sHq_LoGiNz – Page 1201

International participants see Southern China Book Fair as a stage for culture

Posted on August 18, 2025 by sHq_LoGiNz

GUANGZHOU, China, Aug. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — News report from GDToday.

The Southern China Book Fair 2025 opens on August 15 in Guangzhou. Unlike previous editions, this year’s book fair has expanded its international area to an unprecedented level, covering over 2,000 square meters. Many acclaimed international authors and exhibitors have also come to meet Chinese readers. What prompted them to join one of the largest book fairs in South China? Check the video to find out.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/international-participants-see-southern-china-book-fair-as-a-stage-for-culture-302532454.html

SOURCE GDToday

Posted in UncategorizedTagged PR Newswire

The Big One Won’t Wait: Structural Expert Urges Swift Action on Seismic Safety

Posted on August 18, 2025 by sHq_LoGiNz

The warnings are unmistakable: California’s cities, lawmakers, and residents must join forces to speed up seismic preparations. Structural expert Kyle Tourjé urges swift steps to break the cycle of inaction and start reinforcing buildings now—before the Big One hits.

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The recent Tsunami warnings issued along California’s coast following a magnitude-8.8 earthquake off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula may have seemed excessive—especially when only small waves reached the shore. But when it comes to California’s seismic readiness, one expert, Kyle Tourjé, Executive Vice President of Alpha Structural says, “There is no such thing as an overabundance of caution.” As a second-generation contractor, he has clocked many hours “in the trenches” working with his team of builders, engineers and structural specialists. He can confirm that despite decades of warnings, many California cities remain unprepared for the 99% chance of a magnitude 6.7 or larger earthquake striking California within the next 30 years. ⁽¹⁾ In fact, recent policy changes could set the state back decades in terms of disaster readiness.

Gutted Federal Grants Leave Retrofit Programs in Jeopardy
In May 2025, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) canceled $30–33 million in retrofit grants intended for California’s many high‑risk soft‑story apartment buildings.⁽²⁾ These buildings, common in Los Angeles and tracked for compliance by the Los Angeles Department of Building Safety (LABDS), have historically caused deadly collapses in events like the 1994 Northridge quake. ^(2,3)

Meanwhile, San Francisco enacted an ordinance on May 9, 2025, requiring preliminary structural assessments of nearly 4,000 non‑ductile concrete or tilt‑up buildings to be completed within 18 months. ^(4,5) This means owners must hire engineers to evaluate seismic risks, which can cost thousands per building. In contrast, Los Angeles passed an ordinance targeting both soft-story and non-ductile concrete buildings, but retrofitting non-ductile concrete structures presents far greater funding challenges because of their size, complexity, and high costs.

This blend of urgency and caution has experts calling for faster progress—pushing Californians from assessment to implementation and building the partnerships needed to safeguard the city’s buildings. “We can’t assess our way to safety,” said Tourjé. “Every year we delay retrofits, more lives and livelihoods are put at risk.”

Cut Through Fear with Action
“It’s easy to feel powerless in the face of natural disasters, but inaction is the worst choice,” said Tourjé. “Property owners want to retrofit their buildings, but they aren’t given many funding options. In a highly regulatory State like California, most building owners want to retrofit, but simply can’t afford to. I urge property owners to contact their elected state, county and city officials. Ask them to support low-interest loan programs that help building owners—not saddle them with more mandates and no reasonable funding solutions. If we want to make earthquake-resilient cities, we need to see incentives for that goal.”

Tourjé notes that seismic resilience requires action at every level. Local, county, and state governments can prioritize it by creating low-interest loan programs for building owners. Private partners can collaborate with local agencies to apply for multi-million-dollar grants, and some counties and municipalities already offer retrofit and mitigation funding aid. Statewide, the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program, the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), and the Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program can help fund seismic retrofitting and landslide mitigation projects.

“Act now,” Tourjé urged. “You can’t control when the next quake hits, but you can control how ready you are for it.” Here are some targeted tips:

Homeowners: There are a range of reinforcement steps to take. Seismic retrofitting or “bracing and bolting” foundations can secure some older houses.⁽⁶⁾Checking roof-to-wall connections and strengthening with framing anchors is an affordable retrofit, while concrete repairs, foundation replacement, and retaining walls are some more ambitious mitigations.
Commercial Property Owners: Earthquake resilience should be a core part of your maintenance strategy. Prioritize retrofitting high-risk elements that could cause collapse or severe injury. Working with a licensed structural engineer to assess vulnerabilities is essential, especially in older buildings or those with soft-story, older tilt-up or reinforced masonry, unreinforced masonry, or non-ductile concrete conditions.

Bottom line: Earthquake resilience isn’t just a safety precaution—it’s an imperative. Acting now can protect lives, reduce liability, and minimize downtime after the next big quake.

“We need to start reinforcing structures today. Earthquakes don’t wait for ordinances or funding cycles. There are no shortcuts to earthquake readiness,” said Tourjé. “But there are smart, manageable steps we can take.”

About Alpha Structural, Inc.
When he saw geological challenges trigger catastrophic building collapses, Dave Tourjé, founder of Alpha Structural, Inc., immersed himself in construction repairs and mitigation facing the iconic hillside homes and buildings throughout Los Angeles in the 1980s. He recognized a lack of skilled tradesmen and the need for repairs or upgrades to be engineered and constructed successfully. Today, Alpha Structural is Southern California’s premier structural repair and engineering firm, with over 30 years of experience in foundation repair, hillside stabilization, and seismic retrofitting. Alpha Structural is trusted by homeowners, municipalities, and commercial partners alike. For more information, visit https://www.alphastructural.com/.

References:

United States Geological Survey. What Are Earthquake Hazards/Risks Where I Live? U.S. Geological Survey, usgs.gov/faqs/what-are-earthquake-hazardsrisks-where-i-live
Mandatory Retrofit Programs: Soft-Story Retrofit Program. Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety, ladbs.org/services/core-services/plan-check-permit/plan-check-permit-special-assistance/mandatory-retrofit-programs/soft-story-retrofit-program.
Lin, Rong‑Gong II. “California FEMA Earthquake Retrofit Grants Canceled, Imperiling Critical Work, Schiff Says.” Los Angeles Times, 21 May 2025. Los Angeles Times.2025, latimes.com/california/story/2025-05-21/california-fema-earthquake-retrofit-grants-canceled-imperiling-critical-work-schiff-says
Ellis, Maliya. “San Francisco Fears Nearly 4,000 Buildings Could Be at Risk in an Earthquake. It Could Soon Know for Sure.” San Francisco Chronicle, 15 Apr. 2025. San Francisco Chronicle, sfchronicle.com/sf/article/earthquake-risk-buildings-20306985.php
Melgar, Meglar and Mandelman, Rafael .”Existing Building Code – Concrete Building Inventory Assessment.” City and County of San Francisco, File No. 250211, introduced 4 March 2025; passed 9 May 2025. sfgov.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=7253047&GUID=A3EB96B4-8493-4D1B-A23F-D7619C1E8B6D&Options=ID%7cText%7c&Search=
“Brace and Bolt Grants.” California Earthquake Authority, earthquakeauthority.com/prepare-your-house-earthquake-risk/brace-and-bolt-grants

Media Inquiries:
Karla Jo Helms
JOTO PR ™
727-777-4629
Jotopr.com

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SOURCE Alpha Structural

Posted in UncategorizedTagged PR Newswire

Flood Risk Assessments in a Changing Climate: Future-Proofing UK Investments

Posted on August 18, 2025 by sHq_LoGiNz

The UK is experiencing heightened flood risks, driven by climate change, extreme weather events, and urban expansion. For investors and asset managers, flood resilience is no longer just an environmental consideration, it is a critical factor in financial decision-making, asset valuation, and transactional due diligence. Understanding flood risk ensures informed investment strategies, mitigating liability, insurability challenges, and marketability concerns for properties and portfolios.

Beyond Standard Requirements: The Case for Climate Projections

Traditional Flood Risk Assessments (FRAs) often rely on historical flood data, but this fails to account for climate-driven risks. By integrating UK Climate Projections (UKCP) scenarios, investors can anticipate fluvial, pluvial, and coastal flood impacts, ensuring assets remain insurable, financially viable, and compliant with evolving regulations such as the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS S2), previously the Taskforce on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD).

Key Considerations for Investors and Developers

Fluvial, Pluvial, and Coastal Risks – Understanding diverse flood risks ensures effective asset protection and strategic investment decisions.
Regulatory Evolution & Market Dynamics – UK policy shifts demand climate resilience strategies for sustainable investments.
Insurance Feasibility & Asset Value Implications – Flood-exposed properties face higher premiums, reduced liquidity, and exit strategy limitations.

Leveraging Flood Maps for Smarter Site Selection

Modern Flood Maps, including those from the UK Environment Agency and other geospatial providers, offer vital insights into flood zones, historical flood extents, and modelled projections. These visual tools help developers and investors make informed decisions about site selection and risk exposure. However, Flood Maps alone are not sufficient for due diligence. They should be used alongside bespoke flood risk assessments and other relevant third-party reports that account for future climate scenarios and site-specific variables such as elevation, soil type, and drainage capacity. By combining mapping with relevant analytical assessments, stakeholders can avoid undervaluing, or overexposing assets.

Mitigation Strategies for Resilient Investments

Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) – Critical for insurance and investment viability, SuDS reduce flood risk while enhancing environmental sustainability.
Resilient Site Design & Adaptive Infrastructure – Flood-resistant materials, elevated structures, and site drainage enhancements protect assets from climate-driven risks.
Financial Risk Modelling for Investors – Incorporating flood exposure into financial forecasting supports accurate valuation and market positioning.

The Role of Flood Risk Assessments in ESG and Sustainability Reporting

Flood risk has become a key disclosure topic in ESG frameworks. Investors and publicly traded companies are expected to report climate-related risks, including flooding, in alignment with IFRS S2, CDP, and other global reporting standards. A thorough flood risk assessment supports transparency and demonstrates proactive risk management. These insights can also help companies meet stakeholder expectations and avoid reputational harm tied to climate inaction or underreported liabilities.

Who Needs a Flood Risk Assessment?

While commonly associated with large residential or commercial assets, flood risk assessments are essential across many sectors: retail, logistics, manufacturing, education, healthcare, and more. Transactions involving data centers, infrastructure assets, even brownfield with a view to redevelop in the future and often require flood risk evaluation, especially where Flood Maps demonstrate uncertainty or indicate moderate to high flood potential. Lenders, pension funds, and insurers may request an FRA during due diligence to assess long-term viability and ensure assets are not exposed to unmanaged risks.

Impact on Insurability, Site Value, and Long-Term Viability

Flood exposure influences capital investment, portfolio performance, and asset liquidity. Poor flood resilience can lead to:

Higher financing costs due to lender risk concerns.
Decreased asset attractiveness for institutional investors.
Challenges in securing property insurance and market valuation stability.

Linking FRAs to Transaction Support

Flood risk isn’t just a consideration; it is a transactional necessity. A thorough FRA ensures:

Clear risk evaluation for buyers and sellers.
Transparent insurance feasibility for investment decisions.
Strategic positioning of assets in evolving financial landscapes.

The Antea Group UK Advantage

At Antea Group UK, we provide specialist flood risk advisory, supporting investors, asset managers, and lenders with:

Comprehensive flood assessments tailored for transactions.
Climate resilience risk modelling to inform financial decisions.
Data-driven insights to protect asset liquidity and investment viability.
SuDS integration and resilience-based flood mitigation strategies.

Flood Risk Assessments Key Takeaways

Flood risk is a financial risk – Climate-driven flooding impacts asset value, insurance availability, and investor confidence.
Standard Flood Maps are not enough – They must be supplemented with bespoke, forward-looking flood risk assessments that incorporate climate projections.
Flood Risk Assessments are critical for transactions and future development – From supporting acquisitions and divestments to securing planning permission, FRAs play a pivotal role.
Mitigation strategies protect asset value – Tools like Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS), resilient design, and adaptive infrastructure are essential for long-term viability.
Flood risk assessments support ESG reporting – They align with frameworks like IFRS S2 and demonstrate climate resilience to stakeholders.
Investors across all sectors benefit – FRAs are essential not only for large developments but also for logistics, retail, data centers, and institutional portfolios.

Conclusion: Why Proactive Flood Risk Assessments Matter

For investors, flood risk directly impacts financial performance, transaction success, and long-term asset viability. By embedding climate resilience into Flood Risk Assessments, businesses can secure investment stability, insurance feasibility, and portfolio integrity. At Antea Group UK, we help clients navigate flood risk with confidence, ensuring their assets remain marketable, insurable, and financially viable in a changing climate.

Questions about navigating flood risk? Our experts are here to help. Reach out today!

Posted in UncategorizedTagged 3BL

500 Globalと国連開発計画が、アフリカのエコシステムを強化する新たなイノベーション・プログラムを開始

Posted on August 18, 2025 by sHq_LoGiNz

ケニア、ナイロビ–(BUSINESS WIRE)–（ビジネスワイヤ） — 500 Globalは、世界で最も活発なベンチャーキャピタル企業の1つ1です。同社は、国連開発計画（UNDP）と協力し、アフリカ全域のエコシステムを支援するため、ナイロビで初の創業者向けプログラムを開始することを発表しました2。ナイロビは、本年、500 GlobalとUNDPが共同で実施する3つのプログラムの開催地となります。これらのプログラムは共同設計されており、創業初期から成長段階まで、各スタートアップの成熟度に応じたアクセラレーション・プログラムを提供することで、あらゆる段階のスタートアップを支援します。最初のプログラムである「プレ・アクセラレーション・アカデミー」は、10月6〜12日に対面形式で実施され、創業者が事業の初期段階を進める際の支援を行います。2つ目のプログラムである「サステナブル・イノベーション・シード・アクセラレーター」は、持続可能なイノベーション・ソリューションを開発しているシード段階の創業者を支援します。 3つ目のプログラムである「500 Globalアクセラレーター・マネージ

Posted in UncategorizedTagged Business Wire

500 Global und UNDP starten Innovationsprogramme zur Stärkung des Ökosystems in Afrika

Posted on August 18, 2025 by sHq_LoGiNz

NAIROBI, Kenia–(BUSINESS WIRE)–500 Global, eine der weltweit aktivsten Venture-Capital-Gesellschaften1, gab heute den Start ihres ersten Gründerprogramms in Nairobi bekannt, das in Zusammenarbeit mit dem Entwicklungsprogramm der Vereinten Nationen (UNDP) das panafrikanische Ökosystem2 fördern soll. In diesem Jahr wird Nairobi Gastgeber für drei Programme sein, die 500 Global in Kooperation mit dem UNDP durchführen wird. Die Programme unterstützen Start-ups in jeder Phase – von der Gründung bi

Posted in UncategorizedTagged Business Wire

Southwest Gas Seeks to Move Forward with Renewable Natural Gas Supply from Food and Wastewater in California

Posted on August 18, 2025 by sHq_LoGiNz

CPUC filing marks a milestone in meeting Senate Bill 1440 goals and reducing climate pollutants

VICTORVILLE, Calif., Aug. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Southwest Gas Corporation (Southwest Gas) has submitted a procurement agreement to the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) that would bring renewable natural gas (RNG) to its California customers, marking an important step in supporting the state’s goals to reduce emissions from short-lived climate pollutants.

The agreement between Southwest Gas, Anew Climate LLC, and Anaergia, Inc. (Anaergia) subsidiary SoCal Biomethane, LLC (SCB) is the result of a competitive biomethane procurement process initiated by Southwest Gas. If approved, it will fulfill regulatory requirements under the CPUC’s Senate Bill (SB) 1440 Biomethane Procurement Program, which requires gas utilities to procure biomethane to help reduce methane emissions.

“Long-term offtake agreements from natural gas utilities support local and state climate goals,” said Ryan Childress, Managing Director of Low Carbon Fuels at Anew Climate. Under this agreement, RNG that is produced at the SCB facility located at the Victor Valley Wastewater Reclamation Authority (VVWRA) and is cleaned and upgraded to pipeline-quality natural gas, will be injected into Southwest Gas’ California system for distribution to its customers. The VVWRA treats wastewater from several local communities, including Victorville, Apple Valley, and Hesperia. The upgraded anaerobic digestion facility, owned and operated by Anaergia, co-digests food waste and municipal wastewater solids to generate biogas.

This RNG procurement agreement has the potential to reduce emissions from natural gas delivered to Southwest Gas’ California customers by up to 11,841 MTCO2e per year – equivalent to emissions from 2,762 gasoline-powered passenger vehicles driven for one year. Additionally, this agreement presents a first-time opportunity for an actively producing project to qualify under the SB 1440 Biomethane Procurement Program to deliver RNG in the state of California. “Anaergia is committed to supporting California in achieving its ambitious methane reduction goals through innovative partnerships that serve communities with local and resilient infrastructure solutions,” said Yaniv Scherson, COO of Anaergia.

The facility can accept up to 65,000 gallons of slurried food waste daily, diverting an estimated 104,000 tons of organic waste per year. This project not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions in support of California’s broader environmental goals, it also provides economic benefits to the community by employing local part-time and full-time staff.

VVWRA engages the community through educational outreach, facility tours, and a local Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) scholarship program, demonstrating the project’s broader environmental and educational impact. These efforts reflect aligned commitments between VVWRA and Southwest Gas to support local communities while advancing a sustainable energy future.

“At Southwest Gas, we are committed to providing access to safe, affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy,” said Karen S. Haller, President and CEO of Southwest Gas Holdings. “Delivering RNG to our customers from innovative projects like this one, demonstrates our dedication to environmental stewardship, long-term energy solutions, and making a positive impact in the communities we serve.”

To learn more about Southwest Gas’ RNG projects, visit www.swgas.com/rng.

About Southwest Gas
Southwest Gas Corporation is a dynamic energy company committed to exceeding the expectations of our over two million customers throughout Arizona, California, and Nevada by providing safe and reliable service while innovating sustainable energy solutions to fuel our communities’ growth. For more information about how Southwest Gas is supporting a safe, sustainable energy future, please visit swgas.com.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/southwest-gas-seeks-to-move-forward-with-renewable-natural-gas-supply-from-food-and-wastewater-in-california-302530782.html

SOURCE Southwest Gas Corporation

Posted in UncategorizedTagged PR Newswire

Meals, Miles, and a Mural: A Story of World Central Kitchen and FedEx

Posted on August 18, 2025 by sHq_LoGiNz

When disaster strikes, World Central Kitchen sets up food kitchens serving hot, delicious, and nutritious meals to those who have lost everything. They have served millions of meals around the world. FedEx provides World Central Kitchen with donated transportation support. This support ensures that critically needed materials and cookware reach, with speed and efficiency, devastated and often remote locations. The relationship is a testament to the power of collaboration, where logistics meets compassion.

Nowhere is this spirit of compassion more wonderfully captured than at the World Central Kitchen headquarters. There, a vibrant wall mural stands as a permanent tribute. It depicts a FedEx truck laden with supplies, while a FedEx plane soars overhead. The imagery specifically recalls relief efforts in Maui after the tragic wildfires, a powerful reminder of how their forces converged to help a community in despair.

Having its iconic trucks and planes portrayed in such a meaningful way is truly an honor for FedEx. It’s not just a painting; it’s a meaningful acknowledgement of a relationship built on shared values and a commitment to serving humanity. The mural serves as a daily inspiration, a visual representation of the bond between two organizations dedicated to delivering not just goods, but hope.

Click here to learn about FedEx Cares, our global community engagement program.

Posted in UncategorizedTagged 3BL

Developed With Accessibility Experts, Self-Ordering Kiosks Set New Standard for Inclusive Design

Posted on August 18, 2025 by sHq_LoGiNz

LINCOLNSHIRE, Ill., Aug. 18, 2025 /3BL/ – A new series of “Gen 2 Self-Ordering Kiosks” are purpose-built for users with vision, mobility and hearing disabilities. These kiosks, developed by digital display leader LG Electronics USA with feedback from noted accessibility consultant Tech for All (TFA), mark another step forward in LG’s ongoing commitment to create a “Better Life for All.”

The announcement comes as the country commemorates the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a historic milestone in advancing the rights of people with disabilities. LG’s new Gen 2 kiosks reflect the spirit of the ADA by going beyond compliance to deliver technology that is genuinely inclusive and empowering, according to Peter Kim, B2B Strategic Alliance Team Leader at LG Electronics USA.

“Technology should empower everyone,” said Kim. “By collaborating with Tech for All and working alongside people with disabilities throughout testing and development, accessibility isn’t treated as an add-on – it’s embedded in the DNA of these kiosks.”

Unlike many kiosks retrofitted to meet accessibility standards, LG’s Gen 2 kiosks (KC3P-M series) were designed intentionally with inclusion at their core. TFA started working with LG in April 2024, collaborating from initial design sketches through prototyping, avoiding costly late-stage hardware changes.

“Getting the accessibility in early is key. It’s very hard to go back and fix things,” said TFA’s Systems Accessibility Director Michael O’Hare. “It’s hard enough on a digital platform, but it’s very difficult on hardware…if you get something wrong, you’ve got to re-engineer it. That early engagement was key for this project.”

The Gen 2 Self-Ordering Kiosks are available in 22- and 27-inch screens, with high-brightness, low-reflectivity displays designed for visibility in diverse lighting conditions. They support both portrait and landscape modes, and are offered in three hardware versions: countertop, fixed-height pedestal, and motorized height-adjustable pedestal. The adjustable option especially benefits wheelchair users and people of varying heights, allowing comfortable, independent use.

Built to accommodate a wide range of accessibility needs, LG’s kiosks support a variety of assistive hardware and peripherals. These include advanced assistive technologies such as Vispero’s JAWS^® for Kiosk screen reader for audio navigation, Storm Interface’s tactile AudioNav™ keypads (6- and 9-key layouts) and SoundHound AI’s voice interface for hands-free commands. The kiosks also support Epson receipt printers and modular barcode/QR scanners, while a webcam accessory is in development to expand functionality.

Building on this foundation, the kiosk suite offers platform flexibility across diverse sectors and applications, including compatibility with Kokomo 24/7^® for health and safety management in education and clinical settings. Their modular, accessible design fits retail, transit, healthcare and hospitality environments.

This is TFA’s first involvement in kiosk hardware from the concept stage. O’Hare explained that while other available products may meet basic accessibility, LG’s Gen 2 solutions go beyond compliance to address real-world user needs. Continuous feedback and refinements during what was a highly collaborative development process resulted in a user-friendly final product.

“The collaboration, the back-and-forth review process, and being able to influence the design was really beneficial to both sides,” said O’Hare. Speaking to LG’s intent, he noted it was clear from the start that they were committed not only to meeting requirements, but to making a difference in the lives of the people who would be using the kiosk. “That was evident from the start,” he said. “It’s another step forward for accessible products.”

For more information on LG’s Gen 2 Self-Ordering Kiosks, click here. For high-resolution images, click here.

# # #

About Tech for All
Tech for All has deep expertise in applying universal design principles to solve complex accessibility challenges, including those presented by kiosks and other self-service systems. The company’s sole mission is to help its clients successfully address the challenges of making their products, services, websites, kiosks, and mobile apps accessible for all, including people with disabilities. It serves diverse industries and supports clients in the full range of accessibility needs, from audits to content remediation, coding support, product design consulting, training, and developing accessibility strategies and roadmaps. At the heart of Tech for All are the exceptionally talented, skilled, and experienced consultants who develop accessibility solutions and support successful implementation. Many of Tech for All’s experts are living with disabilities themselves. Each of Tech for All’s project teams includes seasoned consultants who bring specialized knowledge, capabilities, and solid experience to the task at hand. For more information, please visit www.tfaconsulting.com

About LG Electronics USA
LG Electronics USA serves commercial display customers in the U.S. lodging and hospitality, digital signage, systems integration, healthcare, education, government and industrial markets. Based in Lincolnshire, Ill., with its dedicated engineering and customer support team, LG’s U.S. Media Entertainment Solution B2B division delivers business-to-business technology solutions tailored to the particular needs of business environments. Eleven-time ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year LG Electronics USA Inc., headquartered in Englewood Cliffs, N.J., is the North American subsidiary of LG Electronics Inc., a leading smart life solutions company with annual global revenues of more than $60-billion from consumer electronics, home appliances, HVAC solutions and vehicle components. For more information, please visit www.LGSolutions.com. Stay up to date with @LGforBusinessUSA on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.

Contact:

LG Electronics USA
John I. Taylor
+ 1 202 719 3490
john.taylor@lge.com

Posted in UncategorizedTagged 3BL

Daniels Fund and Project Play Colorado Announce 2025 Colorado Youth Sports Giving Day

Posted on August 18, 2025 by sHq_LoGiNz

Two-week giving campaign includes more than $1.5M in matching funds to boost access to youth sports

DENVER, Aug. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — All Colorado kids deserve a chance to play sports – and the Daniels Fund and Project Play Colorado are making it possible. In collaboration with hundreds of youth sports nonprofits across the state, the Daniels Fund and Project Play Colorado will launch the second annual Colorado Youth Sports Giving Day on Tuesday, Sept. 3, at 6 p.m. MDT. The two-week giving campaign aims to raise critical funds to break down barriers and expand access to organized sports for Colorado’s youth.

Last year’s inaugural event was a game-changer, raising an incredible $3.7 million for 175 nonprofits dedicated to empowering kids ages 18 and younger to experience the joy and benefits of sports. The 2024 participants used donations in a variety of ways to get more kids in the game, including purchasing equipment and uniforms, growing programming, expanding to new communities and even funding new sports facilities.

A Community United for Youth Sports
From Sept. 3-17, individuals, businesses and community groups are invited to rally behind youth sports nonprofits. Donations will be made through the Colorado Gives platform at www.youthsportsgivingday.org, ensuring simple, flexible and secure giving. Contributions will help ensure every child in Colorado has a chance to play, grow and thrive.

“Giving every Colorado kid the chance to play sports isn’t just about the game. It’s about building grit, confidence and character,” said Hanna Skandera, President and CEO of the Daniels Fund. “Youth Sports Giving Day fuels opportunities for kids to learn teamwork, bounce back from setbacks and grow into strong, resilient leaders on and off the field.”

$1.5M Matching Fund Unlocks Opportunity
This year, thanks to tremendous support from sponsors, the campaign features a matching fund of more than $1.5 million. The first $1 million donated will be matched dollar-for-dollar, effectively doubling the impact of every early gift. Remaining matching funds will be awarded based on the overall totals raised by participating organizations throughout the campaign.

“Too many kids still face barriers to playing sports, especially those from low-income families and communities of color,” said Tom Farrey, Executive Director of the Aspen Institute’s Sports & Society Program. “We’re committed to changing that. Our goal is to make Colorado a leader in equitable youth sports access, showing what’s possible when communities come together. Colorado Youth Sports Giving Day is a powerful driver of that change, helping more kids leave the sidelines for play and experience the lifelong benefits of sports.”

Building Skills That Last a Lifetime
Research underscores the tremendous benefits of youth sports on long-term personal and professional development. Kids who play sports enjoy higher self-esteem, improved mental and physical health, stronger academic performance and better leadership skills. They’re not just more confident today – they’re more likely to have greater career earnings as adults.

Yet, financial barriers often keep kids, especially those in low-income households, from participating. According to Project Play Colorado, only 38% of children in households earning 0–99% of the federal poverty Level participate in sports, compared to 72% of children in households earning 400% or more of the federal poverty level. Colorado Youth Sports Giving Day aims to close this gap and make sports accessible to every child.

“Imagine this: 72% of higher-income kids have the chance to play sports, but only 38% of kids from low-income backgrounds get that same chance,” added Farrey. “Your support can help change this reality and give every child the opportunity to run onto the field, join a team and grow.”

At a time when childhood obesity rates are climbing, physical activity is declining and youth mental health challenges are on the rise, youth sports have never been more essential. The lessons of teamwork, discipline and belonging don’t stay on the field – they shape the leaders and contributors of tomorrow.

Sponsors of this year’s Colorado Youth Sports Giving Day include the Daniels Fund, Alpine Bank, The Anschutz Foundation, Bank of Colorado, Boettcher Foundation, El Pomar Foundation, Gary Community Ventures, Colorado Rockies, Google, Rose Community Foundation, Strohm Link Family Foundation, Telluray Foundation, UCHealth, The Weld Trust, Wold Foundation and Mike and Nancy Zoellner.

Support Our State of Play!
Every gift fuels opportunity, transforms communities and changes lives. Join in fostering a brighter, healthier future for Colorado’s youth. To learn more, to register as a participating nonprofit or to make a donation and support our State of Play, visit www.youthsportsgivingday.org.

Members of youth sports organizations from around the state will be at Coors Field on Sept. 3 to officially kick off the campaign during the Colorado Rockies home game. Baseball fans can join the fun, and $5 from each ticket sale will be added to the matching fund. Tickets can be purchased here.

The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum in Colorado Springs will celebrate this year’s Youth Sports Giving Day on Saturday, Sept. 6 by offering free admission. Families are invited to explore the museum’s world-class exhibits, meet Team USA athletes and connect with local youth sports organizations supporting efforts to increase youth participation in sports across the state. While walk-up tickets are available, guests are encouraged to reserve free admission tickets online.

About Colorado Youth Sports Giving Day
Launched in 2024, Colorado Youth Sports Giving Day is a collaborative effort between Project Play Colorado, Daniels Fund and hundreds of local nonprofit organizations supporting youth sports across Colorado. Through this campaign, nonprofits offering organized sports for Colorado youth ages 18 and younger raise essential funds to get more kids playing sports. Each year, Coloradans will be asked to give generously to ensure all children in our state can enjoy the many benefits of athletics. To learn more, visit www.youthsportsgivingday.org.

About the Daniels Fund
The Daniels Fund, a private charitable foundation established by cable television pioneer Bill Daniels, provides grants to highly effective nonprofits and college scholarships to the next generation of America’s leaders. Through its Big Bets, it invests in solutions tackling some of the most complex challenges with innovations that have the power to scale. The Daniels Fund is making a Big Bet in youth sports, aiming to give one million youth the opportunity to compete in sports by 2030 and build the core life skills that increase achievement, leadership, teamwork, confidence and resilience. Visit DanielsFund.org to learn more.

About Project Play Colorado
Project Play Colorado is a collective impact initiative comprised of state-level entities and community organizations aiming to increase opportunities for youth of all ages to participate in sports. It is the first statewide initiative of Project Play, an Aspen Institute Sports & Society Program-led effort that develops insights, ideas and opportunities to build healthy children and communities through sports. Since 2013, the award-winning initiative has convened leaders, identified gaps in access to quality sport activity and mobilized organizations for action. To learn more, visit www.projectplay.org.

Media Contact:
Caitlin Jenney, GFM|CenterTable
cjenney@gfmcentertable.com
www.youthsportsgivingday.org

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/daniels-fund-and-project-play-colorado-announce-2025-colorado-youth-sports-giving-day-302532204.html

SOURCE Daniels Fund

Posted in UncategorizedTagged PR Newswire

From Ideas to Impact: Meet Natalie Ruiz

Posted on August 18, 2025 by sHq_LoGiNz

Originally published on GoDaddy Resource Library

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your career journey, to date.

Hi, I’m Natalie! I’m currently a Senior HR Operations Analyst at GoDaddy, but my journey here started back in 2020 as an HR Operations Intern. At the time, I was studying Human Resources Management and Business Analytics at the University of Iowa’s Tippie College of Business, and the internship felt like the perfect intersection of both disciplines. After completing the internship, I joined the team full-time in 2021. Since then, I’ve graduated from the University of Iowa and relocated to Southern California, where I’m now based. My time at GoDaddy has been full of learning, growth, and the chance to work on meaningful projects that bring people, process, and technology together.

What real-life problems does your team solve?

I help support our HR teams that in turn support GoDaddy’s employees, primarily through our ServiceNow platform. When an employee reaches out to an HR representative using our Get Help portal, they are doing so through avenues that myself or other members of my team helped pave with close partnership among our HR and ServiceNow Engineering teams.

I’ve found my niche in HR Operations within reporting, taking data housed in ServiceNow, visualizing it in dashboards, and further analyzing that information. I analyze various types of data to answer questions such as: “How long does it take our HR Partners to resolve employee inquiries?”, “Are employees satisfied with the answers they receive?”, and “Which types of inquiries require multiple steps to resolve, and how can we streamline these processes?” My team’s goal is to make the bridge between our employees and HR Partners as seamless as possible, and I help surface the data that paints that picture.

What has been your most significant learning experience within the past year?

I’ve been leaning into the experimentation mindset that has really picked up speed company-wide. Embracing this has helped me become more courageous and creative in my work.

I’ve learned that sometimes, the best way to move forward is to simply give an idea a shot rather than overthink it. Overthinking tends to stall progress, while trying and learning from what doesn’t work keeps things moving. Not everything works the first time, and that’s okay!

How has HR Operations evolved in recent years?

I’ve seen HR Operations evolve significantly since I joined GoDaddy, especially as our workforce continues to grow globally. Our team plays a central role in making sure HR processes are both efficient and consistent across the regions we support. One of our biggest challenges and opportunities is creating a seamless experience for employees, regardless of their location. To do this, we have to design systems that are both intuitive and scalable, while considering local legislation and customs. It’s one of the many elements that makes working within the HR Technology space complex yet rewarding.

What aspects of GoDaddy’s company culture do you appreciate the most?

I feel there’s a strong spirit of collaboration at GoDaddy and a shared willingness to help each other out to reach better outcomes. People are super approachable, curious, and genuinely invested in producing meaningful work.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Outside of work, I love diving into the arts and music scene. I’ve been oil painting for a few years and recently started exploring ceramics, as well. Taking art classes has become one of my favorite ways to express myself and connect with the creative community here in San Diego. As for music, I don’t play any instruments and I save my singing for solo car rides, but I’m a dedicated concertgoer. If one of my favorite bands is in town, there’s a good chance I’ll be there.

Are you enjoying this series and want to know more about life at GoDaddy? Check out our GoDaddy Life social pages! Follow us to meet our team, learn more about our culture (Teams, ERGs, Locations), careers, and so much more. You’re more than just your day job, so come propel your career with us.

Posted in UncategorizedTagged 3BL