The MD Exam Team Discusses How Hormones Affect Weight Gain and Loss

NY Weekly Staff on July 6, 2023

Social media is full of fad diets and weight loss supplements that promise to help people lose weight quickly. They offer miracle-esque weight loss solutions, and while some of them are effective in the short term, they seldom offer long-term results. 

However, there are some weight loss programs that focus on a natural portion of our body that affects weight loss: hormones. These magical molecules may just be the key to helping people meet their weight loss goals.

How hormones affect your weight

The connection between hormones and weight loss has long been known. Hormones play an essential role in our metabolism, and the hormone insulin, in particular, has a pivotal role in our body’s ability to regulate its glucose levels. 

There are also hormones that regulate the body’s feelings of hunger: leptin and ghrelin. Although levels of leptin and ghrelin are proportionate to the level of body fat an individual has, those who are obese can start to build up resistance to these hunger-regulating hormones.

As such, people who are obese tend to have greater feelings of hunger, even when their nutritional needs are fully met. Thankfully, the medical industry has found some solutions to this phenomenon that allow people to curb their appetite. The class of drugs known as GLP1 agonists was initially used as a treatment for type 2 diabetes because they stimulate the body to produce more insulin. 

“Although the exact cause of GLP1s helping with weight loss is still unknown, doctors have found time and time again that they appear to curb hunger and cause food to move more slowly into the small intestine from the stomach,” explains Sergio Padron, founder and CEO of MD Exam.

How MD Exam uses hormones to promote weight loss

MD Exam is a revolutionary new telemedicine weight loss program that combines these powerful weight loss drugs with the assistance of trained and experienced coaches and modern technology. With the combination of lifestyle changes and appetite suppression caused by weight loss drugs, patients can be well on their weight loss and wellness goals.

Unfortunately, many weight loss fads tend to focus on unsustainable methods that could wreck the individual’s metabolism. However, the programs offered by MD Exam lean into the patient’s metabolism and help take advantage of it, enabling it to help people lose weight.

“The primary goal of the drugs used in MD Exam’s weight loss programs is to allow individuals to feel full faster,” Padron explains. “The result, ideally, is that those people will eat less food. When combined with lifestyle changes, such as an increase in exercise and dieting habits that inspire them to choose healthier foods, patients in MD Exam’s weight loss program can lose weight at a healthy rate.”

The main program offered by MD Exam is called the “Game Changer” program, which is based around Semaglutide, a highly-effective GLP1 drug. Available as a weekly injection or an oral dissolvable tablet, this medicine interacts with the hormones that make you feel hungry, thus making you feel full faster. This medication has been approved by the FDA as a weight loss management drug for adults who are overweight or obese since 2021.

For those for whom the Game Changer program is not enough, MD Exam also offers what they call the “Ultimate” program. This program uses Tirzepatide — the strongest weight loss drug currently available on the market — and combines the appetite-suppressing effects of GLP1s with GIPs, which creates a radically different relationship with food.

“Because of the drastic effects of this particular regiment of weight loss drugs, the doctors at MD Exam suggest patients try the Game Changer program first,” says Padron. “But patients who need more substantial assistance to reach their weight loss goals have access to it via the Ultimate program. Semaglutide and Tirzepatide affect patients differently — each one works in different ways — but so long as patients take the time and effort to change their lifestyle along with these drugs, they both provide similar results at the end of the day.”

MD Exam’s programs are backed by science

Since MD Exam’s programs are based around FDA-approved drugs, there are ample trials and research available proving their effectiveness. Unlike many weight loss fads and programs based on products whose efficacy is often based on self-performed tests, all medicines involved in MD Exam’s programs have gone through the rigorous clinical trial process required to receive approval from the FDA.

MD Exam’s website contains client testimonials that praise the company’s programs for their ability to help them lose weight much faster than diet or exercise could alone. MD Exam patients have reported losing 10 to 20 pounds in weeks — not months — and thanks to the tools, resources, and coaching support provided by the MD Exam team, patients have the help they need to successfully navigate their weight loss journey.

The reason why MD Exam’s programs are so successful is that they use medicines that tap into the body’s hormones — its natural means of regulating weight gain and loss. All the drugs prescribed by MD Exam’s doctors are FDA-approved and tested, meaning patients can rest assured knowing that their weight loss solutions are scientifically-proven. 

“For those looking to lose weight and feel great this summer, there’s hardly a better program than MD Exam,” Padron concludes.

Mood By a Millennial Now Offering Accessories

NY Weekly Staff on July 6, 2023

With the success of her debut book, “A Safe Place to Land: Mood By a Millennial,” Pria Showalter is not only penning the sequel but has also expanded her lifestyle brand, Mood By a Millennial. The brand has recently added a line of greeting cards and accessories to their impressive catalog, which includes apparel, home decor, and books.

The Mood By Millennial brand is a clarion call to all to recognize and utilize their unique talents, potentially birthing a new generation of entrepreneurs. In essence, the brand serves as a retail motivation oasis for those navigating the convoluted labyrinth of adulthood. The new line of accessories bears the brand logo and allows fans to show their support via a selection of premium products.

Mood By a Millennial focuses mostly on women of color within the millennial generation – aged 25 and up – but is committed to providing a safe haven for everyone in need, reflecting emotions and thoughts that many may feel too inhibited to vocalize. 

Mood By a Millennial Now Offering Accessories

Sourced photo

The brand’s message is disseminated through innovative mediums featured in Showalter’s book, “A Safe Place to Land: Mood By a Millennial”. These include workshops, pop culture quizzes, affirmations, playlists, business tips, and more. The book serves as a beacon of hope for the younger generations, challenging the parochial views of success and perfection. Showalter embraces authenticity and resilience as the keys to thriving, encouraging her readers to strive for their goals irrespective of life’s hurdles.

Pria Showalter is also a self-care enthusiast, millennial lifestyle maven, and an astute co-pilot guiding her audience through the journey of life. A graduate of the Laboratory Institute of Merchandising, New York, Showalter’s passion for creativity has found expression in diverse forms like art, film, and content curation, reaching people across the globe and inspiring them to pursue happiness on their terms.

The visionary author and entrepreneur sits on the board of the Sandra Showalter Williams Foundation, leveraging her platform to mentor people and help them sharpen their entrepreneurial skills. Her lifestyle brand, Mood By a Millennial, celebrates individuality while navigating the complexities of adulthood.

In the next five years, Showalter envisions Mood By a Millennial transforming into a household name, empowering women across all demographics to have their voices heard. She sees her brand expanding its reach by organizing interactive workshop conferences globally, fostering partnerships with major retailers, and promoting her product lines. Most importantly, she aims to break old mindsets and nurture a community that values setting personal and professional boundaries.

“Staying in your lane is important, but knowing when to switch lanes is too,” Showalter shares about her pathway to success. “Good timing is everything. What’s meant for you won’t pass you. You are the main character of your story, so define what success is on your terms.”

The launch of the new Mood By a Millennial products – which includes greeting cards as well as the new accessories – stands testament to Showalter’s unwavering commitment to her vision, setting a stellar example for aspiring entrepreneurs.

“This marks an exciting milestone for our brand,” Showalter says. “It’s been a journey to get to this point but now that the company is really growing and expanding, it’s all paying off. I honestly feel that entrepreneurship, though challenging, is a path worth taking. With consistency, work ethic, and vision, the recipe for success is inevitable.”

With Pria Showalter’s vision and commitment to empowering individuals, the brand continues to provide a safe space for self-expression and personal growth. As they strive to become a household name and empower women across the globe, Mood By a Millennial remains dedicated to helping individuals define their own success and pursue their dreams with unwavering passion and authenticity.

Learn more: https://moodbymillennial.com/ 

Author Instagram: @iamlapria

Chinmay Sahu: Transforming Biometric Algorithms and Fostering Equity in Algorithms

NY Weekly Staff on July 6, 2023

Chinmay Sahu, a prominent computer vision research scientist at Thales DIS USA, Inc., has become a leading authority in the field of computer vision, particularly in the domain of biometric algorithms. With his innovative research work in iris recognition, latent fingerprint identification, and facial recognition bias mitigation, Chinmay has established himself as a distinguished researcher and innovator. His contributions have not only advanced the field but have also fostered fairness and inclusivity in biometric identification systems. 

Chinmay’s notable contribution to the field of iris recognition has garnered widespread recognition for his employer. His pivotal role in enhancing the performance of single-eye-based iris recognition for identification, as demonstrated in the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) organized IREX-10 submission, secured his organization the second rank among more than 14 vendors and 30 participating SDKs on an ongoing NIST-organized evaluation. Through his dedicated focus on iris recognition, a contactless and exceptionally precise biometric modality, he has played a pivotal role in advancing the development of a secure and dependable solution for iris-based recognition and identification objectives.

In addition to his work on iris recognition, Chinmay’s expertise extends to the crucial area of latent fingerprint recognition and identification. This field plays a vital role in crime scene investigations. His research techniques have paved the way for more accurate and efficient latent fingerprint identification, aiding law enforcement agencies and forensic experts in their quest for justice.

Chinmay’s impact in the field of biometric identification extends beyond individual modalities. He has played a significant role in the biometric algorithmic development of the iris-based recognition system, a crucial part of the Multimodal Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS), that caters to a wide range of applications, including law enforcement agencies, defense and intelligence organizations, criminal justice services, border control units, attendance management systems, and Fly2gate services within the aviation industry. The ABIS empowers field officers with rapid identity verification, enabling informed decision-making in critical scenarios.

Chinmay’s Ph.D. research at Clarkson University focused on mitigating bias in facial recognition algorithms.  His research endeavor involved the development of an interpretable skin tone estimate, which promoted fairness and reduced performance disparities across different demographics. By enabling facial recognition applications to foster inclusivity and equity, Chinmay along with his fellow researchers has instilled public trust in these systems, ensuring they serve all individuals fairly and accurately.

In addition to his work in biometric modalities, Chinmay explored keystroke dynamics as a unique method for identifying multiple users accessing shared applications. By leveraging typing keystroke patterns, Chinmay developed an innovative approach that provides continuous user authentication, complementing existing security systems such as password schemes. This unobtrusive method simplifies the login process, enhances the customer experience, and eliminates the need for users to navigate complex authentication procedures.

Chinmay Sahu’s unique contributions to the field of computer vision and biometric algorithms have solidified his position as a prominent researcher and innovator. Through his work in iris recognition, latent fingerprint identification, facial recognition bias mitigation, and keystroke dynamics, Chinmay has made notable contributions in the field and paved the way for secure, fair, and efficient biometric identification systems. His dedication to fairness and security sets a remarkable example for researchers and practitioners in the field, emphasizing the importance of ethics and inclusivity in cutting-edge technology.

Chinmay’s accomplishments include developing a top-ranking iris recognition algorithm evaluated by NIST, USA, which has significantly improved the accuracy and reliability of identification systems. His expertise in latent fingerprint identification has enhanced the capabilities of law enforcement agencies and forensic experts, aiding in criminal investigations. Moreover, his research on mitigating bias in facial recognition algorithms has addressed a crucial issue, ensuring that these systems treat individuals from all demographics fairly and without discrimination.

His contributions to the biometric domain showcase Chinmay’s commitment to providing comprehensive solutions for various industries. His contributions to versatile biometric systems have empowered field officers in law enforcement, defense, and intelligence agencies, among others, enabling rapid and reliable identity verification.

Chinmay’s innovative approach to user identification through keystroke dynamics has simplified the login process and enhanced security for shared applications. By leveraging typing patterns, he has created a continuous user authentication method that eliminates the need for complex password schemes and improves the overall customer experience.

Chinmay’s journey to becoming a renowned computer vision researcher began with his early experiences as a software designer at Alstom Transport India Ltd. His proficiency in C# programming was instrumental in the success of projects related to off-board security management tools for metro train systems. This experience, combined with his master’s program in process control and HVAC systems, has provided him with a diverse skill set and a deep understanding of various domains.

In summary, Chinmay Sahu’s exceptional contributions to the field of computer vision and biometric algorithms, combined with his dedication to fairness and security, have solidified his position as a distinguished researcher and innovator. His work in iris recognition, latent fingerprint identification, facial recognition bias mitigation, and keystroke dynamics has not only advanced the field but has also fostered inclusivity, equity, and trust in biometric identification systems. Chinmay’s passion for ethics and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology make him a true pioneer in the field of computer vision.

What is a First Advantage Background Check, and How Does It Work?

NY Weekly Staff on July 6, 2023

Image commercially licensed from Unsplash

When you apply for work or housing, one of the first steps that occur is a background check. This screening process can include everything from verifying your identification and criminal record to your employment history and educational background. However, in some cases, individuals discover an unexpected obstacle: A First Advantage background check fail.

So what should you do if you discover that your background check failed a First Advantage screening? Well, first off, don’t panic. A First Advantage dispute is possible. If you disagree with your background check results, you can dispute inaccurate information on your report. In fact, there may be situations when you can file a First Advantage lawsuit to protect your rights. Read on to learn more!

What is First Advantage?

First Advantage is a leading global background check company that provides an interactive hiring and screening process. Their services are designed to give employers and housing providers the insights they need to make confident decisions about their applicants.

First Advantage is committed to helping employers and housing providers make informed decisions regarding their applicant selection process. With their comprehensive background check solutions and insights, they can ensure that they are making the right choice for their organization.

As an employee, it’s crucial to understand how the background check process works and how you can handle a First Advantage background check dispute. Let’s look closer at the first advantage background check process – and what to do if you’re denied a job due to background check.

How Does First Advantage Verify Employment?

One of the primary services offered by First Advantage is employment verification. The First Advantage employment screening process involves verifying past and present employment history and checking for discrepancies.

The information gathered during the verification process includes details such as job title, dates of employment, salary, and other data points provided voluntarily by the employer. The employer’s HR department will then verify the accuracy of this information and provide First Advantage with the results.

What Are My Disclosure Rights and Consent to Background Checks?

As an applicant, you have certain rights regarding background checks. You must agree to the check beforehand, and in some states, employers must give you a copy of your background report or at least tell you what’s on it. 

First Advantage is committed to respecting the rights of employees and applicants. This includes their right to know why they are being screened, which information will be checked, and what might happen if something is found. They also allow applicants to dispute any inaccurate information on their background report.

How Long Does A First Advantage Background Check Take?

Generally, First Advantage can provide results within 24 hours for basic searches such as criminal records, education verification, and employment history. More complex investigations, such as international checks or drug screenings, may take longer.

Sometimes, you may face a First Advantage background check delay. This can occur when the employer or financial institution orders the check but doesn’t provide all of the required information. If this is the case, you should contact your future employer and inquire about what needs to be done to speed up the process.

Do Arrests Without Conviction Show Up On Background Check?

The answer depends on the type of background check being performed. Generally speaking, First Advantage will not show arrests without convictions in their standard screening process. 

However, some employers may go beyond a basic background check and request a “lifestyle” or “suitability” criminal record search. This type of search will include not only convictions but arrests and charges that did not end in convictions. It’s important to know what type of first advantage background check results to expect when you apply.

What Is The Definition Of “Decisional” On A First Advantage Background Check?

“Decisional” is a term used in background checks to refer to the process of making a decision about an individual based on the information gathered. This can include criminal record checks, credit history, and other factors.

It is important to note that the decisional process is not always based solely on the results of a background check; other factors, such as references or interviews, may also be considered.

If you find that your background check comes back as “decisional,” it could mean that the employer or financial institution has decided not to hire you based on the information gathered. In this case, it is important to review documents carefully and dispute any inaccurate information.

I Was Denied a Job Due to My Background Check Information- What Should I Do?

In some cases, employers may deny you a job based on the results of your background check. This may be due to issues that arise on your report but often can occur due to misreported information or mistakes in the background check process.

If this happens to you, you have the right to dispute any errors or inaccuracies that are affecting your ability to get a job. There have been thousands of  background check lawsuit settlements over the years due to inaccurate information being reported.

If This Is The Case, First Advantage Provides Advice And Guidance For The Next Steps:

1. Review your background check report and dispute any inaccurate information.

The first step is to review your background check report and dispute any inaccurate information. This process can be done by contacting First Advantage (FADV) directly or requesting a copy of the report from the employer.

2. Contact customer service

You can also contact customer service if you have additional questions or need more information about your background check results. Customer service representatives are available via phone and email to answer any questions you may have. 

3. Understand the Fair Credit Reporting Act

The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) protects consumers from inaccurate reporting by requiring employers to provide a copy of the background check results, as well as an explanation of why it was denied. It is essential to understand your rights under this law in order to ensure your rights are being respected. 

4. File a complaint

If you believe your rights were violated, you can file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission or contact an attorney for assistance. It is important to note that filing a complaint does not guarantee a successful outcome, but it may help protect your rights and require employers to provide a valid reason for denying your application. 

5. Dispute the report

Finally, you can dispute the background check directly with First Advantage. The process requires you to submit evidence to support your claim, which can take several weeks to complete. Once a decision has been made, both parties will be notified of the outcome. There have been very many FADV settlement successes in the past after individuals disputed their background checks.

Can I Sue First Advantage if My Background Report is Wrong?

If you believe that your background report from First Advantage contains errors, you may be able to take legal action. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) protects consumers from inaccurate or incomplete information in their credit reports. If First Advantage has violated the FCRA, you may be entitled to statutory damages plus attorney’s fees and court costs. 

You have the right to dispute any errors on your background report with First Advantage. You can contact them directly or use a consumer protection lawyer to help you navigate the process. If First Advantage does not correct the errors after being notified of them, then you may be able to sue for damages.

It is important to note that if your background report contains expunged or sealed records, they should not appear on your report, according to the FCRA. If they do appear, this could also be grounds for a lawsuit against First Advantage.

The Bottom Line

If you have had a job application denied due to your background check results, it is essential to review your report and dispute any inaccurate information. 

Understanding how First Advantage background checks work – and what may trigger a denial – can help you protect your legal rights and avoid future problems. Don’t be afraid to dispute your background check results if you suspect inaccuracies or errors.

With the right knowledge, you can ensure your background check is correct and accurate. Take the time to understand your protections, and contact First Advantage if you have any questions or concerns. With the right resources and legal advice, you can ensure your background check is accurate and fairly evaluated by employers.

*The information provided here is purely for informational purposes and should not be interpreted as legal counsel. It is advised to seek guidance from Consumer Attorneys for further clarification on your rights concerning background checks conducted by First Advantage. You can reach us by calling 877-615-1725 or by sending an email to

Celebrating Diverse Stories Author Spotlight: Fatima Bala

NY Weekly Staff on July 6, 2023

“Tradition and conservative culture serves as a backdrop for this beautifully heart wrenching tale of love and loss.”

I was very excited to read Hafsatu Bebi by Fatima Bala after reading her previous novel, Broken – Not a Halal love story which has been praised as “A rare and honest insight into a battle between the heart and mind.” 

Her second novel, Hafsatu Bebi, is an emotionally layered and engaging story of a family that tells us that families can be complicated. Every now and then, a book comes along that makes you cancel all your plans and spend the entire time enveloped in the book’s pages- never wanting to leave – Hafsatu Bebi was that book for me this weekend! Engrossing, engaging, and beautifully written with main characters who pull you into their world, a world where the patriarchy and double standards rule, but these women hold their own regardless of their religious and cultural identity.

Hafsatu- Bebi was every bit as moving and compelling as I had hoped it would be. Fatima Bala has proven to be a brilliant storyteller, in my opinion. Her representation of Muslim girls in both books is both powerful and timely. In today’s tense climate, the author manages to tell a story free from all the politics surrounding Muslims, as the story is primarily set in Northern Nigeria. It tells a gripping and emotional story of choice and identity, Hafsatu Bebi had me simultaneously thrilled with excitement and apprehensiveness. Moving in two different eras (1998 and 2021), The novel tells two distinct tales of two Northern Nigerian and Muslim girls. From 1998, Zuwaira is an orphan who lives with her uncle, and she is denied access to education and even a choice of husband. A stark contrast to Hafsatu, who, in 2021, is a recent graduate from the UK, runs her business, smokes shisha, and is in charge of her choices (sometimes not so great) from her dinner to a life partner. She comes from an upper-class, northern elite family with secrets defying the Islamic ideals that govern their daily lives.

Celebrating Diverse Stories Author Spotlight: Fatima Bala

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The beautiful way that the author Fatima Bala has accentuated these differences in both women’s realities, not just the stark contrast in their socio-economic status but issues affecting womanhood across decades which range from domestic abuse, infidelity, cyberbullying, loss, and love. The result is both moving and engaging and by the time the reader connects the two stories, the knowledge of how the cards fall is heartbreaking and poignant.

The story is fast-paced and hardly ever dull. It introduced me to a world – the world of Nigerian life – which is strange, fascinating, and yet oddly familiar all at the same time. Fatima Bala’s writing finds an appreciable balance between being clear and yet striking, and not only is the story itself brilliantly constructed, but the back-and-forth pacing is done delicately through characters as they narrate what turns out to be the same story.

Hafsatu Bebi and Broken are available on Amazon and Kindle.

What to Know About the Growing Popularity of the ‘As-a-Service’ Business Model

NY Weekly Staff on July 6, 2023

Image commercially licensed from Unsplash

With Vijayasarathi Balasubramanian

The Internet has made it easier than ever to commercialize and monetize products, skills, services, and people. It’s the effect of global connectivity, and it’s created a landscape where enterprising and observant businesses can thrive, no matter their size. However, this has also created an environment of rapid trend changes and an overwhelming influx of knowledge. Because of this, we’ve created new technologies and marketing strategies to establish a sense of norm and to better adjust to these variables.

This has led to the creation of the “as-a-service” business model, which is divided into numerous tiers. Though still in its infancy stages, this paradigm has emerged as a way for businesses new and old to develop clear operation goals while also opening new opportunities for growth and chances to better connect with their current consumer base. “As-a-service” has shifted the global economy in a noticeable way, even if businesses and consumers may not be able to pin down the exact terminology or reasons for these changes. By creating a set of service-centric methodologies, businesses are incentivized to creative, competitive, high-quality offerings whether as a product or a service.

Now, we have to go over what the various tiers of this business model are. Four of the most popular are:

  • Software as a Service (SaaS) is also known as “on-demand software”. Essentially, users are able to connect to and use software applications live on the Internet, often on a subscription basis. While there is a healthy balance of SaaS businesses offer their software for free or as a trial, they often have more robust options for paying users. Some examples are Salesforce, Mailchimp, Hubspot, and Wrike.
  • Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) is a model that allows for consumers to create or access virtual machines and for cloud computing to happen at scale using physical and virtual resources. This allows hosts to relieve some of the burdens that come with physical storage and equipment by offering a more centralized location with more optimized processing standards. For small independent hobbyists, this can provide a more accessible medium as they learn their trade of choice. Some examples are Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud infrastructure, and Heroku.
  • Platform as a Service (PaaS) is also known as “application platform as a service” or aPaaS. This is a culmination of cloud computing services that provides developers with a complete development environment that would be needed to draft, store, complete, and deploy applications. The differences between IaaS and PaaS can appear slight at first, but whereas IaaS still allows users to use their physical equipment, PaaS completely offloads this burden and usually specifically caters to developers. Some providers of IaaS also work with a PaaS model. Some examples include Digital Ocean, Dropbox, OpenShift, and Google App Engine.
  • Data as a Service (DaaS) is one of the newer names in the “as a service” universe. It’s a data management strategy that’s completely hosted in the cloud and allows for businesses to manipulate, analyze, and process data with more refined agility. DaaS is still ambiguous in nature, and it can be hard to differentiate its offerings from SaaS. However, the primary thing to focus on is its use of data, which presents a niche market interest for data specialists and professionals and leaves it open to numerous possibilities and endless growth.

“As a service” has many different aspects to it. “Everything as a Service” (XaaS) has emerged as a new umbrella term to succinctly encompass all current and future paradigms. Regardless of how it’s described, it’s undeniable that we have entered a new economical age of interactions. The “as a service” family is still growing, still being honed and refined, so it will be a while yet before we fully know what stands chief among others as different models will appeal to different niches. Others will naturally fall to the wayside as collective and individual needs change.

As it stands, we are in a fascinating age of productivity and commercialization. While this certainly has its downfalls, individuals and businesses are able to compete on a more even playing field. Finances still play an important part, certainly, but the rules have changed to where the most observant, adaptive, and conscientious players survive.

Homezze: Streamlining Home Services and Empowering Customers and Professionals Alike

NY Weekly Staff on July 6, 2023

Home improvement and renovation projects can be so cumbersome and unfulfilling.

Between isolating and prioritizing projects to finding contractors who can work within a budget and offer competitive bids, homeowners are sometimes expending more time and energy than if they picked up a hammer and saw themselves. 

Identifying issues with a home. Finding a contractor. Waiting for that contractor to show up and assess the situation. Sorting through quotes. Working within a budget. Trying to agree on a contract. All of this wastes time.

Home renovation and improvement projects should be gratifying and fun. They should instill in a homeowner a sense of pride, rather than a sense of confusion and frustration generated by many moving parts.

Working to resolve these issues is Zuriel Babalola, who launched the revolutionary startup Homezze to streamline the home renovation industry and simplify the process for customers and the professionals hired to serve them. The Homezze solution illustrates a range of issues plaguing the industry, including:

  • The lack of price transparency and difficulties in obtaining quotes.
  • Limited competition and downward pressure on prices in existing platforms.
  • The need for a solution that benefits both customers and professionals.

Any homeowner or contractor who signs up with the platform—there is no charge—will see in short order how Homezze generates competition, drives quality and decreases costs. Costs are market-driven. Milestones drive project management. Pay-as-you-go defines how financial obligations are met. The removal of barriers to getting work done underscores the entire process. 

Contractors have immediate access to project notifications, which extend into the local community. Once a project is created, service professionals can engage with the homeowner directly through a messaging app; video conferencing; or in-person meeting. 

In addition to renovations, Homezze services include fire and water damage services; lawn and garden; cleaning services; gutter services; painting; tree services; HVAC installation; pool installation and servicing; and more.   

Homezze expands its reach through a series of partnerships, with financial institutions providing home improvement loans and retail stores creating project funnels for contractors.

Key to the Homezze solution is its unique bidding system and the way in which it offers direct engagement between homeowners and service professionals. This feature offers control and choice for contractors as they place bids on projects, and provides homeowners with transparency and fairness in their selection of service professionals.

Zuriel devised the bidding system in the wake of his own frustrations with home renovations. What he envisioned as a straight-forward project turned into a two-year ordeal, and he ended up simply selling the property. One of his biggest takeaways was how the bidding process failed homeowners. So he developed a model in which contractors competed against their peers for a job, rather than submitting price quotes to homeowners in a vacuum.

This approach solves a number of problems by:

  • Bringing efficiency to a market saturated with lead generation engines and fake leads
  • Avoiding counterparty risks that can emerge when services are paid for but not delivered, or are delivered with poor quality.
  • Saving time that can be wasted when homeowners and service professionals are negotiating a contract. 
  • Emphasizing bilateral project management synchronized between clients and service professionals. 

“Our team empowers both homeowners and service professionals,” Zuriel said. “That’s the uniqueness that my team understands and what we’re trying to do in this space—and that’s what motivates them.”

He added that, even with Homezze’s small team, “They see the big picture, and that fosters their collaboration and their energy—their intensity. And that, of course, translates into deliverability, delivering products and services that truly add value.”

The Homezze core values, Zuriel said, revolve around “Our team. It’s the collaboration between team members and the sense of urgency to create solutions for consumers. We’re solving problems that are affecting people’s lives. To create that solution, we really had to challenge ourselves with the idea of what it means to collaborate, what it means to have a sense of urgency and what it means to take a complex idea and make it simple.”

As the leader of this team, Zuriel relies on the experience he gained as a senior product manager who worked in tech for the last dozen years. With his past work, he developed applications in a range of business verticals, including the Victoria’s Secret and Express fashion companies. He has also worked in multiple product roles focusing on energy, logistics and club management sectors.

Now, customers are weighing in with positive reviews on Zuriel’s latest endeavor—Homezze. 

“I needed a door replacement for a newer one I got from Home depot,” said Cindy S. “Within one hour, I received competitive bids from professionals in the area. I would recommend Homezze simply for the ease of use and responsiveness.”

Barbara C needed to replace a tub.

“So, we took a picture and posted a description of what we wanted done,” she said. “I was really surprised to see how easy it was to receive competitive bids from many plumbers and how professional they were. We will be using Homezze again.”

Service professionals can learn more by visiting homezzepro.com. Homeowners can learn more by visiting homezze.com. 

17-Year-Old Gabrielle Wong On Vector-Borne Diseases

NY Weekly Staff on July 6, 2023

By: Ascend

“Age is just a number” couldn’t be more pertinent for Gabrielle Wong, a high school student tackling interdisciplinary research to provide a data collection resource for vector-borne diseases. Continue reading to learn more.  

Did you know that warmer temperatures can increase the geographic spread of where mosquitoes survive and breed? The combination of increased rainfall and warmer temperatures – which we’re predominantly seeing in Africa – is creating more breeding areas for these vectors. And it’s only getting worse as climate change worsens. 

Vector-borne diseases account for more than 17% of all infectious diseases and cause 700 000 deaths annually. But the policies surrounding these diseases don’t provide adequate data for certain rural communities to detect malaria hotspots, putting entire populations at risk. And the reality is, children face the biggest threat, as those under 5 years of age accounted for roughly 80% of all malaria deaths in the African Region. 

That’s where 17-year-old student Gabrielle Wong comes in. An innovator intersecting anthropology and computer science, Gabrielle is using her genius to help countries combat the malaria situation. All while remaining a studious high school student. 

With a focus on vector-borne disease transmission, specifically mosquitoes, the first project she undertook was developing a software called GeoMosquito. 

“GeoMosquito monitors mosquito density malaria rates in SubSaharan Africa using satellite climate and agricultural data, most notably rice field data,” Gabrielle explains. 

Her innovation led to winning first place in the Maxar Climate Mapping Challenge in the 2022 NFTE World Series of Innovation, and is currently applying for a patent for her novel machine learning model method to analyse satellite data more accurately. To further enhance her software, she built a machine called MosquitoSat, which serves as a mosquito logging device using acoustic sensors to detect mosquitoes.

Gabrielle’s focus for MosquitoSat was Kebbi in Nigeria as it has the highest production of rice in the country. Rice fields are mass breeding sites for mosquitoes, and Nigeria accounted for 31.3% of all malaria deaths worldwide in 2021. Despite running into difficulties while collecting data, the model was successful and supported her hypothesis.

But the lack of data showed the inequality between data collection methods. “We have a lot of data about urbanised places such as Hong Kong or the UK,” she says, “but in rural areas in Nigeria, or areas in SubSaharan Africa, you really couldn’t gauge how much viable data you had. In the end, specifically because it’s so rural, the collection methods were either too expensive to execute, too remote to execute, or just not viable from other factors.”

Given this reality, Gabrielle’s software and machine solve all these problems by identifying mosquito habitats, predicting climate change’s impact on disease spread, and warning at-risk areas. 

“We’re building it in this very sustainable, easy software and a very small machine, and is actually equipped with a drone, which means that it can be easier for people living in those rural communities to track down where the risk of mosquitoes might be, essentially preventing them from contracting the disease,” she continues. 

With plans of making her software and machine scalable to be accessible on a global level, Gabrielle is not just combating the current issue of malaria but creating a preventative measure to safeguard people worldwide from vector-borne transmitted diseases. 

And her scope doesn’t end there. Not only is she stunting the malaria crisis using software development and machine learning analysis, but she’s also giving back to children around the world. 

After Cambodia faced heavy flooding in 2019, leaving rural areas severely damaged, Gabrielle felt inspired to travel on a volunteer mission to help the affected communities. 

“What drove me to volunteer was a sense of unity that you want to be able to help someone facing such heavy flooding and heavy rain,” she explains, and while she was there she did whatever she could to “help them have a more comfortable home to live in.”

During her time painting and building new homes, she visited local schools and connected with the children by reading stories and even teaching an English class, but she quickly discovered the lack of supplies needed to support a well-rounded education. 

“The teachers also said the children have never actually really had a computer to learn with or play with,” she emphasises, and it sparked an idea to change this reality. 

Fast forward two years later in 2021, Gabrielle began raising money to purchase computers for one of the villages she visited. And the Discimus Foundation was born. The nonprofit organisation provides computers and quality computer and coding lessons to children worldwide with over 400 lessons, 30 plus teachers, and 9,000 student attendance in total. Gabrielle and her foundation have donated more than 45 computers to schools in 5 countries with plans of further reach and expansion. She has presented her work at large global festivals such as the Women’s Forum For The Economy And Society and the UNESCO Learning Planet Festival.

Through Discimus, Gabrielle was nominated as a finalist for The Commonwealth Youth Award and also received The 2023 Diana Award, the most prestigious accolade a young person aged 9-25 years can receive for their social action or humanitarian work.

And in her spare time from giving back to so many individuals? Gabrielle plays for her school badminton team, as the captain, keeping her connected to friends and supporting a balanced personal and work life. 

An inspiration for her generation and future generations to come, 17-year-old Gabrielle Wong is altering the course of vector-borne diseases for the better. 

Visit Gabrielle Wong’s website Discimus Foundation today to learn more about her philanthropic efforts and show your support. 

Inspiring Change and Giving Back: Shazad Carbaidwala’s Journey

NY Weekly Staff on July 6, 2023

Shazad Carbaidwala’s remarkable journey of personal transformation extends beyond his own achievements. Through his book, coaching career, and motivational speaking engagements, he inspires individuals to embrace change and realize their potential. Moreover, Carbaidwala’s commitment to giving back is evident through his charitable initiatives and involvement with organizations like The Outreach House, HCS Family Services, Little City Foundation, and Prisoner Visitation and Support (PVS). This article explores the profound impact of his book, his role as a life coach and motivational speaker, and his dedication to supporting various charitable causes.

Carbaidwala’s book, “Row,” not only serves as a source of inspiration but also as a means to give back to society. All proceeds from book sales go directly to charitable organizations, enabling Carbaidwala to make a tangible difference in the lives of others. By sharing his personal journey of redemption and empowerment, he not only inspires readers but also supports causes that promote positive change and social well-being.

Carbaidwala’s coaching career and motivational speaking engagements are instrumental in empowering individuals to overcome challenges and embrace personal growth. As a certified life coach, he offers guidance, support, and practical strategies to clients, helping them unlock their potential and achieve their goals. Through motivational speaking, Carbaidwala shares his powerful story, inspiring audiences to make positive choices, believe in their capabilities, and pursue their dreams.

Carbaidwala’s dedication to giving back is exemplified by his involvement with various charitable organizations. The Outreach House, HCS Family Services, and Little City Foundation are just a few of the organizations he supports. Through his contributions, he helps these organizations provide crucial support, resources, and assistance to individuals and families in need. Additionally, Carbaidwala’s role on the Board of Prisoner Visitation and Support (PVS) allows him to visit prisons and share his story of transformation, bringing hope and encouragement to incarcerated individuals who are seeking a second chance.

Shazad Carbaidwala’s book, coaching career, and motivational speaking endeavors are a testament to his commitment to empowering others and creating positive change. By sharing his personal journey of redemption and empowerment through “Row,” he not only inspires readers but also supports charitable causes through the proceeds of his book sales. Furthermore, his coaching career and motivational speaking engagements allow him to guide individuals toward personal growth and transformation. Carbaidwala’s involvement with charitable organizations showcases his dedication to making a tangible difference in communities and providing hope to those in need. Through his multifaceted efforts, Carbaidwala continues to inspire, empower, and uplift lives, fostering a culture of positive change and compassion.

New Truck for Paulie: A Gripping Tale of Love, Betrayal, and Family Secrets

NY Weekly Staff on July 6, 2023

Step back to 1969 and immerse yourself in the heart-wrenching story of “New Truck for Paulie.” This compelling play, which has yet to be professionally produced since 1996, is returning triumphantly to the stage thanks to the talented ensemble cast from Straight from DeHart Productions. Under the skilled direction of Patrice DeHart, this local community theater company promises to deliver a captivating performance that will leave audiences spellbound. Prepare to be moved by the raw emotion of the incredible actors and actresses as they bring this beautifully crafted story to life.

“New Truck for Paulie” revolves around a family torn apart by the Vietnam War. The eldest son, Paulie, is presumed dead after going missing in action, leaving his brother Nick grappling with the weight of his memory. Nick finds solace in a relationship with Paulie’s old girlfriend, Julie, but the lingering presence of Paulie overshadows their love.

Unexpectedly, Paulie returns home, shattering the fragile equilibrium within the family. Their father, Gus, who had previously denied Nick’s request for a new truck, unexplainably purchases one for Paulie, inviting him into the family business. This act of favoritism drives a painful wedge between the brothers, leaving Nick devastated and desperate for love and acceptance.

Nick uncovers a closely guarded secret about Paulie’s time in Vietnam in a shocking turn of events. This discovery pushes him to embark on a reckless path to regain his father’s approval and win back Julie’s love. As the story unfolds, the family descends into a spiral of chaos, forever altering their lives.

With a talented ensemble cast, “New Truck for Paulie” promises a performance that will resonate with audiences long after the final curtain call. Darryl DeHart, Matthew Fairall, Adriana Neves, Heidi Schuyler, Phoenix Brewer, and Josh Dalton breathe life into their characters, skillfully portraying the complex emotions and intricate relationships that define this powerful drama. Written by the brilliant Sean O’Connor and masterfully directed by Patrice DeHart, this play will surely captivate theater enthusiasts.

Join Straight from DeHart Productions as they revive the award-winning play “New Truck for Paulie,” breathing new life into a timeless story. Be prepared to be moved by the exceptional performances of the talented cast, who, under the guidance of Patrice DeHart, will transport you to a tumultuous period in history. Secure your tickets now and prepare to be immersed in a world of gripping emotions, intense familial dynamics, and the enduring power of the human spirit.

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