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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

Surety Industry Unites on Capitol Hill to Advocate for Key Legislative Priorities

SFAA

The Surety & Fidelity Association of America (SFAA) and the National Association of Surety Bond Producers (NASBP) led a Legislative Fly-In with members from across the industry to educate Congress on the value of construction surety bonds and advocate for key legislative priorities. These important meetings with policymakers focused on expanding support for the bipartisan Water Infrastructure Subcontractor and Taxpayer Protection Act ( S.570 / H.R.1285 ), which would strengthen the Water Infrastructure Subcontractor Finance & Innovation Act (WIFIA) program by requiring appropriate bonding for all projects, including public-private partnerships (P3s). This bipartisan legislation was introduced by Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Representatives Mike Bost (R-IL) and Chris Pappas (D-NH) on February 13 of this year. Surety professionals held over 135 meetings with policymakers and staff to emphasize the significant savings that surety bonding provides to taxpayers across the country. Using data from the Ernst & Young (EY) study, The Economic Benefits of Surety Bonds, industry leaders reinforced that surety bonds safeguard taxpayer dollars, ensure project completion, protect subcontractors, suppliers and workers, and drive economic growth. “SFAA members engaging with federal policymakers is a vital part of our advocacy mission, ensuring Congress understands the essential role of surety bonds in supporting and safeguarding public infrastructure projects,” said Ryan Work, President and CEO of SFAA. “Working with our industry partner, NASBP, our critical engagement with Congress strengthens and engages members on key issues affecting our industry.” “The needs of the Nation’s critical infrastructure are readily apparent, and surety bonds guarantee that these projects will be delivered, protecting the investments of taxpayers,” commented Mark McCallum, CEO of NASBP. “The story of surety’s benefits is compelling and one that each new Congress must understand as it legislates for the country’s advancement. My thanks to all those surety professionals who took the time to tell the story to their members of Congress,” McCallum added. During these joint meetings, industry leaders emphasized the critical role of surety bonding in federal infrastructure projects. Discussions included the importance of bonding requirements for WIFIA, ongoing P3 projects, the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program, and other initiatives supporting the nation’s infrastructure. NASBP and SFAA also hosted a special event featuring insights from former Congressman and U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood and a panel discussion with Jack Ruddy, the Majority Staff Director of the U.S. House of Representatives Transportation & Infrastructure Committee. SFAA and NASBP look forward to our continuing dialogue with Congress, the Administration, and Federal Agencies to advance key priorities that support projects across the country. To read the EY report and get additional information on the value of surety, visit www.surety.org/suretyprotects. The Surety & Fidelity Association of America (SFAA) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan trade association representing all segments of the surety and fidelity industry. Based in Washington, D.C., SFAA works to promote the value of surety and fidelity bonding by proactively advocating on behalf of its members and stakeholders. The association’s more than 425 member companies write 98 percent of surety and fidelity bonds in the U.S. For more information visit www.surety.org. Contact Details Peter Roth +1 703-401-0676 proth@surety.org Company Website https://surety.org/

March 03, 2025 11:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

TriSpan Closes Continuation Vehicle for Prestige PEO Holdings

PrestigePEO

TriSpan LLP (“TriSpan”), a New York and London based private equity firm, is pleased to announce the closing of a single-asset continuation vehicle that acquired interests in Prestige PEO Holdings LP (“Prestige” or the “Company”). The transaction was led by growth equity firm Lead Edge Capital, and supported by a diverse group of existing investors, including a substantial investment from affiliates of TriSpan. The transaction will provide follow-on capital to support Prestige through its next phase of growth and value creation. Prestige is the parent company of PrestigePEO, a provider of comprehensive, outsourced human resource services to small and mid-size businesses in the United States. Since TriSpan’s original investment in 2020, Prestige has grown organically utilizing its differentiated broker model while also successfully completing five strategic acquisitions and expanding into attractive geographies. “We are thrilled to continue our collaboration with TriSpan as we continue to capitalize on a tremendous market opportunity in our next phase of growth,” said Andy Lubash, CEO and Founder of Prestige. “Our partnership with TriSpan has been core to our success and we believe we are well-positioned to continue to gain market share and unlock the full growth potential of the platform.” “Prestige’s talented leadership team and its ability to access the broker channel for new client acquisitions has driven strong performance to-date and will continue to be an accelerator of growth in the future,” said Baudoin Lorans, Partner at TriSpan. “The Company’s high-touch, customer centric approach delivers substantial value to its clients and leads to impressive retention. We are delighted to continue our partnership with the Company and its leadership team.” “We are excited to partner with Prestige and TriSpan on this next phase of expansion,” said Tim Bemer, Partner at Lead Edge. “For over two decades, Prestige has demonstrated an impressive track record of efficient growth and high client satisfaction, driven by a strong leadership team and unique go-to-market strategy.” Lazard Frères & Co. LLC served as financial advisor and Goodwin Procter LLP served as legal counsel to TriSpan. A separate team of attorneys at Goodwin Procter LLP served as legal counsel to Lead Edge on the transaction. Atlantic Global Risk LLC served as the R&W insurance broker for the transaction and a fairness opinion was provided by Houlihan Lokey Capital Inc. About Prestige Prestige PEO Holdings, LLC is the parent company of Prestige Employee Administrators, also known as PrestigePEO. Prestige empowers small and mid-sized businesses to simplify HR by offering end-to-end support for employee benefits management, payroll administration, workers’ compliance, HR guidance, and more. Merging the power of industry-leading customer service with innovative technology options, Prestige delivers a full spectrum of HR services and solutions to help SMBs lower employee benefit costs, reduce administrative workloads, and manage critical HR functions. Prestige is among only 1% of PEOs that are ESAC-accredited, Workers Comp Risk Management (CI)-certified, and classified as a Certified Professional Employer Organization (CPEO) by the IRS – demonstrating financial stability and strict adherence with a diverse range of regulatory and security standards. Headquartered in Melville, NY, Prestige is licensed to support SMBs nationwide. For more on Prestige, visit www.prestigepeo.com. Follow the Company on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube. About TriSpan Founded in 2015, TriSpan, LLP is a private equity firm with offices in New York and London that invests in middle market companies in North America, Europe, and the United Kingdom. TriSpan, LLP is committed to creating value through using a combination of deep operational and financial resources to accelerate growth and drive improved performance. Since inception, the firm has completed 24 platform investments, alongside nearly 100 bolt-on acquisitions across its portfolio. For more information, please visit Trispanllp.com. About Lead Edge Capital Lead Edge Capital is a $5 billion growth equity firm investing in software, internet, and tech-enabled businesses globally. The firm has invested in a number of major software and internet companies around the world, including Alibaba Group, Arrive Logistics, Asana, Azul Systems, Bazaarvoice, Benchling, Clearscore, Duo Security, Grafana, GrowthZone, Holistiplan, LeanStaffing, LiveView Technologies, Pacemate, SafeSend, Signal Sciences, Tempo, Toast, Wise, and YouSign. One of the main drivers of Lead Edge’s success is its unique investor base, a network of 700+ executives, entrepreneurs, and dealmakers who have built and run some of the world’s most successful companies. In addition to providing flexible capital, Lead Edge leverages this global advisory group to connect portfolio companies with the customers, partners, talent, and advisors needed to accelerate growth. Lead Edge Capital was founded in 2011 and has offices in New York City, London and Santa Barbara. Contact Details Prestige PEO Holdings, LLC Jay Zamft +1 516-692-8505 jzamft@prestigepeo.com Company Website https://www.prestigepeo.com/

February 24, 2025 09:00 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

SFAA Applauds Introduction of Legislation to Modernize WIFIA

SFAA

The Surety & Fidelity Association of America (SFAA) commends Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Representatives Mike Bost (R-IL) and Chris Pappas (D-NH) for the introduction of the Water Infrastructure Subcontractor and Taxpayer Protection Act. This bipartisan legislation ensures payment and performance bonding on infrastructure projects receiving Water Infrastructure Finance & Innovation Act (WIFIA) assistance, including public-private partnerships (P3s). These protections safeguard workers, subcontractors, suppliers and taxpayers. “It is essential WIFIA be modernized to include the same payment and performance requirements that protect all other federally funded infrastructure projects,” said Ryan Work, President and CEO of SFAA. “Bonding all projects receiving WIFIA assistance is a commonsense solution to better preserve taxpayer dollars, ensure project completion, protect workers and promote economic growth.” The Water Infrastructure Subcontractor & Taxpayer Protection Act will ensure parity protections between traditional project delivery methods and P3 projects utilizing the WIFIA program. The legislation also provides the same protections required in the Transportation Infrastructure Finance & Innovation Act (TIFIA) program and other federally financed projects. SFAA looks forward to working with industry allies and policymakers to advance this legislation in the 119th Congress. ### The Surety & Fidelity Association of America (SFAA) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan trade association representing all surety and fidelity industry segments. We promote the value of surety and fidelity bonding and its vital protections through advocacy, outreach, promotion, and education. The more than 425 member companies write 98 percent of surety and fidelity bonds in the U.S. SFAA is also licensed as a rating or advisory organization in all states, and state insurance departments have designated it as a statistical agent for reporting fidelity and surety experience. www.surety.org Contact Details Peter Roth +1 703-401-0676 proth@surety.org Company Website https://surety.org/

February 13, 2025 03:35 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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Flash Appoints Chris Donus CEO

Flash

Flash, the leader in parking and mobility technology, today announced that Chris Donus, currently the President of Flash, has been appointed Chief Executive Officer. Donus joined Flash as CFO in 2023 and became President in June 2024. Dan Sharplin, who has served as Flash CEO since 2019, will continue as Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors. "It’s the perfect moment for Chris to step into the CEO role and lead Flash in its next phase of growth," said Dan Sharplin, Executive Chairman, Flash. "Chris is a proven leader, and as those who’ve worked with him will attest, has the ability to drive execution at speed and at scale that promises to take Flash to new heights." Sharplin will shift focus to strategy and Board leadership, actively supporting Chris Donus and the executive team and steering strategic projects and partnerships. He will continue advancing Flash’s industry leadership and driving its vision for the digital transformation of the industry to a modern marketplace that delivers seamless experiences to drivers and increased value and transparency for owners and operators. Donus will assume responsibility for strategic execution and continue leading the expansion of Flash’s emerging digital demand network, EV charging and parking platforms, and its regionalized branch organization. Donus joined Flash as a seasoned mobility and technology leader in finance and operations. Prior to Flash, he served as COO and CFO at Wheel Health, VP and Business Unit leader of Express Drive at Lyft, and served in President, COO and CFO roles at Silvercar. "I thank Dan Sharplin and the Board of Directors for their support and confidence as well as the incredible opportunity to lead the world class team we've assembled at Flash," said Donus. "I couldn't be more excited for the possibilities that lay ahead – for Flash and for the industry – as we continue the journey to make the transformation of parking a reality." An innovator in parking management technology since 2011, Flash has achieved unprecedented scale encompassing over 16,000 parking assets, 1 billion annual transactions, and 450 million driver touchpoints in the apps consumers use everyday. Flash is leading the industry transformation to a connected mobility ecosystem that delivers a seamless parking experience for drivers and unlocks profitability and asset yield for operators and owners. About Flash Flash is a pioneering technology company bringing seamless parking and EV charging experiences to drivers through a first-of-its-kind digital ecosystem. Flash’s platform connects reservable parking and charging in the apps drivers use every day with garage, surface lot, event, and valet parking locations — connected and controlled via a cloud-based operating system with unrivaled intelligence. Customer-obsessed brands partner with Flash to deliver digital, easy-to-use, reliable, and increasingly frictionless experiences to drivers eager to pay for a solution that eliminates wasted time, excess emissions, and stress from driving. The solution has arrived. Visit www.flashparking.com to learn more. Contact Details Ray Young +1 512-694-6097 ray@razorsharppr.com Company Website https://www.flashparking.com/

February 13, 2025 08:15 AM Central Standard Time

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