Thursday, June 30, 2005

Courthouse Website Gets In Shape

Courthouse Website Gets In Shape

Courthouse Racquet and Fitness ClubÂ’s new website, www. mscourthouse. com, offers a variety of features designed to benefit their members and other visitors, such as interactive fitness and tournament forums, fitness articles, healthy recipes, new exercise techniques, and more.

Jackson, MS (PRWEB) April 24, 2004 -

– It may not be much of a workout, but pointing and clicking can generate a wealth of information on health, fitness, and sports training. Courthouse Racquet and Fitness Club’s new website, www. mscourthouse. com, offers a variety of features designed to benefit their members and other visitors, such as interactive fitness and tournament forums, fitness articles, healthy recipes, new exercise techniques, and more.

“Our members are our number one priority,” said Tom Williams, CFO of Courthouse Racquet and Fitness, “and our website is a convenient tool they can use to get information about our upcoming events, activity schedules, personal trainers, and tournaments.” He said the site has a number of helpful features, including printable calendars for group activities such as aerobics, aquatics, cycling, and basketball, plus detailed information about facilities at each of the Courthouse locations.

U. S. NetworX created the website. "We designed the site navigation to be user-friendly, and we included a fitness forum so users can discuss sports and health topics online, post questions, and even find a tennis or racquetball match," said CEO David Crawford. “There is also an auto-reply form where visitors can ask about becoming a member."

Courthouse Racquet and Fitness has four locations in metro Jackson, including Byram, Cypress Lake, Lakeland Drive, and Northeast. Members can enjoy a wide array of activities, such as tennis, swimming, weightlifting, racquetball, cycling, group exercise, basketball, and more. There are also organized events, swim lessons, and sports clinics for children and adults.

U. S. NetworX is a provider of e-business services such as website design, maintenance, and hosting, databases, intranets, website marketing, and dedicated servers, as well as nationwide Internet access. Their website is located at www. usnx. com, and they presently have clients in 37 states and several foreign countries.

Wednesday, June 29, 2005

Introducing TV Medical Reports, an Innovative Way for Television Stations to Download Emmy Award-Winning Health Reports

Introducing TV Medical Reports, an Innovative Way for Television Stations to Download Emmy Award-Winning Health Reports

News Directors and Producers can download up to three reports per week from our award-winning medical reporter Dr. Brian McDonough. Dr. McDonough is a practicing family physician and a TV veteran with more than 20-years experience nationally.

Philadelphia, PA (Vocus) March 10, 2010

Coast to Coast Concepts, Inc. is proud to announce the launch of TV Medical Reports, a new way for television stations to generate content for their newscasts and/or local programming without hiring additional personnel. Stations can download up to three medical reports per week produced by Emmy Award-winning medical reporter, Brian McDonough, M. D.

“Unfortunately, with shrinking advertising revenues and decreasing newsroom budgets, it's harder for General Managers and News Directors to produce fresh, relevant content for airing,” says Joel Adler, president of TVMedicalReports. com. “We understand the predicament and are offering a terrific solution.”

In addition to being a practicing family physician, for more than 20 years, in the Philadelphia area, Dr. McDonough is one of the most respected broadcast journalists providing the country with concise and accurate medical reports. In addition to his expert television reports, Dr. McDonough also provides daily medical reports on more than 650 radio stations nationwide including all-news powerhouses WINS-AM in New York and KYW-AM in Philadelphia. He is also the recipient of four prestigious Emmy Awards.

"Dr. Brian McDonough has the unique ability to make complicated medical topics understandable to the rest of us. He also possesses a comfortable, genuine presence on the air. Brian is consistently up-to-date on the latest medical research and able to explain to patients, viewers and listeners how that research is likely to impact them," says George Mallet, Anchor/Reporter at NBC Milwaukee.

“My goal is to provide quality reports and become a part of your community,” said Brian McDonough, M. D. “Most importantly, they will be medically accurate.”

News Directors and Producers can use up to three of Dr. McDonough's medical reports for their newscasts each week by just signing up for the service and downloading the reports from the website, TVMedicalReports. com. 

Medical reports command a premium from sponsors. It's a perfect way to increase station revenue and increase ratings. For more information, please visit http://www. TVMedicalReports. com.

About TV Medical Reports
TV Medical Reports is a subsidiary of Coast to Coast Concepts, Inc., a leader in broadcast syndication and sales since 1995. Our reporters and staff have the knowledge to send out accurate, relevant, and professionally produced segments that can be dropped into any broadcast as needed. 

Contact:
Joel A. Adler
(888) 722-4223

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Local Company Offers Exclusive PowerPay! WNY Energy Program to Area Businesses

Local Company Offers Exclusive PowerPay! WNY Energy Program to Area Businesses

Energy Curtailment Specialists, Inc. (ECS), the largest privately held demand response provider in the country and headquartered in Buffalo, is allocating $5 million to local businesses as part of their effort to fund demand response initiatives of larger WNY electricity end-users, make Buffalo a “greener” city, and boost the economy.

Buffalo, NY (Vocus) August 19, 2008

At a time when Buffalo’s economy is on the decline and energy costs continue to rise, one local company with a typically national marketplace is offering a solution specifically tailored to Western New York businesses. Energy Curtailment Specialists, Inc. (ECS), the largest privately held demand response provider in the country and headquartered in Buffalo, is allocating $5 million to local businesses as part of their effort to fund demand response initiatives of larger WNY electricity end-users, make Buffalo a “greener” city, and boost the economy.

ECS is encouraging businesses in WNY to join their demand response program, PowerPay! WNY, an energy conservation program that pays participants for their efforts in energy reduction during times of high electric demand, to take advantage of the dollars available.

“Being a Buffalo-based company and understanding the current rough patch in our economy, we are very excited to offer area businesses the opportunity to reap the benefits of PowerPay! WNY,” said Glen Smith, Buffalo native and co-founder, president, and chief executive officer of ECS. “It’s great to be able to spark the economy and put Western New York in the national spotlight for something positive.”

PowerPay! WNY is a risk-free, no-cost program designed for larger energy users in WNY. This typically includes industrial, educational, health care, hotels, large retail and commercial facilities. At times when the electric grid is unstable, which only occurs once or twice a year on average, ECS will call on PowerPay! participants to cut back their electricity usage for a short period of time to relieve the stress on the grid. Not only will customers save money on their monthly electric bills, but they will also receive direct payments from ECS. “We have essentially equated the ability of a larger electricity user to shift its demand for electricity a couple times a year from high peak to off peak periods to a power plant supplying power to the grid,” said Smith, adding “it is a simple recognition that reducing demand in these grid-tenuous times is as good, if not better, than simply adding more supply to what is already an over-extended transmission infrastructure.”

ECS anticipates positive feedback from local businesses and plans to add an extra $5 million to the more than $50 million they have paid out in the past five years to its participants across the country.

“We have been participating in a program similar to PowerPay! New York for a number of years and are proud of the success we have had in reducing our electricity consumption through the years,” said Jim Mills, director of engineering and safety of Allied Frozen Foods, located on Broadway Avenue in Buffalo. “ECS is a great local company with a knowledgeable and friendly team, making our participation in demand response extremely easy.”

About Energy Curtailment Specialists, Inc.
ECS offers turnkey, administrative, and a la carte demand response services. Energy Curtailment Specialists is currently serving markets in all of New York, California, New England, Kansas City, PJM territories, and Ontario, Canada. For more information, please call 877-711-5453, or visit us on the web at www. ecsgrid. com

Media Contact
Tracey Penner
Communications Specialist, ECS
877-711-5453 x233
Tpenner(at)ecsgrid. com

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Is a Tummy Tuck Right for Me? Alabama Plastic Surgeon Dr. David Durst Offers Tips as the Popularity of Surgical Cosmetic Enhancement Continues to Rise

Is a Tummy Tuck Right for Me? Alabama Plastic Surgeon Dr. David Durst Offers Tips as the Popularity of Surgical Cosmetic Enhancement Continues to Rise

A study from the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery indicates a 162 percent increase in aesthetic enhancement procedures from 1997 to 2008. With the popularity of cosmetic surgery continuing to rise, many men and women consider a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) to achieve a flat, shapely stomach, but are unsure whether procedure is appropriate for their needs. At his practice offering plastic surgery in Huntsville, Alabama, Dr. David Durst offers some tips before making a decision.

Huntsville, Ala. (Vocus) February 15, 2010

A recent study from the ASAPS shows a significant increase in surgical and non-surgical aesthetic enhancement procedures between 1997 and 2008. One of the most popular procedures performed was the tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), indicating the age-old desire for many men and women to have a flat, smooth abdomen. Unfortunately, the abdominal region is one of the toughest areas of the body to flatten and tone. Sometimes even a healthy diet and regular exercise do not yield the desired results. People considering tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) in Huntsville may wonder if plastic surgery is the right solution for their needs. Cosmetic surgeon Dr. David L. Durst has been practicing in Alabama for over twenty years and says he knows how men and women can achieve a trimmer, shapelier stomach when stubborn fat and excess skin won’t go away through traditional means.

Dr. Durst says one important factor to consider right away is that the tummy tuck is not intended as a weight loss procedure. The tummy tuck should only be considered by men and women who have tried to tone their midsections through diet and exercise but have still noticed little to no improvement. Although it is important to determine if dieting and exercise can have an effect on the shape of the abdomen prior to surgery, Dr. Durst says men and women should not feel guilty if these methods fail to work. Fat deposits that accumulate in the abdomen are often very unresponsive even for those who follow a rigorous workout regime.

One of the most qualified and highly regarded plastic surgeons in Huntsville, Dr. David Durst says tummy tuck and mini-tummy tuck procedures can give patients the flatter, smoother stomach that they’ve always wanted, and help them achieve an athletic-looking midsection. Once patients are as close to their ideal body weight as possible, Dr. Durst says a traditional tummy tuck procedure can be an excellent solution for those who have excess abdominal skin above and below the belly button. On the other hand, the mini tummy tuck may be appropriate for men and women with excess skin below the belly button but not above. In both procedures, the abdominal muscles are tightened, excess skin is removed, and, if necessary, fat deposits are suctioned away via liposuction. Because the traditional tummy tuck requires a larger incision, Dr. Durst says these patients should plan for a longer recovery time than mini tummy tuck patients.

Some men and women may be especially good candidates for the tummy tuck procedure. Those who have undergone weight loss surgery can benefit from having their abdominal muscles tightened and excess skin removed during a tummy tuck. Also, many new moms are appropriate candidates for a tummy tuck procedure to reverse some of the physical effects that pregnancy has had on their bodies.

In addition to tummy tuck surgery, Dr. Durst also offers a range of other procedures - such as breast enhancement, facial rejuvenation, and laser skin treatments - that are designed to help women and men achieve the look they want and feel better about their appearance.

About Dr. David L. Durst
Dr. David L Durst opened his Huntsville breast augmentation and tummy tuck practice back in 1987. For more than twenty years he has performed comprehensive treatments for the face, breasts, body, and skin. Dr. Durst graduated from the University of Missouri Medical School and completed both his general and plastic surgery residencies at the University of Kentucky. He is a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Dr. Durst’s practice can be reached by phone at 256-881-4200 or by filling out the contact form on his website. His practice is located at 4011 Balmoral Dr., Huntsville, Alabama, 35801. http://www. drdurst. net.

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New Animal Blood Bank in South Florida Opens Doors, Seeks Donors

New Animal Blood Bank in South Florida Opens Doors, Seeks Donors

Animal blood bank providing critical blood products for veterinarians seeks volunteer canine and feline blood donors. Animal CPR and first aid classes are also available to the public. Community assistance is needed.

(PRWEB) January 30, 2004

“Has your dog thought about giving blood lately?” We asked this question of dozens of people at Markham Pet Festival 2004 this January in Sunrise, Florida. Many people gave us quizzical looks, and then said, “Gee, I guess he’s never thought about it…tell me more.”

For the most part, when animals are in need of an emergency transfusion the veterinarian’s personal pooch is the donor. This works well if there is a very infrequent need for blood, only small amounts are needed, and whole blood is the treatment of choice. However, animals with severe trauma may require several units of blood. Also, most animals don’t need whole blood – they only need parts of it, like the cells or the plasma. And all too often, there just isn’t blood to spare.

Sun States Animal Blood Bank is the newest animal blood bank, and the only animal blood bank operating in Florida. We are a non-profit corporation that provides canine blood and blood components and feline blood products as well as CPR, Advanced Life Support, and First Aid training for humans and animals. All of our donor animals are volunteer donors – we do not maintain a stable of greyhounds in the back! This means that we need YOUR help and support if we are to carry on our mission of providing life-saving blood products to those in need.

There are only four other animal blood banks in the US, and the next closest one is in Maryland. While all of the blood banks provide excellent service, there is still a tremendous shortage of blood products for animals. We hope not to compete with the others but to help fill the gap between animal blood needs and the available blood supply.

You can help by signing up your animal to be a donor. Your dog should be greater than one year of age, weigh at least 50 pounds, be current in their vaccinations and heartworm preventative, and be in good general health. Your veterinarian (or one of our staff veterinarians) can certify their health history. The donation process is very simple and takes only a few minutes. Anyone who’s ever donated blood in a human blood drive will recognize the process and the collection equipment – we use the same products the Red Cross does. The animals tolerate the procedure quite well. After they’re finished donating, they get a cookie, you get some orange juice, and everyone’s on their way home. As a further measure of our gratitude, every animal who donates blood is eligible for a free unit of blood product for every unit donated for life if they should ever need it.

There are many places in which your animal can donate blood. Sun States holds regular blood drives in conjunction with important animal events in the Broward County area (soon to be in Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties), at local animal hospitals, and at the Sun States office. Feel free to drop by with your dog on Sunday afternoons, when our office is open from 2 to 5 PM to donate blood. Appointments are not necessary. WeÂ’ll also do private parties! Collect a group of friends and their pets and we will come to you. You can find our Registration & Health Assessment forms on our website at http://www. ssabb. com/forms/CanineReg. pdf (http://www. ssabb. com/forms/CanineReg. pdf). Or you can e-mail us at rick@ssabb. com.

If you are a veterinary clinic, grooming salon, pet store, or doggy day care and would like to host a blood drive, please contact us and weÂ’d be happy to arrange it. We will arrive with all staff and equipment necessary, and can set up in an unused room or even in the parking lot of your facility. You can reach Sun States Animal Blood Bank at (954) 630-2231. Thank you so much for giving the gift of life!

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Citizens, Inc. Net Income Increases 581%

Citizens, Inc. Net Income Increases 581%

Austin, Texas – November 8, 2001 – Citizens, Inc. (AMEX: CIA), reported net income of $2.5 million or $0.10 per share for the first nine months of 2001, a 581.2% increase over $360,000 or $0.01 during the same period in 2000. New cash value life insurance premiums have increased by 20% in 2001 over the prior period. An increase in investment income and decline in accident and health benefits during the period combined with the growth in premiums contributed to the improvement in 2001 operating results.

(PRWEB) November 10, 2001

Investment income grew 9.2% during the nine-month period of 2001 to $10.1 million as a result of expansion of the CompanyÂ’s asset base and the actions taken to change the mix and duration of invested assets during the past year. Premium income increased during the period to $38.8 million. New life insurance premiums offset a 29.5% decline in accident and health premiums resulting from managementÂ’s decision in prior years to cancel a large portion of the CompanyÂ’s individual major medical and group dental blocks of business due to adverse claims experience. Claims and surrenders for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2001 declined 9.9% to $21.6 million from $24.0 million in 2000 as a result of the cancellation of the accident and health business.

Third quarter 2001 net income was $1.4 million, or $0.05 per share, a 474.3% increase over a net loss of $287,000, or $(0.01) per share, for the same period in 2000. New production of whole life insurance premiums measured in paid, annualized premiums increased 25% during the quarter while death claims decreased 44.7%. Revenues for the quarter increased $700,000 to $17.6 million, compared to $16.9 million for the same period in 2000.

Investment income in the third quarter of 2001 grew 8.9% to $3.5 million compared to $3.2 million for the same period in 2000. Accident and health premiums declined $500,000, or 30%, due to cancellation of the major medical and dental blocks of business. Death claims decreased as a result of reduced claim volume and smaller claim amounts. Premium income increased 2.5% during the quarter to $13.9 million, compared to $13.6 million in 2000 as the increased production of new life premium exceeded the decline in accident and health revenues.

Total assets increased to $287.2 million at September 30, 2001 from $267.8 million at December 31, 2000. StockholdersÂ’ equity reached $83.0 million compared to $77.3 million at December 31, 2000. Income earned in the first nine months of 2001 and increases in the market value of the CompanyÂ’s available-for-sale bond portfolio were the primary reasons for the increase in equity.

About Citizens, Inc.

Citizens, Inc. is a financial services company listed on the American Stock Exchange under the symbol CIA. Its growth strategy is to achieve $1 billion in assets, $250 million in revenues and $10 billion of life insurance in force by 2010 targeting the sale of U. S. dollar whole life insurance policies in the United States as well as world-wide and through the acquisition of other life insurance companies.

Citizens is included in the Russell 2000® Index, which measures the performance of the largest companies in the U. S. stock market, based on market capitalization. Citizens’ stock closed at $9.30 on November 7, 2001.

Additional information is available at the CompanyÂ’s web site: www. citizensinc. com.

More -

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 

Joel H. Mathis

Vice President

Public Relations and Investor Relations

Post Office Box 149151

Austin, Texas 78714-9151

PR@citizensinc. com

 (512) 837-7100

Information herein contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which can be identified by words such as “may”, “will”, “expect”, “anticipate” or “continue” or comparable words. In addition, all statements other than statements of historical facts that address activities that the Company expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Readers are encouraged to read the SEC reports of the Company, particularly its Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2000, for the meaningful cautionary language disclosing why actual results may vary materially from those anticipated by management.

CITIZENS, INC.

COMPARATIVE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

OPERATING STATEMENTS

 (Unaudited)Nine-Months EndedSeptember 30, (Unaudited)Three-Months EndedSeptember 30,

 2001 2000 2001 2000

Premiums and Other Revenues

Premium income $38,819,800 $38,798,671 $13,892,419 $13,558,646

Net investment income 10,110,224 9,257,159 3,489,266 3,204,023

Other  488,240  611,042  201,049  128,363

Total revenues $49,418,264 $48,666,872 $17,582,734 $16,891,032

Benefits and Expenses

Increase in future policy benefit reserves $ 4,702,073 $ 4,615,938 $ 1,383,049 $ 2,145,261

Claims and surrenders 21,606,679 23,969,251 7,445,642 8,899,271

Policyholder dividends 2,301,322 2,129,379 905,569 836,021

Commissions 9,633,958 8,822,030 3,663,972 3,217,551

Underwriting and insurance expenses 7,879,929 7,729,985 2,514,909 2,443,061

Net change in deferred policy acquisition costs (1,635,902) (424,607) (855,703) (520,028)

Other  1,536,674 1,697,659  579,953  491,775

Total benefits and expenses  46,024,733 48,539,635 15,637,391 17,512,912

Income (loss) before federal income tax $ 3,393,531 $ 127,237 $ 1,945,343 $ (621,880)

Federal income tax expense (benefit) $ 930,000 $  (234,398) $ 585,000 $ (335,073)

Net income (loss) $ 2,463,531 $ 361,635 $ 1,360,343 $ (286,807)

INCOME (LOSS) PER SHARE(UNAUDITED)

Net income (loss) per share $0.10 $0.01 $0.05 $(0.01)

Average shares outstanding 25,128,158 25,128,158 25,128,158 25,128,158

BALANCE SHEETS

 (Unaudited)September 30, 2001 (Unaudited)June 30,2001 (Unaudited)March 31,2001 December 31,2000 (Unaudited)September 30, 2000

Total assets $287,194,989 $273,276,061 $270,633,059 $267,842,364 $261,556,405

Total invested assets $203,106,657 $197,071,562 $196,214,529 $194,203,327 $186,896,625

Stockholders' equity $ 82,973,203 $ 78,991,654 $ 79,325,947 $ 77,313,031 $ 73,836,647

Tuesday, June 28, 2005

Infectious Disease Experts Offer Advice to Prevent and Treat Lyme Disease

Infectious Disease Experts Offer Advice to Prevent and Treat Lyme Disease

It's tick season, but gardeners, hikers, and others enjoying the great outdoors shouldn't let concerns about Lyme disease keep them inside. A few tips to keep ticks away, and some advice from infectious diseases doctors about Lyme disease, should help you enjoy the spring and summer weather, according to the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA), a medical professional association representing the nation's foremost experts in Lyme and other infectious diseases.

Arlington, VA (PRWEB) May 2, 2008

It's tick season, but gardeners, hikers, and others enjoying the great outdoors shouldn't let concerns about Lyme disease keep them inside. A few tips to keep ticks away, and some advice from infectious diseases doctors about Lyme disease, should help you enjoy the spring and summer weather, according to the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA), a medical professional association representing the nation's foremost experts in Lyme and other infectious diseases.

"With tick season upon us, it's important to put Lyme disease into perspective," said Gary P. Wormser, MD, chairman of the IDSA expert panel on Lyme disease and chief, division of infectious diseases, department of medicine, New York Medical College, Valhalla. "The vast majority, more than 95 percent, of people who do contract the disease are easily treated and cured with short-term antibiotic therapy."

Lyme disease (Borrelia burgdorferi) is a bacterial infection transmitted by a particular type of tick that typically feeds on small mammals, birds and deer but may also feed on cats, dogs and humans. Although the disease has been reported in nearly all states, most cases are concentrated in the Mid-Atlantic and northeast states. A number of cases also have been reported in Wisconsin, Minnesota and northern California.

Most people who are infected have a circular, red rash surrounding the site of a tick bite, swelling in their joints and, sometimes, facial paralysis. "The symptoms are sometimes alarming, but with proper diagnosis and treatment almost all will go away in a few weeks," Dr. Wormser said.

Preventing Lyme Disease

"The best method for managing Lyme disease is to avoid tick-infested areas. If exposure to ticks is unavoidable, measures should be taken to decrease the risk that ticks will attach to the skin," he said. Some simple steps to avoid the tick bites that cause Lyme disease include:

-- Wear protective, light-colored clothing that minimizes exposed skin and provides a contrast to ticks, making them more visible.
-- If you are outdoors and may have been exposed to ticks, check your entire body every day to locate and remove ticks.
-- Use tick and insect repellents and apply them to your exposed skin and clothing, following directions on product labels.

Treating Lyme Disease

Persons who remove attached ticks should be monitored closely for signs and symptoms of tick-borne diseases for up to 30 days. Single-dose doxycycline therapy may be considered for deer tick bites when the tick has been on the person for at least 36 hours.

Most patients who develop Lyme disease are cured with a single course of 14-28 days of antibiotics, depending on the stage of their illness. Occasionally a second course of treatment is necessary. More prolonged antibiotic therapy is not recommended and may be dangerous, according to Dr. Wormser.

"Nearly all people - more than 95 percent - who do get sick with Lyme disease and are treated with the recommended course of antibiotics get better and go on with their lives," said Dr. Wormser, lead author of IDSA's 2000 guidelines on Lyme disease. He also is chair of the expert panel currently considering revisions to the guidelines, which are due out later this summer. The expert panel reviews the published scientific literature related to the topic before reaching consensus on guideline recommendations.

Chronic or Post-Lyme Disease Syndrome

A small number of patients report a variety of non-specific symptoms such as generalized pain, joint pain or fatigue following an episode of Lyme disease that has been treated appropriately.

Some physicians advocate treating these patients with repeated or prolonged courses of oral or intravenous (IV) antibiotics, but Dr. Wormser cautioned that "there are no convincing published data showing such treatment to be effective."

Furthermore, long-term antibiotic therapy may be dangerous and it also can lead to drug-resistant superbugs that are impossible to treat, he added.

"These patients with symptoms that persist for weeks, months or longer appear to be a heterogeneous group, and they report non-specific symptoms that also are associated with a number of other medical diseases, both infectious and noninfectious," he said.

Patients who continue to have symptoms that persist after appropriate antibiotic treatment for Lyme disease should talk to their physicians about whether the diagnosis was accurate or if they may have a different or new illness.

More information about Lyme disease--including a fact sheet for the public and practice guidelines for physicians--can be found on the IDSA website at www. idsociety. org.

IDSA is an organization of physicians, scientists and other health care professionals dedicated to promoting human health through excellence in infectious diseases research, education, prevention and patient care. Major programs of IDSA include publication of two journals, The Journal of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Infectious Diseases, an Annual Meeting, awards and fellowships, public policy and advocacy, practice guidelines and other membership services. The Society, which has 8,000 members, was founded in 1963 and is headquartered in Arlington, VA.

Media Contacts:
Gina Czark
Monica Charleston
312/558-1770

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Monday, June 27, 2005

Mayo Clinic Health Solutions' Online Health Management Programs Demonstrate Effectiveness in Behavior Change - More Employers Seeking Ways to Improve Workplace Health as Health Care Costs Continue to Rise

Mayo Clinic Health Solutions' Online Health Management Programs Demonstrate Effectiveness in Behavior Change - More Employers Seeking Ways to Improve Workplace Health as Health Care Costs Continue to Rise

Health insurance premiums for 2006 rose 7.7 percent in the United States -- twice the rate of inflation. With employers still bearing most of the burden of health care costs, many employers are seeking cost-effective strategies, such as corporate wellness or employee health programs, to help employees become healthier. By helping employees reduce health risks, employers can better manage health care costs.

ROCHESTER, Minn. (PRWEB) January 19, 2007

Health insurance premiums for 2006 rose 7.7 percent in the United States -- twice the rate of inflation. With employers still bearing most of the burden of health care costs, many employers are seeking cost-effective strategies, such as corporate wellness or employee health programs, to help employees become healthier. By helping employees reduce health risks, employers can better manage health care costs.

A new survey on the impact of Mayo Clinic Health Solutions' online population health management programs shows significant outcomes in helping users make healthy lifestyle changes that can reduce health risks. Survey results representing the experience of nearly 2,000 users of the online health management programs indicate that the programs helped users:

Learn new, healthy lifestyle skills Make positive behavior changes Increase their confidence in their ability to continue healthy behaviors Proactively communicate with their health care provider about specific unhealthy lifestyle behaviors

Enrollees were surveyed in three health management programs -- Fitness for EveryBody, Healthy Weight and My Smoke-Free Future. Key findings include:

Fitness for EveryBody Program

73 percent increased their exercise level 78 percent learned a new behavior change skill that will help in the long-term maintenance of regular exercise 76 percent indicated they are confident in their ability to maintain regular exercise

Healthy Weight Program

53 percent indicated the program helped them meet their weight-loss goal 65 percent are making healthier food choices 76 percent learned a new behavior change skill that will help them maintain their weight loss

My Smoke-Free Future

31 percent quit smoking 38 percent reduced the number of cigarettes smoked 71 percent learned a new behavior change skill that will help them in the future 23 percent made an appointment to discuss smoking with their health care provider

The data also revealed that individuals who participated in more than one program (Fitness for EveryBody and Healthy Weight) were more likely to make healthier food choices than if they participated in just one program.

Online health management programs are an integrated component of the Mayo Clinic EmbodyHealth portal and are a key part of Mayo Clinic Health Solutions' vision for effecting behavior change, as well as for creating smarter, more empowered health consumers.

For more information, contact Mayo Clinic Health Solutions at 1-800-430-9699 (toll free).

About Mayo Clinic Health Solutions

Mayo Clinic Health Solutions extends Mayo Clinic's expertise to people throughout their lives. By drawing upon the experience of teams of Mayo Clinic experts, Mayo Clinic Health Solutions develops and provides solution-oriented products and services designed to improve people's health. Its broad array of offerings includes solutions for population health management (health risk assessment, behavior change programs and self-care tools), consumer health education (www. MayoClinic. com), books and newsletters, health benefits administration (third-party administration, health savings accounts and pharmacy benefit management), pharmacy services, and medical supplies. Additionally, Mayo Clinic Health Solutions transfers medical expertise, intellectual property, and innovation into medical devices and products that help people across the globe. For more information, visit www. MayoClinicHealthSolutions. com.

To obtain the latest news releases from Mayo Clinic, go to www. mayoclinic. org/news (http://www. mayoclinic. org/news). MayoClinic. com (www. mayoclinic. com) is available as a resource for your health stories.

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Shining a Light on Breast Awareness Exclusively at Sephora Canada

Shining a Light on Breast Awareness Exclusively at Sephora Canada

THINK: World leader in hand-held light devices launches Tända Breastaware™ Light Head to enhance breast self-examination and support early detection of breast cancer.

(PRWEB) October 21, 2010

WHAT IT IS:  Harmless red LED light is shone through the breast, illuminating the tissue and enabling women to become familiar with an internal view of their breasts and to track changes over time.

The Tända Breastaware™ Light Headgives women a new view of their breasts to enhance their existing breast awareness routine. The light head is attached to the Tända hand piece and placed underneath the breast, illuminating the breast tissue with red LED light. The tissue will glow a bright red and veins and blood vessels will appear as dark lines. Repeating the routine over time, women will become familiar with the internal view of their breasts and be able to notice changes. If any significant changes are noted, such as the appearance of dark spots or shadows, women are advised to contact their family physician and report the changes.

Breast cancer is the #1 cancer among Canadian women. In 2010 alone, an estimated 23,300 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer and 5,300 will die of it. Health care professionals agree that early detection is vital because when cancer is found early there is usually a better chance of successful treatment.

In addition to regular breast screening, women are also encouraged to be breast aware. This means knowing how your breasts normally look and feel so that you are able to identify any changes and have them checked out by a doctor. The Tända Breastaware™ Light Head is one more way that women can be empowered to increase their breast awareness.

It is important to note that this is not a replacement for a woman’s normal breast awareness routine nor is it a replacement for regular clinical breast examinations or regular screening mammograms. The intention is to encourage breast awareness by augmenting existing tools and procedures with this new illuminating technology that can now be made available to women in their homes.

The Tända Breastaware™ Light Head works with all Tända devices currently sold at Canadian retailers. It is available FREE with the purchase of any Tända device kit at Sephora stores and tandaskincare. com for a limited time during the month of October for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

ABOUT PHAROS LIFE: Pharos Life Corporation is the world’s largest developer and manufacturer of hand held light therapy products. Sold under the brand name Tända, products also include treatments for acne, anti-aging and pain management. The company is dedicated to the development of innovative light-based technologies and the supply of affordable, at-home, non-invasive light therapy solutions that improve wellness and quality of life.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
ROSE MASTNAK EXT. 258
COURTNEY TURNER EXT. 262
PHAROS LIFE CORPORATION
519.651.1177

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Sunday, June 26, 2005

The Answer to the Threatened Avian Flu Pandemic may be Under Our Nose

The Answer to the Threatened Avian Flu Pandemic may be Under Our Nose

If the outcomes of a preliminary study completed by a small Ohio biotech company can be quantified, the ability to respond efficiently to the dreaded Avian Flu may be right under our noses.

Albany, OH (PRWEB) February 16, 2006

Albany, Ohio - February 17, 2006 –  If the outcomes of an exploratory study completed by a small Ohio biotech company can be quantified, the ability to respond efficiently to the dreaded Avian Flu may be right under our noses. Using anomalous vocal patterns, the acoustic architecture of the voice is being uniquely investigated for its potential to model biological function, disease process and environmental exposures.

As remarkable as this idea may seem, groundbreaking studies have shown that the acoustic parameters of the voice have the capacity to provide biometric information regarding states of health. Omeris, a non-profit organization founded to build and accelerate bioscience research in Ohio, has recognized that vocal acoustic studies conducted by Sharry Edwards, MEd., through her company Sound Health, Inc., have “brought a revolutionary idea to the forefront of the Bioscience Community.” Preliminary studies completed by Edwards included vocal studies for exposures and susceptibility to invading pathogens.

Like any other contagion, the Avian Flu has an incubation period before actual symptoms occur. If exposure could be verified using vocal samples while the pathogen is still in its incubation stage, it is highly likely that destructive proteins created by the pathogen could be predicted before they become destructive.

The therapeutic potential of vocal profiling is the identification of pre-diagnostic biometrics which can be used to enhance or render inert, disease based biomarkers depending on the desired outcome. The research protocols have also provided information that can be used to develop a therapy phase using a set of designer frequencies which precisely targets a specific normalizing response.

The genomic frequencies and associated proteins associated with the threatened bird flu pandemic have been decoded by Edwards and her team, but as yet there is no general structure in place to allow the public to use the procedure. 

Assuming that the exploratory investigations with resistant pathogens can be extrapolated to encompass the Avian flu, this research modality may provide a means to identify the frequency signatures of the current strains and the on-going mutations in a matter of minutes.

One of the most important projects being slated is the development of an on-line vocal sampling program that could gather research data by testing for toxin or pathogen exposure. Using this method, strategically located centers throughout the world could systematically sample vocal patterns that would be reported to a central location. Exposure to the bird flu viruses could be monitored through established mathematical templates derived from the acoustic measurements of individuals or groups suspected of contamination.

Government and medical authorities have been uncertain that vaccination and/or antibiotic measures can successfully counter the unpredictable conduct, or the severity of the expected pandemic. With an annihilation threat as high as 40% for many populations, it is imperative that researchers be provided the means to explore solutions presently beyond the conventional medical system. All viable remedies need to be made available to the public in order to quell the near panic that is ensuing in some countries.

To date, Sound Health has supported the costs of this research but immediate funding for the expansion of systematic vocal profiling as a potential avenue to combat the expected epidemic needs to be vigorously applied. The risk to public health makes such funding mandatory. If the reported pandemic risks are authentic, our national security may depend on it.

A premier public issue of the peer-reviewed Journal BioAcoustic Biology(TM) can be found at www. jbab. org. Sound Health can be reached via email at: soundhealth@soundhealth. org or by phone at: 740-698-9119.

About Vocal Sampling and Analysis

Vocal analysis has been used experimentally by Sound Health for over twenty years to create individual frequency-based profiles that have supported outcomes that would be considered improbable using current medical standards.

For instance, independent nerve-muscle conduction tests (EMG’s) have confirmed the reestablishment of nerve transmission from the waist down for a Multiple Sclerosis patient who used vocal analysis and directed sound presentation as his primary therapy.

Vocal analysis has been used during two pilot studies to create protocols that were used to relieve the unrelenting fibromyalgia and back pain for long term sufferers.

Several prestigious research facilities have begun to embrace the innovative modality of vocal profiling to test the effects of new drugs, hormone levels and other biometric features of the body. The results promise to add significant confirmation to the idea that our bodies constitute a predictable system of BioAcoustic Biology(TM). Thus far, no research facility other than Sound Health has reported both pre-diagnostic and therapeutic outcomes based on vocal profiling.

Like Chemistry, that uses elements and compounds as its basis, BioAcoustic Biology uses vocal acoustics as the foundation to explain our frequency-based biological system. This methodology, christened Sonistry by Edwards, has the potential to significantly expand our understanding of the human body as a collection of predictable math-based compilations.

Edwards’ work has been received with both skepticism and admiration, but once the outcomes are observed, and they are significant and impressive to even the casual observer, the efficacy and reliability is obvious. Roman Chrucky, an MD who works with Edwards states, “Sharry has always been at least twenty years ahead of the rest of us. The world just needs to catch up to her genius.”

The frequency based principles of the voice are currently being investigated by many health related organizations such as Pfizer Pharmaceuticals and the Institute of Automatic Control Engineering in Taiwan. Complementary research, relating to molecular frequencies of both healthy and unhealthy cellular chemistry is being studied by James Gimjewski of the UCLA’s Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. Edwards believes that her contributions to the field of BioAcoustic Biology will show that human biology can be evaluated using the universal language of mathematics. Her supporters believe that her seminal work will be intimately involved in moving medicine forward.

Logically the establishment of a reliable model of BioAcoustic Biology, based on the quantitative analysis of human vocal patterns, will follow as a result of this emerging biometric approach to biological function, disease process and metabolism.

References

01. Rotman, David: “The Impact of Emerging Technologies: Can Pfizer Deliver.” Technology Review February, (2004).

02. Chiu CC, Chang HH, Yang CH. “Objective auscultation for traditional Chinese medical diagnosis using novel acoustic parameters.” Comput Methods Programs Biomed. Jun;62(2) (2000): 99-107.

03. Boguslavsky, J. “Biomarkers as Checkpoints.” Drug Discovery & Development. Sept (2004). 

04. Moore, C, S Shalet, K Manickam, T Williard, H Maheshwari, and G Baumann. "Voice abnormality in adults with congenital and adult-acquired growth hormone deficiency." J Clin Endocrinol Metab 90(7) (2005): 4128-4132.

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Saturday, June 25, 2005

Somerset Couple Launch First Organic Halal Meat Business for Muslims

Somerset Couple Launch First Organic Halal Meat Business for Muslims

After escaping the city to start a greener lifestyle, Neil & Nikki started to uncover some truths about the halal meat business. In response they have now launched their own company selling organic, ethically reared halal meat.

Somerset, UK (PRWEB) October 30, 2006

Having moved to the countryside in order to escape the hustle and bustle of London and to start a greener lifestyle, English Muslims Neil and Nikki Payne wanted to address their meat consumption. Unhappy with the quality of meat available in butchers and at the supermarkets, they had practically become vegetarian. There was always a suspicion that the much of the meat branded as "halal" (meaning slaughtered in accordance with Islamic principles) may not be truly halal. Having become smallholders virtually overnight in a small village in Somerset they started to buy and slaughter animals themselves to guarantee a compassionate ending and truly halal meat. Through conversations with breeders, abattoir owners and locals they soon discovered some uncomfortable truths about the halal meat industry which has resulted in them launching the UK's first organic halal meat company.

After taking the plunge in their early thirties to split from the capital, starting an organic halal meat business was the last thing on the minds of Neil and Nikki. However after witnessing first hand the lack of standards, ethics and principles in much of the halal meat industry they decided to address the problem. They took the plunge and invested their life savings in starting up Abraham Natural Produce, a company providing organic, ethically reared and halal meat. Although targeting the UK Muslim population the couple believe the idea has a wider appeal, especially to those interested in local, natural, good quality produce. One of the unique selling points for Abraham Natural Produce is that Neil went to the lengths of becoming a licensed slaughter man and now slaughters each and every animal himself, guaranteeing that all their meat is 100% genuine halal.

"We decided to set up the company as a service for people who think like us. Our target market is people who really care about the quality of the animals, their treatment, what they are fed on and how they are slaughtered. We are the only company that can tell a customer when and where their lamb was born, what breed it was, where it lived, what it ate, what air it breathed and who slaughtered it. Show me a halal butcher that can do that. In addition we also promote eco-friendly values, support local providers and donate a percentage of profits to charities that help feed the poor and underprivileged. Our business model is not profit driven but conscience driven," states Neil Payne.

The launch comes at a time when the public are showing more and more interest in organic and naturally-reared produce. Statistics show that in the period from 2005-2006, sales of organic produce grew an astonishing 30%. Abraham Natural Produce now addresses this issue for the UK Muslim population. On top of this the ethos of the company sits well with many voices that would like to see an end to the domination of the supermarkets in favour of local foods.

"You are what you eat," adds Neil, "so when you are eating flesh, something else's DNA, you need to be 100% positive that the animal was pure, healthy and above all happy."

For more information on Abraham Natural Produce, based in Somerset (UK) please visit their site at www. organic-halal-meat. com or call 01460 240411.

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Friday, June 24, 2005

YMCA Joins ScreenScape Community, Establishes YMCA Digital Signage Network

YMCA Joins ScreenScape Community, Establishes YMCA Digital Signage Network

Locations in Southern Ontario first YMCA branches to join community-based digital signage network

Hamilton, ON, Burlington, ON and Charlottetown, PE (PRWEB) August 3, 2010

YMCA of Hamilton/Burlington/Brantford announced today that they have chosen ScreenScape to power digital displays inside their branch locations and to stimulate interest in YMCA programs throughout the ScreenScape Community.

"We needed a communication system that would allow us to easily distribute up to date information on our programs, events and services not only to our branches but out to the community at large." said Chris Burr, General Manager of the Ron Edwards Family YMCA in Burlington. "We want each of our locations to complement our centrally-delivered content with their own custom messaging that applies to their location and ScreenScape allows us to do that simply and cost-effectively."

ScreenScape is the world's first community-based digital signage network. Businesses of all sizes and in a range of industries use ScreenScape for digital signage, media distribution, and advertising. As a software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform, ScreenScape enables non-technical users to turn any Internet-connected computer or screen into a dynamic digital display. Members of ScreenScape also form a collaborative community, which acts as a shared resource for content creation, exchange, cross promotion and, for many, advertising revenue.

"The community concept behind ScreenScape is very important to us." says Burr. "We now have the opportunity to engage with the other organizations in the ScreenScape Community to extend our marketing message. The ability to broadcast our community message to a wider audience is key in generating awareness about our programs, services, and donation campaigns."

"The YMCA epitomizes community and so it is no surprise that they have connected with ScreenScape." said Kevin Dwyer, ScreenScape President and CEO. "We are delighted to see them taking advantage of our solution to create their own content sharing network that promotes YMCA events and supports their donor outreach programs. As new YMCA chapters join ScreenScape they will be able to join and extend the reach of this network and form regional groups of their own. This is a great illustration of the power and flexibility of our community-based platform."

About YMCA
As one of the largest charitable community service organizations in Canada, the YMCA of Hamilton/Burlington/Brantford responds to critical social needs in the community and works to provide solutions. By nurturing the potential of children, youth and adults, the YMCA connects people to life-building opportunities, to each other and enhances their quality of life. We foster social responsibility and healthy living. The YMCA works collectively with community partners that share the YMCA's determination in strengthening the foundations of community for all people.

About ScreenScape Networks
ScreenScape is the first community-based digital signage network. Businesses of all sizes and in a range of industries use ScreenScape for digital signage, media distribution, and advertising. ScreenScape is a software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform, enabling members to turn any Internet-connected computer or screen into a dynamic digital display. Utilizing ScreenScape, companies can easily access, create, share and update content, while keeping the total cost of ownership low. Members of ScreenScape form a collaborative community, which acts as a shared resource for content creation, exchange, cross-promotion and advertising revenue.

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Medicare Prescription Drug Plans: Seniors Need Their Web-Savvy Boomer Children To Help Them Make an Informed Choice

Medicare Prescription Drug Plans: Seniors Need Their Web-Savvy Boomer Children To Help Them Make an Informed Choice

The December 31st deadline to enroll or change Medicare Prescription Drug plans is fast approaching. Unfortunately, seniors are still confused. The solution lies with their Boomer children getting involved to compare plans by using the Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Finder at www. medicare. gov. Here's what Boomers need to know.

San Mateo, CA (PRWEB) December 19, 2006

The first annual December 31st deadline for the new Medicare Prescription Drug Program (http://www. encoremgmt. com/medicarerx/whatyouneedtoknow. html) is fast approaching. Unfortunately, the complexity of the program has many seniors still confused.

"The best solution is for web-savvy Boomers to help their parents by using the Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Finder to systematically compare the 50 or so plan choices," says eldercare advisor Esther Koch who is also a Medicare Aging Network Partner with the Administration on Aging and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION BOOMERS NEED TO KNOW

Boomers first need to know exactly what type of healthcare coverage their parent has and whether it also includes prescription drug coverage. For seniors with an employer or union retiree health plan or a Medicare Advantage health plan, prescription drug coverage is likely to already be included. In these instances, there is probably nothing to do as long as the senior received notification that the drug coverage is 'creditable' coverage.

It is important to understand that there are two types of Medicare drug plans (http://www. encoremgmt. com/medicarerx/whatyouneedtoknow. html): Medicare Prescription Drug Plans (commonly referred to as 'stand alone' plans) and Medicare Advantage Plans. "The seniors that really need to review plans annually are those who have 'stand alone' Prescription Drug Plans," says Koch.

"The goal is to select a Prescription Drug Plan whose formulary covers all of a senior's drug needs," Koch points out. Since it is likely that a senior's drugs plus the plan's formulary, tier structure and pricing will change annually, that may not be the same plan each year.

MEDICARE PRESCRIPTION DRUG PLAN FINDER

Koch stresses, "The primary web-based tool is the Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Finder at www. medicare. gov." By entering their parent's zip code and drug names, dosage and 30-day supply, Boomers will obtain a prioritized list of their parent's plan options. They can even save their work and return to it.

Plan options will be sorted from least expensive to most expensive plan based on total estimated annual costs including premiums, deductibles, copays and coinsurance. Total costs vary widely by plan. Koch emphasizes, "Think of this as getting a list of the total cost of all of your holiday gifts if the same gifts were purchased from some 50 different retailers. You should be most interested in the least expensive plans."

In addition, Koch continues, "It is the total estimated annual cost that is most important, not just the amount of the monthly premium or whether donut hole coverage is included."

The five least expensive plans will show up initially. "You can show all plans, do side-by-side comparisons of up to 3 plans at a time, and drill down to more detailed information. Once you have analyzed options and decided on a plan, it is best to go to the plan's website to enroll," Koch points out.

SENIORS WITH LIMITED INCOME AND RESOURCES

Special rules apply to seniors with limited income and resources. These rules are very detailed so the best sources of assistance are:

Your parent's State Health Insurance Assistance Program at http://www. medicare. gov/contacts/static/allStateContacts. asp (http://www. medicare. gov/contacts/static/allStateContacts. asp) Social Security at www. socialsecurity. gov and 1-800-772-1213; and Medicare at www. medicare. gov and 1-800-MEDICARE.

CONCLUSION

Koch concludes, "This is an opportunity for Boomers to be there for their parents. They need you!"

For more information on Medicare Rx and how to use the Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Finder visit the Encore Management website at www. encoremgmt. com under the Medicare Rx tab.

ABOUT ESTHER KOCH

Esther Koch is a gerontologist and eldercare advisor. Her firm, Encore Management, provides personal and corporate advisory services and seminars to assist Boomers with the range of issues associated with caring for an aging parent and their own aging. Her media interviews and articles have appeared on television, radio and in print.

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Overstock Health Supplements Delivers Professional Solutions for Healthy Living

Overstock Health Supplements Delivers Professional Solutions for Healthy Living

Founder of OverstockHealthSupplements. com, Susan Ridlington is pleased to reveal the newest addition to her healthy-living focused Web site – an interactive blog. This counterpart will be used to provide shoppers with a Q&A platform orchestrated by Ridlington, who has more than 30 years of experience as a physical therapist. Visit the Web store today to purchase exercise equipment and nutritional supplements.

Kettle Falls, WA (Vocus) May 5, 2010

Web entrepreneur Susan Ridlington made her e-commerce debut in October 2009 with the launch of OverstockHealthSupplements. com. Today, she is pleased to announce the publication of her second online endeavor, which complements her original Web site as an informational blog, http://www. OverstockHealthSupplementsBlog. com.

The Web site’s brand-new, interactive blog has established an online Q&A platform for healthy-living seekers to frequent with their questions and comments. Answers, solutions and suggestions will be provided by Ridlington whose expertise is backed by more than 30 years of professional experience as a physical therapist.

Additionally, the counterpart will provide product recommendations, which can be purchased on the Web site, to alleviate a variety of common aliments and health-related problems. Plus, shoppers can look forward to the hopeful addition of videos – to be introduced in the distant future – produced by Ridlington that demonstrate an assortment of at-home stretching exercises.

Visit the Web store, OverstockHealthSupplements. com, to discover an abundance of nutritional products – omega capsules, colon cleanse powder, gluten-free bread mix and more – and pain relief products such as BioFreeze pain relief gel, heating pads, glucosamine supplements. ProVibrant supplements designed to keep they body’s stem cells strong may also be purchased; check out the green sea algae.

Don’t miss the site’s collection of Xoçai healthy chocolates! Shoppers can choose from protein bars, chocolate squares, cookies, energy drinks and more. Based off of the many health benefits of the açai berry, these nutritional supplements are a guilt-free pleasure that contains no fillers, preservatives, trans fats and are friendly to diabetics, vegans and those who are gluten intolerant.

The Web site also carries an assortment of at-home fitness equipment. Browse their collection of energizing exercise DVDs and On Demand video downloads to start the journey to a more toned body. Complement these fitness routines with the proper exercise tools such as dumbbells, ankle weights, resistance training bands, treadmills and more.

OverstockHealthSupplements. com, stay healthy and live better!

About the Company:
OverstockHealthSupplements. com is owned and operated by Web entrepreneur, Susan Ridlington. Based on the success of her web store, she hopes to one day donate an undisclosed percentage of her profits to charities that support neurological studies; specifically Parkinson’s disease and schizophrenia in honor of her family’s struggles with both conditions.

Susan Ridlington
Http://www. OverstockHealthSupplements. com
(509) 738-6077

IePlexus, Inc.
Http://www. iePlexus. com

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AP9 Connections Anticipates Upcoming CD Releases for Dave Mathews Band, Bruce Springsteen, Def Leopard and More

AP9 Connections Anticipates Upcoming CD Releases for Dave Mathews Band, Bruce Springsteen, Def Leopard and More

AP9 Connections from Adaptive Marketing LLC Provides Members with Significant Savings on Purchases of CDs, Other Entertainment

Stamford, CT (PRWEB) April 24, 2005

As the weather starts to warm up and the nation turns its winter-weary eyes toward summer amusements, members of AP9 Connections, a leading discount membership program offered by Adaptive Marketing LLC, can look forward to savings on a robust roster of new releases from a wide range of popular singers and bands.

In the coming months, millions of Americans will once again flock to their favorite summer getaway spots, and the vast majority of them will be bringing along their favorite tunes. Those vacationers who are members of AP9 Connections (http://www. connections-program. com/) can look forward to extra funds to spend on other amusements after they make their music purchases, thanks to a wide variety of money-saving entertainment benefits that they can access quickly and easily through DealPass. com.

To help you get in the swing of the season, AP9 Connections offers the following list of upcoming CD releases that are sure to please the ears of music lovers, young and old. (Please note that release dates are subject to change without notice.)

April 26: Ben Folds, “Songs for Silverman”; New Order, “Waiting for the Sirens’ Call”; John Prine, “Fair and Square”; Bruce Springsteen, “Devils & Dust”

May 3: Ryan Adams, “Cold Roses”; Aimee Mann, “The Forgotten Arm”; Nine Inch Nails, “With Teeth”; Stevie Wonder, “A Time to Love”

May 10: Dave Mathews Band, “Stand Up”; Robert Plant and the Strange Sensation, “Mighty Rearranger”; Weezer, “Make Believe”; Lucinda Williams, “Live at the Fillmore”

May 17: Toby Keith, “Honkytonk University”; Def Leppard, “Rock of Ages: The Definitive Collection”; Huey Lewis & The News, “Live at 25”; Van Morrison, “Magic Time”; various artists, “American Idol Season 4”

May 24 and beyond: The Black Eyed Peas, “Monkey Business”; Collective Soul, “From the Ground Up”; Oasis, “Don’t Believe the Truth”; The Wallflowers, “Rebel Sweetheart”; The White Stripes, “Get Me Behind Satan”; Dwight Yoakam, “Blame the Vain”

In addition to savings on purchases at major national music retailers, AP9 Connections members can also enjoy significant discounts on books, DVDs, restaurant dining, concert tickets, theme park visits and much more.

About AP9 Connections (http://www. connections-program. com/)

AP9 Connections is a leading membership discount program offered by Adaptive Marketing LLC. Headquartered in Stamford, Conn., Adaptive Marketing is a category leader in both membership and loyalty programs, bringing value direct to consumers through an array of benefits in healthcare, discounts, security, personal property and personals. Members may access their benefits at DealPass. com (http://www. dealpass. com), an online portal for Adaptive Marketing member programs. With broad online and offline distribution capabilities, Adaptive Marketing offers its corporate client partners effective tools to enhance market presence, strengthen customer affinity and generate additional value through programs, such as AP9 Connections.

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Friday, June 17, 2005

Evolve Provides Powerful HIPAA and OSHA Online Training Solutions for Health Clinics

Evolve Provides Powerful HIPAA and OSHA Online Training Solutions for Health Clinics

Health clinics that want to make employee training easier can take their training online with a learning management system from Evolve e-Learning Solutions.

Tulsa, OK (PRWEB) April 17, 2008

Health clinics with employee training problems can take their training online with a learning management system from Evolve e-Learning Solutions (http://www. ehipaatraining. com (http://www. ehipaatraining. com)). Managing paper files or manual databases for hundreds of employees could soon be a thing of the past with online training solutions for HIPAA and OSHA.

"Clinics typically train their employees on HIPAA and OSHA through videos, manuals, or instructor training in a traditional classroom system," said Preston Stiner, president of Evolve e-Learning. "Unfortunately, the training itself is time-consuming, and requires a lot of record-keeping that managers and administrators just don't have time to do."

Health clinics have numerous employee training requirements beyond typical new employee orientation. All employees must comply with HIPAA standards, or else the clinic risks hefty fines for noncompliance. Because the health care industry also has some of the highest accidents rates, OSHA training needs to be addressed.

"Instead of having to do your HIPAA training online and your OSHA training with a classroom instructor and your new employee orientation with videos, you can take all those courses through one provider," said Stiner. "It saves you from a record-keeping nightmare, because you have one centralized record for all your online training courses."

With HIPAA and OSHA online training courses (http://www. ehipaatraining. com), clinics can provide employees with the training they need without sacrificing productivity for classroom time.

"The front office staff, physicians, managers and nurse's assistants all have different schedules," said Stiner. "It takes an immense amount of time to get everybody trained to understand HIPAA and OSHA regulations. With online training, employees can learn at their own pace through the day. This eliminates the headache of trying to get key personnel into a classroom all at once."

Online training can go beyond HIPAA and OSHA compliance courses, and include EEO courses like sexual harassment. Clinics can also create their own courses through the learning management system, enabling them to train employees in organization-specific policy.

Make employee training easier today by registering for a free LMS demo at http://www. ehipaatraining. com (http://www. ehipaatraining. com), a service of Evolve e-Learning Solutions.

About Evolve e-Learning Solutions
Evolve e-Learning Solutions is a solutions provider of training systems and programs that allow organizations to maximize the potential of their employees, reduce administrative costs and accelerate their performance. Evolve has partnered with leading organizations within the e-learning industry to offer customers best-of-breed solutions to meet their training needs.

Press release provided by Xeal Inc. (http://www. xeal. com (http://www. xeal. com))

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Thursday, June 16, 2005

Horse Sense Receives National Magazine Recognition and Is First to Achieve New EAGALA Advanced Certification

Horse Sense Receives National Magazine Recognition and Is First to Achieve New EAGALA Advanced Certification

Horse Sense of the Carolinas is gaining national recognition in the field of Equine Assisted Psychotherpay and Learning. The full time staff at Horse Sense is now the first team in the United States to complete the new EAGALA Advanced Certification requirements.

Asheville, NC (PRWEB) March 5, 2007

In the most recent issue, NATURAL HORSE Magazine featured an interview with Horse Sense president, Shannon Knapp, titled "Horse Sense of the Carolinas-Not Just Another Pretty Place". In 1999, after more than three years of experience and research, NATURAL HORSE Magazine began to provide extensive information on the natural and holistic care, management and training of horses. The article addresses questions about Knapp's experience and history in the EAL and EAP industry. Knapp also mentions the March 14th release of her first in a series of books titled "Horse Sense, Business Sense - Hints and Hurdles to Starting Your Own Equine Assisted Program: The Early Years". 

In addition to national magazine coverage, Horse Sense of the Carolinas also became the first EAP organization in the country to complete the new EAGALA Advanced Certification. After seven years of success, the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA) restructured the EAGALA Certification Program to strengthen their commitment to setting a standard of excellence in the Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) and Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) fields. The newly designed program provides more in depth training and skill requirements for mental health professionals and equine specialists practicing EAP and other equine facilitated techniques.

In late 2006 all full-time members of the Horse Sense staff completed EAGALA Advanced Certification. Shannon Knapp, Robert Jacoby, Kacey Cramer and Laura Anthony each accomplished the advanced certification by reviewing previous training, completing over 150 hours of EAGALA client sessions and mentoring, publishing an article in the EAGALA News and attending the EAGALA Annual Conference. In March, the conference will be held in Ogden, Utah. Shannon Knapp, president of Horse Sense, will present a seminar entitled "Horse Sense, Business Sense". It will be an introduction to her new book and help attendees understand the fundamentals of starting, building and sustaining a successful EAP/EAL business. Robert P. Jacoby, M. S. EAP II, will speak on the topic of "Recovering the Self: Decoding the Therapeutic Process". This seminar discusses the psychotherapeutic process of healing and recovery, as well as, basic counseling theory. In order to maintain the EAGALA Advanced Certification, the Horse Sense staff will be required to complete 40 hours of continuing education every two years.

Horse Sense is located on a ninety-acre farm in Marshall, NC just outside the city of Asheville. Interested parties can visit and participate in monthly free demonstrations. Professionals interested in the business of EAP and EAL are invited to join Shannon Knapp's teleclasses held throughout the year. For more information on the teleclass schedule or the free public demos, visit our web site at http://wwww. HorseSenseOtc. com (http://wwww. HorseSenseOtc. com) and contact Shannon Knapp.

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Mount ST. Helens Eruption Imminent-Protect Your Pets Now

Mount ST. Helens Eruption Imminent-Protect Your Pets Now

Sleeping quietly for the last 24 years Mount ST. Helens in Toutle, Washington awoke Friday, October 1, 2004 with a resounding burp of steam and gas, warning the Pacific Northwest she's still a force to be reckoned with. After a sustained tremor and a release of sulfurous smelling gas and carbon monoxide around noon on Saturday it became clear St. Helens had the possibility of spewing super hot magma, rocks and ash farther than previously thought. The Level 2 Volcano Alert was raised to Level 3. You may know how to keep yourself safe but what about your pets?

Portland, OR (PRWEB) October 5, 2004

With the grumbling, growling and tremors within Mount ST. Helens growing more intense Saturday afternoon the United States Geographical Society (USGS) has raised the volcano alert from a Level 2 to the highest possible Level 3. Declaring an eruption imminent an estimated 2500 people were removed from the Johnston Ridge Observatory and the Loowit and Windy Ridge Viewpoints were closed.

Scientists expect the coming eruption to include gaseous new magma, rocks and ash fall. Communities in the outlying areas as far south as Portland have been warned to prepare for possible ash fall.

Volcanic ash is not a toxic substance but it can cause a great deal of damage if inhaled or rubbed in the eyes. It's corrosive, gritty and very unpleasant. Even though it can look like snow when it falls it doesn't just melt away. It gets into everything and can create health problems for both people and their animals. Pets, just like people, can develop respiratory problems or eye abrasions from ash particles. Animals that need to go outdoors during an ash fall or where ash has accumulated are the most susceptible.

If you live in an area where ash fall may occur take these safety precautions regarding your pets:

1. Store extra food and drinking water.

2. Keep extra medicine on hand.

3. Keep your animals under cover, if possible.

During an ash fall:

1. Keep pets indoors. If pets go out, brush or vacuum them before letting them indoors. Be sure to clean between the paw pads so they don't lick and ingest accumulated ash particles.

2. Make sure they are in a covered, enclosed area and have clean food and water if you are unable to bring them indoors.

3. Discourage active play in dusty settings.

For more information on pet care or safety information and preparation before a possible volcanic eruption go to:

"http://vulcan. wr. usgs. gov/Hazards/Safety/what_to_do_during_ashfall. html" (http://vulcan. wr. usgs. gov/Hazards/Safety/what_to_do_during_ashfall. html")
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Exuberil's Popularity Standing Firm as Leading All-Natural Antidepressant

Exuberil's Popularity Standing Firm as Leading All-Natural Antidepressant

According to an article that was published in the LA Times in early November, more adults are turning to alternative medicines, like Exuberil, to treat a variety of commonly experienced physical and mental ailments. Tantamount to these recent reports is the steadfast popularity of natural antidepressants like Exuberil--which has remained on top of the alternative medicine marketplace, nearly since the product was launched.

Manalapan, NJ (PRWEB) November 30, 2009

More Americans are switching over to alternative medicines to treat commonly experienced mental ailments such as anxiety, stress, insomnia and depression. According to a November 9th, 2009 article that was published in the Los Angeles Times, entitled, "Alternative medicine is becoming mainstream," the author purports that several expert reports, surveys and statistics have concluded that 40% more Americans are turning to alternative medicines to treat common ailments--as opposed to seeking a medical practitioner. In light of these astounding numbers of persons who are now seeking less traditional forms of medical treatment, popular and PROVEN, all-natural antidepressants, anti-stress and anti-anxiety supplements, like Exuberil, are currently enjoying rampant popularity, as well as steady sales, because they are actually treating the associated symptoms of these common mental ailments effectively, and without causing any known side effects or drug interactions.

The article further cites,

"Many Americans choose to treat themselves with complementary and alternative medicine in lieu of surgery, pharmaceuticals or other traditional care. Their numbers have been steadily climbing over the last decade. According to a July study from the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, based on interviews with more than 23,300 adults during the 2007 National Health Interview Survey, almost 40% of adults use some form of complementary and alternative medicine to treat a variety of conditions."

The article also cited a recent survey which found that, "Visits to practitioners overall have decreased by about 50% since 1997, with the biggest drop seen by providers of energy healing and relaxation techniques." (Source: Los Angeles Times, Internet, 2009; http://www. latimes. com/features/health/la-he-alternative-medicine9-2009nov09,0,5522507.story? track=rss (http://www. latimes. com/features/health/la-he-alternative-medicine9-2009nov09,0,5522507.story? track=rss).)

For Exuberil spokesperson, Tom Whitman, the rising numbers of Americans seeking alternative medicines like Exuberil comes as no shocker.

"Exuberil has enjoyed amazing popularity ever since we first launched the product line, under the mission statement of helping people naturally relieve the symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress and insomnia," Whitman says. "To find out that - according to these recent reports and surveys - more people are turning to nonprescription solutions, such as Exuberil, just further solidifies our position in the marketplace as an all-natural supplement that works as well (or more effectively) than costly RX medications that are riddled with dangerous side effects and or drug interactions."

Exuberil is an all-natural cure for depression and anxiety that is taken orally, once per day. It utilizes Suntheanine--the main active ingredient in Exuberil--which has been extensively researched and documented as being beneficial in significantly reducing physical, mental and social symptoms of depression, anxiety, insomnia, and irritability.

Exuberil also incorporates 5-HTP, Valerian, and Kava Kava--all which have been proven to significantly improve the symptoms of depression and to reduce anxiety and stress.

Exuberil does not contain ingredients that will induce lack of REM (rapid eye movement during sleep cycles), which are common side effects of the many prescribed antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs that are currently on the market.

Most users will feel noticeable results from taking Exuberil within the first four to six weeks of usage, when used as directed.

This all-natural supplement does not require a prescription, and is available over-the-counter (OTC) online at www. Exuberil. com.

About Exuberil:
 Developed by Pharmaxa Labs--a leading nutraceutical company  Exuberil's proprietary blend of ingredients are 100% natural GMP certified  Contains Suntheanine--the main active ingredient in Exuberil--which has been extensively researched and documented as being beneficial in significantly reducing physical, mental and social symptoms of depression, anxiety, insomnia, and irritability  Incorporates 5-HTP, Valerian, and Kava Kava, which have been proven to significantly improve symptoms of depression and reduce anxiety  Does not contain ingredients that will induce lack of REM (rapid eye movement during sleep cycles)  Non habit-forming; no withdrawal symptoms after cessation of usage  100% safe, effective and all-natural  Visit them online for generous discounts off retail pricing and to learn more at: http://www. Exuberil. com (http://www. Exuberil. com)

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CodePartners Values Relationship with The University of Texas at Dallas

CodePartners Values Relationship with The University of Texas at Dallas

CodePartners founder appointed to advisory board and speaks at technology career forum.

Dallas, TX (PRWEB) March 11, 2009

CodePartners, a software development firm, is pleased to announce the appointment of Brian Terrell, CPA and founder of CodePartners, to The University of Texas at Dallas' Information Systems area's Industry Advisory Board.

The advisory board will provide feedback on program activities and develop strategic partnerships. Brian Terrell was appointed due to his qualifications and experience. Other board members represent companies such as: Citigroup, Ericsson, HCA Health Care, Hitachi Consulting, HP/EDS, Pepsi, Perot Systems, and Sun Microsystems.

The first advisory board meeting was held March 6, 2009.

Additionally, Mr. Terrell served as a panelist at UTD's School of Management's MIS Technology Career Forum on March 10, 2009. The Career Forum is designed to help students develop an improved awareness about career options. Panelists, comprised of high caliber area business leaders, shared their expertise by offering specifics of what is demanded for various career paths. Following the presentations was a question and answer session.

"We see a tremendous value in the relationship we have with UTD," said Brian Terrell. "In addition to the advisory board and career forum participation, we attend the UTD career fairs, which have resulted in full-time employees and interns for our firm. The graduates are well prepared and make valuable contributions to our company."

About CodePartners
CodePartners is a Dallas, Texas-based firm specializing in software development and business process automation. By providing cutting-edge and affordable software programming services, CodePartners enhances the functionality and quality of products for their clients. For more information, please visit www. codepartners. com.

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Wednesday, June 15, 2005

Federal Lawsuit Alleges Abuse of the Medicare Program by the State of California and Seeks to Recover $20 Million in Damages

Federal Lawsuit Alleges Abuse of the Medicare Program by the State of California and Seeks to Recover $20 Million in Damages

Plaintiff claims cost-shifting of workers compensation obligations to Medicare created "work comp reform bubble" that is about to burst

LOS ANGELES (PRWEB) April 17, 2007

In a bold move documents were filed in the federal court serving Los Angeles alleging a joint partnership between the Adventist Health System and the State of California Department of Industrial Relations to defraud Medicare out of millions of dollars (see U. S. District Court for the Central District of California, NO. 2:06-CV-08253-GPS-FMO).

"It's sad it has to come to this but enough is enough," said Barbara Clark, a registered nurse practitioner, who is the plaintiff seeking damages under the Medicare Secondary Payment Act to "recover monies defrauded from Medicare", amongst other allegations contained in an amended complaint.

"In simple terms, I allege that the purported savings of the S. B. 899 workers' comp reforms have come by shifting the burden of medical care from workers compensation insurance companies and onto the back of Medicare," Clark cited, referring to the 2005 legislative reforms known as S. B. 899.

"The State of California is protecting private workers compensation insurance companies from their legitimate obligations to pay court ordered medical care. This is the great work comp reform accomplished by Gov. Schwarzenegger, creating an artificial economic bubble about to burst," Clark said.

"This is what we have been saying in the movie all along, all you have to do is spend an hour and watch it," said injured worker Larry Nign, the subject of the film, Almost Broken. Nign's film addresses many of the reform claims of S. B. 899 in 2005.

For more information visit:

Www. BarbClark. org, www. AlmostBroken. com, www. MyStateFundStory. com

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New Ads Tackle Meth With A Touch Of Horror

New Ads Tackle Meth With A Touch Of Horror

Wyoming Department of Health's Meth Campaign Strikes Fear In Wyoming Residents: To combat startling statistics Wyoming Department of Health tapped the creative talent of Denver-based Sukle Advertising & Design to visually capture the deadly dangers of meth. Difficult to watch, the ads resemble scenes from horror movies.

Denver, CO (PRWEB) February 26, 2007

New television ads employ horror and gore to fight overwhelming Methamphetamine use:

•5.9% of Wyoming middle school students have used methamphetamine at least once in the last 30 days (YRBS 2005)

•Wyoming law enforcement estimates 80-90 percent of investigated cases have a connection to methamphetamine use

To combat these startling statistics Wyoming Department of Health tapped the creative talent of Denver-based Sukle Advertising & Design to visually capture the deadly dangers of meth. Difficult to watch, the ads resemble scenes from horror movies, including the scenes of a maniacal villain ruthlessly torturing a terrified teen, as well as images of a human brain going through a meat slicer. Ideas for the ads were formed after talking with high school counselors and workers at rehab programs. The staff at Sukle heard and read story after story about the horrible effects of meth and how it takes people apart piece by piece.

"The horror film genre is very popular with the age group that is most at risk, and it seemed like an appropriate way of telling the horrors of meth," said Mike Sukle, President of Sukle Advertising & Design. "And the feedback we are getting is that it's working. The ads seem to be sticking in people's minds and communicating that meth will mess you up in an incredibly terrible, violent manner."

The use of startling images in anti-meth advertising comes as more and more teens turn to the drug. More than six percent (6.2%) of high school students nationwide have used meth at least once, according to Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance, a national survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In Wyoming, the number increases to nearly ten percent (8.5%).

The goal of the campaign is to increase awareness among teens and young adults about the dangers of meth and to increase awareness about meth prevention and treatment. In addition to the artfully directed television commercials, which hit the air in November 2006 and will continue to run through March 2007, the campaign also includes compelling and equally terrifying print, poster and Internet ads, that allow the viewer to peel back the skin from the ad just as if they were clawing at the intense "skin crawls" that occur with the use of meth or extract a tooth from a mouth to reveal the decay and rot that comes with the use of meth. To view the television ads and other elements of the campaign, visit http://www. methkillswyoming. org/ (http://www. methkillswyoming. org/).

Sukle Advertising & Design

Since 1998, Denver-based Sukle Advertising & Design has been crafting globally-recognized, compelling and memorable ideas that create results for their clients. Sukle takes pride in coming up with unique, big picture solutions that get to the heart of the real challenges facing their clients' brands instead of prescribing the same old media solutions over and over. They believe it's not the size of the budget that matters, but the courage of smart clients who are willing to leverage insightful creative ideas, that create impact. For more information about Sukle, visit www. sukle. com. No, not suckle, SUKLE.

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Sunday, June 12, 2005

In Motion Technology Partners with Vizu Online Research Firm to Study Demand for Internet on Public Transit

In Motion Technology Partners with Vizu Online Research Firm to Study Demand for Internet on Public Transit

In Motion Technology, the leader in mobile networking technologies that efficiently connect and manage equipment, information and people in the field, today announced the results of a survey reflecting consumer demand for Internet access on public transportation. The online survey conducted in partnership with Vizu, found that commuters want Internet access and they are willing to pay for it. The survey was conducted in September utilizing Vizu's unique online market polling system, Vizu Answers.

San Francisco, CA (PRWEB) November 14, 2008

In Motion Technology (http://www. inmotiontechnology), the leader in mobile networking technologies that efficiently connect and manage equipment, information and people in the field, today announced the results of a survey reflecting consumer demand for Internet access on public transportation. The online survey conducted in partnership with Vizu, found that commuters want Internet access and they are willing to pay for it. The survey was conducted in September utilizing Vizu's unique online market polling system, Vizu Answers.

When asked how often customers would utilize on-board wireless connectivity, more than 52% of respondents indicated that they would use the service often or very often. Additionally, when asked whether or not riders would be willing to pay a nominal fee - equivalent to $.50 a day - for reliable Internet access, more than 50% of customers responded yes. Overall, customers indicated that they would use wireless service during their commutes.

In Motion Technology's onBoard Mobile Gateway (http://www. inmotiontechnology. com/products/obmgateway. html) turns public transit vehicles into reliable, easy-to-use mobile hotspots, providing connectivity for all on-board data communications, including passenger devices such as laptops and personal digital assistants. Additionally, In Motion Technology solutions provide transit operators with powerful management tools that improve customer satisfaction and reduce communications costs.

"In today's fast-paced world, consumers demand instantaneous access to information," said Kirk Moir, President of In Motion Technology. "By enabling on-board Internet access, the Gateway provides commuters with the freedom to be connected -- for business or entertainment -- from virtually anywhere on the road."

About In Motion Technology
In Motion Technology is the leader in mobile networking technologies that connect and manage equipment, information and people in the field. In Motion's patented technology enables people on the road to stay in constant contact, as onboard communications roam seamlessly across wireless networks. It provides organizations with real-time information to manage operations to peak efficiency, and frees individuals to be effective anywhere, any time. Today, In Motion's solutions are used by more than 150 municipal, healthcare, public safety, transportation and utility organizations worldwide. For more information, please call Louise Labuda (In Motion Technology) at (604) 523-2371 ext. 538 or Michael Rubin (Rubin|Meyer) at (202) 898-0995, or visit http://www. inmotiontechnology. com (http://www. inmotiontechnology. com).

About Vizu
Vizu is the leading brand advertising metrics and custom polling solutions provider on the Internet. Our real-time survey system for measuring brand lift in online advertising provides powerful benefits to publishers and advertisers. Our polling products provide a unique way for online publishers to gather information from their audience and add interactive features to their Web properties. Vizu is a privately-held company based in San Francisco, CA, with backing from leading venture capital firms Draper Fisher Jurvetson and Greycroft Partners. For more information visit: www. vizu. com - See What the World Thinks.

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Dahlia Web Designs LLC Re-Launches <a href="http://www. RecommendedReferrals. com" onclick="linkClick(this. href)">http://www. RecommendedReferrals. com</a> to Partner with <a href="http://www. GreatKidsCorner. com" onclick="linkClick(this. href)">http://www. GreatKidsCorner. com</a&gt

Dahlia Web Designs LLC Re-Launches http://www. RecommendedReferrals. com to Partner with http://www. GreatKidsCorner. com

Dahlia Web Designs LLC re-launches Recommended Referrals as a partnering service of the Great Kids Corner online store for kids furniture. Recommended Referrals is a directory focused on small businesses that offer children's products and services and informational resources.

Los Angeles, CA (Vocus) June 24, 2009

Recommended Referrals has been re-launched with a new focus as a directory of small businesses offering children's products and services. It is a partnering service of Great Kids Corner, the online store for kids furniture (http://www. greatkidscorner. com), where ‘themes come alive for kids’.

Businesses recommend themselves by submitting their URL to the site. Recommendations can also be submitted by customers. The website includes online stores, services for kids and informational resources from the U. S. and around the world. “We want to give small businesses the opportunity to enhance their internet visibility and give parents additional resources to help them with children's products and services,” says Dahlia Benaroya, President, Dahlia Web Designs LLC. Viewers of Recommended Referrals must assess the appropriateness of the products and services for themselves.

Online stores include the categories of activities & gear such as strollers, books, clothing & accessories, collectibles such as the newly launched Collectibles 4 Baseball (http://www. collectibles4baseball. com), educational toys, food & nutrition, furniture & décor, health, and musical. Many products such as the clothes are handmade. Children love to bond with beautiful themes hand painted on kids furniture (http://www. greatkidscorner. com). The products give children much joy. The information helps parents in their purchases.

Services include amber alert support, camp and party activities, training opportunities, medical and dental referrals, website design and illustration services. Resources include services that provide directories of information, product reviews and additional information to help parents make safe choice.

“We are also very excited about showcasing the member businesses that are helping worthy causes,” states Dahlia. “Hopefully, by showcasing these initiatives, more people will find a way to contribute their assistance to these efforts." This new section, ‘Contributing to Special Causes’ on Recommended Referrals, is currently being prepared. It will highlight how businesses are making a difference and about the causes they are supporting. Several of the members donate portions of their proceeds to charity and are tirelessly developing systems and connections to bring people together to help causes such as children’s hospices, reading programs, and others.

Spotlighting a Recommended Referrals member:

Laura Sherman, founder of Your Chess Coach (http://www. yourchesscoach. com) in Clearwater Florida, is on a mission to get children to play chess at home and in schools, on the beach and in the park, anywhere a chess board can fit! She and her husband teach over 50 children in six schools, and more online. Laura believes that chess helps children in so many ways. Children learn self-confidence, gain patience and an ability to concentrate, learn excellent problem solving skills and so much more. She started teaching her son when he was 4 years old and her daughter when she just turned 2. Laura is currently creating e-courses and books to teach educators and parents how to teach very young children the ancient game of Kings and Queens. Laura joined Recommended Referrals in order to connect with more parents and help them teach their children how to play chess.

Laura won Great Kids Corner's recent contest by submitting a video of her 5 year old teaching her 2 year old chess. The video is posted on Kids Love To ® Play Chess (http://www. kidslovetoplaychess. com/YourChessCoach. html) for viewers to be amazed.

About Dahlia Web Designs LLC:
Dahlia Web Designs LLC provides internet and website marketing, strategies and design services. Dahlia Benaroya, President, has over 20 years experience in business, marketing and design strategies and services. Currently, special initiatives under "our umbrella of children's services and products" are the Great Kids Corner online kids furniture store, the Kids Love To ® website series that recognizes children’s achievements, and the Recommended Referrals directory of small businesses offering children’s products and services. Previously, Dahlia was a director of Technology Integration Services at an international pharmaceutical company where she was responsible for spearheading strategies, implementing projects and ensuring customer satisfaction.

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Thursday, June 9, 2005

Atlanta Search Engine Marketing Firm Prominent Placement is Finalist for Three American Marketing Association Awards

Atlanta Search Engine Marketing Firm Prominent Placement is Finalist for Three American Marketing Association Awards

Prominent Placement, Inc., a leading Atlanta search engine marketing firm, received three Atlanta Marketer of the Year (AMY) Finalist Awards from the American Marketing Association (AMA). All three of the firm's entries were selected as finalists out of 130 total submissions.

Atlanta (PRWEB) April 6, 2008

Prominent Placement, Inc., a leading Atlanta search engine marketing firm (http://www. prominentplacement. com), received three Atlanta Marketer of the Year (AMY) Finalist Awards from the American Marketing Association (AMA). All three of the firm's entries were selected as finalists out of 130 total submissions.

Presented on March 27, 2008 at the annual American Marketing Association Awards Gala at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta, the AMY Awards recognize excellence and effectiveness in marketing programs created by Atlanta area agencies and businesses.

The Atlanta search engine optimization company was an AMY finalist in the Search Marketing category for its strategic campaigns for clients Radiant Systems, Carefx and Parc Communities. This category recognizes the use of search optimization techniques to improve website traffic.

"What we appreciate about the AMY Awards is that they focus on hard-hitting, measurable marketing results," says Prominent Placement President Stacy Williams. "We pride ourselves on having a direct, positive impact on our clients' bottom line, and we're proud to have been honored at the AMY Awards for the fifth year in a row."

The campaign for Radiant Systems, Inc., "Utilizing Search Engine Optimization to Quickly Increase Conversions," was selected within the category of Search Marketing Campaign--B2B. This distinction recognizes the best search campaign incorporating techniques that improve organic search results for a business-to-business website.

Radiant Systems, a leader in POS systems (http://www. radiantsystems. com) software and hardware, partnered with Prominent Placement to leverage search engine optimization to quickly increase online visibility in order to drive more traffic to Radiant Systems' website where multiple lead generation opportunities were offered.

The campaigns for Carefx, "Maximizing Lead Generation Through Search Marketing" and for Parc Communities, "Driving Traffic and Generating Qualified Leads" were selected within the category of Search Marketing Campaign--Incorporating PPC. This honor recognizes the best search campaigns incorporating natural search and pay-per-click campaign techniques.

Carefx, providers of a healthcare information aggregation platform (http://www. carefx. com), retained Prominent Placement to leverage search marketing for lead generation and to expand their reach to prospective customers. The agency developed a comprehensive search engine optimization and paid search program to drive prospects to the client's website where multiple lead generation opportunities were available including completing a contact form, viewing a product demo and downloading white papers.

Parc Communities, luxury Atlanta retirement communities (http://www. parccommunities. com), sought to drive traffic from search engines (both organic and paid) to their Web site and generate qualified online leads for Parc Communities upscale senior housing.

About the AMY Awards:
The AMY Awards is the annual awards program presented by the Atlanta chapter of the American Marketing Association. Finalist entries were selected by an independent panel of judges for the delivery of results, the impact on business objectives and the successful execution of marketing best practices.

The competition was open to corporate and agency marketing professionals in Georgia and rewards marketing programs that help build and grow businesses. A record-breaking 130 entries were submitted for the 2008 AMY Awards competition which offered companies 30 opportunities to win across 10 group categories.

About Prominent Placement:
Founded in 2001, Prominent Placement is an industry leading search engine marketing firm offering integrated search engine optimization, pay-per-click advertising and strategic linking services. Prominent Placement has unrivaled experience in driving business success and has earned industry accolades including AMA Atlanta Chapter AMY award winner or finalist the past five consecutive competitions, TAG TAMY award winner 2005, and PRSA Atlanta Chapter award finalist 2006. Prominent Placement is a member of the Search Engine Marketing Professionals Organization (SEMPO), the American Marketing Association (AMA), the Technology Association of Georgia (TAG), the Business Marketing Association (BMA), the Atlanta Interactive Marketing Association (AiMA) and the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA).

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