New Bedford Ocean Cluster Introduces Logo Redesign Aligned With Its Mission

Nov 9, 2023 | Books, Business

NEW BEDFORD, Mass. – Nov. 8, 2023 – PRLog — The New Bedford Ocean Cluster (NBOC) announces the launch of our new logo, marking a significant moment in our ongoing organizational development. The newly unveiled logo reflects the organization’s goal to establish New Bedford, Massachusetts, and the surrounding region as the foremost ocean economy on the East Coast.

The motivation behind the logo redesign stems from a comprehensive marketing and communications planning process the NBOC has undertaken. While the NBOC just launched in late 2021, our journey began back in 2017 when we signed a partnership agreement with the Iceland Ocean Cluster, making us part of the global ocean cluster network. The Iceland Ocean Cluster and other cluster organizations worldwide are making their fisheries and ports more profitable and sustainable through the clustering concept. The NBOC’s Founders knew that New Bedford was fertile ground to do the same, and that vision drove the organization to where it is today.

In the words of the NBOC’s Executive Director Jennifer Downing, “Until now, we’ve shared a logo with the Iceland Ocean Cluster. Iceland has been a huge pioneer to the ocean cluster movement, so it has made a lot of sense to visually align with their brand. We continue to gain a lot of value from being a part of the network, and this will not change. However, the Port of New Bedford and our maritime economy is unique. We’ve also come a long way as an organization in just two years. It is time for the NBOC to have a distinct brand identity that captures our mission, values, and four pillars while also honoring the global ocean cluster network we proudly are part of.”

The New Bedford Ocean Cluster is a non-profit marine industry association that facilitates connections between maritime companies in greater New Bedford and strengthening their markets across the world. Our efforts are strategically focused on four interrelated marine industry pillars: Aquaculture, Commercial Fishing & Processing, Innovation & Technology, and Offshore Renewable Energy. According to Downing, “We have four industry pillars at the NBOC; while we want to see each prosper, we also seek to facilitate their intersection whenever possible. The convergence of industries will create a true ocean economy in the Port of New Bedford. It’s ambitious but incredibly exciting.”

The new logo now encapsulates these aspects, offering a holistic representation of the organization. This redesign symbolizes the New Bedford Ocean Cluster’s dedication to our mission, its uniqueness in the marine industry, and our commitment to growth and development.

“The ocean has always been a source of opportunity for the people who have come to New Bedford to build our city while building better lives for themselves,” said NBOC Board President John Bullard. “The Ocean Cluster is showing how related sectors of our ocean economy can thrive together through mutual respect and understanding.”

The New Bedford Ocean Cluster (NBOC) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization created to leverage New Bedford’s strategic coastal position and extensive ocean economy and knowledge base to attract investment, support the formation and growth of maritime businesses, and foster initiatives that can create economic and community impact from the sustainable use of ocean resources. The NBOC works collaboratively with the private sector, public sector, and academic institutions to establish New Bedford and the region as a leading ocean economy through the advancement of Aquaculture, Commercial Fishing & Processing, Innovation & Technology, and Offshore Renewable Energy. Visit us at https://nboc.org/

Got Sit Dog Training Organizes Holiday Dog Drive Benefiting P.A.C.K. With Bridges Pets

Nov 9, 2023 | Books, Business

SNOHOMISH, Wash. – Nov. 7, 2023 – PRLog — Got Sit Dog Training has arranged a holiday dog drive collecting donations to benefit People for Animal Care and Kindness (P.A.C.K.) with a collection bin at Bridges Pets in Snohomish, Washington.

Between November 24th and December 24th, 2023, donations of dog food, treats, outerwear, toys, gear and other necessities will be accepted outside Bridges Pets located at 2929 Bickford Ave Snohomish, WA 98290. Monetary donations will also be accepted via QR code on the donation bin or directly at the P.A.C.K. website. All physical donations must be in new condition and may conveniently be purchased at Bridges Pets, though other store-bought items will be accepted.

P.A.C.K. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the welfare of animals by providing medical funds, food and supplies for animals living in low-income, no-income, senior and homeless environments. Though the group of women behind P.A.C.K. is small, their impact is mighty. With aid including but not limited to:

  • Providing funds for medical care to those in need and pets living in homelessness.
  • Monthly “Pay What You Can” pop-up events in lower-income areas to provide people and their pets access to food and supplies.
  • Working closely with several other non-profit organizations to assist them and their efforts to aid animals in need.
  • Bringing puppies and dogs into foster homes who have been abandoned, neglected, abused or surrendered to vet clinics.
  • Supporting reservations with food and vaccine donations, and providing funds for those desperately in need of veterinary care.
  • Providing rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming of unwanted pets through a network of foster homes.

Board member Malli Sheaffer explains their motivation, “We like this saying the best – I thought someone should do something to help animals, then I realized that someone should be me.”

As such, Got Sit chose P.A.C.K. to be the beneficiary of this drive with owner, Marvin Versteeg, stating, “We couldn’t think of a better cause to donate to than P.A.C.K. At Got Sit, we train dogs out of our desire for them to live their best lives and P.A.C.K.’s values and purpose align seamlessly by helping to ensure the dogs they help get the care and supplies they need for a better life.”

In organizing this month-long event, Got Sit partnered with Bridges Pets as the collection location due to its continued exemplary care for animals and its community in addition to the companies’ long-standing partnership and mutual support. For over 20 years, Bridges Pets, Gifts & Water Gardens has been providing quality pet supplies in Snohomish County. In addition to carrying a wide selection of foods, treats, and toys, Bridges also features gift items, outdoor fountains, pond supplies, aquariums, live fish, and animals. Bridges is a field trip destination for numerous local preschools and regularly hosts dog adoption events with Greyhound Pets, Inc.

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About Got Sit Dog Training: Founded in 2008, Got Sit’s dog training program focuses on preparing both dogs and owners for real life situations amid real life distractions. With an ethos rooted in the belief that there are no bad dogs, simply bad communication, Got Sit’s training methods use your home and the world at large combined with an emphasis on positive reinforcement and fostering a strong owner-dog relationship to make communicating with your dog easy, effective, realistic and reliable.

Contract checking LLP: revolutionizing clarity

Nov 8, 2023 | Books, Business

Contract Checking LLP, a UK-based legal innovator, combines solicitor expertise with AI to simplify complex contracts, making legal decisions transparent and cost-effective.

LONDON – Nov. 7, 2023 – PRLog — Contract Checking LLP, a pioneering leader in solicitor-based contract review, analysis, and negotiation assistance, has launched its game-changing services to empower individuals and businesses in the UK to make informed legal decisions and safeguard their interests when entering into contracts or agreements. Contract Checking LLP is leading the way in the legal world by incorporating AI in the back office while emphasizing that the work is still carried out by solicitors.

Managing Partner, Ralph Ehlers, emphasizes the profound significance of this innovative legal support, stating, “Contract Checking LLP provides a user-friendly avenue for translating contracts and legal agreements into plain, understandable English, effectively capturing essential information crucial for our clients to make well-informed and confident decisions. Our primary focus is on helping people comprehend the intricacies and pivotal elements of these legal agreements, enabling them to fully grasp every clause within the contract, regardless of whether it serves their best interests to sign the agreement or necessitates modifications. In essence, our clients will never be blindsided by the ‘fine print,’ potentially saving them up to 90% on legal fees.”

With a mission to democratize access to legal information and contract guidance, Ehlers emphasizes, “Our objective is to prevent individuals and businesses from entering legally binding agreements without a comprehensive understanding, thereby eliminating concerns about potential financial pitfalls or a lack of knowledge regarding more advantageous options. Contract Checking LLP effectively resolves both of these issues, solely focusing on agreement analysis and negotiation guidance, all at a fraction of the cost compared to other alternatives.”

“In the end,” Ehlers concludes, “Contract Checking LLP acknowledges that many people cannot afford the conventional ‘fees’ associated with traditional legal and solicitor practices. Quality legal agreement review may remain out of reach for those without a solicitor in the family. Our solution is to bridge that gap by offering affordable, top-tier agreement and appraisal services to individuals, business owners, and entrepreneurs across the UK.”

As Contract Checking LLP emerges on the scene, it is poised to establish itself as a leader in providing associated services, including agreement and contract reviews within the insurance, reinsurance, or Lloyd’s market. Contract Checking LLP is working closely with the main players in AI development, integrating AI into its back office operations. It’s important to note that the work is still carried out by solicitors, ensuring the human touch in legal services. Additionally, Contract Checking LLP is introducing its own AI system tailored to the ever-changing legal world, enhancing efficiency and accuracy.

It is essential to note that Contract Checking LLP is not vying for business with solicitor firms, as its clientele consists of individuals and companies who may not have considered their services previously. The core service is designed to assist new and small companies in securing their protection, ensuring they do not enter into agreements that could lead to unforeseen future complications. Contract Checking LLP offers comprehensive and versatile contract guidance on a wide range of legal matters.

For all press inquiries and further information about Contract Checking LLP, please visit our website: https://contractchecking.com/

Brasileira da Bahia Lidera Iniciativa de Inclusão Comunicativa em Boston

Nov 8, 2023 | Books, Business

Barbara Fernandes, uma imigrante da Bahia e CEO da Smarty Symbols, lidera a instalação de 28 painéis de comunicação bilíngues em Boston, impulsionando a inclusão e celebrando a diversidade cultural.

BOSTON – Nov. 7, 2023 – PRLog — Uma iniciativa pioneira em inclusão comunicativa transformou diversos espaços públicos de Boston, sob a liderança de uma imigrante brasileira que trilhou um caminho desde a Bahia até tornar-se uma empresária renomada nos Estados Unidos. Barbara Fernandes, CEO da Smarty Symbols, comanda a instalação de 28 painéis de comunicação alternativa bilíngues, sendo 24 deles em espanhol ou português, reafirmando a diversidade linguística e o compromisso da cidade com a inclusão.

O projeto “Todas as Vozes, Em Qualquer Lugar” é uma iniciativa que, sob a liderança visionária de Bárbara, oferece a crianças e adultos não verbais uma ferramenta visual para expressarem suas necessidades e pensamentos em ambientes públicos. A ação foi desencadeada em Boston este mês, coincidindo com a conferência anual da Associação Americana de Fonoaudiologia (ASHA).

As pranchas de comunicação são ferramentas visuais fundamentais que permitem que crianças e adultos não verbais se comuniquem apontando para símbolos ou imagens. Elas são extremamente valiosas para pessoas com dificuldades de fala ou linguagem, indivíduos autistas ou aqueles com distúrbios de comunicação, promovendo a independência e a interação comunitária.

Pranchas de comunicação são particularmente notáveis por sua capacidade de incluir crianças não falantes e, numa novidade para os Estados Unidos, por oferecerem opções em português, refletindo o reconhecimento das densas comunidades de imigrantes brasileiros. Com a significativa presença brasileira na região de Boston, estimada em 300.000 indivíduos, a cidade é um dos principais lares para os brasileiros nos Estados Unidos.

Este projeto vai além do comprometimento de Boston com a inclusão multicultural; ele ressalta o esforço de Bárbara para garantir que as vozes da comunidade brasileira, e da comunidade latina de forma mais ampla, sejam representadas e celebradas. ‘Introduzir o português nas pranchas de comunicação de Boston é a concretização de um sonho,’ afirma Bárbara. ‘Estas pranchas são um convite à comunidade brasileira e outras comunidades linguísticas para se engajarem plenamente na dinâmica social da cidade, assim como a reconhecerem que existem métodos gratuitos de serviços de apoio para crianças com autismo no estado.

O impacto da liderança de Bárbara vai além dos painéis. Orgulhosa de suas raízes baianas e impulsionada pelo desejo de promover a inclusão, Bárbara tem sido uma força motriz na comunidade de fonoaudiologia desde sua chegada aos Estados Unidos. Sua paixão por empoderamento e inovação a levou a criar a Smarty Symbols, uma empresa que não só desenvolve ferramentas educacionais inclusivas, mas também redefiniu o suporte à comunicação e educação com uma biblioteca de símbolos que espelha a diversidade do nosso mundo. As imagens da Smarty Symbols foram instrumentais para a criação das pranchas que agora estão espalhadas não só pela grande Boston, mas também em centenas de cidades nos Estados Unidos.

A iniciativa, liderada por Bárbara, reuniu a expertise de 22 fonoaudiólogos e empresas, todos trabalhando juntos para tornar Boston um exemplo de espaço inclusivo. Dentre os beneficiados estão escolas, parques e até mesmo o zoológico local, todos escolhidos por seu papel crucial na vida das crianças e famílias da região. Esta inclusão, idealizada e liderada por uma Baiana, agora impacta milhares de imigrantes e Americanos anualmente. Visite o site da Smarty Symbols  (https://smartysymbols.com/the-unspoken-revolution-therapists-and-educators-unite-to-make-public-spaces-more-inclusive-for-non-speaking-children/
) para ver todos os locais onde existe uma prancha de comunicacao.

A jornada de Barbara Fernandes é uma fonte de inspiração para muitos, provando que é possível superar barreiras e alcançar grandes feitos. Ela não apenas trouxe uma parte do Brasil para os Estados Unidos, mas também criou pontes de comunicação que unem pessoas de todas as línguas, culturas e habilidades comunicativas. Para a lista completa de todos os lugares beneficiados, acesse o site da Smarty Symbols.

Para mais informações sobre as pranchas de comunicação bilíngues e seu papel na promoção da inclusão cultural em Boston, visite www.smartysymbols.com

Last Night Celebrating NOSACONN South African Musicians Take The Stage at SNUG HARBOR Bistro

Nov 8, 2023 | Books, Business

Tonight is the last chance to see the South African musical delegation in New Orleans at SNUG HARBOR JAZZ BISTRO following tour teaching students and honoring late Ambassador James Joseph & David Russell Batiste Jr. in honor of NOSACONN’s 25th Year!

Jesse Mogale 11-6-23 @ Snug Harbor

Jesse Mogale 11-6-23 @ Snug Harbor

NEW ORLEANS – Nov. 6, 2023 – PRLog — Posted Courtesy of Wright Enterprises Community Spotlight San Francisco ~ Dallas
MEDIA ADVISORY

LAST CHANCE TONIGHT AT SNUG HARBOR JAZZ CLUBSOUTH AFRICAN DELEGATION CELEBRATES NOSACONN’S 25th ANNIVERSARY  WITH SALUTE TO THE LATE RUSSELL BATISTE JR.OF NOLA’S ROYAL FAMILY OF MUSICAFTER WEEKEND MEMORIAL TRIBUTE TOU.S. AMBASSADOR JAMES A. JOSEPH

Tonight is the last chance to see the South African artistic delegation in New Orleans at SNUG HARBOR JAZZ CLUB.  Eight South African officials and artists as cultural ambassadors  arrived in New Orleans last week as part of a cultural exchange between South Africa and New Orleans honoring two late cherished Louisiana citizens in coordination with NOSACONN- New Orleans South Africa Connection. Tonight’s performance in New Orleans will be followed by their appearance at Jazzy’s Cabaret in New Haven, Connecticut on Friday.

WHO:
DAMON BATISTE, New Orleans Cultural Ambassador, Founder of New Orleans South Africa Connection, inc. (NOSACONN); South African officials: Mr. PONELA JESSE MOGALE; Ms. DAISY MASHIANOKE MANGWATO; Mr. EZEKIEL MEGALANE; Mr. PHATSIRI MOSES MOGALE; Mr. THORISO PHATSIRI MOGALE; Ms. NTHABISENG ELIZABETH MOKOENA; Mr. TSHEPO HOPE MONARENG; and Mr. BUCCO BONGINKOSI XABA

WHAT:
As NOSACONN Notes its 25th Anniversary  Tonight’s Send Off Celebration of South Africans Jazz Tribute to New Orleans at Snug Harbor Jazz Club (https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=728279359322160&s…) will be the last chance to see the South Africans perform. For a complete itinerary  of the remainder of the group’s U.S. Visit contact Damon Batiste at 504 415-1702.

Over the past weekend Cultural Exchange Presentations and Musical tributes began with the salute to Late Ambassador James Joseph at Southern University’s Law Center.   Additionally, as lamentations continue from such entities as the Recording Academy for David Russell Batiste Jr. the South African cultural officials also honored the Batistes at Sweet Lorraine’s with special local guest appearance by Sebastian West’s  LA West Wind Band.

WHERE:
Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro 626 Frenchmen St., New Orleans 70116

WHEN:
TONIGHT: Monday, November 6th -The David Russell Batiste Tribute & Send Off Celebration for the South African cultural ambassadors continue at Snug Harbor, 7:30  p.m. & 9:30 p.m.

WHY:
Saluting NOSACONN’s 25th Anniversary, continuing the work of NOSACONN, Inc. while honoring the late humanitarian, educator and musician David Russell Batiste Jr., the entourage of South African officials are strengthening cultural exchange between New Orleans and South.

It should be noted tonight’s event is a continuation of presentations that began with instruction of school-age students and performances in Baton Rouge and New Orleans that honored the late Louisiana ambassador James Joseph and feted musician David Russell Batiste Jr. (see background media advisory (https://www.prlog.org/12992373-south-africans-honor-late-…)).

Tonight’s last performance in New Orleans will be followed by a special appearance in New Haven, Connecticut at the Jazzy Cabaret, Friday, November 10th before the South African delegation returns home to Johannesburg.

Peach State Truck Centers to Break Ground for New Dealership in Villa Rica, GA

Nov 8, 2023 | Books, Business

Peach State Truck Centers Villa Rica

Peach State Truck Centers Villa Rica

VILLA RICA, Ga. – Nov. 6, 2023 – PRLog — Peach State Truck Centers, a leading provider of major commercial truck brands in sales, parts, and service, is thrilled to host the groundbreaking ceremony for a new dealership in Villa Rica, Georgia. The official groundbreaking is scheduled for

November 14, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. The event will include guest speakers such as the President and Dealer Principal of Peach State Truck Centers, Rick Reynolds, and local dignitaries.

Located at the corner of Edge and Liberty Road off exit 26 on I-20, the new Peach State Truck Centers dealership in Villa Rica is strategically positioned to serve the growing needs of the commercial trucking industry in west Georgia and Eastern Alabama. The new facility will sit on 30 acres right off the interstate. This state-of-the-art facility will feature a wide range of commercial vehicles, including new and used trucks from Freightliner®, Western Star® vocational trucks, Thomas Built Buses school buses and Spartan fire trucks and other emergency vehicles. The location will also have at least 40 service bays and a parts warehouse with significant inventory added to their already $60,000,000 on hand inventory across their dealerships. This move will support the growing transportation needs in Georgia and eastern Alabama.

“As the Atlanta market continues to expand west from our Atlanta metro locations and east from our Birmingham and other Alabama locations, we want to be able to provide a wide range of services to the commercial trucking industry along that I-20 corridor,” said Greg Althardt, Peach State’s Chief Operating Officer.

The new Villa Rica location will mark Peach State Truck Center’s 14th location, and its opening in the fall of 2025 will mark the beginning of consolidation for Peach State’s Austell, Georgia location. “Georgia has been an amazing state to do business in for 50 years for our company. The growth in the Atlanta metro area, particularly as a transportation hub, has allowed us to grow our small family business of a single truck dealership to over 15 dealerships. Our customer base here in Georgia has supported us, and this new location will allow us to continue to support them where they need us. We are immensely proud to be a part of commercial growth in Georgia,” said Rick Reynolds, President, and Dealer Principal.

The Villa Rica location is expected to bring approximately 100 jobs to the Villa Rica and Carrollton area.

By partnering with customers and suppliers, Peach State commits to providing exceptional products and services delivered by caring competent and confident professionals who strive to create positive customer experiences in every interaction. Peach State is excited to become a productive member of the Villa Rica community. “We are going to create a state-of-the-art, pet-friendly facility, with modern technology, expanded parts inventory, and innovative amenities that puts our customers’ needs at the forefront of our design concepts. We’re going to make it really easy for our customers to transact business with us,” added Althardt.

The groundbreaking for Peach State Truck Centers in Villa Rica promises to be a landmark event for the company and the Villa Rica community. For more information about Peach State Truck Centers, please visit Peachstatetrucks.com or contact:

Rhonda Gauthreaux Rgauthreaux@peachstatetrucks.com
770-402-6451

About Peach State Truck Centers:

Peach State Truck Centers specializes in Heavy-Duty Truck Sales (new and used), a Parts Network, After Market Parts, a Service and Support Network, and Heavy-Duty Truck Body Shops. The company has been family owned and operated for almost 50 years and prides itself in quality service and making a difference in the lives of others. With locations throughout Alabama and Georgia, Peach State Truck Centers is a trusted trucking partner throughout the Southeast.