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What Does Compliance as a Service Include?

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Compliance as a service (CaaS) is an increasingly popular way for organizations to make sure they are adhering to the relevant regulations and standards. It can be used by companies of all sizes, from small businesses to large enterprises.

CaaS helps ensure that organizations are meeting their regulatory requirements in terms of data privacy, security, and other compliance matters. In this article, we’ll explore what CaaS includes and how it can help your organization stay compliant with applicable laws and regulations.

1. Regulatory Updates:

One of the main components of CaaS is keeping up with the latest regulatory updates. This involves tracking changes in laws and regulations that may affect an organization’s operations, staying informed on potential risks, and making sure processes are updated accordingly to remain compliant.

2. Risk Management:

Another important element of CaaS is risk management. This involves assessing the potential risks that may arise from non-compliance and ensuring proper procedures are in place to mitigate those risks. CaaS provides organizations with tools to identify potential risks, as well as guidance on how to address them.

3. Security:

Security is a critical component of compliance and must be taken seriously. CaaS helps ensure that organizations are taking the right steps to secure their systems and data. This includes everything from firewall measures to encrypting data and access control protocols.

4. Process Documentation:

CaaS also provides organizations with tools and guidance for documenting processes related to compliance. This helps ensure that processes are followed correctly, as well as providing an audit trail in case of any auditing or investigation.

5. Reporting:

Compliance reporting is also an important part of CaaS. This involves providing regular reports to management and other stakeholders on the status of compliance, including any risks identified and steps taken to address them.

6. Training:

CaaS can also provide organizations with training on how to effectively manage their compliance activities. This includes training on how to create and maintain compliance policies and procedures as well as guidance on handling potential violations.

7. Support:

CaaS providers also usually offer service and support for their solutions. This may include access to a help desk, knowledgebase, or other resources to assist with any issues related to compliance.

Organizations of all sizes can benefit from using compliance as a service (CaaS). It helps to ensure that organizations are meeting their regulatory obligations by providing tools and guidance on how to stay compliant, as well as helping them track changes in laws and regulations.

Compliance as a Service (CaaS) provides organizations with the tools and guidance they need to stay compliant with applicable laws and regulations. It helps them track changes in regulatory requirements, assess potential risks, secure their systems and data, document processes related to compliance, provide regular reports on the status of compliance, offer training on how to manage activities related to compliance effectively, and access support for any issues that may arise.

By taking advantage of CaaS solutions available today, businesses can ensure they are meeting all of their legal obligations while protecting themselves from costly fines or penalties associated with non-compliance.

Mastering the Art of Plumbing: Comprehensive Learning Resources

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the dan's plumbing channel tutorials

Plumbing is a skilled trade that involves the planning, installation, maintenance, and repair of piping systems used for water distribution and waste disposal. A career as a plumber can be rewarding and fulfilling, with plenty of opportunities for growth and specialization. Plumbers work in various environments, including residential homes, commercial buildings, and industrial facilities.

With the increasing demand for skilled plumbers worldwide, it is essential to have access to comprehensive learning resources such as the Dan’s Plumbing channel tutorials. This article will introduce you to these and various other resources that aspiring plumbers can use in their quest to master the art of plumbing.

Trade Schools and Technical Colleges

A great way to start learning about plumbing is through formal education at a trade school or technical college. These institutions offer courses specifically tailored toward teaching practical skills required for success in the plumbing industry. They often provide hands-on training in various aspects of plumbing like pipe fitting, welding, blueprint reading, gas line installation, and code compliance.

Graduates from accredited plumbing programs typically receive certification or an associate degree that can give them a competitive edge when seeking employment or setting up their businesses. Some popular schools that offer plumbing programs include:

  • Penn Foster College – Online Residential Electrician Career Diploma Program
  • Ashworth College – Online Plumber Career Diploma Program
  • Alfred State College – Associate Degree in Plumbing & Heating Technology/Pipefitter Journeyman Pathway.

Apprenticeships

The most effective way to develop professional skills in any field is by gaining real-world experience through apprenticeships. Apprenticeships allow aspiring plumbers to work alongside experienced professionals while obtaining formal training in the trade. Most apprenticeship programs can last anywhere between 3-5 years, during which the apprentice completes both on-the-job training and classroom instruction.

Many apprenticeships are offered through local unions or trade organizations, as well as some employers and government agencies. Below is a list of sources for finding apprenticeship opportunities:

  • United Association (UA) – an international union that has numerous local affiliates offering plumbing apprenticeships across North America.
  • Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) – provides information and support to its member apprentice programs around the U.S.
  • Your states labor department website may provide information on local apprenticeship opportunities available for various trades, including plumbing.

Online Tutorials and Courses

In addition to formal education, there are countless online tutorials and courses available for aspiring plumbers who wish to learn at their own pace. Skillshare, YouTube channels, blogs, and e-books offer a wealth of knowledge covering various aspects of plumbing such as common repairs, tools usage, safety practices, and advanced techniques. Some noteworthy online resources include:

  • The Plumbing Academy (online course offered by Skillshare): This comprehensive course covers basic plumbing principles and techniques geared toward DIY enthusiasts and beginners in the field.
  • Vetted Trades Online: Vetted Trades is an educational platform offering a range of plumbing tutorials aimed at both professionals and homeowners looking to gain essential skills in the trade.

Books on Plumbing

Books on plumbing provide an excellent foundation for those who prefer learning from written sources. From basic plumbing guides to advanced system design and installation, several excellent publications are available in print and digital formats. Some recommended plumbing books include:

  • “Plumbing 101” by PHCC Educational Foundation: This textbook is commonly used in technical colleges and apprenticeship programs, making it an excellent resource for individuals seeking a comprehensive understanding of the plumbing trade.
  • “Modern Plumbing” by E Keith Blankenbaker: A widely acclaimed book for providing valuable insights into the latest technologies, techniques, tools, and equipment used in the industry today.

Conclusion

Becoming a skilled plumber takes time, dedication, and access to comprehensive learning resources. By taking advantage of trade schools, apprenticeships, online tutorials, courses, and books on plumbing, you can develop valuable knowledge that will set the foundation for a successful career or lucrative hobby. In addition to honing your skills through practice and ongoing education opportunities will help you stay current on industry advancements and standards. Mastering the art of plumbing is a process that requires hard work but can ultimately be very rewarding.

Water Tanks Unleashed – Exploring Endless Possibilities

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the water tank factory products

In an age where water scarcity becomes a critical issue, managing this valuable resource is increasingly important. Across the globe, viable water storage solutions are being explored to ensure communities have access to clean water for drinking, farming, and industry. One such solution gaining popularity in mainstream applications are the water tank factory products. These versatile units provide storage and management options that cater to various needs.

A Wide Range of Applications

While some may view water tanks as simple storage containers, in reality these units provide a wide range of possibilities. From residential and agricultural use to industrial applications, or even emergency relief situations — there is a multitude of ways water tanks can be utilized:

  • Residential applications: Homeowners can use these storage systems to save on utility bills by collecting rainwater and using it for watering plants or other non-potable purposes. They can also provide supplementary drinking water supply during shortages or emergencies.
  • Agricultural applications: In rural areas and farms where access to regular water supply might be limited, farmers often utilize large capacity tanks for irrigation purposes. By catching rainwater or storing purchased resources efficiently, crop production increases even when droughts occur.
  • Commercial & Industrial applications: Water tanks play a vital role in managing commercial facilities’ needs, including fire protection system maintenance (i.e., sprinkler systems) and cooling tower support (for HVAC system-efficiency). In industries highly dependent on vast amounts of clean water like chemical manufacturing or food processing plants; having properly designed tank infrastructure becomes crucially important.
  • Eco-friendly buildings: As green architecture trends continue to grow, water tanks have emerged as an essential component of sustainable building design. Installing these integral systems can lead to significant conservation efforts and environmental impact reduction.
  • Emergency response & relief efforts: In many disaster-prone areas across the world, securing potable water resources for affected populations is an ongoing challenge. Accessing deployable water tank units enables rapid response teams to provide clean drinking water in emergencies, ensuring minimal loss of life and healthier recovery periods.

Variety of Water Tank Types and Materials

In addition to their wide range of applications, there are several types of water tanks designed specifically for different requirements. These include:

  • Polyethylene or plastic tanks: A popular choice due to their durability, lightweight nature, and ease of maintenance. These tanks are also available in various sizes that cater to an array of needs.
  • Steel or stainless steel tanks: Known for being robust and long-lasting, steel tanks offer corrosion resistance (for stainless variants) while providing a solid construction suitable for industrial applications or large-scale farming operations.
  • Fiberglass & composite tanks: Lightweight compared with metallic alternatives and rust-resistant by design; fiberglass storage solutions boast impressive longevity. Oftentimes used in sectors where chemical exposure risks exist like farming industries reliant on fertilizers or pesticides storage elements, they remain top contenders in terms of versatility among material selections.
  • Bladders and pillow tanks: Flexible yet tough fabric structures used primarily during emergency situations or temporary purposes; their distinct advantage lies in simple transportation even when empty due largely to compact folding designs that make carrying them hassle-free during deployments into disaster-stricken regions requiring short-term solutions such as military outposts or temporary housing settings.

Customization Options for Different Needs

Understanding that each installation is unique, many manufacturers offer versatile customization options to accommodate specific requirements. Considering factors such as location placement (i.e., indoors versus outdoors) and existing environmental conditions will determine whether additional features like insulation, supports, or anti-shock protection become feasible components of proposed tank designs. In addition, plumbing and fittings must be tailored according to installation suitability ensuring seamless integration on-site regardless of application complexity levels.

Maintenance and Care

The diverse selection of water tanks available also means different care and maintenance needs depending on the chosen model. General best-practice principles such as regular inspection routines ensure long-lasting service lives are achieved by making certain that fittings remain securely in place while checking for signs of wear from daily usage like corrosion before concerns escalate into irreparable issues. Maintaining optimal hygiene standards throughout storage vessels by cleaning them periodically additionally promotes healthy environments conducive towards preserving potable water quality over extended periods leading to overall better water management strategies implemented.

Conclusion

Clearly, water tanks have much more to offer than just basic storage solutions. As the demand for reliable water sources grows even higher within various spheres spanning from residential households all the way up through global industry sectors, these structures continue their evolution – constantly adapting new designs suited best towards meeting modern challenges head-on while promoting sustainable practices harnessing key conservation benefits within contemporary society at every level possible today.

What Types of Accidents Can Lead to a Personal Injury Claim?

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afro american woman calling 911 in New york city. concept about car accidents and emergency

Personal injuries can be caused by a wide range of accidents, from car crashes to slips and falls. Depending on the circumstances, they may entitle you to compensation through a personal injury claim. Here are some of the most common types of accidents that lead to personal injury claims:

1. Car Accidents:

One of the most frequent causes of personal injury is car accidents. This often includes distracted, drunk, and drugged driving as well as speeding and failing to obey traffic laws. The injured party may also be able to make a claim against the other driver’s insurance company if their negligence or recklessness caused the crash. Whether you were a passenger, pedestrian, or driver in the accident, if it was someone else’s fault, then you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and expenses related to the crash.

2. Slip and Falls:

Slip and fall accidents are commonly caused by hazardous conditions on someone else’s property. This may include a slippery floor, uneven surface or loose stair railings. Property owners have an obligation to keep their premises safe. The owner of the property would be responsible for any resulting injury if they were aware of a hazard but failed to warn or address it promptly.

3. Medical Malpractice:

Medical malpractice is one of the leading causes of personal injury claims in the United States. Medical malpractice claims may arise when a healthcare provider’s failure to follow accepted standards of practice leads to an injury or death. Common examples include mistakes made during surgery, misdiagnosis of medical conditions, medication errors, and birth injuries. If you’ve been injured due to a doctor’s mistake or neglect, then you may have a claim against them or their employer.

4. Work-Related Injuries:

Workers’ compensation laws exist to protect workers who have been injured on the job, and they may be eligible for benefits such as medical expenses and lost wages. Employers are expected to provide a safe environment for their employees and must adhere to all safety regulations. However, if the injury was the result of someone else’s negligence, then a personal injury claim may also be possible.

5. Product Liability:

Product liability claims can arise when a person is injured by a defective or dangerous product. Manufacturers and distributors of products have an obligation to make sure their products are safe, and they may be held liable if someone is injured due to a defective item. Defective products can result in injury claims if the product is not designed properly or fails to include adequate warnings about potential hazards. In these cases, the injured party can seek compensation from the manufacturer of the product.

All of these types of accidents can lead to a personal injury claim if the other party was negligent or at fault in some way. An individual may be able to receive compensation for physical injuries or psychological harm, lost wages, medical bills, pain and suffering, emotional distress, disability or death. The best way to determine whether you have a valid personal injury claim is to speak with an experienced attorney.

Consult with an Attorney

If you or a loved one have been injured in an accident, it’s important to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney. They can help you understand your rights and determine whether you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Contact an experienced attorney today to discuss your legal options.

How to Test Your Data Backup

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Data center IT administrator inspecting data on laptop, ai digitalization. Network engineer doing system check standing in server room, cyberspace networking service. Handheld shot. Close up.

Data backups are an essential part of any business or individual’s digital security plan. A backup is a copy of your data that can be used to restore lost or corrupted files, allowing you to keep working without interruption. However, it’s important to test your data backups regularly in order to make sure they will work when needed.

In this article, we’ll discuss why testing your backup is so important and provide a step-by-step guide on how to do it correctly. By following the steps outlined here, you can ensure that your data is always secure and available when you need it most.

Why Test Your Data Backup?

Testing your data backup is critical for two main reasons. First, it ensures that all of your most important files have been backed up properly and can be restored quickly in the event of a disaster. Second, it ensures that the backups are up to date, meaning you won’t lose any recent changes or additions when restoring from them.

Step-by-Step Guide for Testing Your Data Backup

1. Choose a testing methodology:

Before you begin testing, it’s important to decide which type of testing is best suited for your needs. Different methods may be more appropriate depending on the size and complexity of your backup system, as well as other factors such as available resources and budget. There are a few ways to test.

You may consider manual testing, where you manually compare the backed-up data with the original files; automated testing, which uses software to automate this process; or a combination of both.

2. Make sure you have the right tools:

Depending on the type of testing you’re doing, you may need to use specialized software programs and hardware devices in order to perform tests accurately. Make sure that you have all of these necessary tools before starting your tests.

3. Identify critical files:

When conducting a backup test, it’s important to identify which files are most important for your particular needs. This will allow you to focus on testing those files first, and ensure that they are backed up properly before moving on to less critical files.

4. Set up the test environment:

In order to perform a successful backup test, it’s important to create a simulated environment that closely matches your real-world setup. All of the hardware, software, and connections should be the same as what you would use in a normal production environment.

5. Perform the test:

Once you have everything set up correctly, it’s time to actually perform the test. This will involve running through a series of steps to create backups of your files and then restoring them to make sure they work properly.

6. Analyze the results:

Once you’ve finished the test, it’s important to analyze the results in order to determine whether or not it was successful. This should include looking for any errors that occurred during the test and making sure that all of your backed-up files can be restored correctly.

7. Make necessary changes:

Once you’ve identified any problems with the testing, it’s important to make changes where necessary in order to ensure that your backups will work in a real-world situation. This may include updating software, making adjustments to hardware, or other steps depending on what was uncovered during the test.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your data backups are properly tested and working as expected. Testing is an essential part of any digital security plan and should be done regularly in order to guarantee the safety of your important files. With the right knowledge and preparation, you can make sure that your data is always secure and available when needed.

How to Plan a Honeymoon

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Couple, love and kiss with a man and woman on a road trip for their honeymoon, vacation or travel. .

Are you looking for the perfect honeymoon getaway? Planning a honeymoon can be an exciting but daunting task. With so much to think about and plan, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But with some careful planning and research, you can create the perfect romantic escape for you and your partner. Here are 10 tips that will help make sure your honeymoon is one of the best trips of your life!

1. Set a budget:

Before you start planning your honeymoon, it’s important to set a budget. This will help you narrow down your choices and make sure you don’t overspend. It also helps to decide what kind of trip you want; if you have a limited budget, a beach vacation may be more economical than an overseas trip.

2. Choose a destination:

Once you’ve set your budget, it’s time to decide where you want to go. Consider the things that interest both of you and choose a location that offers activities or sights that you will both enjoy. Don’t hesitate to ask friends or family for recommendations too!

3. Research flights and hotels:

Once you’ve chosen a destination, it’s time to research flights and hotels. Make sure you compare prices for different dates as well as different airlines or hotel chains. Don’t forget to look into other transportation options such as car rentals or trains if available.

4. Book your activities:

If there are certain activities or tours that you want to do, it’s a good idea to book them ahead of time. This will make sure you don’t miss out on anything and you can plan your days accordingly.

5. Pack wisely:

It’s easy to overpack when you’re going away for a longer period of time, but try to only pack what you need. Bring clothes that can be easily mixed and matched, as well as items that are easy to clean in case of any spills or accidents.

6. Look into discounts:

Many hotels and airlines offer discounts for honeymooners so don’t hesitate to ask if there is a special offer available. Also, look into local attractions; many offer discounts for newlyweds so you can save some money and still enjoy yourselves.

7. Stock up on essentials:

Before you leave, make sure to stock up on any essential items that you may need while away. This includes things like sunscreen, insect repellent, a first-aid kit, and any medications you may need.

8. Bring all your documents:

Make sure you bring copies of all your important travel documents such as passports, visas, and tickets. You should also make sure to bring a credit card and cash in case of any emergencies.

9. Schedule some alone time:

Don’t forget to schedule some alone time for just the two of you during your honeymoon. This could be something as simple as a romantic dinner or a relaxing spa day.

10. Have fun:

Most importantly, have fun! Planning your honeymoon should be an enjoyable experience and you don’t want to get too stressed out in the process. Relax, enjoy yourselves, and make sure you both have the best time possible!

And, if you want to get the best honeymoon possible, don’t hesitate to get some professionals to help out. A honeymoon planner or destination wedding planner can offer great tips and advice, and they often have access to discounts that you won’t find elsewhere.

Planning a honeymoon can be an exciting yet intimidating task. However, with the right planning and research, you’ll be able to create the perfect romantic escape for you and your partner. By following these 10 tips—from setting a budget to stocking up on essentials, you can make sure that your honeymoon is one of the best trips of your life!

Don’t forget to have fun too—it’s important to enjoy yourselves during this special time together! It’ll be the start of a great marriage.

How to Prepare Your AC for Summer Heat

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Female hand holding remote control of the air conditioner

As summer approaches, it is important to prepare your air conditioning (AC) system for the hot weather ahead. Whether you have a window unit or central AC, taking the time to get everything running smoothly will help avoid costly repairs in the future and ensure that your home stays cool all season long.

Here are ten ways to make sure your AC is ready for the summer heat. From cleaning coils and changing filters to scheduling maintenance from an HVAC technician, these tips can help you keep your system running efficiently during those scorching days of summer.

1. Clean the Coils:

The evaporator and condenser coils are responsible for cooling your home, so any buildup of dirt or debris can reduce their efficiency. To clean the inside coils, turn off and unplug the unit and use a vacuum to remove as much dust as possible from both sides of the coil. For exterior coils, spray them with a garden hose to remove any dirt or debris.

2. Change the Filters:

Changing your air filters regularly is essential for keeping your system running efficiently and improving indoor air quality. Inspect your filter every month during the summer and replace it if necessary. Depending on the type of filter you have, you may need to change it more frequently.

3. Check Your Thermostat:

A thermostat that is incorrectly set can cause your AC to run inefficiently. Check the settings and adjust them if necessary to make sure you are running the system at its optimal efficiency level.

4. Eliminate Clutter:

If your unit is located in a crowded space, it will have a harder time cooling the area efficiently. Remove any unnecessary items that are blocking the airflow around your unit and make sure nothing is obstructing the outdoor condenser to allow for proper air circulation.

5. Clean Around the Unit:

Vents, fans, and other components help cool your home by circulating air throughout the house. To keep these parts working properly, clean them with a vacuum or brush attachment

to remove any dust or debris. This will ensure that your unit is running optimally and making the most of its energy usage.

6. Check for Leaks:

Inspect all of the tubing, hoses, and connections for any leaks or damage. If you find any issues, replace the part right away to avoid costly repairs down the line.

7. Seal Any Gaps:

If there are any gaps around your windows or doors, this could be causing your AC to work harder than necessary. Check for air leaks and use weatherstripping or caulk to seal up any openings. This will help keep cool air in and hot air out, which can reduce energy costs and make your system more efficient.

8. Inspect the Ductwork:

Your ducts play a major role in how your AC system cools your home, so it’s important to inspect them regularly for any leaks or damage. If you find any cracked or damaged sections, have them repaired by a professional as soon as possible.

9. Schedule Maintenance:

Having a professional come out once a year to inspect your AC system can help identify and address any potential problems before they become more serious. During this appointment, the technician will clean and lubricate the parts, check for refrigerant leaks, and make sure all of the components are in good working order.

10. Call an Expert:

If you’ve done all of the above steps and your AC still isn’t cooling correctly, it may be time to call in an expert. A qualified HVAC technician can diagnose the problem and suggest the best course of action. Following these tips will help keep your AC system running efficiently all summer long so you can stay cool and comfortable even during those hot days.

By taking the time to prepare your AC for summer and having a professional check it out once a year, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure that your home stays cool during those hot days. Follow these tips and you’ll be sure to have an efficient system all season long!

5 Tips for Better Network Security

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Firewall popup for security cybercrime protection

Network security is critical for businesses of all sizes, as it helps to protect their data and other sensitive information. But with the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats, staying secure can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are steps that organizations can take to ensure they remain safe from malicious attacks.

In this article, we’ll cover five tips for better network security so you can keep your business running smoothly and securely. We’ll discuss why each tip is important and how it can benefit your company in the long run. With these strategies in place, you’ll be well on your way to protecting your business from any potential threats.

1. Establish a Strong Password Policy

A strong password policy is an essential part of any network security plan. Your passwords should be unique and complex, with at least 8 characters in length, and include upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.

Require employees to change their passwords regularly as well as ensure that they are not shared between members of the organization. A strong password policy will help protect your business from unauthorized entry into its systems and networks.

2. Use Multi-Factor Authentication

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an additional layer of security to user accounts by requiring users to provide two or more pieces of evidence in order to gain access.

This could include a combination of something they know (such as a password), something they have (such as a physical token), or something they are (such as a fingerprint). MFA helps to protect your business from malicious actors who could access accounts using stolen passwords.

3. Implement Firewall Protection

A firewall is the first line of defense against online threats, and it’s important to ensure that your business has one in place. Firewalls are designed to inspect and control the traffic entering and leaving your network, blocking malicious traffic that could potentially cause harm to your system. Make sure that your firewall is updated regularly with the latest security patches and configured properly for maximum protection.

4. Utilize Antivirus Software

Antivirus software helps protect your business from malicious software and other online threats. It scans your system for any suspicious activity and blocks any potentially dangerous programs or files before they can damage your network. Make sure that you install quality antivirus software and keep it up-to-date to ensure that your computer systems are protected at all times.

5. Monitor Your Network

Finally, it’s important to monitor your network for any suspicious activity. Look out for unusual network traffic that could indicate a potential attack or breach, and keep an eye on user accounts to ensure they are not being accessed without permission. Additionally, use tools such as intrusion detection systems and log monitoring software to detect any activities that seem out of the ordinary and take appropriate measures quickly if necessary.

By following these five tips, you can help protect your business’s network security and keep potential threats at bay. Establishing strong passwords, using multi-factor authentication, implementing firewall protection, utilizing quality antivirus software, and monitoring for suspicious activity are key strategies that will benefit your company in the long run. With these measures in place, you can ensure that your data remains secure and your business is safe from malicious attacks.

Kelcy Warren’s $10 Million Donation Connects Uptown and Downtown Dallas

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Most people looked at downtown Dallas and saw division. A highway went directly through the heart of the city, separating uptown from downtown and making it difficult for people to get between them. Locals also decried the lack of an urban center, such as a large public park, where families could meet to visit and play games. Entrepreneur and philanthropist Kelcy Warren decided to change all that.

Who is Kelcy Warren?

Kelcy Warren launched Energy Transfer, a natural-gas pipeline company, in the early 1990s. Having recently passed his 60th birthday, Warren is now worth billions of dollars. He has also reached the distinction of being one of the 400 wealthiest people in the United States. However, he has never forgotten his humble beginnings and has always sought to serve the community with his personal wealth.

Kelcy was the youngest of four sons born into a working-class family in Gladewater, Texas. He holds his parents in high regard for instilling a strong work ethic in their sons and insisting that all four of them attend and graduate from college, since the parents never did. Warren has fond memories of attending church regularly as a family and of his parents each taking a role in leading his Boy Scout troop.

Although he never had much money while growing up, Kelcy Warren feels he hit the jackpot with faithful, involved parents. One or both parents often took on odd jobs, such as delivering the newspaper in the wee hours of the morning, and requiring their sons to help them.

Kelcy began taking on odd jobs himself by age 12, saving money for college. Unfortunately, he flunked out of his college his first year due to having freedom he didn’t know what to do with. His father came to the rescue, offering him a job and the chance to make up the credits at a local community college before re-enrolling at the University of Texas in Arlington that fall.

After winning a scholarship from the National Science Foundation in the mid-1970s, Warren became deeply interested in methane gas production. He earned a degree in civil engineering in 1978 and accepted his first full-time position with Lone Star Gas Company. His second employer was Endevco, which he and a business partner purchased in 1992 and renamed Cornerstone Natural Gas.

Kelcy Warren Became Interested in the Park Project Over a Decade Ago

As one of the biggest names on the Dallas philanthropy scene, Warren was anxious to work on the project to create a true city center by connecting the two separate halves. He pictured the Dallas city center being home to a large community park, open-air restaurants, and an amphitheater for concerts.

Kelcy Warren was so ambitious about the project that he donated $10 million of his own funds right away. An additional $40 million for the city center in Dallas came from wealthy local families.

Klyde Warren Park Named After Kelcy’s 10-Year-Old-Son

When the inauguration of the new park and city center occurred in October 2012, Warren’s son, Klyde, was just 10 years old. Before Klyde can inherit anything from his father one day, he must agree to spend at least one day per month cleaning the park. Kelcy hopes that working to take care of the park will give Klyde an appreciation for philanthropy that he will engage in on his own.

The City Center Joins a Long List of Philanthropic Endeavors in Dallas

Since Texas residents pay no sales tax, projects of this nature often fall into the hands of philanthropists like Kelcy Warren. Some of the most iconic buildings in Dallas, listed below, all had backing from wealthy philanthropists who stepped in to do what the state could not without the advantage of tax revenue.

  • Dallas Museum of Art
  • Dallas Symphony Orchestra
  • George W. Bush Presidential Library
  • Nasher Sculpture Center
  • Perot Museum of Nature and Science

Dallas is the adopted hometown of Kelcy Warren, and he will always do what he can to ensure its beauty and upkeep. He understands how important community is to everyone and he feels proud that some of his funds went towards creating the new city center that Dallas residents love so much. 

See more Dallas news from InspireDN

Fitness Services Grow Throughout Latin America

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Fitness opportunities and financial opportunities are coming together in Latin America, where there’s been a boom in people wanting to be in better shape.

This growing demand from the population for fitness services and fitness products over the last decade has led to a larger number of fitness companies providing classes, neighborhood gyms and fitness studios, and other opportunities to help people look better and feel better.

In Brazil, for instance, more than 8 million memberships have been established at various fitness centers. One of the more prominent fitness companies involved in this effort is Smart Fit Escola de Ginastica e Danca (SMFT3), a public company that now has a presence in 160 cities in all of Brazil’s 27 states.

At the end of 2022, Smart Fit had 3.2 million active members in 1,121 gyms and a presence in 160 cities in 14 countries. It’s the largest fitness company in Brazil, and it also has a growing presence in Chile, Colombia, Mexico, the Dominican Republic and others. It’s also considered the fifth-largest fitness company globally.

More than 365,000 SmartFit members are now subscribed to its exclusive work-out program, Quemia Diara, as well as its nutritional app Nutri.

Smart Fit is backed by Patria Investments, a local private equity firm that’s part of Blackstone, as well as GIC, a sovereign wealth fund based in Singapore. This equity has helped it expand into these countries, whether creating a new presence or purchasing existing companies, such as when it acquired Inversiones O Dos, a gym group based in Chile in 2018.

Smart Fit was founded by Edgard Corona, who brought more than 30 years of experience in the fitness industry, as well as experience in other business ventures, including working in retail and science and at his family’s sugar mill.  

Edgard Corona said recovery from a skiing accident, which included physical therapy, made him look more closely at the fitness industry, particularly opportunities for individuals to design their own fitness plan and customize their own exercise routines.

Read: 8 Easiest Ways To Improve Your Focus For Better Performance

His research in the mid-1990s came at a perfect time, when many residents in Brazil avoided gyms, thinking they were places where you only went if you needed help, rather than putting in the time and training to get good results. He visited gyms around the world, including the Planet Fitness chain in the U.S., to look at offerings as well as subscription models. 

Edgard Corona and his son Diogo Corona, the COO, advocate the “HVLP” approach, which is short for High Value Low Price. They began offering traditional individual and group exercise programs.

After seeing higher and higher revenue, including $197.1 million in 2016 and profit of $61.4 million in 2016, it went public on the Brazil stock exchange in 2021. The initial public offering raised more than R$2.3 billion.

Smart Fit focuses on growth as well as innovation. The company is constantly looking for new services to add to its gyms and fitness centers. Today, members can try everything from Smart Box boxing/fitness program to Shape courses to dance to High Intensity Interval training.   

Although it was impacted by the COVID pandemic, the numbers are once again climbing.

Keep Reading: Shares rise 35% on the stock exchange, and fortune of billionaire founder of Smart Fit soars