Category Archives: Society: Social Services

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

Society: Social Services

Ziegler Closes $118,330,000 Financing Emerald Heights (WA)

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Eastside Retirement Association d/b/a Emerald Heights (the “Borrower” or the “Community”), is a Washington nonprofit corporation and 501(c)(3) organization that was established in 1979 to develop, own and operate senior living facilities. The Community is a CCRC in Redmond, Washington, approximately 17 miles northeast of Seattle. Today, Emerald Heights’ 38-acre wooded campus consists of 333 independent living units, including both apartments and cottages, 40 licensed assisted living beds, 16 memory care units and 61 skilled nursing beds.

The Series 2023 Bonds (the “Bonds”) are rated “A-” by Fitch and were issued through the Washington State Housing Finance Commission. The Bonds consist of Series 2023A permanent tax-exempt fixed interest rate bonds structured to achieve level debt service through final maturity on May 15, 2048, Series 2023B-1 and B-2 Bonds are short-term TEMPS-85SM and TEMPS-65SM. The Series 2023A Bonds are callable on 7/1/2029 @ 103; DTP in 2032.

The proceeds of the Bonds will be used primarily to: (i) refinance the Series 2013 Bonds, (ii) fund the construction and equipping of 54 new assisted living units, a sky bridge connecting these units to the main independent living building, (iii) fund the construction of the Courtyard Expansion project consisting of 42 new independent living units, (iv) refinance the Series 2022 construction loan, and (v) pay certain costs of issuance.

Lisa Hardy, President and CEO of Emerald Communities, stated, “This was a complicated financing with several moving parts. We were taking out a bank construction loan and swap for the courtyard project, refinancing 2013 bonds as well as the new money for our new assisted living project that we just broke ground on. All of that with a volatile market and Fitch downgrading U.S. credit a week before we priced our bonds was nerve racking to say the least. It was crucial to us to have Ziegler as our investment banker as we navigated all of the complex dynamics of this financing. Working with Sarkis and the Ziegler team we accomplished a very successful financing and we couldn’t be happier with our partnership with Ziegler.”

Sarkis Garabedian, Managing Director, said “Emerald Heights is a premier life plan community with a strong track record of performance. It has been 10 years since Emerald Heights accessed the capital markets and they were greeted with strong investor demand, despite a volatile bond market. The financing was well oversubscribed with a deep book of institutional investors. Interest rates at the low end of the range, a new more flexible legal structure and favorable covenants and terms combine to make this financing a home run for Emerald Heights.”

Ziegler is the nation’s leading underwriter of financings for not-for-profit senior living providers. Ziegler offers creative, tailored solutions to its senior living clientele, including investment banking, financial risk management, merger and acquisition services, seed capital, FHA/HUD, capital and strategic planning as well as senior living research, education, and communication.

For more information about Ziegler, please visit us at http://www.ziegler.com.

About Ziegler:
Ziegler is a privately held, national boutique investment bank, capital markets and proprietary investments firm. It has a unique focus on healthcare, senior living and education sectors, as well as general municipal and structured finance. Headquartered in Chicago with regional and branch offices throughout the U.S., Ziegler provides its clients with capital raising, strategic advisory services, fixed income sales, underwriting and trading as well as Ziegler Credit, Surveillance and Analytics. To learn more, visit http://www.ziegler.com.

Certain comments in this news release represent forward-looking statements made pursuant to the provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. This client’s experience may not be representative of the experience of other clients, nor is it indicative of future performance or success. The forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, in particular, the overall financial health of the securities industry, the strength of the healthcare sector of the U.S. economy and the municipal securities marketplace, the ability of the Company to underwrite and distribute securities, the market value of mutual fund portfolios and separate account portfolios advised by the Company, the volume of sales by its retail brokers, the outcome of pending litigation, and the ability to attract and retain qualified employees.

Media Contact

Christine McCarty, Zielger, 3125961617, [email protected], www.ziegler.com

SOURCE Zielger

Society: Social Services

National Outdoor Furniture, Inc. Releases “Public Park Safety”

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“The foundation of a safe park rests upon a holistic approach that considers its visitors’ comfort, vigilance, and well-being,” according to National Outdoor Furniture, Inc. Surveillance cameras, dedicated safety personnel, rules enforcement, and emphasis on visibility are factors that have a large impact on a park’s safety. Specific to playgrounds, visibility for supervision, frequent equipment inspections, and cushioned floor surfaces are important safety features.

To learn more about public park safety, please visit National Outdoor Furniture, Inc. here.

About National Outdoor Furniture, Inc.:
National Outdoor Furniture, Inc. specializes in commercial outdoor furniture including picnic tables, park benches, trash receptacles, bike racks, and aluminum bleachers. Founded in 1998, National Outdoor Furniture, Inc. prides itself on providing customers with products that are high-quality and backed by a manufacturer warranty. Their products can be found in parks and gathering areas across the United States.

Media Contact

Deron Nakamura, National Outdoor Furniture, Inc., 888-663-4621, [email protected], https://www.nationaloutdoorfurniture.com

SOURCE National Outdoor Furniture, Inc.

Society: Social Services

Elle Baez Takes to the Runway to Advocate for Mental Health

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Break Free NYFW, a designer showcase with a cause, announces their featured speakers, performers, and sponsors for their up-and-coming runway show.

NEW YORK, Aug. 30, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Break Free NYFW, a designer showcase with a cause, announces their featured speakers, performers, and sponsors for their up-and-coming runway show featuring fashion designers such as OIT Fitness a size-inclusive activewear brand, RaccoonGuts a Toronto based upcycle design house, NYFW Veterans Heritage India Fashions, Sonal Couture, & JulissaDesigns, and NYC natives Just Us Kidz and Rehab Studios.

The Break Free NYFW Designer Showcase is being held on Monday, September 11th, which is being held during National Recovery Month, a month to celebrate those who have sought recovery from a substance use disorder, and to encourage others to seek ways to gain sobriety and to live a sober lifestyle.

The proceeds from this showcase will go towards the Break Free Foundation’s scholarship fund, which provides scholarships for those seeking treatment for a substance use disorder through attending a rehabilitation and outpatient center at low to no cost to them.

For the upcoming Break Free NYFW showcase, our guest speakers include Christine Jeberg from BigVision, who will be giving a Narcan demonstration on the runway, and, Alexandra Nyman, the founder of the Break Free Foundation.

Performing on the runway will be body-positivity advocate Elle Baez, and Boi Angel. Elle is known for empowering and inspiring others through her captivating hooks, body-positive music videos, versatile writing style, and motto of self-love. Elle just recently dropped her new hit single “Fuego” which was featured in Rolling Stone!

As a songwriter, Elle has also been featured by the Grammy’s, and has opened for charting artist Bea Miller, went on a VS Pink Sponsored Tour, and will be opening for Leah Kate this October! Boi Angel is a fresh face to the music scene as well as being in recovery. With nearly a year under his belt, Boi Angel can be described as a breath of fresh air in the alternative R&B/Rap/Pop scene, and he is quickly becoming one of the most exciting and dynamic artists in the genre. With his unique voice, innovative production, and thoughtful lyrics, Boi Angel is definitely an artist to watch in the coming years.

This showcase is sponsored by Phoenix House, Seasons in Malibu, Curious Elixirs, and Mobilize Recovery, with additional support from Front Society, Vita Health, The Embrace Family Recovery Podcast, the New York Makeup Academy, the Paul Mitchell School, Pavilion, Sanzo, Liquid Death, AVEC, GrRvi, Ritual, Flyers, Rehab Studios, The Break Free Foundation, Mocktail Mart, Ceria, NAMI NYC, BigVision, Third Place Bar, Fat Tiger, and so many more.

At 6 pm when the doors open, guests will be treated to an exclusive tasting of Curious Elixir’s product line, featuring four of their elixirs for attendees to taste and sip on while they wait for the show to begin.

At 8:30 pm when the runway show ends, guests can enjoy Break Free’s exclusive after-party, presented by Curious Elixirs, who will be continuing their tasting, and will also feature a pop-up bar experience from Third Place Bar + Andres from Fat Tiger. Third Place Bar is a series of alcohol-free events at several different venues in Manhattan & Brooklyn. They aim to provide a social space that has all of the vibes of a neighborhood bar for those who are sober, sober curious, or just taking a night off from drinking.

All of our sponsors, speakers, designers, and performers have come together to share the story of how mental health and substance use has impacted their lives, and to celebrate recovery month with all who attend this showcase. The Break Free NYFW Designer Showcase will be held on Monday, September 11th at 230 Fifth in the Empire Ballroom. Tickets are available at Eventbrite.com.

Media Contact

Alexandra Nyman, Break Free Foundation, 1 5703690325, [email protected], Break Free Foundation

SOURCE Break Free Foundation

Society: Social Services

Mercury Insurance Advises Policyholders to Prepare for Hurricane Idalia

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“Hurricane Idalia is forecasted to bring severe wind and rain to South Georgia over the next 48 hours,” says Bonnie Lee, Vice President of Property Claims at Mercury Insurance. “Now is the time to take action, before the storm hits. Create a plan with your family so everyone knows where to go, what to pack and how to get your home ready. This way, you won’t be caught off-guard if the hurricane is heading your way and you’re instructed to evacuate.”

Lee advises homeowners to take the following steps to prepare their homes for a hurricane:

  • Pack go-bag. There are several essential items to have at the ready in case of an emergency, especially if you need to leave your home quickly. A primary go-bag – or emergency kit – should be stored in an easily accessible place within your house or garage. Smaller kits can be kept in your car or at work. Take stock of your go-bag yearly to make sure your items are up-to-date, including:
  • A three-day supply of water (one gallon per person), non-perishable food items and pet food, if applicable;
  • A battery-powered or hand-crank radio (and extra batteries);
  • A phone charger;
  • A flashlight;
  • A first aid kit;
  • A whistle to signal for help;
  • A can opener;
  • Gloves, face masks, hand sanitizer and antibacterial wipes;
  • Blankets;
  • Pliers or a wrench to turn off utilities;
  • At least $200 in cash in small bills, as power may be out, making ATMs, debit and credit cards unusable; and
  • Prescriptions for you, your family and your pets.

“Homeowners insurance doesn’t usually cover weather-related flooding, but flood insurance is available through the National Flood Insurance Program. If you live in a high-risk area, consider purchasing a policy,” adds Lee. “Vehicle damage may be covered by your auto insurance policy if you carry comprehensive coverage, but it’s best to make sure. Your local Mercury Insurance agent is able to help verify what is and is not covered in the event you’re affected by a hurricane.”

Auto and Homeowner policyholders affected by the storm can file a claim through Mercury’s web-based app or by telephone. Drivers filing a claim digitally will be directed through a series of easily understood prompts. Customers will also be able to indicate where their vehicle was damaged as well as their location, along with any photos submitted from their smartphones, allowing them to file their claim quickly and accurately.

Mercury advises all policyholders to follow a few simple procedures to help speed up the claims process if your home or vehicle is affected by a hurricane.

When filing a claim

  •     Contact Mercury immediately to report your loss.
  •     Be prepared to provide your policy number.
  •     Do not remove debris or damaged property that may be related to your claim.

Steps after filing a claim

  •     Prepare a detailed inventory of destroyed or damaged property.
  •     Offer photos or videos of your home and possessions to your claims representative.
  •     Keep copies of communications between you and your claims representative.
  •     Keep records and receipts for additional living expenses that were incurred if you were forced to leave your home, and provide copies to your claims representative.

Additional hurricane preparedness resources:
NOAA National Weather Service: http://www.weather.gov/safety.php
American Red Cross: http://www.redcross.org/getprepared
Federal Emergency Management Agency: http://www.ready.gov

Visit Mercury’s Catastrophe Center to learn more about how to protect yourself, your family and your property before a natural disaster happens.

About Mercury Insurance
Mercury Insurance (NYSE: MCY) is a multiple-line insurance carrier predominantly offering personal auto, homeowners and renters insurance through a network of independent agents in Arizona, California, Georgia, Illinois, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Texas and Virginia, as well as auto insurance in Florida. Mercury writes other lines of insurance in various states, including commercial, business owners and business auto, landlord, home-sharing, ride-hailing and mechanical protection insurance.

Since 1962, Mercury has provided customers with tremendous value for their insurance dollar by pairing ultracompetitive rates with excellent customer service. Mercury has earned “A” ratings from A.M. Best and Fitch, as well as “Best Auto Insurance Company” designations from Forbes and Insure.com. For more information visit https://www.mercuryinsurance.com/ or follow the company on Twitter or Facebook.

Media Contact

Shane Smith, Mercury Insurance, (424) 903-3665, [email protected], mercuryinsurance.com

SOURCE Mercury Insurance

Society: Social Services

$5 Million in College Scholarships Awarded to High School Juniors Through Horatio Alger State Scholarship Program

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The Horatio Alger Association awards college scholarships valued at $10,000 or more through its State Scholarship Program

WASHINGTON, Aug. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans, Inc., a nonprofit educational organization honoring the achievements of remarkable individuals and encouraging youth to pursue their dreams through higher education, today announced the recipients of its prestigious 2024 Horatio Alger State Scholarship. These annual scholarships recognize outstanding students from across the nation who remain committed to pursuing higher education despite facing great personal adversity.

The Horatio Alger Association was established in 1947 to encourage young people to pursue their version of the American Dream. Since the establishment of its scholarship programs in 1984, the Horatio Alger Association has become one of the largest privately funded, need-based scholarship providers in the United States and Canada. Today, through its Members, the Association continues educating students about the economic and personal opportunities afforded them through the two nations’ free-enterprise systems. By the 40th anniversary of the Association’s scholarship program in 2024, more than $247 million will be awarded in undergraduate, graduate, military veteran and career and technical education scholarships to more than 37,000 deserving students.

“Through our State Scholarship program, we provide more than just the financial means for students to further their education. We offer well-rounded support including mentorship and internship opportunities, financial aid counseling, mental health services and more,” says James F. Dicke II, chairman of the Association and 2015 Horatio Alger Award recipient. “We are proud to invest in talented and determined students – students we know will make a tremendous impact on their communities and beyond.”

“It is a joy to see students across the nation gain access to higher education through Horatio Alger State Scholarships, said Terrence J. Giroux, the executive director of the Association. “For lower-income students, college is often just out of reach, simply because of financial barriers. Providing equal access to higher education ensures every student has the opportunity to pursue their dreams.”

The 2024 Horatio Alger State Scholars come from households with an average annual income of $25,514 while maintaining an average GPA of 3.88. Each State Scholarship recipient is awarded $10,000 to apply toward educational costs of the college or university of their choice.

State Scholarships are funded through the generosity of the following individuals and organizations:

  • Al and Cathy Annexstad (Minnesota)
  • Argyros Family Foundation (George Argyros Sr.) (California)
  • Crown Equipment Corporation, in honor of Horatio Alger Member James F. Dicke II (Ohio)
  • Daniels Fund (R. James Nicholson) (Colorado)
  • Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation (, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, Ohio, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Virginia)
  • Estate of Dorothy Girard (Florida)
  • Francis T. & Louise T. Nichols Foundation (Maine, Vermont)
  • Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher, LLP, in honor of Horatio Alger Association Member Gregory E. Abel (New York)
  • Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans (Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin)
  • Horatio Alger Association Endowment Fund (, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, , Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming)
  • Horatio Alger Association Members:
    • James R. Andrews (Alabama)
    • The Beale Family Foundation (Donald R. Beall) (California)
    • The Buntrock Foundation (Dean L. Buntrock) (Illinois, South Dakota)
    • Doris K. Christopher (Illinois)
    • James L. Clayton Sr. (Tennessee)
    • Terry M. Giles (Texas)
    • The Goergen Foundation, Inc. (Robert Blyth Goergen) (Florida)
    • William E. Greehey & Lauree Bruce Greehey (Texas)
    • Craig and Kathryn Hall Foundation (Texas)
    • (Haslam Family Foundation(James A. Haslam II) (Tennessee)
    • RD and Joan Dale Hubbard Foundation (New Mexico)
    • K. Michael Ingram (Arizona)
    • Alan B. Miller (Pennsylvania)
    • Patrick G. Ryan (Illinois)
    • Peter and Julie . Stott Foundation (Oregon)
    • Chris T. Sullivan Foundation (Florida)
    • Marcia G. Taylor (Wyoming)
    • Lenard B. & Fern Tessler (New York)
    • John Weiland (New Jersey)
    • George A. Weiss Massachusetts)
  • Liautaud Family Foundation (Jimmy John Liautaud) (Indiana)
  • Lift-a-Life Foundation (Navid C. Novak), (Kentucky)
  • Mrs. Michele Rollins and the Rollins Family, in honor of Horatio Alger Association Member John W. Rollins, Sr. (Delaware)
  • The Anschultz Foundation (Philipp Anschultz) (Colorado)
  • The Brinson Foundation (Gary P. Brinson) (Illinois)
  • The Charles &Hilda Anderson Foundation (Alabama)
  • The Neubauer Family Foundation (Joseph Neubauer) (Pennsylvania)
  • The Lynn and Foster Freiss Family Endowment Stewardship Fund (Wyoming)
  • The O. Wayne Rollins Foundation (Georgia)
  • Peter Hanlon, in honor of Horatio Alger Association Gregory E. Abel (New York)
  • Ronald C. Waranch Foundation (California, Texas)
  • Uptake Technologies, in honor of Horatio Alger Association Member Gregory E. Abel (Illinois)
  • Vestas- American Wind Technology, in honor of Horatio Alger Association Member Gregory E. Abel (Iowa, Oregon)

For more information about the Horatio Alger Association and to see a full listing of its 2023 State Scholars, please click here. Follow the organization on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans:

Founded in 1947, the Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans, Inc. is dedicated to the simple but powerful belief that hard work, honesty and determination can conquer all obstacles. The Association honors the achievements of outstanding leaders who have accomplished remarkable successes in spite of adversity by bestowing upon them the Horatio Alger Award and inducting them as lifetime Members. Horatio Alger Members support promising young people with the resources and confidence needed to overcome adversity in pursuit of their dreams through higher education. Through the generosity of its Members and friends, in 2022, the Association awarded more than $18 million in undergraduate and graduate need-based scholarships to over 1,800 students across the United States and Canada, and provided college support and mentoring services to its Scholars. By the 40th anniversary of the Association’s scholarship program in 2024, more than $247 million will be awarded in undergraduate, graduate, military veteran and career and technical education scholarships to more than 37,000 deserving students. For more information, please visit www.horatioalger.org.

2024 Horatio Alger State Scholars

Alabama: Riley Anderson, AlTerrius Beasley, Craig Davis, Brianna Flores, Mathieu Michell,Theresa Nguyen, Aleigha Poole, Jakaden Preyear

Alaska: Isabelle Carig, Katrina Katoanga

Arizona: Jenna Bogda, Maria Campos, Gweneth Felo, Nicolo Greco, Cristian Jeronimo, Natalie Medrano Mosqueda, Hawa Muya, Ana Vigil Rios, Samantha Young

Arkansas: Emily Alexander, Emily Ashby, Claire Clifton, Kira Forrest-Mock, Hailey Langley, Bianca Thomas, Madi Wood

California: Roberto Adame, Hannah Anderson, Drew Barranco Landa, Miguel Angel, Trinity Cortez-Ansley, Ivan Cruz, Susan Cruz, Kimmy Dang, Scott Eisenberg, Paris Falcon, Isabella Gamble, Priti Garcia, Jonathan Garnica, Antonio Garza, Emily Ha, Kelly Ha, Alex Herrera Martinez, Madison Jackson, Ana Jochola, Avalon Kail, Allyssa Kirkpatrick, Kalina Lee, Leyun Liu, Andy Maldonado, Anasol Martinez-Garcia, Brenda Mendoza, Jesus Michel, Karla Moralez, Noor Muhammad, Brandon Navarrete, Pedro Nevarez, Fatima Olvera, Aniela Patalita, Adoniya Paul, Andrea Perez, Oliver Petersen, Iris Pichardo, Emily Rodriguez, Johnathan Ruiz, Isaiah Sabiniano, Simone Smith, Azra Tabak, Jaquelyn Trovar Diaz, Jazmine Trinh, Jaycee Tyler, Santiago Vega, Vianey Velez, Edward Wang, Radchel Wong, Edgar Zarate, Mandy Zhao

Colorado: Kaitlin Cassell, Analysia Maes, Blair Minnard, Gianna Mirshamsi, Sityena Muzeyen, Maximilian Nacius, Giselle Peneda, Peyton Porter, Alana Tran

Connecticut: Aemun Burhan, Cassandra Burke Mya Byone, Ashlyn Flood, Alona Gunn, Katheryn Regan, Mia Rivera

Delaware: Sultan Darimaz, Vivan Felipe-Lucas, Alexis Hagaman, Elena Tamba

Florida: Aisa Canetti, Aelexys Carley, Amber Carpio, Karla Chavez, Elizabeth De Jesus, Sena Dooley, Raya Feraydooni, Taylor Low, Cristobal Lugardo-Lopez, Carys Martinez, Shekena Mompremier, Jasi-Ann Moore, Ana Paulino Melo, Salma Rabizadeh, Yasmin Ramirez, Christopher Raphael, Xhevia Rolo, Lailyn Valenzuela

Georgia: Jean Absin, Gabrielle Bankston, Marrissa Bastein, Lucas Bauza, Bosquez, Kloie Brewster, Azaria Burts, Taiyana Church, Orit Endalk, Gracy Garcia, Miriam Garcia, Jaylon Garrett, Martin Gonzalez, Sophia Guo, Gutierrez Reyes, Lapidoth Lyola, Nashra Kahn, Gabriela Lowe, Madison Lowrance, Haggith Martinez, Matthew McCrory, Nathan Mercer, Nohemi Neri, Lyric Parrish, Jessie Pitckett, Sheridan Pruitt, Rebeca Reyes, Pauline Sanders, Gracy Wah, Samuel Woldegiorgis, Mireya Yanez, Aaron Yang, Moira Yim

Hawaii: Memphis Savage, Helen Tien Tran

Idaho: Abigail Fitzgerald, Kasey Hendren, Katelyn Kinyon, Jonathan Munoz, Britany Phillips, Kaylee Walker

Illinois: Areen Al-Safarini, Savannah Barnes, Jaretsy Espinosa, Christian Fithian-Moralez, Jaleesa Hamilton, Tyrah Jenkins, Ashley Lamberti, Manuela Maco, Ivan Martinez, Steffini McDowell, Edgar Nava, Tiniah Perkins, Bella Ramirez, Daisy Rodriguez, Alexa Santillan Mondragon, Delaney Sievers, Katlin Tripp

Indiana: Tameen Alfaress, Blake Braden, Breanna Brooks, Maxwell Burton, Kerry Guo, Ethan Huber, Jasmine Iniguez, Ahtziri Pelayo, Jetzabel Rivera-Lopez, Laci Roy

Iowa: Lexi Althieser, Lexie Bingham, Jed Lake, Siomara Luna-Garcia, Olivia Marti, Sydney Schmuecker, Anh Tran, Gabriella Vega

Kansas: Onyx Galarneau, Sofia Garza, Dustin Monroe, Anthony Mosey, Gabbriella Sammon, Anahi Sanchez, Emerson Cardoza

Kentucky: Emerson Cardoza, Rene East, Landan Eirk, Brittany Hamilton, Kaylea Maynard, Amy Roblero-Perez, Zion Scott, Noah Yarbrough

Louisiana: Kennedy Barber, Ryan Beyeaux, Amir Capps, Destin Carlin, Keagan Griffin, Xichen He, Gabriella Nguyen, Estelle Welch

Maine: Colin Dunn, Kayliy Folco, Cassandra Kromer, Hope Nadeau, Destiney Samare

Maryland: Kaitlyn Bassford, Rebeccah Durandis, Joy Gyamfi, Van Le Tran, Steven Liang, Hillary Ojeikere, Opeyemi Oyewusi, Aaeris Pourghassemi, Naomi Tadesse, Brianan Teal, Akiru Udwattage

Massachusetts: Julia Acampora, Cindy Gomez, jamilah Kasozi, Sophia Ngo, Kacie O’Brien, Aisosa Oviasogie, Nateh Claudia Panyere, Abraham Periera, Joshua Rodgriguez Ortiz

Michigan: Christine Balde, Kimberly Barron, Annon Billingsley, Jeniya Coleman, Audrey Cooper, Welles Harrington, Jesse Hartman, Ahmed Jawad, Le’la-Joy Matthews, Sophia Monticelli, Kaylyn Moore, Jorja Napier, Nevaeh Nesbitt, Kaden Pokora, Ava Williams

Minnesota: Kowsar Ahmed, Savanah Chapel, Ariel Fang, Lavendar Lee, Lena Lee, Allaura Mandelbaum, Emmerson McCorquodale, Xiani Medina, Ti Reh, Angie Thao, Jorge Vargas

Mississippi: Ingrid Flores, Kelis Malone, Colby Martin, Hannah Oswalt, Candace Schwartz, Markavia Thompson, Cindy Tran

Missouri: Yuridia Abrego,Karrolynne Brundridge, Bryson Gates, Olivia Goehrig, Reese Grassman, LeAra Hopson, Bailey Hutler, Corey Larry, Leah Schunemeyer, Audrey Staley, Rita Xioa

Montana: Kody Boone, Juliette Cheff, McKenna Hutchinson, Nevica McCarvel, Keanu Ng

Nebraska: Hannah Devlin, BreAnn Warren, Talie Wilson

Nevada: Ar’iel El’ohym, Jacqueline Gabriel-Murcia, Rhiannon O’Dell, Esther Odegbesan, Gabriel Olson

New Hampshire: Ashley Follansbee, Jennifer Guo, Katherine Guo, Natalie Herrera, Ashley Jane, Mackenzie Verdiner

New Jersey: Jessica Ambrosio, Anasia Currie, Kristy Garcia, Imania Mohamed, Catherine Montenegro, Faith Ndichu, Jennifer Pardo, Brialis Phan, Josephine Quezada, Daniella Serdyuk, Christina Tashji, Jaelyn’Miri Tatem, Daniel Youssef

New Mexico: Ramon Enriquez III, Nanabah Largo, Mika Lucero, Samantha Moore, Tiyeisha Rafael, Hannah Watkins

New York: Allen Alverez, Jennifer Aucaquizhpi, Emani Campbell, Tatiana Castillo, Sandy Chi, Shamania Chowdhury, Natalia Cornish, Raana Forgah, Donna Garrafa, Kimberly German, Soliel Hayles, Sunny Huang, Caleb Kinley, Jason Lee, Magaly Mendoza, Pedro Nascimento, Alisha Peralta, tanisha Raina, Ayesha rana, Evan Rapp, Bryanna Smith-Dillio, Jayden Swygert, Matthew Xochitecatl

North Carolina: Jordan Braga, Aiden Bryant, Hannah Campos, Tyler Chen, Sheba Gage, Lillian Grahm, Caleb Hartsell, Lilly Kohout, Kim Lam, Kishawn Pate, Hannah Schmidt, Gabrielle Tracy

North Dakota: Isabella Aaker

Ohio: Layne Becerril-Barrera, Jaden Bridgett, Alayna Crum, Bridgett Eckman, Emma Fugate, Nathaniel Guyton, Ameilia Hay, Kaylee Jakubisin, Ella Joliat, Khina Karki, Jaden Napier, Caroline O’Malley, Synai Peters Hardiman, Autumn Robinson, Hunter Slack, Hannah Souders, Lily Swagerty, Riley Wilson Emerald Wray

Oklahoma: Sophia Chavez, Victor Hernandez, Zayden Fox, Lexi Poyner, Madison Ray, Jesse Smith, Garret Strickland, Evan Waters

Oregon: Fatima Al-shiblawi, Vanessa Brown, Jazmin Cobian, Velinda Flores Ceja, Andrea Sanchez-Garavito, Jason Valdivia Gonzales, Elizabeth Marshall-Hendrix, Colton Peterson

Pennsylvania: Diane Arias, Anegla Al-Hourani, Kyliannah Bruno, Taylor Devilbliss, Tyler Dulkis, William Dwyer, Hannah Florczak, Jasmine Hersh, Mariah Hughes, Alison Minnier, Nathaly Orduna, Kylah Pinckney, Mohammed Shareef, Angelique Smalls, Sara Srun, Micah Wood

Rhode Island: Julissa Davis, Grace Rutherford, Robert Wade

South Carolina: Mariyah Bennett, Yoali Garcia, Preston Garett, Ahava Folk, Dharma Lane, Rachel McKnight, Katelynn Ryan, Zoe Stritch

South Dakota: Debby Liberty Campbell, Kaelyn Hanley, Cindy Khuu, Avienda Margheim, Isayah Price, Dena Yellowearings

Tennessee: Bentley Anthony, Kirsten Fox, Kayla Harville, Addison Huddleston, Sunnie Ishii, Hannah McCoy, Huyen Nguyen, Georgia Sells, Analise Williams

Texas: Moyinoluwa Ajayi, Mayte Aleman, Jonas Apacible, Carla Araguz, Marissa Arana, Slayton Batts, Alyssa Benavidez, Sahsa Cabral, Alondra Delgado, Danielle Durante, Princess Edogiawerie, Fernanda Escamilla, Danielle Escojido, Josiah Villareal Flores, Emmanuel Garcia, Addison McKenna Goncalo, Adriana Gonzales, Alyssa Gray, Hanah Kim, Sergio Long, Treana Macks, Joshua Martinez, Blake Maulsby, Bertha Meldes, Samantha Mujica, Jesus Soto, Vivian Souvannachack, Adetoun Taiwo, Jordan Tetro

Utah: Alex Bertasso, Gabriella Delagadillo, Spencer Douglass, Emilee Linarte, Purity Mason, Daniela Monzalvo, Katherine Wilson

Virginia: Raha Almfarrej, Desiree Call, Emily Campos, Julie Potillo Diaz, Kate Faenza, Irisha Fulgham, Nicole Martin, Alexandria McKeon, Lilli Showers, Jenelle Smith, Madison Smith, A’aliyah Starks

Washington: Stanley Chan, Cristal Ramirez Garcia, Kun Lee, Janeyra Mendoza, Alexis Menson, Yaretsi Munguia, Brody Richardson, Benny Salazar Zarate, Jason Taylor, Maria Tubbs

Washington D.C.: Micha Burnett, Lucious Crawford, Shaniya Taylor

West Virginia: Mostafa Foual, Addison Hetcher, Blake Hudson, Maci Kaiser, Devin Lew, Chelsia Workman

Wisconsin: Jnade Acuna, Aubrey Fricke, Giselle Hernandez, Corbin Holm, Amber Khan, Syndey Morgnuson, Natalie Rodriguez, Andrea Rosenthal, Aliyah Tafoya, Yesenia Robles Xolot

Wyoming: Selena Call, Jaden Hartman, Amiya DeFoe-Love, Gabriel Matthews, Justice Nelson

Media Contact

Colby Gallagher, Horatio Alger Association, 1 484.385.2900, [email protected]

SOURCE Horatio Alger Association



Society: Social Services

Melrose Little League wins 2023 U10 Massachusetts State Baseball Championship

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“Our league is focused on getting the best performance from our players in a healthy team environment,” said Jay Recinito, President of Melrose Little League. “We’ve expanded our league to include more players and more playing time throughout the year. I am incredibly proud of our program and the success of our 2023 State Championship team. These players have earned something for themselves and for the league as we continue to set the bar high as a little league organization.”

Coach Dan Cordella led the team throughout the season: “As a father, a fan, and a coach, it’s incredibly rewarding to see a group of kids come together. These kids brought the right combination of attitude, skill, and hustle to play at a championship level. I’m extremely proud of how they conducted themselves both on and off the field.”

Little League baseball has been played in the City of Melrose, Massachusetts since 1952. It wasn’t until 2023 that the city brought home their first Little League State Championship.

Players on the team include Dev Sullivan, Braden Bolger, Owen Pillsbury, Eamonn Judge, Colin Ryder, Joe Weaver, Lawton Chisholm, Ben Cordella, Alex Ogiba, Sam Kirsh, Michael Tierney, Drew Besegai, and Oliver Pechulis. The team is led by coaches Dan Cordella, Chad Ogiba, and Rob Kirsh.

About Melrose Little League

Melrose Little League is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing supervised baseball programs that are fun, educational, and competitive for players between the age of 4 and 12. The league operates three seasons of baseball in addition to indoor winter practices.

Melrose Little League is part of the Massachusetts District 12 Little League which serves the communities of Melrose, Medford, Malden, Somerville, Everett, and East Boston. Each summer, district teams compete within the state tournament, with the 12-year-old district team eligible to compete in the Little League World Series Williamsport Tournament, https://www.littleleague.org/world-series/.

Melrose Little League was formed in December 2016 following the successful merger of the Melrose National Little League (MNLL) and the Churchill American Little League (CALL) organizations and has served the community through its baseball programs continuously since 1952. The league has been a top performing fundraiser annually in support of The Jimmy Fund Summer Baseball Program and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

Related Links

https://www.melroselittleleague.org/

https://www.facebook.com/melroselittleleague/

Media Contact

William Thompson, Newcomb Hollow Marketing Solutions, 1 6172836609, [email protected], https://www.newcombhollowmarketing.com/

SOURCE Melrose Little League

Society: Social Services

Paving the Path for Financial Independence and Sustainable Progress

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Dr. Dame Shellie Hunt, the visionary founder of Women of Global Change, lends her resounding support to this transformative campaign. “EmpowerHer epitomizes the very essence of WGC’s global mission – the upliftment of women and their empowerment to ignite positive change. Guided by Richa Saxena’s leadership, the India Chapter embodies our shared commitment to effect tangible transformation in the lives and communities we touch.”

The Women of Global Change (WGC) is a distinguished nonprofit organization that has been recognized for its remarkable contributions, having received five prestigious Presidential Service Awards for its impactful work. As an organization committed to fostering positive change, WGC is actively seeking new members, donations, and support to further amplify its mission of empowering women and creating lasting transformations in communities worldwide.

Richa Saxena, the dynamic President of the WGC India Chapter, accentuates the campaign’s spirit of unity and collective progress. “EmpowerHer is not merely a campaign; it’s an unwavering movement that unites women in their pursuit of financial autonomy and sustainable entrepreneurship. We extend an invitation to individuals, organizations, and influencers to join hands with us in crafting a future defined by empowerment and environmental responsibility.”

One notable figure who supports sustainable fashion and women’s empowerment is Emma Watson. She is known for her advocacy in promoting ethical fashion practices and environmental sustainability. Emma Watson has been a vocal supporter of gender equality and women’s rights, aligning with the values of Women of Global Change (WGC).

EmpowerHer aims to not only enlighten minds but also spark actionable change that resonates throughout Indian communities. This campaign is a testament to the power of collaboration, the tenacity of visionaries, and the spirit of empowerment. As EmpowerHer illuminates pathways toward financial autonomy and sustainable entrepreneurship, it invites us all to partake in sculpting a future that celebrates both human potential and the planet’s well-being.

For more information about the EmpowerHer campaign, how to participate, or contribute, please visit https://womenofglobalchange.com/india/

Media Contact

Elizabeth Frederick, Women of Global Change, 1-949-273-8788, [email protected], www.womenofglobalchange.com

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SOURCE Women of Global Change