One of the biggest global trends in the drinks sector today is moderation. Americans are reevaluating their consumption habits, and the rise of non-alcoholic options is reshaping the landscape. Cincinnati is no exception to this trend, as Kroger continues expanding non-alcoholic options. Among these new choices, Giesen 0% Sauvignon Blanc takes the lead as the #1 selling non-alcoholic wine over $12.

As we explore the rise of mindful drinking, we’re thrilled to introduce you to the New Zealand winery at the forefront of the NOLO (No and Low Alcohol) revolution: Giesen 0%. This weekend in Downtown Cincinnati, health-conscious wine lovers have reason to cheer as Giesen 0% gets set to present their full non-alcoholic range at the Kroger Wellness Festival on September 22 and 23 at The Banks on Freedom Way & 2nd Street.

Why Non-Alcoholic Wines Are More Popular than Ever

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Did you know? Non-alcoholic wines are one of the hottest trends in drinks. It turns out that many of us (especially after the pandemic) want to focus more on healthy lifestyle choices, like non-alcoholic wines and mocktails. Remarkably: non-alcoholic beer, wine, and spirits are up 54% this year alone, based on a national study by the BevAlc Insights Team.

Studies show that wellness is a top priority for many Americans – and also a work in process. A recent survey conducted by OnePoll for Giesen Wines discovered that two in three American adults believe there is room for improvement in their wellness (67%). 70% of adults cited well-being and a balanced lifestyle as priorities. 73% of respondents want to be more conscious of their body’s needs, and 46% aim to consume alcohol in moderation. All in all, the evidence shows that Americans want to make more mindful choices regarding health and wellness.

So what does the term mindful drinking mean in practice? Per OnePoll, most of us don’t want to eliminate alcohol completely, but we are seeking moderation. 55% of regular alcohol consumers are eager to commit to a “dry” timeframe in 2023, similar to popular challenges like “Dry January” or “Sober October.” Non-alcoholic wine (43%) is the top choice, surpassing non-alcoholic beer (24%) and spirits (15%). Another surprising fact: most non-alcoholic wine drinkers also consume full-strength wine, and balance premium styles like Giesen 0% as part of a balanced lifestyle.

A New Appreciation of NA Wines

Whether you want to take time off from drinking or just cut back, Giesen 0% wines are a great option to share with friends or to enjoy at home. Giesen 0% Wines have been making waves with their exceptional non-alcoholic range, which includes Sauvignon Blanc, Rosé, Pinot Grigio, Riesling, Premium Red, and the eagerly awaited 0% Sparkling Brut set to release this fall. These award-winning alcohol-removed wines capture the essence of their New Zealand origin while offering a guilt-free alternative for those seeking lower-calorie, non-alcoholic options to match their healthy lifestyles.

Giesen 0% wines are grown, harvested and fermented just like any other wine. After fermentation, the alcohol is gently removed while retaining the aromas and flavor profile. As a pioneer in the NOLO (No and Low Alcohol) category, Giesen uses cutting-edge spinning cone technology to produce premium alcohol-removed wines with low calories. Giesen 0% tastes like wine because it is wine! With less than 0.5% alcohol per volume, no added sugars, and only 19-27 calories per 5 oz serving, this wine also scores high in wellness points.

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Ready to Try 0% Wines?

• See what everyone is raving about and try the nation’s #1 selling Giesen 0% Sauvignon Blanc, available at your local Kroger store. It features delicate orange aromas of fresh lime, redcurrant, and lemon shortbread, followed by distinct blackcurrant and passionfruit notes.
• Giesen 0% Rosé is another fan favorite. This light-bodied go-to boasts delicious stone fruit aromas of white peach, apple, and fresh strawberries. Those apple and stone fruit notes linger on the palate alongside crisp cranberry flavors and a lively, refreshingly dry texture.
• Fans of Pinot Grigio, you’ll love Giesen 0% Pinot Grigio. Expect delicate floral notes with white flowers, lychee, and red apple on the nose. Its taste is light, delicious, and balanced between crispness and sweetness, offering everything you love in one glass.
• For red wine lovers, check out Giesen 0% Premium Red. Expect delicate aromas of crushed blackberry and wild herbs in Giesen 0% Premium Red. Crushed red berries and plum offset by toasted oak on the palate combine to give a light and refreshing option for any occasion.
• Giesen 0% Riesling is recommended as an aperitif and offers a lively and refreshing Riesling character with zingy lime, ripe mandarin, and delicious sweetness, all balanced by crisp acidity to appeal to wine lovers and sommeliers seeking food-friendly pairings.
• Celebrate without compromise this holiday season with the newest addition to the premium range, Giesen 0% Sparkling Brut! As of October 1, this delicious sparkling wine boosts a mere 21 calories per 5 oz serving with no added sugars—making it one of the lowest-calorie sparkling wines available.

Join the AF Happy Hour at Kroger Wellness Festival

Cincinnati, get ready to experience the best of Giesen 0% Wines and the art of mindful mixology at this year’s Kroger Wellness Festival, on September 22 and 23! The free health and wellness festival will showcase more than 150 experiences and food offerings focused on six core pillars of transformation: Balance, move, breathe, care, uplift, and play.

On Friday, September 22, influencer mixologist Deb Podlogar of Mocktail Mom will host an AF (alcohol-free) Happy Hour at the Giesen 0% Pavilion (Booth 711) between 3:30 – 5:00 PM. Known for her delectable AF cocktails, Mocktail Mom will debut new drinks made with Giesen 0% New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. Be sure to stop by to meet Deb and savor the Cincinnati-inspired mocktail. You can also sample the full range of Giesen 0% wines, including the newly released 0% Sparkling Brut.

For more information, visit the Kroger Wellness Festival website and follow @giesenwines for live updates.

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The National Alliance on Mental Illness is celebrating 39 years of providing mental health resources to Berkshire County.

The non-profit organization will mark the anniversary on Sept. 19 with an annual meeting and awards dinner at Proprietor’s Lodge from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

The evening will feature dinner, live music, games, and special guest Ken Duckworth, the chief medical officer of the National Alliance on Mental Illness and author of “You Are Not Alone.”

“This is an annual event that we hold which recognizes mental health professionals or individuals within the community who are doing outstanding work to support mental health needs,” Berkshire County Executive Director Melissa Helm said.

The national organization’s goal is to improve the lives of people with mental illness through support, education, and advocacy.

Helm said Berkshire County chapter has undergone substantial growth in the last couple of years. She took office in November 2021 as the first full-time executive director.

“Having that switch from really our capacity for time and resources to serve the community has been huge for us,” she said.

“We’ve been able to double our operating budget from the one I started with, so from 2021 to 2022, and continue to grow it this year in 2023, which has allowed us to introduce new youth mental health programming.”

The organization has been running new partnerships with the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health in which it brings high school-aged youth in for a mental health retreat day.

“So just giving them some time and space to really explore what works for them as far as positive self-care practices,” Helm said. “And that’s something completely new to us. We hadn’t worked within the school districts before. It’s a big passion project of mine.”

She pointed out that 50 percent of lifetime mental health conditions present themselves around this age and that 75 percent present by the age of 24.

“We’re really hitting a prime time when we’re serving those youth in high school who might just be getting ready to go off into college or take that next step in their adult lives, whatever that might look like,” she added.

“And just making sure that they have the tools to best take care of themselves.”

The organization has also grown its support groups, which have been run since its inception but were historically only support groups for family members, caregivers, and loved ones of a person living with a mental illness. Last year, peer support groups were introduced for people living with mental health conditions.

Helm pointed out that all of NAMI’s programming is free and available to anyone who needs it.

“We’re just continuing to explore the needs in the community and how we can help to meet those needs,” she said.

“Specifically something that we’ll be talking about at this year’s annual meeting is the progress being made towards crisis intervention training for police and first-responders and the new partnership with South Hadley Police Department, who we will be working closely with, and also the introduction of a new crisis intervention partners program that coincides with crisis intervention training.”

The goal of the crisis intervention partners program is to help other frontline professional organizations outside of, and including, first responders and law enforcement be able to better recognize a mental health crisis and the steps that they can take to help that individual in the moment and resources that can be used outside of just calling the police.

Helm also spoke to the landscape of mental health care coming out of the pandemic.

“It’s a challenging time to be in mental health care. It’s not unique to the Berkshires but certainly a challenge here that we don’t have enough mental health providers to go around,” she said.

“I think that’s a twofold result both of the pandemic exacerbating mental health conditions and also sort of the stigma being chipped away at. People are more open to talk about their experiences than they were in the past and just sort of more aware of what might be going on with them so that’s a really good thing that people are having more of an openness to seek help.”

As a community organization, NAMI is working to help create additional support for people who are on a waitlist for therapy or at any stage in their mental health journey.

NAMI is seeking nominations for two award categories: the Eunice E. Zorbo Citizen of the Year Award and the Silver Ribbon Award.

The Zorbo Award recognizes someone who has shown an understanding of mental illnesses and advocates for improvement in the treatment of those who live with mental illnesses and their caregivers and the Silver Ribbon Award recognizes an outstanding advocate in the mental health field.

The event, sponsored by Berkshire Bank, will also include a meet and greet and book signing with Duckworth.

Tickets are on sale for $35 while supplies last at namibc.org.

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From seed to finished shade, Hartmann&Forbes is committed to crafting bespoke, all-natural window- and wallcoverings for discerning designers who prioritize eco-conscious materials and exquisite artistry above all else. Based in Tualatin, Oregon, the to-the-trade company creates its textiles from an array of organic fibers that it harvests, then weaves on traditional handlooms, adhering to sustainable practices at every stage of the process. The resulting heirloom-quality pieces have earned the brand an impeccable reputation as a resource for innovative designs as well as recognition as one of Oregon Business magazine’s 100 Best Green Workplaces for the past 11 years.

Distinguished by its textural nuances, earthy palettes and nature-inspired patterns, Hartmann&Forbes’s designs reflect the authenticity of the past while meeting modern needs. From arrowroot to water lily, artisans harvest and weave renewable, plant-based fibers into intricate fabrications of warps and wefts that embrace tradition and challenge boundaries in ways only individual handiwork can. The boutique, anti-assembly-line approach allows for a level of customization that’s too often a rarity in today’s world. Informing every aspect of the practice is a dedication to environmental stewardship and a profound appreciation for the planet. On the occasion of Hartmann&Forbes’s 25th anniversary, founder and chief creative officer Michael Jones reflects on the company’s holistic approach to business and belief that a sense of sanctuary and well-being is a necessary impact of home goods.

Meticulously hand-placed sano panels in organically tonal palettes create the textural, suede-soft surface feel of Hartmann&Forbes’s artisan-crafted Aleutian wallcoveringCourtesy of Hartmann&Forbes

Congratulations on your 25th anniversary! Looking back, looking forward, what’s on your mind on this momentous occasion?

I’m quite hopeful, honestly. If you’d asked me 15 years ago, I probably would have said, “Technology is moving so rapidly, how are we going to adapt” [as] a company that provides hand-made, hand-woven, high-touch products?

All of our fabrics start as a seed. Jute and linen. Arrowroot has a beautiful sheen. We use the husks of bamboo—after they fall off during the growing process, we gather them, then strip and tie them for fibers. We’re doing more and more with banana fiber lately. Cork, hemp, palm, ramie. A lot of different river reeds and seagrasses. Vetiver is interesting because it’s got a natural minty fragrance that carries over to the textile, making a room smell like a spa.

We cultivate our own harvests, sort the fibers by thickness, bundle and sun-bleach them, weave up to 15 feet wide by hand to quarter-inch tolerances, and then translate that into a window shade that can interact with a smart home system or an iPhone. We take this traditional product and apply it to modern, sophisticated purposes.

Maintaining craftsmanship while adapting to technology must be a balancing act.

If you love working with your hands, you can find a home [working] at Hartmann&Forbes forever. We’re a sort of human development organization. People are the only reason we exist. The design and craftsmanship is amazing and wonderful—but we’ve always been a people-first organization. We respect each individual, and help them discover their unique gifts and how they can contribute to the whole.

The company farms and harvests its all-natural fibers from seedCourtesy of Hartmann&Forbes

You’ve found a way that’s equitable across the board, both in compensating your artisans and selling your products?

We control the whole process, from farming to weaving to fabricating, which leads back to design. We offer almost unlimited customization. If a designer has an idea, we can help them bring it to life.

Since everything is custom-woven, there’s also no waste. We’re not a company that has a 100,000-square-foot factory full of fabric where 30 percent is going to end up obsolete and thrown in a landfill. We don’t have stock material; we custom-make it. That’s incredibly unique as well. We have several exclusive locations overseas where we do all our farming and weaving. All our fabrication is done here in Oregon.

You’re a native of Oregon yourself. Is there something in the water that makes the state the perfect place to support your business philosophy?

For sure. I think the Pacific Northwest is one of the most beautiful places in the world. And what’s interesting is, we’re starting to see the issues we’ve cared about for a very long time become more important [to society at large]. The environment, obviously. And there’s a connection happening with wellness, an awareness that what we do ultimately impacts not just planetary health, but human health.

We want to play at the apex where human and planetary health come together. We want to deliver a sanctuary experience, because we believe that in today’s hyperconnected world, people need to be restored. My office has so many plants that it’s a jungle; you’d wonder how I get any work done. But it’s because I feel better in nature. I’m out walking or hiking, forest bathing, five or six days a week. It’s where I get restored.

At Hartmann&Forbes, we focus on not just the biophilic components of having nature in your home, but also making sure people can feel at peace with their decisions. We do all the vetting for you so that you can trust that whatever you buy from us is going to be well-made. It’s going to be fair-trade. It’s going to be nontoxic. It’s going to be beautiful. We want to be the most trusted brand in our marketplace, and trust is built by being honest. That’s why it’s been so important to remain an independent company. Being independent allows us the freedom to stick to our standards.

Arrowroot, bamboo husks, banana fiber, cork, hemp, palm, river reeds and seagrasses are just some of the plants Hartmann&Forbes transforms into textiles—vetiver retains its delicate minty scent Courtesy of Hartmann&Forbes

So it’s not just the positive effect of being surrounded by sustainable products, it’s their life before and after. You’re thinking of it holistically.

Absolutely. And it’s relational over transactional, asking from the very beginning: Can it be organically farmed? What are we using in our dyes? What’s the carbon footprint? Lots of brands preach it. Hartmann&Forbes just does it, each and every day. It’s why we’ve been ranked as one of the top green companies in Oregon for over a decade.

At the same time, you are running a business. What are the sticking points you’re still trying to reconcile as you anticipate the next 25 years—

Or the next three weeks! Every challenge is an opportunity to grow. Anytime you create a constraint, it allows for creativity. At the start of the pandemic, we didn’t know if or for how long we might have to be closed. We had just remodeled and doubled the size of our facilities. We moved in three days. It was hard work, but our team rallied, and that ended up putting us in a position where we could sustain the growth we experienced during the pandemic, which nobody could have forecasted.

We use nature as our North Star. We strive for that same resiliency. We probably don’t gauge success according to classic business measurements. Internally, we say: “We want to be great, not great big.” We also emphasize transparency. When we have struggles, we talk to our clients about it, saying, “Here’s the issue we’re dealing with, here’s how it might impact you, and here’s what we’re doing to overcome it.”

Precisely woven grassweave patterns offer irresistible tactilityCourtesy of Hartmann&Forbes

What kind of issues come up?

From the design side, we’ve had situations where we’re trying to make a natural-colored fiber white because that’s what the designer spec’d. Well, some of those fibers don’t like to stay white; they want to return to their natural shade.

Our business has grown a lot, but we do not jeopardize our quality to produce things faster. We’ve had to navigate expectations, telling clients: “You will get the best product we can possibly make, but we’re not going to take shortcuts. We can’t rush this process.” Everything we make looks so impeccable once it’s done that people don’t understand how much work it takes. We try to have empathy, but educate them.

Speaking of education, you have an MBA and a background in finance, and now you are chief creative officer of a luxury furnishings company. How did those two strands come together?

It’s one of those mysteries. Working in the financial world was good training for what I didn’t want. I was good at it, but I just wasn’t happy. On Sundays I’d start thinking, “Oh man, I’ve got to go into the office tomorrow.” Finance was very performance-oriented and shame-based. You were never good enough. That was the root of why I wanted to build something myself, slowly and consistently and in the right way. I’ll take grace over performance any day.

Even with my MBA, I learned a lot more from building and running a business. In graduate school, they never even taught us how to hire an employee. In design school, you study a lot of theory, but it’s only when you start working on projects that you really learn how to design. I call myself a design entrepreneur, because while I oversee all creative, we have a lot of very skilled, talented designers who work here, day in and day out. They’re the real creatives. I’m just the one making sure it all comes together and makes sense.

Shown in the Chakra colorway, Aura combines ramie and arrowroot in a complex, contemplative weaveCourtesy of Hartmann&Forbes

Based on your “slow business” philosophy, I can’t help but be curious: Did you grow up in any particular religious tradition? Did you have a spiritual epiphany after business school?

It’s the way I’m made, I suppose. I’ve always wanted to create a culture that was nonjudgmental and open to everybody; to see the human first, because we’re all works in progress. The core values of most religions are very similar. It doesn’t matter if somebody is following Hinduism or Buddhism or Jesus: Whatever their foundational beliefs might be, those change too. People evolve as they mature and experience suffering and challenges.

There’s not a lot that’ll get you fired at Hartmann&Forbes except a failure of integrity. You lie, you cheat—that, we won’t put up with. But you mess up on a project, you miss a date, no problem. We pick you up, we help you out. We jump on your team and roll up our sleeves.

Has your clientele’s appreciation for what Hartmann&Forbes offers evolved over the years too?

People are recognizing that there is a downstream impact to their behavior. I hope that the Hartmann brand can be part of the solution based on the ethical way we make our products. There truly isn’t a sustainable company. There are only responsible companies. We aim to be responsible. Yes, we have a footprint. Everybody does. Ours is cleaner than most.

For the next 25 years, I hope we can continue to be a leader in sustainable practices while making unique products for designers. Sales and profits and metrics and all that stuff is important, but it dehumanizes the entire process. There’s this movement now toward conscious capitalism, with targets that take not just growth but impacts into account. At Hartmann&Forbes, that’s our mission.

For 25 years, Hartmann&Forbes has prioritized eco-conscious materials and exquisite artisanship. Its all-natural textiles are woven by hand on traditional looms

Courtesy of Hartmann&Forbes

This story is a paid promotion and was created in partnership with Hartmann&Forbes.

Homepage image: “We want to be great, not great big,” says founder and chief creative office Michael Jones, encapsulating the philosophy that informs Oregon-based Hartmann&Forbes’s mission to create from seed, and by hand, sustainable, environmentally friendly window- and wallcoverings | Courtesy of Hartmann&Forbes

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By Sharon Oliver, Contributing Writer

Paying attention to the sights, sound and smells around you and stopping to appreciate the moment is one good mindful aging exercise.

REGION – Mindfulness. People are becoming more intentional, more mindful these days about what they eat, how they exercise, and other aspects of daily living. It is all for the purpose of focusing on their overall well-being and surroundings. So, how can one be mindful about aging and all that comes with it? Since aging is a process that cannot be stopped, many fear the possibilities of typical hindrances such arthritis and other physical changes in the body.

Accepting aging and its changes

Mindful aging does not mean denying getting older. Instead, it is a practice which quiets a fretful mind to focus on the actual benefits of aging. By the time most people reach their fifties, they think more about growing older and retiring. Changes in the body are noticeable, children are or are close to becoming young adults and out on their own. Some people begin to have anxiety about the future including dying alone. Other signs of worrying are feelings of loss of meaning or purpose and even a desire to keep up or compete with younger people.

As we age, there could be cognitive changes involving attention span, memory loss, and multi-tasking. Certain abilities can start a subtle decline once we reach our fifties or even forties. However, there is evidence to suggest mindfulness meditation can have a positive impact on attention, general cognition, and memory.

Aside from chronic health issues, physical changes like decreased muscle mass and loss of collagen occur as we age. Studies show that mindfulness can influence some physiological factors associated with aging. Benefits include decreased blood pressure, improved sleep, and a strengthened immune system.

There are benefits

Benefits of aging most often includes wisdom gained from life experiences, having time to pursue long-delayed interests, travel, and enjoying moments with loved ones. Goddard House, located in Brookline, is not only an assisted living facility but offers virtual mindful aging classes to help individuals cope with changes. Also, through their Creative Aging programs, Goddard House empowers older adults living in the community to remain vibrant and socially connected.

Candace Cramer, President and CEO of Goddard House, stated, “Arts are really transforming when you have a culminating event at the end of a program or workshop where people can really see what you have done.”

There are emotional benefits to mindful aging as well. Mindfulness meditation can help us to enjoy the moment, embrace ourselves and our emotional states thus developing a sense of gratitude. Growing older is inevitable, but the approach to how we grow older is a choice.

Mindful aging exercises

• Begin by motivating yourself, whether through journaling, reading daily devotions or gratitude quotes. Incorporating gratitude into a daily routine can have a positive effect on a person’s mental and physical and health.
• Join a community social group. Several offer an array of activities to include luncheons, fitness programs, language classes, art classes, various trips and so much more.
• Take time out of your day to smell the roses and soak in a little sunshine. Go on walk. Pay attention to the sights, sound and smells around you. Stop to appreciate the moment.
• Try something new.
• Surround yourself with like-minded people, those who are transitioning through similar stages of life.
  

The point is to be intentional about your focus when it comes to aging. With time, we are able to let go of things that don’t matter and hold on to what does. You’re not over the hill, just able to get a closer view of it and to quote the old adage, “you’re as young as you feel.” At the very least, you can feel as young as you allow yourself to mindfully age.

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Uncover Mental Health Counseling, founded by Kristie Tse, consists of NYC psychotherapists prioritizing inclusive, evidence-based mental health services in New York City.

New York, New York–(Newsfile Corp. – August 30, 2023) – In a world that is increasingly acknowledging the critical importance of mental health, the journey of Kristie Tse stands out as a shining example of how dedication, knowledge, and personal transformation can create a profound impact. As Uncover Mental Health Counseling celebrates its fourth anniversary, founded by the visionary New York psychotherapist Kristie Tse, the occasion not only marks a milestone in her personal journey but also serves as a powerful testament to the dismantling of societal barriers that once veiled discussions around mental health in secrecy.

Kristie’s upbringing within an immigrant Chinese family entrenched in traditional beliefs about mental health set the stage for a transformative journey that would redefine her very understanding of mental well-being. Overcoming her own mental health challenges and fueled by an unyielding desire to provide a haven for others, she took the momentous step of establishing Uncover Mental Health Counseling four years ago.

This anniversary is more than a celebration of Kristie’s individual achievements; it symbolizes a broader movement that is reshaping perspectives within her community. Her practice, fortified by a team of dedicated NYC psychotherapists, has evolved into a refuge for New Yorkers seeking guidance, solace, and healing. Kristie’s unwavering commitment to her clients’ welfare has bridged the gap between entrenched cultural norms and the profound significance of mental well-being, resulting in transformative outcomes that extend beyond the individual, touching families and communities.

In celebration of this significant achievement, Uncover Mental Health Counseling is embarking on a series of awareness campaigns in September aimed at fostering mental health education. The goal is to sustain the momentum of change that has been set in motion and to extend outreach to an even broader audience that can benefit from candid conversations and expert guidance surrounding mental well-being.

As Kristie reflects on her personal journey, she acknowledges the road ahead while maintaining an unwavering optimism about what lies in store. “Every person we help, every stigma we shatter, represents progress. This anniversary is not just a reflection of our past; it is a beacon that guides us towards a future where mental well-being takes precedence for all.”

Join Kristie and her team of New York psychotherapists at Uncover Mental Health Counseling in commemorating four impactful years dedicated to enhancing mental health. To explore their mental health services in New York City, stay updated about upcoming mental health events, and delve into the inspiring narrative that fuels their mission, visit their official website: https://uncovercounseling.com.

About Uncover Mental Health Counseling

Founded by Kristie Tse, Uncover Mental Health Counseling stands as a pioneering mental health practice that prioritizes inclusivity, cultural sensitivity, and personal growth through evidence-based treatments. Their team of New York psychotherapists is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment for individuals seeking guidance in matters of mental health. Through active community engagement and the provision of comprehensive mental health services in New York City, Uncover Mental Health Counseling continues to challenge societal norms and promote holistic well-being across the vibrant landscape of NYC.

Disclaimer: There is no offer to sell, no solicitation of an offer to buy, and no recommendation of any security or any other product or service in this article. Moreover, nothing contained in this PR should be construed as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any investment or security, or to engage in any investment strategy or transaction. It is your responsibility to determine whether any investment, investment strategy, security, or related transaction is appropriate for you based on your investment objectives, financial circumstances, and risk tolerance. Consult your business advisor, attorney, or tax advisor regarding your specific business, legal, or tax situation. For more info, please contact brandnewsproject@gmail.com.

Media Contact
Company Name: Uncover Mental Health Counseling
Contact Person: Kristie Tse
Email: info@uncovercounseling.com
Website: https://www.uncovercounseling.com

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To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/179175

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Playing a part in any Disney related film or movie is very much a dream come true for many actors. The instantaneous legacy, name recognition, and fan familiarity are all aspects that could very much cement a career in Hollywood. An actor is part of history when that happens, and it’s even more historically apparent if one was lucky enough to be in the introductory entry of a certain groundbreaking buccaneer film series, as actor Vince Lozano was in 2003’s Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl.

Stepping into the shoes of Jacoby, one of the more highlighted cursed pirates in Captain Hector Barbossa’s crew, Lozano’s character faced off against Orlando Bloom’s Will Turner not once, not twice, but three times. Starring in both big screen and small screen features for over 30 years, MovieWeb recently had a quick chat with the experienced actor about what it was like being on the ground floor of a movie series that quickly turned into an exciting worldwide phenomenon.

Pirates of the Caribbean Turns 20

Buena Vista Pictures

While there were four sequels released after 2003’s The Black Pearl (and two more rumored to be on the way) and other projects in the franchise released in other mediums (such as novels, video games, comic books, and toys), Lozano does admit that, while on set, he didn’t think a story about pirates would have longevity.

This all changed though when he saw the publicly released sneak preview for the first time with some other members of the cast. “We were having a party, a superbowl party, and they showed the trailer for the first time,” said Lozano. “We all looked at each other and went, ‘Wow, this is going to be a mega, mega, mega hit,’ we were all stunned.” He also mentioned how the surprise of seeing his character being the payoff at the end of the teaser made him even more hyped to see the movie when it was released:

The other thing — I ended up being the punchline in the trailer, so I was the last thing you saw — I was so excited and so thrilled.

As the initial question grazed over the other entries in the series, such as Dead Man’s Chest and At World’s End, there was a certain charm that the first movie brought to the stage that the other ones didn’t have in Lozano’s opinion as well. “They had one script, and they ended up splitting that into two for a second and third film.”

Being Part of a Pirate Crew

Buena Vista Pictures

As we are now 20 years away from the original cinematic introduction to Jack Sparrow, Will Turner, and Elizabeth Swann, Lozano also discussed his most memorable experiences from working on the movie. Well, not before he talked about his least favorite part, “Sitting in makeup for two and a half hours with them putting a rash on my face. That — that wasn’t a lot of fun,” said Lozano.

Thinking back to 2003, he can’t help but mention the friendships he made and some fond moments throughout production:

“Hanging out with [other] pirates, telling stories, building some camaraderie, making jokes on each other of course. Hanging out with Geoffrey Rush, talking about acting, life; same thing with Johnny Depp. Asking him, ‘How did you come up with this character? ‘He would tell me stories about how he did it, jumping into a pool, coming out cold and thinking about how British musician Keith Richards moved his body. Johnny is one of the best people you’ll ever meet.”

Being around the main cast, Lozano also notes how Orlando Bloom was already an excellent sword fighter and Knightley came to set not only with her family but her little dog, “Watching her at 17, [thinking] man, she is going to be a huge star.”

Related: Pirates of the Caribbean: A Look Back at the Black Pearl, 20 Years Later

Turning Vince Lozano Into a Skeleton

Buena Vista Pictures

A visual treat that lies within Pirates of the Caribbean is when Captain Barbossa and his crew reveal their cursed forms under the moonlight to Keira Knightley’s character, Elizabeth Swann, in one epic scene that helps make this Disney movie stand out among the rest. Having become one of these bare-boned entities, Lozano spoke about what the process was like in transforming his actual self into a hollow and terrifying skeleton:

“Basically, I had to go in and get a full body scan. We would film the scenes and then come off set. Somebody from CGI would go in with a ball camera and in a circular motion, reshoot the whole thing and piece it together later on. All that was shot in the Spruce Goose in Long Beach, they built the [Black Pearl] in there too.”

The conversation then approached Lozano’s opinion on Disney’s openness to bring Depp back now since his legal disputes are behind him. “I think he deserves another shot as Jack, but I don’t think it’s going to happen, I’m hearing a lot of stories out there. The audience is there though. I do a lot of pirate conventions and there’s such a big subculture of people that dress up like pirates, and they love Johnny.” He thinks that the House of Mouse will bring in a different pirate, and it unfortunately won’t be Jack Sparrow.

Related: Pirates of the Caribbean: 15 Iconic Jack Sparrow Quotes

Balancing Pirate Treasure and People Problems

Hex Media

In contrast to the fantastical and swashbuckling adventure of Pirates of the Caribbean, Lozano’s latest film (and Tom Sizemore’s last film), Trauma Therapy: Psychosis, centers around a group of individuals who are invited to go on an enlightening retreat, only to discover that the self-help guru’s trials are psychologically dark and horrifying. The movie very much gets in the audience’s head when it comes to intensity and disturbing visuals; Lozano said it provides a more realistic spin on mental health:

“That’s what the recruits are trying to do [in this movie], they’re trying to improve themselves in life, right? They’re seeking help. I think that’s the problem as human beings. Even though Trauma Therapy is an intense, psychological, in your face film — I think, if you need help, seek it. It’s not a sign of weakness to get help. It’s a sign of strength.”

Either being cast in a Disney movie where he plays a chaotic and care-free pirate looking to cause mischief anywhere he can or playing the role of somebody who has experienced being putty in the hands of a crazed and delusional ‘life expert,’ it seems like Frank Lozano has not let Hollywood’s possibly blinding bright lights get to him. He still balances the pirate subculture (that follows him to this day, along with all the other niche fandoms that he has covered) with the right perspectives on life, mental health, and well-being.

While Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl is available anytime for streaming through Disney+ or to rent through Prime Video and elsewhere, Trauma Center: Psychosis will be available in theaters and on various VOD platforms starting September 1st.

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Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar Sunday started the 21st day of his Jan Samvad Programme from village Jainpur Sadhan in Karnal district.

While establishing a direct dialogue with the people on this occasion, Khattar said that the BJP-led state government in its tenure of the past eight-and-a-half years so far has done double the work as compared to the ten year’s tenure of previous Congress government and that too in half budget. “We have worked without any discrimination and in a transparent manner,” he added.

Manohar Lal Khattar said that the aim of Jan Samvad Programmes is to meet people face-to-face and listen to their grievances. While referring to various initiatives started by the present state government, he said that data of every family member of the state is available with the government through Parivar Pehchan Patra (PPP).

“The biggest benefit of PPP will be to ensure that the benefits of government schemes reach the common man.” He said that the grant for development works in the village will also be released on the basis of population of the village. In future, a grant of Rs 2,000 per person will be given in the village for development works, said the Chief Minister while exhorting the sarpanches to get family IDs made for every family.

Earlier, the CM distributed tricycles to divyangjans on behalf of the Red Cross Society. He also went around the exhibition of products made by Women Self-Help Groups.

He said that self-help groups are an important step towards making women self-reliant. “Loans ranging from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 20 lakh are made available to self-help groups at an interest rate of only one percent.”

The CM added that under the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, earlier cards of 15.5 lakh families were made in the state, who could get treatment up to Rs 5 lakh in government and private hospitals. Now from August 15, while further widening the scope of this scheme, it has been decided to increase the annual income limit of families from 1.80 lakh to Rs 3 lakh. The portal for preparing cards will be opened from August 15 and it will remain open upto September 15, 2023, he further added.

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While taking a jibe at the opposition leaders without naming anyone, the CM said that some leaders say that this is a government of portals. “We also proudly say that yes this is the government of portals as with the help of IT, the amount of old age pension, compensation to farmers, crop sale money, children’s scholarship and amount of Mukhyamantri Vivah Shagun Yojana is depositing directly into the bank accounts of the beneficiaries.”

During the programme, when a woman named Lakshmi apprised the Chief Minister about her old age pension not being made, Manohar Lal Khattar said that those people who have attained the age of 60 years and their pension has not been made yet, they should go to the counter made for this purpose behind the stage and get their pension made. After some time, when the Chief Minister gave pension certificates to the beneficiaries from the same stage, it was worth seeing the glow on their faces.

During the programme, sarpanch Kavita of village Dhanaura talked about the construction of yyamshala in the village and said that she is the daughter of his village Nindana. Then the Chief Minister got up from the stage and gave Rs 500 to Kavita as shagun.

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Motorists in Oregon are expressing excitement and confusion after a 72-year ban on self-serve gasoline pumps was lifted on Friday.

Across the Beaver State, drivers took to social media to boast of pumping their own gas, while local new outlets published step-by-step instructions to help bewildered first-timers. 

The change came after Governor Tina Kotek signed a bill allowing people across the state to choose between having an attendant pump gas or doing it themselves. The law took immediate effect.

That leaves New Jersey as the only US state that prohibits motorists from pumping their own gas. A few countries also ban it, including South Africa, where attendants offer to check fluid levels and clean the windshield, and expect to be tipped.

‘Today was day one where we were allowed to pump our own gas, I was super excited to go and do this myself,’ said TikTok user @pnw.bethany in a video on Friday.

However, she was disappointed to discover that she had accidentally pulled into a ‘full service’ lane at the gas station, where attendants still do the pumping, and vowed to return to the ‘self-service’ lane for the next fill-up. 

Oregon resident Patrick Coffin fills up his car with gasoline at a gas station in Portland on Friday, after the state lifted a 72-year ban on self-service pumps

A TikTok user expressed excitement over the change, but was disappointed to discover she had accidentally pulled into a ‘full service’ lane where attendants still man the pumps

Oregon residents were divided on the change, with some expressing support, and others skepticism. 

‘It’s about time. It’s long overdue,’ said Karen Cooper, who lives in Salem, said shortly before the bill was signed.

‘I’ve spent a lot of time in California,’ Cooper said. ‘I know how to pump my own. Everybody should know how to pump their own gas.’

Kacy Willson, 32, who has lived in Oregon her whole life, said she doesn’t have much interest in pumping her own gas. She’s only tried it a few times in her life.

‘It’s kind of nice to have someone do that,’ she said at a Portland gas station Friday. ‘I don´t really leave Oregon very much, and when I do, I have to ask someone how to pump gas, and I feel weird.’

When Oregon prohibited self-service in 1951, lawmakers cited safety concerns, including motorists slipping on the slick surfaces at filling stations subject to Oregon’s notoriously rainy weather. 

In recent years legislators relaxed the rule and allowed rural counties to have self-serve gas available at night. 

Then they extended it to all hours in eastern Oregon’s sparsely populated areas, where motorists low on gas could be stranded when there’s no attendant on duty.

The COVID-19 pandemic labor shortage helped drive a renewed push to allow self-serve across the state.

‘We live in a small town in a large county and can´t find employees to pump fuel,’ Steve Rodgers, whose community is at the base of the snow-capped Cascade Mountains, complained to lawmakers. ‘We are paying top dollar and also offering insurance, paid time off and retirement benefits, and still cannot fully staff.’

A gas station attendant shows a driver how to fill up her tank at a gas station in Portland, after Gov. Tina Kotek signed a bill allowing people across the state to pump their own gas

Motorists in Oregon are expressing excitement and confusion after a 72-year ban on self-serve gas stations was lifted on Friday

Local new outlets published step-by-step instructions to help bewildered first-timers

Haseeb Shojai, who immigrated from Afghanistan in 2004 and owns gas stations in central Oregon’s high desert, also lamented the labor shortage and described how wildfires, with increased intensity and frequency due to climate change, are having a major effect. 

The state fire marshal lifted the self-serve ban during dangerous heat waves the past couple of summers.

‘Wildfires have been a factor in operating our business in the summer months, when it is hard for our gas attendants to stay for long periods outside in smoke and in heat,’ Shojai said. ‘We don’t know if we can stay open tomorrow or the next day or even next week due to the labor shortage.’

A union representing workers at grocery store fuel stations in Oregon predicted job losses and called the new law a ‘blatant cash grab for large corporations.’

‘With over 2,000 gas stations in Oregon, laying off just one employee per location represents millions of dollars a year that giant corporations are not paying in wages, benefits and public payroll taxes,’ said Sandy Humphrey, the secretary-treasurer of UFCW Local 555.

Under the new law, there can’t be more self-service pumps at a gas station than full-service ones. And prices for motorists must be the same at both types.

Gas prices in Oregon averaged $4.66 on Saturday, according to AAA, and the state has the fifth-highest gas prices among the US states.

Some residents grumbled that there would be no discount for self-service gas, questioning why they should want to pump gas themselves without a break on prices.

‘It’s bad enough we are expected to check out our own groceries now in most stores, but now gas too. We keep getting jobs we aren’t getting paid for and never applied for,’ resident Micky Garus wrote in a Facebook post. 

People shared their views on the change on social media, as well as jokes referencing the ‘gas fight’ scene from Zoolander, seen above

A man pumps his own gas Friday in Eugene. Oregon drivers can now pump their own gas for the first time since the 1950s

A customer fills up on Friday in Portland. Under the new law, there can’t be more self-service pumps at a gas station than full-service ones

Some residents grumbled that there would be no discount for self-service gas, questioning why they should want to pump gas themselves without a break on prices

Other opponents of the measure worry that it could lead to the demise of full-service pumps, depriving older adults and people with disabilities of that option.

‘I have some real concerns that we are progressively getting closer and closer to eliminating Oregon’s fuel service law entirely,’ Democratic state Sen. Lew Frederick said on the Senate floor in June before voting against the bill.

Brandon Venable, a service station manager, had urged lawmakers to reject the bill, saying some customers are careless and that attendants keep people safe.

‘I deal with many dangerous situations daily created by people smoking, leaving their engines running, getting in and out of their vehicles creating static electricity, trying to fill up random bottles and jugs, and driving off with the pump still in the vehicle,’ Venable said.

Others wonder if motorists who are now clamoring to pump their own gas might be less keen on doing so when they have to stand out in the rain, cold and snow instead of remaining in their warm, dry cars.

Republican state Sen. Tim Knopp, who leads the minority GOP caucus, downplayed safety concerns as he described being allowed to pump his own gas because he belongs to a commercial fueling cooperative.

‘I have yet to light myself on fire. I have yet to cause any problems whatsoever as it relates to self-serve gas,’ Knopp said during debate on the bill. ‘So, colleagues, let´s make New Jersey the only state in the country that has a law against self-serve gas.’

The state Senate then approved the bill on a 16-9 vote. The House earlier passed it 47-10.

New Jersey’s 1949 ban on self-service pumps remains a source of pride for some in a state where bumper stickers declare ‘Jersey Girls Don’t Pump Gas.’

Since New Jersey has lower gas prices than New York and Pennsylvania, many drivers from neighboring states cross the state line to fuel up.

In 2015, lawmakers proposed ending the New Jersey ban, but the measure died because of opposition from the powerful state Senate president.

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In a world where success stories often seem reserved for those born into privilege or armed with Ivy League college degrees, Khalil Rafati’s transformative journey from a homeless heroin addict in his youth to an upstanding entrepreneur shows an extraordinary testament to the human spirit. If you’ve ever come across the quote, “If there are no ups and downs in your life, it means you’re dead.” Khalil Rafati is the living embodiment of it.

As the author of the compelling memoirs “I Forgot to Die” and “Remembering to Live,” the founder of thriving businesses, such as SunLife Organics — which boasts a Miami Beach location, Rafati has defied the odds to become a beacon of inspiration for countless individuals seeking a better life. Rafati’s story is not one of mere redemption from drug addiction but a triumphant tale of personal growth and empowerment that resonates with people from all walks of life.

For his purpose in life, he chose to inspire others, and it’s like he says, “Most of my followers are not drug addicts. They’re just people who want a better life.” His remarkable narrative, often shared through various social media platforms and podcasts has garnered a dedicated fan base, predominantly comprised of women who find solace and motivation in his words.

But what sets Rafati apart from the typical business owner or self-help guru is his authenticity and relatability. “I’m pretty opinionated and unapologetically myself,” he says. It’s the refreshing honesty, coupled with his unconventional background, which makes his achievements all the more special. Rafati emphasizes that he doesn’t fit into the mold of someone expected to empower women, yet through a twist of fate or perhaps divine intervention, he has become a catalyst for a remarkable women-majority-led brand present in five different states with 14 locations.

On the other hand, his unique perspective on the world is unwavering. He firmly believes that women are the most integral part of the world in the future. Rafati wholeheartedly believes that men have made such a mess of the world. “I think it’s time now when women recognize their power. Stop fighting for equality and recognize their superiority. If the rest of the country was run like my company, there wouldn’t be homelessness, and there surely wouldn’t be as much violence in the inner cities,” Khalil says.

Rafati proudly shares the stories of individuals like Hali, who started working through his program at 17 and is now a corporate trainer at just 24 years old, teaching colleagues ten years her senior. This is what he believes his journey comes down to – setting an example for people to become the better version of themselves through planned self-growth and by taking action. “Education or formal credentials don’t affect personal growth; it’s people’s natural hunger to learn, evolve, and embrace new challenges,” says Khalil.

From homelessness on Skid Row to success in Hollywood as a businessman, highly sought after speaker, and bestselling author, Khalil Rafati’s journey is a testament to the power of turning your life around. Collaborating with actors and creatives, Rafati’s newest ventures include modeling for renowned brands all at the age of 53; he’s even curating a capsule collection for his favorite workout brand, and producing the documentary “Baywatch: The American Dream.”

His narrative illustrates the power of determination, self-belief, and an unwavering commitment to personal development. As Khalil Rafati reflects on two decades of sobriety, his journey reminds him that transformation knows no boundaries. It is a testament to the resilience and potential within each individual, regardless of their background or circumstances. From Ohio to Malibu to Austin, Texas, his extraordinary path reflects the limitless potential that unfolds when we dare to dream and take decisive action.

Through his unorthodox path and unapologetic authenticity, Rafati has not only reclaimed his life but has become a guiding light for others. His empowering presence reminds us that true success is not limited to the privileged few but is within reach of anyone willing to embrace their inner strength and relentlessly pursue their dreams. He says, “One day at a time, even one hour at a time, you can become the person you’ve always dreamed of becoming! If not now, then when? No excuses. Netflix, Instagram, Facebook, and other menial things can wait, but your dreams can’t and will not wait!”

McClatchy newsroom and editorial staff were not involved in the creation of this content.

Jon Stojan is a professional writer based in Wisconsin. He guides editorial teams consisting of writers across the US to help them become more skilled and diverse writers. In his free time he enjoys spending time with his wife and children.

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Longtime Maui Behavioral Health Resources CEO Jud Cunningham is retiring after nearly three decades at the helm of an organization that has grown to 200 employees with almost 8,000 clients per year under three partner agencies. — Photo courtesy Maui Behavioral Health Resources

MAKAWAO — Jud Cunningham, a longtime leader of the largest nonprofit mental health treatment provider on Maui, smiled when asked why he got into social work decades ago.

“Being a service to others,” said the soon-to-be retired chief executive officer of Maui Behavioral Health Resources on Wednesday afternoon. “I always loved and always tried to be a social change agent, that’s what social work is all about and it can occur on different levels. I always liked community service.”

Cunningham began his employment with Aloha House in the fall of 1996 and is now completing his 27th year with the organization as CEO of Maui Behavioral Health Resources, which is the umbrella for partner agencies Aloha House Inc., Malama Family Recovery Center and Maui Youth & Family Services.

Retirement will begin on Friday for Cunningham, who will miss the meaningful relationships he formed and the day-to-day responsibilities.

The board of directors hired current Chief Operating Officer Nicole Hokoana to take his place beginning July 1.

Jud Cunningham is seen in 1996, the year he began his employment with Aloha House, a nonprofit outpatient and residential addiction treatment center in Makawao. — Photo courtesy Maui Behavioral Health Resources

“It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as CEO for this great organization,” Cunningham said in a statement. “The best part has been the opportunity to work alongside so many dedicated and compassionate people, including staff, independent contractors and community partners, who genuinely care about helping others to live more fulfilling, healthy and productive lives.”

While sitting in a conference room Wednesday at Aloha House, a nonprofit outpatient and residential addiction treatment center in Makawao, Cunningham shared with The Maui News how being a licensed social worker has taken him on a path of many twists and some unexpected turns, but one thing was clear — he had “a passion for identifying needs” and then finding ways to address them.

“He was just so kind and gentle,” Dr. Lisa Ponichtera, clinical director of Maui Behavioral Health Resources, recalled of meeting Cunningham for the first time about 20 years ago.

From a volunteer at Aloha House, to a Maui Drug Court program assistant, to a counselor and then to clinical director at Malama Family Recovery Center, Ponichtera said Wednesday night via phone that “he’s just allowed me to grow.”

“He’s just really allowed me to be creative and help me in a way that taught me and allowed me to develop myself as a person, as a leader, as somebody that works in this field, and now as an administrator,” she said. “He always saw the bigger picture. … He’s just a very wise person in this field of social work.”

Cunningham has more than 50 years of experience in behavioral health and human services, including more than 40 years as an administrator of behavioral health organizations. His work took him all over the nation, including lead social work positions in the Navajo Nation, Arizona and Washington state with mental health and child welfare before coming to Maui.

Cunningham also taught in the Department of Psychology for several years at the University of Hawaii Maui College.

He has served on the boards of numerous nonprofits, such as the Maui Memorial Medical Center Ethics Committee, the Hawaii Substance Abuse Coalition, the Hawaii Job Corps Community Advisory Council and the Kahului Rotary Club.

Cunningham began his career on Maui in 1992, when he served as center chief at the Maui Community Mental Health Center. During his time there, he was able to bring to fruition the idea of community mental health systems, which was gaining popularity on the Mainland, but hadn’t gained traction in Hawaii, according to Maui Behavioral Health Resources.

While there were mental health clinics and resources in Hawaii, the idea of community mental health systems was to provide more support for seriously mentally ill individuals through case management, evaluation and stabilization centers, day treatment facilities and housing.

When Cunningham began his work with Aloha House in 1996, he and his team expanded mental health and substance use treatment services for those in need in Maui County, which was no easy feat, but “I believed in it,” he said.

Aloha House was in debt and on the verge of closing, recalled retired board member Jerry Welch, but “Jud encouraged us to stay the course and we buckled our seat belts and hung on while he started using his expertise.”

“It took awhile but gradually we got out of debt and started expanding our services to our community,” Welch said last week. “Jud put together an awesome management team and this attracted some other agencies to wish to merge with Aloha House and eventually we became MBHR.”

In 2001, Aloha House and Malama Family Recovery Center, a gender-specific substance use treatment program for women, merged through an “interlocking boards” agreement, meaning that the governance and management of both organizations would be under one organization, according to Maui Behavioral Health Resources.

In 2008, a similar agreement was reached between the boards of Aloha House and Malama Family Recovery Center, and Maui Youth & Family Services.

Through various contracts and funding sources at the county, state and federal levels, Aloha House has been able to continue to build community-based support, including services and shelter for those in crisis.

Ponichtera said the decision to join the three agencies was a “very wise decision” and a crucial move for Maui.

“I’m not sure that anyone would have done that. It was a very big decision, it was fiscally responsible and very ahead of his time,” she added. “Rather than competing, it was joining, it was unifying, and I think that created an example in the community that people might want to do themselves.”

Aloha House went from having fewer than 15 staff and only a handful of residential clients to having 200 staff and serving almost 8,000 clients per year under three partner agencies, according to the organization.

Over the years, Cunningham spotted gaps in behavioral health services and sought to fill them, such as rebuilding an outpatient treatment program for substance abuse, adding detox and drug court programs, offering treatment for inmates transitioning out of the Maui Community Correctional Center, creating substance abuse prevention education camps for youth, recruiting quality staff for the agency, collaborating for much-needed funding and more.

“There are countless success stories,” Cunningham said.

Even amid the COVID-19 pandemic, he said, “we were determined to stay open” to ensure that mental, social and behavioral health needs were met, including the clean and sober housing options that have expanded throughout Central Maui.

“I have over the years walked around the various agencies and have been amazed at how he knew everybody’s names and often a lot about their families,” Welch said of Cunningham. “Though he will be staying with us on a consulting basis I will miss his regular presence around our campuses.”

His deep-rooted care for staff and the patients was evident on Wednesday as the CEO walked the halls of the dorms on the Aloha House campus, taking time to greet people and talk story.

The branch agency’s recent goal has been chipping away at the complex behavioral health issues within the homeless populations on Maui, Cunningham noted, which has already begun with the team’s Enhanced Coordinated Care outreach group, which helps individuals connect and stay engaged with treatment.

A permit is also pending to add another dormitory on the Aloha House campus for a residential treatment program to increase its bed count from 48 to up to 60, he said.

In the future, he hopes that the agency can garner funding for workforce development and certification needs for current and new staff, as well as to increase wages so that providers can stay on Maui — which is losing qualified medical personnel due to high costs of living.

“When the community understands the value of behavioral health care, a bigger investment will be made toward training, education and employee recruitment and retention costs,” he said.

Still, Cunningham has faith in the organization moving forward.

In retirement, he will be spending more time with his family as well as continuing some of his passions, like playing golf and basketball and staying involved in the community.

“I’m extremely optimistic about the future of this organization and the reason for that is because of the new leadership that’s coming into being,” Cunningham said. “We have this incredible team of people that we’ve been able to pull together, you know, to address the various aspects of operating an organization like this.”

* Staff Writer Dakota Grossman can be reached atdgrossman@mauinews.com.

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