Tag Archives: New Orleans Business

Move For Hunger Hosts Parade With A Purpose at Apartmentalize 2026

NEW ORLEANS, La., June 15, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Move For Hunger, a national nonprofit dedicated to reducing food waste and fighting hunger, will bring companies and communities from across the multifamily industry together for Parade With A Purpose, a Mardi Gras-style second line parade in New Orleans followed by a hands-on snack kit event benefiting local kids facing hunger.

Image caption: Parade with a Purpose, presented by Valet Living to benefit Move For Hunger, logo graphic.

The event will take place on Thursday, June 18 at 5 PM during Apartmentalize 2026, the National Apartment Association’s annual conference. Designed as a high-energy service opportunity, Parade With A Purpose gives attendees a meaningful way to connect with their teams, support the local community, and help provide meals for children and families in need.

“Parade With A Purpose brings the spirit of New Orleans together with the compassion and generosity of the multifamily industry,” said Adam Lowy, Founder and Executive Director of Move For Hunger. “It is a reminder that when people come together with purpose, even a parade can become a powerful way to fight hunger.”

The event is presented by Valet Living, with additional support from Updater, All My Sons Moving & Storage, and CSC ServiceWorks. Participating organizations include the Apartment Association of Greater New Orleans, Florida Apartment Association, Detroit Metropolitan Apartment Association, APTS of NY, Property Management Association of Mid Michigan (PMAMM), Delaware Apartment Association, The Michaels Organization, Grace Hill, National Exemption Service, Georgia Apartment Association, Washtenaw Area Apartment Association, and other industry leaders committed to making an impact beyond the conference floor.

“Valet Living is proud to support Parade With A Purpose and partner with Move For Hunger to help turn a major industry gathering into meaningful community impact,” said Matt Graves, President and COO at Valet Living. “The multifamily industry has a unique ability to bring people together, and this event is a powerful example of how connection, service, and a shared commitment to fighting hunger can make a difference for families in need.”

“At Move For Hunger, we believe every industry gathering is an opportunity to do good,” Lowy added. “We are grateful to our sponsors, partners, and every team joining us in New Orleans to help turn movement into meals for neighbors in need.”

Move For Hunger is inviting Apartmentalize attendees, companies, and community partners to join the parade, start a team, or make a donation in support of the event at https://moveforhunger.org/parade-with-a-purpose.

ABOUT MOVE FOR HUNGER

Move For Hunger is a national nonprofit organization that fights hunger and food waste by mobilizing the moving, relocation, and multifamily housing industries to rescue surplus food and deliver it to local food banks. Since 2009, Move For Hunger’s network has delivered more than 82 million pounds of food, providing more than 68 million meals to those in need across the U.S. and Canada. Learn more at https://moveforhunger.org/.

ABOUT VALET LIVING

For three decades, Valet Living has been the premier provider of the most used amenity services in the multifamily industry. The company delivers increased community asset value, reduced workload for on-site staff, and an enriching resident living experience. With industry-leading technology and more than 8,000 trusted associates, Valet Living serves more than 2 million apartment homes nationwide. Valet Living is a portfolio company of the private equity group GI Partners.

Logo link for media: https://moveforhunger.org/application/files/6115/8437/2062/MoveForHungerLogo_BlogFeaturedImage.jpg

NEWS SOURCE: Move For Hunger

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

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/move-for-hunger-hosts-parade-with-a-purpose-at-apartmentalize-2026/

AgingIN Hosts Executive Symposium Exploring the Future of Human-Centered Aging

ReImagining Care Models Conference in New Orleans, January 21 and 22, Open for Registration

NEW ORLEANS, La., Dec. 17, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — With skilled nursing margins tightening, reimbursement uncertainty rising, and older adults wanting more personalized settings, nursing home and senior living operators are reassessing which care models will sustain both mission and market viability intact. AgingIN invites elder care leaders to the ReImagining Care Models conference for dynamic discussions on person-directed living, workforce culture, and operational design.

Image caption: Join senior care leaders in New Orleans, January 21-22, 2026, for AgingIN’s ReImagining Care Models, an executive symposium focused on financially responsible decisions that shape what comes next.

“It is a timely moment for providers planning a repositioning or evaluating their next move in 2026,” said Susan Ryan, AgingIN CEO. “Whether you are exploring the future of skilled nursing, redesigning assisted living, or exploring a small house approach, we invite you to join AgingIN in New Orleans this January to gain the clarity and expertise to make confident, responsible decisions.”

DESIGNED FOR OPERATORS READY TO REPOSITION

Many skilled nursing providers are actively exploring how to realign their communities with today’s market realities. The symposium offers practical guidance from concept to execution, whether that means shifting the skilled nursing model, redesigning assisted living for higher acuity, or evaluating a small-house approach such as THE GREEN HOUSE® Project.

Participants will learn directly from nationally recognized experts in finance, design, small-house innovation, culture, and operations.

FEATURED SPEAKERS INCLUDE:

John Ponthie, Co-owner, Southern Administrative Services, the largest operator of Green House homes in the U.S.
Erin Kolb, CEO, Poydras Home, sharing the transformation journey that empowered residents and reimagined team roles
Cynthia Thurlow, President & CEO, 3rd3rd, brand marketing and culture strategist for senior living growth and repositioning
Michael Starke, President & CEO, PMD Advisory Services, a trusted expert in market feasibility, service planning, and strategic direction
Katelyn McCauley, Vice President, Head of Senior Living Research, Ziegler

A TIMELY RESET FOR THE YEAR AHEAD

Early 2026 presents a critical opportunity for leadership teams to reassess, pressure test assumptions, and refresh strategic thinking. The ReImagining Care Models conference provides a focused environment for peers and experts, grounded in data, case studies, and actionable financial modeling.

The program centers on the pivotal decisions leaders are facing, including:

Sustaining or redesigning skilled nursing in a tightening financial climate
Repositioning assisted living to meet a changing customer profile
Understanding the full cost to develop and run a small-house model, and when it makes sense
Evaluate the long-term implications of exiting skilled nursing

Attendees will also learn from Poydras Home’s household model transformation, a living example of person-directed care paired with operational redesign.

“Leaders will leave with frameworks and tools they can apply immediately, including financial and strategic lenses for comparing pathways, real-world examples of successful pivots, and proven approaches to workforce culture and design feasibility,” said Ryan.

For more information or to register, please visit https://aginginnovation.org/reimagining/.

ABOUT AGINGIN

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

For media inquiries, please contact:
Shonne Fegan-Ehrhardt
3rd3rd Marketing
(847) 962-9879
shonne@3rd3rd.com

IMAGE link for media: https://aginginnovation.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/AgingIN-Press.png

NEWS SOURCE: AgingIN

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

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/agingin-hosts-executive-symposium-exploring-the-future-of-human-centered-aging/

Overdrive Digital Marketing Launches Expanded AEO and AI Visibility System

NEW ORLEANS, La., Nov. 26, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Overdrive Digital Marketing, a leader in website development, SEO, and strategic online growth, has announced an expanded version of its Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) and Large Language Model (LLM) visibility system. This upgraded offering is built to help businesses appear directly inside AI powered answers across platforms like ChatGPT, Bing Copilot, Perplexity, and Google’s emerging generative search features.

Image caption: Overdrive Digital Marketing.

With more consumers turning to conversational AI tools for recommendations, service providers, and decision support, Overdrive Digital Marketing is taking a proactive role in preparing businesses for a rapidly evolving search landscape.

“AI driven search is transforming the way people find information,” said Dr. Brad Ictech, Founder and CEO of Overdrive Digital Marketing. “Consumers are no longer relying on traditional search results alone. They are asking AI assistants direct questions and expecting instant, trusted answers. Our AEO system ensures our clients become part of those answers.”

Recent industry research shows how quickly AI powered search is becoming the preferred method for consumers:

More than a quarter of online users now rely on AI assistants weekly when looking for local services or product recommendations
Generative search features across major platforms are expected to influence more than 30 percent of consumer decisions by 2025.
Bing Copilot has surged to hundreds of millions of active users.
More than 70 percent of users report that AI generated answers feel faster and easier to understand than traditional search results.

As these tools continue to expand, visibility inside AI responses is becoming just as important as ranking on page one of Google.

Overdrive Digital Marketing’s expanded AEO system is engineered to help businesses meet this shift head on. The system strengthens a company’s digital identity, improves machine readability, and increases the likelihood that AI models will recognize, reference, and recommend the business in their conversational answers.

The enhancement begins with Knowledge Graph and entity optimization, ensuring that search engines and AI platforms fully understand a business’s identity, services, and service area. Overdrive then deploys advanced schema markup and structured data so that LLMs can interpret and pull information into natural language responses. AI directory submissions help businesses get included in the databases that feed ChatGPT, Bing Copilot, Perplexity, and other platforms. This is paired with GEO techniques designed to increase visibility in AI generated local suggestions such as “best roofer near me” or “top HVAC companies in my area.”

“AI decides which businesses to trust based on the clarity and consistency of the data it can read,” said Dr. Ictech. “If a company’s information is incomplete, outdated, or not written in a machine friendly format, the model simply selects another provider. We make sure our clients never get passed over.”

All Overdrive Digital Marketing plans now integrate this AEO and LLM visibility system. Each plan includes a free professionally designed website optimized for performance, local SEO, on page optimization, Google Ads management, high speed hosting, security features, analytics dashboards, and authority building content such as blog articles and press releases. Whether a business chooses the Starter, Growth, or Dominant Plan, the entire system works together to boost rankings, increase lead flow, and build strong online authority.

Businesses using Overdrive’s services report measurable improvements across both traditional and AI powered search platforms. Many have seen higher organic visibility, more calls, stronger Map Pack listings, better keyword coverage, and more frequent mentions in AI generated responses on tools like Copilot and Perplexity.

“Traditional SEO helps you stay visible where the competition has been,” said Dr. Ictech. “AEO helps you stay visible where the competition is going. When you combine the two, you build a long term growth system that keeps your business in front of customers no matter how search evolves.”

About Overdrive Digital Marketing

Overdrive Digital Marketing is a full service website, SEO, AEO, and Google Ads agency based in Louisiana, serving clients nationwide. The company specializes in combining advanced technical optimization with behavioral insights to help businesses increase visibility, generate consistent leads, and secure placements inside AI powered search results. Offices are located in Slidell and New Orleans.

Overdrive Digital Marketing
Phone: (504) 470 7811
Address: 650, 140046 Poydras St Suite 1400, New Orleans, LA 70130
Website: https://www.OverdriveDigitalMarketing.com

***

NEWS SOURCE: Overdrive Digital Marketing

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

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/overdrive-digital-marketing-launches-expanded-aeo-and-ai-visibility-system/

Skyhawks Sports Honors Skyhawks-SuperTots Sports Colorado as its 2024 Franchise of the Year

NEW ORLEANS, La., Nov. 11, 2024 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Skyhawks Sports, a Stack Sports company, is proud to announce Skyhawks-SuperTots Sports Colorado, owned by Karl and Tori Makela, has been awarded the 2024 Skyhawks-SuperTots Franchise of the Year Award. The Makela’s, who have been Franchise Owners since the fall of 2017, received this recognition during an awards ceremony at the annual Skyhawks “Game On” Conference, held this September in New Orleans. This is their third time being recognized for this award.

IMAGE caption: Aspin Sanchez (Marketing Specialist), Tori and Karl Makela (Franchise Owners), Amanda Johnson (Area Manager).

Skyhawks-SuperTots Sports Colorado has built an outstanding reputation, growing into one of the largest Skyhawks franchise territories in the country. Known for their strong business acumen and commitment to excellence, they have consistently delivered high-quality youth sports programs, earning exceptionally positive evaluations from the families they serve. Their dedication to creating fun, safe, and enriching sports experiences for kids has made them a standout within the Skyhawks community.

“Karl and Tori Makela, along with their incredible team, exemplify what it means to be model Franchise owners,” said Jason Frazier, President at Skyhawks Sports. “Their unwavering commitment to helping other franchisees, contributing to the growth of the Skyhawks system, and providing top-notch programming for families in Colorado, sets them apart. They are always the first to raise their hands to support the broader Skyhawks community, making the entire system stronger.”

In addition to their exceptional franchise management, Skyhawks-SuperTots Sports Colorado’s leadership has made them a trusted partner for local communities across the state from Fort Collins to Colorado Springs, along the Front Range and the I70 corridor offering innovative and engaging programs that inspire the next generation of athletes.

“We are beyond thrilled to be named the 2024 Skyhawks-SuperTots Sports Franchise of the Year,” said Franchise Owner Tori Makela, “Our mission in Colorado is to ‘Connect with INTENTION, IGNITE a Spark, and Leave an IMPRINT!’ We are incredibly fortunate to live out that mission daily – whether it is for the kids and parents we serve, our amazing staff, or the wonderful organizations we partner with. Having our hard work recognized means the world to us, and we look forward to continuing to make a positive impact across Colorado every day for many years to come.”

The awards ceremony was an even greater triumph for Skyhawks-SuperTots Sports Colorado, as their largest partnering organization, Fort Collins Parks and Recreation, was honored as a finalist for the 2024 Organization Partner of the Year award. Fort Collins Parks and Recreation stood out as one of five finalists chosen from over 2,100 partnering organizations across thirty-four states. Adding to the night’s accolades was the recognition of Brie Cyboron from Colorado Springs, who was recognized as one of six National Coach of the Year finalists. Brie’s passion and energy in helping kids thrive embodies the spirit of a true Skyhawks-SuperTots Sports Coach. These recognitions highlight Skyhawks-SuperTots Sports Colorado’s ability to foster exceptional talent and partnerships that drive the growth and success of youth sports throughout the region.

About Skyhawks:

Founded in Spokane, Washington in 1979, Skyhawks has established itself as one of the largest youth sports program providers in North America. Skyhawks provides a wide variety of fun, safe, and positive programs that emphasize critical lessons by “Teaching Life Skills through Sports.” Programs range from week-long summer camps to after-school programs, clinics, and leagues for children aged 18 months to 14 in a variety of sports. Learn more: https://www.skyhawks.com/.

About Stack Sports:

With nearly 50 million users in 35 countries, Stack Sports is a global technology leader in SaaS platform offerings for the sports industry. The company provides world-class software and services to support national governing bodies, youth sports associations, leagues, clubs, parents, coaches, and athletes. Some of the largest and most prominent sports organizations including the U.S. Soccer Federation, Little League Baseball and Softball, and Pop Warner Little Scholars rely on Stack Sports technology to run and manage their organizations.

Stack Sports is headquartered in Dallas and is leading the industry one team at a time focusing on four key pillars — Grassroots Engagement, Participation Growth, Recruiting Pathways, and Elite Player Development. To learn more about how Stack Sports is transforming the sports experience, please visit https://stacksports.com/.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Aspin Sanchez
Marketing Specialist
Skyhawks-SuperTots Sports Colorado
Email: coloradomarketing@skyhawks.com

This press release recognizes the commitment and shared goals between Skyhawks Sports Academy, LLC and Skyhawks-SuperTots Sports Colorado, highlighting their partnership’s role in providing quality youth sports programs throughout the state of Colorado.

IMAGE LINK FOR MEDIA: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/24-1111-s2p-skyhawkstots-300dpi.jpg

IMAGE caption: Aspin Sanchez (Marketing Specialist), Tori and Karl Makela (Franchise Owners), Amanda Johnson (Area Manager)

NEWS SOURCE: Stack Sports

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

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/skyhawks-sports-honors-skyhawks-supertots-sports-colorado-as-its-2024-franchise-of-the-year/

New Orleans to Host The 18th Annual Edition of Its Roller Derby Themed RUNNING OF THE BULLS On July 12-14

NEW ORLEANS, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Crescent City will once again be the backdrop for America's original festival to commemorate Pamplona, Spain's centuries-old San Fermin celebration that culminates in the famous Running of the Bulls in New Orleans on July 13, 2024, Nola Bulls LLC announced today.

San Fermin in Nueva Orleans 2024 will take place July 12 through 14, 2024, in the Central Business District of downtown New Orleans, with three days of events at the beautiful and historic Gallier Hall at 545 St. Charles Avenue.

The start of the weekend's festivities - "El Txupinazo" - kicks off on Friday night. This year's entertainment includes New Orleans' own James Andrews and the Crescent City All Star Jazz Band. There will be a fund-raiser for their chosen charity partner, Beth's Friends Forever, to support New Orleans area women fighting cancer.

RELEASE THOSE BULLS on SATURDAY MORNING!

Come out and see women roller derby athletes, aka RollerBulls(tm), chase down "runners" wearing traditional red and white colors to commemorate Saint Fermin. The Bulls themselves, hailing from across the USA and Canada, will be decked out as their namesake and delivering air bat reminders for participants to "move it along" to the annual gauntlet before finishing the run at Gallier Hall for performances by an outstanding, all "NOLA" lineup.

Neutral Snap's Pop Punk set kicks off the main room, while DJ Brice Nice spins in the chill room. Dinny Skip, the "freakin' funkiest funkrap flabadooby to ever stomp this sweet swingin' sphere" headlines. All the while, the Crescent City All Star Jazz Band jazzes up the VIP.

The finale of the weekend is the beloved Burlesque-themed recovery party to close out the fiesta, and will once again be hosted by Big Deal Burlesque. This is a ticketed event inside the theater at Gallier Hall, and will include a tasty brunch and Bloody Marys.

Proceeds benefit Beth's Friends Forever, a New Orleans non-profit supporting women fighting cancer. Since its inception in 2007, San Fermin Nueva Orleans has delivered more than $50,000 directly to patients going through their fight.

DETAILS:

Register here for this year's San Fermin in Nueva Orleans - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/san-fermin-in-nueva-orleans-2024-tickets-879592393527?aff=oddtdtcreator

Visit https://nolabulls.com/ for more information

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

* Friday, July 12: El Txupinazo, Gallier Hall, 5:30 - 9 p.m.

* Saturday, July 13: RUNNING OF THE BULLS, Gallier Hall, 6:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.

* Sunday, July 14: Pobre de Mi, Gallier Hall, 12-3 p.m.

RELATED LINKS:

https://www.crescentcityallstars.com/

https://www.bethsfriendsforever.org/

https://www.facebook.com/BIGDEALBURLESQUE

https://www.neutralsnap.com/

https://www.bricenice.com/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO (YouTube - credit: Misadventures of Team A.J. @misadventuresofteamaj):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e2QgHq4Cnjc

The Crescent City will once again be the backdrop for America's original festival to commemorate Pamplona, Spain's centuries-old San Fermin celebration that culminates in the famous Running of the Bulls in New Orleans on July 13, 2024, Nola Bulls LLC announced today.

Related link: http://nolabulls.com/

United for Human Rights Brings Its Cutting-Edge Program and Technology to the National School Boards Association Conference 2024

NEW ORLEANS, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- United for Human Rights brought its youth-friendly human rights program to NSBA24 - National School Boards Association (NSBA) Conference for 2024 in New Orleans April 6 to 8. The purpose of NSBA is "to ensure each student everywhere has access to excellent and equitable public education governed by high-performing school board leaders and supported by the community." So how does human rights education relate to this endeavor?

"Human rights education is essential," says United for Human Rights Coordinator Emma Sims.

A recent article in the Washington Post found nearly 200 incidents of suicides by children bullied at school. "Parents whose bullied children end their lives are seeking to hold schools accountable. More and more are filing suit... 'It's a wake-up call to schools around the country that unless you protect our children, you will be in the same position'" said an attorney representing one of these families.

"There could be no more important issue than to guarantee the safety of our children at school," says Sims. "When youth learn their rights as laid out by the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights, they realize that bullying isn't just a personal problem. It's a violation of their rights. We know of many instances where youth who have completed this curriculum take responsibility for the safety of their classmates. Those who would earlier simply stand by and watch while their classmates are bullied take action personally or alert their teachers or school resource officers to get help with what's going on.

"But educators or administrators are often balked by budget cuts or simply lack the time to design a compelling curriculum that will get through to kids about human rights and their importance."

This was a key reason United for Human Rights organized a booth at NSBA24 - to inform school board members that the United for Human Rights educator package is available to them free of charge. Included in the package:

* An Educator's Guide

* The Story of Human Rights, a powerful film that defines human rights for anyone

* 24 copies of The Story of Human Rights booklet

* Discussion questions

* Assignments that require application of theory

* Glossary of terms, references to print and online resources

"Bullying and discrimination are a brutal fact of life in our schools. When young people are educated on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, they realize these antisocial behaviors are not simply something that is an inevitable fact of life. UHR is motivated by the belief that despite myriad human rights abuses in the world today, if youth truly understood the 30 rights enshrined in this United Nations document and insisted on their own rights and the rights of others, we could create a sea change in society in a single generation," says Sims.

United for Human Rights and Youth for Human Rights are supported by Scientology Churches and Scientologists, making it possible to provide materials free of charge to educators, civic and community leaders and anyone wishing to educate youth on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The program was inspired by humanitarian and Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard, who believed "Human rights must be made a fact, not an idealistic dream."

"The best way to achieve this," says Sims, "is through education."

For more information, visit the website of United for Human Rights or watch The Story of Human Rights and Thirty Rights Brought to Life on the Scientology Network.

LEARN MORE:

https://humanrights.com

https://youthforhumanrights.org

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

MULTIMEDIA

https://www.humanrights.com/course/

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/the-story-of-human-rights.html

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/30-rights-brought-to-life.html

United for Human Rights brought its youth-friendly human rights program to NSBA24 - National School Boards Association (NSBA) Conference for 2024 in New Orleans April 6 to 8. The purpose of NSBA is "to ensure each student everywhere has access to excellent and equitable public education governed by high-performing school board leaders and supported by the community." So how does human rights education relate to this endeavor?

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

Protestors at the American College of Psychiatrists Convention in New Orleans Demand an End to Electroshock: It is Not Therapy, it is Torture, They Say

NEW ORLEANS, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- Protesters demonstrated outside the American College of Psychiatrists Convention at the Marriott New Orleans last week, demanding psychiatrists immediately cease using ECT (electroconvulsive treatment). Some 100,000 Americans are subjected to ECT every year, making its use a multibillion-dollar industry. Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR) organized the demonstration. CCHR, a mental health watchdog founded in 1969 by the Church of Scientology and professor of psychiatry Dr. Thomas Szasz, says ECT sends 460 volts of electricity through the brain causing a grand mal seizure. Yet American psychiatric facilities, including those in the host city of New Orleans, continue to use it.

CCHR international spokesperson Rev. Fred Shaw, president of the NAACP Inglewood-South Bay, California, Chapter and cofounder of the Task Force against Racism and Modern Day Eugenics, led the protest. Shaw asserted that electroshock treatment "should be universally banned. It is astounding that American psychiatrists still endorse electroshock, including to children, pregnant women and the frail elderly."

CCHR called on the American College of Psychiatrists to put members on notice that the administration of electroshock and all coercive psychiatric practices must stop and that psychiatric associations have the duty to include patient protection and rights in the continuing medical education of its members.

In October 2023, the World Health Organization issued guidance stating: "Coercive practices in mental health care violate the right to be protected from torture or cruel, inhumane and degrading treatment." The WHO pointed out that "ECT without consent violates the right to physical and mental integrity and may constitute torture and ill-treatment." It also clarifies that informed consent requires that those "offered ECT should also be made aware of all its risks and potential short- and long-term harmful effects, such as memory loss and brain damage."

The guidance cited a 2018 Los Angeles lawsuit that led to ECT device manufacturer, Somatics Inc., adding a warning to its instruction manual that "patients may experience...permanent brain damage."

One of the law firms that successfully litigated the case, reported: "ECT can cause brain damage, permanent memory loss and neurocognitive injury," that there are no long-term studies that show ECT is safe or effective, and that the procedure delivers "a significant amount of electricity to the human brain, resulting in damage."

Guidance from the World Health Organization and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights issued in 2023 states, "In no situation shall mental health internment, hospitalization or treatment be carried out against the will of the person."

The United Nations Convention against Torture condemns ECT. The U.S. is a signatory to the convention, making it applicable in domestic law. Despite this, many U.S. states allow for involuntary ECT. What's more, a July 2018 UN Human Rights Council report indicated that forced ECT constitutes "torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment...."

CCHR has long fought to protect the rights of individuals to refuse ECT and was instrumental in obtaining legislation in several states of Australia that bans an ECT procedure combined with deep sedation. Called "Deep Sleep," it was so dangerous for people of all ages that criminal penalties were added to laws preventing its administration. In 2023, members of the UK Parliament called for a complete ban on the practice.

Rev. Shaw is the subject of an episode of the Scientology Network original series Voices for Humanity featuring changemakers of variety of faiths, cultures and nations as they work to make a difference by helping communities in partnership with Scientology-sponsored humanitarian programs. Born into a family of civic-minded freedom fighters in South Los Angeles, Rev. Shaw often heard it said, "If you don't stand up, who will?" A former deputy sheriff, Fred has a passion for protecting civil and human rights.

The CCHR documentary Therapy or Torture: The Truth About Electroshock exposes the serious risks of ECT. The film is available in 17 languages on the Scientology Network.

For more information, visit the CCHR website, or watch a series of CCHR documentaries on the Scientology Network that expose the truth about ECT, the marketing of dangerous psychotropic drugs and psychiatric industry's dark and terrifying history.

MULTIMEDIA:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/fred-shaw.html

https://www.cchrint.org

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/fred-shaw.html

Protesters demonstrated outside the American College of Psychiatrists Convention at the Marriott New Orleans last week, demanding psychiatrists immediately cease using ECT (electroconvulsive treatment). Some 100,000 Americans are subjected to ECT every year, making its use a multibillion-dollar industry. Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR) organized the demonstration. CCHR, a mental health watchdog founded in 1969 by the Church of Scientology and professor of psychiatry Dr. Thomas Szasz, says ECT sends 460 volts of electricity through the brain causing a grand mal seizure.

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

Black Writers Workspace Cultivates the Art of Writing During Upcoming Virtual Workshop

NEW ORLEANS, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- Three times self-published author and entrepreneur Michelle Jackson had no idea starting a private Facebook group would change her life. In March 2020, inspired by COVID's unexpected stay-at-home orders and civil unrest caused by the murder of George Floyd, Jackson took to social media to connect with writers of color and to find resources on how to market a book without leaving the confines of her home. To her surprise, thousands of black authors were facing the same hurdle and looking to collaborate with other like-minded artists. And so, the Black Writers Workspace (BWW) online community was born.

BWW has grown to over 15,000 followers in three years, hosting over 100 author interviews and virtual roundtable discussions, four book fairs, four writing competitions, and a writer's workshop. Also, the community has inspired the launch of a new business venture, Direct2Author.com, an online independent book marketing and writing service platform developed by Jackson to help authors build their fan base with effective and low-cost book marketing tools.

"Over a million books are published each year, making the book marketing journey more competitive and crucial to the success of a publication," said Jackson. "BWW was created to provide a positive space where writers can share resources and get the help they need to publish great works of art."

In a move to expand the BWW brand and help writers of color succeed, the community will host the BLK INK Virtual Writer's Workshop on May 18-20, 2023, via Zoom. This year's theme is 'Straight FIRE! Writing to Inspire a New Generation of Readers.' The event is designed to educate aspiring, new, and experienced writers about practical tools and techniques for navigating the world of book writing and publishing.

The speaker roster includes Alex Jennings, a New Orleans-based award-winning fantasy writer and instructor of popular fiction at the University of Southern Maine; Jane Friedman, author, co-founder of The Hot Sheet and a columnist with Publishers Weekly; Diane Marie Brown, professor at Orange Coast College and author of the debut novel, Black Candle Women, a Read with Jenna Bush Book Club selection that is currently being adapted for television and Dr. Mona Lisa Saloy, professor at Dillard University and Louisiana's newest Poet Laureate.

Hour-long sessions will tackle topics like 'Land a Deal in 2023,' 'Put it in an (Audio) Book,' and 'Writing Fantasy & Sci-Fi.' During the event week, writers can also participate in a one-on-one manuscript review session with professional editors with Speak Write Play LLC, a New Jersey-based English Language and Editing Service.

"BWW benefits when experienced writers share their pathway to success with us. Collaboration is key to nurturing a vibrant and diverse literary community,' said Jackson. "We invite everyone to join us for the BLK INK workshop. Our goal is to nurture the next great writer."

The event is open to all writers, regardless of race, religion, sex, and sexuality. It will take place via Zoom over three days, starting Thursday, May 18th, and ending Saturday, May 20th. Attendees can pay one fee for all three days or pay per day. College students can attend for free when they register with a .edu email address.

To register on Eventbrite, go to https://bit.ly/BLKINKWORKSHOP.

For sponsorship opportunities, email Michelle D. Jackson at events@prsolutionsllc.org.

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvLTqx4GsQWed70-zOPDZTQ

Three times self-published author and entrepreneur Michelle Jackson had no idea starting a private Facebook group would change her life. In March 2020, inspired by COVID's unexpected stay-at-home orders, Jackson took to social media to connect with writers of color and to find resources on how to market a book without leaving the confines of her home. And so, the Black Writers Workspace (BWW) online community was born.

Flyvito announces the registration of trademark for the name Flyvito just weeks after releasing the album ‘Collection’ to all streaming platforms

NEW ORLEANS, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- Flyvito® a well-established producer based in New Orleans, just announced the registering of his trademark Flyvito. This comes after years of working on major projects with artists worldwide. In an effort to verify the brand Flyvito, the producer has decided to register his trademark, and business Flyvito LLC in New Orleans. He hopes to generate additional leads through strategic monetization procedures, along with this verification of brand identity.

"At this point in my career, it's more about offering a seamless and credible product for individuals who wish to shop with me. I want every artist to know that if they work with Flyvito in any capacity, they are getting a genuine product from a credible business. Registering this trademark will provide the level of credibility necessary for these artists."

This information was announced just a few weeks after Flyvito released the album "Collection" through Sony on all streaming platforms. "Collection" is an album of collective instrumentals produced by Flyvito from the years 2010-2021.

More information: https://flyvito.com/

About Flyvito:

Based in New Orleans, Louisiana, Flyvito's unique sound and beat patterns derive from inspiration of Mannie Fresh, Just Blaze, Mouse on the Track and Zaytoven to name a few.

His presence on YouTube rose quickly to millions of views on videos from 2010-2015 and boasts several thousand subscribers.

Flyvito explains that his passion comes from hearing perfection in the beat patterns and melodies. "It's never been about the money for me. That's why for years I gave away music for free or for very low prices. I just love a great sound."

Enjoy Flyvito's catalog on https://flyvito.com/ and at http://teamflyness.com. He can be found on Instagram and Twitter @Fliiizle and YouTube @Flyvito respectively.

Flyvito® a well-established producer based in New Orleans, just announced the registering of his trademark Flyvito. This comes after years of working on major projects with artists worldwide. In an effort to verify the brand Flyvito, the producer has decided to register his trademark, and business Flyvito LLC in New Orleans.

Related link: https://flyvito.com/

New Online Bookstore Creates Marketplace for Self-Published Authors Struggling to Compete on Amazon

NEW ORLEANS, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- The self-publishing book industry's exponential growth has taken the world by storm. Opening doors once closed to unknown writers, self-publishing creates an alternative - some may say disruptive - option for writers with a small fan base to share their work and build brand awareness on a global scale. Empowered by the popular do-it-yourself movement, a new direct-to-customer bookselling platform, Direct2Author.com, launched in December.

Aimed at helping self-published authors committed to creating, distributing, and promoting their work, Direct2Author is a low-cost, targeted complement to promoting books on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other online bookstores.

"Direct2Author is our response to large book distributors like Amazon, who sells more books than any other single retail outlet in history and has over 30 million titles in its online bookstore," said Michelle Jackson, self-published author and founder of the platform. "Our goal is to pull self-published books out of the highly trafficked traditional book marketing lane and steer them to a place they can call 'home.' We believe this platform will make it easier for dedicated readers to find new works by diverse writers."

Direct2Author stakes its bet on book lovers interested in supporting a niche market. But the platform goes a step further by addressing an issue that often plagues writers who aren't traditionally published. By allowing authors to earn a "Reader Approved" badge from a team of editors and beta readers, the platform helps validate self-published works' readability, appeal, and writing style.

"Too often, readers believe that self-published books are poorly written,' said Jackson. "But the success of traditionally published authors who were once self-published like Margaret Atwood, EL James, and even Stephen King who self-published a collection of short stories in 1960, prove that our work is valuable and critical to the publishing industry's growth."

Direct2Author provides a free basic book profile upload and three subscription-based dynamic profiles. Dynamic profiles include direct links to the author's websites and author pages, book cover and book description uploads, promo video integration, social media links, and digital media promotion. Subscriptions start at $3.99 a month.

Readers can sign-up and receive free access to the online bookstore and the 5-crown book rating system. They can also earn free merchandise and weekly book feature promotions. Learn more: https://www.direct2author.com/avid-reader-subscribe-page.

Unlike Amazon, Direct2Author is not a fulfillment service. Instead, the platform aims to tap into direct-to-customer bookselling. As self-published authors build their own websites on platforms like WiX, WordPress, and Squarespace and create author brand awareness on social media using popular hashtags like #booktok, #bookstagram, and #booktwt, readers can purchase directly from the author, pay less in distribution fees, and help them build long-term fan-bases.

"Self-published authors are entrepreneurs," said Jackson. "Technology allows us to establish dynamic branding and marketing tools that we can control. As a result, we now have the power to touch a global community of book lovers."

To learn more or register as a reader, author, or sponsor, visit https://www.direct2author.com/ or email support@direct2author.com.

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/M5lxDER8TKY

The self-publishing book industry's exponential growth has taken the world by storm. Opening doors once closed to unknown writers, self-publishing creates an alternative - some may say disruptive - option for writers with a small fan base to share their work and build brand awareness on a global scale. Empowered by the popular do-it-yourself movement, a new direct-to-customer bookselling platform, Direct2Author.com, launched in December.

Related link: https://www.direct2author.com/

Virtual tech event highlights local STEM professionals during WHAT I CAN BE! Tech Career Showcase

NEW ORLEANS, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- LifeSkills Foundation, a local non-profit dedicated to youth entrepreneurship and workforce training advocacy, is hosting TECHCharge NOLA 2021, a virtual tech career expo and speakers forum on Saturday, March 13 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. via live stream on Facebook, LinkedIn, and BoothCentral.

The event is designed to encourage Louisianians to explore tech career pathways for 21st-century jobs in information technology, computer science, engineering, healthcare, gaming, cybersecurity, applied science, and digital media. The event's goal is to inspire youth, young adults, and retrainable or transitioning adults to pursue hard and soft skill tech jobs.

Attending guests will hear local tech and STEM professionals, including Christopher Reade, Founder and CEO of LookFar and Carrollton Enterprise Services; Malik Mingo, TV Host, WWL-TV; Sabrina Short, Founder & CEO, NOLAvate Black; Scottie Jackson, Lieutenant Colonel (retired), U.S. Army & Cyber Engineer, Perspecta - NASA Program and Anastasia Aubrey, Sr. Program Manager, DXC Technology discuss and take questions about their pathways to success during the WHAT I CAN BE! Tech Career Showcase.

Also, attendees will enjoy interactive exhibits by NOLA's top industry, academic, and non-profit organizations, hear panel discussions hosted by DXC Technology and The 15 White Coats, enjoy music by New Orleans's own DJ Polo, and win prizes. Guests can also help their favorite school or non-profit win a $1,000 cash donation by attending the event.

TECHCharge's current sponsors include PR Solutions, Delgado Community College, DXC Technology, The Slone Group, LifeSkills Foundation, and Venture Walk Business Partners.

To learn more and to register visit, http://www.tech2talent.com/ or go to https://www.eventbrite.com/e/techcharge-nola-2021-a-virtual-tech-career-expo-speakers-series-tickets-135504783455 to register via Eventbrite. To exhibit or sponsor, contact Michelle Jackson, LifeSkills' Executive Director at events@prsolutionsllc.org or call 504-509-7094.

About LifeSkills

LifeSkills Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides mentoring to youth and aspiring youth entrepreneurs. The Foundation connects young leaders to experienced business and academic professionals via virtual and face-to-face platforms designed to ensure delivery of guidance, training, and financial support. The Foundation's mission is to help youth and youth business leaders build viable ventures and use their business know-how, leadership skills, and self-confidence to invest in their communities, create jobs, and prepare for the future workforce. Learn more: https://www.i-investcompetition.com/lifeskills-foundation

LifeSkills Foundation, a local non-profit dedicated to youth entrepreneurship and workforce training advocacy, is hosting TECHCharge NOLA 2021, a virtual tech career expo and speakers forum on Saturday, March 13 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. via live stream on Facebook, LinkedIn, and BoothCentral.

SYNERGY Enters a Strategic Partnership with Airware Transportation & Logistics

NEW ORLEANS, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- Synergy is pleased to announce its strategic partnership with recent Ernest N. Morial Small Business of the Year Award winner Airware. Airware is a minority certified business with a long track record of introducing innovation at the local, state and Federal government level.

Synergy was seeking a synergistic relationship with the Federal government to drive the most accurate testing available to support critical infrastructure and emergency response readiness. Airware found a unique way to position and contract with agencies seeking the best testing solutions to combat the current COVID-19 pandemic crisis. In partnership with Airware, Synergy is providing end-to-end solutions including testing, trace mapping and disinfection 30-day protection.

Airware invented the key analytics technology that assesses airline landed weight per month which allows airports to manage their business accuracy and real time certainty. Airware is once again working with Synergy to develop predictive analytics to provide Federal leaders with real-time COVID-19 status in a proprietary format that exceeds current standards and informs policy decisions.

Airware is a full-service Management Consulting firm providing consulting, transportation & logistics, information technology, and small business services to a wide variety of clients in both the private and public sectors. Airware is certified with the City of New Orleans, RTA, DOTD, New Orleans Aviation Board, Sewerage and Water Board, and the State of Louisiana Small Emerging Business-Hudson Initiative, PAUCP, NYNJ Port Authority, NC DOTD, City of NY, City of Atlanta, GADOTD, FDOT, ILDOTD and MSDOTD. Airware has Airware offices are located in New Orleans, Louisiana, Dallas, Atlanta, Georgia & Alexandria, VA. The firm's founder is a native of New Orleans. He is holds degrees and certifications from Stanford and Loyola University.

Airware was founded October 11, 1994 with one employee. Airware has grown from one employee to its current staffing of fort-five (45) professional and support staff. The professional staff is led by Terry Williams, Managing Partner & key Principals with combined financial and business consulting experience of over 50 years.

Airware is organized into four operating groups: Consulting, Information Technology, Small Business Services and Construction management. Airware's management team includes personnel from several "Big Four" CPA firms, as well as Fortune 500 companies in the disciplines of Financial Management and Information Technology. The depth of experience possessed by our management team provides the stability needed to assure that Airware consistently delivers quality services to all our clients. Airware's significant experience ranges from financial analyses to Construction & Program Management (over 1 billion dollars managed in Capital Projects) as the following qualifications and experience suggests.

Ernest N. Morial Small Business of the Year Award

Ernest N. Morial was a civil rights activist and a political pioneer, whose accomplished career encompassed many firsts including the first black mayor of New Orleans in 1977, a position he held for two terms, and the first African American U.S. Attorney in Louisiana. He also created the first office of Economic Development to coordinate the city's efforts to retain and attract business and the first minority business enterprise counselor to assist small and minority-owned businesses.

About Synergy Diagnostic Laboratory, Inc.

SynergyDX is an FDA certified diagnostic laboratory providing the most accurate COVID-19 SARS non-invasive test in the world.

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

If you would like more information about this topic, please email info@synergydx.com

Synergy is pleased to announce its strategic partnership with recent Ernest N. Morial Small Business of the Year Award winner Airware. Airware is a minority certified business with a long track record of introducing innovation at the local, state and Federal government level.

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

New Fine Art Photography Coffee Table Book Features Lafreniere Park

NEW ORLEANS, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- The summer of 2020 will have varied meanings for people around the world. For Eugene L. Brill, a nature photojournalist and nonfiction author, it meant inspirational walks around New Orleans' Lafreniere Park. In his newly-released coffee table book, "Summer of 2020: Walks at Lafreniere Park," Brill shares the history and photography of this natural oasis which includes a staggering number of bird species.

The book includes a brief history of New Orleans (including the history of the first settlers, Native Americans, Pirates on the Mississippi, the Flood of 1927, Hurricane Katrina and the Gulf of Mexico Dead Zone). It also highlights the park's rich history and shares images of its many birds and other wildlife. The author tells the story of Attorney General Lafreniere, explains the park's initial concept in 1975 and documents what it's like today through its more than 50 plus wildlife photos.

"The bird life in Lafreniere Park is unsuspectingly spectacular," Brill says. "Usually when there's a 'Bird Sanctuary' sign you may expect to see a few birds. However, the pure multitude of birds in this park is mind-boggling. They live and thrive in perfect harmony with their human neighbors. My desire is to give people a sense, through my photographs, of what it's like to spend time among the birds of Lafreniere Park."

The foreword is written by Andrew Ward, Ph.D., chairman and co-founder HIV Awareness "iKnow" Music Project-East Africa.

"There's an intimacy to Brill's work; one has the sense of peeking into someone else's private family photo album," Ward says.

Brill shares that he hopes his passion for photography, the environment, nature and wildlife are evident throughout the book.

"Feeding my curiosity for history and my interest in photography, I further developed my love of the natural world that has since become the primary focus of my life. My goal is to use photography to bring history to life," Brill says.

"Summer of 2020: Walks at Lafreniere Park" is available for purchase here: https://www.eugenebrill.me/books

It's also available from:

* Amazon: Hard Cover with Full-color Dust Jacket - ISBN: 978-1715663896

* Independent Book Sellers: Hard Cover with Full-color Dust Jacket - ISBN: 978-1715616809

* Soft Cover with flexible, high-gloss laminated cover - ISBN: 978-1715629731

* Instant PDF version - Viewable on any device

* eBook - Available for Amazon Kindle Fire(r), and Apple iOS devices

About Eugene Brill

Eugene Brill is available for photography commissions to create keepsakes (web/print) and books/calendars that would preserve in posterity for future generations, in addition to generating revenue. Projects that have a conservation theme and involve botanical gardens, arboretums, public and private gardens, zoos, wildlife refuges, environmental projects, nonprofits, fundraising endeavors, etc. are encouraged to reach out.

Several photography collections, including framed prints on canvas, metal and acrylic, in addition to 12-month calendars featuring several photography sets from around the world, can be found here: https://www.eugenebrill.me.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Eugene L. Brill
+1-760-705-4367
eugene@eugenebrill.com

*Book jacket image for media: https://images.discerningassets.com/image/upload/q_auto:best/c_limit,w_1500/v1602279107/urkcesn7zd8dsw6mdjzi.jpg

The summer of 2020 will have varied meanings for people around the world. For Eugene L. Brill, a nature photojournalist and nonfiction author, it meant inspirational walks around New Orleans' Lafreniere Park. In his newly-released coffee table book, "Summer of 2020: Walks at Lafreniere Park," Brill shares the history and photography of this natural oasis which includes a staggering number of bird species.

Related link: https://www.eugenebrill.me/

Running Of The Bulls Only Sorta Canceled Due To Pandemic – 14th rendition of San Fermin in Nueva Orleans changes format, again

NEW ORLEANS, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- Nola Bulls, LLC has found a way to carry on the fun of San Fermin in Nueva Orleans with an online gathering of amigos.

Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic and the uncertainty of legal gatherings of more than 10 people, the organizers and brain trust of San Fermin in Nueva Orleans have opted for an online fiesta. On Saturday July 11, 2020 all are invited to join the team as they present a way to revel with the friends they normally see each year, but cannot due to the virus.

Annually since 2007 people have come from around the globe to enjoy the company of friends and the gorings of our Virtual Bulls, aka RollerBulls(tm). The team had to be creative in order to bring the fun and festive feeling of SFNO to their loyal fans. Notify your friends and schedule a socially distant/approved way to join in.

Back in 2007 some friends dreamt up the idea of recreating the famous Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, Spain by replacing the four-legged bovines with two-legged RollerBulls played by the Big Easy Rollergirls roller derby team. What has occurred since is nothing short of amazing. Each year hundreds of roller derby skaters (aka RollerBulls) from around the globe chase down and whoop willing runners through the streets of New Orleans. It's all part of a great three-day fiesta.

The three-day event that usually spans many blocks and venues in the city of New Orleans will be shortened to a few hours, but expanded to venues around the world. Entry to this virtual wonderland is available via www.nolabulls.com.

Look for performances from our beloved local groups and bands as well as some introductions to fans that come annually to enjoy our beloved city and this wacky fiesta.

Nola Bulls, LLC was founded in 2007 and is a provider and promoter of entertainment and cultural events in the New Orleans Area: Improving New Orleans one festival at a time. SFNO helps raise money for two local charities, visit https://www.bethsfriendsforever.org/ and http://bigeasyanimalrescue.org/ for info on these.

All Trademarks and service marks are the property of the respective parties.

For more information on the event, and a link to registration, visit http://www.nolabulls.com/

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0611s2p-nola-bulls-300dpi.jpg
*Photo caption: Photo credit Tom Pumphret.

Nola Bulls, LLC has found a way to carry on the fun of San Fermin in Nueva Orleans with an online gathering of amigos. The three-day event that usually spans many blocks and venues in the city of New Orleans will be shortened to a few hours, but expanded to venues around the world.

Related link: http://nolabulls.com/

Growing Local Collaborative Increases Food Deliveries and Resources in NOLA Amid COVID-19 Outbreak

NEW ORLEANS, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- Today, the various organizations that make up the Growing Local Collaborative - Recirculating Farms Coalition, Top Box Foods Louisiana, SPROUT NOLA, New Orleans Food Policy Advisory Committee, and Liberty's Kitchen - in partnership with Market Umbrella and the Crescent City Farmers Market, are ramping up efforts to keep New Orleans residents fed and healthy by organizing food distribution from farms to families and mapping important resources.

Connor DeLoach, Executive Director of Top Box Louisiana said, "It is even more important for people to have access to fresh food right now, as we all try to be healthy. That's why we are working with our Growing Local Collaborative partners and Crescent City Farmers Market to bring fresh local food from Louisiana farms right to people's homes."

Amid the COVID-19 outbreak, farmers markets closed to reduce potential for social contact, but people still want fresh local food. Crescent City Farmers Market and SPROUT NOLA worked together to get their growers online - posting profiles about farmers on websites and selling products that normally would be at the markets through a box delivery program with Top Box Foods Louisiana. All the staging and packing is happening at Liberty's Kitchen, which is currently suspending its other programs.

"Supporting our farmers is critical, so they are able to continue working and providing fresh food for us all," said Margee Green, Executive Director of SPROUT NOLA and organizer of the Monday ReFresh Farmers Market. "We are making sure fresh food doesn't go to waste, and it gets to people who want it, through RFC's Growing Local box and the new Crescent City Farmers Market box."

The Recirculating Farms Coalition runs Growing Local NOLA farms. Top Box has been delivering Local Garden Boxes for RFC for years, in neighborhoods with less access to fresh food, like Central City. The Growing Local boxes offers fruit, vegetables, herbs, eggs and a fun "lagniappe" item for smaller families for $15. The new Crescent City Farmers Market Box is $40 and offers bigger portions. This box is comprised of goods from CCFM vendors and qualifies for their Market Match program. Both boxes accept SNAP.

"Emergencies, like this pandemic, illustrate why having a stable local food system is critical," said Marianne Cufone, Executive Director for Recirculating Farms Coalition. "We are able to mobilize partners to offer fresh local food for a range of budgets and needs. We started our box to provide food in neighborhoods with low or no access to fresh, healthy options. Now, working with the CCFM farmers, we are expanding what we can offer - we doubled the number of boxes available this week!"

In addition to the boxes, the Collaborative is collecting information about other food resources in the city; NOLA FPAC is taking the lead. Their website lists assorted programs and has a map where children who usually have meals in schools can get grab and go food.

Elisa Munoz, Executive Director of NOLA FPAC said, "Food is a key part of who we are in New Orleans, and knowing where to access food can help us feel healthier and safer, both of which we need now. We want to offer a wide range of resources for our community."

The American Heart Association of Greater New Orleans and The Humana Foundation are supporting these programs with grants to scale up operations and pay farmers for food.

About Recirculating Farms Coalition:

Visit: Facebook, Twitter (@RecircFarms) and Instagram (@growinglocalnola). Learn more here: http://www.recirculatingfarms.org/

About Top Box Foods Louisiana: Visit: Facebook and Instagram (@topboxlouisiana) for updates. Learn more here: https://www.topboxfoods.com/new-orleans/home

About SPROUT NOLA: Visit: Facebook, Twitter, (@SPROUTNOLA), and Instagram (@sproutnola) and learn more here: https://www.sproutnolafarm.org/

About New Orleans Food Policy Advisory Committee: Visit: Facebook, Twitter (@NolaFoodPolicy) and Instagram (@nolafoodpolicy) and learn more here: http://www.nolafoodpolicy.org/

About Liberty's Kitchen: Visit: Facebook, Twitter (@libertysitchen) and Instagram (@libertyskitchen) and learn more here: http://www.libertyskitchen.org/

About Market Umbrella and Crescent City Farmers Market: Visit: Facebook, Twitter (@ccfmtweets) and Instagram (@crescentcityfarmersmkt) and learn more here: https://www.crescentcityfarmersmarket.org/

Today, the various organizations that make up the Growing Local Collaborative - Recirculating Farms Coalition, Top Box Foods Louisiana, SPROUT NOLA, New Orleans Food Policy Advisory Committee, and Liberty's Kitchen - in partnership with Market Umbrella and the Crescent City Farmers Market, are ramping up efforts to keep New Orleans residents fed and healthy by organizing food distribution from farms to families and mapping important resources.

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

New Orleans tech companies and training organizations come together to help prepare youth and young adults for emerging tech job market

NEW ORLEANS, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- LifeSkills Foundation will host the first annual Tech-2-Talent Youth Expo on Saturday, March 14 from 1 - 5:30 p.m. at the Mel Ott Multi-Purpose Center located at 2301 Belle Chasse Highway in Gretna, La. The event is a fun, interactive tech expo and speakers forum designed to encourage youth, ages 25 and under, and their parents to explore tech career pathways for 21st century jobs in areas like information technology, computer science, engineering, healthcare, cybersecurity, and digital media.

Co-sponsored by DXC Technology and OnPath Federal Credit Union, the event will educate and inform attendees about traditional and non-traditional pathways, certifications, and experiential learning opportunities that can lead to successful careers in hard and soft-skill positions in various industries. Attendees will learn how technology skills readily used in the home, school, and workplace can translate to long-term careers and entrepreneurial ventures. In addition, youth and their parents can be trained on a tech skill in 20 minutes or less during the Tech20 Interactive Showcase.

"Pursuing a job in tech-whether it's digital media, coding or health IT- is not only a great idea, but it lays the foundation for a career that can generate great pay and longevity as well as equip youth with the tools they need to successfully reinvest into the community," said Michelle Jackson, executive director of LifeSkills Foundation. "Our goal is to work with local stakeholders to offer youth, at all skill levels, a pathway to success in tech. If we can encourage one avid gamer to pursue a job as a video game designer or inspire a student who enjoys problem solving to pursue a job as a network administrator, we know we are moving in the right direction."

In traditional New Orleans style, Tech-2-Talent will include music by a local DJ, food, tech swag bags and prizes. Participants include DXC Technology, Tulane University School of Professional Advancement - Digital Design, Game Art & Animation, the U.S. Army, Operation Spark, National Integrated Cyber Education Research Center (NICERC), Diabetes Management & Supplies, Urban League of Louisiana, Tech Talent South, Zephyr Drones, NOLA Code, New Horizons Computer Learning Center, PR Solutions and My College Fit. Other participants include Electric Girls and Louisiana College.

The 2020 theme is, Inspiring the Next Generation of Tech Leaders. The event is open to youth with no tech skills or formal education, as well as those who are video game, smartphone, and social media savvy. Gaming competitions, virtual reality and drone demonstrations will take place throughout the day. Tech training and college preparation workshops will be offered. Parents can participate in all activities, attend panel discussions, and be guests at the Inspiring our Youth Speakers Forum. The forum will feature recent graduate of Southeastern Louisiana University, Cedric Dent Jr., author of "Searching for Purpose and Understanding: Fulfilling Your Purpose in Life."

Other speakers include: Jayed Stokes, Scrum Master, DXC Technology; Eddie Smith Jr., Software Engineer, GE Aviation; Dominque Riley, Senior Technical Product Manager, Baker Hughes; Anastasia Aubrey, Senior Scrum Master, DXC Technology; and Pamela Calonje, Career Consultant, New Horizons Computer Learning Center. New Horizons will also provide first-hand information about the Louisiana Workforce Commission Youth Grant, which provides young adults between the ages of 18-24 who are currently not in school, an opportunity to receive funds to cover the cost of IT training and certification programs.

To attend, register at http://www.i-investcompetition.com/tech-2-talent-youth-expo or access the event on Eventbrite.

Ticket prices are $35. To receive a $15 discount, purchase tickets online using code T2TXmas19. Schools and nonprofits can receive two complimentary tickets if registered by March 1.

For more information, email Michelle Jackson at marketing@prsolutionsllc.org.

About LifeSkills Foundation

LifeSkills Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides mentoring to youth and aspiring youth entrepreneurs. The Foundation connects young leaders to experienced business and academic professionals via virtual and face-to-face platforms designed specifically to ensure delivery of guidance, training, and financial support. The Foundation's mission is to help youth business leaders build viable ventures and use their business know-how, leadership skills, and self-confidence to invest in their communities, create jobs, and prepare for the future workforce. LifeSkills is a principal supporter of the i.Invest National Youth Business Competition.

Learn more about LifeSkills Foundation at: https://www.i-investcompetition.com/lifeskills-foundation

LifeSkills Foundation will host the first annual Tech-2-Talent Youth Expo on Saturday, March 14 from 1 - 5:30 p.m. at the Mel Ott Multi-Purpose Center located at 2301 Belle Chasse Highway in Gretna, La.