Halogen Receives High Ratings from Bersin & Associates

Halogen Receives High Ratings from Bersin & Associates

Company recognized as a market leader, and receives praise for outstanding customer satisfaction

Ottawa (PRWEB) February 6, 2008

Halogen Software Inc., the leading provider of web-based employee performance and talent management software, today announced that independent research firm Bersin & Associates ranked Halogen as one of the market leaders in its recent report on talent management vendors. Halogen received strong ratings in multiple categories related to product strength, architecture and customer satisfaction.

The research study, Talent Management Suites: Market Realities, Implementation Experiences, and Vendor Profiles, evaluated vendors across seven key areas. Halogen received the highest – a four-star ranking - in customer satisfaction based on its outstanding references, support record and overall customer experience.

“Every single customer reference from Halogen was extremely positive. In fact, I interviewed more customers than planned to ensure that the results weren’t an anomaly,” said Leighanne Levensaler, principal analyst for Bersin & Associates, a research and advisory firm focused on enterprise learning and talent management. “Halogen’s customers are fiercely loyal and all plan to implement additional applications in the future. The company received the highest possible ratings on responsiveness, domain expertise, follow-through, and overall partnership.”

The Bersin & Associates study is the first to examine this market, estimated to be at $2.3Billion in 2008, which encompasses strategic HR functions such as recruiting, learning management, compensation, performance management, and succession planning.

“Ensuring a brilliant customer experience is a top priority for our company and every employee’s goals are aligned around this,” said Paul Loucks, President and CEO, Halogen Software. “Bersin & Associates’ high ranking of our company and product suite confirms our strategic direction. This study reinforces that our focus on what really matters – the customer and their needs – is what makes a true market leader.”

About Halogen Software
A recognized and award-winning industry leader with over 1000 customers worldwide, Halogen Software is known for its powerful, simple-to-use and affordable employee performance and talent management applications. The company offers a complete suite of web-based products that automate, simplify and integrate employee performance management, 360/multi-rater feedback, compensation management, succession planning and learning management. Halogen’s offering makes HR best-practices accessible to companies of all sizes and its healthcare, financial services and professional services specific suites meet the unique needs of these industries. Halogen is consistently recognized by the industry and its customers for its exceptional implementation and support services, and has won multiple awards for its corporate leadership and product innovation, including HR Technology Product of the Year. For more information, visit www. halogensoftware. com.

Media contacts:
Donna Ronayne
VP, Marketing & Business Development
Halogen Software
T: 613-270-1011 x 320

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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Health Plan Specialists Debunk the Myth: HSAs are Just for the Healthy

Health Plan Specialists Debunk the Myth: HSAs are Just for the Healthy

Experts in choosing the better health insurance values for their clients prove with actual quotes for co-pay plans and HSA qualified health plans that a well priced HSA plan provides more than enough savings to provide better health care protection for less cost than traditional co-pay plans – for both the sick and the healthy.

Newport, RI (PRWEB) January 16, 2006

The general public has been misled by so-called “experts” who warn of “risks” associated with high deductible health plans used with Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) – especially for the unhealthy.

For far too long people have been advised to choose a plan based on their current needs and that the best plan for someone with a chronic condition is one that will “cover” or pay for the on-going expenses for that condition.

“What the so-called “experts” have failed to do is take into consideration the bottom-line cost for healthcare -- which includes the monthly premiums or cost of the insurance plus all the co-pays, deductibles, and out of pocket costs”, said Emily Harding, principal of Health Plan Specialists.

“Typically with even the most expensive “best” co-pay plan, the co-pays for prescriptions, office visits, and the emergency room are unlimited. They go on and on forever. There is no stop-loss protection like you have with an HSA plan. A $50 co-pay for each of four non-preferred drugs adds up to an extra $200. per month on top of a much more expensive premium for a co-pay plan. This adds to the bottom line cost of healthcare” Harding said.

On the other hand, a high deductible plan used with an HSA provides 100 percent coverage for all expenses including prescriptions, once the out-of-pocket responsibility,(usually a deductible and sometimes an additional coinsurance amount), is met.

Taking a closer look, an article at the Health Plan Specialists website, www. healthplanspecialists. com, called “The Numbers Prove It! Health Savings Account (HSA) Plans Beat the Co-pay plans for Price, Protection and Value!”, compares a $10 office visit co-pay plan available through a leading national health insurer to a family of four to an HSA plan from the same carrier with a $4000 family deductible and 100% coverage for an identical family.

The $10 co-pay plan costs $1203.60 per month and the HSA plan with a $4000 family deductible and 100 percent coverage after that costs $766.42 per month. The gross annual premium savings alone is $5246.16 – more than enough to fully fund the HSA account with $1246.16 savings remaining.

The savings with the HSA plan doesn’t even end there! Once tax savings are taken into account, after the maximum allowable contribution into the HSA account of $4000 is made, the family saves $1200 more in taxes at a 30 percent tax bracket. Interest earnings on the HSA deposits save the family even more.

The unhealthy family who meets their deductible each year, with this HSA plan still saves $1246.16 every year in gross premium savings. Additionally they would realize $1200 in tax savings every year. Interest earnings on the HSA deposits would add more savings for a total savings in excess of $2446 per year.

An identical unhealthy family that chooses the $10 co-pay plan starts out paying $5246.16 more in premiums even before they receive any benefit and then they are responsible for unlimited co-pays on top of that.

“The truth is, contrary to past advice about HSA plans from “experts”, any detailed cost analysis will easily prove there are far more risks and less protection for a much greater cost with co-pay plans than with properly priced and selected HSA plan”-– even for the sick.” said Harding.

Health Plan Specialists is an insurance agency in Newport, RI which provides small group and individual health insurance plans in Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut and strives to provide the best possible health insurance value to is clients using only top rated carriers and plans that provide the best access to hospitals and doctors nationwide.

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Workers Cite Preferences for Reducing Commuting Costs

Workers Cite Preferences for Reducing Commuting Costs

This release shares the results of a poll that asked workers how they want their employers to help them offset the rising costs of commuting.

Shelton, CT (PRWEB) September 24, 2008

Employers searching for ways to help workers offset the rising costs of commuting should consider the results of a new poll by longtime work/life leader LifeCare® (http://www. lifecare. com), Inc. Workers themselves offer their top preferences, which include a 4-day work week and greater telecommuting opportunities -- the two most popular responses to the online poll, which asked:

Other than subsidizing the cost of gas, what is the number one way you'd like your employer to help you cope with the rising cost of your commute to work?
Offer a 4-day work week – 45% More telecommuting opportunities – 34% Subsidize public transportation – 7% Organize car pools – 5% Offer rewards for bicycling, walking or carpooling to work – 4% Offer shuttle services from train stations, bus stops, etc. – 4% Other – 1%

The poll was conducted throughout the month of August on LifeCare's private web site, where employees of LifeCare's 1,500 client organizations were invited to respond.

Each month, LifeCare posts a poll on its private web site, asking individuals to share their thoughts and opinions on the latest issues and work/life (http://www. lifecare. com/news/index. html) trends. Past polls have addressed topics such as work/life balance, health and wellness, aging, flexible work arrangements, and child and elder care needs.

About LifeCare®, Inc.:
LifeCare offers cost-saving benefits that help clients reduce their most pervasive absenteeism and productivity drains, including child and elder care, caregiving support, health and wellness issues, and more. For more than two decades, LifeCare has led the work/life industry in the creation of high-quality, results-oriented programs designed to improve clients' bottom line. LifeCare serves 1,500 client companies with 4.5 million individuals within corporations, health plans, government agencies and unions. For more information, visit www. lifecare. com.

Notes to Editors:
LifeCare's CEO, Peter G. Burki, is available for interview.

Media contact:
Michael Civiello
203-291-4170

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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Jarred Yaron CEO & President for Aqua Matrix Has Made It Easier for People to Break Into the Entertainment Industry With Revolutionary Technology

Jarred Yaron CEO & President for Aqua Matrix Has Made It Easier for People to Break Into the Entertainment Industry With Revolutionary Technology

The concept evolved when Jarred Yaron CEO & President and Dexter Means Vice President simply recognized a need for a service. They felt that they could profoundly affect the casting system of the entertainment industry with the ease of Aqua Matrix.

(PRWEB) December 23, 2004

Aqua Matrix, Inc. is a leading talent technology services company headquartered in the epicenter of the entertainment industry, New York City www. aquamatrix. net.

As a nationally recognized entrepreneur, Jarred Yaron CEO & President of Aqua Matrix credits his success to his ability to create and nurture lasting, functioning, and flourishing relationships. At the age of 25, YaronÂ’s most recent business success has been with Yaron Properties, Inc., closing multi-million dollar real estate deals, acting as CEO of the entrepreneurial real estate investment management firm, based in Philadelphia with offices in New York and Miami.

While Jarred continues to work with Yaron Properties, he simultaneously focuses his time and energy on a new, highly innovative venture: Aqua Matrix, the talent network. Aqua Matrix is a highly revolutionary concept offering online casting for talent and Technology for executives in the entertainment industry, both nationally and internationally. Yaron created Aqua Matrix in the spring of 2003 with friend and former agent, Dexter Means.

The concept evolved when Means and Yaron simply recognized a need for a service. They felt that they could profoundly affect the casting system of the entertainment industry with the ease of www. aquamatrix. net

As a deeply spiritual person, Yaron collaborates with Means to ensure that they focus their efforts not only on the business aspect of the project, but on the sensory and aesthetic value of Aqua as well. “I put great value on the words of Henry Ford, who said: ‘Whether you think you can, or think you can’t, you’re right.’ I believe that it really is that simple, and through Aqua, we can inspire with philosophies such as this and shift the tides of thinking of an entire population who dream to do something bigger, but cannot find a path” Yaron says, insistent about motivating people to have a better attitude about job opportunities.

Although figures such as Donald Trump and Henry Ford are business successes that Yaron respects, he also models additional figures who have affected the world in a much more profound way. Yaron’s philosophy follows that of the greatest figures of the 20th century. The legendary Nelson Mandela and Ghandi are among those who are a major source of personal inspiration. “I believe in much more than providing a service to those that are interested. I am involved in Aqua Matrix because I want people to be honestly informed. I want the Aqua Matrix experience to educate, inspire and motivate. From the music to the lights to the services offered, our guests are getting a first-class experience. Whether they visit us again or not, I want them to leave feeling better for having been here.”

One final aspect of Aqua Matrix that Yaron is happy to divulge is its name origin. The business partners founded Aqua Matrix with a strong sense of both words’ meaning. “Aqua is a very powerful word. The majority of the earth is made of water, and we as humans are made up of mostly water. We developed this name to express to people that they have the resources to be as powerful as the oceans of the world. They have the power to direct their own path.”

“…through Aqua, we can inspire and shift the tides of thinking of an entire population who dream to do something bigger, but cannot find a path …”

Yaron continues his quest for personal enlightenment in all aspects of his life, physically, emotionally, and professionally. He has geared Yaron Properties to succeed in this millennium with revolutionary concepts, including plans for a spiritual development community. This community will offer luxury living that encourages total harmony of mind, body, and spirit. Yaron will make what many consider an abstract idea concrete with an understanding of the importance of a healthy environment to compliment what may be an already healthy mind and body.

Aqua Matrix possesses an additional corporate mission that services industry professionals such as agencies and casting directors, thirsting for fresh, new waves of talent. AquaÂ’s mission is to provide talent-seekers with the most effective means of identification and placement of those individuals they seek to hire. During events, talent is identified and categorized, and the services detailed above help enhance and conform large pools of talent into a manageable database. This database of AquaFiles will be managed and maintained for the industry affiliates that desire accessibility.

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Travers Lasik Wants To Make Sure Patients Know About Flex Spending Accounts

Travers Lasik Wants To Make Sure Patients Know About Flex Spending Accounts

As the year comes to a close and with only a few weeks left to use flex spending, Travers Lasik Vision Care wants to remind patients about the money they can save with their flex spending accounts.

Raleigh, NC (PRWEB) December 20, 2010

Dr. Lori Travers and her staff at Travers Lasik Vision Care would like to remind those who have been thinking about LASIK vision correction that they can apply their flex spending accounts to the procedure.

Many employers provide Flexible Spending Account Plans (FSA) that allows their employees to deduct a percentage of his/her paycheck and use that money to pay for eligible medical expenses on a pre-tax basis. For medical procedures that will likely not be reimbursed by regular health insurance plans, the option to use an FSA is one that can save money for a procedure such as LASIK. 

To find out more about using an FSA, and to learn if your company offers FSAs, speak with your company’s human resources department or manager of benefits.

Travers Lasik Vision Care wants their prospective patients to know the importance of planning a flex spending account appropriately and determining how much money to allocate to an FSA. Dr. Lori Travers and her staff are available to answer your questions and help you achieve the best vision possible.

To set-up a free Lasik consultation or to find out more about using your flex spending account this holiday season with Travers Lasik Vision Care, call toll-free at (888) 747-6808 or visit the website online at http://www. TraversLasik. com.

Travers Lasik Vision Care is located at 2501 Atrium Drive, Suite 200, Raleigh, NC 27607.

Contact:

Pam Ragusa
Practice Manager
Travers Lasik Vision Care
(888) 747-6808
919-510-6830 (local)
2501 Atrium Dr., Suite 200
Raleigh, NC 27607

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Kidnexions Releases the Mac Version of its Kids' Savings Software, KidsSave

Kidnexions Releases the Mac Version of its Kids' Savings Software, KidsSave

This current economic climate is a reminder that teaching kids to save and spend wisely is an important life skill. The award-winning kids' savings and money management software is now available to Mac users.

Rocklin, CA (PRWEB) September 1, 2009

Kidnexions has released the Mac OS X version of its kids' savings and money management software program. KidsSave has been available to Windows users since 2007. Easily downloadable from their website (http://www. kidnexions. com (http://www. kidnexions. com)), the software is offered as a free 35-day trial.

"Our number one request was to develop a Mac version of our software," says Karyn Hodgens, co-founder of Kidnexions. "We know the number of Mac users is a growing population so we wanted to make sure that they had access to KidsSave, as well."

KidsSave was designed as a tool to help parents teach their kids, ages six and up, healthy saving and spending habits. Parents, who take on the role of banker, set up accounts for each of their kids which can include automating allowance and offering incentives to get kids to save through matching funds and customized interest.

Kids have their own PIN number to access their personal account where they can record their income and expenses, view their account history, set personal financial goals, and explore their future account value. The young ones can even learn coin and bill recognition in US, Canadian, and Australian currencies and begin adding and subtracting with money.

"It's the complete money management package," says Hodgens. "Kids are actively involved in their money and that's where the real learning takes place. It's one thing if it's your money that's being spent but entirely different if it's theirs."

These tough economic times are a reminder that it's important to prepare our children for their financial futures. KidsSave offers parents a way to establish the money management life skills so essential for future financial success.

About Kidnexions
Kidnexions (kid∙neck∙shuns) was founded on the idea that kids learn best when engaged in interesting and relevant activities that are connected to their everyday lives. Their goal is to build kids' interests by providing opportunities to develop real-world skills through fun, motivating, and meaningful activities. Kidnexions produces a kids' savings and money management software program called KidsSave.

Karyn Hodgens has a BA in Child Development, a Masters of Arts in Education with a Specialization in Elementary Mathematics, and a multiple subjects teaching credential. Her passion is designing real-world lessons that resonate with kids and their interests. Karyn is currently teaching kids how to prepare for their financial future in addition to writing about kids and money issues. 

John Hodgens has a BS in Electrical Engineering. He is currently a software engineer committed to designing software applications that help make teaching science and math concepts easier.

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Imagination Publishing, Wells Fargo Add Fifth Webcast to Small Business Webcast Series

Imagination Publishing, Wells Fargo Add Fifth Webcast to Small Business Webcast Series

The Webcast, "Sound Credit Practices for Your Business", available July 29, 2008, will feature a panel discussion with leading financial industry insiders and business owners on how to effectively manage business credit and cash flow.

Chicago, IL (PRWEB) July 26, 2008

Partnering with Imagination Publishing, Wells Fargo announced the latest addition to its Small Business Webcast Series of interactive, online sessions, designed to help small business owners meet their business growth and management goals. Sound Credit Practices for Your Business, available July 29, 2008, will feature a panel discussion with leading financial industry insiders and business owners on how to effectively manage business credit and cash flow. The program focuses on financial management principles that support long-term stability and growth.

Sound Credit Practices for Your Business (http://www. wellsfargo. com/biz/webcast) offers tips and strategies to small business owners looking for ways to safeguard and strengthen their businesses. This webcast will provide informative, relevant and timely advice on how to implement and manage sound credit practices.

Moderator of the webcast, Rich Sloan, co-founder of StartupNation. com, said, "The Wells Fargo Small Business Webcast Sound Credit Practices for Your Business provides the definitive overview of what you need to know, why you need to know it, and specific strategies you can put to work right away no matter what the stage of your business is or standing of your business credit may be."

Registration for this webcast is now available at www. wellsfargo. com/biz/webcast (http://www. wellsfargo. com/biz/webcast )

Featured Panelists
Michael Billeci, Regional President, Greater Bay Area Region, Wells Fargo Scott Anderson, Ph. D. Senior Economist, Wells Fargo Gerri Detweiler, Co-founder, BusinessCreditSuccess Jerry L. Mills, CPA, Founder and CEO, B2B CFO Sharon Evans, President and CEO, The Business Resource Group

About the Wells Fargo Small Business Webcast Series
Wells Fargo's Small Business Webcast Series of interactive, online sessions is designed to help small business owners meet their business growth and management goals. The series, which launched in 2007, is one of Wells Fargo's many resources to help small business owners succeed financially.

The latest addition to the library of small business resources in the webcast series is Sound Credit Practices for Your Business. The webcast series library also includes: Financing Strategies for Your Business, Protecting Your Business, Technology and Your Business, and Health Care Options for Your Business.

For more information on the series or to view one of these programs, visit http://www. wellsfargo. com/biz/webcast (http://www. wellsfargo. com/biz/webcast)

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Industrial Nanotech, Inc. Extends Distribution to African Markets

Industrial Nanotech, Inc. Extends Distribution to African Markets

Industrial Nanotech, Inc. (Pink Sheets:INTK), an emerging global leader in nanotechnology, announced today that it has awarded African distribution rights for its Nansulate® product line to Megaros Industrial Products.

Naples, Fla. (PRWEB) September 8, 2007

Industrial Nanotech, Inc. (Pink Sheets:INTK), an emerging global leader in nanotechnology, announced today that it has awarded African distribution rights for its Nansulate® product line to Megaros Industrial Products.

Since 1995, Maryland-based Megaros Industrial Products has cultivated a significant track record in the engineering, industrial products, and specifically in high tech coatings. Its projects include public works, including those in association with the Maryland Highway Administration.

"We are very excited to begin our alliance with Industrial Nanotech and feel their products can have a lasting impact in Africa. Our efforts will be focused on both the industrial and residential areas," said James Umekwe, President, Megaros Industrial Products, Inc. "We feel that Nansulate has great potential in industrial markets like oil & gas, petrochemical and manufacturing to decrease energy use, protect equipment and decrease carbon emissions. On the residential side, we look forward to introducing a product that provides an economical means to keep homes cooler, thus improving quality of life. We look to make Nansulate a household name, and, as our business grows, to offer employment and economic opportunities throughout Africa."

Industrial Nanotech and Megaros see areas of economic opportunity in many parts of Africa. For instance, Botswana and South Africa are two of Africa's most successful economies. South Africa has access to financial capital, numerous markets, skilled labor, and first world infrastructure in much of the country. Botswana's capital and largest city, Gaborone, is one of the world's fastest growing cities. Nigeria sits on one of the largest proven oil reserves in the world and has the highest population among nations in Africa, with one of the fastest-growing economies in the world.

"We welcome Megaros Industrial Products to our network of international distributors," states Francesca Crolley, VP of Operations and Marketing for Industrial Nanotech, Inc. "We are excited to enter the African market and see many opportunities for our nanotechnology-based coatings to provide energy savings, corrosion resistance, and improve health conditions by keeping buildings and dwellings cooler despite the common lack of air conditioning, as well as provide protection from mold growth and encapsulation of lead-based paints. We look forward to continued expansion in this region."

About Nansulate(R)

Nansulate(R) is the Company's patented product line of specialty coatings containing a nanotechnology based material and which are well-documented to provide the combined performance qualities of thermal insulation, corrosion prevention, and resistance to mold growth in an environmentally safe, water-based, coating formulation. The Nansulate(R) Product Line includes both industrial and residential coatings.

About Industrial Nanotech Inc.

Industrial Nanotech Inc. is quickly emerging as a global nanoscience solutions and research leader. The Company develops and commercializes new and innovative applications for nanotechnology. Additional information about the Company and its products can be found at their websites, (http://www. industrial-nanotech. com (http://www. industrial-nanotech. com)) and (http://www. nansulate. com (http://www. nansulate. com)).

Safe Harbor Statement

Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: This release includes forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that involve risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, the impact of competitive products, the ability to meet customer demand, the ability to manage growth, acquisitions of technology, equipment, or human resources, the effect of economic and business conditions, and the ability to attract and retain skilled personnel. The Company is not obligated to revise or update any forward-looking statements in order to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this release.

SOURCE: Industrial Nanotech, Inc.

CONTACT:  For Industrial Nanotech Inc., Naples
Investor Relations:
Martin E. Janis & Company, Inc.
Beverly Jedynak, President, 312-943-1100 ext. 12
Bjedynak @ janispr. com

Or

Media Inquiries:
Martin E. Janis & Company, Inc.
Laura Grock, Vice President, 312-943-1100 ext. 13
Lgrock @ janispr. com

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Psychiatrists Advised FDA 14 Years Ago Not to Act on Suicide and Homicidal Antidepressant Risks

Psychiatrists Advised FDA 14 Years Ago Not to Act on Suicide and Homicidal Antidepressant Risks

"The blood of the thousands of children who have died is on psychiatry's hands," watchdog group says.

(PRWEB) November 19, 2005

While two FDA Advisory Committees recommended antidepressants carry a "Black Box" warning of suicide risks for children and adolescents, the Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR), an international psychiatric watchdog group, said psychiatrists had sufficient evidence 14 years ago to recommend such a warning pointing out that the blood of children, who had violently ended their lives while taking antidepressants, was on FDA officials' hands. However, CCHR says the failure to stem the flow of blood rests with a panel of psychiatrists in 1991.

In 1989, CCHR used the Freedom of Information Act to obtain FDA Adverse Reaction Reports on the first Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) marketed. The documents revealed that over 500 deaths had been linked to the drug and that 83 children between the ages of 4 and 18 had attempted suicide. Two children aged 5 had committed suicide and 77 experienced hostility, agitation and intentional injury. CCHR, along with medical experts, presented evidence of homicidal and suicidal drug reactions to the FDA's Psychopharmacological Drugs Advisory Committee in 1991. The panel comprised nine psychiatrists and a psychologist who ignored parents and family members' testimony about the violent and suicidal effects of the drugs.

Bruce Wiseman, CCHR's National President said. "The FDA may be accountable for failing to warn the public, but psychiatrists were their advisors with a vested interest in maintaining a multi billion dollar child drugging industry. Now, in the wake of international controversy over the antidepressant drugs' great risk to children's lives, psychiatrists claim they were unaware of the potential harm to children. This is a lie and they should be held accountable," he stated.

During what CCHR executives call "more than a decade of battling" to obtain the right for people to be fully informed about drug risks, the group filed complaints with FDA officials, The Inspector General of Health and Human Services, Health Canada and the U. S. Attorney General's office, among others. The questionable psychiatric diagnoses for which the SSRI antidepressants were being approved were the underlying concern for CCHR.

CCHR says that labeling children with "depression" and other childhood problems as "mental disorders" has become a cash-cow—a multi billion dollar child drugging industry, fueled by the American Psychiatric Association's billing bible, The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders (DSM).

The manual contains 374 mental "disorders," including mathematics, reading and written expression disorders, "oppositional defiant disorder" if a child argues with his parents and "conduct disorder" if he is too rambunctious.

Tana Dineen, Ph. D., author of Manufacturing Victims, says, "Unlike medical diagnoses that convey a probable cause, appropriate treatment and likely prognosis, the disorders listed in DSM-IV are terms arrived at through peer consensus"—a vote by APA committee members. In other words, there is no objective science to them.

Dr. Thomas Szasz, Professor Emeritus of Psychiatry at the State University of New York Upstate Medical University in Syracuse says, "There is no blood or other biological test to ascertain the presence or absence of a mental illness, as there is for most bodily diseases."

Brian Beaumont, President of the Vancouver chapter of the Citizens Commission on Human Rights says, "There is no science to childhood psychiatric disorders. Any child who is so labeled is on a one-way ticket to drug dependence or suicide. As for the children who have committed suicide or died while taking an antidepressant in the last 14 years, their blood is caked on psychiatry's hands. Psychiatrists should be held accountable for both the lack of 'science' behind their diagnostic criteria and for any lethal consequences of their drug practices."

With psychiatrists negating the evidence, the number of children prescribed the drugs has escalated. Children aged 1 to 17 now account for 7% of the antidepressants sold in today's $12 billion a year market. Of the 11 million prescriptions for children in 2002, 2.7 million were for those aged 12 and under.

The Citizens Commission on Human Rights was established by the Church of Scientology in 1969 to expose and eradicate psychiatric violations of human rights.

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Las Vegas Real Estate Pre-Construction Sales

Las Vegas Real Estate Pre-Construction Sales

The Las Vegas condominium real estate market is taking an upward turn for pre construction condo sales. Real estate buyers and investors alike in Las Vegas are jumping at the chance to cash in on the latest Las Vegas real estate frenzy.

Las Vegas, NV (PRWEB) December 15, 2004

The Las Vegas real estate housing market is taking an upward turn. Over the course of the last two years, developers have seen an opportunity to market and build luxurious high-rise condominium projects to help overcome the lack of land available for single family residential developments in Las Vegas.

With over thirty new high-rise Las Vegas luxury condos in pre development or development stages, Las Vegas builders are trying to market to upscale buyers and Las Vegas real estate (http://www. mygorealty. net) investors with good reason. According to the National Association of Realtors, condo sales are growing at a more rapid rate than single family homes.

When you compare the Las Vegas Condos (http://www. mygorealty. net/Las-Vegas/Real-Estate/7/Condos. jsp) market to some of the better established luxury real estate, vacation and condo markets in the country including Destin Florida, Miami, Sarasota, Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head, Austin Texas and even New York, you will find a significant pricing trend that will likely occur here in Las Vegas. Vacation homes and condos with good locations in these markets usually demand anywhere from $400 to over $1000 dollars per square foot.

Most luxurious condos located in the Las Vegas real estate market offer the owners of these developments, 24 hr guard gated security, concierge services, health and spa facilities, gourmet grocery shopping, fine dining, dry cleaners and lush worry free landscaping. All of these Las Vegas Luxury condos will also include some of the most picturesque views of the famous Las Vegas Strip.

Condos in Las Vegas are predicted to sell quite rapidly. With the above average appreciation rates and lifestyles that condos afford, it becomes apparent to Las Vegas buyers and investors alike that purchasing a condo is a sound financial decision whether you intend to use the property as a primary residence, vacation home or investment property.

No one can predict future values, but with a thriving Las Vegas economy, competitive interest rates, above average appreciation and 35 plus million visitors a year lends us guidance that Las Vegas investment real estate would make a sound financial decision.

To learn more about investing in Las Vegas or to receive more information on the condominium developments currently under construction visit our websites or contact a member of MyGoRealty. net @ 702-300-1004. www. mygorealty. net

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P. F. Chang's China Bistro Celebrated for Gluten-Free Menu Endorsed by the Gluten Intolerance Group during its Inaugural Chef to Plate Event

P. F. Chang's China Bistro Celebrated for Gluten-Free Menu Endorsed by the Gluten Intolerance Group during its Inaugural Chef to Plate Event

Restaurants across America will help spread awareness of gluten intolerances by participating in the Chef to Plate Awareness Campaign launched this year by the Gluten Intolerance Group of North America. Restaurants offering gluten-free meal options are helping 15 million Americans dine out without fear. The Chef to Plate Awareness Campaign celebrates these restaurants during May - Celiac Awareness Month. P. F. Chang's will offer a guided tour of the kitchen at its Sherman Oaks location, May 3, 2009 at 11:00am, which will demonstrate its commitment to providing safe meals for those with gluten-intolerances.

Sherman Oaks, CA (PRWEB) April 30, 2009

P. F. Chang's China Bistro invites guests to dine on a gluten-free menu. At P. F. Chang's the goal for each customer is to enjoy their culinary journey. With that in mind, Chang's has created a gluten-free menu for those guests with gluten intolerances and are excited to welcome gluten intolerant diners in the Sherman Oaks-area to sample the gluten-free cuisine.

Restaurants across America will help spread awareness of gluten intolerances by participating in the Chef to Plate Awareness Campaign launched this year by the Gluten Intolerance Group of North America. Dining out can be difficult for persons with celiac disease and other forms of gluten intolerances. Restaurants offering gluten-free meal options are helping 15 million Americans dine out without fear. The Chef to Plate Awareness Campaign celebrates these restaurants during May - Celiac Awareness Month.

May is celebrated worldwide as celiac awareness month. 1 in 133 people suffer from celiac disease, an autoimmune disease that damages the intestine when proteins from wheat, rye or barley (gluten) are eaten. Celiac disease is most commonly associated with early bone disease, anemia, infertility and aggressive cancers, but can include many symptoms in every body system. For another 15 million people in the US, gluten intolerance doesn't damage the intestines but causes symptoms that interfere with their ability to feel healthy. Although limited, research suggests that a gluten-free diet may be helpful in a number of health conditions. The issue affects many families with children who fight to live a gluten-free lifestyle, as they see such an improvement in behavior and overall health.

"We are thrilled that a restaurant group of P. F. Chang's China Bistro's caliber is offering a menu to support this initiative," said Cynthia Kupper, RD and Executive Director of the Gluten Intolerance Group of North America. "Wheat is found in many foods, making it difficult to eliminate gluten. Offering gluten-free menu choices can be as easy as omitting foods or making creative substitutions to existing menu items. P. F. Chang's has been committed to providing a safe eating experience for those with gluten intolerances. "We are excited to provide our customers with a premium gluten-free dining experience that offers both culinary cuisine and great value. Dining gluten-free doesn't have to be expensive or complicated. P. F. Chang's China Bistro enables its customers to enjoy enticing dishes on a regular basis," said Rick Tasman, COO for P. F. Chang's China Bistro. "We are proud to offer a variety of few gluten-free dishes including Chang's Chicken Lettuce Wraps, Chang's Spicy Chicken and the Flourless Chocolate Cake.

Chef to Plate is a national awareness campaign of the Gluten Intolerance Group of North American (GIG) and is being supported locally by P. F. Chang's China Bistro. To learn more about the Chef to Plate: Celebrating Restaurants Serving Up Gluten-Free Awareness Campaign, participating restaurants, celiac disease, GIG or the campaign endorsers visit http://www. gluten. net/events. php (http://www. gluten. net/events. php).

As part of the Chef to Plate event, P. F. Chang's China Bistro will celebrate it's offering of a gluten-free menu on Sunday, May 3rd from 11:00am-2:00pm, in its Sherman Oaks location at 15301 Ventura Boulevard. Please join us at 11:00am for a guided tour of the kitchen, which will demonstrate how P. F. Chang's is committed to providing safe meals for those with gluten-intolerances. Attendees of the event will be responsible to pay for any meals ordered.

About Gluten Intolerance Group of North America
The Gluten Intolerance Group®, also known as GIG®, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that has provided consumer and food industry support and education for 35 years. GIG is funded by private donations including the Combined Federal Campaign, United Way Designated Giving, Employer Matching Funds, proceeds from memberships, the sale of products and our educational resources. Cynthia Kupper, Registered Dietician and Executive Director, is a respected authority in gluten intolerances, food industry programs and the gluten-free diet. For more information about GIG contact Ms. Kupper at 253-833-6655 or visit www. gluten. net.

About P. F. Chang's China Bistro, Inc.
P. F. Chang's China Bistro, Inc. owns and operates two restaurant concepts in the Asian niche. P. F. Chang's China Bistro features a blend of high-quality, traditional Chinese cuisine and American hospitality in a sophisticated, contemporary bistro setting. Pei Wei Asian Diner offers a modest menu of freshly prepared Asian cuisine in a relaxed, warm environment offering attentive counter service and take-out flexibility.

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MDM Group Joins Russian Biotechnological Consortium for Medicine and Agriculture (BIOMAC)

MDM Group Joins Russian Biotechnological Consortium for Medicine and Agriculture (BIOMAC)

MDM to Work With BIOMAC to Develop Russian Technologies for Use in the MDM Biodefense Initiative

SANTA CLARA, CA (PRWEB) July 14, 2005

MDM Group, Inc. (OTC. PK: MDDM) advises that it has signed an agreement to participate in the Russian Biotechnological Consortium for Medicine and Agriculture (BIOMAC). BIOMAC will use its resources as an interdepartmental instrument of the Russian government-private partnerships to locate technologies from throughout Russia. Further, BIOMAC will also be an advocate for technology transfer.

Consortium BIOMAC was formed in 2001 within the framework of the Agreement between four ministries of the Russian Federation: Ministries of Industry, Science and Technology, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Agriculture, and the Ministry of Education. Since inception, BIOMAC has been expanded to include the Russian Academies of Sciences, of Medical Sciences, and of Agricultural Sciences.

Under the Consortium BIOMAC memorandum:

BIOMAC will assist MDM in locating novel drugs, vaccines, diagnostics, and related technologies that directly apply to MDM's Biodefense Development undertakings; and, BIOMAC will assist in the area of technology transfer as it relates to the Russian government.

Since MDM's November 10, 2004, announcement of the establishment of its Biodefense Division, MDM's team has been evaluating several technology opportunities from sources around the world. Consistent with its original mandate, MDM's focus is on niche projects in Defense or Homeland Security that have confirmed markets and can progress rapidly to products for countermeasure enhancement.

Dr. Ed Stephen, head of MDM's biodefense division, recently completed a one-month trip to Russia where he visited numerous partner research institutes and discussed many potential projects for MDM's Biodefense Development. Dr. Stephen commented, "Our ISTC Partnership, primarily involving former defense institutes, and now our membership in the Consortium for Medicine and Agriculture creates an immediate and important extension to the scientific capabilities and the facilities available to us. MDM has signed multiple NDAs and is now in the process of signing agreements for technologies that it will pursue in the short-term."

MDM Group is a development stage Company focused on the Security, Biodefense, Law Enforcement and Homeland Security industries See: www. mdmgroupinc. com

Safe Harbor Statement

The information in this release, other than historical information, may be considered forward-looking statements within the provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Projection and other forward-looking statements and management expectations regarding future events and/or financial performance of the Company -- although given in good faith -- are inherently uncertain and actual events and/or results may differ materially.

For further information see: http://www. mdmgroupinc. com (http://www. mdmgroupinc. com).

SOURCE: MDM Group, Inc

MDM Group is featured on www. Homelanddefensestocks. com a global investment research portal for defense and security.

Contact:

MDM Group, Inc.

Trevor Ruehs

866-894-3910

Contact via http://www. marketwire. com/mw/emailprcntct? id=F8E9E26FEA9187AD (http://www. marketwire. com/mw/emailprcntct? id=F8E9E26FEA9187AD)

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Separation of Church and Hospital?

Separation of Church and Hospital?

University President Warns Health Care Public Option May Endanger Religious Expression in Health Care as in Public Schools

Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) September 5, 2009 -

Dr. Everett Piper, President of Oklahoma Wesleyan University and a regular contributor at Politicalmavens. com is speaking out about the "public option," for health care, expressing concern that it would likely lead to curbs on religious expression, similar to the ones he has encountered in public education.

"If the best predictor of future behavior is past behavior why would we think that the 'public option' for hospitals would bear any different fruit than the 'public option' we have had for education for the past 50 years?" noted Piper. "Think of it this way:...why would a chaplain be permitted to talk about the salvation of Christ with dying patients in the local hospital when that same minister is prohibited from talking about the existence of Christ with healthy students in the local high school?... Based on our experience in public education shouldn't we expect public healthcare to have the same separation of Church and State imposed on it that has been imposed on our schools for decades? 

Medical professionals have long recognized the important connection between faith and medicine. The Boston Globe recently published an article entitled on the increased number of chaplains being hired by hospitals in an effort to address the growing belief within medical circles that providing patients the option to seek spiritual council "increases patient and family satisfaction and may even provide medical benefits." 

"The best predictor of future behavior is past behavior" said Piper. "If we want to know where government controlled healthcare will lead then all we have to do is to look down the path already trod by government controlled education."

Piper's observation raises concern for those who have terminally ill loved-ones. Will patients and their family members be given the freedom to request the presence of their spiritual advisor in the last hours of the patient's life, or will they be forced to accept the cold, dank, sterile hospital room as comfort for their fleeting last breath?

"Ideas have consequences and the ideas being debated right now are not new. They have been in play for years and we have a clear predictor of what may lie ahead. Unfortunately the medicine some of our leaders want us to take has not made us well in the past but to the contrary it seems to have made us sick - perhaps even sick unto death."

Dr. Piper is available for select interviews. To schedule an interview with Dr. Everett Piper, please contact Toni Burge at: prmedia. contact (at) gmail (dot) com

To read Dr. Piper's writings on Political Mavens, please go to: www. PoliticalMavens. com/everettpiper  (http://www. PoliticalMavens. com/everettpiper )

To learn more Dr. Piper, please visit www. EverettPiper. com

To learn more about Oklahoma Wesleyan University, please visit: www. okwu. edu

To read more on the Boston Globe article mentioned above, please visit:
Http://www. boston. com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2009/08/31/more_patients_seeking_spiritual_guidance_from_chaplains/ (http://www. boston. com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2009/08/31/more_patients_seeking_spiritual_guidance_from_chaplains/)

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Remaining 'Bankable' when Credit is Tight

Remaining 'Bankable' when Credit is Tight

The Federal Reserve Board has recently reported that almost all funding institutions tightened their lending standards on Commercial & Industrial loans due to a less favorable or more uncertain economic outlook. So what can a business do?

Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) November 28, 2007

All businesses need a financial reporting system that produces critical, accurate and real-time data of their business operations. Lack of complete, correct, or up-to-date financial reports is a common reason for loans being rejected.

"A discipline and rigor with respect to financial record keeping and controls will be required as part of your business loan package," according to Mike Miller, Director of www. cfo911solutions. com. Financial reports need to be produced on a timely basis for accounts receivable, accounts payable, operating results and borrowing needs just to name a few. Bank accountants and auditors will be sent in to your business to confirm the accuracy of your financial reports prior to funding any loans.

Accurate financial reports and controls are but one piece of the puzzle as credit markets tighten. "Business borrowers will also need to do a better job demonstrating their ability to repay a loan from cash flow generated by their business" according to Marshall Lebovits, principal of www. funding911.com. Preparing a well written executive summary addressing the key questions a banker will ask will provide them greater comfort during their pre-loan review process.

To find out how CFO 911 Solutions and its partner, Funding 911, can help you, connect to www. cfo911solutions. com and www. funding911.com.

About CFO 911 Solutions:
CFO 911 professionals are the leading, hands-on experts in solving operating, accounting and finance problems for both public and private companies. CFO 911 interim or temporary professionals have amassed a unique depth and breadth of operational and finance experience developed by having worked as Presidents, COOs and CFOs inside Fortune 500 firms, micro cap publicly traded companies, private emerging growth companies and not-for-profit organizations.

Our experience includes a variety of industries: software, telecommunications, wireless services, systems integration, aerospace, defense, manufacturing, distribution, entertainment, health care, medical devices, apparel, transportation, food, computer hardware and peripherals, internet portals, E-commerce, motor sports, specialty retail, restaurants, automotive aftermarket, satellite radio and heavy construction.

To help you improve your bottom line, call our office @ (310) 574-9119, or visit our newly updated website at: www. cfo911solutions. com.

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Jiangsu Sopo and DuPont Packaging & Industrial Polymers Sign Final Agreements for Vinyl Acetate Monomer Technology

Jiangsu Sopo and DuPont Packaging & Industrial Polymers Sign Final Agreements for Vinyl Acetate Monomer Technology

Jiangsu Sopo (Group) Co., Ltd. and DuPont Packaging & Industrial Polymers (DuPont) have signed Definitive Agreements to license DuPont technology for a new 330,000 tons/year vinyl acetate monomer (VAM) manufacturing plant to be located in Zhenjiang, China.

Zhenjiang, Jiangsu China, and Wilmington, DE (Vocus) October 29, 2009

Jiangsu Sopo (Group) Co., Ltd. and DuPont Packaging & Industrial Polymers (DuPont) have signed Definitive Agreements to license DuPont technology for a new 330,000 tons/year vinyl acetate monomer (VAM) manufacturing plant to be located in Zhenjiang, China. DuPont will provide VAM technology under license and technical assistance for this new Sopo VAM facility.

The planned VAM facility will be integrated into other Sopo petrochemical facilities currently located on their Zhenjiang site. The site includes manufacturing of chlorine alkali products and rubber accelerants; a methanol plant and a 1,200,000 ton per year acetic acid plant which will supply the acid feedstock to the VAM project. The VAM plant is scheduled to be operational in 2013.

“DuPont is licensing the commercially demonstrated, world-class technology that we use to produce our VAM product that is sold around the globe,” said Steven Ogle, licensing business director -- DuPont Packaging & Industrial Polymers. “Our state-of-the-art technology and commitment to operational and technology advancements have allowed us to continually increase our production effectiveness.”

“As a China state high-tech enterprise, Sopo is one of the influential acetic acid manufacturing enterprises globally. Sopo possesses a relatively complete chain for the coal industry, with a focus on acetic acid, while integrating upstream and downstream products. The new VAM project will further optimize the corporate structure for the Sopo group. It is a critical step to strengthen our capabilities and enhance the enterprise,” said Qinhua Song, chairman and president -- Sopo. “We’ll be able to establish a more comprehensive industry chain and thereby greatly increase the overall competitiveness of Sopo after the VAM project startup production.”

"We are pleased that Sopo has selected DuPont VAM technology and expertise for their petrochemical plant expansion,” said William J. Harvey, president -- DuPont Packaging & Industrial Polymers. "Licensing our technology to Sopo demonstrates our commitment to using market-driven technology to meet customer needs and enable growth in emerging global markets. Our relationship with Sopo is a model for future growth."

“DuPont, as an esteemed global company, possesses many advanced technologies. Sopo, an important global chemical industry group, selected VAM technology from DuPont to serve the need for the development of our company. The agreement is a win-win solution for both companies,” said Shouyan Shao, vice president -- Sopo. “This project is the first cooperation between Sopo and DuPont and it marks a very good beginning. We look forward to further cooperation with DuPont in other areas.”

Sopo is a chemical industry company. Founded in 1958, Sopo is devoted to the development of the native chemical industry and environmentally friendly chemical industry technologies, and the upgrade of native chemical industry to a higher level, with “pursuit of persistent exploration and share of achievements with the common people” as its everlasting objective. In particular, Sopo makes great achievements in the area of the coal chemical industry focusing on acetic acid.

DuPont is a science-based products and services company. Founded in 1802, DuPont puts science to work by creating sustainable solutions essential to a better, safer, healthier life for people everywhere. Operating in more than 70 countries, DuPont offers a wide range of innovative products and services for markets including agriculture and food; building and construction; communications; and transportation.

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Will the Twentysomethings Ante Up at the World Series of Poker?

Will the Twentysomethings Ante Up at the World Series of Poker?

Parent, educator and author of Talkin' About Poker: Straight Talk for Parents and their Players; Loren Ackerman has first hand experience in parenting a college age child who loved the game of poker, especially No Limit Texas Hold'em. Her new book promotes parent education, tips for communicating with college age children and observing behaviors to determine if poker is being played in a healthy way or leading to a dangerous lifestyle.

Hackettstown, NJ (PRWEB) June 27, 2006

Poker. It is everywhere and thousands of college kids are playing with vengeance. The World Series of Poker in Las Vegas has begun with an expected 7,000 attendees. Many of these competitors will be the twentysomethings who have been playing for months in their dorm rooms or at local tournaments to prepare for their adventure of achieving the brass ring, or should I say the gold WSOP bracelet. The final results will record the realities.

In the meantime, it is estimated that 1 out of every 3 college student is playing poker. Some casually, some seriously and some dangerously. What’s the big deal? The statistics can be frightening for any parent whose college age child is participating in this new craze. In a September 2005 study on gambling addiction by the University of Pennsylvania’s Annenberg Public Policy Center, 54.4% of young people who gambled every week reported at least one serious “problem” as a by-product.

Does this statistic mean that every young adult that plays poker will have a problem? No; not all players will become addicted. What does it mean? It means that parents need to observe their kids poker behaviors. How? Education, communication and evaluation are the means to determining if a young poker player is headed for danger. Answer the following questions:

What do I know about my child and poker? What poker games does my child play? Does my child play live games or use the internet? How often does my child play poker? How do I know this game is not becoming a problem for my child?

Parents need to be aware of the amount time spent on playing poker and diligently observe behaviors to determine if their college kids are playing safe or headed down a dangerous path.

Contact

Loren Ackerman

High Powered Publishing

908-852-0322

Www. talkinaboutpoker. com

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Message from NGO "Brotherhood of Orphans": To Everyone in a World Who Wants to Make a Difference to Orphans in Ukraine

Message from NGO "Brotherhood of Orphans": To Everyone in a World Who Wants to Make a Difference to Orphans in Ukraine

To everyone in a world who wants to make a difference to orphans in Ukraine. Tell your friends about this event and take a step to help other this year 2005. The idea to build a home for 12 Ukrainian orphan kids age 11-13 came to my mind one morning after I saw a wonderful Christmas movie on a TV. This is a really necessary project to do together with people who want to make difference in orphans? lives. Our local government meets our ideas and only wishes to raise funds to build such home for 12 kids. ?The House of Hope? is going to have Dear Friends and Sponsors from all over the World.

(PRWEB) January 8, 2005

Happy New Year I wish you, who share love and care of orphans. Many years I do something for orphans who left without parental care and live in orphanages of Ukraine. My name is Andriy Nazarenko and I am Ukrainian. I was an orphan for 13 years and that is why orphans? problems are very close to me. One of the biggest problems which orphans have in Ukraine is home and people who may care for them while they are children. Nothing is important and remembers like our childhood. All kids deserve to grow up in a healthy environment with a family.

The idea to build a home for 12 Ukrainian orphan kids age 11-13 came to my mind one morning after I saw a wonderful Christmas movie on a TV. This is a really necessary project to do together with people who want to make difference in orphans? lives. Our local government meets our ideas and only wishes to raise funds to build such home for 12 kids.

?The House of Hope? is going to have 4 bedrooms, a kitchen, a bathroom, a living room. Around the house will be garden where kids will learn some life skills. The staff of the house is: Director, accounter, psychologist, and housekeeper. They will not live there, besides director and housekeeper. Every day children will attend local public school. During free time from school specialists will teach kids new skills as: a computer basis, English, cooking, handcrafts, Christian moral, shopping, planting, gardening, and cleaning after themselves. They will learn to be independent more than it is in an orphanage.

I am sure that this experience in our Ternopil region will show others changes in orphans lives. All special events and life stories of the kids who will live in the house is going to share with a community and more people may involve to this project. Please give your support today and you will see positive results in happy faces of children without parents. The sum we would need to set everything up is $200,000.

Once again, I wish you all the best in New Year and if you have friends around, share this news with your community. Take care and let God to fulfill your desires. Thanks for your time and I look forward to hear from you soon.

Sincerely,

Andriy Nazarenko

P. s. We are starting raising funds now and already have $2,000. If you want to send gift today, please do: The address:

Andriy Nazarenko

33015 75th Street

Burlington, WI 53105

USA

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LATISTA Strengthens Hospital Offering with California OSHPD Solution

LATISTA Strengthens Hospital Offering with California OSHPD Solution

New OSHPD-specific workflow and configuration for LATISTA Field allows project teams to collaborate and meet strict quality and documentation requirements on the most complex California healthcare construction projects.

Fairfax, VA (PRWEB) January 8, 2010

LATISTA Technologies (http://www. latista. com) has released a specific workflow and configuration for its LATISTA Field software that enables hospital contractors and owners to meet the requirements of the state of California’s Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (OSHPD). This solution helps hospital contractors and owners automate their jobsite processes and create OSHPD-compliant documentation, augmenting LATISTA’s already strong hospital-construction functionalities.

The California Office of Statewide Planning and Development enforces strict regulations governing the design, construction, and maintenance of buildings in the state to ensure their safe use and structural soundness. OSHPD requires hundreds of hours on the jobsite conducting thousands of inspections to manage lists of specifications, track pages of drawings, communicate reports, create a chronological record of construction, and file results with the state. LATISTA Field’s OSHPD process saves time for field personnel and ultimately reduces project cost and helps the hospital proceed through occupation, licensing, and evaluation sooner.

LATISTA has signed several contracts for use on California hospital projects and will provide construction teams with a collaborative system for tracking quality that includes the state’s certified inspectors and documentation. In addition to LATISTA’s OSHPD compliance workflow, contractors and owners use the software for quality management, Building Information Model (BIM) integration, risk management, and communications between various parties.

Previous hospital projects outside of California have already successfully implemented LATISTA. Barton Malow Construction recently completed the Western Maryland Health Systems (WMHS) Health Center in Cumberland, Md. The $277 million, 585,000 sq. ft. project equipped nine LATISTA Field users with three portable tablet PCs and several laptops in the field to conduct quality and punchlist inspections and to track materials. “It’s a lot easier to keep electronic records in LATISTA, rather than shuffling papers,” said Barton Malow Project Manager Mickey Meredith. “Our inspectors probably saved 20 hours a week on retyping alone.”

Clark Construction Group, LLC, and its joint venture partners are also using LATISTA on Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Md., and on Walter Reed Army Medical Hospital in Bethesda, Md. Clark’s successful experiences with the software led them to sign an agreement to use LATISTA companywide in 2009. The company’s rollout plan incorporates employees, capital project owners, architects, and subcontractors for inspections, quality assurance, safety, materials and production tracking, and commissioning.

LATISTA Field enhances productivity through automation of the work on the jobsite and ties stakeholders together around standardized processes and communications. The LATISTA-implemented OSHPD workflow incorporates third-party inspectors such as architects, engineers, and inspectors of record (IOR). Including all parties in one system eliminates problems with coordinating communications and rekeying large volumes of inspection information. This is ideal for hospitals where high quality and compliance are essential.

For OSHPD projects, LATISTA users can manage inspections so the contractor can track issues and statuses in real time. Quality checklists and reporting provide an easy automated template to quickly see if each party is performing up to standards. All team members work on the same quality plan and initiate inspections for the IOR to come in and use the same templates to approve the OSHPD compliance. This removes paper from the process and helps manage multiple parties as they are working. If there are construction deficiencies that impact quality, all relevant parties are can see it in real time.

“California’s OSHPD requirements are stringent but necessary to protect public health and wellbeing,” says LATISTA Vice President Chris Ramsey. “The LATISTA Field OSHPD workflow manages field processes and creates web-based documentation, so that contractors and owners meet stringent requirements head-on and can turn over hospital projects sooner with higher quality.”

For more information on the LATISTA healthcare solution and OSHPD workflow processes, visit latista. com/industries/healthcare (http://www. latista. com/industries/healthcare).

About LATISTA Technologies
LATISTA’s mission is to enable contractors and capital project owners to dramatically improve operational efficiency and deliver higher quality facilities on time by offering a comprehensive enterprise field management solution. LATISTA Technologies (latista. com (http://www. latista. com/)) has been a leader in quality and field management solutions and services since its founding in Reston, Va., in 2001. Its software is used by top 200 contractors and top 50 owners worldwide to improve operational efficiency and enhance collaboration among project participants.

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Self Hire Tools Can Prove an Effective Money Saver According to Ratedpeople. com

Self Hire Tools Can Prove an Effective Money Saver According to Ratedpeople. com

Tool hire services are cost effective DIY resource.

London, UK (PRWEB) November 17, 2009

Home owners who have a high degree of DIY knowledge but no access to tools can benefit from using tool hire services when conducting home improvements according to Ratedpeople. com, the UK's largest matchmaking service for home improvers and recommended tradesmen.

If a home owner has enough experience with making alterations to their property and the skills to use the heavy duty equipment involved in the more complex elements of DIY then they can save themselves money by renting these tools from a hire firm, which can provide the more expensive machinery at a far lower cost.

The user can benefit from this in many ways. Whilst saving their hard earned cash by conducting the labour needed for the work by themselves, hire firms provide the flexibility that removes the need for long term investment in heavy duty DIY apparatus. The home owner also benefits from the flexibility of being able to manage and execute a project by themselves, ensuring that the time frame suits them and that it is done to a standard that meets their expectations.

Ottokar Rosenberger, Sales and Marketing Director at Ratedpeople. com, said: "The use of hire tools in DIY projects can indeed have many financial and convenience benefits for a home owner. They can provide those people with the skills to significantly improve their home with the means to do it.

"We would always recommend that a home owner takes care when planning a project to undertake alone, to ensure that there are no health and safety hazards prior to, during and following the work. It is always a good idea for a home owner to consult a professional if they are not 100% confident in the ins and outs of a task."

Ratedpeople. com helps home improvers find recommended tradesmen quickly and easily. You can choose from 24 different trades and find tradesmen such as window specialists (http://www. ratedpeople. com/find/windows), local electricians (http://www. ratedpeople. com/find/electrician) or local builders (http://www. ratedpeople. com/find/builder).

Every month, Ratedpeople. com manages over £30m in home improvement projects with more than 1,000 tradesmen signing up, making it the UK's largest match making service for home improvers and recommended tradesmen. There are more than 55,000 ratings on Ratedpeople. com to date and its system ensures that tradesmen are only rated by previous customers who find them through the site. This results in one of the fairest and most robust rating systems on the web.

For further information on how to source a recommended tradesman in your area, visit Ratedpeople. com.

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Organic Cotton Baby Clothes – New Baby Safe Business Helps Father-Daughter Duo Fight Danger of Toxic Chemicals and Pesticides

Organic Cotton Baby Clothes – New Baby Safe Business Helps Father-Daughter Duo Fight Danger of Toxic Chemicals and Pesticides

Organic cotton baby clothes are the life's work of a young California mother who educated her father about the danger of pesticides and herbicides in conventionally grown cotton. "I didn't want toxic chemicals to touch my newborn, and I knew other parents would feel the same way -- if they understood the danger." So, the father-daughter duo decided to do something about it. Safe, soft, stylish organic cotton baby clothes are what they came up with.

Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) November 8, 2006

A young California mother and her father are the owners of Sage Creek Naturals USA, Inc., a new company that sells quality organic cotton baby clothes and bedding, free of the pesticides and chemicals commonly used in the production of conventional cotton fiber.

"Some parents just don't realize the serious impact that herbicides and other chemicals can have on the health and safety of their infants," says Sage Creek Naturals co-owner Sheryl Zeyen. "Everyone knows it's dangerous to eat or inhale toxic substances, but how many consider that our skin also absorbs chemicals -- and that a baby's skin is only one-sixth the thickness of an adult's?"

As the owner of a large national software company, Zeyen's father, Alan Cohen, never dreamed he would launch a baby clothing business. Yet, he admits being surprised when his daughter -- pregnant with her first child -- educated him about the dangers of conventionally grown cotton.

"What Sheryl said got my attention, especially when I learned that even one tiny cotton shirt -- the kind sold at Wal-Mart and Target, right on up to those sold in exclusive department stores -- requires a quarter-pound of chemicals to grow the cotton," says Cohen. "Now I know the truth. This so-called 'natural' fiber is the most pesticide-dependent crop in the world."

According to the Organic Trade Association, an organization that encompasses all sectors of the organic industry from food to fashion, U. S. organic product sales are a $15 billion a year industry. "The cotton used to manufacture Sage Creek's clothing is grown according to highly regulated guidelines and practices established by Skal International," says Cohen. Skal International, an independent, nonprofit inspection organization, certifies Sage Creek's organic cotton with the Skal seal. This seal of approval is not only a guarantee of organic standards, but also signifies that the social rights of cotton producers are upheld.

Zeyen says the fact that her daughter Rachel Chana, was born two months premature, provided the incentive to produce high quality organic cotton baby clothes and bedding that would benefit her child as well as children everywhere.

"Every baby is small and vulnerable, but Rachel Chana was especially tiny. Our concern for her health inspired us, and the business developed from there." Now, the playful, smiling toddler models Sage Creek organic cotton baby clothes on her mother's and grandfather's company website www. sagecreeknaturals. com.

With organic foods gaining in popularity and now found in the local grocery store, there is an increased awareness about the healthier choices available to families. "Parents are concerned about providing food choices for their children that taste good and are healthy also," says Zeyen. "The trend is when there's an option available that looks and tastes great and it happens to be organic too, parents and grandparents are saying 'yes'! When it comes to organic cotton baby clothes and bedding, Sage Creek is the "delicious and healthy choice for kids."

Zeyen says it is the quality of their organic cotton that led moms and dads to ask that a line of bedding be created just for them. "Parents love their Sage Creek organic cotton sheets just as much as babies love sleeping on their organic cotton crib sheets."

"Sage Creek organic cotton baby clothes are modern yet nostalgic. Luxurious and innocent. Sophisticated with a touch of sweetness. But the first thing parents notice, before anything else, is how soft and well-made our clothes and bedding are."

Sage Creek organic cotton baby clothes can be found online, in boutiques and at select quality retailers, says Zeyen.

To see all the great styles and range of products available from Sage Creek visit www. sagecreeknaturals. com or call Sage Creek at (877) 513. 2183.

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TruePresence Earns 2008 Franchise 50 Award

TruePresence Earns 2008 Franchise 50 Award

National Internet Marketing Firm Recognized as Top 50 Franchise in Under 50 Class Based on Franchisee Satisfaction

Baltimore, MD (PRWEB) February 28, 2008

TruePresence, a national Internet marketing firm, announced today that it has been recognized as a Top 50 franchise by market research firm Franchise Business Review in its 2008 Franchise 50 Franchisee Satisfaction Awards competition. TruePresence (http://www. truepresence. com) was named one of the Top 50 franchises in franchisee satisfaction in the Under 50 class of systems with fewer than 50 units. The awards were announced at the recently-concluded International Franchising Association (IFA) Conference held in Orlando, FL.

"We are thrilled to be recognized as a 2008 Franchise 50 based on the satisfaction of our franchisees," said Michael Teitelbaum, President of TruePresence. "It is validation that our strong franchise-building model (http://www. truepresence. com/pages/franchiseopportunities/the-truepresence-advantage. php), including an extensive training and support system, has been a valuable investment for our franchise owners."

According to Franchise Business Review, 153 franchise businesses were recognized in the 2008 Franchise 50 Awards out of more than 325 participating companies. The Awards are an annual ranking of franchise companies by their level of franchisee satisfaction. They are based on independent survey results of thousands of franchisees conducted by Franchise Business Review each year. TruePresence joins other local franchisors on the list, including Sandler Sales Institute, Passport Health, and JumpBunch.

As a low-investment franchise in a booming market, Teitelbaum said franchisee satisfaction is essential to sustaining the company's growth.

"Internet marketing with TruePresence is a red-hot business opportunity," said Teitelbaum. "Our objective is to attract the best and brightest sales and marketing professionals to this opportunity and provide them with a solid foundation to establish the most successful business possible."

About the Franchise Business Review
Franchise Business Review is a national franchise market research firm that performs independent surveys of franchisee satisfaction. The critical areas of a franchise system are examined, including training & support, operations, franchisor/franchisee relations, financial opportunity, and more. Survey results deliver unbiased facts about the overall health of a franchise system direct from today's franchise owners. For more information, visit http://www. franchisebusinessreview. com (http://www. franchisebusinessreview. com) or http://www. fbr50.com (http://www. fbr50.com)

About TruePresence
TruePresence is a national Internet marketing firm dedicated to helping businesses of all types and sizes find, get, and keep customers. The company's unique franchise approach lets clients work strategically with a local consultant, while a national team of web design, development, and online marketing experts manages the fulfillment of each client solution. Headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland, TruePresence currently has 24 franchise offices operating across the country and is actively expanding to new markets. For more information, visit http://www. truepresence. com (http://www. truepresence. com).

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Aventine Co. Names Benjamin L. Metzger, MD as Medical Director

Aventine Co. Names Benjamin L. Metzger, MD as Medical Director

Aventine Co., a medical communications agency focused singularly in pain management, appoints new medical director.

Montclair, NJ (PRWEB) July 28, 2010

Benjamin L. Metzger, MD has been appointed as Medical Director for Aventine Co., a medical communications company singularly focused in pain.

In addition to maintaining a private practice, Dr. Metzger will be involved in developing information, training, and educational activities in his position as Medical Director at Aventine Co., which also produces the national PAINWeek® conference and manages the American Society of Pain Educators (ASPE). As a frontline clinician whose practice needs requires continuing pain management education, he is representative of PAINWeek and ASPE healthcare providers who seek to further their competencies in this increasingly important area of clinical medicine. As Medical Director Dr Metzger will be involved in the development of PAINWeek curriculum, continuing education activities, conducting needs assessments, reviewing guidelines and acting as liaison to with the healthcare provider community and professional societies.

Dr. Metzger received his bachelor of arts from Columbia University and his medical degree from Jefferson Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University. He conducted his postdoctoral training at Lennox Hill Hospital with a residency in internal medicine where he was named Resident of the Year, followed by a fellowship in nephrology. Most recently Dr. Metzger has been appointed as Clinical Instructor of Medicine at New York University Langone Medical Center. Prior to completing his medical school studies, Dr. Metzger developed continuing medical education (CME) programs primarily in the area of central nervous system (CNS) disorders, and has co-authored journal articles and posters on nephrology-related topics.

For additional information, please visit www. aventinehealth. com and www. painweek. org.

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Urgent Care Centers, Inc. and The Cirrus Group Ink Definitive Partnership Agreement

Urgent Care Centers, Inc. and The Cirrus Group Ink Definitive Partnership Agreement

Urgent Care Centers, Inc. is an innovative urgent care and diagnostic imaging provider. The Cirrus Group is a leader in the medical office building, ambulatory surgery center and specialty hospital markets. The companies have agreed to partner in the establishment of ImMEDiate CARE and Diagnostic Centers in a number of states.

Alpharetta, GA (PRWEB) November 9, 2006

Urgent Care Centers, Inc. of Alpharetta, GA and The Cirrus Group of Dallas, TX have signed an Agreement for The Cirrus Group to purchase an interest in Urgent Care Centers, Inc.

The Cirrus Group, L. L.C., (www. thecirrusgroup. com) is a full-service real estate development company specializing in the delivery of customized real property within which state-of-the-art medical services are performed. Since its founding in 1996, The Cirrus Group prides itself with its history of 100% on-time/in-budget projects, its capability in offering a wide menu of real estate services, and its intimate knowledge of medical operations to allow Cirrus's clients the ability to reach their full economic and operational potential.

The Cirrus Group regularly teams up with its sister company, a medical operator named Cirrus Health, L. P. (www. cirrushealth. com), to conceive, create, and deliver complex and multi-faceted medical services delivery systems including a full spectrum of medical operations and innovative healthcare facilities. In combination with Cirrus Health, The Cirrus Group has created some of the most innovative medical services delivery systems seen in various markets around the country.

Urgent Care Centers, Inc. is a new company formed by experienced healthcare service company entrepreneurs. It was a wholly owned subsidiary of Physician Partnerships International, LLC. The principals of the Company have over 25 years experience establishing and operating a number of "niche" healthcare companies.

According to Randy Tibitts, CEO of Urgent Care Centers, Inc., "The Cirrus Group is an excellent fit for our new company. Everyone is now into "retail" urgent care. This leaves the neighborhood medical office buildings to us. The Cirrus Group appears to us to be the leader in the market for this type of facility." He goes on to say, "According to statistics available on the Urgent Care Association of America's website, (www. ucaoa. org) only approximately 11% of the current urgent care centers in America have imaging capabilities other than regular x-ray. Many of ours will house 64 slice high speed CT scanners, ultrasound and other imaging modalities."

Urgent Care Centers, Inc. will operate walk-in medical clinics as ImMEDiate CARE and Diagnostics.

The first centers will open in Ohio, Texas, Oregon and Georgia 1st Quarter 2007.

Statements included in this release that are not historical facts may be considered forward-looking statements that are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties. There are a number of important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements made by the Company including, but not limited to, the impact of competitive products and pricing, technological changes, changes in relationships with strategic partners and dependence upon strategic partners for the performance of critical activities under collaborative agreements, the ability of the Company to successfully directly market and sell its products, market opportunities, risks associated with strategic opportunities. Any forward-looking statements contained in this news release speak only as of the date of this release, and the Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future results or otherwise.

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Sierra Tucson Recognizes Honorees at "Gratitude for Giving" Breakfast in Los Angeles

Sierra Tucson Recognizes Honorees at "Gratitude for Giving" Breakfast in Los Angeles

Sierra Tucson, celebrating 25 years of compassionate care and clinical excellence, will host their annual "Gratitude for Giving" Breakfast to honor professional clinicians in the Los Angeles area who dedicate their life work to recovery and treatment of addictions and mental/behavioral disorders. Nearly 300 experts in the field participate to honor their colleagues who have been nominated and selected by fellow clinicians. Sierra Tucson will pay tribute to the community and bestow peer Recognition Awards for 11 special categories.

Los Angeles, CA (Vocus) June 17, 2009

Sierra Tucson, a premier treatment center dedicated to the prevention, education, and treatment of addictions and behavioral disorders, will be hosting a "Gratitude for Giving" Breakfast on Wednesday, June 17, 2009, from 9:30 - 11:00 a. m. at Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills, 300 South Doheny Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90048. Over 275 attendees are expected to join this celebration to pay tribute to their peers. Media are invited to attend free of charge.

Among those being recognized for their years of service to others are:
In Memoriam:
Lee Bloom, M. D., Pasadena Recovery Center Brian Edward Brekke, LAC, Sober College F. Kenneth Schonlau, M. P.A., Los Angeles County Sober Living Coalition

Action Recognition: Chet Wilson, Ph. D., Private Practice

Compassion Recognition: Alexander Bystritsky, M. D., Ph. D., UCLA

Hope Recognition: Jennifer Freed, Ph. D., Academy of Healing Arts for Teens: a nonprofit program of the Family Therapy Institute

Humility Recognition: Sharon Dunas, MFT, NAMI Westside-LA

Resource Recognition: Christopher Gomberg, M. Ed., Cedars-Sinai Medical Center

Spirit Recognition: Dr. Katherine Sellwood, Private Practice

Vision Recognition:
Michael McCann, M. A., Matrix Institute Jeanne L. Obert. MFT, MSM, Matrix Institute Richard A. Rawson, Ph. D., Matrix Institute

Wisdom Recognition: Entertainment Industries Council

Pillar of the Community: Joanne Barron, CADC, Insight Treatment Programs

Gratitude Recognition: Michael Stone, M. D., Cornerstone of Southern California

"The Addictions and Mental Health community is full of compassionate, giving people," acknowledges Christi Cessna, Sierra Tucson's Marketing Director. "In the past, there has not been a forum to publicly acknowledge these gracious individuals and healers in our community. Sierra Tucson is honored to provide a venue to celebrate these amazing individuals who have contributed to our field. Of all the events that Sierra Tucson sponsors, this is the one that truly brings inspiration to our staff and to those in attendance."

Sierra Tucson is an internationally renowned, accredited treatment center and a dually licensed psychiatric hospital. Sierra Tucson is a leader in providing innovative, individualized treatment plans (http://www. sierratucson. com/) for coexisting addictions, mood and anxiety disorders (http://www. sierratucson. com/programs_mooddsrdrs. php), eating disorders (http://www. sierratucson. com/programs_eatdsrdrs. php), sexual and trauma recovery, and chronic pain (http://www. sierratucson. com/programs_pain. php). Located on 160 acres at the foot of the Santa Catalina Mountains near Tucson, Arizona, Sierra Tucson offers a beautiful natural healing environment and the highest level of confidentiality. For more information, call 800 842 4487 or visit http://www. SierraTucson. com (http://www. SierraTucson. com).

Sierra Tucson is a member of CRC Health Group, the most comprehensive network of specialized behavioral care services in the nation. CRC offers the largest array of personalized treatment options, allowing individuals, families, and professionals to choose the most appropriate treatment setting for their behavioral, addiction, weight management and therapeutic education needs. CRC is committed to making its services widely and easily available, while maintaining a passion for delivering advanced treatment. For over two decades, CRC programs have helped individuals and families reclaim and enrich their lives. For more information, visit http://www. CRChealth. com (http://www. CRChealth. com).

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Dr. Karen Norum Presents "Sound Blessings" The Gift of Eclectic Ponderings on the World Talk Radio Network

Dr. Karen Norum Presents "Sound Blessings" The Gift of Eclectic Ponderings on the World Talk Radio Network

Recovering academic Karen Norum, Ph. D. hosts a new LIVE internet talk radio show beginning Wednesday, November 4 at Noon Pacific Time on the World Talk Radio Variety Channel that is a provocative synthesis of ancient wisdom and current theory all the while offering the gift of eclectic ponderings.

Phoenix, AZ (PRWEB) October 28, 2009

Former professor, current Feng Shui practitioner, professional bridal coach, travel consultant, and laughter yoga leader, and local radio show host Dr. Karen Norum launches a new live internet talk radio show called "Sound Blessings" on World Talk Radio.

Starting Wednesday November 4, 2009, "Sound Blessings" will air from Noon-1:00PM PT. It is re-broadcast 12 hours later and available through a 24/7 archive at the computer and through web enabled cell phones away from the computer.

Karen will be utilizing an interactive style which will include live call ins, e-mail correspondence, and guest interviews. The show will reflect her eclectic background and commitment to not stop questioning. The show is not so much about finding answers, but living the questions. Karen will take listeners on a journey, ending unplanned, and a journey that gives listeners something to think about.

"Sound Blessings," is also the name of Karen's business. "Sound" can refer to a tone, reverberation, resonance as well as something that is healthy, well-founded, valid, or reasonable. A "Blessing" is a gift or a benefit, something that brings help, appreciation, or well-being. The Sound Blessings of this radio show will come in the form of topics that are well-founded and of benefit. Everything is energy and energy vibrates. The intent of the show is to raise the vibration of listeners, guests, the host herself, and in the process, raise the vibration of what is around us.

Sound Blessings airs live on Wednesdays at 12 Noon Pacific / 2 PM Central / 3 PM Eastern on the World Talk Radio Variety Channel. To access the show, log on at http://www. modavox. com/worldtalkradio (http://www. modavox. com/worldtalkradio). All shows will be available in Karen Norum's Content Library on the World Talk Radio Variety Channel for on-demand and podcast download.

The VoiceAmericaTM Network offers the latest conversations in a talk radio format, providing education, interaction, and advice on key issues live, on demand as well as through pod cast download. If interested in hosting a talk radio show on VoiceAmerica Network, contact Jeff Spenard, President of Internet Radio at 480-294-6417 or at jeff. spenard (at) modavox. com.

Contact Senior Executive Producer Stephan Jacob at 480-294-6413 for advertising / sponsorship information or other show details.

About World Talk Radio/Modavox:
(OTC. BB MDVX), Modavox is the leading producer and distributor of online talk radio content, streaming approximately 250 hours of live programs and scheduled replays weekly on its Modavox World Talk Radio™ Network (http://www. worldtalkradio. com (http://www. worldtalkradio. com)). Modavox, Inc. (http://www. modavox. com (http://www. modavox. com)) is a pioneer in internet broadcasting, producing and syndicating online audio and video, and offering innovative, effective and comprehensive online tools for reaching targeted niche communities worldwide. Through its patented Modavox technology, Modavox delivers content straight to desktops and Internet-enabled devices. Modavox provides managed access for live and on-demand internet broadcasting and syndication, content management, online meetings, event management, enterprise communications and distance learning.

Forward-Looking Statements:
This release contains "forward-looking statements" for purposes of the Securities and Exchange Commission's "safe harbor" provisions under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and Rule 3b-6 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties that could cause Modavox's actual results to differ materially from those currently anticipated, including the risk factors identified in Modavox's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

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SheKnows and RealMomsGuide Launch Reality Web Series

SheKnows and RealMomsGuide Launch Reality Web Series

SheKnows. com, one of the fastest growing online destinations for women, and RealMomsGuide. com the premier online community for moms, is proud to announce the launch of the reality web series; Real Moms Guide: Season 1, which portrays the lives of four very unique mothers.

Phoenix, AZ (PRWEB) June 18, 2009

Distinguished from other sites by its social community and content written by real moms, Real Moms Guide offers women a place to connect with other mothers while blogging, exchanging advice, sharing stories, uploading photos and videos and more!

Meet the Moms!
Meet Vanessa, perfectionist and mother of five children who is quickly learning that perfection does not exist.

Meet Lindsey, RMG's new mom trying to cope with her son's medical conditions while also dealing with a colicky newborn.

Meet Dana, mother to a young baby girl. She's a high-powered attorney, presently battling breast cancer and recovering from a double mastectomy.

Meet Ida, mother of five, who struggles to fulfill her own dreams by going back to school while still caring for her family.

Follow all four mothers through the joy and challenges of motherhood. A new episode will be released every Monday through the end of October. Watch the Real Mom Guide: Season 1 (http://realmomsguide. sheknows. com/video/real-moms-guide-phoenix/epsiode-1)

The Joys (and Challenges…) of Motherhood
"Sometimes motherhood can be an isolating experience. At Real Moms Guide I've connected with so many moms online and those relationships have been my salvation," relates SheKnows co-founder Betsy Bailey.

Connect with other moms
In addition to debuting the Real Moms Guide: Season 1, realmomsguide. com (http://www. RealMomsGuide. com) gives moms access to printable shopping lists, how-to guides, a recipe database, coupons, monthly cash-prize contests and community groups.

The Real Moms Guide community is enjoyed by all types of moms and offers everything from movie reviews, food tips and recipes, advice on relationship, love, sex, parenting tips and much more. It's where all moms belong!

About SheKnows:
Getting to the heart of what it really means to be a woman, SheKnows. com (http://www. sheknows. com) attracts more than 24 million unique visitors. With editors dedicated to providing daily content for women seeking advice, information and a fresh fun take on life, the site is the authoritative source for women ages 18 to 54. The SheKnows audience gains access to exclusive content on entertainment, parenting, health and wellness, money and career, dating, beauty and style and more, and are offered a stimulating, well-rounded online experience enhanced with a vibrant message board community, free games and activities, and captivating blogs.

As one of the fastest growing destinations on the web, SheKnows is consistently one of the top 10 properties for women, generating over 150 million page views each month. For advertisers, opportunities for sponsorship and creative integration go well beyond the banner and make marketing messages an uninterrupted part of the user experience. The company is based in Los Angeles with offices in New York, Scottsdale and Chicago. SheKnows is part of atomic Online (http://www. atomiconline. com), a diversified online media company.

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RUNBOX PRESS RELEASE - Going from a free email service to a paid email service

RUNBOX PRESS RELEASE - Going from a free email service to a paid email service

There is a viable long-term business buried in a large free user base, but the process requires that you dare say goodbye to 98% of your users.

(PRWEB) May 15, 2002

runbox had to write off 98% of its users to make money and continue to

Provide great service to the remaining 2% that converted to paying customers.

The Internet boom brought a number of free email services. Today, many

Of the free email service companies are running out of cash. Most free

Email companies believe the free users will never pay for the service,

So they fold the service - and often the company itself - rather than asking for a fee.

Lately, several email services (even large ones like for example

MyVisto. com with millions of free users and millions of USD in the

Bank), have closed their free service without even trying to ask their

Users for a fee.

Runbox has found that there is a viable business buried in a large free

User base. However; making the transition from a free email service to a paid email service, required saying goodbye to 98% of your users.

I am the founder and managing director of runbox AS ("AS" is Norwegian

For Incorporated). I founded runbox in 1999, and developed it into the

Provider of a free email service called runbox mail manager, found at

Www. runbox. com. runbox is a true Internet start-up, where a small number

Of dedicated individuals set out to make the worlds best email service:

We wanted vast storage space for email, extensive email management

Features and no advertisements. We built a system to fit our own

Unfulfilled and demanding email needs, a classic story.

Runbox soon became a success, we were listed on Yahoo, Open directory,

EmailAddresses. com and many other places - As a result, we quickly

Surpassed 100 000 registered users world wide and kept growing faster

And faster. We were not making any money off of our user base, but we told ourselves

That we would develop business models as we went along; such as selling

Private label versions of the service. Life was easy, money was easy,

And we had a lot of fun.

Then the. com doom reared its head for real in the summer of 2001. At

First we believed it would pass, and that everything would soon be back to normal. As we all know, it did not go back to "normal". By summer

2001, our cash was gone, and there was no more investor money to get. runbox decided we had to turn to the users for money; in short, that we

Had to become a paid service.

The decision was made and we spent a hectic few weeks preparing for a

Credit card processing system, updating the database and building a referral program tracking system.

We explained the situation to our users. We shared the fact that in

Order to survive and continue delivering the great service runbox would

Now have to become a paid service, we humbly asked for our users

Understanding. We priced the service at a subscription rate of USD 29.95

Per year. runbox found that whether to pay or not to pay, was the

Question for our users. We found that the users demanding a high

Performance email service and the extra storage space, were more than

Willing to pay USD 29.95 for it. runbox users are even willing to pay

Upfront for two and three years of service.

Runbox found that our users understood and approved. We have received

Dozens of comments like "runbox was too good to be free in the long run,

Here is my payment, keep up the good work".

The result? more than 2% of our former free users now pay for the service. Still, the best part is that we are not only having our existing users paying, we are also getting new paying customers, every day.

What about the 98% of our user base that went out? However much we

Regretted having to introduce the payment requirement to our users, the

Free model did not have the right of life for us. There was little other

Choice than to bid farewell to the 98% of our users that did not want to pay for the service.

Becoming a paid service has yielded all kinds of positive effects, the

Fact that we now have a long term viability to the business, has given a moral boost to everyone involved. The load on our system is greatly reduced allowing for strong growth with existing hardware. On the business side, runbox has got a healthy injection of fresh money from our existing paying customers and continual new revenue from new customers. We discovered the age-old truth that to succeed you

Must focus on delivering great service to your paying customers.

In short; runbox has gone from a free email service that was losing

Money to a paid email service that is profitable. We now see a bright

New future for our company and our service.

Hans Jørgen Lysglimt

CEO / Founder

Runbox AS

Hj@runbox. com

Www. runbox. com

Copy of this press release is posted on runbox website at:

Http://docs. runbox. com/en/info/ci/pressrelease. doc (http://docs. runbox. com/en/info/ci/pressrelease. doc)

Press images of CEO Hans Jørgen Lysglimt for free publication at:

Http://docs. runbox. com/en/info/ci/press/images/default. doc (http://docs. runbox. com/en/info/ci/press/images/default. doc)

Contact:

Hans Jørgen Lysglimt

CEO / Founder

Runbox AS

Kongens gate 24

N-0153 Oslo

Norway

Hj@runbox. no

Www. runbox. com

Www. runbox. no

Office:

Info@runbox. com

Phone: +(47) 24 14 99 50

Fax: (47) 24 14 99 59

Cell phone +(47) 92 41 05 10

***************************

Main URL: http://www. runbox. com (http://www. runbox. com)
Help URL: http://docs. runbox. com (http://docs. runbox. com)
Features: http://docs. runbox. com/en/info/default. doc (http://docs. runbox. com/en/info/default. doc)
FAQ: http://docs. runbox. com/en/help/faq. doc (http://docs. runbox. com/en/help/faq. doc)
Support email: support@runbox. com

Make your runbox email experience even better with runbox addons. Get

Faxes directly to your email address, register and use runbox with your

Own domain name, etc:

Http://docs. runbox. com/en/info/addons. doc (http://docs. runbox. com/en/info/addons. doc)

Join the Runbox Affiliate Program. Recommend Runbox Mail Manager to

Your friends and make USD 11 for every paying user you refer to runbox:

Http://docs. runbox. com/en/info/referral. doc (http://docs. runbox. com/en/info/referral. doc)

Runbox AS is a privately owned Norwegian limited company, developing and

Hosting custom made email solutions based on the runbox email

Application platform. runbox' latest customer, NRK, is the largest

Broadcasting company in Norway (see http://www. nrkpost. no (http://www. nrkpost. no)). runbox is working with NASDAQ listed (TELN) Norwegian telecom operator

Telenor (www. telenor. com) to integrate the runbox email application with

Chargeable SMS services for mobile phones.

All runbox servers run Linux supported by runbox Linux partner Linpro (www. linpro. no) and are hosted with NASDAQ listed (KQIP)

KNPQwest (www. kpnqwest. no).