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Lawrina, an innovative legaltech platform, is revolutionizing access to legal resources with the recent launch of a wide range of new legal forms designed to meet diverse personal, real estate, and business needs. This major update, announced in early October, expands the platform’s already extensive library of templates, helping not only legal professionals but also individuals manage everyday legal challenges.

Users will have the ability to download free legal document forms and fill them out with their own information using the tool for PDF forms. This feature includes options to add graphics and images, as well as the ability to create electronic signatures, enhancing the customization and functionality of each document.

The signature feature integrated into the PDF tool is also available through Lawrina Sign, the platform’s dedicated e-signature solution. Users can sign both documents created on the platform and those uploaded from other sources. This powerful tool significantly accelerates the paperwork process, allowing users to complete their documents five times faster.

For individuals needing additional information related to these forms, Lawrina also offers a growing collection of systematically updated guides and articles. Additionally, the platform provides a comprehensive lawyer directory, enabling access to expert assistance when necessary.

“At Lawrina, our mission is to bridge the gap between legal solutions and people who need them. By expanding access to legal information and legal aid, we are getting closer to our number one goal—improving human rights,” says Yehor Melnykov, CEO and co-founder of Lawrina.

According to recent data, 66% of Americans have faced at least one legal issue in the past few years. From property disputes to employment matters, legal issues are more common than many realize. However, access to affordable and easy-to-use legal solutions remains limited, creating a significant challenge for individuals seeking assistance. Lawrina addresses this gap by simplifying complex legal processes and making essential legal resources available to everyone.

The release of new legal forms and the enhanced features bring the Lawrina legaltech ecosystem one step closer to transforming how legal matters are handled, making the law more accessible and easier for everyone.

About Lawrina

Lawrina is an all-in-one legaltech platform offering a comprehensive suite of tools and resources to simplify the legal process. The platform includes legal templates, a directory of lawyers, an e-sign tool, and easy-to-understand legal guides. With a commitment to accessibility and ease of use, Lawrina bridges the gap between complex legal processes and the people who need them, all while adhering to U.S. laws and regulations. For more information and legal insights, visit https://lawrina.org.

Community leaders across South Carolina have come together to announce the launch of the Palmetto Public Deposits Coalition, a statewide initiative focused on empowering communities with the financial freedom they deserve. Currently, local governments do not have a choice on where to deposit taxpayer dollars. The Palmetto Public Deposits Coalition will challenge existing regulations that prevent public entities from depositing taxpayer funds into financial institutions like local credit unions, which can provide higher rates of return on deposits, lower interest rates on loans, and keep more taxpayer money in local communities.

“It is 2024, and public entities in South Carolina deserve to have a choice on where public money is deposited,” said Rick Osbon, former mayor of Aiken, South Carolina, and chairman of the Palmetto Public Deposits Coalition.

Public deposits are the funds government entities hold in financial institutions, including tax revenues, fees paid for government services, and grants from federal or state government programs. Public deposits monetarily support various public services, including infrastructure projects, social programs, operations, and emergency reserves.

Currently, South Carolina law permits only traditional banks to house these public funds.   

How government entities safeguard public deposits has become increasingly important as banks depart South Carolina. Local banks have been acquired by national banking institutions, consolidating much of the Palmetto State’s financial assets in out-of-state institutions and leaving communities underserved. A recent analysis of the share of all deposits found that as much as 78% of all deposits in South Carolina’ were held in out-of-state banks in 2023.

In response, local credit unions have stepped in to bridge the gap, offering crucial services such as small business loans, agricultural financing, and home mortgages, helping to support these areas' economic growth and stability. In a ten-year timeframe spanning from 2013 to 2024, there was a net decrease of 233 bank branches across the state compared to a net increase of 24 credit union branches.

Osbon added, "We believe South Carolina local governments and other public entities deserve the ability to choose the type of financial institution where taxpayer dollars are deposited. By creating competition and allowing credit unions to receive public deposits, South Carolina can improve access to essential financial services, drive better returns on taxpayer dollars, and benefit the residents of our state—especially in rural areas of South Carolina where credit unions are a lifeline."

Credit unions typically offer more personalized services, lower fees, and better interest rates on loans and savings. Through the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), credit unions offer up to $250,000 in deposit insurance per individual per financial institution, the same level traditional banks offer through the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). Public entities have an obligation to handle taxpayer funds wisely, and creating competition for public deposits would help drive better interest rates, improve services, and strengthen accountability.

Increased competition for public deposits also leads to better results for taxpayers. For every $1,000,000 of public funds deposited in a credit union, the return is $17,113 in total state and local government interest and tax revenue. In contrast, the same amount deposited in a bank yields just $8,750—a difference of $8,363, or a 96% greater net benefit from credit unions.

Recent surveys show that more than 65% of South Carolinians support allowing local governments to deposit funds into credit unions, particularly because these institutions provide the same deposit insurance protections as banks and the added benefit of higher interest rates on taxpayer deposits.

Local governments are at the forefront of their communities and are best suited to identify and address their residents' needs, especially when managing public funds. The Palmetto Public Deposits Coalition is committed to championing the right to free-market choices and ensuring public entities' financial resilience and prosperity across South Carolina.

About Palmetto Public Deposits Coalition

The Palmetto Public Deposits Coalition is an alliance of community leaders, credit unions, and local government associations advocating a more competitive environment for returns on taxpayer dollars to empower South Carolina communities. The coalition is committed to ensuring that public funds are managed responsibly, with the best interests of South Carolina’s communities in mind. To learn more, visit https://www.palmettopublicdeposits.com.

Tobin's Market, a neighborhood bar located in downtown Charleston, SC, is dedicated to showcasing live music and supporting the local Charleston music scene. This hidden gem is a must-visit spot for great music in a beautiful outdoor patio setting and is quickly becoming a go-to destination for music lovers and food enthusiasts alike.

Located in one of the Freedman's Cottages on Jackson Street in Charleston, Tobin's Market is playing a vital role in bringing the community together through their events and live music. By providing a platform for local artists and musicians to showcase their talents, Tobin's Market is fostering a vibrant music scene in the heart of Charleston.

According to owner Kenneth Skidmore, "We are thrilled to be a part of the Charleston music scene and to provide a space where both artists and audiences can come together to enjoy live music. Our goal is to continue supporting local talent and create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels at home.”

For booking inquiries and more information on Tobin's Market and its private event space, visit https://events.jacksonstreetcottages.com.

About Tobin's Market

Located at 197 Jackson Street in Charleston, Tobin’s Market is the first food purveyor at The Jackson Street Cottages, one of the 2020 Carolopolis Award winners. The venue offers a unique blend of live music, specials, and events, all while providing a welcoming space for the community to come together. Additionally, the space can be rented out for private events and gatherings, adding to its appeal as a versatile and vibrant location in Charleston.

For more information on Tobin's Market and our upcoming events, follow us on social media @tobins_market or visit us at https://tobins.jacksonstreetcottages.com.

CryptoProcessing by CoinsPaid, one of the recognized leaders in providing crypto payment solutions, today announced that it has achieved ISO/IEC 27001 certification. This certification demonstrates the company's commitment to maintaining a robust system for managing data security risks and adhering to the best practices and principles outlined in this international standard.

Svetlana Prussova, board member of CryptoProcessing by CoinsPaid, commented on the achievement:

"There are risks in every company's work, but real resilience is understanding and mitigating them. Regulators and authorities expect companies offering virtual currency services to be secure and transparent. That's why we initiated and successfully completed this certification. Achieving ISO 27001 certification allows us to further assures our customers and stakeholders that their information is handled securely."

The certification process was carried out by Bureau Veritas, a globally respected certification body, which conducted a comprehensive audit of CryptoProcessing by CoinsPaid's data security management system and confirmed its compliance with the ISO/IEC 27001 standard.

About CryptoProcessing by CoinsPaid

CryptoProcessing by CoinsPaid is one of the leaders in providing crypto payments for businesses. With more than 10 years of cryptocurrency expertise, CryptoProcessing offers payment solutions to hundreds of merchants worldwide, processing over €800 million in crypto monthly. To learn more, visit https://en.cryptoprocessing.com.

The Female Quotient (The FQ), a leader in advancing workplace equality, today released new research in collaboration with The Knot, a leading all-in-one wedding planning platform, and SmithGeiger Group, a global, consultative market research firm. The report, titled “The Maiden Name Debate,” suggests that more women may rewrite the rules on marital name changes in the future. While 77% of married women said “I do” to taking their partner’s last name, only 64% of unmarried women expect to do the same, indicating a potential shift in tradition.

While changing maiden names is still common, research shows the tradition is gradually losing ground, especially among those most likely to walk down the aisle next. Two key factors drive this change: women, on average, are marrying later, and many are starting to build their own personal brand identities earlier on social media such as Instagram and TikTok. These dynamics push many to reconsider how a name change could impact both their personal and professional identities. Older women and women with higher levels of education are more likely to keep their last names to protect their established reputations. Additionally, one-third (32%) of unmarried Gen Z women express a greater concern for preserving their social media brands, compared to just 3% of Millennials.

“Taking your partner’s name is rooted in patriarchal history, and it still influences how women are perceived personally and professionally,” said Shelley Zalis, founder and CEO of The Female Quotient. “In today’s tech-driven world, a name change impacts more than just tradition–it affects identity, data continuity, and how AI systems recognize and represent individuals. The power of a name should never limit someone’s potential.”

Among women who do plan to change their last names (take a partner’s name, hyphenate their name, or create a new surname), 27% do not plan to use their partner’s name professionally. The likelihood of wanting to preserve a professional name increases with age among unmarried women.

Changes in same-sex marriage laws are also shaking up tradition. Just under 2 in 10 LGBTQIA+ couples did or plan to hyphenate or create a new last name (18%). LGBTQIA+ are less inclined to adhere to traditional practices, including 53% who are married and took their partner’s last name upon marriage, compared to 77% of married women who did the same.

“At The Knot, we see firsthand that couples, especially Gen Z and LGBTQIA+, are redefining wedding norms, and this includes how they’re approaching their married names,” said Kiara Kempski, Vice President, Consumer Marketing at The Knot. “In a time when tradition is no longer the default, it’s exciting to see Gen Z women embracing a dual identity—changing their name personally while keeping their maiden name professionally to preserve their personal brand. Additionally, LGBTQIA+ couples have long been at the forefront of redefining societal norms, driven by their desire to shape identities and relationships beyond the confines of traditions that historically excluded them. It is inspiring to see how heterosexual couples are now embracing the innovative trends that LGBTQIA+ couples have pioneered for years.”

What He Said

Among women who are married, have been married, or plan to get married, 70% will take their partner’s last name. Only 5% of men say the same. However, 53% of men believe it’s the woman’s decision whether she changes her last name when getting married, while only 36% believe it should be a joint decision. Gen Z (aged 18–24) men are the least open to women making the decision about their last names (14%), while Gen X (aged 45–54) men are the most open to it (58%). At the same time, unmarried Gen Z men are more likely to want to take their partner’s name, with 15% saying they would, compared to 5% of Millennials (aged 25–44) and 6% of Gen X men.

“It’s encouraging to see that women and men increasingly believe it’s a woman’s right to choose her name—this is real progress,” said Caroline Dettman, Chief Marketing Officer at The Female Quotient. “I got married 26 years ago before we had digital footprints. Today, when a woman changes her surname, AI systems can struggle to link women’s past achievements with her new name—and that is consequential. I would tell my younger self to think carefully about what works best for both personal and professional goals before making this impactful decision.”

To learn more about the research findings, view “The Maiden Name Debate: The Power of a Name In Business and Beyond” report here.

About The Female Quotient

The Female Quotient (The FQ) is an experiences, media, and transformation company advancing equality in the workplace. With the largest global community of women in business, The FQ creates visibility and connections for women and conscious leaders at a global scale across every industry. The FQ’s signature Equality Lounge® has changed the business agenda at tentpole industry conferences including CES, Davos, Cannes Lions, and more. Together with our partners, our mission is to change the equation and close the gender gap. For more on how to partner with The FQ and to join our community, please visit www.thefemalequotient.com and follow @femalequotient on Instagram and LinkedIn.

About The Knot

The Knot is a leading all-in-one wedding planning resource and Vendor Marketplace that connects couples with more than 200,000 local wedding professionals and offers a comprehensive suite of planning tools that includes personalized wedding websites, invitations and registry services that make planning easier to help couples enjoy the experience. The most trusted authority on wedding planning, The Knot reaches a majority of engaged couples in the U.S. through TheKnot.com; a leading wedding planning app with the most five-star reviews on iOS and Android, The Knot Wedding Planner; The Knot national wedding magazine; and The Knot book series. Since its inception, The Knot has inspired approximately 25 million couples to plan a wedding that’s authentic to them. Visit The Knot online at TheKnot.com and follow on social media: @TheKnot on TikTok, Instagram, Pinterest and Threads and Facebook.com/TheKnot.

About SmithGeiger Group

SmithGeiger Group, founded in 2001, is a consultative insights and strategy firm, focused on enabling and supporting the success of our clients in the U.S. and globally, across the media, technology, and consumer sectors. In a world overwhelmed with data, trustworthy guidance is critical. We specialize in partnering with our clients to transform data into something more: relevant, actionable, results-oriented insights. Our team of passionate experts specializes in data-driven, innovative solutions, providing our clients with a deeper understanding of their businesses and the most efficient pathways to growth, viewer and customer loyalty, and long-term success. The group also includes divisions such as Elevate Marketing Research, Vivid Zero Creative Agency, and AccelerateSG. Know what’s possible.

For more information, visit smithgeigergroup.com.

The Real Feel, the first real-time human sentiment and insights platform for people and businesses, has officially launched in the U.S.

Revolutionizing the way organizations understand human sentiment, The Real Feel polls Americans each week about how they are feeling. Through its platform, visual heatmap, and AI capabilities, it can now break down sentiment across gender, age group, race, political party, and other demographic attributes. The platform has already collected sentiment data from its first two weeks, revealing intriguing trends, including the happiest demographic, the saddest demographic, happiest weekday, and top thoughts by Americans. All data is packaged into weekly reports and files available for purchase.

The Real Feel's ability to collect and analyze real-time sentiment data across various demographic groups provides unique and valuable insights into the emotions and opinions of Americans. This data will be crucial for organizations' understanding of macro trends, as well as consumer behaviors and preferences across different segments of the population, especially as the 2024 Presidential Election approaches.

The company, founded by Lisa Hu, a three-time entrepreneur, is leveraging her experience in technology and media to bring this first-to-market solution to fruition. "We are thrilled to launch The Real Feel at such an important moment. Organizations of all types need better access to real-time sentiment data to make informed decisions—whether it's launching a product that customers will love, passing laws that truly reflect what people want, or decoding the behavior of specific demographics and understanding why. Our goal is to create a more nuanced understanding of how people are feeling and tie the data to decision-making across various industries."

The Real Feel will expand its reach and gather sentiment data tailored to different private and public sectors, as well as develop deeper trend reporting and future analysis tools to provide more valuable insights.

For more information, please visit The Real Feel at www.therealfeel.ai.

About The Real Feel

Founded in 2024, The Real Feel is the first real-time human sentiment and insights platform for people and businesses. By capturing and analyzing sentiment data in real time using polling and AI, we enable individuals to track their feelings and provide businesses with detailed, anonymous insights to inform better decisions. Our diverse customer base includes data and marketing intelligence companies, financial institutions, tech firms, brands, agencies, government institutions, and media organizations. For more information, visit www.herealfeel.ai.

Silver Spoon Agency is proud to announce that it has been honored as a winner with three awards in three categories in the 13th Web Excellence Awards. The company's entry, Advertising & Marketing, has been recognized for excellence in Art Direction, Brand Awareness & Branded Content, showcasing its commitment to innovation and superior performance in the digital space.

"We are thrilled to receive this prestigious award, which reflects our commitment to innovation and excellence," stated Ceasar Muñoz, CEO of Silver Spoon Agency. "This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, who consistently strive to push boundaries and set higher standards in the digital space. We’re here to take over!" added co-founder and president, George Karafotis.

The Web Excellence Awards, a pioneering platform that acknowledges and promotes excellence in web development and digital innovation, celebrated an impressive array of talent and innovation from around the globe, reinforcing its mission to recognize and celebrate extraordinary achievements by creative teams and individuals worldwide.

"Being recognized as a winner at the 13th Web Excellence Awards not only highlights our achievements but also motivates us to continue raising the bar for industry standards," concluded Dimitris Vanis, Creative Director of Silver Spoon Agency.

Winning the Web Excellence Award is a significant accolade for Silver Spoon Agency and its clients. This recognition underscores the company's outstanding contributions to the digital realm and its dedication to pushing the envelope in web development and digital innovation. The award also enhances the company's reputation in the industry, solidifying its position as a leader and trendsetter.

About Silver Spoon Agency

In the heart of adversity, the Silver Spoon Agency was born—a brainchild of Ceasar Munoz and George Karafotis. Born from a late-night epiphany and fueled by a blend of grit, marketing savvy, and a dash of rockstar charisma, our agency has transformed from a glimmer of possibility into a beacon of digital dominance.

Ceasar’s journey from NYPD officer and NYC DJ to marketing maven, and George’s leap from literal rockstar to marketing maestro, personify our creed: Transform, Transcend, Triumph. Together with our Team of Titans, we’ve flipped the script on digital marketing, taking businesses from the uncertainties of fluctuating client flow to the certainties of exponential growth.

For more information, visit https://silverspoonagency.com.

About the Web Excellence Awards

The Web Excellence Awards is a leading international competition celebrating the best in web development and digital innovation. Established to recognize and promote excellence across the digital industry, the Web Excellence Awards provide a platform for innovation and creativity to be acknowledged globally. To learn more, email info@we-awards.com or visit https://we-awards.com. 

Two startups were named the competition winners at Pitch HearstLab London, HearstLab’s pitch event for early stage, women-led startups. Out of hundreds of applications from across Europe, six companies were selected as finalists to present in-person at the Cine Lumiere on Wednesday, 16 October, 2024.

The finalists represented industry verticals ranging from a white-labeled sustainability platform to digital data wallet for home and personal finances. Each founder pitched to a live audience and a panel of expert judges, including Eve Burton, Hearst EVP and HearstLab Chairwoman; Katie Vanneck, Hearst UK CEO (Magazines); Maren Bannon, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of January Ventures; and David Fogel, Co-Founder of Alma Angels. The event was MC’ed by Marie-Claire Chappet, Acting Commissioning Editor of Harper's Bazaar.

The event included an inspiring fireside chat between special guests Lydia Slater, Editor-in-Chief of Harper's Bazaar and Hannah Bernard, OBE, Head of Business Banking at Barclays UK.

The event’s winners were as follows: Deployed, founded by Kayleigh Ciara Kuptz, an AI-assisted decision and document automation platform, and Finbridge Global, founded by Barbara Gottardi, a multi-sided marketplace allowing financial institutions and investors to quickly scan, assess, and compare fintech capabilities.

"I feel very privileged to be a part of the HearstLab team and portfolio. You can feel the energy of the team as their faces light up when speaking about the portfolio companies. I am looking forward to growing and making my company stronger as we continue to evolve,” said Kayleigh Ciara Kuptz, founder and CEO of Deployed.

Barbara Gottardi, founder and CEO of Finbridge Global, added, “It was an amazing experience. We’re so used to ‘thank you but no’. This investment means we need to keep going. I look to give hope to other women.”

In addition to a €100,000 investment from HearstLab, one finalist, Lowr, was awarded the first Harper’s Bazaar Award which includes exclusive print coverage and an invite to the next Bazaar at Work Summit.

Pitch HearstLab is the pitch competition with the largest check size for women-led startups in the world. The event series is aimed at finding and funding the best high-growth B2B(2C) women-led startups in the U.S. and select international markets. With prior competitions in New York, Madrid, Amsterdam, and multiple winners at each event, HearstLab has invested in 14 early-stage women-led startups through the pitch series alone. London is the eighth event in the series. It is the first time the event has been brought to London.

To date, HearstLab has invested in 70+ women-led startups, currently valued at over $2.4 billion collectively. Its mission is to help closing the funding gap in venture capital funding for women. Current data shows that women-led businesses still receive just 2% of all venture funding, despite the growing number of female entrepreneurs.

“We are continuously expanding our presence and intensifying our efforts across the U.S., Europe, and the U.K. Additionally, we are embracing the opportunities in dynamic regions such as the GCC and Japan, where remarkable women are at the helm of extraordinary companies,” said Eve Burton, HearstLab Chairwoman & Hearst EVP, in her opening remarks. “This is truly a global operation.” 

“We are so excited to bring this investment pitch event to the UK for the first time, creating a vital platform for British female founders to present their innovative ventures. In the UK, women-led businesses remain chronically underfunded despite their incredible potential to add £250 billion to the UK economy,” said Louise Harvey, HearstLab International’s UK-based Venture Associate. “This event is designed to change that, giving talented female entrepreneurs the opportunity to secure the backing they need. I have loved working closely with every one of these amazing female founders over the last three months in the run-up to Pitch HearstLab—all have such deep sector expertise, are so passionate about what they are building, and are all-round fantastic entrepreneurs.”

“Pitch HearstLab is not just a pitch contest, it is a live investment committee. We invest months in scouting, analysis, and due diligence and we have an exceptional jury made up of some of the best VC partners and strategic profiles within Hearst,” added Azahara Espejo, Director of HearstLab International. “You do not just become a winner, you receive an investment of €100,000 and three months of support from HearstLab at an international level.”

Pitch HearstLab will be hosting their next US competition in Atlanta on 12 November, 2024. Beyond pitch events, female founders can apply for HearstLab investment anytime (ranging from $500K to $1M+ checks) throughout the year.

For more information, visit the HearstLab website, follow HearstLab on LinkedIn, and subscribe to the newsletter.

About HearstLab

HearstLab provides cash investments and services to early-stage, women-led startups across sectors like fintech, data analytics, health, and enterprise technology. Its mission is to close the gap in venture capital funding for women by helping founders build sustainable, scalable businesses. To learn more about HearstLab, visit HearstLab.com and connect with us on LinkedIn.

About Deployed

Deployed is an AI-assisted decision and document automation platform that streamlines resourcing decisions and project agreements for global enterprises, saving millions in administrative costs while boosting project success rates and compliance. For more information, visit https://www.deployed.co.

About Finbridge Global

Finbridge Global is a multi-sided marketplace allowing Financial Institutions and Investors to quickly scan, assess and compare fintech capabilities. The automated RFI functionality saves hundreds of thousands of pounds for all parties involved. For more information, visit https://finbridgeglobal.com.

LatinNation Media, the Hispanic-owned multi-platform media company whose mission is to transform Latino representation in media, is heading into the elections with two new series that focus on educating and informing its audience on issues core to the community.

The network will premiere LatiNation Presents: A Conversation with Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerraon Tuesday, October 29 at 6 p.m. ET / 3 p.m. PT with a 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT encore on its LATV national broadcast channel, the LatiNation+ App, and the LatiNation FAST channel. In October, the network will also program weekly episodes of Stop the Dis(Information) featuring comedian/actor Al Madrigal on its social media channels.

“It is vital to have conversations about matters that affect our community daily: election information, civic engagement, and programs that benefit Latinos of all ages. We as a media company have a responsibility to educate our public on the issues so everyone feels comfortable not only with how they want to vote in this election, but how the outcome will affect their livelihood,” said Bruno Ulloa, owner, president, and COO of LatiNation Media. “We look forward to continuing these conversations with the elected officials and community leaders who have a hand in the direction of our United States.”

Title: LatiNation Presents: A Conversation with HHS Xavier Becerra 

Synopsis: Host Bruno Ulloa (owner, president, and COO of LatiNation Media) hosts an intimate, engaging conversation with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, Xavier Becerra. Discussing topics ranging from immigrant programs to DACA and health care to rising heat indexes, Ulloa and Secretary Becerra have an informative conversation about issues affecting the 18+ generation of Latinos and their families—the first in a limited series.

Runtime: 22 min (extended version is 30 min)

Credits: Hosted and produced by Bruno Ulloa

Guests: Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra

Title: Stop the Dis(Information)

Synopsis: Stop the Dis(Information) is helping to combat the disinformation being shared around politics, immigrants, human rights, and the national elections.

Runtime: 1–3 min, short-form digital series (LatiNation+ App and @LatiNationMedia on IG)

Credits: Hosted by actor/comedian Al Madrigal and executive produced by Al Madrigal, Jason Ross, Flavio Morales, Martin Albornoz for CALÓ News, Andres Palencia and Bruno Ulloa for LatiNation Media

About LatiNation Media

LatiNation Media is a Hispanic-owned multi-platform media company whose mission is to transform Latino representation in the modern media landscape by creating content that organically represents today’s Latino experience. We distribute English-language programming across every platform including linear TV, streaming, the web, mobile, and social. LatiNation Media’s brands include Latino Alternative Television (LATV) linear and LATV FAST Network, LatiNation Digital, LatiNation Studios, and LatiNation Creative. Grounded in over two decades of creating award-winning bilingual content, our flagship linear channel LATV is seen in 81% of U.S. Hispanic households and the top 47 U.S. DMAs. Our Digital Ad Network reaches over 68% of the U.S. population and has over 189 million monthly uniques. LatiNation content emphasizes young Latino culture, Latina empowerment, and LGBTQ+ and Afro-Latino pride. For more information, visit www.latination.com.

Kratom Consumer Advocacy Council (KCAC) has released a new position statement regarding the use of kratom among children. The statement highlights potential health risks, marketing concerns, and regulatory recommendations aimed at protecting children from exposure to kratom products.

Health Risks and Vulnerability in Children

Kratom use in children has historically been low, but the KCAC is concerned about the adverse health effects reported in pediatric cases. Additionally, children’s developing brains may be more susceptible to addiction, and regular use of kratom products could expose them to harmful levels of lead, further compounding the risk to their health. 

Concerns Over Marketing Targeting Children

The KCAC is particularly alarmed by the marketing of kratom products that may appeal to children intentionally or unintentionally. Some products are sold in forms resembling popular candies, such as gummies, lollipops, chocolate bars, and cookies. These products often feature bright colors, mascots, and flavors that could attract young children or be mistaken for regular candy.

The ease of access to these products and their resemblance to well-known candy items raise concerns about accidental ingestion by younger children. The KCAC’s position draws parallels to the rise in cannabis edible-related poison control calls among children, which increased significantly after edible cannabis products entered the market.

Protecting Young People from Kratom Exposure

Research indicates young people are particularly vulnerable to substance abuse disorders when they begin using substances at an early age. This is due to the underdevelopment of the prefrontal cortex, the brain region responsible for decision-making and impulse control. As a result, the KCAC is advocating for regulatory measures similar to those applied to tobacco and alcohol.

KCAC’s Key Recommendations

To prevent kratom exposure and potential harm to children, the KCAC recommends the following actions:

• Sales Restrictions: Kratom products should not be sold to anyone under 21 years of age, with a robust verification system in place to enforce compliance, like current regulations for alcohol and tobacco.
• Product Labeling: Easy-to-understand warning labels should be required on all kratom products, indicating they are not suitable for individuals under 21 and may be habit-forming.
• Marketing Guidelines: Kratom packaging and promotional materials should not use mascots, cartoon imagery, or candy-like shapes or formulations (such as gummies or lollipops).
• Product Packaging: Kratom products should not resemble widely recognized branded candy products, which could lead to confusion and accidental ingestion by children.
• Retailer Responsibility: Kratom should only be sold by direct transaction with a responsible adult, preventing self-service or vending machine sales. Products should be placed behind the counter or in secure display cases.

Next Steps and Public Engagement

To further protect children, the KCAC recommends a comprehensive assessment of products currently on the market that may appeal to minors. The KCAC will distribute its findings to retailers, public health officials, regulatory bodies, and the public to help reduce childhood exposure.

Public Comment Period

The KCAC invites public feedback on its position statement. The comment period is open from Monday, October 7, 2024, to Monday, November 4, 2024. To submit comments, please visit the following link: https://bit.ly/4dy9v2d

About Kratom Consumer Advisory Council (KCAC)

The Kratom Consumer Advisory Council (KCAC) is a diverse group that reviews evidence on kratom's risks and benefits to inform policy and educate the public. Their mission is to foster dialogue among stakeholders, prioritize consumer safety, and promote responsible use. The KCAC advocates for balanced regulations that protect consumers while ensuring access and is committed to transparency and open communication with the public. For more information, visit globalkratomcoalition.org/kcac.

Starting today, qualified homeowners in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Pasadena, Berkeley, Oakland, as well as additional surrounding cities, can apply for grants to strengthen their homes against earthquake damage with up to $13,000 in financial assistance. The Earthquake Soft-Story (ESS) program provides financial assistance to homeowners to complete a code-compliant seismic retrofit of their home. Homes that qualify for this program are owner-occupied single-family homes, built before 2000, with one story of living space over a garage. These structures are vulnerable to damage because they may not be able to withstand the lateral movement from earthquake shaking. Houses with this condition may be prone to partial or full collapse during an earthquake. Grants for homes with other earthquake vulnerabilities are periodically available.

A Hazard Mitigation Assistance grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), is administered by the California Residential Mitigation Program (CRMP). Funds are limited, so homeowners are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. CRMP will accept registered homeowners into the program, by random selection, on a quarterly basis.

CRMP was created by the California Earthquake Authority (CEA) and the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) in 2011 to help Californians strengthen their homes against earthquake damage through incentive programs. The first of these programs, Earthquake Brace + Bolt (EBB), has already awarded grants to more than 27,000 homeowners to complete a retrofit.

“The continued growth of the ESS program, alongside our EBB program, has enabled us to help even more Californians protect their homes from earthquake damage,” said Janiele Maffei, Chief Mitigation Officer for CEA. “Despite California’s ever-present earthquake risk, the state is home to many soft-story buildings that remain vulnerable. This program provides crucial support for retrofitting these structures, and we’re always looking for additional contractors to get trained and contribute to this important work.”

Beginning October 15, 2024, eligible homeowners can apply for retrofit funding at www.earthquakesoftstory.com, where they can also find detailed program information and program rules, select from a list of FEMA-trained, California licensed general contractors, and view the full list of eligible ZIP codes. These ESS grants will be available to qualifying homeowners in 209 ZIP codes. A full list of qualifying ZIP codes can be found here.

Licensed contractors interested in participating should go to the Contractors & Licensed Design Professionals section of the CRMP website where they can find all the resources they need to get started in the program. CRMP offers free FEMA training required for participation, free marketing materials, and free listings to general contractors with a valid California license (Type A or B).

About the California Residential Mitigation Program (CRMP)

CRMP was established in 2011 to help Californians strengthen their homes against damage from earthquakes. CRMP is a joint powers authority created by the California Earthquake Authority (CEA) and the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES). For more information, please visit https://www.californiaresidentialmitigationprogram.com.

About the Earthquake Soft-Story (ESS) Program

Established by the California Residential Mitigation Program (CRMP), ESS offers grants to eligible California homeowners to help defray their retrofit costs to reduce potential damage from earthquakes. A residential seismic retrofit makes a house more resistant to earthquake activity. For more information, please visit www.earthquakesoftstory.com.

Statusphere, a leading micro-influencer marketing platform that automates the entire influencer marketing lifecycle, is today launching new features built to transform how brands discover and collaborate with TikTok Shop affiliates.

TikTok Shop Collabs add-on, Statusphere’s proprietary one-click solution, enables brands to filter the platform’s community to target creators approved for TikTok Shop collabs and requires a TikTok Shop product link within their posts, guaranteeing that every collaboration results in a shoppable social post.

Combining Statusphere’s TikTok Shop Collabs with Instant TikTok Spark Ad Codes further optimizes brands’ influencer marketing efforts, making it easier than ever to seamlessly create shoppable ads on TikTok.

Statusphere’s TikTok Spark Ad Codes enable users to purchase Spark Ad codes from creators more quickly and easily, enabling brands to:

• Save time: Move organic posts to ads in two clicks, without the need to negotiate with creators
• Centralize content: Identify new ads to run in one place, and build a library of Spark-ready content
• Maximize strategy: Optimize the campaign and reward creators all from one platform

Combined, TikTok Shop Collabs and Spark Ad Codes offer a seamless way to maximize return on investment within the rapidly expanding e-commerce ecosystem on TikTok where 70% of users discover new brands and products (Source: TikTok Marketing Science Global Retail Path to Purchase conducted by Material August 2021).

“Identifying a creator after a lengthy search only to chase down a collaboration that never materializes into a post is an exhausting process for brands. Without any assurance or guarantee that content will be posted, brands are increasingly turning to Statusphere to build scalable solutions to streamline TikTok collaborations. We bring order to influencer collaborations, and these product features are a significant step forward in optimizing TikTok campaigns,” said Kristen Wiley, founder and CEO of Statusphere.

Statusphere’s newest features offer a robust and scalable solution to ensure every campaign yields measurable results so brands can focus on outcomes, not logistics. Key product benefits include:

• Automated creator matching: Statusphere’s advanced targeting technology eliminates the need for brands to search for creators. Brands set specific targeting parameters from Statusphere’s 250+ first-party creator data points and are automatically matched with creators who meet precise criteria like exercise habits, personal style, and TikTok Shop status.
• Deal minimums: Unlike TikTok’s native tools, Statusphere guarantees that every campaign yields a minimum number of posts, reducing the risk of abandoned partnership deals.
• Guaranteed TikTok Shop links: Creators who opt into TikTok Shop Collabs are required to include a TikTok Shop product link in their content.
• Seamless content approval: Statusphere’s platform handles creative briefs and content reviews, ensuring each post aligns with the brand guidelines without email negotiation and communication.
• Product gifting and fulfillment: Brands leverage Statusphere’s warehouse and fulfillment tech to eliminate 100% of logistics tasks and seamlessly deliver products to creators as part of their TikTok Shop collaborations.

About Statusphere

Statusphere is a platform that helps brands scale micro-influencer marketing in a fraction of the time. By leveraging first-party data and automation, we simplify the creator collaboration process and guarantee content that aligns with brand goals, ultimately boosting ROI. For more information about Statusphere’s TikTok Shop features, please visit https://joinstatus.com.

Break Free Foundation is proud to announce the overwhelming success of its seventh Recovery on the Runway designer showcase, which took place last Sunday, October 6 in New York City. The evening was a powerful celebration of resilience, beauty, and the human spirit, with inspiring models and designers coming together to support breast cancer awareness and recovery from substance use.

The event, held at DCTV in Lower Manhattan, featured breathtaking designs from a lineup of exceptional designers, including Project Runway’s Nancy Volpe Beringer, Bold Swim, Half-Flat, Chablis Designs featuring Just Us Teenz, AnaOno, Andie Swim, and Thistle and Spire. Each collection highlighted inclusivity, sustainability, and body diversity, underscoring the evening's theme of empowerment and recovery.

Volpe Beringer presented pieces shown during her season of Project Runway to the public for the first time. Her experience as a designer has strengthened her determination to promote more diversity, sustainability, and inclusivity in the fashion industry. An array of challenges inspired Volpe Beringer to create The Vault by Volpe Beringer. It is the world's first and only fully accessible designer luxury platform which offers adaptable options and complimentary consultations for the disabled community.

The evening’s runway show was elevated by models who had undergone single or double mastectomies, many of whom were members of Flat Out Love, a nonprofit organization that empowers individuals post-breast amputation. Together with the Break Free Foundation, the event championed the importance of recovery, whether from substance use, mental health, or breast cancer.

The event’s host, Claire Comai, a person in recovery for five-years and prominent recovery advocate, and DJ Price I$ Right kept the atmosphere vibrant and uplifting throughout the night, making the showcase not only a fashion event but also a celebration of triumph over adversity.

A Partnership for Change

This edition of Recovery on the Runway was made possible through key partnerships with Pathfinder, who held up a pop-up non-alcoholic bar run by Michael Toscano, The Sober Curator, Just Us Teenz, and Flat Out Love. The collaboration between these organizations reinforced the event's message of recovery, self-acceptance, and community support:

• The Sober Curator provided its expertise in zero-proof living and recovery resources, promoting the lifestyle of living alcohol-free. 
• Just Us Teenz brought their talented young models to the runway, showcasing the potential of youth and creativity in the fashion world.
• Flat Out Love empowered models who have embraced living flat after breast cancer surgery, embodying beauty, confidence, and strength.

Proceeds from the evening were split between the Break Free Foundation and Flat Out Love, helping to fund scholarships for individuals seeking treatment for substance use disorders and empowering breast cancer survivors to foster mental health and body acceptance.

Next Stop: New York Fashion Week

As a testament to the ongoing commitment to this cause, Break Free Foundation is thrilled to announce its next Recovery on the Runway showcase, to be held during New York Fashion Week on Saturday, February 15, 2025. The event promises to bring another stunning display of fashion, recovery, and advocacy, continuing to shine a light on those who have found hope and healing through their journeys.

“Last Sunday’s show was about more than just fashion—it was about the incredible resilience of our models and the power of recovery,” said Alexandra Nyman, founder of the Break Free Foundation. “We are excited to carry this momentum forward into New York Fashion Week, where we will continue to share stories of recovery, break down stigmas, and celebrate the beauty of life after addiction and breast cancer.”

Stay Connected

For more information on Recovery on the Runway’s upcoming events, sponsorships, and how to get involved, please visit breakfreefoundation.org.

About Break Free Foundation

The Break Free Foundation is a nonprofit organization that supports individuals and families affected by mental health, substance use, and co-occurring disorders by providing scholarships for recovery treatment. Through our fashion-forward events and advocacy work, we raise awareness, promote harm reduction, and empower individuals on their recovery journeys. For more information, visit breakfreefoundation.org.

The Hindu Hriday Milan program, held in Tampa on October 5, 2024, embodied the ancient Hindu principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the belief that the world is one family. In an era marked by increasing divisions, the event stood as a powerful reminder that unity, not separation, is the key to lasting peace. 

The gathering brought together spiritual leaders, community advocates, and various social organizations, emphasizing the importance of love, empathy, and shared humanity. When love is the common language, division doesn’t stand a chance, and borders may separate us, but hearts have no boundaries. The program underscored that peace isn’t just about the absence of conflict—it’s about the presence of connection, where understanding and compassion thrive.

The Hindu Hriday Milan was more than just an event; it was a testament to the idea that when we see ourselves as one family, the walls that divide us crumble. By embracing the age-old wisdom of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, the gathering reminded the world that true harmony is achieved not through power, but through unity, and in that, lies the potential to heal.

Unity in Diversity: A Tapestry of Harmony and Spiritual Growth

The Hindu Hriday Milan program was a powerful demonstration of unity in diversity, bringing together over 20 spiritual and social organizations to create a shared vision of harmony. The event saw representatives from major groups like AAHOA, the world's largest association of hotel owners, including former chairman Bharat Patel, and doctors from AAPI (Association of American Physicians of Indian Origin), alongside leaders from the ayurveda and yoga associations. Their presence, along with members of linguistic organizations such as Gujarati Samaj, Marathi, and Telugu communities, showcased the strength of diversity coming together under one roof. It was a reminder that when we open our minds, our differences become our strength.

The event reinforced the notion that true collaboration transcends cultural boundaries. Leaders from these varied backgrounds emphasized the importance of fostering dialogue, shared purpose, and mutual respect across different sectors. The program highlighted that unity isn’t about everyone being the same—it’s about coming together in our differences to build something stronger. This convergence of ideas and voices created a vibrant environment where collaboration was key to growth.

As the day unfolded, the event's message became even clearer: peace isn’t just the absence of problems; it’s the presence of understanding. The Hindu Hriday Milan gathering was more than a display of solidarity; it was a living, breathing example of how diverse communities can unite for a common cause, proving that connection and empathy can bridge the deepest divides.

A Convergence of Spiritual Traditions: Elevating Unity and the Human Spirit

The spiritual depth of the Hindu Hriday Milan program was as rich as its diversity. Devotees and leaders from respected traditions such as Pushti Marg, Art of Living, Hare Krishna, and others infused the event with the essence of their unique spiritual practices. Each tradition brought its own flavor, yet the message was the same: when hearts beat together, differences disappear. The shared spiritual energy was a testament to the fact that no matter the path, they all lead to a common destination—unity and understanding.

A highlight of the program was a profound lecture by Pujya Munivatsal Swami, a revered figure from Delhi Akshardham, who spoke eloquently on how unity has the power to transcend differences and uplift the human spirit. His words resonated deeply, reminding the audience that the strength of a community isn’t measured by its sameness, but by its ability to embrace differences and rise above them. The program proved that spiritual traditions are not isolated islands, but bridges that connect us, elevating the human experience when approached with open hearts and minds.

In this sacred convergence, the participants demonstrated that spirituality isn’t about being in agreement—it’s about being in harmony. The unique blend of practices at Hindu Hriday Milan was a reminder that when traditions meet in the spirit of mutual respect, they amplify rather than dilute each other, creating an atmosphere where unity becomes a transformative force.

BAPS: A Pillar of Unity and Service

The Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) played a central role in organizing the Hindu Hriday Milan program. Known globally for its commitment to unity and selfless service, BAPS seamlessly brought together diverse communities to celebrate shared values. Its longstanding mission of fostering harmony was reflected in the smooth execution and the inclusive spirit of the event.

A Catalyst for Unity and Peace: Love as the Foundation

The Hindu Hriday Milan program delivered a profound message: the root cause of conflict and suffering is the absence of love and understanding. The gathering served as a powerful reminder that true peace and harmony can only emerge through cultivating compassion and empathy. As participants embraced this message, the event highlighted the transformative power of love in breaking down barriers and dissolving divisions, offering a vision of a more peaceful world.

A Beacon of Hope: Embracing Our Shared Humanity

The program was a clarion call for unity, urging attendees to transcend differences and embrace a shared sense of humanity. With a focus on understanding and cooperation, the event fostered a deep sense of community. Drawing on the timeless wisdom of ancient spiritual teachings, Hindu Hriday Milan reminded all present of the profound societal impact that can arise from empathy, respect, and collective responsibility.

Vision of Unity and Collaboration

Under the stewardship of Hiten Bhuta and Sakar, the Hindu Hriday Milan program exemplified a commitment to fostering harmony within the Hindu community. Bhuta’s dedication to promoting understanding and his leadership in bringing diverse voices together demonstrated his belief that unity is key to addressing the challenges of modern society.

Hiten Bhuta: Host of Hindu Hriday Milan and a Lifelong Pursuit of Knowledge

As the host of the Hindu Hriday Milan event, Hiten Bhuta brought a unique blend of scholarship, entrepreneurship, and community service to the forefront. With an educational background spanning institutions such as the University of Mumbai, IIT-Bombay, IIM-Ahmedabad, Harvard, UPenn, and Stanford, Bhuta's pursuit of knowledge has been a defining feature of his life. This academic rigor has informed his career as a visionary entrepreneur, particularly in the hotel technology sector, where his leadership of Cyberweb Hotels and partnerships with global giants like Google and GoDaddy have made him a key player in the industry.

Innovator with a Purpose

While Bhuta's professional success is impressive, his role as the host of Hindu Hriday Milan reflects a deeper commitment to fostering unity and spiritual growth. Despite a busy career in technology and hospitality, Bhuta remains dedicated to community engagement. His leadership at this event underscored his belief in the power of bringing diverse voices together to promote harmony and understanding. 

Balancing Professional Success with Spiritual Dedication

Hiten Bhuta's ability to balance his roles as an industry leader and a servant to the community is a testament to his character. As the host of this significant event, he demonstrated how one can thrive professionally while staying grounded in service, unity, and the spiritual values that define his commitment to humanity.

Spiritual Intelligence Over Artificial Intelligence

Pujya Shobhitswarup Swami’s message on spiritual intelligence offered a refreshing perspective in today’s tech-driven world. “Artificial intelligence may make you look good, but spiritual intelligence will make you good,” he noted, emphasizing the enduring importance of human compassion and empathy over technological progress. His words served as a reminder that personal growth and moral integrity are rooted in spirituality, not machines.

Faith and Unity in Prayer

Pujya Nirdoshswarup Swami and Pujya Shobhitswarup Swami led devotional prayers to various Hindu deities, underlining the importance of respecting and embracing all traditions within Hinduism. Their collective teachings on faith and unity left a deep impact on attendees, reinforcing the central theme of inclusivity.

A Communal Spirit: Bhajans and Service

Hiten Bhuta’s thoughtful introductions of each guest, coupled with the blessings and personal acknowledgments from the Swamis, created an atmosphere of unity and inclusivity. More than a celebration of Hindu unity, the Hindu Hriday Milan highlighted the broader message of understanding and togetherness.

A Shared Meal, A Shared Spirit

The program concluded with an uplifting session of bhajans, followed by a communal meal prepared by BAPS volunteers, embodying the spirit of service. The event showcased the power of collective harmony, uniting participants through shared faith and mutual respect.

Jagatguru Adi Shankaracharya’s Vision - A Call for Unity

The Hindu Hriday Milan program is a small step in the direction of the visionary efforts of Adi Shankaracharya, the 8th-century philosopher who sought to unify Hindu traditions through his teachings. Shankaracharya’s philosophy of Advaita, or non-dualism, aimed to foster spiritual unity and a deeper understanding within Hinduism.

Modern Video & Books On Jagatguru Adi Shankaracharya's Stotras:

Hiten Bhuta, an admirer of Shankaracharya’s work, has dedicated himself to preserving and sharing these teachings in a contemporary context. Through a series of video presentations and books, Bhuta has explored key stotras, including Atma Shatakam, Atma Bodha, Maya Panchakam, Sadhana Panchakam, Shiv Manas Puja, and Dakshinamurthy Stotra. His efforts focus on bringing ancient wisdom into dialogue with modern life, helping others find relevance in Shankaracharya’s timeless message.

Building Bridges: The Role of Sakar Foundation in Hindu Hriday Milan

The Sakar Foundation, established by Hiten Bhuta and his family, was instrumental in the success of the Hindu Hriday Milan program. As a non-profit organization, Sakar Foundation focuses on creating strong, supportive communities, and this event was no exception. With dedicated volunteers working behind the scenes, the foundation ensured that every participant felt welcomed and valued.

Hiten Bhuta's hands-on involvement, along with the support of the BAPS team, contributed to an atmosphere of inclusivity and unity. The collaborative efforts of Sakar Foundation's volunteers helped foster a sense of belonging and mutual respect, making the event a true celebration of community spirit.

Reflections on a Historic Gathering

The Hindu Hriday Milan program was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended. Participants expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and be inspired by the wisdom of spiritual leaders.

Comments from Participants:

• “It was a truly inspiring event that brought us closer together as a community.”
• “Thank you for creating such a welcoming and uplifting atmosphere.”
• “I was deeply moved by the spiritual teachings and the sense of unity among the attendees.”
• “This program has rekindled my faith and given me a renewed sense of purpose.”
• “I look forward to attending more events like this in the future.”

The resounding theme of gratitude and appreciation that emerged from the participants’ comments underscored the significance of the Hindu Hriday Milan program. The event served as a powerful reminder of the importance of unity, compassion, and spiritual connection within the Hindu community.

 A Symbol of Unity and Inspiration

The Hindu Hriday Milan program showcased the powerful impact of human connection and the strength found in unity. By bringing together a wide range of spiritual leaders and community members, the event highlighted the value of understanding, tolerance, and cooperation in an increasingly divided world. Attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose, motivated by the vision of a unified Hindu community and hopeful for a future marked by greater harmony and collaboration.

About Sakar Trust

Sakar Jivanvikas Trust (Sakar Foundation) stands true to its Sanskrit name, meaning “to bring into reality.” Dedicated to healthcare, education, human empowerment, and cultural preservation, Sakar transforms communities through innovative projects without charging fees or accepting donations. Recognized globally, including by India’s Prime Minister, Sakar’s impact is felt across countless lives through its H.E.L.P. framework—Healthcare, Education, Life & Culture, and Public Policy. For more information, visit https://www.sakartrust.org.

The Matchbox, a leader in B2B marketing & advertising solutions, proudly announces the launch of its Hybrid AI Media Production Services. This innovative service blends human creativity with advanced AI and ML technologies, enabling the production of customized marketing content at unparalleled speed and scale.

How It Works

Starting with human-driven design to capture a brand’s core message, Hybrid AI leverages generative AI to produce hundreds of creative variations, each tailored to diverse audience segments. This approach allows brands to deliver content that feels authentically human-crafted and resonates personally with viewers. While efficiency is significantly enhanced, the final product maintains the highest professional quality, with no compromise on design or any noticeable AI involvement.

“In an era where personalization is key, our Hybrid AI technology allows brands to resonate with their audience like never before,” said Erik Leavell, Director of Design at The Matchbox. “We’re using AI not to replace creativity but to supercharge it, giving our clients the ability to evolve their message dynamically and effectively." 

Hybrid AI employs top AI tools like Midjourney, Stable Diffusion, and Adobe Creative Suite to create visually stunning content across formats, from video to static imagery. By improving turnaround times and streamlining the creative process, The Matchbox’s Hybrid AI maximizes both creative quality and efficiency.

"A/B testing is a legacy approach. We like to use the full alphabet," added Ani Bisaria, CEO of The Matchbox

Join the Future of Advertising

With campaigns showing up to twice the engagement and significantly reduced costs per acquisition, The Matchbox’s Hybrid AI program has already proven its potential to transform marketing strategies for B2B brands.

The Matchbox invites companies to embrace the future of creative production—where AI and human expertise combine to create the most personalized, efficient, and engaging advertising possible.

For more information on Hybrid AI and how it can help your business grow, visit thematchbox.inc/hybrid-ai or book an informational call at thematchbox.inc/contact.

About The Matchbox

The Matchbox is a premier digital marketing and media agency headquartered in Los Angeles, CA. We specialize in scaling mid-market and enterprise companies through a range of services, including paid media, programmatic advertising, media production, and sales/marketing operations. Leveraging both AI and human expertise, we are committed to reshaping work experiences and increasing productivity for our clients around the world. For more information, please visit www.thematchbox.inc.

With just under a month until show time, Charleston Literary Festival is happy to report that the Festival has already sold out of three events, sold out the V.I.P. weekend packages, and seen an increase of 40% on total ticket sales from last year. The Festival is also delighted to announce that it is planning to further its community impact this year by welcoming student groups from 11 different schools and universities in South Carolina and North Carolina.

The full lineup of world-class authors and innovative literary experiences that will feature at the 2024 festival, set to take place from November 1 to November 10 at Dock Street Theatre. Tickets for the 2024 Festival—which boasts 37 events—are on sale now at CharlestonLiteraryFestival.com.

2024 speakers include Nikki Giovanni, Colm Tóibín, Rachel Kushner, Claire Messud, Adam Gopnik, Attica Locke, Chris Whitaker, Geoff Dyer, James Shapiro, Sharon Malone, Michele Norris, David Blight, Jayne Anne Phillips, Ilyon Woo, Ramie Targoff, Eddie S. Glaude Jr., Marie Arana, Paul Murray, and many more.

“This year’s line-up reflects Charleston Literary Festival’s commitment to world-class programming with an international edge and constant innovation in the literary arts,” says Sarah Moriarty, Executive Director of Charleston Literary Festival. “We’re honored to host a 10-day celebration bubbling over with award-winning authors, big ideas, and lively conversations. From producing a world premiere play with an international creative team to launching the CLF Cato Fellowship to promote writers in North and South Carolina, this year’s Festival shows that there are no limits to what we can create in our thriving literary city.”

Charleston History: Charleston READS! Returns With a Pulitzer Prize-Winning Book That Reveals Dock Street Theatre’s Secret History

Event: Master Slave Husband Wife, Ilyon Woo in conversation with Dr. Kim Cliett Long, Founder of the Mayor’s Book Club and Charleston Literary Festival board member

Date and time: Sunday, November 10 at 4 p.m.

Location: Dock Street Theatre

Tickets: Admission is free, but registration required

This year’s Festival will see Ilyon Woo appear in conversation about her novel Master Slave Husband Wife—winner of the 2024 Pulitzer Prize for Biography—in a historic location with deep significance, the Dock Street Theatre.

Woo's book is the true story of Ellen and William Craft who pulled off one of the most dramatic escapes in US history by performing, in broad daylight, as master and slave. In 1848, the couple fled in the early hours of the morning by train from Macon to Savannah, where they boarded a steamship bound for Charleston, South Carolina. In Charleston, they stayed the night in Planter’s Hotel before sailing north. What was then the Planter’s Hotel is now The Dock Street Theatre. Festival attendees will hear Ilyon Woo discuss the Crafts and their journey to freedom in the exact building in Charleston where the fleeing couple hid 176 years ago.

Master Slave Husband Wife is the book selection for the third annual Mayor’s Book Club Charleston READS!, a city-wide read-together program launched in 2022 by the Mayor’s Book Club in partnership with Charleston Literary Festival. This event is free for the public; previous Mayor’s Book Club Charleston READS! authors include Imani Perry in 2022 and Elizabeth Dowling Taylor in 2023.

Literary Excellence: Pulitzer Prize-Winners & Booker Nominees 

Two authors longlisted for the UK’s most prestigious award for fiction, the 2024 Booker Prize, will appear at the Festival in November. Rachel Kushner will discuss her wickedly funny novel dealing with espionage and eco-warriors, Creation Lake with Post and Courier editor-at-large, Autumn Phillips. Claire Messud will discuss her novel This Strange Eventful History, about exile and homecoming, with broadcaster, Georgina Godwin.

Two 2024 Pulitzer Prize winners will be in attendance at the Festival. As mentioned above, Ilyon Woo will speak about Master Slave Husband Wife. Jayne Anne Phillips will discuss her novel Night Watch, which won the 2024 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction—a mother-daughter story set in a genteel asylum in West Virginia around the time of the Civil War.

Literary Excellence: Nikki Giovanni on Poetry and Legacy 

Event: Nikki Giovanni in conversation with Dr. Tonya Matthews

Date and time: Monday, November 4 at noon

Location: Dock Street Theatre

Tickets: Admission is $30

Charleston Literary Festival is partnering with the International African American Museum (IAAM) on programming for the second year running to bring literary icon, Nikki Giovanni.

Renowned for her five-decade career as a poet and activist, Prof. Giovanni has captivated audiences with her conviction, humor, and devotion to telling her truth as a Black woman. The collaboration between Charleston Literary Festival and IAAM demonstrates great alignment between the two organizations and their complementary missions to illuminate untold stories of the African American experience.

In this marquee event, Prof. Giovanni will be in conversation with Dr. Tonya Matthews, CEO of IAAM. This is an important opportunity for audiences to share and embrace conversations with one of the most important poets of our time.

World-Class Programming With an International Edge

Charleston Literary Festival maintains its international edge by featuring six authors from the UK, two authors from Ireland, and the current Poet Laureate of Jamaica, Kwame Dawes. 

International Poetry with a South Carolina Connection

Event: Kwame Dawes & Kimiko Hahn: Fortunate Travelers

Date and time: Monday, November 4 at 2 p.m.

Location: Dock Street Theatre

Tickets: Admission is $30

Kwame Dawes is the author of twenty books of poetry and numerous other books of fiction, criticism, and essays. Dawes was born in Ghana, spent most of his childhood and early adult life in Jamaica, and then from 1992 to 2012, he was professor of English and distinguished poet-in-residence at the University of South Carolina. In 2009 Dawes was inducted into the South Carolina Academy of Authors. He is currently  University of Nebraska as the Glenna Luschel Professor of English and the editor of Prairie Schooner. 

New Yorker Kimiko Hahn, born the child of artists—a Japanese American mother from Hawai‘i and a German American father from Wisconsin, earned a master’s degree in Japanese literature from Columbia University. Hahn is the author of ten collections of poetry, including The Ghost Forest: New and Selected Poems (W. W. Norton, 2024); Foreign Bodies (W. W. Norton, 2020); and The Unbearable Heart (Kaya Production, 1995), which received an American Book Award. 

Dawes and Hahn with be in conversation with former South Carolina Poet Laureate, Marjory Wentworth.

Celebrating Franz Kafka 

Event: Ross Benjamin & Mark Harman: A Kafka Centenary Celebration

Date and time: Thursday, November 7 at 4 p.m.

Location: Dock Street Theatre

Tickets: Admission is $30

In celebration of the centenary of German-language writer Franz Kafka’s death, two of the most important English-language translators of Kafka’s work: Ross Benjamin, author of an essential new translation of Kafka’s diaries, The Diaries of Franz Kafka, and Mark Harman, author of a highly praised new collection of Kafka’s short stories, Selected Stories, will discuss Kafka’s worlds and the lasting impact of his work. This event is recognized as part of Project Kafka 2024—a global Kafka festival to celebrate the writer’s centenary coordinated by the Adalbert Stifter Association and the Prague City Library.

Diverse Range of Authors and Genres: There’s Something for Everyone!

At A Glance: Fiction & Poetry

In the categories of fiction and poetry, Charleston Literary Festival 2024 will feature a host of award-winning, internationally acclaimed literary heavyweights including sessions featuring:

• Nikki Giovanni, internationally-renowned poet and activist, will appear to speak about her life in poetry, in partnership with the International African American Museum
• Jayne Anne Phillips, on Night Watch, winner of the 2024 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction  
• Claire Messud on This Strange Eventful History, nominated for the 2024 Booker Prize 
• Rachel Kushner, on Creation Lake, nominated for the Booker Prize in 2024
• Irish writer Colm Tóibín on Long Island, a 2024 Oprah’s Book Club pick 
• English writer Chris Whitaker on All the Colors of the Dark, a 2024 Jenna’s Book Club pick
• Irish writer Paul Murray on The Bee Sting, nominated for the Booker Prize in 2023
• Attica Locke, Guide Me Home, New York Times bestselling author

At A Glance: Nonfiction Themes

When it comes to nonfiction: the Festival will feature the following themes:

• "Sport and endings" with English writer, Geoff Dyer, in The Last Days of Roger Federer
• "The Dreyfus Affair" with Maurice Samuels and Adam Gopnik 
• "Hollywood scandal" with Griffin Dunne discussing his memoir, The Friday Afternoon Club
• "Politics and corporate influence" with Brody Mullins and Luke Mullins in The Wolves of K Street: The Secret History of How Big Money Took Over Big Government
• "Theater and democracy" with James Shapiro in The Playbook
• "Art and why it matters" with Bianca Bosker in Get the Picture
• "Women’s health and happiness" with Sharon Malone in Grown Woman Talk
• "Race and the U.S." with Michele Norris in Our Hidden Conversations
• "Home and exile" with André Aciman in Roman Year 
• "Classics" with Emily Wilson and Judith Thurman as they discuss Wilson’s translation of The Iliad
• "Education and the legacy of slavery" with David Blight in Yale and Slavery: A History
• "Shakespeare’s female contemporaries" with Ramie Targoff in Shakespeare’s Sisters
• "Politics and philosophy" with Michael J. Sandel in Democracy’s Discontent
• "Memory and how we remember" with neuroscientist Dr. Charan Ranganath
• "Patriarchy and how men came to rule" with Angela Saini 
• And more!

Community Commitment: Fostering the Next Generation of Writers and Readers & Community Partnerships

Charleston Literary Festival is delighted to again name the College of Charleston as the Festival’s official Academic Partner. This continued partnership offers opportunities for meaningful connections between visiting authors and College of Charleston students, staff, and faculty. Charleston Literary Festival offers heavily discounted tickets for students, staff, and faculty, as well as internship opportunities for students.

“Partnering with the festival is a great opportunity for the College’s faculty, staff, students and alumni to engage with the literary community,” says Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost Suzanne Austin. 

Charleston Literary Festival will also renew its partnership with Charleston County Public Library (CCPL) this year—in an effort to increase accessibility for sessions and titles, the Festival will partner with the Library on a number of initiatives including a dedicated Festival widget on the CCPL’s Libby app. 

“The Library is a community connector, so we appreciate the opportunity to provide access to the titles featured in this year’s Charleston Literary Festival,” said CCPL Executive Director Angela Craig.

CCPL will also livestream three events at Charleston Literary Festival into CCPL branches this year in an effort to increase access to the programming.

CCPL Livestreaming Events at Local Branches

Event: Michele Norris with Kerri Forrest: Our Hidden Conversations

Date and time: Saturday, November 2 at 2–3 p.m.

Location: Dorchester Road Library (6325 Dorchester Rd, North Charleston, SC 29418)

Tickets: Admission is free

Event: A Conversation with Nikki Giovanni: Nikki Giovanni with Tonya Matthews

Date and time: Monday, November 4 at 12–1 p.m.

Location: Bees Ferry West Ashley Library (2020 Proximity Dr, Charleston, SC 29414)

Tickets: Admission is free

Event: Colm Tóibín with Bilal Qureshi

Date and time: Saturday, November 9 at 12–1 p.m.

Location: Charleston County Library (68 Calhoun St, Charleston, SC 29401)

Tickets: Admission is free

Offers for Burgeoning Writers

Charleston Literary Festival’s Young Writers Awards will return bigger and better than ever. The awards are open to public high school students in Charleston County. The Festival will give awards to nine students competing in three creative writing categories: Fiction, Nonfiction, and Poetry. The nine winners will receive a small cash prize, certificate, gift bag, and the opportunity to open a session at the Festival by reading their work onstage at Dock Street Theatre.

To learn more about the Young Writers Awards, visit https://www.charlestonliteraryfestival.com/young-writers-awards.

2024 also sees the launch of a brand new initiative: the Charleston Literary Festival Cato Fellowship Prize to support and nurture emerging writers in North Carolina and South Carolina. The two winning Fellows will receive full access to Charleston Literary Festival’s sessions and receptions, a writing residency in Dock Street Theatre, free accommodations in downtown Charleston, networking and collaborative opportunities beyond the Festival, and a stipendiary of $7,500 to allow them to further their writing career as they see fit. The Festival has just announced the shortlist of 12 writers. The winning fellows will be announced in mid-October.

Innovative Programming: Charleston Literary Festival Prides Itself in Offering a Range of Literary Happenings

A Theatrical Debate

Event: DEBATE: Baldwin v. Buckley

Date and time: Monday, November 4 at 6 p.m.

Location: Dock Street Theatre

Tickets: Admission is $35

In a true opportunity to Embrace the Conversation and witness the art of how to disagree at its best, on November 4, the 2024 Festival features Debate: Baldwin vs. Buckley. Staged by Brooklyn-based theater company, the american vicarious, the play is a theatrical interpretation of the historic 1965 Cambridge Union debate between James Baldwin, leading literary voice of the civil rights movement, and William F. Buckley Jr., U.S.’s most influential conservative intellectual of the time.

World Premiere Theater: Patrick Bringley’s All The Beauty In The World 

Event: All The Beauty In The World

Date and time: Friday, November 8 and Sunday, November 10 at 6:30 p.m.

Location: Dock Street Theatre

Tickets: Admission is $45

A serendipitous meeting at last year's festival brought together author, Patrick Bringley, and British theater director, Dominic Dromgoole, who have partnered to create All The Beauty In The World, a stage play starring Bringley and directed by Dromgoole, the former artistic director of Shakespeare’s Globe Theater in London. This monologue play has been adapted from Bringley’s book All The Beauty In The World and is produced by Charleston Literary Festival with the help of Spoleto Festival USA.

The play is a fascinating, revelatory portrait of one man who spent ten years as a museum guard in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Bringley’s story of museum treasures, grief, and what art does for us will be brought to life as a one-man-show for the first time ever on stage at Charleston Literary Festival.

Destination Literary Event: Charleston Literary Festival 

Explore Charleston is helping to spread the word that Charleston is a robust literary and cultural center and Charleston Literary Festival is a must-see, signature cultural event. For the first time ever, the Festival is offering special weekend passes with exclusive offers to our increasing number of out-of-town visitors. 

Charleston Literary Festival has solidified a reputation as an intimate, carefully-curated, high-quality event with strong international influences. These hallmarks have made it a perfect complement to our region's lineup of longer-standing festivals and a great addition to our ever-evolving artistic and cultural landscape. Charleston provides the ideal setting for such distinctive programming, and we know this fall's event is sure to raise the bar through new elements such as VIP weekend experiences."

—Helen Hill, CEO of Explore Charleston

Weekend Packages

• Click here for V.I.P. Weekend 1 details
• Click here for V.I.P. Weekend 2 details

Note: V.I.P. WEEKEND PACKAGES ARE NOW SOLD OUT!

Opening Party: A Black and White Masquerade

Event: Black and White Masquerade

Date and time: Friday, November 1 at 8 p.m.

Location: Festival Hall

Tickets: For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://www.charlestonliteraryfestival.com/masked-literary-feast

We are kicking off Charleston Literary Festival like never before with a Black and White Masquerade inspired by the legendary Black and White Ball that writer Truman Capote threw at the Plaza Hotel in New York in November 1966.

Experience a mysterious world of marvelous masks and luminous literati at Festival Hall on November 1 at 8 p.m. Join us to welcome our authors to Charleston and celebrate our guest of honor, artistic director and literary legend, Diana Reich. 

Our M.C. for the evening is Landon Bryant, a.k.a. Instagram personality @LandonTalks. The evening will also feature literary interludes from Laurence Leamer, author of Capote’s Women; Stephen Graham, son of Katharine Graham (Capote’s original guest of honor), and Asiah Mae, Charleston Poet Laureate.

Tickets and Information

Tickets for all sessions and events are now available for purchase at CharlestonLiteraryFestival.com:

• Individual session tickets start at $30
• All Session Access Passes for the entire festival: $675
• Tickets to the Black and White Masquerade start at $350 and are available here

For more information about the festival schedule, author biographies, and event details, please visit CharlestonLiteraryFestival.com or follow us on Instagram at @charlestonlitfest.

To make sure you stay up to date, sign up for our newsletter at https://www.charlestonliteraryfestival.com/newsletter

We encourage you to buy your books locally. You can buy your books at Charleston Literary Festival official bookseller: Buxton Books, located at 160 King Street. You can also check titles out at the Charleston County Public Library, or download or listen to Festival books from the library on the Libby app.

About Charleston Literary Festival

Charleston Literary Festival is a boutique literary festival with an international edge that takes place every November in Charleston, South Carolina. The Festival presents ten days of top-tier literary programming with an international edge—featuring world-class authors and thinkers in lively conversation. A champion of the free exchange of ideas, Charleston Literary Festival's work fosters the next generation of readers and writers in the Southeast with student programs, awards, and an emerging writers fellowship. Previous speakers at Charleston Literary Festival include: Margaret Atwood, Geraldine Brooks, Tina Brown, Hernan Diaz, Eddie S. Glaude Jr., Yaa Gyasi, Patrick Radden Keefe, Ian McEwan, Joyce Carol Oates, Imani Perry, George Saunders, Claire Keegan, Simon Schama, Richard Ford, Safiya Sinclair, Lorrie Moore, Jeannette Winterson, and many more. For further information, visit CharlestonLiteraryFestival.com.

LifeRx.md is pleased to announce that it now accepts CareCredit, offering patients a new, flexible way to manage healthcare expenses. In addition to existing payment options like HSA (health savings accounts) and FSA (flexible spending accounts), CareCredit makes it easier than ever for patients to prioritize their health without financial strain.

“At LifeRx.md, we believe healthcare should be accessible and affordable,” said Mitch Horn, CEO of LifeRx.md. “By adding CareCredit, we’re giving patients more control over how they manage their health costs, so they can focus on getting the care they need without the stress of upfront payments.”

CareCredit is a healthcare credit card designed specifically for health and wellness expenses. It allows patients to spread out the cost of various treatments and services over time, making it easier to invest in their health.

What you can use CareCredit for:

• Medication costs and shipping: Patients can use CareCredit to cover the cost of their prescribed medications and shipping and handling charges at LifeRx.md.
• Consultation fees and follow-up appointments: For consultation or follow-up appointment fees, you can additionally use CareCredit if your card has a Visa or Mastercard logo. Otherwise consultation fees must be paid separately.

How does CareCredit work?

• Simple application process: Applying for CareCredit is quick and easy, with instant approval decisions available online.
• Accepted for health services at LifeRx.md: Patients approved for CareCredit can use it to pay for a range of services at LifeRx.md, including weight management solutions, treatments prescribed by our healthcare providers, and shipping and handling costs. Please note that consultation fees must be paid separately using a Visa or Mastercard.
• Flexible financing options: CareCredit offers promotional financing options, allowing patients to start their treatments right away with flexible, manageable payments.

LifeRx.md provides services without the need for insurance, ensuring that patients can access care with flexible payment plans tailored to fit their financial situation. To learn more about using CareCredit at LifeRx.md or to explore the services offered, visit LifeRx.md.

About LifeRx.md

LifeRx.md is dedicated to providing personalized, expert care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. With a range of health and wellness services, LifeRx.md empowers patients to take control of their well-being, offering flexible payment solutions that make healthcare more accessible. To learn more, visit LifeRx.md.

Simplified Clinical Data Systems is pleased to announce the next step in the drive for Zero Data Entry™ in clinical trial data collection. Available for immediate release is seamless integration with Microsoft/Nuance’s Dragon Medical One speech-driven clinical documentation companion. Dragon Medical One, as the industry’s #1 rated conversational AI workflow assistant and documentation companion, gives clinicians a hands-free option for completing electronic Case Report Forms (eCRFs) using a tool with which they are already familiar.

This significant development compliments previous enhancements to its Clinical Discovery Platform that include AI-driven medical Text Analytics (from Microsoft) and direct data capture from electronic health record systems. John Schwope, president of Simplified Clinical, states, “This latest product enhancement further demonstrates our unwavering commitment to reduce clinical research cost/timelines, improve data quality, and minimize the administrative burden placed on research coordinators and investigators.”

As a member of Microsoft’s AI Cloud Partner Program, Simplified Clinical is combining its 20 year history of delivering client-driven clinical research data management systems with the latest from Microsoft Azure/Cloud for Healthcare. The integration with Dragon Medical One further solidifies this partnership and a shared vision for the future of clinical research. 

Mr. Schwope added, “Our relationship with Microsoft started many years ago and continues to deliver significant value to our clients and their investigational partners. We are excited to bring the future of clinical research to our sponsors, investigators, and coordinators to help improve patient care."

For more information about Simplified Clinical’s expanded interoperability capabilities and how it can benefit your clinical trials, please visit SimplifiedClinical.com.

About Simplified Clinical

Simplified Clinical pioneers clinical trial software innovation, supported by a strategic partnership with Microsoft Azure/Cloud for Healthcare. Our commitment to AI, cloud computing, and interoperability standards like FHIR® drives efficiencies and unlocks new possibilities in clinical research. Leveraging Azure’s infrastructure, we accelerate data collection and analysis, offering sponsors unparalleled value. With a vision for zero/near-zero data entry, we're shaping the future of healthcare technology, benefiting patients, clients, and stakeholders. For more information, visit SimplifiedClinical.com.

Prohaska Consulting, the award-winning global digital consultancy, today announced the launch of ProNews, a collective of publishers delivering high-quality news content and filling a unique space for advertisers to reach more news consumers in a brand-safe environment.

In an exclusive partnership with one of the world's largest supply-side platforms (SSPs), Index Exchange, this offering creates a streamlined way to reach highly desired news audiences. ProNews is now available as a marketplace atop Index Marketplaces, a flexible platform that leverages Index Exchange's programmatic infrastructure, streamlining access to quality publishers.

“ProNews is the natural evolution of our efforts over the past year, bringing together news publishers, agencies, and advertisers to solve the challenges associated with advertising on news and to drive revenue back into the category,” said Matt Prohaska, CEO & Principal, at Prohaska Consulting. “It started with our award-winning initiative The Rebranding of News. It is all about boosting direct revenue for the most important and respected publishers in the industry, and delivering the incomparable news audience to advertisers in those brand-safe environments, without the overuse and overblocking from brand safety technologies.”

ProNews will offer curated inventory in quality news content from a collection of premium publishers. The offering will enable buyers to complement single publisher ad buys with an array of top-tier, high-quality news publishers in PG/PMP deals, and deliver their audience above the fray of the open auction. ProNews will use semantic and contextual filtering, plus publishers’ solutions for brand safety, including the publisher-driven blocking of inappropriate content.

“We’re excited by the opportunities that ProNews brings to the table,” said Stephani Estes, Chief Media Officer at Goodway Group. “We believe in the value of news audiences and their ability to drive results for our clients. Too much of the industry has taken an overly cautious approach to reaching this audience when it’s possible to do that in brand-safe environments.  We think ProNews is a vehicle that can bring them back.”

The digital media industry has been awash in discussion and efforts to combat disinformation, support credible journalism, and address overzealous brand safety measures. This includes significant research published by the Internet Advertising Bureau (IAB), and leading global agency group Stagwell which point to news content creating a highly favorable environment for brands. Among the data points that support news as the place to be for advertisers:

• 94% of news consumers have a neutral or positive perception of brands advertising in quality news content (2024 IAB News Survey)
• 88% of news consumers have a neutral or positive perception of brands advertising in quality serious/breaking news content (2024 IAB News Survey)
• Among GenZ, purchase intent for brands whose ads were placed next to articles on inflation and the U.S. economy was 66%​ (2024 Stagwell, Future of News Study)

“Our partnership with ProNews reflects our shared commitment to supporting quality journalism,” said Andrew Casale, president and CEO of Index Exchange. “By leveraging our supply-side infrastructure, we are creating an environment where premium publishers can thrive, and marketers can confidently connect with trusted news audiences at scale.”  

“We’re building a collective of the industry’s best publishers, offering the best audience, and clearly the best advertisers will gravitate there,” said Prohaska. “Everyone knows it’s a challenge for the industry to address, and we’re aiming to tackle it in the same way we solve problems for our clients. By using our collective experience and bringing partners together.”

Sales efforts will be led by Prohaska Consulting’s Magnify division, a custom-assembled team of industry veterans with extensive networks. For more information on ProNews, visit www.pronews.co.

About Prohaska Consulting

Prohaska Consulting is an award-winning global digital consultancy that provides strategic advisory services to clients across the marketing technology landscape. Described by clients as “connectors, disruptors, and data leaders,” Team Prohaska has helped more than 600 companies (brands, publishers agencies, tech, trade groups, and more) grow revenue, create business opportunities, and increase operational effectiveness & efficiency. The company is globally headquartered in New York City, with more than 100 full-time, fractional, and active freelance teammates around the world. Learn more at www.prohaskaconsulting.com.

About Index Exchange

Index Exchange is a global advertising supply-side platform enabling media owners to maximize the value of their content on any screen. We’re a proud industry pioneer with over 20 years of experience connecting leading experience makers with the world’s largest brands to ensure a quality experience for consumers. To learn more, visit: www.indexexchange.com.

On September 23, the Dominican police and prosecution missed the third court-mandated deadline to deliver evidence discovery in the ongoing case against Jonathan Lehrer—the first being in March followed by July and now September. In an incident that ignited widespread public and media attention, U.S. citizen Jonathan Lehrer was arrested and charged with the murder of Daniel Langlois with no evidence or eyewitness to the crime. Police claim Lehrer was a person of interest and arrested due to an ongoing lawsuit that Langlois brought against Lehrer concerning the usage of a road on Lehrer’s property. Lehrer has now been in Dominican prison since December 2023 with no evidence brought against him.

Even though the Dominican police, led by both Chief of Police Davidson Valerie and Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police Jeffrey James, publicly claimed as early as February they have ample evidence to easily close the case, they have not been able to provide any evidence (forensic or witness) in more than nine months that legally demonstrates a tie between Jonathan Lehrer and the crime. The discovery evidence demanded by the magistrates include other elements like the autopsy report, crime scene photos, international expert investigation reports, financial reports, DNA analysis report, vehicle forensic report, GSR and lab reports of tested clothing samples, and supporting chain of custody documentation—all of which the police have stated they have but have refused to share with the defense to date. State Magistrates and the High Court of Dominica have mandated three different deadlines for said evidence discovery and the prosecution has missed every deadline with impunity as Jonathan remains in jail, without even a preliminary hearing.

“The police acted very irresponsibly, very unprofessional and I believe without regard for the law, as they arrested me without any evidence. They acted so quickly, it seems impossible that they could have investigated any other options to this case—to them it was me or nothing. That’s just not how investigations are done,” stated Jonathan Lehrer via his attorney. “They basically arrested me on pure suspicion and subsequently gave multiple statements implicating me at press conferences (as early as February) stating they had all the evidence they needed to close the case. The police portrayed me as guilty to everyone, including the international community, the press, and the people of Dominica. Since those press conferences, they have failed at every court-mandated step to provide any evidence and are now, going on ten months later, complaining to the State that they need more and more time to gather additional evidence. In the meantime, I’m left in a maximum security prison. I’m very ill and I’m being denied medical facilities for needed treatments. There is a good chance that I will die in here and they all know it—one has to wonder if that’s the police endgame.”

Jonathan has been incarcerated in Dominican jail where he is suffering from multiple health issues—most notably the significant possibility of prostate cancer. The Minister of National Security, Raymond Blackmoore, and the Acting Superintendent of Prisons, Jeffrey Edmund, continue to deny any access to treat the possible prostate cancer claiming there is no definitive diagnosis for the disease, but there are no resources on Dominica to make the diagnosis and Lehrer was not allowed to leave the island under Dominican custody to get a definitive answer on the matter. Jonathan has also been denied any access to outside medical assistance, including requested phone calls with prostate cancer specialists.

Moreover, Raymond Blackmoore continues to refuse any and all press access to Jonathan even though the Dominican Constitution (in Section 10) states individuals have a right to "receive and communicate ideas and information without interference." Even worse, while a U.S. citizen is kept in prison without evidence for more than ten months, the U.S. Embassy and State Department have refused to step in on the matter.

Jonathan Lehrer is represented by Pilgrim & Associates.

About KCT Chambers

KCT Chambers is a law chambers located in Bridgetown, Barbados. It was established out of a desire to help individuals and entities capitalize on opportunities, enforce rights, resolve existing challenges and preempt future ones. We believe in practical and legally grounded solutions and are guided by the core principles of accessibility, integrity and diligence. In order to achieve these objectives we apply a progressive, responsive and client-centred approach which is built upon detailed analysis of legal rights and obligations and the provision of clear, timely and consistent advice. For more information, visit https://kctchambers.com.

About Andrew O. G. Pilgrim Q.C.

Mr. Pilgrim is the founder of Pilgrim & Associates, the largest law chambers in Barbados to have a focus on criminal litigation. With over 25 years in practice, he is renowned throughout Barbados and the English-speaking Caribbean for his passionate and inspired representation of his clients. He has leveraged his wealth of knowledge and exceptional oratorical and analytical skills in a plethora of cases which have led to landmark decisions of the Court of Appeal of Barbados and the Caribbean Court of Justice.