Friday, April 15, 2011

Parenting Guidance for the Future is Growing with Family IQ

The unique features of Family IQ is their very effective testing to help parenting guidance that covers nine critical areas of a healthy family’s functions.

Ramona, CA, April 12, 2011 - Parenting Guidance for the future is growing with Family IQ.

The unique features of Family IQ is their very effective testing to help parenting guidance that covers nine critical areas of a healthy family’s functions. These tests are followed up with customized suggested programs to provide better understanding that will help you develop more happiness, joy and love within the family.

Parenting guidance must start with the parent’s willingness to grow with your family. This is a beginning of a journey that will bring you enormous joy and happiness throughout your life. The joy of family unity comes from the parents. Step back and look at your life and you may realize that most parents are not taught the necessary skills for effective parenting. Even as a great-grand parent, I found value in the programs, says Teets. These various programs come into play by effectively using charts, pictures, and audio to cover all areas of learning.

Teets says, after retiring from electronic engineering has pursued an interest in Home Business/Network Marketing for about five years. When he was introduced to Family IQ it became obvious that this unique program provided the tools to reach out to families and make a huge and important difference in their lives.

Learning more of how Rex Teets can help you. Mr. Teets can be reached at 760-440-0300 or visit him online at rex8teets@gmail.com or http://www.EasilyIncreaseRevenue.com for Family IQ business, http://success52.myfamilyiq.com for Family IQ products.

Contact:
Rex Teets
Family IQ
1125 H Street
Ramona, CA 92065
760-440-0300

IDentify-It Expands into Mobile Handheld Computers Market

IDentify-It online, the UK’s internet based store for custom labels, label applicators and label dispensers has launched a series of innovative new products to target the rapidly expanding market of mobile computers.

Oxford, UK, April 13, 2011 - IDentify-It online, (Oxford, UK) the UK’s internet based store for custom labels, label applicators and label dispensers has launched a series of innovative new products to target the rapidly expanding market of mobile computers. The new Pidion range offers solutions to a broad spectrum of applications and includes handheld computers, rugged PDA’s and wireless handheld scanners.

The new products feature highly flexible functionality with built in data collection and communication capabilities. Rugged ergonomic design and single handed operation allow mobile computing uses in retail, warehousing and distribution, field force automation, transportation and logistics. As a further measure of flexibility, pistol grip operation and long range barcode scanning features can be added for scan intensive environments.

Passing comment, Richard Atkins, Commercial Director of iDentify-It said, "With our extensive background in barcode scanning and labeling technologies, moving into mobile computers that apply these same technologies was the next logical step," he continued, "Reacting to our market becoming increasingly mobile and integrated by technology, our new product range will allow our customers to operate with much greater spatial flexibility whilst still maintaining excellent functionality and performance."

About the company, IDentify-It Limited is an Oxford based company that specializes in supplying a broad range of barcode scanning and labeling technologies. By providing products online IDentify-It Limited offers highly competitive prices to its customers and the freedom to purchase in their own time. With the backing and support of the Axicon Innovation Group, world renowned barcode verification experts, iDentify-it Limited aims to grow by developing innovative product ranges for the auto identification industry.

IDentify-It Limited online encourages everyone with an interest in handheld computers, PDA’s and wireless handheld scanners to visit their website. The website and new product range are now accessible at http://www.identify-it.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

AuraPortal Presents first BPM including CRM, Online Commerce and Content Managemen

AuraPortal has included the Online Commerce, Content Management and CRM Pattern Processes Modules in its BPM Suite

Woburn (Boston), MA, April 15, 2011 - AuraPortal (www.auraportal.com), a global provider of Business Process Management (BPM), has announced today the introduction of the following modules in its Business Process Management Suite: Content Management (CMS/ECM), a complete Online Commerce platform (eCommerce) and new CRM (Customer Relationship Management) Process Patterns, which will join and fully integrate with the existing AuraPortal applications set. Common to all of these applications is that no programming is required in their deployment.

AuraPortal is a real Business Process Platform, with 100% web-based technology and complete coverage of all essential areas of a company's business management structure.

Its holistic approach covers not only the modeling, execution and typical processes of BPMS monitoring but also encompasses a wide range of capabilities and synergies to increase both organizational efficiency and management.

"Of course." says Pablo Trilles, AuraPortal Vice President. "This synergy could be achieved by integrating different applications from different vendors (which is the only possibility that has existed until now) but Is that really a solution? Time and cost to undertake intertwined integration -each with their own approaches, structures and criteria- as well as dependence on multiple vendors, are limiting factors. Those who have dealt with this approach already understand this problem".

Content Management Module
The Content Management Module complements the powerful Corporate Document Management of AuraPortal, including all stages of the content's life cycle: Creation and/or capture, storage, security, flow, access, publishing, version control, retrieval, distribution, preservation and contents destruction.

The goal is to allow each entity to maintain its Web site on the Internet in an easy and automated way. Using BPM Processes, organizations can establish creation flows and approval processes for any content that the organization desires to publish (press releases, news, articles, reviews, documents, videos and type of digital content). Once content has been approved, it will be automatically published on the Web site without extra work.

Online Commerce Module
Online Commerce, is a complete e-commerce platform which includes a Shopping Cart and a Payment Gateway. Companies are able to create their own Internet sales channel. With AuraPortal, there is no need to subcontract with technical experts, since company employees can completely design their system quickly and easily, with all transaction activity monitored by the AuraPortal BPM module.

Full integration of Online Commerce with business processes and supply chain provides an extraordinary advantage, allowing unprecedented sales and order fulfillment automation.

CRM Process Patterns Module
AuraPortal provides an innovation which will define the future of CRM, that is, the complete integration of CRM functionalities with BPMS processes using Process Patterns.

Process Patterns are classes of general application process which are already prepared by AuraPortal or its partners for immediate use, containing the necessary knowledge and structure needed to ensure effective operations on a particular issue in a specific predefined environment. It's like a pre-tailored suit: Once all minor adjustments have been solved to fully adapt the suit to the measurements, the customer will buy the suit.

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

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

HU Project Leadership Forum to Explore The Art of Leading Projects Through Change

With fewer resources going into projects and greater outcomes being expected of them, something about the project management formula has to change.

Harrisburg, PA, April 07, 2011 - With fewer resources going into projects and greater outcomes being expected of them, something about the project management formula has to change. Project Leadership is the multiplier that project managers must learn to leverage in order to create more meaningful project results and greater professional success.

The 2011 Project Leadership Forum at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology will explore the impact of leadership on project management and overall business results, and will help managers develop critical competencies to become strategic partners with senior executives. The event convenes business leaders and experienced project/program managers from across several industries for presentations, case studies and interactive sessions.

The Project Leadership Forum is a two-day program, set for May 5-6, 2011, that brings together notable project management and leadership experts for keynote presentations, case study analysis and interactive leadership workshops. The Forum presents new ideas about the impact of leadership on project management and explores the critical competencies of project leadership.

The 2011 forum defines and explores the leadership acumen to accomplish project success in spite of the turbulence, uncertainty and ambiguity that permeate organizations today. Themes such as developing agility and resilience, communicating up, down and sideways, identifying priorities, assessing sources of strength and weakness, and creating trust and credibility will be explored throughout the program.

Plan to attend the Project Leadership Forum, May 5 - 6, 2011 at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology. For more information, visit online at http://www.harrisburgu.edu/academics/professional/2011program.php or email ProfessionalEd@HarrisburgU.edu or call 717.901.5190.

Harrisburg University is located at 326 Market Street in Harrisburg. Free parking is available on the street. Additionally, parking is available in the Harrisburg Parking Authority operated 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

You can literally take planes, trains and automobiles to the event. The University’s location in downtown Harrisburg is near Interstates 83 and 81 and the Pennsylvania Turnpike, making it an easy drive to the University from any of Pennsylvania’s major cities. And it’s only a two-hour drive from the University to Baltimore, Washington, DC or Philadelphia. The Amtrak Passenger Train Station and Greyhound Bus Station are one block from our location. And the Harrisburg International Airport is only nine miles from the University. http://www.harrisburgu.edu/campuslife/directions.php

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
HU Communications
326 Market Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101
717.901.5146

The Trunki Shop Launch Informational Website

The Trunki Shop announce the launch of their new website, whose function amongst many is to act as a travel advice guide for visitors.

Stamford, Lincolnshire, April 06, 2011 - The Trunki Shop announce the launch of their new website, whose function amongst many is to act as a travel advice guide for visitors. The website houses a variety of expected features such as an online ordering system, but boasts a variety of travel advice guides designed to help with jet lag, preparing for trips and entertaining children on long trips. The company has taken a novel approach to layout and simplified the viewing and shopping experience for its clients. The products are grouped into well ordered categories and presented with several product images and descriptions so visitors to the site can easily find what they are looking for.

Passing comment, Mathew Thompson (Commercial Director for the Trunki Shop) said. "We launched our new website due to recent customer feedback. Many online retailers had reported they were frustrated trying to find the right product in cluttered websites and searching through too many non-relevant products to find what they were looking for. Trunki Shop was designed to simplify the whole process for our customers by providing guides to help product selection, whilst presenting the products in easy to navigate categories along with detailed photographs and descriptions."

He continued, "Selecting the right trunki product can be difficult as there are many designs to choose from as well as several accessory products. With the new website we have managed to showcase all the products, while providing the most competitive pricing available online."

About the company, the Trunki Shop is a UK based online retailer of trunki ride on suitcases including the famous trunki gruffalo, they also stock the full trunkihead huggers, tote bags and more. The Trunki shop’s travel advice guides are available now and can be accessed online at www.trunkishop.co.uk travel range for kids including

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

Why People are Quitting MLM and Joining Top Tier Opportunities to Get Paid Instantly

Ms.Carr says, "A Top Tier Program is where you typically find the Get Paid Today or Get Paid Instantly Model. They are called Top Tier Programs

Houston, TX, April 14, 2011 - Why People are Quitting ML and Joining Top Tier Opportunities to GET PAID INSTANTLY

Mary Kay Carr has partnered up with Rod Stinson to launch The Secret Formula Webinar! What is so special about that? This is the Top Tier Program that Helps Home Based Business Owners Make Hundreds and Thousands of Dollars Weekly with a new Concept called GPI (Get Paid Instantly).

Ms.Carr says, "A Top Tier Program is where you typically find the Get Paid Today or Get Paid Instantly Model. They are called Top Tier Programs because of the caliber of people they attract and also because of the high-level incomes they can produce compared to the typical MLM.

For example, how large will your MLM team have to be in order to earn a stable $4,000 a month in a traditional MLM?

You know it will take at least 500 to 3500 people on your team to give you that sort of income. And then you will need to double that number because of attrition.

With a Top Tier Program all you need is 4 people! That’s it...

Four sales a month to be earning $4000.00 a month extra income.

Another good reason to put your efforts into a Top Tier Program is the money you earn up front is worth more now than it will be 3 or 4 years down the road.

Top Tier Opportunities pay out serious incomes, so they attract people who like to make serious money. If this describes you and if you’re a doer, if your goal is to earn $30,000 to $100,000 per month and if this GPI concept makes sense to you".visit: WealthGroupMarketing.com.

"My only focus is to help people achieve their income goals. With the GPI concept and brilliant marketing training and tools to back it up, we have the perfect combination of product, leadership, training and appropriate market timing. Together we can make a huge and positive impact in many people’s lives," says Ms. Carr.

If you are interested in learning more about how Mary Kay Carr can help you, she can be reached at 323-709-9739 or visit her online at marykaycarr@gmail.com or http://www.WealthGroupMarketing.com where her partner Rod Stinson fully explains how he and Mary Kay will help you make $1500.00 to $3400.00 per sale and Get Paid Instantly.

Contact:
Mary Kay Carr
MaryKayCarr.com
9500 West Road #304
Houston, TX 77064
323-709-9738

Innovation Expert Stephen Shapiro - Foster High Performance Teamwork - Ditch the Golden Rule and Play Some Poker

The Golden Rule is often cited as a guideline for peaceful coexistence. Surprisingly, it may in fact be counter-productive for both relationships and businesses. Following The Golden Rule literally may lead to employee dissatisfaction and conflict.

Boston, MA, April 12, 2011 (Straight Line PR) -- How can employers minimize conflict while boosting productivity within the organization? Throw out The Golden Rule. Gone by the wayside is the antiquated philosophy, "Do unto others as you would have others do unto you." Instead, treat people in the way THEY would like to be treated, and enjoy the rewards of a more effortless and effective work environment.

"The Golden Rule is positively the worst advice given, especially in business," says Stephen Shapiro, innovation leader and author of Personality Poker. ( http://PersonalityPokerBook.com ) "People operate from a dangerously misguided view that what satisfies our own needs and makes us happy is analogous to the needs and wants of those around us."

Stephen Shapiro's recent book and personality tool, Personality Poker ( http://PersonalityPokerBook.com/book ) helps the reader clearly define their preferred style. More importantly, playing this engaging and interactive poker game allows players to discover the favored mode of operation of their peers, opening up an opportunity to "Do unto them as THEY would like to have done". This invariably minimizes conflict, opens communication and enhances productivity.

"This 'one-size-fits–all' approach employed by most companies meets the needs of the few, but has lacked the capacity to positively influence the masses," says Shapiro. "Companies need to start listening to what employees really want and begin tailoring programs and processes to better align with those unique and individual needs, be it motivation, communication, performance management and / or metrics."

Shapiro expands on the topic, "Why the Golden Rule is Tarnished", in a short video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dx-lEHoc84g

About Stephen Shapiro:
Stephen Shapiro is one of the foremost authorities on innovation and collaboration, and has personally touched hundreds of thousands of lives in over 40 countries. While Stephen's insights apply to virtually any organization, big or small, he has contributed to shifting the innovation culture for such Fortune 500 organization as Staples, GE, BP, Johnson & Johnson, Fidelity Investments, Pearson Education, Nestlé, and Bristol-Myers Squibb. As the founder and creator of a 20,000 person internal innovation practice within Accenture, and advisor to hundreds of organizations worldwide, Stephen possesses a rare and extensive arsenal of tools allowing him to arm any organization with the knowledge they need to shift their most threatening challenges. His most recent project, Personality Poker ( http://PersonalityPokerBook.com/book ), released by Penguin Portfolio in October 2010, is a card game that has been played by over 25,000 people in boardrooms and living rooms around the world.

Stephen can be reached at 617-379-1177 or online at http://PersonalityPokerBook.com

Contact: Deborah Shapiro, 24/7 Innovation, 773-213-4485
http://SteveShapiro.com, http://linkedin.com/in/shapiroinnovates

Please contact http://www.PressReleaseNation.com for corrections or updates.

Contact:
Stephen Shapiro
24/7 Innovation
2001 Marina Drive
Suite 807
Quincy, MA 02171
617-379-1177

Thursday, April 14, 2011

Greenwood Management Announces Introduction of White Pine Plantations

Greenwood's forestry management experts have decided upon White Pine as it is an extremely durable timber, which can be processed in a timber mill up to a year after being cut down.

Copenhagen, Denmark, April 14, 2011 - Forestry investment and plantation management firm Greenwood Management has announced that it is to begin planting a new species in its Brazilian plantations, in the form of White Pine - a timber that is popular as a specialty wood for use in the furniture industry.

Greenwood's forestry management experts have decided upon White Pine as it is an extremely durable timber, which can be processed in a timber mill up to a year after being cut down. This makes it ideal for exportation, which is a major growth area for Greenwood.

Greenwood already plants Black Wattle, Acacia, Bamboo, Eucalyptus and Guanandi species in its Brazilian plantations and returns are healthy for investors. Greenwood offers its clients something unique in that it operates similarly to a commercial real estate development fund: investors can put up as little €10,000, which will be invested in existing, operational forestry and agricultural development projects. This allows it to grow and expand and it also allows it to offer investors the chance to take a stake in projects that would otherwise be out of their reach financially.

Returns are paid in the medium term to investors, funded by sales of crops from the existing plantations.

The forestry investments offered by Greenwood Management represent an excellent opportunity to protect your portfolio from the impact of economic volatility. In fact, forestry as an asset has outperformed most global equity and bond indices over the past three decades. It has a low correlation to traditional investments, so even when the stock markets are crashing, forestry investment typically stands up to the pressure, helping to reduce the risk in investment portfolios.

Investors also often enjoy the predictable growth offered through forestry investment. White Pine specifically, is a good crop for generating high returns as it takes minimal labour and management, while being extremely desirable as a furniture-making material as it is so easy to work and finish. Young White Pine trees are also often used as Christmas or ornamental trees and crops are also used to build wooden constructions such has log cabins.

The demand for White Pine, along with other plantation-grown timbers in Brazil, will become increasingly popular thanks to legislation that discourages firms from using native timbers from certain regions of Brazil.

Contact:
Michael Voss
Greenwood Management ApS
Copenhagen, Denmark 1000-2999
00 (45) 36 95 37 44

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Luxury Travel Vietnam to Launch Jungle Tour of Vietnam

Luxury Travel Unveils Two Day Tour to the Jungle Nam Cat Tien National Park

Hanoi, Vietnam, April 11, 2011 - Luxury Travel Ltd (www.luxurytravelvietnam.com) is an innovation luxury tour operator in Vietnam and unveils very often new upscale travel experiences for the most discerning travelers.

Located 160 km from Ho Chi Minh City, Nam Cat Tien National Park is reported to have 600 plant species, 240 bird species, and 50 species of mammals including the one-horn rhinoceros, one of several endangered mammals from Vietnam listed in the World Red Book.




Nam Cat Tien National Park is situated about 160 km north of Ho Chi Minh City. The park was established in 1998 and is actually comprised of two separate areas, Nam Cat Tien and Cat Loc, which are linked by the Dong Nai River.

Together they cover around 185,000 acres of evergreen rainforest which is home to over 600 varieties of plants, 240 types of birds and 50 species of mammals, including the one-horn Javan rhinoceros.

The rhino is one of several endangered mammals in Vietnam that has almost been driven to extinction by by man’s greed. In the past poachers could expect a large purse from the sale of rhino horn.

The Javan rhino was thought to be extinct in Vietnam until the 1980’s when a few were discovered in the northern part of Cat Loc.

In 1992 Cat Loc was declared a Rhino sanctuary by the World Wildlife Fund, who estimate that there are only 5 to 8 Javan rhinos left. Their very existence as a species is still under threat, although it is hoped that an increase in awareness and a sustainable eco-tourism industry can safeguard the animal’s future.

Certainly the 60 park wardens take great pride in their "Vietnamese Rhino" and continually patrol the area on the lookout for poachers.

"Luxury Travel Company is currently operating small group trips in the national park and we appreciate the importance of being beneficial rather than detrimental to the fragile eco-system that exists in the Cat Tien National Park" says Pham Ha, CEO and Founder of Luxury Travel Vietnam. "We limit our groups to a maximum of ten people and stay in the newly built Forest Floor Lodge within the sanctuary and can opt camping in the jungle. Inside the park you can trek, animal watch, ride bicycles and boat along the river and explore one of Vietnam’s as yet untouched treasures"

Forest Floor Lodge offers boutique 12 accommodation units, suitable for double occupancy consisting of deluxe tents, and traditional Vietnamese wooden houses. These are secluded and equipped for your comfort, with good quality bathrooms, and tastefully selected furnishings. Each room is provided with a mini-bar, ceiling fans, and air-conditioning units as required.

The Forest Floor Lodge accommodation units are accessed via elevated walkways and offer either views across the Dong Nai river, or a ‘living in the jungle’ ambience.

The Executive Tent #B2 is highly recommended for a wonderful view on the river and privacy.

Tour costs starts from 231 USD per peson based on the private party of two people, inclusive of private pick up, drop off services from Saigon, ferry, walking tour, a private jeep for animal watch at night, transfer by a private car, English speaking guide, accommodation and meals. This cost is valid until 31 September 2011. Guests can opt for a 3 day package program with one additional night in Bau Sau or Crocodile Lake.

For more tour information and online booking, visit: http://www.luxurytravelvietnam.com

Contact:
David Nguyen
Luxury Travel Group Company
05 Nguyen Truong To Street
Ba Dinh Dist, Hanoi 71000
Vietnam
+84.4.3927 4120

AAA announces Support for Impact Reporting and Investment Standards

Impact investment advocacy and analysis group, Alternative Asset Analysis (AAA), has said it supports the Global Impact Investment Network's Impact Reporting and Investment Standards (IRIS).

Boston, Mass, April 08, 2011 - Impact investment advocacy and analysis group, Alternative Asset Analysis (AAA), has said it supports the Global Impact Investment Network's Impact Reporting and Investment Standards (IRIS).

A growing number of wealthy investors are looking for projects to place their money that will offer a socially responsible investment opportunity that nurtures projects in developing countries and hold scope for returns later down the line. This is known as impact investing and the issue has become increasingly high profile in light of the success of projects sponsored by large funds such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

AAA says that these projects have had major positive influences on people's lives and the environment over a reasonably short space of time. One example of a success story is the Kenyan rose farming industry. After an expose in 2003, the world suddenly became aware that the $500m industry's practices were harmful to the people and the environment in the Lake Naivasha region of Kenya. Now, thanks to the investment - which was even more necessary after drought and flood hit the region, leaving the workers desperate to establish a sustainable living - the industry has transformed.

Better working conditions and a renewed focus on sustainability have emerged. However, AAA's Anthony Johnson has said it is not always easy for investors to establish and evaluate the true impact their investment will make. It is also sometimes challenging to know whether a project is truly beneficial to all parties and to the environment. Many controversial areas like biofuels can split opinion as to what is an ethical investment and what is the opposite.

"This is where the IRIS comes in," stated Mr Johnson. "The IRIS provides a standardised format through which businesses report their social and environmental performances, helping investors to understand the impact being made by organisations they are interested in."

The Global Impact Investment Network has said, "IRIS aims to increase the value of non-financial data by enabling performance comparisons and benchmarking, while also streamlining and simplifying reporting requirements for companies and their investors."

For individuals looking for projects to invest in, but who have more modest bank accounts, excellent ethical investment opportunities can be found in Brazil, according Mr Johnson. Plantation firms like Greenwood Management are growing sustainable crops of non-native trees such as Teak, which help to support projects and legislation that prevents deforestation.

Contact:
Anthony Johnson
Alternative Asset Analysis
71 Commercial St
Boston, MA 02109-1320
617-898-6317

Saturday, April 9, 2011

Case Studies at LEEF will Explore How Games Change the Nature of Learning and Work

LEEF is an interactive professional development event that explores the use of games, simulations and virtual worlds for learning.

Harrisburg, PA, April 05, 2011 - Through interactive case studies attendees of the 2011 Learning and Entertainment Evolution Forum (LEEF) will explore leading edge applications of serious games with industry experts and peers during the event, which is set for is set for June 16-17 at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology in PA.

LEEF is an interactive professional development event that explores the use of games, simulations and virtual worlds for learning. The program showcases how learning and entertainment technologies have converged and continue to evolve to produce solutions that are redefining the learning experience.

The 2011 lineup will includes an array of keynote speakers, exhibits and case studies exploring how serious games, simulations and virtual worlds change the nature of learning and work, including:

LSU and Louisiana Transportation Research Center: Training Semi-Skilled Workers in an Immersive Virtual Learning Environment

SSE: The Next Generation of Learning: Mobile Simulations

Tandem Learning: A Cosmos of Options: How Alternate Reality Games May Be the Most Versatile Tool in Your Learning Games Toolkit

Concurrent Technologies Corporation: Corrections Learning Environment: A Case Study into Designing Experiential Games to Meet Instructional Objectives

School of Professional Studies CUNY Graduate Center: Emergency Response Simulation for the City of New York

Case studies provide an in-depth study of successful serious game projects and examine measures to identify evidence of changed behavior and outcomes and the project’s return on investment, access to the application or resources used to create the program, and peer discussion to identify takeaways for projects.

Keynote presentations during LEEF 2011 include:

* Fun is Not the Enemy of Work, Nathan Verrill, Co-Founder of Natron Baxter Applied Gaming & Gameful, Thursday, June 16, 2011, 9:00 am;

* Immersive Education and Training, Michael Macedonia, Vice President and Vice President and Chief Scientist at SAIC, Friday, June 17, 2011, 8:30 am;

* How IBM Leads Change with Serious Games, Phaedra Boinidiris, Serious Games Program Manager at IBM, Friday, June 17, 2011, 2:15 pm.

Additionally, LEEF 2011 is expected to feature focused instructional workshops, one-on-one time with innovators and entrepreneurs in the exhibitors' area, and lots of opportunities for networking with a diverse array of attendees. The annual event is ideal for training and development professionals, e-learning designers and developers, educators and instructors, and game designers and developers.

More information on becoming a presenter or exhibitor at LEEF 2011, or to sign up for updates, please email LEEF@HarrisburgU.edu, call 717.901.5190 or go online to http://www.GoLEEF.com

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
HU Communications
326 Market Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101
717.901.5146

Tree Service of LA Offers Advice on Trees and Power Lines

According to an expert of Premiere Tree Services of Los Angeles, If tree limbs grow into a power line they can create all sorts of problems.

Los Angeles, CA, April 07, 2011 - Trees and power lines can make a very bad and potentially dangerous combination. If you have a power line and trees on your property make sure the two never mix.

According to an expert of Premiere Tree Services of Los Angeles, "If tree limbs grow into a power line they can create all sorts of problems. The electricity from the power lien can spark a fire or the tree can disrupt electrical service to you and your neighbors." This means that you should consider cutting down trees near the power lines or removing limbs from a tree near the power lines.

There is also a danger that branches from trees will fall on the power line. This can also interrupt electric service and create a fire or electrocution hazard. Therefore any branch sticking out over a power line should be removed as soon as you notice it.

Safe Tree Maintenance and Removal
Always be careful working on a tree that is close to the power line. If a tree is right next to the power line it would be a good idea to hire a professional tree service to trim it or cut it down. It might also be a good idea to call the electric company and ask them what to do.

Cutting down trees next to the power line or trimming trees next to the power line can be a very dangerous proposition. There is a danger of electrocution from downed power lines and lines can also start a fire.

There is also a strong possibility that the power company will make you pay for any damage that you do to power lines. If you cut a tree that falls on the electrical line you will probably have to pay for the repairs.

This is why this kind of tree work is best left to the professionals. In some cases, the power company will do this for you but not always.

Your Responsibility and the Power Company’s Authority
Something to remember is that if you don’t maintain trees near the power line, the utility’s crews may come out and do it for you whether you want them to or not.

There maybe little or nothing you can do about this because the electric company probably has an easement across your property. This is a legal right to build a power line and take whatever steps are necessary to maintain it. The electric company is well within its rights to remove any tree that is interfering with a power line.

There is also a strong possibility that the electric company could bill you for such tree removal efforts. This means you should take some action to cut keep trees of power lines.

For more information, contact Premiere Tree Services of Los Angeles, 11301 W. Olympic Boulevard, Suite 717, Los Angeles, CA 90064, call (323) 601-5103, email losangeles@premieretreeservices.com or visit http://losangeles.premieretreeservices.com/

Contact;
Andrew Deacon
Premiere Tree Services of Los Angeles
11301 W. Olympic Boulevard, Suite 717
Los Angeles, CA 90064
(323) 601-5103

New RedEye Webinar - Understanding Conversion Rate Optimisation

Join us on 20th April 2011 to discover the tools and strategies for optimising your website

Shenley Wood, Milton Keynes, April 08, 2011 - RedEye today announces the third of its series of concise digital marketing webinars focusing on website conversion, ‘Understanding Conversion Rate Optimisation’.

The webinar takes place on Wednesday 20th April 2011 at 3.00-3.30pm and will be presented by RedEye CEO, Mark Patron.

On average websites only convert around 2-3% of visitors. This is because improving conversion is complex. But there are ways to improve best practice and make it easier for all digital marketers to get better results.

For two years, RedEye has been working with Econsultancy to research the tools and strategies used by online companies to improve website conversion.

Past research revealed 89% of companies who implemented a structured approach, did improve conversion.

Through analysis and experience, incorporating the findings of two years of research with Econsultancy, RedEye has produced a defined strategy to help companies understand what they can do to optimise their websites and improve online conversion in a structured way.

This insightful webinar will provide attendees with the following insight:

* Learn how to incorporate a range of tools and strategies in a structured way to improve conversion

* Discover what tools and strategies are most effective when it comes to optimising your website

* Understand the process of Conversion Rate Optimisation and learn how it can be strategically implemented

About the speaker
Mark Patron has been CEO of RedEye since 2006. He has 25 years experience in direct, data and digital marketing. He founded leading direct marketing companies Abacus and Claritas UK, now Acxiom. Chairman of AIM listed company Twenty Plc, he was voted one of UK’s most influential direct marketers by readers of Precision Marketing magazine.

Title: Understanding Conversion Rate Optimisation

How to Attend

Timing:
20thApril 2011
3.00pm-3.30pm
20 minutes with 10 minute Q&A

Press Contacts
Katie Traynier, Marketing Manager: katie.traynier@redeye.com, 01908 340 903

About RedEye
RedEye is the leader in behavioural email. RedEye has been helping online companies improve conversion since 1997, providing an integrated service of email marketing, web analytics and website usability.

In 2001 RedEye launched the first behavioural email campaign for William Hill. Behavioual email integrates web analytics with email marketing to produce highly targeted emails based on online user behaviour. Today RedEye helps hundreds of online companies improve conversion using behavioural email, achieving results such as of 750% ROI and 10% online conversion. In 2010 RedEye launched Behavioural Email onDemand, a self service solution enabling online companies to run basic behavioural email campaigns such as basket abandonment.

By integrating analytics with usability RedEye offers a unique service of Conversion Rate Optimisation. This service provides a structured process to help online companies fully analyse customer behaviour, enabling marketers to make the correct changes or implement the right strategies to improve online conversion.

RedEye previously won the NMA Award for ‘Best Use of Email’ and was shortlisted in the Econsultancy Innovation Awards for ‘Innovation in Email Marketing’.

RedEye currently has 3 UK offices (London, Milton Keynes and Crewe) and has just launched its first European Office in Dusseldorf, Germany. RedEye clients include French Connection, Haven Holidays, Hotel Chocolat, ASOS, Monarch, Butlins, HSBC and Ted Baker.

Contact:
Katie Traynier
Marketing Manager
26 Shenley Pavilions
Chalkdell Drive
Shenley Wood
Milton Keynes MK5 6LB
01908 340 903

Run Your Organization Like a Formula 1 Pit Crew and Race Past The Competition

It's no secret that change is occurring at breakneck speeds. But knowing this seems to make little difference. Many companies are, in essence, standing still while the most innovative and flexible organizations whiz by effortlessly.

Boston, MA, April 07, 2011 (Straight Line PR) -- Is your company operating at a speed that's keeping it ahead of the pace? Or is it simply running as fast as possible, upon the proverbial hamster wheel, gaining little traction to speed well beyond the competition? If this is the case, consider operating like a Formula 1 Pit Crew, to rev up productivity and throughput. Their tried and true principles will optimize any business and create high performing teams.

"Why is it that pit crews produce unprecedented results in just a matter of seconds? They employ three main principles that can and should be applied within your own organization to create peak levels of performance," says Stephen Shapiro, innovation leader and author of Personality Poker. ( http://PersonalityPokerBook.com/book ) "First, each team member must be acutely aware of his specific strengths and - even more importantly - play to those strengths to maximize efficiencies. Secondly, the team must have a full complement of all styles represented to ensure that each essential role is covered. And lastly, the team should use a 'divide and conquer' methodology. Divvy up the work based on which style is most effective at a given task."

Stephen Shapiro's recent book and personality tool, Personality Poker, allows teams, within minutes, to clearly determine the individual strengths of each member. This critical awareness makes it possible to place people in the most effective roles for leveraging their talents. Additionally, this same instrument highlights aptitude deficiencies so that you can effectively bring your team into its necessary balance.

"When watching a Formula 1 Pit Crew, it's easy to see that each person clearly knows his strengths and is placed in the role that best compliments those capabilities," explains Shapiro in part two of his recent interview with IdeaConnection ( http://1clik2.com/PerformanceParadox ). "It's also evident that if just one of the 20 members were absent, the outcome would be entirely thwarted. Despite the obviousness of this example, many organizations are still operating with the absence of critical skills that would ensure them the ability to cross the finish line significantly ahead their competition."

See Stephen speak more on these principles in a short video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=22GbJqjic1E

About Stephen Shapiro:
Stephen Shapiro is one of the foremost authorities on innovation and collaboration, and has personally touched hundreds of thousands of lives in over 40 countries. While Stephen's insights apply to virtually any organization, big or small, he has contributed to shifting the innovation culture for such Fortune 500 organization as Staples, GE, BP, Johnson & Johnson, Fidelity Investments, Pearson Education, Nestlé, and Bristol-Myers Squibb. As the founder and creator of a 20,000 person internal innovation practice within Accenture, and advisor to hundreds of organizations worldwide, Stephen possesses a rare and extensive arsenal of tools allowing him to arm any organization with the knowledge they need to shift their most threatening challenges. His most recent project, Personality Poker ( http://PersonalityPokerBook.com/book ), released by Penguin Portfolio in October 2010, is a card game that has been played by over 25,000 people in boardrooms and living rooms around the world.

Stephen can be reached at 617-379-1177 or online at http://PersonalityPokerBook.com

Press Contact: Stephen Shapiro, 24/7 Innovation, 2001 Marina Drive Suite 807, Quincy, MA 02171, 617-379-1177, steve@24-7innovation.com

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

Contact
Deborah Shapiro
24/7 Innovation
2001 Marina Drive Suite 807
Quincy, MA 02171
773-213-4485

Friday, April 8, 2011

Harrisburg University Virtusphere Can Take Users Almost Anywhere

At first glance it may look like a giant hamster ball, but it is really an amazing new tool for exploring virtual environments.

Harrisburg, PA, April 07, 2011 - At first glance it may look like a giant hamster ball, but it is really an amazing new tool for exploring virtual environments. Known as the Virtusphere, Harrisburg University of Science and Technology in Pennsylvania is home to one of only four of these tools in the United States.

The state-of-the art simulation platform has endless possibilities as students work to develop virtual worlds to be explored on campus and off, says Charles Palmer, executive director of the school’s Center for Advanced Entertainment and Learning Technologies.

The Virtusphere is a 10-foot hollow sphere that is placed on a special platform that allows the sphere to rotate freely in any direction according to the user’s steps. Wearing a wireless, head-mounted display, users can step inside the sphere to fully interact in immersive virtual environments. The Virtusphere enables 6 degrees of freedom - one can move in any direction; walk, jump, roll, crawl, run over virtually unlimited distances without encountering real-world physical obstacles.

The movement by the user is replicated within the virtual environment. The same hardware set can be used for different applications by changing only the software applications. This state-of-the-art simulation platform provides infinite space for the most immersive experience ranging from entertainment to medical training.

"One of the things we like to do here is to make everything very experiential so when we give our students experiences, we want them to be other than just a classroom and a lecture What we want to do is really look at places that people can't be and places that people can't go. So what if I could ride or walk thought the blood stream of a person, what if I could actually watch a cancer cell as it mutates or what if I could walk around the solar system?"

It's not just science; the Virtusphere could be a time machine and take you back to Gettysburg in 1863.

Palmer said that is very easy to show. "You can imagine let's say you want to put someone in the role of a frontline solider, right there in the battle itself and someone sit in here with the goggles on and sort of look left and right and see other soldiers and look across the battle field and see the charging enemy coming at them."

Anything that is spatial and could be explored is a possibility, making the Virtusphere ideal for simulation training for military, law enforcement, fire safety, and counter terrorism, entertainment & gaming, health and fitness, museums & education, architecture and construction walk thrus, events and shows, virtual travel & tourism.

Harrisburg University undergraduate student Todd Baker plans to use the Virtusphere to develop a robot that can be controlled by a person in the sphere for his senior project.

"Let’s say, for instance, Three Mile Island had an accident. Someone could use one of these to drive a robot from anywhere, even Washington, D.C., for instance. They wouldn’t have to put any humans in danger, and you would still be able to handle the situation," Baker said.

The STEM-focused private comprehensive university has been in contact with businesses and organizations in the community, pitching ideas for practical uses of the sphere. Faculty and students at the University are creating customized virtual environments for use in the Virtusphere. To learn more about the Virtusphere, to request a tour, to discuss a project, or to meet with faculty about the device, email Connect@HarrisburgU.edu. Visit online at http://www.HarrisburgU.edu/Virtusphere

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
AVP Communications
326 Market Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101
717.901.5146