Tag Archives: Philadelphia Business

Elite Miss Pennsylvania Partners with 20+ East Coast Hotels – Projected to Prevent More Than 1 Ton of Plastic Waste from Landfills

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- Danielle Alura, Elite Miss Pennsylvania, received the 2020 Olive Branch Certificate of Recognition from the Coalition for Peace Action for her efforts against climate change, to build a green economy. One of the achievements this year was Danielle held a socially distanced green talk outside Philly for hotel owners.

The hotel association she met with as her first step of influence was AAHOA, the Asian American Hotel Owners Association, the majority being immigrant owned. The attendees interested in her green program represented more than 140+ east coast hotels. She has already been able to convince more than 20 hotels so far to pledge against their plastic waste!

By choosing to adopt at least one of her suggested plastic prevention initiatives into their business operations, this will successfully prevent over 1 ton of waste from our communities' landfills by 2021. She is still meeting with more hotels and franchises as they voice interest in her free green program to reduce plastic waste and save money while going green. A new hotel franchise with more than 100 hotels is on board to implement her "No Excuse for Single Use" Program across their whole franchise.

Danielle is the current Elite Miss Pennsylvania, a member of the United Nations of Greater Philadelphia, a member of their event committee, a member of the Coalition for Peace Action and a supporter of Family Promise, a non-profit helping the homeless. She has sat on their Executive Board as the Secretary, Chair of the event committee and Vice President of Family Promise of Orange County (FPOC). Danielle has helped raise more than $400,000 for charity in the past few years, of which $82,000 was raised virtually over the course of 24hrs for FPOC in the middle of this pandemic for the families.

Danielle admired how green conscious her mother was when growing up. Being the oldest of 4 adopted kids, she remembers, wearing hand-me-downs, recycling and repurposing things they simply couldn't throw away.

"I still remember leaving swim team practice and dropping the empty glass bottles into the recycling bins and hearing them break, or pulling over and watering neighbor's thirsty plants on their porch with our water bottles as we drove by."

After traveling to 9 countries last summer, from the Galapagos Islands, to China - she came across trash everywhere. Upon returning to the states, she searched for ways to create awareness and discovered there was a pageant system designed for such green leaders. Her platform: No Excuse for Single Use (NEFSU).

"First, I encouraged people to begin a zero waste home during the pandemic by taking simple green steps. I post a new sustainable video tip weekly to help you add new green habits to your lifestyle. However, going 'green' to impact climate change does not strictly rely on us as individuals. We need corporations to contribute their efforts for climate change. Otherwise - as individuals alone - we won't even make a dent in pollution. Therefore, the other side of my platform focuses on business. I have partnered with hotels as well to pledge against plastic waste."

Danielle has also lobbied alongside PennEnvironment, United Nations Greater Philadelphia and the CFPA against single use plastics in front of many elected officials. They also talked about the horrors of landfill pollutants into our water, air and food and the importance of increasing Electric Vehicle infrastructure. Danielle's platform "No Excuse for Single Use" will now be utilized by Rep. Ronni Green as a Zero Waste Home resource for the community.

Danielle Alura has recently written a number of original songs - all to the tune of climate change. Her whole life she has written original music but kept it only for her family to enjoy. Now, she will be releasing the first song ever entitled "Can You Hear Me." The original work also features a number of familiar celebrity faces endorsing her efforts for plastic reduction.

Write your elected officials, write your favorite brands on how it's important to go green and remember - there's "no excuse for single use." Danielle is competing for Elite Miss Earth USA in January.

For more information and to follow her journey go to: https://www.facebook.com/elitemisspennsylvania

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0730s2p-Danielle-Alura-300dpi.jpg
*Photo caption: In her first single release happening soon, Danielle Alura has made outfits completely out of single use items. Here she wears one made out of newspaper.

Danielle Alura, Elite Miss Pennsylvania, received the 2020 Olive Branch Certificate of Recognition from the Coalition for Peace Action for her efforts against climate change, to build a green economy. One of the achievements this year was Danielle held a socially distanced green talk outside Philly for hotel owners.

Sibi Health launches in Philadelphia, bringing convenience and transparency to healthcare payment by democratizing access

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- Sibi Health (www.SibiHealth.com), an online marketplace for healthcare services, is now available for individuals and businesses in the Philadelphia area. Sibi Health finally brings convenience and transparency to healthcare payment by democratizing access to local providers offering upfront transparent prices for both virtual and in-person care. By aligning the incentives of patients and providers, Sibi helps both take back control of their healthcare experience.

Geared toward self-employed professionals, gig-economy workers, and small businesses with limited health insurance, Sibi's platform allows individuals to find local quality doctors, see upfront transparent prices, book and pay all in one place with a few clicks -- no insurance needed. 67% of Americans are somewhat or very worried about receiving an unexpected bill after an appointment, compared to the 41% worried about paying their rent or mortgage. (1) With Sibi Health, finding and paying for healthcare is simple and stress-free so patients and their providers can focus their energy on great care.

Sibi's growing network includes board-certified healthcare providers across specialties, from primary care, dentistry and gynecology to dermatology and mental health. With Sibi, healthcare providers set their own rates and know they'll get paid directly and immediately, which gives them the freedom to offer patients better value for the care they provide while supporting their practice financially and themselves emotionally, since less time and money must be spent on administration. "The result is a win-win for patients and their providers. We connect them directly without the usual healthcare hassle so both sides end up on top. We help patients and providers work together and make the healthcare payment system more efficient in the process," says Sibi Health CEO, Catherine Bryt.

Anyone, regardless of insurance status, can use Sibi Health. While Sibi is a clear win for the uninsured and businesses who otherwise wouldn't offer health benefits, it's also a godsend for people with high deductible health plans and HSA accounts who, despite having insurance, still pay out-of-pocket for their medical care. This isn't a small group of people, it's 100M Americans (2,3,4).

"If you're unlikely to meet your deductible, Sibi Health can save you up to 90% for the same quality service because providers value upfront payment. We're taking what would otherwise be a back-room negotiation and making the results accessible to everyone," said Bryt. And for those sick of navigating insurance jargon and in- vs. out-of-network hoops, Sibi Health makes it simple.

In today's healthcare maze, Sibi Health is a refreshing approach toward creating affordable, straightforward healthcare that works for both the patient and the doctor. Bryt and her team have continued to grow Sibi Health during the COVID-19 pandemic. "What we're experiencing has only made more clear that there's a need for Sibi Health."

More information:
Website: https://www.sibihealth.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sibi.health/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sibihealth/

*VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/keV7-g3-G1M

About Sibi Health:

Sibi Health is an online marketplace for healthcare services that was founded in early 2020. With Sibi anyone can find a board-certified doctor or therapist, see upfront transparent prices, book & pay upfront in a few clicks - no insurance necessary.

Sources:
1. Kirzinger, A., Munana, C., Wu, B., & Brodie, M. Kaiser Family Foundation. (2019, June 11). Data Note: Americans' Challenges with Health Care Costs. Retrieved June 24, 2020, from https://www.kff.org/health-costs/issue-brief/data-note-americans-challenges-health-care-costs/
2. Berchick, E. R., Barnett, J. C., & Upton, R. D. (2019, November 08). Health Insurance Coverage in the United States: 2018. Retrieved May 29, 2020, from https://www.census.gov/library/publications/2019/demo/p60-267.html
3. Cohen, R. A., Ph.D., & Zammitti, E. P., M.P.H. (2018, August 09). High-deductible Health Plan Enrollment Among Adults Aged 18-64 With Employment-based Insurance Coverage. Retrieved May 29, 2020, from https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db317.htm
4. U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: United States. (n.d.). Retrieved May 29, 2020, from https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/US/PST045219

Sibi Health, an online marketplace for healthcare services, is now available for individuals and businesses in the Philadelphia area. Sibi Health finally brings convenience and transparency to healthcare payment by democratizing access to local providers offering upfront transparent prices for both virtual and in-person care.

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

Black Underrepresentation Worsens in Management, STEM Jobs

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- With Black Lives Matter and other protests against racial discrimination, discussions have broadened to include underrepresentation of blacks in management positions in the workplace. Despite decades of concern over the lack of diversity in management in U.S. companies, and overall employment growth from 2016 to 2019, the latest job index data shows black underrepresentation in management occupations has worsened over the past three years, Dr. Nathan Hardy finds. Among the worst: First-line supervisors of police.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and Census Bureau data was used to create a job representation index to measure over- and underrepresentation of gender and race groups for hundreds of occupations, which may be due to various factors such as discrimination. Bottom 25 occupations where blacks are underrepresented are mostly management (e.g., advertising and promotions managers, farmers and agricultural managers, construction managers, editors) and professional STEM and doctor jobs that require college degrees or certifications (e.g., statistical assistants, physical scientists, biological scientists, dentists).

Where are blacks overrepresented and have more success in landing jobs? Dominating the list of the Top 25 occupations in which blacks are overrepresented are government and healthcare jobs, and jobs that require little education and deal directly with the public like postal service clerks, bailiffs and corrections officers, taxi and bus drivers, phlebotomists, personal care aides, and barbers. With COVID-19 especially hurting these public facing jobs that cannot be done remotely, blacks have in turn been hurt in high numbers. Growing black overrepresentation since 2016 in many of these jobs has exacerbated the problem.

"The government has long been a leader in equal opportunity employment for blacks-it is time for businesses to step up its black employment efforts," Dr. Nathan Hardy says.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Dr. Nathan Hardy is an Assistant Professor of Marketing at Neumann University in Aston, Pa. in suburban Philadelphia. He is a member of the Insights Association and Neumann University Diversity Council. Dr. Hardy developed the job representation index to simplify comparisons between population groups and years and occupations.

ABOUT THE JOB REPRESENTATION INDEX:

The job representation index measures representation of gender, race, and other population groups in hundreds of jobs based on United States Bureau of Labor Statistics and Census Bureau data. An index score of 100 indicates normal employment equal to the population percentage of the group, less than 100 indicates underrepresentation, and more than 100 indicates overrepresentation. Historical index scores can help find areas of discrimination, how job initiatives change job trends for gender and race groups, how these groups migrate in and out of jobs, among other uses.

CHARTS RELATED TO THIS STORY:
Top 25 Overrepresented Jobs For Blacks Table Graphic: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NiHfPbfiIbUcBjRRCid7MJld6gQ3FjVn/view?usp=sharing

Bottom 25 Underrepresented Jobs For Blacks Table Graphic: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1CsDJZi7oJmSttphRuF8koigKiqx5-gSV/view?usp=sharing

Top 25 Overrepresented Jobs For Blacks % Gain Table Graphic: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bvZirMgyCp3YlvVCu7FiW8x9l12gsC-F/view?usp=sharing

Bottom 25 Underrepresented Jobs For Blacks % Loss Table Graphic: https://drive.google.com/file/d/15qXuy2Ap7B8irTkHTSZe_TSTr67RcwE6/view?usp=sharing

PHILADELPHIA, Pa., July 2, 2020 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- With Black Lives Matter and other protests against racial discrimination, discussions have broadened to include underrepresentation of blacks in management positions in the workplace. The latest job index data shows black underrepresentation in management occupations has worsened over the past three years, Dr. Nathan Hardy finds.

New Isolator XXX™ Column Delivers Increased SFC Purification Efficiency

PITTSBURGH, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- Thar Process Inc., global leader in the design and manufacture of advanced technologies for the extraction and purification of natural products, announces a new Isolator XXX(TM) phase for hemp/cannabis extract purification by supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC).

The Isolator(TM) series of column media (stationary phases) are specifically engineered for hemp/cannabis purification to allow Thar's customers to remediate their extracts from unwanted compounds such as pesticides/fungicides or THC; they work best when run on Isolator SFC(TM) series systems.

The novel Isolator XXX(TM) is a bonded silica-based stationary phase available in 10, 15 and 20 um sizes allowing for greater polar retention through a useful range of interaction mechanisms. Thar's Isolator SFC(TM) systems utilize dynamic axial compression (DAC) columns to allow for simple pack/re-packing of material - which allows users to switch applications daily if necessary.

Learn more: http://tharprocess.com/co2-extraction-and-purification-solutions/#IsolatorSFC

"We developed the Isolator XXX phase to help customers who were struggling with retention time variability, inadequate column lifetimes, long run times, and low retention of highly non-polar compounds like cannabinoids," explained Lalit Chordia, PhD., CEO of Thar Process. "With these new phases specifically designed for the interaction between hemp extract moving through a column in CO2 with only 2% ethanol as a co-solvent - we can dramatically reduce the operating costs associated with making compliant and non-detectable Broad Spectrum CBD oils."

To ensure high reproducibility, each Thar Isolator XXX(TM) column and batch is certified by a stringent QC process comparing both analytical and DAC columns from the same batch. This ensures the applicability of this new media for commonly used types of detection such as UV-VIS, ELSD and MS. In addition to the selectivity and particle performance benefits, a simplified set of running conditions was developed for use with the Isolator XXX(TM) system - allowing for universal training and support for customers around the world. Thar's new Isolator SFC(TM) customers can be found on 3 continents only 6 months after launching the Beta systems. The systems purify up to 3 kgs/day of extracts. Thar Process intends to publish significant data on the isolation of minor cannabinoids and other non-hemp natural product extracts in the coming months.

More information: http://tharprocess.com/

IMAGE LINKS FOR MEDIA:
[1] Photo: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0608s2p-thar-xxx-300dpi.jpg
[2] Logo: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0608s2p-thar-process-300dpi.jpg

Thar Process Inc., global leader in the design and manufacture of advanced technologies for the extraction and purification of natural products, announces a new Isolator XXX phase for hemp/cannabis extract purification by supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC).

Related link: http://tharprocess.com/

New Philadelphia Pedestrian Fatality Study Highlights Accident Statistics and Community Response

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Pearce Law Firm, Personal Injury and Accident Lawyers P.C. has a new pedestrian fatality study which highlights accident statistics and community response. Accidents involving pedestrians resulting in serious injuries or fatalities are on the rise in Philadelphia.

In response to this disturbing trend, The Pearce Law Firm, Personal Injury and Accident Lawyers P.C. commissioned a safety study using public data from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and surveyed input from the Philadelphia community.

According to local pedestrians, construction areas and blocked sidewalks are the biggest problem facing Philadelphia.

The pedestrian safety study aggregates and reports on several data sets including:

* Philadelphia Roads with Most Fatal Pedestrian Accidents
* Philadelphia Pedestrian Fatalities and Serious Injuries by Year
* Survey of Community Threat Perception

In addition to the data compilation, charts and analysis, the study provides an overview of the current laws governing the blocking of sidewalks and Mayor Kenney's initiatives to improve pedestrian safety.

The complete study details and poll results are available at: https://thepearcelawfirm.com/making-philadelphias-pedestrians-safer/

The Pearce Law Firm, Personal Injury and Accident Lawyers P.C. is a comprehensive car accident and personal injury law firm headquartered in Philadelphia.

The Pearce Law Firm, Personal Injury and Accident Lawyers P.C. has a new pedestrian fatality study which highlights accident statistics and community response. Accidents involving pedestrians resulting in serious injuries or fatalities are on the rise in Philadelphia.

Related link: https://thepearcelawfirm.com/

Perkiomen Valley School District in PA Selects Synergy Education Platform

COLLEGEVILLE, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- Perkiomen Valley School District (PVSD) has selected the industry-leading Synergy(R) Education Platform by Edupoint(R) Educational Systems for its K-12 student information management needs. The district's Synergy solution will include Synergy Student Information System, Synergy Online Registration, and Synergy Special Education. PVSD serves over 5,500 students in the Philadelphia region.

With Synergy Education Platform, PVSD will get a comprehensive student data management ecosystem in which the SIS and all core student data management solutions talk to each other by design, sharing data in real time from a single database for a seamless user experience.

District leaders at PVSD became interested in Synergy after attending a demo at a neighboring school district. The SIS selection committee then evaluated Synergy against several other student information systems, involving as many as 60 participants from every stakeholder group. The committee selected Synergy from four finalists after a round of full-day demos.

Key considerations in Perkiomen Valley's selection of Synergy included the platform's overall flexibility, the ease of transition for special education, the robust suite of role-based mobile apps, and the partner relationship the district would have with Edupoint.

"From a technical perspective, a smooth implementation is critical, and the references we spoke to put my mind at ease about working with Edupoint," said Karthik Ganesh, Chief Information Officer at Perkiomen Valley. "Our special education team is pleased because Edupoint will be doing the heavy lifting on moving our documents over. Synergy will also help us improve our scheduling efficiency to recoup a significant amount of time for our scheduling staff, and we'll have the ability to provide real-time information to families through the parent portal."

"Perkiomen Valley School District can be expected to see many improvements with their migration to Synergy," said Bob Weathers, Founder and CEO of Edupoint, "from extensive Google integration in the gradebook to greater overall efficiency and ease of use. We are pleased to have PVSD come on board and look forward to continuing to serve additional districts in Pennsylvania."

Learn more about the Synergy Education Platform at: https://www.edupoint.com/Products/Synergy-Education-Platform

About Edupoint Educational Systems

For over 35 years, the leadership of Edupoint Educational Systems has provided well-designed, technologically advanced student data management systems that empower K-12 stakeholders to improve student achievement. Synergy Education Platform by Edupoint is an industry-leading student data management ecosystem built to fit the way educators already work, with seamlessly integrated student information management, learning management, MTSS, assessment, special education management, and analytics. Synergy is unique among K-12 student data management solutions in providing an array of role-based mobile apps designed to give all stakeholders access to the tools they need when and where they need them. Thousands of schools nationwide choose the Synergy Education Platform to support 4.5 million students in 21 states.

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

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-0430s2p-edupoint-sis-300dpi.jpg

Perkiomen Valley School District (PVSD) has selected the industry-leading Synergy Education Platform by Edupoint(r) Educational Systems for its K-12 student information management needs. The district's Synergy solution will include Synergy Student Information System, Synergy Online Registration, and Synergy Special Education. PVSD serves over 5,500 students in the Philadelphia region.

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

Rittenhouse Appraisals Sees Resilience In Philadelphia Region’s Real Estate Market Despite Covid-19

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- The COVID-19 crisis could create opportunities for the Philadelphia region to thrive as a real estate market going forward, and buttress its reemergence as a center for business, according to an expert at Rittenhouse Appraisals.

The fundamentals that have driven a recent real estate boom, largely remain, said Carlo L. Batts, MAI, principal of the Center City-based firm, which provides market research for institutional and private investors. He said there is a demand for housing and services created by an influx of well-paying jobs in the medical and science fields, and those job sectors tend to remain strong.

Batts cited the West Philadelphia submarket, recently one of the area's hottest, as likely to power through the economic downturn, driven by demand in the multifamily and commercial sectors. There are tracts West Philadelphia that Batts said appear ripe for activity, such as the pocket between Market Street and Walnut Street that is zoned CMX-4, or mixed use. These tracts could attract high-density, high-rise development, he observed.

"The area is incubating into a primary office submarket and further expansion as a medical submarket and the research parks and medical research and science expansion is going to continue," Batts said. "Up until the shutdown, you had a consistent movement of new developments, whether it was the Schuylkill Yards development or out at 38th and Market, that were bringing an influx of new jobs."

Those jobs have largely tended to be medical related or scientific research positions, meaning they offer above average pay. That will fuel a demand for housing and services, which will drive the residential and commercial real estate development, Batts said.

Low interest rates will also impact liquidity, which could mean continued development in the medical research, medical office markets and in the multi-family market. "There is still a housing crisis in Philadelphia and in the region," Batts said. He suggested that, despite the implications of social distancing to slow the spread of the virus, people still want convenience in their lives. "I think it further solidifies the trend for urban living, but in a more integrated housing structure."

Batts predicted that some troubled projects won't be able to survive the disruption. "I think you are going to see some bad projects hit the market or go into foreclosure or banks start taking back more assets," he said. "You are going to see a lot of people think now is the time to dump assets that weren't performing anyway, just to get them off the books."

Batts said his firm will assist clients as they prepare for the post-crisis opportunities. "We service property owners and investors trying to maintain their assets and keep returns coming," he said. "There are a lot of projects in the works. Some will make sense. Some won't. We help clients understand the feasibility of those projects, now, and where there are opportunities to make them fit the current conditions."

About Rittenhouse Appraisals:

Rittenhouse Appraisals is a regional real estate valuation firm located in Center City Philadelphia and operating throughout the Delaware Valley. It has experience and expertise in appraising all forms of commercial real estate: retail, industrial, multi-family, net lease, office, institutional and special use properties. It also works with banks and on troubled assets.

For more information, go to https://rhappraisals.com/ or call: 267-314-8635

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0429s2p-carlo-batts-300dpi.jpg
*Photo caption: Carlo L. Batts, MAI, principal.

MEDIA ONLY CONTACT:
Carlo Batts
267-314-8635
c.batts@rhappraisals.com

The COVID-19 crisis could create opportunities for the Philadelphia region to thrive as a real estate market going forward, and buttress its reemergence as a center for business, according to an expert at Rittenhouse Appraisals.

Related link: https://rhappraisals.com/

The First Tee of Greater Philadelphia Leaders and Achievers Gala Keynote by Doug Pederson, Head Coach of the Philadelphia Eagles

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- The First Tee of Greater Philadelphia hosted its fourth annual Leaders & Achievers Gala at the Philadelphia Country Club on March 4. This event provides critical resources for TFT of Greater Philadelphia to positively impact the lives of over 30,000 young people in the region, and to forward their mission of teaching life skills and core values through the game of golf.

Doug Pederson, Head Coach of the Philadelphia Eagles gave the keynote speech. He talked about how his work and life align with the First Tee Nine Core Values: Honesty, Integrity, Sportsmanship, Respect, Confidence, Responsibility, Perseverance, Courtesy, and Judgement. "I think about what perseverance has meant in my life...you guys have witnessed it with our team," commented Pederson. "It taught me that hard work does pay off."

Over 320 guests attended the event. Guests included current and past First Tee students, Doug and Jeannie Pederson, John Clark NBC10, Mike Quick (First Tee Board Member), Fred Baxter (former NFL player and First Tee coach) and Beasley Reece (broadcaster, NFL player and president of NFL Alumni Association), Mark Peterson (the Executive Director of the Golf Association of Philadelphia) and Mike Bucci (former Major League Baseball player and First Tee Coach).

The First Tee is a youth development organization that introduces the game of golf and its inherent values to young people. They positively impact the lives of kids by providing educational programs that build character, instill life-enhancing values and promote healthy choices through the game of golf.

"An event like this allows us to increase the number of kids we serve each year," commented Bill Hyndman, Executive Director of The First Tee of Greater Philadelphia. "In the last year we went from serving 19,000 kids to 30,000 kids. That can only be done with the kind of support an event like this provides."

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

The First Tee of Greater Philadelphia hosted its fourth annual Leaders & Achievers Gala at the Philadelphia Country Club on March 4. This event provides critical resources for TFT of Greater Philadelphia to positively impact the lives of over 30,000 young people in the region, and to forward their mission of teaching life skills and core values through the game of golf.

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

National Access Corp. Launches Initiative Aimed at Helping the Elderly and Disabled

LANCASTER, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- National Access Corp. (NAC), an access and mobility provider focused on improving the lives of the physically disabled and elderly population, has launched its "Make it Better" - "One at a Time" initiative, which seeks out deserving individuals needing access or mobility related equipment or home modifications.

"The goal of the initiative is to find individuals or families who may not be able to afford some of the more costly equipment or modifications and to provide them for free or at a reduced cost," stated NAC's operations manager, Tory Buffenmyer. "We understand that some of the costs associated with specialized medical equipment, and especially home modifications, can be rather costly and out of range financially for some families. Our goal is to give back to our communities directly by providing life changing access or mobility solutions for free, or at cost to a handful of individuals."

NAC's slogan "founded on the simple principle of helping others" certainly rings true with this new initiative.

"We got into this space as a result of wanting to improve the lives of those facing access or mobility related issues as a result of a disability or aging. One of our founding partners had a personal experience where a family member became suddenly disabled. After spending several months trying to find help for his family member, he decided there was a need not being met and that something had to be done," said NAC's spokesman Darian Epstein.

"We're providing resources for families and individuals who find themselves needing help and answers to some of life's changes, our goal is to be the first place people turn when the need arises" continued Epstein.

NAC's community outreach director, Shannon Taylor, described the initiative as an experiment. "We're going to try this out with a handful of individuals to see how it goes. Our goal is to document a few cases that really outline the need within our communities, and to then garner support from local businesses wanting to make a difference in the lives of others." Taylor continued, "one thing that really surprised me when I got involved with NAC, was the tremendous need for what we do. For every person you see publicly, living with a disability, there at least ten more in the immediate area that you will never see because they live as shut ins - they lack the access or mobility required to make it out and into society. We're planning on changing that."

National Access Corp. is a Pennsylvania corporation with offices in Lancaster and Philadelphia, operating throughout the mid-Atlantic region. NAC specializes in providing straight forward solutions for access and mobility. Individuals needing anything from a wheelchair ramp or a barrier free shower, to a stairlift or scooter can contact NAC for free in-home consultations.

"We handle several lines of stairlifts, wheelchair platform lifts, in home elevators, scooters and scooter carriers, access ramps etc., and can do most any type of modification to residential or commercial buildings in order to make them accessible," said NAC's Buffenmyer.

To learn more about the initiative individuals should contact NAC at (717) 826-9431, or visit the website: http://www.nationalaccesscorp.com/

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1104s2p-nat-access-logo-300dpi.jpg

National Access Corp. (NAC), an access and mobility provider focused on improving the lives of the physically disabled and elderly population, has launched its "Make it Better" - "One at a Time" initiative, which seeks out deserving individuals needing access or mobility related equipment or home modifications.

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

ACCT Philly Hires New Executive Director and Announces Additional Updates at the Shelter

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Animal Care and Control Team of Philadelphia (ACCT Philly) Board of Directors today announced Aurora Velazquez as the new Executive Director of the City's animal shelter. Velazquez will begin her new role on November 4, 2019.

Velazquez comes from the Animal Care Centers of NYC, most recently serving as the organization's Chief Operating Officer. Throughout her tenure, she spearheaded the organization's focus on surrender prevention and community-oriented services. She also played a key role in developing and driving programs which resulted in a 25 percent reduction in intake of cats and dogs since 2014 and huge strides in lifesaving, achieving a placement rate of 92.5 percent in 2018-ACC of NYC's highest ever.

Prior to joining the ACC of NYC in 2011, Velazquez mentored agencies around the country on the operational aspects of establishing high quality, high volume spay/neuter clinics, including staff management, policy development and metrics analysis. She brings more than 15 years of experience in animal sheltering operations including management, operational and leadership expertise.

"ACCT has faced significant challenges for many years. With an intake of more than 18,000 animals annually, a tight budget and aging building, finding the right leader to take ACCT to the next level was a daunting task," said Marsha Perelman, chair of the Search Committee and a member of ACCT's Board of Directors since late 2018. "There are many improvements that are planned for or in progress at ACCT, and I'm thrilled that someone with Aurora's experience and leadership skills will oversee the implementation of them. Having an executive director with Aurora's knowledge and experience is a huge win for the animals, for the organization and for the city."

"I'm tremendously honored to have been selected for such an important role, at such a pivotal time," said Velazquez. "I'm eager to get in there, learn from the ACCT team, and work with the community to help realize all the potential this organization has, so we may better serve the animals and people of Philadelphia."

The organization also announced earlier today the successful completion of a two-day intensive training by national shelter medicine experts aimed at facilitating the implementation of new procedures that will improve shelter operations, reduce the length of stay for its animals, and ensure that animals in its care receive top-level care and compassion. In addition, ACCT recently broke ground on the construction of a new welcome center, funded by a generous grant from the Petco Foundation.

This comes on the heels of the news that the City's Vector Services, currently sharing the West Hunting Park facility, will be relocated and ACCT will be able to utilize an additional 9,000 square feet in the facility in late winter. As part of ongoing improvement, the organization will also replace its outdated kennels and the drainage system in early 2020.

As the Executive Director of ACCT Philly, Velazquez will oversee these improvements to the city's only open admission shelter and will work with life-saving, medical and adoptions staff and community partners to continue to strengthen the organization and help Philadelphia's homeless pets.

Learn more at: http://www.acctphilly.org/

The Animal Care and Control Team of Philadelphia (ACCT Philly) Board of Directors today announced Aurora Velazquez as the new Executive Director of the City's animal shelter. Velazquez will begin her new role on November 4, 2019.

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

Queen and Rook Game Cafe Announces First Location

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- Philly Games Inc. announces its first location of Queen & Rook Game Cafe will be near the corner of 2nd and South Streets, at the site of the former Hikaru restaurant. Philadelphia's newest player is getting ready to make its first move with a late Summer opening. They promise a game library of more than 1,000 new and vintage board games, a retail section, easy to share plates, local drafts and a full liquor license.

Edward Garcia, a founder and the CEO said, "With more than a thousand game options and Gamekeepers to tailor the experience to your group, the fun is almost guaranteed. Philadelphia needs more options for family-friendly entertainment. It needs more options for get-togethers and dates that don't involve just eating or drinking."

Queen & Rook Game Cafe will do all those things. They will offer a place for families to have children's parties and meals where the kids aren't begging for a smartphone.

Except for special events, kids under 12 will not be charged the playing fee. Queen & Rook will also make sure to offer kid's meals and several non-alcoholic cocktails and drinks. At the same time Queen and Rook will also offer a new and different kind of date place or hang out spot, nostalgic and yet new. Queen and Rook will also have a reservable private room for team building, corporate events, parties, community meetings or gaming groups.

In terms of food, Queen & Rook Game Cafe will offer a healthier, more future-oriented, mainly plant-based menu. They will serve the small plates and appetizers people love to snack like nachos, mozzarella sticks, and french fries; but will also offer vegan sliders, a vegan cheese plate, deluxe salads, and many gluten-free options.

Jeannie Wong, a founder and a vegetarian for more than 25 years said, "The future is happening now with meat alternatives and healthier, less environmentally damaging food and drink. We think people want something really delicious without having to feel bad about what or where they eat. It's about a commitment to have plant-based options, local sourcing, allergen-friendly foods, globally-inspired offerings, and foods with a smaller carbon footprint."

Queen & Rook Game Cafe will be open 7 days a week from 11am to Midnight Sunday through Thursday, and 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. Weekend brunch plans are in the works as well, plus a few surprises in the fall.

Follow them on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter: @queenrookcafe

About Queen and Rook Game Cafe:
Address: 607 South 2nd Street, Philadelphia PA 19147
Opening Date: Late Summer 2019
Hours: Sunday through Thursday 11am to Midnight, Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Learn more: http://queenandrookcafe.com/

Philly Games Inc. announces its first location of Queen & Rook Game Cafe will be near the corner of 2nd and South Streets, at the site of the former Hikaru restaurant. Philadelphia's newest player is getting ready to make its first move with a late Summer opening. They promise a game library of more than 1,000 new and vintage board games, a retail section, easy to share plates, local drafts and a full liquor license.

Related link: http://queenandrookcafe.com/

Veteran Author Daralyse Lyons Launches The Transformational Storyteller Podcast

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- In the midst of a thriving writing career, Daralyse Lyons, author of over 20 books, has just embarked on a new journey. On "The Transformational Storyteller" podcast, Daralyse takes the listener into the lives and minds of real people whose stories have the power to captivate and motivate.

"History is full of examples of storytellers making an impact. My hope is to inspire listeners and viewers by exposing them to the real-life experiences of authors, actors, comedians, thought-leaders, spiritual advisors, celebrities, and more," Lyons says. "The stories run the gamut from comedic to tragic, superficial to life-altering, and as you listen and/or watch, you'll find yourself wanting to create your own narratives and improve your life."

"My idea was to create a simple podcast. I'm an avid podcast listener and I wanted to create something in that space. Then, I thought, 'Why have just audio when you can have video too?' So, this particular podcast is also filmed. People can watch or listen, and I love that! Nothing beats a live interview and being able to talk to guests in the studio makes for genuine conversations and, I hope, leads to more connected and engaging stories."

Lyons knows firsthand the transformational power of stories. After eighteen long-term inpatient hospitalizations for eating disorder treatment, Daralyse found healing from anorexia and bulimia by recovering her passion for creativity.

Since then, she has become an author, yogi, speaker, coach, actress, and comedian. She regularly tells her story on podcasts, television, and in print and online media outlets. Daralyse has spoken numerous times at the Renfrew Center, the nation's first residential treatment center and a world-renowned leader in eating disorder intervention. Understanding how just one person's story can change lives has fueled her desire to make sure more stories can be heard.

The audio version of Daralyse Lyons' podcast can be found on iTunes, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Play, PocketCasts and all other major podcasting platforms. The video version can be found on YouTube (First Episode Video: https://youtu.be/Wua5sDXPqhA).

Full information and links can also be found her website at https://www.daralyselyons.com/.

To be a guest on the Transformational Storyteller Podcast, visit https://www.daralyselyons.com/podcast. All sponsor inquiries can be sent to daralyse@daralyselyons.com.

VIDEO:
https://youtu.be/Wua5sDXPqhA

In the midst of a thriving writing career, Daralyse Lyons, author of over 20 books, has just embarked on a new journey. On "The Transformational Storyteller" podcast, Daralyse takes the listener into the lives and minds of real people whose stories have the power to captivate and motivate.

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

Multi-Flow Industries, LLC is pleased to announce the acquisition of Draft Beer Services of Atlanta, Georgia

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- Following the acquisition of Lenox Martell (Boston) in 2017, Total Systems Control and Jordan's Draft Services (Pittsburgh) and Main Street Beverage (Philadelphia) in 2018 and now Draft Beer Services of Atlanta, Multi-Flow is able to offer a full range of beverage dispensing and service solutions to its customers in seven new markets.

These include: customized draft beer installations, liquor control systems, specialty beer line cleaning, soda and juice dispensing systems and all of the quality soda & juice products required to run these systems.

Edward Merry, President and COO of Multi-Flow Industries states that, "Draft Beer Services is a well-established beverage service company focusing on the draft beer industry, doing business in Georgia, North Carolina, Alabama and Tennessee, with a systematic beer line cleaning program and customized draft beer and liquor control system installations. With Multi-Flow as the independent leader in bag-in-the-box soda-syrup and juice production and DBS as the distinct Southeast leader in beer system installation and service; it is a most-perfect marriage."

He adds, "We will be sharing expertise in both directions and we will be incrementally rolling out the DBS products and services in Multi-Flow's 15-operating divisions and offering Multi-Flow's premium juice and soda programs to DBS's extensive customer base."

This dynamic combination will give Multi-Flow a significantly broader geographical reach and will allow Multi-Flow to pursue a much more diverse and larger customer base. In addition, we are continuing to search for other strategic acquisitions that will round out our offerings and allow us to maximize our services and growth.

About Multi-Flow Industries:

Multi-Flow Industries has a dynamic 85-year history of producing high-quality, diverse beverage products, providing state of the art dispensing systems and delivering exceptional customer and associate care. In addition to being a full service fountain beverage company, we also offer private labeling and contract manufacturing. Our customer base would include any away-from-home eating establishment including restaurants, bars, caterers, sports venues, theme parks, convenience stores, and institutional customers like hospitals, nursing homes, correctional facilities and military establishments.

The company's product lines include a wide array of juices, fortified waters, sodas, cane-sugar sodas, energy drinks, and thickened water, bar mixes, iced tea, lemonade and coffee. We have over 250 quality items to serve our customers with; including national brands. We service our customers through distributors and through our growing network of 15-service centers east of the Mississippi. Multi-Flow Industries is owned by a group of private investors and managed by Falconhead Capital of New York City.

Learn more at: http://multiflow.net/

For additional information, please contact Ed Merry at Edward.Merry@multiflow.net.

Following the acquisition of Lenox Martell (Boston) in 2017, Total Systems Control and Jordan's Draft Services (Pittsburgh) and Main Street Beverage (Philadelphia) in 2018 and now Draft Beer Services of Atlanta, Multi-Flow is able to offer a full range of beverage dispensing and service solutions to its customers in seven new markets.

Related link: http://multiflow.net/

Dr. Love’s Technology Cracks Love Code Just in Time for Valentine’s Day

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- Edward Johnson aka Dr. Love - that's Dr. the Real Deal Love - founder of Love University, and author of the workbook, "3 Things Every Woman Needs to Know about a Man" (ISBN: 978-1928681526) is quickly gaining credibility in the relationship industry and rapidly becoming one of the premier authorities on dating, love and romance.

What started out as a career in cosmetology nearly 40 years ago has catapulted into a career that now creates true and lasting love connections.

"I opened my first hair salon in 1981," he says. "I worked with women to create a color and style that was all their own. Women would talk to me, not just about their hair, but about their lives. They'd open up to me and then wonder why they were telling me all these intimate details. It was because they were comfortable and I earned their trust."

It was these invaluable conversations that set the stage for the creation of Love University. For the past eight years, Johnson has been fine-tuning the curriculum at Love University to ensure that women experience transformation. He works to build value, confidence, courage and boost self-esteem.

"It's true. I've cracked the love code," Johnson says. "I'm one of the first to use technology that combines the science of love, the chemistry of passion and the power of persuasion."

When women attend Love University, they're given access to what Johnson calls MAOS - Most Advanced Operating System - in love and romance. They'll learn about things like "the Velocity Factor" which touches on three key aspects of a relationship: lust, attraction and attachment. He'll show women how to build desire and transmute a behavior that they want to elicit in a man. He reveals how women need to communicate in a man's code rather than his conduct.

"Through these workshops, I also hope to rescue men by empowering women," he says. "I want to help create successful love relationships and loving marriages."

In addition to hands-on workshops that include a full curriculum and a sharing of one-on-one case studies, Johnson has also given lectures and seminars at schools, community organizations and church groups. He continues to seek new outlets.

"My years of research and experience have uncovered that men have a code that women have to access," he says. "I want to share this message."

Sign up for a free love tour and to learn more here: http://drtherealdeallove.com/

VIDEO (YouTube):
https://youtu.be/StuESVB-Nlo

Edward Johnson aka Dr. Love - that's Dr. the Real Deal Love - founder of Love University, and author of the workbook, "3 Things Every Woman Needs to Know about a Man" (ISBN: 978-1928681526) is quickly gaining credibility in the relationship industry and rapidly becoming one of the premier authorities on dating, love and romance.

Related link: http://drtherealdeallove.com/

Leading Companies to Support C Diff Foundation 6th Annual International C.diff. Conference and Health EXPO, Nov. 8-9, Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- The C Diff Foundation is honored to welcome leading companies to the 6th Annual International "C.diff. Awareness Conference and Health EXPO," as they come together to make a global difference. These companies are dedicated to the prevention, diagnostics, treatments, environmental safety products and services focused on C.difficile infections and Healthcare-associated infections and whose role serves great importance in the C.diff. community.

The conference takes place on November 8 and 9, 2018 at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Philadelphia Airport Hotel, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

"We at Synthetic Biologics are thrilled to partner with the C Diff Foundation in their fight to increase research partnerships, education and advocacy of awareness of Clostridium difficile Infection," said Deb Mathews, PharmD, Vice President, Medical Affairs of Synthetic Biologics. "This conference consistently brings the highest caliber of speakers, rigorously sound clinical data, an impassionate approach and an unyielding commitment in the fight against the incredible unmet medical needs for patients inflicted with and affected by Clostridium difficile Infection."

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Clostridium difficile infection "has become the most common microbial cause of healthcare-associated infections in U.S. hospitals and costs up to $4.8 billion each year in excess health care costs for acute care facilities alone." Statistics provided by the CDC suggest that C. difficile cause nearly 500,000 infections in patients in the U.S. annually and 14,000 deaths a year directly related to this infection.

The 6th Annual International C. diff. Conference & Health EXPO brings together C. diff survivors, physicians, researchers and industry members focused on reducing the major burden of C. difficile infection on global healthcare systems.

"We're privileged to be able to present alongside distinguished C. difficile infection experts and to share with the community our progress on advancing our Phase 3-ready precision antibiotic ridinilazole as a potential new front-line treatment option for patients with C. difficile infection," said Dr. David Roblin, President of R&D of Summit Therapeutics.

With upmost appreciation we thank the following Sponsors for their continued support and partnering with the C Diff Foundation promoting C. diff. awareness worldwide:
- Diamond: Synthetic Biologics.
- Gold: Clorox Healthcare, Seres Therapeutics, ROCHE, Rebiotix, Pfizer.
- Silver: CutisPharma, TechLab, Tru-D Smart UVC, Summit Therapeutics.
- Bronze: Honey Bee Handiworks, Qmetis, Seal Shield, Trinity Guardion, Steriliz RD Rapid UVC, Safety Net America, SporeGen.
- Luncheon: Finch Therapeutics, Synexsis.
- A/V - DaVolterra.

This conference is supported through an educational grant from Sanofi Pasteur US. This activity has been supported by an independent patient advocacy grant from Merck & Co., Inc.

About The C Diff Foundation:

The C Diff Foundation, a 501(c)(3) established 2012, comprised of 100% volunteering professionals dedicated at supporting public health through education and advocating for C. difficile infection (CDI) prevention, treatments, clinical trials, environmental safety, and support worldwide. https://cdifffoundation.org/.

Follow C Diff Foundation on Facebook, Instagram.

Twitter @cdiffFoundation #Cdiff2018

The C Diff Foundation is honored to welcome leading companies to the 6th Annual International "C.diff. Awareness Conference and Health EXPO," as they come together to make a global difference. These companies are dedicated to the prevention, diagnostics, treatments, environmental safety products and services focused on C.difficile infections and Healthcare-associated infections and whose role serves great importance in the C.diff. community.

Related link: https://cdifffoundation.org/

New Book, ‘CONFESSIONS OF 400 MEN: True Revelations of Lust, Fidelity, Feelings and Fantasy’

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- Author Heidi Doheny Jay will debut her new book, "Confessions of 400 Men: True Revelations of Lust, Fidelity, Feelings & Fantasy" (ISBN: 978-1543925968) at Philly Art Collective: 253 N. 3rd Street Philadelphia, PA 19106 on Thursday, November 15, 2018 from 6-9 p.m. Press engagement is open from 5-6 p.m. Members of the press will receive a free copy of the book.

For "Confessions of 400 Men," Ms. Doheny Jay spent two and half years interviewing men from all ages and walks of life asking them to divulge their innermost secrets about the women they've loved. She pulled back the curtain on the untold side of the relationship story- his side.

She heard everything - lifelong secrets, funny snafus, lovers that got away and the real reason men long for intimacy. She discovered how common it is for men to feel lonely and what actually drives them to be unfaithful. She learned why men work so hard at their careers and not so much, seemingly, at their personal relationships.

"We miss the girlfriend we married," said Chris, a 59 year old married Caucasian professor from Delaware.

"Men like to fix things, that's how we show you that we care. Women need to pay more attention to this," said Trent, a 46 year old single African American social worker from Maine.

"The guy who actually wants to be in a relationship is worried that the perfect woman will come along and he won't be ready," said Steve, a 48 year old divorced African American transportation owner from the Midwest.

At a time when men are thought to be coldhearted and at best ruthless creatures, "Confessions of 400 Men" reveals their hidden side.

"This book exposes the side of men that's not talked about or shown to the world. When men feel safe and believe they won't be judged, they'll allow themselves to be seen by others, but few are ever given that opportunity," says Doheny Jay.

The author hopes to inspire men to feel more comfortable discussing their feelings and to help women better understand why men act the way they do.

"I set out to understand men better. I had originally intended to write a small eBook and interview about 25 men, but I quickly discovered that when you merely listen to men without judgment or criticism, they'll share everything with you," Doheny Jay adds.

"Men wanted to talk, so I kept listening -- but after 400 interviews I knew I had more than enough to convince the world that men need to be heard just as much as women do. I truly hope to shift the paradigm and allow men the same luxury women have had for years, to freely express their feelings."

Learn more about the book at: https://www.confessionsof400men.com/.

About The Author:

Heidi Doheny Jay was born and raised outside of Philadelphia, Pa. She began her life as an aspiring dancer but quickly realized that she lacked enough talent to make it to the big stage. She turned to Pharmaceutical sales as a career and has spent the past 15 years in the industry. She discovered her affinity for writing while living in upstate New York when she accidentally signed up for a creative writing class that took place in the basement of a coffee shop.

She is an author, blogger and published columnist who explores the mysteries of life, relationships and what makes men and women tick. She is based out of Philadelphia. When she's not writing, she enjoys taking ballet classes, playing the piano and adoring her rescued blue nose pit bull, Lola Falana. She has a degree in Psychology and holds a Master's degree from Syracuse University.

"Confessions of 400 Men" is available at Amazon.com or anywhere books are sold.

For speaking engagements and interviews contact Heidi@heiditheauthor.com, https://www.heiditheauthor.com/ or follow her @heiditheauthor everywhere on social media.

Book Details:
"Confessions of 400 Men: True Revelations of Lust, Fidelity, Feelings & Fantasy"
October 2018 - Non-Fiction
$14.95 Print (ISBN: 978-1543925968)
$7.99 eBook (ISBN: 978-1543925975)
BookBaby Publishing.

* Image link for media: Send2Press.com/300dpi/18-1023s2p-confessions-300dpi.jpg

VIDEO (YouTube):
https://youtu.be/TpZOJr1BFhM

Author Heidi Doheny Jay will debut her new book, "Confessions of 400 Men: True Revelations of Lust, Fidelity, Feelings & Fantasy" (ISBN: 978-1543925968) at Philly Art Collective: 253 N. 3rd Street Philadelphia, PA 19106 on Thursday, November 15, 2018 from 6-9 p.m. Press engagement is open from 5-6 p.m. Members of the press will receive a free copy of the book.

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

6th Annual International C.diff. Conference and Health EXPO in Philadelphia PA November 8-9

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- The C Diff Foundation is honored to welcome 20+ leading topic experts joined by Dale Gerding, MD, FACP, FIDSA, Professor of Medicine at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine in Maywood, Illinois and Research Physician at the Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital and Mark Wilcox,B Med Sci, BM, BS, MD, FRCPath-, Head of Microbiology and Academic Lead of Pathology at the Leeds Teaching Hospitals (LTHT), Professor of Medical Microbiology at the University of Leeds, and Lead on Clostridium difficile for Public Health England (PHE).

Dale Gerding, MD, FACP, FIDSA and Mark Wilcox, B Med Sci, BM ,BS, MD, FRCPath- will be this year's Conference Chairs of the upcoming 6th Annual International "C.diff. Awareness Conference and Health EXPO," taking place on November 8 and 9, 2018 at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Philadelphia Airport - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Dale Gerding, MD, FACP, FIDSA and Mark Wilcox,B Med Sci, BM, BS, MD, FRCPath- join the internationally recognized experts in health care, academic, and industry leaders to discuss the burden of Clostridium difficile infections (C.difficile, C.diff., CDI) Prevention, Treatments, Diagnostics, Research, Clinical Trials, with Microbiome Research, Infection Prevention, Sepsis Prevention, Environmental Safety, Fecal Microbiota Restoration, Antibiotic Stewardship, Scientific Poster Presentations and more.

To learn more about this extraordinary conference, agenda and guest speakers: https://cdifffoundation.org/2018-guest-speakers/

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Clostridium difficile infection (C. difficile) "has become the most common microbial cause of healthcare-associated infections in U.S. hospitals and costs up to $4.8 billion each year in excess health care costs for acute care facilities alone." Statistics provided by the CDC suggest that C. difficile cause nearly 500,000 infections in patients in the U.S. annually. In one study noted by the CDC, among infected patients, nearly 29,000 died within 30 days of being diagnosed, and more than half of those deaths (15,000) were directly attributable to a C. difficile infection.

All attendees will have the highest levels of peer networking and learning opportunity at the International C.diff. Awareness Conference and Health EXPO. The conference program builds in time for face-to-face interaction between attending executives, corporate representatives and industry experts exhibiting in the health expo.

Attendee Barley Chironda, Infection Control Specialist, said about the 2017 conference, "I have attended all of the C Diff Foundation Conferences and I am always in awe at the wealth of new information that is presented at each conference. As an Infection Control Specialist, and a person who deals with Healthcare Infections, I feel this conference allows great knowledge sharing and networking."

With upmost appreciation we thank the following Exhibiting Sponsors for their continued support and partnering with the C Diff Foundation in promoting C. diff. Awareness worldwide:
- Diamond: Synthetic Biologics.
- Gold: Clorox Healthcare, Seres Therapeutics, ROCHE, Rebiotix, Pfizer.
- Silver: Mr. & Mrs. Angelo Ortiz.
- Bronze: Honey Bee Handiworks, Trinity Guardion, Steriliz, Safety Net America, SporeGen.

This conference is supported through an educational grant from Sanofi Pasteur US.

Visit https://cdifffoundation.org for more information. Contact Angelo Ortiz for registration, exhibiting/sponsor opportunities, and media partnerships: angelo.ortiz@cdifffoundation.org or Mobile (919) 201-1512.

About The C Diff Foundation:

The C Diff Foundation, a 501(c)(3) established 2012, comprised of 100% volunteering professionals dedicated at supporting public health through education and advocating for C. difficile infection (CDI) prevention, treatments, environmental safety, and support worldwide. Listen to "C.diff. Spores and More" Tuesday's at 1 p.m. ET (www.cdiffradio.com), sponsored by Clorox Healthcare, providing leading up-to-date information on topics that are in align with their mission.

Follow C Diff Foundation on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. Twitter @cdiffFoundation #Cdiff2018

The C Diff Foundation is honored to welcome 20+ leading topic experts joined by Dale Gerding, MD, FACP, FIDSA, Professor of Medicine at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine in Maywood, Illinois and Research Physician at the Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital and Mark Wilcox, B Med Sci, BM, BS, MD, FRCPath-, Head of Microbiology and Academic Lead of Pathology at the Leeds Teaching Hospitals (LTHT).

Related link: https://cdifffoundation.org/

Philadelphia Commercial Capital Advisory CEO Discusses the Current State of the Commercial and Multifamily Finance Market

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- Rittenhouse Capital Advisors (RCA) is a commercial real estate finance advisor with over 60 years of combined banking experience. Currently in its fourth year of operation, Rittenhouse Capital has increased its loan production volume by a minimum of 30 percent year over year by delivering creative commercial financing solutions for their real estate investor clients.

Rittenhouse Capital CEO George Johnson believes that market conditions may be about to change and that now is the best time to take advantage of historically low interest rates.

"We are late in the game here," Johnson says. "Interest rates are still very favorable to borrowers, but we don't know how much longer that will last. The Fed is unwinding their quantitative easing, which will most definitely create upward pressure on treasury rates given the shift in that supply-demand fundamental. GDP growth was a very healthy 3.3 percent in the 3rd quarter, the fastest rate in 3 years, so inflationary pressure will start to build there as well.

"The new Tax Reform package will likely bring some economic stimulus with further inflationary pressure, so there is a lot of factors in play, all pointing to higher interest rates in the near term. When that happens, lenders may take a more conservative approach to underwriting, making it more difficult to obtain the level of loan proceeds real estate investors are looking for."

Many commercial and multifamily property owners would like to capitalize on today's low interest rates, but they have existing loans that do not mature for a while, and they do not want to pay a significant pre-payment penalty to get out of these loans.

"A lot of commercial borrowers are not aware of some of the financing options that are available out there," Johnson continues. "For example, we have a great balance sheet product where a borrower can lock in their interest rate today for a period of up to 12 months while they burn-off any remaining prepayment penalty. This approach saves our clients a substantial amount of money as they avoid paying their prepayment penalty while also taking interest rate risk off the table."

E-commerce Driving a Shift in Demand toward Multi-Unit Industrial Properties:

Another factor that is currently impacting the commercial lending market is E-commerce. Companies like Amazon and Wayfair are driving demand for warehousing space. And with thousands of other companies getting in on the Ecommerce craze, multi-unit industrial properties are at a premium.

"Beginning shortly after the 'great recession,' multi-family properties (e.g., apartment buildings) were very popular with buyers and the lending community, but this segment has peaked or is approaching its peak in most major markets. Supply has caught up to demand and lenders are becoming a bit more cautious.

"It is a far different story with multi-unit industrial properties. More and more online retailers need warehouse space to store their products, and demand is far outpacing supply in this sector. Lenders love these properties because they are usually at full occupancy, rents are continually going up, and cashflow is strong. For this reason, there are plenty of very competitive financing options for this asset type."

Healthcare Real Estate in Demand with Rapidly Aging Population:

In 1950, the population aged 65 and older represented 8.1 percent (or 13 million) out of the total U.S. population of 158 million. That percentage is projected to reach 13 percent (or 46 million) out of 355 million by 2030. This shift will place great demands on the nation's health-care system and spur considerable growth in the real estate segment of the healthcare industry.

This trend in the healthcare industry is already beginning to pick up steam now with the larger hospital systems building out or leasing real estate facilities focused on delivering specialized needs such as surgery centers, urgent care, and orthopedics, just to name a few.

Similar to the industrial-distribution space, the supply-demand fundamentals have swung heavily on the demand side in healthcare and the numbers would seem to indicate a good amount of runway in the current direction. As such, expect the lending community to compete aggressively to provide funding on healthcare projects as described above and also including senior living, assisted living, specialty care (nursing homes) and memory care, going forward.

Recent Rittenhouse Capital Transactions:

Rittenhouse has helped commercial property owners with purchases and refinances across a wide range of sectors. Here is a sampling of their recent transactions:
* Apartment Building Refinance: RCA arranged a $9,100,000 refinance for a 150-unit apartment building in Philadelphia. RCA delivered the lowest fixed rate in the market along with a non-recourse structure and capped transaction costs.
* Office Building Acquisition: RCA arranged a $54,250,000 acquisition loan for a 356,000 square-foot class "A" office building known as the Great Valley Commerce Center. Located in Malvern, Pa. this building is fully leased to credit tenants. The debt assignment for this property was highly sought-after and competitive. RCA was awarded the assignment by delivering maximum leverage and a strong long-term fixed rate.
* Single Tenant, Net Leased Retail Acquisition: RCA arranged a $4,000,000 acquisition loan for a commercial parcel that is being leased long-term by Royal Farms, a fresh food and gas station chain based in the Northeast. RCA delivered the most competitive rate amongst three other options the client was considering and the loan was closed in only 25 days in accordance with the borrowers agreement of sale.
* Mixed-Use Building Acquisition: RCA arranged a $3,000,000 acquisition loan for a mixed-use (apartment/commercial) building. The property has 9 apartments and 1 commercial unit (a 7-Eleven store). RCA delivered maximum leverage, 3 years of interest only, capped transaction costs and a non-recourse structure for their client.

"We have the expertise and lender relationships to deliver favorable financing for the full range of commercial real estate assets anywhere in the country."

For more information, go to https://www.rittenhousecapital.com/

About Rittenhouse Capital Advisors:

Rittenhouse Capital Advisors (RCA) is a comprehensive debt, equity, and advisory solutions provider specializing in placing debt and equity (either for acquisitions or refinances) for Rittenhouse Realty's clients and other commercial borrowers. RCA understands the complexities of the commercial real estate market, and that no two assets are exactly alike. As such, they take the time to thoroughly understand their clients' needs and goals, so they can negotiate and arrange the financing structure that works best for them. Leveraging its extensive network of lender relationships developed over the teams combined 60 years in the banking industry, RCA is able to speak "banker to banker" with the ultimate funding source, allowing them to deliver the most competitive terms in an efficient and professional manner.

Media Contact:
George Johnson - CEO
Rittenhouse Capital Advisors
107 S. 2nd Street 4th Floor
Philadelphia, Pa 19106

Phone: 215-989-4443
Email: George@rittenhousecapital.com
www.rittenhousecapital.com

Rittenhouse Capital Advisors is a commercial real estate finance advisor with over 60 years of combined banking experience. Currently in its fourth year of operation, Rittenhouse Capital has increased its loan production volume by a minimum of 30 percent year over year by delivering creative commercial financing solutions for their real estate investor clients.

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

A Shift in Philly Suburbs Real Estate: Independent Brokerages on the Rise Over Franchises

EXTON, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- Springer Realty Group is an up-and-coming independent brokerage that serves clients throughout Pennsylvania. This year alone, they have grown by nearly 50-percent, and they recently opened their fourth office in Blue Bell. Top Chester County PA Realtor Don Dowd is one of the agents that has joined SRG during the past year.

Dowd had been a RE/MAX agent for several years, and had consistently ranked in the top 5 out of over 3,400 agents in the Pennsylvania and Delaware regions. When he left RE/MAX at the end of 2016, he was third in sales overall. With this type of success, many in the business wondered why he would leave an established franchise brand for an independent.

"When I made the move to SRG, I was skeptical," Dowd says. "But I interviewed many other independent agents before I made the switch, and I found that it didn't have any impact at all on their business. At the end of the day, no matter what brokerage you're with, your listings still go from the MLS to the Internet Data Exchange (IDX), meaning they will end up on all the major real estate websites, like Realtor.com, Trulia and Zillow, and hundreds of other sites where the buyers are searching."

Dowd has consistently remained one of the top selling agents in the region because he employs "out of the box" marketing methods both online and offline. And he says the move from franchise to independent has freed up more money to invest in marketing, allowing him to better serve his clients.

"My move over to SRG has reduced my operating costs by two-thirds, saving me more than $10,000 per year," Dowd continues. "This gives me more money to invest in marketing, which gives my clients greater exposure and helps ensure a more timely and successful transaction. Our industry is shifting increasingly from brick and mortar to online, and these days, buyers aren't coming to your office unless it's for a settlement. Back in the 70s and 80s, it might have made sense to have a large, expensive office on the corner of Main St and 1st Ave, but today, this is wasted overhead that should be redirected into your marketing budget."

Dowd also likes the flexibility of the independent brokerage business model, which he says can work for all types of agents.

"SRG's business model is perfect for the established agent who wants to pay only $295 per month and keep 100-percent of the commission earned. But it's also perfect for the agent who is just starting out and can choose the option to pay no monthly fees, $595 per transaction, and keep 100-percent of the commission. Every 6 months, the agent has the option to switch plans based on their current business needs. This plan is better than opening your own brokerage, and it works well because of a large volume of agents."

The rapid growth of Springer Realty Group is not an aberration. In late 2015, Inman reported a major shift from franchises toward independent brokerages within the real estate industry. In fact, the majority of real estate agents in the U.S. (roughly 55-percent) are now with independent brokerages. Two of the major reasons cited in the report were local control of branding, and technology that allows independents to develop unique and profitable business models that can quickly adapt to local market conditions.

"Our agents have the freedom to grow their businesses the way they want, and they are given the flexibility to adapt in real time to conditions on the ground," says Dave Springer, owner of Springer Realty Group. "Our fees are also far lower than the national brands, which keeps our agents' operating costs reasonable, allowing them to put more of their hard-earned dollars into marketing."

With technology continually evolving and our society becoming increasingly digital, the trend toward independent brokerages looks like it is here to stay. And with more real estate agents embracing this model, companies like SRG are likely to experience exponential growth for the foreseeable future.

About Springer Realty Group:
Springer Realty Group is a locally-owned, non-franchise brokerage that was founded in 2009. SRG has experienced strong growth since its founding, and this year they have grown by nearly 50-percent. SRG runs a nimble and streamlined operation leveraging the most advanced technology and marketing methods to maintain a competitive edge within the marketplace. They have top area agents, an in-house design team, and social media experts who work synergistically to deliver optimal results for clients.

Contact:
Dave Springer
Springer Realty Group
740 Springdale Dr., Suite 100
Exton, PA 19341
Mobile: 610-202-2859
Office: 484-498-4000
dspringer@springerrealtygroup.com
http://www.springerrealtygroup.com

About Don Dowd Top Realtor Exton PA:
Don Dowd is a real estate agent for Springer Realty Group and member of the prestigious National Association of Realtors. Don has been in sales for almost his entire adult life and began his career in real estate at age 22. From 2010 through 2016, Don was consistently one of the top-ranked RE/MAX agents in the Philadelphia and Delaware areas. In 2017, he joined SRG and is currently on pace to well exceed his sales totals from any of the previous years.

Contact:
Don Dowd
740 Springdale Dr., Suite 100
Exton, PA 19341
Mobile: 610-497-2000
Office: 484-498-4000
DonDowd72@yahoo.com
http://www.dondowdhomes.com/

Springer Realty Group is an up-and-coming independent brokerage that serves clients throughout Pennsylvania. This year alone, they have grown by nearly 50-percent, and they recently opened their fourth office in Blue Bell. Top Chester County PA Realtor Don Dowd is one of the agents that has joined SRG during the past year.

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