Author: Rabindra

Empowering Inmates for a Successful Future – myObamacare TN Launches Re-Entry Health Insurance Program (R-HIP) in Williamson County

Franklin, TN, July 28, 2023 – R-HIP’s primary mission is to offer support to newly released individuals as they reintegrate into society by providing them access to quality, no-cost health insurance. myObamacare TN believes that access to proper healthcare is crucial for successful reentry and can significantly contribute to reducing recidivism rates.

The R-HIP team will conduct in-person jail enrollments and education sessions once a month, ensuring that participants are well-informed about their healthcare options. Additionally, licensed Agents and Assisters will be available after release to provide ongoing support, including clarifying insurance policies and answering any questions the individuals may have during their transition.

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) plays a pivotal role in this initiative, as it offers various rights and protections that make health coverage more accessible and easier to understand, along with subsidies to make it more affordable. myObamacare TN’s licensed health insurance agents are committed to providing comprehensive education and enrollment services to all individuals in need, with a focus on ensuring that eligible individuals do not risk a gap in healthcare coverage.

The integration of myObamacare TN’s R-HIP program into the Williamson County Jail reflects a shared commitment to fostering healthier communities and reducing recidivism. By addressing the critical need for access to healthcare services during the reentry process, R-HIP aims to make a lasting impact on the lives of formerly incarcerated individuals.

Jessica Singleton, a representative from myObamacare TN, stated, “We are thrilled to launch the Re-Entry Health Insurance Program in Williamson County. Access to quality healthcare is fundamental in supporting individuals’ successful reintegration into society, and we are dedicated to providing the necessary resources and guidance to help them thrive.”

Cavaliers CEO Nic Barlage, Pfizer Chairman and CEO Albert Bourla, Levi Strauss and Co. President Michelle Gass Among 2023 Hosts for Jeff Ubben Posse Fellows Program

New York, NY, July 28, 2023 — The Biden Administration, Cleveland Cavaliers CEO Nic Barlage, Levi Strauss and Co. President Michelle Gass, Pfizer Chairman and CEO Albert Bourla and World Wildlife Fund President and CEO Carter Roberts are each hosting and mentoring a member of the seventh cohort of Jeff Ubben Posse Fellows this summer.

The Jeff Ubben Posse Fellows Program provides unique mentorship opportunities for high-achieving college students supported by The Posse Foundation, a college success and leadership development organization. The Ubben Posse Fellows Program selects Posse Scholars in their second year of college who have a 3.7 cumulative GPA or higher and show exceptional promise as leaders. Fellows receive a generous stipend and a summer internship with a leader in one of the following industries: arts, media, entertainment, STEM, law, government, education, nonprofit, business and finance.

The 2023 Jeff Ubben Posse Fellows are Posse Scholars who have achieved academic excellence and demonstrated exceptional leadership potential. Their summer mentorship pairings are:

Mayah Bourne (The George Washington University) from Posse Atlanta
with Cleveland Cavaliers, Rocket Mortgage Field House and Rock Entertainment Group CEO Nic Barlage

Ciaran Buitrago (Lehigh University) from Posse Bay Area
with World Wildlife Fund President and CEO Carter Roberts

Jenkins Darbney (Sewanee: The University of the South) from Posse D.C.
with Pfizer Chairman and CEO Albert Bourla

Desaree Edwards (Wesleyan University) from Posse Veterans
with a special assignment at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Sheccid Rodriguez (Tulane University) from Posse Los Angeles
with Levi Strauss and Co. President Michelle Gass

The Posse Foundation launched the Jeff Ubben Fellows Program in 2017 in recognition of then ValueAct Capital CEO Jeff Ubben, who served as Posse’s board chair from 2007 to 2016. During his tenure, Ubben helped the organization establish 47 new college and university partnerships, double the number of recruitment cities, and build assets of nearly $80 million.

Previous hosts have included the late U.S. Congressman and civil rights leader John Lewis, Merck CEO Kenneth Frazier, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren, LinkedIn CEO Ryan Roslansky, The Office of the California Govenor Gavin Newsom, AMC Networks CEO Josh Sapan, Deloitte US CEO Joe Ucuzoglu, Travelers CEO Alan Schnitzer and Eli Lilly and Company Chairman and CEO David Ricks.

Indian Publishers Conference 2023: Unleashing the Power of Publishing in India’s Journey to 2047

New Delhi, India – July 27th, 2023 – The Federation of Indian Publishers is proud to announce the highly anticipated Indian Publishers Conference 2023 on August 11th and 12th at the prestigious Claridges Hotel in New Delhi. This momentous event marks the golden jubilee celebration of the Federation, commemorating 50 years of excellence and progress in the Indian publishing industry.

Themed “India@2047: Role of Publishing in Nation Building,” the conference will bring together industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders to explore the pivotal role of publishing in shaping the nation’s future. As India emerges as a global powerhouse, the conference will delve into how publishing contributes to economic growth, employment, and the dissemination of knowledge, fostering a culturally rich society.

The Indian publishing industry, steeped in a rich legacy, has experienced remarkable growth in recent years. With its diverse content formats and focus on originality, Indian publishers have captured domestic and international markets. Their contribution to initiatives like “Atma Nirbhar Bharat” and “Make in India” highlights their pivotal role in supporting national priorities.

As India advances towards 2047, the conference will examine the industry’s progress amidst the digital revolution. Exploring new horizons will empower publishers to meet evolving demands and harness the potential of technology for broader reach, revenue generation, and employment opportunities.

With India’s rise as a global power, the event underscores the publishing industry’s significance in building a self-reliant nation. By fostering import-export trade, promoting talent development, and enhancing education and knowledge dissemination, publishing emerges as a driving force for inclusive growth and a catalyst for realising India’s vision.

The President of the FIP, Mr Ramesh Mittal, said, While the country is commemorating Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav and preparing to host the G- 20 Summit, the Federation of Indian Publishers is celebrating its Golden Jubilee by organizing INDIAN PUBLISHERS CONFERENCE at New Delhi next month. Role of Publishing in Nation Building is the theme of the conference. Publishers from across India in English and Indian languages and thinkers from different walks of life are expected to attend the conference. Topics like National Education Policy, Copyright, Translation, Content Monetization, Usefulness of Data, Artificial Intelligence, Innovations and above all, Making India a Book Reading Nation & Knowledge Society will be deliberated upon.

Speaking about the event, the Director of the Conference, Mr Pranav Gupta, said, “As the Director of the Indian Publishers Conference 2023 and on the auspicious occasion of the Federation of Indian Publishers’ Golden Jubilee, I am thrilled to announce this momentous event. OUR Role of Publishing in Nation Building will be a defining moment for the Indian publishing industry as we celebrate 50 years of the Federation of Indian Publishers. This conference will showcase our industry’s remarkable growth and immense potential. Publishing plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of our nation, contributing to economic development, knowledge dissemination, and fostering a culturally enriched society. With India’s global influence on the rise, our conference will explore the transformative power of publishing in building a self-reliant India. Join us as we unleash the power of publishing and shape the trajectory of our great nation towards 2047.”

About the Federation of Indian Publishers:

The Federation of Indian Publishers is the representative body of publishers in English, Hindi and other regional languages with its membership from all over India, representing more than 80 percent of the publishing industry. All the leading publishers of the country are its direct members, other publishers being represented through various local associations. Since its inception, the Federation has become the national representative body of the Indian Publishing Industry and is growing stronger and stronger day by day. Internationally also, the Federation has played an important role. The Federation is affiliated to the International Publishers Association, Geneva, as the only representative body of Indian publishers

Artificial Intelligence Takes Center Stage at CEDIA Expo

Denver, CO, July 27, 2023 — Artificial Intelligence is coming for the home. Are you ready? The CEDIA Symposium promises an engaging afternoon of thought-provoking discussions led by industry visionaries, AI experts, top integrators, and manufacturers. It is an unparalleled opportunity for home tech professionals to gain insights into the rapidly evolving landscape of AI and how to leverage it for maximum impact.

“We see news about A.I. every day, but little about its impact on home technology. At CEDIA, we believe knowledge is power,” said Daryl Friedman, CEDIA Association’s Global President and CEO. “The CEDIA Symposium will bring together the best and brightest to help attendees stay ahead of the curve in AI, an increasingly crucial tool for smart home professionals to deliver exceptional experiences.”

This exclusive event will be held on Wednesday, September 6 located in the Four Seasons Ballroom inside the Colorado Convention Center, home of this year’s CEDIA Expo. Cost to attend the invitation-only event is $250 and The Symposium will offer participants a platform to learn, network, and exchange ideas with leaders from the industry.

“As the co-founder of CEDIA, I have witnessed its remarkable journey, bringing together thought leaders across decades to navigate the dynamic shifts in home technologies. From pioneering home theater to embracing the forefront of AI, CEDIA has remained at the forefront of innovation,” said Tom Doherty, HTSA, Director of New Technology Initiatives. “The upcoming CEDIA AI Symposium, uniting the industry’s top 100 thought leaders, signifies the enduring spirit of CEDIA and its commitment to advancing our homes for the future.”

The Symposium is presented by Azione, HTSA, ProSource and the CEDIA Association. Supporting organizations include Josh.ai and One Firefly,

The CEDIA Symposium Agenda:

11:00am – 12:00pm: Summit Registration
12:00pm – 12:30pm: Networking Lunch

12:30pm – 1:00pm: Opening Remarks: The Impact of AI on Luxury Residential Home Automation
Hear from Josh.ai’s co-founder Alex Capecelatro who will delve into the history, current state of AI and the potential impact on the luxury residential home automation market.

1:00pm – 1:55pm: Marketing: 10 Ways to Leverage AI for Productivity and Performance
Discover the power of AI in marketing strategies as One Firefly’s CEO, Ron Callis shares ten practical approaches to enhance productivity and performance.

2:00pm – 2:55pm: Panel Discussion: Custom Integrators’ AI Implementations
Participate in a dynamic panel discussion moderated by Alex Capecelatro, where industry-leading integrators will share real-world examples of AI implementations in their businesses.

3:00pm – 3:15pm: Curated AI Tools Presentation
Join Ron Callis as he provides an overview of curated AI tools, highlighting their applications and potential possibilities for those in attendance.

3:15pm – 3:30pm: Break and Networking
3:30pm – 4:15pm: Manufacturer Panel Discussion: AI Innovation for Improved Implementation and Commissioning
Hear from Tom Doherty, CEDIA Association’s co-founder, as he moderates a panel discussion featuring smart home industry vendors as they share their current AI efforts, their vision for leveraging AI to enhance implementation and commissioning processes to maximize value for clients.

4:20pm – 5:00pm: Closing Remarks and CEDIA Keynote Announcement
Closing remarks will be given by industry veteran Rich Green, who will provide invaluable insights into the future of luxury residential home automation.

5:00pm – 5:30pm: Networking Reception

* Please note that the names and specific details mentioned above are subject to change.

The CEDIA Symposium is a must-attend event for professionals seeking to stay ahead of the curve in the fast-paced world of AI and home automation.

For those working with A.I. in the residential technology space interested in receiving an invitation, please email ai@cedia.org.

FutureCommPR Explores Various Initiatives Aimed at Saving Small Businesses

San Francisco, CA, July 27, 2023 — In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, cities are having to redefine themselves. The pandemic’s impact led to a shift in urban dynamics with people preferring to dine and shop in residential neighborhoods allowing them to stay close to home. Unfortunately, these changing habits have persisted and as a result, downtown area businesses are suffering nationwide. The primary consequence is the loss of numerous small businesses and cherished “mom and pop” shops, which have served as enduring symbols of main street. However, there is a collective effort underway to safeguard these businesses, led by private citizens, tech entrepreneurs, and organizations dedicated to supporting small enterprises.

On July 12, the planned closing of the Anchor Brewing Company located in San Francisco, CA, since 1896 was announced. Mike Walsh, a Venture Capitalist with Structure Capital, showed his support and commitment to preserve this local treasure by announcing his plan to rescue the iconic brewery. Walsh recognizes the importance of the brewery to the city, and he is committed to presenting a compelling offer to keep it open. He is currently looking at several options for raising the funds to complete the purchase. “It is an iconic brew, and the brand represents innovation and grit,” said Walsh. His goal is to keep the brewery where it is and with its current employees. He has “a large investor group with hundreds more interested in investing through a crowdfunding option. I’m happy to collaborate to save this San Francisco, Bay Area, and national treasure,” he added.

In parallel with the efforts to preserve Anchor Brewing Company, another remarkable initiative aims to bolster small businesses nationwide. Mario L. Castellanos, Founder & CEO, of the app “Mystery on Main Street” also shared his mission to revitalize local economies. “We’re a start-up seeking funding, but our mission is to bring business back to the locals by using mystery-themed storytelling and gamification with some augmented reality and AI thrown into the mix,” said Castellanos. He believes that small businesses are hurting nationwide and to counter this, his company plans on providing no-cost, month-long gameplays in cities and towns nationwide to launch their app with the goal of getting thousands of shoppers and players to visit small businesses.

In other efforts, organizations like Chambers of Commerce across the nation have introduced programs to assist small business remain open and to be successful. Rita McDonald, Chief Growth Officer of the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the importance of empowering small businesses within local communities. “By offering a diverse range of programs and resources, we create an ecosystem where small businesses thrive, bringing innovation and job opportunities to the region,” McDonald said. She went on to say that “Our members love the integrated approach that fosters collaboration across all sizes of enterprises, creating a connected business community that drives the Middle Tennessee economy forward.”

Other Chambers around the county are also introducing programs to assist these businesses. The Seattle Metro Chamber introduced the Community Business Connector (CBC) in 2022. This program works to ensure equitable economic recovery across business by working with “connectors” that help to provide business resources to sustain and grow local enterprises. The program facilitates the establishment of relationships with businesses encountering difficulties caused by linguistic, cultural, and geographic barriers, including economic repercussions resulting from COVID-19.

Collectively, these nationwide efforts are giving struggling business owners some hope. These initiatives have the power to be impactful and showcase the unwavering resilience of owners. They serve as crucial reminders to consumers of the importance of supporting local businesses to ensure their survival. Keeping money within the community positively impacts everyone, fostering a strong and thriving economy.

Rubber B Announces Grand Opening of New Store Location in Paris, France

Miami Beach, FL, July 26, 2023 — Rubber B, the leading rubber watch strap retailer, is thrilled to unveil the grand opening of its new store at 19 Rue Tronchet, 75008 Paris, France. This expansion marks a significant milestone in the company’s growth and demonstrates its commitment to providing The Ultimate Rubber Straps to customers in the heart of Paris.

The new Rubber B store aims to create an immersive shopping experience that reflects the brand’s dedication to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. With an extensive range of products, the reputation is built on each customer’s long-term quality experience with the products and service.

Key Features and Highlights of the New Store:

Prime Location: Situated in the prestigious 8th arrondissement, the store benefits from its prime location in the bustling heart of Paris, known for its vibrant culture and thriving commercial scene.

Stunning Interior Design: The store showcases a modern and visually captivating interior design, blending contemporary aesthetics with elements that pay homage to the rich heritage of Paris.

Extensive Product Selection: Customers can explore an extensive collection of rubber watch straps carefully curated to cater to diverse tastes, preferences, and budgets. From vulcanized rubber to SwimSking technology, the store has something for everyone. Although the SwimSkin® strap looks and feels identical to alligator hide, it is actually 100% Rubber, and therefore waterproof for all sports and aquatic activities.

Expert Staff: A team of knowledgeable and passionate staff members is ready to assist customers, offering personalized recommendations and expert advice to ensure a seamless shopping experience.

Interactive Technology: The store integrates cutting-edge technology to enhance the shopping journey, providing interactive displays, virtual demonstrations, and other innovative features that engage and delight customers.

Grand Opening Celebrations: To commemorate the opening of the new store, Rubber B has planned an exciting lineup of events and special promotions for customers. These include creating a festive atmosphere and fostering community.

Charles Rizzo Gifts The Children’s Charity Over $5,000 to Assist in Their Efforts to Provide Bikes for Children

Detroit, MI, July 26, 2023 –– Variety The Children’s Charity was gifted well over $5,000 in children’s bikes to aid in their efforts to provide bikes to special needs and differently-abled children. With the help of generous donors, the charity gives away bikes and safety gear to over 150 children each year. Chuck Rizzo, being the father of a son with special needs, has an intimate understanding of the challenges that these children face, and has consistently committed to helping in any way that he can.

“We have been supporters of Variety for a number of years now,” says Chuck Rizzo, Jr. “Being parents of a special needs child ourselves, we are better able to appreciate what other families deal with. One of the main reasons that we decided to become active donors with Variety was the Bikes for kids program. We all know the joy that comes over any child’s face when they are able to cruise on their very own bike with the wind in their hair & the sun on their face… this sense of mobility and freedom is amplified when the child has had to deal with so many limitations in their young lives.”

The Charles Rizzo family donation to the charity allows the organization to purchase dozens upon dozens of new bikes of all types to add a bit more joy to a number of children’s lives. “In childhood, there are few things as independent as being able to move about freely under your own power,” added Rizzo.

The GivingTuesday Data Commons Launches Rethinking Resilience: Insights from the Giving Ecosystem

New York, NY, July 26, 2023 – The GivingTuesday Data Commons today released Rethinking Resilience: Insights from the Giving Ecosystem, in which the Data Commons continues its data-driven efforts to deepen the social sector’s understanding of the giving ecosystem.

In this report, the Data Commons presents a holistic view of global giving in 2022, reflecting the full breadth of the Data Commons’ initiatives, partnerships, data, and analysis. The Data Commons has mapped a wide variety of giving behavior metrics across global regions and communities, including the USA, India, Brazil, Kenya, the UK, and other countries. This year’s report also offers a window into the many ways that giving cultures vary from region to region.

The 2022 Lookback Report goes beyond narrow philanthropic metrics that exclude most giving and givers. In addition to measuring financial donations to charities, it also reports on giving money, time, items and voice in many different contexts, including giving to community groups and non-family individuals, in addition to nonprofits.

As the report underscores, as the map of the global giving ecosystem evolves so too will the ability to learn how to best cultivate radical generosity.

Highlights from this year’s report include:

– Globally, the vast majority of people gave to others. 84% of people worldwide donated time, money, items, or voice to others last year. Remarkably, most people (56%) gave in at least 3 of those ways.

– Giving behaviors are highly culturally dependent, with radically different giving ecosystems in different places. Of the countries surveyed, Kenya was by far the most generous across all metrics.

– Younger generations were more generous than older generations globally. The research shows that younger generations gave more often and in more ways in 2022. Older generations still donate more dollars in some countries, but younger generations are the most financially generous in others.

– In the USA, both donors (of money) and dollars were down. This double-whammy returns in 2022 for the first time since 2010. This alarming trend highlights the need for nonprofits to invest in resiliency by diversifying their donor base and tapping into the powerful cross-generational willingness to give that is present in nearly every community.

In addition to offering an analysis of giving trends, the 2022 Lookback Report also includes a suggested set of high-level strategic responses to the observed trends. However, to ensure that the reports and dashboards are as actionable as possible, the GivingTuesday Data Commons will soon be launching a complementary initiative that will provide a steady stream of practical and timely tools and tactics to increase giving and maximize organizational resiliency and impact.

This report could not have been produced without the support of many partners and their contributions. The GivingTuesday Data Commons operates within an exciting research context and is fortunate to work in collaboration – and in collegial conversation with – many of the most rigorous researchers in the field.

“Here at the GivingTuesday Data Commons,” says Chief Data Officer Woodrow Rosenbaum, “we aim to bring the same sorts of data-driven tools to the social sector that the business sector has had for decades. We’re working to enable the development and implementation of far more effective evidence-based campaigns and creating opportunities to move beyond outdated transactional models and explore more diverse, distributed, responsive, and enduring relational strategies.”