Tag Archives: NonProfit and Charities

Lyme Disease Biobank Expands Into San Diego

SAN DIEGO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Bay Area Lyme Foundation, a leading sponsor of Lyme disease research in the U.S., announces the opening of the San Diego collection site of the Bay Area Lyme Foundation's Lyme Disease Biobank, which is the first program to provide researchers with blood and urine samples from people with early Lyme disease from multiple endemic regions across the country.

Congressman Scott Peters and Councilmember Chris Cate are scheduled to speak at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new collection site, and Council President Pro Tem Barbara Bry, Senator Toni Atkins, and Assemblymember Todd Gloria will send representatives to issue commendations to support this event.

"Lyme disease is a growing problem in the County of San Diego, because many of our residents travel to or relocate from other more highly endemic areas and it is also possible to be infected locally," said Sharon Wampler, PhD, who was instrumental in bringing Bay Area Lyme Foundation's Lyme Disease Biobank to San Diego. "As a world-class hubfor research and innovation, we can be part of the solution. This biobank is an important resource which will help researchers answer many current scientific questions about tick-borne diseases."

Much research into tick-borne infections is needed, as current diagnostics are inaccurate for more than half of early stage Lyme disease cases, treatments do not work for everyone and late stage Lyme disease can become nearly impossible to cure. In fact, a recent study based on the samples collected by the Lyme Disease Biobank and published in the Journal of Clinical Microbiology, a journal of the American Society for Microbiology, found that the Centers for Disease Control's standard two-tier testing algorithm for Lyme disease failed to accurately diagnose 71% of blood samples from individuals in endemic areas presenting with a Lyme rash, also known as an erythema migrans, greater than 5 cm. In striving to investigate better diagnostics and treatments for tick-borne diseases, researchers require verified blood, urine and tissue samples to use in their studies.

Currently, there are 50 research projects that rely on Lyme Disease Biobank samples. The San Diego collection center will be in partnership with Osteopathic Medical Associates of San Diego (OMASD).

"As Lyme disease grows in prevalance, we are seeing more people looking to make a difference for current and future patients, and our biobank offers a valuable way for the public to support researchers who are working to find solutions," said Liz Horn, PhD, principal investigator, Lyme Disease Biobank. "We are honored to be able to give people from San Diego the opportunity to contribute to this important initiative."

The Lyme Disease Biobank in San Diego will collect from people who have ongoing symptoms of Lyme disease. Importantly, because bacterial strains of tick-borne diseases have been shown to vary from region to region, a biobank in San Diego will allow researchers to explore potential new diagnostics against the range of bacterial strains prevalent in people with Lyme disease in San Diego, along with those from other parts of the country.

San Diego residents are also invited to register for the Biobank's tissue collection program. This program allows for a greater understanding of the ability of Lyme bacteria to invade tissues and organs. The Lyme Disease Biobank is the only national entity working to accelerate research by collecting surgical and post-mortem tissue samples from individuals with persistent Lyme disease and other tick-borne infections.

Also in support of Lyme disease research such as this, community members will come together tonight, Friday, March 6 for Ride Out Lyme California at SoulCycle in La Jolla.

About Lyme Disease Biobank

The Lyme Disease Biobank (LDB), a program of the Bay Area Lyme Foundation, is a non-profit organization working to accelerate research of Lyme disease and other tick-borne infections. With a collection of biological samples from more than 900 participants, including serum, blood, urine and tissue, LDB provides much-needed samples to researchers working to better understand tick-borne diseases and develop improved tests and therapeutics. Blood and urine samples are collected from the Northeast, Upper Midwest and West Coast areas of the U.S., and tissue samples are collected throughout the country.

Healthcare providers looking to get involved, and patients interested in donating blood, urine or tissue samples can learn more here - https://www.bayarealyme.org/our-research/biobank/patient-information/

Researchers interested in obtaining samples should visit https://www.bayarealyme.org/ or contact info@lymebiobank.org.

About Lyme Disease

The most common vector-borne infectious disease in the country, Lyme disease is a potentially disabling infection caused by bacteria transmitted through the bite of an infected tick to people and pets. If caught early, most cases of Lyme disease can be effectively treated, but it is commonly misdiagnosed due to lack of awareness and unreliable diagnostic tests. There are more than 400,000 new cases of Lyme disease each year, according to statistics released in 2018 by the CDC. As a result of the difficulty in diagnosing and treating Lyme disease, more than one million Americans may be suffering from the impact of its debilitating long-term symptoms and complications, according to Bay Area Lyme Foundation estimates.

About Bay Area Lyme Foundation

Bay Area Lyme Foundation, a national organization committed to making Lyme disease easy to diagnose and simple to cure, is a leading public not-for-profit sponsor of innovative Lyme disease research in the U.S. A 501c3 non-profit organization based in Silicon Valley, Bay Area Lyme Foundation collaborates with world-class scientists and institutions to accelerate medical breakthroughs for Lyme disease. It is also dedicated to providing reliable, fact-based information so that prevention and the importance of early treatment are common knowledge. A pivotal donation from The LaureL STEM Fund covers overhead costs and allows for 100% of all donor contributions to Bay Area Lyme Foundation to go directly to research and prevention programs. For more information about Lyme disease or to get involved, visit https://www.bayarealyme.org/ or call us at 650-530-2439.

Bay Area Lyme Foundation, a leading sponsor of Lyme disease research in the U.S., announces the opening of the San Diego collection site of the Bay Area Lyme Foundation's Lyme Disease Biobank, which is the first program to provide researchers with blood and urine samples from people with early Lyme disease from multiple endemic regions across the country.

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

Team Rio National and Sports U announce merger to create Team Rio University

COLTS NECK, N.J. /ScoopCloud/ -- Team Rio National and Sports U are proud to announce a collaboration and combination of NJ's most successful grassroots basketball programs over the last decade with the creation of Team Rio University (Rio U). As an Under Armour Association sponsored program, Team Rio University is able to deliver a complete student-athlete basketball development and educational advancement program.

Players will have access and support to the finest coaches, trainers, mentors, and educators to reach their potential on the court, in the classroom, and in life.

Over the last decade, the combined programs have graduated over one hundred NCAA Division 1 scholarship athletes, seven McDonald's All Americans, and eight NBA players.

"Eight years ago we created Team Rio National because we wanted a comprehensive academic and basketball development experience for a group of passionate local players. Over the years, the formula has proven successful and we would like to extend the opportunities to more student-athletes in the tri-state area. By combining forces with Sports U, Team Rio University can extend its reach and help impact more youth players throughout the region," said Brian Klatsky, founder of Team Rio National.

Former Big East head coach and Team Rio coach, Mike Rice added "We have a tremendous amount of respect for Brian Coleman and his accomplishments with Sports U are immense. We now unite and marry the two strongest grassroots programs over the last decade in New Jersey. This is going to have a very positive impact on student-athletes in the Garden State."

Sports U founder, Brian Coleman, says "This merger is going to be a disruptor and game changer in the tri-state basketball community. I'm very excited for the future of Rio U basketball!"

Shannon Coyle, coach and director of Rio U Girls, added, "After a very successful launch of the Girls UAA circuit in 2019 and the inaugural seasons of Team Rio National girls, we are very excited to broaden our reach throughout the tri-state area with Sports U. The synergies, resources, and network that come with the combination of both boys basketball and Sports U, gives our girls an elite experience for them to maximize their potential."

Tryouts for the upcoming season start on February 29, 2020 and continue on March 7, 2020. Tryout details, location, and times, can be found at https://teamrionational.com/.

About Team Rio University:

As a 501(c)(3) organization, Team Rio University is an Under Armour sponsored program that assists student-athletes on and off the court in their pursuit of college and professional basketball. The boys and girls programs participate in the highly regarded Under Armour Association (UAA). Both the boys and girls UAA leagues generate hundreds of college coaches and scouts at their NCAA live session events to provide student-athletes a world class platform for competition and recruitment.

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0228s2p-team-rio-300dpi.jpg

Team Rio National and Sports U are proud to announce a collaboration and combination of NJ's most successful grassroots basketball programs over the last decade with the creation of Team Rio University (Rio U).

Related link: https://teamrionational.com/

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About the SUDC Foundation:

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

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

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

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

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

Related link: https://sudc.org/

$675 Billion Reasons to ‘Declare Your Share!’ with Upcoming 2020 Decennial Census

BURTONSVILLE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- U.S. Census Bureau, Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh, Montgomery County Councilmember Tom Hucker and AARP Maryland State President Jim Campbell Join Forces to promote senior participation in upcoming 2020 Decennial Census.

Event held at a community center in an area that is predicted to be undercounted; will highlight community programming funded by census dollars.

Who:
* Brian Frosh, Attorney General, State of Maryland
* Tom Hucker, District 5 Councilmember, Montgomery County Council
* Jim Campbell, AARP Maryland State President
* Maria Sofia, Executive Associate, Maryland Department of Planning
* Erin Smith, Montgomery County Area Agency on Aging
* Officials from the U.S. Census Bureau will also be in attendance.

What: Senior Census Awareness Event
When: Monday, February 24, 2020 at 10:30 a.m.
Where: Marilyn J. Praisner Community Recreation Center, Social Hall, 14906 Old Columbia Pike, Burtonsville, MD 20866
Why: Participation In the 2020 Census is Safe, Easy and Important!

BACKGROUND
April 1 is Census Day! The first United States (U.S.) Decennial Census was conducted in 1790. So the upcoming 2020 Census marks the 24th time that the U. S. has made a headcount of all residents in the Country as required by the constitution. Article 1, Section 2 requires that a census be carried-out every 10 years.

The results of the head count will determine allocation of $675 billion dollars of federal government funds to states, protectorates, and, the District of Columbia; as well as apportionment in state houses and the U.S. House of Representatives. Census results influence how dollars are allocated to local communities to fund specific needs, including roads, hospitals, emergency services, senior citizen centers, job training programs, and; Medicare Part B health insurance. It is estimated that Maryland lost nearly $1BN due to undercounts in hard to reach communities during the 2010 census.

Seniors are historically among the most undercounted groups during. It's important that we remind them that participation in the Census is Easy, Safe and Important! Soon, the Census Bureau will begin a process to invite people to respond to the 2020 Census. This year, respondents have the option be counted by paper questionnaire, telephone response, or online response (including smart phones).

For more information on the 2020 Census or to register for updates, go to https://www.2020census.gov/

QUOTES:

"The Census Bureau is committed to ensuring that all U.S. residents are counted once, only once and in the right place", says Fernando Gordon, Deputy Director of the U.S. Census Bureau. "We applaud all of our partners, including Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh; Montgomery County; Montgomery County District 5 Councilmember Tom Hucker; and AARP Maryland State President Jim Campbell for their outstanding commitment towards ensuring a complete count in all communities - especially those that are historically undercounted. Today, we especially encourage seniors in Montgomery County, Maryland to be counted in the upcoming Decennial Census!

"By the time of the next census in the year 2030, there will be more Americans over the age of 65 than under the age of 18. Communities are going to have to prepare infrastructure, services and supports to accommodate this historic shift in demographics and will require every federal dollar they are entitled to in order to do so," says AARP Maryland State President Jim Campbell. "That is why AARP Maryland is urging all residents to 'Declare Your Share' and participate in the 2020 census."

For More Information Contact:
Nancy Carr, AARP Maryland
443-787-5382
ncarr@aarp.org

Learn more about AARP at: https://states.aarp.org/maryland/

U.S. Census Bureau, Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh, Montgomery County Councilmember Tom Hucker and AARP Maryland State President Jim Campbell Join Forces to promote senior participation in upcoming 2020 Decennial Census.

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

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.

Susan G. Komen North Jersey Announces Award Honorees Robert C. Garrett, Amparo Aguirre and LAX For The Cure

PARSIPPANY, N.J. /ScoopCloud/ -- Susan G. Komen® North Jersey today announced its Pink Tie Party honorees to be recognized during the March 21st event being held at Ruth's Chris Steak House in Jersey City. For over twenty years, Susan G. Komen North Jersey has helped those who can't pay for treatments, worked to ensure that all people get the care they need, fought for the rights of patients with policy makers and funded breakthroughs in research that saves lives.

This signature event celebrates deserving honorees and raises funds for life-saving North Jersey community programs and national research.

This year's deserving honorees are:

Robert C. Garrett, FACHE, Founders Award Honoree. Bob is CEO of Hackensack Meridian Health and a lifelong advocate working to enhance healthcare service within the community. He is widely recognized for his visionary leadership not only within the field of healthcare, but within the many organizations he supports through his work on advisory boards and boards of directors. Our Founders Award recognizes individuals who have made an impact on healthcare services in the North Jersey community through a lifetime of effort and commitment.

"Susan G. Komen North Jersey's community programs are an example of the very best collaboration in our healthcare community. When nonprofits partner with healthcare systems to deliver initiatives that get into the community with education and prevention programs, the entire community benefits. Hackensack Meridian Health will continue to support the programs that emphasize increasing access to that care," says Bob Garrett.

Amparo Aguirre, Trailblazer Award Honoree. Amparo Aguirre is a Komen-funded

bi-lingual Breast Health Outreach Coordinator at Trinitas Regional Medical Center. Our Trailblazer Award recognizes individuals whose commitment has made an impact on breast cancer awareness, early screening and detection within the North Jersey community.

"I am so honored to receive this award from Komen North Jersey. Saving lives is a privilege that most people don't have the opportunity to enjoy. Providing education and access to screening, particularly in the Latino Community, is my passion and I am grateful for this opportunity that Komen North Jersey provides," says Amparo Aguirre.

LAX for the Cure, Champion Award Honoree. LAX for the Cure is a girls' lacrosse tournament that was founded in 2007 by Jessica Shoulberg, CFO of STEPS Lacrosse LLC. During the summer of 2007, the STEPS Lacrosse club had three mothers fighting breast cancer. The Shoulbergs wanted to help in the fight against the disease and decided to use the growth of girls' lacrosse and the summer tournament circuit as a vehicle. LAX for the Cure was launched to meet the ideals of players, parents, clubs, and college coaches, with the additional goal of raising funds and awareness for the fight against breast cancer.

To date, $3+ million has been raised; an amazing milestone and legacy for such an initiative. The LAX girls are driven competitors who embody the Champion Award that honors a competitive mindset and celebrates the heartfelt work and success of the organization. The girls are celebrated as champions within their sport and champions for the cause of breast cancer.

"Each has contributed immeasurably to our mission and to the fight against breast cancer. We provided them the opportunity to get involved in a life-saving cause and they ran with it. I am so proud of every one of the girls who, through their dedication, are giving hope to the thousands of people, right here, who rely on Susan G. Komen North Jersey to access quality, timely care," says Jessica Shoulberg.

"Our honorees represent the very best in leadership, passion and dedication that gives HOPE to thousands of women and men in North Jersey in need of breast health care or facing a breast cancer diagnosis," says Perla Haltner, Acting Executive Director of Komen North Jersey.

The honorees will be the stars of the evening alongside tasty food, cocktails, gaming and fun. It promises to be a memorable, feel-good night, thanks to the generosity of this year's Pink Tie Party sponsors including: Hackensack Meridian Health, RWJBarnabas, Investors Bank, Dun and Bradstreet, ROI-NJ and TAPinto.net.

About Susan G. Komen®

Susan G. Komen® is the world's leading nonprofit breast cancer organization, working to save lives and end breast cancer forever. Komen has an unmatched, comprehensive 360-degree approach to fighting this disease across all fronts and supporting millions of people in the U.S. and in countries worldwide. We advocate for patients, drive research breakthroughs, improve access to high-quality care, offer direct patient support and empower people with trustworthy information. Born out of a promise between two sisters, Susan G. Komen remains committed to supporting those affected by breast cancer today, while tirelessly searching for tomorrow's cures.

About Susan G. Komen® and Komen North Jersey

Komen North Jersey is helping fuel research, advocate for patients and support people facing breast cancer locally through a variety of direct patient-centered services and by collaborating with area providers to remove barriers and connect people to needed care across Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, Union and Warren Counties.

For more information, call 908-277-2904 or visit https://komennorthjersey.org/.

Susan G. Komen North Jersey today announced its Pink Tie Party honorees to be recognized during the March 21st event being held at Ruth's Chris Steak House in Jersey City. For over twenty years, Susan G. Komen North Jersey has helped those who can't pay for treatments, worked to ensure that all people get the care they need, fought for the rights of patients with policy makers and funded breakthroughs in research that saves lives.

Related link: https://komennorthjersey.org/

Iwo Jima Memorial Midwest Project, Inc. Building New Iwo Jima Memorial – Updated with Correct Flag-raisers

RACINE, Wis. /ScoopCloud/ -- In tandem with 75th Anniversary of the flag-raising on Mt. Suribachi, the Iwo Jima Memorial Midwest Project (IJMM) is launching a nationwide program to build a new Iwo Jima Monument. The new statue will replace the faces of two flag-raisers that were misidentified with the actual Marines who participated.

Harold "Pie" Keller and Harold Schultz were identified by HQ USMC with the aid of FBI forensics as the Marines raising the flag. Therefore, the new IJMM statue will be the very first monument built that reflects the exact image of the photograph.

The raising of the US flag over Mount Suribachi, was the first foreign flag ever to fly on Japanese soil. The photograph of the flag raising was taken by AP photographer Joe Rosenthal. It became an iconic image of not only the battle, but of the War in the Pacific and one of the most reproduced photographs in the world.

For 36 days in February-March of 1945, the Battle of Iwo Jima Island saw some of the fiercest fighting of the Pacific War. In the five week battle American casualties reached 26,040 of which 6,821 Marines were killed and 23,573 wounded 33% of their available force, or one in every three that landed.

The new Monument will be placed in Racine, Wisconsin, just north of Chicago and South of Milwaukee. Racine is the home of Marine Corps League Detachment 346 that has been doing a Living Memorial Float of the flag-raising for over 74 years. The Marines hold the position of the famous statue for up to two hours in parades and various events.

The very first Iwo Jima Monument statue was molded as a table top version for review and approvals by the USMC. Sculptor Felix De Weldon used Johnson Floor Wax to form this statue. SC Johnson Wax Corporate HQ is in Racine.

World renowned Sculptor, Robert Bricker of the Bronze Craft Foundry in Charlottsville, Virginia will produce the 40 percent size of original size bronze monument. Bricker was the sculptor selected by National Parks to work on the restoration of the original statue in Arlington. The figures will be 13 feet tall. It will take 16 months to produce and weigh 20,000 lbs.

The two year, $4 Million dollar fundraising project is supported by all volunteer Marines, Veterans, Veterans Support Groups and dedicated civilians. The fundraising efforts are nationwide, supported with a wide range of merchandise for donors. Solicitation of Corporate sponsors is underway.

Extensive information can be found at their website http://www.ijmmproject.org

Once completed the Monument location will be used as a venue to host a variety of Veterans events and expand educational support elements for elementary schools. The Project will in-turn institute fund gathering efforts to support needy Veterans

The Iwo Jima Memorial Midwest Project is a momentous undertaking that will benefit the preservation of the most recognizable, patriotic image in the history of World War II and the United States Marine Corps.

"With the generous help of Americans and Veterans, the Monument will help preserve the Spirit of America, it's symbol of Patriotism and Love of Country. It will forever pay tribute to the thousands of Marines and Veterans that paid the ultimate sacrifice to preserve the Freedoms we enjoy today," said John Capriotti, IJMM Project Director.

Media Press Kit Section with photos, videos and historical documents and links is available on the website http://www.ijmmproject.org/

Media Contact:
John Capriotti, Project Director
414 331-4757
jcapriotti@ijmmproject.org

IJMM Project Inc.
2635 Four Mile Rd. Box 44331
Racine, WI 53404-8777

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/iwojimamemorialmidwestproject/
Twitter @iwomidwest

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0218s2p-ijmmp-bonddrive-poster-300dpi.jpg

Video links
3:38 - IJMM Project Highlights video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NkOfi70FQw8&t=2s

Project Overview - 12-minute County Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IN1wdAY8V0Y&t=18s

In tandem with 75th Anniversary of the flag-raising on Mt. Suribachi, the Iwo Jima Memorial Midwest Project (IJMM) is launching a nationwide program to build a new Iwo Jima Monument. The new statue will replace the faces of two flag-raisers that were misidentified with the actual Marines who participated.

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

Groundbreaking New Book Fills Dire Needs in Unexplained Pediatric Deaths

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About the SUDC Foundation:

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

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

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

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

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

Related link: https://sudc.org/

Casa Romantica Shares the Beauty of Place in New Exhibit at John Wayne Airport

SAN CLEMENTE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, an award-winning southern California 501(c)(3) nonprofit, celebrated the opening of its new exhibit on display at John Wayne Airport on Saturday, February 8. "Our hope is that the 6 million people traveling through John Wayne Airport during the next several months will see the images in the exhibit and be encouraged to visit Casa Romantica in San Clemente," said Amy Behrens, Executive Director. "It is the convergence of art and place that makes Casa Romantica so unique."

The exhibit is located on the upper level of the Thomas F. Riley Terminal in the walkway between Terminal-B and Terminal-C, before security screening, and is visible to anyone traveling through the Airport through June 2020.

Casa Romantica past Executive Director Berenika Palys secured the exhibition for the institution. Palys, Behrens, and Board President Ruth DeNault presided over a private dedication ceremony with local officials on February 8 at the airport.

The exhibit features Casa Romantica's commissioned works and site-specific adaptations in the visual and performing arts that highlight its location perched atop a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, as well as its arts education programs for children and adults, at the historic Spanish Colonial Revival estate of San Clemente's City founder Ole Hanson.

Built in 1927, the Ole Hanson home, its gallery and 2.5 acres of botanical gardens are open to the public daily for self-guided or docent-led tours as well as private events. Visitors to Casa Romantica can enjoy wide-ranging cultural programming, including music, art, dance, theater, horticulture, and lecture series that bring international talent to south Orange County.

Free arts education programs for children are offered year-round, including its acclaimed Music Festival Academy, Summer Dance Workshop, STEAM-based field trips and more.

For additional information about Casa Romantica, visit https://www.casaromantica.org/.

To learn more about JWA's Art Programs, visit https://www.ocair.com/terminal/artexhibits/default.

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0212s2p-casa-leaders-300dpi.jpg
CAPTION: Casa Romantica and City leaders pose in front of one of the panels of the exhibit at John Wayne Airport (Left to right: Ruth DeNault, Casa Romantica Board President; Bonnie Koch, Casa Romantica Board member; Amy Behrens, Casa Romantica Executive Director; Kathy Ward, City of San Clemente Councilmember.

Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, an award-winning southern California 501(c)(3) nonprofit, celebrated the opening of its new exhibit on display at John Wayne Airport on Saturday, February 8.

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

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kentuckiana Kickoff Annual ‘Bowl for Kids’ Sake’

LOUISVILLE, Ky. /ScoopCloud/ -- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kentuckiana will kick-off their annual "Bowl For Kids' Sake" bowling fundraisers on Tuesday, February 4, 2020 at Ovrdrive (112 W. Jefferson Street Louisville, KY 40202).

WHAT: What: Bowl For Kids' Sake Kickoff (Louisville)

WHO: Jeri Swinton, Chief Executive Officer (Cell # 502-554-5192)
Rudy Spencer, Chief Development Officer (Cell # 502-303-3882)
Mike Kopp, former Little Brother

WHEN: Tuesday February 4, 2020. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with remarks at 6:15 p.m.

WHERE: Ovrdrive (112 W. Jefferson Street, Louisville, KY 40202)

Bowl for Kids' Sake is a fun and easy way for you, your company, friends, and family to support the life-changing work of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kentuckiana! Bowl for Kids' Sake - the organizations largest annual fundraiser- brings teams of bowlers together throughout the region to benefit thousands of children in need. With over 700 children currently on our waiting list, we need your help more than ever by participating in our annual community campaign.

"In addition to the bowling fun, we are expanding our For Kids' Sake campaign to include new team activities!" says Rudy Spencer, Chief Development Officer at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kentuckiana. "This year you can raise money and participate in virtual reality Axe Throwing & car racing at Ovrdrive here in Louisville. For our events in Southern Indiana, you can also fundraise in bumper cars, playing laser tag and many other fun activities at Clarksville Strike & Spare."

Funds raised during Bowl for Kids' Sake provide 20 percent of the organization's annual operational budget, playing a vital role in ensuring that every local child who is facing adversity and wants a positive role model, can receive the benefits of a caring adult mentor. All money remains in the local area to further the work of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kentuckiana.

For more information on bowling dates & times and how to register, please visit http://www.bowlforkidssake.com/.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kentuckiana:

Established in 1967, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kentuckiana is a non-profit organization that creates and supports one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. The largest donor - and volunteer-supported mentoring network in the U.S., Big Brothers Big Sisters makes professionally supported matches between adult volunteers ("Bigs") and children ("Littles"), ages 7 through 22, to all youth achieve their full potential. Learn more: https://www.bbbsky.org/

Media Contact:
Rudy Spencer
Rudy.Spencer@bbbsky.org
Office: 502-587-0494

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kentuckiana will kick-off their annual "Bowl For Kids' Sake" bowling fundraisers on Tuesday, February 4, 2020 at Ovrdrive (112 W. Jefferson Street Louisville, KY 40202).

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

Registration Open for The First Ever San Diego Truck Pull to Support Move For Hunger

SAN DIEGO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Move For Hunger announced today that registration is open for its first-ever San Diego Truck Pull fundraiser. The event, in which teams of 5-10 will compete to see who can pull an eight ton truck 100 feet in the fastest time, will be held at AleSmith Brewing Company (9990 AleSmith Ct., San Diego, CA 92126) on Saturday, February 29 from Noon-3 p.m.

Registration is $200 per team and can be completed at http://SanDiegoTruckPull.com (note: link redirects to GoFundMe page).

Proceeds from the event will benefit Move For Hunger, a national non-profit organization that has created a sustainable way for the relocation industry to reduce food waste and fight hunger.

Ace Relocation Systems, a national moving company headquartered in San Diego, will provide one of their trucks for the event. Ace Relocation and Dewitt Move Worldwide are among the more than 1,000 moving companies that have joined Move For Hunger's national network of relocation professionals. Ace Relocation Systems & Dewitt Move Worldwide encourage their customers to donate unopened, non-perishable food during the moving process and then volunteers to deliver the donations to the local food bank, free of charge.

This event will provide Move For Hunger with the resources it needs to continue to expand its network, organize food drives, and to coordinate food rescues.

"More than 4 million people in California are facing hunger every day, including 1 in 6 children," said Adam Lowy, Executive Director/Founder of Move For Hunger. "Meanwhile, we are wasting 40% of the food in the United States each year. The San Diego Truck Pull is going to be a fun event that will raise awareness about these issues, while also providing Move For Hunger with the support we need to collect 4 million pounds of food this year."

"We have a long-standing tradition of helping those in need in the San Diego community," said Jeremy Day, General Manager, Ace Relocation Systems. "This event fits right in with that. We are thrilled to participate."

"It's all about feeding the hungry," said Jeff Nadeau, General Manager, Dewitt Move Worldwide.

Since 2009, Move For Hunger has delivered more than 16.3 million pounds of food - that's the equivalent of 13.6 million meals - to food banks all across the United States and Canada. The funds raised at the San Diego Truck Pull will support Move For Hunger's hunger relief and food rescue programs, both in California and nationwide.

Move For Hunger is a national 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that has created a sustainable way to reduce food waste and fight hunger. We have mobilized the leaders of moving, relocation, and multi-family industries to provide their customers, clients, and residents with the opportunity to donate their food when they move. Members of Move For Hunger also organize community food drives, participate in awareness campaigns, and create employee engagement programs. For more information, or to find out how you can host your own food drive, visit http://www.moveforhunger.org/.

Ace Relocation Systems is a privately held, family owned and operated corporation headquartered in San Diego, CA. In addition to office and warehouse there, they have the same in eight additional locations from coast to coast. The metro markets they cover locally are Los Angeles/Orange County, The San Francisco Bay Area, San Diego, Seattle/Tacoma, Phoenix, Austin, San Antonio, Chicago, Orlando, Tampa, Baltimore and Washington, DC. Through the Atlas Van Lines network, they can service any location in North America. Ace Relocation also executes, or arranges for, a substantial amount of international relocations, numbering in the thousands. Their sister companies within ARCA International, international forwarding companies, assists with the shipments being transported by air and sea. The majority of Ace Relocation's revenue comes from servicing the moving needs of the US Government and Fortune 500 companies, including some of the most recognizable entities in the world. For more information, visit https://www.acerelocation.com/.

The DeWitt Companies began as a one-truck operation in 1927 and has transformed into an integrated network of five sister companies that provides relocation, logistics, warehousing and freight forwarding services to businesses, households and military clients all over the world. With wholly-owned assets in Hawaii, Alaska, Guam and the Mainland, our COD, DOD, GSA, and Corporate clients trust us for easy, affordable, and safe transportation of their goods. The DeWitt family of companies includes Royal Hawaiian Movers, DeWitt Guam, Royal Alaskan Movers, Approved Freight Forwarders, and DeWitt Move Worldwide (http://www.dewittmove.com), which operates in more than 100 countries.

PRESS CONTACT:
Dan Beam, Communications Manager
Move For Hunger
dan@moveforhunger.org or (732) 766-1278

Costs associated with dissemination of this news announcement were donated to Move For Hunger by Neotrope(r) and Send2Press(r), a proud supporter of the charity.

Move For Hunger announced today that registration is open for its first-ever San Diego Truck Pull fundraiser. The event, in which teams of 5-10 will compete to see who can pull an eight ton truck 100 feet in the fastest time, will be held at AleSmith Brewing Company, San Diego, on Saturday, Feb. 29.

Related link: https://moveforhunger.org/

HWPL Finally Here to Beautify California

SAN JOSE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- On Jan 26, 2020 a non-profit volunteer organization called Heavenly Culture, World Peace Restoration of Light (HWPL) had joined forces with the city of San Jose to beautify the community and the parks of San Jose.

What kind of results can an international peace organization do for the community of San Jose? The results would be partnering up with the San Jose City to create volunteerism of 100 people to clean and beautify a local park that is known and loved dearly. All in a matter of a few days of planning prior to the event.

Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light, colloquially referred to as HWPL, is a non-profit, non-governmental international peace organization. Although it was initially established in Seoul, South Korea, the peace group has branches located in over 200 countries, including one now established in the Northern California region.

As a group working alongside the United Nations to achieve global peace, HWPL collaborates with the International Women's Peace Group (IWPG) and the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG) as the organization's wings in accomplishing international tranquility. HWPL, within the last five years since the establishment of the organization, has found much success in achieving their goals toward peace and volunteerism. The HWPL volunteer programs are recognized as one of the most successful and active volunteer associations around the world.

With over 100 volunteers participating last Sunday, local neighbors, friends, and family filled bags of trash and debris to prevent pollution from washing into the creek and around the city park. With the help of the city providing supplies such as litter sticks, pairs of gloves, volunteer vests, and trash bags, HWPL volunteers were able to diligently give back to the community. Staff members gathered from 2:30 p.m. to collect the equipment and set up booths to distribute tools to pick up trash.

Participants started from 3 p.m. until sundown. Not only is the work of collecting the trash and debris beautifying the community, but it also helps with the anti-graffiti and anti-litter programs of San Jose in their mission to improve the health of the city's environment. This is done by preventing and removing trash throughout the neighborhood.

Arena Green Park, across the street from the San Jose Sharks stadium, is located in the heart of Downtown San Jose. Within the Silicon Valley, many residents struggle financially with the high cost of living beside the affluent, middle-class community. Despite the city's proactive approach to help the low-income and homeless citizens, some residents still face dire poverty.

"One of the biggest problems that the parks face are the trash produced by the homeless community. This is seen at Arena Green Park especially, where sports fans from all over the world visit," one HWPL volunteer stated. "It seems to be a never-ending problem."

With a goal of creating a cleaner and less-polluted environment for the people of San Jose, HWPL strives to collaborate with the city of San Jose to create a beautiful home for the residents of the city. Regardless of gender, race, religion, or political differences, the peace volunteer organization encompasses the human desire to volunteer and lend a helping hand.

Media Contact:
Jewoo Lee
sfhwpl@gmail.com

Anchor Links:
http://hwpl.kr/

https://www.facebook.com/hwpl.kr/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7zKCliSz18&feature=share

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

On Jan 26, 2020 a non-profit volunteer organization called Heavenly Culture, World Peace Restoration of Light (HWPL) had joined forces with the city of San Jose to beautify the community and the parks of San Jose.

Related link: http://hwpl.kr/

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

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

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

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

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

WHEN: The entire month of February 2020

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

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

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

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

About Spodak Dental

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

About All-Star Smiles Foundation

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

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

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

Jeff Pederson Joins Move For Hunger’s Board of Directors

RED BANK, N.J. /ScoopCloud/ -- Move For Hunger, a national non-profit organization that has created a sustainable way to reduce food waste and fight hunger, announced today that Jeff Pederson, Chairman and CEO of CORT Business Services, has joined its Board of Directors.

Headquartered in Chantilly, Virginia, CORT, a Berkshire Hathaway Company, is the largest provider of residential and office furniture rental, as well as tradeshow and event furnishings, in the United States. Pederson has been with CORT since 2002, serving as CORT's Chairman and CEO since 2012, and previously held executive management positions with Equity Residential Properties Trust and Globe Business Resources.

In 2018, Move For Hunger and CORT launched a partnership that provided residents at multi-family apartment communities across the country with the opportunity to donate their unopened, non-perishable food when they move out. More than 1,500 properties are now participating in the program, which CORT makes possible by volunteering to pick up and deliver the donations to a local food bank or pantry.

"Jeff, and his team, have been one of the driving forces behind the rapid growth of our Multi-Family Program, which provided more than 70,000 meals to families in need last year," said Adam Lowy, Executive Director/Founder of Move For Hunger. "He brings a wealth of experience to our Board of Directors, and his knowledge of the multi-family industry will be invaluable as we continue to expand within that space. Jeff is passionate about helping us rescue more food for the 40 million Americans who are facing hunger every day. We are so excited to welcome him to our Board."

"Once in a great while you get an opportunity to join an organization you truly believe in. Such is the case for me as I join the Board of Directors of Move for Hunger," Pederson said. "Adam and his organization have done an outstanding job for such a worthy cause. It's doubly rewarding to know that CORT has collected and delivered more than 100,000 lbs. of food to date since joining the Move For Hunger network. Our partners and everyone who rallies behind this cause is to be congratulated."

Originally from central Minnesota, Pederson grew up in Northern California. He attended the University of California at Davis and San Jose State University where he received his BS in Business Management in 1982. Jeff and his wife, Gail, have four grown children and three wonderful grandkids.

Pederson becomes the fifth member of Move For Hunger's Board of Directors, joining: Richard Schwartz, Owner, Schwartz Consulting Group; Benjamin Samuels, Director, Samuels Family Foundation; Stephan Lowy, CEO, Lowy's Moving Service; and Jenna Weinerman, Marketing Director, Updater.

About Move For Hunger:

Move For Hunger is a national non-profit organization that has created a sustainable way to reduce food waste and fight hunger. We have mobilized the leaders of moving, relocation, and multi-family industries to provide their customers, clients, and residents with the opportunity to donate their food when they move. Members of Move For Hunger also organize community food drives, participate in awareness campaigns, and create employee engagement programs. For more information, or to find out how you can host your own food drive, visit http://www.moveforhunger.org/.

About CORT:

CORT, a part of Warren Buffet's Berkshire Hathaway Company, is the nation's leading provider of transition services, including furniture rental for home and office, event furnishings, destination services, apartment locating, touring and other services. With more than 100 offices, showrooms and clearance centers across the United States, operations in the United Kingdom and partners in more than 80 countries around the world, no other furniture rental company can match CORT's breadth of services and companywide commitment to making a house a home, an office a great place to work and an event a memorable celebration. For more information, please visit http://www.cort.com/.

Move For Hunger, a national non-profit organization that has created a sustainable way to reduce food waste and fight hunger, announced today that Jeff Pederson, Chairman and CEO of CORT Business Services, has joined its Board of Directors.

Related link: https://moveforhunger.org/

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Campaign4Cursiv

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

About the American Handwriting Analysis Foundation:

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

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

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

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

New Cat Cafe Combines Cats and Coffee – What’s Not to Like?

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Small Lives Matter Kitten Rescue Inc., a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization specializing in saving sick and orphaned kittens, announces that they are partnering with Whiskers Cafe, LLC and Bold Bean Coffee Roasters to open Frisky Cat Cafe at 1092 S. Ponce De Leon Blvd. in St. Augustine, Florida. It's a first-of-its-kind cat cafe, combining a coffee beverage cafe with a cat lounge.

After forming the nonprofit kitten rescue in lighting speed from May to August 2019, this small, foster-based rescue surpassed all its goals, nearing 2,500 Facebook followers and saving 103 cats and kittens, in just four short months of operation.

"We're so excited to have this cool new venue," Carla Forrest, founder Small Lives Matter, says. "We hope the community embraces it as much as we think they will."

Frisky Cat Cafe is a unique service business that combines a coffee beverage cafe with a cat lounge where patrons can visit with cats whiling drinking their favorite beverage. People are encouraged to pick a day and time to visit with and play with the adoptable kitties in Frisky's Cat Lounge. People can visit for an hour or attend one of the specialty classes - Cats and Yoga or Kitten Palooza. There are a variety of different experiences from which to choose.

This new local, St. Augustine cafe will offer a variety of coffee beverages and bakery items. The coffee beverage cafe is a completely separate space from the cat lounge and all food is prepared off-site and packaged by The Knead Bakery.

The newly remodeled space is clean and chic. Furry friends, Nordic styles, comfy velvet furniture, luxe pillows, floor futons and coffee tables all add to the relaxing and inviting vibe.

"Our cafe cats are skilled furry therapists. Our customers meet, play, relax and cuddle with highly social, 'pawsome' cat residents and adoptable rescue cats by purchasing a cat experience," Forrest says.

The cat experiences fund the cafe's cozy environment and offer a unique therapeutic experience for cat lovers while sustaining a stimulating and comfortable home for lovable homeless cats until they are adopted. Proceeds from adoptions goes to Small Lives Matter Rescue to help fund their mission to save underage kittens and unwanted adult cats whose lives are ending at local shelters.

About Frisky Cat Cafe

Scheduled to open in February 2020, the Frisky Cat cafe is a cat lounge plus a cafe where great coffee and a fun and entertaining environment is created for its customers and cat residents.

Visit: https://www.friskycatcafe.com/

About Small Lives Matter Kitten Rescue Inc.

Small Lives Matter Kitten Rescue is committed to saving and finding homes for thousands of vulnerable kitten orphans that will die without their life-saving intervention. The nonprofit advocates education for sterilization and surrender prevention to end the kitten cycle. Their rescue is devoted to homeless kittens and providing the love and care they deserve.

Visit: https://www.thekittenrescue.org/

Watch a YouTube video:
https://youtu.be/BJh6elppj6I

MEDIA CONTACT:
Carla Forrest
of Frisky Cat Cafe
+1-904-923-7796
carlaforrest@thekittenrescue.org

Small Lives Matter Kitten Rescue Inc., a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization specializing in saving sick and orphaned kittens, announces that they are partnering with Whiskers Cafe, LLC and Bold Bean Coffee Roasters to open Frisky Cat Cafe at 1092 S. Ponce De Leon Blvd. in St. Augustine, Florida. It's a first-of-its-kind cat cafe, combining a coffee beverage cafe with a cat lounge.

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

National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association Inks Partnership Deal with Oscar Mike Foundation

TAMPA, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA) today announced the signing of a partnership agreement with the Oscar Mike Foundation (OMF) establishing NMEDA as the Official Vehicle Sponsor for OMF's signature event, the United States Quad Rugby Association National Championships.

OMF founder and CEO, Noah Currier, will be featured at the NMEDA Annual Conference & Expo, March 3-5 in Daytona Beach, on the highly anticipated, "Rolling Disrupters" panel discussion. The distinguished panel will also include Dr. Rory Cooper, chief of the Human Engineering Research Laboratories at the University of Pittsburgh; Sam Schmidt, former Indy car driver and founder of Conquer Paralysis Now; and famed wheelchair motocross athlete Aaron "Wheelz" Fotheringham.

"We couldn't be more excited to be partnering with Oscar Mike," said Danny Langfield, NMEDA CEO. "Noah and his folks are doing incredible work getting our injured veterans 'On the Move' (which is the literal translation of Oscar Mike in Military radio jargon). When we realized our organizations were so well aligned in our respective missions, this partnership came together very naturally."

"NMEDA is exactly the kind of organization we want on our team," stated Currier. "Getting veterans back on the road and ensuring they maintain their independence - that's what NMEDA members do, period. And that's a perfect fit with our mission."

OMF will also be a featured exhibitor at the NMEDA Conference, which includes the largest auto mobility Expo in the world.

Additionally, Conference attendees will receive a one-of-a-kind, custom NMEDA t-shirt created by the expert designers of Oscar Mike Apparel.

OMF is the latest addition to NMEDA's strategic partners, which also include Paralyzed Veterans of America, United Spinal, American Occupational Therapy Association, Association of Driver Rehabilitation Specialists, and Case Managers Society of America.

NMEDA is proud to join OMF's family of corporate sponsors including Ford, USAA, Amazon, Facebook, Google and dozens of others who support Oscar Mike's mission of keeping veterans on the move.

Contact: Katie McDonald, Manager of Communications & Social - NMEDA; katie.mcdonald@nmeda.org | 813.264.2697

About NMEDA:

NMEDA is a non-profit trade association of mobility equipment manufacturers, dealers, driver rehabilitation specialists, and other mobility professionals dedicated to improving the lives of people with disabilities and driving independence through the use of wheelchair accessible vehicles. Learn more: https://nmeda.com/

About Oscar Mike:

Oscar Mike strives to be a leading provider of funding for injured Veterans to participate in life-changing adaptive sports. We utilize 100% of donations to the Oscar Mike Foundation 501(c)(3) Public Non-Profit and proceeds from our Oscar Mike Apparel Sales to provide support to injured Veterans looking for an opportunity to stay active. By focusing on the arena of adaptive sports, the Oscar Mike Foundation assists in offering an outlet for an ongoing competitive lifestyle to thousands of American Veterans who have sacrificed for the defense of our country. Learn more: https://www.oscarmike.org/collections

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0115s2p-noah-and-amy-300dpi.jpg
*Caption: Oscar Mike Foundation CEO Noah Currier with NMEDA's Director of Government Relations, Amy Schoppman.

MEDIA CONTACT
Katie McDonald
Manager of Communications & Social
NMEDA
katie.mcdonald@nmeda.org
813.264.2697

The National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA) today announced the signing of a partnership agreement with the Oscar Mike Foundation (OMF) establishing NMEDA as the Official Vehicle Sponsor for OMF's signature event, the United States Quad Rugby Association National Championships.

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

Katie Otto Joins California Farmland Trust Team

ELK GROVE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The California Farmland Trust (CFT) is pleased to announce Katie Otto as their new Development and Operations Director. She joins the CFT team after 12 years with the California FFA Foundation (Foundation) and brings her deep roots and experience with agriculture, fundraising and finance management to the organization.

A native of Galt, Ms. Otto spent her early years growing up on her family's vineyard and thus began her love of the farming way of life and the values it instilled in her. Her agricultural career started after graduating with an Ag Business Degree from Fresno State University. Ms. Otto gained momentum in the ag industry after working with organizations like The Great Valley Center and the California Cattlemen's Association.

When asked about her career highlight, Katie referenced the success of the Foundation's Giving Tuesday campaign because of the immediate impact it had on FFA Students.

"The FFA jacket is symbolic for the organization and I wanted each chapter to be represented at our 2017 Gala, our signature event. However, these jackets are a financial burden for many students," said Otto. "To ensure each student had a jacket, we raised the funds necessary to provide jackets for all students from each chapter at the event."

This, along with having Mike Rowe of the Discovery Channel's Dirty Jobs serve as the Foundation's gala keynote speaker made an impressive impact on their Giving Tuesday campaign. Coupling these achievements with developing a relationship with Blue Diamond Growers to expand the campaign in recent years, has aided in ensuring that every FFA member could have a blue corduroy jacket of their own.

"Katie has a passion for agriculture and the meaningful work of non-profits in the industry," said Charlotte Mitchell, executive director. "She has a keen understanding of the challenges that face agriculture including the protection of farmland. Katie will be an important part of the California Farmland Trust team to continue our mission of protecting these important working landscapes."

Ms. Otto envisions a future for CFT that brings together a wide array of the public, landowners, and partners who make farmland conservation a priority. "I did not set out to be a fundraiser, but I have realized the general obligation I feel to either give back to or volunteer for the efforts that make this world better and it's an opportunity I can offer others. This effort is about sharing and storytelling and building relationships - these come easy to me because I am passionate about this work and it's part of who I am."

"We are excited and honored to have Katie onboard to direct our fund development efforts and assist in guiding the organization," said Mitchell.

For more information or photos, please contact:
Charlotte Mitchell, cmitchell@cafarmtrust.org or (916) 687-3178

Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter: @cafarmtrust

The California Farmland Trust is a California Non-Profit 501(c)(3). Our mission is to help farmers protect the best farmland in the world. To date, we have protected nearly 16,400 acres of farmland on 75 family farms.

Visit us: https://cafarmtrust.org/

The California Farmland Trust (CFT) is pleased to announce Katie Otto as their new Development and Operations Director. She joins the CFT team after 12 years with the California FFA Foundation (Foundation) and brings her deep roots and experience with agriculture, fundraising and finance management to the organization.

Related link: http://cafarmtrust.org/

CALNOC Announces the CALNOC Nightingale Research Fund: Raising Nursing’s Voice in Health Services Research

WALNUT CREEK, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- CALNOC is pleased to introduce The CALNOC Nightingale Research Fund, an innovative and opportune resource in health services research focused on and administrated by nursing. "We are excited to announce the Research Fund today in honor of Florence Nightingale and in celebration of the Year of the Nurse 2020. This fund will stimulate and support new research and clinical inquiry with emphasis on nursing's contribution," said Dr. Mary E. Foley PhD, RN, FAAN and Chairperson of CALNOC.

"This Fund will provide awards and matching funds to qualified individuals and non-profit institutions in support of clinical inquiry on nursing's contributions to improving clinical care of patients, population health management, staff engagement and satisfaction, and health care operations," added Tony Sung, Chief Executive Officer of CALNOC.

Each year CALNOC will commit substantial support to the fund and announce its research priorities for the current year. Individuals and non-profit institutions are encouraged to apply.

For more information, priorities for funding as well as application process, please go to our website at https://calnoc.org/.

About CALNOC:

Since 1996, CALNOC has been at the forefront of supporting inter professional, nursing focused patient care excellence, creating the first database registry of nursing sensitive quality indicators. As a health services research organization, CALNOC conducts and supports research and clinical inquiry with a focus on nursing's contribution to improving healthcare. Headquartered in Walnut Creek, California, CALNOC is a 501(c)(3) public benefit corporation.

For more information, call 833-225-6621 or visit https://calnoc.org/

CALNOC is pleased to introduce The CALNOC Nightingale Research Fund, an innovative and opportune resource in health services research focused on and administrated by nursing. We are excited to announce the Research Fund today in honor of Florence Nightingale and in celebration of the Year of the Nurse 2020.

Related link: https://calnoc.org/

Dayna’s iCare Foundation Partners with Amish Builder to Send Shippable Homes to Bahamas Hurricane Victims

WEST CHESTER, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- When Hurricane Dorian devastated the Bahamas, it destroyed thousands of lives and over 13,000 homes were lost. The region continues to be in the midst of a humanitarian crisis and thousands from Great Abaco are still displaced and struggling for shelter. Dayna's iCare Foundation, a 501(c)(3), is working to help solve the housing problem with its partner, TinyLux Homes.

Armed only with a concept and a dream, Dayna Spence, founder, Dayna's iCare Foundation (DIF), approached TinyLux Homes, an Amish Builder, with an idea she had for building shippable homes. What they came up with even surpassed her dreams and is now a reality.

TinyLux Homes is creating not-so-tiny, full, partially built, three-bedroom, 900-square foot homes that are weather tight with hurricane resistant windows. They're able to quickly be built on any existing foundation. The first DIF Home is about to ship and be constructed in the Bahamas.

DIF homes ship in 40-foot containers and when they arrive in the Bahamas, DIF has arranged for a local builder to construct the homes.

"He told us to send extra nails when we ship because even getting basic supplies like that is still something they need to depend on other regions for," Spence says.

DIF hopes to donate at least 10 homes to families with children, but can ship an unlimited amount of homes to the devastated area. Spence is currently seeking corporate partners and sponsors willing to donate homes to help families who lost everything. "Ten, five, even one donated or sponsored home would make a world of difference for an entire community. It's time for us to help our Caribbean neighbors rebuild," Spence says.

"The possibilities for these DIF homes is really endless. Once the word gets out about these shippable homes, it could be a real game changer for disaster victims around the world. These homes can also take the burden off crisis shelters in the U.S.," Spence says.

Hurricane Dorian victims who had homeowners' insurance may purchase DIF Homes "at cost" for $23,048 plus shipping. Interior packages are available and include things like flooring, kitchen and bathroom amenities, trim, ceiling fans and more.

"This is such an exciting time for us," Spence says. "TinyLux has gone above and beyond what my initial concept was and their expertise and skilled craftsmanship really shines through. We're more than just partners now - we're forever friends. I sense we're on the verge of something really great here."

Watch a news story about the project: https://youtu.be/m9M7x4_LTZY

For more information about Dayna's iCare: http://www.daynasicarefoundation.com/

For more information about TinyLux: https://www.tinyluxhomes.net/

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1220s2p-daynas-team-300dpi.jpg
Photo Caption: Sylvia Washington, DIF Volunteer; Grace Aranha, 1st DIF Home Recipient; Rev Dayna Spence, DIF Founder; and Dan Allgyer, TinyLux Homes

When Hurricane Dorian devastated the Bahamas, it destroyed thousands of lives and over 13,000 homes were lost. The region continues to be in the midst of a humanitarian crisis and thousands from Great Abaco are still displaced and struggling for shelter. Dayna's iCare Foundation, a 501(c)(3), is working to help solve the housing problem with its partner, TinyLux Homes.

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

Lifting People with Disabilities Out of Poverty: JLA Pooled Trust Hits $5 million in Beneficiary Assets

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- In recognition of the highly impactful, life-changing work provided to people with disabilities in the region, the Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles (The Foundation) has awarded Jewish Los Angeles Special Needs Trust & Services (JLA Trust) with a three-year, $250,000 Next Stage Grant.

"We're very proud that our Next Stage Grant will enable the long-term sustainability of JLA Trust and help it serve more individuals with disabilities and their families," said Marvin I. Schotland, president and CEO of The Foundation. "The Foundation provided seed-funding to JLA Trust in 2015 because we believe in its mission. JLA Trust provides guidance and resources to families as they navigate the daunting process of planning for the financial security of their loved ones with disabilities and secure the support they need to thrive. This much-needed service strengthens Jewish families across Los Angeles and our community as a whole."

The pooled trusts administered by JLA Trust help children and adults with a range of physical, mental, developmental and intellectual disabilities obtain a higher quality of life through affordable and professionally managed special needs trusts, which are a legal way to supplement means-tested government benefits. In less than 4 years of operations, JLA Trust recently crossed the $5 million mark in total beneficiary assets, and has already distributed $1.5 million for clients' expenses.

Background

In order to receive essential government benefits such as SSI, Medi-Cal and In-Home Supported Services (IHSS), single persons with disabilities are limited to only $2,000 in assets at any one time. To legally supplement those benefits with their own funds, or with money from family members, the only choices are the new CalABLE accounts (limited to $15,000 in a calendar year) and special needs trusts, which are traditionally very expensive to create and manage.

For those with less assets, an excellent solution is a Pooled Special Needs Trust, created by Congress in 1993. Using a Master trust document written by an expert attorney, JLA Trust acts as an "umbrella" over individual trust accounts, which are carefully managed in order to support persons with disabilities for as long as possible. Each client has a sub-account, and funds are only pooled for investment and cash management purposes.

All accounts receive professional trustee oversight and wealth management, along with a restricted-use VISA card from True Link Financial Services that is customized to meet the complicated rules of government benefit programs as well as the unique needs of each beneficiary.

Under the leadership of founding board Chair Sandor Samuels, a former CEO of Bet Tzedek Legal Services, JLA Trust enrolled its first client in August 2016, and has grown to 85 enrolled clients, with combined assets of more than $5 million. "Our community-based, personalized services are a game-changer for persons with disabilities in Los Angeles County and the region. We are thankful to the Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles for awarding us with a Next Stage Grant, which gives us the ability to hire a dedicated marketing and outreach professional who can help JLA Trust expand our services to help more people with disabilities."

Seed funding for the new nonprofit was provided by a 2015 three-year Cutting Edge Grant from The Foundation, along with planning and program grants from the Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles. Funding has also been provided by the Diane P. and Guilford Glazer Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles.

JLA Trust & Services has strong roots in the Jewish community and is open to all persons of all faiths, types of disabilities, and gender/sexual identification. For more information, go to https://www.jlatrust.org/.

About the Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles

Established in 1954, the Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles manages charitable assets of more than $1 billion entrusted to it by over 1,300 families. The Foundation partners with donors to shape meaningful philanthropic strategies, magnify the impact of giving, and build enduring charitable legacies. Over the past 15 years, it has distributed more than $1 billion to thousands of nonprofits across a diverse spectrum. http://www.jewishfoundationla.org/.

Client Stories:

Adam, 26 - A stroke left him with lifelong physical and intellectual disabilities. His family set up a Go Fund Me campaign to cover out of pocket medical costs and raised over $20,000. If the funds stayed in Adam's checking account, he would lose his vital Medi-Cal housing. His trust preserves his Medi-Cal benefits, plus the family uses trust funds for an aide and trips outside of the residential facility. "I am so grateful you exist," said his mother.

Janet, 48 - She has a genetic medical condition that causes great pain and seizures. Her father set up a 3rd party special needs trust for her with JLA Trust, and after his recent death, money from his life insurance policies are going directly into the trust, without jeopardizing her Medi-Cal. She said, "I am so grateful my Dad found JLA Trust and took care of everything ahead of time."

In recognition of the highly impactful, life-changing work provided to people with disabilities in the region, the Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles (The Foundation) has awarded Jewish Los Angeles Special Needs Trust & Services (JLA Trust) with a three-year, $250,000 Next Stage Grant.

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

Capital Automotive Group Donates $26,050 to Local Susan G. Komen Affiliate

RALIEGH, N.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Capital Automotive Group has generously donated $26,050 to the Susan G. Komen® NC Triangle to the Coast (Komen NCTC) local affiliate. The campaign, which was designated "Share the Awareness Breast Cancer Campaign" in October of this year, enabled the dealership to donate a portion of their proceeds for the month.

"Every year, more than 1,400 women will lose their lives to breast cancer in North Carolina. We must do everything we can to save lives. This means we are focused on finding breakthroughs for the most aggressive and deadly breast cancers and ensuring that all people receive the care they need," said Pam Kohl, executive director of Komen NCTC.

"At Komen we are committed to ensuring all people have access to screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Thanks to the generous support of Capital Auto Group, we are able to provide lifesaving services to those who need it most in our communities," added Kohl.

Capital Ford Raleigh, Capital Chevrolet, Capital Ford Rocky Mount, Capital Ford Hillsborough, Capital of Cary, and Capital Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM all participated in the event, contributing their individual donations to aid in the research.

Susan G. Komen NC Triangle to the Coast is committed to changing the unacceptable reality that more than 42,000 people in the U.S. are expected to die of breast cancer every year. In 2016, Komen set its bold goal to reduce breast cancer deaths in the U.S. by 50% by 2026.

About Breast Cancer and Komen NC Triangle to the Coast

By funding lifesaving research, empowering people with fact-based information, advocating for patient rights, and more, Susan G. Komen® NC Triangle to the Coast is fighting this deadly disease from every angle.

Every dollar raised helps to ensure all patients have access to the lifesaving care and services they need and supports breakthrough research to treat and cure breast cancer.

Komen NCTC grants 75 percent of net funds to community programs in our service area that have made a positive difference in the lives of those living with this deadly disease. The remaining 25 percent of net funds are invested in the Susan G. Komen National Grant Program.

In 2019-2020, Komen NCTC awarded $350,000 to fund 10 community health programs to meet the needs of people in our state. Click here to view our 2019-2020 grantee organizations and a brief description of the services they provide.

We help patients with medication costs, transportation, chemotherapy costs, lymphedema care, and more by offering assistance to those struggling with the financial burden of breast cancer treatment through our Treatment Assistance Program. - https://komennctc.org/grants/komen-treatment-assistance-program/

About Susan G. Komen® North Carolina Triangle to the Coast

Susan G. Komen is the world's largest breast cancer organization, funding more breast cancer research than any other nonprofit while providing real-time help to those facing the disease. Komen has set a Bold Goal to reduce the current number of breast cancer deaths by 50 percent in the U.S. by 2026. Komen was founded in 1982 by Nancy G. Brinker, who promised her sister, Susan G. Komen, that she would end the disease that claimed Suzy's life.

Komen North Carolina Triangle to the Coast (NCTC) is working to better the lives of those facing breast cancer in the local community. Komen NCTC has invested more than $14 million in community breast health programs in its 29-county service area and has helped contribute over $5 million to the more than $1 billion invested globally in research. For more information, visit www.komennctc.org or call (919) 492-2873.

Counties served: Bladen, Brunswick, Caswell, Chatham, Columbus, Duplin, Durham, Edgecombe, Franklin, Granville, Halifax, Harnett, Johnston, Lee, Moore, Nash, New Hanover, Northampton, Onslow, Orange, Pender, Person, Pitt, Sampson, Scotland, Vance, Warren, Wake, and Wilson.

For more information on Capital Automotive Group, please visit their website at: https://capitalautogroup.com/

Capital Automotive Group has generously donated $26,050 to the Susan G. Komen(R) NC Triangle to the Coast (Komen NCTC) local affiliate. The campaign, which was designated "Share the Awareness Breast Cancer Campaign" in October of this year, enabled the dealership to donate a portion of their proceeds for the month.

Related link: https://capitalautogroup.com/

Dryades YMCA Partners with the Recirculating Farms Coalition

NEW ORLEANS, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Dryades YMCA is partnering with the Recirculating Farms Coalition (RFC), a sustainable farming and food justice advocacy organization. RFC will relocate its farm - Growing Local NOLA - to YMCA-owned land on Jackson Avenue, where it crosses Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard in Central City, just a few steps from the Dryades Y building.

"We've wanted a community garden for some time so that our Central City youth and neighbors can strengthen their sense of community, be more active, and ultimately access affordable fresh produce. This an ideal partnership - RFC has the skills and experience, and we have the space and opportunity to further our work to address youth food insecurity," said Alicia Oliver, Operations and Mission Advancement Director of the Dryades Y.

The new farm will provide fresh fruit, vegetables, herbs and more for YMCA snacks and meals, classes and youth food pantry. RFC's team will also collaborate with YMCA staff on building a community green space with classes in gardening, health-supportive cooking and holistic wellness.

"We are so excited to be working with the Dryades YMCA," says Marianne Cufone, Executive Director of the Recirculating Farms Coalition. "This partnership will bring locally grown, healthy food to children through seniors in the YMCA programs and also offer a wide range of food and farm related classes and events to the Central City neighborhood and beyond."

Work on the new growing spaces is already underway with a Dow Promise grant and a donation of raised garden beds by Folgers Coffee. The organizations have volunteer days planned to help with preparing the site and planting. Classes and events should begin early in the new year.

About the Dryades YMCA

Since 1905, the Dryades YMCA has been an integral part of New Orleans and the greater metropolitan area by providing thousands of youth and their families meaningful opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive. The Dryades Y is for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. We are dedicated to building healthy, confident, connected and secure children, adults, families and communities in New Orleans and the Metro region. https://www.dryadesymca.org

About the Recirculating Farms Coalition

The New Orleans-based Recirculating Farms Coalition is a collaborative group of farmers, educators, non-profit organizations and others committed to building local sources of healthy, accessible food. Through research, training and advocacy, we work to support development of innovative, eco-efficient farms. These recirculating farms can create stable green jobs and supply sustainably-grown food - fruits, vegetables, herbs and humanely-raised seafood - in diverse communities. RFC also offers community programming including farming, exercise, and cooking classes; workshops; and a weekly garden basket. For more information, visit http://www.recirculatingfarms.org/.

Media Contacts:

Marianne Cufone
media@recirculatingfarms.org
504.515.0161

Alicia Oliver
aoliver@dryadesymca.com
504.430.3326

The Dryades YMCA is partnering with the Recirculating Farms Coalition (RFC), a sustainable farming and food justice advocacy organization. RFC will relocate its farm - Growing Local NOLA - to YMCA-owned land on Jackson Avenue, where it crosses Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard in Central City, just a few steps from the Dryades Y building.

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

Capital Chevrolet Buick GMC of Lexington Partners with American Children’s Home to Host Holiday Toy Drive

RALEIGH, N.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Capital Chevrolet Buick GMC of Lexington is partnering with American Children's Home in hosting a toy drive to benefit local foster children. The Lexington community is being asked to participate in the spirit of the holiday by donating a variety of items in order to give these children a happy celebration.

For those who are willing to contribute, the following items are being requested: diapers, baby toys, learning toys, toys for elementary-aged children, books for elementary-aged children, Chick-fil-a gift cards, Walmart gift cards, GameStop gift cards, and more!

A truck will be on display waiting to be stocked at the Lexington dealership location, 96 Radio Drive, Lexington, N.C. where all are welcome to drop off their items. Donations will be accepted from now through December 23.

Store hours are Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-7 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

The American Children's Home is a licensed and COA accredited, non-profit providing residential cottages and family foster homes from birth to age 21. With a capacity of 50 residents, their 6 cottages are home to these children from a few days to a few years. They are currently housing 35 children and may get up to 6 more by Christmas, in addition to placing 30 children living with foster families.

For more information about American Children's Home, please visit their website at: https://www.ach-nc.org/

For more information about Capital Chevrolet Buick GMC of Lexington, please visit their website at: https://www.capitalchevroletbuickgmcoflexington.com/

Capital Chevrolet Buick GMC of Lexington is partnering with American Children's Home in hosting a toy drive to benefit local foster children. The Lexington community is being asked to participate in the spirit of the holiday by donating a variety of items in order to give these children a happy celebration.

The 2019 DangerMan Hero Awards Show and Concert Celebrates TV’s First Black Superheroes Actors Carl Lumbly and Simone Missick

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Fourth Annual DangerMan Hero Award Show and Concert will be super special this year! Among the numerous honorees for the night being acknowledged for their community activism are two celebrated thespians who have portrayed history making superheroes on television.

Actors Carl Lumbly, the star of "M.A.N.T.I.S." the first primetime African-American superhero on network television and CBS "All Rise" star Simone Missick, TV's first black female superhero, Misty Knight, on Marvel's "Luke Cage," will be celebrated alongside nine additional illustrious recipients. The occasion is produced by actor, mentor and philanthropist Roger I. Tinsley, the founder of the DangerMan Urban Superhero brand and CEO/President of the DangerMan Education Foundation, Inc., a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization.

The show will take place at the California African American Museum located at 600 State Drive in Los Angeles. The red carpet and VIP Reception start at 5:30 p.m. with the concert and show starting at 6:45 p.m. and ending at 10 p.m. Aetna Foundation is the event sponsor.

The DangerMan Hero Award Show and Concert will be hosted by America's premier R & B historian, Tyrone DuBose. Posthumously receiving the top 2019 DangerMan Hero of the Year award is Rep. Elijah E. Cummings, a United States House of Representatives from 1996 until his death in 2019. In addition to Lumbly's and Missick's superhero portrayal acknowledgment, Missick will also receive Best Actor Award for her role as the activist judge, Lola Carmichael, in the CBS legal drama, "All Rise."

The other 2019 honorees include LA City Council President Herb J. Wesson Jr.; youth organizer, Croyce Allen; writer/actress, Adilah Barnes ("Roseanne"); president and CEO California Black Chamber of Commerce, Jay King; education advocate, Rita Loof; Worthy of Love founder, Sister ("Sista") Mary; executive director of Anti Recidivism Coalition, Sam Lewis, and teacher/entertainment specialist, Nicshelle "GoDaWork" Farrow. HBO's "Insecure" will receive the DangerMan Hero Award Best Comedy Series.

For the first time, this year's ceremony will be accentuated with a live concert. Performances include Wu-Tang rapper, Solomon Childs; Aretha Franklin tribute artist, Vicky Love; R & B soul singer, Marva King, R & B soul band LeGrand Sinatra, comedian Sherwin Arae and a special guest appearance by Charles Wright, president of the Watts 103rd Street Band.

"This year is the 21-year anniversary for DangerMan, the fastest growing superhero brand in the world," cites Tinsley. "We are really excited about adding concert entertainment to our affair and we look forward to celebrating the noteworthy accomplishments of all our honorees. DangerMan has remained committed to keeping our streets safe and these heroes are helping to get the job done! The DangerMan Superhero brand is a symbol for justice not for some, but for all Americans."

As a 'real life' urban superhero, DangerMan is an advocate for children's rights promoting literacy, safety and good health. He wages against bullying and also fights human trafficking. DangerMan visits schools and community events encouraging his audience with a motto of "No gangs, guns, drugs, alcohol or tobacco." He has traveled throughout America and Haiti, empowering children to live their best life. "Protect, Promote and Provide" are the pillars DangerMan lives by.

"The DangerMan Chronicles," an internet crime series, is available on DangerMan's YouTube Channel (https://www.youtube.com/user/urbansuperhero ). To hear the DangerMan theme song, remixed by Wu-Tang rapper Solomon Childs, go to https://youtu.be/--05oyAeSZM .

The DangerMan Hero Award Show and Concert will be live streamed and covered on various social media platforms. For tickets to the Fourth Annual DangerMan Hero Award Show and Concert go to http://www.dangermanheroawards.com/ and http://www.thedangerman.com/.

MEDIA CONTACT
Makeda Smith
Jazzmyne PR
makeda@jazzmynepr.com
323-380-8819

The Fourth Annual DangerMan Hero Award Show and Concert will be super special this year! Among the numerous honorees for the night being acknowledged for their community activism are two celebrated thespians who have portrayed history making superheroes on television.

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

Registration Open For The First Ever Tampa Truck Pull

TAMPA, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Move For Hunger announced today that registration is open for the first-ever Tampa Truck Pull, presented by First Class Moving Systems. The event, in which teams of 5-10 will compete to see who can pull a moving truck 100 feet in the fastest time, will be held at Tampa Joe's Restaurant and Sports Bar (9316 Anderson Road, Tampa, FL 33634) on Saturday, December 7 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Registration is $20 per team and can be completed at http://TampaTruckPull.com.

Proceeds from the event will benefit Move For Hunger, a national non-profit organization that has created a sustainable way for the relocation industry to reduce food waste and fight hunger.

First Class Moving Systems will provide one of their trucks for the event. As a member of Move For Hunger's national network of relocation professionals, First Class Moving Systems encourages their customers to donate unopened, non-perishable food during the moving process and then volunteers to deliver the donations to the local food bank, free of charge.

The inaugural event will allow various community groups to come together for one specific cause, including teams of firefighters, police officers, CrossFit, Boot Camp or other athletes, corporate groups, families, and more. Community members are encouraged to attend, cheer on their favorite teams, and enjoy music, food, beer, and raffles, all in support of Move For Hunger.

"Ten teams will participate and try to put up the fastest time, with support and encouragement from the crowd," said Christ Hunt, partner and CEO of First Class Moving Systems. "This will be a fun way to raise awareness about hunger and food waste in our community and to support a great organization, Move For Hunger."

More than 2.8 million people in Florida, including 1 in 5 children, do not have reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food. Meanwhile, 40% of all the food in the United States is wasted. The funds raised at the Tampa Truck Pull will support Move For Hunger's hunger relief and food rescue programs, both in Florida and nationwide.

About Move For Hunger:

Move For Hunger is a national 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that has created a sustainable way to reduce food waste and fight hunger. We have mobilized the leaders of moving, relocation, and multi-family industries to provide their customers, clients, and residents with the opportunity to donate their food when they move. Members of Move For Hunger also organize community food drives, participate in awareness campaigns, and create employee engagement programs. For more information, or to find out how you can host your own food drive, visit http://www.moveforhunger.org/.

About First Class Moving Systems:

At First Class Moving Systems, we are the leading Tampa moving company to manage your next relocation. We provide storage, relocation, distribution, packing and moving services to homeowners, members of the military and businesses of all sizes. We are full-service Tampa movers with the professional staff, expertise and wide range of services to make sure that our customers receive complete first class treatment.

PRESS CONTACT:
Dan Beam, Communications Manager
Move For Hunger
dan@moveforhunger.org or (732) 766-1278

Move For Hunger announced today that registration is open for the first-ever Tampa Truck Pull, presented by First Class Moving Systems. The event, in which teams of 5-10 will compete to see who can pull a moving truck 100 feet in the fastest time, will be held at Tampa Joe's Restaurant and Sports Bar (9316 Anderson Road, Tampa, FL 33634) on Saturday, December 7 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Related link: https://moveforhunger.org/

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About The Whole Child

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

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

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

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

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

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

Casita Maria Celebrates Garifuna Culture with Gallery Exhibition and Public Programming

BRONX, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education and Garifuna Coalition USA, Inc. are delighted to announce Garifuna Intangible Heritage, an exhibition celebrating the cultural expression of the Garifuna people of Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, St Vincent and the Grenadines and the United States. The art gallery exhibition and related public programs comprise the Winter season of ¡CelebrARTE!, Casita Maria's South Bronx arts and culture series.

Through ¡CelebrARTE! and other public programs, Casita Maria has become a premier location for the arts and culture of the South Bronx. "The Casita Maria Gallery features and promotes local, national, and international artists whose work reflects and honors the vibrant communities of Hunts Point and the South Bronx. Our programming and the artists we showcase are a testament to the transformative power of the arts," says Creative Arts Director Gail Heidel.

Garifuna Intangible Heritage will showcase the work of two self-taught Garifuna artists, Pen Cayetano and Isidra Sabio, whose brightly-colored paintings and digital prints highlight Garifuna culture, cultural expressions, and daily life.

The Garifuna Beat!, a companion photography exhibition in Casita Maria's Young Artist Gallery, will depict the joyful self-expression of the Garifuna Punta Dance Style.

Garifuna Intangible Heritage will honor the 18th anniversary of UNESCO's proclamation of the Garifuna Language, Music, and Dance as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. This Heritage consists of the intangible and tangible aspects of the whole body of cultural practices, resources and knowledge systems developed, nurtured and refined by Garifuna people, and that are transmitted from generation to generation as a crucial component of their sense of identity and continuity.

Winter 2019-2020 season of ¡CelebrARTE! (Celebrate Yourself) series
On view at the Casita Maria Gallery December 5, 2019 - February 28, 2020

Free Public Events
Hours: Monday - Friday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
* Exhibition Opening Reception and Artist Talk: Thursday, December 5, 2019, 5:30 - 8 p.m.
* Workshop: ¡ExpresARTE! Express Yourself Through Garifuna Dance: Wednesday evenings beginning December 11, 6:30-8 PM. Workshop series on Garifuna dance styles, led by acclaimed performer Luz F. Soliz.
* ¡ExpresARTE! Performance: We will celebrate the end of the workshop with performances by ExpresARTE participants and Soliz's WABAFU Garifuna Dance Theater.
o February 28, 2020, 4-5:30 p.m.: Casita Maria program performance, open only to participants in Casita Maria's after-school program.
o February 28, 2020, 7 - 9 p.m.: Community performance-- free and open to the public.

Both performances will take place in the auditorium:

Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education
928 Simpson Street
Bronx, N.Y. 10459

Book Club: One Book One Bronx, Wednesday evenings, 6:30 - 8 PM. Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29, Feb. 5.
Featured book: Searching for Zion: The Quest for Home in the African Diaspora by Emily Raboteau.

Each week, the group will meet at Casita Maria to discuss a book related to themes reflected in art work featured in the Gallery. Reading selections reflect the Bronx's racial, economic, and gender demographics while (re)sparking a love of literature. The first 15 attendees to each series will receive a free copy of the book; participants are free to join even if they have missed earlier sessions.

Learn More: https://www.casitamaria.org/gallery

Casita Maria Center For Arts & Education - a 501(c)(3) non-profit - creates a safe and welcoming community, enriching and uplifting youth and families towards success through shared cultural, art and educational experiences and programs. We are the first and oldest Latino charity in New York, founded in 1934.

Garifuna Coalition USA, Inc. advocates for issues that affect the Garifuna community by projecting a united voice. The coalition contributes to the improvement of the social, economic, political and cultural conditions of New York's Garifuna Community.

One Book One Bronx is presented by the Literary Freedom Project, which is committed to creating spaces that help leverage the power of books, culture, and education. LFP's programs value the variety of histories and cultures found in the Bronx and give residents places to build community and explore social engagement.

Casita Maria's exhibition and public programs are made possible by support from the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs, the New York State Council on the Arts, and the Lily Auchincloss Foundation.

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1115s2p-garifuna-sabio-300dpi.jpg
*Caption: Garifuna Village by Isidra Sabio.

Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education and Garifuna Coalition USA, Inc. are delighted to announce Garifuna Intangible Heritage, an exhibition celebrating the cultural expression of the Garifuna people of Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, St Vincent and the Grenadines and the United States. The art gallery exhibition and related public programs comprise the Winter season of ¡CelebrARTE!, Casita Maria's South Bronx arts and culture series.

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

November Is C. diff. Awareness Month

NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The C Diff Foundation reemphasizes that the month of November is "C. diff. awareness month" and is being recognized with its partners around the globe again in 2019.

Nancy Caralla, Founding President, Executive Director of the C Diff Foundation, and three-time C. diff. Survivor said, "The month of November was chosen for two reasons. On November 1, 2012 the C Diff Foundation came to fruition. Also, after suffering through the second newly diagnosed CDI with nine-recurrences over a year's time, the month of November was chosen because it was the first month that I received a negative CDI test result without further recurrences."

Caralla further explained that over the past seven years other organizations and survivors, with their families, have joined the C Diff Foundation in "Raising C. diff. Awareness," especially in the month of November originally coined by the C Diff Foundation worldwide.

At the 7th Annual International C. diff. Awareness Conference and Health EXPO held in St. Louis, Missouri on November 6-7, the conference program included Government Agency healthcare professionals and representatives who delivered presentations focused on, but not limited to, Clostridioides difficile. Global organization health care professionals in attendance also recognize November is C. diff. Awareness Month through their presentations, posters, and by introducing products and/or services preventing, treating, diagnosing a CDI and maintaining safer environments in the healthcare community.

C Diff Foundation expresses their gratitude to the numerous state Governors who have recognized C. diff. infections as a leading Healthcare-associated infection by raising awareness during the month of November in their respected states.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Clostridioides difficile infection (aka C. diff., C. difficile, CDI, CDAD) "has become the most common microbial cause of healthcare-associated infections in U.S. hospitals and costs up to $4.8 billion each year in excess health care costs for acute care facilities alone."

Statistics provided by the CDC suggest that C. difficile infections cause nearly 500,000 infections in patients in the U.S. annually. In one study noted by the CDC, among infected patients, nearly 29,000 died within 30 days of being diagnosed, and more than half of those deaths (15,000) were directly attributable to a C. difficile infection.

Learn more at: https://cdifffoundation.org/

About The C Diff Foundation:

C Diff Foundation, a 501(c)(3) established 2012, comprised of 100% volunteering professionals is dedicated at supporting public health through education and advocating for Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) prevention, treatments, clinical trials, AMR, and environmental safety worldwide. Listen to "C.diff. Spores and More" Tuesdays at 1 p.m. EST (http://www.cdiffradio.com/), sponsored by Rebiotix, a Ferring Pharmaceuticals company.

Follow C Diff Foundation on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Twitter @cdiffFoundation #Cdiff2019

Media Contact:
Kathy Bischoff
C Diff Foundation
kathy@cdifffoundation.org
Office: (727) 205-3922

The C Diff Foundation reemphasizes that the month of November is "C. diff. awareness month" and is being recognized with its partners around the globe again in 2019.

Related link: https://cdifffoundation.org/

The Pap Corps’ End of Year Giving Campaign Designated for Sylvester’s 3rd Game Changer Vehicle

DEERFIELD BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Pap Corps (thepapcorps.org) is proud to announce the Dr. Kevin Berkowitz Memorial End of Year Giving Campaign will help fund the purchase, retrofit and operation of Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center's 3rd Game Changer Vehicle.

This air-conditioned RV will service medically underserved communities in north Broward and Palm Beach counties offering free cancer screenings, education and referrals, in addition to providing free medication to prevent HIV to at risk patients.

"Expanding access to cancer screenings that lead to early detection is truly a game changer. Early cancer detection is vital to better cancer outcomes and this program has already proven that with their efforts in Monroe and Miami Dade counties," said Pap Corps CEO David Bakelman. "The Pap Corps is honored to make this funding commitment to Sylvester and our community."

Pap Corps President Linda Moses announced at the November Presidents' Meeting that the nonprofit has designated a donation of $500,000 towards the 3rd Game Changer vehicle, covering the purchase, retrofit and two years of operation. The recreational vehicle will be equipped with two private rooms for consultations and cancer screenings, along with a comfortable multimedia center for interactive education about cancer-related topics.

"The outside of this 3rd vehicle will be co-branded with logos of both The Pap Corps and Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center," said Moses. "This will further expand awareness about the special relationship between our nonprofit and the only NCI-Designated cancer center in South Florida."

This is the fifth year of the Dr. Kevin Berkowitz Memorial End of Year Giving Campaign. The program was created by Beverly Berkowitz, The Pap Corps' Officer-at-Large to honor the memory of her late son.

"I am so proud this year's campaign will fund this ground-breaking program which has garnered national acclaim and is now being studied and replicated by other cancer institutions," said Berkowitz. "There is a tremendous lack of access to formal healthcare for so many in our community. This vehicle will help bridge that disparity."

To learn more and donate to help fund the next Game Changer please go to https://thepapcorps.org/get-involved/end-of-year-giving/

About The Pap Corps:

Since its founding in 1952, The Pap Corps has donated more than $110 million to Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, including a historic $50 million pledge in 2016 dedicating The Pap Corps Campus at Sylvester in Deerfield Beach. The Pap Corps derives its name from Dr. George Papanicolaou, a pioneer in cytopathology and early cancer detection, who introduced the world to the revolutionary 'Pap' test. A small group of women began the organization to support his efforts, and over the decades it has grown into an organization of over 20,000 men and women, in over 50 chapters, who raise funds to support all types of cancers.

For more information about the organization's history, fundraising initiatives and volunteer opportunities, please visit https://www.thepapcorps.org/

The Pap Corps is proud to announce the Dr. Kevin Berkowitz Memorial End of Year Giving Campaign will help fund the purchase, retrofit and operation of Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center's 3rd Game Changer Vehicle.

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

The Rancher Advocacy Program Pioneers Groundbreaking Solutions for Farmers and Ranchers in Crisis

WAELDER, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- The Rancher Advocacy Program (RAP), a five-year initiative of Rowdy Girl Sanctuary, Inc., is the first and only enterprise providing the knowledge of their Rancher Advisory Council working together with industry experts to transition cattle ranches and animal farms away from animal agriculture into viable veganic, compassionate businesses.

The Rancher Advisory Council is comprised of business experts in their fields who are also former ranchers or members of former ranching families.

Rowdy Girl Sanctuary announces the dates of its first annual RAP Summit, slated for September 18-20, 2020 in Austin, Texas. The RAP Summit is the first of its kind to bring cattle ranchers, animal farmers, plant-based industry experts, manufacturers, activists, and environmentalists together to debate and determine solutions to the imminent concerns around global food production, the economy, animal protection and our climate.

About Rowdy Girl Sanctuary:

Rowdy Girl Sanctuary, which has been featured nationally on CBS Evening News, Animal Planet, ABC's More in Common and other nationally syndicated shows, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation and vegan farm animal sanctuary in the heart of Texas.

As Rowdy Girl Sanctuary moves into the new year, their evolution from farm animal rescue and sanctuary to a state-of-the-art, animal care facility, a plant based/environmental resource education center and endowment for ranchers and farmers transitioning begins. Rowdy Girl Sanctuary inspires other ranchers to experience a paradigm shift, and, through the Rancher Advocacy Program, provides them the expertise and tools to evolve away from the cruelty of factory farming to a financially stable business. Rowdy Girl Sanctuary was founded by Renee King-Sonnen and Tommy Sonnen in 2014.

Kip Andersen, Save Movement, Jane Unchained News, Miyoko's, VegFund, Egg-Truth, Womxn Funders in Animal Rights, Vegan Investors, Effect Partners, Pollution.tv, It's Jerky Y'all, Free From Harm, Cowspiracy, Waking Justice and Agriculture Fairness Alliance joins Rowdy Girl Sanctuary in support of the Ranchers Advocacy Program and in launching this trailblazing conference.

For more information on Rowdy Girl Sanctuary, go to https://rowdygirlsanctuary.org/.

For more information on the Rancher Advocacy Program go to https://rancheradvocacy.org/.

Rowdy Girl Sanctuary as featured on CBS Evening News with Steve Hartman, On the Road, https://www.cbsnews.com/news/cattle-ranchers-vegan-wife-turns-ranch-into-animal-sanctuary/

Images/Videos
* Rancher Advocacy Program Logo - https://rancheradvocacy.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Rancher-Advocacy-Program-Logo.png
* RAP Summit 2020 Logo - https://rancheradvocacy.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/RAP-Summit-Logo.png
* Renee King-Sonnen, Founder of Rowdy Girl Sanctuary, and the Barretts (Ranchers in Transition) - https://rancheradvocacy.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/03_Farmers-in-transition-Renee-With-Jennifer-and-Rodney.jpg
* The Schacherl Family of Starlove Ranch (Ranchers in Transition) - https://rancheradvocacy.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/04_Ranchers-in-transition-Hollie-and-Davey.jpg
* Renee King-Sonnen, Founder of Rowdy Girl Sanctuary, and the Traylors (Ranchers in Transition) -https://rancheradvocacy.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/05_Ranchers-in-transition-Richard-and-Cindy.jpg
* Rancher Advocacy Program Video - https://youtu.be/cpv3k5VAxeU

MEDIA ONLY CONTACTS:
Renee King-Sonnen
Founder of Rowdy Girl Sanctuary and Rancher Advocacy Program

Jeri Devereaux
Organizational Developer, Rowdy Girl Sanctuary and Rancher Advocacy Program
+1-281-684-9101
info@rancheradvocacy.org

@RowdyGirlRanch #animalrights #humanrights #climatechange

The Rancher Advocacy Program (RAP), a five-year initiative of Rowdy Girl Sanctuary, Inc., is the first and only enterprise providing the knowledge of their Rancher Advisory Council working together with industry experts to transition cattle ranches and animal farms away from animal agriculture into viable veganic, compassionate businesses.

Related link: https://rowdygirlsanctuary.org/

Local Phoenix Radio Host, Rich Berra, Releases Second Holiday Children’s Book for Charity

PHOENIX, Ariz. /ScoopCloud/ -- Rich Berra, co-host of the nationally syndicated Johnjay and Rich Show on iHeart Radio, has released his second holiday children's book, "Christmas Steve Meets Christmas Carol" (ISBN: 978-0578571904). Berra's book is the sequel to "The Tale of Christmas Steve," released in 2017. Proceeds from the sale of each book go to the #LoveUp Foundation (loveupfoundation.org) - a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization co-founded by Berra and his on-air partner, Johnjay Van Es - which helps foster children and families in need.

Following the first whimsical book about a small elf with a big heart, "Christmas Steve Meets Christmas Carol" tells the story of a 6-foot-2 tall elf girl named Carol who, while big on the outside, is scared on the inside to let her talents shine. With a little help from Christmas Steve, Carol learns what happens when you let go of fear and start dreaming out loud. Illustrated by Design Art Studio and published by Branded Pros, the 32-page hardcover book retails for $17.99.

Since 2017, Berra has donated nearly $50,000 in book-generated profits to the #LoveUp Foundation. This year, with the arrival of "Christmas Carol," the radio host and author is implementing a buy-one, give-one campaign: Every book purchased at christmassteve.org will be matched with a second book donated to a Children's Miracle Network Hospital, St. Jude's Children's Hospital, a Title 1 school or one of #LoveUp's affiliated programs.

"This year, we wanted to go beyond the monetary donation and share what's at the heart of these books - a love of reading - with kids everywhere," said Berra. "The story, the proceeds and the gift of the book itself to children in need all combine to make the ultimate impact."

In addition to featuring the two hilarious and heartwarming children's books, Berra's Christmas Steve brand has expanded to include fashion t-shirts with funny elf sayings, kids' and baby clothing, natural wood toys and more elf-themed merchandise.

For more information about the buy-one, give-one campaign or to make a purchase, visit christmassteve.org. For media inquiries, contact Stacey Kole at Branded Pros at stacey@brandedpros.com.

More information: https://christmassteve.org/

Social: @realchristmassteve
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/RealChristmasSteve
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/realchristmassteve/

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1104s2p-Christmas-Carol-Cover-300dpi.jpg
*Image caption: "Christmas Steve Meets Christmas Carol" is the newly released children's book by radio host Rich Berra.

Rich Berra, co-host of the nationally syndicated Johnjay and Rich Show on iHeart Radio, has released his second holiday children's book, "Christmas Steve Meets Christmas Carol" (ISBN: 978-0578571904). Proceeds from the sale of each book go to the #LoveUp Foundation.

Related link: https://christmassteve.org/

Celebrity Chris Spencer Partners with Dorsey Academy of Entrepreneurs on Golfing for Families

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- In an historic move, on Monday November 11, 2019 Veterans Day, Golfing for Families and Dorsey Academy of Entrepreneurs will hold its fourth annual charity event in Sun Valley at Angeles National Golf course. This year's event will be hosted by Celebrity Comedian / Producer Chris Spencer and friends.

"As we enter our fourth year of raising money for families, we recognize the challenges presented by the social economic disparities in our communities," states Dr. Norris Dorsey. "The Dorsey Academy for Entrepreneurs continues to change this narrative by educating people on how to start businesses and run them successfully. We know the old saying "give them a fish they can eat for a day, teach them to fish and they can eat for a lifetime."

"This is one of the most important golf tournaments I've ever been a part of," said Chris Spencer. "Golfing for Families is for people who look like me, and we really need more people like me. My celebrity friends and I will raise money for those families in need during the holidays."

"I love what Dr. Dorsey stands for (education) and the causes he is raising awareness for," adds Spencer.

Since its inception, the "for Families" initiatives (including Bowling, Skating, and Concert) have raised over $34,000 to feed the families affected by lack of food security in the very communities in which Dorsey Academy runs programming. In 2019, Golfing for Families (#GFF) goal is to raise over $40,000 to help feed over 800 people over the holidays.

Dorsey Academy partners with other local non-profits to feed families and individuals on Los Angeles's Skid Row every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday as well as for the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays.

Partners include: We Feed the Hungry, The Peggy Beatrice Foundation, and My Friend's House.

Ticketing information available at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/golfing-for-families-tickets-71919119021 or http://www.dorseyacademy.org/

Join us Monday, November 11, 2019 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. at Angeles National Golf Club 9401 Foothill Boulevard Sunland, CA 91040

About the Dorsey Academy of Entrepreneurs:
The purpose of the Dorsey Academy of Entrepreneurs is to deliver affordable education to individuals who want to be entrepreneurs. Our goal is to make education great and educational again. Our focus is on entrepreneurship by meeting the needs of the communities, including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods. Motto: "Start your business and business classes simultaneously."

VIDEO (YouTube):
https://youtu.be/7K-U7HMnSoM

Media Contact:
Norris Dorsey
Dorsey Academy of Entrepreneurs
Los Angeles, CA
(888) 348-5688
Email: norris.dorsey@dorseyacademy.org

In an historic move, on Monday November 11, 2019 Veterans Day, Golfing for Families and Dorsey Academy of Entrepreneurs will hold its fourth annual charity event in Sun Valley at Angeles National Golf course. This year's event will be hosted by Celebrity Comedian / Producer Chris Spencer and friends.

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

National Deaf Chamber of Commerce Names Board of Directors

AUSTIN, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- The National Deaf Chamber of Commerce (NDCOC), the first organization truly dedicated to advocating and protecting the interests of the Deaf business community, is pleased to announce its Board of Directors, Gina D'Amore, Michael Pimentel, Evan Winegard, and Jared Allebest.

The NDCOC was formed in late 2018 and is in the early stages of enlisting business and programming partners, and these early relationships will be driven by the NDCOC's current board. As part of its next steps, the NDCOC is seeking qualified and enthusiastic additions to its board, individuals who offer unique and diverse strengths and perspectives to help the NDCOC realize its vision.

Gina D'Amore said, "It has been exciting to work with our Board of Directors. They all have unique backgrounds with diverse experiences in the business community that make them an asset to the National Deaf Chamber of Commerce while promoting the needs and interests of the Deaf business community as a whole. We are committed to transparency, inclusivity, and ensuring that the needs of the Deaf business community are met through our new board members."

The NDCOC is currently pursuing partnerships with other local chambers, businesses, and organizations to provide a set of benefits and group services to members of the National Deaf Chamber of Commerce. Partnership goals include provisioning these services in a way that directly supports the needs of Deaf business owners, such as provided resources translated into ASL, or a videophone hotline staffed by Deaf business experts.

About the NDCOC board

Gina D'Amore is the Chief Executive Officer at Mid-Atlantic Interpreting Group, Inc., an SBA 8(a) company. Gina has grown her business to over $4 million, and grew up in both Erie, PA and Houston, Texas in an entrepreneurial environment as she witnessed her families run different businesses. She resides in Maryland, has a son, and also works as a Certified Deaf Interpreter in her goal to provide the best to the Deaf community when it comes to interpreting services.

Michael Pimentel is the Chief Executive Officer of Heart Cruises, LLC, which specializes in cruises, land tours, and all-inclusive resorts all around the world. Michael was also a world-class professional sports photographer for 17+ years and his photos were published in Sports Illustrated and ESPN Magazines. Michael is passionate about international travel and has visited 70+ countries. He is also in the process of launching Blue Wolf Branding, and resides in Union City, California, with his family of six children.

Evan Winegard is the Chief Financial Officer for several companies including CHILMARKeting, a digital advocacy and outreach agency that offers creative and marketing services for business and organizations. Evan was previously the CFO for several multi-million-dollar companies including Maraolo, Biscuits & Bath, Communication Service for the Deaf, and Convo Communications. He also serves as a board member on both the Greater Austin Foundation for the Deaf and the Texas School for the Deaf Foundation.

Jared Allebest is the Chief Executive Officer of Allebest Law Group, a solo practitioner with legal experience in business law, estate planning, discrimination legislation, and advocacy. Jared currently practices law in Arizona, California, and Utah. He previously served as the Chairman for Loop Utah, an ongoing advocacy campaign dedicated to educating those in Utah about the benefits of hearing loop technology.

The goals of the NDCOC are to promote professional opportunities, financial growth, leadership, and legislative awareness that benefits all members of Deaf communities. The National Deaf Chamber of Commerce is in the process of applying for 501(c)(6) status and is not affiliated with any existing organizations. For more information, visit: https://deafchamber.com/

For individuals interested in becoming a Board Member, or for partnership opportunities, please contact the NDCOC board at board@deafchamber.com.

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1101s2p-NDCOC-logo-300dpi.jpg

The National Deaf Chamber of Commerce (NDCOC), the first organization truly dedicated to advocating and protecting the interests of the Deaf business community, is pleased to announce its Board of Directors, Gina D'Amore, Michael Pimentel, Evan Winegard, and Jared Allebest.

Related link: https://deafchamber.com/

Integrated, High-Quality Health Care for Everyone? It Can Be Done!

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- "GAME OF PROFESSIONALS. HEALTHCARE IN A CREATIVE SOCIETY" global event will be hosted on the platform of ALLATRA International Public Movement on November 2, 2019 at 10 a.m. EDT.

In transforming our society from a consumer-based system to a creative and constructive one, priority shifts to long-term health by creating a healthier society that includes quality health care for every person regardless of nationality, affiliation, or socioeconomic status.

With a consumer-based economic system, profits and consumption are the main driving factors. In a creative and constructive society, the highest value is placed on human life.

The current health care system is driven purely by profit, resulting in care which is unaffordable or altogether unattainable for many in our global family. A creative and constructive society inherently creates a healthy environment that promotes caring for the long-term health of each and every person on the planet. With the actions of society based on fundamental human values such as kindness, compassion, and love, human life and well-being take on the highest value.

"The United States is fast becoming one of the worst health care systems in the world. Not only is it the only industrialized nation that does not provide some form of universal health care to its citizens, but they also have one of the highest rates for health care expenditures." -- From the article "Healthcare Statistics" (https://www.healthcareproblems.org/health-care-statistics.htm).

* Health care expenditures in the United States are the highest of any developed country, at 15.3% of GDP. The country with the next highest spending in Switzerland, at 11.6% of GDP. (Source: Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development)

* The United States does not spend health care money efficiently. An estimated one-third of 2006 health care expenditures, about $700 billion or nearly 5% of GDP, did not improve health outcomes. (Source: Congressional Budget Office.)

* Prescription prices for drugs still under patent protections (as opposed to generic medications) are about 35% to 55% higher in the United States than they are in other countries. (Source: Congressional Budget Office).

Our discussion will include the following:
* What should health care be like in a creative and constructive society?
* What can be done on a global scale to make healthcare system free, easily accessible, and of high-quality in every part of the world?
* What do doctors need to help their patients stay healthy?
* How do preventive measures and increased awareness affect the nation's health?
* What can patients do to help the doctor keep them healthy?

ALLATRA International Public Movement is a format of interaction and dialogue outside of politics and religion among people of diverse social status, occupations, and nationalities. We are people from all over the world, more than a million strong, who realize the importance of reviving humaneness in our society and moral values throughout the world community.

"With healthy thoughts, there is a sound spirit and with a sound spirit, there is a healthy body." -- Sensei I by Anastasia Novykh.

This worldwide conference will be attended by physicians from many fields of medicine, pharmacists, economists, and businessmen, as well as representatives of charitable societies and organizations that advocate the protection of human rights. This live video broadcast will bring together caring people from around the world who will highlight proactive initiatives in the transformation of society from a consumer system to a creative and constructive society by peaceful means thus creating conditions for true unification of all humankind!

Join a worldwide conversation as we focus on solutions for today's health care problems and discuss innovative ideas for creating a high-quality, inclusive health care system of tomorrow.

"GAME OF PROFESSIONALS: HEALTHCARE IN A CREATIVE SOCIETY."

To be held on November 2, 2019, beginning at 10 a.m. EDT (light refreshments will be served) at the Historic Academy of Medicine in Atlanta, Georgia: 875 W Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30309

Live broadcast at: https://allatraunites.com/

Atlanta 10:00 | New York 10:00 | London 14:00 | Moscow 17:00 | Kyiv 16:00 | Beijing 22:00

Contact us: info@allatraunites.com

The official website of ALLATRA International Public Movement: https://allatra.org/

The official website of ALLATRA International volunteer TV ALLATRA TV: https://allatra.tv/en/

MEDIA CONTACT:
For media inquiries, please contact:
Marina Ovtsynova
770-317-4768
allatratvusa@gmail.com

We invite all interested and caring people to join our world-wide online conference, as we discuss the challenges with the current healthcare system together with innovative ideas for creating a new environment of health and well-being including an integrated, inclusive health care system as part of a global creative and constructive society. Each person can really do a lot!

THE FUTURE DEPENDS ON THE PERSONAL CHOICE OF EACH INDIVIDUAL!

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1025s2p-allatra-event-300dpi.jpg

"GAME OF PROFESSIONALS. HEALTHCARE IN A CREATIVE SOCIETY" global event will be hosted on the platform of ALLATRA International Public Movement on November 2, 2019 at 10 a.m. ET.

Related link: https://allatra.org