Saturday, February 26, 2011

CouponMeUp.com has today Launched its Terrific New Coupon Website

CouponMeUp.com has today launched its uber new coupon website. CouponMeUp.co.nz, aimed specifically at the New Zealand coupon market. The New Zealand coupon website will make sure that you never miss a deal again.

Sydney, NSW, February 27, 2011 -- CouponMeUp.com has today launched its uber new coupon website. CouponMeUp.co.nz, aimed specifically at the New Zealand coupon market. The New Zealand coupon website will make sure that you never miss a deal again.

Hot on the heels of a range of successful iPhone Apps, toolbars and of course their hit site CouponMeUp.com, they have just launched an A coupon website, CouponMeUp.co.nz

"Our development team is totally zippy at the moment" said the Product manager, "Our iPhone App is just out, Australian site, toolbars completed for 2 of the main browsers and they have all be outstanding successes! This week we have our New Zealand coupon site out and we have many, many more releases queued up for the next few weeks so keep your eyes on the site!" he continued.

The site allows users to browse and search for coupons directly from New Zealand eCommerce Stores. The site will launch with nearly 500 stores supported and should quickly grow to thousands of stores and coupons following on from the success of CouponMeUp.com in the US market which now supports over 50,000 stores.

"We will be looking to roll out a number of country based coupon sites following on from the hugely successful launch of our first country site, AllCoupons.in." the manager said.

To browse or get your coupons listed on our site, simply visit CouponMeUp.co.nz

About CouponMeUp.com:
CouponMeUp.com is a leading online coupon site, with thousands of coupons codes from over 50,000 leading online retailers. To learn more about coupons or to start using coupons, visit www.couponmeup.com

About CouponMeUp.co.nz
CouponMeUp.co.nz is an up and coming Australia coupon site, with hundreds
of coupons codes from hundreds of leading online New Zealand retailers. To learn more about coupons or to start using coupons, visit

Contact:
John Paul
Straight Line PR
4th cross street
Mumbai, Maharashtra 400069
8056122162

SAFE International Expands Workplace Violence and Harassment Training Courses – Canada Self Defense

SAFE International is expanding its Workplace Violence and Harassment Training Courses throughout Canada and all of North America.

Toronto, ON, February 27, 2011 - (Straight Line PR) - Canada Self Defense, SAFE International Expands Workplace Violence And Harassment Training Courses.

SAFE International is the leading provider of mobile self defense/personal protection training in Canada. SAFE International has taught more than 120,000 clients in the private, corporate and high school environments since 1994. SAFE International is expanding its Workplace Violence and Harassment Training Courses throughout Canada and all of North America. The company is owned and managed by Chris Roberts who is a professional teaching Director and self-defense consultant.

SAFE International Workplace Violence and Harassment Training Courses provide employees and management with tips and strategies to recognize, avoid, and handle personal security risks specific to their jobs. Many companies have job descriptions which carry a certain amount of risk to their employees. Professions such as real estate, traveling sales staff, in-home health care, as well as other health care businesses such as registered massage therapy, or any profession which requires the employee to visit clients at their home carries risk. Prior to the commencement of training, SAFE International instructors spend time with each company learning about their employees and communicating with Department Leaders and those employees working in the field. It is through this personal attention that SAFE International is able to truly design a course that will have lasting positive effects for their clients and their employees.

SAFE International teaches that Recognizing and Avoiding dangerous situations is always the top priority. SAFE International instructors will address the daily routines and the risks that employees encounter in their daily jobs. Something as simple as where you park your car at the client’s home or office can be the difference between a quick escape or finding yourself in a violent confrontation. Through role playing and discussion, participants will learn how to take common sense measures to reduce the risk of becoming a victim. The knowledge they gain can be applied to all aspects of their profession – direct sales, interacting with customers and fellow employees, travel and other work related transactions.

Clients are taught how to recognize different forms of verbal abuse, and how to defuse in order to resolve conflict without violence. Many people are most uncomfortable with the verbal side of conflict and have no realistic training to deal with the emotions and psychological impact that a verbal assault has on them. Clients participate in verbal drills specific to their job related challenges. It is through these reality based drills that your employees will develop the confidence to handle various forms of abuse, without the need to be physical, while also preparing oneself in the event that it does. SAFE International believes that not only is self protection a necessity, but it is now a form of insurance that will make your business more profitable and your employees more confident and secure.

The second phase of a SAFE International Workplace Violence and Harassment course is the physical aspect which addresses how to React and Respond in the event that conflict becomes physical. Participants are taught basic, gross motor self defense skills meant to help one get away safely and as quick as possible. The principles of their teachings are based on how to react instinctively without having to think about what to do. This is not martial arts, but rather, real skills meant for real life scenarios. SAFE International is a complete course covering everything from A to Z in the event of workplace violence. SAFE International addresses the emotional, psychological, verbal and physical segments of violence in today’s world.

To contact SAFE International and Chris Roberts to schedule your Workplace Violence and Harassment Course anywhere in North America, you can visit their main site at www.safeinternational.biz . You can also view Chris’ self defense blog at www.selfdefensecanada.info & Toronto Blog: www.torontoselfdefense.info

You can also reach Chris Roberts toll free at 1-800-465-5972 or by email at chrisroberts@safeinternational.biz

Contact :
Chris Roberts
SAFE International™
15535 Cooper Rd.
Lunenburg, ON
Canada K0C 1R0
1 800 465-5972

Friday, February 25, 2011

Ted L. Nancy Announces "Stories From A Moron" Now on Kindle

Ed Broth’s book available again.

Glendale, CA, February 25, 2011 -- Ted L. Nancy, author of the "Letters from A Nut" series of hit comedy books, is proud to announce that "Stories From A Moron" is now available to download on Kindle, Nook, or your computer.

The book, long our of print, has become available on Amazon.com or Barnes and Noble online as well as a host of other digital booksellers. It is published by St. Martins Press, a division of Macmillan Books.

Ted L. Nancy, who is of course, Barry Marder, wrote the book under the name Ed Broth. It includes a Foreword by Jerry Seinfeld.

"I was sick under Canadian knockoff prescription medications when I wrote the Moron book, says Nancy. "I didn’t know my name for a blackout period of 4 months." Otherwise I would have written it under Ted L. Nancy. I am also Ed Broth. I am ashamed. (If anyone cares)

"Stories From A Moron" is short stories Mr. Broth wrote and sent to magazines ill suited for them. For instance, he would write a story about shorty pajamas drying on a clothesline and send it to a fencing magazine. The fencing magazine would return the story explaining their magazine was for people into the art of fencing and swordsmanship. Ed would resubmit the story and send it back now with some fencing jammed in to the same story.

Ed would then send that whole mess of a story to a steamboat cruise magazine. They would send it back as not right for them. Ed would add some steamboating - toot tooting - a steamboat captain - along with the drying pajamas and fencing and resend it.

"There’s enough nonsense in here for everybody," says Ted. The book has many weird illustrations by Alan Marder, who also illustrates all the Ted L. Nancy "Nut" books.

Ted L. Nancy® is a registered trademark of Barry Marder. His website is TEDLNANCY.COM

Jerry Seinfeld took Barry Marder on "Larry King Live" and "The Today Show" with Matt Lauer in September 2010 and revealed Marder as the true author of the "Letters From A Nut" books. Phyllis Murphy is Mr. Nancy’s muse. She DOES NOT like cole slaw. Keep it away from her.

For any inquiries contact Eric Bjorgum at 213-785-8070.Bjorgum is Ted’s Norwegian attorney.

Contact:
Mr. Eric Bjorgum
Ted L. Nancy®
Glendale, CA
213-785-8070

AuraPortal Launches the First BPM Software with a Seamlessly Integrated e-Commerce System

Every Company can now Setup their own Internet Shopping Cart Platform, without requiring Outsourced Specialists.

Woburn (Boston), MA, February 25, 2011 -- AuraPortal (www.auraportal.com), a global provider of Business Process Management (BPM) software, has announced today the international launch of their Online Commerce Module which allows companies to offer their products on the Internet to their customers, through an attractively designed and well organized web user interface with improved ease of use and comprehensive purchasing transaction capabilities.

AuraPortal has developed a complete e-Commerce (Online Commerce) Module, which includes Content Management, a Shopping Cart and a Payment Gateway, allowing companies to link all their Internet sales with their internal business processes workflow (BPM).

With this new Module, companies will be able to start their own Online Commerce channel without the need of IT programming. Hence, with AuraPortal their business employees can easily and rapidly design a totally customized system, with all transaction activity able to be monitored by the AuraPortal BPM Module.

AuraPortal has taken into account the integration with search engine positioning (e.g. Google), and therefore it includes the automatic creation of the Site-Map, in order to automatically publish every selling product in the internal indexes of these search systems.

"Sales operations have never been this automated", according to Pablo Trilles, Vice President of AuraPortal. "The integration of e-Commerce with existing and enhanced Sales and Supply Chain Processes is an extraordinary advancement. The fact that the e-Commerce environment can be handled completely by business users without any technical resource is also a greatly beneficial, which gives companies a tremendous amount of agility and flexibility, by reducing their time to market, and increasing their speed to business process enhancement."AuraPortal was the first BPM vendor to integrate CRM features into its BPMS, creating the first fully customizable CRM application based on business processes that are auto-executed (and without programming), in the international market.

About Aura (AuraPortal) (http://www.auraportal.com)
AURA is a global BPMS (Business Process Management Suite) provider delivering a solution that creates, without the need of IT programming, Business Process Workflow Execution Models. AuraPortal is 100% Web-based, and is complementary to existing ERP and CRM systems.

AuraPortal has a presence in 50 countries with more than 350 customers including, among others: Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, Frito-Lay, Toyota, Yamaha, Petroleos Mexicanos (PEMEX), Carrefour, ArcelorMittal, Eletrobras, Saras, Royal KPN, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Sodexo, etc., as well as many Government Agencies and Departments in several countries.

AuraPortal Headquarters are located in North America (Boston) and Europe (Holland) whereas the software development facilities are located in Spain and India.

See Partners Network and more Customers

AuraPortal is a real Business Process Platform where a set of 6 essential applications share the same environment in a seamlessly integrated and user friendly way: "6 in 1":

1.Intranet
2.Process Management
3.Document Management
4.Customer Management
5.Content Management
6.Online Commerce

WHAT THE TOP EXPERTS SAY ABOUT AURAPORTAL BPMS:

GARTNER Inc.: "AuraPortal is the Example of Next generation BPMS". (Magic Quadrant Report 2007 and 2009)

OVUM: "AuraPortal Excels in Ovum's technology assessment study which was set by a highly competitive field". "The vendor has demonstrated that its BPM platform can support complex processes and high-throughput scenarios". (OVUM - Decision Matrix on BPM Vendors 2010)

BPTRENDS: There is a 2010 Report on AuraPortal BPMS published by this prestigious firm. Click here to download an extract or the full report. (BPM Suites Report 2010)

Auraportal Contacts:
Scott Rich
Skype: scott.marketingintl
Phone: +1 781-569-5940 or +1 978-808-6340
The Netherlands: info-nl@auraportal.nl

Follow us... Twitter - Facebook - LinkedIn - YouTube - RSS Feed - AuraPortal Blog

Contact:
Scott Rich
Auraportal
400 Trade Center
Woburn, MA 01801-7472
+1 781-569-5940

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Hospitality Gets its Own Social Network: Welcome to PineZapple.com

PineZapple is the new Internet destination where hospitality hangs out.

Oshkosh, WI, February 23, 2011 -- Hospitality insiders-including those in travel, lodging, food and beverage, meeting and events, gaming, entertainment and recreation, tourism services, and visitor information-can now create a professional profile, maintain a list of contacts, and invite others to join their list of industry connections.

"With downsizing, industry consolidation, and budget cutbacks," says PineZapple President, Todd Kempinger, "there’s no place for the hospitality industry to connect." In addition, traditional trade shows are becoming cost-prohibitive and ineffective. "Today’s ‘industry’ conventions only link up small subsets of the available talent, insight, and innovation," continues Kempinger, "and big social networking sites don’t have the focus and structure to be effective for the unique needs of today’s uber-connected hospitality staffers."

PineZapple also offers a fun and effective way to search for jobs, business opportunities, people, events, news, take advantage of insider travel bargains, and much more.

With the increasing demands on hospitality professionals during these downturn times, the PineZapple community can connect, share, learn, and grow all within one easy to use online destination: PineZapple.com.

About Pinezapple:
In some cultures, the pineapple has become associated with the notion of welcome. PineZapple is a welcoming worldwide network of hospitality industry colleagues connecting around the globe. Within the PineZapple community you can find a solution, make a connection, share a story, announce an event, promote a deal, plan a weekend, find a new job, and much more.

Contact:
Todd Kempinger
President
PineZapple
PO Box 2383
Oshkosh, WI 54903-2383
920-379-6405

Luxury Travel Vietnam to Recommend Safe Cruise Options in Halong Bay

Luxury Travel Vietnam To Use High-end Junk Boats and Recommend Safe Cruise Options in Halong Bay.

Hanoi, Vietnam, February 23, 2011 -- Luxury Travel Vietnam To Use High-end Junk Boats and Recommend Safe Cruise Options in Halong Bay.

Ha Long Bay is a world heritage site and one of Vietnam's popular tourist destinations. It is located about three hours east of Hanoi in the Gulf of Tonkin near the northern Chinese border. The emerald water is dotted with 1,700 dramatic limestone formations that form tiny islands.

Some 500 boats are licensed to take tourists on cruises. Many opt for day tours, while others prefer to sleep in overnight cabins on wooden junks, ranging from budget to luxury accommodation.

Hanoi’s based tour operators offer daily packages of different budgets from Hanoi to Halong Bay. Many of tourists book cheap packages and use shuttle bus.

"Sadly cheap deal costs lives in Halong Bay in the recent tragedy. Luxury Travel offers a wide ranges of private tours and boat cruises in Halong Bay ranging from a day trip to 2 nights options on boat. The company customers can charter a private junk in Halong Bay for whole family for fun, exclusive and personalized services or privacty and fly back to Hanoi by helicopter if requested" said Pham Ha, Founder and CEO of Luxury Travel Company.

Luxury Travel Team recommends the best junks in Halong Bay featuring on their website (www.luxurytravelvietnam.com) in term of comfort, uniquenesss, excellent food, friendly staff, interesting cruise itinerary with many activities on boat, service excellence, attention to details, stylish, elegance, sophistication and of course SAFETY guaranteed. Indochina Sails, Emeraude, Gingers, Paradises, Bhaya cruises are named among many others.

"Our award winning specialists have served the luxury travel industry since the 2004 and have acquired first-hand knowledge about boats in Halong Bay. We have visited Halong Bay uncountable times and have personally checked out the finest and safest boats designed for discriminating travelers. We know which room numbers have a view and nicest in each boat. We often recommend your guests and book for them a room on upper floor on boat." said Pham Ha.

The company is offering 2 days/1 night cruise from Hanoi at 299 USD per person based the on the private party of two persons on Indochina Sails, a tranditional junk buit of aromatic wood and other special materials, is the perfect vessel for exploring this magnificent seascape. The tour prices includes private picks up and drop off services by a private car, transfer to Halong bay by a private car, entrances fees, all meals, welcome drink, kaykak and a private deluxe cabin with a view on the upper floor of the junk.

"Excellent cruise, value for money. We definitely recommend Luxury Travel Ltd and two-night cruise in Halong Bay. We had the best time and met some wonderful people. Our tour guide was great and a lovely friendly man who spoke excellent English and taught us many things about local history and other events. Halong Bay is absolutely beautiful. Our cabin on second floor with a wonderful view, was great and very comfortable with good air conditioning. The food was fantastic, plenty to eat and the drinks were reasonably priced. We had no issues with security and felt completely safe, and even left our valuables in our cabin with peace of mind, even though a safe was available. Our only regret was that we didn't do the two-night cruise" said Mat from London, United Kingdom, a couple has just come back from Halong Bay on this private tour of Luxury Travel Company.

Luxury Travel Company, Vietnam’s Leading Bespoke Travel Experience Company, is Highly Experienced in Providing Special Services and Unique Tourism Products to Luxury Global Travelers. Luxury Travel is headquartered in Hanoi and has offices around the country and management offices in Indochina, Myanmar and Thailand.

For private tours and cruises and online booking, visit www.luxurytravelvietnam.com

Contact:
Pham Ha
Luxury Travel Company
05 Nguyen Truong To Street
Ba Dinh Dist
Hanoi, Vietnam 71000
Tel:+84.4.3927 4120
Fax:+84.4.3927 4118

Stephen Shapiro Free Webinar. Personality Poker Finds Your Strong Suit

Over 25,000 people in dozens of Fortune 500 companies have played Personality Poker to spur innovation and optimize growth. Spade, diamond, club or heart? Find out by taking one of the easiest and fun personality tests ever created. Gain insights and uncover your strong suit - be better able to achieve at higher levels. When co-workers play together the result is improved team building, innovation and job satisfaction.

Las Vegas, NV, February 23, 2011 (Straight Line PR) -- Zoozili, the worldwide solution community, announces a live webinar with author and business innovator Stephen Shapiro. Stephen will be sharing how his latest tool for innovation and collaboration - the Personality Poker cards and book - benefits both employees and employers. Zoozili Founder Steven Seppinni will host the webinar.

The free Stephen Shapiro Personality Poker book webinar is scheduled for 9:00 PM Eastern Time on Thursday, February 24th (6:00 PM Pacific). Registration for this one-time-only webinar is still open. Anyone interested in participating can register for free at http://zoozili.com/

More than a decade ago, Stephen Shapiro went on a quest to find efficiency and predictability in innovation. After years of working for Accenture and consulting for some of the world's largest companies, he noticed that the same problem resurfaced time and again. Companies of all sizes kept repeatedly failing in their innovation efforts. For some reason, even though these companies had spent millions of dollars in facilities, labs and instruments, they had forgotten the most crucial component... the people.

Shapiro's quest has resulted in Personality Poker: a book and unique set of cards that foster innovation. Companies such as Dell, Staples, Chevron, USAA, Tyco, Nestle and Johnson & Johnson have used Personality Poker ( http://PersonalityPokerBook.com/ ) to enhance the performance of their companies and employees.

"The result is a higher probability of stronger teams with a greater utilization of strengths and acceptance of differences than other group style awareness exercises," says Bruce Harned, President of MarketFit Associates.

Stephen Shapiro ( http://www.SteveShapiro.com/ ) is one of the foremost authorities on innovation culture, collaboration, and open innovation. Dell, Johnson & Johnson, Staples, Chevron, Nestle and many other leading corporations have sought out Shapiro for his expertise on enhancing innovation.

Is your organization playing with a full deck? Is each member playing to their strong suit? Let's find out.

"Personality Poker may be a game, but it provides some serious results." - Wouter Koetzier, Global Innovation Lead, Accenture

This Thursday, February 26th, author and innovator Stephen Shapiro will be featured in a Zoozili exclusive webinar. Company owners, employees and entrepreneurs will all profit from Shapiro's proven methods of fostering leadership and innovation. To register for the free webinar, please visit http://zoozili.com/

About Stephen Shapiro
During his 15-year tenure with the international consulting firm Accenture, Stephen Shapiro ( http://www.SteveShapiro.com/ ) established and led their Global Process Excellence Practice, delivering innovation training to 20,000 consultants. Drawing on his corporate expertise, Shapiro expanded on his innovative concepts to counsel individuals, as well as businesses, to realize their full potential with less effort and more personal satisfaction.

Articulate, knowledgeable, and provocative, Shapiro quickly captures the attention of his audience in a style that is equally as innovative and inventive as his subject matter. He has presented his own tried-and-tested formula for success to hundreds of thousands of people in 28 countries. Among the dozens of leading organizations he has advised are Staples, GE, Fidelity Investments, Pearson Education, BMW, Frito Lay, UPS, Xerox, and Bristol-Myers Squibb.

To register for the February 26th webinar, visit http://zoozili.com/

Please contact http://www.PressReleaseNation.com for corrections or to update this press release.

Contact:
Stephen Shapiro
SteveShapiro.com
2001 Marina Drive
Suite 807
Quincy, MA 02171
617-379-1177
press@richcontent.tv
http://zoozili.com/

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Majority of Homeowners Believe in Miracles

The new Housing Predictor opinion poll found that a majority say policymakers in Washington, D.C. should stop tinkering with the free market system to allow it to fix itself over time.

Destin, FL, February 22, 2011 -- Apparently the majority of Americans believe in miracles when it comes to the housing market. A new survey shows that a majority of respondents feel that Congress and the White House should stop trying to repair the damaged housing market so it can heal itself.

As the U.S. struggles to recover from the worst downturn in real estate in decades, the Obama administration and Congress have been implementing efforts to help markets recover. The foreclosure crisis has topped 5-million homes and is gaining momentum as more and more homeowners, who have lost equity in their homes walk away from properties.

The new Housing Predictor opinion poll found that a majority say policymakers in Washington, D.C. should stop tinkering with the free market system to allow it to fix itself over time. Visit Housing Predictor dot com for details on the survey, check housing forecasts and mortgage rates.

Consumers, bankers, mortgage companies, retail outlets and real estate firms consult Housing Predictor forecasts. Housing Predictor forecasts more than 230 housing markets in all 50 states and offers real estate news, foreclosure listings and analysis on the housing market. at http://www.housingpredictor.com

Contact:
Mike Colpitts
Editor
HousingPredictor.com
225 Main Street
Destin, FL 32541
850-622-1016

Innova Biosciences Launches New Immunogen Conjugation Kits

Innova Biosciences (Cambridge, UK) the inventor of the World’s easiest to use antibody labeling kits, has extended its product portfolio.

Cambridge, UK, February 22, 2011 - Innova Biosciences (Cambridge, UK) the inventor of the World’s easiest to use antibody labeling kits, has extended its product portfolio. For scientists to generate novel antibodies, it is necessary to perform a conjugation reaction (the joining of two molecules) to link the target protein or peptide to a carrier protein such as BSA or Ovalbumin. Conjugation reactions are traditionally daunting and laborious to the non-specialist.

Innova Biosciences imm-Link™ kits have been designed to take the difficulty out of this conjugation process through simplifying both the linking chemistry and the methodology itself – the conjugate is created simply by adding the target protein or peptide to a freeze dried mixture containing the relevant chemistry and the carrier protein.

Commenting on the launch of the new range, Brian Carpenter Innova Biosciences Sales and Marketing Manager ‘The new imm-Link™ range emphasises the ethos behind our company which is to take the complexities out of conjugation, and provide the technology in a simple to use format. We have no doubt the new imm-Link™ will be of great interest to our international customer base.’

About the company
Innova Biosciences is a growing, dynamic business, based in Cambridge, UK. At the core of Innova’s business is the Lightning-Link an innovative technology that simplifies antibody labelling for use in R&D applications, drug discovery and diagnostics. The expanding Lightning-Link portfolio currently consists of 44 individual products and is sold to research laboratories in over 30 countries around the world.

Innova Biosciences invites anyone with an interest in immunogen conjugation to view the new product range available at www.innovabiosciences.com.

For Further information or an illustrative image: Media contact - Mathew Taylor, Director, Algorythm Solutions Ltd, mobile: +44 (0)773 403 2112, email: mtaylor@algorythmsolutions.com, website: www.algorythmsolutions.com

Contact:
Mathew Taylor
Director
Algorythm Solutions Ltd
10 Torkington St
Stamford
Lincolnshire PE9 2UY
+44 (0)773 403 2112

Friday, February 18, 2011

International Astrological Scholarships to be Awarded for First Time in History by the RASA School of Astrology

RASA School of Astrology, an internationally recognized accredited school of astrology.

Toronto, ON, Canada, February 15, 2011 -- RASA School of Astrology, an internationally recognized accredited school of astrology.

RASA School of Astrology is awarding scholarships to students around the world. Two scholarships will be awarded per country world-wide. This represents a total of $392,000 in grants spread across 196 countries. The awards cover the cost of the four year curriculum. It is the first global astrology scholarship program in history.

This represents a significant upgrading of the status of astrology in today’s world. The program will make the serious study of astrology available around the world and assist in developing meaningful careers in the field of astrology. The scholarship program reaches beyond inequalities of national currencies, opening the door to students from poorer countries.

Computer technology has brought astrology out of the dark ages of hand calculations. Properly calculated horoscopes are now economically available to the average person. Access to good astrology study programs is still relatively expensive and it takes years of study to become a competent astrologer. The RASA School of Astrology scholarships are intended to provide professional development and credibility in this rapidly evolving field.

Most universities do not offer courses on astrology, with the exception, perhaps, of those in India and of Kepler College in the United States. Libraries being the caretakers of accumulated knowledge have preserved vast amounts of astrological material. The Library of Congress, the British Library, libraries in Madrid and in the Vatican, all contain particularly large collections of astrology books.

To try to understand the world before 1500, without some understanding of astrology would fallacy. Calendars and almanacs were developed under the auspices of astrology. Ancient priests, wise men and shamans were also healers and astrologers. Astrology has been called the mother of all sciences, as it is the precursor of them. Mathematics, astronomy, biology, agriculture, medicine, philosophy, religion, music, theatre, literature, and architecture all have roots in astrology.

The field of astrology includes both objective and subjective perspectives, including aspects of both science and religion. Astrology is a far vaster and more inclusive field of study than it is generally given credit for.

During the 15th century renaissance, the invention of the printing press ushered in the age of the written word. During the last half of the 20th century to the present, the invention of the computer has ushered in the age of the bitten word. Information is now becoming available that has been isolated or obscured for hundreds of years. Material on the validity and history of astrology is revitalizing an interest in the language of the stars. Against the groundswell of popular identification with astrology, institutions are developing where people can study to become competent astrologers.

The curriculum of the RASA School of Astrology was certified by Professional Astrologers Inc. It offers a four year course with 350 hours of class instruction. A detailed curriculum can be seen on the school website at www.rasa.ws

Robin Armstrong, the founder and President of RASA has been teaching since 1973. Robin ran an astrological library for thirty years, and has lists of the astrological contents from several of the world’s larger libraries, including the Vatican.

Contact:
Lisa Swarbrick
RASA School of Astrology
91B Edward St.
Aurora, ON L4G 1W1
905-841-8565

Tour Operator Travcoa Announces Savings for Single Travelers

Luxury tour operator Travoca has announced a 50 percent reduction in the supplements for single travelers on eight, small-group Escorted Journeys departing through September, 2011.

El Segundo, CA, February 18, 21011 -- Luxury tour operator Travoca has announced a 50 percent reduction in the supplements for single travelers on eight, small-group Escorted Journeys departing through September, 2011. The company further plans an ongoing campaign in 2011 and 2012 to reduce the supplements typically paid by single travelers.

"Travcoa’s small-group Escorted Journeys have always been a popular choice for single travelers due to the services and attention of a Travcoa Travel Director and because we always ensure our singles get exactly the same room categories and benefits as other travelers." said Travcoa president Jerre Fuqua, "We’re now doubling our efforts with hotel partners to reduce rates and make Travcoa journeys an even greater value for the single traveler in the coming years."

Eight select departure dates are being offered to Travcoa single travelers at the 50 percent single supplement discount in 2011. The journeys, listed in detail on the company website at http://www.travcoa.com/single-traveler , include a balance of classic European destinations and more adventurous journeys in Asia and Africa. Savings for single travelers on these departures range from approximately $500 to almost $1000:

Ancient Crossroads of Turkey & Armenia departing May 12, 2011 features the unique cultural, historical and geological highlights of Turkey and Armenia.

Undiscovered Italy departing June 24, 2011 voyages along the beautiful Italian east coast visiting historic and charming but less visited town and villages.

Timeless Namibia by Private Plane departing June 18, 2011 explores the fascinating cultures, wildlife and landscapes of one of Africa’s most beautiful countries.

Splendors of Sicily departing June 24, 2011 features a unique blend of history with the famous hospitality, food and wines of the legendary island.

North Korea departing September 11, 2011 allows a first-hand, insider’s view of this complex, enigmatic nation.

Resplendent Russia departing September 1, 2011 offers a luxurious and in-depth view of Russia’s rich history and artistic treasures.

Albania, Macedonia & Beyond departing September 16, 2011 explores the fascinating cultures and historic sites of a rarely visited region.

The Nile Revealed departing September 4, 2011 provides an insider’s view on a classic journey through 5000 years of history.

Due to limited room availability at many of the smaller properties used on Travcoa’s journeys, single traveler offers are subject to availability and may be capacity controlled. For more information about current and future single travel offers see http://www.travcoa.com/single-traveler or contact Travcoa reservations at 800-992-2003.

About Travcoa
Travcoa has been leading in-depth explorations of the world’s most interesting destinations since 1954, and offers three types of travel experiences around the globe: small-group "Escorted Journeys" with comprehensive itineraries and guided by professional Travel Directors; "Private Journeys" for independent travelers who prefer an exclusive traveling party and departure date; and "Expeditions" to remote destinations and events around the world using specially configured Boeing 757s, expedition cruise ships or classic airliners. For more information and to order a brochure visit http://www.travcoa.com or call (800) 992-2005.

Contact:
Perry Lungmus
Travcoa
100 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Suite 1700
El Segundo, CA 90245
206-508-3021

Thursday, February 17, 2011

Hanover Educator Wins Top Spot in University's Alternate Reality Game

The game, which debuted during the 2011 Pennsylvania Educational Technology Expo and Conference (PETE&C), was designed by two Harrisburg University of Science and Technology faculty members.

Harrisburg, PA, February 17, 2011 -- When it comes to improving teachers' performance at a traditionally under-performing high school, Michelle Krill showed she was up to the task when she bested 150 other contestants to emerge as the winner of a new Harrisburg University designed Alternate Reality Game entitled "I Love Trees."

The game, which debuted during the 2011 Pennsylvania Educational Technology Expo and Conference (PETE&C), was designed by two Harrisburg University of Science and Technology faculty members. The game places contestants in the role of a newly hired Principal at under-performing West Side High. In order to improve performance at West Side High, Krill had to "grow" the Powerful Learning Practice (PLP) Tree of Knowledge. From this tree, the school gained access to the knowledge and resources necessary to thrive in a 21st century teaching and learning environment.

An Instructional Technology Coach at South Western School District in Hanover, Pennsylvania, Krill scored the maximum 3,650 points by answering questions, taking polls, solving puzzles, completing online tasks and entering codes.

Designed by Charles Palmer and Andy Petroski of Harrisburg University, I Love Trees combines real-world experience with fictional clues, puzzles and communication in an interactive game format. I Love Trees is a story-based and problem-based experience that promotes the use of online resources, collaboration among game players and critical thinking related to the storyline and problem-based activities.

ARGs are not computer or video games, though electronic devices including computers, cell phones, and GPS-enabled handhelds are used to access clues. Clues can be anywhere--websites, stores, signs, recorded telephone messages or printed materials. ARGs are not role-playing games. Players normally function as themselves in a real-world environment

The game's designers were thrilled with the response to the game and the engagement of players.

"Feedback from participants supports what we already know about games as tools for learning. Players become immersed in game play, competition and fun, but also develop problem-solving skills in a social and experiential environment," says Petroski. "Confidence and satisfaction are also gained throughout game play as players achieve smaller tasks that add to their overall score and achievement through a game regardless of whether or not they are the leader."

Harrisburg University's expertise and exploration of games, simulations and virtual worlds goes well beyond the I Love Trees ARG. The University, through the Center for Advanced Entertainment & Learning Technologies (CAEL&T) and the Learning Technologies Master of Science (LTMS) program conducts a yearly event that brings serious game designers from around the country to Harrisburg, PA. The Learning and Entertainment Evolution Forum (LEEF) showcases immersive learning case studies, design and development sessions and a high tech demo area where attendees can explore new technologies that may impact game and simulation design in the future. In addition the LTMS program offers a concentration in Games & Simulations and offers individual courses on the use of games and virtual worlds as part of the summer Educators Technology Clinic series of courses. Finally, the CAEL&T offers the Summer Gaming Academy, a 20-day intensive commuter summer program designed to introduce passionate young game designers and developers to the methods and technologies used by professional game makers throughout the world.
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A leader in the fields of multimedia and information technology, Charles Palmer serves as director of the CAELT. Charles leads the Center as well as spearheads new developments in digital storytelling and forms of entertainment technology. He is a creative educator, administrator, and producer. He previously served as a faculty member at Carnegie Mellon University's Entertainment Technology Center (ETC) since 2004.

Andy Petroski coordinates the Learning Technologies Master of Science (LTMS) program and learning technologies at Harrisburg University as Director of Learning Technologies. In 2010, Andy received the "Technology Educator of the Year" honors from TECHQuest PA. The honor recognizes Andy as an "outstanding example of IInformation Age Educator" using current technologies to educate, motivate and inspire students to develop careers in technology fields and become lifelong learners." The award-winning instructional technologist has more than 14 years of eLearning design and development experience in multimedia production firms, independent consulting, corporate learning and education.

Harrisburg University is home to a Learning Technologies Master of Science (LTMS) program and the Center for Advanced Entertainment & Learning Technologies (CAELT). The CAELT works with regional organizations on advanced technology projects in entertainment and learning and coordinates the annual Learning and Entertainment Evolution Forum (LEEF) with the LTMS program. LEEF brings leading serious game and simulation designers from around the world together to showcase their work in games and simulations for learning. The CAELT and the LTMS program have also worked with the Innovation Transfer Network (ITN) to create the Serious Games and Simulations Xchange, a group of universities and businesses that will work together to increase the serious game and simulation activity in central PA. The LTMS program provides opportunities for students to explore games and simulations for learning through the LTMS 603: Engaging with Activities, Games and Simulations course as part of the Educators' Technology Clinic format and will be offering a concentration in game and simulation design as part of the LTMS degree beginning in the fall of 2010.

Founded in 2001 to address Central Pennsylvania's need for increased opportunities for study leading to careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields, Harrisburg University is an innovative and ambitious private institution that produces graduates who provide increased competence and capacity in science and technology disciplines to Pennsylvania and the nation. Harrisburg University ensures institutional access for underrepresented students and links learning and research to practical outcomes. As a private University serving the public good, Harrisburg University remains the only STEM-focused comprehensive university located between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.

For more information on the University's demand-driven undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs in applied science and technology fields, call 717.901.5146 or email Connect@HarrisburgU.edu.

Contact:
Steven Infanti
Harrisburg University Communications
326 Market Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101
717.901.5146

MAX Agency Toronto Talent is Working with Coco Cola and Auditioning with Degrassi High

MAX Agency Toronto Talent is working with Coco Cola and auditioning with Degrassi High. MAX Agency Toronto is Making big News.

Toronto, ON, Canada, February 17, 2011 - MAX Agency Toronto Talent is working with Coco Cola and auditioning with Degrassi High. MAX Agency Toronto is Making big News.


The very talented MAX Toronto Model Julia landed a Print Ad with Soft Drink Giant, Coca-Cola back in the summer. With her extensive training and professionalism, Julia was asked to come back and work with them again! Not only that but, Coca Cola decided to come back and see what other MAX Talent was on the MAX Agency Toronto’s Roster. This time, it was the lovely MAX Toronto Model Shelly that landed another audition with the Franchise giant. 


More big news for this week was an audition for MAX Agency Actor Jay for Degrassi The Next Generation. Currently filming in its eleventh season, Degrassi The Next Generation is one of the most popular shows on TV right now and New Face MAX Actor Jay landed a huge audition for the role of Noah. Only 16 years old a man of few words, Degrassi’s new heartthrob is good with his hands and quick with a grin.

MAX Agency: Toronto Based Model And Talent Management Agency

Welcome to Max Agency - one of the most successful model and talent management agencies in Canada representing men, women and children. Max Agency is involved in providing actors, models and entertainers for the film, television, fashion and advertising industries as well as appearance in trade shows, promotions and special events.

Max Agency has a team of dedicated professionals that know the ins and outs of the fashion and modeling game. Whether the talent is an established face with a working portfolio or someone who is unsure of their ability to work in the industry, Max Agency provides qualitative evaluation to find the right fit for an individual’s career goals. Max Agency's ability to recognize and identify new talent from around the world has positioned it at the forefront of model management and talent discovery. We have a wealth of experience and knowledge in the fashion, modeling and entertainment industries resulting in it expertly overseeing the careers of a wide variety of models and talents.

Talent Management Agency: Toronto Models And Actors
If you are a new or experienced Toronto model/actor who would like the benefits of working with a top model agency in Toronto, then Max Agency is your modeling agent. As one of the top modeling agencies in Toronto, we make it easier for Toronto models to break into the modeling industry and be seen by top agents and clients. With an emphasis on personal detail & development, new Toronto models and actors receive the attention needed to achieve success. We help Toronto models realize their full potential.

Are you interested in being part of Max Agency? If you think you have what it takes to become a professional model/talent or background performer, please send us your filled-in Application Form with accurate information and stats and we will contact you within 72 hours.

Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the rest of the month. MAX Agency Toronto is busier then ever, and has big things planned for the near future!

If you think you have what it takes to be the next big Toronto Talent be sure to contact MAX Agency.

For more information about MAX Agency, please visit www.maxagency.com

Or email info@maxagency.com, Call directly, (416) 482-5392

Contact:
Natalya O
MAX Agency
2063 Yonge St. Suite 202
Toronto, ON M4S-2A2
416-482-5392

Ottawa Self Defense - SAFE International Offers Women’s Self Defense Parties

Ottawa Self Defense, SAFE International Offers Women’s Self Defense Parties. SAFE International is the leading provider of mobile self defense/personal protection training in Canada.

Ottawa, ON, February 17, 2011 - (Straight Line PR) - Ottawa Self Defense, SAFE International Offers Women’s Self Defense Parties. SAFE International is the leading provider of mobile self defense/personal protection training in Canada. It currently operates throughout Ottawa and has taught more than 120,000 clients in the private, corporate and high school environments since 1994. SAFE International is expanding its seminar options to include women’s self defense parties.

SAFE International quickly realized that women had completely different concerns, fears, and needs than males. Chris Roberts, CEO of SAFE International listened to their concerns and tailored something that was not only educational, but also met their personal fears. Men have no idea what women go through on an everyday basis from the stares and comments to the physical gestures and advances.

One of the reasons that SAFE International enjoys teaching Ottawa women’s self defense, is how receptive women are to the skills that the SAFE International instructors provide. Chris Roberts attributes this to their appreciating the value in what is taught. While most men are receptive, they are usually more interested in knowing how to fight. Women are interested in learning, based more on their survival in today’s reality. Each skill or tactic taught could potentially save their life, and you can see it in the way they practice and adopt the new skill. Women have more reasons to learn these self defense skills.

Forget Tupperware Parties!

Invite 6 to 8 of your friends for a few hours of fun, education and potentially life- saving instruction. Plan a meal, bbq, snacks, maybe some dessert! Be prepared for a unique self defense experience! What has made SAFE International so popular is their unique method of teaching with humour and sharing of anecdotes. Get to experience their simulated attacks in scenario specific situations such as at the front door, the kitchen, the car, etc.

Women are much more willing to share their stories and feelings of fear since they don’t have the same pressure on them to be "the man". Chris Roberts has been both thankful and humbled by what thousands of women have told him. The women’s self defense course has really been structured around all the stories women have shared with the SAFE instructors.

Years ago Chris was invited to be the keynote speaker at the Annual Ontario Block Parents Convention. There were about 100 adults in attendance comprising of about 75 women. There were also about 25 police officers. Chris began his talk on how to avoid and handle potentially dangerous situations such as being followed, elevator safety, parking lots, distraction techniques, etc and all the women were laughing while about 20 male police officers sat there with their arms crossed staring at him seriously. Chris was thinking this might not be going so well even though all the women were laughing. At this point, the senior police officer in the group stood up and asked if he could say something. At this moment Chris was thinking "Well, this is probably the end of my business and he is going to tell me not to make a joke out of personal safety". The police officer told the group of 100 or so that this was the best approach to personal safety he had ever seen! He said that as a police officer he was sitting listening to the information and not focusing on the humour. He agreed that with the majority of the population the humour was a unique way to get the message across.

SAFE International clients include mothers, fathers, daughters, police officers, seniors, and people with disabilities. To contact SAFE International and Chris Roberts to schedule your Ottawa women’s self defense party, you can visit their main site at www.safeinternational.biz

You can also view Chris’ self defense blog at www.selfdefensecanada.info
You can also reach Chris Roberts toll free at 1-800-465-5972 or by email at chrisroberts@safeinternational.biz

Contact :
Chris Roberts
SAFE International™
15535 Cooper Rd.
Lunenburg, ON
Canada K0C 1R0
1 800 465-5972

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Spring 2011 Food Safety Certification Courses at Harrisburg University

Harrisburg University of Science and Technology in Pennsylvania will offer several Food Safety Certification training courses at its location at 326 Market Street in Harrisburg during Spring and Summer 2011.

Harrisburg, PA, February 15, 2011 -- Harrisburg University of Science and Technology in Pennsylvania will offer several Food Safety Certification training courses at its location at 326 Market Street in Harrisburg during Spring and Summer 2011. The courses include Food Safety Fundamentals, HACCP Manager Certification, and Implementing SQF Systems Training. The courses are offered in partnership with NSF International, industry experts in public health & safety standards, and recipient of the 2010 Training Center of the Year Award from SQFI.

Food Safety Fundamentals
More than ever before, consumers, regulators and retailers have higher expectations for companies whose products are part of the food supply. From small growers to large production operations, the use of high standards of safety and quality is critical for doing business. This introductory course in food safety provides instruction in pre-requisite programs including GMPs, risk analysis as well as basic HACCP principles for food processing plants. Taught by industry experts with over 20 years of experience in food processing, course participants will engage in interactive exercises and will walk away with an understanding of the a range of critical topics.

Course runs from 8:30 am - 5:00 pm. Registration fee of $300 includes course manual, certificate of completion, lunch and refreshments.Discounted rate available for government employees, academics and sanitarians.

Course Objectives:
- US Regulatory Agencies
- Employee Health and Personal Hygiene
- Facilities Design and Construction
- Facilities Design and Construction
- Receiving, Warehousing and Transportation
- Food Allergens and GMOs
- Product Traceability and Recall
- Food Defense and Business Continuity
- Hazards and Sources of Contamination
- Introduction to HACCP

This 1-day course has been scheduled for the following date: Wednesday, June 8, 2011

HACCP Manager Certification
The Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) system is a process control that identifies where hazards might occur in the food production process and puts into place stringent actions to prevent the hazards from occurring. By strictly monitoring and controlling each step of the process, there is less chance for hazards to occur. HACCP is important because it is a preventative measure, rather than a solution for addressing contaminations after they are found. By controlling major food risks, such as microbiological, chemical and physical contaminants, the industry can better assure consumers that its products are as safe as good science and technology allows.

This hands-on course provides instruction in the seven principles HACCP, how they relate to prerequisite programs, how to write HACCP plans and implement HACCP in food processing, distribution and preparation environments. This HACCP Manager course is a “moderate level” training and is accredited by the International HACCP Alliance. As a mixture of lecture and hands-on learning, the course allows for interaction among class members and individualized feedback. During the course, participants will write an actual HACCP plan for a product or process of their choice. The course concludes with the HACCP Certification Examination administered late on the second day.

Course runs from 8:30 am – 5:00 pm. Registration fee of $695 includes all materials, books, NSF exam, certificates, lunch and refreshments. Discounted rate available for government employees, academics and sanitarians.

Course Objectives:
• Overview of HACCP, Prerequisite Programs, Cross Contamination, Microbiology, Food Safety Management Skills
• The Five Preliminary Steps, Conducting the Hazard Analysis, Identify the Critical Control Points
• Critical Limits, Monitoring, Corrective Actions
• Verification and Recordkeeping, HACCP Regulatory Processes
• HACCP Workshop-practical application, write HACCP Plans
• Exam Review

Participants receive the NSF HACCP Manager Training Manual, which includes the Codex Alimentarius, as well as a Certificate of Completion at the end of the class. Participants who pass the NSF HACCP Manager Exam will also receive an NSF HACCP Manager Credential.

This 2-day course has been scheduled for the following dates:
Wednesday – Thursday, March 2 – 3, 2011 - 8:30 am – 5:00 pm
Thursday- Friday, June 9 – 10, 2011 - 8:30 am – 5:00 pm
Wednesday – Thursday, Sept 28 – 29, 2011 - 8:30 am – 5:00 pm

Implementing SQF Systems
The SQF (Safe Quality Food) Program is a leading, global food safety and quality certification program and management system, designed to meet the needs of buyers and suppliers worldwide. SQF systems are used to ensure that a supplier's food safety and quality management system complies with international and domestic food safety regulations. This two-day training will cover the system developed by the SQF Institute, the most globally recognized and trusted food safety and quality certification program.

This course is designed to provide participants with detailed knowledge and understanding of the concepts in Safe Quality Foods (SQF) protocols and the SQF 2000 Code. The first part of this two-day course is a general overview of the core SQF requirements, followed by a detailed overview of the SQF-2000 Code. A prerequisite for the offered SQF course is completion of general HACCP training. You can take our HACCP course to qualify for enrollment. The course provides preparation for the SQFI certification exam, which interested candidates can pursue on their own after the training, online through the Safe Quality Foods Institute.

Course runs from 8:30 am – 5:00 pm at 326 Market Street, Harrisburg PA. Registration fee of $600 includes training materials, SQFI manual, completion certificate, lunch and refreshments.

Course Objectives:
• Develop an understanding of the need to improve food safety and quality and to develop a common understanding of the application of the requirements described in the SQF Codes.
• Provide a sound basis to enable effective implementation of quality systems to meet SQF Code requirements.

SQF Core Requirements (First Day)
• Quality, Customers and the Cost of Quality
• The SQF Codes, Food Sector Categories, SQF Vocabulary, Use of the SQF Logo, SQF Practitioner/Consultant Implementing & Maintaining SQF Systems
• Auditing & Certification of SQF Systems – A Supplier Overview

SQF-2000 (Second Day)
• Trainees will be guided through each element of the SQF 2000 Code so they can understand the requirements needed to gain SQF 2000 Certification. Although all three levels will be addressed, an emphasis will be placed on Level 3

This 2-day course has been scheduled for the following dates:
Wednesday – Thursday, March 30 – 31, 2011 - 8:30 am – 5:00 pm
Tuesday – Wednesday, June 28 – 29, 2011 - 8:30 am – 5:00 pm
Wednesday – Thursday, Oct 26 – 27, 2011 - 8:30 am – 5:00 pm

Course Instructor:
Harry Grenawitzke, a Registered Sanitarian who is a former President of the National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) and the American Academy of Sanitarians (AAS). He served previously as the NSF Vice President, Regulatory Affairs, and has over 39 years of experience in Environmental Health in both the public (20 years) and private sectors. In addition to Plan Review and leading food safety courses, he consults with a number of corporations and the US Department of Justice.

About NSF International
NSF International, a not-for-profit, non-governmental organization, is the leading global provider of public health and safety risk management solutions in the areas of food, water, indoor air and the environment. NSF provides product certification and safety audits for the food and water industries, as well as management systems registrations delivered through NSF International Strategic Registrations, Ltd. and education through the NSF Training and Education department. NSF International is the recipient of the 2010 Training Center of the Year Award from SQFI. Learn more about NSF International online at http://www.nsf.org

Harrisburg University is located at 326 Market Street in Harrisburg. The Harrisburg Parking Authority operates a garage accessible via Fourth Street. Cost for parking in the garage is $5.00 for 0-2 hours. Kiosk for parking accepts cash only. More information on parking rates and directions to the University are found online at http://www.harrisburgu.net/campuslife/directions.php#parking

Founded in 2001 to address Central Pennsylvania’s need for increased opportunities for study leading to careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields, Harrisburg University is an innovative and ambitious private institution that produces graduates who provide increased competence and capacity in science and technology disciplines to Pennsylvania and the nation. Harrisburg University ensures institutional access for underrepresented students and links learning and research to practical outcomes. As a private University serving the public good, Harrisburg University remains the only STEM-focused comprehensive university located between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.

For more information on the University's demand-driven undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs in applied science and technology fields, call 717.901.5146 or email Connect@HarrisburgU.edu.

Contact;
Steven Infanti
Harrisburg University Communications & Marketing
326 Market Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101
717.901.5146