Celebrity big brother 2014: October 2003

HealthPro Releases Expert Guide for Physicians: ''How 22% of Physicians' Money is Lost in Medical Billing''

HealthPro Medical Billing, Inc. (HealthPro) today released the 2nd in a series of Expert Guides for radiologists and pathologists entitled "How 22% of Physicians' Money Is Lost in Medical Billing."

LIMA, Ohio (PRWEB) July 12, 2007

The Guide helps physicians identify and prevent potential areas of loss. It also includes a checklist physicians can use to evaluate their own practice groups' Risk of Billing Loss.

Eric Bostick, MD, a contributor and reviewer of the guide, stated that "During 3 years with a large company we lost money, but had no idea how much. Since switching to HealthPro who rigorously addressed these 8 key risks, we have collected millions of dollars that our previous vendor could not." Dr. Bostick has served as Medical Director at multiple Midwestern hospitals.

To request the Guide go to HealthPro's website www. healthpromedical. com and click on Expert Guides; call 800-892-3436; or email drodden@healthpromedical. com.

About HealthPro Medical Billing, Inc. (HealthPro)

HealthPro Medical Billing provides breakthrough expertise in medical billing to physicians in the radiology, imaging center and pathology specialties. Delivering market-leading results with the personal attention normally associated only with a small or local firm, HealthPro eliminates physician headaches normally associated with billing. Many physician clients find that their net income grows far in excess of 10% during their 1st year with HealthPro.

For more information on HealthPro or best practices in medical billing, visit HealthPro's website at http://www. healthpromedical. com (http://www. healthpromedical. com).

DCS Celebrates 30th Anniversary

Company That Started in an Attic Celebrates 30 Years of Vision, Technological Innovation and Excellence.

Livermore, CA (PRWEB) September 20, 2006

Diversified Collections Services, (DCS), a division of Performant Financial Corporation is proud to announce the thirtieth year as a leading provider of financial and debt management solutions. In an era when debt management companies come and go, DCS has achieved three decades of innovation and steady growth.

DCS began operations in 1976 when Jim Tracey, the company’s founder and then President, and ten employees started the company out of an attic in a building in Oakland, California. The company was founded on strong values that recognize the importance of innovation, best practice, and people. Mr. Tracey was well-recognized for his generosity and concern for his employees. A 20+year employee recalls, “He would give away color TVs when he himself did not own one.” Mr. Tracey was also a key influence in recovery practices and contracts over the years. His operational savvy and production expertise were unique in the market—best practices—delivering top of the market returns to clients. He also instilled a strong sense of innovation within DCS, which culminated in a proprietary debt management system which is uniquely designed to meet the needs of clients and recovery staff—simple to use, effective process, innovative design.

One of the company’s first successes, City College of San Francisco, led to a profitable education market segment. Currently, DCS has, by the end of 2005, collected over $750 million dollars for the U. S. Department of Education.

Over the years, the company also added The U. S. Department of the Treasury, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid, the taxing authorities for numerous states, and some of the largest guaranty agencies in the country.

Since January of 2004, the company has been under guidance of Lisa Im, the current Chairman of the Board, President and CEO of Performant Financial Corporation. Ms. Im has focused the company on expanding its trusted advisory services, business process management, and technology solutions to public and private sector customers across the healthcare, education, and collections industries. DCS has continued to develop the framework necessary for the company to utilize the Total Performant Capabilities method. TPC is a tailored solutions portfolio approach, which enables the company to capitalize on emerging opportunities across a broad range on industries while upholding the core values. “We are a client-centric company, and our success is measured by the success of our clients. Our platform is one of risk-sharing and performance driven compensation,” states Im. “We’re now a national company with offices in San Angelo, Texas; Lathrop, California; Grants Pass, Oregon; and we are headquartered in Livermore, California. Our staff of more than 800 professionals is second-to-none in terms of experience. With senior managers involved on the front lines and a culture of teamwork, we deliver unmatched recovery results and outstanding customer service.”

As DCS customer base has expanded during its thirty-year history, the company has focused on training, technology, and process as prime components of its debt management solutions. These services help customers realize their audit recovery goals. For more than thirty years DCS has achieved stellar recovery results for both government and commercial clients. DCS has currently recovered more than $4 billion for our clients.

About Performant Financial Corporation

Headquartered in Livermore, California, Performant Financial Corporation delivers trusted advisory services through best-in-class technology solutions and unparalleled execution. The company is built upon three foundational principles: a commitment to innovation; building long-term, trusted relationships with partners and customers; and consistent investments in strengthening the industry's most highly skilled workforce. Performant also has offices in Lathrop, California; Grants Pass, Oregon; San Angelo, Texas. More information is available at http://www. performantcorp. com (http://www. performantcorp. com).

Media Contact:

Andrew Fairbanks

Performant Financial

925-960-4778

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SurePayroll Insights Survey: Small Business Owners Rely on Web-Based Software for Big Business Success

Small business owners favor online solutions over desktop software

Glenview, IL (PRWEB) June 18, 2008

A recent survey conducted by online payroll service SurePayroll (http://www. surepayrolll. com) reveals that small business owners are increasingly abandoning traditional desktop software solutions in favor of Web-based software that better allows them to compete with big business, with nearly 3 out of 4 saying they rely on it to be successful.

Web-based software, commonly known as "software as a service" (SaaS), enables users to work in an online environment instead of purchasing or licensing the software, which has been the more traditional approach among business owners. Some of the most well-known examples of SaaS include SalesForce, McAfee and banks that provide online accounts.

The survey suggests that SaaS is making significant strides in popularity in the small business community, with 58 percent of respondents indicating that their use of Web-based software is increasing dramatically each year, in addition to the nearly three-fourths who feel business success depends on it.

"The use of online software is growing so rapidly among small business owners because they understand that it can mean the difference between success and failure," says SurePayroll Chief Technology Officer Michael Fineberg. "Access to these comprehensive, easy-to-use solutions allows small businesses to level the playing field with big business to a greater extent than ever."

According to the survey results, SaaS popularity will not wane anytime soon. In fact, 3 out of 4 respondents believe that within 10 years there will be no such thing as desktop software and that all applications will exist on servers that users will access remotely.

"When SurePayroll launched the first SaaS payroll service in 2000, it was only the early technology adaptors who immediately saw the benefits and jumped on board," says Fineberg. "In 2008, most small business owners seem to understand the advantages of using Web-based software as a low-maintenance and low-commitment business tool."

According to a survey of business technology professionals conducted by InformationWeek Research and publicized in the June 2008 issue of InformationWeek, SaaS is an appealing solution for business leaders because of its reliability, ease of use and ability to be upgraded. SurePayroll's survey had similar findings, with respondents saying they enjoy convenient access from anywhere, the fact that they don't need internal support for the software, and fast and easy implementation.

-- SaaS Security Ranks as Top Concern Among Small Business Owners --

Although most small business owners are using SaaS to achieve big business benefits, the SurePayroll survey also indicates that they do not necessarily feel secure. 60 percent of respondents considered security risk a drawback of using Web-hosted software.

"It's true that not all Web-based software is secure, and that's why business owners have to make sure they fully understand the functionality and history of an online service before making it a part of their business," says Fineberg.

According to Fineberg, small business owners shouldn't be afraid to ask a web-based business about their security, recommending they ask the following key questions:

1. Do they perform comprehensive vulnerability audits and penetration tests regularly?

2. Do they perform daily scans, conferring the HackerSafe certification?

3. Do they utilize firewalls, encryption and other intrusion prevention mechanisms?

"If business owners are informed about how to get the greatest advantage out of SaaS, it can empower them to dramatically increase productivity," he says. "The effects of this trend will only become more apparent as small business leaders continue to discover the nuances of Web-based software."

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 ClickFREE(TM) 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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Blue Lotus Celebrates Third Year of 100% Growth

Repeating its consistent two year performance of over 100% growth, Blue Lotus Communications Consultancy (Blue Lotus) today announced its hat-trick year of triple digit growth. Arguably among the fastest growing public relations agencies in India, Blue Lotus in its third year has acquired a marquee list of 25 retainer clients and 55 consultants across its 6 offices. The agency which completes its third year in October 2005 currently has capitalized billings of over Rupees Fifteen Crores.

India, Mumbai (PRWEB) November 5, 2005

Insisting on the importance of the client-agency-media relationships, N. Chandramouli, CEO, Blue Lotus averred, “Over 60% of our business is through referrals and we have nearly 100% renewal of our client mandates. Naturally, this does not happen by accident. We took every feedback from our clients very seriously and looped it to improve our processes. Over time we have evolved a methodology that empowers the customer completely and yet gives us the operational freedom be flexible. Added to our existing knowledge pool in the sectors of our expertise, this combination helps in ensuring effective delivery for clients.”

The three year agency has specializations in Healthcare, Technology, Associations, Finance & IPO and Education. The agency’s impressive array of clients include Sharekhan, Trend Micro, Spryance, Mahindra Special Services Group, Bristlecone Inc, among others. The agency also has the exclusive distinction of handling six divisions of Johnson & Johnson as independent retainer accounts. “Public Relations as a sector has been growing rapidly at 40% to 50% per annum, and we have been consistently outperforming the sector. Our niche is in being able to give a big-agency reach, and yet maintaining a close contact with all our clients on an everyday level”, added Chandramouli. “The people at Team Blue are given complete freedom and each one has handled it brilliantly and responsibly. It is their ownership and participation which has orchestrated Blue Lotus’ growth”.

About Blue Lotus Communications Consultancy

Blue Lotus is a three year agency that started in October 2002. With humble beginnings as a two-person agency, the agency has grown to a size of 55 consultants, 6 offices and 3 profitable business lines in this very short time-span. The other business lines of the group include a design boutique called Mustard Designs and Blue Bytes, an Information Logistics Cell.

For further media information, please contact:

Melissa Serrao

Blue Lotus Communications Consultancy

M: +91-9820682163

P: 022-22833146/ 22048250

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Consumer Product Carbon Footprints Up to 60% Higher than Necessary, with Simple Solutions Being Ignored by Manufacturers

Research from Bureau Veritas, the leading specialist in Quality, Health, Safety & Environment, Conformity and Supply Chain Risk Management, conducted on more than 2,000 products, highlights that consumer products’ carbon footprint is up to 60% higher than necessary and that simple steps by manufacturers could save UK 1 million tonnes each year in carbon.

(PRWeb UK) April 15, 2010

If manufacturers were to adopt simple ecodesign principles and re-evaluate the production process of just five staple consumer products (kettle, television, mobile phone, fridge, DSL box), the UK would save over 1.2 million tonnes of C02 each year – the equivalent of taking over 5 billion road miles off the roads.

These figures result from eight years of products’ Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) research into the carbon footprints of over 2,000 consumer products and the examination of manufacturing processes to identify where this can be reduced. Conducted by compliance testing and certification specialist, Bureau Veritas, the research also reveals that most consumer goods are capable of having their carbon footprints reduced by as much as 60 per cent, if manufacturers adopt better ecodesign philosophies and commit to improving their supply chains and production methods; processes that could actually save them money.

The study also highlights that while the Government’s forthcoming Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC) legislation will address the energy consumption of large UK businesses and manufacturing companies, it doesn’t address the issue of embedded carbon; carbon resulting from the production of products or parts that are imported from countries outside of the UK or Europe. These product based carbon contributions impact heavily on our total national carbon footprint, as carbon emissions have the same environmental impact regardless of origin.

Working with Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services and its ecodesign solutions team, manufacturers can reduce the environmental impact of their products, reducing carbon footprints by up to 60 per cent. The solution from Bureau Veritas is also designed to help save manufacturers money as a result of a more transparent, efficient production process and supply chain.

Similarly, with environmental labelling (including carbon footprint) expected to roll out across Europe in the future, it will stand retailers and manufacturers in good stead to act now and ensure they have the ability to measure, report and reduce the environmental impact of the products they make to support consumers in making informed purchasing decisions on environmentally friendly products.

Xavier Vital, Bureau Veritas, said: “While consumers are making huge efforts to recycle and buy responsibly, many companies are still making and selling products that could easily have their environmental impact reduced considerably, but have yet to take the necessary steps to support the efforts of their customers. Not only would these steps help improve environmental performance and the opinion of many consumers, they would also help manufacturers improve production processes and supply chain efficiencies, and potentially even save them money.

“It is also clear that as a nation we will have to do more to quantify and reduce the amount of embedded carbon in the products we consume, which is currently not addressed in the UK’s Carbon Reduction Commitment.”

To find out more about consumer products’ carbon footprint, meet Brian Whitters and Xavier Vital - Bureau Veritas’ environmental experts - at the Responsible Business Summit on the 4th and 5th May 2010 (Novotel London West): http://www. ethicalcorp. com/rbs/ (http://www. ethicalcorp. com/rbs/)

About Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services

Founded in 1828, Bureau Veritas is an international group specialised in the inspection, analysis, audit, and certification of products, infrastructure (buildings, industrial sites, equipment, ships, etc.) and management systems (ISO standards etc.) in relation to regulatory or voluntary frameworks.

Bureau Veritas ranks as the world's second largest group in conformity assessment and certification services in the fields of quality, health and safety, environment, and social responsibility ("QHSE") and the world leader in QHSE services not including raw materials inspection. Bureau Veritas is recognised and accredited by major national and international organisations.

Bureau Veritas is present in 140 countries through a network of 900 offices and laboratories. It has more than 40,000 employees and a client base of more than 370,000 staff.

Bureau Veritas is headquartered in France and listed on the French Bourse.

For more press information, please contact Alexa Besnard at Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services UK or visit www. bureauveritas. co. uk/cps (http://www. bureauveritas. co. uk/cps)

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Kerry Hadley Launches Her New Novel, 'The Chameleon Room'

"The Chameleon Room" is a page-turning mystery that will engage all readers

London, UK (PRWEB) January 20, 2009

In her novel, "The Chameleon Room," author Kerry Hadley tells the story of three young people living together in England who feel the effects of a mysterious past on their current lives.

The narrator relates the story of life with her lover Angelo and her emotionally tortured friend Kary. The three grew up together in Devon, England, and were raised by a mysterious woman known as the Doctor. The main conflict of the story revolves around Kary, a young woman with severe mental health problems. Kary becomes obsessed with her married boyfriend Clive and develops an intense and dangerous desire to become pregnant.

Kary's disturbing actions cause the Narrator to reflect on their childhood in order to discover how the three came to be together. As the story unfolds, dark and disturbing secrets are uncovered, revealing a number of themes that include: the relentless need to be loved, love, obsession, moral and ethical dilemmas regarding reproduction, loss, and death.

"The Chameleon Room" deals with dark revelations of childhood that shaped the Narrator, Angelo, and Kary. The writing is rich in symbolism and imagery. The story is an intense and dark look at characters who struggle to face their internal demons.

Book Reviews

Tracy Roberts, Write Field Services

"'The Chameleon Room' is a well written dark drama that exposes many issues of human morality. With its many surprises, the plot of unraveling the three characters childhood secrets will keep readers engaged from start to end. It is highly recommended to readers who enjoy compelling stories of human frailty."

M. M. Martens, New York. Reader Review

"Each level of the story exposes more, and other characters appear who achieve significance in the narrator's life. The revelation of what 'The Chameleon Room' was and who the Doctor really is came as a shock."

Book Ordering

"The Chameleon Room," ISBN: 143892271X, is published by Authorhouse UK and can be purchased online at Authorhouse UK, Amazon Bookstores, BN. com, and many other online bookstores. The author's website is http://kerryhadley. co. uk/ (http://kerryhadley. co. uk/).

About the Author

Kerry Hadley has written fiction for as long as she can remember. She has been fortunate enough to have indulged her interests by completing a degree in English and Literary Studies and a further degree in Psychology. Having worked as a secondary school teacher since 1999, Kerry's particular interest has been English Language. She lives with her family in the West Midlands, UK. "The Chameleon Room" is her first novel.

If you are interested in reviewing "The Chameleon Room" or arranging for a talk and book signing, or interview, please contact Kerry Hadley at kerryhadley2001(at)yahoo(dot)co(dot)uk, or by phone at 07855 791974 (mobile) or 01384 372721.

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RK Dixon Celebrates 25 Years of Service: Exceptional Customer Commitment Leads to Long-term Success

RK Dixon, a leading provider of copiers and printers, managed print services and IT solutions, is celebrating their 25th anniversary this year.

Davenport, Iowa (PRWEB) December 16, 2008

RK Dixon (http://www. rkdixon. com/), a leading provider of copiers and printers, managed print services and IT solutions, is celebrating their 25th anniversary this year. A celebration for their 200 employees and guests was held this fall at the River Center in Davenport, Iowa.

RK Dixon was founded in 1983 by Bob and Carla Dixon, with office locations in Davenport, Iowa, and Peoria and Rockford, Illinois. It is now a second-generation company with Bryan Dixon residing as president & CEO and Jeff Dixon as president of IT. Bryan and Jeff both got their start early at RK Dixon - Bryan initially doing accounting and Jeff starting up the IT business. The transition from one generation of Dixons to another has been flawless and their success as a company mirrors the Dixons' strong and solid business ethics.

During its 25-year history, RK Dixon has grown steadily and continued to offer advanced technology in the areas of copying, printing, IT solutions and pure drinking water systems. Throughout the years, they have expanded their business by adding several new product lines and negotiated three successful corporate acquisitions, increasing their market to seven locations in Iowa and Illinois.

RK Dixon has created unique programs such as Make My Non-Profit Run Better (http://www. rkdixon. com/NonProfit2008/main. asp), which provides office technology makeovers for non-profits in the communities they serve, and Operation Green, a campaign designed to help the company and its employees focus on how they can reduce their carbon footprint.

Over the past 25 years, RK Dixon has continuously shown its commitment to customers by matching the best product with their customers' needs. They partner with a variety of the industry's most respected technological companies to help reduce costs and provide solutions ensuring that "Everything Just Runs Better."

Moving into the future, RK Dixon will continue to grow their business through healthy acquisitions and more diversified offerings. They will focus on their mission to provide businesses with unique and innovative solutions and superior customer service. The Dixon family would like to thank all their customers and employees for the past 25 years.

According to SCORE (a resource of the Small Business Administration) only two-thirds of small businesses survive at least two years, and only 29 percent make it to ten years. RK Dixon, a family owned company, has succeeded because of its commitment to the customer and its focus on exceeding expectations.

For more information on RK Dixon, please visit rkdixon. com (http://www. rkdixon. com/company/company. asp) or contact Sue Hill at 309.692.3300.

About RK Dixon - RK Dixon streamlines operations and reduces document costs for small to large offices. It provides a broad range of products and services for virtually every critical office application, from copying systems by Canon and Lanier, to integrated computer networks by Microsoft® Gold Certified technicians. This 25-year-old company retains a highly-trained and tenured staff and provides its customers with products boasting over 99 percent uptime. RK Dixon serves 81 counties in Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin with office locations in Davenport and Cedar Rapids, Iowa and Bloomington, Champaign, Peoria, Rockford, and Springfield, Ill. For more information, visit rkdixon. com (http://www. rkdixon. com/company/company_locations. asp) or call 563.344.9100 or 800.553.0020.

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Driven by Customer Feedback, BodyMedia, Inc. Announces Major Enhancements and Brand Change for GoWear Fit

• New product offers improved Activity Manager functionality, navigation and data upload capabilities • New branding platform reflects leadership position in body monitoring industry

Pittsburgh, PA (Vocus) November 18, 2009

BodyMedia, Inc., the pioneer in developing wearable body monitoring systems, has announced significant upgrades to GoWear fit, its complete weight management system that monitors how an individual’s body responds to activity and helps consumers tailor their diet, exercise and sleep to live a healthier lifestyle. As part of an initiative to leverage the brand equity BodyMedia has built over the past 11 years, the company also announced that it is rebranding its GoWear fit product as BodyMedia® FIT.

The new upgrades to the Activity Manager and Armband uploading function deliver a faster and more personalized experience for current users and for those seeking a system to help them lose weight or better understand and manage their overall health.

Delivering real time knowledge of their body, BodyMedia FIT helps users achieve their weight management goals and stay motivated. BodyMedia understands that losing weight is difficult and meeting goals on your own is hard. The company developed its accurate, clinically validated, and patented multi-sensor technology specifically to bring honesty and clarity to their customers’ efforts.

“Our customers are passionate about their quest to live a healthier lifestyle and have given BodyMedia tremendously useful feedback on our product,” commented Chris Robins, Chief Executive Officer of BodyMedia. “We have listened to their thoughts and incorporated important changes and innovations into the newest version of our Activity Manager, which will make it faster and easier to use.”

The BodyMedia FIT 3.0 enhancements include:

A redesigned nutrition tracking interface with expanded and intuitive capabilities:

Multiple ways to track nutrition, such as daily caloric estimates, meal logging and nutrition assessments; The ability to plan meals ahead, move foods from meal to meal, and more easily enter food items from nutrition labels; Better visibility into items that impact daily food choices, such as running calorie consumption and individual meal status; The ability to view and sort food search results by name, caloric value, or nutrients; An expanded food database, the ability to find foods by brand or category, and improved search result relevancy.

A clearer, simplified progress dashboard:

Users can now track their status accurately and quickly and get answers faster with click through charts and improved navigation.

Faster, easier data uploads with BodyMedia SYNC:

Uploading data from the system’s Armband can now be done in one simple step: plug it in and BodyMedia SYNC automatically launches the Activity Manager and shows battery status.

To enjoy these updates, current GoWear fit users just need to follow the prompts they receive when they first go to http://www. gowearfit. com or http://www. bodymedia. com on or after today. To address any questions current users might have, they can refer to the links below or contact BodyMedia’s customer service desk.

Http://www. bodymedia. com/Support-Help/Help/Online-Help

Http://www. bodymedia. com/Support-Help/Whats-New/3-0-BodyMedia-FIT-Activity-Manager

As part of an initiative to leverage the brand equity BodyMedia has built over the past 11 years, the company is rebranding its GoWear fit product as BodyMedia FIT. This latest version is based on the same industry-leading technology that BodyMedia has come to be recognized for. In addition to the product updates listed above, users will notice sleek design changes in the Activity Manager that reflect the refreshed brand. Consumers can still purchase GoWear fit at http://www. bodymedia. com, Amazon. com, Drugstore. com and CVS. com. Current GoWear fit users will not be affected by the brand change.

About BodyMedia, Inc.

Founded in 1999, BodyMedia, Inc. is the pioneer in developing wearable body monitoring systems designed to help people lose weight, improve performance, and live a healthier lifestyle. Our patented multi-sensor technology has been adapted for a variety of markets – consumers, health and fitness clubs, corporate wellness programs, and healthcare practitioners – enabling us to deliver clinically validated products that monitor calorie expenditure, amount of physical activity, number of steps taken, and sleep efficiency. No other comfortable, convenient, continuous body-monitoring products can measure physical activity and calories burned with BodyMedia’s greater-than-90% accuracy. For more information, visit http://www. bodymedia. com or call 412-288-9901.

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Advantec Launches New Wellness Offering

Advantec will launch a new wellness offering at a series of HR Forums entitled Workforce Trends: Change the Way You Do Business. Advantec President Dianna Sheppard will speak on the top 3 mega trends that are shaping the business climate in America.

Tampa, FL (PRWEB) June 2, 2008

Advantec, a leading HR, payroll and benefits (http://www. advantec-hr. com) solutions provider for small and mid-sized companies, will launch a new wellness offering to clients and prospects on June 5, 2008. This new offering is part of Advantec’s intent to address employer and employee needs with a comprehensive, consumer-centric employee benefits solution, available through Advantec’s co-employment model.

Advantec will launch this offering at a series of HR Forums (http://www. advantec-hr. com/events/hrforum) entitled Workforce Trends: Change the Way You Do Business. At the HR Forums, Advantec will lead a group of clients, prospects and referral partners in an interactive presentation on the top 3 mega trends that are shaping the business climate in America.

Advantec President Dianna Sheppard and other members of Advantec’s senior team will focus on strategies to address these trends including:

•Attracting and Retaining the Right Talent in Tomorrow's World

•Managing Productivity in a Do More with Less Economy

•Improving Employee Health to Reduce Health Care Risks

Attendees will also have the opportunity to hear Dr. Steven Aldana, a nationally renowned scientist, author and speaker offer a provocative presentation on Improving the Bottom Line with Wellness and a Worksite Culture of Health. Dr. Aldana’s most recent book, The Culprit and The Cure is currently being used by over 4,500 companies and corporations in an effort to boost productivity and reduce employee related health expenses.

“We are very excited to launch this holistic solution to the employee benefits problem and are looking forward to sharing Dr. Aldana’s vision for the health of American workers, “ stated Dianna Sheppard.

Advantec’s HR Forums will take place on June 5th in Tampa, Florida, on June 10th in Houston, Texas and on June 11th in Dallas, Texas. For more information or to register for these events, visit the HR Forum Registration (http://www. advantec-hr. com/events/hrforum) page.

About Advantec®

Advantec delivers HR, Payroll and Benefit services for small and mid-sized companies. Advantec helps clients, mitigate risk, improve processes and attract and retain top talent. Since its start in 1998, Advantec has grown to support over 800 clients, nationwide. For more information please visit www. advantec-hr. com or call 1-877-ADVANTEC.

Note to editors: Advantec is a registered trademark of Agency Solutions International, Inc.

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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Recent Shoppers Face Health Insurance Obstacles

EasyToInsureME announces a new solution to overcome the obstacle of health insurance.

Miami, FL (PRWEB) February 1, 2010

EasyToInsureME announces a new solution to overcome the obstacle of health insurance. Health care reform is going no where and citizens are very afraid. This past week states like Virginia and Pennsylvania are already making laws to "opt out" of health care reform. This will allow citizens of these states to freely engage in the individual market as more and more Americans take on the responsibility of buying individual health insurance (http://www. easytoinsureme. com/individual-health-insurance. html). Recent observations show that people searching for health insurance on the internet do not buy online. Instead shoppers for health insurance will get health insurance quotes online and then will call a broker or agent seeking more information.

Problems occur when there is no one to talk to regarding health insurance options, participating doctors, and the different carriers available on the internet. People looking to buy health insurance (http://www. easytoinsureme. com/) wish to be contacted. If there was someone to talk to, the shopper can make an informed decision about the best health insurance plan for an individual or family. Solving the shopper dilemma: “I need more information.”

Solutions to the problem of needing more information are found on a website that provides health insurance quotes (http://www. easytoinsureme. com/health-insurance-quotes. php) and trusted advisers to get the advice and counsel needed to select the best plan for the current situation. Online health insurance quotes come from all carriers at the most updated rates and having a phone number in clear view at the top of the website allows for any questions to be answered immediately.

CEO of EasyToInsureME. com Chad Levin states, "As we encounter many shoppers everyday, the number one concern is that they have someone to talk to before a purchase. As many find it very confusing to shop for heath insurance. We have taken this into consideration and combined the two, an easy to use health insurance shopping website along with live assistance from real people. When shoppers call us they will always get a real person and will never have to press 1 for English or 2 for Spanish."

About EasyToInsureME

EasyToInsureME online health insurance quotes (http://www. easytoinsureme. com/health-insurance-quotes. php) is a completely client focused company that allows access to live agents at any time. The company is here to represent the client and has a 95% approval rate for newly submitted health insurance applications. The mission of http://www. EasyToInsureME. com/ (http://www. EasyToInsureME. com/) is to help Americans find affordable health insurance in the easiest way possible. Agents do this by shopping all carriers and plans available to the client and picking out four plans that will provide the best benefits at the lowest cost. Then agents send an easy to read side by side comparison of these plans through email to make the process as simplified as possible.

EasyToInsureME takes an active role in the online community and through social networking. Web surfers will be able to find the company on over 300,000 different websites including facebook, myspace, linked in, twitter, prweb, yahoo and many others.

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Best Non-Profit Web Site Trends Detailed in New Report from the Web Marketing Association

Updated Web Marketing Association' Internet Standards Assessment Report Includes Historical Data Derived from a Decade of Hosting Internet Award Competition, WebAwards, and Provides Best Practices for Non-Profit Web Design

West Simsbury, CT (PRWEB) March 26, 2009

WebAward. org (http://www. webaward. org/bestwebsites. asp? utm_source=PRWeb&utm_medium=release&utm_term=NonProfit&utm_content=ISAR&utm_campaign=WebAward) - The Web Marketing Association, host of leading web site awards competition WebAwards, released the 2009 Internet Standards Assessment Report (ISAR) to help the non-profit industry learn to create more effective and engaging web sites.

"As the standard of excellence for web sites continues to increase, consumers (and WebAward judges) are increasingly picky about what they consider to be an effective web site," said William Rice, president of the Web Marketing Association, Inc. "One of the driving factors in non-profit Web development, as in all industries, is budgets. Non-profit Web sites scored lowest in use of technology and innovation which may be a direct indication of the difficulties many non-profits have justifying Web budgets when many have difficulties maintaining existing programs for constituents."

The WebAwards competition judges non-profit web sites on seven criteria that combined create award-winning web sites:

Design Innovation Content Technology Interactivity Copywriting Ease of use

The non-profit category is, by far, the most competitive in the WebAwards competition; however, non-profits as an industry fall consistently below the overall ISAR index year after year. They miss the 5-year criteria benchmark in each of the criteria areas. As an industry, they are strongest in content and copywriting. Due to

Their non-profit budget limitations, they typically earn low scores in innovation and technology.

The 2008 WebAward for Best Non-Profit web site went to Reading Is Fundamental Leading to Reading.

Other past winners include:

2007 Arnold Worldwide for Singing Cowpoke 2006 Bridge Worldwide for VH1 Save The Music/P&G brandSAVER 2005 IconNicholson for Project Rebirth web site 2004 I. T.UNITED Corporation for WWF Children of the Earth 2003 I-SITE and AWARE foundation for Teen Health Talk 2002 Interactive Knowledge for Corridos Sin Fronteras

A complete list of past winners can be found at non-profit. webaward. org.

Companies and organizations wishing to have their non-profit Web site evaluated against the ISAR Index and be considered for a WebAward, which can help boost a Web site's credibility and marketing efforts, can learn more at WebAward. org (http://www. webaward. org/bestwebsites. asp? utm_source=PRWeb&utm_medium=release&utm_term=NonProfit&utm_content=ISAR&utm_campaign=WebAward).

To request your copy of the 2009 WebAward ISAR report, please visit: WebAward. org (http://www. webaward. org/isar_report. asp)

The Internet Standards Assessment report and the 2009 WebAwards are sponsored by the following leading organizations: Burst Media, B2B Magazine, BGT Partners, PRWeb, AllBusiness, ExactTarget, ad:tech conferences, NewsUSA, Microsoft PhizzPop, Internet World, AllBusiness, Search Engine Strategies, Webmaster Radio, Rovion, and Website Magazine.

2009 WebAward Call for Entries

The Web Marketing Association is now accepting entries into its 13th annual international WebAward Competition. The WebAwards is the standards-defining competition that sets industry benchmarks that the Internet Standards Assessment report is based upon. The non-profit industry represents an important category in the WebAward competition, and the Web Marketing Association will again be honoring the Best Non-Profit Web site of 2009. The deadline for entry is May 29, 2009 and the WebAward Web site is located at WebAward. org (http://www. webaward. org/bestwebsites. asp? utm_source=PRWeb&utm_medium=release&utm_term=NonProfit&utm_content=ISAR&utm_campaign=WebAward).

About the WebAwards

Now in its 13th year, the annual international WebAwards competition sets the standard of excellence in 96 industry categories by evaluating Web sites and defining benchmarks based on the seven essential criteria of successful Web site development. The goal of the Web Marketing Association, sponsor of the WebAwards, is to provide a forum to recognize the people and organizations responsible for developing some of the most effective Web sites on the Internet today. Entrants benefit from a Web site assessment by a professional judging panel and the marketing opportunities presented to an award-winning Web site. For more information, visit WebAward. org (http://www. webaward. org/bestwebsites. asp? utm_source=PRWeb&utm_medium=release&utm_term=NonProfit&utm_content=ISAR&utm_campaign=WebAward).

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Air Force Awards ORBITEC $750,000 to Develop Hypercosm 3D Casual Games for Preventive Medical Instruction

After a successful demonstration of its Hypercosm 3D interactive casual web-based game platform, Orbital Technologies Corporation (ORBITEC) was awarded $750,000 by the U. S. Air Force to expand its "Furlough Frenzy!" game into a complete learning environment for proactive preventive medical instruction.

Madison, WI (PRWEB) October 1, 2009

What do using grenades to kill cockroaches, cleaning toilets, and simulating drunk driving all have in common? They are all scenes of a prototype casual game developed by ORBITEC (http://www. orbitec. com) using its Hypercosm 3D software to teach Air Force personnel topics in proactive preventive medicine.

After a successful demonstration of its 3D interactive casual web-based game platform, Orbital Technologies Corporation (ORBITEC) was awarded $750,000 by the U. S. Air Force to expand its "Furlough Frenzy!" game into a complete learning environment for proactive preventive medical instruction.

Web-based casual games have become more common for teaching to internet-savvy students that once required lecturing and textbooks. "It's about engaging the user in the material," said Hypercosm's founder, Abe Megahed. "A game helps maximize the learning experience because there are elements of interactivity and competition."

ORBITEC's $750,000 contract from the Air Force Research Laboratory will complete a game with the working title of Furlough Frenzy" as it follows an Airman trying to navigate successfully through environmental and occupational hazards, nutrition puzzles, motor vehicle accident prevention and responsible personal health choices - all in the quest to win a two-week trip home.

The company will use its Hypercosm 3D software along with Autodesk's 3ds Max to produce the game's web-based content. The final product will include multiplayer capabilities so social interaction and competition will further engage the players. The company is also working on multiple mobile platforms as an alternative form of game delivery.

Dr. Gerald Higgins, Chief Innovation Officer at The Center for Medical Informatics, Washington Hospital Center, MedStar Health, will work together with ORBITEC to provide medical oversight and simulation expertise. Dr. Higgins is a recognized leader in the field of simulation and games for health, and the former U. S. Vice President of Resach and Development, Laerdal Medical Corporation and Director of the Digital Human Project for the Federation of American Scientists.

COMPANY EXPERTISE

ORBITEC's Hypercosm software focuses on 3D interactive content creation and tools for high fidelity simulation, training and web-based 3D visualization. Their content development team is backed with a suite of software tools, including:

Hypercosm Teleporter for efficiently exporting 3D models and animations from 3ds Max™ or Google SketchUp™ into Hypercosm web deployable applets, evaluation available at the Teleporter site (http://www. hypercosm. com/download/teleporter/index. html). Hypercosm Studio, a text-based authoring environment for scripting unlimited behaviors and user interactions into 3D content, evaluation available at the Studio site (http://www. hypercosm. com/download/studio/index. html). Hypercosm Player, a free viewer that integrates with standard web browsers for displaying Hypercosm applets, downloadable from the Player site (http://www. hypercosm. com/download/player/index. html). ABOUT HYPERCOSM:

Hypercosm creates products and technologies to enable highly interactive 3D simulations for training, education and design visualization. Hypercosm's patented approach to encoding object geometry and behaviors results in low file size simulations that can be delivered over the web practically and effectively, even with low bandwidth connections. Hypercosm products and services have provided web-based interactive astronaut training, assembly instructions, familiarization training, science education aids and 3D architectural designs. For more information and to view solution demonstrations, visit us online at hypercosm. com (http://www. hypercosm. com).

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Wizzard Software Awarded FSS Contract For Talking Pill Bottle

Wizzard Software (OTCBB: WIZD) announced today they have been approved for a Federal Supply Schedule (FSS) contract.

PITTSBURGH, PA (PRWEB) July 15, 2004

Promotes Gene Franz to General Manager of Solutions and Channels. Wizzard Software (OTCBB: WIZD) announced today they have been approved for a Federal Supply Schedule (FSS) contract. This contract allows access to MedivoxRx Technologies' Talking Bottle by all Veterans Administration and Military healthcare facilities; Indian Health organizations; and other government-funded healthcare facilities.

The FSS contract, number V797P-4677A, is for items awarded under Open and Continuous Solicitation Number RFP-797-FSS-99-0025-R3. It is effective from June 17, 2004 to June 16, 2009. By utilizing the FSS contract, government purchasing processes are streamlined saving the agencies valuable time and money.

"Rex," The Talking Bottle, allows a patient to simply push a button on the bottle and hear their name, prescription type, dosage instructions, drug warnings and other information read in a clear, friendly voice. When the Talking Bottle is loaded by a pharmacist, the audio instructions are the same as those that appear in written form on the label. This product assists pharmacies in complying with stringent prescription medication regulations by having the dosage instructions and other critical information read "out-loud" to patients in addition to providing the instructions on the standard label. This "audio label" helps to ensure that a patient fully understands what the medication is, how often to take it and when to refill the prescription or discontinue its use. The Journal of the American Medical Association reported that medication errors and/or adverse drug events kill an estimated 100,000 persons annually with the inability to read and understand medication instructions being a significant contributing factor.

In addition to assisting pharmacies with their compliance initiatives, Rex helps meet the needs of an aging population as people lose their sight, cognitive functionality and physical abilities. The estimated annual cost of blindness to the federal government is $4 billion. According to the Blinded Veterans Association, (BVA) there are over 100,000 blind and visually impaired men and women veterans throughout the United States, and that number is projected to reach 150,000 by the year 2010. The BVA estimates that a blind or a significantly visually impaired individual takes an average of 7 to 10 daily medications. The National Eye Institute reports that there are more than 1 million blind people in the United States today and that figure is projected to reach 1.8 million by 2020.

Further, Wizzard announced today the promotion of Gene Franz to General Manager of Wizzard's newly formed Solutions and Channels group. The immediate focus of the Solutions and Channels group will be the recently acquired MedivoxRx Technologies, Inc. subsidiary and its Talking Pill Bottle solution.

Mr. Franz came to Wizzard in 2002 after spending over 30 years both as a technician and sales executive in national and international consulting organizations. While serving as a manager at the American Medical Association he consulted to the National Institutes of Health. As part of that work, he co-authored a book titled: Reclassification of Physicians, 1968, which was focused on the gathering and analysis of information on the distribution of physicians in the United States.

About Wizzard Software Â

Founded in 1996, Wizzard Software has become a leader in the speech technology application development market. Wizzard architects solutions to business problems using its expertise in consulting, speech development tools and building speech based applications for the Desktop and Internet. Wizzard has achieved global recognition because of its expertise with voice communication whether it is via PC or telephone. Wizzard's successes have lead to expanding opportunities in both the government and commercial sectors. In April of 2004, Wizzard acquired the Pittsford, NY company MedivoxRx Technologies, Inc. Founded in 2000, MedivoxRx is the originator of "Rex", the talking prescription pill bottle, which "talks" to the patient, allowing them to distinguish what type of medication is in the bottle and hear information on dosage and refill instructions. Additional information can be found at www. rxtalks. com. More information on Wizzard can be found in Wizzard's Investor's Corner www. wizzardsoftware. com.

Legal NoticeÂ

Legal Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: "Forward-looking Statements" as defined in the Private Securities litigation Reform Act of 1995 may be included in this news release. These statements relate to future events or our future financial performance. These statements are only predictions and may differ materially from actual future results or events. We disclaim any intention or obligation to revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise. There are important risk factors that could cause actual results to differ from those contained in forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to risks associated with changes in general economic and business conditions, actions of our competitors, the extent to which we are able to develop new services and markets for our services, the time and expense involved in such development activities, the level of demand and market acceptance of our services, changes in our business strategies and acts of terror against the United States.

IR Contact:

Arthur Douglas and Associates

Art Batson

407/478-1120

Wizzard Contact:

Danielle Lewis

412/621-0902

Danielle@wizzardsoftware. com

PR Contact:

KPR, Inc.

Barbara Evans or Dave Kaye

818/368-8212

Barbara@kprinc. com or dave@kprinc. com

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Lyme Disease Database Provides Cutting Edge Medical News for Lyme Symptom Sufferers

New research database offers instant access to articles on cutting edge protocol for the prevention and treatment of Lyme Disease. People get direct access to information about the latest scientific discoveries that can help them heal.

San Luis Obispo, CA (PRWEB) April 17, 2006

Health advocates have announced the http://www. lyme-disease-research-database. com (http://www. lyme-disease-research-database. com) (Lyme Disease Research Database) web site.

The site provides immediate access to dozens of articles aiming to educate sufferers of the disease, as well as anyone interested in learning how to cope with symptoms and treat Lyme disease. Readers receive up to the minute news and information about the latest cutting edge research on the treatment and healing of Lyme. Articles include Lyme experts' findings, including conventional pharmaceutical approaches and integrative therapies.

One reader emailed, “Lyme is a frightening disease. Doctors can mistake your symptoms for other auto-immune deficiency conditions, like Lupus or MS.” LDRD researchers say that experts in treating patients with Lyme disease understand that symptoms vary from person to person and can mimic over two hundred other diseases. Lyme literate doctors encourage their patients to get educated about their healing choices.

The LDRD provides:

A reference place to learn about Lyme literate doctors' newest research.

Immediate access to help patients broaden their treatment choices.

Interviews with wellness experts and medical doctors on healing from chronic Lyme.

Treatment choices for Lyme patients are often confusing. Healing from Lyme can be complicated by the fact that the disease is so frequently misdiagnosed, researchers say. Protocol that works well early on may not be appropriate for the patient who has been misdiagnosed for a number of months, or even years.

“Treatment and healing comes down to being the patient's responsibility,” said another Lyme patient. “LDRD helps me stay on top of the latest Lyme expert information, so I know what to ask my doctor.” The site also includes interviews with nationally known medical experts speaking about the role of diet, nutrition and lifestyle as they impact healing from chronic Lyme disease.

For additional information on the Lyme Disease Research Database, visit www. lyme-disease-research-database. com. Access to the cutting edge news from experts on Lyme disease is available immediately.

About LDRD (lyme-disease-research-database. com):

Private health and wellness advocates have been gathering information on conventional and integrative approaches to heal from Lyme disease since 2005.

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Online Mannequin Retailer Builds a Better Butt (Bellingham, WA) September 28, 2006

With the Adult Industry in mind, MannequinStore. com unveils anatomically-correct, voluptuous buttock forms for displaying thongs, panties and swimwear. Not for the shy, these mannequin forms “have it all,” and are expected to pay for themselves many times over in increased sales.

Bellingham, WA (PRWEB) September 30, 2006

Just in time for the International Lingerie Show in Las Vegas, MannequinStore. com unveiled a new line of anatomically-correct, full-round butt forms specifically intended for displaying women’s sexy lingerie, thongs and panties, and men’s underwear and swimwear.

Retailers can utilize these fully-sculpted, partial mannequins (waist to top of thigh) with either a stylish tabletop display or hang them unobtrusively, flat-wall style. This truly unique and portable mode of demonstration also serves as an ideal resolution for globetrotting sales people, trade shows and business presentations.

“Current underwear forms have flat butts and little, if any, detail,” said Laurel Burke, MannequinStore’s designer. "These forms will sell more underwear.”

In addition, Burke designed a headless, upper torso-only mannequin specifically created with breast cancer survivors in mind. The elegant, single-breasted female torso is expected to be widely employed by specialized clothing retailers and the health care industry to demonstrate specially designed post-mastectomy bras.

The new line is available online exclusively at www. MannequinStore. com. For more information contact Laurel Burke at 360-527-2202.

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Ever Ready in the Saint Anthony Hospital Emergency Room

In the recent months at the Saint Anthony Hospital Emergency Room, many new faces have joined the regular staff. Saint Anthony Hospital, located at 2875 West 19th Street, Chicago, welcomes ten new physicians who come from medical schools across the country. The Department of Emergency Medicine is under the leadership of Nancy Badrov, MD, Medical Director and Julio Silva, MD, Executive Director. Dr. Silva is also the Associate Clinical Chairman of the Emergency Department at Rush University Medical Center.

(PRWEB) October 23, 2004

Â“ We value the dedication and support we see everyday from our new physicians and staff. All of these physicians are ER residency trained and share the same insight on healthcare and patient satisfaction. Our partnerships with the respected Medical schools and hospitals, allow us to bring in highly qualified physicians, explained Â“, Kathleen K. DeVine, President and CEO, Saint Anthony Hospital.

Saint Anthony Hospital welcomes the following physicians to the ER, Nancy Badrov, MD, Julio Silva, MD, Reggie Thomas, MD and Dorian Woods, MD, from University of Illinois at Chicago. Daniel Belmont, MD, Chicago Medical School, while Thomas Eiseman, MD, and Elizabeth Neale, MD, both are from Rush Medical College in Chicago. Abhilasha Jones, MD, State University New York at Buffalo, Joseph Lachica, MD, Southern Illinois University and Sarah Margulies, MD, Saint George University in Grenada.

Â“ For many years, Saint Anthony Hospital has been providing bilingual-bicultural services to its patients. This community relies on our ER to treat all their healthcare needs no matter how minor or serious. The addition of our new ER group allows us to provide the best, safe and reliable careÂ”, added Sandy Gehl, Emergency Room Director, Saint Anthony Hospital.

Complimenting the new ER physicians are the highly qualified nurses, midwives and staff, many of whom have been associated with Saint Anthony Hospital for decades. Loyalty and personable touch is the signature mark of the Saint Anthony Hospital emergency department. The ER sees thousands of patients each year, as it is the primary location for the community to utilize daily, from many health problems such as colds, flu, injury, infection, asthma, etc.

Through leadership and commitment, the hospital invests its time and resources on the safety, accessibility and security of its patients. Saint Anthony Hospital welcomes the physicians to the staff and takes pride in the family oriented care that the community expects.

For over 100 years, physicians and staff of Saint Anthony Hospital have provided medical care, social services, and community outreach programs to Chicago's underserved communities of Pilsen and Little Village. Today, Saint Anthony Hospital is known for its partnerships providing a full continuum of care from prevention and outreach to subspecialty services, to meet the needs of the community. Saint Anthony Hospital is the only Chicago area member of Ascension Health, the largest not-for-profit Catholic Health system in the United States.

Saint Anthony Hospital is a member of Ascension Health, the nation's largest Catholic and nonprofit health system with more than 100,000 associates serving in 67 acute care hospitals and dozens of related facilities in 20 states and the District of Columbia. Consistent with its mission to serve all people with special attention to those who are poor and vulnerable, Ascension Health provides clinically excellent care with an emphasis on innovation and a focus on transforming the healthcare industry.

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For media inquiries, contact Jane Canepa/Rozana Audisho at The Eventors, Inc. (312) 944-6667 or Veronica Venturini, Director, Community Relations, Saint Anthony Hospital, (773) 484-4395. Visit www. saintanthonyhospital. org

EditorÂ’s Note: Saint Anthony Hospital is spelled out and not abbreviated. Saint Anthony Hospital is located at 2875 West 19th Street in Chicago.

Holistic Medical Center Gives Tips on Avoiding the Holiday Blues

Ways of Beating SAD that Go Beyond Light Therapy and Melanin

New York, NY (Vocus) November 16, 2010

Patients Medical, a leading integrative medical center in New York City, gives practical and useful tips on beating Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and the holiday blues this fall and winter in the webinar, “6 Ways to Avoid the Holiday Blues” this Thursday, November 18th at 6:30pm Eastern Time. Dr. Gulati will discuss scientifically-proven methods of staving off SAD. Dr. Gulati will also be answering questions from participants.

“This is a very challenging time of year for overall health,” says Dr. Rashmi Gulati, Medical Director at Patients Medical. “Our immune systems may be dealing with seasonal colds and flu already, so SAD symptoms such as depression and insomnia compound the problem. People who normally feel healthy during the spring and summer suddenly don’t feel like themselves during the fall and winter.”

36 million Americans are affected by SAD, which is about 4-6% of the population. An additional 10-20% experience milder symptoms. 80% of the affected population is women, mostly in their 20’s to 40’s. There does not seem to be a particular ethnic or racial segment that is most affected, however those who live in Northern hemispheres tend to be more susceptible.

“These feelings of depression and sadness come amidst a season of festivities. Many different cultures celebrate during the fall and winter seasons. These activities can be difficult for patients with SAD. They don’t feel like joining in. If they do participate, they may feel like they are not genuinely a part of the group, which makes them feel worse,” explains Dr. Gulati.

During the webinar, Dr. Gulati and her staff at Patients Medical will talk about their 6 favorite recommendations for avoiding SAD. Dr. Gulati assures that these tips go beyond the standard light and melatonin therapies. “While these typical recommendations are effective for those who already experience SAD, I prefer to prevent the condition. After all, prevention is the best cure.”

Dr. Gulati is confident that these tips may surprise participants. “Most people have no idea that their diet and lifestyle habits have anything to do with how they feel, but we have seen a direct correlation between making simple shifts in these areas and profound improvement in overall health.”

With over a decade of experience, Dr. Rashmi Gulati is a leader in internal and integrative medicine, having appeared as a medical expert on Good Morning America, CNN, FOX 5 and WCBS in addition to a variety of national publications, speaking about thyroid disease, hormonal health, cancer and holistic medicine.

About Patients Medical

Patients Medical (http://www. patientsmedical. com) is a unique integrative medicine center in Manhattan that combines the best of traditional and holistic medicine with modern technology to provide comprehensive care. Established in 1974, the center employs a multi-disciplinary staff including board certified internists, licensed practitioners and nutritionists. The practice specializes in diagnosing the root cause of an ailment, then healing the whole person with personalized protocols that draw upon ancient healing techniques alongside Western Medial perspectives. Patients Medical offers free seminars each month on bioidentical hormones, weight loss, thyroid, chronic fatigue, nutrition and more.

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Awake In America Re-distributes Booklet on Sleep, Sleep Disorders

Awake In America, a non-profit organization focused on sleep and sleep disorders, is making a major distribution push of a new booket about healthy sleep habits.

Philadelphia, PA (PRWEB) March 16, 2006

Awake In America, a national non-profit organization focused on sleep and sleep disorders, is making a major distribution push of a new booket about healthy sleep habits.

The 66-page booket, Your Guide to Healthy Sleep, was prepared by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), and touches on topics such as:

"How Much Sleep Is Enough?" "What Disrupts Sleep?" "Is Snoring A Problem?" Information on the most common sleep disorders.

Michele Narcavage, president of Awake In America, said, "We're dedicated to ensuring people get accurate information about sleep and sleep disorders, which is the chief reason behind our re-distributing this booklet."

In addition to the booklet being available on the Awake In America website, Ms. Narcavage noted the booklet will be available in a variety of CDs and other packages the non-profit organization distributes around the country to physicians and other health care providers, patients, and local coordinators.

"It's important to be sure everyone has up-to-date information at their fingertips, and this is one more resource we are pushing to all agencies and organizations we work with in a variety of ways," Ms. Narcavage added.

Continueing mission

Being a non-profit organization, Awake In America is able to continue its operations through the generous donations of individuals and corporate sponsors. Individuals may donations by check or money order to Awake In America, Inc., PO Box 51601, Philadelphia, PA 19115-6601. Donations may be made online, through a secure donation page at http://www. AwakeInAmerica. org/Donate. shtml (http://www. AwakeInAmerica. org/Donate. shtml). Other options for donations are also listed.

Corporate donors may find more information about sponsorship and donations at http://www. AwakeInAmerica. org/Admin/SponsorUs. shtml (http://www. AwakeInAmerica. org/Admin/SponsorUs. shtml).

As a 501(c)(3) (national non-profit) organization, all donations made to Awake In America are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law, and donation receipts will be sent to all donors. For specifics about your tax situation, please consult your tax advisor.

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Lifelong Grand Island Resident Offering Health Coaching Through New Holistic Health, Wellness &amp; Fitness Practice

Lifelong Grand Island Resident Offering Health Coaching Through New Holistic Health, Wellness & Fitness Practice

Gardner Takes a Whole-Body Approach Through Nutrition Life Spa

Grand Island, NE (PRWEB) November 9, 2010

Search for “dieting statistics” on the Internet and you’ll find a lot. For example:

-- 25 percent of American men and 45 percent of American women are on a diet on any given day (Smolak, 1996).

-- 95 percent of all dieters will regain their lost weight in one to five years (Grodstein, et al., 1996).

-- 35 percent of “normal dieters” progress to pathological dieting (Shisslak & Crago, 1995).

-- Americans spend over $40 billion on dieting and diet related products each year (Smolak, 1996).

Despite statistics like these, it doesn’t have to be hard to achieve optimal health and wellness. Grand Island native Tracy Gardner discovered the secrets to maintaining her weight and optimal health in her thirties and forties. And now, Gardner is opening Nutrition Life Spa to help others who are experiencing similar challenges but are tired of fad diets, gimmicks, unhealthy methods… and especially going it alone.

Located in LOA Fitness for Women at 2441 North Diers Avenue in Grand Island, Nebraska, Nutrition Life Spa (NLS) is a holistic health, wellness and fitness practice offering personalized health coaching programs and services in person, via phone and over the Internet. While most traditional diets and health practitioners dwell on calories, carbs, fats, proteins, restrictions and lists of good and bad foods, the NLS whole-body approach instead focuses is on bio-individuality - or one’s unique attributes - and integrates the many interconnected areas of life, including nutrition, physical activity, relationships, spirituality and career satisfaction.

“Making lasting changes to health, wellness and weight loss goes way beyond the food we eat,” said Gardner, a holistic health & nutrition counselor, certified natural health practitioner, certified personal trainer and graduate of the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. “Through Nutrition Life Spa I will help my clients discover how all the aspects of their lives are affecting them, provide clear direction to reach their personal goals, and offer the support and mentoring often that’s often the difference-maker in this process.”

That support and mentoring, or health coaching, is key to creating sustainable changes to health and wellness. Instead of traditional teaching, advising or prescribing, health coaching, one of today’s fastest growing innovations in health, wellness and nutrition, is focused on engaging guidance for both emotional and behavioral factors.

Gardner offers her health and nutrition counseling through a variety of a la carte services, including Tracy’s “Get Fit Fast” Evaluation, Resting Metabolic Rate Testing, Vitamin and Supplement Recommendations, Corporate Wellness Programs and office and phone consultations. In addition, Gardner offers multi-week programs for those wanting to make a more long-term commitment.

“Losing weight is hard enough without having to come up with a plan on your own and then hold yourself accountable,” Gardner said. “I’ve studied all the major dietary theories and can help my clients with challenges like weight loss, weight gain, maintenance, emotional eating, sports nutrition, prenatal/postnatal fitness or feeding an active family through motivation, inspiration and education.”

To learn more about Tracy and Nutrition Life Spa visit online at http://www. NutritionLifeSpa. com. Sign up to receive the free monthly newsletter on holistic health, nutrition, fitness and weight loss information and notifications about upcoming free tele-classes and live events.

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Wills Necessary for All Estates, Not Just Rich and Famous

These tips from Bills. com can help anyone get ready to prepare a will

San Mateo, Calif. (PRWEB) March 19, 2008

Leona Helmsley's will specified that her dog, Trouble, would receive $12 million for its care after her death. Former Supreme Court Chief Justice Warren Burger jotted a short will that overlooked the matter of estate taxes, costing his heirs thousands of dollars. Richard Nixon left behind specific instructions on how to handle his personal papers. But Bills. com co-founder and co-CEO Brad Stroh notes that while famous people sometimes are equally famous for their unusual wills, everybody needs a will to provide for the handling of their estate.

"A will makes important provisions for how to handle an estate after its owner's death -- and an estate can be as simple as a bank account, a car or a home," Stroh said. "If you do not establish a will, the state decides how to handle your possessions and responsibilities, and legal provisions might not be your first choice."

A will names the executor who will take care of an estate; a guardian for minor children; and a trustee who will manage any money or property left to minor children, or in some cases, others. A will also can specify that particular items be left to certain people.

For those who die intestate, or without a will, the state makes all these decisions. The courts choose a guardian for children and divide possessions according to state law. Laws vary by state, but generally, a married person's possessions would go to a spouse (or, in some cases, a domestic partner) and children; an unmarried person's belongings would go to parents and siblings. Friends, unmarried partners and charities would receive nothing. For those with no living relatives, all possessions would go to the state.

To plan for their family's future, Stroh advises individuals to consider these steps:

1. Make a will. A simple will typically costs a few hundred dollars as drafted by an attorney. Those in dire financial straights might consider pro bono legal services, Stroh said. Several companies offer "write your own will" forms, but it generally is best to hire a lawyer to write the will. Matters relating to estate taxes, provisions for children, care of disabled relatives and disposition of business matters can be complicated and not fit into a standard format. Usually, an estate with a will costs less to administer than an estate without a will that must go through probate, or the court-supervised administration of an estate.

2. Understand property ownership. Property owned by "joint tenancy with right of survivorship" automatically goes to the co-owner in the event of either owner's death. This process skips the probate process and provides for a smooth, non-public transfer. Two people who want their share to go to someone else (like a child) separately should have ownership as tenants in common, not joint tenancy.

3. Update contracts. Many financial instruments, like insurance policies and retirement plans, ask owners to designate a beneficiary or beneficiaries at the time the document is established. If anything changes after a will is created, such as a marriage, divorce, death, or other relationship-changing event, be sure to update these contracts. Otherwise, a former spouse could receive life insurance proceeds, or a younger child might receive nothing from a policy purchased before his or her birth.

4. Consider estate tax. Current tax law provides for tax exemption for estates below $2 million. However, many households can reach this total before they realize it, Stroh noted. Trusts and other mechanisms can soften the pinch of taxes; check with a tax advisor.

5. Plan for powers of attorney. Besides a will, an estate plan should include establishing a power of attorney for trust (managing resources) and for health care (having the say on medical care when a person is unable to speak for her/himself). These important documents ensure your wishes are respected.

"In the end, whether you are a hotel magnate or an average Joe, having a will is an important step in your personal financial plan," Stroh said. "Your family, your loved ones and -- just maybe -- your pets will thank you for the peace of mind it provides."

Based in San Mateo, Calif., Bills. com is a free one-stop online portal where consumers can educate themselves about complex personal finance issues and comparison shop for products and services including credit cards, debt relief assistance, insurance, mortgages and other loans. The company blogs about consumer finance issues at http://www. bills. com/blog (http://www. bills. com/blog). Since 2002, Bills. com has served more than 30,000 customers nationwide while managing more than $1 billion in consumer debt. Bills. com is a division of Freedom Financial Network, LLC, whose co-founders and CEOs, Andrew Housser and Brad Stroh, have been named Northern California finalists in Ernst & Young's Entrepreneur of the Year Awards.

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Aloha Maui! The Maui Spa & Wellness Center, Boca Raton’s Largest Spa, to Launch January 2007

7,000 Square Foot Standalone Spa To Provide A Unique Mind-Body Wellness Sanctuary Showcasing The True Aloha Spirit Of Maui.

Boca Raton, FL (PRWEB) October 8, 2006

"Enter a soothing Hawaiian oasis this January with the arrival of The Maui Spa & Wellness Center to Boca Raton. Be greeted with genuine flower leis and exotic herbal tea upon your arrival. Valued at over $3 million, this idyllic 7,000 square foot, standalone spa will become Boca Raton's paradise escape, providing patrons with authentic, holistic wellness therapies true to the island of Maui to foster total mind-body healing and pampering from within.

"The Maui will be unique to itself and incredibly unique to Boca Raton. While many area spas tend to focus on 'outer beauty' treatments such as Botox or permanent makeup, The Maui will emphasize 'inner healing and harmony within the entire body' by relying on authentic therapies to restore the natural balance, beauty, and health," says President Gayle Wentworth.

"This state-of-the-art spa and wellness center combines eastern and western influences, offering guests 10 private spa treatment rooms, a Hana hydrotherapy room, a Kipahulu relaxation room, a full-service salon, spa retail, and a private, Asian-influenced rooftop garden amidst a Feng Shui balanced environment," explains Wentworth. The wellness aspect offers visitors the complete healing experience with the professional services of an Acupuncturist, Chiropractor, and Psychotherapist.

The Maui's exclusive Hana Room, named after the rainforest area of Maui, is a water-focused retreat inspired by the 7 sacred pools found on the Island. Two private copper soaking tubs, two wet tables for exfoliating body treatments, Deluge waterfall showers and Swiss needle showers, steam and state-of-the-art infrared saunas provide deep healing and detoxification of the body and senses. A Feng Shui designed cold plunge pool is featured in the Hana Room to refresh and awaken the body post-treatment.

Rooftop at The Maui will offer an inviting, Asian-themed garden providing a private space for guests to enjoy energizing fitness classes such as sunrise/sunset Yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi, and cultural Hula. A Tea Bar will also be housed here, supplying spa guests with whole leaf signature tea elixirs, combined with a light Spa cuisine menu, to complete the ultimate escape and revive the mind, body and spirit. Rooftop at The Maui presents a unique and serene backdrop for private events, spa party bookings, and corporate functions.

Wentworth further remarks, "The Maui strives to make every visit an experience and every experience a remarkable rebirth of mind and body." She hopes her lifetime of detailed research towards the design and creation of the spa will result in guests enjoying the experience of feeling "at heart-at mind" with Maui upon their visit.

Located at 2100 NW Boca Raton Boulevard in Boca Raton, The Maui Spa & Wellness Center is the aspiration of Gayle Wentworth, a former resident of the Island of Maui. She believes the influence of east meets western philosophy will find a balance right here in Boca Raton, Florida.

To request a current spa menu or media kit, please contact Michelle Soudry at The Gab Group 561-750-3500

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Lung Disease Study Uses Multi-Modal Technology to Reach Participants Increase in Study Efficacy Highlights Automated Telephone Software from Inventive Labs

Inventive Labs Corporation, a provider of telephony software and application services, and the COPDGene® Study, one of the largest studies ever to investigate the underlying genetic factors of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease or COPD, announced today the successful implementation of a web and telephone-based longitudinal follow-up solution.

Denver, CO (PRWEB) October 21, 2009

The solution, powered by Inventive Labs' Voice Elements software, automates the initial and quarterly follow-up calls to participants, enabling them to respond to study questions by either Touch Tone (pressing digits) or their voice, using speech recognition. Not only does the system gather data for willing participants, but also informs the COPDGene® Study if a participant is unreachable or unwilling to continue participation.

Before the system was installed, Study coordinators had to manage calling the participants, often multiple times, which "ate up" regional Study resources. Inventive Labs' solution integrates a web survey, in addition to the telephone survey, and streamlines data gathering and follow-up management.

"Using Inventive Labs' solution helps the COPDGene Study stay focused on advancing the treatment options and cure strategies for COPD," commented James D. Crapo M. D, Professor of Medicine, National Jewish Health, and University of Colorado Denver and co-founder of the COPDGene® Study. "The customized software and service encompasses various forms of communication and technology that increase our chances for Study participation."

"We were pleased to apply our broad services offerings to the successful deployment of the COPDGene® Study project," said Ron Tanner, president of Inventive Labs. "Bringing telephony, IVR, speech recognition and web technology together highlights how well-constructed automation can provide enormous benefits to organizations such as COPDGene®."

About Inventive Labs

Inventive Labs is a leading provider of telephony application solutions. The company's products and related services, including Voice Elements, dramatically reduce the time, cost and complexity of creating voice solutions.

For more information, please visit: http://www. voiceelements. com/ (http://www. voiceelements. com/)

About COPDGene®

COPD or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States and affects the lives of over 12 million people. There are many risk factors for developing COPD with cigarette smoking being the most common. The goal of the COPDgene® Study is to discover what heritable or genetic factors contribute to the development of COPD in some people. Through continuing collaboration with physicians and researchers across the country, COPDGene® continues to expand and discover exciting new information on the development and progression of COPD.

For more information, please visit: http://www. copdgene. org/ (http://www. copdgene. org/)

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ProcessMaker 1.6 Community Edition BPM & Workflow Suite Released: FastFind Intuitive Inbox Technology Simplifies User Experience

Colosa has released a major new version of its ProcessMaker Community Edition, version 1.6, with an improved user inbox experience to enable users to process incoming tasks more quickly, organize tasks better, and access new powerful search functionality.

Brooklyn, NY (PRWEB) May 21, 2010

Colosa, Inc., the leading provider of BPM and Workflow software, has released a major new version of its ProcessMaker Community Edition. An improved user inbox experience now enables users to process incoming tasks more quickly, organize tasks better, and access new powerful search functionality. ProcessMaker Community Edition 1.6 underlines Colosa’s continued R&D investment to develop and deliver the most comprehensive, flexible and economical business process management (BPM) solution on the market today.

ProcessMaker Community Edition is a simple-to-install and easy-to-use web based application that helps organizations manage business processes and control information flow more efficiently. The software allows organizations to take existing approval based processes that are currently being managed by paper, email, fax or older generation software, and easily convert them into web-based processes that can be run through a simple, user friendly, Web 2.0 interface. Because the Community Edition is open source, organizations can also benefit from a lower total cost of ownership by reusing existing hardware, software, systems and skills.

“We have just raised the bar to a whole new level in the BPM world,” said Brian Reale, CEO of Colosa. “Governments, telecommunication providers, banks, hospitals, schools, and many other types of organizations are running their approval-based processes on ProcessMaker. There is just no reason to pay high fees for complex, bloated, proprietary BPM software when an open source SaaS solution as powerful as ProcessMaker exists.”

Other new features in the Version 1.6 include:

Table based DynaForms – create DynaForms based on variables generated in independent tables Faster Approval via Email – approve cases directly through email client software without requiring users to log into the ProcessMaker system Case Scheduler – initiate workflows automatically based on specific dates or a recurring schedule Custom Calendaring – add a custom calendar to specify work schedules Trigger Wizard with Pre-Built Connectors – connect to ProcessMaker functions and other third-party applications with a ’zero-code’ Trigger builder Self Service Assignment – assign tasks more easily to groups and let individuals claim their own cases to work on

About ProcessMaker www. processmaker. com

ProcessMaker BPM & workflow management software allows public and private organizations to automate document intensive, approval-based processes across departments and systems, including human resources, finance, marketing and sales, and operations. Business users and process experts with no programming experience can design and run workflows, continuously improving process effectiveness and efficiency and radically reducing paperwork. ProcessMaker software has been implemented in a variety of industries including finance, telecommunications, manufacturing, healthcare, and government.

ProcessMaker is developed by Colosa, Inc. (www. colosa. com) Colosa is a Brooklyn, NY based software company that enjoys a network of global partners that can implement and support ProcessMaker software for organizations of all sizes.

Media Contact:

Kurt Crisman

Tel: +1-617-340-3377 x103

Hazel Butters or Laurie SantaLucia

Prompt Communications on behalf of Colosa

Tel: +1-617-401-2717

# # #

Motivational and Inspirational Author Dr. Terry Cole-Whittaker's New Book: "Live Your Bliss: Practices that Produce Happiness and Prosperity"

The book shares with the world the knowledge that will produce continual joy, peace of mind, and good health.

Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) March 26, 2010

In her new book "Live Your Bliss: Practices That Produce Happiness and Prosperity” (http://www. TerryColeWhittaker. com), best-selling author of six books, including the ever-popular What You Think of Me is None of My Business, Emmy-award-winning television producer and host, former televangelist, and Third runner up in Mrs. America, Dr. Terry Cole-Whittaker shares with the world the knowledge that will produce continual joy, peace of mind, good health, and prosperity. Regardless of world conditions or the person’s past history, current problems, or situation, anyone can live their dreams and flourish by applying her bliss-system.

Inspiration for “Live Your Bliss” (http://www. TerryColeWhittaker. com) came after Dr. Cole-Whittaker realized that there was something extremely important missing from her teachings. Although she was at the top of her profession, featured in magazines and newspapers including, Wall Street Journal, US, Newsweek, People, Time, Family Circle, and a popular guest on TV and radio programs, including Oprah, Good Morning America, Larry King, and considered a global celebrity and spiritual and business leader, she wasn’t really happy. Instead, she was fearful, distressed, and emotionally distraught a good part of the time, as if on an emotional roller coaster. Happiness was always just out of reach.

This realization led her on an amazing spiritual journey and vision quest that yielded all that had been missing, plus the sacred wisdom whereby everyone can enjoy the benefits of ever-increasing bliss, sufficiency, and good fortune.

“Live Your Bliss" (http://www. TerryColeWhittaker. com) delivers profound truths in a very accessible manner. It’s high time that more attention be focused on bliss, which Terry rightly describes as the intrinsic nature of every soul. Terry is a wise woman who was written the most important book of her life,” says Steven Halpern, award-winning composer, recording artist, and pioneering sound healer. Neale Donald Walsch, author of Conversations with God, “Few people on the planet are more clear, more aware, more conscious or more wonderfully insightful than Terry Cole-Whittaker. Her wisdom and her gentle joyful guidance changed my life – and they can change yours as well…”

Through the exploration of each chapter, a reader will be able to tap into their bliss by the powerful messages of You Are Already Powerful, Receive the Abundant Flow of Divine Bliss and Opulence, Expand beyond Self-Imposed Limitations into the Realms of Greatness, Prosper and Live Blissfully by Doing What You Love, Pleasure –Producing Relationships. Who Were You Before, and Who Will You Be Next?, The Pleasurable Way to Be Healthy and Vibrant, Entrance into the Realm of Divine Pleasures.

Dr. Cole-Whittaker mission is to remind readers of their limitless power within themselves so, they can create their human success story. It is through this mission that Dr. Cole-Whittaker is shaping the international concept of what is possible to achieve in one’s personal life and life’s work by recognizing and actualizing their inner genius, mental powers, and enormous talents.

Her path of enlightenment and teaching began at the age of 17. Since then, she has studied with the Mystic Masters of the Far East and has studied the great religions and various transformational philosophies of the world. Her students are the Who’s Who of global leaders in all walks of life.

For more information about Dr. Cole-Whittaker and “Live Your Bliss: Practices That Produce Happiness and Prosperity,” visit http://www. TerryColeWhittaker. com (http://www. TerryColeWhittaker. com).

Furthermore, Dr. Cole-Whittaker is available for interviews and to review her book, please contact Yvette Morales at YMoralesY(at)aol(dot)com or at 949.244.9769 for a copy of “Live Your Bliss: Practices That Produce Happiness and Prosperity.”

She travels around the world extensively giving seminars, retreats and key note addresses to both spiritual and entrepreneurial groups. Dr. Cole-Whittaker lives in Los Angeles, CA.

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SPF Funds 14 Projects totaling over $75,000

(PRWEB) March 7, 2000

Shoreline Preservation Fund news release

Shoreline Preservation Fund

Associated Students, UCSB

Santa Barbara, CA 93106

Phone 805-893-5166

Http://orgs. sa. ucsb. edu/spf/ (http://orgs. sa. ucsb. edu/spf/)

For Details, Contact:

Philip Tseng

Shoreline Preservation Fund

Phone (805) 893-5166

Spf@as. ucsb. edu

For Immediate Release March 7th, 2000

SPF Funds 14 Projects totaling over $75,000

Student-created fund distributes money to benefit the UCSB coastline

Santa Barbara, CA - March 7, 2000: During the first two academic quarters at UCSB, the Shoreline Preservation Fund (SPF) has granted monies totaling over $75,000 to projects aimed at preserving the ecological integrity of the shoreline surrounding the UCSB campus. The Board of the Shoreline Preservation Fund approved a total of fourteen projects that will benefit the community in various ways. Craig Revell, a member of the SPF Board, comments "I am thrilled with the outcome of this quarter. We have chosen projects that test the water,

Clean the beach, educate people in many different arenas, restore valuable

Habitat, and increase our knowledge of local coastal systems."

The project that received the biggest sum was designed by the Conception Coast Project (CCP). The $28,780 project will create digital maps using GIS (Geographic Information Systems) technology. These maps will highlight ecologically sensitive areas, land use, and recreational resources. CCP plans to incorporate the maps of the coastline into workbooks, which will be used in an aggressive education program aimed at instilling stewardship of the environment to the university's newest students. SPF board member Brian Counterman said he thinks CCP's program is a wise use of the money generated by the student lock-in fee because it is a long-term project dedicated to helping

The local environment. "I think [the program] is a good idea because it is

Something that can be continuously applied to freshmen and people in the UCSB community," he said. "It's not a one-time shot... I think the maps are going to

Be a valuable resource for university research." CCP plans to reach out to more

Than 3000 incoming freshman and transfer students by the end of this year.

Another project approved by the Board of the Shoreline Preservation Fund is a $13,015 project to start a UCSB shoreline water-quality monitoring program.

This program would augment the county's Project Clean Water program by adding

Four additional testing sites along the Isla Vista peninsula. It is hoped that

The project will increase the community's awareness in public health safety. By

Increasing testing resolution, it is hoped that ocean bacterial pollution

Problem may be isolated and nullified. The data from these additional tests

Will be posted on the web and in the local press. SPF chair, Laura Brands is

Extremely excited about funding water-testing that will be initiated at numerous sites along the UCSB shoreline. "The SPF Board worked for many months with two members of Surfrider Foundation to create an ocean water quality testing program that is comprehensive, frequent, and will give us more information on

Contaminants in the ocean than any County program currently does."

Additionally, the SPF Board approved two projects aimed at enhancing Coal

Oil Point Reserve. The first provides $13,015 for restoration of the dunes at

Coal Oil Point Reserve through removal of acacia and Myoporum (non-native and

Invasive plants) from the most of the Reserve. The restoration of these dunes -

Some of the last in central and southern California - will improve their biological function and in turn benefit UCSB students and researchers as well as the community. The second project at this site is a $7,405 educational and community outreach program. A naturalist will be stationed on the beach at Coal Oil Point (Sands Beach) with a spotting scope so that the public can get a

Detailed look at and understanding of the Western Snowy Plover, a federally

Endangered species. This project will also co-fund an outdoor snowy plover

Education program for fifth graders, currently partly funded by Los Marineros.

The SPF Board also approved ten additional projects which include the

Determination of the sources of high nutrient levels in Goleta Slough, a field

Guide for plants of the UCSB shoreline, and a "Beachwatch" program which will

Assign UCSB students to regularly maintain and clean the local coastal zone.

Members of the SPF Board of Directors are very pleased with the progress

Of the newly founded Fund. According to SPF Board member Nevin Hindiyeh, "In

The past few weeks I have had the opportunity to help fund projects here at UCSB which I know will not only make our oceans cleaner, but will educate everyone

From elementary school kids to the weekend IV jogger. It is amazing what three dollars per student can do." Board member J. Scott Bull adds, "I am very excited and pleased with the extent of careful examination and consideration by the SPF Board on each project proposal. It was a difficult process and our group met the challenges efficiently and effectively. We look forward to more innovative and valuable project proposals which benefit the entire campus community next quarter."

According to SPF Staff Philip Tseng, the Shoreline Preservation Fund is

Also setting precedence for the possible formation of similar groups on other

Campuses. "Our organization is a result of a grassroots effort which recognized

A need for these funds in the local community to care for its coast. Our hope

Is that students on other college campuses can form similar groups that will

Benefit the unique needs of their local communities."

The goal of the Shoreline Preservation Fund is to preserve, protect, and enhance the terrestrial and marine habitats associated with the shoreline of the University of California, Santa Barbara. The SPF provides funds for projects that seek to preserve, enhance, or restore these areas or to educate the community at UCSB about the ecological value of this coastal ecosystem. The SPF also provides funds to create safe and open access to the UCSB shoreline and to

Help keep these areas clean. Projects will be considered on the basis of merit, importance to the goals of the SPF, and the qualifications of the applicants to

Carry out the proposed project.

Applications for funding and general information can be obtained by

Contacting (805) 893-5166 or downloaded electronically at

Http://orgs. sa. ucsb. edu/spf/ (http://orgs. sa. ucsb. edu/spf/). Applications are due on April 7, 2000 for Fall

Quarter 2000 Funding.

The Shoreline Preservation Fund was formed as a result of a ballot measure

Passed in the 1999 UCSB elections, which locked-in $3.00 of Undergraduate and

Graduate fees for the preservation and maintenance of the UCSB shoreline.