Blogpire Productions Blogs Announce Investment in the Planet's Future with Green Tags

Blogpire Productions Blogs Announce Investment in the Planet's Future with Green Tags

Blogpire Productions, a collection of 14 lifestyle blogs ranging from Really Natural (www. reallynatural. com) to Single Serve Coffee (www. singleservecoffee. com), announces that it will buy enough green tag renewable energy credits to offset the environmental impact from its hosting and computer operations for the coming year.

Arlington, MA (PRWEB) June 20, 2006

Blogpire Productions, a collection of 14 lifestyle blogs ranging from Really Natural (www. reallynatural. com) to Single Serve Coffee (www. singleservecoffee. com), announces that it will buy enough Green Tags, also called renewable energy credits, from the Bonneville Environmental Foundation, to offset the environmental impact from its hosting and computer operations for the coming year.

The production of traditional electricity, which relies on the burning of fossil fuels, is cheaper than producing energy from renewable sources, but it doesn't take into account the long-term costs of air pollution and health problems, which result when carbon dioxide and other pollutants are emitted into the air.

Green tags are an investment in the production of renewable energy sources through wind and solar power. Using clean renewable energy reduces emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming. By purchasing green tags, Blogpire Productions hopes to lessen our dependence on burning fossil fuels.

"Doing our part to reduce the environmental impact of our computer operations fits with our personal interests and helps us set the tone for how we are going to run our business." says Jay Brewer, founder of Blogpire Productions.

The Blogpire and the people who write for it care deeply about the environment. From the Really Natural blog (www. reallynatural. com), which covers organic foods and household items, to GPS Lodge (www. gpslodge. com), which explores the world with the help of global positioning systems, and Single Serve Coffee (www. singleservecoffee. com), which regularly reviews and supports organic and Fair Trade coffee, the Blogpire's group of bloggers are committed to the environment and reducing their impact on the environment.

"We are all interested in preserving our environment, so running our blogs on renewable energy was the right thing for us to do," says Brewer. "More renewable energy use means less fossil fuel use, less air pollution and a more sustainable future for us and our planet."

About Blogpire Productions:

Blogpire Productions (http://www. blogpire. com (http://www. blogpire. com)) is a set of weblogs that bring an influential audience to brand advertisers focused on product and category niches. Founded in 2004, Blogpire Productions continues to expand each month with new and interesting blogs for readers around the world. Many Blogpire Productions weblogs have been chosen as Yahoo! Pick of the Day, and have been featured in USA Today and FHM Magazine, and on other web sites.

Please visit http://www. blogpire. com/ (http://www. blogpire. com/) for a complete list of Blogpire Productions weblog titles.

About Bonneville Environmental Foundation

The Bonneville Environmental Foundation (BEF), a non-profit organization, was established in 1998 to restore watershed ecosystems and further the development and use of new renewable energy resources. Through revenues generated from the sale of green power products, BEF funds projects that restore damaged watersheds and support new renewable energy projects from solar, wind and biomass. BEF pioneered the sale of Green Tags in 2000 and has helped establish national standards for their certification and trading. More information is available at www. b-e-f. org.

©2004-2006 Blogpire Productions, Single Serve Coffee. com, Kitchen Contraptions. com, Just The Chips. com, TV Snob. com, What's All The Racquet. com, Shaving Stuff. com, Fast Food Fever!, GPS Lodge. com, ShirtSnob. com, The Cooking News. com, Liquor Snob. com, Really Natural. com, CheapFunWines. com and CriticalGamers. com are trademarks of Blogpire, Inc. and the respective publishers. Other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

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Teas for Trees Earth Day Celebration

Teas for Trees Earth Day Celebration

In celebration of Earth Day, ORGANIC INDIA USA announced today, it has partnered with TREES for the FUTURE, creating the Teas for Trees campaign. Under the program, a tree in India will be planted for every box of Tulsi Tea ordered through the Organic India USA website (www. organicindiausa. com) through the end of April.

Boulder, CO (PRWEB) April 22, 2008

In celebration of Earth Day, ORGANIC INDIA USA announced today, it has partnered with TREES for the FUTURE, creating the Teas for Trees campaign. Under the program, a tree in India will be planted for every box of Tulsi Tea ordered through the Organic India USA website (www. organicindiausa. com) through the end of April.

On making the announcement, Bhavani Lev, Co-Founder of ORGANIC INDIA stated, "I am excited to announce the Teas for Trees program, since our company has a passion for the environment and great respect for Mother Nature. We grow the Tulsi herb in India, where we suffer severe deforestation year after year. Earth Day is a great opportunity to raise people's awareness of this issue, and provide ways to solve this problem."

ORGANIC INDIA produces and markets a new line of 18 certified organic Tulsi Teas (http://www. organicindiausa. com/product_index. php? cPath=8). Tulsi, also known as Holy Basil, is grown in India. Tulsi Tea has many health benefits including its ability to relieve stress and provide added energy. Throughout India, Tulsi is revered as a sacred plant with healing powers, and is lovingly called the "Queen of Herbs."

In 2002, ORGANIC INDIA initiated organic certification for tens of thousands of acres in India. Since then, the company has helped thousands of farmers convert to organic, thereby providing many farmers with better lives. According to Ms. Lev, "We teach the tribal people who live in the forest to maintain the ecosystems and nurture the habitat, while harvesting forest fruits and herbs."

Earth Day provides an opportunity to recognize our fragile ecosystems throughout the world. In India dense forest cover is shrinking to a mere 11.71 percent and leading environmentalists see a serious imbalance emerging. "Let's celebrate our Mother Earth together, by planting trees in India which is devastated by deforestation. For each box of Tulsi Tea you order, we will plant a tree in India on your behalf," concluded Ms. Lev.

Join ORGANIC INDIA USA in its Teas for Trees (http://www. organicindiausa. com) campaign, so together we can make a difference.

About ORGANIC INDIA
ORGANIC INDIA USA located in Boulder, CO, markets and distributes a range of organic products produced in India, but sold throughout the world. ORGANIC INDIA is a privately held company, located in Lucknow, India. ORGANIC INDIA works with thousands of family farmers in India who cultivate tens of thousands of acres of organic farmland. ORGANIC INDIA provides training and a premium living wage to Indian farmers who grow organic products, which in turn promotes a sustainable environment.

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Industry Visionary Outlines Innovative Application of Lean Manufacturing

Industry Visionary Outlines Innovative Application of Lean Manufacturing

Pioneering approach translates traditionally repetitive manufacturing methods into valuable guidelines for ETO and BTO environments.

Indianapolis, IN (Vocus) May 29, 2009

Consona Corporation (Consona), a worldwide leader in providing customer relationship management (CRM) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) software and services for companies of all sizes, today announced the general availability of the white paper entitled, “Lean for ETO Manufacturers,” written by Ben Boldt, founder and lead consultant of Visionary Solution Resources, Inc. The study examines techniques that can be used to implement lean manufacturing in non-repetitive engineer-to-order (ETO) and build-to-order (BTO) manufacturing environments.

Access “Lean for ETO Manufacturers (http://www. encompix. com/landings/PR-Lean-Techniques-For-ETO-And-Project-Based-Manufacturing/)” now or read below for further details on the contents of this paper. (http://www. encompix. com/landings/PR-Lean-Techniques-For-ETO-And-Project-Based-Manufacturing/ (http://www. encompix. com/landings/PR-Lean-Techniques-For-ETO-And-Project-Based-Manufacturing/))

Lean manufacturing fundamentals were founded on the Toyota Production System, which embraces the concepts of minimal inventories and continuous improvement through the identification and elimination of waste. While lean methods were born in repetitive manufacturing, the underlying motivation applies to all organizations. Although many ETO and BTO companies have not traditionally adopted lean principles within their environments, the question remains: “Can these principles be applied to the ETO and BTO manufacturing operations?”

In this white paper, Boldt responds to this query by presenting the techniques and concepts behind lean manufacturing, their applicability to non-repetitive ETO and BTO manufacturing, and the level of investment required to implement them. “The individual techniques or methods to be used…must recognize the environment in which they are to be applied to achieve desired cost/benefit objectives,” states Boldt.

Beyond insight on how to approach lean in ETO and BTO manufacturing operations, Boldt also stresses the importance of an entire organization’s unwavering commitment to success, stating, “The application of lean techniques must be continuously applied and reinforced by management.”

“The implementation of lean principles is a significant commitment of resources,” says Boldt. “However, if you can’t make it visible and meaningful, it won’t get attention or change. Success requires a data collection and reporting process that will incorporate the performance measures to be used to identify waste and report on the progress of its elimination.”

“As a company that supports the complex business and manufacturing needs of ETO and BTO projects with our leading Encompix ERP solution (http://www. encompix. com/products/product. shtml), we appreciate the significance of Boldt’s contributions to the industry, and believe that his insights will make a real difference in whether or not a company can enjoy the fruits of a successful lean implementation,” said Scott Malia, general manager of Consona ERP. “In this white paper, Boldt offers expert guidance on how properly orchestrated processes and management can support the proven methods of lean manufacturing—invaluable information in today’s competitive marketplace.”

About Consona Corporation
Consona Corporation is a worldwide leader in providing customer relationship management (CRM) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) software and services for companies of all sizes. Consona is dedicated to becoming a valued business partner by helping each and every customer continuously improve business processes over time. Toward this mission, Consona invests in the people, processes, technology and tools needed to provide its customers with a unique combination of customer care; product fit; a broad range of consulting, IT and business services; and industry expertise. Consona serves more than 4,500 customers worldwide and across a variety of industries, including manufacturing, distribution, financial services, health care, high tech, and local government. Battery Ventures and Thoma Bravo jointly own Consona. For further information, visit www. consona. com, e-mail info@consona. com, or call (888) 8 CONSONA.

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Expanding into New Markets with Customer-Focused Solutions, Orion Health Sees Strong Growth

Expanding into New Markets with Customer-Focused Solutions, Orion Health Sees Strong Growth

Nearly 200,000 physicians in more than 500 hospitals are using Orion Health Concerto™ portal to access critical health data stored in electronic health records (EHRs). The company has just reported over 50% growth in net profit before tax for the 2009 financial year.

Auckland, New Zealand (PRWEB) June 29, 2009

Orion Health (http://www. orionhealth. com/), a market leader in providing clinical workflow and integration technology, today announced a major milestone for the company and the adoption of its solutions around the world. Nearly 200,000 physicians in more than 500 hospitals are using Orion Health Concerto™ (http://www. orionhealth. com/products/concerto/) portal to access critical health data stored in electronic health records (EHRs). The company has just reported over 50% growth in net profit before tax for the 2009 financial year.

Ian McCrae, Orion Health CEO notes the company is preparing for rapid growth as the US market is set to explode on the back of government funding from ARRA. Already, the company sees 90 percent of sales from revenues outside of New Zealand. With interoperability a top priority for health providers globally, Orion Health continues to grow as it pursues these opportunities via new channels and markets.

"Improved technical process based on OSGi, and the continued investment in co-developing solutions with clinicians has fueled development of several new products to better use existing infrastructure and streamline workflow for healthcare providers. Our commitment to innovation is shown by our strong investment in research and development - close to 20% of turnover per annum."

The company's Rhapsody™ Integration Engine (http://www. orionhealth. com/products/rhapsody/) has seen a 69% percent increase in global sales revenue (driven by a 115% increase in Rhapsody license revenues in the US market) and has become the defacto standard for public health reporting in the US. This coming year Orion Health will expand its strategy to embed Rhapsody as the message broker component in a broad number of solutions from leading global providers.

According to Orion Health President of North America and EMEA Paul Viskovich, Health Integration Exchanges (HIEs) of all sizes are calling on Orion Health's proven solutions to play key roles in large systems and provide end to end solutions for health data integration across small to midsized exchanges.

"Fast regional growth was seen in Canada where our solutions have been adopted in three major provinces. Large-scale implementations in Europe are progressing well, including the IB Salut regional EHR in Spain, and we're seeing increased interest in EHR development around the world. Further expansion into the Middle East will warrant a permanent office in the area later in the year," Mr. Viskovich continues.

Healthcare Informatics magazine has listed the company in the top 100 healthcare IT vendors in the US for four years in a row, moving up seven places this past year to land at number 63. The company was also recognized as the Air New Zealand Cargo Auckland Exporter of the Year and lists on the Red Herring 100 Asia, 2008.

About Orion Health
Orion Health is a leading provider of clinical workflow and integration technology for the healthcare sector. Orion Health's easy-to-use solutions and applications improve patient care and clinical decision-making by providing integrated health data in a single, unified view. By enhancing existing healthcare information systems, Orion Health's Rhapsody Integration Engine, Concerto Physician Portal, and workflow solutions provide healthcare workers with easy access to patient data and trends, and reduce errors and omissions by streamlining information transfer.

Worldwide, Orion Health implements health information communities involving over 35 million patients with tens of thousands of active users including Maine's HealthInfoNet, Vermont Health Information Exchange, Canada Health Infoway, Alberta Health Services and Spain's IB Salut. Orion Health's partners include leading health system integrators and IT vendors such as Accenture, Allscripts, IBM, Oracle, Phillips and others. Orion Health has more than 1,000 clients around the world, including Lahey Clinic, UCLA Medical Center, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and several of the U. K.'s NHS Trust Hospitals. More information can be found at http://www. orionhealth. com (http://www. orionhealth. com).

Concerto and Rhapsody are registered trademarks of Orion Health and/or its affiliates. Other names may be trademarks of their respective owners.

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TDi Technologies and GE Healthcare Team to Address Insider Threat

TDi Technologies and GE Healthcare Team to Address Insider Threat

Privileged Insiders can access, alter or destroy sensitive data. They can compromise privacy. They can cause improper care, missed diagnosis, incorrect dispensation or failure of critical services. Now GE Healthcare is meeting this threat with IT Foundation Management from TDi Technologies.

Plano, Texas (PRWEB) June 8, 2010

TDi Technologies, the leader in IT Foundation Management, today announced GE Healthcare has partnered with TDi Technologies to deliver the most comprehensive healthcare solution available for defending against the Insider Threat.

The Insider Threat is a security and compliance concern of critical importance to Healthcare providers. While meeting HIPAA compliance is a significant part of the problem that GE Healthcare and TDi Technologies address, the greater implications are security vulnerabilities that can compromise entire databases, and introduce intentional (and unintentional) errors or malicious code into the IT Infrastructure with impacts ranging from costly to catastrophic.

“As a group, we feel we are on a mission to inform all the customers we can that there is potential danger from the Insider Threat that could bring them to their knees,” stated Brian Mitchell, General Manager, Hospital & Physician Practice and Technology Sales, GE Healthcare.

The essence of the vulnerability is the service interfaces in computer hardware, often termed “baseboard management controllers” that provide master-level authority over hardware devices, their individual components, and the software that runs on them. Through service interfaces systems administrators, contractors and operators can control IT Infrastructure assets including changing BIOS and operating systems, copying data, opening IP ports, installing software, configuring hardware and much more.

Keith Martino, President of global consultancy CMI puts a “Face on the Insider Threat” in his recent whitepaper where he states, “Many of the individuals who have launched these devastating attacks have advanced technical skills. The rapid rise of an organization’s dependency on its information systems has paved the way for increased vulnerability. Stressful days and sleepless nights in many IT departments have taxed some beyond their limits.”

The adoption of IT Foundation Management is a clear example of GE Healthcare’s commitment to safely and reliably managing the healthcare experience. A recognized technology leader in the Healthcare industry, GE Healthcare chose IT Foundation Management from TDi Technologies to help them defend against the Insider Threat and extend their ability to meet the compliance needs of their healthcare customers.

IT Foundation Management from TDi Technologies secures these privileged interfaces with encrypted, persistent connections implementing systems-managed role-based access and control. Role-based access and control is a standard part of security practices, yet until now that control has not been available for privileged service interfaces.

“Securing privileged interfaces provides a number of critical benefits to defending against the Insider Threat and meeting compliance regulations,” stated Bill Johnson, CEO of TDi Technologies and noted SANS Institute Thought Leader. “Privileged interfaces are ‘live’ any time there is power to the chassis. With IT Foundation Management we retain security even when devices are offline for service or configuration - conditions when devices cannot be monitored or secured by conventional means. In addition, we log every command and control taken over them down to the keystroke. In this way we create a definitive record of exactly what did or did not happen under every circumstance.”

To learn more about IT Foundation Management for Healthcare visit us on the web at http://www. tditechnologies. com/healthcare-foundation (http://www. tditechnologies. com/healthcare-foundation).

About TDi Technologies
TDi Technologies is the leader in IT Foundation Management and a provider of infrastructure management solutions for mission-critical systems including virtual technologies and cloud computing. The company’s patented IT Foundation Management solutions are characterized by agent-less, zero-footprint, non-intrusive, active monitoring and remediation from a single window. TDi Technologies serves a global customer base of blue-chip clients who rely on our products every day, including their most mission-critical, fault intolerant systems and applications. TDi Technologies’ clients use IT Foundation Management to reduce costs, improve service, defend against the Insider Threat, and meet compliance regulations. Visit us on the web at www. tditechnologies. com.

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Anna Nicole Smith Supreme Court Decision May Aid Disabled Petitioner

Anna Nicole Smith Supreme Court Decision May Aid Disabled Petitioner

Former Playmate of the Year Anna Nicole Smith may help rescue a 35-year-old autistic woman, Nancy K. Golin, from confinement in a California facility.

West Hurley, NY (PRWEB) March 13, 2006

Anna Nicole Smith Supreme Court

Decision May Aid Disabled Petitioner

Washington, DC (PRWEB) March 13, 2006 -- Former Playmate of the Year Anna Nicole Smith may help rescue a 35-year-old autistic woman, Nancy K. Golin, from confinement in a California facility.

Smith's case, Marshall v. Marshall (No. 04-1544), was argued in the U. S. Supreme Court on February 28, 2006, and seems headed for a win over oil-billionaire Howard Marshall II's son E. Pierce Marshall. Smith, aka Vickie Lynn Marshall, seeks to overcome E. Pierce Marshall's attempt to block her from receiving millions of dollars gifted to her by her late elderly husband during their brief marriage.

Golin also has a case before the Supreme Court. Her parents filed a civil rights suit seeking to address California's alleged illegal removal and confinement of her, as well as alleged state perpetuated physical and mental abuse.

While the two persons seem world's apart, their case aren't. And what happens in Anna Nicole's case will probably dictate the outcome in Nancy's.

Smith is a centerfold model, fitness promoter, celebrity and former exotic dancer, bitterly at odds with her husband's family over the deceased billionaire's fortune, and well supported by a battalion of high-profile attorneys. Golin is autistic and epileptic, and a virtual prisoner in a state residential care facility, unable to see her family who raised her from birth, except under restrictive conditions. Ms. Golin's health is declining under the state's regimen, despite the efforts of state Senator Jeff Denham to help. She has suffered lifethreatening brain, bone and esophageal damage from illegal psychiatric drugging, untreated fractures, denial of emergency medical care, and emotional, physical and sexual abuse while her terrified parents have been forced to just stand by and watch.

Golin's family is neither wealthy nor famous, but the united parents have advocated tirelessly for four years for their daughter to be released back home. Nancy and her family's civil rights lawsuit (No. 05-791) ascended from the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, where Anna Nicole's was denied on similar grounds. Their legal arguments are almost identical. Both are appeals of probate court proceedings. The Texas court stripped Nicole's husband, and the California court stripped Nancy, of their civil rights, including the right of to be represented by their chosen family members.

Nancy's father, a 65-year old retired MIT-trained physicist and engineer with no prior legal education, represented himself, his wife, and Nancy over a four year losing battle against a battery of state lawyers. Just now, he has the assistance of New York family rights advocate, attorney Gerard Wallace. They are awaiting the Court's decision on whether the Court will hear the case. Like thousands of other hopeful petitioners, the odds are against them. But Anna Nicole Smith has led the way. If the Court decides in her favor, almost certainly the Golins will be heard.

At stake is federal jurisdiction over state guardianship abuses. In other words, is there a so-called "probate exception" that immunizes state guardianship from congressional enactments? As recent federal appellate decisions have declared.

According to Wallace, even more could be at stake. "The Golins provided for Nancy from her birth. They never ceased acting as her parental caregivers and as her natural guardians. Now they want to use Section 1983 of the Civil Rights Act to address the significant harms perpetuated by the state. But their rights as parents have gone unrecognized. The Supreme Court has never ruled on whether parents who have cared for disabled children since birth have the same rights as parents of minor children. Even though both sets of parents have never ceased to exercise care, control, and decision making." If Anna Nicole wins, the Court could use Golin to decide whether the Golins have a constitutionally protected liberty interest in the continuing association and companionship with their disabled adult daughter Nancy.

On Saturday, March 11, the Golins submitted a Supplemental Brief, suggesting that the Court reach its final opinion in Marshall before deciding their case. A decision on the Golins’ brief is expected on March 24. More information and photos can be found at http://www. freenancy. com (http://www. freenancy. com), Contact Jeffrey Golin, (650) 814-6284, or Gerard Wallace, at (845) 679-4410.

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WellStep, Metro Atlanta Office-Based, Confidential Treatment Program for Opioid Dependence (Utilizing Suboxone), Alcoholism, and Internet/Gambling Addiction Announces its Executive Solutions Program

WellStep, Metro Atlanta Office-Based, Confidential Treatment Program for Opioid Dependence (Utilizing Suboxone), Alcoholism, and Internet/Gambling Addiction Announces its Executive Solutions Program

WellStep, a metro Atlanta office-based, confidential treatment program for opioid dependence (utilizing Suboxone), alcoholism, and internet/gambling addiction announces its Executive Solutions program for high level business executives, professional athletes, celebrities and other public figures.

Roswell, GA (PRWEB) February 20, 2008

WellStep, a metro Atlanta office-based, confidential treatment program for opioid dependence (utilizing Suboxone), alcoholism, and internet/gambling addiction announces its Executive Solutions program designed for business executives, professional athletes, celebrities and other public figures.

WellStep is located in a private, comfortable medical office center in Alpharetta, Georgia, an upscale suburb just north of Atlanta.

Executive Solutions is designed to give an additional level of privacy to executives, professional athletes, celebrities, and other high profile individuals who do not want their treatment to become public knowledge.

Unique privacy protections of the program include direct appointment scheduling with the medical director, after-hours and weekend services, and one-on-one counseling instead of group therapy.

WellStep can assist out-of-town patients in finding convenient hotel accommodations in the area.

WellStep offers Suboxone (buprenorphine) for selected patients who are dependent on painkiller medications such as Percocet, Vicodin and Oxycontin. For those struggling with alcoholism, Vivitrol (naltexone) and Campral (acamprosate) may be prescribed. An innovative, personalized treatment approach combining medical and behavioral therapies is utilized to help ensure long-term success.

Mark S. Banov, MD, MPH is Medical Director of WellStep. Dr. Banov received training in addiction medicine from the Harvard University School of Public Health. He graduated from Johns Hopkins University and the Medical University of South Carolina. Dr. Banov is certified by the American Board of Preventive Medicine and is a Fellow of the American Board of Preventive Medicine. He is on the medical staff of Gwinnett Hospital System.

Joseph Kirkpatrick, PhD and Susan Rosovsky, CCADC direct counseling services.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 770-753-9898 and indicate that you are interested in the Executive Solutions program or visit our website, www. wellstepatlanta. com.

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First Command Advisor Receives 2007 realLIFEstories Client Service Award: Samantha Hilliard's Service to Iraq War Widow Honored by Life Insurance Industry and Featured in Newsweek

First Command Advisor Receives 2007 realLIFEstories Client Service Award: Samantha Hilliard's Service to Iraq War Widow Honored by Life Insurance Industry and Featured in Newsweek

Samantha Hilliard of First Command Financial Services, Inc., has been honored by the life insurance industry and featured in Newsweek for her service to the widow an Army officer killed in Iraq.

FORT WORTH, Texas (PRWEB) September 5, 2007

 Hilliard, a district advisor in First Command's Killeen, Texas, office, has received the 2007 realLIFEstories Client Service Award from the Life and Health Insurance Foundation for Education (LIFE), a non-profit group dedicated to providing the public with information and education on life, disability, long-term care and health insurance.

LIFE recognized Hilliard for her service to First Command client Richelle Hecker, a mother of four young children whose husband, Army Major William F. Hecker, III, was killed in Iraq in January 2006. The story is featured in a special section of the Sept. 10 issue of Newsweek magazine. Hilliard will also be honored at LIFE's realLIFEstories Gala Awards Banquet, held at the annual convention of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) in Washington, D. C., on Sept. 9.

"We're extremely proud of the service Samantha Hilliard has provided to this special client family," said Marty Durbin, president and chief operating officer. "She typifies the dedication and one-on-one service that First Command Financial Advisors provide every day to our nearly 300,000 client families. The 2007 realLIFEstories Client Service Award provides an important reminder that our Advisors and staff are committed to making an extraordinary difference in the lives of the American families we serve."

First Command Financial Services and its subsidiaries, including First Command Bank and First Command Financial Planning, assist American families in their efforts to build wealth, reduce debt and pursue their lifetime financial goals and dreams--focusing on consumer behavior as the first and most powerful determinant of results. Through personalized financial plans that emphasize investments, insurance and full-service banking, First Command Financial Advisors have established lasting relationships with hundreds of thousands of client families since 1958.

For more information about First Command, visit www. firstcommand. com.

First Command Financial Services, Inc. is the parent company of First Command Financial Planning, Inc. (Member SIPC) and First Command Bank (Member FDIC). Insurance products and services are offered by First Command Financial Services, Inc. Financial planning services and securities products are offered by First Command Financial Planning, Inc. Banking products and services are offered by First Command Bank. Securities products are not FDIC insured, have no bank guarantee and may lose value. In certain states, First Command Financial Services, Inc. is a separately registered domestic corporation and does business in California as "First Command Insurance Services."

Los Angeles Pool Service Company Pool Joe is Going Organic using Eco-Safe Pool Products

Los Angeles Pool Service Company Pool Joe is Going Organic using Eco-Safe Pool Products

Pool Joe’s pool service located in Los Angeles goal is to improve the quality of family’s lives by providing the healthiest and most practical pool care solutions. Their focus has been on utilizing products that save energy, are less toxic, and ultimately “greener” in nature. Pool Joe is determined to offer and encourage their clients to choose the more organic approach by using non-toxic eco-friendly pool products

Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) July 7, 2010

Non Toxic and eco-friendly pool products are the sole driving force for LA Pool Service (http://www. losangeles-poolservice. com/) Company Pool Joe. Green pool products not only help save money in the long run, they ultimately help provide a safe swimming environment that is also mild on skin, hair and lungs. Pool Joe is now offering organic pool solutions to their customers. Some of these solutions involve using non-toxic chemical free products to equalize pool water. Pool Joe has also begun advocating for pool and spa rebuilds that use recycled materials with no volatile organic compounds and specialize in caring for these eco-friendly rebuilds.

Tips from those at Pool Joe include looking into materials like Insulating Concrete Foam (ICF). The ICF is made out of recycled materials like old packing peanuts and coffee cups. These foams are extreme insulators and therefore, the best recycled mix-in for eco-friendly pool solutions. Didn’t know there was a difference? Pool Joe takes the liberty of making sure you know you have options.

Pool Joe is taking advantage of their presence in the pool maintenance industry by persuading their consumers to take the more environmental approach. With a great understanding of the care and value of their consumer’s health, as well as those consumers who have clients using their facilities, Pool Joe is enhancing pool and spa maintenance by organically practicing their trade to nurture those who are taking the plunge into the water. Leaders in the Los Angeles Pool Service (http://www. losangeles-poolservice. com/) industry the company believes environmentally safe practices are the only way to go.

The Los Angeles Pool Service (http://www. losangeles-poolservice. com/) Company is looking into pool ionization and other eco-friendly solutions. They have experience setting pools systems up as saltwater. Pool Joe is trying to educate their consumer that eco-friendly pool products are beneficial to their health and environment. Eco-friendly products are essential for families and facilities.

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Hays Construction Highlight Opportunities as Trades and Labouring Jobs Show Resilience

Hays Construction Highlight Opportunities as Trades and Labouring Jobs Show Resilience

Hays Construction reports that despite a difficult start to the year, there continue to be pockets of construction recruitment in the UK

(PRWEB) June 12, 2009

According to Hays Construction, leading specialist recruiter, despite a difficult start to the year, there continue to be pockets of construction recruitment.

Lynne Crowe, Regional Manager at Hays Construction, commented, "Although the length of contracts has become shorter on average, the demand for trades and labouring jobs (http://www. hays. com/construction/Labouring/ (http://www. hays. com/construction/Labouring/)) has remained steady in some parts of the UK."

Employers can afford to be more selective regarding the calibre of applicants they recruit and the specific requirements needed given the excess supply of experienced and quality site staff available in the marketplace. Flexibility is an important pre-requisite for employers, who are looking to hire individuals on a temporary basis for their labouring and trades jobs (http://www. hays. com/construction/SpecialistTrades/ (http://www. hays. com/construction/SpecialistTrades/)).

Currently the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) is a key requirement, particularly given the health and safety regulations that contractors need to abide by. Lynne Crowe stressed, "It does not matter if you are a fully qualified experienced tradesman or a first time general labourer, a CSCS card provides proof of competency. Employer requirements also include Prefabricated Access Suppliers' and Manufacturers' Association (PASMA) passes in the building aluminium towers."

The public sector continues to prove resilient and there are a number of long-term opportunities for tradesmen such as carpenters, painters, tilers, plasterers, bricklayers, painters, decorators and banksmen, particularly within the health and education sectors, which have benefited from a significant injection in government investment. Examples include renovation programmes for hospitals and the Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme, which continue to create opportunities for skilled operatives.

Although commercial new build activity is being scaled back in the private sector, there has still been ongoing refurbishment activity. "Companies may seek to re-evaluate a move to a brand new office building and instead look at redeveloping existing premises," noted Lynne Crowe. "The high-end residential market has also created opportunities for those companies with strong cashflow who are able to pick up bargains and inject funds into upgrading properties, which they can then re-sell when property values increase."

Jobseekers need to stand out and differentiate themselves from their peers to have the best chance of securing employment in the current market. Whether seeking both permanent or temporary work, employers are looking for CVs with evidence of a solid work history, excellent ready references and for tradesmen, full tools specifications. But interpersonal skills are equally important, "A good attitude to work is a must and all jobseekers must be keen to impress, as every job interview is their platform to excel," concluded Lynne Crowe.

Note to Editor:
Hays Construction is part of Hays plc, the leading global specialist recruitment group, specialising in construction jobs (http://www. hays. com/construction/ (http://www. hays. com/construction/)) including construction manager jobs (http://www. hays. com/construction/ConstructionManagement/ (http://www. hays. com/construction/ConstructionManagement/)) and quantity surveying jobs (http://www. hays. com/construction/QuantitySurveying/ (http://www. hays. com/construction/QuantitySurveying/)). It is market leader in the UK and Australia, and one of the market leaders in Continental Europe. The Group employs 8,294 staff operating from 380 offices in 28 countries across 17 specialisms.

For further press information please contact:
Alexandra Tucker
Hays Plc
Charter House
13 - 15 Carteret Street
London
SW1H 9DJ
020 7630 4282
Www. hays. com

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"Drumfire" Heating up the Scene, by Firing up the Kilns of Big Corporate Business

"Drumfire" Heating up the Scene, by Firing up the Kilns of Big Corporate Business

Progressive fun drumming programs designed to bring out the very best outcomes in the workplace. Healthy, Wealthy, and Wise - the achievements of these rhythm and music events are multifold. Empowerment, team synergy, through wellness in the workplace.

(PRWEB) February 26, 2005

Fun and laughter, best medicine ever, especially when accompanied by the highly skilled facilitators of "Drumfire".

Chrisse Feros & The Drummers of Toumba! Toumba! perform as the corporate team building group "Drumfire".

Chrisse, ia an international multi-award winning artist, holding Winning Finalist Award for John Lennon Songwriting Contest 2004, and her album is a Winner of MIDEM International Showcase Award. She also holds A. Mus. A.(Hons)

Her unique and extraordinary facilitators, are all international drummers holding endorsements from the world's major drum companies.

Both Chrisse and her team have over 20 years of professional presentation experience under their belts.

I interviewed Feros on February 18th 2005, and asked her about the drive into the corporate scene, her responses were simple and yet profound.

"It's not about how much we know, it is all about how much we care....and believe me, we care, and we deliver"

"We embrace the concept of taking on new challenges and learning to mould them into learning successes - the "Drumfire" experience will take it's participants on a fun-filled, journey unleashing the power of unity, the power of rhythm, and a discovery of the creative tools within."

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MySchoolPledge. com Challenges Americans to Go Back to School

MySchoolPledge. com Challenges Americans to Go Back to School

MySchoolPledge. com is an online initiative that challenges Americans to better themselves through education by returning to school in 2011.

Seattle, WA (PRWEB) August 17, 2010

All Star Directories today announced its bold vision for improving education in our country through its MySchoolPledge (http://www. myschoolpledge. com) Campaign. The initiative asks Americans of all ages, backgrounds and interest areas to commit to going back to school in 2011 to better themselves and improve their situation through higher education.

“Education can change your life, and we want to challenge Americans to take ownership of their futures by going to back to school (http://www. MyBacktoSchoolSource. com),” said Doug Brown, CEO of All Star Directories, a leading online publisher of post-secondary school directories. “Given the current economic climate, right now is the perfect time to expand your skill set and knowledge base. It is a fact that those with a college education are more likely to get hired, paid more and ultimately feel more fulfilled in their career of choice.”

The online campaign kicked off today at www. myschoolpledge. com and provides the chance for those interested in going back to school (http://www. MyBacktoSchoolSource. com) to make a simple commitment to making their education a reality. While many parents are preparing to send their young kids back to school this fall, they too, are also preparing to return to the classroom. MySchoolPledge is about recognizing that there are many faces of back to school. Today’s student comes in all ages, genders and stages of life – from the 18 year old high school senior to the single mom with the hope of becoming a nurse, to the military serviceman cashing in his G. I. Bill.

MySchoolPledge. com offers easy to use tools to communicate the student’s commitment to education through their Facebook and Twitter pages as well as key resources to guide students on the path toward higher education. MySchoolPledge believes that goal setting and goal sharing are the keys to success and encourages all potential students taking the pledge to ask their networks to hold them accountable.

All Star Directories knows that college readiness and the potential for a higher education starts in the country’s public school system. As a result, All Star Directories has dedicated a $10,000 donation to DonorsChoose. org, a national non-profit committed to empowering teachers and improving public schools. The donation, earmarked for college readiness programs, is meant to honor the commitment made by Americans to return to the classroom through MySchoolPledge.

“Improving education is at the forefront of our mission,” said Candice Jimenez, West Region Director of DonorsChoose. org. “Without access to classroom resources and tools for learning, many kids won’t find themselves in the collegiate environment. We are excited about the work that All Star Directories is doing to inspire individuals to go back to school, and we are happy to work together to help make college a reality for K-12 students in high need schools. I’m proud to say that this $10,000 in support from All Star Directories will fund over 20 college readiness projects at 20 public schools across the country.”

About MySchoolPledge
MySchoolPledge. com is an online initiative that challenges Americans to better themselves through education by returning to school in 2011. The campaign provides the chance for those interested in going back to school to make a simple commitment to making their education dreams a reality.

About All Star Directories
All Star Directories, Inc. is one of the Internet's fastest growing publishers of online and career school directories matching millions of highly qualified prospective students with the schools that best meet their education needs. Recently, Inc. Magazine ranked All Star among the fastest growing companies in the country and the Puget Sound Business Journal has recognized the company as one of Washington State's fastest growing companies for six consecutive years. From leading research institutions to fast-growing online and for-profit schools, nearly 800 featured schools representing close to 60,000 programs trust All Star Directories as the authority in online student marketing. The All Star network of sites focuses on a wide range of fields including All Allied Health Schools, All Art Schools, All Business Schools, All Education Schools, All Psychology Schools, All Criminal Justice Schools, All Computer Schools and All Nursing Schools. Please visit http://www. allstardirectories. com (http://www. allstardirectories. com) or call 1-888-404-8043 for more information.

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KrankcycleRx, Club One and Matrix Team Up to Help Those with Physical Disabilities and Operation Freedom Veterans

KrankcycleRx, Club One and Matrix Team Up to Help Those with Physical Disabilities and Operation Freedom Veterans

Johnny G Krankcycle® by Matrix donated to Lieutenant Colonel Timothy Karcher at Challenged Athletes Foundation "Tour de Cove" event.

Delray Beach, FL (PRWEB) November 24, 2009

KrankcycleRx, Club One and Matrix Fitness today announced that they have donated a new Johnny G Krankcycle by Matrix on behalf of the Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF) to Lieutenant Colonel Timothy Karcher, who was recently injured in the line of duty and lost both of his legs.

The Krankcycle was presented to Lt. Colonel Karcher at CAF's annual "Tour de Cove" event in San Diego on October 25th by eight-year-old Cody McCasland, a fellow double amputee, among 300 riders and with Karcher's family present. KrankcycleRx, an authorized distributor of the Johnny G Krankcycle by Matrix serving those with physical disabilities and other special populations, and Matrix Fitness of Johnson Health Tech, made the equipment donation in conjunction with Frog's Fitness, the Southern California brand of Club One, a leading health club company and long-time supporter of CAF.

Karcher, the recipient of the Krankcycle, was serving his third tour of duty in Iraq and is commander of the Army's 2nd Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, and 1st Cavalry Division. He was injured on June 28th just outside of Baghdad. Reports indicate an EFP - a bomb containing explosively-formed projectiles - hit the vehicle in which Karcher was riding. As a result, he sustained traumatic bilateral amputations of both of his legs. This is not the first time Karcher has been injured in the line of duty. In 2006, he received the Purple Heart after suffering a gunshot wound while deployed to Iraq.

"Timothy Karcher visited this year's Tour de Cove to see how other Operation Rebound men and women had been helped by CAF," explains Jim Mizes, President and CEO of Club One. "He did not have new prosthetics yet as his legs need time to heal, so on behalf of KrankcycleRx and Matrix we donated a Krankcycle to the Lieutenant Colonel so he could continue to build strength and heal properly. He and his family were overjoyed. It was an unforgettable moment for all of us. His smile will be with me forever."

"The Johnny G Krankcycle by Matrix is fully wheelchair accessible and allows Timothy Karcher, as well as other physically disabled individuals stay fit with a fun, engaging and challenging workout," says Debbie Miller the President and CEO of KrankcycleRx, "We're delighted to be able to give back to this hero who fought for all of us."

Krankcycle is the innovation of Johnny G - the creator of Spinning® and jointly developed with Matrix Fitness, which manufactures, sells and distributes the Johnny G Krankcycle by Matrix. Kranking® is the first exercise program to focus on the upper body as a way to build cardio fitness. It represents a new way to build aerobic capacity and upper body strength, burn calories and build core stability. And since it utilizes the upper body instead of the legs, it provides a unique opportunity for people with physical disabilities to train along with everyone else or independently.

About KrankcycleRx
KrankcycleRx (http://www. krankcyclerx. com (http://www. krankcyclerx. com)) is an authorized distributor of the Johnny G Krankcycle by Matrix dedicated to the sale and use of the Krankcycle in the areas of medical fitness, wellness, and inclusive health. KrankcycleRx promotes inclusive fitness for people of all abilities. No limitations. No one gets left out.

About Club One
Founded in 1991, Club One (http://www. clubone. com (http://www. clubone. com)) is a leading source for award-winning fitness and wellness solutions throughout the United States. In addition to operating 15 Club One Fitness branded clubs in Northern California and five Frog's Fitness branded clubs in Southern California, Club One also manages more than 60 corporate fitness centers, community centers, multi-tenant business parks and municipalities serving more than 125,000 members nationwide.

About Matrix Fitness Systems
Matrix Fitness Systems (http://www. matrixfitness. com (http://www. matrixfitness. com)) is the premium commercial brand of Johnson Health Tech North America Corp. and comprises a complete line of cardiovascular and strength-training equipment for health clubs and other fitness facilities.

Challenged Athletes Foundation
The Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF) (http://www. challengedathletes. org (http://www. challengedathletes. org)) is a world leader in helping individuals with physical challenges get involved - and stay involved - in sports. CAF believes that participation in sports at any level increases self-esteem, encourages independence and enhances quality of life. Since 1994, more than $21 million has been raised and almost 4,000 funding requests from challenged athletes in all 50 states and dozens of countries have been satisfied. Additionally, CAF's outreach efforts reach another 60,000 individuals each year.

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Morehead Webinar Presents Survey Instrument for Nursing Magnet Recognition Program

Morehead Webinar Presents Survey Instrument for Nursing Magnet Recognition Program

Morehead discusses how to leverage employee survey data to meet Magnet Recognition Program requirements.

Charlotte, NC (PRWEB) March 18, 2008

Morehead, the human capital research (http://www. moreheadassociates. com/) firm, will host a webinar on Tuesday, March 25, 2008 at 1:00 p. m. eastern time titled “How to Leverage your Employee Survey Data along the Magnet Journey.”

Developed by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), the Magnet Recognition Program® recognizes health care organizations that provide nursing excellence. The Magnet program also provides a valuable framework for developing successful nursing practices and strategies.

Organizations recognized by the Magnet Recognition Program or looking to achieve the Magnet status (http://moreheadassociates. com/events/) typically may be using multiple employee survey instruments. Morehead’s David Rowlee, Ph. D., vice president of Research & Development, and Robin Sanders, M. A., vice president of Business Development, will discuss how to use a single employee survey instrument that provides the reports and normative information required by ANCC’s Magnet Recognition Program, while also meeting broader needs for comprehensive employee feedback. They will present the key benefits to using a single survey to measure employee satisfaction and commitment among registered nurses and other employee groups.

To sign up for the free hour-long webinar, visit http://moreheadassociates. com/events/contents_event46.html (http://moreheadassociates. com/events/contents_event46.html).

About Morehead
Morehead delivers human capital Surveys, Metrics and Solutions that enable leaders to (1) target and focus human capital initiatives, (2) prioritize systemic change, (3) inform work unit interventions, and (4) align employees with business strategies. Morehead’s clients include healthcare providers, financial institutions, government agencies, universities, service providers, and manufacturers. For more information, visit www. moreheadassociates. com.

Media Contact:
Wanda Craig
800.849.2292 x 5515
Wcraig(at)moreheadassociates. com

This press release was distributed through eMediawire by Human Resources Marketer (HR Marketer: www. HRmarketer. com) on behalf of the company
Listed above.

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PlattForm Signs as Exclusive Agency for School

PlattForm Signs as Exclusive Agency for School

PlattForm, a leader in the postsecondary education marketing industry, has announced that it is the agency of record for Virginia College – Jackson.

Olathe, KS (PRWEB) September 16, 2005

PlattForm, a leader in the postsecondary education marketing industry, has announced that it is the agency of record for Virginia College – Jackson.

The agency will provide all marketing, advertising and media placement for the school, which joins about 200 full-service clients of the more than 1,000 campuses represented by PlattForm.

Virginia College at Jackson is a private institution of higher education that offers focused career training in the Business Management, Computer Technologies, Cosmetology, Criminal Justice, Office Management, Paralegal Studies and Health and Medical fields. The School is licensed by the Mississippi Commission on Proprietary School and College Registration. License Number C126.

Along with allowing PlattForm to manage media placement, clients who choose full representation have access to the agency’s internal creative staff to target a given demographic through every media option available – television, radio, print, Internet, direct mail, telemarketing and public relations.

About PlattForm

PlattForm is a full-service integrated marketing communications agency specializing in direct-response advertising within the education industry. With its headquarters in Olathe, Kansas, the agency provides all aspects of advertising campaigns in-house. These services include but are not limited to strategic media planning and buying, creative production, web design, full-service web marketing, public relations and telemarketing. PlattForm specializes in the proprietary school market, servicing more than 1,000 campus locations across the USA and Canada. For more information, visit www. PlattFormAd. com.

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Hydrate Your Skin "Naturally" and Affordably This Summer and Beyond

Hydrate Your Skin "Naturally" and Affordably This Summer and Beyond

BioCare Labs Announces Its Nourishing Skin Care Line With Proprietary Ingredient -- Perfect for Any Season. BioCare Labs, the first company in the United States to create a personal care product line infused with an exclusive Alpha Bioplex Complex, introduces new and improved Naturally Clear Skin®. This hydrating skincare line has an average price of $6.99 and is formulated to help to nourish the body.

Chicago, IL (PRWEB) April 10, 2009

BioCare Labs, the first company in the United States to create a personal care product line infused with an exclusive Alpha Bioplex Complex, introduces new and improved Naturally Clear Skin®. This hydrating skincare line has an average price of $6.99 and is formulated to help to nourish the body. Advanced formulas from Naturally Clear Skin® penetrate deep into skin cells, delivering maximum hydration with a clean finish. Naturally Clear Skin® is a revolutionary skincare system that pairs high quality skincare standards with drug store prices for luxurious results.

Naturally Clear Skin®'s proprietary Alpha-Bioplex Complex, helps promote skin renewal naturally through the gentle exfoliation from the fruit acids. Acting as an exfoliant for the top layer of skin, Alpha Bioplex allows the lotions and creams to penetrate deep into skin cells allowing for more effective and longer lasting skin hydration.

"Women and men are constantly searching for lotions to keep their skin hydrated without having to reapply. In response to what consumers are looking for, we created a skincare line that not only delivers long-lasting hydration but exfoliates the skin for deeper penetration that soothes and protects," said Romina Brown, of SSI Consulting, for Naturally Clear Skin®. "BioCare Labs meets those needs by creating a skincare system with natural fruit acids that deliver quality and affordability at the same time."

Naturally Clear Skin® Product Line and Skin-Saving Tips:

Body Butter Daily Use Lotion ($5.99 - 8 fl. oz. and $8.99 - 12 fl. oz.)
Body Butter Daily Use Lotion contains Shea butter, Cocoa butter and a unique Alpha Bioplex that soothes and heals the skin leaving a soft, smooth finish. This nutrient-rich lotion penetrates the skin easily to nourish and detoxify even the deepest layers. Its antioxidant blend of fruit acids acts as an excellent exfoliant and all-day moisturizer to keep skin looking youthful and healthy. This lotion is perfect after showering to help seal in the skin's moisture.

Best Body Oil ($7.99 - 6 fl. oz.)
This rich blend of sesame seed oil and aloe extract will leave skin feeling silky smooth with a few simple sprays. It's easy to use spray bottle nourishes dehydrated, dry skin while it's natural moisturizer ingredient heals the skin and protects it against the harmful sun rays. It's great to use in bath water or on wet skin, usually after showering before moisturizing, to help nourish the skin.

Body Butter Cream ($5.99 - 8 fl. oz.)
This thick, rich lotion combines pure Cocoa butter, African Shea butter, Sugar Cane extract and Olive Oil, some of the world's deepest moisturizing ingredients, to allow for maximum skin hydration. It soothes, heals and penetrates the skin easily to nourish and detoxify the deepest tissue layers and helps to retain moisture by slowing the loss of water through skin layers. This is a perfect lotion treatment for those hard to nourish areas - coat the bottom of your feet with this lotion and put socks on before you go to bed for an all night healing experience.

Healing Hand Cream ($5.99 - 4 fl. oz. and $1.49 - 1 oz.)
This nutrient rich lotion blends African Shea butter, botanical extracts and Vitamin E, to aid in preventing the formation of premature wrinkles. Its natural antioxidant complex neutralizes free radicals, stabilizes cell membranes and protects vital skin cells for healthy cell production. This is a great hand lotion throughout the day and also at night before bed to help soothe and heal the skin.

Lip Moisturizing Treatment ($1.49 - 4 fl. oz.)
This botanical extract complex treats the lips to a nourishing experience and helps to prevent premature wrinkles and acts as a protectant against the harsh environment for healthy cell reproduction. Before going to bed, wipe your lips with a warm washcloth and put on the Lip Moisturizing Treatment for a quick and easy overnight lip repair.

About BioCare Labs
BioCare Labs, located in Bedford Park, IL, has specialized in manufacturing preventive and curative personal care products since 1991. The Naturally Clear Skin line is available nationwide at select Walgreens, Walmart and most fine beauty supply stores as well as select drug stores, grocery stores, and mass merchandisers. The product line has a suggested retail price of $1.49 - $8.99 and all are available nationally online. BioCare Labs also is responsible for the creation of the Maven hair care line and At One with Nature hair care products. For more information about the Naturally Clear Skin® line, visit www. biocarelabs. com or call 1-800-736-8657.

Editors Note: High Resolution images may be obtained upon request

Contact: Teresa Alagna
On behalf of BioCare Labs
312.498.9593
Teresa (at) biocarelabs. com

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New Executive Compensation Survey Is First-Ever Tailored to Small, Mid-Size Companies

New Executive Compensation Survey Is First-Ever Tailored to Small, Mid-Size Companies

Compensation Survey from McDermott Associates Will Provide Unbiased Third Party Data to Benchmark Salaries, Benefits for Top Executives. The Survey Is Open to Businesses with Revenues up to $200 Million.

Red Bank, NJ (PRWEB) July 26, 2010

D. G. McDermott Associates (http://www. dgm. com) and Rider University's College of Business Administration announce the rollout of a new Executive Compensation Plan specifically designed for businesses with revenues up to $200 million. The survey gives company owners the opportunity to compare their executive compensation and benefits plans to industry and the broader market.

Though pay practices continue to take center stage, small and mid-size businesses have not had sources for reliable, unbiased third party data that can help them benchmark their executive pay and benefits plans against a broad cross-section of similar companies. "Most of the scrutiny has been on executive compensation at Fortune 500 companies," says Don McDermott, owner and principal of D. G. McDermott Associates, a Red Bank, NJ, management consulting firm. "The McDermott-Rider Executive Compensation Survey is the first tailored for public and private middle-market companies that will offer confidential, real-world comparisons to other middle-market companies."

McDermott Associates, with consulting specialties in human resources and executive compensation, developed this survey in collaboration with the Rider University College of Business Administration.

The cost for survey participation is $495 per company and enrollment is open for a limited time. Survey participants will receive a customized analysis for 20 senior management titles. Comparisons by position, then by geography, revenues, ownership type and industry category will also be provided.

Those interested in the survey can learn more at http://www. dgm. com/surveyinfo (http://www. dgm. com/surveyinfo) or by calling D. G. McDermott Associates at 732.842.8634. Those who want to enroll can do so at http://www. dgm. com/midbizsurvey (http://www. dgm. com/midbizsurvey) .

About D. G. McDermott Associates:
Founded in 1985, D. G. McDermott Associates, LLC, is a full-service management consulting firm that provides practical human resources and executive compensation programs (http://www. dgm. com/our-services/) to a range of public, private and not-for-profit firms. The company is known for thinking outside the box, and blending successful age-old business practices into modern-day solutions. McDermott Associates is based in Red Bank, N. J., and has served clients in the financial services, health care, durable and nondurable goods industries, utilities, and non-profits. For more information about McDermott Associates, visit dgm. com or call 732.842.8634.

About Rider University's College of Business Administration:
Rider University's College of Business Administration maintains high visibility and involvement in the corporate community outside of the university. It has a well-established reputation as an excellent source of graduates in business and is regarded as a useful and valuable resource for knowledge, business and management talent, economic expertise, and applied research. For more information about Rider University and its College of Business Administration, visit rider. edu.

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The Westchester Business League Presents, "Building for the Future in Today's Economy" on October 27

The Westchester Business League Presents, "Building for the Future in Today's Economy" on October 27

Business leaders from around the tri-state area will gather on Tuesday, October 27, 2009 to share insights, strategies, and tools on how businesses can thrive in today's economic environment.

White Plains, NY (PRWEB) October 14, 2009

Business leaders from around the tri-state area will gather on Tuesday, October 27, 2009 to share insights, strategies, and tools on how businesses can thrive in today's economic environment. The event, part of The Business "Reality" Seminar Series, and entitled, "Building for the Future in Today's Economy," will take place from 8:00 AM to 12PM at Pace University--The Evelyn & Joseph I. Lubin Center Main Auditorium, 1 Martine Avenue, White Plains.

Dr. Greg Chartier, Professor at Pace University and renowned human resources consultant, will make introductory remarks on the future of business in this new economic climate. Dr. Chartier will be followed by keynote speaker Marshall Kaplan, Managing Director, Senior Equity Strategist, Citigroup, who will discuss the U. S. Market Outlook and the impact on GDP today and give insights, tips and tangible tools to help businesses of all sizes invest smartly and securely in this economic climate. Mr. Kaplan, who has more than 27 years of investment industry experience, manages the Citi Private Client Group Equity Model Portfolio team.

Speakers/topics include the following line-up:
■Anthony N. Nuzio, President, ICC Logistics Services, Inc./Reduce shipping costs from small packages to containers
■Michael Weitzner, Esq., Kurzman Eisenberg Corbin & Lever, LLP, The Art of the Deal: Mergers & Acquisitions Make a Comeback
■Art Kurlish, Principal, e-Data Technologies, LLC. Protecting customer credit card information/Online Reputation Management

Moderator Dr. Marsha Gordon, President/CEO, The Business Council of Westchester, will lead a panel of professionals including Barbara E. Bel, CPA, Partner - EZKR LLP, Rob Humphrey, Sr. VP President Strategic Planning, nuBridges, Inc.; Richard Sobel, Sr. VP Risk Manager, Cook, Hall & Hyde; Jason Finkelberg, General Manager, The Peak 107.1; Stephanie Pierce, Sr. VP, Region Manager, Citi; and Stacey Cohen, President, Co-Communications, Inc.

Registration and networking will start at 8:00 a. m. followed by the program. Continental breakfast will be served. The fee for the program is $35--payable on arrival.

All program proceeds will be donated to the United Way of Westchester and Putnam, a 501 C-3 organization.

For additional information and registration, please visit www. westchesterbl. org or call 800-640-9132.

About Westchester Business League:
Established in 2009, Westchester Business League (WBL) is an independent, non-profit membership organization which provides a platform to share critical business information. WBL's Business Reality series provides an ongoing series of lectures presented by its membership and guest speakers.

United Way of Westchester and Putnam:
The United Way of Westchester and Putnam is a local non-profit organization that mobilizes people and resources to address the underlying causes of our area's most pressing issues in the areas of Education, Income and Health, and to create positive, measurable and lasting change in the lives of those who live and work in our community.

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Surety, LLC Survey Exposes Concern About Data Tampering Risks in Collaborative IT Environments

Surety, LLC Survey Exposes Concern About Data Tampering Risks in Collaborative IT Environments

2009 SharePoint Security Survey Proves Organizations with High-Value Electronic Records Need Additional Data Integrity Protection

Reston, VA (PRWEB) April 10, 2009

Surety, LLC (http://www. surety. com), the leading provider of data integrity solutions (http://www. surety. com/products), today announced the results of its 2009 SharePoint Security Survey. The survey of more than 330 respondents spanned a broad spectrum of information technology job titles across markets, and the results revealed overwhelming concerns about the risks of data tampering in collaborative environments, particularly Microsoft® SharePoint®.

Alarmingly, nearly one-quarter of respondents lack confidence that their organizations' electronic records or other digital content are protected when they are being shared within the SharePoint environment, and of the respondents whose organizations have suffered a data breach within their SharePoint system, 67 percent indicated that the tampering was at the hands of a person with access to SharePoint from inside the organization.

"This is not about SharePoint's built-in protection controls, which are good in general, but instead it's about protecting the integrity and authenticity of electronic records that can be shared across multiple parties in any document or records management system (http://www. surety. com/enterprise)," said Bob Flinton, Vice President of Marketing and Product Management of Surety, LLC. "With data security and integrity controls, like third-party digital timestamps (http://www. surety. com/products), integrated into business process systems like SharePoint, organizations are able to deter electronic data tampering more effectively."

The survey also revealed that a majority of organizations are using SharePoint to store and share their most vital electronic records, such as critical intellectual property (IP) records, to strategic corporate planning documents, company financials, employee records, electronic medical records (http://www. surety. com/industries) (EMR) and personal health records (PHR). Forty six percent of respondents estimated that the data housed in their SharePoint systems was valued greater than $10 million dollars. Nearly 30 percent of survey respondents valued the electronic records housed in their SharePoint systems at more than $50 million dollars, with 9 percent indicating that their data was valued greater than $500 million dollars.

Other findings in Surety's 2009 SharePoint Security Survey include:
The ability to authenticate electronic records (http://www. surety. com) is essential in order to prove that these records have not been tampered with (for compliance, intellectual property protection or litigation readiness). Fifty eight percent of respondents indicated that electronic records authentication was either their most important or an important priority for their electronic records. Interestingly, 75 percent of respondents with C-level titles indicated that electronic records authentication is a top-of-mind concern. SharePoint users want additional security and document authentication capabilities in their collaborative environments. Nearly 60 percent of survey respondents believe that adding security and document authentication options to SharePoint would result in a "better and safer collaboration environment," while only 5 percent viewed them negatively. The consequences of a SharePoint security breach extend beyond IT. According to survey respondents, the most significant consequences facing their organization include data loss (62 percent), reputation risk (41 percent), intellectual property compromise (35 percent), and non-compliance with regulations and legislation (31 percent).

To receive a full copy of the findings for Surety's 2009 SharePoint Security Survey, contact surety@speakerboxpr. com.

Survey Methodology
The survey was conducted by eMedia USA on behalf of Surety during the Fall of 2008, and included 336 SharePoint, Network and Systems Administrators, Systems Architects, IT Directors, Security Analysts, Network Engineers, Chief Security Officers and Chief Technology Officers.

About Surety, LLC
Founded in 1994 by leading Bellcore Scientists, Surety is recognized as a premiere third-party time-stamp authority. With over 30 million electronic records and files worldwide protected under its authenticity seal, the company's flagship service offering AbsoluteProof® enables organizations to meet the legal, fiduciary and regulatory responsibilities associated with creating, managing and archiving electronic data by providing verifiable evidence of data integrity and authenticity. The company's client base is made up of legal and financial services firms, healthcare organizations, research and development laboratories, managed services providers and copyright protection agencies that are ensuring record integrity with AbsoluteProof. For more information, visit www. surety. com.

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