Posts made in August 2021

Drunk Driving Prevention Technology

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10 Things to Know About the Drunk Driving Prevention Technology Provision in the Infrastructure Bill

Congressional approval will result in state-of-art smart technology in all new cars to eliminate drunk driving

A key provision in the U.S. Senate’s bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, if passed, would lead to a new national safety standard requiring state-of-the-art smart technology in all new cars that would ultimately eliminate drunk driving. A similar provision is included in the U.S. House-passed INVEST in America Act.

This comes as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports alcohol-related traffic deaths rose by 9 percent in 2020 despite vehicle miles traveled plummeting by 430 billion miles. Additionally, drunk driving is costing the U.S. economy $120 billion a year.

“Passage of this legislation would be the most significant, lifesaving public policy victory in MADD’s 41-year history,” said MADD National President Alex Otte. “It would mark the beginning of the end of drunk driving.”

Here are 10 things to know about the drunk driving prevention tech provision:

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) would initiate a rule-making process.

The legislation gives NHTSA three years to evaluate technologies and set the standard for impaired driving prevention technology on all new vehicles.

Automakers would be given two to three years to implement the new standard.

New cars equipped with the NHTSA-directed technology could start rolling off the assembly line in 2026-2027.

Advanced passive technology systems to prevent drunk driving already exist or are in development.

MADD documented in a Request for Information (RFI) response to NHTSA in May 2021 that 241 advanced drunk and impaired driving prevention technologies exist. Many of them could be deployed today.

Driving performance monitoring systems that monitor the vehicle movement with systems like lane departure warning and attention assist;
Driver monitoring systems that monitor the driver’s head and eyes, typically using a camera or other sensors;
Passive alcohol detection systems that use sensors to determine whether a driver is drunk and then prevent the vehicle from moving.

Driving performance and driver monitoring systems could be beneficial not only to prevent drunk driving, but to detect other dangerous behaviors that lead to crashes such as drowsy driving, distracted driving, and even medical emergencies.

Passive alcohol detection systems are not simple breathalyzers or ignition interlock devices.

This smart technology has no relation to police breathalyzers or to ignition interlock devices that require a motorist to actively blow into a device. Advanced alcohol detection systems use sensors integrated into a car that passively determine if the person behind the wheel is drunk.

Research supports technological solutions to end drunk driving.

More than 9,400 lives could be saved annually if all new cars have drunk driving prevention technology as standard equipment, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

The technology should be mandated, not voluntary, as standard equipment in all new cars.

The auto industry has the resources and expertise to make safety advancements like drunk driving prevention a reality, much the same way it has used its R&D prowess for self-driving vehicles, electrification and many safety innovations.

Some examples:

Volvo

Volvo has been adding in-car sensors and cameras to its vehicles, aimed at enhancing safety by monitoring drivers for signs of intoxication and distraction, then intervening to prevent crashes. It made the following announcements in March 2019.

Nissan

Nissan unveiled a new concept car in 2007 with multiple preventive features against drunk and impaired driving. It used alcohol odor sensors, facial monitoring and vehicle operational behavior to detect driver impairment.

Toyota

Toyota announced a drunk driving prevention system in 2007 with hopes of having it in cars by the end of 2009. The technology was described as a fail-safe system using sensors to detect the bodily presence of alcohol or impaired behavior.

The timeline is reasonable.

MADD is confident the timeline can be met with existing technologies and those currently being developed. For example, one technology entity that is pursuing DUI-prevention technology, The Driver Alcohol Detection System for Safety (DADSS), states that their current timeline for use in consumer vehicles is by 2024 for the breath system and 2025 for the touch system. This timetable for installation in cars is well within the statutory and regulatory timeline specified in the pending congressional legislation.

MADD is neutral on the technology options.

As MADD documented in a Request for Information (RFI) response to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in May 2021, there are many potential technologies to prevent drunk driving. As soon as any one solution is proven effective, it must be introduced and implemented immediately as standard equipment in all new cars. If additional drunk driving prevention technologies are proven effective, they should be implemented subsequently.

MADD is spearheading this bipartisan effort.

The House bill is championed by Reps. Debbie Dingell (D-MI), David McKinley (R-WV) and Kathleen Rice (D-NY). The Senate bill is led by Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Rick Scott (R-FL), Gary Peters (D-MI), and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV).

Provisions from the Senate bill are now included in the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that the full Senate is considering now. Similar provisions are included in the House-passed INVEST in America Act.

American consumers strongly support Congressional action.

According to a recent nationwide poll conducted by Ipsos for MADD, 9 of 10 Americans support technology that is integrated into a car’s electronics to prevent drunk driving (89% say it is a good or very good idea), while 3 of 4 (77%) back Congressional action to require this technology in all new vehicles. More broadly, 8 of 10 (83%) believe that new auto safety features should be standard in vehicles as they become available, not part of optional equipment packages.

About Mothers Against Drunk Driving
Founded in 1980 by a mother whose daughter was killed by a drunk driver, Mothers Against Drunk Driving® (MADD) is the nation’s largest nonprofit working to end drunk driving, help fight drugged driving, support the victims of these violent crimes and prevent underage drinking. MADD has helped to save more than 400,000 lives, reduce drunk driving deaths by more than 50 percent and promote designating a non-drinking driver. MADD’s Campaign to Eliminate Drunk Driving® calls for law enforcement support, ignition interlocks for all offenders and advanced vehicle technology. MADD has provided supportive services to nearly one million drunk and drugged driving victims and survivors at no charge through local victim advocates and the 24-Hour Victim Help Line 1-877-MADD-HELP. Visit MADD or call 1-877-ASK-MADD.

About The Survey
The poll was conducted March 5 to March 7, 2021, by Ipsos using their KnowledgePanel®. This poll is based on a nationally representative probability sample of 1,016 general population adults age 18 or older, with a margin of sampling error of +/- 3.3 percentage points at the 95% confidence level.

6 Ways to Make Your Kitchen More Sustainable

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We hear a lot about sustainability and we know that it’s something that is supposed to be good for us. Yet most of us are not quite sure what it means to be sustainable, or how we can incorporate sustainability into our everyday lives. The good news is that understanding sustainability and making it a priority is not only easy, it is something that everyone can do and feel good about. The kitchen is a great place to start for those who want to make some healthy green changes in their lives.

“It’s not difficult for people to become more sustainable, especially if they start in the kitchen,” explains Sarah Scott Mitchell, co-owner of Neutrall, a company specializing in sustainable glassware. “It’s really just a matter of knowing some of the different things you can do to live a life that is considered to be more sustainable. The more people know, the easier it becomes.”

Sustainability, according to the United Nations, is defined as meeting the needs of the present without compromising our future generations to meet their own needs. Essentially, when you opt for sustainability, you will be making choices that won’t harm the planet in the future. While you want to be able to use the products that you need today, you don’t want to do so at the expense of tomorrow.

The kitchen is a great place to start, because the choices we make that are related to this room in the home is linked to sustainability in a big way. From buying more organic products to creating a compost bin for scraps, there is a lot people can do to help create a greener and more eco-friendly kitchen. Here are 6 ways to make your kitchen more sustainable:

Recycle. Keep a little basket on the counter, or bin in the cupboard, where you can toss items that need to recycled. There are many foods that have packaging that can be recycled. Put it in the bin for convenience, and once that bin is full take it to the garage to dump into the main recycling bin.
Reduce waste. The United State Department of Agriculture reports that food waste is estimated to be 30-40% of the food supply. Think about how often you toss leftovers or find things that have gone bad in the crisper. Reduce the amount of food waste you are creating by only buying what you need, freezing what you can’t use right away, not making more than you need, and giving away leftovers that you otherwise won’t eat.
Buy organic and local. Make an effort to purchase more foods that are organic and made locally as well as use eco friendly catering supplies, to reduce pollution and the carbon footprint.
Check your dishes. Not all dishes and cookware are made sustainably. Some have traveled thousands of miles to reach America, and are made through means that were not environmentally friendly. Opt for items that are more eco friendly, such as the sustainable glasses by Neutrall, which are carbon neutral and made in the USA.
Opt for natural cleaning. Cleaners with harsh ingredients are not only bad for the environment, but they are bad for human health as well. Opt for non-toxic cleaners that are all plant based such as Therapy Clean.
Commit to green choices. The first step to creating a greener and more sustainable kitchen is to make the commitment to do so. It’s easy for people to continue with what they have been doing, but when you rise to the challenge and make some changes you will feel great knowing you are helping the planet be healthier for generations to come.

“Once people make the choices to make life in the kitchen more sustainable it becomes easy,” added co-founder Ernesto Humpierres. “By providing people with a way to have sustainable glassware we are part of the solution, and we are really happy about that.”

All Neutrall glassware is made in the USA, upcycled, sustainable, and is shipped in eco-friendly packaging. The company was created by Mitchell and Humpierres, who live in Austin, Texas, with their young twins. The first product launched by Neutrall is a set of two upcycled 8-ounce glass cups that are shipped in sustainable packaging. The sturdy and compact glasses are great for morning juices and drinks, and great for small hands. They are great for families, and to give as gifts for weddings and house warmings. To get more information about Neutrall or place an order, visit the site HERE.

What Is A Football Prop Bet? Here’s What To Know Before Making One

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Betting on sports can be a lot of fun and even be lucrative when you have luck on your side and know what you’re doing. But, there is an aspect that makes athletic wagers even more exciting. There is another type of sports bet called a prop. A “prop” is short for propositional bet. It is often a side bet that involves something very specific during game time.

What makes it exciting is how random these bets can be, so winning gives you an extra jolt. Props take a lot more luck than just betting on the win or loss of a particular team or game, but there are ways that can help you improve your odds.

In this article, we will go over exactly what a prop bet is and how you can make one yourself.

Prop bet examples

The idea of a prop bet is to find something interesting about a player or team to bet on. An example would betting that the New England Patriots’ defense will score a touchdown in this week’s game. Or, you could bet on how many touchdowns Tom Brady will make for Tampa Bay against his old team, the Patriots.

The possibilities are endless, which is what makes these types of bets so fun. You can see a good return if you actually win, since the odds are really stacked against you. Most of the time prop bets are pretty small, so you can keep it economical and hopefully make something in return.

There Is A Little Bit Of Skill Involved

One of the reasons that these bets are played is because there has been some research conducted. For example, you can find out how many touchdowns a certain quarterback has made during the third quarter in his career. With this kind of information, you can make an informed bet.

There are lots of sites in which inform readers on these kinds of stats. That way, you can make a prop bet according to the information you feel comfortable with. Check the Awesemo NFL player props to get an idea of the stats that might be able to help you.

If you are a new gambler, these bets may not be good if you have the intention of actually winning. They can be fun for the beginner when you do make a good bet that comes through. But, there is a lot of luck involved for that to happen. An experienced bet-maker will have better odds, though they are still not in your favor.

Because of the nature of these bets and the high payouts, they are usually capped by most sports books at a couple of hundred dollars, or at most $500. One other thing to consider is that these prop bets don’t move in unison with the line. As the line changes, the odds likely stay the same for the prop bet.

SKAM Summer Music Summit

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Grammy award winning artist LIL JON will kick off the First Annual SKAM Summer Music Summit to take place August 22-23, 2021 in Hollywood, CA. The Summit will take over the entire 178-room Dream Hollywood, along with a schedule of events utilizing the hotel’s Highlight Room rooftop as well as neighboring venues around town.

The Music x Tech x Influencer 2-day conference-style celebration on August 22nd and 23rd, will include over 500 DJs, plus top radio programmers and execs.

On Sunday, August 22nd, LIL JON, alongside Eric Dlux, DJ Five, Nick Ferrer will power a poolside party at Highlight Room at Dream Hollywood starting at 3pm. The party continues after-dark at 10pm with Angie Vee, Deux Twins, Lezlee and Vtech.

On Sunday, August 22nd, SKAM Summer Music Summit is also taking over 3rd Base LA from 11am-3pm (no cover) with music by DJ Ever, Jerzy, Nick Rockwell an DJ Precise from 97.1 AMP Radio in Los Angeles, as well as State Social House in West Hollywood from 12noon to 4p, powered by DJ Edizz, Dre Sinatra, and Chris Rodgers. There will also be a Headliner Music Club event, with details coming soon, along with more announcements to follow.

A 24-hour livestream will also be incorporated into the itinerary of the summit, allowing worldwide access if not attending the exclusive summit in Hollywood, as well as streaming in each hotel room of the Dream Hollywood. Music artists and DJS across all genres will be featured LIVE from the Guest House at the Dream Hollywood and live streamed.

The 2 days summit is sponsored by Travis Scott’s CACTI Agave Spiked Seltzer, Jack Daniels, Tequila Herradura and Jardín.

Created by Sujit Kundu, the founder and CEO of S.K.A.M. Artist and Skam Division (A Top DJ, Radio Programming and Music Artist Booking Agency), the Summit will coincide with his annual birthday blowout, which has become a much-buzzed about annual celebration. DJs from all around the world will be streaming direct from Dream Hollywood and other venues around LA, to be announced soon, with hundreds of DJs and notable artists in attendance. His roster includes everyone from Samantha Ronson to DJ Irie to Lil Jon to Eric Dlux to Harm Franklin along with DJ Five, Justin Credible and newcomers to the roster like Angie Vee.

2021 marks the 26th consecutive 21st birthday extravaganza for Kundu. Be sure to follow SkamArtist for more announcements. All details and updates can be found on the official website, which allows you to submit an application for room reservation.

Jewish Community Foundation

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JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF LOS ANGELES AWARDS $1 MILLION IN GRANTS TO ADVANCE EDUCATION EQUITY

Seven Local Nonprofits in Communities of Color Receive Support for Programs to Address Education Equity, Provide Resources for Success

The Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles (The Foundation) today announced it has awarded a record $1 million to seven local nonprofits that address issues related to education equity.

The funding supports community-led organizations that connect students with strong mentors, focus on the specific needs of young people of color, increase access to health services for students of color and their families, and empower students to advocate for their educational needs.

The distributions are part of the institution’s General Community Grants which focus on high-priority social issues locally. In recent years, these grants have addressed homelessness, overcoming barriers to employment, human trafficking, as well as sexual and domestic violence. This new round of awards also builds upon The Foundation’s Racial Equity Grants given last year.

The recipients of this year’s awards – a new record-high for General Community Grants and a 66 percent increase from 2019 – are Antelope Valley Boys & Girls Club; Bridge Builders Foundation; EmpowHer Institute; Girls Club of Los Angeles; Heart of Los Angeles Youth Inc.; Social Justice Learning Institute; and Special Needs Network.

Foundation President and Chief Executive Officer Marvin I. Schotland stated: “The pandemic has exacerbated existing inequities in our education system that disproportionately affect students of color who lack the resources to successfully learn remotely. This only widens an already-existing education gap which will result in a significant learning loss that will take years to address.”

He continued: “The Foundation selected these outstanding programs recognizing that those closest to the communities they serve are best able to understand and respond to their needs. All of these recipient organizations are based in communities of color with demonstrated track records of service, and strong, impressive leadership.”

Beyond grant funding, The Foundation works closely with grant recipients to offer additional support including professional development, technical support, and referrals to other funders in its network. “We believe that money alone will not solve the pressing issues facing our communities,” said Mr. Schotland. “That’s why we proudly invest much time and energy engaging with our grant recipients and providing resources to help them strengthen their organizations and reach their goals.”

As part of its process to identify the recipients, The Foundation consulted with leading funders and experts in the field. This included the participation of Kaci Patterson, who leads the Black Equity Collective and who helped guide the review of prospective organizations.

About the Grant Recipients

Antelope Valley Boys & Girls Club helps young people ages 6-18 years old to reach their full potential through youth development programs that emphasize career and academic preparedness, healthy lifestyles, character, and good citizenship. Grant funds will expand Project Learn – the Club’s education and enrichment programming – increasing program hours and reducing staff-to-youth ratios at its two main program sites.
Bridge Builders Foundation (South Los Angeles) is a primarily volunteer-led nonprofit that provides educational and socio-emotional support to youth of color, particularly Black young men and boys, through its strong mentoring network, tutoring, scholarships, and focus on STEM education. Grant funding will support the growth of its Thriving Under the Influence mentoring program from three to five school site partners, expand staffing, and provide for mentor training, program supplies, and field trips.
EmpowHer Institute (Westchester) provides academic support, training, and mentorship to enable marginalized girls and young women to become confident, to break the cycle of poverty, and to be prepared for college and careers. Grant funding will support the expansion of EmpowHer Girls Academy and EmpowHer Leaders Academy, doubling its reach.
Girls Club of Los Angeles is an established community center that enriches the lives of underserved, at-risk boys and girls, youth and families through early education, youth development, and community outreach. Grant funds will expand the number of children served, support developing and implementing trauma-informed practices into its curriculum and, in turn, train educators at 14 early childcare centers in its Early Learning Alliance Network who serve about 3,000 children.
Heart of Los Angeles Youth Inc. is one of the premier community centers providing underserved youth in the MacArthur Park/Rampart District with high quality afterschool programs in academics, arts, athletics, and family resources. Grant funds will support program growth at a new Lafayette Park location with the capacity to nearly double the number of youth and families served each year.
Social Justice Learning Institute (SJLI) is dedicated to improving the education, health, and well-being of youth and communities of color. SJLI works with schools to offer its evidence-based Urban Scholars program, which supports and empowers young men of color to succeed in school and advocate for change in their communities. Grant funds will be used to support the expansion of the Urban Scholars to new sites across Los Angeles.
Special Needs Network addresses the needs of underserved youth and families of color in South Los Angeles struggling to raise a child with developmental disabilities. Grant funds will support expanded outreach, engagement, early intervention, and parent/caretaker training as it launches its new Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities (on the Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Hospital campus) and, through a partnership with the L.A. Unified School District, improve access to disability services for South L.A. children, students, and families of color.

Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles

COVID-19 Response Grant Recipient Remarks for Attribution

“EmpowHer Institute is committed to addressing the systemic barriers that often hinder BIPOC girls in marginalized communities from reaching their highest potential. The grant funding from the Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles will be used to triple our program-service sites and double the annual number of girls who participate in our education and economic justice programs across Los Angeles County.” – Dawn L. Brown, CEO, EmpowHer Institute

“Heart of Los Angeles (HOLA) is so grateful to the Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles for enabling us to offer youth academic support services, enrichment classes, and holistic support for students’ families. Through this grant, HOLA aims to expand its in-depth academic and whole-child support which are needed now more than ever to reach even more youth in our community. Despite the challenges raised by the pandemic, HOLA is committed to ensuring equitable recovery for Los Angeles youth so that our students can come back even stronger in the coming months.” – Tony Brown, CEO, Heart of Los Angeles

“The generous support of The Foundation enables the Bridge Builders Foundation to expand our Mentoring, Coaching and Leadership program and inspire, encourage and support young people to become more resilient, raise aspirations, and increase life trajectories. For many, this exposure is a ‘game changer.’” – James Breedlove, President, Bridge Builders Foundation

About The Jewish Community Foundation

Established in 1954, the Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles manages charitable assets of more than $1.4 billion entrusted to it by over 1,300 families and ranks among the 10 largest Los Angeles foundations. It partners with donors to shape meaningful philanthropic strategies, magnify the impact of their giving, and build enduring charitable legacies. In 2020, The Foundation and its donors distributed $116 million to 2,700 nonprofits with programs that span the range of philanthropic giving. Over the past 12 years, it has distributed more than $1 billion to thousands of nonprofits across a diverse spectrum.

Candy Pop × Cookie Pop Launches Initiative w/ Jim Beam in Miami

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@EatSnackPop and Jim Beam hosted a collaborative Happy Hour event with special libations, snacks and desserts featuring Snack Pop, America’s favorite cookie and candy coated popcorn in signature flavors Oreo Cookie Pop with real OREO pieces and Candy Pop with real M&Ms Minis candy pieces to celebrate their launch into Publix stores across Florida, starting with Miami. .

The event was hosted by @Lifestyle_Miami and featured DJ music by Ryan Kenney. Held in Miami at American Social in Brickell, overlooking the intercoastal waterway, on August 5th, 2021. Guests such as The Snaxpert, Miami food bloggers like Miami Food Porn and Brady Ervin, industry VIPs, and media attended the two-hour fete highlighting the two popular popcorn flavors, with specialty cocktail creations and food items created by American Social in partnership with Jim Beam’s mixology team incorporating the popcorn.

As part of the brand’s ongoing “Snackgiving” initiative, a portion of proceeds from all sales of Snack Pop varieties also benefit the Ryan Seacrest Foundation.

Speciality Menu Items at the happy hour included:

Sweet & Spicy Bacon (Thick cut bacon, cayenne Caramel, Topped with Candy Pop M&Ms Minis)
Cookies & Cream Bread Pudding (Featuring Oreo Cookie Pop, Vanilla Bean Fondant and Whipped Cream)
Plus: Hummus Platters, Chipotle Ribs, Tuna Poke Nachos and Goat Cheese Croquettes

Specialty Cocktail Items at the happy hour included:

Cookies & Cream Iced Coffee (Jim Beam White, Kahlua, Espresso, Oreo Cookie Milk, Whipped Cream and Cookie Pop with OREO)
M&Ms Popcorn Old Fashioned (Jim Beam Black, Chocolate Butters, Popcon syrup, Candy Pop M&Ms Minis)
Frozen Orange Creamsicle (Jim Beam Orange, Coco Lopez, Orange Juice, Pineapple Juice, Whipped Cream)
Jim Beam Highball (Jim Beam Orange, Q Soda, JB Black, JB White)

The Publix celebratory launch events with Jim Beam and Snack Pop will continue next in Tampa and then Orlando at American Social in both respective cities on August 12th and 19th.

Snack Pop, the quickly growing popcorn brand, which first launched nationwide in 2018 and is available in retailers across the country, continues to introduce flavor expansions each season, is both low calorie and features Non GMO corn, continues to gain notoriety as the favorite popcorn of Hollywood, with fans such as Ryan Seacrest, Cardi B, Lil Yachty, Jordan Kimbell, Dane Cook, Sean Penn, Ashley Greene, Lance Bass, Joey King, Kate Bosworth, Robert De Niro, Anne Heche, Jerry O’Connell, David Arquette, Peter Facinelli, Alexander Ludwig, Wilson Cruz, and much much more.

World Red Eye Photographed the event.

The Growth of Blockchain

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Blockchain Companies hit $30.4B in Total Funding, a 44% Increase in a Year

The increasing number of organizations accepting cryptocurrency and the growing interest in blockchain technology continue driving the entire sector’s impressive growth. However, recent years have also witnessed a surge in the number of venture capitalists pouring money into blockchain companies.

According to data presented by BlockArabia.com, blockchain companies raised $30.4bn in total funding, a massive 44% increase in a year.

Investment Activity Soared by 515% YTD

By allowing digital information to be distributed but not copied, blockchain technology created the groundwork for the new type of internet. Although initially invented for the cryptocurrency Bitcoin, by improving online security and streamlining fundraising and payment options, blockchain technology was adopted by many companies across different industries.

The Crunchbase data showed 2018 was a record year for investment activity in the blockchain market, with companies raising around $10.7bn in funding rounds that year. However, the next two years brought a significant slowdown in venture capital funding.

In 2019, blockchain companies raised $4.3bn, with the cumulative funding amount rising to $20bn that year. However, statistics show 2020 brought even less fresh capital, with companies raising only $2.4bn.

After two challenging years for blockchain companies looking to attract investments and expand their business, investors flocked to this sector in 2021. In the first quarter, startups focusing on blockchain technology raised around $2.9bn, more than in all of 2020. The strong investment activity continued in the second quarter of the year, with companies raising another $4.1bn.

The Crunchbase data showed blockchain startups raised around $8bn YTD, a staggering 515% increase compared to a year ago period, and 20% more than in 2019 and 2020 combined.

US Blockchain Startups Raised $12.5B, more than European and Asian Companies Combined

Statistics show that US blockchain companies lead in the total value of investments, with $12.5bn in funding rounds so far. European companies hit $6.1B in total funding, half the value of their US peers, ranking as the second-leading region globally. Asian blockchain companies follow with $5.4B, respectively.

Analyzed by type of funding, initial coin offering ranked as the most popular way to raise fresh capital. Statistics show blockchain companies have raised $9.3bn through ICOs so far, more than any other funding type.

Series A funding rounds have brought in around $3.8bn so far. Series B and Series C funding rounds follow, with $2.6bn and $2.4bn, respectively.

The full story can be read HERE.

Celebrate National Book Lovers Day in Tennessee

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Celebrate National Book Lovers Day with These 15 Tennessee Must Reads

Today marks National Book Lovers Day, a day to celebrate reading. Find your favorite reading nook and cozy up with these unforgettable stories about Tennessee.

Fly Girls: How Five Daring Women Defied All Odds and Made Aviation History by Keith O’Brien

Beechcraft Heritage Museum in Tullahoma has the complete collection of the accomplished Aviatrix, Louise Thadden, including her pilot’s license signed by Orville Wright and original racing trophies.

The Girls of Atomic City: The Untold Story of the Women Who Helped Win World War II by Denise Kiernan

Manhattan Project National Historical Park in Oak Ridge tells the story of the Secret City, known for its role in developing the technology that ended World War II. Learn about the fascinating history, and past and modern scientific achievements.

Respect Yourself: Stax Records & The Soul Explosion by Robert Gordon

Stax Museum of American Soul Music in Memphis tells the legacy of one of the most popular soul music record labels of all time that spans more than half a century through interactive exhibits and galleries.

The Last Train to Memphis: The Rise of Elvis Presley by Peter Guralnick

Elvis Presley’s Graceland in Memphis takes fans on an unforgettable journey through the revolutionary life and legacy of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.

Tina Turner: My Love Story by Tina Turner

West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center in Brownsville houses the one-room schoolhouse Tina Turner once attended. The Tina Turner Museum includes memorabilia and costumes and lets fans explore what life was like for the icon.

Roots: The Saga of an American Family by Alex Haley

The Alex Haley Museum and Interpretive Center in Henning is a restored home on the National Register of Historic Places features Haley’s work, with childhood memorabilia and references to the people who inspired his characters in Roots.

March by John Lewis, Andrew Aydin and Nate Powell

Civil Rights Room in the Nashville Public Library features oral histories, firsthand photographs and provides a current voice for open dialogue and discovery. Witness Walls is public artwork inspired by the events and people who made history in Nashville during the Civil Rights Movement.

The Widow of the South by Robert Hicks

Carnton in Franklin. The book tells the brave story of Carrie McGavock, whose home became a field hospital as the Battle of Franklin in 1864 raged across fields.

Sgt. York: His Life, Legend & Legacy by John Perry

Sgt. Alvin C. York State Historic Park in Pall Mall includes a visitor center modeled after York’s general store, his home, a grist mill, York Bible School and York Farm.

Historic Knoxville: The Curious Visitor’s Guide to its Stories and Places by Jack Neely.

Stop by Visit Knoxville at WDVX to pick up a guide, which encompasses old brick buildings of Knoxville’s core, Market Square, historic neighborhoods, parks and cemeteries, as well as suggested literary walks.

The Last Night on the Titanic by Veronica Hinke

Titanic Museum Attraction in Pigeon Forge. Discover stories of passengers and crew who sailed the Titanic as tour guides and interactive galleries bring them to life.

Dolly Parton, Songteller: My Life in Lyrics by Dolly Parton and Robert K. Oermann

Dolly Parton Statue in Sevierville is a tribute to the legend in her hometown. Explore family fun at the Chasing Rainbows Museum at Dollywood in Pigeon Forge. In Nashville, learn the stories of icons with exhibits and programs at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Then, grab cocktails under a pink umbrella next to a Dolly Parton statue made from pink chicken wire at the rooftop bar White Limozeen at the Graduate Hotel.

Country Music: An Illustrated History by Dayton Duncan based on Country Music: A Film by Ken Burns

The Birthplace of Country Music Museum in Bristol tells the story of the 1927 Bristol Sessions recordings and the rich musical heritage of artists like the Carter Family. Learn stories like theirs as you walk-in the footsteps of legends and discover songwriters along the Tennessee Music Pathways statewide.

Bluff City: The Secret Life of Photographer Ernest Withers by Preston Lauterbach

The Withers Collection Museum & Gallery, Dr. Withers’ last working studio on 333 Beale Street, houses 7,000 square feet of history, powerful images of key figures in the Civil Rights Movement, music, sports and African American life in Memphis.

Old Glory, From Salem to Nashville: The Life and Times of Patriot Captain William Driver

Historic Mansker’s Station in Goodlettsville is nationally recognized as a top living history site. Learn about the life of Captain Driver and his impact in Nashville and Middle Tennessee. The Bowen Plantation House and Kasper Mansker’s log station serve as a backdrop for daily presentations and special events.

Tennessee is the home of the blues, bluegrass, country, gospel, soul, rockabilly, and rock ‘n’ roll— delivering an unparalleled experience of beauty, history, and family adventure, infused with music, that creates a vacation that is the Soundtrack of America. Made in Tennessee. Explore more at their website and join other Tennessee travelers by following TNVacation on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram and YouTube, and Snapchat.

Comedy InvAsian 2.0

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After a turbulent year of lows and highs for Asian-Americans and the AAPI community around the world, and on the heels of this year’s past AAPI Heritage month in May, executive producers Koji Steven Sakai (Liittle Nalu Pictures), Victor Elizalde (Viva Pictures) and Quentin Lee (Margin Films) felt empowered to team back up for Season 2 of Comedy InvAsian spotlighting a fresh cast of Pan-Asian/AAPI standup comedians. Please see the exclusive announcement in The Diaspora Times HERE.

Each episode will feature 30-minute sets from the breakout comedians. Four live shows will be taped on August 28th and 29th at the Japanese American National Museum. Tickets will go on sale HERE.

Comedy InvAsian 2.0 will feature up and coming comedians; queer HIV+ adovcate Korean-American comedian Aidan Park, Indian-American Vinayak Pal, Thai-American Eli Nicolas, former Chinese beauty queen Jiaoying Summers, Lin Sun of Cambodian descent juggling comedy and mommy duties, Vietnamese-American Rosie Tran by way of Louisiana, and veteran comedian turned skate coach George Wang Jr., and half-Indian/Pakistani-American Nishy XL.

Produced by Little Nalu Pictures with distribution by Viva Pictures Distribution LLC, Season 1 of Comedy InvAsian had its world premiere on Hulu as an exclusive in 2018. Season 2 sees Quentin Lee and Koji Steven Sakai producing through Sakai’s Little Nalu Pictures.

“Global audiences are demanding diversity and Comedy InvAsian is proving to be one of those outlets without compromising quality”, said Victor Elizalde, President of Viva Pictures, as well as producer and distributor of Entre Nos, the leading LatinX standup comedy show on HBO currently in its 5th season.

Comedy InvAsian 2.0 will feature original music created by The Slants, the legendary all Asian-American dance rock band who took on the supreme court and won the right to their name in a landmark case. The Slants’ founder Simon Tam and Quentin Lee are developing a scripted limited series about the band’s battle against the US Government to trademark their name.

Created by Koji Steven Sakai and directed by Quentin Lee, Comedy InvAsian 2.0 features the nations’ top and unique Asian-American comedians spotlighted with a 30-minute set each.

About Little Nalu Pictures

Writer/Producer Koji Steven Sakai is the founder of Little Nalu Pictures LLC. He has written seven feature films that have been produced, including, most recently, The Commando, a feature film starring Michael Jai White and Mickey Rourke which is being distributed by Paramount in the Fall of 2021. He also produced five feature films; a one-hour comedy special that originally premiered on Netflix, Comedy InvAsian, a television series featuring the nation’s top Asian American comedians, which premiered on Hulu and will be shooting a second season this summer; and Brash Girls Club, a limited comedy series that premiered on Tubi TV.

Diplo Announces Four-Day Cabo Experience

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Grammy-winning electronic producer and Mad Decent boss Diplo has announced details for the debut of Diplo’s Higher Ground Cabo Weekender in partnership with leading travel experience company Pollen Presents. With headline performances taking place at The Me by Melia Resorts and Hotel from Feb 17-21, 2022, the event will unite lovers of deeper shades of dance music from all over the world for a four-day experience showcasing the Higher Ground label in an intimate and entirely new format.

Attendees will be immersed in pool and boat parties, beach activities, club nights, morning yoga, outdoor excursions, and more including performances from a Diplo curated lineup gathering his friends, collaborators, and Higher Ground artists.

The experience will include multiple headline performances by Diplo himself at The Me. Additional performances soundtracking the four-day event will include Australian-born house star Sonny Fodera, silky UK house icons Gorgon City, British house music DJ and producer Duke Dumont, Manchester production duo Solardo, legendary genre-crossing hitmaker Paul Woolford, beloved modern house phenom VNSSA, rising star John Summit, tech house producer GW Harrison, beloved party starter J.Phlip, Los Angeles house artist J. Worra, London based house and techno duo MANT, innovative genre-bending producer Melé, and more to be announced.

Over the past 15 years, Diplo has become known as one of the world’s most coveted producers and performers, effortlessly skipping between house and techno, hip-hop, trap, country, ambient and more. His production accolades include keystone work with Justin Bieber, Skrillex, Sia, Madonna, M.I.A and countless others. Beyond his founding membership of Major Lazer, he is also a member of the super-groups Jack Ü alongside Skrillex and LSD with Sia and Labrinth, along with his Silk City project with Mark Ronson.

Higher Ground sees Diplo gather his devout fan base around authentic tones of house and techno. In its short tenure, the label has already seen premiere releases from the likes of Aluna, Sonny Fodera, Walker & Royce, VNSSA, Wax Motif, Wilkinson, MK, and Andhim. Longtime friend of Diplo and Crosstown Rebels boss Damian Lazarus blessed the imprint in 2020 as the North American home for his ‘Flourishes’ LP and his collaborative single with Diplo and Jungle.

Travel experiences for Diplo’s Higher Ground Cabo will include a four day, four night stay at The Me and a variety of additional 4* and 5* hotel options, along with access to all parties, performances, and outdoor activities. Monthly payment plans are available in the lead up to the event with a $30 deposit and at no additional interest. Pollen Presents also offers a COVID-19 Money Back Guarantee making the event 100% refundable if it is cancelled or rescheduled due to COVID-19.

More information on rooms and prices can be found on the Pollen Presents website.

About Pollen

Pollen is a leading travel company building, curating, and delivering the best experiences for members all over the world. Members enjoy these experiences together with the people they love, creating stronger relationships and unforgettable memories. Members immerse themselves in multi-day itineraries that combine live entertainment, parties, and relaxation time in more than 50 popular destinations. Members can discover and book these experiences exclusively on pollen.co and the Pollen app. Pollen has already launched bespoke mini-breaks with mega stars like J Balvin, Marshawn Lynch and Ozuna.

Phase 1 Artist List (A – Z)

Diplo

Duke Dumont

Gorgon City

GW Harrison

J.Phlip

J. Worra

John Summit

MANT

Melé

Paul Woolford

Solardo

Sonny Fodera

VNSSA