Industry Veteran Becomes Chair of the AIIM International Board of Directors

Industry Veteran Becomes Chair of the AIIM International Board of Directors

Bob Zagami, DataBank IMX, will lead Association through December 2009

Beltsville, MD (PRWEB) March 17, 2008

One of the document management industry's most experienced veterans was elected Chairman of the AIIM International (http://www. aiim. org) Board of Directors at the recent AIIM Expo held in Boston recently. Bob Zagami, active in AIIM and the industry for over 30 years, will serve through December 2009.

"Bob has been a leader in this industry and this association for over three decades," noted AIIM President John Mancini. "He brings a rich experience -- as a past board member, chapter leader and as a leader of AIIM's channel programs -- to his new role as chairman. We look forward to tapping into this expertise in the challenging times ahead. "

Zagami was president of the New England Chapter of AIIM 1981-1982 and developed a micrographic education program at the Horace Mann School for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. This alliance with the Horace Mann School, and the chapter, is even stronger today with the addition of document scanning equipment and document management software training.

During his career he received the AIIM Distinguished Service Award in 1983, was elected to the Company of Fellows in 1988, received the Carl E. Nelson Engineering Award in 1993 and the Award of Merit, the industry's highest honor, in 1998. He is an international author and lecturer and a frequent speaker at document management (http://www. databankimx. com/document_management. htm) and records management events.

Dick Aschman, CEO of Databank IMX (http://www. databankimx. com/executives. htm), said, "We are very proud of Bob. We take great pride in his election by his industry peers as the Chairman of the AIIM Board of Directors. We strive to be the best document management company in the United States, and deliver outstanding customer satisfaction. It is people like Bob, and his leadership, who make that happen every day. Bob's service to the industry for 30-plus years provides experience to our company that is impossible to replicate."

Bob's skills and expertise are well known throughout DataBank IMX. His leadership as our General Manger in the New England region has allowed us to deliver many innovative document management solutions to our clients. This election speaks to the respect he has in our industry and it is well deserved."

Industry consultant Ed LoTurco noted, "As a past member of the AIIM International Board, I couldn't be more pleased to see a seasoned professional like Bob Zagami take on the leadership role of this Association. He not only brings industry experience, but the leadership to strengthen education, meet the needs of his constituents, and continue to position AIIM to meet business objectives and association challenges."

About DataBank IMX
Databank IMX (www. databankimx. com) is a premier national full service provider of Document Management Solutions. With nine production centers throughout the United States, they deliver a full range of document imaging services, technologies, and tools to capture, manage, store, preserve and deliver information for their clients. They design and deploy solutions and workflows that provide business process improvements and streamline operations.

As a customer-focused organization they take the time to gain a thorough understanding of their clients' environments and security requirements. As a leader in the document management industry, they have a proven track record of successes and for delivering value to their clients.

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'AfghanMarkSM' New Global Trademark Announced Today: New Brand Certifies Better Pay, Working Conditions, Access to Education, Literacy and Health Care for Afghan Women Carpet Weavers

'AfghanMarkSM' New Global Trademark Announced Today: New Brand Certifies Better Pay, Working Conditions, Access to Education, Literacy and Health Care for Afghan Women Carpet Weavers

New AfghanMark brand trademark on carpets empowers Afghan women to escape poverty. New AfghanMark brand label on carpets certifies better pay, inspected working conditions, access to health care and education, including literacy training for Afghan women carpet weavers, also enhances "shopping with a conscience" for American consumers who purchase AfghanMark brand carpets.

New York (PRWEB) February 16, 2007

The Afghan Women's Business Federation (AWBF) made the world première announcement its new trademark called AfghanMark SM, which is a certification brand label that will be carried on exported carpets made by Afghan women employed by women-owned or women-managed carpet-making businesses.

The AfghanMark SM brand label on a carpet certifies that the Afghan women who made that carpet were paid fair wages while working in inspected working conditions with no illegal child labor, and with access to health care and education, including literacy training for the Afghan women.

This is a major humanitarian, educational and business development breakthrough by Afghan women for Afghan women in the post-Taliban era of Afghan history. For centuries, many Afghan women have toiled for much of their lives on looms, sometimes barely eking out a living, while making the hand-knotted, world-famous Afghan carpets that are emblematic of the artisan culture of Afghanistan. Many of these hard-working women today are illiterate, with limited social, health care or educational opportunities. Some are war widows. Most are mothers and many are breadwinners for their families. They sometimes work on the carpet looms for wages as low as one dollar per day, or less, while making high-end, heirloom quality carpets that can sell for premium prices.

The new AfghanMark SM trademark brand means empowerment for working women not through charity but through business, with fair pay and labor rights. For these women, the AfghanMark SM brand means more and better food for their families, education, health care and, above all, greater respect for Afghan women who, under Taliban rule, and in other eras, were often treated poorly.  

The new AfghanMark SM trademark empowers conscientious consumers, wholesalers, importers and retailers to make an informed choice and select high-quality carpets that meet the certification standards of the AfghanMark SM brand.

Only "heirloom quality" carpets, which the AWBF certifies as a particularly high standard of carpet, will be allowed to carry the new AfghanMark SM certification trademark. Each carpet will be numbered and will have with it a brief story of the woman or women who wove the carpet.

The AfghanMark SM was created by the post-Taliban era Afghan Women's Business Federation, which is headquartered in Kabul with women-owned and women-managed member business throughout Afghanistan. The AfghanMark SM is intended to become a true, meaningful and increasingly widely recognized symbol of a better life for Afghan women weavers who aren't asking charity, but just the opportunity to benefit fairly from their hard work on the looms. 

The Afghan Women's Business Federation was established in Afghanistan after the elimination of Taliban rule with U. S. assistance from the Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE) and funding from the United States Agency for International Development.

Note to Editor: You can find 30 downloadable digital color AfghanMark SM logo images and dozens of 300 d. p.i. color photos of Afghan women working at all stages of carpet making, from wool preparation to actual weaving, plus "snapshots" of life in Afghanistan today, including women attending school, at www. afghanmark. com/press (http://www. afghanmark. com/press)  

Additional Facts: Ensuring Fair Wages for Afghan Women Carpet Makers:

Participating AfghanMark SM companies/organizations are required by AWBF to provide fair compensation to their weavers. This new AfghanMark SM level of compensation, which the AWBF has set at 150% of the current wage rate, must be paid directly to the weavers in cash. In addition, companies are required to provide an additional 10% commission on the sale of each carpet payable in cash directly to the woman who wove it. AWBF will monitor the production cost, wholesale cost, selling price and wage paid to each of the weavers of each carpet to ensure that AfghanMark SM program criteria are being met consistently.

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Founder and director of Nature's Place Therapy, Incorporated, Deborah Adams will present a seminar at the upcoming World Congress&Exposition on Disabilities

Founder and director of Nature's Place Therapy, Incorporated, Deborah Adams will present a seminar at the upcoming World Congress&Exposition on Disabilities.

Founder and director of Nature's Place Therapy, Incorporated, Deborah Adams will present information on animal assistants and the existing programs at Nature's Place at the upcoming World Congress & Exposition on Disablilites(WDC).

Davenport, FL., (PRWEB) September 6, 2003

NatureÂ’s Place Therapy, Incorporated

A 503c-3 Not-for-Profit Corporation

1316 South Boulevard West

Davenport, Florida 33837

Contact: Joyel Ortega Telephone: 863-421-0556

 E-mail: naturesplace@aol. com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE. . .

DAVENPORT, FLA.: Founder and director of NatureÂ’s Place Therapy, Incorporated, Deborah Adams, will present a seminar at the upcoming 4th annual World Congress & Exposition on Disabilities (WCD).

The WCD will be held Sept. 18-20 at the Orange County Convention Center. Adams will provide information on “The Use of Animal Assistants to Achieve Therapy Goals” from 11-11:50 a. m. Sat., Sept.20.

Adams states that the use of animals as therapy assistants will be clarified and contrasted with the more well-known animal visitation programs at the seminar. Also, she will discuss issues surrounding animal-assisted programs, as well as the existing program at NatureÂ’s Place Therapy Services.

A Speech/Language Pathologist with a Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, Adams is also a registered therapist with the American Hippotherapy Association. She holds memberships in the North American Riding for the Handicapped Assn. and the Delta Society that governs all therapy animals.

Animal-assisted therapy and research programs Adams has directed include joint affiliations with the Clearwater Marine Science Center, Exceptional Equestrians, Freedom Ride Therapeutic Riding Center, Walt Disney World, and Sea World.

The exposition will feature 200 exhibitors and 120 multi-disciplinary sessions sponsored by the WCD Foundation for Education and other professional societies and organizations.

The WCD is open to all professionals in the disability community, people with disabilities and to lay persons who are interested in helping the disabled. For further information, visit the WCD site at www. wcdexpo. com/ (http://www. wcdexpo. com/).

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Zayo Enterprise Networks Uses Business Communications Services to Help Property Managers Attract Tenants

Zayo Enterprise Networks Uses Business Communications Services to Help Property Managers Attract Tenants

Zayo to exhibit at the BOMA Memphis Commercial Buildings EXPO to showcase this solution

Memphis, TN (PRWEB) October 21, 2009

Zayo Enterprise Networks, a division of Zayo Group and a provider of fiber-based telecommunications solutions for business, government and education, will be exhibiting today at the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) Memphis Commercial Buildings Expo to discuss how communications services may help fill commercial property vacancies.

Zayo's metro area network provides high-quality, high-speed voice, Internet and data solutions to businesses and organizations throughout the Memphis area. One property that has already taken advantage of these services is Lenox Park, who leverages Zayo's communications services as a kind of "fourth utility" to offer their tenants. The management team provides their occupants with secure, scalable Internet access at no cost--greatly increasing the value their tenants receive for their real estate dollar.

"We have found that our tenants at Lenox Park have been very receptive to having their Internet communications included with their lease rather than sourcing it themselves at an additional cost," said Dan Chancey, General Manager at Grubb and Ellis Management Services. "When we built our fiber infrastructure at Lenox Park, we knew we'd need a communications provider we could rely on and we're happy to have Zayo as a partner."

By attending the BOMA expo, Zayo hopes to make others aware of the value-add potential inherent within these types of communications solutions.

"We've been providing services to Lenox Park since 2006 and are very proud of the relationship we've developed during that time," said Garner Bailey, General Manager for Zayo's Memphis market. "We are pleased to show our support by exhibiting here at the BOMA Memphis Expo and look forward to meeting with other members of the local BOMA community."

About Zayo Enterprise Networks
Based in Louisville, Colo., Zayo Enterprise Networks (www. zayoenterprise. com) provides voice, data, colocation and video telecommunications solutions to businesses, schools, hospitals, government agencies and non-profit organizations in metro areas across the United States. Large, multi-site corporations to small, single-site agencies rely on Zayo Enterprise Networks for their communications needs.

About Zayo Group
Based in Louisville, Colo., Zayo Group (www. zayo. com) is a provider of telecom services including bandwidth, voice and managed services to carrier, enterprise, SME and government customers. Zayo Group currently provides its service over a fiber network that spans 129 markets in 23 states. Zayo Group consists of four complementary business units: Zayo Bandwidth, Zayo Colocation Services, Zayo Enterprise Networks and Onvoy Voice Services. For various Group updates, follow Zayo on Twitter: ZayoGroup.

For more information contact:
Lauren Wojtko
Zayo Enterprise Networks
303.228.7682

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PreK-12 Homeschooling Company Holding Car Give-Away That Will Help Family With Rising Fuel Costs

PreK-12 Homeschooling Company Holding Car Give-Away That Will Help Family With Rising Fuel Costs

Leading online homeschooling service provider Learning By Grace, Inc. is holding a Chevy Aveo Give-Away. The car's make and model were chosen due to its fuel efficiency and highlights the company's concern in promoting consumer car safety.

Philadelphia, PA (PRWEB) August 9, 2006

Leading Christian homeschooling provider Learning By Grace, Inc. (www. LearningByGrace. org) is currently holding "The Great Grace Give-Away," a car sweepstakes for homeschooling families. The vehicle that has been chosen for the drawing is the 2006 Chevy Aveo (www. chevrolet. com/aveo (http://www. chevrolet. com/aveo)). The Aveo was chosen by Learning By Grace because it earned a 5-Star safety rating for frontal crash performance from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). According to the EPA, it is also extremely fuel efficient with the capability to drive 35 miles using only one gallon of gas.

"Because the average homeschooling family spends 50% more time than average in the car, rising gas prices are having a negative effect on us. We wish we could give a fuel efficient car to every one of our students, but The Great Grace Give-Away will allow us to help at least one family while promoting environment-conscious consumerism. Not only will the Chevy Aveo save the winning family a lot on fuel, but the sweepstakes also promotes environmental and passenger safety. That's what Learning By Grace is truly dedicated to: the safety of our families," stated Mimi Rothschild, CEO of the Learning By Grace, Inc. managed academies.

The Great Grace Give-Away is open to all current subscribers to Learning By Grace's free Homeschooling Newsletter, as well as homeschoolers who subscribe at www. LearningByGrace. org/car (http://www. LearningByGrace. org/car) before November 1, 2006. The newsletter offers free information, tools, and support for Christian homeschooling families.

Learning by Grace, Inc. is the leading manager of revolutionary Christian PreK-12 multimedia rich online learning solutions. Through its parent-led or teacher-led academies and 140 extensive course offerings, Learning by Grace provides engaging educational support to Christian homeschool families worldwide.

The Learning By Grace Home Schooling Programs (http://www. learningbygrace. org) include:
The Grace Academy Homeschooling (http://www. TheGraceAcademy. org) The Jubilee Academy Home Schooling (http://www. TheJubileeAcademy. org) The MorningStar Academy Home Schooling (http://www. TheMorningStarAcademy. org)

For more information about Learning by Grace, visit www. LearningByGrace. org.

Contact Information:
Mimi Rothschild
866.367.4722

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MICHAEL WISSOT ISSUES STATEMENT ON 'DAMAGING' PAVLEY BILL

MICHAEL WISSOT ISSUES STATEMENT ON 'DAMAGING' PAVLEY BILL

Legislation sets bad precedent and endangers California families.

WOODLAND HILLS (PRWEB) August 4, 2002 -

Michael Wissot, the Republican 41st Assembly District nominee and former Ventura County Air Pollution Control District employee issued the following statement strongly condemning the passage of AB 1493, a bill which was amended this week to include previous legislation from AB 1058 more popularly known as the "SUV Tax Bill".  

"My opponent has proposed a damaging piece of legislation to California families and our local economy, in particular our automotive industry and its employees. We all share a love of our environment, but Assemblywoman Pavley has once again proposed legislation intended to placate her environmental lobbyists, with little or no regard for the inhabitants of the environment she claims to represent".

"This issue should be viewed in terms of cost-benefit to all of the affected parties. Research shows that if we were to eliminate all the cars in the state of California tomorrow it would have a net impact of reducing CO2 emissions by less than.1 percent worldwide. On the other hand, this bill will most certainly cause the automotive industry to raise the costs of many of its vehicles, most likely causing a decline in sales by pricing consumers out of an affordable choice. As a consequence, this will damage the economy by decreasing industry revenue and costing automotive industry jobs. Therefore, when looking at the nominal benefit this has on the environment, coupled with the major impact it will have on California families, it would be irresponsible to support such a bill."

"My opponent claims that the other benefit to her bill is that it will show that California is once again at the forefront of American trends and she hopes that other states and the federal government will follow the lead on her bill. I think I join most of my fellow Californians when I say that this is one trend we do not want to see California set."

Michael Wissot is a local small business owner in Woodland Hills, CA. He has served at the helm of Dentistry. com, an Internet company specializing in information-based services for patients and dental professionals, for the past 3 years. Dentistry. com has flourished under his leadership, becoming the most comprehensive online resource for oral health care worldwide.

Prior to owning Dentistry. com, Michael Wissot worked for United States Senate, serving on the staff of Senator John McCain of Arizona, along with the Senate Committee for Commerce, Science, and Transportation. He covered several key legislative issues on domestic commerce, including the moratorium on Internet taxation, the deregulation of the telecommunication/cable industry, and the curbing of corruption in professional boxing. When dealing with sports-related issues, he relied on his background in sports marketing, which included stints with the San Francisco Giants, Baltimore Orioles, Insight. com Bowl, and James Madison University Athletics. His public relations expertise was fostered through a challenging agenda at Hill and Knowlton in New York, where he worked with several high profile clients/companies. Wissot received a Bachelor of Arts degree from James Madison University, a Master of Business Administration degree from The University of Arizona, and a Master of International Management degree from Thunderbird, The American Graduate School of International Management. Other educational experiences in Salamanca, Spain and Geneva, Switzerland have provided him with a strong background in cross-cultural communication, negotiation, and diplomacy. He has an intimate appreciation for the Hispanic culture and actively uses his fluency in Spanish.

For more information on this issue or Michael Wissot's 41st Assembly District campaign, please contact Campaign Manager Ryan Powers at 818-674-9071 or at info@wissot. com

ASR Analytics Introduces Business Intelligence Accountability Framework for Higher Education

ASR Analytics Introduces Business Intelligence Accountability Framework for Higher Education

Institutions are struggling with reporting for IPEDS, Common Data Set, Achieving the Dream, and other accountability initiatives in higher education. ASR Analytics introduces a framework for reporting through these accountability programs while helping institutions use the data for strategic reporting and analysis. ASR Analytics' new Accountability Framework for Higher Education uses business intelligence methodologies to make a sustainable reporting foundation for decision making.

Potomac, MD (PRWEB) February 21, 2008

Students, parents, and the larger college or university community are demanding that institutions be more transparent about graduation rates, the admitted class profile, and the success of their alumni. In fact, the U. S. Federal Government is requiring institutions of higher education to be publicly accountable for outcomes and results.

IPEDS is continually changing to reflect this new reality, while accrediting agencies and associations are responding to the call with new accountability reporting systems, including:
 IPEDS  Common Data Set  U-CAN - University and College Accountability Network  College Portrait - Voluntary System of Accountability  Achieving the Dream  Access to Success

With so many accountability initiatives in higher education it is becoming increasingly difficult for Institutional Research departments to keep up. Talented analysts are spending an exorbitant amount of time extracting often duplicate information from transactional systems to provide to these accountability initiatives in the proper format. Although the information produced through these initiatives is extremely valuable, it often goes unused by institutional decision makers as it is not stored in a format that makes it conducive for strategic reporting and analysis.

ASR Analytics provides a unique solution to these problems by helping institutions establish a framework for accountability reporting using business intelligence methods and best practices. The goal of the Accountability Framework for Higher Education is to provide institutions with a system that facilitates strategic reporting and analysis using the same valuable data that needs to be reported to IPEDS, Common Data Set, and other important accountability initiatives.

"We've turned accountability reporting upside down," said Graham Tracey, ASR Analytics' Director of Higher Education Services. "First, we pull the data needed by the accountability initiatives out of the student information system and optimize it for strategic reporting and analysis, only then is the data layout prepared for submission."

"It's a bit like paying yourself before paying your bills each month," said Tracey. "Why not use this valuable data for decision making before submitting it and effectively 'throwing it away'?"

With ASR Analytics' Accountability Framework for Higher Education, instead of worrying about extracting data and querying transactional systems, Institutional Researchers will be able to spend more time providing valuable insight and analysis to decision makers.

Deans, Department Heads, and Executives will also benefit through self-service strategic reporting that accurately reflects the reality that has been reported to governments, accrediting agencies, and voluntary accountability organizations.

ASR's Accountability Framework: http://www. asranalytics. com/solutions/education/accountability/ (http://www. asranalytics. com/solutions/education/accountability/)

ASR's solutions for Higher Education: http://www. asranalytics. com/solutions/education/ (http://www. asranalytics. com/solutions/education/)

ASR's business intelligence blog: http://www. asranalytics. com/category/blog/ (http://www. asranalytics. com/category/blog/)

About ASR Analytics, LLC
ASR Analytics LLC (ASR) provides high-end business intelligence and analytic consulting services to clients in higher education. ASR aims to provide institutional decision makers with self-service decision support tools to help them be more effective in their recruitment, retention, and accountability initiatives. To learn more about our solutions visit: http://www. asranalytics. com/ (http://www. asranalytics. com/).

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InfoComm’s CTS, CTS-I Credentials Earn ISO/IEC 17024 Accreditation

InfoComm’s CTS, CTS-I Credentials Earn ISO/IEC 17024 Accreditation

More than 9,500 CTS recipients recognized for AV Technical Proficiency.

Fairfax, VA (PRWEB) March 20, 2008 -–

InfoComm International, the leading trade association representing the professional audiovisual industry today announced that the International Organization for Standardization's (ISO) United States representative, the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), has accredited InfoComm’s Certified Technology Specialist and Certified Technology Specialist –- Installation credentials under ISO/IEC 17024.

ISO/IEC 17024 establishes a global benchmark for the certification of personnel. ANSI accredits standards developers, certification bodies and technical advisory groups to both the ISO and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).
This accreditation meets the requirements by the U. S. DoD (Department of Defense) Directive 8570.1, which requires its information assurance workers to obtain a commercial certification that has been accredited by ANSI or equivalent authorized body under the global ISO/IEC 17024 standard. This DoD-wide policy was approved for implementation in December 2005.

"InfoComm is the only organization within the audiovisual industry to earn ANSI accreditation for its personnel certification program and we are pleased that InfoComm is continuing to set the industry standard for competency and quality in the AV industry,” said Randal A. Lemke, Ph. D., Executive Director, InfoComm International. “This accomplishment is a tribute to the visionary thinking of InfoComm’s Board of Governors, who several years ago recognized the value of seeking outside validation of InfoComm’s certification program, and to the tenacity of the members of InfoComm’s independent Certification Committee, who helped institute important programmatic changes that were necessary to navigate ANSI’s rigorous accreditation process.”

“Today is a victory for the more than 9,500 audiovisual professionals who have earned the CTS credential, and for the companies with the foresight to invest in InfoComm’s certification program,” said Mark Valenti, CTS, InfoComm International President, and President of The Sextant Group. “Architects, AV design consultants, the government and others who specify AV work can have full confidence in the validity of the CTS credential.”

Spencer Bullins, CTS, of AMX Corporation said, “InfoComm is meeting the changing demands of industry and government through the accreditation of the CTS credential. The investment in resources and volunteer time has been very significant, but having ANSI validate the value of our program is the ultimate compliment and recognition.” Bullins serves as Chair of InfoComm’s independent Certification Committee and is a past president of InfoComm International.
"InfoComm is commended for completing this rigorous process and receiving ANSI accreditation," said Dr. Roy Swift, program director for certification accreditation for ANSI. "ANSI/ISO/IEC 17024 was developed in response to businesses and governments seeking a valid benchmark for agencies who certify people.”

Employers in the public and private sectors can be confident that AV professionals holding the CTS and the CTS-I credentials possess the necessary skills to implement audiovisual best practices, processes and procedures anywhere in the world.
Certified Technology Specialists (CTS) serve clients by creating, operating and servicing AV solutions, while meeting client's needs, on time and within budget. A Certified Technology Specialist - Installation (CTS-I) installs and maintains audiovisual systems by following specifications, schematics, codes, and safety protocols; administering installation process logistics; troubleshooting and problem solving systems; maintaining tools and equipment; and communicating with clients, designers, other trades, other installers and staff, all while providing exemplary customer service. Ongoing professional education is required to maintain the credentials. A certification is valid for three years and certified individuals must earn 30 renewal units (RUs) within each three-year period, remain in good standing, and abide by the CTS Code of Ethics and Conduct.

InfoComm also offers an advanced certification in Design. That program is currently being revised and InfoComm and the InfoComm Independent Certification Committee are in the process of applying to the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) for accreditation of this certification.

About InfoComm International®

InfoComm International is the international trade association of the professional audiovisual and information communications industries. Established in 1939, InfoComm has 4,500 members, including manufacturers, systems integrators, dealers and distributors, independent consultants, programmers, rental and staging companies, end-users and multimedia professionals from more than 70 countries. InfoComm International is the leading resource for AV market research and news. Its training and education programs, along with its separately administered Certified Technology Specialist (CTS®) and corporately administered Certified Audiovisual Solutions Provider (CAVSP) company credentials, set a standard of excellence for AV professionals. InfoComm International is the founder of InfoComm, the largest annual conference and exhibition for AV buyers and sellers worldwide. InfoComm also produces trade shows in Europe, Asia, and China. Additional information is available at www. infocomm. org.

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Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park To Receive $10 Million

Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park To Receive $10 Million

Roosevelt Island Park Groundbreaking Scheduled for January 2010

New York, NY (PRWEB) December 17, 2009

The Alphawood Foundation (http://www. alphawoodfoundation. org/) of Chicago announced today it will award a major gift of $10 Million to help fund construction of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park (http://fdrfourfreedomspark. org/) on Roosevelt Island. The park is a private-public partnership between New York State, New York City and the private sector. Groundbreaking for the park is scheduled for January 2010. Construction of the park will create 200 jobs for more than two years and deliver an extraordinary new public space in the heart of New York City.

“We are thrilled to help build this park in memory of President Roosevelt whose leadership and investment in people and infrastructure brought us through the Great Depression,” said Fred Eychaner, Chairman of the Alphawood Foundation.

“We are extremely grateful to Mr. Eychaner and the Alphawood Foundation for the generous support,” said William J. vanden Heuvel, Founder and Chair Emeritus, Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt Institute. “Now it’s time to build. The park will be a majestic addition to New York’s offering of public spaces and an instant New York City institution. It will be a reminder of what we as New Yorkers stand for and fight for, and want with all our hearts to leave to our children, and they, to theirs.”

In 1973, New York State Governor Rockefeller and New York City Mayor Lindsay presided over the dedication ceremony of Roosevelt Island to pay tribute to the great president. Welfare Island, in the center of the East River of New York City, was re-named Roosevelt Island and four acres at its southern tip were set aside to build the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park designed by the renowned architect Louis I. Kahn.

The Alphawood Foundation has been funding operating expenses of the project since 2006, which makes it possible for construction to begin in 2010. The $10 million gift, triggered by construction milestones in phase 1, will allow the second of three construction phases to proceed immediately after phase 1 is complete.

Franklin R. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park
The Franklin R. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park (http://fdrfourfreedomspark. org/) is a public-private partnership between the state, city and the private sector. Dedicated in 1973 by New York State Governor Rockefeller and New York City Mayor Lindsay, the park was designed by the great American architect, the late Louis Kahn. It was his last design and the only project of his which can still be built. The park will be situated on four acres on the southern tip of Roosevelt Island, overlooking Manhattan and Queens. The park will serve as permanent memorial to President Roosevelt’s vision for a better, more peaceful world and will commemorate the President whose leadership inspired our nation during its darkest hours and rekindled the American dream.

The park is named after President Roosevelt’s January 6, 1941 address to Congress in which he outlined the “Four Freedoms”: Freedom of speech, freedom to worship in one’s own way, freedom from want and freedom from fear.

Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park, LLC
The Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park, LLC is a non-profit 501(c) (3) corporation operating as a wholly owned subsidiary of the Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt Institute. The corporation is designated by the Institute as the development entity dedicated to build the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park, a landmark civic project in honor of President Roosevelt. Ambassador William J. vanden Heuvel, Founder and Chair Emeritus of the Institute, co-chairs the LLC with Mrs. Franklin D. Roosevelt, Jr., and Kathy Sloane, a trustee of the Institute for more than 20 years, serves as Vice-Chair. Sally Minard is President and Chief Executive Officer and Gina Pollara is the Executive Director.

Alphawood Foundation
Alphawood Foundation supports nonprofit organizations promoting fairness and equity through progressive policy change, promoting the rights and protections of LGBT citizens and people living with HIV/AIDS, and organizations advancing the Arts, Arts Education, Architecture, Archaeology, and Domestic Violence Intervention/Prevention. It was founded in 1992 by its chairman, Fred Eychaner. Alphawood Foundation accepts proposals by invitation only.

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Virtual Business Training Prepares Entrepreneurs to Provide Services to Clients They May Never Meet

Virtual Business Training Prepares Entrepreneurs to Provide Services to Clients They May Never Meet

New virtual associate training program ensures high standards and meets demands of a rapidly growing industry.

Vail, CO (PRWEB) April 30, 2006

Starting a service business in an exploding industry with constantly changing technology where service provider and client are separated by great distances may seem impossible or even crazy. A new training program shows entrepreneurs how to overcome these enormous challenges and launch successful virtual service businesses.

Virtual Business Training announced an innovative training program to facilitate the development of viable and sustainable businesses for Virtual Associates and Virtual Assistants (VAs) who use cutting-edge technology to provide administrative, creative, managerial, technical or personal services from their own offices to clients across the country and around the globe.

According to a 2000 George Washington University Forecast of Emerging Technologies, the VA industry is one of the fastest growing home-based businesses and is expected to reach a $130 billion dollar industry by 2008. Gretchen Berg, founder of Virtual Business Training, states, “The industry is facing rapid growth in a short period of time. Advances in technology will remove geographical boundaries and enable additional service sectors to provide services remotely. We will be hard pressed to meet the demand for trained virtual associates while maintaining industry integrity. Virtual Business Training is dedicated to ensuring the education of virtual associates and meeting the demand in an ever growing market.”

Virtual Business Training is unique in that it simulates a virtual work environment by spending more time on task and less time in the classroom. The program cultivates tomorrow’s virtual associates through practical instruction, hands-on client simulation exercises and peer collaboration in a dynamic online learning environment. The 10 week program will begin each quarter starting in June 2006. To learn more about how Virtual Business Training prepares entrepreneurs to work successfully in the virtual environment, please visit www. virtualbusinesstraining. com.

Gretchen Berg, founder of Virtual Business Training and owner of Berg Business Solutions, Inc. is a Master Virtual Assistant (MVA), a Certified Real Estate Support Specialist (CRESS), a Professional Real Estate Virtual Assistant (PREVA), a member of the advisory panel at VA Certification and a trainer with REVA Training Center.

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Van Cleef & Arpels Raises AED 635,000 For Palestinian Children

Van Cleef & Arpels Raises AED 635,000 For Palestinian Children

French charity UEUP to provide educational support & health relief.

Sumner, MI (PRWEB) December 18, 2005

Jewellery house Van Cleef & Arpels, joined hands with Un Enfant, Une Promesse (UEUP), a French Association, to raise AED 635,000 for the children of Palestine living in the Refugee Camps in Gaza, West Bank & Lebanon. A special event was organised in Dubai recently at the Grand Hyatt Dubai under the patronage of HRH Princess Haya bint Al Hussein, Wife of HH General Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and UAE Minister of Defence.

“As a responsible corporate entity, we strive to contribute to social and charitable causes that are non-political, non-religious and issues that are purely humanitarian such as supporting the children of Palestine,” said Van Cleef & Arpels’ Director, Stephane De Palmas.

He noted that providing a helping hand to the children of Palestine and to give them a hope for a bright future full of promise and opportunities is a noble cause.

A total of AED 635,000 was raised at the event with Van Cleef & Arpels Cadenas necklace in white gold and diamonds fetching an enormous AED 500,000 while a Cadenas watch was auctioned off for AED 135,000. There was an avid interest among the 500 strong gathering for the jewellery as well as a strong desire to contribute to the Palestinian cause.

UEUP was established in 2003 with the objective of providing the children of the Palestinian refugee camps with better educational opportunities, health facilities and a bright future without violence, hatred and discrimination.

For needy children in the refugee camps of the West Bank, Gaza and Lebanon the primary aim is to provide for their basic needs such as food, clothing, educational tools and health care.

Poverty and restrictions on freedom of movement have adverse effects on children’s living standards. Most children are almost wholly dependent on their parents for survival and their economic situation is therefore a key determinant of access to social, health and education resources required for adequate living. Approximately 75% of Palestinians currently live below the poverty line of $2 per day.

More than 364,000 children have suffered directly due to the reduction in income of their main source of support, with malnutrition rates for Palestinian children currently at 22%

Corporate social responsibility forms a vital part of Van Cleef & Arpels strategy and the jewellery house has contributed to several major initiatives since its inception in 1906.

Van Cleef & Arpels have recently opened a boutique in Dubai, strategically located in the new Bur Juman Centre, the residence of high fashion in the country. Located in the heart of Dubai, the Bur Juman Centre is a distinctive landmark that comprises of 800,000 square feet of retail space.

Van Cleef & Arpels is a jewellery house known for its intricate, classic and stunning designs. Every piece of jewellery involves painstaking work as Van Cleef & Arpels have literally mastered the art of jewellery through an eye for ingenious detail, sophisticated mechanisms and well kept secrets such as telling time with a delicate touch of a flower's petal or a leaf set with jewels. The most precious jewellery and watches in the world are signed by Van Cleef & Arpels.

For more information, please contact:

BIZ COM - For PRoactive Communications

P. O. Box 48889; Dubai – UAE

Tel: +971 4 332-0888

Fax: +971 4 332-0999

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Immigration Reform Punishes Legal High-Skilled Immigrants, Says Immigration Voice

Immigration Reform Punishes Legal High-Skilled Immigrants, Says Immigration Voice

The 2007 Comprehensive Immigration Reform Bill, being touted as a "Grand Bargain", ostensibly claims to reward merit. However, high-skilled workers who would supposedly benefit from the bill dispute such characterizations. After analyzing the fine-print of the Bill, the Core group members of Immigration Voice, shared their views at a recent nationwide conference call. They represent the interests of half-a-million legal high-skilled immigrants whose Green Card applications are stuck in the quagmire of processing backlogs. Immigration Voice released a Position Paper during this event, and believes the truth is hidden 'under the spin'.

Dayton, NJ (PRWEB) May 29, 2007

The 2007 Comprehensive Immigration Reform Bill, being touted as a "Grand Bargain", ostensibly claims to reward merit. However, high-skilled workers who would supposedly benefit from the bill dispute such characterizations. After analyzing the fine-print of the Bill, the Core group members of Immigration Voice, shared their views at a recent nationwide conference call. They represent the interests of half-a-million legal high-skilled immigrants whose Green Card applications are stuck in the quagmire of processing backlogs. Immigration Voice released a Position Paper during this event, and believes the truth is hidden 'under the spin'.

Immigration Voice, a non-profit organization, has over 12,000 members, drawn from various facets of industry, including Medicine, Information Technology, Consulting in the Banking and Finance sector, Research and Teaching at the University level.

"In a 'Nation of Laws', one would expect that the Bill would reward, or at least treat fairly those who play by the rules and abide by the Law. It has actually done the very opposite!" says Immigration Voice President, Aman Kapoor.

Annual quota for legal skilled immigrants is miniscule compared to undocumented immigrants: Jay Pradhan, a Computer Programmer says, "The annual Green Card quota available to undocumented immigrants under the proposed Z visa would be approximately 2.2 million per year for the first 5 years. Compare this to the current legal, employment based Green Card system that faces backlogs of 5-6 years - not including the various processing delays. The annual quota of 140,000 Green Cards for legal skilled immigrants has been reduced to 90,000 instead of being increased. One wonders who the so called 'Comprehensive' Bill benefits? Certainly not the legal high - skilled workers, who have worked so hard and followed all Laws of this country."

Existing backlogs exacerbated by lowering the numerical cap for legal skilled immigrants instead of raising it and diverting those visas to future guest-worker program: Naren Baliga, who works for a German Software Multinational and holds a US Masters in Engineering, says, "Half a million high-skilled workers and their families have been in the queue patiently awaiting their turn for 5-6 years. The bill not only cannibalizes from the already limited quota by reducing the annual cap, but also diverts a large portion of these annual visas to Y visa holders under the proposed Guest Worker Program and also to an untested, untried merit-based points system. Y Visa holders benefit at the expense of high-skilled, legal workers waiting for their Green Cards to be approved for several years."

The proposed merit based points system puts undocumented immigrants ahead of the legal skilled graduate degree holders in the queue for available Green Cards. "The proposed merit-based points system is flawed. It awards more points for illegal presence and low skills and, less points to legal, skilled immigrants. For example, a previously undocumented Z visa worker can score 21 points with 3 years of agriculture experience while a legal skilled immigrant with a MBA, MD or Graduate degree scores 20 points for education. The points system is poorly designed and unbalanced. Additionally, several high-skilled workers are waiting for their Green Cards to be approved, and transitioning to a new points-based system would mean that they lose their spot in the queue", laments Himanshu, an Advertising and Design professional who has a Masters Degree from a US University.

No country-limits for the undocumented, but, country-limits for legal high-skilled: "By Law, there can be no discrimination based on country of origin, when hiring an employee. Jobs go to the most qualified person, regardless of origin. But, when it comes to retaining high-skilled people in this country - there is a per-country limit. But, the limit applies only if one is a legal, high-skilled worker. Per the bill, no per-country ceiling exists for undocumented workers (Z visa holders) when applying for Green cards!" says Alok Sharma, a physician. Dr. Sharma has seen physicians from other countries get their Green Cards in a year or less, while he, a citizen of India, may not be able to get one for several years, even with an approved Immigration petition due to the huge backlogs!

"The current immigration bill provides no genuine relief to high-skilled workers at all. Is this how a 'nation of laws' treats those who follow the Law?" ask all of them pensively.

Immigration Voice (www. immigrationvoice. org) is a non-profit national grassroots organization committed to feasible solutions to a broken employment-based immigration process. Immigration Voice is advocating for technical changes that will improve the quality of life of several individuals that are stuck in the backlogs/delays, and help the system to work as it was intended.

Contact:
Aman Kapoor
Immigration Voice
850-294-3556
Email info @ immigrationvoice. org

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Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge Appoints New President

Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge Appoints New President

(PRWEB) November 12, 1999

FORMER USAF ACADEMY SUPERINTENDENT NAMED FREEDOMS FOUNDATION PRESIDENT

Lt. General Robert E. Kelley to Succeed Rear Admiral Richard Ustick

VALLEY FORGE, PA -- Gerald L. Warren, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge announced today that former U. S. Air Force Academy Superintendent Lt. Gen. Robert E. Kelley has been named the seventh President of Freedoms Foundation. He succeeds the retiring Rear Admiral Richard C. Ustick, USN (Ret).

“Kelley impressed the search committee with his proven record of success, his dynamic leadership and understanding of the Foundation’s mission and the need for such a mission in today’s society, " Warren said in making the announcement. "An exceptional leader in the public and private sector, he will take the Foundation to the next level, building on the great tradition of this remarkable organization -- educating Americans about America."

Raised in New Canaan, Conn., Gen. Kelley is an aviator, an athlete and an educator. During his Air Force career he held many positions of importance and responsibility including Vice Commander of the Tactical Air Command, Superintendent of the U. S. Air Force Academy and Commander of the Tactical Fighter Weapons Center. He directed the general officer personnel management system and as a planner developed the Air Force fighter modernization strategy for the 1980s. He has more than 4,000 flying hours in tactical fighter aircraft from the F-86 to the F-15 and F-16. He flew 119 combat missions in the F-4 Phantom in Vietnam and holds many military decorations including the Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, Air Medal, Vietnam Armed Forces Honor Medal and the Gallantry Cross with Palm.

Following his Air Force career he founded a defense consulting firm and an international sports marketing company. He also served as CEO of the Nevada Development Authority, co-authored: "An Operational Evaluation of the Utility of Thrust Vectoring for Advanced Fighter Maneuvering," was the Senior Military Advisor to the USAF "Gulf War Air Power Survey" and re-engineered a software development company. In 1996, he and his wife, author Patricia Austin Kelley, founded the Wright Stuff Press Arizona. The New York Society of International Affairs published his article on the enlargement of NATO in September 1998.

In 1998, he was chairman of the board for Kids Voting USA. He currently serves on the Board of Advisors of the Jewish Institute for National Security Affairs, the Board of Directors of the Air Force Academy Foundation, the Valley of the Sun Chapter of the Football Foundation and M-Power Corporation.

Awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Science from the University of Nevada in 1983, he is a graduate of the National War College, earned his Master of Science from George Washington University and his Bachelor of Science from Rutgers University.

An avid athlete throughout his life, he captained the varsity football and lacrosse teams at Rutgers, was selected All-America three years in lacrosse, and elected to the Hall of Fame in 1985. He was the first varsity lacrosse coach at the Academy and served on the Board of the Lacrosse Foundation from 1994-97. This year, he won a national championship in his age group in squash.

"Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge is a very intriguing opportunity for me and the vision of America's School for Citizenship Education inspiring tomorrow's leaders of our communities is exciting and timely. The historic location of the campus was an added feature that made this decision right for Patricia and me. I am looking forward to a long and productive relationship with this world-class organization," Gen. Kelley said.

Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge is among the nationÂ’s premier organizations devoted to citizenship-based education and the promotion of responsible citizenship. Founded in 1949 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower and prominent American business leaders, Freedoms Foundation continues to conduct national awards programs that recognize excellence in education and civic involvement. The FoundationÂ’s National Awards, Leavey Awards for Excellence in Private Enterprise Education, and Distinguished Awards programs have recognized more than 50,000 individuals and organizations since the FoundationÂ’s inception.

With headquarters on an historic 105-acre campus adjacent to Valley Forge National Historical Park, it conducts educational programs for elementary, intermediate and high school students that focus on the balance of rights and responsibilities associated with citizenship in 21st Century America. Freedoms Foundation, with 29 chapters in 17 states, also conducts graduate seminars and workshops for educators that study issues relating history to todayÂ’s problems, responsible citizenship, and the benefits of the free enterprise system.

For more information on Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge, visit the web site at www. ffvf. org, or contact the Foundation at 1-800-896-5488.

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The Next Three Years

The Next Three Years...

Where we will be in the next three years and how to protect and even profit from it...

Sugar Land, TX (PRWEB) October 13, 2008

I'm sending this because I want you to be as prepared as possible for what is coming. The following views are my personal opinions on what I see happening.

Confidence in the system has been lost. What we've seen so far is just the beginning, and it truly makes me sad to have to write this.

Most people have no clue about what's really going on, and since Karl and I started WMI in January of 2005, we have done our absolute best to make sure that our Members are educated and ready for this possibility. Unfortunately for all of us, it's become a reality.

Here's What The Next 3 Years Will Likely Look Like:

Unemployment will rise from 6% to over 15-20%. You or people you know and care about will lose their job.

Home prices will go down for the next 3-5 years, and in some areas will drop 30-50% from current prices.

Large and small banks will fail all over the world, and "bank runs" will be a common occurrence.

The US Dollar will fall 30-50% from current levels, causing massive inflation.

We will experience a "near Depression" that will feel like a serious Depression for millions.

If you're in the Middle Class, you will likely slide into poverty unless you take action.

But while most people will suffer, you have an opportunity to prosper.

A massive number of millionaires will be made during this very painful period, while sadly, millions will be made homeless as well. You don't have to come to this m2. I'm not going to twist your arm. It's your future, not mine, but I will say this... If you do come, it will be the most valuable 4 days of your life, and here's why…

You'll meet Mr. G Edward Griffin. THE economic researcher that predicted this exact scenario well over a decade ago, and he'll provide you with a specific game plan for the prepared.

Robert Kiyosaki's person advisor on gold and silver, Mr. Mike Maloney, will be in attendance, and will teach you how to protect your money, and take advantage of the biggest "wealth transfer" in the history of mankind.

Mr. Chuck Butler is one of the world's most renowned economists, who has called the economy and stock markets moves each and every step of the way like a prophet. You'll learn his step-by-step game plan that will help you make timely, wise, personal decisions that will help you protect your wealth and prosper immensely.

These "three kings" will be joined by more than 15 world class experts in the areas of legacy building wealth creation opportunities, finance, real estate, credit, asset protection, wealth acceleration, personal success and empowerment, great health (naturally), and much, much, more.

This is it. This is a time that will go down in history, and this is why WMI was created.

This is why you're a part of this group. Now is a time to be decisive. You can't afford to sit on the sidelines and there are no "do-over's". You will most likely be wiped out unless you take control of your financial destiny, but as always, the choice is yours.

If you're going to overcome this… If you're ready to take responsibility for your freedom, prosperity, and your future, I expect to see you at m2.

My sincere and best wishes to all,

Kip Herriage

CEO, Wealth Masters International

About Wealth Masters International:
Wealth Masters International (WMI) is a Texas based L. L.C who was incorporated in January 2005 and is one of the fastest growing companies in this industry. WMI features a combination of world class education, services, and strategies along with proven Independent Consultants that have extensive, successful track records in their respective fields. WMI markets to individual consumers looking for cutting edge, powerful solutions that assist them in every important area of their life.

Working through top-ranked alliances, Members have access to financial and estate planning, wealth creation strategies, tax minimization, debt relief, health and wellness, credit planning and restoration, personal empowerment and an income opportunity uniquely structured for professional entrepreneurs.

Now is the time to join one of the fastest growing companies in the industry. Now is the time to join Wealth Masters International.

If you would like more information regarding this topic, please visit http://www. wmitoday. com or contact WMI directly at (832) 532-7655 or at Marketing@wmitoday. com. Be sure to check out the WMI Blog today at wealthmastersinc. blogspot. com for all of the latest updates.

# # #

John Taylor Gatto Coming to Los Angeles

John Taylor Gatto Coming to Los Angeles

Gatto keynotes on "Teaching How to Raise an Entrepreneur" at the Entrepreneur Days Conference in Irvine, California.

Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) August 17, 2006

John Taylor Gatto, the renowned New York Teacher of the Year, will be a keynote speaker at the Entrepreneur Days to be held the Atrium Hotel at Orange County Airport in Irvine, California, on the weekend of August 24-26, 2006.

While keynoting at this unique business conference for teens and parents, John Taylor Gatto will be discussing how to train children to become self sufficient entrepreneurs. While most graduates are just wanting jobs, many young people are launching their own businesses. John Taylor Gatto addresses how to train this later group.

“At Rhea’s Entrepreneur Days, I gained a vision for what was possible as a successful entrepreneur, got the specialized education I needed to move ahead, and began taking action on what I was learning;” says Mary Jo Tate, a divorced mother of 4. “I don’t need food stamps anymore, and I expect to double my income next year.”

Along with John Taylor Gatto, Bob Circosta, former Home Shopping Network's Vice President of Sales and Vice President of Sales Training and Development will offer a workshop on Creating Offline Products for parents and teens.

Other topics include learning stock market options, investing in real estate, selling on eBay, Internet marketing, entrepreneurial publishing and learning how to get out of debt.

To get more information about the conference go to www. entrepreneurdays. com

###

Mafiaboy To Address IT360° Conference & Expo on Why the Internet is Still Broken

Mafiaboy To Address IT360° Conference & Expo on Why the Internet is Still Broken

IT360° Conference & Expo (http://www. it360.ca) announces famed hacker Michael Calce, aka Mafiaboy, as the event's opening keynote address at 9:30am on April 8, 2009 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. After launching attacks that paralyzed the websites of Amazon, eBay, CNN and other major Internet properties in 2000, Calce, then 15 years-old, was apprehended after an investigation by the RCMP and FBI. Using his experience as a cautionary tale, Calce will address IT360° attendees.

Toronto, ON (PRWEB) March 7, 2009

IT360° Conference & Expo (http://www. it360.ca (http://www. it360.ca)) announces famed hacker Michael Calce, aka Mafiaboy, as the event's opening keynote address at 9:30am on April 8, 2009 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. After launching attacks that paralyzed the websites of Amazon, eBay, CNN and other major Internet properties in 2000, Calce, then 15 years-old, was apprehended after an investigation by the RCMP and FBI. For almost a decade Calce ignored requests for interviews and kept silent about the attacks. Using his experience as a cautionary tale, Calce will address IT360° attendees as he shares his story and offers his views on how hacking and Internet vulnerabilities have evolved since his crimes.

"Since my attacks, I have watched the Internet become an even more integral part of business and everyday life. At the same time, the number of vulnerabilities has increased. This keynote gives me an opportunity to share my story and perspective on IT security with leading members of the Canadian industry, and help raise awareness about the need for better security education and practices within the office, and inside of our homes.," said Michael Calce.

Calce's keynote will be conducted in a unique format. He will be interviewed by Craig Silverman, co-author of Mafiaboy: How I Cracked The Internet and Why It's Still Broken. Questions from the audience will be taken at the conclusion of the keynote interview.

Bruce Cole, president of Plum Communications Inc. and producer of IT360°, says, "Michael and Craig will examine past security issues; where we were, where we are and the current state of the industry. This live interview will be very topical and timely given the challenges we all face to secure our businesses. Their insights should be very provocative."

Registration is now open for IT360° Conference & Expo, Canada's only comprehensive IT event dedicated to providing business professionals complete IT solutions. Calce and Silverman's keynote is included in all registrations.

About IT360° Conference & Expo 2009:
IT360° Conference and Expo is an IT360 Inc. (http://www. it360.ca (http://www. it360.ca)) event managed by Plum Communications working in partnership with ITWorld Canada addresses the critical issues facing the industry while providing realistic strategies to enable the implementation of the best and most cost efficient solutions. Plum Communications Inc. is a leading Canadian organizer of community-based IT events "Cultivating Innovation in Technology" since 1984 focusing on what companies are doing and how IT professionals are implementing new systems. http://www. it360.ca (http://www. it360.ca)

About Michael Calce, aka Mafiaboy:
Michael Calce gained notoriety as the hacker Mafiaboy and pleaded guilty to fifty-six charges. After serving his sentence, he worked for a major computer retailer, wrote a computer security column for Le Journal de Montreal, and co-authored the book Mafiaboy. He now uses his knowledge to help people and businesses protect themselves online. He lives in Montreal.

About Craig Silverman:
Craig Silverman is an award-winning journalist and author. His writing has also appeared in publications such as The New York Times, The Globe And Mail, Toronto Star, Montreal Gazette, and Report On Business magazine. He has written about hacking and information security for a variety of publications and spent three years at Zero-Knowledge Systems, an online privacy and security company. He is the editor of http://www. regrettheerror. com (http://www. regrettheerror. com) and co-author of Mafiaboy.

For further information contact:
Stephanie Cole, Event Publicist, IT360, 905.695.0123 x211
Stephen Myers, Senior Publicist, Penguin Group (Canada) 416.928.2420

###

American Financial Network Hires Impact Communications to Promote Business Services: Top Financial Advisor Brett S. Ellen Expands Collaborative Services Platform

American Financial Network Hires Impact Communications to Promote Business Services: Top Financial Advisor Brett S. Ellen Expands Collaborative Services Platform

Brett Ellen, President of American Financial Network (AFN) announced today that he has engaged Impact Communications to help promote the Collaborative Services Platform, the firm's planning solution for business owners and executives. "While most privately-held companies have benefits programs in place, few owners have adequately addressed the complex tax, compensation and risk management issues that offer opportunities to maximize income and minimize corporate and individual tax liabilities," said Ellen. "AFN has extensive expertise in these areas and we want to get the word out both to individuals and organizations that can benefit from our services and to other advisors who want to serve this important segment of the market."

Calabasas, CA (PRWEB) August 18, 2009

Brett Ellen, President of American Financial Network (AFN) announced today that he has engaged Impact Communications to help promote the Collaborative Services Platform, the firm's planning solution for business owners and executives. "While most privately-held companies have benefits programs in place, few owners have adequately addressed the complex tax, compensation and risk management issues that offer opportunities to maximize income and minimize corporate and individual tax liabilities," said Ellen. "AFN has extensive expertise in these areas and we want to get the word out both to individuals and organizations that can benefit from our services and to other advisors who want to serve this important segment of the market."

AFN also works with executives in large public corporations to help them maximize their compensation benefits. For quite some time there has been a decided shift away from defined benefit plans, where company sponsors determine investment decisions, to the defined contribution plans, where participants are obliged to make their own investment decisions. As corporations have sought to limit financial liabilities, plan participants have had to become extremely active in their own retirement planning and shoulder the burden.

In a defined contribution plan, participants have full responsibility for portfolio strategy, fund selection, asset allocation, performance tracking and tax implications. Realistically, however, few top executives have the time, background or inclination to actively manage their retirement programs. And, if they do, most will look at their investments separately, as stand alone investments. Financial elements such as deferred compensation plans, defined benefit plans, 401(k)s, annuities, IRAs, supplemental executive retirement plans (SERPs), personal investments or real estate, are complex and should be viewed as an integrated whole in order to understand their full potential and fund maximum retirement dollars.

In nonqualified defined contribution retirement plans, including SERPs, there is a great deal of flexibility and freedom for asset allocation. But this freedom carries with it the financial burden to structure plans more carefully than ever before. And that requires the combined expertise of a solid benefits planning consultant and a seasoned financial planner capable of designing plans that meet individual retirement goals and, often, very different objectives. Ellen and his team of affiliates - the Financial Solutions Alliance - work extensively with corporate executives to develop the most effective strategy for maximizing both current and deferred compensation benefits.

In addition to working directly with clients on these types of issues, Ellen has developed the Collaborative Services Platform to serve as a training center for advisors, regardless of their RIA or broker/dealer affiliation, to learn the intricacies of the deferred compensation / retirement landscape. The 2-day, highly interactive training program (for which CE credits are available) is followed by monthly continuing education calls. "The advisors we work with are already successful planners," says Ellen. "What they are looking to do is develop their expertise in this business-oriented field as a way to better serve their current clients and expand their practice to serve the business market. During our training sessions, we lose count of the "aha" moments, as participants grasp the technical details and recognize the additional value they can bring to clients."

CSP trainings are held several times per year. The next training will be September 14 - 16, in Santa Monica, CA.

For more information about planning services or the Collaborative Services Platform training, contact Denise Villanueva at dvillanueva(at)afn-net(dot)com or (818) 264-4989.

About Brett Ellen and American Financial Network
Brett Ellen, founder and president of American Financial Network, is a financial planner and investment advisor representative with Securities America Advisors who specializes in wealth
Management and corporate benefit planning services. Additionally, Ellen established and is an active part of the Financial Solutions Alliance, a network of financial service providers from across the country that work collaboratively to address the financial and business needs of their clients. Unprecedented in his ability to serve both individual investors and corporate planners, Ellen is recognized by Securities America as their top advisor.

As a California native, Ellen believes strongly in giving back to his community. He and his firm actively support a variety of non-profit organizations. In 2008, the Muscular Dystrophy Association awarded Ellen the prestigious Humanitarian of the Year Award for his philanthropic endeavors and dedication towards making a difference. In 2001 he and his wife, inspired by their children, formed their own non-profit. TKOHelpingHands. org (Turn Kindness On) promotes community involvement and social responsibilities in young children. Ellen also posts the Kids' Finance Coach (www. coachbrett. blogspot. com), a blog for children to help them understand money and finance. For more information about Brett Ellen and the Collaborative Services Platform, visit www. afn-net. com.

About Impact Communications, Inc.
Founded by industry veteran Marie Swift in 1993, Impact Communications specializes in developing effective client communications and marketing strategies for a select group of highly successful financial advisors and allied institutions. Widely respected as a marketing professional with a loyal following, Swift, along with her team, works with independent advisors and select institutions to increase both visibility and credibility within their niche markets. In addition to marketing strategy and media promotions, the firm offers clients graphic design services and executive coaching. For more information visit www. impactcommunications. org.

# # #

Wise Women Gathering for Miami Conference In July, with guest Dr. Joan Borysenko

Wise Women Gathering for Miami Conference In July, with guest Dr. Joan Borysenko

(PRWEB) April 29, 2000

Contact:  Karyn Altman, CenterPeace, Inc.

Phone: 305-672-7759  Fax: 305-672-7656

Email: centerpeace@mindspring. com

For Immediate Release:

The Wise Women Weekend 2000 with special guest Dr. Joan Borysenko 

July 15 & 16, Miami Beach

 The Wise Woman Weekend, two days of empowering and experiential workshops for women, returns to the Radisson Deauville Hotel on Miami Beach, July 15 &16th. This conference, which made its debut last summer, offers women simple techniques for surviving and thriving in today's busy and often stress-fill world. This yearÂ’s special guest/ keynote speaker is best selling author, internationally acclaimed lecturer, Dr. Joan Borysenko. Returning from last year are Linda Adler LCSW whoÂ’s recent past life workshops earned high acclaim, Synergy Yoga CenterÂ’s Gaia Buddhai, acupuncture physician Janet Galipo, publisher Dr. Susan Dubitsky and award winning singer/songwriter, Amy Carol Webb. Advance registration (prior June 15th ) is $229. For more details call CenterPeace, 305-672-7759.

The Wise Women Weekend 2000, an enhanced version of last yearÂ’s successful program will also serve as the introduction to the WISE WOMEN INSTITUTE, a non-profit foundation focused on producing educational programs on health and wellness for women and teens. This foundation will be the driving force behind the national tour of the Wise Women Weekend. Six different US cities are now under consideration for the year 2001, with the goal of presenting ten conferences in different locations per year (plus the annual South Florida conference) by the 2002.

The Wise Women Weekend, created by and for women, was designed to help women maintain health and balance using proven holistic methods while offering a first-hand opportunity to connect with inner wisdom and guidance. In addition to Dr. Borysenko’s keynote address, “From Girl To Wise Woman, the physiology, biology, psychology of the female life cycle”, workshop topics include “Extraordinary Self-Care in Times of Crisis”; “Staying Safe and Protected As We Age”, “Six points to Optimum wellness”; “The Physiology and Management of Stress”; “Personal Empowerment”, a Two Hour Yoga Intensive and a Journey Ito Past Lives. The conference admission includes a welcome breakfast (Sat.) and a banquet lunch (Sun.).

Facilitators are highly qualified professionals, each recognized in their individual field; Dr. Joan Borysenko, medical scientist & psychologist is the author of 9 books and 4 best-selling audiocassette programs, a former instructor in medicine at Harvard Medical School and a pioneer in integrative medicine. In addition to the returning facilitators mentioned above, this yearÂ’s presenters include conselor/hypnotherapist/minister Sonya Lugo, life-coach Minx Boren, Broward County Detective Sandy McCullough whoÂ’s special reports on female safety have appeared on national tv, stress physiologist Sarena Morello, RN Margaret Williamson, whoÂ’s credentials include certification in conflict resolution and Graziela Ferreti, well-known for workshops on quigong and breath-work.

CenterPeace creates and produces seminars, workshops and travel adventures, focused on holistic health, enhancing relationships and connecting with inner guidance. For further information, details about upcoming events or a brochure, call 305-672-7759.

 # # #

Just-Posted. com Moves To The Head of the Class with schools. Just-Posted. com

Just-Posted. com Moves To The Head of the Class with schools. Just-Posted. com

Career minded professionals find a higher form of education search with schools. Just- Posted. com.

(PRWEB) August 11, 2005

Just-Posted, the InternetÂ’s fastest growing career resource services portal, announced today the launch of schools. Just-Posted. com (http://schools. Just-Posted. com (http://schools. Just-Posted. com)) - an online school research Web property created to help working adults understand and make choices about their education options.

"schools. Just-Posted. com - a one-stop resource for free school information - enables visitors to research over 100 accredited colleges and universities with just one-click," related Jeff Tokarz, Just-Posted's CEO/President." "schools. Just-Posted. com takes the mystery and confusion out of the school research process and makes it fast, easy and relevant."

About Just-Posted

Just-PostedÂ’s innovative Internet search technologies connect thousands thousands of job seekers, employers, career resource services providers and career minded professionals every day. A privately held company, Just-Posted was started by Jeff Tokarz and is headquartered in Rochester, New York. For more information, please visit http://schools. Just-Posted. com (http://schools. Just-Posted. com).

Contact:

Jeff Tokarz

Just-Posted

585-315-2027

Http://schools. Just-Posted. com (http://schools. Just-Posted. com)

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Vivacare Patient Education Service Enhancements Save Medical Practices Time and Money and Improve Patient Satisfaction

Vivacare Patient Education Service Enhancements Save Medical Practices Time and Money and Improve Patient Satisfaction

Recent enhancements to Vivacare's Web-based patient education service used by medical practices to deliver health information to patients leads to reduced costs, improved practice workflow and increased patient satisfaction.

Berkeley, CA (PRWEB) July 7, 2009

Vivacare (http://vivacare. com) has recently enhanced its Web-based patient education service, providing medical practices with time and cost savings and an easy-to-implement means to improve patient satisfaction.

Vivacare Inc. provides medical practices with the "From Your Doctor" (http://fromyourdoctor. com/) patient education service. Enrolled practices receive a variety of Web-based patient education tools at no cost, including a Patient Education Library and Patient eNewsletter function.

Recent upgrades to the Patient Education Library enable physicians with no programming skills to personalize the content to reflect their unique approach to care. Patient handouts appear online with the practice's name at the top and can be printed conveniently by the patient at home. By using Vivacare, medical practices can fulfill their patients' desire for online health education with minimal effort by simply telling them "go to our Website".

The Patient eNewsletter function provides medical practices with a paperless means to announce new services, staff hires, awards, or community events. Vivacare recently began enhancing the Patient eNewsletter with specialty-specific medical news stories to provide patients with practical and up-to-date health information.

"Vivacare is an excellent patient education resource tool," says Kate Othus, MHA Administrator of Portland Dermatology Clinic, LLP. (http://www. portlanddermclinic. com). "Our Internet savvy patients are directed to our website and if they want more information about their disease - it's all right there. The service saves us hundreds of dollars per month in handout copying and brochure costs while also supporting our efforts to 'go green". Patients have the option to then print any of our handouts themselves, or simply review online."

In an online small sample survey of physicians, 76% stated that it is "helpful" or "very helpful" to refer patients to their own Website for educational content. 67% of them stated that doing so would increase patient satisfaction, 57% stated that it would save time during patient discharge, 48% stated it would reduce incoming phone calls regarding treatment, and 48% stated it would increase patient adherence to therapy.

Dr. Ron Reece (http://dermatology. fromyourdoctor. com/california/redding/ronreecemd/health/library. do), a dermatologist in Redding, California shared how offering patient education resources online helped his practice reach new patients. "I find that having an informative website is important to attracting potential patients and for educating patients that I already have.  To that end "Vivacare" has enhanced my website," said Dr. Reece.

"The positive feedback from the physician community has been tremendous," says Dr. Mark Becker, pediatrician and founder of Vivacare. "Our services meets the unique and varying needs of different practices. For some, it's the ability to self-publish their own content online, while for others it's offering their patients online access to medication rebate coupons, or sharing their clinical opinion in a newsletter that has the most benefit. Vivacare's service components help practices save time and money, and provide a better experience for their patients."

About Vivacare:
Vivacare (www. vivacare. com]), based in Berkeley, CA, is a patient education company that helps physicians to educate their patients with the goal of improved clinical care and patient satisfaction. Vivacare has developed services to meet the practice needs of 12 medical specialties, including allergists, cardiologists, dermatologists, neurologists, rheumatologists and primary care physicians.

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Student Loans, There May Be Financial Aid Relief Ahead

Student Loans, There May Be Financial Aid Relief Ahead

Student loans such as college loan consolidation, financial aid, federal Stafford loans, private education and tuition assistance are some of the student loan related articles at http://www. christianet. com/studentloans/.

Houston, TX (PRWEB) February 19, 2007

ChristiaNet. com (http://www. christianet. com (http://www. christianet. com)), the world's largest Christian portal with twelve million monthly page loads, has just launched a directory about student loans including information on federal Stafford loans and financial aid. Bill Cooper, President of ChristiaNet is committed to helping readers get the best information available on acquiring student loans and the latest information on what is currently being done that may affect these types of loans.

"More Americans today are seeking a college education than ever before, and most have to rely on student loans in order to do so," says, Cooper. (http://www. christianet. com/studentloans/ (http://www. christianet. com/studentloans/))

According to the Public Interest Research Group (PIRG), "more than two-thirds of students now borrow to pay for their education." Part of the reason for this growing phenomenon could be attributed to the large amount of information that is available on the Internet as well as the ability to apply for financial aid online through FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Cooper says, "Subsidized federal Stafford loans and Pell Grants are awarded to students who qualify. Subsidized loans have to be paid back but Pell Grants don't."

The PIRG says, there are 5.5 million students that currently use Stafford Loans to get a college education and most of them are from low to middle income families. Cooper adds, "Federal Stafford loans are subsidized by the government. This means that the government pays the interest on these loans until 6 months after the student graduates." According to PIRG, in California, "the average subsidized loan debt for a 4 year graduate is $15,125." Students who attend private schools will owe much more than this because tuition costs are higher.

In response to this increasing phenomenon of Americans borrowing money to continue their education, the House passed a bill that will provide some relief on loan interest paid by college students and increase the amount for Pell Grants that are awarded over the next 5 years. Currently the maximum award for Pell Grants is around $4,050 per year for each student that qualifies. Cooper says, "Pell Grant money is often used for out of pocket expenses such as the costs of books, however, Pell Grant money awarded may actually go towards tuition costs instead of to the student for out of pocket expenses." For more information, visit: http://www. christianet. com/articles/ (http://www. christianet. com/articles/)

About ChristiaNet

ChristiaNet. com (http://www. christianet. com (http://www. christianet. com)), the world's largest Christian portal with twelve million monthly page loads, receives around one million visitors per month and has 400,000 email subscribers who have access to an online shopping mall, job bank, Biblical and life application resources, free ecards, Christian blogs and friendship communities.

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Argosy Grad Publishes Book on Military Contracting

Argosy Grad Publishes Book on Military Contracting

Dr. Rene Rendon, a graduate of Argosy University/Orange County, has published a book on military contracting. He is a senior lecturer at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, Calif.

Santa Ana, Calif. (PRWEB) June 7, 2007

Today's military personnel need to know more than how to fire weapons and hunt down enemies. They must also know how to handle multi-million dollar contracts for high-tech weapon systems.

These are some of the lessons that Dr. Rene G. Rendon teaches at the United States Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, Calif. A former resident of southern California, Rendon is a senior lecturer in the school's Master of Business Administration (MBA) program. He graduated with a Doctorate of Business Administration degree from Argosy University's Orange County campus in 2003 and is also a member of the university's Alumni Council.

"The Department of Defense does not build weapon systems like missiles and aircraft," said Rendon, who teaches courses on acquisition and contract management. "All of these weapon system programs are awarded to major defense contractors like Lockheed Martin and Boeing, to name a few."

Rendon has extensive experience overseeing military contracts and dealing with major defense corporations. He has also conducted research for the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense (Acquisitions, Technology and Logistics), as well as the U. S. Navy.

Before he became a college professor, Rendon served for more than 22 years as a contracting and acquisitions officer in the Air Force. He worked as a contracting officer for the F-22 Raptor program. The F-22 Raptor is a radar-evading fighter, which has been designated as the military's main warplane for the 21st century. The F-22 Raptor is estimated to cost about $300 million per plane. Rendon also worked on the Peacekeeper Intercontinental Ballistic Missile program.

Rendon was also the director of contracting for the Air Force's space and surveillance satellite and space launch rocket programs, and served as contracting squadron commander for an Air Force pilot training base.

Rendon has authored two books. He recently co-authored U. S. Military Program Management: Lessons Learned and Best Practices, and he published "Contract Management: Organizational Assessment Tools" in 2005. Both books are used by students at the United States Naval Postgraduate School. Rendon's most recent publication focuses on how the military manages outsourcing on various defense contracts.

"The U. S. Department of Defense and the related defense industry develop some of the most expensive and complex systems ever created. U. S. Military Program Management presents a unique and exhaustive account of what it takes to manage major U. S. military programs and offers recommendations for improving practices in the future. More than 15 leading experts present case studies, best practices and lessons from the Army, Navy, and Air Force from both the government and industry/contractor perspective in the book," Rendon said.

Dr. Jeb Egbert, president of Argosy University's Orange County campus, said that faculty members are very proud of Rendon's professional success. "Argosy University's flexible programs, which include online, evening and weekend courses, are perfect for working professionals," Egbert said. "Our flexible programs are able to attract gifted students like Rene."

Most of the students in the Naval Postgraduate School's MBA program are officers in the Army, Navy, Air Force and the Marine Corps. After graduating, they are typically assigned to jobs overseeing the management of weapon system programs. "There is a big demand for these educated officers because the government is contracting and outsourcing many of the services previously performed by people in the Department of Defense," Rendon said. "Their skills and experience are very critical and valuable to the Department of Defense."

Rendon's doctoral thesis focused on how large organizations assess and manage outsourced projects. It was the basis of his first book, which is referenced by students at the Naval Postgraduate School. It also helped him get into teaching full time at the Naval Postgraduate School after he retired from the Air Force. Rendon had previously taught part-time at UCLA Extension and the Keller Graduate School of Management in Los Angeles.

For more information about Argosy University's Orange County campus, call (714) 338- 6200 or visit www. argosyu. edu/orangecounty (http://www. argosyu. edu/orangecounty). U. S. Military Program Management is available at amazon. com.

Argosy University's Orange County campus is one of 18 Argosy University (www. argosyu. edu) locations in 12 states. Argosy University offers doctoral and master's degree programs in clinical and counseling psychology, business and education. Argosy University also offers bachelor's degree completion programs in psychology and business, and associate's degree programs in various health sciences fields. Argosy University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association (NCA) (30 N. LaSalle Street, Suite 2400, Chicago, IL 60602, (800) 621-7440; www. ncahlc. org).

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Are You Searching for More?

Are You Searching for More?

Announcement of a large, easily understood course on Developing Spirituality. Course is written without using confusing metaphysical terms.

(PRWEB) July 31, 2005

Many people, from college students to senior citizens, are searching for something more than what is taught in traditional religions. They are seeking answers to a great many spiritual questions. For many of those people, the answers are now available.

Spirit Circle (http://spirit-circle. org/ (http://spirit-circle. org/)) is a not for profit, international spiritual organization that endorses no single religion, but embraces all positive spiritual paths. Some of Spirit Circle's goals are to help people of various faiths and cultures gain a better understanding of others. This is primarily done through education. What one person calls God, another calls The Great Spirit and a third may call Allah. We try to show that all are speaking of the same thing.

Spirit Circle's administration is preparing a three level course on Developing Spirituality. The first level, the basics is ready and work is continuing on Level II. This course is being written in clear, easily understandable English without a lot of confusing metaphysical terms. In the few instances where a metaphysical term is used, its meaning is explained fully and clearly. Topics such as life after death, karma, reincarnation, chakras, unconditional love and much more are covered in detail. Anyone who wishes to get a good, basic knowledge and understanding of spiritual concepts would do well to consider this course. This course is self paced and available to all. It can be found at: http://spirit-circle. org/Big-course/lesson1.html (http://spirit-circle. org/Big-course/lesson1.html)

This course is being prepared by Charles Grooms and Joyce Chandler, both of whom have Doctor of Arts degrees in spiritual studies.

Contact:

Charles Grooms

843-873-8113

Thespiritcircle@yahoo. com

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