idiotsstew

10 Tips to Medical Spa Startup Success

2012-01-31T04:48:00.000-08:00

10 Tips to Medical Spa Startup Success

Between 2002 and 2004, the medical spa industry grew by 109%. The demand is far from being met, and 2005 is going to see the largest number of Medical Spa openings yet. If you are going to open a Medical Spa this year, check out these 10 tips to Medical Spa Startup Success.

Las Vegas, NV (PRWEB) April 26, 2005

ÂEven though the Medical Spa industry is still in itÂs infancy, I am beginning to see some trendsÂ says Jeff Russell, the CEO of MedSpa Financing. ÂWeÂve compiled the following 10 tips for those considering opening a medical spa.Â

DonÂt try and re-invent the wheel, learn from our experience, here are 10 tips that will help you open a successful and profitable Medical Spa.

1. Have sufficient funds

DonÂt even think about opening a Medical Spa unless you have the capital needed to bring it through the startup and first year of operation. Invariably, your planning will not deal with all of the unforeseen issues that can occur in the MedSpa industry. From regulatory compliance changes and training costs, to increased marketing costs. Under-capitalization is a leading indicator of business failure. You should considering a combination of various financing strategies from leasing to working capital.

2. Talk with other doctors who have successful, operating Medical Spas Ask them what they would do the same, and what they would do differently. We are starting to see some established Medical Spas out there, try and learn from their experiences and best practices.

3. Join associations that help new Medical Spas succeed

They are a great source of experienced MedSpa owners, who have already gone through what you will. In addition, they often have members who have specialized in the MedSpa industry, including: business planning, marketing, design, dealing with regulatory issues, insurance and finance. The International Medical Spa Association even has a mentorship program that is available for new MedSpa owners. It is invaluable to chat with someone across the country who has had the same problems you may have, especially if you know they are not a local competitor!

4. Know your strengths and weaknesses

No one is strong in all areas, you may be an expert in age management medicine, but you may be weak on the business and marketing side. ThatÂs fine, but you are going to need to identify the areas where you are weak and compensate. Not all areas require a permanent, full-time employee, you may consider hiring a consultant who has the necessary experience.

5. Watch your expenses

Especially during the startup phase of a MedSpa, it can be easy to see the glamour of having marble flooring, but is it really necessary? You may be better off adding another hair removal treatment room, which will generate income. Remember the old adage: Âit will take twice as long and cost twice as much as you anticipated.Â

6. Determine what need your Medical Spa meets

As with any successful business, you need to meet a consumer demand. With 11,500 people joining the over 50 crowd every day, you have a great potential market. But you need to make sure you are where they can be found (i. e. medical centers, shopping centers, established communities).

7. Know your cash flow

You may think financial statements are only for accountants to understand, but you need to be able to read some key financial statements. Including the cash flow statement, this lets you know where the money is coming from and where it is going. You must always know your current cash flow situation, if you cannot pay your bills, you are effectively out of business.

8. Do it because you want to do it

Starting a MedSpa is going to consume two things: time and money. The profit potential of a MedSpa is huge, but if you are not doing what you really enjoy, it will show on your bottom-line! As you will probably be spending more time and money than you originally planned, you need to make sure operating a Medical Spa is what you really want to do.

9. DonÂt hire family and friends

They may be able to provide you with valuable assistance during the startup phase, but they most likely will not be able to get you to that next level. This is where having an experienced MedSpa director is very important. Not only are they going to hire and train your employees, but they also will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the MedSpa. Hiring a competent MedSpa Director can allow you to run your MedSpa as a stand alone profit center; one that makes money whether you are there or not.

10. DonÂt forget about regulatory and insurance issues

Since you will be incorporating medical procedures in your MedSpa you need to ensure you have the proper coverage for the procedures you will be performing. While you already have malpractice insurance, it may not cross-over to your MedSpa practice. Many insurers are now requiring offices adding or expanding cosmetic-aesthetic procedures to their practice to document clinical and/or accredited training on all non-ablative modalities before a policy of coverage will be extended. Please consult your insurance provider to ensure you are covered.

The underlying theme here is Â Be Prepared! The key to any business success, including opening a successful medical spa is being properly capitalized from the very beginning. To make things more complicated, you also need to take into account the evolving regulations surrounding the MedSpa industry. ÂI am now seeing successful Medical SpaÂs turning profits after 6 to 9 months, there are many very happy doctors out thereÂ says Russell.

About MedSpa Financing (Oakridge Healthcare)

MedSpaFinancing. com is a division of Oakridge Healthcare, which provides turn-key healthcare financing solutions to medical practices throughout North America (www. oakridgehealthcare. com). Through our network of financial partners, we have the capacity to finance everything from a single treatment machine to an entire $20 million Medical Spa facility. For additional information, visit our website: www. medspafinancing. com. MedSpa Financing is a member of the International Medical Spa Association, and proud member of our local Chamber of Commerce.

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Can't Get Health Insurance? Think Again

2012-01-31T03:28:00.000-08:00

Can't Get Health Insurance? Think Again

Being turned down or cannot afford health insurance is a heartbreaking national dilemma. Everyone talks about it but nothing inevitably gets done. Logic Systems Financial reports they have found an answer.

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA (PRWEB) December 2, 2008

Job lay off, the kids are sick, the horribly expensive Cobra insurance was dropped months ago, and now with her existing back problem, no insurance company will touch her. What can she do?

Being uninsurable has been a hard-hitting problem in America. Barack Obama recently stated, "It's shameful, and what's even more shameful is that nine million of the Americans who are forced to wait in Emergency Rooms when they get sick - who have no health insurance at all - are children."

Why are some folks labeled uninsurable? Well usually it is due to a pre-existing health issue. So what if the insurer would simply exclude that pre-existing condition? This way the insurer would have a new client, while being protected from unexpected loss should the pre-existing condition become worse. Sound like a winner?

Condition exclusion is not how they have traditionally thought. Instead they totally reject the customer. To make it worse, they then document that the customer applied, but was rejected. Now this new ominous insurance record makes it even more difficult to get health insurance.

Fortunately there are new thoughts in this area. A new guaranteed issue health plan has arrived on the scene. This plan is not Medicare but it pays basically what Medicare would pay for the same surgical procedures. The plan also covers many of the same things that a traditional and very expensive major medical health policy covers. But the cost is a fraction of what a high-risk consumer would usually pay. And, they will accept pre-existing conditions, with a waiting period.

The plan is called a fixed benefit plan. That is the way insurance used to be. Back when doctors did not have such a billing nightmare to deal with. The doctor new what the insurance would pay and that is what was billed. It was so simple back then. Did you know that billing companies charge doctors around 12%? Guess who pays that? This new plan can help eliminate this headache.

There are some copycat plans out there but they fall short in one or more areas. Many of them are not really insurance at all and are sold everywhere, even in magazines. This new plan is genuine insurance and regulated by your state, and requires a state insurance license to sell it.

The site with the details is www. GuaranteedHealthProtection. com. You can get a health insurance quote here. The sites parent company, Logic Systems Financial (LSF), has been around almost ten years. Their Better Business Bureau rating is AA. Customers are flocking their way for this new plan. It's an easy online enrollment as well.

When the management of LSF decided to make this new plan available to their customers, "The clients that had been previously turned down by the major medical companies suddenly became insurable again." Company management said, "It's a real good feeling going back to these good folks who were previously turned down by one or more of the health giants, with the excellent news that there is now credible insurance coverage for them."

Another quick detail; this new plan is HIPPA (http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Health_Insurance_Portability_and_Accountability_Act) compliant. The look-alike plans do not have this important compliance feature. What HIPPA compliance does for someone is that if this new plan is kept for one year, the customer can then go back to the same major medical company who previously denied them, with the same pre-existing condition, and apply for a plan. Because by having twelve months of what is called, continuous credible coverage, they then can qualify for the traditional plans. Pre-existing conditions no longer stop them.

The bottom line here is that this guaranteed issue plan was a long time coming. This company has sorted through all the junk and flack for us, to make this new plan health plan available nationally. Now the so-called uninsurable of this country can be easily protected.

Contact:

Logic Systems Financial
PO Box 80793
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
Www. GuaranteedHealthProtection. com
Www. InsuranceAnswerman. com
(877) 610-2787
(949) 457-9289

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Homeowners Rates Go Through The Roof

2012-01-29T15:38:00.000-08:00

Homeowners Rates Go Through The Roof

Michigan, Homeowners rates go through the roof.. Free brochure "12 ways to lower your homeowners Insurance"

(PRWEB) April 18, 2005

State of Michigan - With rising cost of homeowners insurance across the state, residents are up in arms over rising premiums.

Whether you are about switch insurance companies, or you are just reviewing your policy, it is critical that you inform yourself about the factors involved before you buy any policy.

Insurance regulations have changed significantly over the past few years, making your options wider than ever. Subtle changes in the way you approach homeowners insurance shopping, and even small differences in the way you structure your policy, can cost or save you thousands of dollars.

An industry report has just been released entitled Â12 Ways to Lower your Homeowners Insurance CostÂ. This limited report discusses the 12 most common and costly of these insurance traps and how to avoid them.

Having the right information before hand can undoubtedly make a major difference in the premium you pay. To hear a brief recorded message about how to order your free copy of this report, call 1-888-465-9174 and enter ID #1060. You can call anytime, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call and find out all you need to know about lowering you homeownerÂs insurance rates.

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Senn Dunn Insurance Inks Deal With The Castleton Group

2012-01-27T02:16:00.000-08:00

Senn Dunn Insurance Inks Deal With The Castleton Group

Raleigh, N. C. (PRWEB) October 22, 2006

T. Gray McCaskill, president of Senn Dunn Insurance, has announced the firm has been chosen to provide insurance services to The Castleton Group, a full service HR outsourcing company that is the largest Professional Employer Organization (PEO) in North Carolina. The plan covers all of The Castleton Group’s clients and employees in North Carolina. Senn Dunn will provide enhanced loss control, safety, and claims service for The Castleton Group’s risk management program. Overseeing the program will be Rivers Lee and Jennifer Taylor, account executives in Senn Dunn’s Raleigh office who both have over 20 years experience in the insurance industry.

“Senn Dunn is excited to be working with The Castleton Group,” said McCaskill. “The agency is one of the most respected in its field, and we are honored to help better manage their current workers compensation program.”

“I am proud that The Castleton Group will receive services from Senn Dunn,” said Jay McLamb, chief operating officer of The Castleton Group. “The company has been a leader in business insurance in North Carolina for years, as much as The Castleton Group has been in HR outsourcing, and we feel the partnership will be beneficial to both parties.”

About Senn Dunn Insurance:

Based in Greensboro, N. C., Senn Dunn provides personal and commercial insurance and employee-benefit services. In operation since 1927, the company is one of the largest privately owned insurance firms in North Carolina, with 100 employees and brokers insurance policies for more than 160 carriers. In August 2006 Senn Dunn opened offices in Raleigh. Policies sold to businesses represented 90 percent of the company's revenue of $14.6 million last year. For more information, visit http://www. senndunn. com/ (http://www. senndunn. com/).

About The Castleton Group:

The Castleton Group is a full service Professional Employer Organization specializing in human resources outsourcing. As the sister company of The Executive Staffing Group, The Castleton Group provides human resources administration, regulatory compliance management, human capital management, risk assessment, benefits administration, customized training and payroll outsourcing. The Castleton Group works with business owners to improve profitability by increasing employee productivity, leverage technology to reduce time spent on employee administration, reduce employment liability, and reduce labor costs. The firm, with offices in Raleigh and Cincinnati, Ohio, is committed to excellence in human resources management and is considered one of the top PEO's in the nation. In 2005, The Castleton Group was recognized among the 50 fastest growing private companies in the Triangle by the Triangle Business Journal. For more information please call 1-800-851-8158 or visit the Web site at http://www. castletongroup. com (http://www. castletongroup. com).

Patty Briguglio

MMI Associates, Inc.

7406-H Chapel Hill Road

Raleigh, NC 27607

(919) 233-6600 • (919) 233-0300 (fax)

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Webinar: Investing in Insurance Event Linked Securities -- Leading Practitioners and Investors at the Forefront of Investing

2012-01-25T06:57:00.000-08:00

Webinar: Investing in Insurance Event Linked Securities -- Leading Practitioners and Investors at the Forefront of Investing

Opalesque, the world's largest subscription-based publisher on alternative investments, hosts a webinar with leading practitioners on investing in insurance event linked securities on March 7, 2008 16.00 (CET) =10.00 am (EST).

Zurich, Switzerland (PRWEB) March 5, 2008

The convergence between the insurance industry and the capital markets has become a reality. Insurance-linked securities have changed the landscape of the global insurance and reinsurance market. This market offers the global, institutional investor base a promise of uncorrelated returns.

For example, the cat bond market has grown from $1.99bln in 2005 to a current estimated size of $14bln. According to Swiss Re, the insurance linked securities (ILS) market has has grown three-fold over the last five years and is expected to grow to $1trln over the next decade.

Opalesque, the publisher of A SQUARE, the world's first publication and research platform dedicated to "alternative alternatives", has gathered a panel of leading ILS experts for this interactive webinar:

Karsten Bromann, Managing Partner, Solidum Partners (Zurich, Switzerland)
Michael Stahel, Head Insurance-Linked Investments, Clariden Leu (Zurich, Switzerland)
Barney Schauble, Partner, Nephila Capital (Bermuda)
Sona Blessing, Director of Research, Opalesque Ltd

The panel will share insights and perspectives based on their “hands-on-experience” in this space and will address the following:

What circumstances and motives prompt insurers/reinsurers to consider transferring risk to financial markets?
Risk study: Total risk = parametric risk (hazard risk, transferred to capital markets) + vulnerability risk (kept by insurers& re-insurers through the underwriting process ):
Ceding hazard risk
Assessment
Evaluation: triggers, models and their constrains
New perils; the importance of investing in a diversified menu of perils
„Consistency + reliability of transactions are extremely important for investors to enter the sector"
Place in a portfolio - and optimization
Is transferring of catastrophe risk to capital markets, different from credit risk - in what ways and why?

A SQUARE subscribers can confirm their participation in this webinar here: http://www. opalesque. com/newsite/index. php? act=webinar (http://www. opalesque. com/newsite/index. php? act=webinar). In order to participate, you are formally required to register and reserve your seat.

Non-subscribers to A SQUARE can set up their subscription here: http://www. opalesque. com/main. php? act=registration (http://www. opalesque. com/main. php? act=registration) and participate for free in the webinar. See here for A SQUARE subscription rates: http://www. opalesque. com/main. php? act=A2Rates (http://www. opalesque. com/main. php? act=A2Rates).

Non-subscribers can also purchase an admission pass for this webinar here: http://www. opalesque. com/newsite/index. php? act=RegWebinar (http://www. opalesque. com/newsite/index. php? act=RegWebinar) ($80 admission).

More on our panel:
Karsten Bromann, Managing Partner, Solidum Partners (Zurich, Switzerland): Dr. Bromann is responsible for the investment portfolio and risk management of the accounts and funds managed by Solidum Partners. Prior to establishing Solidum Partners, he held various leading actuarial roles with the Zurich Insurance Company. Dr. Bromann is a qualified actuary of the German Actuarial Society and holds a Ph. D. in physics. Solidum Partners is an asset manager and fund advisor specialised and exclusively working in the area of insurance linked securities.

Michael Stahel, Head of Insurance-Linked Investment team within Clariden Leu Alternative Investments unit
Prior to joining Clariden Leu, Michael spent eight years with Swiss Re in various positions; the last four years as a Vice President in the Retro and Syndication unit structuring Cat Bonds and trading Risk Derivatives. Michael holds a BA in Economics from the Zurich University of Applied Science and an MBA in Corporate Finance from Rochester University. Clariden Leu is a large Swiss private bank with around USD 110bln assets under management. Within the alternative investments unit; the company offers funds and mandates in the field of insurance-linked investments with total fund NAV in excess of USD 850m.

Barney Schauble, Partner at Nephila Capital, Bermuda: Barney Schauble is a Principal of Nephila. He joined the company in 2004 to focus on business development, including both risk sourcing and investor relations as well as portfolio management. Prior to joining Nephila Capital he was head of Weather Marketing at XL Capital; and Vice President at Goldman Sachs. Barney attended Harvard College and received his B. A. in Economics; he wrote his senior thesis to explore the concept of investing in bonds linked to property catastrophe reinsurance risk. Nephila is the first asset manager to apply its expertise in the natural catastrophe sector using CDO technology on an actively managed basis.

About A SQUARE:
Opalesque A SQUARE = Alternative Alternatives is the first web publication, globally, that is dedicated exclusively to alternative investments. A SQUARE's weekly selection feature unique investment opportunities that bear virtually no correlation to the main stream hedge fund strategies and/or distinguish themselves by virtue of their "alternative" motive - social, behavioural, natural resources, sustainable /environment related investing.

With its "research that reveals" approach, fast facts and investment oriented analysis, A SQUARE offers diversification and complementary ideas for: private, high net-worth and institutional investors, pension funds and endowments, portfolio and hedge funds managers. For more information please go here: http://www. opalesque. com/index9.html (http://www. opalesque. com/index9.html).

About Opalesque:
Since February 2003, Opalesque is publishing Alternative Market Briefing, the premium news service on hedge funds and alternatives. The launch of these Briefing was a revolution in the hedge fund media space ("Opalesque changed the world by bringing transparency where there was opacity and by delivering an accurate professional reporting service." - Nigel Blanchard, Culross) combining proprietary news with the “clipping service” approach of integrating third party news. Each week, Opalesque publications are read by more than 360,000 industry professionals from all over the globe.

Opalesque is the only daily hedge fund publisher which is actually read by the elite managers themselves (http://www. opalesque. com/op_testimonials. html (http://www. opalesque. com/op_testimonials. html)). For more information, please go to http://www. opalesque. com (http://www. opalesque. com).

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New Medicare Advantage Marketing Rules Help People Make Informed Choices, Allsup Says

2012-01-23T10:59:00.000-08:00

New Medicare Advantage Marketing Rules Help People Make Informed Choices, Allsup Says

Regulation highlights need for complete, unbiased information on Medicare choices.

Belleville, Ill. (Vocus) November 19, 2008 -

Medicare beneficiaries trying to sort through their healthcare options for 2009 should welcome new rules designed to protect them against overly aggressive marketing tactics by some insurance companies and their agents, according to Allsup, a leading provider of Social Security disability, financial and healthcare-related services to people with disabilities.

"People need information to make an informed choice, but they need that information to be unbiased, complete and straightforward," said Paul Gada, personal financial planning director and product manager for Allsup Medicare Advisor(SM) service, which helps people with disabilities choose the best, most affordable Medicare plan to meet their specific needs.

The new regulations, issued by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), became effective Oct. 1. They prohibit telemarketing and other unsolicited sales contacts by Medicare Advantage insurance companies or their agents to Medicare beneficiaries. The rules also ban financial incentives that could encourage agents to move beneficiaries from one plan to another in order to make bigger commissions.

Additionally, last week, the CMS issued revised compensation guidelines for agents and brokers selling Medicare Advantage options, further safeguarding plan participants from potentially overaggressive sales tactics.

Overall, CMS reports that the vast majority of Medicare beneficiaries are pleased with their Medicare Advantage plans. These regulations are designed to ensure that all beneficiaries have the same experience, and the CMS is beefing up enforcement through surveillance. During last year's open enrollment, the CMS required three organizations to take corrective steps and suspended another organization's marketing activities.

Having the option to use a Medicare Advantage program vs. traditional Medicare has been a great benefit to a number of people, with about 10.1 million individuals now enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans compared to just 5.3 million five years ago, according to the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation. These plans, at a minimum, cover everything offered by traditional Medicare Parts A and B (hospital and outpatient services). They also may offer additional benefits not covered by traditional Medicare such as dental care or prescription drug programs. Out-of-pocket costs also are likely to be less with a Medicare Advantage plan than if using traditional Medicare and a Medigap policy. Additionally, Medicare Advantage plans generally must cover pre-existing conditions, something Medigap is not required to do.

"People need to be cautious in distinguishing between the poor behavior of some of the insurance agents and the potential benefit Medicare Advantage plans could have in improving their healthcare and making it more affordable," said Gada. "These new regulations help address poor behavior. But despite the new protections, the best defense against predatory practices still is making certain you are relying on information from an unbiased and trusted source."

About Allsup

Allsup, Belleville, Ill., is a leading nationwide provider of financial and healthcare related services to people with disabilities. Founded in 1984, Allsup has helped more than 100,000 people receive their entitled Social Security Disability Insurance and Medicare benefits. Allsup employs more than 500 professionals who deliver services directly to consumers and their families, or through their employers and long-term disability insurance carriers.

The Allsup Medicare Advisor service provides customized, objective support to help individuals with disabilities navigate the complexities of Medicare and Medicare Advantage programs, analyze the best plan coverage and provider options based on individual preferences, better understand healthcare cost information, and simplify the confusing process of enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan.

For more information, visit Allsup. com.

The information provided is not intended as a substitute for legal or other professional services. Legal or other expert assistance should be sought before making any decision that may affect your situation.

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Count Rossi’s Porsche 917: The Coolest Car Ever?

2012-01-11T04:28:00.000-08:00

Count Rossi’s Porsche 917: The Coolest Car Ever?

Influx’s definitive list of the 10 best German cars of all time

(PRWeb UK) December 18, 2009

The latest edition of the online, interactive version of the turbo-charged motor and biking magazine influx, from Adrian Flux Insurance Services, features all things German.

The article ‘Influx Top Ten German Cars of All Time’, lists the definitive top ten cars to come out of Germany according to the petrol-heads at influx, ranging from the first patented automobile to super-powerful F1 racing cars. Disagree? Then log on to influx and have your say.

Germany has produced some of the most significant cars in history. They’re not just reliable, but fast, stylish and innovative to boot. Though it may pain us to say it, Germany gave birth to probably the best Formula One driver of all time and with their reputation for brilliant motor engineering, Germany and all things automotive go hand-in-hand.

Influx’s top ten includes the Benz Patent Motorwagen, the first ever patented automobile, two BMWs, two VWs and two Porsches, the 911 and the 917. The 917 is one of the most iconic sports racing cars of all time, largely for its high speeds and high power outputs. The editorial awards Count Rossi’s road-registered version as probably the coolest thing to ever don number plates.

Unsurprisingly, the Volkswagen Beetle features in the top ten, originally called Volkswagen Type 1, then Käfer (German for ‘Beetle’), it was one of the most influential cars of the 20th Century, paving the way for other compact cars to follow.

Influx online is more than just an online magazine, it's fast becoming a web-based motoring community where users can exchange information about the featured stories. If they think Audi, Opel, Trabant or even the Smart car deserved to make the top spots, influx users can log on and have their say.

As well as the ten of the best, the latest edition of influx features an article on Bavarian Motor Works, German bike technology and influx meets four German car nuts. Plus, influx examines German motorsport heritage with reports on the Nurburgring and Audi Quattro.

Influx is published by Adrian Flux Insurance Services, the specialist motoring insurance broker. For details contact the Adrian Flux quote line on 0800 081 8989, email the company at quotes@adrianflux. co. uk or see the Flux homepage on http://www. adrianflux. co. uk
Copy ends

Notes for Editors

The definitive top 10 German cars according to influx

Ruf CTR Yellowbird
Mercedes-Benz 560SEL 6.9
Auto Union V16
BMW 507
Volkswagen Golf GTi
BMW E39 530d
Volkswagen Beetle
Benz Patent Motorwagen
Porsche 911
Porsche 917

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Sherilyn Pastor of McCarter & English Named One of NJBIZ's 2010 Best 50 Women In Business

2012-01-10T01:56:00.000-08:00

Sherilyn Pastor of McCarter & English Named One of NJBIZ's 2010 Best 50 Women In Business

McCarter & English, LLP is pleased to announce that Sherilyn Pastor, a partner and practice leader of the firm's Insurance Coverage Group, has been named one of New Jersey's "2010 Best 50 Women in Business" by NJBIZ.

Newark, NJ (PRWEB) February 22, 2010

McCarter & English, LLP (http://www. mccarter. com/) is pleased to announce that Sherilyn Pastor (http://www. mccarter. com/new/homenew. aspx? searchlink=showbionew&show=942), a partner and practice leader of the firm's Insurance Coverage Group, has been named one of New Jersey's "2010 Best 50 Women in Business (http://www. njbiz. com/events. asp? nID=91&show=details)" by NJBIZ, a weekly business journal owned by Journal Publications. The annual list recognizes 50 of the best women in business for their outstanding contributions to the state of New Jersey, both in their industry and community. The awards ceremony will be held on April 7th at The Palace at Somerset Park in Somerset, NJ.

"We congratulate Sheri for this great honor," said Michael Guariglia (http://www. mccarter. com/new/homenew. aspx? searchlink=showbionew&Show=895), managing partner of McCarter's Newark office. "Sheri has been an invaluable member of our law firm for over 20 years through her service in key leadership roles, development of our insurance coverage law practice, and her community work outside of the office. I've seen the results of her efforts first-hand and firmly believe that her record of commitment and excellence is highly representative of this award."

Pastor is a member of the firm's Executive Committee - one of three women to serve in this
Leadership position. She also leads one of the firm's most profitable practice groups and serves on the firm's Strategic Planning Committee. Pastor has secured hundreds of millions of dollars in insurance assets for a broad range of policyholder clients. She litigates throughout the country and provides insurance coverage advice to clients assessing their potential risks, analyzing new insurance products and considering the adequacy of their programs.

In addition to building a successful legal practice in an area that has historically been dominated by male attorneys and clients, Pastor has consistently helped other women in the legal community. As the Vice-Chair of the ABA Litigation Section's Insurance Coverage Litigation Committee (ICLC), Pastor requested that McCarter sponsor the March 2010 Women's Reception at the ICLC's Annual Meeting in Tucson. This event is intended to introduce additional network building and development opportunities for women. Pastor is also overseeing inclusion of a charitable event at this year's meeting, providing attendees an opportunity to give back to local children in need.

Beyond serving generally as a role model to other women practitioners at the firm, Pastor mentors the many women associates in the Insurance Coverage group. She also is an active member in the firm's Women's Initiative Committee, a group of women attorneys at the firm whose goal it is build positive relationships with colleagues and clients as well as the communities in which they live and work. A mother of two young children, she is also involved in several local school and church activities.

Prior to joining McCarter, Pastor was a law clerk in the New Jersey Superior Court's Appellate Division for the Hon. David Landau, J. A.D. (retired). She earned her B. A., cum laude, from Seton Hall University and her J. D., magna cum laude, from Seton Hall Law School.

About McCarter & English

McCarter & English, LLP, established more than 160 years ago, represents Fortune 500 and middle-market companies in their national, regional and local litigation and on important transactions. Its 400 attorneys are based in offices in Boston, Hartford, New York, Newark, Philadelphia, Stamford and Wilmington. www. mccarter. com (http://www. mccarter. com/)

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Mother Earth News Goes On Tour with Sustainable-Living Fairs

2012-01-08T14:58:00.000-08:00

Mother Earth News Goes On Tour with Sustainable-Living Fairs

The largest and longest-running publication about green lifestyles, celebrates sustainable and rural living with hands-on events. The first Mother Earth News Fair will be Sept. 25-26 at Seven Springs Mountain Resort, near Pittsburgh.

Topeka, KS (Vocus) April 20, 2010

To celebrate her 40th birthday, Mother’s coming to visit. Mother Earth News (http://www. MotherEarthNews. com), the largest and longest-running publication about green lifestyles, will host the first Mother Earth News Fair Sept. 25-26 at Seven Springs Mountain Resort (http://www.7springs. com/), near Pittsburgh. The magazine plans to roll out additional fairs across the country in 2011.

The Mother Earth News Fair will cover organic gardening, renewable energy, small-scale livestock, green building and remodeling, do-it-yourself projects, real food, natural health, green transportation and related topics (http://www. motherearthnews. com/fair/schedule-categories. aspx). Dozens of experts, including Mother Earth News staff and editors from sister publications Grit, Natural Home, The Herb Companion and Utne Reader, will lead the sessions.

“These fairs, like the Mother Earth News Eco-Village (http://www. motherearthnews. com/Nature-Community/1982-09-01/Take-an-Eco-Village-Vacation. aspx) that preceded them, are designed to help people live more self-sufficient, conscientious lives by bringing them real projects that they can implement at home — and have fun doing it,” says Bryan Welch, publisher and editorial director of Mother Earth News.

Between the mid-1970s and mid-1980s, Mother Earth News hosted thousands of visitors each summer at its 600-acre Eco-Village in Hendersonville, N. C. The Eco-Village served as a hands-on research center, with attendees learning about everything from beekeeping to cordwood construction through experimental gardens, houses and energy projects.

In addition to workshops, the Fair will host family-friendly activities, musical entertainment, vendor demonstrations, a green shopping pavilion, and local and organic food. Attendees also can purchase discounted lodging and activity packages through Seven Springs Mountain Resort.

Seven Springs Mountain Resort, an Ogden Publications sister company, was selected as the inaugural host of the Mother Earth News Fair based on its environmental stewardship (http://www.7springs. com/page/category. detail/nav/5358.html), resource management and environmental protection practices.

Seven-Star Inc. will provide event production services, including on-site recycling and waste-reduction services.

To stay up to date on Mother Earth News Fair information, sign up for the event’s e-newsletter at http://www. motherearthnews. com/fairupdates (http://www. motherearthnews. com/fairupdates).

About Mother Earth News
Mother Earth News is the Original Guide to Living Wisely. Topics include organic gardening, do-it-yourself projects, cutting energy costs, using renewable energy, green home building and rural living.

About Ogden Publications Inc.
Ogden Publications Inc. is the leading information resource serving the sustainable living, rural lifestyle, farm memorabilia and classic motorcycle communities. Key brands include Mother Earth News, Natural Home, Utne Reader, Capper’s and Grit. Ogden Publications also provides insurance and financial services through its Capper’s Insurance Service division.

About Seven-Star Inc.
Seven-Star Inc. is the nation’s largest full-service event company focusing exclusively on green events. Since 1999, Seven-Star has provided turnkey green event services for environmentally Responsible and socially Respectful (eR/sR) festivals, trade and consumer expositions, conferences, concerts, and mobile tours. From the greening of the 2008 Democratic National Convention and Live Earth events to producing the nation’s largest consumer Green Festivals, Seven-Star has defined itself as the company for eR/sR event production. Seven-Star is the first event company to win the EPA’s Gold WasteWise Award for Excellence, in recognition of the company’s proprietary system of event waste diversion. The system has consistently achieved greater than 85 percent waste diversion.

About Seven Springs Mountain Resort
Seven Springs Mountain Resort, located in Seven Springs, Pa., is the perfect place for family vacations that create lifelong memories. Each year the family-friendly resort hosts more than 1 million overnight and day guests, who enjoy a vacation that includes the finest skiing, snowboarding and golf that Pennsylvania has to offer, the exhilaration of sporting clays, and the luxurious Trillium Spa.

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AP9 Privacy Matters 123 Offers Advice on Protecting Yourself Against Identity Theft in the Workplace

2012-01-01T17:36:00.000-08:00

AP9 Privacy Matters 123 Offers Advice on Protecting Yourself Against Identity Theft in the Workplace

AP9 PrivacyMatters123 Provides Members with a Variety of Credit Monitoring Tools That Can Help Uncover Identity Theft Events

Norwalk, Conn. (PRWEB) May 8, 2007

Identity theft is complicated enough, notes AP9 Privacy Matters 123 (http://www. privacymatters123-program. com/), a leading security and privacy membership program offered by Adaptive Marketing LLC, but when the theft occurs in the workplace, it can have even wider implications, raising questions about employer screening methods and security practices, not to mention the issues it can raise regarding the victim's future career path.

Identity theft can be a rewarding crime, unfortunately, offering perpetrators access to potentially unlimited assets through illegal actions that, when performed by a skilled criminal, are designed to be as difficult to trace as possible. The "money for nothing" allure of identity theft tends to appeal to a broad swath of people, regardless of their race, gender, education level, employment level or other demographic category. Simply put, an identity thief can lurk anywhere -- even in your office, cautions AP9 Privacy Matters 123 (http://www. privacymatters123-program. com/PrivacyMatters123_ResourceCenter. html).

While there's no way to "profile" or otherwise identify someone who may be an identity thief, AP9 Privacy Matters 123 does have a few suggestions for protecting your identifying information as much as possible in a work environment:

-- Guard your Social Security number religiously. Some company documents, including job applications, W-9 forms, health insurance policies and more, need a Social Security number for processing purposes, so be sure to store copies of those documents securely. Other corporate documents -- sick day logs, vacation requests, expense reports and others -- shouldn't require a Social Security number. Don't be afraid to question a request for a Social Security number on such materials. Work with Human Resources and other departments to find ways to replace Social Security number requests with less vital identifying information.

-- Practice safe computer skills. Your computer probably stores a lot of personally identifying information about you, from your name and address to your credit card and even Social Security numbers. Don't leave your computer on and unguarded for any significant period of time; a computer-savvy ID thief can swipe information from your hard drive in less time than it takes to sit through a staff meeting. Also, if you're receiving a new computer, make sure the information on your old hard drive will be permanently erased once your new computer has been installed.

-- Keep your password(s) to yourself. An effective corporate security policy should never require you to share passwords with co-workers, even if they're working on projects with you. A password in the wrong hands can potentially cost you every piece of data on your computer, including information that's unique to you. Memorize your passwords, and, if others need access to information on your computer, key your password in yourself rather than sharing it, even with your boss.

-- Protect your personal materials. Storing your purse or wallet in your office desk is fine -- as long as you're sitting in your office. If you're in and out of your office all day, you're at risk for theft unless you can lock your office drawers with a key that no one else has. If security in your office is poor, consider bringing in only those items you need to get through the day (i. e., driver's license, lunch money, personal grooming items, medications) and leaving everything else (credit cards, Social Security cards, other personally identifying materials) stored securely at home.

Restoring your identity after it's been stolen can require a lot of your time and resources. Your best course of action is to take pre-emptive steps to protect your identity, even in your workplace, reports AP9 PrivacyMatters123.

About AP9 PrivacyMatters123
AP9 Privacy Matters 123 (http://www. privacymatters123-program. com/) is a leading membership program offered by Adaptive Marketing LLC that offers consumers instant, online access to 3 in 1 credit reports and scores, daily Triple Bureau credit monitoring and more. Headquartered in Norwalk, Conn., Adaptive Marketing is a category leader in membership programs, bringing value direct to consumers through an array of benefits in healthcare, discounts, security, personal property and personals. Members may access their benefits at PrivacyMatters. com (http://www. privacymatters. com/). With broad online and offline distribution capabilities, Adaptive Marketing (http://www. adaptivemarketing. com/) offers its corporate client partners effective tools to enhance market presence, strengthen customer affinity and generate additional value through programs such as AP9 Privacy Matters 123.

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NRMA Insurance Urges Queensland Drivers to Keep Eyes on Road

2012-01-01T07:01:00.000-08:00

NRMA Insurance Urges Queensland Drivers to Keep Eyes on Road

NRMA Insurance is urging Queensland drivers to reposition their portable GPS units and keep their eyes on the road, after running road tests to investigate their impact on driver attention and safety.

(PRWEB) July 31, 2010

Queensland Car Insurance (http://www. nrmaqld. com. au/car-insurance/index. shtml) provider NRMA Insurance is urging Queensland drivers to reposition their portable GPS units and keep their eyes on the road, after running road tests to investigate their impact on driver attention and safety.

The road test revealed that when drivers were challenged to use the portable GPS unit over a 35km route, they glanced at it around 90 times for an average of 1.2 seconds. This means, when travelling at
60 km/h, they were looking away from the road for up to 19 metres at a time – or more than four car lengths*.

The research also suggested that the safest position for a portable GPS unit is the right front lower corner of the windscreen. Of the positions tested, this location created the smallest blind spot for the driver**.

NRMA Car Insurance QLD (http://www. nrmaqld. com. au/car-insurance/index. shtml) spokesperson Robert McDonald said the research exposed the true dangers of looking at a GPS continually while driving.

“We want to make drivers aware of the risks of combining another task with driving. In-car distractions like eating, drinking or using a GPS encourage the driver to take their eyes off the road. Losing focus for one second while at the wheel puts you at higher risk of having a collision.

“Drivers should learn to rely on the voice directions rather than looking at the map, it’s too distracting to be repeatedly looking at the screen while staying aware of the road and the other cars around you,” Mr
McDonald said.

NRMA Car Insurance (http://www. nrmaqld. com. au/car-insurance/index. shtml) research also found the least safe positions for a portable GPS unit is in the centre of the windscreen under the rear-vision mirror or directly in front of the driver, these locations block the field of view, creating large areas invisible for the driver.

“The position of your GPS is critical to being safe on Queensland roads, we regularly see drivers with a GPS blocking their view and creating an invisible area in front of the vehicle on the road.

“If drivers need to enter a location, look at the map extensively or consider the directions of the GPS, they should pull over and adjust it in a safe place,” Mr McDonald said.

NRMA Insurance offers some simple tips to drivers who use a GPS:
choose the automatic lighting option – it will select the most suitable setting for the conditions and prevent it being too bright at night; enable a warning if you try to access the screen while driving; ensure it is positioned in your line of sight but not blocking your field of view.

Six drivers (aged 27 to 59) drove an unfamiliar urban route of 35km on public roads, using the same GPS unit while driving at speeds under the posted speed limit. The drivers faces were filmed with eye movements recorded – a single eye movement is referred to as a ‘glance’.

** Four GPS unit positions were tested. Laser angles were recorded at each corner of the GPS unit to calculate the invisible area the GPS unit projected onto the road in front of the vehicle.

About the Author

NRMA Insurance is a leading insurance provider, offering Car Insurance quotes (http://www. nrmaqld. com. au/car-insurance/index. shtml), Home Insurance, Motorcycle Insurance, Travel Insurance, Business Insurance, Boat Insurance, Health Insurance and Caravan Insurance in QLD

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Appligent Document Solutions Releases AppendPDF and AppendPDF Pro 4.3; New Output Options Improve End User Experience

2011-12-31T02:58:00.000-08:00

Appligent Document Solutions Releases AppendPDF and AppendPDF Pro 4.3; New Output Options Improve End User Experience

Appligent Document Solutions today announced the immediate availability of version 4.3 of its AppendPDF and AppendPDF Pro server software for Windows, Mac OS X, 32, Linux 32bit & 64bit, Solaris, AIX, AS/400 and HP-UX servers. Already delivering enterprise-class PDF merging, stamping and automated Tables of Contents functionality, the new version 4.3 includes support for the full range of user experience options at the document's opening afforded by the free Adobe Reader.

Lansdowne, PA (PRWEB) April 15, 2009

Appligent Document Solutions (http://www. appligent. com (http://www. appligent. com)) today announced the immediate availability of version 4.3 of its AppendPDF and AppendPDF Pro server software for Windows, Mac OS X, 32bit and 64bit Linux, Solaris, AIX and HP-UX servers.

"Rapidly and reliably assembling finished documents is a mission-critical task for our AppendPDF customers," said Appligent Document Solutions CEO Duff Johnson. "AppendPDF and AppendPDF Pro assemble standards-based manufacturing documentation, reports, invoices and other key line-of-business functions everyday, all over the world. This version optimizes the end-user experience by taking full advantage of the display options in Adobe Reader," he said.

AppendPDF and AppendPDF Pro are used to streamline document flows and reduce costs in a diverse range of implementations worldwide. In the pharmaceutical industry the software assembles reports, adding control statements and date/time stamps to the finished document. In higher education, AppendPDF Pro assembles customized collections of course documents on request. In the insurance industry, AppendPDF builds individualized documents for distribution to policy-holders.

Version 4.3 extends the existing product by leveraging Adobe Reader's presentational capabilities with the power of server-based content management. With AppendPDF and AppendPDF Pro 4.3, organizations can develop highly scalable document production systems using a fraction of the development resources consumed by other solutions.

Version 4.3 adds new options to the XML parameter file that controls the application's operation. Users may now set the following options in the output PDF file.
Set the page to which the document initially opens Set opening options, including bookmarks and thumbnails views Set the zoom level to Fit Height, Fit Width, etc Set the layout mode to single page, 2-up, etc Set the document into Full Screen viewing mode Hide toolbar, menu and window controls

AppendPDF and AppendPDF Pro 4.3 are available immediately and without charge to existing Appligent Document Solutions customers with current Support & Maintenance agreements. Licenses for AppendPDF start at $995 for up to 4 cores on Windows, Mac OS X, Linux 32bit & 64bit, Solaris, AIX and HP-UX servers, and $2,995 for AppendPDF Pro. Developer licenses are available at a 50% discount.

About Appligent Document Solutions
Appligent Document Solutions is the oldest and most innovative independent PDF technology company in the world. Beginning in 1993 with the first 3rd party PDF parser, in 1998, the company was first to market with server software for PDF forms. Appligent Document Solutions invented PDF redaction and form-flattening, and created the first service bureau for PDF files in 1996. The company's services unit offers PDF forms development, Section 508 compliance, PDF document collections services and publication imaging.

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HSA Clearing Corp to Offer INSNET, LLC to Help Consumers Save on Medical Bills

2011-12-30T23:19:00.000-08:00

HSA Clearing Corp to Offer INSNET, LLC to Help Consumers Save on Medical Bills

HSA Clearing Corp announces it is adding INSNET, LLC to its list of providers as an advocate to help consumers save money on their medical bills. "The key to offering a successful HSA program is providing the educational tools and money - saving products for the consumer, now that they are spending their own money on their healthcare," said Tim Morales of HSA Clearing Corp.

Lake Geneva, WI (PRWEB) May 5, 2008

HSA Clearing Corp, the nation's leading provider of turn-key Health Savings Account solutions for banks and credit unions, announces it is adding INSNET, LLC to its list of providers as an advocate to help consumers save money on their medical bills.

"The key to offering a successful HSA program is providing the educational tools and money - saving products for the consumer, now that they are spending their own money on their healthcare", said Tim Morales of HSA Clearing Corp. "HSA Clearing Corp has always been on the forefront of this model, and INSNET offers a product we think people need. INSNET will review a person's medical bill as low as $200. Any amount they can save the customer means that customer will keep more of their hard - earned money in their HSA. We have negotiated a special discounted price for our clients, and will also offer this service through HSA Trustee Services (www. hsatrusteeservices. com). We know that our financial institutions will want to offer this service to their customers or members. Not only does it save the consumer money, but it helps keep the HSA deposit balance higher."

Since 1985, Insurance Negotiating Service (INS) has saved insurance companies and self funded employers millions of dollars by negotiating medical claims. Now the same service insurance companies have used for decades is available to individuals. INSNET was created to help empower individuals by helping control their out - of - pocket medical expenses. INSNET is the consumer's safety NET.

With today's shift toward more Consumer Driven Health Plans, INSNET is a much - needed patient advocate. For decades health insurance companies have attempted to lower costs. More recently, medical providers are becoming more aggressive with patient balances by eliminating payment plans and partnering with large financial institutions. Both the insurance and healthcare industries are taking steps to remain profitable, often at the expense of the individual patient.

Avoid paying 'sticker price' on medical bills. Thanks to numerous resources, individuals know the difference between MSRP, invoice and dealer cost before they shop for a new car. These resources are rarely available for consumers when it comes to their medical bills. To maintain Medicare accreditation, a medical provider must agree to bill each patient the same amount for the same procedure. Most times the provider does not collect what they bill. There are over 6,000 health plans in the United States. Each may have contracts in place with some of the 850,000 US medical providers. Therefore, each doctor or hospital may have between 5 and 100 reimbursement rates for the same procedure!

Claims can easily be input on their secure website www. myinsnet. com. Once a User Profile has been created, an individual can access their account and input additional claims. The individual can also check the status of the claim at any time. Claims can also be mailed, faxed or emailed to INSNET. Customers may also call 877-MYINSNET (694-6763) to speak with a patient advocate.

INSNET provides its review and negotiation services RISK FREE to the individual. If a savings is realized on a medical bill, INSNET charges a nominal fee from the amount saved. There is no fee if there is no savings! Any claim with a patient balance exceeding $200 is eligible to be sent for review and negotiation.

Once a new claim is input into the INSNET database, the charges are compared to other claims in the geographic area the services were provided. Once the new claim has been analyzed in the database, a trained negotiator reviews it as well. If the charges are excessive, the negotiator will contact the medical provider and attempt to settle the patient balance for a more reasonable amount.

HSA Clearing Corp is the nationwide leader in setting up banks and credit unions to offer Health Savings Accounts/HSA with their turnkey HSA setup program, allowing the HSA monies to be deposited locally to better benefit the community. HSA Clearing Corp offers a full line of investment options for financial institutions using brokersXpress and HSA Financial. For more on this or any of their money - saving programs contact HSA Clearing Corp at 262-348-1300, or visit www. HSAClearing. com.

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Gastric Bypass Pill for Weight Loss Without Bariatric Surgery

2011-12-25T09:40:00.000-08:00

Gastric Bypass Pill for Weight Loss Without Bariatric Surgery

Gastric bypass surgery or the stomach blocking bariatic surgery is increasingly being considered as the only effective means of reducing weight but it is fraught with serious side effects and is expensive. An Atlanta, GA based company claims to have developed worldÂs first Gastric bypass pill that fills the stomach with a natural balloon which makes it virtually impossible to eat. More information at http://www. abmax. org

(PRWEB) January 28, 2005

Obesity and overweight has reached levels of epidemic proportion in America. According to latest estimates as high as 70% of Americans may be overweight, obese or morbidly obese. Excess consumption of high calorie foods and sedentary life style has brought this malady. Ideal amount of calories consumed per day is around 1800 calories for a reasonably active male. But an average American may go to bed after consuming more than double that amount of calories. Every 4000 calorie excess consumption raises the body weight by 1 Pound. Being overweight significantly reduces the quality of life causing myriad health complications ranging from Diabetes to Heart diseases to sexual debility. It is important to be of normal weight to have a good Standard of living. Diet control and Physical activity should always be opted as the first choice for weight reduction.

There are numerous Diet plants for weight loss like Atkins Diet, South Beach Diet, Diabetic Diet, Zone, Vegan, Protein Power etc. These diet plans call for certain level of rigor, sacrifice and will power on the part of the followers. Excellent results can be expected if they are followed diligently. But it is never easy to follow such a Diet plans on a permanent basis.

Gastric bypass surgery or the stomach blocking bariatic surgery is increasingly being considered as the only effective means of reducing weight. In this weight loss surgery a portion of the stomach is blocked by means of surgical stapling. Food then bypasses most of the stomach. This reduces hunger pangs and instills a feeling of fullness in the stomach. One can eat much less and still not feel hungry. In fact he would not be able to eat even if he did want to. Eating less is the only means of controlling weight. Physical activity can help only with certain limit. An hour of intense workout on treadmill can burn off around 500 calories, compare this with around 900 calories in one large sized pizza alone.

But there are serious risks and complications associated with Gastric bypass surgery. Doctors estimate the fatality rate to be as high as 1 in 100. Most who have undergone Bariatric surgery may develop stomach leaks, kidney and other organ related problems making the whole process very painful. Apart from causing physical pain Gastric weight loss surgery can cause significant financial strain. A single surgery can cost around 40,000$ easily. Most insurance companies will not pay for it or pay only for a part of it.

A Healthcare Company based in Atlanta, Georgia claims to have developed the world's first Gastric bypass pill which effects similar staggering weight loss without any of the risks associated with it and at a fraction of the cost. It has developed a Herbal formulation in the form of a capsule. Taken 5 minutes before meals with water, it will absorb the water and form a digestible herbal gel in the stomach. It will immediately effect a feeling of fullness in the stomach and it would make it impossible to eat beyond a small quantity. One can reduce the overall food intake by as much as 70% without feeling hunger pangs and anxiety. This healthcare company has claimed that within one month a staggering 10 pounds of weight can be reduced and over a period of few months as much as 60 Pounds of body weight can be reduced. This company states that since this Herbal Gel capsule was introduced in the market over 200,000 have used and benefited from it immensely. More information about this Product and the company can be had at http://www. abmax. org (http://www. abmax. org)

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Life Insure. com, a Leading Life Insurance Agency, Wins the Insurance Standard of Excellence Award During the 13th-Annual International WebAwards Competition

2011-12-16T17:58:00.000-08:00

Life Insure. com, a Leading Life Insurance Agency, Wins the Insurance Standard of Excellence Award During the 13th-Annual International WebAwards Competition

LifeInsure. com (www. lifeinsure. com), a leading online life insurance agency and a sister agency to ProtectYourIncome. com (www. protectyourincome. com), was recently honored with the Insurance Standard of Excellence award during the 13th-annual, international WebAwards competition sponsored by the Web Marketing Association. The Web Marketing Association recognizes organizations that create some of the most effective sites on the Internet. This year, more than 2,000 entrants from 45 countries competed in various award categories.

Los Angeles (PRWEB) September 18, 2009

The Web Marketing Association recognizes organizations that create some of the most effective sites on the Internet. This year, more than 2,000 entrants from 45 countries competed in various award categories.

Their annual competition creates industry standards of excellence for websites by evaluating sites based on seven key criteria: Design, innovation, content, technology, interactivity, copywriting and ease of use.

"We are excited to be recognized by the Web Marketing Association," said Richard Reich, president of Intramark Insurance Services in Los Angeles, California. "We strive to make our site informative and easy to use for our visitors."

The judges in the competition sited LifeInsure. com as a very good industrial website that is easy to navigate as well as its strong code and attractive design.

Previous winners in the insurance category include Progressive Insurance, Blue Shield of California and Empire BlueCross Blue Shield.

Each month, tens of thousands of people visit LifeInsure. com and its sister site ProtectYourIncome. com. In creating their online life insurance quote engine, Reich and CEO Neil Willner departed from the traditional online insurance agency mold that requires consumers to divulge their personal information in order to receive quotes.

Instead, they recognized a need for a better, easy-to-navigate model that allowed consumers to take control and receive instant quotes from hundreds of top-rated life insurance companies while remaining anonymous.

The model proved to be highly successful. Today, LifeInsure. com and ProtectYourIncome. com are two of the leading online insurance agencies for life insurance and disability insurance.

For more information, visit www. lifeinsure. com and www. protectyourincome. com.

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ValueFirst Becomes the Largest MVNO for Data Services in 3 Years

2011-12-16T15:04:00.000-08:00

ValueFirst Becomes the Largest MVNO for Data Services in 3 Years

ValueFirst becomes the largest MVNO for data services in 3 years.

(PRWEB) October 20, 2006

ValueFirst Messaging (www. vfirst. com) became the largest MVNO (Mobile virtual network operator) for data services, to serve enterprises within 3 years of operations.

ValueFirst celebrates its third anniversary on 17th October 2006 and services over 600 large and small enterprises. ValueFirst started its operations in October 2003 with focus on critical mobile messaging and now services leading companies in Stock Broking, Insurance, Manufacturing, IT Services, IT-enabled Services, Banking, IT Infrastructure Management, Healthcare, Airlines and Education verticals.

ValueFirst pioneered enterprise mobile data services, by providing quick time-to-market and low TCO (total cost of ownership) mobility solutions which mobile enables enterprise CRMs and ERPs by integrating them with the two-way SMS gateway. It is due to this novel approach to technology that ValueFirst was able to create a new market for its kind of services.

ValueFirst currently services 6 of the top 10 stock-broking companies in India and almost all the leading private insurance companies. BPOs and Manufacturing companies are the latest verticals to find potential in ValueFirst’s services. Manufacturing companies like Apollo, LG and IIFCO are using ValueFirst to mobilize their SFA (Sales Force Automation) and SCM (Supply Chain Management), while BPOs (Business Process Outsourcing) are using it to automate their roster management system, used for employee logistics.

ValueFirst not only created newer products and services but also created a suitable the business model to address the unique needs of small enterprises. ValueFirst has also replicated its model internationally with regional offices in Romania, UK, Pakistan, Nigeria and USA.

“One of the most interesting aspects of ValueFirst is the long-term value creation, as the business model ensures recurring revenue stream. This is of immense value as it ensures long-term profitability and de-risks the business. ValueFirst hopes to add another 250 to 300 customers by the end of this financial year”, said Mr. Vish Bajaj, CEO, ValueFirst.

ValueFirst is by far the largest MVNO serving the enterprise data market in terms number of customers.

Contact Details:

ValueFirst Messaging Pvt. Ltd

B17, Institutional Area,

Sector 32, Gurgaon, Haryana, India 122 001

Tel: +91 124 4042537/8

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

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Assumable Mortgage - an Option Open

2011-12-13T07:08:00.000-08:00

Assumable Mortgage - an Option Open

You don't have to sell the house for paying off. use assumable mortgages

(PRWEB) January 5, 2005

Everyday a new mortgage type gatecrashes into the arena. This is an attempt to get you familiar with those entrants. Here we will be analyzing - assumable mortgage.

Have you ever dreamt of selling off your mortgaged property?

Yes.

Then assumable mortgages provide you the opportunity to sell your property whose loan is not yet cleared. You can transfer the mortgage to a potential buyer.

Wondering who would take this unlikely risk of buying a pledged collateral?

The buyer inherits the old interest rate as well. This is what draws in the crowds. With the market rates increasing every day, it is the least expensive alternative for a new loan.

What is in it for the buyers?

They get a lower interest rate and thus lower monthly payments relative to the market. They can avoid the settlement costs on a new mortgage. But they must be responsible for the lien as well as other obligations henceforth.

The buyer must estimate the following before agreeing to the terms of an assumable mortgage.

Â Difference between the rates of the seller and the current rates

Â The amount of loan balance

Â The term for the earlier mortgage

Â The period you are hoping to opt for

The closing costs also include only the appraisal fees and title insurance.

What about sellers?

If the seller declares his property as assumable, he can sell it off easily. Rather than selling off the house and paying from the proceeds, you can transfer the mortgage at a higher price. Sometimes the seller remains liable to the mortgage usually secondarily. Then you will be overburdened and cannot take a new mortgage.

The lenders?

The lenders are at an utter loss because they cannot charge the current rates. Today they have an option of adding a due-on-sale clause (except in FHA and VA loans). This prevents them from changing the status to assumable property.

With interest rates climbing in the market and many mortgagors in the last leg of 25 or 30 year mortgages, assumable mortgage has become a viable option. Weigh your options properly before opting for this mortgage.

For more information, feel free to contact us at

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

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USBA Sends Out Call for Applications For Annual Dietrich Memorial Scholarship

2011-12-10T15:54:00.000-08:00

USBA Sends Out Call for Applications For Annual Dietrich Memorial Scholarship

USBA (Uniformed Services Benefit Association), today, sent out its call for applications for its annual William A. Dietrich Memorial Scholarship Fund. The scholarship awards a non-renewable $2,000 grant to selected individuals who are children of USBA’s members. Applications must be received at USBA headquarters no later than March 31, 2004

Kansas City, MO (PRWEB) January 10, 2004

"Chief among the eligibility rules is that the applicant must be a child, stepchild or foster child of a USBA member," says USBA’s Vice President of Human Resources, Chief Master Sergeant Ronald W. Culver, USAF (Ret.). "A USBA member is any eligible person who owns one of our insurance policies and there is no time limit on how long the member has been with us."

The scholarship was created to honor retired Air Force Major General Bill Dietrich who was president of USBA when he died. Dietrich also was a charter member of USBA, going back to its inception in 1959, and was first elected to the Board of Governors in 1972.

"It is the spirit of his friendship and leadership which we choose to memorialize with this scholarship," notes USBA’s current President/CEO, Rear Admiral Larry G. Vogt, U. S. Navy, (Ret.). "I especially enjoy the fact that we are honoring his memory by honoring the children of our membership."

Culver says that the money awarded may be used at the recipient's discretion for tuition, room and board. "Grants will be sent directly to the institution the recipient plans to attend," he explains. "They are awarded based upon established criteria qualifications."

To qualify, as a grant recipient, the applicant must:

 Be a child, stepchild or foster child of a USBA member in good standing both at the time of application and on scholarship payment date, if selected.

 Be a graduating high school senior.

 Display good character and citizenship.

 Rank in top 20% of high school class. Extra-curricular activities will be a consideration.

 Provide a high school transcript through the first semester of senior year if possible.

 Provide a recommendation by high school principal or guidance counselor.

Further information and a downloadable application on The Dietrich Scholarship can be found on the USBA website: http://www. usba. com/member/dietrich. html (http://www. usba. com/member/dietrich. html)

USBA is a nonprofit organization providing a variety of low-cost group life insurance plans and other financial services to the Active Duty and Retired Military market as well as Honorably Discharged Veterans, National Guard, Reserves and Federal civilian employees. With over 200,000 insured lives, USBA is one of the largest military associations offering life insurance plans.

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Presentation Skills Certification Program Launched: Train Others in Public Speaking

2011-12-09T02:42:00.000-08:00

Presentation Skills Certification Program Launched: Train Others in Public Speaking

Anyone can hang out a shingle and say they're in the training business. But before they can have any credibility and expertise in it, especially in the unique skill set of presentation skills, it takes years of practice and experience. Now there is a new option: get certified in offering a proven presentation skills workshop.

Charlotte, NC. (PRWEB) April 25, 2009

Now offered for the first time, the Compelling Speaker Certification program (http://www. compellingspeaker. com/certified) certifies people in how to train others in presentation skills, teaches them the management and marketing strategies to enable them to run a business with that training, and provides them with unique resources that position them for success. It's a program designed to give them the credibility and know-how that would otherwise take them years to acquire.

"In times like these, with the uncertainty and insecurity in the corporate job market, the Compelling Speaker Certification puts you in control of your destiny," says Certification leader Barbara Busey. "I created this program to enable others to do what I've done for the last 19 years and drive their own success. I want others to experience the satisfaction of making a living making a difference in people's professional development."

The Compelling Speaker (http://www. compellingspeaker. com) program is set apart from other presentation skills workshops through the use of an audio CD that provides the "instruction" to participants before the workshop. This means the workshop time is entirely devoted to participants' intensive, hands-on participation with several stand-up opportunities, videotaping, and individualized feedback.

The three-day certification program includes: immersion in the Compelling Speaker workshop to experience it firsthand; the instruction, tools and systems to run a business doing this training; additional follow-up coaching; and support from the Compelling Speaker Network. In addition, one full day will be devoted to marketing strategies delivered by a certified marketing coach.

Initial Certification training dates are: June 18-21, 2009; August 6-9, 2009; and September 24-27, 2009. All sessions will be held in Charlotte, NC. Certification fee for the three-day session includes hotel and meals.

To learn more and download the application form, go to The Compelling Speaker Certified (http://www. compellingspeaker. com/certified) Site.

The Compelling Speaker was created by Barbara Busey, the president/owner of Presentation Dynamics (http://www. presentationdynamics. net), who has 19 years of experience training people in the dynamics of presentations. Compelling Speaker clients have included companies in retail, banking, media, insurance, manufacturing, information technology, and academia. In addition to her audio CD, The Compelling Speaker, Busey has also produced a DVD, How to be a Dynamic S. P.E. A.K. E.R., and is the author of the book, Stand Out When You Stand Up--An A to Z Guide to Powerful Presentations.

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Reducing Healthcare Costs for Small Business with Treadmill Desks

2011-12-05T03:41:00.000-08:00

Reducing Healthcare Costs for Small Business with Treadmill Desks

Health care costs are spiraling out of control for many small businesses. Treadmill desks offer a solution that restores health and assists in lowering the overall cost of health care.

Phoenix (Vocus) November 25, 2008

TrekDesk, a manufacturer of treadmill desks, has launched an educational campaign demonstrating the disease preventative benefits of walking while working and the potential reduction in the overall costs of medical care for small business.

Walking has been shown clinically to prevent the onset of our nations leading diseases including Type 2 diabetes and some of the most virulent strains of cancer. "Consistent daily walking has been shown as an effective means of warding off disease, maintaining health and significantly decreasing the need for medical treatment, yet most Americans walk much less than the minimum recommended guidelines of 10,000 steps a day set by the Surgeon General due to the sedentary nature of our employment. As a result we have an overweight population with all of the health concerns that accompany issues of obesity," states TrekDesk founder Steve Bordley.

The National Coalition on Health Care (NCHC) reports that total spending on health care was $2.3 trillion last year, equivalent to $7600 per person. Health insurance premiums for a family of four sky rocketed to $12,100 during this same period and single coverage premiums averaged more than $4,400 annually.

One tactic to save on health care is to buy high deductible "catastrophic" health insurance which is significantly less expensive (as much as 50%-75% less) however this strategy must be combined with a commitment towards exercise and a healthy lifestyle.

The good news is that exercise does not have to be overly strenuous. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) report that walking three times per week for a minimum of 30 minutes reduces the risk of mortality from disease by 57%. Excerpts of numerous medical studies illustrating the the positive impact of consistent daily walking in preventing numerous diseases can be found at TrekDesk's website.

Unfortunately 2/3 of the American population is now categorized as overweight according to the CDC and less than 10% of the population is exercising on a regular basis. While Congress must focus on ridding our health care system of excessive administrative costs, fraud and mismanagement there must also be a call for personal action. "Prevention through a healthier lifestyle and exercise should play an integral role in our growing health care crisis but few politicians wish to risk the backlash of telling Americans they need to get out of their chairs and start moving," according to Bordley.

Desperate for answers, some state governments are considering instituting a "carrot and stick approach" to medical insurance programs. Alabama recently enacted a $300.00 annual increase for health care premiums to state employees that do not meet minimum health requirements and are unwilling to join their state wellness plan. Other nations are instituting more stringent guidelines as well. Japan has implemented a national program fining corporations if their employees do not meet specific weight and waistline guidelines.

Rising health care costs and insurance premiums are taking the availability of health care out of the hands of millions and placing a tremendous burden on our economy according to the NCHC, accounting for approximately 16% of our current GDP and expected to rise to 20% of GDP in eight years.

With health care costs rising at 2-3 times the rate of inflation a proactive emphasis on prevention seems more critical now more than ever before. Treadmill desks offer a solution which empowers employees to take control of their personal health and reduce their costs of medical care at the same time.

ABOUT TrekDesk : manufacturer of the first affordable full sized, adjustable workstation designed to fit an existing treadmill. TrekDesk allows walking while working, burning calories without sweating and enhancing an employee's health.

CONTACT:
Steve Bordley
TrekDesk
Ph: 877-449-8588
FAX: 877-449-8588
Info(at)trekdesk. com
Http://www. trekdesk. com

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FPS Umbrella's Top Tips To Beat Expense Stress For Contractors And Temps

2011-12-03T01:21:00.000-08:00

FPS Umbrella's Top Tips To Beat Expense Stress For Contractors And Temps

Make up to 40% in tax savings each payday by maximising allowable expenses.

Isle of Man, British Isles (PRWEB) February 25, 2008

Contractors and temps can alleviate financial stresses by maximising their income and making the most of their work expenses, advises FPS Umbrella (www. fpsumbrella. com). Providers of the easiest, fastest and simplest way to be paid for contract and temp work, the company offers the following top tips on how to beat the stress of expenses and keep your finances healthy through processing business expenses.

FPS Umbrella's top tips on maximising expenses:

1. Travelling between your home and your temporary workplace in your own car? Keep a diary of your mileage.
2. Working so late that you need a place to rest your head for a night or two? Make sure add your hotel bill to your expense claim.
3. Travelling some distance to the temporary workplace? Keep hold of train, plane, tube and taxi receipts.
3. Forget your toothbrush? Then Personal Incident Expenditure (PIE) lets you claim £5 for your miscellaneous items, when you have to stay overnight and for this you don't even need a receipt!
4. Need safety boots or any special attire in the work place? Don't let it break your bank...this kind of retail therapy can be expensed.
5. Tearing your hair out over sky high mobile bills? Itemising your business calls could save you a load.
6. Need a list of letters after your name to get the job? Then professional memberships and other subscription fees come off your bottom line.
7. Need cover in case things go wrong? Professional Indemnity insurance can save you in more ways than one and with FPS Umbrella, this is included.
9. Need some java to fuel your early morning start? Every coffee, sarnie and packet of crisps counts as subsistence.
10. And finally, the most important tip of all…always, always keep your receipts and don't claim more than you spend!

"The complex rules and regulations of expense claims can cause confusion and if you want to eliminate your personal stress down the line it's important to ensure all claims meet the necessary eligibility requirements," says Jen Monro, marketing manager for FPS Umbrella. "Ensure you are fully compliant with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) by getting expert advice on each claim."

FPS Umbrella's eligibility questionnaire was drawn up in consultation with HMRC. To find out how much you could be saving on expense claims, ring 0800 634 4848 for a free consultation including a personal estimate of your potential savings.
With FPS you can beat the stress, have a healthy heart and healthy finances.

Notes to Editors
Charterhouse Group International are a worldwide operation providing support services to the international recruitment and contract industry. FPS Umbrella, (www. fpsumbrella. com) is a branch of the Charterhouse Group that focuses on contractor services and is designed to eliminate the director responsibilities associated with a limited company.

Media Contact: Sherrilynne Starkie, Strive Public Relations Limited, Phone: +44(0)1624 613434

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Countrywide Bank Encourages Savings with New Community Savings Accounts

2011-11-30T22:56:00.000-08:00

Countrywide Bank Encourages Savings with New Community Savings Accounts

With only $25 needed to open, accounts are designed to benefit low - to moderate-income households in Dallas/Fort Worth, Washington, D. C.

Thousand Oaks, CA (Vocus) May 14, 2007

Countrywide Bank, FSB, a member of the Countrywide Financial Corporation (NYSE: CFC) family of companies, today announced the launch of its Community Savings Account product, an effort intended to encourage savings among consumers with household incomes designated as low-to-moderate. The product is making its debut in the Dallas/Fort Worth and Washington, D. C. metropolitan service areas.

"Saving is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure your financial future. We are eager to work directly with consumers and community-based organizations to grow the personal savings of individuals and families," says Countrywide Bank President and Chief Operating Officer Timothy Wennes. "Establishing a savings routine is often more important than how much you initially deposit in a savings account."

Wennes also notes that by consistently putting money aside each month people can move closer to fulfilling their goals, such as savings for college, buying a car or a home. "Beyond working toward financial goals, a savings plan is also an excellent way to build a "rainy day" fund so that you are prepared for life's unexpected expenses," says Wennes.

Community Savings Account Features
No monthly service fees or charges, unless the balance falls below $25 Tiered interest rates that reward savings by offering higher rates on higher account balances Unlimited monthly deposits and up to six withdrawals per month $25 minimum deposit to open the account

Residents in the Dallas/Fort Worth and Washington D. C. metropolitan services areas can apply for a Community Savings Account by phone at 1-866-846-4453 or go to our website to download an account application at https://bank. countrywide. com/community (https://bank. countrywide. com/community).

Countrywide Bank Background
Since its launch in 2001, Countrywide Bank has steadily expanded the reach of its financial centers to 13 states including: Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, Ohio, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Texas. Its 100th financial center opened in January 2007 in Smithtown, New York, on Long Island. Located within many Countrywide Home Loans branches, Countrywide Bank employs a unique, low-overhead strategy of offering expertly staffed financial centers designed to meet the diverse savings and investment needs of its customers. With $86 billion in assets, Countrywide Bank is the third largest federal savings bank in the country.

Countrywide Bank offers consumers diverse financial products, including SavingsLink SM a high-yield online savings account; high-rate CDs; and money market and retirement accounts, as well as quality investment and insurance products through Countrywide Investment Services, Inc.* With SavingsLink, individuals can earn interest rates among the highest in the nation on their savings, and maintain the flexibility to easily transfer money to and from their checking, money market or investment account.

About Countrywide Bank
Countrywide Bank, FSB, is a member of the Countrywide Financial Corporation (NYSE: CFC) family of companies. Countrywide Bank offers consumers highly competitive rates on certificates of deposit and money market accounts and, through its family of companies, also offers investment and insurance products. Customers can review banking products and services, check rates on deposits, and apply for new accounts by phone, online, or at one of the financial centers located throughout the country. In addition, the company offers the same superior rates and unsurpassed personalized service to its business customers through its Premier Business Banking and Commercial Banking Divisions. For more information about Countrywide Bank, visit http://www. countrywidebank. com (http://www. countrywidebank. com). Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

Countrywide Investment Services and Countrywide Insurance Services Products
Not FDIC Insured
Not Guaranteed By Any Bank
Not A Deposit
May Lose Value
Not Insured By Any Federal Government Agency

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Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Now Providing Free Orthopaedic Injury Exams on Saturday Mornings to Student Athletes

2011-11-29T05:31:00.000-08:00

Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Now Providing Free Orthopaedic Injury Exams on Saturday Mornings to Student Athletes

"Saturday Morning Athletic Training Room" started by renowned orthopaedic surgeons Dr. James R. Andrews and Dr. Lonnie Paulos now beginning its second year

Gulf Breeze, FL (Vocus) September 2, 2009

The Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine (http://www. theandrewsinstitute. com) is now providing free orthopaedic injury exams to high school and collegiate athletes on Saturday mornings. The Saturday Morning Athletic Training Room is available to any student athlete, in any sport, concerned about an injury. It will be held every Saturday beginning September 5, 2009 and operating through the end of the Football season.

Students may check-in from 8-9 a. m. in the Andrews Institute Rehabilitation center in Suite 101 on the Andrews Institute campus; located at 1040 Gulf Breeze Parkway in Gulf Breeze, Fla. The exams are provided on a walk-in basis and the initial assessment is done free of charge. The exams are available to any student athlete in the Gulf Coast area including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, and Mississippi.

The exams are given by an Andrews Institute (http://www. theandrewsinstitute. com) orthopaedic physician and a certified athletic trainer. If an injury is assumed, the athlete may undergo a round of diagnostic imaging and testing such as MRI or X-Ray to further diagnose their condition. Once a diagnosis is made, they may be referred to another physician for further exams to assess the need for rehabilitation and/or surgery. The additional testing would be billed to their insurance.

"The exams are being offered to athletes who are concerned about a potential injury," says Dr. James Andrews, founder and medical director of the Andrews Institute. "Many athletes are injured during their Friday games and activities. However, many are not aware that they have injured themselves until the next day. This increased availability of health care will further expedite the treatment needed in order to safely return these athletes to the field. This also gives their parents and coaches peace of mind knowing that immediate care is available."

Student athletes who are under the age of 18 must either be accompanied by their legal guardian or have a waiver signed by their parent. This form is available at the Andrews Institute web site, http://www. theandrewsinstitute. com (http://www. theandrewsinstitute. com). Athletes should also bring with them insurance documentation. Additional questions can be directed to Jeremy Lowery, director of sports medicine at (850) 916-8615 or Maria Halpin, patient referral manager, at (850) 916-8700.

Through its commitment to the schools, Baptist Health Care and the Andrews Institute provide comprehensive sports medicine services year round, both on and off the playing field, providing free physicals to over 3,000 athletes annually. Certified athletic trainers (ATCs) and team physicians are assigned to each high school in Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties in Florida, plus Foley High School in Alabama. Trainers visit the school daily to evaluate athletes. They provide coverage at practices and home games for injury evaluation and management, plus follow-up care. The ATCs and physicians are available to the coaches, parents and athletes for consultation, advice and assistance. The trainers help navigate athletes through the health care delivery process.

About the Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine:
Located minutes from Pensacola, Florida in Gulf Breeze, the Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine provides world-class care and service for the athlete in everyone. The Institute's 40 physicians and medical experts provide top-notch service to every patient and it's the only place in the world to offer surgery, diagnostic imaging, rehab and athletic performance training all on one campus. The one-of-a-kind center focuses on the prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal injuries while using the expertise of nationally and internationally renowned orthopaedic surgeon James Andrews, M. D. Dr. Andrews is best known as physician to some of sport's greatest professional athletes. http://www. theandrewsinstitute. com (http://www. theandrewsinstitute. com)

The Andrews Institute is an affiliate of Baptist Health Care. Baptist Health Care is a community-owned, not-for-profit health care organization committed to improving the quality of life for people and communities in Northwest Florida and South Alabama. Nationally recognized for performance excellence and quality achievement, Baptist has been recognized by FORTUNE Magazine as one of the 100 Best Companies to work for; received the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award in 2003; and has consistently ranked in the 99th percentile for patient satisfaction as recognized by Press Ganey. Baptist Health Care includes four hospitals, two medical parks, Baptist Manor, Baptist Home Health Care and Durable Medical Equipment, Baptist Leadership Institute, Andrews Institute for Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine and Lakeview Center. With more than 5,000 employees, Baptist Health Care is the largest non-governmental employer in northwest Florida. For more information, please visit http://www. ebaptisthealthcare. org (http://www. ebaptisthealthcare. org).

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Diversity Builder, Inc. Makes Supplier Diversity History

2011-11-27T18:01:00.000-08:00

Diversity Builder, Inc. Makes Supplier Diversity History

Diversity Builder becomes the first diversity training corporation to be supplier diversity certified by the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce.

Franklin, TN (PRWEB) April 29, 2006

The NGLCC announces Diversity Builder, Inc. as the first diversity training corporation to receive its supplier diversity certification. The NGLCC (National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce) is the exclusive certifying body for LGBT-owned (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) businesses and entrepreneurs.

Diversity Builder President Stanton stated, "The Diversity Builder staff has worked diligently to complete all certification requirements and was anxiously awaiting the announcement. To be the first training company to be certified by the NGLCC is an absolute honor. The supplier diversity certification will enable us to offer diversity training, website design, and Internet business marketing strategies to our new Fortune 500 and federal government partners."

The NGLCC certification has gained extensive acceptance by Fortune 100 companies since the program's inception in 2003. Participating Fortune 100 companies include IBM, JPMorgan Chase, Motorola, Intel, and American Express. In June of 2005, the Department of the Interior (DOI) became the first federal agency to agree to honor the NGLCC's certification, enabling LGBT businesses to bid on more than $4 billion dollars in contracts the DOI awards each year.

Diversity Builder, founded in 2003 by Debbie and Rachel Stanton, is a national business directory, networking site, and full service marketing firm. Clients include Farmers Insurance, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, Newport Furnishings, Remington College, and Planned Parenthood.

Debbie Stanton is available for interviews by contacting Diversity Builder at 615-794-5047. For more information on Diversity Builder or supplier diversity certification, visit http://www. DiversityBuilder. com (http://www. DiversityBuilder. com).

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Newly Launched Company Provides Solutions for Profitable Growth

2011-11-26T14:09:00.000-08:00

Newly Launched Company Provides Solutions for Profitable Growth

Insurance Insight Group enables companies in the life and annuity marketplace to enter new markets, build distribution, optimize marketing, and strengthen operations.

Park City, Utah (PRWEB) December 24, 2007

A newly launched firm provides solutions for companies looking for a strong and deep expertise specifically focused on the life insurance and annuity industry. Until now, finding product development, marketing, operations and independent agent experience all under one roof, has been extremely difficult. Insurance Insight Group (IIG) has solved this problem for insurance carriers and marketing organizations.

The founders of Insurance Insight Group include Chris Conklin, an actuary, product developer and agent training professional; Mark Stone, a high-level marketing strategist and technology expert; Steve Kennedy, an operations and finance executive. The group has also brought together additional expertise in their extended staff. The company's expertise is focused on helping companies in the life and annuity marketplace reach their targets faster, including entering new markets, building distribution, optimizing marketing and strengthening operations. IIG's clients currently include several national and international insurance carriers and nationally focused marketing organizations.

"The fact that our company can offer experience and perspective from all sides of the business -- independent agent, marketing organizations and carrier/home office really enriches the services and solutions we provide to our clients," said Founder and Actuary Chris Conklin. "We are focused on providing our clients with solutions that help them reach higher levels of success, faster and easier than if they attempted it on their own."

Also, in 2008, Insurance Insight Group will be unveiling the Integrity in SellingSM symposiums, which will provide a focused group of life insurance and fixed annuity companies with the opportunity to reach new audiences of independent agents throughout the country.

For more information, visit www. insuranceinsightgroup. com/inn (http://www. insuranceinsightgroup. com/inn).

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With an Abundant Supply of Safe, High Quality Medications, Canadian Internet Pharmacy Service is Poised to be the Drugstore to American People

2011-11-20T18:48:00.000-08:00

With an Abundant Supply of Safe, High Quality Medications, Canadian Internet Pharmacy Service is Poised to be the Drugstore to American People

Americans needing safe, affordable medications from Canada need not worry about drug shortage, says DoctorSolve.

Vancouver, B. C. (PRWEB) August 18, 2005

Recent comments from Canada's Health Minister Ujjal Dosanjh have many Americans concerned that Canada's medicine cabinet will one day be closed to them.

ÂCanada cannot be a drug store for the United States of America; 280 million people cannot expect us to supply drugs to them on a continuous, uncontrolled basis,Â he said at a news conference.

Dr. Paul Zickler, co-founder of DoctorSolve Canadian pharmacy services (www. doctorsolve. com) says that statement is an exaggeration. ÂAt no given time will Canada be expected to supply drugs to that number of people. In actual fact, the cross-border sales market is only 1.8 million people, and could possibly reach only three million,Â Zickler says.

ÂIt's a fallacy that every American is cross-border shopping for cheaper drugs. Most Americans have an insurance plan, which commonly prohibits them from buying from Canadian pharmacies.Â

ÂOur patient base is specifically defined. They are the elderly, with limited resources or without health insurance. They have very specific needs, such as chronic maintenance drugs for conditions such as high blood pressure, arthritis or diabetes.Â

Zickler points out that the Certified Internet pharmacies-those that are recognized by CIPA (Canadian International Pharmacy Association), the group that sets the standards for the reputable side of the Internet trade-work hard to understand who their customers are, and what they need. ÂWe're not interested in profiting from sales of the drug of the week. We prefer to concentrate our energies on finding an abundant supply of safe, affordable medications that our patients need in order to stay well and healthy.Â

Zickler adds that in many cases, Internet pharmacy services do not rely on Canadian supply to fill the prescriptions of their customers. ÂAt DoctorSolve, we work with hand-selected pharmacies from all over the world.Â Before approving the pharmacies for dispensing services, DoctorSolve conducts a personal tour and a thorough review of each to ensure that their quality control measures mirror those of DoctorSolve, and that they are able to meet the demand. ÂWe want to make sure that for our patients, the medicine cabinet is always open,Â Zickler says.

DoctorSolve, a Canadian Internet-based pharmacy intermediary (license #BC Q37), offers low-cost, long-term prescriptions. A professionally registered pharmacist fills all prescriptions. A certified member of the Canadian International Pharmacy Association, DoctorSolve is ranked as one of the best (five-star) online pharmacies by PharmacyChecker. com. DoctorSolve has filled more than 200,000 U. S. prescriptions.

For more information, call 1-866-732-0305 or visit http://www. doctorsolve. com (http://www. doctorsolve. com)

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Americas New Breed of Chiropractors Using Technology based on NASA Investigation: Engineers first to report the result of anti-gravity and its relation to Spinal Decompression

2011-11-18T20:41:00.000-08:00

Americas New Breed of Chiropractors Using Technology based on NASA Investigation: Engineers first to report the result of anti-gravity and its relation to Spinal Decompression.

How are today’s generation of Chiropractors having such amazing results with disc compression? NASA reports relation of anti-gravity and spinal decompression on vertebral disc. Virtually eliminates need for invasive disc surgeries.

New York, NY (PRWEB) January 5, 2006

How are today’s generation of Chiropractors having such amazing results with disc compression?

There is a street in New York City, like many streets in and around the Greenwich Village area that thousands of people walk down everyday. They pass the same buildings, offices and markets. Bustling to and from work, to the market, or to have lunch, day after day after day. Never hearing above the city noise, the lion’s roar that is coming from the same chiropractic office they pass everyday. But for people all over New York suffering from a fairly common, yet completely painful, and possibly debilitating spinal malady called Disc Compression, they can hear the lion’s roar load and clear.

Hundreds of thousands of Americans suffer everyday with Disc Compression or Herniated Discs. The loss of lifestyle created by this spinal infliction can be anything from day-to-day pain, to a complete inability to work and prosper. Yet for the most part, modern medicine has had to turn to surgery to try to contend with it.

However, the chiropractic office of Downing Chiropractic and Wellness Center and Dr. Steven Shoshany, on that street in New York, is having results just short of miraculous.

“I was scheduled for back surgery due to my disc problem and severe sciatic pain, my daughter suggested I try something like chiropractic before I got permanent surgery,” said Sahadai Persaud, one of Dr. Shoshany’s patients. “I cancelled the surgery which was

Scheduled for two weeks after my first visit with Dr. Shoshany, and three months into [Dr. Shoshany’s] care, the quality of my life has been greatly enhanced.”

“No more pain, no more sciatica or muscle weakness, and I can sleep at night,” he added. After six years of suffering and only a few months into his care, Mr. Persaud is now looking forward to getting back to work.

Shoshany is having tremendous results with his non - surgical methods and people are coming from all over the New York area for his treatment. He represents what is good in American health professionals, and was recently accepted for membership by the Internet’s most exclusive chiropractor directory, www. therightchiropractor. com. He does all that he can for the sake of helping his patients. “My insurance did not cover any care, so he made me a payment plan that was affordable and that I was able to work with. God bless Dr Shoshany,” concluded Mr. Persaud.

Downing Chiropractic and Wellness Center has adjusted to the constant flow of new patients and has recently gone through some expansion to make room. “Back pain is the number one reason people miss work, and costs the economy billions of dollars in lost

Wages,” said Shoshany. “I enjoy getting patients back to work, returning them to their lives and helping them become more productive without drugs or sometimes unnecessary surgery. There is a time and place for spinal surgery and disc repair but most of the time a conservative approach can drastically reduce pain and improve the quality of the patients’ life.” Dr. Shoshany continued, “Spinal decompression has been proven to be a successful treatment for herniated disc and sciatica problems.”

Any questions about any chiropractic issue or an impending surgery, please call 212-645-8151.

Dr. Steven Shoshany has been practicing in the New York area for ten years. His web address is www. drshoshany. com.

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Is Your Boss Covered? He Better Hope So

2011-11-13T21:39:00.000-08:00

Is Your Boss Covered? He Better Hope So

Is the British public at risk in the workplace? The last published figures indicated a 10% decrease in the workplace fatalities bearing in mind a high level of non-fatal injuries are not reported. Are employers to blame or are employees just negligent?

London, UK (PRWEB) March 14, 2006

The last thing on the average employees mind is having an accident at work, which is half the problem - awareness. Many businesses in the UK have gone bust as a result of employee claims and lack of due diligence in this area.

The BIBA (British Insurance Brokers' Association) claims that hundreds of small and medium sized firms have gone out of business in recent years because of a sharp increase in employer liability premiums, while a further 10,000 are at risk. Even though the government has agreed to explore ways of preventing small firms from going under due to steep rises in employer liability insurance, this will not infringe upon employee rights and the need for legal advice in such situations

The personal injury compensation claims company Claims Master Group http://www. claimsmastergroup. com/personal_injury_articles. htm (http://www. claimsmastergroup. com/personal_injury_articles. htm) have a number of articles written to guide consumers around the legal minefield and provide information on employee claims and employer liability.

In "Is Your Boss Covered?" Claims Master Group states "...it is also important to take note that if an employee is driving whilst on business and through negligence, causes a road traffic accident, the employer will be held responsible..." This is something which many a dodgy minicab firm should be weary of when last year alone 140 women were sexually assaulted in illegal minicabs

The website resources clearly define topics such as 'vicarious liability', responsibilities of an 'occupier', 'landlord' and who should really chase away 'trespassers'.

Nowadays the public turn to the internet for an immediate information fix, and there is a wealth of information on employer liability on UK websites.

It's not a free reign for employees to start falling downstairs. However, it does though highlight the need for useful information in layman's terms.

Many are beginning to frown on what is being termed a 'compensation culture'. Will this encourage employers to be more thorough providing a safe environment for their workers? If so, perhaps this is not such a bad idea, let joe bloggs be the judge.

# # #

A UFO Trashed My Car…

2011-11-13T07:40:00.000-08:00

A UFO Trashed My Car…

Flux moves to quell alien insurance fears…

(Vocus) January 21, 2009

Following recent news stories about a UFO allegedly wrecking a wind turbine, specialist car insurance broker Adrian Flux had a call from a curious customer asking what would happen if a UFO crashed into his car. Which got the Flux boffins thinking about what bizarre accidents were or weren't covered.

Amongst the potential disasters that are covered by normal car insurance schemes, assuming the driver has a comprehensive policy, are:
Monkeys wrecking the car on a drive through a safari park.

A block of frozen urine dropping from the sky and striking the car.

Ditto a meteor.

Crashing into a grand piano left on a hairpin bend of an Alpine pass (this one assumes the insurance includes European cover).

A kangaroo, on the hop from the local zoo, jumping over the car and wrecking the roof en route.

A mastermind criminal, operating from a satellite in geostationary orbit, holding the city council to ransom by taking over the traffic lights and causing gridlock in the streets, during which chaos the car is smashed.

A UFO crashing into the car.

However, if the UFO causes an accident by attacking the car, with, say, a photon torpedo, then that would be considered an act of war, and thus would not be covered. Similarly, if an intergalactic war led to Armageddon and resulted in the car being damaged, it would not be covered.

"It gets more complicated if a UFO hits a wind turbine, causing a rotor blade to shear off which then crashes into the car," says Gerry Bucke of Adrian Flux Insurance Services. "In that case, the car driver's best hope is that the UFO pilot's policy is completely up to date, as it would be simplest to make a claim on the alien's insurance. Otherwise there may be arguments as to who is responsible for the damage to the car…. In the worst case scenario, though, the car would be covered by our policy – it's just that a claim on it would affect the driver's No Claims Bonus."

Adrian Flux aims to offer cheaper car insurance and has a huge range of policies for the motoring enthusiast. For details contact the Adrian Flux quote line on 0800 505 3000, email the company at quotes(at)adrianflux. co. uk, or see the Flux homepage on http://www. adrianflux. co. uk

PRESS ENQUIRIES: UFO Trashed My Car. doc– Jan-09
Toni Turner or Alison Haynes at The Publicity Works
Tel: 01263 761000 Email: flux(at)publicityworks. biz
Gerry Bucke of Adrian Flux Insurance Services: 0800 505 3000

Notes for editors
On a comprehensive car policy most events and accidents will be covered. Amongst the few that aren't are wars, uprisings and the end of the world.

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Xtremesoft Announces Beta Release of AppMetricsÂ® for BizTalk Server; New Version Supports Microsoft BizTalk Server 2002 and Microsoft Operations Manager (MOM)

2011-11-11T10:28:00.000-08:00

Xtremesoft Announces Beta Release of AppMetricsÂ® for BizTalk Server; New Version Supports Microsoft BizTalk Server 2002 and Microsoft Operations Manager (MOM)

Xtremesoft, Inc. today announced the beta release of its latest version 2.0 of AppMetrics for BizTalk Server. This release showcases support for BizTalk Server 2002 and Microsoft Operations Manager (MOM), and features Xtremesoft's new Suspended Document Manager and RapidResponseSM Engine.

(PRWEB) February 9, 2002

Woburn, Massachusetts: February 6, 2002 - Xtremesoft, Inc. today announced the beta release of its latest version 2.0 of AppMetrics for BizTalk Server. This release showcases support for BizTalk Server 2002 and Microsoft Operations Manager (MOM), and features Xtremesoft's new Suspended Document Manager and RapidResponseSM Engine.

The Suspended Document Manager (SDM) shows the administrator the status of all suspended documents, individually the most time consuming administrative task associated with BizTalk. It provides full control through a comprehensive web interface; giving administrators drill down visibility into all suspended documents, through the use of multiple analysis views, including: a Trading Partner View, a Suspension State View, and a Document and Interchange View. Moreover, these views feature multiple attribute filtering, and allow you to easily act upon groups of suspended documents. Used in conjunction with the RapidResponse engine, it can automatically manage the suspended document queue.

The RapidResponse Engine utilizes BizTalk Server 2002, itself, to automate processing of document exceptions and errors that occur in normal, day-to-day operations. Because the handlers are implemented, using BizTalk Server 2002 Orchestration, they can be easily customized to match the specific needs of a customer's unique application. The engine is highly scalable and supports long duration queued requests and responses, enabling robust event handlers to be built. The Document Transmission Failure event handler, for instance, features automatic polling of a trading partner followed by automatic document resubmission when the channel is recovered.

"Organizations throughout the world are building business applications using BizTalk Server, and AppMetrics for BizTalk is an enterprise solution geared explicitly for managing these large scale, mission critical applications," said Michael Dexter-Smith, President and CEO of Xtremesoft. "Our latest product complements BizTalk Server 2002 and Microsoft Operations Manager (MOM) perfectly, and adds powerful features every administrator requires."

Availability

The beta is available now with final release expected in the second quarter. For a complete feature and function reference with side-by-side analysis of the management and monitoring features found in BizTalk Server 2002 and its Microsoft Operations Manager management pack; or to request entry into the beta program, go to: www. xtremesoft. com/beta (http://www. xtremesoft. com/beta) for more information.

About AppMetrics for BizTalk Server 2002

AppMetrics for BizTalk Server 2002 complements BizTalk Server by helping organizations successfully manage their BizTalk Server applications and servers. This application monitoring system tracks the business processes, messages, and activities running within BizTalk Server systems. Applications managers and system administrators can monitor the day-to-day health of BizTalk Server deployments, and receive notification of problems before their customers or trading partners are affected. Furthermore, whether beginning a pilot or fully deployed, AppMetrics for BizTalk Server's production reporting and analysis system enables you to collect the information you need to develop and verify service level agreements (SLAs) and perform capacity planning.

About Xtremesoft

Xtremesoft is the leading provider of software solutions that allow organizations to derive business intelligence from their MTS, COM+ and BizTalk Server 2000 (.NET) applications. Xtremesoft AppMetricsÂ® solutions make these applications more reliable and efficient by improving control and uptime, reducing outages and bottlenecks, and by increasing their ROI and improving customer metrics. Xtremesoft solutions are the de facto market standard and are in use today by Merrill Lynch, Skandia Banken, ADP, American Family Insurance, IDG, Schwan's Sales Enterprises and GMAC, among others. Contact Xtremesoft at 781.937.3800 or visit our website at www. xtremesoft. com for more information.

GE LTC Leader Joins LTC Global

2011-11-07T00:26:00.000-08:00

GE LTC Leader Joins LTC Global

Reno, NV (PRWEB) January 17, 2004

LTC Global Solutions, Inc., a privately held corporation dedicated to the long term care insurance and reinsurance markets, has named Tom Skiff to the companyÂs top post of Chief Executive Officer. Skiff comes to LTC Global from GE Capital, where he lead the companyÂs Long Term Care Division from 1994 to 2001, and subsequently served as president of GE Long Term Care Reinsurance Services. With his leadership GEÂs Long Term Care Division expanded from $50 million to $200 million in annual placed premium.

ÂWe are delighted to have someone of TomÂs caliber and unique qualifications join our growing organization,Â said Richard Pitbladdo, LTC GlobalÂs CFO and former CEO. ÂHis track record of leading GE CapitalÂs Long Term Care Division to become the worldÂs largest and most profitable long term care insurer speaks volumes. Many of our board members had the privilege of working closely with Tom when he subsequently founded the reinsurance division, and witnessed first-hand his integrity, dedication, and business sense.Â

Skiff will lead LTC Global as it develops and grows its distribution, reinsurance brokerage, asset acquisition, and management consulting business lines. Pitbladdo will continue with the company in the CFO position.

LTC Global Solutions was founded as a boutique management consulting business in 2002, employing the risk management expertise of its principals to help insurers and reinsurers improve the level and long-term stability of profit for their long term care insurance businesses. In 2003 the company started its asset acquisition business by purchasing commission cash flows from long term care agents and agencies.

In September 2003, LTC GlobalÂs subsidiary, LTC Capital, paid $27.5 million to Conseco to purchase the insurance agency ACSIA, which in 1974 partnered with FiremanÂs Fund American Life Insurance Company to launch long term care insurance in the U. S. Tom Eaton, will continue as ACSIAÂs president. SkiffÂs experience overseeing GEÂs long term care career agency force will benefit ACSIAÂs growth initiatives.

LTC Global intends to pursue the acquisition of more LTC agencies during 2004.

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MEDIA CONTACT:

Michael Rauch

415-577-7972

Giving Up Smoking Can Reduce a Life Insurance Policy by up to 43%

2011-11-05T23:25:00.000-07:00

Giving Up Smoking Can Reduce a Life Insurance Policy by up to 43%

Smokers who have been inspired to quit following the national No Smoking Day on Wednesday could see significant financial benefits from kicking the habit in addition to the improvements to their health. Those who have taken out life insurance cover to protect their families could save up to 43% on their monthly premium costs, which could add up to thousands over the life of a policy term, according to consumer finance website SimplyFinance.

(PRWEB) March 12, 2010

After giving up smoking, cleaner lungs and a healthier lifestyle are only two of the positive physical changes people notice. However, those who have life insurance protection may also be surprised to learn how much difference being a non-smoker could make to their premium costs once they have been smoke-free for 12 months.

Katie Jenkins, Site Editor at SimplyFinance (http://www. simplyfinance. co. uk) comments, "People should be aware that quitting smoking has a really positive effect on all areas of their finances. The most immediate consequence is being better off each month to the tune of several hundred pounds; money that can be put into a savings account, used for paying off debts or to treat the family. However in the longer-term, life insurance policyholders could be saving on their monthly premium payments too from 12 months after kicking the habit. This can add up to thousands over the term of a policy."

Male and female non smokers would save 43%* on their premiums when compared to those paid by smokers. The premium for a non smoking male falls to £14.31 from £25.45 for a smoker, and a female £11.30 rather than £20.40.

While applicants must not have used tobacco or nicotine replacement products for 12 months to qualify as a non smoker, existing policyholders could start saving straight away. “Many policyholders will not be aware how far the cost of life assurance has fallen in recent years, so even if they don’t yet qualify as a non-smoker, they could still make substantial savings” said Richard Morea of London & Country.

To find out more about the free advice and support that is available to help with quitting smoking, visit the No Smoking Day website (http://www. nosmokingday. org. uk) or apply for a free NHS Quit Kit (http://smokefree. nhs. uk/quit-tools/quit-kit/). For more information about the types of Life Insurance available, visit the SimplyFinance Life Insurance (http://www. simplyfinance. co. uk/Insurance/Life-Insurance. html) pages.

To help policyholders check the competitiveness of their premiums London & Country has launched the 1 Minute Life Insurance Check (http://www. lcplc. co. uk/lifecheck). Answering a few simple questions will allow the user to see whether they are paying too much for their life assurance.

*Based on a 35-year old taking £200,000 level term assurance over 25 years.

Notes to Editors

SimplyFinance. co. uk is a personal finance website (http://www. simplyfinance. co. uk) that exists to help consumers manage their money more effectively. SimplyFinance. co. uk provides a range of informative content, tools and calculators to empower consumers to make more informed financial choices.

London & Country (http://www. lcplc. co. uk) (L&C) is the UK’s leading no-fee mortgage broker. Based in Bath, it provides award winning whole of market advice nationwide. As well as residential mortgages, it also advises on specialist mortgage sectors, and the protection market.

Press Contacts:

Katie Jenkins, Site Producer, SimplyFinance
Office: 0207 341312
Mobile: 07881 821425

Richard Morea, Technical Manager, London & Country
Office: 01225 341312
Mobile: 07970 885168

David Hollingworth, Head of Communications, London & Country
Office: 01225 341211
Mobile: 07710 634044

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Effektive Solutions Launches MyMarketWare, A New Single Property WebSite Solution & How-to Blog

2011-10-28T06:55:00.000-07:00

Effektive Solutions Launches MyMarketWare, A New Single Property WebSite Solution & How-to Blog

Win listings, gain exposure for them, and distinguish yourself in your market area...with MyMarketWare. com. MyMarketWare gives you the solution and the tools for effectively marketing your real estate properties.

San Francisco, CA (PRWEB) February 21, 2008

Effektive Solutions LLC, announces the launch of a new single property Website solution entitled MyMarketWare (http://mymarketware. com (http://mymarketware. com)). MyMarketWareprovides a premier single property Website solution coupled with real estate marketing advice. "MarketSites" incorporate key technology features with unlimited property information to give listings the online presence they deserve.

Choose from beautiful generic and company branded designs. Include up to 100 high resolution pictures, video, podcasts, and blog. All the major mapping engines are embedded, as well as Microsoft's Live Earth with the bird's eye view. Syndicate your MarketSite to Google, Yahoo, Trulia, Popsmart, Homescape, and more! Add the "featured listings" widget to your real estate blog or Website one time and it automatically updates with each new MarketSite you create. The "Click to Talk" feature allows your Website viewers to call you instantly! And it's all risk free! Sign in and register for a free account, create your site for free, use it for listing presentations and activate once you've won the listing. Single MarketSites are $39 each, with bulk pricing available.

Nicole Nicolay, Effektive Solutions Co-Founder, adds, "MyMarketWare not only offers the solution, but the how-to. We'll be blogging about how to best utilize the features available on MarketSites and keep you in the loop with the industry's best marketing ideas and resources. With MyMarketWare, agents will win more listings, maximize exposure for them, and distinguish themselves in their market."

For more information and to create your FREE account, visit MyMarketWare (http://mymarketware. com (http://mymarketware. com)). For additional questions and inquiries, contact Nicole Nicolay at nicole@mymarketware. com.

Effektive Solutions LLC is a real estate marketing and technology solutions company based in the San Francisco Bay Area. Founders, Sarah Fields and Nicole Nicolay, have created online technology solutions which assist over 30 title insurance operations. They have now turned their attention toward helping real estate agents with their marketing strategies and online presence by adding MyMarketWare to their successful suite of products and services.

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Home Care & Hospice Associations Form New Organization; Connecticut Association for Home Care & Hospice

2011-10-22T20:52:00.000-07:00

Home Care & Hospice Associations Form New Organization; Connecticut Association for Home Care & Hospice

Merger of Connecticut's home care and hospice organizations brings together two groups with common issues and common goals.

Wallingford, CT (PRWEB) February 3, 2008

The Connecticut Association for Home Care and the Connecticut Council for Hospice & Palliative Care have officially merged to create a new single organization called the Connecticut Association for Home Care & Hospice (CAHCH).

The impetus for merger sprang from a two-year contractual relationship between the two separate organizations in which they worked closely and attained meaningful synergies.

"This new organizational structure creates a forum for advancing mutually beneficial ideas, not to mention the increased efficiencies in serving members," said Brian D. Ellsworth, President & CEO of CAHCH. "This merger also reinforces the continuum of care that exists in Connecticut."

Home care and hospice share many things in common, including:
Prevention of avoidable hospitalization and institutional placement Maximized patient autonomy & choice Inclusion of loved ones in care for the patient Participation with third party programs, such as Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance & Veterans Administration

"Together we are a strong voice when it comes to shaping--and improving--end of life care," said Don Schumacher, President & CEO of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization.

For more information contact Brian Ellsworth at 203-265-9931 or 860-874-6169 (cell).

About the Connecticut Association for Home Care & Hospice:
CAHCH's members include home health agencies, hospices, homemaker-companion agencies and other providers of home care and services. CAHCH supports its members in the delivery of exceptional quality and accessible home care and hospice services.

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Atiam Technologies Announces New Company Name: InsPro Technologies

2011-10-22T20:02:00.000-07:00

Atiam Technologies Announces New Company Name: InsPro Technologies

Recent Advisory Board appointment of Klaus P. Besier and redesigned website reflect technology innovation and momentum in life & health insurance market

Eddystone, PA (PRWEB) May 18, 2009

Atiam Technologies, a leading provider of life & health insurance management solutions, today announced the official re-branding of the company name to InsPro Technologies (http://www. inspro. com). Changing the company name to align with InsPro Enterprise, its flagship solution, will simplify customer identification of the company and underline decades of experience and commitment to the insurance industry.

"Our new name and tagline -- Insurance Dedication. Inspired Innovation. -- truly reflect our customer commitment and value that InsPro delivers to insurers and administrators across North America," said Robert Oakes, President and CEO of InsPro Technologies. "The name InsPro embodies not only our market-leading policy management platform, but also over 20 years of insurance experience, specifically in life and health."

In a single insurance policy administration platform, InsPro Enterprise offers unparalleled accuracy and visibility for improved business performance, faster product launches and lower IT costs. InsPro reaches the entire enterprise from marketing to operations, spans the entire product and policy lifecycle from development to claim, and offers integrated support for all channels, all policies and all users.

The recent appointment of Klaus P. Besier as the first member of InsPro Technologies' Strategic Advisory Board better positions the company for market expansion and strategic growth. Besier brings decades of experience in creating and guiding technology market leaders, ranging from tenures as President & CEO of SAP Americas and Neoware to his current role as Executive Chairman of Pramata Corporation.

"Klaus' deep expertise in business leadership, in conjunction with his exceptional track record in the technology industry, makes him an ideal advisor to the InsPro team as we expand our reach," said Oakes. "We are already benefiting from his contribution to InsPro's success."

"InsPro has demonstrated all of the critical success factors necessary to become the industry standard for life & health insurance software, and I'm thrilled to take part in its momentum," said Besier. "As the company enters its next growth phase, its balance of technology innovation and a strong customer focus will pave the road to market leadership."

InsPro today also launched a new corporate website at http://www. inspro. com (http://www. inspro. com). The redesigned site features expanded content and a fresh design to provide visitors with a more streamlined and appealing online experience.

Editors' note: InsPro Technologies will be participating in the ACORD LOMA Insurance Systems Forum at the Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort in Orlando, Florida, from May 17-19 (booth 610).

About InsPro Technologies
InsPro Technologies offers the most comprehensive, flexible and innovative insurance management solutions in the industry. Designed specifically for Life & Health insurers, our flagship solution, InsPro Enterprise, manages the entire product and policy lifecycle in a single integrated platform. Using InsPro, companies can launch new products in half the time, lower IT support costs by up to 50%, increase customer retention and improve operational performance. Built on a proven and scalable web-based architecture and an insurance-fluent configuration engine, InsPro can be deployed in weeks for the industry's fastest-time-to value. InsPro Technologies also offers hosting and application maintenance for complete support. The company was founded in 1986 and is based in suburban Philadelphia. For more information, please visit http://www. inspro. com (http://www. inspro. com).

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Conner Strong Customer Data Integration Case Study Published

2011-10-19T06:09:00.000-07:00

Conner Strong Customer Data Integration Case Study Published

Commercial insurance brokerage benefits from developing a single customer view with SingleVision® customer data integration software from Business Development Solutions.

Mount Laurel, NJ (PRWEB) October 24, 2008

Business Development Solutions, Inc. ("BDS") announces the publication of a customer data integration case study outlining its implementation of SingleVision® software for Conner Strong.

Conner Strong (http://www. connerstrong. com), the 18th largest privately held brokerage and 31st largest insurance brokerage in the country, is a leading provider of property and casualty insurance and employee benefits products and services. BDS is the developer of SingleVision®, the customer data integration software application that links organizational and contact information from separate data silos in order to provide a single customer view.

The case study is a follow up to a joint presentation on customer data integration by Robert Bloom, President of BDS, and Timothy Casey, CIO of Conner Strong, at The 6th Annual Insurance Direct Marketing Forum in Philadelphia on September 15, 2008.

"This case study provides an overview of the marketing challenges caused when data from multiple sources is stored in separate databases and how Conner Strong was able to overcome these challenges by coordinating all their data to develop a single customer view using BDS's SingleVision customer data integration software," says Bloom.

Please click here to download the case study detailing Conner Strong's single customer view (http://www. bdsdatabase. com),

Please click here for additional information on customer data integration (http://www. allthingsdata. com) and related subjects.

About Business Development Solutions:
Since 1991, BDS has been focused on helping marketers of all sizes identify, analyze, and serve their customers and prospects more effectively. With this experience, BDS has developed the advanced data matching and linking processes of SingleVision to maximize the value and accessibility of the data BDS' client companies use and maintain.

About Conner Strong:
Founded in 1959, Conner Strong is headquartered in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. Each year, Conner Strong places more than $1 billion in premium volume and has a team of nearly 400 insurance professionals, serving clients throughout the United States and abroad.

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Wellness NOW, a Colorado 501c3, establishes fund to pay for healthcare for poor and those whose insurance does not cover treatments

2011-10-14T13:24:00.000-07:00

Wellness NOW, a Colorado 501c3, establishes fund to pay for healthcare for poor and those whose insurance does not cover treatments.

Wellness NOW, a Colorado 501c3, in cooperation with The Colorado Center of Traditional Medicine, has established a fund to pay for healthcare. The people served by this fund are the elderly, patients without health insurance, and patients whose insurance does not cover alternative medicine treatments including Acupuncture.

(PRWEB) February 1, 2003

(Denver, CO) Â Noreen Teachout of Wellness NOW, A Learning Place Inc. in cooperation with The Colorado Center of Traditional Medicine has established a fund that will pay for Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) therapies for victims of violent crimes, elderly patients, and patients without health insurance or whose health insurance does not pay for "alternative" therapies. According to Ms. Teachout, "Wellness NOW is filling the gap in healthcare by offering information and access to therapists who are certified in traditional, ancient, alternative therapies.

The Board of Wellness NOW is also seeking help with fundraising ideas and strategies. Any help with this project will be greatly appreciated by us and by patients who need care but can't afford it." Martha Lucas, Ph. D., L. Ac. of The Colorado Center of Traditional Medicine says "It is my firm belief and my experience that TCM works and that people heal even though they feel that they have reached the end of their rope and have used all of the options offered by modern medicine. Therefore, it is hard for me to turn people away because their insurance doesn't cover treatment and they can't afford it. The program that Wellness NOW is offering will fill that need."

Patients will be treated either at The Colorado Center of Traditional Medicine located in the Capitol Hill area of downtown Denver or in Fort Collins at Greyrock Family Practice, 1240 Doctors Lane near Poudre Valley Hospital. Donations can be sent to Wellness NOW, 1255 19th Street #1609, Denver, Colorado 80202-1434 in the name of a particular person or just as a general donation to pay for services rendered to the needy. The fees that practitioners will be paid for treatments range from $50 to $75. Lucas says "if benefactors could see their way clear to pay for a series of treatments, say 10, for a particular patient, that would be spectacular!" For more information you may call 303-295-2944 or send an email to The Colorado Center of Traditional Medicine at DrMLucas@AcupunctureWoman. com.

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National Grassroots Group Takes Up Dying Girl's Cause

2011-10-12T09:35:00.000-07:00

National Grassroots Group Takes Up Dying Girl's Cause

Charlotte's "Web" of a Battle Escalates with Insurer Great-West Over Denial of Home Nursing Care

Seattle, WA (PRWEB) February 6, 2005

A firestorm of media attention is building around a dying girl named Charlotte and her struggle to receive nursing care at home rather than in the hospital. Today, following news coverage by local and regional television stations earlier this week, a national grassroots organization has weighed in. It has launched an Internet campaign to increase pressure on Charlotte's family's insurance company to "do the right thing."

Multiple television news stories about Charlotte's family and their predicament aired throughout Washington, Oregon, Idaho, western Montana, northern California and Alaska on stations KING-5, KONG 6/16 and the regional Northwest Cable News channel on February 1. The Colorado-based insurer, Great-West Life & Annuity, has taken the unusual step of denying home nursing care to three year-old Charlotte. In nearly all similar cases, according to Children's Hospital and Regional Medical Center in Seattle, insurers will convert benefits to allow terminally ill children to spend their final weeks and months at home rather than in a hospital.

"It's heartless," observed Kathleen O'Connor, founder and CEO of CodeBlueNow!, the national grassroots organization that has taken up Charlotte's cause. "Great-West will pay for hospital care but not less costly care at home," she said. "Where other insurers almost always convert benefits to allow for home nursing care, Great-West has abandoned Charlotte's family when they needed coverage the most. Ironically, they would provide home care if she were not dying. That's simply un-American."

CodeBlueNow!, with members in 46 states, is a nonprofit, nonpartisan group that uses the Internet to advocate for fundamental health care reform. To help Charlotte's family pressure Great-West, the organization has begun a "viral marketing" campaign, sending e-mail to thousands of supporters nationwide. The e-mail urges recipients to take action and tell a friend. It directs them to a website (http://www. codebluenow. org/charlotte (http://www. codebluenow. org/charlotte)) to write, fax or e-mail Great-West's CEO, calling on the company to let Charlotte receive nursing care at home. The e-mail also includes a 60-second video with shots of Charlotte and her family.

Despite onslaught of negative attention, Great-West has so far refused to budge. In a statement to KING-5, a company spokesperson claimed that Charlotte's family has been told "three times" that home nursing care is not covered by their policy. Great-West has avoided responding directly to reports that other insurers would convert benefits under similar circumstances.

"Charlotte's situation is emblematic of a larger national crisis facing American families and their employers," remarked O'Connor, who is also publisher of The O'ConnorReport, author of The Buck Stops Nowhere: Why AmericaÂs Health Care is all Dollars and No Sense, and 26-year veteran of health care analysis. "This could happen to anyone in America. With half of all bankruptcies due to medical bills, our flawed health care system is driving Americans out of house and home. Just this year, Tennessee cut 323,000 from its health care rolls." O'Connor argues that CodeBlueNow!'s nonpartisan efforts to reform the system are more needed now than ever.

Charlotte is fortunate in one respect. The State of Washington's Department of Developmental Disabilities was able to provide a special one-time exemption that allows 16 hours per day of home nursing care through a Medicaid-funded program. However, her family must augment this care with costly high-risk insurance on top of their monthly premiums to Great-West.

As the e-mails and letters continue to pile up at Great-West's headquarters, CodeBlueNow! vows to "turn up the heat" until the company agrees to cover Charlotte's home nursing care. "They don't know what's about to hit them," says O'Connor. "You don't mess with a dying three year old girl. And you don't mess with a family that simply wants to spend time with their child, instead of filing insurance appeals. Great-West is about to learn this lesson the hard way."

About CodeBlueNow!

CodeBlueNow! is a non-partisan, national 501(c)3 non-profit organization that is mobilizing grassroots efforts to transform the financing, delivery and management of the American health care system, by assuring that the public has a voice in shaping health care policy. The organization has grown from 30 people in October 2003 to having thousands of supporters in 46 states and an online radio show. More information is online at: http://www. codebluenow. org (http://www. codebluenow. org).

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TELEMATICS TURNKEY BUSINESS START-UP. A TOTAL CUSTOMISED SERVICE SOLUTION FROM MOBINTELECOM

2011-10-11T18:40:00.000-07:00

TELEMATICS TURNKEY BUSINESS START-UP. A TOTAL CUSTOMISED SERVICE SOLUTION FROM MOBINTELECOM

The entry of adventurers and opportunists exploiting the current demand for Telematics Security by attempting to destroy the image of Telematics Fleet Asset Management and Security market even before it even starts, has opened a new dimension in service solution opportunity to Mobintelecom of Helsinki. Unlike an old NMT mobile telephone, the installation of Telematics GSM-GPRS-GPS Black Boxes with all its security sensors, and integrating them with sophisticated embedded security loop of a high technology expensive vehicle, is a seriously sensitive affair. Failure may cost a few hundred thousand dollars, or even place one or several human lives at risk. Now Mobintelecom Oy Helsinki offers a Total Solution in services deployment!

(PRWEB) February 18, 2003

Due to many enquiries from several Eastern and Central European countries as well as from the Middle East, Mobintelecom Oy has now created a Total Telematics Turnkey Start-up Package to deploy TrakM8Â¨ GSM-GPRS-GPS hardware and VISTAÂª Remote Asset Management software, customised to meet the specific demands of each customer.

ÃToo many over zealous salesmen, selling and Ãoff-loadingÃ sub-functional, non-operational ÃTelematicsÃ hardware, with little or no software, or after sales back-up support, are destroying the market in its infancyÃ states Stephen Lowe, COO of Mobintelecom Oy of Helsinki.

Such unscrupulous salesmen and the Internet sales distribution programmes are bringing the entire Telematics services industry into disrepute. Once a deal is done over the Internet and the transfer of funds has taken place, many end-users have experienced that, the hardware is not delivered as promised, or delivered at all, or as in most cases, when delivered, the hardware simply did not function at all.

Getting a refund from the supplier or the manufacturer is almost impossible, since the Terms & Conditions (in small print) stipulate that, during the three or six month ÃguaranteeÃ period, the supplier may replace the defective product(s), without any recourse to a refund, at its own discretion, subject to satisfactory inspection. Thus comfortably hiding behind a high handed legal facade, but in breach of all civilised business conduct.

Several such claims currently under litigation, where Telematics products were returned due to serious malfunction, and returned to the supplier and the manufacturer, and with disputes on refunds, are being carefully watched by several major media, in order to protect the unweary end users.

The next point in the logistical sequence, is the functionality of the hardware. Whilst some of the low cost hardware products have non-configurable embedded Firmware, many suppliers suggest that their hardware may operate through the Internet using a PC Laptop or a Mobile handset. But most of these salesmen neglect or fail to inform the customer on the functional technicalities, such as the (availability of) GIS mapping or connectivity to the Internet, leaving the poor end user, ÃAll dressed-up and nowhere to go!Ã

ÃThe two facets of Internet, one as a marketing tool, is brilliant, another as bait to lure the unsuspected. Yet the Internet can never compete with the local personal human interface, on the ground, when it comes to solving a critical problem, related to non-functionality of any product, especially in security applicationsÃ, says Lowe.

A security device which is supposed to protect an asset valued at US$ 100,000.00 or more, should ideally be purchased and deployed, via a reputable local organization, which can offer a performance guarantee. The role of Internet is to offer comprehensive information on the product, the services organizations and possibly a competitive analysis.

Especially when the owner of a brand new and expensive motor vehicle has suffered a total electronics failure due to an installation fault or a product malfunction, the frustrated owner desperately demands instant attention. Also there is a possibility that such an unauthorised product installation may invalidate the OEM warrantee.

ÃThis is one very good reason why we NEVER deliver our hardware to the end user directly, but only as a Comprehensive Turn-key Solution, fully deployed, delivered by our competent Technical PartnersÃ says Lowe.

"Furthermore, we stand behind our products and our Preferred Partners such as WS2 Ltd, IPL, Securitas, Telia-Sonera, Alfaline, FSM offer an unparalleled highest quality support service, with integrity", confirms Lowe.

The Mobintelecom Technical Turn-key Solution includes, hardware professionally installed, supported by a Telia-Sonera SIM Card, customised VISTAÂª software package, an option to integrate with a Securitas 24x7 professional monitoring service or a personal monitoring option using the WS2 Ltd VISTAÂª utility from Dublin Ireland, financial leasing and an insurance package.

Since the Telematics Remote Asset, Fleet Management, and Security Solutions are still in its infancy, Mobintelecom Oy utilising the experience in Finland and Russia, has produced a Total Business Pack to support the Main Importer-Distributor-Installer Business Plan, as well as those who wish to set up a comprehensive Dealer and End User Service Plan.

Many companies have entered the Telematics Security Solutions market simply to make a Ãquick buckÃ, simply to dump the hardware and consequently many end-users are going to suffer substantial damages. Using the technical experience and the operational expertise of companies within the Mobintelecom loop, such as Maxon, IPL, WS2, Telia-Sonera, Securitas, Alfaline, Mobintelecom has decided to transfer the total know-how package to new entrepreneurs.

ÃOur main priority is to use only tried and tested hardware and fully functional software, with on-going supportÃ, states Lowe, Ãand in this case we have had positive operational experience with TrakM8Â¨ GSM-GPRS-GPS Black Boxes and VISTAÂª softwareÃ.

The Total Service Package may include following options-;

1: Market Planning and Definition of Priorities

*Definition of priority target groups according to applications applicable to that particular local market.

*Definitions on hardware, software options to service defined applications.

For example, not every market is suffering from theft of motor vehicles or mandatory logging of vehicle data.

*Planning of support infrastructure to give the end user a seamless services solution.

2: Assistance on planning and building of infrastructure, which includes-;

*Sales training and motivation,

*Management & Financial control,

*Banking, Insurance, Mobile Service Provider support

*Pilot installation of demonstration vehicles,

*Deployment and testing for functionality,

*Training of technicians on installation into luxury vehicles,

*Supply of the necessary wiring diagrams and schematics,

*Training of local security services on specific functions and installations,

*Integrating Telematics with embedded and/or after market security devices,

*Availing the professional Services Help-Line to main customers.

3: WS2 Ltd VISTAÂª Software Customisation & Integration, supported directly by specialists from WS2 Ltd, Dublin, Ireland.

*Integrating VISTAÂª customised software pack locally or connect with the central server in Dublin, Ireland,

*On-going management services programme,

*Supplying GIS mapping,

*Localisation and customisation of VISTAÂª

*Setting up of local monitoring facility parallel to VISTAÂª in Dublin

The operational functions of Mobintelecom in Finland are supported by three of the most reputed, technically competent, and reliable companies in the field.

*Alfaline, the importer distributor of Cobra Car Alarms and Security Systems, is the market leader in Finland, has been operational over eighteen (18) years. Alfaline is the main distributor of all Fleet Asset Management and Security equipment, supplied by Mobintelecom, through its 150+ dealer installer network.

*Fonel Security Marketing is one of the leading operators in Fixed Asset Security Management, with a dealer installer network of over 150 outlets.

*Huoltorep engineers have been the official Rolls-Royce and Bentley distributors in Finland and specialises in servicing and technicalities of Daimler-Chrysler Mercedes Benz, BMW, Ferrari, Range Rover, Hummer and a host of premier marques, over 35 years. Huoltorep specialises in supporting the Mobintelecom Russian client installation programmes.

Supported by the technical know-how and experience of highly qualified engineers and technicians, Mobintelecom is in an enviable position to transfer high value Intellectual Property and operational expertise to selected legal entities in the European or Middle Eastern regions.

The initial investment for the customised Total Telematics Turnkey Start-up Package, may be recovered during the first 100 installations or during one month of professional sales-installation operations.

With the each purchase of 100 units, Mobintelecom is offering an ACER PC Laptop completely Free-of-Charge.

This is a preferable cost-effective option than compensating for a BMW 7 Series or similar, blown up after an amateur incompetant installation with unpredictable hardware.

Since due to prevailing market interest, Mobintelecom can only accept a limited number of clients during 2003, over and above the current potential clients. Interested potential business operators are advised to contact Stephen Lowe, for a preliminary evaluation, soonest at-; http://www. mobintele. com/ (http://www. mobintele. com/)

-ENDS-

Together We Serve - The People On The Move!

GSM GPS Modem, Covert Antenna, Secure Installation, Comprehensive Software Pack,

Finance & Leasing, Total Security Surveillance, Insurance.

Telematics Protect Your Employees, Vehicles and Cargo with Total Security!

Please visit-;

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

More Aircraft Owners are Leasing to Reduce Costs

2011-10-03T21:16:00.000-07:00

More Aircraft Owners are Leasing to Reduce Costs

With the increasing cost of fuel and higher insurance premiums, more aircraft owners are turning to leasebacks to lower their ownership costs. The "leaseback" is an arrangement with another operator, usually a flight school, that generates revenue for the owner when he or she is not using the airplane.

Howell, MI (PRWEB) September 28, 2005

"It's really nothing new," remarked Pat Redmond, of Suburban Aviation, Inc. "However, we have seen more of these arrangements in the last couple of years. Most often, it's a "winÂ for both the owner and the flight school. The owner reduces his cost of flying and receives substantial tax savings. The flight school owner also benefits and can invest in his facilities and staff rather than tying up money in equipment."

Most flight schools today have a mix of owned and leased airplanes on their flight lines. according to Redmond, an active flight school is key to the success of any leaseback. The right aircraft will also affect the revenue produced, with training aircraft like the Cessna 172 usually flying the most.

"It's a business partnership," said Redmond, "and knowing who you're dealing with before you enter the relationship will ensure a good outcome."

For a free publication about aircraft leasing and leasebacks, visit:

Http://www. airplanenoise. com/e-books/Leaseback. pub (http://www. airplanenoise. com/e-books/Leaseback. pub)

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A Good Reason to Take a Second Look at your Current Auto Insurance Coverage

2011-10-03T20:25:00.000-07:00

A Good Reason to Take a Second Look at your Current Auto Insurance Coverage

A survey conducted by http://www. OnlineAutoInsurance. com indicated that a large percentage of consumers have a false sense of security because on a misunderstanding of their auto insurance coverage.

Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) December 12, 2007

A recent survey completed by OnlineAutoInsurance. com, an online extension of a California based auto insurance brokerage, found that an overwhelming majority of consumers are under a false sense of comfort based on a misunderstanding of their current auto insurance coverage.

OnlineAutoInsurance. com interviewed 100 consumers about their understanding of what their current auto insurance policy would cover in case of an at fault automobile accident.

Interview results indicated that 82% of consumers who believed to have "full coverage" auto insurance were under the false impression that in case of an at fault accident, their policy would provide coverage for all medical injuries and vehicle damages sustained by both parties involved in the accident.

In fact, interviewed consumers stating to have full coverage, only had liability bodily injury coverage of $15,000 per person, $30,000 total limit for multiple persons, $5,000 for property damage (vehicle damages, etc) along with comprehensive and collision coverage for their vehicle.

In the event a consumer having the above coverage were to strike and cause damages to another vehicle exceeding $5,000 and medical injuries to passengers in excess of $30,000, there could be a substantial amount of "uncovered" damages leaving the consumer liable and vulnerable to lawsuits.

Although full coverage really doesn't exist, one can increase liability coverage limits and purchase additional available coverage which can help prevent a devastating situation where you would be left liable for uncovered damages to yourself and others in the event of an at-fault accident. Most consumers will be surprised to find additional coverage reasonably affordable.

Log onto OnlineAutoInsurance. com and visit the Learning Center to learn more about coverage and to compare free online auto insurance quotes (http://www. onlineautoinsurance. com) from multiple quality companies all with one simple process. Feel free to quote the many different coverage options available with no obligation to purchase a policy.

Courtesy of http://www. OnlineAutoInsurance. com (http://www. OnlineAutoInsurance. com)

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Kick Start a Travel Writing Career with the World Nomads Ambassador Program - or Just See a Slab of Australia for Free

2011-10-03T17:02:00.000-07:00

Kick Start a Travel Writing Career with the World Nomads Ambassador Program - or Just See a Slab of Australia for Free

Travel all over the countryside, write about it, blog it and podcast it on the World Nomads website - vehicle and technical requirements provided free of charge - and you could be on your way to a career as a travel writer. Or at least a travel tragic!

(PRWEB) December 20, 2006

World Nomads is looking for a minimum of 16 'Adventure Ambassadors (http://journals. worldnomads. com/travel-competitions/post/1677.aspx)' to share in a huge, two-year Aussie road trip. Travellers Auto Barn will provide the Ambassador van (which bears little resemblance to its Indian namesake) and if they make the grade and get selected as an Ambassador, they can drive off into the countryside, exploring the great Aussie continent at will, for up to six weeks.

The selection process will be based on applicants' skills, availability, eagerness - and a monumental appetite for adventure. Chosen Ambassadors will need to be a bit tech savvy and keen to tell the world what they get up to.

For here's the catch: in return for the trip of your dreams, World Nomads will ask Ambassadors (http://journals. worldnomads. com/travel-competitions/post/1677.aspx) to share it along the way through posting regular blogs, podcasts and vidcasts on the World Nomads website.

World Nomads will provide a laptop and iPod and all the back-up needed to deliver, with gizmos, gadgets and guidance from a range of sponsors. Travellers Auto Barn will provide the van; Nokia will provide the latest N93 phone with high resolution photo and video capabilities; Global Gossip will provide internet access for uploading travel stories to the World Nomads website and Lonely Planet will provide enough destination information to ensure you don't get too lost.

Adecco is also on board providing access to great jobs should an Ambassador be in need of a job at the end of their jaunt, and Intrepid Travel will be offering treks to some lucky bloggers.

Successful World Nomads Ambassadors (http://journals. worldnomads. com/travel-competitions/post/1677.aspx) must be prepared to travel to the designated pick-up point to take over the Ambassador van from the previous Nomads and cover the running costs of the van (fuel, oil etc) and living expenses (food, alcohol etc). There are terms and conditions similar to a standard car rental agreement - including being over 21 years of age and having a valid driver's license and a credit card.

Chris Noble, Global Marketing Manager for World Nomads, sees this program as a way to engage travel writers around the world, " We want independent, adventurous travellers who have a keen desire to hone their travel writing skills. They bring the hunger for adventure, World Nomads will keep them travelling safely and submitting some amazing content, all in the comfort of our Ambassador van ". All aspiring travel writers can apply (http://journals. worldnomads. com/travel-competitions/post/1677.aspx) through the World Nomads website.

World Nomads is a leading on-line travel insurance provider, allowing you to buy your policy even after you've left home, extend your policy indefinitely and make claims online while you're still away, from anywhere in the world. Their comprehensive travel insurance policies are competitively priced and policyholders can also take advantage of foreign language learning podcasts, the red24 security alert service, and a personal on-line travel journal. World Nomads also has a charity program, Footprints, which has raised over AUD$120,000 in the last year for sustainable travel projects around the world.

World Nomads partners with some of the best insurers in the world to provide unique and financially secure travel insurance. These include Allianz Australia, Allianz New Zealand, BCI insurance Company and Arch Capital Group.

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Caravaninsurance. org Relaunches Revamped Caravan Insurance Comparison Website

2011-10-03T06:18:00.000-07:00

Caravaninsurance. org Relaunches Revamped Caravan Insurance Comparison Website

UK based insurance portal caravan insurance. org extend their offerings in the touring caravan, static caravan and motorhome insurance markets with the acquisition and re-launch of their new caravan insurance site.

Co. Down, Ireland (PRWEB) December 30, 2009

Customers are able to get an online quote by entering details of their caravan insurance (http://www. caravaninsurance. org) or motorhome insurance requirements into the website. The system will then search for quotes amongst several of the main caravan insurance providers in the UK and return online prices. Caravaninsurance. org will then show details of several suitable policies, enabling customers to assess their best options : both in terms of price, and in terms of securing cover that meets their input requirements.

Alternatively caravaninsurance. com has a dedicated freephone line, where quotes are available ‘in minutes’ over the telephone.

George McGonigal of caravaninsurance. org explained that ‘although these services have been available for car insurance and other types of financial products for some time, there are very few available that searched exclusively for specialist touring caravan insurance (http://www. caravaninsurance. org) and static caravan insurance. Our service broadens choice in that niche and provides an accessible and state-of-the-art system, both for those with access to the internet and for those who would rather call a freephone number and get a quote that way’.

Whichever way customers access their service, caravaninsurance. org will provide an immediate quote and – if customers are happy – can provide immediate cover from the appropriate provider. Carvavaninsurance. org will be re-launching their specialist touring caravan insurance, static caravan insurance and motorhome insurance services in January 2010.

For further details of their services please visit www. caravaninsurance. org
For marketing opportunities, or if you are interested in working with caravaninsurance. org, please contact George McGonigal as above.

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Medeguide Announces Online Marketing Partnership with Admax Plus to Promote Doctors and Treatment Packages Online

2011-10-02T22:17:00.000-07:00

Medeguide Announces Online Marketing Partnership with Admax Plus to Promote Doctors and Treatment Packages Online

Medeguide. com will 'go live' on June 30, 2009 at the Healthcare Travel Congress in Singapore. This is the first site of its kind aimed at providing international doctors and hospitals an online platform to market their products and services.

Bangkok, Thailand (PRWEB) April 30, 2009

Medeguide, a new online doctor search portal (http://www. medeguide. com/) founded by medical tourism pioneer Ruben Toral, has formed a partnership with Admax Plus, a leading social media and search engine marketing firm.

Medeguide is a new web platform that helps patients find doctors and treatment packages online. The site will 'go live' on June 30, 2009 at the Healthcare Travel Congress in Singapore, and will contain profiles of top medical and surgical specialists (http://www. medeguide. com/doctors. php) around the world. This is the first site of its kind aimed at providing international doctors and hospitals an online platform to market their products and services locally and globally.

Medeguide's founder, Ruben Toral, is a recognized leader in the medical tourism industry. Formerly Group Marketing Director for Bumrungrad International hospital in Bangkok, Thailand, Ruben now provides consulting, branding and marketing support to hospitals and insurance companies as CEO of Mednet Asia (http://www. mednetasia. com (http://www. mednetasia. com)). He is also President of the International Medical Travel Association (http://www. intlmta. org (http://www. intlmta. org)).

"Increasingly, patients are using the web as their primary source for healthcare information", explains Ruben Toral. "Patients want trustworthy, relevant information about doctors and treatment packages. Medeguide does that. We give them information that helps them makes better healthcare choices."

According to a 2006 Pew Internet study, 80% of American internet users have searched for healthcare information; 51% are looking for a specific treatment and 29% are looking for a particular doctor or hospital.

On the partnership with Admax Plus, Ruben is emphatic "Admax Plus is a proven leader in search engine and social media marketing. They have executed successful campaigns for Accor, Singapore Tourism Board and other top tier clients. No one I know does web based marketing better than Admax Plus."

Social media marketing is clearly the new frontier in online marketing. The growth of websites like Facebook and Twitter are testimony to the fact that people of all ages are using the web to connect. Wolfgang Jaegel, the founder and Regional Managing Director of Admax Plus, is an evangelist for this new breed of online marketing and clearly sees how consumers, doctors and hospital can benefit from a site like Medeguide.

"When people are looking for a doctor, they usually turn to friends and family for recommendations,' explains Jaegel, a social media marketing expert, "by combining a web platform like Medeguide with social media marketing you are creating a completely new environment for patients, doctors and hospitals to connect. The future of healthcare is clearly online."

About Admax Plus:
ADMAX Plus is a leading search and social media marketing (http://www. admaxplus. com) company, providing a wide range of services and platforms that include press release and article syndication, social media marketing, search-engine optimization, search-engine marketing, web-analytics implementation and consulting, and online-brand monitoring.

Since the launch of the company, ADMAX Plus has grown to a regional presence and serves global brands including: Accor, Asiativ, LG, Nestle, Ford, Mastercard, HSBC, NIKE, Samsung, Singapore Tourism Board and Symantec

About Medeguide:
Medeguide (http://www. medeguide. com (http://www. medeguide. com)) is a consumer portal to "find a doctor" and a web based marketing platform for doctors and hospitals. The company sells digital products to help doctors and hospitals promote their services and products online. The company will launch its consumer portal on June 30, 2009 and already has over 20 leading international hospitals and 500 doctors in 10 countries committed to participate at launch.

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City Club of Portland to Offer Forum on "The Business of Philanthropy"

2011-09-30T09:47:00.000-07:00

City Club of Portland to Offer Forum on "The Business of Philanthropy"

At its weekly Friday Forum on July 7, 2006, City Club of Portland welcomes Greg Chaillé, President, Oregon Community Foundation; Jerry Hudson, Executive Vice President, Collins Foundation; Doug Stamm, Executive Director, Meyer Memorial Trust; and moderator Isaac Regenstreif, Executive Director of PacifiCorp Foundation for a presentation titled “The Business of Philanthropy: New Trends in Stewardship.”

Portland, OR (PRWEB) June 24, 2006

Foundations are seeking more creative ways to have a greater impact while stretching the dollars they have. The philanthropic world is also facing major demographic changes with an increase in human need, a generational transfer of wealth and new trends in youth volunteering. These realities are creating a transformation in how foundations conduct business. These new directions include more collaborations with other foundations and entities, greater activity in the policy arena, and a move to more entrepreneurial giving — a philosophy of investing rather than just contributing.

Three of Oregon’s largest foundations — the Oregon Community Foundation, the Collins Foundation and Meyer Memorial Trust — are at the forefront of many of these new developments, and their directors, Greg Chaillé, Jerry Hudson and Doug Stamm, will share how they’re working to leverage their efforts to bring about a more sustainable impact, using specific cases to illustrate trends in philanthropic funding.

City Club's Friday Forum, which is open to the public, will be held at the Governor Hotel (614 SW 11th Ave.). Doors open at 11:30 a. m.; the program begins at 12:15 p. m. and concludes at 1:15 p. m. Luncheon tickets are $20 ($16 for members of City Club) and must be reserved by 12 noon Thursday, July 6, 2006 online at www. pdxcityclub. org or by calling 503-228-7231, ext. 103. Coffee/tea table tickets ($5) and general seating ($5; free for City Club members) will be available at the door on a first-come, first-served basis.

A NOTE TO MEDIA

Media are encouraged to attend and are invited to sit in general seating. Please sign in at the registration table on the day of the forum. For broadcast media, an audio press patch will be available, and a riser for videotaping can be provided with advance notice. Contact Tim Krause at tim@pdxcityclub. org or 503-228-7231, ext. 102.

ABOUT GREG CHAILLE

Greg Chaillé is president of Oregon Community Foundation, a position he has held since 1987. He guides the development, investment and grant activities of the nation’s 11th largest community foundation. When Greg began work at OCF, its assets were $7 million. Today, the Foundation has assets of $770 million and provides grants and scholarships totaling $42 million per year.

The Foundation’s mission is to improve life in Oregon and promote effective philanthropy. It does this by working with individuals, families and business throughout Oregon to create charitable funds to benefit their communities.

Chaillé has served on several national and local boards for philanthropy. He is currently a board member of Foundations for a Better Oregon, a statewide coalition of Oregon’s five largest foundations. He is also a board member and serves on the Executive Committee for the Oregon Wildlife Heritage Foundation. He is past president of the Oregon Chapter of the American Leadership Forum and past member of the Governor’s Advisory Committee for the Prevention of Child Abuse. He is an advisor to the Oregon Public Broadcasting’s Governance Committee and to The American Leadership Forum.

ABOUT JERRY E. HUDSON

Jerry Hudson has been Executive Vice President of The Collins Foundation since 1997. Prior to that he was President of Willamette University from 1980 to 1997 and President of Hamline University in St. Paul, Minnesota from 1975 to 1980. From 1972 to 1975, Hudson was Provost at Pepperdine University in Malibu, California, where he was also a Professor of History from 1962 to 1975.

Hudson has been director of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities; Chairman of the Educational Insurance Administrators Association; President of the Oregon Independent Colleges Association and on the Executive Committee of the Oregon Independent Colleges Foundation. He continues as Regent at Pepperdine University and Director at PGE Foundation.

His community involvement includes the Oregon China Commission, Salem YMCA, Salem United Way, Goodwill Industries of Oregon, Commercial State Bank and Associated Colleges of the Twin Cities.

Hudson received a bachelor’s degree in history from David Lipscomb College (Nashville), a master’s and Ph. D. in American History from Tulane University (New Orleans).

ABOUT ISAAC REGENSTREIF

Isaac Regenstreif is the executive director of the PacifiCorp Foundation for Learning in Portland Oregon. Prior to taking the position he served as a member of the Foundation board and joined the Foundation staff in 2001 to lead a special $1 million early childhood literacy project. He began his career with PacifiCorp in 1988 as public policy manager and served as a senior policy consultant from 1997 to 2001, focusing on energy industry restructuring.

Regenstreif was raised in Indiana and received a BA in political science from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, in 1972. After a stint with VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) and the Big Brothers program in Helena, Mont., he moved to Oregon to pursue a master’s degree in public affairs. He graduated from the University of Oregon with honors in 1976.

He began his career in Oregon as an assistant to Governor Bob Straub in 1977. He also worked as a committee administrator in the Oregon legislature, a commissioner’s assistant to Portland City Commissioner Mike Lindberg, and a legislative liaison for METRO, a Portland-based regional government. In 1981 he became co-owner and vice president of a local consulting firm and joined Oregon Bank as a vice president in 1984. In 1986 and ’87, Regenstreif lived in Edinburgh, Scotland, where he was a consultant to the Bank of America.

Regenstreif has been active in community and education affairs, currently serving as a volunteer in the Portland Public Schools, vice president of Oregon Water Trust, a trustee on the Oregon Zoo Foundation Board, and as a member of a League of Women Voters Advisory Committee. He is a Senior Fellow of the American Leadership Forum and has served on the City Club Board of Governors, Oregon Holocaust Resource Center Board of Directors, the Self-Enhancement, Inc., Art and Soul Committee, Parry Center for Children Board of Directors, Portland Public Schools Performance Audit Implementation Steering Committee and the Portland Roast Festival Committee. He is also a SMART reading mentor.

ABOUT DOUG STAMM

A native Oregonian, Doug Stamm has been executive director of Meyer Memorial Trust since April 2002. Stamm has leadership, fiscal and administrative responsibilities for the Trust, which has current assets of approximately $600 million and has over its lifetime awarded to organizations in Oregon and Southwest Washington over 5,000 grants, totaling nearly $400 million. While at the Trust, Stamm has been instrumental in developing two major public education initiatives, the Oregon Small Schools Initiative and the Chalkboard Project, along with a Program and Mission Related Investment program through which the Trust actively embraces novel investment opportunities to compliment its grant program and further its mission.

Prior to joining the Trust, Stamm worked in private business, nonprofit management and the law. He initially “toiled” as an attorney in private practice and for the next ten years held several executive positions at NIKE, including global director of public affairs, which included leading the NIKE Foundation. As national director of the Portland-based nonprofit Friends of the Children, he spearheaded expansion of the program to 10 new cities.

Stamm is a graduate of both Stanford University (BS) and Northwestern School of Law (JD).

ABOUT CITY CLUB OF PORTLAND

City Club of Portland is a nonprofit, nonpartisan civic affairs organization that promotes civic engagement and active citizenship to build a stronger community. Through unbiased research and compelling programs, City Club connects citizens with ideas and issues that affect our community. City Club is open to everyone who wants to interact with other citizens and shape the future of our city and state, providing a neutral forum for many diverse voices. For more information about City Club of Portland, visit www. pdxcityclub. org or call 503-228-7231.

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Progressive Group Leases 10,500 Square Feet in Melville, NY

2011-09-24T07:23:00.000-07:00

Progressive Group Leases 10,500 Square Feet in Melville, NY

He Progressive Group of Insurance Companies, the third largest auto insurance group in the country, leased 10,500 square feet office space in the Nikon Building in Melville, NY, in a deal arranged by Long Island’s premier commercial real estate services firm, Sutton & Edwards Inc.,/TCN Worldwide. The insurer plans to consolidate various offices in the space,

Lake Success, NY (PRWEB) June 2, 2006

The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies, the third largest auto insurance group in the country, has leased office space in the Nikon Building in Melville, NY, in a deal arranged by Long Island’s premier commercial real estate services firm, Sutton & Edwards Inc.,/TCN Worldwide.

The Mayfield Heights, Ohio-based insurer will lease 10,500 square feet at the building, 1300 Walt Whitman Rd., Melville, to consolidate various offices.

A Sutton & Edwards team of Senior Executive Director Gus Nuzzolese and Associates Daniel Thompson and Chip Entwistle represented Nikon in lease negotiations. Progressive was represented by John Hoblin and Don Catalano of Corporate Realty Consultants

Founded in 1962, Sutton & Edwards Inc. /TCN Worldwide is Long Island’s largest commercial real estate services firm. Headquartered in Lake Success, NY, the firm employs 64 real estate specialists providing integrated leasing, investment sales, property management and advisory solutions. To find out more about Sutton & Edwards, please call 1-516-328-6500, or visit the firm's web site at www. suttonandedwards. com.

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BMI of Texas Selected to Participate in Lap-Band Total Care™ Out of Towner Network

2011-09-21T04:55:00.000-07:00

BMI of Texas Selected to Participate in Lap-Band Total Care™ Out of Towner Network

Lap-Band and REALIZE adjustable gastric band patients visiting or relocating to San Antonio can access expert aftercare at BMI of Texas.

San Antonio, TX (PRWEB) May 24, 2010

The Bariatric Medical Institute of Texas (“BMI of Texas”), which specializes in a variety of weight loss surgery procedures (http://www. bmioftexas. com/default/your-options) in Texas, today announced its participation in Allergan’s LAP-BAND® Total Care™ Out of Towner Network, which allows bariatric patients who are visiting San Antonio or relocating to San Antonio to access expert aftercare at BMI of Texas.

“Adjustable gastric band (http://www. bmioftexas. com/default/your-options/laparoscopic-adjustable-banding) patients need to have their bands adjusted regularly in order to achieve optimal weight loss,” said Dr. Terive Duperier (http://www. bmioftexas. com/default/our-expert-team/frank), a San Antonio bariatric surgeon and co-founder of BMI of Texas. “We can help band patients who are visiting San Antonio or have moved here from another city. Whether they have a REALIZE band or a LAP-BAND, our highly-trained team can assess their situation and perform the appropriate band fill.”

BMI of Texas is one of the only practices in the nation that performs fluoroscopic assisted band adjustments in the office. Patients interested in the BMI of Texas aftercare program can learn more information on the company’s Website or by contacting its office at (210) 615-8500. According to Allergan, practices which are committed to providing access to expert aftercare for LAP-BAND patients are designated as members of its Out of Towner Network.

BMI of Texas, located in San Antonio's Medical Center area, helps patients achieve their weight loss goals through various surgical procedures including gastric bypass (http://www. bmioftexas. com/default/your-options/laparoscopic-gastric-bypass), adjustable gastric band and sleeve gastrectomy (http://www. bmioftexas. com/default/your-options/sleeve-gastrectomy). For patients who experience some weight regain after surgery, BMI of Texas offers some new endoscopic procedures, such as Stomaphyx (http://www. bmioftexas. com/default/your-options/stomaphyx). Endoscopy is a safe, non-surgical technique where the surgeon inserts a scope through the patient’s mouth, down the esophagus, and into the stomach pouch. With Stomaphyx, the gastroscope is inserted into the patient’s mouth down into an existing gastric pouch and ‘sutures’ are used to make the original gastric pouch smaller.

BMI of Texas assists patients throughout their entire weight loss journey. After attending a free, educational seminar, patients are assigned a patient advocate to help coordinate the extensive paperwork and insurance stipulations necessary for surgical intervention. Post-operatively, the doctors continue to follow their patients to ensure long-term weight loss success. As part of its comprehensive program, BMI of Texas offers an on-site dietitian for nutritional counseling and hosts support groups where post-op patients can discuss a wide variety of issues, such as relationships and dietary concerns. In addition, the practice’s Web site includes a calculator for prospective patients to calculate their BMI at bmioftexas. com/default/bmi-calculator.

Dr. Duperier and his partner, Dr. Michael Seger (http://www. bmioftexas. com/default/our-expert-team/michael), have been performing bariatric surgery in San Antonio for years, and are recognized by peers and patients for their excellent surgical skills and patient care. Visit bmioftexas. com/media-center. html to view the successful results they have helped achieve for several of their weight loss surgery patients. In addition to their bariatric surgery practice, the surgeons perform a full spectrum of advanced laparoscopic procedures, including laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication (anti-reflux surgery), laparoscopic colon surgery, laparoscopic pancreatic surgery, and laparoscopic hernia surgeries.

About BMI of Texas:

Founded in 2008, the Bariatric Medical Institute of Texas is focused on helping patients achieve their long-term weight loss goals. More information on the practice can be found online at bmioftexas. com.

# # #

Clarity Group, Inc. Announces New Specialty-Specific Healthcare Safety Assessments

2011-09-16T18:01:00.000-07:00

Clarity Group, Inc. Announces New Specialty-Specific Healthcare Safety Assessments

Healthcare Clinical Safety Assessments: Specialty Specific.

Chicago, IL (PRWEB) January 13, 2009

Clarity Group, Inc., a leading provider of healthcare risk, quality and patient safety software and consulting services announced today the introduction of new Specialty-Specific Healthcare Safety Assessments. These consultative assessments provide an in-depth review of specialty patient care areas within the healthcare organization to assist providers in their quality, safety and performance improvement efforts.

Specialty-Specific Healthcare Safety Assessments enable healthcare providers to evaluate their compliance with emerging standards of practice, national patient safety goals and accreditation standards. "The Assessments are designed in collaboration with each healthcare client to ensure that the organization's goals are being met, and provide succinct, prioritized and actionable information to help promote healthcare safety across the organization," stated Ellen Flynn, RN, MBA, JD, Vice President of Risk-Quality-Safety Consulting Services for Clarity Group.

Examples of the types of Healthcare Safety Assessments available include:
Surgical Services Safety Assessment
Laboratory Medicine/Pathology Safety Assessment
Anesthesia Services Safety Assessment
Physician Office Practice Safety Assessment

Kris Staertow, Senior Director, Corporate Risk Manager of Unity Health System, Rochester, NY recently completed the Surgical Services Safety Assessment and had the following comments about the process:

"The proactive safety/risk assessment was extremely beneficial to our organization because it was an evidence based systemic review of key processes. It was really great that Clarity Group Inc. did not just give us a list of recommendations, but provided us with a prioritized improvement plan."

To learn more about Clarity Group's Specialty Specific Healthcare Safety Assessments and to obtain a free copy of the Surgical Services Healthcare Safety Assessment Chart Review Template contact Ellen Flynn via the Clarity Website at www. claritygrp. com or at 773-864-8280.

About Clarity Group

Clarity Group, Inc. is a Chicago-based specialist in innovative integrated risk/quality/safety/service systems and consulting products that enable healthcare organizations to execute on their vision for excellence. Core Clarity products include captive insurance company development and operations, risk-quality-safety consulting services and the web-based Healthcare SafetyZone® Portal that engages all staff in collaborative, data driven change to transform the organization into a Healthcare Safety Zone for patients, visitors and staff. Clarity PSO, a Division of Clarity Group, Inc., is a Patient Safety Organization listed by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality under the Patient Safety and Quality Improvement Act of 2005.

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ING Commercial Banking Upgrades its Research Distribution Capabilities to New Service from WORLDFLOW

2011-09-15T01:27:00.000-07:00

ING Commercial Banking Upgrades its Research Distribution Capabilities to New Service from WORLDFLOW

ING Commercial Banking adopts worldflow Research Distribution (wRD) service to distribute its equity and economic research.

(PRWeb UK) April 19, 2010

WORLDFLOW (http://www. worldflow. net), a leading provider of software and consultancy services to the financial services market is pleased to announce that ING has become the first client to sign up to its worldflow Research Distribution (wRD) service which was launched last month. ING Commercial Banking will use wRD’s fully-managed and audited service to distribute its equity and economic research to clients and internal users.

Through its adoption of wRD (http://www. worldflow. net/solutions-delivered/research-distribution/), ING will be able to take full advantage of the latest web 2.0 functionality to offer enhanced usability, search features and robust security to its research clients via an ING-branded portal. The new solution will seamlessly integrate with the existing internal research production system, delivering immediate improvements in speed of content delivery and user-experience, as well as delivering internal efficiency savings and lower costs to the business.

Steve Jarrett, Director of worldflow comments "wRD brings together the best in internet and customer-service technologies and gives research departments a market-leading platform for distributing content to their external and internal clients. We are delighted that ING (http://www. ingcommercialbanking. com) has decided to adopt our new wRD service as a faster, more cost-effective solution to distributing their research."

For more information contact:
Justin Percival on 020 32862152

About worldflow
WORLDFLOW (www. worldflow. net) is a delivery-driven consulting and software company focused solely on the financial sector. Since 2002, the company has successfully managed and implemented over 150 projects for Investment Banks, Hedge Funds and Asset Managers
Including Commerzbank, Standard Chartered, RBS, Citigroup, ING, Aviva Asset Management, Ignis and JPM Chase Manhattan. The team has extensive experience in the Derivatives, Equities, Foreign Exchange and Fixed Income markets across functional areas including sales & trading, risk management, research and analysis, operations and ecommerce.

About ING
ING Group is a global financial services company of Dutch origin with 150 years of experience, providing a wide array of banking, insurance and asset management services in over 50 countries. Our 113,000 employees work daily to satisfy a broad customer base: individuals, families, small businesses, large corporations, institutions and governments. Based on market capitalisation, ING is one of the 20 largest financial institutions worldwide and in the top-10 in Europe.
Http://www. ingcommercialbanking. com/ (http://www. ingcommercialbanking. com/)

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International Insurance Company Relies on WinRAR for 10,000 Users

2011-09-10T20:46:00.000-07:00

International Insurance Company Relies on WinRAR for 10,000 Users

International acting Insurance Company switched to WinRAR for 10,000 users. WinRAR was convincing in a direct comparison to the competition: best compression rates, optimum handling of large quantities of data and multi-format support as well as a convenient licensing model.

Berlin (PRWEB) April 4, 2009

An insurance company with around 170,000 employees in 55 countries worldwide has purchased 10,000 WinRAR licenses for their base in Germany. Until recently, the company was using WinZIP which was no longer able to accommodate the new requirements both from a technical as well as a financial standpoint.

The cause was an internal request for a software package that was capable of crunching vast amounts of data of more than 10 GB and delivering high compression rates. The quality of the zip program had to coincide with a good price-performance ratio.

WinRAR was convincing in a direct comparison to the competition: high compression rates, optimum handling of vast amounts of data and multi-format support.

Following an extensive comparison analysis of different tools - including WinZIP - WinRAR gave a convincing performance with the best compression rates. The results confirm that the RAR format is the right choice for safe compression and storage of large quantities of data. In most cases, it provides a much better compression rate than ZIP, in particular through powerful archiving which views the numerous small, similar files as a single data stream and archives it as such. Fewer redundancies mean a higher compression rate.

Thanks to its compatibility with a number of formats, the archiver combines the advantages of different archiving formats for the respective application and makes the handling of all kinds of archives simple for company employees. In addition to the main format RAR, WinRAR also supports other data formats, including 7Z, ACE, ARJ, JAR, TAR or ZIP.

Another important feature of RAR is its support of split archives in order to store large archives on several different storage media. Added to this is the enhanced security of the RAR archives created because WinRAR integrates recovery records which repair archives even on damaged data carriers. The generated RAR archives can also be protected from subsequent modification.

"Our goal is to establish RAR as the standard compression format on the global market and thereby to make state-of-the-art compression technology available to everyone", states Öncül Kaya, Managing Director of win. rar GmbH. "We are very pleased with the faith that the insurance company listed on EuroStocks has shown in us with their purchase of 10,000 licenses," says Öncül Kaya, Managing Director of win. rar GmbH. "Word of our customer's satisfaction has already spread in the insurance sector. This tells us: WinRAR meets the varied requirements that the sector demands from a compression tool."

In addition to quality, price counts.

Since WinRAR met all quality requirements, the price had to be right. Ultimately, over 10,000 systems had to be equipped. WinRAR scored with its straightforward licensing model: win. rar GmbH has no annual maintenance fees like the ones the competition demands, and they also provide additional licenses at a reduced rate. The insurance company was able to integrate the non-recurring payment as a fixed cost in their budget calculation. There are no follow-up costs.

The bottom line: WinRAR achieves a high compression rate while flexibly splitting up files and providing additional security for stored data. The RAR format is also optimized for large data quantities and data. In emergencies, even damaged RAR archives can be restored by retrieving the recovery records. In addition to quality, the attractive price model makes the case for WinRAR. Following the success of the deployment in Germany, the WinRAR solution is now also being used in other parts of the company; additional licenses are already on order.

About WinRAR
WinRAR is a 32-bit Windows version of the RAR Archiver, the powerful archiver and archive manager. RAR files can usually compress content up to 30 percent more effectively than ZIP files. WinRAR's most important functions include extremely powerful document and multimedia file compression, processing of other archive formats, long filename support, programmable self-extracting archives (SFK), damaged archive repair, authenticity verification, embedded file comments, and archive encryption. The command line version of RAR is available for Linux, DOS, OS/2, FreeBSD and MAC OS X. Pocket RAR, the free WinRAR version for Pocket PCs, WinRAR for U3, and the new WinRAR Unplugged complete the WinRAR product range.

About win. rar GmbH
Win. rar GmbH, has been the official distributor of WinRAR and RARLAB products since February 2002 and handles all support, marketing, and sales related to WinRAR & rarlab. com. The company is registered in Germany and is represented worldwide by local partners in more than 70 countries on six continents. winRAR's declared objective is to provide first-class quality support and to optimize their software to meet the requirements and in accordance with the feedback of their customers. For more information about WinRAR and win. rar GmbH go to http://www. win-rar. com (http://www. win-rar. com).

For more information contact:
Win. rar GmbH
Http://www. win-rar. com (http://www. win-rar. com)

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Free Caregiver Burnout Seminar

2011-09-10T00:38:00.000-07:00

Free Caregiver Burnout Seminar

A free seminar to help those who are challenged with caring for loved ones with Alzheimer's, dementia or other diseases requiring long-term care.

(PRWEB) June 18, 2005

What: A free seminar to help those who are challenged with caring for loved ones with Alzheimer's, dementia or other diseases requiring long-term care.

Our seminar is for family members who are caring for their elderly loved ones. Many of these caregivers feel isolated and alone and do not know where to turn for help with the day-to-day issues involved in caregiving. Our goal is to help family caregivers recognize the signs of burnout and to be proactive in setting goals to cope with it. With community resources, support groups, long-term care alternatives, legal support and financial strategies, families can equip themselves with the necessary tools to provide greater care for their loved ones.

Topics covered include:

Â What is Caregiver Burnout?

Â Avoiding Burnout

Â Local resources for Caregivers

Â Protecting the elderly from identity theft

Â Power of attorneys, living wills, DNRs

Â Avoiding the pitfalls of long term care insurance

Why: Even though there are many community resources available to them, many families fail to avail themselves of those resources for various reasonsÂ caregiver guilt, isolation, lack of financial resources, fear of letting go or fear of the unknown. Caregivers who donÂt get enough support often burnout and begin to encounter emotional, mental, physical and personal problems.

Who: Renee Reeves, a long term care consultant who has worked with Alzheimer's and dementia patients for over 10 years, will be presenting ideas and strategies intended to help caregivers deal with the stresses involved with caring for elderly loved ones.

When: Thursday June 23, 2005 at 7:00pm

Where: The New Tyee Center, 5757 Littlerock Rd SW, Tumwater, WA

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Collins Associates Hires Simon Hudson to Establish New York Office

2011-09-09T17:04:00.000-07:00

Collins Associates Hires Simon Hudson to Establish New York Office

John B. Collins Associates, Inc., one of the worldÂs leading reinsurance intermediaries, today announced that senior Property & Casualty reinsurance broker Simon Hudson has joined the firm.

(PRWEB) December 11, 2003

Minneapolis, MN (PRWEB) December 10, 2003 Â John B. Collins Associates, Inc., one of the worldÂs leading reinsurance intermediaries, today announced that senior Property & Casualty reinsurance broker Simon Hudson has joined the firm.

Mr. Hudson was previously with Willis Re. With 20 years of insurance and reinsurance experience, he has been active in many lines of business, including medical, professional and general liability. Prior to joining Willis he had been an underwriter for CNA Re in the U. S. and London. Mr. Hudson studied Economics at the University of Manchester, England.

ÂIÂm very enthusiastic about the chance to build a New York office for the Collins organization,Â said Mr. Hudson. ÂCollins has a reputation as an outstanding service intermediary, and this is an exciting opportunity to bring new reinsurance clients to the company.Â

ÂWeÂre delighted to have Simon on board to help us continue our growth,Â said Pat Denzer, President and co-CEO of Collins Associates. ÂOur entry into the New York market is a milestone event for us and is something that many of our markets and clients have encouraged. I'm very pleased to make this announcement and am very excited about what it means for Collins.Â

About Collins Associates

John B. Collins Associates is one of the largest reinsurance intermediaries in the world, and consistently ranks among the fastest growing. The privately-held company provides reinsurance and risk transfer assistance along with associated analytical services including catastrophe modeling, dynamic financial analysis and actuarial services. Collins Associates is a leader in the property & casualty, life/accident & health and agriculture/crop reinsurance segments. The company operates ten offices across the U. S., in addition to London and Bermuda. Collins Associates maintains relationships with all major reinsurers. The companyÂs Web site is at www. jbcollins. com. For more information, contact Tom Pick, Director of Corporate Communications, at 952-820-1003 or info@jbcollins. com.

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Christopher Gardner, CEO, Christopher Gardner International Holdings and Inspiration for the Film The Pursuit of Happyness to present as a Guest Speaker at TradeTech West 2008

2011-09-04T11:40:00.000-07:00

Christopher Gardner, CEO, Christopher Gardner International Holdings and Inspiration for the Film The Pursuit of Happyness to present as a Guest Speaker at TradeTech West 2008

It is an ongoing struggle to generate alpha in this down market…but that doesn't mean the chance to profit is over.

San Francisco, CA (PRWEB) June 23, 2008

At TradeTech West 2008 (http://www. wbresearch. com/tradetechwest/), taking place September 15-17, 2008 at the Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco, CA, Christopher Gardner will show you how to find success, even when odds are stacked about you.

Christopher Gardner is the head of his own successful brokerage firm, but just 20 years ago, Gardner was homeless, carried all his possessions on his back and lived-on occasion-in a bathroom at a Bay Area Rapid Transit station in Oakland, California.

A true testament to the perseverance it takes to make it from "rags-to-riches", Gardner tells his story of overcoming obstacles, "breaking cycles", and the motivation it takes to make your own success.

Listen as he recounts his fears of failure, exhaustion of pursuit, and great appreciation to those that helped him. Gardner's storytelling captures his audience completely, and his humor lights up the room.

Head west…To Tradetech West 2008 to find relief from bleak market conditions! As the premier West Coast trading event, TradeTech West offers the perfect opportunity to network, exchange ideas, and benchmark with 80+ buy side traders and over 300+ of your equity peers and partners.

TradeTech West is your best opportunity to find relief from the current down market, achieve your performance goals, and exceed best execution requirements that will turn into greater revenue generation.

Exclusive complimentary passes are available for qualified buy side traders.* Contact Amol Tembe at 646-200-7442 or atembe@wbresearch. com to see if you qualify.

Sell Side Traders:* Register by 7/18 with code 10408CGPR to receive your VIP Ticket, including a $300 discount* off your registration!*

Don't let your competitors get ahead. Take a moment to register for TradeTech West now by calling 1-888-482-6012 or visiting www. tradetechwest. com.

*Please note: Buy side institutions include any and all financial institutions exclusively engaged in managing funds of money on behalf of their client base e. g. a pension or insurance fund. WBR reserves the right to enforce pricing on the basis of company type. Sell side includes those institutions engaged in investment banking and brokerage operations, as well as direct trading services to buy side institutions.

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Eastern and Western Medicine Meet in Medical Offices

2011-09-01T06:26:00.000-07:00

Eastern and Western Medicine Meet in Medical Offices

According to a recent survey by Jackson & Coker, a significant number of healthcare providers are using some form of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to enhance their own health and well-being, or they have introduced certain facets of alternative medicine into their patient care.

Alpharetta, GA (PRWEB) July 23, 2008

As more consumers become aware of medical alternatives to health and healing, physicians and other health professionals face the challenge of deciding what procedures, modalities, and therapies might be incorporated into their practice or recommended for patients to consider through alternative health practitioners. According to a recent survey by Jackson & Coker, a significant number of healthcare providers are using some form of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to enhance their own health and well-being, or they have introduced certain facets of alternative medicine into their patient care.

"Our concern in commissioning this survey was to assess the extent to which health professionals are drawn to non-conventional forms of medical treatment, either for themselves or their patients," mentions Sandra Garrett, president of Jackson & Coker. "As Eastern and Western medical approaches become more blended in the healthcare field, important decisions must be made as to what treatments are acceptable according to customary medical standards of care and also covered by medical insurers."

The survey, entitled "Healthcare Providers' Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine," (http://www. jacksoncoker. com/newsletter/Long_6282008.aspx? sc_cid=1-Press2-JCIR3-V1N64-) was sent during June to thousands of physicians and other health professionals throughout the United States, with nearly 300 individuals responding.

The vast majority of participants (76%) held a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree, versus a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree (DO). Sixty percent were males. The largest age category was 50-59 (33%). Forty-five percent of respondents have been practicing medicine from 15-40 years.

The health practitioners surveyed learned about complementary and alternative medicine through various means: formal medical training (13%), seminars on holistic medicine (21%), and self-teaching or interaction with colleagues (25%). The types of alternative modalities, therapies, and treatments with which health providers were most familiar included: herbal medicine, massage therapy and reflexology, yoga and meditation, chiropractic treatment, biofeedback, and acupuncture. Other approaches with which they were less familiar included: hypnotherapy, aromatherapy, Tai Chi, and Ayurvetic medicine. The last two are common to Eastern medical practice.

The survey queried respondents as to what heath measures they personally hope to achieve in using some form of CAM. The results were as follows:

Stress relief 19.0%
Improve general health 15.6%
Pain management 13.3%
Improve mental alertness 11.4%
Weight reduction / control 9.3%
Reduce hypertension 8.2%
Overcome insomnia 7.8%
Lower cholesterol 5.9%
Control diabetes 3.5%.

A key survey question asked, "To what extent do you use CAM approaches in your own medical practice?" The responses were as follows; 4% frequently, 44% occasionally, and 22% not at all.

Thirty percent of respondents indicated their intent to incorporate more CAM procedures into their medical practice, whereas 28% felt they might be included to do that and 31% replied 'probably not."

The reasons prompting healthcare providers to consider adopting more CAM procedures or techniques included their personal belief in CAM, growing patient requests, additional sources of revenue, and more favorable view by insurers.

On the matter of insurance reimbursement, a slight number (2%) had experienced significant problems with medical insurers in the past, 11% had encountered some difficulties, and 26% had experienced major problems in dealing with insurers.

The survey pointed out, interestingly, that only a small number of doctors (15%) believe that as complementary and alternative medicine becomes more acceptable within the healthcare field, more insurers will provide approved reimbursement. Sixty-two percent felt it was either "not too likely" or "probably unlikely" that insurance coverage will substantially increase in the foreseeable future.

Another key question was asked: "From your perspective, do physicians tend to draw a line between CAM procedures that are acceptable versus non-acceptable to Western-trained clinicians?" A few of their comments are noteworthy:
"I draw the line on anything that isn't proven scientifically. Unacceptable are those treatments that only target the practice's bottom line." "Yes, only those that have stood up to the test of controlled studies are accepted." "No. It seems to me to be driven almost entirely by personal preferences / exposure." "Doctors are not properly trained in the use of alternative medicine and therefore are very reluctant to use them in their practice." "I believe that most physicians are fixed in their mind set about 'scientific medicine' and 'alternative medicine," and it is difficult to change their mind set." "Probably not. From my experience, physicians who discount CAM tend to lump all CAM modalities together regardless of their actual credibility (or lack thereof) and toss out proven methods such as acupuncture regardless of the results." The survey commentary concluded with an interview by a board certified Internal Medicine doctor who incorporates certain aspects of complementary medicine into her medical practice.

Dr. Frenesa Hall, Founder and Chief Medical Officer of Mobile-Medicine. net, sees a trend in more healthcare providers being receptive to integrating certain CAM therapies into their patient care. Her remarks: "I see trends in this regard due to more publicity and public demand. Another reason is being able to incorporate and add cash (unrelated to insurance) revenue into the practice. Also, patients actually get better" when they are offered alternative options to improve their health.

About Jackson & Coker (http://www. jacksoncoker. com/?sc_cid=1-Press2-JCIR3-V1N64-x)

With three decades of experience, Jackson & Coker is a prominent physician-staffing firm headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia. The company places physicians in over 40 medical specialties and advanced practitioners (chiefly CRNA's) in temporary (locum tenens) and permanent placement opportunities.

Jackson & Coker is a member of a "family of companies" known as Jackson Healthcare that provides information technology and human resources solutions to hospitals and healthcare organizations across the nation. For more information on Jackson & Coker, visit the company's website a JacksonCoker. com.

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Duck Creek Technologies Chooses AVIcode’s Application Monitoring to Enhance Customer Troubleshooting Efforts

2011-08-28T15:24:00.000-07:00

Duck Creek Technologies Chooses AVIcode’s Application Monitoring to Enhance Customer Troubleshooting Efforts

Duck Creek Technologies, Inc. has chosen AVIcode’s Intercept Studio application monitoring solution to quickly and effectively troubleshoot web application issues.

Baltimore, MD (PRWEB) August 31, 2010

AVIcode, Inc., the leading provider of real-time, always-on application monitoring solutions, today announced that Duck Creek Technologies, Inc. has chosen the company’s Intercept Studio application monitoring solution to quickly and effectively troubleshoot web application issues. Duck Creek provides superior technology and applications to companies in the Property and Casualty Insurance market.

Duck Creek’s flagship product, the EXAMPLE Platform® software, helps insurance providers easily create web-enabled services such as rating, underwriting, policy administration, and billing systems. The Platform is comprised of multiple components with unique functions, providing each carrier with the ability to create products that are right for their unique business model.

Duck Creek primarily uses AVIcode’s application monitoring solutions in pre-production and testing environments. Because each customer configuration is different, Duck Creek needed a flexible and reliable monitoring solution that can help expedite the QA process and ensure better application availability and reliability prior to deploying into production.

In addition, Duck Creek also uses AVIcode’s cornerstone solution, Intercept Studio, when researching support issues. The Support team needs to quickly identify whether the source of an issue is related to the base solution or specific to a customer’s unique implementation. To help improve and accelerate these issues and to reduce costs, Duck Creek selected AVIcode’s technology. Used in this situation primarily as a support analysis tool, Intercept Studio allows Duck Creek to better troubleshoot issues and come to a resolution in a more expedited manner for their customers.

“We ultimately chose AVIcode’s application monitoring because it was highly configurable and could be easily set up to test our unique toolset,” said Michael Witt, Vice President of Product Development for Duck Creek. “We determined that AVIcode was the right choice because they could provide detailed technical information for our resources that allowed us to use and re-use configurations for testing purposes.”

Intercept Studio provides developers and IT operations professionals with a comprehensive solution for monitoring the health and behavior of. NET applications throughout the application lifecycle. It automatically detects application problems, alerts the appropriate personnel, and diagnoses the root cause of performance degradations, application failures, security and connectivity issues. In a support environment, Intercept Studio enables proactive application monitoring and advanced end-to-end troubleshooting to help ensure that application issues can be identified and remediated as quickly as possible.

“Intercept Studio is highly configurable for a number of systems and provides a quick analysis of code performance and interactions,” said Witt. “Any vendor that has the need to constantly monitor their performance thresholds should definitely talk to AVIcode.”

For more information about AVIcode, please visit http://www. avicode. com (http://www. avicode. com).

About AVIcode
Recommended as a best practice by Microsoft and recognized as "the market leader in the management of. NET-based applications," AVIcode’s solutions are used throughout the application lifecycle, providing a real-time view into application behavior and performance. AVIcode customers benefit from a low-overhead solution that delivers immediate alerting to application problems and complete root cause diagnosis, down to the line of problem code, to speed problem resolution. Deployed on tens of thousands of servers globally, AVIcode enables organizations to get applications to market faster, reduce maintenance and management costs, and ensure maximum availability and reliability. More information: http://www. avicode. com (http://www. avicode. com).

About Duck Creek
Duck Creek Technologies, Inc. is a leading provider of software and services to the insurance industry, providing next-generation policy administration, product configuration and definition, billing, and rating for the Property & Casualty and Healthcare insurance markets. Duck Creek is dedicated to enabling customers to develop insurance products and to sell and service those products in their chosen markets with unprecedented speed to market, flexibility, reach and quality. Founded in 2000, Duck Creek is headquartered in Bolivar, Missouri, and has multiple offices within the United States and its subsidiary, Duck Creek Technologies Europe Ltd, has an office in the UK.

Duck Creek, Duck Creek Technologies, and EXAMPLE Platform are registered trademarks or trademarks of Duck Creek Technologies, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the United States and certain other countries.

For more information, visit http://www. duckcreektech. com (http://www. duckcreektech. com) or call 866-382-5832.

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Medical Liability Monitor's 2010 Rate Survey Indicates Tougher Times May be Ahead for Medical Professional Liability Insurance Market

2011-08-26T08:25:00.000-07:00

Medical Liability Monitor's 2010 Rate Survey Indicates Tougher Times May be Ahead for Medical Professional Liability Insurance Market

Since 1991, Medical Liability Monitor—an independent industry newsletter—has been surveying the leading providers of medical professional liability insurance (MPLI) for its annual rate report. This year’s survey reports rates from more than 40 companies that represent as much as 75 percent of the physician’s malpractice insurance market. It is the most comprehensive report on MPLI premium rates available.

Chicago, IL (PRWEB) October 11, 2010

Rates for physicians’ 2010-2011 liability insurance premiums remained largely unchanged for the majority of doctors, according to Medical Liability Monitor’s nationwide Annual Rate Survey released this week.

At first glance, this year’s Rate Survey depicts another year of flat premiums—with 67 percent of rates holding stable between 2009 and 2010. But a closer look at the responses to the Rate Survey suggests there may be tougher times ahead for the medical professional liability insurance (MPLI) industry before things begin to get better.

“Despite declining—or stagnant—premium rates since 2006, unusually strong underwriting results in recent years have had a very strong, positive effect on the MPLI industry’s balance sheet,” said Michael Matray, Medical Liability Monitor editor. “As Chad Karls—the actuarial/author behind the Executive Summary in this year’s Rate Survey—points out, the precipitous decline in claims frequency that began between 2002 and 2004, which has largely continued through the present, has been at the root of the industry’s currently strong financials. That seems to now be changing with certain data sets showing an upward trend in claims frequency. If claims frequency does spike, and rates remain flat, it could spell a period of difficulty for the industry.”

In this year’s Rate Survey, Medical Liability Monitor asked participating companies for their take on the potential implications of the Patient Protection & Affordability Act healthcare reforms for the MPLI industry. Surprisingly, respondents exhibited little concern.

“Only 31 percent of respondents believe this year’s healthcare reforms will increase claims frequency or severity,” Matray said. “Sixty percent believe it will either have no effect or they simply don’t know how it will affect the industry.”

A new concern reported in the responses to this year’s Rate Survey Questionnaire was the increased use of self-insurance and/or captives as an alternative to the traditional MPLI market. Also, there appears to be concern over the related trend of hospitals purchasing practices and rolling the physicians exposure into their self-insured programs.

Medical Liability Monitor is the only independent publication reporting exclusively on medical professional liability insurance. The monthly newsletter, founded in 1975, has conducted the annual rate survey since 1991. To order the rate survey or to subscribe, go to http://www. mlmonitor. com or call 312-944-7900.

Complete Rate Survey available to the press upon request.

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Jasper Roofing Contractors Announces New Colorado Springs Office

2011-08-26T05:14:00.000-07:00

Jasper Roofing Contractors Announces New Colorado Springs Office

Jasper Roofing Contractors is proud to announce the recent opening of a Colorado Springs office. Jasper looks forward to serving the residents of Colorado Springs and providing the excellent client service they are known for in many other U. S. cities.

Colorado Springs, CO (Vocus) July 2, 2010

Jasper Contractors, Inc. CEO, Brian Wedding, announces the opening of its Colorado Springs material yard at 4127 Sinton Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80907. Jasper Contractors is a nationally recognized roofing contractor that specializes in residential & commercial roof replacement services. In business since 2004, Jasper Contractors prides itself in providing the highest quality roofing materials to clients and exceptional service that has earned Jasper an outstanding reputation in the cities they serve. Jasper’s Denver, CO, office location has been so successful CEO Brian Wedding said “I’m looking forward to expand more in Colorado.”

With the Colorado Springs location, Jasper Contractors can offer homeowners in the Colorado Springs area expert roofing advice, free roof inspections, and affordable roof replacement options. Jasper roofing clients will also have the peace-of-mind that comes when working with a well funded national company. Jasper clients know that they can count on Jasper to be there if there is ever a need for warranty work in the future.

Jasper Contractors specializes in new roof installation for both residential and commercial properties. Jasper’s roof inspection experts have worked with most insurance companies and can help homeowners navigate the insurance claim process.

The staff at all Jasper Roofing locations are dedicated to serving clients roofing replacement needs and dedicated to serving the local community as well. The goal of Jasper Contractors, Inc. is to provide quality roofing replacement services at a fair price. Their roofers are familiar with national, city, and county roofing guidelines. Their roofing crews are well-versed in the various, and sometimes complicated, building and roofing codes of the areas they serve. Their highly-trained, highly-skilled roofers are certified, licensed, bonded, and insured in all states where their service is offered and are experts in Colorado codes.

With additional locations throughout the United States, including Atlanta, Baton Rouge, Chicago, Cincinnati, and Denver, Jasper Contractors is one of the fastest-growing roofing contractors in the country. For additional information about Jasper Contractors, Inc. and their new Colorado Springs location, call (719) 632 0066 or visit their website at http://www. jasperroof. com.

# # #

Post Office® Travel Insurance reveals children's top holiday health hazards

2011-08-23T12:22:00.000-07:00

Post Office® Travel Insurance reveals children's top holiday health hazards

Travel insurance study discovers one in 10 parents have sought professional medical advice for their children while on holiday.

London, UK (PRWeb UK) November 8, 2009

Post Office Travel Insurance (http://www. postoffice. co. uk/portal/po/jump1?catId=63300708&mediaId=19300208) is encouraging travellers to take simple steps to protect their family's health, as new research on travel insurance (http://www. postoffice. co. uk/portal/po/jump1?catId=63300708&mediaId=19300208) claims has revealed that a quarter of parents have dealt with a sick youngster on holiday. For more than 10 per cent, the problem was serious enough to seek professional medical advice.

According to Post Office Travel Insurance claims data relating to more than 1,000 children, the most common cause for illness on holiday is ear infection. Parents claimed an average of £291 for medical expenses on travel insurance policies after children suffering ear infections on holiday.

Children with cuts and scrapes make up the second largest number of claims on Post Office Travel Insurance policies, with an average sum of £258. Other common health claims on Post Office Travel Insurance policies range from treatment for viruses and infections, to accidents such as children being stung by jellyfish. The average cost of a travel insurance claim for medical care for children is £666.

Rachel Croft, Post Office Head of Travel Insurance, said: "Having comprehensive travel insurance is important - parents without travel insurance could face considerable medical bills if their children fall ill on holiday. Our data shows that the average cost of a medical claim is £666, with costs for many common complaints rising above £1,000."

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Lafayette Breast Center Installs New ImageChecker Â® Computer Aided Detection (CAD) System for Breast Cancer Screening

2011-08-22T14:31:00.000-07:00

Lafayette Breast Center Installs New ImageChecker Â® Computer Aided Detection (CAD) System for Breast Cancer Screening

Lafayette Breast Center recently augmented its services with the R2 ImageChecker, a computer aided detection (CAD) system, specifically for mammograms. Computer aided detection helps to overread mammograms to indicate abnormal findings and assist the radiologist.

Lafayette, IN (PRWEB) August 23, 2003 -

Â Lafayette Breast Center recently augmented its services with the R2 ImageChecker, a computer aided detection (CAD) system, specifically for mammograms. CAD does not replace the radiologistÂs interpretation, but serves as a second look at the areas that need to be more closely scrutinized for possible underlying pathology.

The ImageChecker is the first US Food and Drug Administration approved CAD system. For the radiologist, the interpretation of mammograms can be challenging. The manifestations of breast cancer can be subtle and are portrayed on a complex and variable pattern of normal anatomy Â anatomy that may either obscure or simulate disease.

The system assists radiologists in detecting breast cancers by digitalizing and then analyzing mammograms for regions that may indicate abnormal findings. The radiologist first assesses the original mammogram, then checks the computer scanned version to determine which areas need to be reviewed. CAD doesnÂt replace radiologists but it improves their interpretive accuracy, which is subject to the limitations of human perception.

Lafayette Breast Center has implemented using the CAD technology as the standard of care for all screening mammograms. ÂSupplementing screening and diagnostic mammograms with CAD technology can allow us to provide our patients the benefits of early detection and improve the overall management and treatmentÂ commented Radiologist Brenda Jurich, M. D. The new technology is currently reimbursed by most insurance carriers, Medicare and Medicaid.

Lafayette Breast Center was established in 1996 and has a staff of six. Lafayette Breast Center is committed to providing our community with the latest medical technology coupled with the highest quality personal care. We are fortunate to have this additional diagnostic tool available to better serve the patients in this area.

For additional information about Lafayette Breast Center, visit www. unityhc. com or call Janna Greene at 765-446-5350. For further information about Computer Aided Detection, visit www. r2tech. com.

ImageChecker is a registered trademark of R2 Technology, Inc.

FlexCare Medical Staffing Awarded 2011 Top 10 Best Travel Nursing Companies by Highway Hypodermics

2011-08-21T14:04:00.000-07:00

FlexCare Medical Staffing Awarded 2011 Top 10 Best Travel Nursing Companies by Highway Hypodermics

For the first time, FlexCare Medical Staffing (http://www. flexcarestaff. com) has been awarded a Top 10 listing on the Highway Hypodermics 2011 list of best travel nursing companies.

Roseville, CA (PRWEB) January 19, 2011

This award is a strong validation of the values and culture FlexCare has fostered over the years. FlexCare Medical Staffing focuses on travel assignments for Registered Nurses and Allied health professionals who work in acute care facilities and have at least 1.5 – 2 years of current experience.

FlexCare Medical Staffing is a medium sized company who has built their business primarily off of referrals from other travel RNs. Having never advertised, word of mouth has been a proven means for their company to grow. FlexCare caps the amount of RN’s each recruiter can have working for them, allowing the time necessary to develop a strong personal relationship between each nurse and their recruiter. Having worked in the travel nurse industry for over 10 years, the owners of FlexCare created a structure that encourages their recruiters to add a personal touch to each placement and avoid the mentality of just trying to get as many RN’s on contract and passing off issues for other departments to handle.

FlexCare Medical Staffing creates a pay package dependent on what their nurses need which may include reimbursement for things such as travel, licensure, housing, rental car, medical insurance, and certifications. You tell them what you need and they will structure a pay package around your needs.

FlexCare is more than just another travel company for quite a few reasons. Their staff has an average of 8+ years in the industry. FlexCare's account managers have close relationships with their clients and are strong advocates for their well qualified RNs. FlexCare's recruiters are the sole point of contact within the company for its RNs, ensuring a seamless line of communication and less confusion.

FlexCare does not pay off of a gross margin – meaning the higher the rate they have at a hospital– the more money their RN's will make. Their recruiters do not make commission off of how much money their nurses are paid (or more to the point, not paid). They have built the company primarily off of referrals, indicating their approach is well received by those nurses who choose to work with FlexCare Medical Staffing.

To help nurses further understand what the individual travel companies were all about, each company filled out an interview form, in which each company was then spotlighted for a full month on the Highway Hypodermics website. There are three important aspects to this award: the companies’ benefits, the informational interview, and how the traveling nurses evaluate the company. Nurses were polled regarding which benefits they looked for in a traveling company, and then an inquiry was made to each company as to whether or not they provided those benefits.

For more information, you can contact them at:

FlexCare Medical Staffing
990 Reserve
Drive Ste, 250,
Roseville, CA 95678
1-866-564-3589
Info (at) flexcarestaff (dot) com

Or visit them on the web at:

Http://www. flexcarestaff. com

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Cottage Health System to Implement Galvanon's MediKiosk to Ensure a Faster and More Accurate Patient Registration Process

2011-08-20T08:17:00.000-07:00

Cottage Health System to Implement Galvanon's MediKiosk to Ensure a Faster and More Accurate Patient Registration Process

Automated patient identification system will feature fingerprint recognition from NEC Solutions America to prevent medical errors resulting from patient misidentification.

Maitland, FL (PRWEB) September 7, 2005

Galvanon, the patient experience company, today announced that Santa Barbara, Calif.-based Cottage Health System will implement its MediKiosk solution to automate the patient registration process at its facilities. Cottage Health System will use the patient self-service kiosks, which will be equipped with biometric fingerprint imaging capabilities provided by NEC Solutions (America) Inc., to instantly and accurately identify patients during the check-in process.

ÂEnsuring accurate patient identification minimizes the potential for errors and creates a safer healthcare system,Â said Alberto Kywi, chief information officer at Cottage Health System. ÂThis innovative technology delivers a reliable and efficient method for streamlining the patient check-in process and enables our organization to continue providing the highest possible standard of care.Â

Upon arrival at the facility, patients will have the option of providing a thumbprint or swiping a driver's license, credit card or membership card directly on the kiosk to begin checking-in. Patients can then use the kiosks to update demographic and insurance information, sign consent forms and make co-payments. Once checked in, front office staff is notified of the patient's arrival.

ÂWith traditional paper-based registration processes, properly identifying patients is a significant challenge,Â said Greg Sarrail, director of sales and marketing at NEC Solutions America/Healthcare Solutions Division. ÂWhen fingerprint recognition is used in combination with automated applications like Galvanon's MediKiosk, healthcare organizations have the ability to eliminate duplicate patient records, reduce medical errors and enhance patient safety.Â

Galvanon's MediKiosk is part of a comprehensive suite of products that allows hospitals and clinics to provide patient self-service capabilities such as pre-registration via the Web, online BillPay and eClipboardsÂ, Galvanon's wireless patient check-in solution.

ÂAs the amount of paperwork completed during the patient check-in process continues to increase, healthcare organizations need a better, more efficient way to register patients,Â said Raj Toleti, chairman and chief executive officer of Galvanon. ÂBy teaming with NEC, a leading biometrics technology provider, we were able to dramatically improve how Cottage admits patients, resulting in a safer, more effective registration process.Â

About NEC Solutions (America), Inc.

NEC Solutions (America), Inc. is a premier provider of integrated solutions for the Connected Enterprise in North America. As an affiliate of NEC Corporation (NASDAQ: NIPNY) (FTSE: 6701q.1), NEC Solutions America taps into a global resource network to help clients leverage technology to achieve a competitive edge. From corporate performance management and biometric security solutions to digital cinema and in-theatre advertising systems, visual displays and server solutions, the expertise is delivered with the personal attention needed to address individual situations. With headquarters in Rancho Cordova, California, NEC Solutions America serves a wide range of markets, including the health care and public safety, financial services, cinema, retail and manufacturing markets.

Information regarding NEC Solutions America can be found at www. necsam. com.

More information about NEC Solutions America / Healthcare Solutions Division is available at www. necsam. com/healthcare (http://www. necsam. com/healthcare).

About Galvanon, Inc.

Galvanon helps healthcare organizations enhance the patient experience at home, in the hospital, and in the physician's office through innovative solutions such as kiosks, Web self-service applications and technology that streamlines everyday patient interactions and improve patient flow through the healthcare process. For more information, visit www. galvanon. com.

Press Contact:

Cathi Hilpert

770-663-6343, ext. 223

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Art For Progress Announces a Special Artist Membership Offer

2011-08-16T03:11:00.000-07:00

Art For Progress Announces a Special Artist Membership Offer

New York City based 501(c) 3 non profit Art For Progress offers a special discount on its artist membership to address the financial difficulties in the community. The program provides access to affordable health insurance, opportunties for exhibition and performance, artist grants and a host of other benefits.

New York, NY (PRWEB) October 8, 2008

At AFP, we know times are tough, in response to these tough times we are offering our regularly priced ($150) yearly memberships for $99. This is a discount of over 33% off of our yearly fees. We have offered discounts in the past of $20 or $30 for memberships, but this is the very best offer since the inception of our programs in 2004. We are also extending this offer to all of our current (100 members) members for renewals. During this one time offer you can purchase as many years as you like, but you must apply and be accepted before you can become a member. The offer will be available through the month of October.

Once you become an Art For Progress member, you can begin enjoying the numerous benefits of membership including: access to affordable health insurance (starting at $273 monthly) with low deductibles, numerous opportunities for exposure through our events and well - trafficked web site, online marketing tools, opportunities to work in our growing art and humanities education program, and free access to AFP events. We're also working on an exciting, new, cutting edge software that we hope to launch in the near future.

AFP can also use your support to help fund all of our important programs in the community. Let's face it. In these difficult times we need to come together and be supportive of each other. And remember, artists become members of Art For Progress for different reasons. Some artists like the many opportunities for exposure while others want to get involved in teaching art in the NYC public schools. Some artists just want to be supportive of our mission because they believe in what we are doing.

If you have any questions at all about our program please send an e-mail to memberships@artforprogress. org with your questions. If you are ready to join our growing community of visual artists, fashion designers, musicians, film makers and DJS, visit the following link for more information and to apply for membership:
Http://www. artforprogress. org/join. php? t=artist (http://www. artforprogress. org/join. php? t=artist)

We're excited to make this extraordinary offer as we continue to expand and grow our programs for emerging artists across the world. 2009 is going to be an incredible year for Art For Progress and we would like you to be a part of it!

As an added bonus, we are offering FREE subscriptions to Art Calendar Magazine, ($32 value) for everyone who joins or renews through this offer.

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Fidelity Bank & Trust International Ltd. Selects Plexis System

2011-08-13T10:42:00.000-07:00

Fidelity Bank & Trust International Ltd. Selects Plexis System

Cayman Island-based Insurance Company Marks Plexis’ Sixth Caribbean Client.

Ashland, OR (PRWEB) April 13, 2006 –-

Fidelity Bank & Trust International Ltd. has selected Plexis Claims Manager for their claim processing and benefit administration system and Plexis WEBWorks to provide online customer service and reporting tools. Plexis now serves two insurance companies located in the Cayman Islands and a total of six different companies that operate in ten different Caribbean countries.

Fidelity Insurance, a subsidiary of Fidelity Bank & Trust International Ltd., located on Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands, operates in three Caribbean countries and is headquartered in the Bahamas. Prior to the selection of Plexis, Fidelity outsourced their claims processing to another insurance carrier but is now bringing that in-house and will use PCM for their claim and premium operations.

In addition to Plexis Claims Manager, Fidelity will also implement Mitan Technologies’ web portal for online claim submission and adjudication, as well as using Plexis WEBWorks for a customer service web portal that allows members and providers to review plans and check eligibility. Plexis WEBWorks also provides advanced reporting functionality, including claims analysis, disease reports, prescription reports and plan design reports that helps to identify cost-saving opportunities.

“Fidelity’s selection of Plexis Claims Manager and Plexis WEBWorks demonstrates our ability to provide proven solutions to Caribbean-based healthcare organizations,” explained Jorge Yant, President and CEO of Plexis. “Our growing market share in this area reflects the reliability of Plexis software as well as its ability to administer international benefits and deliver solid benefits and a rapid ROI.”

About Plexis Healthcare Systems, Inc.

Plexis Healthcare Systems is a leading payer solution and claims processing technology company based in Ashland, Oregon. Plexis is one of the fastest growing claims processing companies in the healthcare marketplace and have been developing payer solutions since 1996. Plexis Healthcare Systems’ claims processing tools employ the very latest Microsoft technology and are highly rated by independent healthcare consultants. Plexis’ core payer solutions include Plexis LCS for small to medium-size TPAs and self-funded groups; Plexis Claims manager serving mid-size organizations with under 1 million lives; and Plexis Quantum Choice, the fully scalable. NET solution serving large healthcare organizations. For more information, please call toll free (877) 475-3947 or visit www. plexisweb. com.

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How do I obtain a press pass for the Economic Crime Summit?

2011-08-13T00:07:00.000-07:00

How do I obtain a press pass for the Economic Crime Summit?

Instructions on how to obtain a press pass for the conference and information about the conference

(PRWEB) April 19, 2003

The 2003 Economic Crime Summit will offer ample opportunity to gain a more global perspective on crime through its many networking possibilities. More than 50 speakers from national and international corporations, law enforcement, and other enforcement professionals from federal, state, and local agencies, will travel to Washington, D. C., for this event. The conference will provide its attendees with an exhibit hall dedicated to fraud prevention products and services and will include topics and research on identity theft, money laundering, health care fraud, insurance crime, and e-fraud. Find conference program information on-line at http://www. summit. nw3c. org/Programs_Home. htm (http://www. summit. nw3c. org/Programs_Home. htm)

Press passes are given to those contributing writers, freelancers, and analysts who have the required credentials and who will be writing about the Economic Crime Summit event.

Those requesting press pass credentials must make a formal request on business letterhead defining who and what the credentials will be used for. If you are a contributing writer, freelancer, or analyst, please submit your credentials by FAX or e-mail to Ronda Ellcessor at (804) 323-3566 or ronda@nw3c. org. All other requests will be handled on a case-by-case basis.

Standard policy is that only two (2) press passes are distributed to each media outlet unless special arrangements are made with NW3CÂs Communications Manager.

We request that all post-event coverage and verification be arranged with NW3CÂs Communications staff.

The American College Launches New Monthly Online Poll in Connections Newsletter

2011-08-12T04:26:00.000-07:00

The American College Launches New Monthly Online Poll in Connections Newsletter

The American College, the nation's premiere educator of financial services professionals, announced today the results from its first monthly newsletter poll. An interactive reader response poll question is now a regular monthly feature in Connections, an e-publication distributed by The College to over 100,000 members of the financial services community, including students, alumni and friends of the institution.

Bryn Mawr, PA (PRWEB) September 15, 2008

This month's question gauged the confidence of financial professionals in the stock market by asking, "Do you think the Dow will reclaim 14,000 by the end of the year?" With 635 responses, a decisive 80 percent said "no," with 20 percent responding "yes."

"These monthly polls help members of the financial services community better understand the views of their peers on issues of importance that affect their business," said Larry Barton, Ph. D., President and Chief Executive Officer of The American College. "Our students and graduates represent some the most successful and knowledgeable professionals in the industry. Their opinions on news, events and trends will be of interest to both their peers and the public."

The poll serves as a snapshot of the opinions held by Connections readers and will help stimulate thought-provoking discussions about financial services topics, helping to enrich The College's outstanding educational offerings. While not vetted for statistical significance, the results of this month's poll are consistent with other investor confidence research.

According to a survey conducted by the Center for Audit Quality in July 2008, investors are adopting an increasingly gloomy stance toward U. S. markets, despite some improved consumer confidence overall. Seventy percent of investors surveyed expressed confidence in U. S. capital markets -- down from 84 percent a year ago. Twenty-three percent of the individuals surveyed reported that they are investing less.

A recent Reuters/University of Michigan survey also reported an erosion in investor confidence. According to their research, consumers felt there was only a 40.6 percent chance their stock holdings would rise in the coming year. This was the lowest number since the question was first asked in 2002. Pessimism was consistent across all income levels and investor ages.

Individuals interested in participating in future polls and receiving news from The American College are encouraged to register online and become a Connections subscriber. A link to the registration page and archived editions of previous issues of Connections are available at TheAmericanCollege. edu/enewsletter

The American College is dedicated to leadership in innovative training and development that helps financial services companies and their employees succeed. As a non-profit educational institution holding the highest level of academic accreditation, The College has served as a valued business partner to banks, brokerage firms, insurance companies and others for over 80 years. The American College's faculty represents some of the financial services industry's foremost thought leaders. For more information, visit TheAmericanCollege. edu

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Building Industry Experts Agree In-house Resources Hold Prices Steady

2011-08-08T23:40:00.000-07:00

Building Industry Experts Agree In-house Resources Hold Prices Steady

All the resources in one place help keep this new homebuilder strong in the new construction home building Industry. United-Bilt Homes has been a leader in home building in Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Missouri and Oklahoma for almost 50 years. Owning their own lumberyard and in-house services sets them apart from the average residential homebuilders and allows them to pass their savings onto the consumer.

Tampa, FL (PRWEB) July 26, 2006

Construction industry experts say residential construction costs have been at a record level for the past 7 years. Long established builders, though, have an edge in the market place.

According to Allisha Watkins, Marketing and Advertising Coordinator for United-Bilt Homes, "We have seen material costs rise each year. At United-Bilt Homes, we are able to keep those costs in check United-Bilt Homebuilders through our vertical integration and ability to buy materials in bulk directly from supplier warehouses."

Owning their own lumberyard and in-house services sets them apart from the average residential homebuilders and allows them to pass their savings onto the consumer.

United Bilt Homes has been a leader in the home building industry since 1958, United-Bilt Homebuilders specializing in on-your-land construction of new homes. They own and operate their own lumberyard, which supplies building projects, including engineered trusses custom designed for every home. Additionally, they are known for being able to offer all the services needed to build a new home from the ground up. These services include design, financing, construction and even insurance.

"Costs for building material have increased much faster than overall inflation in recent years," said Michael Carliner, economist with The National Association of Home Builders. "The devastation of the 2005 hurricanes created new pressures on materials, putting residential construction costs at record levels."

“The volume of construction activity, cost pressure on materials associated with global demand and the availability of skilled labor are the primary elements driving the cost escalation in the domestic construction market,” according to Karl F. Almstead, the Turner vice president responsible for the Cost Indexing. He continues, “Concerns over energy costs remain in the background, along with questions of the impact and timing of rebuilding following Hurricane Katrina.”

Likewise, industry experts agree consumers who are looking to build a new home have an advantage when they work with builders that have their own in-house resources. Watkins summed it up, "We are glad to be a part of the solution that allows consumers to build their dream home, despite rising costs. Our motto at United-Bilt Homes is that we are 'more than a builder.' We prove this to our customers on each new home we build as we use our buying power and vertical integration to pass along savings to our customers," For more information, contact United-Bilt Homes (800) 585-5759 or visit www. ubh. com.

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Vive la France! Confused. com Advises Eurotrippers to Brush Up on French Motoring Law Before Crossing the Channel

2011-08-03T14:34:00.000-07:00

Vive la France! Confused. com Advises Eurotrippers to Brush Up on French Motoring Law Before Crossing the Channel

With ferry travel going through a renaissance, holidaymakers may consider packing up their car and taking it to France.

Cardiff, UK (PRWEB) March 15, 2009

With the Easter holidays approaching, many Brits are still considering heading off on a break, despite the recession*. Will Thomas, head of car insurance (http://www. confused. com/) at Confused. com, reminds travellers that familiarising themselves with the different rules and regulations that are in place across the Channel, will enable them to stay on the right side of the law - even if they are not on the right side of the road:

Speeding and drink-driving: in recent years, more than 1,000 hidden speed cameras have been installed and police have stepped up random breath tests. The legal alcohol limit is 50mg in every 100ml of blood, compared to 80mg in the UK, and if drivers are found to be over the limit, they face either having their licences confiscated, or time in prison. Being caught speeding could result in a heavy on-the-spot fine.

Changing speed limits: one of the most common ways to fall foul of the law occurs when passing through a village on a fast country road; here, the speed limit can drop from 90kmh to 50kmh with only the sign showing the name of the village as warning.

Visibility accessories: with effect from July 1 2008, it became illegal not to carry a high-visibility vest as well as a warning triangle. The jacket needs to be worn by the driver when they get out of the car in the event of an accident or breakdown, and the triangle needs to be placed at least 30 metres from the vehicle. A failure to comply with these rules could result in an on the spot fine of between €90 and €135.

Inform insurance providers of foreign travel: it is important for international drivers to check their insurance to make sure they know exactly what assistance, if any, they will receive in the event of an accident abroad. Informing insurance providers of any planned trips will lead to customers getting the best guidelines on what to do if the worst happens.

Be in possession of a green card: having a green card; a motor insurance certificate universally accepted throughout a network of countries, is no longer a legal requirement for driving within the EU, but could be useful in proving cover. Drivers can request one from their insurance provider but must be aware that it is not insurance itself. The green card merely indicates that you have the minimum level of cover required to drive on European roads. Confused. com shows the green card details with all car insurance quotes (http://www. confused. com/), allowing customers to make an informed decision on the right cover for them. Most insurance providers can upgrade drivers to the same level of cover that they have in the UK, for an additional fee.

Consider international breakdown cover: while UK insurance is still valid within the EU in terms of fulfilling legal requirements to be on the road, international breakdown cover is something worth considering. Even if drivers have chosen to upgrade their insurance cover, in the event of cars breaking down, drivers could benefit from the roadside assistance, support from the helpline, and potentially have emergency repairs dealt with on the spot. The levels of cover will vary, so, once again, it will pay to shop around.
According to ABTA Holiday trends report 2009, 47% of British holidaymakers will not change their travel plans because of the recession.

For further information please contact:
Press office, Confused. com. 02920 434 398.
Joanna Harte/ Gug Kyriacou, Polhill Communications. 020 7655 0550.

Notes to editors
About Confused. com:
Confused. com is one of the UK's biggest and most popular price comparison services. Launched in 2002, it generates over one million quotes per month. It has expanded its range of comparison products over the last couple of years to include home insurance, travel insurance (http://www. confused. com/travel-insurance), pet insurance, van insurance, motorbike insurance, breakdown cover and energy, as well as financial services products including credit cards, loans, mortgages and life insurance.

Confused. com has a panel of 83 motor insurers, its typical customer saves up £206.16* on their annual car insurance policy.

Confused. com is not a supplier, insurance company or broker. It provides a free, objective and unbiased comparison service. By using cutting-edge technology, it has developed a series of intelligent web-based solutions that evaluate a number of risk factors to help customers with their decision-making, subsequently finding them great deals on a wide-range of insurance products, financial services, utilities and more. Confused. com's service is based on the most up-to-date information provided by UK suppliers and industry regulators.

Confused. com is owned by the Admiral Group plc. Admiral listed on the London Stock Exchange in September 2004. Confused. com is regulated by the FSA.

*Based on the average customer savings made in 2008

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Tanya M. Pavlik Forms New Firm A-lign™ -- Breathing Energy and Effectiveness in the Compliance Auditing Industry

2011-08-01T04:30:00.000-07:00

Tanya M. Pavlik Forms New Firm A-lign™ -- Breathing Energy and Effectiveness in the Compliance Auditing Industry

Tanya M. Pavlik is proud to announce the formation of CPA firm A-lign™. In spite of the current economic climate, Pavlik is starting a new firm and capitalizing on the need for high-level experienced audit professionals that can boast a high-level of efficiency and accuracy.

Tampa, FL (PRWEB) October 30, 2009

A-lign™ CPA is a top line CPA firm specializing in providing auditing services and business guidance to companies with regulatory or customer compliance needs, such as:
Statement on Auditing Standard (SAS) 70 Audit Services WebTrust/SysTrust Services Payment Card Industry (PCI) Readiness Assessments International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 27002 Benchmark Services Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA) Assessments Internal Audit and Sarbanes Oxley Compliance Healthcare Information Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Tanya Pavlik stated, "while so many clients are frustrated by the poor performance of traditional accounting firms in the compliance area, we know that we are able to provide the highest level of efficiency and expertise." A-lign's executive team has provided services to companies in a multitude of industries, such as Application Service Providers, Banking and Financial Services, Communications, Data Center Providers, Energy and Utilities, Government, Insurance, Managed Services and Technology, Non-Profit, Professional Services and SaaS.

About Tanya Pavlik:Tanya boasts a successful career as Chief Financial Officer of a nationwide non-profit organization. During her tenure, Tanya successfully led the organization's efforts in numerous process improvement and compliance endeavors. Tanya's prior experience with Arthur Andersen as an auditor with the Business Assurance and Advisory Services team led to the successful completion of numerous financial audits, for major public and private organizations. Tanya is a certified public accountant and a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Tanya also serves as a Board member of the University of South Florida Accounting Circle.

About A-lign™: A-lign's executive team has extensive experience in the accounting and auditing field and has held key positions with Big 4 accounting firms. A-lign's team holds numerous certifications including Certified Public Accountant, Certified Information Systems Auditor and Certified Internal Auditor.

Visit us at www. aligncpa. com

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Meridian Management Announces New Tuition Refund Insurance Product

2011-07-29T03:05:00.000-07:00

Meridian Management Announces New Tuition Refund Insurance Product

TuitionProtect, powered by Meridian Management Group, LLC, a leading developer of specialty health insurance related products and services, in partnership with the Education Security Division of the Expense Management Association, is pleased to announce a unique tuition refund insurance product for students who are enrolled in a college, university or trade school.

Oradell, NJ (PRWEB) April 24, 2009

With the high cost of tuition and the uncertainty in today's economic markets, parents and students have more financial concerns than ever. TuitionProtect, powered by Meridian Management Group, LLC, a leading developer of specialty health insurance related products and services, in partnership with the Education Security Division of the Expense Management Association, is pleased to announce a unique tuition refund insurance product for students who are enrolled in a college, university or trade school. TuitionProtect has been designed to provide tuition insurance benefits to college students in the event the student has to withdraw from school as a result of an accident or illness. Students who enroll in the Association will have the ability to select from $5,000 to $25,000 of tuition protection coverage per term of classes. Also included in the plan coverage is $10,000 of Accidental Death Insurance.

"As a member of the ESD/EMA the student will receive the Tuition Protect Plan without the school having to be the plan sponsor or policyholder," says Kevin Leys, President of Meridian. "The member can also select the appropriate benefit level based on how much tuition insurance protection they need. Most other tuition refund plans require the student to be enrolled at a participating school, and purchase an amount based on a full year of tuition in advance. The ESD/EMA membership is payable in affordable monthly payments for as long as desired."

The benefit paid will be the "unreimbursed portion of tuition" which means up to 100% of the paid tuition, room and board and other eligible fees for the term of classes - including tuition paid through loans, grants or scholarships-less any refund or credit due the covered student from the education institution. (The benefit does not include off-campus housing, fraternity or sorority fees or other non-school sponsored fees.)

Association members also receive many valuable benefits and services relating to their education experience with the goal being to promote the health and financial wellness of the college student. Featured membership services provided to all association members include: Emergency Travel Assistance Services, ID Theft Resolution Services, Emergency Roadside Assistance Services and an interactive wellness website resource.

For additional information, visit the TuitionProtect website at www. tuitionprotect. com.

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Armchair Millionaire Community Bulletin: Shopping for a Mortgage - Don't Borrow Trouble

2011-07-28T11:32:00.000-07:00

Armchair Millionaire Community Bulletin: Shopping for a Mortgage - Don't Borrow Trouble

Don't gamble with your home. If real estate prices go up, great. But don't bet the house on it by getting an outsize mortgage that you can ill afford.

New York, NY (PRWEB) March 15, 2005

There's been a sharp increase in home prices nationwide over the past few years. According to government statistics, house prices rose 11.2 percent in 2004, the fastest clip in 25 years. In some hot markets such as New York and Boston, values have increased even more.

With so many homeowners seemingly making easy money just by making their monthly mortgage payments, it's easy to get caught up in the excitement. A dose of reality from the Armchair Millionaire community might bring you back down to earth:

"I do believe real estate values will start to go down slightly, especially as interest rates starts to creep up. I don't think the values will fall sharply. But for people who put very little to no money down who need to sell soon may find it difficult get break even." --Mattchiavo

"I believe that there will be a burst in the bubble of real estate prices, but not a huge one. I think people are buying up property and houses at higher prices than they should, thinking it's a good investment. Those who invest in real estate wisely will not lose money, but they may not gain what they thought they were going to." --Ben

"Real estate values all depend on where you live. I have been trying to sell a home in rural area since May 2004, and have yet to get an offer that will pay off just what I owe on the house. So I would say real estate is a terrible investment." --Vickie

Managing your mortgage wisely is one of the most important financial skills you should have. My guide provides the basics of what you need to know.

The Armchair Millionaire's Guide to Smart Mortgage Borrowing

Be realistic about what you can afford. If you're paying $1,000 for your rent or mortgage now--and just making ends meet--don't kid yourself about suddenly being able to make $1,500 payments. Your home will be on the line, so if a new mortgage means higher payments make absolutely certain that you're comfortable with that increased cost.

Get your mortgage before you go house hunting. Get pre-approved (not just pre-qualified) for your mortgage before you even start browsing the real estate ads. You'll know exactly what you can afford, and won't be tempted to push the financing envelop just because you fell in love with a house that beyond your means.

Watch your debt/income ratio. As a general rule of thumb, your total monthly debt obligations--mortgage payments, car loans, credit card payments and the like--should be no more than 36 percent of your gross monthly income. Some lenders may let you exceed this ratio, but that doesn't always mean that it's a good idea to do so.

Be cautious with adjustable-rate mortgages. ARMs are attractive because they offer a lower interest rate than fixed-rate mortgages. The catch is that their rates shift along with prevailing interest rates. This means that you can't assume that those low rates--and corresponding lower monthly payments--will last forever. To be on the safe side, only get an ARM if you know you'll be able to pay the maximum payment to which it might rise.

Be even more cautious with interest-only mortgages. These loans require you to pay only the interest on your loan for a fixed period, typically five years. People often use them to buy homes that they otherwise could not afford, and they have two distinct disadvantages. First, you build no equity in your home over the interest-only period. Second, once that period is up, your monthly payments jump considerably to cover both interest and principal. This may not be a problem if you're sure you'll sell the home before that interest-only period has elapsed, but otherwise it could make your payments suddenly unaffordable.

The Bottom Line: Don't gamble with your home. If real estate prices go up, great. But don't bet the house on it by getting an outsize mortgage that you can ill afford.

The Armchair Millionaire Weekly Survey: Do you think you've got the right insurance for your house or apartment? Log on to www. armchairmillionaire. com and let us know.

Lewis Schiff founded the Armchair Millionaire Web site in 1997. His first book, The Armchair Millionaire, was published in 2001. Schiff's newest report, "How to Know When You Are Rich," is now available at www. armchairmillionaire. com.

Contact Information:

Lewis Schiff

Armchair Millionaire

877-833-2823

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

# # #

Correct Travel Medical Insurance a necessity for travel to specific countries

2011-07-28T04:25:00.000-07:00

Correct Travel Medical Insurance a necessity for travel to specific countries.

How necessary it is to be well informed about having the correct travel medical insurance for the country of destination.

(PRWEB) March 12, 2004

Insurance, though necessary, is not always the most favourite of necessities, especially insurance that is required when engaging in International travel.

What is perhaps not widely known, though, is that it is extremely important to ensure that the correct travel medical insurance is taken out depending on the destination, as each destination has a very different set of circumstances.

There is a vast difference between traveling to Europe and Africa and it stands to reason that an insurance providing medical emergencies in Europe would need to be quite different from that for travel to Africa.

Consequently, a unique travel medical insurance was designed for travel to Southern Africa.

Tourmed Medical Travel Insurance, launched in January 2003, is that insurance. It has sufficient cover of R1 million for the region and boasts competitive premiums, while being in the position to deliver top notch services.

It is underwritten by AIG and the emergency services are provided by International SOS. The key to this very relevant product is that in the event of any medical emergency that requires hospitalisation, there are no cash deposits or upfront payments required.

This feature makes all the difference when one requires immediate hospitalisation, especially when is in unfamiliar surroundings.

Tourmed is website based for ease of use and access to the international traveller. One is able to purchase a policy instantly, live online in a secure enviroment prior to embarking on that dreamed about adventure, whether it be a Self Drive around Cape Town or a Safari through Kenya.

Tourmed's website is available at

Www. sa-tourmed. com

Remnants of the Mafia in Galveston Texas

2011-07-27T03:06:00.000-07:00

Remnants of the Mafia in Galveston Texas

The food isnÂt the main attraction at the Petronella Brothers Italian restaurant in Galveston, Texas. You go for the Sicilian ambience, the white linen tablecloths and The Godfather atmosphere.

(PRWEB) August 3, 2004

CRIME SECTION

Remnants of the Mafia in Galveston Texas

ÂWes Newman, a former Galveston County Deputy Sheriff, whose mafia friends included Joe Bonanno and the Maceo Brothers, Sam and Vincent, is brought to life in his daughterÂs new book, ÂNo Greater Deception, A True Texas Story.Â The inside story of mobsters, gambling, prostitution and bootlegging in Galveston.

The food isnÂt the main attraction at the Petronella Brothers Italian restaurant in Galveston, Texas. You go for the Sicilian ambience, the white linen tablecloths and The Godfather atmosphere. Of course you must have made reservations in advance to get past the matreÂd at the front door. The brick and tile interior set it off as a well-protected fortress from the world outside. Even so, visitors will likely sit with their backs to the wall to get a good view of the new arrivals. The walls lack snapshots of the ownerÂs uncles, the Maceo brothers. But, thoughts of mobsters, gamblers, bootleggers and prostitutes readily come to mind.

At a round table sit five men in black suits discussing something rather serious over a plate of spaghetti. Two other men, probably drivers or bodyguards, sit at a table closer to the front door. They stop talking briefly as strangers enter the restaurant and are seated across the room. Murderous bloody thoughts of Tony Soprano and his gang on The Sopranos come to mind. ItÂs just another afternoon at the Petronella Brothers where everyone is treated like family.

Today, there are four people dining in private at a round table in the corner Â a Galveston County Deputy Sheriff, one of Sam SalvatoÂs daughters, a woman from League City, Sydney Newman Dotson, the author of ÂNo Greater Deception.Â Her father, Wes Newman, led a secret life in Galveston County that many would describe as a double life. His job was to keep the peace while serving as a Texas City Police Officer or Galveston County Deputy Sheriff. But, with close friends like Joe Bonanno and the Maceo brothers, some may think he was more than their bodyguard. Perhaps he was a Âmade man.Â Over lunch, Dotson tells her companions about her book and what she knows about her father. But, itÂs what she ÂdoesnÂt knowÂ about him that keeps her up at night.

What did he do with the will that he made at the ranch in East Texas? Did he give it to his sister-in-law Sally? She was there. Or, did he lock it safely in a safe deposit box that his second wife, Betty, found and removed? Where exactly did he hide his mineral rights and assets he planned to leave his six children? And, do some of WesÂ gangster friends hold some of the answers to the authorÂs questions? Who were the elderly men dressed in black suits that attended her fatherÂs funeral? Was the unknown lady sitting in the back of the courtroom sent there a purpose Dotson may learn about at a later date?

DotsonÂs father owned several businesses and properties in the county. She believes them all to be legitimate businesses, but would not be surprised to learn there were some illegitimate activities going on as well. Extortion, loan sharking, illegal gambling, narcotics and murder were rampant in the county during the Maceo years. The tentacles of their vast criminal empire stretched up and down the Galveston Bay. Their organized crime family business mirrored that of the Capone, Giancana, Gambino, Genovese and Gotti families. Attorneys, judges and law enforcement officers were often paid off or bribed. And, women played a major role in their success or failure.

The women also led rather secretive lives. Of course being told to Âshut upÂ had a lot to do with it. Like Josephine Massino and Joanne Vitale, Betty and Sally Newman keep their mouths shut about their husbandsÂ business. Joseph ÂJoeyÂ Massino and Tony Soprano would be proud of them. From poverty to power, Betty and Sally ÂalmostÂ got away with their crimes. In "No Greater Deception, A True Texas Story,Â Dotson's stepmother, Betty, forges wills of several family members and is implicated in their mysterious deaths. Sally, DotsonÂs aunt, is one of BettyÂs accomplices who has many accomplished many forgeries of her own. Dotson exposed their tangled web of forgeries, secrets and lies in her debut book, ÂNo Greater Deception, A True Texas Story.Â And, this #1 best-selling true crime biography is just the beginning. Dotson plans to write two more books about her family to complete the trilogy on identity theft.

Dotson, an IBM Corporate Spy turned CSI Identity Theft Detective, has been seen on The NBC Today Show and PBS in Houston. She's currently speaking on television and radio station Talk Shows across the country about identity theft of wills, insurance policies, pension plans, notary seals and checking accounts. Detectives, profilers, the FBI and handwriting experts are using her book as a textbook case study on identity theft. They are particularly interested in learning more about the criminal mind of a Black Widow forger.

Like many who have become familiar with her true story, DotsonÂs lunch partners want to help answer some of the questions posed in the book. They also want to help spread the word about identity theft in the community. Massive reform is needed in our Legislative and Justice Systems to prevent others from becoming victims of identity theft. This luncheon ends on a positive note.

ÂNo Greater Deception, A True Texas StoryÂ is available on 100 websites today including Amazon. com and Barnes and Noble. com.

For author bio, interviews and more information, go to www. NoGreaterDeception. com

Contact: Sydney Dotson Productions, 214-358-3080

SureCircle Announces Automated Service for Employer Self-Funded Dental Plan Administration

2011-07-23T08:31:00.000-07:00

SureCircle Announces Automated Service for Employer Self-Funded Dental Plan Administration

SureCircle announces the release of SureCircle Dental Self-Fund Online Manager v.3.0. The web-based service is the first to replace manual processes with a fully automated solution for employer self-funded benefits administration.

San Mateo, CA (PRWEB) September 27, 2006

SureCircle announces the release of SureCircle Dental Self-Fund Online Manager v.3.0. This new service combines traditional employer self-funded dental plan administration services (http://www. surecircle. com) with previously unavailable advanced online benefit management tools.

Although self-funding of dental plans (http://www. surecircle. com/er/about. php) is common, most third party administrators (TPA) of these self-insured plans utilize largely manual processes to accept, adjudicate, and pay claims. SureCircle Dental Self-Fund Online Manager v.3.0 is an online application that supports an automated process, including electronic claim submission, auto-adjudication with fraud and error detection technology, and electronic funds transfer.

In addition, Dental Self-Fund v.3.0 features a secure online benefit management portal for employers, members and providers. The employer portal allows benefit managers to get a customized dental plan cost estimate, electronically enroll members or invite them to self-enroll, view real-time claims status, fund the employer account as needed, and generate plan reports instantly.

Online benefit management (http://www. surecircle. com) options available to members include self-enrollment and dependent management, utilization history monitoring with available benefit balance calculation and real-time claim viewing. In addition, providers can verify patient eligibility, view plan details, submit claims electronically, check claims status in real-time, and receive payments through electronic funds transfer.

“It’s a very exciting service for employers who are interested in providing a higher quality dental benefit, while actually reducing their costs and administrative tasks,” explained Joseph Shatara, Chief Operating Officer of SureCircle.

The SureCircle Dental Self-Fund Online Manager is based on the ADA’s Direct Reimbursement (http://www. surecircle. com/er/about. php) model and follows a dollar-based system. One main difference is that rather than have patients pay upfront for dental services and get reimbursed by employers, SureCircle gives providers the ability to file the claim on behalf of patients as they would with a traditional insurance carrier. This Direct Assignment approach is an added convenience for members.

To learn more about the advantages of self-funding, and to get an online cost estimate, visit www. surecircle. com.

About SureCircle

SureCircle is a leading automated administrator of employer self-funded dental benefits (http://www. surecircle. com). Offering a comprehensive solution, SureCircle is dedicated to providing the best value dental plans through superior benefit quality, simple, intuitive plan management, and lower benefit costs. Our commitment is to empower organizations with the ability to increase the overall value of their dental benefit, rather than simply shift costs back to their employees. We accomplish this through advanced technology making dental self-funding not only a viable alternative to conventional insurance, but a smart choice. SureCircle is a DBA of DDRnet, Inc.

Contact:

Rana Mukaled

SureCircle

(650) 573-1200 ext. 104

This press release was distributed through eMediawire by Human Resources Marketer (HR Marketer: www. HRmarketer. com) on behalf of the company listed above.

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Newly Discovered Texas Poet Creates Sensation Across United States

2011-07-20T03:41:00.000-07:00

Newly Discovered Texas Poet Creates Sensation Across United States

Two newly published poetry books by McKinney, Texas poet, John J. Rigo creates sensation across Texas and United States. The buzz is on in literary circles of the work of the newly discovered Texas poet, a self employed insurance agency owner in McKinney, Texas.

McKinney, TX (PRWEB) December 3, 2005

The buzz is increasing in literary circles across the United States of the newly discovered Texas poet, John J. Rigo in McKinney, Texas. With the release as of the two newly published poetry books by the Lighting Publishing Company, the word is spreading, "There is a new poet in town, and his work is worth your time in reading."

Leading the "self-publishing" approach by many successful authors in the United States, the Lulu marketing program has brought forth another poet of great distinction in the United States. Mr. Rigo a senior co-owner of an insurance casuality agency in McKinney, Texas has been writing poetry as a hobby for about twenty years.

With a desire to increase his hobby writing skills he decided to attend writing and english classes in his local community college. Upon reviewing his poetry work, Mr. Rigo's professors insisted that he consider publishing his poetry work. With the assistance of the Lulu marketing program through the Lighting Publishing Company, Mr. Rigo published two books in his "Amidst series," titled, "Roses Amidst Thorns" and "Rainbows Amidst Storms."

The Rigo family is well known in the McKinney, Texas area for their charity work in the Collin County area of Texas. This county is considered the fastest growing county in the United States at present. Last year, John and his wife Linda oversaw the remodeling of three major rooms of the New Samaritan Inn of McKinney, Texas, a homeless shelter.

The Rigo's personally hired and overseen their contractors to turn the main room of this new homeless shelter into a huge library to rival any million dollar home in the area, including a reading room and entry hall. On a daily basis they oversaw the project for a period of four months.

"We have been told by our efforts, the new Samaritan Inn is today considered one of the most beautiful 'homeless shelters' in the United States" said Mr. Rigo. Because of their desires to pass on the blessings of financial success in their insurance business the Rigo's have elected to give all net profits from these two poetry books to Christian based programs and projects in the Collin County area of Texas to assist the poor, the homeless and the infirm. Copies of these charity driven poetry books can be ordered through this direct link in time for Christmas giving: http://www. lulu. com/texaspoet (http://www. lulu. com/texaspoet)

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Medical Transcription in the Era of Electronic Medical Records

2011-07-19T06:40:00.000-07:00

Medical Transcription in the Era of Electronic Medical Records

EMR has revolutionized the healthcare industry in recent times. Many experts felt that EMR & Voice Recognition would totally replace Medical Transcription - however; the industry soon realized that transcription has certain advantages over point & click charting and many physicians preferred to dictate notes rather than document the data at the point of care themselves.

Tarrytown, NY (PRWEB) August 15, 2006

The most critical part of any Electronic Medical Record (EMR) is the method of data entry. EMR is about aggregation of patient encounter data at the point of care in order to provide a complete, accurate, and timely view of patient information. An electronic medical record is not just a typed record of the patient encounter, but an extremely useful decision support tool. The data can be entered into the EMR via any of the two general mechanisms: direct entry by the physician using point and click templates or transcription of dictated notes. Point and click template indicates that each data element, which is to be inserted, requires selection, navigation, point and click process for capturing patient information.

Transcriptions have been around for years for documenting patient encounters. A medical provider dictates the medical note into a phone or a recording device. The transcriptionist receives the dictation and transcribes it. It may be reviewed by the supervisor for checking errors. The final computerized file is then either emailed directly to the healthcare provider or the file is transferred to a web site and is later downloaded by the provider.

Each method has its pros and cons.

Point and Click Templates

Most EMR systems allow providers to generate clinical documentation, by selecting variable terms from pre-structured point-and-click templates. Users simply point and click to select appropriate choices from lists of choices to record a patient encounter. The end result would be a document that closely resembles a transcribed procedure note.

Advantages

Completely customizable templates. The doctor can specify the layout of the template, which helps him to adjust the template as per his practice & procedure. Provide consistent, complete and accurate data. The chances of medical erros are reduced since the data is documented in customised forms. Notes for similar type of exams will appear to be standard and similar. Store / organize data for subsequent retrieval. Each click adds data elements to the database. Point-and-click systems create data that can be used to generate clinically useful reports, such as health maintenance reminders, disease management etc. One of the major advantages of template based charting is the time needed to make the document available as a medical record. Since notes are created within the EMR, they are available immediately upon completion.

Disadvantages

It takes more time, and definitely more concentration for a physician to navigate through large data set and create progress notes using point and click templates. Templates must be customized as per the physician’s requirement. Customization can be inflexible and costly. Well accepted by only tech-savvy doctors. The approach of direct data entry by the physician has generally failed because busy providers reject it altogether. Output from these templates is too canned and identical. It loses individuality for each patient. It is difficult for a provider to capture complete patient encounter on computer in front of a patient.

Medical Transcription

Transcription has long been the standard for documenting patient encounters. It is more convenient for a provider as compared to handwritten notes or electronic data entry. There are many advantages of transcription in comparison to point and click charting. There are a few disadvantages as well.

Advantages

Corresponds intuitively to the physician's usual method of working. Dictation remains the most intuitive and least time-consuming means of data entry. Physicians can dictate anytime, anywhere using PDA, Dictaphone or telephone at their convenience. Providers need not change the way they practice just to accommodate an EMR. EMR can interact with transcription service so that transcriptions can be attached directly into the patient’s electronic medical record, if such a facility is provided by the EMR vendor. It requires minimal training for physicians. Provides expressive power to describe patient’s condition and other health related events.

Disadvantages

Details of the exam can easily be forgotten and omitted while dictating, if dictation is not captured immediately at the point of care. It cannot be queried for generating reports unless transcribed in pre-formatted templates. Transcribed reports are not immediately accessible. Physicians would normally have to wait for 12 to 24 hours for charts to be delivered, unless few vendors supporting 2-4 hours short turn around time. Transcription provides for more efficient use of doctor's time. Although average transcribed report costs $2 to $4, it can reduce the doctor's time spent on data entry. Considering the value of doctor’s time, transcription is not a costly proposition.

EMR should give the freedom to the physician to decide to use either Point & Click or Medical Transcription. For a physician, the EMR that fits into his practice workflow would be invaluable. A competent EMR must have a template driven charting feature and the ability to interact with a transcription service at the same time. Both are indispensable features of Electronic Medical Record Software, as doctors are not unanimous on point and click charting or transcription. Such an EMR will be both efficient and cost effective.

The trends in transcription itself are changing with Medical Transcription service providers aiming to adopt new technologies. These technologies will evolve to increase efficiency & accuracy, decrease turnaround time and support data capture. While many of these technologies like such as digital dictation and electronic signature exist today, several technologies are still on the horizon.

The author, Mr. Divan Da’ve, is the CEO and Founder of OmniMD, a developer of HIPAA compliant EMR, EHR, and Practice Management System plus other healthcare IT products and services. OmniMD also provides medical transcription, medical billing, scanning and indexing, patient portal design and patient insurance eligibility services.

For more information on OmniMD, please visit http://www. omnimd. com (http://www. omnimd. com)

Media Contact

Nelson Jain

Corporate Communications

OmniMD

Ph: 914-332-5590 x 414

Fax: 914-332-5766

OmniMD

303, South Broadway, Suite 101,

Tarrytown, NY 10591

Ph: 914-332-5590

Fax: 914-332-5766

Www. omnimd. com

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National Equipment Register (NER) Releases 2004 Equipment Theft Report

2011-07-18T18:34:00.000-07:00

National Equipment Register (NER) Releases 2004 Equipment Theft Report

Today, the National Equipment Register (NER) released its second annual report studying the problem of heavy equipment theft in the US. Based on NERÂs database of over 70,000 theft reports and statistics from the Insurance Services Office (ISO), the report is a detailed study and analysis of construction and farm equipment losses and recoveries. The report seeks to answer the question: ÂWho steals how much of what, from where, how, why and where does it go?Â The report is being made available to police, NER clients and the media and will be on general release on March 1, 2005.

New York, NY (PRWEB) January 31, 2005

The aim of the study is to provide equipment owners, member insurance companies and law enforcement with information to help focus risk management and investigation resources in the most effective manner. To achieve this, statistics are put into context through footnotes, analyzed and conclusions drawn that relate to both the protection and investigation of heavy equipment. The report provides statistics on thefts in 2004 by state, type of theft location, type of equipment and looks at trends since 1995 that compare equipment theft against other types of loss such as damage. The report also looks at what type of equipment is being recovered and where. These statistics are used to suggest the underlying reasons for the high level of theft and low levels of recovery and to gauge the size of the overall problem.

Please email gsider@NERusa. com for a copy of the full report. A copy of the report will be posted on the NER website on March 1, 2005.

Similar reports will be published every January to help track trends and utilize the growing volume of data tracked by NER.

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Who on Earth Would 'Love' Travel Insurance?!?

2011-07-15T09:13:00.000-07:00

Who on Earth Would 'Love' Travel Insurance?!?

We all know insurance is not the greatest subject so Compare Travel Insurance have taken a quirky approach to promoting the industry. Have a look at what their lovable geek Eugene is up to stir the market in Australia.

(PRWEB) January 3, 2011

Compare Travel Insurance stepped out into the market today launching their newest campaign ‘I Love Insurance’, an industry-first effort to use social media as a platform to engage otherwise nonchalant consumers in the world of insurance.

Managing Director of Compare Travel Insurance, Eddie Feltham, said it was time for someone in the industry to break away from the traditional conservative approach to marketing insurance and inject some entertainment and personality into the industry.

“Travel insurance has never been a hot topic for the water cooler crowd – it’s not sexy or fashionable, but it is extremely important for travellers,” he said. “So we’ve had to look at another way to draw attention.”

An awkward but lovable geek named Eugene heads up the I Love Insurance campaign which is comprised of his blog: http://www. iloveinsurance. com. au, his Facebook & Twitter pages and virally dispersed webisodes filming his life and plight to get people talking about insurance.

Compare Travel Insurance engaged the services of a film production studio and social media experts to create an engaging character for people to follow.

“Chances are, people won’t like Eugene because they love insurance, people will like him because his little escapades are akin to a car crash, you think it’s probably not going to end well for him, but you’re captivated regardless,” Mr Feltham said.

So where’s the return on investment for such a campaign? Mr Feltham said that Compare Travel and the I Love Insurance campaign are not strictly concerned with generating revenue.

“Compare Travel is funding Eugene’s ventures because ultimately we’re not concerned with where you may get your travel insurance from, just that you get it in the first place. We’re trying to educate Australia on its importance,” he said.

Check out Eugene’s blog at http://www. iloveinsurance. com. au and help him win his wager with flatmate Jasper that he can get 1,000 fans to like I Love Insurance on Facebook: Facebook. com/pages/I-Love-Insurance/17275892607874

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CollegeInfoUSA. com Sees Traffic Rise, Students Turn to Most Convenient, Complete Source for Schools

2011-07-13T23:36:00.000-07:00

CollegeInfoUSA. com Sees Traffic Rise, Students Turn to Most Convenient, Complete Source for Schools

Anyone seeking to evaluate fully the range of education options is quickly discovering CollegeInfoUSA. com, a one-stop source for higher education information.

Clearwater, FL (PRWEB) October 1, 2010

With the number of site visits increasing dramatically, CollegeInfoUSA. com is fast becoming a favorite site for smart students carefully assessing their educational options. Unique among sites designed to help prospective students uncover a perfect program, CollegeInfoUSA. com includes the broadest range of both online education and traditional campus options. By visiting a single site, students can investigate all their educational options at the same time.

“CollegeInfoUSA. com is focused on assisting prospective students locate the right college, University, or Trade School by offering a vast selection of both online and campus based schools. When a prospective student does a search for their ‘area of study’ on CollegeInfoUSA. com, they will receive results for both online and campus based schools,” said Michael Potts, Director and Managing Member at Action Based Media.

The site boasts a sophisticated index and search interface, putting prospective students in complete control of their educational quest. No matter the starting point – degree type, study subject or institution location – CollegeInfoUSA. com boasts a clean, easy to navigate index and a powerful search.

CollegeInfoUSA. com is not just for four-year colleges or advanced degrees. People interested in technical and trade programs or in certificates to supercharge their career will find the site a useful stop on their quest for a better education.

“We believe that online schools offer more flexibility for a person that needs to work around their busy day to day schedule, but on the other hand some people are looking for a more structured classroom environment, which is why we offer information on both online and campus based schools,” said Potts.

CollegeInfoUSA. com is operated by Action Based Media, an online marketing leader. They identify and supply high quality leads to companies in the education, insurance and automotive sectors and are unmatched in providing their clients with the best ROI in online marketing.

Michael Potts
Director/Managing Member
727-216-6161 ext.222
Mike(dot)potts(at)actionbasedmedia(dot)com

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Irish Inventor Obtains US Patent for an Inexpensive Powder Complement to Water Based Sprinkler Systems

2011-07-09T06:30:00.000-07:00

Irish Inventor Obtains US Patent for an Inexpensive Powder Complement to Water Based Sprinkler Systems

Easy to install in more places and at a fraction of the cost compared to alternatives, Pyro-Sentinel fills a niche market.

Warren, NJ (PRWEB) February 16, 2009

Pyro-Sentinel Ltd. announced today its successful progress on obtaining patents on a worldwide basis for its new fire suppression system. The US Patent is No 7,385,480 and patents have also been obtained or are pending in over 180 Countries.

The new company named after its patented product does not use water or the more expensive gaseous alternative but rather uses a widely-available inexpensive non-toxic powder. The advantage of powder is that it causes little or no damage, and it is easy to clean up allowing the premises often to be returned to service within one day.

There are two versions. The first design is simply mass produced ceiling tiles incorporating a special membrane which melts from the heat of a fire, dropping the fire retarding powder. This was expanded to include a proactive electronic mechanism that heats cutters under the membrane to release the powder earlier, and includes options to automatically cut off electricity, gas and oil, turn on emergency lighting, exhaust fans where needed, computer imaging and system requirements plus personnel contacts and alarms etc.

The key is how inexpensive it is, and how most of it is made from very inexpensive widely available tools and materials such as an ordinary smoke or CO 2 detector and car batteries.

There are multiple niche markets for the invention. Pyro-Sentinel can compliment water sprinklers as a first responder, or it can act on its own in niche applications where water can be an issue due to supply or freezing temperatures, such as road/rail tunnels or ship containers.

Pyro-Sentinel will also fill a need in many untapped markets due to its lower cost of installation and maintenance. In assessing the cost of a system, insurance discounts may turn out to be deeper with Pyro-Sentinel largely due to the damage caused by water. Peter Fitzpatrick, the 72 year old engineer and inventor formerly of New Jersey but now living in his native Ireland said "You are looking to avoid damage - not cause it. Unfortunately, water from sprinklers can cause major damage to and even destroy the very things they are supposed to protect."

In comparison to systems that use water or inert gasses, fire suppression systems are designed to control fires, limiting the spread of the fire long enough to allow professional firefighters to respond and extinguish the fire before a total building loss can occur. Pyro-Sentinel's powder based approach is expected to perform exceptionally well in tests within accepted tolerances.

All systems have advantages and disadvantages, and Pyro-Sentinel is no exception. The main disadvantage is that it needs more space as the powder is stored above the protected area. There are many applications though where this is not an issue or alternatives are either not available or cost prohibitive.

It is the desire of all concerned within Pyro-Sentinel Ltd. that its system will become the newest firefighting weapon and will play an important part in the prevention of injuries or death and loss of property.

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MedTechIQ Selects TheBrain to Visualize Expansive Biointellingence Database and Connect the Dots Between Life Sciences, Medicine and Venture Capital

2011-07-08T02:49:00.000-07:00

MedTechIQ Selects TheBrain to Visualize Expansive Biointellingence Database and Connect the Dots Between Life Sciences, Medicine and Venture Capital

TheBrain's dynamic interface enhances Web community and presence by visualizing vast networks of information and deepening understanding of content.

Marina del Rey, CA (PRWEB) October 23, 2008

TheBrain® Technologies, the leading provider visualization software, announces that MedTechIQ has published several "Bioinfomediary Brains", on its social networking site to connect the dots between and link together vast networks of information on medical research, new ideas and venture capital.

"PersonalBrain's dynamic interface gives us an intelligent picture on otherwise invisible and complex business relationships, capturing the intricacies of how companies, academics, people and key concepts are related," said Conrad Clyburn, Co-Founder and Senior Partner of MedTechIQ. "Using PersonalBrain (http://www. thebrian. com/top12) I can make better decisions about new technologies and investment, in addition to sharing my vision of this industry landscape with my Web community. The discovery aspect of my own PersonalBrain for myself and the ability to publish my Brain and perspective for my community members is astounding."

TheBrain Technology (http://www. thebrain. com) augments MedTechIQ's business intelligence digital backbone where the organization creates, discovers, manages and shares information on advanced medical technologies. MedTechIQ's Biointelligence Database is visualized with TheBrain's dynamically reconfigurable visual interface. Clicking on a Thought in TheBrain triggers all related information so users can see key relationships at a glance and find all related connections. The Brain has over 55,000 medical technology "Thoughts" encompassing technology transfer, academic medical research, global subject matter experts, funding programs, industry, venture capitalists and market sectors.

"When you click through Conrad Clyburn's digital brain it's like entering another world," said Shelley Hayduk, Co-Founder of TheBrain. "His Brain is a testament to a great thinker and leader in medical technology research. We're pleased that PersonalBrain can enable this level of expression and interconnectivity to help companies and communities like MedTechIQ innovate and enhance community collaboration."

Users can browser through MedtechIQ's Brains and join the research community at: http://medtechiq. ning. com/ (http://medtechiq. ning. com/)

Conrad Clyburn and TheBrain Technologies are hosting a Web Event, Thursday, October 23, 10:00 am Pacific, 1:00 pm Eastern Time entitled: "Visualizing Complex "Triple Helix" Collaborations: Using Personal Brain & Web 2.0 to Connect the Dots Between Life Sciences, Medicine and Venture Capital."

Topics Covered include:
Mind Mapping and organizing ideas (http://blog. thebrain. com/beyond-hierarchies/), contacts and research Making connections between related information and building your information network Managing and changing large PersonalBrains Shifting contexts quickly to hone in on the right information within seconds Using your PersonalBrain as a presentation tool to communicate your vision Publishing your Brain as a SiteBrain on your Web site for easy access and sharing Attendees can sign up at http://www. thebrain. com/medtech (http://www. thebrain. com/#-152).

About the Clymer Group:
The Clymer Group LLC, the creator of the MedTechIQ "Web Space" and the T2IQ consultancy, is led by an outstanding management team with a demonstrated ability to build category-defining enterprises. The Co-Founders and Senior Partners are Conrad A. Clyburn, MS; Greg T. Mogel, MD; and Jeffrey I. Roller, MD, FACOG. MedTechIQ is their premier product for aggregating academic, government & industry information on advanced medical technology. Visit the MedtechIQ social networking site at: http://medtechiq. ning. com/ (http://medtechiq. ning. com/)

About TheBrain Technologies
TheBrain Technologies creates productivity software that helps people organize, visualize and share knowledge. TheBrain's Enterprise Knowledge Platform, BrainEKP™, is a Web based knowledgebase that facilitates easy collaboration and information discovery. TheBrain's enterprise customers include: Encyclopædia Britannica, Navy Special Warfare, Tyco, Park Nicollet, Medtronic, the US Department of Defense, California Casualty Insurance and other Fortune 1000 organizations. TheBrain's personal information management and dynamic mind mapping software, PersonalBrain™, helps users see and organize their files and ideas from their perspectives, emulating their own unique thinking and work habits. For a complimentary download of PersonalBrain, (http://www. thebrain. com/download) visit www. thebrain. com/download (http://www. thebrain. com/download)]. For more information, visit www. thebrain. com or e-mail info @ thebrain. com.

TheBrain, BrainEKP, and PersonalBrain are trademarks or registered trademarks of TheBrain Technologies LP. All other corporate names or trademarks stated herein are the property of their respective companies.

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PaperFree Corporation Receives Intelligent Capture Partner of the Year Award from EMC

2011-07-07T08:13:00.000-07:00

PaperFree Corporation Receives Intelligent Capture Partner of the Year Award from EMC

EMC recognizes PaperFree Corporation as The Intelligent Enterprise Capture Partner of the Year for achieving the highest sales revenue and for making the most significant investments to sell and support EMC Captiva® software.

San Diego, CA (Vocus) May 15, 2010

PaperFree Corporation today announced that it has been named Intelligent Enterprise Capture Partner of the Year by the Information Intelligence Group, a division of EMC.

EMC is a leading global developer and provider of information infrastructure technology and solutions. The Information Intelligence Group created the Top Partner Awards Program to recognize valuable partners in a variety of categories. These partners have exceeded sales and business goals, made significant contributions to customers’ success and demonstrated the highest commitment to providing superior sales and support of EMC products. PaperFree Corporation has been recognized for achieving the highest sales revenue and for making the most significant investments to sell and support EMC Captiva® software.

“We are pleased to award the 2009 Intelligent Enterprise Capture Partner of the Year Award to PaperFree Corporation,” said Paul O'Brien, Vice President and General Manager of Information Access, Information Intelligence Group, a division of EMC. “By continuing to invest in EMC Captiva®, which included training its sales staff and certifying over 20 engineers, PaperFree Corporation has been able to exceed revenue expectations year after year.”

PaperFree Corporation, headquartered in San Diego, CA, is a recognized leader in enterprise wide information capture and management solutions. The company has been an EMC Captiva partner for more than 10 years and specializes in working with government, healthcare, financial, and insurance customers nationwide.

“PaperFree is committed to bringing the very best technology and proven practices to our customers. This is precisely why we have chosen to tightly align with EMC by leveraging EMC Captiva, the market-leading intelligent enterprise capture solution.” said James Robinson, President and CEO at PaperFree. “PaperFree strives to remain customer centric in everything we do. We continue to make significant investments each and every day in both our people and the solutions that we provide. Being recognized by EMC as one of its valued partner with this Award is both an honor and a privilege for which we are grateful.”

For more information on PaperFree Corporation and the solutions they provide, please call 1-888-726-7730 or visit the web at http://www. paperfreecorp. com.

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M&S Money Report Record Sales of Dubai Currency

2011-06-29T00:51:00.000-07:00

M&S Money Report Record Sales of Dubai Currency

M&S Money reports sales of Dubai currency hit record levels as the QE22 prepares to leave the UK for the final time.

(PRWEB) November 21, 2008

As the QE2 leaves the UK for the final time before becoming a floating hotel in Dubai, figures from foreign currency expert M&S Money suggest that the region continues to be a popular winter destination for Brits.

Last month saw the highest ever amount of sales of foreign currency (http://www6.marksandspencer. com/pages/default. asp? PageID=Home&Product=TM (http://www6.marksandspencer. com/pages/default. asp? PageID=Home&Product=TM)) for Dubai, with more than £1million worth of UAE Dirham (AED) being sold through the network of M&S bureaux de change (http://www6.marksandspencer. com/pages/default. asp? PageId=ER&Product=TM (http://www6.marksandspencer. com/pages/default. asp? PageId=ER&Product=TM)), as well as on the phone and internet.

October's record figure has contributed to a 15% year-on-year increase in sales of the UAE Dirham - the currency used in the seven states which form the United Arab Emirates.

Dubai and the other UAE states have grown in popularity as a destination for Brits in recent years, whether on holiday, for business or visiting friends and family.

Hotels in Dubai have reported growing visitor numbers this year. According to the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing there was a 22 per cent growth in hotel revenues during the first three months of 2008, compared to the corresponding quarter last year.

The Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2) cruise liner is the longest-serving ship in the 168-year history of the Cunard line and is currently owned by Carnival, the world's largest cruise operator.

Having now left Southampton for the last time she will arrive in Dubai later this month, where she will undergo extensive refurbishment to become a floating hotel.

Fraser Millar, M&S Money Head of Travel Services, said: "Our travel money (http://www6.marksandspencer. com/pages/default. asp? PageID=Home&Product=TM (http://www6.marksandspencer. com/pages/default. asp? PageID=Home&Product=TM)) sales figures show that the UAE Dirham is one of the most popular currencies outside the Euro and US Dollar.

"October and November are usually the peak months for sales of the Dirham as people prepare to head-off for some winter sun. The high sales figures of last month may indicate that those who are travelling to the region are taking more cash as a result of the increased cost of living in Dubai. Travellers should bear this in mind when deciding how much currency to purchase before travelling."

According to www. dubaifaqs. com, visitors can expect to pay around:
Hotel room (per night): £50
Small car rental (per day): £17
Petrol (per gallon): £1.05
Beer (pint): £5
House wine: £30
Bottle of water (1.5 litre): 40p
Burger: £2.40
Foreign newspaper: £3

Brits spend on average £821 per visit to the UAE, or £76 per day (Figures from the Office for National Statistics Travel Trends 2006).

Notes to Editors

About M&S Money (http://www6.marksandspencer. com/ (http://www6.marksandspencer. com/)):
M&S Money (originally called Marks & Spencer Financial Services) was founded in 1985 as the financial services division of Marks and Spencer Group plc. The company is now a top-ten credit card provider and the second-largest travel money retailer in the UK. M&S Money also offers travel insurance as well as providing insurance for homes, cars, travel, pets and weddings, along with loans, savings and investments.

In November 2004, Marks & Spencer sold M&S Money to HSBC, one of the world's largest banking and financial services organisations with over 9,500 offices in 76 countries and territories. The business continues to operate under the M&S Money brand, with an executive committee comprising an equal number of representatives from HSBC and Marks & Spencer.

The company employs 1,200 staff at its headquarters in Chester, delivering personal financial services to its customers, reflecting the core values of Marks & Spencer -- quality, value, service, innovation and trust.

For further information please call the M&S Money press office:
Liz Neild
M&S Money press office
Marks & Spencer Money
Kings Meadow
Chester
CH99 9FB
01244 686 068
Www6.marksandspencer. com

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Damage Appraisal Division Expands to Social Network Scene

2011-06-28T05:44:00.000-07:00

Damage Appraisal Division Expands to Social Network Scene

The damage appraiser network division of Insurance Claim Contractor Group expands its' network of professionals offering property and casualty damage appraisals through the popular social network LinkedIn. Com.

Plantsville, CT (Vocus) February 26, 2010

Insurance Claim Contractor Group (ICC) shows a steady increase in requests for property, auto, marine and heavy equipment damage appraisals through its' LocalPropertyDamageAppraisers. Com (LPDA) division. ICC recently implemented a Property Damage Appraisal Network group on the popular social and business network, LinkedIn. Com. Social networks are growing by leaps and bounds and prove to be a great place to network with other professionals in the industry. ICC sees this expansion as a positive step toward assisting its' clients reach their target market in the insurance industry.

ICC's use of aggressive marketing strategies is proving to show positive results. ICC has seen an increase in requests for damage appraisals both on the east coast and throughout the Midwest, primarily due to severe weather conditions affecting these areas.

"This property appraisal division is designed to be an added layer of online visibility for our clients, by driving targeted local traffic to their services in their local area," says Tom Birmingham, co-founder. "Expanding into the social network arena seemed to be the next obvious step," he adds.

Insurance Claim Contractor Group recommends that businesses get involved in social business networks and local insurance-industry organizations as an added value to their marketing campaigns. The old mentality of "if you build it, they will come," no longer pertains to developing an online presence. It is more like "peeling an onion, one layer at a time." Insurance Claim Contractor Groups' primary goal is helping professionals in the insurance claim industry to build their own "onion" through diversified marketing campaigns.

ICC's team is primarily made up of insurance claim professionals who closely monitor the industry trends and look for new tools for lead generation. ICC's team of expert marketers continues to push the envelope and design new tools for enhancing the marketing campaigns for insurance professionals.

"Not much is black and white these days. You need to be creative and always think outside the box. Many of our new divisions come from requests by our clients, including our LPDA division and new Linkedin. com group. We want to meet our clients' needs and give them cost effective means for generating new business," says Tom Birmingham, co-founder.

Some key members of Insurance Claim Contractor Group LLC include:

PuroClean Restoration Services/ PuroClean Emergency Restoration Specialists/PuroClean Property Damage Restoration - Each company provides 24 hour emergency restoration in Texas. Their services include water removal, dehumidification, and deodorization, fire, smoke and soot remediation, mold mitigation and specialty remediation services. They work directly with major insurance companies and their adjusters and are a preferred vendor for Keller Williams Realty, a nationally recognized realty company. They provide emergency remediation services to both residential and commercial properties and specialize in bio-hazard recovery services, specific to crime scene decontamination in Harris County, Fort Bend County, Galveston County, Waller County, Brazoria County, Austin County, and Wharton County Texas.

Western States Pool Inspection Services - Providing decking, spa and pool inspection services for the insurance claim industry throughout Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah and Washington State. They do inspections for insurance adjusters and claims agents to assess the actual physical damage and to determine the cause of the damage. They handle all types of damage claims, such as soot and fire damage claims, earthquake damage claims, and flooding damage claims.

About Insurance Claim Contractor Group:
Insurance Claim Contractor Group LLC is founded and supported by contractors, adjusters and marketing experts working within the insurance claim field. ICC's goal is to increase visibility for skilled insurance claim vendors and set them apart from their competitors, by offering many online marketing services to enhance online visibility and drive traffic to their businesses. Some of Insurance Claim Contractor Group's services include, but are not limited to: National Online Directory Listing Service, Lead Generation Service (PostInsuranceClaim. Com), Property Damage Appraisal Services (LocalPropertyDamageAppraisers. Com), Insurance Quote Lead Generation Tool (LocalInsuranceQuotesOnline. Com), Web-based Contractor Claim Management Solution (Restoreproof. Com), Website Design & Development Services, Search Engine Optimization Services, Search Engine Marketing Services, Real Time Fire, Water, Smoke and Structure Alerts, Banner Advertising, Interactive Marketing, Podcasting Services, Newsletter & Collateral Development and Email Marketing Services.

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Eriksen Translations Receives Prize in Women Presidents' Educational Organization Challenge

2011-06-28T02:51:00.000-07:00

Eriksen Translations Receives Prize in Women Presidents' Educational Organization Challenge

The Women Presidents' Organization, an advocate of supplier diversity, recognized Eriksen Translations on June 9 for the significant amount of business the company does with sponsoring corporations and other certified women-owned businesses.

Brooklyn, NY (PRWEB) June 23, 2006

Eriksen Translations was recognized on Friday, June 9, at the Women Presidents’ Educational Organization’s (WPEO) Breakthrough Breakfast at The NBC Rainbow Room with second prize in the Inaugural Done Deals™ Challenge. Done Deals™ is a WPEO program that reports contracts between corporate members and certified women’s business enterprises (WBEs).

“We are proud to be recognized by an organization that promotes supplier diversity and opportunities for companies like ours. As Eriksen continues to grow, we are grateful to all of our champions, both the clients who rely on us for their multilingual needs and organizations like the WPEO who advocate for us so tirelessly," said Vigdis Eriksen, president and CEO of Eriksen.

Of the 475 Done Deals™ that were reported, Eriksen submitted 52 completed transactions with a variety of clients in government, finance, pharmaceuticals, and insurance. These companies ranged from Fortune 100 corporations to other WBEs and represented translation, editing, typesetting and copywriting in 12 of the over 100 languages Eriksen offers.

"This year we focused on encouraging the WBEs to use their business strengths and the access we provide to close the deal," said Marsha Firestone, Ph. D., the president of the WPEO. Eriksen has built long-standing relationships with all of its Done Deals™ partners and is continuing to reach out to other companies who can benefit from its 20 years of localization expertise.

About Eriksen Translations Inc.

Eriksen Translations Inc. is a leading provider of multilingual services in over 100 languages, including translation, interpreting, typesetting, project management, Web localization, and cultural consulting. Founded in 1986, Eriksen helps organizations in a broad range of industries excel across print, desktop, and Web environments in the domestic and global marketplace. For more information, please visit www. erikseninc. com.

About the Women Presidents’ Educational Organization

The Women Presidents' Educational Organization (WPEO) is a regional affiliate of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), the nation’s premier third party certification organization for women owned businesses. The mission of the WPEO is to create increased access to business opportunities for WBEs. Our programs develop skills and knowledge for WBEs, advocate in the public and private sectors, foster relationships between WBEs, corporations and the government, and provide certification services. WPEO provides full service third party certification to women entrepreneurs in the New York, Northern New Jersey, Southern Connecticut and the Washington, DC, Maryland and Virginia areas. WPEO is incorporated in the state of New York and is recognized as a 501(c)(3) organization. For more information, please visit www. wpeo. us or call (212) 688-4114.

# # #

SAGE Scholars Adds 1,467 students to the Tuition Rewards Program in the Month of October

2011-06-27T10:49:00.000-07:00

SAGE Scholars Adds 1,467 students to the Tuition Rewards Program in the Month of October

SAGE Scholars, America's largest private college savings program with over 79,000 sponsored students, is changing the way families, colleges and savings companies approach college savings.

Philadelphia, PA (PRWEB) November 7, 2005

It could be because “back to school” season is over; it could be the increased number of schools that offer Tuition Rewards; whatever the reason, families are paying a lot more attention to the little college savings company in Philadelphia, SAGE Scholars. In the month of October 1,467 new students were sponsored in SAGE, bringing the total to over 79,000 students in the Tuition Rewards Program.

Tuition Rewards, which allows families to earn guaranteed discounts off tuition at participating schools by saving with SAGE’s financial partners, after considerable development and testing, was launched in 2000. “We are very pleased with our growth,” stated Mark Forsyth who heads SAGE’s business development efforts. “SAGE’s priority is to help families realize that a private college education is affordable. We need to promote our member schools and affiliate financial firms so that families can see that there are a lot of people working to solve the problem of increasing tuition.” Mark’s and SAGE’s message is a good one: if a family is willing to do the right thing, which is save for college, then they should be rewarded. By being part of the Tuition Rewards Program a family can, before their son or daughter even applies to a school, reduce tuition costs by up to 25%.

The increasing number of schools joining Tuition Rewards in recent months is also helping SAGE. Major education institutions like Creighton University, Endicott College and the Florida Institute of Technology have joined SAGE in recent months; this has given the Tuition Rewards Program a big boost. According to Forsyth “the success of the Tuition Rewards Program will be directly tied to the number of schools that encourage families to save for college. To that extent, SAGE will need to continue to develop partnerships with private colleges and universities, which will help SAGE promote the affordability of private higher education.”

While families and colleges have been taking note of the Tuition Rewards Program and financial institutions around the country are now beginning to jump on the Tuition Rewards bandwagon. “SAGE has had success partnering with Pennsylvania’s TAP 529 Plan, the Horace Mann Insurance Company, Ziegler Brokers and Asset Marketing Systems, and we are now in serious discussions with several additional major financial institutions.” Forsyth continued by saying “If SAGE signs up the firms that I think we will, there are going to be several marketing directors who will have to answer the question “Why are we not offering this?”

Some colleges are likening SAGE to the “little engine that could” in the college savings market. Doug Swartz, who is Westminster College’s (PA) Dean of Admissions, said this about SAGE: “Last year SAGE helped Westminster matriculate thirteen students. No other college savings program has been as helpful, and SAGE has grown a lot in recent months.” Westminster is only one of nearly fifty SAGE member colleges and universities that admitted students with Tuition Rewards in 2005.

As more colleges, families and ultimately financial firms take notice of SAGE Scholars and the Tuition Rewards Program, the way families save and plan for the costs of higher education could change as well as who they save with and where they send their kids to school. SAGE has brought together the three sides of college savings – families, investment firms and colleges – so that scholarships, savings and financial aid can be openly and honestly discussed.

About SAGE Scholars:

SAGE Scholars is an education funding and information provider specializing in college savings and tuition planning. SAGE uniquely brings together scholarships, student loans, 529s and other investments, college search and cost calculators to help families and financial professionals plan for college expenses.

SAGE Scholars is currently, by number of participating students, the largest private college saving program in America. SAGE currently works with over 78,000 students and over 175 private colleges and universities. In addition, SAGE’s list of financial partners includes Ziegler Brokers, Horace Mann, Asset Marketing Systems, Pennsylvania’s TAP 529 Plan, and Allianz.

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Expenditure on Automotive Services is Expected to Show Some Sluggish Growth in 2006 and 2007, in Line with the General Slowdown in the UK New Car Market

2011-06-24T04:14:00.000-07:00

Expenditure on Automotive Services is Expected to Show Some Sluggish Growth in 2006 and 2007, in Line with the General Slowdown in the UK New Car Market

Research and Markets has announced the addition of Automotive Services Market Report 2005 to their offering.

(PRWEB) January 23, 2006

Research and Markets (http://www. researchandmarkets. com/reports/c31148 (http://www. researchandmarkets. com/reports/c31148)) has announced the addition of Automotive Services Market Report 2005 to their offering.

The value of the UK automotive services industry is estimated to have reached £13.76bn in 2005, up by 1.9% on 2004 and 9% higher than in 2001. Expenditure on automotive services has been boosted by the buoyancy of the UK new car market and by the steady increase in the number of cars on the road.

The automotive services sector consists of car servicing and mechanical repairs, car body repairs, and breakdown and recovery services. Car servicing and mechanical repairs is the largest of these sectors and was also the fastest growing between 2001 and 2005. A range of organisations operate under the general heading of car servicing and mechanical repairs, including franchised car dealers, independent garages, garage chains, autocentres, fast-fit centres and mobile service units. Car body repairs is the second-largest sector of the market. The cost of both new and used cars has fallen over the past 10 years and this has placed limits on the amount that car owners and insurance companies are willing to spend on bodywork repairs. Breakdown and recovery services is the smallest sector of the market. This is a fairly mature sector and the leading suppliers are extending the range of services they offer in order to increase their revenues.

Changes to the EU's block exemption ruling for cars has created the potential for increased competition in the market for vehicle servicing and repairs. The after-sales market has been opened up, with a change to the rules linking new car sales and servicing. Dealers still have to ensure that customers' cars are serviced and repaired to manufacturer-approved standards, but they no longer have to do it themselves. Independent garages and roadside assistance organisations now have much greater access to technical information, including diagnostic equipment and software.

The three sectors of the market have been affected by a number of factors since 2001. Although the number of new cars on the road has increased, recommended service intervals have lengthened due to the higher quality and reliability of components, and this has impacted on the car servicing companies. Within the car body repairs sector, the desire of insurance companies to write off the rapidly declining value of older cars rather than fund their repair partly controls the value of the market. The vehicle breakdown and recovery market has benefitted from increases in the number of cars on the road. However, the basic costs of their services are low as increased reliability in new cars makes breakdowns less likely.

Expenditure on automotive services is expected to show some sluggish growth in 2006 and 2007, in line with the general slowdown in the UK new car market. Thereafter, and up to 2010, growth rates are predicted to increase with car servicing and repairs continuing to be the most buoyant sector.

For more information visit http://www. researchandmarkets. com/reports/c31148 (http://www. researchandmarkets. com/reports/c31148)

Laura Wood

Senior Manager

Research and Markets

Press@researchandmarkets. com

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Can CFOs and CEOs Ever Love Environmental and Safety Compliance?

2011-06-12T20:44:00.000-07:00

Can CFOs and CEOs Ever Love Environmental and Safety Compliance?

Environmental and safety managers are not very good at explaining the benefits of their programs to numbers-minded management. BLR has produced a tool kit that explains how to bring ROI into compliance activities.

Old Saybrook, CT (PRWEB) December 27, 2004

Safety and environmental managers across the country have been busy lobbying their management to justify departmental budget requests. The argument seems simple enough Â protecting worker safety and preserving the environment always seems like a good idea. But with skeptical top brass faced with relentless costs and competitive pressures, is there any way to convince management that being a good corporate citizen is worth the cost?

ÂTraditionally, EHS (Environmental, Health, and Safety) functions are viewed as cost centers, or a drain on the companyÂs resources,Â says David Galt, EHS editor at Business & Legal Reports, Inc. EHS roles typically include training, energy efficiency measures, pollution prevention, waste reduction, safety compliance, and environmental permit compliance.

ÂThe problem is not only that these activities are viewed as expenses,Â says Galt, Âbut itÂs also made worse because most managers do not have the first idea how to convey EHS benefits to top management in terms that will be understood.Â

The environmental compliance experts at BLR have just developed a toolkit of techniques to help compliance managers vividly display the economic advantages of EHS programs. The ROI of EHS: Practical Strategies to Demonstrate the Business Value of Environmental, Health, and Safety Functions, puts several easy-to-use financial tools at managersÂ disposal.

To get management to say yes, according to Galt, Âthe key is for managers to learn to translate costs into investments that can be seen as benefiting the firmÂs business value, using the right EHS-business value measuring metrics.Â Galt cites as an example a budget item to reduce lost workdays from accidents. The economic benefit would be the $/year or percent insurance premium cost reduction. Or, if a proposal were to invest in a new effluent reduction system, the benefit would be the dollar savings resulting from reduced waste disposal quantities.

EHS managers can receive a Free excerpt of The ROI of EHS tool kit by calling BLR at 800-727-5257, or service@blr. com.

About BLR

Old Saybrook, Conn.-based BLR produces plain-English references for environmental and safety managers, including Environmental Compliance (in Your State), a state-specific service. For more information and a free catalog, call 1-800-727-5257 or visit www. BLR. com.

Contacts:

BLR Editor:

David Galt

Editors@blr. com

860 510-0100 x 2378

Business editors

Industry Keyword: Safety, Environmental compliance, manufacturing, chemicals

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Expand Media Takes a Costly Stand for the Environment and Good Labor Practices

2011-06-09T19:38:00.000-07:00

Expand Media Takes a Costly Stand for the Environment and Good Labor Practices

Expand International who started manufacturing trade show displays 60 years ago and has become known as the BMW of the portable display industry sets the mark for high quality and unsurpassed reliability at a cost. With a life time warranty and ISO 9001 certified plant Expand International continues to lead the way in the portable display industry with the introduction of its new portable flags has had a zero tolerance for child labor in any of its facilities and a green policy in place for many years.

Stratford, CT (PRWEB) November 16, 2007

Expand International, who started manufacturing trade show displays 60 years ago and has become known as the BMW of the portable display industry, sets the mark for high quality and unsurpassed reliability at a cost. With a life time warranty and ISO 9001 certified plant Expand International continues to lead the way in the portable display industry with the introduction of its new portable flags and a zero tolerance for poor working conditions, sometime horrifically exemplified by child labor in low cost factories. In addition to its labor policy Expand also has the same Quality and Environmental policies in place for all of its facilities, regardless if they are in Europe, USA or China.

"Expand is a very unique company in the display industry, it does not tolerate poor labor practices in any of its factories. Expand has a green friendly corporate policy and has an ISO 9001 certified plant. In todays display market we see products coming in from overseas that use very poor labor standards and whose factories and products are far from meeting the standards of the US market."

In talking with Bjorn G. Sao from Expand International of America we were told that "Expand could make their products cheaper but then we would be like the majority of the foreign manufacturers who sell to US importers in the portable display (http://expandmedia. com/us) industry. We do not make disposal equipment or limited use displays". Expands spends a great deal of money for product liability insurance and does not hire children in our overseas factories and has a five day work week similar to the United States.

"Look at places like Amazon or Craig's list or the Internet, the same retractable banner stands are being sold under various names by many companies and ask a question-who is behind this company and who assembled these units". The same is true for the pop up displays, Internet web sites have the same displays being sold under many different names and they are being imported for their low cost not how well they function or how long they will last. If a company is looking for a disposable display system then Expand International is not the company you want to be considering. If you are looking for a product that works well under various conditions and has a life time warranty (http://expandmedia. com/us) and has a green policy then look at Expand.

"Expands products are not inexpensive compared to many other companies in the business but Expand manufactures products to the highest levels and as a company maintain the highest set of quality standards for labor practices, don't cut corners with materials and have a Green friendly factory."

In the world of trade show displays you get what you pay for. While well-designed websites give the illusion that every company is selling quality trade show booths and display hardware once the consumer looks closer they are finding a wide range of quality from company-to-company and the same products just being sold under various names.

Look at Expand Internationals (http://www. expandmedia. com) new outdoor flag system and the buyer, the marketing department or sales team will find that a great deal of time has been spent in the engineering for longevity of life in all types of weather conditions. The Flag Stand XL is a portable flag stand perfect for all outdoor events, marketing activities and product campaigns. It is very stable even in strong winds, up to 35 miles per hour and can be used in almost any weather conditions and is over 18 feet tall. Expand offers something different and it carries the Expand life time warranty and is backed by a 65 year old company.

The freestanding Expand flag stand 1 is available with either a 'X' base or an optional ground stake goes up in minutes. Graphics are printed onto one or both sides of fabric so that the image will read whichever side it is viewed from. The Expand Flag-stand 1 is available in three different heights -- 6.5 feet, 10 feet and 13 feet and are a perfect complement to the outdoor double sided retractable banner stand that was introduced by Expand last year.

The flags are truly spectacular and have been tested in wind guests up to 35 miles per hour and have preformed very well. Weather an event being held in a park, the beach, the snow or the desert or a parking lot these flags will make your product stand out and be visible from one end of a football field to the other. Expands flag and pole system are the best offered on the market today and are backed with a lifetime warranty, integrity and quality standards that others try to copy and say there products are similar to or like but they are not.

Expand International who started manufacturing trade show displays 60 years ago and has become know as the BMW of the portable display (http://www. expandmedia. com/us) industry sets the mark for high quality and unsurpassed reliability. For outdoor retractable banner stands, out door marketing events and giant flags and portable flag poles Expand International is the leader in the display industry and has not used child labor and have a green policy.

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Phishing, Account Hijacking Myths Exposed

2011-06-09T04:15:00.000-07:00

Phishing, Account Hijacking Myths Exposed

One of the challenges facing internet users today is the growing problem of account hijacking, also called ÂphishingÂ.

(PRWEB) August 12, 2005

One of the challenges facing internet users today is the growing problem of account hijacking, also called ÂphishingÂ. Phishing is the fastest growing type of identity theft and is the type most common on the internet. Typically, phishers use e-mails or other means to lure victims to counterfeit websites where they are tricked into divulging financial and other confidential data such as credit card numbers, account IDs, passwords, and social security numbers. Consumer and business losses in 2004 resulting from phishing are estimated to exceed five billion ($5,000,000,000) US dollars.

Another of the challenges facing internet users today is debunking the many myths regarding phishing.

PHISHING MYTHS

Myth:

ÂMy bank account is insured by the FDIC, so I will get my money back if it is stolen by phishersÂ.

Truth:

Many consumers mistakenly assume that if their bank account is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, they will be reimbursed for losses due to fraud or theft. In fact, FDIC deposit insurance only protects bank accounts up to $100,000 if the bank or savings institution FAILS, not if the funds are simply stolen. Like mutual funds, investments, and safe deposit boxes, losses due to fraud and theft are NOT covered under FDIC deposit insurance. Some banks elect to cover such losses out of their own pockets or they may purchase a form of insurance called a bankerÂs blanket bond from which they may cover the losses. Other banks offer no reimbursement of any kind to their customers. If you want to know whether or not your bank account is protected against loss due to phishing or account hijacking, you must inquire at your individual bank and donÂt believe the ill-informed teller who says, Âoh yes, it is covered under our FDIC insuranceÂ. For additional information on what is and is not covered by FDIC insurance, you can read the FDIC brochure, ÂInsured or Not InsuredÂ found on the FDIC website: http://www. fdic. gov/consumers/consumer/information/fdiciorn. html (http://www. fdic. gov/consumers/consumer/information/fdiciorn. html)

Myth:

ÂAs long as I donÂt open any unknown email, I canÂt become a victim of phishingÂ.

Truth:

While it is true that most phishing scams involve the use of fraudulent email (called ÂspoofÂ email), this is not always the case. The fastest growing form of identity theft on the internet, growing at an even faster rate than traditional phishing, is a type of theft called ÂpharmingÂ. Pharming is the exploitation of vulnerabilities in DNS servers, machines responsible for resolving internet names into their real addresses. Phishers exploit these vulnerabilities to redirect their victimÂs browser away from the desired website to their own malicious website. This can be accomplished without relying on a victim clicking the link in a spoof email. In the most insidious form of pharming, an attacker infects the victimÂs computer with auto-redirection software, typically through a virus, a file downloaded from a questionable website, or even from scripts hidden on a malicious webpage. The victim is then quietly redirected to the phisherÂs fraudulent website every time they type the authentic website address into their browserÂs address bar or select it from their browserÂs ÂfavoritesÂ menu. Using pharming in conjunction with URL masking techniques (substituting the actual fraudulent website address in the browser address bar with an apparent valid website address), the victim has no way of realizing they are not visiting the authentic webpage, but are, instead, visiting a phishing website.

Myth:

ÂMy firewall and anti-virus software will protect me from phishing websitesÂ.

Truth:

In fact, firewall and anti-virus software offers very little protection against phishing. They may help in preventing you from inadvertently downloading or becoming infected with pharming auto-redirection software, but they offer no protection against you being tricked into visiting a phishing website.

Myth:

ÂIÂm too smart to be fooled or caught by a phishing scamÂ.

Truth:

The Federal Trade Commission reported in December of 2004 that almost 2 million U. S. adult Internet users experienced some form of phishing fraud during the 12 months ending April 2004, equivalent to 10% of all the U. S. households with a computer. The Anti-Phishing Working Group reports 2625 new phishing websites were spawned in February 2005 alone and phishing attacks grew by 4000% between 2004 and 2005. Statistically, more people became a victim of phishing last year in the United States than filed for bankruptcy or graduated from high school. More people became a victim of phishing last year in the United States than are serving in all branches of the United States armed forces combined. (Source: US Census Bureau http://www. census. gov (http://www. census. gov)).

Myth:

ÂThere are plenty of anti-phishing solutions available. I read about new products being announced almost daily.Â

Truth:

Until recently, there have been few solutions to combat phishing. Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and other companies have experimented with various forms of "filtering" or "blocking" software or hardware to try and shut down phishing webpages before they reach consumers. Software companies have spent enormous sums of money attempting to develop software or browser-based solutions.

On Dec 14, 2004, the U. S. Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the FDIC) published a study presenting their findings on how the financial industry and its regulators could mitigate the risks associated with Phishing. In this report, the FDIC identified two root causes for the problem of phishing; 1) user authentication by the financial services industry for remote customer access is insufficiently strong, and 2) the internet lacks website authentication capabilities. Virtually all of the anti-phishing ÂsolutionsÂ recently announced in the press fail these two FDIC tests. Some simply lookup IP or other domain ÂwhoisÂ records and calculate risk. Some rely on databases of blacklisted websites and selectively permit or block access based on company-defined filtering rules. Others enhance an existing weak login process with additional layers of images, audio recordings, or other user-supplied information. Strictly speaking, none of these approaches are actually using approved strong authentication methods to authenticate the websites themselves, the root causes of phishing.

In fact, of all the anti-phishing solutions recently announced in the press, the only one that actually employs an approved strong authentication method to authenticate the website itself is PhishCops by Sestus Data Corporation. PhishCops uses algorithms approved by the U. S. Dept of Commerce for use in authenticating sensitive data and applies these algorithms to proactively authenticate websites using a 100% web-based approach. It does not rely on any database of ÂblacklistedÂ phishing websites, filtering rules, additional login process layers, or on potentially fraudulent ÂwhoisÂ or IP records.

PhishCops is patent-pending and Sestus Data Corporation reports that they are negotiating with a number of ÂsignificantÂ financial entities regarding implementation at this time. Launch of the product as an online service is scheduled to begin later this year and will be free for users and fee-based for businesses. The company has been accepting reduced-fee early-signup requests from online businesses for several weeks and will begin permitting users to register online shortly. In addition to being free for users, PhishCops user accounts will be completely anonymous and users will not be required to disclose any personal information during registration, not even their name or email address. Once registered, a userÂs PhishCops User ID will be valid at all participating websites.

Sestus Data Contact Info:

Media Relations, Sestus Data

Info@sestusdata. com

Fax: (866) 621-1885

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

# # #

Wortix Healthcare Takes Aim at the Healthcare Crises

2011-06-08T06:29:00.000-07:00

Wortix Healthcare Takes Aim at the Healthcare Crises

Wortix Healthcare, wortix. com is a service that facilitates patient's online treatment by doctors. This e-health initiative was designed for the purpose of empowering consumers to regain control of their healthcare. Preventive medicine is a critical component of solving chronic health issues. Increased patient/doctor (i. e. Wortix Healthcare/e-health) communication will play a major role in reducing the incidents of these chronic cases.

Orlando, Fl (PRWEB) April 23, 2008

Wortix Healthcare, wortix. com allows the consumer to access doctors online for diagnosis and treatment. Predicated on our research, 40-60% of patient conditions can be facilitated online. Patients will eventually be able to seek second opinions and have a primary care physician refer their online patient to specialists online. Wortix was designed to allow medical imagery to be transmitted from patient to doctor and doctor to doctor. For conditions that cannot be treated online, doctors can direct patients to the appropriate facility.

Information will be encrypted and stored anonymously on servers throughout the country. Patients will have full and complete access to their own and family member's access, which gives them the control they currently don't have. The information on diagnosis and treatments is easily downloaded to take to another provider. Wortix Healthcare will not have access to patient's identity as they are stored by screen names.

Wortix Healthcare, wortix. com will help physicians save time by cutting down on unnecessary office visits. The patient saves time too. Primary care physician practices will benefit the most as most are burdened by the overwhelming number of patients they have to see. That said most practices and Healthcare institutions should benefit from the use of Wortix Healthcare.

Wortix Healthcare has 3 platforms;

1.Healthcare Organizations-Hospitals, Medical Practices, Insurance companies
2.General Public - Currently operational in South America and has a humanitarian element for individuals who either don't have access to doctors or can't afford one.
3.Governmental - Governmental Healthcare organizations

Go to wortix. com for more information on the 3 models

The Wortix Healthcare system will be compatible with iPhone, Google Health and Microsoft "HealthVault".

Online treatments are reimbursable: Aetna and Cigna have recently accepted online treatments for reimbursement. Others are expected to follow.

Wortix Healthcare was designed for the empowerment of the consumer in developed countries and for use in developing countries where the population doesn't have access to doctors.

During a recent interview, Founder and C. E.O. Jorge Canal said, "Wortix Healthcare is the next killer app that brings balance to the way health resources are allocated locally and globally."

Wortix Healthcare is located in Lake Mary Florida. For more information go to: wortix. com or call Geoff Levin at 407-302-5496.

###

Benefit Software Inc. Receives High Customer Approval Ratings For Delivery of Printed Benefits Statements

2011-06-03T13:20:00.000-07:00

Benefit Software Inc. Receives High Customer Approval Ratings For Delivery of Printed Benefits Statements

Benefit Software Inc., (www. bsiweb. com), a leading Software as a Service (SaaS) provider of online employee benefits enrollment and communication solutions, today announces the results of its annual client satisfaction survey for its Printed Benefit Statement Services. The survey showed that 98 percent of clients using Benefit Software's outsourced service to produce Total Compensation statements were satisfied with their projects, and that they reported exceptionally high marks across the board for the project management process, the level of service, and the on-time delivery of the finished product.

Santa Barbara, CA (PRWEB) February 10, 2009

Benefit Software produces Total Compensation, Total Rewards, and Benefit Statements for more than 200 organizations employing more than 150,000 employees. The survey asked clients to rate a variety of aspects involved in the completion of their statement project and included the following results:
98 percent were satisfied with their project. 99 percent reported that they were kept well informed during the project 100 percent reported that they received timely and accurate drafts of the statements 98 percent reported being pleased with the look of their statements. 9 out of 10 clients agreed that the employee data summaries made it easy to audit employee statements. 9 out of 10 clients agreed that the project management website made the project easy to manage. 9 out of 10 clients agreed that the printed statements were completed within a reasonable timeline. 100 percent reported that the project manager was responsive and more than 99 percent agreed that the project manager was knowledgeable.

While the outsourcing of Human Resources functions is growing in popularity, the findings from a recent Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) poll indicate a less than overwhelming level of satisfaction. According to the SHRM 2008 Outsourcing Poll, only 35 percent of respondents were "very satisfied" and 55 percent were "somewhat satisfied" with their vendor outsourcing relationships. Similarly, only 32 percent were "very satisfied" and 53 percent were "somewhat satisfied" with their vendor outsourced services.

"To realize true ROI from their outsourcing partnerships employers need to select a vendor that delivers superior service on time and on budget," says William Smith, Vice President of Sales at Benefit Software Inc. "Our goal is to help clients understand benefits communications best practices and then work with them to design and produce statements that deliver on all counts."

Emanuel Medical Center (Turlock, CA) is one organization that realized ROI from engaging Benefit Software to produce custom statements for more than 1,000 of its benefit-eligible employees. "The Printed Benefit Statement Practice Team simplified the entire process for us and we are extremely pleased not only with the quality of the statements, but also with the speed and efficiency in which they completed the project," says Karen Curiel, Benefits Analyst. "In addition, we were impressed with the secure manner is which Benefit Software handled the confidential employee data that we transmitted to them. Viewing the benefits information and the associated costs in print was an eye-opening experience for our employees and one that has earned us the reputation of employer of choice in our area, which is demonstrated by our low turnover and high retention rates."

"Providing exceptional service is about exceeding client expectations," says Heather Bechtol, Head of the Printed Benefit Statement Practice of Benefit Software's Professional Services Division. "Our team members combine their in-depth knowledge of benefits with IT acumen, project management expertise, and top-notch design and production skills to provide our clients with a complete solution for producing quality, high-impact statements. Moreover, with growing concerns over privacy and accountability, providing a secure website to manage the project is critical to ensuring data security and project transparency."

About Printed Benefit Statement Services

Members of the Printed Benefit Statement Practice team can support clients through the entire benefits communication process--from strategy and statement design to data gathering and final production--or step in at any point to help them affordably execute their strategic communication goals. Printed benefit statement services include:

Consultation and project analysis to determine individual requirements and needs, such as budgets, statement formats, internal review processes, and production schedules.

A comprehensive, multi-stage timeline approved by the client.

A secure, private client engagement Web site to manage communications and project milestones.

Statement design that accounts for messaging, logos, supporting graphics, and color. Options include straightforward single-page summary statements to comprehensive, graphically rich, multi-page statements that can include survey responses.

Drafting of copy for the statement. This also can include a review of existing company communications (benefit descriptions, enrollment handbook, carrier information, etc.) to ensure the accuracy and consistency of all content.

Integration of employee census information and, if applicable, data files from third-party administrators or insurance agents.

Professional production and printing services to ensure high quality finished statements.

A rigorous consultation and review process throughout the engagement to ensure that employee benefit statements meet changing requirements in each client's dynamic work environment.

About Benefit Software Inc.

Benefit Software Inc. (BSI) is a leading Software as a Service (SaaS) provider of highly effective employee benefits enrollment and communication solutions. In addition to developing and hosting Fringe Facts® Online, a leading Best-of-Breed online enrollment service, the company designs, develops, and sells PC software applications that allow organizations to internally develop employee Total Rewards, Total Compensation, or Benefit Statements. BSI also offers printed Total Rewards, Total Compensation, or Benefit Statement services through its Professional Services team. The dedicated staff at BSI have backgrounds in human resources, employee benefits, insurance, finance, program development, software support, and training. Incorporated in 1978, the company has helped more than 5,000 customers find solutions to their employee benefits communication problems. The company continues to develop new benefits communication solutions for employers and insurance professionals. For more information, visit www. bsiweb. com.

###

Generating Growth in a Contracting Economy

2011-06-02T02:03:00.000-07:00

Generating Growth in a Contracting Economy

A consumer recommendation and loyalty study, conducted by Engaged Marketing, suggests that many businesses have a huge opportunity to grow even in a shrinking economy. The analysis of five major Australian Industry sectors utilised the highly regarded Net Promoter Score®, which has an acknowledged link to business growth, to measure performance. Only 2 out of 31 brands achieved world class scores and only 7 achieved a positive score. This highlights that many organisations have the potential to increase business performance through increasing customer focus.

Brisbane, Australia (PRWEB) April 1, 2009

Engaged Marketing founder and Director Chris Roberts argues slashing staff to reduce costs may be exactly the wrong thing to do when times get tough.

Mr Roberts said, instead enhancing customer loyalty is critical in a slowing economy.

"Though increasing customer focus rather than cutting costs may seem counter intuitive, when you factor in the incremental loyalty, repurchase rates, and especially word of mouth it makes perfect economic sense," he said.

Mr Roberts said his analysis of five major Australian industry sectors, using the highly-regarded Net Promoter Score®, strongly suggests many organisations have the potential to increase customer loyalty and business performance.

He said, "The Net Promoter Score asks customers how likely they would be to recommend the company to others."

"By focusing on improving their customer experience, companies can significantly improve their Net Promoter Score - which is strongly associated with better growth outcomes," he said.

Mr Roberts said he had surveyed 1501 consumers across five industry sectors - property insurance, banking, mobile networks, online shopping, and health insurance.

"Widely recognised as one of the most accurate measures of customer loyalty, the Net Promoter Score is used by many major organisations including GE, Microsoft, Paypal, Phillips, Sony, American Express, and The Harvard Business Review."

"It's popularity is largely due to the fact that it has proven itself to be an excellent predictor of business growth."

"In general, Australian brands across the five categories performed badly with only 7 out of 31 achieving a positive score.

"Only two brands - APIA and Bendigo Bank - achieved world-class scores."

"These results strongly suggest that many Australian businesses still have huge potential to grow even in a shrinking economy"

"Bendigo Bank blitzed the banking sector coming in way ahead of giants Commonwealth Bank and National Australia Bank."

"The survey also put home grown online retailer Oztion ahead of international brands eBay and Amazon."

The other category winners included APIA in the property insurance industry, Virgin Mobile in mobile networks and HBF in health insurance.

Mr Roberts said there has never been a more critical time for organisations to go back to basics and focus on the customer.

"In tough times customer loyalty is vital - and everyone knows word of mouth is the most effective and trusted sales and marketing channel available to business."

"Even if overall demand in a category decreases, organisations can still take a leadership role and ensure they position themselves strongly for the future," he said.

"Customer focus can sometimes seem to be nothing more than courtesy and being nice," he said. "The reality is that in the current environment, customer focus is an economic necessity."

The full report outlining scores, key findings by industry, and identifying the drivers of recommendation behaviour is available at Engaged Marketing (http://www. engagedmarketing. com. au)

For Further Media Information Contact :
Chris Roberts, Director, Engaged Marketing
Phone: 61-7-31681015

About Engaged Marketing :
Engaged Marketing is a strategic marketing consultancy based in Brisbane that helps businesses grow by developing fresh customer, marketing and organisational strategies.
Engaged Marketing is an approved Net Promoter Score® Loyalty Partner.
Chris Roberts is an Industry Fellow at the University of Queensland, Australia.

Net Promoter, NPS, and Net Promoter Score are trademarks of Satmetrix Systems, Inc., Bain & Company, and Fred Reichheld.

###

C&C Security Systems, LLC Releases a Portable Security System to Reduce the $1 Billion Annual Theft in the Construction Industry

2011-05-31T08:34:00.000-07:00

C&C Security Systems, LLC Releases a Portable Security System to Reduce the $1 Billion Annual Theft in the Construction Industry

General contractors and custom home builders lose over a billion dollars each year to theft and vandalism. Copper, appliances, HVAC, lumber, tools and heavy equipment - nothing is secure from theft on a construction site. C&C Security Systems has developed JeSS™, a portable security system comprised of Access Control, CCTV, Time and Attendance, Intrusion Detection, Fire and more to meet this need.

Camp Hill, PA (PRWEB) May 21, 2009

General contractors and custom home builders lose over a billion dollars each year to theft and vandalism. Contractors and custom home builders routinely face the loss of tools, construction materials, even heavy equipment and the delays these losses cause. C&C Security Systems, LLC of Camp Hill, PA has developed JeSS, a portable security system for the construction industry to easily increase security on the job site.

Construction site losses come from internal and external theft, vandalism committed by radical environmental groups, and from arson. "Theft claims and other losses on construction sites can cause insurance rates to increase dramatically," said Bob Creason of Christian Baker Insurance in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania. "Most insurance companies will offer discounts for having on-site security such as the JeSS system being offered by C&C Security."

"Several contractors came to us looking for a solution," said Steve Chianos, President of C&C Security. "They asked us for a user-friendly security system that could be moved from one job site to the next. The plug and play design of JeSS, makes it easy for anyone to install and use. There is no need to learn the complex wiring diagrams associated with most security systems."

The JeSS-Jobsite Secure System is a modular security system - the customer can choose the features that best suit their needs. The basic JeSS system includes CCTV with 8 or 16 cameras, access control to secure 4 doors and can expand to 32 doors, time and attendance tracking, intrusion and fire detection with a cell phone dialer to alert local authorities and the project manager.

To download the JeSS white paper and for additional information:
(http://www. cc-security. com/jobsite-security. php? source=pr052009 (http://www. cc-security. com/jobsite-security. php? source=pr052009))

About C&C Security Systems, LLC
C&C Security is a security system integrator located in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania. The C&C Security staff has over 40 years of experience in the security industry. C&C Security develops specialized security products, expanding on the application of access control and CCTV systems. To learn more about C&C Security, visit the web site:
(http://www. cc-security. com/index. php? source=pr052009 (http://www. cc-security. com/index. php? source=pr052009)).

Contact:
Steve Chianos, President
C&C Security Systems, LLC
888-442-2301 ext 701
717-574-9832
Www. cc-security. com

###

Your Web Site May Be Broadcasting, ÂWe DonÂt Really Care,Â Says Usability Psychologist Susan Weinschenk, Threatening Your OrganizationÂs Survival

2011-05-31T08:26:00.000-07:00

Your Web Site May Be Broadcasting, ÂWe DonÂt Really Care,Â Says Usability Psychologist Susan Weinschenk, Threatening Your OrganizationÂs Survival

When money gets tight in corporate budgets, recessions hit, and people get laid off, making computers and web sites more usable is one of the first things to go out the window. The official reason given is: There isnÂt money to spend on that right now.

(PRWEB) June 19, 2002

For: Weinschenk Consulting, PO Box 226, Edgar, WI 54426.

Contact: Susan Weinschenk, (800) 236-2599, susan@weinschenk. com.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Your Web Site May Be Broadcasting, ÂWe DonÂt Really Care,Â Says

Usability Psychologist Susan Weinschenk, Threatening Your OrganizationÂs Survival

Edgar, WI - When money gets tight in corporate budgets, recessions hit, and people get laid off, making computers and web sites more usable is one of the first things to go out the window. The official reason given is: There isnÂt money to spend on that right now.

ÂReturn on investment and bottom lineÂ those are handy terms to use when you werenÂt really committed to something in the first place, and now need a convenient reason to ditch it,Â contends Susan Weinschenk, Ph. D., a psychologist who studies humansÂ interactions with technology. ÂWe are seeing businesses put on hold their efforts to make technology more usable. This is exactly the opposite of what should be done in tough times. The companies that thrive when customers and stockholders get skittish exist not only to make money, but also to make a difference.Â

By Âmaking a difference,Â Weinschenk means that companies need to reaffirm as a basic purpose how they improve life for customers. This might involve making peopleÂs feet more comfortable by manufacturing great shoes, helping people emerge from a crisis with superior insurance products and services, providing medical technology to people who are ill, or furnishing power that fuels homes and businesses and therefore fuels peopleÂs dreams.

ÂIf computers, intranets and web sites are hard to use, this sends a message to the people who have to use them that technology is more important than human beings,Â says Weinschenk, who was voted one of the Top 100 Women in Computers in Open Computing Magazine. ÂIt says, we donÂt see you as a living, breathing person with hopes, goals and dreams but as an inanimate cog in our business plan. More and more, employees and customers recoil from that attitude. ThereÂs more to business than cold, hard profit. Understanding your true business purpose and showing human consideration in your technology are key to riding out a rough economy and staying strong.Â

For organizations wishing to demonstrate their concern for stressed-out web site and computer users, Weinschenk Consulting offers a free Online Usability checklist at

Http://www. weinschenk. com/tools/online_checklist. asp (http://www. weinschenk. com/tools/online_checklist. asp).

The Co-operative Bank donates £28,000 to community groups across the UK

2011-05-28T09:46:00.000-07:00

The Co-operative Bank donates £28,000 to community groups across the UK

The Co-operative Bank is donating £28,358 to help community groups across the UK carry on making a positive difference, through its Community Directplus account.

London, UK (PRWEB) June 21, 2009

The Co-operative Bank is donating £28,358 to help community groups across the UK carry on making a positive difference, through its Community Directplus account.

The Community Directplus account gives community groups a bank account with free banking, with the added bonus of being able to gain additional financial support for their community projects.

As a benefit of the account, The Customer Donation Fund makes twice yearly donations to Community Directplus customers. Since the account was launched in 2003, it has given over £220,000 to 266 groups that undertake important work within local communities.

The projects which will benefit from funding include, a project to build a wildlife garden in a school, the building of a skate park, the setting up of a parent and toddler group and the purchasing of computer equipment to help an isolated community.

John Barker, Head of Business Banking at The Co-operative Bank comments: "In the difficult economic times we have had over the past year, these donations will really help to support community groups across the UK to fund projects that reach to the heart of their communities."

At The Co-operative Bank community involvement is an integral part of the business and the Customer Donation fund helps us to support other organisations that carry out exemplary work at a local level.

For further information contact:
Alejandra Solis / Catherine Laycock
The Co-operative Financial Services Press Office
Tel: 0161 903 3808 / 3833
Fax: 0161 903 2751
E-mail : alejandra. solis @ cfs. coop / catherine. laycock @ cfs. coop

Notes to editors:

ISDN facilities are available for broadcast media interviews.

Case studies available on request

Community Directplus is the leading bank account for community organizations, charities and social groups. In addition to providing the opportunity to apply for financial support via the customer donation fund, other benefits include free banking, credit interest on balances over £2,000 and a choice of easy ways to manage the account, from online and telephone to branch and the Post Office.

More information on The Co-operative Bank Community Direct plus Account can be found at http://www. co-operativebank. co. uk (http://www. co-operativebank. co. uk)

The Co-operative Financial Services is part of The Co-operative Group, which is the world's largest consumer co-operative with over 3 million members. CFS currently has 5.5m customers and employs over 8,000 staff. It has 116 retail and corporate branches/centres and over 1,000 face to face financial advisers. It has £38bn of assets under management across its retail and corporate business areas. Including the Co-operative insurance, leading home insurance (http://www. co-operativeinsurance. co. uk/home) and car insurance (http://www. co-operativeinsurance. co. uk/car) providers.

###

Non-savers? Most Cite Bills, Medical Expenses as Barriers

2011-05-26T02:50:00.000-07:00

Non-savers? Most Cite Bills, Medical Expenses as Barriers

For an estimated 44 million U. S. employees, paying the bills, keeping up with the high cost of medical care and lack of an employer-sponsored retirement savings plan are some of the main reasons they are not saving for retirement, according to a report from LIMRA International.

Windsor, Conn. (Vocus) May 22, 2007

Non-savers often have health insurance and other benefits offered through their employers - 71 percent said health insurance was available. Eight in 10 use the health/medical benefit when offered, often sacrificing in other areas to cover the cost of benefits. But fewer than half of non-savers' employers offer a defined contribution plan, such as a 401(k), to help employees save for retirement.

"These are largely low to middle-income earners, working full-time, who are struggling financially," said Sally Bryck, co-author of Non-savers: Why Aren't They Saving for Retirement? "They want to save, they know they need to save, but they really need help."

"Americans have a huge appetite for costly consumer goods, but that's not necessarily the problem for many people," said Kathleen Rook, co-author. "In fact, we estimate that about four in 10 non-savers have cut their discretionary spending to make ends meet and still find it hard to save."

With the U. S. savings rate currently at a 70-year low, LIMRA re-examined data from a comprehensive 2005 study on employee benefits. LIMRA surveyed 2,000 employees to investigate their attitudes toward employee benefits in general, and the retirement plans offered by their employers.

In the survey, bills, health expenses, mortgage payments and education costs were the reasons most cited (http://www. limra. com/pressroom/databank/nonsavers0407.pdf) for not being able to save.

Size of employer, availability of an employer-sponsored defined contribution plan, and level of education were also important factors. Six in 10 non-savers work at small companies of fewer than 100 employees. Some 55 percent don't have access to a retirement savings plan at work, and 80 percent of non-savers have a high-school education or lower.

"We should not be too quick to assume that people don't know or care about saving for retirement," Bryck said. "Nearly six in 10 non-savers said they are extremely concerned about having enough money for their retirements, and about the same number are worried about the future of Social Security."

When asked how much of their income they think they should be saving for retirement, 97 percent of non-savers said at least 10 percent, and one-third believed they should be saving 20 percent. Asked about expected sources of retirement income, 87 percent said Social Security, 37 percent said employer-sponsored defined contribution plans, 25 percent said personal savings and 18 percent said employer pension plans. Fourteen percent said the lottery.

Find more information about retirement at Retirement Planning - It's Everyone's Job (http://www. limra. com/pressroom/pressmaterials/tentips. aspx), a LIMRA web page with links to more resources.

About LIMRA International
LIMRA International is a worldwide research, consulting and performance improvement organization that helps more than 800 insurance and financial services companies in 60 countries increase their marketing and distribution effectiveness. Visit LIMRA International at www. limra. com.

CONTACT:
Howard S. Drescher, (860) 285-7875
Catherine Theroux, (860) 285-7787

LIMRA International seeks to send relevant news to journalists who cover the life insurance and financial services industries. If you do not wish to receive this information, please reply to this email and ask to be removed from further distributions.

###

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Tanya M. Pavlik Forms New Firm A-lign™ -- Breathing Energy and Effectiveness in the Compliance Auditing Industry

Meridian Management Announces New Tuition Refund Insurance Product

Armchair Millionaire Community Bulletin: Shopping for a Mortgage - Don't Borrow Trouble

Correct Travel Medical Insurance a necessity for travel to specific countries

Remnants of the Mafia in Galveston Texas

SureCircle Announces Automated Service for Employer Self-Funded Dental Plan Administration

Newly Discovered Texas Poet Creates Sensation Across United States

Medical Transcription in the Era of Electronic Medical Records

National Equipment Register (NER) Releases 2004 Equipment Theft Report

Who on Earth Would 'Love' Travel Insurance?!?

CollegeInfoUSA. com Sees Traffic Rise, Students Turn to Most Convenient, Complete Source for Schools

Irish Inventor Obtains US Patent for an Inexpensive Powder Complement to Water Based Sprinkler Systems

Xtremesoft Announces Beta Release of AppMetricsÂ® for BizTalk Server; New Version Supports Microsoft BizTalk Server 2002 and Microsoft Operations Manager (MOM)

Post Office® Travel Insurance reveals children's top holiday health hazards

Lafayette Breast Center Installs New ImageChecker Â® Computer Aided Detection (CAD) System for Breast Cancer Screening

Your Web Site May Be Broadcasting, ÂWe DonÂt Really Care,Â Says Usability Psychologist Susan Weinschenk, Threatening Your OrganizationÂs Survival

The Co-operative Bank donates £28,000 to community groups across the UK