Tag Archives: General Editorial

The World’s Largest Drive-Through Animated Light Show Opens Three Shows in the Valley

PHOENIX, Ariz. /ScoopCloud/ -- World of Illumination, the producer of the world's largest drive-through animated light show, announced its lineup of new theme parks for the 2022 holiday season and headlining the list are three Arizona locations. World of Illumination is constructing its larger-than-life holiday light event in the parking area of Six Flags in Phoenix, Desert Diamond Casino in Glendale and Tempe Diablo Stadium.

Visitors to three shows will experience a different show at each location: The all-new Enchanted Safari debuts in Glendale, Rockin' Christmas comes to Phoenix and Candy Rush hits Tempe. Each show has unique elements never before seen and feature millions of colorful lights and hundreds of animated displays.

"World of Illumination is thrilled to be adding a third location to the Valley of the Sun," said CEO Yakir Urman. "As we expand into yet another venue, we also push the boundaries of what is technically and creatively possible to give our guests the most epic holiday experience imaginable."

The Tempe and Phoenix shows run from November 16, 2022 to January 1, 2023 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. nightly, while the Glendale theme park opens November 23. Visitors enjoy the dancing LED lights - customizable to up to 16 million shades of color - and the towering-high structures, fanciful tunnels and other surprises all from the comfort of their cars.

Pricing starts at $39.99 per vehicle, so guests can bring as many people as they like through the experience at one low rate. All reservations must be made in advance online.

For tickets and more information, visit:

Glendale, AZ: https://www.worldofillumination.com/glendale-arizona

Tempe, AZ: https://www.worldofillumination.com/tempe-arizona

Phoenix, AZ: https://www.worldofillumination.com/north-phoenix-arizona

About World of Illumination:

Based in Phoenix, Arizona, World of Illumination is the producer of the world's largest drive-through animated light show, featuring millions of state-of-the-art lights and displays set to music. The industry leader in executing holiday light shows, World of Illumination has partnered with major stadiums and iconic parks to bring shows to such states as Arizona, Georgia, Missouri and Utah. Connect at @worldofillumination.

Learn more about each of the company's holiday light shows: https://www.worldofillumination.com/

World of Illumination, the producer of the world's largest drive-through animated light show, announced its lineup of new theme parks for the 2022 holiday season and headlining the list are three Arizona locations. World of Illumination is constructing its larger-than-life holiday light event in the parking area of Six Flags in Phoenix, and Tempe Diablo Stadium.

Related link: https://worldofillumination.com/

Golden State Pops Orchestra presents the 2022 Holiday Pops Spectacular!

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Golden State Pops Orchestra rings in the holiday season with joyous music and high spirits on Saturday, December 17, 2022 at 8 p.m. in the Warner Grand Theatre in San Pedro, California. Celebrate the holiday season with Maestro Steven Allen Fox, Resident Choir Maestra Marya Basaraba, and the Golden State Pops Orchestra and Chorale, with the "Holiday Pops Spectacular." Experience this festive performance of timeless holiday film music, traditional favorites, special guests, and snow!

Recent contestant on NBC's "The Voice," Lana Love, will join the GSPO on stage to sing "Into the Unknown" from "Frozen 2," "All I Want for Christmas Is You," and "Christmas, Baby Please Come Home."

Tenor of the Americas, Maximo Marcuso, will also join the festivities to sing "When My Heart Finds Christmas," "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year," and a duet with Ms. Love, "The Prayer."

Rounding out the special guest soloists will be Internationally renowned flutist, Sara Andon, performing the solo from Williams Ross' arrangement of "Charlie Brown Christmas." In addition, the orchestra and choir will perform White Christmas, Sleigh Ride, selections from Mannheim Steamroller, music from the motion picture "Polar Express," and more.

Tickets start at just $33. Visit https://www.gspo.com/ or call 310-433-8774 for information and tickets.

About Golden State Pops Orchestra:

With a driving mission to create, develop and present innovative and fresh orchestral concerts, the Golden State Pops Orchestra (GSPO) is quickly becoming nationally known as a pioneer in providing quality film music with a second life on the concert stage, in productions that absorb audiences from beginning to end.

The orchestra performs a wide variety of musical repertoire, including classical, Broadway, pop music and even video game soundtracks. However, the primary focus of the GSPO remains film music, a specialty of the orchestra since its founding in 2002. The orchestra is composed of professional freelance musicians from around the Los Angeles area and operates under a Metropolitan Agreement with the American Federation of Musicians, Local 47.

One of GSPO's core values is the continuous advancement of our artistic capacity and production values, while maintaining a focus on high-quality performance. We work constantly to build even more relationships with composers and entertainment industry professionals, and to bring our unique brand of entertainment to world-renowned venues throughout Southern California.

https://www.gspo.com/ 310-433-8774

The Golden State Pops Orchestra rings in the holiday season with joyous music and high spirits on Saturday, December 17, 2022 at 8 p.m. in the Warner Grand Theatre in San Pedro, California. Celebrate the holiday season with Maestro Steven Allen Fox, Resident Choir Maestra Marya Basaraba, and the Golden State Pops Orchestra and Chorale, with the "Holiday Pops Spectacular."

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

‘My Spouse, My Friend’ – Educator and counselor writes from a faith perspective to give a crash course on marital relations

FORT SASKATCHEWAN, Alberta /ScoopCloud/ -- "My Spouse, My Friend" (ISBN: 978-0228842859) is a must-have book for couples, newlyweds, those long in love, and engaged. A crash course on married life by author Ingiete Oyama.

Released in April 2021, "My Spouse, My Friend" is a crash course on married life, from how to argue like an adult to making financial plans for the future, to how to get along with your in-laws. Written from a faith perspective with a biblical backing and real-life anecdotes, "My Spouse, My Friend" is a guide to navigating questions about marriage and finding answers.

Author Ingiete Oyama sets you in a front row seat as she highlights the necessity for spouses to treat each other as friends and not foes. The book centers on the blessings that abound in marriage when couples choose to love each other and put God at the helm of affairs in their lives. Best summed up as intentional or purposeful marriage.

"My intention for writing this book is to help couples reclaim their intimacies and unite in perfect matrimony. They should also realize God's intention in instituting marriage," said Oyama when reflecting on her book.

"I am convinced that the Lord God who put this idea in me would bless everyone with a very fulfilled marriage and God's blessings and protection. Hopefully this book succeeds in bringing back the fun in marriage, where couples can be themselves and are not afraid to laugh freely with each other. Reinstates friendship, abundant love, and understanding between all couples. Where the lightheartedness of friendship and love exist and where man and woman work toward common goals of unity, happiness, and love."

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

INGIETE OYAMA is an accomplished, married and well-educated woman, whose passions lean heavily toward helping others. She has a master's degree in counseling, child and adolescent welfare, occupational health, rehabilitation and return to work, as well as other credits in addiction and behavior management. She is a mother of five, an educator and counselor.

To learn more about author Ingiete Oyama's writing debut and "My Spouse, My Friend," please visit https://ingieteoyamaauthor.com/.

"My Spouse, My Friend" is now out through Tellwell Publishing (RRP $23) and available through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Indigo and more.

BOOK SUMMARY:

Author: Ingiete Oyama

Genre: Self-Help

Released: April 2021

PAPERBACK: ISBN-13: 9780228842859

HARDCOVER: ISBN-13: 9780228842866

EBOOK: ISBN-13: 9780228842873

AUDIOBOOK: ISBN-13: 9780228848875

Publisher: Tellwell Talent ( https://tellwell.ca/ ).

"My Spouse, My Friend" (ISBN: 978-0228842859) is a must-have book for couples, newlyweds, those long in love, and engaged. A crash course on married life by author Ingiete Oyama, the book is a guide to navigating questions about marriage and finding answers.

Related link: https://ingieteoyamaauthor.com/

New book celebrates the magic of adoption and diversity through creative storytelling

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Adam Swain Ferguson, founder, Purple Fox Entertainment, is a creative producer and author. His new book release, "Love Without Wings: An Adoption Fairytale" (ISBN: 979-8986768014), was inspired by a true story - his own story - and celebrates diverse families made complete through adoption. It's scheduled to be released during National Adoption Month (November) on November 19, National Adoption Day and is available for pre-order on the Purple Fox Entertainment website here: https://purplefoxentertainment.com/product/love-without-wings/

While "Love Without Wings" is written for children, it's also the perfect read for adoption agency staff, counselors and teachers in search of a positive educational tool.

After two years of waiting and wishing, the author and his husband had nearly given up hope on adopting. But then it happened. They received a call that would change their lives forever. The woman who would be their son's biological mother had chosen them to adopt her baby boy.

From the day their son, Taran, was born Ferguson had made up a fairytale-style bedtime story that told a magical tale of how their family came to be. He soon realized that this story had the potential to move beyond the nursery walls. So, he set to work.

The book's storyline centers around two kings who embark on a magical quest to become fathers; they have a shooting star as their guide. At the end of a sparkling trail, their greatest wish is finally fulfilled after a miraculous encounter with a fairy. Coincidentally, she'd been wishing on that same star, but her wish was to find the perfect family for the very special baby growing in her belly.

"As an adoptive dad, I wrote 'Love Without Wings' with hope that it will encourage children to feel pride in the magic that they bring to their families' lives," Ferguson says.

Since becoming a father, Ferguson says he's had difficulty finding books that approach adoption from the creative storytelling side of things. He found most to focus on the mechanics and process. And, he's not alone. To date, many have had the opportunity to preview the book and agree that it takes a refreshing look at adoption.

Amanda K., a director at LifeLong Adoption says, "As an adoptive parent coordinator who works alongside waiting adoptive parents, I appreciate that this book provides hope and light during a journey that can be difficult. The way this story is full of meaning and love is perfectly done."

Geraldine O., Ph.D., a child psychologist shares that the book is "a beautiful and thoughtfully written fairy tale about adoption from the unique perspective of love from the child's biological and adoptive parents."

She says that this is not often depicted in children's picture books and believes that this book will make a wonderful addition to a child's library as well as serving as a much-needed therapeutic tool for child psychologists.

Adoptees are singing its praises too. After reading "Love Without Wings," Mike P. says that he never had the opportunity to read a children's story that reflected his family.

"It's wonderful to see it happening in 'Love Without Wings,' he says. "As an adopted kid, being wanted is a key ingredient to feeling loved, and this book really sends that message."

Veronica Stanley Hooper, the book's illustrator, has created beautiful images with many details for an eager child to discover as their parents read this feel-good story about unconditional love, wishes and dreams come true.

"This unique story shares the elements of adopting a child through a heart-warming storyline," Hooper says. "And, while this tale is perfect for any family wanting to explain adoption to their children, it stands on its own as a classic fairytale too."

Watch the book trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NCNy7-c6O9Q

For more information: https://purplefoxentertainment.com/

Pre-order here: https://purplefoxentertainment.com/product/love-without-wings/ or on Amazon: https://a.co/d/aHJeoXm

About the Author:

Adam Swain Ferguson discovered his calling for film and video production after moving to California in 2017, where he pursued a Bachelor's degree in Entertainment Business, and a Master's in Producing for Television. Now, he's channeling both his professional entertainment experience and innate talent as a storyteller, to produce children's content inspired by his own personal experiences with family growth; including adoption and IVF.

He hopes to continue on this path and to build additional storylines to represent his commitment to diversity by creating a series of book adaptations. He wants children to see themselves through his stories which will eventually showcase a host of different family dynamics and structures.

Currently, Ferguson lives in the greater Los Angeles area with his husband and their son.

Adam Swain Ferguson, founder, Purple Fox Entertainment, is a creative producer and author. His new book release, "Love Without Wings: An Adoption Fairytale" (ISBN: 979-8986768014), was inspired by a true story - his own story - and celebrates diverse families made complete through adoption. It's scheduled to be released during National Adoption Month on November 19, National Adoption Day.

Related link: https://purplefoxentertainment.com/

A new book illuminating the real life impacts of depression and anxiety through an evocative fictional narrative

VANCOUVER, B.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Author Paul G. Swingle's new novel "Silhouette" (ISBN: 979-8545559596; released Aug., 2022) delivers a brilliant and deceptively simple story, giving us insight into the hearts of two lonely souls. They gaze at each other from a distance, dreaming of forming a bond. Will their fears, depression, and anxiety prevent them from connecting?

On the night of a blue moon, while walking his dog, middle-aged widower Jim sees Gladys on the roof of a neighboring apartment building and is inspired to speak with her. There's just one problem: she can't hear him.

Indeed, Jim isn't even sure that Gladys truly exists-that she isn't just a rooftop patio umbrella silhouetted against the moon. Hampered by debilitating social anxiety, he cannot work up the courage to even wave.

Yet Jim returns to the same spot night after night, and Gladys - who is indeed real - sees him and becomes equally interested. She even contributes to their "conversation," though he cannot hear her either. And while Gladys struggles with her own demons - self-loathing and depression - she is lifted by Jim's attention, even as she describes how difficult her life has been.

Two characters, driven by sadness and a longing to connect. Will they?

About the Author:

Dr. Paul G. Swingle can be considered one of the founding fathers of Clinical Psychoneurophysiology, one of a select few, directly responsible for bringing Neurotherapy out of university labs and clinics to the general populace in the 1980's. His numerous publications including nine books and numerous peer reviewed journal publications.

"Silhouette" is now out independently published and promoted by Tellwell Talent (RRP $7.89) and available through Amazon, Chapters Indigo, and more.

Amazon.com: Silhouette: 9798451441466: Swingle, Paul G.: Books - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09C2X6SRY

BOOK SUMMARY:

Author: Paul G. Swingle

Genre: FICTION

Released: August 2022

PAPERBACK: ISBN-13: 979-8545559596

KINDLE ASIN: B09C2X6SRY

Publisher: Independent

Author Paul G. Swingle's new novel "Silhouette" (ISBN: 979-8545559596; released Aug., 2022) delivers a brilliant and deceptively simple story, giving us insight into the hearts of two lonely souls. They gaze at each other from a distance, dreaming of forming a bond. Will their fears, depression, and anxiety prevent them from connecting?

Grief Opens Path to Reconnection, Resilience in New Online Retreat Nov. 5-6

WEAVERVILLE, N.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Grief, like the seasons, is part of the normal cycle of life, yet each person experiences it differently. Join grief guides Melody LeBaron and Dean Spillane-Walker for "Heart Broken Open: Grief as a Sacred Path to Reconnection and Resilience," a new online retreat for the bereaved, on Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 5-6, 2022. The event is presented by: Transforming Space, Self, and Loss; and by Living Resilience.

The event is designed to transform the experience of grief for those experiencing any significant loss. These include those experiencing:

* the loss of a relationship, family member, pet, home or job

* struggles with trauma, a diagnosis, or an illness

* grief for the devastation of the planet and its peoples

* difficulty coping with stuckness, sadness, or loneliness

Learn more: https://livingresilience.net/griefretreat/

Caregivers such as family members, therapists, coaches, health and wellness practitioners may also benefit from the ritual practices of grief within a community setting.

"Our ancestors accepted grief as a normal part of life," says LeBaron. "They knew that grief buried alive kills the mind, the body, the soul."

LeBaron is the author of "Transforming Death: Creating Sacred Space for the Dying" (ISBN: 978-1733477123) a guide for the dying and their caregivers, based on her experience as a midwife for the deaths of 12 of her closest loved ones including her 17-year old son, mother, and sister.

"So, when one person grieved, the tribe gathered and formed 'a community of mourners,'" she says. "In other words, when a loss happened to one member of the tribe, it was processed and grieved-by the entire tribe."

Walker says that within a community, grief can be transformed. "Grief is feral," he says. "It does not come on demand. But grief can be evoked-through stories, writing, movement, and ritual."

Walker is author of "The Impossible Conversation: Choosing Reconnection and Resilience at the End of Business as Usual" (ISBN: 978-0692900017). He helps create consciousness within communities in ways that encourage the maturation of deep inner resources, as its members bravely face an unimaginable future.

"Grief can be welcomed, integrated, and transformed within the sacred space formed by an intentional community," Walker says.

But, they say, some losses can't be managed alone. People may need a community of grievers in order to complete the grief cycle.

"When grief is fully processed and integrated, it transforms into a life-force, a fuel that revitalizes and propels us into reconnection and resilience, as individuals, families, and communities," says Walker.

But when grief is ignored, tamped down, buried alive, vitality may be buried with it.

"We live in a time when we are experiencing devastating personal-and planetary-loss. It is no longer advisable to grieve privately, to force ourselves to 'get over it,'" says LeBaron.

Now is the time for a conscious, courageous community grieving. The retreat will include:

* Powerful writing practice to assist in opening our stories of loss

* Deepening our trust in our emotional and body wisdom

* Sharing our stories of loss in a confidential container, to the extent you want that

* An avenue to express our grief over world events

* Learning practices and healing tools to use after the retreat

* Music and Movement that allow us to embody and then release emotions

To learn more about "Heart Broken Open: Grief as a Sacred Path to Reconnection and Resilience," or to sign up to attend on Saturday, Nov. 5, from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., and on Sunday, Nov. 6, from noon to 5 p.m., visit: https://livingresilience.net/griefretreat/.

Grief, like the seasons, is part of the normal cycle of life, yet each person experiences it differently. Join grief guides Melody LeBaron and Dean Spillane-Walker for "Heart Broken Open: Grief as a Sacred Path to Reconnection and Resilience," a new online retreat for the bereaved, on Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 5-6, 2022. The event is presented by: Transforming Space, Self, and Loss; and by Living Resilience.

Related link: https://livingresilience.net/

The Zonli Battery Operated Heated Blanket is a new way to keep warm on the go

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Looking for a cozy way to stay warm this winter? Say Goodbye to Old, Chunky, Inconvenient traditional heated blanket, say hi to Zonli's battery powered heated blanket! perfect for snuggling up on the couch or staying toasty in bed. So why not treat yourself (or someone you love) to a little luxury this winter? With Zonli home's heated blanket, you can enjoy the warmth without worrying about cords or batteries.

From now until the end of November, get 10% off all heated blankets（code: winter10)- To take advantage of this offer, visit our website or contact our customer service team today.

What Sets Us Apart?

* Touch-Button Control

* Connect the power bank to USB plug

* 5 Hours of Heating Times

* 2 Minutes of Fast Heating

* Waterproof, Indoor and Outdoor use

* Lightweight, warmth, versatility

5V Powerbank Technology:

What sets Zonli battery-operated heated blanket apart from other heater brands is the unique 5V powerbank technology used Patented signal technology allows any 5V battery to be used with specific garments. This allows for unlimited battery options and gives you more options!

Revolutionary Garments Feature:

Zonli's battery-powered heated clothing uses innovative technology to heat the core body temperature. These revolutionary garments feature integrated heating panels and are made from special fabric for lightweight warmth, comfort and versatility. We also use heat reflective technology to provide hours of warmth and comfort.

Transforms Your Outdoor Experience:

Zonli's battery-powered warming blanket transforms any outdoor concert, tailgate or backcountry camp into your own personal base camp. Everything from the waterproof utility layer to the ultra-soft, insulated interior has been carefully engineered to create a unique, all-terrain, ultra-comfortable blanket that even your dog will love.

Years Of Experience:

Zonli Battery Heated Gear was developed by some of the brightest minds in the industry. With years of experience in the field of heated apparel, Zonli team pulled together all the features that have proven to work in this category and created this high-quality product line.

If you would like more information about this topic, please call Zonli Home at +86 17300921602, email cs@zonlihome.com, or visit https://zonlihome.com/.

About Zonli Home:

ZONLI HOME, which specializes in home textiles and integrates design, R&D, was founded in 2016. Each fabric, shade, and texture is carefully chosen, and we pay great attention to every step of the process, from local, ethical production to the art and science of product design.

Our goal is to make sure that our products "cover the body and warm the heart," create a warm environment for everyone and transform pets into everyone's closest companion and family.

Official Website: https://zonlihome.com/

This news is published & monitored under the supervision of Incrementors Web Solutions.

Looking for a cozy way to stay warm this winter? Say Goodbye to Old, Chunky, Inconvenient traditional heated blanket, say hi to Zonli's battery powered heated blanket! perfect for snuggling up on the couch or staying toasty in bed. So why not treat yourself (or someone you love) to a little luxury this winter? With Zonli home's heated blanket, you can enjoy the warmth without worrying about cords or batteries.

Related link: https://zonlihome.com/

SparksPlus Brings the College Campus Experience to Senior Living Communities with Some of the Brightest Minds in the Arts, Humanities, and Sciences

SEATTLE, Wash. /ScoopCloud/ -- The SparksPlus On-Demand Life Enrichment Program announces the holistic programs and esteemed speakers for the 2023 season. These video-on-demand classes, designed for seniors living in communities, feature top minds from world-class institutions, such as Yale and Pratt Design Institute, and the United Nations, to a Grammy Award musician. Twelve programs are offered, including Creative Memoir Writing, Finding Your Life's Purpose, and How to Outsmart Cyber Criminals. SparksPlus is a division of 3rdPlus.

"Seniors living in communities want more than bingo and crafts. And we want to deliver on that by bringing thought-provoking and enriching programs to the community that engage all of the senses and support positive aging," shared Cynthia Thurlow, Founder and Principal of SparksPlus, a division of 3rdPlus. "We are working with some of the brightest minds in the world to help transform and enhance the lives of today's elders."

One complimentary on-demand class is being offered for senior living communities so they can see how this holistic program can be shared and brought to life for a full sensory experience. Creative Memoir Writing 101 includes:

* A video recording of the writing course featuring Keith Morris, MFA, Professor of Creative Writing at Clemson University.

* An easy-to-follow guide for senior living life enrichment professionals, with ideas for activities to host during the video presentation and for months after.

* Table tent templates to promote upcoming sessions to residents.

* An art project, "Design Your Book Cover," to inspire your writing, and other engaging projects are included.

Thurlow added, "This type of program is so essential for seniors who are often faced with social isolation, even when they move to active adult senior living communities. The life enrichment offerings bring people together over intellectual content and help create meaningful connections."

"At this week's LeadingAge Annual Meeting, life enrichment professionals were very interested in the program and expressed appreciation for quality content and activity modules for a very affordable price," Thurlow shared.

SparksPlus is a division of 3rdPlus, a one-of-a-kind company with enhanced services to help senior living communities transform the resident experience. Founder and Principal Cynthia Thurlow has worked in advertising for 30 years and in the senior living industry for a decade. She has long held a passion to create a socially conscious company committed to positive aging. Her own family elders' aging journeys, coupled with her deep love for healthy, organic food and her foray into restaurant ownership, have only reinforced that mission.

To receive the free on-demand class, call 888-776-5135, 206-262-1999, or email ideas@3rdPlus.com or visit: https://3rdplus.com/sparksplus/.

For more information and an electronic press kit, visit https://3rdplus.com/press-news/.

The SparksPlus On-Demand Life Enrichment Program announces the holistic programs and esteemed speakers for the 2023 season. These video-on-demand classes, designed for seniors living in communities, feature top minds from world-class institutions, such as Yale and Pratt Design Institute, and the United Nations, to a Grammy Award musician. SparksPlus is a division of 3rdPlus.

Related link: https://3rdplus.com/

Children’s author releases latest in ‘Glad to Do It!’ series about first responders

POMFRET, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- J2B Publishing announces the release of "Uncle Rocky - Fireman #10 - Ice Rescue" (ISBN: 978-1954682160), authored by James Burd Brewster. It's the 10th Uncle Rocky - Fireman book in the "Glad to do it!" children's series and is illustrated for kids aged 3-7. The series honors first responders by retelling true-life emergency response stories through the eyes of its characters: Uncle Rocky - Fireman, Officers Jack and Kate and EMT Morales.

"Ice Rescue," illustrated by Mary Barrows, tells the story of three New York City Fire Department (FDNY) firefighters from Ladder 54 where Tom Yuneman, Chris Harkinish and Kevin Hillman rescued a stranded boy from the ice in the Bronx River. Other books in the series also center on firemen as heroes.

The idea for the "Glad to do it!" series first came to be when Brewster started telling bedtime stories to his two oldest boys (ages 5 and 3). He made up a character named Uncle Rocky - Fireman.

"Boys love firemen, so I told them firefighter stories," Brewster says.

As he told the stories, a pattern emerged. The alarm would sound, Uncle Rocky would dress for the fire, test the fire truck's siren and horn, respond to the emergency and save the day. When thanked for his rescue, Uncle Rocky always said, "Glad to do it!" During the storytelling, Brewster's boys, now 38 and 36, would "pretend" dress for the fire, shout out the fire truck sounds and roar "Glad to do it!" along with Uncle Rocky.

"Since firefighters are usually humble when thanked for doing their duty, the last sentence of every story is 'Glad to do it!'" Brewster explains. "And, so the series was born."

As the series became known, parents started asking Brewster to write about police officers and EMTS too since they found their young children loved them as well.

In the also recently released "Trusty Tinsley," (ISBN: 978-1954682153), the sixth Officer Jack book in the "Glad to do it!" series, a Shiloh Shepherd leads Trooper Sandberg of the New Hampshire State Police (NHSP) and Lebanon, New Hampshire and Hartford, Vermont first responders to the car wreck of its owner. Officer Jack, an African-American male, and Officer Kate, a white female, are partners in the stories.

"It was a story right out of Lassie," Brewster says. "First responders go to rescue a stray dog on the highway and the dog leads them to his owner, who'd been thrown from his car and was freezing to death. He saved his life."

"Baby's Breath" (ISBN: 978-1954682146), the fifth in the Officer Jack series, is a Brewster favorite. TSA Officer Cecilia Morales was working the scanner line at Newark Liberty International Airport. She scrambled over a bunch of equipment to reach a baby who had stopped breathing and her medical training prevented a horrible holiday tragedy.

"My sister sent me the story and I knew it'd be perfect for the Officer Jack series," Brewster says.

Brewster was personally involved in "Clamshell Stretcher," (ISBN: 978-1941927519), the first EMT Morales story in the series. This story describes how EMTs and paramedics from Waldorf Station 12 in Charles County, Maryland used a "Clamshell Stretcher" to lift a man off the ground without causing him undue pain.

"I was driving home in a light rain and saw a man on the ground surrounded by neighbors," Brewster says. "I stopped and held an umbrella. The man had a dislocated hip and EMTs used a 'Clamshell Stretcher' to lift him off the ground. It was an amazing invention, so I wrote a story about it."

The "Glad to do it!" series is unique in that the stories retell actual emergency responses, encourage children to play-act and use adult characters as role models so children learn to go to adults for help. It also teaches humility with its final "Glad to do it!" sentence.

Learn more about "Ice Rescue" at: https://www.gladtodoit.net/uncle-rocky-10-ice-rescue.html

To learn more about the series, and download a free eBook version of "Uncle Rocky - Fireman #1 Fire!" visit: https://www.gladtodoit.net/.

About James Burd Brewster:

James Burd Brewster, president, J2B Publishing and the author of the "Glad to do it!" series started J2B Publishing in 2013 as an Indie Press with a mission to publish "Good books for boys and girls." It now specializes in publishing new children's book authors.

Brewster grew up in Albany, NY, learned to sail on Lake Champlain, graduated from the United States Coast Guard Academy, drove an icebreaker to the Arctic and retired after a 23-year career. He and wife, Katie, raised and homeschooled five children and live in southern Maryland.

Brewster's father taught him, "You can grow grass or children, but not both." Like his father, he decided to grow children and now writes and publishes children's books to help other parents grow their children.

Learn more: https://www.j2bllc.com/.

J2B Publishing announces the release of "Uncle Rocky - Fireman #10 - Ice Rescue" (ISBN: 978-1954682160), authored by James Burd Brewster. It's the 10th Uncle Rocky - Fireman book in the "Glad to do it!" children's series and is illustrated for kids aged 3-7. The series honors first responders by retelling true-life emergency response stories through the eyes of its characters: Uncle Rocky - Fireman, Officers Jack and Kate and EMT Morales.

Related link: https://www.j2bllc.com/

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ABOUT THE PEOPLE'S AGENDA/GA BWR

Georgia Black Women's Roundtable is convened by the Georgia Coalition for the People's Agenda (http://thepeoplesagenda.org). The People's Agenda is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization performing year-round voter registration, education, and mobilization in Black communities throughout Georgia. Led by board chair, Rev. J. A. Milner, and Helen Butler, the organization has headquarters in Atlanta and offices in Athens, Albany, Macon, Augusta, LaGrange, and Savannah.

ABOUT CLAYTON COUNTY BLACK WOMEN'S ROUNDTABLE

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

ABOUT GEORGIA STAND-UP

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

ATLANTA NORTH GEORGIA LABOR COUNCIL

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

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

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

Asheville Couple Cooks to Travel and Guests Are Signing Up

ASHEVILLE, N.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Founded in March 2015 by Liisa Andreassen and John Godts, Cottage Cooking in Asheville, North Carolina, was first started to fund the couple's passion for travel. Over the years, it's evolved into a business where others can share their travel and culinary experiences too. To date, together, they've traveled to 11 countries, four continents and 36 states. They always bring back some new culinary knowledge and are eager to showcase it.

"The business kind of started as a lark," Liisa Andreassen, the business's co-owner, says. "We had some friends over and taught them how to make sushi. One of our friends - said, 'you should do this!' Do what we asked? Make sushi? 'No, give cooking classes in your house.'"

That's all this dynamic couple needed to hear. They were off and running. John Godts, a hospital physical therapist by day, quickly sprang into action and started posting fliers at his workplace. Andreassen, a freelance copywriter, tapped into her marketing and PR skills to help spread the word.

"It's been such a fantastic experience," Godts says. "It's a win-win. We get to do something we love - cooking and entertaining - and we get paid for it to boot. Wow! That's pretty awesome."

And, of course their guests benefit too. Most people who sign up for classes have looked at the couple's website, which has been recently re-designed to take online bookings and payments, and find that this is not your average cooking class. Photos and videos help to illustrate the experience so guests can really get a feel for the place before clicking that "book" button.

"Most folks who sign up for a cooking class with us are looking for something different," Andreassen says. "They don't want a traditional cooking class with 15+ people. They want something intimate and a maybe even a little unfamiliar."

Cottage Cooking classes host up to six in their cottage-style home in North Asheville. They'll also go off site to people's homes and Air B and Bs for larger groups of up to 12. And, the couple really works to keep things fresh.

"We've added a few new classes to the schedule including a Moroccan cooking class as well as football foods and Hawaiian BBQ," Godts says. "We're constantly working to create new and fun culinary experiences for our guests."

A recent guest, Stu Helm, also known as "The Food Fan," is an Asheville-based food writer and influential voice in Asheville's food scene.

He recently took a class and shared his experience in a podcast here - https://stuhelmfoodfan.substack.com/p/good-morning-friends-479.

"We love meeting new people and sharing tales of travel, food and adventure," Andreassen says. "So, for anyone looking for a cooking class that's a little outside the box - or pot - come see what we're cooking up."

About Cottage Cooking:

Cottage Cooking classes are designed for the home cook and a typical class is designed like a dinner party where guests prepare and eat an appetizer, main course and dessert. There's also a Saturday morning baking class once a month. These classes make for a great date night or ladies' night out. The company has also built a reputation in the business for hosting fun bachelorette parties and family reunions. In addition to a schedule which can be found on their website, they'll also design custom dates and menus as requested.

Classes range from $85 to $125 and private classes for two are $300. All classes are BYOB. Gift certificates are also available.

MORE INFORMATION:

https://cottagecookingasheville.com/

FOLLOW ON SOCIAL:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cottage.Cooking

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

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbW9jFa2DTZB_dhqpvrrBEA

Founded in March 2015 by Liisa Andreassen and John Godts, Cottage Cooking in Asheville, North Carolina, was first started to fund the couple's passion for travel. Over the years, it's evolved into a business where others can share their travel and culinary experiences too. To date, together, they've traveled to 11 countries, four continents and 36 states. They always bring back some new culinary knowledge and are eager to showcase it.

Related link: https://cottagecookingasheville.com/

The Story of the Orange Dress: Ashburn-Based Private Chef Turned Heads at her Wedding in Local Berryville, VA

ASHBURN, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- Private Chef and Owner of Fleur de Cuisine, Natalie Ramos (now Natalie Vaughn), has shared her story about overcoming adversity on her way to success in building her chef and catering business in Loudoun County, Virginia. Through sharing her story about growing up in Brooklyn, New York's housing projects, Natalie has gained a large following for her strength, willingness, and determination for overcoming obstacles that led to her personal and professional success.

Vaughn continued to turn heads when celebrating her wedding on September 30, 2022 stunting an incredibly unique orange gown.

The Private Chef met her new husband, Michael Vaughn, after a bitter divorce that ended in alleged domestic violence with a near fatal ending. Michael Vaugh came to Natalie after being in an emotionally abusive relationship for over 20 years. They met each other online after friends convinced them that this was the way to meet new faces. At first glance you wouldn't view them to be a lifelong couple, as Natalie was more fashion forward and a community socialite, while Michael was more understated and less dramatic in his appearance. However, the couple found love in their similar stories, love for family, and love for life.

The couple decided on September 30th for their wedding date; A date that held traumatic memories for the bride, as this was the date that her grandmother passed, the date when she was pushed from a moving vehicle, and the date of a car accident that nearly took her life.

It was this date that Natalie decided to fill with positivity moving forward.

The theme of the wedding held true to the late September date and encompassed Fall details throughout. Orange had always been a color of change for Natalie, and it represented life's way of adapting to order. The orange dress was one of which Natalie designed herself from Di Domenico Designs by Dress Maker, Kelsy Hall. The two made their connection through Fleur de Cuisine catering Hall's wedding, and now it was Natalie's turn. Together, her and Natalie came up with a dress that would represent the greatest change in Natalie's life, finally feeling loved. The dress was bohemian style that fell free and embraced being open to the new world ahead, with just enough embroidery and jewels to convey Natalie's fashion-driven personality.

The wedding was held at Juniper Acres in Berryville, VA, and was chosen for its beautiful Blue Ridge Mountain views, and was also owned by local friends.

The wedding in total supported over 16 local community businesses and was filled with delicious hors d'oeuvres at the cocktail hour including petite Philly cheesesteaks, a hot dog station, walking taco station, French fry stations, an elaborate charcuterie station, and even SpaghettiOs. The tables were filled with pictures of things the couple loved, including polaroid cameras and memento albums to save photographs for the bride and groom. The wedding favors included local apple pie moonshine, a warm cozy blanket, popcorn and m&m's, and pecan pie jars.

To make things even more personal, Natalie reached out to family members to find siblings she hadn't seen in over 15 years to attend the wedding and further signify new beginnings. Natalie also took samples of her father's voice and added it to her first dance song with her father's brothers and son who also walked her down the aisle, leaving the guests in tears. In addition, Natalie helped Michael with his mother-son dance by soliciting the help of a friend and local musician, Hilary Veltri, to sing an acoustic rendition of the theme song from the popular television show "The Golden Girls" of which Michael and his mother would watch daily.

The guests filled with joy and love for the blending family, and raved positivity about incorporating Michael and Natalie's LGBTQ daughters by having drag queens in attendance. It was a local community wedding celebrating all things change and diversity.

Learn more about Natalie and Fleur de Cuisine, at: https://www.fleurdecuisine.com/ and https://www.facebook.com/Fleurdecuisinecooking/.

Wedding Vendors:

* Venue: Juniper Acres

* Photographer: Andrew Sample Photography

* Consultant: S&S Events

* Day of Planner: Tyrone Shelby and Shaday Ortiz

* Officiant: Chekesha Kaitlin

* Wedding Gown and Veil: Di Domenico Designs

* Shoes: Custom Converse Sneakers

* Hair: Krave Creations and Strands by Dottie

* Makeup: Ashley Ramos of Ulta and Brittany of Blingz

* Bridesmaids' dresses: Do Domenico Designs

* Formal wear: Miguel Wilson

* Invitations: E. L. Strategic

* Flowers: S&S Events, LLC

* Rental equipment: S&S Events, Country Farm Houses, Vintage Games, Nance Vintage Equipment

* Catering: Devine Swine, Fleur De Cuisine, Reckies Caribbean Catering, Fantasticks

* Music: Hilary Viletri, DJ Z Haul

* Cake: Lucy Q's Bakery

* Favors: Lucy Q's and Tiana's Mean Cuisine

* Transportation: Regal Limos of Ashburn, VA, and VIP Events

Private Chef and Owner of Fleur de Cuisine, Natalie Ramos (now Natalie Vaughn), has shared her story about overcoming adversity on her way to success in building her chef and catering business in Loudoun County, Virginia. Through sharing her story about growing up in Brooklyn, New York's housing projects, Natalie has gained a large following for her strength, willingness, and determination for overcoming obstacles that led to her personal and professional success.

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

MEDIA ADVISORY: Local Anchor Teams Up with The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank to Launch Kindness Card Initiative as Part of Annual ‘Season of Sharing’

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Local Anchor joins the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank to kick off the annual "Season for Sharing" campaign. Local Anchor will mobilize the South Bay Los Angeles communities with a Kindness Cards initiative to bring a personal touch to food delivery around Thanksgiving time.

The campaign begins with a Local Anchor squad of 25+ volunteers to help assemble food packages for over 29,000 low-income seniors, women with infants, and children in Los Angeles County.

WHEN: Sat., Oct. 1, 2022 - 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

WHERE: Los Angeles Regional Food Bank - NEW CITY OF INDUSTRY LOCATION, 2300 Pellissier Place, City of Industry, CA 90601

WHY: LA County is home to more food insecure children than any other county in the nation. The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank is the central resource for the supply and distribution of food for people in need throughout LA County. In cooperation with hundreds of partner agencies, the Food Bank serves hundreds of thousands of people each month.

Because we believe kindness matters and starts in our communities, Local Anchor is teaming up with the Los Angeles Food Bank's 2022 "Season for Sharing" campaign. Local Anchor is partnering with local schools and families for a special Thanksgiving Kindness card-making project throughout the fall. Kids and families throughout the South Bay community will be asked to make unique Thanksgiving Kindness Cards that will be distributed by the Food Bank along with food during the 2022 holiday season so that recipients receive personal messages of support and care. The Local Anchor Kindness Card project is with support from First Republic Bank and Sylvan Learning.

PRESS CONTACT - MUST RSVP TO ATTEND LA FOOD BANK VOLUNTEER SESSION:
Laura Stotland / laura@localanchor.com / (424) 225-1108

**We will have photos to share of the Local Anchor team volunteer session after Saturday - let us know if you're interested!

ABOUT LOCAL ANCHOR:

LOCAL ANCHOR is a media company offering masterfully curated content, focused on supporting families navigate their busy lives by serving parents, and caregivers with hyperlocal resources to cultivate kindness; encourage empathy, and empower its users to build supportive communities rooted in shared interests. Our Vision is to foster a national culture of kindness, one community at a time; by empowering families to develop and invest in giving back, volunteering, and building supportive communities.

Learn more: https://localanchor.com/

https://localanchor.com/thanksgiving-kindness-project-making-cards/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/seDApef1698

Local Anchor joins the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank to kick off the annual "Season for Sharing" campaign. Local Anchor will mobilize the South Bay Los Angeles communities with a Kindness Cards initiative to bring a personal touch to food delivery around Thanksgiving time.

Related link: https://localanchor.com/

Tori Belle Cosmetics Cover Model Contest!

SEATTLE, Wash. /ScoopCloud/ -- In partnership with the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF), Tori Belle Cosmetics is searching for the next bold, brave and confident model to grace the front cover of their magazine and other digital platforms totaling an audience of over 2.5 million per month and a prize package valued at $500.

Second and third place models will also be selected to be featured and receive a $300 and $100 prize package.

The finalists will be announced during Tori Belle Cosmetic's 3rd annual Party in Pink live streamed event on October 6th where ten will go on to compete for a place in the top three via audience votes. One vote is $1.

Voting will end October 16 and the winners will be announced October 20, 2022.

All entries are $5 and must be received by Monday October 3. 100% of entry fees and votes will be donated to the NBCF.

To Enter submit your photo at: https://www.toribellecosmetics.com/pages/party-in-pink-landing-page

In partnership with the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF), Tori Belle Cosmetics is searching for the next bold, brave and confident model to grace the front cover of their magazine and other digital platforms totaling an audience of over 2.5 million per month and a prize package valued at $500.

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

31 dogs saved from a dog-meat breeding farm in China have arrived in the United States following year long CDC dog ban

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- China Rescue Dogs, a 501(c)(3) organization, committed to rescuing and saving dogs from the slaughterhouses, meat trade, abuse, and neglect in China, has rescued into the U.S. the first large shipments of dogs from China following the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) dog ban.

"This truly was a global effort with teams from China, Canada and the United States all coming together to save these dogs from slaughter," acknowledged Jill Stewart, President and Founder of China Rescue Dogs.

The dogs were all saved in April 2022 from a dog meat breeding farm in China. Their rescue was featured by People: https://people.com/pets/china-rescue-dogs-saving-golden-retrievers-corgis/

"To know these dogs now have a second chance at life and will experience love for the first time, makes all the time spent on a project like this worthwhile," said Brandy Cherven, Vice President of China Rescue Dogs. "They were being sent to the slaughterhouse when we stepped in and saved them."

The dogs have spent the last three weeks stationed in Vancouver, Canada waiting for the final leg of their journey." Stewart adds, "We could not have accomplished this mission without the help of David MacNeil, CEO of WeatherTech, Nordstrom's, Dog is My CoPilot, and all our supporters. Dog is My CoPilot is a nonprofit that saves dogs from high kill shelters. The flight from Canada into the U.S. was their first international transport."

There are 10 other rescue organizations that have helped find these pups their forever homes. Of the 31 survivors now in the U.S., 16 are Golden Retrievers and 15 are Frenchie's and Pugs. Other dogs from the April 2022 rescue have already been adopted in Canada.

On July 14, 2021, the CDC suspended dogs imported from 113 countries, including China, due to the potential risk of spreading the canine rabies virus variant (CRVV.) Since that time, China Rescue Dogs has been saving dogs into Canada. This flight marks the first time since the CDC Dog Ban that a large shipment of dogs were granted permission to come into the U.S.

"We have worked closely with the CDC and the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to guarantee that all the dogs are healthy, properly vaccinated and tested against canine rabies," said Stewart. "We are honored that our best practices of doing what is best for the dogs was rewarded with their entry into the U.S."

If you would like more information on China Rescue Dogs, or to support their mission, please go to: https://chinarescuedogs.org/.

hina Rescue Dogs, a 501(c)(3) organization, committed to rescuing and saving dogs from the slaughterhouses, meat trade, abuse, and neglect in China, has rescued into the U.S. the first large shipments of dogs from China following the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) dog ban.

Related link: https://chinarescuedogs.org/

An Innovative Approach to Bringing Historical Roots to Contemporary Art

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Over the past four decades, Kaloust Guedel has worked in diverse styles and techniques, constantly searching for the "perfect" resonance, ever aware that his search is an endless one. His next experiment was to combine a painting he had painted with a sculpture he didn't particularly like.

"I thought something was missing with it, but couldn't put my finger on it," he said. To see what would happen, he cut out the shape of the figure in hand and placed it inside the cut area, unaware that he had stumbled upon an old inlay technique.

Guedel's rediscovery of inlay through art is a pioneering achievement in contemporary painting. Guedel calls the inlay work "an investigation of immersion in painting."

The use of inlay is very widespread in decorative art. The earliest example of the inlay dates back to 2500 B.C., and it comes from Mesopotamia's Sumer civilization. There are also examples from China dating back to 400 B.C. Sculptures of inlay work are found in various periods. It was later popularized in Europe by Andre-Charles Boulle (1642-1732).

Guedel's prior work was based on the idea of excessivism. He was instrumental in bringing the movement to the masses. He curated the inaugural exhibition at a Los Angeles art gallery. As the movement's popularity grew around the world, other artists, fashion designers, and musicians joined in, transforming it into a global art movement in line with globalization. Even Gallero magazine went so far as to call it, "... truly a millennial movement in all senses of the word."

Guedel talks about his work with the utmost passion. "What interests me is the relationship between the elements that I find captivating for my curiosity at the moment of creation. I see my work as a body of records of ideas, thoughts, and feelings. The timeline can be traced by going back to my earlier works and determining my feelings and thoughts at the time of their creation," he said.

He adds, "To me, art is a form of communication in which you express yourself about something; you do so from the depths of your spiritual being; a place where consciousness cannot fully penetrate. I suppose that is what makes art so mysterious and so individualistic."

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

Over the past four decades, Kaloust Guedel has worked in diverse styles and techniques, constantly searching for the "perfect" resonance, ever aware that his search is an endless one. His next experiment was to combine a painting he had painted with a sculpture he didn't particularly like.

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

Death Row Resident Reveals Poignant Childhood Trauma – Compassion Prison Project Interviews author Jarvis Jay Masters

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Compassion Prison Project Founder and Compassion in Action podcast host, Fritzi Horstman, has released a riveting, in-depth interview with San Quentin death row resident and author, Jarvis Jay Masters. Masters, author of "That Bird Has My Wings: The Autobiography of an Innocent Man on Death Row" and "Finding Freedom: Writings From Death Row," is also a well-known Buddhist practitioner and Covid survivor. Oprah Winfrey has recently selected "That Bird Has My Wings" as her latest pick for Oprah's Book Club.

In this compelling conversation, Horstman and Masters discuss, amongst many absorbing topics, evidence of strikingly similar childhood trauma endured by nearly all death row residents. They reflect on the day Masters stepped in to prevent a gay prison resident from being beaten and discuss his youth, where Masters recalls frequent visits to a local college campus, wondering why he couldn't experience life as a real student.

At once heartbreaking, wise and hopeful, Masters never shies away from the diligent questions posed by Horstman. Masters has steadfastly maintained his innocence for the crime in which he was sentenced to death and is currently awaiting a decision on his case by the federal courts. As part of CPP's innovative trauma-informed outreach, Horstman recently had the unique opportunity to work with several other men living on death row as well.

"It was a great privilege to speak with Jarvis Jay Masters. Not only did he overcome a childhood filled with trauma, neglect and violence, he took every possibility to transform himself, revealing the extraordinary person that he truly is today," said Fritzi Horstman - Founder Compassion Prison Project.

"With over 2,400 people living on death row, there are over 2,400 extraordinary human beings we can rehabilitate and support to find ways to make amends to their victims and give back to society. Gandhi said: 'An eye for an eye leaves the whole world blind.' If we take another look and realize there are better ways to deal with crime and State-sanctioned murder, we have a chance to see clearly again."

If you would like more information about this topic, please email media@compassionprisonproject.org

Find this podcast and others at: https://compassionprisonproject.org/compassion-in-action-podcast/

About Compassion Prison Project:

Compassion Prison Project is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Founded in 2019, our mission is to create trauma-informed prisons and communities. Learn more at: https://compassionprisonproject.org/.

Compassion Prison Project Founder and Compassion in Action podcast host, Fritzi Horstman, has released a riveting, in-depth interview with San Quentin death row resident and author, Jarvis Jay Masters, author of "That Bird Has My Wings: The Autobiography of an Innocent Man on Death Row." Oprah Winfrey has recently selected "That Bird Has My Wings" as her latest pick for Oprah's Book Club.

Related link: https://compassionprisonproject.org/

Launch of a New Monthly Magazine – ‘A Journal of Human Understanding’

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Announcing the launch of a new monthly magazine, www.HumanNature.org, dedicated to exploring human nature in all its gory and subtlest aspects, through short stories, new characters, reader feedback, and cartoons illustrative of human nature-like holding a mirror to humanity.

The launch of the September 2022 premiere issue is dedicated to the topic, "Our Genes, a Work of Nature or God's Plan?" that according to the Journal's Editor-in-Chief, Tara Chand, "explores the quintessential issue of our gender and its many shades, a fascinating subject for everyone."

The future issues of the monthly magazine would address a wide range of issues as delineated in the web magazine to explore wide ranging aspects of the human nature. Please spread the word to your friends and family as what we are seeking to explore here, it's of great interest to everyone, and they may finally find answers to the many questions they were afraid to ask.

The inspiration for creating "The Journal of Human Understanding" began, said Mr. Chand, "with being utterly fascinated with human nature and its integral role in everything we do as a society, from when we wake up until we go to sleep. Our unique human nature influences every part of our daily lives, in our friends, politics, religion, conflicts, culture and personal beliefs, creating a rich social fabric."

Mr. Chand continued, "We depend on our audience to further this search into human nature; please let us know your feedback via data entry fields spread across the pages of the magazine, and we'll publish them in future issues. Please subscribe to our journal, it's free to the first 100,000 and after that we may have a nominal annual fee. "

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

About Tara Chand Esq.

HumanNature.org Founder & Editor-in-Chief is an electrical engineer, a scientist, as well as a non-practicing attorney, with expertise in systems, software, and cyber-security by education and experience, as well as a prolific inventor. He is also the Founder & President of IPG Natural Health LLC, dedicated to providing effective natural cures for a wide range of health issues, for which Western Medicine often cannot effectively treat. IPG Natural Health LLC is a wholly owned division of Internet Promise Group Inc., an innovation enterprise, active across seven market verticals, including human health. InternetPromiseGroup.com

Announcing the launch of a new monthly magazine, HumanNature.org, dedicated to exploring human nature in all its gory and subtlest aspects, through short stories, new characters, reader feedback, and cartoons illustrative of human nature-like holding a mirror to humanity.

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

BabyLiveAdvice Announces $1.1M Seed Investment to Improve Maternal-Infant Health Outcomes

CALABASAS, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- BabyLiveAdvice™, the leading virtual maternal telehealth provider, announced the completion of a $1.1 million seed investment led by Venn Ventures and Synergen Technology Labs. BabyLiveAdvice, founded by CEO Sigi Marmorstein, RN, PHN, MSN, FNP-BC, partners with healthcare providers and health systems to support coordinated, comprehensive prenatal, postpartum, and infant care anywhere by closing the care gaps experienced by expecting and new parents. The result is reduced complications and better outcomes for parents and babies.

Participating strategic investors span the healthcare ecosystem, including

* Venn Ventures, venture capital group,

* Synergen Technology Labs, technology innovators,

* Ob Hospitalist Group (OBHG) the nation's largest and only dedicated OB hospitalist provider,

* CareFirst BCBS, payer organization, and

* LifeBridge Health, hospital system.

"Providing safe and timely care to pregnant people and infants has always been a tremendous challenge," said Marmorstein. "Now, with decreasing outpatient and inpatient care capacities, related to provider burnout and shortage, maternal-infant care gaps are growing, resulting in worsening outcomes for parents and babies.

"BabyLiveAdvice's unique approach enables it to reduce these gaps and improve outcomes to enhance, not replace, the current standard of care."

BabyLiveAdvice had served over 40,000 parents, including Hispanic, Black, Navajo Nation, and other historically underserved populations. Through research and pilots, BabyLiveAdvice has demonstrated improved clinical outcomes, decreased emergency room use, reduced readmissions, and fewer postpartum complications.

Marmorstein explained how BabyLiveAdvice, "provides services that support marginalized, remote communities at a fraction of the cost with improved outcomes. We are the only company on the market that can support the entire pregnancy journey in one place from the comfort of the user's home without increasing the provider burden. With BabyLiveAdvice, babies now come with instructions."

Users have access to a network of resources and support for their journey to parenthood, including nurses, nurse-practitioners, doulas, lactation specialists, socialworkers, mental health providers, nutritional specialists, care coordinators, diabetic specialists, and virtual group education classes.

BLA provides users with virtual, live maternal education classes that support self-care and self-advocacy. Users receive significantly improved maternal-infant education in lactation, proper nutrition, mental health, weight management, blood pressure and blood sugar control, and other benefits.

"Maternal health is often overlooked and is an area of healthcare ripe for innovation benefitting both parents and children," said Melissa Larson Youngblood, BabyLiveAdvice Board Member and Co-Founder and Partner at Venn Ventures, which co-led the investment round. "It was easy to invest in BabyLiveAdvice and Sigi as a women entrepreneur. The company is mature, has a strong pipeline, and has tens of thousands of users across the nation."

BabyLiveAdvice leverages a VSee-built, customized telehealth solution that is HIPAA-compliant, featuring EHR integration, telemonitoring capabilities, chat functionality, and group or one-on-one consultations. All consultations are documented, and notes are shared with the patient's medical provider through seamless EHR integration to assure medical and supportive care are well aligned.

"Through our BabyLiveAdvice partnership, we look forward to providing new maternal care resources to our patients and hospital partners," said Dr. Amy VanBlaricom, OBHG's Chief Clinical Officer and BabyLiveAdvice board member. "We are especially excited about BabyLiveAdvice's potential to positively impact patients with access to care challenges and the minority populations we serve. BabyLiveAdvice aligns with OBHG's mission of saving the lives of mothers and babies regardless of location, race, or economic status. Supporting patients throughout all phases of pregnancy, including the prenatal and postpartum stages, is so important in closing gaps in care."

BabyLiveAdvice partners include March of Dimes, Johnson and Johnson, The National Black Doulas Association, LifeBridge Health Sinai Hospital in Baltimore, Huntington Health, AltaMed, among others.

For media queries and BLA partnerships contact David Marmorstein: david@babyliveadvice.com.

About BabyLiveAdvice:

BabyLiveAdvice is a woman and nurse-founded company with the mission to close the care gaps in maternal childcare and reduce maternal and infant morbidity and mortality around the world. BabyLiveAdvice has helped tens of thousands of parents to get one-on-one support and education from a caring provider in their language. Its mission is to help parents and improve the statistics surrounding pregnancy, births, and maternal wellbeing.

Learn more: https://babyliveadvice.com/

RELATED LINKS:

https://vsee.com/

https://vennventures.com/

https://www.synergentl.com/

BabyLiveAdvice, the leading virtual maternal telehealth provider, announced the completion of a $1.1 million seed investment led by Venn Ventures and Synergen Technology Labs. BabyLiveAdvice, founded by CEO Sigi Marmorstein, RN, PHN, MSN, FNP-BC, partners with healthcare providers and health systems to support coordinated, comprehensive prenatal, postpartum, and infant care.

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

Opening Thurs., Sept. 15: ‘Veils’ The Musical Takes Center Stage Reminding Us of The Price Paid for The Freedoms Won and The Women Behind It All

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Black Hollywood Education and Resource Center (BHERC) has teamed with Restoration Stage (Washington, D.C.) to bring the popular musical "Veils" to the Los Angeles area for a short run Thursday, September 15, and Friday, September 16 at 8 p.m.; Saturday, September 17 at 2 and 8 p.m. and Sunday, September 18 at 8 p.m. at the Nate Holden Performing Art Center in Los Angeles, California. Purchase tickets at https://bherc.org/.

So much has been written about the men lost in the Civil Rights and Black Lives Matter movements. Unexplored, however, are the stories of the women whose lives are affected by these tragedies - the women who wear the "Veils." This musical is described as an emotional historical pageant of grief and resilience that pays tribute to women veiled in mourning, with a focus on Black lives lost in bloodshed during the sixties Civil Rights Movement to gain many of the freedoms we enjoy today.

BHERC believes that "Veils" on its own sends a powerful message of courage and sacrifice. However, as we find ourselves at the precipice of a democracy that is being contested, and the right to vote is being undermined as well as other freedoms, BHERC believes that "Veils" is truly a great example of the price that has already been paid for the gains being threatened. It represents the strong Women, like those who today are standing up and marching for justice.

"We are proud to bring this inspirational and compelling work to Los Angeles for a second time," States Sandra J. Evers-Manly. "The pandemic disrupted the performance in March 2020, but not this time. Everyone must come out to witness this incredible musical. It will inform, energize, and inspire you, with hope for our future as a people."

"Veils," the musical, is written by Steven A. Butler, Jr. with music and lyrics by Courtney Baker-Oliver and Christopher John Burnett and is directed by Courtney Baker-Oliver. Joining the West Coast production is soul singer, dramatist, educator, and activist Ayanna Gregory. The daughter of iconic comedian and civil rights activist Dick Gregory, Ayanna continues her father's work with deep awareness and concern for Human Rights expressed through her gift of music. More than entertainment; they are her mission. "She touches the place that is the deepest and clearest in my heart", Stevie Wonder. Filling out the cast are Bernie Alston, Steven A. Butler, Jr.*, Desire' Dubose*, Kandace Foreman, Bridget Garwood, Andrea Gerald, Robert Hamilton, Brandyn Marshall, Corisa Myers, Suli Myrie, Ayana Ogunsunlade*, Grace Pugh, Nakiea Washington Dade (*member of Actor's Equity Association). Stage Management by Ronald Lee Newman*, Musical Direction by Justin Thompson, Choreography by Kyra DaCosta *, Sound/Video Design by David Lamont Wilson*, Lighting Design by Stage Jerry Dale, Jr. Set and Properties by Courtney Baker-Oliver and Robert Hamilton, Costumes by Courtney Baker-Oliver & Luqman Salim, Technical Direction by Robert Hamilton; Executive Producer, Sandra Evers-Manly and Producers: Courtney Baker-Oliver and Steven A. Butler, Jr.

ACCOLADES INCLUDE:

"The singer-actors have created an exquisitely beautiful experience of enduring sorrow, honor, and healing." - John Stoltenberg

"The surprise is that with Veils two such multitalented African American young men have undertaken this profoundly womanist theme with such deep empathy and authentic respect. This, to my knowledge, is a first in theatre history." - DCMetroTheatreArts.com

"Tackles roles ranging from Sybrina Fulton and Mamie Till to Jacqueline Kennedy and Viola Liuzzo." - The Washington Informer

"I'm thrilled that my mother's story is one being told in this production which brings history to life and light." - Mary Liuzzo, daughter of civil rights martyr Viola Liuzzo

TICKETS:

Tickets are $55.00 each. $45.00 for students and seniors. $45.00 for groups of 10 or more. For tickets, log onto https://bherc.org/ or call 310.284.3170.

About the BHERC:

Founded in 1996 by Sandra Evers-Manly, the Black Hollywood Education and Resource Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, public benefit organization designed to advocate, educate, research, develop, and preserve the history and future of Black images in film and television. Through film festivals, award ceremonies, book signings, script readings, contests, scholarships, other programs, and special events, BHERC recognizes the contributions of Black men and women in front of and behind the scenes in the entertainment industry.

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About Restoration Stage, Inc. - (Washington, DC) is an independent theatre company. Best known for the original works of its founders, playwright Steven A. Butler, Jr., director/lyricist Courtney Baker-Oliver, and composer Christopher John Burnett, it is a partnership that has yielded the critically acclaimed "The Truth", "All That Glitters", and "Chocolate Covered Ants." The core focus of Restoration Stage, Inc. is to produce innovative theatrical productions with themes that contribute to the ongoing dialogue about how to improve the condition of the family in American society.

Our Founders: Courtney Baker-Oliver and Steven A. Butler, Jr. created Restoration Stage, Inc. in May 2005 and serve as Restoration Stage's legal directors. Initially created as a producing entity for Butler's play, "The Truth," it has expanded to include additional projects currently in various stages of development. Since 2005, Restoration Stage has employed the talents of more than fifty performers, designers, technicians, and other support staff to produce its productions. http://www.restorationstage.org

The Black Hollywood Education and Resource Center (BHERC) has teamed with Restoration Stage (Washington, D.C.) to bring the popular musical "Veils" to the Los Angeles area for a short run Thursday, September 15, and Friday, September 16 at 8 p.m.; Saturday, September 17 at 2 and 8 p.m. and Sunday, September 18 at 8 p.m. at the Nate Holden Performing Art Center in Los Angeles.

Related link: https://bherc.org/

Flight 93 on September 11 Final Call: New Animation Video

SAN JOSE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Jack Grandcolas, Pebble Beach, California, lost his wife on flight 93 on 9/11/2001 and shares his story and the actual final call on an answering machine message from her. In this animated video from YouTuber Kipp Berdiansky and his channel, "Heroes of War," the viewer can listen to this message and see how that day unfolded and how it has affected him to this day.

The video can be watched at https://youtu.be/vvR_KeIvcag

The video is also found on the YouTube Channel "Heroes of War" ( https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Wy6sE5NlEJkNdsPMaKHhQ ) which highlights the War stories from the point of view of regular civilians and soldiers.

The YouTube channel was just created 7/15/2022 and a new video is released every week.

All stories have a blend of live interview video interspersed with animation. The narration of the interview is consistent throughout the entire video.

If an interview with Kipp Berdiansky the channel creator or Jack Grandcolas or any of the content providers is of interest, please contact him directly.

Jack Grandcolas, Pebble Beach, California, lost his wife on flight 93 on 9/11/2001 and shares his story and the actual final call on an answering machine message from her. In this animated video from YouTuber Kipp Berdiansky and his channel, "Heroes of War," the viewer can listen to this message and see how that day unfolded and how it has affected him to this day.

Healing addiction and illness through writing: ‘Silently Said’ by author Diana Lee

CUDWORTH, Saskatchewan /ScoopCloud/ -- A harrowing story of painful illness and the damage alcoholism has on a family, "Silently Said: A Journey Through Illness and Addiction" (ISBN: 978-0228811848) is the first in the new "Silence" series by Diana Lee.

Released in June 2022, "Silently Said: A Journey Through Illness and Addiction" is set in a quiet town. The author chronicles the journey her family had through rare illnesses. It details what life was like growing up with a sick mother and alcoholic father in rural Saskatchewan, Canada. Diana learns how to mother her siblings even though she is the youngest and just a small child herself. Even though she is young, Diana proves age doesn't matter when there is no one else to take on the duties of the house.

Once into adulthood, Diana works hard to push past the brokenness she feels inside, but is hit again with another hard blow, this time with her sister. The book is a reminder that we all have a story, and within it, there are lessons we can all learn and grow from.

AUTHOR EVENT:

On Friday, September 16, 2022 at the Plenty United Church Diana will be hosting an author for a meet and greet. The event starts at 7 p.m. and there will be coffee, tea and snacks. There will also be books available to be signed and purchased.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

DIANA LEE is the youngest daughter of Les and Margaret Kirk of Plenty, SK. Diana now resides in Cudworth, a small town in Saskatchewan, Canada, with her twin daughters Joelle & Julia and husband Brent. Diana graduated from the University of Regina and has a challenging and rewarding career in local government.

To learn more about Diana and the new "Silent" series, visit https://authordianalee.com/.

"Silently Said: A Journey Through Illness and Addiction" is the first in the new series from Diana Lee. It's now out through Tellwell Publishing (RRP $19) and available through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Indigo and more.

BOOK SUMMARY:

Author: DIANA LEE

Email: SILENTLYSAID2022@GMAIL.COM

Genre: BIOGRAPHY & AUTOBIOGRAPHY / Women

Released: JUNE 2022

PAPERBACK ISBN-13: 978-0-2288-1184-8

HARDCOVER ISBN-13: 978-0-2288-7532-1

EBOOK ISBN-13: 978-0-2288-1185-5

Publisher: Tellwell Talent ( https://tellwell.ca/ ).

A harrowing story of painful illness and the damage alcoholism has on a family, "Silently Said: A Journey Through Illness and Addiction" (ISBN: 978-0228811848) is the first in the new "Silence" series by Diana Lee.

Related link: https://authordianalee.com/

BHERC Presents Its First Health Matters Film Screening and Panel Focused on Mental Health During The 28th Annual African American Film Marketplace and S.E. Manly Short Film Showcase

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Black Hollywood Education Resource Center is proud to welcome an incredible lineup of Films, Filmmakers and Healthcare Professionals to the stage of speakers for our 28th Annual Film Festival and First Annual Health Conference: "SUPLLEMENTALLY": Mastering Mental and Brain Health After the Pandemic Across the Globe: Recovery, Healing, Hope, Reimage, taking place August 27, 2022, Cinemark 18 & XD, 6081 Center Drive, Los Angeles and virtually.

Just-announced special experts:

* Dr. Denese O. Shervington, is the author of Healing Is the Revolution, a guide to healing from

-- historical, intergenerational, interpersonal and community trauma. She also hosts the

-- podcast Healing is the Revolution in which her guests share and explore their healing journey through their traumas.

* Dr. Clyde Glenn, As the President and CEO of Rehoboth in Ridgeland, Mississippi, his mission is to assist clients in leading balanced, wholesome, and productive lives through compassionate, patient-centered psychiatric care, utilizing approaches that integrate body, mind, and spirit.

* Tia Delaney, MSN-Ed, RN, CCM Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion | Alzheimer's Association, California Southland as the director of DEI and brain health for the Alzheimer's Association Ms. Delaney specializes in behavioral health, public health, and delivery-system reform.

* Dr. Stephanie A. Patterson, JD, DNP, MBA, MPA, MSN, RN-BC, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, PHNDNP Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner is a passionate mental health care provider who provides compassionate mental health care nationally.

* Dr. Peter Morante DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, LNC, PMH-BC, GERO-BC, MS-BC provides mental health care and teaches mental health advanced practitioners. He is dedicated to increasing the number of mental health professionals across the globe.

During the Black Hollywood Education Resource Center's Annual film festival, we will bring together a distinguished group of mental health experts, affiliates, peers, providers, government officials, media, and key stakeholders to talk about what it means to recover mentally from the COVID-19 pandemic. We continue to see the increasing number of people experiencing anxiety, depression, psychosis, loneliness, suicide, mass shootings and other mental health concerns these past two years, in addition to the largest number of opioid deaths in our history.

The historical landscape and experience of mental health among the African American Community has and remains to be characterized by current and unresolved trauma and violence. To address the impact of mental and brain health in diverse and marginalized communities across the globe, the Black Hollywood Education and Resource Center will also present its first Health Matters Film Block, featuring films focused on mental health. "This year's films will help us reimage therapeutic treatments and models of mental health care and to determine ways that we can adequately address the complex challenges of mental illness in marginalized communities, which accounts for approximately one-third of mental illness globally", stated Dr. Shirley Evers-Manly, Dean and Professor, Alcorn State University, who will moderate the session.

During the festival and beyond, participants will discuss alternative ways to heal from trauma and explore the intersecting equity issues that exist. These events unequally affect many African Americans, communities of color and marginalized communities the most, placing them more at risk of a mental health crisis.

These circumstances call for radical change in the paradigm and practices of mental health care, including improving standards of clinician training, and revisioning current models of mental health care delivery. Upon completion of this conference, participants will enhance their knowledge of evidence-based practices to improve the behavioral and clinical skills of nurses, social workers, and other health care professionals who care for persons and families of all ages and cultural / socioeconomic status living with mental illness across the globe through the lens of film and the sound of music.

REGISTRATION AND TICKETS

Event registration is available online at https://bherc.org/bherc-health-matters/

In Person Registration

$50.00- General Admission (4 CEU Credits & Breakfast) | $20.00- Student / Senior(Breakfast)

Live Virtual Attendance

$30.00- General Admission (4 CEU Credits) | $25.00- General Admission | $20.00- Student/Senior

Virtual Attendance

$30.00- General Admission (4 CEU Credits) | $25.00- General Admission | $20.00- Student/Senior

About Black Hollywood Education & Resource Center

Founded in 1996, by Sandra Evers-Manly, BHERC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, public benefit organization designed to advocate, educate, research, develop, and preserve the history and future of African Americans in film and television. BHERC programs include film festivals, mentoring, book signings, script readings, film and animation contests, scholarships, and other programs and special events. BHERC recognizes the contributions of African American men and women in front of and behind the scenes in the entertainment industry.

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SPEAKER BIOS

:: Shirley Evers-Manly, PhD, RN, FAAN is the founder and President of All Health Care, Imani's in Oakland, California and Interim Dean Alcorn State University School of Nursing, in Natchez, Mississippi.

She earned a PhD from the University of California, San Francisco, Bachelor of Science Nursing degree and a Master of Science Nursing degree from Samuel Merritt University in Oakland, California. Dr. Shirley Evers-Manly, has more than 35 years of experience developing and implementing clinical, academic, and community-based health promotion and prevention programs; as well as working with vulnerable populations and speaking about diversity locally and abroad. She served as the Principal Investigator for the Aim 2 Care Multiple Chronic Conditions training grant, Bridges to the Doctorate and Song Brown Student Success grants.

She has won numerous prestigious awards for her accomplishments and contributions to improve clinical practices, inpatient and community health outcomes, and academia success and was awarded Congressional Recognition for Outstanding Community Service by the California State Senate and United States Congress. In 2014, she was given the prestigious honor of induction into the Inaugural Leadership Hall of Fame, Sigma Theta Tau International, Honor Society of Nursing, Alpha Eta Chapter (UCSF).

:: Dr. Evers-Manly is an internationally recognized expert in oncology and health disparities throughout the life span. She has made significant contributions in advocating to eliminate health disparities and inequities throughout the world. She gives voice to those who feel they have no voice.

Dr. Evers-Manly's understanding of underserved populations brings a humanistic approach to strategic, safe, high quality and cost-effective healthcare-she has leadership assets and skills from which the health care arena will benefit.

For her significant contributions in the areas of service, scholarship, community, and leadership, she was inducted as a fellow in the American Academy of Nursing, which was established to serve the general public and nursing profession by advancing health policy and practice through the generation, synthesis and dissemination of nursing knowledge. Dr. Evers-Manly is on faculty at the University of California, San Francisco, School of Nursing, is a former Regional Chair for Sigma Theta Tau International Nursing Honor society where 26 nursing honor society chapters reported to her. Currently she serves as member of the National Black Nurses Association and is the Chair of the Association's Ad hoc Committee on the Global Health.

:: Dr. Denese Shervington has an intersectional career in public health and academic psychiatry. She is the Chair of Psychiatry and Professor at Charles R. Drew University. Dr. Shervington has held Clinical Professorships in the Departments of Psychiatry at Columbia University and Tulane University. A graduate of New York University School of Medicine, she also received a Masters of Public Health in Population Studies and Family Planning from Tulane University School of Public Health. She completed her residency in Psychiatry at the University of California San Francisco and is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. A Fellow of the American Psychiatry Association (APA) she is a recipient of the APA's Award for Excellence in Service and Advocacy; prior to which she received the Jeanne Spurlock Minority award. Dr. Shervington is also a member of the American College of Psychiatrists and serves on the Psychiatry Resident-In-Training Commission. Dr. Shervington has testified before the United States Congress on Childhood Trauma and co-chaired the New Orleans City Council Taskforce on Childhood Trauma. She is a member of the Scientific Board of the Centre for Society and Mental Health at Kings College, London. Dr. Shervington has authored several papers in peer-reviewed journals addressing health disparities, the social determinants of health and resilience in underserved communities.

Dr. Shervington is the author of Healing Is the Revolution, a guide to healing from historical, intergenerational, interpersonal and community trauma. She also hosts the podcast Healing is the Revolution in which her guests share and explore their healing journey through their traumas. She is the proud parent of two amazing children - Iman and Kaleb, and three grandchildren - Ayelet, Haddassah, and Yoav.

:: Dr. Clyde E. Glenn is a native of Cleveland, MS. He graduated from Alcorn State University and completed his medical school education at The University of Iowa College of Medicine in 1990. He completed residency training in Psychiatry at The Ohio State University in 1994 and is Board Certified in Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Glenn is the founder and proprietor of Rehoboth Psychiatric Services in Ridgeland, MS. He has over 30 years of experience of psychiatric practice in both outpatient and inpatient settings and treats children and adults across the spectrum of psychiatric disorders. He is president of the Essie B. and William Earl Glenn Family Foundation and the ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) Awareness Foundation of Mississippi.

:: Dr. Stephanie A. Patterson, JD, DNP, MBA, MPA, MSN, RN-BC, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, PHN, is a Lifetime Member of the Council of Black Nurses-Los Angeles, a chapter of the National Black Nurses Association (NBNA), Inc. She is a practicing healthcare provider in California and a nurse scholar with a passion for providing high-quality, appropriate, patient-centered psychiatric care to clients who are from traditionally underserved and/or historically marginalized communities.

As a nurse leader, Dr. Patterson serves on the NBNA Ad Hoc Collaborative Committee on Mentorship, a program aimed at helping NBNA nurses/student nurses at various levels of their development. She enjoys mentoring nursing students through the NBNA Collaborative Mentorship Program, for the purpose of increasing the number of BIPOC nurses in the workforce.

Her long history of academic achievements, community-based accomplishments, as well as a demonstrated history of excellence in the clinical setting while improving client outcomes, makes her stand out. A highlight of some of the awards Dr. Patterson has received in the recent past include the 2022 Nurse Practitioner of the Year Award (San Francisco Bay Area), 2017 Millennial Nurse of the Year Award, 2016 NBNA Under 40 Award, and the 2015 NBNA Student Nurse of the Year Award. She also served as a Student Board Representative while enrolled in nursing school.

:: Tia Delaney, MSN-Ed, RN, CCM Born in Boston, MA, Tia currently holds a master's degree in nursing with an emphasis in education and

is a certified clinical case manager. As a registered nurse, with over 28 years in the healthcare industry, and having previous roles within those organizations as Director of Patient Care Services, Chief Operating Officer, and Administrator, Tia has overseen the various facets required to deliver quality and competent clinical care to thousands of home health, palliative, hospice, and hospital-based clients. With a focus on the baby-boom and geriatric population, she understands the current healthcare plight America is facing and remains a passionate and dedicated advocate for the enhancement of healthcare services to the frail, vulnerable, and elderly members within the community.

Her direct observation of the healthcare inequities, social determinants of health, and lack of clinician diversity within the Los Angeles population that she served, has led her to collaborate with various organizations to design policies, procedures, regulations, and resources, to improve the health-related outcomes of the marginalized and underserved. Innovation, leadership, and initiative are just a few of the qualities that define her work-ethic.

As Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for the Alzheimer's Association, her goals are to cultivate relationships with diverse communities which includes sharing time, talent, resources, and exchanging ideas to ensure neutrally fair access to opportunities, resources, and fiscal support. Additionally, she oversees the organization's mission of creating and maintaining a culture of inclusivity to its diverse constituents and ensure interests and needs are welcomed and fully considered within its multiple communication platforms, mission activities, and business practices. As a commitment to paying it forward, Tia is a clinical instructor teaching both theory and clinical skills to our nation's future nurses. Additionally, she volunteers her time providing community-based health & wellness seminars which focus on providing education and resources to empower others in areas such as chronic disease management, preventative care, and holistic-health awareness.

:: Dr. Pedro E. Morante DNP, LNC, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, NP-C, GERO-BC, MEDSURG-BC, PMH-BC, is a mental health advocate and a dual board certified as Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Brain Health USA and Assistant Professor in the School of Nursing. He holds a Doctorate of Nursing Practice with subspecialty of PMHNP from Brandman University. He graduated from Charles R. Drew University with his MSN focusing on Family Nurse Practitioner track. He is also a dual board certified through AANP and American Nurses Credentialing Center as a FNP as well as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) through ANCC.

Dr. Morante has cared for adolescent and adult patients in a variety of settings, including in-patient hospitals, community group homes, and out-patient practices. He has dedicated much of her nursing career to working with individuals with geriatric and psychiatry across lifespan.

Dr. Morante specializes in behavioral health and treating adults with i complex medical and behavioral conditions. In addition, he is the CEO of Morante and Associates Training Center. As both a clinical practitioner and professor, he has gained extensive experience delivering telehealth services to patients and educating nurse practitioners on using telehealth to improve access to care.

SPONSORS

* Alcorn State University School of Nursing

* BlackDoctor.org

* All Health Care Imani's

* National Black Nurses Association

* The Council of Black Nurses, Los Angeles

* Morante Associates Training Center

* The Glenn Foundation

The Black Hollywood Education Resource Center (BHERC) is proud to welcome an incredible lineup of Films, Filmmakers and Healthcare Professionals to the stage of speakers for our 28th Annual Film Festival and First Annual Health Conference: "SUPLLEMENTALLY": Mastering Mental and Brain Health After the Pandemic Across the Globe: Recovery, Healing, Hope, Reimage, taking place August 27, 2022, Cinemark 18 & XD, 6081 Center Drive, Los Angeles and virtually.

Related link: https://bherc.org/

New Children’s Book Embraces the Bond of Parents and Child Through Life and Death

WASHINGTON, D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- With an aim to help families begin to heal after the terrible loss of a child, "ScootieToots and the Feathers From Heaven: A Family Healing Book" (ISBN: 978-0228866862) by Audri B. Cabness is a whimsical children's story with a powerful message that offers families an uplifting vantage point, at any point in their healing process, from which they are given the opportunity to begin to pivot from despair to serenity.

"A child's death is every parent's nightmare to say the least. But the siblings, grandparents, family and friends are also greatly impacted by that tremendous loss," says Cabness when asked why she wrote the book. "Often, they don't know what to say or how to feel. They may struggle with comforting the parents. The parents themselves may battle, not only with grief, but guilt. And the remaining children are just left devastated by the sudden loss of their sibling, cousin or friend.

"As a mother of a child who was taken too soon after birth, I wrote 'ScootieToots and the Feathers From Heaven' to offer hope to the grieving by allowing the reader to rest in the fact that their beloved child is no longer in pain, and will never experience suffering again."

Woven throughout this touching tale are biblical passages upon which the reader may reflect and find solace, and is meant for adults and children alike.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

AUDRI B. CABNESS is an author from the United States, and is also the founder of The Sebastiens Smile Foundation. In 2016, Ms. Cabness endured the pain associated with the loss of her beloved infant son, in whose honor the book was written. She conceived of the foundation as a way to help others navigate complex systems with which they might interact following the death of an infant. To learn more, visit https://www.sebastienssmilefoundation.org/.

"ScootieToots and the Feathers From Heaven: A Family Healing Book" is now out through Tellwell Publishing (RRP $20) and available through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and more.

BOOK SUMMARY:

Author: Audri Cabness

Genre: FICTION / CHILDREN'S

Released: JUNE 2022

PAPERBACK ISBN-13: 9780228866862

HARDCOVER ISBN-13: 9780228866879

Publisher: Tellwell Talent ( https://tellwell.ca/).

With an aim to help families begin to heal after the terrible loss of a child, "ScootieToots and the Feathers From Heaven: A Family Healing Book" (ISBN: 978-0228866862) by Audri B. Cabness is a whimsical children's story with a powerful message that offers families an uplifting vantage point, at any point in their healing process, from which they are given the opportunity to begin to pivot from despair to serenity.

Teen Social Entrepreneur Michael C. Platt’s Cookbook ‘Michaels Desserts’ to Launch Our Tomorrow Series, Fall 2022

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Sixteen-year-old social entrepreneur Michael C. Platt's highly anticipated cookbook "Michaels Desserts" (Mixed Media Resources; Paperback/eBook; On Sale: Nov. 1, 2022; $19.95; ISBN: 978-1684620470) will be the first title in the Our Tomorrow series published by Mixed Media Resources LLC. The food justice advocate will make his literary debut as the first of four authors in a groundbreaking series created to amplify the voices of teen activists using their gifts to make the world a better place.

At nine years old, Michael C. Platt's life changed dramatically after learning he had a disability...and fell in love with baking. In his cookbook, Michael tells the incredible story of how discovering baking helped him manage epileptic seizures. Featured on season 4 of "Kids Baking Championship" on Food Network, Michael remains one of the premier teen bakers in the country and turned his passion for dishing out delectable sweets into a business and charity. In "Michaels Desserts," his big heart is on full display as he shares the inspiration behind his advocacy to end food insecurity and gives tips for how to ensure people have access to food in their communities.

With stunning photography throughout, "Michaels Desserts" features over 44 easy-to-do, step-by-step recipes, including Michael's signature Freedom Fighter Cupcakes, named after notable historical figures. A fun and accessible cookbook, perfect for kids learning how to bake or anyone who wants to discover exciting and delicious dessert recipes.

Michael has been featured in the Capital Gazette, WUSA9 news, CBS News, PGCTV News, TEDx Talks, Good Morning America, CNN, Washington Post, People.com, Guideposts, and more.

The Our Tomorrow book series is geared toward middle school readers, assembles a diverse lineup of bright young social entrepreneurs, global community leaders, and activists who share their inspirational stories and provide concrete ideas for solving today's challenges for the promise of a better tomorrow.

Distributed by Union Square Books. Publicity is in partnership with The Oracle Group International. "Consciously founded, The Oracle Group International creates opportunities to celebrate diverse voices and empower future writers and literary activists to use 'the power of the pen,'" says CEO Mocha Ochoa. "I am honored to partner with the Our Tomorrow series to assist in the building and implementation of this new initiative." Upcoming releases include "Books N Bros" by Sidney Keys III and "Kindness Is My Hobby" by Ruby Kate Chitsey.

Learn more about the Our Tomorrow series (website under construction): http://www.ourtomorrowbooks.com/

About Mixed Media Resources LLC:

Mixed Media Resources LLC is an industry leader in the world of craft and DIY books, publishing widely distributed book and booklet titles in knitting, crochet, drawing, adult coloring, and cartooning. In 2022, MMR created Our Tomorrow, an inspirational book series geared toward middle schoolers and written by teen activists who are actively engaged in bringing positive change to the world.

About The Oracle Group International:

The Oracle Group International is a globally recognized literary public relations and marketing agency that specializes in producing events that promote literacy. Our primary focus is to connect authors with events that engage and uplift the local, national, and global community. Learn more: https://theoraclegroupinc.co/

Sixteen-year-old social entrepreneur Michael C. Platt's highly anticipated cookbook "Michaels Desserts" (Mixed Media Resources; Paperback/eBook; On Sale: Nov. 1, 2022; $19.95; ISBN: 978-1684620470) will be the first title in the Our Tomorrow series published by Mixed Media Resources LLC. The food justice advocate will make his literary debut as the first of four authors in a groundbreaking series created to amplify the voices of teen activists using their gifts to make the world a better place.

Related link: https://theoraclegroupinc.co/

Danielle Alura Crowned Miss Global USA 2023

ORLANDO, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Last weekend, Danielle Alura of Miami was crowned Miss Global USA 2023 in Orlando, Florida. She will go on to compete on the world stage representing the USA for the chance to win the title of Miss Global 2023. She had interviewed for Miss Florida Global USA this year and earned the state title before competing in the 2023 Miss Global USA pageant. She also won the highest point awards in talent, swim and gown competitions at the national pageant.

Danielle Alura is a major philanthropist, model, actress and singer. Her charity of choice is Family Promise of which she has helped rehouse more than 350 families since volunteering and raising funds for the charity at 14 years old.

Throughout pageant week, there were also several runway shows with designers from all over the country. Each designer showcased their creations casting models from the contestant line up and the stand out models were booked for campaigns and runway shows through the coming year. The Miss Global USA pageant prides themself with creating many opportunities beyond pageantry for those that participate.

Here is the complete runner up list of the Miss Global USA 2023 pageant:

* 1st runner-up: Raquel Basco (California)

* 2nd runner-up Kianna Harris (New Jersey)

* 3rd runner-up: Ashley Fano (Central Florida)

* 4th runner-up: Erika Ann (North Carolina)

What's next for Danielle Alura is the world stage; the Miss Global 2023 Pageant is set to take place next year with a location to be determined. The three-pillar mantra of the Miss Global Organization is: "Empowering women, Embracing Cultures and Embodying the beauty within."

The deserving winner of the world title reigns for one year and graces the cover of Harper's Bazaar Magazine amongst many other life changing opportunities.

Contact Suzi Hozefeld, Miss Global USA pageants, Email: MissGlobalUSApageants@gmail.com for more information on competing at the state level for the chance to win the national title.

The Miss Florida Global USA state pageant will be held in Orlando on Nov. 18-20, 2022 and registration is still open for any ladies not married, may have children and are between the ages of 18-35 years!

Learn more about Danielle Alura at: https://www.daniellealura.com/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/FvLOb-DJMzk

PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/22-0715-s2p-Danielle-Alura-300dpi.jpg

Photo caption: Danielle Alura crowned Miss Global USA 2023.

FOLLOW Danielle Alura on social at:

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

Facebook: https://www.Facebook.com/missglobalunitedstates

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

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxx_MLjOVvEHfQQqkcmohTg

Twitter Tags: #missglobalusa #missglobalusa2023 #daniellealura #missglobal2023 @daniellealura @missglobal

Last weekend, Danielle Alura of Miami was crowned Miss Global USA 2023 in Orlando, Florida. She will go on to compete on the world stage representing the USA for the chance to win the title of Miss Global 2023. She had interviewed for Miss Florida Global USA this year and earned the state title before competing in the 2023 Miss Global USA pageant.

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

Californian Traveled to Poland to Interview Ukrainian Soldiers and Refugees and Animated their Stories

SAN JOSE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Kipp Berdiansky, a 57-year-old engineer from Silicon Valley, traveled to Poland in May to interview Ukrainian soldiers and refugees. He subsequently had Ukrainian illustrators, animators and voice-over freelancers animate the story for a new YouTube channel called "Heroes of War."

The purpose of this YouTube Channel is to highlight the Ukrainian War from the point of view of regular civilians and soldiers.

Russian cruelty and Ukrainian lives disrupted are the general themes of these stories.

"I cried every day. I would look into the eyes of the refugees, they would tell their stories and cry, and then I would cry. It was draining," says Berdiansky.

The YouTube channel was just created 7/15/2022 and two new videos are planned to be released every week.

View the channel at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Wy6sE5NlEJkNdsPMaKHhQ

All stories have a blend of live interview video interspersed with animation. The narration of the interview is consistent throughout the entire video.

If an interview with Kipp Berdiansky (and the Ukrainian content providers, or interviewed subjects) is of interest, please contact him directly.

MEDIA ONLY CONTACT:
Kipp Berdiansky
Heroesofwar22 @ gmail.com

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO (YouTube): "Ukrainian Marine Firefight in Mariupol" -- https://youtu.be/w6-kq7Gvte8

Kipp Berdiansky, a 57-year-old engineer from Silicon Valley, traveled to Poland in May to interview Ukrainian soldiers and refugees. He subsequently had Ukrainian illustrators, animators and voice-over freelancers animate the story for a new YouTube channel called "Heroes of War."

2nd Annual United Diversity Business Summit Announced Sept. 14 to Improve Economic Diversity Outcomes

PHOENIX, Ariz. /ScoopCloud/ -- Building on the success of 2021 "United Diversity Business Summit Day," which included a special proclamation from Scottsdale Mayor David D. Ortega, the second annual United Diversity Business Summit will be held on Sept. 14, 2022. Presented by Thinkzilla Consulting Group and the City of Scottsdale, the summit will engage business and community leaders in efforts to create more diverse and inclusive outcomes.

The Summit will feature keynote speakers, substantive breakout sessions, business opportunity exchange, networking opportunities, and insightful resources for the business community. Presentations are targeted toward businesses with well-developed Diversity and Inclusion programs and those without current efforts but who want to engage.

In addition, leading professionals will spearhead break-out sessions and training workshops covering various topics and industries. With the aim of moving 100 or more companies forward and expanding fast-growing diverse small businesses, the 2022 United Diversity Business Summit will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts Center with a theme of "Enhancing the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem through Diversity, Community and Innovation."

"This summit brings us closer to our aim of a diverse business community where everyone's ideas can flourish," said the CEO of Thinkzilla Consulting, Dr. Velma Trayham. "My hope is that this summit empowers attendees to share valuable resources and best practices in DEI and leadership with their organizations, coworkers, managers, and senior leaders."

Attendees will hear from more than 25 Speakers to improve economic diversity outcomes for both organizations and entrepreneurs. This year's summit will host two tracks: Track 1 is designed for public and private companies seeking to increase diversity outcomes, and Track 2 incorporates business development programs to attract and grow the small business community. Workshop topics will include using disruption to advance business strategy, strengthening supplier diversity, inclusive decision-making, funding opportunities, women empowerment, and more.

Early-bird registration now available at https://uniteddiversitybusinesssummit.com/

Speakers for the 2022 summit include David Ortega, Mayor of Scottsdale; Dr. Jackie Johnson, Diversity Director for the City of Scottsdale; Rob Millar, Economic Development Director for the City of Scottsdale; Art Hamilton, founder of the Art Hamilton Group; Danny Seiden, President, and CEO of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Cloves Campbell, co-publisher of the Arizona Informant; Eric Standifer, President, and CEO of Blaylock Van and more to be announced.

Limited Sponsorship opportunities are available by contacting: Thinkzilla Consulting Group - 480.572.1838.

About the City of Scottsdale:

Scottsdale is one of the state's leading job centers, with a diverse economy built on medical research, high-tech innovation, tourism, and corporate headquarters. Scottsdale is home to nearly 18,000 businesses supplying over 150,000 jobs. The high-tech innovation center SkySong, located just a few miles from Downtown, is designed to help companies grow through a unique partnership with nearby Arizona State University. For more information, visit https://www.choosescottsdale.com/.

About Thinkzilla Consulting Group:

ThinkZILLA specializes in DE&I Consulting, digital engagement, and program development. Making brands more relevant, ThinkZILLA builds meaningful connections between brands and consumers. For more information on ThinkZILLA or to schedule a consultation, please visit https://thinkzillaconsulting.com/.

Building on the success of 2021 "United Diversity Business Summit Day," which included a special proclamation from Scottsdale Mayor David D. Ortega, the second annual United Diversity Business Summit will be held on Sept. 14, 2022. Presented by Thinkzilla Consulting Group and the City of Scottsdale, the summit will engage business and community leaders in efforts to create more diverse and inclusive outcomes.

Related link: https://thinkzillaconsulting.com/

Marching on DeSantis for Abortion Rights: Large March Planned Ahead of Florida Supreme Court Decision on 15 Week Ban

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Pro-choice protestors are taking to the capitol on August 27, 2022, ahead of the anticipated Florida Supreme Court Ruling on the 15-week abortion ban. Bans Off Our Bodies Florida, is planning to show DeSantis, and the Supreme Court Justices, that upholding this new law is an assault on equality, health, privacy and the constitution of Florida.

"The Florida Constitution clearly states, 'Every natural person has the right to be let alone and free from governmental intrusion into the person's private life.' I don't know how it could be any clearer that this means for the government to stay out of my reproductive rights," says Laura Lippo, one of the organizers of the event. "Although the U.S. Supreme Court assertively wrong in their interpretation of our rights under the 14th Amendment in the U.S Constitution, there is no ambivalence with Florida's."

So far, Florida courts have respected and upheld the privacy of Floridians from governmental intrusion; however, with a court that is stacked in DeSantis's favor, it is possible that could change.

"Just because you are able to assign people to a court with your belief system, doesn't make that belief system legal," Laura said. "DeSantis has created an assault on Floridians rights that will end in the ballot box."

The event will start with speakers followed by a peaceful march.

"DeSantis is waging this war against us," Nicole Richards, co-organizer of the event said. "On August 27th we are showing up with our presence and voice as our weapons. We will not be ignored."

Bans Off Our Bodies Florida is a campaign led by abortion rights supporters. It is a movement for reproductive rights and healthcare with rallies across the state which are intended to send a message loud and clear: All people deserve access to abortions when they need it and in the communities they live in.

LEARN MORE:

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/bansoffourbodiesflorida/

FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1056758318558916/?ref=share_group_link

Event page: https://fb.me/e/2CCBBPrFP

Instagram https://instagram.com/bansoffflorida?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

Pro-choice protestors are taking to the capitol on August 27, 2022, ahead of the anticipated Florida Supreme Court Ruling on the 15-week abortion ban. Bans Off Our Bodies Florida, is planning to show DeSantis, and the Supreme Court Justices, that upholding this new law is an assault on equality, health, privacy and the constitution of Florida.

Black Maternal Mental Health Week Begins July 19 – Shades of Blue Project will host a week-long event

HOUSTON, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- Black maternal morbidity is on the rise and the numbers are higher than originally reported. According to a study by the Maryland Population Research Center at the University of Maryland, Black mothers are 3.5 times more likely to experience death by pregnancy. Kay Matthews, founder of The Shades of Blue Project and Black Maternal Mental Health Week says the mental health of Black mothers is also a factor in the significantly higher numbers.

The Shades of Blue Project is hosting a week-long event focused on Black maternal mental health and will launch with a press conference and balloon release on Tuesday, July 19, 2022 at Houston's City Hall - Hermann Square Park from 4 to 8 P.M.

Black Maternal Mental Health Week will be held July 19 through July 25 and includes an in-person training session, a two-day summit, a community awards brunch, a walk and family fun day, and ends with a State of Black Maternal Mental Health Roundtable discussion.

"We have many issues in our city around mortality and morbidity and its ties to postpartum mental health complications," Matthews stated. "We've always had a problem, but what will we do to solve it?" she asked.

Matthews and her collaborative partner, Kimberly A. Baker, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Health Promotion & Behavioral Science, say they know that it will take "education, awareness, and action" to finally see a decrease in Black maternal morbidity.

The two-day hybrid summit will be held July 21-22, 2022 and Matthews and Baker are excited the event is back in person and for the continued virtual component. Matthews grinned, "I'm excited to see people excited about it being in person."

This year's summit includes local, national, and international speakers. A partial list of speakers and topics include:

* Nathalie Walton of Expectful; Innovation in Maternal Mental Health

* Titi Otunla, of Texas Children's Pavilion for Women, a Nurse-Midwife and Carla Ortique, MD of The Women's Specialist of Houston at Texas Children's Hospital; Let's Talk: Addressing What's Killing Black Women Giving Birth (OBGYN & Midwives)

* Marquita Stray of Imani's Light; A Deafening Silence - The Intersection of Black Birthing People, Perinatal Loss, and Disenfranchised Grief

* Zainab "Zee" Sulaman of Health Connect One; Maternal Mental Health in our Community

* Omari Maynard of The ARIAH Foundation, Kenn Harris of National Institute for Children's Health Quality; and Shaugnn Thomas of Invest in Yourself; Fatherhood in the Black Community

This is the organization's fourth year hosting Black Maternal Mental Health Week and Matthews hopes the project is short-lived. "My goal is to no longer have a Black Maternal Mental Health Week 10 years from now," she said. Matthew hopes that through continued awareness, understanding, and action taken by her organization and community partners, that there won't be a need for the event. "But until we reach that point, we'll continue to be here and show up," she affirmed.

For registration, complete list of speakers, and full description of activities, please visit: https://www.shadesofblueproject.org/black-maternal-mh-week.

About The Shades of Blue Project:

The Shades of Blue Project is a Houston-based nonprofit organization with a continued focus on improving the maternal mental health outcomes for black and brown birthing people. The Shades of Blue Project recently opened a Maternal and Mental Health Resource Center located in North Houston. The center offers social support services, job placement skills, onsite therapy sessions, support groups, and many more dedicated services to benefit the community.

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

VIDEO (Vimeo): https://vimeo.com/717262737/d740eb86ed

Black maternal morbidity is on the rise and the numbers are higher than originally reported. According to a study by the Maryland Population Research Center at the University of Maryland, Black mothers are 3.5 times more likely to experience death by pregnancy. Kay Matthews, founder of The Shades of Blue Project and Black Maternal Mental Health Week says the mental health of Black mothers is also a factor in the significantly higher numbers.

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

Gray Brothers Wildlife LLC Releases Bat Guide Providing Connecticut Homeowners with Knowledge to Identify Possible Bat Infestations

NORWALK, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Gray Brothers Wildlife LLC announced today they released a guide on their website that will help homeowners identify any signs of bat problems or infestations within a home. The guide is called: "How Do I Know If I Have Bats in My Home? 9 Signs You Might Have a Bat Problem."

"Bats are very quiet compared to most pests that can enter your home and because they are more likely to be active in the evening hours, you will have to go through our list to confirm any suspicions if you are sharing your home with bats," says Eric Gray, Owner, Gray Brothers Wildlife LLC.

Gray adds, "There are nine bat species native to Connecticut, including brown bats, the eastern red, silver-haired, and hoary bats. Bats in Connecticut tend to nest in trees but will often end up in sheds, gutters and attics."

Your Hearing Sounds from Your Attic and Walls

Mice and raccoons typically make a lot of noise inside walls and attics, but you can also hear when a bat is flying around inside. Bats that are stuck in an attic or wall can fly around at all hours of the day and night, even though they are nocturnal. Bats stuck in small spaces can make the noises sound louder. If bats happen to live in your attic, you may hear scratching along the walls as they move throughout the space.

It's important to listen for any noises from your attic, this could indicate a bat infestation or another wildlife problem.

Entry Points

Bats use the same one or two entry points to access your attic and this will most likely be found along near your roof. Wall vents, gable vents or loose eaves or siding can be entry points as well. Most of the time you will be able to see it from the exterior of your home. Bats tend to leave a greasy film close to the access point, especially on a lighter color siding.

Droppings

Bats that reside in an attic will often relieve themselves as they squeeze through the opening, this will look dark, spotted, oily or streaky. Look along your eaves and siding to any potential opening when walking around your home.

Visual confirmation

Bats are active in the evening and at night, the best time to confirm the presence of bats in your home is to see them leaving. If you notice an entry point or droppings, wait outside in the evening, and keep an eye out in that area. If you have a bat issue you will most likely see them entering and exiting at this time.

Feeding Roosts

Bats can have several roosts, which they typically use for sleeping and eating. These roosts can often be close together, especially in an attic. Feeding roosts are the easiest to spot as there will be droppings under these roosts as the bats will digest their meals.

Mating

Bat mating season starts in the summer and continues into the fall. This is the most active time of year for bats as they will become more active and fly together or in groups. During mating season, it is also possible to see bats out during the daytime.

Scratch Marks

Bats will leave scratch marks on the surfaces they perch to, which will become noticeable, especially on wood surfaces or drywall. This could also indicate another problem with mice or wildlife, it is important to have a professional check out if you find scratch marks.

Brown Stains on Your Ceiling

If you have many bats in your attic or they have resided for a long time, it is possible that bat urine and excrement can leak into the sheetrock, and you will start seeing brown stains on your ceiling that are similar to a water leak.

Strong Smell in Your Attic

If you are in your attic and notice a very strong ammonia smell, this could be caused by a buildup of bat urine and lack of ventilation. Even if the ammonia smell is subtle, it could indicate that a bat or other animal is urinating in your attic.

If You Have Found Bats in The Attic

Now that you have figured out what signs to look for, you know if you might have bats living in your home. If you do, you are probably wondering how you can get rid of them safely. Gray Brothers can inspect the area and determine if they can remove the animal. Some bat species are protected by the law in Connecticut, they cannot be killed if they are found in your home. Gray Brothers Wildlife are the bat professionals in Connecticut and will quickly and humanely remove any bats found in your home.

LEARN MORE: https://www.graybrotherswildlife.com/

Gray Brothers Wildlife LLC announced today they released a guide on their website that will help homeowners identify any signs of bat problems or infestations within a home. The guide is called: "How Do I Know If I Have Bats in My Home? 9 Signs You Might Have a Bat Problem."

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

Bans Off Our Bodies Florida announces Independence Day Boycott from Roe v Wade Decision

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Local and national pro-choice groups have declared that since women are rapidly losing the freedom to control their own bodies, Independence Day has struck a new chord this year... with a spending strike. Bans Off Our Bodies in Florida is calling for a complete strike of all retail goods from July 2 until the completion of July 4, 2022. Since women have 85% control over consumer spending according to Forbes, the impact could be huge.

"We're looking to show Florida and the country that the impact of controlling women's bodies will have far-reaching consequences," said Laura Lippo, one of the event organizers, "Today, women control more than $10 trillion of total U.S. household financial assets according to CNBC. I hope we send the message that if the government tries to control our bodies, we will leverage our spending power to affect the economy of this country."

Americans are estimated to spend 7.52 billion dollars over the holiday weekend; Bans Off Our Bodies is calling for a total freeze-out of this spending. "Whether it's fireworks or food, gas or clothes, don't do it! Don't spend a dime," Co-organizer Alicia Caple says, "We will be seen. We will be heard."

Event info: https://facebook.com/events/s/independence-day-boycott/763275934854040/

Group info: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1056758318558916/

Local and national pro-choice groups have declared that since women are rapidly losing the freedom to control their own bodies, Independence Day has struck a new chord this year... with a spending strike. Bans Off Our Bodies in Florida is calling for a complete strike of all retail goods from July 2 until the completion of July 4, 2022.

The Obsidian WROTE Collection and Black Writers Workspace Launch Writing Competition for Black Creators

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Black writers, bloggers, journalists, poets, songwriters, and screenwriters now have a place to showcase their work, find writing jobs, win cash prizes, and collaborate with peers. The Black Writers Collaborative, a new literary competition designed to empower writers with a flair for crafting culture-infused works of art, is the latest brainchild of The Obsidian WROTE Collection, a Chicago-based content marketing platform designed to connect Black writers to top industry brands looking to amplify African American voices, and the Black Writers Workspace, a New Orleans-based online community of over 13,000 new and independent writers.

To register, visit https://bit.ly/BCCWROTE.

"Black writers are telling the stories of this time in history," said Michelle D. Jackson, author, and founder of the Black Writers Workspace. "Not only are we historians; we are lyrists, playwrights, authors, reporters, and poets committed to sharing our life experiences with the world, our way. The Collaborative gives voice to writers who never felt our stories mattered and now appreciates the growing marketplace for our craft."

Known in many circles as the Black writer's 'LinkedIn,' the Obsidian WROTE hopes to utilize the Collaborative to build a pipeline of qualified writers by inspiring participants to create a free profile and share their work on the platform.

"It's time for Black writers to reclaim our narrative and reshape the Black experience," said Angela Ford, Founder and Executive Director of The Obsidian Collection Archives. "WROTE is a marketplace that connects brands, media outlets, and agencies with Black voices with the hope that they can profit from their stories. That's why our partnership with the Collaborative provides an opportunity for more Black voices to be highlighted and heard."

To participate, writers must create an Obsidian WROTE profile and submit a 5-8-page response to the following writing prompt: What Black leader or literary legend inspired me the most? Or writers can submit 5-8 pages of any culture-infused written work of art. Submissions can be a fictional or non-fictional narrative, screenplay, song, or journalistic article. There is no fee to participate. To register, visit https://bit.ly/BCCWROTE. The deadline is August 15, 2022.

The top winner will receive $500 cash, access to The Obsidian Collection of Black media images, and a Black Writers Workspace promotional package worth over $750. The second and third place winners will receive $250 and $150 cash and a Black Writers Workspace promotional package.

To learn more, visit the website or email Michelle Jackson at events@prsolutionsllc.org.

To join the Black Writers Workspace, follow the group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/blackwritersworkspace

MEDIA CONTACT: marketing@prsolutionsllc.org.

RELATED LINKS:

https://www.theobsidiancollection.org/

Black writers, bloggers, journalists, poets, songwriters, and screenwriters now have a place to showcase their work, find writing jobs, win cash prizes, and collaborate with peers. The Black Writers Collaborative, a new literary competition designed to empower writers with a flair for crafting culture-infused works of art, is the latest brainchild of The Obsidian WROTE Collection, and the Black Writers Workspace.

A New Plus-size Dating App – PlusCupid Got 500,000+ Downloads in App Store Within 3 Months

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- PlusCupid is a new dating app designed for plus-size people that launched 3 months ago. Nonetheless, it got more than 500,000 downloads on the United States App Store after its first release. Why can a dating app for plus-size singles to chat and date grow so fast? Perhaps because of these days, more and more plus-size people expect to have more opportunities to show their beauty and find their circle, friends, and partners.

Last Wednesday, a celebrated plus-size model, Tabria Majors, gained extraordinary attention in the CONFIDENCE CAMPAIGN SS22 launched by Mate Collection, a famous fashion and swimwear brand in Atlanta, Georgia.

Founder and Designer of Matte Collection, Justina says, "it's all about allowing women to be beautiful because they deserve it - regardless of skin color, shape or size." PlusCupid strongly agrees with her opinion that every woman is worth being appealing and feeling loved no matter her shape, size, or style. Thus, PlusCupid is committed to helping more plus-size people find themselves lifestyles, including dating life.

Guided by that belief, the PlusCupid team is straining every nerve to provide a safe and comfortable dating community for plus-size people. PlusCupid reviews each registered user profile by AI tech, and they manually block bots and scammers to protect the users. They have four ways of verification to ensure all the profiles are real people. They have new users from New York, Los Angeles, and other cities in the United States and other countries every day since the users notice that this app has fewer scammers and rude users. PlusCupid bans any user who sends rude messages or posts disgusting pictures in the community. Furthermore, the intelligent match algorithm can make it easy for users to get matches and start chatting.

The PlusCupid team members all support the plus-size people and devote themselves to improving the plus-size people's social status. "We think it's valuable and can be helpful to realize human equality, and we are passionate to devote ourselves to putting this belief into practice," said one staff of the PlusCupid team.

PlusCupid is now available on both Google Play and App Store.

* https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.curvydating.pluscupid

* https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-store/id1593154934

About PlusCupid:

PlusCupid belongs to the Orange View LTD., founded in 2019. It designs for plus-size singles where you can find new friends and meet a date. In addition, it is also an inclusive lifestyle choice for curvy people to feel loved and confident. We have over 300,000 members globally, especially in the United States and the United Kingdom. https://www.soulmatestring.com/

PlusCupid is a new dating app designed for plus-size people that launched 3 months ago. Nonetheless, it got more than 500,000 downloads on the United States App Store after its first release. Why can a dating app for plus-size singles to chat and date grow so fast? Perhaps because of these days, more and more plus-size people expect to have more opportunities to show their beauty and find their circle, friends, and partners.

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

‘Flip My Florida Yard’ TV Series is Casting 10 Lucky Homeowners for an Eco-Friendly Yard Makeover

LAKE MARY, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The television series, "Flip My Florida Yard" - with a 10-episode season of half-hour programs - aims to teach homeowners how to "flip" their yard from ordinary to extraordinary by employing natural, Florida-specific, water-conserving landscaping principles. Created by Crawford Entertainment in partnership with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the University of Florida IFAS Extension Florida-Friendly Landscaping Program, "Flip My Florida Yard" features design professionals transforming yards into attractive and sustainable home landscapes in just eight hours.

"Most Floridians don't know how to protect our natural resources. This series is set to show you how you can make a difference starting in your own yard," said Chad Crawford, Emmy Award-winning creator and host of "Flip My Florida Yard." "The mission of this series is to show Florida homeowners how they can make minor changes in their landscaping routine that can add up and really help our state."

Homeowners can apply HERE by completing an application and creating a short video featuring their yard, family and story. The producers of "Flip My Florida Yard" will be selecting 10 lucky families from all over the state to participate in the show. Time is of the essence because the deadline to submit is Sunday, July 10, 2022 at midnight. (Apply here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/STLDDG7)

"When casting the families, we looked at geographic location, family dynamic, ethnic diversity and human-interest story angles - but most importantly we sought people who were interested in our show's mission who would be inspired to become passionate advocates for environmentally responsible landscaping," said Crawford.

Episodes are fast-paced, fun and informative, as experts explain the Florida-Friendly Landscaping principles that call for locating the right plant in the right place, attracting native wildlife, managing pests responsibly, watering efficiently, fertilizing appropriately and reducing stormwater runoff to protect Florida's lakes, rivers, streams, springs and the second-longest coastline in the United States.

Based at the University of Florida in Gainesville, Florida, and led by Esen Momol, director, the Florida-Friendly Landscaping Program is a 29-year partnership between UF/IFAS and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, which sponsors the TV series.

"We encourage Floridians of all ages to watch 'Flip My Florida Yard' and implement FFL principles in their landscapes," said Momol. "UF/IFAS Extension is located in all 67 counties around the state and is ready to help Floridians have more sustainable landscapes."

"Flip My Florida Yard" season 2 is set to premiere on July 24, 2022 on PBS in select Florida markets.

The show will be available for streaming via Roku on the Discover Florida Channel - https://www.discoverfloridachannel.com/.

For the broadcast schedule, visit https://www.flipmyfloridayard.com/. Consult local TV listings for exact times and dates.

About Crawford Entertainment:

Crawford Entertainment produces nationally syndicated television programs and Emmy Award-winning original television series including "How to Do Florida" and "The Outsiders Club." For more information, visit https://www.crawfordentertainment.tv/

About the Florida Department of Environmental Protection:

The FDEP is the state's principal environmental agency, created to protect, conserve and manage Florida's environment and natural resources. The department enforces federal and state environmental laws, protects Florida's air and water quality, cleans up pollution, regulates solid waste management, promotes pollution prevention and acquires environmentally sensitive lands for preservation. The agency also maintains a statewide system of parks, trails and aquatic preserves. Visit the department's website at https://floridadep.gov/

About the UF/IFAS Florida-Friendly Landscaping Program:

Florida-Friendly Landscaping (FFL) is the state of Florida's premier Extension program that promotes sustainable alternatives to "conventional" landscaping, providing guidance on low impact, environmentally friendly, science-based landscape practices that use less water and reduce pollutant loading to Florida waters. Since 1994, FFL has served Florida as a partnership between the University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Extension and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. https://ffl.ifas.ufl.edu/about-ffl/

VIDEO (VIMEO): https://vimeo.com/723368745

The television series, "Flip My Florida Yard" - with a 10-episode season of half-hour programs - aims to teach homeowners how to "flip" their yard from ordinary to extraordinary by employing natural, Florida-specific, water-conserving landscaping principles. Created by Crawford Entertainment in partnership with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the University of Florida IFAS Extension.

Related link: https://www.crawfordentertainment.tv/