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Legal / Law: Criminal Law

Beyond Green Showcases Their Brand Commitment with First Global Impact Report

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“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

Legal / Law: Criminal Law

Noble Research Institute Achieves Agricultural Research Organization Status

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Over the next seven years, more than 65 universities, associations and organizations as well as multiple legislators joined together to support the vital role AROs could play in infusing greater private philanthropy into public research to advance agriculture. The Internal Revenue Code section creating the ARO designation was signed into law in 2015. In 2018, Noble began the legal process of converting to an ARO. Upon completion of this process in 2023, the IRS formally recognized Noble as an ARO.

“We are grateful for this final step in our journey to be recognized as an ARO,” said Steve Rhines, president and CEO of Noble Research Institute. “It has long been our goal to help build the public agricultural research capacity in the U.S. in ways that go beyond government funding. We look forward to continued work with our partners in both the public and private sectors to further our mission of regenerating 164 million acres of U.S. grazing lands.”

AROs, in conjunction with our nation’s agricultural research universities and as a complement to government laboratories, will take their place in identifying and solving significant agricultural challenges that must be addressed to create a sustainable future.

“AROs provide public agricultural research a full complement of philanthropic tools to reach individuals and families and provide them a charitable vehicle to advance public agricultural research,” Rhines said. “And in turn, Noble is committed to adding to the 78 years we have been serving America’s farmers and ranchers with research dedicated to regenerating grasslands and restoring our nation’s invaluable soil health.”

About Noble Research Institute

Noble Research Institute is the nation’s largest independent agriculture research organization, supporting ranchers and farmers with research, education and mentorship for regenerating soil health to improve their land, livestock and livelihood. Since 1945, Noble Research Institute has been a leading, trusted resource in agricultural research and education dedicated to land stewardship. Demonstrating our ongoing commitment to regenerating our nation’s grazing lands, Noble actively manages 13,500 acres of working ranch lands to provide real-world insights and applications for farmers and ranchers.

To learn more about Noble’s agricultural research and vision for 2040, visit Noble.org.

Media Contact

Kim Leaston, Noble Research Institute, 5802235810, [email protected], https://www.noble.org/

SOURCE Noble Research Institute

Legal / Law: Criminal Law

STA Celebrates Landmark NYS Legislation Limiting Retainage for Private Commercial Projects New Law Caps Commercial Private Project Retainage at 5 Percent

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The groundbreaking law is the result of persistent, collaborative advocacy by the Empire State Subcontractors Association (ESSA), a coalition of four subcontractor associations which includes STA, and AGC New York. The new law represents a fundamental shift toward greater financial stability and equitable treatment for all involved in private construction projects within the state.

“This legislation is a game-changer for New York’s subcontractors and suppliers and will ensure fairer practices and better support the financial health of union subcontractors,” said STA Executive Director Felice Farber.

“We applaud the governor for recognizing the importance of this legislation,” added STA Legislative Committee Chair Arthur Rubinstein. “The action demonstrates the governor’s support for the subcontracting community and for the financial well-being of our state’s hard-working small businesses.”

“As more owners, both public and private, have discovered the hidden cost and relative ineffectiveness of holding large amounts of retainage, the trend in the construction industry nationwide has been toward reducing, eliminating or using alternatives to retainage. We’re very pleased New York has moved in this direction,” said Michael Misenheimer, Executive Director of Northeaster Subcontractors Association.

The signing of this legislation represents the culmination of an effort that started many years ago with a joint AGC NYS/ESSA Task Force which set out to find mutually agreeable ways to reform both the Public and Private Work Prompt Payment Laws. “It is important we make the law as workable as possible such that it minimizes risk to all parties and for our part, the General Contractor/Construction Manager,” said Joseph Hogan, Vice President, Building Services, AGC NYS.

About STA. Subcontractors Trade Association (STA) is New York’s leading Association of union subcontractors. STA is your advocate to improve and enhance your economic position in New York by protecting your interest through legislation, providing education, and offering a unique networking connection giving you the opportunity to grow your business. For more information on STA, visit: http://www.stanyc.com

Media Contact

Brianna Soloski, Sacks Communication, 702-339-9615, Bsoloski@sackscom.com

SOURCE Subcontractors Trade Association (STA)

Legal / Law: Criminal Law

Premier Outdoor Adventure Organization, Primitive Pursuits, Reintroduces Overnight Camps at the Arnot Forest

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Primitive Pursuits serves hundreds of diverse youth each year, offering unique opportunities for life skills development in natural world. Talented program leaders guide youth in outdoor immersions throughout the year while providing mentorship and helping youth forge lasting connections with their peers and the environment.

New Overnight Camp Options:

Primitive Pursuits’ summer 2024 overnight camp options will offer a week of wilderness living to campers aged 9-16. Each week campers will have the opportunity to:

Build Outdoor Living Skills

Campers will build shelters, cook meals over open fires, use and craft tools, forage edible plants, make natural containers and rope, learn to navigate and start fires primitively, among other outdoor survival skills. There will be additional opportunities to develop archery skills, team-building skills and go on night-time adventures – all under the guidance of youth development professionals who are highly skilled in these areas.

For Aspiring Archers and Bowyers

With trained archery professionals on staff, campers of all skill levels will have the chance to explore the art and etiquette of bows, arrows, and shooting. Older campers will also be able to make their own archery set by carving a long bow and making arrows with an accomplished bowyer.

For the Adventurous at Heart

Campers looking for a more challenging wilderness experience can embark on overnight excursions to deepen their outdoor living skills and knowledge. Leaders will customize these trips for an appropriate level of challenge, based on the experience of the campers.

A Mission to Foster Nature Connection:

For over two decades, Primitive Pursuits has been on a mission to foster life-long relationships between individuals and the natural world through exceptional mentoring and nature education. The organization’s work aligns with the growing body of evidence connecting time spent in nature with improved human health and well-being.

Overnight camp registration for summer 2024 will be open as of December 4th, 2023. For more information or to register for camps, visit primitivepursuits.com.

Media Contact

Megan Pugh, Primitive Pursuits, 1 607-351-7005, [email protected], https://primitivepursuits.com

Rachel Bortin, Primitive Pursuits, 1 607-272-2292 195, [email protected], https://primitivepursuits.com

SOURCE Primitive Pursuits

Legal / Law: Criminal Law

Local Non-Profits Receive More than $288,000 in Grants to Advance Southern California Clean Energy Initiatives

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“Providing funding to these community organizations helps advance their work in clean energy, sustainability and resiliency and enhances the health and wellbeing of the communities CPA serves,” said Gina Goodhill, Clean Power Alliance’s Senior Director of Government Affairs. “The selected projects will benefit thousands of individuals and move us closer to a clean energy future.”

Calpine Energy Solutions awards the program funding, while CPA develops the grant guidelines and helps recruit local non-profit organizations to apply for the funding. Both organizations work together to review the applications and choose awardees. This year’s application period took place from Aug. 1 to Oct. 6, 2023.

Josh Brock, Calpine Energy Solutions’ Vice President of CCA Commercial Operations, says the annual Community Benefits Grant Program provides an opportunity to develop long-term partnerships with groups working to bring environmental benefits to their communities.

“Calpine Energy Solutions is committed to our many CCA partners and the wide range of communities they serve,” said Brock. “We are delighted to continue sponsoring this program which does a great job of highlighting the important work of many community organizations, while amplifying the positive impact Clean Power Alliance has throughout Southern California.”

This year’s grant recipients include the following non-profit organizations:

Climate First: Replacing Oil & Gas ($25,000)  Funds will go toward workforce development to increase career exploration and community awareness of green industry opportunities. Alongside local trade unions, the organization will utilize virtual reality (VR) to provide an introduction to offshore wind production and turbine maintenance.

Columbia Memorial Space Center ($20,000) – Funds will support City of STEM, the largest program promoting Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math in Los Angeles. The program is committed to opening equitable access to STEM learning, especially to those members of the public from marginalized communities, as well as under-resourced neighborhoods throughout Los Angeles.

Friends of the Los Angeles River ($25,000) – Funds will be used to support The LA River & Me Education Program and general operations. The LA River & Me Program provides an opportunity to connect 140 classes from 70 Title 1 schools to the natural world. The program brings students to the LA River on a field trip, where they participate in three interactive educational stations. The LA River watershed covers more than 800 square miles of the most densely populated, ethnically, and socio-economically diverse region in the United States. The program covers 21 of CPA’s member communities, with priority to applicants from Alhambra, Carson, Downey, Paramount, and South Pasadena.

Grid Alternatives LA ($20,000) – Funds will be used to provide homeowners in Carson and Whittier with reroofs, service panel upgrades, and any other necessary professional services to access no-cost solar energy systems.

LA Regional Collaborative for Climate Action and Sustainability (LARC) ($20,000) – Funds will be used to create a Clean Energy Education Campaign to educate the public in the greater Los Angeles region about the benefits of clean energy and promote more sustainable energy usage. LARC will form a Community Advisory Group (CAG) to guide the campaign and will enlist two UCLA College Corps Fellows in the campaign.

Merito Foundation ($30,000)  – Funds will be used toward advancing energy literacy and green workforce development opportunities for Ventura Unified School District (VUSD) students. The project will empower 1,200 multicultural and economically unprivileged VUSD students in grades 7-12 to innovate solutions that reduce the carbon footprint of their school campuses through six months of in-class energy literacy, culminating in a STEM competition.

Oxnard Performing Arts Center ($23,900) – Funds will be used to incorporate solar energy art activities and education into a year-long initiative. The program is expected to reach 20,000 individuals, including teens, youth, and families within Ventura County. Activities will include Solar Summer Camp, Family Art Night, and the launch of a solar art cart to be used at various events.

Pando Populus ($20,000) – Funding will go toward Pando Days, a project-centered learning program for colleges and universities focused on implementing Los Angeles County’s sustainability goals. This year’s program spans 20 universities and community colleges throughout Los Angeles and Ventura counties.

Santa Monica Mountains Foundation ($25,000) – Funding will support the development of the Los Angeles region’s first native seed production farm. This project will seek to increase resiliency to climate change, mitigate the threat of extreme wildfires, offer employment opportunities and environmental education for diverse youth, and enhance wildlife habitat and ecosystems.

Tree People ($25,000) – Funding will support the Tree People Eco Tours, where trained leaders lead K-6 students and teachers on guided trail hikes to experience the outdoors while learning about the concepts of climate change. This funding will help expand education to disadvantaged youth from both Los Angeles and Ventura counties, to experience STEM and ensure inclusive environmental education.

U.S. Green Business Council (USGBC) ($30,000) – Funding will be used to develop a certification for construction professionals to learn and adopt best practices around improvements and materials for buildings and landscapes to reduce the long-term extreme heat-related impacts of climate change. This training will build upon the successful model developed and implemented by USGBC-LA to provide wildfire defense training and certifications for construction and landscaping professionals.

Ventura County Community Foundation ($25,000) – Funding will be used for operational support to increase coordination and capacity building around the foundation’s environmental literacy programming, workforce development in green jobs, and resiliency for outdoor workers faced with extreme heat.

The next round of Community Benefits Grant Program applications will open in the fall of 2024.

In addition to this grant program, CPA also invests in the many communities it serves through various programs that provide customers with access to cost-savings as well as energy-saving opportunities. Together these programs create healthier communities by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and creating green jobs. Learn more about these CPA programs at CleanPowerAlliance.org/programs.

About Clean Power Alliance
Founded in 2017, Clean Power Alliance is the locally operated not-for-profit electricity provider for 30 cities across Los Angeles County and Ventura County, as well as the unincorporated areas of both counties. CPA is the fourth largest electricity provider in California and leads the nation in serving the most customers with 100% renewable energy. CPA serves approximately three million residents and businesses via one million customer accounts, providing clean renewable energy at competitive rates. You can learn more at CleanPowerAlliance.org.

About Calpine Energy Solutions
Calpine Energy Solutions is the premier provider of data management and customer contact center services for Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) Agencies. Since 2009, Calpine has been a trusted business partner serving 22 operating CCAs and managing customer data for over 5 million customer accounts across the United States. Calpine Energy Solution’s best-in-class back-office services help guide clients from the initial program launch through mass enrollment phases and beyond. Decades of utility and billing experience, electronic data interchange, customized implementation planning, and robust customer data management enable Calpine’s clients to achieve their missions and long-term operational success.

Media Contact

Joseph Cabral, Clean Power Alliance, 213-442-8109, [email protected], http://www.cleanpoweralliance.org

SOURCE Clean Power Alliance

Legal / Law: Criminal Law

Delta Air Lines Answers Atlanta Habitat’s THRIVE Challenge, Steps up to Build Four Homes in 2023

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The goal of the THRIVE Challenge, which launched at the beginning of the year, is to build at least 10 additional homes over the next two years. Thanks to support from numerous companies, including Delta, The Home Depot, Wells Fargo, Supreme Lending and North Point, Atlanta Habitat is on track to reach its goal.

“In recognition of our milestone 40th anniversary, the THRIVE Challenge allows us to help even more families thrive,” said Alan Ferguson Sr., CEO of Atlanta Habitat. “Thanks to the generosity of companies like Delta, we are able to offer solutions to address socio-economic disparities that are often barriers to home ownership for working families.”

The partnership between Delta and Atlanta Habitat has played a pivotal role in the development of Browns Mill Village, a 31-acre community southeast of downtown Atlanta. Delta built the first home in the community. Their funding and volunteer efforts were instrumental in constructing the neighborhood’s model homes, which showcase the high-quality amenities and layout that define the impressive single- and two-story homes lining the neighborhood’s streets. In addition, Atlanta Habitat received a grant for Browns Mill Village from The Delta Air Lines Foundation.

“At Delta, our mission to connect the world creates opportunities, fosters understanding and expands horizons by connecting people and communities to each other and to their own potential,” said Matt Sparks, senior vice president of Operations Customer Center and Operations Analytics, Delta Air Lines. “We are proud to step up and partner with Atlanta Habitat in honor of their 40th anniversary and to make the dream of homeownership a reality for Atlanta families.”

Adding a poignant touch to this remarkable achievement, the homes were constructed on “Delta Way.” This street was aptly named in honor of Delta in 2021 in recognition of their steadfast and enduring support for Atlanta Habitat and its deserving homeowners.

In 2022, Atlanta Habitat built 28 new homes. This year, in honor of its 40th anniversary, the organization plans to continue addressing the affordable housing gap by building 40 homes. To date, 31 have been completed.

About Atlanta Habitat for Humanity
Atlanta Habitat for Humanity transforms communities through neighborhood revitalization, education, innovative development, and partnerships. As one of Habitat for Humanity International’s largest affiliates, Atlanta Habitat has made an estimated $40 million impact on affordable housing in neighborhoods across Atlanta and South Fulton County over the last five years. Since its launch in 1983, the nonprofit affordable home developer has served over 2,400 families (more than 6,000 individuals) with its first-time home purchase, rehab and critical home repair services and education programs. Visit http://www.atlantahabitat.org.

Media Contact
Jessica Drake, Atlanta Habitat for Humanity, 7064420497, [email protected], https://atlantahabitat.org/

SOURCE Atlanta Habitat for Humanity

Legal / Law: Criminal Law

The Healthcare Innovation Company’s 9th Annual Pharmaceutical and Medical Meetings Summit Partners with Rosie’s Place of Boston for Its 2023 Event

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Attendees of the Summit, taking place December 11-12 in Boston, are encouraged to bring new, warm winter items such as hats, gloves, mittens, scarves, and socks to support Rosie’s Place

NEEDHAM, Mass., Nov. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — The Healthcare Innovation Company (thINc) announced that it has partnered with Rosie’s Place, the first women-only shelter in the United States, for its Pharmaceutical and Medical Meetings Summit, taking place December 11-12, at The Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotel. All those in attendance will have an opportunity to participate in philanthropic activities to support Rosie’s Place by donating new, warm winter items such as hats, gloves, mittens, scarves, and socks.

“As a local company, we are pleased to have the opportunity to give back to the community, particularly Rosie’s Place, because it is such an important and impactful organization. Meeting management professionals have a keen understanding of how bringing people together is a powerful opportunity to effect change. With that in mind, it was important for our organization to think about how we can do that with the Pharmaceutical and Medical Meetings Summit. We are particularly grateful to Meet Boston for its support and making this opportunity possible,” said Haritha Krishnarathnam, Executive Vice President of Content and Strategy, The Healthcare Innovation Company.

The Pharmaceutical and Medical Meetings Summit convenes senior meeting management professionals from the life sciences, medical, and health care industries for peer-to-peer knowledge exchanges, shared best practices, networking, and practical recommendations. The event has a unique 1:1 ratio of meeting management professionals to solution providers. More information is available at https://www.thINc360.com/MedMeetings

About Rosie’s Place
Rosie’s Place’s mission is to provide a safe and nurturing environment that helps poor and homeless women maintain their dignity, seek opportunity, and find security in their lives. Rosie’s Place relies solely on the generous support of individuals, foundations, and corporations and does not accept any city, state, or federal funding. Thanks to these donations, 88 cents of every dollar raised go directly to services for poor and homeless women. To learn more, visit https://www.RosiesPlace.org

About The Healthcare Innovation Company
The Healthcare Innovation Company (thINc) develops content that keeps executives at health plans, hospitals and health systems, and pharma and life sciences organizations engaged and informed. By delivering timely information through its live events, webinars, and additional digital offerings, thINc is a catalyst for change for today’s leading organizations, providing them with insights and recommendations to make better business decisions, contain costs, and deliver better outcomes for the populations and markets they serve.

Visit https://www.thINc360.com to learn more or https://www.thINc360.com/2024event to get additional information on the organization’s annual flagship event, thINc360.

Media Contact

Sean Edwards, The Healthcare Innovation Company, 1-781-939-2618, [email protected], https://www.thINc360.com

SOURCE The Healthcare Innovation Company

Legal / Law: Criminal Law

Key Legislation (H.R. 3674) Considered During House Energy and Commerce Committee Markup

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United Specialists for Patient Access (USPA) says momentum is building behind H.R. 3674

WASHINGTON, Nov. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — The Providing Relief and Stability for Medicare Patients Act of 2023 (H.R. 3674), legislation to strengthen community and office-based providers, was considered during the Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee markup held on November 15.

H.R. 3674 is bipartisan legislation that aims to stop ongoing cuts to office-based specialists for the next two years. By doing so, it helps prevent major disruptions in patient access to care while addressing concerns about the future of Medicare physician payments. Watch the explainer video on H.R. 3674 HERE.

E&C Health Hearing Highlights

Congressman Gus Bilirakis (R-FL-12) Transcript:

Rep. Bilirakis:
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I appreciate it very much. I first want to say I’m fully supportive of the underlying bill, H.R. 6371, which will help provide additional stability for providers under the Medicare fee schedule. This bill will accomplish this by raising the budget neutrality threshold, requiring CMS to continue to update the direct costs relative value units and adjust pricing and limiting the damage of the conversion factor each year. I want to thank my good friend, Dr. Burgess. We’re going to miss you, doctor, but I know we have a few more months left. My bipartisan amendment, which I do plan to withdraw, Mr. Chairman would insert a new section with the contents of my bipartisan bill, H.R. 3674, The Providing Relief and Stability for Medicare Patients Act, which was noticed in our last subcommittee legislative hearing in October. Of course, I’m disappointed, but I know there’s another day there that we were unable to get it on the agenda to mark it up and move forward here today.

H.R. 3674, which I lead with my good friend, Representative Cárdenas, would mitigate payment cuts to specialty services provided in community office-based physician practice settings. These non-facility settings help preserve patient access to care and avoid further consolidation in the Medicare program. Office-based specialty care is a critical service outside of the hospital setting. It is also less costly for Medicare and for patients than when such care is provided in more expensive hospital settings. It’s a win-win for everyone, and I hope we get this done. However, and it’s 2022 Physician Fee Schedule CMS finalized an update to its clinical labor policy and due to budget neutrality constraints led to significant Medicare cuts for office-based specialists, such as radiation oncologists, vascular surgeons, nephrologists, urologists and many others. These adjustments and clinical labor costs meant some providers faced over 20% cuts in reimbursements, that’s unsustainable, resulting in some physicians discontinuing their services. Very unfortunate to the patients, leaving the field through retirement or consolidating their practices to large systems or private equity interests.

Patients are ultimately hurt by these effects due to lack of access to specialty care services in their communities and worse, health disparities for rural and underserved areas. I represent plenty of rural areas in my new district, Mr. Chairman. My bill would provide two years of targeted relief for specialty care providers who were most adversely impacted by this policy starting in 2024 and continuing through 2025. Unfortunately, if we don’t act soon, the next round of cuts will lead to more consolidation and I fear worse outcomes for patients who will pay more and wait longer for their care. We should be doing all we can to prevent this in our healthcare system. I understand that the cost associated with our bill may need to be scaled back, and I am committed to finding a path forward that ensures that the bill is fully offset. This includes potential ways to reduce the percentage of practice expense, RVUs applied within the bill.

In fact, our legislation was designed in a way to ensure these dials can be controlled in a way that is fiscally responsible. I want to thank Representative Cárdenas for supporting these efforts with me and co-sponsoring this amendment. I also want to recognize Dr. Murphy and Representative Davis on the Ways and Means Committee. I also know that Senator Tillis offered the amendment as well on the Senate Finance Committee last week. So Mr. Chairman and Madam Ranking Member, I ask that you both please commit to working with me and the other co-leads on this bill to advance this policy further and ensure office-based specialists have stability under the Medicare program. These cuts must be mitigated to allow our doctors to continue to provide great care for patients and our community. So I can’t emphasize this enough. I’ve talked to many, many doctors, and this needs to get done, so we really would appreciate your considerations.

Rep. Bilirakis: Yes, thank you, Mr. Chairman. I know you’ll work with me on this particular bill.

Rep. Bucshon (R-IN-8) Vice Chair of the E&C Health Subcommittee: Oh, yeah.

Watch the exchange here.

Congressman Tony Cárdenas (D-CA-29) Transcript:

Rep. Cárdenas:

I would like to thank my colleague, congress, for bringing forth this amendment, which will be hugely consequential for access to care in community settings. If we are serious about ensuring greater accessibility to healthcare services, we have to address the systematic under reimbursement for care provided in office-based settings. Office-based specialty care is often a lifeline for patients with a range of conditions, including those with cancer and end-stage renal disease, peripheral artery disease, and others. All of these conditions pose a major risk to constituents in my district, and what is more challenging is that these office settings are facing potential closures or consolidation into larger systems because of cuts.

My concern is that closures and consolidation reduce options, creating unnecessary barriers for people seeking needed care. The local clinics will close and patients’ access will suffer if this goes unaddressed. I hope that my colleagues agree to work on this legislation and to land on a path forward that supports access to community care. We stand ready to collaborate on this, many of us do.

Lastly, before I conclude, I also want to mention that I’m grateful for some of the other amendments being proposed today, which look to fix some of the structural concerns with physician reimbursement. I hope to continue to engage on these issues as we go forward. Failing to do so will contribute to already shocking rates of physician shortages and reduces access to care for patients.

Watch here.

Media Contact

Grant Herring, United Specialists for Patient Access, 202-280-2554, [email protected], https://www.uspaccess.org/

SOURCE United Specialists for Patient Access

Legal / Law: Criminal Law

Boca Beach Chabad Welcomes Israel Consul General Maor Elbaz-Starinsky to ChanukahVIP Reception and Alex Clare Concert

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Time: 5:30 PM

Location: Boca Beach Chabad, 120 NE 1st Avenue, Boca Raton, FL

Consul General Maor Elbaz-Starinsky’s presence adds a unique and meaningful dimension to our Chanukah celebrations. As a representative of the government of Israel, he will share insights and reflections that highlight the significance of this festival not only for the Jewish community but also for the broader international context.

Following the Chanukah VIP Reception, attendees are invited to join us for a high-energy live performance by global superstar Alex Clare. Alex Clare rose to fame with his mega-hit “Too Close” and has garnered a global following with his soulful music and powerful vocals.

Event Highlights:

Chanukah VIP Reception: Join us at 5:30 PM for a reception featuring Consul General Maor Elbaz-Starinsky’s remarks and an opportunity to mingle with community leaders and fellow attendees.

Alex Clare Concert: After the reception, get ready for a high-energy performance by Alex Clare, whose music has touched hearts around the world.

This Chanukah celebration promises to be a night filled with music, unity, and light. We invite the entire community to join us in marking this joyous occasion.

Local Government Officials are slated to take part in the Menorah Lighting Ceremony before the concert.

Ticket Information:

VIP Tickets: www.bocabeachchabad.com/chanukah

Concert General Admission: FREE

To secure a reserved spot, please visit www.bocabeachchabad.com/chanukah

Don’t miss out on this exceptional evening of celebration and inspiration.

About Boca Beach Chabad:

Boca Beach Chabad is a vibrant and inclusive center for Jewish life and community in Boca Raton, Florida. We are dedicated to providing cultural, educational, and spiritual experiences that strengthen the bonds of our community.

For media inquiries, sponsorship opportunities, or additional information, please contact:

Hannah Zlatkiss

Boca Beach Chabad

[email protected]

310-418-1094

SOURCE Cre8MediaHub.com

Legal / Law: Criminal Law

Inman’s Triple-I Survey Demonstrates Impact of Interest Rates, Commission Lawsuit Verdict on Real Estate Professionals

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The leading source for real estate news, Inman posed unique questions to agents, loan originators, real estate & mortgage executives, and proptech players that again provided essential takeaways for industry decision-makers. But the Triple-I found one tie, interest rates, which continues to bind nearly every real estate professional – today and in their outlooks for 2024.

Interest rates still hang heavy around the real estate industry’s collective neck. Per Inman Triple-I:

  • Four out of five survey groups said interest rates are their top business concern.
  • Mortgage pros, maybe the surprising exception, ranked interest rates second.
  • Real estate agents and execs, surveyed during the Sitzer | Burnett trial, both put interest rates first even with ‘commission lawsuit fallout’ as an option.
  • Real estate, mortgage and proptech executives remain hampered by costly cash. Asked about the cost and availability of capital today vs. 12 months ago, over 55% of business leaders either felt worse or the same but were pessimistic.
  • There was more optimism expressed about raising capital 12 months from now. The percentage of respondents who said they felt better jumped five-fold.

Running concurrently with the Sitzer | Burnett trial, a real estate commissions case that may forever alter the residential real estate industry, the October Triple-I generated unmatched insights. Over 1,000 agents, broker-owners and real estate executives participated, offering real-time answers from the stakeholders most impacted by the lawsuit’s verdict.

Full results, presented in a 142-page presentation, and comprehensive reporting are available exclusively to Inman Intel subscribers.

Inman Intel, the data and research arm for the industry’s leading news source, surveys its community monthly to track sentiment and provide actionable information in a critical period for decision-makers. Inman Intel’s November Triple-I survey is open and can be taken here. Results from the previous month’s survey are released on the third Wednesday of each month.

About Inman

Inman is the leading news source for real estate agents, brokers, executives, and technology leaders who gain useful advice on the industry’s top stories, trends and developments that help them grow their businesses and stay ahead of the competition. With an audience of over one million professionals, Inman’s pages and stages are where the industry goes to find the most innovative ideas and new business models, through our website, newsletters, events, awards, education, research, and subscriptions.

About Inman Intel

Inman Intel is a members-only service for real estate industry executives, proptech founders and the investment community looking to navigate the residential marketplace aided by research insights into factors that may impact key factors for doing business. Monthly subscription cost is $250 — or save when you join for a year. Benefits include weekly member-only email newsletter, research reports, periodic webinars, member-only sessions (virtual or in-person), and presentation decks from Inman Connect events. Plus an Inman Select subscription.

About Inman Intel Index

Each month, the Inman Intel Index — commonly referred to as the Triple-I, or III — takes the pulse of real estate agents, brokers, mortgage professionals and industry executives, tracking industry sentiment on everything from the state of the housing market to advances in technology like artificial intelligence. It generates actionable insights that move the industry forward. Results from the previous month’s survey are released on the third Wednesday.

Follow Inman on Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Media Contact:

[email protected]

Media Contact

Media Contact, Inman, 1 510-658-9252, [email protected], https://www.inman.com/

SOURCE Inman