7, Jun 2024
Florida Literacy Awards and Grantees Honored at 40th Annual Florida Literacy Conference
Orlando, FL, June 07, 2024 — The Florida Literacy Coalition (FLC) hosted its 40th Annual Florida Literacy Conference from May 8-10 at the Orlando Marriott Lake Mary, bringing together adult education, literacy, and ESOL practitioners to network and share promising practices. The three-day statewide conference provided over 65 training and professional development sessions for adult education and literacy tutors, students, teachers, and program administrators.
Dr. Barbara Crump, author of “From GED to PhD: My Journey Toward Becoming an Extraordinary Woman,” was the opening keynote speaker sharing her journey of resilience and the importance of continual growth, inspiring others to embrace their own paths of self-discovery.
In partnership with the Florida Blue Foundation, 12 Florida organizations were awarded $5,000 grants in support of local integrated health literacy programs under the Florida Health Literacy Initiative.
The 2024 Adult Learner Essay book, Pathways, was unveiled during the FLC’s Annual Meeting accompanied by some of the published student authors who read their inspiring stories aloud. The essay book comprises over 200 essays written by adults in various education programs throughout the state and is one of FLC’s most popular projects.
Florida Literacy Awards
The 40th annual conference concluded with the Florida Literacy Awards Luncheon to recognize and honor five outstanding individuals and organizations for their contributions to local literacy programs in the Sunshine State. Steve Berry, New York Times and #1 internationally bestselling author of twenty-three novels, gave the closing luncheon and awards ceremony keynote speech.
This year’s Florida Literacy Award recipients include the following:
Excellence in Education Award – Adult Literacy League (Orlando, FL)
Honors an organization demonstrating achievement, innovation, leadership, or organizational excellence in support of adult basic education, literacy, and/or family literacy education in Florida. This award was accompanied by a contribution of $1,000, sponsored by NorthWest Federal Credit Union.
Flight for Freedom Award – Gabriel Lewis, Literacy Alliance of Northeast Florida (Jacksonville, FL)
Honors an adult student who has demonstrated exceptional accomplishment in improvement of literacy or leadership skills. This award was accompanied by two complimentary round-trip airline tickets from Southwest Airlines.
Mary J. Brogan Leadership Award – Phil Anderson, Florida Department of Education (Tallahassee, FL)
Recognizes a Florida resident whose support of literacy exhibits the highest standards of excellence, dedication, leadership, creativity, and accomplishment.
Outstanding Community Partner Award – Jacksonville Housing Authority (Jacksonville, FL)
Honors a community or business partner for leadership or significant contributions in support of literacy at the local, regional, or state level.
Outstanding Literacy Volunteer Award – Mike Godown, Literacy Services of Indian River County (Vero Beach, Florida)
Honors a literacy volunteer who has demonstrated exceptional service and commitment in either tutoring or program operations.
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- By Rabindra
6, Jun 2024
Scientology Media Productions Scores Victory at Viddy Awards
Los Angeles, CA, June 06, 2024 — Scientology Media Productions was honored with 14 Viddy Awards, including 7 Platinum, in the 2024 international awards competition honoring video excellence in the digital world.
Scientology Media Productions is a state-of-the-art multimedia communications center located in the heart of Hollywood and home to Scientology Network. Airing 24/7, the station launched in 2018 and has been viewed by millions in over 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages.
Now in its sixth season, the network’s original programming continues to be recognized for creative excellence and has been lauded for its diverse, compelling content and exceptional production quality.
The productions in the Broadcast/Cable/Subscription TV and Commercials categories honored are as follows:
Platinum Award WinnersS
· Operation: Do Something About It – Programs | Documentary
· Destination: Scientology, Bogotá – Programs | Cultural
· Voices for Humanity: Marshall Faulk – Programs | Social Responsibility
· Voices for Humanity: Lance Dyer – Programs | Social Responsibility
· Meet a Scientologist: Christopher Hill – Programs | Automotive
· Meet a Scientologist: Marni Atherton – Programs | Food & Beverage
· Meet a Scientologist: Armando Siracusano and Gabriella Comis – Programs | Food & Beverage
Gold Award Winners
· “Decide for Yourself” Scientology ad – Web Commercials | Nonprofit
· Destination: Scientology, Johannesburg – Programs | Cultural
· Meet a Scientologist: Cristal Logothetis – Programs | Nonprofit
· Meet a Scientologist: Colm O’Halloran – Programs | Sports
· Meet a Scientologist: Guy Taylor – Programs | Sports
· Meet a Scientologist: Matt Brown – Programs | Entertainment
· Meet a Scientologist: Satinder Chawla – Programs | Entertainment
See more award-winning content at scientology.tv.
The Scientology Network debuted on March 12, 2018. Since launching, the Scientology Network has been viewed in over 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages. Satisfying the curiosity of people about Scientology, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists; showing the Church as a global organization; and presenting its social betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. The network also showcases documentaries by Independent filmmakers who represent a cross section of cultures and faiths, but share a common purpose of uplifting communities. Scientology Network’s innovative content has been recognized with more than 125 industry awards, including Tellys, Communitas and Hermes Creative Awards.
Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church’s global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse and can be streamed at scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.
6, Jun 2024
Keep Irving Beautiful Recognized as Gold Star Affiliate by Keep Texas Beautiful
Irving, TX, June 06, 2024 –Keep Texas Beautiful (KTB), a statewide grassroots environmental and community improvement non-profit organization, recently named Keep Irving Beautiful (KIB) a Gold Star Affiliate. Gold Star recognition is the highest membership recognition status any community affiliate can achieve.
“Keep Texas Beautiful affiliates are the backbone of our organization. We are proud to honor those going above and beyond to keep their communities clean and beautiful,” says Suzanne Kho, Executive Director of Keep Texas Beautiful. “Our Gold Star Affiliates are educating and engaging community members, actively recruiting and managing volunteers, hosting cleanup and beautification events throughout their community, and so much more.”
In 2023, KTB affiliates engaged over 32,000 volunteers in over 500 cleanups who contributed to collecting 3.7 million pounds of waste and recyclables from Texas roadways, trails, and waterways. Keep Irving Beautiful successfully implemented programs to clean up litter, reduce and recycle waste, educate local citizens, and their work beautifies and enhances the local community.
As Irving ‘s local affiliate of Keep Texas Beautiful, KIB hosted activities which engaged 8,049 volunteers who contributed 10,847 hours of service. They collected 25,746 pounds of trash and 7,909 pounds of recyclables in cleanups, enhanced the visual appeal of several parks with paint projects, and helped to plant 38 trees in public spaces.
KIB Board President Jim Scrivner credited volunteers for the success of the organization. “KIB accomplishes so much in the Irving community, and it is important to us to strive for the highest levels of achievement. We could not do that without the dedication of our volunteers,” said Scrivner. “We are proud to be a Keep Texas Beautiful affiliate, and we thank KTB for this honor.”
Affiliates that reach Gold Star status have demonstrated organizational aptitude and have robust community support. To achieve Gold Star status, affiliates share their mission and goals, answer questions about their economic development and diversity and inclusion practices, or participate in the Beautify Texas Awards or Governor’s Community Achievement Awards programs. They also provide a letter of support from their community. KTB will formally recognize Gold Star communities during the KTB Conference in June.
5, Jun 2024
EPACK Prefab Concludes Sustainability-Boosting WasteToWorth Campaign in Environment Week
EPACK Prefab, a leading provider of pre-engineered buildings and prefabricated structures, celebrated Environment Week with a remarkable initiative, the WasteToWorth campaign, which began on May 28th. The campaign, aimed at promoting sustainability and recycling, kicked off with a captivating teaser video shared across EPACK Prefab’s social media platforms, encouraging people to share their recycling practices, accompanied by the hashtag #WasteToWorth.
This was followed by a special video message from the EPACK Prefab’s leadership, who emphasized the importance of transforming waste into valuable resources. The campaign gained traction on social media, throughout the week, with numerous posts and shares highlighting the campaign’s activities and objectives.
EPACK Prefab collaborated with Pankti Pandey, a well-known environmental activist and zero-waste practitioner recognized by Forbes in 2023. Pandey used her influential social media presence to spread awareness about sustainability and the WasteToWorth campaign. “This initiative by EPACK Prefab is a powerful reminder that our waste can indeed be turned into worth. By adopting eco-friendly lifestyles, we can collectively make a significant impact on the planet,” Pandey shared.
One of the significant activities of the campaign took place, when EPACK Prefab visited and donated benches to school kids made from the steel waste of their manufacturing plant. This initiative not only provided much-needed seating for the students but also demonstrated EPACK Prefab’s commitment to recycling and sustainability. “Seeing the smiles on the children’s faces was incredibly rewarding. It’s a small step towards a greener future. Through the #WasteToWorth campaign, we aim to inspire others in the industry to adopt sustainable practices and think creatively about waste management,” said Sanjay Singhania, reflecting on the event.
Nikhel Bothra, Director of EPACK Prefab, added, “Our initiative to donate benches to school kids demonstrates our commitment to giving back to the community and making a tangible difference. It’s rewarding to see how recycled materials can be repurposed to benefit others, and we plan to continue such efforts in the future.”
The impact of the bench donation on the school has been profound, providing students with comfortable seating and a constant reminder of the importance of recycling and sustainability. The school administration expressed gratitude towards EPACK Prefab for their thoughtful contribution, noting the positive influence it has had on the students’ awareness of environmental issues.
The WasteToWorth campaign has garnered significant attention and engagement, underscoring EPACK Prefab’s firm commitment to environmental causes. Through this campaign, EPACK Prefab demonstrates its innovative approaches and unwavering dedication to environmental responsibility, setting a benchmark for the industry. The company’s focus on constructing prefabricated and pre-engineered buildings materials not only aligns with the WasteToWorth initiative but also significantly contributes to conserve resources. By prioritizing the limitation of hazardous substances and strict adherence to local environmental legislation, EPACK Prefab showcases its excellence in environmental performance, thereby reinforcing its work.
“Steel for Smiles”
The WasteToWorth initiative is a pillar of the EPACK Prefab’s umbrella campaign – Steel for Smiles.
It is a platform for raising awareness towards environment conservation and sustainability and building a community that takes care of each other.
Through this ground-breaking initiative, repurposing waste steel to create opportunities for communities in need. “Steel for Smiles” is not just an initiative, it will be a testament to the commitment to making a tangible difference in the society and environment.
A way of making a meaningful difference in the world, Steel for Smiles will support education, healthcare, environmental sustainability, and community development. At the heart of this innovative effort, lies a deep commitment to giving back to society and the environment by bringing smiles, delivering hope, and the promise of a better tomorrow to the individuals and communities.
5, Jun 2024
International Nuclear Solutions Joins Texas Nuclear Alliance as a Founding Member
Austin, TX, June 05, 2024 — The Texas Nuclear Alliance is proud to announce that International Nuclear Solutions (INS), a leader in nuclear workforce development, has joined the Alliance as a Founding Member. This collaboration highlights INS’s dedication to advancing the nuclear industry by providing a highly qualified and trained workforce, positioning Texas as a leader in rebuilding the nation’s nuclear workforce.
“We are thrilled to welcome International Nuclear Solutions as a founding member of the Texas Nuclear Alliance,” said Reed Clay, President of the Texas Nuclear Alliance. “Their expertise in nuclear workforce development is invaluable, and their commitment to training a highly skilled workforce aligns with our mission to make Texas the hub of the nuclear industry.”
Based in Austin, TX, International Nuclear Solutions is dedicated to providing top-tier training and education for the nuclear workforce in order to meet the industry’s needs for a skilled workforce. By joining TNA, INS aims to ensure that Texas is at the forefront of efforts to rebuild the nation’s nuclear workforce, supporting the growth and sustainability of the nuclear industry.
“We are honored to be a part of the Texas Nuclear Alliance,” said Roberto Ramon, CEO of International Nuclear Solutions. “Our goal is to provide a highly qualified and trained workforce that will drive the nuclear industry forward. Partnering with TNA allows us to contribute significantly to making Texas a leader in nuclear workforce development.”
5, Jun 2024
Jennifer Chavous Chosen as a Woman of the Month for May 2024 by P.O.W.E.R.
Atlanta, GA, June 05, 2024 — Jennifer H. Chavous of Atlanta, Georgia, has been chosen as a Woman of the Month for May 2024 by P.O.W.E.R. (Professional Organization of Women of Excellence Recognized) for her outstanding contributions and achievements in the field of transportation and real estate.
About Jennifer Chavous
Jennifer Chavous is the owner of At Your Service Executive Limousine, a national car service offering executive limousine, black car, and concierge service for all types of business, public and personal events, functions, and tours.
With a diverse entrepreneurial background and employment history, Chavous started out in the service industry and moved on to become an entrepreneur in several businesses. In addition to her At Your Service Executive Limousine, she is also a licensed Realtor and founder of JC Enterprises, a real estate-based asset management consulting firm that has been in business for over 25 years. As founding principal, Chavous is solely responsible for the company’s overall administration. She coordinates administration and management of the company’s clientele and projects, offers real estate consulting and lecturing, training in asset management, and real estate asset management.
When asked about the secret to her success, Chavous says, “I pride myself on being empathetic toward my staff, clients, and people in general. Empathy is a valuable leadership skill and is sometimes perceived as a weakness in women. I actively try to address and promote diversity, mentorship, and advocacy for women in the transportation/car service business, in real estate, and as a consultant. By actively addressing these issues, I feel I can create a more inclusive, supportive, and successful environment.”
Chavous possesses real estate licenses in Georgia, California, and South Carolina. She received her B.S. in Business from the University of South Carolina. She is a Certified HQS Inspector, Certified in LITHC Tax Credits, and a Certified Asset Management Consultant.
In her spare time, Jennifer enjoys traveling, swimming, jazz, tennis, reading, investing, and being with her family.
5, Jun 2024
Bernie Taupin Enjoys an American Resurrection at Monthaven Arts and Cultural Center in Hendersonville, TN
Hendersonville, TN, June 05, 2024 — Bernie Taupin’s lifelong love for American history and pop culture comes to the fore in a new exhibition at the Monthaven Arts and Cultural Center. The exhibit, titled An American Resurrection, will run from June 9 to July 14, 2024 and feature 25 of the artist’s major works.
“We are thrilled to showcase the art of Bernie Taupin at Monthaven,” says Cheryl Strichik, the MACC’ s executive director. “Most people probably think of Bernie as a songwriter, so they may be surprised to see he is also a master of the visual arts.”
Taupin, of course, is best known for his 50-year songwriting partnership with Elton John. They became a veritable hit-making machine during the 1970s. Together, they made history, creating a substantial catalog of original songs that have sold more than 300 million records worldwide.
In addition to these musical endeavors, Taupin has also been a long-time visual artist, something he’s pursued since the early 1990s. His early work was inspired by groundbreaking Abstract Expressionists, including Hans Hoffman, Franz Kline, Anselm Kiefer, and Robert Rauschenberg.
Taupin says, “As in any creative field, we start by emulating work we like, following the path that ultimately leads to finding our own vision, a style we feel is original and unique in its own beliefs, on its own merits.”
Taupin’s artwork evolved from explorations of Abstract Expressionism to experimentations with text-based content and minimalist Pop Art concepts. By 2017, his works became sculptural constructions bound with cord and wire on canvas. During this period, he often expressed himself with found objects and repurposed material and artifacts. Taupin’s multi-layered creations include manipulated flags, scorched paper, wax, wire, wood, corrugated cardboard, fabric, bubble wrap, and resin.
An American Resurrection is curated by Karen and Michael Bivins, International Gallerists. The opening takes place from 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, June 9, 2024. The event will feature light refreshments.
5, Jun 2024
World Premiere at Philadelphia International Music Festival
Philadelphia, PA, June 05, 2024 — Among its abundant schedule of solo performances, symphonic concerts, master classes and recitals, The Philadelphia International Music Festival, featuring members of The Philadelphia Orchestra, will host the world premiere of a trio for English horn, violin, and cello, called “Sun Through Stone” by the multiple Emmy Award-winning composer, Stephen Cohn. The concert will take place at Valley Forge Military Academy and College in Wayne, PA, on Monday, June 24, 2024 at 7 p.m.
The new work will be performed by Elizabeth Starr Masoudnia, solo English horn, The Philadelphia Orchestra; Gloria DePasquale, cello, The Philadelphia Orchestra; and Mitchell Newman, violin, the Los Angeles Philharmonic.
“In all my compositions, I strive to take the listener on a journey that is thought provoking and emotionally meaningful,” said Mr. Cohn, who will be at the premiere. “I see my role, not only as the creator of designed sound, but as one who builds a bridge, a clear connection between the listener and the music.”
Young musicians interested in working with principal players and other members of the world-famous Philadelphia Orchestra can still find a summer music home at The Philadelphia International Music Camp and Festival this year. Chat online for additional information at: pimf.org or phone: 856.875.6816.
5, Jun 2024
Black America Resource Directory Launches Digital Directory to Provide Assistance Across Communities
Moreno Valley, CA, June 05, 2024 — Black America Resource Directory is a premier online directory serving the Black American community and individuals of color. Since its inception, the directory has been a vital resource for individuals seeking assistance with various needs, including housing, food, mental health support, and entrepreneurial opportunities.
The platform is committed to empowering individuals from all walks of life to access the information and resources they need to thrive, regardless of age, race, gender, or income level. Founder Connie King emphasizes the importance of fostering a sense of community and collective empowerment.
Black America Resource Directory is a digital resource enterprise launched in December 2020. It serves as a centralized hub for resources addressing a wide range of issues impacting Black Americans. With a user-friendly interface, the platform offers easy navigation and access to essential resources, particularly during challenging times such as the pandemic and other socio-economic upheavals.
5, Jun 2024
Metta Men’s Summit
Irving, TX, June 05, 2024 –Join Metta Association for the Metta Men’s Summit: Resilience, Growth, and Empowerment, a transformative event dedicated to supporting and uplifting men through dynamic discussions and workshops. This summit will focus on key areas essential for personal and communal growth, with a special emphasis on the experiences of Black men, while welcoming everyone to participate and benefit from the shared wisdom and resources.
Speakers include: George Brooks, Shawnnell “No BS” Batiste, Banky Pound, Bobby Home, Harvey Laguerre, Anthony Dodson, Harry Dent, lll, Alex Dumas and Michael Guinn.
Tickets: $25 includes VIP chat with speakers after the event.
Join Banky Pound and Metta Association’s efforts to improve circumstances for Black men and all people. Tickets are available now.
https://ticketstripe.com/events/8104105586936021
Donate to Metta Association via CashApp at $Mettaassociation
