All posts by imreal

Health: Abortion

Federal Enforcement Homeland Security Foundation Announces New CEO

Leave a comment


“The mission of my life changed that day,” said Montanaro. “Amid the tragedy, it meant the world to know that FEHSF didn’t just show up, they truly cared about my family. The organization showcases the best in humanity; leading it isn’t work for me, it’s a labor of love.”

FEHSF’s role as the ‘Financial First Responder’ extends to the families of Federal Agents and Officers from agencies including the ATF, CBP, DEA, FBI, IRS, and Secret Service. FESHSF has disbursed hundreds of financial grants over the organization’s more than 20-year history, with total assistance exceeding $4 million.

“William embodies the reason we exist: to be a light in the darkness for families enduring unimaginable pain, and to support those who sacrifice every day to keep our nation safe,” said FEHSF Honorary Chairman Tom Ridge, who served as a Congressman, Governor of Pennsylvania, and the inaugural Secretary of The Department of Homeland Security. “He is uniquely positioned to ensure that we have their backs, just as they have ours.”

In 2024, FEHSF aims to increase its grants for line-of-duty deaths to $25,000 per family, as well as to establish a scholarship fund for the children of fallen Agents and Officers. For more information and to donate, please visit https://www.fehsf.org/.

About FEHSF
The Federal Enforcement Homeland Security Foundation is a non-profit humanitarian, apolitical and patriotic 501(c)(3) corporation, formed as a private/public partnership of concerned business leaders and former and current high-ranking Federal Law Enforcement officials. FEHSF’s mission is to provide emergency funding to the Federal Law Enforcement Community within 24-48 hours of notification. FEHSF provides financial support to families of Agents and Officers who are seriously injured or killed in the line of duty protecting the nation’s citizens or enforcing our laws. Additionally, FEHSF supports those Agents or Agents’ families during times of personal difficulties, tragedies, or financial hardship.

Media Contact

Ariel Grossman, The Federal Enforcement Homeland Security Foundation, 561-703-4278, [email protected], https://www.fehsf.org/

SOURCE The Federal Enforcement Homeland Security Foundation

Society: Social Services

Triage Cancer® Launches Triage Health Program to Provide Free Education on the Legal and Practical Issues of a Major Medical Diagnosis

Leave a comment


“Over the years, we have developed educational events, materials, and resources for the cancer community, but we know that everyone could benefit from this information,” said Joanna Doran, CEO of Triage Cancer. “Our vision was to establish a platform accessible to all and the timing of this program’s launch is extremely helpful with so many in the middle of Open Enrollment.”

Triage Health also has useful information for everyone to better understand their insurance options and how to access quality health care, which can help people get access to prevention, screening, testing, and other early detection options. Research has demonstrated that people with adequate health insurance coverage are more likely to access preventative and early detection services.

“Our experience with Triage Cancer has highlighted the urgent need for a better-informed general public when it comes to financial complexities of navigating the health care system, and Triage Health was built to serve as a vital resource for those seeking support. Expanding beyond our initial mission of serving cancer patients and their families, our program, Triage Health, translates complex and intimidating issues into easy-to-understand content,” added Doran.

Acknowledging that people learn in different ways, information is available in a variety of different formats, such as Quick Guides, Checklists, and videos. Materials and resources are also available for specific populations, such as seniors, young adults, veterans, and others.

For more information on Triage Health, please visit www.triagehealth.org.

Media Contact

Joanna Doran, Triage Cancer, 1 310-489-0856, [email protected]

SOURCE Triage Cancer

Health: Abortion

Gilbane Building Company Earns Top Score in Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s 2023-2024 Corporate Equality Index (CEI)

Leave a comment


The results of the 2023-2024 CEI showcase how companies are promoting LGBTQ+-friendly workplace policies. The first year of the CEI included 319 participants, and the 2023-2024 CEI now includes 1,384 participants, further demonstrating the tremendous trajectory of the CEI. A record-breaking 1,340 businesses have non-discrimination protections specific to gender identity, up from just 17 in 2002. These critical non-discrimination protections cover 21 million employees in the U.S. and around the globe. Gilbane’s efforts in satisfying all the CEI’s criteria earned a score of 100 and the designation as recipient of the Equality 100 Award: Leader in LGBTQ+ Workplace Inclusion.

“Gilbane has a robust employee resource group (ERG) program and we’re proud of their work to support an inclusive culture,” said Kavon Archie, Senior Inclusion Manager, Gilbane Building Company. “Our PRIDE ERG is a trusted resource supporting LGBTQIA causes and matters both within Gilbane and throughout the industry. We applaud PRIDE and all of our ERGs for their commitment to enhancing career and personal development and making a difference in building a sense of belonging across our organization.”

The CEI rates companies on detailed criteria falling under four central pillars:

  • Non-discrimination policies across business entities
  • Equitable benefits for LGBTQ+ workers and their families
  • Supporting an inclusive culture
  • Corporate social responsibility

“For well over two decades, businesses have played an important role in furthering LGBTQ+ equality by centering employee needs and voices when it comes to workplace inclusion. While there is much more work to be done, year-over-year growth in CEI participation is evidence of a business community that recognizes the responsibility and value in upholding equity and inclusion,” said RaShawn “Shawnie” Hawkins, Human Rights Campaign Sr Director of Workplace Equality. “Our goal at the Human Rights Campaign Foundation is to work in a spirit of partnership with companies, providing educational resources and leading benchmarking, and collaborating on ways for businesses to support the LGBTQ+ community at a time when we face unprecedented legislative attacks, heightened anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and physical violence. The CEI is an ever-evolving tool – a blueprint that companies can use to show up more effectively in supporting their LGBTQ+ employees and their families.”

The full report is available online at http://www.hrc.org/cei.

About the Human Rights Campaign Foundation:
The Human Rights Campaign Foundation is the educational arm of the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) people. Through its programs, the HRC Foundation seeks to make transformational change in the everyday lives of LGBTQ+ people, shedding light on inequity and deepening the public’s understanding of LGBTQ+ issues, with a clear focus on advancing transgender and racial justice. Its work has transformed the landscape for more than 15 million workers, 11 million students, 1 million clients in the adoption and foster care system and so much more. The HRC Foundation provides direct consultation and technical assistance to institutions and communities, driving the advancement of inclusive policies and practices; it builds the capacity of future leaders and allies through fellowship and training programs; and, with the firm belief that we are stronger working together, it forges partnerships with advocates in the U.S. and around the globe to increase our impact and shape the future of our work.

About Gilbane Building Company:
Gilbane Building Company is a global leader in construction management, delivering high-quality projects for clients across various markets. Gilbane provides a full slate of construction and facilities-related services – from preconstruction planning and integrated consulting capabilities to comprehensive construction management, general contracting, design-build, and facility management services. Founded in 1870, Gilbane is still a privately held, family-owned company. With more than 45 office locations worldwide, Gilbane brings world-class experience to local communities.

For more information, visit http://www.gilbaneco.com.

Media Contact

Lynn Rasic, Gilbane Building Company, 212-822-0319, [email protected], gilbaneco.com

SOURCE Gilbane Building Company

Legal / Law: Criminal Law

PrideStaff Gifts Top Ten Largest Food Donation to the Fresno Mission

Leave a comment


PrideStaff collected 1,124 items for Fresno Mission, weighing in at 1,211 pounds of food, which will nourish the guests of the Fresno Mission’s Dakota Street and G Street locations. This generous donation from PrideStaff is among the top ten largest food contributions Fresno Mission has ever received—and is a credit to the compassion of PrideStaff employees, associates, and clients.

Tammi Heaton and Mike Aprile, PrideStaff Co-CEOs, are thrilled with the bountiful response to their Home Office’s food drive. “Mike and I would like to recognize the Accounts Payable Department for leading this year’s canned food drive benefiting the Fresno Mission,” stated Heaton. “Fresno Mission’s work addresses some of the city’s biggest challenges—and significantly impacts the lives of those who need help in our community.

“Last week, Mike and I toured the incredible Fresno Mission City Center, a shared campus that brings together more than twenty organizations focused on meeting people’s emergency needs,” continued Heaton. “We were proud to learn that PrideStaff’s canned goods contribution is among the top ten highest contributions the Fresno Mission has ever received. We’re grateful to each and every member of the PrideStaff community who donated to this worthy cause.”

About PrideStaff 
PrideStaff was founded in the 1970s as 100% company-owned units and began staffing franchising in 1995. They operate over 85 offices in North America to serve more than 5,000 clients and are headquartered in Fresno, CA. With 40 plus years in the staffing business, PrideStaff offers the resources and expertise of a national firm, with the spirit, dedication and personal service of smaller, entrepreneurial firms. PrideStaff is the only nationwide, commercial staffing firm in the U.S. and Canada with over $100 million in annual revenue to earn ClearlyRated’s prestigious Best of Staffing 10-Year Diamond Awards five years in a row, highlighting exceptional client and talent service quality. 

For more information on our services, or for staffing franchise information, visit our website.

Media Contact

Bri Castro, PrideStaff, 559.432.7780, [email protected], www.pridestaff.com

SOURCE PrideStaff

Health

Breast International Group (BIG) Highlights Innovations and Challenges in Breast Cancer Research, Exclusive Interview by Xtalks

Leave a comment


In an interview by Xtalks, Dr. David Cameron, Chair of the Breast International Group (BIG), shared valuable insights into the current state of breast cancer research, emphasizing the role of clinical trials and the integration of patient perspectives in research. BIG’s efforts, as outlined by Dr. Cameron, represent a substantial leap forward in understanding and treating breast cancer, with a strong emphasis on global collaboration and patient involvement.

TORONTO, Dec. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — In an exclusive interview, Xtalks delves into the current state of breast cancer research, highlighting the role of clinical trials and the integration of patient perspectives in clinical research. Featuring Dr. David Cameron, Chair of the Breast International Group (BIG), the discussion revolves around the importance of collaboration and patient involvement in breast cancer clinical research.

Dr. Cameron emphasized the importance of international collaboration in advancing breast cancer research. BIG, as the leading global network of academic breast clinical trialists, is spearheading international efforts to innovate treatment options and
understand the complexities of breast cancer.

In the interview, Dr. Cameron highlighted the diverse nature of breast cancer and the resulting complexities in patient enrollment for clinical trials. Challenges include varying availability of trials, changing treatment philosophies, the complexity of the disease and the influence of public perception.

BIG has long valued the patient perspective, including them in trial steering groups. Dr. Cameron advocates for a more profound inclusion, where patients influence not just how trials are conducted but also which trials are pursued. This approach ensures that research aligns with patient priorities and questions.

Recognizing the global strides in involving patients in research, BIG is committed to a patient-centric approach. This includes international collaboration to shape trial questions and providing mentorship and training for patients to engage effectively in the research process.

BIG’s efforts, as outlined by Dr. Cameron, represent a significant leap forward in understanding and treating breast cancer, with a strong emphasis on global collaboration and patient involvement.

To read the full interview, visit Amplifying Patient Voices in Breast Cancer Clinical Trials.

ABOUT XTALKS
Xtalks, powered by Honeycomb Worldwide Inc., is a leading provider of educational webinars and digital content to the global life science, food, healthcare and medical device communities. Every year, thousands of industry practitioners (from pharmaceutical, biotechnology, food, healthcare and medical device companies, private & academic research institutions, healthcare centers, etc.) turn to Xtalks for access to quality content. Xtalks helps professionals stay current with industry developments, regulations and jobs. Xtalks webinars also provide perspectives on key issues from top industry thought leaders and service providers.

To learn more about Xtalks visit http://xtalks.com
For information about hosting a webinar visit http://xtalks.com/why-host-a-webinar/

Media Contact
Vera Kovacevic, Xtalks, +1 (416) 977-6555 x371, [email protected]

SOURCE Xtalks

Society: Christianity

Season 10 of FINDING YOUR ROOTS WITH HENRY LOUIS GATES, JR. Paired With New Season of Local History Series LOST LA On New PBS SoCal 2024 Schedule

Leave a comment


Sixth Season of Regional Historical Documentary Series Features A Look at Local Fast Food, Tiki Culture, Cemeteries, Historic Filipinotown and More With Special Encore January 3 on KCET

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — PBS SoCal and KCET, Southern California’s flagship PBS stations, announced today the 2024 return of the locally produced, historical documentary series LOST LA, a co-production with the University of Southern California Libraries, part of their longstanding commitment to building public engagement with regional history collections. Public historian and writer Nathan Masters returns as Host for the sixth season of LOST LA with untold histories behind tiki culture, fast food, Historic Filipinotown, hiking, tuberculosis and cemeteries. LOST LA joins the previously announced award-winning, acclaimed series FINDING YOUR ROOTS WITH HENRY LOUIS GATES, JR to complete a night of historical exploration. Celebrated scholar Dr. Henry Louis Gates, Jr. will helm the 10th anniversary season of FINDING YOUR ROOTS, which will trace the ancestral histories of the series’ first-ever, non-celebrity participants in addition to 18 new celebrity guests. The new season of LOST LA is scheduled on PBS SoCal beginning Tues., Jan. 2 at 7:30 p.m. PT, leading into 10, all-new episodes of FINDING YOUR ROOTS at 8 p.m. PT. A special encore of LOST LA will also be broadcast on Wed., Jan. 3 at 8 p.m. PT on KCET in Southern California. After the broadcast, each episode of LOST LA and FINDING YOUR ROOTS will be available to stream on their companion websites above and on the free PBS App. Members of PBS SoCal and KCET will get early access to stream all six episodes on PBS Passport starting Jan. 2.

The half-hour series LOST LA explores the region’s hidden past through documents, photos and other rare artifacts from California libraries and archives. Since its premiere in January of 2016, the series has continued to challenge the assumption that Los Angeles is a city without a history. Instead, LOST LA offers a history of Southern California that is not often told, or has been forgotten, bringing primary sources of Los Angeles history to the screen and connecting them to the Los Angeles of today.

Ten new episodes of FINDING YOUR ROOTS will debut in the new season that in addition to exploring the family mysteries of three members of the viewing public after a nationwide casting call, will solve family mysteries of well-known guests including actors Valerie Bertinelli (“One Day at a Time”), Danielle Brooks (“The Color Purple”), LeVar Burton (“Star Trek”), Michael Douglas (“Wall Street”), Lena Dunham (“Girls”), Brendan Fraser (“The Whale”), Tracy Morgan (“30 Rock”), Ed O’Neill (“Modern Family”), Bob Odenkirk (“Better Call Saul”), Anthony Ramos (“In the Heights”), Wes Studi (“The Last of the Mohicans”), Jesse Williams (“Grey’s Anatomy”); comedian Iliza Shlesinger; musicians Ciara, Sammy Hagar, Alanis Morissette and Dionne Warwick; and journalist Sunny Hostin.

The new episodes of LOST LA will be telecast as follows (subject to change):

“Fast Food and Car Culture” – Tues., Jan. 2 at 7:30 p.m. on PBS SoCal / Wed., Jan. 3 at 8 p.m. on KCET
From McDonald’s to Taco Bell, many of the world’s most iconic fast-food chains were born in SoCal including Bob’s Big Boy, In-N-Out Burger and Del Taco. This episode explores how car culture and the restaurant industry collided in the LA region, forever shaping the way Americans dine and drive. Featured interviews include: LA Times’ Gustavo Arrellano and Stacy Perman, LA Magazine’s Chris Nichols and author/chef George Geary.

“Historic Filipinotown” – Tues., Jan. 9 at 7:30 p.m. on PBS SoCal / Wed., Jan. 10 at 8 p.m. on KCET
Filipino Americans fight to make their heritage more visible in Los Angeles. This episode explores the Yo-Yo’s surprising origin story, tours Historic Filipinotown in a Jeepny and tastes classic Filipino street foods. Featured interviews include: activist/librarian Florante Ibanez and the hosts of “This Filipino Life” podcast.

“Hiking Trailblazers” – Tues., Jan. 16 at 7:30 p.m. on PBS SoCal / Wed., Jan. 17 at 8 p.m. on KCET
Meet the people who led Angelenos onto their local trails, including early wellness guru Paul Bragg. In this episode, Nathan explores the origins of LA hiking, from the Indigenous people who first walked the land to activists like Walk Good’s Etienne Maurice who blaze new paths over familiar terrain. Featured interviews include: Modern Hiker’s Casey Schreiner.

“Eternal City: Los Angeles Cemeteries” – Tues., Jan. 23 at 7:30 p.m. on PBS SoCal / Wed., Jan. 24 at 8 p.m. on KCET
Visit Forest Lawn, Evergreen and Hollywood Forever to see how LA reinvented the cemetery. In this episode, Nathan and UCLA’s Eric Avila visit the gravesites of the rich and famous while learning how racial segregation once divided the dead. Featured interviews include: The Chinese Historical Society’s Eugene Moy and film historian Karie Bible.

“Tuberculosis, the Forgotten Plague” – Tues., Jan. 30 at 7:30 p.m. on PBS SoCal / Wed., Jan. 31 at 8 p.m. on KCET
Archives reveal the “forgotten plague” that shaped Southern California. In this episode, Nathan explores how California’s fresh air and cheap land drew consumptives to local sanatoriums as well as the stark reality of life as a tuberculosis patient. Featured interviews include: USC’s William Deverell, LA Times’ Patt Morrison and infectious disease specialist Dr. Brenda Jones.

“Tiki Bars and Their Hollywood Origins” – Tues., Feb. 6 at 7:30 p.m. on PBS SoCal / Wed., Feb. 7 at 8 p.m. on KCET
Nathan explores some of the oldest Tiki bars in Southern California. In this episode, discover the Hollywood origins of Don the Beachcomber and learn how postwar American pop culture appropriated the rich traditions of the South Pacific. Featured interviews include: Tiki Ti’s Mike Buhen, Tiki Scholar Sven Kirsten and Strong Water’s Ying Chang and Robert Adamson.

Digital efforts will build upon the stories told in each of this season’s episodes, highlighting never-before-seen, newly digitized historic images and focusing on the unique access to archives that is at the core of LOST LA. Audiences will also have the opportunity to share their own stories, as well as interact with show creators including host Nathan Masters during a live chat/Q&A on YouTube during the premiere of “Fast Food and Car Culture” on Tues., Jan. 2 at 7:30 p.m. PT.

In conjunction with the new Lost LA season, PBS SoCal will be making episodes from this and past seasons of the series available on the Events Resource Library on pbssocal.org. With a range of original local content, this free digital hub equips organizations to host community screenings. Offering customizable invites, downloadable episodes and engaging post-screening content, the Events Resource Library fosters local storytelling, dialogue and connections.

LOST LA is supported by The Ralph M. Parsons Foundation and the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors through the Department of Arts and Culture and Creative Recovery LA and other generous institutional funders.

For more information about LOST LA and to watch episodes online, visit pbssocal.org/LostLA

Follow on social at @pbssocal and @kcet.

About PBS SOCAL and KCET
PBS SoCal and KCET are both part of the donor-supported community institution, the Public Media Group of Southern California. PBS SoCal is the flagship PBS station for diverse people across California and delivers content and experiences that inspire, inform and educate. PBS SoCal offers the full slate of beloved PBS programs including MASTERPIECE, NOVA, PBS NewsHour, FRONTLINE, and a broad library of documentary films with works from Ken Burns; as well as educational content including PBS KIDS programs like DANIEL TIGER’S NEIGHBORHOOD and CURIOUS GEORGE. KCET showcases the best of PBS and is a leading source for arts, culture, and news in Southern California. Through innovative storytelling, KCET explores and expresses our dynamic local communities helping residents understand and connect with the region’s diverse communities and ideas. For additional information about both KCET and PBS SoCal productions, web-exclusive content, programming schedules and community events, please visit kcet.org and pbssocal.org. Locally produced original content and PBS programs are available to stream on the FREE PBS App, which is available on iOS and Android devices, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Android TV, Samsung Smart TV, Chromecast and VIZIO SmartCast TV. PBS SoCal is available to livestream on the PBS App, YouTube TV, Direct TV now, Hulu TV Live and Local Now. KCET is also available to watch live on YouTube TV.

About USC LIBRARIES
The USC Libraries actively support the discovery, creation, and preservation of knowledge at the University of Southern California and beyond. The libraries serve as host institution for L.A. as Subject, an association of more than 267 libraries, cultural institutions, official archives, and private collectors dedicated to preserving and telling the sometimes-hidden histories of the Los Angeles region. Southern California history is among the USC Libraries’ prominent collections and programming strengths, and Lost LA is an emblem of USC’s connection and commitment to Los Angeles as a Pacific Rim megacity.

About McGee Media
McGee Media was founded by award-winning filmmaker Dyllan McGee to produce documentary content that is innovative, compelling, and immersive. Every story is born from a vision of a fairer and more equitable world. Whether it is the sweeping history of the African-American experience, or the intimate personal stories of the hundreds of women who made up the feminist movement, McGee Media uses television, film, and digital media in radical new ways to inform and inspire. Recent projects include Emmy nominated FREDERICK DOUGLASS: IN FIVE SPEECHES (HBO), NOT DONE: WOMEN REMAKING AMERICA (PBS), THE BLACK CHURCH: THIS IS OUR STORY, THIS IS OUR SONG (PBS), and BLACK AMERICA SINCE MLK: AND STILL I RISE (PBS) as well as MAKING BLACK AMERICA, RECONSTRUCTION: AMERICA AFTER THE CIVIL WAR (PBS), AFRICA’S GREAT CIVILIZATIONS (PBS), MAKERS (PBS), FINDING YOUR ROOTS (PBS), ONCE & FOR ALL (AOL), FIRST IN HUMAN (Discovery), and RANCHER, FARMER, FISHERMAN (Discovery).

About Inkwell Media
Inkwell Media was founded by Henry Louis Gates, Jr. to produce sophisticated documentary films about the African and African-American experience for a broad audience. The six-part PBS documentary series THE AFRICAN AMERICANS: MANY RIVERS TO CROSS (2013) earned the 2013 Peabody Award and NAACP Image Award. Inkwell has co-produced FREDERICK DOUGLASS: IN FIVE SPEECHES (2022), FINDING YOUR ROOTS, Seasons 1-9 (2012-2023), MAKING BLACK AMERICA (2022), THE BLACK CHURCH: THIS IS OUR STORY, THIS IS OUR SONG (2021), RECONSTRUCTION: AMERICA AFTER THE CIVIL WAR (2019), AFRICA’S GREAT CIVILIZATIONS (2017), BLACK AMERICA SINCE MLK: AND STILL I RISE (2016), BLACK IN LATIN AMERICA (2011), FACES OF AMERICA (2010), LOOKING FOR LINCOLN (2009), AFRICAN AMERICAN LIVES 2 (2008), OPRAH‘S ROOTS (2007) and AFRICAN AMERICAN LIVES (2006).

About Kunhardt Films
Kunhardt Films specializes in documentary films about the people and ideas that shape American history. Most recently completed is the 4 part Apple TV+ documentary series, LINCOLN’S DILEMMA. Previous documentaries include the 3-part HBO series, OBAMA: IN PURSUIT OF A MORE PERFECT UNION and feature documentary, A CHOICE OF WEAPONS: INSPIRED BY GORDON PARKS. Past productions include Emmy and Peabody award winning, TRUE JUSTICE: BRYAN STEVENSON’S FIGHT FOR EQUALITY (HBO, 2019); JOHN MCCAIN: FOR WHOM THE BELL TOLLS (HBO, 2018); KING IN THE WILDERNESS (HBO, 2018); THE NEWSPAPERMAN: THE LIFE AND TIMES OF BEN BRADLEE (HBO, 2017); BECOMING WARREN BUFFETT (HBO, 2017); JIM: THE JAMES FOLEY STORY (HBO, 2016). Other films include LIVING WITH LINCOLN (HBO, 2015); NIXON BY NIXON: IN HIS OWN WORDS (HBO, 2014); FINDING YOUR ROOTS (PBS); MAKERS: WOMEN WHO MAKE AMERICA (PBS); THE AFRICAN AMERICANS: MANY RIVERS TO CROSS; (PBS); and GLORIA: IN HER OWN WORDS (HBO, 2011). Kunhardt Films was founded in 1987 as Kunhardt Productions. It is run by Peter Kunhardt and his two sons Teddy and George in Pleasantville, New York.

About WETA
WETA is the leading public broadcaster in the nation’s capital, serving Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia with educational initiatives and with high-quality programming on television, radio and digital platforms. WETA Washington, D.C., is the second-largest producing station for public television in the United States, with news and public affairs programs including PBS NEWSHOUR and WASHINGTON WEEK WITH THE ATLANTIC; documentaries by Ken Burns and Florentine Films, such as THE AMERICAN BUFFALO and THE U.S. AND THE HOLOCAUST; series and documentaries by Prof. Henry Louis Gates, Jr., including GOSPEL and MAKING BLACK AMERICA: THROUGH THE GRAPEVINE; performance specials including IN PERFORMANCE AT THE WHITE HOUSE and THE LIBRARY OF CONGRESS GERSHWIN PRIZE FOR POPULAR SONG; and health content from Well Beings, a multiplatform campaign. More information on WETA and its programs and services is available at http://www.weta.org. Visit http://www.facebook.com/wetatvfm on Facebook or follow @WETAtvfm on Twitter.

About PBS
PBS, with more than 330 member stations, offers all Americans the opportunity to explore new ideas and new worlds through television and digital content. Each month, PBS reaches over 42 million adults on linear primetime television, more than 15 million users on PBS-owned streaming platforms, and 56 million people view PBS content on social media, inviting them to experience the worlds of science, history, nature, and public affairs; to hear diverse viewpoints; and to take front-row seats to world-class drama and performances. PBS’s broad array of programs has been consistently honored by the industry’s most coveted award competitions. Teachers of children from pre-K through 12th‥grade turn to PBS LearningMedia for digital content and services that help bring classroom lessons to life. As the number one educational media brand, PBS KIDS helps children 2-8 build critical skills, enabling them to find success in school and life. Delivered through member stations, PBS KIDS offers high-quality content on TV — including a PBS KIDS channel — and streaming free on‥pbskids.org and the PBS KIDS Video app, games on the PBS KIDS Games app, and in communities across America. More information about PBS is available at PBS.org, one of the leading dot-org websites on the internet,‥Facebook, Instagram, or through‥our‥apps for mobile and connected devices. Specific program information and updates for press are available at‥pbs.org/pressroom‥or by following PBS Communications on Twitter.

PRESS CONTACT:
[email protected]

Media Contact
Allison Gray, PBS SoCal, 747.201.5298, [email protected], pbssocal.org/LostLA

SOURCE PBS SoCal

Health

FHU Physical Therapist Assistant Program Receives Accreditation Status, Set to Graduate Inaugural Cohort

Leave a comment


The inaugural cohort of the PTA program began courses in the fall of 2022 and will graduate on December 15, 2023. Students will sit for their national licensure examination (NPTE) in the spring of 2024. The program currently has two cohorts of students.

Applications for the fall 2024 cohort will open on December 1, 2023, with a deadline for submission on March 31, 2024. The PTA program accepts a maximum of 18 students each fall semester. The program is a 1+1 degree model, meaning that students who have already completed prerequisite and general education requirements can complete the program in as few as three academic semesters. Students without any academic credit will need five semesters.

Classes are taught four days per week during the fall and spring semesters. The program is a three-semester blend of didactic and clinical education experiences. It includes 640 hours of clinical experience in both the outpatient and inpatient settings under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist or a physical therapist assistant who is supervised by a licensed physical therapist. At this time, students have completed clinical education rotations in Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama, Colorado and Wyoming. In addition to clinical education experiences, the program has created a voluntary medical missions experience to Honduras that takes place each summer.

Prentice serves as the PTA program director. A 2012 alumna of FHU, she has been a practicing clinician since 2015. Brian Vaughn, with more than 20 years of experience in the outpatient clinical setting, serves as the program’s director of clinical education. Both faculty members hold a Master of Education in curriculum and instruction from Freed-Hardeman University.

CAPTE is the only accreditation agency recognized by the United States Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation to accredit entry-level physical therapist and physical therapist education programs, according to its website. The organization currently accredits more than 250 physical therapist education programs and more than 350 physical therapy assistant programs, predominantly in the United States.

The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at Freed-Hardeman University is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085; telephone: 703-706-3245; email: [email protected]; website: capteonline.org. In order to contact the program/institution directly, please call 731-989-6097 or email [email protected].

The mission of Freed-Hardeman University’s Physical Therapist Assistant Program is to equip students with an education that integrates Christian faith, scholarship and service in order to provide holistic healthcare services to individuals and communities throughout the world. By growing in knowledge through dedicated faculty and a comprehensive curriculum focused on contemporary practice, the program will prepare graduates to serve as competent and ethical physical therapist assistants working under the direction and supervision of a licensed physical therapist.

Media Contact

Dawn Bramblett, Freed-Hardeman University, 731-608-7650, [email protected], fhu.edu

SOURCE Freed-Hardeman University

Health: Mental Health

Convergent Dental reaches new milestone as its Solea® All-Tissue Dental Laser is now being used by dentists in all 50 U.S. states

Leave a comment


The Solea All-Tissue Laser is a comprehensive dental practice solution unlike any other. It’s a 9.3-µm CO2 laser that allows for anesthesia-free, blood-free, and pain-free procedures in hard and soft tissue.(1) Convergent Dental unites this novel technology with education & community, enabling dentists to elevate and grow their practices through improved efficiency, patient experience, clinical effectiveness, and procedural expansion.

“Solea elevates practice possibilities and serves as a practice multiplier, allowing dentists to streamline existing procedures, add new treatments, and complement their digital technology,” said Robert L. Gershon, CEO of Convergent Dental. “We are thrilled to see continued broad-based adoption of Solea throughout North America and beyond.”

To learn more about Convergent Dental, visit convergentdental.com.

About Convergent Dental
Convergent Dental, Inc. is a privately owned dental equipment and technology company. The Company’s flagship product, Solea®, is the only CO2 laser to be cleared by the FDA for all-tissue indications and delivers an anesthesia-free, blood-free, suture-free experience that dentists can rely on.(1) Solea® is a true breakthrough in dental laser technology that offers a completely different experience for both dentists and patients when compared to traditional instruments or any earlier laser treatment. Solea® enables dentists to elevate their practices through improved efficiency, patient experience, clinical effectiveness, and procedural expansion.(2)

For more information, please visit http://www.convergentdental.com. Follow the company on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

[1] Based on report of 1000 procedures performed by Solea users. Documentation on file.
[2] Based on 2022 Annual Survey of Solea users. Documentation on file.

Media Contact

Caitlin D’Entremont, Convergent Dental, 508-500-5056, [email protected], https://www.convergentdental.com/

SOURCE Convergent Dental



Health

FreeOx Biotech Formally Launches Seed Round to Fund Phase III Pivotal Trial

Leave a comment


Planned Phase III for Ox-01 to Begin in AIS in Early 2025 • Pivotal Trial to Evaluate Novel Adjunct Drug for Mechanical Thrombectomy

BARCELONA, Spain, Dec. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — FreeOx Biotech SL, a late-stage clinical biopharmaceutical company pioneering the development of a novel drug class for Acute Ischemic Stroke (AIS), announced today the formal launch of a seed round to advance the company’s novel stroke drug into Phase III clinical development. Simultaneously, FreeOx said it had successfully completed a first close of €1.7 million from investors in Canada, the U.S., Spain, and Israel. The company has compelling Phase II data and plans to initiate a Phase III registrational trial of its first novel adjunct drug to be used in mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in AIS where reperfusion challenges exist despite positive outcomes in this modality. FreeOx has strong intellectual property covering Uric Acid and its use in stroke treatment.

According to Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer Emmett-Phil Coriat, “The endorsement of Uric Acid (UA), the active ingredient in Ox-01, our Phase III-ready investigational drug by the National Institutes of Health, NINDS’ SPAN (Stroke Preclinical Assessment Network), is central to our confidence in moving forward. As reported in SCIENCE TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE, Uric Acid was the only one of five interventional drug candidates for which data supported further clinical evaluation, as it demonstrated unprecedented efficacy compared to the others. As such, the NINDS indicated potential interest in funding Ox-01’s Phase III trial.

“The NINDS’ advocacy underscores their confidence in the efficacy and potential of Ox-01 as a ground-breaking adjunct therapy in MT for AIS. We are confident that Ox-01 will significantly reduce disability in AIS patients.” Coriat added that that the company’s fundraising target was a total investment of €5 million and that the initial €1.7 million will be used primarily to advance FreeOx Biotech’s lead product, Ox-01 to a Phase III registrational trial in the U.S. In addition to the pharmaceutical grade Uric Acid active ingredient in Ox-01, FreeOx is building a pipeline based on a proprietary liposomal formulation technology that broadly expands opportunities in neurology.

Stroke Background

Stroke is the leading cause of disability worldwide, according to the American Stroke Association. While advances have been made with mechanical thrombectomy, significant unmet needs exist when 50 percent of Large Vessel Occlusion patients have insufficient restoration of their microcirculation and ensuing disabilities.

For more information about FreeOx Biotech and its groundbreaking stroke treatment technology, please visit the company’s website at https://freeoxbiotech.com/.

About FreeOx Biotech

FreeOx Biotech is a leading late-stage clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing Cerebrovascular Protective Therapy, a new drug class for the emergency treatment of Acute Ischemic Stroke (AIS) patients. By focusing on restoring microcirculation homeostasis and enhancing penumbra reperfusion, FreeOx Biotech aims to revolutionize stroke care and improve patient outcomes. FreeOx’ s lead product, Ox-01, is Phase III- ready. FreeOx is building a pipeline based on a proprietary liposomal formulation technology that broadly expands opportunities in neurology. Founded by Dr. !ngel Chamorro, MD, a leading stroke neurologist and pioneer in the use of Uric Acid as an emergency treatment for AIS, FreeOx ‘s novel adjunct drug has been shown to reperfuse the brain microcirculation. By contrast, current emergency AIS treatments are effective only in addressing recanalization (macrocirculation restoration).

Media Contact

Emmett-Phil Coriat, FreeOx Biotech, 1 (514)792-1264, [email protected] 

Gabriella Perez-Silva, 1 (714) 875-6424, [email protected] 

SOURCE FreeOx Biotech

Legal / Law: Criminal Law

Beyond Green Showcases Their Brand Commitment with First Global Impact Report

Leave a comment


“I am thrilled to share Beyond Green’s first Global Impact Report, these results shine a light on the amazing work our members do across the three key pillars of sustainable tourism, Nature, Community, and Culture, demonstrating how critical this topic is and why we are passionate and committed stewards of this philosophy. Together, we can harness the power of travel to be a force for good, leaving behind a legacy for generations of travelers to come.” Says Lindsey Ueberroth, CEO of Preferred Travel Group.

Key report highlights include:

  • Dedicated Sustainability Positions: Over 90% of Beyond Green members have a dedicated Sustainability Manager or equivalent position or team, steering the evolution and on-site implementation of member’s sustainability programs.
  • Reducing and Eliminating Single-Use Plastics: 100% of Beyond Green members have eliminated single-use plastic water bottles from their operations. Additional efforts to reduce and eliminate single-use plastics include utilizing biodegradable packaging and employing more sustainable materials throughout hotel operations, such as re-usable room keys made with wood or bamboo.
  • For example, a unique glass bottle crusher creates sand used across The Ranch at Laguna Beach‘s GEO-certified golf course in California – while also reducing glass waste stream by 90%.
  • Renewable Energy: Nearly 70% of Beyond Green members utilize renewable energy sources, including solar panels, wind turbines, and other sources such as biomass derived from certified wood pellets.
  • The Brando excels in leveraging renewables, utilizing everything from renewable solar fields to an innovative Sea Water Air Conditioning (SWAC) system that harnesses cold water from the deep sea to naturally cool spaces without damaging hydrofluorocarbons.
  • Endangered Species Protection: Beyond Green members actively contribute to the protection of over 24 animal species and 1 plant species registered on either the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List or the US Endangered Species list.
  • A leader in marine conservation, andBeyond Mnemba Island worked in partnership with the Ministry of Blue to establish Mnemba Island Marine Special Area (MIMSA), which grants additional protection to the surrounding biodiverse waters. The property also serves as one of the few protected nesting sites for the endangered green sea turtle – and allows lodge guests to join in on monitoring efforts.
  • Philanthropy & Donations: Through direct financial, in-kind, and guest donations, Beyond Green members donated a total of $3,138,449 during 2021-2022, supporting local communities, as well as natural and cultural initiatives.
  • Talaia Plaza EcoResort in Catalonia, Spain, established the Plaza Terra Viva Foundation in December 2022 to scale support for local nonprofits and projects protecting the region’s rich heritage and enhancing the well-being of its residents.
  • Protecting Cultural Heritage: Properties authentically share local cultural heritage with guests through a distinct sense of place that reflects the traditional architecture and regional décor, culinary programs, and immersive guest experiences that explore local history, folklore, and art.
  • Three Camel Lodge in Mongolia’s Gobi Desert safeguards the region’s storied traditions and living heritage through a project to restore the Mongolian Bankhar, a breed of mastiff dog native to the surrounding steppe.
  • Community, Social and Economic Well-Being: Members actively support local communities, by hiring locally, partnering with local businesses, artists, and artisans, and contributing to micro-enterprise projects, education, health, and other community development priorities.
  • The Parkside Hotel & Spa on Vancouver Island became the first hotel in British Columbia to start a Memorandum of Reconciliation (MOR) to “recognize the historical relationship of the Songhees Nation with the land upon which The Parkside stands.” Guests are invited to join the Lekwungen, known today as the Songhees and Esquimalt People, and learn about indigenous culture through guided canoe and walking tours that reveal a unique perspective on the city’s heritage unknown to most travelers.

These transformative efforts led to Beyond Green’s recent recognition as an honoree in the Travel + Leisure 2023 Global Vision Awards, celebrating innovators and sustainability leaders.

“Beyond Green members demonstrate what is possible when world-class hospitality and sustainable solutions converge, and their collective positive impact in supporting local Nature, Culture and Community represents the transformation of travel; where exceptional guest stays are tied to the protection of our planet and well-being of its inhabitants. They inspire through action and continuously set the bar for sustainability leadership around the world, offering a guiding light and invitation for others to join this essential journey.” Says Nina Boys, Vice President of Sustainability, Beyond Green Travel.

All statistics used in the report are based on quantitative and qualitative data derived from a comprehensive digital sustainability survey conducted with Beyond Green member hotels, featuring 67 questions that reflect their efforts and impact between January 2021 and December 2022. A total of 26 Beyond Green members completed the survey in full, and the report was written and co-developed by Beyond Green Travel, a leading sustainable tourism consultancy and sister company of Beyond Green within Preferred Travel Group.

Read the full report here. For stays at any of the member hotels, travelers are invited to book via the Beyond Green brand website.

ABOUT BEYOND GREEN  

Guided by a passion to embrace travel as a force for good, Beyond Green is a global portfolio of planet Earth’s most sustainable hotels. To create a more purposeful way to explore the world where good guests meet good hosts, Beyond Green has curated a unique portfolio of hotels, resorts, and lodges based on their commitment to deliver on the three pillars of sustainable tourism: environmentally friendly practices that go beyond the basics; protection of natural and cultural heritage; and contribution to the social and economic wellbeing of local communities. To be considered for membership in Beyond Green, a property is vetted according to more than 50 sustainability indicators that align with global sustainable tourism standards and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Owned and operated by Preferred Travel Group – the family-owned company that manages and operates other hospitality brands including Preferred Hotels & Resorts, Historic Hotels of America, and Historic Hotels Worldwide – Beyond Green ushers in a new way to experience genuine hospitality by the people for the planet. For more information, visit www.StayBeyondGreen.com.

ABOUT PREFERRED TRAVEL GROUP

Owned and operated by the Ueberroth Family, Preferred Travel Group is the parent company of Preferred Hotels & Resorts, Beyond Green, Historic Hotels of America, Historic Hotels Worldwide, PTG Consulting, and Beyond Green Travel, representing more than 1,100 hotels, resorts, and residences across 80 countries, in addition to a global portfolio of destination marketing organizations and tourist boards. With more than 250 seasoned travel professionals situated across 20 countries, the company connects independent hotels, hospitality companies, and destinations to key markets worldwide through strategic branding, sales, integrated marketing, revenue management, distribution services, and other consultancy services. Fueled by its brand promise, Believe in Travel, the company and its hotel and travel brands champion an unwavering belief in the transformative power of travel and its ability to enrich lives, inspire a greater respect for the Earth, and expand hearts and minds to other cultures and ways of living. For more information visit PreferredTravelGroup.com.

Media Contact
Kate Calciano, Beyond Green, 1 646 465 9786, [email protected], https://staybeyondgreen.com/

SOURCE Beyond Green