All posts by imreal

Pregnantish Announces New “Real Talk” Market Research Report with Feedback from Over 800 Fertility Treatment Patients


Pregnantish, the first global media platform dedicated to helping people navigate their fertility, announces its recently concluded 2023 syndicated study – “Real Talk: Bridging the Gap Between Patients and Providers” – examining pre- and post-pandemic attitudes and behaviors. 821 respondents accessed the 49 question survey and 622 respondents completed it.

NEW YORK, Oct. 12, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Pregnantish, the first global media platform dedicated to helping people navigate their fertility, announces its recently concluded 2023 syndicated study – “Real Talk: Bridging the Gap Between Patients and Providers” – available for purchase now. In addition, the company announces the launch of Pregnantish Insights, a division of pregnantish that engages its audience of fertility-focused consumers, patients and providers in research to reveal insights about their individual fertility experiences and the factors that impact them. Pregnantish Insights is comprised of a team of seasoned market researchers and fertility experts who leverage the company’s deep trusted relationships with today’s fertility treatment patients to provide insights that benefit the entire fertility care spectrum.

“The goal with our research is to help to bridge the gap between patients and providers to help them achieve their shared goal: making a healthy baby.” says pregnantish Founder and relationships author, Andrea Syrtash.

In its Real Talk report announced today, pregnantish earned the trust of over 800 respondents who participated in a nearly 50 question survey. The report delves into the biggest industry disruptors over the past five years, examining pre- and post-pandemic shifts in patient behavior, and how patient-provider relationships were affected. The quantitative study looks at the depth and breadth of issues faced by fertility patients and providers as well as the timing and impact of industry factors, trends, technologies and practices, making its findings current and relevant.

“After our first “Real Talk” syndicated study in 2019, when we heard from over 1000 diverse fertility treatment patients, we really wanted to hear from our audience on the opportunities and challenges they’ve experienced in the last 5 years since the world – and the world of ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology) – has changed. We were excited that once again, a large number of people responded to our call and that we heard from so many current fertility treatment patients,” says Syrtash. “We know that this is historically a difficult audience to reach and their participation reflects not only a trust in us, which we very much appreciate, but patients’ desire to get their feedback to providers and to positively improve the fertility experience for future patients.”

The Real Talk 2023 pregnantish study was conducted in late summer of 2023, with 821 respondents accessing the survey and 622 respondents completing it. Key findings from the report include:

  • Patients Wish They’d Started Fertility Assistance Sooner: Over a third (37%) of patients in the pregnantish study who were surveyed noted that their top regret was not starting the fertility assistance process sooner.
  • Fertility Patients Trust Social Media Most: Social media is the #1 trusted primary information source for patients seeking guidance about fertility assistance. Online support groups and forums are trusted 2 times as much as the next highest mentioned information source – more than friends, family, partners, doctors, and government health agencies.
  • Mixed Trust in Artificial Intelligence (AI): Despite the flurry of attention around AI, there is a wariness surrounding its use in labs: 28% of patients surveyed by pregnantish are unclear what AI is or how it can help, indicating that while some patients are excited about the technological innovation, a number of people remain unclear about the use of AI as a tool.

“Today’s fertility patient is excited by all the innovation they see in the fertility industry but is still as concerned about a breakdown in relationships as they were when we first surveyed them in 2019,” notes Syrtash. “This concern has grown as the industry has grown and our goal with this research is to better understand each other as we build families together.”

Pregnantish’s 2023 Real Talk study includes specific data on other key findings, such as:

  • The top four responses to the question of what patients wished they’d done differently all relate to a perception of time and a wish to have started fertility assistance sooner.
  • There is a clear and specific point in time (“the cliff”) in a patient’s journey where their preferences and attitudes shift significantly.
  • How patients view telehealth for consultations and appointments in a post-pandemic Zoom-focused world

The broader scope of the report explores findings in areas including:

  • Patient perceptions of fertility industry + best practices along patient/provider journey
  • Perspectives of trends & insights from fertility industry experts
  • Motivations for switching providers
  • Primary sources of fertility information
  • Obstacles to fertility treatment
  • Financing preferences
  • Pre- / post-pandemic consultation preferences
  • Remote options and telehealth
  • At-home tracking and testing
  • Clinic lab feedback & preferences
  • Patient wishlists
  • Attitudes toward A.I. in the lab
  • Patient attitudes regarding Third Party Reproduction
  • Fertility preservation and more…

About Pregnantish Inc.

Pregnantish, a healthcare media company, launched in early 2017 as the first media platform dedicated to elevating the conversation about the process of getting pregnant with the help of reproductive science and technology. Today, a diverse cross-section of people come to pregnantish to find the content, support, community and events they need to travel their own fertility journey. Pregnantish founder, Andrea Syrtash, is a nationally recognized relationship & sexual health expert and a well-trusted fertility advocate who is uniquely positioned to understand the relationship between fertility patients and the products and services they seek.

Pregnantish Insights is a division of pregnantish, Inc. that provides qualitative and quantitative information and analysis on fertility industry trends, offering a variety of syndicated, confidential, proprietary and custom reports and consulting services. For more information on Pregnantish Insights or its products/services, please visit www.pregnantish.com/insights, or contact Carolyn Kossow or Emily Bullers at pregnantish via email at [email protected]. More information about pregnantish is available on its Web page at http://www.pregnantish.com

Media Contact

pregnantish, Pregnantish Insights, 1 7329557019, [email protected], www.pregnantish.com/insights

SOURCE Pregnantish Insights

A Journey Through Armenian Wine Culture


This unique club showcases the elegance and diversity of Armenian still and sparkling wines – produced with local indigenous varieties such as the majestic red Areni or elegant white Voskehat – allowing members to enjoy carefully curated selections, at home or beyond.

Shipped three times per year, it offers three distinct membership levels, each named in homage to the Armenian language:

  • Pokr: meaning “small”, this package, inspired by inspired by the smaller peak of Mount Ararat – Pokr Masis – offers an assortment of 4 bottles for $120/shipment with 10% off.
  • Mets: meaning “large”, this package, inspired by inspired by the larger peak of Mount Ararat – Mets Masis – offers an expansive 6 bottles, at $160/shipment with 15% off.
  • Amenamets – meaning “biggest”, represents Mt. Ararat, the symbol of Armenia, and the landing point of Noah’s Ark. It is the most evocative visual feature of Armenia’s rich landscape. This offers a deliciously comprehensive 12 bottle journey through the finest Armenian wines. $280/shipment, with 25% off.

Why Join the Storica Wine Club?

  • Discover Armenia’s Unique Expression: Explore exceptional wines from indigenous grape varieties grown on intense, high-elevation terroirs.
  • Curated Selections: Each shipment is meticulously arranged to offer a diverse and delightful tasting experience. Alternatively, members can curate their own selection.
  • Exclusive Benefits: Members enjoy exclusive access to limited-edition wines, discounts on Storica products, and invitations to special in-person and virtual events.
  • Educational Resources: Enhance wine knowledge with informative tasting notes, pairing suggestions, and stories about Armenian winemaking heritage.

Join Storica as they embark on the renaissance of Armenia’s ancient, beautiful wine producing culture. Sip the spirit of Armenia in every bottle! Visit https://www.storicawines.com/club-storica/

About Storica

Storica Wines is an Armenian wine import company that features producers leading Armenia’s wine renaissance and celebrating its rich winemaking heritage. Our wines feature indigenous grapes that have been grown in these soils for over 6,000 years. They mirror our point of view and the country itself: full of life and resiliency.

Media Contact
Jennifer OFlanagan, FeastPR, 1 9176587641, [email protected], www.feastpr.com

SOURCE Storica Wines

AWWA, NRWA renew call for collaborative approach after EPA withdraws cybersecurity rule


In addition to concerns about the legal process and legality of the rule, the water associations expressed concerns that the rule would create additional cybersecurity vulnerabilities for utilities, as sanitary surveys required in the rule have public notification requirements. Finally, the rule would have required cybersecurity reviews by state regulatory agencies that lack expertise and resources for cybersecurity oversight. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit granted a stay on July 12, two months before EPA withdrew the rule.

“AWWA is pleased that EPA has decided to withdraw its cybersecurity rule,” said AWWA CEO David LaFrance. “We also recognize that cyber threats in the water sector are real and growing, and we cannot let our guard down for even a moment. Strong oversight of cybersecurity in the water sector remains critical. We urge U.S. Congress and EPA to support a co-regulatory model that would engage utilities in developing cybersecurity requirements with oversight from EPA.”

“This is a major announcement for rural water and wastewater systems as EPA’s decision to rescind the Cybersecurity Rule is released,” said NRWA CEO Matt Holmes. “NRWA commends EPA for making the right call as we understand this was not taken lightly and involved much debate. Cybersecurity remains an important issue for our sector, and we are eager to collaborate with EPA in the future to address cybersecurity in the water industry.”

Together AWWA and NRWA represent community water systems of all sizes and have been actively involved in advocating for solutions to address cybersecurity while keeping their members’ perspectives in mind. This is the first time they have partnered together at this scale on national policy.

AWWA first formally endorsed a co-regulatory approach in October 2021 and testified about it before the U.S. House Committee on Homeland Security in 2022. The new governance framework would build on a similar process in the electric sector, maintain EPA oversight, ensure the engagement of water sector experts and protect sensitive information. It would also incorporate the public-private collaboration called for in the recent National Cybersecurity Strategy.

NRWA has been actively involved in the legislative arena where cybersecurity is concerned, and its grassroots advocacy has resulted in the introduction of the “Cybersecurity for Rural Water Systems Act of 2023” by Congressmen Zach Nunn (IA-R) and Don Davis (NC-D) and Congresswomen Angie Craig (MN-D), and Abigail Spanberger (VA-D). A key portion of the bill includes additional funding through the NRWA Circuit Rider Program to provide technical assistance to help utilities address cybersecurity.

AWWA, NRWA and other water organizations continue to strongly advocate for the implementation of cybersecurity best practices at drinking water and wastewater utilities. Several resources that AWWA has developed, in collaboration with partners, facilitate utility review of potential vulnerabilities based on the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework.

“October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a time when all water utilities are especially focused on keeping our critical infrastructure safe from those who would do us harm,” LaFrance said. “We hope today’s development is an opportunity to advance a collaborative approach that leads to a safer cybersecurity future.”

Established in 1881, the American Water Works Association is the largest nonprofit, scientific and educational association dedicated to managing and treating water, the world’s most vital resource. With approximately 50,000 members, AWWA provides solutions to improve public health, protect the environment, strengthen the economy and enhance our quality of life.

The National Rural Water Association is the largest public drinking water and sanitation utility organization representing the interests of more than 31,000 water and wastewater utilities nationwide. NRWA provides training and technical assistance through 50 affiliated State Rural Water Associations dedicated to supporting and promoting the water and wastewater professionals that serve small communities across the United States. NRWA and the State Affiliates provide training on operator certification, financial sustainability, environmental compliance, utility management and governance to over 80,000 water professionals annually in all 50 states. To learn more, visit http://www.nrwa.org.

Media Contact

Greg Kail, American Water Works Association, 303-913-0063, [email protected], www.awwa.org

Charles Stephens, National Rural Water Association, 703-229-3451, [email protected], www.nrwa.org

SOURCE American Water Works Association

The Frederick Arts Council Awards $50,000 to Local Arts Organizations


This funding opportunity has been made possible through a National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) American Rescue Plan (ARP) Grant to Local Arts Agencies (LAA) awarded to the Frederick Arts Council for sub-granting. C.A.N. Recover Grants were first released in July 2022 to support artists and arts organizations who have been impacted by the Coronavirus and needed support for their programs and arts projects. The remaining subgrants were administered in this last round of available C.A.N funding.
Artistic activities are supported to strengthen our county’s—and the nation’s—cultural infrastructure. The subgrants will help restore the local community’s cultural infrastructure, benefitting arts workers, artists, and audiences.

“We are honored to extend the C.A.N. Recover grants to local arts organizations which will continue to benefit the community as a whole” said Louise Kennelly, Executive Director of the Frederick Arts Council.

Recipients were evaluated by a dedicated grants committee, which includes community representatives. The first disbursement of C.A.N. grants were to both individual artists and arts organizations in July of 2022.

For more information about FAC’s grants visit: https://frederickartscouncil.org/what-we-do/grants-scholarships/community-arts-development-grants/.

About the Frederick Arts Council
The Frederick Arts Council invests in a vibrant and cohesive arts community for the people of Frederick County. The organization fosters an environment where the arts flourish in the community through grants and scholarships, arts advocacy, and links to essential resources. FAC is responsible for large-scale programming such as the Frederick Festival of the Arts, Sky Stage, FAC Art Center, Artist Studios, Frederick Public Art Initiative, Art in the Park, and Arts in Education grants. For more information about the Frederick Arts Council, visit http://www.frederickartscouncil.org.

Media Contact
Gabriella Smith, Frederick Arts Council, 301.662.4190, [email protected], www.frederickartscouncil.org

SOURCE Frederick Arts Council

ISC-CX Sets New Standards in Global Customer Engagement


“Our diverse team is our strength. We value every individual’s viewpoint, regardless of nationality or background,” says Reinhold Auer, Managing Director at ISC-CX.

In a recent milestone, ISC-CX promoted several female workers to director-level positions, including Mujinga Muyombo, Marta Jakab., Lorella Graziano, and Lama al Rifai. Previously, Kasia Filbrandt was appointed as a member of the board, further emphasizing the company’s commitment to gender equality and diversity at leadership levels.

This global family at ISC-CX thrives on diversity, where Middle Eastern nationals collaborate seamlessly with counterparts from Japan, South Americans with Europeans, and Americans with colleagues from various regions. This not only reflects the potential of a multicultural workforce but also underscores ISC-CX’s commitment to a harmonious work environment.

ISC-CX invites individuals worldwide to join their journey, celebrating diversity, fostering innovation, and transforming customer experiences.

About ISC-CX: ISC-CX is a leading provider of in-store and omnichannel customer experience analysis for global retailers worldwide. With multilingual, local teams on the ground in over 120 countries, ISC-CX collects and analyzes millions of data points annually. Among ISC-CX’s esteemed clientele are renowned brands such as Shell, McDonald’s, Nespresso, and Lindt. For additional customer references and CX solutions, please visit http://www.isc-cx.com.

Media Contact
ISC-CX, 41 61 225 42 15, [email protected], www.isc-cx.co

SOURCE ISC-CX

Omnex Virtual Conference on Digitalization of Product Development, Oct 24-25, 2023


Event Overview

Omnex’s virtual conference offers a unique opportunity to gain insights and knowledge from experts in the field.

In today’s rapidly changing landscape, products are adapting to meet the ambitious 2035 deadline for an all-Electric Car future.

This event will provide deep insights into how Digitalization is driving innovation in these industries, while also providing crucial updates in Aerospace and Medical Device standards.

Event Highlights

1. Electric & Autonomous Product Development Using Digitalization & Integration of Standards

2. Digitalization of Product Development & Aerospace Standards Changes

3. Digitalization of Product Development & Medical Device Standards Changes

Why Attend?

  • Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest industry trends and standards that can significantly impact your business.
  • Networking: Connect with professionals, thought leaders, and peers from around the world.
  • In-Depth Learning: Gain practical insights and strategies that can enhance your organization’s performance and competitiveness.
  • Interactive Sessions (roundtables): Engage in sessions, discussions, and Q&A with industry experts.

This conference will have experience-based knowledge and industry networking opportunities. Reserve your spot today to gain a competitive edge in these dynamic and competitive times.

Contact us for more information

Who Should Attend?

  • Functional Safety Managers, Software Development Managers and Business Leaders from Automotive Companies including EV and AV Manufacturers
  • Engineering and Design Excellence Leads & Managers
  • Quality Leadership Team
  • C-Suites and Stakeholders Expanding into EV-AV Ecosystem
  • New Product Development Champions
  • IT Leadership & Enterprise Digitalization officers
  • Global Supplier Quality Managers and Supply Chain Leaders
  • Functional Safety Team, Software Team members, System Engineering Team
  • Embedded Software Providers and ECU Teams
  • Quality Managers, Quality Specialists
  • Engineering Teams
  • IT Teams focused on Digitalization and standardization

About Omnex:

Omnex is a provider of pioneering solutions and services within the realm of quality and business excellence. Operating worldwide, our core focus lies in delivering comprehensive training programs, software solutions, consulting, and implementation services. These areas empower organizations to improve operational efficiency, ensure regulatory compliance, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. We have extensive experience in a range of industries, encompassing automotive, aerospace, medical devices, electronics, and general manufacturing.

Media Contact

Mike Sinclair, Omnex Inc., 1 734-761-4940, [email protected], www.omnex.com?utm_source=PR&utm_medium=prweb&utm_campaign=Oct-event 

SOURCE Omnex Inc.

Dr. K.T. Zulkowski’s New Book Series “Grandma Margie’s Tales,” Inspires Children to Appreciate the Wonders of God’s Work


Dr. K.T. Zulkowski’s books not only educate children about the stories of the Bible but also instill in them a sense of wonder and gratitude for the natural world.

“Grandma Margie’s Tales” are a perfect addition to any child’s library. They spark curiosity, promote a love for nature, and nurture a deep appreciation for God’s work. Dr. Zulkowski’s books are suitable for children ages 4-8 and are an excellent resource for parents, grandparents, educators, and Sunday schools.

Dr. K.T. Zulkowski is an esteemed filmmaker, author, theologian, and community advocate with a passion for sharing biblical stories in accessible and engaging ways. She holds a PhD in Theology and has produced several films that have touched the lives of people around the world.

“Grandma Margie’s Tales” are now available in bookstores worldwide and online. For more information about Dr. K.T. Zulkowski and her other works, please visit her website at www.mzkimproductions.com

Series and Books

https://www.amazon.com

More Books

https://www.barnesandnoble.com

Mz.Kim Productions is an award-winning production company which develops and produces independent film, and original music production. Their films are designed provide life changing experiences for the viewers as they are based upon true events.

Media Contact

Dr. K.T. Zulkowski, Mz. Kim Productions, 1 4145736268, [email protected], https://www.mzkimproductions.com/

SOURCE Mz. Kim Productions

Mental Health Book Teaches Importance of Letting ‘Sh**’ Go — Literally and Figuratively


In Don’t Hold Your Sh** (also available in the kid-friendly censored alternative, Don’t Hold Your Poo-Poo), Adeniyi tells the story of Baby, who struggles with going poo-poo due to fear and anxiety.

By following Baby’s journey as she attempts to go #2, the book helps young readers struggling with “poop anxiety”. Poop anxiety, also known as stool withholding, is common among toddlers, who may resist pooping because they had a negative experience in the past.

For adult readers, Don’t Hold Your Sh** delivers important lessons about the importance of letting go of toxic or limiting ideas and behaviors to support mental health. Featuring characters from diverse backgrounds, the book also encourages empathy — because we all have problems letting go sometimes.

Don’t Hold Your Sh** and Don’t Hold Your Poo-Poo are currently available in hardcover, paperback and Kindle on Amazon and www.dontholdyoursh.com

About the Author

Sydney Adeniyi is a Nigerian-American uncle, standup comedian, actor and writer from Belleville, IL who currently resides in Los Angeles, CA. Passionate about mental health, Sydney is a Laughter on Call comedian who fosters mental wellness and connection for working professionals and memory care residents. Sydney’s unique brand of comedy encourages psychological safety, inclusion and equity.

Media Contact

Sydney Adeniyi, 1 3235464131, [email protected], http://www.dontholdyoursh.com/

SOURCE Sydney Adeniyi

Greenberg Traurig’s Martye Kendrick Selected to Houston Business Journal’s ‘Women Who Mean Business’ List


Martye Kendrick, of counsel in global law firm Greenberg Traurig, LLP’s Public Finance and Infrastructure Practice, was selected by The Houston Business Journal as a 2023 “Women Who Mean Business” honoree.

HOUSTON, Oct. 12, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Martye Kendrick, of counsel in global law firm Greenberg Traurig, LLP‘s Public Finance and Infrastructure Practice, was selected by The Houston Business Journal as a 2023 “Women Who Mean Business” honoree. Kendrick is recognized in the category of “Outstanding Leaders in Law.”

“Martye is a phenomenal attorney, trusted advisor, and dedicated member of the Houston community. Through her legal work and personal commitments, she serves as a role model for others and continuously demonstrates the importance of community involvement,” said Shari L. Heyen, senior vice president and managing shareholder of the firm’s Houston office. “Congratulations Martye and all the 2023 ‘Women Who Mean Business’ honorees.”

“I wholeheartedly believe that women are the future and that our efforts can make a difference in professions and communities for generations to come,” Kendrick said. “It is an absolutely honor to be included among the ranks of such distinguished women leaders that are making a difference in Houston.”

Earlier in 2023, Kendrick was named to Houston Woman Magazine’s annual list of Houston’s 50 Most Influential Women. She also earned recognition by The National Black Lawyers and The Best Lawyers in America.

Kendrick is a highly accomplished attorney based in the firm’s Houston office. She has deep experience handling matters relating to tax-exempt bond financings, commercial real estate transactions, structured finance, and tax. Known for being both thoughtful and decisive, she takes a collaborative and consultive approach with her clients and helps them make sound decisions to drive their businesses forward. As a strategic advisor, Kendrick cultivates and nurtures relationships with clients, peers, and partners in both the public and private sectors.

The Houston Business Journal’s 2023 “Women Who Mean Business” list recognizes 90 Houston women in leadership roles who have demonstrated excellence in their careers and community. Honorees will be recognized at an awards reception Oct. 13 and in a special section of the Oct. 13 edition of the Houston Business Journal.

About Greenberg Traurig, LLP – Texas: Texas is important to Greenberg Traurig, LLP and the firm’s history. With approximately 160 Texas lawyers in Austin, Dallas, and Houston, Greenberg Traurig has deep roots in the Texas business, legal, and governmental communities. Greenberg Traurig Texas works with clients to address their interdisciplinary legal needs across the state utilizing the firm’s global platform. The Texas attorneys are experienced in industries key to the state’s future, including: aviation, chemicals, construction, education, energy and natural resources, financial institutions, health care, hedge funds, hospitality, infrastructure, insurance, media, medical devices, pharmaceutical and biotechnology, real estate, retail, sports, technology and software, telecommunications, transportation, and video games and esports.

About Greenberg Traurig: Greenberg Traurig, LLP has more than 2650 attorneys in 47 locations in the United States, Europe and the Middle East, Latin America, and Asia. The firm is a 2022 BTI “Highly Recommended Law Firm” for superior client service and is consistently among the top firms on the Am Law Global 100 and NLJ 500. Greenberg Traurig is Mansfield Rule 6.0 Certified Plus by The Diversity Lab. The firm is recognized for powering its U.S. offices with 100% renewable energy as certified by the Center for Resource Solutions Green-e® Energy program and is a member of the U.S. EPA’s Green Power Partnership Program. The firm is known for its philanthropic giving, innovation, diversity, and pro bono. Web: http://www.gtlaw.com.

Media Contact
Alyssa Williams, Greenberg Traurig, LLP, +1 713.374.3639, [email protected], https://www.gtlaw.com/en

SOURCE Greenberg Traurig, LLP