All posts by imreal

California Legislature Unanimously Passes AB 782 to Preserve Medication Flavoring in Local Pharmacies


Over 3,000 community pharmacies in California and nearly 40,000 pharmacies nationwide provide medication flavoring, an established practice that significantly enhances young individuals’ palatability and acceptance of medicines. AB 782 reinforces an approach sustained safely for the past 27 years, with no reported events of patient harm or fatalities associated with medication flavoring. Present-day flavoring agents uphold the highest safety standards, undergoing independent testing and manufacturing in FDA-registered facilities while maintaining chemical inertness.

“Letting children choose the taste of their medicine is one of the most effective strategies pharmacists have to improve pediatric adherence. Flavoring has helped millions of California’s children take their medicine over the past two decades, easing the stress of sick-time for kids and their parents,” said Stuart Amos, CEO of FLAVORx. “AB 782 protects access to this valuable pharmacy service so better tasting medicine remains available to all kids in California.”

AB 782 stands firmly in alignment with the prevailing norms across the United States, where 98 percent of children aged between 0 to 11 reside in states that do not categorize medication flavoring as compounding, showcasing the widespread acceptance and reliance on this practice for better health outcomes. Specifically in California, this encompasses 6 million children, safeguarding their health and welfare through more manageable medication regimens.

The legislation carries forward the sensible and predominant stance maintained by 49 out of 50 states, which rightly exempt medication flavoring from being regulated as compounding to rigorous and unecessary new standards.

As we await Governor Newsom’s signature on this decisive piece of legislation, we express our profound gratitude towards the parents, pharmacists, and legislators who have championed the cause, recognizing the imperative role of medication flavoring in ensuring the well-being of California’s younger generation.

Media Contact
Chad Baker, FLAVORx, 1 4432767818, [email protected], www.flavorx.com

SOURCE FLAVORx

Author Pens Book One in Exciting New Book Series: Birth Date Bible Verses


When asked what inspired the author to write this book, Hargraves said, “As I was listening to one of my favorite radio stations, K-Love 106.9, a listener called in and spoke with the radio host about her birthday and that her birth date was 3/16. The conversation proceeded to talk about John 3:16 – ‘For God so loved the world, that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life.’ I then had a deep desire to write a book with ‘birth-date Bible verses,’ to encourage readers to read more of the Bible, but most importantly, to want to read more, and have that desire to get closer to God.”

Imogen Hargraves grew up in upstate New York and now resides in beautiful Colorado with her husband. She served 23 years in the Army and their two boys are now serving in the military as well, one in the Army and the other in the Navy. Their daughter is currently starting her life as a young adult. Hargraves is currently studying to attain a bachelor’s degree in biblical studies in addition to gaining valuable knowledge in Christ at the wonderful church she attends. Since finding Valley Christian Church, her walk with God has changed dramatically and enjoys learning more and more about God each day. Hargraves enjoys reading, writing, going to the movies and playing Animal Crossing.

Xulon Press, a division of Salem Media Group, is the world’s largest Christian self-publisher, with more than 15,000 titles published to date. Birth Date Bible Verses: Book 1 – 1st of the Month Birth Dates is available online through xulonpress.com/bookstore, amazon.com, and barnesandnoble.com.

Media Contact
Imogen Hargraves, Salem Author Services, (719) 258-7112, [email protected]

SOURCE Xulon Press

Mural’s Chief Evangelist Shares Expert Tips for Successful Visual Collaboration [DesignRush Spotlight]


85% of workers who use collaboration tools are happier than those who don’t. DesignRush interviewed Mural’s chief evangelist to uncover the secrets of successful visual collaboration.

MIAMI, Oct. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — According to Wrike, 85% of employees with access to collaboration tools report higher workplace satisfaction compared to those without. A corresponding study by the University of Warwick reveals that happy employees exhibit a 12% boost in productivity.

In the latest interview, DesignRush sat down with Jim Kalbach, chief evangelist at Mural, to gain unique strategies for breaking down barriers in virtual collaboration and understand how Mural empowers visual work.

“The point is to take a moment with each interaction to connect and get present to each other. Doing that regularly actually does more for team building than infrequent offsites or retreats,” Kalbach says.

Highlights of our interview with Kalbach include:

  • Key features to look for in a visual collaboration tool
  • Tips for navigating challenges in visual collaboration
  • The secret to effectively breaking the ice during meetings
  • How Mural’s tool accommodates different workplace structures
  • Top features that make Mural stand out

The past week was also marked by two other interviews on DesignRush:

About DesignRush:

DesignRush.com is a media platform and B2B marketplace connecting businesses with agencies through expert reviews and agency ranking lists, awards, knowledge resources, and personalized agency recommendations for vetted projects.

Notes for Editors:

  • If you would like to feature DesignRush interviews, please include a linked credit to https://spotlight.designrush.com/ as the source.
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Media Contact

Rizelle Leano, DesignRush, 8008565417, [email protected], https://www.designrush.com/

SOURCE DesignRush

Atlanta Art Week Partners to Present Heart of the Arts Studio Residency Bus Tour


Dewberry Foundation, Midtown Alliance, and Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA) are pleased to announce the Heart of the Arts Studio Residency Bus Tour, taking place during Atlanta Art Week on Wednesday, October 4th, 2023. The Heart of the Arts Studio Residency Bus Tour will take place from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM.

ATLANTA, Oct. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Dewberry Foundation, Midtown Alliance, and Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA) are pleased to announce the Heart of the Arts Studio Residency Bus Tour, taking place during Atlanta Art Week on Wednesday, October 4th, 2023. The bus tour will offer participants a behind-the-scenes look at the studios of seven artists participating in the Heart of the Arts Residency Program, a new initiative that provides artists with space and opportunities to work in Midtown Atlanta.

The Heart of the Arts Residency Program is a collaborative effort between Midtown Alliance and its partners to create a more vibrant and inclusive arts community in Midtown. The program provides artists with studio space, mentorship, and other resources to support their creative practice. The Heart of the Arts Studio Residency Bus Tour is an opportunity for the public to meet the artists in the program and learn more about their work.

“We are thrilled to partner with Midtown Alliance and MODA – all powerhouses in our beloved Midtown community – to present the Heart of the Arts Studio Residency Bus Tour during the second annual Atlanta Art Week,” said Jaimie Dewberry, Director of the Dewberry Foundation. “This is a unique opportunity for the public to meet the artists in the program and learn about their work in a more intimate setting. We hope that this event will help to raise awareness of the Heart of the Arts Residency Program and its important role in supporting Atlanta’s arts community.

“MODA is so excited to join forces with Dewberry Foundation and Midtown Alliance to connect art lovers from near and far to Midtown’s incredible artists in residence, whose work demonstrates the power of art and design to enrich our communities and make Atlanta a more vibrant place,” said Mary Catherine Kelly, MODA’s Programs Manager.

The Heart of the Arts Studio Residency Bus Tour will take place on Wednesday, October 4th, 2023 from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM. The bus will depart from Peachtree Pointe, 1545 Peachtree St NE, and visit the studios of the following artists:

  • Demetri Burke
  • Masud Olufani
  • Darya Fard
  • Deanna Sirlin
  • Sayma Hossain
  • Kristan Woolford
  • Kelly Taylor Mitchell

Tickets for the Heart of the Arts Studio Residency Bus Tour are $15 and can be purchased online at https://moda.gatherlearning.com/events/heart-of-the-arts-a-midtown-studio-crawl Space is limited, so advance purchase is recommended.

For more information about the Heart of the Arts Studio Residency Program and the Heart of the Arts Studio Residency Bus Tour, please visit https://www.midtownatl.com/about/programs-and-projects/capital-improvements/heart-of-the-arts/hota-artist-residency-program

About Atlanta Art Week – Atlanta Art Week is a new initiative that celebrates the visual arts in one of the fastest growing art hubs in the United States. Founded by Art Advisor Kendra Walker, AAW aims to create a dynamic environment that brings together galleries, artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts to promote cultural exchange, education, economic development, and appreciation of the arts. Our goal is to highlight contemporary art, provide opportunities for growth and recognition, and promote Atlanta on a national level.

About Dewberry Foundation – Established in 2002 by John Dewberry, the Dewberry Foundation is dedicated to supporting youth, art, and community. We believe that all young people deserve the opportunity to reach their magnanimitas, greatness in spirit and that arts and culture play a vital role in building vibrant communities. The Dewberry Foundation is now under the leadership of Jaimie Brown Dewberry.

About Midtown Alliance – Midtown Alliance is a non-profit membership organization and a coalition of leading business and community leaders – united in our commitment to Midtown as a premier destination for commerce, culture, education and living. Guided by a visionary master plan – Blueprint Midtown – and in partnership with the Midtown Improvement District, our mission is to improve and sustain the quality of life for those who live, work and play here. Midtown Alliance accomplishes this goal through a comprehensive approach to planning and development that includes initiatives to enhance public safety, improve the physical environment, and strengthen the urban amenities which give the area its unique character.

About MODA – Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA) is the only museum in the Southeast dedicated exclusively to the study and celebration of all things design. It seeks to address contemporary interests and issues through its exhibitions and programming, empowering visitors to think like designers as they face current and future challenges. As one of the city’s most important arts organizations, MODA’s exhibits focus on all areas of design, including architecture, graphic design, and more. Its current exhibition, Level Up: Pixels, Play, & Progress, provides a lens into how video games can help to strengthen players’ empathy, ultimately making the world a better place.

Media Contact

Jaimie Brown Dewberry, Dewberry Foundation, 1 706-217-8462, [email protected]

SOURCE Dewberry Foundation

18-Year-Old Florida Woman with Autism Receives Exclusive Invite to Race in the 2023 VinFast IRONMAN World Championship Triathlon in Kona, HI


She draws inspiration from the late Kobe Bryant (she named her bike, a 2023 Ventum One sent by sponsor Ventum, after him), and this quote by Louis Zamperini from the movie Unbroken, “One minute of pain is worth a lifetime of glory.”

The challenges and nuances that a typical athlete may face during training and racing are elevated for the neurodivergent community – finding the right fuel to work with food sensitivities, time management, not being able to process things as quickly, a panic attack because you can’t see to the bottom of where the open water swim is, the list can go on. These encounters can be debilitating to a person with autism.

As a middle child, Bunn’s parents helped her adapt to life with an invisible disability while ensuring all three daughters were able to pursue their unique talents. For Adrienne, that meant athletics. She’ll race with her coach and guide Doug Guthrie in the Physically Challenged/Intellectual Disability (PC/ID) Open division that was launched in February.

Guthrie, an accomplished IRONMAN athlete himself with 25 IRONMAN finishes and qualifying for Kona six times, is an important pillar for Bunn. He motivates her and provides support in guiding her through challenging moments that can be attributed to her autism – at the start when there are too many people, when the water is too dark, and she can’t see the bottom, and other unknowns during a race. Over the course of 16 weeks, the pair have trained together for up to 15 hours per week, establishing a bond and learning to trust each other’s capabilities, which will be valuable come race day.

“After racing the IRONMAN 70.3 event in Ohio, and turning 18 just days prior, I knew this was my year for the VinFast IRONMAN World Championship race in Kona. My family and I called KultureCity co-founder Michele Kong who spearheaded submitting my IRONMAN 70.3 Ohio results and petitioned for an entry into the championship. I’m beyond grateful for the support KultureCity and Bened Life have provided me thus far and am looking forward to showing others with invisible disabilities that the nevers are possible,” says Adrienne Bunn, a Special Olympic, and IRONMAN Foundation Ambassador athlete, and triathlete with autism competing to be youngest known female finisher with autism at the 2023 VinFast IRONMAN World Championship triathlon in Kona, HI.

“Adrienne is a remarkable young woman who is going to continue to do extraordinary things. When the Bunn family reached out to pursue her competing in the 2023 VinFast IRONMAN World Championship race, we immediately called for all hands-on deck to get Adrienne to Kona. We are so proud of not only the physical preparation she is doing, but also her very important ‘A’ goal of inspiring others with invisible disabilities to Make the Nevers Possible,” said Michele Kong, co-founder of KultureCity.

“It has been an honor to get to know and sponsor Adrienne for this very special initiative. Since day one, we’ve been dedicated to creating an inclusive and welcoming space for the neurodivergent community to thrive and pursue activities they may have been told they couldn’t. As a company that is on the leading edge of microbiome and health science innovation, producing specialized, patented probiotics that influence brain health, especially for those with autism, we know how important it was to Adrienne to have our support,” says Sunny Cash, Community Director at Bened Life.

For more information on Adrienne Bunn, please visit https://www.kulturecity.org/f/adriennes-journey-to-hawaii/?wpf934_6=adriennes-journey-to-hawaii.

For more information on KultureCity, please visit www.KultureCity.org.

For more information on Bened Life, please visit www.BenedLife.com.

For more information on IRONMAN, please visit www.ironman.com/im-world-championship-2023.

Media Contact

Lynette Pettinicchi, Bened Life, 1 917-993-0492, [email protected], www.BenedLife.com 

SOURCE Bened Life

Mindray to Reveal First of its Kind Wireless Handheld Ultrasound System Live at ACEP23 Scientific Assembly


Mindray’s ACEP23 Assembly will highlight its comprehensive solutions for Emergency Medicine, including two headliners, the TE X Ultrasound Machine and the BeneVision N1 Monitor/Module. The touch-based TE X Ultrasound System is powered by Mindray’s proprietary software-based beamformer Zone Sonography Technology+ (ZST+) and offers the most robust suite of AI-powered Smart Tools to help expedite clinical decision-making and achieve reproducibility between exams. Mindray will feature live scanning with the TE X and TE Air Ultrasound in their booth throughout the show. The BeneVision N1 serves as a comprehensive multi-parameter module for the N-Series Patient Monitoring Platform, a powerful transport monitor, and a versatile bedside monitor – all in one. The N1’s patient-centric design mobilizes patients, supporting improved patient transition to and from the Emergency Department providing access to real-time patient data, where and when needed.

Mindray understands the need for clinicians to deliver focused and efficient patient care in the emergency medicine space. With a portfolio that offers leading-edge technology and everyday applications to meet the diverse demands of evolving patient populations, Mindray continues to push the boundaries of what is possible. These innovative, accessible solutions offer sophisticated tools and technologies that empower clinicians to streamline workflow, minimize the risk of infection, and provide the highest quality of care now and in the future.

About Mindray
Mindray is a leading developer, manufacturer, and supplier of medical device solutions and technologies used in healthcare facilities around the globe. We believe we can change lives by making the most advanced healthcare technology attainable for all. We do this by empowering healthcare professionals through innovative, high-value solutions that help create the next generation of life-saving tools across three primary business segments: medical imaging, patient monitoring and life support, and in-vitro diagnostics. Mindray maintains its global headquarters in Shenzhen, China; Mindray North America is headquartered in Mahwah, New Jersey. Our Ultrasound Innovation Center is located in Silicon Valley, California, with additional facilities in major international markets around the world. For more information, please visit Mindray.com

Media Contact

Sondra Kaufman, Mindray North America, 201.995.8047, [email protected], https://www.mindraynorthamerica.com/

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SOURCE Mindray North America



Tom Michel Honored as the 2023 Recipient of the Norman G. Levine Distinguished Service Award by NAIFA-California


President Holz was a keynote speaker at the e3 Conference where the award was announced and congratulated Michel with his closing remarks of his keynote speech. “Tom Michel has been a driving force within NAIFA-California and NAIFA Nation, embodying the principles of excellence, integrity, and service that are at the core of our organization,” said Bryon Holz, LUTCF, CLU, ChFC, CASL, LACP, NAIFA National President and loyal member since 1987. “His contributions have left an indelible mark on our association, and we are thrilled to see NAIFA-California honor him with the Norman G. Levine Distinguished Service Award.”

Throughout his career, Tom Michel has consistently demonstrated leadership in advocacy and industry education. He has been a staunch advocate for both clients and colleagues, working diligently to promote and protect the interests of insurance and financial advisors in California. His commitment to professional development has enriched the knowledge and skills of countless individuals within the industry. Michel served as the NAIFA-California President in 2013-2014 and previously as the NAIFA-Los Angeles Chapter President in 2007-2008 . Following his leadership at the state level, Tom Michel was elected to the NAIFA National Board of Trustees and began serving in 2015. He went on to be elected to serve in the leadership chairs of the Executive Committee becoming NAIFA National President in 2021. He currently serves as the Chair of the NAIFA National Governance Committee and Co-Chair of NAIFA’s Industry Leadership Board.

The Norman G. Levine Distinguished Service Award is a testament to Tom Michel’s exceptional contributions to NAIFA-California and his dedication to elevating the insurance and financial services profession. This prestigious award recognizes his outstanding leadership, mentorship, and commitment to the betterment of the industry. The award was created in 1992 as NAIFA-California’s highest honor and was renamed to the Norman G. Levine Distinguished Service Award after his passing to honor his legacy.

ABOUT NAIFA: The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors is the preeminent membership association for the multigenerational community of financial professionals in the United States. NAIFA members subscribe to a strong Code of Ethics and represent a full spectrum of financial services practice specialties. They work with families and businesses to help Americans improve financial literacy and achieve financial security. NAIFA provides producers a national community for advocacy, education, and networking along with awards, publications, and leadership opportunities to allow NAIFA members to differentiate themselves in the marketplace. NAIFA connects with members in 267 different local areas between State Chapters, Local Chapters, and Local Affiliates. NAIFA members in every congressional district advocate on behalf of producers and consumers at the state, interstate, and federal levels.

Media Contact

Suzanne Carawan, NAIFA, 703.770.8402, [email protected], www.naifa.org

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SOURCE NAIFA



Great Hearts Arizona Graduates Boast SAT Scores 218 Points Above National Average


Great Hearts Arizona Graduates Boast SAT Scores 218 Points Above National Average

PHOENIX, Oct. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — The numbers are in, and Great Hearts Academies, a nonprofit network of tuition-free public charter schools in Arizona and Texas, is excited to announce that its May 2023 graduating class of seniors in Arizona were awarded more than $50.9 million in merit-based scholarships. Ninety-six percent of the 579 graduates went on to immediately attend college.

“Our seniors strive for excellence every year and the class of 2023 is no different,” said Brandon Crowe, Superintendent of Great Hearts Arizona. “As we watch these young adults make their way on to the next step, we couldn’t be prouder of their success.”

Great Hearts Arizona students surpassed the national averages with an average ACT score of 24 and SAT average score of 1268 In total, 75% of Great Hearts Arizona students received merit-based scholarships, 49% will move forward in the STEM field, 21 students were named National Scholars, and eight students were National Merit Finalists.

Great Hearts is a nonprofit network of tuition-free public charter schools dedicated to improving education nationwide through classical preparatory K-12 academies. Great Hearts Academies has no entry or testing requirements to enroll. The schools accept any student who applies as long as a seat is available. More information can be found at greatheartsamerica.org. 

About Great Hearts

Great Hearts is a nonprofit network of tuition-free public charter schools dedicated to improving education nationwide through classical preparatory K-12 academies. As the largest provider of liberal arts classical education campuses in the country, Great Hearts Academies serve more than 22,000 students at 40 tuition-free public charter schools in greater Phoenix, Ariz., Texas, and recently Baton Rouge, LA. With waitlists that typically exceed enrollment, Great Hearts provides a robust liberal arts curriculum incorporating advanced math and science, a focus on the arts and foreign language, and a range of extra-curricular activities and athletics. Learn more at www.greatheartsamerica.org.

Media Contact

Liz Renninger, Evolve PR and Marketing, 1 480-862-4765, [email protected], Evolveprandmarketing.com

SOURCE Great Hearts Academies

Parvizi Surgical Innovation Invests in Implanted Sensor Technologies to Track Infection and Fracture Healing


Dr. Javad Parvizi, MD, the Founder of PSI and a globally recognized orthopedic surgeon specializing in orthopedic infections management, expressed his enthusiasm for Aravis’ technology: “Infections in a prosthetic joint can significantly affect patients’ quality of life. Currently, joint fluid aspirations are the common method for infection detection, but having a sensor read through standard X-ray imaging would offer a faster, less painful, cost-effective, and lower-risk alternative.”

The X-VIS technology was conceived by three Aravis co-founders: Dr. Caleb Behrend, a Spine Surgeon at OrthoArizona, Dr. Jeffrey Anker, a Chemistry Professor at Clemson University, and Dr. John DesJardins, a Bioengineering Professor at Clemson University. The team has received funding from organizations such as the National Institutes of Health Small Business Innovative Research Grants, the South Carolina Research Authority, South Carolina Bio, and the Sipro Institute.

Dr. Behrend emphasizes the challenge of treating infections that develop on the surfaces of implanted medical devices, which often form antibiotic-resistant biofilms and evade the immune system. He highlights the X-VIS technology as a non-invasive method to detect, monitor, and eliminate infections using routine X-ray scans.

The timeline for introducing X-VIS to the U.S. market is estimated at approximately three to five years. Beyond prosthetic hips, this technology is envisioned to be applicable to screws, plates, spine devices, and other implantable solutions. Aravis is actively seeking commercialization partners.

Alan Miller the President of Parvizi Surgical Innovation posits, “Dr. Parvizi’s expertise in orthopedics, garnered from his tenure at Mayo Clinic and at the Rothman Institute in Philadelphia, will be critical for the success of this project. At PSI, we have assembled a team of nearly 100 surgeons and allied specialists to consult, assess, and aid in the development of innovative technologies like Aravis. We believe our future is promising together.”

About Parvizi Surgical Innovation, LLC

Parvizi Surgical Innovation, LLC was established with a core commitment to leverage novel and innovative technologies to enhance patient outcomes, positively impacting both families and healthcare providers. The firm upholds the values that have driven an entire industry—a commitment by dedicated physicians to the care and well-being of their patients. The company’s mission is to continue along these lines by developing groundbreaking technologies that address various medical conditions and challenges that have persisted and strained our healthcare system. Through an extensive and diversified network of professionals, PSI gains access to leading medical technologies that address a wide range of treatments.

Parvizi Surgical Innovation, LLC is actively supporting its affiliate companies in research studies, product development, manufacturing, product testing, regulatory activities, clinical trials, and intellectual property protection (patents, trademarks, and copyrights) for pre-clinical and clinical use. For more information, visit www.parvizisurgical.com.

Media Contact

Alan Miller, Parvizi Surgical Innovation LLC, 1 215-801-1590, [email protected], www.parvizisurgical.com

SOURCE Parvizi Surgical Innovation LLC