Simon Lichter appointed head of CT Technology Council 

HARTFORD – Simon Lichter of Hartford has been named executive director of the  Connecticut Technology Council (CTC). The CTC goal is to strengthen Connecticut’s tech ecosystem making it easier for businesses in a variety of industries to thrive.

A native of West Hartford, previously Lichter was president of Left Lane Marketing in Brookline, Mass.

He attended the Bess and Paul Sigel Hebrew Academy and the Hebrew High School of New England (now the New England Jewish Academy). He earned a degree in advertising and marketing communication  and an MBA in general business from Johnson & Wales University in Providence, R.I.

JScreen marks National Cancer Prevention Month

JScreen, a national non-profit public health initiative dedicated to preventing genetic diseases, has announced its participation in National Cancer Prevention Month in February of 2022. 

JScreen is focused on raising awareness about hereditary cancers and works in association with Emory University’s Department of Human Genetics to make cancer genetic testing affordable and accessible. To do this, JScreen offers its CancerGEN test: an at-home saliva test that screens for genetic risks for many types of cancer. The mission of JScreen is to ensure healthy futures through genetic testing and education, and it will be stepping up that mission this February.

CancerGEN, JScreen’s cancer genetic test, analyzes more than 60 cancer susceptibility genes associated with hereditary risks for breast, ovarian, prostate, colorectal, skin, and many other cancers. If a person tests positive, they are able to take action for the prevention or early detection of associated cancers. Thus, Screen’s cutting-edge genetic testing technology, education, and genetic counseling services, help minimize the incidence of hereditary cancers.

“We understand the financial challenges and accessibility issues facing many Americans,” says Hillary Regelman, director of national outreach and marketing at JScreen. “We know from statistics that half of all men and a third of all women will develop cancer at some point in their lives. We are working toward a future where those numbers aren’t quite so staggering, and that starts with awareness and eliminating barriers to genetic testing.”

To receive JScreen’s at-home test, one simply has to sign up online. The person will then provide a saliva sample and use the pre-paid postage to mail it in. JScreen’s tests use state-of-the-art genetic sequencing technology to ensure highly accurate results. The robust cancer testing panel includes genes that are actionable, meaning something can be done to help prevent cancer if a person tests positive. JScreen provides results in three weeks or less. A unique feature of JScreen’s process is that it provides access to licensed genetic counselors who provide consults to ensure that people understand their results.

In addition to their CancerGEN test, JScreen offers ReproGEN, a reproductive carrier screening test that gives prospective parents information about the risk of genetic diseases in their future children so they can plan for the health of their families. 

With insurance, CancerGEN costs $199 and ReproGEN costs $149, and genetic counseling is included. JScreen offers need-based financial assistance for qualifying individuals.

CancerGEN costs $199 and ReproGEN costs $149, and genetic counseling is included. JScreen offers need-based financial assistance for qualifying individuals.

New Haven & Hartford Federations plan community mission to Israel

The Hartford and New Haven Federations have announced a community mission to Israel to celebrate the 75th birthday of the Jewish state. Designed for adults and families with children ages 10 and up,“Israel 2023: Chose Your Own Adventure” offers participants a choice between from 5 different tracks: first-time visitors to Israel; geopolitics of the Middle East; arts & culture; food & wine; technology and innovation. 

Details and registration will be announced soon. For information, contact Leslie Iarusso (Hartford) liarusso@jewishhartford.org; or Robyn Teplitzky (New Hafen rteplitzky@jewishnewhaen.org.