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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/sbwire-141179.htm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/sbwire-140972.htm

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

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

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

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

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

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/sbwire-140853.htm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/sbwire-140765.htm

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

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

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

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

Among others, confirmed presenters include:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/sbwire-140727.htm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/sbwire-140601.htm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/sbwire-140368.htm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/sbwire-140551.htm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/sbwire-140505.htm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/sbwire-140337.htm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/sbwire-140482.htm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/sbwire-140339.htm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/sbwire-140263.htm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/sbwire-140149.htm

Healthcare Certification Provider Offers Industry Insights and Training Advice for Emergency Healthcare Professionals

Denver, CO -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/09/2012 -- To help healthcare professionals keep up with increasing demand for emergency department care, Health Education Solutions (HES), a leading provider of online healthcare certification courses including HeartCode® ACLS, today released an Emergency Department health education article special section. This collection of informational articles is designed to help emergency department professionals equip themselves with the knowledge and skills they need to effectively care for more patients and prepare themselves for career advancement.

Between 1995 and 2008, emergency room visits increased by 28 percent according to the National Center for Health Statistics. As emergency departments continue to experience larger patient loads, the demand for professionals who understand how to effectively deliver cardiovascular life support interventions will grow as well.

“In order to provide effective lifesaving care to a patient, emergency care workers must have a strong understanding of both life support interventions and current trends that may impact delivery of care,” said Melissa Marks, president of HES. “Health Education Solutions provides resources, information, and certification options to help emergency department nurses, doctors and other professionals keep their skills up to date and their knowledge current.”

The Emergency Department health education article special section offers emergency department data, information and resources to help professionals learn more about effective delivery of care, as well as industry trends and career opportunities. It is available in Health Education Solutions’ online research library, accessible via the HES homepage.

To help emergency department professionals equip themselves with essential lifesaving skills, HES offers online advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) certification and recertification courses. These online, self-paced courses are a convenient option for emergency care professionals who work long hours or have non-traditional schedules.

- Click here for ACLS certification (http://www.healthedsolutions.com/courses/acls-certification)
- Click here for ACLS recertification (http://www.healthedsolutions.com/courses/acls-recertification)

HES additionally provides online American Heart Association HeartCode ACLS, pediatric advanced life support (PALS), stroke, basic life support (BLS), cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), automated external defibrillator (AED), bloodborne pathogens and first aid training. Courses are intended for healthcare professionals, as well as individuals who want to be prepared to provide care in an emergency.

For professionals preparing for the ACLS and PALS exams, HES offers certification and recertification practice tests and quizzes. Questions included in both the tests and quizzes are similar to those included in the ACLS and PALS certification and recertification exams. The practice quizzes each include five sample questions and are available free of charge. The practice tests, which mirror the actual certification exam and include 50 timed multiple-choice questions, are available for $35. A portion of this fee can be applied to the purchase price of the full certification course. Individuals who take the practice tests and quizzes have the opportunity to immediately review incorrectly answered questions to understand where more studying may be needed.

For more information about training options for emergency care professionals, please visit http://www.healthedsolutions.com/articles/health-education-article.

About Health Education Solutions
Health Education Solutions (HES) is a leading provider of continuing education solutions for healthcare professionals. HES, a subsidiary of Nelnet Inc. (NYSE: NNI), offers ACLS and PALS courses developed in partnership with medical faculty at Union College in Lincoln, Nebraska.

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

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/sbwire-140130.htm

Sycamore Bank Introduces Kasasa, a Striking Alternative to the Mega Bank Rollercoaster

Denver, CO -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/02/2012 -- Sycamore Bank (MEMBER FDIC) asks consumers, “Do you Kasasa?” as it becomes the first financial institution in north Mississippi to launch the country’s most innovative financial products.

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

“Consumers deserve to wake up to happier days of banking and leave behind the nightmare of mega bank fees and mistreatment. We are pleased to be the first in the north Mississippi area to offer these unique products,” said David Dowdle, President and CEO of Sycamore Bank. “Kasasa delivers what research shows people really want but believe they can’t have—great financial products with the personal service of a community based financial institution.”

Sycamore Bank is offering three Kasasa financial products, including Kasasa Cash?, Kasasa Cash Back™ and Kasasa Saver?. All Kasasa products are free, reward-based accounts, with no minimum balance to earn the rewards, no monthly service fee, free online banking and nationwide ATM fee refunds.

Kasasa Cash - A free checking account that rewards consumers with high interest for every month he or she qualifies.

Kasasa Cash Back - A free checking account that rewards account holders with major cash back on everyday debit card purchases, without points or category restrictions like the big guys. The cash back amount is based on how much consumers spend on each debit card.

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

To receive the Kasasa account benefits, each monthly qualification cycle account holders are asked to do a few simple things like, receive monthly e-statements, access Kasasa 360® Money Management Tool (when available), and use a debit card a minimum number of times. If an account holder does not meet the qualifications in a given month, Sycamore Bank will alert the individual, who will be eligible the following month for the benefits.

“Extensive research has shown us that consumers would prefer to do business with community financial institutions, but feel they would lose access to products,” commented Ken Purvis, President – DeSoto County, Sycamore Bank. “Kasasa is opening people’s eyes to a new banking model where no sacrifices are necessary. It’s a win-win because account holders get innovative products and personalized service.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/sbwire-138707.htm

New Relationship To Provide Powerful Tools For Independent 401(k) Advisors

Denver, CO -- (SBWIRE) -- 04/30/2012 -- Security Benefit Corporation, a leading provider of retirement savings and income vehicles throughout the nation, today announced it has formed a partnership with fi360, the premier organization for fiduciary education, investment analytics, support services, and industry insights for financial professionals.

With the relationship, advisors and plan sponsors will have no-cost access to fi360’s highly regarded fi360 Fiduciary Score® analysis of Security Benefit’s recently launched SecurePoint Retirement 401(k) product. SecurePoint includes the expertise of Mesirow Financial as ERISA 3(38) fiduciary in the selection, monitoring, and replacement of 401(k) plan investment alternatives.

“We’re confident that advisors will find fi360’s reports beneficial,” said Jim Mullery, President, Security Distributors. “Access to a powerful fiduciary tool like fi360 will go a long way toward helping independent investment advisors build and manage sound 401(k) businesses.”

Known for its full-circle approach to investment fiduciary education, practice management, and support, fi360 offers world-class training, tools, and resources essential for fiduciaries to effectively and successfully manage their roles and responsibilities. The firm’s designation training provides instruction towards earning the Accredited Investment Fiduciary® (AIF®) and Accredited Investment Fiduciary Analyst™ (AIFA®) professional designations.

“We see this as a mutually beneficial relationship,” said Blaine Aikin, fi360&aposs CEO, “and a chance for us to immediately add real value to advisors in the small- and mid-size retirement plan market.”

Additional information on SecurePoint and Security Benefit’s Corporate Retirement Programs is available at securityretirement.com.

For more information, please contact:
Michel’ Cole, Security Benefit Corporation
(785) 438-3396
Michel.cole@securitybenefit.com

Laura Parsons, CSG-PR
303-887-2911
lparsons@csg-pr.com

About Security Benefit Corporation
Founded in 1892, Security Benefit Corporation, a Guggenheim Partners Company, is a leading provider of savings and income solutions for America’s pre-and post-retirees. Security Benefit Corporation targets multiple wealth segments and channels of distribution through an independent, merit-based distribution structure. By leveraging Guggenheim’s superior general account management capabilities into highly competitive products, Security Benefit Corporation focuses on the retirement savings market providing a full range of services to independent distributors including broker/dealers, IMOs and other financial service providers. Security Benefit is indirectly controlled by Guggenheim Partners, LLC. The firm’s se2 division is an award-winning and nationally recognized provider of administrative services for the insurance and financial services industry. To learn more about Security Benefit or se2, visit http://www.securitybenefit.com or http://www.se2.com.

About Guggenheim Partners
Guggenheim Partners is a privately held global financial services firm with more than $125 billion in assets under management. The firm provides asset management, investment banking and capital markets services, insurance, institutional finance and investment advisory solutions to institutions, governments and agencies, corporations, investment advisors, family offices and individuals. Guggenheim Partners is headquartered in New York and Chicago and serves clients around the world from more than 25 offices in 10 countries. For more information, please visit http://www.guggenheimpartners.com.

About fi360
fi360 offers a comprehensive approach to investment fiduciary education, practice management and support that has established them as the go-to source for investment fiduciary insights. With substantiated Practices as the foundation, fi360 offers world-class fiduciary Training/Education, Tools and Resources that are essential for fiduciaries and those who provide services to fiduciaries to effectively and successfully manage their roles and responsibilities. Fi360 assists those who rely on their fiduciary education programs, professional AIF® and AIFA® designations, Web-based analytical and reporting software and resources to achieve success. For more information about fi360, please visit http://www.fi360.com or Twitter: @fiduciary360.

The Security Benefit SecurePoint RetirementSM 401(k) product is a Trust Account under §401 of the Internal Revenue Code.

Services are offered through Security Distributors, Inc., a subsidiary of Security Benefit Corporation.

Contact:
Laura Parsons
CSG-PR
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
303-887-2911
lparsons@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/sbwire-138541.htm

Hanoi, Vietnam -- (SBWIRE) -- 04/29/2012 -- With its incredible culture and unique beauty, Vietnam is the perfect destination for MICE events.

Tonny Pham, Mice Department Manager of Luxury Travel said, “Vietnam is for everyone all sizes of MICE in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and newly Centre Vietnam (Hue, Danang, Hoian).

He continued, “The international standard hotel with modern conference facilities, resort and meeting rooms and variety of attractions suiting all tastes for nature and culture lovers, golf, relaxation activities, health and spa enthusiasts, cuisine, day trip.

“Nature and culture is waiting to sustain ably serve and satisfy most discerning guests.”

Luxury Travel Co., Ltd (luxurytravelvietnam.com ). is a 100% fully registered and privately-owned Vietnamese company.

The company specializes in planning and organizing incentive trips and have been one of the leading MICE destination companies in Vietnam for over the years.

Mr Pham said, “MICE is a part of luxury, our company, which has conducted a research, has created the Meeting Incentive Conference and Exhibition Department.

“Luxury Travel is the first travel company in Indochina specializing in incentive holidays. We have first hand knowledge on MICE, and excellent relations with suppliers in the MICE industry for whatever event or incentive holiday you want. Name it we make it happen,” added Tonny.

Luxury Travel has everything you need to organize a successful MICE trip in Vietnam Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand.

“We promote Vietnam as a preferred new destination for both domestic and international MICE travels,” explained Tonny.

MICE planners can visit http://www.luxurytravelvietnam.com to organise their next successful meeting incentive conference and exhibition

Contact:
David Nguyen
Luxury Travel Group Ltd
5 Nguyen Truong To Street
Ba Dinh Dist, Hanoi 84444
84439274120
phamha@luxurytravelvietnam.com
http://www.luxurytravelvietnam.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/sbwire-138481.htm

Very Important Relationships, Inc. (VIR), MyVIR.com, an on-line marketing solutions technology company, and one of the nation’s premier builders of Internet Cash Back Rewards Shopping Malls, today announced that it now has over 10,000 corporate sponsored Cash Back Rewards Shopping Malls in operation using VIR’s technology.

Carson City, NV -- (SBWIRE) -- 04/25/2012 -- Very Important Relationships, Inc. (VIR), MyVIR.com, an on-line marketing solutions technology company, and one of the nation’s premier builders of Internet Cash Back Rewards Shopping Malls, today announced that it now has over 10,000 corporate sponsored Cash Back Rewards Shopping Malls in operation using VIR’s technology. VIR’s B2B model helps other companies’ offer their own branded CashBack Rewards Mall as a loyalty programs to the people they serve. VIR’s clients come from 6 different industries that use their own branded VIR Cash Back malls as a customer loyalty program for their customers; employee benefit for employees; association benefit for members, or a fund raising vehicle for their non profit organizations.

In the last few years, Cash Back Shopping Malls have become one of the hottest customer loyalty programs available with the top major airlines, national banks, credit card issuers, hotel chains, and national retailers all offering their own version of a Cash Back shopping mall to their customers as their own customer loyalty program. “VIR saw this emerging trend in our industry as it was unfolding and began focusing on developing technology to meet other companies’ needs.” says Jody Tallal, CEO of VIR. “Today, over 10,000 entities, from corporations to nonprofit organizations to associations to electricity Coops are using VIR’s CashBack Malls as their own loyalty program. Our clients range from companies with only a few hundred employees using a CashBack mall as an employee benefit to entities like Touchstone Energy Cooperatives, which offers its VIR mall through its Connections Co-op program that has over 32 million cardholders.”

VIR also recently released Version 2 of its Multiple Integration System Technology (M.I.S.T.) which allows VIR to create custom platforms for its clients that can integrate any array of independent website and web services. Basically anything with an I.P. address can be integrated together to create a seamless end user experience.

“MIST is a series of software, systems, and architected solutions that provide a fully integrated web solution wrapped in a pluggable, dynamic framework.” says Keith Willis, CTO of VIR. “This dynamic framework allows for the quick deployment of web applications to the cloud.

Key customizations can be made to the User Interface components allowing for a fast, streamlined deployment of any number of user-definable web configurations. In essence, mall platforms that deploys MIST architecture allows for unlimited inclusion of content, growth, and scalability, which can be developed at unparallel speeds.”

“With VIR’s newest generation of M.I.S.T,” says Tallal, “VIR can now efficiently serve the most demanding corporate needs of Fortune 100 companies. We are excited that M.I.S.T. now allows VIR to develop custom applications for our clients that no other company in our industry can match. ”

About Very Important Relationships
Very Important Relationships, Inc. is an on-line marketing solutions company and one of the nation’s premier developers of Internet CashBack Rewards shopping programs. VIR operates 17 different CashBack mall business models that serve six industries, including employee benefits, customer loyalty, nonprofit fundraising, and association benefits. Each VIR CashBack Mega Mall containing over 1,000 of the nation’s top retailers, offer CashBack on all purchases, plus “Hot Savings” offers daily from the merchants competing against one another for the members business.

VIR’s unique web based application software architecture, which is the foundation its new M.I.S.T systems, solve complex web based challenges many companies have faced for years without finding acceptable solutions. http://myvir.com.

Contact:
Jody Tallal
CEO
Very Important Relationships, Inc.
2533 N Carson Street, Suite 1V
Carson City, NV 89706
(972) 726-9595
Jody@MyVIR.com
http://myvir.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/sbwire-137667.htm

Stamford, Lincolnshire -- (SBWIRE) -- 04/24/2012 -- IDentify-It online, (Oxford, UK) the UK’s internet based store for innovative auto identification products has expanded its online presence and launched an Indian and South African version of its labeling technologies and barcode scanning store. The new sites will offer a large range of solutions direct to Indian and South African customers and their product range includes hand held computers, custom labeling, barcode scanning solutions as well as access to advice on purchasing barcode verification equipment and wireless handheld devices.

Passing comment, Richard Atkins, Commercial Director of IDentify-It said, “As our product and application range continues to grow, and after our recent extension into the US market, we identified these two new exciting and emerging markets as the next key global regions for our development” he continued, “By launching new website’s in these markets directly targeted to Indian and South African customers we can provide a better service for those customers by providing product offerings and services specifically designed for their needs.”

About IDentify-It Limited
IDentify-It Limited is an Oxford based company that specializes in supplying a broad range of barcode scanning and labeling technologies. By providing products online IDentify-It Limited offers highly competitive prices to its customers and the freedom to purchase in their own time. With the backing and support of the Axicon Innovation Group, world renowned barcode verification experts, iDentify-it Limited aims to grow by developing innovative product ranges for the auto identification industry.

IDentify-It Limited encourages anyone with an interest in handheld computers, custom labels and auto identification products to visit their new Indian and South African stores, the site’s are now live and can be accessed from - http://www.identify-it.com

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

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/sbwire-137243.htm

Hollywood, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 04/23/2012 -- A pub in Edinburg, Scotland, where indie bands play their music. THE STARS: a Scottish guitarist and singer, a French drummer, and an Argentinean bassist - all in their twenties. THE SCENE: three young musicians meet one night, become friends, and form a band that in 2007 rocked myspace.com with a couple of singles. The result of this equation is the power trio THE GLAMMERS (http://www.theglammers.com), now launching their new single, Six Hours Later.

“Six hours later” talks about the first encounter of the band. The song is the first track of the group’s first album – to be launched this year. It is an autobiographic song played in the purest indie rock style. Syd, She and Rex Glammer, the group members, wanted to tell the story of their very first encounter; each of them coming from different countries and backgrounds. To learn how it all started, let’s go back in time and discover a little bit more about each member of THE GLAMMERS.

SYD GLAMMER, the guitarist and lead singer, was born to Scottish parents (an unconventional couple - an inventor and an archeologist). Introverted but very creative, SYD spent his childhood listening to his father’s vinyl records – Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, The Doors, just too name a few. When his parents tragically were killed in a plane crash, Syd enrolled in an art school in Edinburg, his hometown. SYD is dedicated to his passion - the rock and roll from the 1960s and 70s. He also collects vintage sound equipment.

REX GLAMMER, the drummer, was born in Annecy, France, and is the son of a hippie couple who lived in an agricultural community in the Alps. As his grandparents participated in the historic May 1968 worker strikes in Paris, REX carries on his family political convictions. Among his favorite music artists are The Kinks, The Who, Leonard Cohen, and Patti Smith. He also loves Banksy’s graffiti and always tries to explore the cities he visits, photographing graffiti for his collection.

SHE GLAMMER, the bassist, is an Argentinean girl from Buenos Aires. She might as well be considered a world citizen since she spent her childhood travelling with her parents who are diplomats. Fascinated by drawings, tattoos and fashion, SHE listens to Blondie, Madonna (of course!), Velvet Underground, Sex Pistols, and David Bowie. When she was 17, she packed her bags put her contrabass in her backpack and travelled the world playing in different bands.

The trio met and found that they were passionate for music and had undeniable talent when it comes to music and art. SYD enrolled in Edinburg Art School after spending his childhood being homeschooled. REX was sent to the art school when his parents noticed his incredible talent. And SHE... well, she arrived in Edinburg carrying her backpack and her double bass after roaming about Europe. To make a living during her travels, She started working in that pub where SYD and REX frequented, and where indie bands played every night. It took just one encounter to unite the three to form a band.

The first two songs from THE GLAMMERS to debut in myspace were, “Messensheriff” and “Don’t Lose It” (listen at http://www.theglammers.com). The hit songs had more than 1.5 million views (music and videos). After these releases, THE GLAMMERS took some time to revamp their vow to create cool indie rock music.

The global launch of “Six hours later”, planned for April 10th, brings back the band’s indie roots, the rough lyrics, and the stylish universe of a band that transcends reality in search of an experience that goes beyond music. The single will be sold on iTunes and Amazon.com, in addition to other online stores (learn more at the band’s official website: http://www.theglammers.com).

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

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

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/sbwire-137034.htm

Dunkermotor reduces size of its 45mm iBLDC™ (Intelligent Brushless) motors with integral 4-quadrant speed controls by 25%, while maintaining power, torque and efficiency.

Elgin, IL -- (SBWIRE) -- 04/23/2012 -- Responding to customer requirements for smaller size, higher power density intelligent servo motors, Dunkermotor has been able to shorten its iBLDC™ (Intelligent Brushless DC) motors with integral 4-quadrant speed controls in the 45mm frame size by 25%, while maintaining the same power and torque capabilities and motor efficiencies.

The length of the new BG45x15SI was reduced from 120mm to 88mm (4.7 to 3.5 in.) and the length of the more powerful BG45x30SI was reduced from 135mm to 103mm (5.3 to 4.0 in.)

Under the banner of "everything on board" these high power density, under 100 watt, compact intelligent servo motors offer true 4-quadrant digital speed control with programmable features.

The new BG45SI motors, with a height and width dimension of 44 mm (1.73 in.) feature newly designed digital control and power electronics that offer a significant overall package size reduction of over 25% compared to its predecessors. In addition, the motor connector design has been updated for further space saving and convenience in mounting and connection.

With a 12 or 24 volt power source, at a nominal speed of 3000 rpm, the longer of the two units, the BG45x30SI is continuous duty rated for 80 watts (1/10 hp) power output. Based on the improved design, however, the motors can achieve peak powers of four times the continuous duty rating and, therefore, a starting torque of up to 100 N-cm (142 oz-in) is possible.

The motor target speed can be set using an analog +/-10VDC input signal. Alternatively, different set speeds can be selected via digital inputs using simple start-up software.

The drive has a total of 4 digital inputs. Of these, two are for selecting the four operating conditions: rotation clockwise/counter-clockwise, stop with free running, and stop with holding torque. The other two digital inputs are designed for the selection of the fixed motor speed with acceleration and deceleration ramps.

In addition, there are 3 digital outputs with pulse output functions (12 pulses per revolution), the direction of rotation - assigned and fault output signal.

Other than long-life ball bearings, the motors contain no other wear-prone mechanical components and are, therefore, ideally suited for continuous duty applications.

"These versatile, intelligent brushless motors are designed for dependable, long-life use in a wide variety of factory and commercial automation, as well as medical and laboratory equipment, applications," said John Morehead, vice president, business development for Dunkermotor. "Next to reducing parts count, being able to reduce size is one of our top customer interests and that has driven this improved new design."

The BG45SI motors are part of a complete family of modular components such as planetary and worm gearboxes, encoders, and brakes which offer virtually infinitely variable configurations to meet most application requirements.

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

Contact:
John Morehead
Dunkermotoren USA Inc.
2511 Technology Drive, Suite 105
Elgin, IL 60178
224-293-1300
john.morehead@dunkermotoren.com
http://www.dunkermotor.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/sbwire-137112.htm

Gucci Mane Makes Appearance at Club Underground While Working on Major Film Project

Tampa, FL -- (SBWIRE) -- 04/20/2012 -- Hip-Hop star Gucci Mane is not being the ordinary rapper nowadays. He’s been busy focusing on branching out of the music world and making a transition to the big screen. Gucci recently took over the city of Tampa to work on the film “Spring Breakers” and to also make an appearance at Club Underground. The Atlanta, GA native has been excited about working on the new movie and getting his acting on. "Spring Breakers" is slated for an early 2013 release and features mega stars James Franco and Selena Gomez along with a host of other celebrity cameos. James Franco is best known for his role as The Green Goblin in the Spider Man Movie series. Selena Gomez who is another major film artist stars on Disney&aposs "Witches of Waverly Place" and has also starred in "Ramona & Beezus in 2011."

Gucci Mane made an appearance at Club Underground where he partied with adoring fans and members of his entourage. The Southern breed emcee is a regular performer at Club Underground, so Gucci popping up wasn&apost a big surprise for many of the regular club goers. Club Underground is usually one of Gucci&aposs favorite spots to party when he&aposs in Tampa. On Saturday, Club Underground featured Gucci Mane for their Celebrity Easter Weekend and offered drink specials and a live DJ all night long.

Gucci is in the works of releasing new music and several other film appearances for 2012 and 2013. “Gucci Mane has a charismatic appeal and knows how to appeal to his audience. I only expect big things from him in the very near future." Replied, Durby Brandon of Capital Connections Agency. For information regarding Gucci Mane or info about "Spring Breakers" log on to: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2101441/

Club Underground is located at: Club Underground is located at 802-806 e Whiting Street (On the Corner of Jefferson) Downtown Tampa, FL. To book an event at Club Underground or to perform at during a live show please calls 813-221-3582.

About Capital Connection Agency
CCA boasts a very successful track record booking major talent for events from coast to coast and all across the globe. Capital Connections’ pool of A-list talent turns the night life into a real cash cow for club owners and venues every year. CCA has location on the East and West Coast, Paris, Spain and in Canada. CCA has been providing talent for over a decade and they do not plan to stop offering quality talent any time soon. You can find more information about Capital Connection Agency at: 1-866-785-1117 http://www.capitalconnectionsagency.com or Durby.Brandon@capitalconnectionagency.com

Contact:
Darnell Clark
Image Makers Media Group, LLC
646 Antone Street
Atlanta, GA 30318
412-353-9240
Dclark@imagemakersmedia.com
http://www.capitalconnectionsagency.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/sbwire-136921.htm

Video on Demand program resulted from Elvin Bishop’s live performance December 2011 at the Club Fox in Redwood City

Redwood City, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 04/18/2012 -- Renowned and popular Blues artist Elvin Bishop’s first Video on Demand (VOD) from his stellar December 2011 performance is now being made available at venmundi.com. Bishop chose his December performance at Club Fox to take advantage of VenMundi’s new technology.

Bishop’s Video On Demand will be previewed at venmundi.com. The on demand concert appearance will be released on Sunday, April 15, 2012 and will be available from April 15 – June 15. A preview of the Video On Demand concert can be found at: http://ebpromo.venmundi.com. Easy to access, go to http://www.venmundi.com, register as a member which is FREE to all and see a preview and purchase the on demand view for $5.

Elvin Bishop comments, "I’ve enjoyed working with VenMundi on this project – they respect and understand what artists want. Not only was I able to do the show and stream it live from the Club Fox but now I’m able to get the Video on Demand (VOD) of the performance to my fans!"

Bishop’s December concert marked a world-wide first when VenMundi broke down geographic barriers making this rare show available to fans around the globe by streaming the concert live, and now on-demand, through venmundi.com . This was the first public demonstration of VenMundi’s patented capabilities.

VenMundi was created when software developer and entertainer Ron Parks was traveling in London, listening to Jazz artists in numerous clubs. He reflected on how great it was to hear the music and how sad it was that the world could not be there. With the new capabilities in streaming and technology, he wanted to provide a way for the artists to reach fans wherever they are, whenever they want it on their computers, home entertainment systems, tablets and mobile devices.

Ron Parks, VenMundi Founder explains, “VenMundi lets musicians reach their fans live and in-person and simultaneously via streaming video on the Internet with a level of visual quality and audio clarity rarely found online. Even better, fans can soon queue up concerts from their favorite artist’s on-demand so they get what they want, when and how they want it with uncompromised quality and an experience that is almost as good as being there.”

VenMundi.com is a portal, providing live and video on-demand content on the Internet for a price per event through laptops, Smartphones, tablets and home entertainment centers. Although the initial focus is on the entertainment industry, the possibilities are endless. VenMundi’s patented process includes the workflow and the documents that allow the artist, the venue and the viewer to participate in a VenMundi broadcast. We are the “easy button” for Artists, Venues and Fans.

Barbra Higgins, VenMundi President adds, “We launched our company with this great partnership with Elvin Bishop. He has a dedicated following around the world, as a result Elvin’s live performance at the Fox was sold out. But now through VenMundi’s platform and subsequent sales of the VOD, thousands more can enjoy the show where ever they like. Comments from our recent test events indicate patrons are excited to have access to the music they love from the artists they have followed for years when, where and how they want it through VenMundi’s high quality live and on-demand streaming capabilities.”

VenMundi’s patented process enables the uninterrupted transmission of the content, which by using our methodology is of the highest quality and manages the revenues and fan base in an efficient, accessible, easy-to-use format. Every aspect of the licensing and contractual complexities of the music and entertainment industry is addressed effectively. VenMundi is not only poised to be the de-facto destination for live entertainment on the web, but also the Internet equivalent of a lecture/seminar hall, auditorium, theater, stadium, fundraiser event, and much more. In addition, VenMundi will provide artists the opportunity to market their performances via VOD from the live shows. The full entire concert DVD will be made available for purchase on May 27th at the Santa Cruz Blues Festival and will be available in stores shortly thereafter.

For more information, contact info@venmundi.com

About VenMundiTM
VenMundiTM is an early stage company that has developed a proprietary process and the technology to stream “live” entertainment onto all three screens including mobile devices, laptops, and the living room entertainment system. The patented process, includes the workflow and the documents that allow the artist, the venue and the viewer to participate in a VenMundi broadcast. The technology enables the uninterrupted transmission of the content and manages the revenues and viewer base in an efficient, accessible, easy-to-use format. Every aspect of the licensing and contractual complexities of the music and entertainment industry is addressed effectively. http://www.venmundi.com the “Easy Button” for venues, artists and fans!

About Elvin Bishop
Mr. Bishop has been traveling the Blues road longer than most. A founding member of the groundbreaking Paul Butterfield Blues, Elvin has recordings with Clifton Chenier, John Lee Hooker, and The Allman Brothers. He achieved true Pop success with his own 1976 smash hit “Fooled Around and Fell in Love.”

From deep down gutbucket Blues played in smoky South Side Chicago taverns, to raucous roadhouse R&B, he’s instilled all of his music with passion, creativity, and a healthy helping of wisdom, wit and good humor. http://www.elvinbishopmusic.com/

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

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/sbwire-136621.htm

Juno Award winning Canadian jazz singer Kellylee Evans will make her debut New York headlining performance at the Apollo Music Cafe on Friday, May 11, 2012, as part of the second annual Harlem Jazz Shines Festival, which runs from May 7-13, 2012.

New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 04/18/2012 -- Juno Award winning Canadian jazz singer Kellylee Evans will make her debut New York headlining performance at the Apollo Music Cafe on Friday, May 11, 2012, as part of the second annual Harlem Jazz Shines Festival, which runs from May 7-13, 2012. Evans will be featuring material from her inspiring tribute to jazz icon Nina Simone, entitled NINA, which earned her a 2011 Juno Award for BEST JAZZ VOCAL ALBUM. Her show at the Apollo Music Cafe, which is located on the second floor of the legendary Apollo Theater in Harlem, will start at 10:00 PM. Doors will open at 9 PM.

Evans, who was recently signed to Universal Music/France, and is recording material for her next CD, will be performing with a jazz trio of internationally renowned musicians including Francois Moutin on Acoustic Bass, Marvin Sewell on guitar, and Mark McClean on drums. Both Moutin and Sewell recorded NINA with Evans, (in Paris) and Moutin has performed with her several times in noted clubs and music festivals throughout France since the record was released last year.

The Harlem-wide jazz festival reunites the Festival&aposs founding partners, the Apollo Theater, Harlem Stage and Jazzmobile, and focuses on the venues, music, and artists that were central to Harlem&aposs cultural landscape from the 1920s through the 1970s and on contemporary jazz artists. Bringing both established and emerging artists to famed Harlem venues, the festival will pay tribute to Club Harlem, Clark Monroe&aposs Uptown House, Havana San Juan Club, Small&aposs Paradise, Minton&aposs Playhouse, Showman&aposs Cafe, Park Palace, Lenox Lounge and the Apollo Theater. In addition to concerts at Jazz Shrines, other Festival events will take place at Harlem Stage Gatehouse, Columbia University and a variety of locations throughout the Harlem area.

Designed to draw a diverse audience of neighborhood residents, New Yorkers and tourists, all events are offered at the affordable price of $10, and tickets for many of the Harlem Jazz Shrines Festival events are available now. Concerts are scheduled to allow people the option of attending several events each day, continuing the tradition of non-stop jazz throughout Harlem. For tickets and more information on the Festival and its partners, visit the Harlem Jazz Shrines&apos web site at http://www.Harlemjazzshrines.org and/or the organizations&apos web sites at http://www.apollotheater.org, http://www.harlemstage.org and http://www.jazzmobile.org.

NINA (released by Plus Loin Records in France and Canada) is Kellylee Evan’s third solo release. She independently released GOOD GIRL (2008) and FIGHT OR FLIGHT? (That earned a Juno Nomination in 2006). She drew early critical-acclaim for capturing second place at the prestigious Thelonius Monk International Jazz Vocal Competition, and has toured extensively throughout Canada. She has also performed in the US, France, Greece, and earlier this year performed at the Festival International de Jazz de Port-au-Prince in Haiti. For more information about Kellylee Evans, go to, http://www.kellyleeevans.com.

For more information on Kellylee Evans, please contact Chip Schutzman at Miles High Productions: Chip@mileshighproductions.com / 323-806-0400

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

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/sbwire-136619.htm