Sunday, June 30, 2002

Olympic Gold Medalists Cullen Jones and Erin Popovich to Keynote NRPA’s National Aquatic Conference & Exposition

Olympic Gold Medalists Cullen Jones and Erin Popovich to Keynote NRPA’s National Aquatic Conference & Exposition

The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) and Aquatics International will present the National Aquatic Conference & Exposition (NAC), Feb. 16-19, 2011, at the Bahia Resort Hotel in San Diego, Calif.

Ashburn, Va. (Vocus/PRWEB) January 24, 2011

The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) and Aquatics International will present the National Aquatic Conference & Exposition (NAC), Feb. 16-19, 2011, at the Bahia Resort Hotel in San Diego, Calif.

Keynoting the Opening General Session on Thursday, Feb. 17, is Cullen Jones—a member of the Gold Medal-winning men’s 4x100-meter freestyle relay team at the Beijing 2008 Summer Olympics, and the first African American to hold a long-course meters swimming world record. Jones will discuss drowning prevention and seeks to ensure that more children learn to swim, especially in underserved urban communities.

During the Closing Luncheon on Saturday, Feb. 19, three-time U. S. Paralympic swimmer and 14-time Gold Medalist Erin Popovich will speak on her life experience as a person with a disability and how she became one of the greatest athletes in the history of the United States Olympic Committee by utilizing local community programs.

NAC is the premiere educational event for aquatics professionals in the U. S., providing four days of peer-reviewed educational programming, a trade show, and networking events for professionals in all areas of aquatics and aquatic recreation.

NAC educational sessions include: Staff Training and Management; Programming, Special Events and Marketing; Technical, Maintenance, Operation and Design; Beaches, Water Parks, Liability and Safety; and Professional Development and Leadership Skills. Attendees will have the opportunity to network on the water on Feb. 18, during a Boat Cruise Evening Social on the William D. Evans, a “Turn of the century,” Mississippi-style sternwheeler.

Also taking place in conjunction with NAC are specialized sessions of the National Aquatic Management School (NAMS), a three-year blended-learning (online and classroom) program designed to progressively educate aquatic professionals in the pool, waterpark and beach industries. NAMS faculty include some of the industry’s foremost experts in aquatic management.

For extensive information about NAC and NAMS, go to http://www. NRPA. org/nac.

Members of the accredited press are invited to attend. Media inquiries can be directed to Amy Kapp, communications manager, at 703.858.2151 or akapp(at)nrpa(dot)org.

The National Recreation and Park Association is a national not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing park, recreation and conservation efforts that enhance quality of life for all people. Through its network of 20,000 recreation and park professionals and citizens, NRPA encourages the promotion of healthy lifestyles, recreation initiatives, and conservation of natural and cultural resources. For more information, visit http://www. nrpa. org.

For digital access to NRPA’s flagship publication, Parks & Recreation, visit http://www. parksandrec-magazine. org.

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Friday, June 28, 2002

Ivera Medical Corporation Sues Amsino International For Its Manufacturing of Hospira's EffectIV™ Disinfecting Cap

Ivera Medical Corporation Sues Amsino International For Its Manufacturing of Hospira's EffectIV™ Disinfecting Cap

Ivera Medical Corporation, a San Diego (CA) based medical device company, today announced it has filed a complaint against Amsino International, Inc., a Chinese manufacturer of medical devices with a U. S. office in Pomona, CA. The complaint includes claims for theft of trade secrets and breach of contract. .

San Diego, CA (PRWEB) November 17, 2009

Ivera Medical Corporation (http://www. iveramed. com/), a San Diego (CA) based medical device company, today announced it has filed a complaint against Amsino International, Inc., a Chinese manufacturer of medical devices with a U. S. office in Pomona, CA. The complaint includes claims for theft of trade secrets and breach of contract. Other claims and defendants may be added as the case progresses.

Ivera's complaint alleges that Amsino misappropriated Ivera's trade secrets relating to the design of a disinfecting cap (http://www. iveramed. com/), both by disclosing those trade secrets to a third-party and by using Ivera's trade secrets to develop its own disinfecting cap.

Amsino is the manufacturer of the EffectIV Disinfecting Cap a product marketed exclusively by Hospira, Inc. Lake Forest, IL. Ivera intends to seek a preliminary injunction halting Amsino's ability to manufacture and distribute the EffectIV Disinfecting Cap.

"This action should signal to the market that Ivera will vigorously defend its intellectual property," Bob Rogers, Chief Executive Officer of Ivera Medical said, in making the announcement. "We have worked hard to develop the best disinfecting cap technology for our Curos® Port Protector (http://www. iveramed. com/), and we will not stand by and let others improperly exploit our ideas."

The Curos® Port Protector, the Company's flagship product, is a disinfection device (http://www. iveramed. com/) designed to cover, clean and protect needleless access valves aiding in the efforts to reduce bloodstream infections (http://www. iveramed. com/). Its innovative design provides for ease of use, minimal alcohol spillage and packaging waste and its highly visible green color aids in compliance confirmation and is being associated in the industry with the slogan 'Green is Clean'.

Reference: Case Number BC424826- LA County Superior Court

About Ivera Medical Corporation:
Ivera Medical develops, manufactures and markets innovative medical devices to improve healthcare providers' management and control of patient infections. Curos®, manufactured in Carlsbad, CA, is the first disinfecting cap to be marketed in the U. S. and has received FDA's 510(k) market clearance. For more information about Curos and Ivera Medical, visit the website at www. iveramed. com

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56-Year Old Woman Completes Marathons on Seven Continents in 141 Days

56-Year Old Woman Completes Marathons on Seven Continents in 141 Days

Marathoner Jeanne Stawiecki now has her sights set on Mt. Everest.

Charlton, MA (PRWEB) March 7, 2007

On February 26, 2007, Jeanne Stawiecki completed the Antarctica Marathon unofficially breaking the world record, completing marathons (http://www. sevenin2007.com/) on seven continents in 141 days. This breaks the previously set record by 68 days. In March, she sets her sights on Mt. Everest (http://www. sevenin2007.com/). If successful, it is believed she will become the first woman in the world to summit the highest peak and complete a marathon on each of the seven continents. At age 56, she may well also be the oldest woman to reach the seven summits.

Jeanne completed the marathon (http://www. sevenin2007.com/) in 5:22:08, placing sixth out of all female runners and first in her age group. The winning female completed the course in 4:54:50. The course on King George Island off the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula is particularly challenging. It loops through the scientific research bases of Uruguay, Chile, China and Russia, brings runners across streams and huge mud flats and up a large glacier twice. Runners also faced temperatures of 15 degrees F., snow, and gusts of wind to 40 miles an hour.

About Jeanne Stawiecki
Optimistic despite several health issues that set back her schedule, Jeanne leaves on March 29 for Mt. Everest (http://www. sevenin2007.com/) to complete her quest to become the first woman in the world to run a marathon and summit the highest peak on seven continents -- an endeavor she is financing herself through hard work and determination.

Jeanne Stawiecki, one of five children, grew up in the Massachusetts factory town of Webster, MA. At age 16 1/2 she got a job in a shoe factory working as the mail girl. Wanting more out of life, Jeanne worked to put herself through nursing school, where she was told to take up smoking to relieve stress. A self-described former 2 pack a day smoker and a poor performer in sports for as long as she can remember, Jeanne did not begin exercising seriously until she turned 44. After deciding to give up smoking for financial reasons, Jeanne started exercising to prevent weight gain. At first, Jeanne could only walk -- and not very fast without getting winded. Gradually she began to run part of the route and, later, the entire route. Distance running became a way for Jeanne to relieve stress, but after a number of years, she became bored with running. Jeanne took up climbing in her 50's at a colleague's suggestion. At age 50 she took her first trip out of the country, a trek in the Himalayas. It was this trip that sparked her interest in the Himalayas. Having made the decision in middle age to turn her life around, today Jeanne is the vision of health and athleticism.

Contacts:

Heather Conover
Hconover-at-conoverandcompany. com

Paula Green
Pgreen-at-conoverandcompany. com

866-411-7321

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Making Business Decisions in an Election Year

Making Business Decisions in an Election Year

Regardless of Election Outcomes, Business Owners Can Deploy Tactics That Work to Their Advantage

Riverwoods, IL (PRWEB) November 21, 2008

www. toolkit. com] - While Americans receive a new president and some states await the outcome of senate elections, business owners can deploy business tactics that work to their advantage, during this confusing and rigorous election year.

Barbara Weltman, co-author of the Small Business Survival Book and a leading authority on tax, law and finance for small business, says, "It's important for business owners to remain aware of the political environment and translate the implications of what they observe into business tactics." Based on recent events, Weltman has helped identify a number of business tactics that business owners should be pursuing during this election year -- independent of any candidates they favor.

Use tax credits. The Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 includes a variety of tax deductions that can affect small businesses -- but some need to be acted on by business owners by the end of the 2008 calendar year. One of the most notable contributions to small business owners is extension of federal research and experimentation (R&D) tax credit for 2008 and 2009.

Pay on time. The single most important factor when it comes to business credit, according to Weltman, is paying bills on time. As needed, business owners should utilize automated payments, negotiated terms and overdraft protection to ensure payments occur on time.

Build a strong balance sheet. Weltman says, "Business owners need to retain cash, write off bad receivables, manage their inventory effectively and consider leasing options to retain more cash. Re-examine the credit terms that a company extends to customers and see if it can be tightened for an advantage."

Avoid lawsuits. Business owners need to assess their risks and make sure they carry adequate insurance for their business. They need to provide a safe work environment and work with lawyers, if necessary, to prevent judgments or liens that affect credit negatively. Companies should use a third-party registered agent (http://www. bizfilings. com/products/ragent. asp) to ensure that they are informed of pending legal actions and remain compliant with state requirements.

Incorporate your business. For business owners, personal liability protection is more important now than ever. Since most businesses use a calendar year for accounting, form an LLC (http://www. bizfilings. com/products/llc. asp) or incorporate your business (http://www. bizfilings. com/products/incorporate. asp) so that it takes effect on 1/1/2009. This ensures businesses will be prepared for 2009 and avoid additional costs and tax filings they would incur by making the change now. Companies like incorporation services (http://www. bizfilings. com/) leader BizFilings can take businesses information now and make the change effective on January 1, 2009 -- so they don't have to stand in line for the change themselves.

Be vocal. It's important for business owners to be involved, not just aware of political events at the local, state and federal level. If they don't take the time to learn about state and federal candidates directly, consider funding groups that lobby for small business interests such as the National Federation of Independent Business or the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council.

"The presidential elect along with the newly elected state and local leaders will be constrained by fiscal realities. This means that many of the concerns of business owners (taxes, healthcare, and regulation) won't be addressed immediately by government." said Troy Janisch, publisher of Business Owner's Toolkit. "By deploying these tactics, business owners can create positive outcomes for their business that aren't solely dependent on election results."

About Business Owner's Toolkit
Business Owner's Toolkit (www. toolkit. com) provides total know-how for small business. The Toolkit website helps business owners start, run, and grow a successful small business by providing more than 5,000 pages of free step-by-step advice, instruction, and ready-to-use business templates. The site also offers free business webinars, business news and one-to-one advice to business owners by email. The Business Owner's Toolkit also partners with StartupNation to provide free entrepreneurial advice via a national syndicated radio show.

The Business Owner's Toolkit is a part of Wolters Kluwer, a leading multinational publisher and information services company. Wolters Kluwer has annual revenues (2007) of €3.4 billion, maintains operations in over 33 countries across Europe, North America, and Asia Pacific and employs approximately 19,500 people worldwide.

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Thursday, June 27, 2002

Gas Prices Burning Up Your Bank Account? Discover EnviroMax Plus A Product That Will Increase Your Mileage By Up To 35% and Reduce Your Emmissions By Up To 80%

Gas Prices Burning Up Your Bank Account? Discover EnviroMax Plus A Product That Will Increase Your Mileage By Up To 35% and Reduce Your Emmissions By Up To 80%

Scientist are calling EnviroMax Plus the greatest Automotive Discovery of our time. Developed nine years ago for the clean air act, it is approved by EPA and has a US Patent. Works on gas or diesel engines. Johnny Rutherford, three time Indy 500 winner endorses the new fuel saver.

Landis, NC (PRWEB) September 8, 2005

Are you feed up with spending from $50 to $100. a week at the gas pumps? The new EnviroMax Plus fuel catalyst works. Most drivers see increases from 15 to 25 percent with some reporting up to 35% increases in fuel mileage. Just in the last two weeks I have seen gas prices jump one dollar a gallon. Just how much can you take when you have a product that will give you back $3 for every $1 you spend on EnviroMax Plus. But you can only get this product online. Web address is in the Report.

You are the only one that can take action to help your own lifestyle. Wake up and keep up with what is going on around you. Help be part of the Solution not Part of the Problem. Go online and order at no charge this Report " How To Keep From Being Robbed At The Gas Pumps". www. SickOfGasPrices. com

Did you know that everyday you use your car or truck you are releasing poisons into the air. Just one tractor-trailer truck releases 2,500 lbs of carbon particles into the air each year. These poisons are destroying our environment, and out health. Research on this pollution problem is well established. Pollutants coming from cars and trucks are responsible for lung disease, lung cancer and asthma.

New research has shown that the poisons coming from our cars and trucks are responsible for increases in many types of other forms of Cancers, Heart disease, and even Alzheimer's disease. These diseases are already happening to someone you care about, maybe even someone in your family. The problem is getting worse not better. We are leaving a catastrophic problem for our children and for future generations.

We encourage you to join us in our vital mission. Our own health, our bank accounts, our children's health and our future generation's health and well being depends on it. By joining us in this vital mission, you will save money, and you will do your part to stop the catastrophic poisoning of our planet.

This report will also tell you how to get your hands on this amazing product. Just go to:

Www. SickOfGasPrices. com. This no charge report is a must have...In fact your financial survival may depend on it! Do your part to keep America strong.

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Article Niche Directory a Resource for Publishers and Webmasters

Article Niche Directory a Resource for Publishers and Webmasters

Article Niche Directory (www. article-niche. com) offers a comprehensive collection of free-to-use articles in the launch of this new service. The potential use of this service will allow a variety of online needs to be met in a singular online content database.

New York, NY (PRWEB) September 4, 2008

To meet the growing demand for compelling content Dr. Jay Stockman today announced the launch of Article Niche Directory (www. article-niche. com). This free article directory explores dozens of topics with hundreds of articles available for use by website owners and webmasters.

Stockman has developed multiple websites and indicates, "There never seems to be enough new content to go around. I envision Article Niche as a way to help fill the gap for site owners that could use a little more exposure or who simply want to maintain the edge they've already worked hard to create."

In defining the need for this service Stockman declared, "Article Niche Directory serves as a provider of unique, human edited articles for Education Journals, Newsletters, websites, researchers, webmasters and publishers."

With his own varied background Stockman has contributed extensively to the knowledge base found at Article Niche Directory (www. article-niche. com), however, he is joined by a growing list of writers who have expertise in many differing fields.

Some key topics that can be freely utilized by guests include:

Affiliate Programs
Automotive
Business
Computers
ECommerce
Education
Environment
Fitness
Food
Gardening
Health
Investment
Politics
Science
Sports
Technology
Web Design

Webmasters and site owners are encouraged to use the material on Article Niche Directory to further their own business objectives. Stockman concludes, "The use of our free articles is a no-cost way to maintain optimum interest in an existing website. The use of Article Niche Directory provides one of the best ways to eliminate content costs while ensuring the most favorable site rankings and positive user experience possible."

For additional information, contact:

Dr. Jay Stockman
Article Niche Directory
Telephone: 212-213-3737
Fax: 212-213-8756
Email: editor @ article-niche. com
Web address: http://article-niche. com/ (http://article-niche. com/)

Article Niche Directory was founded as a means of linking content providers with webmasters and site owners. This relationship assists writers by providing a linkable bio with their articles while allowing site owners free access to an extensive database of existing articles for use in a variety of online applications. Article Niche Directory is based in New York, NY.

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Tuesday, June 25, 2002

Exosect And Boyut FT Ltd Join Forces Against Stored Product Pests

Exosect And Boyut FT Ltd Join Forces Against Stored Product Pests

Exosect, a leading provider of environmentally conscious insect pest control, today announced that it will be working in partnership with Boyut FT Ltd, a leading importer and distributor of agrochemicals and bio control products to develop Exosect’s innovative Exosex Auto-Confusion system designed to control the population of stored product moths, in warehouses across Turkey.

(PRWEB) July 7, 2006

Exosect, a leading provider of environmentally conscious insect pest control, today announced that it will be working in partnership with Boyut FT Ltd, a leading importer and distributor of agrochemicals and bio control products to develop Exosect’s innovative Exosex Auto-Confusion system designed to control the population of stored product moths, in warehouses across Turkey.

Head-quartered in Istanbul, Turkey, Boyut FT Ltd specialises in the importing, distribution and registration of agrochemical and bio control technologies. By using a well-established network of distributors, Boyut FT Ltd has been able to position itself as a key player in the Turkish market.

Exosect will commence work with Boyut FT Ltd using the Exosex SPL Auto-Confusion system in stored products, concentrating specifically on the Indian Meal Moth, which is a particular problem in sultanas. One female can lay up to 400 eggs after mating with up to five generations per year in some locations. The life cycle depends on temperature, taking two to six months in temperate zones and three to four weeks in warm climates. The larvae spin silken threads as they feed and crawl, joining food particles together causing damage to crop depicted by unsightly webbing, cast skins and frass (faecal pellets).

“Having established our position within the Turkish market, we now have the scope to direct our focus towards such innovative and novel approaches to pest control like Exosex SPL.” States Evren Bulay, Managing Director of Boyut FT Ltd. He continues, “The Indian Meal Moth is a major pest of stored products, and is one of the main species affecting stored sultanas. Turkey is one of the worlds largest producer and exporter of Sultana’s and this industry is constantly looking for effective alternatives to control this pest, Exosect’s Exosex system provides a unique delivery method that can be used as part of a successful Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programme.”

Exosex SPL uses a synthetic female sexual pheromone to attract males into a dispenser where electrostatic Entostat powder, also combined with the pheromone, is stored. The powder adheres to the males and a state of ‘Auto-Confusion’ results -- their sensors are overwhelmed, they cannot detect females, they act as a false sexual lure for other males, the mating cycle breaks down and the pest population crashes.

Martin Brown, Managing Director at Exosect comments, “Boyut FT Ltd has extensive knowledge in the registration and marketing of new technologies in this market. We are delighted to be working in conjunction with them. The Exosex system has proven to be very effective in other storage situations such as tobacco, cereal and confectionary and we hope that with their help the Exosex SPL system will become a success in this market.”

About Exosect

Exosect Limited was formed in 2001 to commercialise patented innovative pest control technology. Focussing primarily on R&D, Exosect has developed a range of delivery systems based on the concept of attractants and active ingredients, including biologicals, formulated with patented powder carrier systems. Specialising in IPM based, environmentally acceptable pest control products, markets include crop protection (agriculture and horticulture), stored product, amenity landscape and public health. More on Exosect: www. exosect. com

Editor’s Notes

Further information on Exosect – including interviews, demonstrations, users’ stories and site visits – is available from:

Lynsey Thorp / Spencer Butt

Exosect Press Office at MCC International Ltd

Tel: 01962 888 100 / Fax: 01962 888 125

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Monday, June 24, 2002

Online Nursing Programs Serve Escalating Demand for Nurses

Online Nursing Programs Serve Escalating Demand for Nurses

ELearners. com Offers Guide to Online Nursing Degrees: Online education is proving to be part of the healing process for the accelerating nursing shortage, according to recent information from eLearners. com, a web resource of EducationDynamics that connects prospective students with online learning providers. According to eLeaners. com, nursing subjects are the second most searched programs on the site behind business degrees among the more than one million unique visitors to the site each month.

Hoboken, NJ (PRWEB) April 9, 2008

Online education is proving to be part of the healing process for the accelerating nursing shortage, according to recent information from eLearners. com, a web resource of EducationDynamics that connects prospective students with online learning providers. According to eLeaners. com, nursing subjects are the second most searched programs on the site behind business degrees among the more than one million unique visitors to the site each month. To answer this demand, eLearners. com offers a Guide to Online Nursing Degrees (http://www. elearners. com/online-degrees/nursing. htm).

"The growth in demand for online nursing programs (http://www. elearners. com/online-degrees/nursing. htm) comes as no surprise given the data," said Terrence Thomas, Chief Marketing Officer for eLearners. com. "But, what is surprising is the number of prospective nursing students that are turning to online education to achieve their nursing career goals."

As the baby boomer population continues to age, the healthcare industry is feeling the pinch. According to a March 2008 report "The Future of the Nursing Workforce in the United States: Data, Trends and Implications", the U. S. will be short by about half-million nurses by 2025. Despite the interest in this career field, there is a lack of space and resources at traditional nursing colleges which is hampering the progress toward addressing this shortage. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing found that more than 30,000 qualified applicants didn't make it into nursing programs in 2006, due largely to a lack of nurse faculty.

"This is quite an astonishing and disturbing stumbling block for the nursing profession, which requires nurses to hold a bachelor's and/or master's degree," continued Thomas. "Fortunately, online education (http://www. elearners. com/) breaks down the barriers of traditionally delivered education. The classrooms and faculty are essentially limitless."

In March 2008, The Council on Physician and Nurse Supply reported that 30,000 nursing students need to graduate every year to meet U. S. healthcare needs. That's a 30 percent increase over the number of nurses currently graduating every year. In addition, the U. S. Bureau of Labor says more than one million new and replacement nurses will be needed in the next eight years, making it one of the fastest growing professions in the U. S.

To help provide answers to prospective nursing students about online degree programs, eLearners. com has created the "Guide to Online Nursing Degrees" (http://www. elearners. com/guide/guide-to-nursing. asp). In addition to providing information on more than 80 accredited online nursing degree (http://www. elearners. com/online-degrees/nursing. htm) programs, ranging from an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing to a Nursing Ph. D., the guide answers questions such as:
What is nursing? Is an online nursing degree right for me? What concentrations exist for online nursing degrees? What courses will I take in an online nursing degree? What careers in nursing will I be ready for?

For more information on nursing degrees, online education, and how to finance a college education, visit http://www. eLearners. com (http://www. eLearners. com).

About eLearners. com®
The eLearners. com website is one of several high visibility, high-quality prospecting tools offered by EducationDynamics, LLC. Since 1999, eLearners. com has been successfully connecting learners to online education, including online graduate degrees (http://www. elearners. com/online-degrees/graduate/) as well as online degree and certificate programs, specialized career training, and a variety of online courses. For prospective students, eLearners® provides a powerful search engine for users to find thousands of online program offerings, as well as educational evaluation tools and financial aid resources. For colleges and universities, the eLearners. com website offers a low-cost, performance-based method to provide national exposure and increase enrollments in their programs. For more information on eLearners. com, visit www. elearners. com.

About EducationDynamics
EducationDynamics, a portfolio company of Halyard Capital, is the leading marketing and information services company dedicated to helping higher education institutions find, enroll and retain students. Its content-rich and highly visible education websites, including EarnMyDegree. com, eLearners. com, GradSchools. com, StudyAbroad. com, and its more than 50 special interest microsites, make EducationDynamics the premier provider of qualified prospective students for colleges and universities. In addition, the company offers a full suite of web-delivered services proven to drive enrollment growth and reduce student attrition. For more information, visit http://www. educationdynamics. com (http://www. educationdynamics. com).

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Saturday, June 22, 2002

SurePayroll Insights Survey: Despite Economy, Small Businesses Want to Party

SurePayroll Insights Survey: Despite Economy, Small Businesses Want to Party

Most small business owners are confident they can afford to treat their offices to end-of-year celebrations

Glenview, IL (PRWEB) November 17, 2008

According to a survey conducted this month by online payroll service SurePayroll (http://www. surepayroll. com/), most small business owners are prepared to end 2008 in celebration. The survey found that despite the economic challenges of recent months, 6 out of 10 small business owners are planning to hold a holiday office party and 8 out of 10 of them are confident they can afford it.

Not only are business owners going ahead with holiday parties, they aren't cutting back on the scope of the events. Seven out of 10 business owners who are planning parties said they are spending as much or more money on this year's party as they have in the past.

"It's been a tough year for the business world, but most small business owners realize how essential it is to thank their employees for their hard work," says SurePayroll President Michael Alter. "A holiday party is the perfect opportunity. Business owners might cut other costs during tough times, but most budget for end-of-year celebrations because they are a much-needed spirit-lifter for everyone in the company."

Making your office party stand out:

While 56% of business owners said they have typically held their parties at restaurants, some respondents offered up stories about how they have made office holiday celebrations especially unique.

Out-of-the-ordinary celebrations included everything from throwing a bowling party and attending a concert to having a pie-eating contest and going to a casino. One business treated its employees to a timed downtown shopping spree where individuals were given $250 to spend only on themselves. The owner awarded a special prize to the employee who spent the closest to $250 without going over.

"Any office celebration is going to boost morale, but employees definitely appreciate extra creative ideas," says Alter. "It shows that employers care about their staff so much that they are willing to go the extra mile to make the holiday season special."

Tips for a successful office party:

As part of the survey, small business owners also recounted moments that quickly turned the party from simple fun to outrageous or awkward. Here is what some of the respondents had to say:
"One of the male members of our staff led a conga line in a grass skirt and coconut bra." "A secretary lost her shirt for a substantial amount of time." "Santa's pants fell down to his boxers." "I heard that the accounting girl and a sales person got a little tipsy and then, well, you know…" "The boss attempted to 'pick up' my date! And by 'pick up,' I don't mean physically."

According to Alter, party planning is the key to help avoid the worst, and hope for the best:
Think about who's on staff - "Considering who makes up your team can have a huge impact on the success of your party. Does your business have a large number of young single workers, or are they older workers with families? This will ultimately influence the decision about party location and activities that will most appeal to certain groups." Survey the office - "Unless you're planning a surprise, ask your employees what they'd like to do to celebrate the holidays. Their ideas might not be what you expected, and there's no better way to ensure they will attend and have a good time." Choose your location wisely - "If you choose a venue that allows for the consumption of alcohol, anticipate that there may be employees who take it a bit too far. Encourage carpooling and designated drivers or plan for appropriate transportation, if necessary. This will help ensure the safety of all your workers. If you're in a public setting, the way your employees celebrate may ultimately reflect upon your business. It's often a good idea to make employees aware of what your company does and does not condone in a holiday party setting." Keep it lighthearted - "If you notice an awkward situation developing, sway the conversation in a different direction. If that doesn't work, pull the offending individuals aside and talk to them on a one-on-one basis to prevent the drama from becoming a company-wide spectacle." Delegate responsibilities - "Small business owners often find themselves without enough time to get all their work done, much less plan an office party on their own. There's nothing wrong with asking various staff members to help out. In fact, it will most often lead to a better party."

About SurePayroll:
Voted Editor's Choice (http://www. surepayroll. com/spsite/press/releases/2007/release071107.asp) for best payroll service by PC Magazine, a Top 100 Product by Accounting Today and finalist in the Best Customer Care and Best Product categories of the 2008 American Business Awards, SurePayroll is America's largest full-service online payroll (http://www. surepayroll. com/) service and honoree of the of the Inc. 500 Fastest Growing Businesses award two years in a row.

SurePayroll is passionate about small businesses and their payroll (http://www. surepayroll. com/product/payroll/). The company is dedicated to providing an extremely friendly and simple payroll experience - at a price small business owners can afford.

In addition to its payroll and ClickFREETM tax file and pay service -- which allows a user to complete the entire payroll process in minutes -- SurePayroll offers a suite of online services designed specifically for small business, including HR and compliance (http://www. surepayroll. com/product/compliance/) resources, 401(k) (http://www. surepayroll. com/product/401k/) retirement solutions, health insurance and workers' compensation products.

SurePayroll also offers a private-label and co-branded payroll service to accountants (http://www. surepayroll. com/surechoice/) and banking partners to offer payroll processing to their small business clients.

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Friday, June 21, 2002

Cleveland Attorneys Recognized as Ohio Super Lawyers® on 2010 List

Cleveland Attorneys Recognized as Ohio Super Lawyers® on 2010 List

Six Cleveland attorneys from Spangenberg Shibley & Liber LLP have again been named as Ohio Super Lawyers®. This honor, by the much respected Ohio Super Lawyers® magazine, recognizes the law firm's expertise in personal injury cases and as accomplished medical malpractice attorneys. Congratulations!

Cleveland, OH (PRWEB) May 4, 2010

Spangenberg lawyers were again honored this year when six of their trial lawyers were named 'Super Lawyers' and one additional lawyer of the firm was named a 'Rising Star' by the publishers of Law & Politics.

This is the sixth straight year that our lawyers have been recognized for their accomplishments in representing victims of medical malpractice, defective drugs and products, catastrophic accidents, insurance bad faith, and fraud on consumers. Less than 5% of Ohio lawyers are similarly recognized. Spangenberg partners Dennis Lansdowne and Peter Weinberger were named as two of the top 50 lawyers in Ohio (http://www. spanglaw. com/).

From its new offices in the north point tower overlooking the Cleveland Harbor, Spangenberg Shibley & Liber LLP commands outstanding views of Lake Erie while casting an eagle eye on its clients--consumers, businesses and individuals, on whose behalf it handles a broad range of wrongful death, personal injury (http://www. spanglaw. com/personal-injury/) and health care-related legal matters. Working on a contingency-fee basis and representing only plaintiffs, the firm handles a wide variety of cases including medical malpractice and nationwide consumer mass torts involving drugs, medical devices and toxic exposure. In addition, businesses call upon Spangenberg Shibley & Liber when their insurance company denies coverage.

Health Care Minded Ohio Law Firm (http://cleveland. spanglaw. com/)

"We handle medical-legal cases across the spectrum of health care," says managing partner Peter Weinberger. These include cases that protect consumers injured as a result of medical errors or dangerous drugs, and those with health insurance policies where the insurer denies their claims or rescinds their insurance coverage when they get sick. The current health care debate has highlighted the bad faith conduct that many insurance companies engage in. It has also revealed the power of big drug companies who circumvent FDA regulations. Victims of this misconduct turn to Spangenberg Shibley & Liber lawyers for help.

Retained By Businesses To Pursue Insurance Company Coverage

"In addition to the hundreds of individual plaintiffs we represent, we also have a number of business and corporate clients," says Weinberger. When businesses have coverage disputes with their insurance carrier, they turn to Spangenberg Shibley & Liber. 'Over the past decade, Spangenberg Shibley & Liber lawyers have litigated numerous business coverage matters involving a wide range of insurance disputes,' says Weinberger. The firm proudly recognizes a growing number of its attorneys named to this year's Super Lawyers®, including Peter J. Brodhead, William Hawal, Dennis R. Lansdowne, John D. Liber, Stuart E. Scott and Peter H. Weinberger. Nicholas A. DiCello has been named to the Rising Stars list.

Cases Handled by Spangenberg Shibley & Liber LLP:

Spangenberg Shibley & Liber LLP is a Cleveland law firm that manages cases of wrongful death (http://www. spanglaw. com/personal-injury/wrongful-death/), personal injury, medical malpractice, negligence, and injuries to individuals and classes of consumers involving defective drugs, medical devices and other consumer products. The Ohio law firm also manages business disputes and prosecutes insurance claims on behalf of businesses and individuals. For more than 65 years, the Spangenberg law firm has devoted itself to representing injured persons and aggrieved businesses. Spangenberg Shibley & Liber LLP is headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, at its New Location 1001 Lakeside Ave. East, Suite 1700. For more information or a free consultation, Visit SpangLaw. com.

Renee Latkovic - Public Relations Director
Spangenberg Shibley & Liber LLP
1001 Lakeside Ave. East, Suite 1700
Cleveland, Ohio 44114
Call Toll Free: (877) 696-3303
Local: (216) 696-3232
Fax: (216) 696-3924

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Wednesday, June 19, 2002

$1000 in Contest Prizes for the Best Essays on American Life

$1000 in Contest Prizes for the Best Essays on American Life

Www. lifeintheusa. com and the Life In The USA Web Magazine are now offering $1000 in contest prizes for the best new essays on American life.

Deep River, CT (PRWEB) October 9, 2007

After many years on the web and with a worldwide following, lifeintheusa. com is now offering $1000 in contest prizes for the best new essays on American life.

Topic areas on the lifeintheusa. com site include the American people, culture, law, organizations, food and cooking, government, history, religion, business, finance, employment, immigration, medical care, aging, education, transportation, community, shopping, restaurants, and everyday American life.

The site is looking for new sections on matters as diverse as gay marriage, bureaucracy, public health, sports, teen fads and fashions, school violence, reality television, celebrities, body piercing, outlet malls: any area of American life that could use some explaining to someone coming from another country or culture.

All articles accepted for publication on the website are automatically entered into the $1000 contest. At the end of the contest period, an independent panel will chose winners and $1000 in prizes will be awarded.

Beyond the possibility of winning the contest, the site gives prominent exposure both to new writers and to individual experts wishing to promote their websites and businesses.

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U. S. Human Rights Heroes Announced

U. S. Human Rights Heroes Announced

The Petra Foundation is honoring four unsung heroes this weekend in Washington for their contributions to the rights, dignity and autonomy of others.

Washington (PRWEB) November 6, 2009 –-

The Petra Foundation is honoring four unsung heroes this weekend in Washington for their contributions to the rights, dignity and autonomy of others.

Being honored as Petra Fellows on Saturday, November 7, are individuals who fight for clean drinking water in California, work to ensure the future of Native Americans on the Crow Reservation in Montana, help to rebuild of the lives of exonerated inmates in Louisiana, and provide a lifeline to women released from Baltimore’s city jail.

“With a renewed call to service by the Obama administration, we are proud to amplify the stories of these extraordinary community leaders,” said Meg Fidler, Petra executive director. “Each of them not only inspires others to take action against injustice, but also to change the policies that affect their lives.”

2009 Petra Fellows:

Susana De Anda, founding co-director of the Community Water Center in Visalia, California, secured legislation that directed $2 million to a pilot project for water quality and wastewater treatment for the Tulare Lake Basin. To reverse the effects of decades of intensive fertilizer and pesticide use and run-off from animal factories that have poisoned tap water in the San Joaquin Valley, De Anda has galvanized families who have buried too many stillborn infants and who drive long distances to purchase bottled water they cannot afford.

Peggy White Wellknown Buffalo, director of The Center Pole in Garryowen, Montana, fights for a sustainable future for children on the impoverished Crow Indian Reservation. By providing food, shelter and warm clothing along with cross-cultural enrichment, leadership training and higher-education opportunities, Wellknown Buffalo’s programs enable young Crow not only to leave the reservation but also to bring culturally appropriate leadership and entrepreneurial skills back to the reservation to improve the quality of life there and strengthen the social fabric.

John Thompson served 18 years – 14 on death row, surviving seven scheduled execution dates – in Angola, Louisiana’s State Penitentiary, for a crime he did not commit. Ultimately retried on the basis of new evidence and acquitted of all charges, Thompson was released in 2003 and immediately went to work on behalf of those who remain behind bars. With the encouragement of 2006 Petra Fellow Emily Maw at the Innocence Project - New Orleans, Thompson launched Resurrection After Exoneration, the first transitional housing and resource center in the country run by the exonerated, for the exonerated. Thompson’s wrongly convicted colleagues advocate for change by adding their voices to the national movement for criminal system reform.

Jacqueline Robarge founded Power Inside to break the cycle of the same women being repeatedly locked up in Baltimore’s city jail. Providing what Robarge describes as a “health and human rights response to women traumatized by violence, the street economy and the criminal system,” she works to bridge the gap between correctional settings and public health and housing programs. In 2003, Robarge collaborated with Maryland’s Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services and Johns Hopkins School of Public Health to collect data on the needs of women in jail. The result – Release from Jail: Moment of Crisis or Window of Opportunity for Female Detainees in Baltimore City – has become a nationally recognized guide to the design and evaluation of reentry programs for women.

About The Petra Foundation
Established in 1988, the Petra Foundation champions unsung local leaders making distinctive contributions to the rights and dignity of the millions who are marginalized in America. For more information, see www. petrafoundation. org.

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Tuesday, June 18, 2002

Guest lineup for Global Talk Radio's "A Story to Tell" (week of December 19, 2005)

Guest lineup for Global Talk Radio's "A Story to Tell" (week of December 19, 2005)

This week's special guests include Debbie Gisonni, Alexandra Leclere, Thomas Shaw, Angela Benson, Dr. Anoop Chandola and Dr. Rhonda Hackett.

Torrance, CA (PRWEB) December 19, 2005

Global Talk Radio (http://www. globaltalkradio. com (http://www. globaltalkradio. com)) proudly announces its guest lineup for the top-rated internet talk show, "A Story to Tell", for the week of December 19, 2005.

1 - Just in time for the holidays, Debbie Gisonni shares some timely tips for eliminating stress and enjoying the holiday season to its fullest in her book, "The Goddess of Happiness": A Down-to-Earth Guide for Heavenly Balance and Bliss). She advocates that making yourself happy first is the key to spreading joy around to others. After you hear her inspirational and uplifting tips, you'll understand why she is called "The Goddess of Happiness".

2 - Clairvoyant healer, Alexandra Leclere, takes us on a journey to the other side in her book, "Seeing the Dead, Talking with Spirits". Ms. Leclere was a mother of four and a television/multimedia producer until she underwent a successful alternative healing that allowed her to avoid major surgery. Although Leclere's newfound healing and psychic gifts are extraordinary, her greatest gift is her ability to experience unconditional joy.

3 - What is the meaning of life, and does life have meaning without the promise of heaven or hell? Author Thomas Shaw tackles these important questions with release of "The Leap of Faith: A Leap Too Far". Mr. Shaw argues that if we have the tools - the inner strength and innate intellect - to determine our fate, then perhaps the time has come to stop leaning on the supernatural and recognize these tools and use them to the fullest.

4 - 2001 Christy Award finalist, Angela Benson, introduces listeners to her boldest and most controversial story to date, "The Amen Sisters". This is an unforgettable tale of family, compassion and forgiveness. In her book, Ms. Benson artfully illustrates the joyous redemption that comes with the knowledge that God's love, unlike man's, knows no boundaries.

5 - As Professor Emeritus in East Asian Studies, a linguist, anthropologist and Hindu priest, Dr. Anoop Chandola is uniquely qualified to write of Hindu life. His book, "The Dharma Videos of Lust and Bust: A Novel of Religious Mysteries" exposes the reader to all phases of this religion and leads his follers with great purpose along a path of knowledge and awareness.

6 - Then on Tuesday (December 20th), Dr. Rhonda Hackett joins us for an exclusive hour-long interview. She is the founder of Nivek, an organization which has helped nearly 100,000 people in need. she has also served major nonprofit organizations in the health-services field. Her work and efforts have garnered her a reputation as a devoted professional and humanitarian. Join Dr. Hackett for an in-depth discussion about charity and her new book, "Making a Difference: Changing the World One Penny and One Minute at a Time".

All interviews can be heard in their entirety on-demand 24/7 at http://www. globaltalkradio. com/shows/astorytotell (http://www. globaltalkradio. com/shows/astorytotell)

About Global Talk Radio:

Global Talk Radio was launched in late 2004, and has quickly become a dominant force in the internet talk radio industry. With numerous programs broadcast live and available 24 hours per day on-demand, Global Talk Radio offers a wide variety of exclusive and syndicated talk show content - from paranormal to political, from automotive to women's programs, and much more!

The primary talk shows of interest on Global Talk Radio include A Story to Tell, Around2It, Best Internet Sites, Beyond Reality, Bobby Likis Car Clinic, BookNook, Business 101, Demystifying Non-Profits, GenderTalk, Dirty Little Secrets with Craig and Mike, Jewel's Way, Journeys with Rebecca, New Age Radio, PodCast Radio Show, Ready for Romance, Real Women/Real Business/Real Solutions, Sally's Midnight Hour, The BigMoney with JD Hoffman, The Brandon Show, The Great Shift with Fred Sterling, The Lifestyle CEO Show, The Lillian Cauldwell Show and Your On Live.

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Friday, June 14, 2002

Facial Esthetique Selects Gulfshore Technologies' InternetOffice. Biz

Facial Esthetique Selects Gulfshore Technologies' InternetOffice. Biz

Gulfshore Technologies, Inc. is pleased to announce Facial Esthetique, a medical spa facility in Bonita Springs, FL has selected our collaborative InternetOffice. Biz suite of products to manage their eCommerce website and their in-house Point of Sale, as well as to meet their Content, Contact, CRM Management and growing back office needs.

Bonita Springs, FL (PRWEB) August 19, 2006

Gulfshore Technologies, Inc. is pleased to announce Facial Esthetique; a medical spa facility in Bonita Springs, FL has selected our collaborative InternetOffice. Biz suite of products to manage their eCommerce website and their in-house Point of Sale, as well as to meet their Content, Contact, CRM Management and growing back office needs.

Facial Esthetique whose medical program is run under a licensed healthcare professional determined that to run their medical and beauty office efficiently and seamlessly, they required an Office Suite that was capable of teaming their online products with their in house services.

Facial Esthetique is owned and operated by Grace Reed. Eric Howard Reed DDS, MD, is the facility’s medical director. Dr. Reed’s medical office is located in the same building and he also utilizes Internet Office. Included in the services are medically based consultations and treatments provided by Dr. Reed as well as a medically trained esthetician. You can visit Facial Esthetique at www. facialesthetique. com.

Internet Office allows Facial Esthetique to manage and track their product sales and services through their website and in the office at checkout (POS). In addition, the Internet Office Suite of Products allows Facial Esthetique to manage and report on accounts receivable/payable; quickly and easily produce treatment plans upon checkout; schedule treatment rooms; organize their back office; share calendars; manage their online content and products; and collaborate with all aspects of the business with one easy to use, completely online software tool. No need for servers, tech staff, networking and disparate systems to manage the business of beauty. InternetOffice. biz does it all in a secure online environment with daily backups to co-locations.

About Facial Esthetique

Facial Esthetique is a medical spa facility whose medical program is run under the strict supervision of a licensed healthcare professional. Services are provided that integrate both traditional and nontraditional medicine and spa treatments. To learn more about Facial Esthetique's products and services, please visit the Web site at www. facialesthetique. com or call 239-333-FACE

About Internet Office

Internet Office is the premier Application Service Provider (ASP) to offer a complete suite of secure, collaborative, Internet-based office products to the small and medium sized market. The company's easy-to-use products facilitate real-time integration, eCommerce/POS, Content, Contact, CRM, Product Management, Inventory/Order/Shipping Management and collaboration among office management, staff, sales teams and their customers -- anytime and anywhere you have an internet connection and or a wireless device/mobile phone. To learn more about how the Internet Office Suite of Products allows you to take control of your business, please visit our Web site at www. internetoffice. biz or call 1-239-430-2869 today.

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Power Up Your Business Profits With a Painless Plan

Power Up Your Business Profits With a Painless Plan

The idea of writing a business plan can make many small business owners long for something less painful—such as a root canal. There is no need for such dread, according to local business coach Maria Marsala, creator of the “Power Up Your Business Profits!” workshop. “Creating a plan for your business can be a fun and painless process. Most small business owners keep their plans in their own heads,” says Marsala. “The One Page Business Plan® process helps you get your plan on paper so you can make it a reality.”

Poulsbo, WA (PRWEB) August 23, 2005

The idea of writing a business plan can make many small business owners long for something less painful—such as a root canal. There is no need for such dread, according to local business coach Maria Marsala, creator of the “Power Up Your Business Profits!” workshop. “Creating a plan for your business can be a fun and painless process. Most small business owners keep their plans in their own heads,” says Marsala. “The One Page Business Plan® process helps you get your plan on paper so you can make it a reality.”

Marsala is teaming up with Heavenly Choices to offer the workshop to alternative health practitioners on October 6, 2005, from 6:30-9 PM. The workshop is based on the best-selling The One Page Business Plan® a workbook by Jim Horan, based on his work as a CFO of Fortune 500 companies.

“The leading cause of small business failure is inadequate planning,” says Marsala. In this workshop, Marsala, licensed The One Page Business Plan® consultant, will lead you through the process of turning your good intentions into a very concise, yet very powerful business tool. These deceptively simple business plans include a marketing plan and ways to monitor your business success. “I so strongly believe in the One-Page process that once my clients complete theirs, I send them a frame to put them in. I want it to be the first thing they see when they go into their offices each day!" chuckles Marsala.

“Many business owners believe they don't need a business plan unless they are seeking funding," Marsala says. “Having a plan is even more important when it is YOUR money, your dreams, and your livelihood at risk." You probably don’t need a 25-page plan that will gather dust on a shelf. “Your One Page plan will help you get real about your business, make better decisions and prioritize your activities,” Marsala says. If you do seek investor funding then you do need a larger plan to bring to the bank. You can save yourself time and aggravation by creating a One Page Business Plan first and using it as the Executive Summary of the larger plan."

The Power Up Your Business Profits! Workshop is $12 and will be held at 19020 Front Street, Poulsbo. To pre-register call Eileen Angilletta or Susan Johnson at 360-697-6765. For questions about class content call Maria Marsala, owner of Elevating Your Business at 360-271-8418. For those who wish to move beyond the workshop, Marsala offers confidential consultations, and teaches workshops across the country and through a Teleclass format.

Marsala, a licensed One Page Business Plan® consultant draws on her Wall Street trading experience and six years of business success to help business ownerÂ’s nationwide. She helps service business owners and professionals quickly increase their bottom line by developing systems that work, informational products and a profitable Internet presence. In addition to more than 200 business and Internet articles she has appeared on TV & radio shows on both coasts. Her most recent venture is the “Small Business Advisor In A Box: Corporate Secrets for Business Profits” system.

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Tuesday, June 11, 2002

Education. com Announces 2010 A+ Award Winners

Education. com Announces 2010 A+ Award Winners

Forty educational, safe, and fun toys earn top marks from leading website for parents.

Redwood City, CA (Vocus) February 17, 2010

Education. com (http://www. education. com/), a leading web destination for parents of school-aged children, today announced its 2010 list of A+ Award winners (http://www. education. com/awards/a-plus/). For the third year, Education. com commissioned a team of teachers, parents, curriculum specialists, members of its editorial staff, and kids to put hundreds of toys through their paces to find those that possess the unique combination of being exceptionally educational, safe and fun.

“Today more than ever, people want the biggest bang for their buck when they’re shopping for the children in their lives,” said Education. com Editor-in-Chief Danielle Wood. “In today’s economy, it makes sense to invest in the best products available, but it can be difficult to find products that are truly satisfying to both kids and the adults who love them. Parents want products that support kids’ development and are safe. Kids want toys that are fun the first day they get them, and stay fun as they use them over time. A+ Award winners encompass all of this – they inspire imagination, creativity, and a healthy amount of competitive spirit. They have repeat play value and they’re interesting enough to grow with the child as his or her abilities improve. To make it on this list, our panel of adult experts and kids has to be really impressed and inspired. Some of the toys on the list support reading or other curriculum-based concepts, while others work on whole-child developmental areas like sharing or physical fitness, but they all promote learning. And kids will probably never realize it because they’ll be focused on the fun.”

Education. com’s A+ Awards are unique to other seal of approval programs in that there is no charge for companies to be considered for the award, nor is there any fee for winners who use the A+ Award winner seal to promote their products. Wood explains, “The only way to influence your way on to this list is to create a really outstanding product. We don’t accept payment, read pitches, or involve our marketing or advertising teams in the selection process. We go through a pretty grueling process to find the products we think are worth considering. Then we take those products out of their packages, use them, and ask our selection panel to rate them based on very specific criteria. About 50 products make the list each year and hundreds that we’ve evaluated don’t.”

The A+ Award winners are organized on Education. com by grade level. This year’s winners as well as all previous winners can be viewed by visiting http://www. education. com/awards/a-plus/ (http://www. education. com/awards/a-plus/).

About Education. com: More than two million parents a month come to Education. com to get the information they need to support their children’s unique educational and developmental needs, and to find ideas for how to make learning more fun. From kindergarten readiness to college prep, Education. com is the leading destination for involved parents. Often called “The WebMD of education,” the company has teamed up with leading universities, nonprofits, and research organizations to offer highly credible parenting, developmental, and educational information. The site also offers printable activities, community resources, access to best-of-breed educational services, and SchoolFinder – a tool that gives parents comprehensive data on the nation’s 125,000 public, private and charter schools. Education. com was founded in 2006 and is headquartered in Redwood City, CA. The company is backed by leading venture capital firms, Azure Capital Partners, TeleSoft Partners, and California Technology Ventures. For more information, please visit www. education. com.

Media Contact:

Kat Eden 
Education. com 
650.366.3380 X2218 

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Monday, June 10, 2002

DietNamix Dietetic Consulting & Personal Training launched their: Official Website and Discount Referral Program

DietNamix Dietetic Consulting & Personal Training launched their: Official Website and Discount Referral Program

Edmond, Oklahoma based company, DietNamix Dietetic Consulting & Personal Training launched their official company website, http://www. dietnamix. com and discount referral program to provide greater value to their clients. DietNamix specializes in dietetic consulting and personal training that is tailored to meet the health goals and other specific needs of each client. We provide a DietNamix Way to a Dynamic Life!

Edmond, OK (PRWEB) June 3, 2004

DietNamix Dietetic Consulting & Personal Training is proud to announce the launch of their company website on May 31, 2004. The website address is http://www. dietnamix. com (http://www. dietnamix. com). We launched our website to inform all individuals living in the Greater Oklahoma City Area including the Edmond area of their dietetic consulting and personal training services and programs. In addition, DietNamix now provides referral discounts to their clients. We welcome you log onto our homepage and click on the DietNamix Discounts hyperlink to find out more information about our discount referral program.

At DietNamix, our slogan is we are, “A DietNamix Way to a Dynamic Life!” Our mission is to enhance the life of every client. We help each client to achieve their healthy lifestyle goals with professional guidance and a positive environment.

Personal Training:

Michael Buzan is our Certified Personal Trainer. The following details his qualifications:

· Certified as a Personal Trainer through The National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)

· Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise and Fitness/Management

Dietetic Consulting:

Stacy Buzan is our professional Dietetic Consultant. The following details her qualifications:

· Registered Dietetic Technician through the American Dietetic Association

· 10 years experience in clinical dietetics

· Bachelor of Science in Nutrition & Dietetics

· Associate Degree in Applied Science in Dietetic Technology

· American Dietetic Association professional member

· Sports, Cardiovascular & Nutrition Dietetic Practice Group Member

· Diabetes Education Dietetic Practice Group Member

· American Diabetes Association professional member

· Nutritional Sciences and Metabolism Council

Access the DietNamix Dietetic Consulting & Personal Training Home Page at http://www. dietnamix. com (http://www. dietnamix. com) to start accomplishing your health goals. To increase the value of our service, we have a Discount Referral Program. To find out more information about this program, we welcome you log onto our homepage and click on the DietNamix Discounts hyperlink.

Thank you for taking the time to find out more about our services. DietNamix can be contacted at (405) 844-2801 or by e-mail at mbuzan@sbcglobal. net. We will keep you informed regarding any new events and announcements. Remember DietNamix is, "A DietNamix Way to a Dynamic Life!"

Sunday, June 9, 2002

Abnormal Brain Circuits May Prevent Movement Disorder

Abnormal Brain Circuits May Prevent Movement Disorder

Most people who carry a genetic mutation for a movement disorder called dystonia will never develop symptoms, a phenomenon that has puzzled scientists since the first genetic mutation was identified in the 1990s. Now, scientists at The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research have figured out why these mutation carriers are protected from symptoms of the disorder - they have an additional lesion that evens the score.

Manhasset, NY (Vocus) August 5, 2009

Most people who carry a genetic mutation for a movement disorder called dystonia will never develop symptoms, a phenomenon that has puzzled scientists since the first genetic mutation was identified in the 1990s. Now, scientists at The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research have figured out why these mutation carriers are protected from symptoms of the disorder - they have an additional lesion that evens the score.

Dystonia is marked by uncontrolled movements, particularly twisting and abnormal postures. Studies have shown that muscles contract abnormally and patients can't stop the involuntary movements. The identification of a specific abnormality in people with the genetic mutation who never develop symptoms could eventually pave the way towards new treatments for dystonia patients. There are half a million people in the United States alone. The brains of people with inherited dystonia are normal at autopsy and the exact cause of their movement abnormality is unknown.

David Eidelberg, MD, the senior author of the study published in the Journal of Neuroscience, said that they used diffusion tensor imaging - a type of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) that measures changes in the integrity of white matter pathways in the brain - to study those with and without symptoms who carry the disease gene. There were 20 people in the study; 12 with symptoms and eight without. They also had a number of volunteers who agreed to brain scans who had no disease and no mutations in the gene for dystonia.

Dr. Eidelberg and his colleagues identified two discrete areas along the pathway that links the cerebellum to the motor cortex that together determine whether a mutation carrier will display clinical manifestations of the disease.

Their earlier work revealed that patients and non-patients with the disease gene have the same underlying functional brain abnormality, such as overactivity of motor circuits that make it hard to process sequential information. Nonetheless, mutation carriers have a characteristic circuit disorder involving a motor system that is revved up and idling at high speed, making it difficult to integrate the information needed to plan movements and to learn new motor skills. It was not suspected that these otherwise healthy individuals had such difficulties since doctors only saw those who presented with the uncontrollable movements.

While their brains show the same abnormal network, only approximately 30% of people who carry the mutated gene called DYT1 will develop the involuntary movements that can prevent them from living a normal life, according to Dr. Eidelberg.

The puzzle was why.

In the latest study, the new advances in diffusion imaging allowed them to see something for the first time. They saw that there were two places along the motor pathway that seemed to stop the flow of neural signals from one part of the circuit to the other. Those with only one lesion in the circuit developed the debilitating movements and those with two lesions did not. "There is something about this second lesion that is protective," the authors concluded. "We found a consistent cerebellar pathway problem in all DYT1 carriers. When we went back and looked at those without symptoms, we saw that they had an additional lesion downstream in the portion of the pathway connecting directly to the motor cortex." This second area of pathway disruption abrogated the effects of the first lesion.

Normally, the cerebellum (a region that controls movement) puts the breaks on the motor cortex by potentiating inhibition at the cortical level. It is likely that mutation carriers have a developmental problem in the flow of neural signals along this circuit such that the brain can't inhibit an unwanted movement. With the second pathway lesion, Dr. Eidelberg explained, "the flow is shut off and the abnormal activity stops."

The research was supported by the National Institutes of Health, the Bachmann-Strauss Dystonia and Parkinson Foundation, and the General Clinical Research Center, located at the Feinstein Institute.

About The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research
Headquartered in Manhasset, NY, The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research is home to international scientific leaders in Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, psychiatric disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, sepsis, inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes, human genetics, leukemia, lymphoma, neuroimmunology, and medicinal chemistry. The Feinstein Institute, part of the North Shore-LIJ Health System, ranks in the top 6th percentile of all National Institutes of Health grants awarded to research centers. Feinstein researchers are developing new drugs and drug targets, and producing results where science meets the patient. For more information, please visit http://www. FeinsteinInstitute. org

Contact:
Jamie Talan
Science writer-in-residence
516-562-1232 (w) or
631-682-8781 (c)

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Wednesday, June 5, 2002

New "Wellness Score" from CIGNA Can Forecast Health Risks Years in Advance

New "Wellness Score" from CIGNA Can Forecast Health Risks Years in Advance

Online questionnaire and sophisticated analytics predict future impact; combined with online coaching to help improve health.

Bloomfield, CT (PRWEB) April 8, 2008

What if you could see into the future and know more now about the things you're doing - or not doing - that are likely to result in health risks and health care expenses down the road? CIGNA is giving its members the ability to do just that by launching its sophisticated, "next generation" health assessment and predictive capabilities. CIGNA is also coupling these capabilities with new online health coaching programs in the areas of sleep, stress, nutrition and physical activity that help motivate and support people to address these risks.

Based on more than 30 years of research by Professor Dee W. Edington, Ph. D., and researchers at the University of Michigan Health Management Research Center, the system, called the Trend Management System, analyzes an individual's responses and clusters them into four main categories: low risk, risk-taking, biometric and psychological. It is programmed to recognize 34 dangerous risk combinations and predict -- with an accuracy rating of 83 percent -- how likely an individual is to face health problems that could lead to high health care costs in the next few years.

The analytics can help identify -- in priority order -- those risks or behaviors that an individual should address to prevent future health issues. The analytics also rank order individuals to help CIGNA better identify which individuals should be offered health coaching first, and help coaches determine the best approach to take to address an individual's health issues.

"Taking a health assessment can be a good way to help people think about how their lifestyle could impact their health today and in the future," said Keith Dixon, Ph. D., president of CIGNA's health solutions unit. "But the key to better health is action. That's why our new health assessment system, online coaching courses and entire suite of health programs focus on helping people take action, week by week, one small step at a time, to make changes that will have lasting impact."

According to a recent CIGNA survey, Americans are ready to know about their health risks and would be motivated to make healthy changes based on that knowledge. Eighty-seven percent of survey respondents said they would value getting information that can predict risk for developing health problems, and 94 percent said they would be motivated to make healthy lifestyle changes if the assessment showed they were at medium or high risk for developing health problems.

CIGNA's online or paper health assessment is an extensive yet simple questionnaire that asks an individual a variety of biometric, health and lifestyle questions. Included are topics such as blood pressure and cholesterol; smoking, exercise and sleep habits; diet and alcohol consumption; perception of health and stress; quality of life issues; seatbelt use and other behaviors; and questions about dental care, medications and vaccinations, and how illness and other factors have affected productivity and time off from work.

The system immediately creates a personal health assessment profile, which displays an overall wellness score from 50 to 100 and identifies the top three risks most likely to affect the individual within the next few years. The report offers recommended behavior changes to reduce the risks, and also tells individuals what they're doing well right now.

Then, based on individual results, some are immediately and proactively invited to participate in one or more six - to eight-week online coaching programs focused on stress, sleep, nutrition or physical activity. Others are invited to participate in one-on-one coaching or counseling. The system, along with the existing CIGNA suite of services, provides the most appropriate action for each individual.

The new analytics also have benefits for CIGNA's employer customers. By understanding the overall health status of its entire employee base, an employer can tailor individual and population-based health and wellness programs to address those risks. For example, based on the health assessment results and trend analysis, an employer might introduce population-based programs such as healthier food choices in the cafeteria or a "know your numbers" program, or implement exercise and stress management programs that are provided at the individual level. The ultimate goal is a healthier and more productive employee population, which will result in lower medical, disability and lost-time costs.

"Health assessments are powerful tools that enable an employer to assess the health status of its workforce while also helping employees become more actively engaged in their own health and wellness," said Andrew Scibelli, manager, employee health & well-being, Florida Power & Light Company. "A well-designed assessment helps employers implement targeted health and wellness programs that improve employee health, increase productivity, and ultimately drive down health care costs for both the employer and its employees."

"It is very gratifying to see a major health service company like CIGNA put our 30 years of research into action to effectively improve the health and well-being of millions of Americans," said Dr. Dee W. Edington, director of the University of Michigan Health Management Research Center. "This is a major step forward in helping employers create a culture of health in the workplace."

Dr. Edington's research shows that health costs, including both medical and disability, increase as the number of dangerous risk combinations increase. Through coaching and other health interventions, shifting an individual from the high number of dangerous risk combinations category to the low dangerous risk combinations category can save as much as $4,078 in annual costs. According to Edington, the earlier individuals are engaged in their health status, the sooner risks are minimized and health care costs are reduced. Edington's research also shows that employee productivity decreases as health risks increase. Employees at medium or high risk are less productive than employees with low risk.

"The secret is in knowing which risks are critical to address in order to reduce the number of dangerous risk combinations, and the Trend Management Systems allows us to identify those key risks," said CIGNA's Dixon.

For a brief video demonstration of the health assessment tool and online coaching courses, please visit CIGNA HRA Demo (http://www. cigna. com/hrademo). For more information about CIGNA's agreement with the University of Michigan Health Management Research Center, visit http://newsroom. cigna. com/article_display. cfm? article_id=543 (http://newsroom. cigna. com/article_display. cfm? article_id=543)

About CIGNA HealthCare:
CIGNA HealthCare, headquartered in Bloomfield, Conn., provides medical benefits plans, dental coverage, behavioral health coverage, pharmacy benefits and products and services that integrate and analyze information to support consumerism and health advocacy. "CIGNA HealthCare" is a registered service mark of CIGNA Intellectual Property, Inc., licensed for use by CIGNA Corporation (NYSE:CI) and its operating subsidiaries, including Connecticut General Life Insurance Company. Products and services are provided by such operating subsidiaries and not by CIGNA Corporation.

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Monday, June 3, 2002

Venture Equity in Latin America First Half 2006 Outpaces Full-Year 2005 Levels

Venture Equity in Latin America First Half 2006 Outpaces Full-Year 2005 Levels

More private equity and venture capital has been invested in Latin America in the first half of 2006 than in any other full year since 2000, according to the just published Venture Equity Latin America (VE - LA) 2006 Mid-Year Report.

Concord, MA (PRWEB) August 18, 2006

More private equity and venture capital has been invested in Latin America in the first half of 2006 than in any other full year since 2000, according to the just published Venture Equity Latin America (VE - LA) 2006 Mid-Year Report.

The Report indicates that over $1.5 billion has already been invested in the region, increasing by 50 percent over levels for all of 2005. Exits are close to $2 billion.

At the end of 2005, some industry players were concerned that a one-year period in which 12 Latin American presidential elections would take place would have a chilling effect on private equity investment in the region. Elections, even some of which have resulted in the rise of populist leaders, have had no such effect.

Although a healthy amount of capital has been invested in the Big Three (Brazil, Mexico and Argentina), the rest of Latin America has been the real story. Almost $900 million has been invested in these countries so far this year as private equity investors are seeking to take advantage of low valuations and a dearth of capital. Interestingly, Mexico saw a larger volume of private equity investment than did Brazil in the first half of the year, and received less investment than only Chile.

Last year, four deals involved an investment of $100 million or more, all of them in the Big Three. So far in 2006, there have already been seven deals of such magnitude, only three of which were in the Big Three.

The 2006 Mid-Year Report provides comprehensive deal analysis in addition to data presented in a sortable, easy-to-use electronic format.

The 2006 Mid-Year Report, along with the twice-monthly periodical, Venture Equity Latin America is published by WorldTrade Executive, Inc. of Concord, Massachusetts. WorldTrade Executive, Inc. also publishes Latin American Law and Business Report, Practical Latin American Tax Strategies, and Practical Mexican Tax Strategies, as well as other periodicals and reports covering international transactions.

Deal amounts per country and other information is available at www. wtexec. com/VELA_06MY_sample. pdf (http://www. wtexec. com/VELA_06MY_sample. pdf). More information on Venture Equity Latin America is available at www. wtexec. com/vela. html (http://www. wtexec. com/vela. html) or by contacting Jay Stanley at WorldTrade Executive, Inc. at 978-287-0301 or at 2250 Main St., Concord, MA. 01742.

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Sunday, June 2, 2002

David B. Samadi, MD, Demonstrates Robotic Prostate Surgery During Live Webcast, August 13, 2008

David B. Samadi, MD, Demonstrates Robotic Prostate Surgery During Live Webcast, August 13, 2008

Robotic prostate surgery enables quicker recovery. Join the Mount Sinai Medical Center's leading urology experts to discuss the effectiveness of open, laparoscopic, and robotic prostatectomies. The webcast features case video of live surgeries using the latest da Vinci® prostatectomy techniques. OR-LIVE Webcast Premiere on Wednesday, August 13, 2008 at 5:00 PM ET.

New York, NY (PRWEB) July 31, 2008

The Mount Sinai Medical Center and Intuitive Surgical, Inc. will offer a live webcast on OR-Live. com featuring David B. Samadi, M. D., Chief of Robotics and Minimal Invasive Surgery in the Department of Urology at Mount Sinai on August 13, 2008 at 5:00 p. m. EST. Dr. Samadi will explain case video of a robotic radical prostatectomy using the da Vinci S HD Surgical System. He will conduct a live question and answer session with viewers on the effectiveness of open, laparoscopic, and robotic prostate surgeries. Dr. Simon Hall, Chair of the Department of Urology and Director of the Barbara and Maurice A. Deane Prostate Health and Research Center at Mount Sinai will also participate on the panel.

"As a surgeon, robotic surgery (http://www. roboticoncology. com/robotic-surgery) enables me to remove the cancerous prostate from patients and help them return to a normal, healthy life," said Dr. Samadi. "Instead of two to three days of hospitalization and two months of recuperation typical with open prostate surgery, robotic surgery patients often go home the next day and resume normal activities within two weeks."

During the webcast, Dr. Samadi will discuss the benefits of a robotic-assisted prostatectomy as compared to open and laparoscopic surgical procedures. Robotic prostate surgery (http://www. roboticoncology. com) is made possible with highly magnified visual enhancement technology in a bloodless field. This allows for greater precision in cutting and suturing with far less trauma to surrounding tissue, delicate nerve sparing, minimal blood loss, reduced risk of infection, and faster recovery. Patients experience improved clinical outcomes and increased control over their bladders and sexual functions.

Dr. Hall specializes in urologic oncology and open surgical techniques, and collaborates with Dr. Samadi on the treatment of prostate cancer for many of his patients.

"I have seen the number of robotic prostatectomies increase among our patient population over the past couple of years and the benefits are quite clear," shared Dr. Hall. "These surgeries result in fewer immediate complications and quicker recovery than in an open procedure, especially in the hands of a skilled surgeon who performs a high volume of cases routinely."

The Procedure:
Dr. Samadi's robotic prostatectomy technique has evolved over the past 8 years -- starting with open surgery, moving to laparoscopy and finally to robotic surgery (http://www. roboticoncology. com/robotic-surgery). Instead of making an 8" to 10" incision to remove a 2" prostate gland, Dr. Samadi's robotic prostatectomy (http://www. roboticoncology. com/da-vinci-robotic-prostatectomy) surgery involves just five small "keyhole" incisions in the patient's abdomen, through which extremely fine instruments are inserted along with a miniscule camera that displays magnified two-dimensional images from inside the body onto a screen. The addition of the sophisticated da Vinci system transforms those images into 3D representations, which enables the surgeon's hand movements to be scaled, filtered, and incredibly precise. This eliminates the touch factor or tactile feedback necessary to perform open surgery.

During the webcast, Dr. Samadi will highlight his unique advanced surgical techniques while performing a da Vinci Prostatectomy] using the latest technology--the 4-arm da Vinci S Surgical System with high-definition 3D vision. The fourth robotic arm helps the surgeon by providing retraction to increase exposure of structures in the operative field. This arm also facilitates dissection by providing traction at the surgeon's control.

Surgeon Experience:
Dr. Samadi is a board-certified urologic surgeon trained in open, laparoscopic, and robotic surgery. He is one of the world's most experienced da Vinci surgeons with a record of high success. Dr. Samadi is one of the only surgeons in the country to have completed two fellowships: one in oncology (trained at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York) and the other in laparoscopy (trained at Henri Mondor Hospital in France).

Dr. Samadi has completed more than 1,350 da Vinci cases in his career and since his arrival at Mount Sinai a year ago, he has performed nearly 550 robotic operations. Dr. Samadi's robotic surgery program at Mount Sinai is unique for its ability to combine the advanced technology of robotics with the expertise of open and laparoscopic skills. For the series of surgeries performed at Mount Sinai, Dr. Samadi's patients experienced an average blood loss of 63cc with a T2 positive margin of 7%. Eighty-five percent of his patients were able to wear one surgical pad or less just three months after surgery. The average length of hospital stay was one day with minimal complications and positive outcomes.

This program is paid for by Intuitive Surgical, manufacturer of the da Vinci S HD Surgical System.

About The Mount Sinai Medical Center:
The Mount Sinai Medical Center includes The Mount Sinai Hospital and Mount Sinai School of Medicine. The Mount Sinai Hospital is one of the nation's oldest, largest and most-respected voluntary hospitals. Founded in 1852, Mount Sinai today is a 1,406-bed tertiary-care teaching facility that is internationally acclaimed for excellence in clinical care. Last year, nearly 50,000 people were treated at Mount Sinai as inpatients, and there were nearly 450,000 outpatient visits to the Medical Center. Mount Sinai School of Medicine is internationally recognized as a leader in groundbreaking clinical and basic-science research, as well as having an innovative approach to medical education. With a faculty of more than 3,400 in 38 clinical and basic science departments and centers, Mount Sinai ranks among the top 20 medical schools in receipt of National Institute of Health (NIH) grants. To learn more about Dr. Samadi and the Mount Sinai Medical Center, please visit www. roboticoncology. com or www. mountsinai. org.

About Intuitive Surgical, Inc.:
Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (NASDAQ: ISRG), headquartered in Sunnyvale, California, is the global technology leader in the emerging field of robot-assisted, minimally invasive surgery (http://www. roboticoncology. com/da-vinci-robotic-prostatectomy) (MIS). Intuitive Surgical develops, manufactures and markets robotic technologies designed to improve clinical outcomes and help patients return more quickly to active and productive lives. The company's mission is to extend the benefits of minimally invasive surgery to the broadest possible base of patients. More information is available at www. intuitivesurgical. com and www. davincisurgery. com. Intuitive Surgical -- Taking surgical precision beyond the limits of the human hand™

About the da Vinci® Surgical System:
The da Vinci Surgical System (http://www. roboticoncology. com/history) is a sophisticated robotic platform designed to enable complex surgery using a minimally invasive approach. The da Vinci System consists of an ergonomic surgeon's console, a patient-side cart with four interactive robotic arms, a high-performance vision system and proprietary EndoWrist® instruments. Powered by state-of-the-art robotic technology, the da Vinci System is designed to scale, filter and seamlessly translate the surgeon's hand movements into more precise movements of the EndoWrist instruments. The net result is an intuitive interface with breakthrough surgical capabilities. By providing surgeons with superior visualization, enhanced dexterity, greater precision and ergonomic comfort, the da Vinci Surgical System makes it possible for more surgeons to perform minimally invasive procedures involving complex dissection or reconstruction. This ultimately raises the standard of care for complex surgeries, translating into numerous potential patient benefits, including less pain, a shorter recovery and quicker return to normal daily activities.

The presentation described is for general information only and is not intended to substitute for formal medical training or certification. An independent surgeon, who is not an Intuitive Surgical employee, provides procedure descriptions. Intuitive Surgical trains only on the use of its products and is not responsible for surgical credentialing or for training in surgical procedure or technique. As a result, Intuitive is not responsible for procedural content. While clinical studies support the use of the da Vinci Surgical System as an effective tool for minimally invasive surgery, individual results may vary.

Intuitive®, da Vinci®, InSite® and EndoWrist® are registered trademarks of Intuitive Surgical, Inc.

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Lose Fat and Sleep Better with Harmony™ by Nutrifect

Lose Fat and Sleep Better with Harmony™ by Nutrifect

Nutrifect (http://www. nutrifect. com) introduces Harmony™, a nutritional product that encourages healthy Serotonin levels. Healthy serotonin levels not only help individuals sleep better, but also assist with healthy fat loss due to reduced food and sugar cravings.

Springville, UT (PRWEB) November 8, 2010

Low levels of the chemical Serotonin create cravings to eat sweets and foods high in carbohydrates like doughnuts, cakes, pies, and chips. Eating junk food causes the brain to release a burst of Serotonin. The carbohydrates in junk food destabilize blood sugar, causing your body to over-produce insulin, which results in the increase of stored body fat. Serotonin also affects your mood, your ability to cope with stress, and your ability to experience restful sleep.

The body tries to maintain a normal serotonin level and variations in this level may cause different symptoms. A drastic drop in serotonin levels can be caused by various factors like stress, lack of physical activities, and improper diet. Such low serotonin levels or serotonin deficiency in the body results in symptoms like, depression, mood disorders, weight gain, fatigue, and sleep disorders.

“Harmony™ is having a positive impact in the lives of many of our customers,” said Trevor Keeler, CMO of Nutrifect. “By creating healthy Serotonin levels, Harmony™ facilitates a better quality of life physically, mentally, and emotionally. We invite everyone to begin redesigning their lives today.”

“My husband and I started taking Harmony™ and immediately began noticing the way it reduced our cravings for sweets,” said Marie C. of Tennessee. “We continued using Harmony™ and we are happy to report that we have lost considerable weight, not to mention inches! Needless to say we feel wonderful.”

“This experience is not unique, said Director of Business Development Seth Chase. We are receiving this type of response from many individuals currently using Harmony™.”

About Nutrifect, Inc.

Nutrifect (http://www. nutrifect. com) is a health and wellness company dedicated to developing science-based formulas that promote a healthy and happy life. Harmony™ was developed to assist in the restoration of a healthy and active life by targeting and creating healthy Serotonin levels. It also utilizes our patented BioSend™ delivery system, a proprietary blend of premium components selected for their nutritional effects. This patented system delivers nutrients to the cellular level and in a bio-available form that is up to 60 times more absorbent.

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Sperm Bank Supports the Rise of 'Willing to be Known' Sperm Donors

Sperm Bank Supports the Rise of 'Willing to be Known' Sperm Donors

Lesbian-Owned Sperm Bank Leads Wave with the Nation's Largest Number of Sperm Donors Willing to Meet Children When They Reach 18

San Francisco, CA (PRWEB) May 16, 2007

Since its founding in 1984, Pacific Reproductive Services Sperm Bank & Fertility Center (PRS) has played a pioneering role in advancing the growing national trend to provide women the option of choosing sperm donors (http://www. pacrepro. com/your_selection. htm) who are "willing to be known" when a child reaches 18.

Today, after years of focusing on identifying donors who agree to make such a commitment, PRS offers its clients the largest selection of any sperm bank (http://www. pacrepro. com/) in the country. It also ships sperm to women throughout the world who often have access only to anonymous donors.

Sperm Donors with a Difference
According to PRS founder and longtime women's health care activist, Sherron Mills, N. P., the large majority of her clients - most of whom are either single or coupled lesbians or heterosexual women choosing single motherhood - select willing to be known donors over the anonymous ones the sperm bank also offers. "They do it because they very much want their children to have the opportunity, if they choose to pursue it, to understand a little more about the other half of their biological lineage," she comments.

Every willing to be known sperm donor contractually agrees to provide PRS current contact information and to have at least one face-to-face meeting with a child when he or she reaches 18, should the child request it. Any additional meetings must be mutually agreed upon by both the child and the donor. In addition, under California law, the donor waives all parental rights, eliminating the possibility that he could at some point seek custody or visitation privileges.

"I Don't Know What To Expect, What To Feel"
Cooper was one of the first babies conceived through artificial insemination (http://www. pacrepro. com/process. htm) using PRS' willing to be known donor sperm. At the age of 19, and with the full support of the lesbian couple who are his parents, he made one of the biggest decisions of his young life. He decided to pursue the option of contacting his sperm donor. With a mixture of nerves, anticipation and a desire for a degree of closure, he filled out the request to Pacific Reproductive Services for the donor's information.

"I don't know what to expect, what to feel," Cooper said. "Just to know his name is pretty great." His moms, for different reasons, were just as nervous. "I just hope it goes well - it's so momentous," one commented.

"Such A Moving Experience"
The long-awaited telephone conversation was captured forever by a film crew working on an MTV documentary on gay parents and their children. Connor never stopped smiling and the donor assured him he very much looked forward to meeting him. "It was such a moving experience," Cooper said. They have stayed in contact.

But not all young people now coming of age as part of the first wave of inseminations using PRS' willing to be known donors have shown the same interest as Connor and others in making contact. At least not yet. "They may at some point in their lives," says Sherron. "But the main thing for me - and for their mothers - is that they have that option open to them."

About PRS
Pacific Reproductive Services Sperm Bank & Fertility Center provides all women who wish to have children with the nation's largest selection of willing to be known sperm donors. PRS is also the nation's only lesbian-owned sperm bank (http://www. pacrepro. com/why_prs. htm).

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Saturday, June 1, 2002

Magazines. com Gift Cards Now Available at SUPERVALU® Grocery Stores Nationwide

Magazines. com Gift Cards Now Available at SUPERVALU® Grocery Stores Nationwide

Online retailer Magazines. com, the leading magazine subscription service on the Internet, is now offering gift cards in more than 1,000 retail locations in the SUPERVALU® chain of grocery stores.

Franklin, TN (Vocus) November 4, 2009

Magazines. com gift cards are now available at SUPERVALU ® stores just in time for holiday shopping. This marks the first time Magazines. com gift cards are available in retail stores.

"We're excited to make Magazines. com gift cards available in SUPERVALU ® stores," said Jay Clarke, Magazines. com President and CEO. "Making it possible for our customers to buy gift cards at SUPERVALU® stores is just another way for us to make gift-giving simple and convenient."

Customers can find Magazines. com gift cards at 1,186 SUPERVALU® store locations including Albertsons®, Acme®, bigg's®, Cub Foods®, Farm Fresh®, Hornbacher's®, Jewel-Osco®, Shaw's/Star Market®, Shop 'n Save®, and Shoppers Food & Pharmacy® in cities across the U. S. The gift cards are located at checkout lanes and at the gift card center. In addition, during November and December, the gift cards will be featured in stand-alone promotional displays.

Magazines. com gift cards are available for $25 at SUPERVALU® stores and can be used on any magazine subscription at Magazines. com, including our best-selling magazines like Food Network, Men's Health and BusinessWeek.

Magazine subscriptions make great gifts that last all-year long. With more than 2,000 titles, Magazines. com has something for everyone.

About Magazines. com
Magazines. com is the oldest, the largest and the most dependable magazine subscription service on the Internet. We are a privately-held company based in Franklin, Tenn., a suburb of Nashville. Our major investors include Time Inc., publisher of great magazines like People and Sports Illustrated.

With more than 2,000 titles available, Magazines. com offers people a fun, easy way to discover new magazines and helps them track subscriptions. Magazines. com is the leading independent agent selling subscriptions, serving customers online at Magazines. com and by telephone at 800-MAGAZINES (800-624-2946).

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