Mirage Esports Inc. Addresses Allegations of Non-Payment Amidst New Season Kickoff

By: Mirage esports inc.

TORONTOMarch 11, 2024PRLog — As the new season of the North America League begins, Mirage Esports Inc. is eager to focus on the future and the excitement that competitive play brings. However, recent allegations made by former members of our organization regarding non-payment have necessitated this response to clarify the situation to our fans, partners, and the broader esports community.

Mirage Esports Inc. wishes to address these claims transparently and directly. Early in the previous season, agreements were reached between management, our players and staff regarding structured payment schedules. Given the challenges faced by the company, including periods of inactivity, it was mutually agreed that players would receive partial payments at varying frequencies until the outstanding amounts were complete. These agreements have been honored by Mirage as well as its administrators, ensuring that despite financial hurdles, our commitments to our players were kept and that payments continue. Payment structures for players that participated in the last stage of 2023 have not yet been finalized.

Throughout this period we received assurances from the players and the coaching staff who had made these arrangements with us, that these steps were  acceptable. Everyone involved agreed to work together in good faith to navigate the company’s financial constraints, recognizing the global economic challenges impacting many organizations, including those in the esports sector.

Mirage Esports Inc. takes these allegations seriously and is committed to resolving any misunderstandings or grievances. We maintain exhaustive records of all transactions and communications with our players and staff, underscoring our commitment to transparency and accountability.

As we step into a new season, our focus is on building a positive and competitive environment for our current roster and reinforcing our commitment to the values that have kept Mirage Esports passionate about Siege’s competitive environment. We are here to compete at the highest levels, support our players in achieving their best, and provide our fans with the thrilling esports action they love.

Mirage Esports Inc. remains dedicated to fostering talent and growing the esports ecosystem. We are moving forward with renewed vigour, additional support and are excited about what the future holds for our team in the North America League and a positive growth for the organization.
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Empower Educational Innovation: CAST Opens Nominations for UDL Awards 2024

BOSTONMarch 11, 2024PRLogCAST, an innovator in Universal Design for Learning (UDL), is thrilled to announce the augural UDL Awards 2024, set to take place on July 30th at the Hyatt Regency – Sacramento.

In honor of our 40th Anniversary, as we mark this significant milestone, we proudly embrace our journey of evolution and innovation, recognizing the transformative impact of UDL as we envision the next 40 years of educational excellence.

This prestigious event aims to recognize and celebrate excellence in the field of education. Award nominations are now open, and individuals and organizations are encouraged to submit their entries by April 12th.

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a framework and a tool used by educators in designing learning experiences that are accessible and available to ALL students. The framework supports designing teaching and learning experiences and environments that set clear learning goals, embrace and honor variability of learners, anticipate barriers to learning and access, and provide options for learners through this design.

“We are thrilled to present the UDL Awards 2024 and recognize the remarkable individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions to the field of education,” said Lindsay Jones, CEO at CAST. “These awards not only celebrate achievements but also serve as a catalyst for continued innovation and excellence within our educational community.”

The UDL Awards 2024 will serve as a platform to honor outstanding individuals and organizations who have demonstrated exceptional achievements, innovation, and contributions within Universal Design for Learning. With a commitment to acknowledging excellence and inspiring others, this event promises to be an evening of recognition and inspiration.

The award categories for the UDL Awards 2024 are:

  1. Anne Meyer UDL Design Award: This award celebrates trailblazing achievements in the realm of educational design. It recognizes individuals, teams, or organizations whose creative work embodies the principles of UDL through inclusive experiences, tools, and environments.
  2. David Rose UDL Research Award: This award recognizes outstanding contributions to the field of education through research that advances the principles and implementation of UDL. It honors researchers who have demonstrated excellence in investigating and implementing strategies, methodologies, and technologies that enhance the educational experience for all learners.
  3. UDL Innovative Practice Award: This award seeks to recognize and celebrate educators, instructional leaders, and practitioners who have demonstrated exceptional commitment and creativity in implementing UDL principles within their teaching practices. It acknowledges the transformative impact of innovative pedagogical approaches that prioritize inclusivity, engagement, and accessibility for all learners.

Join us in celebrating excellence and achievement at the UDL Awards 2024 by nominating your UDL champion today!

To delve deeper into CAST’s mission and UDL, visit our website at www.cast.org.

For more information on the nomination process and sponsorship opportunities, contact Kisha Barton, Sr Director of Communications, at kbarton@cast.org.

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About CAST (https://www.cast.org/):
CAST is a nonprofit education research and professional development and learning organization that created the UDL framework and UDL Guidelines.

After 48 years of service, Bob Lindner, Executive Director of Travelers Aid, is retiring

PITTSBURGHMarch 5, 2024PRLog — Bob Lindner was raised in Brookline and was a student at South Catholic High School.  He attended the University of Dayton and graduated with a degree in Psychology.  After service as a medic in the US Army during the Vietnam war, Bob completed an associate degree and business administration and Masters of Social Work from the University of Pittsburgh and was hired as the Executive Director by the Travelers Aid Board President in July of 1976, Varcey Troan.  He served in the Executive Director role in many different incarnations of Travelers Aid, with the focus turning from exclusive stranded-traveler assistance to local transportation initiatives, beginning in the late 1990’s.  Bob engineered programming to help all types of clients from at-risk and domestic violence situations to those with medical needs, employment services, veterans, food security, seniors and other categories.

Travelers Aid is proud to celebrate Bob Lindner’s accomplishments.  It is impossible to state in a few paragraphs the impact that Bob Lindner has had over the years and the lives he has touched. Needless to say, he has helped thousands of individuals over the decades, whether it be our neighbors here in Pittsburgh, or stranded travelers to return to other cities.

“For financially struggling families the lack of transportation to access services often presents an insurmountable barrier. For 48 years I have had the privilege of working for a pioneering organization that has been at the forefront of confronting those barriers, resulting in thousands upon thousands of positive outcomes. Not only am I appreciative of the opportunity to have been affiliated with such an outstanding agency and staff but also just as confident that Travelers Aid will remain at the forefront of innovative solutions for those in need in our community.” – Robert Lindner, Former Executive Director of Travelers Aid of Pittsburgh

Bob Lindner will be replaced in the Executive Director role by Ryan Capra, a life-long Pittsburgher and a Travelers Aid staff member since 2002.  Ryan Capra attended Indiana University of Pennsylvania and graduated in 2001 with a bachelor’s degree in psychology.

About Travelers Aid:

One of Pittsburgh’s oldest social service agencies, Travelers Aid Society has been assisting individuals in Western Pennsylvania for nearly a century.  As a 501(c)3 non-profit agency, Travelers Aid is the only organization of its kind in the region, targeting all efforts to provide transportation assistance to a variety of populations and for a multitude of service needs.  Over the last 25 years, Travelers Aid has developed partnerships with the Department of Human Services in Allegheny County and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Medical Assistance Transportation, the Office of Children, Youth and Families, the Office of Behavioral Health, Labor & Industry, the Department of Corrections, as well as a plethora of foundations, human service and medical providers.

The agency has become a crucial provider in Allegheny County, assisting in 3 million trips to 7,500 individuals and families annually.

Transforming Lives Through Transportation

Ocean Exchange Startups to be part of the CLIA CRUISE WEEK

Cruise Line International Association Hosts Innovation Expo in Genoa, 11-14 March

FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla.March 5, 2024PRLog — The Ocean Exchange (https://www.oceanexchange.org/), a leader in supporting the acceleration of innovative solutions for healthy oceans and a sustainable blue economy will be supporting the upcoming CLIA Cruise Week by providing a showcase of past finalists with solutions that cover Maritime Tech, Hospitality and Design/New Build for the cruise industry.  The CLIA Innovation Expo (https://www.cliacruiseweek.com/about-innovation-expo/) was designed for members seeking a curated forum to discover new suppliers and innovative resources for sustainability.

The startups giving 5-minute presentations on the Innovation Hall stage will be:

AnchorGuardian, AnchorGuardian is a patented technology that immediately recognizes anchor drag, thus minimizing groundings, collisions, and environmental damage.

Coral Vita, Protects threatened ecosystems by growing diverse and resilient corals and outplanting them into degraded reefs.

Helix Power, Helix Power’s kinetic batteries represent a key enabling technology for zero-emission port operations.

Hydronalix, Advanced unmanned vehicles for emergency responders. Fully integrated mission support services.

Impact Food, A food technology company that is restoring the health of our oceans by reinventing seafood using plants and biotechnology.

Lios, Eimear O’Carroll, SoundBounce is a smart acoustic material saving space and improving low-frequency attenuation in the maritime/ships industry.

NatureMetrics, Measures corporate impact on biodiversity. Single and multi-species detection in a range of sample types and a wide array of ecosystems.

WAVE – ADHERE GEAR, Eliminating food loss and reducing waste by continuously monitoring frozen and perishable food products, dry goods, and chemicals transported aboard.

“We are delighted to be supporting CLIA’s Innovation EXPO by showcasing some of the groundbreaking solutions we have within our ecosystem of startups. It is a huge opportunity for these startups and the cruising industry to make advances in sustainable operations.” noted Millicent Pitts, CEO of Ocean Exchange.

Anshul Tuteja, Associate VP, Global Fleet Optimization with Royal Caribbean Group and Ocean Exchange Board Member added, “CLIA member lines have set sustainability goals and each year the CLIA member fleet becomes more efficient as we embrace new technologies and accelerate innovation, including the uptake of sustainable alternative low-carbon fuels. This is another step forward for sustainability in the cruise line industry and shows great initiative to be consistently seeking innovative technologies for responsible cruising.”

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About the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA):

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is the preeminent cruise trade association, providing a unified voice for the industry and its members as the leading authority of the global cruise community.

For more information, please visit cruising.org (https://www.cruising.org/) or CLIA’s European website at europe.cruising.org and follow us on our global and European channels via Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/CLIAGlobal/), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/cliaglobal/), X (formerly Twitter) (https://twitter.com/cliaglobal) and LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/cliaglobal/).

About Ocean Exchange:

Ocean Exchange (https://www.oceanexchange.org/) is a global ecosystem whose mission is to accelerate the adoption of innovative solutions for healthy oceans and the sustainable blue economy. A 501(c)(3), Ocean Exchange fulfills this mission through a rigorous, multi-level program that includes annual monetary awards, promoting registered Solutions across multiple communication channels, and facilitating access to the global network. Oceanexchange.org (https://www.oceanexchange.org/).

Media Contact:
Susan Zellers
Ocean Exchange
+1-410-562-2796  susan.zellers@oceanexchange.org

CONTACT of Ocean & Monmouth Counties: Supporting Everyone in Need

CONTACT supporting everyone in need

CONTACT supporting everyone in need

TOMS RIVER, N.J.March 5, 2024PRLog — On the Jersey Shore, there exists a vital support system for individuals navigating life’s challenges: CONTACT of Ocean & Monmouth Counties (CONTACT), a non-profit organization dedicated to providing assistance and solace to those in need. As March marks Developmental Disability Awareness Month (DDAM) and underscores the significance of Teen Mental Health, CONTACT remains steadfast in its mission to offer unwavering support, understanding, and empathy to all who seek its services.

DDAM is a time to recognize the diverse abilities and contributions of individuals with developmental disabilities. It’s a reminder that every person, regardless of their challenges, deserves respect, inclusion, and support. CONTACT echoes this sentiment by providing a safe space for individuals with developmental disabilities to express themselves, seek assistance, and find connection.

Executive Director Kim Santora emphasizes, “CONTACT is here for everyone, regardless of their background or abilities. We believe in the inherent dignity and worth of every individual, and we strive to ensure that our services are accessible and inclusive to all.” CONTACT’s mission statement encapsulates this commitment, emphasizing the organization’s dedication to responding to human needs 24 hours a day. Through trained telephone listeners, CONTACT offers free confidential crisis intervention, information on available resources, and referrals to community services. This unwavering support extends to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, providing them with the reassurance that they are not alone in their journey.

In today’s fast-paced world, the mental well-being of teenagers is more critical than ever. Teen Mental Health is a pressing issue that requires compassionate understanding and proactive intervention. CONTACT recognizes the unique challenges facing adolescents and is committed to providing a lifeline for those navigating the complexities of adolescence.

“Teenagers often face immense pressure and uncertainty, which can take a toll on their mental health,” says Santora. “At CONTACT, we aim to create a supportive environment where teenagers feel comfortable reaching out for help, whether they’re struggling with school, relationships, or their mental well-being.”

CONTACT’s volunteers undergo rigorous training to handle a wide range of issues, including those related to teen mental health. Whether it’s offering a listening ear to a distressed teenager or providing information about local mental health resources, CONTACT ensures that young individuals have access to the support they need to thrive.

CONTACT of Ocean & Monmouth Counties serves as a beacon of hope in times of need, providing support and assistance to individuals facing crises, challenges, and uncertainties. CONTACT reaffirms its commitment to being there for everyone, offering compassion, empathy, and understanding to all who seek solace. “CONTACT is more than just an organization; it’s a community of caring individuals dedicated to making a difference in the lives of others. No matter who you are or what you’re going through, know that CONTACT is here for you,” stated Santora.

For more information about CONTACT and to register for the volunteer training, please call 732-240-6104 or email contact@contactoceanmonmouth.org.

About CONTACT of Ocean & Monmouth Counties

CONTACT of Ocean & Monmouth Counties is a non-profit charitable organization that provides trained telephone listeners who respond to human needs 24 hours every day. This volunteer-based organization offers free confidential crisis intervention, information on available resources, and referrals to community services. To learn more, visit https://www.ContactOceanMonmouth.org.

Franksgiving Spring Event Will Give Away Sinatra Goodies

Sinatra Giveaways

Sinatra Giveaways

AVON BY THE SEA, N.J.March 4, 2024PRLog — Thanksgiving is a wonderful November holiday, a time of gratitude and goodwill, but arriving this spring, Franksgiving will be celebrated!

Cool Sinatra-esque gifts will be given away, as a Franksgiving gesture, during the exciting seaside show, SPRING IS HERE: Celebrating the Music of Frank Sinatra, on Sunday, May 5, 2024, indoors at the Avon Municipal Marina Building, 2 Main Street, Avon-By-The-Sea, NJ, to begin promptly at Noon.

Lucky attendees will experience Franksgiving while an assortment of Sinatra-related prizes are awarded, all offered as a genuine thank you from the producer of the event, Karen Morris.

Charles L. “Chuck” Granata, a leading authority on the music of Frank Sinatra, is graciously contributing a 3-CD Capitol set which includes Screen Sinatra, Sinatra Classic Tracks and Swing Easy; plus a 4-CD Frank Sinatra Big Band set with Tommy Dorsey, Glenn Miller, Harry James and Benny Goodman. Mr. Granata will personally present these superb CD sets at the event.

Another splendid prize, donated by Host/Producer Mark Sudock of THE SINATRA SONGBOOK, Metromedia Radio, is a limited edition CD sampler issued by the Sinatra Estate, containing 10 highlighted tracks from the Sinatra London boxed set. Mark is an Advisory Board Member of The Rat Pack Music Alliance. Thanks to Mr. Sudock for his generosity.

For book lovers, a terrific gift, courtesy of author Darren Grubb, who co-penned the highly entertaining celebrity memoir of Tom Dreesen, Still Standing: My Journey from Streets and Saloons to the Stage, and Sinatra. Thank you to Darren and Tom for their kind donation of this captivating read. Darren is an Advisory Board Member of The Rat Pack Music Alliance.

Event Producer Karen Morris is gifting a reissue copy of a Life Magazine Special Edition – The Rat Pack, The Original Bad Boys, by James Kaplan. Additional prizes are being gathered and considered.

Distinguished Sinatra Scholars Charles L. “Chuck” Granata and Dana Polan, will begin the Franksgiving festivities with a fascinating talk about Mr. Sinatra, his music and career. Special guest speaker Brian Mark will follow, extending the illuminating discussion and segue to the prize giveaways. A delightful musical interlude by vocalist Zack Alexander will close the show.

Guest Speaker Chuck Granata is a writer, record and radio producer, music historian, and archivist. He is the author of 4 books, including the award-winning book Sessions with Sinatra: Frank Sinatra and the Art of Recording,  He is also the producer of Nancy Sinatra’s weekly radio program “Nancy for Frank” on Sirius-XM radio.

Guest Speaker Dana Polan, a Martin Scorsese Professor of Cinema Studies, Tisch School of the Arts, New York University, has taught about Frank Sinatra at NYU and lectured about him at Ohio State University and Notre Dame. He is the author of 10 books in film and media, including, among others, Dreams of Flight, The Great Escape in American Film and Culture, and The Lego Movie. He is the former President of the Society for Cinema Studies.

Guest Speaker Brian Mark, Executive Producer of The Sounds of Sinatra, has spent the last 30 years producing alongside his father, the legendary broadcaster, Sid Mark. Sadly Sid passed away, but both have shared an extraordinary number of experiences with radio personalities and entertainment luminaries such as Frank Sinatra Jr., Nancy Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Vic Damone, and more.

Jazz Vocalist Zack Alexander, a sensational crooner, will add his marvelous talent, performing a medley of spring tunes and favorite melodies from his vast Sinatra songbook.

Event Presenter Karen Morris is an independent producer and founder of Sand Castle Communications LLC and The Rat Pack Music Alliance.

Tickets are on sale now. A code number is needed to enter the ticket site. Email sand3737@gmail.com for more info. Or visit: https://sandcastlecommunications.weebly.com/sinatra-events-by-karen.html

Contact
Karen Morris, Sand Castle Communications
***@gmail.com