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Nursing in New Brunswick: Beal University’s Hybrid BScN Program Offers a Time-Smart Path to Nursing

Beal University

“I am not able to put my life on hold for four years,” said Caroline, who has a dream of becoming a nurse. “I want to pursue nursing, but getting a BScN degree has to be something that can fit in with my work and family responsibilities.” This is a common sentiment among people who want to become nurses. Whether they are changing careers or starting a new one, individuals need to understand the amount of time and financial resources required to achieve their goals. Time is money. The popular saying “time is money” is often attributed to Benjamin Franklin and is commonly used to encourage people to value their time and avoid wasting it, as wasted time equals wasted income opportunity. In nursing, every minute counts – the same holds true in choosing the right nursing classes, building your career, and pursuing your goals. Embarking on a nursing education journey is a significant investment of both time and money. For aspiring nurses who are considering their options, a simple cost analysis can provide clarity on the best choice of nursing classes for their needs. In this regard, let us compare the costs between two equally priced post-secondary university nursing programs that yield a similar end: a BScN that prepares a student to write the NCLEX RN exam to become a registered nurse. The first is a conventional 4-year program that requires full-time relocation to the campus, common among universities in Canada. The second is an accelerated, online, hybrid program, like the 30-month BScN nursing program offered by Beal University Canada. By examining factors such as tuition, living expenses, travel expenses, and opportunity costs, we can provide insights into which nursing classes might provide you with the best return on investment. The 30-month BScN Program at Beal University Canada (BUC) BUC’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) Program is designed to provide students with a top-tier education that helps them transition from “learning” to “earning” quickly. It has received preliminary approval from the Nurses Association of New Brunswick (NANB). This BScN has a unique blend of online and on-campus learning that sets it apart. In the first 12 months, students attend virtual classes which are delivered entirely online. This approach fosters flexibility and enables students to adapt to the digital immersion of modern education. However, BUC also recognizes the immense value of hands-on experience. In the next 18 months (about 1 and a half years), the BScN program smoothly transitions to a combination of online and on-campus learning, with on-site labs, innovative simulation, and virtual reality experiences at BUC’s campus in Sackville, New Brunswick, and adds clinical placements at local medical hospitals and facilities. 4 Years vs. 30-months The length of the nursing programs, 4 years vs. 30 months (about 2 and a half years), indicates a disparity in expenses associated with housing, meals, and transportation. Completing the BScN program in a shorter duration enables students to enter the workforce earlier, begin earning a nursing salary sooner, and reduce overall costs. This early entry into the workforce provides graduates of the 30-month BScN program with the opportunity to recover their educational investment faster, potentially accumulate savings, or begin repaying student loans earlier than those completing the longer program. The Impact on One’s Ability to Maintain Income. When choosing a nursing program, it is important to consider the impact nursing classes will have on a student’s ability to maintain a job while studying. Students who are already employed usually must decide if they can keep working while pursuing their education. In a traditional 48-month program that requires full-time relocation to campus, it can be difficult for students to work full-time due to the demanding nature of the program. The need to attend nursing classes, labs, clinical rotations, and study on campus can limit employment opportunities outside of school. However, an accelerated, online, or hybrid BScN program offers more flexibility, especially during the first 12 months of study. With the ability to complete coursework from home on a flexible schedule, students may have more opportunities to work part-time or pursue other income-generating activities while completing their nursing classes. However, during the program’s latter 18 months (about 1 and a half years), when students must attend in-person nursing classes and regular clinical placements, they may have limited ability to work. A Smart Way to Supercharge Your Nursing Future If you are looking for a career that can have a significant impact on people’s lives, nursing is an excellent option. It provides job stability and a fulfilling future, with daily opportunities to make a direct and life-altering difference in people’s lives. Beal University Canada (BUC) is committed to nursing excellence and offers the relevant, up-to-date skills that employers are looking for in the nursing industry. They recognize the vital role nurses play in the healthcare system and actively support your growth and development. In considering your nursing education, it is essential to weigh the investment of time and money against potential returns. Comparing a traditional four-year program to an accelerated 30-month BScN program highlights the importance of efficiency and flexibility in achieving your educational and career goals. A shorter BScN program not only reduces expenses associated with housing and living but also allows for earlier entry into the workforce. This could lead to quicker returns on investment and enhance career opportunities. Additionally, the online components of the accelerated program are flexible and can better accommodate students’ existing work and family commitments, providing a more balanced approach to education and income generation. If you are interested in enrolling at Beal University Canada, you can speak to an admissions specialist for acceptance in the next semester’s intake. Apply now for the upcoming cohort starting on April 29, 2024. To register, please click on the link provided www.bealuniversity.com Contact Details Beal University Admission Department +1 800-660-7351 admissions@bealuniversity.ca

March 20, 2024 09:12 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Report Reveals Alarming Number of Infants & Toddlers Experiencing Homelessness in the U.S.

SchoolHouse Connection

Washington, DC, March 20, 2024 | Today, national non-profit SchoolHouse Connection releases "Infant and Toddler Homelessness Across 50 States: 2021-2022," the most comprehensive analysis to date of homelessness among the nation's youngest children. This report offers the first-ever state-by-state collection of data on infant and toddler homelessness and provides detailed recommendations for policymakers and communities alike. “For the first time, we are able to shine a light on the extent of homelessness among infants and toddlers in all 50 states, as well as the gaps in their access to early childhood development programs," said Barbara Duffield, Executive Director of SchoolHouse Connection. "We urge practitioners and policymakers alike to dig into these data and take action, so that we can prevent long-term harm and interrupt cycles of homelessness that may start at the very beginning of life.” Drawing on an extensive analysis of federal and other available data, the report estimates that nearly 365,000 infants and toddlers experienced homelessness during the 2021-2022 program year across the United States. Alarmingly, the report found that only 11% of these children were enrolled in early childhood development programs, with enrollment rates varying significantly by state. "Early childhood development programs offer a wide range of support for infants, toddlers, and families who are homeless, from essential supplies like diapers and hygiene products, to services that counter the impact of homelessness on child development," said Erin Patterson, Director of Education Initiatives of SchoolHouse Connection. "These programs also facilitate vital connections to both short- and long-term housing solutions. We must redouble our efforts to ensure that every expectant parent, infant, and toddler experiencing homelessness receives access to these essential services." The report concludes with a call to action, offering targeted recommendations for state and federal policymakers to increase the identification of homeless families with infants and toddlers and to improve their access to critical early childhood development services and housing supports. The report also includes practical strategies for early childhood development programs that can be implemented immediately. A link to the report, including methodology, can be found here. About SchoolHouse Connection SchoolHouse Connection is a national non-profit organization working to overcome homelessness through education. We provide strategic advocacy and practical assistance in partnership with schools, early childhood programs, institutions of higher education, service providers, families, and youth. Our vision is that children and youth experiencing homelessness have full access to quality learning, birth through higher education, so they will never be homeless as adults, and the next generation will never be homeless. To learn more, please visit schoolhouseconnection.org. SchoolHouse Connection is a national non-profit organization working to overcome homelessness through education. We provide strategic advocacy and practical assistance in partnership with schools, early childhood programs, institutions of higher education, service providers, families, and youth. Our vision is that children and youth experiencing homelessness have full access to quality learning, birth through higher education, so they will never be homeless as adults, and the next generation will never be homeless. To learn more, please visit schoolhouseconnection.org. Contact Details Barbara Duffield, (202) 549-7668 +1 202-549-7668 barbara@schoolhouseconnection.org Company Website https://schoolhouseconnection.org/

March 20, 2024 08:25 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Beal University’s Health Information Management Program Receives Initial Accreditation for Seven Years

Beal University

Beal University is proud to announce that its Health Information Management (HIM) Baccalaureate Degree Program has been awarded Initial Accreditation for Seven Years by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM). The accreditation was granted following a comprehensive program review conducted by the Health Information Management Accreditation Council and the CAHIIM Board of Directors. The vote to award initial accreditation to Beal University’s HIM program took place on February 16, 2024. This accreditation underscores the program’s substantial compliance with the nationally established CAHIIM 2018 Health Information Management Accreditation Standards. Beal University’s HIM program has demonstrated a commitment to continuous quality improvement in higher education, as recognized by CAHIIM. “We are thrilled to receive initial accreditation for our Health Information Management Baccalaureate Degree Program,” said Sheryl DeWalt, MBA, CPA, President of Beal University. “This accreditation is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our faculty, staff, and students in upholding the highest standards of education in health informatics and information management.” The HIM program at Beal University equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the rapidly evolving field of health information management. Through a comprehensive curriculum and hands-on learning experiences, students gain expertise in managing health information systems, ensuring data accuracy and security, and utilizing technology to improve healthcare delivery. The CAHIIM accreditation serves as a mark of quality and excellence in health informatics and information management education. It signifies that Beal University’s HIM program meets or exceeds the rigorous standards set forth by CAHIIM, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to excel in their careers as health information management professionals. Beal University is committed to delivering a high-quality education and real-world experiential opportunities that positions its graduates for success. Beal’s instructors have working experience in the health information industry and our curriculum aligns with the current environment. This accelerated but flexible online baccalaureate program can be completed in 38 months (about 3 years) for new students but is designed as a seamless stepladder approach that empowers our existing health information technology associate degree graduates to earn a bachelor’s degree with only 18 additional months. Beal University’s bachelor’s in HIM offers graduates a chance to improve advancement opportunities and earn one or more highly sought after credentials. The health information management Bachelor of Science program prepares students for various career pathways in health information and informatics, revenue cycle management, data quality and analytics, health information privacy, risk management, and health care compliance. With initial accreditation secured, Beal University’s HIM program will undergo a comprehensive program review for continuing accreditation in 2031-2032. The university looks forward to continuing its tradition of excellence in health informatics and information management education. For more information about Beal University’s Health Information Management Baccalaureate Degree Program, visit Beal University Health Information Management Program Contact Details Beal University Beal University Admissions +1 800-660-7351 admissions@bealuniversity.ca

March 19, 2024 02:48 PM Eastern Daylight Time

NCMA's Announces New Members to their National Committee

National Contract Management Association

At the National Contract Management Association (NCMA), the focus on providing high-quality resources— events, professional certifications, local networking, and the ANSI-approved Contract Management Standard™ —that positively advance and expand the contract management profession remains the top priority. To help to continue strengthen the association’s strategic direction and growth, NCMA is excited to announce its new National Committee Members, who bring a wealth of experience and expertise to guide their endeavors forward. “Our National Committee Members are essential in providing a platform for meaningful planning and growth for our members and association,” said NCMA’s Board-Chair Elect, Heather Gerczak. “They will be instrumental in inspiring innovation and refining our strategy. I am thrilled to welcome our new members and am excited to collaborate in Program Year 2025.” The National Committee members are seasoned professionals with impressive track records in their respective fields. NCMA welcomes: Joann Campbell-Maher, CPCM, CFCM, CCCM, Director of Contracts, SRC Inc., Chapter: Leatherstocking Chapter Will Cannon, Director of Business Operations, General Atomics Chapter: San Diego Jim Doss, Fellow, CPCM, CFCM, Director of Contracts, BlueHalo, Chapter: Tysons Derek Ebona, CPCM, Chief of the Contracting Office, Program and System Support for Contracting and Procurement Office, Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency, Chapter: Tysons Jessica Johnson, CPCM, CFCM, VP, Services Contracts at Red River Technology, Chapter: Dulles Corridor Wanda Wallace, CPCM, CFCM, Senior Contracts Manager at Magellan Federal, Chapter: Jacksonville This year’s National Committees Members were elected through a competitive application and voting process. These members make a lasting impact on NCMA. The Committees are made up of five groups including audit and risk, governance and ethics, member engagement, professional development and certification, and strategic planning. All who have served have played an instrumental role in helping to shape the associations’ strategy and direction. The National Contract Management Association (NCMA) – www.ncmahq.org – has grown as a professional society whose mission is to collaborate towards a globally recognized contract management profession that strengthens its nexus with related acquisition communities. Serving approximately 20,000 members in both the public and private sectors, NCMA propels the growth, advancement, and impact of practitioners through a steadfast commitment to serve through the open exchange of ideas in neutral forums. Contact Details Holly DeHesa +1 281-865-3296 holly.dehesa@ncmahq.org Company Website https://www.ncmahq.org

March 19, 2024 05:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Spring Bird Makes its Expo Debut at the 2024 Texas Transit Association State Conference, Expo, and Roadeo

Spring Bird

Spring Bird, a name synonymous with excellence and innovation in the transportation industry, is thrilled to announce its first-ever expo attendance at the Texas Transit Association (TTA) State Conference, Expo, and Roadeo from March 15-20, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. This landmark event marks Spring Bird's grand entrance into the expo scene, showcasing their comprehensive range of services, including maintenance, retrofitting, leasing, and sales of transit-style buses. Spring Bird, under the visionary leadership of Elliott Carson, continues the legacy of the Carson family in the bus industry, bringing over 75 years of combined experience and dedication to quality, safety, and customer satisfaction. The company specializes in offering top-tier transit buses from renowned manufacturers like New Flyer, and Gillig, emphasizing the latest safety features and technological advancements. Spring Bird’s cutting-edge rehabilitation services will be the heart of its expo showcase. Attendees will learn about the company’s capabilities in performing minor repairs, major overhauls, and retrofitting buses with the latest low-emission engines and GPS tracking systems. Spring Bird is committed to providing customized solutions that meet clients’ unique needs, whether they want to purchase new buses or service their existing fleets. Elliott Carson, representing the fourth generation of the Carson family in the bus industry, expressed his enthusiasm about participating in the TTA State Conference, Expo, and Roadeo: "We are excited to debut at this wonderful event and look forward to connecting with transit agencies and other entities from Texas and across the United States. Our attendance at the TTA Expo is a testament to Spring Bird's commitment to excellence and innovation in providing high-quality, affordable transportation solutions." Texas is also the home of Spring Bird, located in Austin, TX. The Texas Transit Association, organized in 1986, brings together metropolitan, small urban, and rural transit agencies, along with private and public entities from across the country, making it the perfect platform for Spring Bird to introduce its services to a wider audience. Visit Spring Bird at the 2024 TTA State Conference, Expo, and Roadeo to explore how they can support your transit needs with their high-quality buses and comprehensive rehabilitation services. About Spring Bird: Spring Bird is a premier provider of transportation solutions specializing in the sale, leasing, and service of heavy-duty transit buses and motor coaches. Drawing from the rich Carson family legacy in the transportation industry, Spring Bird offers an inventory of high-quality buses from leading manufacturers and provides customized rehabilitation services, including minor repairs, major overhauls, and technological retrofitting. Dedicated to safety, innovation, and customer satisfaction, Spring Bird addresses the unique needs of cities, transit agencies, and private operators, ensuring reliable and efficient transportation solutions. Contact Details Spring Bird Media Contact press@springbirdbus.com Company Website https://springbirdbus.com

March 18, 2024 03:00 PM Central Daylight Time

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Amesite Inc. Announces 98% Learner Retention Rate, Increase In Sales Activity After Launching Zero Setup Cost, AI-Driven Online Education Platform

Benzinga

By Faith Ashmore, Benzinga Learn more about Amesite by gaining access to their latest corporate deck Dr. Ann Marie Sastry, CEO of Amesite, shared, “We invested heavily in the tech and we believe we are seeing the rewards of this now, in terms of user outcomes and reduced costs of delivery for us and for our customers. Our AI-powered programs and infrastructure enable institutions to deliver learning with lower costs and price points, and we are working now to drive scale.” Learner retention is an important metric for the success of a learning program – learner retention spells more revenue and recurring revenue from satisfied users. Amesite Inc. (NASDAQ: AMST), an artificial intelligence (AI) software company that offers a cloud-based learning platform for businesses and the education market, recently reported industry-leading high retention rates after instituting a no-setup fee model in late 2023. Amesite's cutting-edge learning environments are designed to support a wide range of organizations, particularly colleges and universities. The company’s platforms are known for their user-friendly nature and appealing user interfaces, making it simple and cost-effective for these organizations to introduce their own branded learning programs. By placing a strong emphasis on innovation, Amesite helps businesses and educational institutions stay ahead of the curve. The company offers a zero-cost setup fee for its AI-powered platform and personalized, engaging and efficient learning experiences, which has resulted in a dramatic increase in active sales prospects. On average, the retention rate for comparable paid online courses ranges from 68-73%; however, Amesite has reported an overall retention rate of 96-98% for its platforms. This percentage is split across four major categories of coursework the company has offered: 96% for technology upskilling programs, 95% for professional development programs, 97% for cohort-based programs and 98% for self-paced programs. These numbers highlight the perceived value provided by Amesite’s AI-powered programs to its customers. Over the past year, Amesite underwent a strategic pivot of its business strategy aimed at enhancing its services for partners. The company transitioned to a more cost-effective business plan, distinguishing itself from other SaaS e-learning platforms through a no-cost set-up fee model. This transformation was made possible by leveraging the company's AI capabilities. The introduction of the no-cost set-up fee approach significantly broadened Amesite's target market, enabling companies and universities to deliver professional training without requiring substantial initial investments. Since the pivot to a no-setup fee offer with no minimums, the company has reported a 169% increase in meetings with sales prospects and a 118% increase in sales opportunities. The company has notably signed deals with Benedict College, Drake State Community and Technical College, West Virginia Northern Community College and Joliet Junior College. Mr. Brandon Owens, Amesite’s VP Sales, shared, “Our technology investments have resulted in an offer that every college and university can leverage. Our partners appreciate our straightforward business terms and our ease of implementation.” The company has also recently announced it is teaming up with Partners for Advancing Clinical Education (PACE) to provide accredited continuing education for healthcare professionals. This collaboration means that Amesite, as a Joint Provider, will be able to create and deliver CE programs on their AI-powered platform. These programs will offer continuing education credits in various healthcare fields, providing valuable educational opportunities for learners. According to Market Research Future, the global AI in education market is projected to grow from $3.45 billion in 2023 to $23.82 billion in 2030. The SaaS market is also poised for growth with an expected increase from $167 billion in 2022 to $462 billion by 2028. As Amesite continues to see the positive results of its new AI-enabled model, the company may prove to be well-positioned to expand its partnerships, resulting in more clients and more revenues – and potentially more value for investors. Featured photo by Steve Johnson on Unsplash. Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

March 14, 2024 08:45 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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QuantaSing Group Posts Double-Digit Growth In Revenue, Registered Users In Fiscal Q2 Driven By Growing Demand For Its Senior Courses

QuantaSing

By Meg Flippin, Benzinga QuantaSing Group Ltd. (NASDAQ: QSG), the Chinese online learning service provider, posted double-digit revenue growth in Q2 of fiscal year 2024, buoyed by growing demand for the company’s courses aimed at seniors. For the three months ended December 31, 2023, QuantaSing reported revenue of RMB 980.5 million ($138.1 million), up 24.7% year-over-year. Net income in the quarter was RMB 107.6 million ($15.2 million). That compares to a net loss of RMB 41.4 million in the year-ago fiscal second quarter. The growth seen in the quarterly results was driven by a 44.6% increase in total registered users to 112.4 million from 77.8 million as of December 31, 2022. Paying learners increased 24.2% year-over-year to about 0.4 million. Looking out to the full fiscal year 2024, QuantaSing expects revenue to come in between RMB 900 million to RMB 930 million, representing a year-over-year increase of 11.5% to 15.2%. Capitalizing On The Aging China Population QuantaSing is one of the largest providers of online education for adults in China, focusing on both the learning and personal interest markets. Using cutting-edge technology including livestreaming and artificial intelligence, QuantaSing provides seniors with easy-to-understand, affordable and accessible online courses. It’s capitalizing on the aging population in China, which is growing at such rates the World Bank designated it a “super-aged society.” As of 2023 China had more than 297 million residents aged 60+, accounting for 21.1% of the total population. This group has money to spend and is on a quest to pursue hobbies and continuing education opportunities. It’s one of the reasons why the “silver economy” is valued at around RMB 7 trillion ($982 billion), and is forecast to surge to RMB30 trillion ($4.2 trillion) by 2035, according to China National Radio. “The evolving needs and desires of middle-aged and elderly people in China represent a significant opportunity for us,” Peng Li, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of QuantaSing, said on a conference call to discuss second-quarter results with investors and analysts. “Last quarter, we saw a solid 24.7% increase in revenue, proving that our strategy to expand our course offerings is paying off. We are seizing the opportunity presented by growing demand for courses made for senior learners.” Livestreaming E-commerce And AI To boost its offering, QuantaSing has poured resources into several initiatives including integrating senior learning with livestreaming e-commerce and leveraging artificial intelligence to meet the strong demand it is seeing. Its livestreaming business, which it launched in June 2023, is initially focused on Chinese liquor. In its fiscal first quarter, QuantaSing’s live e-commerce business generated RMB 41.9 million in Gross Merchandise Value (GMV ). With a specialized team creating apps and AI tools, the company is looking for global opportunities and is adding staff to the team toward that end. QuantaSing plans to open AI offices in Hong Kong and Singapore shortly and is developing its own AI tools. QuantaSing isn’t the only learning platform company going after seniors in China. But it's trying to become the app older adults go to for all their learning. The idea is to become synonymous with senior learning in China similar to what Duolingo Inc. (NYSE: DUOL) did for learning a new language, Khan Academy has done for virtually educating students and Udemy Inc. (NASDAQ: UDMY) has done for business learning. That goal is being aided by the government in China, which recently introduced measures to strengthen the silver economy, such as urging enterprises to enhance their offerings for older adults including revamping apps and websites and creating standards for senior-friendly mobile devices. That will benefit QuantaSing as it should enhance the learning experience for its users from a hardware perspective, Li said during the earnings call. Streamlining Operations In addition to churning out new courses and offerings for seniors, the company is also overhauling how it recruits and retains new learners with an eye toward cutting costs. For instance, it recently upgraded its integrated business management process and now conducts pilot testing before rolling out new classes. It also now enables tutors to more easily manage tasks like one-click class reminders. Those efforts are paying off. The company said course completion rates and overall repurchases have increased. The repurchase rate for its standing mediation course, as one example, has increased to 32.8% in December 2023 from 18.4% in September. The goal is to streamline the operation system across all its courses. “As living standards improve, middle-aged and elderly people seek more than just health or longevity. They want experiences that will provide cultural and intellectual enrichment. Our diverse range of online courses includes many which are tailored to the interests of these demographics,” said QuantaSing’s CEO. “Our platform is dedicated to lifelong learning, and we have always emphasized user engagement and satisfaction. This means we are well equipped to fulfill user desire for intellectual stimulation and personal growth.” Featured photo by Alexander Schimmeck on Unsplash. QuantaSing is a leading online service provider in China dedicated to improving people’s quality of life and well-being by providing lifelong personal learning and development opportunities. The Company is the largest service provider in China’s online adult learning market and China’s adult personal interest learning market in terms of revenue, according to a report by Frost & Sullivan based on data from 2022. By leveraging its proprietary tools and technology, QuantaSing offers easy-to-understand, affordable, and accessible online courses to adult learners, empowering users to pursue personal development. Leveraging its extensive experience in individual online learning services and its robust technology infrastructure, the Company has expanded its services to corporate clients, and diversified its operations into its e-commerce business and its AI and technology business. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Leah Guo ir@quantasing.com Company Website https://ir.quantasing.com/

March 12, 2024 08:45 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Comcast Texas Commits More Than $1M to Shrink Local Digital Divide in 2024

Comcast Texas

HOUSTON, TX (March 12, 2024) – Comcast Texas, the Houston area's largest internet service provider, will commit more than $1 million to shrink the local digital divide this year by supporting digital skills training programs, adding more Wi-Fi connected Lift Zones and providing grants to dozens of organizations that help thousands of people. The investment is part of Comcast’s Project UP – a comprehensive $1 billion initiative to advance digital opportunities across the nation and help build a future of unlimited possibilities. Digital Skills in the Workforce Over 90% of jobs available today require digital skills, yet nearly one-third of U.S. workers lack opportunities to build these skills. In 2024, Comcast Texas will continue to fund programs that teach the tech skills needed to land a job and stay competitive in the changing marketplace. Expanding WiFi-Connected Lift Zones and Programming Lift Zones are spaces in neighborhood community centers that provide free Internet access for students and families. In 2024, Comcast Texas will activate a number of new Lift Zones in the surrounding Houston area. There are 53 Lift Zones that serve southeast Texas students and families. In addition to new Lift Zones, additional programming will be added to locations that focus on skills and workforce development. Connectivity & Adoption Grants Connectivity programs give individuals, families and community partners the right tools and resources to take advantage of the Internet. Adoption programs teach the skills needed to increase competency and confidence in technology to use it proficiently. In 2024, Comcast Texas will provide hundreds of thousands of dollars in grants to fund connectivity and adoption programs. “This investment in our communities will literally change generations of southeast Texas families,” said Jose Espinel, Comcast Texas’ Regional Senior Vice President. “Everyone deserves a chance to participate in the digital economy. You can’t do that without the resources and skills to use the Internet. Our commitment will ensure that people from all backgrounds can connect to the moments that matter most.” Comcast Texas’ 2024 grant funding and other support to local organizations will be announced throughout the year. Additional support will be considered for local organizations that raise awareness about connectivity programs like Internet Essentials, a low-cost, high-speed Internet plan for qualifying households ($9.95/mo for up to 50 Mbps, or $29.95/mo for up to 100 Mbps). Internet Essentials also provides low-cost computers, free WiFi hotspots, and free internet training. About Comcast Corporation: 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. About Project UP: Project UP is Comcast Corporation’s comprehensive initiative to advance digital equity and help build a future of unlimited possibilities. Backed by a $1 billion commitment to reach tens of millions of people, Project UP encompasses the programs and community partnerships across Comcast, NBCUniversal, and Sky that connect people to the Internet, advance economic mobility, and open doors for the next generation of innovators, entrepreneurs, storytellers, and creators. Contact Details Ilona Carson +1 346-624-2074 Ilona_Carson@comcast.com Company Website https://houston.comcast.com/

March 11, 2024 04:15 PM Central Daylight Time

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A Call to Action: Revitalizing U.S. Maritime Security for Global Stability and Prosperity

MAR LLC

Rarely is there a day without international shipping in the news. From Yemen's Houthi militants attacking shipping in the Red Sea, maritime food blockades around Ukraine, rising hostilities in the South China Sea, drought reducing traffic through the Panama Canal by almost 50%, global shipping is receiving more attention than ever before. And yet barely four years after the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain crunch, blockade of the Suez Canal by the containership Ever Given, the vulnerabilities of the maritime transportation system remain and more needs to be done to protect American interests. ZERO POINT FOUR sheds light on the industry in a way that has never been done before. Bold new solutions are called for and revealed from this cutting analysis after years of working on the front lines of the shipping crisis. If you want to get a strong understanding of why the U.S. remains vulnerable to supply chain risks and a shortage of military sealift support, then this book is required reading. After years of extensive research, The Maritime Accelerator for Resilience (MAR) released the findings of its landmark study in a book entitled ZERO POINT FOUR, spearheaded by Rear Admiral James Watson (USCG Ret.) and an esteemed panel of maritime, security, ocean and supply chain experts. This critical analysis delves into the challenges and strategic imperatives facing U.S. maritime security, emphasizing its indispensable role in global commerce, national defense, and international peacekeeping and offering near, medium and long term leadership opportunities to mitigate America’s vulnerabilities. In an era marked by complex global challenges, the U.S. maritime sector's decline to a mere 0.4% of the global oceangoing commercial fleet signifies not just a loss of commercial prominence but also a critical vulnerability in national security and global economic stability. ZERO POINT FOUR offers a stark examination of the consequences of diminished U.S. influence on the seas, from eroding economic competitiveness to heightened risks in global supply chains, energy dependence, and environmental sustainability. The book highlights five key principles around security—national, economic, energy and food, climate, and workforce-- and outlines a visionary framework for action, advocating for strategic investments in maritime infrastructure, technological innovation, and a revitalized maritime workforce. These initiatives aim to restore the U.S. as a global maritime leader, ensuring the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of international shipping lanes crucial for the flow of trade, energy, and resources worldwide. Furthermore, ZERO POINT FOUR calls for enhanced international maritime cooperation to tackle piracy, illegal fishing, and environmental hazards, reinforcing the U.S. commitment to upholding the rule of law on the high seas and fostering a climate of global peace and cooperation. The impetus for the book came from the author’s recognition of the US’s vulnerability in maritime security, and its impact on all aspects of American life. From the post-World War II period when 50% of all oceangoing commercial vessels were under the US flag to today’s 0.4%, an unsustainable shift of power and influence has occurred which needs to be remedied. In addition to Rear Admiral Watson, authors include maritime mavens Carleen Lyden Walker and Captain Anuj Chopra, technology and sustainability economist Nishan Degnarain, cyber security, physical security, and enterprise resilience veteran Rich Mason, and global supply chain specialist Jonothan Kempe. The Maritime Accelerator for Resilience urges all stakeholders — government officials, industry leaders, and the public — to unite behind these proposals. By doing so, the U.S. can secure a future where its maritime domain not only thrives but also serves as a cornerstone for global trade, environmental stewardship, and international peace. ZERO POINT FOUR is available for purchase on Amazon using this LINK. The Maritime Accelerator for Resilience (MAR LLC) is a U.S.-based maritime organization operating as a maritime policy accelerator and is dedicated to propelling the U.S. maritime industry into a new era of innovation, security, and global leadership. Collaborating with influential figures in shipping, ocean policy and innovation, MAR aims to advance policy, technology, and operational strategies that enhance maritime resilience and competitiveness. Our vision is to motivate the U.S. maritime industry to global competitiveness, navigating challenges and embracing opportunities in the next decade. For more details, visit: www.maritimeresilience.org Contact Details MAR LLC Carleen Lyden Walker +1 203-260-0480 carleen.lw@maritimeresilience.org

March 11, 2024 01:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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