Warren County Farmers’ Fair Featuring the Hot Air Balloon Festival Celebrating 86 Years

Warren County Farmers’ Fair Featuring the Hot Air Balloon Festival Celebrating 86 Years

Harmony, NJ, July 01, 2024 –For those not familiar with the Warren County Farmers’ Fair, it is a nostalgic event that happens annually, from Saturday to Saturday, the week of August 1. Normally sandwiched between other popular events, it can easily be overlooked. The Fair would like to share more about the event.

It’s a place that makes visitors feel like they have traveled back in time, before cell phones and selfies were a thing. Prices are affordable Advance admission tickets for the event, which runs from July 27 through August 3, may be purchased through the link on the website, www.warrencountyfarmersfair.org. An affordable $10 for adults and $5 for ages 6 through 12. Children ages 5 and under are free, as well as parking. Save on tickets purchased online through July 26.

The Fair works hard each year to present this event. Weather is always a gamble. In 2023, two weeks before the event, the Fairgrounds, along with other parts of Warren County, were flooded. What would have shut others down, brought all directors, family and friends, local businesses and supporters in droves to work tirelessly to bring the event two short, but hard weeks later. The event is truly “family tradition” and a little water was not going to stop the presentation of their annual celebration. The Directors extent an invitation to families this year, to start their own family tradition.

The event has roots back to 1859, but the Warren County Farmers’ Fair Association was officially created in 1937 and this year the Fair is celebrating it’s 86th year. If one is quick at math they might say, “that math doesn’t add up.” That’s because of 2020. (Does one really want to talk about that year?) Only for positive things that grew out of the experience for Warren County. The year the Fair shut down, local balloon pilots and organizers saw no reason to let indoor restrictions stop this outdoor activity. Long time sponsor, Warren Community College, in Washington, New Jersey was game to host the event, with the blessing of the Fair directors.

The College had been highlighting its expansive Drone/Robotics/AI program at the Fair. They welcomed the smaller event for what was thought to be a one-time event to bridge the gap in years, and keep the Fair on people’s mind. Today Warren County boasts three hot air balloon festivals. Two of the three events happen at the College, and help promote WarrenUAS—a program preparing students for high paying jobs in multiple industries. Visitors may also learn about the program at the Fair, with drone demos on both Saturdays, at 1 pm, and their booth weeklong.

Being farmers, the Directors understand changing with the times is necessary to to stay ahead. They have to be flexible in all aspects of their businesses, and the Fair has been no exception. Over the years they began to add agriculture related events like truck pulls, to complement their tractor pulls that run throughout the week. They even added some other thrill shows like Demolition Derbies. This year, opening day Saturday, in the Main Arena visitors can enjoy the Black Cat Hell Driver Stunt Car show.

Today the Fair offers carnival rides, affordable food options with booths run by local non-profits, car, tractor and truck shows and free musical entertainment with a rock, folk or country flair. Visitors may also enjoy the Traditional Arts Expo, where crafters display and demonstrate their skills and passion for quilting, sewing, weaving and crocheting. The Pet Show, Talent Show, Fry Pan Throwing and a variety of other contests and exhibits are open to participate or enjoy. Visit the Rules & Regs page on the website for all the details. Little ones enjoy the Kids’ Corral, where all activities are free of charge to visiting families.

One of the biggest additions is the Hot Air Balloon Festival, added in 2001. There will be mass balloon launches each evening of the Fair, around 6:30 pm. Adventurers can schedule a hot air balloon ride which will take them over the breathtaking landscape of Warren County. For the not-so-adventurous, the festival offers tethered rides each evening. Tethered rides are short up and down flights in a real hot air balloon that is tied to the ground. Reservations are recommended for the full flights. Tethered ride tickets are sold on site the day of the rides, approximately one hour before flight time, to be determined by the weather on site each day. And for those that want to keep their feet on the ground, the balloons will begin to set up and inflate anywhere from 6:15 – 7:15 pm.

All these additions to the Fair over time have created an event that offers a little something for everyone. Visitors travel from hours away for their favorite family traditions at the Fair. By expanding their offerings, while continuing to celebrate their agricultural roots, the Fair organization has been able to continue the event to deliver 86 years of Family Tradition! They look forward to seeing the family on Saturday, July 27 to Saturday, August 3, in the town of Harmony, in beautiful Warren County New Jersey.

Revitalize Your Home with Summer 2024’s Top Renovation Projects by Jen Langhals

Revitalize Your Home with Summer 2024's Top Renovation Projects by Jen Langhals

Arvada, CO, July 01, 2024 — Summer offers the perfect opportunity to enhance both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your home. As a seasoned real estate expert, Jen Langhals recommends considering these top five renovation projects to maximize your property’s value and enjoyment. Let’s dive into the renovations that promise the best returns and satisfaction for summer 2024:

Outdoor Living Spaces: Investing in your outdoor space is a game-changer. Adding a new patio, deck, or outdoor kitchen can transform your backyard into a vibrant hub for relaxation and social gatherings. These upgrades not only make your home a more enjoyable place to live but also significantly increase its market value.

Energy Efficiency Upgrades: With rising energy costs, enhancing your home’s efficiency is more crucial than ever. Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, installing smart thermostats, and boosting attic insulation are practical steps that Jen Langhals advises for reducing utility bills and fostering a sustainable living environment.

Bathroom Remodels: A bathroom overhaul can make a significant difference in your daily routine. Refreshing this space with sleek new fixtures, stylish tiles, or a vibrant coat of paint can turn an ordinary bathroom into a sanctuary and boost your home’s resale value.

Kitchen Upgrades: The kitchen is the heart of any home, and modernizing it can dramatically enhance your culinary experiences and entertaining capabilities. Upgrades like new countertops, modern cabinets, and high-tech appliances are investments that Jen Langhals highly recommends for their substantial returns and the joy they bring to home cooking and gatherings.

New Flooring: Updating your home’s flooring can drastically improve its overall ambiance and aesthetics. Whether you opt for hardwood, tile, or carpet, new flooring is an excellent investment that refreshes your home’s look and adds to its value.

Embarking on these renovations not only improves the quality of your living spaces but also adds considerable value to your property. For more advice on enhancing your home or to start planning your next renovation project, visit Jen Langhals at jenlanghals.realtor. Make this summer a season of transformation and growth for your home.

Addressing Language Accessibility in Criminal Justice System

Irvine, CA, July 01, 2024 –Building on her research on the Latino experience in the criminal justice system, Nancy Rodríguez now is working on creating a solution to accessibility issues for those with language barriers.

The professor of criminology, law and society’s latest efforts are being funded by a $450,000 grant from the John D. Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation.

“Efforts to reduce disparities and inequality in the justice system must include the limited English proficient (LEP) population,” Rodríguez says. “Certainly, language barriers have the potential to impact justice system outcomes.”

Rodríguez and her research team recently produced a policy brief as a result of a previous MacArthur grant project that examined how many Latinos are arrested, detained, and sentenced in courts in select U.S. cities. Those reports showed that local justice systems are not equipped to serve immigrants.

In her “Establishing, Implementing, and Maintaining a Language Access Program” report, she surveyed several local criminal justice systems and discovered gaps in the availability of language services for those who are LEP, despite provisions of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 that require federally-funded agencies to provide meaningful access to their programs and activities. The report finds that while organizations and agencies within local criminal justice systems often receive federal funding, and are mandated to provide language services, specific practices and the extent to which services are made available in those systems remain relatively unknown.

According to 2018 estimates, 12 percent of people (about 25.6 million) living in the U.S. are LEP.

“The LEP population needs language services to meaningfully access public safety information or request public safety services,” Rodríguez notes.

To that end, Rodríguez will develop a framework for effective language accessibility and ensure that the U.S. Department of Justice is serving the diverse LEP communities throughout the U.S.

The Justice Department recently launched its Law Enforcement Language Access Initiative (LELAI), a nationwide effort to assist law enforcement agencies in meeting their obligations to provide meaningful language assistance to LEP individuals. The initiative is being led by the Civil Rights Division’s Federal Coordination and Compliance Section and the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices via COPS. LELAI offers guidance on legal obligation to access, appropriate tools and resources, sample access plans, policies, and forms, translated Miranda warnings, information on machine translation, and funding sources for LEP populations.

“Access resources are needed and the federal government taking a lead with the LELAI is an important first step,” Rodríguez says. “However, little is known about the proportion of LEP persons in communities, their frequency in the justice system, and the needs of LEP individuals with regard to language access. This information is vital if resources are to be used and be effective on the ground.”

Preliminary work from Professor Rodríguez shows that system-impacted Spanish-dominant persons prefer particular types of language access services, and unfortunately, experience frequent poor language access assistance.

“By bringing together local criminal justice agencies and federal agencies authorized to advance language access, there is an opportunity to create an effective model of language access resources for the LEP population,” Rodríguez says.

Her research will produce a report on promising practices associated with language access services and a framework for language access delivery.

AmigoChat Brings Mass Adoption to the AI Chatbot Market

AmigoChat Brings Mass Adoption to the AI Chatbot Market

Tallinn, Estonia, July 01, 2024 –– AmigoChat.io – an innovative AI-powered friend – today announced the launch of its advanced conversational platform, designed to provide quick and efficient answers. AmigoChat.io offers users more flexibility, diverse conversational capabilities, and a unique sense of humor that sets it apart from other AI chatbots.

AmigoChat.io aims to move beyond lifeless robots and stand out by offering a warm, engaging experience, making conversations feel more human and enjoyable. This personal touch is what sets AmigoChat.io apart, ensuring that users get the information they need through pleasant and lively interactions.

AmigoChat.io is designed to be your all-in-one AI friend, a versatile companion that can help with a wide range of tasks. Whether you’re searching for professional support with your job, or want to unwind with some fun, engaging, and pleasant conversation, this tool is designed to meet your needs. As a learning tool, AmigoChat.io can be used to discover more about serious topics, to delve deeper into your personal interests, or to bounce ideas off. Perhaps you’re planning a trip or want to know more about a hobby. With text, audio, image, and additional media capabilities, the AmigoChat.io service goes well beyond similar alternatives to answer your queries.

Dmitry Ratner, CEO of AmigoChat.io, stated, “We couldn’t be more excited to launch AmigoChat.io! Our aim was to develop an AI companion that’s not just smart, but also fun. Whether you’re looking for quick, accurate answers for work-related tasks or engaging conversations, AmigoChat.io has you covered. It’s like having a knowledgeable, entertaining friend by your side, ready to assist with both your professional needs and your downtime chats.”

AmigoChat.io is available on a variety of platforms, making it easily accessible to users regardless of device preference. Telegram offers a direct line to AmigoChat.io in your favorite, ultra-secure, and encrypted messaging app. Alternatively, if you’re a WhatsApp user, you can add AmigoChat.io as a contact and start an engaging dialogue right away. Desktop users can download AmigoChat.io on Windows, MacOS, Linux, Debian, and Ubuntu. Another option is to download the AmigoChat.io app from the iOS App Store or Google Play Store. If you’re looking for a chat without needing any specific application, the tool is accessible directly through the AmigoChat.io website.

AmigoChat.io is committed to continuous innovation and enhancement. As the platform learns from each interaction, it becomes smarter and more responsive, ensuring that users always have access to the most advanced conversational AI technology available.

Markets for Makers Returns to Jacksonville This Weekend

Jacksonville, FL, July 01, 2024 –– This indoor seasonal market will feature over 90 makers offering a wide array of handcrafted and unique items, including home decor, clothing, accessories, jewelry, ceramics, art, and more. Attendees can also enjoy a free DIY station, delicious food and drinks, and fun photo walls, all while filling their complimentary market tote bag with their purchases.

General admission tickets start at $8 online and provide access during a specific time slot, allowing guests to stay as long as they wish. VIP tickets start at $15 online and include early access, an upgraded tote bag, and more. Tickets at the door are $15, subject to availability. Kids under 12 get in free, making this a perfect family outing.

Markets for Makers prides themselves in creating markets in cities across the U.S. allowing attendees to support local and national makers and small businesses.

VeroSkills Announces Formation of AI Council to Drive Innovation and Empower Refugee Workforce

Birmingham, AL, July 01, 2024 –VeroSkills, a pioneering leader in retraining refugees for tech-enabled careers, proudly announces the formation of its AI Council. This strategic initiative underscores VeroSkills’ commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to empower the refugee workforce and address the global tech talent shortage.

The AI Council is composed of esteemed experts in entrepreneurship, tech leadership, AI ethics, and refugee integration. This diverse group will ensure that VeroSkills offers the best-in-class and future-ready upskilling programs, furthering the company’s mission to bridge the gap between refugees and the millions of emerging AI-enabled jobs.

“Our AI Council marks a significant milestone in our mission to create a more inclusive and technologically advanced workforce,” said Daniel Walsh, CEO of VeroSkills. “As we navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of AI and automation, it’s crucial that we integrate diverse perspectives and expert insights to drive our initiatives forward. This council will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of VeroSkills, ensuring that we provide our learners with the best possible opportunities to thrive in the tech industry.”

Addressing the Global Challenge

The world is experiencing a significant surge in refugees, rising from 16.7 million in 2013 to an expected 1.2 billion by 2050. VeroSkills addresses this challenge by empowering refugees with essential tech skills and opportunities, enabling them to thrive in the industry.

The World Economic Forum predicts 85 million jobs will be displaced by automation by 2025, but 97 million new roles will emerge. VeroSkills is poised to equip refugees with the necessary AI and automation skills, preparing them for successful tech-enabled careers as early to mid-stage professionals.

AI Council Members

The AI Council comprises distinguished professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to VeroSkills:

David Lubell: Founder of Welcoming America and a social entrepreneur, Lubell’s work with refugee communities and his leadership experience will be instrumental in guiding VeroSkills’ initiatives.

Eric Ries: Author of “The Lean Startup” and Founder & Executive Chair of LTSE. Ries brings deep expertise in startup methodology and innovation.

George Hu: Board Member at Airtable, Yelp, and World Relief, and former COO of Twilio and Salesforce. Hu’s extensive experience in tech leadership will guide strategic decisions.

Seema Iyer: Senior Director at The Hive; USA for UNHCR. Iyer leverages machine learning to support refugee integration, providing invaluable insights for VeroSkills.

Tihomir Bajić: Managing Partner at X& and a venture capitalist for notable figures, including Kevin Hart. Bajić’s entrepreneurial background and personal refugee experience enrich the council’s perspectives.

Strategic Goals

The AI Council will focus on the following strategic goals:

Enhancing Curriculum: Continuously updating VeroSkills’ curriculum to reflect the latest advancements in AI and automation, ensuring that our learners gain cutting-edge skills.

Driving Innovation: Developing innovative AI solutions that can be integrated into VeroSkills’ training programs to improve learning outcomes and job placement rates.

Identifying Trends: Monitoring emerging trends in AI and automation to keep VeroSkills at the forefront of industry developments.

ADAM Aerospace Announces Expansion of Current Air Force and Space Force Contract to Now Include Generative AI Application

ADAM Aerospace Announces Expansion of Current Air Force and Space Force Contract to Now Include Generative AI Application

Milwaukee, WI, July 01, 2024 — ADAM Aerospace, an advanced cryptography and cybersecurity company, today announced the expansion of its current advanced cryptography contract with the United States Air Force and Space Force to include artificial intelligence capabilities within its latest SaaS technology, BASE.

The new advances allow ADAM to include generative AI and large language models, fulfilling the Department of Defense’s goal to isolate use cases that can benefit from the same technology capabilities as Open AI’s Chat GPT. ADAM can now embed generative AI features into its solutions to quantify and compile more data faster and more securely.

“We are looking forward to the opportunity that has been presented to us in adding an AI component to our existing contract with the Air Force,” said Michael Adam, ADAM’s Chief Executive Officer and founder. “This speaks volumes about our track record in defense tech innovation and adds AI to ADAM’s direct award authority technology scope. The first solution to benefit from this integration will be BASE—our safe house for an airman or guardian’s medical records, training documentation, clearances, and any and all records that need to be stored and secured.”

BASE was developed in 2023, as ADAM was awarded its third consecutive Air Force contract, as a way to leverage a blockchain-based secure environment for personal records. Since its inception, BASE has evolved into a SaaS product allowing a longitudinal approach to any and all personal records. Secure and comprehensive access matters so military personnel can take advantage of every opportunity presented to them and not lose time, benefits, or financial gain they have rightfully earned.

BASE is expected to launch in Q4 of this year and will significantly impact how United States warfighters interact with and secure their own personal documentation from entry to exit.