Former Wrestler Propels Parati Competitive Rowing to a new level of Discipline and Success

Members of a very successful Woodlands rowing team never dreamed that a former D1 wrestler could lead them to the medals podium.

The Woodlands, TX, May 08, 2013 - Members of a very successful Woodlands rowing team never dreamed that a former D1 wrestler could lead them to the medals podium. At first glance, wrestling and rowing seem to have little in common. But Mike Rosman, head coach of Parati Competitive Rowing, credits his Big Ten NCAA wrestling career for his success in coaching crew.

As Mike explains, “Wrestling is a much more complicated sport than rowing; in wrestling you must be on offense while reacting to your opponent’s moves. Wrestlers must be flexible, strong, and have a very high pain tolerance. Rowing is more of a finesse sport. Mechanically, rowing simply requires mastery of a stroke. Sounds easy, but the key to rowing success is repeating that stroke throughout an entire race without losing form or speed. This is where my wrestling training kicks in. I know how to build strength, endurance, and mental discipline into my athletes so they can push through the pain in competition and maintain effective technique. The measure of success is not how precise your first strokes are, but how fast and efficient you are at the finish line.”

To that end, Coach Mike incorporates many aspects of full body fitness into Parati’s year round training schedule. The athletes in this Woodlands rowing club embrace high intensity cardio work-outs and weight lifting in addition to endurance rowing sessions. Rowers use ergs, stationery rowing machines, to increase conditioning and compete on land against teammates. Blade work refines rowing technique on the water and demands mental focus and repetition.

So how does Coach Mike motivate his athletes to maintain such a strong work ethic?

According to Mike, it’s simple; “I train alongside my rowers. They know I am willing to work as hard as they are, and I am a lot older! Again, this is where my wrestling background serves me well as a coach. I am in great shape and mentally tough – I do not quit. I lead by example.”

Rosman’s philosophy is paying off. In its inaugural year as a club, Parati Competitive Rowing is already the most successful youth rowing club in The Woodlands.

But it’s more than just rowing according to all the members. Coach Mike sums up the club’s attitude; “Parati is more than just a team; we are a family. We work hard, but we also have a lot of fun together. It’s easier to go that extra mile in training when you are in the company of friends.”

Media Contact:
Parati Competitive Rowing
info@paratirowingthewoodlands.org
111 Wind Ridge Circle
The Woodlands, Texas 77381
http://paratirowingthewoodlands.org
832-510-6288

About Parati Competitive Rowing:
Parati Competitive Rowing is a non-profit Club team located in The Woodlands, Texas. We are a co-ed youth sculling team that trains rigorously year round and competes at local, regional, and national levels.

Contact:
Parati Competitive Rowing
111 Wind Ridge Circle
The Woodlands, Texas 77381
832-510-6288
info@paratirowingthewoodlands.org
http://paratirowingthewoodlands.org

Rita Kotecha, Independent Marketing Consultant from the UK Reveals the “Best Affiliate Marketing Program of 2013.”

Rita Kotecha, Independent Marketing Consultant, Rita Kotecha, has undergone some of the most awesome online business training in the marketing world.

London, UK, May 03, 2013 - Rita Kotecha, Independent Marketing Consultant, Rita Kotecha, has undergone some of the most awesome online business training in the marketing world. Reporting the latest “Best Affiliate Marketing Program of 2013”, which teaches learnings to create a passive income using a proven simple business model.

Kotecha;’s experience in the Marketing Industry for many years now has given her much insight to what is the “Best Affiliate Marketing Program of 2013”. After studying, monitoring and testing, she strongly advises consideration of important aspects before starting any business, bearing in mind, the challenges of huge learning curves and implementing to see what actually works and what doesn’t.

Kotecha outlines the common mistakes made when starting an online business:

1. Wrong Mindset Success:
The most important thing Rita recommends is work on your mindset for success. Success being business success or life success. From young age onwards one's mind programming depends alot on the outcome of our lives. “The fastest way to become successful in any business endeavour is to follow the lead of those leaders already achieving the results desired, hence consider “Best Affiliate Marketing Program of 2013”, to date.

2. Involving Themselves in The Wrong Business:
Having the correct system is inevitable together with understanding, resonating and becoming passionate about your work. Without this, the chances of success are very low.

3. Don’t Join The Right Community:
Picking the right community for your business is very important to support you. Alot of people in this world are stuck in this mindset that going out to work on a 9-5 job is the way to work only.

Therefore a community is the glue that helps to reach one’s vision and goals. They are the glue that provide support and empowers those that are part of the family and embrace the journey of an entrepreneur becoming their passion also. Rita strongly recommends the “Best Affiliate Marketing Program of 2013”.

4. No Website Ready:
Technical and design skills are not had by all. Therefore by joining a ready-made plug in system, helps succeed faster.

5. Small Commissions, and Small Sales Funnel:
A high conversion strong sales funnel which does all the selling for you will build an income fast together with high commissions.

Introducing a Phenomenal Business that Gives you Time and Financial Freedom and Development Towards your Mindset Growth

Enpower Network, “Best Affiliate Marketing Program of 2013 http://www.workwithritakotecha.info

Rita Kotecha is available at her marketing lab by telephone at: Mobile: +44 (0) 7545 556 409 Skype @ritakotecha20 Email: justgetallin@gmail.com

Distributed By Straight Line PR.

Contact:
Rita Kotecha
Empower Network, LLC
London, UK
+44 (0) 7545 556 409
justgetallin@gmail.com
http://www.workwithritakotecha.info

Wine, Women and Wealth Feature on Deanne Demarco’s Radio Show

Host Deanne DeMarco interviews special guests Master of Wine Jennifer Simonetti-Bryan and financial expert Stephanie Skaggs on Thursday’s episode of “Today’s Inspiring Women.” Noon Pacific on VoiceAmerica Empowerment Network.

Hillside, IL, May 05, 2013 – Wine, women and wealth is a winning combination in the next episode of Deanne DeMarco’s high energy show, “Today’s Inspiring Women.”

Deanne DeMarco’s guests next Thursday, May 9, for her weekly program on the VoiceAmerica Empowerment Radio network, are two inspiring women from the worlds of wine and finance.

During the hour-long broadcast DeMarco, who has herself enjoyed twenty years of success as a career coach and entrepreneur, will interview Master of Wine Jennifer Simonetti-Bryan and financial expert Stephanie Skaggs.

Jennifer Simonetti-Bryan is the fourth woman and among only 30 people in the U.S. to attain the distinguished title “Master of Wine,” the highest global achievement in the wine industry. She is the author of The One Minute Wine Master: Discover 10 Wines You’ll Like in 60 Seconds or Less as well a culinary textbook. She is also the author and host of five “Everyday Guide” DVD series on wine and spirits. Jennifer frequently appears on national television including NBC’s Today Show, Fox News, Fox Business Channel and Anderson Cooper.

Deanne DeMarco will be exploring Jennifer’s path to success in this male-dominated field, discovering how she managed to switch careers, walk away from a 6 figure salary and what lessons can be learned for other women. She will also want to know if it’s true that women have a more sensitive sense of taste and smell.

Stephanie Skaggs is an entrepreneur, business owner, financing specialist, mortgage professional and real estate investor. Over the past 16 years she has started 11 companies either by herself or with partners. As president of Asset Financing Group, Inc. she specializes in small business financing and commercial mortgages. She has helped more than 150 business owners and entrepreneurs obtain financing. Her expertise includes all things financial—both personal and commercial.

Deanne DeMarco will particularly want to know if there are financing opportunities and strategies tailored for women entrepreneurs. She will be asking Stephanie for her insights into starting and bankrolling a business; what you need to know to avoid the pitfalls and become your own success story.

Deanne DeMarco herself has used her innovative strategies—drawn from successful experiences as a scientist, college instructor, management trainer, Fortune 500 manager, author and entrepreneur—to help business executives and individuals break through personal and career roadblocks.

DeMarco says, “Each week I introduce extraordinary and inspiring women who may not yet be household names but are business and entrepreneurial rising stars. Jennifer and Stephanie are leading the way in their respective fields. I’m thrilled to have them on the same show. Wine and Wealth. What a winning combination.”

“Today’s Inspiring Women” airs Thursdays at noon Pacific on the VoiceAmerica Empowerment Radio. www.voiceamerica.com/show/2182/todays-inspiring-women

About The Host:
Deanne DeMarco’s career has revolved around helping people break through boundaries and career roadblocks. She is a career coach and has a strong business background with expertise in medicine, education and utilities. As a medical scientist she was on the original three-member team that first discovered the cancer link to second-hand smoke (published in the Lancet). As a corporate trainer her management coaching program won national recognition from Training Magazines Top 100. For more than 20 years she has helped managers and individuals advance their careers. Today, she continues her work as an executive and individual coach. She conducts fun, interactive workshops and seminars and is a keynote speaker at business and association meetings around the world. For more information please visit: www.deannedemarco.com or call 1-708-836-0118 or 1-866-91-COACH.

Contact:
Deanne DeMarco
Deanne DeMarco
2205 S. Wolf Road #730
Suite 304
Hillside, Illinois 60162
708-836-0118
Deanne@DeanneDeMarco.com
http://www.deannedemarco.com

AuraPortal Cloud Presented at the "Cloud Computing World Expo" in Paris

AuraPortal Cloud is AuraPortal's commitment to managing business activities in the Cloud.

Boca Raton, Florida, May 05, 2013 – AURA (www.auraportal.com), a global provider of Business Process Management (BPM) software, has announced that the 'Cloud Computing World Expo' celebrated in Paris on April 10 and 11, was the venue chosen by AuraPortal to introduce this innovative technology proposal, which is focused on the management of business activities from the 'Cloud'.

The AuraPortal software has recently been distinguished by the independent market analysis firm Ovum in its Decision Matrix 2011 report as the most advanced BPM in the market.

AuraPortal Cloud offers services over the Internet, giving entities of any size the possibility to work with a software application with no technological structure expenditure, and with minimum investment and no risk.

The event featured two lectures on Cloud Computing delivered by the Director of Operations of the company, Olivia Trilles, who stated, "AuraPortal´s aim is to provide solutions to customer needs, so the launch of AuraPortal Cloud formed an important part of our 'roadmap'."

AuraPortal Cloud can be used in different modes: SaaS (Software as a Service), BPaaS (Business Process as a Service) and PaaS (Platform as a Service), according to the needs of each customer. It also accepts connections with several platforms, including Azure from Microsoft and directly via 'hosting' supplied by the AuraPortal Partner channel.

"AuraPortal was a pioneer in offering a BPM Suite that was 100% web-based right from its very beginnings," said Olivia Trilles. "It was also the only (and continues to be the only) system that allowed users to make any desired modifications, as well as design the company workflows from scratch, without a single line of programming code nor the need for specialized personnel. We now offer all this from the Cloud, with all its advantages.'

About Aura (http://www.auraportal.com)
AURA is a global BPM (Business Process Management) software 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.

AURA has a presence in 50 countries with more than 500 customers including, among others: Toyota, General Motors, Pemex (Petróleos Mexicanos), Carrefour, ArcelorMittal, PepsiCo, Coca-Cola, Scotiabank, Danone, Sodexo, Kimberly-Clark, Yamaha, Eletrobras, Royal KPN, Bristol-Myers Squibb, etc., as well as many Government Agencies and Departments in several countries.

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

Contact:
John Charles
AuraPortal
2255 Glades Rd, Suite 324 A
Boca Raton, FL 33431
+1 (857) 239-0070
John.charles@auraportal.com
http://www.auraportal.com

Boy Scouts of America’s (BSA) Grand Canyon Council Appoints Black Dog Promotions CEO To 2014 Scout-O-Rama Executive Committee

The Boy Scouts of America’s Grand Canyon Council announced that it has appointed Black Dog Promotions CEO Scott Kelly to the 2014 Scout-O-Rama Executive committee.

Phoenix, AZ, May 03, 2013 - The Boy Scouts of America’s Grand Canyon Council announced that it has appointed Black Dog Promotions CEO Scott Kelly to the 2014 Scout-O-Rama Executive committee. Kelly will be responsible for coordinating publicity, entertainment, event promotion and sponsorships.

On Saturday February 22, 2014 over 10,000 scouts and their families will converge on the lawns outside of the University of Phoenix Stadium. Scout-O-Rama is a showcase of the best that scouting has to offer and features hundreds of scout run booths, activities and entertainment.

Ty Page, Program Director of the Grand Canyon Council, commented on the selection of Kelly, “Scott’s dedication to promoting character, citizenship, and fitness in today’s youth is impressive. We are honored to have the CEO of one of Arizona’s premier marketing firms on our Scout-O-Rama executive committee.”

“My boys have been in scouts for years and my oldest will soon become Eagle Scout so when I was asked to support the council's showcase event I jumped at the opportunity. I am looking forward to making the 2014 Scout-O-Rama a huge success” said Kelly.

For information regarding Scout-O-Rama or the Grand Canyon Council of Boy Scouts of America, visit: http://www.grandcanyonbsa.org

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

Insurance King Decatur IL Quote Hotline 217-615-7603

Insurance King is making it easier to save money on car insurance for residents in the Decatur, Illinois area.

Decatur, IL May 03, 2013 - Insurance King Decatur IL Quote Hotline 217-615-7603. Insurance King is making it easier to save money on car insurance for residents in the Decatur, Illinois area. Visit http://www.insurancekingquote.com or call the hotline setup for Decatur IL and the surrounding are at 217-615-7603 after hours and weekend service is available.

Insurance King has been serving the Northern IL and Southern Wisconsin Regions as well as Indiana, New Mexico, Iowa, Ohio, and Mississippi. Insurance King will be offering car liability insurance with rates as low as $29 for down payments. Insurance King also will be offering Ful Coverage, Motorcycle, and Renters Insurance for people in the Decatur area. Please note that rates vary by age, sex, zip code, driving records, and vehicles.

“People have been contacting us and can’t figure out how we are so much cheaper than everyone else. The answer is simple says Dan Block founder of Insurance King; We already have a system setup and the only expense is advertising which is made up with the sales of new policies. So we are passing on the savings to our clients by not charging agency fees for new business in new marketed areas.”

To get a quote fill out the form at http://www.insurancekingquote.com or call the Decatur IL hotline at 217-615-7603.

Contact:
Dan Block
Insurance King
127 N. Alpine Rd.
Rockford, IL 61107
217-615-7603
dan@insurancekingquote.com
http://www.insurancekingquote.com

AssaysLightning-Link® In-licensing Deal Enhances ImmunoReagents’ Product Offering to the Diagnostic Industry

ImmunoReagents, the global manufacturer of high quality antibody products to the diagnostic and research industry, has entered into a non-exclusive in-licensing deal to use Innova Biosciences (Cambridge, UK) Lightning-Link® technology for commercial purposes.

Cambridge, UK, May 02, 2013 - ImmunoReagents, the global manufacturer of high quality antibody products to the diagnostic and research industry, has entered into a non-exclusive in-licensing deal to use Innova Biosciences (Cambridge, UK) Lightning-Link® technology for commercial purposes.

Through the commercialisation deal, ImmunoReagents will utilise Innova’s technology for the manufacture of antibody conjugates, taking advantage of the very rapid Lightning-Link conjugation protocol that offers 100% yield with enhanced sensitivity in comparison to traditional methods. Such tools are critical to the diagnostic industry; the licensing deal will allow ImmunoReagents to provide enhanced products to facilitate technology development, whilst simultaneously maintaining an effective supply chain when the diagnostic kits are launched into the market place.

Commenting on the agreement ImmunoReagent’s CEO, Dr Ann Black, said, “ImmunoReagents is constantly searching for new technologies to improve our product base and we are pleased to incorporate Innova’s Lighting-Link technology for antibody conjugation.”

Dr Andy Lane, Executive Director at Innova Biosciences, said, “This deal is a perfect example of how Lightning-Link is increasingly being used by high quality manufacturers to both maximise efficiency and increase their product offerings.”

About ImmunoReagents Inc
ImmunoReagents is a leading global manufacturer of quality antibodies and reagents used in research and in vitro diagnostics. They offer a wide range of secondary antibodies covering a broad spectrum of immunoglobulins from various species. ImmunoReagents also provides custom manufacturing to meet specific customer requirements while adhering to cGMP guidelines and ISO quality systems requirements. The Company is located on NCSU’s Centennial Campus, a 1000 acre advanced technology community for university, government and industrial partners. For more information, please see www.immunoreagents.com.

About Innova Biosciences Limited
Innova Biosciences is a growing, dynamic, ISO 9001:2008 business based in Cambridge, UK. At the core of Innova's business are the Lightning-Link®, InnovaCoat® and Thunder-Link® technologies, which simplify the production of antibody-based reagents. The expanding portfolio is sold to research laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology companies and diagnostic companies worldwide. Innova Biosciences invites anyone with an interest in antibody labeling, flow cytometry, lateral flow assays or any lightning link products to please visit the website at http://www.innovabiosciences.com.

Contact:
Mathew Taylor
Director
Algorythm Solutions Ltd
10 Torkington St, Stamford
Lincolnshire PE9 2UY
+44 (0)773 403 2112
mtaylor@algorythmsolutions.com
http://www.algorythmsolutions.com

Gorham Paper and Tissue Positioned as Success Story on CBS Evening News

New Hampshire based specialty paper business featured on CBS Evening News as a success story linked with the release of Q1 GDP numbers, reporting a 23% increase in sales volume year-over-year

Gorham, New Hampshire, April 30, 2013 - The migration of Gorham Paper and Tissue from a shuttered paper mill to a viable tissue, towel and specialty paper operation with over 200 employees and demonstrated sales growth was featured on the CBS Nightly News (April 26, 2013). The segment highlighted a 23% increase in year-over-year sales volume for Gorham due to an enhanced energy platform, newly installed state-of-the-art tissue machine and sharpened focus on delivering highly engineered products for demanding niche applications.

“We epitomize a good news story. With the support of Patriarch Partners and the hard work of our employees, we are transforming our business day-by-day. Gorham started operating in 1852 and has progressively built a legacy of expertise in producing challenging technical papers. Until recently that unique capability was overshadowed by an uncompetitive cost structure,” said Dick Arnold, President and CEO. “By optimizing our energy platform and anchoring our business to the stability and growth of the towel and tissue markets, we can focus on capturing market share in the specialty papers market.”

In the specialty arena, Gorham manufactures a tremendous range of papers that includes bags, pouches, wraps and liners for food packaging, substrates engineered with application-specific technical properties such as flame retardance, absorbency or light fastness and versatile high-yield converting grades.

Brian McAlary, Vice President of Sales and Marketing added, “Maintaining a strong tissue and towel business is the backbone of our strategic plan with our specialty paper business serving as a key contributor to our success. We are poised for growth with some of the most flexible equipment in the industry, our extensive experience in barrier coating technology and a business model built around customization. The market is telling us we have targeted the right micro-segments with a solid service and product platform. Given the changing market dynamics, it should be a great year for Gorham.”

Patriarch Partners purchased Gorham in May of 2011 looking for vertical integration with another forest products portfolio company, Old Town Fuel and Fiber. The two operations deliver synergy as Old Town manufactures the primary raw material (pulp) required to make paper and represents a secure source of supply for Gorham.

A link to the CBS Evening News segment is available on the Gorham website.

About Gorham Paper and Tissue:
Gorham targets niche technical markets with a broad portfolio of custom-engineered Specialty Packaging, Converting, Engineered and Printing Papers in addition to Tissue and Towel. Using scale and leanness as an advantage, the company challenges industry convention with its manufacturing flexibility, product development lead times and go-to-market strategy.

In May 2011, the Gorham facility was acquired with support from investment funds managed by Patriarch Partners, LLC (Patriarch). Patriarch is a private equity firm and holding company managing 75 companies across 14 industry sectors with revenues in excess of $8 billion.

Founded by Lynn Tilton in 2000, Patriarch focuses on the acquisition and invigoration of undervalued iconic American brands where time, capital and sound strategy can rescue a business and restore its value, creating and preserving jobs in America. Under Ms. Tilton's leadership, Patriarch has become the largest woman-owned business in America with companies in its platform providing employment to more than 120,000 persons.

Contact:
Pam Miller
Gorham Paper and Tissue
72 Cascade Flats
Gorham, NH 03581
603-342-2000
pam.miller@gorhampat.com
http://www.gorhampt.com

Blue Asset Management LLC Offers Rahway New Jersey Commercial Property for Sale

Wayne-based Blue Asset Management LLC is offering an app. 8,000 square foot commercial building for sale located in the redeveloping downtown area cof Rahway, New Jersey.

Rahway, NJ, April 30, 2013 -(Straight Line PR)- Wayne-based Blue Asset Management LLC is offering an app. 8,000 square foot commercial building for sale located in downtown Rahway,, New Jersey.

Charles Blumenkehl, CEO of Blue Asset Management LLC, said “We are offering a unique opportunity for an operator or re-developer to leverage the ongoing revitalization of the prime downtown district.” The property is located in the downtown district, across from the Rahway train station.

Beginning in the early 1990s and continuing through the present day, the City of Rahway has rebounded as its downtown has seen the construction of new restaurants, art galleries, market-rate housing and the old Rahway Theatre reopening as the Union County Performing Arts Center. The theater underwent a $6.2-million renovation and expansion project, completed in 2007.

Blumenkehl continued, “While we see a tremendous opportunity to benefit by the continued strengthening of the region, we have determined that this particular opportunity is outside our fund parameters, and are offering it at a deep discount to market value.”

The property is being marketed by Joni Sweetwood and Julie Gralla of Kislak Realty who can be contacted at 732 750-3000 for more information about the property. For more information about Blue Asset Management LLC, log onto the company website at www.blueassetmanagementllc.com or contact the company directly at 973 835-1400.

Distribution By Straight Line PR (http://www.straightlinepr.com)

Contact:
Gail Cherenson
Blue Asset Management LLC
2282 Hamburg Tpke,
Wayne, NJ 07470
973 835-1400
cblue@bluerealty.com
http://www.blueassetmanagementllc.com

Ecotech Institute’s Power Utility Technician Program Addresses Growing Need for Talent in the Sector

More than 10,200 Power Utility Jobs were Available in the Last Year; Industry Insiders See Looming Talent Gap

Denver, Colorado, April 29, 2013 – The Power Utility industry is experiencing a massive demographic shift and employees who know both conventional grid and smart grid technology are in demand. With a growing number of retirees and new technologies cropping up, a new generation of power utility technicians is critical for the industry. Ecotech Institute, which focuses entirely on preparing students for jobs in sustainability, has been closely watching the rapidly changing sector and its Power Utility Technician program exists to fill the gap.

Ecotech Institute designed its Power Utility Technician program with input from subject matter experts who have more than 55 years of combined utility experience and know first-hand where the industry is headed. The two-year program prepares graduates for careers in power generation, with specialization in power plant operations and maintenance. Students receive immersive and hands-on training that focuses on electric utility distribution systems, grid and smart grid.

A few job titles that correlate with the Power Utility Technician program include Systems Operator, Power Plant Operator, Hydroelectric-Station Operator and Turbine Operator. According to Ecotech Institute’s Clean Jobs Index, there were 10,265 jobs advertised in the last year (March 2012 to March 2013) that match the skills taught in Ecotech’s Power Utility Technician program.

"The power utility workforce is facing changes as many utility workers are retiring and new talent is becoming vital," says Alden Zeitz, Manager of Renewable Energy Services with Iowa Lakes Electric Cooperative. “A new generation of power utility specialists that understands the grid but also grasps the concepts and application of new energy sources is critical."

Upon successful completion of the Power Utility Technician program, graduates will be prepared to:

* Apply the fundamentals of power generation, so they can operate and maintain power plants;

* Use their knowledge of high voltage systems to maintain and operate grid infrastructure, smart grids, and distribution systems;

* Use the fundamentals of electrical theory and related knowledge to design, build, repair, calibrate and modify electrical components, circuitry, controls and machinery;

* Meet industry standards within the electrical engineering, power production and distribution fields.

In addition to the Power Utility program, Ecotech Institute offers the following:

* Solar Energy Technology, Associate of Applied Science

* Wind Energy Technology, Associate of Applied Science

* Renewable Energy Technology, Associate of Applied Science

* Energy Efficiency Program, Associate of Applied Science

* Electrical Energy Technology, Associate of Applied Science

* Business Administration – Sustainability, Associate of Applied Science

About Ecotech Institute
Ecotech Institute is the first and only college entirely focused on preparing America’s workforce for careers in renewable energy and sustainability and is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges. Launched in April 2010 in Denver, Colorado, it offers six highly practical renewable energy degree programs that provide graduates with skills valued by today’s alternative renewable energy employers. Classes start once per quarter and applications are always accepted. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify. Ecotech Institute is a division of Education Corporation of America. For more information about Ecotech Institute, visit ecotechinstitute.com or call 877-326-5576.

Contact:
Jenny Foust
Communications Strategy Group
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, Colo 80206
303-433-7020
jfoust@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

Colorado HealthOP Receives License and Becomes Colorado’s First Statewide Nonprofit Health Insurance Cooperative

Colorado HealthOP Approved to Offer Consumer Operated and Oriented Health Insurance Beginning October 1

Denver, Colo, April 29, 2013 — Colorado HealthOP, Colorado’s first statewide nonprofit health insurance cooperative, announced today that it has received a Certificate of Authority to provide health insurance from the Colorado Division of Insurance. This establishes Colorado HealthOP as an official health insurance plan, and authorizes Colorado HealthOP to provide affordable, quality coverage to individuals and employers in Colorado communities.

To earn licensure in Colorado, an insurance provider must undergo a rigorous review process to determine its potential for longevity. The Colorado Division of Insurance evaluates the organization’s business plan and financial solvency, as well as the background of its executive team and board members.

The CO-OP, which was sponsored by the Rocky Mountain Farmers Union Educational and Charitable Foundation, will provide a variety of health insurance options for individuals and employers in both urban and rural communities across Colorado. In its first year of operations, Colorado HealthOP will offer a statewide provider network that is as robust as those offered by other insurers.

Enrollment will begin October 1, 2013, to coincide with the availability of Connect for Health Colorado, the state’s online health insurance marketplace. Coverage will begin January 1, 2014. Plans will be available on the marketplace, through a network of brokers and agents, and on Colorado HealthOP’s website at www.COHealthOP.org. Subsidies and financial assistance may be available through Connect for Health Colorado for individuals who qualify.

“We appreciate the Colorado Division of Insurance’s vote of confidence in Colorado HealthOP and its unique model,” said Julia Hutchins, chief executive officer of Colorado HealthOP. “We want to make healthcare better in Colorado, and licensure advances our ability to deliver affordable, quality coverage to individuals interested in making a difference in their own health and that of their community.”

Colorado HealthOP gives members a voice in the CO-OP’s operations, including what is covered under its benefit plans. When Colorado HealthOP’s revenues exceed its costs, the surplus will be reinvested to directly benefit members—through lower premiums, expanded benefits and quality improvements. The CO-OP is committed to promoting health as a way of life and will reward its members for healthy behaviors.

“Colorado HealthOP is a unique, consumer-driven solution,” said U.S. Senator Michael Bennet of Colorado. “Increased competition in the health insurance marketplace – particularly as the marketplace comes online in October – can only benefit Colorado. Greater access to new options will help individuals, families and employers choose plans that better suit their specific needs.”

With a local perspective and community focus, Colorado HealthOP is dedicated to partnering with doctors, hospitals, brokers and advocates statewide to create benefits and programs that will improve health at the local level. Beginning in May 2013, Colorado HealthOP will begin outreach activities in both English and Spanish to educate the community about their health insurance rights, provide tools for navigating Colorado’s insurance marketplace, and offer resources to help individuals and employers choose the best insurance option for them.

For more information about Colorado HealthOP, please visit www.COHealthOP.org.

About Colorado HealthOP
Colorado HealthOP offers a new alternative to traditional health insurance in Colorado. A nonprofit health insurance cooperative, Colorado HealthOP and its members are committed to providing affordable, quality coverage to individuals and employers interested in making a difference in their own health, their employees’ health and the health of their community. Colorado HealthOP, which was sponsored by the Rocky Mountain Farmers Union Educational and Charitable Foundation, aims to improve health outcomes by putting the responsibility for care back into the hands of the cooperative’s members and providers. A private market solution tailored for individuals and employers, Colorado HealthOP will begin open enrollment in October 2013 via Connect for Health Colorado, Colorado’s health insurance marketplace, and through independent brokers and agents. Coverage will begin January 1, 2014. For more information about Colorado HealthOP, please visit www.COHealthOP.org or call 720.627.8900.

Contact:
Shannon Fern
Communications Strategy Group
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, Colo 80206
303-433-7020
shannon.fern@cohealthop.org
http://www.csg-pr.com

“Today's Inspiring Women” Radio Show Goes on the Air - Debuts on Voice America

Each week Deanne DeMarco will introduce extraordinary and inspiring women who may not yet be household names but are business and entrepreneurial rising stars—women who may have come from a background similar to your own.

Hillside, IL, April 30, 2013 - Multi-talented career coach and entrepreneur Deanne DeMarco brings her high energy and inspiring message to the VoiceAmerica Empowerment Radio network. Deanne’s hour-long show, aptly called “Today’s Inspiring Women,” begins a 13-work series on May 2nd. It airs every Thursday at Noon pacific.

For more than 20 years Deanne ( www.DeanneDeMarco.com) has used her innovative strategies—drawn from her successful experiences as a scientist, college instructor, management trainer, Fortune 500 manager, author and entrepreneur—to help business executives and individuals break through personal and career roadblocks.

Deanne is an example of her own advice and leadership with an impressive background in medicine, education, training and conflict resolution. As a scientist, for instance, she was on the original three-member team that first discovered the cancer link to second-hand smoke (published in the Lancet). As a corporate trainer, her management coaching program won national recognition from Training Magazine’s Top 100. She is renowned for her ability to make an impact with her high energy speaking style, use of personal stories and strategies that work.

Each week on the show Deanne will introduce extraordinary and inspiring women who may not yet be household names but are business and entrepreneurial rising stars—women who may have come from a background similar to your own.

Says Deanne, “You’ll discover how they overcame challenges and the lessons they learned to become successful in their fields. Not only will you hear success stories, you’ll also be presented with professional insights, tools, tips and strategies you can employ to achieve your own personal success. It’s all about inspiring women inspiring women.”

For her opening program, Deanne takes the microphone herself to discuss the all-important issue of communications for building successful relationships not only in your business life with clients, colleagues and employees, but also in your personal life. She says that, although there are many different personality types, communication style boils down to four major behavioral approaches. These were first identified two thousand years ago by Hippocrates and popularized in the modern age by Harvard-trained psychologist Dr. William Marston.

What are they? How can you use them to communicate more effectively? How do you take charge and keep your communication style in sync? Find out by tuning in to “Today’s Inspiring Women,” Thursdays at noon Pacific on the VoiceAmerica Empowerment Radio. www.voiceamerica.com/show/2182/todays-inspiring-women

Contact:
John Steinmetz
Breaking- Boundaries International, Inc
2205 S. Wolf Road
Suite 304
Hillside, IL 60162
708-836-0118
info@Breaking-Boundaries.com
http://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2182/todays-inspiring-women

IPHi Launches Model HIV/AIDS Care Program in PG County, Maryland

The Institute for Public Health Innovation Launches Model HIV/AIDS Care Program in Prince George’s County, Maryland

Washington, DC, April 29, 2013 - The Institute for Public Health Innovation (IPHi) today announced Total Health Partners, a new initiative in Prince George’s County, Maryland that will use highly trained community health workers to provide personalized assistance to people living with HIV/AIDS to help them link to and remain in HIV medical care. The effort is a partnership with Prince George’s County Health Department, Greater Baden Medical Services, and Heart to Hand, Inc. and an expansion of similar efforts that IPHi coordinates in the District of Columbia and Virginia. IPHi recently received prestigious national grants from the Kaiser Permanente National Community Benefit Fund at the East Bay Community Foundation, AIDS United, and M·A·C AIDS Fund to launch the program, along with funding from Washington AIDS Partnership. 

Prince George’s County is home to approximately one-fifth of all people living with HIV in Maryland, second only to Baltimore City. According to the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, only 65% of HIV diagnosed persons in the county were linked to care in 2010 and just over one-third (37%) of HIV diagnosed persons were retained in care. Fewer still, 27%, were on antiretroviral therapy, and just 19% achieved viral suppression. These rates are below corresponding rates for Maryland and the nation overall. Research demonstrates that viral suppression is critical not only for the health and quality of life of people living with HIV/AIDS, but for preventing further transmission of the disease.

The community health workers will work as members of interdisciplinary care teams at medical and support service sites across the county. As trusted members of the community who can relate to the experiences of those they support, community health workers are in a unique position to help people living with HIV/AIDS overcome barriers to medical care, including stigma, lack of a basic understanding about the disease and available services, and challenges navigating community resources.

Since 2011, IPHi has trained over 100 community health workers, including approximately 40 who have specialized in providing support to people living with HIV/AIDS. IPHi, together with its partner Washington AIDS Partnership and over 15 community-based and medical providers, has created over 25 community health worker positions throughout DC, Maryland, and Virginia. Among those are 13 community health workers involved in Positive Pathways, a nationally recognized HIV care model in DC that enrolled over 500 people living with HIV/AIDS in its first 18 months. Positive Pathways has an intentional focus on the Wards of DC closest to Prince George’s County.

“The area straddling the border between DC and Prince George’s County is one of the most concentrated HIV/AIDS epidemics in the country,” said Michael Rhein, President and CEO of IPHi. “While there are considerable resources available to address the epidemic in DC, community-based systems of care and support for people living with HIV/AIDS are less developed and integrated across the jurisdictional line in Prince George’s County. Total Health Partners will play a critical role in ensuring that county residents have the assistance they need to access life-saving HIV/AIDS medical and support services.”

“This project is a long time coming for our county,” said Dedra Spears-Johnson, Executive Director of a community-based organization called Heart to Hand, Inc. “Too many people living with HIV/AIDS in the county are not effectively linked to medical care. Total Health Partners will make a huge difference."

About the Institute for Public Health Innovation
The Institute for Public Health Innovation (IPHi) provides technical capacity, leverages resources, and facilitates collaboration across sectors to develop, implement, and evaluate effective strategies that improve health and quality of life in the DC, Maryland and Virginia region. IPHi is one of the newest institutes within the National Network of Public Health Institutes (NNPHI), an organization of 38 members throughout the United States and a growing aspect of the national public health infrastructure. To learn more about IPHi, visit www.institutephi.org.

Contact:
Janelle Suggs
The Institute for Public Health Innovation (IPHi)
130, Connecticut Avenue NW, Suite 200
Washington, DC 20036
202-407-7096
jsuggs@institutephi.org
http://www.institutephi.org

Jabbrag Named to Coloradobiz Magazine’s 2013 “Top 100 Woman-Owned Companies” List

Denver-based online marketing company Jabbrag is proud to announce it has been featured on Coloradobiz Magazine’s 2013 “Top 100 Woman-Owned Companies” List.

Denver, Colorado, April 26, 2013 – Denver-based online marketing company Jabbrag is proud to announce it has been featured on Coloradobiz Magazine’s 2013 “Top 100 Woman-Owned Companies” List. Jabbrag, which was founded in 2009 by Colorado-native Jenna Reilly Gavin, makes its debut on the list this year, which compiles rankings based on annual revenues.

“I am incredibly proud that Jabbrag has been recognized by Coloradobiz Magazine as one of the Top 100 Woman-Owned Companies in Colorado,” said Jabbrag CEO and founder, Jenna Reilly Gavin. “Being included on this list with some of Colorado’s most successful female entrepreneurs and business women is an honor, and a testament to the hard work my team and I have dedicated to making Jabbrag a success.”

Jabbrag is an online marketing, social media marketing and website development company with a passion for making good things great. Jenna Reilly Gavin founded Jabbrag in 2009, after an acquaintance hired her to build a website. With no experience, she taught herself how to build, design and program websites in order to be able to both care for and support her newborn son. Though that original site went away, business continued coming in, allowing her to expand into social media, pay-per-click advertising and Google AdWords marketing. In less than four years, her efforts grew into what Jabbrag is today: a highly successful and respected company with a dozen employees in downtown Denver.

When Jabbrag began expanding its offerings, Jenna found herself and her company working for many non-profits and charitable foundations. When the recession hit, many of these charities saw grants, funding and donations begin to dry up, leaving them unable to afford Jabbrag’s services. In order to continue to serve these clients, Reilly Gavin started the Compassionate Business program, an arm of Jabbrag that provides online marketing work to charities at no cost. Denver charities served include the Fetal Hope Foundation, Colorado Public Television and the Mercy Center for Healing the Whole Person. In 2012, Jabbrag donated more than $300,000 worth of services.

For More Information
Stephen Gavin, VP Sales, Jabbrag
P. 303.747.4940 | stephen.gavin@jabbrag.com

For more information about Jabbrag, its services or the Compassionate Business program, visit www.jabbrag.com or call 888-514-1080.

Contact:
Amy Larson
CSG | PR
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
303-433-7020
alarson@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

Varsity Tutors Partners with Coinbase to Accept Bitcoin for Tutoring Services

New Currency Allows More Convenience, Fewer Fees for International Students & Their Families

St. Louis, MO, April 25, 2013 – Varsity Tutors, a premier private academic tutoring and test prep provider, today announced that it is now accepting Bitcoin as a form of payment for its in-person and live-online tutoring services. While all clients will be able to pay using Bitcoin, the company anticipates that the greatest demand will be from students located abroad who purchase Skype-tutoring. Previously, international students seeking Varsity Tutors’ services, most often for language tutoring or SAT, GMAT, LSAT and MCAT test prep, could only process payment by credit card or bank transfer which assess foreign transaction fees. The addition of Bitcoin to its payment options will allow those who have adopted the digital currency to avoid traditional currency conversion costs.

“At Varsity Tutors, we’re constantly seeking out ways to better serve our clients, so if digital currency can make it easier for international students to access our tutoring services, it seems only natural to embrace it,” said Chuck Cohn, founder and CEO of Varsity Tutors. “Logistically, the process of integrating Bitcoin into our payment structure was very easy, and any simple change that can improve the client experience is a no-brainer.”

Varsity Tutors is accepting Bitcoin payment through Coinbase. A believer in the currency and technology, Cohn actually began investing in Bitcoin and the payment service last year. “As an entrepreneur, I’m a strong supporter of efficient and innovative technologies, so I’m very interested in the potential of digital currency not only in my business, but in the larger marketplace,” said Cohn.

Varsity Tutors provides in-home academic tutoring and test prep services in 19 major U.S. metro areas, as well as online via Skype. Students are expertly matched with a private tutor who delivers personalized, one-on-one instruction in any subject from STEM to the humanities, as well as preparation for standardized exams at all levels of education from K-12 to graduate school.

For more information about Varsity Tutors and its services, visit www.varsitytutors.com.

About Varsity Tutors
Varsity Tutors is a premier private academic tutoring and test prep provider designed to help students at all levels of education achieve academic excellence. Varsity Tutors delivers in-home, personalized, one-on-one instruction in any subject from STEM to the humanities and customized preparation for all standardized exams, including ISEE, SSAT, SAT, ACT and graduate exams such as the GRE, LSAT, MCAT and GMAT. Students from elementary to graduate school are expertly matched with an exceptional tutor who is best able to address their unique needs and goals. To ensure satisfaction and safety, only the highest caliber tutors are selected to join Varsity Tutors following a rigorous screening process. Varsity Tutors currently serves 19 major metro areas nationwide and offers a variety of tutoring packages. Students and their families interested in learning more about Varsity Tutors should visit www.varsitytutors.com. 

Contact:
Lindsey (Mikal) Read
CSG PR
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
937 408 9321
lread@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

Empire Rockefeller Vodka and F. Rockefeller and Sons Champagne Now Available Senor Frogs and at Central at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas

Empire Rockefeller Vodka and F. Rockefeller and Sons Champagne – 2004 are now available for purchase at Senor Frogs restaurant and at Central at Caesar’s Palace both in Las Vegas.

New York, NY, April 24, 2013 -- Empire Rockefeller Vodka and F. Rockefeller and Sons Champagne – 2004 are now available for purchase at Senor Frogs restaurant and at Central at Caesar’s Palace both in Las Vegas.

Empire Rockefeller Vodka will be featured as 2 x 1 shots and in specialty drinks at Senor Frogs in Las Vegas, the flagship franchise of the popular Mexican and Caribbean-themed bar and restaurant chain.

Central, the famed bistro crated by chef Michel Richard, will have Empire Rockefeller Vodka as its featured pour and as the featured spirit in their hand-crafted drinks created by their staff mixologists. F. Rockefeller and Sons will also be Central’s featured house champagne.

Empire Rockefeller Vodka, part of the Vintage Rockefeller Wine & Spirits Group, came to market in 2012 and has quickly earned respect for its unique smooth taste. It is the only vodka in the world that is distilled six times in a copper cognac kettle in the Cognac region of France. The winter wheat used for Empire Rockefeller Vodka is done organically in France in the dedication of being as natural as possible. The water used in its production comes from pristine French springs, filtered through Champagne limestone. Empire Rockefeller starts off with what can be described as a very mild sweet start. This taste greets and lingers for a few seconds and gives way to a full-bodied middle followed by an extraordinary smooth, subtle finish.

F. Rockefeller and Sons Champagne is a vintage 2004 champagne that features a delicate stream of bubbles, a golden straw color and honey-mingled aromas with notes of hazelnut and subtle notes of almond paste and vanilla. It has been described as fresh, well-rounded and astonishingly persistent.

Vintage Rockefeller Wine & Spirits produces a portfolio of high quality vodka, champagne, cognac produced in France, and coming soon Red & White Wines. It is currently distributed in the United States in New York, Florida, Nevada and Pennsylvania with more states being rolled out later this year. For more information, go to www.VintageRockefeller.com or like them on Facebook or follow them on Twitter at @RockefellerUSA

Contact:
Randy Walker
Vintage Rockefeller Wine & Spirits
New York, NY
917 770 0843
Rwalker@NewChapterMedia.com
http://www.VintageRockefeller.com