Tag: Safety

ioAirFlow Announces New COVID-19 Risk Assessment Solution for Schools

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Canadian startup’s focus on air quality, COVID-19 transmission risk mitigation in response to international calls for better monitoring in buildings

Press Release
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Jan 18, 2022

WINNIPEG, Manitoba, January 18, 2022 (Newswire.com)
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In response to the rapid spread of the COVID-19 Omicron variant, Canadian data intelligence company ioAirFlow is heeding the call from health organizations worldwide for better building ventilation monitoring to mitigate the transmission risk of COVID-19 in schools.

Founded in 2016, Winnipeg, Canada-based ioAirFlow was launched on the premise of improving air quality, efficiency and performance gaps in commercial buildings. The company’s solution includes a rapidly deployable and affordable test solution that can run in virtually any building worldwide.

Their most current building performance monitoring platform provides detailed and actionable analysis specific to CO2 monitoring and ventilation efficacity, with a focus on identifying areas of higher transmission risk of COVID-19 and other airborne infectious diseases.

“There has never been a more critical time to improve air quality and reduce COVID-19 transmission risk”, said ioAirFlow CEO Matt Schaubroeck. “In North America, it is widely accepted that buildings and workplaces with poor indoor air quality accelerate the spread of airborne diseases like COVID-19 due to inadequate ventilation and outdated mechanical and HVAC systems.”

Last month, a study from the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology indicated that “poorly ventilated school classrooms record up to six times as many COVID-19 cases compared with those which are regularly aired.”

In response, major health and building standards organizations, including the Centre for Disease Control and the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) have released international pleas for more trending and monitoring of ventilation, temperature, and humidity levels in schools and classrooms to mitigate risk of airborne pathogen transmission.

“We wanted to test our district’s schools to ensure that our space was safe for students and teachers”, said Tim Stefanishyn, Superintendent of the Whiteshell School District. “ioAirFlow’s data analysis allowed us to understand how the buildings’ ventilation systems were operating and what we could do to improve the indoor air quality of the spaces.”

Since launching its platform in June 2021, ioAirFlow has been implemented in numerous buildings across North America, including a growing number of schools. The newest releases aim to enable buildings not currently equipped with permanent building monitoring systems to monitor indoor environmental quality and efficiency metrics and make smarter and safer building improvements.

“The lack of data available around air quality in schools is a significant barrier to having students and teachers back to a safe in-person learning environment”, said Albert Behr, industry-leading technology commercialization expert. “The solution developed by ioAirFlow is a much-needed technology application to bring reliable and affordable air quality data to buildings that desperately need it to navigate the realities of living in the COVID-19 pandemic.”

About ioAirFlow

ioAirFlow’s digital analysis platform identifies indoor environmental quality issues in commercial buildings including performance, energy efficiency, and air quality measurements. Using wireless sensors and a proprietary data analysis platform, the company identifies building problems faster and more accurately than manual energy audits, and at a fraction of the cost of permanent monitoring solutions.

Source: ioAirFlow

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January 18, 2022
Over the River and Through the Woods: Distracted Drivers Present New Dangers This Holiday Season

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Press Release
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Dec 8, 2021

SACRAMENTO, Calif., December 8, 2021 (Newswire.com)
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Today, Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) and Root Insurance call all motorists to prioritize safety during this holiday season when crashes can be on the rise due to various distractions inside the vehicle.

Data from the California Highway Patrol shows that car crashes continue to be a leading cause of death for teens ages 16-24 in the Golden State. A Zogby poll, commissioned by Root and SADD, shows that 64% of Californians are concerned about roadway safety, specifically distracted driving and its threat to their safety. The study further indicates that 64% of parents with children under 17 believe the problem has grown worse over the past several years.

December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, a nationwide observance to call attention to the public health crisis of roadway fatalities. While we typically think of impairment as behavior related to drugs and alcohol, distractions inside the car present similar dangers for all roadway users. SADD works with a coalition of partners across the state to raise awareness on these issues with funding from the California Office of Traffic Safety and the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. SADD chapters in middle schools, high schools, and college campuses will hold awareness events for teens and parents throughout the week. SADD will feature the Passport for Safe Driving, a resource developed in partnership with National Road Safety Foundation to assist parents in coaching their teens to be safer drivers.

“Distractions, impairment, speed, recklessness, lack of seat belt, and inexperience — these behaviors are the leading causes of teen crashes in California, and they are 100% preventable,” said Rick Birt, President & CEO of SADD. “We’re honored to join with Root Insurance to raise awareness of these behaviors and what teens and adult allies can do to prevent crashes and save lives this holiday season.”

“Californians are right to be concerned with the real dangers posed by distracted driving,” said Kathy Mitchell, Director of Government Affairs for Root, Inc. “One innovative solution supported by California drivers is to tie the driving ability to insurance rates so that drivers are incentivized to drive safely with lower rates. We know which tools will make our roads safer. We just need to implement them. Californians can rest assured SADD is working tirelessly to deliver results.”

Resources for students, parents, and community-members can be found on the SADD website at www.sadd.org or your favorite social media platform.

About SADD
For 40 years, SADD, the nation’s premier youth health safety organization, has worked to empower teens, engage parents, mobilize communities, and change lives around the issues of traffic safety, substance abuse, and personal health and safety. Through a national network of peer-led chapters in middle schools, high schools, and colleges, SADD equips students with the resources they need to advocate for change in their communities.

Source: Students Against Destructive Decisions

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December 8, 2021
Austin Pets Alive! | APA! Steps Up for Pets from Laredo Shelter,…

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Jun 29, 2021

AUSTIN, TX – Austin Pets Alive! (APA!) is asking people to help at-risk pets in crowded Texas animal shelters. APA!’s Town Lake Animal Center is currently at capacity. APA! is asking the Central Texas community to foster, adopt, volunteer or donate so APA! can continue helping dogs, puppies, cats and kittens with the greatest medical and behavioral needs.

Laredo Animal Care Services reached out to American Pets Alive!, APA!’s education and outreach division, to help out with its overpopulation. American Pets Alive! responded to their request and just sent this video. Dozens of cats and kittens are being rescued right now and need foster homes within the next 24 hours. Anyone able to foster a cat or kitten is asked to please email [email protected].

At the Laredo shelter’s request, American Pets Alive! traveled to the shelter not only to provide rescue and transport, but to train the Laredo staff on sanitation practices and community engagement programs. The American Pets Alive! team is on the way back to Austin now bringing some of the pets to safety, to treat medical needs and get every single pet directly into a foster home as fast as possible. You can find out more about the current state of the Laredo Animal Care Services facility here.

Austin Pets Alive! And American Pets Alive! are grateful to partners at Texas shelters who know that these animals are escaping dangerous environments.

While we know these pets will be saved from euthanasia, the rest of their future is uncertain. Rush a donation today to ensure they make it into loving arms.

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June 29, 2021
Austin Pets Alive! | Heat Safety Tips for Pets
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May 25, 2021

As we Austinites know, Texas summer heat is real – and sweltering hot.

With most summer days reaching at least 90 degrees in Austin, Texas, Austin Pets Alive! is alerting pet owners to exercise caution on these brutally hot days. Temperatures like these can be very dangerous for pets, especially dogs, leading to dehydration and in some cases, death.

As we ease into the summer months, be sure to follow these helpful pointers:
- Check the pavement before going on a walk. Place your hand on it for 10 full seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them. Know the signs – lagging is the number one sign that your dog is too hot.
- Water, water, water! Let your pet go for a swim in cool water and make sure they are staying hydrated. Getting your pet wet is the best way to speed up the cooling process.
- Keep an eye on your pet’s tongue and eyes. Red eyes and a tongue hanging very far out of a dog’s mouth is an indication that they are overheating.
- Limit outdoor activity. Take short walks in shaded areas or consider taking an evening stroll.
- Do NOT leave your pet in the car, not even for a short period of time. Did you know that on a 95-degree day, your car is actually degrees?
There are other summer heat tips that are less commonly heard about but are just as important such as supervising your pet in the pool. To avoid a dangerous situation, consider fencing off or covering your pool for when you aren’t home. Another tip to keep in mind is that when grooming your pet, avoid cutting their hair too short. Their fur helps combat sunburns and regulate body temperature. For these upcoming summer months, pet sunscreen is a great investment – we bet you didn’t know it was a thing!

Dogs most susceptible to heatstroke are overweight dogs, dogs with long fur, short nose dogs, senior dogs, and those who have lung or breathing issues. It’s important to remember that dogs only sweat through their mouth, feet, and ears, which is why they suffer from heat exhaustion faster than humans. So, even though you may be tolerating the heat, your dog may be suffering.

To help keep pet safety top of mind at a popular Austin-outdoor fave location, we’ve posted signage around the trail looping Lady Bird Lake. Thank you to Rocket Banners, a company that generously donated the print of these heat safety signs reminding trail-goers to keep their pets safe. Be on the lookout for those tips and warnings!

Austin Pets Alive! wants to keep all pet lovers informed and our furry friends safe from the ravaging heat! Follow our friendly tips and refer back when needed for a fun, safe summer!

We have an important PSA while we have your attention! While scooping the poop may not seem important, and at times pretty gross, it is crucial to the health and safety of our community. Just to put things into perspective, there are over 250,000 dogs in Austin, which in turn creates 150,000 pounds of poop per day. And now, more than ever before, we each have an obligation to care for, and look after, the health and safety of our neighbors and fellow Austinites. Click here to learn more!
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May 25, 2021
The iGPS Wizard Watch: Trusted by Parents, Loved by Kids

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Two fathers teamed up to create a proactive approach to safety – and their kids approve

Press Release
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updated: Aug 2, 2019

FORT MYERS, Fla., August 2, 2019 (Newswire.com)
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All parents know that there’s absolutely no greater priority than the safety and security of their child. That’s why fathers, and brothers, Dallas and Anthony Vasquez teamed up to create the iGPS Wizard Watch. It’s a wearable tracking and communication device that provides invaluable peace of mind to parents, knowing they can locate, contact, monitor, and protect their child when they’re away from home.

The iGPS Wizard Watch is cellular, GPS, and WiFi-enabled, and works seamlessly with the accompanying parent app. Parents will enjoy consistent, reliable coverage and rest easy knowing their child’s whereabouts at all times. Meanwhile, the other benefit of the iGPS Wizard Watch is that it’s really empowering for children. It gives them a newfound sense of independence to safely explore the world around them.

“I’m so proud of this technology and hope that other parents value it as much as my own family does,” said Dallas Vasquez, CEO, iGPS Watch. “My kids are growing up fast, and I can’t always be right beside them, but knowing they’re safe, and having the ability to reach each other with the touch of a button, has really been a game-changer for us.”

The iGPS Wizard Watch is currently available in five popular colors and comes ready to go with a pre-installed SIM card. The playful touchscreen interface and colorful, comfortable wristband makes it enjoyable to wear.

Features of the iGPS Wizard Watch include:

Parents can pinpoint their child’s current location with live GPS tracking to give them more freedom during playtimes or that added layer of protection when traveling through crowded spaces. Parents will appreciate continuous notifications regarding the locations and activities of their children.

All parents know that children tend to wander. With the GPS geofencing feature, parents can create “Safe Play” and “Stay Away” zones, and will receive an alert if their child ventures out of the designated safe area.

Parents are never more than a call away from their children. The accompanying parent app also allows parents to add up to 11 phone numbers that their child can call.

Parents can use voice and text messaging to reach their child anytime, anywhere.

In case of an emergency, the child can push the one-touch SOS Button. This will alert their parents of their exact location and activate the emergency contact auto-dialer, which will begin calling the contacts on their call list. If the watch is ever removed, parents will receive a removal alert immediately.

The “Take Me Home Mapping” feature will guide the child safely home with step-by-step directions.

The iGPS Wizard Watch helps foster a sense of responsibility and helps keep kids on track with their daily routines. Parents can use the watch’s scheduler feature to set reminders that can be checked off once completed.

The iGPS Wizard has a built-in pedometer that counts the child’s steps each day. This is an excellent way to promote a healthy, active lifestyle. The device history is also stored for seven days to help parents monitor changes in their child’s daily routines.

The iGPS Wizard Watch retails for $119.95, and there is a one-time activation fee of $15. After that, service is $14.95 a month and does not require a contract. iGPS provides complete customer care and a frustration-free experience.

About iGPS Wizard Watch
The iGPS Wizard Watch is a wearable tracking and communication device designed for children 3-13 years old. It lets parents contact, locate, monitor, and protect their loved ones when they’re away from home. Parents can pinpoint their child’s current location with live GPS tracking, and use voice and text messaging and two-way calling to reach their child anytime, anywhere. For more information, visit www.igpswatch.com and follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest for the latest news and trends.

Source: iGPS Watch

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August 2, 2019
The Virtual Summer Camp to Keep Kids … Smarter. Safer. Social!

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Press Release
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updated: Feb 26, 2019

SHELBY, N.C., February 26, 2019 (Newswire.com)
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It’s no secret that parents worry about their kids’ social media involvement. Here is a virtual summer camp that gets kids involved in their own online safety, engaging safely and directly with a newly patented online platform. As part of their commitment to best practices in every industry, this program is endorsed by the National Institute for Social Media and provides a fun learning environment structured for age brackets 10-18. ImageSAFE gives attendees three weeks of engagement and support, so ‘campers’ can experience how online image is affected through their own participation.

The platform is a direct experience for kids to explore profile structure, social posts and online interaction. With extensive tools implemented to give access to digital learning and reporting, ImageSAFE has collaborated with industry experts to offer virtual campers and their parents an online experience that will provide heightened safety going forward in social media. In fact, attendees and their parents may receive ongoing support and education long after camp ends.

ImageSAFE is designed for real-time teen social learning. Kids can participate in the virtual experience from anywhere. With backgrounds in production and education, the team at ImageSAFE is able to see and fill the gap in social education for our youth. The virtual summer camp offers a full dashboard with access to modules, discussion boards, chat rooms, an interactive app, video presentations and more. ImageSAFE combines safety with savvy to give kids a better social experience!

Offering two sessions in 2019: July 14 through Aug. 3, Aug. 4 through Aug. 24. Registration opens March 1. Information & Registration: www.SafeImage.online

Media image link:

http://bit.ly/2NoC0Fe

www.SafeImage.online

www.VirtualSummer.camp

Ten tags to follow:

Teens, Kids, Summer, Camp, Social, Media, Online, Virtual, Safety, Influence

# # #

ImageSAFE virtual summer camp gives attendees three weeks of engagement and support, so ‘campers’ can experience how online image is affected through their own participation. Endorsed by the National Institute for Social Media, ImageSAFE has partnered with industry experts to provide extensive tools for digital learning and reporting. Our team has put together a patented online experience with access to modules, discussion boards, chat rooms, an interactive app, video presentations and more. ImageSAFE combines safety with savvy to give kids a better social experience.

Dates:

Two sessions in 2019: July 14 through Aug. 3, Aug. 4 through Aug. 24. Registration opens March 1st. Information & Registration: www.SafeImage.online

Contact:

Melissa Mathews, PR/Marketing
mmathews.email@gmail.com
(828) 545-2511

Source: ImageSAFE

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February 26, 2019
World First Safety Device to Combat Michigan’s Violence Ranking

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Press Release
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updated: Nov 27, 2018

DETROIT, November 27, 2018 (Newswire.com)
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“Detroit’s recent listing by the FBI as the second most violent big city in the U.S.* should give its citizens a wakeup call,” says entrepreneur Stephenie Rodriguez, who launched a world first safety device and smartphone application to empower those who feel vulnerable when commuting or traveling. “When you also consider Michigan has a further three cities in the top ten most dangerous cities for women**, something has to be done about it and until that day comes, you need to take responsibility for your own personal safety. I believe the best way to do this is with a non-violent solution.”

“I have traveled to more than half the 50 states and to 54 countries. I know what it feels like to be in danger. This anxiety motivated me to invent the WanderSafe Smart 1, a non-violent device the size of a key ring that pairs seamlessly with a smartphone app and puts help in your hand.”

I have travelled to more than half the 50 states and to 54 countries. I know what it feels like to be in danger. This anxiety motivated me to invent WanderSafe Smart 1, a non-violent device the size of a key ring that pairs seamlessly with a smartphone app and puts help in your hand.

Stephenie Rodriguez, WanderSafe Inventor and CEO

Created in collaboration with retired CIA executive and author, Thomas Pecora, WanderSafe Smart 1 incorporates the three characteristics that Pecora says will heighten your safety: information, environmental awareness and easy-to-use equipment.

The non-violent device’s four features are designed to disorient and scare an assailant, giving you enough time to save your life. Designed for easy handling, when pressed, the activation button sends an SOS message and GPS coordinates to three friends or colleagues to take action and can be activated with a pinkie. Also incorporated in the device is a patent-pending twist to activate the 140-decibel personal alarm, a piercing strobe light to disorient the assailant, and a wide blinding lumen light for lighting up a potentially unsafe situation.

Pecora’s two decades of experience with the CIA saw him deployed to terrorist hot spots around the world. “One of our main focuses was the safety of our employees, and real-time information was always key. That’s why a soon-to-be-released WanderSafe update will provide users with real-time safety info curated to the user’s needs, as well as useful and location relevant travel tips.”

This software update will see WanderSafe analyzing data from trusted sources such as law enforcement agencies. Also in development is a report feature whereby users can report crimes or illicit activity anonymously to CrimeStoppers. This feature comes on the back of WanderSafe signing a three-year partnership with CrimeStoppers International, which was solidified at The Hague in October 2018.

WanderSafe Smart 1 is also a welcome security device for employers who have a duty of care towards the safety of their employees, with child care centers and real estate/property management firms flocking to purchase devices for their staff from Canada to Australia.

“The Real Estate industry has been grappling with this challenge for a number of years,” said Vantage Strata Managing Director, Chris Miller. “This problem has been well-publicized in the context of property managers, often young women, who attend routine inspections with people who are unknown to them. I bought one for my entire staff.”

The device retails for $79.95. It is available to buy now for $40 on the Indiegogo platform with immediate delivery in time for holiday gifting.

MEDIA INFO: Drew Lambert or Zac Cooper | DL COMMS | contactus@dlcomms.com.au | +612 8091 4400

IMAGES: http://www.dlcomms.com.au/wandersafe-presskit

* FBI’s 2017 Uniform Crime Report

** Forbes: America’s most dangerous cities for women

Source: WanderSafe LTD

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November 27, 2018
On Halloween, a Ghoulishly Good Deal: Free Cab Rides Home in Oakland

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Press Release
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updated: Oct 24, 2018

OAKLAND, Calif., October 24, 2018 (Newswire.com)
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Wherever people choose to spend Halloween night in Oakland, there will be no shortage of entertaining activities to choose from. They could go to a themed dance party by the waterfront, see the defending world champion Golden State Warriors put a scare into the New Orleans Pelicans or laugh the night away at the Halloween Hullabaloo standup comedy show. When the night is over, help Gillin, Jacobson, Ellis, Larsen & Lucey (GJELL) keep danger off the road by joining the Drink and Alive Free Cab Ride Program.

In Oakland and the other cities that make up Alameda County, 68 people were injured in traffic collisions last year on Halloween or the day after. One of those people died.

Auto injuries are always preventable. Let’s all do our part to make the streets in Oakland safer on Halloween.

Andy Gillin, GJELL partner

“Auto injuries are always preventable. Let’s all do our part to make the streets in Oakland safer on Halloween,” said GJELL partner Andy Gillin.

The program is simple. Register as a Free Cab Ride Program participant at GJEL.com/free, then pay for the ride up front. GJELL will reimburse the cost.

Participants must be 21 or older. The offer is valid for a single one-way ride to a safe destination in Oakland and other Bay Area cities. Rides starting on Wednesday, Oct. 31, at 5 p.m. and ending Thursday, Nov. 1, at 10 a.m. are eligible for reimbursement up to $25. One reimbursement per household is allowed.

After the event, GJELL will send online instructions to participants for reimbursement to a valid PayPal account.

About GJEL Accident Attorneys

GJEL Accident Attorneys is a San Francisco Bay Area law firm representing plaintiffs in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases since 1972. More information is available at gjel.com and our Oakland office page.

Contact:

Casey Meraz
(925) 253-5800
casey@gjel.com

Source: Gillin, Jacobson, Ellis, Larsen & Lucey

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October 24, 2018
Trinity Security Allies & Church Safety

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Press Release
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updated: Jun 8, 2017

Waynesville, NC, June 8, 2017 (Newswire.com)
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Are you prepared for the dangers that your house of worship faces today? Threat profiling – ways to make your church a safer place.

Jim Howard, a 35-year police veteran and principal with Trinity Security Allies, will make a presentation this Saturday, June 10th at Cornerstone Fellowship Church, 224 Barber Hill Drive, Waynesville, NC 28786. Mr. Howard started his law enforcement career in 1975 with the Norfolk Police Department in Norfolk, VA, and has been in law enforcement either sworn or working for the private sector all his adult life. Jim was with the Norfolk Police Department for 26 years, retiring from there as a Sergeant.

“There is so much value in raising awareness about an everyday threat facing our churches.”

Ed Klaameyer, Congregation President

How do you determine a threat has walked into your church?

Jim’s focus on church safety is that everyone must understand that the church’s key role is to enlarge the Kingdom of God. Jim explains how, by using a combination of time-tested, current trend profiling and behavior-patterning analysis staff, volunteers and members will be able to determent if a person needs help or is a threat to the church. Jim teaches churches to be prepared in today’s uncertain times for every dangerous situation that may come into their church, business, their home and their everyday life.

After becoming the safety team coordinator for Generations Christian Church, Jim started offering safety training to other churches for no cost throughout the Tampa Bay area. Right now, Jim is still working with over 40 churches in the Tampa Bay area, several in North Carolina and South Carolina. Jim holds monthly meetings where he and the other churches talk about current events that would affect a church’s safety and best practices on keeping churches safe.

Jim’s training educates church members, staff and volunteers in situational awareness, where they will look for warning sign, or red flags. He trains them to recognize the danger signs of a disruptive attendee, domestic violence or the possibility of an active shooter, and to alert others that may be able to stop something before it happens. Jim works through ways on how to prepare for those types of situation, to be able to slow down the threat until help can arrive. This threat profiling training is valuable for their staff, volunteers and members of the church and gives them the tools to see a threat before it turns dangerous, and ways to survive during the incident at the church, work, home or at play.

“Our church brought Jim in to educate our church staff, and we learned so much more that 6 weeks later, we opened our facility to the community with Jim as the main presenter. There is so much value in raising awareness about an everyday threat facing our churches,” states Ed Klaameyer, former congregational president of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Lutz, FL.

For more information:

Mitch Smithies: (727) 677-0454 / msmithies44@gmail.com

Jim Howard: (727) 534-6047 / jim@trinitysecurityallies.com

Event: Saturday, June 10th, 9 a.m. to 12 noon

Protecting Your House of Worship

            Cornerstone Fellowship Church

            224 Barber Hill Drive

            Waynesville, NC 28786

*FREE EVENT – Donation appreciated.

Source: MyNetworkOne on Behalf of Trinity Security Allies

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June 8, 2017
Punctuated Publishing Explains How Two New Mystery Novels Underscore Dangers in Real Estate Profession

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Press Release
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Oct 31, 2016

New York, USA, October 31, 2016 (Newswire.com)
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According to Punctuated Publishing, if your real estate agent won’t meet you at a property before conducting an initial in-office consultation, or won’t lead the way down to a house’s basement, don’t take it personally. Recent violence against real estate agents is changing the ways REALTORS^® do business, and two new murder mystery novels, actually written by REALTOR^®/authors, are underscoring the industry’s inherent dangers in a more subtle and entertaining fashion than recent horrific newspaper headlines.

Much of the focus on dangers facing real estate agents was instigated by the murder of Arkansas-based REALTOR^® Beverly Carter back in 2014. That’s what inspired Bernice Gottlieb, an associate broker with William Raveis Legends Realty Group in Irvington, NY, to pen her somber murder mystery, Havoc-on-Hudson. In her author’s note, citing the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, Gottlieb says an average of 70 to 80 reported incidents of rape, robbery and homicide take place each year with real estate professionals. Moreover, since 2008, the number of real estate homicides nationwide exceeded those of police officers killed in the line of duty in that same period, she said.

“An average of 70 to 80 reported incidents of rape, robbery and homicide take place each year with real estate professionals,”

Bernice Gottlieb, Associate Broker, William Raveis Legends Realty Group

Expired Listings, a second, more satiric and kinky real estate murder mystery, was published this past September. Its author, Dawn M. Barclay, an associate broker for Keller Williams Hudson Valley Realty writing as D.M. Barr, says she completed the book’s outline long before Carter was murdered, specifically “as a warning to my fellow agents because I realized the risks inherent in this industry when I first become a REALTOR^® back in 1999.” She voices those concerns in the following quote between a fictional agency owner and the detective investigating the ‘Realtor Retaliator’ serial killer in her novel: “Most agents are women, usually very attractive women. We post glamour shots on our signs and business cards and then list every possible way to reach us. Then, how’s this for brilliant, we advertise that we’re going to be alone in an empty house for hours on a Sunday afternoon. We have strangers join us in our cars, or we ride in theirs. We eat food at open houses supplied by God knows who. If we’re not asking for trouble, then I don’t know who is.”

With both actual and fictional dangers highlighting the vulnerabilities of real estate agents, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) has published a number of safety guidelines for its 1,500,000+ members. In addition, in an award-winning, consumer-based video titled, “Real Estate Safety and You,” NAR explains to property buyers how agents might interact differently with them than they have in the past. Such precautions include:

·         Agents initially meeting new clients at their office, not at properties for sale

·         Agents requesting to see identification (Driver’s License) and mortgage prequalification letters at first meet

·         Agents driving separately from buyers to see properties (which is also more convenient if one or both parties have appointments directly afterwards.)

·         Agent walking behind buyers at showings, and allowing buyers to inspect attics, basements and garages on their own

·         Agents only showing vacant houses during daylight hours

·         Buyers required to sign in and show identification at Open Houses, which may be staffed by more than one agent. (In fact, Barclay indicates that instead of traditional Open Houses, she hosts ‘Traveling Home Shows,’ where buyers meet several vendors, such as interior decorators, lawyers, contractors, etc., ensuring her safety along with a one-stop shopping experience for buyers.)

As both Gottlieb and Barclay are well aware, real estate violence is far more palatable in thriller novels than in their day-to-day business routines. By educating the public as to why new safety precautions have been put in place, both real estate agents and their clients can enjoy a more pleasurable and safe buying and selling experience.

Havoc-on-Hudson is available at Amazon or other fine book retailers.

Expired Listings is available through Amazon or other retailers as detailed at http://www.punctuatedpublishing.com.

For more information, contact Dawn M. Barclay at 845-893-0173.

##

Source: Punctuated Publishing

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October 31, 2016
Operation LIPSTICK is Featured in People Magazine

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Press Release
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updated: Oct 26, 2016

New York, NY, October 25, 2016 (Newswire.com)
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A new approach to reduce gun violence is getting results—and People Magazine has the story in a Special Edition with Ellen DeGeneres on newsstands now. Operation LIPSTICK (Ladies Involved in Putting a Stop to Inner-City Killing) stops women from straw purchasing guns for felons, juveniles, and other people who can’t buy guns legally. Straw purchasing by women is a major source (http://operationlipstick.org/operation-lipstick/) of guns used in homicides and other violent crimes in cities throughout the country.

Every day, women are exploited to move guns into the hands of drug dealers, convicted felons, gang-involved youth, domestic abusers, and more. Men who cannot pass a criminal background check often turn to women to buy guns for them in what’s known as a “straw purchase.”

LIPSTICK reduced gun crimes by women 33%

Nancy Robinson, Executive Director

LIPSTICK keeps guns out of the wrong hands and youth out of the criminal justice system. LIPSTICK has been credited with a 33% reduction in gun crimes by women and girls in Boston.

The non-profit has chapters in Boston, New York, and San Francisco. The organization is now raising money through crowd funding to expand to more cities.

Straw purchasing cases involving women underscore the need for LIPSTICK in urban communities across the country:

Chicago

A Chicago man with a criminal record paid a female security guard $800 to buy four guns for him at local gun stores. (http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-05-12/news/ct-met-guns-straw-purchasers-20130512_1_kenneth-lee-gun-violence-straw-purchasing) Research by Northwestern University shows that 15% of guns recovered from male gang members were first bought by women

Philadelphia

Last month, a press aide to Philadelphia’s District Attorney was investigated for straw buying an AK-47 for her boyfriend.(http://www.philly.com/philly/news/20160923_DA_s_press_aide_under_investigation.html)

Harlem and Bronx

In the largest gun trafficking bust in New York City history, the trafficker used his girlfriend to smuggle and resell weapons. (http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/largest-seizure-illegal-guns-announced-article-1.1430629)

Milwaukee

The handgun used to shoot a Milwaukee police officer was purchased by a woman from The Gander Mountain store.(http://www.wisn.com/article/man-who-shot-officer-had-accomplice-documents-say/6332517)

Minneapolis

The 23-year-old wife of convicted trafficker straw purchased six guns in five separate transactions at the same gun store. The guns were used in Minneapolis-area shootings.(http://minnesota.cbslocal.com/2016/03/17/guns-straw-purchase-sentencing/)

Oakland

A woman bought 35 guns for crack dealer. Several of the guns were found at Oakland crime scenes. (http://www.eastbaytimes.com/2014/10/03/oakland-guns-illegally-purchased-in-oregon-turn-up-at-crime-scenes/)

Ft Myers, Florida

A woman was arrested for straw purchasing the gun used in a nightclub shooting that killed two youth. (http://www.news-press.com/story/news/crime/2016/07/29/more-victims-identified-club-blu-shooting/87727494/)

For more cases, visit LIPSTICK’s Women and Crime Guns database.

LIPSTICK transforms female straw purchasers into leaders, mentors and spokeswomen. They make presentations in beauty salons, community centers, schools, after-school programs, churches, and domestic violence and homeless shelters. They warn women not to be duped into buying, hiding or holding guns for partners and male friends and family members who can’t get guns legally.

“Nobody’s doing what LIPSTICK is doing,” said John Jay College professor of criminal justice David Kennedy. “Their combination of grassroots action and their focus on establishing a community moral imperative against gun trafficking is particularly original and timely. ”

Boston City Councilor Ayanna Pressley stated, “I’ve have been telling Hillary Clinton, Mayor DeBlasio, Mayor Walsh, and anyone else who will listen, LIPSTICK is the right fix.”

“I’m making a difference when someone who is misguided on what love is, who is willing to go to jail for someone else, makes a turnaround, “ said LIPSTICK Program Director Judy Rose.

LIPSTICK leaders who took part in the story include:

• Ruth Rollins, LIPSTICKS’ first Program Director whose 21-year old son Danny was found shot to death in 2007

• Rashandra Riley, former Ohio straw purchaser who testified before Congress (https://youtu.be/i5tYvzDuyqA ) and is now a mother with a Master’s degree. Ms. Riley is seeking to launch LIPSTICK in St. Louis

• Judy Rose, LIPSTICK Program Director, mother, nurse and community activist with a passion for educating and empowering women and young girls

• Shante Leathers, LIPSTICK Social Media and Outreach Director, a senior at Wheelock College earning her Bachelor’s Degree in social work

• Iesha Sekou—founder of Harlem’s Street Corner Resources and director of the New York LIPSTICK office

• Nancy Robinson, LIPSTICK Executive Director

• Ayanna Pressley, the first African American woman elected to Boston City Council and LIPSTICK board member

• David Kennedy, author of “Don’t Shoot,” director of National Network for Safe Communities at the John Jay College of Criminal Justice

About LIPSTICK

LIPSTICK is women helping women keep guns out of the wrong hands and create safe neighborhoods where children can grow up without the fear of gunfire.

31 Heath Street Suite 12
Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
www.operationlipstick.org
info@citizensforsafety.org
(617) 233-5363

Source: LIPSTICK

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October 25, 2016
Designer Anitra Mecadon Goes Behind the Scenes with Colgate Mattress on “Diaper Pad” Episode
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Celebrity Designer Anitra Mecadon Goes Behind-the-Scenes with Colgate Mattress on New Episode of “Diaper Pad”. HGTV Star and mom-to-be offers straightforward advice on how to choose a safe, eco-friendly crib mattress.

Press Release
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Sep 22, 2016
Atlanta, GA, September 22, 2016 (Newswire.com)
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TV personality and award-winning interior designer Anitra Mecadon takes moms-to-be on a fun and informative journey to buying a safe, eco-friendly crib mattress on the next episode of her digital series “Diaper Pad.” During the episode, Mecadon and husband, Adam Bret, visit the nation’s oldest family owned crib mattress maker, Colgate Mattress. Whether viewers are first-time parents, grandparents or caregivers, Diaper Pad offers honest, straightforward advice in Anitra’s signature approachable style. The episode will premiere today on Diaper Pad.

When Anitra and Adam discovered they were expecting, they decided to purchase a new mattress for their bedroom. Frustrated by the process and endless options, the two were inspired to shop early for a crib mattress that met their strict requirements for safety, health, and comfort. Following a visit to the eco-friendly baby boutique, Happy Mango, the couple decided to check out the EverTrue™ Diamond, Colgate’s top of the line dual firmness foam crib mattress.

“If you think shopping for an adult mattress can be overwhelming, just wait until you start exploring options for your baby. I wanted to help new parents sort through the junk and make decisions that they can feel confident about.”

Anitra Mecadon

“If you think shopping for an adult mattress can be overwhelming, just wait until you start exploring options for your baby. I wanted to help new parents sort through the junk and make decisions that they can feel confident about,” Mecadon said. “I think every mom wants her baby to sleep safe and sound. Plus, when baby sleeps, mama sleeps… a great crib mattress is key!”

This episode of Diaper Pad offers a behind-the-scenes look at Colgate’s Atlanta-based factory, where crib mattresses are constructed by hand. While there, Anitra details her list of preferences in a conversation with Colgate’s marketing director, Terri Paul. The top three must-haves included:
- Safety first – As recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Anitra’s first necessity was a firm sleep surface. The Diamond’s unique design provides the extra firmness infants need for proper growth and development on one side as well as the added comfort toddlers prefer on the other.
- No exposure to chemicals – The Diamond features plant-oil infused eco foam and ultrasonically welded side seams. This mattress also meets and exceeds all federal and state requirements for flammability and chemical composition and has earned the GREENGUARD® Gold and Certi-PurUS® certifications ensuring no harmful air emissions.
- Optimal airflow – To provide unprecedented airflow, the Diamond combines Colgate’s Diamond channel gel memory foam with its exclusive SecureCore honeycomb mesh fabric spacer. The crib mattress also brings the power of Celliant® — the world’s first biologically responsive fabric — to crib mattresses to help baby sleep better. Frequently used in high-performance athletic gear, this innovative material is designed to increase circulation and improve the level of oxygen in the body. As an added benefit, the Celliant infused cover has no chemical flame retardants that could be harmful to baby.
“Anitra really did her homework before challenging us to demonstrate how the EverTrue Diamond meets all of her needs as a concerned mom-to-be,” said Paul. “At Colgate, we want every caregiver to know how important the crib mattress is throughout growth and development. And as the mother of four, it’s an honor to share info that helps Anitra and Adam prepare for their baby’s arrival.”

“New dads can sometimes be removed from the process of preparing the nursery, especially things like buying a crib mattress,” added Adam Bret. “But when you consider that infants can spend up to 16 hours a day sleeping, then add to that the value of your own peace of mind, this is one investment that certainly pays off.”

Sold exclusively at dedicated and knowledgeable specialty store partners, including Brixy member stores, the EverTrue™ Diamond is a lightweight, 6” thick foam crib mattress. Made in the US, the Diamond fits all standard size American cribs and toddler beds. Suggested MSRP is $349.99.

About Anitra Mecadon & “Diaper Pad”

Anitra Mecadon is a celebrity designer and home improvement TV star. She has starred in 5 seasons of the DIY Network’s hit series Mega Dens and numerous other TV shows for DIY and HGTV such as: HGTV’s All American Handyman, Esquire Magazine’s Ultimate Bachelor Pad, HGTV’s Behind the Build Dream House, HGTV’s Behind the Build Smart Home, HGTV’s Raise the Roof College Challenge, and more. In her 15 years as an interior designer, Anitra has also created amazing residential and commercial designs. “Diaper Pad” chronicles the life and times of Mecadon and her husband, music producer Adam Bret, as they navigate the world of having children and designing the ultimate baby nursery/kids rooms. For more Diaper Pad, click here to subscribe.

About Colgate Mattress

Headquartered in Atlanta, GA, Colgate is a family-owned business with a 60-year heritage of manufacturing premium quality crib mattresses. Founded in 1955 by Sol and Anne Wolkin, the company creates the largest selection of foam and innerspring crib mattresses, foam mattress pads, and crib accessories. Colgate products are GREENGUARD™ Gold certified, non-toxic and made in the USA using only the finest internal components available. Colgate has received many industry awards and is proud to be among the first members of the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA), an organization dedicated to enhancing child product safety. For more info, visit ColgateKids.com. Join the conversation at #dreamsafe.

Media contacts:

Lalohni Campbell
la@colgatekids.com
404-593-7145

Kyell Thomas
kyell.thomas@octagon.com
310-854-8376

Source: Colgate Mattress
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September 22, 2016