AAA support Health care Benefits of Impact investing

A new form of impact investing could lead to a rise in life expectancy by helping to deal with the causes of health problems, according to analysts and AAA.

Boston, MA, May 05, 2012 - A new form of impact investing could lead to a rise in life expectancy by helping to deal with the causes of health problems, according to analysts and Alternative Asset Analysis (AAA).

A new white paper from researchers at UC Berkeley argues that Health impact Bonds and similar impact investing routes can help save lives in developing countries and at home. The paper, that was also put together with help from Collective Health, suggested that these bonds help to address the underlying social problems that cause people to make unhealthy choices that can affect their long-term health.

The researchers’ white paper follows claims that the majority of increase life expectancy in the US has come as a result of lifestyle, social health care, cleanliness and hygiene, rather than from better care once ill.

It is, then, advantageous to try to deal with the root cause of ill health rather than simply ploughing money into more and more care once people have already become ill.

AAA’s analysis partner, Anthony Johnson, explained that impact investing can help in some very straightforward ways. “Money invested into socially and environmentally responsible projects can go towards anything from building clean water wells in Africa to providing education on healthy eating seminars in inner-city America.

“Either way, it’s a lot more ethical than investing in stocks and shares,” added Johnson.

Health Impact bonds can help projects such as the efforts to cut asthma in Fresno, California, through a simple education process, helping people remove mold from their homes and get new air filters and soft furnishings.

AAA claims that impact investing has brought benefits to many areas of the world and that investing in sustainable forestry projects can help communities in developing countries to safeguard their forestry industry for generations to come. “Investing in projects such as the Health Impact Bonds and Greenwood Management’s plantation schemes in Brazil can ensure investments make a real difference,” added Johnson.

Contact:

Anthony Johnson

Alternative Asset Analysis

71 Commercial St

Boston, MA 02109-1320

617-939-9596

info@alternativeassetanalysis.com

http://www.alternativeassetanalysis.com

Living at Your Peak Promises Unparalleled Access to Leading Health, Fitness and Longevity Experts

Exclusive Vail, Colo., health and fitness experience is the nation’s only gathering designed to help health-conscious individuals and influencers learn to live longer and better

Vail, CO, May 05, 2012 - Health enthusiasts from around the country will gather to network with marathon legends, cycling champions, renowned medical researchers and the nation’s leading health and fitness experts at Living at Your Peak (www.livingatyourpeak.org), the Rocky Mountain region’s premier wellness experience. The inaugural summit, to be held September 13-15, 2012, in Vail, Colo., is the nation’s only gathering designed to help health-conscious individuals and influencers discover how to live longer, better and impact the wellbeing of their world.

“Living at Your Peak is designed to promote life-long health and fitness through customized experiences in an intimate setting,” said Jamie Stone, Living at Your Peak event champion and a board member of the Vail Symposium, a nonprofit organization responsible for Living at Your Peak.“With exclusive access to proven experts and peak performers in the fields of fitness, nutrition, cognitive and emotional health, medicine and cutting-edge research, our guests will gain valuable insight into the changes they can make in their daily lives that will affect their future health.”

Jenna Wolfe, co-anchor of NBC News’ Sunday TODAY show, will emcee the event, which is intended for individuals who are interested in learning how to maximize their health, as well as corporate, non-profit and government leaders. The summit offers guests unparalleled access to accomplished world champions; internationally recognized trainers, coaches, researchers and doctors; top chefs, nutritionists and world-class restaurants; and peer networking opportunities.

Among others, confirmed presenters include:

* Ellen Miller, coach of the U.S. Olympic women’s running team, Mount Everest climber and adventure racer;

* C. Noel Bairey Merz, MD, director of the Women’s Heart Center at Cedars-Sinai, trailblazer and leader in preventive heart health;

* James Hill, MD, executive director of the Colorado Center for Health & Wellness, leading expert and author on nutrition; and

* Scott Small, MD, professor of neurology, Columbia Neuroscience, nationally renowned expert on brain health.

Additional presenters will be announced as the event nears. Visit www.livingatyourpeak.org for details.

Living at Your Peak sessions will offer interactive components to engage guests beyond a traditional presentation environment. Session themes include:

* Health: Guests will better understand their own health through preventive health checks, learn what causes injuries during an interactive session at the nation’s leading orthopedics laboratory and master healthy eating practices with top nutritionists and chefs.

* Fitness: Guests can bike, hike and golf with world-class athletes and discuss the physical and psychological aspects of training with leading fitness experts.

* Longevity: Guests will learn how to extend their physical wellbeing with wellness, cardiac and nutrition experts. They will also discover how to extend their mental acuity as they complete brain challenges and examine meditation’s physiological effects with leading researchers.

Guests will complete a pre-attendance survey to create an individualized agenda and establish physical and mental goals to be addressed through specific programming. A personal concierge will manage guests’ event needs, including session scheduling and weekend activities planning. Follow-up coaching, an interactive online community and a winter series will empower guests to take home their Living at Your Peak experience and positively impact their personal networks.

"We want Colorado to be the healthiest state in the nation because healthy living is a strong driver of economic and tourism well-being," said Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper. "Conferences like the Vail Symposium's Living at Your Peak can move us in that direction through their commitment to physical, intellectual and emotional health and well being."

Living at Your Peak registration is $1,000 until June 30 and $1,200 beginning July 1, and includes priority access to event sessions, event coordination with a personal concierge, exclusive access to VIP events and gourmet meals prepared by Vail’s internationally renowned chefs. Spouse passes are $300 and individual session fees start at $50 per session.

The summit is organized by the Vail Symposium, a grassroots, non-profit organization providing thought-provoking, diverse and affordable educational programs to the Vail Valley community. Event sponsors include Vail Valley Medical Center, HealthONE, the Town of Vail, The Steadman Clinic, Vail Summit Orthopedics, Triumph Development, The Vail Daily, Antlers at Vail, Vitality Center, Udi’s, The Biegler Foundation, Colorado Access and Wendy and Paul Raether.

For more information about Living at Your Peak, please visit www.livingatyourpeak.org.

About Living at Your Peak

Living at Your Peak is a two-and-a-half day summit designed to help individuals learn how to live longer, better and influence positive change in the wellbeing of the world around them. The event is designed to promote lifelong health and fitness through customized experiences in an intimate setting. Program presenters are proven experts and peak performers in the fields of fitness, nutrition, cognitive and emotional wellbeing, preventive medicine and cutting-edge research. Living at Your Peak is organized by the Vail Symposium. For more information, please visit www.livingatyourpeak.org, like us on Facebook at facebook.com/LivingatYourPeak, follow us on twitter at @LivingaturPeak or follow us on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/living-at-your-peak.

About the Vail Symposium

The Vail Symposium is a grassroots, non-profit organization that has been part of the life and history of Vail since 1971. Its mission is to provide educational programs for the Vail Valley community that are thought-provoking, diverse and affordable. A (501)(c)(3) non-profit organization, the Symposium is almost entirely donor-funded. For more information, please visit www.vailsymposium.org.

Contact:

Shannon Fern

Communications Strategy Group

3225 East 2nd Avenue

Denver, CO 80206

303.433.7020

sfern@csg-pr.com

http://www.csg-pr.com

Apex Celebrates 20th Anniversary, Honors 2012 Inspiration Award Recipients

Nonprofit organization serving inner-city, underserved Asian American youth in New York City recognizes individuals for their dedicated commitment to the Asian American community

New York, New York, May 04, 2012 - Apex, a New York City-based non-profit dedicated to promoting the development of inner-city Asian American youth, celebrated six inspirational role models and the organization’s 20th anniversary last night at the Inspiration Awards Gala Dinner. Proceeds from the dinner benefit Apex programs that enable underserved children from Asian American communities in New York City to become well-rounded, productive members of society through programs that meet their academic, social and personal needs.

“In New York City, one in four Asian American youth live in poverty and one out of three do not graduate high school on time or at all. The Inspiration Awards Dinner provides us a chance to call attention to this often overlooked population as well as honor the people who have made contributions to advancing the Asian American community,” said Michael Lee, Executive Director at Apex. “Last night was also significant for the milestone we celebrated – 20 years of serving under-resourced Asian American youth; we are so proud of the thousands of Apex alumni who have gone on to college and achieved success in life.”

Additionally, the organization announced a name change at last night’s event. Moving forward it will be known as Apex for Youth.

“We feel Apex for Youth more clearly states our mission to empower youth by connecting them with positive adult role models,” said Lee.

This year’s six honorees have demonstrated their own commitment to serving the Asian American community. The 2012 Inspiration Award honorees include:

Ben and Emily Huh, Co-founders of Cheezburger Network

In 2007, Ben and Emily Huh started Cheezburger, one of the largest online humor publishers in the world where millions of people come every month to get their 5-minutes of happiness. Cheezburger counts a passionate fan base of 25 million people who upload more than 500,000 pictures and videos as well as view 500 million pages and 110 million videos each month.

Aasif Mandvi, Actor, “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart”

Aasif Mandvi is an Indian-American actor who is currently a correspondent for The Daily Show with Jon Stewart. Aasif’s other television credits include “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” “Sex and the City,” “Sleeper Cell,” “The Sopranos,” and “OZ,” among others. His film credits include “The Proposal,” “Spiderman 2,” “Analyze This,” “It’s Kind of a Funny Story” and M.Night Shyamalan’s “The Last Airbender.” Aasif received the 1999 OBIE award for his critically acclaimed play, “Sakina’s Restaurant,” which was performed and conceived by Aasif as a one man show and inspired his feature film, “Today’s Special,” which he co-wrote and stars.

Chad Troutwine, Co-founder and CEO of Veritas Prep; Producer, “Freakonomics”

Chad Troutwine is a decorated entrepreneur, trained attorney, and education pioneer. He is the co-founder and CEO of Veritas Prep, the largest privately owned GMAT preparation and graduate school admissions consulting company in the world. Chad is also the co-founder of Spectrum Station, one of the Midwest's largest early childhood education centers. Since 2003, Chad has produced ten feature films starring more than a dozen Academy Award winning actors and directors. He is also the co-founder of Freakonomics Media, a digital partnership with author Stephen Dubner and economist Steven Levitt.

Alexander Tsui, DMD, Founder of Apex

Dr. Alexander Tsui served as Founding President of Apex from 1992 through 2007. Along with four others, Alex laid the groundwork to start the organization that would become Apex in 1991. Alex maintains a private practice in New York City with an emphasis on restorative and cosmetic dentistry. His professional career has included teaching positions, extensive continuing education, and published articles. Continuing to dedicate much of his time to the community that he works and lives in, Alex has been recognized over the years for his work by the media and community organizations. He is currently a member of the Multicultural Advisory Committee at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Visiting Faculty at Spear Education, a continuing dental education center.

Gwynne Chow Tuan, Fundraiser

Born in Shanghai, Gwynne moved to Washington, D.C., in 1949 with her family. During her 30-year professional career, she was a development executive for Regional Plan Association, St. Luke’s Roosevelt Hospital Center, Asian American Federation and China Institute in America and the development director for the Committee of 100. Additionally, Gwynne volunteered extensively in the Asian American community through the Charles B. Wang Community Health Center, Renwen Society and helped to raise critical millions that enabled the Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA), a small, grassroots, community museum in Chinatown that tells the vital story of the Chinese diaspora and more than 160-year history of the Chinese in America.

Apex was founded in 1992, and through its various academic and social programs, each year its robust network of volunteers donate more than 6,000 hours of service to reach more than 200 Asian American youth from almost 50 public schools throughout New York City. Now 20 years later, Apex boasts a 99 percent college attendance rate and thousands of youth alumni.

For more information about the Inspiration Awards Gala Dinner or Apex’s work with undeserved Asian American youth, visit www.apex-ny.org.

About Apex for Youth

Founded in 1992, Apex for Youth is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit that seeks to empower youth to be well-rounded, productive members of society by recruiting professionals to volunteer as their mentors and teachers. Through year-round one-on-one mentoring, affordable test preparation classes and culturally sensitive afterschool programming that provides sustained engagement for students from fourth to twelfth grade, Apex connects youth with positive role models who inspire them to create and achieve their goals. In the past two decades, through Apex, thousands of volunteers have served thousands of youth, many returning to volunteer themselves. For more information visit www.apex-ny.org.

Contact:

Lindsey Mikal

Communications Strategy Group

3225 East 2nd Avenue

Denver, CO 80206

(303) 433-7020

lmikal@csg-pr.com

http://www.csg-pr.com

Sharon Lechter to serve as Keynote Speaker for Arizona Society of Certified Public Accountants (ASCPA) Annual Meeting at the Arizona Biltmore

Internationally acclaimed co-author of Rich Dad Poor Dad, member of the President's Advisory Council on Financial Literacy and a current national spokesperson for the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)

Scottsdale, AZ, May 04, 2012 - Internationally acclaimed co-author of Rich Dad Poor Dad, member of the President's Advisory Council on Financial Literacy and a current national spokesperson for the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), Sharon Lechter, will serve as keynote speaker at the ASCPA Annual Meeting presented at the Arizona Biltmore on May 22, 2012.

Registration for the event begins at 11:00 a.m. The program runs from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Fees are $65 for members, $75 for non-members. To register for the event or for more information, visit www.ascpa.com.

During the meeting, Lechter will speak to the audience about financial literacy. The meeting will also include an awards presentation honoring the newest Life Member, Randy Roberts, CPA, state of Arizona Auditor General’s Office; Excellence in Teaching Award recipient, Harriet Maccracken, ASU; and the Elijah Watt Sells Award recipient, Trevor Goss, Ernst & Young. Special thanks to event Gold Sponsor, ADP and Silver Sponsors CAMICO, Robert Half and SCF Arizona.

Cindie Hubiak, CPA and President & CEO of the Arizona Society of CPAs noted, “Financial literacy benefits everyone. As CPAs, we know the importance of CPAs educating others about budgeting and saving money. CPAs recognize their role and volunteer their expertise in the community. Sharon’s leadership is key. We appreciate her membership in the ASCPA and value her role as a national financial literacy leader.”

"I am thrilled to participate. There is no greater honor than that bestowed by your peers. The Arizona Society of CPAs is a fabulous organization that provides leadership and cutting edge training to its membership,” said Lechter.

The ASCPA is the leading professional association for CPAs in Arizona. Membership includes more than 6,000 CPAs and business professionals, including CPAs in business and industry, public practice, government, nonprofit and education. The mission of the Society is to enhance the success of members and lead the profession.

For information, contact:

Traci Baker Thompson

Senior Manager of Member Activities

Arizona Society of CPAs

4801 E. Washington St., Suite 225-B

Phoenix, AZ 85034

602-324-4745

http://www.ascpa.com

Best selling author, entrepreneur, international speaker, CPA, and philanthropist, Sharon Lechter passionately promotes financial education and literacy for families. A national spokesperson for the AICPA, she proudly served as a member of the first President's Advisory Council on Financial Literacy. Founder of Pay Your Family First and YOUTHpreneur, Lechter continues to innovate tools and resources to teach financial empowerment. Lechter has received the coveted Mom’s Choice Awards® for her board game, ThriveTime for Teens, and for the Youthpreneur BIZkit. Most recently, she released Three Feet from Gold and Outwitting the Devil in cooperation with the Napoleon Hill Foundation. Co-author of the international best selling book, Rich Dad Poor Dad, Lechter continues to travel the globe inspiring others to achieve prosperity.

Contact:

Scott Kelly

Black Dog Promotions

9920 S. Rural Rd., Ste 108

Tempe, AZ 85284

480-206-3435

scott@blackdogpromotions.com

http://www.blackdogpromotions.com

The Country First High End Tour Operator to Promote authenticity coupled with Luxury in Vietnam

Vietnam is renowned for being a backpacker destination, a place for those on a budget to get maximum beauty for their buck.

Ba Dinh Dist, Hanoi, May 04, 2012 - Vietnam is renowned for being a backpacker destination (www.luxurytravelvietnam.com ), a place for those on a budget to get maximum beauty for their buck. But the country has quickly established a contemporary luxury sector that offers the best of Vietnam’s culture and an incredibly high-end experience, boasting gourmet restaurant and luxury resorts.

Vietnam offers a magical mix of tropical beaches, post-colonial charm, a string of world heritage sites, stunning inland scenery, world-renowned cuisine and a home-grown flair for impeccable hospitality.

With new luxury hotels and worlds class golf courses luxury trains, exclusive cruises and upscale private tours spanning the length of the country, Vietnam is fast emerging as the world’s latest luxury destination.

“Vietnam has many attractions, including beautiful resorts, spas, majestic scenery, a rich traditional culture, easy going and welcoming locals, great cuisine and an improving tourist infrastructure. This makes Vietnam a more attractive destination for travelers seeking the best value for their money.”, say Pham Ha, founder and CEO of Luxury Travel Ltd. “Today upscale tours must offer “around off the beaten path” experiences, efficiency, seamless travel, value for money and a return on personal values. It is these qualities that lead many luxury travelers to opt for short trips, which offer a slice of local culture, a splash of adventure, and authentic experiences.”

Luxury Travel Ltd (www.luxurytravelvietnam.com) is Vietnam’s first luxury tour operator, a privately-owned Vietnamese company with vast local knowledge, offering local insight and a true flavor of Vietnam’s culture.

Offering luxury privately guided and fully bespoke holidays through its knowledgeable and passionate tour guides and local travel experts, the company provides travel agents with training, sales support, selling points, top sales tips as well as hosting regular educational FAM trips.

Luxury travelers can now enjoy VIP arrival services at the country’s main airports as well as choose from a large and growing selection of luxury hotels & resorts, whilst still enjoying a program that gets them off the tourist trail and into the real Vietnam.

“Discerning travelers look for an authentic luxury travel experience and focus on the whole experience and tend to be cash-rich and time-poor, and are happy to pay luxury travel advisors to take the time putting travel experiences together for them – it’s authenticity coupled with luxury,” Ha adds.

Visit www.luxurytravelvietnam.com

Contact:

David Nguyen

Luxury Travel Ltd

05 Nguyen Truong To Str.,

Ba Dinh Dist, Hanoi 84444

Vietnam

84439274120

marketing@luxurytravelvietnam.com

http://www.LuxuryTravelVietnam.com

Shepherd Controls becomes latest Dunkermotor Motion control channel partner

Established industrial automation distributor augments Dunkermotor linear motors with complete line of intelligent servo motors, brushed DC motors and gearmotor solutions for southwestern U.S. machinery OEMs.

Elgin, IL, May 03, 2012 - Texas-based automation and motion controls distributor, Shepherd Controls & Associates has expanded beyond the Dunkermotor linear motor line to become a full line authorized channel partner for the Dunkermotor fractional horsepower brushed and brushless DC motors and intelligent servo motors. With offices located in the Dallas - Ft. Worth, Houston and El Paso areas Shepherd Controls covers Texas, including the maquiladoras, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Arkansas. 

"Shepherd Controls is very excited about joining forces with Dunkermotor to provide quality automation solutions to our marketing area" said Bill Benko, partner in Shepherd Controls. "As a value-added distributor, Shepherd Controls is dedicated to providing not only high-quality service, but also the finest products in the automation industry to our customers."

Founded in 1985, Shepherd Controls & Associates covers the southwestern market with nine strategically located sales engineers.

"Shepherd's sales engineers undergo rigorous training on all products they represent, and they are qualified to assist customers in choosing cost-effective solutions that meet their application needs," said Don Gallaway, Dunkermotor central regional sales manager. "In addition, our Dunkermotor TechCenter stands ready to work with the Shepherd team on particularly challenging applications."

About Dunkermotor:

Headquartered in Elgin, Illinois, Dunkermotor is the North American sales, technical support and logistics subsidiary of Dunkermotoren GmbH, for 60 years the global quality and value leader in customized, configurable sole-source fractional horsepower motion control solutions composed of BLDC, PMDC and AC electric motors, gearmotors, controls, encoders and brakes, as well as linear motion solutions. With headquarters in the Black Forest in Bonndorf, Germany and production and/or logistics facilities in Europe, Asia and the U.S., Dunkermotoren employs 1000 globally and produced over 3.4 million motors in 2011 for the factory and commercial automation, specialty machinery, medical, solar power, packaging, semiconductor, and mass transportation industries.

Contact:

John Morehead

Dunkermotoren USA, Inc.

2511 Technology Drive, Suite 105

Elgin, IL 60124

224-293-1300

john.morehead@dunkermotoren.com

http://www.dunkermotoren.com

Kasasa Changes The Face of Local Banking in Fairmont

Profinium Financial Introduces Kasasa, a Striking Alternative to the Megabank Rollercoaster

Fairmont, MN, May 03, 2012 - Profinium Financial asks consumers, “Do you Kasasa?” as it becomes the next financial institution in Minnesota to launch the country’s most innovative financial products.

Kasasa® is a new brand of free checking and savings accounts that pays consumers to use their account with what interests them most—high interest or automatic savings. These accounts, combined with the personal service that only community financial institutions can deliver, are offering residents a better checking account option than the megabank experience.

“Consumers deserve to wake up to happier days of banking and leave behind the nightmare of megabank fees and mistreatment. We are pleased to be the first in Truman to offer these unique products,” said Marques Doppler, CEO at Profinium Financial “Kasasa delivers what research shows people really want but believe they can’t have—great financial products with the personal service of a community based financial institution.”

Profinium Financial is offering two Kasasa financial products, Kasasa Cash? and Kasasa Saver?. All Kasasa products are free, reward-based accounts, with no minimum balance to earn the rewards, no monthly service fee, free online banking and nationwide ATM fee refunds.

Kasasa Cash - A free checking account that rewards consumers with high interest for every month they qualify.

Kasasa Saver - A free, high interest saver account linked to a Kasasa Cash checking account. The interest and ATM fee refunds earned in the Kasasa Cash are automatically deposited into the Kasasa Saver account when the account holder qualifies. The balance in the Kasasa Saver account also earns a high rate of interest.

To receive the Kasasa account benefits, each monthly qualification cycle account holders are asked to do a few simple things like, receive an eStatement, use a debit card a minimum number of times, and have an electronic transaction (such as direct deposit) post to and clear their account. If an account holder does not meet the qualifications in a given month, Profinium Financial will alert the individual, who will be eligible the following month for the benefits.

“Extensive research has shown us that consumers would prefer to do business with community financial institutions, but feel they would lose access to products,” continued Doppler “Kasasa is opening people’s eyes to a new banking model where no sacrifices are necessary. It’s a win-win because account holders get innovative products and personalized service.”

In 2009, Kasasa was piloted in six other markets across the U.S. In just the first two months of offering Kasasa, participating community financial institutions reported growth rates upwards of 150% on new account openings and 372% in deposits at institutions focused on deposit growth.

Kasasa is being introduced with an aggressive, highly engaging marketing campaign. It comes to life through a fresh mix of eye-popping advertising, the likes of which exceed the typical megabank’s high-budget programs. The ads feature America’s top slam poets www.kasasa.com/news-and-media/advertising riffing lyrical threads around the theme of “Do you Kasasa?”

Kasasa is distributed to Profinium Financial from BancVue, the leading provider of innovative products, dynamic marketing, and data-driven consulting solutions to community financial institutions nationwide to help them win the war against the megabanks.

For more information on Kasasa accounts, consumers can visit www.profinium.com or www.kasasa.com/profiniumfinancial.

Do you Kasasa?

Kasasa® is the first national brand of the most innovative checking accounts available today. The accounts, offered exclusively by the finest community financial institutions, are designed to be the first and only accounts that actually take an interest in their account holders by rewarding them to use their account with what interests them most—high interest, cash back, automatic savings, money to donate to charity or iTunes® or Amazon.com downloads. Kasasa, developed and distributed by BancVue, marries innovative banking products with the personal touch of community financial institutions. For more information, visit www.kasasa.com.

Contact:

Katie Weathers

CSG PR

3225 East 2nd Avenue

Denver, CO 80206

(404) 791-8245

kweathers@csg-pr.com

http://www.csg-pr.com

FRA welcomes Forestry Investment Program positivity

Ghana, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Burkino Faso have all given insights into their intended responses to the Forest Investment Program (FIP), claims FRA.

Bainbridge Island, WA, May 03, 2012 - Ghana, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Burkino Faso have all given insights into their intended responses to the Forest Investment Program (FIP), claims Forestry Research Associated (FRA).

The research and analysis group said that reports from allafrica.com show that representatives from each of the three African nations have pledged to continue their support for the REDD+ scheme in exchange for funding under the FIP.

Speaking at the annual FIP pilot scheme meeting in Brazil, Burkino Faso’s officials said that the country maintains a strong political affiliation and support to reduce emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD+). The country also pledged to improve synergies between the REDD+ work and other industries, such as agriculture and environment. It wants to invest in private sector forestry.

Meanwhile, both Ghana and Burkino Faso mentioned that they were finding management of stakeholders' expectation a challenge.

The DRC said that it has made some headway in keeping track of investments under the scheme, through the launch of an online National REDD+ Projects register, which monitors the projects that are receiving the funding. However, it added that the private sector is still sceptical due to high taxes and complexities.

FRA’s analysis partner, Peter Collins, said, “We support the REDD+ program and are pleased to see that developing nations are still being rewarded for protecting their forestry industries for generations to come.”

FRA believes that schemes like the FIP and carbon trading programs help communities living in developing nations to realize and benefit from the value of standing forests. “This helps to reduce the reliance on non-sustainable forestry practices and underlines the benefits of managed forestry,” added Mr Collins.

Investors all over the world can do their bit to promote sustainable forestry and managed forestry by investing in plantation projects like those run by Greenwood Management in Brazil.

Contact:

Peter Collins

Forestry Research Associates

620 Vineyard Lane

Bainbridge Island, WA 98110

(206) 316 8394

info@forestry-research.com

http://www.forestry-research.com

Kasasa Changes The Face of Local Banking in Macon

BankFirst Financial Introduces Kasasa, a Striking Alternative to the Mega Bank Rollercoaster

Macon, Mississippi, May 03, 2012 - BankFirst Financial asks consumers, “Do you Kasasa?” as it becomes the first financial institution in Mississippi to launch the country’s most innovative financial products.

Kasasa® is a new brand of free checking and savings accounts that rewards consumers for using their account with what interests them most—high interest, cash back, automatic savings, money to donate to charity or digital downloads from iTunes® or Amazon.com. These accounts, combined with the personal service that only community financial institutions can deliver, are offering residents a better checking account option than the megabank experience.

“Consumers deserve to wake up to happier days of banking and leave behind the nightmare of megabank fees and mistreatment. We are pleased to be the first in Columbus to offer these unique products” said Gray Flora, EVP of BankFirst Financial Services. “Kasasa delivers what research shows people really want but believe they can’t have—great financial products with the personal service of a community based financial institution.”

BankFirst Financial is offering Three Kasasa financial products, including Kasasa Cash™, Kasasa Saver™ and Kasasa Tunes™. All Kasasa products are free, reward-based accounts, with no minimum balance to get the rewards, no monthly service fee, online banking and nationwide ATM fee refunds.

Kasasa Cash™- A free checking account that yields high interest for every month the account holder qualifies.

Kasasa Saver™- A free, high interest saver account linked to a Kasasa Cash checking account. The interest and ATM fee refunds earned in the Kasasa Cash are automatically deposited into the Kasasa Saver account when the account holders qualify. The balance in the Kasasa Saver account also earns a high rate of interest.

Kasasa Tunes™- A checking account that rewards consumers with digital downloads from iTunes® Amazon or Amazon.com when they qualify.

To receive the Kasasa account benefits, each monthly qualification cycle account holders are asked to do a few simple things (like, receive a monthly eStatement, use a debit card a minimum number of times, and have an electronic transaction such as direct deposit or ACH) post and clear their account. If an account holder does not meet the qualifications in a given month, BankFirst Financial will alert the individual, who will be eligible the following month for the benefits.

“Extensive research has shown us that consumers would prefer to do business with community financial institutions, but feel they would lose access to products,” continued Gray Flora. “Kasasa is opening people’s eyes to a new banking model where no sacrifices are necessary. It’s a win-win because account holders are rewarded with innovative products and personalized service.”

In 2009, Kasasa was piloted in six other markets across the U.S. In just the first two months of offering Kasasa, participating community financial institutions reported growth rates upwards of 150% on new account openings and 372% in deposits at institutions focused on deposit growth.

Kasasa is being introduced with an aggressive, highly engaging marketing campaign. It comes to life through a fresh mix of eye-popping advertising, the likes of which exceed the typical megabank’s high-budget programs. The ads feature America’s top slam poets www.kasasa.com/news-and-media/advertising riffing lyrical threads around the theme of “Do you Kasasa?”

Kasasa is distributed to BankFirst Financial from BancVue, the leading provider of innovative products, dynamic marketing, and data-driven consulting solutions to community financial institutions nationwide to help them win the war against the megabanks.

For more information on Kasasa accounts, consumers can visit www.bankfirstfs.com or www.kasasa.com/BankFirstFS.

Do you Kasasa?

Kasasa® is the first national brand of the most innovative checking accounts available today. The accounts, offered exclusively by the finest community financial institutions, are designed to be the first and only accounts that actually take an interest in their account holders by rewarding them for ussing their account with what interests them most—high interest, cash back, automatic savings, money to donate to charity or iTunes® or Amazon.com downloads. Kasasa, developed and distributed by BancVue, marries innovative banking products with the personal touch of community financial institutions. For more information, visit www.kasasa.com.

Contact:

Katie Weathers

CSG PR

3225 East 2nd Avenue

Denver, CO 80206

(404) 791-8245

kweathers@csg-pr.com

http://www.csg-pr.com

Luxury Travel to Surprise Travelers by Exotic Vietnam Three Week Tour

Luxury Travel Ltd (www.luxurytravelvietnam.com) to launch an exciting Vietnam tour in three weeks to beautiful places of Hanoi – Sapa Topas Ecolodge – Bai Tu Long Bay –Cat Ba Island – Hai Phong – Thai Binh – Ninh Binh – Hue Pilgrimage Village- Hoi An – Dalat – Nam Cat Tien – HCM City.

Hanoi, Vietnam, May 02, 2012 - Luxury Travel Ltd (www.luxurytravelvietnam.com) to launch an exciting Vietnam tour in three weeks to beautiful places of Hanoi – Sapa Topas Ecolodge – Bai Tu Long Bay –Cat Ba Island – Hai Phong – Thai Binh – Ninh Binh – Hue Pilgrimage Village- Hoi An – Dalat – Nam Cat Tien – HCM City.

Vietnam is an exotic destination, appeals with authentic interactions in an unspoilt environment for discerning travelers who want “off the beaten path” experiences, efficiency, seamless travel, value for money and a return on personal values. It is these qualities that lead many to opt for longer trips to exotic places, which offer a slice of local culture, a splash of adventure, and authentic experiences.

This tour absolutement is for people who seek personal challenges and new experiences, and who want to meet real people in a beautiful and unique environment.

In North Vietnam, traveler’s base will be Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi. Visit Duong Lam ancient village, is a purely agricultural village of the Northern Red River Delta.

Take an overnight train to Sapa near the Chinese border. You’ll put on their walking shoes for a hike through lush valleys and rice fields before an overnight stay in an eco-lodge on the foot of Fansipan Mountain.

“You will continue your trip with a relaxing cruise on a deluxe junk in gorgeous Halong Bay, a perfect conclusion to an unforgettable journey. You will discover Bai Tu Long Bay and its remote limestone islands, many of which feature dramatic sea caves and sheltered, pristine beaches that can only be reached by kayak” said Hung Nguyen, sales and marketing manager

Next, traveler will head to Central Vietnam to the old imperial capital, Hue and the UNESCO World Heritage town of Hoi An, where traveler will whet your appetite with a cooking class and fishing with the locals. You will also be able to indulge in stopping off at local villages and cycling quiet back roads.

Fly Danang to French Hill Resort Dalat and travelers drive down to HCM City former Saigon. Travelers will discover Nam Cat Tien National Park and the National Biosphere, as they encounter wildlife in both Nam Cat Tien and Con Gio.

“This exciting three week trip allows you to discover the exotic places of the country, from North to South Vietnam, and stay in new and trendy hotels and resorts. Trek and cycle through ethnic minority villages in Vietnam’s remote northern highlands. Sea kayak among towering limestone karsts and explore hidden lagoons in magical Halong Bay and off the beaten track Bai Tu Long Bay, farming and Fishing in Hoian, boat trip Cu Lao Cham island, animal watching in Nam Cat Tien are on this tour. Luxuriate in diverse lodgings. This trip emphasizes the scenic and natural beauty of Vietnam, minimizing your time in big cities, yet balancing authenticity with luxury accommodations and service.” Said Pham Ha, Founder and CEO of Luxury Travel Ltd.

Luxury Travel Ltd (www.luxurytravelvietnam.com) is a long established specialist in luxury privately guided and fully bespoke holidays in Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar and Thailand. Luxury Travel is excellent in designing tailor-made tours and providing unique travel experiences to fulfill the most sophisticated traveler’s expectations. Luxury Travel Ltd won numerous travel awards for excellent performance including the most recent award: Best Luxury Tour Operator.

For booking, visit http://www.luxurytravelvietnam.com/EN/Vietnam_tours/Culturetours/Exotic_Vietnam_in_3_weeks.htm

Contact:

David Nguyen

Luxury Travel Ltd

05 Nguyen Truong To Str.,

Ba Dinh Dist, Hanoi 84444

Vietnam

84439274120

marketing@luxurytravelvietnam.com

http://www.LuxuryTravelVietnam.com

FRA welcomes Timber investment article from Pictet-Timber head

FRA is welcoming an article by Pictet-Timber fund co-manager Gabriel Micheli in Investment Week, giving tips to anyone considering investing in timber.

Bainbridge Island, WA, May 02, 2012 - Forestry Research Associates (FRA) is welcoming an article by Pictet-Timber fund co-manager Gabriel Micheli in Investment Week, giving tips to anyone considering investing in timber.

Mr Micheli is keen to point out the potential returns that can come about as a result of opting for timber investments, which will be underpinned by real growing demand for timber products in emerging economies such as China and India.

He said that wise investors are “waking up” to the environmental “megatrends” in the market. These include the realisation that growing forests can provide communities with income as they provide potential for carbon trading arrangements. As a result of these arrangements, developing countries can make money from developed nations through carbon trading. This is possible because trees absorb huge amounts of carbon dioxide from the air and therefore provide one of the most cost-effective means of reducing carbon emissions.

Mr Micheli added that investors are regularly seeing their returns from timber investment exceeding returns on stocks and shares investments. He points out that between 1990 and 2011 the NCREIF Timberland index returned 10.7 per cent each year. He claims that this shows that timber has a “key role” to play in any portfolio that is diversified against risk.

He claims that the demand for timber is coming from the nations that are desperate to get their hands on raw materials to continue their housing and infrastructure developments. At the same time, supply is not keeping up with the pace, which will drive prices up.

“Along with Mr Micheli, we are confident that timber prices will rise along with demand in the coming few years,” stated Peter Collins, the analysis partner at FRA, a research and analysis consultancy specialising in forestry investment.

He added, “Investing in sustainable timber growth, through firms such as Greenwood Management and Pictet-timber fund can provide careful investors with the chance to make a health return form an ethical investment –something that is not that easy to come by.”

Contact:

Peter Collins

Forestry Research Associates

620 Vineyard Lane

Bainbridge Island, WA 98110

(206) 316 8394

info@forestry-research.com

http://www.forestry-research.com

ABA Basketball Tryouts for Palmetto State Young Rizers

The Palmetto State Young Rizers are Looking for Ballers

Columbia, SC, May 02, 2012 - The Palmetto State Young Rizers announced today that they are having their first ever ABA Basketball tryouts on June 30th- July 1st and additional tryouts on July 28-30th. The Palmetto State Young Rizers is a professional ABA Basketball Team that is seeking hot new talent. Tryouts are being held at: 920 Beatty Road Columbia SC 29210 (Denny Terrace) we will start at 8:00AM- 11:00AM July 1st 1:00- 4:00PM. There is a sign-up fee of $100.00 for early entree $125.00 at the door, money orders or checks should be made out to John Devin Lee or Nikia Knox-Lee (Cash at the door) Payments can also be mailed to: 630 Hempstead ct Virginia Beach VA 23451.

Palmetto State Young Rizers tryouts are for male basketball players with college experience or above or equivalent and does not conflict with remaining college eligibility a player wants to utilize. At each ABA tryout players will be tested and drilled on their skills, professionalism and experience in playing basketball. Playing for the Palmetto State Young Rizers can become the best way to compete at a high level during spring into summer, stay in shape, advance your skills and increase your professional possibilities with a professional minor league basketball team. Players play in the ABA for exposure, video, stats and getting in shape.

The Palmetto State Young Rizers are a newly formed ABA expansion team straight from the heart of Columbia, South Carolina. The team is looking for basketball players to fill out their roster as they make their move to a new season. "We need a whole squad and that includes everything from Centers to Point Guards." replied team owner Devin Lee. Columbia is a new market with incredible benefits, fans from all across the state will be watching out for the "Palmetto State Young Rizers."

To sign up for tryouts or for more information about The Palmetto State Young Rizers please contact CEO John Devin Lee or Nikia Knox-Lee or at: pstateyrizers ( @ ) gmail dot com dot Slots will be filling up fast so you don't want to miss out of this opportunity of a lifetime dot Prospective players will be provided with tryout date information and player details dot Come Join this new Basketball Revolution and be a part of history, let's see if you have what it takes to play like a pro dot

Contact:

John Lee, co-owner

Pstateyrizers@gmail.com

757 589 0467

Nikia Knox-Lee

757 589 0776

About ABA Basketball:

The original ABA was founded in 1967, competing with the well-established National Basketball Association, until the ABA-NBA merger in 1976. According to The NBA Encyclopedia, its long-term goal was to force a merger with the more established league. ABA officials told potential owners that they could get an ABA team for half of what it cost to get an NBA expansion team at the time. When the merger occurred, ABA officials said, their investment would more than double. Now the ABA has official basketball teams throughout the nation and is a commonly recognizable brand.

Contact:

Darnell Clark

Image Makers Media Group, LLC

646 Antone Street

Atlanta, GA 30318

412-353-9240

DClark@imagemakersmedia.com

http://www.imagemakersmedia.com

Incite Creative to Design Center for Vein Restoration’s Patient Information Materials

Center for Vein Restoration (CVR), with 18 clinics in Maryland, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Michigan, is a rapidly growing group of clinics in venous insufficiency, the medical condition behind varicose veins and spider veins.

Baltimore, MD, May 02, 2012 - Center for Vein Restoration (CVR), with 18 clinics in Maryland, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Michigan, is a rapidly growing group of clinics in venous insufficiency, the medical condition behind varicose veins and spider veins. As the company continues to thrive, it has been seeking ways to improve the communication of its services to its patients. As a result, CVR reached out to Incite Creative to help expand its offering of patient information materials.

It is estimated that 10 to 20 percent of all adults in the US are affected by venous insufficiency, with conditions ranging from embarrassing looking veins to severely curtailed mobility due to pain, fatigue, ulcers, and more. CVR hired Incite Creative to design new patient brochures and handbooks -- building on CVR’s successful web and print advertising campaign -- to better educate patients and their families on treatment options as well as help to continue the building of Center for Vein Restoration’s brand.

As a leading marketing and graphic design firm to the medical industry, Incite Creative is an excellent fit for CVR on its latest project. Incite’s president, Dina Wasmer has over 20 years experience creating marketing and branding programs for the healthcare industry. Prior to founding Incite in 1999, Dina led the publications department at Johns Hopkins School of Public Health (now the Bloomberg School of Public Health). Since that time, Incite has specialized in providing marketing, branding, and creative services to a wide range of healthcare/medical institutions, companies, and nonprofits.

"Being selected to work with the Center for Vein Restoration is a testament to our depth of healthcare/medical experience, and we're excited about this new collaboration. CVR will bring comfort and confidence to people who've been searching for a solution to their varicose and spider vein issues, and my team and I welcome the opportunity to help CVR reach those in need of their services," said Dina Wasmer.

For more information about Center for Vein Restoration and the services they provide to help aid people suffering from venous insufficiency, go to: www.centerforvein.com.

About Incite Creative (www.incitecreativeinc.com)

Now in its twelfth year in business, Incite Creative is a marketing and graphic design firm that specializes in strategic positioning, brand development and creative implementation services for Mid-Atlantic, small-to-mid-sized healthcare/medical companies and organizations, as well as other industries, that have regional, national and international reach. For more information, log onto http://www.incitecreativeinc.com or contact Dina Wasmer at 410-366-9479 ext. 2# or dina@incitecreativeinc.com.

Contact:

Dina Wasmer

Incite Creative, Inc

1501 St. Paul Street, Suite 113

Baltimore MD, 21202

410-366-9479

dina@incitecreativeinc.com

http://www.incitecreativeinc.com