The Branding Power of Pay-Per-Call Television Advertising for Consumer Products

The Branding Power of Pay-Per-Call Television Advertising for Consumer Products

Performance Marketing is not just about todayÂ’s profits.

(PRWEB) November 9, 2004

Who wouldnÂ’t want to advertise on television and only pay for results? Many advertisers who have used popular pay-per-click programs on the Internet are now discovering that a similar model exists on television known as pay-per-call advertising. This model is quickly changing the face of performance-based advertising as it provides a powerful way for advertisers to generate leads while building mass brand awareness for their products and services.

Joseph Gray, CEO of REVShare, the company credited with establishing the pay-per-call television industry, points out that many companies engaging directly with consumers through the Internet are beginning to do the same through pay-per-call television. As an example, he points out that companies in the consumer goods industry are starting to utilize pay-per-call to offer coupons or free samples via television while building brand.

“Commercials without a call to action might be entertaining but when you add a 1-800 number or web site address in a pay-per-call campaign, you are now only paying for consumers who respond while exposing your brand to the entire television audience,” says Gray.

According to Gray, Procter & Gamble has used 1-800 numbers to offer discount coupons in television commercials for its Swiffer product line. Household items are a natural fit for pay-per-call advertising because they appeal to a mass market that can easily be reached through the wide diversity of television programming that is available through pay-per-call advertising. The health and beauty industry is also a perfect match for pay-per-call.

Companies that prefer to use television to build their brand but drive leads to their web sites can use a URL in their commercials instead of a 1-800 number. For some campaigns, this eliminates the high cost of call processing.

REVShareÂ’s Vice President of Marketing, Jay Levin, will share strategies for pay-per-call advertising at AD:TECH on November 10th, and at PROMO Expo on November 16, 2004.

TelevisionÂ’s largest broker of performance-based advertising, REVShare (http://www. REVSharetv. com (http://www. REVSharetv. com)) brokers guaranteed media on over 600 stations, the majority belonging to networks such as ABC, NBC, CBS, and FOX.

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James J. Dunn (Most Recently of Wilshire Associates) Named Chief Investment Officer at Wake Forest University

James J. Dunn (Most Recently of Wilshire Associates) Named Chief Investment Officer at Wake Forest University

Wake Forest University President Nathan O. Hatch has appointed James J. Dunn as vice president and chief investment officer. He will assume his new duties July 1, 2009. Dunn will manage the university's endowment funds and other financial assets from the Reynolda Campus, Wake Forest University Health Sciences and Reynolda House. The chief investment officer works closely with the president, and also with the Trustee Investment Policy Committee. He will succeed Louis R. Morrell, vice president for investments and treasurer, who will retire June 30. Morrell has served as vice president and treasurer since 1995.

Winston Salem, NC (PRWEB) June 10, 2009

Winston-Salem, North Carolina (PRWEB) June 10, 2009 -- Wake Forest University President Nathan O. Hatch has appointed James J. Dunn as vice president and chief investment officer. He will assume his new duties July 1.

Dunn will manage the university's endowment funds and other financial assets from the Reynolda Campus, Wake Forest University Health Sciences and Reynolda House. The chief investment officer works closely with the president, and also with the Trustee Investment Policy Committee.

He will succeed Louis R. Morrell, vice president for investments and treasurer, who will retire June 30. Morrell has served as vice president and treasurer since 1995.

Most recently, Dunn has been a managing director at Wilshire Associates Incorporated and chief investment officer and portfolio manager for Wilshire Funds Management in Santa Monica, Calif. Wilshire Associates is a leading global investment technology, investment consulting and investment management firm. At Wilshire, he has been responsible for providing leadership on asset allocation, investment policy, and investment manager selection for the asset management arm of Wilshire Associates.

Dunn served from 2002-2005 as vice president of alternative investments at InvestorForce Securities and Altvest in Wayne, Pa. From 1995-2002, he served in a number of roles at the Philadelphia Brokerage Corporation. He was an equity trader, vice president for corporate finance, principal, and chief operating officer before he was named president in 2000. He also served as managing director of One Maverick Corporation.

"Jim Dunn is a talented and skillful investment manager, with a reputation for integrity and a deep understanding of the complex world of investment management," Hatch said. "We are privileged to have him coming to Wake Forest, and I look forward to working closely with him. His broad experience and proven abilities will be deeply valued here."

Dunn earned a bachelor of science in finance at Villanova University in 1995.

Dunn has been a featured speaker on investment topics such as hedge funds and asset allocation for several professional organizations and has been quoted by many national media outlets regarding investment issues.

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Baker Communications 2005 Corporate Training Seminars Added to Findaseminar. com

Baker Communications 2005 Corporate Training Seminars Added to Findaseminar. com

Baker communications is the latest recognized training provider to add their 2004 and 2005 training classes to Findaseminar. com the training and seminar search engine

(PRWEB) December 8, 2004

Findaseminar. com and Baker Communications announce that 2005 Corporate training and sales seminars offered by Baker Communications will be listed on Findaseminar. com the training and seminar search engine.

Under the terms of the agreement Findaseminar. com will list Baker communications corporate and sales training classes and accept registrations from training seekers viz phone fax or online.

Baker Communications is the latest in a series of training providers who have added their 2004 and 2005 training seminars to Findaseminar. com in the past months. Other well known training providers who list their events on Findaseminar. com include National Seminars Group Skillpath American Management Association Cornell University ILR Council on Education Burke Institute Healthpro consulting Horizon learning C-trec and over 350 other training companies and seminar providers.

The total number of training classes and seminars currently listed on Findaseminar. com is 90,000 and growing daily.

Findaseminar. com is a one-stop training shop that provides pay-for-performance marketing services to training providers and offers training seekers the opportunity to shop and compare for thousands of training seminars of interest to them. Findaseminar. com also offers a free Training Information Management tool TIM that makes it easy for training seekers and training administrators to search track register and report on their training activities.

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Vision for Life Program Helps Thousands Naturally Improve Vision through Vision Therapy: Natural Vision Correction System Attains Phenomenal Success

Vision for Life Program Helps Thousands Naturally Improve Vision through Vision Therapy: Natural Vision Correction System Attains Phenomenal Success

Highlighted in publications such as MenÂ’s Health Magazine, Vision for Life has ignited an enthusiastic following of thousands of individuals on the path to better eyesight. A proven natural alternative to corrective lenses, the Vision for Life program boasts over a 90% success rate in reversing vision problems including nearsightedness, aging vision, astigmatism, and computer eyestrain.

(PRWEB) August 18, 2004

Vision for Life marks its third successful year of the breakthrough program Vision for Life: A 30-Day Program to Better Eyesight with continuing record sales. A proven natural alternative to eyeglasses, contacts, intacs, and even Lasik surgery, the Vision for Life program boasts over a 90% success rate in reversing vision problems including nearsightedness, aging vision, astigmatism, and computer eyestrain.

Highlighted in publications such as MenÂ’s Health Magazine, Vision for Life has ignited an enthusiastic following of thousands of individuals on the path to better eyesight. This scientifically-recognized program is unique in that it provides the most effective, cutting edge optical exercises and vision techniques for improving, maintaining, and preventing vision problems. Yes, prevention of eyesight deterioration is possible! Children and teens can use this program along with their parents to prevent vision problems associated with prolonged use of computers, television, and video games.

Orlin Sorensen, founder of Vision for Life and author of the program, wore corrective lenses for years beginning in his teens. Through the use of vision training, he improved his vision from 20/85 to 20/20 and was able to pass the visual acuity test given to U. S. Navy fighter pilots. Men’s Health declared this one of the “Greatest Comebacks of All Time.”

Another vision training success story is Capri Smith of Chesterfield, Virginia. She writes, “After just five days of doing the Vision for Life exercises for 25 minutes each day, the optometrist said that I had gone from myopia (nearsighted) level 8 in my left eye and 5 in the right to 5 and 2, respectively − half of my previous prescription!”

Vision for Life: A Program for Better Eyesight is available for single or bulk purchase on the Vision for Life website at www. rebuildyourvision. com and through exclusive resellers. Details about the program and scores of testimonials are published on the website.

About Vision for Life

Vision for Life, LLC, was founded in 2001 by Orlin G. Sorensen, a commercial airline pilot, to help people who suffer from poor and deteriorating eyesight to improve and maintain their vision. Vision for Life develops and promotes products for life improvement.

Contact Information:

Orlin Sorensen

Vision for Life

877-733-4543

Http://www. rebuildyourvision. com (http://www. rebuildyourvision. com)

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ConsumersÂ’ Research Council Of America Names Iatria Health Center Executives As AmericaÂ’s Top Chiropractors

ConsumersÂ’ Research Council Of America Names Iatria Health Center Executives As AmericaÂ’s Top Chiropractors

Dr. Angela Baylis and Dr. Jason Davidson, Doctors of Chiropractic at Iatria Health Center, were named as top American Chiropractors by ConsumersÂ’ Research Council of America, a research organization providing consumersÂ’ information guides for professional services throughout America, in recognition for their experience, training, and board certifications, as well as their involvement in professional associations.

Raleigh, NC (PRWEB) July 29, 2004

Dr. Angela Baylis and Dr. Jason Davidson, Doctors of Chiropractic at Iatria Health Center, were named as top American Chiropractors by ConsumersÂ’ Research Council of America, a research organization providing consumersÂ’ information guides for professional services throughout America, in recognition for their experience, training, and board certifications, as well as their involvement in professional associations. The health center executives will be listed in the organizationÂ’s publication, Guide to AmericaÂ’s Top Chiropractors.

ConsumersÂ’ Research Council of America is a Washington, DC based research organization providing consumersÂ’ information guides for professional services throughout America in order to educate and assist consumers in obtaining the finest professional services in categories including, Healthcare, Education, Legal, and more.

Dr. Angela Baylis, DC and Iatria Health Center offer a full service chiropractic and applied kinesiology health services under the supervision of qualified doctors who aid in a clientÂ’s total well being. Using a holistic approach, which addresses the whole person, not just the systems, Iatria Health Center provides comprehensive, personalized health care, along with superior service, in a relaxing and inviting atmosphere. For more information, call 919 861-8944 or on the Internet www. iatriahealthcenter. com. Iatria Health Center is associated with Iatria Day Spas, which specializes in such services as massage, facials, manicures, pedicures, body treatments, waxing, tinting, laser hair removal, facial plastic surgery, Intense Pulse Light Skin Rejuvenation, and spa day packages.

MMI Associates, Inc.

122 Ravenna Way, Suite 100

Cary, NC 27513

(919) 461-3831 • (919) 462-8289 (fax)

Patty@mmimarketing. com

Contact: Patty Briguglio (919) 461-3831

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AHIP Statement on Meaningful Use Regulations

AHIP Statement on Meaningful Use Regulations

Ignagni: “Broad adoption and meaningful use of health information technology by providers is essential to creating an efficient, high-performing 21st-century health care system.”

Washington, D. C. (Vocus) July 13, 2010

America’s Health Insurance Plans (AHIP) President and CEO Karen Ignagni today released the following statement on the new meaningful use regulations released by the Department of Health and Human Services:

“Health plans support the department's effort to advance greater adoption of electronic health records (EHR) through Medicare and Medicaid incentive programs. Broad adoption and meaningful use of health information technology by providers is essential to creating an efficient, high-performing 21st-century health care system.

“Health plans and providers share the responsibility of making the investments needed to enhance efficiency and improve health outcomes. Health plans are doing their part by rewarding clinicians for implementation of e-prescribing, using decision support tools to improve disease management, and participating in patient centered registries that help ensure patients get the care they need. Many health plans also offer incentive programs that reward providers for achieving quality goals, which involve the meaningful use of health information technology.

“In addition to improving clinical services, health information technology should be used by providers to simplify administrative processes and reduce paperwork by communicating electronically with health plans. Our community has taken steps to make it easier for clinicians to submit claims electronically and receive payment quickly. For example, using common portals, health plans are working with clinicians in New Jersey and Ohio to simplify administrative processes, thus enabling doctors in these states to spend more time with their patients.

“Health plans look forward to working with the Department to further develop innovative initiatives and incentive programs to fully leverage the power of health information technology.” The following examples illustrate some of the many ways that health plans are putting this into practice:

Online Tools to Promote Evidence-Based Care
 Aetna is providing incentives for a Philadelphia-area cardiology group to use the CareEngine® system. The system compares data in members’ personal health records (e. g., tests, medical procedures, medications, over-the-counter treatments, herbal supplements) to nationally recognized medical best practices. When the CareEngine identifies an opportunity to improve patient care, it issues an e-mail alert (called a Care Consideration) to the member, and, in some cases, to the member’s physician.

Electronic Health Records and e-Prescribing

 CIGNA has enabled e-prescribing and e-visits through connectivity with SureScripts/RxHub and Relay Health. In addition, CIGNA encourages physician adoption of EHRs by recognizing physicians who are certified by the National Committee for Quality Assurance’s (NCQA’s) Physician Practice Connections (PPC). Such certification requires use of EHRs to engage in e-prescribing, track abnormal test results, and offer secure e-mail communication with patients. The health plan recognizes physicians who have received such certification by giving them a special designation in CIGNA’s physician directory and by including them in its high-performance physician network.

 Highmark’s QualityBLUE pay-for-performance program aligns incentives to improvements in quality measures. As part of the program, the health plan encourages primary care physicians to implement EHRs.

Highmark also promotes the adoption of e-prescribing through its $29 million Health Information Technology Grant program. Through the program, the health plan has provided nearly 650 practices with more than $5.3 million to assist with health IT initiatives such as e-prescribing.

 Kaiser Permanente HealthConnect includes a suite of applications to improve the care process for members and physicians. A central feature of the system is its ability to link members’ electronic medical records with their appointments, registration and billing information. KP HealthConnect provides physicians instant access to patients’ medical histories and preferences, and it provides online decision support tools to help doctors determine which treatments and procedures are most effective. The system allows doctors to show patients relevant parts of their medical records during visits, and at the end of each appointment, doctors can print out “after-visit summaries’ to help patients remember the key issues discussed. Doctors can use KP HealthConnect to send prescriptions to pharmacies electronically, and they can order lab tests online.

 UnitedHealthcare’s CareTracker EHR offers a low-cost alternative to traditional client/server based EHRs. Physicians can access the CareTracker EHR through a secure Web interface, which connects their practices to a network of labs, partner physicians and hospitals. CareTracker has built-in monitoring capabilities to track physician compliance with pay-for-performance standards, enabling physicians to be rewarded for their performance without any additional administrative overhead.

 WellPoint has committed to supporting health IT by incorporating components of the meaningful use standards into its ongoing programs, such as e-prescribing, hospital and physician pay-for-performance, and clinical connectivity initiatives with partners such as Availity.

Medical Home Initiatives

 A number of health plans – including Aetna, CIGNA, Group Health Cooperative, Independent Health, and Geisinger Health Plan – are providing extensive support to primary care physician practices to support Medical Home initiatives. These programs use electronic health records to transform medical practice through strategies such as using electronic registries to track use of preventive care services for patients with chronic conditions. In addition, Medical Home initiatives recognize and reward physicians for reaching specified benchmarks for quality improvement and health outcomes.

America’s Health Insurance Plans – Providing Health Benefits to More Than 200 Million Americans 

Contact:
Robert Zirkelbach
202-778-8493

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Increasing Alliance Activity evident in the Pharmaceutical Industry

Increasing Alliance Activity evident in the Pharmaceutical Industry

Research and Markets have announced the addition of the 'Pharmaceutical Alliances, Licensing and Deal-Making' report to their offering.

(PRWEB) November 15, 2003

Pharmaceutical companies derived an average 20% of their total sales from in-licensed products in 2002. Across the industry, top drugs from the last decade are coming off patent -- and forcing pharmaceutical companies to inject new life into development pipelines.

The pharmaceutical industry has seen alliance activity -- including co-promotion, licensing, co-development and joint ventures -- grow each year since 1997. This new study, Pharmaceutical Alliances, Licensing and Deal-Making, explores the strategies and tactics top companies implement to win blockbuster deals and advance their development pipelines to compete for years to come.

Pharmaceutical Alliances, Licensing and Deal-Making features qualitative and quantitative findings from 12 top pharmaceutical companies, including seven of the top-10 industry leaders. The report addresses the following tough issues:

Allocating Resources: Pharmaceutical alliance managers and business development teams balance budgets and staffing to identify potential opportunities, hand off deals to operating teams and monitor the partnerships' ongoing health.

Structuring Business Development: Structuring the business development function challenges many companies. Learn how some BD&L groups specialize around opportunity evaluation, deal negotiation and alliance management -- while others appoint one point-person or an alliance's complete lifecycle.

Promoting Expert Reputation: To consistently win deals, companies demonstrate both commercialization capabilities and alliance management success. Learn how top companies promote their successes and build reputations as desirable partners.

For a complete index of this report click on http://www. researchandmarkets. com/reports/40088 (http://www. researchandmarkets. com/reports/40088)

About Research and Markets Ltd.

Research and Markets Ltd. are Europe's largest resource for market research. R&M distribute thousands of major research publications from the world's leading publishers, consultants and market analysts. R&M provide you with the latest forecasts on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest market trends.

For additional information on ResearchandMarkets. com, their range of reports or their value-added services, visit their web site at http://www. researchandmarkets. com (http://www. researchandmarkets. com) or mailto:press@researchandmarkets. com

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Remote Monitoring Technologies Could Shave Health Care Costs by $197 Billion; Broadband-based Applications Can Improve Care for Chronic Disease

Remote Monitoring Technologies Could Shave Health Care Costs by $197 Billion; Broadband-based Applications Can Improve Care for Chronic Disease

The United States could cut $197 billion from its health care bill over the next 25 years by widespread use of remote monitoring to track the vital signs of patients with chronic diseases such as congestive heart failure and diabetes, according to a new study released today by economist Robert Litan. Better Health Care Together said Litan's study illustrated how new directions in health care can enable the United States to deliver quality care at lower costs.

Washington, DC (PRWEB) October 29, 2008

The United States could cut $197 billion from its health care bill over the next 25 years by widespread use of remote monitoring to track the vital signs of patients with chronic diseases such as congestive heart failure and diabetes, according to a new study released today by economist Robert Litan. Litan said that savings would be maximized by public policy adjustments that encourage health care institutions and individual caregivers to accelerate the use of remote monitoring.

"Remote monitoring can spot health problems sooner, reduce hospitalization, improve life quality and save money," Litan said at a health care forum sponsored by Better Health Care Together.

But he warned that adoption of remote monitoring and other telemedicine opportunities will be slowed and benefits reduced unless the United States does a better job of reimbursing health care organizations for remote care and encouraging continued investment in broadband infrastructure that can be tailored to meet the privacy, security, and reliability requirements for telemedicine applications.

Failure to make the right policy adjustments will cut estimated health care savings by almost $44 billion over the 25-year period, Litan estimated.

Estimated Gain from Telemonitoring Under Baseline and Policy Cases:
Net Present Value of Savings, Baseline Case: $153.2 billion Net Present Value of Savings, Policy Case: $197.0 billion Gain From Policy Implementation: $43.8 billion Average Gain From Implementation Per Year: $1.75 billion

"Hospitals and doctors can't provide services unless they get paid. We need insurance reimbursement policies, beginning with Medicare and Medicaid, that cover remote monitoring," Litan said. "We also need policies that deliver broadband, including "smart networks" that ensure that patients' critical data is secure and that communications are not disrupted."

Better Health Care Together Says Study Shows Need for New Directions

Jody Hoffman, Executive Director of Better Health Care Together said Litan's study illustrated how new directions in health care can enable the United States to deliver quality care at lower costs.

"Our first priority is to make sure every American has quality, affordable health coverage," Hoffman said. "In order to do that we also need to get better value for our health care dollars and we believe information technologies can help in a big way."

Hoffman said that the forum was an opportunity to consider some of the key issues surrounding telemedicine.

Big Savings from Chronic Diseases

Remote monitoring enables caregivers, often working through computerized data centers, to be alerted in real-time, seven days a week of vital sign changes that could be medically significant. The alerts enable earlier intervention to help patients before they are seriously ill. Without remote monitoring, caregivers must depend on notification from patients who may not report changes until physical symptoms are dramatic and more challenging to resolve.

Litan's savings estimates are tied to four specific conditions - congestive heart failure, diabetes, chronic obstruction pulmonary disease, and chronic skin ulcers and wounds.

Estimated Savings and Gain from Policy Implementation, by Condition:

Baseline Savings:
Heart Patients - $79.7 billion
Diabetes Patients - $42.3 billion
COPD Patients - $18.7 billion
Chronic Wound Patients - $12.5 billion
Total Baseline Savings - $153.2 billion

Policy Savings Savings:
Heart Patients - $102.5 billion
Diabetes Patients - $54.4 billion
COPD Patients - $24.1 billion
Chronic Wound Patients - $16.0 billion
Total Policy Savings - $197 billion

Gain from Policy Change:
Heart Patients - $22.8 billion
Diabetes Patients - $12.1 billion
COPD Patients - $5.4 billion
Chronic Wound Patients - $3.5 billion
Total Gain from Policy Change - $43.8 billion

Robert Litan is vice president of Research and Policy at the Kauffman Foundation, and a Senior Fellow in the Economic Studies Program at the Brookings Institution. Litan, who holds a law degree in addition to his PhD in economics, has served on the staff of the Council of Economic Advisers (1977-79), as Deputy Assistant Attorney General in the Antitrust Division of the Justice Department (1993-95), and Associate Director of the Office and Management and Budget (1995-96).

Better Health Care Together is a coalition of business, labor and public policy organizations that believe broad-based health care reform is among the most pressing economic and moral imperatives facing the United States.

The study "Vital Signs Via Broadband: Remote Health Monitoring Transmits Savings, Enhances Lives," is available at http://betterhealthcaretogether. org/news (http://betterhealthcaretogether. org/news).

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First Ever Rising Mango Star Soars to the Top

First Ever Rising Mango Star Soars to the Top

National Mango Board Names Dean Sturt Winner After Mango Cook-Off in New York City.

Orlando, Fla. (PRWEB) August 22, 2008

The National Mango Board is proud to announce Dean Sturt, of Rowlett, TX, as the winner in their first ever Rising Mango Star (http://mango. org/risingstar/) video contest. Dean stood out amongst other aspiring chefs with his unique video and stellar dish, Mangolicious Flip Flop Cake.

However, the road to mango victory wasn't easy. Dean had to battle it out against two other Rising Mango Star contest finalists, Dylan Beiersdorf and Catherine Ralston, in a final judging cook-off at The Institute of Culinary Education in New York City. The trio also had a judging panel of reputable food experts to wow, including Simply Delicioso star Ingrid Hoffman, Chef Allen "The Mango Man" Susser, and Regina Ragone, food director of Family Circle magazine. After much tasting, questioning and deliberation, the judging panel chose Dean for his creativity, presentation and exquisite use of mango.

"It was great to spend time with all of the finalists and see them share the same enthusiasm for cooking as I do," said Latin food and entertaining expert, Ingrid Hoffmann (http://mango. org/media/ingrid-hoffmann. php). "All of the dishes were incredible and I was blown away by Dean's mango recipe, it was so original and the taste was a mango lover's dream!"

The grand prize for Dean was an opportunity to appear with Ingrid Hoffmann in the September issue of television's video magazine Health & Home Report.

"I was really excited to cook with Ingrid--I had so much fun! She knows so much about cooking, especially about cooking with mangos," said Rising Mango Star (http://mango. org/risingstar/) winner, Dean Sturt. "She gave me lots of good ideas so I can keep cooking with my favorite fruit."

Dean is no newbie to the kitchen, in fact he's been cooking since he was three years old. His mom used to hear him scooting the kitchen chair up to the counter to make "soup," a pan filled with water and spices. Since then, Dean has been cooking non-stop and wants to someday make it his career.

His recipe was inspired by his mom and his favorite part of any meal--dessert! Dean wanted to create a recipe to appeal to those with the same love for sweets. Dean's Mangolicious Flip Flop Cake recipe is a moist cake made with fresh pureed mangos. The cake resembles a traditional upside down cake, but instead has a beautiful design of scrumptious mangos on the plate. A real work of art!

"We are truly pleased with the outcome of our first ever Rising Mango Star recipe and video contest. We're incredibly proud of Dean's and the other finalists' hard work and mango enthusiasm," said Wendy McManus, director of marketing for the National Mango Board. "We can't wait to see what our contestants come up with next year!"

Visit mango. org/risingstar (http://mango. org/risingstar/) to view Dean's winning recipe and video!

For more information concerning entries by children under the age of 13, see our Notice to Parent and Legal Guardian regarding the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act ("COPPA") Policy at mango. org/risingstar (http://mango. org/risingstar/) .

About National Mango Board (http://mango. org/)
The National Mango Board is a national promotion and research organization, which is supported by assessments from both domestic and imported mangos. The board was designed to drive awareness and consumption of fresh mangos in the U. S. Mangos are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, a good source of fiber and an amazing source of tropical flavor.

Mango consumption per capita has quadrupled since 1990 to an estimated 2.2 pounds per year in 2007. Mango import volume for 2007 was 661 million pounds, 3 percent more than 2006 and 15 percent more than 2005. According to Consumer Research commissioned by the National Mango Board, 35% of U. S. customers purchased mangos within the past 6 months.

Learn more at mango. org (http://mango. org/).

About Ingrid Hoffmann (http://mango. org/media/ingrid-hoffmann. php)
Growing up in her mother's kitchen, who is a Cordon Bleu chef, Ingrid discovered her passion for food and entertaining, developing dishes with a Latin twist. Hoffmann is the host of Food Network's Simply Delicioso as well as the hit series, Delicioso on the Spanish-language network, Galavision/Univision, which is currently in its fourth season. More of Hoffmann's cooking and entertaining ideas are included in her debut cookbook, SIMPLY DELICIOSO: A Collection of Everyday Recipes with a Latin Twist, which was released in February 2008.

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David Gibbons "In Discussion" Broadcasts Special Program with Actor Michael York OBE on VoiceAmerica Talk Radio Network

David Gibbons "In Discussion" Broadcasts Special Program with Actor Michael York OBE on VoiceAmerica Talk Radio Network

Celebrated Actor Michael York OBE to join David Gibbons on his program "In Discussion" on Wednesday December 30 at 3.00pm Pacific Time on the VoiceAmerica Business Channel.

Phoenix, AZ (PRWEB) December 28, 2009

Internet Pioneer and leading internet Talk Radio Icon http://www. voiceamerica. com (http://www. voiceamerica. com) announced that Michael York OBE will join David Gibbons on his program "In Discussion" on Wednesday December 30th @ 3:00 pm PT on http://www. voicamericabusiness. com (http://www. voicamericabusiness. com)

Michael York has enjoyed a successful career for over 45 years, creating an impressive body of work on stage, screen and in the recording studio.

A member of Britain's National Youth Theatre and a graduate of Oxford University, he joined the National Theatre company and made his film debut in "The Taming of the Shrew".

York's more than 60 other screen credits include "Romeo and Juliet", "Cabaret", "Something for Everyone", "Jesus of Nazareth", "The Three Musketeers", "Logan's Run", "The Island of Doctor Moreau", "Murder on the Orient Express", "Conduct Unbecoming" and "Fedora". He played in all three "Austin Powers" movies, the two "Omega Code" films and recently completed "The Justice of Wolves" and "The Mill and the Cross".

Television work includes "The Forsyte Saga", "Great Expectations", "Space", "The Far Country," "The Heat of the Day", "The Lot" and "Curb Your Enthusiasm". He was recently a guest on "The Simpsons" and "Law and Order: Criminal Intent". He has just completed "The Four Seasons." Among his Broadway credits are "Someone Who'll Watch Over Me", "Bent", "The Little Prince", "The Crucible", "Ring Round the Moon" and the world premiere of Tennessee Williams' "Outcry". In 2007 he was King Arthur in a US tour of "Camelot".

York has narrated many documentaries and over 90 audio books for which, among other awards, he has been Grammy-nominated. He recorded the Tennyson/Strauss "Enoch Arden" and performed it internationally in concert, most recently with the Long Beach Opera and in Prague. He has just finished recording the entire Bible.

As well as presenting Shakespeare with music at the Kennedy Center and the Hollywood Bowl, he has performed concert versions of "Henry V", "Christopher Columbus", "Peer Gynt", Mozart's "The Abduction from the Seraglio", "Amadeus", in which he played Salieri, and "Egmont". York's autobiography, "Accidentally on Purpose", was followed by "A Shakespearean Actor Prepares" and "Dispatches from Armageddon". His most recent book is "Are My Blinkers Showing: Adventures in Filmmaking in the New Russia".

Chairman of the California Youth Theatre, he has been awarded Britain's OBE, France's Arts et Lettres, and a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Michael York will receive the 2009 Mary Pickford Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Entertainment Industry at this year's International Press Academy14th Annual Satellite AwardsTM on Sunday, December 20, 2009 in Los Angeles, CA.

Past recipients of the International Press Academy's Mary Pickford Award for Outstanding Artistic Contribution to the Entertainment Industry include: Louis Gossett, Jr., Kathy Bates, Martin Landau, Gena Rowlands, Susan Sarandon, Arnon Milchan, Robert Evans, Karl Malden, Francis Ford Coppola, Maximilian Schell, Alan J. Pakula, Jodie Foster, and Rod Steiger. Michael York will be the fourteenth recipient of the Mary Pickford Award.

"In Discussion" airs daily at 3:00 pm Pacific/5:00 pm Central/06:00 pm Eastern on the Voice America Business channel. To access the show, log on at http://www. voiceamericabusiness. com (http://www. voiceamericabusiness. com).

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)voiceamerica(dot)com.

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

About VoiceAmerica / Modavox:
Since 1999, the VoiceAmerica Talk Radio Network has been streaming live Internet talk radio programs, featuring more than 300 hosts broadcasting on seven genre-based channels: its flagship VoiceAmerica™ Variety Channel, VoiceAmerica™ Health & Wellness Channel, VoiceAmerica™ Business Channel, VoiceAmerica Sports, 7th Wave Network, The Green Talk Network and Power Up Motorsports Channel. VoiceAmerica™ is the single largest producer of original Internet talk radio programming in the world. (http://voiceamerica. com (http://voiceamerica. com)).

(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 VoiceAmerica™ Network (http://www. voiceamerica. com (http://www. voiceamerica. 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.

Modavox provides complete production, delivery, and on-demand archive delivery for VoiceAmerica hosts. At the center of this offering is Modavox's patented BoomBox™ technology that provides show hosts with instant broadcasting capabilities from their own websites and with instant syndication through affiliate sites. In addition, Modavox assists in the creation of sponsorship, advertising and advanced distribution models for VoiceAmerica programming.

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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Lean Manufacturing for Greater Efficiencies

Lean Manufacturing for Greater Efficiencies

MACSEA Ltd. highlighted the application of its Predictive Analytics in the field of maintenance, thus bringing advanced forward gazing technologies targeting improved operating efficiencies and directly reduce manufacturing costs.

Stonington, CT (PRWEB) December 5, 2005

MACSEA Ltd is a global provider of diagnostic and predictive CBM software. Recently, MACSEA highlighted the application of its Predictive Analytics in the field of maintenance, thus bringing advanced forward gazing technologies targeting improved operating efficiencies and directly reduce manufacturing costs.

Predictive Analytics is the branch of data mining concerned with the prediction of future probabilities and trends. Previously used extensively in economics and marketing, MACSEA is now applying it to the industrial manufacturing environment, with its monitoring and diagnostic software, DEXTER.

DEXTER is sophisticated software that automates the process of monitoring, diagnosing, and predicting machinery health for any equipment. Data management and analysis occur continuously around the clock, alerting operators only when problems are detected, either at that point in time or predicted in the future. The benefits in terms of savings in maintenance costs and reduced breakdowns are clear to any company.

“DEXTER’s Predictive Analytics helps Plant and Maintenance Managers leverage real-time equipment data,” stated Martin French, VP of Marketing for MACSEA. “It generates effective actions by drawing reliable and solid conclusions about current conditions and future events.”

There are very immediate business benefits to diagnosing and predicting equipment health that goes beyond just identifying a problem as it arises. DEXTER allows organizations to streamline their operations by analyzing in real-time, exactly how a specific piece of equipment is performing and predicting future trends and performance. This gives managers the ability to fine-tune plant operations at every stage.

To create an accurate predictive model, DEXTER continuously collects data and then builds a statistical model. Predictions are made together with their related probability of occurrence. To increase precision and validity, the model is constantly revised as additional data becomes available.

Today’s manufacturing companies are constantly striving to increase efficiencies, reduce wasted effort, and maximize production. This is at the heart of Lean Manufacturing. DEXTER becomes an active partner in making this business strategy a reality.

The technology can be seen in action by visiting MACSEA’s website www. macsea. com and downloading a demo. The demo allows a client computer to read real-time simulated engine data from a server via the Internet.

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Promotional Products Company Selected as National Preferred Vendor for American Cancer Society

Promotional Products Company Selected as National Preferred Vendor for American Cancer Society

The Icebox Raises over $10K in Local Relay for Life Event

Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) May 29, 2008

The Icebox, an Atlanta-based promotional products and corporate apparel supplier (http://www. iceboxonline. com/?utm_source=prweb&utm_medium=onlinepr&utm_campaign=May292008), was recently named a National Preferred Vendor for the American Cancer Society (ACS). As a preferred vendor, The Icebox will provide promotional products for ACS Relay For Life events nationwide.

"Relay For Life is the world's largest grassroots fundraising event, and we are very excited to bring our relationship with the American Cancer Society to the next level. They are a great organization with great people all working together to help spread awareness of cancer prevention and fund research for treatment and cures," says Jordy Gamson, President and CEO of The Icebox.

As part of their continuing support of the ACS, The Icebox's philanthropic arm, Common Threads (http://www. iceboxonline. com/default. aspx? ID=75/?utm_source=prweb&utm_medium=onlinepr&utm_campaign=May292008), dedicated to assisting non-profit organizations with their fundraising events, recently participated in a local Relay For Life event. On April 11, 2008, Team Icebox gathered at Oglethorpe University in Atlanta to participate in the annual fun-filled event designed to celebrate survivorship and raise money for research and other programs for the American Cancer Society. The Icebox team raised over $10,000 of the event's final $200,000.

About The Icebox
The Icebox is a full-service, one-stop shop for branded apparel and promotional products. Their capabilities include creative services, garment sourcing, garment and product decoration, and fulfillment programs. In addition to its unique line of promotional products and clothing, The Icebox also offers a line of eco-friendly apparel (http://www. iceboxonline. com/default. aspx? ID=75/?utm_source=prweb&utm_medium=onlinepr&utm_campaign=May292008) for environmentally conscious clients. For more information, visit www. iceboxonline. com.

About the American Cancer Society
The American Cancer Society is the nationwide, community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer through research, education, advocacy and service. Locally organized "Relay For Life" events take place across the nation on behalf of the American Cancer Society, with more than three million Americans participating annually. The first Relay For Life event was held in Tacoma, Washington in 1986, inspired by the example of surgeon Dr. Gordy Klatt, who in 1985 walked and ran a track for 24 hours as a way to raise money to fight cancer. For more information visit www. cancer. org or www. RelayForLife. org.

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Mass. Company's Advanced Diesel Filters To Cut Pollution at Bronx Public Works Project

Mass. Company's Advanced Diesel Filters To Cut Pollution at Bronx Public Works Project

Rypos Inc. developed the advanced filters for wide use that includes large earth moving equipment, stationary generators, locomotives, mining equipment and marine engines. The filters, developed by the Holliston, Massachusetts company, to automatically clean themselves or regenerate and do not depend on engine heat to burn off accumulated soot. They will be used during construction of the $1 billion Croton Water Treatment Plant in the Bronx.

New York, NY (PRWEB) March 14, 2006

Rypos Inc. has been selected to install its newly developed active diesel particulate filters on heavy-duty construction vehicles operating at the $1 billion Croton Water Treatment Plant in The Bronx, NY. Rypos’ advanced technology enables the filters to automatically clean themselves or regenerate irrespective of engine temperatures.

“Rypos Active Diesel Particulate Filters (Rypos ADPF/C™) will be installed in March on three Terex TR-70 earthmoving trucks,” according to Glenn P. Goldstein of Emisstar LLC, whose mobile emissions consulting firm is charged with reducing air pollution at the 12-acre public works project. The trucks have a 72-ton payload and are powered by 700 horsepower, V-12 diesel engines.

The advanced filter technology removes up to 90 percent of the soot and gases emanating from diesel engines and automatically clean themselves or regenerate without needing high exhaust gas temperatures or human intervention. This makes them ideal for construction vehicles that run at intermittent duty cycles or in remote environments and fail to sustain temperatures that are hot enough to passively burn off accumulated soot from their exhaust filters. The Rypos filters eliminate routine filter servicing and maintenance costs as well.

Says Goldstein, “Rypos was selected for the Croton project based upon its ability to achieve or exceed ‘Best Available Technology’ in low exhaust temperature applications, experience with high horsepower engines, intelligent design and capacity to regenerate self-sufficiently.” Emisstar’s principals have implemented some of the most advanced mobile emissions-reduction initiatives in New York and throughout the Northeast, including the 7 World Trade Center Project, New York Harbor Private Ferries Emission Reduction Project, and NY Department of Sanitation and Waste Management projects.

Unlike filters that depend on engine heat to regenerate, Rypos filters automatically regenerate using electrical current. The Rypos ADPF/C™, combines banks of sintered metal filter elements that resemble compressed steel wool and are conductive with a diesel oxidation catalyst. When the filters need regeneration, pressure sensors signal the microprocessor-controlled system to automatically send current through the metal fibers to heat them and burn off accumulated particles – much like a self-cleaning oven. The trucks’ 24-Volt battery bank provides power.

The Rypos ADPF/C™ reduces particulate matter by up to 90 percent, while cutting carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon emissions as well and is designed for newer engines using low sulfur diesel fuel.

Another product, the Rypos ADPF™ is designed for older diesel engines operating on high-sulfur fuel. This product achieves total particulate matter reduction exceeding 60 percent and is suited for areas where low sulfur fuel is unavailable. This technology has received California Air Resources Board (CARB) Verification for stationary diesel engines powering standby generators. The Rypos filter well exceeded CARB’s Level-2 emission standard of 50-percent particulate matter reduction during testing.

Headquartered in Holliston, MA, Rypos (www. rypos. com) developed these two active diesel emission filter product lines to serve the retrofit and OEM markets and engines ranging from 100 kW to 2 MW.

In addition to construction vehicles, Rypos’ US and international markets include marine applications, railroads, mining and primary and standby power generation. “Demand for clean diesel power is fueled by US-EPA and California state regulations, voluntary incentives to make existing and new diesel engines run cleaner and global industrialization,” says Klaus Peter, Rypos president and CEO.

The Croton Water Treatment Plant will treat 290-million-gallons-per-day from the Croton Reservoir. The Croton System normally provides 10 percent of New York’s water and up to 30 percent during droughts. The facility will be built beneath the Van Cortlandt Park over seven years. Two water tunnels will connect to the plant.

Emisstar LLC, with offices in New York, Texas, and New Hampshire, is a consulting practice focused on the scientific, technology, policy, business and public health challenges surrounding mobile air emissions. Our in-depth knowledge of local, regional and national clean air markets, strong track record of working with government and industry, and exceptional technical expertise are the assets we provide to our clients. Services include: strategic market analysis; technical guidance; fleet inventory, analysis, and cost-effective emissions reduction assessment; technology deployment and project implementation; and policy guidance. Emisstar also works to accelerate the emergence of advanced vehicle technologies in the marketplace and assists clients in effectively navigating regulatory labyrinths.

Contact: Glenn P. Goldstein, 631-363-3730. Emisstar LLC, 982 Montauk Highway, Bayport, NY 11705

RYPOS, Inc. (www. rypos. com), based in Holliston, MA, is a developer, manufacturer and marketer of advanced, self-regenerating filters for diesel engines. Products include the Rypos ADPF™ (meets CARB Level-2 emission standards) and Rypos ADPF/C™. Rypos serves the retrofit and OEM markets. Applications include off-road vehicles, standby and primary power generators, mining and heavy-duty construction equipment, locomotives and both commercial and Navy vessels.

Contact: Frank DePetrillo 508-429-4552. RYPOS, Inc. (www. rypos. com)

260 Hopping Brook Road, Holliston, MA 01746-1455.

Editorial Contact: Dick Pirozzolo, 781-235-9911, Cell 617-5954613

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Weight Loss Seminar for Plump Pets

Weight Loss Seminar for Plump Pets

Tomy Maugeri Dog Salons will be hosting a free seminar for parents of overweight dogs at their Upper Westside Salon located at 66 West 84th Street on Saturday, April 9th, at 5:00 pm.

New York, NY (PRWEB) March 16, 2005

Tomy Maugeri Dog Salons will be hosting a free seminar for parents of overweight dogs at their Upper Westside Salon located at 66 West 84th Street on Saturday, April 9th, at 5:00 pm.

At last count, nearly two out of three (64.5%) Americans were classified as overweight or obese. With this number climbing upward at an alarming rate, itÂ’s no wonder that a recent survey indicated that 40% of AmericaÂ’s dog population is also overweight. Dogs and cats are affected by the same eating and physical activity habits of their owners.

Conducting the seminar will be Sue Nastasi, New York CityÂ’s premier dog trainer, and a top animal nutritionist, Jan Koster. Sue and Jan will be giving pet parentÂ’s tools and methods needed to maintain a healthy eating and exercise program.

Often, weight gain is caused by well-meaning pet lovers who tend to give more treats than is healthy, or think that a couch potato pet is a happy and contented animal. The first step in your companionÂ’s new, healthy weight achievement plan should be a full physical at your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health problems including hypothyroidism and CushingÂ’s disease that could be causing weight gain.

Maintaining your petÂ’s proper weight is an essential part of keeping potential health problems at bay. Obesity can affect every major part of their body and can lead to severe cardiovascular problems as well. An overweight pet has added stress on their joints, bones and muscles. Joints can deteriorate faster resulting in Osteoarthritis in younger dogs. Hip dysplasia and other degenerative joint diseases can be directly linked to weight problems. If your four-legged family member is overweight, he or she is in danger of suffering arrhythmia and heart failure. And, most important, a well-rounded regimen of exercise and proper nutrition will add years to their life!

“This seminar is part of our comprehensive array of pet services. We don’t just provide great grooming. Many of our clients have told us they need pet daycare everyday or when they are on vacation. We work with the best walkers in the city and can refer our clients to them for daycare and can help provide daily shuttle van pick-up if needed,” says salon owner Tomy Maugeri. “Overcrowded kennels, marketed as doggy gyms or daycare camps, can be unsafe and can pose a health hazard.” Our “Home Stay Program” allows client’s pets to stay at one of our employee’s homes while they are on vacation. We have also started a full range of dog training programs using some of the city’s best trainers. For our customers who have experienced the death of a family pet, we are able to recommend a good bereavement counselor to help them deal with their loss.

“We have become a community center for pets,” says Katherine Thompson, Senior Groomer at Tomy Maugeri’s Upper Eastside Salon.

Www. tomydog. com

Contact: Pete OÂ’Neil - Marketing Director

Tomy Maugeri Dog Salons 212-861-6700

888-TOMY-DOG / peteoneil@yahoo. com

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Press Release - Burris Computer Forms® Named a Small Business of the Year

Press Release - Burris Computer Forms® Named a Small Business of the Year

Burris Computer Forms® named a Small Business of the Year by Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Roanoke, VA (PRWEB) October 20, 2009

Burris Computer Forms® was named Small Business of the Year - Wholesale/Retail by the Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce at its 23rd annual awards dinner Thursday night, October 1, 2009 at The Hotel Roanoke and Conference Center.

Burris Computer Forms was founded in 1992 and is based in Roanoke, Virginia. It provides business and computer forms to businesses, colleges and universities, government and non-profit organizations across the U. S. and internationally. In addition to being a wholesaler and retailer, it manufactures many of its products at its facility in Salem, Virginia, and provides its products through dealers, and directly to end users. Its product lines include its Four-of-a-Kind Postcards TM, Jumbo Print-on-Demand Postcards TM, Peel Out! Shipping Label SheetsTM, Create-n-Hang Door Hangers TM, W2's and 1099's, and other forms for inkjet and laser printers and copiers. It also provides free software templates for many of its products for Microsoft Word and Publisher on its website at www. pcforms. com.

Jerry Guzi, owner and president of Burris Computer Forms issued this statement: "Congratulations to my co-workers John Amburn, Diane Emery, Donald "Mac" McClure, Jr. (and his wife, our adopted co-worker and birthday-cake baker, Carol), Raki Wright, Amanda Bishop, Mitch Grimm, John Ashe and Mitch Jones for their talent, preparation, work ethic, and results that led to the achievement of this award.

"A special thanks also due to our customers, our business partners/suppliers, and to those other individuals who along the way brought their talents and gifts to our company (including my son, Rev. Matt Guzi, who was there at the very beginning (1992), and made the trip from Charlotte for the awards dinner, assisted by the shameless offer/bribe of playing golf Friday).

"Thanks to the event sponsors Cox Business, First Citizens Bank, Gentry Locke Rakes and Moore, Verizon Wireless, Sir Speedy, County of Roanoke, City of Roanoke, B. W. Wilson, and The Blue Ridge Business Journal and those at Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce and The Small Business Development Center for their work in sponsoring, judging, and hosting the event, and to David Foster of BB&T Bank for nominating us.
"I am especially grateful to Bill Tucker and Bill Jennings for their invaluable, supportive advice and friendship over the years.

"Congratulations to the other 108 nominees, and the other award winners. Small business advocate - Lynda McNutt Foster, director of Fast Training; Construction/real estate - Hughes Associates Architects; Manufacturing - M&W Fire Apparatus; Micro-business - Anstey Hodge Advertising; Technology - Interactive Achievement; Business-to-business services - The Renick Group; Business-to-consumer services (and overall Small Business of the Year winner) - Home Instead Senior Care; Legacy Award - Blue Ridge Beverage Co.; Not-for-profit arts and culture - The Taubman Museum of Art; Not-for-profit health and human services - Rescue Mission Ministries.

"Terrific company for us to keep."

Burris Computer Forms is a registered trademark of Jerry Guzi & Company.

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SurePayroll Main Street Insights Survey: Many Small Business Owners Not Hurt By Bad Economy

SurePayroll Main Street Insights Survey: Many Small Business Owners Not Hurt By Bad Economy

Survey shows that four out of ten small business owners say the down economy has not negatively impacted their businesses

Glenview, IL (PRWEB) January 5, 2009

A survey conducted this month by online payroll service SurePayroll (http://www. surepayroll. com/) has found that nearly 4 out of 10 small business owners have not seen their business negatively impacted by the down economy, and an additional 4% indicated that their businesses are actually doing better.

Of those who said their businesses were negatively impacted by the economy, nearly 9 out of 10 cited declining revenues as the main effect. However, of that group, 7 out of 10 cited a "small drop in revenues" while only 3 out of 10 indicated a "significant drop in revenues."

"Main Street is doing better than most people think," notes Michael Alter, President of SurePayroll. "While it's true that many small businesses are struggling, there is still a healthy contingent of small business owners who are holding their own in this difficult economy, and many who are managing to grow their businesses even in these tough times."

-- Free Market Is Working Just Fine for Small Business --

Unlike their large-company counterparts, many small businesses are doing well without any need for government bailout.

The survey suggests that small business owners are generally not in favor of government bailouts. 67% of respondents do not believe the government should bail out the automotive industry in Detroit.

On average, small businesses are in fact hiring in this down economy. SurePayroll's Small Business Scorecard, a set of economic indicators that tracks small business hiring trends, reported that in November, small businesses across the country managed to increase their staff levels by 0.26%. Year-to-date, small business hiring is up 3.3% nationwide.

"You're not seeing the large scale layoffs that you see in larger companies," says Alter. "Small businesses tend to run lean and mean relative to their large company counterparts. There isn't usually much fat to cut, and new hires are added only when business levels justify the expense."

With no bailout options for small businesses, many business owners are cutting costs to keep from running in the red. More than half of survey respondents indicated that they will be cutting back expenses in 2009, with sales/marketing and human resources being mentioned as the top areas for cuts.

These planned cuts are based on a widespread belief among entrepreneurs that the current recession may last longer than most people anticipate. 44% of respondents think the recession will be over by the end of 2009, but the majority (56%) say they think the economy will not turn around until after 2010. Only 56% of respondents indicate that they are currently optimistic about the small business economy.

Alter believes the government's current focus on bailing out large companies is misguided. He advocates that government instead provide incentive for small business owners.

"Despite our national obsession with the large stock exchange indices, the true driver of American GDP growth has always been small business, which manages to drive economic growth simply by focusing on the basic blocking and tackling principles of entrepreneurship," notes Alter. "Imagine what small business owners could do if the government actually made their lives a little easier and gave them a few incentives to grow their companies and hire more employees."

About SurePayroll:

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

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

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

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

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IMA World Health Announces Healthy Kids Kit

IMA World Health Announces Healthy Kids Kit

IMA World Health announces its Healthy Kids Kit, a basic package of sanitation and personal care items for Haitian children. The Kit is designed to help reduce illness and disease in Haiti's overcrowded camps, set up as a result of January's earthquake. Each Kit costs $15, and can be provided to a child through http://www. imaworldhealth. org.

New Windsor, MD (Vocus) May 18, 2010

IMA World Health (IMA) today announced the introduction of its Healthy Kids Kit, a compact and sturdy supply of basic sanitary and personal care items to help prevent illness in developing countries.

The Healthy Kids Kit was developed in cooperation with the Haitian Ministry of Health to help prevent illness and disease in post-quake Haiti, where overcrowding and poor sanitation is common. Frequent hand and face washing is an easy and effective way for a child to prevent disease. Each Healthy Kids Kit contains a bar of soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, skin lotion, and a new washcloth. These basic, critical personal health supplies are packaged in a sturdy safe-lock bag for storage.

IMA will deliver Healthy Kids Kits through its existing Haitian health care network. IMA manages, with funding from USAID, an integrated Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD) control program with a goal to eliminate diseases causing elephantiasis and intestinal worms. Partners include the Haitian Ministry of Health, World Health Organization, and Centers for Disease Control. Healthy Kids Kits will be delivered through this network, which serves hundreds of thousands of Haitians of all ages. 

“Healthy Kids Kits address basic sanitation needs in a way that can reduce illness and disease,” said Richard L. Santos, President and CEO of IMA World Health. “Donating a Healthy Kids Kit in Haiti is an easy, yet very effective way to make a real difference in a child’s life.”

Individuals and organizations can provide a Healthy Kids Kit for $15. A Family Pack, which provides Kits for three children, can be provided for a donation of $45. A gift of $300 will fund a Classroom Pack, with kits for a moderate-sized class of 20 children. To donate a Healthy Kids Kit and help save a life, please visit http://www. imaworldhealth. org.

Healthy Kids Kits joins other IMA medical packages, including the Safe Motherhood Kit, which enables women to give birth safely by providing them with clean and sterile supplies, training on how to prevent infection, and warm clothes to protect their newborns; and the IMA Medicine Box®, which provides basic medicines and supplies to treat up to 1,000 people for two to three months. IMA also works in the major areas of disease control, training and education, and health system strengthening.

About IMA World Health
IMA World Health is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that helps provide essential healthcare services and medical supplies to people in need around the world. IMA operates primarily in developing nations to restore health, hope and dignity to those most in need. For more information, visit us at http://www. IMAWorldHealth. org or call 877-241-7952.

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Dermatologist Dr. Joshua Fox Provides Tips to Work Out a Way to Avoid Gym Germs

Dermatologist Dr. Joshua Fox Provides Tips to Work Out a Way to Avoid Gym Germs

Dermatologist Dr. Joshua Fox on staying healthy while staying in shape.

New York, NY (PRWEB) January 15, 2008

You workout to stay in tip top shape not to pick up a nasty skin infection. But especially in winter, when cold winds rage outside, even the heartiest of us depend on gyms or health clubs to get our weekly dose of exercise. And as everyone knows, health clubs--where hundreds of people may be using the same equipment, showers and saunas--can harbor germs.

Most everyone walking has heard of athlete's foot and knows you can pick that up in gym showers or even walking barefoot around damp health club floors. The solution? Wear flip-flops! And everyone knows that it's not hard to get sick when the girl or guy who used the Stairmaster just moments before you climbed on has a raging cold. Yes, before you use shared equipment you should take a moment to wipe them down with the disinfectants many gyms now keep handy.

But this year, the bar has been raised in terms of scary germs you can contact at the gym; this year there's talk of a sometimes deadly staph infection called Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus, or MRSA for short. The question is, do you really need to worry about catching MRSA at the gym?

Dr. Joshua Fox founder of Advanced Dermatology and a spokesperson for the American Academy of Dermatology, answers by saying, "No--and yes." If that sounds more like a politician than a physician it's only because Dr. Fox is being careful. "Last week, one of my patients called in a panic after hearing folks at her health club joke about staph infections. She wasn't laughing. She was downright scared." He goes on to say, "I'm glad she called so I could set her mind at ease a bit, but also so I could review with her some simple, smart ways to keep MRSA, and really any skin germs, at bay--through the winter or any time of year."

For those who haven't heard the news about MRSA, Dr. Fox explains: "Staph infections used to be associated with hospitals and large health care facilities. And there's no doubt that most staph infections occur in people who've recently had medical procedures such as dialysis, surgery or catheters--and especially in those with weakened immunes systems. So, no, ordinarily, you need not worry about staph. But this new variant--MRSA--has been found in recreational athletes, and is transmitted most frequently by direct skin-to-skin contact." The Center for Disease Control notes on its website that because MRSA can move from the skin to infect the blood and bones--with potentially life threatening complications--and because it is antibiotic-resistant, it makes sense to be a bit more careful. In our practice we have seen the number of MRSA infections increase over the last few years It is important that antibiotics resisted only means that it is more resistant to antibiotics than normal - not that no antibiotics work against it. We have been successful treating these patients.

In fact, it is much more likely that you will contract tinea pedis (that's latin for the fungal skin infection athlete's foot) than a staph infection. Like other common skin diseases that show up on the feet--and that includes the fungal infection Onychomycosis or the virus plantar warts--athlete's foot is easily treated by over-the-counter products or, for more stubborn cases, with a prescription medicine or treatment that your dermatologist can prescribe.

Avoiding any skin infection at the gym means following the advice your Mom always gave you, such as "Wash your hands before you eat!" and "Use a clean towel!" But with MRSA in the picture, Dr. Fox seconds the directives of the Centers for Disease Control has posted on its website, namely:
Keep your hands clean by washing with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand rub Shower after you work out Cover any open skin area such as abrasions or cuts with a clean dry bandage Avoid sharing personal items such as towels or razors Use a barrier (e. g., clothing or a towel) between your skin and shared equipment, and, finally Wipe surfaces of equipment with an antiseptic spray before and after use.

The good news is that these precautions--which are really just good hygiene--will not only protect you from MRSA, they should provide you with protection against such run-of-the mill skin infections as Athlete's foot, plantar and other warts, Tinea Versacolor, Herpes Simplex, Onychomycosis--and even help you from catching a bothersome cold.

So don't forego your workouts for fear of catching a skin disease. In fact, add an additional lift this winter: lift the antiseptic spray bottle before you jump on the Stairmaster or pick up a dumbbell that someone else has just used. And if you have questions about prevention, or a rash or bump that's turned up anywhere on your body, call your dermatologist. As Dr. Fox says, "As a dermatologist, I'm here to both prevent and to treat skin diseases."

Bio: Joshua L. Fox, M. D., F. A.A. D
Joshua L. Fox, M. D., is a leading authority in the field of dermatology with an expertise in skin cancer, cosmetic surgery, and laser procedures. As an official spokesperson for the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Dr. Fox has been an expert resource on dermatologic topics for numerous televisions networks, including ABC, CBS, CNN, NBC and Telemundo, talk shows, radio stations, newspapers and magazines. He has received multiple research and clinical awards, including recognition from Top Doctors, Who's Who, Journal of Dermatologic Surgery and Oncology, Community Service Award from the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, the prestigious Husic Award, as well as certificates of recognition for service from multiple hospitals, civic, educational and community organizations. Dr. Fox has authored and presented papers of his research on lasers, cosmetic procedures, stretch marks, scars, skin cancer, bug bites, photosensitivity and various rashes.

As founder and director of Advanced Dermatology and The Center for Laser and Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Fox and associates have expanded the practice to one of the largest in dermatology, laser and cosmetic surgery, with more lasers than any hospital on the eastern coast. Dr. Fox is a graduate of the New York University Medical Center of Skin and Cancer and has been on the advisory board of the Psoriasis Foundation and National Rosacea Foundation, among others. He has also been a fellow of many societies, including the International Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, International Academy of Cosmetic Dermatology and the Society for Investigative Dermatology. Dr. Fox is the founder of the AAD Melanoma/Skin Cancer Prevention Program in Queens, New York (since 1987). Dr. Fox has been Chief of Dermatology of several major teaching hospitals, including Mt. Sinai Hospital of Queens and Jamaica Medical Center, and is currently on the staff of eight NY area hospitals. Dr. Fox is also the founder of New Age Skin Research Foundation at www. newageresearch. org], committed to research and advocacy in dermatology. Dr. Fox and Advanced Dermatology and The Center for Laser & Cosmetic Surgery have been used as a resource center educating dermatologists, laser surgeons and cosmetic surgeons and others about lasers, cancer and cosmetic surgery. www. advancedd. com.

Contact: Melissa Chefec, MCPR Public Relations, 203-968-6625

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Tridon Industries Announces New Staff Additions and a Promotion

Tridon Industries Announces New Staff Additions and a Promotion

Three Employees Added to Company Roster, One Employee Promoted

Pottstown, PA (PRWEB) March 30, 2006 –-

Tridon Industries is pleased to announce that Gary Wezel has been hired as Project Manager of Tridon Fireproofing, LLC, one of the company’s subsidiaries. He is responsible for overseeing the company’s line of fireproofing products and coordinating fireproofing projects. Gary’s 24-year service as a volunteer fireman, as well as his involvement in various fire-related organizations, equips him for his new position. Previously, he worked as an electro-mechanical technician for a major automaker, and served for four years as the Health and Safety Chairman of the local United Auto Workers Union.

Katie McVay has joined the company as Marketing Assistant. She is charged with assisting in the promotion and marketing of the company’s line of products. Katie has a degree in English from Kutztown University and eight years’ experience in the marketing communications industry.

In addition, Joe Dehaven has been hired as an installer. He is a U. S. Army Ranger and has just returned from active military duty in Iraq.

Steve Wezel has been promoted to Chief Financial Officer. In his new role, he will be responsible for directing Tridon’s overall financial policies and overseeing all financial functions. Steve was formerly the Chief Operations Officer.

Tridon Industries, headquartered in Pottstown, PA, is a premiere distributor and installer of high quality insulation, soundproofing and fireproofing products. The company services Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia and the entire New England area. For the past three years, the company has been named to the Philadelphia 100®, a list that honors the fastest growing privately-held companies in the Greater Philadelphia region.

For additional information on Tridon Industries, contact the company toll-free at 1-800-760-8044 or visit the website at www. tridoninsulation. com.

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Prescription blogs are helping to educate the consumers on prescription consumption

Prescription blogs are helping to educate the consumers on prescription consumption

Weblogs are used for everything from advertising to zoos. Blogs are becoming the voice of the people by making it easier for someone to put out their thoughts on to the world wide web.

(PRWEB) July 31, 2005

Blogs are being used on a more consistent basis due to their simplicity and accessibility to the public.

A Blog is defined as a recurrent, chronological journal of personal thoughts and web links. Blogs are originally known as weblogs. The word “blog” is a slang term that causes less confusion among web users. Weblogs can be seen as a journal of the web site that it originates from. There are about as many blog types as there are web sites.

Prescription drug blogs offer consumers an easy way to share information and experiences associated with prescription drugs. A medical blog can offer many perspectives on one issue while educating consumers. Many people are turning to blogs for valuable information, while others say much of the content on blogs are worthless.

The best source for prescription and medical blogs are the ones run by doctors and health professionals. Doctors are likely to reveal more due to the anonymity of blogs. Scientists can also be found blogging prescription weblogs and sharing information on drug development and future technology.

For additional information on prescription blogs and other male enhancement drugs, contact your local physician or look to an online pharmacy such as www. the-online-pharmacy. ws/news (http://www. the-online-pharmacy. ws/news).

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Sir Elton John Signs £1M Grant to Protect African Babies

Sir Elton John Signs £1M Grant to Protect African Babies

Sir Elton John today announced from Cape Town, South Africa, the granting of a £984,000 award to mothers2mothers (m2m) to be used to help prevent hundreds of thousands of babies across Africa from contracting HIV and empowering mothers living with HIV.

(PRWEB) March 23, 2010

Sir Elton John today announced from Cape Town, South Africa, the granting of a £984,000 award to mothers2mothers (http://www. m2m. org) (m2m) to be used to help prevent hundreds of thousands of babies across Africa from contracting the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) through mother-to child transmission and assist mothers in staying healthy to care for their children.

The award, a multi-year grant from The Elton John AIDS Foundation (http://www. ejaf. com) (EJAF), will enable m2m to work to develop effective programmes to support clinical efforts preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV, across sub-Saharan Africa and develop a gold standard for delivering and monitoring these programmes.

Each year, an estimated 1.4 million women living with HIV become pregnant. Without effective medical intervention and education, up to 40% of these women will transmit HIV to their children, either during pregnancy or in the first years of the infant’s life. Scientific advances and high-quality medical care have almost eradicated pediatric AIDS in resource rich countries. 91% of the global cases of mother-to-child transmission of HIV emanate from sub-Saharan Africa, where there are overwhelming systemic, societal and economic barriers to care. The grant from the EJAF will enable m2m to explore and roll out effective and affordable client interventions in over 600 health care facilities across Africa.

‘I visited mothers2mothers’ programme at Site B clinic in Khayelitsha a couple of years ago’ comments Sir Elton, ‘and was knocked out by how effective the Mentor Mother approach can be. We want an HIV-free generation in Africa and m2m is going to help us get there.’

M2m works in health care facilities partnering with doctors and nurses to meet the comprehensive needs of HIV-positive pregnant women and new mothers. The organisation recruits HIV-positive mothers after they deliver their babies and trains them to work as paid professional health care providers in the clinics and maternity wards where they once received medical care. These peer educators, called “Mentor Mothers”, engage, educate and support HIV-positive pregnant women and new mothers, guiding them in measures to prevent HIV transmission to their babies and in steps to ensure they will remain healthy to raise their children. These efforts contribute to empowering women and reducing stigma by teaching people to “live positively” with HIV.

Dr. Mitch Besser, Founder and Medical Director, and Gene Falk, Co-founder and President of mothers2mothers commented: “We are overwhelmed by the incredible generosity of the Elton John AIDS Foundation. This grant comes at a pivotal time in mothers2mothers’ growth as we strive to provide more care to more mothers and babies, ensuring that they receive, understand and embrace all of the medical services that contribute to healthy HIV-free children and healthy mothers. This grant will be transformational for our organization’s ability to measure the impact of our efforts and ensure we are providing the most effective services to our families. We are thrilled to be part of this strategic partnership with EJAF.”

Since 2001, m2m has grown from a local program in the townships of Cape Town, South Africa, to a multinational organization that employs and empowers more than 1600 women living with HIV in more than 600 health care facilities in seven African countries. Currently, m2m is located in South Africa, Lesotho, Swaziland, Rwanda, Kenya, Malawi and Zambia, with expansion planned in 2010 into Uganda, Mozambique and Tanzania. In 2009, mothers2mothers enrolled nearly 300,000 pregnant women and new mothers living with HIV into its programme.

About EJAF
Since its establishment in 1992 by founder and Chairman Sir Elton John, EJAF has raised over $175m to support HIV/AIDS prevention and care programmes in 55 countries around the globe. EJAF focuses on supporting community based, direct care services to people living with HIV/AIDS and those highly vulnerable to the disease. This includes HIV counseling and testing, medical treatment access, food security, shelter, psychosocial services, harm reduction, legal aid, and condom distribution.

For more information on the work of the Foundation visit www. ejaf. com or contact:
Anne Aslett, Executive Director - anne(dot)aslett(at)ejaf(dot)com
Simon Prytherch, Director of Fundraising – simon(dot)prytherch(at)ejaf(dot)com

For more information on the work of mothers2mothers visit www. m2m. org or contact:
Steven Guy, Development Communications steven(at)m2m(dot)org +27 (0)82 839-4222.

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Sales Professionals Go Low-Carb

Sales Professionals Go Low-Carb

New Sales Methodology Creates Healthier Sales and Fatter Commission Checks

Kansas City, MO (PRWEB) July 17, 2004

Book publisher iUniverse, Inc. has announced the launch of Twenty Days to the Top - How the PRECISE Selling Formula Will Make You Your Company's Top Sales Performer in Twenty Days or Less, written by noted author and speaker, Brian Sullivan. The sales methodology in Twenty Days is doing for salespeople what many of the "trendy" diets have done for low-carb dieters. While most salespeople load up their customer's plates with "full-figured" presentations loaded with verbal carbs, the sales formula taught in Twenty Days to the Top is teaching salespeople how to trim the fat when serving customers. With comical anecdotes and real "meat" that the average salesperson can use regardless of industry, this low-carb sales reference is becoming the most popular sales methodology for many of the 34 million American salespeople looking for healthier sales and more portly commission checks.

Twenty Days to the Top gives a fresh new insight into the worldÂ’s greatest profession by unlocking the secrets to becoming a company's top sales performer in 20 days or less. Salespeople will learn how to:

-Use an 8-cent tool to become famous in any industry 

-Deliver the meat of their presentation, without weighing down their customer

-Make customers, colleagues and CEO want to be just like them 

-Increase product, industry, and competition knowledge without becoming a sales geek

-Be stupid to make stupid big money· Perform 7 commission-building PRECISE Actions on every call

-Use the CLEAR Questioning Technique to crack open a customer's heart and soul

"I was my company's Top Sales Performer for 2003! You're a genius!"—Linda Jamison—National Account Manager—Time Warner Book Group

"The PRECISE Selling Formula taught in Twenty Days to the Top has been worth a million. Literally! We just closed on our first $1 million account. This doesn't happen without PRECISE Selling. This low-carb sales methodology is making my sales numbers fat!"—Bob Bricking—Velvet Ice Cream Company

"The seven PRECISE Actions taught in Twenty Days to the Top have been instrumental in creating a culture of top performers."—John Moran—Senior VP of Sales—Welch Allyn, Inc

To learn more about Twenty Days to the Top, visit www. preciseselling. com.

E2 Systems Announces Exercise Explorer Version 2: Software to Manage, Track, and Analyze Exercise

E2 Systems Announces Exercise Explorer Version 2: Software to Manage, Track, and Analyze Exercise

E2 SystemsÂ’ Exercise Explorer Version 2 gives personal trainers a complete set of tools to administer workouts for their clients. It creates workouts, prints workout and exercise cards, tracks performance, and prints comprehensive progress reports that provide a rich set of deliverables that motivate and retain clients.

(PRWEB) April 24, 2002

SILVERADO, CA – April 24, 2002 – E2 Systems’ Exercise Explorer Version 2 gives personal trainers a complete set of tools to administer workouts for their clients. It creates workouts, prints workout and exercise cards, tracks performance, and prints comprehensive progress reports that provide a rich set of deliverables that motivate and retain clients.

Version 2 makes generating workouts simple by using a wizard to go step by step through the process. Workouts are adjusted automatically to a clientÂ’s fitness level and ability, with flexible scheduling and equipment choices. Additional exercises may be added to the 325 in the system, and all printed reports and cards may be personalized with custom text and logos.

Workouts may target any combination of body regions or activities. This targeting is made possible by a relational database that has detailed analyses of all the exercises and over 100 activities ranging from archery to water skiing.

The technical advisor for Exercise Explorer is Lawrence A. Golding, Ph. D., FASCM. Dr. Golding, a Distinguished Professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and Editor-in-Chief of ACSMÂ’s Health & Fitness Journal, brings over 40 years of practical experience and knowledge to Exercise Explorer. In addition, an advisory board of fitness professionals contributes to the accuracy of the content.

Exercise Explorer includes videos that demonstrate each exercise and body action, and over 40 minutes of instructive videos with Dr. Golding discussing exercise-related topics. Also included is a detailed anatomical muscle reference and an analysis of all activities and exercises.

Exercise Explorer is designed to be user friendly. Version 2 is currently available in a professional edition for individual trainers and trainers in a club environment. The Trainer Edition supports a single trainer, while the Club Edition supports multiple trainers. Personal and academic editions will be released soon.

Founded in June 2000, E2 Systems has been developing Exercise Explorer Version 2 since the successful release of Version 1 last summer. Additional features and capabilities for the software are in development.

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Novus Life Nutrition Signs Exclusive Distribution Agreement with Well Respected Sports Nutrition Distribution Company, USA Sports, LLC

Novus Life Nutrition Signs Exclusive Distribution Agreement with Well Respected Sports Nutrition Distribution Company, USA Sports, LLC.

Novus Life Nutrition recently announced the formation of an exclusive partnership with sports nutrition distribution industry leader USA Sports. Novus Life Nutrition, a cutting-edge, technology-enhanced nutrition company focused on healing and endocrine-balance products such as HELIX and AXIS, has joined forces with USA Sports in order to have immediate access to the extensive, nationwide network of USA's retail customers.

Gilbert, AZ (PRWEB) June 10, 2010

Novus Life Nutrition recently announced the formation of an exclusive partnership with sports nutrition distribution industry leader USA Sports. Novus Life Nutrition, a cutting-edge, technology-enhanced nutrition company focused on healing and endocrine-balance products such as HELIX and AXIS, has joined forces with USA Sports in order to have immediate access to the extensive, nationwide network of USA's retail customers.

This partnership represents a revolution in sports nutrition.

USA Sports, LLC, a newly formed distributor of top-name sports nutrition products, was founded by Joe Mies, former C. O.O. of BOSS. “We are committed to a healthy change in the sport nutrition market. The USA Sports team brings integrity and experience to the marketplace with industry pioneer Bob O’Leary acting as an advisor and Ron Coleman, former Mr. Universe, heading our promotions department. All of us at USA Sports, LLC are excited by the opportunity presented by Novus Life Nutrition,” says Joe Mies, Founder & Managing Partner.

Novus Life Nutrition will roll out their revolutionary recovery product, HELIX, in July 2010. HELIX, and other Novus Life Nutrition products, will be available on retail shelves nationwide in Q3 2010. These highly anticipated technology enhanced products are focused on repair, recovery and endocrine balance. In the next several months, they will be accompanied by a line of all natural diabetes products. www. novuslifenutrition. com

Novus Life Nutrition is led by CEO Dr. Robert Foster, Ph. D. Harvard University. “The commercialization of our proprietary SU2 Technology is a major milestone in world of Food and Supplement Science. We are grateful to Dr. William Tiller for his pioneering work in materials science and physics that has brought us to this point in history. It is also with great anticipation that we have partnered with USA Sports; their entire team embodies the spirit of ethics that we need to bring this technology to the market.”

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HealthFitness Announces Executive Changes: Chief Operations Officer and New Medical Officer Appointed; Vice Chairman Retires

HealthFitness Announces Executive Changes: Chief Operations Officer and New Medical Officer Appointed; Vice Chairman Retires

John Griffin, Jim Reynolds, MD join executive team; Jerry Noyce announces retirement.

Minneapolis, MN (PRWEB) February 5, 2008

HealthFitness (OTC BB: HFIT) announced today that John Griffin has joined the company as chief operations officer, Jim Reynolds, MD, has joined the company as chief medical officer and Jerry Noyce has retired as vice chairman. HealthFitness is a leading provider of employee health management programs. Managing more than 400 fitness centers globally, the company also offers a suite of health management services on-site, Web-based and telephonically.

In his new position, Griffin oversees operations, information technology and account services functions at HealthFitness. Griffin brings more than 20 years’ experience in executive leadership of health management and health information technology organizations. He comes to HealthFitness from the Meridian Group, a consulting company he founded which focused on health care financial forecasting, budgeting, strategic planning and operational management. Prior to that Griffin served as chief operating officer of Gordian Health Solutions, a population health management organization headquartered in Nashville, Tenn.

As chief medical officer, Reynolds has oversight of all clinical aspects of programs and services, including establishment of best practice standards and use of evidence-based guidelines. In addition, Reynolds oversees the newly-formed Research, Development and Outcomes division, and will work in close collaboration with marketing and sales.

Reynolds comes to HealthFitness with an accomplished track record in employer-focused health management strategy development, program design and implementation. He most recently served with Mercer Human Resources Consulting as principal and senior healthcare consultant for its health and productivity management specialty practice. In that role he developed significant expertise for global health management solutions, and became Mercer’s spokesman on avian influenza pandemic preparedness planning. Prior to that Reynolds served in executive positions with CorSolutions and Health and Productivity Solutions of America, both employer-focused health and disease management companies. He is a physician with board certification in internal medicine.

HealthFitness also announced that Jerry Noyce retired from his role as vice chairman on Jan. 31. In this capacity he was involved in strategic development, international growth and acquisitions. He will continue to work on the President’s Council of Sports and Fitness, and in other advisory council roles which focus on health and fitness management. He will also continue to serve as director on the HealthFitness Board. Noyce joined the company in 2000 as president and chief executive officer, leading the company through expansion of its health management services and the acquisition of HealthCalc Network Inc. and the health and fitness division of Johnson & Johnson Health Care Systems Inc. Noyce has served as vice chairman of the company’s executive management team since late 2006 when HealthFitness formed a new executive structure.

“Under Jerry’s leadership, HealthFitness grew to become the nation’s premier provider of health management and fitness services to employers and health plans,” said Mark Sheffert, chairman of the board for HealthFitness. “We are pleased that he will continue to lead the industry with his considerable expertise in an advisory role on these important national boards.”

It was also announced today that Peter Egan, Ph. D., will leave HealthFitness where he served as chief science officer. Egan came to HealthFitness in 2005 with the acquisition of HealthCalc. Net, Inc., which he co-founded in 1997. Egan helped establish the Research, Development and Outcomes division at HealthFitness. He is leaving the company to pursue other interests.

“Both John Griffin and Jim Reynolds are valuable additions to the HealthFitness leadership team,” said Gregg O. Lehman, HealthFitness president and CEO. “Their collective experience in the health, disease and productivity management sector will serve HealthFitness well, adding significantly to what is already a strong focus on proven 21st century health benefit design strategies to enhance employee health and improve the bottom line for our clients.”

To read more about HealthFitness through its issue briefs: http://www. hfit. com/briefs. cfm (http://www. hfit. com/briefs. cfm).

About HealthFitness
HealthFitness is a leading provider of employee health improvement services to Fortune 500 companies, the health care industry and individual consumers. Serving clients for more than 30 years, HealthFitness partners with employers to effectively manage their health care and productivity costs by improving individual health and well-being. HealthFitness serves more than 300 clients globally via on-site management and remotely via Web and telephonic services. HealthFitness provides a complete portfolio of health and fitness management solutions including a proprietary health risk assessment platform, screenings, EMPOWERED™ Health Coaching and delivery of health improvement programs. HealthFitness employs more than 3,000 health and fitness professionals in national and international locations who are committed to the company’s mission of “improving the health and well-being of the people we serve.” For more information
On HealthFitness, visit www. hfit. com.

CONTACT:
Karla Hurter
Khurter(at)health2resources. com
703-319-0957

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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XRamp Security Services Launches Promotion for New Extended Validation SSL Certificates for E-Commerce Web Sites

XRamp Security Services Launches Promotion for New Extended Validation SSL Certificates for E-Commerce Web Sites

New browser security feature includes green Internet address bar to prevent phishing for only $349.

San Antonio, TX (PRWEB) November 8, 2006

XRamp Security Services (www. xramp. com), a global leader in providing high-quality security solutions for organizations requiring secure communications, announced a promotion for the new Extended Validation (EV) SSL certificates for only $349 beginning November 20th, 2006 and running through to the end of the year. The new security features are expected to take effect at the end of January with the official release of Microsoft Vista, as well as an update to Internet Explorer 7 which will include a URL address bar that turns green to inform users a web site is secure and has a valid EV certificate.

The $349 promotional price is a significant discount from the expected retail price that may range from $700 to $1500, and even after the promotion, XRamp expects to be more affordable than other competitive offerings. One of a handful of certification authorities (CA) to offer the new certificates, XRamp will be distributing them on a first come, first serve basis. Web sites using current digital SSL certificates will look to upgrade quickly as the new validation procedures will take longer due to the stringent validation requirements.

"Security risks such as phishing pose a serious threat to the continued healthy growth of the Internet and the adoption of e-commerce," says Scott Harris, President of XRamp. "The new EV SSL certificates will provide a simple, visible way for users to have peace of mind that the web site they are visiting is secure. XRamp will be at the forefront of this busy period, paying particular attention to the needs of small and mid-sized firms who perhaps may not get the service level they deserve from larger CAs.

"In order for this to be a commercially viable anti-phishing technology, it has to gain widespread market acceptance. Many have feared they will be priced out of the market. If only a small percentage of the largest web sites adopt this, it will fail in having the intended effect.

"So it is in everyone's interest that the new certificates are adopted on as wide a scale as possible. This new promotion is meant to help spur the adoption of the new certificates, and to ensure that all businesses--regardless of their size--can afford the security they need."

CrystalTech, a large hosting company and one of XRamp's partners, agrees with the importance of the new EV certificates. "Upgrading to the new Extended Validation certificates should become a priority for any company doing business on the internet," says Robert Cichon, President of CrystalTech. "Through early adoption and vigilance, threats to online business such as phishing scams can be reduced. We initially chose XRamp as a partner because of their desire to be 'first to market' with the latest in security services as the "early adoption" mentality has driven CrystalTech from day one. XRamp has consistently delivered on its promise of providing top-notch security solutions to our customers, and we're excited to be one of the first hosting providers to offer the new certificates to our customers."

About XRamp Security Services

XRamp is a global leader in providing high-quality security solutions for online merchants, universities, government entities, and any organization requiring secure communications. XRamp is a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner, and has received the AICPA/CICA WebTrust Seal of Assurance for Certification Authorities three years in a row. XRamp has also earned certification from MasterCard/Visa as a PCI-compliant scanning vendor. Since its inception in 2001, XRamp has prospered by offering high quality security solutions combined with excellent customer and technical support, making XRamp's services one of the best values in the industry. Visit www. XRamp. com for more information.

Media Contact: Edward Yang, Edward @ FirecrackerPR. com, (949) 500-6422

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