Category Archives: News

Executive Community Leaders Came Together for a Roundtable Discussion

Plainfield, NJ, April 16, 2024 — Leveraging Community Partnership with Executive Community Stakeholders Initiatives for 2024.

On Wednesday, April 10, the Housing Authority of Plainfield (HAP) and Crescent Avenue Presbyterian Church held a roundtable discussion with executive community leaders addressing solutions for homelessness prevention. The event, titled, “Leveraging Community Partnership with Executive Community Stakeholders Initiatives for 2024” was co-hosted by HAP’s Joanne Hollis Gardens (JHG) Community Resource Center and served as a community behavioral health platform for crisis management through educational awareness.

Key moderators and panelists included:

Distinguished Guest and the Honored Team: The Briar Patch Collaboratory Executive Director Alexis Jemal, LCSW, LCADC, MA, JD, PhD

Coldwell Banker Westfield East Broker Sales Associate Heidi Ann Mucci

HAP’s JHG Community Resource Center Director of Community Programs Eric Graham, PHM and Deputy Director Scotty McFarland

Crescent Avenue Presbyterian Church Reverend Lynn Santulli

Neighborhood Health Corporation Outreach Manager Laron Atins

The Mental Health Association in New Jersey New Jersey Mental Health Players Director Lynette Sheard

The Elizabeth Coalition to House the Homeless Executive Director Linda Flores-Tober

Families & Community Together (FACT) Chief Executive Officer Anthony Cameli

Union County Prosecutor’s Office The Honorable William A. Daniel and Community Prosecution Division Director & ARRIVE Program Director Gina Iosim

Plainfield School District Board of Commissioners President Hanae M. Wyatt

HAP Executive Director Randall M. Wood stated, “The quality of life for families and children of Union County has been improved drastically as a result of this initiative, and it’s the efficient collaboration of community leaders that has made it possible.”

JHG Community Resource Center Director of Community Programs Eric Graham, PHM said, “The Leveraging of Community Stakeholders Initiative meetings are all-inclusive with an approach of obtaining wraparound services for the entire family through results-driven communication and community partners to decrease the duplication of services and make a significant impact to all residents.”

The Leveraging of Community Partnership with Leaders of Stakeholders Initiative was created in 2009 by Eric Graham at the Housing Authority of Plainfield and remains in an upbeat effect, has been a strong all-inclusive tool with the community affiliates in engaging various executive
partners to build an impactful relationship that has worked for many years.

Since the initiative’s inception, the quality of of life for many families and children in and around Union County has been improved through these results-driven wraparound services which includes: education awareness for realistic resources and sustainability that has provided advocacy for homelessness crisis prevention, team building, cultural diversity, gender transparency, behavioral health, dual addiction treatment, youth empowerment, employment opportunities, senior services, and transformational change through its efficient community collaboration of leaders.

White House Kintsugi Pottery Gift for the Japanese Prime Minister

Lewes, DE, April 15, 2024 –The Kintsugi pottery of Bachar’s was a crafted stoneware vase. What makes this piece unique is the incorporation of the 23.5K gold Kintsugi process, a Japanese art form that repairs broken pottery with gold, symbolizing the beauty of imperfection and the journey of healing.

Bachar expressed his delight at seeing the Kintsugi metaphor embraced on the international stage. “I am honored to have had the opportunity to share this symbol of renewal and healing as a white House gift to Japan’s leader and his wife,” said Bachar. “The Kintsugi work on this vase represents not only the beauty of imperfection but also the strength found in embracing our flaws and celebrating our journey towards wholeness.”

The link below is to a video showcasing the highlights of the creation process offering a glimpse into the the steps taken and of the White House welcome ceremony.

Thailand Announces New IYBC 2024 Dates

Bangkok, Thailand, April 15, 2024 –Today the new dates of the International Youth Basketball Championships 2024 (IYBC 2024) were announced. The four-day tournament, organized by the Parent Group of Thai Youth Basketball Players and supported by the Basketball Sport Association of Thailand (BSAT) will take place from August 2-5, 2024 at Rugby School Thailand, Chonburi Province, Thailand.

“We’re pleased that the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) has approved the International Youth Basketball Championships (IYBC) for the second year. This shows the FIBA always values and continues to encourage the development of youth basketball in the region.

“The International Youth Basketball Championships (IYBC) has proven to be a platform that serves and promotes our commitment as was evident from the previous tournament in April 2023 which saw 4,300 participants across 42 teams from Thailand and abroad. I do believe that the IYBC 2024 will continue to offer broader and more challenging experiences for our young athletes,” said BSAT President Mr. Nipondh Chawalitmontien.

Mr. Nataphol Teepsuwan, Owner of Rugby School stated that Rugby School of Thailand is a co-educational, international school for day and boarding students aged 2-18. The school recognizes the importance of education outside, as well as within the classroom. It develops mind, body and spirit – educating the “whole person.”

“Our School’s state-of-the-art 80-acre campus always promotes a healthy, active student lifestyle. Therefore, a lot of International school and community sporting activities have taken place at our school over the past 2 years. We also would like to extend an invitation to the athletes and coaches to experience our on-campus accommodations, food and beverages while they join the IYBC 2024 in Thailand,” added Mr. Teepsuwan.

The Parent Group of Thai Youth Basketball Players, the IYBC 2024 organizer, strives to deliver a great experience for international teams while also accommodating their needs. Coach Federico Samson and Coach Sheng Yang (Jim) Kao, both dedicated coaches with extensive experience in youth basketball development and activities, have been assigned to actively engage with teams from all over the world.

More than 800 athletes from 60 teams around the world are expected to participate in the competition, which will be played across boys’ and girls’ divisions in four age groups: under-12s, under-14s, under-16s and under-18s. The IYBC 2024 tournament will be conducted in strict adherence to the 5-on-5 rules of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA).

The IYBC 2024 tournament has already received positive responses from teams from Australia, India, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, UAE, USA and Vietnam and has extended the early bird registration for overseas teams to April 30, 2024.

YMCA Summer Camp Adventure: Exciting Job Opportunities

Albuquerque, NM, April 15, 2024 — Job openings are available now at YMCA’s Camp Shaver in Jemez Springs, New Mexico.

Positions Available:

Camp Counselors: As a camp counselor, you will serve as a mentor, leader, and friend to our campers. You will facilitate activities, foster positive relationships, and ensure the safety and well-being of all participants.

Challenge Course Leader and Logistics Coordinator: Lead campers through daily activities. Oversee camp logistics such as planning overnights, assisting with check in and check out and ensuring that camp operations and activities run safely.

Kitchen Staff: From preparing nutritious meals to maintaining a clean and organized kitchen, our kitchen staff plays a vital role in keeping our camp running smoothly. If you have experience in food service and a passion for ensuring campers are well-fed and energized for their adventures, we want to hear from you.

Medical Staff: The health and safety of our campers are paramount. We seek certified medical professionals, including nurses and first aid responders, to provide medical care and support throughout the summer.

How to Apply:

If you’re ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime, visit the YMCA website at https://ymcacnm.org/about/career-center/ to learn more about their available positions and to submit your application. Take your chance to be a part of something extraordinary this summer.

Nancy Erickson Selected as a VIP for Spring 2024 by P.O.W.E.R.

Arcadia, FL, April 11, 2024 –Nancy Erickson of Arcadia, Florida, has been selected as a VIP for Spring 2024 by P.O.W.E.R. (Professional Organization of Women of Excellence Recognized) for her outstanding achievements and contributions in the field of sports.

About Nancy Erickson
Nancy Erickson is known as a trailblazer for women’s sports during the era of Title IX. After a remarkable career in baseball and softball, she tried her hand at women’s professional tackle football at the age of 35, taking on the role of a middle linebacker for the Toledo Troopers. A true pioneer in her field, Erickson was an integral part of the Toledo Troopers, who were World Champions in the NWFL from 1971 to 1977.

After her season with the Toledo Troopers, Nancy relocated to Florida, where she served as the inaugural recreation supervisor for Arcadia and DeSoto County. During her tenure, she established the state’s first inclusive girls’ junior high softball team. She remained dedicated to launching various girls’ sports teams in Arcadia and played an active role in advocating for the implementation of Title IX in local schools. Additionally, she provided guidance to high school and college students and graduates as they navigated educational and life transitions.

From 1974 to 1992, Nancy and her partner operated the H&R Block in DeSoto County before retiring. Presently, Nancy is a public speaker and conducts workshops with high schools, colleges, sports teams, and elite sports organizations.

Nancy’s stellar career has been adorned with numerous accolades. Her accomplishments include being recognized as a member of the Title IX Performance Team in 1978, induction into the Florida Special Olympics Hall of Fame in 1993, the reception of the Annette Lynch Lifetime Achievement Award in Coaching from Special Olympics North America in 2022, the receipt of the 2022 Lifetime Achievement Award from the City of Arcadia Recreation Department for Community Service, the University of Michigan Lifetime Achievement Award in Kinesiology in 2016, and her inclusion in the Baseball Hall of Fame as a member of the Kalamazoo Lassies.

In July 2014, along with her Troopers teammates, Erickson was inducted into the Women’s Football Foundation Hall of Fame. She is also prominently featured in the documentary titled “We are the Troopers: The Women of the Winningest Team in Pro Football History.”

Nancy obtained her B.A. from the University of Michigan in 1966. In her spare time, she enjoys golfing, her involvement in the Special Olympics, and camping.

Strathmore’s Who’s Who Worldwide Publication Introduces New Members

Farmingdale, NY, April 11, 2024 — Strathmore’s Who’s Who Worldwide introduces its newest members who will be included in the online publication for their contributions and achievements in the many fields listed below.

About New Members
Strathmore’s Who’s Who Worldwide is pleased to introduce its newest members who are now part of the online website:

Stephanie M. Carrasco–Healthcare
Jean A. Moran–Education, Theater
Brennan Gleason–Arts, Entertainment, and Fashion
Dave W. Schroeder–Educational Athletic Supply
Thomas C. Baldassarre–Entertainment
Gwendolyn L. Thomas–Education
Holly G. Pugh–Apparel
Jessica M. Semyonova–Healthcare
Deloris Pinson–Nonprofit
Jane Moore–Hospitality
Eric W. Vollheim–Government
Barbara Major–Real Estate
David T. Rasey–Automotive
Kyshia L. Shackles–Healthcare
Claudia Y. Arias–Healthcare
Mark M. Baker–Legal
Sharon L. Bracher-Smith–Nonprofit
Zandra L. Cegielski–Real Estate
Mitch M. Martin–Contracting
Bobby Langford–Nonprofit
Thomas Gramuglia–Entertainment
Tyler Blakely–Engineering
Jennifer Lyn Johnson Barnes–Real Estate
Timothy W. Weddell–Industrial Chaplaincy
Michele Wallace Campanelli–Literature
Linda Soehner–Education
Andrew D. Krauss–Automotive
Thomas F. O’Neill–Financial Services
Natalie C. Anderson–Food and Beverage
Tessa Johnson–Real Estate
Donald J. Leith–Housing Construction
Garrett P. Bergeron–Transportation and Logistics
Theodore “Ted” Garcia–Hospitality
Ocelia M. Pearsall–Healthcare
John J. Pryor–Construction
Enrique Gonzalez–Coaching
Elaine Furey–Healthcare
Jennifer W. Degen–Somatic Coaching
Ronald T. Brooks–Marketing and graphic design
Jacqueline D. Childs–Automotive
Ayesha N. Everett–Real Estate and Finance
Jo Ann Buie Way–Military/Community Services
Sarah J. Dunkin–Hospitality
Les R. Medall–Finance
Andre L. Blackwell–Arts and Entertainment
Joel Kessler–Publishing
Robert J. Kowalski–Real Estate and Literature
Louis Sica–Education, Science
David W. Scott–Construction
Amy Kay Hamlin–Education
David H. Luding–Consulting
Maurine C. Howard–Nonprofit
Ginger Graf–E-commerce, Retail
Stanley L. Hinton–Healthcare
Larry E. Swank–Construction
Michael L. Gemperline–Healthcare
Gemini Krikkett–Art, Spirituality
Dorian M. Hayes–Real Estate
Kimberly A. Wills–Real Estate

LeMareschal Introducing Its Subsidiary Athena Worldwide

Seattle, WA, April 11, 2024 –– LeMareschal is proudly introducing its subsidiary, Athena Worldwide. In a rapidly evolving security landscape, the demand for female bodyguards has surged over the past 15 years. Reflecting this growing need, Athena Worldwide, a premier international security organization, stands at the forefront, dedicated to empowering women to excel in the fields of Executive Protection and Intelligence services.

Female Bodyguards are increasingly sought after for their unparalleled versatility, strategic acumen, and discretion. Trained to seamlessly blend into urban surroundings, Athena Worldwide Female Bodyguards undertake the same responsibilities as their male counterparts while offering an added layer of protection. Notably, some of their operatives are certified as child protective security specialists, known as “Nannyguards,” or Security Chaperones for teenagers, ensuring the safety of children alongside their primary duties.

“Our worldwide network of Female Bodyguards adheres to the strongest code of ethics in the Security industry,” says Chris Grow, Director of Operations at Athena Worldwide. “This commitment to integrity and professionalism sets us apart as a trusted provider of security services.”

All the Female Bodyguards are strictly vetted and undergo continuous training and development, to stay abreast of the latest advancements in the protective security industry. Their ongoing executive protection education is regularly updated to address the evolving demands of modern security issues, guaranteeing that the team remains at the forefront of excellence.

“The increasing demand for female professionals in the security industry is a testament to the changing landscape of threats and clientele,” adds Chris Grow. More women are ascending to leadership roles across various sectors, driving the need for female protective agents.”

For women aspiring to enter the field of Executive Protection, Athena Worldwide offers unparalleled opportunities for growth and advancement. With a commitment to empowering women, they provide comprehensive training and support to help individuals succeed in this challenging yet rewarding profession. Now is the time to embark on a career in the security industry. Join Athena Worldwide and become part of a dynamic team dedicated to safeguarding clients and empowering women in security.

Dancer Ranjana Gauhar Hosts Su-Tarang 2024 Dance Recital

World Dance Day Celebrations by Utsav Educational and Cultural Society

April 11th, 2024: As World Dance Day approaches, Odissi exponent Smt. Ranjana Gauhar brings forth her young and budding disciples to perform on Saturday, April 21st, 2024 at Triveni Kala Sangam at 6:30 pm in her annual presentation Su-Tarang propelled and conceptualized by Utsav Educational and Cultural Society, founded by her.

Su-Tarang is Ranjana’s interpretation of making the young generation appreciate the beauty of Odissi Dance as an art and inculcate discipline in them for overall development of their personalities. It is her version of helping them imbibe the riches of Indian heritage and culture whilst enriching their intellect.

A Padmashree Awardee (2003), Smt. Ranjana Gauhar, deems it her prime responsibility to educate, train and mould young minds to imbibe the cultural values of rich traditions in the Guru- Shishya Parampara, which when practiced in daily lives, help to achieve perfection and a sense of responsibility towards self, family and the society at large.

Whilst marching forward towards creating waves and promoting Indian Dance and Culture, Ranjanaji remarks, “We at Utsav aim to empower the disciple through dance for maintaining harmony and balance in the society. The success story of Utsav is that we let children blossom in an environment of love, proper guidance. They are nurtured through disciplined training and are given opportunities to express themselves by showcasing their talent on stage year after year.”

Accredited with umpteen of prestigious a accolades including National Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (2007), Senior Fellowship for her research in the temple tradition of Odissi dance by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, the Indira Gandhi Priyadarshini Award and Mahari Award in 2007, Delhi Ratna Award, Ranjanaji’s performances bear the signature of a distinctive style because of her extensive training in Chhau, Kathak and Manipuri as well. Her extensive background has led her to boldly explore and reach out to other creative expressions such as authoring a book “Odissi, The Dance Divine”, which was released in 2007.

Utsav founded by Smt Ranjana Gauhar, believes in the spirit of Guru- Shishya Parampara where reinforcement of discipline, fundamental character–building and capacity to create a vision in the minds of the disciples is constantly been nurtured and imparted. Many students of Utsav are receiving National scholarship from Ministry of Culture and from various other organization like ICCR under the Ministry of External affairs, Sahitya Kala Parishad – Delhi Government, and has even received the prestigious President’s award “Bismillah Khan Yuva Puruskar” from sangeet Natak Akademi. Some of the students are from abroad, countries like Poland, UK, Trinidad, Spain, Argentina, Norway, Russia, Germany and Brazil to name a few.