Monthly Archives: April 2012

Healthcare

IAPAM’s Announces its NEW Advanced Aesthetic Medicine Symposium November 10-11, 2012

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The NEW IAPAM Advanced Aesthetic Symposium is scheduled for November 10-11, 2012 in sunny Scottsdale, Arizona.

Las Vegas, Nevada, April 27, 2012 — The International Association for Physicians In Aesthetic Medicine (IAPAM) announces the launch of its NEW Advanced Aesthetic Medicine Symposium. This advanced aesthetic medical seminar is for physicians looking to push their aesthetics practice to the next level. The Advanced Symposium will provide physicians with advanced instruction and hands-on training in the top minimally invasive modalities: botox ®, dermal fillers, lasers, microdermabrasion and chemical peels. The NEW IAPAM Advanced Aesthetic Symposium is scheduled for November 10-11, 2012 in sunny Scottsdale, Arizona.

Presented by the IAPAM (http://www.iapam.com), this NEW Advanced Aesthetics Symposium (http://www.aestheticmedicinesymposium.com/advanced-aesthetic-medicine-and-botox-training-symposium) is designed to give experienced aesthetic physicians an opportunity to learn the latest cosmetic trends and techniques. As with all IAPAM training, physicians will have the opportunity to both see the procedures, as well as perform them, in this comprehensive, hands-on workshop. This advanced aesthetic medical program will include: advanced botox ® training, advanced dermal filler training, using lasers for scar revision & treating stretch marks, using dermal micro-channeling systems for skin rejuvenation, and much more.

Program Highlights:
• Advanced hands-on Botox ® and Filler Training
• Treating Stretch Marks and Scars
• Treating Acne
• Fat Transfer for Facial Rejuvenation
• Delivering Topical Serums using Dermafrac ®
• Advanced Chemical Peel Techniques
• Latest Aesthetic Industry Trends

The Advanced Aesthetic Medicine Symposium offers physicians two days of the most intensive hands-on advanced botox ® injection training as well as advanced techniques for the other non-surgical modalities. The medical faculty instructing at the IAPAM’s Advanced Aesthetic Medicine Symposium is experienced in the industry’s best practices, particularly regarding the teaching of Botox ® and other neurotoxin injection techniques and protocols. Physicians who complete the IAPAM’s Advanced Symposium will be certified by the IAPAM, a voluntary professional association of physicians and supporters, which sets standards for the aesthetic medical profession.

For more information on the November 10-11, 2012 Advanced Aesthetic Medicine Symposium, please go to http://www.aestheticmedicinesymposium.com/advanced-aesthetic-medicine-and-botox-training-symposium or contact the IAPAM at 1-800-219-5108 ext. 704.

Botox is a trademark of Allergan, Inc.

About the International Association for Physicians in Aesthetic Medicine (IAPAM)
The International Association for Physicians in Aesthetic Medicine is a voluntary association of physicians and supporters, which sets standards for the aesthetic medical profession. The goal of the association is to offer education, ethical standards, credentialing, and member benefits. IAPAM membership is open to all licensed medical doctors (MDs), dentists (DDSs/DMDs) doctors of osteopathic medicine (DOs), physicians assistants (PAs) and nurse practitioners (NPs). The IAPAM offers aesthetic medicine and hCG medical weight management programs, including: Botox ® training, medical aesthetic training, laser training, physician hCG training, and aesthetic practice business training. Additional information about the association can be accessed through the IAPAM’s website (http://www.iapam.com) or by contacting:

Jeff Russell, Executive-Director
International Association for Physicians in Aesthetic Medicine (IAPAM)
1-800-219-5108 x704

Business

Baby Boomers Are Fastest Growing Segment in Entrepreneurial Wave

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Recent Event Attracted Nearly 100 Baby Boomers to Discuss Benefits of Entrepreneurship

Boulder, CO, April 26, 2012 – The Center for Productive Longevity (CPL), which serves as the bridge between people 55 and older and the opportunities that enable them to continue in productive activities, today announced the results of the first in a series of four meetings, “Spotlight on Entrepreneurship Opportunities for Baby Boomers.” During a time of high unemployment and low economic growth, CPL initiated the 2012 series to stimulate the interest of Baby Boomers in new-business creation.

The first event was held at the Kauffman Foundation in Kansas City, MO, a focal point for entrepreneurship in America, and attracted almost 100 participants to engage in interactive discussion and dialogue about entrepreneurship. Sponsors of the event included the Kauffman Foundation, AARP, the National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship (NACCE) and CPL.

Written evaluations from the event indicated that almost all participants have a strong desire to start a new business; 97 percent stated they are more likely to create a new business as a result of attending the daylong meeting.

These responses mirror a national trend where increasingly more Baby Boomers are starting their own businesses. In fact, according to the Kauffman Foundation, from 1996 to 2011 the number of Baby Boomers starting a business increased by nearly seven percent, the largest increase among all age groups. For people 20-44, the number of people starting a new business actually fell about five percent during that same time period.

“There is a wide range of individual, economic and societal benefits for the Baby Boomers to start new businesses,” says William Zinke, 85, founder and president of CPL. “People are living longer, yet often retiring earlier, and recent AARP studies confirm that 80 percent of Baby Boomers indicate their intent to continue working after leaving regular career jobs.”

Additional feedback from the meeting found that 87 percent of attendees stated that the event increased their awareness and understanding of the benefits and opportunities provided by entrepreneurship “very much” or “a great deal.” Seventy-seven percent indicated that they were “a great deal” or “very much” more likely to pursue programs or courses on entrepreneurship as a result of attending the event.

Speakers from the March meeting included Benno C. Schmidt, Jr., Interim President & CEO, Kauffman Foundation and former President, Yale University; Bruce Merrifield, former U.S. Undersecretary of Commerce and Chaired Professor of Entrepreneurship, the Wharton School; Mary Beth Izard, author of BoomerPreneurs; Jerry Kelly, CEO and Co-Founder, Silpada Designs; and Danny O’Neill, President and Founder, Roasterie.

Human Resource Services, Inc. (HRS) created CPL as a non-profit to serve as the bridge between people 55 and older and opportunities that enable them to continue as productive contributors. The economic benefits of enabling people 55+ to continue working include providing them with needed income, contributing to–instead of drawing from–entitlement programs, reducing unemployment and increasing national economic growth.

The next “Spotlight on Entrepreneurship Opportunities for Baby Boomers” meetings are scheduled to be held at Babson College in Wellesley, MA on September 14, Northwestern University/Kellogg School of Business in Chicago on October 11, and the University of Denver on November 15. To register, visit
http://www.ctrpl.org/entrepreneurship-meeting/overview. Follow the Center for Productive Longevity on Facebook at facebook.com/CTRPL.

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

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

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

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

Business

Consumer-Driven Deal site, SoRewarding Debuts in Denver with First User Deal Request Fulfilled by Whole Foods Market

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SoRewarding gives Denver consumers the power to negotiate the deals they want while supporting the charity they love

Denver, Colorado, April 26, 2012 – Denver-based SoRewarding, a social network that lets consumers create and request their own deals, launches Thursday, April 26 by filling its first consumer deal request with member merchant Whole Foods Market. Turning the world of group deal sites on its head, SoRewarding.com is a conduit for the consumer to negotiate the offer they want directly with the merchant they choose, without any pre-negotiated terms or third party interference.

Amy Watkins of Denver requested the Whole Foods deal, and was thrilled to hear it had been accepted. “I can’t believe Whole Foods accepted my deal request for a $20 gift card for just $10! As a mom, I’m always looking for ways to save money while giving my family the best. SoRewarding.com and Whole Foods just made that a lot easier this month,” said Watkins.

“Driving donations to non-profits in our communities via SoRewarding will have a major impact on groups who truly make a difference in the lives of others,” says Heather Larrabee, Associate Marketing Coordinator for the Rocky Mountain Region of Whole Foods Market. “We are thrilled to participate in this inaugural deal and are excited about this revolutionary new model.”

In celebration of filling SoRewarding’s first consumer deal request, Whole Foods Market is extending the deal to the first 500 SoRewarding members who purchase it.

SoRewarding’s proprietary Consumer Driven Deals (CDD) feature is simple and easy to use, connecting consumers directly to merchants in a social networking setting. To participate, both merchants and consumers simply request an invitation via the SoRewarding homepage, and upon receipt, create their unique, free profile page. Members looking for a great deal just need to gather a group of 10 or more friends or buyers and submit their deal request to the merchant via their SoRewarding profile page or smartphone app. Each time an offer is purchased, each individual buyer can select a participating SoRewarding non-profit organization to receive a cash donation.

Once a merchant receives an offer request, they have 24-hours to accept, reject or counter-offer the request, which can be done from the SoRewarding dashboard, or from a smartphone. The merchant has the power to control all terms and conditions of the offer with the click of a button.

In addition to benefiting consumers and non-profits, SoRewarding stands alone in benefitting the merchant as well. There are no fees to become a member, and merchants who sign up and enable their Consumer Driven Deals in the first month (through May 25, 2012), will retain 85 percent of the revenues generated through their deals for as long as they are SoRewarding members. Additionally, merchants who sign up after the first month will retain 75 percent of their consumer driven deal revenues for the life of their account; which is by far the highest profit commission paid by any group buy deal site.

“In this economy, consumers are looking for a way to save money, and companies are looking for ways to both retain existing customers while attracting new ones,” said Marion Mariathasan, SoRewarding CEO. “People are tired of receiving dozens of emails every day and scouring them for deals that might be of interest to them. With SoRewarding, consumers can easily connect to the merchants that appeal to them most.” Continues Mariathasan, “We have automated everything; connecting consumers, merchants, schools and non-profit organizations together through our social network. Saving money, making money and raising money has never been So Rewarding.”

SoRewarding’s non-profit partners include the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Denver, Make A Wish Foundation of Colorado, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Colorado, The Rise School of Denver, Colorado Uplift, Seeds of Hope, Rocky Mountain Multiple Sclerosis Center, the Morgan Adams Foundationi, My Sister’s Closet, Mile High Leaps and Bounds, and the Colorado Youth Tennis Foundation.

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

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

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

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

Contact:
Amy Larson
CSG|PR
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
303.433.7020
alarson@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

Business

AAA welcomes news that Japanese Pension Funds are turning to Alternatives

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A new survey by JPMorgan Chase has found that Japanese pension funds are eager to invest more in alternative investments – and particularly in hedge funds.

Boston, MA, April 26, 2012 – A new survey by JPMorgan Chase has found that Japanese pension funds are eager to invest more in alternative investments – and particularly in hedge funds.

The move towards alternative asset classes is due to the fallout from a loss of pension holders money from investments in traditional assets, claims Alternative Asset Analysis (AAA), an alternative investment advocacy group.

AAA claims that Japan is in a difficult situation with a rapidly ageing population. Pension funds are under pressure after one fund lost $1 billion – prompting them all to considering less risky alternative funds, which can be effective in diversifying portfolios.

AAA, which supports a range of alternative investment options, claims that more and more institutional investors are turning to alternatives in order to steer clear of assets that are impacted by general economic trends. Alternatives, such as real estate, commodities and timber, tend not to correlate closely with equities, and, as a result, are less likely to drop in value when traditional assets lose value.

Japan is facing the first year in which its baby boomer generation is set to retire and its working population is expected to drop in number dramatically. It is trying different approaches to pension fund investment as a result.

AAA’s analysis partner, Anthony Johnson, explained that this new alternative tactic in Japan reflects a general international trend towards alternative asset classes. He said, “following the global economic crisis, investors have changed their attitudes to investing and are looking for tangible assets to invest in that will offer long-term income.”

He added, “There is also a growing emphasis on ethical investments and investing in assets like real estate, precious metals, art and forestry offer an alternative that avoids dealing with stocks and shares and bonds – and banks.”

AAA supports ethical investments such as sustainable forestry projects like those run in Brazil by firms like Greenwood Management.

Contact:
Anthony Johnson
Alternative Asset Analysis
71 Commercial St
Boston, MA 02109-1320
617-939-9596
info@alternativeassetanalysis.com
http://www.alternativeassetanalysis.com

Business, Consumer Services, Financial, Internet & Online, Shopping

OKPAY.com Introducing Virtual Prepaid MasterCard

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OKPAY is one of the most dynamically developing financial company nowadays. OKPAY is available to clients worldwide since 2010. Providing a customer-focused, convenient and fully fledged financial services have always been the Company’s credo.

Almost a billion of consumers don’t have a credit card and many who have a card don’t wish to use it because of the various security concerns. In order to provide a solution for these customers OKPAY Company is offering a Virtual Card feature.

Main benefits of the virtual cards are maximum security, no credit assessment, availability for immediate use.

OKPAY Virtual Debit Card Benefits

OKPAY MasterCard provides clients an easy and secure online payment source with several million retailers worldwide. A short time upon card application approval client obtains virtual card credentials (containing primary card information required for online purchases).

Virtual card has a temporary number that can be used for one time or several online purchases. This card number is useless to hackers, because even if the card number becomes uncovered it will not be useful as the card most likely won’t have available funds.

To keep online shopping even safer OKPAY Company recommends transferring funds to the virtual card at the moment when ready to make a purchase. This way the transfer amount can match the checkout price and the card balance will remain empty until next payment.

Identity theft is also a major concern nowadays. The virtual card number does not lead to any real credit card numbers or bank accounts associated with it. OKPAY Virtual Card is a Pre-Paid card, which means that it has a spending limit, which is not linked to a Wallet balance.

It only takes a few days to generate and receive a virtual card number that can be immediately used for purchases as a valid card over the internet. There are over 33 million MasterCard® merchant locations worldwide.

“Our goal is to create an ultimate payment financial service, suitable and convenient for both sellers and buyers. We have celebrated our second birthday not long ago, and we are glad to see our client’s satisfaction and continuous support,” says Konstantin Romanovsky, OKPAY President and CEO. “We are happy to keep improving OKPAY. This time we would like to offer you a great option for secure online shopping – OKPAY Virtual Debit Card!”

For more information on OKPAY Virtual Debit Card solution visit OKPAY News.

###

Contact Details: https://www.okpay.com/
+44 20 8123 2193
22 Georgiou Griva Digheni Street, Limassol, 3106, Cyprus.

 

Healthcare

Eating Recovery Center Encourages Healthy Choices in Preparation for Summer Fun, Food and Fashion

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Eating Disorders Treatment Center Urges Individuals to Avoid Five Dangerous Springtime Weight Loss Behaviors

Denver, CO, April 25, 2012 – As a barrage of advertisements urging men and women to begin weight loss programs in preparation for summer activities hit the airwaves and span the pages of magazines, Eating Recovery Center (www.EatingRecoveryCenter.com), an international center for eating disorders recovery, urges springtime dieting caution. Because diets are one of the most common eating disorders triggers, Eating Recovery Center advises individuals to think twice before beginning “quick fix” weight loss regimens and to consult a physician before engaging in diet or exercise programs.

A 2010 Experian Simmons DataStream survey showed that dieting among American women peaked in late spring/early summer, a timeframe in which a reported 48.5 percent of women said they were currently dieting. Too often, efforts to prepare for summer turn to unhealthy – and sometimes even dangerous – weight loss behaviors with the goal of feeling more comfortable in swimsuits and form-fitting, revealing summer clothing and “looking good” for activities such as vacations and weddings.

“In general society tends to support, encourage and even applaud dieting that is perceived as preparatory for an event or time of year,” said Julie Holland, MHS, CEDS, chief marketing officer of Eating Recovery Center. “This ‘community-supported’ weight loss is dangerous because it could potentially send someone down the path of developing an eating disorder, while his or her friends and family unknowingly encourage unhealthy behaviors.”

In an effort to prevent dangerous summertime behaviors that could potentially trigger eating disorders, Eating Recovery Center urges individuals to avoid the five most common weight loss and dieting behaviors:

1. Restrictive diets: Gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan diets and cleanses have been popularized by celebrities as seemingly successful methods for slimming down. Some people have food allergies or medical conditions for which these types of restrictive diets can be helpful. However, for the vast majority, removing entire food categories from a diet can rob the body of essential nutrients and kick-start a pattern of food restriction.

2. “Thinspiration”: While social networking sites such as Tumblr, Pinterest and Instagram have restricted users from posting pro-eating disorders content, thinspiration still runs rampant online. What may start as casually posting photos of men and women at an individual’s “goal weight” or “ideal” body shape can quickly spiral out of control and drive unrealistic, obsessive thinking and behaviors.

3. Crash or fad diets: Dieting is the most common behavior that triggers eating disorders. Furthermore, diets simply do not work; about 95 percent of people who lose weight by dieting will regain the weight in one to five years.

4. Excessive exercise: Over-exercising can result in excessive wear and tear on muscles, bones and joints. Furthermore, if individuals do not rest and give their bodies time to recuperate, injuries can quickly follow.

5. Diet pills or aids: Diet pills, diuretics and other over-the-counter weight loss aids promise users a quick fix. However, the long-term consequences of diet pill use can include irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, gastrointestinal problems and – in serious cases – even death.

“Any weight loss regimen that seems too good to be true almost certainly is,” explains Holland. “Rather than looking for a ‘quick fix,’ make a choice to practice a healthier, sustainable lifestyle that emphasizes body acceptance and realistic goals and focuses on moderation.”

Eating Recovery Center recommends that anyone seeking to begin a weight loss program first consult a physician. Individuals with a family history of eating disorders who engage in weight loss behaviors are at a significantly higher risk of triggering an eating disorder.

Visit EatingRecoveryCenter.com for more information about eating disorders support and recommendations for ways to intervene should a loved one’s weight loss regimen go too far.

About Eating Recovery Center
Eating Recovery Center is an international center for eating disorders recovery providing comprehensive treatment for anorexia, bulimia, EDNOS and binge eating disorder. Denver-based facilities include the Behavioral Hospital for Adults, the Behavioral Hospital for Children and Adolescents, and the Partial Hospitalization Program and Outpatient Services. In addition, Eating Recovery Center, in partnership with Summit Eating Disorders and Outreach Program, offers Partial Hospitalization and Outpatient Services in Sacramento, California, as well as Intensive Outpatient and Outpatient Services in Fresno and Roseville. Under the personal guidance and care of Drs. Kenneth Weiner, Craig Johnson, Emmett Bishop and Ovidio Bermudez, our collaborative programs provide a full spectrum of services for children, adolescents and adults. Our integrated programs offer patients a continuum of care that includes Inpatient, Residential, Partial Hospitalization, Intensive Outpatient and Outpatient services. Our compassionate team of professionals collaborates with treating professionals and loved ones to cultivate lasting behavioral change. For more information please contact us at 877-218-1344 or info@EatingRecoveryCenter.com or confidentially chat live on our website at www.EatingRecoveryCenter.com.

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

Education

Notre Dame College Announces Tuition Deferment for Nurses in Online RN to BSN Program

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Online RN to BSN students using tuition benefits from their employer can now defer payment until they’ve been reimbursed

South Euclid, Ohio, April 25, 2012 – Notre Dame College (NDC) has announced a new benefit for its online RN to BSN degree students: tuition deferment. With many students receiving tuition reimbursement from their employers, the program is being offered in an effort to eliminate the need for students to pay out of pocket and wait to be reimbursed. Under the new deferment program, NDC will provide students taking advantage of employer-provided tuition assistance up to eight weeks to pay for a previous semester’s courses.

“Many top hospitals are now requiring nurses to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and Notre Dame College understands the need for flexibility both in course delivery and payment,” said Beth Ford, Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid at NDC. “While tuition for our online RN to BSN degree is the lowest of any Ohio institution, we recognize that for many students, waiting to be reimbursed for school costs by their employer is still a financial burden. This enables students to complete the training they need without taking out loans or pinching pennies to pay in advance for what will ultimately be covered by their tuition benefits.”

Current and prospective students interested in enrolling in the tuition deferment program should contact Adult Admissions at 216.373.5250 for more information.

“The flexibility that tuition deferment provides is incredibly helpful,” said Carmen Whatley, RN, and an online RN to BSN student at Notre Dame College. “I’m working full time as a nurse and taking care of my family, so the option to earn my BSN entirely online and wait to pay tuition until I’ve been reimbursed by my employer was important. However, what has impressed me the most has been the amazing support my instructors have provided and the sense of community even though I’m learning online.”

Tuition deferment is not the only new enhancement to NDC’s RN to BSN program. Notre Dame College recently revised its transfer credit policies related to the program. NDC will now consider more types of transfer credits in an effort to remove barriers for students who have graduated with an associate’s degree in nursing, but who would like to advance their education and pursue their BSN. Additionally, NDC is also one of the few schools to offer a completely online RN to BSN program. Because RN to BSN students have already passed a state licensing exam and have demonstrated proficiency in a clinical environment, NDC does not require students to complete additional in-hospital clinical training during the program.

“Our all-online format is a nod to our students’ skill level,” said Beth Ford. “For students like ours that already have significant clinical experience, requiring more clinical training would be a redundant exercise and an unnecessary expense. Instead we prefer to devote time to the courses that develop the leadership, management and critical thinking skills students need to advance in their career.”

For more information about Notre Dame College or its online degree programs, visit online.notredamecollege.edu. In addition to the online RN to BSN degree, NDC offers several other online programs as well, including a Master of Education degree (M.Ed.), a Master of Arts in Security Policy and Teacher Education Evening Licensure (TEEL).

About Notre Dame College:
Notre Dame College, a Catholic institution in the tradition of the Sisters of Notre Dame, educates a diverse population in the liberal arts for personal, professional and global responsibility. NDC offers bachelor’s degrees in 30 disciplines plus interdisciplinary programs and self-designed majors. A master’s degree in education and a teacher certification program are available as well as continuing and professional development programs for adult learners. Notre Dame College offers 22 athletic programs for men and women, including football.

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

Education

Odebrecht Award for Sustainable Development Releases Names of Judges for 2012 Program

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World-class experts to determine winning sustainable development ideas in $65,000 award competition.

CORAL GABLES, Fla. – April 26, 2012 — Odebrecht USA and Braskem have named the panel of judges who will select the winners of the Odebrecht Award for Sustainable Development. The award program seeks to uncover the most innovative ideas, practices, methods, and solutions for sustainable engineering and chemical development. Comprised of top industry leaders in sustainability, engineering, public policy, economic development, and chemistry, the panel includes:

• Harvey M. Bernstein, McGraw-Hill Construction: As vice president for Industry Insights and Alliances, Bernstein has presented hundreds of speeches across the globe and written numerous papers on the topics of innovation and technology, energy efficiency and conservation, and sustainability in the built environment.
• John Briscoe, Harvard School of Engineering and Applied Sciences: A specialist in water and economic development policies, Briscoe holds joint appointments as professor in the Practice of Environmental Engineering and Environmental Health.
• Tom Couling, Zachry Construction Corporation: With more than 20 years of experience working for regulatory agencies, consulting engineers, and construction companies, Couling specializes in environmental compliance for multi-billion dollar infrastructure projects.
• Manny Diaz, Lydecker Diaz: During his two-term tenure as mayor of the City of Miami, Diaz was nationally recognized for his programs supporting urban design, sustainability, and green development.
• Scott Kirkpatrick, Coast Builders Coalition: Kirkpatrick, president of Louisiana’s Coast Builders Coalition, is an attorney for government relations matters and has served as natural resources, transportation and environment policy advisor to former Louisiana Governor Kathleen Blanco.
• Paula Loomis, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers: In her role as sustainability program manager, Loomis provides sustainability policy, technical assistance, and training for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers engineering and construction worldwide.
• Marie Martinko, Society of the Plastics Industry: As director for Industry Affairs – Environment & Health, Martinko leads the development and implementation of environmental, product regulatory, and occupational safety regulatory and technical programs.
• Brooke Weizmann, American Chemistry Council: Weizmann serves as director of Sustainability/Responsible Care for the American Chemistry Council, an industry group engaged in political advocacy, communication, and research for the business of chemistry.

Odebrecht’s multifaceted view of sustainability as a synergy of economic development, social development, environmental balance, political participation, and cultural diversity will play a part in the judges’ decision, as will real-world applicability of the entries. The winning students have the potential opportunity to develop and implement their innovative ideas with Odebrecht.

“Our all-star panel of judges is comprised of today’s best minds, with the real-world experience to evaluate tomorrow’s solutions to our sustainability problems,” said Gilberto Neves, president and CEO of Odebrecht USA. ”The judges have pioneered the way in their own industries, and they’ll now give emerging innovators an opportunity to carry the torch for the next generation.”

The award is open to any undergraduate or group of students enrolled at a U.S.-accredited university, with at least one student pursuing a degree in engineering, architecture, building and construction management, or chemistry. Entries may be submitted through May 31, 2012, at http://www.odebrechtaward.com. Meanwhile, participants are encouraged to engage on Facebook and Twitter.

Prizes* will be awarded as follows:

First Prize:
$20,000 to the student (s), $10,000 to the advising professor and $10,000 to their university

Second Prize:
$7,000 to the student (s), $4,000 to the advising professor and $4,000 to their university

Third Prize:
$5,000 to the student (s), $2,500 to the advising professor and $2,500 to their university
Additionally, participants of all shortlisted entries will be invited to participate in the process to become an Odebrecht Young Partner or a Braskem Associate. These are trainee and internship programs where young talents will experience firsthand what it is like to work for a global leader in the fields of engineering and construction and chemicals and petrochemicals.

About the Odebrecht Organization
Founded in 1944, Odebrecht is a Brazilian multinational that operates in the engineering and construction, petrochemical, energy, bioenergy, oil and gas, real estate, and environmental engineering sectors. Present in 20 countries, it has more than 120,000 employees and $32.3 billion in revenues in 2010.

About Odebrecht
Founded over six decades ago, Odebrecht has grown to be a global leader in engineering and construction services, laying the groundwork for positive, sustainable change on five continents. Today, the Odebrecht Organization is a worldwide leader in providing engineering & construction, petrochemical and bio-energy services. As part of the Odebrecht Organization, Odebrecht USA opened its Coral Gables, Florida, office in 1990, and since then it has successfully delivered projects throughout the United States. Odebrecht has a particular emphasis on public-sector infrastructure projects of vital importance.

About Braskem
Braskem is the largest manufacturer of thermoplastic resins in the Americas. With 31 industrial plants in Brazil and the United States, the company produces more than 33 billion pounds of thermoplastic resins and other petrochemical products annually. Headquartered in Philadelphia, Braskem America, a wholly owned subsidiary of Braskem S.A., has three production facilities located in Texas, Pennsylvania and West Virginia, as well as its Technology and Innovation Center in Pittsburgh.

*All cash prizes currently listed before taxation in accordance with state and federal law.

Media Contact:
Thais Reiss
Odebrecht
(305) 341-8861
treiss@odebrecht.com
http://www.odebrechtaward.com

Government, Politics

National Leader Volunteers For Ilario Pantano Campaign for Congress in Wilmington NC

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William Gheen of the national organization Americans for Legal Immigration PAC is traveling to Wilmington, North Carolina, this weekend to volunteer for the ALIPAC endorsed congressional campaign of Ilario Pantano.

Raleigh, NC, USA — William Gheen of the national organization Americans for Legal Immigration PAC is traveling to Wilmington, North Carolina, this weekend to volunteer for the ALIPAC endorsed congressional campaign of Ilario Pantano.

Ilario Pantano faces NC State Senator David Rouzer in the GOP primary to be settled on May 8. ALIPAC has endorsed Ilario Pantano for his strong stance in favor of immigration law enforcement instead of Amnesty.

In contrast, David Rouzer has lobbied Congress in the past in an effort to pass Amnesty legislation for illegal aliens that is opposed by a large majority of American and GOP voters.

“I’m looking forward to getting out from behind the computers and on the front lines of the fight against illegal immigration by getting in the trenches as a volunteer with the Pantano campaign this weekend,” said William Gheen, President of ALIPAC. “If enough voters understand that David Rouzer actively supports Amnesty for illegal immigrants, then Pantano will win this race.”

William Gheen has served as a campaign consultant in North Carolina prior to forming Americans for Legal Immigration PAC in 2004, which has quickly become the nation’s largest grass roots political action committee addressing the issue of illegal immigration. Gheen has also served as an Assistant Sgt At Arms to the NC Senate, a legislative aide, and a registered issue lobbyist, and is cited regularly in state, national, and global media.

William will be filming short video clips during his volunteer efforts on the Ilario Pantano campaign for a video blog that will be released nationally to encourage other American activists to volunteer for the over 100 federal campaigns currently endorsed by ALIPAC. (See list at http://www.ALIPAC.us)

“Volunteering for one of our ALIPAC endorsed campaigns is a great way to support the national fight against illegal immigration and illegal alien Amnesty supporters like David Rouzer,” said William Gheen. “ALIPAC was founded by campaign volunteers and this year we want to return to the founding motivations of our group by calling on Americans from Carolina to California to deploy behind campaigns that stand with Americans against illegal immigration.”

William Gheen will be conducting interviews with the media while in Wilmington Friday, April 27, through Sunday, April 29. To schedule interviews or for more information please visit http://www.alipac.us or call (866) 703-0864.

Media Contact:
William Gheen
President
Americans for Legal Immigration PAC (ALIPAC)
Post Office Box 30966, Raleigh, NC 27622-0966
FEC ID: C00405878
(919) 787-6009
press@alipac.us
http://www.alipac.us

Business

Dubai back on Real Estate Investors Wish-List, says AAA

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Just a few years after a price crash among properties in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), investors are starting to return to the country, according to AAA.

Boston, MA, USA, April 26, 2012 — Just a few years after a price crash among properties in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), investors are starting to return to the country, according to Alternative Asset Analysis (AAA).

The National Bank of Abu Dhabi is hoping to attract wealthy investors who may be looking for an alternative investment asset class to invest in. It wants to buy up UAE real estate with the funds raised through the commercial property fund. The fund is expected to effectively establish whether there is an appetite for these kinds of investments in the Middle East.

Although Dubai property values made a very high profile nose-dive a few years ago, investors are once again heading back to the UAE, with the hope of investing in a bargain and seeing values rise once more. The region is increasingly seen as a secure region surrounded in unrest and many Middle Eastern investors are thinking of moving their investments to Dubai as a result.

Real estate in general is growing in popularity among alternative investors, claims AAA, which advocates alternative investments of all kinds. AAA’s analysis partner, Anthony Johnson, said, “The equity markets are highly volatile at the moment, and investors risk losing money overnight if they fall suddenly.”

He added, “This is leading to an increased interest in real estate and other alternative asset classes, such as forestry, social impact investing and precious metals.”

AAA claims that many of these asset classes are less correlated with equity markets, meaning they are less likely to drop in value when the economy takes further slides. They are also good diversifiers against risk.

AAA supports environmentally responsible projects and investments into sustainable forestry plantations and renewable energy projects. Firms like Greenwood Management, which runs plantations in Brazil, offer foreigners the chance to invest in timberland with a modest initial investment.

About Alternative Asset Analysis:
The remit of Alternative Asset Analysis is to analyse and provide news on the global performance of a wide range of alternative asset classes including, but not restricted to, commodities, real estate, forestry, foreign exchange, hedge funds, private equity and venture capital.

Media Contact:
Anthony Johnson
Alternative Asset Analysis
71 Commercial St
Boston, MA 02109-1320
617-939-9596
info@alternativeassetanalysis.com
http://www.alternativeassetanalysis.com