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NASA Funds 200+ Small Businesses for Innovative Tech Development

NASA invests in 200+ small businesses for developing technologies to protect astronauts’ health and reduce space collision risks. #SBIR #STTR

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A portion of the International Space Station’s solar arrays caps this nighttime view of Earth with aurora as the orbital complex orbited 258 miles above Ukraine and Russia.
Credits: NASA

NASA has chosen more than 200 small business teams to receive funding for the development of technologies that will safeguard astronauts’ health, reduce spacecraft collision risks, and more. NASA’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs have awarded new funding to a diverse range of American small businesses and research institutions, in addition to eight Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs), to support NASA’s future missions.

Each team will receive $150,000 to demonstrate the feasibility and value of their innovations, for a total investment of $45 million. Small businesses are awarded Phase I SBIR contracts, which last six months, while small businesses partnered with research institutions are awarded Phase I STTR contracts, which last 13 months.

The full lists of this year’s SBIR and STTR awardees are available online. About 30% of the companies selected are first-time NASA SBIR/STTR recipients, including nou Systems Inc., a women-owned small business based in Huntsville, Alabama. Nou Systems has proposed a novel approach to automate DNA monitoring of microbes to help quickly identify those that may pose a threat to astronauts.

This technology could first find use as part of the International Space Station’s biological testing equipment. NASA’s SBIR and STTR programs support pioneering ideas from a range of innovators across the country that may not attract the initial private industry funding needed to thrive.

The program enables NASA to collaborate with small businesses and research institutions in need of government investment. Jenn Gustetic, director of early stage innovation and partnerships for Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) at the agency’s headquarters in Washington, said, “Through these early-stage small business awards, we are inviting more innovators into this growing arena and helping them mature their technologies for not only NASA’s use but for commercial impact.”

To learn more about NASA’s SBIR/STTR program and apply to future opportunities, visit:

https://sbir.nasa.gov/

https://q5i.09c.myftpupload.com/category/science/

Automotive

Take On Spring Road Trips

Get your vehicle ready for smooth spring drives with these top tips. From cleaning to tire checks, don’t miss out on essential maintenance.

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Image: A well-maintained car being cleaned and polished by a person, symbolizing the importance of vehicle maintenance for smooth driving experiences.

5 tips to keep vehicles running smoothly

(Family Features) With the windows down and nothing but open road visible through the windshield, spring days often bring out the best driving conditions. When it’s time to hit the pavement, make sure your ride is in tip-top shape following a winter of snow, salt and sand.

Give a Thorough Clean
All that winter buildup can lead to grime both inside and outside your vehicle. A deep clean including the undercarriage, engine bay and obvious areas like doors and windows can help eliminate salt buildup. Give the interior a scrub as well to get rid of trash, dirt, debris and unnecessary items that may be weighing down your car and hurting its fuel efficiency. Plus, that clean look and smell can make road trips that much more enjoyable.

Check (or Change) the Tires
Changing air temperatures can lead to fluctuations in tire pressure. As the weather warms, be sure to check tire pressure frequently to avoid overinflation that leads to wear. It’s also an opportunity to check tread depth as it may be time for new tires altogether.

Change the Oil
While most experts recommend oil changes every 5,000 miles or so, depending on the age of your vehicle, a spring auto checklist isn’t complete without checking (and possibly changing) the oil. Fresh oil keeps engines running as intended, and by changing oil in the spring, you can help ensure you’re ready to hit the road for most – or all – of spring and summer.

Test the Wiper Blades
In many parts of the country, spring means rain. Ensuring wiper blades are ready to take on weather ranging from sprinkles to downpours is practical for maximizing safety on the road. Cold weather and ice can cause cracking on worn out wipers, which makes spring a perfect time to assess winter’s damage.

Consider a Professional Inspection
If it’s been a while since your vehicle was properly inspected, now may be a good time to have a professional take a look under the hood. Wiper blades and tire pressure are easy for many car owners to handle, but alignment, suspension, brakes and other key elements of vehicle safety and efficiency are often best left to those with trained eyes. Letting a certified mechanic assess your ride is a perfect way to ensure you’re ready for the open road.

Find more auto maintenance tips at eLivingtoday.com.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash


SOURCE:
eLivingtoday.com

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fitness

Milk Hosting EVERY WOMAN’S MARATHON – The Only U.S. Marathon Designed for Women, by Women

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SAVANNAH, Ga. /PRNewswire/ — Acknowledging the historically intimidating and male-centric nature of marathons, Milk, the original performance beverage, proudly announces Every Woman’s Marathon, the only U.S. marathon designed by and for women. Scheduled for November 16, 2024, in Savannah, Georgia, this monumental event marks a new chapter in Milk’s commitment to supporting women – creating not only a race, but a movement.

Amanda Gorman’s Inspirational Mantra to Announce Milk’s Every Woman’s Marathon. Join Team Milk in Savannah, Georgia on November 16, 2024, for the only US Marathon for Women by Women. Milk’s unique nutrient package offers high-quality protein, hydration, and electrolytes, providing critical nutrition for runners’ fuel and recovery.

Most women runners feel endurance races cater to men, and nearly 90% want a more inclusive race experience that celebrates all athletic abilities, ages, and body types1. As a solution to this gap in marathon racing, Milk designed the Every Woman’s Marathon to be inclusive, beginner-friendly, and attuned to the unique needs of women at every stage of their marathon journey.

Every Woman’s Marathon is not just about crossing the finish line; it’s about celebrating female strength and empowering every woman’s journey through the transformative power of community. Understanding that every woman has their own reason for running, Milk tapped acclaimed poet Amanda Gorman to create an inspirational mantra designed as a call to action for all women to join the movement. Narrated and penned by Gorman, the mantra highlights women of all sizes, backgrounds, races, and abilities, and why they run.

To help conceptualize Every Woman’s Marathon, Milk enlisted an advisory board comprised of five accomplished female runners, first female marathon finisher Kathrine Switzer, para-triathlon champion Danielle McLaughlin, Olympic Medalist Deena Kastor, trailblazer Alison Mariella Désir and Two-time Olympian and 2018 Boston Marathon Champion Des Linden, who collaborated to create an inclusive experience for women from registration to the finish line. Transcending the traditional race format, this marathon promises participants a comprehensive wellness weekend in the picturesque city of Savannah. The two-day event will include enriching activities such as cooking and yoga classes, live performances, and insightful panels. With thoughtful programming that prioritizes women and families, the event will also feature designated areas for nursing, pumping, play zones, and more, ensuring a welcoming and inclusive experience for all participants.

Beyond providing specialized training advice and nutrition plans tailored for women, backed by the expertise of the advisory board, Milk is further demonstrating its commitment to social impact by donating up to $1 million to charity organizations in support of women and girls across the US. Milk is proud to announce a donation of $100,000 to each of the five Every Woman’s Marathon charity partners, 261 FearlessBlack Girls RUN!Girls on the RunGirl Scouts of Historic Georgia, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®. Milk is also helping runners amplify the impact by matching Every Woman’s Marathon registration costs in donations to the charity partners, up to $100,000 each.

“Milk has a centuries-old legacy of fueling performance and aiding recovery and can help runners go the distance with its unique nutritional package,” says MilkPEP CEO Yin Woon Rani. “We proudly recognize and champion the unique needs of women, and this marathon, crafted for and by women, will redefine the traditional marathon experience. Together, let’s make Every Woman’s Marathon not just a race but a celebration of women’s empowerment, resilience, and the unstoppable spirit of every woman.”

“Words and representation have the power to inspire change and unite,” says poet Amanda Gorman. “I am proud to partner with Milk on this mantra that speaks to the strength and resilience of women, and I encourage all women to take on this 26.2-mile challenge together.”

In addition to providing women with support, inspiration, and community, Milk also provides the essential nutrition runners seek. Milk’s unique nutrient package offers high-quality protein, hydration, and electrolytes, providing critical nutrition for runners’ fuel and recovery.

Starting January 23, 2024, women of all backgrounds and abilities can sign up for Every Woman’s Marathon to join the most inspiring female tribute of the year at EveryWomansMarathon.com. Signing up costs $65, with current Team Milk members enjoying an even further reduced price. Learn more at EveryWomansMarathon.com or @EveryWomansMarathon across social media.

About the Milk Processor Education Program

The Milk Processor Education Program (MilkPEP), Washington, D.C., is funded by the nation’s milk companies and is dedicated to educating consumers and increasing the consumption of fluid milk. For more information, visit MilkPEP.org.

1Interviews of 1205 runners (880 female, 325 male) in September 2023 on behalf of MilkPEP.

SOURCE MilkPEP

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Lifestyle

Discover the Magic of Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort with Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy

Experience the luxury and charm of Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, now available on Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy. Book your stay today! #LuxuryTravel #EmeraldCoast

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A breathtaking aerial view of Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, showcasing the stunning coastline and sparkling blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
Photo by Del Adams on Pexels.com

Are you dreaming of a luxurious getaway to a picturesque destination? Look no further than Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort in Miramar Beach, Florida. This stunning resort has recently announced that select rental properties are now available on Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy, offering travelers a curated collection of premium and luxury whole home rentals in desirable destinations worldwide.

What sets Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy apart is its commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality experiences. Every home in their collection is professionally managed and meets Marriott International’s high standards for design, cleanliness, safety, and amenities. Plus, as a member of Marriott Bonvoy, you can earn and redeem points for all stays.

At Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, you’ll find a sanctuary where the crystal waters of the Gulf of Mexico meet the serene beauty of the Choctawhatchee Bay. With a rich history dating back over five decades, this resort offers a glimpse into a world where luxury and nature coexist harmoniously.

One of the standout features of Sandestin is its diverse collection of homes, each with a unique story to tell. From modern luxury condominiums to charming beachside cottages, the resort showcases a tapestry of history. The properties are architectural marvels, blending Southern elegance with coastal contemporary designs. Every detail is thoughtfully curated to offer unparalleled comfort and style.

Location is key, and Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort boasts some of the most sought-after addresses along the Emerald Coast. Whether you prefer a beachfront villa with breathtaking sunsets or a bay-side retreat with easy access to water sports, each property provides a unique vantage point to enjoy the natural beauty of Sandestin.

Sandestin’s vacation homes are designed to provide an escape where guests can immerse themselves in relaxation, adventure, and luxury. With access to championship golf courses, world-class tennis facilities, and a vibrant village of shopping and dining options, the resort embodies the essence of a premium lifestyle.

By joining Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy, Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort welcomes discerning travelers from around the world to experience the magic of the Emerald Coast. With Sandestin’s historic significance, architectural marvels, and prime locations, guests are in for an unforgettable stay.

To ensure the utmost quality and consistency, Sandestin’s units managed by Sandestin Rental Management underwent a thorough review by Marriott International. Rest assured that these properties meet the company’s high standards for regulation, design, and amenities.

Melissa Watson, the Executive Director of Marketing and Communications at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, expressed her excitement about this partnership, stating, “This collaboration opens up a world of extraordinary experiences for over 150 million Bonvoy loyalty members, offering them a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the luxury and charm of the Emerald Coast through our premium and luxury rental properties.”

When you book with Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy, you can expect 24/7 support, 24-hour check-in either in-person or through a touch keypad, high-speed Wi-Fi, premium bed linens and towels, kitchen essentials, and professional cleaning pre and post-stay. It’s all part of creating a truly exceptional experience for guests.

Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy is the go-to platform for travelers who prioritize premium and luxury rental offerings. Their curated selection of homes connects you to thousands of rental properties around the world, providing space for you to enjoy your most treasured travel moments.

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, the #1 Resort on Florida’s Emerald Coast, invites you to experience 2,400 acres of sheer bliss. With over 70 charming neighborhoods featuring nearly 1,000 vacation rentals, this resort has something for everyone. Whether it’s the pristine beaches, championship golf courses, world-class tennis courts, or the vibrant Village of Baytowne Wharf, Sandestin offers endless opportunities for fun and relaxation.

So pack your bags and get ready to create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, in partnership with Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy, is waiting to welcome you to the stunning Emerald Coast. Book your stay today and experience the unparalleled beauty and adventures that await at Sandestin.

SOURCE Sandestin Investments LLC

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

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