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Black Tech Week Returns to Cincinnati for Summer 2023 To Celebrate and Promote Black Entrepreneurship

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CINCINNATI /PRNewswire/ — Black Tech Week, the iconic inclusion-focused tech conference acquired in early 2022 by economic impact organization Lightship Foundation, will return to Cincinnati from July 18–20. Lightship’s inaugural BTW event was highlighted by keynote speaker Serena Williams and drew nearly 1,500 startup founders, investors, creatives and trendspotters to Cincinnati last summer over three days of interactive programming and network building.

Black Tech Week Returns to Cincinnati for Summer 2023 To Celebrate and Promote Black Entrepreneurship

Black Tech Week combines growth-focused content with strategic amplification and advocacy for tech entrepreneurs of color. The event hosts curated social events and startup growth-focused programming, which includes sessions led by professionals specializing in small-business law, marketing, Web3, board selection and more – while promoting the work and businesses of highly successful entrepreneurs and innovators of color who operate largely unrecognized outside of Black tech ecosystems.

“Black Tech Week is a celebration of the Black excellence we see every day in our work with startup founders of color, while also serving as a meaningful catalyst for their enrichment and growth,” said Candice Matthews Brackeen, founder and CEO of Lightship Foundation. “Our journeys as entrepreneurs, investors, professionals and creatives within the innovation economy, while highly individual and personal, are all confronted with similar challenges — so Lightship works hard to make Black Tech Week a space and time for our community to connect, recharge and reset.”

Black Tech Week contributed an estimated economic impact of $7.8 million to the Greater Cincinnati region last year, and promises to deliver even more content and connection for 2023 as the BTW team plans for a significant increase in attendance this year.

“Last year’s Black Tech Week was an extraordinary moment for Cincinnati, with pioneering Black innovators coming together from around the country to build exciting momentum for the future,” reflected Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval. “This kind of programming is exactly what our city needs more of to foster a thriving, diverse ecosystem, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome Black Tech Week back for 2023.”

Tickets for BTW23 are available as of Feb. 16, with a 50% discount if purchased before March 10. Find information and registration for this event on the website.

About Lightship Foundation

Lightship Foundation is an impact-driven organization serving remarkable entrepreneurs and ecosystems across the U.S. By leveraging corporate partnerships, specialized programming and capital investments, Lightship drives sustainable growth within the minority innovation economy. Since 2017, the organization has guided over 200 companies led by women, FOC (Founders of Color), and those entrepreneurs representing the LGBTIQ and disabled communities to more than $120 million in venture funding.

About Black Tech Week

Black Tech Week is an inclusive ecosystem-building experience driven by community and corporate collaboration. BTW connects investors, entrepreneurs, tech professionals and creatives across several days of curated content, social events and incredible energy. Connect with Black Tech Week on TwitterFacebook and Instagram, and visit the Black Tech Week website for more information.

SOURCE Lightship Foundation

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McCain Foods Delivers on Promise by Planting 18,000 Trees in Wisconsin

McCain Foods fulfills promise, planting 18,000 trees in Wisconsin, beautifying Plover and promoting sustainability. A true commitment to the environment and community. #McCainFoods #Sustainability

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In a heartwarming display of commitment to the environment and the Plover community, McCain Foods has fulfilled its promise by planting 18,000 trees throughout Wisconsin. This inspiring initiative was part of the company’s pledge to replace and increase the number of trees cut down for the expansion of their appetizer processing plant in Plover.

A group of volunteers planting trees in a park, representing McCain Foods' commitment to sustainability and community.
McCain Foods and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources planted 18,000 new trees in Plover and surrounding communities last week. (prnewswire)

Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony:
Celebrating this remarkable achievement, McCain hosted a special ribbon-cutting ceremony in Plover last Friday. Howard Snape, the president of McCain Foods North America, expressed his pride in the company’s contribution. “With this initiative, McCain has added three times the number of trees we had to clear in Plover, beautifying the community while increasing its sustainability,” Snape shared. This event not only marked a milestone for McCain but also highlighted their dedication to fostering thriving communities.

Tree Planting Locations:
The 18,000 newly planted trees can be found in various locations, including the Douglas County Forest and throughout the Plover community. This carefully planned distribution ensures that the positive impact of the initiative is widespread. Local elementary schools, homes of growers, and the residences of McCain employees have all benefited from this sustainability effort. By incorporating trees into these areas, McCain aims to enhance the overall beauty and vitality of the community.

Commitment to Rural Areas:
With a network of 3,500 farmer partners worldwide, McCain has a significant presence in rural areas, often serving as the largest employer within those communities. The company values its role in creating sustainable livelihoods and fostering community development through donations, volunteering, and similar initiatives. The tree planting project is yet another testament to McCain’s dedication to these principles.

Sustainable Mission:
Sustainability lies at the core of McCain’s mission, as the company strives to celebrate real connections through delicious, planet-friendly foods. In line with global efforts to combat climate change, McCain has committed to reducing its emissions by 50% by 2030. This ambitious goal aligns with the international push to limit the rise in global temperatures to 1.5°C.

A Greener and More Sustainable Community:
McCain Foods’ tree planting initiative showcases the company’s dedication to the environment and the communities it serves. By fulfilling their promise and planting 18,000 trees, McCain has not only beautified Plover but has also helped create a greener and more sustainable community. This initiative reflects their ethos of promoting environmental stewardship, community engagement, and long-term sustainability.


McCain Foods’ commitment to replanting and increasing the number of trees cut down for their expansion project in Plover is truly commendable. By planting 18,000 trees throughout Wisconsin, they have not only fulfilled their promise but have also made a significant positive impact on the environment and the Plover community. McCain has once again demonstrated their dedication to sustainability, showcasing their determination to make a difference for future generations.

About McCain Foods USA
McCain Foods USA is a leading supplier of frozen potato and snack food products for the foodservice markets, retail grocery chains and private label brands in restaurants and supermarket freezers across the country. McCain Foods USA Inc., headquartered in Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois, employs 4,000 people and operates production facilities in Idaho, Maine, Nebraska, Washington and Wisconsin. https://www.mccainusafoodservice.com/

https://stmdailynews.com/category/the-bridge

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Unity and Support: Baltimore’s Response to the Key Bridge Collapse

“Baltimore’s Orioles and Ravens unite, donating $10M to Key Bridge Fund after tragic collapse. Community stands strong in the face of adversity.”

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"Orioles and Ravens logos side by side - Unity in support after Baltimore Key Bridge tragedy."
Dali 10 hours after the collapse with remnants of the bridge’s superstructure on its bow. Note the section of roadway. Wikipedia

In a display of unity and generosity, Baltimore’s major league franchises, the Orioles and the Ravens, have joined forces to donate $10 million towards the recovery efforts following the tragic collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge on March 26. The donation will be channeled through the Baltimore Community Foundation’s “Maryland Tough Baltimore Strong Key Bridge Fund,” aiming to provide financial assistance to the families of victims, port workers, first responders, and others impacted by this devastating event.

New Orioles owner, David M. Rubenstein, emphasized the city’s resilience in the face of adversity, noting that the donation reflects a commitment to supporting those who play pivotal roles in maintaining the city’s operations. Ravens owner, Steve Bisciotti, expressed heartfelt condolences to the victims and their families, acknowledging the bravery and dedication of the first responders involved in the rescue efforts.

The collapse, triggered by a container ship losing control and striking a pier, resulted in the tragic loss of six construction workers with two individuals fortunate to be rescued from the river. This catastrophe has undoubtedly shaken the community, but the response from the Orioles, Ravens, and the wider Baltimore community speaks volumes about their solidarity and determination to stand together during times of crisis.

As the city mourns the lives lost and works towards recovery, the support from these sports franchises serves as a beacon of hope and solidarity. The resilience and strength displayed by Baltimore and Maryland in the wake of this tragedy are a testament to the unwavering spirit of its people. Through collaboration and compassion, the community is coming together to heal and rebuild, showcasing the true essence of unity in the face of adversity.

https://abcnews.go.com/US/baltimore-ravens-orioles-donate-10-million-key-bridge/story?id=108945428#:~:text=The%20Baltimore%20Ravens%20and%20Baltimore,Baltimore%20Strong%20Key%20Bridge%20Fund.

About the Key Bridge Collapse

Key Bridge collapsed on March 26, 2024, at 01:27 EDT (05:27 UTC) due to a collision with a Singapore-registered container ship named MV Dali. The ship lost power and hit the southwest supporting pier of the main truss section. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) reported that the bridge was built before the use of redundant support structures, which are now commonly used in modern bridges. The NTSB stated that these structures would have prevented the collapse.

During sonar exploration, it was discovered that several vehicles were submerged underwater, and two individuals were rescued alive from the river. Maryland Governor Wes Moore declared a state of emergency, acknowledging that the situation could have been much worse. However, the actions of the ship’s crew, who sent a distress signal, and the workers on the bridge, who prevented other vehicles from crossing the bridge moments before the collapse, helped to save many lives. Following the incident, insurers are expected to face multi-billion dollar losses due to damages, business disruptions, and liability claims.

An eight-worker repair crew was working on a bridge when a collision occurred. It is believed that the crew members are the only victims of the disaster. During the search and rescue operation, two of the victims were found inside a red pickup truck, submerged under 25 feet of Patapsco River water, near the mid-span of the collapsed bridge. Due to the unfavorable water conditions, further search operations have been suspended. (Wikipedia)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francis_Scott_Key_Bridge_(Baltimore)

https://stmdailynews.com/

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National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day: Celebrating Small Business Excellence in 2024

“March 29 is National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day! Let’s celebrate the small businesses that make our communities thrive. #SupportLocal”

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March 29th is a day dedicated to appreciating the hardworking small business owners who contribute to the growth and vitality of our economy, “Mom and Pop Business Owners.” On this special day, we acknowledge the more than 27 million small businesses in the country and shine a spotlight on their remarkable efforts.

National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day was established by Rick and Margie Segel in honor of their parents and the success of their clothing shop that started from humble beginnings. It’s a time to recognize the long hours, dedication, and hard work it takes to run a small business.

Celebrating National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day!

So, how can we celebrate this important day?

  1. Shop Local: Support the small businesses in your community by seeking them out and becoming a regular customer. Whether it’s a local bookstore, bakery, or boutique, make it a point to visit them frequently. If you hear about an interesting spot, go on an adventure to discover it and then share your recommendations with friends.
  2. Use Social Media: Most small businesses are grateful for any extra attention they can get. Show your support by following your favorite mom and pop shops on social media platforms, and whenever possible, promote and share their posts. A simple like or comment can go a long way in helping them reach a wider audience.
  3. Write a “Thank You” Note: Take a moment to express your gratitude to the mom and pop shop owners and employees who have made a difference in your life. Let them know how much you appreciate their hard work and dedication. A heartfelt note can mean the world to someone who puts their heart and soul into their business.

Now let’s delve into why we love mom and pop businesses:

  1. Personalized Shopping Experience: Mom and pop businesses take pride in providing personalized service to their customers. They take the time to get to know you, understand your needs, and make your shopping experience memorable. Unlike large retail chains, they genuinely care about their customers and strive to create a unique and enjoyable experience with superior customer service.
  2. Community Support: Small businesses play a crucial role in supporting the local community. They create job opportunities, hire locally, and recycle the money they earn back into the neighborhood. By choosing to spend your dollars at mom and pop establishments, you contribute to the growth and sustainability of your community.
  3. Unique Discoveries: In a world where big-box stores dominate, mom and pop shops bring a breath of fresh air and unique products to the marketplace. They often showcase goods that are different from what you’ll find in every chain store. Discovering something special and undiscovered is quite the delight, and supporting these businesses encourages innovation and diversity.

National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day is a reminder of the remarkable contributions made by small businesses. They are the backbone of our economy, providing jobs, personalized service, and unique experiences for customers. So, on March 29th, let’s show our appreciation for these hardworking individuals and make a conscious effort to support and celebrate the mom and pop shops in our communities.

https://nationaltoday.com/national-mom-pop-business-owners-day/

https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/

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