A full spectrum of stories.
Highlighting National Coming Out Day, a new My Why and more on today’s Up To Speed.
Full Transparency
Our editorial transparency tool uses blockchain technology to permanently log all changes made to official releases after publication. However, this post is not an official release and therefore not tracked. Visit our learn more for more information.
More of our content is being permanently logged via blockchain technology starting [10.23.2020].
On today’s Up To Speed Live, Diana shared the following updates.
Hurricane Delta
We’re monitoring Hurricane Delta as it makes landfall later this evening on the Louisiana coast. Our response teams have been hard at work making preparations to ensure that first responders and customers will be able to stay connected.
Starting today, we are offering our consumer (prepaid and postpaid) and small business customers in Louisiana who are in the direct path of the storm unlimited calling, texting and data from October 9 through October 15. Find all of the details here.
Push-to-Talk Responder
Speaking of those who run to a crisis, this week we announced Push-to-Talk (PTT) Responder, a mission-critical solution that enhances communications for first responders. PTT Responder enables users to communicate via data and voice across agencies to drive more effective collaboration and situational awareness.
Illinois 5G Innovation Hub
Verizon Business is rolling out its latest 5G Innovation Hub at the University of Illinois Research Park. Innovators can now develop and test how 5G can enhance robotics, guided vehicles, manufacturing process automation, data analytics and more. This is part of a broader strategy to partner with customers, startups, universities and large enterprises to explore how 5G can disrupt and transform nearly every industry.
Stadium news
Not only is the power of 5G headed to the New Jersey Devils and the Prudential Center, but in separate news, we’ll be working with Cisco to create a safer in-person experience at stadiums, arenas and event spaces. We will be using our combined technology to estimate wait times associated with lines at check-in, restrooms and concession stands, as well as manage crowd flow through digital signage and apps.
Hans speaks with mayors
Wednesday, Hans led a panel discussion on racial equality as part of our series with the Conference of Mayors, which included Atlanta mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms. If you missed it, the replay is available on the Verizon LinkedIn page. The next conversation on how businesses and mayors can work together to deliver more equitable health outcomes will be next Wednesday at 2 PM ET/11 AM PT.
Mental health awareness
Tomorrow is World Mental Health Day, which is a good reminder that help is available if you or someone you love is struggling. You can also check out articles on our Inside Verizon Linkedin page including lessons we can all learn from a V Teamer’s journey to sobriety.
Diana also spoke with Reginald Howard, a counselor with Black Men Heal of Philadelphia, who spoke about his transformation from attempted suicide to survivor and educator, and why it’s so hard for black men to get therapy.
National Coming Out Day
To help celebrate National Coming Out Day this Sunday, we have some great looking cards that you can post on your social media pages. They’re created by Prism, our LGBTQ+ ERG. Check out all of the details here.
We also have a story about V Teamer Deborah Fraser and her journey as a mom raising a transgender child in a conservative environment while leaning on the support of her company.
My Why: Xavier White
Let’s head across the pond to meet Xavier White, a marketing specialist from Reading in the United Kingdom. When he's not cutting his own hair or solving a Rubik's Cube in seconds, he’s squarely focused on corporate social responsibility and innovation.
Mi Historia: Chris Estrada-Ballesteros
Before Hispanic Heritage month wraps up October 15, let’s meet the man who became an immediate little brother to Diana on their first video call. Chris Estrada-Ballesteros, a Solutions Specialist in Lady Lake, FL, has so much positive energy and love of his home country, including his own Colombia-inspired clothing line, that his fellow retail V Teamers call him ‘Mr. Colombia’.
Fresh from the runway: Our military collection
Our Verizon-branded military collection is available now, benefiting charities including Mission 22, Fourblock, Semper K9, Black Veterans for Social Justice, and the Wounded Warrior Project. We’ve raised more than $50,000 so far from the sales of vests, V-necks, long-sleeve tees, camo jackets, beanies and more. For more details and to order today, visit this page.
If you have any questions, email them to live@verizon.com.
Click here for a transcript of the webcast.
Get the latest information on our Coronavirus Resource Page (Inside Verizon, The Street).
Reminder, tune in to Up To Speed Live Monday at 12 PM ET/9 AM PT.
