Wig Wearers Will Now Have Products Available in 300 Walmart Stores across the United States.

West Bloomfield Township, MI -- (ReleaseWire) -- 02/04/2021 -- Le'Host Hair and Wigs headquartered just outside of Detroit in Ferndale, Michigan announced today that they are releasing their revolutionary wig care product line to 300 Walmart stores across the United States.

Le'Host Hair and Wigs, owners are the husband-and-wife entrepreneur team of Henry and Haith Johnson. The Johnsons who have been in the beauty industry for over 30 years, have several product creations that they off their existing client base. What they saw lacking in the marketplace, and on the shelves for easy consumer consumption were products for the care of natural hair, weaves, and wig units.

Particularly to the myriad of women who wear wigs, but do not have quality products to protect and support their units. "We are delighted to serve the masses by making our products available for public consumption and are thrilled Walmart is the perfect partner to provide their trusted brand name and platform to do so," responded Haith Johnson, owner, Le'Host Hair and Wigs "Our own clients were giving us their need for the product for the consumer from the beginning, and it was only a matter of time, testing and the right partners to get it to the public." Le'Host products are planned to be distributed in over 300 stores throughout the north and southeast regions of the United States. The product line will include:

- Unlock Hair Detangler – proprietary formula that detangles with a special hydration formula that protects and conditions the cuticle.

- Wrap and Set Foaming Lotion – fast-drying, non-flaking, hydrating and alcohol-free.

- Protect and Shine Laminate – provides shine, protects, and seals the cuticle, keeps hair silky and manageable.

- Healthy Edge Smoother - non-greasy, flake-free, and colorless, provides a soft touchable hold while nourishing edges. With Jojoba Oil, it will moisturize, thicken, strengthen, and rapidly increase hair growth.

"We strongly anticipate our products to fly off the shelves. We are confident that we are providing the right solutions at the right time for our customers," said Henry Johnson.

The Johnsons also are dedicated to community service, by partnering with the American Cancer Society as a designated wig bank, distributing free wigs to cancer survivors. They have seen clients suffer medical conditions after returning from military service and work with the Veterans of America.

Le'Host Hair & Wig is a designated wig bank to distribute wigs on the behalf of American Cancer Society and to donate wigs into the community to restore self-esteem and give a sense of normalcy. "As a salon owner and hairstylist, says Haith. " I felt it important to take a lead in assisting in getting the wigs to those who are in need."

About Le'Host Hair and Wigs
Le'Host Hair and Wigs prides itself on integrity and high standards of service specializing in natural hair, hair replacements including custom-made wigs, designer wigs and weaves. Over the years they have had the privilege servicing high profile celebrities working on film productions, television shows, music videos, award shows and events.

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

skinnytees gives the skinny on its beginnings and the SKIN line.

West Bloomfield, MI -- (ReleaseWire) -- 02/04/2021 -- Wide awake in the middle of the night, looking for a way to make money after going through a divorce and during the mortgage crisis in 2008, Linda Schlesinger-Wagner had an idea: create a camisole that would fit every woman. It would be a little longer than other shirts, a little wider, and it had to be flattering. "It had to appeal to every woman, every age, every size," remembers Schlesinger-Wagner, who was no stranger to the fashion world. She had owned a children's clothing store in Birmingham, MI and made knit designs for such high fashion department stores as Niemen Marcus.

Linda called her kids who were living in Los Angeles. Her son, David, an internet expert, claimed the product's name that Linda had come up with- skinnytees and together, they launched the skinnytees.com website.

Linda borrowed $1000 on a friend's credit card for product. She began working from a home office. "I charged a little each month and paid it back each month." She rolled over the income back into the business. Today skinnytees operates as a family affair with Linda in the 8000-square-foot facility in Birmingham and her son, David, and daughter Annie at the Los Angeles office. David remains in charge of the website, social media, and blogging. Annie is head of marketing and creative development.

Shop skinnytees this February
This February skinnytees will be re-launching the skinnytees SKIN line. Inclusivity has always been a goal at skinnytees from the sizes to the colors. skinnytees launched the SKIN line in 2019 to increase diversity with inclusive shades for every woman of any size or SKIN shade. Linda Schlesinger-Wagner would love to show the new SKIN by skinnytees.

Skinnytees will offer these five shades in their bestsellers- the basic cami, the basic tank and the high neck tank in both Missy and Plus sizes. skinnytees has more than 210 different products, including tops, leggings, dresses and added patterns, cardigans, vests, velvets to the skinnytees products over the years.

The goal is to remove the word "nude" from their color list as there is no "one" nude," stated Linda Schlesinger – Wagner, Founder of skinnytees. "The skinnytees shades of Dark Brown, Stone, Toasted Almond, Ivory and Taupe round out the range allowing for all to find a shade that compliments their skin tone when layering, while keeping that slimming style that skinnytees is known for." skinnytees will offer these five shades in their bestsellers camis, the basic tank and the high neck tank in both Missy and Plus sizes.

Valentine's Day 2021 may be different due to the pandemic this year. People will enjoy a cozy celebration at home. Whether you are going out or staying home, dressing up in a new outfit is always uplifting! skinnytees has the perfect Valentine's Day outfit.

Skinnytees has more than 210 different products, including tops, leggings, dresses. The skinnytees team is always coming up with new things. The clothes are one-size-fits-most to be worn for athletics, maternity, casual lounging or dressed up. The uniqueness of skinnytees fabric is that it is not Spanx-tight, but soft-tight and therefore works for most people. If you name a style: crew neck, V-neck, round neck, off the shoulder skinnytees has it. Founder, Linda Schlesinger- Wagner, listens to her customers and what they are looking for and therefore, patterns, cardigans, vests, velvets have been added to the skinnytees products over the years.

Giving back
Philanthropy among the pillars of skinnytees. Linda enjoys speaking and working with entrepreneurs and has no secrets to her business failures and accomplishments. She happily shares her insights wanting everyone to find their journey to success. Yet, be prepared to work hard, because Linda will educate you that hard work, honesty, and caring for your community is the road to all successful businesses long term. Linda has never forgotten those who helped her, and it is part of the mission of skinnytees to give back and give of yourself.

"That's why we are here," Linda says. "We are here to make a difference."

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

Thousands of fleece blankets to be created during August 4th event for pediatrics patients throughout Michigan

West Bloomfield Township, MI -- (ReleaseWire) -- 07/31/2018 -- Fleece & Thank You, a Michigan-based non-profit organization, will host its 2nd annual Make A Blanket Day on Saturday, August 4 from 1- 5 p.m. at Airtime Trampoline in Troy, Michigan. With hundreds of volunteers expected to attend, Make A Blanket Day has a goal of making 2,500 blankets at this year's event to provide comfort and hope to children in the hospital.

"When children learn they've been diagnosed with cancer or a serious illness, it's traumatizing for them and their family," said Nick Kristock, executive director of Fleece & Thank You. "By providing a cozy, colorful fleece blanket, with a personalized video message, our goal is to make a positive difference in their lives during this challenging time."

Beyond a fleece blanket with a whimsical, colorful pattern, Fleece & Thank You helps give children in the hospital a powerful connection to the outside world with a video message of support from the blanket maker, who films a 10-15 second video on their smartphone or computer.

"The video message that accompanies each Fleece & Thank You blanket can be the most exciting part of the process," said Kristock, who led the development of a proprietary video software to make this possible. "While the soft, comforting blanket is experienced by the touch, the inspiring video message is felt by the heart."

Donations and event sign ups can be made at www.crowdrise.com/ftyblanketday18. Every $24 donation covers the cost of providing a blanket and video message to another child. There are a few ways to participate:

Pay a blanket forward with a monetary donation and volunteers will make that blanket at the event.

Make a blanket yourself! Donate at Crowdrise.com and bring your email receipt on August 4th.

Create a team and fundraise to make blankets as a group! You can make these on your own, in the office, at home, OR you can make them at the event on August 4th.

About Fleece & Thank You
Founded in 2015, Novi, Michigan-based Fleece & Thank You is the brainchild of 26-year old Nick Kristock, who has assembled a passionate team, board of directors and volunteers all working toward the mission to create and provide fleece blankets to all 30,000 pediatric patients annually, throughout the State of Michigan. The Novi, Michigan-based non-profit organization has helped create nearly 40,000 blankets to date.

Previously, Kristock spent two years playing professional soccer in Australia, where he volunteered at a children's hospital. It was during this time, that he met 4 year-old Sophie, who was diagnosed with neuroblastoma. Sophie became his inspiration to create Fleece & Thank You.

More information can be found at FleeceAndThankYou.org or by contacting 313.451.3665. Airtime Trampoline Troy is located at 662 E. Big Beaver Rd. https://www.crowdrise.com/FTYBlanketDay18

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

West Bloomfield, MI -- (ReleaseWire) -- 05/10/2018 -- Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, David Letterman, John Lennon and James Dean are just some of the subjects of Birmingham Artist Tom Maniaci's pop art works for charity. "When I started doing these portraits, I had no idea that it would evolve into these big paint-by-number canvases for charity and that the art that I started years ago -these big portraits -- would turn into a vehicle for raising money for all these worthy causes. That's the best part," Maniaci said.

Artist Tom Maniaci, creator of Frame Your Face, has orchestrated paint-by-number canvasses for over 60 charity events since 2005, raising over $275,000. Starting in 2010, one of those annual charity events have been Art of Giving, presented by a volunteer committee on behalf of Frame Your Face. The event raises money for a different charity every year. In 2018, the ninth annual Art of Giving will be supporting S.O.U.L. on Thursday, May 24th at 7pm -11pm - Vinotecca & The Elm Room, 210 S Old Woodward Ave, Birmingham, MI 48009, emceed by Stacy DuFord, formerly of WOMC.

This year's event benefits SOUL, or Support Our Unique Learners is an organization dedicated to encouraging the educational growth of all children including those with learning challenges. S.O.U.L. gathers resources from the educational community as well as special therapies such as Occupational, Physical and Speech to give each child the individual tools to maximize their success. S.O.U.L. is dedicated to helping families provide these things which come at a high cost, with little insurance assistance in most cases.

The aim is educational inclusion as well as individual evaluations to provide necessary assistance to any child who needs it.

A box of newspapers, some old Videocassettes, a few plastic bags, a pair of scissors and tape. This year's event will bring four new and exciting creations paper dress fashion designer Matthew Richmond, who uses everyday materials such as these to create his eclectic line of dresses. This year's designs will be made from artists works of: Tom Maniaci, Tony Roko, Kim Fujiwara, and Carl Lundgren.

At the annual The Art of Giving, Maniaci, sets up large canvases of his pop art in paint-by-number sections of famous current or former pop icons, letting attendees get creative at the fundraiser. Bruce Springsteen may make an appearance rumor has it as one of the newest favorites.

Tickets:

For more information about Frame Your Face, go to http://www.frameyourface.com, or call Tom Maniaci at 248-763-8742. Eventbrite.com.

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

West Bloomfield, MI -- (ReleaseWire) -- 12/15/2017 -- As the holidays approach, the best gift we can give our families is good health. One important step in providing that gift is making sure our family members are up to date on immunizations. It's the surest way we can share the confidence that they are protected from diseases that could easily have been prevented by a vaccine.

As a mother who lost one of my children to a vaccine-preventable disease, I wake up every morning determined to protect other families from living that same nightmare.

My middle daughter Emily was a sophomore studying psychology and theatre at Kalamazoo College in Michigan. She had just started her second semester when she called me one evening complaining about a minor headache. I suggested that she take Motrin and asked her to let me know how she felt in the morning. That next morning, I received a phone call from a hospital informing me that Emily had been admitted during the night and, in a few impossibly short hours, had slipped into a coma. She had contracted meningococcal disease and was being rushed into surgery.

Meningococcal disease is one of the most common types of bacterial meningitis. It is a life-threatening bacterial infection that can affect the lining of the brain and spinal cord, or it can cause an infection in the bloodstream – or both. It is caused by five types of meningococcal bacteria: A, B, C, W, and Y. It can attack without warning, and early symptoms can often be mistaken for the flu – high fever, nausea, vomiting, headache, exhaustion, and a purplish rash. It is easy to spread from person to person through shared saliva or respiratory droplets, and even from being in close quarters.

Meningococcal disease is more common than you think. It affects all ages, and can occur anywhere. Though there is an increased incidence rate among babies, the occurrence rate spikes again between the ages of 11 and 23 when common social behavior puts adolescents and young adults more at risk.

Emily had received "the meningitis shot" when she was 11, and then received a booster dose before she left for college when she was 17. Needless to say, I thought my daughter was protected against this disease. It turned out that the "meningitis shot" only protected her against serogroups A, C, W, and Y. There was no vaccine available in the United States at that time to protect her against serogroup B. My daughter was just 19 when, on February 2, 2013, she lost her life to Meningitis B.

Though the Meningitis B vaccine has been licensed in the United States since 2014, it is disappointing that many parents remain unaware of its existence. It is terrifying to me that they still falsely assume their adolescent and young adult children are protected with just the one vaccine – the one that doesn't protect against Meningits B. Yet Meningitis B accounts for nearly 50 percent of all meningococcal disease cases among 17-22 year-olds. In addition, it is responsible for 100 percent of all meningococcal disease outbreaks that have taken place on college campuses in the U.S. since 2011. It is a scary and a hideous disease.

My daughter Emily's life was taken too soon, but that should not mean any other parent needs to endure what our family has. Take the time to learn more and find out what you can do to protect your family. By educating both parents and students on Meningitis B – both its symptoms and the vaccine that can help prevent it – we can save other young people from this deadly but preventable disease.

During this upcoming holiday season, let's work together to spread the message so parents will know how to protect their families. It takes two types of vaccines to be fully immunized against meningococcal disease. Don't take a chance. The Meningitis B vaccine wasn't available in time for my child – but it is in time for yours.

Alicia Stillman, of Michigan and Florida, is married, and has two living children. She is the co-founder and director of The Emily Stillman Foundation.

For more information, visit http://www.ForeverEmily.org and http://www.MeningitisBActionProject.org.

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

Just in time for the holidays kids can wrap themselves in a superhero blanket cape

West Bloomfield, MI -- (ReleaseWire) -- 10/03/2017 -- This November, just in time for the holiday season, Target Stores across the country will carry, the new and patented Super Blanky®. Super Blanky® is created with an incredibly unique patented design that turns a blanket into a wearable superhero cape without the restriction of a neckband. The sleeves allow the wearer to play superhero or cozy up with the blanket wrapped safely around their shoulders. It's like cuddling in a giant comfy, confidence cape.

Super Blanky® will be available with the following licensed characters: Batman®, Five Nights at Freddy's®, Jurassic World®, Paw Patrol®, PJ Masks®, Trolls®, Despicable Me 3®, Emoji Nation® and My Little Pony®.

Jeffrey Franco, Executive Vice President of Product Development and Licensing, a 3rd generation family member, running the company said, "When we saw the Super Blanky we knew it was a winner." Franco sees this product as having key attributes that fit the categories the company looks for as it is innovative, a great vehicle for licenses, and proprietary with a strong patent. "The whole Franco Mfg. team is excited about the Target promotion and the future of Super Blanky," Franco added.

The Super Blanky® with coordinating mask will be launching at Target store end caps nationwide, for $19.99 November 2017. To learn more about Super Blanky® visit superblanky.com, follow Super Blanky® at Facebook, keyword "My Super Blanky" or Twitter @mysuperblanky for updates. To purchase your own, visit your local Target Store or target.com.

Super Blanky®, LLC
Media Inquiries:
Sari M. Cicurel
Sari.Cicurel@gmail.com
248-766-0945

Watch Super Blanky® on the Today Show at the As Seen on TV Exhibition https://youtu.be/e6cGpWdVL3k.

About Franco Manufacturing
Franco Manufacturing Co., Inc. was founded in 1952 by David E. Franco and his three sons. Now in its third generation, the Company's commitment to product innovation, quality and service continues to keep pace in a competitive marketplace.

Franco Manufacturing's products include children's and teen bedding, pillows, throws/blankets, window, rugs, bath and beach towels for many popular licensed properties. Franco products can be found at major mass market retailers, specialty stores, department stores and on-line outlets.

For more information visit franco-mfg.com; emailJeffrey.franco@franco-mfg.com or call 732-494-0500.

About Super Blanky®
Super Blanky® was created by Karen Bonnici, of Metro Detroit, MI when she wanted to create a special gift for her nieces and nephew in 2011. Initially Bonnici created a cape that was also a blanket with neckband but reworked the cape and patented her idea in 2012. The wearer simply puts their arms through the loops, which fold flat when not in use. The loops remove the need for any ties or neck fasteners, making the blanket turned cape cozy, comfortable and safe by reducing choking hazard. Bonnici who is a professional storyteller, musician, and mother of two children believes an imaginative child is a self-empowered child.

For more information visit superblanky.com, email info@superblanky.com or call 248-766-4323.

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

Renovated mansion embodies Detroit’s glamourous past with modern comforts

West Bloomfield, MI -- (ReleaseWire) -- 06/08/2017 -- The Inn at 97 Winder proudly welcomes its first guests to enjoy a modern experience in a historic setting. This 11,000 square-foot renovated mansion features 10 uniquely designed rooms with antique furnishings, art curated from across the globe and luxurious private bathrooms. An elegant alternative to luxury Detroit hotels, The Inn at 97 Winder is dedicated to a four-star level of service, with its concierge desk ready to cater to guests' every whim.

"We are thrilled to be part of Detroit's resurgence by opening the doors to this beautiful piece of Detroit's splendor," said Mark LaHood, President of the global hospitality firm Access Hotels & Resorts. The management company will oversee operations, and has enhanced The Inn with a massage room, business center and many modern-day amenities. "We have set out to create a special experience for our guests who stay in this historic Detroit mansion, with top-notch service in an unbeatable location."

Located at 97 Winder Street in Detroit, The Inn's neighborhood is experiencing an exciting revival, and is ideally located in close proximity to Detroit's most popular venues including Little Caesars Arena, Comerica Park, Ford Field, Fox Theatre and many other Detroit attractions.

Guests of The Inn at 97 Winder will be treated to gourmet specialty food items directed by Chef James Gundy of Detroit's Red Dunn Kitchen which will soon be housed in Corktown's Trumbull and Porter Hotel. From fresh-baked cookies, wine and cheese platters, to made-in-Detroit drinks and delicacies as well as 24-hour coffee and tea service, The Inn also has board games and periodicals on hand for guest to enjoy.

In addition to offering rooms for overnight stays with a gourmet continental breakfast, the mansion can be reserved for private events such as weddings, corporate meetings, business retreats and family reunions. Featuring on-site catering, the Inn boasts an ultra-modern full-service kitchen.

Designed by famous architect John V. Smith, the Inn was completed in 1876 as a private home for philanthropist John Harvey and his family. A recent renovation has restored the building to its original glory with the same careful attention to detail for which its architect was admired. Featuring eight marble fireplaces and a three-story staircase, this Second Empire Detroit mansion often reigned throughout history as the most expensive private home in Detroit. Still remaining today are the furnishing and works of art from an ambitious multi-decade restoration project which began in 1980. The Inn at 97 Winder's latest chapter has only just begun and now stands apart as the ultimate boutique hospitality venue in Detroit.

For reservations or event bookings, visit TheInnAt97Winder.com or contact 888-503-1443.

Contact:
Sari Cicurel
sari.cicurel@gmail.com
248-766-0945

Stephanie Freedman
stephanie@freedmancommunications.com
248-797-9061

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

Executive Chef Jay Gundy gets back to basics to serve savory American cuisine with a contemporary flair.

West Bloomfield, MI -- (ReleaseWire) -- 06/07/2017 -- It all started with a few restaurants, new apartments, condominium developments, parks, and neighborhood stores a short time ago. Since then, Corktown has evolved into one of the hippest neighborhoods in the country for living, shopping, food and drink.

This month Red Dunn Kitchen opens as Detroit's newest culinary addition making Corktown its home. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the 150-seat indoor and outdoor restaurant, features a full-service bar and is designed to accommodate private dinners and events for parties from 10 to 500.

Detroit native, Chef Jay Gundy brings a vast pedigree earned during his years at popular metropolitan Detroit restaurants such as Fiddleheads, Tribute, The Whitney, Cafe Via and Townhouse Birmingham. A known purist, Chef Jay incorporates all-natural, locally sourced ingredients into his menu, with innovative recipe combinations.

"Our seasonal American menu is reminiscent of tried and true classic French technique with an innovative, modern style," states Executive Chef Jay Gundy. "At this point in my career, it's a dream come true to be part of Corktown's resurgence and Detroit's culinary scene."

Located adjacent to the newly renovated Trumbull and Porter boutique hotel, breakfast and lunch at the Red Dunn Kitchen will welcome the downtown business crowd, or the hotel traveler. Such daytime menu favorites include: three playful variations of eggs benedict. Vegan options will be made by request. Dinner guests can expect to dine on dishes such as House Made Artichoke Agnolotti, Blow Torched Yellow Fin Tuna Crudo, and the Red Dunn Burger.

Signature desserts and pastries include Fresh Fried Doughnuts with Dewars Butterscotch Glaze.

Red Dunn Kitchen will also feature limited-seating Chef's Table dinners in its private Steakroom, with a specialty menu designed by Chef Jay, who will be on hand to visit with guests. The full-service bar will feature local Detroit spirits, wine, and craft beer. During warm months, the courtyard and Outdoor Pump Room will be host to a variety of home-grown musical talent, which is sure to be a Corktown favorite.

Dustin Walker, restaurant manager, comes to the Red Dunn Kitchen as the former Beverage Manager of Forte Restaurant and Townhouse in Birmingham and most recently a Manager and Bartender for AFB Hospitality which operates Bistro 82, The Morrie, and SCL Nightclub. Red Dunn Kitchen, along with Trumbull and Porter hotel are managed by the principals of global hospitality firm Access Hotels & Resorts, who had the vision to utilize locally-source companies for the entire renovation of this multi-use property.

"We set out to create modern comfort and style in each of the hotel rooms, meeting spaces and dining areas, while maintaining the urban and gritty style of Detroit," said Barry Caplan, Managing Principal Access Hotels & Resorts. "Corktown has a great energy and we are excited to provide this unique venue for our guests, as they enjoy the city's great new revival."

Detroit-based architects, engineers and construction trade professionals who have made their mark on the project include Patrick Thompson Design leading the renovation of Red Dunn Kitchen and the adjacent Trumbull and Porter hotel along with ROK Construction Services and Columbia Caspian Construction. Colin Tury designed the venue's custom lighting. Artist Don Kilpatrick and Joe Benghaueser, created the original outdoor mural entitled, "I stay even when I go." Detroit Bikes has built a small fleet of bikes for guest use throughout Corktown and downtown Detroit. Restaurant patrons who stay at the Trumbull and Porter hotel will also enjoy numerous Michigan creations such as chairs by Herman Miller, beds and hanging closets by Thompson Millworks, and couches by Grand Rapids Chair.

About Red Dunn Kitchen
Red Dunn Kitchen, RedDunnKitchen.com, is located at 1331 Trumbull Street in Detroit, Michigan. Reservations can be made by calling 313-887-9477.

Media Relations:
Sari Cicurel sari.cicurel@gmail.com or 248-766-0945

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

After visiting over 70 schools and inspiring more than 60,000 students, Kyle Prue is promoting literacy throughout Ohio for at-risk teens.

West Bloomfield, MI -- (ReleaseWire) -- 05/17/2017 -- Kyle Prue began writing the Feud Trilogy at just 16 years old. Now a freshman at the University of Michigan, Prue is the Award-Winning Author of The Sparks. During the books first launch, The Sparks won numerous national and international awards for Best YA Fiction including: state and national awards from the Florida Authors and Publishers Association, the Florida Book Festival, the New England Book Festival, Midwest Book Festival, Southern California Book Festival, and the International London Book Festival. Prue also won International Moonbeam and IndieFab awards for Best Young Author. Prue is re-releasing an updated version of The Sparks with a stunning new cover and additional content. "As a child, I lived in a fantasy world all the time—I was always inventing stories and reenacting fantasy," expressed Prue. "I lived in costumes. I had a cat suit that I particularly loved. My mom would always get me a new costume for Halloween and inevitably I would end up back in my cat suit when it was time to go trick-or-treating."

The Sparks takes place in the city of Altryon, where three families ordained with superpowers have been feuding for centuries. The Vapros can teleport and turn their enemies to ash, the Celerius have super speed and the ability to heal from any wound, and the Taurlum have skin like steel and godlike strength. The story follows Neil Vapros as he attempts to become an assassin to please his overbearing father. After failing his first mission, Neil learns that a sinister new force has awakened. This mysterious new power threatens to shatter the established order and the lives of everyone in Altryon--regardless of their family name or allegiance.

With action and adventure, Prue weaves a story that USA Today calls "otherworldly and relatable. "

Prue, currently an acting major at the University of Michigan, decided to defer his first year of college to finish the next two books of The Feud Trilogy, The Flames (print release date: April 25, 2017) and The Ashes (release TBD). During his year on tour, Prue ran into an unexpected series of events that would ultimately change his life and the lives of the kids he touched in the process.

The entire book is based on a family feud so that was the reason for the series name, Feud. But the individual titles are The Sparks, The Flames and The Ashes; these are symbolic of the Vapros family motto which is "Victory Lies Within the Ashes." The Vapros turn a person to ash when they kill them. For them that is a macabre way of saying, "You have to bust a couple of heads to get what you want." The titles reveal that there is going to be a lot of bloodshed and a climax to this storyline, which we are building up to in the series. This week the audio version of The Sparks is been released and voiced by Jon Eric Preston, an actor with talents in Greek tragedies to avant garde works and who also has his own traveling Children's Theatre groups in Tallahassee FL and Long Beach, CA; and became a SAG BookPAL reader.

At that point Kyle realized he had a chance to make a difference. He founded a non-profit, Sparking Literacy, to pair author visits with book donations for at-risk and underserved students. Thus, far the effort has been a huge success visiting 70 schools and inspiring 60,000 students. Prue is heading back on tour to continue his work to inspire teens to read, write and follow their dreams. He began to working to have numerous events with Beyond Basics and City Year in the Detroit Public Schools as well as many schools in southwest Florida.

Nearly a third of students in Ohio's public schools drop out. The consequences are real: students who drop out are eight times more likely to become incarcerated and three times more likely to be unemployed. When a student drops out of school it has a lasting effect on our communities. That is why this week Prue is traveling throughout Ohio to share a spark in reading!

The mission of Sparking Literacy is simple; inspiring teens to read, write and follow their dreams. Sparkling Literacy is doing this by hosting events in schools with authors of young adult books that appeal to teens. The organization is working with teachers to find creative ways to use these books so teens are excited to read for class. Author's books are donated or subsidized so that teens who struggle with reading have a copy of the book while they are inspired to read. We are also sponsoring badly needed audio books as they are a great tool to help teens with learning difficulties to learn to read and better understand the material. In addition, we are starting Sparking Literacy book clubs in schools to encourage teens to keep reading.

To learn more about Kyle Prue, visit his website at http://www.kyleprue.com.

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

West Bloomfield, MI -- (ReleaseWire) -- 02/28/2017 -- Being a parent is the most incredible job in the world. It is the hardest, most challenging job I've ever had. Most days, it is the most rewarding job - ever. When I stop, and think about my children, I am awash with the biggest love imaginable. My heart is full when I think about these human beings that I'm raising. I can't imagine a world without my daughter and my son.

Four years ago, I thought I was raising two daughters…. that was until my then 14-year-old came to me and told me that she was a he. My younger child, who is now nearly 18, was assigned female at birth. All his life he felt different. He felt like he didn't belong. He felt like the weird kid. Thank god, he figured it out and had the courage to let me in; the courage to finally tell me that he identified as male, that he was transgender.

I wasn't shocked – BUT my head was spinning with questions and emotions and the knowledge that we would help him get what he needed. BUT HOW? I didn't know what it meant to be transgender. I didn't understand one thing about this. But, I was OPEN to possibilities.

That day, my job as parent got a little tougher. Could I love him enough so he could overcome the dysphoria and feelings of otherness? Could I gather enough support and resources so he could transition socially and medically? Would he be able to find a life that welcomed him? Would he have a future? Would he find love and social acceptance?

When we choose to become parents, we don't get to choose what our children will look like or what their interests will be or their hair color, eye color, IQ, etc. What we do get to choose is what kind of parent we'll be. My choice was to love my children unconditionally.

57% of trans youth without parent support have attempted suicide! More than 40% of transgender individuals have attempted suicide. That's about 8 times the norm. When kids don't have parent support, only 15% report have good self-esteem.

My son is one of the lucky ones. I can't imagine turning my back on him because he didn't fit inside some box. A few months back I asked my son how our support has helped him – his words were so profound. He looked at me and answered, "I now have the confidence to be myself. I don't feel ashamed about who I am."

It's easy to over identify with our children's successes and failures. The achievements fill us with pride – we take on their successes as if they were our own. For some, the failures bring embarrassment and shame on the family. That shame sends a big fat message to our children and those around them. It tells them that they are not good enough. They are a disappointment. They are not worthy.

We all have hopes and dreams for our children – some days I need to be reminded that they are my hopes, my dreams, my expectations. NOT my children's dreams and desires.

I really believe that you must love your children unconditionally. That means that you still love and support them even when their dreams are not your dreams. And, by the way, there's a difference between loving them and approving of behavior that is destructive or illegal or dangerous. My kids know that even if I don't like their behavior I don't stop loving them.

As a nation made up of diverse citizens from all walks of life, we have an obligation to embrace differences. We learn from each other. My neighbor's viewpoint may not agree with mine, but I can hear him and at least, try to understand why he sees the world through a different lens. As a nation, it is our job to ensure equality for all; access to the same learning environments and public facilities. Children in school deserve a guarantee that they will not be treated differently because they were born in the wrong body. My son's gender is not defined by his body parts. Just because he was born with a vagina, does not make him a girl. He is a young man. He uses the boys' bathroom at school, he rooms with the boys on class trips, he wears boys' clothes and looks and sounds like a guy. He does not belong in the girls' bathroom.

Over the past 4 years, I've learned how to be more open minded, how to accept something I don't understand, and how to be an ally to the transgender community.

So, hug your kids. Love them unconditionally, teach them to tolerate differences and show them how to accept others even when they don't fully understand. Support organizations such as: Affirmations, Ruth Ellis Center, Stand with Trans, the ACLU, Equality Michigan, NCTE, The LGBTQ Task Force and others who are providing resources for LGBT youth. Reach out in your community and learn how you can be an ally. It does take a village and without the support of peers, community, friends and family, my son would not be able to walk as tall as he does.

Mr. President, I understand that no laws have changed. Title IX protections are still in place. However, by rescinding the specific guidance which supports transgender students, you are sending a message that these kids don't matter. You are telling me and every other parent out there with a transgender child, that our family doesn't matter. Maybe my child has an accepting school and allows him to use the bathroom of his choice. But, what about all the others who don't have that privilege. What should those students do? Tell me.

Submitted by Roz Gould Keith
Parent of a 17-year-old transgender son and a 21 year old cis-gender daughter
Founder, Stand with Trans
Creator, Ally Moms
Blogger, Call Him Hunter

MEDIA REQUEST:
Sari Cicurel sari.cicurel@gmail.com 248-766-0945

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

After visiting over 70 schools and inspiring more than 60,000 students, Kyle Prue is re-releasing his award-winning book The Sparks just ahead of book tour to promote literacy in at-risk teens.

West Bloomfield, MI -- (ReleaseWire) -- 02/27/2017 -- Kyle Prue began writing the Feud Trilogy at just 16 years old. Now a freshman at the University of Michigan, Prue is the Award-Winning Author of The Sparks. During the books first launch, The Sparks won numerous national and international awards for Best YA Fiction including: state and national awards from the Florida Authors and Publishers Association, the Florida Book Festival, the New England Book Festival, Midwest Book Festival, Southern California Book Festival, and the International London Book Festival. Prue also won International Moonbeam and IndieFab awards for Best Young Author. Prue is re-releasing an updated version of The Sparks with a stunning new cover and additional content. "As a child, I lived in a fantasy world all the time—I was always inventing stories and reenacting fantasy," expressed Prue. "I lived in costumes. I had a cat suit that I particularly loved. My mom would always get me a new costume for Halloween and inevitably I would end up back in my cat suit when it was time to go trick-or-treating."

The Sparks takes place in the city of Altryon, where three families ordained with superpowers have been feuding for centuries. The Vapros can teleport and turn their enemies to ash, the Celerius have super speed and the ability to heal from any wound, and the Taurlum have skin like steel and godlike strength. The story follows Neil Vapros as he attempts to become an assassin to please his overbearing father. After failing his first mission, Neil learns that a sinister new force has awakened. This mysterious new power threatens to shatter the established order and the lives of everyone in Altryon--regardless of their family name or allegiance.

With action and adventure, Prue weaves a story that USA Today calls "otherworldly and relatable. "

Prue, currently an acting major at the University of Michigan, decided to defer his first year of college to finish the next two books of The Feud Trilogy, The Flames (print release date: April 25, 2017) and The Ashes (release TBD). During his year on tour, Prue ran into an unexpected series of events that would ultimately change his life and the lives of the kids he touched in the process.

The entire book is based on a family feud so that was the reason for the series name, Feud. But the individual titles are The Sparks, The Flames and The Ashes; these are symbolic of the Vapros family motto which is "Victory Lies Within the Ashes." The Vapros turn a person to ash when they kill them. For them that is a macabre way of saying, "You have to bust a couple of heads to get what you want." The titles reveal that there is going to be a lot of bloodshed and a climax to this storyline, which we are building up to in the series. This week the audio version of The Sparks is been released and voiced by Jon Eric Preston, an actor with talents in Greek tradedies to avant garde works and who also has his own traveling Children's Theatre groups in Tallahassee FL and Long Beach, CA; and became a SAG BookPAL reader.

"A media specialist at a local middle school asked me to speak to three classes of at risk students." shared Kyle. "At the time I was a high school senior in Naples, Florida and had just published The Sparks. The teens were at risk of dropping out of school and some were even at risk of suicide. They were struggling readers and many had never read a book. I spoke with them about some of my middle school struggles, about how writing was an escape for me, and my inspiration for writing The Sparks. Each student also received a free copy of the book. Thus, something powerful happened at that visit. Unexpectedly I started getting calls and emails from teachers and parents. The kids devoured the book, some started a book club and one even started writing his own book."

At that point Kyle realized he had a chance to make a difference. He founded a non-profit, Sparking Literacy, to pair author visits with book donations for at-risk and underserved students. Thus, far the effort has been a huge success visiting 70 schools and inspiring 60,000 students. Prue is heading back on tour to continue his work to inspire teens to read, write and follow their dreams. He began to working to have numerous events with Beyond Basics and City Year in the Detroit Public Schools as well as many schools in southwest Florida.

Nearly a third of students in Detroit's public schools drop out. The consequences are real: students who drop out are eight times more likely to become incarcerated and three times more likely to be unemployed. When a student drops out of school it has a lasting effect on our communities. - City Year Detroit

Media Relations
Sari Cicurel- sari.cicurel@gmail.com 248-766-0945

The mission of Sparking Literacy is simple; inspiring teens to read, write and follow their dreams. Sparkling Literacy is doing this by hosting events in schools with authors of young adult books that appeal to teens. The organization is working with teachers to find creative ways to use these books so teens are excited to read for class. Author's books are donated or subsidized so that teens who struggle with reading have a copy of the book while they are inspired to read. We are also sponsoring badly needed audio books as they are a great tool to help teens with learning difficulties to learn to read and better understand the material. In addition, we are starting Sparking Literacy book clubs in schools to encourage teens to keep reading.

Jon Eric Preston has been performing on stages since the second grade. He grew up in the military, and found a knack for acquiring dialect speech through his extensive travels. After 5 years as lead singer and lyricist for the band Zombie Birdhouse and a semester of studies in London, Preston returned to complete his degree in Theatre from Florida State University in 1997. His stage performances have ranged from lead roles in the Greek tragedies to the avant garde production. He received awards for his Dramatic Interpretation skills while on the Florida State Speech and Debate Team as well. Narrating multiple roles for audiobooks is a natural match and joy for Preston to express through.

To learn more about Kyle Prue, visit his website at http://www.kyleprue.com

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

Jenny Deason Copeland details her theory that Nixon was in direct control of the event and the research she used to shed light on that theory in this just released book.

West Bloomfield, MI -- (ReleaseWire) -- 02/22/2017 -- The Kent State Massacre occurred on May 4, 1970, at Kent State University in Kent, Ohio, and involved the shooting of unarmed college students by members of the Ohio National Guard. It's reported that 67 shots were fired over a period of 13 seconds, resulting in four deaths and nine people being injured. Following on from the shooting, a large national response ensued, with four million students striking and hundreds of universities closing across America.

In Nixon's 1990 edition of his autobiography, RN, he admits to being totally responsible for the event which was ordered by him. His motive though was framed in nebulous terms, "for foreign policy considerations". This book pieces together a plausible theory of what the details of that motive might have been.

"Tiananmen West: Why Nixon Ordered the Kent State Massacre," encompasses decades of research by author, Jenny Deason Copeland, in hopes of replacing conspiracy theories with facts. The FOIA(Freedom of Information Act) requests some interesting new perspectives of not only the Kent State Massacre but how the mind of Richard Nixon could justify such an event. The book ends with a call to action that, if followed, might prevent the U.S. from ever allowing an unfit President to obtain the office again. The evidence presented in the book suggests that Nixon was insane while in office. It also buys into the theory of others that Nixon acted like a Mafia boss. He was a man in charge of a homicidal reign unmatched in America's history. It also suggests that his purpose for the Kent State Massacre was to help him end the Vietnam War using one more of his homicidal, disturbing, psychological twists. In the end, four innocent college students lost their lives. But in the mind of Richard M. Nixon, the ends justified the means.

"Tiananmen West: Why Nixon Ordered the Kent State Massacre," and Vietnam War era historian Copeland explains what happened at Kent State, and then delves into the mind of Richard Nixon to divulge evidence on two topics: Could Nixon have ordered the massacre at Kent State? And his possible motives for doing so. The research behind the theory that Nixon ordered the massacre has covered 30 years and included Freedom of Information Act requests to the FBI, CIA and NSA. The repercussions of this research to the author and her family will also be revealed. The screenplay titled "Tiananmen West" has been shopped around Hollywood.

Some of the students who were shot had been protesting the Cambodian Campaign, announced by President Nixon on April 30. Others were not at the protest, and had been observing from a distance. Several conspiracy theories surround the episode, with some believing the shooting was ordered and some suggesting the guardsmen themselves could have been shot at and were simply retaliating.

About Jenny Deason Copeland
Born in Tiffin, Ohio as the second eldest to a family of four girls. She is an author, historian, and owner of Crazy Red Head Publishing. Copeland has published two children's' books, "New Shoes for Elizabeth" and "A MouseKeeper Christmas: The Beginning." She is a graduate of the University of Toledo and has an almost 40 year career in telecommunications as an engineer and project manager. She has a Six Sigma Black Belt, is LEAN certified and has a PMP certification from the Project Management Institute.

For more information, please visit Crazy Red Head Publishing: http://www.crazyredheadpublishing.com

Amazon Purchase link:
https://www.amazon.com/Tiananmen-West-Nixon-Ordered-Massacre-ebook/dp/B06WLKXG8V/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1487092367&sr=1-1&keywords=Tiananmen+West

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

MusicThroughYou, to hold a concert celebrating all music and the people they represent on Feb 12th from 2:00-3:00 pm

Naples, FL -- (ReleaseWire) -- 02/06/2017 -- YoungMin and Chantelle You, also known as MusicThroughYou, will be hosting a concert at Emmanuel Lutheran Church on Sunday, February 14 from 2-3pm. Join this dynamic musical duo as they combine YoungMin's touching personal testimony with multiple genres of music, showing just what it means to love others through music. The concert is free for all who attend but free will offerings will be accepted if you feel led. Emmanuel Lutheran Church is located at: 777 Mooring Line Dr. Naples, FL 34102.

YoungMin and Chantelle You both graduated from the Wheaton College Conservatory of Music in May of 2016. Since graduation, these two musicians have created a YouTube channel which allows them to post a wide variety of music to a global audience. They then take their covers, arrangements, and original compositions to churches and schools for a live, one-of-a-kind concert. "Love all people. Love all music." is MusicThroughYou's vision statement and will be the basis of their message at their Emmanuel Lutheran Church concert. Their ten day visit to Naples is sponsored by Sparking Literacy, a 501c3 non-profit. "Not only are they fabulously talented, but Young Min has amazing testimony about how music helped him rise above the violence in his life in S. Korea," said Executive Director of Sparking Literacy, Kelly Prue. The group will be visiting schools like the Immokalee Foundation "to demonstrate that finding a passion can help teens to get through whatever hardships they may face in their lives."

For a sneak peak of some of the music that will be featured, you can visit them on YouTube at:
http://www.youtube.com/c/musicthroughyou

Kelly Prue- Sparking Literacy at kellyprue2@comcast.net
Chantelle You 920-676-8916
cyou.music@gmail.com
Website: http://www.musicthroughyou.com
Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/c/musicthroughyou
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/musicthroughyou

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

Gifts that make a lasting impression will mean the most, but what do you do if you haven’t got a clue?

West Bloomfield, MI -- (ReleaseWire) -- 01/23/2017 -- Nothing says "Be My Valentine" more than a box of chocolates, flowers, and a poetic love note. Unless it's a heart-thumping piece of jewelry! Ashley Gold of Pawn Chick Shopping is now entering its second year, and Gold's online store is stocked full of rings, necklaces, earrings, and handbags as well as men's bracelets, cufflinks, money clips, key chains, and children's items. Inventory changes up to five times a week. Shoppers can watch for those changes and look for fashion trends and tips on Gold's jewelry blog.

Buying Valentine's Day gifts with symbols or something built to last says you intend to be around for a while. That's something anyone will really treasure. Heart-shaped jewelry is so traditional that it's a no-brainer but still welcome! Gemstones are another type of symbolism in which to look for inspiration. Rubies, and their rich red color, have traditionally been the gift of love and affection. Consider a concept like "linked." Think "We're linked together by love." Or "We'll stay linked together forever."

The biggest trend this Valentine's Day are all about the message. Jewelry with inspirational messages, fun messages and to the point messages. It isn't just on jewelry this Valentine's Day. The hottest trend is on everything including cute trendy jewelry and cosmetic bags.

For more information about Ashley Gold, visit http://www.PawnChickShopping.com or call 800-914-0248.

About Ashley Gold
In addition to her highly successful jewelry business Pawn Chick Shopping, Ashley Gold frequently blogs and speaks about jewelry fashion in the media, and she also interviews Hollywood's who's who on her weekly radio show, Pawn Chick Radio. Gold continues to travel the world doing appearances, appraising items, and spending time helping clients through her social media consulting practice

Media Inquiries:
Sari Cicurel
Public Relations
sari.cicurel@gmail.com
248-766-0945 (m)

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

What is an Iconic Restaurant? Everyone will have a favorite in this new book about Ann Arbor

West Bloomfield, MI -- (ReleaseWire) -- 01/05/2017 -- From Pizza Bob's to Krazy Jim's and Zingerman's, Ann Arbor has some of the most iconic restaurants in Michigan. Many remember Drake's (tart limeades), Del Rio (the Detburger), and Bicycle Jim's (fried mushrooms), and birthdays at Bimbo's, the city's residents have definite ideas about which eatery serves the best. Come along on a delicious journey into the city's favorite dining spots, some of which have been around for many years. Kickoff to Ann Arbor Restaurant Week

Gail Offen and Jon Milan will be signing their book, "Iconic Restaurants of Ann Arbor"

"Iconic Restaurants of Ann Arbor ," is the newest addition to Arcadia Publishing. Written by local authors Jon Milan and Gail Offen, with an introduction by co-founder of Zingerman's, Ari Weinzweig, (nationally known for his 10 businesses with more than 750 employees and $55 million in annual revenue), the book features more than 150 color images and explores the history of restaurants in the Michigan city.

What is an iconic Ann Arbor restaurant? Ask anyone who has ever spent time there as a student, traveler, or "townie," and they are likely to name several favorites in an instant. The line out the door for raisin toast at Angelo's, Washtenaw Dairy's milkshakes, and the Gandy Dancer's still a favorite for a special occasion. Other favorites included: The Afternoon Delight, the Cottage Inn, and Real Seafood, in Ann Arbor. People are known to have strong feelings about the best places for pizza, coffee, beer, burgers, noodles, and burritos. Although many of the go-to hangouts are long gone, a surprising number still thrive. And there are always a few newcomers coming along to win the hearts of the next generation of diners, nibblers, and noshers. Some are fine restaurants, and others are diners, taverns or carry-outs - but they all are unique and truly iconic local eateries.

The Fleetwood is still there serving hippie hash (hash browns covered in vegetables and topped with feta). The Fleetwood began as the Dag-wood Diner and was constructed by Donald Reid in 1949. The Pretzel Bell is a local rite of passage - countless students spend their 21st birthday drinking and ringing the bell.

For such a free-form joint, Krazy Jim's Blimpy Burger has a particular set of rules for ordering. You could always tell a rookie. The rules involved when to order patties, fryer food, and condiments, among others. That is all part of the charm.

One of the oldest college sports rivalries led to a traveling trophy. And that led to a restaurant, the Jug. The Brown Jug has been on South University Avenue since 1936. University of Michigan memorabilia lines the walls, to the delight of students, alumni, and fans.

The book highlights campus staples that are still around after many years, including Pizza Bobs and Seva. Ann Arbor's restaurant and bar history is tied into one of the most unusual series of laws related to the campus district and prohibition.

This foodie book is complete with photos and excerpts lots of memories and will for sure make you hungry. Though the storefront or location may now differ, the meals taste like memories.

Media Requests:
Sari Cicurel
248-766-0945 sari.cicurel@gmail.com

"Iconic Restaurants of Ann Arbor," $22.95, is available at http://www.arcadiapublishing.com, http://www.amazon.com and http://www.barnesandnoble.com

Kickoff to Ann Arbor Restaurant Week

Gail Offen and Jon Milan will be signing there book, "Iconic Restaurants of Ann Arbor"

Sunday, January 15th at 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm -Malletts Creek Branch Program Room, 3090 E Eisenhower Pkwy, Ann Arbor, MI 48108.

Wednesday, January 18th at 7pm -Literati Bookstore, 124 E Washington St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104.

About Gail Offen
Gail Offen is the author of Grand River Avenue: From Detroit to Lake Michigan, a 2014 book from Arcadia Publishing that she wrote with co-author Jon Milan. A graduate of the University of Michigan, she is a SVP, Creative Director at Doner Advertising and has won awards, including a One Show, Effie and more, plus blue ribbons for baking at the Michigan State Fair. Gail is also an adjunct professor of advertising at Lawrence Technical University. She's always curious to see, eat, and write about what's around every corner.

Jon Milan is a Detroit-based journalist, pianist, composer and historian with three previous Arcadia publications: 2014's Grand River Avenue: From Detroit to Lake Michigan, co- authored with Gail Offen; 2011's Old Chicago Road, and 2009's Detroit: Ragtime and the Jazz Age. Jon has written for The Detroit Metro Times and The Detroit Area Convention and Visitor's Bureau Magazine. He has spent his professional career as a corporate communications manager and gives presentations on the history of Ragtime and early jazz music.

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

Wyatt, the red fox, is very set in his ways, but discovers that trying new things can be fun and exciting. Recommended for Preschool - 3rd grade.

West Bloomfield, MI -- (ReleaseWire) -- 01/05/2017 -- "Just try it Wyatt," is a children's book that teaches the importance of trying new things. The story follows Wyatt, the little fox who is very set in his ways, but discovers that trying new things can be fun and exciting!

Michigan author and former school teacher, Kelsey Fox, loves to write about what she knows best, and all her characters are based on students she has known through her teaching career, children of friends, and of course family. She loves to incorporate what she knows into her work because it makes stories that the reader can relate to and teaches life lessons.

All of Kelsey's books are unique because of three components: the story, the facts, and the interaction. Each book contains a children's story teaching them a little life lesson. Then, there is a factual page with information about one of the animals in the story. Finally, the book ends with an interactive worksheet where the reader can respond to questions about the lessons in the story and how they relate to their life. The illustrations in "Just try it Wyatt," captured the theme of the book with great color, bringing the characters to life for the reader.

"Just try it Wyatt," is the first book in the "Wyatt" series teaching the reader about the importance of trying new things. "For this first book, I want my readers to walk away wanting to try new things," expressed Fox. "I want children to understand that the world is full of endless possibilities and experiences and not to turn things down or away just because they are new or different."

Saturday, January 28th at 11:00am, during story time, at the Madison Heights Library, Kelsey Fox will read for the first time her new book, "Please be quiet Wyatt" and kids favorite, "Just try it Wyatt".

"As a former kindergarten teacher I try to tailor my books to lower elementary levels. I write my books with words that younger children frequent often so they can be active in the reading process," shares Fox. "I also like to introduce newer and more difficult words so their minds are stretched and challenged. I try to keep patterns in my book so they can develop a rhythm and read fluently."

Media Inquiries:
Sari Cicurel sari.cicurel@gmail.com 248-766-0945

Visit the Kelsey Fox's website at http://www.booksbykelseyfox.com

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

After visiting over 70 schools and inspiring more than 60,000 students, Kyle Prue is re-releasing his award-winning book The Sparks just ahead of book tour to promote literacy in at-risk teens.

West Bloomfield, MI -- (ReleaseWire) -- 01/05/2017 -- Kyle Prue began writing the Feud Trilogy at just 16 years old. Now a freshman at the University of Michigan, Prue is the Award Winning Author of The Sparks. During the books first launch, The Sparks won numerous national and international awards for Best YA Fiction including: state and national awards from the Florida Authors and Publishers Association, the Florida Book Festival, the New England Book Festival, Midwest Book Festival, Southern California Book Festival, and the International London Book Festival. Prue also won International Moonbeam and IndieFab awards for Best Young Author. Prue is re-releasing an updated version of The Sparks with a stunning new cover and additional content. (Print and ebook release date: January 31, followed by audiobook February 28, 2017).

The Sparks takes place in the city of Altryon, where three families ordained with superpowers have been feuding for centuries. The Vapros have the ability to teleport and turn their enemies to ash, the Celerius have super speed and the ability to heal from any wound, and the Taurlum have skin like steel and godlike strength. The story follows Neil Vapros as he attempts to become an assassin to please his overbearing father. After failing his first mission, Neil learns that a sinister new force has awakened. This mysterious new power threatens to shatter the established order and the lives of everyone in Altryon--regardless of their family name or allegiance.

With action and adventure, Prue weaves a story that USA Today calls "otherworldly and relatable. "

Sparking Literacy

Prue, currently an acting major at the University of Michigan, decided to defer his first year of college to finish the next two books of The Feud Trilogy, The Flames (print release date: April 25, 2017) and The Ashes (release TBD). During his year on tour, Prue ran into an unexpected series of events that would ultimately change his life and the lives of the kids he touched in the process.

"A media specialist at a local middle school asked me to speak to three classes of at risk students." shared Kyle. "At the time I was a high school senior in Naples, Florida and had just published The Sparks. The teens were at risk of dropping out of school and some were even at risk of suicide. They were struggling readers and many had never read a book. I spoke with them about some of my middle school struggles, about how writing was an escape for me, and my inspiration for writing The Sparks. Each student also received a free copy of the book. As a result, something powerful happened at that visit. Unexpectedly I started getting calls and emails from teachers and parents. The kids devoured the book, some started a book club and one even started writing his own book."

At that point Kyle realized he had a chance to make a difference. He founded a non-profit, Sparking Literacy, to pair author visits with book donations for at-risk and underserved students. Thus far the effort has been a huge success visiting 70 schools and inspiring 60,000 students. Prue is heading back on tour to continue his work to inspire teens to read, write and follow their dreams.

About Kyle Prue
Kyle Prue is an acting major at the University of Michigan, stand-up comedian, and Award Winning Author of the Feud Trilogy. He is releasing the audiobook for The Sparks on Feb 28, 2017, as well as Book II of the series, The Flames, April 25, 2017.

What They Are Saying:

"A crackling read. The Sparks builds a vivid world that is at once otherworldly and relatable. Characters spring from the page in a deft twist on mythology that belies Kyle Prue's young age. He's a voice to be heard." -Scott Bowles, USA Today

To learn more about Kyle Prue:
Visit the website at http://www.kyleprue.com
Facebook.com/kyleprue, Twitter.com/KylePrue, Instagram.com/KylePrueOfficial

Pre-order: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MTX1XL5?ref_=pe_2427780_160035660

Media Inquiries and Questions:
Sari Cicurel, Public Relations
sari.cicurel@gmail.com 248-766-0945 (m)

Booking Agent:
Kelly Prue, kellyprue2@comcast.net, 239-300-1491(m)

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

West Bloomfield, MI -- (ReleaseWire) -- 12/12/2016 -- In this era of online markets, people feel more and more comfortable buying products and services online, however, doing the same for the banking turns out to be a problem. Online banking remains a sensitive because it involves sensitive information and wealth. People face trust issues while transacting online due to lack of enough human interaction. Online banking has been made extremely efficient and accurate by providing customers with everything they want on their screens. However, opening an account online is far more complicated than buying shoes online. Therefore, customers require a great deal of guidance in order to complete complex processes required for online banking.

Applications like video chat and co-browsing from Verishow help the bankers respond instantly to their customer's queries and guide them through complicated transactions online. These applications let the bankers provide customers with a real – time and an in – store experience. Since customers can see and talk to the bankers directly, they start trusting them. According to, Live Chat for Banking: increase Trust With Video Chat, globally, 7 in 10 consumers and 92% of bankers are comfortable communicating using virtual technology. Most of them would like having access to their accounts online but wouldn't go for any further complicated transactions without assistance.

Video Chat and Co-browsing make customers feel secure and convenient while transacting

These applications are modern solutions, with the help of which, agents can not only provide advice and guidance to new customers but also retain old customers by satisfying them. Great customer service plays a great role in customer retention. This leads to more conversions and sales for the sector.

Here are a number of benefits that applications like video chat and co-browsing provide to the banking industry:

-Builds trust and goodwill: Once the customer knows that an agent is handling all of his personal information on the other side securely, he will start trusting the agent and go on to complete even more complex and complicated transactions.

-Reduces call handling time: According to, Co-browsing presents a lucrative customer service opportunity, co-browsing can significantly reduce call handling times and push agent utilization by 4.7%. It also improves first call resolution and increases customer satisfaction scores.

-Increases conversions and sales: With the use of co-browsing and video chat, issue resolution becomes fast paced. This leads to satisfied and happier customers. When customers are happy and satisfied with the bank, they tend to transact bigger and better. They also use word – of – mouth to tell others how the bank is treating them well.

-Better solutions: When the agent keeps conversing with the customers via video chat or co-browsing, the details and preferences of all customers get saved and noted down. This helps the banking agents in providing specially tailored solutions and services to each of their customers, with their personal choices kept on priority.

Video chat and co-browsing prove to be the ultimate tool for the banking industry as it not only helps in improving the customer service, but these services also improve efficiency of the banks since customers can convey their preferences to agents directly and from anywhere.

About HBRlabs and VeriShow
HBR Labs LLC, the parent company of VeriShow.com, was founded in 2010 to develop and market advanced, simple-to-use, web-based collaboration solutions, so companies can help customer's in-person to complete complex transactions online. VeriShow offers companies APIs for each engagement application (audio/video chat, co-browsing, and content sharing) and every company can use VeriShow's capabilities in any way needed. Verishow utilizes the latest and best available technology standards that provides high quality products with low latency synchronization. The team is led by CEO Yuval Moed with support from a number of Michigan- based private investment groups including Lis Ventures and Gal-Mar. The company's R&D facilities are located in Israel; its corporate headquarters are located in Farmington Hills, Michigan. http://www.verishow.com/

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

West Bloomfield, MI -- (ReleaseWire) -- 12/12/2016 -- In the present-day several forms of communication have come to exist as a way to exchange important information. Verishow has many platforms including Video conferences, phone calls, emails, short message service(SMS) are most common, while technological developments keep on adding to the list of present ones. The modern-day business leaders keep on seeking high-tech and ultra-fast ways of communication that could keep them ahead in the race of competition. As a matter of fact, the earlier ubiquitous face-to-face communications have come to get considered as obsolete in a business environment as managers keep on laying stress on exchange of loads of information within minimum possible time.

Admittedly, face-to-face communication has its inherent advantages that could play a significant role in a business environment.

Although speed matters the most in communication, the modern business leaders grossly underrate the real need for human interaction in a face-to-face communication. Business owners negate it as slow, time-consuming, and expensive way of communicating, whereas technologically enabled solutions are much faster, allowing a human to perform multiple tasks at a single point of time. This argument grossly undervalues the fact that although slow, face-to-face communication could only shapes up leadership qualities in the participants. It is the only surefire way of communication, which is productive and smooth that could justifiably bring result in a human interaction with a reasonable speed.

Business has always stayed a fertile ground for building relationship, where sharing and caring through human relationship play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the business. Highly skilled teamwork is only possible through engaging and fruitful face-to-face communication, where ideation about new concepts in business, planning for superior execution of tasks, and honing of leadership skills in the members of the team are possible to a great extent.

Through participative and effective face-to-face communication, the business house could build up trust and understanding in the participants as it sharpens the ability of the members to participate in a group discussion. It develops emotional intelligence, while giving impetus to drive and discipline in the teamwork of the group of participants. The face-to-face interaction always gives the satisfaction of shared mission to the people getting involved through this. Even the top echelon in the management could interact with the people, working at the lowest rung of rank and file. It gives all the members the immense satisfaction from listening to the viewpoints of others and voicing their opinions in a group of dynamic individuals (Face-to-face Interactions).

Sadly, it has always stayed the practice to assign a fresh task via email or other form of written communication. While such communication delivers the message perfectly but it fails to assign properly. In case of face-to-face communication, the assignor could make the performer completely aware of the whole process of work and steps involved therein. This helps the former understand the ability of the latter and necessity for additional guidance.

In case of face-to-face interactions, one could judge from the reaction of other person. Here the former could make an assessment of non-verbal cues and tone of voice of the latter and know the feelings on a particular topic. But this is absent, when exchange of communication takes place through an email, phone, or an instant messenger. Face-to-face communication helps to create valuable impression from the expression and body language of the other person. Data available from such communication could become valuable information for decision-making on important matters (Interpret reactions).

Just imagine a situation, where the manager or the business leader wants to convey a unpopular decision. For instance, when it is about cutting down the official perquisites or perks, usually the executive sends an email mentioning the new decision, which is more or less a change in policy by the company. But when he conveys it in a face-to-face interaction, it shows his confidence about the rationale behind the decision and it proves that that management is ready to own up the responsibility of the action taken or decision made.

About HBRlabs and VeriShow
HBR Labs LLC, the parent company of VeriShow.com, was founded in 2010 to develop and market advanced, simple-to-use, web-based collaboration solutions, so companies can help customer's in-person to complete complex transactions online. VeriShow offers companies APIs for each engagement application (audio/video chat, co-browsing, and content sharing) and every company can use VeriShow's capabilities in any way needed. Verishow utilizes the latest and best available technology standards that provides high quality products with low latency synchronization. The team is led by CEO Yuval Moed with support from a number of Michigan- based private investment groups including Lis Ventures and Gal-Mar. The company's R&D facilities are located in Israel; its corporate headquarters are located in Farmington Hills, Michigan. http://www.verishow.com/

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

West Bloomfield, MI -- (ReleaseWire) -- 11/29/2016 -- Contact: Alicia Stillman
The Emily Stillman Foundation
Phone: 248-568-8014
emilystillmanfoundation@gmail.com
http://www.ForeverEmily.org

Contact: Patti Wukovits
The Kimberly Coffey Foundation
Phone: 516-982-1433
Patti@kimberlycoffeyfoundation.org
http://www.KimberlyCoffeyFoundation.org

Each of these four 'MenB Strong Moms' lost a healthy teen child to a horrifying disease known as group B meningococcal disease (MenB). At the time, the disease couldn't be prevented. Today, thanks to a new vaccine, it can. But many of the kids who should be getting the vaccine still don't know it exists. This is why they produced the "Meningitis B Shatters Dreams," PSA. They hope to educate young adults and their parents about the availability of the MenB vaccine and encourage vaccination when kids are home over the holidays.

Most kids receive a meningococcal vaccine known as MenACWY, but it does not prevent MenB which accounts for half of all meningococcal cases in the U.S. among 17-23 year-olds. It has also been responsible for several outbreaks on college campuses in the past few years.

Although it has been over a year since the CDC announced a recommendation for 16-23 year-olds to receive the MenB vaccine, many doctors are still not mentioning it to their patients, and most parents and young adults don't realize the vaccine exists.

"We all had our kids vaccinated and thought they were protected." explains Patti Wukovits, RN and Director of, The Kimberly Coffey Foundation, as she clutches a photo of her daughter. "What we didn't know was that the vaccine they received didn't protect them from one of the most common types of meningococcal disease, the one that would kill them - group B. I'm a registered nurse, and I didn't know. Now I've learned that most other medical professionals don't know either."

Alicia Stillman, Director of The Emily Stillman Foundation, explains, "People need to know that the early symptoms of meningococcal disease are often mistaken for other illnesses. They need to know that the disease can turn deadly in as little as 24 hours. And they need to know that teens are at a high risk of infection. But more importantly, they need to know that kids need both the MenB and the MenACWY vaccines in order to be fully protected against all five of the preventable types of meningococcal disease."

Patti adds, "I couldn't protect my daughter. But now a vaccine exists and kids are still not protected. It scares me to think that kids are getting the MenACWY vaccine, but don't know they need a separate MenB vaccine too. Their parents think they're fully protected, but they're not. How will they feel when their child is the next victim? We believe it is our responsibility to warn them. That is what our kids would want us to do."

"Our kids have brought us together and their message is loud and clear in this PSA." says Alicia. "We don't want parents to have to bury their children like we have, and we want kids to take it upon themselves to get protected and ask for the MenB vaccine." adds Alicia Stillman.

The "Meningitis B Shatters Dreams," PSA has been created by a special partnership between The Kimberly Coffey Foundation and The Emily Stillman Foundation and is available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UyPxUVzpelw.

Facts about meningococcal disease in young adults:

- 1 in 10 teens and young adults who develop meningococcal disease will die from it, sometimes within 24 hours.

- 3 in 5 teen survivors will suffer significant physical and mental disabilities, ranging from deafness, nervous system problems, brain damage, or loss of limbs.

- Typical teen behaviors, such as living in close quarters, hanging out in large groups, sharing drinks or utensils, and kissing, all increase the risk of meningococcal disease.

- About 1 out of 10 people have the bacterium that causes meningococcal disease in the back of their nose and throat with no signs or symptoms of disease.

These are the stories of the children of the 'MenB Strong Moms':

Emily Stillman (19) was a sophomore at Kalamazoo College in Michigan, working towards a double major in Psychology and Theatre. Her dream was to be on Saturday Night Live. One night, Emily called home complaining of a headache. It got so bad she went to the hospital, where they treated it as a migraine. By the next morning she was in a coma. Within 30 hours she was brain dead.

Kimberly Coffey (17) was a high school senior from Long Island, New York who was already en-rolled in college with a plan to fulfill her dream of becoming a pediatric nurse. One afternoon Kim complained of fever and body aches. Within hours she developed a purplish blotchy rash all over her body. She was rushed to the hospital, but her heart, kidneys and lungs were already failing and she went into cardiac arrest. She was declared brain dead nine days later and was buried in her prom dress two days before her high school graduation.

Emily Benatar (19) was a freshman at Washington University in St. Louis, who excelled in school and had a passion for art. One afternoon she called home to say she had pain in her sternum and was vomiting. A friend took her to the ER but they released her, telling her to take Tylenol and drink Gatorade. The next day she went to the Student Health Center with a hive-like rash, but not the purplish rash commonly associated with meningococcal disease. They sent her back to her dorm. That evening, within 24 hours of her initial trip to the ER, she became numb and then unresponsive. After twenty-one days in the ICU, she died.

Henry Mackaman (21) was a junior at UW Madison, majoring in Economics and Creative Writing. His band, Phantom Vibration, had a song on local radio stations, and he wrote a prize winning play that was performed at the Student Union. He had dreamed of writing a great American novel. One night Henry went to the ER because he felt sick and had a fever of 104 degrees. They sent him home. The next night he returned with slurred speech and numbness on his right side. Six hours later he had a seizure and never regained consciousness. Two days later he was declared brain dead.

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

Popular trends include layering techniques and using accessories to turn a daytime look into an evening outfit

West Bloomfield, MI -- (ReleaseWire) -- 11/29/2016 -- As we enter the gift giving season, shopping for parents, kids, relatives, friends, or anyone else on your holiday list is easy when knowing there is always a way to apply today's style to their gift.

Ashley Gold started working in her family's pawnshop at a young age. Even then, she knew that she knew she loved to negotiate a deal. So she studied Business at Michigan State University and at the Gemological Institute of America, where she received her certification in diamonds.

After many years of working with her family, and a successful nine seasons on TruTV's Hardcore Pawn, she left her family business and started Pawn Chick Shopping a website that sells the most incredible new jewelry and accessories. "I work with top jewelry designers and get the latest fashion trends and now enjoy dressing the everyday woman and man along with celebrities," she says. Gold knows the ins and outs of the jewelry fashion business. "Assisting my customers in person at shows and online is very natural."

Pawn Chick Shopping is now entering its second holiday season, and Gold's online store is stocked full of rings, necklaces, earrings, handbags and men's bracelets, cufflinks, money clips, key chains and more. As a mom, she knows it is important to have children's items, too. Inventory changes up to five times a week. Shoppers watch for those changes and look for fashion trends and tips on her jewelry blog.

"This time of year, one of the questions I am asked most often is how best to transition a simple outfit from day to evening. My answer is always 'accessories.' Even a black and white outfit can go from casual to glam with just a few added pieces."

"My favorite jewelry practice in quickly turning a day look into evening look is layering. Taking two pieces and layering them makes the look so much more interesting," notes Gold. There are no rules when it comes to layering. The everyday necklaces and rings added with evening pieces make anyone ready for the holidays and gift buying easy. Gold says be open to layering colors, metals for an interesting look.

Bracelets are fun and easy to layer. Simply adding a special piece can turn any daytime look into that special night out or holiday party. There are a couple ways to layer bracelets: you can buy a set of bracelets or mix and match different ones. Remember there are no rules. Both are great options to add some depth to your accessory style!

This holiday, Gold has noticed the pieces selling quickly are ones that can be worn multiple ways in addition to being layered. Not only are you getting the best bang for your buck, but your gift just went from one to two gifts, such as the versatility of wearing a necklace also as a bracelet.

For more information about Ashley Gold, visit PawnChickShopping.com or call 800-914-0248.

A few fashion trends and tips to transition from day to evening:

A day look for a women wearing a suit to work

Wear an earring jacket and a cubic zirconia (cz) or diamond bracelet for a simple and conservative look with a long or short necklace.

Transition to a daytime outfit to a nighttime function

Roll up the sleeves and add bangle bracelets and an earring jacket to make the statement while adding the charms to the subtle chain necklace and stacked rings.

About Ashley Gold
In addition to her highly successful jewelry business Pawn Chick Shopping, Ashley Gold frequently blogs and speaks about jewelry fashion in the media, and she also interviews Hollywood's who's who on her weekly radio show, Pawn Chick Radio. Gold continues to travel the world doing appearances, appraising items, and spending time helping clients through her social media consulting practice.

Media Inquiries:
Sari Cicurel
Public Relations
sari.cicurel@gmail.com
248-766-0945 (m)

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

Their teens died of Meningitis B, but a new vaccine has united them in a mission to save others.

West Bloomfield, MI -- (ReleaseWire) -- 11/29/2016 -- Each of these four 'MenB Strong Moms' lost a healthy teen child to a horrifying disease known as group B meningococcal disease (MenB). At the time, the disease couldn't be prevented. Today, thanks to a new vaccine, it can. But many of the kids who should be getting the vaccine still don't know it exists. This is why they produced the Meningitis B Shatters Dreams PSA. They hope to educate young adults and their parents about the availability of the MenB vaccine and encourage vaccination when kids are home over the holidays.

Most kids receive a meningococcal vaccine known as MenACWY, but it does not prevent MenB which accounts for half of all meningococcal cases in the U.S. among 17-23 year olds. It has also been responsible for several outbreaks on college campuses in the past few years.

Although it has been over a year since the CDC announced a recommendation for 16-23 year olds to receive the MenB vaccine, many doctors are still not mentioning it to their patients, and most parents and young adults don't realize the vaccine exists.

"We all had our kids vaccinated and thought they were protected." explains Patti Wukovits, RN and Di-rector of The Kimberly Coffey Foundation, as she clutches a photo of her daughter. "What we didn't know was that the vaccine they received didn't protect them from one of the most common types of meningococcal disease, the one that would kill them - group B. I'm a registered nurse, and I didn't know. Now I've learned that most other medical professionals don't know either."

Alicia Stillman, Director of The Emily Stillman Foundation, explains, "People need to know that the early symptoms of meningococcal disease are often mistaken for other illnesses. They need to know that the disease can turn deadly in as little as 24 hours. And they need to know that teens are at a high risk of infection. But more importantly, they need to know that kids need both the MenB and the MenACWY vaccines in order to be fully protected against all five of the preventable types of meningococcal disease."

Patti adds, "I couldn't protect my daughter. But now a vaccine exists and kids are still not protected. It scares me to think that kids are getting the MenACWY vaccine, but don't know they need a separate MenB vaccine too. Their parents think they're fully protected, but they're not. How will they feel when their child is the next victim? We believe it is our responsibility to warn them. That is what our kids would want us to do."

"Our kids have brought us together and their message is loud and clear in this PSA." says Alicia. "We don't want parents to have to bury their children like we have, and we want kids to take it upon them-selves to get protected and ask for the MenB vaccine." adds Alicia Stillman.

The Meningitis B Shatters Dreams PSA has been created by a special partnership between The Kimberly Coffey Foundation and The Emily Stillman Foundation and is available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UyPxUVzpelw.

Facts about meningococcal disease in young adults:

-1 in 10 teens and young adults who develop meningococcal disease will die from it, sometimes within 24 hours.

-3 in 5 teen survivors will suffer significant physical and mental disabilities, ranging from deafness, nervous system problems, brain damage, or loss of limbs.

-Typical teen behaviors, such as living in close quarters, hanging out in large groups, sharing drinks or utensils, and kissing, all increase the risk of meningococcal disease.

-About 1 out of 10 people have the bacterium that causes meningococcal disease in the back of their nose and throat with no signs or symptoms of disease.

These are the stories of the children of the 'MenB Strong Moms':

Emily Stillman (19) was a sophomore at Kalamazoo College in Michigan, working towards a double major in Psychology and Theatre. Her dream was to be on Saturday Night Live. One night, Emily called home complaining of a headache. It got so bad she went to the hospital, where they treated it as a migraine. By the next morning she was in a coma. Within 30 hours she was brain dead.

Kimberly Coffey (17) was a high school senior from Long Island, New York who was already en-rolled in college with a plan to fulfill her dream of becoming a pediatric nurse. One afternoon Kim complained of fever and body aches. Within hours she developed a purplish blotchy rash all over her body. She was rushed to the hospital, but her heart, kidneys and lungs were already failing and she went into cardiac arrest. She was declared brain dead nine days later and was buried in her prom dress two days before her high school graduation.

Emily Benatar (19) was a freshman at Washington University in St. Louis, who excelled in school and had a passion for art. One afternoon she called home to say she had pain in her sternum and was vomiting. A friend took her to the ER but they released her, telling her to take Tylenol and drink Gatorade. The next day she went to the Student Health Center with a hive-like rash, but not the purplish rash commonly associated with meningococcal disease. They sent her back to her dorm. That evening, within 24 hours of her initial trip to the ER, she became numb and then unresponsive. After twenty-one days in the ICU, she died.

Henry Mackaman (21) was a junior at UW Madison, majoring in Economics and Creative Writing. His band,Phantom Vibration,had a song on local radio stations, and he wrote a prize winning play that was performed at the Student Union. He had dreamed of writing a great American novel. One night Henry went to the ER because he felt sick and had a fever of 104 degrees. They sent him home. The next night he returned with slurred speech and numbness on his right side. Six hours later he had a seizure and never regained consciousness. Two days later he was declared brain dead.

Contacts:

Alicia Stillman
The Emily Stillman Foundation
Phone: 248-568-8014
Patti@kimberlycoffeyfoundation.org
http://www.ForeverEmily.org

Patti Wukovits
The Kimberly Coffey Foundation
Phone: 516-982-1433
emilystillmanfoundation@gmail.com
http://www.KimberlyCoffeyFoundation.org

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

A book for all foodies and especially University of Michigan alums

West Bloomfield, MI -- (ReleaseWire) -- 11/23/2016 -- From Pizza Bob's to Krazy Jim's and Zingerman's, Ann Arbor has some of the most iconic restaurants in Michigan. Many remember Drake's (tart limeades), Del Rio (the Detburger), and Bicycle Jim's (fried mushrooms), and birthdays at Bimbo's, the city's residents have definite ideas about which eatery serves the best. Come along on a delicious journey into the city's favorite dining spots, some of which have been around for many years.

Iconic Restaurants of Ann Arbor is the newest addition to Arcadia Publishing. Written by local authors Jon Milan and Gail Offen, with an introduction by co-founder of Zingerman's, Ari Weinzweig, (nationally known for his 10 businesses with more than 750 employees and $55 million in annual revenue), the book features more than 150 color images and explores the history of restaurants in the Michigan city.

What is an iconic Ann Arbor restaurant? Ask anyone who has ever spent time there as a student, traveler, or "townie," and they are likely to name several favorites in an instant. The line out the door for raisin toast at Angelo's, Washtenaw Dairy's milkshakes, and the Gandy Dancer's still a favorite for a special occasion. Other favorites included: The Afternoon Delight, the Cottage Inn, and Real Seafood, in Ann Arbor. People are known to have strong feelings about the best places for pizza, coffee, beer, burgers, noodles, and burritos. Although many of the go-to hangouts are long gone, a surprising number still thrive. And there are always a few newcomers coming along to win the hearts of the next generation of diners, nibblers, and noshers. Some are fine restaurants, and others are diners, taverns or carry-outs - but they all are unique and truly iconic local eateries.

The Fleetwood is still there serving hippie hash (hash browns covered in vegetables and topped with feta). The Fleetwood began as the Dag-wood Diner and was constructed by Donald Reid in 1949.

The Pretzel Bell is a local rite of passage - countless students spend their 21st birthday drinking and ringing the bell.

For such a free-form joint, Krazy Jim's Blimpy Burger has a particular set of rules for ordering. You could always tell a rookie. The rules involved when to order patties, fryer food, and condiments, among others. That is all part of the charm.

One of the oldest college sports rivalries led to a traveling trophy. And that led to a restaurant, the Jug. The Brown Jug has been on South University Avenue since 1936. University of Michigan memorabilia lines the walls, to the delight of students, alumni, and fans.

The book highlights campus staples that are still around after many years, including Pizza Bobs and Seva.

Ann Arbor's restaurant and bar history is tied into one of the most unusual series of laws related to the campus district and prohibition.

This foodie book is complete with photos and excerpts lots of memories and will for sure make you hungry. Though the storefront or location may now differ, the meals taste like memories.

"Iconic Restaurants of Ann Arbor," $22.95, is available at arcadiapublishing.com, amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com

MEDIA INQUIRIES:
SARI CICUREL
sari.cicurel@gmail.com

About Gail Offen
Gail Offen is the author of Grand River Avenue: From Detroit to Lake Michigan, a 2014 book from Arcadia Publishing that she wrote with co-author Jon Milan. A graduate of the University of Michigan, she is a SVP, Creative Director at Doner Advertising and has won awards, including a One Show, Effie and more, plus blue ribbons for baking at the Michigan State Fair. Gail is also an adjunct professor of advertising at Lawrence Technical University. She's always curious to see, eat, and write about what's around every corner.

About Jon Milan
Jon Milan is a Detroit-based journalist, pianist, composer and historian with three previous Arcadia publications: 2014's Grand River Avenue: From Detroit to Lake Michigan, co- authored with Gail Offen; 2011's Old Chicago Road, and 2009's Detroit: Ragtime and the Jazz Age. Jon has written for The Detroit Metro Times and The Detroit Area Convention and Visitor's Bureau Magazine. He has spent his professional career as a corporate communications manager and gives presentations on the history of Ragtime and early jazz music.

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

West Bloomfield, MI -- (ReleaseWire) -- 11/08/2016 -- "A MouseKeeper Christmas: The Beginning," introduces a new game of hide and seek to play with your kids from Thanksgiving until Christmas. It is the start of a new Christmas tradition to help entertain playful and adorable mice. "A MouseKeeper Christmas: The Beginning." is about a six year old first grader, Sara, who solves Santa's toy production problems and saves Christmas. A little known fact of Santa's North Pole world is that the elves have pet mice that are supposed to test the toys but end up destroying way too many. This is a crucial bit of data for this story about a six year old heroine, Sara, who solved Santa's toy production problems and saved Christmas. The pet mice were originally supposed to test the toys but now end up destroying way too many. And the Naughty Lists are drying up. Santa has a problem. The North Pole toy factory just can't produce enough toys unless something changes. Santa sends out a contest looking for solutions and Sara's idea wins. Now they struggle to implement the solution. How does Sara solve Santa's problems? With Data. The book demonstrates how data can be used to solve a problem. This book also teaches children how to be MouseKeepers of North Pole mice and provides a fun game to entertain the young ones between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Merry Christmas to all and to all a Mouse Night.

Here are just a few ways a parent keep help with activities from Thanksgiving to Christmas

- Prior to Thanksgiving Eve: Make sure that the children will each have a stuffed mouse ready to arrive on Thanksgiving morn.

- Help the children remember to play hide and seek with their mouse many times a day.

- Help the children remember to take their mouse to bed with them.

- Help the mice remember to get up in the middle of the night to feed. Who knows where the children will discover them in the morning. Usually they'll hide in the fridge or a cookie jar but sometimes they get sneaky with their hiding places.

- Help the mice and their MouseKeepers dress in matching scarves and mittens and hats. They both love that.

A free companion coloring book is available on the author's website along with exciting parenting ideas to entertain kids between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Author Jenny Deason Copeland has also written another novel in time for the holidays, "New Shoes for Elizabeth". Inspired by true events, this tween age chapter book is a fictional account of a Depression era Christmas. The thirteen year old heroine and her five brothers were enjoying all the fun of life on the farm when their father lost part of his hand in a farming accident. Learn how Elizabeth helps turn what should have been a present-less Christmas into the most memorable one she would ever have. The book illustrates the way of life before the age of TV and the Internet. It was a time when catching frogs and making forts in the barn's hay loft were the best entertainments around. They also played jump rope with their pet lamb. It is a heart-warming holiday story about another time and about how life was lived on a share cropping farm in the Midwest during the worst economic downturn the world's economy has known. Survival wasn't a guarantee at all. But this family made it through together and had a very Merry Christmas after all.

A Christmas story set in Depression Era 1939 which was inspired by a true events. Thirteen year old Elizabeth knew her parents were worried about money, but even through the papers said it was the worst depression they'd seen, she didn't mind. Too little money and too little food wasn't enough to keep them down...until her father lost part of his hand in a farming accident.

Elizabeth knew her parents were worried about money, but even through the papers said it was the worst depression they'd seen, she didn't mind. Too little money and too little food wasn't enough to keep them down...until her father lost part of his hand to a piece of farm equipment. For the first time, Elizabeth and her family had to turn to charity for food and basic necessities. When her grandparents came to America, they had said anyone who worked hard could make it here, but that was starting to look doubtful in the face of the Great Depression and personal misfortunes. Inspired by true Depression era events, a thirteen year old girl manages to take on the town authorities and give her five brothers their best Christmas ever. There are humorous and heartfelt moments throughout. Find out how she managed to make it the best Christmas ever for herself and her five brothers even though she was penniless. Wishes do come true. Merry Christmas!

These books are available on the Crazy Red Head Publishing site on amazon and at Crazy Red Head Publishing http://www.crazyredheadpublishing.com.

About Jeanette Deason
Jeanette Christine Deason born in Tiffin, Ohio as the second eldest to a family of four girls, Jenny graduated from Toledo University, with honors and began a now 38 year career in telecommunications. She is an author, historian, and owner of Crazy Red Head Publishing. Jenny has published two children's' books, "New Shoes for Elizabeth" and "A MouseKeeper Christmas: The Beginning." This fall she released, "Tiananmen West: Why Nixon Ordered the Kent State Massacre," detailing her theory that Nixon was in direct control of the event.

For more information, visit http://www.crazyredheadpublishing.com Crazy Red Head Publishing.

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

West Bloomfield, MI -- (ReleaseWire) -- 11/07/2016 -- Dr. Michael Hagan says he has had three lives. First, as an emergency doctor before getting Hepatitis B. Second as a Vice President of a 600 bed hospital until he relapsed with liver damage which brought him to his third life working for Gift of Life Michigan. The Emily Stillman Foundation has invited Dr. Michael Hagan, Director of Quality Improvement and Regulatory Compliance for Gift of Life-Michigan, to be the keynote speaker at on Friday, November 18th during Donor Shabbat at Temple Shir Shalom (3999 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield MI 48323) at 7:30pm. This is a celebration of the beauty and miracle of organ donation.

After graduating from Midwestern University, Dr. Hagan began his career as an Emergency Room physician in Michigan. For nearly 10 years he enjoyed his work until he contracted hepatitis B from a patient in the ER. "At the time we didn't wear gowns, gloves, or goggles," Dr. Hagan told the audience. "I urge all of you to use the universal protection that is available."

His disease made it impossible for him to continue his career as a physician and it soon became apparent that his only treatment option was a liver transplant. He waited 24 months for transplant surgery. His doctors informed him that at the time of surgery his liver only weighed half a pound as opposed to the typical four to five pounds. "The surgery went very well and when I recovered I felt a renewed sense of energy and vitality that I haven't felt for years.

Without the transplant surgery, I would have had less than one week to live," he said. After his surgery, Dr. Hagan felt compelled to thank the donor family for making his life possible. Donor confidentiality rules are very strict and require that both the donors and recipients remain anonymous. Dr. Hagan wrote an anonymous letter which was delivered to the family by the Gift of Life organization. His initial letter was not answered. However, Dr. Hagan did not give up and the story about his search for his donor family could easily be a movie plot involving incredible strokes of luck, a horrific murder of an innocent bystander, and courtroom drama. While remaining respectful of donor confidentially, Dr. Hagan was eventually able to thank his donor family in person and remains in contact with them to this day.

"It's been 13 years since my transplant. Just the fact that I wake up every day, I say thank you to God and to my donor family," he shared.

In light of his own recovery and the work he does on behalf of Gift of Life, Dr. Hagan has made it his life's purpose to promote organ donation. "Currently there are 114,000 people waiting for an organ transplant and on average only 8,000 donors in a year," he makes clear whenever he speaks.

In February 2013, 19-year-old Emily Stillman was declared brain dead from a strain of meningitis called serogroup B. Alicia and Michael Stillman were informed that Gift of Life Michigan, the state's only federally designated organ recovery program, would be speaking with them.

After discussing organ donation with Rabbi Michael Moskowitz, of Temple Shir Shalom in West Bloomfield, the Stillmans decided to donate Emily's heart, one lung, both kidneys, her liver and her pancreas. The organs were donated to five people, ultimately saving the lives of all the recipients. Countless others were saved with Emily's bones and tissue. In death, Emily became a hero.

Following Emily's death, the Emily Stillman Foundation was created to raise awareness for organ and tissue donation so that one day there is no need for a waiting list. In addition, they advocate for all strains of meningococcal disease as well as all other vaccine preventable diseases. The foundation provides vaccinations for those who cannot afford them. In 2016 The Foundation adopted the third of the trifold mission, which is to advocate globally for all health and wellness issues. The Foundation has made an impact around the globe.

For more information about the event, visit http://www.foreveremily.org.

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