Category Archives: Society: Disabled Issues / Disabilities

The Latest news about what is effecting those with Disabilities in North America, These PR articles, bring the newest technologies, initiatives and helpful tools to those who need them.

Lightbridge Academy Announces Greg & Dina Hamwi as 2023 Franchisee of the Year for Exemplifying Circle of Care Philosophy


Lightbridge Academy has named Greg & Dina Hamwi as the 2023 Franchisee of the Year for their outstanding commitment to the brand’s philosophy. The franchise also recognized 48 Conference Award winners, including Pinnacle Award recipients, highlighting their dedication to high-quality early childhood education.

ISELIN, N.J., Oct. 10, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Lightbridge Academy®, Innovators in Educational Child Care® and one of the fastest-growing early childhood education franchises with over 150 centers either open or in development, announces Greg & Dina Hamwi as the 2023 Franchisee of the Year award recipients at the annual Lightbridge Academy Franchise Conference. The franchisees, who operate the Shrewsbury, New Jersey Lightbridge Academy location, were chosen for this prestigious award because they embody the brand’s Core Values and Circle of Care philosophy to the children in their care, the families who love them, and the staff. The distinguished franchisees recognize the importance of providing an essential and rewarding service to their local community through Lightbridge Academy’s proven franchise business model.

“We are thrilled to announce Greg and Dina Hamwi as our Franchisee of the Year,” said Chief Executive Officer, Gigi Schweikert. “Their dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to our Circle of Care philosophy have made them shining examples of excellence within our franchise. They have demonstrated exceptional leadership in providing a nurturing and safe environment for the children in their care at the Shrewsbury center. Their tireless efforts have truly exemplified our values and mission, and we are honored to have them as part of our Lightbridge Academy community.”

In addition to the Franchisee of the Year Award, Lightbridge Academy announces all forty-eight 2023 Conference Award winners, including Pinnacle of the Year Award, CEO Award, Customer Loyalty Awards, Lightbridge Foundation Award, Center Launch Champion, Reviewer’s Choice Award, Director of the Year, and Teacher of the Year winners. The first three awards are given to the Franchisee of the Year, Director of the Year, and Teacher of the Year. All honorees went above and beyond in 2023 to accomplish Lightbridge Academy’s promise to be The Solution for Working Parents® in their local communities and throughout the country.

Lightbridge Academy takes pride in its exceptional early childhood education leadership, with the Director of the Year award serving as a tribute to these outstanding individuals. The finalists and winners span across six franchises in centers located in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Additionally, Lightbridge Academy proudly unveils its Teacher of the Year recipients. These exceptional educators exemplify the school’s ‘whole child’ approach to child development, caring for their students’ academic, emotional, social, and physical growth daily. The six honorees come from five franchises in New Jersey and North Carolina.

One of Lightbridge Academy’s proudest accomplishments this year is having a record 34 Pinnacle Award winners with franchises across five states including New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. The Pinnacle Award is presented each year to honorees who serve an impressive number of families at their centers and provide The Solution for Working Parents® to a high volume of families in their communities.

This year, the CEO Award is presented to three honorees located in New Jersey and North Carolina. These winners are awarded in recognition of achieving the highest average yearly occupancy in the franchise system and providing high-quality, trusted child care in their respective communities.

Lightbridge Academy prioritizes the creation of an exceptional customer experience and honors franchisees who have cultivated remarkable customer loyalty through its Customer Loyalty Awards. Customer Loyalty Awards are awarded for creating a world-class customer experience and attaining the highest Net Promoter Score (NPS) among families. The Customer Loyalty Award recipients expand across nine franchises in four states including New Jersey, New York, Tennessee, and Virginia.

Highlighting incredible philanthropic efforts throughout the year, the Lightbridge Foundation Award is presented to franchisees who are recognized for achieving the highest level of fundraising contributions to the Lightbridge Academy Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization committed to supporting and adding value to the communities our child care centers serve throughout the country. The Lightbridge Foundation Award is presented to three honorees located in New Jersey, North Carolina, and Virginia.

The Center Launch Champion is awarded to franchisees for their remarkable opening enrollment achievement at the center’s opening. The Center Launch Champions include franchises in New York, North Carolina, and Tennessee.

Lastly, Franchisees were honored with the prestigious Reviewers Choice Award in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the brand’s image and standing within the community. This award is presented for exceeding Lightbridge Academy reputation standards. Reviewer’s Choice Award winners include centers in Edison, New Jersey, Hoboken – Willow, New Jersey, and Renaissance, New Jersey.

“I’m truly proud of all of our 2023 award winners and franchisees,” said Schweikert. “As we celebrate their remarkable achievements in delivering high-quality early childhood education within an essential and high-demand industry nationwide, it’s crucial to acknowledge our devoted franchisees who epitomize commitment, care, and passion in offering The Solution for Working Parents®. They continue to make a profound impact in their communities by providing a trusted solution for families seeking high-quality care.”

Lightbridge Academy’s business model meets the need for trusted educational child care by supporting busy families. With 58% of working parents currently relying on child care centers, according to Zippia, the expanding brand is perfectly positioned to meet the growing demand. Lightbridge Academy stands out for those seeking to open their first child care center and others seeking to diversify their portfolio with its accessible franchise support and renowned leadership team. The company remains economically resilient and organizationally nimble benefitting from flexibility, collaboration, and continued innovation in an ever-evolving market. This commitment to innovation has been recognized with the company being featured on the Inc. 5000 ranking and securing placement in Entrepreneur Magazine’s Franchise 500 list for the 7th year.

To learn more about Lightbridge Academy’s early childhood education programs, visit, LightbridgeAcademy.com.

To learn more about franchising opportunities, visit LightbridgeAcademyFranchise.com.

About Lightbridge Academy:

Established in 1997, the company was founded as a family business based on core values and a Circle of Care philosophy that places equal importance on the needs of children, their families, teachers, center owners and the community. Lightbridge Academy provides quality early education and child care programs to children aged six weeks through kindergarten. The company currently has over 150 child care centers either open or in development throughout Colorado, Florida, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia. The Lightbridge Promise also leads the industry as the Gold Standard for health & safety in the child care industry. In 2020, the company was featured on the Inc. 5000 ranking, Franchise Times Top 200+ awards, and on Newsweek’s 2021 list of America’s Best Customer Service. In 2022, Lightbridge Academy was featured for the 7th year on Entrepreneur Magazine’s Franchise 500 and for the 2nd year on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest growing private companies. In 2023, Lightbridge Academy was featured in the Franchise Times Top 400 rankings. For more information on Lightbridge Academy’s successful franchise business model, visit LightbridgeAcademyFranchise.com.

Media Contact

Konnect Agency, Lightbridge Academy, 1 7133060270, [email protected]

SOURCE Lightbridge Academy

DSS Presenting at The Fall 2023 DoD/VA & Government HIT Summit


The presentation will also discuss how no matter the outcome of the COTS solution, VistA will remain the vital backbone of VA operations. VistA supports many other functions across the VA beyond the EHR and will continue to be the only system used in VA medical centers across the country waiting for the new COTS EHR.

David Whitmer, FACHE and vice president for product operations (federal) at DSS, will present and lead this discussion on Thursday, October 12 at 9:50AM to 10:20AM.

“I am very honored to present and discuss VistA modernization to HIT industry leaders, especially since it’s a viable solution for ensuring Veteran safety and continuity of care,” said Whitmer. “We also aim to convey how investment in VistA minimizes cost, risk, time, and operational disruption while preserving and extending the VA’s homegrown VistA platform.”

In addition, David recently authored this Federal News Network guest article that provides more insights into his perspective around the VA’s need to continue to invest in, maintain, and upgrade VistA as part of its EHRM efforts. David also shares these insights in this recent FORUM Keeping IT Brief podcast interview.

David Whitmer is a board-certified health care executive with 30 years of public health experience, including 20 years in C-suite positions directing facilities and operations for the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), along with 10 years as a member of the Senior Executive Service (SES).

About Document Storage Systems, Inc. (DSS, Inc.)
Document Storage Systems, Inc. (DSS) is a catalyst for health care innovation, keeping pace with evolving technologies as a solutions provider, systems integrator, and services contractor to the Department of Veterans Affairs. DSS is committed to assisting VA in its High Reliability Organization journey and delivering care quality for Veterans by meeting top initiatives, changing regulatory requirements, and implementing enhanced business transformation across VA enterprise. For more information, visit https://www.dssinc.com.

Media Contact
Matthew Langan, L&R Communications, 2022623340, [email protected]

SOURCE Document Storage Systems, Inc. (DSS)

40 STORIES OF GRANDMA LOVE”…RELEASED IN TIME FOR GRANDPARENTS APPRECIATION MONTH


“Opening a window to the world of children moves us closer to the miracle of living,” says Frizlen who encourages readers to reawaken the child inside them and connect with the joy in their lives with a refreshed perspective.

To mark the launch of this extraordinary work, Judith Frizlen invited the public to a special launch party, held on Friday, September 15th, 2023, at the charming Fitz Books and Waffles in Buffalo, NY.

The event was a resounding success, bringing together families, book enthusiasts, and members of the media to celebrate the enduring power of intergenerational love and wisdom. Guests savored delicious waffles with ice cream while basking in the pleasant weather on the venue’s back patio. The highlight of the evening was Judith’s heartfelt readings from her book, “Where Wisdom Meets Wonder,” which resonated deeply with the audience. Attendees had the privilege of meeting the author, Judith Frizlen, in person, and they gained valuable insights into the inspirations and stories that shaped her heartwarming book. Many guests left with cherished memories and autographed copies of “Where Wisdom Meets Wonder,” creating lasting mementos of a truly special evening.

The event underscored the significance of preserving and celebrating the unique bond and honoring the love and wisdom that grandparents generously share with their grandchildren.

ABOUT JUDITH FRIZLEN
Judith Frizlen is a local writer, teacher, mother, grandmother, and founder of the Rose Garden Early Childhood Center in Buffalo, NY. She is an advocate for young children and everyone who cares for them. Judith Frizlen likes to go on adventures with her husband, such as: traveling, kayaking, hiking, bicycling, or strolling through Delaware Park. Her books include Unpacking Guilt, a Mother’s Journey to Freedom; Words for Parents in Small Doses; and Words for Teachers and Caregivers in Small Doses. Her blog can be found at http://www.judithfrizlen.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Malayika Mehra (866-949-6868)
[email protected]

SOURCE Judith Frizlen

QatarDebate Center's 'Oasis of Dialogue' in Washington Explores Efforts to Bridge the Gap Between the Government and Muslim Communities in the United States



The panel discussion highlighted challenges faced by Muslims in the U.S. and other countries DOHA, Qatar, Oct. 7, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Challenges confronting Muslim communities in the United States and strategies to foster stronger connections between these communities and the U.S….

Learnsoft’s Chief Operating Officer, Jen Meyer, Wins 2023 Globee Award


Jen Meyer joined Learnsoft in 2022, bringing more than 20 years of experience developing and delivering technical solutions to enterprise customers in some of the most complex and highly regulated industries. As Chief Operating Officer, she has played a pivotal role in streamlining Learnsoft’s operations and ensuring the delivery of top-notch learning management solutions to clients throughout the US.

Under Jen’s leadership, Learnsoft has achieved remarkable milestones, including:

  • Implementation of cutting-edge technology and processes to improve product development and delivery.
  • Expansion of Learnsoft’s reach through strategic partnerships and growth initiatives.
  • Maintain a 100% client retention rate by providing exceptional customer service and building relationships with clients.

“We are incredibly proud of Jen’s accomplishments and the positive impact she has had on Learnsoft,” said Robbie Abt, CEO of Learnsoft. “Her vision, dedication, and commitment to operational excellence have been instrumental in driving our company’s growth and success. This award is a well-deserved recognition of her outstanding contributions.”

Jen Meyer expressed her gratitude, “It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire Learnsoft team. I look forward to continuing our journey towards delivering the best customer value through service, collaboration, and expertise.”

This achievement adds to Learnsoft’s growing list of accolades and reaffirms the company’s commitment to excellence in learning and talent management.

About Learnsoft

Learnsoft offers organizations in highly regulated industries comprehensive training technology solutions. Learnsoft delivers a fully configurable, SaaS-based enterprise learning technology platform encompassing LMS (Learning Management System) and TMS (Talent Management System) capabilities. Designed for ease of use, content integration, and intelligent reporting, Learnsoft provides a complete, integrated view of an organization’s learners and their learning progress. For more information visit www.learnsoft.com.

Media Contact

Jaisalyn Santiago, Learnsoft, 1 8636979896, [email protected], www.learnsoft.com 

SOURCE Learnsoft

Women We Admire Announces Top 50 Women Leaders in Non-Profit of 2023


Women We Admire is pleased to announce The Top 50 Women Leaders in Non-Profit of 2023

NEW YORK, Oct. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Women We Admire is pleased to announce The Top 50 Women Leaders in Non-Profit of 2023. In today’s non-profit world, women make up more than 70% of professionals, a sector that holds significant importance in the U.S. economy, contributing a substantial $1.4 trillion to the American economy in the first quarter of 2022. Armed with their strong leadership abilities and a pioneering spirit, these women are leaving a profound mark on the communities they serve across various domains. This includes the orchestration of grassroots fundraising initiatives, spearheading global movements, and a myriad of other impactful endeavors.

Notably, research has demonstrated that nonprofits led by women in top positions tend to achieve greater success. They consistently outperform their counterparts in realizing their missions, attaining their objectives, and fostering higher employee satisfaction with the organization’s overall performance. Acknowledging the evident influence of female leaders, this year’s list of awardees includes women who have played pivotal roles in guiding their non-profits across diverse sectors such as education, housing, environmental conservation, healthcare, and various others.

Among the distinguished honorees featured on this year’s list, Wendy Sullivan stands out, leveraging nearly four decades of advocacy experience in her capacity as CEO of Easterseals Midwest, where her leadership has propelled the organization to become the largest provider of developmental disability services in Missouri. Another exemplary figure is Jennifer Harris, who holds the position of Senior Vice President of Philanthropy at the National Park Foundation, overseeing a team of more than 20 experts dedicated to generating an impressive annual sum of over $30 million in support of national parks.

Lastly, we have Mona Mourshed, a seasoned leader in the education and workforce domains, who brings her extensive expertise to the role of founding Global CEO at Generation; her accolades include being previously recognized as one of Fortune Magazine’s “40 Under 40” honorees and her authorship of widely-cited reports in the field of education.

Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments of The Top 50 Women Leaders in Non-profit of 2023.

Colleen Finn Ridenhour (Feed the Children), Janice Aeppli (American Foundation for Suicide Prevention), Priyanka Sharma (World Education), Deborah Gokie (Arthritis Foundation), Cici Ebersole (Ducks Unlimited), Beth Alexander (Goodwill Industries of Middle Tennessee), Catherine Milone (Junior Achievement USA), Nina Longino (iMentor), Shari Krull (StreetWise Partners), Jennifer Harris (National Park Foundation), Christian Nunes (National Organization for Women), Shane Woods (Girlstart), Isis Dallis (Climate Nexus), Danielle Hilliker (Southeastern Michigan Health Association), Maryum Lewis (Status: Home), Melanie Davis (Physical and Health Education Canada), Nancy K. Racette (DRiWaterstone Human Capital), Shannon Razsadin (Military Family Advisory Network), Sophia M. Piliouras (Minority Corporate Counsel Association), Heather O’Steen (Professional Management Associates), Sherece West-Scantebury (Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation), Shannon Mouton (Laurel Advocacy & Referral Services), Iara Peng (JustFund), Amanda Meeson (Sterling House Community Center), Margaret Sanchez (YWCA of Greater Cleveland), Felicia Thompson (Girl Scouts–Arizona Cactus-Pine Council), and many others.

To view the full list visit https://thewomenweadmire.com/2023/10/02/the-top-50-women-leaders-in-non-profit-of-2023/

About Women We Admire

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

Media Contact

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

SOURCE Women We Admire

Experience Senior Living Celebrates the Opening of New Community in Greater Richmond, VA


“We are delighted to announce the addition of Sancerre Atlee Station to the ESL family of communities”, remarked ESL President Phill Barklow. “The greater Richmond area is brimming with historical significance and character and we are thrilled to actively contribute to its promising future.”

The high level of enthusiasm is equally shared by Sancerre Atlee Station Executive Director Lauren Friedman. “The joy of the residents and families, in combination with the hearts and warmth of our staff has created such an amazing environment. The excitement is something that I have not seen in all my years in senior living.”

The design of Sancerre Atlee Station features a farmhouse modern aesthetic with a respectful nod to the character of the surrounding neighborhood and the area’s rich history. Luxury amenities and exterior services include outdoor dining, Gardens, Bocce Ball Court, walking paths, sunroom, and a relaxing covered porch. Interior features include a card room, art room, library, spa, fitness center with HUR equipment, theater, salon, live piano music, and a coffee bar with cafI seating.

Assisted living accommodations range from 396-square-foot studios up to 1,063-square-foot, two-bedroom units, with memory care studio units ranging from 321 to 376 square feet.

Sancerre Atlee Station is located at 9495 Atlee Road, Mechanicsville, VA 23116. For more information contact the community at 804-575-0420, or visit the website at experiencesrliving.com/sancerre-atlee-station.

About Experience Senior Living

Experience Senior Living is a full-service, vertically integrated owner, developer and operator of active adult, independent living, assisted living, and memory care communities. We are reimagining senior housing by leveraging our vast experience to seamlessly integrate strategic, operational and human-centered aspirations. We translate those experiences to create new and inspiring models of care focused on hospitality, which are responsive to residents’ needs and centered around holistic wellness and engagement with a broader community. Experience drives everything we do, and our team of dynamic professionals is fueled by their passion for empowering individuals to lead enriching lives at every stage of their journey. Experience Senior Living is based in Denver, with communities operating or under development in seven states: Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Maryland, Ohio, Virginia, and Washington.

Contact Info:
Kirstin Barbour
[email protected]
970-441-8100 

SOURCE Experience Senior Living

Film industry and government leaders join Oakwood Arts to discuss expanding Richmond region’s film industry


Oakwood Arts, a nonprofit based in Richmond’s Church Hill, strives to create access for underrepresented and under-resourced communities to work in creative industries.

TV One President Michelle Rice said, “At TV One and CLEO TV, we create opportunities for new and currently underrepresented talent both in front of and behind the lens. We are building a pipeline for the new generation of creatives, which aligns with the work that Oakwood is doing in Richmond.”

TV One and CLEO TV networks are wholly owned by Urban One, the largest African American-owned media company in the United States, which operates 55 radio stations and is majority owner of the syndicator Reach Media as well as its digital arm, Interactive One.

Urban One is a partner in the proposed Richmond Grand Resort and Casino. If approved by voters this fall, the resort will include a state-of-the-art film and television production facility that will be the City of Richmond’s only soundstage.

The company has committed to bringing $50 million in film and TV production to Richmond in its first 10 years of operation. That investment would support approximately five made-for-TV movies annually in Richmond, creating more jobs and apprenticeships in the media production industry.

Over the past two years, Urban One has been a sponsor of Oakwood Arts’ Creative Workforce Innovation programs, supporting two OA JET film training projects as well as a spring break camp for teens focused on sound design. Oakwood Arts runs the OA JET program, which provides technical training and job placement for emerging creatives from diverse backgrounds who are currently underrepresented in the film & television industry.

In February 2023, Oakwood Arts developed the first Registered Apprenticeship program in Virginia, offering career pathways in the field of motion picture and video production with the Virginia Department of Labor.

“A purpose-built soundstage with a full slate of content scheduled to be ready to be produced there would be an ideal place for apprentices from our program to gain valuable paid on-the-job experience,” said Castleman.

Participating in the Sept. 27 discussion:

Alfred Liggins — Chief Executive Officer, Urban One

Michelle Rice — President, TV One and CLEO TV

Shannon Castleman — Executive Director, Oakwood Arts

Donna Carvana — Apprenticeship Consultant, Virginia Department of Labor and Industry

Rae Cousins — Democratic Delegate-elect, 79th District

Jody Drewer – Senior Vice President/Chief Financial Officer, TV One

Andy Edmunds — Director, Virginia Film Office

BK Fulton — Film producer, CEO of Soulidifly Productions

David O’Ferrall — IATSE 487 Business Agent representing Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Virginia

Dr. Tiffany Jana — author and actor

Mike Kemetic, Community Organizer & DJ

Kinyette Newman — Senior Vice President of Production Finance & Chief of Staff to the Office of the President — TV One

Leonard Sledge — Director of Economic Development, City of Richmond

Steven Taylor — President, Virginia Production Alliance

Oakwood Arts Board of Directors members Katherine Brakman, Sly Tucker, Gordon Stettinius

Film industry professionals Paris Boynes, Amanda Durst and Alliannah Hamilton

Oakwood Arts staff and interns: Coby Flanagan, Ramsay Tapp and Julianne TrippCaption For Group Photo (IMG_6663): Some participants of the Sept. 27 discussion regarding expanding Richmond region’s film industry, taking photos outside of Oakwood Arts at 3511 P Street, Richmond VA. (From Left to Right) BK Fulton, Donna Carvana, Dr. Tiffany Jana, Shannon Castleman, Alliannah Hamilton, Paris Boynes, Gordon Stettinius, Ramsay Tapp, Jody Drewer, Katherine Brakman, Rae Cousins, David O’Ferrall, Alfred Liggins, Steven Taylor (back left), Amanda Durst, Coby Flanagan (top back), Michelle Rice, Mike Kemetic (front), Sly Tucker, and Kinyette Newman.

ABOUT TV ONE NETWORKS

TV One Networks is the hub of black culture and entertainment with a broad offering of original programming and classic series, serving both diverse audiences for TV One and CLEO TV. Launched in January 2004, TV One currently serves 44 million households and CLEO TV, launched in January 2019, is the sister network with a 41 million household reach. Each network has a unique audience that serves viewers with fan favorites from TV One such as Unsung, Uncensored, Fatal Attraction, Payback, Tough Love: Atlanta, Never Would Have Made It: The Marvin Sapp Story and Urban One Honors. While, CLEO TV, a lifestyle and entertainment network targeting Millennial and Gen X women of color, delivers content that uplifts and inspires today’s modern-day woman. Viewers of CLEO TV can expect award-winning content in both original and acquired series including Boss Girl’s Guide, Culture Kitchen, New Soul Kitchen, Just Eats with Chef JJ, Global Gourmet, Living By Design, Tia Mowry’s Quick Fix and All Things Adrienne House to Home. Both networks are solely owned by Urban One, Inc., formerly known as Radio One, Inc. [NASDAQ: UONE and UONEK, http://www.urban1.com , the largest African-American owned and operated multi-media company.

Media Contact

TV One PR, TV One, 2405241410, [email protected], TVOne.tv

SOURCE TV One