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COMCAST LAUNCHES FLAGSHIP LIFT ZONE WITH SERJOBS IN HOUSTON TO ADVANCE DIGITAL SKILLS AND WORKFORCE OPPORTUNITIES

Comcast Texas

Comcast today unveiled its second Flagship Lift Zone in Houston’s East End that will help advance digital skills and opportunities for thousands of people. The Flagship Lift Zone, powered by Comcast Business, is located at SERJobs’ Workforce Resource and Training Center and includes a grant of more than $500,000 to fund a comprehensive technology makeover and expanded programming to teach digital and technical skills. Building on its legacy of the award-winning Lift Zones program, SERJobs is the first Flagship location in Texas and one of 54 Lift Zones across the Houston metro area. “Lift Zones are about more than just providing free access to the Internet. They are about teaching people how to use the power of broadband to transform their lives and careers,” said Loren Hudson, SVP and Chief Diversity Officer, Connectivity and Platforms, Comcast. “The biggest barrier to getting online is not having the skills or the resources to do so. With this Flagship Lift Zone, SERJobs is poised to make an even more profound impact, bridging the digital divide and opening doors to unlimited possibilities for thousands of Houstonians.” In addition to the existing free Wi-Fi, the Flagship Lift Zone’s facility and technology makeover includes: Renovations and design refresh in conference rooms, tech labs, training spaces, breakrooms and common areas. 48 new computers (38 desktops and10 laptops). Single and double occupancy privacy pods for either virtual or in-person meetings, trainings and job interviews. Upgraded audio and visual equipment in training and conference room areas. Additional seating with expanded Wi-Fi access throughout the facility. Comcast has been a decade-long partner of SERJobs. Over that time, Comcast has donated more than 1,000 new laptops and provided tens of thousands of dollars in grants to support and expand digital skills training. “The launch of the Comcast Lift Zone at SERJobs’ Workforce Resource and Training Center, is a game-changer for the Greater Houston community and the countless underserved individuals who will be served as a result,” SERJobs Chief Executive Officer Sheroo Mukhtiar said. “By providing access to essential digital literacy resources, this initiative not only empowers individuals to thrive in the digital age but also opens new doors for workforce development and economic opportunities. Together, we can transform lives and create a more inclusive and empowered community. We are so grateful to Comcast for the generosity and partnership!” Over the last three years, Comcast Texas has made more than $3 million in cash and in-kind contributions to more than 60 Houston-area nonprofit organizations. These contributions support local community programs that help establish and promote the company’s Digital Equity Network in Texas. Comcast’s network of digital equity partners helps people acquire computers, provides digital skills trainings and offers opportunities for community members to explore and train for careers in tech-related fields. They can also develop the kinds of digital skills that can help them pursue better careers and even launch and grow their own businesses. Comcast’s Lift Zones are part of Project UP, the company’s $1 billion commitment to advance digital opportunity and build a future of unlimited possibilities. Since its launch in 2020, Lift Zones have provided essential internet access for those in need outside the home, with more than 1,250 locations across the country. It also complements Comcast’s Internet Essentials program, which offers low-cost in-home broadband connectivity to qualifying households. About Comcast CorporationComcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. About SERJobs: SERJobs believes in the power of work! Through education, occupational trainings, employment placement, financial literacy, and digital navigation, SER, the Spanish verb meaning to be, empowers individuals from underserved and under-resourced communities to transform their lives. Comprehensive and strength-based services address and eliminate barriers to employment, for people over the age of 16, including opportunity youth, justice involved individuals, veterans, single parents, and anyone seeking a second chance. SERJobs’ programs are aligned with the needs of high-growth/high-demand industries across the Gulf Coast, creating pathways to livable wages and long-term financial stability. Guided by values of Service, Excellence, Respect, and Teamwork, SER is much more than jobs – it fosters hope, resilience, and purpose. Learn more at www.serjobs.org. Contact Details Comcast - Texas Region ilona Carson +1 346-624-2074 Ilona_Carson@comcast.com Company Website https://houston.comcast.com/

November 20, 2024 12:46 PM Eastern Standard Time

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Expert Toy Picks for the 2024 Holiday Season

YourUpdateTV

The holidays are underway, and while parents are planning to be more discerning with their budgets this year, toys remain a top priority. According to new research from The Toy Association™, 69% of parents plan to cut costs elsewhere to ensure their kids have the top toys for the holidays. Recently, Toy Trends Specialist at The Toy Association, Jennifer Lynch, teamed with D S Simon Media on a nationwide satellite media tour to share some of the top toys for the holiday season. A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://youtu.be/oXuok2biwoQ While toys based on kids’ favorite characters will certainly be driving kids’ ask, parents will also be seeking out toys that spark kids’ imaginations and provide learning benefits as they play. Here are some of the top toy picks for the 2024 holiday season: Spidey & His Amazing Friends Mega Jump HQ Trackset (Jazwares) Kids can launch their favorite Spidey characters down this 39-inch race track, which features Spidey’s Web-Quarters, an elevator, web tunnels, and ramps. With two exclusive vehicles and a mega jump, this action-packed set recreates scenes from the Spidey & His Amazing Friends TV show, offering hours of imaginative play. Transformers One Power Flip Optimus Prime (Orion Pax) (Hasbro) Inspired by the new Transformers One movie, this action figure transforms between four modes: Orion Pax, Cybertronian Truck, Optimus Prime, and Ultimate Optimus Prime. Lights, sounds, and action features bring the toy to life as kids flip between modes, celebrating 40 years of the Transformers franchise. LEGO Gravity Drop (Klutz) This STEM kit lets kids build and customize marble mazes with LEGO elements and papercraft components. With 168 LEGO pieces, kids can create various maze configurations and learn about physics and engineering through play. The set also includes an instruction book packed with engaging STEM content. Booksy Dome Figures (PMI Kids) Each collectible figure comes with a tiny book hidden inside featuring life lessons and colorful illustrations. Characters from PAW Patrol, Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and PMI’s Monster Tales make reading fun while encouraging interactive play. Play-Doh Pizza Delivery Scooter Playset (Hasbro) This scooter is a ride-on toy and a Play-Doh pizza-making playset all in one. Kids can create pretend pizzas using the included Play-Doh, then "deliver" them using the scooter’s built-in pizza box slot. The set comes with 10 Play-Doh colors and 16 accessories, encouraging active, creative play. For more information, visit TheGeniusofPlay.org About Jennifer Lynch As an official spokesperson and toy trends specialist for The Toy Association, Jennifer Lynch chats with toymakers throughout the year to track trends and developments impacting the toy aisles and kids’ entertainment. She is interviewed frequently by national and local consumer and business media on toy trends and related topics. She has appeared on ABC News, Good Morning America, Fox & Friends, KTLA-TV, WGN Chicago, WNBC New York, Bloomberg Radio, and CNET, among others, as well as in print publications including Forbes, the Wall Street Journal, New York Magazine, Inc. Magazine, The Spruce, and others. She also served as the narrator for The Genius of Play’s "Once Upon a Playtime" podcast, which invited listeners to rediscover the value of play through real-life, personal stories of actors, artists, entrepreneurs, and more. Jennifer has over a decade of experience covering the toy and kids’ entertainment industries. Prior, she served as the editorial & creative manager for aNb Media and its b2c review site TTPM.com, where she oversaw all digital and print communications, reviewed product, and co-hosted a web series conducting in-depth interviews with toy industry executives. She began her career in her home state of Pennsylvania, handling marketing communications for Penn State’s art galleries (her alma mater). She resides in New Jersey with her husband and energetic three-year-old. Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

November 20, 2024 12:34 PM Eastern Standard Time

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Top Black Friday Travel Deals: Start Planning Your Next Vacation with Norwegian Cruise Line

YourUpdateTV

With Black Friday deals already kicking off, now is the best time to get a jump start on your vacation planning for 2025. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) just launched its Black Friday promotion, offering travelers 50% off all cruises plus NCL’s new ‘More At SeaTM’ package, which includes unlimited open bar, specialty dining, and Wi-Fi powered by Starlink’s high-speed internet access, so time spent on the ship is just as exciting as exploring bucket-list destinations. Recently, Travel Expert and Editor-in-Chief of Cruise Critic, Colleen McDaniel, teamed up with Norwegian Cruise Line and D S Simon Media on a nationwide satellite media tour to discuss Black Friday travel deals, top destinations for 2025 and why you should consider a cruise for your next vacation. A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://youtu.be/MT8wcwu8HHg Cruising continues to provide the best value for your vacation dollar, offering accommodations, meals, and entertainment all included in one package. With the ability wake up in a new destination nearly every day, along with the convenience of only needing to unpack once, NCL offers guests the opportunity to see more, do more, and enjoy more while sailing to 450 destinations around the globe. The onboard experience, which includes exclusive industry-leading attractions like the only racetracks at sea, is enhanced by NCL’s new ‘More At SeaTM’ package, which provides over $2,000* of even more added value with newly enhanced offerings including a new beverage package that features 45% more beverage brands across all categories, with over 100 specialty cocktails to choose from; the ability to dine in more specialty restaurants; faster Wi-Fi powered by Starlink with more minutes available to all guests in the stateroom; shore excursion credits and free airfare for the second guest along with third and fourth guests sail free on select sailings. From Europe’s iconic cities to Alaska’s awe-inspiring landscapes, NCL has endless options for guests to experience more of what they love on their vacation. In 2025, NCL will have 11 ships sailing itineraries in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe and Greek Isles, offering an average of 10 hours in each port, and providing guests with a more immersive European vacation. Next summer, NCL’s Alaska season will also feature a variety of ships and itineraries, delivering guests more choices of embarkation ports, accommodation categories and onboard activities for everyone. With NCL’s newest ship, Norwegian Aqua, debuting in 2025, travelers can experience groundbreaking attractions like the world’s first hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide. Plus, with 17 restaurants, 18 bars and lounges, luxurious spa offerings and immersive entertainment, there is something for everyone. For those looking for a last-minute holiday escape, NCL also offers fantastic deals on shorter voyages, including Caribbean cruises from New Orleans and shorter three- to five-day Bahamas sailings from Miami. These itineraries provide the perfect opportunity for travelers to warm up this winter with a quick tropical getaway. For more information or to book your next cruise, visit NCL.com. # # # * More At Sea package value amount varies per sailing. The $2,000 value is based on a 7-day cruise. About Colleen McDaniel Colleen McDaniel is Editor-in-Chief of Cruise Critic, the world’s largest online cruise resource. She considers cruising to be a true passion, having traveled the world by water – from Alaska, the Caribbean and Hawaii, to Europe’s rivers, Antarctica and Africa – on ships of all shapes and sizes. She’s regularly quoted as a cruise expert in media outlets across the country, including outlets like The Associated Press, Good Morning America, CNN, FOX Business, CNBC, The New York Times, Travel + Leisure and Skift. Cruise Critic is the world’s largest cruise reviews and information site, offering a comprehensive resource for cruise travelers -- from first-time cruisers to avid cruise enthusiasts. The site features more than 50M+ opinions, reviews & photos and hosts the world's largest online cruise community. Cruise Critic is a subsidiary of Tripadvisor, Inc. About Norwegian Cruise Line As the innovator in global cruise travel, Norwegian Cruise Line has been breaking the boundaries of traditional cruising for 57 years. Most notably, the cruise line revolutionized the industry by offering guests the opportunity to design their ideal vacation on their preferred schedule with no assigned dining and entertainment times and no formal dress codes. Today, the company offers guests to ‘Experience More at Sea’ by providing them with more to see, more to do and more to enjoy on their vacation. Its fleet of 19 contemporary ships sail to 400 of the world's most desirable destinations, including Great Stirrup Cay, the company's private island in the Bahamas and its resort destination Harvest Caye in Belize. Norwegian Cruise Line not only provides superior guest service from land to sea, but also offers a wide variety of award-winning entertainment and dining options as well as a range of accommodations across the fleet, including solo-traveler staterooms, club balcony suites and The Haven by Norwegian®, the company's ship-within-a-ship concept. For additional information or to book a cruise, contact a travel professional, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visit www.ncl.com. For the latest news and exclusive content, visit the NCL Newsroom and follow Norwegian Cruise Line on Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok and YouTube @NorwegianCruiseLine; and Twitter @CruiseNorwegian. Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

November 20, 2024 10:14 AM Eastern Standard Time

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New AI-Powered Mobile App Delivers Early Prediction of Heart Attack or Stroke

Before Health Intelligence Ltd.

Before Health Intelligence, Ltd. today emerged from stealth and announced a new mHealth app called Antshrike ™ that uses AI to transform wearable device data into highly precise and specific predictive cardiovascular health warnings. As an iOS app, Antshrike uses proprietary AI algorithms to identify early warning signs of critical cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks or strokes, with high predictive accuracy for individuals at risk. The app processes biometric time-series data collected by commercially available Apple smart phones and smart watches, calculates individual risk of critical events in real time and predicts when and how changes in a patient’s health states may occur. By notifying patients of imminent danger in advance, Antshrike enables timely intervention by healthcare providers, paving the way for personalized medical intervention and treatment and improved medical outcomes. “In South America, the Antshrike bird warns primates of upcoming dangers,” said Before Health Intelligence CEO & co-founder Ekaterina Mitricheva, MD, PhD. “We developed our new digital health app by the same name to warn those at risk of major ischemic cardiovascular events before they take place. With cardiovascular disease as the number one cause of death worldwide, there is an urgent need to predict and prevent heart attacks and strokes.” The Antshrike mHealth app: Passively monitors health status without interrupting daily routines, social interactions and work habits Predicts the danger and timing of cardiovascular events with more than 85% accuracy in a personalized manner Uses proven science based on decades of research, more than 130 billion data points analyzed by Before Health Intelligence’s scientists, as well as open source CDC data from tens of thousands of individuals Assures HIPAA-compliant patient privacy by preprocessing individual patient data (not patient records) on a patient’s phone with anonymized preprocessed values that can never be traced back to any specific person Requires no manual input of data or reliance on expensive hospital equipment and procedures Assists healthcare providers in saving more lives since timely predictive interventions are known to reduce the probability of lasting effects or fatality Antshrike uses two layers of AI, static and dynamic, to calculate an individual’s risk of critical events in real-time. The static layer processes data entered by an individual to determine an initial risk score, and the machine learning algorithm is trained on over 500,000 CDC datapoints of approximately 23,000 individuals. The dynamic layer collects and analyzes biometric time-series from smart watches in real-time, uses the proprietary AI algorithm to identify early warning signs of critical state transitions, and then delivers a personalized, time-sensitive risk score for an upcoming major ischemic cardiovascular event. The freemium app is expected to be available in the U.S. in 2025. To become a partner or learn more about the product, visit https://www.before-intelligence.com/contact. About Before Health Intelligence Ltd. Before Health Intelligence, a medical device manufacturer developing software-as-a-medical device (SaMD), offers mobile applications that identify the early warning signs of critical events in complex diseases. The apps analyze each individual’s health data, recorded by leading smart watch brands in combination with proprietary AI algorithms and data sets, as well as open source data from the Center for Disease Control (CDC). This continuous monitoring alerts individuals of early warning signs of critical cardiovascular events (e.g., heart attacks or strokes) or neuropsychiatric events (e.g., alcohol addiction relapse), enabling timely medical intervention and improved survival rates. Founded in 2022, the Before Health Intelligence team is comprised of highly skilled medical professionals, mathematicians, physicists and programmers with research experience at institutions such as Princeton University, Max Planck Society and MIT. Learn more at https://www.before-intelligence.com and follow the company on LinkedIn. Contact Details Rainier Communications Michelle Allard McMahon or Jenna Desimone beforehealth@rainierco.com Company Website https://www.before-intelligence.com/

November 19, 2024 07:45 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Mothers' Milk Bank California Launches Online Milk Drive for National Prematurity Awareness Month

The Mothers' Milk Bank

What: In honor of Prematurity Awareness Month this November, Mothers' Milk Bank California is launching an Online Milk Drive to raise awareness about the vital role donor breast milk plays in saving the lives of premature and medically fragile infants. With over 380,000 babies born prematurely in the U.S. each year, the need for donated human milk is greater than ever. This drive aims to increase the number of breast milk donors while educating the public about the importance of donor milk for infants in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs). When: November 1 – November 30, 2024 Where: Online or in-person at any of our 10 collection centers across California and Nevada. Who: Mothers' Milk Bank California invites breastfeeding mothers, community members, and supporters across the country to join this critical initiative. The Online Milk Drive is open to anyone who wants to help make a difference, whether by d onating milk online, dropping off milk at our collection centers, or spreading the word. Why: Donor breast milk provides life-saving nutrients and immune support to premature and sick infants who are unable to receive their mother’s milk. It is a crucial alternative when a mother’s own milk is unavailable, reducing the risk of serious infections like necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and improving health outcomes for the most vulnerable babies. The goal of this drive is to ensure that no baby goes without the nourishment they need to survive and thrive. How to Participate: Breastfeeding mothers can sign up to become milk donors through our easy online application or drop off their milk at any of our 10 collection centers. Community members can support the campaign by sharing it on social media and encouraging prospective milk donors to join the online drive. Make a Monetary Donation: You can support us financially by donating online. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps cover the costs of processing and distributing donor milk to those in need Founded 50 years ago, Mothers' Milk Bank California is a leading nonprofit dedicated to providing screened, donated human milk to babies in need. As a founding member of the Human Milk Banking Association of North America (HMBANA), it helped set standards for nonprofit milk banks across North America. The organization collects, pasteurizes, and distributes safe human milk to hospitals and families, ensuring essential nutrition for infants. Committed to improving lives, Mothersâ Milk Bank California supports families and advances neonatal care. Contact Details Jennifer Benito-Kowalski +1 408-831-7276 jbenito@mothersmilk.org Company Website https://camilkbank.org/

November 01, 2024 08:02 AM Pacific Daylight Time

ETFs: A Streamlined Approach to Sector-Specific Investment

Select Sector SPDR

In the dynamic world of financial markets, the Select Sector SPDR ETFs offer a practical method for investors seeking sector-specific investments. By segmenting the S&P 500 into defined sectors, these ETFs present both individual and institutional investors with an opportunity to build more targeted and strategic investment portfolios. Select Sector SPDR ETFs are designed to cater to various segments of the economy, allowing investors to concentrate their investments based on specific economic sectors, aligned with their investment goals, risk tolerance, and market perspectives. Overview of the available Select Sector SPDR ETFs Communication Services Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLC) is centered around telecommunications and media companies. Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLY) is comprised of companies involved in non-essential goods and services focused on luxury items, automobiles, and hotels. Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLP) is primarily essential consumer goods and services like beverages, clothing, and personal products. Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLE) is focused on the energy sector which includes oil and natural gas industries. Financials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLF) includes banking, capital markets, and insurance industries. Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLV) is dedicated to pharmaceuticals, healthcare equipment, and biotechnology. Industrials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLI) encompasses manufacturing, construction, and aerospace companies. Materials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLB) focuses on mining, construction materials, and packaging sectors. Real Estate Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLRE) looks into commercial real estate services and Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), excluding Mortgage REITs. Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK) is focused on the information technology, semiconductor, and electronics industries. Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLU) centers around electricity and natural gas companies. The Select Sector SPDR ETFs provide an uncomplicated and transparent way to navigate sector-specific investments, allowing investors to adjust their strategies in response to ever-changing market dynamics. This sector-focused approach can provide detailed analysis and strategic portfolio management, offering a valuable tool for investors to fine-tune their investment allocations. As the ETF landscape continues to evolve, the Select Sector SPDR provides a mechanism for investors aiming to fine tune their investment strategies through focused sector allocations. This structured investment avenue supports the development of robust and adaptive portfolios, tailored to meet diverse investor needs and market conditions. DISCLAIMER: This is a work of research and should not be taken as investment or financial advice. Therefore, Select Sector SPDRs or the publisher is not liable for any decision made based on the publication. About the Company: Select Sector SPDR ETFs offer flexibility and customization opportunities. Many investors have similar outlooks, but no two are exactly alike. Select Sector SPDR ETFs let investors select the sectors that best meet their investment goals. DISCLOSURES The S&P 500 Index is an unmanaged index of 500 common stocks that is generally considered representative of the U.S. stock market. The index is heavily weighted toward stocks with large market capitalizations and represents approximately two-thirds of the total market value of all domestic common stocks. The S&P 500 Index figures do not reflect any fees, expenses or taxes. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, fees and expenses before investing. One may not invest directly in an index. Transparent ETFs provide daily disclosure of portfolio holdings and weightings All ETFs are subject to risk, including loss of principal. Sector ETF products are also subject to sector risk and nondiversification risk, which generally will result in greater price fluctuations than the overall market. Diversification does not eliminate risk. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. To obtain a prospectus, which contains this and other information, call 1-866-SECTOR-ETF (732-8673) or visit www.sectorspdrs.com. Read the prospectus carefully before investing. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is distributor for the Select Sector SPDR Trust. Media Contact: Company: Select Sector SPDRs Contact: Dan Dolan* Address: 1290 Broadway, Suite 1000, Denver, CO 80203 Country: United States Email: dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Website: https://www.sectorspdrs.com/ *Dan Dolan is a Registered Representative of ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is the distributor for the Select Sector SPDR Trust. SEL007907 EXP 12/31/24 Contact Details Dan Dolan +1 203-935-8103 dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Company Website https://www.sectorspdrs.com/

November 01, 2024 05:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

San Diego Foundation Launches National Rainbow College Fund in California

National Rainbow College Fund

Today, San Diego Foundation (SDF) launched the National Rainbow College Fund (NRCF) in California, the first scholarship designed to exclusively support LGBTQ+ students pursuing their ambitions for higher education regardless of the public nature of their sexual and gender identity. The National Rainbow College Fund is powered by San Diego Foundation, one of the largest community foundations in the U.S. and the largest provider of scholarships of any community foundation in California. The mission of the National Rainbow College Fund is to lessen the financial burden for young people who identify as LGBTQ+ or who are grappling with the secrecy of remaining in the closet. The groundbreaking fund addresses the unique challenges LGBTQ+ students face such as social acceptance, mental health issues and family rejection that can hinder their ability to afford college that in turn impacts long-term economic earning power. “Speaking from personal experience, I know that many young people struggle with the fear of being outed or coming out. It can be overwhelming. Like many young people, I did everything possible to hide who I was because I feared being kicked out of my home and my family, as well as being cut off financially and emotionally,” said Mark Stuart, President and CEO of San Diego Foundation. “Every LGBTQ+ person should have the means to realize their educational dreams, regardless of the public nature of their sexual and gender identity.” The $2,500 award per selected student may be used for tuition, books, fees, room and board and other educational expenses. It does not need to be repaid. The application period is from January 15, 2025 – March 5, 2025. San Diego Foundation will make students’ privacy the highest priority during the application process. All information submitted to the application portal will be confidential. Setting the precedent in California, San Diego Foundation’s vision is for the fund to grow to be a national source of financial aid for LGBTQ+ students to attend the technical school, college or university of their choosing. To apply, a student who identifies as LGBTQ+ whether publicly or privately must be a high school senior; an incoming or current college or university student; or an adult re-entry student. Applicants need to have lived in California for at least one year and must demonstrate financial need by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the California DREAM Act Application or the Federal Student Aid Estimator Tool. Students must plan to enroll in at least 6 units in an accredited public or nonprofit community college; four-year university or trade/vocational school anywhere within the United States. For more details about eligibility and selection criteria, please visit rainbowcollegefund.org/scholarship-program/. The need for this scholarship is well-documented. According to a survey conducted by Student Loan Hero, LGBTQ+ students face significant barriers in paying for their education. Families may not financially support their children, leading LGBTQ+ students to turn to loans to finance their schooling. LGBTQ+ borrowers had a higher debt burden on average, with $16,000 more than their cisgender/heterosexual peers: 60% of LGBTQ+ student loan borrowers regret taking out student loans; 28% feel that they can’t manage their student loan payments and more than 53% reported earning less than $50,000 per year. For every $1,000 scholarship a student receives, they are 5% more likely to complete their education. Privacy remains a major concern. A 2022 study from the Williams Institute found that LGBTQ+ students are four times more likely than non-LGBTQ+ students to choose college in a state with a more welcoming climate and to live away from family; 60% of white LGBTQ+ students are not out to staff/faculty and less than 40% of LGBTQ+ students of color are out to staff/faculty. Community colleges have even higher rates of keeping sexual identity private: more than 70% white LGBTQ+ students and 65% LGBTQ+ students of color are not out. LGBTQ+ rights have been under increased attack in general, but also transgender and gender diverse communities in particular. This political landscape is the backdrop by which teenagers are navigating their identities while emerging into adulthood. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention published a study documenting that approximately 3.3% of high school students identify as transgender and another 2.2% are questioning their gender identity. Transgender and gender-questioning teenagers reported alarmingly higher rates of bullying at school, persistent sadness and suicidal thoughts and behavior. About one in four transgender students said they had attempted suicide in the past year, compared with 11% of cisgender girls and 5% of cisgender boys. * * * About National Rainbow College Fund National Rainbow College Fund (NRCF) is the first scholarship designed to exclusively support LGBTQ+ students pursuing their ambitions for higher education regardless of the public nature of the student’s sexual and gender identity. The groundbreaking fund addresses the unique challenges LGBTQ+ students face such as social acceptance, mental health issues and family rejection that can hinder their ability to afford college that in turn impacts long-term economic earning power. Setting the precedent in California, San Diego Foundation’s vision is for the fund to grow to be a national source of financial aid for LGBTQ+ students to attend the technical school, college or university of their choosing. Learn more at RainbowCollegeFund.org. Follow NRCF on social media: Instagram: @RainbowCollegeFund, Facebook: Rainbow College Fund, X (formerly Twitter): @RainbowColFund, LinkedIn: Rainbow-College-Fund About San Diego Foundation For nearly 50 years, San Diego Foundation has been inspiring enduring philanthropy and enabling community solutions to improve the quality of life in our region. Our strategic priorities include advancing racial and social justice, fostering equity of opportunity, building resilient communities, and delivering world-class philanthropy to realize our vision of just, equitable and resilient communities. Since our founding in 1975, SDF and our donors have granted $2 billion to support nonprofit organizations strengthening our community. Join us in commemorating 50 years of impact – and looking toward the next 50. Learn more at SDFoundation.org. Contact Details Landis Communications Inc. Cheryl Reiss +1 415-640-5431 NRCF@landispr.com Company Website https://rainbowcollegefund.org/

October 31, 2024 09:00 AM Pacific Daylight Time

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Luxy Hair Launches in the U.S. Amazon Premium Beauty Store

Luxy Hair

Luxy Hair, the #1 leading clip-in hair extensions brand, is proud to announce its debut in the U.S. Amazon Premium Beauty Store. Luxy Hair, part of the Beauty Industry Group portfolio, is expanding its reach by providing easy access to its high-quality, ethically sourced products through one of the world’s largest e-commerce platforms. “We are thrilled to collaborate with Amazon to continue our mission of empowering women to feel confident in their own hair,” said Amy Sveda, President of Luxy Hair. “We are excited to bring our ethically sourced, premium-quality hair solutions to a larger audience, helping more women regain confidence and embrace their hair identity.” Amazon customers can now explore and shop Luxy Hair’s extensive shade range, including hair swatches for easy color-matching. Luxy Hair’s storefront will feature best-selling items including the Classic Clip-In Extensions, Seamless Clip-In Extensions, and Halo® Extensions; customer-loved accessories such as Signature Hair Curler, and TikTok favorite Luxy Hair x Acquired Style Collection; and the newer and fastest growing solutions-based products including Scalp Hair Fill-Ins and Thinning Hair Fill-Ins, directly in Amazon’s U.S. Premium Beauty Store. Since its inception in 2010, Luxy Hair has gained recognition for delivering natural-looking, premium quality, do-it-yourself hair extensions made from 100% ethically sourced Remy human hair. The brand is renowned for its dedication to exceptional customer service and its award-winning shade range that meets various hair needs—from adding instant volume and length to addressing hair thinning and loss. Luxy Hair sets itself apart through its exceptional craftsmanship, unwavering commitment to transparency, and dedication to sustainable practices. By fostering open dialogue about hair loss and challenging the stigma surrounding hair extensions, Luxy Hair creates an inclusive space where women feel empowered, supported, and confident throughout their unique hair journeys. For more information, please visit www.luxyhair.com or @luxyhair on social media. Explore the full range of products at www.amazon.com/luxyhair. About Luxy Hair: The #1 rated hair extensions brand in the world, Luxy Hair is on a mission to take the guesswork out of natural-looking beautiful hair. Made from 100% ethically sourced Remy human hair, Luxy Hair creates premium quality hair extensions for all of life’s moments. Having amassed over 250K customers in more than 165 countries, with a large loyal following, Luxy Hair is renowned for its exceptional customer service and engagement. Luxy Hair is the do-it-yourself solution for anyone, any day, anywhere. About Beauty Industry Group: BIG, established in 2004, is the global market leader for professionally installed hair extensions and related beauty products. BIG's professional products are sold in more than 1,300 stores throughout North America and its collective brands service more than 30,000 salons across 165 countries. BIG has offices in four countries and is headquartered in Salt Lake City, UT. Contact Details Six One Agency Camryn Carlson camryn@six-one.com Luxy Hair Gillian Fetters gillianf@luxyhair.com

October 30, 2024 08:03 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Greg Olsen's Youth Inc. Expands with New Podcast Season and Upcoming Commerce Platform

Youth Inc.

Youth Inc., the first digital media network dedicated exclusively to youth sports content and commerce, today announced that Season Two of its popular Youth Inc. Podcast will launch on Wednesday, Oct. 30. Following the company’s 2024 $4.5 million seed funding round, led by Will Ventures, Youth Inc. is developing a new centralized hub blending news, original content, and retail for the youth sports market. Launched in 2022, Season One of the Youth Inc. Podcast featured conversations with iconic athletes like Jerry Rice, Russell Wilson, Jennie Finch, and Dale Earnhardt Jr. After a breakout debut season with more than 400,000 downloads, millions of impressions, and a nearly perfect viewership rating, Youth Inc. Is expanding its vision as it prepares to launch Season Two. Co-founded by Emmy Award-winning NFL analyst and Pro Bowl tight end Greg Olsen, former Fanatics executive Ryan Baise and Audacy, Inc.’s Tim Murphy, the podcast will feature acclaimed sports psychologist Dr. Michael Gervais as co-host, offering crucial insights for navigating today’s complex youth sports landscape. “While there are more than 30 million young athletes in our country today, there has never been a platform designed to speak directly to families, coaches, and players about the challenges of today’s current state of play,” said Olsen. “Season one taught us invaluable lessons, and we're excited to bring even more insights and depth in Season Two. Partnering with Dr. Gervais, we’ll provide our audience with the tools and knowledge to succeed, all while making the journey engaging and enjoyable." Season Two of the podcast will address the critical challenges young athletes face today including fostering resilience, managing the pressures of competition, and leveraging mindset training for long-term success. The six-episode season is presented by two Founding Partners: Players Health, a sports technology company offering digital risk management services and insurance products to ensure a secure environment for athletes, and MaxU, a cutting-edge platform providing personalized, 24/7 support to help young athletes build skills that enhance their mental performance and overall development. As Youth Inc. enhances its content offerings, it is also set to launch a robust commerce platform in early 2025, designed to further support young athletes and their families. Led by former Fanatics head of new ventures, Ryan Baise, the platform will offer a range of products and services tailored specifically for youth sports families and coaches. "The youth sports landscape is ripe for transformation, and we believe our platform will revolutionize how families access vital information and resources," said Baise. "Our aim is to create a comprehensive marketplace where parents, athletes, and coaches can discover rigorously vetted content and products that reflect the investment they make in their young athletes' futures." To listen to Season One of the Youth Inc. podcast (available on major podcast platforms, YouTube, and social media in both video and audio formats), watch the Season Two trailer or for more information, please visit Youth Inc. Youth Inc. is the first digital media network dedicated exclusively to youth sports content and commerce. Co-founded by NFL alum and Fox Sports broadcaster Greg Olsen, former Fanatics executive, Ryan Baise, and former Audacy and New York Times Co. executive, Tim Murphy, Youth Inc. provides parents, coaches, and athletes with expert-driven guidance and resources to navigate the evolving youth sports landscape. For more information, visit www.youth.inc or follow along on YouTube, Instagram, X, and TikTok. Contact Details Youth Inc. Jackson Gaskins jgaskins@hotpaperlantern.com

October 28, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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