All posts by imreal

Soft Bones Announces the 2023 Recipient of Hypophosphatasia Research Grant


“The Soft Bones Scientific Advisory Board was delighted this year to review, once again, highly competitive grants aimed to help patients with HPP,” according to Dr. Michael P. Whyte, Chairman of the Soft Bones Scientific Advisory Board. “The proposal from Dr. Stenhouse will shed light on one of the least understood complications of HPP.”

The proposed study seeks novel insights into the role of the deficient tissue non-specific alkaline phosphatase on lung development and function while exploring the respiratory failure associated with the severe forms of HPP in people. The proposed experiments, using a sheep model, will investigate temporal changes in lung and diaphragm RNA expression and pathology of HPP.

“We are excited to use these funds for this new avenue of HPP research, which will enhance our understanding of the mechanisms underlying respiratory complications in HPP,” says Dr. Stenhouse.

Soft Bones funds research to understand HPP with the goal of finding a cure. The foundation has awarded over $500,000 in research grants since 2014, supporting HPP investigators through this Maher Family Annual Hypophosphatasia Research Grant. More information about HPP as well as existing and ongoing research can be found at www.SoftBones.org.

About Hypophosphatasia: HPP is an inherited, metabolic (chemical) bone disease of remarkably broad-ranging severity that causes life-threatening complications in approximately one per 100,000 births. There can be limb deformity, fractures, and chest deformity that leads to pneumonias. While currently there is no cure for HPP, medical and supportive treatment is directed towards preventing or correcting its signs, symptoms, and complications.

About Soft Bones, Inc.: Soft Bones, the US Hypophosphatasia Foundation, is a patient advocacy group founded in 2009 to educate, empower, and connect patients living with HPP, their families, and caregivers. The Foundation also promotes research of rare bone disease through awareness and fundraising efforts.

Related Links:

http://www.SoftBones.org

Media Contact

Denise Goodbar, Soft Bones, Inc., 1 973-453-3093, [email protected], www.SoftBones.org

SOURCE Soft Bones, Inc.

PostPilot Makes Vet100 List of Top Veteran-Owned Companies


“My service in the U.S. Navy helped shape me into the leader I am today,” said Drew Sanocki, co-CEO of PostPilot and a former naval intelligence officer. “We’re proud to count many veteran-owned businesses among our customers.”

PostPilot has had a blockbuster year, with an international expansion, new features and additional integrations. It has already sent a record number of postcards this holiday season.

“We’re still just at the tip of the iceberg,” said Michael Epstein, PostPilot co-CEO and a “civilian.” “We have big plans for the coming year, and are excited to offer our customers more—and more potent—ways to grow their brands.”

PostPilot reinvented classic direct mail for modern ecommerce brands, combining the advanced technology of a SAAS company with the personal attention of an agency.

Its campaigns target the full customer funnel, from cold prospecting to VIP retention and beyond, and can be personalized and automated. Native integrations with Shopify, Klaviyo and other top ecommerce platforms let brands seamlessly leverage their existing data and marketing flows.

For more information, visit https://www.postpilot.com.

About PostPilot
PostPilot is the fastest-growing direct-mail marketing company in the U.S., ranked #207 in the 2023 Inc 5000. Created by ecommerce people for ecommerce people, PostPilot makes it easy for brands to acquire and retain customers with smart, automated postcard campaigns.

Media Contact
Drew Sanocki, PostPilot, 1 854-888-9179, [email protected], https://www.postpilot.com/

SOURCE PostPilot

Mercury Broadband Begins Construction of New Fiber Optic High Speed Internet Network in Overbrook, Kansas


Mercury Broadband was founded originally in Topeka, KS in 2007 by brothers Garrett and Blake Wiseman. They recognized a huge need for broadband services in rural, smaller underserved markets like Overbrook. The company has now expanded beyond their Topeka roots to offer services in areas across Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Missouri, and their home state of Kansas. The company operates both fixed wireless and fiber-optic networks across these markets.

Tomorrow’s ground-breaking event will be attended by top company executives, Mayor Jon Brady and other City and community leaders. Demonstrations of the equipment used to build the fiber network will be provided along with a brief presentation from company executives. The public is invited to attend as well.

Mercury Broadband is now accepting early registrations from residents in the Overbrook community. Services are expected to be available for installation in early 2024. Service packages will offer internet download speeds of up to 1 gigabit with unlimited data, enhanced privacy, and content control features. Customers will also receive the Mercury@Home mobile application and a commercial grade router for enhanced Managed Wi-Fi capabilities. Each customer will also receive full on-site, custom installation from a Mercury Broadband technician.

Interested Overbrook residents can register now for Mercury Broadband fiber internet services by visiting the company’s website at https://mercurybroadband.com/fiber or call 1-800-354-4915.

About Mercury Broadband

Mercury Broadband is a leading provider of high-speed internet and digital phone services for homes and businesses across select rural markets in the Midwest. The company was founded in Topeka, KS., after recognizing a need for broadband services in these underserved markets. A hybrid approach to serving these “last mile” customers was developed by extending high-capacity fiber optic networks with the range, reliability, and flexibility of carrier-class wireless technologies to provide next generation services to customers.

Media Contact

Greg Crosby, Mercury Broadband, 1 800-354-4915 5009, [email protected], www.mercurybroadband.com

SOURCE Mercury Broadband

Women We Admire Announces Top 50 Women Leaders of Tennessee for 2023


Women We Admire is pleased to announce The Top 50 Women Leaders of Tennessee for 2023

NEW YORK, Nov. 10, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Women We Admire is pleased to announce The Top 50 Women Leaders of Tennessee for 2023. When people envision Tennessee, they typically associate it with its delectable fried cuisine, renowned whiskey, and a rich musical heritage that birthed various genres such as country, blues, and rock. The state is also the proud host of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most frequented national park in the U.S., welcoming over 12 million visitors annually. However, Tennessee offers much more than these well-known aspects, including a diverse and thriving economy. Notably, the area houses several major corporations, such as FedEx, the world’s largest courier company, and AutoZone, the largest retailer of automotive parts in the country.

Fortunately, there has been a significant evolution within Tennessee’s wide range of industries, marked by an increasing focus on women assuming leadership roles. This positive development signifies not only progress in the quest for gender equality but also underscores the invaluable contributions women have made across the various sectors that drive economic health for the Volunteer State — and beyond. In fact, some of the recipients of this year’s accolades are associated with well-known brands in the country, including FedEx, AT&T, Dollar General, and others.

This year’s honorees include Stacy Mill, the VP of IT and CISO at Nashville Electric Service. Globally recognized for her leadership and and technical vision, Mill is accountable for all IT strategy and execution across corporate systems including cybersecurity for the 11th largest public utility in the U.S. Awardee Nicole Bulgarino is an EVP for Ameresco, supporting the company’s mission to mitigate climate change and energize a more sustainable world. An industry veteran with 25 years of experience, Bulgarino’s numerous accomplishments include overseeing the development and implementation of over $3 billion of sustainable solutions in federal and government energy projects.

Lastly, we have the CHRO for Ardent Health Services, Carolyn Schneider, who has worked in the private equity-backed and investor-owned health system sectors throughout her entire career. This includes spending a decade at Capella Healthcare, which consistently received Best Place to Work designations from Modern Healthcare, Becker’s Review, The Oklahoman, and The Tennessean, all while under Schneider’s leadership.

Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments of The Top 50 Women Leaders of Tennessee for 2023.

Jill Brannon (FedEx), Joelle Phillips (AT&T Tennessee), Emily Taylor (Dollar General), Sara Correa (Bridgestone Americas), Rosslyn Cooper (WSP), Staci Jackson (LPL Financial), Deb Kirinovic (St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital – ALSAC), Lisa Stinnett (Inhabit®), Pamela Owen (Gallagher), Abby Hamm (Covenant), Lashell Vaughn (Memphis Light, Gas and Water), Cici Ebersole (Ducks Unlimited), Stacy Mill (Nashville Electric Service), Patricia Bible (KaTom Restaurant Supply, INC), Donna Jones (AdvoCap Insurance Agency, Inc.), Julie Henderson (Data Facts), Laura Deleot (Circa Creative Studios), Jennifer Outland (Rand Property Management), Monica Gawet (Tennessee Marble Company), Sherri Brooks (Baptist Memorial Health Care), Michelle Rigsby (Advocate Capital, Inc.), Alexa Voytek (Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation), Katherine Briefs (RenUSA.org), Marian Matthis (Blackbird Studio), and many others.

To view the full list, visit https://thewomenweadmire.com/2023/11/06/the-top-50-women-leaders-of-tennessee-for-2023/

About Women We Admire

Women We Admire provides news and information on today’s women leaders in business, entertainment, sports, motherhood, medicine, law, and many other fields. We cover a broad range of topics and areas of interest aimed at recognizing the achievements of exceptional women while inspiring others to aim high and continue their journey towards reaching their full potential. Women We Admire and its affiliates circulate its content to over 32,000 individuals and businesses.

Media Contact

Editor, Women We Admire, 1 609-365-7014, [email protected], https://thewomenweadmire.com/

SOURCE Women We Admire

FourthSquare Welcomes Wendy Harris as Vice President, Service Delivery


Wendy brings over 20 years in both the public and private sectors with experience in leadership, digital transformation, program and delivery management.

IRVING, Texas, Nov. 10, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — FourthSquare, a boutique global, digital and enterprise services company, welcomes Wendy Harris as its Vice President of Service Delivery. As a seasoned CIO in the public sector, Wendy brings a wealth of experience and proven track record as a leader of large organizations, directing IT Project Portfolios, managing Operational and Capital Improvement (CIP) budgets and meeting the goal of providing technological solutions while supporting City employees and Citizens through emerging technologies and process automation.

Wendy has previously worked as the Chief Information Office for the City of Memphis, TN and has held additional roles such Deputy CIO, IT Operations Manager and PMO Director. Wendy is a part of several organizations to include the Greater Memphis IT Council (GMITC) Women in Tech Group, the Society of Information Management (SIM), the University of Memphis Computer Science Advisory Board, the E.Republic Digital Communities Workgroup, the Memphis–Shelby County Schools CCTE Industry Advisory Board, and serves as a board member on the Greater Memphis IT Council.

“I am thrilled to welcome Wendy to the FourthSquare family. Her extensive experience in the public sector will be indispensable as we continue to grow and add value to the government organizations. Her expertise in digital transformation including Applications, Infrastructure and Data, perfectly aligns with our mission to provide best-in-class services to our public and private sector clients” said Venkatash Kovela, President & CEO of FourthSquare. “with Wendy on board, we are poised to excel in delivering innovative solutions and driving efficiency for our customers.”

Wendy expressed her enthusiasm, saying “It is my extreme pleasure to join the FourthSquare family. FourthSquare’s purpose to Simplify, Innovate, and Embrace has profoundly impacted organizations across various industries. I am committed to leveraging my experience in transformational leadership and cloud technology to improve efficiency and enhance the customer experience.”

Wendy received her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Memphis. She is a member of the Project Management Institute local and international chapters and holds technical and professional certifications, including the Project Management Professional (PMP) and Certified Scrum Master (CSM) certification.

About FourthSquare

FourthSquare is a fast growing, boutique global company providing end-to-end solutions from applications to infrastructure for business enterprises. Headquartered in Irving, TX, FourthSquare has multiple offices in the U.S and a global delivery center in India. With its bespoke engagement model, FourthSquare delivers transformational value to its clients across industry verticals.

FourthSquare delivers with gold standard, concierge customer service. We are scaled to be your 24/7/365 trusted partner with 360-degree approach to ensure every engagement exceeds expectations.

For further information, visit www.fourthsquare.com.

Media Contact

Venkatash Kovela, FourthSquare, LLC, 1 972-919-6135, [email protected], www.fourthsquare.com

SOURCE FourthSquare, LLC

Dror Paley, MD Named a 2023 Florida’s Most Influential Business Leaders by Florida Trend 500


The Institute, recognized as one of the foremost orthopedic limb and spine institutes in the nation and across the globe, is a testament to Dr. Paley’s groundbreaking vision. The impact of his work is far-reaching, with the Paley Orthopedic & Spine Institute at St. Mary’s Medical Center serving as a magnet for patients from all 50 states and over 100 countries, solidifying its status as the largest medical tourism orthopedic institute in the United States.

The Institute’s success has paved the way for international expansion, with the establishment of the Paley European Institute at Medicover Hospital in Warsaw, Poland, and the Paley Middle East Clinic at Burjeel Medical City Hospital in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. This global footprint enables the Paley Institutes to share their unparalleled expertise in treating bone, joint, and nerve conditions with the world.

The mission that propels the Paley Institutes is clear: to deliver the highest standard of orthopedic and neurosurgical care, addressing conditions ranging from simple fractures to the most complex limb and spine deformities. Dr. Paley’s leadership not only elevates the quality of healthcare but also contributes significantly to the economic and social fabric of Florida.

Dr. Paley, along with the Institute, expresses sincere gratitude for the continued recognition by Florida Trend Magazine. This honor is not only a testament to Dr. Paley’s individual achievements but also to the collective dedication of the Paley Institutes’ team, whose work continues to redefine the possibilities in orthopedic and neurosurgical care.

About Paley Orthopedic & Spine Institute

Founded in 2009 by Dr. Dror Paley, the Paley Orthopedic & Spine Institute offers advanced treatment for bone, joint, and nerve conditions, ranging from simple fractures to complex deformities. Renowned for “Paley Care,” the Institute’s experts deliver personalized, innovative care. With a presence across three continents, North American, Europe and Asia, the Institute sets global standards for surgical excellence. Dr. Paley’s 36 years of experience offer hope to patients worldwide. Discover more at paleyinstitute.org.

Media Contact

Christy Saia-Owenby, Paley Institute, 1 561-844-5255, [email protected], https://paleyinstitute.org/

SOURCE Paley Institute

New Options Medical Weight Loss Opening in Grove City, Ohio November 16


The comprehensive care team in Grove City is honored to bring a new standard of compassionate medical weight loss care to individuals in southern Columbus looking to lose weight and improve their overall health.

The Options team cordially invites the communities of Grove City, Obetz, Galloway, London, West Jefferson, Canal Winchester, Groveport and surrounding communities to join in celebrating the clinic’s grand opening Nov. 16, 2023 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.. The grand opening will have refreshments and special giveaways to celebrate. To learn more about the new Grove City Medical Weight Loss Clinic including sales and official grand opening details, click here.

At Options, the care team of licensed medical providers and health coaches work together to create customized weight loss plans tailored to patients’ individual needs, aspirations, and lifestyles. Not only does this approach help patients achieve weight loss success, but it also provides invaluable education, guidance, and support needed to manage a healthy weight for years to come.

Options’ comprehensive approach to weight loss is what makes it different. “At Options, we’re approaching weight loss and wellness from all angles. We are equipping you with the knowledge to make empowered decisions and take ownership of the path to freedom that you carve out. You will never walk out of our clinic with a meal or medications and be left to figure it out on your own. We position each patient with a team of specialists that rally around you and support you all along the way,” said Dr. Katrina Mattingly, Chief Medical Officer of Options Medical Weight Loss.

Learn what makes Options Medical Weight Loss different in this short video.

Patients can start their journey by signing up for a free consultation and metabolic scan on our website, or by calling 888-405-LOSE (5673).

About Options Medical Weight Loss:
Options Medical Weight Loss was founded in 2014 in Chicago, Illinois, and has since opened locations throughout Illinois, Ohio, Florida, Arizona, and now Indiana, with continued plans to expand to more states. Options Medical Weight Loss has helped more than 50,000 patients achieve their weight loss goals.

Media Contact

Stephanie Wright, Options Medical Weight Loss, 727.335.0235 x 115, [email protected], optionsmedicalweightloss.com

SOURCE Options Medical Weight Loss

Jacksonville Symphony Announces Partnership with CSX Providing Free Tickets to Active Military and Veterans


The Veterans Ticket Program will allow veterans and active members of the U.S. military with valid documentation to receive two complimentary tickets to select Florida Blue Classical, Paysafe Pops, Concert Organ and Symphony in 60 concerts. Two additional tickets can also be purchased at a reduced price of $15 each.

“We are proud to partner with the Jacksonville Symphony in extending a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to our brave active military personnel and veterans through the gift of music,” said Joe Hinrichs, CSX President and Chief Executive Officer. “At CSX, we take immense pride in our commitment to those who have served our nation, and this collaboration with the Jacksonville Symphony is a meaningful extension of our ‘Pride in Service’ initiative. By providing free tickets to the Symphony, we hope to create unforgettable moments for our military families in the Jacksonville area, bringing the joy of music into their lives as a token of our deep appreciation for their sacrifices and dedication to our country.”

To take advantage of this program, participating members must contact the Box Office by either visiting in person, calling 904.354.5547 or emailing [email protected]. Documentation of U.S. military active duty or veteran status must be proved in one of three ways:

  • Physically present the ID at the Box Office located at 300 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202
  • Scan a copy to [email protected]
  • Fax a copy to 904.354.9238

For more information, visit JaxSymphony.org.

About the Jacksonville Symphony
The Jacksonville Symphony is North Florida’s leading music nonprofit offering live performances at Jacoby Symphony Hall in the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts and other venues throughout the area. Led by President and CEO Steven Libman and Music Director Courtney Lewis, the Jacksonville Symphony reaches over 113,000 individuals through over 125 performances each season. In addition, the Symphony provides music instruction for youth and operates the Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestras. For more information about the Symphony, visit JaxSymphony.org.

Media Contact

Nichole Rivera, Jacksonville Symphony, 904.354.4513, [email protected], https://www.jaxsymphony.org/

SOURCE Jacksonville Symphony

A Full-Service Move Management Company Serving the 55+ Community


“I’m really excited about our new relationship with CRI,” says Greg Gunderson, founder and president of Gentle Transitions, California. “I’ve dreamed of taking this senior relocation concept nationwide or regionally, and now that we have an association with CRI, I think that will put us on a great foundation to take those next steps beyond what I can do in California.”

Sensitive to the transitional challenges faced by aging adults, WellRive offers clients a full-service moving solution; from space planning and design, packing and moving, home sale support and full settling-in, whether you’re moving locally or around the world.

“We are excited for the opportunity to enhance our customers’ experience through a myriad of customized solutions,” states Tiffany Crozier, President/CCO of CRI. “As an industry veteran and leader in the corporate relocation industry, we’ve spent decades building teams and vetting an ecosystem of preferred partners in real estate, home sale programs, temporary housing, moving solutions, donation & estate sale services, and more. It’s these additional services that we are excited to be able to offer to our active and aging adult population.

“We understand the complexities of a relocation, whether local or long distance, at any age and look forward to coordinating a full suite of services for our customers, managing their experience from end to end, so they may continue enjoying more important parts of life: family and friends, leaving the rest to us.”

WellRive companies prioritize the excitement of new beginnings over the stress of moving, providing highly customized and stress-free experiences. By leveraging CRI’s expertise, WellRive is prepared to handle the challenges of Peak 65 and the influx of retirees over the next 10 years.

“Observing the transformation Peak 65 will bring, WellRive will lead the industry by delivering flawless transitions and unmatched personalized care,” states Anthony Horton, CEO of CRI. “It’s a testament to the level of excellence we continually pursue at CRI, and WellRive further elevates this commitment by enabling aging adults to embark on their new journeys with the utmost convenience and peace of mind.”

For more information, please visit http://www.wellrive.com.

About WellRive:
WellRive, a division of Corporate Relocation International, is a Full-Service Move Management Company dedicated to providing exceptional relocation solutions for the 55+ community. With a comprehensive range of services, WellRive ensures a seamless and stress-free transition to the next chapter of life.

Media Contact

Mike Petchenik, Liger Partners, (404) 345-1358, [email protected], https://ligerpartners.com/

SOURCE Corporate Relocation International

In light of newly announced IRS contribution limits, Health-E Commerce® shares five little-known facts about flexible spending accounts


FSA Store® sheds light on 2024 Internal Revenue Service contribution limits for flexible spending accounts and what consumers need to know

DALLAS, Nov. 10, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — More than 35 million Americans who are enrolled in flexible spending accounts (FSAs) will be able to contribute more money to these tax-advantaged accounts in 2024, based on the newly announced contribution limit from the Internal Revenue Service. In light of the increase, Health-E Commerce®, parent brand to FSAstore.com® – the first and leading online store dedicated to exclusively selling FSA-eligible products – is educating account holders on the following little-known facts that will help them make the most of their FSA in the coming year.

An FSA is a tax-advantaged account that consumers can enroll in through their employer-sponsored benefits program. Employees can contribute to the account through pre-tax payroll contributions and any employer contributions are also tax favored. This reduces the employee’s taxable income and helps them pay for a wide range of expenses. FSA-eligible expenses are determined by the Internal Revenue Service.

About the new limit: According to the IRS (https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/rp-23-34.pdf), the limit for FSA employee contributions will increase from $3,050 in 2023 to $3,200 in 2024. In addition to the contribution limit increase, the amount of unused FSA funds that an employer may allow employees to carry over from year to year will also increase. The carryover amount will increase from $610 in 2023 to $640 in 2024. The FSA carryover feature is optional for employers. Account holders should check with their benefits department to confirm if this option is available to them.

Five surprising facts about FSA contributions:

  1.  The $3,200 limit for 2024 applies on a per FSA account basis. If an account holder switches jobs mid-year, they can elect to contribute the full amount at their new employer, regardless of the amount of claims they had incurred at their previous employer.
  2. There is only one FSA contribution limit that applies to both individuals and families. This differs from a health savings account (HSA) where there is a separate limit for health plan participation as an individual vs. two-person/family.
  3. If two spouses each have access to their own FSA through their respective employers, they could each elect the maximum of $3,200 for a combined household set-aside of $6,400.
  4. The FSA limit does not include the optional carryover amount. For example, if an employer offers a carryover of up to $610 in 2023, an account holder could have a balance of $3,810 in their FSA in 2024 ($3,200 2024 FSA max + $610 2023 FSA carryover).
  5. The FSA contribution limits apply only to pre-tax employee contributions. Employers may contribute to an employee’s FSA in excess of the employee contribution maximum.

“By increasing the FSA contribution limits to keep pace with inflation, the Internal Revenue Service is enabling individuals and families to help protect their health, wellness, and financial wellbeing as prices continue to increase in all aspects of our lives,” said Rachel Rouleau, chief compliance officer for Health-E Commerce. “By sharing these little-known facts about FSA contributions, we hope to educate consumers about the benefits of enrolling in an FSA and the potential for these accounts to help them save money and reduce their taxable income.”

FSA Store offers a free, comprehensive eligibility list that makes it easy to map spending for the remainder of the year to ensure consumers don’t leave any tax-free funds on the table due to a missed deadline. This list can be used to personalize the FSA experience so FSA users can shop for everyday healthcare needs by product, category, lifestyle, or health condition.

To learn more about FSAs, visit the FSA Learning Center at FSAstore.com.

Media contact: Barbara Tabor, [email protected], 651-230-9192
About Health-E Commerce
Health-E Commerce is the parent brand to FSA Store, HSA Store and WellDeservedHealth, a family of online stores that serve the 70+ million consumers enrolled in pre-tax health and wellness accounts. The company also created Caring Mill, a popular private-label line of health products that benefits Children’s Health Fund and enables customers to make a donation with each purchase. Since 2010, the Health-E Commerce brands have led the direct-to-consumer e-commerce market for exclusively pre-tax health and wellness benefits. Health-E Commerce plays an essential role in expanding product eligibility for important new categories within the list of eligible medical expenses.

Media Contact

Barbara Tabor, Health-E Commerce, 651-230-9192, [email protected], https://www.health-ecommerce.com/

SOURCE Health-E Commerce