Business, Legal and Law

Secured Signing Unveils Cutting-Edge Features and Enhancements in Latest Announcement

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. -- Secure Signing, a leading provider of digital signature solutions, today announced the release of its latest version, featuring a range of innovative features and enhancements designed to make the signing process smoother and more efficient than ever. These updates benefit users of the We Sign, Form Filler templates, and Remote Online Notarization (RON) platforms.

New Features:

* Enhanced Admin Visibility: The new Admin User Audit Trail report provides detailed insights of Enterprise accounts / plan into admin activities, including: logins, setting changes, and user management, ensuring greater transparency, control and monitoring.

* Edit Signing Process: Users can now Edit The Signing Workflow even after sending documents for signature, correcting mistakes without starting the signing process again . This feature creates flexibility and reduces rework.

* Invitee-focused Portal: The new Invitee Monitoring Portal offers a centralized location for invitees to access and manage all documents requiring their signatures, boosting completion rates and improving their experience.

Key Enhancements:

* Admin Template Management: Admin users with full permissions can now view and Edit Any User's Templates, facilitating collaboration and template optimization within organizations.

* Meeting Scheduling Clarity: The new Meeting Date column in "In Progress" documents displays scheduled RON or video signing sessions, enhancing the meeting management.

* Canadian RON Support: Secure Signing now officially supports Canadian Notaries in its RON platform, expanding its reach and providing Canadian users with a secure and convenient digital signing solution.

"These latest enhancements demonstrate our commitment to delivering a best-in-class signing experience," said Mike Eyal, Founder and Director at Secured Signing. "By continuously innovating and incorporating user feedback, we ensure Secure Signing remains the trusted choice for efficient and secure digital signatures."

More Information:

To learn more about Secure Signing and its latest release, visit https://www.securedsigning.com/ or contact heldesk@securedsigning.com.

About Secure Signing:

Secured Signing is a leading provider of secure and compliant digital signature solutions. With a focus on user experience and advanced technology, Secure Signing helps organizations streamline their signing and approval processes while maintaining the highest level of security. Trusted by businesses worldwide, Secure Signing is the go-to choice for efficient and legally binding digital signatures.

Secured Signing, 800 W. EI Camino Real, Suite 180, Mountain View, CA 94040.

Related link: https://www.securedsigning.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Business, Legal and Law

CDF Labor Law LLP Expands Firm Leadership, Elevates Six Women

IRVINE, Calif. -- CDF Labor Law LLP is proud to announce the promotion of two attorneys to Partner and four to Senior Counsel, all of whom are talented women employment defense litigators. These promotions reflect our commitment to cultivating an inclusive environment that values and advances our team members' diverse skills and contributions. These individuals, part of our nearly 50-strong legal team, exemplify CDF's dedication to guiding and defending employers in California's complex labor and employment legal terrain.

"Each recently elevated attorney at CDF Labor Law LLP has consistently showcased exceptional legal acumen and an unwavering commitment to superior client service," stated Firm Managing Partner Marie DiSante. "In applauding these advancements, we reaffirm our firm's steadfast dedication to delivering top-tier talent to safeguard, defend and advocate for employers throughout California."

CDF New Partners (in alphabetical order by first name):

Desiree J. Ho (San Diego - Partner) has extensive experience across diverse industries and understands the vital role of tailored solutions for clients. She is well-versed in defending employers in wage and hour litigation, including PAGA and class actions, as well as single and multi-plaintiff lawsuits for discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, and other employer-related claims. She advocates taking preemptive measures to best protect clients against wage and hour and other areas of exposure, works with clients to develop strong policies and practices, and guides businesses through difficult employment decisions. Desiree was named to the 2024 list of "Ones to Watch" by Best Lawyers in America(R). She received her J.D. from UCLA School of Law in 2016.

Erin A. Owen (San Diego - Partner) prioritizes personalized service, crafting strategies aligned with client goals in both employment and business litigation. She is deeply committed to her client's well-being and synthesizes a deep understanding of their business, culture, and risk tolerance to best address their legal needs. Erin's employment litigation expertise spans class and PAGA wage and hour disputes, single and multi-party wrongful termination, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation, among other claims, across diverse industries. In business litigation, she handles breach of contract, business torts, trade secret litigation, and shareholder / partner / principal disputes, showcasing knowledge of issues unique to businesses at different stages of their lifecycle. Her comprehensive experience includes counseling businesses planning for and in the transactions process, including managing litigation and its impact on a transaction critical to an organization. Erin graduated from Pepperdine University School of Law in 1996.

CDF New Senior Counsel (in alphabetical order by first name):

Candace R. DesBaillets (San Francisco - Senior Counsel) advises and defends employers, providing practical solutions to mitigate risks. With expertise in wage and hour compliance, termination risk assessment, family and medical leave, and disability accommodation, she handles litigation matters spanning discrimination, harassment, retaliation, contracts, and employment-related torts. Candace has a diverse client portfolio across industries, such as technology, retail, food and beverage, construction, healthcare, and aerospace. Her experience includes representing employers in state and federal courts and before agencies like the EEOC, CRD, and DLSE. With a background in critical gender studies, she offers unique insights to help employers navigate California's dynamic legal landscape. Candance was named to the 2023 and 2024 lists of "Ones to Watch" by Best Lawyers in America(R). She graduated from Berkeley School of Law in 2016.

Dalia Z. Khatib (Sacramento - Senior Counsel) defends California employers on a variety of issues, with a special emphasis on wage and hour class actions, as well as Private Attorney General Act (PAGA) litigation. She has successfully defended employers throughout all stages of litigation, including through trial. In addition to her legal acumen, Dalia's unique background includes helping manage a family-owned marketing and software development company. This hands-on experience managing a workforce has given her a unique perspective in her legal practice and a deep understanding of the challenges that businesses face, particularly in the dynamic landscape of California. This perspective allows Dalia to provide comprehensive guidance to employers on all employee-related issues, including termination, leaves of absence, wage and hour regulations, and compliance with California's privacy regulations impacting employers. Dalia was named to the 2024 list of "Ones to Watch" by Best Lawyers in America(R). She graduated from Davis School of Law in 2018.

Linda Wang (Los Angeles - Senior Counsel) represents clients in diverse industries, including healthcare, food and beverage, manufacturing, and retail. Her practices focus on single-plaintiff FEHA claims, wage and hour disputes, and PAGA and class actions. Wang has also assisted clients in navigating the new California privacy laws (CFRA), including drafting workplace privacy policies. She has successfully defeated wage and hour class action, including obtaining a complete denial of class certification motion in favor of employer. Beyond litigation, she advises on workplace disputes, wage compliance, and privacy laws, showcasing a comprehensive approach to client needs. Fluent in Mandarin, Linda provides legal advice in Mandarin and offers pro bono support, demonstrating her commitment to accessibility and client well-being in the complex landscape of California labor law. Linda was named to the 2024 list of "Ones to Watch" by Best Lawyers in America(R). She graduated from Irvine School of Law in 2017.

Tashayla "Shay" Billington (Sacramento - Senior Counsel) defends California companies against wage and hour class actions and single-plaintiff claims involving discrimination, retaliation, harassment, wrongful termination, and employment-related torts. She also excels in strategic legal maneuvers, conducting thorough discovery processes, and handling motions, mediations, and arbitrations with a track record of success. She has notable experience in defending unfair labor practice charges and counseling both unionized and non-unionized employers on various aspects of labor relations. Committed to protecting businesses and ensuring compliance with California's dynamic employment laws, she also provides comprehensive legal representation with assertive and innovative strategies to navigate the complexities of the legal landscape. Shay was named to the 2023 and 2024 lists of "Ones to Watch" by Best Lawyers in America(R). She graduated Order of the Coif and Order of the Barristers from McGeorge School of Law in 2015.

About CDF Labor Law LLP

For 30 years, CDF Labor Law LLP has distinguished itself as one of the top labor, employment and business immigration law firms in California, representing employers in single-plaintiff and class action lawsuits and advising employers on related legal compliance and risk avoidance. The firm has five offices throughout California - in Sacramento, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Orange County and San Diego.

For more information, visit: https://www.cdflaborlaw.com/ and find CDF on LinkedIn to learn more about how the firm protects California employers.

For access to timely alerts on the latest California labor and employment law developments, sign up for the firm's blog by visiting: https://www.CalLaborLaw.com/.

RELATED LINKS:

https://www.cdflaborlaw.com/attorneys/bio/marie-disante

https://www.cdflaborlaw.com/attorneys/bio/desiree-j-ho

https://www.cdflaborlaw.com/attorneys/bio/erin-a.-owen

https://www.cdflaborlaw.com/attorneys/bio/candace-r.-desbaillets

https://www.cdflaborlaw.com/attorneys/bio/dalia-z-khatib

https://www.cdflaborlaw.com/attorneys/bio/linda-wang

https://www.cdflaborlaw.com/attorneys/bio/tashayla-shay-billington

https://www.linkedin.com/company/cdflaborlaw/

Related link: https://www.cdflaborlaw.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Business, IRS Solutions Software, Product Launches, Software, tax software, Taxes and Accounting

IRS Solutions Releases IRS Advance Notice, Innovative Tax Resolution Platform Feature that Tracks and Alerts Users to IRS Transcript Changes

VALENCIA, Calif. -- IRS Solutions® announces the addition of IRS Advance Notice™ (IAN) to the industry's favorite tax resolution platform. The new feature detects and alerts tax professionals to changes on client IRS transcripts, often months in advance of official notification by mail. CPAs, Enrolled Agents, Attorneys and other tax specialists can work less, earn more, and enjoy steady year-round income with IAN.

The Need for IRS Advance Notice

Former IRS agent David Stone and his wife Suzanne founded IRS Solutions in 2011. A practicing Enrolled Agent, company CEO David Stone uses his insider understanding to develop software that effortlessly generates dependable year-round income by meeting the unique needs of tax professionals.

Speaking about IAN, David Stone says, "Merely reacting to IRS maneuvers isn't enough to provide an exceptional level of service. We must be proactive advocates on behalf of our clients. IAN's transcript monitoring provides clients with a sense of security, protecting them against identity theft, fraud, and other potential risks associated with their tax information."

"No more wasting hours manually sifting through complex transcripts and hoping you don't miss anything," adds Suzanne Stone. "IAN automatically spots tiny but critical changes and lets you know they've occurred."

How IRS Advance Notice Works

Included in every IRS Solutions membership at no additional charge, IRS Advance Notice is software that peers into the IRS system for any updates to transcripts; eliminating the need for constant checking and preventing unpleasant surprises. After a simple, one-time setup, users securely connect to the IRS Transcript Delivery System (TDS) through a proprietary and agency-approved integration, then select from a list of IRS transaction codes they want to be notified about.

In addition, weekly transcript updates are fed directly into your client's profile. IAN observes and alerts to changes like:

* Approvals of Form 2848 (Power of Attorney and Declaration of Representative) and Form 8821 (Tax Information Authorization)

* Impending audit

* Federal tax lien

* Installment Agreement modifications

* Offer in Compromise activity

* Passport holds

Annual transcript monitoring with IAN creates an additional year-round revenue stream and cultivates long-term business relationships by positioning tax pros as trusted advisors. Enrolled Agent Emily VanCamp is leading the way.

"We have had lots of interested people signing up for IAN since we started introducing it," she says. "We think we can realistically expect a 20-30% revenue increase by implementing a full-scale IAN plan this year." Promotional materials including website badges and ready-to-use social media images are provided to all members in an exclusive Marketing Toolbox.

About IRS Solutions:

IRS Solutions is specialized tax resolution software that is designed by tax pros for tax pros. With a monthly or yearly subscription, members gain full access to all features; including comprehensive tax resolution tools like IAN, automated analysis with solution recommendations, bulk transcript downloads, and a custom-branded secure client portal.

Learn more at https://www.irssolutions.com/.

Related link: https://www.irssolutions.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Awards and Honors, Business

MCT Awarded HW Tech100 Mortgage Award for the 5th Consecutive Year

SAN DIEGO, Calif. -- Mortgage Capital Trading, Inc. (MCT®), the de facto leader in innovative mortgage capital markets technology, was announced as a 2024 HousingWire Tech100 Mortgage Winner for the 5th consecutive year. For more than a decade, HousingWire's Tech100 program has identified and recognized the most innovative technology companies serving the mortgage and real estate industries.

The Tech100 Mortgage Award spotlights the most innovative and impactful organizations that are making the housing economy better and more sustainable by increasing efficiency, improving borrower experience, and bringing elasticity to mortgage origination and servicing processes.

MCT has redefined secondary marketing through MCT Marketplace, where buyers and sellers can connect regardless of counterparty approval status. It facilitates optimal execution in every scenario by removing barriers across various execution types and counterparties. MCT Marketplace also offers a greater variety of execution types with enhanced transparency and superior automation compared to alternative exchanges. Distinguishing itself as the sole platform featuring live bids from unapproved counterparties, MCT introduces its patent-pending Security Spread Commitment, converting shadow bidding into real-time executions.

"At MCT, we strive for innovation to simplify capital markets. The MCT Marketplace is reshaping the buy/sell process, and we are proud that its technological advancements are acknowledged for their significant market impact," said Curtis Richins, President and CEO of MCT. "This recognition reflects the dedication of our entire team, highlighting their hard work and invaluable contributions. We are grateful for HousingWire's recognition of innovation within the capital markets sector and are privileged to be among such esteemed organizations on this prestigious list."

Since it's inception, MCT Marketplace has averaged around 4,300 commitments per month for $3b a month in cash window commitments and facilitated an average of 1.5B+ in AOT's every month. Those interested in learning more about the features and benefits of MCT's award-winning technology and services are encouraged to contact MCT for more information.

About MCT:

For over two decades, MCT has been a leading source of innovation for the mortgage secondary market. Melding deep subject matter expertise with a passion for emerging technologies and clients, MCT is the de facto leader in innovative mortgage capital markets technology. From architecting modern best execution loan sales to launching the most successful and advanced marketplace for mortgage-related assets, lenders, investors, and network partners all benefit from MCT's stewardship. MCT's technology and know-how continues to revolutionize how mortgage assets are priced, locked, protected, valued, and exchanged - offering clients the tools to thrive under any market condition.

For more information, visit https://mct-trading.com/ or call (619) 543-5111.

RELATED LINKS:
https://mct-trading.com/software/marketplace/

Related link: https://mct-trading.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Business, LA Sports Awards, Los Angeles Sports Council Foundation, NonProfit and Charities, Sports and Activities

LA Sports Council Announces New President & CEO Matthew Cacciato

LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- The LA Sports Council, the region's premier sports trade association, is proud to announce the hiring of a new President and CEO of the organization, Matthew Cacciato.

Before joining LA Sports Council, Cacciato served as the Executive Director for Ohio University College of Business' AECOM Center for Sports Administration, and their renowned Master of Sports Administration graduate program. He also held the titles of Executive in Residence and Assistant Professor of Instruction. Prior to joining Ohio University, he spent 23 years in the cable sports television industry as a distribution executive for ESPN, Fox Cable Networks and the Yankees Entertainment & Sports Programming Network (YES Network).

"Matt has built an exceptional career for more than three decades across multiple industries providing strong leadership and advancing every organization he's led," said Dave Klewan, Chairman of the Board of Directors for LA Sports Council and General Manager of the Genesis Invitational. "Matt has the right mix of deep experience in the sports world and an understanding of the importance of community and education that can ensure the LA Sports Council continues to be a leader in uniting the worlds of sports and business."

As President, Cacciato's first initiative will be the organization's 19th Annual LA Sports Awards, a flagship celebration honoring the best in LA sports and top moments of the year. Cacciato will also oversee LA Sports Council's community program, Ready, Set, Gold!. RSG! is a community health, fitness, and social and emotional learning program that partners Olympians and Paralympians with Southern California schools to promote active and healthy lifestyles.

"I am excited to join an organization that plays such a vital role in promoting everything LA sports are about: the athletes, organizations, business leaders, and community members that help make Southern California the epicenter of the sports world," Cacciato said. "In a region the size of Los Angeles, you really see the unique power that sports have to bring us together. Our work to unite the LA sports industry can only lead to greater strength and a stronger and healthier community and economy for all."

Cacciato previously served on the board of the Ohio nonprofit organization Recreation Unlimited, a year-round 24/7 respite facility committed to providing the best and safest sports and recreation experiences for youth and adults with disabilities and health concerns. Cacciato also co-founded Blue Beautiful Skies, a non-profit organization focused on raising awareness and funding for lung cancer research benefitting The Ohio State University's James Comprehensive Cancer Center's Thoracic care unit, where his late wife Annie received world class care and treatment for eight years.

About the LA Sports Council:

Founded in 1988, the LA Sports Council, a non-profit 501(c)(6), is the premier sports trade association in the Los Angeles region. Through year-round programming including the LA Sports Awards, LA Sports Innovation Conference, and Ready, Set, Gold!, the LA Sports Council brings together and celebrates the greatest sports community in the world.

The LASC Board of Directors also represents the Board of the Los Angeles Sports Council Foundation and the Southern California Committee for the Olympic Games (SCCOG). Although separate organizations, all entities work together for a common goal.

For more information, visit https://www.lasports.org/.

About Ready, Set, Gold!

Founded in 2006, Ready, Set, Gold! is a community health, fitness and social and emotional learning program that promotes healthy and active lifestyles to children in Southern California schools. RSG! is a public-private partnership between the Southern California Committee for the Olympic Games (SCCOG), The Foundation for Global Sports Development, and several public-school districts. RSG! believes that every student should have equal access to resources that support physical health and academic achievement. For more information, visit https://www.readysetgold.net/.

Related link: https://www.lasports.org/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Business, Reports and Studies

Monthly Mortgage Volume Increases 13.96% In Latest MCT Indices Report

SAN DIEGO, Calif. -- Mortgage Capital Trading, Inc. (MCT®), the de facto leader in innovative mortgage capital markets technology, announced today an increase of 13.96% in mortgage lock volume compared to the previous month. To gain comprehensive insights into the market dynamics, industry professionals and enthusiasts are invited to download the complete report.

For the first time since June 2023, MCT® has observed month-over-month growth in total volume, purchase volume, rate/term refinances, and cash-out refinances. These figures come as the Federal Reserve has decided to maintain interest rates at their current level, with indications that a March rate cut may be unlikely as they persist in their pursuit of achieving 2% inflation.

While the rise in monthly volume across the board is a notable trend, the year-over-year comparison reveals relatively stable total volume. Phil Rasori, Chief Operating Officer at MCT, commented on the current landscape, stating, "The recent decrease in mortgage rates and increase in refinance volume hasn't yet made a meaningful impact compared to a year ago. However, we anticipate a shift in this scenario as we approach a potential Fed rate cut, unlocking the potential for increased refinance and total volume."

To access the comprehensive insights provided by MCT's Lock Volume Indices, interested parties are encouraged to download the full report - https://mct-trading.com/press-release/monthly-mortgage-volume-increases-13-96-in-latest-mct-indices-report/.

MCT's Lock Volume Indices present a snapshot of rate lock volume activity in the residential mortgage industry broken out by lock type (purchase, rate/term refinance, and cash out refinance) across a broad diversity of lenders (e.g., sizes, products/services offered, business models) from MCT's national footprint.

About MCT:

For over two decades, MCT has been a leading source of innovation for the mortgage secondary market. Melding deep subject matter expertise with a passion for emerging technologies and clients, MCT is the de facto leader in innovative mortgage capital markets technology. From architecting modern best execution loan sales to launching the most successful and advanced marketplace for mortgage-related assets, lenders, investors, and network partners all benefit from MCT's stewardship. MCT's technology and know-how continues to revolutionize how mortgage assets are priced, locked, protected, valued, and exchanged - offering clients the tools to thrive under any market condition.

For more information, visit https://mct-trading.com/ or call (619) 543-5111.

MULTIMEDIA:

Image link for media: https://mct-trading.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/mct-lock-volume-indices-7.png

Caption: Monthly Mortgage Volume Increases 13.96% In Latest MCT Indices Report

Related link: https://mct-trading.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Awards and Honors, Business, CalCPA, Taxes and Accounting

KROST Is Ranked Among CalCPA’s Top 150 Firms

PASADENA, Calif. -- KROST CPAs and Consultants has been named one of the Top 150 Firms for 2023-2024 by CalCPA. This award recognizes the firm, with 100% membership. The company is ranked 33rd on the list. The recognition reflects KROST's dedication to professional development and the CalCPA organization. KROST is committed to providing clients with exceptional service and innovative solutions to meet their needs. This award is a testament to unwavering commitment to quality.

"I am thrilled to see KROST being recognized for their hard work and dedication with this prestigious award. Our staff members are actively involved with CalCPA and constantly attending events and webinars that they offer. Being a part of the CalCPA organization offers great opportunities in our profession," said Keith Hamasaki, CPA, KROST Principal & Trustee of the CalCPA Education Foundation.

California Society of Certified Public Accountants (CalCPA) was founded in 1909 and is headquartered in Burlingame, California. It is the nation's largest state accounting organization and serves over 45,000 members statewide in public practice, private industry, education, government, and more. CalCPA, with 14 chapters located throughout the state, is committed to the education and betterment of our members and the profession.

Learn more about KROST's services - https://www.krostcpas.com/services

About KROST:

Established in 1939 in Pasadena, California, KROST is a full-service Certified Public Accounting and Consulting firm serving clients across various industries. Their focus is on recognizing opportunities and creating value for clients by equipping them with the tools to make better business and financial decisions for the future. As trusted advisors, clients depend on KROST to provide timely information, innovative solutions, and result-driven teamwork to ensure success.

Along with providing traditional services, such as Tax, Accounting, and Assurance & Advisory, KROST also provides special services, including Client Accounting Services (CAS), Mergers & Acquisitions, Wealth Management, Tax Specialty Services, and KROST Business Intelligence (KBI).

RELATED LINKS:
https://www.calcpa.org/

Related link: https://www.krostcpas.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Business, Dink Productions, Entertainment, filmmaker Dan Brooks, Funding and Investment, Pickleball, Sports and Activities

Game, Set, Match! Dink Productions Serves Up Kickstarter Campaign for First-Ever Pickleball Full-Length Feature Film, ‘In a Pickle’

LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Dink Productions launches a crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter for their upcoming movie "In a Pickle." By engaging the vibrant pickleball community in this campaign, Dink Productions aims to showcase the massive audience awaiting to see this movie come to life.

Announced by Dink Productions in early January, "In a Pickle" is a love letter to the sport, celebrating the community around it and exploring its playful rivalry with tennis. Crafted by filmmaker, storyteller, and pickleball enthusiast Dan Brooks, alongside music and film producer, serial entrepreneur Jason Reid, who builds pickleball and tennis courts across Florida, the movie captures these diverse perspectives on the sport's rise.

Joel Boyd, an acclaimed comedy writer, actor, and director, adds his witty and relatable humor to create a film that promises to captivate audiences with its unique blend of humor, heart, and sportsmanship.

The writers are launching a crowdfunding campaign to start the pre-production stage of the movie. More than anything else, Dink Productions is looking to have the vast, passionate pickleball community become part of this exciting journey.

The company is teaming up with jojo+lo Pickleball Wear ~ With Flair, a female-founded brand with trendy pickleball apparel and accessories. This collaboration plays a big role in the different tiers and perks of this campaign, and their products are an integral part of some of the rewards that people can enjoy when they contribute to the campaign.

We have partnered with pickleball's largest online community and leading media platform, The Pickleball Clinic, consisting of a Facebook Group over over 125k players and fans, a newsletter with over 70k readers, and a suite of active, content-filled social media platforms including Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.

As an "Official Partner," they will be promoting our Kickstarter, generating hype for the film, running an innovative giveaway, and engaging in other activities such as interviews and social media promotion. The Pickleball Clinic serves as a community for ALL players, from beginners to seasoned pros.

"This Kickstarter isn't just about raising money. We know that there is a huge audience primed for a movie like this. We want to convince big production companies and famous actors that pickleball isn't just a fad - it's a big deal and it needs a movie. With your help, we can show just how passionate this community is. Let's show them why 'In a Pickle' needs to happen!" says Reid.

As the production stage of the movie nears, Dink Productions already knows they have something special.

Dan Brooks says, "The response to our initial marketing on Instagram has been overwhelming and wonderful, and so many people have offered to get involved. Content creators such as Evan Slaughter, Morgan Evans, and The Hype Guys, among many others. We cannot wait to keep bringing more people into this incredibly exciting project, a first of its kind movie that celebrates both the sport of pickleball, and the community that surrounds it."

Be part of cinematic history and help us bring "In a Pickle" to the big screen, at https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/inapickle/in-a-pickle-a-sports-comedy-feature-film

"In a Pickle" Website: https://www.inapicklemovie.com/.

"In a Pickle" Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inapicklethefilm/

"In a Pickle" Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/InAPickleFilm

MULTIMEDIA:

Promo video (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KB6ExpL2OMU

Related link: https://www.inapicklemovie.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

Education and Schools, General Editorial, NonProfit and Charities

10th Annual Cursive is Cool Contest Launches for Students in North America

LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- The American Handwriting Analysis Foundation announced that their annual "Cursive is Cool"® contest is now open to North American students from Kindergarten to Grade 6. The contest dates are January 23 through April 15, 2024.

Students are encouraged to enter early. Prizes will be awarded for First Place, Second Place, and Third Place based on legibility and neatness. One of each prize per grade will be awarded. There will also be a prize awarded for each grade for the most Creative Content and a random drawing will be held at the conclusion of the contest, so every entry has the chance to win a prize!

"We are helping young writers find their voices. Every entry has an equal chance to win. Our judges are excited and look forward to reading the kids' points of view. The entries are enlightening and often entertaining," remarked Lauren Mooney Bear CG, Campaign for Cursive Chair and President of the American Handwriting Analysis Foundation.

The annual cursive contest has many supporters. The North American contest supporters continue to grow, with Holistic Health Counseling Center, Blind Pig Press, Amsterdam Printing, CursiveLogic, Sheila Lowe Author, Dixon Ticonderoga, Fahrney's Pens, Itoya, Louise Borden Author, Caran D'ache, Gary's RV Repair in AZ, Christy Zwenger Author, New American Cursive, J6R6, Mirthos Paper, PEN World, Profolio, Sakura, and Writing Academy. People and businesses from the four corners of North America are enthusiastic about supporting the Cursive Is Cool contest.

"Write don't type! Cursive is creative and it's fun to try different kinds of pens to write with," says Dr. Marion Rollings, Vice-President of the American Handwriting Analysis Foundation.

The contest dates are January 23 through April 15, 2024.

For more information, contact Lauren Mooney Bear: CursiveIsCool@gmail.com.

Learn more: https://ahafhandwriting.org/AHAF_s_Campaign_for_Cursive

"You don't have to be the best writer this year

To win a prize that will bring you cheer.

Entering is the main thing to do

To win a prize to be sent to you!"

About the American Handwriting Analysis Foundation:

The Foundation is a 501-(c)6 non-profit organization, chartered and incorporated in California, and are the sponsors of Campaign for Cursive®, and will graciously accept donations.

Visit https://www.ahafhandwriting.org/.

Related link: https://www.ahafhandwriting.org/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022

African American Short Film Showcase, Business, Entertainment, NonProfit and Charities

BHERC To Cap-Off Their Monumental Season With 29th Annual S.E. Manly African American Short Film Showcase Closing Weekend

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. -- The Black Hollywood Education and Resource Center (BHERC) is pleased to announce the 29th Annual S. E. Manly African American Short Film Showcase (SEMAASFS) closing event, the weekend of January 19-21st, it will include 50 short films. BHERC is also hosting students to see the must-see film Origin, by talented and prolific filmmaker, Ava DuVernay, the first weekend of its release nationally. "We must go out and support our filmmakers and help make their films a success at the box office," noted BHERC President Sandra Evers-Manly.

The BHERC is also sponsoring a special Children's Film Block and "First Weekend Club Family Night", which also include supporting Ava DuVernay's must see film Origin, during its festival closing weekend. The festival was offered virtually on the BHERC streaming service www.BHERC.TV, from December 29th through January 12th. The short film showcase culminates with the in-person closing weekend event, taking place at the Regal at LA Live, 1000 W. Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90015.

With the success BHERC saw with both, "Sista's Are Doin' For Themselves" and "Reel Black Men" Short Film Showcases, 2023 was a landmark year for the organization. BHERC's Youth Diversity Film Festival, also experienced an unprecedented number of submissions and global inclusion. Each festival and showcase in 2023, showed exponential growth, excitement, and notoriety; with "Sista's" being mentioned in an LA Times Article. Some of Hollywood's brightest stars: Gina Prince-Bythewood, Kari Lemmons, Princess Monique, and Numa Perrier, made a point to mention BHERC and its "Sista's" Short Film Showcase, as a major milestone and resource in their careers. The train did not stop there.

The Reel Black Men Short Film Showcase received high praise and special appearances from distinguished filmmakers Michael Schultz and David Massey, a special appearance by rising talented filmmaker Juel Taylor, and the showcase was even allowed to feature Ryan Coogler's short film "Locks" as a special showing at the festival. BHERC hopes to continue their upward momentum by using the 29th annual SEMAASFS, to usher in a new and even more successful year in 2024.

Special Event Highlights

Student Screening and Dialogue of Origin: BHERC will host 1,100 High School and College Students from across Southern California to see Ava DuVernay's groundbreaking and powerful film Origin.

First Weekend Club Family Night: BHERC will again hold its opening night ceremony, with its First Weekend Club Family Night, where members, attendees and special guests will also watch, visionary filmmaker Ava DuVernay's powerful film "Origin". Ava DuVernay is one of the best Hollywood has to offer, and her new film "Origin," is yet another example of her genius.

Weekend Highlights

Children's Film Block: This film block featuring films curated for children ages 10 and up. Films will feature the genres of animation, history, drama and more.

Short Film Showcase: Selected from over 500 entries, the 29th short film showcase films offer a variety of perspectives from around the world. They represent genres and subject matter that include historically based events, romance, drama, sci-fi, horror, documentaries, animation, and comedy to name a few.

Ticketing

Festival passes are available online at https://bherc.org/.

$150 for a Weekend Pass, $75 for a Day Pass and $25 for a 1.5-2 Hour block of films. Senior and student discounts are available. Log on to https://bherc.org/ for the complete schedule and to purchase tickets.

About Black Hollywood Education & Resource Center

Founded in 1996 by Sandra Evers-Manly, BHERC a nonprofit, public benefit organization, designed to advocate, educate, research, develop, and preserve the history, and the future of Black images in the film and television industry. BHERC programs include film festivals, mentoring, book signings, script readings, film and animation contests, scholarships, and other programs and special events. BHERC recognizes the contributions of African American men and women in front of and behind the scenes in the entertainment industry.

BE ACTIVE - ENGAGED - INSPIRED

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/black.hollywood.9

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bhercdotorg/

X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/bhercdotorg

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/BlackHollywoodEducationResourceCenterBHERC

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/black-hollywood-education-and-resource- center/about/

HASHTAGS: #news #bherc #breaking #video #tech #love #film #life #support #today #movie #adult #review #movie #story #filmmaking #filmfestival #filmmaker #camera #director #shortfilm

IMAGE LINK for media (event poster): https://bherc.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Flyer.jpg

Related link: https://bherc.org/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved. ID:NEO2022