Tag Archives: Family and Parenting

Kidventure to Open Texas Summer Programs

AUSTIN, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- After much consultation with our health professionals including infectious disease doctors and pediatricians, with newly released Guidelines for Summer Camps from the Governor's Task Force, representatives from the CDC, and many families, Kidventure, one of the largest private summer camp organizations in Texas since 1994, has made the decision to open camp programs beginning June 1, 2020 at over 24 locations in Houston, Dallas, and Austin.

The decision involved a variety of questions and obvious concerns. Can we provide a program that will mitigate the spread of Covid-19? Do we have the infrastructure to provide for the guidelines set forth by the CDC and our State? Will camp provide for the greater good of our communities? And will camp, with all its new protocols and procedures actually be 'camp' for those that need it most?

Kidventure has operated summer camps in Texas since 1994. It uses the foundations of camp to help improve the lives of its campers, caring for the mental, social, and physical wellbeing of children.

Kidventure's President, Mike McDonell said, "Never has that need - camp - been more crucial for children than right now. We believe that camp affords children with a unique opportunity to grow in confidence, to provide for hope, to battle against fear, and thrive."

Kidventure will take 26 years of experience and combine that with guidelines and protocols designed to help slow the spread of Covid-19, create a camp physical environment that is cleaner, and will implement systems to keep small groups of campers as one, and limit the flow of larger groups together. In addition, Kidventure will prescreen all those entering campsites and plans to monitor the health and wellbeing of its campers and staff during the camp day.

McDonell added, "The guidelines are not designed to be fool-proof? But the mental health of our children and the economic viability of our families and communities is not either."

Together with health professionals, Kidventure will update guidelines and will make necessary changes when and where needed.

Camps Coordinator and Vice President, Michael Valka said, "We will do as we have always done, and work to do our best. We are certain your child's experience at camp will provide them with the opportunity to reunite with friends, to once again run free, and we are certain their time with us will be cause for happiness, joy, and fun."

Kidventure has created a comprehensive Summer Camp Handbook During COVID-19 that contains all the new guidelines recently presented by the State of Texas as well as many of their own.

Kidventure has also created information on its website to help assist parents and children with questions and information about Summer Day Camp 2020.

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

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/eWJKPy8VwpI

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0521s2p-kidventure-campers-300dpi.jpg
*Caption: Kidventure Campers.

After much consultation with our health professionals including infectious disease doctors and pediatricians, with newly released Guidelines for Summer Camps from the Governor's Task Force, representatives from the CDC, and many families, Kidventure, has made the decision to open camp programs beginning June 1, 2020.

Related link: https://kidventure.com/

Americans Reminded to Enjoy the Sun Safely this Summer

WASHINGTON, D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- To turn the tide against rising rates of skin cancer in the United States, the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention - and it's broad national member coalition of over 45 organizations - has designated the Friday before Memorial Day as the 12th annual "Don't Fry Day" to encourage sun safety awareness and to remind everyone to protect their skin while enjoying the outdoors. The theme of this year's campaign is "Because Sun Safety Looks Good on You."

"As we get ready to kick off the summer with Memorial Day Weekend, it's more important than ever to be sun safe and practice social distancing. Everyone can do it by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and throwing on a wide-brimmed hat while maintaining a safe distance from others when you go outside," says John D. Antonishak, executive director of the National Council for Skin Cancer Prevention. "This years' Don't Fry Day is a reminder that you can still enjoy the outdoors while protecting yourself and those around you from skin cancer and COVID-19."

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the nation, with almost 5.5 million cases diagnosed in Americans each year - more than breast, colon, lung and prostate cancers combined. In fact, 1 out of every 5 Americans will be diagnosed with some form of skin cancer in their lifetime.

Skin cancer is highly preventable. Over 90% of all skin cancer is caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or indoor tanning devices.

Americans can dramatically reduce their risk of skin cancer by:
* Not burning or tanning intentionally - no tan is a safe tan;
* Generously applying sunscreen (remember to reapply every two hours);
* Wearing sun-protective clothing;
* Seeking shade during peak times of the day; and
* Using extra caution near water, snow and sand.

About Don't Fry Day:

"Don't Fry Day," now in its twelfth year, is the nation's unified public awareness campaign that aims to reduce the number of new skin cancer diagnoses by promoting sun safety and encouraging people to protect their skin while enjoying the outdoors. Learn more at https://www.skincancerprevention.org/programs/dont-fry-day

For more information on how to protect yourself and your family from skin cancer and help raise awareness, visit SkinCancerPrevention.org. Follow the National Council on Facebook (Facebook.com/Natlcouncilskincancerprevention) and Twitter (@SkinCancerPrev).

About the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention:

The National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention is the united voice of more than 45 organizations, associations and agencies dedicated to prevent skin cancer through education, advocacy, and raising awareness. National Council members represent the nation's premier physicians, researchers, clinicians and advocates for skin cancer prevention.

Learn more at https://skincancerprevention.org/

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0520s2p-dont-fry-day-300dpi.jpg
Photo caption: Friday before Memorial Day Declared "Don't Fry Day" to Turn Tide against Skin Cancer.

To turn the tide against rising rates of skin cancer in the United States, the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention - and it's broad national member coalition of over 45 organizations - has designated the Friday before Memorial Day as the 12th annual "Don't Fry Day" to encourage sun safety awareness and to remind everyone to protect their skin while enjoying the outdoors.

Related link: https://skincancerprevention.org/

David and Laura Merage Foundation Donates 500 Toy Boxes to Children of Healthcare Workers

DENVER, Colo. /ScoopCloud/ -- The David and Laura Merage Foundation launched the Merage Mini Heroes project to bring joy to the children of courageous frontline healthcare workers who are putting in extraordinarily long hours away from their families. Working in partnership with Timbuk Toys and several other local businesses, the foundation created 500 age-appropriate toy boxes that were gifted to parents at St. Joseph's Hospital and Denver Health.

"Our intention is to spark a bit of joy with these toys, and quite simply show these little ones how grateful we are that they are sharing their families with Coloradans in need," stated Sue Renner, Vice President of Philanthropy at the David and Laura Merage Foundation.

In honor of National Nurses Week, the foundation team delivered 500 boxes to the medical and non-medical staff at the two local hospitals. The hospitals then distributed these boxes for staff to pick up, noting the delight that their staff and the children showed when receiving these boxes.

"The Merage Little Heroes project is a humongous success! It is generating lots of excitement and overwhelming joy, and we are so thankful that David, Laura and their organization provided us with this act of kindness," responded Jamie Smith, CEO at St. Joseph Hospital.

This initiative exemplifies the deep commitment that David and Laura Merage have for early childhood education. In addition to Merage Mini Heroes, the David and Laura Merage Foundation has launched two nationwide programs focused on increasing high-quality care and education, Early Learning Ventures (ELV) and CareForAllChildren. Since its founding in 2008, ELV has impacted over 41,000 children and served 550 childcare programs around the U.S.

The CareForAllChildren campaign is paving the way for working parents and advocates to call on presidential candidates to address the childcare crisis. Each of these initiatives aims at supporting our youngest learners, families, and another set of heroes, childcare providers.

The Merage Mini Heroes initiative is unique in providing the opportunity to lift the spirts of our brave parents and their children during this challenging time. If additional hospitals and foundations are looking to participate or expand the current giving program, please contact Catharina Hughey, Operations Specialist, chughey@merage.org.

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

PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0508s2p-merage-heroes-300dpi.jpg

LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0508-mmh-box-sticker-300dpi.jpg

The David and Laura Merage Foundation launched the Merage Mini Heroes project to bring joy to the children of courageous frontline healthcare workers who are putting in extraordinarily long hours away from their families. Working in partnership with Timbuk Toys and several other local businesses, the foundation created 500 age-appropriate toy boxes that were gifted to parents at St. Joseph's Hospital and Denver Health.

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

New Children’s Book Opens Door for Dialogue About Grief and Death

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- When Bryson Thompson, Sr.'s mother passed away from stomach cancer in 2016, he grappled with how to tell his 3-year old son that he would never see his beloved grandmother again. It was this life-changing event that sparked him to write, "How Angels are Made" (ISBN: 978-1735023809).

Thompson wrote the first version only two days after returning from his mother's funeral when it became apparent that his son needed more answers than he was readily able to give. His son was confused and grieving and needed help to work through this trying time which turned the world he knew upside down.

Bryson focused his energy to create a book that would help him and his family to clearly communicate with their son about grief and death. He quickly realized that if this book could help his family to heal, it could help others too. He also saw a need for a book that focused on an African-American family.

"There are very few books on the subject where African Americans are at the center," he says.

Based on a true story about the bond between Bryson's son and mother, "How Angels are Made" is a transformational children's book that fosters needed conversations between youth and adults about grief and death. It highlights actual conversations that took place between he, his wife and their son.

In the beginning, the book highlights their personal relationship and then moves into the family's experience of dealing with loss.

Bryson exceeded his Kickstarter campaign goal with one week left, which ironically happened the day before his mother's birthday, and plans to end the campaign, which is now in its "stretch goal" and appropriately scheduled to end on Mother's Day. The additional funds will allow Bryson to provide even more free copies of the book to local schools, libraries and children who have lost a loved one or friend, than originally anticipated.

"With one in five youth currently having to deal with the death of someone close to them by the time they are 19, 'How Angels are Made' will resonate with many families around the world," Bryson says. "It's also ideal for schools, therapists, church groups and more. My hope is that this book will be a tool to help change lives."

About the Author

Bryson Thompson has more than 10 years' experience as a special education teacher and mental health professional. He's a husband, father, educator, mentor and entrepreneur. He has dedicated his life to finding ways to uplift young men and women. With a degree in Special Education from Clemson University and a Masters in Behavior/Learning Disabilities from Georgia State University, he continually works to find ways to enhance the life and experience of the future generation.

The book will be available to the public in June and pre-orders can be made here: https://howangelsaremade.com/

Support the Kickstarter campaign through Sunday, May 10, 2020: How Angels Are Made Kickstarter Campaign: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/brysonthompsonsr/how-angels-are-made-grief-through-the-eyes-of-a-child-0?ref=user_menu

Watch a YouTube video: https://youtu.be/yVuACsvUOv0

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

Image links for media:
[1] https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0505s2p-how-angels-are-made-300dpi.jpg
Photo Caption: "How Angels are Made"
[2] https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0505s2p-bryson-thompson-sr-300dpi.jpg
Photo Caption: Bryson Thompson, author, "How Angels are Made."

MEDIA CONTACT:
Bryson Thompson
+1-864-243-1202
info@howangelsaremade.com

When Bryson Thompson, Sr.'s mother passed away from stomach cancer in 2016, he grappled with how to tell his 3-year old son that he would never see his beloved grandmother again. It was this life-changing event that sparked him to write, "How Angels are Made" (ISBN: 978-1735023809).

Related link: https://howangelsaremade.com/

WIC is Serving Families in Need

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is considered an essential service. WIC staff in California are serving families during the COVID-19 pandemic, including families who never before received benefits, but are now in need of assistance.

Following Governor Newsom's Executive Order on March 30, the California Department of Public Health WIC Program has been implementing emergency protocols to provide benefits and expand the approved WIC food list to best serve families while protecting the health and safety of WIC participants and staff.

WIC provides support to low-income families with children under the age of 5 with nutritious foods for pregnant or breastfeeding parents, infants, and children, as well as nutrition education, breastfeeding support and breast pumps. Nearly one million women, infants and children are served each month in California, through 83 WIC local agencies with over 500 clinic locations. Nearly 4,000 grocers are authorized to provide WIC foods.

California recently completed transitioning from paper checks to a WIC debit card for WIC food purchases. This historic improvement makes shopping and participating in WIC easier, especially important during a crisis.

All 83 WIC local agencies are providing services to current and new participants. Clinics may be closed to the public, but staff are providing services by phone, text, email, and video conference and some see select participants in person. Families are provided WIC cards and breast pumps using creative methods such as drive-through pick-ups, receiving cards slid under the door from WIC staff, using drop boxes at WIC clinics and by mail or expedited shipment. WIC card benefits can be loaded remotely, reducing the need for families to visit WIC local agencies.

Because many WIC shoppers reported they were unable to find WIC foods such as eggs, bread, and milk, WIC expanded the food list with hundreds of new foods available now through May 31. WIC staff can assist with information on the expanded foods, and the WIC app can scan bar codes to identify foods on the expanded list.

Information on the food list and WIC app is also online: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CFH/DWICSN/Pages/TemporaryAPLExpansion.aspx

Families should not hesitate to call their WIC local agency for information on enrolling or continuing WIC services. Check online for WIC eligibility and locate the closest WIC office here: https://myfamily.wic.ca.gov/

"The California WIC Program is doing an outstanding job serving families during this crisis and will continue this critical support as families recover from this economic downturn," said Karen Farley, Executive Director, California WIC Association.

California WIC Association (CWA) is a non-profit organization formed in 1992 by directors of WIC local agencies administering the WIC program.

MEDIA CONTACT
California WIC Association
Sarah Diaz
(530) 276-1388
sdiaz@calwic.org

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0423s2p-wic-glenn-county-300dpi.jpg
*Photo caption: WIC staff at Glenn County practice social distancing and wear masks while serving WIC families.

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0423s2p-cawic-logo-300dpi.jpg

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is considered an essential service. WIC staff in California are serving families during the COVID-19 pandemic, including families who never before received benefits, but are now in need of assistance.

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

Free At-Home Exercise Videos Offer Moms & Young Children Physical Activity While Teaching Age Appropriate Developmental Skills

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Moms of babies and preschoolers can get fit while spending quality time with their child with short home workouts that incorporate animated graphics and techniques to keep children entertained, says certified personal trainer Amy Burton. In response to the COVID-19 crisis, these videos are now offered for free on YouTube to make it convenient and affordable for a mother to exercise in the comfort of her home.

The "Back In Shape With Baby" series contains low-impact workouts that target areas affected by pregnancy and childbirth. The program is unique because it incorporates baby into the workouts and utilizes on-screen graphics throughout the video to help keep baby's attention.

The videos were designed for new moms with babies age 6 weeks-12 months. A 16-page Educational Booklet that provides best exercises and tips for new moms is available as a free download at https://backinshapewithbaby.com/for-moms/.

The "Energize & Exercise With Your Preschooler" series was created to help mothers of young children fit a workout into their busy schedules while teaching children good exercise habits. Graphic animation throughout the videos keep children entertained. Some of the age-appropriate developmental skills that are addressed in workouts include the alphabet, numbers, days of the week, months of the year, colors, and shapes.

Amy Burton is the creator of these videos. She did so when her own child was young and wanted to fit exercise into her day while working full-time. Burton explains "I decided to make an effort to promote these timeless videos to offer families a healthy and fun way to spend time together while gyms and playgrounds are closed. My son is now grown but I think about all the moms who may feel isolated right now and struggling to care for new babies and young children without a support network while stay-at-home orders are in effect."

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 70% of adults are overweight or obese and 13.9% of children age 2-5 are considered obese in the United States.

"With the growing problem of obesity in both adults and children, it is more important than ever to provide easy ways to help people of all ages increase the amount of physical activity done each day," Burton said.

The 10, 15 and 20-minute video options promote interaction between mother and child. The movements help to develop coordination and increase physical activity among children. Burton consulted with medical experts when creating the videos. No equipment is needed for the exercise routines and all workouts are available for free.

Free videos can be accessed at:

Focused Fitness Solutions YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdj6a6gXxNITXp5FV628ZeA

About Amy Burton:

Amy Burton is an American Council on Exercise certified personal trainer and certified health coach, with additional training in pre-and post-natal fitness. In partnership with Dr. Sheila Devanesan, Amy co-created Fit4AllMoms, a grant-funded program launched at Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital. To learn more about Amy's credentials and her story, visit https://backinshapewithbaby.com/.

Media Only Contact:
Amy Burton
(727) 418-4396
amyburton135@gmail.com

IMAGES FOR MEDIA:
[1] https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0422s2p-amy-burton-300dpi.jpg

Caption: Get fit while spending quality time with your baby with FREE home workouts from the Back In Shape With Baby exercise series.

[2] https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0422s2p-backinshapewithbaby-300dpi.jpg

VIDEO (YouTube):
https://youtu.be/5aStnwYc7TM

Moms of babies and preschoolers can get fit while spending quality time with their child with short home workouts that incorporate animated graphics and techniques to keep children entertained, says certified personal trainer Amy Burton. In response to the COVID-19 crisis, these videos are now offered for free on YouTube to make it convenient and affordable for a mother to exercise in the comfort of her home.

Related link: https://backinshapewithbaby.com/

To Help with Stay-At-Home Boredom, Author Makes Children’s Books Free to Save Parents’ Sanity

MEMPHIS, Tenn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Author Donald Jacobsen announced today that two of his children's books, "Mighty Mommies and Their Amazing Jobs" and "My Daddy the Amazing Nurse," will be given away for free in light of the pivot to homeschooling due to the COVID-19 pandemic canceling schools for the rest of the year across the United States. The books highlight medical workers, scientists, and other community helpers.

"As a parent staying at home with my kids and wife, we understand the struggle and stress of unexpected at-home schooling," says Donald Jacobsen. "Offering my books as an educational yet fun distraction is one way I knew I could help during this trying time."

Reviewers and parents are thrilled to have the resource, with one glowing review from Kristal Leon mentioning that the books are "filled with a diverse collection of occupations that celebrate the contributions that jobs in STEM fields make in our world. Created for young readers ages 2-7 . . . helps girls picture themselves in these important roles."

Both books teach kids about the roles of medical workers and community helpers. The books will be available for free starting today. To download, parents and educators can visit https://donaldjacobsen.com/books/freebooks/.

About Donald Jacobsen and his work as an author:

Donald is a husband, the proud father of two girls, a registered nurse, and a sometimes-writer living and working in Memphis, Tennessee. His book "Mighty Mommies and Their Amazing Jobs" recently won an Honorable Mention for the Picture Books 6 & Older category of the Royal Dragonfly Book Awards.

You can read more about Donald and his works at https://donaldjacobsen.com/.

IMAGE links for media:
[1] https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0421s2p-Jacobsen-books-300dpi.jpg
[2] https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0421s2p-Author-Jacobsen-300dpi.jpg

Author Donald Jacobsen announced today that two of his children's books, "Mighty Mommies and Their Amazing Jobs" and "My Daddy the Amazing Nurse," will be given away for free in light of the pivot to homeschooling due to the COVID-19 pandemic canceling schools for the rest of the year across the United States.

Related link: https://donaldjacobsen.com/

Innovative Telehealth Company Gives Expectant Mothers and Parents Peace of Mind During COVID-19 Crisis

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- No greater concern exists in the current crisis of COVID-19 than for expectant mothers and their loved ones. The problem is two-fold, says BabyLiveAdvice. Women don't want to risk their health by exposing themselves and their unborn or newborn babies to the virus. And, even if they did try to seek outside support during these trying times, an overwhelmed healthcare system cannot meet the need.

Over the next three months, nearly a million babies will be born in the United States. Reliable information for them will remain scarce as inundated prenatal providers working in healthcare facilities with limited protective gear are overburdened and struggling to respond to patients' most basic queries.

The good news is that a Los Angeles-based, woman-owned social enterprise - BabyLiveAdvice - is ready to provide the most accurate, reliable and helpful information to its anxious members as they are going through life happiest event in fear of the unknown. The company provides expectant and new mothers with lactation support and online educational breastfeeding classes.

"Now more than ever we need to support breastfeeding considering it is one of the few reliable preventative health behaviors in this circumstance," says Genevieve Colvin, IBCLC, who is lead lactation consultant and a board member of BabyLiveAdvice.

BabyLiveAdvice partners with healthcare providers and health systems to support coordinated, comprehensive prenatal and postpartum care anywhere, by filling the educational gap for expectant mothers and parents. The end result is reduced complications and better outcomes for mothers and their babies. The company uses a HIPAA-Secure Telehealth platform, offered online through chats, calls or video face-to-face engagements between the mother/parent and a nurse/provider. Complete virtual support is offered from preconception to early childhood.

In addition to one-on-one consultations, BabyLiveAdvice offers peer and professionally led support groups and classes via the web. Programs are designed to bring people together, recognizing the shared emotional experience of pregnancy, motherhood and parenthood.

Most recently, BabyLiveAdvice partnered with three new groups:
* GravidaMom - https://www.gravidamom.com/ - a world-class video course company that also provides information guides;
* Peer Support Solutions - https://www.peersupportsolutions.com/
* Postpartum Support International - https://www.postpartum.net/.

"We want to provide members with a variety of options for peer support and online education," Sigi Marmorstein, founder and CEO, BabyLiveAdvice, says. "Our goal is to decrease isolation and improve the knowledge, health and wellbeing of our members, not just during this global health crisis, but far into the future."

BabyLiveAdvice's program has been piloted extensively, and to date helped thousands of parents to get one-on-one support in their language by a caring provider rather than through pamphlets, blogs, Google searches or articles.

Its mission to help parents and improve the statistics surrounding pregnancy, births and child rearing is working.

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

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0325s2p-marmorstein-300dpi.jpg
Photo Caption: Sigi Marmorstein, founder and CEO, BabyLiveAdvice.

No greater concern exists in the current crisis of COVID-19 than for expectant mothers and their loved ones. The problem is two-fold, says BabyLiveAdvice. Women don't want to risk their health by exposing themselves and their unborn or newborn babies to the virus. And, even if they did try to seek outside support during these trying times, an overwhelmed healthcare system cannot meet the need.

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

Are Your Kids in Danger of Being Sexually Abused at School?

SAN MATEO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Thousands of children every year are molested, used for pornography or otherwise sexually abused by teachers, coaches or other school employees - according to leading research, school employees sexually abuse one in ten students before the end of high school. New resources from Stop School Sexual Abuse (SSSA) help parents keep their kids safe.

"Children's safety is just not a priority for many schools," said Charles Gleen from SSSA. "Parents need information to know if their school can be trusted."

SSSA has created the School Sexual Abuse Database, the only directory of educator sexual abuse of students in California. SSSA also has published its School Sexual Abuse Hall of Shame, which uses some of the worst examples of schools enabling the sexual abuse of students to highlight how schools fail on children's safety.

"To reduce educator sexual abuse, parents must know if their school has been unsafe and must be able to recognize dangerous practices," said Gleen. "But that information has not been available before."

Schools don't want you to know

The SSSA database includes cases involving the sexual abuse of hundreds of students from kindergarten through high school in more than 65 communities statewide.

"Schools try to hide or minimize sexual abuse of students," said Gleen. "School sexual abuse is a powerful sign that administrators can't handle the most important part of their job - keeping kids safe. They don't want parents to know they have failed in this most basic responsibility."

Even after abuse happens, schools often do not improve safety. Many believe changes are an admission that they failed before.

"Schools don't automatically become safer, especially if the same leaders who neglected safety before remain in charge," said Gleen. "Parents should ask what has changed to make kids safe. Were school leaders held accountable? Have policies or training improved? Parents need to know what happened in order to demand needed changes."

Recognizing unsafe culture

The failings of unsafe schools are often similar from case to case, and parents can recognize the signs - if they know what to look for. The Hall of Shame provides examples of schools where sexual abuse could easily have been prevented, allowing parents to see how schools enable abuse.

"The Hall of Shame shows the failed attitudes and dangerous patterns of leadership that allow abuse to happen," said Gleen.

The Hall of Shame includes private and public schools from San Mateo (St. Matthew's Episcopal Day School), Daly City (Westmoor High School), San Jose (Dartmouth Middle School), Redlands (Redlands High School), Riverside (Liberty Elementary School) and Anaheim (Kennedy High School).

Understanding the risk

To help children stay safe, parents must first understand the risk themselves, and SSSA research provides insight into school sexual abuse.

"The diverse schools in the Hall of Shame highlight that students can be sexually abused at any school," said Gleen. "Other research shows the highest-risk employees - coaches, teachers, aftercare workers, aides and bus drivers - and reminds that predators are found in every school job."

The cases in the database also help parents understand the ways that educators manipulate children into abuse.

Promoting change through knowledge

"Predators are drawn to schools," said Gleen. "Schools give predators a constant supply of vulnerable kids. Parents need to demand that schools take necessary steps to keep kids safe."

Public pressure is the most effective way to make schools take employee sexual abuse seriously, but for that to happen, parents must know if their school failed and what to watch out for.

Search the School Sexual Abuse Database - https://stopschoolsexualabuse.site/.

Visit the School Sexual Abuse Hall of Shame - https://stopschoolsexualabuse.com/topics/school-sexual-abuse-hall-of-shame.

Other Information on School Sexual Abuse is at Key Topics - https://stopschoolsexualabuse.com/topics.

About Stop School Sexual Abuse

Knowledge is power. Stop School Sexual Abuse is a volunteer-run organization that provides victim advocacy services to school sexual abuse survivors and their families, as well as a website where survivors can tell their stories and a database of school sexual abuse cases. Our mission is to advocate and educate to reduce sexual abuse in schools. Stop School Sexual Abuse is a pro bono site supported financially by our team.

To learn more about Stop School Sexual Abuse, volunteer or submit your survivor story, visit https://www.stopschoolsexualabuse.com/.

Thousands of children every year are molested, used for pornography or otherwise sexually abused by teachers, coaches or other school employees - according to leading research, school employees sexually abuse one in ten students before the end of high school. New resources from Stop School Sexual Abuse (SSSA) help parents keep their kids safe.

Related link: https://stopschoolsexualabuse.com/

Twenty-Two States Proclaim March 2020 SUDC Awareness Month for Unexplained Childhood Deaths

ROSELAND, N.J. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood (SUDC) Foundation thanks Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia for making statewide proclamations declaring March 2020 SUDC Awareness Month.

These are the first states to join a nationwide effort led by the SUDC Foundation to raise awareness of one of the most under-recognized medical tragedies of our time, marking the beginning of a month-long campaign all over the world.

Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood (SUDC) is a category of death in children over the age of 1 year which remains unexplained after a thorough investigation, including an autopsy. Most often, a seemingly healthy child goes to sleep and never wakes up. Approximately 400 children are lost to SUDC in the United States every year.

"We have made incredible strides as we honor SUDC Awareness Month each March," said Laura Gould Crandall, President and Co-founder of the SUDC Foundation. "Last year, we surpassed serving our 1,000th family since the inception of the SUDC Foundation. While we are sorry for the reason, we are thankful these families were able to connect with our worldwide community and unique range of services. This is a true testament to the SUDC Foundation's tireless outreach and awareness efforts. But we must keep striving to ensure every family who needs us is able to find us and to advocate for research that will help us create a world without SUDC."

The SUDC Foundation will once again mark SUDC Awareness Month by hosting weekly activities for every SUDC supporter to raise awareness of SUDC and remember the children gone far too soon.

To learn more, please visit: https://sudc.org/get-involved/sudc-awareness-month

The SUDC Foundation is advocating for SUDC Awareness Month proclamations in all 50 U.S. states this March. In 2019, 43 U.S. states participated. This nationwide effort began in 2016, inspired by Drew Joseph Boswell and the Boswell family. The Boswell family successfully advocated for the first statewide proclamation declaring March 2015 as SUDC Awareness Month in the State of Louisiana.

To see a full list of previous efforts as well as additional states who have joined, please visit: https://sudc.org/get-involved/legislative-advocacy/sudc-awareness-proclamations

About the SUDC Foundation:

The SUDC Foundation is the only organization worldwide whose purpose is to promote awareness, advocate for research and support those affected by SUDC. The SUDC Foundation provides all services at no cost to families. Learn more: https://sudc.org/

Media Contact:
Stephanie Zarecky
The SUDC Foundation
Tel 973.795.1257
stephanie@sudc.org

*LOGO links for media:
[1] SUDC Logo: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/18-0228s2p-sudc-fdn-300dpi.jpg

[2] Awareness Logo: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-0301s2p-SUDC-AwarenessMonth-300dpi.jpg

The Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood (SUDC) Foundation thanks Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia for making statewide proclamations declaring March 2020 SUDC Awareness Month.

Related link: https://sudc.org/

Groundbreaking New Book Fills Dire Needs in Unexplained Pediatric Deaths

ROSELAND, N.J. /ScoopCloud/ -- The SUDC Foundation recently published a first-of-its kind book, "Unexplained Pediatric Deaths: Investigation, Certification and Family Needs" (ISBN: 978-0998904320) a collaboration between the National Association of Medical Examiners (NAME) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), which establishes the first ever national consensus guidelines in the U.S. to fill crucial needs to determine why unexplained pediatric deaths happen and how to support families after these tragedies.

Each year in the U.S., over 3,000 infants and children who are otherwise apparently healthy, die suddenly and without explanation. These deaths not only have profound effects on families, but also serious implications for our public health system. Currently, no national standards for investigating these deaths exist, severely handicapping our ability to understand and prevent them in the future.

"The devastating loss of a child is compounded when we cannot explain how that precious life ended," said Elizabeth Bundock, M.D., Ph.D., Deputy Chief Medical Examiner for the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Burlington, Vermont and one of the editors of the book. "While many of these unexplained deaths expose the limits of our collective medical knowledge, ideally, none should expose shortcomings in our effort to identify the cause of death."

Bundock adds, "The medicolegal investigation of a child death is complex, requiring the meticulous attention of multiple professionals who bring to bear special techniques and resources. Variability in the medicolegal response is inevitable and flexibility is essential. However, the guidance provided in Unexplained Pediatric Deaths can move the U.S. closer to a consistently comprehensive approach."

"Over the last two decades, I have spoken to over 1,000 families who lost seemingly healthy, thriving children suddenly, unexpectedly and most often without answers as to why," said Laura Gould Crandall, Co-founder and President of the Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood Foundation and one of the authors of the book. "These families deserve better than our current system provides. Without the improvements included in this book, we cannot truly know how many children are dying, we cannot perform the ideal research to understand and prevent them, and we cannot fully support families through their grief. We are so thankful to the authors of this book, especially the lead editors Dr. Elizabeth Bundock and Dr. Tracey Corey, for dedicating their expertise and diligently guiding our collective group of multidisciplinary collaborators to fix a broken system for the betterment of all children."

"This book draws on the experience and insight of dozens of experts from around the country," said Tracey Corey, M.D., Associate Medical Examiner for Florida Districts 5 & 24 and one of the editors of the book. "Each guideline was developed based on extensive research, historical context and sound rationale. Implementing them will advance the way we investigate these deaths, arming us with a system that will help us better determine why these deaths happen and support those we serve."

"This book represents the state-of-the art on our knowledge and assessment of sudden pediatric deaths, representing the cumulative wisdom of leading experts across diverse medical and scientific disciplines," said Orrin Devinsky, M.D., of New York University Langone Health and one of the authors of the book. "The experience of affected parents has greatly strengthened the value and sensitivity of this extraordinary effort."

"Unexplained Pediatric Deaths: Investigation, Certification and Family Needs" establishes the first national consensus guidelines to address the shortfalls in our current death investigation system. It outlines procedural guidance for a comprehensive investigation and autopsy and provides guidance to promote consistent classification of unexplained pediatric deaths, which greatly impacts our ability to understand how often they occur. It also offers recommendations for the care of families after such tragedies. Adoption of these guidelines is critical to achieve a better understanding of these deaths, successful public health prevention strategies and appropriate care of the bereaved.

"Unexplained Pediatric Deaths" began when the SUDC Foundation awarded a grant to NAME to work in collaboration with the AAP to convene an expert panel to identify and discuss these critical issues. The publication is a combined effort of a panel of medical examiners, pediatricians and federal agency representatives who represent the diverse interests of epidemiology, death investigation, autopsy performance, death certification, clinical subspecialties (neurology, cardiology, child abuse, injury prevention, infectious diseases, genetics and metabolic diseases), family needs, prevention and research.

To read a more detailed summary, please visit: https://sudc.org/education-resources/media-resources.

To learn more about the book and view a full list of authors available for interviews throughout the U.S., please visit https://sudpeds.com/.

About the SUDC Foundation:

The SUDC Foundation is the only organization worldwide whose purpose is to promote awareness, advocate for research and support those affected by SUDC. The SUDC Foundation provides all services at no cost to families. SUDC is a category of death in children over the age of 1 year which remains unexplained after a thorough investigation and autopsy.

To learn more about SUDC and the SUDC Foundation, please visit https://sudc.org/.

Media Contact:
Stephanie Zarecky
The SUDC Foundation
stephanie@sudc.org

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0212s2p-upd-book-300dpi.jpg
*Photo caption: Book jacket, "Unexplained Pediatric Deaths: Investigation, Certification and Family Needs" (ISBN: 978-0998904320).

The SUDC Foundation recently published a first-of-its kind book, "Unexplained Pediatric Deaths: Investigation, Certification and Family Needs" (ISBN: 978-0998904320) a collaboration between the National Association of Medical Examiners (NAME) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), which establishes the first ever national consensus guidelines in the U.S. to fill crucial needs to determine why unexplained pediatric deaths happen and how to support families after these tragedies.

Related link: https://sudc.org/

Spodak Dental Group to Help Eradicate Childhood Tooth Decay As Part Of National Children’s Dental Health Month

DELRAY BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Spodak Dental Group (SDG) is participating National Children's Dental Health Month with a goal to eradicate childhood tooth decay. SDG is partnering with All-Star Smiles Foundation, a non-profit organization with a mission to create a unique experience with an alliance of dentists, athletes and community partners that provides access to uncompromised dental care for underserved children in our communities.

Tooth decay is largely preventable, but it remains one of the most common diseases of childhood, and is five times as common as asthma and seven times as common as hay fever, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

During the entire month of February 2020, SDG will donate $50 from each Invisalign case accepted that month with proceeds going directly to the All-Star Smiles Foundation to screen and treat local children who are in need of dental care. The goal is to help 100 children receive free dental treatment.

WHAT: National Children's Dental Health Month and raising funds to care for underserved children who require care for dental pain and/or trauma.

WHEN: The entire month of February 2020

WHERE: Spodak Dental Group, 3911 W. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach, FL 33445

WHY: "This is an amazing opportunity to provide charitable giving to children who desperately need dental care," said Dr. Craig Spodak, general dentist. "Dental pain is the No. 1 reason a child will visit the emergency room or miss school. It's up to us to provide the care they need so they can either avoid unnecessary pain by treating smaller issues now, or helping them to get out of pain so they can get back to being a kid."

JOIN: Call or text (561) 303-2413 with any questions. To support the cause, simply email darien@spodakdental.com or text (561) 303-2413 for ways to help.

ABOUT: For more information on Spodak Dental Group, please visit: https://www.spodakdental.com/.

About Spodak Dental

The Spodak Dental Group, a 2017 Inc. 5000 honoree, has evolved to become South Florida's premier, comprehensive dental facility, and comprises a world-class association of dental professionals poised to provide full-service dental care second-to-none in both scope and skill. The Spodak Dental Group team includes General and Restorative Dentists, Endodontists, Periodontists, Board Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, Master Ceramic Artists and Anesthesiologists, as well as one of the nation's only in-office dental labs. Spodak Dental Group is located at 3911 W. Atlantic Ave. Call or text (561) 303-2413 or visit https://www.SpodakDental.com for more information.

About All-Star Smiles Foundation

The All-Star Smiles Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to eradicating the disease of childhood tooth decay. The brainchild of New York Yankees great, Giancarlo Stanton, and Dr. Craig Spodak, the organization's co-founders, All-Star Smiles received its official 501(c)3 status in April 2017. The organization unites community members, dental care providers, and children throughout the country to provide dental care to underserved children in communities nationwide. Since 2015, the organization has helped hundreds of children in receiving the dental care they need, while providing a fun, safe and comfortable experience for them at no cost. To get involved, please visit https://allstarsmiles.org/.

The Spodak Dental Group (SDG) is participating National Children's Dental Health Month with a goal to eradicate childhood tooth decay. SDG is partnering with All-Star Smiles Foundation, a non-profit organization with a mission to create a unique experience with an alliance of dentists, athletes and community partners.

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

Seventh Annual Cursive is Cool Handwriting Contest Kicks Off on January 23 – Open to Students in USA and Canada

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- For some it is a "secret code," for others it is simply cursive handwriting. The annual Cursive is Cool(R) contests kick off on National Handwriting Day, celebrated around the world on Jan. 23 each year in honor of John Hancock's birthday, the American Handwriting Analysis Foundation announced today.

Legend has it that Hancock, known for his large and showy signature on the U.S. Declaration of Independence, made his signature extra-large so "King George can see it without his spectacles."

Campaign for Cursive(R) offers three contests: one in the USA and two in Canada (one for English writers, one for French). Students in Grades 1 - 6 have the chance to test their cursive skills and their creativity in answering one of the questions presented. The deadline for the USA contest is March 15; Canada contest in English has a March 13 deadline, and the Canada contest in French has a March 20 deadline.

Supporters of the contest include the American Handwriting Analysis Foundation, Amsterdam Printing, Cursive Logic, Fahrney's Pens, Monkey Magnets, New American Cursive Penmanship, Pelikan, and PEN World. New this year for the USA contest is Itoya. Additionally, in Canada the contest has support from Laywine's, and new supporter Zebra Pen Company. Winners of the contests will receive medals, certificates, fun new writing instruments, workbooks, and accessories.

Sheila Lowe, President of the American Handwriting Analysis Foundation (AHAF), is encouraged to see the contest continue and stated, "Happily, by our count, 25 states in the USA now have requirements to teach cursive, with others producing legislation to do the same. Our organization is proud to have helped."

"Our international contests are ways for students to proudly showcase their achievement of mastering the alphabet in cursive. Kids tell us over and over how much they love writing in cursive," remarked Gayna Scott, Chair of Campaign for Cursive(R). "To them it could be their 'secret code,' the thrill of being able to sign their own name or enjoying how the pencils dances across the paper. The judges look forward to what precious thoughts they will come up with this year."

More information:
For more information, contact Lauren Mooney Bear, Organizer of this year's contest at mooneybear19@gmail.com.

Website: http://www.cursiveiscool.com/.

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Campaign4Cursiv

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/campaign4cursive/

About the American Handwriting Analysis Foundation:

The American Handwriting Analysis Foundation is a 501-(c)6 non-profit business organization, chartered and incorporated in California. Dedicated to the advancement of the handwriting sciences, AHAF promotes education for handwriting examiners at all levels of expertise and from all schools of thought, and are the sponsors of Campaign for Cursive(R). Information: http://www.ahafhandwriting.org/.

MEDIA ONLY CONTACT:
Sheila Lowe
President, AHAF
+1-805-341-7833
sheila@sheilalowe.com

For some it is a "secret code," for others it is simply cursive handwriting. The annual Cursive is Cool contests kick off on National Handwriting Day, celebrated around the world on Jan. 23 each year in honor of John Hancock's birthday, the American Handwriting Analysis Foundation announced today.

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

Nurse Innovator Impacts Moms’ and Babies’ Health in ‘Year of the Nurse and Midwife’

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- BabyLiveAdvice, Inc., a Los Angeles-based, woman-owned social enterprise, supports pregnant moms and parents from preconception through early childhood via telehealth, phone and chat. The company's mission is to help one million moms and their babies to be happy and healthy.

The World Health Organization (WHO) designated 2020 - "The Year of the Nurse and Midwife" - bringing women's issues front and center. BabyLiveAdvice is taking heed.

"The U.S. has the highest rate of maternal deaths in the developed world," Sigi Marmorstein, founder and CEO, BabyLiveAdvice, says. "Giving birth in America has become increasingly dangerous, sometimes deadly, especially for mothers who lack access to care."

In fact, the 2019 March of Dimes Report Card revealed that, for the fourth year in a row, more babies in the U.S. (approximately one out of 10) were born too soon, with the rate of pre-term births increasing steadily every year. (*Note 1.)

"We have 135 moms a week who die or are injured during childbirth or within weeks of giving birth," Marmorstein says. "There are two babies who die every hour. It's not talked about and prevention is lacking."

The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists projects that there will be a shortage of nearly 9,000 obstetricians and gynecologists by 2020, which will grow to a shortage of approximately 22,000 by 2050. This shortage is creating "maternal deserts," where 5 million women have no access to obstetricians.

"Some women have to travel five to six hours for care or even go out of state," Marmorstein says.

Marmorstein, a nurse innovator and telehealth expert with 22 years of clinical experience, believes she has a technological solution to help with this crisis. In 2018, she self-funded BabyLiveAdvice, with support of colleagues such as Milton Chen, CEO of Vsee, the HIPAA-secure platform used by BabyLiveAdvice, who support her vision.

Prior to the company's launch, extensive research and pilots showed that pregnant women and new parents are under-informed or misinformed about their pregnancy, childbirth options, breastfeeding and infant care. They lack education and have unequal healthcare access. Additionally, shorter appointment times, transportation barriers and early discharge from the hospital just serve to widen the care gap.

The pilot study went on to demonstrate that when moms are supported, educated, monitored, empowered and coached throughout their pregnancies and postpartum period they have better birth outcomes and fewer complications than moms who did not receive such help.

"We're a group of nurses and midwives who are mothers. We're from diverse cultural and clinical backgrounds and work from home caring for our children while using our skills to support and help others," Elaine Kopinga, lead nurse midwife at BabyLiveAdvice, says.

BabyLiveAdvice gives mothers/parents virtual access to advice and support from the comfort of their home. They can ask questions and get answers right away.

"From pre-conception through the baby's age of four, women have access to a personal team of professionals and it doesn't cost thousands of dollars," Lovell Valencia, clinician at BabyLiveAdvice, says.

BabyLiveAdvice fills a critical gap in the current health system. It's a budget-friendly solution and insurance companies, employers, hospitals, physicians and non-profit organizations are already collaborating because it's easy to implement. Advice staff helps physicians to manage large panels of patients, while effectively reducing physician burnout, improving care access and reducing overall costs.

"We have our eyes and ears on moms and babies and are more effective than a traditional nurse call line in reducing ER visits and calls to physicians. We improve timely escalation and emergent conditions, and reduce the overall risk of care," Marmorstein says.

While maternal deaths are not a subject many like to talk about, BabyLiveAdvice believes 2020 is the year to begin the conversation, promote awareness and produce real results that lead to positive change. They've already made a difference, but there's more to be done.

About BabyLiveAdvice

BabyLiveAdvice supports and partners with providers, employers, insurance companies and other organizations, nationally and internationally. It works to reduce maternal and infant morbidity and mortality by providing virtual prenatal/postnatal education, monitoring of chronic conditions (i.e., diabetes and hypertension), smoking and substance abuse cessation, parental nutrition and mental health screening and support.

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

*NOTE 1 (PDF): https://www.marchofdimes.org/materials/MOD2019_REPORT_CARD_and_POLICY_ACTIONS_BOOKLETv72.pdf

BabyLiveAdvice, Inc., a Los Angeles-based, woman-owned social enterprise, supports pregnant moms and parents from preconception through early childhood via telehealth, phone and chat. The company's mission is to help one million moms and their babies to be happy and healthy.

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

First Generation Students Land Big Scholarships with Online College Planning Curriculum

MARIETTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Two students will be enjoying a dream Christmas, the Foundation for Ensuring Access and Equity announced today. On December 1, Grayson High School senior, Bre'an Moore, received a congratulatory email from Carleton College, ranked #7 on the 2020 US News and World Reports Liberal Arts College Rankings, offering her admission and a scholarship valued at over $280,000 over 4 years.

On December 16, St. Petersburg Collegiate High School International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme student, Sydney Soskin, logged into the University of Chicago's student portal to check the status of her Early Decision Application. Sydney screamed and burst into tears when she read the words, "Congratulations! It is my pleasure to inform you that you have been admitted to the University of Chicago's Class of 2024." Sydney's full scholarship financial aid award is valued at over $310,000 over 4 years.

Sydney's lifetime of challenges continued into the college planning process. "Oh My God! I can't believe it. Due to problems at my school, I missed the QuestBridge deadline and was devastated. However, Mr. and Mrs. Wynn pulled me together and kept me focused on developing a solid college list and game plan. They helped me with my essays, guided me in developing an academic résumé, reviewed my Common Application, and supported me in developing the strongest possible application for UChicago. They assured me that Early Decision was my best chance of being offered admission and that I would be pleased with the financial aid award that UChicago would offer. If I did not get in, we had a back-up plan for other schools and for the Northeastern University Torch Scholars Program. When I read the letter in my student account, I called my mom and I took a screen shot and sent it to Mrs. Wynn. I still cannot stop crying. This is unbelievable."

Wynn notes, "Through our online college planning curriculum, and partnerships with school districts and community-based organizations, we are able to provide comprehensive college planning guidance to hundreds of students like Bre'an and Sydney. Students from lower income backgrounds, first generation college students, and immigrant populations lack any meaningful understanding of planning their postsecondary pathways. Our goals are to guide students into finding the 'right' colleges and 'right' scholarships, avoid student loan debt, and achieve on-time degree attainment."

On Saturday, December 21, 2019, from Noon - 2 p.m., 12 of the foundation's former cohort students will return to appear on a Free College Panel Discussion at the Turner Chapel AME Church in Marietta, Georgia where they will share insight into their journeys, scholarships, and admission into top colleges across the country. Interested students should visit their website to learn more about their College Planning Cohorts and College Planning Boot Camps.

Information: http://accessandequity.org/

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1220s2p-Sydney-mother-FAFSA-300dpi.jpg
*Caption: Sydney works alongside her mother at FAFSA Completion Session.

Contact Information:
Mychal Wynn or Nina Wynn
Foundation for Ensuring Access and Equity
P.O. Box 70457
678-395-5825
mychalwynn@accessandequity.org

Two students will be enjoying a dream Christmas, the Foundation for Ensuring Access and Equity announced today. On December 1, Grayson High School senior, Bre'an Moore, received a congratulatory email from Carleton College, ranked #7 on the 2020 US News and World Reports Liberal Arts College Rankings, offering her admission and a scholarship valued at over $280,000 over 4 years.

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

Drop-In Daycare Grand Opening in Ballantyne Neighborhood in Charlotte, NC

CHARLOTTE, N.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Although many parents enroll their children in traditional daycare facilities and schools, there is a large gap when it comes to finding part-time childcare for working parents, stay-at-home moms, and after hours. Giggles Drop-In Daycare addresses those needs and is excited to announce the opening of their Charlotte location in the Ballantyne neighborhood on December 29, 2019.

"Parents have been asking for more reliable, trustworthy resources for child care in the Charlotte, North Carolina area, and we were excited to meet the challenge," says Zach Richards, Giggles CEO and co-founder.

The new Giggles Drop-In Childcare is holding a grand opening celebration in the Ballantyne Village Shopping Center at 14815 Ballantyne Village Way, Suite 180, Charlotte NC 28277, on December 29, 2019.

This is a great way for local families to visit, meet the staff, check out the 3,400-square-foot facility and show their kids what all the fun is going to be about. The center will be open from 12 p.m. - 4 p.m., and parents can bring their children to explore the age-specific rooms, climb on the handmade treehouse and be welcomed into the Giggles family.

"We have been spreading the word since we started construction on this location earlier this year. We're thrilled to be part of the local community because we can give back to the busy moms and dads who have been asking for a flexible child care provider that they can feel confident bringing their kids to," said Richards.

Giggles offers a unique daycare center concept. Parents can drop their children off for up to four hours of fully supervised, engaging, interactive child care each day. The center will also offer after-school care and summer camps.

The company is grateful for the assistance of KEEL Concepts as the architect, Zenith Building Group as the general contractor, and Studio Displays for the incredible craftsmanship of the indoor treehouse.

In the swiftly growing Ballantyne community, this service is able to fulfill a much-desired need. When parents seek child care, they want to know that their kids are treasured, loved and cared for. They often secretly hope that the child care provider will take better care of their kids than they do.

Giggles is set up to offer parents exactly what they want from drop-in childcare in Charlotte, N.C. The flexible daycare center accommodates children from 1 to 12 years old. The facility is set up to engross kids with developmentally appropriate activities for every age while feeding their imaginations, enhancing cognitive, social and physical growth, and maintaining unsurpassed standards of care.

All staff members undergo an extensive background check and receive CPR and first aid training to ensure the well-being and safety of the children in their care. They must also have a passion for helping kids learn, grow and explore.

Perhaps even more importantly, the children love Giggles. The location will be offering daily themed crafts as well as regular movie nights and other events that keep kids begging to come back and parents excited to have a safe and nurturing environment in which to send their kids.

The Ballantyne, Charlotte drop-in childcare center is the newest of the seven locations in the southeast. The family-owned franchise is passionate about bringing this unique and time-tested approach to as many families as possible. The franchise has grown quickly since the first location opened in 2008. Giggles is poised to open six new franchises in the next year. They believe that kids are incredible, and they serve the children first. The fact that parents get to enjoy their free time and know that their kids are in good hands is a valuable second priority.

For more information about the Giggles grand opening in Ballantyne Village, Charlotte North Carolina, visit https://gigglesdaycareinc.com.

Anyone who is interested in franchise opportunities can visit https://gigglesfranchiseinc.com/ to learn more.

Media Contact
Zach Richards
Giggles Drop-In Childcare
Email: sales@gigglesdaycareinc.com
Phone: 910-547-8353

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1215s2p-giggles-childcare-300dpi.jpg

Although many parents enroll their children in traditional daycare facilities and schools, there is a large gap when it comes to finding part-time childcare for working parents, stay-at-home moms, and after hours. Giggles Drop-In Daycare addresses those needs and is excited to announce the opening of their Charlotte location in the Ballantyne neighborhood on December 29, 2019.

Related link: https://gigglesfranchiseinc.com/

The Whole Child Receives Bezos Day 1 Families Fund Grant to Help End Homelessness in Los Angeles County

WHITTIER, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Whole Child, a lead housing agency for families experiencing homelessness in Southeast Los Angeles County, announced that it has been selected to receive a $5 million grant from the Bezos Day One Families Fund.

"We are honored to be one of the recipients of this year's Bezos Day 1 Families Fund grant," says Constanza Pachon, CEO of The Whole Child. "This grant comes at a critical point in the fight against homelessness in Los Angeles County. It will enable us to serve many more families with children experiencing homelessness."

This one-time grant, awarded to organizations moving the needle on family homelessness, will allow The Whole Child to pilot various initiatives including employment and education/training services, longer term shallow subsidies to support housing retention for families and larger flex fund pools to remove barriers not usually contemplated on regular housing/rental assistance programs. It will also help build needed specialized shelter beds for families experiencing homelessness in the region.

The Whole Child is one of 32 nonprofits across the U.S. to receive the second annual Day 1 Families Fund grants see full list, as part of a broad investment to help solve family homelessness. The Day 1 Families Fund issued a total of $98.5 million in grants this year. The fund worked with an advisory board of homelessness advocates and experts who identified and invited organizations to submit grant proposals to support their efforts to address homelessness.

"With the help of The Whole Child, my family was able to find a place to call home after leaving a violent partner left us sleeping in motels," explains Melina Gomez, who was helped by The Whole Child Housing. "Having a safe home for me and my boys has provided the stability I needed to find a new job and pay off my student loan debt. For the first time this year, we will be hosting Thanksgiving at our place! The Whole Child helps so many families and children. I can't wait to see how much more they will be able to accomplish with this grant."

The Bezos Day One Fund was launched in 2018 with a commitment of $2 billion and a focus on two areas: funding existing nonprofits that help homeless families, and creating a network of new, nonprofit tier-one preschools in low-income communities. The Day 1 Families Fund issues annual leadership awards to organizations and civic groups doing compassionate, needle-moving work to provide shelter and hunger support to address the immediate needs of young families. The vision statement comes from the inspiring Mary's Place in Seattle: no child sleeps outside.

For more information, visit: https://www.bezosdayonefund.org/day1familiesfund

About The Whole Child

The Whole Child is a 62-year-old nonprofit organization providing mental health, family housing, parent enrichment and nutrition education services to some of the most vulnerable families in Los Angeles County. Our mission is to help families raise emotionally and physically healthy children and have a place to call home.

We provide our array of multidisciplinary services across 11 locations in Los Angeles County to more than 4,600 families annually and a total of more than 12,500 people, including 7,000 children. 86 percent of our clients are low- to extremely low-income families with a single female head of household who is raising two to three children.

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

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1121s2p-whole-child-bezos-300dpi.jpg

The Whole Child, a lead housing agency for families experiencing homelessness in Southeast Los Angeles County, announced that it has been selected to receive a $5 million grant from the Bezos Day One Families Fund.

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

Just Like Me: Natalie Gonchar’s Book Improves Diversity in Children’s Media

DALLAS, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- It is not a secret that young kids are very impressionable, and what they see on children's media will most likely make a big impact on how they will see and act out in the world, says author Natalie Gonchar. On October 24, Natalie's book, "Mr. Gringle's Magical Wheelchair" (ISBN: 978-1612543154), was released, and it is now on the shelves at Barnes & Noble stores across the U.S. Natalie, a high school student, wrote the book after noticing a lack of children's books featuring lead characters who have disabilities.

"When disabilities are portrayed in the media, storylines often focus on what a character can't do, instead of what they can do. I believe it's important to avoid those stereotypes and focus on realistic experiences, challenges, and victories instead," Gonchar said.

Unfortunately, the media has had a history of vastly under-representing minorities and people with disabilities. Until recently, very few books, television shows and movies featured characters who were not white, straight, and able-bodied. A study of award-winning children's books published from 1975 to 2009 revealed a disproportionately smaller percentage of children with disabilities and ethnic diversity compared to those shown in actual classroom numbers. Today the situation is a little better, but still, when people with disabilities are included in plotlines, they are often marginal characters-or, they are stigmatized with sad or dramatic stories.

Having a casual, reoccurring character, who also happens to have a disability, in children's media could help stop casual ableism found in kids and would mean so much to children with disabilities.

"We need more inclusionary books, where a character who has a disability is included, but the story is not about the disability," says Dr. Joan K. Blaska, a retired professor and author of "Using Children's Literature to Learn about Disabilities and Illness." Reading stories that include characters with mental or physical challenges, who are portrayed in a positive light, helps expand children's concepts of what is "normal," building empathy and acceptance.

"Mr. Gringle's Magical Wheelchair" has already won the Gold Mom's Choice Award, a national award honoring excellence in family friendly media, and is currently under review for the Schneider Family Book award by the American Library Association (ALA). It is a wonderful story about a girl who finds strength to stand up to bullies and protect her friends.

Natalie is donating proceeds from the book's sales to Big Dreams Children's Foundation (BDCF), a nonprofit organization that provides financial and emotional support for kids with disabilities around the world.

If you're shopping for children this holiday season, consider "Mr. Gringle's Magical Wheelchair," available at any Barnes & Noble. It's just one book, but it has the potential to impact many children-through its message, and its mission.

Learn more: https://www.nataliegonchar.com/

Buy online: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/mr-gringles-magical-wheelchair-natalie-gonchar/1130975328#/

Follow on social:

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

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

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.send2press.com/300dpi/19-0905s2p-mrg-magical-wheelchr-300dpi.jpg
*Photo caption: Cover, "Mr. Gringle's Magical Wheelchair" by author Natalie Gonchar.

It is not a secret that young kids are very impressionable, and what they see on children's media will most likely make a big impact on how they will see and act out in the world, says author Natalie Gonchar. On October 24, Natalie's book, "Mr. Gringle's Magical Wheelchair" (ISBN: 978-1612543154), was released, and it is now on the shelves at Barnes & Noble stores across the U.S.

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

Independent Research Proves Kids Read Now Reading Program Eliminates Summer Slide

DAYTON, Ohio /ScoopCloud/ -- According to an independent study of the program's efficacy, Kids Read Now (KRN), a leading K-3 reading program designed to combat summer slide, completely negates summer reading losses for low-income students when fully implemented.

The new study, led by Geoffrey D. Borman, Ph.D., of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, found that "when students and parents take advantage of the full complement of 9 books delivered by KRN, the results are...equivalent to approximately 2.5 months of learning, or nearly 28% of the learning that takes place over a typical school year."

"Results indicate that the impact of Kids Read Now can more than eradicate the entire two months of summer learning loss experienced by low-income students," said Borman.

"KRN is 98% as effective as summer school reading programs at a fraction of the cost, and can be fully reimbursable with title funds," said Leib Lurie, the CEO of Kids Read Now, "making it an economical and effective supplement to summer learning initiatives that is available to all students, augmenting targeted summer programs where significant RTI is required, and where transportation challenges impact those who cannot attend traditional summer programs."

In spring, students create a Wish List from educator-approved titles, receiving three books from their list at a Family Reading Event before summer break. Each time a book is read and reported, a new book is delivered to their home with a "discovery sheet" of questions to assist students with comprehension and encourage parental engagement. Reporting all nine books earns a certificate of completion, a reward, and a celebration in the fall.

To read the full report or attend a webinar on the Kids Read Now program, visit https://www.kidsreadnow.org/study.

About Kids Read Now

Kids Read Now (KRN) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization on a mission to help all students become proficient readers as they enter fourth grade. KRN's in-home summer reading program was pedagogically designed to prevent summer learning loss, which is responsible for 65% of the learning gap between economically disadvantaged students and their peers. The program has provided more than 800,000 books to 60,000 students in grades K-3 across the United States at no cost to the students or their families.

To learn more, visit https://kidsreadnow.org/.

VIDEO (Vimeo):
https://vimeo.com/229015373

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1017s2p-Kids-Read-Now-300dpi.jpg
*Photo caption: University of Wisconsin-Madison study finds that Kids Read Now decreases or eliminates summer reading loss.

According to an independent study of the program's efficacy, Kids Read Now (KRN), a leading K-3 reading program designed to combat summer slide, completely negates summer reading losses for low-income students when fully implemented.

Related link: https://kidsreadnow.org/

Single Mom Heals Grief and Conquers Homelessness through Entrepreneurship

AUSTIN, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- Pamela Barnett has not had it easy. While she describes her childhood as happy, her family was poor and there were periods of homelessness. Later on in life, she pre-maturely gave birth to twins, Parker and Abigail, who did not survive. However, it was these life events, and others, that served to provide strength rather than defeat.

Today, she is the mother of two and a successful entrepreneur who is the author of several children's books, the founder of a tumbling gym, a Christian teacher and minister and, most recently, an app developer. Her latest app - tryitfreeapp.com - is set to launch on November 1.

"After the death of my twins, I left a bad marriage with my daughter and started over," she says. "At the time, I only had a high school education and no real way to provide for my daughter. For me, entrepreneurship was the answer."

TryitFreeapp.com will roll out in Texas, but Barnett has plans to take it nationwide. Like the name says, it's free and leads users to businesses that have free offers that include anything from a free facial or banana pudding to a martial arts class or pre-k reading class.

"It's a great way for businesses to connect with consumers," Barnett says. "And, it's also a great way for consumers to try before they buy."

There are many small businesses that don't have a big marketing budget and this app will offer visibility to tens of thousands of users at a glance. Barnett says the goal is to get 100,000 users on board in Austin and surrounding areas.

Business owners can apply to be included in this initial launch for free and links can be found for pre-orders for androids and iPhones here: http://www.tryitfreeapp.com/.

This app is affordable, targeted and highly effective marketing right in the hand of the consumer. Driving new customers is as easy as a few swipes on a phone.

About Pamela Barnett:

Barnett has two children - a 17-year old daughter, Katelynn, who attends the University of Mary Hardin Baylor and is on the acrobatics team; and her son, Jaxen, who is thriving in one of her private schools advancing three grade levels above his age in math. This is her second app - the first is an effective learning to read app - LearningtoReadwithAbbyGrace. Average just isn't in her vocabulary. She teaches her children and students, "Learn to multiply what you've been given."

Follow and learn more about Pamela Barnett at: http://www.abbygracebooks.com/

MEDIA CONTACT:
Pamela Barnett
of TryifFreeApp.com
+1-512-635-5661
Tryitfreeapp@yahoo.com

Pamela Barnett has not had it easy. While she describes her childhood as happy, her family was poor and there were periods of homelessness. Later on in life, she pre-maturely gave birth to twins, Parker and Abigail, who did not survive. However, it was these life events, and others, that served to provide strength rather than defeat.

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

First 20-degree Baby Sleeping Bags Hit Store Shelves in REI Exclusive

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. /ScoopCloud/ -- Morrison Outdoors, just 7 months removed from their launch campaign on Kickstarter, have brought their line of Little Mo Baby Sleeping Bags to over 60 REI locations across the U.S.

Available in 20-degree (F) and 40-degree (F) temperature ratings, the Little Mo Baby Sleeping Bags are designed to comfortably fit infants from 6 months up to 24 months old. Having no hood or drawstrings, these sleeping bags meet all AAP Guidelines for SAFE Infant Sleep, and both models weigh less than 1 pound each for use in backpacking.

Tavis Malcolm, founder of Morrison Outdoors, explains: "It made no sense to me that we should be sleeping in cozy down sleeping bags when we went camping while our baby was wrapped up in layers of clothes and blankets. We wanted to make something for our baby to sleep in that was warm, comfortable, and safe to use. Now we hope our Baby Sleeping Bags can help parents have at least one less thing to worry about."

For full details and in-store locations, check out the Little Mo 20 and Little Mo 40, both at https://www.rei.com/b/morrison-outdoors.

About Morrison Outdoors:

Morrison Outdoors was born from a desire to make camping with a baby just a little bit easier. Their patent-pending Little Mo Baby Sleeping Bag is the first 20-degree sleeping bag designed to meet all AAP Guidelines for SAFE Infant Sleep.

Tavis Malcolm, an Eagle Scout, designed their line of Baby Sleeping Bags with his wife, Amber Malcolm, a registered nurse with pediatric experience. Using techniques he learned online and a 1970s-era sewing machine that Amber had found being given away for free, Malcolm turned their unheated Denver-area garage into a makeshift sewing studio in order to develop their patent-pending design.

For more information, please visit Morrison Outdoor's website: https://www.morrisonoutdoors.com/.

*PHOTO link for media: Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1004s2p-little-mo-bags-300dpi.jpg
*Photo caption: Morrison Outdoors Little Mo 20 and 40.

*VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/Fd5u0PLKkk0

Morrison Outdoors, just 7 months removed from their launch campaign on Kickstarter, have brought their line of Little Mo Baby Sleeping Bags to over 60 REI locations across the U.S.

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

Early Learning Autism Therapy Center in Houston to Open in Friendswood

FRIENDSWOOD, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- Behavioral Innovations, a leading provider of center-based ABA therapy, today announced their newest center opening that will be located in Friendswood, Texas, a suburb of the Houston metro area. The growing need to provide access to early autism services is increasing as more children are being diagnosed with autism than ever before.

Behavioral Innovations, a leader in providing evidenced-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for children on the autism spectrum, will be opening their newest center in Friendswood, TX on Monday, September 30, 2019. This will mark Behavioral Innovations' 32nd center opening across Texas and Oklahoma, making them one of the largest providers of center-based ABA therapy in the region. Their centers focus on providing a fun, engaging play-based approach in helping every child reach their developmental goals.

Applied Behavior Analysis therapy is the most effective, early-intervention treatment for children with Autism. Behavioral Innovation's center-based model is designed to promote growth in children's skills across many facets of development including social interaction, skill acquisition, play skills, communication, and adaptive skills. Behavioral Innovations' state-of-the-art facilities offer a fun, welcoming environment where learning and social interaction occur more naturally.

The new therapy center will be led by Clinical Director, Drew Mercer. Mr. Mercer has over 10 years of healthcare experience working in various settings including center-based development, which makes him a great fit to help kick start the new center.

"We are very excited to open our doors to the Friendswood community and serve as a great resource for those families dealing with a child with autism," said Mr. Mercer. "The surrounding community has already welcomed us openly and we look forward to partnering with other healthcare providers in the area as we all work together."

About Behavioral Innovations:

Behavioral Innovations started almost 20 years ago when founders Lori Russo, Carla Edwards and Billy Edwards, armed with their master's as Behavioral Analysts, saw a lack of services available to help children diagnosed with autism. They opened the first autism therapy ABA center in Dallas, Texas in 2003 and continued to expand. Behavioral Innovations now serves close to 400 clients across Texas and Oklahoma. As a result, their growing team includes passionate and dedicated personnel such as admissions, insurance, billing, operations and most importantly, a highly skilled clinical staff.

The new Friendswood center is enrolling clients now. The center will be located at 105 East Shadowbend in Friendswood, Texas.

For more information, or to connect with the Friendswood therapy center, please call (855) 782-7822 or visit https://behavioral-innovations.com/.

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1002s2p-behavinnova-300dpi.jpg

Behavioral Innovations, a leading provider of center-based ABA therapy, today announced their newest center opening that will be located in Friendswood, Texas, a suburb of the Houston metro area. The growing need to provide access to early autism services is increasing as more children are being diagnosed with autism than ever before.

Related link: https://behavioral-innovations.com/

The Whole Child Celebrates Grand Opening of their Safe Families Transitional Housing in Echo Park

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Melina fled her home to escape domestic violence to protect herself and her children. They had nowhere to go so they turned to The Whole Child.

"I left not one but two abusive homes, first to get away from a violent spouse then a threatening situation while staying with a family member; and my children and I found ourselves homeless," explained Melina, The Whole Child Family Housing client. "Things felt hopeless."

The Whole Child's Safe Families Interim Housing Program located in Echo Park marks the nonprofit organization's entry into the field of housing development and will provide 44 units/102 new beds into Los Angeles County's Coordinate Entry System (CES) for Families experiencing homelessness.

Families will receive an array of interdisciplinary services designed to provide a strong start on their journey back to permanent housing, including the agencies own mental health, parent enrichment and nutrition education services. The welcoming grounds provides a safe place for children and their families to heal and find stability needed to be successful long term.

"Today we celebrate a win for Los Angeles County," pronounces Supervisor Hilda Solis at the Safe Families grand opening. "It is our priority to make sure that children are kept safe from the harshness of sleeping in cars and motels," she continued.

The Whole Child welcomed their first families into residence at the Safe Families Interim Housing Program the first week in September.

"Eighty percent of children experiencing homelessness will become homeless adults," explains Constanza Pachon, CEO of The Whole Child. "This facility will reduce trauma in children experiencing homelessness and will help break the cycle of generational homelessness in Los Angeles," Pachon added.

Over 8,000 children under eighteen are currently experiencing homelessness in Los Angeles County. More interim and affordable housing are needed to combat this epidemic.

"To the families staying at Safe Families 'Welcome home'," announces City of Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, "and to The Whole Child, thank you for providing a safe place of love and light for families experiencing homelessness."

Last year The Whole Child served nearly 2,000 families experiencing, or at risk of homelessness through Prevention and Rapid Resolution, Crisis Placement, Rapid Rehousing and Permanent Supportive Housing, as well financial acumen, employment and many other supportive services. With the help of The Whole Child, lead agency for the family population in the CES for the Southeast region of Los Angeles County, the number of families experiencing homelessness decreased by 42.6%* from 2018 to 2019 in the region they lead.

"I am working full-time now and have been living in an apartment with my two boys for two years now," shares Melina. "I recently paid off my student loans, and I am debt free! I look forward to an exciting future watching my boys grow up in a peaceful house. Thank you to The Whole Child for being with me every step of this journey home," she added.

The Whole Child would like to thank Supervisor Hilda Solis and the Los Angeles Housing Services Authority (LAHSA) for providing the funding to bring this program to life and ensure its success.

We thank the City of Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, Councilmember Mitch O'Farrell, Gateways Hospital, and the community of Echo Park for the warm welcome. We were honored to have LA Channel 11 news anchor Christine Devine as our emcee at our grand opening celebration. To our staff who worked tirelessly to ensure the facility was ready and welcoming to our clients over the last two months, thank you for your hard work and dedication to ending homelessness in our community.
ABOUT THE WHOLE CHILD

The Whole Child is a 62-year-old non-profit organization providing mental health, family housing, parent enrichment and nutrition education services to some of the most vulnerable families in Los Angeles County. Our mission is to help families raise emotionally and physically healthy children and have a place to call home. To find out more, please visit us at http://www.thewholechild.org.

Follow us @thewholechildca

Media Contact:
Micki Charley
Communications & Community Engagement Manager
mcharley@thewholechild.org
(562) 692-0383 x265

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/1fjjzJvWj6Y

Melina fled her home to escape domestic violence to protect herself and her children. They had nowhere to go so they turned to The Whole Child. The non-profit welcomed their first families into residence at the Safe Families Interim Housing Program the first week in September.

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

USDTL Test Helps Identify Newborns Exposed to Fentanyl Abuse

DES PLAINES, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Over the last few decades, United States Drug Testing Laboratories, Inc. (USDTL), has been quietly making a huge impact on the lives of some of the most vulnerable Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) patients, newborns exposed to substances of abuse during gestation. Today USDTL announced that they are the first laboratory in the world to commercially offer newborn fentanyl testing in both meconium and umbilical cord tissue specimens.

Fentanyl, defined by the Center of Disease Control (cdc.org), is a synthetic opioid that is extremely addictive. Like other opioids, abuse during pregnancy can cause newborns to go into dangerous withdrawal known as Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) and/or have other devastating physical abnormalities. Fentanyl is a powerful, inexpensive drug that is being cut into illicit substances and its presence is increasing throughout the country.

"Traditionally, fentanyl was mainly accessible via prescribed patches and intravenously, so testing for it was generally reserved for people that had specific access to it. Now, the distribution of fentantyl is booming through illicit drug trade communities in volumes that are difficult to estimate. Unfortunately, testing for fentanyl as part of a detection or exposure protocol is becoming the new normal. We are grateful to be able to develop and offer these tests to answer the call of so many hospital partners that are trying to get on top of this epidemic," said Joseph Jones, Chief Operating Officer at USDTL.

Meconium and umbilical cord tissue are both considered advanced long-term drug testing specimens because both start capturing substances in the newborn's system up to approximately 20-weeks before birth. For comparison, newborn urine drug testing has a typical lookback window up to approximately 2-3 days before birth. This longer window of detection from advanced specimens makes it possible to get a better picture of what is going on with the newborn.

"Adapting our tactics -from a population health standpoint- and being able to test for more prevalently abused drugs in the industry is crucial. The landscape continues to change and as a community we have to be prepared to keep up with the trends," said Douglas Lewis, President and Founder of USDTL.

About USDTL

USDTL, is a leader in newborn toxicology, alcohol biomarkers, and substances of abuse testing. They specialize in niche areas of forensic drug and alcohol testing by offering the most comprehensive testing panels on the market. They have decades of cutting-edge innovations that have been adopted and serve the population health needs of hospitals, legal organizations, and more. Learn more: http://www.usdtl.com/

Media Contact:
Michelle Lach, Director of Communications
marketing@usdtl.com

Related Links:

Blog Article: Detecting Fentanyl Using Newborn Drug Testing - http://www.usdtl.com/blog/the-detection-of-fentanyl-using-advanced-newborn-drug-testing

Visit the Meconium Testing Panels - http://www.usdtl.com/testing/meconium-drug-test-labs

Visit the Umbilical Cord Tissue Testing Panels - http://www.usdtl.com/testing/umbilical-cord-tissue-drug-test-labs

CDC Link: https://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/opioids/fentanyl.html

*VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/uTba6L5NmTw

Over the last few decades, United States Drug Testing Laboratories, Inc. (USDTL), has been quietly making a huge impact on the lives of some of the most vulnerable Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) patients, newborns exposed to substances of abuse during gestation. Today USDTL announced that they are the first laboratory in the world to commercially offer newborn fentanyl testing in both meconium and umbilical cord tissue specimens.

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

New East Tennessee Non-Profit, Helping Mamas Knoxville, is Already Making an Impact on Families

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Helping Mamas Knoxville opened operations in December 2018 and has already distributed more than 5,000 essential items to children living in poverty in East Tennessee. Helping Mamas works by collecting baby items through donations from the community, corporations, and volunteers. Then they distribute these necessities through social workers and local partner organizations.

Currently 18 partners are working with Helping Mamas to help supply moms and families with items such as diapers, wipes, pacifiers, bottles, formula, and a wide range of other items. Helen Ross McNabb, Catholic Charities of East Tennessee, Hope Resource Center, Regional Perinatal Program at The University of Tennessee Medical Center, and Knox County Head Start are a few examples of the organizations we serve. A full list of our partners is available at https://helpingmamas.org/knoxville/.

Helping Mamas Knoxville shares the same mission, vision and model as Helping Mamas Atlanta. Over the last four years Helping Mamas Atlanta has grown to be the baby supply bank of Georgia. They have served over 45,000 children and distributed over one million essential items. After watching the tremendous impact this organization has been making in the community, Tess Hutchison Frear, a relative of the Founder of Helping Mamas, felt it was her calling to make an impact here.

"Local agencies have embraced the opportunity to partner with us because they need help serving these families. East Tennessee had no coordinated efforts to get baby supplies into the hands of moms who need them most. I am hopeful our community will support the growing demand we have for donations, storage, drop-off locations, and volunteers," says Tess Frear, Executive Director of Helping Mamas Knoxville.

Three out of five parents must choose between food or diapers for their children. Public assistance programs do not allow the purchase of critical baby items such as diapers and wipes. Helping Mamas Knoxville has an ongoing need for diapers, wipes, and other necessities. Pack n' plays and car seats are in critical demand since these are more expensive purchases and must be new to meet safety guidelines.

To learn how you can help support Helping Mamas, please visit https://www.helpingmamas.org/knoxville or follow Helping Mamas Knoxville on Facebook.

Media Contact:
Tess Frear
865-250-7175
Tess@HelpingMamas.org

Helping Mamas Knoxville opened operations in December 2018 and has already distributed more than 5,000 essential items to children living in poverty in East Tennessee. Helping Mamas works by collecting baby items through donations from the community, corporations, and volunteers.

Related link: https://www.helpingmamas.org/knoxville

HER NEXT PLAY Announces Sports Summit for Teen Girls

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Fresh off a competitive community contest win, a team of young Edina women are investing their prize earnings in an event designed for teen girl athletes. The Her Next Play Edina Girls' Sports Summit will take place September 30, 2019 at Life Time Sport in Eagan, Minn.

More than 140 Edina middle school girls are registered for the summit featuring presentations by high profile professional and Olympic athletes; sports psychologists, broadcasters, influencers and more. Agility training, soccer and yoga are also part of the day's line-up that runs 8:45 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Registration remains open: https://ecfoundation.formstack.com/forms/her_next_play

Her Next Play JV Team Leadership

Her Next Play, a Minneapolis-based non-profit, is dedicated to empowering female athletes to confidently launch successful careers. Recognizing the power of the teen girl voice, the executive team installed a Junior Varsity board of 9 middle and high school girls to help support the organization's mission. The Junior Varsity teen board adopted a #PlayBold attitude, pitched and won the Edina Community Foundation "Bold New Idea" contest to help fund the summit. In the future, Her Next Play intends to scale and replicate the sports summit for an all-city, all-girl event.

"It's been inspiring to see the Junior Varsity board members take the lead on this summit and create an event that will motivate girls to lead in sports and life," says Sara Wegmann, Her Next Play president and founder. "Our organization believes an early investment in young female athletes across all backgrounds and abilities will help build the pipeline of future women leaders."

Edina Girls' Sports Summit Line-Up
Throughout the day, participants will hear directly from athletic and academic all-stars including:

Lee Stecklein, USA Olympic Hockey Player
Olympic Gold Medal winner as part of the United States women's national hockey team and part of the 2019 Isobel Cup champions for the Minnesota Whitecaps.

Carrie Tollefson, Olympic Runner
Elite middle distance runner and Olympian; 5-time NCAA champion and 13-time Minnesota State track and field and cross country champion.

Erin Ayala, Sports Psychologist
Works with athletes to identify goals, enhance self-awareness and motivation to reach peak performance.

Cori Kennedy, Sports Broadcaster; Social Media Manager
Sports commentator for professional softball. Known for her viral softball tutorial videos with over 2 million views.

Ellie Smart, Professional Cliff Diver
Currently the youngest high diver representing the United States and, after medaling at the FINA World Cup in Abu Dhabi, recently became a permanent diver on the 2019 Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series.

Kyndra de St. Aubin, MN United FC Commentator
Television analyst for Minnesota United FC. Currently the only full time major league female color commentator.

Coley Ries, Professional Softball Player
Professional softball player for the Aussie Peppers of the National Professional Fastpitch League. 2017 DII National Player of the Year and National Champion.

Marissa Brandt, Olympic Hockey Player
Member of the 2018 South Korean National Olympic Ice Hockey Team, and International Ice Hockey Federation Women's World Champion.

About Her Next Play:

Her Next Play is an emerging Minneapolis non-profit organization empowering female athletes to launch successful careers. Playing sports builds powerful leadership skills and female athletes have enormous career potential. Research shows 52% of women leaders in C-suite positions played sports at the college level. Her Next Play launched in March 2019 to help female athletes translate their athletic skills and experiences into powerful careers. To date, Her Next Play leadership and volunteers have engaged 425 female athletes through outreach programs and special events, with plans to serve another 750 by Summer 2020.

Her Next Play also sponsors the nationally recognized SEE US movement, initiated by Her Next Play Varsity Board member, Court Place, to spread awareness about female athletes being underrepresented, sexualized, and judged based on appearance rather than ability. The organization offers camps and workshops at clubs and schools to engage, empower and inspire female athletes.

Her Next Play is possible with the support of Minnesota's sports-oriented communities. Minnesota has the highest percentage participation of girls in high school sports in America with a championship WNBA team (Lynx), and women's hockey team (Minnesota's Whitecaps) who won the Isobel Cup in their inaugural season and sold-out every home game. Minnesota leads the way in women's sports, and has an engaged and committed community of business, sports, and non-profit leaders who have come out to support Her Next Play.

At Her Next Play, we #playbold, and are part of the #boldnorth because it's all #forthenextgirl.

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

Media contact: pr@hernextplay.org

Fresh off a competitive community contest win, a team of young Edina women are investing their prize earnings in an event designed for teen girl athletes. The Her Next Play Edina Girls' Sports Summit will take place September 30, 2019 at Life Time Sport in Eagan, Minn.

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

‘Souvenirs of Suffering’ Book Launch in Sync with Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, September, 2019

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Author Dazhoni Green's book, "Souvenirs Of Suffering, A Child's Memoir Of Surviving Cancer" (ISBN: 978-1733293006; Prairie Stone Press) is published in timely conjunction with Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.

Through the eyes and voice of a child, Dazhoni recounts her battle with brain cancer, wrestling with the debilitating effects of its initial symptoms, the diagnosis and ensuing treatment. These experiences, doubts and fears, were a prelude to a lengthy and arduous recovery.

"Souvenirs Of Suffering" is a candid account that will find the reader cheering Dazhoni on, sometimes with tears, at every obstacle on her way to become the compassionate, energetic young woman she is today. The champions in the story are friends, family members, teachers, hospital staff and camp counselors who patiently and lovingly supported her and other children struggling with debilitating diseases. These children are the real heroes, each and every one.

Having cancer as a child changed Ms. Green's view of life, something the reader will sense as she portrays each milestone along the way.

Published by Prairie Stone Press, this book is for middle readers and adults. "Souvenirs Of Suffering" is now available at all major booksellers.

Learn more at:
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1733293000
Google Books: https://books.google.com/books/about/Souvenirs_of_Suffering.html?id=GA6MxwEACAAJ

Media Contact:
Jonathan Liles
Prairie Stone Press
JonathanLiles@publicist.com
612-249-8056

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-0917s2p-souvenirs-book-300dpi.jpg
*Photo caption: Book jacket, Author Dazhoni Green's book, "Souvenirs Of Suffering, A Child's Memoir Of Surviving Cancer."

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/3ZecJDTC24A

Author Dazhoni Green's book, "Souvenirs Of Suffering, A Child's Memoir Of Surviving Cancer" (ISBN: 978-1733293006; Prairie Stone Press) is published in timely conjunction with Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.

Local Pediatric Clinic Set to Inspire, Educate and Entertain Families During Their 6th Annual Family Festival in Houston

HOUSTON, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- Premier Pediatrics of Houston will host the 6th Annual Family Festival on Saturday, September 28, 2019 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at 411 Lantern Bend Dr., Suite 235, Houston, TX. This year's theme is, "Your Family, Your Community, Your Responsibility."

With over 500 children and families in attendance during the 2018 festival, Premier Pediatrics has established the event as a community tradition for patients and non-patients interested in learning about preventive healthcare practices and other tools for healthy living.

The festival will be comprised of over 30 informational and interactive booths, food and fun activities such as live entertainment, face painting, relay races for children and adults, dance, hula hoop and watermelon eating competitions, multiple games and hundreds of prizes and give-a-ways.

"We are excited to continue to serve the North Houston community and we welcome children and parents to join us at our annual event," said clinic owner and nurse practitioner, Dr. Tamecka Knight. "This is a great opportunity to learn about available community resources and introduce kids and families to ways to maintain a healthy and safe lifestyle. It is also a day to just have good 'ole family fun."

Festival attendees will have access to local community-based organizations who will provide invaluable information on various topics that affect children and their families which include, but are not limited to, health and wellness, safety, financial security and planning, and educational resources.

For more information contact Premier Pediatrics of Houston at 281-997-2112 or visit their website at http://www.premierpediatricshouston.com/.

About Premier Pediatrics:

Premier Pediatrics of Houston has served the North Houston community for over six years. Since opening its doors in 2013, the clinic has provided healthcare to over 7,500 children. With an emphasis on health promotion, disease prevention, and early intervention, the clinic plays an important role in advocating for the health and well-being of children.

Owned and operated by Dr. Tamecka Knight, a board-certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner with 16 years of experience, the clinic strives to meet the needs of every family by providing up-to-date, compassionate pediatric care in a comfortable and respectful environment. The office is committed to providing a wide array of services ranging from routine care such as well child exams and immunizations to minor emergency care, as well as offering in-office labs, and ear piercing.

Media Contact:
Michelle Jackson
Premier Pediatrics Media Liaison
t. (678) 548-2461
e. events@prsolutionsllc.org

Premier Pediatrics of Houston will host the 6th Annual Family Festival on Saturday, September 28, 2019 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at 411 Lantern Bend Dr., Suite 235, Houston, TX. This year's theme is, "Your Family, Your Community, Your Responsibility."

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

viv, Co. Releases an Application Predicting Baby’s Schedule of Development Milestones by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Supporting Baby-Care

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- viv, Co. (CEO: Kyo Ueda) announced today that they are moving forward with the "BabyLook" project of "visualizing baby's mind" by using baby's facial expression and body information is going to release BabyLook:ver2.0; the application of predicting baby's development.

In this version upgrade, this application analyzes a state of the development of each person's baby and provide the milestones which is the most suitable for each baby because the AI system predicts a future development process.

Therefore, parents and nannies can understand "what" and "when" the growth event occur and get suggestions of how their baby handle the events. Also, they can be freed from the anxiety caused by lack of knowledge and will be able to get "relief."

Implementation Method:
BabyLook uses an AI system for predicting individual babies' development. The AI system predicts individual baby's developments by collecting and analyzing the below information.

Aspects of Collecting Data Information:
1. Daily baby's development events
2. Daily baby-care activities
a. Changing diapers
b. Breastfeeding information
c. Bottle milk information
d. Bath information
e. Crying information
f. Feeding solid food information
3. Daily photos and video data.

The Whole Process:
1. The system defines around 150 milestones for babies up to 24 months of age.
2. The system suggests milestones that are more likely to occur at the moment.
3. Users choose a thing to apply from the milestones as the result.
4. The system suggests individual milestone schedule by analyzing the daily records and the performance of the milestones.

In the whole process 4, we cluster babies by discovering the correlation between the three types of collected data, "growth speed" and "growth individuality (growth events that different from other babies)." Each cluster is possible to prevent what and when the growth event will occur because the cluster analyzes which events occur. Also, the cluster has suggestions information of each growth event, so it is possible to give advice to the users.

Analysis Process of AI:
1. Timing of the growth event occurrence (growth speed)
2. The order of the events occurrence (growth speed)
3. Happen or not happen of the events (developmental personality)
4. Reflect the influence of the baby-care activities (developmental personality)
5. Implementation of the survey (developmental personality)
6. Frequency in occur of daily facial expression (developmental personality).

Application URL is here: http://babylook.mom/

About viv, Co.:
viv, Co. is performing "the visualizing baby's mind project" through an alliance with University of California Los Angeles, University of California Riverside, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Renmin University of China, Kobe University (Japan), Hong Kong Government, the Maekawa Foundation, and over 200 kindergartens, nursery schools and child institutions science 2016. In the project, we studied and discovered a correlation between the baby's facial expression and the developmental trends (differences of growth speed) by locating cameras in the kindergartens and child institutions. We presented the paper of this and applied for a U.S. patent about the AI logic in 2018.

Future Plans:
From 2020, BabyLook creates the platform of supporting childcare and provides not only a family but also the nursing organization and research institutions. Moreover, we collect big data and improve the quality of the solution by connecting nursing devices by using IoT. In the end, we are planning to develop an economic zone about borderless "childcare" covering the world with a Blockchain. viv, Co. is based in Los Angeles, Calif., USA. We intend to raise $1 million over the year.

Images for media:

PHOTO: https://drive.google.com/open?id=1AXkwccscyba6xUFBaKIRImZALfos_fw2

LOGO: https://drive.google.com/open?id=1VpaUX6ghIacUE5Yx0eIdX9XawX1fPEYf

viv, Co. (CEO: Kyo Ueda) announced today that they are moving forward with the "BabyLook" project of "visualizing baby's mind" by using baby's facial expression and body information is going to release BabyLook:ver2.0; the application of predicting baby's development.

Related link: http://babylook.mom/

When it to Comes Mental Health Support for Teens, Schools Need to do More Connecting with Their Students – Enter the FeelSpace App

FULLERTON, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- "Depression, isolation, bullying, anxiety, substance abuse, suicides, and school shootings are more prevalent today than ever before," said FeelSpace(TM) App creators, father and son co-founders, Aftab Jiwani and Amaan Jiwani, from FeelU, Inc.

"Most professionals and experts agree, early intervention makes all the difference in the world. FeelSpace App for students will provide a comfortable, private and easy to use tool, right in their hands," continued Amaan Jiwani, a high school senior.

We have dozens of crisis hotlines and support centers available as we continue to treat mental health in the realm of crisis management.

"Mental health support cannot just be crisis management; no wonder things keep getting worse," said Aftab Jiwani.

In today's highly public, social media viral video world, young people are very concerned about how they look and are perceived by their peers in and outside of school. The apprehension towards visiting a school psychologist's office, with the stigma and fear of public ridicule, is preventing opportunities for early intervention in many of the most prevalent mental health challenges faced by students today.

FeelSpace(TM) is an extremely simple to use mobile and web messaging app that will allow students to communicate with their school selected psychologists and counselors with some anonymity and privacy.

Schools of any type and size can be linked to the FeelSpace(TM), where the schools will psychologists and counselors can receive message and alerts as the student initiate conversations. Interested schools please visit https://Feelu.org/ or email us at partner@FeelSpace.org.

The company is looking for partners and advisors to bring FeelSpace(TM) to schools all around the world and make a difference in people's lives.

"FeelSpace(TM) - Be Heard ... Anonymously!"

Learn more about the FeelSpace App and FeelU,Inc. at: https://feelu.org/

"Depression, isolation, bullying, anxiety, substance abuse, suicides, and school shootings are more prevalent today than ever before," said FeelSpace App creators, father and son co-founders, Aftab Jiwani and Amaan Jiwani, from FeelU, Inc.

Related link: https://feelu.org/

New Book ‘School of Errors’ Exposes Unsustainable School Safety Industry Spending Spree

MADISON, Wis. /ScoopCloud/ -- "School of Errors - Rethinking School Safety in America" (ISBN: 978-1475837445), authored by David P. Perrodin, Ph.D., and published by Rowman & Littlefield, is being touted as "the most honest book ever written about the $3 billion school safety industrial complex."

Perrodin boldly addresses the ambiguity of school safety plans. What is a "good" school safety plan and what is a "good" school safety drill? He explains to readers that schools must attempt to interpret and apply these foggy expectations with little oversight and less accountability.

Perrodin warns that when the perceived value of unchecked spending is increased student safety, it's practically unthinkable to assign a price tag to peace of mind.

"Fortifications, though a common 'solution' to the problem, are just not working," Perrodin explains. "While parents and communities want to 'see' security, schools should focus more on safety research than on increased fortifications, which are often under-researched and easy to undermine."

The book showcases to readers how schools have allowed security vendors to become the experts. And, it's a cost that comes at a high price.

Perrodin pushes readers to consider rhetoric versus school safety reality, hoping that schools and communities will think past fortifications and hyper-realistic exercises to develop more holistic security programs. For example, the book suggests that increased funding for research on the Youth Code of Silence is needed. Why? Facts show that more than 75 percent of the time, at least one other person has prior knowledge that an attacker intends to bring harm to a school.

"School of Errors" also addresses how special needs students have been placed on the sidelines of safety. Perrodin provides a framework for all students to actively participate in keeping their schools safe.

James B. Sibley, Esq., special education attorney, Tollner Law Offices, says this book is, "A brave demonstration of speaking truth to power. 'School of Errors' rips the lid off the billion-dollar school safety industry. Using real-world examples of successful responses in desperate situations, Perrodin contrasts the expensive window dressings pitched to panicked parents, with the inexpensive and effective approaches proven to actually work. Read this book before you let your school waste another precious dollar on meaningless safety 'theater.'"

It's Perrodin's hope that all students will be safer if they are taught how to increase awareness of their environments (situational awareness) and are provided with better threat reporting systems.

About the Author:

David P. Perrodin, Ph.D., promotes a safety initiative of taking action before a disaster strikes. He's an author, researcher, professor, legal expert witness and host of The Safety Doc Podcast. Perrodin earned a doctor of philosophy degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis from the University of Wisconsin-Madison where he researched high stakes safety decisions in education, health care and military. He delivered two school safety presentations on Wisconsin Public Television and also wrote and directed a film about school safety with Pulitzer Prize winner David Obst.

Perrodin has a passion for helping schools and companies design and implement safety instruction and threat-reporting tools that are accessible to students with special needs.

For more information: http://safetyphd.com/.

Watch a YouTube video: https://youtu.be/numNZdBFhHM

"School of Errors - Rethinking School Safety in America" (ISBN: 978-1475837445), authored by David P. Perrodin, Ph.D., and published by Rowman & Littlefield, is being touted as "the most honest book ever written about the $3 billion school safety industrial complex."

Related link: http://safetyphd.com/

Galileo Reaches Record-Breaking Financial Assistance Goal

OAKLAND, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Galileo Learning, an award-winning summer day camp provider and leader in the K-8 education space, continues to prioritize making high-caliber programs accessible to underserved kids. This month, Galileo hit a milestone in this effort by awarding over 10,000 sessions of financial assistance in one summer.

The financial assistance program has been a staple in Galileo's business model since its founding in 2002. Over the last two decades, the program has represented a company commitment valued at over $10.25 million.

"When we created Galileo, we wanted to design a business model that enabled us to serve thousands of lower-income campers-without depending on foundations or fundraising-and we're proud to have done just that," says Glen Tripp, Galileo Founder and CEO. "Our pricing model charges full price to the majority of our customers, which allows us to offer a sliding fee system for those with fewer resources or who might be going through a crisis in their lives. This year, more than 15 percent of our campers received support. We believe all kids should have access to high-quality summer programming, and we're committed to nurturing this program in the years to come."

Each year, Galileo launches the application in February for the upcoming summer. To connect with deserving families across California and Illinois, Galileo's team works closely with local school districts and organizations. More information on the financial assistance program: https://galileo-camps.com/details/financial-assistance/

About Galileo:
Galileo operates 100+ summer camp programs throughout California and Illinois, where more than 35,000 kids and over 2,500 staff will invent, design, create and play in summer 2019. Galileo's mission is to develop innovators who envision and create a better world. Founded in 2002 by Glen Tripp, Galileo is a certified B Corp, was named one of Forbes' Best Small Companies, and is a Real Leaders' 2019 Top Impact Company. Learn more: https://galileo-camps.com/

Galileo Learning, an award-winning summer day camp provider and leader in the K-8 education space, continues to prioritize making high-caliber programs accessible to underserved kids. This month, Galileo hit a milestone in this effort by awarding over 10,000 sessions of financial assistance in one summer.

Related link: https://galileo-camps.com/

Student Solutions announces strategic partnership with SC Teachers, College Education Majors, and College Professor

SPARTANBURG, S.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Student Solutions, a team of teachers, college education majors, and a college professor, launch a Summer Literacy Camp. Directed by Limestone College professor Dr. Teresa White, the Summer Literacy Camp offers a solution to the "summer slide," the tendency for students to lose some of the reading achievement gains made during the school year, and the epidemic of teacher shortages through recruiting and retention.

The summer slide is the primary contributor to the reading achievement gap between lower and higher-income students. Unequal summer learning opportunities during the early developmental year's account for achievement differences among socioeconomic groups by the time students reach ninth grade (Alexander, Entwisle & Olsen 2007).

The program affords opportunities for three levels of educators to work in tandem to elevate excellence in education by learning from one another. According to data obtained by The State, 6,705 SC teachers quit their jobs during the 2016-2017 school year. By the 2027-2028 school year, South Carolina is projected to be short by about 6,000 teachers.

South Carolina is not alone in struggling to recruit and retain quality teachers. All 50 states started the school year short of teachers, many just in critical subject areas, according to a US Department of Education report.

"Many of my weaknesses were strengthened with the support of Dr. White and the Reader Leaders that I have this wonderful opportunity to work with," says Jerushah Falby, Early Childhood Education Major.

Serving children in K-5th grade, the Summer Literacy Camp takes place Saturdays throughout July and August in Spartanburg, S.C. Families enjoy a parent program presented at the end of each session by student scholars. The camp also aides in teacher preparation through paid internships and literacy leadership opportunities for educators. Local businesses and community stakeholders generously funded tuition scholarships.

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

Follow on social at:
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/teresateachersc
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/studentsolutionssc
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-teresa-white-99b02a33/

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/k3oK1LdbaHo

Student Solutions, a team of teachers, college education majors, and a college professor, launch a Summer Literacy Camp. Directed by Limestone College professor Dr. Teresa White, the Summer Literacy Camp offers a solution to the "summer slide," the tendency for students to lose some of the reading achievement gains made during the school year.

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

Electronic Nicotine Organization Leads Fight Against Youth Nicotine Usage and Obtains IRS Nonprofit Designation

DALLAS, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- The Electronic Nicotine Organization (ENO) - EnoughNic.org - is leading the social media fight against youth nicotine addiction and e-cigarette usage. It was recently granted Non-Profit status under Section 501(c)(3) by the Internal Revenue Service, making donations to it tax deductible.

"Obtaining 501(c)(3) status enables ENO to expand its donor base and provide a reach to millions of teenagers every day to stem the tide of youth e-cigarette usage," says Tom Popescu, ENO's President and founder.

"Electronic cigarette usage among those 25 and younger has skyrocketed by 900% in recent years due in part to sophisticated and subtle social media marketing tactics," said Popescu. "Nicotine is a very harmful substance that can endanger the adolescent brain along with their nervous system."

Popescu added, "With increased giving, ENO will be able to produce viral social media campaigns and create school educational programs to reverse the dramatic increase in addictive nicotine e-cigarettes. Our organization will reach over 10 million teenagers a day."

By creating powerful partnerships with strong social media influencers, amplified by social media, the Electronic Nicotine Organization is taking a decisive stand against youth nicotine use.

ENO was started in 2019 by Popescu who was looking for a purpose after being given a second chance at life. In 2015, he was diagnosed with an incurable cancer and was told his life expectancy was short. After being involved in an experimental clinical trial and 9 months of chemotherapy, Popescu's cancer went into remission. Popescu found his purpose on a business trip in California. As the trip progressed, Tom began to notice the countless anti-nicotine billboards across the city and looked around only to see he was surrounded by dozens of teenagers vaping with their eyes glued to their mobile phones.

At that moment, Tom realized why God had spared his life and that traditional media would be ineffective with this generation. Shortly after, ENO was founded to be the first organization to effectively use social media influencers to curb nicotine and e-cigarettes usage and inform people on the dangers nicotine has on our youth.

Visit our website to learn more and donate to eliminate youth nicotine use.

Tax deductible contributions may be made securely on the organization's website. ENO will also be seeking selective grants to fund its viral media campaigns, school programs and create a future without youth nicotine use.

For more information, visit: https://enoughnic.org/

Reach us at contact@enoughnic.org

Follow on social at:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnoughNicOrg
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/EnoughNic
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enoughnic/

The Electronic Nicotine Organization (ENO) - EnoughNic.org - is leading the social media fight against youth nicotine addiction and e-cigarette usage. It was recently granted Non-Profit status under Section 501(c)(3) by the Internal Revenue Service, making donations to it tax deductible.

Related link: https://enoughnic.org/

How to Keep Kids Safe from Mosquitoes and Ticks this Summer

HUNTINGDON VALLEY, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- In the midst of summer, kids need protection from disease-carrying mosquitoes and ticks. The experts at Giroud Tree and Lawn share a summertime checklist to keep kids safe from biting insects.

Making Kids Aware of Dangerous Insects

Teaching kids ways to prevent mosquito and tick bites will empower them to be mindful of their surroundings while out in nature. It's important to start mosquito and tick bite prevention habits early and reinforce them often. Parents can work together as a family to prepare for outside play and to check for mosquito bites and ticks once back home.

Summertime Checklist to Keep Kids Safe from Biting Insects
* Wear light and neutral colored clothing: Mosquitoes are attracted to things that mimic nature like the colors in flowers, foliage or animals. Dress kids in white, beige or khaki if they're heading out for an adventure.
* Go Natural: Avoid heavily scented shampoos and any products that contain fragrances
* Cover up: If kids are playing outside near water or woods, they should wear lightweight, long sleeves, long pants, and socks. Mosquitoes are most attracted to areas where the skin is thinner and the blood vessels are closer to the surface such as the ears, wrists, and ankles. Parents should teach kids to tuck their pants into their socks if they will be walking through high grasses or underbrush. This will prevent ticks from crawling up their legs.
* Use Repellents: Of course, DEET is the go-to chemical repellent. But there are natural alternatives. Often sold in health food stores, non-toxic, botanical repellents should be reapplied about every thirty minutes to remain effective. Repellents containing soybean oil protect for about ninety minutes-comparable to DEET. When mosquitoes start landing on the skink again, that's the signal to reapply repellent.
* Always Perform a Full Body Tick Check after Outside Play: Kids might be exhausted after playing outside all day in the hot summer sun, but it's vital to always check for ticks once they've arrived home.

Protect Kids by Protecting the Property

There is a lot homeowners can do to protect the property. It takes an all-out assault on the parts of the yard that attract mosquitoes and ticks as well as creating a pest repellent barrier.
* Treat the Hot Spots and Perimeter of the Yard: Some insect control companies have both Organic and Traditional Mosquito and Tick Control treatment plans. Most treatments kill the pests on contact and then repel for several weeks.
* Remove or Empty Objects that Collect Water: Mosquitoes need water for two stages of their life cycle. Keep rain gutters clear and unclogged. Remove old tires, buckets, plastic covers, or any other container. Empty and change the water in birdbaths, fountains, wading pools, rain barrels and potted plant trays at least once a week. Drain temporary pools of water or fill with dirt. "Consider purchasing a battery operated water motion machine or a water baffler machine for your pond," suggests Giroud Plant Health Care Manager, Rodney Stahl. "These water agitators will keep water in motion and deter mosquitoes from breeding"
* Prune or Remove Overgrown Vegetation: Mosquitoes are shade lovers. An ISA Certified Arborist can eliminate shady habitats in two ways. First, cleaning up and/or clearing overgrown areas. Second, pruning tree branches and shrubs around the lawn edge to let in more sunlight.
* Use yellow light bulbs in outdoor fixtures. They aren't as attractive to bugs.
* Plant mosquito-repelling plants. These include scented geraniums, lemon thyme, marigold, tansy, citrus plants, sweet basil and/or sassafras near the home.

About Giroud Tree and Lawn:

Giroud Tree and Lawn specializes in tree service, lawn care and mosquito and tick control programs that make customers love doing business with the company since 1974. Serving Bucks, Montgomery and Philadelphia Counties, the company offers professional tree and lawn evaluation, tree pruning, tree removal, insect and disease control, fertilizing, stump removal, traditional and 100% organic lawn programs and mosquito and tick control. Giroud Arborists are certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and have the knowledge and experience required to properly diagnose, treat and maintain trees and lawn health. The company is Accredited by the Tree Care Industry Association and Better Business Bureau. Giroud has also been awarded the Angie's List Super Service Award(r) every year since 2005. The "Giroud Treework for Charity" program donates free tree care services to parks, historical sites and other non-profit organizations located in the Company's service area.

For more information, visit the company website at http://www.giroudtree.com or call 215-682-7704.

In the midst of summer, kids need protection from disease-carrying mosquitoes and ticks. The experts at Giroud Tree and Lawn share a summertime checklist to keep kids safe from biting insects. Teaching kids ways to prevent mosquito and tick bites will empower them to be mindful of their surroundings while out in nature.

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