Community Comes Together for Unforgettable Back-to-School Bash at The CENTER @Joshua Home

Joshua Home an LGBTQ Safe Haven kicks off the opening of its new drop-in center for LGBTQ+ youth in the Inland Empire with the Queer Kickoff: Back-to-School and Open House event.

Queer Kickoff Back-to-School event

Queer Kickoff Back-to-School event

COLTON, Calif.Nov. 3, 2023PRLogCommunity Comes Together for Unforgettable Back-to-School Bash at The CENTER @ Joshua Home a New LGBTQ+ Youth Drop-in Center

Colton, August 26, 2023 — The inaugural Queer Kickoff Back-to-School event organized by The CENTER @ Joshua Home an LGBTQ Safe Haven was a resounding success, creating an impactful experience for local families that promises to resonate throughout their lifetimes.

A Game-Changing Event

“The joy we saw on everyone’s faces as they received new shoes, gym shorts, socks, t-shirts, and tops was simply indescribable,” says Annette Patterson, Founder and Executive Director and the event organizer. “This was about more than just new shoes and clothes; this was about community, connection, and support.”

Volunteer Power

The CENTER’s team of dedicated volunteers prepped the venue a week in advance and ensured a seamless operation on the event day. “Our volunteers were the backbone of this event. They not only helped families find what they needed but truly connected with the community,” added Annette.

Partners in Positivity

The CENTER was also thrilled to have community partners like Free Mom Hugs SoCal (IG @freemomhugssocal), who elevated the atmosphere with their trademark hugs, glitter affirmations, and cool giveaways. “They brought so much heart and positivity; it was contagious,” said one of the attendees.

Catering to Community

Acknowledgments are also due for the Super Catering Group (IG @supercateringgroup), who catered the event. “The food was spot-on, and they felt like part of our extended family,” praised the founder.

Grateful for Sponsorship

The CENTER @ Joshua Home extends a heartfelt thank-you to their main sponsor, RIVERSIDE – SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY INDIAN HEALTH, INC., who made sure every detail was accounted for. “Our sponsors were the linchpin that made this event a hit,” emphasized Nick Daily, President of the Board of Directors.

Donations that Make a Difference

Special recognition goes to Amazon employees from the ONT2 (IG @theontempire) warehouse, and SBD3 (IG @wearesbd3) for their generous donations of shoes, clothes, and hygiene items. “Their contributions were clutch. They helped us fulfill the core mission of this event,” said Nick.

Capturing the Magic

The CENTER also extends its gratitude to Colton High’s school newspaper, the Pepper Bough team, and their photographer for capturing every unforgettable moment. “They made us look good and captured the essence of what this event was all about,” Annette pointed out.

A Lasting Impact

Family and friends of The CENTER came together to make this more than an event—it’s a lifelong memory for the children and families involved. “This is a day they will carry with them forever,” concluded Nick.

Joshua Home is excited to announce its second event at The CENTER @ Joshua Home, taking place on Saturday, November 18, 2023. The Love Thrifting? Pop Up Shop welcomes LGBTQIA2S+ youth, their families, and local youth, offering free access to a variety of resources. Annette Patterson expressed, “Our goal is to introduce Joshua Home to the community, distribute clothing and footwear, provide essential resources, and emphasize The CENTER’s commitment to assisting not only homeless and LGBTQ+ youth but also those in need.” To find out more and get involved visit their website https://www.joshuahomelgbtq.org/.

For more information or to get involved in future events, please contact Annette Patterson, joshuahomelgbtq@gmail.com

ENDS

For Media Inquiries:

Annette Patterson

joshuahomelgbtq@gmail.com

909.512.6767

Media Contact
Annette Patterson
***@gmail.com
9095126767

South Africans Honor Late Amb James A. Joseph, Russell Batiste & NOSACONN’s 25th Anniversary

Eight South African cultural ambassadors have arrived in New Orleans as part of cultural exchange between South Africa and New Orleans honoring two late cherished Louisiana citizens in coordination with New Orleans South Africa Connection NOSACONN

NEW ORLEANSNov. 3, 2023PRLog — Posted Courtesy of Wright Enterprises Community Spotlight

MEDIA ADVISORY:
CELEBRATING ITS 25th ANNIVERSARY NOSACONN RECEIVES INTERNATIONAL CULTURAL EXCHANGE GROUP PAYING TRIBUTETO LATE U.S. AMBASSADOR JAMES  A. JOSEPH WITH A SALUTE TO RUSSELL BATISTE JR.OF NOLA’S ROYAL FAMILY OF MUSIC TO FOLLOW

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

WHAT:          As NOSACONN Notes its 25th Anniversary The Cultural Exchange Presentation and Musical tributes begin with the tribute to Late Ambassador James Joseph’s Celebration of Life at Southern University’s Law Center- which will be held today, November 3 and Saturday, November 4th.   Additionally, as condolences continue from such entities as the Recording Academy for David Russell Batiste Jr. the group of South African Officials and artists will also honor the Batistes at Sweet Lorraine’s. Send Off Celebration of South Africans Jazz Tribute to New Orleans at Snug Harbor.  The group will also be visiting area schools.  For a complete itinerary contact Damon Batiste at 504 415-1702.

WHERE:          Ambassador James Joseph’s ceremonies in Baton Rouge: Southern University Law Center 2 Roosevelt Stephoe Drive, 70813 & Marriott Courtyard-Downtown 260 Third Street ,70801; Sweet Lorraine’s Jazz Club, 1931 St. Claude Avenue, New Orleans 70116.  Snug Harbor Jazz Club, 626 Frenchmen St., New Orleans 70116.

WHEN:          Friday, November 3, 2023,  6:30-8:30 p.m. -Southern University Law Center-Ambassador Joseph’s Memorial;  Saturday, November 4, 2023 11 a.m. -Ambassador Joseph’s Celebratory Reception at the Marriott Downtown Baton Rouge

Sunday, November 5th South African Tribute at Sweet Lorraine’s  for David Russell Batiste Jr. at Sweet Lorraine’s 6 p.m. & 8 p.m. along with Sebastian West’s  LA West Wind Band.

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

WHY:          Saluting NOSACONN’s 25th Anniversary, continuing the work of NOSACONN, Inc. while honoring late Ambassador James Joseph (advocate for and advisor to South Africa’s first Black President Nelson Mandela)  and that of the late humanitarian, educator and musician Batiste, the entourage of South African officials are strengthening cultural exchange between New Orleans and South.  The inclusion of Sebastian West’s LA West Wind Band affirms the cultural richness found in New Orleans. Visit www.nosaconn.com to find out more about NOLA’s Royal Family of Music, The Batistes and the power of cultural tourism and empowerment.

Koala Cooling Announces Leadership Transition

ROUND ROCK, TexasNov. 2, 2023PRLog — Koala Cooling, a prominent player in the Austin home services industry, is proud to announce a significant leadership transition that marks a new era for the company. Founder and CEO, Scott Feller, will be stepping down from his role as CEO to take on the responsibilities of CFO. In his place, Paul Olsen will assume the position of CEO, and Kyle Sattler will take on the role of COO.

Scott Feller, a distinguished professional with an Engineering Degree from Iowa State University, is known for his founding of the beloved KangaRoof in Austin, TX. He subsequently transferred the helm of KangaRoof to his wife, Stacie Feller, in 2016, embarking on a new journey with Koala Cooling in 2017. Under his leadership, he acquired a small HVAC company and steered its growth by a remarkable tenfold. Now, as he looks forward to a partial retirement, Scott will focus on managing the financial aspects of the company.

The new CEO, Paul Olsen, brings over two decades of experience to the leadership team. With a Master Plumber background and expertise as an HVAC technician, he has risen through the ranks at some of the largest home services companies in the Austin area. His extensive career includes roles as Sales Manager, Install Manager, Plumbing Manager, HVAC Manager, Operations Manager, and General Manager. Paul joined Koala Cooling in May 2023 and has been instrumental in the company’s growth as the Operations Manager. He is a devoted family man, married to his wife Michelle, and together they have a blended family with six children.

Kyle Sattler, the newly appointed COO, has dedicated his career to marketing and process development for various companies, including statewide and national home improvement companies. Some may recognize him as the former Marketing Manager for Scott and Stacie’s business empire. Kyle’s tenure with Koala Cooling began in April 2023 as the Process Manager. He is married to his wife Laura, and they have two wonderful children, Chris and Bella.

In their respective roles, Paul as CEO and Kyle as COO will take on distinct responsibilities. Paul will be responsible for shaping the company’s vision, building community relationships, and introducing innovative ideas to the leadership team. On the other hand, Kyle will focus on process development, leading the company’s leadership team, overseeing special projects, and eliminating obstacles that hinder the Koala team’s efficiency.

The transition is expected to be seamless for the majority of the Koala team, as Paul and Kyle have been leading most of the operational work for the past six months. When the announcement was made, the staff welcomed it with enthusiasm and anticipation for the future. The rest of the leadership team will remain unchanged, with expectations of growth as the company expands.

Under the leadership of Paul and Kyle, Koala Cooling will follow a similar yet different path. The duo will function as a V/I Duo, with Paul setting the vision for the company and Kyle putting together the processes to realize it. The company remains committed to substantial growth and expansion, with aspirations to double year over year. Their ultimate goal is to focus on customers who aim to eliminate the need for emergency calls in the home services industry. “We believe emergencies should not be necessary in the home services industry,” emphasized Kyle Sattler.

Scott Feller, in his message, expressed his gratitude and hope for the future. He is thankful for the patience and dedication of Paul and Kyle in navigating this transition, and he has unwavering confidence that the company he founded is in capable hands.

The announcement to the Koala Cooling team was made on November 1, 2023, and it is effective immediately.

The Holiday Season is Going to Get Spooky in Rockford, Illinois

ROCKFORD, Ill.Nov. 2, 2023PRLog — Spooky and Christmas might seem an unusual combination. The truth is, spooky stories and Christmas time were tied together for many years, and still are in some countries. Remember that “A Christmas Carol” is actually a ghost story. It’s just one example of a rich tradition. A number of authors, artists and artisans will be paying tribute to that tradition on December 2nd from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at a free-admission event called “Put the Spooky Back Into Christmas.” The location will be Veteran’s Memorial Hall at 211 N. Main in Rockford.

The event will feature several authors including,  Frank Coffman, Gary Hill, Kathi Kresol and Stephen Osborne. Not only will each author have books available, they will be on hand to chat and sign books. Each author will also have a spooky holiday reading as part of a video that will be playing during the event.

Frank Coffman is a published poet and fiction writer with several collections available.  One of his poems with a dark holiday theme was featured in “Horrifying Holidays: Holiday Spookfest.” In addition to writing several books, Gary Hill runs local science fiction and horror imprint Tales of Wonder and Dread which lists “Horrifying Holidays: Holiday Spookfest,” “Put the Spooky Back Into Christmas: Classic Holiday Horror Tales” and “Horrifying Holidays Two: More Holiday Spookfest” among its catalog.

Kathi Kresol has been researching the history of Northern Illinois for twenty years. She has published two solo books and has collaborated with other local authors and shared articles in three books featuring compilations of Rockford authors. She shares the stories she finds researching Spooky stories in her presentations, her column ” Voices from the Grave” in the Rock River Times, and her events for Haunted Rockford. Stephen Osborne obviously never lost his love for the macabre, as it turns up often in his writing. In addition to his own books he has one story each in “Horrifying Holidays” and “Horrifying Holidays Two.”

There will be a number of vendors on hand. Bast & Baetyl Alchemy will have a large selection of copper jewelry and accessories, including necklaces, bracelets, rings, earrings, belts, pins and hair pins. Their aesthetic is already spooky, but they will be making a selection of winter items including pieces featuring Krampus and other holiday superstitions and mythology. Chris Geebus is an artist specializing in comic style inks, realism acrylics, graffiti blaster and a little bit of a Jack of all visual art trades, Holiday themed horror prints and originals will be on deck for “Put The Spooky Back Into Christmas”

Directly connected to Kathi Kresol, Haunted Rockford’s table will have her books for sale  along with Christmas ornaments including needlepoint. MsAndi’s Creations will make custom sublimation and DTF items including glassware, t-shirts, key chains blankets and more. In addition to other designs, they are licensed to create official “Put the Spooky Back Into Christmas” and “Horrifying Holidays” merchandise.

Next Life Creations is focused on creating one-of-kind art from items found in nature. For this event they will have a selection of witch ball/Yule ornaments, wood slice ornaments and decorative lanterns and more. Artists Samantha S. and Britta E. create custom stained glass and fused glass art under the name Seen-Through-Glass, and they will have an array of works available, many of which will fit the Spooky Christmas theme. Samantha Hochmann will be representing Tinker Swiss Cottage and will have Christmas ornaments and Tinker Swiss Cottage T-Shirts. As a bonus, there will be gift baskets available at both the Haunted Rockford and Tinker Swiss Cottage tables that will include goodies for fans of Spooky stuff..

Additionally there will be other spooky displays and more adding to the mood and vibe courtesy of ScaryHouse Studios. This event was made possible, in part, by a 2023 Action Micro-Grant from the Rockford Area Arts Council.

The 7th Annual US-Mexico Natural Gas Forum takes place November 13-15, in San Antonio, TX

U.S.-Mexico cross-border natural gas market decision-makers participate in key industry event to gain insight, analyze, and structure arrangements to buy, sell and transport natural gas.

HOUSTONNov. 1, 2023PRLog — Hundreds of energy industry professionals convene in November to gain insight and conduct analysis of up to the minute issues facing US-Mexico cross-border natural gas markets. The 7th Annual US-Mexico Natural Gas Forum takes place November 13-15, in San Antonio, TX. This is the industry’s premier gathering for natural gas industry professionals, which is much more than simply a conference with participants routinely negotiating transactions during the event. Dedicated networking time is incorporated into the agenda to ensure participants are able to engage with other key stakeholders.

The Program for this year’s event includes all the critical issues faced by stakeholders in this dynamic market. Agenda highlights include:

§  Mexico Energy Policy and Regulation – campaigning leading up to next year’s Presidential election in Mexico introduces alternatives to the AMLO administration’s energy policy.
§  Market Fundamentals – domestic Mexico supply is not expected to satisfy demand – imports from the U.S. must continue to grow to meet the shortfall.
§  Nearshoring – Mexico is poised to capitalize on nearshoring opportunities, as an attractive location for manufacturing and industry, however realizing these opportunities is dependent on adequate sources of reliable, economic energy.
§  Infrastructure – infrastructure constraints to address domestic Mexico demand as well as imports from the U.S. are a critical issue that needs to be resolved.
§  Energy Transition – the industry is making great progress to in reducing carbon footprint while at the same time offering the most reliable, economic energy source – certified/differentiated gas, RNG and CCS projects lead the way.

The content/discussion program of the US-Mexico Natural Gas Forum consists of 2 ½ days of keynote presentations, and moderated panels. Keynote addresses include: Tony Payan, Director, U.S.-Mexico Center, Rice University’s Baker Institute; Christopher Lenton, Senior Editor, Mexico & Latin America, Natural Gas Intelligence; Guillermo García-Alcocer, VP Planning, Instituto Tecnológico Autónomo de Mexico (ITAM); Alain Duthoy, Partner, Lexoil Consulting Firm; Guillermo Turrent, General Manager, Energy and Infrastructure Advisors; and Katy Fleury, Economist, U.S. Energy Information Administration.

The Program also includes four moderated Panel discussions addressing a variety of timely topics, with well-qualified industry experts, including representatives from: NRG Business Marketing; Project Canary; Earn DLT; Guidehouse Inc.; Natural Gas Intelligence; Cacheaux, Cavazos & Newton; Columbia University’s Center on Global Energy Policy; Nuevo León Council; Mexican Council For Energy (COMENER); Poten & Partners; Energy Infrastructure Advisors; Glenfarne Energy Transition; WorldCity; Eagle Pass Bridge System; Laredo Bridge System; and Port of Brownsville.

This Forum focuses on the U.S.-Mexico cross-border market, while five other Forums throughout the year address other key regions and market segments across the continent.

Even in today’s digital age, natural gas market participants appreciate an event that facilitates face-to-face interaction. The LDC Gas Forum is uniquely structured to meet this requirement and has been the venue of choice, for thousands of participants, for decades. Registration is still available at https://www.usmexiconaturalgasforum.com/.

Yerba Mate hits the shelves in North America in a new convenient energy drink

The recently created American Yerba Mate Association is proud to present one of its members, Matea, the yerba mate powder set to join in the matcha craze in the U.S.

Matea

Matea

BIRMINGHAM, Mich.Oct. 30, 2023PRLogThe recently created American Yerba Mate Association is proud to present one of its members, Matea, the yerba mate powder set to join in the matcha craze in the U.S.

Boise, ID – October 27, 2023 – Albertsons, and the Idaho Global Entrepreneurial Mission ((IGEM), sponsored a program for food and beverage companies to participate in the 2023 Boise Entrepreneur Week, a specialized program aimed to discover, showcase, and enhance promising young consumer packaged goods companies that were making a significant impact in the industry. After multiple rounds of pitches, Matea was chosen as one of the five finalist brands among dozens of participants. These finalists were then paired with experienced mentors to prepare and deliver their final pitches to industry experts and potential investors.

Matea, a Boise-based company, announces the launch of its groundbreaking biodynamic yerba mate powder. Matea’s is the first and only yerba mate brand in the world to hold USDA Organic®, Demeter Biodynamic®, and American Yerba Mate Association® certifications, revolutionizing how consumers experience this ancient South American tea.

“I was born in Argentina and grew up in the U.S., but I’ve been drinking yerba mate my entire life”- said Lucas Jaramillo, founder of Matea.

Derived from the highest-quality, biodynamic yerba mate leaves, hand-picked from their farm in the rainforests of Northern Argentina, Matea’s powder undergoes a meticulous process to ensure unparalleled quality and taste. The leaves are shade-grown, hand-picked, air-dried, and milled into an ultra-fine powder, maximizing chlorophyll concentration and antioxidants.

Unlike traditional yerba mate, Matea’s powder is fully dissolvable, adding simplicity and convenience. It can be effortlessly mixed into water, lattes, smoothies, or baked goods, providing versatile options for incorporating the benefits of yerba mate into daily routines. Matea’s powder also boasts a smoother, less bitter taste compared to traditional yerba mate, appealing to a wider range of consumers.

Beyond the exceptional taste and convenience, Matea’s powder offers an array of health benefits available for pre-order now on the company’s website, with general availability slated for the holidays.

About Matea:

Matea is a Boise-based, B-corp yerba mate company dedicated to revolutionizing the yerba mate market with its innovative yerba mate powder. With its USDA Organic®, Demeter Biodynamic®, and American Yerba Mate Association® certifications, Matea aims to become a leader in the rapidly growing yerba mate industry. To learn more about Matea and its mission to reshape yerba mate consumption, visit www.drinkmatea.com

About Yerba Mate Benefits

In addition to providing a balanced energy boost, Yerba Mate is a nutritional powerhouse. It boasts a remarkable antioxidant content, with as many antioxidants as green tea and an impressive 15 more amino acids. Surprisingly, it contains an equivalent amount of caffeine to coffee but without the jittery side effects. Furthermore, Yerba Mate offers a wide range of health benefits. It enhances mental function, acts as an immune system booster, fortifies bones, supports a healthy heart, aids in weight loss, and promotes proper hydration. Additionally, Yerba Mate has the highest magnesium content of any superfood.

About AMERICAN YERBA MATE ASSOCIATION, AYMA

Created in 2022 as a 501(c)(3) organization to support entrepreneurs and companies with interests in the production and marketing of yerba mate-related products in the US, AYMA is also involved in the certification of origin, sustainable practices of the production and to bring awareness, education, and scientific research to the amazing yerba mate plant. For more information visit our website www.ayma.co or contact us at info@ayma.co.

Contact
American Yerba Mate Association AYMA
info@ayma.co
2488858213