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Vector Solutions Launches Public Safety Tool Connecting Training and Certification Records Between Academies, Local Departments, and State Regulatory Agencies


AgencyConnect provides a single repository across state certifying authorities, training academies, and local agencies to simplify reporting and provide a comprehensive, real-time view of first responder training and qualifications

TAMPA, Fla., Oct. 12, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Today, Vector Solutions, the leading provider of technology solutions to help train, prepare, and retain public safety professionals, announced the launch of AgencyConnect, the only data-sharing solution connecting local departments’ training management systems to those used by state certifying authorities and training academies. AgencyConnect establishes a single repository for first responder preparedness and documentation, allowing them to focus on more important tasks like preparedness initiatives.

Until now, there has been no inherent connection between the systems that state standards and training/certifying bodies use and the software and paper processes being utilized by local personnel to manually submit training records to maintain their certifications. For too long, first responders and state authorities have been challenged with fragmented systems, with training and certification records distributed across academies, local departments, and state regulatory agencies – and in many cases in paper files locked away in an office. When the time comes to track down the information needed, the files are extremely difficult to access, resulting in wasted time. Once the information is obtained, it must be submitted via multiple and varying systems to maintain compliance, making an already long process more time-consuming and taking time away from focusing on preparedness initiatives.

“Assurance that our first responders are trained and qualified for the critical role they play in public safety impacts us all,” said Jonathan Cherins, CEO of Vector Solutions. “Yet, the disconnected, cumbersome, and time-consuming processes currently in place to track and report all their training and certifications is outdated.”

AgencyConnect provides a real-time, single repository across state agencies, academies, and local departments. It enables state training authorities to automatically collect and verify hundreds of thousands of records submitted annually from agencies across the state. Some of the benefits departments will see using AgencyConnect include:

  • Reduced time-intensive, manual processes that inhibit training reviews
  • Simplified training reporting to reduce the risk of out-of-compliance first responders
  • Better preparedness insight from comprehensive certification, renewal, and training information 

The Missouri Division of Fire Safety, Utah Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST), New Mexico Firefighters Training Academy, and The Georgia Firefighters Standards and Training Council are AgencyConnect founding partners, enabling an easier process for local agencies across their states to access, track, and report their first responder training—including automated training submissions. The decision to integrate this Vector Solutions tool exemplifies their commitment to modernizing and improving training and certification management for their respective departments across Missouri, Utah, New Mexico, and Georgia.

“In response to the demand for increased accountability and enhanced training within the law enforcement profession, there is a strong desire for local agency solutions that streamline officer training and automate reporting,” said John Jacobs, Utah POST Training Manager. “We require innovative technological solutions to enhance our efficiency, and Vector Solutions is stepping up to meet that demand.”

Additionally, the Training Operations Manager for the New Mexico Firefighters Training Academy said, “If a training officer contacts me wanting to get the student training and certification records for one of their members and I could pull up everything he has done at the Academy, plus all of the training completed at his local department with AgencyConnect, it would save everyone a lot of time. I know there are other states that also track all training data, including non-certification training, so automating training submissions would save time and the headaches of having to submit rosters and course materials.”

“Georgia Firefighter Standards and Training is new to Acadis and we are enjoying the possibilities provided,” said Randy Toms, Executive Director of The Georgia Firefighter Standards and Training. “We are especially excited about the combining of Acadis through our agency and Vector Solutions with departments to continue enhancing efficiency throughout the State of Georgia.”

To learn more about AgencyConnect and other fire and law enforcement solutions including training management software and online training from Vector Solutions, click here for fire and here for law enforcement.

ABOUT VECTOR SOLUTIONS for FIRE & EMS
Vector Solutions for Fire & EMS is the industry leader in training and workforce management technology that enables Fire and Rescue Departments to meet their demanding training, compliance, and preparedness objectives. The Vector Solutions public safety suite of products includes software for training management, policy distribution, personnel scheduling, critical incident and exposure tracking, and promoting a positive department culture. Its online course library includes more than 450 hours of fire department training with 250+ hours of CAPCE-approved EMS recertification courses. Trusted by 10,000 public safety agencies and 2 million first responders, Vector’s purpose-built technology streamlines the full lifecycle of personnel management because readiness saves lives. For more information about Vector Solutions for Fire & EMS, visit https://www.vectorsolutions.com/industries/public-safety/.

About VECTOR SOLUTIONS for LAW ENFORCEMENT
Vector Solutions for Law Enforcement is the industry leader in operational readiness technology that enables Law Enforcement Departments, Academies, and POST organizations to meet their demanding training, compliance, and preparedness objectives. The Vector Solutions public safety suite of products includes software for training management, policy distribution, personnel scheduling, equipment management, early intervention, and promoting a positive and transparent agency culture. Its accredited online course library includes IADLEST NCP-certified courses approved for POST annual training requirements. Trusted by 10,000 public safety agencies and 2 million first responders, Vector’s purpose-built technology covers the full lifecycle of personnel management, from hire-to-retire, because readiness saves lives. For more information about Vector Solutions for Law Enforcement, visit https://www.vectorsolutions.com/industries/public-safety/law-enforcement/

ABOUT VECTOR SOLUTIONS
Vector Solutions is the leading provider of impactful technology solutions dedicated to driving safer, smarter, better decision-making in the world’s most critical industries. Embedded into daily workflows to drive improvements in compliance, safety, performance, and preparedness, our software includes training management, industry-focused online course libraries, EHS management, workforce scheduling, risk communication, operational readiness, and more. Vector’s unique combination of information and technology – delivered when and where it is needed – is integral to our more than 34 thousand clients looking to achieve better outcomes and safeguard lives. Vector is committed to providing resources to support those who need them most and launched a collection of free courses on critical mental health and safety topics through Vector Cares. For more information, visit http://www.vectorsolutions.com. For access to free Vector Cares courses visit https://www.vectorsolutions.com/about-us/vector-cares/.

Media Contact

Anna Craven, Vector Solutions, 8577530727, [email protected], https://www.vectorsolutions.com/

SOURCE Vector Solutions

The Wall Street Technology Association (WSTA) to Hold Virtual Event on “The Future of Cybersecurity” for Financial Technology and Business Professionals


The Wall Street Technology Association (WSTA®), a not-for-profit organization that provides financial technology and business professionals a forum to learn from and connect with each other, will host a virtual educational event on “The Future of Cybersecurity” on October 19, 2023.

NEW YORK, Oct. 12, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — The Wall Street Technology Association (WSTA®), a not-for-profit organization that provides financial technology and business professionals a forum to learn from and connect with each other, will host a virtual educational event on “The Future of Cybersecurity” on October 19, 2023.

Speakers at this event include Keynote and Panel Moderator: Johna Till Johnson, CEO and Founder, Nemertes; representatives from financial services; Premier Sponsor: Fortinet; Speaking and Panel Sponsors: Check Point, Cohesity, and Rubrik; and Polling Sponsor: Tanium. For more information, visit: https://www.wsta.org/event/future-cybersecurity-financial-services/

“When it comes to cybersecurity, the old adage that what got you here, won’t get you there holds true,” says Johna Till Johnson, CEO of Nemertes and WSTA content committee chair. “Practices that worked effectively in the past will no longer protect financial firms from coming threats.”

Event Description

Financial services firms know all too well that cybersecurity threats are continually growing in power and sophistication. To counter those threats, cybersecurity teams and initiatives need to stay continually focused on the future: Only by putting in place forward looking defenses can they stay protected.

This event focuses on the cybersecurity strategies, technologies, and practices that will help financial firms fight the “next war” in cybersecurity—the one that’s just over the horizon.

Topics include:

  •     Zero Trust Security
  •     Quantum computing and cryptography
  •     Blockchain protection
  •     Protecting the Metaverse
  •     Cybersecurity automation, ML, AI
  •     Advanced predictive analytics    
  •     Mobile protection
  •     Third-party risk management
  •     Cloud workload protection
  •     Application security testing
  •     Collaboration security
  •     Data protection
  •     API Security

The panel of industry experts discusses how the threat landscape (and regulatory environment) is growing and changing and shares best practices on how to adapt to these changing environments. They discuss emerging cybersecurity technologies and their potential impact on financial services firms, as well as how SecOps needs to adapt to help firms confront emerging challenges.

About the Wall Street Technology Association (WSTA)
The WSTA facilitates virtual and in-person educational and networking events where members meet and exchange ideas and best practices that assist them in effectively capitalizing on technology advances in areas such as Cybersecurity, Analytics, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Mobility, Wireless, Machine Learning (ML), Data, Cloud, Blockchain, Digital, Architecture, etc. and dealing with financial industry business challenges. Founded in 1967, the WSTA is a not-for-profit association with a long history of evolving to meet the needs of its members.

The WSTA hosts seminars, roundtables, panel discussions, and social events. These events offer many opportunities to learn about leading technologies, as well as network and share information with industry colleagues. The WSTA’s educational TechTrends provides additional content and information about the WSTA and industry-related activities. The website is a dynamic resource providing access to additional resources including webinars, white papers, videos, and information about other industry events.

About Nemertes
Nemertes is a global research-based advisory and consulting firm that analyzes the business value of emerging technologies. Since 2002, we have provided strategic recommendations based on data-driven operational and business metrics to help organizations deliver successful technology transformation to employees and customers. Simply put: Nemertes’ better data helps clients make better decisions. http://www.nemertes.com

Media Contact

Jo Ann Cooper, Wall Street Technology Association (WSTA), 7325308808, [email protected] 

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SOURCE Wall Street Technology Association (WSTA)



Identity Theft Resource Center Reports Data Compromise Record with Three Months Left in the Year


Cybersecurity researchers point to the rising number of successful Zero-Day attacks as one reason for the significant rise in data compromises. The ITRC has noted a 1,620 percent increase in Zero-Day attacks reported in the first three quarters of 2023 (86) compared to all of 2022 (5).

Download the ITRC’s Q3 2023 Data Breach Report & Analysis

“While setting a record for the number of data breaches is attention-grabbing, unfortunately, it is not surprising,” said Eva Velasquez, President and CEO of the Identity Theft Resource Center. “There are a handful of reasons for the rise in data compromises, ranging from the drastic uptick in Zero-Day attacks to a new wave of ransomware attacks as new ransomware groups enter the criminal identity marketplace. Now that we have broken the previous annual data comprise record, the question remains: by how much?”

Other findings in the Q3 2023 Data Breach Report Analysis include:

  • Supply chain attacks impacted scores of entities in Q3, even though they were not directly attacked. More than 1,000 (1,321) organizations reported data compromises due to an attack against 87 organizations, including many third parties that used the MOVEit file transfer software.
  • As of September 30, 344 U.S. organizations have been impacted by a single or multiple vendors using a vulnerable MOVEit product. An additional 79 organizations reported being directly affected by attacks against MOVEit software or services. Four of the top ten compromises in Q3 were related to a MOVEit attack.

Anyone can receive free support and guidance from a knowledgeable live advisor by calling 888.400.5530 or visiting idtheftcenter.org to live chat.

About the Identity Theft Resource Center

Founded in 1999, the Identity Theft Resource Center® (ITRC) is national nonprofit organization established to empower and guide consumers, victims, business and government to minimize risk and mitigate the impact of identity compromise and crime. Through public and private support, the ITRC provides no-cost victim assistance and consumer education through‥its website‥live chat, idtheftcenter.org, and‥toll-free phone number 888.400.5530.‥The ITRC also‥equips‥consumers and businesses‥with‥information about recent data breaches through its data breach tracking tool,‥notified.‥The ITRC offers help to specific‥populations, including‥the‥deaf/hard of‥hearing and‥blind/low‥vision‥communities.

Media Contact

Identity Theft Resource Center
Alex Achten
Director of Communications & Media Relations
888.400.5530 Ext. 3611
[email protected] 

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SOURCE Identity Theft Resource Center



NAIFA CEO Represents Advisors and the Consumers They Serve in Meeting With Administration Officials on DOL’s Fiduciary Proposal


Since that federal appeals court ruling in 2018, the Securities and Exchange Commission has implemented and begun enforcing Regulation Best Interest (Reg BI), which requires broker-dealers and registered representatives to put their clients’ interests ahead of their own. Additionally, forty states have enacted the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ (NAIC’s) model regulation that creates a best-interest standard for annuity transactions.

In addition to the federal and state regulations, NAIFA members abide by a Code of Ethics that requires them to put their clients’ interests first.

“NAIFA regularly meets with Administration officials to discuss issues important to financial professionals and the consumers NAIFA members serve,” Mayeux said. “NAIFA members work in their clients’ interests because it’s the right thing to do and because it’s good business. Backing that up is a strong slate of existing state and federal regulations. Additional action by the DOL at this time would create confusion for advisors and consumers without providing meaningful consumer protections. There is no need for the DOL’s current fiduciary proposal, and it would very likely bring unintended consequences harmful to the consumers the DOL aims to protect.”

“NAIFA supports all business models skilled financial professionals use to serve their clients,” Mayeux continued. “A brokerage model with commissions works very well for many consumers while others are better served by fee-based models. The current landscape offers an array of choices that the DOL proposal would seek to restrict.”

NAIFA is an advocacy partner of the Latin American Association of Insurance Agencies and the National African American Insurance Association, and Mayeux told the OIRA that a fiduciary-only rule would hit Black and Hispanic communities particularly hard, potentially increasing the racial wealth gap by 20% based on the size of IRAs.

“I would like to thank the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs for meeting with us,” Mayeux said. “NAIFA will continue to work with the Administration and members of Congress on behalf of financial professionals and the consumers who depend on them to oppose an unnecessary and potentially harmful DOL Fiduciary Rule.”

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

Mark Briscoe, NAIFA, 703-770-8111, [email protected], www.naifa.org

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SOURCE NAIFA



“The Future is Newark X Halsey Fest” Kicks Off School Year in Newark’s Arts and Education District


“Prudential is proud to support Halsey Fest, which underscores our commitment to strengthen the commercial corridors of our home city,” said Shané Harris, vice president & head of social responsibility at Prudential Financial and president of The Prudential Foundation. “Small businesses and the arts are the lifeblood of our communities, and the Halsey Fest event series shines a spotlight on our city’s thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem and exceptional local talent.”

Halsey Fest, originally created in 2009 by local entrepreneurs and organizers with the support of Rutgers University – Newark, serves as a platform for celebrating the city’s creators. The event highlights Newark’s business owners, entrepreneurs and local culture, ultimately driving foot traffic to Newark’s Halsey Street, a pillar of the city’s downtown neighborhood.

“Halsey Fest is a vital piece in our commitment to create inclusive and equitable growth in Newark,” said Evan Weiss, president and CEO of Newark Alliance. “Our organization is dedicated to supporting and developing Newarks innovators who are an essential piece to the city’s economy.”

“We are thrilled that our event series is providing a platform for local entrepreneurs and creatives that attracts Newarkers and regional visitors,” added Ashley Mays, chief of place and real estate of Newark Alliance.

Halsey Fest will kick off its final edition of the festival series on November 25, coinciding with Small Business Saturday and welcoming the holiday season. Over four consecutive Saturdays, the event will rally Newark residents and visitors to support their local businesses. In collaboration with The Newark Gift Card, attendees can shop locally, attend bar crawls and scavenger hunts, and partake in an array of family-friendly winter activities. Stay tuned at halseyfestival.com and thenewarkgiftcard.com for more details!

ABOUT NEWARK ALLIANCE

Through the strength and collaboration of our Members, Newark Alliance aims to drive inclusive economic growth for all of Newark. Our vision is to work collaboratively to cement Newark’s status as one of America’s most diverse, prosperous, exciting and equitable cities, serving as a national model for inclusive economic growth. We are an organization of diverse leaders from various institutions who believe that doing good work in Newark is an ongoing commitment and task of the Alliance and each member. Stay up to date on Newark Alliance’s latest news by following us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Media Contact

Grace Sanford, Violet PR, 2012903543, [email protected], https://www.violetpr.com/ 

SOURCE Newark Alliance



Santhigram Foundation Announces “Imagine Ayurveda” Contest


Santhigram Foundation launches “Imagine Ayurveda,” a contest celebrating Ayurvedic wisdom and envisioning its future through artwork.

EDISON, N.J., Oct. 9, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Santhigram Foundation, a leading non-profit championing Ayurveda, introduce the “Imagine Ayurveda” contest on October 11, 2023. This global initiative invites individuals to share their innovative visions for Ayurveda’s future in the modern world through artwork.

The contest welcomes entries in various formats, Digital and AI artworks. It aims to gather insights on integrating Ayurveda with artwork to showcase the visualization of Ayurvedic concepts.

As Ayurveda’s advocate, the Santhigram Foundation sees this contest as a step towards bridging traditional knowledge with modern science. The foundation encourages participants to contribute their perspectives, regardless of their Ayurveda familiarity.

“Imagine Ayurveda” promises to be a significant event in Ayurvedic discourse.

For contest details, visit the Santhigram Foundation website.

https://www.santhigramfoundation.org/

https://www.facebook.com/santhigramfoundation/

GOPINATHAN NAIR (@santhigramfoundation) •

Contact:
GOPINATHAN NAIR
Santhigram Foundation
1681, STATE ROUTE 27,
Edison, NJ 08817
[email protected]
(732) 915-8814

SOURCE SANTHIGRAM FOUNDATION



12-Year-Old Anya Gupta Ignites Florida’s E-Waste Revolution


At just 12 years old, Anya Gupta is a trailblazing force of nature on a mission to save the planet. Anya is on a quest to combat E-Waste pollution, rallying Florida cities for sustainable tech disposal. As over 20 Florida cities proclaim October 14th’s E-Waste significance, it becomes evident that a young visionary’s determination can influence entire communities. Her goal is now all coastal cities across the country.

BOCA RATON, Fla., Oct. 9, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — At just 12 years old, Anya Gupta is a trailblazing force of nature on a mission to save the planet. Anya is on a quest to combat E-Waste pollution, rallying Florida cities for sustainable tech disposal. Last year, Boca Raton declared October 14th as E-Waste Day, spurred by Anya’s E-Waste Collection Drive, which collected over 1000 lbs of E-Waste. Inspired cities, including Miami Beach and Stuart, have since recognized October 14th as Electronic Waste Recycling Day.

Recent pledges from over 20 cities, including Miami Beach, Weston, Palm Beach Gardens, and Village of Palmetto Bay, underscore the significance of Anya’s vision. As these cities proclaim October 14th’s E-Waste significance, it becomes evident that a young visionary’s determination can influence entire communities.

After realizing the environmental impact of E-Waste, especially on marine life, Gupta founded the E-Waste Revolution movement. “I realized that while plastic and pollution are discussed, the environmental threats from electronics aren’t. I wanted to change that,” shares Anya.

A longtime environmentalist, at 5, Anya started Pennies for Penguins, a nonprofit for penguin conservation. Her initiatives, including the Sippy Cup Revolution against plastic straw waste, have mobilized youth globally.

On October 14th, Village of Palmetto Bay in Miami will honor Gupta’s efforts with a ceremony and citywide event on E-Waste Day. “You are wise beyond your years. We would be honored to recognize E-Waste Day on October 14th,” commends Mayor Karyn Cunningham.

Formed in 2023, the GLCS Youth Leadership Council, with Gupta as its president, aims to raise environmental awareness, especially among youth. John Holloway, President of Coastal Stewards, states, “We are beyond proud of our Youth Leadership Council. The future solutions lie in what kids like Anya have experienced and believe to be important. We aim to activate them for wildlife conservation.”

The council’s vision? A harmonious world where youth voices drive change. With a goal to rally 1 million kids worldwide, they start their journey in South Florida, targeting 50 local members.

For more on the Youth Council or membership inquiries, visit: https://www.gumbolimbo.org/youth-council/.

For more on Anya Gupta and her E-Waste Revolution visit: https://www.penniesforpenguins.com/

About Anya Gupta:

Born and raised in South Florida, 12-year-old Anya Gupta isn’t just an environmental enthusiast – she’s a dynamo of change. At the tender age of 5, her love for nature translated into founding the nonprofit Pennies for Penguins. Last year, she brought to life the E-Waste Revolution, a campaign that quickly garnered acclaim from top environmental factions. Recognized with prestigious national honors like the NTSA Toshiba Exploravision Science Award and the Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Award, Anya is also a revered youth activist. Her credentials include the Youth Service America “Everyday Young Heroes Award,” SeaWorld Youth Environmental Excellence Award, and the National Girl Scout Silver Award. An author of three children’s books, she’s on a mission to reshape the perspective of budding environmentalists. Anya is a beacon of hope, illuminating the path for future guardians of the planet.

About Coastal Stewards:

Coastal Stewards, established in 2012 (as Friends of Gumbo Limbo) is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that promotes sea turtle and coastal conservation and advocates. The mission of Coastal Stewards is to inspire people to support stewardship and research of coastal and marine ecosystems and focuses on the research, rescue, rehabilitation, and release of the endangered species of sea turtles. Learn more at www.gumbolimbo.org.

Media Contact

Shivani Gupta, Drive Public Relations, 1 844-643-8746, [email protected] 

SOURCE Anya Gupta