FRA has spoken out to support Greenpeace Southeast Asia in calling for more commitments from Asia Pulp & Paper (APP) over its use of rainforest-sourced timber in its products.
Bainbridge Island, WA, October 25, 2012 - Forestry Research Analysis (FRA) has spoken out to support Greenpeace Southeast Asia in calling for more commitments from Asia Pulp & Paper (APP) over its use of rainforest-sourced timber in its products.
The statement from Greenpeace’s Bustar Maitar called for APP to make a firm commitment not to use rainforest timber. This follows reports that APP had teamed up with Swiss NGO, The Forest Trust, to try to improve the sustainability of its supply chain.
His statement said, "APP must immediately stop accepting timber from natural forest clearance and confirm that no expansion will take place unless that expansion and the rest of APP's production is wholly reliant on plantation fiber."
FRA, a research and analysis consultancy specializing in sustainable forestry investment issues, agreed adding: "We support Greenpeace's calls for more commitment from APP over its sourcing policies – until we see some concrete evidence that the firm has stopped using timber sourced from rainforests, many onlookers will be taking their plans with a pinch of salt."
Mr Maitar goes on to claim that the association with the Forest Trust is a "PR campaign", while FRA's analysis partner, Peter Collins, added that the issue was particularly concerning as a result of the firm's recent link with a new mill in Sumatra. This mill is expected to have the capacity to process two million tons of timber each year. "Indonesia's rainforest are extremely vulnerable and are still very much at threat from logging," added Mr Collins.
FRA is an advocate of sustainable forestry investment and promotes projects like those run by firms such as Greenwood Management in Brazil and elsewhere. "Investing in plantations projects that are managed on a cyclical model can help to reduce the pressure to use rainforest timber, by providing an alternative that is much less harmful to the environment," added Mr Collins.
Contact:
Peter Collins
Forestry Research Associates
620 Vineyard Lane
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
(206) 316 8394
info@forestry-research.com
http://www.forestry-research.co.uk
Online megastore Writers SuperCenter, the one-stop resource for creative writers, forms strategic partnership with ThoughtOffice Creative & Comedy Writing Software. Selected ThoughtOffice titles will now be offered in bundles or a la carte at Writers SuperCenter's web site.
Norfolk, VA, October 24, 2012 (Straight Line PR) -- ThoughtOffice Corporation, the makers of the eponymous creativity and brainstorming software, ThoughtOffice, has announced a partnership with Writers SuperCenter. The joint venture was developed to provide creative writing software to customers of Writers SuperCenter, and to help provide additional input and direction to ThoughtOffice's next generation offering. This new partnership adds to the already impressive lineup of software for writers offered by Writers SuperCenter.
"We're very happy to announce this new partnership with Writers SuperCenter," said David Lockman, product specialist for ThoughtOffice Corporation. "These guys have been providing writing software to creative professionals since just about the beginning of time, and when they approached us to add ThoughtOffice to their catalog, we were delighted. They're an impressive bunch of folks to be working with."
ThoughtOffice, the successor program to the legendary IdeaFisher brainstorming software ( http://www.ideafisher.com ), was originally developed to assist communications professionals, by allowing them to expand their thought processes both laterally and in depth. Similarly, Writers SuperCenter was founded specifically to support writers world-wide with the best software available, from a host of vendors.
Irwin Berent of Writers SuperCenter originally contacted ThoughtOffice with the idea of carrying ThoughtOffice's creative writing software on his site ( http://www.writersupercenter.com/muse ). The software company eagerly jumped at the chance to work with such a well-regarded online retailer as Writers SuperCenter. It's turned out to be a great match. Writers SuperCenter is known to writers the world around, and ThoughtOffice software is increasingly becoming the "secret weapon" of choice for writers who really want to expand their creativity.
"I'm excited to finally be working with the folks at ThoughtOffice," says Berent, CEO and owner of Writers SuperCenter. "They have a well-made product, they've been very easy to work with, and are very responsive to my customers. We're looking forward to the coming year, and are expecting this collaboration to be very good for both companies, and for our customers!"
Writers SuperCenter now offers several ThoughtOffice products designed to specifically meet the needs of writers and professional communicators. Novelists will find ThoughtOffice Muse, the creative writing package that's also geared towards corporate executives and speakers, and ThoughtOffice PR Pro ( http://www.writersupercenter.com/prpro/ ), which is designed for public relations professionals in any industry. Customers can order the software for immediate download (or via snail mail on CD) through Writers SuperCenter, with the assurance that comes with ordering from an established online retailer, coupled with the excellent customer support offered by ThoughtOffice Corporation. The software includes online training videos, support and training documents, and a one-year upgrade/sidegrade guarantee. Writers SuperCenter is also bundling ThoughtOffice creativity software in special Combination Deals, which can be found online at http://www.writersupercenter.com/order.htm
"Irwin's phenomenal to work with," ThoughtOffice CEO Mark Alan Effinger noted. "He's an early adopter - a believer - in the power of software to partner with 'wetware': the writer's brain. He's brought us truly talented customers. And he's given us interesting product ideas that we're planning to explore." Effinger added cryptically, "More on that later!"
About Writers SuperCenter:
Unlike any other store on the Internet, the Writers SuperCenter is the only store that buys writer's software on a massive scale, offering its customers the lowest possible prices. All products are the most up-to-date versions, fully warranted by their manufacturers, and supported by the company's 24 x 7 tech support staff. Writers SuperCenter is a family-owned enterprise, located in Norfolk, VA. Since 1996, the company has been offering the best software for writers through its online store at http://www.writersupercenter.com/ . For more information, contact the Writers SuperCenter via their web site, or by phone at 1-800-589-1022.
The company also publishes the online magazine Hampton Roads Times, promoting businesses in the Southeastern Virginia metropolitan area, "America's First Region." More information is available at http://www.HamptonRoadsTimes.com/
About ThoughtOffice Corporation:
ThoughtOffice, based in Vancouver, WA, develops and markets tools that empower individuals and organizations to create valuable ideas and improve productivity by enhancing innovation. Founded in 1998, the company produces writing, brainstorming and creativity software, and its sister company, RichContent, provides PR & business services to technology startups and fast-growth companies. The WebNutrients division approaches innovation and creativity via "WetWare" - thought-enhancing nutritional supplements. The company's web site can be found at http://www.ThoughtRod.com . ThoughtOffice can be reached by phone at 360-450-6888 or e-mail to info@thoughtoffice.com
Please contact http://www.PressReleaseNation.com for corrections or updates.
Press Contact:
David Lockman
Product Specialist
ThoughtOffice Corporation
5640 SE Riverside Way
Vancouver, WA 98661
360-450-6888
info@thoughtoffice.com
http://www.ThoughtRod.com
Non-profit Funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Helps Students With “The Will But Not The Way” Earn Capabilities-Based, Affordable Associates Degrees
Denver, CO, October 24, 2012 - Today, MyCollege Foundation and Mount St. Mary’s College, Los Angeles, announced the launch of Portmont College at Mount St. Mary’s, to offer high-quality, transfer-level Associate degrees to high-potential students who have “the will but not the way” to college success. With all-in costs of $5,240 per student per year—approximately the amount of a Federal Pell Grant, Portmont College at Mount St. Mary’s will provide access to quality personalized learning solutions and comprehensive wrap-around support services that will ensure high persistence and graduation levels. The MyCollege Foundation concept was developed during the founder’s time as an Entrepreneur-in-Residence at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which has also provided early grant support. Portmont College has been developed in close partnership with Mount St. Mary’s College, which is ranked among the top 30 regional universities in the West by US News & World Report. Mount St. Mary’s College is a regionally accredited institution and Portmont students will be eligible to receive Title IV funds while attending the college.
“Portmont is designed to be the springboard for those young adults who have the grit and determination to succeed, but who face burdens and barriers, financial or otherwise, that could limit that success,” said Srikant Vasan, Founder and President of Portmont College at Mount St. Mary’s. “In partnership with Mount St. Mary’s College, we have created top quality, yet affordable, Associate’s degree programs that combine rigorous academics with critical supports and resources to ensure students can not only access, but complete the high-quality education necessary to build careers and create futures for themselves.”
“Portmont offers a degree attainment option for underserved students through a scalable and cost-effective model,” said Josh Jarrett, Deputy Director of Postsecondary Success, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. “We are pleased to see this idea, conceived while Srikant was an Entrepreneur-in-Residence at the foundation, come to life. This model is designed to deliver a rigorous academic program for students who have more motivation than means and connect them to opportunities they wouldn't otherwise have.”
“Mount St. Mary’s has had a longstanding commitment to educating the underserved. This new, exciting partnership brings this commitment and our top-quality curriculum together with Portmont’s innovations in pedagogy, technology, and student supports to offer a high quality, personalized educational experience to thousands of new students. The launch of Portmont College at Mount St. Mary’s will help address the national challenge of broadening access to high quality education at lower costs,” said Dr. Ann McElaney-Johnson, President of Mount St. Mary’s College.
Building Capabilities Needed For Long-Term Success
The college anticipates launching four blended Associate degree programs that combine the best of personalized online education with in-person student cohorts, supports, and social learning opportunities: Business Administration, Computer Science, Liberal Arts, and Pre-Health Science. These programs have been uniquely developed with Portmont’s target student population in mind. From its personalized learning environment that tracks mastery of course material to prescriptive course sequencing and social and problem-based learning approaches, the Portmont experience has been carefully designed to ensure its students’ success and prepare its graduates to transfer to an elite four-year degree institution or launch their career.
The hallmark of the Portmont College at Mount St. Mary’s curriculum is its focus on core capabilities that students will need for long-term career success. This includes curriculum designed to advance skills such as critical thinking, problem solving, communications, information literacy, teamwork, performance character, and learning to learn. Unlike other institutions, these core capabilities are not only taught, but developed and measured at a student level multiple times within each course. Students, their potential employers, and the Portmont community of support will consistently have visibility into a student’s progress along these core capabilities.
“Portmont students will graduate with not just a high quality, respected degree, but also the ability to think clearly, work well in teams, and communicate effectively,” said Srikant Vasan. “They will have what they need to succeed in the workforce and in their communities.”
Creating Meaningful Connections
Portmont students will be part of a connected, supportive community of faculty, coaches, and peers. It starts with the Portmont “Success Launch Process,” which goes beyond the cognitive topics typically addressed by college success courses and utilizes a series of four courses to develop intrapersonal and interpersonal skills correlated to work and life success. Before being accepted to Portmont, prospective students attend the “Launch Pad” – a free three-week online course that provides an opportunity for the college to observe students’ online course taking behavior first-hand, as student behavior is one of the primary criteria for gaining admission into the full Portmont program. If successful, students will advance to “Ignition” – an intensive in-person, one-week experiential learning program to absorb the college culture, and bond with their Success Coach and the 15 cohort peers who will form their support community. These student cohorts start coursework together and provide mutual help and support through social media tools. During the students’ first two academic terms they will continue the sequence in the “Lift Off” and “Soar” courses to reinforce the concepts learned in prior courses and provide ongoing support. Throughout their Portmont experience, students will have a personal support network of success coaches and faculty who will continually tailor proactive interventions using student-specific academic and behavioral data.
Portmont College at Mount St. Mary’s will work with community partners, such as charter schools, public schools, and community organizations to identify students with grit and determination but also the burdens and barriers to success. The admissions team will evaluate candidates based primarily on their grit, motivation, and resilience. Given the community-centricity and the need for holistic, blended student supports, Portmont will launch and grow city-by-city starting in Denver, Colorado, and followed next by San Francisco, California. Once the model is working well in Denver and San Francisco, Portmont plans to admit students from additional cities nationwide.
Cultivating a Student-Centric Team
In addition to the administrative and faculty leadership at Mount St. Mary’s College, which has been intimately involved in the development and approval of its curriculum, Portmont College at Mount St. Mary’s assembled a team of seasoned professionals, including:
* Srikant Vasan, President: Former Senior program officer at Gates Foundation, co-founder & CEO of StorePerform and KBkids, Founding team member and director of business development of MediaOne, Consultant at McKinsey & Co.
* Dr. Vernon Smith, Provost: Former Vice President of Academic Affairs at Rio Salado College, a nationally recognized online college with tens of thousands of online students. Serves on the board of directors of EDUCAUSE.
* Dr. Michael Cottam, Dean of Instruction: Former Associate Dean of Instruction at Rio Salado College and a certified Quality Matters Reviewer.
* Lucas Budman, Chief Technology Officer: Former Vice President and Head of Technology for Cognilytics, Director of Research for RedPrairie and Store Perform Technologies and Senior Architect for Xcel Energy Markets.
* Ann Marie O’Connor, Vice President of Product Management: Former Director of Retail Strategy at RedPrairie and product management for StorePerform.
* Dr. Jim Knickerbocker, Director of Student Engagement: Former Managing Director of Academy for College Excellence, Organizational development consultant at Hewlett-Packard.
* Shannon Neumann, Director of Enrollment Management: Former Director of Enrollment Management for Ivy Bridge College of Tiffin University.
Portmont College at Mount St. Mary’s is now accepting student applications, and it will host its first three-week Success Launch Pad Course in December with the first academic semester beginning on March 4, 2013. Portmont will offer rolling admission there after.
About Portmont College at Mount St. Mary’s
Portmont College at Mount St. Mary’s is a non-profit joint venture between Mount St. Mary’s College and MyCollege Foundation. Through Mount St. Mary’s College, a national, non-profit, regionally accredited institution, it offers high-quality, transfer-level Associate degrees to high-potential students who have “the will but not the way” to college success. With all-in costs of $5,240 per student per year – approximately the amount of a Federal Pell Grant – students have affordable access to quality personalized learning solutions, comprehensive wrap-around support services, and post-program placement, ensuring high persistence and graduation levels. For more information, visit portmont.la.edu.
About Mount St. Mary’s, Los Angeles;
Founded in 1925, Mount St. Mary’s College is a Catholic, liberal arts college where excellence and innovation define its every endeavor. Mount St. Mary’s provides a dynamic education to a diverse student body that primarily includes women, first-generation students and other underserved populations. Mount St. Mary’s offers associate and bachelor’s degrees for women, as well as undergraduate and graduate programs for working adults on two historic campuses in Los Angeles. The mission of Mount St. Mary’s is to provide a superior education enhanced by an emphasis on building leadership skills and fostering a spirit to serve others.
About MyCollege Foundation:
MyCollege Foundation, is a 501c(3) public charity and a grantee of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. It aims to help low-income youth in America gain high quality college credentials more affordably. It has partnered with Mount St. Mary’s College to establish Portmont College at Mount St. Mary’s, and provides Portmont College with the funding and the pedagogical, technology, and student support innovations it needs to succeed in its mission.
Contact:
Lindsey Read
CSG PR
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
937 408 9321
lread@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com
"Bringing on the Blues", the Women's Resource Center of Manatee 2012 fundraiser, will be held on Friday, November 30th, 2012 at 7:00 pm - kicking off the 1st Annual Bradenton Blues Festival.
Bradenton, FL, October 22, 2012 (Straight Line PR) -- The Women's Resource Center of Manatee will be holding its 2012 fundraiser on Friday, November 30th. The benefit concert and food event, "Bringing on the Blues", will formally kick off the 1st Annual Bradenton Blues Festival.
The evening-long event will be held in the historic and atmospheric "Brickyard" - behind the O'Bricks Irish Pub on Old Main Street in Downtown Bradenton. This fun, fabulous event will feature national recording artist and Bradenton Blues Festival participant, Dave "Biscuit" Miller.
Tickets for this fundraiser, benefiting the Women's Resource Center of Manatee ( http://www.wrcmanatee.org/ ), are $125 per person, including live entertainment, great food and a premium open bar.
Community development organization Realize Bradenton is excited that other events are blossoming around the Bradenton Blues Festival. Johnette Isham, Executive Director of Realize Bradenton said, "We are pleased to join with the Manatee Women's Resource Center in celebrating live blues music in downtown Bradenton."
Realize Bradenton ( http://www.realizebradenton.com/ ) believes that when non-profit organizations work together, great things happen.
All proceeds from "Bringing on the Blues" will benefit the Women's Resource Center of Manatee. The WRC serves over 4,000 women a year, and their mission is to provide programs and services to give women the tools they need to live their lives successfully.
"Bringing on the Blues", the 2012 fundraiser for the Women's Resource Center of Manatee will take place on Friday, November 30th, 2012 at 7:00 PM. Tickets for the benefit performance are $125 per person. For ticket sales, please visit the Women's Resource Center website at http://www.wrcmanatee.org
"Empower a Woman, Change a Life, Strengthen a Community"
Please contact Ashley Brown at 941-747-6797 for information on sponsorship opportunities for "Bringing on the Blues" and other events to support the Manatee Women's Resource Center.
About the Women's Resource Center:
The Women's Resource Center is the best place in Manatee County for women to discover their strengths, build their confidence and find their path to success. WRC is often the first stop or call people make when they are facing a new challenge, dealing with transition, feeling overwhelmed, or just needing information. The WRC provides women with a 'roadmap' so they can help themselves overcome current obstacles and move toward a more optimistic future. Each year, the WRC provides over 4,000 hours of programming; provides more than 2,000 referrals to dozens of local resources and has one on one conversations with over 1,500 women who walk in their doors looking for help. To learn more, visit the WRC web site at http://www.wrcmanatee.org
Please contact http://www.PressReleaseNation.com for corrections or updates.
Contact:
David Lockman
RichContent
9734 Lincoln Lane
Blaine, WA 98230
360.312.4312
dlock@richcontent.tv
http://www.RichContent.com
Veritas Prep and Application Boot Camp® Offer Dos and Don'ts to Help Students Set Themselves Apart and Maximize Their College Applications
Malibu, California, October 24, 2012 - With college admissions season in full swing, students nationwide are beginning to prepare their applications. While many of the academic elements like GPA, class rank and SAT score are set, one part of the application that students still exercise control over are the essays. To help students write competitive essays that will help get them noticed by admissions officers, Veritas Prep, the largest global provider of test prep and admissions consulting services, teamed up with Application Boot Camp®, America’s top college consulting firm, to offer ten tips students should follow as they draft their college application essays:
1) DO think of your essays as a collection – use each to explore a different layer of who you are and how you would enhance the student body.
2) DON’T discuss politics or religion, unless you’re coming from an academic perspective – the essays are not the place to take a stand on a personal issue.
3) DO show, DON’T tell – think hard before you overuse adjectives and adverbs; clearly communicate your strengths without using extraneous language.
4) DON’T focus on what you want to do, but rather on what you have already done – how have you gone above and beyond? What is your scholarly niche?
5) DO use an opening hook – start your college essay with something that will capture the admission officer’s attention and show why you stand out.
6) DON’T be a generalist, be a specialist – colleges and universities aren’t looking for well rounded students, they are looking for a well rounded student body. Show them where you stand out and how you complement the mix they are going for.
7) DO use details – unsubstantiated statements are quickly dismissed, so be sure to use supporting details to illustrate and elaborate on what you are saying.
8) DON’T use “SAT words” – admissions officers are unimpressed by those trying to show off their vocabulary, they much prefer clear, concise essays.
9) DO write “Why Paragraphs” – while they are not required, they are an excellent opportunity to show what you’ll bring and why you belong at a given school.
10) DON’T use clichés – clichés are the quickest way to come across as inauthentic and unexceptional.
“Each year admission at the top colleges and universities becomes more and more competitive and students need to maximize their applications to highlight the qualities and characteristics that admissions officers are looking for,” said Dr. Michele Hernández, former assistant director of admissions at Dartmouth College and one of the nation’s most sought after private admissions counselors. “Essays are the best way to become a 3D applicant, adding another dimension to what otherwise would be a profile made up of grades, activities and test scores, which are only part of the story. In their essays, students have an opportunity to jump off the page and showcase who they are as an applicant and a person.”
Nearly a decade ago, Dr. Hernández and award winning author and parenting expert Mimi Doe co-founded Application Boot Camp®, a four-day workshop that provides students with step-by-step advice on their college applications. Recently they partnered with Veritas Prep to launch Application Boot Camp® On Demand, which captures the same guidance and advice from the $14,000 in-person workshop and makes it available as an interactive, online program for only $750.
In addition to twelve self-paced sessions led by Dr. Hernández and Ms. Doe, the program features a library of quizzes and interactive exercises. To learn more about Application Boot Camp® On Demand and Veritas Prep, visit http://www.veritasprep.com/sat/college-application-boot-camp/.
About Veritas Prep
Veritas Prep is the world’s largest provider of test prep and admissions consulting services. It offers industry-leading programs to help applicants improve standardized test scores and gain admission to the world’s most selective universities. Founded in 2002 by graduates of the Yale School of Management, Veritas Prep offers its live classroom GMAT prep course in more than 90 cities worldwide and as an interactive online course available to students everywhere. Its Veritas Prep SAT 2400 course is available as a classroom course, live online, on demand or in private tutoring sessions and features the only zero risk, money back guarantee in the industry. In addition, Veritas Prep offers admissions consulting services for applicants seeking entry into competitive business schools, law schools, medical schools and other graduate programs. For more information, visit veritasprep.com.
Contact:
Lindsey Read
CSG PR
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
937 408 9321
lread@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com
London Self Defense, SAFE International Announces Latest Women’s Party Craze, London Women’s Self Defense Parties
London, ON, October 24, 2012 - (Straight Line PR) - London Self Defense, SAFE International Announces Latest Women’s Party Craze, London Women’s Self Defense Parties
SAFE International ™ is the leading provider of mobile women’s self defense training in Ontario. SAFE International has taught more than 150,000 women since 1994. SAFE International is announcing the latest party craze, London Women’s Self Defense Parties. SAFE International teaches how to address all aspects of violence, from the ideal outcome of avoiding violence completely, to the last resort of having to defend yourself physically. Many companies skip the avoidance strategies, but if one is truly interested in avoiding violence, it is critical to discuss. The questions that most women have about their own personal safety include:
* How can I avoid becoming a potential victim?
* What would I do if I was attacked on an elevator?
* How would I handle someone who approached me in an underground parking lot?
* Should I carry my purse over one shoulder or crossways?
* What should I say to a potential attacker to possibly stop him from attacking me?
* If I was home and I heard someone break into the house, where should I go, what should I do?
A SAFE International Women’s Self Defense Party addresses all those questions, plus many more.
One of the reasons that SAFE International enjoys teaching women’s self defense London, is how receptive women are to the concepts that the SAFE International instructors provide. SAFE International teaches self defense concepts, rather than techniques. This allows women to learn in a much shorter time. Women’s self defense can be learned in hours, not weeks or years. SAFE International is one of the few self defense companies who make humour an important part of the learning process. This allows everyone to feel relaxed and comfortable to share personal stories and ask questions. SAFE instructors cover the most common distraction techniques an attacker will use to gain an advantage. At a SAFE International London Self Defense Party they do not teach martial arts/karate, but rather, practical, effective, and memorable concepts over 4 hours.
Youtube Video - http://www.youtube.com/embed/wBdWr_kAUXE
Self Defense Parties, the Latest Party Craze
Invite up to 10 of your friends for a few hours of fun, education and potentially life- saving instruction. Plan a meal, bbq, snacks, maybe some dessert! Be prepared for a unique London Women’s Self Defense experience!
To contact SAFE International and Chris Roberts to schedule your Women’s Self Defense party, you can visit their main site at www.safeinternational.biz. You can also reach Chris Roberts toll free at 1-800-465-5972 or by email at chrisroberts@safeinternational.biz
Contact:
Chris Roberts
SAFE International™
15535 Cooper Rd.
Lunenburg, ON
Canada K0C 1R0
1 800 465-5972
chrisroberts@safeinternational.biz
http://www.safeinternational.biz
Kingston Self Defense, SAFE International Announces Latest Women’s Party Craze, Kingston Women’s Self Defense Parties
Kingston, ON, October 22, 2012 - (Straight Line PR) - Kingston Self Defense, SAFE International Announces Latest Women’s Party Craze, Kingston Women’s Self Defense Parties
SAFE International ™ is the leading provider of mobile women’s self defense training in Ontario. SAFE International has taught more than 150,000 women since 1994. SAFE International is announcing the latest party craze, Kingston Women’s Self Defense Parties. SAFE International teaches how to address all aspects of violence, from the ideal outcome of avoiding violence completely, to the last resort of having to defend yourself physically. Many companies skip the avoidance strategies, but if one is truly interested in avoiding violence, it is critical to discuss. The questions that most women have about their own personal safety include:
* How can I avoid becoming a potential victim?
* What would I do if I was attacked on an elevator?
* How would I handle someone who approached me in an underground parking lot?
* Should I carry my purse over one shoulder or crossways?
* What should I say to a potential attacker to possibly stop him from attacking me?
* If I was home and I heard someone break into the house, where should I go, what should I do?
A SAFE International Women’s Self Defense Party addresses all those questions, plus many more.
One of the reasons that SAFE International enjoys teaching women’s self defense Kingston, is how receptive women are to the concepts that the SAFE International instructors provide. SAFE International teaches self defense concepts, rather than techniques. This allows women to learn in a much shorter time. Women’s self defense can be learned in hours, not weeks or years. SAFE International is one of the few self defense companies who make humour an important part of the learning process. This allows everyone to feel relaxed and comfortable to share personal stories and ask questions. SAFE instructors cover the most common distraction techniques an attacker will use to gain an advantage. At a SAFE International Kingston Self Defense Party they do not teach martial arts/karate, but rather, practical, effective, and memorable concepts over 4 hours.
Youtube Video - http://www.youtube.com/embed/wBdWr_kAUXE
Self Defense Parties, the Latest Party Craze
Invite up to 10 of your friends for a few hours of fun, education and potentially life- saving instruction. Plan a meal, bbq, snacks, maybe some dessert! Be prepared for a unique Kingston Women’s Self Defense experience!
To contact SAFE International and Chris Roberts to schedule your Women’s Self Defense party, you can visit their main site at www.safeinternational.biz. You can also reach Chris Roberts toll free at 1-800-465-5972 or by email at chrisroberts@safeinternational.biz
Contact:
Chris Roberts
SAFE International™
15535 Cooper Rd.
Lunenburg, ON
Canada K0C 1R0
1 800 465-5972
chrisroberts@safeinternational.biz
http://www.safeinternational.biz
Leading Provider Of Retirement Income Solutions Addresses Urgent Planning Problem For Pre- And Post-Retirees
Topeka, KS, October 23, 2012 - Security Benefit Corporation, a Guggenheim Partners Company, today announced the rollout of its “Failure Is Not An Option” campaign, a program designed to help financial advisers and their clients generate more predictable income in retirement with less risk.
Executives at the firm, a leading provider of retirement savings and income vehicles for America’s retirees, say the campaign addresses an urgent need for new planning strategies that produce sustainable retirement income.
“It’s one thing to know that today’s retirement portfolios demand a smarter balance of growth and safety to effectively achieve a stream of lifetime income,” says Michael P. Kiley, Security Benefit Corporation’s Chief Executive Officer. “The challenge is finding solutions to that end.”
Security Benefit began preparing for the campaign in July when it commissioned Milliman, Inc., one of the world's largest independent actuarial and consulting firms, to conduct a study on income-product allocation. The firm plans to announce the full results of the research later in the month.
“It’s no secret that financial advisers are questioning traditional approaches to retirement planning,” says Kiley. ”We want to help these professionals find innovative and better ways to meet the challenge. The Milliman study tells us there are real solutions emerging in the form of improved strategies that promise to generate more income at less cost with less market risk.”
An integral part of the campaign will be the “Retirement Income Challenge” website. Specifically built for financial advisers, the site includes an “Income Calculator” and a sophisticated modeling tool designed to help optimize retirement income portfolios similar to the Modern Portfolio Theory approach.
Subsequent “Failure Is Not An Option” materials will include white papers, research reports and byline articles on securing income in retirement.
Security Benefit, backed by the superior general account management capabilities of Guggenheim Investments, a subsidiary of Guggenheim Partners, is uniquely positioned to bring fresh ideas to a vital market. With a comprehensive suite of retirement savings products, including both accumulation and income annuities, retirement plans, and mutual funds, the firm serves individual and institutional investors through a broad network of independent financial representatives.
Long committed to helping financial advisers meet their clients’ retirement needs, Security Benefit was the industry’s fourth-largest provider of fixed indexed annuities in the second quarter of 2012 according to Beacon Research.
About Security Benefit Corporation
Founded in 1892, Security Benefit Corporation, a Guggenheim Partners Company, is a leading provider of savings and income solutions for America's pre- and post-retirees. Security Benefit Corporation targets multiple wealth segments and channels of distribution through an independent, merit-based distribution structure. By leveraging Guggenheim's superior general account management capabilities into highly competitive products, Security Benefit Corporation focuses on the retirement savings market providing a full range of services to independent distributors including broker/dealers, IMOs, and other financial service providers. Security Benefit is indirectly controlled by Guggenheim Partners, LLC. To learn more about Security Benefit, visit www.securitybenefit.com.
For more information, please contact:
Dan Mahoney, Communications Strategy Group
(970) 405-8060
dmahoney@csg-pr.com
Michel’ Cole, Security Benefit Corporation
(785) 438-3396
Michel.cole@securitybenefit.com
In all states except New York, annuities are issued by Security Benefit Life Insurance Company (SBL). SBL is not authorized in and does not transact insurance business in New York.
Contact:
Dan Mahoney
Communications Strategy Group
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
(970) 405-8060
dmahoney@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com
A recent study claims that investors are still uncertain about market volatility but remain in the dark about alternative investments, which is disappointing, claims AAA.
Boston, MA, October 23, 2012 - A recent study claims that investors are still uncertain about market volatility but remain in the dark about alternative investments, which is disappointing, claims Alternative Asset Analysis (AAA).
The study was carried out by Natixis Global Asset Management and questioned more than 5,000 investors in 14 countries. It found that investors were generally more worried about the risk held within their portfolios and, therefore, took more and more notice of their advisers when making investment decisions. However, the study found that many investors are not realising the potential benefits of alternative investment as a tool for diversifying portfolios against risk.
Anthony Johnson of the alternative investment advocacy group, AAA, commented on the finding: “We think it’s a shame that investors are still missing out on the diversification opportunities offered by alternative asset classes like forestry, real estate, private equity and even precious metals and art.
“These kinds of alternatives are often less correlated with inflation and can grow in value when other, more traditional assets are seeing their values plummet.”
Forestry, for example, is being lauded as a great investment product as it offers flexibility for the investor, claims AAA. Anyone buying timberland has purchased growing trees that will continue to grow if timber prices are depressed. “Investors simply hang on to their investment and watch it physically grow if the market conditions aren’t right when they reach maturity,” added Johnson.
The study carried out by Natixis also found that fewer investors are confident that their investment portfolio will provide for them in retirement. In fact, the trend is more towards preserving capital than increasing returns. “This is even more of an argument for trying out alternative investment through companies like Greenwood Management that offer a risk-averse middle-term option that can protect portfolios form market crashes and the impact of changes in inflation,” concluded Mr Johnson.
Contact:
Anthony Johnson
Alternative Asset Analysis
71 Commercial St
Boston, MA 02109-1320
617-939-9596
info@alternativeassetanalysis.com
http://www.alternativeassetanalysis.com
Lucky Kat TV and North America’s leading Kindergarten – 12th grade motivational speaker, Retro Bill, have recently partnered to release a combination live action/animation DVD The 7 RIGHT ONs of Good Character.
Los Angeles, CA, October 23, 2012 - Lucky Kat TV and North America’s leading Kindergarten – 12th grade motivational speaker, Retro Bill, have recently partnered to release a combination live action/animation DVD The 7 RIGHT ONs of Good Character. This highly anticipated video is available for purchase at award winning children’s “edutainment” site luckykattv.com.
Lucky Kat TV’s plucky characters, Lucky Kat and Lexie Kat, shine alongside Retro Bill in the high-energy, attention-grabbing video that blends Retro Bill’s signature fast paced live action with animation. Together, the team illustrates the seven elements of good character; how to use these traits to navigate everyday situations and the importance of a positive attitude, owning their actions and never giving up! Practicing these traits help kids to refrain from bullying, respond to bullying, and make positive life choices:
Respect
Integrity
Golden Rule
Honesty
Tolerance
Own It!
Never Give Up!
In his trademark upbeat and high-energy style, Retro Bill moves between the worlds of live action and animation with Lucky & Lexie. Together, they bring to life The 7 RIGHT ONs of Good Character.
According to Retro Bill, “When I met the team at Lucky Kat TV it was creative kismet. We each deliver the same message of self-empowerment to children, and it’s always been my dream to blend live action with animation. I think parents, teachers, coaches and mentors alike will find the tools we offer to be helpful in their continued effort to promote self-esteem, safety and cooperation in kids!”
Retro Bill - the alter ego of writer, producer and director Bill Russ - delivers a powerful message to children across the nation - dreams do come true. Taking his high-energy anthem on the road some 300 days each year across the U.S. and Canada, Retro Bill speaks to millions of children and parents about physical and online safety, bullying, and self-esteem.
“The epidemic of bullying across our communities and schools has rightfully garnered national attention. We believe building strong character in our children is the first step in prevention, and Retro Bill’s unique style connects with kids in a meaningful way. He never patronizes them, and instead illustrates how to enlist help and embrace their own better instincts to stay safe and healthy,” said Lucky Kat TV’s Tammy Schroeder.
Lucky Kat TV.com is an edutainment gaming and video website designed to entertain children in a safe and creative environment. Reinforcing fundamental academics based on educational Standards, the activities and games featured on Lucky Kat TV.com empower critical thinking skills in children ages 5 - 11. Kids are encouraged to unleash the power of their imaginations and create video content to share with other Lucky Kat TV.com fans. In 2012, Lucky Kat TV.com was awarded the coveted Parent Tested Parent Approved (PTPA) seal of approval and Mom’s Choice Award. Visit Lucky Kat TV online at http://www.luckykattv.com.
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
Urban Barns Foods Inc. (URBF.QB) ("Company" or "Urban Barns "), a leading authority on Cubic Farming, for fresh green leafy vegetables
Vancouver, British Columbia, Oct. 23, 2012 -- Urban Barns Foods Inc. (URBF.QB) ("Company" or "Urban Barns "), a leading authority on Cubic Farming, for fresh green leafy vegetables, announced today that we have accepted subscriptions for a total of $260,000 at .01 cent and an additional $50,000 at .025 cents.
The Company is currently in discussions with several institutional and high net worth investors to finance the Company's first facility for commercial production of locally grown vegetables to be located on the West Island of Montreal. The Company has budgeted $2 Million US for the purchase and construction of some 44 Cubic Farming™ machines. Forty of these machines are for commercial production and four machines are for research and development (R&D) initiatives. The additional R&D machines will compliment the existing five machines in the Langley, British Columbia facility.
It is contemplated that each new R&D machine will be housed in a separate enclosure with appropriate room controls. The Company's initial objectives for these new research machines will be to reduce the growing cycle from the current 35 days and to increase the types of products the company can grow and offer to its future clients.
It is expected to take between 3 to 4 months to contract and build the machines including various leasehold improvements from the date of the closing of the financing.
Mr. Meikleham, Chairman and CFO, stated, "On behalf of the board I am pleased with the progression of our financing initiatives."
About Urban Barns Foods Inc.
Urban Barns uses patent pending proprietary equipment to produce affordable vegetables in a secure and controlled indoor environment. By setting up subsidiary facilities and growing locally, Urban Barns can focus on supplying any community, irrespective of the regional climate, effectively reducing shipping times and related spoilage costs. Urban Barns has the unique ability to scale and cater to the demands of all major communities. Our commitment to our consumers is reflected through our motto, "Purely Fresh, Naturally Tasty, and Completely Healthy." www.urbanbarns.com and www.urbanbarnsfoods.com are registered trademarks and Cubic Farming and Cubic Agriculture are copyright of Urban Barns Foods Inc. All other company and product names mentioned are used only for identification purposes and may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.
Forward-Looking Statements:
Except for historical information contained herein, the matters set forth above may be forward-looking statements that involve certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those in the forward-looking statements. Words such as "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "intend" and similar expressions, as they relate to Urban Barns or its management, identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on the current beliefs of management, as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to management. Actual results could differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors such as the level of business and consumer spending, the amount of sales of Urban Barns ' products, the competitive environment within the industry, the ability of Urban Barns to continue to expand its operations, the level of costs incurred in connection with Urban Barns ' expansion efforts, economic conditions in the industry and the financial strength of Urban Barns ' customers and suppliers. Urban Barns does not undertake any obligation to update such forward-looking statements. Investors are also directed to consider all other risks and uncertainties.
Suzanne Holbrook
Contact
Urban Barns Foods
7170 Glover Road
Milner, BC, Canada
V0X 1T0
Phone: 403-454-4022
Fax: 604-681-4760
ir@urbanbarnsfoods.com
http://www.urbanbarns.com
Global IT innovator, Netkiller, in partnership with Google Apps and Postini web services, recently announced their new campaign to implement Apps for Education for qualified schools at minimal cost for the service.
San Jose, CA, October 23, 2012 - Global IT innovator, Netkiller, in partnership with Google Apps and Postini web services, recently announced their new campaign to implement Apps for Education for qualified schools at minimal cost for the service.
Sixty of the United State’s top one hundred universities have already implemented Apps for Education, a free service carrying an annual value of $50 for businesses. Over twenty million accounts have been established where institutions have met the proper guidelines (i.e. non-profit; accredited), and with Netkiller, the conversion is easier than ever.
Netkiller’s new service offers to move necessary data and manage the process, archiving the entirety of a school or businesses onto the Google cloud. Gmail’s email platform is powerful and user-friendly, and convoluted documentation often prevents businesses from getting the job done. Netkiller’s support team is not only experienced in the field, they are a preferred Northern California partner and have worked with Google since 2008.
Key services at Netkiller range from support to the secure management of data from email servers, such as exchange servers like Zimbra or Exchange Server, to Google Apps, with the capacity to meet any google-related issue within 24 hours. Also, when a school joins Postini or Vault, every general email and attachment is assimilated into a “cloud” database—one searchable, isolated inbox.
From the cloud, your inbox capacity spans further than the imagination (without any additional cost for hardware), while further securing the privacy of its contents. The cloud allows for companies and businesses to mesh together like never before. Netkiller gives incentives for educational institutes on the cloud to work together and grow, with pure google apps solutions like Shared Contact (NSC) services.
For example, The NSC interface allows for expansion in contact sharing to manage: faculty, staff, students’ parents, and even alumni contacts, with the same system as student contacts, while restricting student users’ access to the shared-contacts list.
For more information on Netkiller’s services, Google Apps for education, and much more, visit the Netkiller website.
About Netkiller America, Inc.
Netkiller enables users to perform business activities on the cloud with heightened collaborative capabilities.
Using shared contacts on the cloud, users can simplify complex document workflows with a global, collaborative system, including workflows that include customers and partners.
All data is stored in Google’s Global Datacenters, which encrypt and distribute data in small pieces; this structure ensures both security, and global accessibility.
Netkiller products and custom Enterprise projects are open source; they make use of an A-GPL, which allows for a transparent development process and continuous upgrades by global developers.
CEO Interview at June/2012. – “Hi, I’m Justin, the CEO and founder of Netkiller. We provide collaborational software to enables users to perform business activities on the cloud with global accessbility.
Netkiller document workflow can simplify and automate complex document process for collaboration. Netkiller Sharing contacts and invitation management help organazation to collaborate efficiently with partner and customers.
Contact:
Harry Jung
Netkiller America Inc.
2033 Gateway Place, Ste 500
San Jose, CA 95110
(408) 641-0114
harryj@netkiller.com
http://www.netkiller.com
The statement from Greenpeace’s Bustar Maitar called for APP to make a firm commitment not to use rainforest timber. This follows reports that APP had teamed up with Swiss NGO, The Forest Trust, to try to improve the sustainability of its supply chain.
