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Has Colossal Biosciences’ Gestated Startup Breaking Found the Solution to Our Planet’s Plastic Crisis?

Has Colossal Biosciences’ Gestated Startup Breaking Found the Solution to Our Planet’s Plastic Crisis?

By Article Editor on

Breaking, the plastic degradation startup gestated at Colossal Biosciences, has recently launched a solution for our planet’s overwhelming plastic problem, and it’s just in time for the Earth Day 2024 theme, “Planet vs. Plastic.” This initiative aims to unite the global community with the goal of a 60% reduction in plastic production by 2040. With 6.3 billion tons of plastic waste currently on the planet, Earth Day recognizes the importance of investing in innovative technology to build a plastic-free world, and Breaking’s breakthrough discovery, the plastic-eating microbe known as X-32, is just that.

Miraculously discovered while Sukanya Punthambaker, Breaking’s co-founder and CEO, and Vaskar Gnyawali, Breaking’s chief scientific officer, were working in association with Colossal Biosciences at Harvard’s Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, X-32 can degrade polyolefins, polyesters, and polyamides in as little as 22 months, leaving behind only carbon dioxide, water, and biomass. 

“We started this journey and we stumbled upon very interesting and very, very cool breakthroughs and discoveries,” Punthambaker said to the Boston Business Journal. “We decided that the technology should get out of the lab in order for it to have a real-world, big impact.”

Breaking Down Plastic Pollution

With 400 million tons of plastic waste produced each year, plastic pollution persists worldwide, causing detrimental effects on our ecosystems and health. A 2021 study from the journal Science found that 1,557 wildlife species globally have ingested plastic litter, a common cause of intestinal blockage and death. While humans aren’t known to eat plastic wittingly, we’re perhaps no better off, as we ingest an estimated average of 5 grams of microplastics per week — equivalent to the weight of a credit card.

Considering plastics are a known byproduct of the petrochemical industry, it should come as no surprise that they can be incredibly damaging to public health. BPA — found in a variety of everyday plastic items like water bottles, menstrual products, toys, and dinnerware — is a carcinogenic chemical that can be absorbed by fat tissue and increase one’s risks to a list of ailments, from endocrine disruption to breast and prostate cancer, and metabolic diseases.

While many look to recycling as a solution to our current plastic crisis, the truth is that less than 10% of all plastic ever produced has been recycled, largely because the process isn’t considered economically viable. This has resulted in millions of tons of plastic waste being exported to Asian countries for recycling, where 80% of it enters the waterways and reaches our oceans.

Incineration — plastic’s other alternative to the landfill — is even worse than recycling, releasing a swarm of harmful pollutants and creating troublesome microplastics in the process. Given its chemical makeup, burning plastic is considered dirtier than burning oil and coal and releases over 2 tons of carbon dioxide per ton incinerated.

Plastic’s undeniable impact on our planet has inspired this year’s Earth Day theme, which calls for a massive decline in plastic production driven by an end to fast fashion and an investment into innovative technology that fosters a plastic-free future. With the discovery of X-32, the Colossal Biosciences-incubated startup may have just the innovative technology Earth Day fans seek. 

“We could not be more thrilled to launch Breaking from stealth from Colossal,” said Breaking co-founder and Colossal Biosciences CEO Ben Lamm in a press release. “The technologies co-developed by the Wyss Institute provide limitless applications to address our planet’s pervasive plastic contamination challenges. Part of our core mission of ecosystem restoration at Colossal can only be achieved with the removal of plastic that plague our ecosystems and negatively impact biodiversity.”

Microbe X-32: Breaking Free From Plastic

The X-32 microbe is a newly discovered microorganism that carries an enzyme enabling it to break down polyolefins, polyesters, and polyamides in its natural state. In lab tests, X-32 has been shown to degrade up to 90% of polyesters and polyolefins in less than 22 months with no pretreatment, sorting, cleaning, or decontamination requirements. By releasing carbon dioxide, water, and biomass as a byproduct, the microbe is significantly cleaner than other alternatives to plastic disposal.

“I’ve spent my career in synthetic biology and protein engineering with the hope of developing something this transformational,” said Punthambaker in a press release. “In the future, our solution will be able to work across terrestrial and marine environments to break down today’s greatest threat to humankind/our existence: the plastic that is choking our world.”

Breaking is currently working on identifying the enzyme behind X-32’s plastic-eating appetite and using synthetic biology to make this enzyme — and X-32 along with it —- faster, more effective, and more efficient, priming the microorganism for widespread distribution. X-32 is expected to have applications across a variety of industries, from improved composting and plastic recycling to ocean and brownfield cleanup, wastewater treatment, and soil decontamination.

“The idea is: Apply this to areas where there can be a commercially viable market,” Kent Wakeford, Breaking’s executive chairman and co-founder, told the Boston Business Journal.

By breaking down polyesters — considered one of the biggest polluters in the fast fashion industry — X-32 is also aiding Earth Day’s 2024 mission to end the nasty impacts of fast fashion. Up to 40% of the fashion industry’s carbon emissions come from producing synthetic fabrics like polyester and washing these fabrics accounts for 35% of all microplastics in the ocean — the largest single source of all ocean microplastic. 

Since synthetic fabrics like polyester take up to 200 years to naturally decompose, X-32, with its ability to almost fully degrade polyester in less than 22 months, presents the world with the ability to break free from the trashed fashions of last season. 

A Breaking Solution for a Plastic-Wrapped Planet

As this year’s Earth Day urges us to commit to a plastic-free future, Breaking and X-32 are bringing us one step closer to that goal. With the company actively working to improve the capabilities of X-32, there’s no telling what lies ahead in terms of this outstanding discovery’s impacts. 

Take it from Jim Kim, Breaking’s lead investor and general partner of Builders VC, who said in a press release, “Breaking is solving one of the biggest problems on our planet. They are using the natural world as inspiration and layering on cutting edge technology to transform how we break down plastics. This is going to be one of the biggest breakthroughs of the decade and I’m excited to be part of it.”

Navigating Cultural Diversity: The Role of Corporate Event Planners as Cultural Ambassadors

Navigating Cultural Diversity: The Role of Corporate Event Planners as Cultural Ambassadors

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In an increasingly globalized business world, corporate event planners are finding themselves in a unique position. They’re not just organizers but cultural ambassadors tasked with navigating the complex landscape of diverse cultural expectations in global corporate events. This shift reshapes how events are conceptualized, planned, and executed, with far-reaching implications for the industry.

The Cultural Tightrope

Corporate event planners today must tread a delicate line. They must create universally appealing experiences while respecting and celebrating cultural differences. This challenge requires a deep understanding of global cultures, customs, and sensitivities.

Jessica Boskoff, Founder and CEO of 23 Layers, a New York-based corporate event planning company, notes, “Every event is an opportunity to bridge cultural gaps and foster understanding. It’s about creating an environment where everyone feels valued and included.”

Critical Considerations for Culturally Inclusive Events

1. Diverse Representation

Ensuring diverse representation in all aspects of the event, from speakers to entertainment, is crucial. This approach provides varied perspectives and helps attendees from different backgrounds feel represented and included.

2. Dietary Considerations

Food is a central element of many cultures. Corporate event planners must navigate a complex web of dietary restrictions and preferences, from religious requirements to personal choices. Offering a variety of options that cater to different nutritional needs is essential.

3. Communication Styles

Understanding different communication styles is vital. What’s considered polite in one culture might be offensive in another. Event planners must know these nuances to facilitate smooth interactions among attendees.

4. Cultural Sensitivities

Being mindful of cultural sensitivities in everything from decor to scheduling is crucial. For instance, awareness of religious holidays or cultural taboos can prevent unintentional offense.

Technology as a Cultural Bridge

Technology is crucial in helping corporate event planners navigate cultural differences in the digital age. Real-time translation services, for example, can help break down language barriers, allowing for more inclusive and engaging events.

The Importance of Local Partnerships

Many corporate event planners are finding success by partnering with local organizations and cultural experts. These partnerships provide invaluable insights into local customs and expectations, helping to create more authentic and respectful events.

23 Layers, for instance, often collaborates with local cultural organizations when planning events in different countries. This approach ensures that their events are logistically sound, culturally appropriate, and enriching.

The Future of Culturally Inclusive Events

As businesses expand globally, the demand for culturally inclusive events will likely grow. Corporate event planners who can successfully navigate this complex landscape will be in high demand.

“The future of event planning is inherently multicultural,” says a spokesperson from a leading industry association. “Planners who can seamlessly blend different cultural elements while maintaining the event’s core objectives will lead the industry forward.”

Challenges and Opportunities

While navigating cultural diversity presents challenges, it also offers tremendous opportunities for innovation and creativity in event planning. Corporate event planners can create more prosperous, engaging experiences that resonate with a global audience by embracing diversity.

However, this approach requires continuous learning and adaptation. Staying informed about global cultural trends, being open to feedback, and maintaining a flexible approach are critical to success in this evolving landscape.

Conclusion

As the business world becomes increasingly interconnected, the role of corporate event planners as cultural ambassadors will only grow in importance. By embracing this role, planners can create events that meet business objectives and foster greater understanding and connection across cultures.

Companies like 23 Layers are at the forefront of this trend, demonstrating how cultural sensitivity and inclusivity can seamlessly integrate into corporate events. As the industry continues to evolve, the ability to navigate cultural diversity will likely become a defining skill for successful corporate event planners.

In this new era of global business, culturally inclusive event planning is not just a nice-to-have—it’s a necessity. The corporate event planners who can master this art will shape the industry’s future, one culturally diverse event at a time.

Mastering Business Law in Los Angeles: Why Lerner & Weiss is Your Go-To Firm

Mastering Business Law in Los Angeles: Why Lerner & Weiss is Your Go-To Firm

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As experts in Los Angeles business law, the team at Lerner and Weiss provides an impeccable quality of service that stands out among its competitors.

It is crucial to find a trustworthy lawyer to aid throughout the formation of your company, drafting of contracts, emergence of disputes, dissolution of a business, and everything in between.

Choosing an expert business lawyer can be an incredibly daunting task. Luckily, some law firms rise above as a clear choice with a team of leaders in their field. One such firm is Woodland Hills-based Lerner and Weiss, who have been providing exemplary counsel to businesses, making them an authority on business law in Los Angeles. 

Here’s a closer look at what makes Lerner and Weiss the go-to firm for businesses throughout Los Angeles:

Expertise:

With over 70 years of combined experience in Los Angeles business law, Lerner and Weiss offer an array of expertise in all business matters, from the forming and dissolving of a company to reviewing and negotiating contracts and handling partnership disputes. 

Partners Leonard Lerner and Michael Weiss are exceptionally masterful business lawyers. Founding partner Leonard Lerner has been practicing law since 1980 and is highly regarded for his ability to guide clients through the purchase, formation, sale, and dissolution of a company. Michael Weiss has aided startups and Fortune 100 companies alike with his honed negotiating skills and refined review of contracts. 

Both Leonard Lerner and Michael Weiss are deft litigators with thousands of hours of courtroom experience leading to countless legal victories. In addition to their grasp of business law in Los Angeles, the team at Lerner and Weiss has extensive knowledge and expertise in employment law, real estate law, and insurance law. This is particularly beneficial to clients as many business concerns involve an intersection between multiple of these fields.

Client-Centered Approach:

While Los Angeles holds the status as the city with the second most lawyers per capita in America (only behind New York City) it is unfortunately difficult to find a business lawyer with consistent accessibility, let alone one with a unique strategy. 

At Lerner and Weiss, the team takes the time to understand your business and treats you like a partner in their approach to representation. Lerner and Weiss maintain an open line of communication with each client and craft a strategy that aids in furthering business goals. Lerner and Weiss always keep you updated throughout the entire legal process so that you can focus on running your business.

Emphasis of Results:

Your business is driven by results, so why shouldn’t your lawyer be? The team at Lerner and Weiss is known for delivering positive outcomes that further your business’s success. Unlike many lawyers, Lerner and Weiss diligently prepare for each case and never take on cases that they cannot win.

Lerner and Weiss continue to provide favorable results for their clients, leading to a number of glowing testimonials. 

“As a management company that is and has been responsible for full scale operations of more than 10 businesses across multiple states and industries, we have worked with multiple attorneys at Lerner and Weiss for half a decade.” states client Jamie Shea in a five-star Google review. “Having Lener and Weiss looking out for our best interests has given us incredible peace of mind and confidence over these years. Whether seeking advice on a one-off issue or needing documents drawn up and executed, we have always been made to feel as though our needs are a top priority and the responses and deliverables have been flawless. Specifically, Len Lerner and Michael Weiss have been incredible to work with, as have their support teams. Without hesitation, I would recommend Lerner & Weiss and intend to continue our professional relationship as our business continues to grow.”

With such outstanding results and endorsements, Lerner and Weiss’ approach to Los Angeles business law is clearly working.

Schedule a Consultation Today!

In a city with as many business laws as Los Angeles, never settle for an inexperienced lawyer. Contact Lerner and Weiss to expertly counsel you through your every business concern. With offices in Woodland Hills and San Diego, Lerner and Weiss offers its services to those in Ventura County, Orange County, San Diego County, and the Los Angeles greater area. 

For a consultation, visit Lerner and Weiss’ website or call 818-986-0893 for the Los Angeles office and 619-577-4871 for the San Diego office.

Diego Ávalos, Álex Pina, and the Next Chapter of Netflix’s Success Story

Diego Ávalos, Álex Pina, and the Next Chapter of Netflix’s Success Story

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Could Netflix get any better? Diego Ávalos thinks so — and is working hard to make it so. The streaming service continues to grow as a global entertainment provider, with 83 million of its 247.2 subscribers based in the Europe, Middle East, and Africa region. In recognition of the need for localized content that appeals to more diverse viewership, Netflix has doubled down on its commitment to original programming, particularly in Spanish. Spearheaded by Diego Ávalos, Netflix vice president of content for Spain, Portugal, and the Nordics, the company has expanded its Spanish-language offerings while increasing global appeal. From enhanced local production facilities to increased investment in Spanish talent, Netflix and Ávalos, along with creatives like Álex Pina, are poised to take streaming on demand to a new level.

The California-based streaming service has achieved new heights recently as it continues to expand its services across the globe. In fact, EMEA subscriber counts surpassed that of the U.S. and Canada combined in late 2022, demonstrating significant growth throughout Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. While part of this growth was fueled by the streaming service’s expansion during the COVID-19 pandemic, numbers remain high as users have come to rely on Netflix as a primary source of entertainment.

With international audiences within its sights, Netflix has responded by expanding its assortment of local programming and originals as it looks to cater to regionalized audiences while also addressing global appeal. The company has made major investments, particularly in Spain, where its production hub has helped accelerate output.

Meet Diego Ávalos

Much of this growth can be attributed to the leadership of Diego Ávalos, Netflix’s vice president of Originals for Spain, Portugal, and the Nordics. Throughout his tenure with the company, he’s advocated for non-English-language content that exemplifies diversity while appealing to cultures and viewers outside regional perspectives. He’s long believed in the strength of Spanish-language storytelling and the power of creators to resonate with people from all walks of life.

“I’ve been here since the Netflix launch in Spain. This industry is a bridge between Europe and Latin America — there’s a strong cultural connection, and it’s a unique position from a storytelling and potential audience perspective,” Ávalos said in a recent interview with Deadline. This connection has evidenced itself through a robust portfolio of programming over the years that has proven global appeal, with the most-watched Spanish-language show on the service, La Casa de Papel (Money Heist), ranking among Netflix’s top series of all time.

What made Money Heist so special was its ability to cross-cultural boundaries due to creator and writer Álex Pina’s unique storytelling. Originally appearing on Spanish television to a mediocre reception, Diego Ávalos and Netflix realized the potential in the series and brought it onto the service as a co-production, supporting its transition to streaming and green lighting additional seasons to enable Pina to fully tell his story. The result was a global phenomenon, making it the most watched non-English-language programming on the service at the time.

Understanding the success of the show was primarily due to Pina’s distinctive talent, Ávalos looked to secure a future for the producer with Netflix for the long term. The deal became the first between the company and a non-English-language content creator, ensuring that Pina would continue to have what he needed to thrive creatively and develop additional quality Spanish-language content. The collaboration has already produced results, with development in the works on a Money Heist spinoff titled Berlin, which is said to be set for release in December 2023.

Álex Pina’s Versatility

While the Money Heist franchise continues to be a global hit, including the production of a Korean-language version of the series, Pina has demonstrated his skill in other creative universes. He’s written and produced a quite different series, Sky Rojo, a high paced thriller that plays with the genre and tells the story of three prostitutes looking to escape their pasts. He also created and wrote the show White Lines, a British Spanish thriller that proved his ability to produce cross-cultural content that appeals to regional and general audiences alike.

With the groundwork for success clearly laid out, Diego Ávalos and Netflix extended their exclusivity deal with Pina in 2022. In a show of diverse genre creation and a wealth of inspired, original ideas, Pina has already begun work on a new, yet untitled series. Based on true events that occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic in Spain, the story will center on a group of rich Spaniards who invest in elaborate and luxurious bunkers to ride out the world crisis.

Netflix’s Commitment to Localized Content

Netflix’s commitment to creators like Álex Pina is further evidence of its goal of creating content that resonates across cultures and languages. Under the leadership of Ávalos, Netflix more than doubled the production of Spanish-language content in 2022. This includes content set locally in Spain, as well as branching out with titles such as Rabo de Peixe, which took place in Portugal.

“Our main goal is to satisfy the hunger our local audience has, but people can also discover these stories, no matter where they are in the world, in any language,” said Ávalos. “A Spanish story being discovered and being relevant to millions of people around the world is truly satisfying.”

This pursuit of local content has helped Netflix continue to connect with global audiences in new ways. Starting as a predominantly English-language service, the streaming company soon realized that localization and viewer relationships needed more than subtitles or dubbing. Supporting the creation of storytelling in other languages has helped Netflix continue to grow its audiences while also exposing viewers to new content representing different cultures and perspectives.

As Netflix grows its global footprint, relatable storytelling for Spanish and Latin American audiences continues to be an area of focus and importance.

Netflix’s Investment in Spain

To support this increase, Netflix established a production hub in Tres Cantos, Madrid, in 2019, the operations for which are overseen by Diego Ávalos. He’s also credited with helping to consolidate not only the hub’s day-to-day activities, but also the service’s entire Spanish-language strategy. Today, the site supports 10 sound stages as well as post-production, wardrobe, and costuming facilities to provide for local content development. “Hollywood should be jealous of what Spain is doing, and our facilities allow for this,” said Ávalos.

Part of this ability for growth is attributed to the country’s focus and the government support to make Spain a global audiovisual hub. From a robust talent pool to support from the country’s growing audiovisual infrastructure, Spain has made itself a prime filming and production location. “The talent in front of and, of course, behind the camera is one of the great competitive values of production in Spain,” elaborated Ávalos.

Diego Ávalos, Álex Pina, and Netflix remain committed to releasing Spanish-language content that takes advantage of the many benefits offered by producing entertainment in Spain. “Spain is one of the most interesting sets in the world, not only because of its scenic beauty or its geographical richness, but also because of the diversity of its heritage and its cultural value,” said Ávalos. This, along with the bevy of talent that the company has secured, is sure to provide exciting possibilities and new projects moving forward. Audiences can continue to expect high-quality entertainment that represents local cultures and storytelling outlooks that can resonate with them as people, no matter what language they speak or what country they live in.

Dartmouth Legends: Assessing the Careers of Dennis Durkin, Reggie Williams and Jay Fielder

Dartmouth Legends: Assessing the Careers of Dennis Durkin, Reggie Williams and Jay Fielder

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Football at Dartmouth goes back almost as long as the history of the school. Dartmouth won its first intercollegiate game in 1881. Today, Dartmouth Big Green Football competes in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), carrying a tradition of producing outstanding college football players. Reggie Williams, Dennis Durkin, Jay Fiedler, Frank “the Iron Major” Cavanaugh, helped lead Dartmouth Big Green teams into championships and college football history. 

A Legend – Reggie Williams

Reggie Williams was a three-time All-Ivy League first team selection while playing for Dartmouth. He had the prestigious accomplishment of being named to the All-New England, All-East, and All-Ivy teams in 1974 and 1975, and being selected for the American Football Coaches Association All-America Team in 1975. 

Williams was drafted in the third round by the Cincinnati Bengals in 1976. A 1976 All-Rookie Team selection, he played for the Bengals for 14 seasons, including two Super Bowl appearances, setting a franchise record with 16 interceptions and 23 fumble recoveries.  

He was selected as the NFL’s Byron (Whizzer) White Award for Humanitarian Service in 1985, named the NFL’s Man of the Year in 1986 and the 1987 Sports Illustrated Co-Sportsman of the Year. 

Dennis Durkin – Secret Offensive Weapon

Dennis Durkin earned a spot as a top football star at Dartmouth, going 13 for 13 on field goals in 1992. Scoreboard referred to Durkin as “the Green’s secret offensive weapon.”

Dennis Durkin led the team to some of the best kicking years in its history. Durkin became the third all-time leading scorer in Dartmouth history. He holds many other career and season records. Dennis Durkin’s reliable kicking skills helped to lead the team to Ivy League Championship wins for the Big Green in 1990, 1991, and 1992. 

He earned an MBA from Harvard and had a successful business career. He helped to grow the global digital entertainment businesses at Activision Blizzard and Microsoft,including serving as its Corporate Vice President, and the Chief Operating and Financial Officer of Microsoft’s Interactive Entertainment Business. He also earned a board position at On Running. 

Jay Fiedler – Standout Career

Jay Fiedler, born in Oceanside, N.Y., displayed obvious talent at Dartmouth, where he set school records with 58 touchdown passes, 6,684 passing yards, and an impressive total offense of 7,249 yards. He was named the 1992 Ivy League Player of the Year and was named Co-Offensive Player of the Game in the 1994 East-West Shrine Game. 

He played for the Philadelphia Eagles (1994-1995) and briefly for the Minnesota Vikings and Jacksonville Jaguars. His career with the Miami Dolphins began in 2000, when he replaced Dan Morino. He helped the Dolphins reach the NFL playoffs, led them to an AFC East title, with the team having 11–5 seasons in 2000 and 2001.   

A devastating shoulder injury while playing for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers led to Fiedler’s retirement in 2006. 

Frank Cavanaugh, Murray Bowden, Casey Cramer, Nick Lalos – True Winners

Frank “the Iron Major” Cavanaugh led Dartmouth to a 42-9-3 record from 1911 to1916. He was named to the Dartmouth Hall of Fame Coaches and Administrators. 

Murray Bowden was the co-captain and All-America rover back of Dartmouth’s undefeated Ivy League champion 1970 team. Dartmouth won the Lambert Trophy and won 17 of 18 games in 1969 and 1970.

Casey Cramer (2004), one of Dartmouth’s all-time leading receivers, All-America and All-Ivy tight end, played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Carolina Panthers and the Tennessee Titans.

Defensive end Niko Lalos (2020) joined the New York Giants after Dartmouth as an undrafted free agent. He played an impressive game against the Bengals, snagging an interception, leading to a 19-17 win. He recovered a Russell Wilson fumble, delivering a 17-12 win over the Seahawks. He signed with the New Orleans Saints for the second time in 2023. 

Dartmouth College encourages students to Explore. Engage. Excel. Many top football players, including Reggie Wilson and Dennis Durkin, followed this guidance, both on and off the field.  

Empathy Meets First Amendment Rights: Kent Krabill’s Approach to Law

Empathy Meets First Amendment Rights: Kent Krabill’s Approach to Law

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The intricate canvas of jurisprudence, strewn with countless threads of diverse legal disciplines, hosts a vibrant, radiant strand known as First Amendment rights. Amidst this kaleidoscope of legal colors, one prominent figure emerges, Kent Krabill, renowned for his profound expertise and unflagging dedication to safeguarding these crucial liberties. Adding a unique dimension to his approach, empathy surfaces as a key element, often overlooked in the legal field, which paves the way for a deeply human-oriented understanding of the law.

Kent Krabill’s First Amendment journey through the labyrinthine pathways of law is a profound testament to their unwavering commitment, intellectual tenacity, and meticulous scholarship. Over the course of his career, he discerned an intense passion for First Amendment rights, fostering it into an area of focus that now defines his practice. Kent’s impressive academic foundation, anchored in law, bolstered by commendations, and interlaced with numerous accolades, provides the bedrock for his remarkable career. His achievements in the field of law, punctuated by recognitions and endorsements, resonate with his mastery and resolute commitment to the principles that underpin our democratic society.

Unveiling the First Amendment: The Foundation of Freedom

Understanding First Amendment rights — the quintuple freedoms: speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition — is pivotal to appreciating the essence of a free society. These freedoms, though seemingly in perpetual equilibrium, often teeter on the edge of a razor, underlining the need for astute advocates like Kent Krabill. His advocacy is marked by a relentless drive to ensure these rights remain untrammeled. Each case he adopts becomes a testament to his legal acumen and robust advocacy, amplifying his resolute commitment to upholding the fundamental principles of democracy.

The concept of empathy within the law may appear paradoxical, given the popular notion of law as a field governed by austere logic and incontrovertible facts. However, the true grandeur of law is revealed in its interface with humanity, and it is in this intersection that empathy asserts its vital role. To Kent, empathy is not merely an emotional response; it’s an intentional and mindful act of understanding his client’s experiences and perspectives. This empathetic prism profoundly shapes his approach to law, enhancing his relationships with clients and infusing his case results with a deeply humanistic touch.

Beyond the Courtroom: The Significance of Empathy in Law

The intersection of First Amendment rights advocacy and empathy creates a unique blend in Kent’s legal practice. His empathetic approach breathes life into his advocacy, leading to a nuanced understanding of the societal implications of these rights. By espousing a client-centered approach, he manages to draw tangible connections between legal principles and the lived experiences of his clients. This approach underscores the intricate and far-reaching implications of First Amendment rights, shedding light on the profound influence these rights wield on an individual’s life.

In conclusion, the tapestry of Kent Krabill’s career is awash with vivid hues of committed First Amendment rights advocacy, underscored by the powerful influence of empathy. His work transcends the conventional definition of a career; it’s a calling that’s driven by a profound commitment to his clients and to the legal profession. Kent Krabill, a stalwart advocate of First Amendment rights, emerges as a beacon of empathy in the often rigid world of law. His practice embodies the hope of a future where the legal profession is informed not only by knowledge and expertise but also by a deep understanding of the human condition. Kent’s career thus stands as an exemplar of how empathy can transform legal practice, elevating it from a mere profession to a potent force for understanding, advocacy, and human connection.

Miki Agrawal Disrupts Hygiene Industries

Miki Agrawal Disrupts Hygiene Industries

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Miki Agrawal, an entrepreneur who has made a name for herself in various industries, is known for her work in creating companies that disrupt the norm and push boundaries. Her work in taboo industries is particularly noteworthy as she has brought innovative ideas and products to the market. One such example is TUSHY, a bidet company that is changing the way people think about bathroom hygiene. The idea for TUSHY came to entrepreneur Miki Agrawal after a visit to her family in India where she discovered that bidets were commonly used instead of toilet paper. She aimed to create a bidet that was affordable, easy to install, and stylish to encourage people to switch from toilet paper to bidets.

All About the TUSHY

TUSHY has disrupted the industry by making bidets accessible and stylish. In the past, bidets were seen as a luxury item that only the wealthy could afford, but TUSHY has created a bidet that is affordable and easy to install. The bidet can be installed in a few minutes without professional help, making it accessible to more people. The bidet also comes in different colors and designs to match people’s bathroom decor. This has made bidets more mainstream and changed people’s perception of them.

Sustainability is another area that TUSHY has focused on by creating a bidet that uses less water than traditional bidets and eliminates the need for toilet paper. This has helped to reduce waste and make bathroom hygiene more sustainable.

With TUSHY, Miki Agrawal has challenged the status quo and pushed boundaries by creating a company that fills a need and changes people’s perception of taboo industries.

Miki Agrawal On TUSHY’s Disruption

Miki Agrawal’s company TUSHY has disrupted the industry in a number of ways, and here are some examples:

  1. Affordable Bidet Attachments: TUSHY offers a line of affordable bidet attachments that can be easily installed on any toilet in just 10 minutes. Unlike traditional bidets that can cost thousands of dollars, TUSHY’s bidet attachments cost only a few hundred dollars, making them accessible to a wider audience. This has helped to break down the taboo surrounding bidets and encourage more people to try them out.
  2. Sustainability: TUSHY is committed to sustainability and reducing waste. The company’s bidet attachments use far less water than traditional bidets, and they also eliminate the need for toilet paper, which is a major contributor to deforestation. TUSHY also uses eco-friendly packaging and shipping materials, and the company has pledged to become carbon neutral by 2022.
  3. Disrupting the Toilet Paper Industry: TUSHY’s bidet attachments have the potential to disrupt the toilet paper industry by reducing demand for toilet paper. In addition to the environmental benefits, this could also save consumers money over the long term. TUSHY has even launched a “Stop Wiping. Start Washing.” campaign to encourage people to make the switch to bidets.
  4. Social Entrepreneurship: TUSHY has a strong commitment to social entrepreneurship and has partnered with a number of non-profit organizations to provide clean water and sanitation to communities in need. The company has pledged to donate a portion of its profits to these causes, and it has also launched a program to provide free bidet attachments to schools and non-profits.

Overall, Miki Agrawal and TUSHY have disrupted the bathroom industry by bringing bidets into the mainstream, promoting sustainability, and challenging the status quo when it comes to toilet paper. The company’s commitment to social entrepreneurship is also admirable and sets an example for other businesses to follow.

In addition to her industry disruption, Miki Agrawal is a sought-after public speaker. For more stories stories from the disrupt-her, check out the Miki Agrawal Medium site.

Jason Momoa is Eamon O’Rourke’s Favorite Hollywood Star

Jason Momoa is Eamon O’Rourke’s Favorite Hollywood Star

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Most moviegoers are familiar with actor Jason Momoa because of his dramatic onscreen presence. But director Eamon O’Rourke, who had the opportunity to work with Momoa in the 2016 film The Bad Batch, noted that it was the actor’s down-to-earth personality and compassion for other people that set him apart. With an all-star cast including Keanu Reeves, Jim Carrey, and Diego Luna, Momoa stood out by bringing the cast and crew together through fun and games. O’Rourke’s tales from the set simply reinforce this warm-hearted A-lister’s dynamic personality.

Noting that Jason Momoa is a wonderful person inside and out, both on and off the set, Eamon O’Rourke met Momoa while working as a production assistant for The Bad Batch. O’Rourke worked hard to bring the cast and crew together and to ensure everyone had what they needed during the first week of production. Initially, O’Rourke was a bit intimidated but was soon won over by Momoa’s warm personality.

“You cannot find a bigger honey pie in the world,” mentioned Eamon O’Rourke, “The cast was absolutely stacked. I was running background but helping out with first team with another [production assistant] who I worked with forever. I was mainly running background, but I was also helping, a few of the bigger actors were sort of under my care. And one of the people who I was really helping out with was Jason Momoa, who is the nicest guy in the whole world.”

With a strong presence that brings people together, O’Rourke was happy to have such a friendly personality to work with. Of Momoa, O’Rourke mentioned, “[He is] just this wonderful, wonderful, superwarm guy who has no sense of superiority. He’s part of the whole thing. Everyone is part of it too. It’s beautiful. Anyway, something that I have learned over the course of working on first team is that in the beginning, you’ve got to win the actors over in that first week. You don’t want to get too, too close, but you want them to like you. That can look a lot of different ways depending on the actors.”

O’Rourke was not at all surprised when Momoa invited him and several cast members over to his hotel room to hang out near the end of the first week of filming. “Jason Momoa was having some of the crew and people who were staying in that hotel to his room, [to] drink some beers [and] hang out,” O’Rourke stated in an interview. But he also noted Momoa’s kindness during filming as well. “Momoa is just such a nice guy who was great to me and took care of me over the course of that shoot,” he said. “It was a long shoot. It was a hard shoot. We were in the desert. I was his guy. I was his guy from that point on because I had never quit on him. I find it to be one of the most entertaining moments of my career as a [production assistant].”

For this reason, director Eamon O’Rourke isn’t at all surprised that Momoa continues to make headlines as a kind person. In 2020, Momoa made a special visit to a Pittsburgh children’s hospital, taking the time to pose for photos with children and their families and arm wrestle some of the patients, as reported by CTV News. Momoa has also spent time with kids through the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The Aquaman star later posted that meeting with children who were critically ill and working with the Foundation is something he has great plans for in the future, as noted in his Tweet: “My first @makeawishamerica I will do this for life.”

O’Rourke noted that Momoa is the type of celebrity Hollywood should strive to produce. In a world full of short sound bites, snappy attitudes, and greater-than-thou behaviors, Momoa’s kindness stands out as one of many reasons why the A-lister is so popular among colleagues and fans alike.

Nullification of Business Contracts

Nullification of Business Contracts

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Nullification of Business Contracts

Business contracts are legal documents that document the deal between both parties involved. When one party wants to nullify the contract, it must go through the proper channels for it to be recognized. When one party wants to nullify a contract, they have to show that, by law, there has been a breach of terms or an agreement from which both parties will benefit.

Understanding the contents of a contract is a critical step in determining if the terms are being followed. If the agreement’s words are not followed, then there is a high possibility that nullification can be made. When you find out that you have been in breach of a contract, you need to know if there is any legal support that you can use to prevent your claim from being rejected.

According to Raphael Avraham Sternberg, a legal advisor to people in business, nullifying a business contract involves checking if the business contract has been appropriately signed between all parties involved. Verify if any clauses that were not part of the original document have been added to the agreement. When one party feels they have been misled or lied to, it may be possible to nullify the contract.

If there is any misrepresentation, it will be possible to nullify the contract. A misrepresentation occurs when one party has stated false information in the agreement. Misrepresentations can lead to cases where one party loses its investment.

It is essential to understand the requirements of the contract. If the date for performance set out in the contract is not met, it can be grounds for nullifying a contract. Some contracts may contain terms that do not make sense or do not make the product any better. In this case, there is no need to follow through with the contract when one party has been misled into believing something that was untrue.

Threatening a person with something severe. For example, physically harm them or their family if they disagree with the contract. In many cases like this they are not forced into signing any contracts. Therefore it is crucial to take the time and ask yourself if you ever felt threatened when you were presented with the nullifying agreement. One party may have been paid off to sign a contract. This may include money in return for signing over the rights of a particular product to another business.

A business contract can be nullified in two ways. One way is through the court while the other way is through mediation and arbitration. However, all of these methods do not necessarily require a lawyer. If you can handle the process by yourself, then there is a fair chance that everything will proceed smoothly.When trying to nullify a contract, it is essential to look at the benefits that both parties will receive. You must ask yourself if the suit is worth it and if it would be beneficial to start legal action. If one party feels they will have a high chance of winning, they might want to take legal action. Raphael Avraham Sternberg suggests that if you are considering filing a lawsuit, you should make sure that there are no clauses stating otherwise.

Hurley Development Works with FISH Vancouver on Mobile Food Pantry

Hurley Development Works with FISH Vancouver on Mobile Food Pantry

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In the fall of 2021 Ryan Hurley, President of Hurley Development in Vancouver, Washington was thinking about how the regional commercial real estate development company could give back and impact their region. And he didn’t have to look much further than right around the corner from their downtown Vancouver, Washington offices.

“Our company has been supporting FISH Vancouver, a local food pantry, for many years. They make a huge impact in our community, feeding literally 10’s of thousands of people. Many of our employees take time out of their workday once or twice a month to help pack food and move supplies around…because we want to bring life to our local community and make it a better place.” 

Ryan reached out to James Fitzgerald, Executive Director of FISH Vancouver, and asked, “What are your hopes for the future? Do you and the team at FISH Vancouver have a dream that we can help make reality?”

James thought about what they had experienced during the pandemic and how it had changed the lives of their clientele and affected the work they were doing. During the COVID-19 shutdown, many people were left hungry and unable to access food. What was once a difficult but achievable goal of finding a ride or spending hours on public transportation with children by their side, became almost impossible with public transportation closed down and rides much more difficult to find. One way that FISH staff and volunteers responded during this time was by scheduling temporary “food drop” locations…they found organizations willing to open up their parking lots to allow FISH to deliver groceries from their pantry and distribute them directly to neighborhoods in need. 

After looking at the data of the individuals and families served by the temporary delivery program, James and the team realized this was a revolutionary way for them to reach around the county and impact people who had never been to FISH Vancouver before. The only problem was how to make it happen. “We were using trucks and vans to take boxes of food to temporary delivery locations, but it wasn’t sustainable. We knew we needed a mobile food pantry but didn’t have the funding in place to make that happen. And I thought, you know what…what would it take to make this happen?”

James shared the idea with Ryan Hurley. Hurley, who had already been looking into ways to give back to the community was keen to help FISH Vancouver with setting up its new mobile food pantry. The pandemic had isolated communities and being able to access them was critical. Given the troubles FISH was facing in achieving its objective, it was evident that a mobile pantry was the only way forward. The mobile pantry needed the right equipment and refrigeration so that food could be stored and transported to distant areas safely. 

For this reason, the project was quite capital-intensive but Hurley spared no expense in making the mobile food pantry a reality. The biggest contribution came from Hurley Development, as a generous $60,000. In addition to contributing, Hurley reached out to his business partners, LSW Architects, Specialty Graphic Solutions, and Riff Creative. LSW Architects contributed a further $6,000 covering the operational costs. Riff Creative and Specialty Graphic Solutions volunteered to design the mobile food pantry. Hurley, a regular church-goer, also got the Crossroads Community Church to contribute $15,000 to the cause. This was a great example of the community coming together to find a solution to a problem and Hurley coordinated the entire response. 

“We’re embarking on a new adventure, and we’re going to reach beyond the walls that we have here,” said Fitzgerald.

The new pantry was unveiled at a special event. It included a ribbon-cutting ceremony inaugurating the pantry. The pantry has been equipped with storage space, freezers, refrigerators, and shelves. FISH plans on using the pantry to visit places where there are people from low-income groups, and also health centers and senior centers. “If we can help by showing up with some food at some of the safer homeless areas, the ones that are more sanctioned, that will be an area that we will focus on, as well,” said Fitzgerald.

The pantry is going to make it much easier for FISH Vancouver to access people who were previously unable to reach their food banks because of health or transportation issues. The mobile pantry is a pilot program, and if FISH is successful, they will be keen on expanding this program further to reach even more communities and people. 

In January 2022, the organization had been able to provide food to 1,200 clients. By the end of May, the numbers increased to 1,900 and are not showing signs of slowing down. As long as FISH Vancouver is enjoying community support from conscientious businesses like Hurley Development, they will continue to meet their targets.