Send2Press Newswire

High Gas Prices Cause People to Opt for 'Staycations' and Invest in Home

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 10:34:22 GMT

PRINCETON, N.J., July 3 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- What's a "staycation" you ask? It's a vacation spent at home, and more and more people are re-discovering the advantages to staying at home to renew and restore the senses while padding the pocketbook. And, Patio World Home & Hearth is working to ensure people maximize their "staycations."

In lieu of high gas prices, the weakening dollar, financial uncertainty, and airport nightmares, stress levels are at an all-time high - just when people need a vacation the most.

And, when bodies are stressed, an array of health problems can arise. These may include: difficulty sleeping and concentrating, panic attacks, neck and back pain, ulcers, rise in blood pressure, digestion problems, depression, heart attacks, and a compromised immune system.

So, what's a person to do? A staycation is a viable alternative. It also provides time to reconnect with family, neighbors and friends.

Business entertaining at home is also on the rise. Dining out, while still popular, is lately getting some serious competition from its counterpart - dining at home.

Perry Arons, CEO of one of the largest chain of patio stores on the east coast, Patio World Home & Hearth, says, "More and more people are recognizing that entertaining in a comfortable and elegant, open-air entertainment room not only helps to build a personal rapport, but also helps to weather economic uncertainty."

Well-appointed outdoor entertaining areas can turn a home into a vacation or business destination. According to Consumer Reports, by creating inviting outdoor living space, people can also increase their home's value.

And, in today's depressed real estate market, the second most likely home-remodeling project is outdoor entertaining space. Many outdoor spaces are also designed to be the focal point of a home.

Arons sums up this new awareness. He explains that, "Our customers are asking us to design, implement and furnish outdoor areas that rival the best of any quaint Caribbean hotel or high-end resort."

Patio World Home & Hearth does complete makeovers with marble-top tables for dining; fire pits and cafe sets for intimate or private talks; pergolas and gazebos to resemble a faraway oasis; large fountains to eliminate exterior noise; and elite, gourmet grills containing storage, sinks and refrigerators.

"Place some vibrant throws and pillows for accent color; add a few old-fashioned, but fashionable bronze standing fans and patio heaters to counter a hot or cool evening, and a getaway that is worlds away is simply a few feet away," Arons says.

Patio World Home & Hearth offers a large selection of furniture and seating arrangements for immediate delivery, and free in-house designing and shipping to anywhere in the world.

"The best part of this 'taking the inside out' phenomenon," Arons explains, "is that parents no longer have to answer to 'are we there yet,' and since men are notoriously the grillers, men can grill while women chill."

For more information, visit: www.patioworld.com.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, staycations for summer patios, Patio World Home and Hearth

Virtual Shopping Mall Knows What Women Want

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 12:34:45 GMT

CHICAGO, Ill., July 2 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Chris Parrish, creator and owner of ShopLadyZone.com, knows what women want and need. As a result, he created a virtual mall to save them time and money while offering unique and practical products. "I created ShopLadyZone exclusively for women," Parrish says.

ShopLadyZone.com currently has over 164 stores in total. In addition to clothing and fashion accessories, they also have vendors for home decor, travel, entertainment and more.

Parrish explains that they are different from other shopping mall web sites -- they are more like a real shopping mall. Once the person chooses a shopping category, she is taken to a host of store choices. She clicks on her choice and then enters into the store and shops just like in a real mall. By comparison, other sites limit shoppers to a specific product such as dresses.

"ShopyLadyZone.com provides women with whole stores to view, not just specific products," Parrish explains. "The web site was designed with the serious shopper in mind."

Parrish also recognizes the fact that the country is experiencing difficult financial times. As a result, the company has initiated a cost-savings program. So, how does it work? When a shopper spends $300 in their mall, in any given period of time, ShopLadyZone.com will send them a certificate for $1,000 worth of grocery coupons or restaurant dining saver books for national restaurants. With the savings created, women can virtually shop for free.

ShopLadyZone.com continues grow and to add new stores.

"We want our web site to be the place where women come when they want to buy something on the Internet," Parrish says.

While many people may ask, "Why not just go to the supplier's site?" The answer is simple: "Why limit your choices?" When shopping at ShopLadyZone.com, consumers have numerous choices all under one roof rather than searching for each supplier individually.

And, while of course men are welcome to peruse the site, the site is becoming more and more exclusive for women. Shopping was never more comfortable or simple. Women can take their time, shop at their own pace and avoid mall lines. They also do not have to look for a parking space and compete for sale items with other shoppers. Some vendors offer up to 90 percent savings on designer styles!

For more information, visit: www.ShopLadyZone.com.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, shop lady zone, ShopLadyZone online mall

July Fireworks and Phobic Pets - New Development!

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 11:17:00 GMT

ASHEVILLE, N.C., July 1 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- July is here and 4th of July celebrations approach. Our thoughts turn to our furry family members. Each year at the beginning of July millions of animals are lost or injured resulting from their fear of booming fireworks. According to Angel Dog, Inc., many pets fear fireworks so much that they hurt themselves, others or property and run off while trying desperately to find a safe place.

Shelters note a large spike in the intake of animals lost during this time. Veterinarians treat a large increase in injured animals. The number one reason cited is fireworks distress.

You can now help your pet overcome this fear. Angel Dog, Inc has produced a new training CD, "Sound Socialization" to de-sensitize your pet to fireworks. The training CD is easy to use and comes complete with instructions.

Service organizations, breeders, trainers and families alike highly recommend this training CD.

A great gift for the one you love - peace and calm.

Available at: www.AngelDogInc.com or www.DogWise.com.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Sound Socialization training CD, Angel Dog Inc

Cbeyond, Inc. Achieves Positive Return on Investment with the QBOS Tradespace Management(TM) System

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 10:20:44 GMT

Service Providers Strengthen Bottom Line with QBOS's Business Process Modeling Software, Portal Technology and Instance-Based Contextual Routing(TM)

DALLAS, Texas, July 1 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- QBOS, Inc. (www.qbos.com), a leading developer and provider of innovative web based management solutions serving large and small businesses, today announced that Cbeyond Inc. has successfully launched its TradeSpace Management System to their nationwide Field Service Partner network.

The QBOS TradeSpace Management System will extend process automation, document management, workforce management and collaboration capabilities beyond corporate boundaries to Cbeyond's field service partners who provide VoIP equipment, installation, and other communications services to Cbeyond's 35,000+ small business customers.

"We are extremely satisfied with our return on investment in the Tradespace Management System from QBOS," said Richard Batelaan, chief operating officer of Cbeyond. "QBOS implemented a customized solution within 60 days, including a workflow system that encompasses 180 of our national service partners. As soon as the system went live, we were able to drastically reduce our paper usage and save time. Their deep understanding of our business and commitment to high-quality customer service has made them a trusted partner."

QBOS customized the feature rich TradeSpace Management(TM) system, an innovative combination of Business Process Modeling Software, Portal technology and a unique instance based contextual routing engine, to give Cbeyond a real-time view into the service installation job stream as work progresses in the field. The TradeSpace Management System monitors all work flows, isolates remote process breakdowns, and initiates corrective actions enabling central operations to respond more quickly to the needs of remote personnel in the field.

"It's a smart product for smart companies," says Bob Henderson, Chief Executive Officer of QBOS. "We knew going into a well managed public company, like Cbeyond, would mean competing against the software industry's best available solutions. Not only did we have to show something better, we had to show something new - and we did just that."

Maintaining a competitive advantage with efficient operations requires providing secure, reliable and accurate information exchange between companies and their human resources. The TradeSpace Management System automatically manages the information and workflow exchange rules in accordance with a company's policy requirements while providing the flexibility necessary to optimize or change relationships and workflows in real-time, without invasive or complex programming. With access to real time information provided by the Tradespace Management System's dashboard reporting, clients can respond quickly and accurately to changing conditions, mitigating risk to the business. The TradeSpace Management system also stores Disaster Recovery and other contingency response processes for immediate activation.

"We know that every company is unique and believe that web based software has to be something more than just a template service. Our solutions are non-disruptive to current operations, do not create a burden for IT, and solves real problems enabling change without the considerable expense and overhead typically found with competitive solutions. QBOS is Cbeyond's trusted partner because of our extensive knowledge and experience in the service provider segment and our solution's ability to be rapidly deployed with quantifiable results," said Henderson.

For more information on QBOS and Tradespace Management System(TM), call (972) 233-5066 or visit www.qbos.com.

About QBOS, Inc.
QBOS, Inc. is a leading provider of innovative SaaS and web enabled software management solutions serving large and small businesses. The QBOS Inc., TradeSpace Management System(TM) securely extends workflow and information exchange across corporate boundaries within a variety of market segments and industries. QBOS, Inc. also offers a wide range of modular office automation applications that include CRM, SFA, BPMS, Inventory Mgt, SCM and much more allowing service providers to enter the SaaS market with co-branded or private label applications for resell. Please visit qbos.com for more information.

Media and Company Contact:
Bob Henderson
Chief Executive Officer
972-284-1062
rhenderson @ qbos.com

All trademarks acknowledged.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, modular office automation applications, QBOS Tradespace Management System

National Long Term Care Insurance Agency Partners with Nation's Leading Provider of Financial Solutions for the Insurance Industry

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 02:00:05 GMT

KIRKLAND, Wash., July 1 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Today LTC Financial Partners, LLC (LTCFP), one of the nation's most experienced long term care insurance agencies, and TWG Capital, the nation's leading provider of financial solutions for the insurance industry, announced the creation of the Agency Acquisition Program.

"Through the Agency Acquisition Program, TWG Capital allows us to purchase blocks of business from long term care agencies and producers at full present value. At the same time, also engaging them to help fulfill our national distribution contracts and earn commissions, renewals and equity in LTCFP," states Cameron Truesdell, CEO of LTCFP.

"LTC Financial Partners stands out as a premier leader in the long term care industry," says TWG Capital President Melanie Otto. "They offer long term care producers a twofold benefit: abundant qualified leads from national accounts and the capital to convert the leads to sales."

LTCFP offers the following additional opportunities and benefits to its partner producers and agencies:

* Association with a national LTC long term care career force.

* Assistance with agent recruiting, training, and career development.

* Participation in a lead program in association with several dozen Fortune 500 companies, national associations and leading financial institutions.

* The LTC long term care industry's first producer equity sharing plan.

"We are excited to offer this new program to our current and prospective LTC long term care partners," says Truesdell. "We believe the future demand is strong for seasoned LTC long term care producers and we are committed to meeting that demand now and in the future with our Agency Acquisition Program."

More information about the two organizations is available at the companies' web sites: www.ltcfp.com (LTC Financial Partners) and twgcapital.com (TWG Capital).

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, TWG Capital, LTC Financial Partners

Jazz Prodigy Eric Reed to Perform at Get a Life Childcare Foundation's First Annual 'Jazz to Support Life' Event

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 19:15:42 GMT

LOS ANGELES, Calif., June 30 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Get a Life Childcare Foundation, the only non-profit foundation in the nation dedicated to caring for children whose parents or siblings are living with chronic or terminal illness, will be holding their first annual "Jazz to Support Life" event benefiting the foundation's second child care facility in West Los Angeles. The evening will feature Wynton Marsalis' Jazz Piano prodigy, Eric Reed and a silent auction.

The event is to be held from 5:30 p.m. - 11 p.m. on Saturday, July 12, 2008 at The Jazz Bakery in Culver City, California. Admission is $30, and limited seating is available.

Event sponsors include clothing designer Christian Audigier, Jazz Bakery, RTKL Associates Inc., and Ron Edwards of Air Dreams Designs. The proceeds will be used to furnish "The Get a Life Family Support Center" once construction is completed in late 2008. The new location is intended to support local hospitals, accommodate more children and offer them a wide array of activities and play options such as a computer lab, an art room, and a music center.

"We have been so fortunate to gather so much community and corporate support in such a short amount of time for this event. We are so excited to have a talented artist such as Eric Reed grace our event," said Jade Stanford, Founder and CEO of Get a Life Childcare.

More about the organization
Get a Life Childcare Foundation is a non-profit childcare provider focused on creating a safe, nurturing environment for children of chronically or terminally ill parents, while also supporting parents through counseling and other support services. The founder, Jade Stanford, recently was featured on the Emmy(R) award winning PBS series "A Place of Our Own", which can be viewed on the show website: www.aplaceofourown.org/getalife.

Jade was also recently awarded a Certificate of Excellence in Childcare by the State Senate of California. Additional information on Get a Life Childcare Foundation can be found at www.getalifechildcare.org.

All trademarks acknowledged.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Get a Life Childcare Foundation, Jazz Piano prodigy Eric Reed

Leader Alert(R) Chosen by Mansfield City Schools for Health and Safety Alerting in Emergency, New System Can Alert All Parents, Staff in Minutes

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 18:00:03 GMT

COLUMBUS, Ohio, June 30 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Lloyd D. Martin, superintendent of Mansfield City Schools, announced today that the school district has chosen Leader(R) Alert, a health and safety alerting product, for use in its school district of 4700 students. Leader Alert(R), the creation of Leader Technologies(R) of Columbus, Ohio, makes it possible for a school to quickly and simultaneously alert thousands of parents and staff by telephone, texting, and email in case of emergencies ranging from lurking predators to snow days.

According to Supt. Martin, "Mansfield City Schools is excited to have the new Leader Alert(R) system in place. The system will be a wonderful tool that will allow us to communicate quickly with our parents, faculty and staff."

Martin also noted that the Ohio School Boards Association (OSBA) endorsed Leader Alert(R) after extensive testing, calling it "superior to other alerting systems and cost effective for schools."

Ronetta Banks, Executive Director of Instructional Technology at MCS, believes that Leader Alert(R) is "the best solution for enhancing our communication efforts and sending emergency notifications to our students, parents and community members."

Leader Alert(R) is already in use in a number of Ohio school districts, Leader CEO Mike McKibben said. "In 2007, Parma City Schools used Leader Alert(R) to notify 700 parents within minutes of an armed attacker being apprehended while trying to enter the school. Because parents quickly knew the facts, classes were not disrupted, and rumors and panic were avoided."

Leader's alerting and audio conferencing services were used extensively by the Louisiana Governor's Office in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, after many of the state's other communications systems had failed.

Although Supt. Martin envisions using Leader Alert(R) for school-related warnings and notifications, Leader Alert(R) has diverse applications ranging from terrorist attack simulations to early storm warnings to boat owners. It is currently in use as a health and safety alerting tool on school and college campuses across the United States.

Leader Technologies(R) Incorporated is located in Westerville, Ohio and offers other communications and alerting products and may be reached by calling John Needham, (614) 890-l986 or online at www.leader.com.

Mansfield City Schools is a public school district located in Mansfield, Ohio. For details or further information contact Mansfield City Schools - 124 N. Linden Road, Mansfield, OH 44906 (419) 525-6400 / (419) 525-6415 (fax) and online at www.tygerpride.com.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, health and safety alerting system, Leader Technologies Incorporated

Firebombers Incorporated: The Future of Wildland Firefighting?

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 16:39:18 GMT

LOS ANGELES, Calif., June 30 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- As global warming causes mega-fires to become the norm, as firefighting budgets are slashed, firefighting aircraft are grounded due to thick smoke, and firefighters are overwhelmed by the sheer number and size of wildfires, people are asking: Can technology be harnessed to produce a firefighting force capable of taking on such destructive phenomena before our forests are reduced to ash? Before thousands lose their homes? Before more lives are lost to rampant wildfires? A book from Firebomber Publications may provide the answer.

Firebombers Incorporated: The firefighting force for the 21st century! Melding together proven firefighting techniques with the latest in electronics, computers, and space-age materials, an elite, hard-hitting force is created, one which can see through smoke and dark of night as though it's a clear day, able to rapidly deploy all their firefighters and equipment to a fire zone by air, networking every unit through futuristic command-and-control vehicles.

Firebombers Incorporated offers an intriguing "what if?" scenario: Could such an outfit help the wildland firefighting forces that are currently stretched to the breaking point win their battles faster, save more lives, and substantially reduce suppression costs, not to mention property and financial losses?

Dedicated to those who risk their lives to save the lives of others, Firebombers Incorporated is a must read for anyone concerned about the increasing threat of mega-fires and interested in seeing what could be done to stop them dead in their tracks!

"Firebombers Incorporated keeps the reader in anticipation of what is to come!" - The Nashville News

"The book is action packed and maintains a substantial level of suspense that keeps the reader glued to each page...." - Wildland Firefighter Magazine

About the Author
Michael Archer holds degrees in Agriculture, Electronics, and Engineering Technology. He has written articles for Wildland Firefighter Magazine, Home & Fire Magazine, and others. He has been interviewed by KABC-TV, USA Today, and Associated Press on wildfire issues. He is webmaster and technical advisor to Wildfire Research Network, a public-safety research and education nonprofit (www.wildfireresearch.org), and San Diego Regional Fire Safety Forum, a professional forum to educate the public about the threat of wildfires and what future changes are necessary to protect the San Diego Region (www.sdfiresafety.org).

About Firebomber Publications
Firebomber Publications is a small press dedicated to providing exciting firefighting fiction to the general public. Firebomber Publications donates 50% of the profits from sales of the "Firebombers Incorporated" product line to organizations that support the families of injured and fallen firefighters. Website: www.firebomberpublications.com.

Title: FIREBOMBERS INCORPORATED
Author: Michael Archer
ISBN-10: 0970798016 ISBN-13: 978-0970798015 (trade paperback, 377 pages)
Publisher: Firebomber Publications
Available through Amazon.com, The Supply Cache (www.firecache.com) and Baker & Taylor.

Author available for interview on short notice.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Wildfire Research Network, Firebomber Publications

Jamaica Cottage Shop Inc. Donates Shed to Women's Crisis Center

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 13:47:38 GMT

BRATTLEBORO, Vt., June 30 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Jamaica Cottage Shop, Inc. (jamaicacottageshop.com) will work with the women's crisis center to donate an 8x10 Vermonter, one of their most popular designs, which the women will use for storage of donated goods outside their facility.

Jamaica Cottage Shop has been in the shed business since 1995. Twelve of their designs are now offered in pre-cut kits.

"I have now chosen to offer kits in the most affordable, organized and easy-to-build fashion as possible," says Domenic Mangano, owner. "We are the leader in the country in manufacturing and shipping post and beam shed kits and plans."

The company ships nationally as well as overseas. Many of the designs are available to view at their shop in South Londonderry, VT.

If you can't make it to the shop, each distinctive design can be viewed on the website at www.jamaicacottageshop.com.

Jamaica Cottage Shop, Inc., 170 Winhall Station Rd., South Londonderry, VT 05155.

All trademarks acknowledged.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Jamaica Cottage Shop, storage shed kits and plans

Singles Dance Parties in Berkeley and Sacramento

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 12:44:45 GMT

BERKELEY, Calif., June 30 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Professionals Guild is hosting two huge singles dance parties and mixers in July: one on Sat. 7/19 at Golden Gate Fields (GGF) in Berkeley; the other, on Fri. 7/25 in Sacramento at the Hilton Hotel, Arden West. Both parties go from 8pm to midnight.

The party at GGF also includes an optional 7 course wine dinner, starting at 6PM. Each course will be paired with an award winning wine. Special pricing for the dinner is available to those with Professionals Guild invitations. Invitations are available at www.pguild.com.

The party in Sacramento at the Hilton Hotel Arden West, includes a live band, "Mike Sorci and Friends," playing smooth jazz by the pool. Also, simultaneously inside the hotel, singles can enjoy DJ dancing with Mike Westerman.

Both singles parties start at 8pm and feature 1) an optional mixer game with prizes to make it easy to meet new people, 2) Dance music from the 70's, 80's, and 90's to current hits, 3) Free Parking, 4) Free hors d'oeuvres, and 5) A no host bar. People of all ages are welcome. The typical crowd is single professionals, 25 up with many in their 30's, 40's, and 50's.

About 250 to 300 singles are expected to attend each of the parties, which start at 8pm.

Party Times and Locations:
Golden Gate Fields, 8pm, 7/19
1100 Eastshore Hwy
Berkeley, Ca 94710

Hilton Hotel, Arden West, 8pm 7/25
2200 Harvard St.
Sacramento, CA 95815

The cover at the door is $25. $10 Gift Certificates for newcomers are available at www.pguild.com

About Professionals Guild
Professionals Guild offers huge monthly singles parties and mixers in the Bay Area and Sacramento, as well as New Years Eve extravaganzas for couples and singles.

More information: www.pguild.com or call 1-925-888-4392.

A YouTube video describing the GGF party may be found at
http://youtube.com/watch?v=m_MPTIetq0Y .

Media Queries:
Phil Seyer of Professionals Guild, +1-925-888-4392,
ProfessionalsGuild@gmail.com.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, mixers in the Bay Area, Professionals Guild Sacramento

Eularis Releases Update of Its Comprehensive Report on Maximizing the Bottom Line in Pharmaceutical Marketing

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 10:21:49 GMT

LONDON, UK and TOKYO Japan, June 30 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Eularis is announcing the release of an update to its report, "Ensuring Profitable Return-on-Investment (ROI) in Pharmaceutical Marketing: Using Analytics and Metrics to Improve the Bottom Line." Originally offered in February 2007, the comprehensive report has been revised to provide pharmaceutical marketers with a competitive edge and the latest research information.

"The pharmaceutical environment is turbulent, and what used to work to create an industry-wide growth of 20 percent, no longer does," said the author of the report, Dr. Andree K. Bates, president of Eularis. "As market growth slows, the bottom line return for brands is under increased scrutiny, and every marketing dollar must count."

Eularis identified a common problem faced by pharmaceutical companies - how to know which activities impact market share and by how much. The company assembled a group of world-leading mathematicians in the predictive analytics field, as well as thought leaders, to find the solution.

This report, in turn, analyzes how top pharmaceutical marketing leaders are handling pressing marketing return issues, and offers new ideas to apply. The detailed research addresses issues such as: ROI basics; practical skills marketers need for measuring marketing effectiveness; tools and best practices that make a difference; measurement principles that drive successful marketing measurement; how to propel strategy, growth, and bottom line return; plus an array of case studies.

The report also explains what real people did to measure, improve, and prove bottom line return. It uncovers practices to predict how and where pharmaceutical marketing and sales investments will yield the highest market share and market share price. Readers will benefit from the step-by-step guidelines on successfully implementing approaches for real and measurable results available only in this report.

Dr. Andree Bates, president of Eularis, has gained wide recognition within the international pharmaceutical industry for her expertise in marketing return analysis and is the author of this must-have report for all pharmaceutical industry marketers.

To purchase this report, visit: www.pharmamarketingroi.com or for Japanese information visit: www.eularis.com/japanese/marketing-excellence/market-reports.asp

About Eularis
Eularis provides sophisticated pharmaceutical analytics that provide data-driven insight into the financial impact of corporate and marketing decisions. Unlike traditional analytics approaches which are lengthy and whose reliance on historical or analogue data reduces their accuracy, Eularis' proprietary 94.8 Analytics Process is based on the current market situation. This proven approach helps pharmaceutical marketing teams to quickly plan, measure, validate, and optimize their sales and marketing performance. Eularis offers pre-launch analytics, marketing mix modeling (both professional and consumer), portfolio optimization, sales force effectiveness, managed care analytics, and patient compliance solutions. Co-headquartered in London and New York City, the company has developed significant experience in the global pharmaceutical market through client engagements globally (including Japan and Asia Pacific) with AstraZeneca, GlaxoSmithKline, Merck, Pfizer and many others.

For more information about Eularis, visit www.eularis.com.

All trademarks acknowledged.

View This Release in Japanese (PDF)

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Pharmaceutical Marketing ROI, Eularis Andree Bates

Nobel Prize Winner Dr. Stephen Schneider Hails Tribal Snow Contributions: 'Whatever Works, Go For It!'

Sun, 29 Jun 2008 12:02:02 GMT

PALO ALTO, Calif., June 29 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- "I think it is wonderful that ski areas have been inviting the tribes back to ski and snowboard, which inspired them this winter to share their earth-honoring prayers and snowdances for all U.S. Ski Areas. It would be wise to further explore and expand such cross-fertilization," said Stanford Climatologist Dr. Stephen Schneider, 2007 Nobel Peace Prize Winner as part of the Intergovernmental Panel for Change Climate (IPCC) team, who has been working with the Native Voices Foundation.

"Because large scale systems affect our complex weather, it is difficult to say which elements affect the precipitation outcome most, so one needs to work with all sides of the street. It would be foolish to dismiss anything that helps in this environmental crisis, especially if it costs almost nothing," said the former skier.

Professor Schneider has been chief writer on IPCC's Team for 20 years, Aspen SkiCo's consultant, Squaw Valley's climate conference speaker, and Tom Brokaw's expert on his HBO Global Warming Special. The Nobel Laureate bikes to work and uses natural household products as cancer and pollution prevention, given its link to glacier melting (ref: mindfully.org/Air/2003/Home-Chemicals-Smog9mar03.htm).

"What combination of practical and spiritual solutions might have contributed to 'America's record snow season,' is not a matter of measurable science, but a matter of belief. Communities like Aspen Valley and this year, Arizona's Snow Bowl, uniting to give good stewardship, along with group prayer, psychologically serves as a support system that gives the feeling of belonging and hope. So whatever you believe works, go for it," he advises.

"Last year Stanford's Woods Institute on the Environment, of which I am a Senior Fellow, launched an environmental exchange starting with the (NZ) Maori and Hawaiian tribes, which has expanded our understanding and way of working in more harmony with Nature," said the professor. "That is why we are following the National Ski Areas Association's lead in partnering with American Indian Elders to help 'Keep Winters Cool,' thanks to a meeting with a team from Native Voices Foundation (NVF)," he said.

It included America's Cup Winner Dick Enersen, Kirk Casselman, working on putting an Elder on Yale's Forestry faculty, and Olympic skier and NVF co-founder Suzy "Chapstick" Chaffee, along with Winona Simms, Stanford's Native Studies director.

This snow bridge was made possible by the Faraway, Enersen, and Calvert K.Collins Foundations; Tex Hall (ND's Mandan-Arikara-Hidatsu), former President of the National Congress of American Indians; Ambassador Gilbert Robinson (Ret.); Moose and Ann Taylor; and Send2Press(R) Newswire (www.Send2Press.com), a unit of Neotrope(R).

Native Voices Foundation (NVF) is a non profit 501(c)3 Colorado partnership of U.S. Tribal leaders, Elders and Olympians, "To create joyful unity through sports and education to help heal Mother Earth."

More information: www.snow-riders.org.

All trademarks acknowledged.

*(PHOTO Link 72dpi: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/08-0620-NVFgroup_72dpi.jpg)

*(Photo Caption: Graduating Hawaiian and Maori Stanford Fellows and Native Voices Foundation's (2nd from left) Dick Enersen and Olympic skier Suzy Chaffee, who have been exploring tribal solutions to "Keep Winters Cool" with Nobel Laureate Dr. Stephen Schneider.)

*(PHOTO Link 72dpi: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/08-0620-NVFschndr_72dpi.jpg)

*(Photo Caption: 2007 Nobel Laureate, Dr. Stephen Schneider, Stanford Climatologist, whose institute has been exploring solutions to "Keeping Winters Cool" with American Indian, Hawaiian and Maori Tribes.)

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Intergovernmental Panel for Change Climate, Native Voices Foundation

Renowned Fertility Specialist, Steven A. Brody, M.D., Ph.D. to Anchor New San Diego Medical Institute

Fri, 27 Jun 2008 19:21:33 GMT

SAN DIEGO, Calif., June 27 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Sher Institutes for Reproductive Medicine(R) (SIRM) have announced the opening of an office in La Jolla, California, with Dr. Steven A. Brody accepting the position of Scientific Director and attending physician. Dr. Brody is a world renowned physician, author, and reproductive health expert with longstanding ties to San Diego.

Sher Institutes for Reproductive Medicine, with 15 offices across the United States, is one of the largest networks of fertility centers in the country. Other SIRM offices in Southern California include locations in Glendale and Chino Hills. Dr. Aykut Bayrak is Medical Director of the Southern California offices of SIRM.

"We are extremely excited to welcome Dr. Brody to our fertility practice," said Dr. Geoffrey Sher, co-founder and Executive Medical Director of Sher Institutes. "Steven and I are long-time colleagues and friends. I have the utmost respect for his expertise and passion in this field. This partnership will benefit our medical group, and more importantly, it will benefit couples in San Diego struggling with infertility."

Dr. Brody is a pioneer in the field of infertility and reproductive health, with more than 20 years' experience in the discipline. Among his numerous distinctions are the following:

* Fellowship status in four medical societies and Board Certified in four specialties: Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Internal Medicine, and Endocrinology & Metabolism.

* Dr. Brody's textbook Principles and Practice of Assisted Human Reproduction was co-authored with Dr. Robert Edwards of Cambridge University, one of the two men responsible for the birth of the world's first IVF baby.

* Author of the acclaimed textbook Endocrine Disorders in Pregnancy.

* Appointed to the faculty of the prestigious UCSD School of Medicine as an Assistant Clinical Professor.

* Recipient of the Osler Award, named for the father of American medicine, Dr. William Osler.

* Named San Diego's Doctor of the Year in 1995 by the San Diego Medical Journal and Metropolitan Magazine.

* President of Epsilon Association of Phi Beta Kappa, the national academic honor society.

"I'm thrilled to be a part of the Sher Institute family," said Dr. Brody. "This relationship will enable me to introduce new fertility breakthroughs to the San Diego medical community and help many more couples longing to start a family." These SIRM breakthroughs include a genetic diagnosis method called "CGH" (comparative genomic hybridization) that allows analysis of all 46 chromosomes in an embryo, as well as advanced egg/embryo freezing techniques, and new ovarian stimulation protocols for In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) in patients with resistant ovaries.

About SIRM
"Sher Institutes for Reproductive Medicine" is an independently-owned network of fertility centers operating with a common vision and established with a set of cutting-edge medical protocols. Sher Institutes were established by Drs. Geoffrey Sher and Ghanima Maassarani in 1998. Dr. Sher also co-founded the country's first private In Vitro Fertilization program in 1982. Sher Institutes provide individualized patient care in a warm and compassionate environment.

Sher Institutes are in Southern California (Glendale, Chino Hills and San Diego); Northern California (Sacramento and Pleasanton); greater New York (Manhattan, Westchester, Long Island); New Jersey (Bedminster, Fair Lawn, and Phillipsburg); Texas (Dallas); Missouri (St. Louis); Illinois (Peoria); and Nevada (Las Vegas).

Learn more about the Sher Institutes at www.haveababy.com.

For more information, contact:
Steven Brody, M.D.
(858) 455-6100
Website: www.haveababy.com

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, SIRM San Diego, Sher Institutes for Reproductive Medicine

ThinkBox Launches 'Showy Show!' - Breakthrough Children's Video Series

Fri, 27 Jun 2008 11:13:55 GMT

Breakthrough children's video series prepares kids ages 2-5 for childhood's big milestones while making them the star of the show.

LOS ANGELES, Calif., June 27 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- ThinkBox Inc. today announces the release of "Showy Show! Preschool Show," the first in a new live action educational video series for 2-5 year olds. The "Showy Show" series is specifically designed to use music and participation to help kids and their parents get ready for the major challenges of childhood such as going to preschool, going to bed, and having a sleep over. The child is encouraged to participate as the "star" of "Showy Show," and each show is filled with opportunities to develop early literacy skills. The first show in the series,"Showy Show, Preschool Show," is now available for purchase at showyshow.com.

"Showy Show, Preschool Show" aims to prepare a 2-5 year old for preschool. Children learn the who, what, why, where and how of a preschool day with song and dance numbers and funny skits. Throughout, they are exposed to a literacy-rich environment so that essential early reading skills are developed. By the end of the fun-filled show, both parents and children will be less mystified about preschool, and more open to the joy of their journey together.

"Showy Show" was created by a mom in response to her own need for help in confronting the major milestones of childhood with her young daughter. "We wanted to create something fun and entertaining that would help parents and kids to happily conquer some of the tricky moments in childhood," said Jennifer McCaffrey, Executive Producer of Showy Show. "It was also important for us to create a show that kids would love and learn from, but wouldn't make today's hipper parents cringe."

"ThinkBox has always been committed to the development of the whole child, including their academic, social, and emotional development," says Brian Napack, CEO of ThinkBox. "With 'Showy Show,' Jennifer McCaffrey has created an engaging tool that will allow kids and their grown-ups to learn and grow together while they share the joy of tackling some of the key challenges of early childhood."

"Showy Show!" is built on the pedagogical approach of active learning used in High/Scope Preschool Curriculum(SM), which has guided many preschool learning programs. Through a process called Watch-Play-Show(TM), each "Showy Show!" episode's songs and activities support the entire cycle of learning for both child and parent. The three stages of Watch-Play-Show help kids to understand that they are competent thinkers, decision-makers and problem-solvers. Throughout the repeating Watch-Play-Show cycle, adults and children enjoy sharing the process with each other.

"Showy Show" includes a cast of three graduates of the American Repertory Theater at Harvard University. The production features seven original songs from composer Aaron Kaplan of "Top Chef" and "Project Runway."

More information: www.showyshow.com.

VNR: http://send2press.com/newswire/2008-06-0627-001.shtml

IntroIn.com Beta Release Invites Apartment Seekers and Renters to Exchange Information

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 18:48:52 GMT

MCLEAN, Va., June 26 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- iSquare, Inc. announces the launching of a public beta web site that promises to make apartment seeking and dwelling more fun and effective. The new web site, www.introin.com, provides existing renters with referral bonuses from their community management company while providing apartment seekers with the "inside scoop" and consolidated listings of referrals and sublets in a single click.

This free service lets referrers post their referral information in a searchable database of 40,000 complexes across the U.S. And, if the potential renter decides to go with an apartment complex that is listed in the database, the referrer will receive a referral bonus. Referrers are also encouraged to share their bonuses with interested renters as an enticement to choose their offering.

"One of the features that sets us apart from other apartment listing web sites," Premraj Jeyaprakash, CEO, IntroIn.com explains, "is that current apartment referrers who use this site are able to communicate with potential renters, providing them with an insider's view."

All communication is done via a private message board so people do not have to worry about privacy issues. Actual e-mail addresses are not viewed.

IntroIn.com does not require registration for apartment and referral search. For those who wish to offer a referral or respond, sign-up is quick; only an e-mail address is required. Communities not yet listed can be added by users. And, utility/cable referrals can also be offered.

"Connecting existing renters with potential renters is a win-win situation," Premraj says. "After all, who knows more than those people who are currently living there? Apartment Managers gloss over problem areas, but existing renters will share the truth."

To learn more, visit: www.IntroIn.com.

Videos Introduce Public to Long Term Care Advisors, a New Trend Leading Agency Begins Using Media to Build Trust in Agents

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 12:41:44 GMT

KIRKLAND, Wash., June 26 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Millions of Americans have a critical need for information on long term care insurance, but most hesitate to contact the very person, a long term care specialist, who can help them. "People aren't sure they can trust someone they've never met," says Denise Gott, Chairman of the Board of LTC Financial Partners LLC, one of the nation's most experienced long term care insurance agencies.

Today Gott's organization announced a solution: videos, posted on the Internet, that let people size up an agent in advance. "When the public can see one of our experts, up close and personal, they can develop a comfort level by gauging the agent's knowledge, sincerity, and helpfulness."

In addition to smoothing the way to human contact, the videos will save time for the public and agents alike. "People are really busy today, and we find that many would rather get answers on the phone than make in-person appointments," says Gott.

"The videos will inspire confidence to interact remotely, if desired."

The video program is being launched with videos of 22 of the organization's 500 agents, including Gott. "In time, we expect that all of our agents will have video introductions," Gott says. The videos are available on YouTube as well as the agents' websites.

Links to the videos are found at
www.ltcfp.us/ltcfp/video-introductions.html

Ecologic Leasing Solutions Acquires Captara Corporation

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 12:20:45 GMT

Combination Will Drive 5-20% Savings for Fortune 500 Equipment Lessees

WASHINGTON, D.C., June 26 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Ecologic Leasing Solutions announced today that it completed the acquisition of Captara Corporation, a San Francisco, Calif.-based lease management software company, which had been Ecologic's main competitor.

"Captara software enables users to easily plan and manage their corporate equipment lease portfolio. We were most interested in their lessor marketplace functionality that allows busy treasury and procurement professionals to compete lease transactions by simply creating an RFP and sending it to over 200 lessors. They can then quickly and easily analyze the lease proposals on an apples-to-apples basis and make the best financial decisions for their company," said Michael Keeler, CEO of Ecologic.

"This capability reduces the time it takes to complete lease transactions from three months to three weeks and typically generates 5-8% savings on original cost because of the degree of competition. That is a huge, proven, recurring savings for our Fortune 500 clients who typically lease $15 million or more of equipment annually. That's why we bought the company."

Both companies provide web-based software and outsourcing services for managing the equipment leasing process throughout the lifecycle of leases, assets, and lender relationships. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

"Captara's technology complements Ecologic's ongoing mission to simplify and eliminate the hidden and excessive costs of the equipment leasing process for large companies," said Angela Sabella, CFO. "Captara is an innovator in the field of lease management, and we're excited that the Captara team has joined Ecologic."

Captara was founded in January 1999 as PureMarkets Corporation. In August 2004, PureMarkets changed its name to Captara as it transitioned from serving as an on-line portal for equipment lease transactions to serving large corporations in their leasing portfolio management. Ecologic gained control of Captara in a financial transaction that was completed on June 1, 2007. However, Ecologic did not move to fully integrate Captara and announce the acquisition until the recent settlement of ongoing trademark litigation against Captara. Captara's clients and staff were fully integrated into Ecologic's operations in December 2007. The software services integration is expected to be completed on schedule in Q3. Captara clients should not experience any interruption in service.

About Ecologic Leasing Solutions
Ecologic provides a comprehensive suite of services for the reporting, control, and management of all corporate leases and assets delivering visibility, scalability, compliance, rapid payback, and sound financial decision-making to lessees. Fortune 500 companies deploy Ecologic's software and outsourcing services to save 5-20% on their equipment lease portfolio, reduce lease turn-around time by up to 85% and scale to meet their financial performance objectives while ensuring audit compliance. Founded in 2000, the Company is headquartered in Northern Virginia, with offices in Montreal and San Francisco.

For more information, visit: www.ecologicleasing.com.

Media Contact:
Michael J. Keeler
of Ecologic Leasing Solutions
+1-703-791-1931
contactus@ecologicleasing.com

Music and Social Networking Get Redefined in New Interactive Site from BETA Records

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 11:48:28 GMT

Artists and music fans immerse themselves in downloads, ringtones, streaming, internet radio, virtual commerce, communication, video, and more

LOS ANGELES, Calif., June 26 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Giving musicians and music lovers more power and flexibility than ever before, BETA Records (betarecords.com) has launched a newly expanded site combining search-and-match music selection, virtual commerce, and social interaction.

Technology partners took part in a global 2-year effort to transform BETA Records into a music ecosystem to accommodate the way fans like to interact with music and artists.

"BETA Records is taking the ideas, philosophy and functionality of the record labels of yesteryear and adding modern technology," states Chris Honetschlaeger, President. "Now, fans and bands are going to be able to interact in exciting ways, leading to more people sharing and recommending more new music than ever."

The newly launched site offers quick-and-easy tools for artists and fans to communicate with each other while sharing, buying or selling music, ringtones, and merchandise. "We created a whole new world involving virtual branding, communication, music, and commerce," says Georg van Handel, CEO.

Visitors to the online BETA world will find downloads, streaming, video, email, widgets, ringtone makers, dynamic song pricing, and intuitive search-and-match technology to help find new music.

"Other sites have made music accessible, but it's not about how many 'friends' listen to you because friends don't pay the bills," notes Honetschlaeger. "What we've launched will take a song to 20 different markets, giving 85% of the revenue back to the artists. The more exposure a song has, the more likely it is that someone will buy it." Even fans can earn revenue via recommendations and their own profile's traffic.

The new music and social networking technology is now available in the USA. Next to launch will be England, www.betarecords.co.uk; Germany, www.betarecords.de; and Mexico, www.betarecords.com.mx, with China coming soon.

About BETA Records
BETA Records is a hybrid community that actively finds, produces, and showcases unsigned artists to the music industry and distributes content to fans via digital channels. BETA offers each artist a dedicated page to utilize the full range of the site's technology.

Media contact:
Scott G
ScottG@betarecords.com
Phone: 1-818-223-8486

Senior Market Sales, Inc. Extends its Agent Self-Help Websites to Include MedSuppforAgents.com

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 10:46:57 GMT

OMAHA, Neb., June 25 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Senior Market Sales, Inc. (SMS) announces the rollout of its newest self-help website for insurance agents, MedSuppforAgents.com. Modeled after the successful PartDForAgents.com and MAForAgents.com, the site provides Medicare supplement producers an organized set of reference materials needed to maintain a competitive product portfolio. Information available includes downloadable carrier contracts, training, marketing materials, outlines of coverage, underwriting guides, links to carrier resources and carrier announcements. Access to SMS lead programs is also available.

As part of the website, agents have access to training resources relating to all aspects of Original Medicare, Part D, Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement and Medicaid.

Roger Marvel, Associate Director of Medicare Supplement, said, "We are excited at SMS to introduce a website that provides all the information in one place to allow agents more time to do what they do best, sell! When forms are needed they no longer have to remember each company's web address. MedSuppForAgents.com has provided a one-stop shop for multiple Medicare supplement companies and their support materials."

About Senior Market Sales, Inc.
Licensed in 50 states, Senior Market Sales, Inc. (SMS), an insurance marketing company, offers independent agents the best options for Medicare solutions, long-term care, life insurance, final expense, annuities, senior dental, worksite and group plans, travel and international medical insurance. Along with these products, agents can expect old-fashioned customer service with high-tech solutions, as found on the company's website at www.SeniorMarketSales.com.

These services include online quoting tools, forms, applications, lead programs, carrier bulletins and online underwriting support. Our experienced staff is equipped to handle all insurance needs including pre-underwriting services, sales and marketing ideas, status reports, contracting and training.

Visit these company websites for insurance agents:
www.SeniorMarketSales.com; www.MedSuppForAgents.com; www.MAForAgents.com; www.PartDForAgents.com; www.eAnnuityCoach.com; www.TravelInsuranceCenter.com.

Steam Leaks Costing U.S. Corporations $Billions Annually

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 18:35:05 GMT

BOSTON, Mass., June 24 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Amidst the ever present and growing energy crisis, lurks an even bigger culprit than your father's old gas guzzler. Steam. According to American Plant Maintenance, steam is still a living necessity in a vast majority of U.S. hospitals, power plants and manufacturing facilities, and in spite of its environmentally "green" disposition, is also single handedly responsible for billions of dollars in fuel consumption every year.

The U.S. Department of energy reports that over 45% of all the fuel burned by U.S. manufacturers is consumed to make steam. Making energy losses associated with the inefficient use of steam critical not only to the companies involved but the U.S. economy as a whole.

Bill Doherty, Chief Engineer of American Plant Maintenance, Inc., an energy conservation corporation dedicated to the survey and repair of steam and compressed gas systems, claims the problem stems mainly from a lack of awareness and preventive maintenance.

"The biggest problem here is neglect," says Doherty. "As long as they don't see steam billowing from a pipe, and the equipment they're powering works okay, they don't concern themselves with the efficiency of their system, and that's a costly mistake to make." This mistake potentially cost one New England hospital in excess of $1M in energy losses over the course of 5 years. Money which could have been better spent on critical medical equipment or nursing staff.

Although $1M is a rare scenario, losses in the tens of thousands of dollars annually are very common. "We've seen annual losses range anywhere from $20K to $200K and in today's economy those can be very critical amounts," says Doherty.

Critical or not, they are also amounts that can usually be avoided or significantly reduced by conducting annual steam trap surveys and routine system maintenance. "Our services traditionally cost a fraction of the amounts being lost, and most of our surveys and repairs pay for themselves well within a year," says Doherty. "So it really doesn't make much sense financially, to just ignore these potential problems and assume everything's fine."

According to Doherty, the majority of calculated losses in a steam system are typically found in the systems steam traps, which are devices used to remove condensate (water) and other non-condensable gasses from the steam line. When these devices fail, they can either leak, or plug causing poor system performance and ultimately a large loss of energy. Annual surveys of the system can eventually result in maximum system efficiency and much less of an economic impact.

For more information please visit www.apmnortheast.com or call 1-781-750-8899.