Category Archives: Society

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

Society: Social Services

Identity Theft Resource Center 2023 Business Impact Report Finds Record Level of Attacks Despite High Confidence in Defense

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Forty-two (42) percent of small businesses lost revenue due to a cyber event. While down three percentage points from 2022, more businesses saw other increased impacts, such as more customers losing trust (32 percent), higher regrettable employee turnover (32 percent) and increased difficulty understanding what happened. The financial impacts of cyber breaches continued to drop compared to previous years, with more small businesses reporting losses under $250,000 and fewer reporting higher dollar-value events. Cyber insurance emerged as the primary source of recovery funding (33 percent), followed by cash reserves. There was a slight increase in headcount reductions (13 percent) to address data breach costs.

Seventeen (17) percent of organizations that experienced a data breach did not send data breach notices to impacted consumers. Fifty (50) percent of those who did not send a notice said it was at the request of law enforcement, followed by 38 percent claiming no personal information was exposed. Twenty-one (21) percent said there was no risk of harm from the type of data compromised.

DOWNLOAD THE 2023 BUSINESS IMPACT REPORT

“The trends identified in the 2023 Business Impact Report follow the same patterns the ITRC has seen in our other reports around consumer impacts and data breaches,” said Eva Velasquez, President and CEO of the Identity Theft Resource Center. “We saw a spike in attacks in 2021 before a reduction last year due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine and disruption in the cryptocurrency markets. Identity crime markets have rebounded this year, leading to record levels of breaches, suicide rates, and business attacks.

The good news is that small business leaders are focused on data security and privacy protection. However, we still have a lot of work to do. We must accelerate the transition to newer protections and continue to develop new resources to assist victims based on solid research and unmistakable evidence.”

According to the 2023 Business Impact Report, most small businesses have not utilized tools such as Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for employee or customer use, mandatory strong passwords or role-based access for employee access to sensitive data. Depending on the solution, adoption rates range between 20 and 34 percent.

The report shows similar adoption rates for consumer data collection, use, and storage practices and policies designed to protect personal information and privacy. Adoption rates range from 21 to 37 percent, partly due to state laws requiring data best practices, including data access, opt-in to data collection, opt-out of data sales, and rights to correct and delete certain types of information.

The ITRC offers a range of low and no-cost tools to help small businesses. Consumers can receive free live victim support or guidance from a knowledgeable advisor by calling 888.400.5530 or visiting idtheftcenter.org to live chat.

About the ITRC 2023 Business Impact Report

The ITRC, using the SurveyMonkey platform, conducted an online survey to explore the impacts of cybercrimes on small businesses as defined by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The survey was conducted in September 2023, covering the previous 12 months unless otherwise noted in a specific question. The online questionnaire was completed by 551 individuals; 276 met the criteria of being a person in a leadership position or an IT professional at a company of 500 or fewer employees, including solopreneurs. One hundred ninety-nine (199) reported being the victim of a cyberattack, a data breach or both in the past 12 months. This year’s report reflects responses from businesses ranging from single-employee companies to organizations with 500 employees. The responses also reflect a wide range of industries with a slight concentration in retail entities. By far, the largest number of general survey responses came from people who identified as business owners or partners, followed by C-Suite Officers and Sr. Executives. Unless otherwise noted in a specific question, the term “breach” refers to both a data and security breach (successful cyberattack).

About the Identity Theft Resource Center‥‥‥

Founded in 1999, the Identity Theft Resource Center® (ITRC)‥is a‥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]‥‥‥

Media Contact

Alex Achten, Identity Theft Resource Center, 888-400-5530 x 3611, [email protected], www.idtheftcenter.org

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SOURCE Identity Theft Resource Center



Society: Social Services

New Virtual Lecture – Meteorites Found at or near Ancient Ruins in Central Arizona

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The Archaeological Conservancy is excited to announce a new virtual lecture “Meteorites Found at or near Ancient Ruins in Central Arizona” by Ken Zoll on October 26, 2023 at 5 PM MDT on Zoom Webinars.

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M., Oct. 23, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — The Archaeological Conservancy is excited to announce a new virtual lecture “Meteorites Found at or near Ancient Ruins in Central Arizona” on October 26, 2023 at 5 PM MDT on Zoom Webinars. This event will feature Ken Zoll, an expert in archaeology, rock art, and cultural astronomy. He is also a founding member of the Verde Valley Archaeological Center and Museum in Camp Verde, AZ and was its Executive Director from 2012-2022.

In this talk Ken will discuss meteorites that have been found at several ancient sites in the American Southwest. Four of these meteorites were in or near dwellings of the Sinagua Culture in Central Arizona. The Sinagua meteorites were determined to be part of the Canyon Diablo meteorite that created Meteor Crater near Flagstaff more than 50,000 years ago. Literature suggested that these specimens were manually transported to their locations by Native Americans hundreds of years ago. However, using recent research and modeling, the manuport hypothesis is questioned, resulting in an alternative conclusion. In addition, the estimated date of the destruction of one of the Sinagua ruins was confirmed using radiocarbon dating of charred material adhering to the meteorite that was found in the dwelling.

To register for the virtual lecture, please visit: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_1gEp9-uyRsWp5SEWAOXUeA or https://www.archaeologicalconservancy.org/virtual-lectures-2023/meteorites-and-ancient-ruins-in-central-arizona/

This lecture series is sponsored by The Archaeological Conservancy and is made possible in part with grant support from the New Mexico Humanities Council. It is free to our Members and the General Public.

*Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this (publication/program) do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities or the New Mexico Humanities Council.

About The Archaeological Conservancy

The Archaeological Conservancy, established in 1980, is the only national non-profit organization dedicated to acquiring and preserving the best of our nation’s remaining archaeological sites. Based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, the Conservancy also operates regional offices in Mississippi, Maryland, Wisconsin, and Nevada. The Conservancy has preserved over 585 sites across the nation.

Media Contact

Susan Bowdoin, The Archaeological Conservancy, 1 505-331-2927, [email protected], www.archaeologicalconservancy.org

SOURCE The Archaeological Conservancy

Society: Christianity

Michigan Business Entrepreneurs Elevate Latina Entrepreneurs with October Launch of Mujeres in Business: Michigan Edition

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In this new anthology, Flores and Sánchez showcase the inspiring journeys of 12 Latinas who have achieved remarkable success in the business world within Michigan, a state marked by its burgeoning Latino population and diverse economy. Each chapter delves into the personal and professional lives of these accomplished women, illuminating their origins, motivations, challenges, and triumphs.

The participating authors are the following:

  • María Cristina Aldana
  • Liza Alvarez
  • María Erazo
  • María Fernanda Gomez
  • Araceli Hernandez
  • Nohemi Herrera
  • Isabel Lopez Slattery
  • María Marquez
  • María Elena Morales Cardenas
  • Gloria Valeria Shneid
  • Pat Sosa VerDuin
  • Alejandra Walters

Sánchez expresses her excitement: “I’m very thankful for the support of my community to share with residents and other exceptional women the story of my life, my efforts, and what I have achieved. I feel deeply grateful and proud of my people. THANK YOU!”

Flores said she is “very grateful to the successful women who are part of this great project, which will be the beginning of countless achievements together and, without a doubt, an example of sisterhood and self-improvement for future generations. I would also like to thank the Mexican Consulate for its invaluable support, Wayne State University for its generosity, and for allowing us to celebrate this important launching event in its facilities, as well as the publishing house Fig Factor Media for its support in the commitment of this great project.”

The book is available on Amazon in English and Spanish. For more information about “Mujeres in Business,” visit mujeresinbiz.com.

About “Mujeres in Business: Michigan Edition”:
“Women in Business: Michigan Edition” was born with the idea of creating a solid connection between Latinas in the business field, supporting each other, and sharing our stories, successes, and opportunities to expand our horizons. Furthermore, we aspire to leave a legacy not only for our families, but the Latino community as a whole. We want to show future generations that, with perseverance and dedication, anything is possible.

This book also seeks to highlight the power and influence that Latinas have in the business world in Michigan, the different economic sectors and show the immense talent that exists throughout the state. It was not an easy task to find each of these talented women since Michigan is an exemplary mosaic of the great entrepreneurial and professional potential that Latinas have in the United States. With every page of this book, we hope to inspire other women to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams, strengthen our community, and leave a lasting mark in the business world.

Welcome to a journey that celebrates the excellence, empowerment, and entrepreneurial spirit of Latinas in Michigan! For more information, visit mujeresinbiz.com.

Media Contact

Marie Lazzara, JJR Marketing, 630-400-3361, [email protected], www.jjrmarketing.com

SOURCE Mujeres in Business

Society: Social Services

Register to Attend Silicon Valley Accelerator Pitch Session for Black Owned Businesses

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Almaz Negash, Founder and Executive Director of African Diaspora Network says, “Fostering economic growth relies on the pivotal steps of training, mentoring, and investing in Black entrepreneurs. The remarkable diversity and talent showcased by the participants of the Accelerating Black Leadership & Entrepreneurship (ABLE) program fill us with immense pride. They stand as living proof of the potential that exists within our community, poised to create a significant impact and flourish. The ABLE program serves as a model, demonstrating how addressing the distinctive requirements of Black founders can effectively bridge the opportunity divide and pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive, and equitable future for all.”

This year’s ABLE cohort comprises 11 remarkable entrepreneurs from eight different states: California, Delaware, Florida, Indiana, Ohio, New York, Washington, D.C., and Wisconsin. All participating enterprises in this third cohort are proudly 100% US-based, Black-owned, and span across nine diverse sectors, including Connectivity, Data-Tech, Education, Health-Tech, Health & Wellness, FinTech, Legal-Tech, Logistics, and Renewable Energy. Members of the ABLE cohort will present their ventures at an in-person pitch session, and graduation ceremony, to leading Silicon Valley investors, angel and impact investors, and venture capitalists, among others. Participants will also receive a modest stipend as a financial award upon completion of the program.

The African Diaspora Network oversees the implementation of ABLE, in partnership with Bill as the lead funder and the Silicon Valley Executive Center, Santa Clara University as academic partner. Other funders of ABLE include Makahama Foundation, Silicon Valley Community Foundation, California Black Freedom Fund, the County of Santa Clara, KLA Foundation, and Black Rock.

“It takes guts and grit for any entrepreneur to overcome obstacles and succeed. For African American entrepreneurs, having someone to turn to as they confront those obstacles can be challenging. We support ABLE as they provide critical resources and mentorship to help the next generation of African American entrepreneurs succeed. The energy and innovation these entrepreneurs bring is impressive, and we’re excited to support them.” said René Lacerte, CEO and Founder of BILL.

“The Leavey School of Business’s Silicon Valley Executive Center at Santa Clara University is proud to be the academic partner of the ABLE program with the African Diaspora Network. This program resonates with the Jesuit Catholic value of social justice and we are committed to addressing the funding gap for Black founders. We have enjoyed working with the ABLE Entrepreneurs in Cohort 3 and are excited to accompany each of them on their entrepreneurial journeys.” said Dennis Lanham, Senior Assistant Dean and Executive Director of the Silicon Valley Executive Center at Santa Clara University

ABLE was launched in 2021 and 27 Black entrepreneurs have since graduated from the program. ABLE provides Black entrepreneurs with mentorship and entrepreneurship training that addresses the challenges faced by Black-owned businesses in the U.S., access to funders, and financial support.

“Being part of this Cohort has been an extraordinary blessing. As an entrepreneur of color, it’s common to experience moments of isolation on our journey, but ABLE has not only provided me with inspiration but also equipped me with essential tools and an empowering community, propelling my journey forward” said Rhode Malivert; CEO, K12 Preparatory Academy and ABLE 2023 cohort member.

For more information about ABLE, please email [email protected] or visit http://www.africandiasporanetwork.org

About African Diaspora Network
African Diaspora Network (ADN) is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit membership organization. Our mission is to harness and engage the intellectual, financial, philanthropic and entrepreneurial capacity of Africans and friends of Africa in support of economic and social development across Africa. Since 2010, the African Diaspora Network has energized collaboration among Silicon Valley entrepreneurs, philanthropists and African Diasporans to uplift its local community towards the benefit of Africa. ADN is dedicated to providing virtual and physical forums to accelerate access to resources that foster partnership, knowledge sharing, and advance investment opportunities.

Media Contact

Brett Cave, African Diaspora Network, +14047200027, [email protected], www.africandiasporanetwork.org 

SOURCE African Diaspora Network

Society: Social Services

Prancer Enterprise Awarded Patent for Groundbreaking Automated Penetration Testing Technology

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“Our newly patented technology is a game-changer in the realm of cybersecurity, offering a robust and revolutionary solution to the growing challenges of securing cloud applications” said Farshid Mahdavipour, CEO of Prancer Enterprise. “This patent is a testament to our relentless pursuit of innovation and our commitment to delivering superior security solutions to our clients.”

Prancer’s Penetration Testing as a Code engine is a core component of the company’s comprehensive security services, offering a seamless integration of intelligent fuzzers and security policies to secure applications pre-deployment and continuously during runtime. This technology significantly reduces the time and costs associated with traditional penetration testing, marking a significant stride toward more proactive and cost-effective cybersecurity strategies.

This patent achievement follows Prancer’s notable recognition in Gartner’s Hype Cycle for Security Operations, 2023, specifically in the Automated Penetration Testing and Red Teaming Technology section, underscoring the firm’s continuous innovation in the cybersecurity landscape.

Prancer Enterprise continues to set the pace in delivering robust and comprehensive security solutions, helping organizations navigate the complex cybersecurity challenges of the modern digital era.

For more information about Prancer Enterprise and its patented automated penetration testing technology, visit https://www.prancer.io.

About Prancer Enterprise
Prancer Enterprise is a leading cybersecurity startup specializing in Automated Offensive Security solutions. With its innovative approach and top-tier products like Prancer PenSuite AI, the company continues to shape the future of cybersecurity, providing unparalleled solutions for large enterprises worldwide. Please visit the Prancer website for more information : https://www.prancer.io

Media Contact

Paris Samani, Prancer Enterprise, 4246664586, [email protected], https://www.prancer.io

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SOURCE Prancer Enterprise



Society: Social Services

Expo Home Improvement Celebrates Partnership with Roaring Lambs

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Texas home improvement company celebrates continued partnership.

CARROLLTON, Texas, Oct. 20, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Expo Home Improvement, a leading provider of home improvement services, is pleased to announce its continued support for Roaring Lambs, a prominent non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and nurturing creative talents and community engagement within Christianity. In celebration of their long-standing partnership, Expo Home Improvement will be a sponsor at the Roaring Lambs Gala.

Who is Roaring Lambs?

Roaring Lambs was founded on the belief that creative expression has the power to transform lives and communities. Expo Home Improvement’s vision aligns with Roaring Lambs’ mission of transforming lives through inspiring and empowering individuals using various forms of creative expression, from writing to the visual arts.

The Roaring Lambs Gala, set to take place on October 21, 2023, is an event that promises to be a memorable evening of celebration, entertainment, and philanthropy. “We are excited to be attending and sponsoring the gala this year,” said Amanda McDaniel, VP of Brand & Culture of Expo Home Improvement, “as we strive to provide value to our community through any means.” Expo Home Improvement will not only be a financial supporter but will also have a visible presence at the gala, showcasing their dedication to Roaring Lambs’ mission.

How You Can Support Roaring Lambs:

Expo Home Improvement is proud to contribute to this organization’s endeavors by providing a donation that will support Roaring Lambs in their efforts to encourage creativity, community involvement, and personal growth. Expo Home Improvement has pledged to donate $100 to the organization for every home remodeling consultation that is completed where Roaring Lambs is mentioned. In addition to that, should the project move forward, the company will donate an additional 5% of said project back to Roaring Lambs. This donation reflects Expo Home Improvement’s dedication to fostering a positive impact in the community and upholding its commitment to social responsibility.

For more information about the organization or to show your support, please visit www.roaringlambs.org.

Media Contact

Expo Home Improvement, Expo Home Improvement, 1 972-833-1558, [email protected], Expo Home Improvement

SOURCE Expo Home Improvement

Society: Disabled Issues / Disabilities

Catholics for Change in Our Church Announces Inclusive Mass on October 22

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Catholics for Change in Our Church (CCOC) will be holding an inclusive Mass on October 22, 2023, in the North Hills area of Pittsburgh. The theme will be “The Church Welcoming – No Exceptions”, making a special appeal to Catholics who feel marginalized within their own Church.

PITTSBURGH, Oct. 20, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Catholics for Change in Our Church (CCOC), an independent organization of Catholics seeking a greater role for the laity in the Church, will be holding an inclusive Mass on October 22, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. at the Kearns Spirituality Center located in the North Hills area of Pittsburgh. The theme “The Church Welcoming – No Exceptions” references the Pastoral Letter of Pittsburgh Bishop David Zubik of August 2023, making a special appeal to Catholics who feel marginalized within their own Church.

The Mass is also in response to the cancellation of the CCOC Mass in June 2023 which was to be in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ Catholic community. CCOC Board President Kevin Hayes met with Bishop Zubik after the cancellation to discuss ways the Catholic Church could be more welcoming to marginalized Catholics.

“There was much hurt and disappointment among Catholics in Pittsburgh when the June mass was canceled,” said Hayes. “It also became clear that in addition to LGBTQ+ Catholics, other Catholics felt marginalized. This includes Catholics who are ethnic minorities, addicts or recovering addicts, divorced, homeless, as well as many women in their own Church. The Mass on October 22 invites and seeks to make all Catholics welcome in the celebration of the Eucharist, expressing the love and mercy of God through commemorating the passion and resurrection of Jesus. CCOC hopes that Bishop Zubik might consider having a similar Mass for the entire diocese, and encourages parishes to have similar celebrations.”

Kearns Spirituality Center is a ministry of the Sisters of Divine Providence. It is located at 9000 Babcock Boulevard, Pittsburgh, PA 15101, and is adjacent to Passavant Hospital and the campus of LaRoche University.

The presider for the Mass will be Fr. John Oesterle. The guest Scripture commentator will be Consuelo “Chelo” Cruz. She is a former nun and an immigrant from Mexico who has lived in Pittsburgh for 25 years. Cruz practices as a counselor helping indigenous populations and those who identify as LGBTQ+. She is also active in her parish and a catechist there. Cruz has two daughters who are members of the LGBTQ+ community.

“As a lifelong Catholic, who works with marginalized Catholics, and the mother of two members of the LGBTQ+ community, I know we as a Church can be and need to be more welcoming,” said Chelo Cruz. “I look forward to participating in the October 22 CCOC Mass that seeks to welcome everyone to the altar of Jesus Christ in a gesture of love and fellowship. I hope any Catholic looking for such an experience will attend, and also that parishes and even Bishop Zubik will have similar Masses in the future.”

About CCOC:

Catholics for Change in Our Church (CCOC) is an independent organization of 1200+ concerned, committed Catholics, based in Pittsburgh, formed to affirm the laity’s rightful role of co-responsibility in the Church. The goal of CCOC is to bring about positive changes grounded in working collaboratively with the clergy and having the qualities of transparency, accountability, and competency. For more information and resources or to get involved, please visit CCOC-pgh.org.

Media Contact

Kevin Hayes, CCOC, 1 412-759-5782, [email protected], CCOC-pgh.org

Jan Hayes, CCOC, 1 412-956-1262, [email protected], CCOC-pgh.org

SOURCE CCOC

Society: Christianity

Frederick Community College and The Arc to Host Employment Summit On October 27, 2023

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Supporting Local Businesses to Include People with Disabilities in the Workforce

FREDERICK, Md., Oct. 20, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Frederick Community College and The Arc of Frederick County are partnering to host The 2023 Employment Summit: Supporting Local Businesses to Include People with Disabilities in the Workforce. The summit will take place on October 27, 2023 from 8:00 am to noon at Frederick Community College’s Conference Center, E126 A/B

A goal of the Employment Summit is to reach out to the business community highlighting the talented pool of people with disabilities in Frederick County looking to join the workforce as well as the supports businesses can receive from local provider agencies and Frederick County Public Schools when businesses employ people with disabilities.

Employment Summit activities will begin with a light breakfast and networking from 8:00 am to 8:30 am; followed by warm welcomes from Frederick Community College and the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce. Informative breakout sessions will begin at 9:00am and run through noon, with closing remarks from the Frederick County Office of Economic Development.

Please join us for an informative morning to support inclusion in the workforce in Frederick County!

Media Contact

Aaron Stephens, The Arc of Frederick County, (301) 663-0909, [email protected] 

SOURCE The Arc of Frederick County

Society: Christianity

Native Indigenous Film Festival Surpasses Sundance, Tribeca, TIFF, Cannes and the Oscars!

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28th Red Nation International Film Festival announces lineup of 80 films, 45 directed by women, 40 women screenwriters.

LOS ANGELES , Oct. 19, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — 

“Festival theme 2023: ‘Only One Water.’ Amplifying women filmmakers for environmental and social justice. Joanelle Romero, RNIFF founder and president. Milestones: 162 films directed by women in the last six years. RNIFF celebrates authentic Native cinema.”

Media Contact

Liz Kramer, Red Nation Celebration Institute, 1 8186655753, [email protected], https://www.rednationff.com

SOURCE Red Nation Celebration Institute