Tag Archives: NonProfit and Charities

Non-Profit Announces New Safety-Reviewed Wheelchair Vehicle Resource

TAMPA, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA) announced today the debut of an online resource designed to help people with disabilities and their caregivers make informed choices when shopping for a wheelchair accessible vehicle.

http://www.nmeda.com/safetyreviewedvehicles is an online listing of all vehicle conversions that have been reviewed for compliance to applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards by NMEDA's Compliance Review Program engineers. The site contains a comprehensive list of all known vehicle conversion companies and the individual conversions that have been reviewed, including make, model, year and conversion type.

"NMEDA is delighted to be able to offer a free, easy-to-use resource for helping folks make informed choices about the conversions they are considering," said Danny Langfield, NMEDA CEO.

"We are also very excited about the number of companies that have already approached us about getting their conversions posted. We believe the ability to offer the widest possible range of compliant manufacturer products is essential for the success of our mobility dealer members and the satisfaction of the public they serve."

NMEDA's review process is critical, Langfield explained, because the wheelchair vehicle conversion industry is self-certifying, meaning that while companies must certify to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that their conversions are compliant, no proof is required to be submitted.

"For us, a manufacturer's statement is just not sufficient," Langfield stated. "We created this resource to allow companies to submit objective evidence that their conversions are indeed crash-worthy. When you are talking about the safety of an at-risk population like our customers, not to mention the public with whom they share the road, crossing your fingers and 'hoping' a conversion is safe isn't good enough - we want to see the data."

"The message is simple - 'Check the list!'" added NMEDA President Chad Blake of Ability Center. "When shopping for a wheelchair accessible vehicle, safety is definitely not the corner you want to cut."

About NMEDA:

The National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association is a non-profit organization of mobility equipment manufacturers, dealers, driver rehabilitation specialists, and other mobility professionals dedicated to improving the lives of people with disabilities through the use of wheelchair accessible vehicles. NMEDA administers the Quality Assurance Program (QAP), the only nationally recognized accreditation program for the adaptive mobility equipment industry.

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

Media Contact:
Katie McDonald
Communications & Social Manager
813-264-2697
katie.mcdonald@nmeda.org

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1024s2p-NMEDA-logo-300dpi.jpg

The National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA) announced today the debut of an online resource designed to help people with disabilities and their caregivers make informed choices when shopping for a wheelchair accessible vehicle.

Related link: https://nmeda.com/

Whole Brain Consulting to Host Styles 4 Kidz Annual Fall Gala at Historic Elizabeth Cheney Mansion

OAK PARK, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Whole Brain Consulting, a food industry consulting firm, is sponsoring the 4th annual Styles 4 Kidz Fall Gala charity event Saturday, November 2. The event will take place from 6-9 p.m. at Elizabeth Cheney Mansion, 220 N. Euclid Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302. With its recent feature on Doctor and the Diva, Styles 4 Kidz - as featured on GMA Strahan and Sara - gears up to raise charitable funds to ensure its high quality, compassionate textured hair care education and services are accessible to a rapidly growing number of children and families across the nation seeking the non-profit's guidance and expertise.

Styles 4 Kidz is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides high-quality, compassionate hair care education and services for kids with textured hair in foster care and transracial adoptive or biracial families throughout the United States.

The event will be broadcast via Facebook Live on the official Styles for Kidz Facebook page @styles4kidz.

Funds raised from this year's event will help expand the Styles 4 Kidz salon services and workshops to reach more transracial adoptive and foster families, as well as expand services to more children in need who live in group foster care.

The gala Emcee is Keno Greer, radio host on Rejoice 102.3 FM and Rejoice102.com. The charitable event will also feature a dinner (generously donated by KitchFix), silent and online auction, music by D.J. Carnell, and testimonials from Styles 4 Kidz families.

Auction includes notable items from Chicago White Sox, Chicago Cubs, The Second City, Cooper's Hawk, and many more. To sign up for our online auction, go to https://www.32auctions.com/S4KGala2019.

"Join us in making a difference for kids in transracial adoptive and foster communities across the USA! Help us meet our $30,000 gala fundraising goal so we can serve 500+ kids throughout the next year," says Tamekia Swint, Styles 4 Kidz Executive Director. "Your contributions allow Styles 4 Kidz to continue and expand our high quality, compassionate hair care education and services to kids with textured hair in the Chicagoland area and nationwide. You are the reason we can offer hair care with heart to our foster and adoptive families!"

Tickets are available now at bit.ly/S4KFallGala.

Contact jenridder@styles4kidz.org for sponsorship package and pledge inquiries.

Sponsors are needed and welcomed. Whole Brain Consulting, third party outsourced operations consultancy serving the food industry, is a repeat sponsor of the Styles 4 Kidz Fall Gala.

Learn more at https://www.styles4kidz.org/ and find #Styles4Kidz on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

About Whole Brain Consulting:

Whole Brain Consulting, a consulting firm specializing in outsourced operations in the food industry, operates from offices in Chicago and Boulder. From supply chain and operations management to food safety, quality, and regulatory compliance, Whole Brain Consulting utilizes the cumulative expertise of over two dozen industry experts to solve problems for rising food companies. Learn more about Whole Brain Consulting at https://whole-brain-consulting.com/.

Contacts:

William Madden
Co-Founder, Whole Brain Consulting
will@whole-brain-consulting.com
https://whole-brain-consulting.com/

Tamekia Swint
Executive Director, Styles 4 Kidz, NFP
773-552-4257
tamekiaswint@styles4kidz.org
https://www.styles4kidz.org/
#Styles4Kidz @styles4kidznfp

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/V7vmHyMsF4o

Whole Brain Consulting, a food industry consulting firm, is sponsoring the 4th annual Styles 4 Kidz Fall Gala charity event Saturday, November 2. The event will take place from 6-9 p.m. at Elizabeth Cheney Mansion, 220 N. Euclid Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302.

Related link: https://whole-brain-consulting.com/

AGS Laboratories Releases Digital Diamond Grading Reports – Digital Format Serves as the Official Document #AskForAGS

LAS VEGAS, Nev. /ScoopCloud/ -- AGS Laboratories announces the launch of their grading reports in a digital platform. The digital documents serve as an official grading report and will be formatted the same as AGS Laboratories' printed documents.

"We're excited to add digital documents to our product offering. Digital documents help us in our commitment to environmental management by reducing paper, as well as, reducing operational costs for everyone in the supply chain across a variety of processes: shipping, storing, and replacement of lost documents," said Jason Quick, AGS Laboratories Executive Director.

The document resides on AGS Laboratories Only My Diamond(R) (OMD) so that consumers are getting the benefits of the platform, including an actual video of the diamond, a clear-cut explanation of the 4Cs, the diamond's clarity plot, laser inscription, and social media sharing options. Previous versions of OMD had an online copy of the grading report, while the official document was in printed form.

"By incorporating the official digital grading report into the OMD experience, the retailer can present the diamond with a grading report that their customers will find both fun and interesting," said Quick.

Another benefit of the digital report is that no app is needed: the document can be accessed through the Report Verification function on agslab.com or from display cards in the store, which features a QR Code linking to the document. If a consumer, retailer, or the supplier wants a physical grading report, one can be ordered from AGS Laboratories.

The first digital documents are already in use by Helzberg Diamonds(R) for the Kalahari Dream(R) collection, in advance of the holiday shopping season.

To learn more about AGS Laboratories and the products and services that they offer, including the digital documents, visit https://www.americangemsociety.org/page/aboutagslabs or contact support@agslab.com.

About AGS Laboratories:

AGS Laboratories is a nonprofit diamond grading laboratory created with a mission of consumer protection. The American Gem Society saw a need in the jewelry industry for a diamond grading laboratory that shared their mission and values, and created AGS Laboratories in 1996 to fill that need. AGS Laboratories is the world's leading diamond grading laboratory for the Cut grade and revolutionized the diamond industry when it released its groundbreaking light performance grading system for diamond cut. The AGS Ideal(R) means a diamond is superior to other diamonds.

For more information on AGS Laboratories and its products and services, please visit https://www.agslab.com or email support@agslab.com.

AGS Website: https://www.americangemsociety.org/

Facebook: @AmericanGemSociety1934 - http://www.facebook.com/AmericanGemSociety1934

Instagram: @AmericanGemSociety - https://www.instagram.com/americangemsociety

Twitter: @AmerGemSociety - https://twitter.com/AmerGemSociety

Twitter tags: #askforAGS @Helzberg #AGSlaboratories #AmericanGemSociety #AGSideal

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1021s2p-AGS-Laboratories-300dpi.jpg

AGS Laboratories announces the launch of their grading reports in a digital platform. The digital documents serve as an official grading report and will be formatted the same as AGS Laboratories' printed documents.

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

Keep Our Seniors Safe Act Signed by Governor Newsom

SAN DIEGO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Consumer Advocates for RCFE Reform (CARR) announces that California Governor Newsom signed the Keep Our Seniors Safe Act, a part of SB 172 (Portantino) which was signed into law on 12 October, 2019.

The Keep Our Seniors Safe Act strengthens the Health and Safety Code by adding safe gun storage requirements for firearms retained by residential care facilities for the elderly (RCFE - also known as assisted living facilities).

CARR sponsored this common-sense safe gun storage legislation in recognition that an estimated 70% of assisted living residents have a diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease or related dementias (ADRD). Dementia is a primary reason families seek an assisted living placement for a family member.

Many assisted living facilities are licensed to accept and retain residents having mild to severe cognitive impairment. Common characteristics include disorientation, confusion, changes in mood or personality and impaired judgment. CARR's public records' research evidenced that some assisted living facilities were storing firearms in unlocked desk drawers, or allowing residents to retain weapons in their rooms.

The characteristics and associated behaviors of a resident with cognitive impairment, coupled with unsecured weapons inside an RCFE posed an unreasonable risk of harm to residents, families and any third party working in or visiting an assisted living facility.

The Keep Our Seniors Safe Act fills the statutory and regulatory gaps concerning firearm storage by requiring weapons to be centrally stored in the facility, in a locked gun safe meeting the regulatory standards established by the California Department of Justice.

The statute advances CARR's consumer-driven agenda focused on reducing health and safety risks to residents living in California's licensed assisted living facilities.

"This legislation (Chapter 840) gives the state's agency (Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing Division DSS/CCLD) responsible for licensing assisted living facilities definitive and unequivocal standards for determining compliant gun storage," said CARR's President, Christine Murphy.

This is CARR's second piece of legislation to become law; the first was AB 1523 (Atkins) requiring assisted living facilities to carry liability insurance.

About CARR:
Consumer Advocates for RCFE Reform (CARR) is a San Diego-based 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization promoting transparency and accountability for consumers using assisted living services, and specializing in public document research on assisted living facilities, and the state's oversight of the industry. Learn more at: https://rcfereform.org/

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1018s2p-CARR-RCFE-Reform-300dpi.jpg

Consumer Advocates for RCFE Reform (CARR) announces that California Governor Newsom signed the Keep Our Seniors Safe Act, a part of SB 172 (Portantino) which was signed into law on 12 October, 2019.

Related link: https://rcfereform.org/

Independent Research Proves Kids Read Now Reading Program Eliminates Summer Slide

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

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

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

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

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

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

About Kids Read Now

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

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

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

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

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

Related link: https://kidsreadnow.org/

Registration Open for First Ever Charlotte Truck Pull – Fundraiser to support Move For Hunger, presented by MYMOVE

CHARLOTTE, N.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Move For Hunger announced today that registration is open for the first-ever Charlotte Truck Pull, presented by MYMOVE. 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 Lenny Boy Brewing Co. (3000 South Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC, 28217) on Saturday, November 16 from Noon-4 p.m.

Registration is $100 per team and can be completed at CharlotteTruckPull.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.

"MYMOVE is thrilled to deepen our partnership with Move For Hunger and continue supporting our very own community during the inaugural truck pull here in Charlotte," said Ben Mark, MYMOVE's Director of Partnerships. "We hope this represents the first of many future opportunities to combine our two brands, engage people about the Move For Hunger cause, and further the effort to fight hunger."

Suddath Relocation Systems of Charlotte will provide one of their trucks for the event. As a member of Move For Hunger's national network of relocation professionals Suddath provides their customers with the opportunity to donate unopened, non-perishable food during the moving process and volunteers to deliver the donations to the local food bank, free of charge.

"At Suddath Relocation Systems of Charlotte, we are invested in our local community and giving back to those around us," said Monty Miller, Suddath's Vice President & General Manager, Network Operations. "It is an honor to be a Move for Hunger partner and we look forward to making a lasting impact on the lives that we touch with this partnership."

More than 1.5 million people in North Carolina, 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 Charlotte Truck Pull will support Move For Hunger's hunger relief and food rescue programs, both in North Carolina 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 MYMOVE

MYMOVE, LLC, owned by Red Ventures, LLC, is a media company with unbeatable technology, data and marketing expertise. We have an exclusive relationship with the USPS(R) that allows us to connect brands with roughly 39 million movers every year. We help the USPS(R) facilitate the official Change of Address process. Through this partnership, we're able to reach millions of movers at the most important point of their move. We help movers get unbeatable savings on products and services they need - and we help brands get in front of the right audience. We have 25 years of experience connecting movers with top brands in retail, entertainment, banking, insurance, telecommunications, home security and more. And we have a talented team of marketers, analysts, engineers, designers and copywriters who get the job done. For more information, please visit https://www.mymove.com/.

ABOUT SUDDATH RELOCATION SYSTEMS OF CHARLOTTE

With over a decade of local moving, storage and logistics experience in Charlotte, Suddath(R) has become the Tar Heel state's best choice for experienced, high-quality residential and commercial moving services, global mobility solutions and third-party logistics services. Suddath is a family moving company started three generations ago in 1919 in Jacksonville, FL. Since then, we have expanded our services globally, and now move tens-of-thousands of families and military members, thousands of businesses, and millions of pounds of products to destinations across the world each year with personalized care and attention. For more information, please visit https://suddath.com/charlotte/.

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Costs associated with dissemination of this news announcement were donated to Move For Hunger by NEOTROPE(R), a California-based marketing company.

Move For Hunger announced today that registration is open for the first-ever Charlotte Truck Pull, presented by MYMOVE. 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 Lenny Boy Brewing Co. (3000 South Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC, 28217) on Saturday, November 16 from Noon-4 p.m.

Related link: https://moveforhunger.org/

C Diff Foundation’s Junior Infection Fighters Program Takes Action against Harmful Germs One Community at a Time Worldwide

NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- C Diff Foundation announced today that the inaugural C Diff Foundation Junior Infection Fighter Program was introduced to families and their children/teens in Chester County, Pennsylvania on October 12, 2019.

Dayle Skelly, Director of the Junior Infection Fighter Program and C. diff. Survivor said, "There shouldn't be an age limit for raising awareness of infection prevention. Children are our future and take forth the torch of knowledge to be shared with everyone in each community."

The volunteer program has been developed for children/teens with the participation and support of their parents/legal guardian and supervision of C Diff Foundation adult volunteers. C Diff Foundation's Junior Infection Fighters Program mission: "To educate and advocate for infection prevention with the children and teens and to inspire their social, academic, personal, and health care knowledge and partner with parents who share the same mission to prepare them to be members of ever changing global health care in societies worldwide."

C Diff Foundation's Junior Infection Fighter guidelines have been brought to fruition, under the direction of a leading infection preventionist, Maureen Spencer, RN, M.Ed., CIC.

Ms. Spencer who has been an Infection Preventionist for over 30 years and board certified in infection control (CIC). As one of the early pioneers in infection control, she was awarded the APIC National Carole DeMille Award in 1990 and was selected as one of the APIC Heroes of Infection Prevention in 2007 for her work in establishing a MRSA and Staph aureus Elimination Program at New England Baptist Hospital, an Orthopedic Center of Excellence in Boston. The ground breaking work was published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery

All volunteer attendees enjoyed spending time learning more about practicing healthy habits combined with infection prevention information during the inaugural community event.

"We work together to carve new paths in the multi-faceted patient and family programs offered by C Diff Foundation. Together we build awareness and advocate for C. diff. infection prevention, treatments, clinical trials, antibiotic-resistance, and environmental safety worldwide. We are truly grateful to the dedicated members taking the C Diff Foundation's mission to greater levels changing lives, and saving lives across the globe," said Nancy C. Caralla, Founding President, C Diff Foundation.

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. ET (www.cdiffradio.com), sponsored by Rebiotix, a Ferring Pharmaceuticals company.

Learn more at: http://cdifffoundation.org

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

Media Contact:
Dayle Skelly
Director Junior Infection Fighters Program
C Diff Foundation
info@cdifffoundation.org
Office: (727) 205-3922

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1015s2p-CdiffJuniorInfectionFighters-300dpi.jpg

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Costs associated with dissemination of this news announcement were donated to the C Diff Foundation by NEOTROPE®, a California-based marketing company.

C Diff Foundation announced today that the inaugural C Diff Foundation Junior Infection Fighter Program was introduced to families and their children/teens in Chester County, Pennsylvania on October 12, 2019.

Related link: https://cdifffoundation.org/

Cultural Academy for Excellence (CAFE) Announces Upcoming CAFE 2019 Fundraising Gala

COLLEGE PARK, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Cultural Academy for Excellence (CAFE) fundraising affair will take place on Saturday, November 9, 2019. The CAFE 2019 Fundraising Gala is a black-tie affair that will feature headliner performances by world-acclaimed artists David Rudder, known as the Calypso King of the World, and Allison Hinds, aka the Queen of Caribbean Soca.

Akua Allrich, noted jazz and blues singer, as well as Image Band and CAFE's Positive Vibrations Youth Steel Orchestra, led by renowned steel pannist Josanne Francis will also perform.

The Fundraising Gala will occur at the following venue:
Samuel Riggs IV Alumni Center
7808 Alumni Drive
University of Maryland, College Park, Md.
6:30 p.m. - 11 p.m.

For the past 24 years, CAFE has helped over 1,500 children and families from underserved communities achieve scholastic success and personal fulfillment. The organization is dedicated to developing academic excellence, artistic brilliance, cultural awareness, and civic responsibility in all students who participate in its innovative After-School and Saturday Academy programs.

CAFE's offerings include urban gardening, robotics, health and wellness initiatives (which address childhood obesity and food insecurity issues rampant in at-risk families), youth entrepreneurship, music, dance, visual arts, and academic tutoring, as well as English for speakers of other languages (ESOL) classes for non-English speaking parents. These programs are supported by public and private sector contract awards, grants, sponsorships, and donations from generous benefactors.

"We can do even more with the help of new donors and sponsors," says Lorna Green, Founder and Executive Director of CAFE. The support and patronage at this year's Fundraising Gala will help CAFE continue to enhance the lives of our children.

Tickets for the Fundraising Gala can be purchased at: https://cafeyouth.org/gala/

The Cultural Academy for Excellence (CAFE) is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation located in Prince George's County, Maryland.

For more information please visit: https://cafeyouth.org/

VIDEO (YouTube):
https://youtu.be/GHltgG77wM4

Media Contact:
Lorna Green CEO
Cultural Academy for Excellence (CAFE)
11305 Chantilly Ln, Mitchellville, MD, 20721
Phone: (301) 785-0390
Email: info@cafeyouth.org

The Cultural Academy for Excellence (CAFE) fundraising affair will take place on Saturday, November 9, 2019. The CAFE 2019 Fundraising Gala is a black-tie affair that will feature headliner performances by world-acclaimed artists David Rudder, known as the Calypso King of the World, and Allison Hinds, aka the Queen of Caribbean Soca.

Related link: https://cafeyouth.org/

C Diff Foundation Raises Clostridioides difficile Awareness in St. Louis on Nov. 6-7 at 7th Annual International Conference and Health EXPO

ST. LOUIS, Mo. /ScoopCloud/ -- C Diff Foundation announced today that the 7th Annual International C. diff. Conference and Health EXPO is honored to welcome over 30 international topic-experts dedicated in disciplines of healthcare, pharma, biotech, academia, and Government agencies.

Presenters will deliver data and discuss critical information on a leading Healthcare-Associated Infection (HAI), Clostridioides difficile with global healthcare-associated issues on November 6 - 7, 2019 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Westport Hotel, 1973 Craigshire Road, St. Louis, MO 63146; Telephone: +1 (314) 434-0100.

To learn more about this extraordinary conference, guest speakers, and the diverse topics being presented visit: https://cdifffoundation.org/2019-guest-speakers/

All attendees will have the highest levels of peer networking and learning opportunity at the Conference and Health EXPO.

C Diff Foundation expresses their gratitude to Pfizer for being the conference Diamond Sponsor. Pfizer is appreciated for their continued support and partnering with the C Diff Foundation in promoting C. diff. Awareness worldwide. This activity has been supported by an independent patient advocacy Grant from Merck & Co., Inc., and the members of the C Diff Foundation are truly grateful.

Attendee Paul Feuerstadt MD, FACG, AGAF stated, "The annual C Diff Foundation conference and health expo is an essential conference for me to attend, given the comprehensive presentations about epidemiology, disease state, patient experience, infection control and innovations with treatment of C. difficile. The level of detail and data presented has a wonderful balance that is understandable for someone casually interested in the infection but also exceeds the expectations for those who are experts in the field wanting to share and exchange ideas with other thought leaders."

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.

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" Tuesday's at 1 p.m. EST (www.cdiffradio.com) sponsored by Rebiotix, a Ferring Pharmaceuticals company.

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

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

Media Contact:
Angelo Ortiz
C Diff Foundation
angelo.ortiz@cdifffoundation.org
Office: (727) 205-3922

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1015s2p-cdiff-nov-expo-300dpi.jpg

C Diff Foundation announced today that the 7th Annual International C. diff. Conference and Health EXPO is honored to welcome over 30 international topic-experts dedicated in disciplines of healthcare, pharma, biotech, academia, and Government agencies. November 6 - 7, 2019 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Westport Hotel.

Related link: https://cdifffoundation.org/

Media Advisory: Byte Back Brings National Digital Inclusion Week to DC with Congresswoman Norton and Mayor Bowser

WASHINGTON, D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Local residents and nationally known digital inclusion leaders are celebrating National Digital Inclusion Week October 7 to 11. Though Washington, D.C. is a capital of innovation and technology, the District still struggles with a stark digital divide. Byte Back is a nationally recognized tech nonprofit that has led digital inclusion in the D.C. area for more than 20 years.

This year, the organization is hosting its 3rd annual DC Community Tech Day, leading D.C.'s National Digital Inclusion Week activities. The event will feature U.S. Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, and tech career workshops for Byte Back students, alumni, and other community members.

The fourth annual National Digital Inclusion Week includes about 40 events around the country and is organized by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance, which has more than 385 members representing 44 states and the District. Byte Back's participation is part of a nationwide effort to close digital gaps, from California to the Carolinas.

"We have the ability to bridge the digital divide. We have the resources. We have the know-how. What we're missing is being brave enough and committed enough to do so," said Elizabeth Lindsey, Byte Back executive director, in her recently released TEDx talk, a widely shared resource on digital inclusion.

"Not everyone wants to code, but everyone needs basic and intermediate tech skills in order to thrive," Lindsey said, explaining the need for access to tech training in today's digital economy.

EVENT: DC COMMUNITY TECH DAY
When: Wednesday, October 9, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: Byte Back, 899 North Capitol Street NE Suite 850, Washington, DC 20002

What: This event brings together adult learners for an introduction to tech careers, job skills, and networking practice.

Who:
* U.S. Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, representing the District of Columbia
* D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser
* Elizabeth Lindsey, Byte Back executive director - national digital inclusion thought leader, recently recognized in The Root 100 most influential African Americans
* About 80 students and alumni, who are gaining tech skills for living-wage careers that use technology (Note: Students and program alumni will be available for press interviews)

Media Contact: Please contact Yvette Scorse, communications director, yscorse@byteback.org, (301) 456-4699, to arrange in-person interviews and/or filming on location.

ABOUT BYTE BACK, INC:

Byte Back provides a pathway of inclusive tech training that leads to living-wage careers. As a leader in digital inclusion since 1997, Byte Back has helped hundreds of graduates launch living-wage careers that use technology. In 2018, 50 graduates were hired, earning $27,599 more per year than before Byte Back training. Please see more at http://www.byteback.org/.

ABOUT DIGITAL INCLUSION, FROM THE NATIONAL DIGITAL INCLUSION ALLIANCE:

"Digital inclusion" refers to the activities necessary to ensure that all individuals and communities, including the most disadvantaged, have access to and use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). This includes 5 elements: 1) affordable, robust broadband internet service; 2) internet-enabled devices that meet the needs of the user; 3) access to digital literacy training; 4) quality technical support; and 5) applications and online content designed to enable and encourage self-sufficiency, participation and collaboration. Digital inclusion must evolve as technology advances. Digital inclusion requires intentional strategies and investments to reduce and eliminate historical, institutional and structural barriers to access and use technology. Please see more at https://www.digitalinclusion.org/.

Local residents and nationally known digital inclusion leaders are celebrating National Digital Inclusion Week October 7 to 11. Though Washington, D.C. is a capital of innovation and technology, the District still struggles with a stark digital divide. Byte Back is a nationally recognized tech nonprofit that has led digital inclusion in the D.C. area for more than 20 years.

Related link: https://byteback.org/

2019 Hero Dog of the Year Awarded to Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Alice

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is both humbled and honored to announce that on Friday, October 5, 2019 after more than a million public votes, our Service Dog, Alice; specifically trained to assist Recipient Antonio was named the 2019 Hero Dog of the Year in the American Humane Hero Dog Awards.

Alice has been watching over Antonio since 2016, after he tragically suffered a gunshot wound to the head at the age of nine, while sitting in his parents' car in 2015.

Since that day, Antonio has struggled through 5 brain surgeries, leaving him with a permanent traumatic brain injury, and an artificial flap that covers a large portion of his skull. He suffers regularly from seizures, spells, migraines and balance issues. Alice is at Antonio's side constantly, including attending school together; and she is focused on Antonio at all times. She not only alerts to oncoming seizures and spells, but assists him with balance issues, as a fall could potentially be fatal.

Seven truly incredible dogs were finalists for each category including: Sgt. Yeager: Military; Piglet: Search & Rescue; Leader Dog Lady: Guide/Hearing; Jeanie: Therapy; Gus: Shelter; Dax: Law Enforcement/Arson and of course, Alice in the Service Dog Category. We congratulate each category winner and recognize their incredible unique skillsets.

Alice completed nearly 2 years of unparalleled custom training to prepare for a life partnering with and assisting Antonio. Giving her acceptance speech, Antonio's Mom Tara said: "It's so incredible, we are truly honored to receive this award - I thank everybody who voted and showed support for my boy and Alice. Through a shooting, and something so dark, you forget to believe in humanity; but when something like this happens you start to learn that there is good in this world."

You can view the Hero Dog Awards in its entirety on the Hallmark Channel airing October 21, 2019. Check local listings for times in your area.

Guardian Angels, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit org, was founded in 2010, and custom-trains medical service dogs for veterans, first-responders and individuals like Antonio. Although the cost of training each service dog can take up to 2 full years, and cost nearly $25,000, we donate each dog to the recipient at no cost. Everything we do is funded by donation. To date, we have paired over 320 service dogs in 23 states across the nation.

If you would like to learn more about our organization, or support this life-saving work, visit our website at http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/.

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1008s2p-herodog-300dpi.jpg
*Caption: Carol Borden, Guardian Angels Founder & CEO; Antonio & his Service Dog, Alice, and Antonio's Mom, Tara at the Hero Dog Awards.

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is both humbled and honored to announce that on Friday, October 5, 2019 after more than a million public votes, our Service Dog, Alice; specifically trained to assist Recipient Antonio was named the 2019 Hero Dog of the Year in the American Humane Hero Dog Awards.

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

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. Partners with SCI Mercer to Train Service Dogs for Veterans

PITTSBURGH, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- It is with great pleasure that Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs announces its latest partnership, with the Pennsylvania State Correctional Institution at Mercer. As part of our new partnership, incarcerated veterans will train some of our future service dogs, beginning at approximately 5 months of age, all while earning college credit.

The program is already underway, with our Founder & Chief Operating Officer, Carol Borden recently completing a full seven days of classes for the 12 selected incarcerated veterans, teaching them our comprehensive training regimen. While required to pass the written portion of the class with an 80% or better, we are proud to say that of the 12 participants, they all scored above 95%.

Now that they are ready to begin training, 4 young future service dogs are on their way to Mercer from our Florida headquarters and are scheduled to arrive at Mercer later this week.

Once they arrive, the dogs will remain with the inmates 24 hours a day, for several months, and will be participating daily in classes and public access-style learning adventures due to Mercer's unique design featuring a cafeteria, classrooms, hospital, auditorium, gymnasium, commissary and library - the conditions are perfect for re-creating public access-type scenarios for the dogs to train in.

The teams training dogs inside Mercer will be visited weekly or more by our Pennsylvania Regional Trainer, to ensure program compliance and monitor each dogs' progress as they go through our positive-reinforcement curriculum.

An additional key benefit of this program is that the selected incarcerated veterans will be earning college credits. This program will not only help the disabled Pennsylvania veterans who ultimately receive the donated service dogs; but it is teaching a new, marketable skillset and industry to those currently incarcerated.

"I have always been so inspired by the service and sacrifice of our American heroes," said Sen. Brooks, who worked for two years to bring the program to SCI Mercer. "The brotherhood that unites our veterans, and the healing power of a dog, have always impressed me as well. This transformative new program unites these special elements into one heart-warming support network, and is destined to produce benefits that will allow veterans to help other veterans in a life-changing way."

Asked about the new program, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs Founder & CEO, Carol Borden said: "I couldn't be more excited about the magnificent start of this ground-breaking program. We expect great things - not only in the training of the dogs that will be donated to veterans in Pennsylvania; but that we will be giving the incarcerated veterans hope for a new future once they have served their time. By participating in this program, they are already serving their community".

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is a 501(C)(3) non-profit organization founded in Williston, Florida and has grown into a nation-wide Service Dog Organization. We rescue, raise, train and donate individually trained medical service dogs to veterans, first responders and others who suffer from disabilities including PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, seizure disorders, diabetic alert, mobility issues and more. Guardian Angels receives up to 40 inquiries each day for one of their medical Service Dogs.

If you'd like to learn more about our programs, get involved, make a contribution, or be part of supporting this life-saving project please call 800-398-6102 or visit our website at: https://www.medicalservicedogs.org.

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1004s2p-gamsg-mercer-300dpi.jpg

*Caption: (L to R): Mr. Diaz, Rocky Bleier, former Steelers Professional Football Player, Senator Michelle Brooks, Secretary John Wetzel, Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections, Carol Borden, Founder & CEO of Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Melinda Adams, Superintendent of SCI Mercer, Dustin Schneider, Recipient and Guardian Angels Spangle, Gen. Schindler, Deputy Adjutant General, Veterans Affairs.

It is with great pleasure that Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs announces its latest partnership, with the Pennsylvania State Correctional Institution (SCI) at Mercer. As part of our new partnership, incarcerated veterans will train some of our future service dogs, beginning at approximately 5 months of age, all while earning college credit.

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

Together, Six Farms Connect and Expand Farmland Conservation – A Reason to Celebrate!

ELK GROVE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- California Farmland Trust (CFT) announces the conservation of six new farms in Merced County. Four adjacent farms have created a large area of closely protected farmland; while nearby two other properties join already previously protected areas.

Connected Farmland

Nearly 220 additional acres of California farmland are now conserved forever, resulting in a total of 16,200 acres administered by CFT. Like-minded farmers worked with CFT to permanently protect their properties through agricultural conservation easements. The easements dedicate the land to farming and prohibit the conversion to non-agricultural uses, even if the land is sold or inherited.

"This is an important milestone for agriculture in the region," said Charlotte Mitchell, CFT Executive Director. "When we can group farms with prime and important soils that are adjacent to one another through permanent conservation, we help farmers have the peace of mind to know their land investment will be forever agriculture and support the robust agricultural economy in California."

All the properties remain separate parcels and are still owned individually; however, when viewed through the lens of their proximity to one another, their productivity as connected farmland increases and creates long-term opportunities for current and future farm operations and families.

The Gail Martin Trust Farm, Kruppa Farm, Kruppa Reed Farm, Magneson Property, Slater Trust Farm, and Tanner Farm encompass 220 acres of vibrant, productive land. They grow almonds, sweet potatoes, irrigated pasture for an organic dairy, and various row crops on Prime and Statewide Importance soils. As cities in the Central Valley continue to grow, each of these farms faced development pressure as city boundaries and spheres of influence grew even closer.

At the close of the Tanner Farm conservation project, Mike Tanner owner and operator shared with us, "I have always been an advocate for saving our best agricultural land for the production of food, fiber, and other products to sustain our lives. I have been involved with this ranch and its operation all my life. As we near the 100-year anniversary for our ranch, I am extremely proud to have been a part of it and for getting it placed into an agricultural conservation easement with the California Farmland Trust."

With the exception of the Gail Martin Trust Farm, all of these properties were protected with support from the California Department of Conservation and California High-Speed Rail Authority. The Gail Martin Trust Farm was permanently protected by an agricultural conservation easement funded by the California Climate Investments - Sustainable Agricultural Lands Conservation Program administered by the California Department of Conservation.

Expanding Conservation

In 2006, the Magneson family protected 472 acres with farmland conservation easements. This year CFT helped the Magneson's add additional acreage to their network of land to bring their total of preserved farmland to nearly 500 acres. The Magneson's currently operate an organic dairy with the conserved lands supporting grazing dairy cattle in accordance with organic standards and additional feed crops.

Celebrate

CFT hosted an easement celebration October 3rd at the Slater Trust Farm to recognize and thank those who chose to protect their farms. "My late father would be proud to know the first farm he purchased is now forever protected for agriculture," said Gail Martin as part of her remarks to the morning crowd.

"Linking these properties through permanent conservation is a win-win for everyone," continued Mitchell, "the landowners, the public, and the land."

For more information, program logos, or photos, please contact: Aundriea Montzingo amontzingo@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 16,200 acres of farmland on 73 family farms. Visit us: http://www.cafarmtrust.org/

The Sustainable Agricultural Lands Conservation Program is part of California Climate Investments, a statewide program that puts billions of Cap-and-Trade dollars to work reducing GHG emissions, strengthening the economy, and improving public health and the environment - particularly in disadvantaged communities. The Cap-and-Trade program also creates a financial incentive for industries to invest in clean technologies and develop innovative ways to reduce pollution.

California Climate Investments projects include affordable housing, renewable energy, public transportation, zero-emission vehicles, environmental restoration, more sustainable agriculture, recycling, and much more. At least 35 percent of these investments are located within and benefiting residents of disadvantaged communities, low-income communities, and low-income households across California. For more information, visit the California Climate Investments website at: http://www.caclimateinvestments.ca.gov./.

California Farmland Trust (CFT) announces the conservation of six new farms in Merced County. Four adjacent farms have created a large area of closely protected farmland; while nearby two other properties join already previously protected areas

Related link: http://cafarmtrust.org/

Jump$tart Coalition’s 2019 National Educator Conference Is Sold Out

WASHINGTON, D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Jump$tart Coalition's 2019 National Educator Conference - an all-scholarship event for personal finance teachers - is sold out. The conference, set for November 1 - 3, 2019 at the Mayflower Hotel in Washington, DC, is underwritten by the Cornell-Douglas Foundation, Experian, and the Wells Fargo Foundation and many other generous sponsors, which enable 350 teachers from across the country to attend the event on a scholarship that covers their hotel stay, meals and full participation in the event.

The Jump$tart National Educator Conference (#JSNEC19) supports the goals of Check Your School, Jump$tart's public engagement campaign to get more-and more effective-financial education into our nation's elementary, middle, and high schools. Jump$tart's Essential Elements of Effective Financial Education, found on CheckYourSchool.org, identify qualified educators as one of the essential elements and the National Educator Conference provides the professional development opportunity that many need. Teacher attendees are eligible to receive a certificate for 15 professional development hours.

The National Educator Conference also addresses the need for a variety of reliable financial education resources-another of the Essential Elements of Effective Financial Education. Conference breakout sessions and the dedicated financial education exhibit hall introduce teachers to curriculum materials and tools to help them bring personal finance to life in their kindergarten through 12th grade classrooms. Most of the session presenters and exhibitors are national Jump$tart Coalition partners.

"The Jump$tart National Educator Conference lets us offer substantive and focused professional development to personal finance teachers and those who incorporate financial content into any subject at any grade level," said Laura Levine, Jump$tart Coalition President and CEO. "We're also very proud that the conference demonstrates the best of what we are as a coalition-with supporters, presenters, and exhibitors working together to support financial education. It's truly a collaborative effort and we are grateful to everyone involved."

Exhibitor registration will remain open until October 11 or when capacity is reached. Visit the Jump$tart website or contact info@jumpstart.org for more information.

About Jump$tart Coalition:

The Jump$tart Coalition for Personal Financial Literacy is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization based in Washington, DC. Founded in 1995, Jump$tart's more than 100 national coalition partners and 51 state affiliates work collaboratively to advance financial literacy-especially among preschool through college-aged students. Jump$tart operates an online clearinghouse of financial education resources, is the publisher of the National Standards in K-12 Personal Finance Education, and may be best known as the original promoter of April as national Financial Literacy Month. @NatlJumpStart #aFinLitFuture

Check Your School is a public-engagement campaign launched by Jump$tart in 2019 on behalf of its partners and the financial literacy community. Check Your School supports the goals of Jump$tart's Project Groundswell-to get effective financial education into more U.S. classrooms-by harnessing the power of parents, families, educators, and others to start and join a national conversation about the need for financial education in our schools. @CheckYourSchool #CheckYourSchool

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

The Jump$tart Coalition's 2019 National Educator Conference - an all-scholarship event for personal finance teachers - is sold out. The conference, set for November 1 - 3, 2019 at the Mayflower Hotel in Washington, DC, is underwritten by the Cornell-Douglas Foundation, Experian, and the Wells Fargo Foundation and many other generous sponsors, which enable 350 teachers from across the country to attend the event on a scholarship that covers their hotel stay, meals and full participation in the event.

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

Walk with Us to Cure Lupus, New York – There’s Strength in Our Strides!

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Join New York's lupus community and the Lupus Research Alliance (LRA) Saturday, October 12 to Walk with Us to Cure Lupus at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum in Manhattan.

Walk with Us to Cure Lupus is the LRA's signature national program that unites communities across the country to achieve one goal - to raise the much-needed funds to improve care and find the cure.

In lupus, the immune system, which should protect against infection, instead creates antibodies that can attack any part of the body. More than 90% of the millions of people worldwide who live with lupus are women. African Americans, Latinx, Asians and Native Americans are two to three times at greater risk than Caucasians.

This day is set for a true celebration. Before and after the Walk, participants can take part in Tie Dying tee shirts, face painting, Team photos, and signing the annual Hope Begins Here banner displayed in the LRA national office in NYC. Free breakfast, snacks and a 25% discount at Coldstone Creamery add to the fun for all ages.

The Walk route is about 3.1 miles around the Intrepid on Pier 86 at West 46th Street. Walkers are encouraged to go at their own pace and cover their own distance; it is not necessary to complete the route. For more information about the NYC Walk, contact Elizabeth Vega-Eng at lupuswalknyc@lupusresearch.org or 646.884.6043.

"Thousands are walking across the United States to raise awareness and funds for lupus research," comments Kenneth M. Farber, President and CEO of the Lupus Research Alliance. "Through the efforts of communities like New York, this program has contributed millions to be invested in the most innovative and promising research that has led to every pivotal advance in lupus to date."

The lupus community thanks Walk sponsors for their ongoing support and commitment: Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield, Hospital for Special Surgery, NY Jets, Northwell Health, GSK, Us in Lupus, First Data, Cantor Fitzgerald, WCBS/WLNY, iHeart Radio, Aurinia.

Visit http://www.lupusresearch.org/ to learn more about the LRA and scientific breakthroughs that are transforming lupus treatment.

Get the latest news, share your experiences and support others on LRA's Community Forum, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

About the Lupus Research Alliance

The Lupus Research Alliance aims to transform treatment while advancing toward a cure by funding the most innovative lupus research in the world. Because the Lupus Research Alliance's Board of Directors fund all administrative and fundraising costs, 100% of all donations goes to support lupus research programs.

Join New York's lupus community and the Lupus Research Alliance (LRA) Saturday, October 12 to Walk with Us to Cure Lupus at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum in Manhattan.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Follow us @thewholechildca

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

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

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

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

California Farmland Trust Earns National Recognition

ELK GROVE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- One thing that unites us as a nation is land: Americans strongly support saving the open spaces they love and that feed them. Since 2004, California Farmland Trust (CFT) has been doing just that for the people of California.

Now CFT announced it has renewed its land trust accreditation - proving once again that, as part of a network of over 400 accredited land trusts across the nation, it is committed to professional excellence and to maintaining landowners' and the public's trust in its conservation work.

"Being able to say California Farmland Trust is accredited provides a 'security' to donors and landowners that the mission and endeavors of CFT have been scrutinized by an impartial third party and that we are able to perform our duties openly, fairly and efficiently," said Ron Freitas, President CFT. "We are a stronger organization than ever for having gone through the rigorous accreditation renewal process. Our strength means the prime farmland in California will continue to have an alternative to being paved over and can be protected forever, making California an even greater place for us and our children."

CFT provided extensive documentation and was subject to a comprehensive third-party evaluation prior to achieving this distinction. The Land Trust Accreditation Commission awarded renewed accreditation, signifying its confidence that our local farmers' lands will be protected forever. This distinction, along with our landowners, donors and agency partners, have helped us protect over 16,000 acres of privately-owned farmland.

"It is exciting to recognize CFT's continued commitment to national standards by renewing this national mark of distinction," said Tammara Van Ryn, executive director of the Commission. "Donors and partners can trust the more than 400 accredited land trusts across the country are united behind strong standards and have demonstrated sound finances, ethical conduct, responsible governance, and lasting stewardship."

About California Farmland Trust

California Farmland Trust is one of 1,363 land trusts across the United States according to the Land Trust Alliance's most recent National Land Trust Census. A complete list of accredited land trusts and more information about the process and benefits can be found at http://www.landtrustaccreditation.org/.

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 16,351 acres of farmland on 78 family farms. Visit us: http://www.cafarmtrust.org/

About the Land Trust Accreditation Commission

The Land Trust Accreditation Commission inspires excellence, promotes public trust and ensures permanence in the conservation of open lands by recognizing organizations that meet rigorous quality standards and strive for continuous improvement. For more, visit http://www.landtrustaccreditation.org/.

About the Land Trust Alliance

Founded in 1982, the Land Trust Alliance is a national land conservation organization that works to save the places people need and love by strengthening land conservation across America. The Alliance represents 1,000-member land trusts supported by more than 200,000 volunteers and 4.6 million Learn more at: http://www.landtrustalliance.org/.

One thing that unites us as a nation is land: Americans strongly support saving the open spaces they love and that feed them. Since 2004, California Farmland Trust (CFT) has been doing just that for the people of California.

Related link: http://cafarmtrust.org/

Susan G. Komen North Jersey’s MORE THAN PINK Wellness Expo, Presented by Aetna, Comes to Jersey City, NJ Sunday, October 6

JERSEY CITY, N.J. /ScoopCloud/ -- Susan G. Komen North Jersey, will be holding its MORE THAN PINK Wellness Expo on Sunday, October 6, 2019 at the Harborside Atrium in Jersey City from 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. This interactive health and wellness expo will offer attendees convenient access to education and critical health screening services, health/wellness exhibits, fitness/nutrition demonstrations, survivor support, a senior pavilion, medical information and genetic testing.

This year's event also features award-winning breast surgeon, breast cancer survivor, and Jersey City native, Julia M. DiGioia, M.D., F.A.C.S. As the event chairperson, Dr. DiGioia embodies the Wellness Expo mission to bring health and wellness solutions to our community.

The MORE THAN PINK Wellness Expo is free to attend.
Health screenings available include: clinical breast exams, mammograms, blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, dental, PSA, HIV, cognitive screening, and a senior pavilion. Mammograms are available to all insured or uninsured participants by calling Hoboken Family Planning at 201-963-0300 in advance to reserve your Expo appointment. There are limited spots available.

"Awareness and knowledge are a person's strongest ally when it comes to battling illness," said Perla Haltner, Acting Executive Director of the Susan G Komen North Jersey. "We urge everyone in the North Jersey area to join us for this Wellness Expo and take advantage of the terrific services and information available there."

Since its inception, the North Jersey affiliate of the Susan G. Komen organization has focused on community involvement to enhance, support, and provide area breast cancer patients access to critical services. Susan G. Komen North Jersey relies on the support and collaboration of its dedicated community partners to raise awareness of breast cancer detection, support services and educational services we provide in the 9-county Northern New Jersey area.

The Harborside Atrium event location is provided by host Mack-Cali and Expo visitors can easily access the Jersey City location via a NY Waterway ferry. The NY Waterway is the event's Community Impact Sponsor.

For this event Susan G. Komen North Jersey is teaming up with an array of sponsors and partners to offer a Wellness Expo where anyone can access all types of health professionals and screenings to begin their journey to better health.

Expo sponsors include, Atlantic Health Systems, RWJ Barnabas Health, Pfizer Oncology, Myriad Women's Health, Alliance Community Healthcare, Inc., Hoboken Family Planning, Montclair Radiology, Horizon, Hudson County Family Planning, NJCEED, Hackensack Meridian Health, Jersey City Department of Health & Human Services and City of Jersey City.

MORE THAN PINK WELLNESS EXPO Presented by Aetna
Sunday, October 6, 2019; 12 - 4 p.m.
HARBORSIDE ATRIUM
210 Hudson Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302

Susan G. Komen North Jersey holds a number of events each year. For more information about the Wellness Expo visit: https://komennorthjersey.org/expo/

About Susan G. Komen(R)

Susan G. Komen(R) 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 North Jersey(R)

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/.

Media Contact:
Jana McDonough
Komen North Jersey
1-516-673-6322
media@komennorthjersey.org

Susan G. Komen North Jersey, will be holding its MORE THAN PINK Wellness Expo on Sunday, October 6, 2019 at the Harborside Atrium in Jersey City from 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. This interactive health and wellness expo will offer attendees convenient access to education and critical health screening services, health/wellness exhibits, fitness/nutrition demonstrations, survivor support, a senior pavilion, medical information and genetic testing.

Related link: https://komennorthjersey.org/

Susan G. Komen North Jersey Honors Arthur E. Imperatore with Inaugural Community Impact Award

WEEHAWKEN, N.J. /ScoopCloud/ -- Susan G. Komen North Jersey announced today it presented its inaugural Community Impact Award to Arthur Imperatore Sr., Founder and resident of NY Waterway, the largest commuter ferry fleet in New York Harbor, providing commuter ferry and bus services between New Jersey and Manhattan.

The award has been specially created to recognize companies and individuals who have made a lasting contribution to the local cancer fighting efforts that Susan G. Komen North Jersey facilitates. The award was presented on September 19 at a ceremony at NY Waterway corporate headquarters in Weehawken, N.J.

Since its inception, the North Jersey affiliate of the Susan G. Komen organization has always relied on community involvement and engagement to enhance, support, and provide area breast cancer patients access to critical services. Through the Community Impact Award, the nonprofit hopes to honor and recognize the people and organizations that have helped Susan G. Komen North Jersey deliver on its mission of achieving significant community impact through local partnerships and collaboration.

"Arthur has been the example of community partners for Komen North Jersey. Under his leadership, NY Waterway has extended valuable resources to help get our message out to their customers and rally support for our local initiatives," said Perla Haltner, Acting Executive Director of Susan G. Komen North Jersey. "As an integral part of the Komen team, Arthur and NY Waterway have introduced us to other community leaders who've been champions when it comes to helping us raise awareness of breast cancer detection, support services and educational services we provide in the 9-county Northern New Jersey area."

"As a family business, NY Waterway has supported the communities and people of Northern New Jersey for over 70 years," said award recipient and NY Waterway's Founder, Arthur E. Imperatore. "I'm honored to receive this recognition and can't wait to promote more of the great work Susan G. Komen North Jersey is doing in this region."

Susan G. Komen North Jersey holds a number of events each year, including their upcoming Susan G. Komen North Jersey FREE Wellness Expo which will be held Sunday, October 6th at the Harborside Atrium in Jersey City. The Expo will offer a number of free screenings including: clinical breast exams, mammograms, blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol, dental, PSA, HIV and more. NY Waterway is an official Community Impact sponsor of this event.

For more information about the Wellness Expo visit: https://komennorthjersey.org/expo/

About NY Waterway

NY Waterway has the largest commuter ferry fleet in New York Harbor, but it is still a family business with all the personal attention to service and amenities that it had when it started with just one boat in 1986.

NY Waterway operates the largest privately-owned commuter ferry service in the U.S., carrying more than 32,000 passenger trips per day - 10 million trips per year - on 35 boats serving 23 routes between New Jersey and Manhattan, and between Rockland and Westchester counties, and between Orange and Dutchess counties. A fleet of 70 NY Waterway buses provide a free, seamless commute between ferry terminals in New York and New Jersey and inland locations.

About Susan G. Komen(R)

Susan G. Komen(R) 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 North Jersey(R)

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 http://komennorthjersey.org/.

Media Contact:
Jana McDonough
Komen North Jersey
1-516-673-6322
media@komennorthjersey.org

Susan G. Komen North Jersey announced today it presented its inaugural Community Impact Award to Arthur Imperatore Sr., Founder and resident of NY Waterway, the largest commuter ferry fleet in New York Harbor, providing commuter ferry and bus services between New Jersey and Manhattan.

Related link: https://komennorthjersey.org/

Pop-Up Problem-Solvers at My Change Agent Help Nonprofits Grow and Go

RALEIGH, N.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- An easy, affordable way to access a team of experts focused on solving problems and moving forward is now an option for nonprofit organizations across the country. Recognizing the common challenges facing nonprofits, such as limited budgets and bandwidths, North Carolina-based My Change Agent (MCA) has taken notice of a concept known as a flash organization. The result: the Capacity Building Consortium.

Often referred to as a "pop-up employer," a flash organization is created to solve a problem quickly and effectively. When a flash organization works well, research has shown that goal-oriented teams quickly impact change.

This concept is being used in the software technology and pharmaceutical sectors, but MCA co-founders Carolyn Naseer and Erin Spencer see tremendous need in the nonprofit sector.

"Nonprofits work tirelessly to meet the needs of communities they serve," Naseer said. "We are providing an affordable and effective way to help Executive Directors and their teams focus on solving problems in order to make positive, measurable impact that is critical to expanding services and meeting their mission."

The Capacity Building Consortium uses a one-of-a-kind subscription-based model to enroll nonprofits - regardless of size. Over time, members will receive an action plan to diversify donor streams, a documented succession plan, a process for managing volunteers, compliance with Human Resource regulations, and recruitment of qualified board members. In addition, employee health and wellness challenges and opportunities for staff development are included.

Enrollment is now open for the first cohort.

About My Change Agent:
My Change Agent (MCA) offers small businesses, nonprofits, universities, foundations, and startups access to on-demand teams created to solve problems while saving time and money. MCA's services include research administration, human resources, capacity building, and employee health and wellbeing.

Learn more: https://www.mychangeagent.co/

The Capacity Building Consortium is a one-of-a-kind subscription-based model available specifically to nonprofits. The consortium is a simple, affordable way to quickly assemble a purpose-driven team. MCA's mission is to make a positive impact in our community, where we live, work and play.

Learn more: https://www.mychangeagent.co/capacity-building-consortium

MEDIA CONTACT:
Jessica Roulhac
919.729.6106
hello@mychangeagent.co

*LOGO link for media: Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-0924s2p-mychangeagent-300dpi.jpg

SOCIAL:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/mychangeagent/

An easy, affordable way to access a team of experts focused on solving problems and moving forward is now an option for nonprofit organizations across the country. Recognizing the common challenges facing nonprofits, such as limited budgets and bandwidths, North Carolina-based My Change Agent (MCA) has taken notice of a concept known as a flash organization. The result: the Capacity Building Consortium.

Related link: https://www.mychangeagent.co/

Pop-Up Problem-Solvers Help Nonprofits Grow and Go

RALEIGH, N.C. /ScoopCloud/ — An easy, affordable way to access a team of experts focused on solving problems and moving forward is now an option for nonprofit organizations across the country. Recognizing the common challenges facing nonprofits, such as limited budgets and bandwidths, North Carolina-based My Change Agent (MCA) has taken notice of a concept known as a flash organization. The result: the Capacity Building Consortium.

Often referred to as a “pop-up employer,” a flash organization is created to solve a problem quickly and effectively. When a flash organization works well, research has shown that goal-oriented teams quickly impact change.

This concept is being used in the software technology and pharmaceutical sectors, but MCA co-founders Carolyn Naseer and Erin Spencer see tremendous need in the nonprofit sector.

“Nonprofits work tirelessly to meet the needs of communities they serve,” Naseer said. “We are providing an affordable and effective way to help Executive Directors and their teams focus on solving problems in order to make positive, measurable impact that is critical to expanding services and meeting their mission.”

The Capacity Building Consortium uses a one-of-a-kind subscription-based model to enroll nonprofits – regardless of size. Over time, members will receive an action plan to diversify donor streams, a documented succession plan, a process for managing volunteers, compliance with Human Resource regulations, and recruitment of qualified board members. In addition, employee health and wellness challenges and opportunities for staff development are included.

Enrollment is now open for the first cohort.

About My Change Agent:
My Change Agent (MCA) offers small businesses, nonprofits, universities, foundations, and startups access to on-demand teams created to solve problems while saving time and money. MCA’s services include research administration, human resources, capacity building, and employee health and wellbeing.

Learn more: https://www.mychangeagent.co/

The Capacity Building Consortium is a one-of-a-kind subscription-based model available specifically to nonprofits. The consortium is a simple, affordable way to quickly assemble a purpose-driven team. MCA’s mission is to make a positive impact in our community, where we live, work and play.

Learn more: https://www.mychangeagent.co/capacity-building-consortium

MEDIA CONTACT:
Jessica Roulhac
919.729.6106
hello@mychangeagent.co

*LOGO link for media: Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-0924s2p-mychangeagent-300dpi.jpg

SOCIAL:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/mychangeagent/

An easy, affordable way to access a team of experts focused on solving problems and moving forward is now an option for nonprofit organizations across the country. Recognizing the common challenges facing nonprofits, such as limited budgets and bandwidths, North Carolina-based My Change Agent (MCA) has taken notice of a concept known as a flash organization. The result: the Capacity Building Consortium.

Related link: https://www.mychangeagent.co/

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FOBA’s Building Champions Benefit

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- OBA's Building Champions Benefit will showcase its programs within the historically sophisticated, and classically new vibe of Row Twenty Four. Celebrating its kick-off benefit in 2019, the Row Twenty Four event venue exudes the warmth of contemporary design and modern accents, blended with a rich history, makes you feel part of Chicago at the height of the 1920's.

This highly anticipated event is expected to host nearly 300 distinguished guests.

Also, to be expected of FOBA's benefit, there will be a Silent Auction of exciting items and experience packages, one of a kind art painting's and more. 9 native Chicago-area Latin and American restaurants will be serving guests with tastings of their finest menu items. Entertainment will include a Latin percussion performance, live art paintings, and a violin performance by Daniel D Music.

Why: Fres Oquendo Boxing Academy (FOBA) celebrates 10 impactful years of service and its partnership with Aspira of Illinois Schools assisting at risk youth and under-served communities, providing them with the support they need to thrive and contribute to the greater Chicago community. This notable event with FOBA's Building Champions Benefit will prove to be an amazing night of sophistication, food, networking, and supporting FOBA's youth seeking to become champions in and outside the ring.

Who: Confirmed emcee is celebrity host, Leon Rogers of WGCI's "The Morning Takeover" and WFLD-Channel 32's "Later with Leon."

Presenting Sponsor of the Building Champions Benefit include: Jesus Davila.

Title Sponsor of the Building Champions Benefit include: Aspira of Illinois.

Light Weight Sponsor of the Building Champions Benefit include: Sewertech.

In-Kind Sponsors Include:
* Row Twenty Four
* Cuba 312
* El Fuego Mexican Cuisine
* Municipal Bar
* La Bruquena
* Granero
* Nestle Toll House Café
* Roeser's Bakery
* Borinquen
* Laughing Buddha Lounge
* Papa Cache
* So Prime Entertainment
* Jordan's Food of Distinction
* The_Polymatheory
* DJ Power

Where: Row Twenty Four Chicago is located at 2411 S. Michigan Avenue in Chicago, IL 60609

When: Friday, September 27, 2019, 5:30 p.m. - 10 p.m.

How: Tickets and Sponsorships are available at http://fobaintl.org/events/, or by contacting Stacey Oquendo at 630-808-1628. Attending or sponsoring this event is a priceless marketing opportunity to experience substantial media coverage and relevant demographic exposure!

For more information visit: http://fobaintl.org/
For events: http://fobaintl.org/building-champions-benefit/

FOBA is a not-for-profit boxing academy that provides at risk youth between the ages of 6 to 19, the opportunity to develop life, discipline and educational skills through the sport of boxing, community and humanitarian efforts. Our programs enable youth to flourish physically, mentally and socially, enabling them to thrive and contribute to the greater Chicago community.

FOBA's Building Champions Benefit will showcase its programs within the historically sophisticated, and classically new vibe of Row Twenty Four. Celebrating its kick-off benefit in 2019, the Row Twenty Four event venue exudes the warmth of contemporary design and modern accents, blended with a rich history, makes you feel part of Chicago at the height of the 1920's.

Related link: http://fobaintl.org/

Real Change: Expanding Congress to Include a Citizens Assembly

WASHINGTON D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- An Assembly of 600 citizen-delegates is being established by NewUnity.Org and it is expected to eventually become a third-chamber of Congress via constitutional amendment, creating a tri-cameral legislature. The first session of the Assembly is scheduled to start in early 2020. Any U.S. citizen over the age of 18 can be a delegate to the Assembly, provided they satisfy some eligibility requirements.

The Assembly advances democracy and mitigates many of the issues that have plagued the political process. There are no special interests, no political parties and no big money donors involved in selection of delegates and therefore none of the conflicts of interests or compromises that afflict many who are elected to Congress. As a non-partisan body, the Assembly can reduce the polarization that permeates Washington and, indeed, the country.

There is no doubt Americans want real change. 66% of Americans say they want major structural change in government, according to a poll of Americans by U.Chicago Harris/AP-NORC which was released in May 2019. Reforming Congress is clearly the place to start. It has the lowest job-approval rating of any branch of government. Congress's approval rating is only 17%, according to Gallup Poll in Aug. 2019. For reference, approval of the Supreme Court is 51% and of the President is 39%, according to Gallup Polls as of September 2018 and August 2019, respectively.

These polls highlight the extent of America's frustration and disgust with the polarized state of politics and gridlock in government. Research by Greater Good at Univ of Berkeley in March 2019 describes the destructive impact that increasing polarization is having on America. In summary, the adverse impact includes: winner-take-all politics, demonization of opposing views, proliferation of partisan propaganda, increased stress and general distrust of government. As an institution whose members are not selected by political parties, the Assembly is a solution that can both improve democracy and unify the country.

Delegates will be chosen from a database of over 230 million adults by an independent non-partisan organization using a transparent selection process that is similar to selection for jury duty. Given the Assembly involves patriotic service to country, organizers believe many will consider it a supreme honor to serve their country.

As a group, Delegates will mirror the general population to a 99% confidence level with approximately 5% margin of error. A 55% super-majority of Delegates will be required to adopt any measure meaning, statistically, decisions of the Assembly are consistent with the majority of Americans 99% of the time. It is obvious that Congress, as currently structured, could not match the Assembly's 99% level of performance.

Furthermore, the Assembly's demographic composition will closely mirror America's whereas Congress' composition is very different. For example, in Congress, 25% are female vs 51% of America. Through its composition and its voting rules, the Assembly will be unique in reflecting the will of the people.

Direct participation in government by citizens is not a new concept. Citizens already participate directly in one branch of government, the judiciary, through jury duty. People who are called for jury duty are selected from a database of all citizens - a sort of lottery selection process modified with some eligibility requirements. Most Americans have been called to jury duty at some point in their life. Nearly 15% of American adults, over 30 million people, are summoned to jury duty each year, according to a study by the National Center for State Courts. The Assembly simply extends the concept of direct citizen participation to the legislative branch of government.

NewUnity.Org believes citizens should participate in making laws - not just administering them as a juror. Service in the Assembly may someday be referred to as 'Assembly duty.' As with jury duty, delegates will be compensated for service and expenses will be reimbursed.

Direct citizen participation alone would add a lot of value; but the Assembly does even more. Delegates are able to do research and they have access to data and resources to fully explore an issue. Then they debate the issue with other delegates who have opposing views and are equally well-informed. Some will be persuaded to change their original position on an issue. The outcome of this deliberative process are decisions that are well-considered and fully-informed. The government can look to the Assembly for guidance on what the American people really think about issues and policies - rather than relying upon polls of uninformed people. This clearly would be a significant improvement over the present situation.

The Assembly's model is applying, on a national scale, a concept that is being tested in Dallas this week at an event called America in One Room or A1R. Five hundred citizens have been selected to statistically mirror America and they will debate five major national issues over three days. A1R will show if citizens can come together to seriously debate and vote on major issues. Direct citizen participation has already been applied successfully in over 25 countries globally. A1R is a Helena Project and involves Stanford University's Center for Deliberative Democracy and NORC at the University of Chicago. Lessons from A1R will be useful in establishing the Assembly and other direct democracy initiatives. The New York Times published an Op-Ed about A1R in August and is expected to publish outcomes of A1R after the event. Lessons from A1R will inform the operation of the Assembly.

"Everyone will have the chance to be a modern 'Mr. Smith' as in the classic movie 'Mr. Smith Goes to Washington' - an ordinary citizen is able to have a meaningful impact on government," said Ms. Anderson, a spokesperson for NewUnity.Org. "The Assembly reflects the actual will of the people in the entire country rather than representatives that are influenced by their political party, special interests and reflect the narrow preferences of those in their district who happen to vote on one day." Finally, she stated, "New Unity.Org does not undertake this initiative with a view to favor, or disfavor, any political party. The Assembly's objective is solely to benefit America by bolstering our democracy. It is a solution that stems from a long-term general disenchantment with politics and government."

Standing up this new Assembly is a massive undertaking. It takes a large number of volunteers and millions of dollars of donations from individuals and institutions. NewUnity.Org is a grassroots effort. It is not backed by any corporation or special interests. It is not backed by any corporation or special interests. NewUnity.Org plans to raise over $2 million by the end of this year and to start the first session of the Assembly in early 2020. Those who volunteer or donate will be doing a patriotic contribution to American democracy. NewUnity.Org has opened a donation portal on its website.

The first session of the Assembly is expected to meet at Constitution Hall in Washington D.C. NewUnity.Org is recruiting hundreds of volunteers to help achieve its mission. As an incentive, volunteers and donors will be granted a higher chance to be selected as a delegate to the historic first session of the Assembly.

About NewUnity:
NewUnity.org is a 527 non-profit organization. New Unity's mission is to promote direct democracy and advocate for non-partisan, independent voter participation in elections and government. See https://newunity.org for information about New Unity's mission and how to support it and follow us on Twitter @NewUnity_USA

An Assembly of 600 citizen-delegates is being established by NewUnity.Org and it is expected to eventually become a third-chamber of Congress via constitutional amendment, creating a tri-cameral legislature. The first session of the Assembly is scheduled to start in early 2020. Any U.S. citizen over the age of 18 can be a delegate to the Assembly, provided they satisfy some eligibility requirements.

Related link: https://newunity.org/

HER NEXT PLAY Announces Sports Summit for Teen Girls

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

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

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

Her Next Play JV Team Leadership

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About Her Next Play:

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

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

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

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

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

Media contact: pr@hernextplay.org

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

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

‘Blair Witch Project’ 20th Anniversary Screening Planned for Oct. 18 in Maryland

FREDERICK, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- Phenomenology, Inc., an innovative production model in the performing arts, announces its participation with Eduardo Sanchez, co-director of the "The Blair Witch Project," to bring his critically-acclaimed motion picture back to the big screen for one night in a special 20th anniversary screening, on October 18, in Frederick, Maryland, at the Weinberg Center for the Arts.

Hailed in 1999 by the New York Times, upon its theatrical premiere, as perhaps the "most inventive departure from standard horror fare" one can imagine, "The Blair Witch Project" pieces together the story of three film students who vanish after traveling into a Maryland forest, leaving only their footage behind. Shot over eight days with a budget of only $60,000, "The Blair Witch Project" went on to gross more than $240 million worldwide and is largely credited with bringing the "found footage" sub-genre to mainstream audiences.

The film was set in Burkittsville, Maryland, in western Frederick County, only a short distance from the historic Weinberg Center. "The Blair Witch Project" was distributed by Artisan Entertaiment.

"We've been humbled by the reception of the Blair Witch 20th anniversary screenings we've done this year," said Sanchez. "But this screening is special for me because it'll bring many of the local 'Blair Witch' cast and crew together with the film's most devoted fans, in the county where the 'Blair Witch' takes place. It's going to be a fun night."

In coordination with Phenomenology, the anniversary screening is also sponsored by the Maryland Department of Commerce and the Maryland Film Office and presented by 72 Film Fest, the Frederick Film Office and Sanchez's company, Haxan Films.

"We are honored and thrilled to support Ed and his vision to bring this special anniversary screening to Frederick," said Jeffery Keilholtz, CEO & Artistic Director of Phenomenology. "All of the partners for the event are coming together in a collaborative way to make this a memorable night for everyone."

The event will feature a screening of the original film, followed by a Question & Answer session, including Sanchez, and co-stars Mike Williams and Ed Swanson, among others. Film memorabilia will also be on display.

A lightly catered pre-show reception will commence at New Spire Stages, located at 15 W Patrick Street, with a chance to meet the filmmakers. Admission to the pre-show event is available at $50 per person and includes access to the screening.

Pre-show activities start at 6:30 p.m. and tickets are available at: http://www.mdtix.com/blairwitchprojectanniversary.html.

The anniversary screening kicks off 8 p.m. at the Weinberg Center, located at 20 W Patrick Street. For fans who only want access to the screening and post-show Q&A, tickets are available for $15 per person at the Weinberg Center, by calling the box office at 301-600-2828, or by visiting: https://weinbergcenter.org/shows/20th-anniversary-of-the-blair-witch-project/.

Net proceeds go to benefit Phenomenology, New Spire Stages and the Weinberg Center for the Arts.

About Phenomenology, Inc.:

Phenomenology, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is an innovative production model to raise the quality of life for performing artists and technicians by creating meaningful partnerships in the entertainment industry - coupled with the production of high-value projects - to generate a first-of-its-kind corridor of professional activity between Frederick, Maryland and major media markets.

More information: https://phenoart.org/

Media Contact:
Jeffery Keilholtz
CEO & Artistic Director
Phenomenology, Inc.
646.335.3917
jeff@phenoart.org

IMAGES FOR MEDIA:
[1] https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-0918s2p-blair-witch-poster-300dpi.jpg
Caption: "Blair Witch" movie poster; credit, Artisan Entertainment.

[2] https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-0918s2p-Eduardo-Sanchez-300dpi.jpg
Caption: Eduardo Sanchez, on location in Burkittsville , Maryland, where "The Blair Witch Project" was filmed.

Phenomenology, Inc., an innovative production model in the performing arts, announces its participation with Eduardo Sanchez, co-director of the "The Blair Witch Project," to bring his critically-acclaimed motion picture back to the big screen for one night in a special 20th anniversary screening, on October 18, in Frederick, Maryland, at the Weinberg Center for the Arts.

Related link: https://phenoart.org/

Asia America Symphony Association (AASA) – Notes Bring Hope Provides Ukuleles and Lessons for Visually Impaired

TORRANCE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Notes Bring Hope, a charitable arm of the Asia America Symphony (AASA), hosted its inaugural event on August 3rd at Torrance Airport - Zamperini Field Meeting Room. Volunteers of Notes Bring Hope shared their love of music with children from Partners for Pediatric Vision.

Eight visually impaired children received ukulele instruction from Mariane Matsuda, followed by a group performance by the children, lunch and a tour of the Western Museum of Flight. The children were given ukuleles to keep so that they can practice and share their music with friends and family. The first event went so well another successful session took place August 31st.

Partners for Pediatric Vision's Executive Director, Tori Schladen said, "This experience had a positive impact on the children's self-expression and self-esteem, developing their coordination, rhythm and concentration. It was a wonderful opportunity for fun and meaningful social interaction. We are grateful to AASA for sharing the gift of playing music with our children who have vision loss. It was a time to overcome challenges and shine. I believe it will have a lasting impact on their lives."

Participant Mia, age 8, adds: "I liked the music." Mia's grandmother replied: "Being able to share the experience and meet families of other children with visual impairments was the best part."

AASA Board Member and Notes Brings Hope's program director Shari Sunada said, "We couldn't be more pleased with the success of our first event. It's greatly rewarding to share the gift of music with the children from Partners for Pediatric Vision. We could not have done it without the support of our sponsors and volunteers, especially Marianne Matsuda, who, along with some of her ukulele students led the instruction."

ABOUT NOTES BRING HOPE:
Notes Bring Hope is a charitable arm of the Asia America Symphony Association (AASA), a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation. Notes Bring Hope shares the gift of music with economically or physically disadvantaged children through various programs including music therapy and music camps. AASA is dedicated to developing and mentoring young musicians, exposing and promoting music appreciation.

Contact Program Director, Shari Sunada (310) 722-3292, sharisunada@gmail.com.

ABOUT PARTNERS FOR PEDIATRIC VISION:
Partners for Pediatric Vision, a project of Community Partners, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Its mission is to turn possibilities into achievements for visually impaired children and their families by providing a critical link between healthcare, education and support. The organization provides free education, support and enrichment activities for children with visual impairment ages birth to 18 and their families throughout Southern California.

For more information about Partners for Pediatric Vision, contact Executive Director, Tori Schladen, M.A., (323) 612-8185, partnersforpediatricvision@gmail.com

Web: https://www.partnersforpediatricvision.org/

Notes Bring Hope, a charitable arm of the Asia America Symphony (AASA), hosted its inaugural event on August 3rd at Torrance Airport - Zamperini Field Meeting Room. Volunteers of Notes Bring Hope shared their love of music with children from Partners for Pediatric Vision.

Related link: https://aasymphony.org/

‘Treasure Trove’ From Italy’s ‘Most Underrated Museum’ Travels to The United States for the First Time

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- It is with great pleasure that the American Friends of Capodimonte (AFC) announce the first U.S. traveling exhibition of 40 Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces, most of which have never been viewed by an American audience, from the Capodimonte Museum in Naples, Italy; the royal palace built in 1738 by Charles of Bourbon, King of Naples and Sicily (later King Charles III of Spain).

"Flesh & Blood: Italian Masterpieces from the Capodimonte Museum" will open October 17, 2019 and run through January 26, 2020 at the Seattle Art Museum (SAM) in Washington state before traveling to Fort Worth's Kimbell Art Museum in Texas from March 1, 2020 to June 14, 2020.

"This spectacular exhibit is also a testament to the strong cooperation between Italy and the United States and some of their greatest cultural institutions which tirelessly endeavored to renew the bonds of our deep cultural ties by bringing a unique glimpse of Italy to Seattle and Fort Worth," says Armando Varricchio, Ambassador of Italy to the United States.

"We're thrilled for SAM to be the only West Coast venue for this powerful exhibition from the extraordinary Capodimonte Museum-our first collaboration with the institution," says SAM's Curator of European Painting and Sculpture, Chiyo Ishikawa. Eric M. Lee, director of the Kimbell Museum, says the exhibition's paintings "embody innovation, exuberance and grandeur-the result of revolutionary painting techniques and dramatic use of light and dark. The works continue to influence artists and inspire art lovers the world over."

"Flesh & Blood" is presented chronologically, tracing a 200-year period from the sixteenth through the eighteenth centuries. Highlights include Parmigianino's Antea (ca. 1535), El Greco's Boy Blowing on an Ember (1571-1572), Titian's Danae (1544-1545) and Artemisia Gentileschi's Judith and Holofernes (ca. 1612-1617), featured in "When a Woman Wields a Weapon" in the Wall Street Journal, August 16, 2019.

"The joy of Capodimonte," says the museum's director Sylvain Bellenger, "is not only the breadth of the collection, but the quality. We have the best of Titian, Parmigianino, Annibale Carracci, not to mention Italian giants unknown to the general public like Schedoni and Preti. This exhibition brings many of these knock-out masterpieces to the United States for the first time."

EXHIBITION CATALOGUE:
A 160-page illustrated softcover exhibition catalogue, produced in collaboration with the American Friends of Capodimonte Curatorial Fellows, will be available at the Seattle Art Museum and Kimbell Art Museum.

ABOUT CAPODIMONTE MUSEUM:
Referred to as an "under-visited treasure trove" by the New York Times in 2019 and "the most underrated museum in Italy" by Condé Nast Traveler in 2016, Capodimonte was built in 1738 by King Charles of Bourbon. It sits atop the highest hill above the ancient city of Naples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The core of the collection is the Farnese collection of paintings and sculpture, formed in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries and inherited by Charles of Bourbon. This fall the museum opens a yearlong exhibition on the oldest opera house in Europe, Naples' Teatro San Carlo. The exhibition, "Napoli Napoli: Of Lava, Porcelain and Music," recounts the Bourbon monarchy's patronage of the arts and sciences during Naples' golden age.

More information: http://www.museocapodimonte.beniculturali.it/

ABOUT AMERICAN FRIENDS OF CAPODIMONTE (AFC):
American Friends of Capodimonte (AFC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization created to bring awareness about one of the world's greatest museums to an English-speaking audience. The AFC's Fellowship is the only U.S. program to offer young American art historians the experience of working in an Italian museum. AFC members receive exclusive access to Capodimonte Museum and Royal Park, U.S. events related to the museum's collection and priority on custom trips to Naples and beyond.

For more information, visit:
http://www.americanfriendsofcapodimonte.info/ or americanfriendsofcapodimonte@gmail.com.

EXHIBITION ORGANIZATION AND SUPPORT:
The exhibition is organized by the Capodimonte Museum (Museo e Real Bosco di Capodimonte), Naples, the Seattle Art Museum, the Kimbell Art Museum, and MondoMostre.

Media Contact:
For information about AFC events and membership, press inquiries, or to set up an interview with Sylvain Bellenger, Director of the Capodimonte Museum, please contact americanfriendsofcapodimonte@gmail.com.

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-0911s2p-judholof-300dpi.jpg
*Image caption: Artemisia Gentileschi, "Judith and Holofernes" (ca.1612-17), oil on canvas, 159 x 126 cm; Museo e Real Bosco di Capodimonte, Naples.

It is with great pleasure that the American Friends of Capodimonte (AFC) announce the first U.S. traveling exhibition of 40 Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces, most of which have never been viewed by an American audience, from the Capodimonte Museum in Naples, Italy; the royal palace built in 1738 by Charles of Bourbon, King of Naples and Sicily (later King Charles III of Spain).

Registration Open For The First Ever Bell Works Truck Pull – Fundraiser to Support Move For Hunger

HOLMDEL, N.J. /ScoopCloud/ -- Move For Hunger announced today that registration is still open for the first-ever Bell Works Truck Pull, presented by WorkWave. 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 Bell Works (101 Crawfords Corner Road, Holmdel, NJ, 07733) on Thursday, September 12, 2019 from 3:45 - 7:45 p.m.

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

"We are excited to support Move For Hunger in a way that is not only fun for all, but also helps to get the community involved in raising awareness for such an important cause," said Marne Martin, CEO of WorkWave. "At WorkWave, we are passionate about doing the right thing and supporting the communities around us, and this is a great way to come together and make a difference."

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

As one of the founding members of Move For Hunger, Lowy's Moving Service has delivered nearly 490,000 lbs. of food - the equivalent of 408,000 meals - to Fulfill, Lunch Break, and other food pantries in Monmouth and Ocean Counties since 2009.

Nearly 866,000 people in New Jersey, including 1 in 8 children, do not have reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food. Meanwhile, 40% of all the food produced in the United States each year is wasted. The funds raised at the Bell Works Truck Pull will support Move For Hunger's hunger relief and food recovery programs, both in New Jersey and nationwide.

ABOUT MOVE FOR HUNGER

Move For Hunger is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that has created a sustainable way for the relocation industry to reduce food waste and fight hunger. In addition to collecting food from people who are moving to new homes, Move For Hunger also helps companies and individuals across the United States and Canada organize successful food drives. To date, they have collected more than 15 million pounds of food. For more information, or to find out how you can host your own food drive, visit https://www.moveforhunger.org/.

ABOUT WORKWAVE

WorkWave empowers service-oriented companies to reach their full potential through scalable, cloud-based software solutions that support every stage of a business lifecycle. We are a trusted partner for over 7,000 customers across a wide variety of industries, including pest control, lawn care, cleaning, HVAC, plumbing and electrical, and last mile delivery. WorkWave is unique in that it offers its customers solutions that support the full service lifecycle, providing businesses with everything from brand awareness and digital marketing to sales, service and customer experience. Through versatile software solutions, strategic business advice, and a broad network of partners, WorkWave goes beyond just software - we are a partner in enabling our customers to reach their full potential at each stage of their business journey. WorkWave is a division of global enterprise applications provider IFS. For more information, visit http://www.workwave.com/.

ABOUT LOWY'S MOVING SERVICE

Lowy's Moving Service has been in business since 1924 and is a highly respected and experienced commercial mover in the Metropolitan area. Lowy's has handled household, commercial and office relocations on local, interstate and international levels. Honesty, dependability and service have always been this company's most valued assets. For more information, visit https://lowys.com/.

Move For Hunger announced today that registration is still open for the first-ever Bell Works Truck Pull, presented by WorkWave. 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 Bell Works (101 Crawfords Corner Road, Holmdel, NJ, 07733) on Sept. 12, 2019 from 3:45 - 7:45 p.m.

Related link: https://moveforhunger.org/

First Ever Rose City Truck Pull to be Held on September 12

PORTLAND, Ore. /ScoopCloud/ -- Move For Hunger and the Portland Relocation Council announced today that the first-ever Rose City Truck Pull, presented by Chipman Relocation & Logistics, will take place on Thursday, September 12 from 1 - 5 p.m. 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 Golden Valley Brewing Company (1520 NW Bethany Blvd., Beaverton, OR, 97006).

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.

Chipman Relocation & Logistics, a professional moving company based in Portland, will provide one of their trucks for the event. As a member of Move For Hunger's national network of relocation professionals, Chipman Relocation & Logistics provides their customers with the opportunity to donate unopened, non-perishable food during the moving process and volunteers to deliver the donations to the local food bank, free of charge.

More than 510,000 people in Oregon, including 1 in 6 children, do not have reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food. Meanwhile, 40% of all the food produced in the United States each year is wasted. The funds raised at the Truck Pull will support Move For Hunger's hunger relief and food recovery programs in Oregon and nationwide.

ABOUT MOVE FOR HUNGER

Move For Hunger is a non-profit organization that has created a sustainable way for the relocation industry to reduce food waste and fight hunger. In addition to collecting food from people who are moving to new homes, Move For Hunger also helps companies and individuals across the United States and Canada organize successful food drives. To date, they have collected more than 15 million pounds of food. For more information, or to find out how you can host your own food drive, visit https://www.moveforhunger.org/.

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

Move For Hunger and the Portland Relocation Council announced today that the first-ever Rose City Truck Pull, presented by Chipman Relocation & Logistics, will take place on Thursday, September 12 from 1 -5 p.m.. The event, in which teams of 5-10 will compete to see who can pull a moving truck 100 feet in the fastest time.

Related link: https://moveforhunger.org/

8th Entrepreneur Summit to Feature Successful Business Owners and Experts

HOLLYWOOD, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Returning for its eighth year, Hispanic Unity of Florida's 2019 Entrepreneur Summit (www.HUFESummit.org) is a day-long learning and networking event showcasing the diverse array of businesses that contribute to South Florida's economy.

This year's event will be held on Friday, September 20 at Nova Southeastern University in the Carl DeSantis Building from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Breakfast starts at 7:30 a.m., followed by workshops throughout the day and an exhibitor area. The event features a much requested Master Class in the Art of Networking with Networking Guru, Heiko Dobrikow at 9:15 a.m.

The Keynote Address and American Dreamer Awards & Panel Discussion will be held at 10:45 a.m. with Keynote Speaker, Jim Ryan, Founder and CEO of OutPLEX (www.outplex.com) and Co-Founder, The Venture Mentoring Team.

Expected to draw between 300 and 400 attendees, the E-Summit provides emerging entrepreneurs and established business owners an opportunity to connect with other business owners and professionals interested in similar topics, learn from subject matter experts how to start and grow their businesses, and receive insights and best strategies for success.

Attendees include a mix of entrepreneurs, Fortune 500 companies, economic development specialists, representatives from government agencies, small business experts, procurement officers, educational institutions, media and corporate partners, and others interested in entrepreneurship. The 8th Entrepreneur Summit is presented by Chase. Major sponsors include: JM Family Enterprises, Inc., Southeast Toyota Distributors, Nova Southeastern University, WSVN Channel 7 News, Memorial Healthcare System, and Wells Fargo. The event is produced by Hispanic Unity of Florida, Inc. (HUF)( https://hispanicunity.org/ ).

This year's keynote speaker, Jim Ryan, Founder and CEO of OutPLEX and Co-Founder of The Venture Mentoring Team will share his insights on being a serial entrepreneur and how to identify a great business mentor. The American Dreamer Awards & Panel Conversation, sponsored by JM Family Enterprises/Southeast Toyota Distributors, will be moderated by renowned journalist Tom Hudson of WRLN. This year's program includes six workshops, with two in Spanish.

The American Dreamer Award recipients are individuals recognized for their steadfast success, business acumen and community service.

The 2019 honorees include:

* Dr. Julia Harper, TheraPeeds Family Center
* Leni Ibargüengoytia, ForSisters
* Juliana Martinez & Efrain Martinez, EM Professional Services
* Gloria Martinez & Edmerson Vasquez, Neo Broadband, Inc.
* Maxeme "Max" Tuchman, Caribu, Inc.

Learn more about the speakers, moderator and honoree at https://hufesummit.org/get-inspired-awardees.

"Launching a new business or running a small business comes with many challenges," said Josie Bacallao, Hispanic Unity of Florida's President and CEO. "We are excited that we can bring together entrepreneurs and business professionals to collaborate, network, inspire and learn from each other. We have another exciting Summit this year, and a great lineup of speakers. The Entrepreneur Summit is the perfect opportunity to not only gain valuable information, but to make connections and develop your small business network with like-minded professionals."

Pricing: Complimentary sponsored admission (FREE).

Parking: Complimentary. Located in the garage directly across from NSU's Business School and the Carl DeSantis Building.

For general information: http://www.hufesummit.org

For sponsorship information: Shani Wilson, Development Director, at 954-342-0430 or SWilson@hispanicunity.org

The 2019 Entrepreneur Summit is made possible by our sponsors (as of August 2019): Chase, JM Family Enterprises, Inc., Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC, Nova Southeastern University, Memorial Healthcare System, Wells Fargo, WSVN; as well as, Amerant, BankUnited, BBB of Southeast Florida and the Caribbean, BB&T, Comerica Bank, FPL, MBAF CPAs and Advisors, Setnor Byer Insurance & Risk, Synovus, Templeton & Company, TIAA Bank, and Woodforest National Bank.

About Hispanic Unity of Florida (HUF):

Hispanic Unity of Florida (HUF) is a non-profit founded 37 years ago by community leaders to ease the acculturation transition for newcomers from other nations. Today, HUF provides assistance through 12 programs and 30+ services in four languages to South Florida's diverse community. HUF, an UnidosUS Affiliate, is one of South Florida's largest agencies dedicated to the immigrant population, providing them with the tools they need to build a new life.

In 2018, the agency served more than 15,000 children and families. HUF offers assistance at four main office locations and provides extended services at 50+ outreach locations-including citizenship services at libraries, free tax preparation at mobile sites, and education services at public schools, among others.

Mission: Empowering immigrants and others to become self-sufficient, productive and civically engaged. For more information visit: http://www.hispanicunity.org/ or call 954-964-8884, ext. 216.

Media Contact:
Kathy Gallego
Marketing Director
Hispanic Unity of Florida
954-342-0404 (direct)
954-329-5262 (cell)
KGallego@HispanicUnity.org

Distributed by:
DreamCatcher Marketing & Productions
www.DreamCatcherMKT.com

Returning for its eighth year, Hispanic Unity of Florida's 2019 Entrepreneur Summit is a day-long learning and networking event showcasing the diverse array of businesses that contribute to South Florida's economy.

Related link: https://hispanicunity.org/

Louisiana Appleseed to Host Community Forum in Alexandria to Address Household Debt

NEW ORLEANS, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- In June, Louisiana Appleseed released its report, "A Vicious Cycle: How Predatory Lending and Court Fines & Fees Continue to Trap Communities of Color in Debt," which discusses its findings on financial stability in low-income and communities of color. As a part of a statewide tour to inform communities of these issues, Louisiana Appleseed is now taking these findings to Alexandria.

On September 17, 2019, Louisiana Appleseed will host a community forum to listen to residents' current debt problems, discuss findings outlined in "A Vicious Cycle," and highlight current materials available to increase financial stability. This meeting will take place from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Rapides Parish Public Library, King Branch, located at 1115 Broadway Ave. in Alexandria.

This meeting is FREE and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. You can register to attend the event on our Facebook page or by using the following link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/louisiana-appleseed-community-forum-to-address-household-debt-tickets-69670128229.

"A Vicious Cycle" provides important information on the factors contributing to the racial inequities that prevent wealth generation in communities of color. Long-term consequences of resorting to high-cost financial products often perpetuates a cycle of crippling debt that compounds financial insecurity and entrenches families and communities in poverty.

The report also highlights how low-income people of color also are trapped by harmful debt through the imposition of court fines and fees. By shedding light on these issues, Louisiana Appleseed empowers families with the knowledge of how to avoid some debt traps.

About Louisiana Appleseed:

Louisiana Appleseed is a statewide nonprofit based in New Orleans, Louisiana that focuses on policy-level solutions by recruiting attorneys to provide free services through a research-oriented approach to policy change. Louisiana Appleseed's mission is rooted in three pillars dedicated to increasing Access to: Justice, Opportunity, and Education. The creation and distribution of this report is a component of Louisiana Appleseed's Access to Opportunity Program that focuses on securing access to wealth building strategies in low-income and communities of color.

Support for this project was graciously provided by the Annie E. Casey Foundation's Southern Partnership to Reduce Debt, which is developing strategies to lessen the impact of criminal and civil judicial fines and fees, as well as medical fees and high-cost consumer products, on communities of color. The Annie E. Casey Foundation is a private philanthropy that creates a brighter future for the nation's children by developing solutions to strengthen families, build paths to economic opportunity and transform struggling communities into safer and healthier places to live, work and grow.

For more information, visit the Foundation's website at http://www.aecf.org/.

Follow us on social media!
* https://facebook.com/louisianaappleseed
* https://twitter.com/La_Appleseed
* https://www.instagram.com/laappleseed/

In June, Louisiana Appleseed released its report, "A Vicious Cycle: How Predatory Lending and Court Fines & Fees Continue to Trap Communities of Color in Debt," which discusses its findings on financial stability in low-income and communities of color. As a part of a statewide tour to inform communities of these issues, Louisiana Appleseed is now taking these findings to Alexandria.

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

Foundation Created to Continue Legacy of Moses White

TAMPA, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Moses White Foundation has been created to improve the quality of life for the underprivileged in Tampa through youth advancement, community revitalization and individual empowerment. Known as a successful business owner throughout Tampa, Moses White was also a famed civil rights leader and community advocate.

White was known as a calming voice during the height of the civil unrest in the late 1960s, not only by facilitating needed conversations, but also by feeding first responders and rioters alike.

As an ambassador and champion on behalf of the Black community to the government and mainstream audiences, Moses White was committed to improving the conditions for his people. He built a sense of community through events such as Easter egg hunts, Thanksgiving turkey giveaways and Christmas food baskets.

"When Central Avenue was going downhill, he (Moses White) was the one who motivated us to get the federal funds to clean up that area," says former Tampa Mayor and Moses White Foundation Board Member Dick Greco. "When we had the riots down there on Central Avenue (1967), he fed all the police and firemen for days."

Moses White had businesses on Central Avenue and Main Street - the Palm Dinette (Tampa's first sit-down restaurant for people of color), a rooming house, the Deluxe Cozy Corner and Club Rayals. Parks of Main Street were renamed Moses White Boulevard in 2001. He was also honored by the Bay Area National Conference of Christians and Jews Brotherhood Awards Dinner in the 1970s and by the naming of the Moses White Estates in 2011, an affordable housing development.

"As the Mayor of Central Avenue, Mr. White was the one you would look to for leadership and guidance," remembers Tampa Historian and Moses White Foundation Board Member Fred Hearns. "When you saw him, you thought of the possibilities in your life and that you could own businesses, and you could be self-sufficient. And in addition to being a successful businessperson, you could give back to the community in a number of different ways. I'm happy that his memory is going to be kept alive through this foundation."

With Tampa having a 20% poverty rate, the Moses White Foundation will focus on the most vulnerable communities with the idea that improving opportunities and enhancing lives through education, community members will create better lives for themselves and reinvest back into our communities.

In keeping with the legacy of Moses White, the Moses White Foundation will focus on:
- Traditional and Vocational Scholarships
- Community Revitalization Initiatives

As President of the Moses White Foundation, White's son Andre Moses White says, "My father meant so much to so many people. I'm so proud that we've created this Foundation to carry on his work in the community that he loved. We look forward to others joining in our mission of uplifting the community and creating opportunities for advancement."

The inaugural Board's first board meeting took place this month. The Board is comprised of business and community leaders who knew Moses White personally, as well as family members committed to helping the Tampa community.

The inaugural Board Members are:

* Andre Moses White, Son* and President of the Moses White Foundation
* Michael Adcock, Adcock-Adcock Insurance Agency, Inc.
* Bobby Bowden, Former City of Tampa Official
* Robyn Gordon, Grandchild*
* Richard Gonzmart, Columbia Restaurant Group
* Dick Greco, Former Mayor of Tampa
* Fred Hearns, Tampa Historian and PhD candidate
* Bernadine White King, Daughter*
* Gene Osteen, GO Enterprises
* Zachary King, Grandchild*
* Andre R. White, Grandchild*
* Racquel White, Grandchild*

* indicates familial relationship to Moses White

ABOUT THE MOSES WHITE FOUNDATION:

Guided by the belief that education and opportunity provide a path to self-sufficiency and success, The Moses White Foundation is a non-profit organization that works to improve the lives of Tampa's most underprivileged and at-risk community members. Focusing on traditional and vocational scholarships, as well as community revitalization, the Moses White Foundation aims to create strategic partnerships that will enable those it serves to advance in life with a sense of community, self-reliance and accomplishment that leads to poverty reduction and a sustainable thriving Tampa community.

Media Contact:
Racquel White
Racquel-White@att.net
770-778-0443

The Moses White Foundation has been created to improve the quality of life for the underprivileged in Tampa through youth advancement, community revitalization and individual empowerment. Known as a successful business owner throughout Tampa, Moses White was also a famed civil rights leader and community advocate.

GMAR and Michigan State Police Trooper School Come Together to Sponsor Medical Service Dog

LANSING, Mich. /ScoopCloud/ -- Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs announced that in February 2019, Sgt. McRae of the Michigan State Police Trooper Recruit School set a goal: to honor Michigan State Trooper Craig A. Scott; a military veteran who was killed in the line of duty after 7 years on the force in 1982.

Each recruit class creates a Hero WOD (workout of the day) for a fellow trooper and performs the Hero WOD at the gym. This 135th trooper recruit school added a fundraiser with an ambitious goal. To raise $25,000 to sponsor the training of a medical service dog for a deserving recipient.

The members of the 135th Trooper Recruit School were well on their way to that goal, raising $9,200 during a Hero WOD. That's when GMAR (The Greater Metropolitan Association of REALTORS(R)), reached out to help them complete their goal. GMAR has already been involved in raising funds for service dogs for several years, with their "5 Years, 5 Dogs, 5 Lives Saved" campaign, and they have previously completed sponsorship of Service Dogs Cobalt REALTOR(R) Blue, and Thor, and have future Service Dog Independence, currently in-training.

On Monday, August 12, 2019 the two came together, and GMAR presented a check to The Michigan State Police for $15,725 - covering the balance of the Trooper Recruit School's sponsorship.

The funds raised and contributed will be sent to Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, a 501(C)(3) non-profit organization, that has raised and trained more than 320 service dogs for deserving individuals in need nationwide, predominantly for veterans and first-responders.

To date, Guardian Angels has paired more than 20 dogs in the State of Michigan. But the waiting list continues to grow. The number of both veterans and first-responders facing issues such as PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, Seizure and Diabetic disorders and mobility issues is steadily increasing, and it is the hope of the Michigan State Police and GMAR that this individually-trained medical service dog, yet named will greatly improve life for its future recipient.

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

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs announced that in February 2019, Sgt. McRae of the Michigan State Police Trooper Recruit School set a goal: to honor Michigan State Trooper Craig A. Scott; a military veteran who was killed in the line of duty after 7 years on the force in 1982.

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

Exploring Black and Afro-Latinx female identity with RESPECT: gallery exhibition, workshops, and discussions

BRONX, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education is delighted to announce the opening of "RESPECT," an exhibition celebrating Black and Afro-Latinx womanhood. The art gallery exhibition and related public programs comprise the Fall season of "CelebrARTE," Casita Maria's arts and culture event series celebrating the South Bronx community and the art it has inspired.

"RESPECT" is a multimedia exhibition that features New York-based artists Timothy Okamura, Jessica Spence, and Nichole Washington. Like much of the art displayed at Casita Maria, the exhibition examines a belief about or within the community -- here, that beauty diminishes as skin tones become darker or hair becomes kinkier -- and turns it on its head, with powerful depictions of Black women respecting themselves and loving each other.

Each artist celebrates Black womanhood in their signature style. Okamura combines his 'realist' paintings of figures with details rendered in collage, spray paint and mixed media. The exhibition will include work he created from photographs of four Casita Maria after-school program participants as well as giclee prints from his Begin Transmission and Urban Portraits series.

Jessica Spence's acrylic paintings examine Black womanhood and societal beauty ideals, focusing on the beauty and versatility of Black hair. She will also participate in a panel discussion on the politics of hair and teach a workshop on her collage methods on Saturday, September 21.

Nichole Washington's bold and imaginative works explore feminine strength, identity, and spirituality through both photography and paint. Her strong use of design, layered with symbols and expressive brush strokes, creates a multidimensional space that allows room for nuance. For anyone interested in how she creates her engaging visuals, Ms. Washington will teach a workshop on symbol-making on Saturday, October 5.

Through CelebrARTE and other public programs, Casita Maria has become a premier location for the arts and culture of the South Bronx. Creative Arts Director Gail Heidel says, "Casita Maria is a safe, welcoming space that celebrates cultural pride and honors the communities we serve by creating a resilient ecosystem of self-expression, creativity and education. Seeing themselves and their families reflected in the art we present, neighborhood youth build self-esteem and pride in themselves and their communities. Our programming and the artists we showcase are a testament to the transformative power of the arts."

Fall 2019 season of the CelebrARTE (Celebrate Yourself) series
On view at the Casita Maria Gallery September 3 - November 15, 2019

Free and open to the public
Hours: Monday - Friday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

* Exhibition Opening and Artist Talk: Thursday, September 19, 5:30 - 8 PM
* Panel Discussion: The Politics of Hair: Self-Love, Self-Care and Understanding, Saturday, September 21, 1-3 p.m., Moderator: Lori Tharps, Panelists Sulma Arzu-Brown, Isidra Sabio Jessica Spence, Natasha Tarpley
* Workshop: ExpresARTE/Express Yourself Through Collage, September 21, 3:30-5 PM, Artist: Jessica Spence, Workshop: ExpresARTE/Express Yourself Through Symbol Making, Saturday, October 5, 10-11:30 a.m., Artist: Nichole Washington

Book Club: One Book One Bronx. Wednesday evenings 6:30-8 PM, beginning September 11

Featured books will include: "Girl in the Mirror: Three Generations of Black Women in Motion," by Natasha Tarpley, and "Hair Story: Untangling the Roots of Black Hair in America" by Ayana Byrd and Lori Tharps.

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

The exhibition and public programs are made possible by support from the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs and the Lily Auchincloss Foundation.

Casita Maria Center For Arts & Education is the first and oldest Latino 501(c)(3) charity in NYC, founded in 1934. The South Bronx-based community arts and educational organization presents diverse, contemporary visual and performing arts and education programming for all ages.

*IMAGE link for media: Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-0823s2p-Spence-Jessica-Sore-Arms-300dpi.jpg
*Image caption: "Sore Arms" by Jessica Spence.

The Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education is delighted to announce the opening of "RESPECT," an exhibition celebrating Black and Afro-Latinx womanhood. The art gallery exhibition and related public programs comprise the Fall season of "CelebrARTE," Casita Maria's arts and culture event series celebrating the South Bronx community and the art it has inspired.

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