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FDA Clears Novalung For Treatment Of Acute Respiratory And Cardiopulmonary Failure

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Fresenius Medical Care North America Announces First Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) System Cleared For Long-Term Use

Fresenius Medical Care North America (FMCNA) today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cleared Novalung®, a heart and lung support system for the treatment of acute respiratory or cardiopulmonary failure. Novalung is the first extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) system to be cleared for more than six hours of use as extracorporeal life support.

“Novalung is a critical leap forward in providing heart and lung support therapy for a longer duration than ever available before,” said Mark Costanzo, President of Renal Therapies Group, the technologies and pharmaceuticals division of FMCNA. “We’ve applied our leadership and technical expertise in renal medical devices to elevate standards for acute respiratory and cardiopulmonary failure treatments and technologies. We’re proud to broaden our care offerings to provide new therapies for patients with acute cardiopulmonary conditions.”

Patients in acute respiratory or cardiopulmonary failure often struggle to get oxygen into their bloodstream or expel carbon dioxide out of their bodies, resulting in dangerously low levels of oxygen. This acute low oxygen state can result from a wide range of conditions. Recent research has shown a significant increase in the use of ECMO with evidence of improved survival rates and no increase in hospitalization costs.1

The Novalung ECMO system pumps and oxygenates a patient’s blood, reducing the stress on damaged heart and lungs. Additionally, Novalung offers an alternative to the need for invasive mechanical ventilation, which can cause additional lung injury as a result of the air pressure required. Novalung offers a portable therapy solution designed to improve clinical outcomes and accommodate various clinical care settings such as intensive care units, operating rooms, cardiac catheterization labs, and emergency departments.  

“A long-term, effective ECMO solution gives critically-ill patients the time and support needed to heal,” said Dr. Robert Bartlett, Professor Emeritus, Section of General Surgery, Division of Acute Care Surgery, University of Michigan School of Medicine. “The system’s pressure sensor technology ensures continuous monitoring and accurate flow control of each patient’s blood, allowing the care team the flexibility needed to treat the underlying health issues.”

The use of Novalung as an ECMO device for critical care has several benefits, including minimizing the need for invasive ventilation, the ability to provide support after multi-organ injuries, and better survival outcomes for patients in cardiac arrest. This integrated heart and lung therapy platform provides the lifesaving support needed for patients in critical conditions.

FMCNA expects Novalung to be available within the U.S. mid-year 2020. To learn more, please visit fmcna.com/novalung.

INDICATIONS FOR USE

The Novalung System is indicated for long-term (>6 hours) respiratory/cardiopulmonary support that provides assisted extracorporeal circulation and physiologic gas exchange (oxygenation and CO2 removal) of the patient’s blood in adults with acute respiratory failure or acute cardiopulmonary failure, where other available treatment options have failed, and continued clinical deterioration is expected or the risk of death is imminent. These may include:

  • Failure to wean from cardiopulmonary bypass following cardiac surgery in adult patients
  • ECMO-assisted cardiopulmonary resuscitation in adults

Caution: Federal (US) law restricts these devices to sale by or on the order of a physician.

Note: Read the Instructions for Use for safe and proper use of these devices. For a complete description of hazards, contraindications, side effects, and precautions, see full package labeling at www.fmcna.com.  

 

About Fresenius Medical Care North America

Fresenius Medical Care North America (FMCNA) is the premier healthcare company focused on providing the highest quality care to people with renal and other chronic conditions. Through its industry-leading network of dialysis facilities, outpatient cardiac and vascular labs and urgent care centers, Fresenius Medical Care North America provides coordinated healthcare services at pivotal care points for hundreds of thousands of chronically ill customers throughout the continent. As the world’s largest fully integrated renal company, it offers specialty pharmacy and laboratory services, and manufactures and distributes the most comprehensive line of dialysis equipment, disposable products and renal pharmaceuticals. For more information, visit the FMCNA website at https://fmcna.com.

 

Disclaimer
This release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to various risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those described in these forward-looking statements due to certain factors, including changes in business, economic and competitive conditions, regulatory reforms, foreign exchange rate fluctuations, uncertainties in litigation or investigative proceedings, and the availability of financing. These and other risks and uncertainties are detailed in Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA’s reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA does not undertake any responsibility to update the forward-looking statements in this release.

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Front Page/ Texas

Jacobs-Stantec Team Selected by US Army Corps of Engineers to Design $1.9 Billion Levee and Floodwall System Along Texas Coastline

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The nearly 27-mile system will provide coastal storm risk management and ecosystem restoration for the southeastern part of the Greater Houston area

 

Jacobs (NYSE:J) and Stantec, operating as the Galveston Coastal Services Joint Venture, have been selected by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Galveston District, to design a 26.7-mile-long levee and floodwall system along the coastline near Galveston, Texas. The USACE has estimated this to be an eight-year, $1.9 billion construction effort, known as the Orange County Coastal Storm Risk Management project (or simply “Orange”), that will increase the area’s preparedness to respond to natural disasters and disturbances. It will also increase resistance to long-term impacts due to climate change – including sea level rise, land subsidence, increased frequency of abnormally heavy rainfall events and regional drought.

Orange centers on a stretch of the upper Texas coast from Sabine Pass to Galveston Bay, and includes gulf and bay waters, barrier islands, marshes, coastal wetlands, rivers and streams and adjacent areas that make up the interrelated coastal space. This area is repeatedly at risk from substantial wind and surge damage. The resulting shoreline erosion has caused the destruction of nationally significant wetlands, land loss and damage to homes, commercial property and State Highway 87. Over the past 10 years, the area has been altered both physically and economically by extreme weather events such as Hurricane Harvey, which caused billions in damages.

“A fundamental element of Jacobs’ purpose is helping clients solve some of the toughest problems, and Orange – a strategically important resiliency investment by USACE – is a prime example of such a project and an early step in a larger overall national civil works investment strategy that Jacobs will support, leveraging our specialized capabilities in sustainable and resilient infrastructure planning and design,” said Jacobs Senior Vice President of Federal & Environmental Solutions Pankaj Duggal. “Essentially, we are creating a coastal spine that will help protect the Texas coast, providing a solution that not only benefits this area long-term, but the millions of people and businesses in this region that are most impacted by weather.”

The project is designed to strengthen coastal facilities and infrastructure on which many energy systems, markets, consumers and residents depend. Texas, along with Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama, are home to more than 80% of the nation’s energy resources. Within the greater Houston Metropolitan area alone, there are nearly seven million people, three airports that serve more than 58 million passengers a year and more than 575 miles of highways.

“The economics of flood protection are changing, and proactive measures are critical to a community’s social and economic resilience strategy. For each dollar spent on resilient building and construction, six dollars are saved in recovery costs,” said Stantec SVP and Sector Leader for Water Resources John Montgomery. “Our JV consists of leading project management with a track record of delivering large-scale infrastructure projects that will reduce the impacts of disasters and fortify our domestic energy security.”

Measurable Impact

Orange consists of seven design packages for coastal storm risk management, from the edge of the Sabine and Neches River floodplains, to the vicinity of Orangefield, Texas. The project will include:

  • 6 miles of new levees
  • 7 miles of new concrete floodwalls and gates
  • Seven new pump stations to mitigate interior flooding during surge events
  • 453 acres of marsh restored through a mitigation plan
  • 560 acres of forested wetlands preserved

Also encompassing navigable sector gates to reduce surge penetration, this project is one of many coastal storm risk management measures for the region designed to combat these increasingly frequent historical storm conditions. Construction is anticipated to begin in 2022 and project completion is expected in 2026.

Approximately 540 JV and team members across multiple disciplines will execute and deliver the design packages in roughly 18 to 24 months. In addition to the Jacobs-Stantec team, this partnership includes 20 local, small business enterprises representing 40% of the design budget. Construction is anticipated to begin in 2022 and project completion is expected in 2026.

This project was authorized under the Sabine Pass to Galveston Bay Study. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Galveston District and the Texas General Land Office completed the Sabine Pass to Galveston By Coastal Storm Risk Management Project study in Dec. 2017, which examined coastal storm risk management approaches for the Sabine and Brazoria regions. The study recommended constructing new levees in Orange County and raising the existing levees in Port Arthur and Vicinity, and Freeport and Vicinity Hurricane Flood Protection System, to reduce the risks of tropic storm surge. The project is currently in the design phase and is subject to change.

About Jacobs:
At Jacobs, we’re challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world’s most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission-critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting-edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good. With $13 billion in revenue and a talent force of approximately 52,000, Jacobs provides a full spectrum of professional services including consulting, technical, scientific and project delivery for the government and private sector. Visit jacobs.com and connect with Jacobs on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter.

About Stantec:
Communities are fundamental. Whether around the corner or across the globe, they provide a foundation, a sense of place and of belonging. That’s why at Stantec, we always design with community in mind. We care about the communities we serve—because they’re our communities too. This allows us to assess what’s needed and connect our expertise, to appreciate nuances and envision what’s never been considered, to bring together diverse perspectives so we can collaborate toward a shared success. We’re designers, engineers, scientists, and project managers, innovating together at the intersection of community, creativity, and client relationships. Balancing these priorities results in projects that advance the quality of life in communities across the globe. Stantec trades on the TSX and the NYSE under the symbol STN. Visit us at stantec.com or find us on social media.

Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking statements as such term is defined in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and such statements are intended to be covered by the safe harbor provided by the same. Statements made in this release that are not based on historical fact are forward-looking statements. We base these forward-looking statements on management’s current estimates and expectations as well as currently available competitive, financial and economic data. Forward-looking statements, however, are inherently uncertain. There are a variety of factors that could cause business results to differ materially from our forward-looking statements. For a description of some additional factors that may occur that could cause actual results to differ from our forward-looking statements see our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 27, 2019, and in particular the discussions contained under Item 1 – Business; Item 1A – Risk Factors; Item 3 – Legal Proceedings; and Item 7 – Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, as well as the Company’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company is not under any duty to update any of the forward-looking statements after the date of this press release to conform to actual results, except as required by applicable law.

Front Page/ Texas

FASTSIGNS® Recruiting Franchise Candidates At National Business Media Show In Santa Clara, California, Feb. 7-8

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Leading Sign, Graphics and Visual Communications Franchisor Continues to Grow Its Successful Co-brand and Conversion Program throughout the West Coast and Nationwide

FASTSIGNS International, Inc., franchisor of FASTSIGNS®, the leading sign, graphics, and visual communications franchise, announced today that it will be attending and sponsoring the National Business Media Show at the Santa Clara Convention Center in Santa Clara, California, Feb. 7-8, 2020.

 

As part of its aggressive growth throughout the West Coast and nationwide, the brand is recruiting business owners interested in adding a FASTSIGNS to their existing business or fully converting their store to a FASTSIGNS franchise. Currently, franchise opportunities exist throughout California in markets like Modesto, Stockton, Bakersfield, Monterey, downtown Sacramento, and Coachella Valley, in addition to communities in the San Francisco and Los Angeles areas.

 

“FASTSIGNS’ co-brand and conversion programs not only help business owners diversify their product lines and services to meet the growing demand for digital and state-of-the-art signage, but also align with one of the most trusted names in the signage and visual communications industry,” said Mark Jameson, Executive Vice President of Franchise Support and Development. “When entrepreneurs partner with FASTSIGNS, they immediately benefit from our brand recognition and gain access to an advertising fund 2.5 times greater than our next largest competitor, as well unmatched training and support and a nationwide network of franchisees.”

FASTSIGNS has helped countless owners of print shops, photography studios, camera stores, embroidery shops, and more add a FASTSIGNS to their existing business or fully convert their store to a FASTSIGNS franchise. FASTSIGNS franchisees receive ongoing training and support to stay ahead of the competition and exceed the needs of their local business community. Both the co-brand franchise opportunity and conversion can be started with only $15,000 down on the initial franchise fee.

“I guarantee your printing business will benefit from the combination of the two businesses. Not to mention the incremental growth and profitability from the signs and visual graphics business that you will experience. It’s a great combination,” said Richard Helmey, FASTSIGNS® franchisee and owner of TrueColor Graphics in Houston, Texas.

FASTSIGNS also offers a special incentive for first responders, including paramedics, emergency medical technicians, police officers, sheriffs, and firefighters, which includes a 50% reduction on the franchise fee — a savings of $24,875.

FASTSIGNS reported exceptional results in 2019, including the signing of over 35 franchise agreements in the U.S and Canada to develop new, co-branded, and conversion centers and the opening of more than 30 locations. Internationally, FASTSIGNS opened its first locations in Chile, Malta, and France, and signed an additional master franchise agreement to develop centers in the Dominican Republic.

This year, FASTSIGNS is aiming to sign 45+ franchise agreements and enter several new countries. In the U.S., the brand is targeting growth in markets like Michigan, Southern California, Florida, New York City, Boston, and throughout the Northeast Corridor. FASTSIGNS also is continuing to seek qualified candidates to grow its international footprint in target markets throughout the world, including Québec, New Zealand, and Brazil, as well as countries throughout North Africa, Southwest Asia, Latin America, and Europe.

FASTSIGNS is consistently ranked as a top franchise opportunity. In 2020, Entrepreneur magazine named FASTSIGNS the #1 franchise opportunity in its category and #55 overall on its annual Franchise 500® list, making it the only sign, graphics, and visual communications franchise to be recognized in the top 100. Additionally, Franchise Gator named FASTSIGNS to its Top 100 Franchises of 2020 list. In 2019, Entrepreneur named FASTSIGNS one of the Top Franchises for Veterans and the brand also was recognized in Franchise Business Review’s Top Franchises for Veterans report, was named to the America’s Best Franchises to Buy list by Forbes magazine, and made Franchise Direct’s list of the Top 100 Franchises. Franchise Business Review also has recognized FASTSIGNS as one of the “Best of the Best” for franchisee satisfaction for the last 10 years and its Top 50 Franchises for Women and Top Service Franchise lists in 2019. The Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) awarded FASTSIGNS International, Inc. the Franchisees’ Choice Designation for the seventh consecutive year for its strong relationship with Canadian franchisees, as well as extensive franchisee training and support.

About FASTSIGNS®
FASTSIGNS International, Inc. celebrates its 35th anniversary in business in 2020 as the leading sign and visual communications franchisor in North America, and is the worldwide franchisor of more than 700 independently owned and operated FASTSIGNS® centers in nine countries including the United States, Canada, Chile, England, Grand Cayman, Puerto Rico, the United Arab Emirates, Malta, and Australia (where centers operate as SIGNWAVE®).

FASTSIGNS locations provide comprehensive signage and visual graphic solutions to help companies of all sizes and across all industries attract more attention, communicate their message, promote their products, help visitors find their way and extend their branding across all of their customer touch points. FASTSIGNS has been ranked the #1 franchise opportunity in its category in Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500 for the past four years, a 2019 Top Franchises for Veterans by Franchise Business Review and a 2019 America’s Best Franchises to Buy list by Forbes magazine.

Learn more about sign and visual graphic solutions or find a location at fastsigns.com. Follow the brand on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/fastsigns, Twitter @FASTSIGNS or Facebook at facebook.com/FASTSIGNS. For information about the FASTSIGNS franchise opportunity, contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@fastsigns.com or call 214.346.5679).

Introducing Series E

Featured/ Front Page/ Technology

Esports Arena To Launch A Semi-Professional Gaming Series; Expands Gaming Arenas In Supercenters To Eighteen Locations

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This New Esports Ecosystem, Called Esports Arena Series E, Debuts In May 2020 With Qualifiers Beginning February 6, 2020

Esports Arena is launching a first of its kind semi-professional gaming ecosystem, providing gaming contracts and sponsorships to forty individual competitors. This ecosystem, coined Esports Arena Series E, debuts May 2020 with qualifiers running February 6, 2020 through March 27, 2020. Additionally, Esports Arena will expand its footprint of competitive video gaming facilities in select supercenters, opening eleven new in-store arenas by April 2020 with the support of Xbox. This will bring the total to eighteen in-store arenas and two standalone facilities, all of which will be host locations for Esports Arena Series E.

The inaugural season of Esports Arena Series E will feature game titles Fortnite and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. All locations will have their own professional player in both game titles who will compete live across all twenty Esports Arenas throughout a 20-week series. Players contracted by Esports Arena will represent a premier brand, including: Cheez-It, G Fuel, Intel, MTN DEW® AMP® GAME FUEL®, Nerf, Pop Tarts, Pringles and Rice Krispies Treats.

“The announcement of Esports Arena Series E is the next step in providing opportunities for gamers to realize their potential and become a contracted professional within the Esports Arena ecosystem,” said Tyler Endres, CEO of Esports Arena. “Our national expansion provides accessibility to gamers throughout the United States who may otherwise not have competitive gaming opportunities.”

Weekly Series E matches will be streamed out of Esports Arena’s production facility and hosted on walmart.com/esportsarena. Arenas inside supercenters will provide high end gaming PC’s and consoles for use, and a specialty retail sales experience with the Esports Arena Pro Shop, which will carry top of the line gaming equipment and accessories as well as snacks and beverages.

For more information on the Esports Arena Series E, sponsorship opportunities and the list of Esports Arena locations visit esportsarena.com.

About Esports Arena, LLC
Esports Arena is the first dedicated esports facility in North America, opening in Orange County, California in 2015. Esports Arena is the world’s premier esports venue, community hub and production company hosting daily video game competitions, producing unique digital content while building and sustaining audiences over an extended period of time.

Perla SHE Award Photo

Front Page/ Texas

Houston-Based Serial Entrepreneur, International Speaker Perla Tamez Wins SHE Award of Excellence

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Perla Tamez, a Houston-based successful serial entrepreneur, was recognized for her accomplishments in her field and to the Latina community as she received the SHE Award of Excellence during the fifth edition of the Seminar for Hispanic Entrepreneurs (SHE) in Antwerp, Belgium last year.

Tamez is the CEO of the McAllen, Texas-based Dynamic Rehab Group, the largest therapy provider in the South Texas area. She provides speech therapy services to pediatric patients. She is also a contributing author in Today’s Inspired Latina Vol. VI, a book series that presenting inspirational and uplifting stories about successful Latinas. As an international speaker, Tamez will give presentations at the Independent Women’s Summit in Dubai, United Arab Emirates and the Today’s Inspired Latina International Summit in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

Created by Business Fit Magazine Founder Veronica Sosa, SHE is an organization for Hispanic women that help them to achieve their goals and reach their balance between body, mind and spirit. The organization makes its presence in many European countries such as Germany, France, Belgium, Italy, England, Spain, Switzerland as well as in the United States and Canada. There are plans to extend the membership to Central and South America in 2020.

The seminar attracted more than 130 Latina entrepreneurs residing in central Europe from various fields such as business, media, activism, social care, politics, law, charity, manufacturing, sports, education, the health sector, real estate development, entertainment, cinema, art and fashion.

Tamez, a featured seminar speaker, accepted the award with graciousness and gratitude from being selected among her Latina business peers.

“I was honored to have been recognized by empowered women as a trail blazer for Latinas,” Tamez said. “As successful Latinas, united we stand and together we are powerful!”

Sosa created the SHE Award for Excellence in 2018 to recognize a Latina for her examples of motivating and exalting female leadership throughout the world.

“Perla Tamez is the genuine representation of this award,” Sosa said. “The recipients’ bravery, business lucidity, work capacity, solidarity and commitment to society, exalt their great human condition and are the greatest motivation for their peers. All this and more make these Latinas worthy of the SHE Award for excellence.”

About Perla Tamez:

Perla Tamez is an inspired visionary with a keen ability to motivate others to discover their true potential. With candor, humor, and wisdom, she challenges teams to transform their experiences with adversity into tales of hope and triumph. Perla’s vast entrepreneurial endeavors, educational experiences, and international exposure have positioned her to communicate with broad audiences in a manner that is heartfelt, effective, and captivating. For more information, visit http://www.perlatamezinspiration.com.

About SHE:

Founded by Veronica Sosa, the goal of SHE is to unite Spanish speakers, in a cooperative movement, that could represent the opportunity to develop projects and ideas, to boost and make visible their creators, before society. That includes overcoming language, cultural, and origin barriers. The organization’s slogan—”Together is better”— captures the spirit of integration, which today represents a philosophy of union and equity among its members. For more information, contact Sosa at info@hispanasemprendedoras.eu or visit the website at

http://evento.hispanasemprendedoras.eu

 

FirstNet Logo

Blog/ Breaking News/ Featured/ Front Page/ Technology/ Texas

FirstNet Momentum: Platform Passes 750,000 Connections, Performs Faster Than Any Commercial Network for Second Consecutive Quarter

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Public safety personnel across the country continue to turn to FirstNet to advance their routine and emergency responses. Nearly 9,000 public safety agencies and organizations have subscribed to FirstNet, accounting for over 750,000 connections in service. And the numbers are growing daily.

Why? Because the FirstNet communications platform – built with AT&T* and the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority) – offers first responders and those critical to their response a purpose-built experience they can’t get anywhere else.

“FirstNet is designed to be different because that’s what public safety specifically asked for. This is the only platform that has been built from the ground up just for this community, and we believe FirstNet is the most important network in the country because it serves public safety across the country,” said Chris Sambar, senior vice president, FirstNet Program at AT&T. “As we grow and evolve FirstNet, we’re proud to connect more members of the public safety community and further empower the men and women we rely on to keep us safe with the advanced communications capabilities needed to help strengthen their mission delivery.”

For the second consecutive quarter, FirstNet brings its subscribers the fastest overall network experience. According to the results of tests taken with Speedtest as analyzed by AT&T, FirstNet once again performed faster than any commercial network.1

These results come as the number of markets with the FirstNet Band 14 spectrum nears 650.2 We’re moving quickly with about 65% of our nationwide coverage targets completed well ahead of schedule. The more we roll out Band 14 across the country, the more we’re able to provide first responders with truly dedicated coverage and capacity when they need it. This helps them reliably connect to critical information, communicate and coordinate.   

And in the coming months, FirstNet subscribers will be getting another boost in their connectivity. AT&T and Assured Wireless Corporation are working together to develop safe and effective solutions that bring first responders the true benefits of high-power user equipment (HPUE). Following 3GPP standards, HPUE solutions can transmit at stronger signals. This signal increase can only be done using the FirstNet Band 14 spectrum.

That’s huge for public safety. For rural and remote responders, HPUE could significantly increase their coverage area. For urban and suburban responders, this will help solve the common challenge of indoor coverage. The stronger signal will better assist those connecting from hard-to-reach places like basements, elevators, stairwells and parking garages, helping first responders communicate inside and out.   

“Our collaboration with AT&T is a perfect example of technology’s power to do great things for public safety,” said Tom Bilotta, CEO of Assured Wireless Corporation. “The standards-based HPUE solutions that we plan to bring forward will build on the unique capabilities of FirstNet to further strengthen first responders’ ability to communicate no matter where their mission takes them.”

Increased Reliability, Redundancy and Resiliency Through Disasters
Since establishing the FirstNet Response Operations Program a year ago, public safety has turned to FirstNet to help support them during both planned and emergency events. This year alone, we have helped first responders stay connected during nearly 75 emergency events. From wildfires and floods, to a tropical storm turned hurricane and tornadoes, to search and rescue missions in remote locations and more, FirstNet has been there.

“The support we received from FirstNet during the record rainfall and flooding earlier this year was second to none,” said Keenan Campbell, Situation Unit Leader – Illinois Incident Management Team. “Having a FirstNet SatCOLT rapidly deployed and onsite to keep our command post connected to our broader team was an invaluable asset to our mission, and it gives me peace of mind knowing that I have a network that will be there when and where I need it.”

Plus, we’ve supported agencies at more than 100 planned events this year, including coast-to-coast 4th of July celebrations. First responders have also relied on FirstNet during music festivals, sporting events and speaker rallies for public officials. 

When emergencies strike, it’s also critical that 911 call centers have the tools they need to maintain operations. To help 911 communicators stay connected during potential service-impacting situations, 911 call centers can now use FirstNet as a wireless backup solution to AT&T ESInet™ – a smarter, modernized 911 call-routing service.

This backup capability is enabled by AT&T Private Mobile Connection, which connects AT&T ESInet to FirstNet for added redundancy. If AT&T ESInet detects a failure in the primary connection to the PSAP, emergency calls will be automatically routed over FirstNet. Keeping PSAPs connected during critical times helps improve emergency response and enables 911 communicators to provide seamless service to the community until the primary connection is restored.

Enhanced Situational Awareness and Security
The FirstNet communications platform goes beyond delivering reliable and redundant connectivity to public safety. It builds on that connectivity with innovative apps that can cost-effectively transform capabilities, drive efficiencies, enhance situational awareness and increase security. New apps launched in and coming to the FirstNet App Catalog – created specifically for public safety – include:

  • FirstNet Assist – Now FirstNet Certified™ and included in the FirstNet App Catalog, this solution allows public safety support personnel in the field to see active events and incidents within a 50-mile radius and request device uplift. This app also provides all users with direct access to dedicated FirstNet Care specialists specially trained to help first responders and performs device diagnostics.
  • Response for FirstNet – This low-cost, simple-to-use situational awareness platform now provides new features to FirstNet subscribers, like live location, media sharing and team mobilization, to support day-to-day and emergency operations.
  • FirstNet Cybersecurity Awareness – When it comes to cybersecurity, it’s no secret that people are considered the first line of defense. This holds true for public safety. So, this app, coming soon to the FirstNet App Catalog, will provide public safety agencies with easy-to-use educational materials that help keep cybersecurity top of mind. The app will also include training videos that simply break down cybersecurity concerns like social engineering, phishing and spoofing, so first responders have the tools they need to stay cyber-aware and cyber-safe.

“As we planned for FirstNet, we worked hand-in-hand with public safety across the nation to help us design a network to meet their critical communications needs,” said Jeff Bratcher, Chief Technology and Operations Officer, FirstNet Authority. “We are pleased with the progress AT&T continues to make to fulfill the promise of FirstNet – delivering the tools public safety asked for to help with their lifesaving mission. This is public safety’s network, and we will continue to engage with them to advance their network, FirstNet, for years to come.”

FirstNet is public safety’s dedicated, nationwide communications platform. It’s bringing public safety communications into the 21st century with new, innovative capabilities to strengthen first responders’ incident response. And it’s helping them connect to the critical information they need – every day and in every emergency.

Attending the APCO 2019 Conference & Expo in Baltimore? Stop by booth #623 to learn more about FirstNet or check out FirstNet Assist in the New Product Zone. More on FirstNet can also be found here.

1Based on AT&T analysis of Ookla® Speedtest Intelligence® data average download speeds for Q2 2019. Ookla trademarks used under license and reprinted with permission.
2Markets defined by FCC CMAs.

*About AT&T Communications
We help family, friends and neighbors connect in meaningful ways every day. From the first phone call 140+ years ago to mobile video streaming, we innovate to improve lives. We have the nation’s fastest wireless network.** And according to America’s biggest test, we have the nation’s best wireless network.*** We’re building FirstNet just for first responders and creating next-generation mobile 5G. With DIRECTV, DIRECTV NOW and WatchTV, we deliver entertainment people love to talk about. Our smart, highly secure solutions serve nearly 3 million global businesses – nearly all of the Fortune 1000. And worldwide, our spirit of service drives employees to give back to their communities.

AT&T Communications is part of AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T). Learn more at att.com/CommunicationsNews.

AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc. Additional information about AT&T products and services is available at about.att.com. Follow our news on Twitter at @ATT, on Facebook at facebook.com/att and on YouTube at youtube.com/att.

© 2019 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. AT&T, the Globe logo and other marks are trademarks and service marks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners.

**Based on analysis by Ookla® of Speedtest Intelligence® data average download speeds for Q2 2019.
***GWS OneScore, September 2018.

FirstNet and the FirstNet logo are registered trademarks of the First Responder Network Authority.

Education/ Featured/ Front Page/ Technology/ Texas

FASTSIGNS® International, Inc. Educates the Next Generation by Endorsing Sign Manufacturing Day 2019

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FASTSIGNS International, Inc., a leading sign and visual communications franchisor, is an official endorser of Sign Manufacturing Day 2019, which takes place on October 4th. With more than 700 sign and visual graphics centers in nine countries, FASTSIGNS® joins organizations across the United States to celebrate the diversity of manufacturing and teach future generations about the variety of careers in this industry.

In honor of Sign Manufacturing Day 2019, FASTSIGNS inspires the next generation of skilled workers digitally through the launch of their new careers site. FASTSIGNS actively creates job opportunities through their centers, and through the careers site, they are making it easier to learn about those positions. With engaging video content, FASTSIGNS highlights the various roles at a FASTSIGNS center including Outside Sales, Graphic Design, Production and Installation.

Five main disciplines that students are learning today in school are the building blocks that will shape their career futures: science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics (STEAM). These building blocks are represented throughout every role on a FASTSIGNS center team. FASTSIGNS centers employ a variety of people including outside sales professionals, customer service representatives, graphic designers, sign producers and installers.

FASTSIGNS recognizes the countless opportunities manufacturing provides; FASTSIGNS centers are light manufacturers as well as service providers to manufacturers across communities nationwide. Manufacturers have long depended on FASTSIGNS centers to help design, produce and install a wide variety of signs and graphics to achieve effective communications resulting in improved workflow, easier navigation, compliance with accessibility and safety standards, and impactful marketing strategies.

“Manufacturing is absolutely necessary to our economy, stimulating job growth and strengthening communities,” explained Catherine Monson, CEO of FASTSIGNS International, Inc. “By endorsing Sign Manufacturing Day 2019, we have the opportunity to show our support for the wide array of careers in manufacturing.”

With modern manufacturing on the rise today, FASTSIGNS provides a unique career path for today’s students to one day incorporate their skill set when it comes to sign manufacturing. For more information, visit https://www.fastsigns.com/about/careers.

About FASTSIGNS®

FASTSIGNS International, Inc. is the leading sign and visual communications franchisor in North America, and is the worldwide franchisor of more than 700 independently owned and operated FASTSIGNS® centers in nine countries including the United States, Canada, Chile, England, Grand Cayman, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Australia (where centers operate as SIGNWAVE®). Locations are slated to open in two additional countries – Malta and Spain – in 2019.

FASTSIGNS locations provide comprehensive signage and visual graphic solutions to help companies of all sizes and across all industries attract more attention, communicate their message, promote their products, help visitors find their way and extend their branding across all of their customer touch points. 

FASTSIGNS centers provide architectural and interior decor graphics, fleet vehicle graphics, digital signs and digital signage content, event graphics, displays, banners, posters, ADA signage, safety and identification signs and much more, as well as handle everything from design to project management to installation.

FASTSIGNS International, Inc. is a recipient of many awards, including being ranked the #1 franchise opportunity in its category in Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500 for the past three years, and Best-in-Category in the business services sector on Franchise Business Review’s list of the top 200 franchises for multiple years.

Learn more about sign and visual graphic solutions or find a location at fastsigns.com.

Follow the brand on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/fastsigns, Twitter @FASTSIGNS or Facebook at facebook.com/FASTSIGNS. For information about the FASTSIGNS franchise opportunity, contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@fastsigns.com or call 214.346.5679).

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Breaking News/ Featured/ Front Page/ Technology

VME TV PREMIERES SCIGIRLS!

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Vme Begins Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month With STEM!

Vme TV has announced the premiere of SciGirls. The network brings the PBS series to inspire bright and curious kids to explore science, technology, engineering and math, or STEM. And SciGirls on Vme TV offers a special twist: while still firmly focused on STEM, these six episodes celebrate the language, heritage and culture of the diverse Latinx community! The fourth season of the Emmy-winning show will be broadcast beginning Saturday, September 7, on Vme TV (check local cable listings) and will air Saturdays and Sundays.

 

On this season’s SciGirls’, bright, relatable, creative girls—not actors—team up with adult female STEM professionals to solve STEM challenges, improve their communities and make new friends. But in these groundbreaking episodes, the real-life SciGirls and their mentors tackle their STEM adventures primarily in Spanish, honoring their Mexican, Puerto Rican, Dominican, Guatemalan, Argentinian, Colombian, Ecuadoran and Salvadoran heritage.

“SciGirls has spent over a decade addressing a challenging reality: girls face greater obstacles to STEM success than their male peers,” said SciGirls episode director Maria Agui Carter. “These barriers are even greater for young Latinas. SciGirls fourth season, with its Spanish-first, culturally responsive approach, is nothing short of groundbreaking.” SciGirls’ Director of Cultural Competency, Alicia Santiago, echoes Agui Carter: “Our research underscores that girls must see STEM role models who mirror their heritage and experiences. In partnership with Latinx educators, parents and community leaders, SciGirls selected exceptional Hispanic female STEM professionals to inspire and empower this season’s girls—in a language and style that feels uniquely theirs.”      

Michael Fernandez, Vice President of Marketing for Vme Media added: “We are very excited to be partnering with TPT to bring SciGirls to VmeTV. Our mission at Vme is to provide content that entertains as well as educates our audience. Bringing SciGirls to the network is another step in that promise”.

The series that Parenting Magazine calls “cool stuff” is proud to shine a spotlight on our nation’s emerging Latinx STEM innovators, thinkers and explorers. Whether girls are interested in pursuing STEM studies, becoming future STEM workforce leaders, or just exploring their world, SciGirls’ new bilingual Spanish/English episodes welcome everyone to the fiesta de la ciencia!

ABOUT VME TELEVISION
Vme TV (pronounced veh-meh), is a premiere national Spanish language television network that provides a quality alternative to Latino families by selecting programming that is engaging, empowering, educational and entertaining. Vme is available in 15.5 million households in the United States, distributed via on DIRECTV, DISH Network and AT&T U-verse. It is expected to grow to 20 million by the end of the year through additional cable provider expansion. The 24-hour digital broadcast service is dedicated to entertaining, educating and inspiring families in Spanish with a contemporary mix of original productions, exclusive premieres, acquisitions, and popular public television programs specially adapted for Hispanics. To find your local channel or to learn more about Vme TV, visit www.vmetv.com or follow us on social media via www.facebook.com/vmetv or www.twitter.com/vmetv.

ABOUT TWIN CITIES PBS (TPT)
The mission of TPT is to “enrich lives and strengthen communities through the power of media.” As one of the nation’s leading public media organizations, TPT uses television, digital media and community engagement to advance education, culture and citizenship. Over its 60-plus year history, TPT has been recognized for its innovation and creativity, particularly in STEM media production. Based in St. Paul, MN, TPT is one of the highest rated PBS affiliates in the nation, reaching over 1.3 million people each month through multiple broadcast and online channels. The organization’s particular areas of focus include: the educational readiness of children; serving the needs and unleashing the potential of America’s aging population; engaging a new generation in the power of public media; and being the preferred media partner for organizations that align with our mission to enrich lives and strengthen community. For more information, visit TPT online, follow TPT on Facebook and Twitter

ABOUT THE NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION
The National Science Foundation is an independent federal agency that supports education and research across all fields of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).  In addition to providing major support for SciGirls, the NSF supports other science and math programs on PBS and pbskids.org, including DragonflyTV, Peg + Cat, Design Squad Nation and Plum Landing.  Visit here for more information on NSF activities.

 

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Blog/ Breaking News/ Culture/ Featured/ Food/ Front Page/ Texas

Food Crosses All Cultures and Brings People Together

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Food Crosses All Cultures and Brings People Together

Karl spoke to Mario Ramirez, Restaurant Entrepreneur, and they spoke about the event he is organizing Mexico De Mil Sabores, September 13th at SMU and September 14th and 15th at the Dallas Farmers Market.

Karl also spoke to Shad Kvetko, Co-Founder of Las Almas Rotas, and Shad educated Karl on the different spirits from Mexico and their specialties.

It was a great privilege to have the Honorable Francisco de la Torre the General Consul of Mexico in Dallas as a guest.

This year, the General Consulate of Mexico in Dallas will celebrate the Mexican Independence within the Culinary Summit of Mexican Cuisine: Mexico of 1000 Flavors, 

During this celebration, gastronomic, commercial, artistic, academic, cultural and entertainment activities will be developed. Personalities of traditional cuisine and Mexican haute cuisine will be present to participate in this unprecedented event that aims to collaborate in the rescue, safeguarding and promotion of Traditional Mexican Cuisine as a Cultural Heritage of Humanity, as part of the Action Plan committed with UNESCO.

100 Years of Tex Mex Food

The popularity of Mexican cuisine has led to the emergence of several variations of this cuisine in other countries. The Tex-Mex cuisine evolved in Texas-Mexico in Southwest America, and is a modification of traditional cuisine with an unusual American touch to it. One of the best examples of the Tex-Mex cuisine is the ‘refried beans’, which is a term that has actually been coined in Texas, and is the translation of the Mexican term ‘Frijoles refritos’. The Tex-Mex cuisine is however quite different from original Mexican cuisine, even though it might include the same ingredients to a certain extent. Similarly, there also exists a ‘New Mexican Cuisine’, a type of regional cuisine originating from the state of New Mexico in USA and in southern Colorado, and is a subset of Mexican-American cuisine.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT : https://mexicodemilsabores.com/

Listen To Karl Talk about this Fabulous Event

MPI2

Breaking News/ Front Page/ Texas/ Travel

Meeting Professionals International Appoints Annette Gregg as Senior Vice President of Experience

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Meeting Professionals International (MPI), the largest meeting and event industry association worldwide, is pleased to announce that Annette Gregg, CMM, MBA, a deeply regarded expert with extensive background in the meetings and events industry, has been hired as the senior vice president of Experience at MPI. In this role, Annette will ensure MPI continues to empower its community with education, events, and experiences that continuously elevate their meetings and careers. She will report to Darren Temple, COO, and her official start date is September 9, 2019.

MPI began the search for this role in February 2019 and worked with an outside recruiter to develop a list of 100 potential candidates. In addition, the International Board of Directors and the Global Board of Trustees were asked for recommendations and those candidates were added to the list.

“Since 2014, Annette has served on the Meeting Professionals International (MPI) Board of Directors and has had a profound influence on the success and growth of MPI, as well as the meeting and events industry,” said Paul Van Deventer, president and CEO of MPI. “Not only are we thrilled to welcome Annette to the leadership team, but also anticipate the exciting advances she will make to strategically enhance and deliver next-level education and events for our global community.”

Prior to accepting her role at MPI, Annette was senior vice president for PRA, one of the nation’s largest business events agencies. She also served as chair-elect for the 2019 MPI International Board of Directors, but resigned that position in light of her new staff role. To fill the open 2020 MPI International Board of Directors Chair position, created by Annette’s resignation, MPI will follow the process defined in its bylaws that state when a chair-elect resigns, MPI will follow the process defined in its bylaws that state when a chair-elect resigns the international board can nominate a replacement for the chair, which will then be ratified by the Board Nominating Committee and the MPI membership. MPI is striving to announce and introduce the chair-elect nominee at a press conference being held on September 11, 2019 during IMEX America in Las Vegas.

“I am thrilled to join MPI and lead the education and events teams as SVP of Experience. The association has set the standard of excellence for the meetings and events industry, and I’m excited to bring my passion and experience to this already amazing team,” said Annette Gregg. “Having served as a chapter leader and on the International Board of Directors, being able to serve as an MPI staff member will enable me to deepen my contribution to this wonderful industry.”

Gregg has an extensive background in the meeting and hospitality industry, serving in executive level positions for corporations, associations, and non-profits. She has also led many successful planning teams, including LPL Financial, UCLA, and two event agencies. In addition, since 1995, she has taught at several universities and is currently program advisor for San Diego State University’s Meeting and Event Certificate Program, one of the most successful professional programs in the university’s history. Annette has delivered hundreds of keynotes and workshops on a variety of topics such as communication skills, branding and marketing, negotiation, and professional development. She was elected Instructor of the year at San Diego State University, and inducted into the Center for Business Intelligence’s Circle of Excellence for her training and speaking. In 2018, she won the Coach Award for the Association of Women in Events, and in 2016, she was named to the MeetingsNet Changemakers list, and awarded Planner of the Year for Meeting Professionals International, San Diego.

“While Annette will be missed at PRA, she has been building her entire career for this moment at MPI,” said Tony Lorenz, CMM, CEO of PRA. “As a veteran MPI volunteer leader and 25-year member, I appreciate and applaud the extraordinary value Annette will create for our industry at MPI. Brava!”

About MPI 

Meeting Professionals International (MPI) is the largest meeting and event industry association worldwide. The organization provides innovative and relevant education, networking opportunities and business exchanges, and acts as a prominent voice for the promotion and growth of the industry. MPI has a global community of 60,000 meeting and event professionals including more than 17,000 engaged members and its Plan Your Meetings audience. It has more than 70 chapters with members in 75 countries worldwide. “When we meet, we change the world.” www.mpi.org

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