GoingOn’s Expanded Network Provides Colleges & Universities With an Innovative Platform For Building a Modern, Connected Campus

Denver, CO -- (SBWIRE) -- 06/12/2012 -- GoingOn Networks, Inc. today announced the latest release of the GO Platform, a modern, socially powered campus communications and collaboration environment that allows faculty, students and administrators to more effectively connect, converse and engage across all aspects of their academic life experience.  With this release, GoingOn has significantly enhanced its Virtual Commons, providing users with easier ways to search, share and manage their Facebook-like activity streams, and expanded its powerful Community-building environment with two new modules, GO Conversation and GO Channels.  These new additions to the GoingOn academic social network enable users to dynamically create collaborative spaces to connect with fellow students, cohorts and faculty members within minutes, as they extend the academic experience beyond the course and the confines of a classroom.

CEO Jon Corshen will showcase the platform's new functionality as he discusses current social technology trends in higher education and best practices implemented by several client-schools, including Arizona State University and the University of Pennsylvania, during a web presentation being hosted on June 12 and again on June 19.

"When it comes to sharing resources and collaborating, campus portals are dying a slow death and using email to deliver 'institutionalized SPAM' is not a viable alternative," said Corshen. "To see where it is all going, you need only to look at the modalities used by Facebook, Twitter and others, such as push, share, like, follow, comment and recommend.  GoingOn provides the fastest and easiest way to build an engaging environment that supports these modalities and, more importantly, lays the foundation for a more engaged and connected campus."

The GoingOn academic social network was launched in 2009 as a social classroom platform at the University of Pennsylvania and has evolved to become a much broader, socially powered campus communication network.  It is being deployed at more than 30 of today's top academic institutions.

Features of the latest release include:

Conversation Spaces
Conversations are easy-to-create web spaces that facilitate highly engaging and efficient information sharing and collaboration between as few as two users or as many people as desired. Conversations may be created around school programs, student organizations, study groups, research projects, informal courses or event discourse and debate. GO Conversation spaces combine the power of Facebook-like activity streams with rich content capabilities.

Enhanced Personal Commons
The Personal Commons uses intelligent Facebook-like activity streams to provide users with a private home page and hub for all communication relevant to his/her interests and group memberships.  In this release, the Personal Commons has been enhanced with a new UI design, real-time status updates, sharing and advanced search and filtering.

Email Notifications
Notifications provide a critical engagement functionality in which users are alerted to ongoing network activity pertaining to their group memberships, content and connections. Users may set their preferences for the frequency of notifications, as well as the types of updates that would trigger a notification.

Enhanced Task Management
Enhanced Task Management provides group owners with the ability to create and share tasks with any/all users in the group and to track completion of tasks.

Updates to Site Roles
New site-level roles are being introduced, including Advanced Content Creator, Channel Builder and Community Builder.  The new roles will expand the options available to Site Owners for delegating specific permission sets to any user across the network.

Directory Categories
Categorizing communities, conversations and channels (feeds) will make it easier for users to discover new groups by interest category, or even for filtering their existing membership groups.  Site and Group Administrators will have the ability to create and manage the categories, while Group Managers will have access to choose from the available categories when building or managing their communities.

New Group Status Settings: Active and Inactive
Community Builders, Channel Builders and Group Managers may now control the Active/Inactive state of their groups.  In doing so, access to the group and its content will be blocked to all visitors, including its general members.  Only Administrators and Managers will continue to have access until the 'Active' status is reinstated.

Enhancements to Search
The site Search now has a filter for "Everywhere" and "Here" to provide the user with a way of targeting their search to the local group or the entire site network.  If the user chooses to limit their search to their current group space (Community, Channel or Personal Commons), they simply choose the "Here" filter.

Bulk User Enrollment
Site and Group Administrators can now mass enroll all or any filtered lists of users into one or many groups using the Bulk User Enrollment workflow.  This workflow adds to the other user enrollment options previously available to Administrators and Managers, including the Invitation workflow or the Sub-community member transfers.

Content Management & Administration Updates
Various content management and administration updates have been added to further improve administration efficiency and expand content management options for managers.

For more information about GoingOn Networks or to register for one of the web presentations on June 12 or June 19, visit www.GoingOn.com.

About GoingOn Networks, Inc.
GoingOn provides colleges and universities with an innovative, On-Demand communications and collaboration environment where students, faculty and administrators can more effectively connect, converse and engage across all aspect of their academic life experience.   As the reliance on social and mobile technologies continues to accelerate, institutions are being challenged to create a more modern connected campus, where students and faculty can more easily communicate, share resources and connect with each other, from anywhere and at any time.

The GO Platform allows institutions to build a privately branded academic social network where users can more easily access school-wide information and resources and come together to converse, share ideas and expand their knowledge base.  The GoingOn solution can be easily and quickly deployed without requiring development or technical resources and will grow organically across the campus.  The platform combines an intuitive Personal Virtual Commons with Facebook-like activity streams, self-service tools for building collaborative spaces and integrated academic networking features.  For more information or to learn more about GoingOn, visit www.GoingOn.com.

Contact:
Lindsey Mikal
Communications Strategy Group
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
(303) 433-7020
lmikal@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

SoRewarding merchant members keep 75 percent of deal revenue for life

Denver, CO -- (SBWIRE) -- 06/05/2012 -- Denver-based SoRewarding, a new social network that lets consumers create and request their own deals from area businesses, is reinventing the way group buy deal sites work with merchant partners. In the time it takes to set up a merchant profile page on SoRewarding.com, businesses can begin accepting deals requested by their customers…and keeping 75 percent of the profits.

SoRewarding doesn't impose any pre-negotiated terms or restrictions on deals; instead it allows merchants the freedom to directly accept, reject or counter any deal a customer requests. Merchants can also create and publish custom deals they would like to offer, at any time, in order to best suit their business, and their customer's needs. And, SoRewarding donates five percent of every deal buy to one of more than a dozen local non-profit partners that each consumer can select to support.

SoRewarding merchant partners benefit from the ability to:

Create and publish deals at their point of need.
- No more time spent working with sales representatives from a thousand different deal companies. Merchants can create customized deals that benefit their business and customers the most.

Receive deal requests automatically.
- Requests from paying customers are sent directly and immediately to the business which can then accept, reject, or counter-offer with the click of a button from a mobile device or at SoRewarding.com.

Enjoy new customers.
- SoRewarding connects businesses with local customers, and provides a forum for direct social networking; building loyalty and keeping them coming back again and again.

Get paid.
- Once a merchant page is created at SoRewarding, there are no other upfront conditions, contracts or terms to begin offering and accepting deals. On the day a deal runs, buyers purchase the deal directly and the merchant receives payment just a few days later.

Connect with the community.
- Each time a deal is purchased, SoRewarding donates to a local non-profit. The business offering the deal will receive recognition for making these donations possible and gain exposure among the supporters of different charity organizations and the community as a whole.

SoRewarding is currently an invitation-only network. Consumers, merchants and non-profits interested in joining should visit http://www.SoRewarding.com to request an invitation.

About SoRewarding
SoRewarding is your social marketplace for creating offers in your community while supporting the causes you love. SoRewarding enables consumers to use the power of group buying to get discounts on the things they actually want, without being inundated with offers they don't need.

Contact:
Marion Mariathasan
SoRewarding CEO
marion.m@soreawarding.com
http://www.SoRewarding.com

About SoRewarding, LLC
Established in 2011, the founders of SoRewarding came from a technology startup that created the Consumer Driven Deals (CDD) platform. The team, burned out by all the unwanted "deals" they were receiving, created the CDD platform to empower consumers and merchants while creating a simple way to give back.

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

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Learning House fulfills university’s goals of creating its own faculty-developed online courses and addressing Maryland’s workforce needs

Denver, CO -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/31/2012 -- The Learning House, Inc., an online education solutions partner that helps colleges and universities develop and grow high-quality online degree programs and courses, announced today that Towson University's Center for Professional Studies (CPS) has selected Learning House to help expand its online continuing education course offerings. CPS offers programs that focus on meeting identified workforce shortages for the region and address skill gaps and career advancement needs.

Towson University has a robust set of existing continuing education programs, but CPS identified a need to develop self-paced, industry-driven, professional certification programs that leverage the expertise of the University's faculty.

"We wanted to develop our own courses and truly control the content, deployment and quality of the curriculum," said Jeff Beeson, Director of the Center for Professional Studies at Towson University. "We selected Learning House because they represented what we needed—a partner that could help us turn classroom curriculum into dynamic online courses that engage non-campus-based learners. Their dedicated team approach is a plus because we feel very supported. Additionally, the assurance that Learning House can help with all our online education needs from course design and development to marketing, as well as provide IT and tech support is a true value add."

Together, Learning House and CPS will create workforce and professional certification courses online that align with Towson's core academic mission of business, IT and the health professions. The first courses will include a project management professional (PMP) certification course, an A+/Net+ certification course and a Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) course with a health information supplement. All of these courses will directly address workforce needs in Maryland.

"Developing online courses takes a deep understanding of both the subject matter and the technology. A big mistake institutions often make is simply taking existing curricula and posting it online using a simple learning management system. Towson University's CPS team understands that reaching online learners takes something more, and we are excited to work with them to expand their professional certification courses," said Dr. David Clinefelter, Chief Academic Officer at Learning House. "Having the involvement of faculty is critical to the way we develop online courses. We plan to work closely with the faculty at Towson University to ensure they have the support they want to build engaging courses and the professional development they need to help their students achieve success."

Learning House collaborates with schools that have various levels of online education experience to achieve each institution's unique goals and create a positive student experience. For more information about how Learning House works with institutions to achieve their online education goals, visit http://www.learninghouse.com.

About The Learning House, Inc.
The Learning House, Inc. is an online education solutions partner that helps colleges and universities develop and grow high-quality online degree programs and courses. Partnering with more than 100 colleges and universities, Learning House offers a business model that enables institutions to efficiently and affordably achieve their online education goals. Learning House provides a comprehensive solution to success, including curriculum development and management, faculty training and professional development, marketing and lead generation, admissions and enrollment management, student retention, 24/7 technical support, learning management systems, and management and consultation.

About Towson University (http://www.towson.edu)
Founded in 1866, Towson University is recognized among the nation's best regional public universities, offering more than 100 bachelor's, master's and doctoral degree programs in the liberal arts and sciences, and applied professional fields. With more than 21,000 students, Towson University is the second-largest public university in Maryland. As a metropolitan university, Towson combines research-based learning with practical application. Our many interdisciplinary partnerships with public and private organizations throughout Maryland provide opportunities for research, internships and jobs. Towson University is a founding member of the Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities (CUMU).

Contact:
Lindsey Mikal
Communications Strategy Group
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
303-433-7020
lmikal@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Webinar to be held on May 21; Expert and veteran Retired Colonel James Martin to discuss strategies military families can use to ensure the four pillars of well-being are part of their lives

Denver, CO -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/30/2012 -- SalutetoSpouses.com today announced the next installation in its Salute to Homecoming webinar series, "Is it Supposed to be Like This?" focusing on topics surrounding the family transition that happens after a deployed service member returns home. The webinar, titled "Is it Supposed to be Like This: Coping with the Change, Stress and Chaos of Military Life," will be held on May 21 at 11 a.m. EDT and will highlight coping strategies military spouses can use to navigate the ups and downs of military life. The webinar is offered for free for all military spouses and their families.

The webinar will be led by combat veteran and Retired Army Colonel James (Jim) Martin. Colonel Martin spent 26 years in the Army Medical Department and is a licensed independent clinical social worker and a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work and has more than 40 years of professional social work practice. As a combat veteran Colonel Martin is very in tune with the unique issues military families face. Additionally, both during his active and duty and since his retirement, he has served in many roles that address mental health issues among members of the military and their families. Some of his published work includes serving as one of the primary authors of "What We Know About Army Families: 2007 Update" (Technical Report & Video), contributing to the development of the "Army Chief of Staff's White Paper on Army Families" and editing "The Gulf War and Mental Health: A Comprehensive Guide" (Praeger, 1996).

"Military life is challenging and a unique experience for every family. The well-being of military family members is especially challenged during times of transition, such as while PCS-ing and during deployment and reintegration because the change can often alter routines making even every day tasks seem impossible," said Colonel Martin. "Addressing the four pillars of well-being: exercise, diet, managing stress and building social connections, is important for all individuals and especially for military families whose lives are in constant motion. Creating a plan that encompasses all four pillars will help spouses, and others, manage those more hectic moments of military life."

The webinar is offered for free by SalutetoSpouses.com. Military spouses interested in attending are invited to register at http://www.salutetospouses.com/webinars.

SalutetoSpouses.com is an online resource edited by military spouses for military spouses that features personal stories, advice, tool and tips. The site was launched in 2011 as a complement to Bryant & Stratton College Online's Salute to Spouses Scholarship, which provides eligible spouses up to $6,000 for online degree programs offered by Bryant & Stratton College Online. All Salute to Spouses Scholarship recipients must meet Bryant & Stratton College scholarship guidelines to receive the full award. In 2012, SalutetoSpouses.com started the Salute to Homecoming campaign in order to provide specific resources around navigating the highs and lows of military homecoming and reintegration.

As a member of the Service Members Opportunities College (SOC) consortium*, Bryant & Stratton College Online adheres to the SOC principles for service members and their families. They are also an approved institution for the training of U.S. veterans and their family in accordance with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Bryant & Stratton College Online participates and accepts transfers from CLEP, DANTES, ECE and other SOC Colleges. In recognition of the schools support of veteran and military students, G.I. Jobs Magazine named Bryant & Stratton College Online a Military Friendly School for 2012.

The Bryant & Stratton College-Virginia Beach campus is also a SOCNAV and SOCAD consortium member.

About SalutetoSpouses.com
SalutetoSpouses.com is a go-to resource for education and career news for military spouses. Sponsored by the Bryant & Stratton College Online's military relations department, SalutetoSpouses.com was launched as a complement to Bryant & Stratton College Online's Salute to Scholarship, which provides eligible spouses up to $6,000 for online degree programs offered by Bryant & Stratton College Online. The articles, tips, advice columns and personal accounts on SalutetoSpouses.com uniquely support the needs of military spouses because they are created and edited by military spouses. For more information please visit http://www.salutetospouses.com.

About Bryant & Stratton College Online
Bryant & Stratton College is a private career college delivering outcomes based education and training through a flexible, contemporary curriculum in a personalized environment.  The College is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, which is an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, and has locations in New York, Ohio, Virginia and Wisconsin, as well as an Online Education division, and a Professional Skill Center. For over 155 years, Bryant & Stratton College has been providing real world education leading to bachelor's and associate's degrees and professional certificates. Bryant & Stratton College Online offers five online bachelor's degree programs, eleven online associate's degree programs and eleven online certificate programs in a variety of fields including business, criminal justice, financial services, healthcare, human resources and information technology. Some online programs are not yet available in all states. For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of graduates and other important information, please visit www.bryantstratton.edu/disclosures.  General information about Bryant & Stratton College and its online degrees can also be found at www.online.bryantstratton.edu.

Contact:
Kavitha Thimmaiah
Communications Strategy Group
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
(303) 433-7020
kthimmaiah@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Innova Biosciences, inventor of 'Lightning-Link', the world’s easiest to use antibody labelling technology, is pleased to announce it has been awarded a development of prototype grant circa £210,000 by the Technology Strategy Board

Stamford, Lincolnshire -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/30/2012 -- Innova Biosciences (Cambridge, UK), inventor of 'Lightning-Link®', the world's easiest to use antibody labelling technology, is pleased to announce it has been awarded a development of prototype grant circa £210,000 by the Technology Strategy Board, with matched company funding of approximately £250,000, to develop novel nanoparticle products for diagnostics applications.

The growing diagnostic market requires nanoparticles that have been linked to antibodies, but the methods for creating these hybrid reagents are complex. The Technology Strategy Board grant, awarded through its Smart programme, will allow Innova to develop high quality reagents using much simpler linking technologies. The use of nanoparticles in life sciences, including diagnostics, is a high value sector and the award of the grant will extend Innova's penetration into this industry.

Nick Gee (CEO of Innova Biosciences) comments 'The award of the grant in such a competitive environment underlines Innova's excellent track record and its on-going commitment to innovation. We expect that the products and technologies emerging from this new programme will transform the way in which nanoparticle reagents are created in the future.'

About Innova Biosciences Limited
Innova Biosciences is a growing, dynamic business based in Cambridge, UK. At the core of Innova's business are Lightning-Link® and InnovaCoat™ technologies that simplify the production of antibody-based reagents. The expanding Lightning-Link® and InnovaCoat™ portfolio is sold to research laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology companies and diagnostic companies worldwide.

Innova Biosciences would like to invite anyone with an interest in antibody labeling or gold nanoparticles to please visit the website for more information, please see http://www.innovabiosciences.com

About the Technology Strategy Board
The Technology Strategy Board is the UK's innovation agency, working to create economic growth by ensuring that the UK is a global leader in innovation. Sponsored by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS), the Technology Strategy Board brings together business, research and the public sector, supporting and accelerating the development of innovative products and services to meet market needs, tackle major societal challenges and help build the future economy. For more information please visit http://www.innovateuk.org

Managed by the Technology Strategy Board, the Smart scheme offers funding to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to engage in R&D projects in the strategically important areas of science, engineering and technology, from which successful new products, processes and services could emerge.

http://www.innovateuk.org/deliveringinnovation/smart.ashx

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

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Webinar will be held on May 23 and will provide an overview of what types of careers students can pursue with their online human resources degrees

Denver, CO -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/30/2012 -- Bryant & Stratton College Online, a leader in online associate's degree programs, will host a free webinar for current students enrolled in a human resources degree online or those who are interested in exploring a career in human resources. The webinar, titled "What Does an HR Department Do Exactly?" will be held on Wednesday, May 23, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. EDT. The webinar will cover the wide variety of functions conducted by a human resources department.

Bryant & Stratton College Online Instructor Andrew Beyer will lead the webinar. Mr. Beyer has over 15 years of experience in the field of human resources and has served in both the private and retail sectors.

"Human resources is an exciting, dynamic field in which professionals have the opportunity to take on many roles. The assumption is that HR professionals are in an office only to enforce dress codes, celebrate birthdays and process hiring paperwork, but they do much, much more," said Beyer. "An HR department can impact a businesses goals and direction significantly because it is an integral part of operations. This webinar will highlight the many hats HR professionals have to wear and provide insight into the career as a whole."

The webinar will cover topics such as: employment & recruiting, training & development, compensation, benefits, employee services, employee & community relations, personnel records, health & safety, and strategic planning. More specifically, Mr. Beyer will address HR issues like productivity enhancement, incentive pay, profit sharing, outplacement services, health & wellness and more. For current students the overview will provide a look at what to expect in a human resources career and give a general background of the field for students interested in enrolling in human resources courses online.

Current and prospective students interested in learning more about a career in HR are invited to register for the free webinar at http://online.bryantstratton.edu/webinar/. For those unable to attend, a recorded version of the webinar as well as highlights from the webinar will be available to download at http://onlineblog.bryantstratton.edu/ after May 23.

Bryant & Stratton College was founded in 1854 and is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. For more information about Bryant & Stratton College and its online degree programs, visit http://www.bryantstratton.edu/Online-Learning.aspx.

About Bryant & Stratton College Online
Bryant & Stratton College is a private career college delivering outcomes based education and training through a flexible, contemporary curriculum in a personalized environment.  The College is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, which is an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, and has locations in New York, Ohio, Virginia and Wisconsin, as well as an Online Education division, and a Professional Skill Center. For over 155 years, Bryant & Stratton College has been providing real world education leading to bachelor's and associate's degrees and professional certificates. Bryant & Stratton College Online offers five online bachelor's degree programs, eleven online associate's degree programs and eleven online certificate programs in a variety of fields including business, criminal justice, financial services, healthcare, human resources and information technology. Some online programs are not yet available in all states. For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of graduates and other important information, please visit http://www.bryantstratton.edu/disclosures.  General information about Bryant & Stratton College and its online degrees can also be found at http://www.online.bryantstratton.edu.

Contact:
Kavitha Thimmaiah
Communications Strategy Group
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
(303) 433-7020
kthimmaiah@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Metrolist Data Show Supply And Demand Beginning To Intersect In One Of Nation’s Bellwether Metro Areas

Denver, CO -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/28/2012 -- New data from Metrolist®, the largest real estate multiple listing service (MLS) serving Colorado real estate agents, show another uptick in Denver Metro area home prices as inventories hit their lowest level in three years.

According to Metrolist, the provider of REcolorado.com, the average sales price for the Denver residential market jumped another 6% in April to $275,241. Metrolist's April data show notable increases in every important component, including sales pending contracts, sales under contract, and sales for single family homes, while days on market (DOM) continue to shrink.

According to Kirby Slunaker, Metrolist's President and CEO, the uptick in average sales price last month may be the start of an upward trend in the metro Denver market.

"We continue to see tight inventory in the market, which means there are about two to three months of available supply," said Mr. Slunaker. "With these tight inventory levels, I wouldn't be surprised to see further price appreciation into this summer's buying season."

Compared to April last year, the average price for a single-family residence in the Denver metro area is 11% higher, while the number of homes for sale is down by 43%.

As steadily declining inventory pushes prices higher, buyers who must make a purchase decision should expect to be aggressive and ready to make multiple offers. Sellers, meanwhile, need to be ready to evaluate multiple offers with their Realtor®.

Metrolist launched REcolorado.com earlier this year as a way to give buyers, sellers, and brokers the ability to prepare for a fast-moving market this summer The consumer-friendly search engine incorporates a variety of tools to help in the home buying process, including enhanced listing information with access to school and neighborhood data. REcolorado.com also helps interested homebuyers and sellers find agents who specialize in their market.

"We're seeing product that is move-in ready and in tip-top shape moving quickly," says Mr. Slunaker. "We're urging all potential buyers and sellers to gear up right now for a competitive marketplace."

About Metrolist
Metrolist is the largest MLS in the state of Colorado, supporting the largest network of Realtors® with the most comprehensive database of real property listings throughout the Front Range. Realtor-owned since 1984, Metrolist provides leading technology solutions to real estate agents and brokers to better serve buyers and sellers. More information about Metrolist is available at www.metrolist.com.

Contact:
Andra Lewis
CSG PR
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
480-250-3447
Alewis@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Organization Brings Awareness to the Alarming Facts of an Aging Workforce

Denver, CO -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/24/2012 -- The Center for Productive Longevity (CPL), which serves as the bridge between people 55 and older and the opportunities that enable them to continue in productive activities, today described "The 3 Important Ways to Defuse the Ticking Time Bomb of our Aging Workforce". With 77 million people in the United States 55 and older, we are at a tipping point: we can either watch them sit on the sidelines, drawing from unsustainable entitlement programs and the general economy, or we can enable this growing population segment to continue working and contribute to the country's economic growth and prosperity.

Recent surveys by AARP indicate that 80 percent of the Baby Boomers intend to continue working after leaving their regular career jobs, more than half on less than a full-time basis. Many need or want the additional income, particularly because of their wealth reduction from the recession in 2001 and the global economic crisis that began in the U.S. in late 2007. Other reasons to continue working include the desire to maintain cognitive skills, continue adding value, and remain socially connected.

"We have been aware of this ticking time bomb for years without taking effective action. Now it's really getting louder with the growing retirement of Baby Boomers at the rate of 4.2 million each year from 2011 through 2029, compounded by high unemployment and low economic growth for the foreseeable future," says William Zinke, 85, founder and president of CPL. "We can defuse this time bomb by creating a wave of entrepreneurship across the country and stimulating employers to take a more flexible approach in providing employment opportunities for older workers."

According to CPL, we can defuse the ticking time bomb of our aging workforce in three important ways:

1.Baby Boomer Entrepreneurship
Create awareness and understanding among the Baby Boomers about the benefits and opportunities of creating their own businesses. Entrepreneurship remains a critical factor in the country's economic growth and vitality, with a spirit of pioneering and self-reliance still a part of America's DNA.

2.Flexible Workplace Options
Stimulate employers to develop phased retirement programs and other flexible workplace options that will retain and attract Baby Boomers 55 and older who want to continue working but on a part-time basis. A movement is developing in this direction, but a recent survey by Harris Interactive indicates that only 24 percent of Fortune 1000 companies provide such options.

3.Greater Talent Pool Utilization
The reality is that America has a large and growing talent pool of workers 55 and older with experience, expertise, seasoned judgment and proven performance (EESP). Research shows that older workers have a higher level of commitment, reliability and motivation; have better overall skills and abilities than younger workers; and have much lower absenteeism and turnover. This talent pool must be tapped to a substantially greater degree.

"Economic growth and our standard of living may be reduced if older workers are not provided with opportunities to continue working, yet there is no real recognition of the need to do so," adds Zinke. "It is CPL's purpose to change the national mindset about aging and retirement."

One way CPL is highlighting the benefits of senior entrepreneurship is by organizing a series of four meetings titled "Spotlight on Entrepreneurship Opportunities for Baby Boomers". The first meeting was held at the Kauffman Foundation in Kansas City, MO, the focal point for entrepreneurship in America, on March 27 with almost 100 participants and excellent feedback. The next three meetings will be held at Babson College in Wellesley, MA on September 14, Northwestern University/Kellogg School of Business in Chicago on October 11, and the University of Denver on November 15. To register, visit http://www.ctrpl.org/entrepreneurship-meeting/overview.

Media Contacts:
Jenny Foust or Alicia Hassinger
Communications Strategy Group
303.433.7020
jfoust@csg-pr.com or ahassinger@csg-pr.com

Company Contacts:
William K. Zinke or James R. Hooks
Center for Productive Longevity
303.499.3939
wzinke@ctrpl.org or jhooks@ctrpl.org

About the Center for Productive Longevity
The mission of CPL is to be the bridge between people 55 and older and their engagement in productive activities, paid and volunteer, where they are qualified and ready to continue adding value. It is imperative that we recognize the value added by an aging workforce. Visit ctrpl.org for more information. Follow the Center for Productive Longevity on Facebook at facebook.com/CTRPL.

Contact:
Alicia Hassinger
Communications Strategy Group
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
303.433.7020
ahassinger@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Navratilova joins distinguished panel of health, fitness and longevity experts at exclusive event specifically designed to help people learn how to live longer and better

Denver, CO -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/21/2012 -- Tennis legend Martina Navratilova will share her unparalleled health and fitness expertise as the keynote speaker at Living at Your Peak (www.livingatyourpeak.org), the Rocky Mountain region's premier interactive wellness experience, the Vail Symposium announced today. The inaugural event, to be held September 13-15, 2012, in Vail, Colo., is the nation's only gathering designed to help health-conscious individuals and influencers discover how to live longer, better and impact the wellbeing of their world.

"You don't need to be an elite athlete to be dedicated to wellness; anyone – at any age – can make a commitment to be fit and healthy," said Navratilova. "As AARP's Health and Fitness Ambassador, I have dedicated my time to helping those of us who are 50+ learn to lead healthy, active lives, and I am thrilled to be part of an event that is focused on teaching everyone health, fitness and longevity – from elite athletes to weekend warriors to individuals just beginning their journey to wellness."

Navratilova is widely considered to be the greatest women's tennis player in the history of the sport. Over the course of a career that spanned an amazing four decades, she amassed an unmatched number of professional records. She won 59 grand slam titles, including a record nine Wimbledon singles championships. Still in phenomenal shape on the verge of 50, she became the oldest player to ever win a grand slam title before retiring in 2006.

In addition to her work on the tennis court, Navratilova is a compelling advocate for active living and aggressive goal setting. Her book, Shape Your Self, is a guide to personal fitness and healthy living. She has motivated thousands to live healthier lifestyles by taking simple steps to a better life. She also serves as the health and fitness ambassador for AARP, in an alliance created to help AARP's millions of members lead active, healthy lives.

"Martina Navratilova is not only a legend in the tennis world, she is also an inspiration to anyone with a commitment to lifelong wellness," said Jamie Stone, Living at Your Peak event champion and a board member of the Vail Symposium. "Her presence at Living at Your Peak elevates this event to the next level, enabling our guests to have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to interact with a world-class health and fitness expert."

Living at Your Peak is an interactive health, fitness and longevity experience offering unparalleled access to accomplished world champions; internationally recognized trainers, coaches, researchers and doctors; top chefs, nutritionists and world-class restaurants; and peer networking opportunities. Living at Your Peak sessions will offer interactive components to engage guests beyond a traditional presentation environment. Jenna Wolfe, co-anchor of NBC News' Sunday TODAY show, will emcee the event.

Registration is $1,000 until June 30 and $1,200 beginning July 1, and includes priority access to event sessions, event coordination with a personal concierge, exclusive access to VIP events and gourmet meals prepared by Vail's internationally renowned chefs. Spouse passes are $300 and individual session fees start at $50 per session.

The event is organized by the Vail Symposium, a grassroots, non-profit organization providing thought-provoking, diverse and affordable educational programs to the Vail Valley community. Event sponsors include Vail Valley Medical Center, HealthONE, the Town of Vail, The Steadman Clinic, Vail Summit Orthopedics, Triumph Development, the Vail Daily, Antlers at Vail, Vitality Center, Udi's, The Biegler Foundation, Colorado Access and Wendy and Paul Raether.

For more information about Living at Your Peak or to register, please visit www.livingatyourpeak.org.

About Living at Your Peak
Living at Your Peak is a two-and-a-half day summit designed to help individuals learn how to live longer, better and influence positive change in the wellbeing of the world around them. The event is designed to promote lifelong health and fitness through customized experiences in an intimate setting. Program presenters are proven experts and peak performers in the fields of fitness, nutrition, cognitive and emotional wellbeing, preventive medicine and cutting-edge research. Living at Your Peak is organized by the Vail Symposium. For more information, please visit www.livingatyourpeak.org, like us on Facebook at facebook.com/LivingatYourPeak, follow us on twitter at @LivingaturPeak or follow us on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/living-at-your-peak.

About the Vail Symposium
The Vail Symposium is a grassroots, non-profit organization that has been part of the life and history of Vail since 1971. Its mission is to provide educational programs for the Vail Valley community that are thought-provoking, diverse and affordable. A (501)(c)(3) non-profit organization, the Symposium is almost entirely donor-funded. For more information, please visit www.vailsymposium.org.

Contact:
Shannon Fern
Communications Strategy Group
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
303.433.7020
sfern@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

With Veteran Population on the Rise, Ecotech Seeks to Understand the Educational and Emotional Needs of Military Students

Denver, CO -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/21/2012 -- Ecotech Institute, the first and only college entirely focused on renewable energy and sustainability, today announced that it has formed a relationship with Colorado-based Veterans Green Jobs, whose mission is to engage, transition and connect military veterans with meaningful employment opportunities. About 15 percent of Ecotech's current student population is made up of military veterans.

Together, Ecotech and Veterans Green Jobs will focus on encouraging and enhancing opportunities for military veterans by promoting career opportunities in the green jobs sector, both in Colorado and nationally.

"Our military population has already been through so much and we want to make sure we're providing the support they need to excel in school and go on to have productive careers," said Michael Seifert, president of Ecotech Institute. "Veterans Green Jobs has a similar focus, believing that the right jobs can make all the difference in helping our military veterans enjoy a successful life after service."

As part of its commitment to military students, Ecotech recently hosted a seminar on Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), taught by the Denver Department of Veterans Affairs. Ecotech administration, program directors and instructors attended the session to better understand what many student veterans are going through. According to "Help my PTSD," one in every five military personnel returning from Iraq and Afghanistan has PTSD and in the past year the number of diagnosed cases in the military has jumped 50 percent.

At Ecotech, 67 students are either military veterans or currently serving in the military. Of those, three will graduate on June 21, 2012. One of those students is Monica Soto, who will graduate in June with a degree in Wind Energy Technology. Monica spent more than eight years in the Navy as an aircraft mechanic, but after 9/11 she left the Navy to be closer to her son and build a career where she could raise him in one place. After trying some other career paths, she found Ecotech when seeking an opportunity that would capitalize on her training and previous associate's degree, and also build a bridge between her time in the military and her life as a civilian.

"As a single mom and 100 percent disabled vet, I didn't know where to find my place in the civilian community and Ecotech met my needs in a variety of ways," said Soto. "I knew my purpose in the Navy and felt lost after I left; I now feel a purpose again. I'm excited about putting my skills to work to better my own family and our environment."

Ecotech Institute will have its first graduating class in June 2012. Ecotech Institute, which is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools, offers highly practical renewable energy degree programs that provide graduates with skills valued by today's alternative cleantech employers.

Learn more about Ecotech Institute, or call 877-326-5576. The next round of classes begins in late June and applications are being accepted now. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify.

About Ecotech Institute
Ecotech Institute is the first and only college entirely focused on preparing America's workforce for careers in renewable energy and sustainability.  Launched in April 2010 in Denver, Colorado, the college offers five associate's degrees designed by experts in the industry for people seeking careers in the emerging cleantech economy. Ecotech Institute is a division of Education Corporation of America. For more information about Ecotech Institute, visit http://www.ecotechinstitute.com.

About Education Corporation of America
Education Corporation of America is a leader in the post-secondary career school market with current enrollment of almost 20,000 students. 

The ECA website is http://www.ecacolleges.com. In addition to Ecotech Institute, ECA schools include Virginia College, founded in 1983, a private institution of higher education that offers non-degree and associate's, bachelor's and master's degree programs in the areas of Health and Medical, Business, Information Technology, Interior Design, Computer Design, Culinary Arts, Cosmetology, Nursing and more in eighteen different cities.

Virginia College campuses are located in Birmingham, Huntsville, Mobile and Montgomery, Alabama; Jacksonville and Pensacola, Florida; Augusta, Columbus, Macon and Savannah, Georgia; Biloxi and Jackson, Mississippi; Charleston, Spartanburg, Columbia, and Greenville, South Carolina; Chattanooga and Knoxville, Tennessee; Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Richmond, Virginia; Tulsa, Oklahoma; and Austin, Texas. The Virginia College website is http://www.vc.edu. Virginia College also offers classes worldwide via the Internet, with student services and admissions facilities in Birmingham, Alabama, and Tampa, Florida, and a Military Student Center also in Tampa.

Information about online classes at Virginia College is available at http://www.vconline.edu.  Additionally, ECA operates Culinard, the Culinary Institute of Virginia College, with locations in Birmingham and Mobile, Alabama; Richmond, Virginia; Savannah, Georgia; and Jacksonville, Florida.  The website is www.culinard.com. ECA also operates Golf Academy of America, with locations in Phoenix, Arizona; San Diego, California; Dallas, Texas; Orlando, Florida; and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The Golf Academy website is golfacademy.edu.

Contact:
Alicia Hassinger or Jenny Foust
Communications Strategy Group
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
303.433.7020
ahassinger@csg-pr.com or jfoust@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Re-tooled “Trinityhunt.com” Includes Enhancements To Content, Navigation, Design and Appearance

Denver, CO -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/21/2012 -- Trinity Hunt Partners, a leading private equity firm with an extensive track record of partnering with business owners to build value, today announced the launch of its upgraded www.TrinityHunt.com website.

Trinity Hunt revised its website to profile the firm's extensive track record of investments with entrepreneurs and family-owned businesses in its region. The firm's principals have successfully invested over $1.3 billion of equity capital in more than 50 platform companies.

Trinity Hunt's sponsor, the Lamar Hunt family, has a well-deserved reputation for high integrity and fair dealing that serves as a foundation for how the firm does business.

"Trinity Hunt continually seeks to partner with experienced management teams who share the same values and the same desire to build a better and stronger company," said Trinity Hunt Partner Dan Dross. "The new site design and content more accurately reflects who we are as a firm and how we can help our management partners drive growth."

Trinity Hunt typically invests in established companies that are valued between $10 million to $150 million, where the addition of capital and operating resources can generate strong growth prospects. The firm considers investment opportunities across several core industries, including industrial products and services, business services and healthcare services.

To learn more about Trinity Hunt Partners or discuss a new opportunity, please contact Scott Colvert at 214-777-6603 or scolvert@trinityhunt.com.

About Trinity Hunt
Trinity Hunt is a private equity firm based in Dallas, Texas. Recognized throughout the Southwest, Southeast, and lower Midwest regions of the U.S. the firm has earned a reputation for working closely with entrepreneurs and family-owned businesses to provide strategic, operational, and capital expertise to help companies reach the next level. The Trinity Hunt team has successfully invested over $1.3 billion of equity capital in more than 50 platform companies spanning a diverse array of industries and economic cycles. Known for its high integrity, respectful partnerships, and straightforward approach, Trinity Hunt's experience and financial resources help its client firms capitalize on available opportunities.

For more information, visit http://www.trinityhunt.com.

Contact:
Dan Mahoney
Communications Strategy Group
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
970.405.8060
dmahoney@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Luxury Travel Ltd Start free sell to Vietnam and Indochina this summer with instant confirmation. Holidaymakers enjoy big discounts and free nights, now it the best time to experience Vietnam more luxuries for less.

Ba Dinh Dist, Hanoi -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/18/2012 -- Tough times for hotels, airlines are proving a boom for travellers wanting a taste of luxury with a discount. While cut-rate international fares in economy cabins have been a feature of the past six months, heavy discounting is spreading throughout the plane as well as luxury hotels and resorts in Vietnam.

Luxury Travel Ltd (http://www.luxurytravels.asia ) has a good partnership with high-end suppliers and got promotions from luxury properties, Luxury Travel offers unique, sophisticated and economical travel options to the exotic and mysterious lands of the former Indochina. Luxury Travel helps guests to explore both destination & culture with quality at affordable price at this period.

With Luxury Travel, the focus is on high quality service, guides and unique destinations that take guests far away from the stress of their everyday life. The goal is to find the most charming, distinctive and authentic option in a region for the most memorable experience of guests.

"To attract more high-end travelers to Vietnam this summer, we offer luxury hot deals for aspiring luxury travelers till 30 September 2012" says Pham Ha, Founder and CEO of Luxury Travel. "We believe life is to be enjoyed, discovered and experienced, and we take the greatest pleasure in sharing our experiences with you. Now it the best time to experience luxury travel at cheaper price."

Luxury Travel offers hot luxury hotel and deals such as 7 nights in Six Senses Con Dao, pay only 5, or 4 nights pay only 2 nights in The Nam Hai in Hoian, the super saving promotion 10% of Indochina tour packages based on the company website for guests traveling to Vietnam and Indochina with instant confirmation. To enjoy these hot luxury deals, guests must book online with a secret code, FreeSellLUX at http://luxurytravelvietnam.com/special-offers/index2.htm and settle the invoice in full by Visa, Master or American express cards upon confirmation.

Luxury Travel Ltd (http://www.luxurytravelvietnam.com) is a long established specialist in luxury privately guided and fully bespoke holidays in Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar and Thailand. Luxury Travel is excellent in designing tailor-made tours and providing unique travel experiences to fulfill the most sophisticated traveler's expectations. Luxury Travel Ltd won numerous travel awards for excellent performance including the most recent award: Best Luxury Tour Operator.

Contact:
David Nguyen
Sales and Marketing Manager
Luxury Travel Group Ltd
05 Nguyen Truong To Str.,
Ba Dinh Dist, Hanoi 84444
Vietnam
84439274120
marketing@luxurytravelvietnam.com
http://www.LuxuryTravelVietnam.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Ba Dinh Dist, Hanoi -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/17/2012 -- The Luxury Travel Ltd provides travel agents with training, sales supports, selling points, top sales tips as well as hosting regular educational FAM trips.

Vietnam is renowned for being a backpacker destination, a place for those on a budget to get maximum beauty for their buck. But the country has quickly established a contemporary luxury sector that offers the best of Vietnam's culture and an incredibly high-end experience, boasting gourmet restaurant and luxury resorts.

Vietnam offers a magical mix of tropical beaches, post-colonial charm, a string of world heritage sites, stunning inland scenery, world-renowned cuisine and a home-grown flair for impeccable hospitality.

With new luxury hotels and world class golf courses, luxury trains, exclusive cruises and upscale private tours spanning the length of the country; Vietnam is fast emerging as the world's latest luxury destination.

"Vietnam has many attractions, including beautiful resorts, spas, majestic scenery, a rich traditional culture, easy going and welcoming locals, great cuisine and an improving tourist infrastructure. This makes Vietnam a more attractive destination for travelers seeking the best value for their money," says Pham Ha, founder and CEO of Luxury Travel Ltd. "Today upscale tours must offer 'off the beaten path' experiences, efficiency, seamless travel, value for money and a return on personal values. It is these qualities that lead many luxury travelers to opt for short trips, which offer a slice of local culture, a splash of adventure, and authentic experiences."

Luxury Travel Ltd is Vietnam's first luxury tour operator, a privately-owned Vietnamese company with vast local knowledge, offering local insight and a true flavor of Vietnam's culture.

Offering luxury privately guided and fully bespoke holidays through its knowledgeable and passionate tour guides and local travel experts, the company provides travel agents with training, sales supports, selling points, top sales tips as well as hosting regular educational FAM trips.

Luxury travel is now able to provide fast visa service, VIP arrival services at the country's main airports as well as choose from a large and growing selection of luxury hotels & resorts, whilst still enjoying a program that gets them off the tourist trail and into the real Vietnam.

"Discerning travelers look for an authentic luxury travel experience and focus on the whole experience and tend to be cash-rich and time-poor, and are happy to pay luxury travel advisors to take the time putting travel experiences together for them – it's authenticity coupled with luxury," Ha adds.

Vietnam's first luxury tour operator and DMC (http://www.luxurytravelvietnam.com) based in Hanoi with its offices throughout Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand, Luxury Travel is excellent in designing tailor-made tours and providing unique travel experiences.

Etablished in 2004, the Luxury Travel Company Limited has its own offices in Indochina, Myanmar and Thailand, luxury vehicles, luxury travel advisors and representative offices in the USA, UK, France, Germany and Australia. The company's depth of experience and large infrastructure enable it to create unique itineraries with the operational confidence to fulfill the most sophisticated traveler's expectations. Luxury Travel Ltd won numerous travel awards for excellent performance including the most recent award: Best Luxury Tour Operator in Vietnam.

Contact:
David Nguyen
Sales and Marketing Manager
Luxury Travel Group Ltd
05 Nguyen Truong To Str.,
Ba Dinh Dist, Hanoi 84444
Vietnam
84439274120
marketing@luxurytravelvietnam.com
http://www.LuxuryTravelVietnam.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Hollywood, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/17/2012 -- Ascending pop princess singer-songwriter Lea Marie is proud to announce her sophomore release "Undercover Lover", available May 22nd, 2012.  This 6 Song EP features her dynamic dance tracks "Take Me For A Ride," and "Undercover Lover."
 
Lea Marie's 1st radio single from the EP "Take Me For A Ride," is currently making waves on the radio charts across the United States. Her uniquely original songwriting talent shines bright once again and is a great follow-up to her self-titled release. The party-on dance beat keeps things moving along with tongue-in-cheek lyrics as "Take Me For A Ride" drives its memorable chorus home and has received tens of thousands of views on YouTube in just two short weeks. The video is a humorous and entertaining song and depicts Lea Marie as a girl that's hot for the truck while the guy that's driving it is waiting for her to focus some of her excitement in his direction and holds the viewer captive both melodically and lyrically with its catchy hook chorus.
  
Indie in the most multidimensional way, Lea Marie is a self-developed creative musical talent who writes all of her own songs. She strives for perfection, carefully crafting each run on piano and performing down to the last harmony on this new release with songs such as "Undercover Lover," "Turning Me On," and "Mi Chico Latino."

"Songwriting is something that came naturally to me. It's like songwriting would be the sun, with all the planets revolving around it. Songwriting is the center of my universe," says Lea Marie about the writing of her EP.
 
Lea Marie's hard work and years of dedicated songwriting are now paying off as numerous new fans are climbing on board with her through social media, YouTube and radio. Lea Marie's pop sensibilities are solid, smart and captivating. It's clear to see this young talented artist has it all worked out with "Undercover Lover", which will be available on CD Baby, iTunes and Amazon on May 22nd.

Official Website: http://www.leamariemusic.com

For more information on Lea Marie, please contact Chip Schutzman at Miles High Productions: chip@mileshighproductions.com or 323-806-0400.

Contact:
Chip Schutzman
Miles High Productions
P.O. Box 93157
Hollywood, CA 90093
323-806-0400
chip@mileshighproductions.com
http://www.mileshighproductions.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Four Premier Hispanic Organizations Join Partnership to Demonstrate their Commitment to Developing Latina Leaders

Los Angeles, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/16/2012 -- The Women's Institute of Negotiation, led by Founder and CEO Dr. Yasmin Davidds, in partnership with the USC Marshall School of Business and sponsored by Bank of the West, successfully launched THE LATINA NEGOTIATION INITIATIVE. The Initiative launched its program on April 25-27, 2012 and was hosted by USC Marshall's School of Business at the University of Southern California [USC]. The program trained 25 Latina leaders in the art and skill of negotiating for effective leadership and success. The curriculum of the Latina Negotiation Initiative is designed to address negotiation in the context of leadership - transitioning to a position of leadership and authority requires Latinas to effectively negotiate the conditions for success and the Latina Negotiation Initiative is the only program of its kind to focus on helping to prepare Latina leaders to succeed.

Four Hispanic nonprofit organizations participated in helping launch the LATINA NEGOTIATION INITIATIVE: National Society of Hispanic MBA's-OC, Hispanas Organized for Political Equality, Women of the Association of Professional Latinos in Finance and Accounting-OC and the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers-LA.

A study previously conducted by the Women's Institute of Negotiation found that out of 250 professional Latinas surveyed, 97% said their greatest fear is not knowing "How to Ask" for what they want, 92% feared that when they do negotiate, that they may be asking for too much and, almost 90% feared they might be perceived as "too aggressive". Dr. Davidds, with an extensive training and coaching background, believes that providing focused training in teaching Latinas to have the confidence to ask without fear of being perceived as "too aggressive," is critical to the development of successful Latina leaders of the future.

Dr. Davidds states, "Latinas seeking to establish themselves in executive or leadership roles must negotiate their way through a number of obstacles and challenges that their male colleagues often bypass. Today's Latina leaders must be equipped with more than just a traditional leadership skill set; they must be able to negotiate in complex, multi-party situations where relationships are of the utmost importance and substance cannot be sacrificed. With the support of our sponsors and partnering Hispanic organizations, I believe the Women's Institute of Negotiation training has begun to make a difference. We hope that the Latina Negotiation Initiative will continue to grow and evolve as Latinas transition upwards into more powerful leadership roles. We are appreciative and proud that the USC Marshall School of Business and Bank of the West committed resources to spearhead this initiative, recognizing the contributions and value that such a program will yield in the community and the workplace."

Keith Vaughn, Assistant Dean, MBA Admissions, USC Marshall School of Business states, "The USC Marshall School of Business believes it is imperative that we seek to strengthen our relationship with the fastest growing segment of the US population, the Latino community in California. Our partnership with the Women's Institute of Negotiation is evidence of our desire to help grow and educate women in business education. Along with Forte and the Consortium for Graduate Study in Management, the USC Marshall MBA program actively engages Latinas to support their success in both corporate and entrepreneurial endeavors.

For more information on the Women's Institute of Negotiation and its public and private training, please visit www.womensinstituteofnegotiation.com.

About Women's Institute of Negotiation
The Women's Institute of Negotiation is the only professional development organization in the United States specializing in public and private negotiation training exclusively for women. The Institute's curriculum, developed by women empowerment and negotiation expert Dr. Yasmin Davidds, consists of 70% experiential hands-on training in real-world negotiations. The mission of The Women's Institute of Negotiation is to empower women to ask for what they want and provide them with the tools, strategies and techniques to do so effectively.

About Dr. Yasmin Davidds, PSY.D, M.C.C.
Dr. Yasmin Davidds is an international bestselling author, women's empowerment and negotiation specialist and CEO and founder of the Women's Institute of Negotiation. As one of the top leading female negotiation experts in the U.S. and Latin America, Dr. Davidds has trained and consulted thousands of corporate leaders in over 200 blue chip companies throughout 22 countries in the art and skill of negotiation. Her clients include companies such as Proctor and Gamble, Mattel Inc., General Electric, Wal-mart, Coca Cola, American Express, Johnson and Johnson, Microsoft and Apple among many others

About USC Marshall School of Business
The USC Marshall School of Business is dedicated to the improvement of business practices through a global and entrepreneurial perspective that embraces new areas of specialization and technological advances. U.S. News and World Report ranks the school in the top 10 nationwide for accounting, entrepreneurship, international business, and the M.B.A., M.B.A. PM and EMBA programs. With an emphasis on entrepreneurship and innovation, collaborative research and social responsibility, the USC Marshall School of Business is ideally positioned to address the challenges of a rapidly changing business environment.

Contact:
Loreena Garcia
Program Assistant
Women's Institute of Negotiation
5042 Wilshire Blvd #17102
Los Angeles, CA 90036
(866) 857-9879
lgarcia@womensinstituteofnegotiation.com
http://www.womennegotiationinstitute.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Exclusive Vail, Colo., health and fitness experience is the nation’s only gathering designed to help health-conscious individuals and influencers learn to live longer and better

Vail, CO -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/16/2012 -- Health enthusiasts from around the country will gather to network with marathon legends, cycling champions, renowned medical researchers and the nation's leading health and fitness experts at Living at Your Peak (www.livingatyourpeak.org), the Rocky Mountain region's premier wellness experience. The inaugural summit, to be held September 13-15, 2012, in Vail, Colo., is the nation's only gathering designed to help health-conscious individuals and influencers discover how to live longer, better and impact the wellbeing of their world.

"Living at Your Peak is designed to promote life-long health and fitness through customized experiences in an intimate setting," said Jamie Stone, Living at Your Peak event champion and a board member of the Vail Symposium, a nonprofit organization responsible for Living at Your Peak."With exclusive access to proven experts and peak performers in the fields of fitness, nutrition, cognitive and emotional health, medicine and cutting-edge research, our guests will gain valuable insight into the changes they can make in their daily lives that will affect their future health."

Jenna Wolfe, co-anchor of NBC News' Sunday TODAY show, will emcee the event, which is intended for individuals who are interested in learning how to maximize their health, as well as corporate, non-profit and government leaders. The summit offers guests unparalleled access to accomplished world champions; internationally recognized trainers, coaches, researchers and doctors; top chefs, nutritionists and world-class restaurants; and peer networking opportunities.

Among others, confirmed presenters include:

- Ellen Miller, coach of the U.S. Olympic women's running team, Mount Everest climber and adventure racer;

- C. Noel Bairey Merz, MD, director of the Women's Heart Center at Cedars-Sinai, trailblazer and leader in preventive heart health;

- James Hill, MD, executive director of the Colorado Center for Health & Wellness, leading expert and author on nutrition; and

- Scott Small, MD, professor of neurology, Columbia Neuroscience, nationally renowned expert on brain health.

Additional presenters will be announced as the event nears. Visit http://www.livingatyourpeak.org for details.

Living at Your Peak sessions will offer interactive components to engage guests beyond a traditional presentation environment. Session themes include:

- Health: Guests will better understand their own health through preventive health checks, learn what causes injuries during an interactive session at the nation's leading orthopedics laboratory and master healthy eating practices with top nutritionists and chefs.

- Fitness: Guests can bike, hike and golf with world-class athletes and discuss the physical and psychological aspects of training with leading fitness experts.

- Longevity: Guests will learn how to extend their physical wellbeing with wellness, cardiac and nutrition experts. They will also discover how to extend their mental acuity as they complete brain challenges and examine meditation's physiological effects with leading researchers.

Guests will complete a pre-attendance survey to create an individualized agenda and establish physical and mental goals to be addressed through specific programming. A personal concierge will manage guests' event needs, including session scheduling and weekend activities planning. Follow-up coaching, an interactive online community and a winter series will empower guests to take home their Living at Your Peak experience and positively impact their personal networks.

"We want Colorado to be the healthiest state in the nation because healthy living is a strong driver of economic and tourism well-being," said Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper. "Conferences like the Vail Symposium's Living at Your Peak can move us in that direction through their commitment to physical, intellectual and emotional health and well being."

Living at Your Peak registration is $1,000 until June 30 and $1,200 beginning July 1, and includes priority access to event sessions, event coordination with a personal concierge, exclusive access to VIP events and gourmet meals prepared by Vail's internationally renowned chefs. Spouse passes are $300 and individual session fees start at $50 per session.

The summit is organized by the Vail Symposium, a grassroots, non-profit organization providing thought-provoking, diverse and affordable educational programs to the Vail Valley community. Event sponsors include Vail Valley Medical Center, HealthONE, the Town of Vail, The Steadman Clinic, Vail Summit Orthopedics, Triumph Development, The Vail Daily, Antlers at Vail, Vitality Center, Udi's, The Biegler Foundation, Colorado Access and Wendy and Paul Raether.

For more information about Living at Your Peak, please visit http://www.livingatyourpeak.org.

About Living at Your Peak
Living at Your Peak is a two-and-a-half day summit designed to help individuals learn how to live longer, better and influence positive change in the wellbeing of the world around them. The event is designed to promote lifelong health and fitness through customized experiences in an intimate setting. Program presenters are proven experts and peak performers in the fields of fitness, nutrition, cognitive and emotional wellbeing, preventive medicine and cutting-edge research. Living at Your Peak is organized by the Vail Symposium. For more information, please visit http://www.livingatyourpeak.org, like us on Facebook at facebook.com/LivingatYourPeak, follow us on twitter at @LivingaturPeak or follow us on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/living-at-your-peak.

About the Vail Symposium
The Vail Symposium is a grassroots, non-profit organization that has been part of the life and history of Vail since 1971. Its mission is to provide educational programs for the Vail Valley community that are thought-provoking, diverse and affordable. A (501)(c)(3) non-profit organization, the Symposium is almost entirely donor-funded. For more information, please visit http://www.vailsymposium.org.

Contact:
Shannon Fern
Communications Strategy Group
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
303.433.7020
sfern@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Nonprofit organization serving inner-city, underserved Asian American youth in New York City recognizes individuals for their dedicated commitment to the Asian American community

New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/16/2012 -- Apex, a New York City-based non-profit dedicated to promoting the development of inner-city Asian American youth, celebrated six inspirational role models and the organization's 20th anniversary last night at the Inspiration Awards Gala Dinner. Proceeds from the dinner benefit Apex programs that enable underserved children from Asian American communities in New York City to become well-rounded, productive members of society through programs that meet their academic, social and personal needs.

"In New York City, one in four Asian American youth live in poverty and one out of three do not graduate high school on time or at all. The Inspiration Awards Dinner provides us a chance to call attention to this often overlooked population as well as honor the people who have made contributions to advancing the Asian American community," said Michael Lee, Executive Director at Apex. "Last night was also significant for the milestone we celebrated – 20 years of serving under-resourced Asian American youth; we are so proud of the thousands of Apex alumni who have gone on to college and achieved success in life."

Additionally, the organization announced a name change at last night's event. Moving forward it will be known as Apex for Youth.

"We feel Apex for Youth more clearly states our mission to empower youth by connecting them with positive adult role models," said Lee.

This year's six honorees have demonstrated their own commitment to serving the Asian American community. The 2012 Inspiration Award honorees include:

Ben and Emily Huh, Co-founders of Cheezburger Network
In 2007, Ben and Emily Huh started Cheezburger, one of the largest online humor publishers in the world where millions of people come every month to get their 5-minutes of happiness. Cheezburger counts a passionate fan base of 25 million people who upload more than 500,000 pictures and videos as well as view 500 million pages and 110 million videos each month.

Aasif Mandvi, Actor, "The Daily Show with Jon Stewart"
Aasif Mandvi is an Indian-American actor who is currently a correspondent for The Daily Show with Jon Stewart. Aasif's other television credits include "Curb Your Enthusiasm," "Sex and the City," "Sleeper Cell," "The Sopranos," and "OZ," among others. His film credits include "The Proposal," "Spiderman 2," "Analyze This," "It's Kind of a Funny Story" and M.Night Shyamalan's "The Last Airbender." Aasif received the 1999 OBIE award for his critically acclaimed play, "Sakina's Restaurant," which was performed and conceived by Aasif as a one man show and inspired his feature film, "Today's Special," which he co-wrote and stars.

Chad Troutwine, Co-founder and CEO of Veritas Prep; Producer, "Freakonomics"
Chad Troutwine is a decorated entrepreneur, trained attorney, and education pioneer. He is the co-founder and CEO of Veritas Prep, the largest privately owned GMAT preparation and graduate school admissions consulting company in the world. Chad is also the co-founder of Spectrum Station, one of the Midwest's largest early childhood education centers. Since 2003, Chad has produced ten feature films starring more than a dozen Academy Award winning actors and directors. He is also the co-founder of Freakonomics Media, a digital partnership with author Stephen Dubner and economist Steven Levitt.

Alexander Tsui, DMD, Founder of Apex
Dr. Alexander Tsui served as Founding President of Apex from 1992 through 2007. Along with four others, Alex laid the groundwork to start the organization that would become Apex in 1991. Alex maintains a private practice in New York City with an emphasis on restorative and cosmetic dentistry. His professional career has included teaching positions, extensive continuing education, and published articles. Continuing to dedicate much of his time to the community that he works and lives in, Alex has been recognized over the years for his work by the media and community organizations. He is currently a member of the Multicultural Advisory Committee at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Visiting Faculty at Spear Education, a continuing dental education center.

Gwynne Chow Tuan, Fundraiser
Born in Shanghai, Gwynne moved to Washington, D.C., in 1949 with her family. During her 30-year professional career, she was a development executive for Regional Plan Association, St. Luke's Roosevelt Hospital Center, Asian American Federation and China Institute in America and the development director for the Committee of 100. Additionally, Gwynne volunteered extensively in the Asian American community through the Charles B. Wang Community Health Center, Renwen Society and helped to raise critical millions that enabled the Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA), a small, grassroots, community museum in Chinatown that tells the vital story of the Chinese diaspora and more than 160-year history of the Chinese in America.

Apex was founded in 1992, and through its various academic and social programs, each year its robust network of volunteers donate more than 6,000 hours of service to reach more than 200 Asian American youth from almost 50 public schools throughout New York City. Now 20 years later, Apex boasts a 99 percent college attendance rate and thousands of youth alumni.

For more information about the Inspiration Awards Gala Dinner or Apex's work with undeserved Asian American youth, visit http://www.apex-ny.org.

About Apex for Youth
Founded in 1992, Apex for Youth is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit that seeks to empower youth to be well-rounded, productive members of society by recruiting professionals to volunteer as their mentors and teachers. Through year-round one-on-one mentoring, affordable test preparation classes and culturally sensitive afterschool programming that provides sustained engagement for students from fourth to twelfth grade, Apex connects youth with positive role models who inspire them to create and achieve their goals. In the past two decades, through Apex, thousands of volunteers have served thousands of youth, many returning to volunteer themselves. For more information visit http://www.apex-ny.org.

Contact:
Lindsey Mikal
Communications Strategy Group
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
(303) 433-7020
lmikal@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

BankFirst Financial Introduces Kasasa, a Striking Alternative to the Mega Bank Rollercoaster

Denver, CO -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/14/2012 -- BankFirst Financial asks consumers, "Do you Kasasa?" as it becomes the first financial institution in Mississippi to launch the country's most innovative financial products.

Kasasa® is a new brand of free checking and savings accounts that rewards consumers for using their account with what interests them most—high interest, cash back, automatic savings, money to donate to charity or digital downloads from iTunes® or Amazon.com. These accounts, combined with the personal service that only community financial institutions can deliver, are offering residents a better checking account option than the megabank experience.

"Consumers deserve to wake up to happier days of banking and leave behind the nightmare of megabank fees and mistreatment. We are pleased to be the first in Columbus to offer these unique products" said Gray Flora, EVP of BankFirst Financial Services. "Kasasa delivers what research shows people really want but believe they can't have—great financial products with the personal service of a community based financial institution."

BankFirst Financial is offering Three Kasasa financial products, including Kasasa Cash™, Kasasa Saver™ and Kasasa Tunes™. All Kasasa products are free, reward-based accounts, with no minimum balance to get the rewards, no monthly service fee, online banking and nationwide ATM fee refunds.

Kasasa Cash™- A free checking account that yields high interest for every month the account holder qualifies.

Kasasa Saver™- A free, high interest saver account linked to a Kasasa Cash checking account. The interest and ATM fee refunds earned in the Kasasa Cash are automatically deposited into the Kasasa Saver account when the account holders qualify. The balance in the Kasasa Saver account also earns a high rate of interest.

Kasasa Tunes™- A checking account that rewards consumers with digital downloads from iTunes® Amazon or Amazon.com when they qualify.

To receive the Kasasa account benefits, each monthly qualification cycle account holders are asked to do a few simple things (like, receive a monthly eStatement, use a debit card a minimum number of times, and have an electronic transaction such as direct deposit or ACH) post and clear their account. If an account holder does not meet the qualifications in a given month, BankFirst Financial will alert the individual, who will be eligible the following month for the benefits.

"Extensive research has shown us that consumers would prefer to do business with community financial institutions, but feel they would lose access to products," continued Gray Flora. "Kasasa is opening people's eyes to a new banking model where no sacrifices are necessary. It's a win-win because account holders are rewarded with innovative products and personalized service."

In 2009, Kasasa was piloted in six other markets across the U.S. In just the first two months of offering Kasasa, participating community financial institutions reported growth rates upwards of 150% on new account openings and 372% in deposits at institutions focused on deposit growth.

Kasasa is being introduced with an aggressive, highly engaging marketing campaign. It comes to life through a fresh mix of eye-popping advertising, the likes of which exceed the typical megabank's high-budget programs. The ads feature America's top slam poets http://www.kasasa.com/news-and-media/advertising riffing lyrical threads around the theme of "Do you Kasasa?"

Kasasa is distributed to BankFirst Financial from BancVue, the leading provider of innovative products, dynamic marketing, and data-driven consulting solutions to community financial institutions nationwide to help them win the war against the megabanks.

For more information on Kasasa accounts, consumers can visit http://www.bankfirstfs.com or http://www.kasasa.com/BankFirstFS.

Do you Kasasa?
Kasasa® is the first national brand of the most innovative checking accounts available today. The accounts, offered exclusively by the finest community financial institutions, are designed to be the first and only accounts that actually take an interest in their account holders by rewarding them for ussing their account with what interests them most—high interest, cash back, automatic savings, money to donate to charity or iTunes® or Amazon.com downloads. Kasasa, developed and distributed by BancVue, marries innovative banking products with the personal touch of community financial institutions. For more information, visit http://www.kasasa.com.

Contact:
Katie Weathers
CSG PR
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
(404) 791-8245
kweathers@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Tempe, AZ -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/14/2012 -- Internationally acclaimed co-author of Rich Dad Poor Dad, member of the President's Advisory Council on Financial Literacy and a current national spokesperson for the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), Sharon Lechter, will serve as keynote speaker at the ASCPA Annual Meeting presented at the Arizona Biltmore on May 22, 2012.

Registration for the event begins at 11:00 a.m. The program runs from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Fees are $65 for members, $75 for non-members. To register for the event or for more information, visit www.ascpa.com.

During the meeting, Lechter will speak to the audience about financial literacy. The meeting will also include an awards presentation honoring the newest Life Member, Randy Roberts, CPA, state of Arizona Auditor General's Office; Excellence in Teaching Award recipient, Harriet Maccracken, ASU; and the Elijah Watt Sells Award recipient, Trevor Goss, Ernst & Young. Special thanks to event Gold Sponsor, ADP and Silver Sponsors CAMICO, Robert Half and SCF Arizona.

Cindie Hubiak, CPA and President & CEO of the Arizona Society of CPAs noted, "Financial literacy benefits everyone. As CPAs, we know the importance of CPAs educating others about budgeting and saving money. CPAs recognize their role and volunteer their expertise in the community. Sharon's leadership is key. We appreciate her membership in the ASCPA and value her role as a national financial literacy leader."

"I am thrilled to participate. There is no greater honor than that bestowed by your peers. The Arizona Society of CPAs is a fabulous organization that provides leadership and cutting edge training to its membership," said Lechter.

The ASCPA is the leading professional association for CPAs in Arizona. Membership includes more than 6,000 CPAs and business professionals, including CPAs in business and industry, public practice, government, nonprofit and education. The mission of the Society is to enhance the success of members and lead the profession.

For information, contact:
Traci Baker Thompson
Senior Manager of Member Activities
Arizona Society of CPAs
4801 E. Washington St., Suite 225-B
Phoenix, AZ 85034
602-324-4745
http://www.ascpa.com

Best selling author, entrepreneur, international speaker, CPA, and philanthropist, Sharon Lechter passionately promotes financial education and literacy for families. A national spokesperson for the AICPA, she proudly served as a member of the first President's Advisory Council on Financial Literacy. Founder of Pay Your Family First and YOUTHpreneur, Lechter continues to innovate tools and resources to teach financial empowerment. Lechter has received the coveted Mom's Choice Awards® for her board game, ThriveTime for Teens, and for the Youthpreneur BIZkit. Most recently, she released Three Feet from Gold and Outwitting the Devil in cooperation with the Napoleon Hill Foundation. Co-author of the international best selling book, Rich Dad Poor Dad, Lechter continues to travel the globe inspiring others to achieve prosperity.

Contact:
Scott Kelly
Black Dog Promotions
9920 S. Rural Rd., Ste 108
Tempe, AZ 85284
480-206-3435
scott@blackdogpromotions.com
http://www.blackdogpromotions.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Established industrial automation distributor augments Dunkermotor linear motors with complete line of intelligent servo motors, brushed DC motors and gearmotor solutions for southwestern U.S. machinery OEMs.

Elgin, IL -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/14/2012 -- Texas-based automation and motion controls distributor, Shepherd Controls & Associates has expanded beyond the Dunkermotor linear motor line to become a full line authorized channel partner for the Dunkermotor fractional horsepower brushed and brushless DC motors and intelligent servo motors. With offices located in the Dallas - Ft. Worth, Houston and El Paso areas Shepherd Controls covers Texas, including the maquiladoras, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Arkansas.

"Shepherd Controls is very excited about joining forces with Dunkermotor to provide quality automation solutions to our marketing area" said Bill Benko, partner in Shepherd Controls. "As a value-added distributor, Shepherd Controls is dedicated to providing not only high-quality service, but also the finest products in the automation industry to our customers."

Founded in 1985, Shepherd Controls & Associates covers the southwestern market with nine strategically located sales engineers.

"Shepherd's sales engineers undergo rigorous training on all products they represent, and they are qualified to assist customers in choosing cost-effective solutions that meet their application needs," said Don Gallaway, Dunkermotor central regional sales manager. "In addition, our Dunkermotor TechCenter stands ready to work with the Shepherd team on particularly challenging applications."

About Dunkermotor
Headquartered in Elgin, Illinois, Dunkermotor is the North American sales, technical support and logistics subsidiary of Dunkermotoren GmbH, for 60 years the global quality and value leader in customized, configurable sole-source fractional horsepower motion control solutions composed of BLDC, PMDC and AC electric motors, gearmotors, controls, encoders and brakes, as well as linear motion solutions. With headquarters in the Black Forest in Bonndorf, Germany and production and/or logistics facilities in Europe, Asia and the U.S., Dunkermotoren employs 1000 globally and produced over 3.4 million motors in 2011 for the factory and commercial automation, specialty machinery, medical, solar power, packaging, semiconductor, and mass transportation industries.

Contact:
John Morehead
Dunkermotoren USA, Inc.
2511 Technology Drive, Suite 105
Elgin, IL 60124
224-293-1300
john.morehead@dunkermotoren.com
http://www.dunkermotoren.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

FRA is welcoming an article by Pictet-Timber fund co-manager Gabriel Micheli in Investment Week, giving tips to anyone considering investing in timber.

Bainbridge Island, WA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/14/2012 -- Forestry Research Associates (FRA) is welcoming an article by Pictet-Timber fund co-manager Gabriel Micheli in Investment Week, giving tips to anyone considering investing in timber.

Mr Micheli is keen to point out the potential returns that can come about as a result of opting for timber investments, which will be underpinned by real growing demand for timber products in emerging economies such as China and India.

He said that wise investors are "waking up" to the environmental "megatrends" in the market. These include the realisation that growing forests can provide communities with income as they provide potential for carbon trading arrangements. As a result of these arrangements, developing countries can make money from developed nations through carbon trading. This is possible because trees absorb huge amounts of carbon dioxide from the air and therefore provide one of the most cost-effective means of reducing carbon emissions.

Mr Micheli added that investors are regularly seeing their returns from timber investment exceeding returns on stocks and shares investments. He points out that between 1990 and 2011 the NCREIF Timberland index returned 10.7 per cent each year. He claims that this shows that timber has a "key role" to play in any portfolio that is diversified against risk.

He claims that the demand for timber is coming from the nations that are desperate to get their hands on raw materials to continue their housing and infrastructure developments. At the same time, supply is not keeping up with the pace, which will drive prices up.

"Along with Mr Micheli, we are confident that timber prices will rise along with demand in the coming few years," stated Peter Collins, the analysis partner at FRA, a research and analysis consultancy specialising in forestry investment.

He added, "Investing in sustainable timber growth, through firms such as Greenwood Management and Pictet-timber fund can provide careful investors with the chance to make a health return form an ethical investment –something that is not that easy to come by."

Contact:
Peter Collins
Forestry Research Associates
620 Vineyard Lane
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
(206) 316 8394
info@forestry-research.com
http://www.forestry-research.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Profinium Financial Introduces Kasasa, a Striking Alternative to the Megabank Rollercoaster

Denver, CO -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/14/2012 -- Profinium Financial asks consumers, "Do you Kasasa?" as it becomes the next financial institution in Minnesota to launch the country's most innovative financial products.

Kasasa® is a new brand of free checking and savings accounts that pays consumers to use their account with what interests them most—high interest or automatic savings. These accounts, combined with the personal service that only community financial institutions can deliver, are offering residents a better checking account option than the megabank experience.

"Consumers deserve to wake up to happier days of banking and leave behind the nightmare of megabank fees and mistreatment. We are pleased to be the first in Truman to offer these unique products," said Marques Doppler, CEO at Profinium Financial "Kasasa delivers what research shows people really want but believe they can't have—great financial products with the personal service of a community based financial institution."

Profinium Financial is offering two Kasasa financial products, Kasasa Cash? and Kasasa Saver?. All Kasasa products are free, reward-based accounts, with no minimum balance to earn the rewards, no monthly service fee, free online banking and nationwide ATM fee refunds.

Kasasa Cash - A free checking account that rewards consumers with high interest for every month they qualify.

Kasasa Saver - A free, high interest saver account linked to a Kasasa Cash checking account. The interest and ATM fee refunds earned in the Kasasa Cash are automatically deposited into the Kasasa Saver account when the account holder qualifies. The balance in the Kasasa Saver account also earns a high rate of interest.

To receive the Kasasa account benefits, each monthly qualification cycle account holders are asked to do a few simple things like, receive an eStatement, use a debit card a minimum number of times, and have an electronic transaction (such as direct deposit) post to and clear their account. If an account holder does not meet the qualifications in a given month, Profinium Financial will alert the individual, who will be eligible the following month for the benefits.

"Extensive research has shown us that consumers would prefer to do business with community financial institutions, but feel they would lose access to products," continued Doppler "Kasasa is opening people's eyes to a new banking model where no sacrifices are necessary. It's a win-win because account holders get innovative products and personalized service."

In 2009, Kasasa was piloted in six other markets across the U.S. In just the first two months of offering Kasasa, participating community financial institutions reported growth rates upwards of 150% on new account openings and 372% in deposits at institutions focused on deposit growth.

Kasasa is being introduced with an aggressive, highly engaging marketing campaign. It comes to life through a fresh mix of eye-popping advertising, the likes of which exceed the typical megabank's high-budget programs. The ads feature America's top slam poets www.kasasa.com/news-and-media/advertising riffing lyrical threads around the theme of "Do you Kasasa?"

Kasasa is distributed to Profinium Financial from BancVue, the leading provider of innovative products, dynamic marketing, and data-driven consulting solutions to community financial institutions nationwide to help them win the war against the megabanks.

For more information on Kasasa accounts, consumers can visit www.profinium.com or www.kasasa.com/profiniumfinancial.

Do you Kasasa?
Kasasa® is the first national brand of the most innovative checking accounts available today. The accounts, offered exclusively by the finest community financial institutions, are designed to be the first and only accounts that actually take an interest in their account holders by rewarding them to use their account with what interests them most—high interest, cash back, automatic savings, money to donate to charity or iTunes® or Amazon.com downloads. Kasasa, developed and distributed by BancVue, marries innovative banking products with the personal touch of community financial institutions. For more information, visit www.kasasa.com.

Contact:
Katie Weathers
CSG PR
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
(404) 791-8245
kweathers@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Ba Dinh Dist, Hanoi -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/14/2012 -- Luxury Travel Ltd (http://www.luxurytravelvietnam.com) to launch an exciting Vietnam tour in three weeks to beautiful places of Hanoi – Sapa Topas Ecolodge – Bai Tu Long Bay –Cat Ba Island – Hai Phong – Thai Binh – Ninh Binh – Hue Pilgrimage Village- Hoi An – Dalat – Nam Cat Tien – HCM City.

Vietnam is an exotic destination, appeals with authentic interactions in an unspoilt environment for discerning travelers who want "off the beaten path" experiences, efficiency, seamless travel, value for money and a return on personal values. It is these qualities that lead many to opt for longer trips to exotic places, which offer a slice of local culture, a splash of adventure, and authentic experiences.

This tour absolutement is for people who seek personal challenges and new experiences, and who want to meet real people in a beautiful and unique environment.

In North Vietnam, traveler's base will be Vietnam's capital, Hanoi. Visit Duong Lam ancient village, is a purely agricultural village of the Northern Red River Delta.

Take an overnight train to Sapa near the Chinese border. You'll put on their walking shoes for a hike through lush valleys and rice fields before an overnight stay in an eco-lodge on the foot of Fansipan Mountain.

"You will continue your trip with a relaxing cruise on a deluxe junk in gorgeous Halong Bay, a perfect conclusion to an unforgettable journey. You will discover Bai Tu Long Bay and its remote limestone islands, many of which feature dramatic sea caves and sheltered, pristine beaches that can only be reached by kayak" said Hung Nguyen, sales and marketing manager

Next, traveler will head to Central Vietnam to the old imperial capital, Hue and the UNESCO World Heritage town of Hoi An, where traveler will whet your appetite with a cooking class and fishing with the locals. You will also be able to indulge in stopping off at local villages and cycling quiet back roads.

Fly Danang to French Hill Resort Dalat and travelers drive down to HCM City former Saigon. Travelers will discover Nam Cat Tien National Park and the National Biosphere, as they encounter wildlife in both Nam Cat Tien and Con Gio.

"This exciting three week trip allows you to discover the exotic places of the country, from North to South Vietnam, and stay in new and trendy hotels and resorts. Trek and cycle through ethnic minority villages in Vietnam's remote northern highlands. Sea kayak among towering limestone karsts and explore hidden lagoons in magical Halong Bay and off the beaten track Bai Tu Long Bay, farming and Fishing in Hoian, boat trip Cu Lao Cham island, animal watching in Nam Cat Tien are on this tour. Luxuriate in diverse lodgings. This trip emphasizes the scenic and natural beauty of Vietnam, minimizing your time in big cities, yet balancing authenticity with luxury accommodations and service." Said Pham Ha, Founder and CEO of Luxury Travel Ltd.

Luxury Travel Ltd (http://www.luxurytravelvietnam.com) is a long established specialist in luxury privately guided and fully bespoke holidays in Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar and Thailand. Luxury Travel is excellent in designing tailor-made tours and providing unique travel experiences to fulfill the most sophisticated traveler's expectations. Luxury Travel Ltd won numerous travel awards for excellent performance including the most recent award: Best Luxury Tour Operator.

For booking, visit http://www.luxurytravelvietnam.com/EN/Vietnam_tours/Culturetours/Exotic_Vietnam_in_3_weeks.htm

Contact:
David Nguyen
Luxury Travel Ltd
05 Nguyen Truong To Str.,
Ba Dinh Dist, Hanoi 84444
Vietnam
84439274120
marketing@luxurytravelvietnam.com
http://www.LuxuryTravelVietnam.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Baltimore, MD -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/14/2012 -- Center for Vein Restoration (CVR), with 18 clinics in Maryland, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Michigan, is a rapidly growing group of clinics in venous insufficiency, the medical condition behind varicose veins and spider veins. As the company continues to thrive, it has been seeking ways to improve the communication of its services to its patients. As a result, CVR reached out to Incite Creative to help expand its offering of patient information materials.

It is estimated that 10 to 20 percent of all adults in the US are affected by venous insufficiency, with conditions ranging from embarrassing looking veins to severely curtailed mobility due to pain, fatigue, ulcers, and more. CVR hired Incite Creative to design new patient brochures and handbooks -- building on CVR's successful web and print advertising campaign -- to better educate patients and their families on treatment options as well as help to continue the building of Center for Vein Restoration's brand.

As a leading marketing and graphic design firm to the medical industry, Incite Creative is an excellent fit for CVR on its latest project. Incite's president, Dina Wasmer has over 20 years experience creating marketing and branding programs for the healthcare industry. Prior to founding Incite in 1999, Dina led the publications department at Johns Hopkins School of Public Health (now the Bloomberg School of Public Health). Since that time, Incite has specialized in providing marketing, branding, and creative services to a wide range of healthcare/medical institutions, companies, and nonprofits.

"Being selected to work with the Center for Vein Restoration is a testament to our depth of healthcare/medical experience, and we're excited about this new collaboration. CVR will bring comfort and confidence to people who've been searching for a solution to their varicose and spider vein issues, and my team and I welcome the opportunity to help CVR reach those in need of their services," said Dina Wasmer.

For more information about Center for Vein Restoration and the services they provide to help aid people suffering from venous insufficiency, go to: www.centerforvein.com.

About Incite Creative (http://www.incitecreativeinc.com)
Now in its twelfth year in business, Incite Creative is a marketing and graphic design firm that specializes in strategic positioning, brand development and creative implementation services for Mid-Atlantic, small-to-mid-sized healthcare/medical companies and organizations, as well as other industries, that have regional, national and international reach. For more information, log onto http://www.incitecreativeinc.com or contact Dina Wasmer at 410-366-9479 ext. 2# or dina@incitecreativeinc.com.

Contact:
Dina Wasmer
Incite Creative, Inc
1501 St. Paul Street, Suite 113
Baltimore, MD 21202
410-366-9479
dina@incitecreativeinc.com
http://www.incitecreativeinc.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Leading GMAT prep and graduate school admissions consulting provider pulls back the curtain on graduate admissions with surprising interview findings.

Denver, CO -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/09/2012 -- A recent series of interviews with Veritas Prep graduate school admissions consultants shows that simple errors plague many graduate school applicants: not highlighting extracurricular activities, using the same applications for multiple schools and not answering honestly when asked for a personal weakness. These common mistakes, along with other findings, were revealed in interviews that took place last month.

These admissions consultants assist graduate school candidates with the application process, but nearly all formerly served on admissions committees at top-ranked American universities.

The five most common mistakes mentioned by the admissions consultants were:
- Brushing over a lack of extra-curricular involvement
- Using the same application for multiple schools
- Passing off a positive trait when asked for a weakness
- Coming across as boastful
- Lack of self-awareness, including post-degree goals, reason for wanting to purse an advanced degree, personal values, etc.

Those interviewed agreed that downplaying a lack of extracurricular activities is an obvious omission to admissions committees. Traditional graduate school applicants have been focused on career development and may have not spent enough time developing their community involvement, the consultants said. They suggest explaining a lack of volunteer history or even highlighting any activity enjoyed outside of work can fill in that gap and make for a more well rounded application.

It's assumed that most applicants will apply to more than one school. But, many consultants said they have noticed an application that was clearly copied and pasted. Neglecting to address the unique requirements of each program is a missed opportunity and an easy way for admissions directors to pass up your application, many said.

Another common theme that emerged was that many applicants tend to incorrectly answer the "What is your greatest weakness?" question. Many consultants said that a real answer needs to be given, not a strength worded in a negative way.

A related mistake applicants often make is they come across as boastful. While there is nothing wrong with being proud of your accomplishments and conveying what you bring to the table, arrogance is unattractive. Consultants instead advise applicants to let their letters of recommendation speak on their behalf – let someone else gush about you. It'll be more authentic.

Additionally, admissions committees want to get to know applicants and gain an insight into their goals, motivations, values and other personal attributes – what makes them tick and how they might fit into the program. According to the interviews, many prospective students lack the self-awareness. Applicants should put thought equity into those things and make sure they come across in the application.

Among their tips for success: Be yourself. Every one of the Veritas Prep admissions consultants agreed that there is one major way to get a graduate school application noticed: originality. A far cry from decades ago when a high test score and fancy title would get you in the door, today's market is incredibly competitive. And more potential students not only have the common attributes for grad school success, but also other skills that make them desirable to the top schools in the nation. According to the experts, admissions committees are ready to see something different – and that could be a candidate's ticket to their first choice school.

The Veritas Prep admissions consultants also offered additional tips for success:
- Spend time on introspection and actually incorporate that materials into your overall narrative and essays
- Make the resume a snapshot of your candidacy
- Have someone who will level with you review your essays
- Allow enough time to prepare thoughtful applications
- Apply to the institutions that will be a good fit for you; do not just pick schools for their name brand cache

For more behind-the-scenes advice from former admissions officers, download the full report: "Behind the Curtain of Graduate School Admissions: Veritas Prep Admissions Consultants Reveal Common Mistakes; Tips for Success."

In addition to the report released today, Veritas Prep is also making two extra guides available to prospective graduate students: The Guide to Writing Great Admissions Essays and The Guide to Graduate School Financial Aid. To download the free guides, or for more information about Veritas Prep and its services and resources, visit http://www.VeritasPrep.com.

About Veritas Prep
Veritas Prep is the world's largest privately owned GMAT preparation and admissions consulting provider, offering industry-leading programs to help applicants improve their test scores and gain admission to the world's best graduate schools. Founded in 2002 by graduates of the Yale School of Management, Veritas Prep now offers live GMAT prep instruction in more than 80 cities worldwide, as well as interactive online courses available everywhere. Additionally, Veritas Prep offers industry-leading admissions consulting services for applicants seeking admission to the most competitive business schools, law schools, and medical schools in the world. Visit VeritasPrep.com for more information.

Contact:
Lindsey Mikal
Communications Strategy Group
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
303 433 7020
lmikal@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm