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Jeremiah Gregory Promoted to VP of Marketing Strategy at digifora

Digifora

On February 25th, digifora announced that Jeremiah Gregory had been made Vice President of Marketing Strategy. The promotion came on the heels of a strong and sustained performance, in which he helped guide many of digifora’s clients and partners to achieve and surpass many of their goals. The new position serves as an acknowledgment of past successes as well as a way to empower Gregory to continue his leadership role within the rapidly scaling full-service growth-marketing agency. Founder and president Justin Brackett emphasized that the move was meant as a genuine sign of gratitude and a thank you from the entire team at digifora, saying, “This is just as much a thank you for past efforts as a nod to future outcomes. It is a way for us to say ‘thank you’ for all the work he is doing and has done as we’ve grown.” Growth is an understatement. Digifora made waves in 2024 when it announced that it had hit its seven-year benchmarks in less than half that time. Since then, it has continued to build its team and suite of services into a combined offering that can address any marketing and communications concern for organizations in both for-profit and non-profit environments. Brackett pointed out that throughout that growth, Gregory has consistently shown up with a can-do attitude. “He is always willing to go above and beyond,” he said. “He embodies our flywheel of Trust & Education, leads with integrity, and always looks for ways to elevate our clients and team. His dedication and impact at digifora speak for themselves, and this promotion reflects the value he brings every day.” Jeremiah currently resides in Pfafftown, North Carolina, where he lives with his wife Erin and their three daughters. He previously served as Senior Director of Growth Marketing at digifora. Before that role, he had spent the better part of two decades accumulating expertise as an advertising, analytics, and digital marketing expert. During that time, he developed and executed omnichannel campaigns for major organizations including Media General, Hearst Television, Flow Automotive, and Reynolds American. Once at digifora, he served the agency’s clients in a variety of contexts and competencies. His main bread and butter has been media buying. He has leveraged this key marketing channel for clients through branded relationships including Disney, Mountain, Google, and Pandora, using it to serve a number of high-profile clients, including Arc of Indiana, Convey of Hope, and Vanderbloemen. In addition, Gregory has helped with platform development by making sure digifora maintains partnerships in the technology space that can help drive change for its clients. He has also helped develop dashboards, analytics, reporting, and any other data or communications-related needs to ensure clear and effective service. Gregory is particularly satisfied with his work alongside digifora’s non-profit partners. “I am thankful that I have been able to help multiple non-profits connecting people in need to valuable resources that provide hope,” he said, adding that one of those non-profits is the Villages in Indiana. “One of my favorite success metrics in recent years has been the simple yet powerful fact that we were able to help grow the number of parents registering to be foster parents year over year from 2023 to 2024.” It is this heart-felt love for the impact of his work, alongside his can-do attitude and nose for successful outcomes that has made Gregory a central and integral part of digifora’s success, and will doubtless keep him in that catalytic position moving forward. About digifora Digifora launched in 2020 with a vision to provide an elite, comprehensive suite of growth marketing services for clients across the United States in corporate, non-profit, and faith-based sectors. Its growing team provides end-to-end marketing and communications support, from strategy to implementation to follow-up across on-site, off-site, digital, and traditional channels. Learn more about our services at digifora.com. Contact Details digifora Jaron Pak +1 843-284-6594 digifora.co@gmail.com Company Website https://digifora.com

March 12, 2025 08:43 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Avenue Z Names Whitney Hart as AI-Focused Chief Strategy Officer in Ambitious Move Driving PR and AI Optimization

Avenue Z

Avenue Z, the media and technology firm redefining digital influence, today announced the appointment of Whitney Hart as Chief Strategy Officer (CSO). Hart, a recognized innovator in emerging technologies, including blockchain and AI. Hart will drive Avenue Z’s proprietary AI Optimization (AIO) strategy, positioning the company at the forefront of the evolving search industry landscape. Hart’s expertise in technology-driven marketing, public relations, and digital transformation has made her a sought-after strategist for Fortune 500 brands, financial institutions, and Web3 pioneers. She has advised industry leaders, institutions, and governments on navigating digital disruption, leveraging AI and emerging technologies to secure competitive advantages. “AI is rewriting the rules of audience engagement, content creation, and content consumption, and the organizations that proactively manage their presence in and engagement with AI today will define the next era of influence.” said Whitney Hart, Chief Strategy Officer at Avenue Z. “Our team at Avenue Z is proactively thinking about how AI will fundamentally change not only content creation and consumption but also the broader financial, legal, and societal implications. I’m thrilled to join a team that is not just responding to change but shaping it through proprietary frameworks and proactive stewardship.” Before joining Avenue Z, Hart led high-profile initiatives across Web2 and Web3, serving as Executive Director of Feral File, where she pioneered digital art infrastructure and museum partnerships, and as Interim Chief Marketing Officer of Trilitech, where she was responsible for the Tezos blockchain brand and ecosystem. Jeffrey Herzog, Founder and CEO of Avenue Z, who originally pioneered SEO in 1998 with the founding of iCrossing, made Hart’s appointment a strategic move that cements Avenue Z’s leadership with a modern version of SEO, AI Optimization. “Whitney is a force multiplier—she sees around corners and understands where AI, finance, and culture converge,” said Herzog. “We began working on AIO at the onset of Avenue Z, and now, her expertise will accelerate our mission to help brands dominate in the new AI-driven search results.. The next wave of digital marketing belongs to first movers, and Whitney is a key architect of that shift.” Under her leadership, Avenue Z will expand its AIO (AI Optimization) capabilities, helping brands drive influence through AI-powered search engines, building reputation and revenue across all channels in an increasingly algorithm-driven world. “Digital authority is no longer just earned—it’s architected,” said Herzog. “We’re creating systems that don’t just react to AI’s evolution but actively shape how brands are discovered, positioned, and trusted in this new era.” Herzog added, “That’s why we’re making big investments on AI search and the future of influence. With Whitney leading strategy, Avenue Z is uniquely positioned to deliver an advantage that others haven’t even begun to understand.” Hart also serves on the advisory boards of Feral File and the Blaffer Art Museum and is a member of the Rhizome Council, embracing her love of art and AI, serving as a visionary in the cultural and technological space. For more information on Avenue Z, visit AvenueZ.com. Avenue Z is the leading marketing and communications agency pioneering AI optimization driving influence across all channels—from ChatGPT to The Wall Street Journal to TikTok. With 30 years of leadership in search and content marketing, we apply strategic communications, high-impact PR, performance media, and AI optimization to help companies build reputation and grow revenue through our proprietary, technology-driven approach. We are the agency for influence. www.AvenueZ.com Contact Details Avenue Z +1 407-637-2833 press@avenuez.com Company Website https://www.avenuez.com

March 11, 2025 07:54 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Comcast to Connect More Than 11,000 Homes and Businesses to Reliable, High-Speed Internet in Six Missouri Cities

Comcast Greater Kansas City

Comcast is connecting more than 11,000 new homes and businesses in six Missouri communities to reliable, high-speed, symmetrical Internet by expanding its network in the region. The expansion of its network will enhance digital infrastructure, promote economic growth, and position residents and local businesses for success in an increasingly digital world. The network expansion in Concordia, Harrisonville, Higginsville, Lexington, Napoleon, and Wellington will bring Internet, mobile, entertainment, and security services from Xfinity and Comcast Business to residents and businesses for the first time. “We are thrilled to welcome Comcast into our local communities,” said Kurtis Gregory, Missouri State Senator District 21. “This expansion ensures residents in these areas will have access to reliable, high-speed Internet. I am excited for the opportunities it will create for education, business, agriculture, and personal growth. Together, we are building a more connected and prosperous future for all and look forward to the positive impact it will have in the coming years.” This multi-million-dollar expansion into six communities will double Comcast’s existing footprint in Missouri. The new project — which will span more than 300 miles and is planned to be completed by 2027 — brings the company’s total investment in technology and infrastructure in Missouri to nearly $100 million over the past three years. “Reliable high-speed Internet is essential in today’s digital economy and Comcast is committed to connecting more Missouri families and businesses to the moments that matter most,” said Jennifer Dameron, director, External Affairs, Comcast Midwest Region. “The communities we'll be reaching with this expansion have been eager for better connectivity and choice for a long time, and we're happy to partner with them and meet their needs.” A Network You Can Trust to be Reliable, Fast and Secure Comcast’s state-of-the-art network is built to enable residents and businesses to thrive in today’s constantly connected world. These six cities join the 64 million homes and businesses across the country to have access to a network that is trusted by essential community organizations like hospitals, schools, transportation systems and first responders, and federal agencies like the Department of Defense and FEMA. It delivers multi-gigabit Internet speeds, 99.9 percent reliability and security built in from the ground up to keep customers safe from cyber threats. Introducing Xfinity for Consumers Comcast’s residential services are marketed under the Xfinity brand, and consumers in these six cities will be able to take advantage of Xfinity’s full suite of products, including Internet, video, mobile, voice and home security. With multi-gigabit Internet speeds, powerful WiFi that reaches every corner of the home, and super-responsive connections with low lag available with its plan, customers have a great experience using their connected devices to stream their favorite sports and entertainment content, video chat with coworkers and friends, learn from home or simply surf the web. Comcast Business to Power Local Workforce For local businesses, Comcast Business offers a suite of connectivity, communications, networking, cybersecurity, wireless, and managed solutions to help organizations of all sizes achieve their business goals. Industry analysts and associations have consistently recognized Comcast Business as a leader and innovator in flexible, scalable options as well as one of the fastest-growing providers of Ethernet services. What it Means for the Local Community Comcast’s commitment to communities goes beyond building the network and aims to increase economic mobility for the local community and its residents. That’s why Comcast created Internet Essentials, a broadband adoption program that offers eligible households low-cost, high-speed Internet and affordable computers. Comcast has also installed three Lift Zones in Greater Kansas City, including two Boys & Girls Club locations in Independence, Mo., and a third located in Olathe, Kan. Lift Zones provide free Internet connectivity and access to hundreds of hours of educational and digital skills content to help families and site coordinators navigate online learning. "We are incredibly grateful for Comcast's unwavering dedication to our mission,” said Jason Roth, President and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City. “Their partner support through Lift Zones, grants and sponsorships has been instrumental in providing our youth with the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. Comcast's commitment to bridging the digital divide and fostering educational growth aligns perfectly with our goals, and together, we are making a lasting impact on the lives of countless young people in our communities." Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. Contact Details Venice Communications Jayne Siemens +1 816-289-1109 jsiemens@vencomm.com Comcast Jill Hornbacher +1 651-425-1695 Jill_Hornbacher@comcast.com Company Website https://midwest.comcast.com/

March 05, 2025 07:00 AM Central Standard Time

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Chanel Christoff Davis Appointed to WBENC Board of Directors

Davis Davis & Harmon

Davis Davis & Harmon LLC (DDH), among the nation’s largest woman- and minority-owned sales tax consulting firms, proudly announces that its founder and CEO, Chanel Christoff Davis, has been named to the Board of Directors of the Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC). WBENC is a leading non-profit organization dedicated to certifying and advancing women-owned and small businesses across the United States. Davis, a dedicated advocate and mentor for women in business, brings extensive experience as a women-owned business leader with a strong commitment to empowering future generations of women entrepreneurs. Recognized as one of D CEO’s Top Financial Executives of 2024, she has been instrumental in fostering corporate connections and championing women-owned businesses in supply chains as a member of the Women’s Business Council Southwest Board - one of WBENC’s 14 regional partners. Beyond WBENC, Davis actively supports women small business owners through her participation in Goldman Sachs’ 10,000 Small Businesses Voices, a national initiative that amplifies the voices of entrepreneurs and advocates for policy changes to drive small business growth and economic opportunity. She also mentors participants in the Goldman Sachs One Million Black Women initiative, helping to expand access to capital and resources for Black women in business. In addition to her advocacy, Davis takes on her role as a mentor with great pride, hosting knowledge-sharing events such as Kickback with Chanel, a mentorship panel series sponsored by JP Morgan Chase. These gatherings focus on key business topics essential to the growth of local women entrepreneurs in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area, fostering collaboration, strengthening connections, and building a thriving community of African American business owners. “It is a profound honor to serve on the WBENC Board of Directors,” said Davis. “This is a pivotal time for women-owned businesses to make meaningful contributions to the business world. I am committed to fostering growth, mentorship and collaboration to ensure we continue breaking barriers and championing one another.” Under Davis’s leadership, DDH has become a multi-state powerhouse in the sales tax consulting industry. The firm specializes in sales tax refund recovery and audit defense and delivers measurable financial impacts for businesses across industries. Together, the DDH team recovers over $250 million annually for its clients. ### About Davis Davis & Harmon LLC - Sales Tax Experts Co-founded in 2001 by Chanel Christoff Davis, Davis Davis & Harmon LLC (DDH) is one of largest woman- and minority-owned sales tax consulting firms in the United States. Headquartered in Dallas, the award-winning firm helps businesses navigate the complexities of sales and use tax compliance, delivering innovative solutions that enhance bottom-line performance. Learn more at www.ddhtax.com. About WBENC The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) is the largest certifier of women-owned businesses in the United States and a leading advocate for women entrepreneurs. Partnering with 14 Regional Partner Organizations, WBENC provides certification, professional development, and business development opportunities to more than 18,000 WBENC-certified women-owned businesses. For more information, visit www.wbenc.org. Contact Details Davis Davis & Harmon Chanel Christoff Davis +1 972-488-5000 chanel@ddhtax.com Center Reach Communications Alexandra Campbell alexandra@centerreachcommunication.com Company Website http://www.ddhtax.com/

March 04, 2025 09:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

LOVER® Cosmetics Demo’s Simple Beauty in 5-Steps on NewBeauty’s TalkShopLive® Channel

LOVER COSMETICS

LOVER® Cosmetics founder Ashley Maurin Rodden demos the makeup line’s 5-step, simple-beauty makeup regime and magnetic palettes on NewBeauty Magazine’s TalkShop Live channel Tuesday, March 4 at 6:00 p.m. eastern. “After doing hundreds of makeovers, women kept repeating the same two complaints, ‘I don’t know how to do my makeup’, and ‘I don’t have time’. Our 5-step makeup regime and guide show women HOW to do their makeup and our 5-step palettes help women do their makeup fast,” said Rodden. LOVER Cosmetics placed first runner-up in Sept. at MakeupIn’s New York Beauty Tank Competition for its best-selling 5-step palettes and makeup classes. The line also serves as the makeup provider for the New York City Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, producing more than 1300 makeup kits for dancers and cheerleaders nationwide. The everyday woman can learn how to simplify her makeup routine, travel and touch ups from the safety of her own powder room on Tuesday. Paris-trained makeup artist Ashley Maurin Rodden is offering a quick, 5-step demo on TalkShopLive. Each palette also has a QR code on the bottom that takes women to a 5-step video. Palettes range from the smokey palette, to a very wearable nude shimmer palette, and the line’s best-selling matte palette that caters to a more mature client. “The four palettes are the colors that are most purchased and put together year after year in my studio. And, they are multifunctional! The taupe color in each is a double for a brow filler, the light shadow services as a highlighter. The wearer can actually use this one palette for a full face,” said Rodden. “Plus, the rectangular space can be used to store lashes, extra lipstick or foundation for a busy woman on the go or for travels.” Each of the palettes are made in the USA, vegan, paraben free, gluten free, EU complaint and cruelty free. The cosmetic line was started by Kansas City’s Ashley Maurin Rodden in 2006 and gained notoriety as the National Sponsor of Miss Teen USA. Rodden spent a summer interning at Chanel, Inc., in New York City and Rodden studied makeup artistry in Paris, France, at the renowned Christian Chauveau makeup school. The Kansas City-based studio services women nationwide, providing in-studio and virtual makeup lessons. The line serves as the makeup provider for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and Spirit of America Productions, plus dance and cheer teams nationwide. For more information on LOVER Cosmetics or to visit www.lover-cosmetics.com or email pr@lover-cosmetics.com. Founded in 2006, LOVER® Cosmetics LLC, is a full color cosmetics line. From day one, the goal was to make makeup simple for women. In 2009 LOVER® was named the national sponsor of Miss Teen USA. After hundreds, perhaps thousands of makeovers, the brand relaunched LOVER® Cosmetics in response to women’s two most common makeup dilemmas: 1) “I don’t know how to do my makeup” and 2) “I don’t have time.” The answer: LOVER®’s magnetic palettes, 5-step makeup regime and their soft, natural approach to makeup help women look good and feel good every day. LOVER placed 1St runner up in the nation at the 2024 MakeupIn beauty tank competition in New York. The brand is also the makeup provider for the Macys Thanksgiving Day parade and Spirit of America, designing more than 1300 makeup kits for cheerleaders and dancers nationwide. Contact Details Colleen Mathis, absolute R relations Colleen Mathis +1 917-690-5560 colleen@absoluterrelations.com Company Website https://www.lover-cosmetics.com/

March 03, 2025 08:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

Media and Democracy Project Appeals Dismissal of FOX Broadcast License Challenge

Media and Democracy Project

The Media and Democracy Project (MAD) announced that it has appealed the flawed decision by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Media Bureau (Bureau) to deny MAD’s Petition to Deny and grant the renewal application of Fox owned station WTXF-TV. The appeal highlights a series of serious errors that are inconsistent with the Commission’s prior precedent and The Communications Act. “The decision by previous FCC leadership to ignore Rupert and Lachlan Murdoch’s serious character flaws highlighted in multiple court decisions was as misguided as the current Chair’s decision not to resurrect MAD’s petition,” said Brian Hansbury, Co-Founder of the Media and Democracy Project. “The adjudicated factual findings in the Dominion case, undisputed by Fox, form the backbone of our petition and clearly distinguish it from the frivolous challenges against other networks, which are nothing more than a hyper-partisan attempt to facilitate President Trump's terrifying attempts to censor and coerce speech. The appeal systematically dismantles the Bureau’s rushed decision, highlighting critical flaws in its reasoning along the following key points: Character Matters – The Bureau’s interpretation of Section 309(k) contradicts FCC precedent and the Communications Act. The order cites selectively to past orders while ignoring others including a prior FCC decision rejecting the notion that a character review should be confined “solely to actions that took place at the station.” It was in a prior challenge to a Fox owned station license that the Bureau reaffirmed longstanding precedent, which directly contradicts the MAD dismissal. Fox’s Misconduct Shocks the Conscience – The Bureau erred in concluding that misconduct at an affiliated entity is irrelevant to a renewal application, even when it is so egregious that it shocks the conscience and raises substantial character concerns. It failed to apply the “shock the conscience” standard, which allows the Commission to consider character issues arising from non-adjudicated, non-FCC misconduct. Fox’s Actions Are Not Protected by The First Amendment – MAD’s Petition is not a First Amendment case. Preeminent First Amendment Champion Floyd Abrams settled that debate by filing in support of MAD’s petition. Yet the Bureau’s decision makes an oblique reference to it in dismissing the petition. All broadcast licensees have a statutory duty to operate in the public interest. This case concerns a corporation that, with the knowledge and approval of its top management, broadcast dangerous lies to millions of Americans, sought to overturn a presidential election, and helped incite a riot—all to protect its corporate profits. The issue before the FCC was never about Fox’s right to lie, but rather the consequences of those lies and whether they are a violation of the character requirements expected of those the FCC entrusts to hold a broadcast license. FCC Chair Rosenworcel’s Decision Was Politically Motivated – The prior Chair lumped MAD’s well-documented petition with politically motivated complaints in a shortsighted attempt to score headlines. MAD’s petition was clearly distinct from the others and based on the judicial findings in the Dominion case, which confirmed that Fox repeatedly made false statements that undermined our democracy. MAD also cites two other court decisions that found Rupert and Lachlan Murdoch engaged in a "carefully crafted scheme" in "bad faith" to deprive Lachlan’s siblings of the control to which they are entitled under an irrevocable trust; and that "Murdoch knowingly caused the corporation to violate the law." Even Rupert’s own son, James Murdoch, recently described Fox News's approach as "lying to your audience" to "juice ratings,” according to press reports. “Character cannot be disassembled—you cannot separate it,” said Alfred Sikes, former Republican FCC chair appointed by George H.W. Bush. “Character is character, whether it is done at a broadcast station or a cable channel. The FCC has a duty to overrule this order and hold a hearing so the Commission can follow the evidence. The FCC is a Commission of five persons after-all.” MAD petition is supported by a variety of media and FCC veterans, including: Alfred Sikes, former Republican Chairman of the FCC, Ervin S. Duggan, former Democratic FCC Commissioner and former PBS President, William Kristol, longtime Editor of The Weekly Standard, William Reyner, longtime lead regulatory and commercial outside counsel To Murdoch/Fox, and Preston Padden, former executive of Fox Broadcasting Company and former lead lobbyist for Rupert Murdoch/News Corporation/Fox. A copy of the application for review is available here. A link to a timeline of MAD’s petition is available here. The Media and Democracy Project: MAD is a non-partisan, all-volunteer, grassroots organization focused on strengthening a free and independent media in the public interest. MAD aims to improve our national discourse so that American voters can engage in informed decision-making. As part of that goal, MAD has an interest in the responsibility of journalists and media to report fully, accurately, and fairly on the electoral process and the outcome of elections. Additional information is available at www.MediaAndDemocracyProject.Org. Contact Details Raynor Ave. Aaron Alberico +1 202-744-0786 aalberico@raynoravenue.com Company Website https://www.mediaanddemocracyproject.org/

February 19, 2025 08:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

NAVEX One: The Trusted Partner for NIS2 Risk Alignment

NAVEX Global

NAVEX, the global leader in integrated risk and compliance management software, is pleased to offer the first GRC solution to holistically address NIS2 across training, policies and assessment – all on one platform, NAVEX One. NAVEX continues to provide risk and compliance professionals with the tools they need to align with the latest cybersecurity regulations. As organizations face increasing regulatory demands, NAVEX One integrates policy management, training and risk assessment resources to ensure seamless compliance with the European Union’s Network and Information Security Directive (NIS2). The NIS2 Directive raises the bar for cybersecurity and reporting standards across industries, including banking, healthcare, manufacturing and energy. Organizations must not only comply with these heightened regulations but also ensure their cybersecurity frameworks are strong enough to withstand evolving threats. “NIS2 is a critical milestone in cybersecurity regulation, and organizations need a partner that helps them do more than just check the compliance box,” said A.G. Lambert, chief product officer at NAVEX. “NAVEX One empowers compliance and risk professionals to build a sustainable and proactive approach to cybersecurity, ensuring their programs are compliant and resilient against emerging threats.” NAVEX One serves as an essential tool in the journey toward risk and compliance maturity, helping organizations: Conduct proactive risk assessments to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities Centralize and streamline policy management to meet regulatory expectations Strengthen cybersecurity posture with comprehensive security awareness training Stay ahead of evolving cybersecurity requirements through continuous program improvement and board-ready reporting Extend training, policies and cyber risk practices to align third parties with its cyber risk standards “Organizations today require more than just static risk and compliance checklists—they need dynamic, integrated solutions that evolve with regulatory changes and emerging risks,” said Kyle Martin, vice president of risk solutions at NAVEX. “NAVEX One’s content and capabilities give businesses the confidence to proactively address NIS2 requirements while reinforcing their broader risk management strategies.” By integrating these capabilities within a single platform, NAVEX One simplifies compliance, reduces risk exposure, and supports organizations in building future-proof compliance programs. Click here, for more information on NAVEX One and the NIS2 Directive. NAVEX is trusted by thousands of customers worldwide to help them achieve the business outcomes that matter most. As the global leader in integrated risk and compliance management software and services, we deliver solutions through the NAVEX One platform, the industry’s most comprehensive governance, risk and compliance (GRC) information system. For more information, visit NAVEX.com and our blog. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn. Contact Details Navex Global scott.levesque@navex.com Company Website https://navex.com

February 18, 2025 12:50 PM Eastern Standard Time

Lifesaving Communication: A Free Vital Roundtable on Emergency Response Language Services

American Translators Association

Español | Français | Tiếng Việt In critical moments when lives are on the line, clear and immediate communication can mean the difference between chaos and resolution. The American Translators Association (ATA) invites professionals across emergency response, crisis management, law enforcement, the media, health care, education, and the language services industry to a groundbreaking event: Best Practices in Emergency Response Language Services. This event is already drawing nationwide attention. Considering the recent onslaught of global crises such as floods, wildfires, epidemics, terrorism, mass shootings, airline crashes, and beyond, the majority of us at home, work, or play may need to respond to an unexpected crisis at any time. Three Essential Perspectives, One Transformative Discussion This 90-minute, high-impact event approaches emergency response language services from three unique but interconnected vantage points: Providers of emergency language and communications services – the trained professionals delivering real-time interpreting, translation, and general communication assistance during high-stakes situations. Recipients of these services – individuals and communities relying on linguists to navigate crisis and emergency situations. Essential players bridging the gap – first responders, law enforcement, dispatchers, teachers, and even astronauts who depend on linguists and other professional communicators for seamless, lifesaving connection. Meet the Experts Shaping the Future of Emergency Language Access Our distinguished panel brings together professionals who have stood on the front lines of crisis communication: Rhode Thomas, a seasoned interpreter and cultural mediator who interpreted on the ground during Hurricane Helene as well as for the National Center for School Crisis and Bereavement after a school shooting, will share firsthand insights on bridging language barriers in emergency medical, legal, and social service settings. Aaron Kubey, a FEMA employee and certified Deaf Interpreter, will discuss how accessibility measures are transforming disaster response, including real-world applications of ASL in crisis situations. Sergeant Clarence E. Stokes III, a 32-year veteran of the Pennsylvania Capitol Police and active shooter instructor, will explore crisis response tactics and how language professionals can assist in high-risk law enforcement encounters. Anh Pham, an interpreter for President Obama during his 2016 Vietnam visit, will discuss the intense preparation and political stakes involved in high-profile, international language services. Marjorie "Ocho" Kouns, a multilingual enhanced 911 (e911) Dispatcher in Atlanta, will reveal the challenges behind emergency calls and the urgency of accurate communication in 911 dispatch. Chantal Kamgne, an expert in localization and community language equity, will discuss the impact of cultural awareness in emergency translations and crisis communication. Liliana Trujillo, a bilingual medical professional, will speak to the critical need for linguistically and culturally sensitive communication in patient care and emergency health scenarios. Moderated by Bridget Hylak, CT, CI, MTC, a globally recognized language industry expert and communications strategist. Key Discussion Points: What are the fundamental factors that ensure effective language access in emergency response services? How can first responders, law enforcement, educators, health care providers, and the media collaborate with linguists and other professional communicators to improve accuracy and efficiency in crisis communication? What role does cultural sensitivity play in building trust and ensuring compliance with diverse communities? How do professional interpreters and translators handle high-pressure situations —such as natural disasters, active shooter incidents, or international crises—while maintaining composure and clarity? When is technology a help or a hindrance in emergency translation and interpreting? A Rare Opportunity to Learn, Prepare, and Connect Panelists will not focus solely on AI or language technology, though emerging tools will be addressed. Instead, this roundtable will tap into the depth of each participant’s experience, highlighting the techniques, connection, demeanor, preparation, composure, and human expertise it takes to handle these life-or-death situations well, regardless of the methods used. Attendees will leave with actionable insights on: Best practices for emergency language services in law enforcement, medical, educational, and corporate disaster response - and beyond. Practical strategies for handling high-pressure, high-stakes encounters with confidence. Regulatory and ethical considerations in high-stakes response scenarios. This nationally relevant event is a must-attend for anyone involved in emergency response, crisis communication, and language services. Register now at ATA’s Event Registration Page to secure your spot. For media inquiries or further information, contact: Jamie Hartz ATA Public Relations Committee Chair pr-chair@atanet.org ATA is a professional association founded in 1959 to advance the translation and interpreting professions and foster the professional development of translators and interpreters. With thousands of members in more than 100 countries, the Association includes translators, interpreters, language services providers, educators, project managers, localization specialists, hospitals, universities, and government agencies. Contact Details American Translators Association Jamie Hartz, Public Relations Committee Chair pr-chair@atanet.org Company Website https://www.atanet.org/

February 13, 2025 10:30 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Revenue Management Solutions and Norton Creative Partner Transform Restaurant Menus

Revenue Management Solutions

Hospitality experts Revenue Management Solutions (RMS) and Norton Creative are redefining menu strategy through a powerful partnership of experience, technology and know-how. Combining RMS’ menu analysis with remote eye-tracking technology and Norton’s menu design, the two industry leaders are helping restaurants optimize their menus for consumer engagement and profitability. RMS’ advanced eye-tracking software analyzes how consumers interact with digital menus, capturing gaze patterns and time spent on menu sections. Heat maps reveal what grabs potential diners’ attention. Norton Creative uses the information to design engaging menus that strategically showcase the most profitable items. With rapid testing available, menu information can be ready in as little as a week, ensuring maximum impact. “Restaurant brands need a menu that does more than list items — it has to guide the guest experience and influence purchasing behavior,” said RMS VP of Consulting for North America Justin Pridon. “With today’s consumers dining out less, an optimized menu can be the difference between lost sales and long-term loyalty.” According to a recent RMS survey, half of respondents dine out less frequently than before COVID-19. Additionally, younger generations and families have increased their reliance on digital ordering, underscoring the need for menus that function effectively across all platforms. “Restaurant brands are focused on how to get the most sales and profit out of their existing menu without changing customer favorites,” said Norton Creative Chief Client Officer Sara Harding Lou. “We use data to inform design that supports a restaurant company’s business objectives, whether it’s focused on improving margins, increasing profitability or bringing the brand promise to life.” Four leading restaurant brands are currently testing Norton and RMS-designed menus. The teams are onboarding many more, demonstrating how strategic menu evolution can boost profitability without relying solely on price increases. “With this data-driven approach, brands are seeing a real impact,” Pridon added. “By integrating technology with smart design, we’re helping restaurants turn their menus into powerful revenue drivers.” About Revenue Management Solutions For 30 years, Revenue Management Solutions (RMS) has partnered with restaurant brands to deliver actionable insights and data-driven solutions to boost sales, streamline costs and maximize profitability. Its AI-powered solutions support 150,000-plus locations worldwide, empowering brands to navigate challenges such as inflation and labor costs with confidence. Unlock the power of your data with RMS by visiting www.revenuemanage.com. About Norton Creative A Houston-based creative agency laser-focused on hospitality, Norton Creative gets global, national and local restaurant brands noticed. Thought leaders with decades of experience in launching and sustaining successful brands, Norton’s veteran team takes a strategic approach, with design expertise at every level of operations — from brand strategy to logo menus and packaging to signage and interiors to broadcast, print and digital ad campaigns. View their award-winning work at Norton Creative. Contact Details Center Reach Communications Tracy Henderson +1 720-989-3530 tracy@centerreachcommunication.com Company Website https://www.revenuemanage.com

February 13, 2025 09:15 AM Eastern Standard Time

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