All posts by straightlinepr

Academy of Scuba is Now Operation Blue Pride’s West Coast Training Facility for Disabled Veterans

See What New Partnerships Mean for Operation Blue Pride

Phoenix, AZ, March 23, 2014 – Academy of Scuba announced today it has been selected as the West Coast training site for Operation Blue Pride (OBP) scuba certification program for veterans. OBP is a nonprofit organization out of Chicago focusing on scuba dive training for veterans who are severely mentally and physically injured. Diving is part of their rehabilitation and helps them integrate back into society while providing them with a sense of adventure and accomplishment.

Once scuba certified, veterans will help with conservation projects through Operation Blue Pride. Currently OBP is working on a new partnership with Atlantic White Shark Conservancy. AWSC’s vision is to increase knowledge of Atlantic white sharks and change public perception to conserve the species and ensure biologically diverse marine ecosystems.

Operation Blue Pride and Atlantic White Shark Conservancy will be raising funds to send OBP veterans on white shark research and tagging trips with four veterans joining each trip. Academy of Scuba is slated to start training veterans in May 2014, and is looking to train over 50 people in the next 12 months.

Specially trained staff at Academy of Scuba will work with the specific needs of the veterans. Staff at Academy of Scuba have been trained by the following agencies: Handicapped Scuba Association (HSA), NAUI Adaptive program, and the SDI Scubability program.

Academy of Scuba has multiple locations in Phoenix Arizona, that is easily accessible from the West Coast and their facilities allow dive training year round. Operation Blue Pride is using Scuba Emporium, out of Chicago, for the East Coast training facility.

“The two new locations give OBP the opportunity to go above and beyond its original amount of veterans to certify. Both locations bring years of experience with a true passion to help veterans and do whatever they can do to help our returning veterans without exploiting them. I am really looking forward to this year’s new partnership,” said Chris Maddeford, from Operation Blue Pride.

“What’s great about this program is that they get scuba certified which is a great first step, but it’s only the beginning because the good they can do with the conservation programs through Operation Blue Pride will benefit them and the oceans,” said John Flanders, CO at Academy of Scuba.

“OBP is eager to get our veterans enveloped in this exciting partnership to continue our mission of having returning combat veterans help save our oceans’ marine life, while self healing,” said Madderford.

“I think it’s invigorating,” Flanders said. “When you have someone who has gone through a traumatic situation, and they get in the water, it’s great seeing the spark in their eyes. These veterans are amazing and they want to prove to themselves that they can overcome obstacles. The sense of pride they show sends shivers up your spine and can bring a grown man to cry.”

To watch an informative and motivational video of Operation Blue Pride click here. ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lBFnMY1aCEs )

About The Academy of Scuba™
Academy of Scuba Inc., with multiple locations in Arizona, is a PADI Five Star IDC Training Facility, a DAN Training Center/Business Member, a DEMA Member, and a member of the Better Business Bureau. The Academy of Scuba is an industry innovator for developing, implementing, and reinforcing advanced level Scuba diver training programs. The Academy of Scuba focuses on training with an emphasis to create “great divers”. The sole purpose of the Academy of Scuba is to not just put people in the water, but to keep people in the water. The Academy of Scuba assists divers in increasing enjoyment, adventure, and safety through better education and more frequent dive experiences. Visit Academy of Scuba at http://www.academyofscuba.com/

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

Doctored, Inc. Releases New Doctored App on the Apple App Store

An interactive app that keeps you vying for the highest desirability ranking, now available for iOS 4.3+

Bartlett, IL, March 22, 2014 – Available now, Doctored app allows players to compete with friends, and others from all over the world, for the highest desirability ranking based on the collective results of what is most desired in an ideal partner. Choose from hundreds of physical features, fashion and accessory options for your character and see how you rank. With billions of character combinations to set you apart and keep you enthused, Doctored is entertaining for all ages. The app is currently available for $0.99 on the Apple App Store and is for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch users with iOS 4.3 or later. The app is optimized for iPhone 5. With 16 languages available, the app is responsive to players from all over the world. A FREE version that will include advertisements is coming soon!

Playing Doctored is a cinch! Create an “Ideal Partner” and your selections will be combined with all other players to determine what is most desirable. Then, evolve your character and learn how desirable you are against all other players that match your character’s gender, based on the most desired physical traits, fashion and accessory choices. This game doesn’t judge, it simply lets you know what others want in an “Ideal Partner” and whether or not you’ve got it going on. You have the option to continuously improve your character to achieve the highest desirability ranking and modify your “Ideal Partner” as your tastes change. New products will be added every month. Build a friend pool and stay in touch with their character creations and rankings. Share your character and Ideal Partner on FaceBook™ as you compete for the 100% desirability ranking. Earn Doctored Dollars through trivia challenge or purchase Doctor ed Dollars directly to enhance your physical traits with virtual surgery, or the latest in fashion additions. The options are plenty and new products will be added monthly. Your desirability ranking is what it’s all about! https://itunes.apple.com/app/doctoredapp/id777499017?mt=8

Doctored, Inc. is kicking off with an in app promotion that will allow players (2) a chance to win an Apple iPad Mini Retina 16GB or a $25 iTunes gift card (6). See contest rules for details.

Please visit http://www.doctored-inc.com for more on Doctored. To schedule an interview, please contact: Christina Bouza, Director of Content, CJ Creative Solutions, at Telephone: (630)277-8207 or Email: doctored@cjcreativesolutions.com.

Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. Navigate our instructional video to learn more on how to play: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mnk6a-3GyB4

Contact:
Gene Coots
Doctored, Inc.
1180 Beechtree Lane
Bartlett, IL 60103
630-277-8207
doctored@cjcreativesolutions.com
http://www.doctored-inc.com

AuraPortal Helium is Born. A New Way to Improve Business Productivity

The new version of the most intelligent and effective business software, with a more attractive design, improved performance and new features.

Woburn, MA, March 19, 2014 – AURA (www.auraportal.com), a global provider of AuraPortal Business Process Management (BPM) software, has announced the upcoming release of the AuraPortal Helium Model for March 21.

AuraPortal has been distinguished with great advantage over its competitors by Ovum in its Decision Matrix report and by other renowned analyst firms.

Here are just some of the innovations included in AuraPortal Helium:

• A new Process Modeler: AuraPortal Helium Modeler, which incorporates new technology and many important advantages.

Without a doubt the best Modeler in the BPM market.

• More features
• Greater speed
• Better control
• Increased mobility
• More customization
• Improved usability
• More modeling options
• More process simulations
• Greater integration capacity

If Business Process Management encompasses all the actions performed in an organization, business productivity is greatly increased. With AuraPortal Helium, this goal is achieved.

Olivia Trilles, Vice President of AURA, comments, “AuraPortal has always been a step ahead of other BPM and workflow programs, and with AuraPortal Helium its vanguard position is reaffirmed.”

“These days it is evident that at least a minimum control is needed over corporate processes, but AuraPortal Helium has gone even further and offers features that are so powerful that managers can see the results in no time.”

AURA CONTACTS:
Cristina Siscar
info@auraportal.com
Skype: auraportal
Phone: +1 (857) 239-0070 or +34 96 295 4497
http://www.auraportal.com

About Aura (http://www.auraportal.com)
AURA is a global BPM (Business Process Management) software provider delivering a solution that creates, without the need of IT programming, Business Process Workflow Execution Models. AuraPortal is 100% Web-based, and is complementary to existing ERP and CRM systems.

AURA has a presence in 40 countries with more than 300 customers including, among others: Walmart, Toyota, General Motors, Pemex (Petroleos Mexicanos), Carrefour, ArcelorMittal, PepsiCo, Coca-Cola, Danone, INCAE, Kimberly-Clark, Yamaha, Royal KPN, Bristol-Myers Squibb, etc., as well as many Government Agencies and Departments in several countries. All of these customers benefit from maintenance contracts.

Its headquarters are in Europe (Spain and Holland) with an executive branch in North America (Florida). It also has offices in several countries and a vast network of partners who locally attend customers throughout the world.

WHAT THE TOP EXPERTS SAY ABOUT AURAPORTAL BPMS

OVUM:

In the “Product Quality” category, AuraPortal has obtained the highest score (9 points), situating itself clearly above the next best vendor on a scale of 1 to 10.

(Decision Matrix on BPM Vendors 2011, OVUM)

TEC:

“With a dominant placement in nearly all areas of the BPM module, AuraPortal BPMS is well positioned as one of the leaders within the BPM space according to all standards provided by TEC”.

(TEC Technology Evaluation Centers 2013)

GARTNER:

“AuraPortal is the example of next-generation BPMS”.
(MQ 2007-2009)

BPTRENDS:

“AuraPortal is one of the most complete and advanced BPMS solutions on the market backed up by a financially strong company with a large number of satisfied customers of all sizes that have been working with the product for several years”.
(BPMS Report 2010)

IDC:

“In Customer references, AuraPortal has a strong ease of implementation and ease of use from both IT and business user perspectives”.
(MarketScape 2011)

BLOOR:

“For what you get, AuraPortal is really good value for money with a very low maintenance percentage”.
(Bloor 2011)

Contact:
Nina Moon
AuraPortal
400 Trade Center
Woburn, MA 01801-7472
978-808-6340
info@auraportal.com
http://www.auraportal.com

The Colombian Ministry of the Interior Uses BPM to Ensure Transparency in the 2014 EL

With AuraPortal BPM technology, the Immediate Reception Unit for Electoral Transparency (URIEL) automates the management and tracking of complaints and allegations of irregularities in the Colombian 2014 electoral process.

Woburn, MA, March 19, 2013 – AURA (www.auraportal.com), a global provider of AuraPortal. Business Process Management (BPM) software, has announced that the AuraPortal BPM application has been officially purchased by the Colombian Ministry of the Interior to automate the URIEL Process, which manages possible irregularities linked to the electoral process.

AuraPortal has been distinguished with great advantage over its competitors by Ovum in its Decision Matrix report and by other renowned analyst firms.

In just two months, a team of specialized consultants from AuraPortal Partner companies BPM Latinoamerica and Management & Quality Ltda., designed, configured and implemented this process, which enables Colombian citizens to report irregularities observed in the Colombian 2014 elections.

Alvaro Canal, AuraPortal Business Developer for the Andean region and Panama, comments, “Manually handling an unpredictable volume of complaints and allegations in a country with more than 30 million voters, and responding in short periods of time as is required by law, can be a very costly task. With AuraPortal BPM it will be immediate, precise and controlled, with a notable reduction in paperwork and minimal staff.”

Here are just a few of the many benefits the Ministry has achieved from implementing AuraPortal BPM technology:

• Information management using Dynamic Forms.

• Unlimited Guest and Anonymous Users thanks to AuraPortal WIP technology.

• Web Service integration with external applications.

• Web Service integration with the current Document Management system.

• External Portals for external surveillance and control entities.

• Automatic creation of office documents for case referral.

• Notification to citizens by mail, messenger, web and printed notifications.

• Visual help in forms.

• Public Queries.

• SQL Reports.

• Execution of stored procedures.

• Management of Chain of Custody for physical evidence received.

• Monitoring of the citizens from the Ministry’s website.

ABOUT AURA (http://www.auraportal.com)
AURA is a global BPM (Business Process Management) software provider delivering a solution that creates, without the need of IT programming, Business Process Workflow Execution Models. AuraPortal is 100% Web-based, and is complementary to existing ERP and CRM systems.

AURA has a presence in 40 countries with more than 300 customers including, among others: Walmart, Toyota, General Motors, Pemex (Petroleos Mexicanos), Carrefour, ArcelorMittal, PepsiCo, Coca-Cola, Danone, INCAE, Kimberly-Clark, Yamaha,Royal KPN, Bristol-Myers Squibb, etc., as well as many Government Agencies and Departments in several countries. All of these customers benefit from maintenance contracts.

Its headquarters are in Europe (Spain and Holland) with an executive branch in North America (Florida). It also has offices in several countries and a vast network of partners who locally attend customers throughout the world.

AURA CONTACTS
Cristina Siscar
info@auraportal.com
Skype: auraportal
Phone: +1 (857) 239-0070 or +34 96 295 4497
http://www.auraportal.com

WHAT THE TOP EXPERTS SAY ABOUT AURAPORTAL BPMS

OVUM:
In the “Product Quality” category, AuraPortal has obtained the highest score (9 points), situating itself clearly above the next best vendor on a scale of 1 to 10.

(Decision Matrix on BPM Vendors 2011, OVUM)

TEC:
“With a dominant placement in nearly all areas of the BPM module, AuraPortal BPMS is well positioned as one of the leaders within the BPM space according to all standards provided by TEC”.

(TEC Technology Evaluation Centers 2013)

GARTNER:
“AuraPortal is the example of next-generation BPMS”.
(MQ 2007-2009)

BPTRENDS:
“AuraPortal is one of the most complete and advanced BPMS solutions on the market backed up by a financially strong company with a large number of satisfied customers of all sizes that have been working with the product for several years”.

(BPMS Report 2010)

IDC:
“In Customer references, AuraPortal has a strong ease of implementation and ease of use from both IT and business user perspectives”.

(MarketScape 2011)

BLOOR:
“For what you get, AuraPortal is really good value for money with a very low maintenance percentage”.

(Bloor 2011)

Contact:
Nina Moon
AuraPortal
400 Trade Center
Woburn, MA 01801-7472
978-808-6340
info@auraportal.com
http://www.auraportal.com

SAFE International Launches New Toronto Women’s Self Defense Page – Toronto, ON Self Defense

Toronto Self Defense, SAFE International Launches New Toronto Women’s Self Defense Page.

Toronto, ON, March 18, 2014 – (Straight Line PR) – Toronto Self Defense, SAFE International Launches New Toronto Women’s Self Defense Page.

SAFE International™ is the leading provider of mobile self defense/personal protection training in North America. SAFE International has taught more than 180,000 women in the private, corporate and high school environments since 1994. SAFE International is thrilled to announce its new women’s self defense page on their website. These are available in Toronto, ON.

SAFE International quickly realized that women had completely different concerns, fears, and needs than males. Chris Roberts, Managing Director of SAFE International listened to their concerns and tailored something that was not only educational, but also met their personal fears. Men have no idea what women go through on an everyday basis from the stares and comments to the physical gestures and advances.

One of the reasons that SAFE International enjoys teaching self defense for women, is how receptive women are to the skills that the SAFE International instructors provide. SAFE International teaches self defense concepts, rather than techniques. This allows women to learn in a much shorter time. SAFE International always covers Awareness and Avoidance strategies which are based on one’s daily routines. We examine what an attacker looks for, what an attacker wants and doesn’t want in confrontation. One of the biggest topics we explore is how most people are too polite, even when their intuition is telling them the complete opposite. We cover the most common distraction techniques an attacker will use to gain an advantage. We then move on to verbal strategies in the event that avoidance is no longer possible.  Rather than just teaching to yell at a potential attacker, we cover a few verbal strategies based on the aggressor and the scenario. The third step is addressing the physical aspect of Toronto women’s self defense. We begin with the advantages of adopting a passive stance rather than an aggressive stance.  We only teach gross motor strikes due to the adrenal rush one gets when they are in a highly stressful state such as an attack scenario. We teach a philosophy of “Attack the Attacker” which reverses one from being the Prey, to that of being the Predator. Another philosophy is to attack the head if all avoidance and verbal strategies have failed. This is only 30 minutes into the physical training and you can see how the self defense concepts are very effective. The self defense drills increase with intensity as the participants gain more confidence. This is very important as you don’t want to terrify your clients

Forget Tupperware Parties!

Invite 6 to 8 of your friends for a few hours of fun, education and potentially life- saving instruction. Plan a meal, bbq, snacks, maybe some dessert! Be prepared for a unique Women’s Self Defense Toronto experience! What has made SAFE International so popular is their unique method of teaching with humour and sharing of anecdotes. Get to experience their simulated attacks in scenario specific situations such as at the front door, the kitchen, the car, etc.

SAFE International has taught more than 180,000 women. To contact SAFE International and Chris Roberts to schedule your Women’s Self Defense party, you can visit their main site at www.safeinternational.biz

You can also reach Chris Roberts toll free at 1-800-465-5972 or by email at chrisroberts@safeinternational.biz

Contact:
Chris Roberts
SAFE International™
15535 Cooper Rd.
Lunenburg, ON
Canada K0C 1R0
1 800 465-5972
chrisroberts@safeinternational.biz
http://www.safeinternational.biz

SAFE International Announces Launch of “SAFE International Self Defense Courses”

SAFE International Self Defense would like to announce the launch of their new website page, “SAFE International Self Defense Courses”.

Toronto, ON, March 17, 2014 – (Straight Line PR)- SAFE International Self Defense would like to announce the launch of their new website page, “SAFE International Self Defense Courses“. SAFE International is a leader in mobile personal protection/self defense instruction. They have taught more than 180,000 women since 1994. SAFE International specializes in women’s self defense parties, high school self defense, corporate self defense, as well as private self defense. What makes SAFE International so effective is that they don’t just teach the physical side of self defense but also the psychological and emotional sides.

What will you find on the self defense course page? SAFE International offers women’s self defense, high school self defense, corporate self defense, self defense for men, and self defense for seniors. Have you ever wondered about how to handle specific self defense scenarios such as being attacked on an elevator, or how to approach your car safely? Those are just a couple of the many topics SAFE International covers with all their self defense courses that they offer, in addition to the physical self defense concepts taught.

More than 180,000 people have participated in the SAFE International self defense lessons in a few countries. SAFE International has set a lofty goal to teach 500,000 people with their self defense classes, and they are well on their way.

SAFE International is gaining world-wide recognition for their self defense philosophies and the SAFE International Self Defense Courses are a great way to make everyone safer.Their main site can be found at www.safeinternational.biz

Contact:
Chris Roberts
SAFE International™
15535 Cooper Rd.
Lunenburg, ON
Canada K0C 1R0
1 800 465-5972
chrisroberts@safeinternational.biz
http://www.safeinternational.biz

Belle’s Big Adventure Airstream Road Trip

In celebration of Belle Chevre’s 25th year of making highly applauded cheeses, an all-American, cross-country road trip entitled Belle’s Big Adventure is launching March 21st with a kick-off party in Elkmont, Alabama

Elkmont, AL, March 18, 2014 — In celebration of Belle Chevre’s 25th year of making highly applauded cheeses, an all-American, cross-country road trip entitled Belle’s Big Adventure is launching March 21st with a kick-off party in Elkmont, Alabama. Belle Chevre will embark on the nationwide tour in an Airstream from their new creamery location in Elkmont, Alabama on March 21st, and with a christening at their newest retail location in downtown Huntsville, Alabama. The tour will marked by stops along the way at Whole Foods Markets sampling their award-winning cheeses and Chevre cheesecakes.

Belle Chevre is driving cross-country, in partnership with Airstream, manufacturer of the iconic “silver bullet” travel trailer, to spread the goat cheese gospel about their creative and capricious goat cheese products. Cheese lovers will be able to learn more about our products, how they are made, where, and why, and, most importantly, get to sample them. Belle Chevre intends to spread the word that goat cheeses are an extremely healthy choice, and are one of the world’s most versatile cheeses, going easily in recipes from breakfast to dessert.

Belle Chevre has been recognized as a cult brand with dedicated customers nationally. We couldn’t think of a more fun and engaging way to get out and make new friends and see loyal fans than by sampling our delicious products,” says Tasia Malakasis. “And we couldn’t envision a better travel partner than Airstream as their quality and history is admired by so many but especially us at Belle Chevre,” Tasia continues.

The cross-country trip can be followed via an interactive map on Belle Chevre’s web site at http://www.bellechevre.com/belles-big-adventure/

The company will be chronicling the trip with video, social media and musings from the traveling mascot, Valentine The Goat.

About: Belle Chevre has been recognized and applauded by everyone from the American Cheese Society (for excellence in craftsmanship) and the Good Food Awards (for excellence in sustainability) to the Today Show and Oprah Magazine. With 25 years of cheesemaking experience under their belt, this passionate group of artisans has nearly 100 national awards and is a favorite of the nation’s most savvy cheesemongers. Their unique selection of handmade cheeses go far beyond the classic log to include sweet breakfast chevres, cheeses marinated in olive oil and herbs, a chevre cheesecake, and DIY cheese kits.

About Airstream
Airstream, manufacturer of the iconic “silver bullet” travel trailer, is the longest-tenured recreational vehicle manufacturer in North America. Following founder Wally Byam’s credo, “Let’s not make changes, let’s only make improvements,” Airstream has remained a timeless classic. Byam’s vision for Airstream trailers was to use these design- and quality-driven products to allow people to dream, travel and explore the open road. A subsidiary of Thor Industries, Airstream is based in Jackson Center, Ohio, where a team of craftsmen remains dedicated to preserving the brand’s legendary reputation for quality and innovation. For more information, please visit www.airstream.com, call 877-596-6111 or contact Airstream, Inc., 419 West Pike Street, P.O. Box 629, Jackson Center, Ohio 45334.

More news about Airstream, our dealers and current travel trailer and touring coach models can be found at www.Airstream.com. For the latest news on Airstream, “like” us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @Airstream_Inc. . You can also stay connected with adventure-loving techies and learn about inspiring on-the-road experiences through Airstream’s Live Riveted Mobile App.

Contact:
Kata Gregg
Belle Chevre
18845 Upper Ft Hampton Road
Elkmont, Al 35620
888-549-1665
bbuhr@JMPRPublicRelations.com
http://www.bellechevre.com/belles-big-adventure/

Mrs. Ann Campbell & Gen. John Campbell, Holly Petraeus to Receive Easter Seals Advocacy Awards

Easter Seals Serving DC | MD | VA has announced that Mrs. Ann Campbell and Gen. John Campbell, 34th Vice Chief of Staff, U.S. Army, and Hollister “Holly” Petraeus, Assistant Director with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and Head of its Office of Servicemember Affairs, will receive Advocacy Awards at its Advocacy Awards dinner on May 6, 2014 at the Marriott Wardman Park, Washington, DC.

Silver Spring, MD, March 18, 2014 – Easter Seals Serving DC | MD | VA has announced that Mrs. Ann Campbell and Gen. John Campbell, 34th Vice Chief of Staff, U.S. Army, and Hollister “Holly” Petraeus, Assistant Director with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and Head of its Office of Servicemember Affairs, will receive Advocacy Awards at its Advocacy Awards dinner on May 6, 2014 at the Marriott Wardman Park, Washington, DC.

Phil Panzarella, President and Chief Executive Officer of CPS Professional Services, serves as the Chair of the 2014 Advocacy Awards. Deborah Mullen, advocate for military families and wife of Admiral Mike Mullen (Ret.), 17th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, serves as Honorary Chair.

Since 2004, the Advocacy Awards event has recognized leaders who have demonstrated an exemplary commitment to advancing opportunities for children and adults with disabilities or special needs. The 10th annual Advocacy Awards will highlight Easter Seals’ services to the military family, including Child Development Programs for “Little Warriors,” Military Family Respite, Caregiver Training, Adult Day Services, Veteran Staffing Network and Homeless Veterans Reintegration Programs.

“It is an honor to devote this 10th anniversary of the Advocacy Awards to recognize service members and their families who have answered our nation’s call, and to recognize those who join with us as we in turn empower our veterans, warriors and their families to thrive in their communities beyond their call of duty,” says Lisa Reeves, President & CEO of Easter Seals Serving DC I MD I VA.

Ann and General Campbell are accepting an Advocacy Award on behalf of active and veteran military service members and their families. As the Vice Chief of Staff of the Army, General Campbell is a four star General and the second-highest ranking officer in the Department of the Army. In this capacity he is responsible for the management of the U.S. Army’s capabilities, requirements, budget, policy, plans, programs, and installations, as well as management of the Army Staff. General Campbell has more than 34 years of service and has commanded at every echelon from platoon to division, with combat tours in Haiti, Iraq, and Afghanistan. In 2010 General Campbell led more than 30,000 Soldiers in combat operations across fourteen provinces within Regional Command East while serving in Afghanistan as the Commanding General of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) “Screaming Eagles.”

Some of Ann Campbell’s most dedicated efforts have been toward guiding volunteer-led Army Family Readiness Groups (FRG) from Company to Division level. A tireless advocate for our soldiers, their families, veterans and wounded warriors, she recently joined the board for Centerstone Military Services, which provides online counseling and support groups to soldiers and their families through the program “Courage Beyond.”

Through her work with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and the Council of Better Business Bureaus, Ms. Petraeus has led efforts to ensure that military families receive strong financial education and to see that federal and state agencies coordinate their activities to improve consumer protection measures for military families. A military spouse for 37 years, Ms. Petraeus has had extensive experience as a volunteer leader in military family programs and has worked with local, state and national legislators on issues affecting Army families.

Easter Seals Serving DC | MD | VA provides services to ensure all people with disabilities and other special needs, including wounded warriors, veterans, and their families, have equal opportunities to lead full and productive lives. To make a donation or table reservation, visit www.advocacyawards.org or email Shiree Skinner at sskinner@eseal.org.

Contact:
Steven Infanti
SMI Communications
1420 Spring Street I
Silver Spring, MD 20910
800-886-3771
SMICommunications@Earthlink.net
http://www.advocacyawards.org/

Drew and INTO University Partnerships Form Joint Venture to Enrich International Learning Experience

INTO New York at Drew University will build on university’s legacy of internationalization

Madison, NJ, March 17, 2014 – Drew University and INTO University Partnerships today announced a joint venture to support and enhance international education on campus and greatly expand learning opportunities for international and domestic students. The partnership, formed under the name INTO New York at Drew University, will support Drew’s strategic internationalization goals in several ways:

Grow and diversify the international student population on campus;
Establish international educational programs and support services that will expand all students’ social, global and professional engagement; and
Further build the university’s global reach and reputation.

INTO partners with leading universities in the United States, United Kingdom and Asia to advance each institution’s comprehensive internationalization efforts and expand their global reach and impact. The joint venture with Drew reflects INTO’s commitment to improve global access to quality higher education and to provide students with an increasing breadth of study options.

The partnership comes at a time when record numbers of international students are studying in the United States with more than 800,000 students enrolled in academic year 2012-2013, according to the Institute of International Education. Through INTO’s extensive global recruitment network across 75 countries, the partnership plans to seize this opportunity and grow Drew University’s international student population at an optimal rate. The first cohort of students at INTO New York at Drew University will enroll in academic year 2014-2015.

The INTO New York at Drew University model is unique in that it leverages Drew’s distinctive qualities as a supportive liberal arts institution, offering a small-school environment with a big-world experience less than an hour from midtown Manhattan. Drew’s promise, “We Deliver Full-Impact Learning to the World,” melds a challenging academic curriculum, a global learning culture and extensive New York City experiential opportunities, all of which enable a student’s greatest success.

“The INTO partnership is an exciting venture for the Drew community and helps us build on our longstanding international programs at home and abroad, including launching the first United Nations Semester in the country in 1962,” said Drew President Vivian A. Bull. “Inviting more international undergraduates to join the Drew community offers the rest of the student body the opportunity to learn with, and from, their global peers, giving them an advantage in a highly connected world.”

INTO New York at Drew University will offer international students a unique program in which they complete the first two years of undergraduate academic and English language coursework at Drew. Upon successful completion, students will then be eligible to complete the remaining two years of a degree program at Drew or they may choose to finish their degree at a number of well-known institutions in the New York metropolitan area.

An INTO partnership transforms a campus through broad engagement of the entire university community by creating opportunities for faculty and staff, enhancing the educational experience for domestic students and improving outcomes for international students. Drew University will retain control of all academic aspects of the partnership and its brand.

“Comprehensive internationalization cannot be a ‘one size fits all’ effort. One of the great advantages of the U.S. higher education system is that it is a rich tapestry of models and structures,” said John Sykes, Group Managing Director, INTO University Partnerships. “Smaller, private, well-established liberal arts institutions like Drew have much to offer international students, but may not have the resources to reach them. We are excited to introduce this unique study option to prospective international students while investing in Drew’s efforts to foster global perspectives through comprehensive internationalization.”

Drew University joins other successful INTO partnerships in North America, including Oregon State University, University of South Florida, Colorado State University, Marshall University and George Mason University. Since 2006, INTO has successfully launched partnerships with 19 universities around the world.

For more information about Drew University, please visit www.drew.edu or follow the university @DrewUniversity. More information on INTO University Partnerships can be found at http://www.into-corporate.com or follow INTO @INTOnetwork.

About Drew University
Drew University is a private, liberal arts university located in Madison, N.J., just 29 miles west of New York City. Ranked among the top liberal arts institutions nationwide by U.S. News & World Report, Forbes and Washington Monthly, Drew is also listed in Princeton Review’s Best 378 Colleges. The Drew promise—We Deliver Full-Impact Learning to the World—emphasizes the university’s commitment to borderless education that enables a student’s greatest success in a globally connected world. Drew has a total student enrollment of more than 2,000 in three schools: The College of Liberal Arts, the Caspersen School of Graduate Studies and the Drew Theological School. The undergraduate program offers degrees in 30 different disciplines, while Caspersen and the Theological School offer degrees at the masters of arts and doctorate levels.

About INTO University Partnerships
Universities partner with INTO to advance their ambitious comprehensive internationalization agendas. INTO’s deeply embedded joint ventures create a globally diverse and integrated campus, improve the overall student experience, and increase international students’ access to higher education. Through INTO’s resources and expertise, institutions expand their ability to create highly supportive academic environments, establish state-of-the-art learning and living spaces and deliver university-designed programs. Since 2006, INTO has established partnerships with 19 universities in the UK, the US and China. These partnerships have helped more than 7,500 international students from over 100 countries begin their academic studies at partner institutions in North America, including Oregon State University, the University of South Florida, Colorado State University, Marshall University and George Mason University.

Contact:
Anne Jenkins
CSG PR
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
703-624-6125
ajenkins@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com

Bryant & Stratton College Announces Career Week Events for Local Job Seekers

Series of events March 24-27 include one-on-one career sessions and a career fair with paid, volunteer and training opportunities

Orchard Park, NY, March 17, 2014 – Bryant & Stratton College today announced it will host Career Week March 24 through March 27 open to all job seekers in Western New York, whether they are first-time job seekers or anyone looking for ways to improve their job search strategy. The week’s events include a career fair with over 40 local companies and organizations expected to participate, and the College is offering free, one-on-one appointments for job seekers with Career Services experts who can give job search advice and help with resumes and interview skills.

Job seekers can connect with local employers about open positions, volunteer opportunities and training options available at the career fair on Thursday, March 27 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Bryant & Stratton’s campus in Orchard Park. Anyone needing help with their job search can book a free, one-hour appointment with a Career Services representative Monday, March 24 through Wednesday, March 26 at any of the three campuses in Amherst, Buffalo or Orchard Park. At the sessions, local residents can take advantage of:

* Customized feedback on their resume or assistance with resume creation  

* Expert advice on drafting cover letters

* Instructions and strategies on how to effectively search for jobs using keywords and popular job posting websites

* Mock interview practice

* Opportunities to have their resume shared with the College’s network of local employers

“Being successful in today’s tough job market means understanding the latest job search trends and resources out there – like how to write your resume so it gets noticed and where to look for opportunities online,” said Jeff Tredo, Director of New York State Campuses of Bryant & Stratton College. “We help students every day navigate the complex job search, application and interview process so they can be successful in their careers. Career Week is an opportunity for us to extend our resources, expertise and employer network to the Western New York community. Those who attend will feel more prepared for their job search and make valuable connections with local employers.”

CAREER WEEK EVENTS
What: Bryant & Stratton College Career Sessions
When: March 24-26
Time: By appointment, please call to set up an appointment
Amherst Campus: 716-625-6300
Buffalo Campus: 716-884-9120
Southtowns Campus in Orchard Park: 716-677-9500
Where: Bryant & Stratton College Western New York Campuses
Amherst Campus, 3650 Millersport Highway, Getzville 14068
Buffalo Campus, 465 Main Street, 4th Floor, Buffalo 14203
Southtowns Campus, 200 Redtail Road, Orchard Park 14127
Cost: Complimentary

What: Bryant & Stratton College Career Fair
When: March 27
Time: 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Bryant & Stratton College Southtowns Campus, 200 Redtail Road, Orchard Park 14127
Cost: Complimentary
Contact: 716-677-9500

The Bryant & Stratton College Career Sessions are open to all residents in Western New York. Those interested in setting an appointment with the Career Services team can call the campus of their choice.

For more information about Bryant & Stratton College and its degree programs and campuses, visit www.bryantstratton.edu.

About Bryant & Stratton College:
Bryant & Stratton College is a private career college delivering outcomes-based education and training through a flexible, contemporary curriculum in a personalized environment. The College is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, which is an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education, and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Bryant & Stratton College has campus locations in New York, Ohio, Virginia and Wisconsin, as well as an Online Education division, and a Professional Skill Center. For 160 years, Bryant & Stratton College has been providing real world education leading to bachelor’s degrees, associate’s degrees and professional certificates in the fields of healthcare, technology, legal, business, & graphic design.  For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program and other important information, please visit http://www.bryantstratton.edu/disclosures. General information can also be found on the College’s website at www.bryantstratton.edu.

Contact:
Anne Jenkins
Communications Strategy Group
3225 East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
703-624-6125
ajenkins@csg-pr.com
http://www.csg-pr.com