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Floods Strike Valencia, and Scientology Volunteer Ministers Respond with Compassion

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Floods Devastate Valencia in 2024: A Community Rises in Crisis with the Support of Volunteer Ministers and International Rescuers

Valencia, Spain – Scientology Volunteer Ministers (VMs) have coordinate over 3000 hours of volunteer work so far Valencia and the applications of volunteers keep growing, while still much more is needed. VMs in Valencia are cleaning streets, houses, garages, delivering food, clothes, and tools, all thanks to the solidarity of the Scientology network in Spain, joined by friends and relatives, and the generous support of the International Association of Scientologists, thanks to whom more volunteers are arriving to contribute in the rescue and rebuilding of “normal life” as much as possible.

On October 29, 2024, Spain faced a catastrophic hydrological disaster as a cold drop, or DANA, unleashed torrential rains across the region, particularly devastating upto 65 villages of the province of Valencia and surroundings. This isolated high-level depression, classified as a “mesoscale convective system”, resulted in staggering rainfall totals, with some areas recording over 600 liters per square meter. The AVAMET observatory in Turís (Valencia) registered a staggering 640.8 l/m², while Chiva logged 600.2 l/m², leading to the overflow of rivers and ravines along the Mediterranean coast. The aftermath has been tragic; at least 217 lives have been lost—211 in Valencia, along with casualties in Castilla-La Mancha and Andalusia—while the material damage is expected to be extensive. This event ranks among the worst hydrological disasters in Spain’s history, reminiscent of previous calamitous events such as those in Vallés and Biescas..

But as the waters raised and the challenges mounted, so too did a profound show of humanity and resilience with thousands and thousands of volunteers. Among the frontline responders that include Red Cross, Caritas, Civil Protection and others, are the Scientology Volunteer Ministers, whose vibrant yellow shirts have become synonymous with hope and support in disaster-stricken areas around the world. These volunteers have mobilized tirelessly, offering essential assistance, logistical support, and emotional solace to those whose lives have been upended.

In the face of crisis, the courage of the human spirit becomes a powerful force—and in Valencia (SPAIN), that spirit is shared and strengthened through community efforts, international aid, and dedicated volunteerism.

The Floods of Valencia: Scale of the Disaster

While the very capital seems to be physically untouched by the disaster, residential areas and businesses of circa 65 villages of the province are now unrecognizable, buried under the murky waters that continue to hinder the passing of people and cars. Media reports estimates of over 200 people dead, and thousands disappeared, and thousands more that have been forced to evacuate, many of who are now living in precarious conditions as emergency shelters reach capacity and many new improvised shelters appear thanks to the goodwill of neighboring cities and villages.

For many, the journey to safety has been fraught with obstacles. Families have been separated, elderly residents are stranded, and with roads heavily hindered, some have had no choice but to start pulling out the waters themselves from the garages and underground rooms. Yet, amid these scenes of despair, a concerted effort by local authorities, humanitarian groups, improvised volunteers and Scientology Volunteers Ministers has given the city a glimmer of hope.

The Scientology Volunteer Ministers: A History of Service

The Volunteer Ministers program, an outreach initiative by the Church of Scientology, was established in the early 1970s by Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard. Designed to provide humanitarian relief in areas of crisis, the Volunteer Ministers have served as a bridge of help and solace for decades. Their motto, as established by Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard is “Something can be done about it,” and it captures the very essence of their mission: a belief that in the face of adversity, proactive assistance can always offer a path forward.

These yellow-shirted volunteers have been present in some of the most challenging disaster scenarios worldwide, from Hurricane Katrina, earthquakes in Haiti, the 2011 Fukushima disaster, and many others, including Turkey, Morroco, Italy, Czeck Republic and many others. Equipped with both specialized training in emergency response and a compassionate ethos, the VMs have gained a reputation as dependable responders. They work in collaboration with other humanitarian groups, adapting their efforts to fit the particular needs of each crisis.

In Valencia, the VMs have been among the first to respond, coordinating their efforts with Civil Protection, local emergency services, and have provided the needed shelter and support to the internationally known Mexican rescue team of “Los Topos.” Their contributions range from distributing essential supplies—food, water, blankets, boots, clothers, heavy machinery and even toys—to providing emotional support for those grappling with the loss of homes, livelihoods, and a sense of security.

Coordinating with “Los Topos”: An International Alliance of Aid

Alongside the Scientology Volunteer Ministers, the arrival of “Los Topos” (the Moles), an elite Mexican rescue team, has bolstered relief efforts. Known for their exceptional skills in urban search and rescue, especially under collapsed buildings and rubble, Los Topos have coordinated with the VMs, regional authorities and rescue workers, to maximize the reach of their support. In Valencia, their expertise gives invaluable hope, especially in evacuating residents trapped in partially submerged structures or reaching isolated communities.

The bond between the Volunteer Ministers and Los Topos dates back years, and their shared history of disaster response has allowed them to develop a seamless working relationship. Los Topos, named for their ability to “tunnel” through debris and difficult terrain, are widely recognized for their bravery and commitment in some of the world’s most daunting rescue scenarios. In Valencia, their arrival has brought a renewed sense of hope for those still waiting to be rescued, as well as for families anxiously awaiting news of loved ones.

Stories of Resilience and Hope

In the flood-ravaged neighborhoods, survivors speak of the warmth and dedication shown by the Volunteer Ministers.

The VMs have set up coordination hub and storage place plus a relief station to receive and distributed donated materials. They are also helping coordinate spaces for those affected to rest, receive supplies, and find comfort, as well as helping improvised volunteers from around the country and the world, so that they have spaces to sleep. VMs are providing information and networking for families to learn about their options, find temporary shelter, and meet volunteers who lend a compassionate ear. Many are deeply moved by the genuine care and support they receive from the Volunteer Ministers.

“These people gave me hope when I thought there was none left,” shared one of the victims of the flooding. “They didn’t just hand me a blanket and food—they stayed and listened to me. It made all the difference.”

A United Front Against Adversity

The strength of Valencia’s response lies in its people—the local residents and international allies who stand side by side in the face of immense hardship. The Volunteer Ministers and Los Topos exemplify the powerful synergy that can emerge when individuals, communities, and humanitarian groups work together. The volunteers come from diverse backgrounds but share a common purpose: to be there for others, regardless of circumstance.

While Valencia’s road to recovery will be a long one, the support pouring in from all corners of the world is a reminder of our collective humanity. And as the city confronts the daunting task of rebuilding, it does so with the knowledge that it is not alone.

Looking Ahead: Rebuilding with Hope

As mud and water slowly recede, the focus shifts from rescue to rebuilding. The Volunteer Ministers have pledged to stay in Valencia for as long as they are needed, committing not only to immediate disaster relief but also to long-term recovery efforts. Their presence will be instrumental as residents return to salvage their homes and attempt to rebuild their lives.

For now, in the midst of uncertainty, there is hope. It’s a hope carried by each volunteer who extends a hand, each rescuer who pulls someone from danger, and each community member who remains steadfast. The people of Valencia are not facing this disaster alone—they are bolstered by a global network of compassion, resilience, and unwavering support.

Media Contact

Organization: European Office Church of Scientology for Public Affairs and Human Rights

Contact Person: Ivan Arjona

Website: https://www.europeanaffairs.eu

Email: Send Email

Address: Boulevard de Waterloo 103

City: Brussels

State: Brussels

Country: Belgium

Release Id: 07112419582

The post Floods Strike Valencia, and Scientology Volunteer Ministers Respond with Compassion appeared on King Newswire. It is provided by a third-party content provider. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it.

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Press Release

Gamerge Officially Launches: Revolutionizing Play-to-Earn Gaming in the Web3 Era!

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Gamerge, an innovative Play-to-Earn (P2E) GameFi platform, proudly announces it’s official launch on December 15th 2024. This cutting-edge platform is designed to revolutionize the gaming industry by merging entertainment with real-time cryptocurrency earnings, offering a transparent and user-focused ecosystem in the Web3 era.

Gamerge introduces a platform that puts players first, enabling them to earn real crypto rewards through immersive and competitive gameplay. By offering a transparent and trusted environment, Gamerge empowers users to monetize their gaming skills in exciting new ways. Players can participate in Versus matches and Tournaments to unlock higher reward potential while enjoying a seamless and engaging experience.

At the heart of the platform lies the Gamerge Token (GMG), supported by a unique 100% token-burning mechanism. This deflationary model ensures long-term value for token holders, setting Gamerge apart in the rapidly growing GameFi space. In a move to enhance accessibility, Gamerge is also available as a mini app on Telegram under the name @Gamerge_bot. This integration makes it incredibly simple for players to access the platform and start earning on the go, expanding its reach to Telegram’s global user base.

Gamerge leverages advanced blockchain technology to support multi-chain functionality and allow earnings in multiple cryptocurrencies. This flexibility ensures inclusivity and accessibility for gamers across diverse ecosystems, making it easier than ever to participate in Web3 gaming.

Community engagement is a cornerstone of Gamerge’s mission. The platform features an innovative Refer & Earn program, which rewards users for introducing new players to the ecosystem. This initiative fosters loyalty and growth within the Gamerge community, ensuring an interconnected and vibrant player base.

Gamerge is making a significant impact by collaborating with leading giants in the gaming and crypto industries, paving the way for exclusive opportunities and rewards for its users. These strategic partnerships highlight Gamerge’s commitment to innovation and its position as a trailblazer in the GameFi domain.

Explore the next generation of gaming and start earning real crypto today. Visit http://gamerge.ai/ to learn more.

About Gamerge

Gamerge is a user-centric Play-to-Earn GameFi platform designed to create a transparent and trusted gaming ecosystem. With unique tokenomics, multi-chain support, and a focus on community engagement, Gamerge is redefining the gaming landscape in the Web3 space.

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Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.

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Press Release

2024 International Short Video Competition Breaks New Ground in Global Audio-Visual Communication

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The 2024 International Short Video Competition has successfully concluded its call for submissions. As of November 30, a total of 4,452 works were submitted, with creators from 60% of the countries and regions worldwide. The total exposure of related topics across the internet has surpassed 1.5 billion views.

This year’s competition featured a series of promotional activities reaching international campuses across the globe, with efforts expanding into markets in Asia, Europe, North America, and other regions. These activities have greatly enhanced the international exchange and cooperation in the film and television industry, significantly boosting global audio-visual influence. Notable progress was made in international communication and overseas promotion, with three key achievements standing out:

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Firstly, a diversified international communication channel has been established. By inviting individual creators, bilingual bloggers, domestic and international audiovisual production and broadcasting institutions, film and media schools, as well as renowned influencers and talent agencies from around the world, the competition has attracted creative talents from various fields and levels. This includes significant participation from overseas universities, international students, and others, effectively capturing the attention and influence of the youth demographic. As a result, a large number of works with diverse formats and topics have been collected.

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Secondly, a comprehensive cultural exchange platform has been established. Relying on international campus promotional activities, the competition has provided overseas students and foreign youth with opportunities to gain a deeper understanding of both Chinese and foreign cultures and international exchanges, thus sparking their creative inspiration. During the promotional events at KyungHee University, Rangsit University, and the University of Barcelona, students expressed strong interest in the overseas competition themes. Many of them stated that they would create works in creative formats such as Vlogs, animations, and documentaries. This promotional opportunity has also ensured the quality of the competition submissions.

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Thirdly, an efficient overseas communication model has been expanded. By fully leveraging the experience gained from organizing the competition, the influence of various platforms has been activated. Through showcasing stories of Sino-foreign friendship, cultural differences, and win-win cooperation opportunities, as well as the concept of a shared human destiny from a Z perspective, the competition has established a distinctive international audio-visual brand image using abundant overseas resources. Prior to the promotional events, the release of information about the overseas competition attracted the attention of international creators and subscribers, creating a favorable atmosphere for offline promotional activities. From “cloud” to reality, the progressive promotion of Sino-foreign audio-visual works’ international communication has facilitated cultural exchange through enjoyable audio-visual experiences.

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The international campuses have brought together students from different countries and regions, inspiring each other through their creative work and fostering a deeper understanding and respect for different cultures. By participating in and promoting the competition, students are able to further develop their short video creation skills, cross-cultural communication abilities, and awareness of international communication. With the perspective and creativity of international students, the competition has unearthed a batch of short video works that are more in tune with international audiences and easier to understand and accept. These works effectively showcase the charm of Sino-foreign cultures and the achievements of social development, enhancing the competition’s international appeal and influence.

In addition to reaching universities in South Korea, Thailand, Spain, and Russia, the international youth exchange roadshow is still ongoing. Although the submission phase has ended, the journey of Sino-foreign cultural exchange continues. With innovative communication formats and strengthened cultural identity, the 2024 International Short Video Competition is still on the way!

Media Contact

Company Name: Shandong Running Shell Culture Media Co., Ltd.

Contact Person: Sun Ke

State: Shandong Province

Country: China

Website: https://isvc2024.e.cn.vc/Registration

Email: sunke@gufumedia.com

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Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.

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Marcella Named America’s 7th Fastest-Growing Fashion Brand By The 2024 Inc. 5000

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Ranking On The List For The Third Straight Year, Marcella Ranks No. 577, Overall, Among The U.S.’ Fastest-Growing Private Companies.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK, United States, 27th Dec 2024, Marcella, a mission-driven, ethical and sustainable designer fashion brand, has been ranked as the 7th fastest-growing fashion brand in the U.S. on the recently announced 2024 Inc. 5000 list, the most prestigious data-driven ranking of America’s fastest-growing private companies. Achieving 780% growth from 2020 to 2023 with minimal outside investor capital, Marcella also ranked on the list as America’s 44th fastest-growing consumer products company and as America’s 577th fastest-growing company, overall. Moreover, Marcella ranked as the fastest-growing retailer in New England (where it is headquartered) for the past three years.

Founded by husband-and-wife duo Siyana and Andy Huszar, Marcella’s “minimalism with an edge” clothing, shoes and accessories are designed in New York and handcrafted in Europe. Core to the brand’s DNA is a commitment to advancing women and girls across the brand’s every aspect (design, production approach, sustainability, and social impact).

“Being ranked as America’s 7th fastest-growing fashion company is a testament to our incredible team and the uncompromising passion we bring daily to revolutionizing fashion for the benefit of women and girls globally,” said Siyana Huszar, Co-founder and Chief Creative Officer of Marcella.

Marcella takes a holistic approach to sustainability that not only drives its mission but its profitability. The brand’s innovative “just-in-time” production model minimizes the global fashion industry’s typical inventory waste, enabling Marcella to sell over 90% of what it makes at or near full price and dramatically reducing the company’s ecological footprint. This efficiency results in exceptional capital savings and enables Marcella to be ethical, sustainable and socially impactful in its approach. Its original, designer essentials have a superior price-to-quality ratio. Every individual involved in the production of any Marcella piece enjoys a truly living wage, generous benefits and free health care. And, for every order Marcella sells, the company supports three days of school for a marginalized girl around the world in partnership with CAMFED, the celebrated global NGO revolutionizing how girls’ education is delivered.

“To think that Marcella has been able to profitably achieve such ongoing growth while mainly bootstrapping is humbling,” added Andy Huszar, Co-founder and CEO of Marcella. “We’re honoured to be recognized by the Inc. 5000 for the third straight year and excited to continue delivering ethical, sustainable and socially impactful fashion within reach.”

The Inc. 5000 class of 2024 represents companies that have driven rapid revenue growth while navigating inflationary pressure, the rising costs of capital, and seemingly intractable hiring challenges. “Congratulations to this year’s honorees for growing their businesses fast despite the economic disruption we all faced over the past three years,” commented Mike Hofman, Inc. editor-in-chief.

About Marcella

Marcella is a mission-driven, omnichannel women’s fashion brand offering designer essentials within reach. NYC designed and European handcrafted from locally sourced fabrics and trims, Marcella fashions itself as ethical, sustainable and socially impactful, where every major facet of the company’s operation benefits one central mission: advancing women and girls globally. At the heart of this approach is a partnership with CAMFED, the celebrated global NGO revolutionizing how girls’ education is delivered. Since 2021, Marcella has supported over 910,000 school days for needy girls.

Contact: andy@marcellanyc.com

Website: www.marcellanyc.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/marcellanyc

More about the Inc. 5000

Based on financial data analysis, the 2024 Inc. 5000 ranked companies according to percentage revenue growth from 2020 to 2023. To qualify, companies must have been generating revenue by March 31, 2020. They must be U.S.-based, privately held, for-profit, and independent—not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies—as of December 31, 2023. The entire Inc. 5000 can be found at  http://www.inc.com/inc5000.

Media Contact

Organization: Marcella

Contact
Person:
Andy Huszar

Website:

https://www.marcellanyc.com/

Email:

andy@marcellanyc.com

Contact Number: 16468605689

City: NEW YORK

State: NEW YORK

Country:United States

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Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.

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