Connected Tennessee Awarded Recovery Act Funding to Advance Sustainable Broadband Adoption in Tennessee

Connected Tennessee Awarded Recovery Act Funding to Advance Sustainable Broadband Adoption in Tennessee

Grant will encourage broadband subscribership and provide computers and training to more than 60,000 at-risk youth across the state

Washington, DC (Vocus) August 18, 2010

Connected Tennessee’s Computers 4 Kids program will receive $2.3 million in federal funding in an effort to increase sustainable broadband adoption and provide computers and training to over 60,000 disadvantaged youth across the state.

Computers 4 Kids joined 93 other Recovery Act investments in broadband projects announced today by Vice President Biden that will create jobs and expand economic opportunities within 37 states. These investments in high-speed Internet infrastructure will help bridge the technological divide in communities that are being left in the 20th century economy and support improvements in education, healthcare, and public safety. Today's announcement, an investment totaling $1.8 billion, is part of a nearly $7 billion Recovery Act initiative.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) matching grant is awarded by the U. S. Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s (NTIA) Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP). BTOP provides grants to support the deployment of broadband infrastructure, enhance and expand public computer centers, and encourage sustainable adoption of broadband service.

The Computers 4 Kids “Preparing Tennessee’s Next Generation for Success” project (http://www2.ntia. doc. gov/grantee/connected-tennessee-llc) intends to focus on economically vulnerable youth in Tennessee by deploying laptops, academic support programs, and workforce training to two different, but especially at-risk populations: those “aging out” of the state’s foster care system (as they turn 18) and youth who are active in the state’s 76 Boys & Girls Clubs. The project plans to provide younger children in the Boys & Girls Clubs with broadband access in a safe environment via its Club Tech program, supported by software provider Microsoft.

“This project is going to connect thousands of Tennessee young people who would otherwise not have access to the vast resources afforded by a high-speed Internet connection,” said Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen. “The project will create new educational opportunities and provide vital career training that will empower youth with the tools they need to achieve their goals in a way not previously available to them.”

Computers 4 Kids also proposes to:
 Encourage broadband subscribership and train as many as 58,000 youth over the life of the project, offering approximately 9 million training hours.  Provide older youth in the foster care system with laptop computers and support with high school completion and workforce training through the state’s network of Career Centers.  Organize community events to build awareness of the program and the benefits of broadband access for education and career preparation at all ages.

“Through this two-fold approach, we will be able to target two of Tennessee’s most vulnerable populations and engage them in both online and classroom-based training in order to equip them for a technologically savvy workforce,” said Connected Tennessee’s Executive Director, Michael Ramage. “This project has the potential to impact more than 66,000 vulnerable youth across the state, creating a positive ripple effect on job growth, economic development, and broadband adoption that may well be felt for years to come.”

Connected Tennessee is an independent non-profit organization that works with assorted Tennessee private - and public-sector entities to decrease the cost of technology expansion and increase the ease of doing business in Tennessee. Connected Tennessee aims to accelerate the availability and use of technology statewide to create a better business environment, more effective community and economic development, improved healthcare, enhanced education, and more efficient government. Connected Tennessee will be facilitating this project with assistance from:
Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development, Tennessee Department of Children's Services, Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development, Boys & Girls Clubs in Tennessee, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, CIBER, Inc., and the Internet Keep Safe Coalition.

About Connected Tennessee: As a public-private partnership, Connected Tennessee partners with technology-minded businesses, government entities, and universities to accelerate technology in the state. For more information about what Connected Tennessee is doing to accelerate technology in Tennessee’s communities, visit www. connectedtennessee. org.

Computers 4 Kids: Preparing Tennessee’s Next Generation for Success: Connected Tennessee’s Computers 4 Kids project is helping to prepare Tennessee’s most vulnerable youth for success by providing them with connectivity. The program promotes economic, career and educational development through the provision of computers and broadband Internet, online technology training, career training and community awareness that highlights the benefits of technology adoption.

Contact: Mandy Hale 
615-242-9508
Mhale(at)connectedtn(dot)org

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Butler Snow Leverages WinScribe to Make More Efficient Use of Staff Resources

Butler Snow Leverages WinScribe to Make More Efficient Use of Staff Resources

WinScribe, the market innovator in digital dictation, transcription, and workflow management solutions announced today that Mississippi-based Butler, Snow, O'Mara, Stevens and Cannada, PLLC has deployed WinScribe in an effort to boost support staff efficiency and allow the firm to do more with less.

Chicago, IL (PRWEB) March 24, 2009

WinScribe, the market innovator in digital dictation, transcription, and workflow management solutions announced today that Mississippi-based Butler, Snow, O'Mara, Stevens and Cannada, PLLC has deployed WinScribe in an effort to boost support staff efficiency and allow the firm to do more with less.

Prior to its adoption of WinScribe, 50 of the firm's 160 attorneys utilized analog tapes to capture dictation. Those tapes were handed off to the attorney's secretary who was responsible for the transcription of the audio. Secretaries were spending up to 25 hours a week transcribing dictation.

"It was our desire to make better use of our secretarial skills," explains Ken Jones, Director of Information Technology at Butler Snow. "We wanted to free our secretaries to do more than just transcribe. We knew that if we could reduce the amount of time each secretary spent on this time consuming task then we could increase the number of attorneys that each secretary supports."

Attorneys have replaced their analog tape recorders with Olympus digital handheld devices. These devices enable attorneys to dictate both in and out of the office. When the attorney is ready to submit files for dictation, they simply dock the device. WinScribe automatically uploads the files and delivers them to the appropriate staff members for transcription.

WinScribe's digital dictation workflow management system allowed the firm to restructure its support staff team into a centralized group that handles transcription more efficiently than as structured previously. Dictation is automatically routed to the group and processed as received.

Butler Snow's efficiency gains did not stop there. The firm has also adopted WinScribe's Nuance integrated speech recognition to further enhance productivity. "Speech recognition was a key factor for us. We did not want to just shift the workload. We wanted to find a way to make the dictation to transcription process much faster," said Jones.

The firm initially provided ten attorneys with the ability to take advantage of speech recognition. Today, the firm offers speech recognition to twenty-five attorneys. These attorneys take advantage of WinScribe's server-side speech recognition integration capabilities.

With server-side speech recognition, the speech recognition process is carried out at the server level unbeknownst to the attorney. The attorney simply records his or her dictation as usual, and the recording is converted to recognized text within the server. No special words or phrases are required so attorney work practices are completely unaffected.

WinScribe's server-side speech recognition technology deploys automated adaptation technologies to allow continual accuracy improvement without adding overhead to the transcriptionists' workflow. As a result, secretaries simply proofread an automatically produced text document rather than typing the document from scratch.

"WinScribe has enabled us to meet our goal. We have provided our secretaries with the tool they needed to reduce the amount of time spent handling dictations. This has allowed these secretaries to support more attorneys than before," concludes Jones.

About Butler, Snow, O'Mara, Stevens and Cannada, PLLC

Butler Snow is a full-service law firm with more than 160 attorneys representing regional, national and international clients from offices in Jackson, Mississippi, Memphis, Tennessee, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and the Mississippi Gulf Coast. For more information, visit www. butlersnow. com

About WinScribe
WinScribe is a world leading provider of digital dictation software supporting business requirements for digital dictation, transcription, voice recognition, and workflow management. Founded in 1989, WinScribe has offices in the USA, UK, New Zealand, Australia and Switzerland, with more than 100 sales partners in over 25 countries supporting more than 350,000 users worldwide.

The WinScribe solution is built on Microsoft architecture, to ensure easy integration and maintenance. WinScribe also supports a wide range of manufacturer-independent dictation devices and is scalable from small, single office locations up to large multinational corporations. WinScribe is fully customizable to meet the needs of a number of significant vertical markets including Legal, Law Enforcement, Healthcare, Transcription, Insurance and Government Sectors.

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The Chopra Center for Wellbeing Launches “Manifest the Life You Deserve”

The Chopra Center for Wellbeing Launches “Manifest the Life You Deserve”

Co-founders Deepak Chopra, M. D. & David Simon, M. D. teach the keys to manifesting physical, emotional, and financial wellbeing.

Carlsbad, Calif. (PRWEB) March 10, 2010

The Chopra Center for Wellbeing today announced “Manifest the Life You Deserve” –– a series of signature workshops led by best-selling authors, acclaimed mind-body healing pioneers, and Chopra Center co-founders Deepak Chopra, M. D. and David Simon, M. D. (http://www. chopra. com) In the next few months, the Chopra Center will be bringing this workshop series to some of the most beautiful U. S. cities, where participants will learn timeless wisdom and practical tools for manifesting what they really want in all aspects of their lives.

“In our current times, many people feel stuck, worried, or trapped in negative cycles of thinking and behaving that damage their health and prevent them from seeing the possibilities that still abound,” said Dr. David Simon. “We’re very excited about creating the “Manifest the Life You Deserve” workshop series (http://www. chopra. com/manifest) to help people create the next chapter of their life.”

“At this workshop series, participants will learn how to shift from where they are to where they want to be,” said davidji, dean of Chopra Center University. “And depending on where you are in your life, there is an access point that meets your need.”

There are three workshops in the series. Each one has a specific focus so that participants can receive guidance and support that is customized to their individual concerns:

For first timers or those who are experiencing stress or challenges but have yet to develop a daily practice, there is the Weekend Within - the Chopra Center’s Gateway program for beginner manifesters. “Weekend Within” is a powerful introductory workshop led by Deepak Chopra, David Simon, and lead educator, davidji. Participants will learn the powerful tools and techniques of meditation, yoga, and Ayurveda – India’s 5,000-year-old healing system.
–– Manifest Health, Wellbeing, and Peace of Mind @ “A Weekend Within” Workshop (http://www. chopra. com/weekendwithin) this April 30 – May 2 in Carlsbad, California

For those struggling with emotional turbulence, forgiveness, acceptance, or the pain of some trauma, loss, or experience, there is the short weekend release workshop known as “Free to Love.” During this intensive weekend workshop, David Simon, M. D. will guide you in a unique five-step process that has helped thousands manifest emotional healing.

--Manifest Emotional Healing at the “Free to Love” Workshop (http://www. chopra. com/freetolove)
April 16–18, 2010: San Francisco, California
July 9–11, 2010: Carlsbad, California

For more than a decade, the “SynchroDestiny” empowerment workshop has shown thousands of seekers and high achievers how to harness the creative power of coincidence to achieve their deepest desires. Guided by Deepak Chopra, attendees learn to transform their desires and intentions into their destiny.

--Manifest Your Deepest Desires with Deepak Chopra at the “SynchroDestiny” Workshop (http://www. chopra. com/synchro)

June 16–20, 2010: Taos, New Mexico
October 20–24, 2010: Carlsbad, California

To register for a workshop or learn more, please call 888.736.6895 or visit http://www. chopra. com/manifest (http://www. chopra. com/manifest)

About Deepak Chopra, M. D.
Author, physician, and co-founder of the Chopra Center for Wellbeing
Recognized as one of the world's pioneering experts in mind-body medicine, Deepak Chopra continues to transform our understanding of health and healing. A global force in the field of human empowerment, he is the prolific author of more than 55 books, including 14 bestsellers on mind-body health, quantum science, and spirituality.

About David Simon, M. D.
Author, CEO, Medical Director and Co-founder of the Chopra Center for Wellbeing
David Simon is a world-renowned authority in the field of mind-body medicine. As a board-certified neurologist and expert in complementary therapies, he brings a unique perspective to the relationship between mind, emotions, and health. David is the author of many wellness books, including his most recent bestseller, Free to Love, Free to Heal: Heal Your Body by Healing Your Emotions. (http://chopra. com/love)

About davidji
Davidji has been in apprenticeship to Deepak Chopra and David Simon for the past seven years and is the dean of Chopra Center University. As the Chopra Center’s lead meditation teacher and a certified "Perfect Health" instructor, davidji is a guiding force who has taught thousands the timeless tools of meditation and Ayurveda.

About Claire Diab
Claire Diab is the director of the Chopra Center’s Seven Spiritual Laws of Yoga teacher training program. She is also the founder of the American Yoga Academy and is an internationally renowned yoga therapist and fitness specialist with more than 20 years of experience. In addition, she is currently serving as an adjunct professor of Asian Studies at Seton Hall University in New Jersey.

About the Chopra Center
The Chopra Center for Wellbeing was founded by Deepak Chopra, M. D. and David Simon, M. D. in 1996. Located in Carlsbad, California, the Center offers a wide variety of programs, retreats, and teacher training programs that integrate the healing arts of the East with the best in modern Western medicine. The Chopra Center has helped millions of people around the world find peace of mind, physical balance, and emotional healing. The website http://www. chopra. com (http://www. chopra. com) is your starting point on the path to wellness.

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Report Identifies 4 Reasons Toys and Other Products with Hazardous Chemicals Slip Through the Regulatory System; Resource Guide Offers Policymakers Options for Policy Reform

Report Identifies 4 Reasons Toys and Other Products with Hazardous Chemicals Slip Through the Regulatory System; Resource Guide Offers Policymakers Options for Policy Reform

A new report identifies four reasons why the federal regulatory system for protecting the public from toxic chemicals in toys and other products is inadequate, allowing potentially harmful products to end up on store shelves. A second report offers state policymakers chemical policy options in lieu of little federal action.

Lowell, Massachusetts (PRWEB) March 3, 2008

"Presumption of Safety: Limits of Federal Policies on Toxic Substances in Consumer Products"--- researched and written by the Lowell Center for Sustainable Production at the University of Massachusetts Lowell -- untangles the alphabet soup of government regulations and the agencies responsible for overseeing consumer product safety laws.

The report finds that the government agency with the majority of responsibility for implementing consumer product regulations, the Consumer Product Safety Commission, is limited in authority by outdated regulations. Specifically, the four reasons why consumers may not be adequately protected from hazardous chemicals in toys and other products are:

1) Voluntary Standards. Consumer product safety laws force the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to rely largely on voluntary consumer product standards developed by industry groups, yet the CPSC has a limited capacity to ensure compliance with these voluntary standards and guidelines. Recent recalls suggest that voluntary assurances of product safety do not work in practice.

2) Limited Budget and Staff. The CPSC is charged with assuring the safety of more than 15,000 types of products with half of its original budget and limited staff, especially for concerns about toxic chemicals.

3) Burdensome, Reactive Policies. Existing laws and policies regulating toxic chemicals in toys and consumer products are reactive in nature. To regulate or restrict hazardous chemicals in toys or consumer products, the CPSC has to undergo a lengthy, costly and time-consuming process that must balance health protective actions with costs to industry. Thus, few chemicals are actually regulated in consumer products.

4) Testing and Safety Not Required. The system lacks requirements for toy and consumer product manufacturers to test products for most chemical hazards or to demonstrate the safety of chemicals in products. This problem is compounded by the significant lack of toxicity information available for most chemicals in commerce. This lack of information is treated as evidence of safety rather than ensuring the health and safety of consumers in the face of uncertainty.

Options at the State Level
With little federal action in the United States to reform chemicals management policies in 30 years, the Lowell Center for Sustainable Production also released a resource guide for states, and ultimately federal reform, titled "Options for States to Reform Chemicals Policies: A Resource Guide."

"Our intent in releasing these two reports together is to illustrate the problems of our current systems while providing solutions," said Joel Tickner, assistant professor at UMass Lowell. "I believe that we can begin to modernize our chemicals policies throughout the United States so that they support innovation in safer products, even if it's not at the federal level. The alternative, which I find unacceptable, is to sit idly while hazardous substances continue to invade our homes, bodies and communities."

The policymaker resource guide includes dozens of chemical policy option examples that demonstrate the success, or failure, of options implemented in the past.
Both reports can be downloaded at www. chemicalspolicy. org.

About the University of Massachusetts Lowell
UMass Lowell, with a national reputation in science, engineering and technology, is committed to educating students for lifelong success in a diverse world and conducting research and outreach activities that sustain the economic, environmental and social health. UML offers its 11,000 students more than 120 degree choices, internships, five-year combined bachelor's to master's programs and doctoral studies in the colleges of Arts and Sciences, Engineering and Management, the School of Health and Environment, and the Graduate School of Education. www. uml. edu.

About the Lowell Center for Sustainable Production
The Lowell Center for Sustainable Production at UMass Lowell uses rigorous science, collaborative research, and innovative strategies to promote communities, workplaces, and products that are healthy, humane, and respectful of natural systems. The Center is composed of faculty, staff, and graduate students at the University of Massachusetts Lowell who work collaboratively with citizen groups, workers, businesses, institutions, and government agencies to build healthy work environments, thriving communities, and viable businesses that support a more sustainable world.

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Feedback Project Focuses On Patients' Needs

Feedback Project Focuses On Patients' Needs

The Myeloma Institute for Research and Therapy at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) launched the Patient Initiated Quality Improvement Project in January, a pilot program designed to improve the quality of clinical care and customer service at the center.

Little Rock, AR (PRWEB) March 1, 2006

The Myeloma Institute for Research and Therapy (http://myeloma. uams. edu (http://myeloma. uams. edu)) at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS -- http://www. uams. edu (http://www. uams. edu)) launched the Patient Initiated Quality Improvement Project in January, a pilot program designed to improve the quality of clinical care and customer service at the center.

The six-month project, funded by a grant from the Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation, involves the analysis of detailed patient feedback by a committee comprised of UAMS staff and Myeloma Institute (http://myeloma. uams. edu (http://myeloma. uams. edu)) patients. A total of 12 patients are providing the committee with electronic feedback regarding their clinical experiences and other aspects of treatment via e-mail, according to Dr. Elias Anaissie, the Myeloma Institute's director of the Supportive Care Division.

"We've encouraged them to take notes while they are going to their appointments, seeing the nurse, seeing the doctor. We want to hear whatever they have to say, the good, the bad and the ugly," said Anaissie, who is on the committee along with Dr. Charles Smith, UAMS' medical director, and two MIRT patients.

All of the patients' remarks are kept confidential, Anaissie said, adding that certain suggestions have already led to improvements in treatment processes.

"The healthcare system in this country and worldwide is not patient-friendly. We believe that the solution is not going to come from Congress or some think tank but from the patient. Empowering the patient as a partner, rather than a passive recipient of care, has the potential to transform healthcare in a most positive way. Patient issues must be taken into consideration and corrective action must be taken if we are to better serve our patients and improve our efficiency," Anaissie said.

Besides the e-mail responses, the committee is also reviewing feedback forms handed out to patients during their clinic visits as well as written suggestions from those patients undergoing stem cell transplants.

"This idea is where the future of medicine is heading," said Smith, who expects similar projects to be utilized in all UAMS clinics in the near future. "The doctor-patient encounter is becoming demystified. This will provide us with guidance on how the system needs to change and make it more sensitive to patient needs."

About the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS):

UAMS is the state's only comprehensive academic health center, with five colleges, a graduate school, a medical center, five centers of excellence and a statewide network of regional centers. UAMS has about 2,320 students and 690 residents and is one of the state's largest public employers with almost 9,000 employees. UAMS and its affiliates have an economic impact in Arkansas of $4.3 billion a year. UAMS centers of excellence are the Arkansas Cancer Research Center (http://www. acrc. uams. edu (http://www. acrc. uams. edu)), Harvey and Bernice Jones Eye Institute (http://www. uams. edu/jei (http://www. uams. edu/jei)), Donald W. Reynolds Institute on Aging (http://centeronaging. uams. edu (http://centeronaging. uams. edu)), Myeloma Institute for Research and Therapy (http://myeloma. uams. edu/ (http://myeloma. uams. edu/)) and Jackson T. Stephens Spine & Neurosciences Institute (http://www. uams. edu/stephensinstitute (http://www. uams. edu/stephensinstitute)).

Contact:

Leslie W. Taylor, 501-686-8998

Wireless phone: 501-951-7260

Http://www. uams. edu (http://www. uams. edu) / http://myeloma. uams. edu (http://myeloma. uams. edu)

Andrea Peel, 501-686-8996

Wireless phone: 501-351-7903

Http://www. uams. edu (http://www. uams. edu) / http://myeloma. uams. edu (http://myeloma. uams. edu)

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SIUE Chancellor: Achieving National Recognition During The National Recession

SIUE Chancellor: Achieving National Recognition During The National Recession

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Chancellor Vaughn Vandegrift delivered his annual address today, highlighting the important role SIUE is playing in enhancing the economy, attracting students and increasing the diversity of its student body.

Edwardsville, IL (Vocus) October 28, 2010

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Chancellor Vaughn Vandegrift delivered his annual address today, highlighting the important role SIUE is playing in enhancing the economy, attracting students and increasing the diversity of its student body.

Vandegrift’s address, Achieving National Recognition during the National Recession, was presented in SIUE’s Meridian Ballroom this morning. He said that since 2005, the University has increased the size of its incoming freshman class by 18 percent—from 1,748 to 2,065 students—while maintaining an average ACT score of 22.5.

The number of minority students at SIUE has increased along with the overall student population growth.

On the heels of achieving record enrollment for fall 2010 at 14,133 students—up 5 percent from fall 2005—Vandegrift mentioned that for the second consecutive year SIUE received national recognition among 68 universities in the “Top Up-And-Coming Schools” category by U. S.News and World Report America’s Best Colleges edition.

For the sixth consecutive year, U. S. News lists SIUE among 15 universities—including only four public institutions—for its outstanding capstone experiences, known at SIUE as a senior assignment program, which require students to integrate and synthesize what they have learned during their college experience.
“Our senior assignment program has contributed greatly to our emerging national recognition,” Vandegrift said. “Additionally, and for seven consecutive years, we are ranked in the top tier of all Midwestern universities, including among the top 20 public Midwestern master’s universities.”

He continued that the University has gained recognition nationally through its many rankings—as the 21st safest campus in the nation in the on-line national news magazine, Daily Beast; ranked eighth nationally by Washington Monthly among 551 master’s universities for its amount of research expenditures for federal work-study hours spent on service category; and the University’s growth in faculty research during the last five years, increasing from $3.1 million to $7.9 million.

Nearly 40 percent of SIUE’s full-time faculty has applied for and received grants and contracts.

Vandegrift also commented on the University’s regional economic impact, citing a study from the faculty in the SIUE School of Business through the Department of Economics and Finance. The study of the St. Louis Metropolitan Area revealed the University has a $471 million economic impact per year on the region, indicating a 32-percent increase from five years ago.

He also pointed out that the University is the second-largest employer in the Madison-St. Clair County region, with nearly 2,500 full-time employees, while boasting a payroll of more than $130 million.

Furthermore, Vandegrift remarked on the completion of more than half of a $250 million campus construction and infrastructure improvement plan, and the remaining work to be done.

“SIUE expenditures in the region for goods and services totaled nearly $66M during FY10, and we brought more than 100,000 people into the St. Louis Metropolitan Area to visit, attend athletics events, conferences and shows,” he said.

“But our impact on the region is not only in direct spending,” he said. “Our presence generates almost 9,000 additional jobs and over $250 million of labor income in the area. We also increase state and local tax revenues by almost $23 million, and students living on campus are responsible for nearly $400,000 of state reimbursements to the city of Edwardsville.

“Furthermore, each dollar of state appropriations creates about $5 of local spending and almost $7 of economic impact.”
According to the fiscal year 2010 study, more than 9,000 SIUE students indicated they are in the St. Louis Metropolitan Area because of SIUE. Also, more than 43,000 SIUE alumni live in the St. Louis area.

“In short, while our buildings and land are valued at almost $900 million and our economic impact on the region is $471 million per year, perhaps the greatest impact is what we do to improve the living and working environment of our region,” Vandegrift said. “When you consider the impact of the Edwardsville campus, the East St. Louis Higher Education Center and the School of Dental Medicine, SIUE plain and simple is a good deal for taxpayers.”

With a recent $4.2 million gift to the University from the Lukas estate, Vandegrift explained the University will make further revisions to the Vadalabene Center to provide office space and a state-of-the-art weight lifting and conditioning center in support of the University’s transition to NCAA Division I, adding space for the SIUE Department of Kinesiology and health Education.

“The addition to the Vadalabene Center will coincide with the completion of our transition to Division I and the certification process we are now undergoing from the NCAA,” Vandegrift said.

Starting in spring 2011, Vandegrift said that upon approval by the SIU Board of Trustees the University will renovate part of Cougar Village to create a living and learning residential community for its fraternities and sororities. It is anticipated that about 175 students will reside in the renovated buildings allowing greater contributions by Greek organizations on campus.

He also talked about the groundbreaking of the Science Building project, which is expected to be completed in fall 2012; a proposed $14 million addition to the Art and Design Building, and a $12 million addition to the Engineering Building.

Also announced were plans for the proposed SIUE Nature Preserve; a 380-acre expanse of natural area along the western edge of the campus between the campus core and along Stadium Drive and New Poag Road. The area will be protected from development and available for faculty and student research, and educational opportunities.

“The preserve will be unique in the region and will position SIUE faculty to compete for research funds,” Vandegrift said. “This faculty-led initiative will also facilitate inter-disciplinary collaboration and joint projects with other universities, research foundations and government agencies.

“The SIUE Nature Preserve will be another example of our University value of citizenship, which includes environmental stewardship.”

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is a nationally recognized public university offering a broad choice of degrees and programs ranging from career-oriented fields of study to the essential, more traditional, liberal arts. At SIUE we offer 44 baccalaureate degrees, 13 post-baccalaureate certificates, 47 master's degrees, 11 post-master's certificates, two first-professional degrees, and one post-first professional certificate. Known for an emphasis in health science education, SIUE also offers a pharmacy and dental school. Additionally, undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificates are available through the College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Engineering, the School of Business, the School of Education and the School of Nursing.

SIUE offers the advantages of a small, liberal arts college with the low tuition rates of a state university. SIUE emphasizes undergraduate education, complemented by faculty research to create practical applications for student learning. Located in the second most populated area of the state, SIUE draws students from all 102 Illinois counties, 42 states and 50 nations.

One of 12 Illinois colleges and universities, SIUE is located on 2,600 acres of rolling hills and woodlands in Edwardsville, just 25 miles from St. Louis, a major metropolitan area. Proximity to the St. Louis area enhances SIUE’s energy and vitality. The campus is easily accessed from several major interstates, while the city of Edwardsville offers ample opportunity for jobs, entertainment, shopping and fun.

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Wellness International Network, Ltd. Announces Exciting Weight-Loss Success with BioLean® System

Wellness International Network, Ltd. Announces Exciting Weight-Loss Success with BioLean® System

The key to Wellness International Network's success is its extensive, results-oriented product line geared to help increase energy, stamina, weight loss and enhance mental function and mood, as well as a complete line of cellular nutritional products. In the company's 14 years of business many people have experienced life-changing results by adding WIN's products to their daily regimens, just like one Texan physician recently did.

Plano, Texas (PRWEB) November 30, 2006

Ralph Oats and Cathy Oats, Founders of Wellness International Network, Ltd. (WIN) (http://web. winltd. com/), an undisputed leader in the health and nutrition industries, are pleased to announce remarkable results through the use of WIN's product line.

In Wellness International Networks' 14 years of business many people have experienced life-changing results by adding WIN's products to their daily regimens. Recently, WIN encouraged its distributors to achieve ultimate health in a Commit to be Fit program. Dr. David Fein (http://web. winltd. com/Article. aspx? PageURL=/Pages/English/successstories/fein. htm), a gynecologist and obstetrician in Texas, is taking life on in a new light, after discovering the slimming effects of WIN products.

"I know every diet out there, I know every diet's ups and downs, I know every over-the-counter weight-loss product because I've bought them all myself -- and none of them worked," recalls David. After being introduced to WIN's products, his wife, Dena, hoped they might be a solution to David's weight problem. "We have two young children and I didn't want to bury my husband at an early age," shares Dena. Starting with BioLean II® (http://web. winltd. com/SC_Category. aspx? CategoryID=3&FlgService=N), Winrgy® and Food For Thought® (http://web. winltd. com/SC_Product. aspx? Itemcode=133005), David skeptically began using the products in February 2006. "It's not like I ate fast food, I ate healthy food, it's just that I ate way too much," he says. "After taking the products, I realized for the first time what it's like to feel full. I lost 10 pounds in the first 10 days!" Before he knew it, he was being fitted for new lab coats and clothes as his old ones seemed to be swallowing him up. The pounds continued melting away in the following weeks, totaling 50 pounds in only five months! Read more about David's story and the many other product success stories on winltd. com (http://web. winltd. com/successstories. aspx).

BioLean II® (http://www. mywinwebpage. com/CorpSiteShopBtnRedir. cfm) continues to be a favorite product for enhanced energy and weight-loss. Featured in the 2007 Physicians' Desk Reference® for Nonprescription Drugs, Dietary Supplements, and Herbs, the innovative formula in BioLean II® is made with Chinese herbs and powered by Advantra Z®, the only patented citrus aurantium extract for weight loss and physical performance on the market today. Start losing weight today and realize a healthier new you with BioLean II®!

About Wellness International Network, Ltd., (WIN)

A privately held company specializing in health and nutritional products, Wellness International Network, Ltd. (http://www. legacyinplano. com/) is headquartered in Plano, Texas, with its European affiliate, WIN Worldwide BV, located in Hoofddorp, Holland and its South African affiliate, Wellness International Network S. A. (Pty) Limited, located in Johannesburg, South Africa. Founded in 1992 by Ralph Oats and his wife, Cathy; WIN operates in many countries throughout North America, Europe and Africa, and is far and away the forefront leader in global network marketing. Wellness International Network's complete nutritional line is listed in the 2007 edition of the Physicians' Desk Reference® (PDR®) for Nonprescription Drugs and Dietary Supplements, the authoritative reference for health care professionals for decades, and a number of products have been reviewed by the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) in The Netherlands based on International Olympic Committee (IOC) standards on behalf of The Netherlands Olympic Committee (NOC) and The Netherlands Sports Federation (NSF). Products reviewed are now listed on the 'white list,' a list of products considered safe to use by top sports athletes from all over the world. Learn more about why "It Pays to Live Well" at winltd. com (http://web. winltd. com/).

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Dr. Kim Loos to Visit Local Schools for National Children's Dental Health Month

Dr. Kim Loos to Visit Local Schools for National Children's Dental Health Month

During National Children's Dental Health Month this February Dr. Kim Loos of San Jose, California will be leading the effort with educational and fun presentations to kindergarteners and first graders in the San Jose area.

San Jose, CA (PRWEB) January 25, 2010

Most people think of their dentists twice per year, at each cleaning, and would prefer to keep it that way. However, dental health calls for ongoing attention to good oral hygiene - something that is most likely to happen when people acquire good habits in dental care at an early age. National Children's Dental Health Month this coming February is a good opportunity to focus attention on this health issue, and Dr. Kim Loos of San Jose, California (www. drloos. com) will be leading the effort with educational and fun presentations to kindergarteners and first graders in the San Jose area.

One of the topics that Dr. Loos will discuss is the first visit to the dentist. While most children have already been to the dentist by age five or six, a few have not -- and may be too shy to admit it. Dr. Loos will show a short cartoon that explains visits to the dentist and have a show and tell session where she passes around materials from her office. This will hopefully get children more comfortable with going to dental offices.

"Many adults I treat talk about bad experiences at the dentist when they were children," Dr. Loos explains. "This can lead to fear of the dentist in adulthood. We strive to create good experiences for children in our office. I thought that going to the schools could help cultivate a positive attitude about the dentist."

Topics Dr. Loos will discuss will include how cavities arise and proper tooth brushing techniques, which she demonstrates with a large, loveable puppet. She hopes that her outreach will assist families' dental health and instill good habits in children that can benefit them in the long run. The initial roster for her visit includes the Lowell, De Vargas and Carlton Elementary schools.

"Oral health is so important, especially since we are discovering so many links between the state of our oral health and how it affects our general health," Dr. Loos said. She adds, "I want the children to learn at an early age the importance of taking care of their teeth, and this is something over which they have some control. Kids love that. I have had several parents tell me their children finally started flossing after we had visited their classroom."

About Dr. Loos
Dr. Kimberly Loos, www. drloos. com, is a family and cosmetic dentist in San Jose, California. Her dental office offers a wide variety of dental services including a complimentary dental screening for new patients. Dr. Loos offers a range of aesthetic and restorative dental services to enhance her patients' appearance and give them the smile they deserve.

For press inquiries, or to invite Dr. Loos to speak at your school, please contact Phil Kowalski, Polar Design, philk(at)polardesign(dot)com.

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Roberto Cavalli Rocks the Runway to Make Dreams Come True

Roberto Cavalli Rocks the Runway to Make Dreams Come True

The ‘First Ladies of the Dream Foundation’ tribute luncheon and fashion show honors local and national individuals. It will have a special appearance by Dream Foundation Ambassador Priscilla Presley.

Santa Barbara, CA., (PRWEB) October 16, 2005

On Thursday, Nov. 10, Dream Foundation will host its Fourth Annual “First Ladies of the Dream Foundation” event, a tribute luncheon and fashion show, at the glamorous Bacara Resort & Spa, from 11 am to 2 pm. Celebrity designer Roberto Cavalli’s wildly imaginative fashions will hit the runway at this year’s highly anticipated event, and Dream Foundation Ambassador Priscilla Presley will make a special appearance.

The purpose of this special occasion is to acknowledge a distinguished group of individuals who have been Dream Foundation supporters since its beginning. In the past, the First Ladies of the Dream Foundation event has honored those women who have played an integral role in the organization's growth and progress. This year, the First Ladies will honor those who have demonstrated their leadership, dedication, and generosity to Dream Foundation’s mission of making dreams come true for terminally ill adults and their families.

Special honors will also be presented including: Outstanding Dream Volunteer to the Himovitz Family; Flower Empower Award to the Van Wingerden Family; National Corporate Sponsor Award to Harman Kardon; Business Dream Sponsor Award to Steven E. Shulem of Strictly Vacations; 2005 Foundation Award to Odyssey Healthcare Foundation; Dream Advocates Award to the Lutz Family, Martin Brown of Kalyra Winery, and Tim Hanlon of Wells Fargo Foundation; Dream Captain Award to Debbie Boulerice; Frequent Flyer Angel Award to Donna Hartman of Alaska Airlines; Dream Board Member Award to A. J. Rice; Legacy of Dreams Award to Craig Donahue; Founder’s Award to Holly Murphy; and Outstanding Celebrity Spokesperson Awards to Brad Garrett, Jennifer Tilly, and Connie Stevens.

With celebrity devotees including Jennifer Lopez, Beyonce Knowles, Sharon Stone, Lenny Kravitz, Sting, Bono and Steven Tyler, Roberto Cavalli is counted among the most well-known international designers. The ‘provocative’ theme has always been an inspiration for much of his work – mixing suggestive animal prints, sexy silhouettes and luxurious embellishments. Highlights from Cavalli’s Resort collection will be shown.

The First Ladies of the Dream Foundation event is presented by C Magazine, California’s first lifestyle magazine premiering in September from the co-founder of W and the publisher of Santa Barbara Magazine. Event sponsors include Odyssey Healthcare, Roberto Cavalli, Bacara Resort and Spa, Too Faced Cosmetics, Walter Claudio Salon, Pale Blue Hanky, Harman Kardon, Dan & Debbie Kass, Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, Global Brand Marketing, Inc., Kenny & Elizabeth Slaught, Investec, Stephen & Angie Redding, Mark & Lynda Schwartz, Diana MacFarlane, Countrywide Home Loans, Doreen & Joel Ladin, and The Montgomery Family Foundation.

Dream Foundation is the first and largest national organization granting final wishes to terminally ill adults over the age of 18 who have a life expectancy of six months or less. Now in its 11th year, Dream Foundation has granted over 3,800 dreams to adults nationwide who are emotionally, financially and physically devastated by terminal illness. Additional information about Dream Foundation can be found on its website, www. dreamfoundation. org

TICKET INFORMATION: Please call Dream Foundation, (805) 564-2131. Tickets are $150 each. This event will sell out; tickets are limited and sold on a “first-come, first-served” basis.

MEDIA CONTACT: Jennifer Guess, (805) 962-3700

For inquiries concerning Roberto Cavalli please contact Kevin Mark Lodie, (310) 867-3387

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NXe Appoints Xtreme Planet as Master Distributor for Mexico & Central America

NXe Appoints Xtreme Planet as Master Distributor for Mexico & Central America

NXe announced today it has appointed Xtreme Planet in Mexico City as its Master Distributor for Mexico and Central America.

Scottsdale, AZ (PRWEB) November 19, 2005

NXe announced today it has appointed Xtreme Planet in Mexico City as its Master Distributor for Mexico and Central America. John Bosch, President of NXe went on to say, “As we continue the globalization of NXe it is imperative for our long term growth plan to associate our company and brand with companies who have the same vision, market penetration, and most importantly the ethical business practices and mindset that we hold to the highest level. After meeting Mr. Mario Kahn of Xtreme Planet and discussing both our business philosophies - short & long term vision and direction; this is a healthy relationship and partnership that will flourish for years to come.”

NXe will also sponsor Xtreme Planet one of Mexico’s premiere teams for 2006.

You can learn more about NXe and Xtreme Plant by contacting them at: www. nxepaintball. com or 480.778.8401; www. xtremeplanet. com or 55-5290-8190.

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Caruso's makes Top Restaurants List in New York Newspaper

Caruso's makes Top Restaurants List in New York Newspaper

Caruso's, an authentic pizzeria and trattoria gains fan base, as it was recently featured in News Day New York City.

Rocky Point, NY (PRWEB) June 13, 2008

Caruso's a casual Italian eatery, was recently named a Top Restaurant in News Day New York City. The daily newspaper provides information on local news, politics, health and fitness, travel, living green, nightlife, real estate and commuting.

The article, titled "Top Restaurants 2007: Fine Dining from all over the Map," summarizes a year of excellent eating for New York. These restaurants serve food from all over the world to New Yorkers. Caruso's ranks with these top restaurants and is described as a surprise package for those seeking high-quality Italian cooking at gentle prices. "Meltingly tender herb-flecked gnocchi are cloaked with a hearty Bolognese ragout," wrote News Day writer Peter M. Gianotto. "Toppings on a fine array of crostini include broccoli rabe and Grana Padano, house-made mozzarella and a tomato-mushroom pesto with white truffle oil." The pork tenderloin scaloppini is also another favorite and is served with wild mushrooms, gnocchi and caramelized onions in a light brandy cream.

Wayne Wadington and John Caruso are co-owners of the restaurant. Caruso's also offer antipastos, salads, newly invented and classic pasta dishes, authentic Italian entrees, brick oven pizzas, calzones, rolls, and heroes. Catering is available for up to 100 people.

For more information about Caruso's, visit www. carusosrestaurant. com.

About Caruso's:
Caruso's, co-owned by Wayne Wadington and John Caruso, is a casual pizzeria and trattoria for high quality and authentic Italian dishes. They offer antipastos, salads, newly invented and classic pasta dishes, authentic Italian entrees, brick oven pizza, calzones, rolls, and heroes. Catering is also available and Caruso's is open for lunch and dinner daily.

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A Closer Look at the 2005 Writers Notes Book Awards

A Closer Look at the 2005 Writers Notes Book Awards

Writers Notes Magazine takes a closer look at the 2005 Writers Notes Book Awards, defining eleven categories of independent publishing excellence.

(PRWEB) April 6, 2005

Each year, Writers Notes Magazine defines eleven categories of independent publishing excellence. Entries come from independent and small presses, self-published authors, and highly unique and short print runs.

“The difference between fine independent books and mass-produced publications is often the care and intelligence that goes into the pages, presentation, and production,” says Senior Editor Christopher Klim. “It reflects more of the way books used to be published.”

Christopher Klim is the highly praised and cult favorite author of Jesus Lives in Trenton and Everything Burns. In addition to shepherding the magazine, heÂ’ll release two books: his first juvenile fiction, Firecracker Jones Is On The Case (July 2005) and a much-anticipated satire of lottery millionaire winners, The Winners Circle (Sept 2005). Visit: www. ChristopherKlim. com.

Writers Notes Magazine takes a moment to explain the 2005 Book Award Winners.

(For a detailed look at each winner, visit http://hopepubs. home. comcast. net/winners. html (http://hopepubs. home. comcast. net/winners. html) AND http://hopepubs. home. comcast. net/WNBA2005More. pdf (http://hopepubs. home. comcast. net/WNBA2005More. pdf).)

Or view the mini-issue of the magazine with full book award coverage at: http://hopepubs. home. comcast. net/BookAwards. pdf (http://hopepubs. home. comcast. net/BookAwards. pdf).

Art Winner:

Ireland: Standing Stones to Stormont, Tom Quinn Kumpf, Devenish Press - Kumpf retells the old stories, while revealing their modern-day form with superb photographs.

General Fiction Winner:

Sing of the High Country, Jonathan Adam DeCoteau, Publish America - Captures an inarticulate resentment and gives it an accusing voice.

Commercial Winner:

The Copper Trader, Bill Abler, iUniverse - Makes it easy to put aside your concerns that the story trod well-traveled ground and just enjoy the ride.

Children Winner:

A is for Ark, Colleen & Michael Glenn Monroe, Storytime Press - We couldnÂ’t resist this latest approach to the alphabet wrapped around the timeless story of NoahÂ’s Ark.

Young Adult Winner:

The PeacockÂ’s Stone, Faith Richardson, Fox Song Books - With poetic phrasing and mythic images of ancient times, Richardson spins a fantasy tale that might exist in any year.

Culture Winner:

Whirlwind: The Godfather of Black Tennis, Doug Smith, Blue Eagle Publishing - Noted tennis writer Doug Smith delivers a gripping story of the life and times of this superb athlete, mentor, and visionary.

Business Winner:

The PayPal Wars, Eric M. Jackson, World Ahead Publishing - ItÂ’s a story of courage, belief, and a few tricky maneuvers to succeed whilst giving the people what they want.

Reference Winner:

The Illustrated To Think Like God: Pythagoras and Parmenides, The Origins of Philosophy, Arnold Hermann, Parmenides Publishing - Hermann illuminates lesser-known Greek figure Parmenides in this carefully constructed treatise on the early years of philosophy.

Home Winner:

Roux to Do: The Art of Cooking in Southeast Louisiana, The Junior League of Greater Covington, Favorite Recipes Press - Big name chefs lend a hand, but the charming festival art and sidebars will win you over. Cooks from the Deep South to Novia Scotia will find a roux or two in these pages to color their table.

Health/Self-Help Winner:

Personal Village: How to Have People in Your Life by Choice, Not Chance, Marvin Thomas, Milestone Books - Maps the human propensity for socialization and provides checklists and thought-provoking questions toward ways that we can create positive change, embrace circumstance, and, if need be, reconstruct our core families.

Legacy Winner:

Lamentation 9/11, E. L. Doctorow & David Finn, Ruder Finn Press – A lasting testament to the unbending soul of New York City and the boundless freedom of a country that was born in just such a moment and will survive them into the foreseeable future.

Press Contact:

Writers Notes Magazine

PO Box 11

Titusville, NJ 08560

Phone: (609) 818-1049

Fax: (609) 818-1913

Editor@hopepubs. com

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Independent Bank Reports First Quarter Profitability; Rapid Growth Continues; Assets top $70.5 Million, Deposits, $61 Million

Independent Bank Reports First Quarter Profitability; Rapid Growth Continues; Assets top $70.5 Million, Deposits, $61 Million

Independent Bank of Austin, a de novo state savings bank marking its first anniversary on June 6, disclosed first quarter 2006 results, including continued rapid growth, assets topping $70.5 million (up from $7.5 million at its start and closing in on its original five-year goal to be at $100 million). Deposits were $61 million and net profit was $166,000 after a set aside of $163,000 for loan loss reserves and $896,000 for income taxes. The CEO talks about new staff, economic activity, its loan portfolio and updates the outlook on a new permanent facility.

Lakeway & Georgetown, TX (PRWEB) June 6, 2006

Independent Bank of Austin, SSB, disclosed today total assets of $70.5 million of which $61.2 million was loans. Deposits were $62.5 million – up 18% – at March 31, 2006. Net profit for the first quarter was $166,000 after setting aside $163,000 for loan loss reserves and $86,000 for income taxes.

Lakeway-based Independent Bank, which only began operating in June with $7.5 million in capitalization, opened a limited service branch between Georgetown and Sun City in September. Management previously reported $53.6 million in assets, $45.9 million in deposits and $45.1 million in loans at year-end 2005.

“Although we are a private operation, our results are reported on the FDIC website. We want our communities, investors, depositors and customers to be aware of our continued solid growth,” said Denny Buchanan, President and CEO (Photo: www. ibankaustin. com/aboutus. html (http://www. ibankaustin. com/aboutus. html)) “After all, they are directly responsible for our success and our ability to meet the needs of a vibrant Central Texas economy.

“In the past quarter, the Board of Director’s announced Dana Gurley as Assistant Vice President and Branch Manager of the Georgetown Branch. Dana was previously a Personal Banker at that branch. In early May, Kim Beeney joined the firm as a Personal Banker in that branch, having previously worked at a local State Farm Insurance office,” Buchanan said.

Independent Bank began offering online banking capabilities to its customers seven months ago. Plans also call for adding Online Cash Management for its business accountholders.

“Since we are ‘The People’s Bank,’ we are devoted to delivering more new services, providing rapid lending response and offering competitive returns on customer deposits,” he emphasized. “New deposits help us fund our growing loan portfolio, primarily commercial development, residential construction and mortgages

Independent Bank offers a highly competitive Platinum Account paying a 4.0 percent to 4.60 percent (APY) interest rate. These accounts, available to individuals and corporations, require deposits of $100,000 or more, with unlimited check writing for individuals. For all current rates, see www. ibankaustin. com or call 512-261-3355.

“Our original objective was to generate $100 million in assets for Independent Bank within five to 10 years,” Buchanan noted. “Our revised estimate is that Independent Bank will be near $90 million on our 18-month anniversary and at $120 million within three years.”

2006 Lending & Economic Activity

Independent Bank remains on track to finalize acquisition of a new site for its corporate headquarters, with construction set for this fall on a 3,500-square-foot facility near the Lakeway-Bee Cave area of busy Ranch Road 620. Plans call for relocating operations there in early 2007.

That will be in close proximity to a 375-acre planned community, Falconhead West, recently announced by Taylor Woodrow, in partnership with Ryland Homes and Drees Homes. The development, next to 450 homesites in Falconhead, will begin with infrastructure construction late this summer, Buchanan noted.

Meanwhile, Seton Healthcare Network and Triad Hospitals Inc. have teamed up to construct a $105 million hospital at the crossroads of Hwy. 183A and Hwy. 1431. Groundbreaking on the 151-bed, 260,000 s. f. facility will be in July. Additionally, a new report by the real estate firm of CB Richard Ellis indicates that the Austin office market is strengthening and rental rates are continuing their upward rise.

“The expanding list of real estate and construction projects is producing a ripple effect in the suburbs for both residential and office-retail construction,” he reported. Demand for construction lending in this area of Travis and Williamson counties remains strong, with small business ventures and service businesses starting up on a regular basis.

“Fortunately, we are well situated in this high-growth corridor between Bee Cave and Georgetown,” the CEO emphasized.

Independent Bank is approved by the Texas Savings and Mortgage Lending Dept. and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. (FDIC). Its deposits are insured by the FDIC.

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR INTERVIEWS:

Denny Buchanan, President/CEO, Independent Bank of Austin SSB, Lakeway, TX, 512-261-3355, fax 512-261-3356; denny@ibankaustin. com

Preston F. Kirk, APR, Kirk Public Relations, Austin, TX, 830-693-4447.

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Planetree Receives Award for Excellence in Patient Centered Care

Planetree Receives Award for Excellence in Patient Centered Care

Connecticut-based non-profit: Planetree, the organization that has pioneered personalizing the healthcare experience for patients and their families, has been awarded top honors in the 2006 Annual Picker Institute Awards for Excellence in Patient Centered Care.

Derby, CT (PRWEB) October 28, 2006

Connecticut-based non-profit: Planetree, the organization that has pioneered personalizing the healthcare experience for patients and their families, has been awarded top honors in the 2006 Annual Picker Institute Awards for Excellence in Patient Centered Care.

The award presentations, made in London, England on October 25, acknowledge individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to improving the lives of patients and their experiences of the healthcare system.

"We are honored by this recognition from the Picker Institute of both the many years of patient-centered work that Planetree has been involved in, and of the many pioneering hospitals that have joined us in truly putting the needs of patients first," said Planetree's President Susan Frampton.

Planetree won its award for excellence in recognition of the organization's pioneering work in advocating the concept of a patient-centered approach to the environments in which healthcare services are provided.

Founded in 1978 by a patient in San Francisco, Planetree is an internationally recognized leader in the growing movement to transform the health care experience by considering health care facilities, processes and protocols from the perspective of the patient. The Planetree model of delivering care is one that prioritizes patient comfort, dignity, empowerment and well-being. The Planetree Membership Network is comprised of over 100 hospitals, long-term care facilities, outpatient clinics, and health resource centers.

The Picker Institute is an independent non-profit organization that promotes the advancement of patient-centered care, and the improvement of patients' experiences and interactions with healthcare providers.

The Picker Institute's founder, Harvey Picker, said: "Our mission is to improve the healthcare provider's understanding of each patient's values, preferences and expressed needs. Through these awards, we recognize people whose work has provided outstanding advances toward our common mission."

PLANETREE MEDIA CONTACT:

Lisa Donnarumma

203.732.1377

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Book Delivers Latest ADHD Research, Treatments & Results

Book Delivers Latest ADHD Research, Treatments & Results

Sanford Newmark, MD, addresses the rise of ADHD based on scientific evidence, including toxins such as pesticides, and provides proven natural treatments virtually unknown by most pediatricians, professionals and the general public

Tucson, AZ (PRWEB) May 19, 2010

A new book on ADHD by Dr. Sanford Newmark, one of America’s leading integrative pediatricians, is being hailed by preeminent doctors, psychiatrists and researchers as a must-read for professionals and parents alike who want answers to the rise of ADHD based on the best research available and a treatment plan proven to help children with ADHD or ADHD symptoms.

ADHD WIthout Drugs: A Guide to the Natural Treatment of Children with ADHD includes a foreword by Dr. Andrew Weil and is distinguished by its integrative approach, which draws from the wisdom of both conventional and alternative medicine, focusing on the initial use of natural treatments with the least chance of harmful side effects. Parents can implement many of the strategies on their own.

The incidence of American children taking medication for ADHD has risen 1,600 percent over the past 30 years, with up to 10 percent of children now being diagnosed with this disease. Dr. Newmark’s book explains the array of causes for this increase based on the most current research. He outlines effective treatment strategies used over the past decade that have significantly helped children with ADHD, frequently without medication.

From Nurtured Heart Publications and available in bookstores everywhere, ADHD Without Drugs also addresses: accurate diagnosis of ADHD and the causes of misdiagnoses, the neurobiology of ADHD, the surprising implications of nutrition, food sensitivities and toxins, such as pesticides, as well as practical guidelines to feed, supplement, parent, educate and appreciate children with ADHD. The final chapter examines the most common ADHD medications and their risks and benefits. A bibliography of studies cited, plus additional resources and an eight-step treatment summary for parents complete the 237-page book.

About the Author
Sanford Newmark, MD, is an integrative pediatrician with 23 years of experience. He is the first graduate of Dr. Andrew Weil’s Program in Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona to practice general pediatrics, and is now part of the program faculty. Dr. Newmark is currently in private practice at Whole Child Wellness near San Francisco. He is a frequent presenter on the topics of pediatric integrative medicine, autism and ADHD.

Advance Reviews
“I strongly recommend Dr. Newmark’s book to all parents, relatives, and friends of children with ADHD, as well as the teachers, doctors, and other professionals who work with them. Before going to the pharmacy, we can use an integrative approach to help these children succeed and fulfill their true potential. Dr. Newmark tells us just how to do that.” — from the book’s foreword by Dr. Andrew Weil, Harvard-trained physician, integrative medicine pioneer, best-selling author, and one of Time magazine’s 2005 World’s 100 Most Influential People.

“Dr. Newmark has finally crafted the book that I have long been wishing for: a wonderful self-help guide for parents looking for a thoughtful and science-based natural approach to treating ADHD. This integrative/holistic style reduces or eliminates the need for stimulant medications and offers sound advice about diet, sleep, nutrients, herbs and other key modalities. The book radiates a balanced wisdom that comes so rarely from practicing physicians today”.— Scott Shannon, MD Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist; author of Please Don’t Label My Child; editor of Handbook of Complementary and Alternative Therapies in Mental Health.

“If I had one book to read about ADHD, this is it. It is well-written, practical and filled with the uncommonly good common sense of an experienced and compassionate clinician with fair-minded and rigorous reviews of the state of the science.” — Kathi Kemper, MD, MPH, Director, Center for Integrative Medicine; Professor of Pediatrics, Social Science Health Policy, and Family and Community Medicine, Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center

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Professor of Finance Helps Young Children Understand Money Management With New Storybook Series

Professor of Finance Helps Young Children Understand Money Management With New Storybook Series

The recent passage of financial reforms attempts to cover numerous shortcomings in our existing financial environment. In such a complicated economy, it is more important than ever to provide children with a foundation of good financial skill set.

Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA (PRWEB) September 14, 2010

The recent passage of financial reforms attempts to cover numerous shortcomings in our existing financial environment. In such a complicated economy, it is more important than ever to provide children with a foundation of good financial skill set.

Inspired by his wish to prepare his two young sons to be “good financial citizens,” California State University-Dominguez Hills professor of finance Dr. Prakash Dheeriya authored Finance for Kidz (http://www. finance4kidz. com/), a 20-volume series of books that teaches children about basic financial concepts such as wants, needs, inflation, deflation, money management, identity theft, personal finance and planning for the future.

Finance For Kidz is designed as an educational tool as well as an enjoyable read at home for parents and their children. “We teach our kids to be careful about all sorts of dangerous things, such as when crossing the street, or washing hands before eating,” said Dr. Dheeriya. “We spend a lot of time on their physical health, but rarely do we teach them anything about their financial health.”

Written in storybook form for elementary age school children, the series explains key financial concepts through children’s day-to-day experiences and in a jargon-free language. Dheeriya says the main thing children need to learn about personal finance is that “money is just a tool.”

“If they understand what it can and cannot do, then they will be able to control it, rather than live life as if money controlled them,” he says.

Dheeriya, a frequent speaker at conferences, chambers of commerce and rotary clubs, has taught finance and investments for more than 20 years. He lives near Los Angeles with his wife and children.

Http://www. finance4kidz. com/ (http://www. finance4kidz. com/)

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Nurses and On-Line Educational Courses

Nurses and On-Line Educational Courses

With the shortage of nurses, long shifts, and dedication to their families, it is hard for a nurse to find time to obtain the required education to renew their licenses. Now nurses can find time to educate themselves from the comfort of their home. Licensed professionals are offering on-line courses.

Jacksonville, FL (PRWEB) June 6, 2006

Do nurses have time to continue their education? Not really. With the shortage of nurses, long shifts, and dedication to their families, it is hard for a nurse to find time to obtain the required education to renew their licenses.

Nurses are required to update their knowledge and skills through education course. Some states including Florida required 24 credits hours every two years – others require less or more. All courses need to be approved by a licensed occupational healthcare professional. Some courses are one hour and worth one credit. Other courses are a full day and eight credits.

Numerous states have brokers approved by their Department of Health to monitor nursing licenses – either a renewal or a new application from a recent nursing graduate. These Contact Education (CE) Brokers certify healthcare professionals to teach and educate nurses on their continuing education. Hospitals, universities, colleges, private organizations, and healthcare professionals are all offering courses for nurses to obtain their CE units.

The new trend is on-line courses… Why? Because nurses can find time during their busy schedules to educate themselves from the comfort of their home. It is easier for nurses to read a courses while their children complete their homework or are asleep in their beds.

One of these on-line websites that offer Nursing Continuing Education courses is www. CEUnetwork. org. The owner of this on-line service is Helen Malin-Christiansen and after 14 years as a CE Provider and a nurse, she decided to branch out to offer on-line nursing courses. Ms. Malin-Christiansen stated, “This new trend will take off once nurses understand how convenient working from their homes will be!”

This release can be found on CEU Network Website at http://www. CEUNetwork. org (http://www. CEUNetwork. org).

# # #

Richmond Non-profit Wins Fairfax Contract to Run Crisis and Stabilization Center for Youth

Richmond Non-profit Wins Fairfax Contract to Run Crisis and Stabilization Center for Youth

This center will serve approximately eight children from 12 to 17 years old who are in behavioral or emotional crisis and are not able to remain in their current living situation.

Richmond, VA (PRWEB) September 9, 2006

United Methodist Family Services (UMFS) was the top candidate chosen to run the newly formed crisis and stabilization center in Fairfax County. This center will serve approximately eight children from 12 to 17 years old who are in behavioral or emotional crisis and are not able to remain in their current living situation. UMFS will work closely with Fairfax County who is providing the facility for this crisis and stabilization center to offer this much needed service.

Located in Richmond, Virginia, UMFS is nationally recognized in its field for the extraordinary results it achieves toward helping emotionally and behaviorally challenged children overcome life’s challenges and achieve their potential. UMFS programs adhere to a strengths-based approach that builds upon the strengths of each child.

“The services we provide at UMFS change lives and empower families. We step in when others give up,” says Greg Peters, CEO of UMFS. “Our commitment to quality programs, our well trained and caring staff, and our ‘never give up philosophy’ help us reach kids and empower them to succeed.”

UMFS is one of the few social services agencies that has developed tools to constantly evaluate and measure if its therapies are effective. The positive results of the programs are indicative of the success of UMFS. In 2005, 82% of residential treatment center youth in Richmond were returned to a less restrictive environment. A 12-month follow-up showed 77% of youth were in school or working, 77% had no negative contact with police, and none were pregnant or had fathered a child. UMFS’ success and expertise was a main factor in the award of this contract.

UMFS is excited to expand its residential services to Northern Virginia and looks forward to the challenge of turning more lives right side up.

Originally chartered as the Virginia Annual Conference Orphanage, UMFS has served children, families and individuals since 1900. Today, a network of seven centers serves all areas of Virginia and offers a continuum of services to include: treatment foster care, adoption residential treatment, Charterhouse School and therapeutic day program, counseling, mentoring and in-home family services. UMFS is licensed by the Virginia Department of Social Services and Virginia Department of Mental Health, Mental Retardation and Substance Abuse Services, Virginia Department of Education and accredited by the Council on Accreditation and the Virginia Association of Independent Specialized Educational Facilities.

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CareNow® Announces the Addition of Dr. Maria Cuadros, MD and Dr. Erica Sails, MD as Associate Medical Directors

CareNow® Announces the Addition of Dr. Maria Cuadros, MD and Dr. Erica Sails, MD as Associate Medical Directors

Dr. Maria Cuadros, M. D. and Dr. Erica Sails M. D. Join CareNow’s staff of board certified physicians as Associate Medical Directors.

Dallas, TX (PRWEB) June 10, 2010

CareNow® announces the addition of two physicians to their staff of board certified physicians, Dr. Maria Cuadros, MD and Dr. Erica Sails, MD.

Dr. Maria Cuadros, MD received her medical degree from the National University of San Agustin. She completed her residency at the University of Kansas Medical Center, Family Medicine Department in Kansas City, Kansas. Dr. Cuadros is board certified through the American Board of Family Medicine.

Dr. Erica Sails, MD received her medical degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago in Chicago, Illinois. She completed her residency at Hinsdale Family Medicine Residency Program in Hinsdale, Illinois. Dr. Sails is board certified through the American Board of Family Medicine. Dr. Sails joined CareNow in 2010.

“We are very pleased that Dr. Cuadros and Dr. Sails have joined our team of physicians. Their experience in Family Medicine will be an asset to our patients” said Dr. Marc Anduss, Chief Medical Officer CareNow®.

CareNow® has been providing North Texas with over 15 years of service and now has 22 locations around the DFW area. CareNow® offers family care, urgent care, and physical therapy, occupational medicine, as well as travel medicine. The medical centers are open late seven days a week and accept over 30 insurance plans. All CareNow® locations have qualified physicians on staff and the group is one of the only primary care facilities in Texas to voluntarily pass the rigorous certification requirements of the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Healthcare (AAAHC).

For more information contact:
Cindy Kirkpatrick
Phone: (972) 906-8160
Fax: (972) 745-4336

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Pharmacy Automation 'What Ifs' Answered at ASHP Midyear Clinical Meeting

Pharmacy Automation 'What Ifs' Answered at ASHP Midyear Clinical Meeting

What if hospital pharmacies could automate the bar-coding, packaging, storage and dispensing of unit doses? Swisslog booth #600 will be giving presentations on the latest advancements in pharmacy automation at the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) Midyear Clinical Meeting and Exhibition held December 2-6, 2007 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Denver, Colo. (PRWEB) November 12, 2007

What if hospital pharmacies could automate the bar-coding, packaging, storage and dispensing of unit doses? Innovative automated drug management systems are making it possible for hospitals to do just that.

Swisslog booth #600 will be giving presentations on the latest advancements in pharmacy automation at the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) Midyear Clinical Meeting and Exhibition held December 2-6, 2007 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

In addition to the ongoing presentations, Swisslog's PillPick®, a complete packaging, storage and dispensing system that barcodes unit-dose medications will be on-site. A state-of-the-art technology, PillPick was introduced to the United States a few years ago, and today over 45 PillPick systems have been sold worldwide. These systems will produce nearly 20 million unit doses per year and enable staff to improve patient care.

One of PillPick's most unique capabilities is dispensing medication onto the patented PickRing. The PickRing is a 24-hour supply of bar-coded medications on a flexible ring, and it can be transported to nursing units in cassette drawers, carts, or by pneumatic tube systems. Custom configurable PickRings can be created per patient, for routine cart fill or as part of ongoing medicine cabinet replenishment.

Other Swisslog healthcare solutions featured include the TransLogic Pneumatic Tube System, which improves drug turnaround time and reduces staff labor utilized on delivery duties. Swisslog offers a full range of solutions to meet the ever-changing needs of the healthcare market.

About Swisslog:
Swisslog is a global provider of integrated logistics solutions for warehouses, distribution centers and hospitals. The comprehensive portfolio ranges from building complex warehouses and distribution centers including Swisslog's software, in-house logistics solutions for hospitals as well as software and consulting services in the field of supply chain management. Swisslog's solutions optimize the customer's production, logistics and distribution processes in order to increase their flexibility, responsiveness and quality of service, while minimizing logistics costs. Headquartered in Buchs/Aarau, Switzerland, Swisslog currently employs 1,850 staff in 23 countries.

Swisslog is a world leader in healthcare logistics automation having installed material transport and pharmacy automation systems in more than 2,000 hospitals and pharmacies around the world. To learn more about Swisslog's healthcare solutions, visit our website at www. swisslog. com and click on Healthcare Solutions.

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New Book Reaches Millions Devastated by Hepatitis C - Governor Proclaims November 3rd as National Hepatitis C Day

New Book Reaches Millions Devastated by Hepatitis C - Governor Proclaims November 3rd as National Hepatitis C Day

Topeka, KS (PRWEB) October 28, 2003 -- Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius has declared Nov. 3, 2003, as National Hepatitis C Day in an effort to educate people about the disease that affects more than 400 million people worldwide and 4 million in the U. S. 10,000 people die of hepatitis C every year in the U. S., and this figure is expected to increase to around 25,000 by the year 2020. Governor Sebelius presented the proclamation to Dr. Shekhar Challa, Topeka, coinciding with the timely launch of his book and CD-ROM titled “Winning the Hepatitis C Battle.”

Topeka, KS (PRWEB) October 31, 2003

Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius has declared Nov. 3, 2003 as National Hepatitis C Day in an effort to educate people about the disease that affects more than 400 million people worldwide and 4 million in the U. S. 10,000 people die of hepatitis C every year in the U. S., and this figure is expected to increase to around 25,000 by the year 2020.

Governor Sebelius presented the proclamation to Dr. Shekhar Challa, Topeka, coinciding with the timely launch of his book and CD-ROM titled "Winning the Hepatitis C Battle."

“I urge all citizens to make everyone aware of the importance of preventing this disease so that we might begin to reduce the devastating impact it has on our population," said Governor Sebelius.

“Winning the Hepatitis C Battle” outlines the most current medical information on the virus, reaching out through personal patient stories to touch the millions devastated by hepatitis C. The book and CD-ROM walks the reader through each step of the hepatitis C process – from learning about the liver where hep C strikes to understanding treatment options and the sometimes debilitating side effects.

"Winning the Hepatitis C Battle" has also been awarded as a finalist for the 2003 Reader's Preference Editor's Choice Award in the health category. 

Author Shekhar Challa, M. D., sees firsthand the need for both more public education and encouragement of those with risk factors to get tested. "The lack of information can be deadly," said Challa. "The number of hepatitis C deaths is expected to triple within the next 10 years."

In the book and companion CD-ROM, “Winning the Hepatitis C Battle,” Challa offers educational information to help people protect themselves from this disease, and he reaches out to those already suffering its devastating impact.

To win the hepatitis C battle, patients need courage and determination to undertake a usually year-long treatment process with often debilitating side effects.

Long called “the silent epidemic,” hepatitis C victims have few symptoms until they’ve had the disease for 20 to 25 years. But “silent” also applies to the amount of attention this virulent disease has received. Although it hits the news when celebrities like Naomi Judd, Pamela Anderson and Larry Hagman announce they have hepatitis C, many people are unfamiliar with it – how it is spread, how it is diagnosed, how it is treated.

Four million Americans are infected with hepatitis C and at least 25,000 new cases are diagnosed every year. WhatÂ’s unique about this disease is the rapid pace at which researchers have developed treatments.

In the 14 years since the virus was identified, new drugs have brought hope to those suffering from hepatitis C. Now, with a combination treatment of two drugs, there is a 50 percent response to the treatment. Just 10 years ago, there was only a single-digit treatment response.

“It’s tough how your friends and family react to you,” says Denise, a hepatitis C patient who has a sustained virological response or ‘cure.’ “There’s lots of misinformation out there about hepatitis C. Even medical people don’t understand it and know that there is a way to be cured. You have to educate people about this disease.”

Winning the Hepatitis C Battle is now available for purchase. The book is accompanied by a CD-ROM that is also an educational resource for hepatitis C patients and contains special information for the family and friends of those going through the hepatitis C treatment. For more information on hepatitis C or to purchase the book/CD-ROM, visit www. hepcbattle. com or call toll-free 866-746-1448.

-more- 

 page 2 of 2

New Book Reaches Millions

Author Bio:

Shekhar Challa, M. D. has owned a gastroenterology and hepatology private practice in Topeka, Kan., since 1987. He is a board-certified gastroenterologist, president of Kansas Medical Clinic and CEO of Osteoporosis Services. Dr. Challa has lectured on hepatitis C and other gastrointestinal and liver topics throughout Kansas, as well as internationally in India and Nepal. He is on numerous boards of directors, including U. S. Bank and the West-Central Osteoporosis Board of Proctor & Gamble, an Alliance for Better Bone Health.

Hep C Help

PREVENTION: Hepatitis C is primarily blood borne. Don't share needles. Don't share straws or other such items used to inhale drugs. Implements like toothbrushes or shaving razors could also transmit HCV if they come in contact with infected blood. The risk from sexual activity is very low (less than 3 percent) unless it involves multiple partners and blood contact. There is no risk from casual contact.

IF YOU GET IT: Don't drink alcohol. Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B – co-infection makes the prognosis worse.

WORST CASE SCENARIO: Liver damage can be so severe that a transplant is necessary -- but about 9,300 people are already on the waiting list. About 1,000 people die waiting each year.

TO BE TESTED NOW: See your doctor. Call 1-800-Go-Liver, the American Liver Foundation's toll-free hotline, to find local support. Most health insurance companies cover for antibody testing and if necessary, additional testing. 

FUTURE TESTING: Home Access Health Corp., which offers a self-administered, mail-in test and counseling-referral service for the AIDS virus, has a similar test for hepatitis C that is currently in clinical trials. If approved, the $40-$50 service could be available next year.

Source: American Liver Foundation, Centers for Disease Control, Chronicle research

Winning the Hepatitis C Battle

By Shekhar Challa, M. D.

Book Release Date: November 2003

Contact: Erin Williams

  2200 W. 6th St.

  Topeka, Kan. 66606

  (785)354-1860

  (785)354-1255 fax

  (785)608-9594 cell

  erinwilliams30@aol. com

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New ANT+ Digital Interface Links Fitness Equipment with Watches and Body Worn Sensors for First-Ever Unification of Indoor and Outdoor Activity

New ANT+ Digital Interface Links Fitness Equipment with Watches and Body Worn Sensors for First-Ever Unification of Indoor and Outdoor Activity

New ANT+ FIT1e interface enables the first-ever two way digital link between fitness equipment and ANT+ compatible watches and sensors.

Cochrane, Alberta (PRWEB) March 20, 2009

ANT™ Wireless, a division of Dynastream Innovations Inc. (www. thisisant. com), today announced the new ANT+ FIT1e interface that enables the first-ever two way digital link between fitness equipment and ANT+ compatible watches and sensors. This key unification of indoor and outdoor fitness data management launches a new era in two way personal area communications and wellness management.

Optimized for active fitness environments such as the cardio floor or indoor cycling studio, the FIT1e interface facilitates communication between fitness equipment and ANT+ devices such as watches, heart rate monitors (HRMs), bicycle power meters, etc. This new digital standard is designed to pair efficiently and eliminate interference while managing more than 80 devices in proximity. The FIT1e technology is both forward compatible with the new and emerging ANT+ devices as well as backward compatible with legacy analog heart rate monitors.

The FIT1e is currently in development with an ANT+ working group of leading fitness brands who are integrating the FIT1e module into their gym equipment. Garmin's FR60 watch is the first ANT+ fitness watch providing an interface with fitness equipment, and details were announced March 17, 2009, at the 2009 International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association (IHRSA). The watch captures data transmitted from the fitness equipment for web upload and review afterward.

"The integration of the FIT1e module is a critical step in the advancement of fitness equipment and digital personal area network (PAN) communications," said Jim Rooney, President, Dynastream Innovations Inc. "This is the only off-the-shelf solution that incorporates the reliability and simplicity of ANT+ digital interoperability with the advanced functionality of exercise equipment.

An ANT+ 'LINK HERE' logo identifies fitness equipment with the integrated FIT1e interface and also highlights the pairing zone. The interoperable device features are then enabled simply by linking a watch and/or HRM to the equipment. This allows all exercise activity, whether indoors or out, to be collected for complete fitness tracking. Club owners also gain new opportunities for the development of new device-based programs, retail product sales and member recruitment.

"This simplified transfer of activity and wellness information to internet programs is of great value to fitness enthusiasts and everyone interested in independent health management," added Rooney. "The FIT1e provides an integral link in the gathering, interpreting and sharing of this data for optimized personal health." 

The ANT+ fitness initiative further expands the already-established ANT+ ecosystem. Over 120 companies are now members of the open ANT+ Alliance which leads the fitness and wellness industries in innovative solutions for data communication, storage and display.

About ANT™ / ANT+

ANT+ facilitates interoperability between manufacturer's devices and the collection, automatic transfer and tracking of sensor data for monitoring information anywhere, anytime. The key advantage of this unique managed network is device specific interoperability which enables wireless communication with other ANT+ products. Applicable in sport, wellness management and home health monitoring, ANT+ (built on the base ANT protocol) defines device profiles that specify data formats, channel parameters and network key. The ANT+ Alliance is an open special interest group of companies who have adopted the ANT+ promise of interoperability. The Alliance ensures standardized communications through optimized brand value and partnerships with other top tier products. As of Mar 12, 2009 there are 120 members in the ANT+ Alliance.

ANT is a proven protocol and silicon solution for ultra-low power (ULP) practical wireless networking applications. Designed for 2.4 GHz operation, ANT is perfectly suited for any kind of low data rate sensor network topologies in personal area networks (PANs) and practical wireless sensor networks (WSN). ANT has been intentionally engineered to simplify wireless network development and maximize network efficiency. ANT-powered nodes can operate for years on a coin cell battery compared to months for other technologies. Rich in capabilities, ANT provides reliable data communications, flexible and adaptive network operation and cross-talk immunity. www. thisisant. com

The company behind ANT Wireless is Dynastream Innovations Inc. Dynastream was established in 1998 and became a wholly owned subsidiary of Garmin International, Inc. in December 2006. Dynastream is based in Cochrane, Alberta, Canada, and is a world innovator in the research and development of inertial and wireless technology. www. dynastream. com

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Cook Ross, Inc. Launches CultureVision(TM), an Online Cultural Competency Training Solution for Healthcare Providers

Cook Ross, Inc. Launches CultureVision(TM), an Online Cultural Competency Training Solution for Healthcare Providers

Cook Ross, one of the countryÂ’s leading diversity training and consulting companies, has launched CultureVision(TM), an online cultural competency training tool for healthcare providers.

Silver Springs, MD (PRWEB) June 12, 2005

Cook Ross, one of the countryÂ’s leading diversity training and consulting companies, has launched CultureVision(TM), an online cultural competency training tool for healthcare providers.

“Cultural competency has become a critical focus in healthcare,” said Howard Ross, president of Cook Ross, Inc. “The changing demographics in our society have created increasing challenges in understanding how culture, race, religion and ethnicity impact patient care and treatment protocols. CultureVision brings cultural competency right to the healthcare provider.”

Using Internet-based technology, CultureVision is on-the spot access for doctors, nurses and other practitioners to obtain the information they need to ask the right questions, treat patients in a culturally appropriate manner, and look for culturally specific diagnostic support for cultural groups. Within five minutes and with a few mouse clicks, providers can get the information they need to improve their ability to care for patients.

“CultureVision takes volumes of research and information and puts it at the fingertips of the people who need it the most and can do the most good with it,” Ross said.

Immigrants and the children of immigrants were responsible for 70 percent of the total U. S. population growth in the 1990s, according to a recent Washington Post article. “The blending of cultural identities and living in an age of complex cultural realities leads healthcare providers to the necessity of transcultural care,” the article noted.

That is the case at Bon Secours Health System, a Catholic health care ministry headquartered in Marriottsville, Md., which owns, manages, or joint ventures 20 acute-care hospitals, one psychiatric hospital, eight nursing care facilities, eight assisted living facilities, and several home care and hospice programs located in 12 communities in nine states, primarily on the East Coast.

Bon Secours was a major supporter of Cook Ross in the development of CultureVision, and has been working with the company for the past eight years on cultural competency training and development.

“We’re in an environment that is clearly multicultural and our patients come from a variety of different backgrounds,” said Everard Rutledge, Ph. D., vice president of community health for Bon Secours Health System. “We needed a tool that would enhance communication in the care setting, whether it be a hospital or long-term care facility.”

Dr. Rutledge said CultureVision has helped Bon Secours caregivers become more culturally sensitive to the healthcare needs of different populations. It has helped them with issues ranging from diet to death and dying.

“Understanding cultural competency is a necessary skill if we’re going to be quality providers of healthcare,” he said, adding that Bon Secours requires its executive staff to undergo Cook Ross’ cultural competency training and is beginning to train nurses and other staff members who come in contact with patients. “CultureVision is an important instrument in the toolbox, along with interpreters and cultural competency training and development.”

About Cook Ross

Cook Ross is one of the countryÂ’s leading organizational change and diversity consultancies, based in Silver Spring, Md. For nearly 20 years, the company has provided cultural competency solutions through its training, consulting products and services. Cook Ross believes that cultural competency can be learned and developed and can lead to unprecedented growth and vastly improved productivity, morale, internal communication, leadership, and customer satisfaction. Cook Ross has developed The Diversity Tool Kit (www. thediversitytoolkit. com) as another educational medium for learning diversity and cultural competency in all settings. In helping organizations develop cultural competence, the company empowers employees with a set of new skills, enabling them to relate more positively to customers and each other.

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LMS Custom Logo Products Announces Launch of Website and its Ability to Aid the Health and Wellness Industry

LMS Custom Logo Products Announces Launch of Website and its Ability to Aid the Health and Wellness Industry

The LMS Custom Logo Products Company announces the launch of their website www. lmscustomlogoproducts. com, and plans to cater towards the health and wellness industry as an affordable means for developing promotional marketing campaigns.

Charleston, SC (PRWEB) June 6, 2008

The LMS Custom Logo Products Company recently launched their website, www. lmscustomlogoproducts. com, with the desire to provide superior promotional products for existing clients, at a reasonable cost and with superior customer service, all from the comfort of the World Wide Web. As a grass roots company originally centered on the health and wellness industry; they are continually offering a vast array of promotional marketing tools available to all. With their affordable pricing, extensive product lists and shipping convenience they desire to set themselves apart from their competition. With exceptional customer service as LMS Custom Logo Products' base, they are able to offer a multitude of products to clients looking to purchase promotional materials of all sorts for their association and/or cause. It is the wish of the LMS Custom Logo Products Company that their dedication to superior levels of customer service will only be enhanced by the recent launch of their website.

As a promotion and marketing material based company, Lmscustomlogoproducts. com presents a multi-platform product list to their clients of: apparel, drink ware, key chains, writing instruments, post it notes, etc. As well as the ability to create a customized logo for implementation into the products to which their clients purchase. From the inception of the company, efforts have remained constant to cater towards those searching for great products at a great price without having to make bulk orders. With this in mind, the company hopes their newly launched website, www. lmscustomlogoproducts. com, will now be the primary tool of their clients, offering them the ability to review, design, and purchase their products at anytime of day, any day of the week without the hassles involved in physically visiting a company's store site.

As a promotional marketing company, the LMS Custom Logo Products Company caters to everyone looking for superior products at reasonable rates-especially those affiliated with the health and wellness industry. Culminating in a company which caters to local and nationwide groups wanting to advertise while remaining cost conscious. Another primary focus is on impeccable quality of products and service, LMS Custom Logo Products hopes their website www. lmscustomlogoproducts. com will continue to provide quality promotional products, while generating a substantial branding mark and educating others on the inherent benefits of promotional marketing. According to a recent study, "76.1% of respondents could recall the advertiser's name on a promotional product that they had received in the past 12 months. In addition, 75.4% of respondents said they kept their promotional product because it was useful."

In addition to the benefits associated with www. lmscustomlogoproducts. com's presence as an online resource for existing clientele, the company hopes to establish themselves with new clients seeking to drive traffic to their particular business or website, improve response of their direct mail campaigns, increase referrals, improve repeat business, as well as to improve employee morale.

Additional information maybe obtained by contacting Leticia Stokes at 800-878-0832 or visit www. lmscustomlogoproducts. com

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Home and Bedroom Furniture Adds Keetsa Mattresses Line of Affordable Memory Foam Mattresses

Home and Bedroom Furniture Adds Keetsa Mattresses Line of Affordable Memory Foam Mattresses

Home and Bedroom adds Keetsa Mattresses, Nygard Home Bedding and Bergman Home Bedding to give customers more options in the company's line of discounted bedroom furniture. High-quality memory foam mattresses, pillows, foundations, frames and bedding ensembles allow for one stop shopping.

Houston, TX (PRWEB) February 17, 2009

Home and Bedroom Furniture has added Keetsa Mattresses' line of Organic Memory Foam Mattresses to its inventory of discount home designs. Nygard Home Bedding and Bergman Home Bedding also represent the latest additions to Home-and-Bedroom. com's continued commitment to offer beautiful furniture at affordable prices. These mattresses and comforters enable Home and Bedroom to offer its unique selection of discount beds and bedroom furniture along with top-quality mattresses, pillows, foundations, frames and bedding ensembles. As a result, visitors to the site will now find everything they need to make over their bedrooms in one convenient location. To help shoppers get their bedrooms set for the Holidays, Home and Bedroom is offering an additional 10% savings off of their already discounted prices until the end of the year.

Keetsa Mattresses are one of the very few mattresses that are both eco friendly and made from memory foam. They are produced in a sustainable way that aligns with today's organic-minded homeowners. Long-lasting, extra healthy comfort at a very affordable price is directly in line with the company's business philosophy. In addition to Keetsa Mattresses, Home and Bedroom Furniture is also pleased to introduce Nygard Home Bedding and Bergman Home Bedding ensembles to its showroom. A soft luxuious line of bedding, Nygard Home designs meet the needs of the contemporary lifestyle. They transform the home into a relaxing getaway while creating a mood of luxury and sophistication. Similarly, Bergman Home's toile and floral comforters metamorphose the bedroom into a garden oasis.

"Keetsa mattresses are particularly amenable to our line of platform beds from Hillsdale Furniture, Lifestyle Solutions and Fashion Bed Group," says Home and Bedroom spokesperson Ben Weissman, explaining how the new manufacturers complement the company's existing inventory. He adds, "The beautiful comforters Nygard Home Bedding and Bergman Home Bedding provide the perfect finishing touch." To get Home and Bedroom's additional 10% percent savings, just enter the Code "holidays" into the coupon box at the bottom of the checkout page.

According to a TNS Retail Forward report released during the second half of 2008, "Shoppers are trading down to save money and are seeking one-stop shopping venues and stores closer to home to save time and gasoline. Discount and value retailers are benefiting from an influx of cost-conscious shoppers at the expense of conventional and high-end retailers."

Although Home and Bedroom Furniture strives to accommodate homeowners in the convenience department, the company doesn't believe that quality should have to be sacrificed for the sake of affordability. To that end, Home-and-Bedroom. com continues with it's very successful lines of South Shore Furniture, Prepac Furniture, Fashion Bed Group and Hillsdale Furniture, adhering to it's mission to position itself as the leading site for quality bedroom furniture at discount prices.

Remodeling homeowners who want to give their bedrooms a complete makeover in one shopping stop can learn more about Home-and-Bedroom's newest additions from Keetsa Mattresses, Nygard Home Bedding and Bergman Home Bedding, visit Home and Bedroom Furniture online at http://www. home-and-bedroom. com.

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