CableFAX Publishes, in Partnership with The Cable Center, "Customer Experience Management Guidebook: Lessons and Insights for the Cable Industry"

CableFAX Publishes, in Partnership with The Cable Center, "Customer Experience Management Guidebook: Lessons and Insights for the Cable Industry"

Arguably the area that cable has spent most of its time and energy addressing in the past few years is customer service. To share some of today’s best practices in customer care and customer experience management, CableFAX, in collaboration with The Cable Center, has published a guidebook, Customer Experience Management: Lessons and Insights for the Cable Industry. Intended exclusively for the cable industry, the book presents the collected customer experience expertise of cable executives, international business people, consultants and academics. The result is a practical strategy document bolstered by the theoretical and academic underpinnings of customer experience management, the school of thought that is revolutionizing the field of customer care.

Rockville, MD (PRWEB) May 25, 2010

Arguably the area that cable has spent most of its time and energy addressing in the past few years is customer service. To share some of today’s best practices in customer care and customer experience management, CableFAX, in collaboration with The Cable Center, has published a guidebook, Customer Experience Management: Lessons and Insights for the Cable Industry. Intended exclusively for the cable industry, the book presents the collected customer experience expertise of cable executives, international business people, consultants and academics. The result is a practical strategy document bolstered by the theoretical and academic underpinnings of customer experience management, the school of thought that is revolutionizing the field of customer care.

The book’s scope and depth are bound to include strategies, tactics and ideas to enhance the bottom line of every cable business. The book includes: the basics of customer experience management; how to measure customer experience; tactics for using social media to enhance customer experience; how to make process and product improvements to better customer experience; training tips and methods for improving communication with customers and staff; and case studies and interviews with executives from companies who’ve improved their bottom line through the use of customer experience management principles.

CableFAX chose to collaborate with The Cable Center owing to The Center’s extensive involvement with the study and practice of customer care and customer experience. Periodically The Cable Center convenes senior cable care executives, consultants and academics for exchanges on this topic, whose ideas translate directly to cable operators’ bottom lines. In many ways this book represents the insights of the executives, academics and consultants who’ve gathered at The Cable Center to discuss customer care and customer experience management.

There’s no denying that customer service is a topic of interest to service providers in all industries, cable included. Cable’s business model and its products are vastly changed from years ago. Not only is cable today talking about improving customer service, it’s doing so - and not only for residential customers, but for its growing business-class clients. This guidebook presents some of the most important business strategies in customer experience management.

More than 65 contributors from business, academia and consulting organizations contributed to this guidebook, including:

Charter Communications, Cox Communications, Comcast Communications, Time Warner Cable, J. D. Power & Associates CSG Systems, UPC Broadband, CTHRA, Peppercom, Mulberry Consulting, Columbia University, Northwestern University, University of Denver, Olson Zaltman Associates, Innovar Partners, Morpace Research, , BOOTSRAP Pte Ltd., UnitedHealth Group, Queensland University of Technology, Speaking of Customer Service LLC, Mixed Signals, StarTek, Inc., ITF Advisors, Sand Cherry Associates, Diamond-Cloud Consulting, Broader Vision, Philips Home Controls, Affiliated Computer Services, WOW! Internet-Cable-Phone, Clear Channel Outdoor, Stull WordWorks, Wartburg College and BI Worldwide.

“From ways to begin using customer experience management to far more advanced concepts, this book includes tactics, strategies and lessons that can be applied to a wide range of cable companies,” said the book’s Editor-in-Chief Seth Arenstein, who also is CableFAX’s editorial director. Jana Henthorn, SVP of Programs and Education at The Cable Center and Professors Charles Patti and Ronald Rizzuto of The University of Denver, who are also Senior Fellows at The Cable Center, served as the book’s editors.

While customer service as a discipline remains, many concepts have changed. It’s no longer just about customer service, but providing customers with “an experience.” Managing a business with this in mind has lead to the concept and study of what the business world calls customer experience management, or CEM. Ideas like CEM require a change in business culture, leadership, management and how we view customers. The many contributors to this guidebook apply those key ingredients to their advice and tactics while adding their own special spice.

Order your copy today at www. cablefax. com/CEMBook (http://www. cablefax. com/CEMBook).

*** As an adjunct activity to the guidebook, on June 22, 1:30pm-3pm ET, CableFAX will feature several
Authors from the book during a Webinar about customer experience management and the influence social media and e-care have had on it. Register Today at http://www. cablefax. com/cfp/webinars/customer_care_june22.html (http://www. cablefax. com/cfp/webinars/customer_care_june22.html)

About CableFAX
CableFAX is the most trusted brand in the industry, providing cable executives with the most original, comprehensive and insightful overview of the latest industry news and strategic initiatives. CableFAX offerings include a wide range of resources for cable professionals, including CableFAX Daily, CableFAX: The Magazine, award programs, Webinars, networking events and workshop. For more information, visit www. CableFAX. com.

About The Cable Center
The Cable Center is the nonprofit educational arm of the cable industry. A leading resource for information, education and expertise on cable telecommunications, The Cable Center unites the cable community by preserving and celebrating cable's enduring contributions to society; building bridges between cable and higher education; and bringing together industry participants to share ways to better serve its customers. Based in Denver, Colo., The Cable Center's program areas include the Cable Mavericks Lecture Series, Customer Care Central, Professional Education, the Cable Hall of Fame and the Barco Library. Please visit www. cablecenter. org for more information.

###

American Health Association Invites Lt. Colonel Weinstein, Beach Boot Camp Instructor and Motivational Coach, as Guest Speaker on May 20th, 2004, 10:00 am at Heritage Park West in Delray Beach, Florida

American Health Association Invites Lt. Colonel Weinstein, Beach Boot Camp Instructor and Motivational Coach, as Guest Speaker on May 20th, 2004, 10:00 am at Heritage Park West in Delray Beach, Florida

This is a must experience event. Bob brings to the table over 25 years of leadership and fitness experience. Colonel Weinstein is best described as high energy, enthusiastic, fun, humorous, motivational, inspirational and informative. Bob has a heart for seniors and wants to share his message of happy and healthy living with them. He is a dynamic motivational speaker. He will be featured on the History Channel in the series "Tactical to Practical" on July 6th, 2004. His health and wellness business, Fountain of Youth Fitness, is located in Fort Lauderdale and his website can be found at www. BeachBootCamp. net.

(PRWEB) May 7, 2004

Colonel Weinstein will take the audience that he calls "the 60s Club" made up of those in their 60s, through a fun and inspiring journey of how to take charge of their health Â… and yes he will have all of them exercising as well. No falling asleep here. His talks and exercise sessions are known for lots of laughter and high energy. Come and experience the inspiration you have been always looking for to truly lead that healthy and happy life. Don't miss Colonel Weinstein. Call and make your reservation today at 561-361-9091. The entire event will be filmed and the press will be there.

Some of the topics Colonel Weinstein will be sharing about:

How to naturally maintain and increase bone density How to build muscle mass How to maintain healthy weight How to feel younger and have more energy Good and bad fats Good and bad carbs What fiber is really good for

This event is open to the public. All ages may attend. Call 561-361-9091 for reservations and directions to Heritage Park West, 5859 Heritage Park Way (just off of Via Flora), Delray Beach, Florida 33484, to reserve a seat. Seating is limited. The event will be in the Adam's Theater at Heritage Park West.

Directions to Heritage Park West:

Located just North of West Atlantic Avenue on Via Flora Road. 1 mile West of Military Trail. 3 miles West of Interstate Highway 95. 2-1/2 miles East of the Florida Turnpike. 1/2 mile from Heritage Park East Campus.

Bob will also share his "Seven Keys to PERMANENT Weight Loss" from his audio book. Asked about what really motivated Col. Weinstein to produce this audio book he responds, "I have been visiting my great aunt Erlie the past few months in an assisted living home. She's 90 years old and uses a walker. These visits have allowed me to really experience first hand the results of an unhealthy lifestyle. All those people who can hardly get around with their walkers and canes. Now some may say that this is what happens when you get old. No! It's what happens when you do not take charge of your lifestyle when it comes to your health! Longevity does not equate to quality of life. Seven out of ten Americans die from heart disease, cancer or stroke and the rest are just suffering along. It is a statistical fact that 90 percent of the health related issues that arise are lifestyle related. No... that's not what must happen to you when you get old! We pre-program the quality of our lives by how we live, today. We make that decision through our actions and must ask the tough questions, "Will I belong to the ninety percent who will end up with those lifestyle related diseases? Or will I take charge and make those positive changes that will ensure a happy and healthy life all the way up into those ripe old senior years?" Don't go with the flow on this one! Do it for yourself, your loved ones and especially our children. Stop the excuses. The statistics cry out for change! Are you listening?"

FOSTERING A NEW APPROACH TO AGING...The American Health Association is a unique non-profit organization designed to help you approach aging in a new and better way. The AHA encourages you to take charge of your health protocol by taking proactive, preventative steps, combining the best of East/West therapies in a healthier model. We aim to improve the quality and longevity of life.

The American Health Association currently offers five major programs to help you transition to a preventative aging model.

The American Volunteer Corps consists of individuals trained for volunteer and internship positions in a myriad of healing and helping disciplines. These are the people that make things happen. They’re an important part of the American Volunteer Corps. The Corps incorporates the Junior Volunteer Corps (JVC) and the Senior Volunteer Corps (SVC). The word “Senior” is used to indicate 'higher in rank, authority or experience' and not older, elder or retired. The Corps are volunteers who are trained for professional volunteer positions in a myriad of healing and helping disciplines including Peer Counselors, Mentorships, Grief and Bereavement and a whole host of specialized programs in the helping arts. Training consists of didactic & Socratic method of instruction in group format underscoring life experience and learning styles as a teaching methodology. The aim here is to give active adults the 4 P’s of continued life sustenance. Passion, Purpose with Productivity in a social Partnership with and in their respective communities. Once trained you are placed within 5 miles of a members home and in effect become “longevity coaches” to the community.

The Lifelong Learning Foundation provides courses that draw on the wisdom and experience of professionals and peers alike on topics such as "Understanding the Emotions of Grief."

The Center for Healthy Aging offers support groups that meet weekly, educational courses, and a host of outreach programs.

The Mental Health Foundation concentrates on outplacement mental health services that include re-socialization, re-skilling, job coaching and placement, housing, and social services.

The last major project is the Center for Healthcare Management. This component addresses the need for initiating and managing corporate health interventions in order to improve employee well-being and morale.

J. Robert Gordon is the founder and executive director of the American Health Association and is a psychotherapist in private practice who specializes in trauma and geriatric mental health care. In 2003, Rob received the "Public Citizen of the Year" award from the National Association of Social Workers, the "Citizen of the Year" from the Palm Beach Unit of NASW, and a local "Men with Caring Hearts" volunteer award. In the past, he assisted survivors of the Sept. 11, 2001 World Trade Center disaster and their families via the American Red Cross in New York. He has chaired emergency services for the Palm Beach County Chapter of the American Red Cross, and is now affiliated with the Martin County chapter. In addition to devoting many hours to the American Health Association, Rob is currently a disaster trainer with United Way of Palm Beach County's "Operation Step Up," and is prepared to assist in catastrophes, natural or otherwise, in Palm Beach County. He gives "homeland security" workshops for the United Way and Mental Health Foundation of the Palm Beaches.

Rob is also a self-described "recovering quadriplegic." At the age of 23, he was afflicted with Gillian-Barre Syndrome which left him paralyzed. For nearly a year, he was hospitalized and had to relearn everything as he slowly regained mobility. His experience is a testament to the will to survive and conquer the odds.

For more on the American Health Association go to their website at http://www. americanhealthfoundation. com (http://www. americanhealthfoundation. com)

For more press releases on Lt. Col. Weinstein go to his website at http://www. beachbootcamp. net (http://www. beachbootcamp. net)

About the Guest Speaker Lt. Col. Weinstein:

Born in Washington, D. C., grew up in Virginia, Bob spent twenty years in Berlin, Germany. He is retired from the Army Reserve as a Lieutenant Colonel with 30 years of service. He has been featured on television's Fox Sports Net and in the men's lifestyle magazine RAZOR. July 6th, 2004, he will be featured on the History Channel's series "Tactical to Practical". His background is unique and diverse... military instructor, attorney, motivational speaker, wellness coach, certified corporate trainer, certified personal trainer with ACE, and fluent in German and English. In furthering the fitness aspect of his military years, he started his own business "Fountain of Youth Fitness" and specializes in a military-style workout on Fort Lauderdale Beach that incorporates strength, cardio, flexibility and agility training, both personal training and group sessions. He is known as the Health Colonel and is a motivational speaker on topics of leadership, team building, sales, fitness, nutrition, health, wellness and the importance of the inter-relationships of people. Community service activities include volunteering as guest speaker for non-profit organizations, among others, the Arthritis Foundation and the Covenant House where he also trains juveniles on Fort Lauderdale Beach. He is also presently writing a book on health and wellness. His mission is to help others lead healthier and happier lives. More about the Health Colonel at www. BeachBootCamp. net.

RealeBooks Project Wins National Technology Innovation Award: Verizon Communications Lauds Use of E-Publishing Tool in Literacy Project

RealeBooks Project Wins National Technology Innovation Award: Verizon Communications Lauds Use of E-Publishing Tool in Literacy Project

A RealeBooks project with parents of the Family and Child Education (FACE) literacy program at Enemy Swim Day School in Waubay, South Dakota, is the national winner of the inaugural Verizon Tech Savvy Award. RealeBooks, a product of Colorado-based RealeStudios, provides e-publishing solutions to schools, businesses and service organizations around the world. The Verizon Tech Savvy Award was presented during the 16th annual National Conference on Family Literacy in Orlando, Florida.

Arvada, CO (PRWEB) March 21, 2007

A RealeBooks project with parents of the Family and Child Education (FACE) literacy program at Enemy Swim Day School in Waubay, South Dakota, is the national winner of the inaugural Verizon Tech Savvy Award. RealeBooks, a product of Colorado-based RealeStudios, provides e-publishing solutions to schools, businesses and service organizations around the world. The Verizon Tech Savvy Award was presented during the 16th annual National Conference on Family Literacy in Orlando, Florida.

"Realebooks are opening up a whole new world of possibilities for families who previously had limited access to books," said Michael McGuffee, RealeBooks CEO. "This award is a tremendous honor and reaffirms our commitment to increase literacy through technology." 

The Verizon Tech Savvy Award is a joint creation of the National Conference on Family Literacy, former Iowa First Lady Christie Vilsack and the Verizon Foundation. It is the first national award designed to provide an incentive for grassroots, community-based nonprofit organizations and schools to create programs that demystify technology for parents, enabling them to better guide their children in the use of new media. The RealeBooks project with Enemy Swim Day School was one of 85 programs nominated for the award.

In announcing the winner, Christie Vilsack said, "Enemy Swim's use of RealeBooks was so compelling that they were an easy choice for this award."

Parents in the FACE program use eBooks to celebrate their Dakota culture and language. Each month, they create four original picture books and distribute hundreds of copies in the community. Each RealeBook is created using digital photography, color laser printing and RealeWriter software.

"The RealeBooks project is the best thing that has happened to our program," said Dr. Sherry Johnson, Superintendent, Enemy Swim Day School. "Making eBooks allows our families to work with technology and literacy in a meaningful and inexpensive way to put books in the hands of children," Johnson said.

To learn more about RealeBooks' work with Families and Child Education, visit online: The FACE RealeLibrary (http://face. realelibrary. com)

RealeBooks is an information and communications technology (ICT) company that provides epublishing solutions to schools, businesses and service organizations. RealeBooks seeks to nurture a lifelong love of reading for the benefit of building communities where all members have open and equal access to literacy. To learn more about RealeBooks, RealeWriter and RealeLibrary, visit online: www. realebooks. com

###

Southwestern Company Named Top Intern Employer for 2010 by CollegeGrad. com

Southwestern Company Named Top Intern Employer for 2010 by CollegeGrad. com

Southwestern Company ranks as 2010 Top Intern Employer according to CollegeGrad. com

Nashville, TN (PRWEB) July 23, 2010

In an annual survey, CollegeGrad. com polls employers about the number of interns they plan to recruit, typically for the summer months. For 2010, Southwestern Company moved into the #1 position, up from #2 in 2009. Southwestern projects 2,750 interns from nearly 350 college and university campuses in North America and Europe.

Southwestern Company and the rest of the companies making the top ten are profiled on Forbes. com and featured in an accompanying article, “U. S. Companies That Hire the Most Interns.”

CollegeGrad. com’s Top 10 for 2010:

1. Southwestern Company, 2,750 interns
2. General Electric, 2,400
3. PricewaterhouseCoopers, 2,041
4. KPMG, 1,600
5. Ernst & Young, 1,571
6. Lockheed Martin, 1,493
7. Target Corporation, 1,200
8. Enterprise Rent-A-Car, 1,000
9. Northrop Grumman, 1,000
10. University Directories, 750

These companies cover a diverse range of industries, offering college students a variety of learning experiences. By participating in the summer internship with Southwestern Company, students are able to directly apply the life skills they will learn immediately after graduation to their future career in addition to making money to offset their educational expenses.

Compared to the other internship opportunities on the list, Southwestern Company is somewhat non-traditional. The college students run their own business using the direct selling business model, putting their legs to work by personally visiting families in their home to generate a customer base who may have a need for Southwestern Company’s educational products.

Established in 1855 in Nashville, TN, Southwestern Company is the oldest direct selling company in the U. S. The student internship program began in 1868. Southwestern Company is the core company of over a dozen companies that have sprung from the talent developed from the ranks of the interns. The sales-driven industries include: finance and investments, insurance, publishing, fundraising, consulting, fine art, executive search and other direct selling initiatives. For more information on Southwestern’s internship program, visit www. southwesterninternship. com. To learn about Southwestern Company, see www. southwestern. com.

###

Friends of Rabbits Announces Public Spay and Neuter All Rabbits! Fund

Friends of Rabbits Announces Public Spay and Neuter All Rabbits! Fund

Mid-Atlantic rabbit rescue charity Friends of Rabbits & House Rabbit Sanctuary announce the creation of the Spay & Neuter All Rabbits! fund, a public assistance fund aimed at reducing rabbit overpopulation through surgical sterilization and education. An anonymous donor will match donations up to $5,000.

Metropolitan Washington, DC./Baltimore (PRWEB) March 19, 2006

The newly merged companion rabbit advocacy groups, Friends of Rabbits & House Rabbit Sanctuary, announce the creation of the Spay & Neuter All Rabbits! fund. Just in time for an Easter kickoff, this fund intends to not only educate the public about the need for rabbit spaying and neutering but first and foremost to provide assistance to those who would otherwise be the least likely to seek this procedure for their pet rabbit.

Susan Wong, who is President of both Friends of Rabbits & House Rabbit Sanctuary, explains, “This year we want to make a difference for the rabbits by providing a spay & neuter program that will help defray the high cost of spays and neuters. The logic is that once people make the initial investment (financially and emotionally) to their rabbits with a little bit of help from us, they’ll discover a wonderful animal whose behavioral problems have been reduced.”

The hope is this will reduce the usual nightmare after Easter of discarded pet rabbits filling animal shelters to overflowing with the fluffy little animals that turned out to have a mind of their own and unexpected needs. Wong expounds, “People leave animals at shelters for numerous reasons including moving, a child’s lost interest, and behavioral problems. The first two reasons can be predictable and rabbit caregivers should be better prepared - planning ahead and seeking animal-friendly housing and understanding that children aren’t prepared to be responsible care-providers, financially or realistically. They can’t drive your sick animal to the vets and pay the bills. But the behavioral problem is one of the points people are unprepared for. We do our best and wear ourselves out conducting outreach and education programs several days each month sharing our knowledge and experience with the unsuspecting public.”

Not only does altering the rabbits in this way improve their behavior, but it is truly necessary for the extended life of the rabbit. A female rabbit stands an 85% chance of developing uterine cancer during her life. Male rabbits, like male cats, lose the unwelcome tendency to spray their territory when neutered. And they also lose the ability to create many, many more rabbits. There are too many companion rabbits in populous areas. Wong explains that “Over the years, I’ve answered hundreds of phone calls from people who wanted to ‘get rid of” or ‘find a good home’ for their rabbits. Although taking these calls has always been agonizing because it most likely meant their rabbits would end up at the animal shelter and euthanized, I’ve always made a point to answer my phone.”

The Spay & Neuter All Rabbits! fund gets off to an auspicious start with an anonymous donor willing to match contributions up to $5,000. With the potential of a $10,000 spay and neuter fund, the opportunity will exist to help dozens if not hundreds of rabbits who would otherwise languish in animal shelters. Just the name of the fund itself is educational since many people unfamiliar with companion rabbits even realize they can be sterilized surgically. And they realize even less the need for it. So we launch our Spay & Neuter All Rabbits! fund with great ambition to accomplish many goals and help as many rabbits as possible.

Contact Information:

Susan Wong, President, Friends of Rabbits & House Rabbit Sanctuary, 240-418-9994

Patti Henningsen, Vice President, Friends of Rabbits & House Rabbit Sanctuary, 301-745-3962

Donate online now at http://houserabbitsanctuary. org (http://houserabbitsanctuary. org)

###

Govplace Hires Sales Veteran to Lead Sacramento Office

Govplace Hires Sales Veteran to Lead Sacramento Office

Systems Integration and Data Center Efficiency leader has hired John Mufich, a sales veteran with over 20-years of Business Development experience, to lead its Northern California sales effort.

Irvine, CA (PRWEB) August 31, 2007

Due to rapid growth in its State of California business, Govplace has established a new office in Sacramento, California. The move helps solidify Govplace's position in the state as a primary supplier of product and services for the IT Infrastructure, Virtualization, and Data Center Efficiency markets.

In support of this move, it has hired John Mufich to lead the sales and business development efforts in Sacramento. Mufich brings over 20-years of experience to the position. "John has a wealth of industry experience and an excellent reputation with our key partners and customers. We are very excited to have him on board," said Randy Richey, Govplace's Vice President of Professional Services and Sales. "Govplace has an excellent reputation in the integration and virtualization market, and I am looking forward to actively sharing that message with our Northern California accounts," added Mufich.

The location allows Govplace to better serve one of its primary growth markets and interact more directly with partners and customers alike. "Govplace's significant growth mandated that we get the right person into this critical geography to handle our strategic relationships locally," said Richey. "Having a local resource with John's reputation allows us to be face-to-face with key accounts in Sacramento and Northern California in general."

About Govplace

Govplace provides core solutions offerings based around server consolidation, virtualization, storage, disaster recovery, business continuity, security and network infrastructure. Govplace's exclusive focus on the state, local, education, and federal customer provides a unique understanding of the technical and non-technical needs of a public sector account including contracts, regulatory compliance and best practices.

Govplace's services team is compromised of enterprise solutions engineers well versed in the technical needs of the public sector. Our team partners with agencies to deploy enterprise projects, from concept, design, and assessment to implementation, training and ongoing management.

Govplace is headquartered in Irvine, CA, with additional offices in Sacramento and Reston, VA.

###

Lands’ End to Give Back $1 Million to Schools in 2010

Lands’ End to Give Back $1 Million to Schools in 2010

Million Dollar Difference – Get Your Share.

Dodgeville, WI (PRWEB) March 1, 2010

It’s no secret that our nation’s schools can use financial support. Seventy-six percent of school districts described their economic situation as “inadequately funded,” in a recent survey by the American Association of School Administrators(1).

Since 1998, Lands’ End has helped schools raise funds by giving cash back on the net sales of school uniform purchases to Preferred Schools through its School Rewards program. Lands’ End today announced that it is raising its commitment by giving back $1 million to schools in 2010. To celebrate the news, a “Double the Difference” sweepstakes is launching March 1, 2010, to give every school in the United States a chance to win money just by telling Lands’ End how they use their fundraising dollars.

“With thousands of schools across the nation facing critical budget cuts yet again, Lands’ End is stepping up to help them easily generate funds through the Lands’ End School Rewards program and the Double the Difference sweepstakes,” said Adam Weil, director of School Uniforms, Lands’ End. “Our million-dollar commitment in 2010 will do even more to help schools maintain vital resources to provide the best education to kids across the nation.”

“We’ve had nothing but a positive experience working with Lands’ End and their school uniforms program,” said Marilyn Martini, admissions director for St. Patrick School in Larkspur, Calif. “Parents love the high-quality products and easy ordering — while we get a fantastic opportunity to supplement our Parent Teacher Group’s budget with the cash-back rewards. They’ve purchased some great and much-needed items such as laptops and microscopes for our students. It’s a winning situation for everyone.”

Double the Difference Fundraising Sweepstakes for All Schools

Beginning March 1, 2010, through March 31, 2010, every school in the United States is invited to enter the “Double the Difference” sweepstakes by completing the entry form at landsend. com/difference and writing a brief explanation of how they plan to use their fundraising dollars. Four winning schools will be randomly selected from all submitted entries to double their fundraising efforts up to $1,500 per school. Winners will be selected and announced on or about April 12, 2010. To learn more about the “Double the Difference” sweepstakes, visit landsend. com/difference or call 1-800-741-6311.

A Lands’ End Legacy of Giving Back to Schools

Lands’ End has a legacy of giving back to the communities and schools where it does business. In the years 2008 and 2009 combined, Lands’ End gave more than $1.5 million to Preferred Schools through all of their programs and scholarships.

To participate in the Lands’ End School Rewards program, schools must register to be a Preferred School. To qualify, schools need to be K-12 having a 501(c)(3) or 509(a) tax exempt status under the Internal Revenue Code. Qualified schools receive a Preferred School number and work with Lands’ End to share the number with parents. Schools can call 1-800-741-6311 to request a Preferred School information packet.

Preferred Schools agree to work with Lands’ End as a school clothing provider and make Lands’ End School catalogs available to parents throughout the year. For a school to receive credit for the Lands’ End School Rewards program, parents must specify the Preferred School number when placing an order. The Lands’ End School Rewards checks are issued once a year in March.

About Lands’ End School
Lands’ End offers uniforms and school-appropriate clothing in sizes for children and adults, designed to meet dress-code requirements. Lands’ End School includes gym wear such as sweatshirts and sweatpants on to which the school’s logo can be applied. Lands’ End offers its school uniform apparel all year, including slim, plus and husky sizing. To help schools, the Lands’ End School Rewards program gives participating schools a percentage back on net sales of school uniforms. Lands’ End School is available online at www. landsend. com/school (http://www. landsend. com/school) and via the Lands’ End School catalog. To request a catalog or order by phone, call 1-800-469-2222.

About Lands’ End
Lands’ End® is one of the world’s largest retailers of clothing for the family. In addition, Lands’ End offers an innovative collection of fine quality goods for the home. Lands’ End merchandise can be purchased online at www. landsend. com, by calling 1-800-800-5800, and by visiting the Lands’ End Shop at Sears. Lands’ End is a proud member of Sears Holdings Corporation (NASDAQ: SHLD). And, all high-quality Lands’ End merchandise is Guaranteed. Period.®

(1) Noelle M. Emerson and Robert S. McCord, “One Year Later: How the Economic Downturn Continues to Impact School Districts,” October 2009, American Association of School Administrators.

###

Fair Wind Sailing School Introduces ASA Advanced Sailing Lessons in the Virgin Islands

Fair Wind Sailing School Introduces ASA Advanced Sailing Lessons in the Virgin Islands

Fair Wind Sailing School announces the addition of advanced sailing lessons to its Caribbean sailing program. Fair Wind will be the first and only ASA sailing school in the Virgin Islands to offer such a program.

St Thomas, Virgin Islands (PRWEB) August 10, 2006

Fair Wind Sailing School -- America’s Best Sailing School -- announces the addition of advanced sailing lessons to its Caribbean sailing program. Fair Wind will be the first and only ASA sailing school in the Virgin Islands to offer such a program. “We are thrilled to be able to offer this option to our students,” commented David Bello, President of Fair Wind Sailing Inc. “The advanced sailing lessons are ideal in the Caribbean and the Virgin Islands make a perfect base.” Bello continued, “Fair Wind is pleased to extend our leadership position as the premier sailing school in the Virgin Islands.”

Fair Wind will teach Advanced Sailing (ASA 106) and Coastal Navigation (ASA 104) in a week-long, live-aboard setting similar to its popular Instant Bareboater class which provides ASA Certification from beginning through ASA 104, bareboat chartering. The Advanced sailing class will add to the instructional program night-time sailing, night-time man-over-board drills and a continuous 24 hour sail. In addition, it will allow students to visit exciting Caribbean islands like St Martin and Anguilla, in addition to the US and British Virgin Islands in a one-week, live-board sailing class. “This is truly a one of kind sailing experience that will be both educational and a lot of fun for the experienced sailor,” Bello added.

# # #

New Yorkers Cite New Series Of Inspirational Subway Ads As Reason For Getting Their Lives Back On Track

New Yorkers Cite New Series Of Inspirational Subway Ads As Reason For Getting Their Lives Back On Track

Interboro Institute Ads Give Riders Hope

New York, NY (PRWEB) February 19, 2005

New Yorkers think of subway cars in many ways. Most people wouldnÂ’t say that their train ride has been a source of inspiration, until now.

A new series of subway ads (on trains and platforms) is catching the eye of thousands of New Yorkers. So far, since the ads appeared, hundreds of men and women are telling their friends and families that those ads are going to change their lives. The ads also caught the attention of the judges for the 20th Annual Admissions Advertising Awards competition, who awarded May Sky first place for their compelling new ads.

“These ads talk to everyone,” said Darren Press, who created the ads along with his team at May Sky, Inc., the Poughkeepsie based advertising agency whose Human Impact Communications approach is helping to build and re-define new and aging brands. “The message is that you too can be a success, you can make a better life for yourself and your family, regardless of your economic or cultural background. An Interboro education is within your reach and this school provides the training and education that can literally change your life.”

According to Interboro admissions officers, since the ad campaign began in the summer of 2004, enrollment has skyrocketed and class size has increased by almost 100% at the 116 year-old New York City based associate degree institution. (Interboro has campuses in mid-town Manhattan, Washington Heights, Queens, and Yonkers.)

To kick off the New Year, May Sky created a series of eight New Years ads. In one, a smiling young mother holds her baby. As though speaking to the reader she says, “New Year’s resolution: My baby will hold onto someone who can support her. Me.” The Interboro logo and degree programs appear below the motivational image.

“We work to create what we call Human Impact Communication,” said Press, “a dialogue with our audience that does not focus on targets or stereotypes but uses an understanding of demographics to create a campaign that engages and literally speaks to human sensibilities.” He continued to say, “Interboro’s campaign, in different ways, appeals to people of all ages, financial status and ethnic backgrounds. It is working to redefine the Interboro brand image and it has brought in a record number of new students.”

May Sky’s creative director reports that “copy is written to read as if it were being thought in the moment, as unrehearsed dialogue, a stream of consciousness that takes the reader from a single simple statement to something bigger than they ever imagined, a realization that they want to have a career and improve their lives and the lives of those who count on them.”

The subway ads, along with a series of ads that appear frequently in the pages of The New York Post and The New York Daily News are part of a $2 million campaign dubbed “Aspire to Succeed.”

May SkyÂ’s clients also include GallagherÂ’s Steak House, The Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant, Antique & Vintage Woods of America, Ronnybrook Farm Dairy and Urban Lowrider NY. The agency was established in 2003 in New York City, before relocating to Poughkeepsie in 2004. May Sky has estimated billings of $4 million.

Contact:

Jane Bartnett

516-897-9017

Or

Allison Moore

920-499-1328

This press release was issued through GroupWeb EmailWire. Com: http://www. emailwire. com (http://www. emailwire. com).

# # #

Microsoft Across America Coming to ESS Expo .06

Microsoft Across America Coming to ESS Expo.06

Mobile unit from Microsoft’s traveling fleet to offer EXPO attendees hands-on access to technologies that help drive ESS software performance

Tempe, AZ (PRWEB) June 23, 2006

ESS, the leading provider of Operational Risk Management software and services for Environmental, Health & Safety (EH&S) and Crisis Management, announced today that the company will host the Microsoft Across America Mobile Event Experience at ESS EXPO.06.

One of the seven Microsoft Across America 42-foot trucks loaded with software and hardware from Microsoft, ESS, Cisco, HP and Intel will be on hand at the annual ESS users’ conference, scheduled for Oct. 8-12 at Pointe South Mountain Resort in Phoenix. The truck will be open to conference attendees from 8 a. m. to 3:30 p. m. on Oct. 9 and 10. A Microsoft Technology Specialist and ESS experts will be on hand to hold live presentations along with demonstrations of ESS software running on Microsoft hardware.

The interactive environment will include complete workstations including Microsoft Windows XP Professional, Microsoft Office 2003, and previews of the forthcoming updates to these products – Microsoft Windows Vista and Microsoft Office 2007. Additionally server solutions featured on the truck include Microsoft Exchange Server 2003, Microsoft SQL Server 2005, Microsoft Windows SharePoint Services, and Microsoft Windows Server 2003.

“At Microsoft, we have a passion for the products we develop and how they can make a significant difference in the lives of our customers,” said Michael Moore, program manager at Microsoft. “With Microsoft Across America, we are investing in interactive educational tools that will help people make technology decisions that are right for their organizations.”

Robert Johnson, CEO of ESS, said, “Microsoft has offered us a unique opportunity to demonstrate to IT professionals and ESS users how our solutions can answer their business objectives. This year’s conference has been designed to capitalize on precisely this kind of interaction with ESS and its partners.”

ESS EXPO.06 will provide attendees with informative breakout sessions and educational training that will be designed to help them use ESS software and services to reduce operational risk and minimize the costs of compliance. The sessions will also encourage networking among industry peers, ESS management and development staff, and consulting and partner networks.

To register for ESS EXPO.06 and take advantage of the Microsoft Across America Mobile Event Experience, contact your Essential Suite account representative at 800.999.5009, your Compliance Suite account representative at 888.766.0220, or visit www. ess-expo. com.

About ESS

ESS is the leading provider of Operational Risk Management software and services for Environmental, Health and Safety (EH&S) and Crisis Management. The company has provided Essential Suite™ and Compliance Suite™ solutions to more than 17,000 businesses, government agencies and other organizations worldwide. For information, visit www. ess-home. com.

# # #

TLF Receives 100th Proclamation for Annual Worldwide Celebration of "Global Love Day" for May 1st

TLF Receives 100th Proclamation for Annual Worldwide Celebration of "Global Love Day" for May 1st

The Love Foundation reached a new milestone in its Global Love Day initiative with its 100th proclamation this week. This annual celebration of humanity each May 1st is being recognized by prominent governors, mayors, councils and commissions for its timeless and timely vision of unity, tolerance, diversity and unconditional love. Now in its fourth year, individuals and organizations from around the world are expressing their support for this unique day of universal love.

Tampa, FL (PRWEB) March 26, 2007

Tampa, Florida based nonprofit, The Love Foundation (TLF), reached a new milestone for its Global Love Day initiative when it received its 100th official proclamation this week. The most recent came from Petersburg, Virginia and is one of 23 new 2007 proclamations from governors, mayors, councils and commissions received just this past month. Dozens of prominent leaders from Maine to California, Canada to Florida, have issued documents already and many more are expected to follow in the coming weeks as the fourth annual May 1st date approaches.

Since the initial launch of Global Love Day in 2004, The Love Foundation has acknowledged responses from individuals and organizations in over 97 countries along with the now over 100 cumulative proclamations. TLF Founder, Harold W. Becker, states, "This day honors our collective humanity and the power of love within each individual. I believe this amazing response from so many diverse elected leaders indicates we are ready to embrace greater peace, compassion, tolerance and unity in our world."

Equally inspiring is the core message which has already been translated into 21 languages and is the basis of the numerous proclamations. It shares the vision that: We are one humanity on this planet; All life is interconnected and interdependent; All share in the Universal bond of love; Love begins with self acceptance and forgiveness; With tolerance and compassion we embrace diversity; and Together we make a difference through love. "When we, as individuals, realize our potential to love unconditionally, we transform ourselves and the planet at the same time" shares TLF Founder Becker, "Together we can make a difference by joining our energy during this one day celebration of humanity."

Awareness for this event is spreading largely via the Internet and numerous volunteers. By simply accessing the Foundation's main web site at http://www. thelovefoundation. com people of all backgrounds and cultures, like musicians, artists, government and religious leaders, authors, homemakers, students, NGO's, and businesses from around the world, are sharing their support and hosting events on May 1st in their local communities.

The Love Foundation is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization with the mission of inspiring people to love unconditionally. Established in 2000, TLF has become the internationally recognized leading resource for understanding and applying unconditional love. Their vision is to assist people by building a practical foundation and experience of love within individuals and society as a whole, through their education, research and charitable programs. For more information, contact John T. Goltz, VP

# # #

International Scholarship and Tuition Services, Inc. Debuts New Scholarship Applicant Newsletter

International Scholarship and Tuition Services, Inc. Debuts New Scholarship Applicant Newsletter

Publication reflects company’s dedication to improving educational opportunities for all students

Nashville, TN (Vocus) October 27, 2010

International Scholarship and Tuition Services, Inc. (ISTS) recently published the first issue of Apply Yourself, a new e-newsletter focused on applicants and aimed at providing tips and information about higher education to high school and college students.

Apply Yourself is published monthly and explores a variety of education-related topics including unusual scholarship offerings, college profiles, student discount deals and advice from the people that manage scholarship programs.

Since 1985, ISTS has assisted more than 3 million applicants in their pursuit of higher education. Vice President of Marketing Lawrence Dresdner said the company’s goal is to support continuing education in any way possible.

“We feel an obligation to continue helping these students with more than just funding for their education. We have a tremendous amount of knowledge and experience working with and advising new college entrants,” Dresdner said. “It seemed logical that we should be sharing this information in a way that allowed anyone going to college or applying for a scholarship to have access to it.”

Like Apply Yourself on Facebook and complete the sign up form
To receive Apply Yourself via email each month!

About International Scholarship and Tuition Services, Inc.
Founded in 1985, International Scholarship and Tuition Services, Inc. provides comprehensive scholarship and tuition reimbursement management services for corporations, foundations, associations, unions and trusts worldwide. For more information about ISTS, visit applyists. com.

###

Pearl Buck and China: Once Rejected, Now Revered

Pearl Buck and China: Once Rejected, Now Revered

The Chinese Government is now embracing the noted author and humanitarian after years of official censure. This story highlights the efforts the city of Zhenjiang and the nonprofit organization Pearl S. Buck International are making toward education and multi-cultural understanding.

Bucks County, PA (PRWEB) July 30, 2005

An exile in 1934 and refused re-entry into the country during President NixonÂ’s official visit in 1972, Pearl Buck is now honored and respected by the people of the land she grew up in and loved.

This past June 26th through the 28th, over 125 people from around the world gathered for the Pearl S. Buck International Symposium in Zhenjiang, China - the hometown of Pearl S. Buck for 18 years of her life. The symposium commemorated the 113th anniversary of her birth and celebrated the 60th anniversary of Chinese victory in the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression. 49 scholars presented papers exploring Pearl BuckÂ’s role in promoting exchanges between diverse cultures; her humanitarian endeavors; and her role in the Chinese War of Resistance.

The event also included the naming of a public park in Zhenjiang as “Pearl Square” and the unveiling of a large “Pearl S. Buck Symposium Monument.” Meanwhile, at the Zhenjiang #2 Middle School (comparable to U. S. high school grades) another monument was unveiled in her honor. This was the school that Ms. Buck attended as a child and taught in as an adult.

The house she lived in as a child is now operated as a museum by the Zhenjiang Foreign Affairs Office. A summer home on Lushan Mountain, formerly a Presbyterian enclave for missionaries, where Pearl S. Buck spent many summers has also been restored and opened as a Pearl S. Buck public tourist area by the local government there as well.

What makes all this so remarkable, is the following reply by the Chinese government to her request for a visa in 1972, the year before her death:

“Your letters have been duly received. In view of the fact that for a long time you have in your works taken an attitude of distortion, smear, and vilification towards the people of new China and their leaders, I am authorized to inform you that we cannot accept your request for a visit to China.”

Now over 30 years later, the Chinese have acknowledged Pearl S. BuckÂ’s role in not only opening up Chinese culture to an ignorant West, but as an accurate documenter of rural Chinese life during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. At that time in Chinese history, scholars and writers did not acknowledge or write about their own farmers or peasants so scholars and historians now eagerly study her works.

Recognition in China also came in the form of a one-hour special about the life of Pearl S. Buck broadcast over CCTV-10, the state-run network with the largest audience in the world. So not only have the people of China embraced Pearl S. Buck, but the central government is now rethinking its position on Pearl S. Buck. Today the humanitarian legacy of Pearl S. Buck is viewed as a symbol of friendship and cultural exchange as well as an opportunity to build tourism, business relations, and resources for children.

Pearl S. Buck International (the combination of Welcome House*, the adoption program she founded in 1949 and the Pearl S. Buck Foundation, founded to provide humanitarian support to mixed-race children and their communities in 1964) continues the connection with Zhenjiang. In addition to sending a delegation to the symposium, the nonprofit organization is beginning its third year of a “Teacher Ambassador Program” which recruits American citizens to teach oral English to students in Zhenjiang.

The nonprofit organization is also working to raise money to subsidize the “Pearl S. Buck Class” in the #2 Middle School. This class of over 100 academically motivated students comprised of orphans and other rural children from poor families who would otherwise not have the opportunity to complete their education. In China, compulsory education and government funding for tuition ends after the 9th grade.

Another humanitarian project funded by Pearl S. Buck International rests in the Zhenjiang Social Welfare Center. The organization has raised money to purchase new stainless steel cribs and mattresses and also helped to fund new heating and cooling equipment for the building.

It is interesting to note that while literary interest and name-recognition in the first woman to win both the Pulitzer and Nobel (Literature) Prizes wanes in the country where she spent the last 39 years of her life, recognition and popularity of her achievements and written work rises in the land where she spent the majority of her first 41 years – China.

Resources for your use:

Interviews available with Pearl S. Buck International symposium delegates Interviews available with other delegates from the U. S. and China Photographs of the symposium and monuments available by email or CD www. pearlsbuck. org Peter Conn. “Pearl S. Buck: A Cultural Biography.” (Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, UK. 1996)

Attachments: Word Document (.rtf) containing all of this in-body text.

Tagline:

Pearl S. Buck International (PSBI) is a not-for-profit, non-sectarian organization headquartered in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Its mission is to promote the legacy and dreams of the founder, Pearl S. Buck. These include a commitment to improving the quality of life and to expanding opportunities for children; and promotion of the values and attributes of other cultures, the injustice of prejudice, and the need for humanitarianism throughout the world. This mission is common to the three distinct functions of the organization: The Welcome House* Adoption Program, the preservation and educational interpretation of the National Historic site and the Pearl S. Buck House, and Opportunity House which provides programs designed to aid children of the world most in need. For more information please visit www. pearl-s-buck. org.

“Welcome House” is a Registered Trademark

Contact:

Vince Green

215-249-0100

Info@pearl-s-buck. org

###

Does Our Next President Need to Be "Scientifically Literate"?

Does Our Next President Need to Be "Scientifically Literate"?

New Book by Prize-Winning Scientist James Trefil Makes the Case for Scientific Literacy in Today's Society

New York (PRWEB) February 6, 2008

In the midst of presidential primary session, it seems the list of topics in which we want our nation's next president to be well-versed is endless - the economy, the Iraq War, global warming, the price of oil, health care, the war in Afghanistan, science…Why science? (http://store. tcpress. com/0807748307.shtml)

In his new book for Teachers College Press, prize-winning scientist and best-selling author James Trefil answers that question. He makes the case for why every U. S. citizen - even presidents and congressmen - needs to be "scientifically literate (http://store. tcpress. com/0807748307.shtml)" to participate in our democratic society. In "Why Science?" Trefil asserts that all students - not just those who are going to be scientists - must graduate with enough scientific knowledge to participate in our national conversation about issues that impact their everyday lives.

Adding scientific literacy to the list of literacy skills needed to survive in the 21st century, Trefil's new book provides educators and anyone who is interested in education with a guide to today's key science topics and how to teach them. In his engaging and conversational style, Trefil discusses the importance of using scientific literacy skills to debunk scientific myths and understand the world in which we live today.

Yet, when he examines the state of scientific literacy (http://store. tcpress. com/0807748307.shtml) in this country, the picture looks dismal. In fact, the most recent National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) report on science - dubbed "The Nation's Report card" - revealed that high school seniors were scoring lower in science today than in 1996.

He stresses that we need a strong foundation in science to be a part of any liberal education so we can grapple with issues that confront us every day, such as stem cell research, global warming, cloning and intelligent design.

Written for classroom teachers, school administrators, college and university faculty and anyone who cares about scientific literacy, "Why Science?" is already earning accolades from leaders in the science and education communities.

"'Why Science?' should be required reading for all middle school and high school science teachers, superintendents, school board members, college faculty, deans, provosts, college presidents and legislators at all levels," said Jon Miller, director, International Center for the Advancement of Scientific Literacy, Michigan State University.

Trefil's previous books have received high acclaim, summed up by "The New York Times": "Trefil surpasses almost all other scientists' writing about science for the public."

Trefil is the Clarence J. Robinson Professor of Physics at George Mason University. His other books include "The Dictionary of Cultural Literacy," "1001 Things Everyone Needs to Know About Science" and "Are We Unique? A Scientist Explores the Human Mind." He has been a regular contributor to "Smithsonian Magazine," science contributor for National Public Radio and contributing editor for science at "USA Weekend." He is a fellow of the American Physical Society, the World Economic Forum and the American Association for the Advancement of Science, as well as a former Guggenheim Fellow. In 2000, the American Institute of Physics recognized him with the Andrew W. Gemant Award, presented for outstanding and sustained contributions in bridging the gap between science and society.

"Why Science?" is available from Teachers College for $19.95 for paperback and $52 for cloth. To order, call 800-575-6566 or visit www. tcpress. com.

Press Only: Review copies of "Why Science?" are available by contacting Lisa Wolfe, L. Wolfe Communications, 773-325-9935.

Dr. Trefil is available for interviews and may be booked by contacting L. Wolfe Communications.

About Teachers College Press

As the university press for Teachers College, Columbia University, Teachers College (TC) Press stands out as the trusted source for high-quality, innovative and timely resources for those concerned about the future of education. One of the oldest and most distinguished publishers in this field in the United States, TC Press has built its reputation on a commitment to excellence and a readiness to tackle the most difficult and provocative issues facing American education. For more than a century, it has published works at the cutting edge of theory, research and practice, and today its publications reach far beyond students and scholars of education to practicing educators from pre-K to post-secondary education, policy makers, parents and the general public. For more information, visit www. teacherscollegepress. com

###

ER Doctor Fights Food Poisoning with an Innovative Restaurant Grading Program

ER Doctor Fights Food Poisoning with an Innovative Restaurant Grading Program

As an Emergency Department Doctor for nearly three decades, Dr. Harlan Stueven saw patients suffer and die from food poisoning. So he created a new website, DiningGrades. com, the first and only rating system empowering the consumer to grade a restaurant’s cleanliness and hygiene. If the consumer gets sick from dining out, they can report the event to the health department and to the participating restaurant.

Fairplay, CO (PRWEB) December 9, 2010

As an Emergency Department Doctor for nearly three decades, Dr. Harlan Stueven saw patients suffer and die from food poisoning. So he created a new website, DiningGrades. com, the first and only rating system empowering the consumer to grade a restaurant’s cleanliness and hygiene. If the consumer gets sick from dining out, they can report the event to the health department and to the participating restaurant.

Food poisoning is a bigger problem than people realize!

The Center for Disease Control estimate there are 5000 deaths, hundreds of thousands of hospital admissions, and 87 million persons sickened by food borne illness per year at a cost of nearly 3 billion dollars. Studies show a staggering 44 % of this epidemic is traceable to restaurants.

Consumers rely on Public Health inspections, done infrequently and sometimes only once a year to ensure hygienic compliance. Tragically, the Center for Science in the Public Interest reports 66 percent of restaurants had high-risk food safety violations. Violations cause food poisoning.

Consumers dine out and witness unclean food preparation, sloppy serving, dirty tables or silverware and are served food improperly cooked, contaminated or not fresh. But who do they tell?

It is tempting to walk away taking no action, but now, that experience can be rated from a cleanliness and hygienic perspective, using a copyrighted system, on DiningGrades. com. The questions are simple yes or no, are assigned a demerit and are objective. The demerits generate a grade. Grades from every rating are continually merged. It is fast and easy to rate a restaurant. Beginning to end, it takes less than 2 minutes.

DiningGrades. com is also available as an iPhone application. The GPS feature finds the next clean dining location, provides comments about cleanliness from other diners and helps make online reservations. When finished dining, it is easy to rate the restaurant at the table.

By rating a restaurant, consumers learn what to watch for, and there are critical things to look for.

The FDA Food Code has over 50 inspection items. Many can be observed outside of the kitchen.

Selected Food Code items, as well as important medical hygiene standards, are part of the grading system and grades do make a difference. The LA restaurant hygiene grading program generated a 13.1 percent decrease in the number of food borne disease hospitalizations.

DiningGrades. com makes it easy to report a food poisoning event.

The CDC estimate that nearly 38 million Americans get ill yearly after restaurant dining.

Our pastor’s father died from contaminated seafood.
A friend’s father got hepatitis and still suffers years later.
A pharmacist’s spouse was hospitalized and nearly needed dialysis.

Unfortunately many events are not reported.

Now consumers can anonymously report those events on DiningGrades. com. The report is then emailed to the respective State Health Department for investigate and to participating restaurant promoters as an early warning of potential epidemic.

DiningGrades. com is concerned about food handler education.

DiningGrades. com has affiliated with Bruce Kress, who has 35 years experience as a Restaurant Inspector. He is certified by the National Restaurant Association as a ServSafe instructor. Through this affiliation, Dining Grades is offering educational programs to restaurants designed to improve food handler hygiene.

DiningGrades. com monitors food recalls.

In the past months there have been many food recalls including: alfalfa sprouts, fresh spinach, ground beef, breakfast cereals, solid white tuna, a nationwide egg recall and more.

These recalls have affected virtually every region of America.

While these reports were in the media, some of these products may still be in the kitchen. Recalls are posted on the DiningGrades. com Facebook page. Friends and family will want to know.

The Center for Science in the Public Interest, major metro media and lawmakers are calling for a universal restaurant cleanliness grading system. LA and NYC have been leaders in creating a letter grade. These systems are a critical step by governments, but DiningGrades. com has created a new, innovative, dynamic restaurant grading system that empowers the consumer to watch for cleanliness and hygiene. If there is a poisoning event, DiningGrades has a mechanism to report it to the health department and to participating restaurants. DiningGrades. com is joining the fight on food poisoning.

###

New Ways of Working Report: What Every Senior Executive Needs to Know About Distributed Work

New Ways of Working Report: What Every Senior Executive Needs to Know About Distributed Work

New report from New Ways of Working highlights key elements of a successful distributed work program.

Los Gatos, California (Vocus) June 22, 2010

The common phrase “I’m going to work” suggests that work is just one place. But increasingly work occurs in many places. Members of the New Ways of Working Network and the Telework Coalition have published a new report highlighting key elements of a successful distributed work program.

Distributed work is already a reality. The question is whether it is done well. In many cases employees are working effectively in a distributed manner in spite of, not because of, company practices and policies. So the real question becomes, how well does an organization support employees so they can work productively wherever they are?

By developing programs to support and enable distributed work, New Ways of Working has found that a growing number of companies have increased productivity, reduced facility costs, improved sustainability, and enhanced the lives of their employees. Companies with telework programs can save about $20,000 per worker a year. In the event of business disruptions ranging from weather incidents to terrorist attacks, distributed work helps ensure business continuity.

There are also advantages to bringing people together in the same location. Research shows that collocation more easily supports the “density of communication” that allows people to absorb norms, expectations and information without conscious effort. And being in the same place is still the fastest way to build and maintain social relationships.

Building an effective distributed program requires a strategy that integrates information technology, workspaces (facilities, workplace planning), and corporate policies and procedures. Building a program without the participation of all of these corporate elements sets it up for failure.

Members of the New Ways of Working Network and the Telework Coalition have published a new report: 'What Every Senior Executive Needs to Know About Distributed Work.' It is available for free download at http://www. newwow. net/public/what-every-senior-executive-needs-know-about-distributed-work.

This report provides a summary of lessons learned from organizations with successful distributed work programs:
 If organizations offer employees the opportunity to work in a distributed manner, staff see it as a benefit. If organizations require distributed work, employees see it as something being taken away from them.  Consider all kinds of distributed work: Some of the problems with distributed work occur when people attempt to apply a single type of distributed work to all situations.  Distributed work is not for everyone: Some employees may not be able to adapt to distributed work, either due to personal workstyle or cultural context.  The need for data: Understand how people actually work before changing things.  Focus on results: A crucial precondition for distributed work is a job performance evaluation and measurement system that assesses actual performance and is not dependent on supervisors and managers being able to personally observe staff at all times.  Training for distributed work: For teams to work effectively via technology they must acquire additional skills and make several explicit agreements about how they will work together.

“Developing an effective distributed work program will require investments in information technology, in supportive workplaces, and in developing policies, procedures, and training,” says Jim Creighton, co-founder, New Ways of Working Network. "This will ensure that your people have the skills they need to work effectively in a distributed manner.”

About New Ways of Working Network
The New Ways of Working Network is a membership organization of thought leaders from companies and academia exploring new ways of working such as distributed work, environmental sustainability and work, cross-cultural work, innovation and productivity.

About Telework Coalition
The Telework Coalition is the nation’s leading nonprofit telework education and advocacy organization. Their mission is to enable and support the advancement of virtual, mobile, and distributed work through research, education, technology, and legislation.

Contact:
Jim Creighton, New Ways of Working, 408-354-8001
Joe Ouye, New Ways of Working, 831-392-6060
Chuck Wilsker, Telework Coalition, 202-266-0046

###

Walmart Foundation Grant to Experience Works Helps Train Older Workers for New Jobs

Walmart Foundation Grant to Experience Works Helps Train Older Workers for New Jobs

A new job training program in six regions through the United States is expected to provide a significant economic boost to local communities. The Putting Experience to Work program is made possible by the partnership of Experience Works and the Wal-Mart Foundation. By training older job seekers to return to the workforce, a significant economic boost is likely for the communities involved.

Arlington, VA (PRWEB) July 13, 2009

Experience Works and the Walmart Foundation are partnering to train up to 800 older adults for new jobs. With more older adults than ever looking for work during challenging economic times, the program announced today will provide a much-needed boost to the economy of local communities as well as the careers of mature workers.

The Putting Experience to Work Program is being funded by a $1.5 million grant from the Walmart Foundation. The money will be used to train job seekers between the ages of 50 and 62 who are low income, unemployed or underemployed in select communities of five states that represent a mix of metropolitan and rural areas. The goal is to assist qualified older adults learn new skills to help them get jobs in their communities. Program services will include: personal and skill assessments; skill development; job search training; stipends and supportive services; and employment lead development.

"This program responds to the rapidly unfolding economic crisis, which threatens the self-determination and independence of increasing numbers of older people throughout our nation," said Cynthia Metzler, Experience Works President and CEO. "With the support of the Walmart Foundation, Experience Works will be positioned to rapidly respond to the unmet needs of unemployed or underemployed older workers in crisis who need services to preserve their dignity, prepare them to effectively look for a job, and provide hope for the future."

"The Walmart Foundation is committed to supporting workers affected by the economic downturn gain access to job opportunities," said Margaret McKenna, President of the Walmart Foundation. "That's why we are pleased to be a part of this project, which gives older adults - who have contributed so much to their communities - the opportunity to continue to play a vital role in the workforce while providing for themselves and their families."

The Putting Experience to Work Program is available in the following U. S. locations. Each of the six territories will receive $250,000:
Greater El Dorado, Camden and Arkadelphia, Arkansas areas Greater Tampa and St. Petersburg, Florida areas Greater Springfield and Branson, Missouri areas Greater Columbia and Jefferson City, Missouri areas Greater Albany and Saratoga, New York areas Greater Meadville and Titusville, Pennsylvania areas 

In June 2009, according to the U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 2 million unemployed workers age 55 and older - an increase of 115 percent since June 2008. When older workers lose jobs, they are less likely to get another one quickly, and they experience greater earnings losses than younger workers, according to the September 2008 brief Older and Out of Work: Trends in Older Worker Displacement.

Experience Works, a national nonprofit organization that helps older adults get the training they need to obtain good jobs, has identified learning skills that are in demand in each of the participating communities.

For more information about The Putting Experience to Work Program, visit www. experienceworks. org, or to learn if you qualify for services, call Jo Rinehart, Experience Works, at 1-866-397-9757.

About Philanthropy at Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (NYSE: WMT) and the Walmart Foundation are proud to support the charitable causes that are important to customers and associates in their own neighborhoods. Through its philanthropic programs and partnerships, the Walmart Foundation funds initiatives focused on creating opportunities in education, workforce development, economic opportunity, environmental sustainability, and health and wellness. From February 1, 2008 through January 31, 2009, Walmart - and its domestic and international foundations - gave more than $423 million in cash and in-kind gifts globally. To learn more, visit www. walmartfoundation. org.

Ed. Note: Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. is the legal trade name of the corporation. The name "Walmart," expressed as one word and without punctuation, is a trademark of the company and is used analogously to describe the company and its stores. Use the trade name when it is necessary to identify the legal entity, such as when reporting financial results, litigation or corporate governance.

Contact: Gina Pappas
Telephone: 888-296-2411 x. 9

# # #

American Kidney Fund's Disaster Relief Program Available to Dialysis Patients

American Kidney Fund's Disaster Relief Program Available to Dialysis Patients

American Kidney Fund offers emergency disaster relief to dialysis patients affected by Gustav

Rockville, MD (Vocus) September 3, 2008

The American Kidney Fund's Disaster Relief Program is ready to provide emergency financial assistance to U. S. dialysis patients affected by Hurricane Gustav (http://www. kidneyfund. org)--as well as to help dialysis patients who may be affected by additional storms as hurricane season reaches its peak.

The American Kidney Fund's Disaster Relief (http://www. kidneyfund. org) Program is a rapid-response system that provides emergency assistance in the form of block grants to local dialysis centers when disaster strikes a community. Dialysis centers then distribute the funds to help their patients replace medications, food and household items and pay for essentials, such as transportation to dialysis if they have been temporarily evacuated. The program's largest effort occurred after Hurricane Katrina, when more than 5,100 Gulf Coast dialysis patients in 12 states received emergency assistance totaling over $260,000 from the American Kidney Fund, thanks to generous donations from the general public and corporations.

"For a patient who depends on regular dialysis for survival, a major storm represents a serious threat to their well-being. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, the American Kidney Fund stands ready to provide emergency assistance to any qualified U. S. dialysis patients who have been impacted by Hurricane Gustav or other disasters," said LaVarne A. Burton, President and CEO of the American Kidney Fund.

The American Kidney Fund does not accept Disaster Relief grant applications directly from patients. Instead, dialysis center social workers may request a block grant to assist their patients by calling the American Kidney Fund at 1-800-638-8299.

The American Kidney Fund is also accepting financial contributions to fund the Disaster Relief Program. Anyone wishing to contribute to disaster relief for dialysis (http://www. kidneyfund. org) patients may visit www. kidneyfund. org to make an online contribution. In addition, contributions are accepted via telephone at 1-800-638-8299. Checks may be mailed to American Kidney Fund, 6110 Executive Boulevard, Suite 1010, Rockville, MD 20852. Please indicate in the memo line that the contribution is for disaster relief.

The American Kidney Fund is the nation's No. 1 source of treatment-related financial assistance to kidney patients and a leader in providing health education to people with or at risk for kidney disease. In 2007, the American Kidney Fund provided treatment-related grants to 68,000 kidney patients totaling more than $100 million. The American Kidney Fund reaches tens of thousands of individuals each year with information about kidney health; operates a kidney disease screening program in high-risk communities; and maintains a toll-free HelpLine (866-300-2900) which provides education about kidney disease. The American Kidney Fund is a six-time recipient of the highest "Four Star" rating from Charity Navigator; holds an A+ rating from the American Institute of Philanthropy; adheres to the National Health Council Standards of Excellence; and is a member of the Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance. For more information, visit www. kidneyfund. org.

Media Contact: Tamara Ruggiero, 301-984-6657
To Apply for a Grant: Call 800-638-8299

###

The Dalbey Wealth Institute Names James W. McHose Chief Financial Officer

The Dalbey Wealth Institute Names James W. McHose Chief Financial Officer

Seasoned CFO brings extensive financial and business experience to position.

Westminster, Colo. (PRWEB) January 12, 2006

The Dalbey Wealth Institute, provider of educational courses, support, mentoring and access to capital in the cash flow note industry, has named James W. McHose chief financial officer.

In his new position, McHose will lead all financial operations for The Dalbey Wealth Institute. His work will include managing day-to-day financial operations, evaluating new business and financial opportunities, analyzing and making recommendations on quality investment decisions and identifying solutions to maximize financial resources while implementing financial strategy.

McHose brings more than 18 years of experience to his new position, most recently as CFO of Elements Group, and CFO and executive vice president of Corporate Development for Inflow Group. In addition, he has held a number of senior management positions in top cable and telecommunications organizations.

The Dalbey Wealth Institute helps customers achieve financial success through education and coaching services that teach home-based entrepreneurs to connect buyers and sellers of trust deeds, mortgages, mobile home papers, business and other cash flow notes. Institute students range from those with no experience in private notes to long-term students who have helped facilitate the trading of millions of dollars in notes. While graduates of the Institute have the option to purchase notes if they wish, most simply connect buyers and sellers for a fee, much like real estate agents, so no monetary investment is required.

“We are fortunate of have someone with Jim’s experience to guide The Dalbey Wealth Institute as we move forward into 2006,” said Russ Dalbey, founder and CEO. “His extensive financial experience, along with his unsurpassed knowledge and leadership skills, make him a tremendous asset for our company.”

About The Dalbey Wealth Institute

The Dalbey Wealth Institute is a Colorado-based global company that offers time-tested methodology, educational courses, mentoring and support services and access to capital to help individual entrepreneurs succeed in the seller financing industry. The company is the most complete resource for educating and coaching home-based entrepreneurs on how to be financially successful by connecting buyers and sellers of private notes with no monetary investment of their own required. The Dalbey Wealth Institute maintains its corporate headquarters in Westminster, Colo., just north of Denver, and boasts more than 200,000 course graduates in eight countries around the world. For more information about The Dalbey Wealth Institute visit www. dalbeywealthinstitute. com

# # #

The Marketing Spotlight Podcast Features Lead Nurturing Success Story

The Marketing Spotlight Podcast Features Lead Nurturing Success Story

Widen Enterprises Uses Stage-Appropriate Content to Help Prospects Make Buying Decisions

Indianapolis, IN (PRWEB) December 20, 2010

Right On Interactive, maker of the ROI Customer Lifecycle Marketing campaign management software solution, today released the sixth episode of The Marketing Spotlight podcast. This series highlights marketing leaders who share their stories of successful interactive marketing communications campaigns.

This episode features Matthew Gonnering, CEO of digital asset management software provider Widen Enterprises. Mr. Gonnering relates the story of how Widen uses multi-step lead nurturing campaigns to help prospective clients make buying decisions faster.

“The ability to nurture leads into opportunities is the most critical component of growing our business,” says Mr. Gonnering. “We need to make sure that the market is educated on what our services are. We need to make sure that their expectations are managed. We need to make sure those things are in place before they are ready to speak with our team internally so that when they do engage, they are engaging already pre-qualified and a good fit for our sales team to begin escorting them through certain product demonstrations, taking them through the rest of the cycle to bring them on as a customer.”

Widen tailors the content of the lead nurturing messages according to their stage in the buying process.

“Some buyers are done with the education mode and already to the point where they’re in front of their boss requesting dollars,” adds Mr. Gonnering. “That’s a different kind of information stream than the people that are in front of their boss just telling them about what their problems are internally with respect to managing images and videos. Those two people are at different phases of the process and need different content. We’re able to deliver this unique content that helps them at each stage.”

The Customer Lifecycle Marketing automation software from Right On Interactive powers these lead nurturing programs. “What ROI does for Widen is allow us to keep constant flows of information to our leads so that we make sure we’re not wasting the money that we spent to bring that lead to us and focus our internal people on the ones that are ready to buy,” says Mr. Gonnering.

To listen to the podcast or read the transcript, visit The Marketing Spotlight Podcast.

About Right On Interactive
Right On Interactive (ROI) is a customer lifecycle marketing automation software provider that transforms the way marketers nurture business relationships – from initial contact to brand advocacy. The ROI “software-as-a-service” (SaaS) marketing automation software solution helps companies win and retain more customers, optimize marketing effectiveness, and maximize the lifetime value of customers.

# # #

International Sales Training Icon Steve Montague Featured Speaker at Fourth Annual Conference of the MWAA

International Sales Training Icon Steve Montague Featured Speaker at Fourth Annual Conference of the MWAA

The Midwest Acquirers Association - regional center for education in the ISO industry - will host Master Sales Trainer Steve Montague as he leads a full day of instruction on the psychology of selling on Wednesday, July 19th at the Palmer House Hilton. Montague, with more than 35 years experience in sales leadership, aims to help attendees “Sell More and Sell More Effectively”.

Chicago, IL (PRWEB) July 17, 2006 –

Steve Montague, internationally known for his insights into the psychology of the sales process, will give an all-day seminar to this year’s conference attendees targeting key areas that can give sales personnel difficulty. The goal of the seminar will be to help sales people to be more effective, remove barriers that hold them back, and change their mindset about selling.

With three successful years of adding to the quality of the bankcard industry, the MWAA’s annual conference leadership was excited to have Montague aboard as a guest trainer. Mark Dunn, MWAA President [www. fieldguideforisos. com], explained why obtaining Montague was crucial to the event:

“We wanted to make sure that this year was something that would stand out against the backdrop of what we’ve already accomplished - training that would make attendees know that sales can be interesting and fun. When Steve [Montague] offered to speak, we knew we had what we wanted. When these young sales professionals leave the conference, they will know they have gotten more insight about sales than they ever thought possible. Steve is a life changing trainer and we’re delighted to have him aboard this year.”

Montague’s sales record is impressive - spanning four decades and half a dozen countries it includes sales positions from outside sales to the lead trainer for a large international sales force of over 150 people.

Ordinarily, the material covered in this seminar would cost attendees over $2000 but Montague’s interest in giving back to the sales community led him to teach this year’s conference at an introductory fee.

“The bankcard industry needs some evolution in sales methods. This seminar is designed to show sales professionals that the process has two components: sales technique and sales psychology.” Montague said. “I give students knowledge of both halves of the equation and teach them how to marry the two into the most successful sales strategy available.”

The course is rigorous, providing a critical assessment of the individual, and packs what would normally be two days of information into a one day training camp. Class begins at 10 a. m. and runs until 4:30 with a short break for lunch.

“The discipline of selling is as serious as any martial art and you have to treat it with the same level of dedication. I train sales black belts. People who attend this seminar will have the knowledge of how an ultimate sales professional behaves on a call. Most don't due to their own preconceptions, misconceptions or other ‘head trash.’ I can help anyone easily conquer those hurdles as long as they have discipline and drive.”

Since 1995, Steve Montague, C. M.S., has been president of Effective Sales Development Inc. [www. effectivesales. net] specializing in Recruitment, Assessment, and Development of Sales Professionals. For information on obtaining Mr. Montague’s speaking services, please visit the Effective Sales Development website.

The Midwest Acquirers Association [www. midwestacquirers. com] is a not-for-profit, no-membership, independent forum dedicated to the merchant bankcard services industry. The mission of the MWAA is to provide a regional opportunity for training, education and networking in the Midwest bankcard acquiring community.

Online registration is now closed but you can register at the door in Chicago. Register at the Palmer House Hilton, 17 E. Monroe, Chicago, IL on the Fourth Floor outside the Red Lacquer Room between 9am and 10am on Wednesday, July 19, 2006. Cost for the seminar is $150 and includes lunch. A number of resources will be available at cost on site including training manuals related to the course material. For more information about the event you may visit www. fieldguideforisos. com and follow the link labeled “seminars.” P. O.C. Mark Dunn (414) 688-4740.

###

Tritone Launches OSX e-Learning Applications for Music Education - New Cross Platform Performance Evaluation Engine, Javatrax 1.2

Tritone Launches OSX e-Learning Applications for Music Education - New Cross Platform Performance Evaluation Engine, Javatrax 1.2

Today Tritone delivered the latest version of Tritone Music Series with its next-generation cross platform online music performance evaluation engine, Javatrax 1.2, and revitalized the network management system, CourseWatch.

(PRWEB) September 22, 2004

Tritone, a division of Great West Music (1987) Ltd. located in Burnaby, British Columbia is an innovator and developer of online music education services, applications and technology software.

The company announces the release of its latest e-learning technologies for music education.

Today Tritone delivered the latest version of Tritone Music Series with its next-generation cross platform online music performance evaluation engine, Javatrax 1.2, and revitalized the network management system, CourseWatch.

Javatrax 1.2 reaches a new milestone for music evaluation technology in speed, smaller size, and full standard support for Windows 98, XP and Mac OSX. Javatrax 1.2 is a Java music evaluation engine that simultaneously evaluates played music for pitch, timing and expressional elements from a midi musical instrument keyboard and returns an immediate graphical response where the user made errors. A teacher retains this information as part of the Coursewatch management system for later review.

This revolutionary patented technology is designed to Internet-enable PC and Mac operating systems being delivered and managed from one administration server. Tritone is a pioneer in e-learning music education solutions with managed network capabilities using the Internet as a “music lab” allowing many classrooms and schools to be integrated into one system, managed and monitored from one or more locations.

Tritone is responding to an increased demand from schools and districts to comply with "no child left behind" mandates set out by the United States Government. Tritone is addressing not only the music educational component that meets state educational standards required but also the data tracking and management in a comprehensive system.

Coursewatch was designed especially to deliver and retain music education content and is used to manage and track these learning events through a network. This provides the client with access to manage their own network; developing classrooms, locations, schools and student databases that can be monitored remotely by teachers and administrators.

Using Tritone interactive multimedia e-learning applications is much more engaging than the typical "text and picture" static e-Learning. Students remain engaged by “doing” which is provided by one of the only technologies that actually teaches physical performer skills over the Internet. The music education suite also delivers audio, text instruction, interactive lessons and activities as well as video and multimedia movies that demonstrate the skills required by the learner to play music.

Tritone Music Series is available for trial access by emailing info@tritone. net or completing the inquiry form at www. tritonemusic. com

Contact:

Garnett MacMullin

President / CEO

604-451-5547

Garnett@tritone. net

# # #

LAURENCE BARTON, PH. D, NAMED AS THE NEXT PRESIDENT OF THE AMERICAN COLLEGE New President to Helm “The Leader in Financial Services Education.”

LAURENCE BARTON, PH. D, NAMED AS THE NEXT PRESIDENT OF THE AMERICAN COLLEGE New President to Helm “The Leader in Financial Services Education.”

The American College announced today that after an extensive search and interview process, Laurence Barton, Ph. D, has been named the eighth President of the College by the Board of Trustees. Barton will assume his new role at the College on July 1, 2003.

(PRWEB) June 13, 2003

BRYN MAWR, PA – June 13, 2003 – The American College announced today that after an extensive search and interview process, Laurence Barton, Ph. D, has been named the eighth President of the College by the Board of Trustees. Barton will assume his new role at the College on July 1, 2003.

“We are very pleased that Dr. Barton has agreed to join the College,” said Chuck Wright, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of The American College. “His career in both the academic arena and in corporate leadership has been distinguished. The addition of Dr. Barton and the creative vision he brings to our institution will help insure the continued success of The American College in the 21st century.”

Prior to joining The American College, Barton served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Heald College, a not-for-profit institution with 11 campuses in California, Oregon and Hawaii. Heald College offers associate degrees in business and technology as well as various certification programs. Before this, Barton was President of DeVry University in Phoenix, Arizona. At both of these institutions, he was responsible for major curriculum innovations as well as enhancements to distance learning platforms.

From 1995-1999, Barton served as Vice President of Communications and Public Affairs for Motorola, Inc., where he led industry partnerships and public affairs strategies for one of the world's leading technology companies; managing regional teams in London, Geneva, Hong Kong and Tokyo.

A former professor of management and business at Pennsylvania State University Graduate Center at Great Valley, Barton was also a full-time lecturer in management communication at the Harvard Business School. He has also served on the faculties of Boston College and the University of Nevada at Las Vegas. Barton was named UNLV Teacher of the Year in the College of Business and Economics in 1992, ranking first out of 92 faculty members. He was also named the 1992 Ascendant Scholar of the Year by the Western Academy of Management.

Barton is the author of three textbooks devoted to enhancing and expanding studentÂ’s understanding of financial and business risk: Crisis In Organizations (1990: Thomson); Ethics: The Enemy in the Workplace (1995: Thomson); and Crisis in Organizations II (2001: Thomson). He received a coveted Senior Fulbright Scholarship to Japan from the U. S. Information Agency in 1987.

Barton is internationally renowned as one of the foremost specialists in risk and crisis management. As a consultant, he has helped world-class industry leading organizations, including British Petroleum, The Walt Disney Company, Honda, Exxon Mobil, and many others improve their business functions and strengthen their ability to anticipate and manage unexpected challenges. Barton has delivered keynote speeches and presentations at over 120 financial and academic conferences in nearly twenty countries, including conferences sponsored by the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (2003), as well as past presentations to the Risk and Insurance Management Society (RIMS) and to the Frost and Sullivan investment forums.

His articles have appeared in The New York Times, Boston Globe, USA Today, and more than 40 academic journals worldwide. Barton has been interviewed on CNBC, NPR Marketplace and other network programs on issues related to financial services, business insurance and crisis prevention. He has been profiled in The Wall Street Journal and other publications.

Barton is a native of Arlington, Massachusetts. He received an A. B., magna cum laude, from Boston College in speech and communications in 1978. In 1980, he graduated with a Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy from The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University. Barton received his Ph. D. in international communications and public policy from Boston University in 1983.

Barton succeeds Dr. Samuel H. Weese, CLU, CPCU, who is retiring after serving 15 years as the President and CEO of the College. Weese is credited with returning the College to a sound financial position and leading its expansion beyond life insurance into the broader financial services industry. Most recently, he is credited with overseeing the completion of the 21st Century Endowment and Special Gifts Campaign, which resulted in $32 million in deferred and special gifts for the future of the institution.

The American College celebrated its 75th anniversary last year as the nationÂ’s oldest and largest academically accredited educational institution devoted exclusively to financial services. Located on a 35-acre campus in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, the College serves over 35,000 working professional students, predominantly on a distance education basis. The American College offers an array of specialized designation programs, a Master of Science degree in financial services and customized continuing education programs for those pursuing a career in financial services. For more information, visit www. amercoll. edu.

# # #

National Geographic and HBO Among Those Honored in 1st Annual International Scientific Animation Awards and Forum

National Geographic and HBO Among Those Honored in 1st Annual International Scientific Animation Awards and Forum

Distinguished Jury selects international winners of first Sci-An Awards

Guiyang, Guizhou China (PRWEB) September 10, 2009

Mr. Liuyi Wang, Secretary General of The 1st Annual International Scientific Animation Awards and Forum (ISAAF) held in Guiyang, China, last month, announced the winners of this year's "Sci-An" Awards at the opening of the first International Scientific Animation Forum held in the People's Republic of China.

The event honored the extraordinary imagination and creativity of those transposing scientific concepts and conclusions into renderings of reality that reflect our unseen world.

Finalists from Japan, Taiwan, China, Korea, and Thailand were in competition with pieces created for CNN, HBO, National Geographic, Bristol Meyer's, and some of America's top medical animation companies for awards in only four categories; Physical Science, Natural Science, Children's Education, and Honorable Mention.

This year's Sci-An Awards went to:

Natural Science - NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC, USA
For its comprehensive 3D animation of changing global conditions in "Global Warming".

Physical Science - NUCLEUS MEDICAL ART, USA
For their detailed and nuanced 3D animation of human birth in "Birth and Complications".

Children's Education - JESTER INTERNATIONAL, Taiwan
For their informative and cartoon-like depiction of healthy bacteria on a child's arm fighting-off external pathogens for early primary school in "Oh! Bacteria".

Honorable Mention was awarded to JANNIS PRODUCTIONS - USA
For their complex and sophisticated rendering of bioactivity in the human brain at different stages of Alzheimer's, in HBO's special series "The Alzheimer's Project".

An international jury of the field's American pioneers and cutting edge producers of today's advanced 3D scientific imaging met with Chinese counterparts in related fields with an eye on the future, as scientific animation will grow exponentially in the 21st Century to serve medical, technological, mechanical industries and all areas of science, from micro and macro physics to biodiversity and astro-exploration.

ISAAF Founding Co-Chairman, David Bolinsky, Medical Director and Partner of XVIVO Scientific Animation, which produces advanced state-of-the-art 3D scientific renderings for Harvard Medical School, The Smithsonian Institute, and major international pharmaceutical companies inspired the audience with his body of work and gave the keynote address to the Forum, which was held in a converted factory that felt like a New York artist's loft.

The refurbished building had space dedicated to the furtherance of scientific animation, along with the establishment of the Asian-Pacific Animation & Comics Association (APACA), which hosted the inaugural ISAAF event.

The sciences and the arts have been two major complementary fields of study throughout time, one grounded in perceived facts and the other inspired by imagination.

They have often been supportive and resonant, but rarely as unified as is the case of scientific animation.

Scientific facts and beliefs regarding aspects of life that cannot be seen by the naked eye are creatively interpreted by animation artists, so as to best visually convey them for better understanding inside and outside the scientific community.

A televised awards show will be aired later this year and includes a live orchestra tribute to the legendary Hayao Miyazaki's animated films, with musical themes serenading brief montages from many of his animated features.

The renowned Jane Hurd, founder of Hurd Studios, juror, and one of the pioneers in the field of digital medical animation, presented her medical animation work out of competition, and addressed the emerging industry at the Sci-An Forum on the design elements and modes of thought that define and distinguish scientific animation.

Dr. Elizabeth Rega, juror, anatomist, anthropologist, medical school professor at Western University and science advisor to Walt Disney and other movie companies addressed the Sci-An Forum as well. Dr. Rega's research informs movie animators where correct attention to anthropological and anatomic detail can add as much truth to an animated movie as can the script and costumes.

"We're already planning next year's event with expanded categories and a greater range of recognition", said Sander K. Johnson, Founding Co-Chairman of ISAAF with Bolinsky, and president of International Television for Asia, "So much was accomplished this year; we look forward to becoming an annual tradition."

###