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The Ibu Movement, a pioneering force in poverty disruption and cultural preservation, is delighted to announce its upcoming event, "Colombiana!." This distinctive fundraising experience will celebrate the rich cultural heritage, craftsmanship, and cuisine of Colombia. Set to take place on November 15, 2023, this event will unfold across 10 different homes in Charleston’s historic South of Broad neighborhood, promising an unforgettable evening for all attendees.

“Colombiana!” will immerse guests in the rich and diverse tapestry of Colombian traditions, offering a unique opportunity to explore the country's heritage and culinary excellence. Artisans and luminaries from Colombia will come to Charleston to share their rich history, traditions, and craft over intimate dinners. This event exemplifies Ibu Movement's ongoing mission to foster understanding and appreciation of cultures from around the world.

Guests will enjoy authentic Colombian meals with the menu personalized by Mariana Velasquez, an award-winning food stylist and author of the celebrated cookbook, “Colombiana: A Rediscovery of Recipes and Rituals from the Soul of Colombia.” The evening will culminate with a stroll to a Lamboll Street residence for a grand finale of desserts prepared by FIG, dramatically styled by Mariana. 

Following dessert, attendees will be invited to shop treasures crafted by Ibu artisans at a Colombian pop-up boutique curated by Ibu Movement’s partners at El Dorado Edit. The entire evening is a tribute to culture and craft, and the ancient wisdom these indigenous artisans possess.

“I have met these luminaries in the artisanal world of Colombia, crafting not only beauty but change. It is an honor to listen to the remarkable stories of the First Nations indigenous artisans the week before we celebrate our own Thanksgiving, and to learn how their culture and craft carry ancient wisdom, how their food carries rich history, how their hearts carry such light,” shares Susan Hull Walker, Founder and CEO of the Ibu Movement. 

Tickets for "Colombiana!" are available for purchase on the Ibu Movement website at Ibumovement.org. This event promises to be a memorable experience and an indelible celebration of culture, craftsmanship, and the timeless wisdom of indigenous artisans.

About Ibu Movement

The word Ibu means “a woman of respect” in the Malay language of Indonesia. Ibu is a global movement of women rising into self-sufficiency through the art of their hands and hearts. A 501(c)(3), offering a marketplace for the made goods of our global artisan partners in over 50 countries, and grants for operational growth. Ibu organizes events and global travel to connect allies with artisans around the world. For more information, visit ibumovement.org.

Media Contact

Brianna Martinelli, Account Executive

Wawner Strategies

brianna@wawnerstrategies.com

Media Contact

Lasley Steever
lasley@ibumovement.org

EZ Newswire, a platform that makes it easy and affordable for businesses of all sizes to create and publish their news, announced today an exclusive partnership with Big Technology, the leading online publication about big tech and society with more than 142,000 subscribers and read by thousands of Silicon Valley decision makers. Available only on EZ Newswire, businesses will now be able to publish their news and announcements on Big Technology and tap into its prestigious and growing audience.

An innovator in the newswire industry, EZ Newswire is an AI-powered platform and integrated publisher network that enables businesses to easily and affordably create and publish press releases to media outlets, including the Associated Press and now Big Technology. Since its beta launch in May, EZ Newswire’s offering has attracted a wide range of customers, including Priceline, College of Charleston, and hundreds of small businesses in over 800 cities and towns across the country. In August, EZ Newswire added The Post and Courier, a Pulitzer Prize winner and South Carolina’s paper of record, to its exclusive publisher network, with Big Technology and a slate of other leading media outlets to follow over the next few months.

Founded in 2020 by Alex Kantrowitz, author and one of the world’s most prolific and influential tech reporters, Big Technology is the leading independent media company covering the tech business and its impact on society. Known for its compelling interviews with industry veterans like Brian Chesky of Airbnb and insightful discussions on AI development with experts from DeepMind, Snowflake, and Conviction, Big Technology has a strong reputation for presenting important narratives that shape the landscape of the tech industry. Recently, its podcast charted as the No. 1 tech news show in the U.S. on Apple Podcasts, ahead of The Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, and The Economist.

The inclusion of Big Technology in EZ Newswire's exclusive network enables users to gain significant exposure in the technology sector and amplify the voices and stories that are shaping the future of technology—from seed-stage startups to publicly traded tech giants and everything in between.

"Joining the EZ Newswire publisher network is a fantastic opportunity for Big Technology and our subscribers. This partnership will help us broaden our content and enrich our industry discussions,” said Kantrowitz. Added Caitlin Kelly, founder of EZ Newswire, “Having known and worked with Alex for nearly a decade, I’m excited to partner with him and for EZ Newswire to be the first newswire to offer distribution to the publications that will define the future of media.”

About EZ Newswire

EZ Newswire is a platform that makes it easy and affordable for businesses of all sizes to create and publish their news. Our technology produces professional announcements in minutes with no writing or public relations experience required, while our publisher network guarantees placement to ensure the news reaches the right audience. From Main Street to Wall Street, find out why thousands of organizations trust us to power their headlines at www.eznewswire.com.

About Big Technology

Big Technology is an independent media company founded by Alex Kantrowitz in 2020. Since its debut in 2020, Big Technology’s audience has steadily grown and today exceeds 142,000 tech decision-makers. For more information on Big Technology and to stay up to date with its latest episodes and articles, please subscribe at www.bigtechnology.com.

Media Contact

Caitlin Kelly
ck@eznewswire.com

Ibu Movement, a company dedicated to expanding markets for global women artisans and building their capacity for success, is pleased to share that founder Susan Hull Walker was a panelist at the Women for Women Summit hosted by the College of Charleston Business School in Charleston, SC on October 5 at 10:30 a.m.

The panel discussion titled "Think Globally, Act Locally" emphasized the need for individuals to consider the health of the entire planet and take action in their own communities. By focusing on the local environment and engaging in small acts, individuals can contribute to the much-needed changes. The speakers highlighted how their work not only has a local impact but also addresses broader global issues. Speakers included LaVanda Brown, Executive Director, YWCA of Greater Charleston; Reshma Khan, M.D., Founder, Shifa Clinic; and Jennet Robinson Alterman, Non-Profit Consultant and Women’s Rights Advocate.

Susan Hull Walker's participation in the Women for Women Summit was significant as she shed light on the mission of Ibu Movement. With a mission of elevating women artisans worldwide, Ibu Movement disrupts poverty and fosters change through the artistry of these talented individuals. The company is expanding into new markets for global women artisans and provide them with the necessary support, such as workspace and training, to enhance their success.

Looking ahead, Ibu Movement is committed to doubling its impact on women artisans over the next ten years. The company will continue to expand markets for these talented individuals and provide them with the necessary resources and training to enhance their skills and success. Through these efforts, Ibu Movement aims to create lasting change and improve the lives of women artisans globally.

For more information about Ibu Movement and its mission to elevate women artisans, please visit https://ibumovement.org/.

Media Contact

Lasley Steever
lasley@ibumovement.org

KraveBeauty, the direct-to-consumer skincare brand, announces the launch of Oil La La, a watery oil serum that aims to #pressreset on conventional harsh, drying, and oil-free acne treatments. With a blend of linoleic acid-rich oils, skin-soothing peptides, and cica ingredients, Oil La La helps prevent breakouts by balancing the skin’s lipid profile to support a healthy sebum composition. 

#PressReset on the oil-free myth. Oily Skin needs oil, too.

Oil La La challenges the conventional wisdom that oily skin needs to be stripped of oil. In fact, it needs more linoleic acid-rich oils to balance out the skin’s natural oils. Oily, acne-prone skin’s sebum is naturally deficient in free fatty acids, especially linoleic acid. This imbalance in lipid composition causes the natural sebum to be waxy, gloopy, and comedogenic, leading to breakouts. 

The Science Behind the Serum

KraveBeauty Oil La La contains a blend of non-comedogenic, nourishing omega fatty oils high in linoleic acid, including 100% traceable rosehip oil upcycled from the jam industry, jojoba oil, grapeseed oil, and sunflower oil. These ingredients help transform the sebum into light, protective fluid, reducing clogged pores  and improving the skin's appearance. It also features the Cicatide™ Complex, a blend of five skin-soothing peptides and madecassoside for anti-inflammation and redness reduction. Additionally, Shiunko Oil increases moisture hydration and improves the skin barrier function.

Oil La La is now available at www.kravebeauty.com and retails for $28. This product is PETA-certified vegan & cruelty-free and free of fragrance, essential oil, colorant and dye.

About KraveBeauty

KraveBeauty was founded by beauty influencer, Liah Yoo, to #PressReset on the way we think about skincare. KraveBeauty's mission is to humanize the beauty industry for the people and the planet to create a more sustainable and equitable world. KraveBeauty seeks to inspire the industry to press reset on every harmful industry norm and prioritize stakeholder capitalism over shareholder capitalism through its #SlowDownSkincare campaign and its venture studio, PressResetVentures.

To learn more, visit KraveBeauty.com and follow along with the brand on Instagram, @kravebeauty.

Media Contact

Andy Chiu
andy@kravebeauty.com

In celebration of Green Sports Day, Bold Reuse, a global leader in reusable packaging systems, in collaboration with the Portland Trail Blazers and Moda Center’s hospitality partner, Levy, are proud to announce the launch of a first-of-its-kind full-venue reusable packaging initiative within U.S. professional sports. Starting on October 27th, 2023, Rip City Reuse is poised to significantly advance progress toward phasing out single-use packaging in sports and entertainment venues.  

Over the 2022–2023 season, Moda Center took its first steps toward phasing out single-use packaging by converting single-use boats into reusable trays on the club level. This pilot program achieved remarkable success, boasting an 88% average return rate by the end of the season. This achievement was due to successful fan engagement in partnership with Moda Center’s environmental services team. Moreover, 95% of the fans who participated in the pilot expressed their desire to see the initiative expanded to encompass additional products and levels within the arena. This resounding support from the Portland community fueled the decision to introduce reusable cups for alcoholic beverages on an arena-wide scale.

The Portland Trail Blazers, a long-time leader in sports sustainability, is leading the charge again by making reusable cups the default option for every event and game held within the arena, at no additional cost to guests. Implementing the Bold Reuse system provides a world-class fan experience while reducing carbon emissions, water consumption, and energy usage. Furthermore, it exemplifies the Blazers’ unwavering commitment to improving the local Portland community, generating more environmentally friendly jobs, and significantly reducing landfill waste.  

“We're proud to lead the zero waste movement in professional sports," said Brittany Saulsbury, Sustainability Operations Manager for the Portland Trail Blazers. "Our partnership with Bold Reuse shows our ongoing dedication to offering world-class fan experiences while being at the forefront of sustainability within the industry. Rip City Reuse also highlights sports' potential to drive sustainability education and global climate impact.”

Rip City Reuse is spearheading a movement that is already inspiring other venues and teams across the nation. Before, many leaders in the industry didn’t believe reuse at scale was possible, this program now proves that it is possible. Implementing the Bold Reuse system enables packaging to become a revenue generator, sets a new standard for fan experience, and dramatically changes the norms around waste creation. 

"The Trail Blazers’ decision to adopt reusables arena-wide sets an extraordinary standard for venues and businesses nationwide," said Jocelyn Quarrell, CEO of Bold Reuse. "We are honored to partner with the Portland Trail Blazers and Levy to implement this transformative program. The success of Rip City Reuse is a win for our local Portland community and the world. The most exciting part is we’re just getting started."

Rip City Reuse officially kicks off arena-wide at Moda Center on October 27th. 

About Bold Reuse

Bold Reuse transforms how businesses support their customers' reusable packaging business operations to reduce their waste footprint while expanding brand awareness and customer loyalty. Oregon Convention Center, Starbucks, Imperfect Foods, and the Portland Trail Blazers have partnered with Bold Reuse to help implement and scale reuse systems into their organizations. Bold Reuse has helped customers avert over 3 million pounds of waste from the landfill. For more information, visit https://www.boldreuse.com.

About the Portland Trail Blazers

Members of the National Basketball Association (NBA), the Portland Trail Blazers were founded in 1970 and purchased by the late Paul G. Allen in 1988. The team’s rich heritage includes 37 playoff appearances, three trips to the NBA Finals, an NBA championship in 1977, and a commitment to community service and sustainability. The Trail Blazers are dedicated to positively impacting underserved kids and their families throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington where they live, learn and play. Portland is the first and only professional sports franchise to receive the prestigious National Points of Light Award for excellence in corporate and community service. The Trail Blazers' home arena, Moda Center, is the first existing arena to earn LEED Platinum Certification in 2019 after receiving LEED Gold Recertification in 2015 and becoming the first existing professional sports venue in the world to receive LEED Gold status in 2010. The team is also one of the founding members of the Green Sports Alliance. For more information, visit trailblazers.com.

About Levy Restaurants

The disruptor in defining the sports and entertainment hospitality experience, Levy is recognized as the market leader and most critically acclaimed hospitality company in its industry. Twice named one of the 10 most innovative companies in sports by Fast Company magazine and one of the top three Best Employers for Diversity in America by Forbes, Levy’s diverse portfolio includes award-winning restaurants; iconic sports and entertainment venues, zoos and cultural institutions, theaters and music festivals, and convention centers; as well as the Super Bowl, Grammy Awards, US Open Tennis Tournament, Kentucky Derby, Coachella and Stagecoach Music Festivals, and NHL, MLB, NBA, NFL, and MLS All-Star Games.

Media Contact

Mya Manibusan
mya@boldreuse.com

On any given day, about 1 in 31 hospital patients has at least one hospital-associated infection, according to the Center for Disease Control and Infection (CDC). Clothing, especially worn by healthcare professionals, is susceptible to a high level of contamination in a hospital setting. Yet shoes––which nearly 40% in a community setting contain traces of Clostridium difficile (C. diff)––are often overlooked as a contributor.

A new study conducted by Hospital Epidemiologist Victor R. Lange, found indisputable evidence of Gales® shoes being the only footwear proven effective against contamination in a healthcare setting. This groundbreaking research, published in a report available on Nurse.org, highlights Gales® as the only footwear that adequately removes contaminants from the shoe surface while preventing strike-through of harmful bacteria and disease.

Key study findings include:

1. Gales® Tops in Germ Removal & Prevention: The study analyzed eight footwear brands to determine their resistance against contamination. A staggering 7 out of these 8 shoes could neither effectively combat the strike-through of disease nor efficiently clear germs from their surfaces. Emerging as the singular standout, Gales® shoes showcased unparalleled efficiency in both protective and germ removal capacities. The brand's proprietary technology, distinctive design, and superior materials contributed to the highest scores in cleanliness and contamination reduction, both externally and internally.
   
   
2. Unbeatable Protection from Strike-Through: Beyond mere surface cleanliness, Gales® demonstrated unmatched capability in preventing contaminants from migrating from inside the shoe to the wearer’s sock. This feature is paramount, ensuring healthcare professionals are shielded from possible pathogens, thereby minimizing the risk of inadvertently transporting these pathogens outside the workplace.
   
   
3. Footwear: A Game Changer in Infection Control: Dr. Lange’s insightful research draws attention to the instrumental role footwear plays in infection control. The healthcare setting, prone to heightened risks of pathogen transmission, demands intensified scrutiny. The findings emphasize that even with rigorous cleaning and disinfection protocols in place, footwear remains a vulnerable point for pathogenic organisms to linger. This study serves as an urgent call for reconsidering footwear hygiene protocols in healthcare.

For those invested in safeguarding the health of our healthcare workers and ensuring the highest standards of infection control, Gales® shoes have established themselves as the unequivocal choice.

About Gales®

Gales® Founder and CEO, Rob Gregg, used his ten-plus years in footwear design and enlisted feedback from over 1,500 healthcare workers to create a lightweight, comfortable, and protective shoe at an affordable price point. For more information, visit https://www.weargales.com

Media Contact

Raquel Perez
raquel.perez@weargales.com

PunchLineDrop, an exciting comedy event featuring live music, is taking place on Friday, October 13th from 8 to 9:30 p.m. at White Gallery, located at 709 Coleman Blvd in Mount Pleasant, SC. This event will showcase comedians "Rollin" Jay Moore and Dave "Ugly" Evans with special guest MC Dede Bishop Kennedy. The audience will also be treated to live acoustic music by Chris Roberts.

"Rollin" Jay Moore started his career over 25 years ago at the Comedy Zone in Charleston, learning to perfectly execute his stand-up routine. As a result, he is now headlining major clubs and colleges across the country and has become a cruise-ship favorite.

Also on the bill is another comedy veteran, Dave "Ugly" Evans. Dave has worked clubs, colleges, and has spent years as a host of his own internet radio show "The Dave Ugly Show."

PunchLineDrop is presented by White Gallery, Soul Shine Studios, Fatty's Beer Works, Mail & More, EZ Newswire, and ARW&CO.

For additional information and to purchase tickets, please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/punchlinedrop-live-comedy-at-white-gallery-mount-pleasant-101323-tickets-723731720057.

Media Contact

Austin Walker
austin@arwandco.com

Model B has announced two new hires to strengthen its leadership team and provide outsized impact for clients.

Jeremy Hoders has been appointed Executive Director at Model B. With over 15 years of experience in business, creative strategy, and brand building, Hoders excels at solving complex business challenges that drive growth. In his new role, he will be responsible for leading client growth initiatives using marketing methodologies to deliver optimal impact and ROI. Before joining Model B, Hoders was the Group Account Director at DNA, working with well-known brands such as Swerve Sweetener, Pabst Beer, Catalina Marketing, Tableau, and Amazon. Working coast to coast, he has also partnered with brands such as Microsoft, Under Armour, Peloton, Totino's Pizza Rolls, Toaster Strudel, and Old El Paso. Hoders is excited to unlock growth opportunities for clients and the agency, and he looks forward to pushing boundaries and positively impacting clients' businesses.

"We’re super excited to have Jeremy joining the team. His understanding of how businesses operate and marketing acumen will be invaluable in helping the agency grow and provide exceptional impact for our clients," said Chris Perkins, President of Model B.

In addition, Model B has hired Dan Kuhlman as its new Media Director. With ten years of experience in the advertising space, Kuhlman brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the position. Joining Model B from Merkle, Kulhman has primarily worked in larger advertising agencies, with some publisher-side experience in programmatic and streaming audio channels.

Throughout his career, Kuhlman has worked with some of the world’s leading brands in the retail, financial services, healthcare, auto, and CPG verticals. His focus has been on integrated and performance marketing, with a focus on efficacy, agility, and tactical insights.

"Dan’s experience and expertise will be invaluable to our clients and agency. We look forward to seeing the great work he will produce in his new role," said Perkins.

Kuhlman is a transplant in Pittsburgh by way of Chicago. During Covid, he married and is now the proud father of a beautiful daughter, Millie (Amelia). Kuhlman loves to hike, travel, ski, sample local breweries, and watch soccer in his free time. He is also an open book and encourages anyone to start a conversation with him.

Hoders and Kuhlman have already proven their ability to provide smart new ways to help clients grow.

About Model B

Model B is a growth marketing agency that leverages modern marketing methodologies and the SaaS media platform Blueprint.tech to deliver data-informed, intelligent, sustainable business and brand impact. Working hand in hand with client teams, the agency Core Team defines the optimal pathway for marketing success and executes through a mixture of internal talent and external teams sourced from their global Partner Collective, assuring clients access to world-class resources at scale.

Media Contact

Chris Perkins
chris.perkins@modelb.com

Charleston Literary Festival announces an international partnership with renowned global news organization, The Guardian, to produce two sessions that will take place at the newly opened International African American Museum (IAAM) in Charleston, South Carolina, on November 12th—the tenth and final day of the 2023 Festival.

The first session, slated for 2 p.m. in the African Ancestors Memorial Garden outdoor exhibition space at IAAM, will feature former Guardian journalist Gary Younge, currently Professor of Sociology at the University of Manchester, in conversation with journalist Kerri Forrest, now Senior Program Director For Equity Centered Leadership and Philanthropy for MDC, a legacy nonprofit committed to equitable systems of change in the South, about his latest book "Dispatches from the Diaspora". Reflecting on three decades of his career as a journalist, the book “is a powerful collection of his writings on race, racism, and Black life and death” (The Guardian). It covers some of the most defining moments in recent history, including Nelson Mandela's election campaign in South Africa, Obama’s victory, the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, and the emergence of the Black Lives Matter movement.

“We are excited to partner with Charleston Literary Festival and The Guardian to create space for ambitious reading lists and conversations. Media is storytelling, and we live in an era grappling with the truly challenging stories of slavery and reconciliation. We hope the museum’s mission to champion the authentic, empathetic telling of untold stories of African American history will be a powerful spark to personal and community reflections on this year’s festival themes,” said Dr. Tonya M. Matthews, President and CEO of IAAM.

The second session at 4 p.m. will feature a panel of journalists involved in The Guardian’s major journalism series, "Cotton Capital", which explores the links that the newspaper’s founding editor and financial backers had with the transatlantic slave trade. Chaired by Dr. Bernard Powers, IAAM Board Member and Director of the College of Charleston's Center for the Study of Slavery (CSSC), this panel will explore the findings from an independent academic report commissioned by The Guardian, that found that the newspaper’s founder John Edward Taylor had links to transatlantic slavery through partnerships in Manchester’s cotton manufacturing and merchant firms that imported raw cotton produced by enslaved people in the Americas. Alongside Gary Younge, the panel will include Maya Wolfe-Robinson, editor of "Cotton Capital", and Lauren N. Williams, Deputy Editor for Race and Equity at Guardian US. The conversation will cover the legacy and continued impact of transatlantic slavery and ways to make reparations.

“One of the proposals laid out in the long-term programme of restorative justice is to help improve public understanding of transatlantic slavery’s ongoing impact, and debates around reparations and restorative justice through partnerships and programmes. As editor of The Guardian’s 'Cotton Capital' journalism series, we are committed to exploring how the connections between transatlantic slavery and The Guardian’s founders shaped Manchester, Britain, and the world, so we are proud to be partnering with Charleston Literary Festival to share some of these important, global conversations with communities in South Carolina,” said Maya Wolfe-Robinson, Guardian journalist and editor of "Cotton Capital".

The International African American Museum is located on the historically sacred grounds of Gadsen’s Wharf—one of North America’s most significant entry points in the transatlantic slave trade, serving as the arrival point for an estimated 40% of the enslaved Africans brought to the United States. Newly opened in Charleston on June 27, 2023, IAAM tells the untold stories of how Africans and African Americans—through their labor, resistance, and ingenuity—have shaped every aspect of our world.

"We are extremely proud of this partnership with The Guardian and IAAM, as it roots the global in the local. These sessions vividly spotlight the far-reaching effects and legacy of transatlantic slavery and provide an opportunity to highlight opportunities for us to move forward collectively,” added Sarah Moriarty, Executive Director, Charleston Literary Festival. 

Tickets for these two sessions and other featured sessions at Charleston Literary Festival, running from November 3rd to 12th, can be purchased now through the Charleston Literary Festival's website, charlestonliteraryfestival.com.

• Date: Sunday, November 12, 2023
• Program: https://www.charlestonliteraryfestival.com/program-2023
• Location: International African American Museum, 14 Wharfside St, Charleston, SC 29401

Tickets:

• Gary Younge with Kerri Forrest: https://charleston.boldtypetickets.com/events/143389629/gary-younge-with-kerri-forrest-dispatches-from-the-diaspora
• Maya Wolfe-Robinson, Lauren N. Williams, and Gary Younge: https://charleston.boldtypetickets.com/events/143389742/maya-wolfe-robinson-lauren-williams-and-gary-younge-cotton-capital-the-legacies-of-the-transatlantic-slave-trade

About Guardian Media Group

Guardian Media Group (GMG) is the publisher of theguardian.com, one of the largest English-speaking news websites in the world. Since launching its U.S. and Australian digital editions in 2011 and 2013, respectively, traffic from outside the UK now represents around two-thirds of the Guardian’s total digital audience.

Guardian US is renowned for its Pulitzer Prize-winning investigation into widespread secret surveillance by the National Security Agency and for other award-winning work, including The Paradise Papers. Guardian US has bureaus in New York, Los Angeles, and Washington, covering the climate crisis, politics, race and immigration, gender, and more.

About the International African American Museum

The International African American Museum (IAAM) explores the history, culture, and impact of the African American journey on Charleston, on the nation, and on the world, shining light and sharing stories of the diverse journeys, origins, and achievements of descendants of the African Diaspora. Across 11 galleries and a memorial garden with art, objects, artifacts, and multi-media interaction, IAAM is a champion of authentic, empathetic storytelling of American history. As a result, the museum will stand as one of the nation’s newest platforms for the disruption of institutionalized racism as it evolves today. The mission of IAAM is to honor the untold stories of the African American journey at the historically sacred site of Gadsden’s Wharf and beyond. For more information, please visit iaamuseum.org or call (843) 872-5352.

About Charleston Literary Festival

Charleston Literary Festival is a boutique literary festival that runs every November for ten days in Charleston, South Carolina. With roots in the Charleston House in the UK—home of the radical writers, artists, and thinkers of the Bloomsbury Group—Charleston Literary Festival is committed to maintaining an international perspective while championing literary excellence, building community, and fostering the next generation of writers and thinkers in South Carolina. An independent 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, previous attendees of the Festival include Brit Bennett, Geraldine Brooks, Tina Brown, Hernan Diaz, Eddie Glaude, Yaa Gyasi, Patrick Radden Keefe, Ian McEwan, Joyce Carol Oates, Imani Perry, George Saunders, Colm Tóibín, and Jeannette Winterson. For more information, visit charlestonliteraryfestival.com.

Media Contact

Sterling Eason, Eason Creative Studio

Email: sterling@easoncreative.com

Phone: 843-300-8879

Media Contact

Sterling Eason
sterling@easoncreative.com

On October 5, 2023, U.S. Fire Administrator, Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, will address the fire problem facing the country during the Phoenix World Burn Congress at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland. Media is invited to attend.

• What: "The Burn Survivors Role in One Voice: Uniting for a Safer Tomorrow" at the Phoenix World Burn Congress
• Who: Dr.  Lori Moore-Merrell, U.S. Fire Administrator
• When: October 5, 2023, 1:00 pm EST 
• Where: Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center: 201 Waterfront St, National Harbor, MD 20745 (Room Baltimore 1-2)

Last year, the U.S. Fire Administrator hosted the first Fire Prevention and Control Summit since the Conference on Fire Prevention and Control hosted by President Truman in 1947. The October 2022 summit included a roundtable discussion where national fire service leaders made five recommendations to national leaders from the Biden Administration. These recommendations now outline the national strategy to address the fire problem facing the nation. The summit kicked off a series of “Fire Stop One Voice” outreach events that unite the fire service to speak with one voice.

Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors is the leading connector for those affected by a burn injury, the primary resource for quality information and education, and the trusted authority for all in the burn community. Phoenix World Burn Congress is a bi-annual international conference that provides in-person and virtual education, support programs, and comprehensive resources for the burn community.

Phoenix Society and its curated speaker lineup will leverage the power of stories and shared experiences to shine a light on the collective strength of the burn community.

Speakers:

• Amy Acton, CEO, Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors
• Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, U.S. Fire Administrator
• Dr. Rob Cartotto, President, American Burn Association
• Ron Siarnicki, Executive Director, National Fallen Firefighters Foundation/First Responder Center for Excellence
• Lorraine Carli, VP Outreach and Advocacy, National Fire Protection Association
• Gina Russo, Burn Survivor Advocate from the Station Night Club Fire
• Rob Feeney, Burn Survivor Advocate from the Station Night Club Fire
• Tom Flamm, Burn Fund Coordinator, International Association of Firefighters Burn Foundation
• Vickie Pritchett, VP Advocacy & Outreach, National Fire Sprinkler Association

Click here for registration information and tickets to the Phoenix World Burn Congress. A brochure can be found here. A full schedule of events can be found here.

About Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors

For more than four decades, thousands of burn survivors, loved ones, healthcare professionals, and community allies have found comfort, support, and guidance—community—in the same place: Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors. Burn survivors and their loved ones face a lifelong journey of physical, emotional, and social recovery. Connecting with others who have walked a similar path is essential for optimal recovery and social reintegration. Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors is the leading connector for those affected by a burn injury, the primary resource for quality information and education, and the trusted authority for all in the burn community. Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Phoenix Society takes its name from the legendary bird consumed by flame but rises again, more vibrant than before. For more information, visit www.phoenix-society.org.

Media Contact

Rachel Kudlak

randerson@phoenix-society.org

Media Contact

Rachel Kudlak
randerson@phoenix-society.org

CMO Huddles, the leading marketing community dedicated to inspiring B2B greatness, in partnership with the Marketing Insider Group, announced today the completion of the first comprehensive study comparing AI-generated content to human-only content. The study, conducted between June and September 2023, showed that, at least for now, human-generated content significantly outperforms AI-generated content in terms of driving site visibility, keyword rankings, and site traffic.

Marketing Insider Group, led by visionary content expert Michael Brenner, conducted the keyword research that drove the topics selected for the study. With these keywords, this same team then created a total of 60 one-thousand-word blog posts divided evenly among three author types: human-only, AI-only using ChatGPT 3.5, and a hybrid of both. Shares Brenner, “We structured the test to be as unbiased as possible since most content creators need to understand the real business value of generative AI copy which we already know is amazingly fast.”

Over a 10-week period, the content was published on Renegade.com, a leading source of B2B marketing insights, 6 times a week, and its performance was tracked based on its ability to increase visibility, improve keyword rankings, and drive site traffic. The results showed that human-generated content significantly outperformed AI-generated content and outperformed the hybrid approach, demonstrating the unique power of human creativity and expertise. For the complete report, please click here.

Drew Neisser, Founder of CMO Huddles, commented on the results, saying, "The test reaffirms the value of human creativity and expertise in the B2B marketing landscape. While I have no doubt that these tools will get better and that marketers need to start using them now to gain experience, great content, content that resonates with your audience, will continue to originate from human experts and not bots.”

CMO Huddles' decision to conduct this groundbreaking test speaks to their commitment to providing the highest quality and most effective resources for B2B marketing leaders. Founded in 2020, CMO Huddles understands the biggest challenge faced by B2B CMOs is time. With this in mind, every aspect of CMO Huddles is designed to save CMOs time, enabling them to make faster, better, and more informed decisions. From expertly moderated peer-to-peer Huddles, an always-on Slack channel, arranged 1:1s, pithy weekly recaps, to unique PR opportunities, CMO Huddles brings together an elite cross-section of B2B marketing leaders, empowering them to share, care, and challenge each other to greatness.

Looking ahead, CMO Huddles continues to innovate and provide valuable resources to B2B CMOs. With a focus on supporting CMOs in transition and aspiring B2B CMOs, CMO Huddles offers both free and paid plan options. By joining the community of perpetually curious B2B marketing leaders at CMOHuddles.com, individuals can save themselves hours of searching for answers and gain access to a network of like-minded professionals dedicated to achieving greatness.

For more information about CMO Huddles and their mission to inspire B2B greatness, please visit https://cmohuddles.com.

For more information about the Marketing Insider Group and their content development programs, please visit http://marketinginsidergroup.com.

Media Contact

Drew Neisser
drew@cmohuddles.com

On September 28, Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman, head of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the voice in President Biden’s Cabinet for America’s 33 million small businesses, addressed the SBA’s Regional Regulatory Fairness Boards at their annual meeting and welcomed 17 newly appointed board members.

The board members Including Janna Patricia Rodriguez, founder Innovative Daycare—small business owners, operators or officers—engaged in discussion and shared concerns with Administrator Guzman, Deputy Administrator Dilawar Syed and agency leaders related to matters of federal regulatory issues for small businesses. At this meeting of the 10 Regional Boards, the first since 2020, 17 new members joined 20 current members, bringing diverse experiences, perspectives and business backgrounds to advance regulatory fairness. 

“I am pleased to grow our reach into small business communities with the expansion of the Regional Regulatory Fairness Boards. Our incredible volunteer small-business owners will serve as a valuable local resource for entrepreneurs experiencing challenges with federal regulatory enforcement or compliance actions,” said Administrator Guzman. “I appreciate the continued and new service of our dedicated board members who can provide insights and advice to SBA to help us better support small businesses as they navigate federal regulation.” 

The board members advise the National Ombudsman and Assistant Administrator for Regulatory Enforcement Fairness on small business matters related to federal regulatory enforcement actions and report instances of unfair, excessive enforcement actions taken by federal regulators. 

“The Regulatory Fairness Boards are a tremendous asset for the small-business community and the SBA. Now, with robust membership, including 37 board members coming from 21 states and 22 industries, we are better positioned to advance regulatory fairness,” said National Ombudsman Michele Schimpp. 

Additional information about the Regional Regulatory Fairness Boards can be found here.

Appointment terms are set for three years. Members of the advisory committee do not receive a salary, nor are they eligible to officially represent the SBA. Their selection does not connote an endorsement of their organizations. 

About the U.S. Small Business Administration

The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small-business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow and expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit sba.gov.

Media Contact

Janna Rodriguez
innovativedaycarecorp@gmail.com

Voosh.ai, a data-driven restaurant analytics platform that reduces order issues, increases sales and boosts delivery margins, announced today it welcomed PLNT Burger to its expanding clientele, marking a significant milestone in its journey of transforming the restaurant industry. Since onboarding, the restaurant has witnessed remarkable improvements in its dispute resolutions.

In an era where technology is reshaping the landscape of the U.S. restaurant industry, Voosh is leading the way by addressing the exponential growth of disputes as more customers embrace online food ordering. On average, 5 percent of all online orders result in disputes, translating to substantial revenue losses, directly impacting profitability and increasing customer churn. Voosh's unique platform harnesses the power of technology and data science to simplify and enhance restaurant operations, offering a strategic solution to this industry-wide issue.

PLNT Burger reported impressive results and a significant boost in their daily earnings, with a total of $480 (average per day of $69), with $370 still pending. Their win rate percentages for the weeks ending July 31 and August 7 stood at 17.5% and 61.29%, respectively.

"Voosh's Dispute Manager is a pivotal innovation for the restaurant industry, and we're thrilled to welcome PLNT Burger to our growing family of satisfied customers,” said Priyam Saraswat, CEO and Co-founder of Voosh. “The improvements in dispute resolution for PLNT Burger underscore the need for a standardized dispute process with third-party services like DoorDash, UberEats, Grubhub."

“We’ve gotten a lot of value out of the Voosh Dispute Management module already, and our resolution rate keeps going up without having to manually intervene in the dispute process,” said Ben Kaplan, Co-Founder and CEO of PLNT Burger. “We’re also enjoying Voosh's one-stop shop for our third-party marketplace data, and being able to segment and slice up that data within the platform, which has allowed us to make quick, highly informed decisions in optimizing these sales channels.”

For more information, please visit voosh.ai.

About Voosh.ai

Established in 2020, Voosh is a revolutionary solution in the restaurant industry, empowering operators to maximize their potential on third-party marketplaces. Born from a need for a unified data platform, Voosh's Restaurant Marketplace Intelligence Platform enhances operational efficiency, customer experience, and profitability. Backed by reputable venture capital funds, including Y Combinator, Voosh has helped over 200 restaurant locations grow their third-party sales by 20%. With a mission to provide clear, actionable insights for data-driven decisions, Voosh is committed to revolutionizing restaurant technology and shaping the future of the industry. Visit voosh.ai to learn more.  

About PLNT Burger

PLNT Burger is a quick service restaurant concept dedicated to crafting and redefining some of America’s favorite foods. With a focus on juicy, indulgent burgers, soft-serve, savory snacks, and seasonal salads, our mission is to give people the ability to Eat The Change with delicious foods they love and crave. PLNT Burger offerings are free of any animal products, without compromising flavor or experience.

Media Contact

Sara Schiffer
team@proof-pr.com

FAND, the leading collegiate athlete relationship management platform, today announced that it has successfully closed its pre-seed fundraise, led by Hivers and Strivers, an early stage VC investing in veteran founders. FAND manages and automates NIL campaigns and endorsements for marketing departments and their agencies. Unlike manual processes that lack scalability, FAND offers access to NIL-ready collegiate athletes who are available, experienced, responsive, and values-driven. With its cutting-edge technology, FAND aims to become the leading automated sports marketing cloud.

The completion of the pre-seed fundraise marks a significant milestone for FAND and showcases the company's commitment to revolutionizing collegiate sports marketing. By providing a streamlined platform for managing NIL campaigns, FAND eliminates the headaches associated with manual processes and offers marketing departments and agencies unparalleled access to college sports athletes. The company will provide as much information as possible for clients to make high-confidence decisions when selecting an athlete for a campaign.

According to Dominique Wright, Founder of FAND, "We are thrilled to announce the successful completion of our pre-seed fundraise. This milestone not only validates the value and potential of FAND but also strengthens our position as the leading automated sports marketing cloud. We are excited to continue empowering marketing departments and agencies with our innovative platform."

Looking ahead, FAND has ambitious plans to further enhance its automated sports marketing cloud. The company aims to expand its reach, forge strategic partnerships, and continuously innovate to provide marketers with the most effective tools and solutions in the industry.

To learn more about FAND and its pioneering approach to collegiate sports marketing, please visit https://fand.com/.

Media Contact

Dominique Wright
dominique@fand.com

Tide Laundromat, is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its third Chicago location in the North Riverside neighborhood. Located at 1730 S. Harlem Ave, North Riverside, IL 60546, this new facility revolutionizes the laundry experience. To celebrate the grand opening, Tide Laundromat invites the community to join them for a Free Wash Weekend on October 14 and 15.

"We are thrilled to open our third location in the beautiful North Riverside neighborhood," says Rich Kahan, Tide Laundromat Partner. 

"Our commitment to providing the best laundry experience is unwavering, and we can't wait to share it with the wonderful people of North Riverside. Join us for a weekend of celebration, free laundry, and a glimpse into the future of laundry services."

The grand opening weekend at the North Riverside location is packed with festivities and exclusive offers. Tide Laundromat is rolling out the red carpet with food, games, music and giveaways courtesy of WLEY’s La Ley 107.9, and a special treat for every guest – a free wash. 

Guests that visit that store over Free Wash Weekend are invited to download the Tide Laundromat App and enjoy a free wash. The Tide Laundromat app is easy to use with payment, rewards and additional offers right at the customer's fingertips. The App even allows guests to check washer and dryer availability before visiting the store.

Leave your laundry products at home. You get an amazing clean from brands you trust like Tide and Gain without the hassle of lugging your laundry products around. At Tide Laundromat, detergent, fabric softener, and dryer sheets are all included. Tide or Gain detergent and Downy or Gain fabric softener are automatically added via smart auto-dispensing washers, so all you have to do is make your selections and your clothes will be washed and dried in as little as 35 minutes. This innovative approach ensures a no mess, no guess laundry experience that fits into your busy day.

In addition to their cutting-edge laundry technology, Tide Laundromat offers an array of amenities to enhance the experience including free parking, wi-fi and air conditioning to make laundry day with Tide even more comfortable and easy.

Tide Laundromat's third location in North Riverside joins its two existing facilities in the Belmont Cragin and Rogers Park neighborhoods making it even more convenient for Chicago residents. Don't miss the grand opening of Tide Laundromat's North Riverside location on October 14 and 15, 2023. Experience the Tide difference with laundry that's fast, convenient, and effortless.

Tide Laundromat media kit can be found here.

When:

October 14–15, 2023

7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Where:

North Riverside Tide Laundromat

1730 S. Harlem Ave

North Riverside, IL 60546

Tide Laundromat Chicago Locations:

• North Riverside (*new*): 1730 S. Harlem Ave, North Riverside, IL 60546
• Belmont Cragin: 5027 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL 60639
• Rogers Park: 7558 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60645

About Tide Laundromat

For more than 70 years, Tide® laundry detergent has been caring for the clothes of American families. Tide Laundromat is an innovative extension of the Tide® brand, bringing our guests superior cleaning outside of the home.

Leave your laundry products at home. At Tide Laundromat, detergent, fabric softener, and dryer sheets are all included. Tide or Gain detergent and Downy or Gain fabric softener are automatically added via smart auto-dispensing washers, so all you have to do is make your selections and your clothes will be washed and dried in as little as 35 minutes. This innovative approach ensures a no mess, no guess laundry experience that fits into your busy day.

For more information on the Tide Laundromat business, visit www.tidelaundromat.com.

Media Contact

Sara Schiffer
team@proof-pr.com

Transfr, an emerging leader in virtual reality-based skills training for middle-skilled careers, announced a $40 million investment today. The Series C growth capital investment round was led by ABS Capital to further develop Transfr’s virtual reality (VR) simulation and training platform and to expand its programs to accommodate its rapidly growing customer base, which has more than doubled year over year from 2019-2023. JPMorgan Chase Impact Finance and Advisory joined the Series C round along with existing investors: Lumos Capital Group, who led the Series B; Akkadian Ventures, Spring Tide Capital, and Firework Ventures, who led the Series A; and Album, who led the Series Seed. This round brings the total investment in Transfr to over $90 million since its founding in 2017.

Middle-skills careers are defined as jobs that require more training and education than a high school diploma but less than a four-year college degree and are considered the backbone of America’s workforce. This category makes up more than half of the U.S. labor market, while only 43% of the labor force has the training required to fill these roles. The lack of training currently available to those looking to fill these jobs presents an opportunity for the private and public sectors to invest in solutions that make it easier to close the skill gap.

“About two-thirds of the American workforce do not have a college degree (1). There is a massive opportunity for both private and public entities to utilize VR training programs to create alternative pathways to employment,” said Bharani Rajakumar, Transfr founder and CEO, and Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Finalist. “This $40 million investment enables Transfr to continue to invest in undiscovered talent by developing more simulations and solutions to connect the classroom to career pathway with our partners in education and industry and hire the talent we need to scale and achieve our mission.”

Transfr’s mission is to scale access to quality education and employment for everyone, regardless of their background or location. The company developed an innovative VR-based platform, which hosts over 300 simulations that focus on careers that do not require a four-year degree. It has established a first-mover advantage in the Career Training and Education (CTE) market, with VR simulation training seeing $263 billion in global spending annually with an opportunity for rapid growth.

Transfr is now deployed in over 1,000 locations nationwide, including community colleges, trade schools, employers, prisons, and K-12 schools across Automotive, Aviation, Construction, Diesel, Electrical, Hospitality and Tourism, Manufacturing, and Healthcare. With this diverse industry set, Transfr has increased its user base by 10x over the last year, with trainees having completed over 400,000 simulations, helping incumbent workers, job-seekers, and students leverage the company’s virtual reality platform to build the skills needed to excel in middle-skills careers.

ABS Capital Partners Phil Clough will join Transfr’s board of directors, and Jennifer Krusius, also a Partner at ABS Capital, will serve as a board observer. Clough says, “We believe that Transfr and its experienced management team are uniquely positioned to capitalize on the tailwind from the challenges in the labor market by providing innovative training solutions that can efficiently bring qualified candidates to market.”

Krusius added, “Transfr’s VR platform offers a cost-effective alternative in the educational landscape that can reach many workforce candidates that otherwise would not have had access to this level of training and coaching.”

Transfr plans to leverage the capital investment to further build out its executive leadership team and scale its platform and impact, enabling more people to explore, learn, and connect with career opportunities in high-growth sectors such as manufacturing, skilled trades, and healthcare. The funding will also be used to invest in developing new training simulations that cover a wider range of skills and scenarios, as well as to enhance existing ones with more features, including offering training in Spanish.

If you are interested in bringing Transfr’s platform and services to your organization or community, please visit Transfr’s website or schedule a demo of the platform.

Footnote: (1) Scott, R. E., & Cooper, D. (2016, March 30). Almost two-thirds of people in the labor force do not have a college degree. https://www.epi.org/publication/almost-two-thirds-of-people-in-the-labor-force-do-not-have-a-college-degree/

About Transfr

Transfr is an emerging leader in virtual reality (VR) based vocational career exploration and pre-apprentice training. Transfr provides hands-on and immersive-simulation training for high growth in-demand careers that give real-world experience in the skills needed for job success, development, and retention. Using a headset, trainees are guided through simulations by a digital coach to engage in career exploration, job training, and practice and assessment use cases. Transfr’s innovative platform promotes ever-improving quality and lower development costs of VR simulations. For more information, please visit https://transfrinc.com/.

About ABS Capital

ABS Capital provides growth equity capital to B2B software and tech-enabled services businesses with strong technology and data underpinnings looking to scale with the right partners. Building growth-stage businesses has been ABS Capital’s focus for more than 30 years. Over that time, ABS Capital has invested more than $2.5 billion in approximately 130 companies across eight funds. Bringing investing, operational, infrastructure, technology, and business development skills to amplify the success of growing businesses together with data-driven business strategies, market research and analytics, ABS Capital works intensively in close partnership with talented management teams. ABS Capital: building emerging growth businesses into industry leaders. For more information, visit www.abscapital.com.

About Lumos Capital

Lumos Capital Group is an investment firm that focuses on dynamic growth-stage companies in the human capital development sector (education technology, workforce development, knowledge services). Lumos takes an active approach by committing time, network, and capital to accelerate their portfolio companies’ product leadership and international expansion and enabling them to achieve enduring market leadership. For more information, please visit www.lumoscapitalgroup.com.

Media Contact

Allie Mills
allie@salientmg.com

Sightly, the leader in real-time marketing and intelligence, announced that Jim Schneider, an investor in the company, current Operating Partner at Lead Edge Capital, Chairman of Horizon Bank Texas, and former Chief Financial Officer at Dell, has joined its Board of Directors. Schneider brings decades of corporate finance, M&A and investment experience to help guide Sightly in its growth stage. 

“Jim has long been an expert in finance, capital markets, accounting and strategic leadership and brings a wealth of knowledge to us from his experience at a major growth equity  fund, a multi-billion dollar publicly traded company and as a former partner of a Big Four accounting firm during his impressive career,” said Adam Katz, CEO of Sightly. “He will be an amazing partner for Sightly as we continue to innovate our patented Brand Mentality® platform and bring revolutionary AI-fueled intelligence and activations to digital advertisers and marketers across verticals.” 

“I have known Jim for a decade and his corporate and investor relationships are second to none. His strategic advice has been invaluable to Lead Edge Capital, its portfolio companies and the entrepreneurs running cutting-edge startups,” said Ralph Mack, Sightly’s Executive Chairman. “Jim’s knowledge, vision, and expertise will be important as Sightly expands its tech-enabled media services business and its emerging AI-driven real-time self-service software platform.”

“Sightly is an innovative company and its platform is a game-changer for both enterprises and growth businesses that want  to future-proof their advertising and marketing,” said Schneider. “I’m really looking forward to working with the Sightly team and fellow board members to help the company grow and achieve its BHAGs.”

Schneider has been with Horizon Bank Texas since 2007 and Lead Edge Capital since 2012. He also currently serves on the boards of Lohman Technologies and Polished.com Inc. His diverse board and advisory experience includes GCI Liberty, Zilliant, Inc., The Gap, and Lockheed Martin. He holds a B.S. degree in Accounting from Carroll University and was inducted into its Athletics Hall of Fame in 2009.

About Sightly

Sightly is the leader in real-time marketing and intelligence, as driven by each brand's unique perspective, opinions and outcomes. Our revolutionary Brand Mentality® platform combines speed with values, so companies can make advertising and marketing decisions instantly and authentically without sacrificing ROI. Learn more and master the mayhem at http://www.sightly.com.

Media Contact

Robert Helstrom
rocket@sightly.com

Modernist and MetaBurnett's DeMODE was more than a spectacle; it was a game-changer. Hosted during the 15th anniversary of Nolcha Shows at New York Fashion Week (NYFW) on September 10, 2023, DeMODE delivered a jaw-dropping fusion of fashion, art, and groundbreaking technology, captivating both the industry and audiences.

The Afterglow of Nolcha Shows

As a highlight of Nolcha Shows' 15-year celebration at Mercedes-Benz Manhattan, DeMODE wasn't merely an attraction but a transformative experience, setting new standards in fashion technology.

A Revolutionary Experience

The event revolutionized audience engagement through NFC-enabled garments, unlockable 3D content, and a digital token ecosystem. This web3 innovation was fueled by R-Pac’s Twin Tag Technology, powered by MetaBurnett and AlphaA.io.

Kelly Max, Founder and Creative Maverick of Modernist:

"DeMODE exceeded our wildest expectations. Thanks to Emily Burnett and our invaluable partners like AlphaA.io, R-Pac, BitBasel, SpaceBlue, Lunaprise, DCG Media, Fashion Mingle, Global Luxury, and Total Trends Intl, we have shown the world our boundless creativity."

Emily Burnett, Founder & CEO of MetaBurnett:

"Thanks to our designers and partners for making DeMODE a groundbreaking moment for fashion and technology. We have turned this into a cultural movement, and we're only just beginning."

The Galaxy of Talent

Esteemed designers like Romeo Hunte, Pamela Dennis, and Renee Cafaro Atelier Public Label combined forces with emerging stars such as Designs by Outer, Merci Dupre, Ms. Jaxn Designs, Robin Hoodd, 1. Cre ar+, Yola Colón, Teddy McRitchie Designs, and Stephanie Dillon, captivating every spectator and ensuring the spotlight remained fixed on the showcase.

Elevating the design spectacle, DeMODE's allure was heightened by the hairstyling genius of celebrity hairdresser Ted Gibson and the makeup artistry of Buffy Hernandez. Their curation, inspired by Modernist Art, infused the event with an unmatched level of quality and panache.

Complementing this galaxy of talent, DeMODE was further enriched by our showcase partners: DCG Media, Fashion Mingle, Global Luxury, and Total Trends Int. Their invaluable contributions crafted a uniquely curated experience, setting a new standard for New York's fashion elite.

A Cosmic Success

Modernist's art is set for an unprecedented lunar journey as part of the Lunaprise Moon Museum, curated by SpaceBlue and set to be transported via a SpaceX Falcon 9 Rocket. DeMODE is quite literally reaching for the stars.

What's Next?

Modernist is eyeing MIAMI Art Week, launching the first-ever MOOON.PARTY in collaboration with Soundromeda, BitBasel, and Art with Me. "From the runway to the Milky Way, we're looking forward to making history with artists, tastemakers, moon aficionados, and space lovers. We have something very special and one-of-a-kind in the making." says Kelly Max.

Emily Burnett: "If you thought DeMODE was the zenith, you're in for a surprise. We're far from done."

For more details about the DeMODE creators and the broader Nolcha Shows experience, please explore Modernist and MetaBurnett and read the article on nolchashows.com.

Press Contact

Kelly Max 

Email: kelly@solvv.com

Emily Burnett

Email: emily@metaburnett.com

Media Contact

Kelly Max
kelly@solvv.com

Transitiv, a leading provider of collaborative analytics and data infrastructure solutions for franchise brands, is pleased to announce its ranking as the 5th top technology supplier in Entrepreneur Magazine's prestigious "Franchise Top Supplier" list.

"We are honored to be recognized for our commitment to providing robust, scalable solutions that empower franchises to optimize their operations," said Christian Pillat, CEO of Transitiv. "This accolade is a testament to our team's dedication and the strong partnerships we've built within the franchise community."

About Transitiv

Transitiv specializes in offering cutting-edge analytics and data infrastructure services. Our platform enables franchise brands to make data-driven decisions, streamlining operations, and maximizing ROI. Our solutions are designed to be collaborative, ensuring seamless communication and operational efficiency across the franchise network.

About Entrepreneur Magazine's Franchise Top Supplier List

The Entrepreneur Magazine's "Franchise Top Supplier" list is an annual ranking that celebrates the best suppliers in various industries. The list is compiled based on various criteria, including innovation, leadership, and performance, and aims to guide franchise brands in selecting the most reliable partners for their business.

Company Contact

For more information, please contact:

Christian Pillat

CEO, Transitiv

Email: christian@transitiv.io

Phone: (678) 839-7355

Media Contact

Matt German
matt.german@transitiv.io

Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors, the leading national nonprofit supporting burn survivors, announces the return of its foundational event, Phoenix World Burn Congress. The Phoenix World Burn Congress (WBC) is the world's largest gathering of burn survivors, their families, burn care professionals, and the fire service industry. This year’s conference will run October 4–7, 2023, at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, MD.  

Launched in 1985, Phoenix WBC was developed by burn survivors, for burn survivors, to identify and understand issues impacting the daily lives of those who have experienced burn trauma. Since then, the event has drawn more than 20,000 attendees to more than 20 locations. Phoenix WBC is now a bi-annual international conference providing in-person and virtual education, support programs, and comprehensive resources for the burn community.   

This year’s long-anticipated event will be held in person for the first time since 2019 after being conducted virtually during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The reimagined format includes a diverse mix of learning sessions, speakers, and other events for burn survivors of all ages, their loved ones and caregivers, and the broader burn community. The exciting lineup of speakers and events includes Aaron Volpati, burn survivor, author, coach, and retired player with the Washington Capitals. Aaron will officially kick off the event with his "HARD SH*T, FINDING GRIT, AND KICKING A$$" keynote address. The event also features speakers from key sponsors MedStar Washington Hospital Center, the only adult burn treatment center in the Washington Metropolitan area, and the DC Firefighters Burn Foundation, covering topics such as burn scar treatment, the healing journey, and managing post-traumatic stress.  

 "We are so excited to have this event so close to home,” said Jeffrey Shupp, MD, director of the Burn Center at MedStar Washington Hospital Center. “This is an amazing opportunity for our patients, staff, and community. So much of the recovery from burn injury happens after discharge from burn centers, and Phoenix Society has led the way in this space.” 

Phoenix WBC is one component of the organization’s larger initiative, the Journey Forward Program. This initiative unites all of Phoenix Society’s resources and services to provide a seamless, personalized approach to lifelong support for every burn survivor, their caregivers, and service providers. It is designed to guide survivors along their entire path to recovery, offering tools, resources, and support for physical, emotional, and social healing at each stage. 

Phoenix WBC is notable for its unique ability to bring the burn community together for education, support, and connection. For many burn survivors, it is the first time they will connect with others who have also experienced burn trauma and recovery. Many lifelong friendships and even a marriage have their foundation at Phoenix WBC! 

Other featured highlights at this year’s Phoenix WBC include a wellness and vendor fair, meet-up and peer support group sessions, and a first-time attendee gathering to help newcomers make the most of their experience at the conference. The four-day conference ends with the Walk of Solidarity and a community celebration, uniting the entire community in supporting those experiencing loss from a burn injury. Formerly known as the Walk of Remembrance, the walk will begin at the Gaylord National Convention Center and proceed through the Marina Promenade to the Gaylord Pier. 

Registration for Phoenix WBC 2023 is now open. To register and find more information about the event venue, schedule, and speakers, visit https://www.phoenix-society.org/phoenix-wbc/. 

About Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors

Burn survivors and their loved ones face a lifelong physical, emotional, and social recovery journey. Connecting with others who have walked a similar path is essential to optimal recovery and social reintegration. Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors is the leading national nonprofit dedicated to empowering burn survivors and their families at all healing points. Since 1977, Phoenix Society has worked with survivors, families, healthcare professionals, and first responders to support burn recovery, improve the quality of burn care, and prevent burn injuries. For more information, visit www.phoenix-society.org.

Media Contact

Rachel Kudlak
randerson@phoenix-society.org