. "On nine previous occasions the General Assembly has tried and failed to change the song. We feel the 10th time is going to be the charm."

Wordsmith and the nonprofit Children's Chorus of Maryland worked with the podcast "Trouble4Good" to create the video "Teach Our Kids a New Song," which urges viewers to contact their Maryland representatives.

The Maryland General Assembly convenes January 13 through April 12, 2021. The controversial song refers to Abraham Lincoln as a "despot," a "tyrant," and a "vandal" and calls a pro-slavery, pro-Confederacy 1861 attack on Union soldiers in Baltimore "patriotic."

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtube.com/embed/-YHyV9GqlnQ

"We can't have a stage song we are ashamed to teach our children. Let's use this time as a teachable moment so we can come together and agree on a new song our children and all of us can be proud of."

The song includes voices of children from the nonprofit Children's Chorus of Maryland (CCM), whose program seeks to empower children and value diversity. In 1995, CCM was proclaimed by Governor Schaefer to be the official Children's Chorus in Maryland.

"We understand that some people want to keep the song as part of Maryland's history," said David Searby, Co-Host of Trouble4Good. "But the truth is that for too long pro-Confederate symbols like the Maryland state song have rewritten our nation's history to justify secession, violence and white supremacy. Now more than ever after the events of January 6 our country needs to unify around symbols and songs that uplift the spirit."

Trouble4Good is a podcast on racial justice and other issues inspired by the life legacy of the late John Lewis. It launches in February during Black History Month. Learn more at: https://trouble4good.com/

The Children's Chorus of Maryland and Baltimore rap artist and a Baltimore rap artist have teamed up with the racial justice podcast Trouble4Good to urge the Maryland General Assembly to change the pro-Confederate Maryland state song.

Related link: https://trouble4good.com/

Either it is about a personality or a brand! People hardly find a great opportunity to see their brand on the cover of a magazine

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- REVÖ Mag is providing an excellent opportunity to people and brands who want to be featured on the cover. Renowned celebrity photographer Terrell Edmonds has introduced this amazing magazine named REVÖ Mag with a team of enthusiastic and creative people.

It's a new global digital media magazine that provides iconic images, captured by world class photographers and edited by a dynamic team of creative directors. The images will fuse music, fashion, lifestyle and culture.

REVÖ's editor Terrell Edmonds in chief is a celebrity photographer, celebrity personal assistant, business brand consultant and a phenomenal person. Terrell was inspired to create REVÖ Mag to appeal to an affluent readership. His versatility in the industry has crowned him the "Jack of anything fashion!"

REVÖ Mag strikes a remarkable balance between Art and High Fashion. The digital look book will be storytelling through imagery, video, and mixed media.

Loft Agency LLC. would like to announce the launch of REVÖ Mag on 01.01.2021 at 2 p.m. EST. REVÖ will be hosting an online event from NYC. This event will be streamed live from its Facebook @REVÖ MAG and Instagram @revo.mag

Learn more at: https://www.revozine.us/

FOLLOW US ON:

Instagram @Revo.Mag - https://www.instagram.com/revo.mag/

Facebook Revo.Mag - https://www.facebook.com/REVOZINE

QUERIES:

Media Queries: nora@revozine.us

Submissions: Submissions@revozine.us

Business: Team@revozine.us

*PHOTO link for media: https://bit.ly/3pBOIlM

*Media YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/GHgyaneGWNQ

REVÖ TEAM

Editor in Chief Terrell Edmonds @iamterrellj @pvstudioz terrell@revozine.us

Director of Photography Deven Dooley @devdooley

Artistic Director Jason McQuain @jasonmcquain

Public Relations Pr Nora Bonds @onlymissno

Director of Stylist Jasmine Ferrell @jasi_fe

Stylist Nichelle G. @Nichellestyles

Cinematography Trilla @Lord_trilla_ct

Director of Sales Lesley Sedgwick @leaveit2lesley

GLAM TEAM

Jalissa Williams

Imani B

Dietrick Williams

MEDIA TEAM

Westcoast Media Team

Danika Edwards @danikaedwards

REVÖ Mag is providing an excellent opportunity to people and brands who want to be featured on the cover. Renowned celebrity photographer Terrell Edmonds has introduced this amazing magazine named REVÖ Mag with a team of enthusiastic and creative people.

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

AARP Maryland Honors Volunteerism and Commitment to Community Service including 2020 Lifetime Achievement Award

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- AARP Maryland is honoring three exceptional Marylanders aged 50-plus for their volunteerism and commitment to service. The awards were formally presented this afternoon before nearly 80 guests at a virtual ceremony.

"This year's honorees set the highest example of what can be achieved when all work together for positive social change," says AARP Maryland State Director Hank Greenberg. "AARP has long valued the spirit of volunteerism and the important contributions volunteers make to their communities, neighbors and the programs they serve."

J. Joseph Curran Lifetime Achievement Award

AARP Maryland presented its 2020 J. Joseph Curran Jr. Lifetime Achievement Award for outstanding community service to Howard County advocate and civic champion, Ted Meyerson.

Named in honor of esteemed statesman J. Joseph Curran Jr., former state representative, lieutenant governor, and longtime attorney general, the Curran award recognizes exceptional individuals who have exhibited a lifetime of exemplary commitment to volunteerism and civic involvement. Meyerson is only the third person to receive this honor from AARP Maryland.

Meyerson is one of AARP Maryland's most active volunteers, as a public speaker, AARP Fraud Watch Network leader, advocate for advance care planning, a technology trainer and legislative advocate.

Meyerson has devoted much of his volunteer service to bettering the lives of older adults, as a member and vice chair of the Howard County Commission on Aging, chair of the Howard County Senior Property Tax Task Force, chair of the Howard County Commission on Aging Advocacy Committee, the state Empowerment Zones for Seniors Commission. He served on the state Committee on Oversight of Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities, was a member of the state Continuing Care Advisory Committee, Howard County Affordable Housing Commission, state Community Options Advisory Committee, Long-Term Care Payment Advisory Committee, and the Howard County Jewish Community Relations Council.

A graduate of Carnegie Mellon University, Meyerson operated his own printing company and was an associate real estate broker. His past organizational affiliations include president of the Printing Industry Association, treasurer of the B'nai Israel Congregation in Rockville and member of their board of governors. Meyerson is the past president of the United Seniors of Maryland, founder and president of the Better Aging Foundation of Maryland, a former Howard Community College adjunct professor, a retired United States Coast Guard Auxiliary member, and a past chair of the State Advisory Council on Quality Care at the End of Life.

"The reason AARP Maryland bestows this award is because of people like Ted who spend a lifetime in service to others," said AARP Maryland Associate State Director for Outreach Jen Holz. "We are always so grateful to have someone who identifies a need and then jumps right in to help."

2020 Andrus Award for Community Service

Dr. Shawn Ashworth of Anne Arundel County is the winner of the 2020 AARP Maryland Andrus Award for Community Service, named for the organization's founder Ethel Percy Andrus.

"Dr. Ashworth has dedicated herself nearly full time to serving others," said Greenberg. "She has been known to dig deep below the surface of an individual to discover their untapped skills and talents. AARP selected Dr. Ashworth for her remarkable service which has greatly benefited the community, supported AARP's vision and mission, and inspired other volunteers."

Ashworth established the nonprofit, Food 4 Thought Community Outreach Services, Inc. (F4COS), with a mission of providing veterans, the homeless and struggling families with nutritional meals, housing referrals, counseling and job skill development. Through the nonprofit, she and a team of volunteers provided weekly meals to over 100 people who call Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI) their home.

The COVID-19 pandemic has not stopped Ashworth's efforts. Since March 13, 2020, the day the state of Maryland shut down due to COVID-19, she has traveled daily to the Maryland Food Bank and other stores to pick up food and distribute to those in need.

As a volunteer with the Asbury Church Assistance Network, Inc. (ACAN) Food Pantry, Ashworth feeds over 300 families daily, donates toiletries, socks, hand sanitizers, and snacks and for the Pasadena and West County police stations, medical personnel at the Baltimore Washington Medical Center, and seniors at Pinewood East Senior Center.

A mother, grandmother and full-time employee of the Anne Arundel County Public School System Ashworth provides support to a local domestic violence shelter in Washington D.C., distributes food baskets during the holidays and conducts a back-to-school book bag event through the local Boys and Girls Club.

AARP Maryland State President's Award

AARP Maryland presented its inaugural State President's Award to Leonor Blum of Baltimore.

After three decades in academia as a history and political science professor at Notre Dame of Maryland University, Blum founded ¡Adelante Latina!, a nonprofit dedicated to helping low-income Latina girls to overcome the socio-cultural, economic and academic barriers they face in pursuing a college career. The program strives to improve high school performance through interaction with expert teachers and caring tutors, with an emphasis on reading comprehension, vocabulary, writing skills and SAT preparation.

The goal of Adelante Latina is for all participants to be accepted into either a 2-year community college or a 4-year college or university with adequate financial support. Today, 90% of ¡Adelante Latina! graduates go on to enroll in college.

"We are honored to present Leonor Blum our first-ever State President's Award," said AARP Maryland State President Jim Campbell. "AARP's mission is to 'empower people to choose how they live as they age,' and Leonor is doing just that. Her intergenerational work bringing retired educators together with Latina girls in Baltimore City is quite extraordinary."

ABOUT AARP

With 870,000 members in Maryland, AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. 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 https://www.aarp.org/ or follow @AARP and @AARPadvocates on social media.

AARP Maryland is honoring three exceptional Marylanders aged 50-plus for their volunteerism and commitment to service. The awards were formally presented this afternoon before nearly 80 guests at a virtual ceremony.

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

Coach Jaliel Thompson Helps Nursing Aide Go from Minimum Wage to Six Figures in 90 Days

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- Jaliel Thompson, founder and CEO, Thompson J. Enterprises, LLC (DBA Jaliel Thompson Coaching), had so much success with his coaching business that he recently relaunched the brand to meet evolving client needs. As a result, his company is now able to take on larger clients and help them to get faster results. It seems to be paying off - in more ways than one. Clients are now seeing results that they thought impossible, but hoped were not.

For example, a woman in her mid-30s recently contacted Thompson to help her get out of financial dire straits. She had gone through a divorce and knew there was no way she could survive on her minimum wage nursing aide salary. Her goal was to land a job as an IT specialist that paid six figures. But how? Most would say she'd be lucky to land an entry-level job in a new field.

"I admit, this was a challenge I had not seen to date, but I was willing to work with her and confident that we could help her to change her life," Thompson says. "I'm all about the underdog; I've been one."

Thompson's team worked together to help this client meet her challenge head on. They revised her resume, found IT references in the field and provided her with the necessary resources and training so she could pass the exam for her IT certification. After 90 days, it happened. She landed a six-figure cyber security IT position with a government agency.

Thompson's team continued to support the woman in her new position until she felt comfortable and no longer required assistance. As a result, she's taken the strategies learned to maintain her position, has paid off her debt, purchased a home and even started a business where she works as an advocate to help others make the impossible possible.

"She's found her purpose," Thompson says. "Helping people to rediscover their passion through purpose is what we do - not just professionally, but personally too."

Whether people seek to achieve more balance, reduce stress, gain more self-esteem or reach any other personal or professional goal, Thompson and his team are ready to take on the challenge.

Consultations are free.

About Jaliel Thompson

Thompson transformed his life through mentoring and coaching. He's a certified professional life, executive and business coach who trained at Life Coach Institute of Orange County. Since 2012, he's been helping to edify, empower and enlighten people in all walks of life. Online and one-one-one coaching are available for men, women and families. He's served more than 10,000 clients and looks forward to helping many more.

For more information: https://offer.jalielthompsoncoach.com/jaliel_ebook

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjaliel/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/iamjaliel

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Jaliel-Thompson-Coaching-1328858530549433

*VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/D3OHPk5G6Mw

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0715s2p-jthompson-coaching-300dpi.jpg
*Photo Caption: Jaliel Thompson.

Jaliel Thompson, founder and CEO, Thompson J. Enterprises, LLC (DBA Jaliel Thompson Coaching), had so much success with his coaching business that he recently relaunched the brand to meet evolving client needs. As a result, his company is now able to take on larger clients and help them to get faster results.

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/

IMAGE LINKS FOR MEDIA:
[1] https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0630s2p-tlt-image1-300dpi.jpg
[2] https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0630s2p-tlt-image2-300dpi.jpg
[3] https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0630s2p-tlt-image3-300dpi.jpg

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/

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/

Maryland Officials and Non-Profits Unite to Combat Elder Financial Abuse PROTECT Week 2020 Launches on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- Media Advisory -- AARP Maryland announces Press Conference announcing PROTECT Week (Preventing Older Americans From Financial Exploitation) Statewide Public Education Campaign, Monday, June 15, 2020 at 10 a.m. ET.

WHO: Peter Franchot, Comptroller of Maryland

Brian Frosh, Attorney General of Maryland

Robert Hur, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland

Sean McEvoy, Asst. Commissioner of Financial Regulation (DLLR)

AARP Maryland State Director Hank Greenberg, Co-host

CCCSMD President Helene Raynaud, Co-host

WHAT: Press Conference Announcing PROTECT Week (Preventing Older Americans From Financial Exploitation) Statewide Public Education Campaign

WHEN: Monday, June 15, 2020 at 10:00 AM

WHERE: Online at https://www.facebook.com/aarpmaryland and https://www.youtube.com/aarpmaryland

CONTACT: Nancy Carr, 443-787-5382 or ncarr@aarp.org
Helene Raynaud, CCCSMD, 443-514-0600 or hraynaud@cccsmd.org

Maryland, along with states across the country, has experienced a significant increase in the number of financial exploitation cases over the last few years, particularly those involving seniors. Exploitation occurs when a person misuses or takes the assets of a vulnerable adult to benefit themselves. This frequently happens without the explicit knowledge or consent of an older or vulnerable adult, depriving the victim of vital financial resources. Many of the cases are perpetrated by professional scammers, but most exploitation is carried out by acquaintances and trusted "friends."

Project SAFE and the PROTECT Week Coalition bring together state and federal agencies, local organizations, and financial professionals who share a common goal of preventing and remedying financial exploitation of older Marylanders. PROTECT Week, held June 15-21, 2020, offers opportunities to learn about the many forms of abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation of older adults.

Now in its third year, PROTECT Week 2020 launches on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, observed on June 15. PROTECT Week resources, available on www.protectweek.org, will help Marylanders identify financial exploitation so that they may protect themselves and their loved ones from abuse. The week's activities include a teletown hall on June 17, and Spanish-language webinars on June 16 and 18, as well as the launch of a PSA campaign.

About the Partners
* The PROTECT Week Coalition includes the following partners:
* Maryland Department of Aging
* Maryland Office of the Attorney General
* Maryland Office of the Commissioner of Financial Regulation
* Maryland Office of the Comptroller
* Maryland Department of Human Services
* Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service
* Maryland Consumer Rights Coalition
* EverSafe
* ElderSAFE
* SAFE: Stop Abuse of Elders
* Baltimore County Restoring Elder Safety Today - BC REST Coalition
* AARP Maryland
* CCCSMD - Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Maryland

Visit http://www.protectweek.org for event details and registration:

Media Advisory -- AARP Maryland announces Press Conference announcing PROTECT Week (Preventing Older Americans From Financial Exploitation) Statewide Public Education Campaign, Monday, June 15, 2020 at 10 a.m. ET.

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

Maryland Food Truck Week 2020 Will Roll Out in July

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- After many weeks of reflection, we made the decision to uphold Maryland Food Truck Week's dates to July 10 - 26, 2020, event organizer Au Jus Solutions, announced today. Since Maryland entered a State of Emergency and Governor Hogan issued a stay-at-home order, Food Trucks, who are essential businesses, never truly stopped operating.

When business parks shut down, Food Trucks started to focus on helping front line workers by delivering freshly cooked hot meals to hospitals and first responders. Soon enough, all large-scale events were canceled or postponed but it did not stop the creativity of food truckers who realized that the need was now in the heart of our communities. While Marylanders were flattening the curve, Food Trucks started to set up in neighborhoods to offer more food options to residents.

"COVID-19 Pandemic truly shows the resilience of the food truck industry and its capacity to adapt to any situation in order to continue their mission of serving the community," declared Willy Dely, founder and owner of Au Jus Solutions, a Baltimore-based food and beverage consulting agency which has been organizing Maryland Food Truck Week since 2016.

The 2020 edition of Maryland Food Truck Week is presented by the Maryland Mobile Food Vending Association [MDMFVA].

"As an industry that relied heavily on catering to the masses, we suddenly had to find alternative methods to survive the pandemic and care for our families; being mobile was one of our assets, but it quickly became our downfall when it came to COVID-19's new ways of life," said Nicole Youse, President of the MDMFVA and Chef/Owner of Crossroads Bistro.

She added: "As the president of the MDMFVA, I have never been more proud to be a part of this industry and see the good the members, my competitors, my comrades, and my family are doing in this 'new' world. I was nervous about the decimation of our industry in the beginning, but I have been proven wrong, and have never been more excited to see where we take the industry from here!"

This season again, Maryland Food Truck Week benefits Meals on Wheels of Central Maryland. "In 2019, we raised $2,631.25 for Meals on Wheels of Central Maryland," said Dely. He added, "What Meals on Wheels of Central Maryland does is incredible and benefit the local community so much. Giving back to them is the minimum we can do to help them, especially during these difficult times."

The mission of Meals on Wheels is to enable people to live independently at home through the provision of nutritious meals, personal contact, and related services, which is even more important during these uncertain times.

"Since March 17th, Meals on Wheels of Central Maryland has produced, packed, and delivered over 500,000 nutritious, ready-to-heat and eat meals to homebound seniors and other vulnerable populations who are without access to food," said Stephanie Archer-Smith, Executive Director of Meals on Wheels of central Maryland. She added: "We quickly expanded our meal volume from 25,000 meals weekly to over 75,000 meals. The need for our services has continued to rise, with no foreseeable decline. We are all being called to do more, and we are answering that call with extraordinary effort, commitment and grace."

This edition of Maryland Food Truck Week will most certainly be different from past years as it will not be celebrated with large gatherings of food trucks and people. But this is the perfect opportunity to showcase the vast diversity of the industry with even more neighborhoods to visits as it is expected around 15 daily food truck spots to visit, throughout central Maryland.

All food trucks and locations will be posted on https://www.marylandfoodtruckweek.com/ in the next couple weeks.

During Maryland Food Truck Week, visitors will be invited to enjoy all culinary creations as well as exclusive specials, tailored for the celebration.

Like and Follow Baltimore Food Truck Week on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @MDFoodTruckWeek

About Au Jus Solutions:

Au Jus Solutions is a Baltimore-based food and beverage consulting company offering solutions to food trucks, restaurants, foodservice and hospitality businesses. Au Jus Solutions also offers social media marketing expertise and support, PR solutions, as well as tailored hospitality-related services for corporate happenings.

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0529s2p-food-truck-week-300dpi.jpg
*Caption: Food Trucks, who are essential businesses, never truly stopped operating.

After many weeks of reflection, we made the decision to uphold Maryland Food Truck Week's dates to July 10 - 26, 2020, event organizer Au Jus Solutions, announced today. Since Maryland entered a State of Emergency and Governor Hogan issued a stay-at-home order, Food Trucks, who are essential businesses, never truly stopped operating.

Related link: https://aujussolutions.com/

The Embassy of Haiti Hosts Bernadette Jeudy for Debut Memoir ‘Tested Innocence’

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- On Saturday, November 9, 2019, the Embassy of Haiti in Washington, D.C. will host the book launch for Maryland corporate finance businesswoman, Bernadette Jeudy, as she reads from and sales copies of her debut memoir, "Tested Innocence" (ISBN: 978-0578572123).

Her book features the compelling reality of a life-changing event that led her to becoming a health coach. It's guaranteed to resonate with readers, especially successful women who often find themselves struggling to manage the stresses of life - work, relationships and learning how to live in the moment.

The event begins at 4 p.m. The Embassy of Haiti is located at 2311 Massachusetts Avenue, NW.

"Tested Innocence" navigates the story of an impressionable young Haitian immigrant who struggles with her new life in America following the death of her Nana. She and her three siblings must learn to adapt to a new life with their mother, a woman who steps into that role amid her own struggles.

From the near-miss tragedy aboard a ferry to meeting her father for the first time, Jeudy vividly and beautifully guides us through the moments where her innocence is tested, where she questions her Creole-Haitian identity as a teenager in a mostly white American high school, to her young adult years of looking for love in unfulfilled relationships.

Jeudy is transparent in sharing the many trials and adversities that she overcame toward being the woman that she is today - confident and full of life as she enjoys each moment. The memoir is a reminder to live in the moment and hold on to the memories that shape us for who we are today.

The story opens with Jeudy as a five-year-old girl in her native Gommier, Haiti juggling youthful innocence amid handfuls of mangoes, avocados and family rituals.

The book is already receiving advance praise. "When I read the first few pages of the 'Tested Innocence' draft, I was instantly captivated by the words of the author, Bernadette Jeudy. She brought childhood memories to life with her description of how she interacted with her siblings. From their innocent acts of hiding in the bushes to observe the adults' voodoo rituals as they dedicated their meals to their gods (or so they thought), to Bernadette and her siblings collecting the food and eating it, to her love journey and soul searching in college, this book is a must read," says Darnie Tranquille, a professional business woman.

About the Author:

Bernadette Jeudy has worked in the corporate finance field for more than 15 years and is currently an operations director for a Fortune 500 company. She is also a health coach who founded CureMind Wellness & Nutrition in 2017 to assist busy professional women with stress management, weight loss and developing healthy eating habits. Jeudy migrated to the U.S. 25 years ago and attended high school, undergraduate and graduate school in New York. She currently resides in Baltimore with her family.

Attendees who purchase a copy of "Tested Innocence" can expect to hear Jeudy read excerpts from her memoir.

For more information about Bernadette Jeudy and "Tested Innocence," visit https://www.bernadettejeudy.com/.

Media Contact:
Bernadette Jeudy
1-800-561-1859

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1002s2p-tested-innocence-300dpi.jpg

On Saturday, November 9, 2019, the Embassy of Haiti in Washington, D.C. will host the book launch for Maryland corporate finance businesswoman, Bernadette Jeudy, as she reads from and sales copies of her debut memoir, "Tested Innocence" (ISBN: 978-0578572123).

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

Financial Research Firm Reveals New FLEX-10 Index to Track Performance of the Market’s Top Ten Stocks

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- Charles Street Research (CSR), a financial research and publishing think tank based in Baltimore, Maryland, recently revealed a brand new performance index for one of their top research services.

* Retirement and income expert Charles Sizemore leads development of portfolio strategy merging value and momentum metrics
* Index backtested over 20 years to cover wide range of market environments and two major crashes
* Overall performance phenomenal ... shows results that would have crushed all major benchmark indexes.

Developed by Charles Sizemore, CSR's Chief Retirement and Income Strategist, the FLEX-10 Index tracks the performance of a model portfolio comprised of the market's top ten value and momentum stocks each month.

Not to be confused with benchmark indexes like the S&P 500 or the Nasdaq, the FLEX-10 Index tracks a very small, selective group of stocks based on 27 different criteria. The index is updated monthly to reflect the rapidly changing market environment.

"For the past decade, many investors have felt like geniuses riding this ten-year bull market," Sizemore says of the new index. "But those outstanding gains have primarily been driven by about 10-20 high-flying stocks."

"Now, we're starting to see many of those stocks come under pressure. Anyone investing in a fund that tracks a broad market index is at increased risk in the months ahead. And if we're headed for a recession, anyone broadly invested in the market is likely to get crushed, just like in 2008."

Sizemore's FLEX-10 Index is designed to perform in any market environment, including a hedged position when volatility starts to pick up.

While he's the first to admit this strategy won't outperform the benchmarks every month, he's extremely confident in the long-term outlook.

"We ran an aggressive backtest all the way back to 1999 to test this out. I'm confident we've covered just about every market condition, including two major market crashes. While recently value stocks have fallen a bit out of favor, I expect the FLEX-10 Index to vastly outperform the benchmarks over the next decade."

To learn more about the FLEX-10 Index, access Sizemore's recent presentation, delivered to Charles Street Research subscribers at The Rich Investor.

http://www.flex10index.com/

https://www.facebook.com/TheRichInvestorDaily/

https://www.facebook.com/MeetCharlesSizemore/

About Charles Street Research:

Charles Street Research provides readers with economic forecasting, investment research, and proprietary economic knowledge.

We give our customers the information we would want if we were looking for it. Charles Street Research is fully independent and unbiased, and only publishes information and strategies we would want our own families to follow. Learn more at: https://www.charlesstreetresearch.com/

Press Contact:
Stephanie Gerardot
media@charlesstreetresearch.com

Charles Street Research (CSR), a financial research and publishing think tank based in Baltimore, Maryland, recently revealed a brand new performance index for one of their top research services.

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

Baltimore-Based Home Staging Firm Beautifying Home Interiors through E-Design

HAVRE DE GRACE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- Care9 Redesign Home Staging, a Havre de Grace, Maryland based professional home staging and interior redesign firm, has taken their design services digital. Their e-design services now allow clients from anywhere in the world to get expert advice on staging and redesigning their home's interior while still enjoying the satisfaction of do-it-yourself project completion.

Care9 Redesign Home Staging opened its doors in early 2018 and has been serving clients in the Harford and Cecil County areas by providing industry expertise on home staging and color consultations. Recently, the firm has added e-design to its portfolio of services, offering affordable, expert home design advice to clients anywhere in the world. Care9 focuses on helping clients create on-trend design plans for their home while allowing them the flexibility and satisfaction of ultimately completing their design project on their own.

With Care9's e-design services, clients get one-on-one online design consultations with a design expert, who works with the client to understand their needs, style preferences, budget, and desired outcomes. Using this information, Care9's team puts together an interactive design plan of each room the client is seeking design feedback on and delivers it to the client's inbox. The client is then able to provide comments and feedback and ask questions and even shop the designs provided in the interactive plan with one click. The process is hassle-free and provides the perfect level of support and interaction for do-it-yourselfers.

The benefits of e-design are numerous for the busy and budget conscious do-it-yourselfer. Since all transactions are online, clients save time by not having to find time in their schedules to meet with a designer. Additionally, clients save money by not having to pay the designer's time to shop for the products featured in the design plan-the provided plans allow the client to shop for the products themselves.

The design plan that Care9 provides also helps clients avoid potentially costly design mistakes by giving them a comprehensive design overview of their spaces, so they can see how everything works together before spending money on items and can make the determination if a piece fits into their budget or not.

Karen Kneib, owner of Care 9 Redesign Home Staging, got into the business of home design and staging because she believes that all spaces can reflect beauty, comfort, and purpose: "Every space has potential for beauty. Our joy comes from working with the homeowners and bringing out the potential in every room."

By working with clients to create trendy, on-style home designs that reflect the homeowner's personality, Care9 helps clients breathe new life into tired old spaces by providing expert design advice while understanding the client's needs.

To learn more about Care9 Redesign Home Staging and their e-design services, visit the firm's website at https://care9redesignhomestaging.com/.

About Care9 Redesign Home Staging:
Care9 Redesign Home Staging is a Baltimore-area home staging and interior redesign firm that opened its doors in 2018. The company offers hands-on home staging expertise, home color consultations, and expert e-design services. The firm holds a number of industry accreditations and is HSR Certified and a Certified Color Expert.

Care9 Redesign offers expert advice for clients looking to stage their homes for quick sales or to recreate their current home spaces for comfort and reflect their personalities. With their e-design services, Care9 is equipped to assist clients globally, providing on-trend design advice while allowing them to complete the project themselves.

For more information about Care9 Redesign Home Staging, visit their website at https://care9redesignhomestaging.com/.

Care9 Redesign Home Staging, a Havre de Grace, Maryland based professional home staging and interior redesign firm, has taken their design services digital. Their e-design services now allow clients from anywhere in the world to get expert advice on staging and redesigning their home's interior while still enjoying the satisfaction of do-it-yourself project completion.

Related link: https://care9redesignhomestaging.com/

Universal FanCon is First Large-Scale Event to Celebrate Diversity and Inclusion of Fans and Fandoms April 27-29, 2018

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- The inaugural Universal FanCon (FanCon) is the first large-scale, 24-hour, inclusive event that celebrates the diversity of fans, the diversity of fandom and the true needs of those who love pop culture. This year's event will help benefit and promote relevant causes, including Geek Club Books Charity for Autism. Hosted in Baltimore, Maryland, April 27-29, 2018, FanCon's mission is to create a sense of belonging by providing authentic connections and experiences through fan-centric parties, programs, panels and partners.

As an important part of this mission, FanCon is building accessibility and education into every aspect of the programming to make certain it is a disability- and autism-friendly event.

With its broad range of attendees, celebs, and unique experiences -- and its engaging, interactive festival atmosphere -- FanCon is the place for everyone who is a fan! To purchase tickets, visit https://www.universalfancon.com/

"Universal FanCon is more than just a new Geek convention," said Co-Founder Robert Butler. "It's an event where all fans of pop culture are being celebrated, represented and included during every step of the way: through our planning, our attendees, programs, parties, celebrity guests and unique experiences."

FanCon got its start during a dinner conversation in 2016 between Butler, his partners in the wildly popular The Black Geeks podcast, and Jamie Broadnax, founder of Black Girl Nerds.

"We're all big geeks and realized, for instance, that people of color have the same complaints as other minority groups and marginalized populations when it came to representation in the celebration of fandoms," said Butler. "Hispanics, African Americans and Asians make up 38 percent of our population and 49 percent of frequent moviegoers - and they are more likely to see a movie featuring characters to whom they can relate. So, we knew there was a need that we could fill!"

"We wanted to create a safe space that celebrated fandom differently by including the many different faces and voices that truly made up the groups, artists, affiliates, and brands that we all represented, such as women, the LGBTQ community, people with disabilities, autistic community, and people of color," said Jamie Broadnax.

"The inclusion and accessibility mission of FanCon is why Geek Club Books got involved with this inaugural event," said Jodi Murphy, President of Geek Club Books, an autism nonprofit. "Autistic representation and inclusion in pop culture, media and the community-at-large is what we've been advocating for!"

The support from Hollywood, brands, and organizations has been and continues to be amazing: Kristian Nairn, a.k.a. Hodor from "Game of Thrones"; Aydian Dowling (Trans activist), Riyadh Khalaf (YouTube sensation), Yuriko Yamaguchi (Voice Actress / "Seiyuu"); legend Billy Dee Williams; actor and comedian Orlando Jones; Mehcad Brooks ("Supergirl"); comedian, Paralympian and actress Katy Sullivan; Ricky Whittle and Yetide Badaki ("American Gods"); DC Comics and Marvel writer Greg Pak; actors Phil LaMarr, Sumalee Montano and Fryda Wolff; GRAMMY-winner Big Daddy Kane, video game composer for Sega's "Panzer Dragoon" Saori Kobayashi with TriForce Quartet, rapper Mega Ran, and electronics musician TeddyLoid; Kim Chi ("Rupaul's Drag Race"); Geek Club Books for Autism, Black Girl Nerds, Blerdgurl, ClexaCon, Disability Visibility Project, FanBros, and more.

"The people and fandoms we are representing, the support we are getting from the city of Baltimore and the committed team we've been able to build are all testaments to how important and relevant an event such as FanCon is today," said Butler. "We can't wait to see everyone in Baltimore, April 27-29!"

SPECIAL GUESTS INCLUDE (list by alpha order/more to be announced):
Yetide Badaki, Demore Barnes (actor), Steve Blum (voice of "Wolverine"), Big Daddy Kane, Bit Brigade, Mehcad Brooks, Kim Chi, DJ-Jo (DJ), DJ NightCrawler (DJ/musician), Terri Doty (voice actress), Aydian Dowling, Ducky Dynamo (DJ/musical artist), HEAVYGRINDER (DJ/producer/vocal duo), Jamal Igle (comic artist/writer), Orlando Jones, Riyadh Khalaf, Saori Kobayashi, Phil LaMarr, Bruce Langely ("American Gods"), Mega Ran, Mary Elizabeth McGlynn ("Star Wars: Rebels"), Sumalee Montano, Kristian Nairn, Greg Pak, Professor Shy Guy (music artist), SAMMUS (rapper/producer), Regine Sawyer (Women in Comics Collective), Peter Shinkoda ("Falling Skies"), Katy Sullivan, TeddyLoid, Triforce Quartet, Jeffrey Veregge (Native American comic book artist), Voia (producer/singer), Jeremy Whitley (comic series writer), Ricky Whittle, Billy Dee Williams, Fryda Wolff, Yuriko Yamaguchi.

PROGRAMS, PANELS & EVENTS INCLUDE (more to be announced):
Celebrity Meet-and-Greets, Photo/Autograph Opportunities, Lightsaber Dueling Academy, Music Concerts, Comedy Show hosted by Orlando Jones, 24-hour Arcade and eSport Gaming Tournaments, Tabletop Gaming, "American Gods" Show Panel, Kids STEM, and other programming for gaming, comics, anime, movies, TV, music, and all things fandom!

AFFILIATES & PARTNERS INCLUDE (more to be announced):
Baltimore Convention Center, 3 Black Geeks, Black Girl Nerds, BlerdGurl, ClexaCon, Comic Attack, CrunchyRoll, DC Anime Club, DeAnn Cox Chronicles, Disability Visibility Project, FanBros, Funimation, Geek Club Books for Autism, Geek Soul Brother, GeekGirlCon, Geeks of Color, Gifted Sounds Network, Graveyard Shift Sisters, Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor, Hyatt Regency Inner Harbor, I Need Diverse Games, LatinxGeeks, Marriott Inner Harbor Camden Yards, MEGASHEEN, Nerds of Color, Nerds of Prey, Pink Banana, Ramp Your Voice, Renaissance Harborplace, Shepard, Sheraton Inner Harbor, The Black Geeks, The Black Tribbles, Visit Baltimore (www.baltimore.org), and more.

For more information, to review FanCon's Accessibility information, and to purchase tickets, visit https://www.universalfancon.com/.

For more information about Geek Club Books autism nonprofit go to https://geekclubbooks.com/.

About Geek Club Books:
Using storytelling, Geek Club Books nonprofit's mission is changing perceptions and putting an end to the stigma surrounding autism, replacing fear with wonder. The nonprofit produces interactive children's comics, curriculum, assemblies, public awareness campaigns, online resources, and educational videos for acceptance in classrooms, on playgrounds and in communities. They mentor and empower autistic individuals to be the storytellers, inspiring empathy, inclusion and acceptance for those who are different. Twitter: @geekclubbooks

LOGOS for Media:
* Send2Press.com/300dpi/18-0201s2p-fancon-300dpi.jpg
* Send2Press.com/300dpi/18-0201s2p-geekclub-300dpi.jpg

@GeekClubBooks @UniversalFanCon #FanCon #Activate4Autism

The inaugural Universal FanCon 2018 is the first large-scale, 24-hour, inclusive event that celebrates the diversity of fans, the diversity of fandom and the true needs of those who love pop culture. This year's event will help benefit and promote relevant causes, including Geek Club Books Charity for Autism. Coming to Baltimore, Maryland, April 27-29, 2018.

Related link: http://geekclubbooks.com/

U.S. Governors Are Applauded for Proclaiming November Clostridium difficile (C.difficile, C.diff.) Infection Awareness Month

BALTIMORE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- Many U.S. Governors have signed a state proclamation proclaiming November 2017 as Clostridium difficile (C.difficile, C.diff.) Infection Awareness Month, the non-profit C Diff Foundation announced today.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Clostridium difficile infection (C. difficile) "has become the most common microbial cause of healthcare-associated infections in U.S. hospitals and costs up to $4.8 billion each year in excess health care costs for acute care facilities alone." Statistics provided by the CDC suggest that C. difficile cause nearly 500,000 infections in patients in the U.S. annually.

In one study noted by the CDC, among infected patients, nearly 29,000 died within 30 days of being diagnosed, and more than half of those deaths (15,000) were directly attributable to a C. difficile infection.

As a leading health care and patient advocacy organization the C Diff Foundation provides resources concerning C. difficile infection prevention, treatments, environmental safety, and support worldwide.

The C Diff Foundation continues to heighten the urgency of this life-threatening infection with government agencies, academia topic experts, and health care professionals worldwide.

"Our shared goal is to witness a significant reduction in C. difficile infections worldwide by the year 2020. We would also like to thank Rebiotix for their efforts and support with this endeavor," stated Nancy C. Caralla, Executive Director of the C Diff Foundation.

Through the State Proclamations Clostridium difficile (C.difficile, C.diff.) infection awareness has risen significantly worldwide.

About the C Diff Foundation:
The C Diff Foundation, a 501(c)(3) established 2012, comprised of 100-percent volunteering professionals dedicated at supporting public health through education and advocating for C. difficile infection (CDI) prevention, treatments, environmental safety, and support worldwide. Visit https://cdifffoundation.org/.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Denise Graham
telephone: 919-201-1512
denise@cdifffoundation.org

Many U.S. Governors have signed a state proclamation proclaiming November 2017 as Clostridium difficile (C.difficile, C.diff.) Infection Awareness Month, the non-profit C Diff Foundation announced today.

Related link: https://cdifffoundation.org/