29, May 2024
Author Eloy Ortega’s Book Memoirs of A Contractor in A War Zone
Cypress, TX, May 29, 2024 –Eloy Ortega has completed his new book, “Memoirs of A Contractor in A War Zone: Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) Theater of Operations”: a gripping work that sheds light on the author’s experience of going to a foreign land and entering a war zone as a civilian and not as a soldier.
Author Eloy Ortega came from the barrio. Born in Corpus Christi, Texas, on August 2, 1965, he embarked on a fifty-seven-year adventure. His childhood was full of strife, as he grew up homeless and was orphaned by the age of fifteen. Surrounded by poverty, his life turned to juvenile delinquency, and he found himself constantly in trouble with the law—nevertheless, he had big dreams of getting himself out of the barrio. When he was eligible, he joined the army. Fate, however, intervened, and within two-and-a-half years, he left active duty because of the passing of several of his immediate family members.
Within a couple of years, he was able to join the Army Reserve in Corpus Christi, Texas. Two years after that, he moved to Rio Grande City in South Texas where he was a Unit Administrator for the Army Reserves. While in uniform, he deployed to Saudi Arabia’s Operation Desert Storm, serving under LTG William Pagonis for six months. Leaving the Army Reserve, at this time, he met his wife, thereupon changing his life forever. He initially worked in law enforcement in Rio Grande City. Unfortunately, after giving birth to their second daughter, his wife was diagnosed with cancer; thus, the family moved to seek medical attention in Houston, Texas, warranting his resignation as a deputy from the Starr County Sheriff’s Department.
While in Houston, to support his family and his wife’s treatments, he strove to join Kellogg, Brown, and Root (KBR), which was the main civilian support for US troops. This was his opportunity to continue, even as a civilian, to serve. He applied, and on August 3, 2003, he was on his way, via Kuwait, to Iraq’s Operation Iraqi Freedom. His administrative and leadership skills enabled him and his team of operators to develop the best water supply system—in a war zone. This launched him to become the logistics leader in Water and Utilities Operations throughout the war zone. At the end of this period, he met and briefed numerous high-ranking military leaders and congressional visitors, receiving high praise for his overall demeanor, communication skills, and knowledge.
During his service in Iraq, he was wounded by a mortar attack and received the Secretary of Defense for the Defense of Freedom commendation. The wound would lead to future medical and psychological challenges. More serious issues followed, and despite this, he has survived. With determination and belief in oneself, Eloy shows that anything is possible.
Eloy writes, “Departing Kuwait to Iraq, I was issued a bulletproof vest with no plates due to supply shortages. I remember asking for a second bulletproof vest without the steel plates so that I could make myself believe if I got shot the vest would help me. I continue to ask myself what I was doing there if I loved my family with all my heart, and then another thought came in my head. I remembered why I was there, so then I prayed to God to guide the way for me and everybody along with all civilians and military going to Iraq. One significant sign caught my attention; the most little did I know the importance of it will be significant later as the story goes on. We proceeded to load our Chevrolet dually truck with plenty of cases of water and MREs to survive. We were told to take whatever we wanted to take, because if we wouldn’t take it with us, we wouldn’t have it. After going to the market in Kuwait City, we purchased enough snacks, chips, and my favorite soft drink. I got enough Dr. Pepper to last for several months.”
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- By Rabindra
29, May 2024
Angel Gonzalez & Brittany Gonzalez’s New Book Taking the Leap Into Commercial Real Estate
Arvada, CO, May 29, 2024 –Fulton Books authors Angel Gonzalez, who has over nineteen plus years of experience in finance, banking, and executive management with fortune five hundred companies, and Brittany Gonzalez, a managing partner with over twenty years of experience in the banking industry, have completed their most recent book, “Taking the Leap into Commercial Real Estate”: a thorough guide providing valuable insights into commercial real estate syndication and the benefits it can offer to investors.
With his nearly two decades of experience, author Angel Gonzalez has experience with a broad range of industries, including accounting, capital management, marketing, and consulting. He began investing in real estate in 2005 and built a portfolio of single-family homes before discovering the power of commercial real estate and syndication. Angel is a veteran of the US Army and holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and business administration from Augsburg University.
Over the course of her career, author Brittany Gonzalez has taken on various roles focused on customer service, payroll, and finance. She has a passion for helping others, whether that is mentoring individuals/couples to be their best and strive for more or to provide a listening ear. She holds a master’s degree in organizational leadership from Bethel University and a bachelor’s degree in human resource and general management from Minnesota State University, Mankato. She is active in the community, volunteering for nonprofit organizations such as Feed My Starving Children, Bridging, and People Serving People.
Angel and Brittany share, “The investment strategies outlined in the book focuses on value-add investments, which involve acquiring properties that can be improved through strategic management and renovations. This approach can generate increased cash flow and appreciation, leading to long-term growth for investors.
“The Keystone Advantages strategies offer investors access to recession-resistant real estate, high-quality investment opportunities, and regular passive cash flow. By investing in prevetted private equity transactions, investors can also benefit from strategic placement of their investment capital.”
29, May 2024
Keep Irving Beautiful Visits Heritage Senior Center for Art Project
Irving, TX, May 29, 2024 — On May 22, Keep Irving Beautiful (KIB) staff visited the Heritage Senior Center (HSC), 200 S. Jefferson St., for a birdhouse painting project with the seniors. The seniors gathered in the crafts room and spent the morning flexing their artistic talents and creativity.
HSC Recreation Specialist T.J. Friedel organizes different craft projects for the seniors to sign up for each month. “We appreciate KIB for coming out today and bringing the birdhouses,” said Friedel. “This is the first of many art projects we hope to do with them. Having the birdhouses to paint was a nice change, and the participants really enjoyed it.”
“KIB has had an ongoing relationship with the HSC for many years,” said KIB Board member Rachel Moon. “We enjoy visiting the center on a regular basis to promote KIB activities and programs or participate in special events. It’s an important part of our outreach that extends to all ages here in Irving.”
Keep Irving Beautiful is a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating the community about litter abatement, recycling, and beautification to help preserve the health and promote the social and economic prosperity of the city. As an award-winning affiliate of Keep America Beautiful and Keep Texas Beautiful, Keep Irving Beautiful reaches out to all sectors of the community, including government, businesses, churches, as well as cultural, educational, neighborhood and civic organizations. For more information on volunteering with KIB or making an activity a “green event,” visit, CityofIrving.org/KIB or call (972) 721-2175.
29, May 2024
Nonprofit Mission Meow Invests in Kittensnatchers to Save and Improve the Lives of Cats in Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia, PA, May 29, 2024 –Kittensnatchers is set to receive a $5,350 grant from New Jersey nonprofit Mission Meow in support of their lifesaving work for cats in Philadelphia, PA.
Mission Meow is dedicated to supporting feline-centric nonprofits through a unique funding model. Each month, Mission Meow gathers donations from a diverse range of businesses and awards substantial quarterly grants to deserving organizations committed to the welfare and betterment of cats. Their goal is to amplify the impact of nonprofits that provide care, protection, and advocacy for cats, ensuring they have the resources needed to thrive and expand their vital services.
“Our investment in KittenSnattchers is part of more than $15,000 in grants recently announced by Mission Meow to empower local cat-centric organizations across the country as part of our commitment to create meaningful change,” said Sally Williams, founder of Mission Meow. “Our unique strategy transforms everyday business into extraordinary support for feline welfare, weaving generosity through the fabric of the community to uplift the lives of cats everywhere.”
“This generous $5,350 investment from Mission Meow will greatly enhance our ability to save more vulnerable cats and kittens by providing essential medical care and improving their chances of survival. Additionally, it will enable us to reduce emergency care costs by allowing us to offer supportive care at home,” said Kat Ferge, President of Kittensnatchers.
Kittensnatchers is dedicated to rescuing street cats, offering personal support to fosters, and prioritizing the greater good of each cat’s health and happiness. Our mission is to provide comprehensive dental and medical care for cats prior to adoption, ensure the well-being of sick cats, and find suitable placements for those needing socialization.
29, May 2024
How This Former Fisherman Turned Crisis Into His Launching Pad
Joshua Tree, CA, May 29, 2024 –From Crisis to Triumph:
In Vaughan’s transformative guidebook, “Take Advantage of Your Crisis,” he empowers readers to harness the hidden opportunities within adversity and emerge stronger. He shares practical methods for reframing challenges as stepping stones to greatness, leveraging setbacks as springboards for growth, and cultivating a mindset that sees crisis as an opportunity for transformation. For Example, Vaughan delves into a transformative approach he developed to overcome his own battles with addiction. This unique program, Vaughan argues, aligns with fundamental human needs and instincts. After implementing these steps, Vaughan found a profound and lasting positive impact on his life. Whether you’re facing personal hurdles, career shifts, or life’s curveballs, this book provides a roadmap to unlock your full potential and achieve lasting success.
29, May 2024
Second Annual Queer Women and Trans Hockey Tournament Returns Bigger and Better Than Ever
Toronto, Canada, May 29, 2024 — Anticipation is building for the second annual Queer Women and Trans Hockey Tournament, set to take place on May 31 and June 1 at the Ford Performance Centre. This year’s tournament will benchmark what it means to create inclusive spaces in sports, with a record-breaking 200 hockey players registered, a first-ever Pride sledge hockey showcase game, and a new queer vendor market.
The tournament is a testament to the growing visibility and importance of LGBTQ+ representation in sports. Organized by passionate advocates for inclusion within the hockey world, the event has garnered support from prominent organizations including Maple Leafs Sports and Entertainment, the Professional Women’s Hockey League, Pride Toronto, Peaches Sports Bar, Fierce Hockey, and CCM.
“This tournament is about more than just hockey; it’s about creating a space where queer women and trans athletes feel seen, supported, and celebrated,” said Cagla Baktiroglu, co-organizer of the event. “Through the power of sport, we’re breaking down barriers and fostering a sense of community that extends far beyond the ice.”
With the generous support of sponsors, all proceeds from the tournament will be donated to local charities making a meaningful impact in the LGBTQ+ community. Beneficiaries include the Orange Jersey Project, Hamilton Trans Health Coalition, and the Get REAL movement, all dedicated to promoting equality, acceptance, and resources for the LGBTQ+ community.
Marley Bowen and Chris Studer, Executive Directors of the Get REAL Movement said “In yet another year of intense polarization, hate, and violence against marginalized communities, we are so grateful for the support from TPHT to help us continue to combat 2SLGBTQ+ discrimination, racism, and bullying across the country. With all the funds we receive going towards leadership opportunities for marginalized youth and educational programming delivered by inspiring Black and 2SLGBTQ+ role models, this partnership will undoubtedly have a direct positive impact on individuals and communities.”
The Queer Women and Trans Hockey Tournament serves as a beacon of progress within the sports world, challenging stereotypes and paving the way for a more inclusive future. By bringing together players, fans, and supporters with diverse experiences, the tournament exemplifies the transformative power of sport in uniting communities and driving positive change.
29, May 2024
Jusha International and Dextro Imaging Form Strategic Partnership
Tampa, FL, May 29, 2024 — In a groundbreaking move set to reshape the landscape of radiology, Jusha International, a leading diagnostic monitor company, has announced a strategic partnership with Dextro Imaging Specialists. This collaboration aims to deliver superior imaging solutions to radiologists worldwide at lower costs, without compromising on quality.
With the increasing demand for precise diagnostic imaging, radiologists are constantly seeking innovative technologies that can enhance accuracy while streamlining workflow. The alliance between Jusha International and Dextro Imaging Specialists represents a significant milestone in meeting these evolving needs.
Jusha International brings decades of expertise in developing cutting-edge diagnostic monitors renowned for their reliability and precision. By integrating their advanced monitor technologies with Dextro Imaging Specialists’ expertise in image processing and analysis, the partnership aims to revolutionize how radiologists interpret and diagnose medical images.
One of the primary goals of this collaboration is to make high-quality imaging solutions more accessible to healthcare facilities of all sizes. By leveraging economies of scale and optimizing production processes, Jusha International and Dextro Imaging Specialists are poised to significantly reduce the cost barrier associated with adopting state-of-the-art radiology equipment.
“Access to accurate and affordable imaging technology is paramount in modern healthcare,” remarked Dr. Michael Esposito, CEO of Dextro Imaging Specialists. “Through our partnership with Jusha International, we are committed to democratizing access to advanced imaging solutions, empowering radiologists to deliver superior patient care.”
The joint efforts of these two industry leaders are expected to yield a range of innovative products tailored to the unique needs of radiology professionals. From high-resolution diagnostic monitors with enhanced image clarity to AI-powered imaging software for automated analysis, the partnership promises to usher in a new era of efficiency and precision in medical imaging.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with Dextro Imaging Specialists in our mission to transform radiology,” stated Ivy Fang of Sr. VP of Jusha International. “By combining our strengths, we aim to set new standards for affordability and quality in diagnostic imaging, ultimately benefiting healthcare providers and patients alike.”
As the healthcare industry continues to embrace digitalization and automation, partnerships like the one between Jusha International and Dextro Imaging Specialists are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of radiology. With a shared commitment to innovation and excellence, these companies are poised to empower radiologists with the tools they need to deliver superior patient outcomes while driving down costs.
29, May 2024
T-Hub’s Skill India Digital Accelerator Program Selects 10 Startups to Shape India’s Future Workforce
India, 29th May 2024 – T-Hub, India’s leading startup incubator, in collaboration with NSDC, and Parivartan Startup Grants by HDFC, has successfully concluded the Skill India Digital Accelerator Program. The program is designed to catalyze innovation and growth within the skill development sector and has meticulously handpicked 10 promising startups to receive grants from Parivartan Startup Grants by HDFC.
The Skill India Digital Accelerator Program was launched with a visionary objective: to identify and empower startups revolutionizing skill development and enhancing employability across India. These startups are crucial in advancing workforce capabilities and innovating in skill development and employment readiness. The program also aims to enhance the Skill India Digital Platform by partnering with startups, improving features, and expanding accessibility to various stakeholders for a more inclusive skill development ecosystem. Partnering with esteemed organizations such as T-Hub, NSDC, and Parivartan Startup Grants by HDFC, sought to furnish crucial resources and funding to startups offering innovative solutions that address the evolving demands of the workforce.
From a pool of 369 applications, 10 startups have emerged as the chosen pioneers. These startups include Cunomial, Karmmin, Crion Versity, Humlogjobs, Vridhee Innovations Private Limited, Edubuk, Online Saathi, HowBee, SkyySkill Academy, and TheQube. Each selected startup received vital support and funding to further refine and scale their innovative solutions, thereby making significant contributions to the enhancement of skill development initiatives nationwide.
By collaborating with NSDC’s Skill India Digital Platform, these startups are poised to extend their impact and reach, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility across diverse communities and sectors. The program strategically focuses on areas such as opportunity discovery, multilingual interfaces, upskilling, and comprehensive coverage of government schemes. Additionally, it emphasizes financial inclusion for gig workers, entrepreneurship, and the utilization of AI for personalized recommendations to drive innovation and empowerment within the workforce.
Mahankali Srinivas Rao (MSR), CEO of T-Hub, expressed, “The Skill India Digital Accelerator Program underscores our collective dedication to nurturing Indian startups and propelling them towards innovation-led growth. T-Hub, in collaboration with our esteemed partners, is at the forefront of driving this change, ensuring that startups receive the necessary support to thrive. Through this program, we are not just shaping the future of skill development but also empowering Indian startups to lead the charge in building a skilled workforce for the nation.”
Mohit Kumar, DGM IT & Digital, NSDC remarked, “The Skill India Digital Accelerator Program is a game-changer for Indian startups, empowering them to drive impactful innovations in skill development. Through strategic collaborations, we’re shaping a future-ready workforce, essential for India’s growth.”
Ms. Neha Agrawal, Senior Vice President, Start-ups, HDFC Bank said, “We are dedicated to fostering impactful social start-ups that drive positive change within our communities. By backing incubators and accelerators, we aim to strengthen and cultivate the entire start-up ecosystem in India. Through the HDFC Bank Parivartan Start-up Grants, our goal is to empower these innovative ventures to achieve SDG targets and create a better future for all with their solutions.”
The Skill India Digital Accelerator Program stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in driving meaningful change within the skill development ecosystem. Through continued support and strategic partnerships, the program aims to nurture a future-ready workforce equipped with the skills needed to thrive in an ever-evolving global landscape.
29, May 2024
NSDC and ILO forge a strategic partnership to enhance Skill Development and Lifelong Learning
Bengaluru, 29th May 2024: Furthering the Skill Mission, the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) under the aegis of the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and the International Labour Organization (ILO) today announced a strategic partnership to advance skill development and lifelong learning in India and globally. This collaboration aims to empower individuals across the globe, by equipping them with essential competencies and qualifications, thereby enhancing employability and sustainable economic growth.
The MoU was signed by Mr. Ved Mani Tiwari, CEO, NSDC and MD, NSDC International, and Mr. Sangheon Lee, Director, Employment Policy, Job Creation and Livelihoods Department, ILO, reaffirming both organizations’ commitment to leveraging their strengths and expertise in talent development. This partnership is dedicated to developing effective policies, governance, and financing structures that will enhance skill development both nationally and internationally. A key aspect of the partnership is the implementation of the Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH). This digital transformation will streamline skill development initiatives, enhancing their efficiency, accessibility, and global impact.
Lauding the partnership Shri Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Government of India said, “We are pleased that a key aspect of our partnership is the adoption of the Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) and Governments, workers’ and employers’ organizations in ILO’s member countries will be able to use SIDH to digitize systems, processes, skills delivery, and job matching, based on a cost-effective model. This digital transformation will enhance the efficiency of skill development initiatives, making them more accessible and impactful globally. At MSDE, we are committed to creating policies and platforms that support lifelong learning and continuous skill development for our talent to succeed nationally and globally. SIDH exemplifies this commitment, and this partnership reflects our shared mission to empower individuals through skill development avenues, across borders.”
“By combining ILO’s expertise with our commitment to skilling, reskilling, and upskilling, we aim to empower individuals to navigate disruptions and create a sustainable future. Together, we will enhance skillsets and boost employability, driving impactful change in the evolving job market.” he further added.
The partnership aims to facilitate public-private partnerships and knowledge exchange to enhance Sector Skill Councils (SSCs), develop micro-credentials, and promote Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) through a global knowledge sharing platform. By strengthening the comparability of skills and qualifications, digital tools will be developed and deployed to assess and compare the skills and qualifications of Indian workers with those required in potential destination countries, improving mobility and global employability prospects for Indian workers.
Speaking on the partnership, Ved Mani Tiwari, CEO, NSDC and MD, NSDC International said, “The MoU between ILO and NSDC is a significant milestone for Skills Ecosystem in India. This partnership will help build a pool of Indian youth for global opportunities as the partnership aims to align and benchmark Indian qualifications with global skills standards. India becoming a preferred destination for GCCs, opens opportunities for Indian youth to participate in remotely delivered knowledge work for the whole world. Government’s focus on skilled migration opens opportunities for those who want to emigrate to join international workforce. We are also excited to work with ILO to develop regional qualification frameworks such as South Asian Qualification Framework which will help youth from our neighbouring countries also. NSDC’s partnership will also help offer NSDC Digital’s services and offerings to member countries of ILO.”
Speaking about the strategic partnership, Mr. Sangheon Lee, Director, Employment Policy, Job Creation and Livelihoods Department, ILO said, “We believe that by combining NSDC technological capacity and ILO standard setting functions, tripartism and global reach, we have the potential to significantly improve training access and quality globally. In this spirit, I am excited to embark on this new partnership with NSDC today. I expect this partnership will create a synergistic effect, amplifying our collective ability to lead the transformation of skills development, for greater social justice, not only in India, but globally.”
Promoting quality apprenticeships, work-based learning for employability and productivity, and the development of sustainable enterprises will be a cornerstone of this collaboration. By collaborating on data-driven approaches, ILO and NSDC aim to align skill development initiatives with the evolving demands of various industries.
In addition to policy development and data analysis, the partnership will prioritize the development and support of innovative learning programs. These programs will be designed to be flexible and inclusive, fostering adaptability among learners while ensuring that skills development remains relevant and accessible to all segments of society.
29, May 2024
52.2 percent urban educated men in India never bought a menstrual hygiene product for partner: everteen Menstrual Hygiene Survey
As the world celebrates the global Menstrual Hygiene Day movement, India’s leading feminine hygiene brand Everdeen has released the findings of its 9th annual menstrual hygiene survey. In line with MHDay’s theme of #PeriodFriendlyWorld this year, everteen expanded the reach of its survey to also include males and gauge their awareness on menstrual hygiene. The survey received more than 7800 responses from people aged 18-35 years, including participation from nearly 1000 men most of whom had completed graduation or above. everteen has also released a short Hindi film based on real events to highlight the need for educating men about menstrual periods.
60.2% of the men who participated in the everteen Menstrual Hygiene Survey 2024 said they spoke to their partner about periods very openly. However, more than half of men (52.2%) accepted they had never bought a menstrual product for their partner ever in life! Only 11.7% men said they take on extra responsibilities for the household tasks when their partner is on periods to ease her burden. 77.7% of men have done little to no research to educate themselves about menstruation to better understand their partner’s experience during periods.
69.8% men felt that social stigmas and taboos make it hard for them to discuss openly about periods with their female partners. 65.3% men agreed there should be more emphasis on educating males on menstruation.
Even this first step of including men in a survey about menstruation helped shift some perceptions as 41.3% males promised to educate themselves more about periods after taking this survey, while 27.7% said they will listen to their partner’s needs and provide support during periods. 21.2% men said they will communicate more openly with their partners on the subject.
Mr. Chirag Pan, CEO of PAN Healthcare, says, “Males must unequivocally participate if we want to truly realize the vision of a period-friendly world. If half of the world’s population is unconcerned or uneducated about periods, the goal of a period-friendly world cannot be accomplished. In a society like India where taboos make it hard for men to accept menstrual periods as a normal phenomenon, we have tried to make humble beginnings by including male participation in our everteen menstrual hygiene survey this year, and include them in conversations around menstruation. I am happy to see the positive impact with so many male participants promising to taking on additional actions to support their female partners during periods.”
Adds Mr. Hariom Tyagi, CEO of Wet and Dry Personal Care, the maker of everteen, “The responses we got from our everteen menstrual hygiene survey targeting women respondents also emphasise a need for creating more awareness among men on the subject of periods. Nearly 90% women said they do not feel comfortable discussing periods with their father or brother, while three in four women (77.4%) do not feel comfortable discussing it with their husbands! Only 8.4% women are comfortable discussing period-related issues with their male colleagues at workplace.”
The everteen menstrual hygiene survey also showed that 7.1% women still do not discuss periods with anyone in their family. 56.8% women still feel uncomfortable buying sanitary essentials from a grocery or chemist shop especially when other customers are present. 51.8% women were unable to sleep well during the first two days of periods, while a whopping 79.6% worried about the risk of spotting at night during sleep. 64.7% women experienced moderate to severe menstrual cramps. 53.1% women avoid going outdoors during periods. One in four women (25.8%) did not know what to do in case of a white discharge, and only 32.8% women consulted a doctor for the issue.
87.1% women felt that instead of providing menstrual leaves, companies should focus on creating menstrual-friendly workplaces, and 91.1% women felt companies that promote this concept would attract more female employees to join.
Every year, everteen undertakes a massive exercise to engage with women in India to encourage them to speak up on the issue of menstruation openly. As a pioneer in complete feminine intimate hygiene, everteen continually promotes awareness of feminine and menstrual hygiene through campaigns like #FixYourPeriods, #SheNeedsPad and #PadHerLife. Today, everteen offers more than 35 different feminine hygiene and wellness products for women including Period Care sanitary pads, Relax Nights Ultra overnight sanitary pads, silicone menstrual cups, menstrual cup cleansers, tampons, panty liners, bikini line hair remover crèmes, pH-balanced intimate washes, toilet seat sanitizer, feminine serums, gels and more.
