Category Archives: Scoop

New Issue of Scattered Comics’ ‘GENIUS’ on Kickstarter Contains Extensive Story Written by the Late Rachel Pollack, a Beloved Trans Writer

FORT WORTH, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- The first issue of the comic book "GENIUS: The Akashic Avatar" is perhaps the most notable because it contains a story penned by Rachel Pollack, an award-winning trans author, tarot expert and comic book writer who died of Hodgkin's lymphoma April 7, 2023 at age 77, the TINSLEY BOYS announced today.

You may remember Rachel Pollack's magnificent writing from DC COMICS' DOOM PATROL - much of which was reflected in the TV series based on the comic.

The 56-page issue of GENIUS is currently for sale on Kickstarter. It can be purchased at: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ba3-altnarratives/genius-1

In addition to Pollack's work, the oversized issue contains stories written by veteran comic book writers BEN TINSLEY and CASEY COLUMBUS. The Pollack story was originally solicited by Tinsley back in 2010. It was originally published in a 2011 issue.

"That story was amazing," said Jake Tinsley, Ben Tinsley's adult son and comic book writing partner. "Rachel Pollack had such epic energy."

Jason Dube, Scattered Comics publisher, agreed Pollack brought something incredible to GENIUS.

"We were floored when we learned Rachel had passed away," Dube said. "She was such an amazing talent. And Ben is always talking about how supportive and friendly she was."

Pollack is survived by her wife, Judith Zoe Mateen.

According to legend, the Akashic Library, or Akashic records, contain information about all universal events, thoughts, words, emotions and intent ever to have occurred to anyone and everyone throughout all space and time.

Set on the Texas island Galveston, GENIUS: The Akashic Avatar centers around TANYA, a beautiful teenager of color selected by cosmic forces to become the librarian and guardian of the Akashic Library known in legend as the Akashic Avatar.

After initial publication of GENIUS A few years back, Pollack suggested to Ben Tinsley during an email exchange that he re-publish the story because she was constantly receiving questions about the legendary Akashic Library.

"Her fans kept asking her if the Akashic Library was real or not," Jake Tinsley said. "She told my dad she felt him reprinting story she'd written for us might help ... But we really thought she'd be around to see this."

It took some time to put the comic back together.

The published art for the comic, drawn by Casey Columbus had been lost in the shuffle.

All that remained were the stack of comics Ben Tinsley retained from that original run.

Ben Tinsley was able to recover the original pencils Columbus rendered.

Jason Dube and Tinsley worked closely together to reassemble the comic book, color it and add Pollack's scripted dialogue, which Ben Tinsley HAD retained.

"All of that took a minute," Jason Dube said. "I also worked on the original issue. But it had been published so long ago."

Jake Tinsley said his father secured the copyright for the character shortly before the comic book was originally published.

What happened to the original GENIUS comic was a lesson in organization for Ben Tinsley, his son said.

This new issue includes commentary from Pollack, provided by the beloved writer before dying.

The first issue of the comic book "GENIUS: The Akashic Avatar" is perhaps the most notable because it contains a story penned by Rachel Pollack, an award-winning trans author, tarot expert and comic book writer who died of Hodgkin's lymphoma April 7, 2023 at age 77, the TINSLEY BOYS announced today.

ACES Quality Management and ActiveComply Partner to Help Financial Services Firms Address Social Media Compliance and Quality Control Needs

DENVER, Colo. /ScoopCloud/ -- ACES Quality Management® (ACES), the leading provider of enterprise quality management and control software for the financial services industry, announced it has expanded its partnership program with ActiveComply, a leader in social media monitoring and website archival for the financial industry. The combined partnership will leverage ActiveComply's SocialShield® tool with the ACES Quality Management & Control® Software platform to improve regulatory reporting and streamline audit workflow for mortgage lending.

"Social media is constantly evolving, and lenders often struggle to effectively monitor and audit loan officer activity, which is why we are thrilled to announce our partnership with ActiveComply," said ACES CEO Trevor Gauthier. "Our technologies combined will empower our clients to more efficiently monitor social media activity as part of their overall compliance monitoring system in accordance with regulatory expectations and requirements."

ActiveComply's SocialShield® platform assists financial institutions in tracking company-affiliated social media profiles, monitoring those profiles for compliance and meeting regulatory archival requirements.

Key features include:

* Automated account discovery;

* Content alerts;

* Image scanning;

* Equal Housing logo detection;

* Missing Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System (NMLS) ID detection;

* Inappropriate language alerts;

* Executive reporting;

* Archiving; and

* On-going support for new hires and trigger terms.

"We have long admired ACES as the industry leader in quality control technology and are eager to partner with them," said Colby Berger, Chief Operating Officer at ActiveComply. "ActiveComply is leading the effort to keep financial institutions in compliance with the rapidly changing landscape of social media. Together, our companies' combined strengths help our clients improve compliance, create efficiency and ultimately increase revenue opportunities."

About ActiveComply:

ActiveComply was founded to help regulated institutions tackle the tremendous task of ever-growing compliance responsibilities. Working collaboratively with experts in the field - including compliance personnel, regulators, attorneys and other industry stakeholders - the company has developed a suite of solutions to help its clients confidently manage their social media, websites and remote work compliance. The company's software is built on more than 10 years of constantly evolving technology that has been used by more than 60 million professionals to date. This background, combined with experts in the compliance field, has resulted in powerful, easy-to-use and scalable tools that can save regulated institutions time, money and their reputations. To learn more, visit https://www.activecomply.com/.

About ACES Quality Management:

ACES Quality Management is the leading provider of enterprise quality management and control software for the financial services industry. The nation's most prominent lenders, servicers and financial institutions rely on ACES Quality Management & Control® Software to improve audit throughput and quality while controlling costs, including:

* 60% of the top 50 independent mortgage lenders;

* 8 of the top 10 loan servicers;

* 11 of the top 30 banks; and

* 3 of the top 5 credit unions in the United States.

Unlike other quality control platforms, only ACES delivers Flexible Audit Technology®, which gives independent mortgage lenders and financial institutions the ability to easily manage and customize ACES to meet their business needs without having to rely on IT or other outside resources. Using a customer-centric approach, ACES clients get responsive support and access to our experts to maximize their investment. For more information, visit www.acesquality.com or call 1-800-858-1598.

ACES Quality Management® (ACES), the leading provider of enterprise quality management and control software for the financial services industry, announced it has expanded its partnership program with ActiveComply, a leader in social media monitoring and website archival for the financial industry.

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

GPRS Launches New Safety Initiative to Address Aging Water, Wastewater Infrastructure

MAUMEE, Ohio /ScoopCloud/ -- Ground Penetrating Radar Systems, LLC (GPRS) has announced a new safety initiative designed to help municipalities and facilities regain control of their water, sewer, and stormwater infrastructure.

Water & Sewer Damage Awareness Week (WSDAW) will run October 23-27, 2023. GPRS water safety professionals will spend the week traveling the country to give free WSDAW safety presentations to government officials, facility managers, and other individuals and entities in charge of water and wastewater systems.

Additional safety information will also be shared throughout the week on both the GPRS and WSDAW LinkedIn pages.

GPRS' Senior Vice President of Marketing and SiteMap(®) Product Executive, Jason Schaff, explained that WSDAW is designed to help these groups take back control of their water and wastewater systems:

* Six billion gallons of water are lost daily in the U.S. due to defective subsurface water infrastructure. This is referred to as non-revenue water (NRW) and $2 billion of it trickles away into the soil or waterways each year

* 70,000 sanitary sewer overflows occur annually in the U.S.

* The average sewer pipe in the U.S. is 45 years old and at 81% capacity

* The United States' infrastructure scored a C- on the 2021 American Society of Civil Engineers Report Card

"Infrastructure in America is in bad shape," Schaff said. "Utility infrastructure and specifically sewer infrastructure is in bad shape. Water is becoming scarcer. WSDAW is positioned to help address some of these issues with simple and practical solutions."

He continued, "Money is literally leaking out of our pipes every day. There are some great, proactive approaches that WSDAW will bring to light - not only saving money, but increasing safety and decreasing project delays."

For more information about WSDAW or to sign up for a free WSDAW safety event, visit WSDAW.org.

About GPRS:

Founded by Matt Aston in 2001, GPRS Intelligently Visualizes The Built World(tm) by providing private utility locating, concrete scanning and imaging, 3D laser scanning, video pipe inspection, leak detection, and mapping & modeling services to utilities, contractors, engineering firms, and environmental consultants in every major market in the United States.

Headquartered in Maumee, Ohio, the company has a team of more than 400 elite Project Managers strategically stationed across the country, allowing them to respond to any jobsite, anywhere in the U.S., usually within 24 hours.

GPRS recently expanded its service offerings through the launch of SiteMap(r) (patent pending), a digital facility infrastructure management platform that offers clients the ability to easily and securely store and share their data, streamlining the lifecycle of projects and keeping them on time, on budget, and safe.

To learn more about GPRS and the services they offer, visit https://www.gprsinc.com.

To learn more about SiteMap(®), visit https://www.SiteMap.com.

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oS5uVIR--XA

Ground Penetrating Radar Systems, LLC (GPRS) has announced a new safety initiative designed to help municipalities and facilities regain control of their water, sewer, and stormwater infrastructure. Water & Sewer Damage Awareness Week (WSDAW) will run October 23-27, 2023.

Related link: https://www.gp-radar.com/

Senate Bill 729 to Increase Access to Fertility Care for Millions of Californians Postponed to 2024 by Assembly Appropriations Committee

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- State Senator Caroline Menjivar's (D-San Fernando Valley) Senate Bill 729, sponsored by California State Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, was converted to a two-year bill by the California State Assembly Appropriations Committee on Friday. The bill can be considered again as early as January 2024. SB 729 would require large group health plans to provide coverage for fertility care, including treatment for infertility and in vitro fertilization (IVF) - expanding access, improving care, and removing economic barriers for millions of eligible Californians.

SB 729 passed the state Senate in May by a large margin of 31-3 and advanced out of the Assembly Health Committee in August. Fourteen states have passed IVF insurance laws.

"A two year bill is not the outcome we hoped for, but it does allow us to continue our fight," said Senator Menjivar. "SB 729 progressed farther in the legislative process than any similar bills attempting to decrease inequities in fertility care coverage, which is why I am optimistic and will not give up. Californians who wish to build a family deserve equity and justice, not the current discriminatory law that withholds the safest and most reliable methods of fertility care from many of them. Soon, we will make California the true leader in reproductive justice."

According to a recent report, the World Health Organization estimates 1 in 6 people globally experience infertility. Lack of insurance coverage for fertility services is the most significant barrier to creating a family.

"Infertility affects people of all socioeconomic levels, racial identities, ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, gender identities, and religious beliefs," said Insurance Commissioner Lara. "As someone who has fought for affordable and more equitable access to healthcare services during my time in the California State Legislature and as Insurance Commissioner, I am proud to co-sponsor SB 729 to ensure fair and equal access to fertility treatments."

"I remain committed to this important issue that unfairly impacts so many Californians," said State Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland), who has introduced several pieces of legislation since 2019 to address this issue. "Paying out of pocket for infertility treatment imposes an insurmountable financial burden on the LGBTQ+ population and others whose insurance does not cover this medically-necessary care. We must address this gap in our healthcare system."

In addition to protecting against exclusionary insurance coverage for infertility, SB 729 ensures cancer patients are eligible for IVF insurance to complete their family building after preserving their eggs, sperm, or embryos under SB 600. In 2019, SB 600 passed to provide insurance coverage for fertility preservation for patients with medical indications.

"Nobody should be faced with the heartbreaking choice of deciding whether to have a child or to get lifesaving treatment such as chemotherapy and radiation, which can impact fertility," said State Senator Anthony Portantino (D-Burbank), who introduced SB 600. "SB 600 helped give cancer patients a path to preserve their fertility. SB 729 is the crucial next step in our fight for California families."

"Infertility is recognized as a disease by the World Health Organization, the American Medical Association, and The American Society for Reproductive Medicine," said Dr. Marcelle Cedars, the Immediate Past President of American Society for Reproductive Medicine and Director of UCSF Center for Reproductive Health. "Yet California continues to set infertility apart from other diseases in one basic, shameful way - by allowing insurance companies to diagnose but not to comprehensively treat."

"Our state is a leader in reproductive freedom, but we're lagging behind when it comes to ensuring that all people who want to have children are able to do so," said NARAL Pro-Choice California Director Shannon Olivieri Hovis. "California's existing law is grossly inadequate; coverage for fertility and infertility treatment is the only element of reproductive care excluded from insurance coverage. By excluding IVF alone, it leaves out the most effective treatment for infertility."

"No one should have to choose between their livelihood and their aspiration to become a parent, including members of the LGBTQ+ community," said Equality California Executive Director Tony Hoang. "SB 729 is a long overdue step to expand access to fertility coverage for all Californians and remove discriminatory language from our state's insurance laws. We are grateful to Senator Menjivar for being such a fierce champion for LGBTQ+ families and look forward to continuing this fight with her next year."

In addition to Insurance Commissioner Lara, the bill is cosponsored by RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association; NARAL Pro-Choice California; The Alliance for Fertility Preservation; Equality California; American Society for Reproductive Medicine; and Our Family Coalition. SB 729 has received the endorsement of more than 65 non-profits, associations, and organizations across the state, as well as thousands of advocate letters to lawmakers voicing support for the bill.

Learn more about Senator Caroline Menjivar (D-San Fernando Valley) at: https://sd20.senate.ca.gov/

CITATIONS:

https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/978920068315

State Senator Caroline Menjivar's (D-San Fernando Valley) Senate Bill 729, sponsored by California State Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, was converted to a two-year bill by the California State Assembly Appropriations Committee on Friday. The bill can be considered again as early as January 2024.

Related link: https://sd20.senate.ca.gov/

Millionaire Mastermind Academy Awards $30,000 In Grants To Black Small Business Owners In Arizona

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Millionaire Mastermind Academy, a national nonprofit organization addressing the barriers to economic mobility for systemically underserved minority entrepreneurs, proudly announced that it will award $30,000 in grants to local Black-owned small businesses through Elevate Together® powered by Round It Up America® to accelerate their growth and prosperity. The grants will support IMPACT AZ 2025, Arizona's largest supplier diversity readiness program, designed to close the racial wealth gap for business owners.

"We are thrilled to partner with Elevate Together to offer grants to business owners within the Impact AZ Program, which is working to close the racial wealth gap through supplier diversity readiness technical assistance," said Millionaire Mastermind Academy founder and CEO Dr. Velma Trayham.

Elevate Together® was designed to help accelerate the creation, growth, and prosperity of Black- and Hispanic-owned small businesses through education, access, and aid in collaboration with the National Urban League's Entrepreneurship Centers and the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. As the founding corporate partner of this nonprofit initiative, The ODP Corporation (parent company to Office Depot, ODP Business Solutions, Veyer, and Varis) proudly pledged an initial investment to help kickstart the program in several major markets to provide eligible small business owners with access to technical assistance programming, mentorship services, professional networks and more.

"We're excited to collaborate with the Millionaire Mastermind Academy to provide cash grants and certified small business mentors to help them elevate their business," said Sharu Goodwyn, Community Investment Manager for The ODP Corporation. "With support from our associates, customers, community partners, and other like-minded businesses, we look forward to fostering additional opportunities for Black- and Hispanic-owned small business owners to innovate, grow, and prosper."

To learn more about Elevate Together®, visit https://elevatetogether.org/.

About Millionaire Mastermind Academy:

The Millionaire Mastermind Academy is a leading 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a mission to educate and support the growth of minority business owners, thereby strengthening the economic impact in their community. We have supported over 8,000 women through technical assistance and economic empowerment programs.

For more information, please visit https://millionairemastermindacademy.org/

The Millionaire Mastermind Academy, a national nonprofit organization addressing the barriers to economic mobility for systemically underserved minority entrepreneurs, proudly announced that it will award $30,000 in grants to local Black-owned small businesses through Elevate Together® powered by Round It Up America® to accelerate their growth and prosperity.

Related link: https://millionairemastermindacademy.org/

ZKTeco USA Partners with Lockt, LLC and Z9 Security to Integrate Atlas Access Control Panels with SecureAccess Platform

ALPHARETTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- ZKTeco USA, a globally recognized leader and manufacturer of physical security solutions, is excited to announce a strategic partnership with Lockt, LLC, an organization renowned for delivering powerful security solutions. SecureAccess software from Lockt now supports ZKTECO USA's Atlas Access control panels using the z9/op=n interoperability platform from Z9 Security.

Through this strategic alliance, ZKTeco USA and Lockt, LLC have pooled their strengths and expertise to deliver an exceptional access control solution. Lockt, LLC has earned a stellar reputation for its state-of-the-art security systems that prioritize convenience and efficiency without compromising on safety.

The integration is possible because ZKTeco USA Atlas Series controllers are z9/op=n certified, and Lockt's SecureAccess software is built on top of Z9 Security's Z9/FL=X platform - both core elements of Z9 Security's interoperability ecosystem. This ecosystem features a unified architecture that seamlessly and quickly integrates a wide range of open and proprietary access control hardware and software.

"ZKTeco USA appreciates the high value delivered to customers utilizing Atlas Panels in conjunction with industry-leading security partners like Lockt, LLC and Z9 Security," said Manish Dalal, President, and founder of ZKTeco USA. "ZKTeco USA has been at the forefront of biometric and access control solutions for over a decade. With a commitment to research and development, ZKTeco USA has continuously introduced groundbreaking technologies which transform the way organizations manage their security needs. Our innovative solutions are trusted by thousands of businesses globally."

Ken Larson, president of Z9 Security, also expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, "We are thrilled to welcome Lockt to the Z9 Security interoperability ecosystem. This collaboration expands Lockt customers' hardware options to include the robust and high-performing ZKTeco USA Atlas Series controllers and gives Atlas Series customers the option of Lockt's scalable, powerful, and seamless Secure Access software platform. This is really a case study in the power of open architecture."

Lockt, LLC is renowned for its commitment to providing easy-to-deploy, easy-to-use, secure, and expandable solutions to partners and end-users. The integration with ZKTeco USA Atlas Series controllers expands Lockt's current integrations, which include multiple reader technologies, the Switch(TM) Tech by BEST, and seamless issuance of Bluetooth credentials.

"We are thrilled to partner with ZKTeco USA to bring a new level of innovation and user experience to the market," said Josh Plummer, Managing Partner of Lockt, LLC. "By combining our expertise and leveraging ZKTeco USA's advanced technology, we will create powerful security solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers."

The collaboration between ZKTeco USA and Lockt, LLC marks a continued expansion in the security industry, and will deliver comprehensive experiences to end users. With a shared commitment to improvement, this partnership will provide individuals and organizations with powerful solutions for security challenges.

About ZKTeco USA:

ZKTeco USA is a globally renowned enterprise focused on delivering biometric verification technology designed to help make the world a safer place for all its inhabitants. ZKTeco USA brings to market a wide range of solutions including Smart Identity Authentication Applications, Smart Entrance Control Applications (for both pedestrians and vehicles), and Smart Office Applications. Our touchless solutions are designed to enhance safety & security while also improving upon efficiency & the end-user experience through automation. We explore. We innovate. We deliver. For more information, visit https://www.zktecousa.com/.

About Lockt, LLC:

Lockt, LLC is a leading provider of innovative security solutions, offering a comprehensive range of products designed for residential and commercial applications. With a focus on convenience, efficiency, and safety, Lockt, LLC delivers state-of-the-art security systems to meet the evolving needs of customers. For more information, visit https://www.lockt.com/.

About Z9 Security:

Z9 Security is the creator of the access control industry's first and only true hardware and software interoperability ecosystem. The ecosystem features the Z9/FL=X cloud-based service and z9/op=n unified technology platforms, seamlessly integrating a wide range of both open and proprietary access control hardware and software, redefining interoperability, and drastically reducing time and cost to introduce new integrations. The Z9 Security ecosystem currently enables hundreds of hardware and software interoperability combinations and is growing fast. The Z9 Security team is made up of industry veterans with decades of expertise in access control, who have been behind the success of some of the biggest names in the industry. For more information, visit https://www.z9security.com/.

ZKTeco USA, a globally recognized leader and manufacturer of physical security solutions, is excited to announce a strategic partnership with Lockt, LLC, an organization renowned for delivering powerful security solutions. SecureAccess software from Lockt now supports ZKTECO USA's Atlas Access control panels using the z9/op=n interoperability platform from Z9 Security.

Related link: https://zktecousa.com/

Cole Engineering Services, Inc. Opens DoD Cyber Collaboration Facility

HANOVER, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- Cole Engineering Services, Inc. (CESI), a By Light Company, has a nearly 20-year history of developing and supporting complex training systems for the Department of Defense (DoD). CESI, an industry leader in the Modeling and Simulation (M&S) industry, holds large prime contracts to develop and field constructive, virtual, and cyber simulation systems that are used around the world. Responding to significant growth in their cyber training and operations business over the past five years, they are opening a new CESI Hanover Facility Supporting the National Capital Region (NCR) collocated with By Light Professional IT Services, LLC (By Light), in Hanover, Maryland.

CESI is the prime contractor for the Persistent Cyber Training Environment (PCTE) and Joint Cyber Training Enterprise (JCTE) programs, where they build and operate the largest cyber range in the world, specifically focused on ensuring readiness for the DoD's Cyber Mission Forces (CMF). In their execution of the $957 million Cyber Training, Readiness, Integration, Delivery and Enterprise Technology (Cyber TRIDENT) Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (ID/IQ) contract, CESI has teams in Orlando, FL; Fort Gordon, GA; and in the Fort Meade, MD, area. CESI is committed to providing United States Cyber Command (USCYBERCOM), the service cyber components and all other DoD customers with highly skilled cyber operations engineers, cyber planners, cyber training content developers, and mission rehearsal support teams at the customer's point of need. The new facility will allow CESI to better serve its core customer base at Fort Meade and the NCR.

"Opening CESI Hanover allows us to be closer to our core customer while providing a local home for our existing staff of highly skilled cyber operations engineers. The facility will enhance our ability to deliver both enterprise cyber training tools and a highly skilled staff of operational cyber professionals to support USCYBERCOM's critical mission," says CESI Vice President of Cyber Programs, Stephen Lopez.

Cyber TRIDENT provides the management, integration, maintenance, and evolution for the PCTE platform and provides a holistic, on-demand, standardized training platform that enables the end-to-end planning, preparation, execution, and assessment of training events for the CMF and the entire DoD cyber workforce.

"By Light is committed to bringing our customers the services they need where and when they need them. The facility, collocated with By Light's Global Networks and existing Cyber Divisions, provides world-class professional support for the important work of USCYBERCOM, the military services, and the Cyber National Mission Forces by allowing greater integration and collaboration within the By Light enterprise and among our cyberspace operations and cybersecurity training customers," says By Light Chief Executive Officer Bob Donahue.

The new facility was opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday, August 29, 2023, where By Light and CESI executives welcomed local staff and VIPs from DoD and Fort Meade.

About CESI:

Cole Engineering Services, Inc. (CESI), a By Light Company, is a premier integrator and provider of modeling and simulation and cyber training solutions. Since 2004, CESI has been at the forefront of developing, maintaining, and integrating simulation-based training, serious gaming, technical services, training, and other support in live, virtual, and constructive (LVC) and cyber domains. CESI designs, builds, and runs infrastructure, platforms, applications, and processes that enable converged training for the integrated multi-domain force. As a full spectrum LVC and cyber developer, integrator, and services provider, we deliver open-source solutions that empower our warriors.

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

About By Light:

By Light Professional IT Services LLC, headquartered in McLean, VA, is an ISO 9001, 20000-1, and 27001 registered and CMMI-Dev Level 3 rated systems integrator that provides secure, turnkey systems by incorporating exceptional engineering, project management, telecommunications, and cyber capabilities to safeguard mission success. Founded by industry professionals with extensive knowledge in the DoD, DISA, and other U.S. Government agencies, By Light successfully implements technical solutions that integrate commercial best practices to meet the needs of government.

For more information, visit https://bylight.com/.

Cole Engineering Services, Inc. (CESI), a By Light Company, has a nearly 20-year history of developing and supporting complex training systems for the Department of Defense (DoD). CESI, an industry leader in the Modeling and Simulation (M&S) industry, holds large prime contracts to develop and field constructive, virtual, and cyber simulation systems that are used around the world. Responding to significant growth in their cyber training and operations business over the past five years,

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

Hero Homes expands Cleveland footprint with 82 home purchase, targets Cleveland suburbs for future acquisitions

CLEVELAND, Ohio /ScoopCloud/ -- Affiliates of Hero Homes, have expanded its portfolio in the Cleveland, Ohio, metro area with the acquisition of the 27 unit Superior apartments in Cleveland Heights and 55 scattered site single family rental homes throughout the Cleveland Metro area. The 82 units will be added to its existing 36 homes already owned and operated in the Cleveland metro market. In these all-cash transactions, Hero Homes paid $6,219,419, equaling $75,000 per door, representing a 12.2%cap rate on current market rent.

The company believes the assets were purchased for less than 50% of their replacement value, representing a tangible value investment. Consequently, Hero Homes plans on buying an additional 1,000 homes in Ohio over the next 12 months.

The Ohio owner-operator has plans for renovation and repositioning of the assets.

"Cleveland is benefiting from new and expanding employers in the region and has emerged as one of the most affordable cities in the country," said Sayam Ibrahim, chief executive officer. "A lower cost of living, diversified economy, and proximity to destinations like Lake Erie and a robust downtown underpin future growth, and we're excited to expand our footprint in the metro with well-located, and well-maintained assets with plenty of upside potential."

The homes offer one-, two-, and three-bedroom layouts from 700 to over 2000 square feet. Interiors feature 9-foot ceilings, chef-style kitchens with stainless steel appliances, wood-style plank flooring, oversized closets, and plenty of sunlight. According to Hero Homes, upgraded countertops, kitchen backsplashes, and new cabinet faces will be added to each unit along with smart locks and thermostats, USB outlets, and upgraded plumbing and lighting fixtures.

Residents will have access to parks, dog walking areas, top Cleveland restaurants and plenty of shopping and entrainment.

Mr Ibrahim added, "We are excited about this new infill acquisitions in the Cleveland suburbs and look forward to working alongside the city and other property owners in the area to provide quality housing for local residents. We see significant value and potential in Cleveland and are in discussions to buy an additional 500 homes from various sellers in the coming months."

About Hero Homes:

Hero Homes was founded in 2011 by Mr Sayam Ibrahim, along with Sayam's brothers Amiel Ibrahim and Xavier Ibrahim and their partner Jonah Stevens. Since 2011, Hero Homes and its affiliates have purchased and renovated over 600 homes in Ohio with an emphasis on Columbus, Dayton, Lima and Urbana and now Cleveland representing over $65 million of value. Sayam Ibrahim's brother, Amiel, is a resident of Ohio and oversees all renovations of its assets while Xavier is based out of Florida and runs acquisitions for the company. Jonah Stevens heads their in house property management team. In 2022, The Ibrahim family partnered with Yaakov (Jack) Afik the largest developer on the island of Cyprus and founder of Caesar Resorts which has sold over 8,000 apartments in Cyprus and Anthony Pollak of Jupiter Florida and was later joined by U.S and international investors including: Michael Salkind, Joe Lubeck, Schloss Bros.L.P, Peter Friedman and Edwardo Link.

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

Affiliates of Hero Homes, have expanded its portfolio in the Cleveland, Ohio, metro area with the acquisition of the 27 unit Superior apartments in Cleveland Heights and 55 scattered site single family rental homes throughout the Cleveland Metro area. The 82 units will be added to its existing 36 homes already owned and operated in the Cleveland metro market.

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

LenderLogix integrates LiteSpeed mortgage point of sale system with Encompass by ICE Mortgage Technology

BUFFALO, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- LenderLogix, a leading provider of mortgage point-of-sale and automation software for banks, credit unions, independent mortgage banks and brokers, today announced the completion of the integration between LiteSpeed, a streamlined point-of-sale (POS) system designed for mortgage lenders and Encompass® by ICE Mortgage Technology, part of ICE (NYSE: ICE) and a global data, technology and market infrastructure company that designs, builds and operates digital networks to connect people to opportunity. Through the integration, leads flow directly from LiteSpeed to Encompass, providing loan officers with the combined power and accessibility of their web-based LOS while on the go.

"Though digital point-of-sale and origination technologies have become table stakes in today's mortgage market, LiteSpeed combined with Encompass and ICE's extensive suite of open APIs provides lenders a distinct competitive advantage," said Scott Falbo, Chief Technology Officer and Co-Founder at LenderLogix. "Through its powerful cloud-based ecosystem, Encompass works hand-in-hand with LiteSpeed, delivering easy access for loan officers to manage new and existing leads whether in the office or on the go. By leveraging the web-based workflow structure they're already familiar with, loan officers can quickly and efficiently deliver incredible experiences to their borrowers."

LiteSpeed was strategically and intentionally designed to provide borrowers with a simple yet powerful user experience. The white-labeled platform guides borrowers through singular, auto-advancing application questions using animated iconography and dynamic messaging. Once the application is complete, borrowers then receive confirmation emails with next steps, a secure document upload link and more from their selected loan originator.

Encompass provides loan officers with the ability to access their web-based LOS from anywhere, enabling them to maximize productivity across their entire workflow. This integration between LiteSpeed and Encompass leverages the latest Encompass Developer Connect API(TM) Platform, ensuring a seamless flow of data, while also delivering a frictionless and highly automated process for borrowers.

"With thousands of lenders adopting the Encompass loan origination platform, LenderLogix has invested extensively in its integrations with the Encompass solution suite," said Patrick O'Brien, CEO and Co-Founder of LenderLogix. "By combining LiteSpeed's easy to use digital point-of-sale technology with the pipeline and lead management tools within Encompass, this integration provides loan officers with even more functionality to serve their borrowers whenever and wherever they're needed."

About LenderLogix

LenderLogix leverages the four decades of firsthand mortgage origination and real estate experience of its executive team to design customized software to meet the needs of today's mortgage lenders. The company's suite of products addresses the speed at which today's real estate market moves by delivering technology solutions that create agile and informed borrowers, build strong referral partners and ultimately save lenders time and money. For more information, visit https://www.lenderlogix.com/.

About ICE Mortgage Technology

ICE Mortgage Technology® is part of ICE (NYSE: ICE), a global data, technology and market infrastructure company that designs, builds and operates digital networks to connect people to opportunity. Backed by ICE's global resources, we offer a truly differentiated digital platform that provides straight-through processing for a more comprehensive end-to-end workflow than any other provider in the market. We reach almost every mortgage in the U.S. by combining the native automation of Encompass® with the e-collaboration and e-recording capabilities of Simplifile®, along with the national electronic registry for nearly 90% of the U.S. mortgage market in MERS®. Ultimately, our technology enables people across the industry to focus on personal connections when they need it most, and support borrowers for a better journey of homeownership. Visit icemortgagetechnology.com to learn more. ICE Mortgage Technology combines technology, data and expertise to help automate the mortgage process, from consumer engagement through loan registration, and every step and task in between. ICE Mortgage Technology is the leading cloud-based loan origination platform provider for the mortgage industry, with solutions that enable lenders to originate more loans, lower origination costs, and reduce the time to close, all while ensuring high levels of compliance, quality and efficiency.

Visit https://www.icemortgagetechnology.com/ or call (877) 355-4362 to learn more.

About Intercontinental Exchange

Intercontinental Exchange, Inc. (NYSE: ICE) is a Fortune 500 company that designs, builds and operates digital networks to connect people to opportunity. We provide financial technology and data services across major asset classes that offer our customers access to mission-critical workflow tools that increase transparency and operational efficiencies. We operate exchanges, including the New York Stock Exchange, and clearing houses that help people invest, raise capital and manage risk across multiple asset classes. Our comprehensive fixed income data services and execution capabilities provide information, analytics and platforms that help our customers capitalize on opportunities and operate more efficiently. At ICE Mortgage Technology, we are transforming and digitizing the U.S. residential mortgage process, from consumer engagement through loan registration. Together, we transform, streamline and automate industries to connect our customers to opportunity.

Trademarks of ICE and/or its affiliates include Intercontinental Exchange, ICE, ICE block design, NYSE and New York Stock Exchange. Information regarding additional trademarks and intellectual property rights of Intercontinental Exchange, Inc. and/or its affiliates is located here. Key Information Documents for certain products covered by the EU Packaged Retail and Insurance-based Investment Products Regulation can be accessed on the relevant exchange website under the heading "Key Information Documents (KIDS)."

Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 -- Statements in this press release regarding ICE's business that are not historical facts are "forward-looking statements" that involve risks and uncertainties. For a discussion of additional risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements, see ICE's Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings, including, but not limited to, the risk factors in ICE's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, as filed with the SEC on February 2, 2023.

RELATED LINKS:

https://www.icemortgagetechnology.com/products/encompass-for-loan-officers

LenderLogix, a leading provider of mortgage point-of-sale and automation software for banks, credit unions, independent mortgage banks and brokers, today announced the completion of the integration between LiteSpeed, a streamlined point-of-sale (POS) system designed for mortgage lenders and Encompass® by ICE Mortgage Technology, part of ICE (NYSE: ICE) and a global data, technology and market infrastructure company that designs, builds and operates digital networks to connect people to opportunity.

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

Scientology Tools for Life Empower More than 20,000 to Help Their Country

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world," said South African President Nelson Mandela. And for the 1,300 new graduates of the Scientology Tools for Life Courses attending a recent graduation at Castle Kyalami in Midrand, South Africa, Madiba's message has taken on new meaning. They now have the skills to educate others and make a difference. And they are determined to do so.

"Each of you now has the ability to achieve many great deeds that will benefit society," said Sandile Hlayisi, Chairperson of the Scientology Volunteer Ministers, at a ceremony for these new Scientology Volunteer Ministers.

Graduates, wearing their signature bright yellow jackets, hail from many different backgrounds, faiths and beliefs. But all share the common purpose to help. Among them were educators at all echelons from primary school teachers to university professors, government officials, municipal leaders, community development specialists, early childhood practitioners, business leaders, pastors, social workers, nurses, police officers and agripreneurs.

South Africa faces many challenges, from unemployment and poverty to crime including gender-based violence. Many face inequality, suffer from unemployment, and try to cope with the effects of corruption.

But with the skills they have gained, these graduates look to a better future for themselves and their communities. They are empowered to resolve conflicts, tackle learning barriers, and raise the standard of business ethics. They can help people overcome drug abuse, improve their ability to communicate, gain more self-confidence, set and achieve goals, mend relationships, and plan for and achieve financial stability.

Among Tools for Life graduates empowering others through what they have learned are:

* Ms. Nomsa Ngwenya, a retired farmer, who held a series of empowerment workshops to inspire and equip farmers to turn struggling farms into profitable small holdings. "After I came across the Tools for Life program, I put it into application," she says. "And I am still experiencing success even long after turning the farm over to my daughter. I have retired and I now want to impart knowledge from my experience as my humanitarian mission to create better lives.

* Amanda Mbanga, a life coach who learned about Scientology Tools for Life while working with the Council of Churches on youth programs. She uses what she learned from these courses to help people one-on-one. These tools make it possible to find the exact right thing to help those she works with, she says.

* Irene Moemise, who was devastated when her job was phased out because of the pandemic. That's when she learned about the Scientology Tools for Life. Using what she learned on these courses, she opened her own bakery, which has not only brought her financial security, it has also enabled her to empower others in need of employment and supply bread to shelters for battered women and children. And when someone comes asking for day-old bread at a reduced cost, she hands them a loaf right out of the oven with a smile.

In a video on the Scientology website:

* An activist who is training people on the Tools for Life in Senegal, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, Cameroon and throughout Africa, says these courses are "really waking up the sleeping giant. You can never be the same. You cannot sit down idly again. You have to stand up," he says.

* A student recognizes that "as the leaders, we as the future generation will make sure that people are taken care of through following and doing all 19 courses.

* A pastor encourages everyone to join in the movement. "I'm doing something for my life, I'm doing something for the community" because "what counts most is to bring light, to bring life, to bring hope. Please come and join us," he says. "You are not going to regret it. This is a great opportunity-to be a volunteer for the Scientology Volunteer Ministry.

Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard developed the Tools for Life for the training of Scientology Volunteer Ministers, a religious social service sponsored by the Church of Scientology International.

Mr. Hubbard described the Volunteer Minister as "a person who helps his fellow man on a volunteer basis by restoring purpose, truth and spiritual values to the lives of others." Their creed: "A Volunteer Minister does not shut his eyes to the pain, evil and injustice of existence. Rather, he is trained to handle these things and help others achieve relief from them and new personal strength as well."

Their motto is no matter the circumstances, "Something can be done about it."

Castle Kyalami serves as a home for the community and a nexus for all who share the goal of bettering the lives of individuals and strengthening communities across the region, nation, and all of Africa. Mr. David Miscavige, ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, dedicated Castle Kyalami on New Year's Day 2019, reaffirming the vision of Mr. Hubbard that "from Southern Africa will spring the next great civilization on this planet."

For more information on the Scientology Volunteer Ministers of South Africa, visit the Scientology website.

LEARN MORE:

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

https://www.scientology.org/22-23/#africa-tools-for-life

https://www.scientology.tv/films/scientology-principles/tools-for-life.html

MULTIMEDIA:

https://www.scientology.org/22-23/#africa-tools-for-life

https://www.scientology.tv/films/scientology-principles/tools-for-life.html

https://www.youtube.com/@vmafrica

"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world," said South African President Nelson Mandela. And for the 1,300 new graduates of the Scientology Tools for Life Courses attending a recent graduation at Castle Kyalami in Midrand, South Africa, Madiba's message has taken on new meaning.

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

HitPaw Video Converter V3.1.0 Update Unveils Exciting New AI Features to Unleash Your Creativity

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- HitPaw, a pioneer in software technology, is thrilled to announce the launch of its latest software version, HitPaw Video Converter V3.1.0. Packed with innovative features, this release empowers users to take their video processing and editing capabilities to a whole new level. Catering to a wide range of needs, HitPaw Video Converter V3.1.0 introduces several remarkable enhancements that will revolutionize the way videos are manipulated.

LET'S CHECK OUT THIS NEW VERSION

* TIDAL Music Converter
With Tidal Music Converter, you can effortlessly transform your TIDAL music into common formats such as MP3, FLAC, WAV, and M4A while preserving essential ID3 metadata. This breakthrough feature provides music enthusiasts with the freedom to enjoy their favorite tracks on any device and with any media player, offering a truly seamless and unrestricted musical experience.

* AI Art Generator
Simply describe your desired image, and watch as the AI crafts stunning visuals that perfectly align with your artistic intent. With the AI Art Generator, users can now infuse their contents with artistic flair. From abstract to realistic, and everything in between, the AI covers an array of artistic styles to match your creative intentions.

* Speech To Text
HitPaw Video Converter V3.1.0 now introduces a game-changing feature that converts speech to text. This innovation not only simplifies the creation of accessible content, but also elevates user engagement to a whole new level. Now, you can effortlessly convert video and audio to text, as well as seamlessly synchronize subtitles with the video timeline.

* Video Stabilization
Building on the foundation of the current AI technology, HitPaw Video Converter unveils an innovative video stabilization capability. This feature ensures impeccable playback quality, even for videos plagued by shakiness.

* Screen Recorder
The new version boasts enhanced recording capabilities with the addition of screen recording, webcam recording, and microphone recording functions. Users can effortlessly capture and integrate various elements into their video projects.

Compatibility and Price
HitPaw Video Converter is now compatible with Windows 11/10/8/7 64-bit and macOS 10.13 and above. The pricing starts from $19.95 USD for a month plan.

For more price checking and information, you can visit https://www.hitpaw.com/video-converter.html

About HitPaw
HitPaw is an emerging software company specializing in video editing, screen recording, watermark removing, image editing, photo enhancing meme-making, etc. We help users turn their inspiration into reality so that we can generate more ideas to make the world full of more creativity.

To know more, you may visit https://www.hitpaw.com/about.html and https://www.hitpaw.com/

Our Social Media
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQwRggaotgiMcPbiCOsJeBA

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/HitPawofficial

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

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/HitPawofficialwebsite/

HitPaw, a pioneer in software technology, is thrilled to announce the launch of its latest software version, HitPaw Video Converter V3.1.0. Packed with innovative features, this release empowers users to take their video processing and editing capabilities to a whole new level.

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

Mortgage Lock Volume Dips Slightly in Response to Rising Rates in September MCT Indices Report

SAN DIEGO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Mortgage Capital Trading, Inc. (MCT(R)), a leading mortgage hedge advisory and secondary marketing software firm, reported today a slight 4.76% decline in mortgage lock volume over the prior month.

Download the complete report: https://mct-trading.com/press-release/mortgage-lock-volume-dips-rising-rates-mct-indices/

The slight dip in mortgage lock volume is likely attributed to an increase in mortgage rates through the last month.

"The summer buying season may have provided a nice backstop to prevent lock volume from dropping further this month," said Andrew Rhodes, Senior Director, Head of Trading at MCT. "If we continue into this restrictive territory through the winter buying season, we could see additional contraction through the rest of 2023."

The Fed's July decision to raise the Federal Funds Rate has contributed to a one-year high for mortgage rates. Friday's Nonfarm payroll report also came in slightly higher than expected, while other indicators, like the unemployment rate, unexpectedly ticked up from 3.5% to 3.8%. This mixed bag of indicators may give the Fed enough ammo for additional rate hikes in 2023.

As we move into the mortgage industry's natural winter slowdown, eyes will be on the Fed for communication that we've reached the terminal Federal Funds Rate.

"Any indication from the Fed that we've reached the terminal rate will trigger a reprieve in rates," said Mr. Rhodes. "In turn, market participants will begin to step back in and provide stability."

MCT's Lock Volume Indices present a snapshot of rate lock volume activity in the residential mortgage industry broken out by lock type (purchase, rate/term refinance, and cash out refinance) across a broad diversity of lenders (e.g., sizes, products/services offered, business models) from MCT's national footprint.

About MCT:

For over two decades, MCT has been a leading source of innovation for the mortgage secondary market. Melding deep subject matter expertise with a passion for emerging technologies and clients, MCT is the de facto leader in innovative mortgage capital markets technology. From architecting modern best execution loan sales to launching the most successful and advanced marketplace for mortgage-related assets, lenders, investors, and network partners all benefit from MCT's stewardship.

MCT's technology and know-how continues to revolutionize how mortgage assets are priced, locked, protected, valued, and exchanged - offering clients the tools to thrive under any market condition.

For more information, visit https://mct-trading.com/ or call (619) 543-5111.

SAN DIEGO, Calif., Sept. 5, 2023 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Mortgage Capital Trading, Inc. (MCT®), a leading mortgage hedge advisory and secondary marketing software firm, reported today a slight 4.76% decline in mortgage lock volume over the prior month. The slight dip in mortgage lock volume is likely attributed to an increase in mortgage rates through the last month.

Related link: https://mct-trading.com/

System4 Opens New Office in the Cornhusker State

CLEVELAND, Ohio /ScoopCloud/ -- System4 Facility Services Management, an industry leader in facility management solutions that specializes in customized commercial cleaning, disinfection and repair and maintenance services announced that a new office has opened in Nebraska.

"We couldn't be more pleased to welcome Nick and Jen into the System4 family. We're confident their entrepreneurial spirits and dedication to customer service will help them thrive as business owners," said Scott Kubec, Chief Operating Officer, System4 Facility Services Management.

System4 of Nebraska will be your one-stop shop for customized solutions that seamlessly deliver facility services within your budget and is powered by the winning combination of people and software. Whether you are looking for a commercial cleaning, disinfection, or building maintenance, we have you covered - inside and out! We offer small and medium-sized businesses the benefits and resources that are usually reserved for larger counterparts. Regardless of size, System4 provides their customers with world-class results and customer service.

On September 1, 2023, Nick Hebrew and Jen Tobey opened the System4 of Nebraska office location. The System4 of Nebraska office is located at 12020 Shamrock Plaza, Suite 200, Omaha, NE 68154, and can be reached at 402-500-6230.

"We are thrilled to bring the System4 brand to the Omaha, Council Bluffs and Lincoln Metro markets. Being able to bring an industry leader in this space to our area is exciting. We look forward to helping businesses of all sizes simplify, manage, and save money on their commercial contracts. The foundation of family at System4 fits our values and we wholeheartedly believe they match the Midwestern values found here in our Omaha, Council Bluffs and Lincoln metros," said Nick Hebrew and Jen Tobey, Franchise Owners, System4 of Nebraska.

Learn more at: https://system4.com/nebraska/.

About System4:

Founded in 2012, System4 Facility Services Management has become an industry leader in commercial cleaning, disinfection and repair and maintenance. With more than 60 locations nationally, System4 manages the interior and exterior of any size or type facility. As a business's one point of contact for all facility service needs, System4 simplifies processes for business owners, operators, and management by saving time, reducing complexity and overall cost.

Learn more: https://system4.com/.

System4 Facility Services Management, an industry leader in facility management solutions that specializes in customized commercial cleaning, disinfection and repair and maintenance services announced that a new office has opened in Nebraska. On September 1, 2023, Nick Hebrew and Jen Tobey opened the System4 of Nebraska office location.

Related link: https://system4.com/

‘Man in Red Bandana’ Reveals Mystery of 9/11 Hero in its World Broadcast Premiere on Documentary Showcase

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Scientology Network's DOCUMENTARY SHOWCASE - the weekly series providing a platform for independent filmmakers to air films on important social, cultural and environmental issues - presents the broadcast debut of "Man in Red Bandana" on Monday, September 11, 2023.

Man in Red Bandana retraces the final hours of a mysterious American hero who gave his life in the South Tower on 9/11 to save others. Firsthand accounts from those he rescued speak of a man wearing a red bandana, the only clue that would lead to the reveal of his true identity: Welles Remy Crowther.

Written and directed by Matthew J. Weiss and narrated by Gwyneth Paltrow, Man in Red Bandana documents the selfless courage and inspiring legacy of Welles Remy Crowther, a 24-year-old equities trader who worked on the 104th floor of the South Tower of the World Trade Center. Described by those he saved as a kind of guardian angel, Welles guided injured, disoriented and panic-stricken victims to safety via an escape route he had located. But instead of taking the opportunity to save himself, he climbed back up the stairway to rescue still more. Once his identity was discovered, his legend grew to include numerous honors, as well as recognition by President Obama at the dedication ceremony for the National 9/11 Memorial and Museum.

Man in Red Bandana won the Humanitarian Award at the Rhode Island International Film Festival and the Audience Award at the Niagara Falls International Film Festival.

ABOUT MATTHEW J. WEISS

Man In Red Bandana is Matthew J. Weiss's first full-length documentary and directorial debut. Additional credits by the attorney turned award-winning filmmaker include producing the feature film Vault and the documentary My Father Muhammad Ali.

In an interview with Scientology Media Productions for DOCUMENTARY SHOWCASE, Matthew said, "I made this film to encourage others to be better and to personify Welles's values. And now with this platform, literally thousands and thousands more people are going to be able to be inspired and impacted by Welles and his story. So I'm very grateful for this opportunity and super excited that it has been accepted on such a prestigious platform."

ABOUT DOCUMENTARY SHOWCASE

Fundamental to Scientology is a humanitarian mission that extends to some 200 nations with programs for human rights, human decency, literacy, morality, drug prevention and disaster relief. For this reason, the Scientology Network provides a platform for independent filmmakers who embrace a vision of building a better world.

DOCUMENTARY SHOWCASE debuts films weekly from award-winning independent filmmakers whose goal is to improve society by raising awareness of social, cultural and environmental issues.

For more information, visit Scientology.tv/docs.

Since launching March 12, 2018, Scientology Network has been viewed in over 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages. Satisfying the curiosity of people about Scientology, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists, showing the Church as a global organization, and presenting its social betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. The network also showcases documentaries by independent filmmakers who represent a cross-section of cultures and faiths, but share a common purpose of uplifting communities. Scientology Network's innovative content has been recognized with more than 125 industry awards, including Telly, Communitas and Hermes Creative Awards.

Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse and can be streamed at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/documentary-showcase/man-in-red-bandana/

https://www.scientology.tv/series/documentary-showcase/

MULTIMEDIA:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/documentary-showcase/man-in-red-bandana/videos/trailer.html

https://www.scientology.tv/series/documentary-showcase/man-in-red-bandana/videos/inside-look-teaser-with-matthew.html

https://www.scientology.tv/series/documentary-showcase/man-in-red-bandana/videos/an-inside-look.html

Scientology Network's DOCUMENTARY SHOWCASE - the weekly series providing a platform for independent filmmakers to air films on important social, cultural and environmental issues - presents the broadcast debut of "Man in Red Bandana" on Monday, September 11, 2023.

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

LenderLogix’s Derrick Enderby recognized by HousingWire Magazine in its 2023 HW Insiders award program

BUFFALO, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- LenderLogix, a leading provider of mortgage point-of-sale and automation software for banks, credit unions, independent mortgage banks and brokers, today announced Director of Customer Success Derrick Enderby has been chosen by HousingWire as a 2023 Insiders Award winner. Through its Insiders award program, HousingWire seeks to recognize individuals who serve their companies in outstanding ways through operations, product development and other ways that make their company successful.

"Derrick's pursuit of excellence has had a tremendous impact on both our customers and LenderLogix's success, so it is no surprise that HousingWire has recognized his efforts," said LenderLogix Co-Founder and CEO Patrick O'Brien. "Not only has Derrick created best practices and systems for our entire customer success department to ensure our clients receive the highest levels of service, but his dedication to helping our users get the most out of our technology is undeniable."

Under Enderby's guidance, the average loan officer using QuickQual has experienced a 27% increase in the number of pre-approvals issued on the platform. He also created an internal customer relationship management system to highlight opportunities to educate clients on ways to expand their use of their existing LenderLogix product. In addition, Enderby authored an internal Customer Success Playbook to outline specific touchpoints that LenderLogix Customer Success Specialists utilize to remain engaged and invested in clients' businesses.

"We publish the HousingWire Insiders award with the goal of shining a spotlight on the intrapreneurs and operational leaders who work ambitiously to support the success of their organizations," HousingWire Editor in Chief Sarah Wheeler said. "Since its launch eight years ago, we have been able to recognize the accomplishments of hundreds of Insiders whose dedication and expertise have resulted in enormous contributions to the housing landscape. Accomplishments which can often be behind-the-scenes but garner massive results."

The complete list of HousingWire Insiders Award winners can be found at www.housingwire.com

About LenderLogix

LenderLogix leverages the four decades of firsthand mortgage origination and real estate experience of its executive team to design customized software and APIs to meet the needs of today's mortgage lenders. The company's suite of products addresses the speed at which today's real estate market moves by delivering technology solutions that create agile and informed borrowers, build strong referral partners and ultimately save lenders time and money. For more information, visit https://www.lenderlogix.com/.

About HousingWire

HousingWire is the most influential source of news and information for the U.S. mortgage and housing markets. Built on a foundation of independent and original journalism, HousingWire reaches more than 70,000 newsletter subscribers daily and 1 million unique visitors each month and has more than 5,000 members and event attendees. Visit www.housingwire.com or www.solutions.housingwire.com to learn more.

LenderLogix, a leading provider of mortgage point-of-sale and automation software for banks, credit unions, independent mortgage banks and brokers, today announced Director of Customer Success Derrick Enderby has been chosen by HousingWire as a 2023 Insiders Award winner.

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

Dovenmuehle’s Iris Tredway named a 2023 Insider in HousingWire Magazine’s annual award program

LAKE ZURICH, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Dovenmuehle Mortgage, Inc. (Dovenmuehle), a leading mortgage subservicing company, announced today that Vice President and Manager of Special Loans and Commercial Servicing Iris Tredway has been selected by HousingWire magazine for its annual Insiders awards program.

Tredway was selected for her leadership and contributions to Dovenmuehle over the last two decades. As Vice President and Manager of Special Loans and Commercial Servicing, Tredway is responsible for more than 100 employees and countless innovations internally at Dovenmuehle. She has spearheaded implementing quality assurance programs and automating more than 200 steps in various processes, resulting in increased efficiency, improved risk mitigation and overall enhanced operations.

"Iris has been instrumental in DMI's growth. Her ability to motivate employees not only has driven operational excellence but also has been showcased by her resilience during challenges posed by macroeconomic conditions. No matter the obstacle, Iris has continuously grown her department and built an engaging culture, not to mention maintaining 20+ year relationships with multiple accounts," said Dovenmuehle Senior Vice President Glen Braun. "Her commitment to Dovenmuehle and customer service is indisputable, and she is extremely deserving of this recognition by HousingWire."

The HW Insiders represent a wide range of occupations within the housing landscape, from lending and real estate to fintech and much more. The HW Insiders are the professionals their companies turn to with their most important or challenging projects and their contributions and hard work lead to superior results.

"We publish the HousingWire Insiders award with the goal of shining a spotlight on the intrapreneurs and operational leaders who work ambitiously to support the success of their organizations," HousingWire Editor in Chief Sarah Wheeler said. "Since its launch eight years ago, we have been able to recognize the accomplishments of hundreds of Insiders whose dedication and expertise have resulted in enormous contributions to the housing landscape. Accomplishments which can often be behind-the-scenes but garner massive results."

The HousingWire Insiders award program seeks to recognize operational all-stars. To view the full list of HousingWire's Insiders recipients, visit: https://www.housingwire.com/insiders/

About Dovenmuehle

Founded in 1844, Dovenmuehle (Lake Zurich, Ill.) is a mortgage subservicer for commercial banks, credit unions, independent mortgage lenders, MSR investors and state housing finance agencies nationwide. The company subservices portfolio loans, as well as loans sold to Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, Ginnie Mae and the Federal Home Loan Bank with servicing retained. Using a combination of best-in-class and proprietary technology, Dovenmuehle helps lenders reduce servicing costs and deliver consistently high levels of service to homeowners while maintaining compliance with investor and regulatory requirements. Learn more at https://dovenmuehle.com.

About HousingWire

HousingWire is the most influential source of news and information for the U.S. mortgage and housing markets. Built on a foundation of independent and original journalism, HousingWire reaches more than 125,000 newsletter subscribers daily, one million unique visitors each month and has more than 6,000 members and event attendees. Visit www.housingwire.com or www.solutions.housingwire.com to learn more.

Dovenmuehle Mortgage, Inc. (Dovenmuehle), a leading mortgage subservicing company, announced today that Vice President and Manager of Special Loans and Commercial Servicing Iris Tredway has been selected by HousingWire magazine for its annual Insiders awards program.

Related link: https://dovenmuehle.com/

Scientology Network Overdose Awareness Day Programming Provides Help, Promotes Prevention

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- In the U.S. alone, every five minutes someone dies of overdose. International Overdose Awareness Day is observed both to remember the victims of drug overdoses and to inform the world of the urgent need to adopt effective drug education campaigns.

Scientology Network's programming features powerful, informative films and anti-drug activists who work in partnership with Foundation for a Drug-Free World to provide evidence-based education programs to stem the rise of drug overdose.

Focusing on the critical importance of early education to combat drug use, Foundation for a Drug-Free World partners with schools, community organizations and government institutions, empowering people in 180 countries with information on the true dangers of drugs.

"Drugs affect everybody," says Drug-Free World Florida President Julietta Santagostina in her episode of Voices for Humanity. "It doesn't matter what class, what religion, where you live, where you come from, it affects all of us. My purpose is to reverse that, to empower others with real facts, real information about drugs so they can make an educated decision."

The marathon event is broadcast around the world in 17 languages and includes:

* Voices for Humanity, the only ongoing television series dedicated to those working in the streets, schools and communities to combat drugs and other major social ills

* PSAs to raise awareness of the dangers of drug use

* The Truth About Drugs documentary, a powerful and comprehensive look into the true dangers of drugs, from marijuana, opioids and synthetic street drugs, to the addictive pharmaceuticals marketed with slick Madison Avenue advertising campaigns

The International Overdose Awareness Day marathon airs all day August 31. Visit Scientology.tv/schedule for the full schedule.

The Scientology Network debuted on March 12, 2018. Since launching, with an introduction by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige, the Scientology Network has been viewed in 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages. Satisfying the curiosity of people about the Scientology religion and Founder L. Ron Hubbard, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists, showing the Church as a global organization, and presenting its social betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. The network also showcases documentaries by independent filmmakers who represent a cross-section of cultures and faiths, but share a common purpose of uplifting communities.

Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse and can be streamed at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

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

https://www.drugfreeworld.org

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO

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

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/lance-dyer.html

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/julieta-santagostino.html

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/oreste-depaoli.html

In the U.S. alone, every five minutes someone dies of overdose. International Overdose Awareness Day is observed both to remember the victims of drug overdoses and to inform the world of the urgent need to adopt effective drug education campaigns.

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

‘Aim for Excellence!’ HitPaw Launches its 2023 Back to School Bonanza and Prepares Great Gifts for You

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Along with the beginning of September, it indicates that a new school year is around the corner. To encourage students to try harder at school, HitPaw has launched the Back To School Bonanza Promotion! Moreover, HitPaw has prepared amazing gifts for participants, including iPad Pro, Apple Pencil, Amazon E-Gift Cards, Free License Code, Best Discount and Coupon Codes!

100% TO WIN THE GIFT

By choosing & clicking the "Pawmoji," you can now unpack your gift!

All participants will have 1 chance for the lottery event, and can get 1 Extra chance to participate by sharing the event page to social media platforms such as Twitter or follow HitPaw on Facebook. The event will be valid until October 8, 2023.

Participants will have chances winning iPad Pro, Apple Pencil, Amazon E-Gift Cards, Free License Code, Best Discount and Coupon Codes! Let HitPaw enlighten your creation in the new semester!

SAVE UP TO 40% WITH HITPAW CREATIVE BUNDLE

Along with the lottery and single-item discount, HitPaw also offers the best deal for video creation bundles this time.

You can enjoy up to 40% discounts of pairwise combinations of different AI products. Check the event page yourself and discover them!

BEST DISCOUNT FOR AI-POWERED PRODUCTS

All the products powered by AI are now having up to 30% discount! You could now buy:

* HitPaw Video Converter at $27.96/Year for Win & Mac Version

* HitPaw Photo Enhancer at $55.99/Year for Win & Mac Version

* HitPaw Video Enhancer at $69.99/Year for Win & $76.99/Year for Mac

* HitPaw Watermark Remover at $7.99/Year for WIn & $16.99/Year for Mac

* HitPaw Video Editor at $27.96/Year for Win & $32.16/Year for Mac

* HitPaw Photo Object Remover at $23.09/Year for Win & $27.99/Year for Mac

* HitPaw Video Object Remover at $41.99/Year for Win & $48.99 for Mac

* HitPaw Voice Changer at $25.16/Year for Win & $32.16/Year for Mac

HOW TO PARTICIPATE

For more information or to participate in this event, please visit: https://www.hitpaw.com/back-to-school.html

ABOUT HITPAW

HitPaw is an emerging software company specialized in multi-media solutions such as video/photo editing, video/photo enhancing, screen recording, watermark removing, etc. We help users turn their inspiration into reality so that we can generate more ideas to make the world be full of more creativity.

To know more, you may visit:

https://www.hitpaw.com/

https://www.hitpaw.com/about.html

Our Social Media

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

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hitpaw

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/HitPawofficial

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

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/HitPawofficialwebsite/

Along with the beginning of September, it indicates that a new school year is around the corner. To encourage students to try harder at school, HitPaw has launched the Back To School Bonanza Promotion! Moreover, HitPaw has prepared amazing gifts for participants, including iPad Pro, Apple Pencil, Amazon E-Gift Cards, Free License Code, Best Discount and Coupon Codes!

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

New York City Mayor Eric Adams, UN Under-Secretary-General Melissa Fleming, Whole Foods CEO Jason Buechel, Bezos Earth Fund President & CEO Andrew Steer, Former Estonian President Kaljulaid, and National Intelligence Director Avril Haines to join 2023 Concordia Annual Summit

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- The 2023 Concordia Annual Summit is taking place on September 18-20, 2023 at the Sheraton New York Times Square during the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly. The leading public-private sector forum alongside the UN General Assembly, the Concordia Annual Summit upholds a remarkable legacy of uniting heads of state, policymakers, business executives, NGO leaders, entrepreneurs, and activists for over a decade.

This year's gathering will establish market-led solutions to the greatest challenges of today, including the pivotal role of the private sector in combating disinformation to urgent issues like mental health, environmental sustainability, and emerging technologies.

SPEAKERS INCLUDE:

Hon. Eric Adams, Mayor, City of New York; President Kersti Kaljulaid, Former President of Estonia; Jason Buechel, CEO, Whole Foods Market; Andrew Steer, President & CEO, Bezos Earth Fund; Hon. Melissa Fleming, Under-Secretary-General, United Nations; Hon. Avril Haines, Director of National Intelligence, Office of the Director of National Intelligence; Barbara Humpton, President & CEO, Siemens USA; Richard Buery, CEO, Robinhood Foundation, Hon. Reta Jo Lewis, President & Chair, Export-Import Bank of the United States; Rt Hon. Nick Clegg, President, Global Affairs, Meta; John Koudounis, CEO, Calamos Investments; Dr. Bernd Montag, Chief Executive Officer, Siemens Healthineers; Amb. Carlos Pascual, Senior VP, Geopolitics & International Affairs, S&P Global; Holly Copeland, Executive Director, CSR, Sustainability & Impact, Horizon Therapeutics; Dr. Andrew "Drew" Otoo, President, Global Vaccines, Merck; H.E. Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President, Republic of Guyana; Hon. Jose W. Fernandez, Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment, U.S. Department of State; Juliana Olayinka, London Bureau Chief, Channels Television; Alex Amouyel, President & CEO, Newman's Own Foundation; Samaila Zubairu, President & CEO, Africa Finance Corporation; H.E. Dritan Abazović, Prime Minister, Republic of Montenegro; Dave Regnery, Chair & CEO, Trane Technologies; Amy Pope, Director-General Elect, International Organization for Migration; and, Elmo, The Muppet, Sesame Street.

View all confirmed speakers and the agenda:

https://www.concordialive.com/annualsummit23/speakers

https://www.concordialive.com/annualsummit23/4179467

"Concordia's unwavering nonpartisan status and convening power give us a critical responsibility to address the biggest issues of our time," commented Concordia's Co-Founders, Matthew Swift and Nicholas Logothetis. "We feel this responsibility now more than ever before, at a time when the partisan divide we're witnessing in the United States-and indeed in so many other parts of the world-threatens to erode the spirit of cooperation and trust in our institutions. At Concordia, we believe the path forward requires rebuilding this trust and creating confidence in the power of community. Over three days in New York City, our 13th Annual Summit will hear from dozens of business, government, and NGO leaders to define the biggest challenges and prompt solutions. We all have a role to play, so we urge individuals and organizations to join us in this collective effort."

Concordia's Programming Sponsors are: Libra Group (Founding Sponsor); Calamos Investments, Meta (Principal Programming Sponsors); Merck, Siemens Healthineers (Lead Programming Sponsors); APCO, AT&T, BHP, ExxonMobil, Horizon Therapeutics, Salesforce, TC Energy, Trane Technologies, McDonald's (Patron Programming Sponsors); United Airlines (Travel Sponsor).

Concordia's Programming Partners are: Zayed Sustainability Prize Forum (Principal Programming Partner); AB InBev Foundation, CARE USA, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Aids Foundation, International Copper Alliance, Knight Foundation, Movement Health Foundation, Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board, Operation Smile, Stop TB Partnership, Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York, Word Vision (Lead Programming Partners); International Medical Corps, Darden School of Business at the University of Virginia, Mayor's Office of International Affairs, USA For International Organization For Migration, U.S. Department of State Office of Global Partnerships (Patron Programming Partners).

To attend the 2023 Concordia Annual Summit, register here ( https://www.concordialive.com/annualsummit23/begin ) for a $2000 All Access Pass, $800 General Access Pass, or $250 Wednesday-only Pass, or sign up to Concordia's organizational membership program.

For press enquiries, contact Rita Lockheart at rlockheart@concordia.net.

About Concordia:

Concordia, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, is the leading public-private sector convener, establishing and elevating market-led solutions to global challenges. Concordia was founded in 2011 by Matthew A. Swift and Nicholas M. Logothetis.

The 2023 Concordia Annual Summit is taking place on September 18-20, 2023 at the Sheraton New York Times Square during the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly. The leading public-private sector forum alongside the UN General Assembly, the Concordia Annual Summit upholds a remarkable legacy of uniting heads of state, policymakers, business executives, NGO leaders, entrepreneurs, and activists for over a decade.

Related link: https://www.concordia.net/

Opposition to AB-1147 Gains Momentum: Advocates Raise Concerns Over Consumer Voice

SAN DIEGO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Assembly Bill 1147 (AB-1147) is under scrutiny as concerns mount over its potential impact on the voice of consumers and the democratization of decision-making. Leading this charge is Dr. Henny Kupferstein, a vocal advocate and DDS consumer who has rallied opposition against the bill, and who is a candidate for Assembly #77 coastal San Diego 2024. AB-1147 is scheduled for a hearing, and its implications have ignited a wave of concern among consumers and advocates alike.

Henny Kupferstein and a coalition of concerned consumers have voiced their objections to AB-1147, citing a lack of safeguards for consumers' interests. The bill, as it stands, appears to prioritize substantial financial gains for traditional vendors within the $15-billion program, without explicitly addressing consumer protection and advocacy.

"It's disheartening to witness the exclusion of consumer perspectives from the analysis of AB-1147," laments Kupferstein. "This exclusion sends a troubling message about the state of our democracy, making consumers feel voiceless and sidelined in matters that affect them directly."

Kupferstein, in a bold move, has initiated contact with the Senate Appropriations Committee, urging them to reconsider AB-1147 in light of the widespread consumer opposition. This opposition is underscored by consumers' collective demand for the bill's rejection, claiming it would lead to unjustified expenses and an unbalanced distribution of resources.

Notably, consumers of Regional Centers have united in submitting a letter of opposition to the Senate Judiciary Committee. Their aim is not only to register their protest but also to ensure that their voices are heard and acknowledged. The demand for confirmation of receipt of their opposition letter highlights the gravity of their concerns.

Clarifications have been made by Kupferstein, who emphasizes that the sponsor, Disability Voices United (DVU), does not represent consumer interests in their opposition to AB-1147. Kupferstein further urges the Senate to discern individualized consumer voices from DVU template letters, affirming that these templates do not truly reflect the breadth of consumer sentiment against the bill.

In a surprising twist, Dr. Henny Kupferstein, a dedicated consumer-constituent, has announced her Campaign for Assembly #77 coastal San Diego 2024. This underlines the determination of consumers to secure their rights and influence legislative decisions that impact their lives.

For further inquiries, please contact:

Dr. Henny Kupferstein, votehenny@gmail.com or http://www.votehenny.com

As AB-1147 approaches its hearing date, the voices of concerned consumers like Henny Kupferstein ring clear: democracy must be upheld, consumer voices must be honored, and bills like AB-1147 must be critically assessed to ensure their alignment with the interests of those they affect.

See You in Sacramento

Join the movement, and look advocates in the eye on Friday, September 1st, as they gather in Sacramento to occupy the Senate for consumer rights and democratic representation.

MULTIMEDIA:

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

Assembly Bill 1147 (AB-1147) is under scrutiny as concerns mount over its potential impact on the voice of consumers and the democratization of decision-making. Leading this charge is Dr. Henny Kupferstein, a vocal advocate and DDS consumer who has rallied opposition against the bill, and who is a candidate for Assembly #77 coastal San Diego 2024. AB-1147 is scheduled for a hearing, and its implications have ignited a wave of concern among consumers and advocates alike.

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

Sacramento SPCA Performs 300,000th Spay and Neuter Surgery

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Sacramento SPCA announced today that they hit a spay and neuter surgery milestone - altering the 300,000th animal in Sacramento since 2007. That's an average of nearly 19,000 animals a year - making the Sacramento SPCA one of the top clinics in the nation.

"Spaying and neutering is the most effective way of reducing pet overpopulation and the number of pets entering our region's shelters," said Kenn Altine, Sacramento SPCA CEO. "That's why the Sacramento SPCA opened the Zoe K. McCrea Animal Health Center in 2021 - to immediately expand access to the public and our animal welfare partners in a time when all facets of animal welfare in our region and across the nation are struggling to keep up with demand."

The 300,000th animal to receive surgery at the Sacramento SPCA was "Mama Goose" - a feral cat who had given birth and raised kittens in a yard in Sacramento. She was trapped and brought to the Zoe K. McCrea Animal Health Center at the Sacramento SPCA through the weekday Community Cat Clinic. Thanks to the Feline Spay and Neuter Fund, she was spayed at no cost to her trapper, and returned home.

The Sacramento SPCA serves the Sacramento region and beyond as a premier provider of low-cost spay and neuter services, collaborating with local rescue groups, feral and community cat caregivers, those in need, and the public to alter 20,000 animals annually.

The Zoe K. McCrea Animal Health Center dedicates every Sunday to the health and welfare of community cats, providing free surgeries to more than 70 cats in Sacramento County each week. The shelter also offers 10 surgical slots for Sacramento County cats Monday through Saturday at no cost, thanks the Sacramento SPCA's Feline Spay and Neuter Fund. In collaboration with and funded by Zoe K. McCrea, Kathy Lelevier & Richard Rose, Dr. Nancy T. Field, and Mary & Kevin Clark, this initiative was launched in August of 2022 to provide more spay/neuter surgery appointments for community cats outside of the Sunday clinics.

Thanks to the fund, the Sacramento SPCA has altered more than 4,000 community cats so far this year, 500 more cats than this time last year. Since 2007, more than 50,000 cats have been altered, vaccinated, and received flea/ear mite treatments through the shelter's trap, neuter, and return (TNR) program.

As the only full-service 100% nonprofit animal shelter in the Sacramento region providing no-cost spay/neuter services to feral and community cats 7 days a week, the Sacramento SPCA relies on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to support their lifesaving work. The Sacramento SPCA is local, independent, and not affiliated with any other SPCA or humane society, including the ASPCA. All funds stay right here in the Sacramento region - helping animals - and the people who love them - in our own communities.

To join the lifesaving efforts and support of the Feline Spay and Neuter Fund, visit https://www.sspca.org/ or contact Sarah Haney, Chief Development Officer, at 916-504-2805 or shaney@sspca.org.

About the Sacramento SPCA:

Founded in 1892, the Sacramento SPCA has been providing homeless animals with individual comfort, shelter, and love for more than 131 years. The Sacramento SPCA provides compassionate medical care to tens of thousands of animals annually and offer a variety of programs and services designed to keep people and pets together for life. Visit https://www.sspca.org/ for more information and follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn.

The Sacramento SPCA announced today that they hit a spay and neuter surgery milestone - altering the 300,000th animal in Sacramento since 2007. That's an average of nearly 19,000 animals a year - making the Sacramento SPCA one of the top clinics in the nation.

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

The Massachusetts Youth Soccer Association, Inc. Extends Long-Standing Partnership with Sports Connect

LEOMINSTER, Mass. /ScoopCloud/ -- Stack Sports, the largest and fastest-growing global provider of sports technology, announced today that it has extended its partnership with The Massachusetts Youth Soccer Association, Inc. (Mass Youth Soccer), which will leverage the Sports Connect platform for its state and member club management. As strategic partners, both organizations are committed to supporting the members of Mass Youth Soccer to make soccer easy for volunteers, administrators, coaches, and parents.

"We are excited to continue to partner with Sports Connect. Our relationship has proven that Sports Connect is the best platform capable of managing our unique compliance needs and the most prepared to help our members," said Rob Holliday, Executive Director of Mass Youth Soccer. "Many Mass Youth Soccer programs already trust Sports Connect with their club management needs, and we are confident that our continued partnership will guarantee clubs the most innovative solution on the market along with unmatched support for the volunteers and administrators that make each season possible."

Member clubs partnering with Sports Connect have access to a full suite of features, including Mobile-First Registration, seamless data integration, exclusive website designs, secure online payment processing, and much more.

"Mass Youth Soccer has been a long-standing partner of Sports Connect and we are honored to extend the relationship," said Adam Abney, General Manager of Sports Connect. "For years, Mass Youth Soccer has supported US Soccer's efforts to make soccer the preeminent sport for all children, creating a lifelong passion and love for the game. Our partnership allows for continued innovation and resources that will serve our shared mission of giving more young players the opportunity to play sports."

With the expansion of its partnership with Mass Youth Soccer, Sports Connect now powers more than 20,000 sports clubs and leagues, and two million teams. Managing over $1 billion in payments annually, Sports Connect provides unprecedented scale and best-in-class technology with the goal of increasing sports participation and transforming the sports experience.

To learn more about Sports Connect features for Mass Youth Soccer, visit: https://sportsconnect.com/massachusetts-youth-soccer/.

About The Massachusetts Youth Soccer Association, Inc.:

Mass Youth Soccer, a nonprofit educational and service organization, is dedicated to the equitable and ongoing development of youth soccer players, coaches, referees, clubs, and leagues in an inclusive, unbiased, safe, affordable, and fun environment. To learn more about Mass Youth Soccer go to https://www.mayouthsoccer.org/.

About Stack Sports:

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

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

Stack Sports, the largest and fastest-growing global provider of sports technology, announced today that it has extended its partnership with The Massachusetts Youth Soccer Association, Inc. (Mass Youth Soccer), which will leverage the Sports Connect platform for its state and member club management.

Related link: https://stacksports.com/

Scientology Churches Share Solutions on Overdose Awareness Day to Turn the Tide

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- More than 109,000 Americans died of drug overdose in the 12-month period ending January 2023. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association reports fentanyl-related fatalities among children and teens increased more than 30-fold between 2013 and 2021. And, although the opioid epidemic has created the most severe impact in the U.S. and Canada, there is hardly a country on Earth not suffering from the harmful effect of drugs. But there are simple actions anyone can take to help save lives, according to Foundation for a Drug-Free World, the drug education and prevention campaign the Church of Scientology supports.

While the numbers are bleak, the effect of drug overdose on the families and friends of the victims can never be expressed by a statistic.

"When there's death involved, that's forever," says Lance Dyer whose son Dakota took his life after one hit of a synthetic cannabinoid. "The pain, the hurt, the anguish to your parents, your friends, your loved ones - the ramifications of your choices go way past you getting high," he says in an episode of Voices for Humanity on the new season of the Scientology Network.

Like thousands of individuals and groups internationally, Dyer adopted the Truth About Drugs campaign of Foundation for a Drug-Free World because when he visits schools to talk to kids about drugs using these materials, the fact-based information in the booklets and videos creates impact and helps them reevaluate their ideas and make the firm decision not to take drugs.

To bring community leaders together to tackle this urgent issue, Scientology Churches are marking International Overdose Awareness Day this weekend with conferences, drug education training, and drug prevention and awareness initiatives. And they are screening episodes of Voices for Humanity to show how effective these materials are and how easy it is to reach kids with the truth.

According to the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, "Prevention strategies based on scientific evidence working with families, schools, and communities can ensure that children and youth, especially the most marginalized and poor, grow and stay healthy and safe into adulthood and old age. For every dollar spent on prevention, at least ten can be saved in future health, social and crime costs."

Budget cuts and post-pandemic recession have made it even harder to fund drug education and prevention than before. But thanks to the support of Scientology Churches and Scientologists, Drug-Free World makes these materials available free of charge to anyone wishing to use them to educate themselves, their families, friends and communities about drugs.

When Julieta Santagostina learned about Drug-Free World she helped organize a protest that ended up getting local drug houses shut down. "But there was a reason that drugs were around. There was demand for drugs," she says. And there is demand because people, especially children, are not well informed. "People take advantage of these kids," she says in her episode of Voices for Humanity that shows how Santagostina soon became president of Drug-Free World Florida, which is changing the entire dynamic on this issue across her state.

In his episode of Voices for Humanity, Drug-Free World Italy Executive Director Oreste Depaoli recalls how older boys introduced him to using drugs when he was 12. He soon became an addict and at 19, he nearly died of an overdose. "More and more people are dying of drug overdose in Italy every year," says Depaoli who points out that where there are drugs, there are guns, crime and death. "If people knew what drugs really lead to, they could choose not to take them," he says.

Learn more about how simple it is to make a difference. Watch Voices for Humanity on the Scientology Network.

Since launching in 2018 with an introduction by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige, the Scientology Network has been viewed in over 240 countries and territories in 17 languages. Satisfying the curiosity of people about the Scientology religion and Founder L. Ron Hubbard, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists, showing the Church as a global organization, and presenting its social betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. The network also showcases documentaries by independent filmmakers who represent a cross-section of cultures and faiths, but share a common purpose of uplifting communities.

Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse and can be streamed at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

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

https://www.drugfreeworld.org

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO

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

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/lance-dyer.html

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/julieta-santagostino.html

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/oreste-depaoli.html

More than 109,000 Americans died of drug overdose in the 12-month period ending Jan. 2023. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association reports fentanyl-related fatalities among children and teens increased more than 30-fold between 2013 and 2021. But there are simple actions anyone can take to help save lives, according to Foundation for a Drug-Free World, the drug education and prevention campaign the Church of Scientology supports.

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

McNab House & Botanical Gardens Awarded $1.5 Million in Grants – Pompano Beach CRA Announces Next Phase of Redevelopment

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Pompano Beach CRA is proud to announce that the McNab House & Botanical Gardens project has been awarded two prestigious grants totaling $1.5 million. The Cultural Facilities Program Grant has awarded $500,000 for the construction of the botanical gardens and children's classroom, while the $1 million Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Program Grant will go towards outdoor recreational use of the site. These grants will facilitate the progress of this historic preservation and economic development project, with further advances coming with the September announcement of the architectural firm that will be awarded this project.

"We are honored to have been awarded these significant grants, which attest to the importance of this project," said Nguyen Tran, CRA Director. "The McNab House and Botanical Gardens will create a destination venue which will have a positive economic impact on our City. These grants will help us continue developing our vision of a world-class experience for residents and visitors alike."

The CRA relocated the McNab House and garage to its namesake park located on the main commercial corridor of Pompano Beach for adaptive reuse as a restaurant and botanical garden. The LWCF grant will specifically go towards the construction of pathways, an interactive water feature, playground elements, seating, landscaping, restrooms, and design and engineering fees for the McNab House and Botanical Gardens Project, and the Cultural Facilities grant will support the building of the children's classroom and the botanical gardens.

These grants are part of the next phase of this project, which will be advancing with the announcement of the architectural firm. An RFQ was announced for architectural design services several months ago and received five respondents. An evaluation committee scored the respondents, and a recommendation for the highest scoring architect will be brought forth at the CRA September board meeting. With board approval, the site plan process will continue along with restauranteur operator negotiations. Additional opportunities to provide public input will be available in the future.

The McNab House, built in 1926, was moved from its original location on Atlantic Boulevard, when the owners sold the land for development. With the support of the Pompano Beach Historical Society, the Pompano Beach CRA saved the historic home, moving it several blocks to McNab Park, with the vision of transforming the home into a restaurant and the surrounding land into a botanical garden. The goal of the McNab House & Botanical Gardens project is to continue economic growth within the East CRA and Atlantic Boulevard corridor. Activation of the public space will encourage more pedestrian activity and create a unique attraction for residents and visitors to enjoy.

About the Pompano Beach CRA:

The CRA was created in 1989. It has two independent districts: Northwest CRA and East CRA established by City government for the purpose of carrying out redevelopment activities that include reducing or eliminating blight, improving the economic health of an area, and encouraging public and private investments in a CRA district.

The CRA is funded through Tax Increment Financing (TIF). The funds are collected as property values increase and a portion of that increase is captured by the Agency. TIF raises revenue for redevelopment efforts without raising taxes.

For more information: https://www.pompanobeachfl.gov/government/cra/

The Pompano Beach CRA is proud to announce that the McNab House & Botanical Gardens project has been awarded two prestigious grants totaling $1.5 million. The Cultural Facilities Program Grant has awarded $500,000 for the construction of the botanical gardens and children's classroom, while the $1 million Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Program Grant will go towards outdoor recreational use of the site.

Rediscover Nostalgia with New Better-for-You Bubblegum from Bubblegum Kids!

TORONTO, Ontario /ScoopCloud/ -- Introducing Bubblegum Kids- a sugar-free gum with that classic bubblegum flavor, offering a nostalgic journey back to the carefree days of childhood with every delightful chew. Guided by their passion for bubblegum, Oliver and Zach Hyman embarked on a mission to craft a high-quality, health-conscious alternative to traditional bubblegum. Bubblegum Kids is available for purchase today at https://bubblegumkids.com/.

"We aimed to capture that timeless bubblegum flavor that instantly transports you back to your childhood. Becoming parents inspired us to create a healthier version of a beloved classic, ensuring that everyone can enjoy that classic bubblegum taste," explained Oliver Hyman, CEO and co-founder of Bubblegum Kids.

With the launch of Bubblegum Kids, prepare for an exciting surprise with the unveiling of the BGK Bonanza- a sweepstakes extravaganza! With every purchase of Bubblegum Kids gum, participants unlock entries into the BGK Bonanza giveaway, offering an opportunity to win a remarkable $30,000 worth of nostalgic prizes. Among the prizes lies a dream trip to Disneyland and Universal Studios. Additional prizes include PlayStations, Barbie Dream House, Furbys, a Toys "R" Us shopping spree, and a myriad of other enchanting surprises.

"Oliver and I have created Bubblegum Kids to be a testament to both nostalgia and innovation. The Bubblegum industry has been yearning for innovation and compelling storytelling, and we are here," adds Zach Hyman, co-founder of Bubblegum Kids.

Starting today, Bubblegum Kids' Original Blend flavor is available for purchase on www.bubblegumkids.com. A single bottle is priced at $9.99 per pack, and a six-pack can be yours for $39.99, with each bottle containing 55 pieces of bubblegum. For further details on Bubblegum Kids and the BGK Bonanza, visit https://bubblegumkids.com/.

About Bubblegum Kids

Bubblegum Kids is a pioneering force in the confectionery industry, creating innovative treats that capture delightful and nostalgic experiences. Committed to excellence, ingenuity, and fostering a sense of community, Bubblegum Kids is dedicated to infusing joy and magic into the lives of individuals spanning generations. Our mission is clear: awaken the cherished wonders of childhood while creating high quality & healthier alternative treats. For upcoming announcements, please explore Bubblegumkids.com or engage with us on social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.

About Oliver Hyman

As the CEO of Bubblegum Kids, Oliver Hyman brings a wealth of experience as a serial entrepreneur in the direct-to-consumer (D2C) product realm. Oliver's deep understanding of consumer trends and penchant for innovation drive the brand's strategic growth.

About Zach Hyman

Zach Hyman is a renowned NHL player, currently playing for the Edmonton Oilers. Beyond hockey, Zach is an acclaimed author of children's books and serves as the CEO of Soar Gaming. His gift for creative storytelling and entrepreneurial acumen play pivotal roles in shaping the vision of Bubblegum Kids.

Introducing Bubblegum Kids- a sugar-free gum with that classic bubblegum flavor, offering a nostalgic journey back to the carefree days of childhood with every delightful chew. Guided by their passion for bubblegum, Oliver and Zach Hyman embarked on a mission to craft a high-quality, health-conscious alternative to traditional bubblegum.

Related link: https://bubblegumkids.com/

Dovinto Announces New Importation and Distribution Agreement with The American Spirits Exchange

BAJA CALIFORNIA, Mexico /ScoopCloud/ -- Dovinto Vinicola Destino is pleased to announce a significant milestone in its journey towards bringing exceptional wines to enthusiasts in the U.S. Dovinto has entered into a strategic importation and distribution agreement with The American Spirits Exchange which promises to extend the availability of Dovinto's premium wines to the broader U.S. audience, enriching the wine experiences of connoisseurs and newcomers alike. With its rich heritage and dedication to producing exceptional wines, Dovinto aims to captivate wine enthusiasts across America with the unique flavors and characteristics of is uniquely-created premium Mexican wines.

Guided by a passion for winemaking and a commitment to sustainable practices, Dovinto has already won awards for its first two vintage years (2017-18) in international competition. The Dovinto vineyards are nestled in the picturesque region of Baja California, the birthplace of wine cultivation in the Americas, where the perfect combination of climate, soil, and elevation creates an optimal environment for grape cultivation. This distinct terroir imparts a distinctive quality to the wines, resulting in a diverse portfolio red and white wines that showcases the true essence of winemaking.

"We have spent the last ten years perfecting the systems and cultivating the grapes for our beyond-organic and sustainable wine-making process," said founder Jesus Sesma. "We are excited to announce our partnership with ASE, a company that shares our values of quality, passion, and customer satisfaction. Through this collaboration, we are poised to introduce our exceptional sustainable wines to U.S. wine enthusiasts, enriching their wine experience and leaving a lasting impression."

Dovinto takes pride in blending traditional methods, innovative techniques and sustainable practices, ensuring that the production process respects the environment and the surrounding communities. By implementing eco-friendly initiatives such as water conservation, solar energy utilization and organic farming methods, Dovinto strives to protect the natural beauty of the regions where its vineyards flourish. Dovinto manufactures its own bio-fertilizers, bio-fungicides and bio-pesticides on the property, all using natural methods.

"The partnership between ASE and Dovinto is a testament to both companies' dedication to delivering excellence and creating memorable moments for American wine enthusiasts," said Philip Kolodziey, President of ASE.

Starting in California and eventually expanding throughout the U.S., Dovinto's wines will soon be available at select retailers, fine dining establishments and through its online platform. This will allow wine enthusiasts to indulge in the finest expressions of winemaking.

About Dovinto:

Established by Jesus Sesma in 2010, Dovinto is dedicated to producing only the finest organic wines that can rival the world's best. He chose Baja California, the birthplace of wine cultivation in the Americas, as the home for Dovinto Vinicola Destino. Dovinto is an award-winning winery that believes in natural, biological, sustainable and sustainable viticulture. It uses solar energy in 100% of its processes, vinifying without corrections or additives and taking care of the soil because it is the key to our health and a healthy environment. Dovinto manufactures its own bio-fertilizers, bio-fungicides and bio-pesticides on-site, all using natural methods. No herbicides are used - weeds are manually removed and reincorporated into the soil. For more information, please visit: https://dovinto.com

About ASE:

The American Spirits Exchange was started by academics and executives who wanted to leave the corporate grid and pursue their passion for artisanal beverages. Its leadership is made up of partners who dedicate themselves to helping its clients achieve long-term growth and participating in broader activities to shape the industry. Its mission as a national spirits importer and distributor is to help make artisan brands broadly available, promote exceptional beverages in the U.S. and educate consumers about the art and science of craft alcohol beverages. ASE focuses on the non-glamorous, back-office work of the industry, such as complicated alcohol beverage compliance. For more information, please visit: https://americanspiritsltd.com/

Dovinto Vinicola Destino is pleased to announce a significant milestone in its journey towards bringing exceptional wines to enthusiasts in the U.S. Dovinto has entered into a strategic importation and distribution agreement with The American Spirits Exchange which promises to extend the availability of Dovinto's premium wines to the broader U.S. audience, enriching the wine experiences of connoisseurs and newcomers alike

Related link: https://dovinto.com/en

MMI ranks No. 15 on Utah Fast 50 list of fastest-growing companies

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah /ScoopCloud/ -- Mobility Market Intelligence (MMI), a leader in data intelligence and market insight tools for the mortgage and real estate industries, today announced it ranks No. 15 on the 2023 Utah Business list of fastest-growing companies in the state. This marks MMI's second consecutive appearance on the list and in the top 15.

After debuting on the list at No. 11 in 2022, MMI has experienced sustained and immense growth. MMI is currently used by more than 350 enterprise customers, including 40 of the top 50 lenders in the country.

In 2022, loan originators (LOs) with MMI accounts produced 1.9X the volume of LOs with MMI. MMI continues to develop and provide tools and integrations to analyze as well as further insights specific to users' business objectives. MMI has already released six new tools in 2023 to help LOs and lenders continue to outperform their peers.

"As a Utah native, I consider it a privilege to contribute to the state's flourishing business community," said MMI founder and CEO Ben Teerlink. "The Utah Fast 50 is an impressive list of growing companies and it is an honor to be included among their ranks."

Fast 50 companies are established companies selected based on a combination of revenue growth and total revenue and are vetted by Squire and Co. for financial accuracy. They are ranked in order of 2022 growth and must have been in business for at least two years.

About MMI

Mobility Market Intelligence (MMI) is a market leader in data intelligence and market insight tools for the mortgage and real estate industries. Headquartered in Salt Lake City, the company's signature product, MMI, provides actionable intelligence for lenders, real estate agents, real estate brokerages, title companies and others in the real estate industry. MMI is currently used by more than 350 enterprise customers, including 20 of the top 25 lenders in the country. To learn more, visit https://mmi.io or contact sales@mmi.io.

Mobility Market Intelligence (MMI), a leader in data intelligence and market insight tools for the mortgage and real estate industries, today announced it ranks No. 15 on the 2023 Utah Business list of fastest-growing companies in the state. This marks MMI's second consecutive appearance on the list and in the top 15.

Related link: https://mmi.io

Direct Mail Benchmark Report reveals 89% of marketers have increased or maintained direct mail investments in the last year

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. /ScoopCloud/ -- New industry research commissioned by SeQuel Response and conducted by ISG Research shows 89% of marketers have increased or maintained direct mail investments in the last year, up 3% from 2022 data.

The 2023 Direct Mail Marketing Benchmark Report provides an analysis of the current direct mail marketing landscape and its effectiveness, showcasing data collected from both B2B and B2C marketing leaders and consumers. The full report is available at https://www.sequeldm.com/directmailreport.

In challenging environments, marketers are expected to demonstrate increased faith in the marketing channels that reliably deliver measurable response rates and conversions. Looking at direct mail specifically, strong channel performance continues to justify consistent spend year over year. Additional findings from the report indicate marketers aren't the only ones who trust direct mail to reach their audience. Consumers of all ages are embracing the offline channel to engage with new brands and services.

* Despite a digital world, direct mail remains both relevant and impactful: 70% of marketers report that direct mail performance has improved, up 5% from 2022.

* Marketers are increasingly weaving direct mail into their omnichannel strategies: 91% of respondents report that integration positively impacts campaign performance.

* Direct mail fights digital ad fatigue: 69% of consumers engage with mail each week.

* Audience targeting and data access limitations are top on the list of challenges for mailers: 50% of marketers are concerned about reaching their audiences due to increased data security regulations.

About SeQuel Response:

SeQuel Response has quickly become the go-to direct response advertising agency for growth-oriented consumer brands looking to launch and rapidly scale their direct mail and digital marketing campaigns. SeQuel's commitment to investing in clients' success and shaping the future of direct response marketing continues to deliver exceptional results and position the agency as an industry leader. SeQuel is ranked as a top marketing agency in Minneapolis, Minnesota and has been named to the Inc. 5000 list of fastest growing private companies in the U.S.

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

New industry research commissioned by SeQuel Response and conducted by ISG Research shows 89% of marketers have increased or maintained direct mail investments in the last year, up 3% from 2022 data. The 2023 Direct Mail Marketing Benchmark Report provides an analysis of the current direct mail marketing landscape.

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

Danielle Alura Miss Global USA Shines Bright on NASDAQ Seven-Story Billboard in Times Square: A Tribute to Her Philanthropy and Achievements

NEW YORK CITY, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- The bustling heart of New York City, Times Square, is known for its dazzling lights and vibrant energy. Recently, it witnessed a new star rise to prominence; Danielle Alura, the reigning Miss Global USA 2023 took center stage as her remarkable achievements and philanthropic endeavors were showcased on the iconic seven-story NASDAQ billboard.

From her role as a multi-talented actress, model, singer, and rally race car enthusiast, to her impactful work in philanthropy, Danielle Alura's journey is one that inspires, uplifts and intrigues. With more than 45 magazines gracing her portfolio, an impressive impact with her national charity, it's no wonder that NASDAQ highlighted Danielle on their billboard in NYC.

A Philanthropic Powerhouse and Advocate for Change

At the heart of Danielle's recognition is her unwavering commitment to philanthropy. As an advocate and member of the United Nations Association of USA, she has championed causes focused on building a Green Economy and addressing economic and racial inequalities. Her efforts have garnered her the prestigious 2020 Olive Branch Certificate of Recognition from the Coalition for Peace Action.

However, Danielle's philanthropic journey extends far beyond accolades. She has played a pivotal role in addressing family homelessness with the Family Promise Organization since she was 14 years old. With a passionate drive to break the cycle of homelessness, she has been an integral part of raising about 5 million dollars for the organization in the past six years, rehousing over 380 families and impacting the future of children across the nation. She has sat as the Secretary of the board, rose to be voted as Vice President, event committee Chair and capital fundraiser actively seeking donors from coast to coast.

A Multifaceted Talent with Global Impact

Danielle's achievements are as diverse as they are impressive. Singing opera in her grandfather's kitchen as a child to singing for a stadium on TV in China ...to race co-pilot in prestigious rallies such as the Mille Miglia, Pebble Beach and the Ferrari Cavalcade... She embodies a spirit of adventure and a determination to conquer new horizons. Her passion and dedication have taken her all around the world showcasing her ability to use her platform for positive change. She simply crosses diverse worlds with grace and ease.

The NASDAQ billboard in Times Square illuminated the evening with a larger-than-life headshot of Danielle Alura is a reminder that in a world filled with challenges, there are individuals like Danielle who rise above and use their influence to drive change, inspire others, and leave an indelible mark on society. This mark in the media underlines the power of resilience, compassion and the potential of any individual's capability to shape the world as long as you have the passion and the heart. With each passing day, Danielle Alura continues to prove that her presence on the world stage is not just a result of her talent and beauty, but also a reflection of her soul's motivation and commitment to making the world a better place.

A Proud Representation of the USA

In a time where we can use better leaders, showcasing Danielle and her accomplishments testament to her role as an ideal ambassador for her country and a role model for future generations. As Miss Global USA, she has already accomplished so much for her charity, Family Promise OC, and has made many appearances to new countries around the world. Danielle Alura's commitment to "empowering women, embracing cultures, and embodying the beauty within" resonates perfectly with the values of the Miss Global Organization.

This November, Danielle will represent the USA as she competes for the international title of the Miss Global 2023 in the world Pageant in Vietnam. She carries with her the pride and support of a nation that recognizes her as a symbol of hope and inspiration. The deserving winner of the world title reigns for one year and graces the cover of Harper's Bazaar Magazine amongst many other life changing opportunities.

MORE INFORMATION ON MISS GLOBAL USA:

Email: MissGlobalUSApageants@gmail.com for more information on competing at the state level for the chance to win the national title. Registration is open to ladies not married, may have children and are between the ages of 18-35 years

FOLLOW HER HERE:

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

TikTok: @danialura

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO OF BILLBOARD DEBUT:

https://youtube.com/shorts/dJg6w6a5eds

PHOTO link for media:

https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/23-0829-s2p-alura-timessq-300dpi.jpg

Photo caption: Danielle Alura Miss Global USA 2023 in front of her billboard in Times Square, NYC

The bustling heart of New York City, Times Square, is known for its dazzling lights and vibrant energy. Recently, it witnessed a new star rise to prominence; Danielle Alura, the reigning Miss Global USA 2023 took center stage as her remarkable achievements and philanthropic endeavors were showcased on the iconic seven-story NASDAQ billboard.

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

Prominent Podiatrist Brings Decades Of Experience To Brandon, Wesley Chapel

BRANDON, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- A veteran podiatric surgeon is taking his years of experience in the classroom and the surgical suite to Modern Foot & Ankle. For more than two decades, Dean Sorrento, DPM, a double board-certified foot and ankle specialist, has embraced a nuanced solution to fully educate his patients regarding their diagnoses and treatment options.

"I use a technology-based, patient-centric approach that simplifies the challenge and offers real solutions," he explained.

This is in line with the approach of Modern Foot & Ankle, a leading-edge podiatric group with 13 clinics in Tampa and Orlando, Fla. The practice prioritizes customer service and leverages advanced technologies to provide each patient with a unique, comfortable, and efficient experience.

Dr. Sorrento says he believes patients will appreciate the streamlined care that simplifies their visits and makes them more enjoyable. Today he will start seeing patients, dividing his time between the Brandon clinic, located at 540 Medical Oaks Avenue, and the Wesley Chapel office at 5841 Argerian Drive.

"My family and I enjoy the activities and sporting events found on the west coast as well as the beaches," he said. "Being in the Wesley Chapel and Brandon areas will allow us to be in a suburban family community while still being close to all that Tampa has to offer."

Dr. Sorrento spent 22 years of his medical career in Pennsylvania after completing his training at the University of Pennsylvania. He co-founded a podiatric practice and later merged with an orthopedic group-all while educating the next generation of foot and ankle surgeons as an assistant professor at Penn State University.

"To teach podiatry and simultaneously practice it is to gain a comprehensive, real-time knowledge base," said Dr. Sorrento. "I was consistently sharing my experiences in the practice with my students."

With a wide range of skills and many years of practice, Dr. Sorrento's special interests include deformity correction, sports medicine, and cutting-edge bunion procedures. Yet he underscores the importance of solving problems without surgical intervention and preserving it as a last resort.

"Being a podiatrist offers an opportunity to alleviate patients' problems in many different areas, such as injury, sports medicine, biomechanics, and surgery, if needed," he said. "Patients should come to my office if they desire a comfortable, educational experience with a modern twist."

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Sorrento, visit book.mfahealth.com or call 1-844-MODERN9.

About Modern Foot & Ankle(R)

Through Big-City Technology. Small-Town Care.(r) Modern Foot & Ankle is reshaping the patient experience and curating a progressive model for podiatric healthcare. Our physicians provide comprehensive medical and surgical solutions for foot and ankle conditions in clinics across Central Florida and South Florida. With 24/7 online booking and check-in, extended office hours, advanced on-site equipment, and cutting-edge treatment options, Modern Foot & Ankle serves patients efficiently, comfortably, and on their schedule. For more information, visit https://www.modernfootankle.com/.

Contact: Lindsay Siegel, Modern Foot & Ankle

Phone: (813) 549-5678

Email: marketing@mfahealth.com

A veteran podiatric surgeon is taking his years of experience in the classroom and the surgical suite to Modern Foot & Ankle. For more than two decades, Dean Sorrento, DPM, a double board-certified foot and ankle specialist, has embraced a nuanced solution to fully educate his patients regarding their diagnoses and treatment options.

Related link: https://modernfootankle.com/

NEPA Builders Hosts Grand Opening of New Blakeley Location

BLAKELY, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- NEPA Builders is excited to announce that they are hosting a grand opening at their new location: 2808 Scranton Carbondale Hwy, Blakely, PA 18447 on September 9 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. They're inviting the public to visit and meet their team and brand-new showroom over tasty refreshments.

"Our aim to provide excellent service to our clients is reflected in our new, more-conveniently situated premises on Business Route 6 in Blakely," Toby Grzenda, owner, says. "With a showroom that is four times larger than before, we now have a dedicated design studio space and customers can expect a distinctive experience when working with our designers and consultants."

Customers will also have the added convenience of selecting all their materials in one place so they can visualize how those materials will enhance their home during their designer consultation.

Grand opening sponsors include: Owens Corning, Union Corrugating, Silverline, 84 Lumber, GP Siding, BlueLinx, CertainTeed, Union Metal and Schrock Cabinets.

All of these sponsors work with NEPA to ensure customers receive a top-notch new construction or remodeling experience in the way of innovative materials and sustainable solutions.

About NEPA Builders:

Founded in 2012, NEPA Builders is a leading construction company with a division in General Contracting as well as a division in Exterior Renovations. They have assembled a talented team that places high value on integrity and is dedicated to "Building a Better Northeast." From remodeling to new construction, decking to roofing, NEPA Builders has its clients covered.

MORE INFORMATION:

NEPA Builders: https://www.nepabldrs.com/

MULTIMEDIA:

NEPA on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x7Y9EmMAUlQ

NEPA Builders is excited to announce that they are hosting a grand opening at their new location: 2808 Scranton Carbondale Hwy, Blakely, PA 18447 on September 9 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. They're inviting the public to visit and meet their team and brand-new showroom over tasty refreshments.

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

CCHR Florida: A 2023 Platinum Award Finalist for its Campaign to Protect Families

CLEARWATER, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- After winning the PRNEWS Platinum Award for Government Relations in 2022, Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR) Florida is once again a finalist for 2023. Learn about CCHR Florida President Diane Stein and the battle she leads to prevent coercive psychiatry from harming Florida families. Watch her episode on Voices for Humanity on the Scientology Network.

After taking home the PRNEWS Platinum Award in 2022 for its work to protect the human rights of families, CCHR Florida is a finalist for 2023 in the category of Activism/Advocacy Campaigns. The story of how CCHR Florida President Diane Stein came to take up the battle to end the grip of coercive psychiatry in her state is documented in an episode of Voices for Humanity on the Scientology Network.

Learn how Stein found out about the state's repressive Baker Act when her mother was committed in a spurious use of the procedure after experiencing an adverse reaction to a medication. "That was a wake-up call," she says. Because of her familiarity with CCHR, Stein was able to navigate the system and get her mother released. But she realized that if this could happen to her family, it must be devastating to others who don't have any idea how to deal with such a violation of their family's rights.

In 2016, of the 19 million residents of Florida, nearly 200,000 were committed against their will through the Baker Act. Some 32,000 of these were children, who could be committed based on this law without their parents' knowledge or permission.

"Using social media and other means of communication, we were able to raise awareness on these issues and spur Florida families to contact members of the Florida Legislature," says Stein. They filed numerous complaints, exposed abuse through news stories and social media, partnered with other organizations, and ran information campaigns, creating a grassroots movement that put pressure on Florida lawmakers to make the issue a priority. As a result, the number of people committed under the Baker Act in Florida dropped for three straight years.

Continuing their pressure, in 2021 they helped see to the passing of new legislation including a Parents' Bill of Rights. "The success of this campaign showcased that a small group of well-intentioned parents can effect meaningful change," says Stein.

"CCHR gave me the insights I needed and the courage I needed to demand that they release my son," says a woman whose child was wrongly committed through the Baker Act. "I had someone on my side. I had someone to support me in uncharted waters."

Citizens Commission on Human Rights was cofounded in 1969 by professor of psychiatry Dr. Thomas Szasz and the Church of Scientology. With headquarters in Los Angeles, California, CCHR International guides a global human rights advocacy network of some 180 chapters across more than 30 nations. CCHR Commissioners include physicians, psychiatrists, psychologists, lawyers, legislators, government officials, educators and civil rights representatives.

The Scientology Network features episodes of Voices for Humanity on CCHR's human rights advocacy from Florida to France and from London to Los Angeles.

Since launching in 2018 with an introduction from Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige, the Scientology Network has been viewed in over 240 countries and territories in 17 languages. Satisfying the curiosity of people about the Scientology religion and Founder L. Ron Hubbard, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists, showing the Church as a global organization, and presenting its social betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. The network also showcases documentaries by independent filmmakers who represent a cross-section of cultures and faiths, but share a common purpose of uplifting communities.

Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse and can be streamed at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

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

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/diane-stein.html

https://www.cchrflorida.org/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO

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

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/diane-stein.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ry3HABEHi3Y

After winning the PRNEWS Platinum Award for Government Relations in 2022, Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR) Florida is once again a finalist for 2023. Learn about CCHR Florida President Diane Stein and the battle she leads to prevent coercive psychiatry from harming Florida families. Watch her episode on Voices for Humanity on the Scientology Network.

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

Celebrating Growth and Expertise: Matthew Weber Promoted to Principal at KROST

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- KROST, a leading CPA and consulting firm, is thrilled to announce the promotion of Matthew Weber to the esteemed position of Principal. Matthew's dedication, experience, and exceptional contributions have led to this well-deserved advancement within the organization.

Matthew Weber, who joined KROST's tax practice in July 2015, brings with him over a decade of experience in public accounting, having embarked on his career journey in 2010. His passion for intricate tax matters, strategic financial planning, and client-centered solutions has propelled him to the forefront of the industry. Prior to his current role, Matt served as a Tax Manager at a Big 4 firm in Los Angeles, showcasing his commitment to excellence.

As a Tax Director at KROST, Matt has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of federal and multi-state tax compliance and consulting for individuals, corporations, and partnerships. His expertise spans across a wide range of industries, including financial services, real estate, entertainment, restaurants, technology, and manufacturing. Matt's insights have played an instrumental role in simplifying complex financial challenges for clients.

CEO, Jason Melillo expressed his excitement about Matt's promotion, stating, "Matt Weber's journey and achievements at KROST exemplify our dedication to providing unparalleled expertise to our clients. As he assumes the role of Principal, we are excited to see him further elevate our services and contribute to the success of our clients."

As Principal, Matt will continue to lead the charge in delivering top-tier client-centered solutions, fostering innovation, and contributing to the continued growth of KROST.

Learn more about Matthew Weber " https://www.krostcpas.com/management/matthew-weber

Learn more about our Tax Services " https://www.krostcpas.com/services/tax-services

For more information or any questions regarding our services, please contact us at: https://www.krostcpas.com/contact

About KROST:

Established in 1939 in Pasadena, California, KROST is a full-service Certified Public Accounting and Consulting firm serving individual and business clients of various sizes and industries. With a team of experienced professionals, KROST is committed to delivering innovative solutions that drive growth and success. Smaller-scale businesses can receive resources that are otherwise not accessible to them through talented professionals who have experience working with multimillion-dollar corporations and individuals.

KROST, a leading CPA and consulting firm, is thrilled to announce the promotion of Matthew Weber to the esteemed position of Principal. Matthew's dedication, experience, and exceptional contributions have led to this well-deserved advancement within the organization.

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

The beloved novel and cult classic ‘The Joy of Funerals’ is set for a special edition rerelease

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- "The Joy of Funerals" (ISBN: 979-8988500018) hailed as "Six Feet Under" meets "Sex & the City" - was originally released in 2003 by St. Martin's Press. In honor of its 20th anniversary, Palagram Press is reissuing the novel on Oct. 2, 2023, to highlight this triumphant milestone with an updated cover and new letter from the award-winning author and New York Times contributor, Alix Strauss.

"The Joy of Funerals" centers around Nina, a lonely, single, thirty-something Manhattanite who goes to other people's funerals in the hope of connecting with the mourners in an attempt to fill the deep loneliness created by the inability to connect with the people in her life.

The novel highlights the loneliness we all feel as human beings and our deep, innate, and necessary need we have for real relationships - something we are losing. Timing for a rerelease couldn't be more necessary, or perfect, especially after a pandemic, where we have been forced into an unwanted lifestyle of solitude, our deep ache for organic - non zooming, non-device driven, human to human connection has been intensified - we have been mentally, physically, and emotional starved. Much like Nina.

If timing is everything, then the world has caught up with Alix Strauss. It seems that books offering once "taboo" or too-edgy and dark themes are finally having a moment - e.g., "I'm Glad My Mom Died," "Dear Edward," "Bittersweet," "Sorry for Your Loss," and a slew of others, are titles performing well and hitting a nerve right now with readers.

Throughout this powerful and provocative collection, these characters explore the basic need for human connection while seeking to understand themselves better. It is the 'where do I belong' and the 'how do I fit in' that these sad, bright, and amazingly strong women seek to answer.

Written with raw wit, mordant humor and a uniquely penetrating voice, Strauss turns the spotlight on the unattractive subjects of loss, grief, and loneliness. "The Joy of Funerals" is a smart, vivid, and arresting look into the inner world of those left behind, and those still holding on.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Author Alix Strauss is a trend, culture, and lifestyle journalist; an award-winning, four-time published author; and speaker. She is a frequent contributor to the New York Times, among other publications. During the past 25 years she has written over 1,500 articles. Her books include: "The Joy of Funerals" (St. Martin's Press & Palagram Press), "Based Upon Availability" (Harper Collins), and "Death Becomes Them: Unearthing the Suicides of the Brilliant, the Famous and the Notorious" (Harper Collins). She is also the editor of "Have I Got a Guy for You" (Simon & Schuster), an anthology of mother coordinated dating horror stories. Her work has been an option for several TV and film projects. She lives in Manhattan.

You can connect with Alix at https://www.alixstrauss.com/ or @alixstrauss.

"When I first sat down to write this, I wanted to highlight how important and intense our need to connect with each other can be," said Strauss. "I hoped to show the loneliness we can all feel as humans and the deep, innate, and necessary desires we have for real relationships...and what can happen when those don't exist. Two decades later these needs and desires still resonate for me, and it seems, with readers."

The Wall Street Journal called "The Joys of Funerals," "An evocative novel in stories with interconnected characters who are recognizably human. 'The Joy of Funerals' is decidedly about the here and now."

"The Joy of Funerals," on sale October 2, 2023 will be available via Amazon and other online retailers as well as your favorite local bookstore. Pre-orders are available wherever books are sold.

Available on Amazon at: https://a.co/d/fSAMcyL

Ms. Strauss is available for interviews, readings, and events.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Ed Bajek

201-560-3831

ed@bajekpublisherservices.com

"The Joy of Funerals" (ISBN: 979-8988500018) hailed as "Six Feet Under" meets "Sex & the City" - was originally released in 2003 by St. Martin's Press. In honor of its 20th anniversary, Palagram Press is reissuing the novel on Oct. 2, 2023, to highlight this triumphant milestone with an updated cover and new letter from the award-winning author and New York Times contributor, Alix Strauss.

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

Educator, Actress and Civil Rights Activist Releases Debut Children’s Picture Book

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Dr. Gwendolyn Mukes, a Los Angeles based actress, renowned educator and civil rights activist presents her debut children's book, "Gwen Didn't Care" (ISBN: 979-8985784428) at Full Circle Bookstore on August 26, 1900 NW Expy, Oklahoma City, OK, at 3 p.m. "Gwen Didn't Care" honors the 65th Anniversary of the nation's first approved sit-in movement, and tells a true story of the silly, ridiculous, unjust, unfair, unfortunate laws of Jim Crow.

Set against the backdrop of a 1948 childhood memory, "Gwen Didn't Care" invites readers on a journey, unveiling the injustices of our nation's past through her eyes as a young child. The story centers around a visit to the one-day-a-week zoo policy for People of Color, offering a glimpse into a world where segregation and discrimination were once the accepted way of life.

Dr. Gwendolyn Fuller Mukes, a life-long educator and one of the original 13 Katz Drug store sit-inners, uses her unique perspective to craft a whimsical narrative that is both approachable and engaging. Through the lens of an innocent child's curiosity, readers are gently introduced to the complexities of history, fostering a deeper understanding of the struggles and triumphs that have shaped our society.

"We have grown so much as a society...but we still have a lonnnng way to go," says Dr. Mukes. "I want to make sure my children, grandchildren, and all children know the history of our Country, for if they have no knowledge, history will surely repeat itself. It is important to teach that love IS stronger than hate; knowledge IS stronger than ignorance, and unity is stronger than division! Study and learn, for that can NEVER be taken from you!"

The book is currently available on Amazon and select bookstores.

On Amazon, "Gwen Didn't Care: A true tale of the silly, ridiculous, unjust, unfair, unfortunate laws of Jim Crow" https://a.co/d/gIVAwT2

BOOK SUMMARY:

"Gwen Didn't Care" by Dr. Gwendolyn Fuller Mukes

Publication Date: August 11, 2023

8 x 10 full picture book, 41 pages

(ISBN 979-8985784428)

Published by WF Publications

Dr. Gwendolyn Mukes, a Los Angeles based actress, renowned educator and civil rights activist presents her debut children's book, "Gwen Didn't Care" (ISBN: 979-8985784428) at Full Circle Bookstore on August 26, 1900 NW Expy, Oklahoma City, OK, at 3 p.m. "Gwen Didn't Care" honors the 65th Anniversary of the nation's first approved sit-in movement, and tells a true story of the silly, ridiculous, unjust, unfair, unfortunate laws of Jim Crow.