Zerco Systems Calls President BushÂ’s Ohio Visit Timely & Says Zerco Has Proven Solution to Help Meet National Goal To Provide Americans With Electronic Health Records; ZercoÂ’s Health-eCard Offers Solution To National Need

Zerco Systems Calls President BushÂ’s Ohio Visit Timely & Says Zerco Has Proven Solution to Help Meet National Goal To Provide Americans With Electronic Health Records; ZercoÂ’s Health-eCard Offers Solution To National Need

Zerco Systems has proven technology can help meet the call of President George Bush for Americans to have electronic health records within the next 10 years. John Soltesz, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the developer and integrator of optical memory card technology and complete biometric verification-based identification systems and data storage solutions, said, “Zerco’s optical card technology has been applied to health care and meets the President’s criteria to bring health care up to other industries in information technology utilization. The vast storage capacity of the Zerco Health-eCard meets the needs of providing a personalized single source medical record for all Americans.”

Brookfield, OH (PRWEB) May 25, 2004

Zerco Systems International, Inc., a developer and integrator of optical memory card technology and complete biometric verification-based identification systems and data storage solutions, announced that its proven technology can help meet the call of President George Bush for Americans to have electronic health records within the next 10 years.

John Soltesz, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said, “Zerco’s optical card technology has been applied to health care and meets the President’s criteria to bring health care up to other industries in information technology utilization. The vast storage capacity of the Zerco Health-eCard meets the needs of providing a personalized single source medical record for all Americans.”

He said, “The Zerco Health-e Card can deliver the support President Bush called for to bring the best possible health care to all Americans.” The Zerco Health-eCard is discussed on the company’s website at http://www. zerco. com/index-1.html (http://www. zerco. com/index-1.html) by clicking on the Health-e Card icon.

Soltesz added that of the $1.4 trillion health care costs in America, as much as 10% is due to insurance fraud and abuse, and as much as 25% from redundant tests and procedures. The highly secure Zerco Health-e Card will help detect fraud and eliminate duplicate tests and procedures.

The Zerco Health-e Card contains patient demographics, insurance information, medical histories from multiple providers and all related information. Critical information is instantly available and the Zerco Health-e Card helps reduce costs and improve health care.

President Bush previously called for development of electronic health records for voluntary use by people to ensure that complete health care information is available for most Americans at the time and place of care, no matter where it originates. The records will be designed to share information privately and securely among health care providers when authorized by the patient.

The White House had said the paper-based medical record system in place is antiquated, noting, “A patient’s vital medical information is scattered across medical records kept by many different caregivers in many different locations – and all of the patient’s medical information is often unavailable at the time of care.” It further stated, “Physicians do not always have the best information to select the best treatments for their patients, resulting in an unacceptable lag time before new scientific advances are used in patient care.”

President Bush had called for a 10-year timeline to establish electronic health records to ensure that complete health care information is available for most Americans at the time and place of care, no matter where it originates, and that participation by patients will be voluntary. The electronic health records will be designed to share information privately and securely among and between health care providers when authorized by the patient.

Zerco said health initiatives information is posted on the White House website at: http://www. whitehouse. gov/infocus/technology/economic_policy200404/text/chap3.html (http://www. whitehouse. gov/infocus/technology/economic_policy200404/text/chap3.html).

In addition to its health care application, ZercoÂ’s technology has use in national security. For example, Zerco is a subcontractor with Information Spectrum Inc. (ISI), a company of Anteon International Corporation (NYSE: ANT), in connection with the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) initiative to identify persons entering the U. S. along southern borders.

Zerco has teaming agreements with the Computer Sciences Corporation (NYSE: CSC) on matters that relate to Department of Homeland Security initiatives pertaining to airport, seaport and border security.

Zerco Systems International, Inc., headquartered in Brookfield, Ohio, is a developer and integrator of optical memory card technology and biometric-based identification and data storage solutions. Information about Zerco is available at its website: www. zerco. com. The core component of the CompanyÂ’s technology is itÂ’s patented, fully integrated, secure, multi-technology, multi-functionality, small footprint and scalable, point-of-contact terminal. ZercoÂ’s technologies are used for digital governance applications such as immigration, border crossing visa, cargo manifests, multi-biometric identification cards and other digital read/write card applications. The terminal, which operates in a stand-alone environment, is built around optical memory card technology and also reads magnetic stripe and chip-based (SmartCard) technology.

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Advisors Volunteer To Enhance Community Financial Security As Part Of The American College's National Financial Awareness Day

Advisors Volunteer To Enhance Community Financial Security As Part Of The American College's National Financial Awareness Day

On March 6, 2006, graduates of The American College will open their practices for one day and offer members of their local communities the opportunity to learn more about issues affecting their personal finances. American College alumni participating in National Financial Awareness Day will spend the day answering questions, sponsoring informational seminars and discussing the key elements of a sound financial plan. This event is being offered as a free public service and is designed to help individuals understand the importance of planning today to create a lifetime of financial security.

Bryn Mawr, PA (PRWEB) December 22, 2005

With over 150,000 financial practitioners in its Alumni Association, The American College, the nation’s leading financial services educator, announced today that it is launching a national initiative designed to enhance consumers’ financial security.

On March 6, 2006, graduates of The American College will open their practices for one day and offer members of their local communities the opportunity to learn more about issues affecting their personal finances. American College alumni participating in National Financial Awareness Day will spend the day answering questions, sponsoring informational seminars and discussing the key elements of a sound financial plan. This event is being offered as a free public service and is designed to help individuals understand the importance of planning today to create a lifetime of financial security. 

“Consumers need help reaching their financial goals,” said Larry Barton, PhD., President and Chief Executive Officer of The American College. “The average person isn’t saving enough for retirement and does not have the expertise to prepare for the escalating costs of medical care and long-term care.”

“Simultaneously, the integrity of the public safety net for Americans is eroding -- fast,” continued Barton. "The Pension Benefit Guarantee Corporation is facing significant funding issues. Earlier this year, the trustees responsible for Social Security reported that the trust fund will go broke in 2041, a year earlier than previously estimated. Trustees also said that Medicare, the giant health-care program for the elderly and disabled, faces insolvency in 2020.”

“If consumers are to successfully address the numerous challenges confronting them, they need to begin preparing now, and they need educated professional assistance,” said Barton. “That’s why we are asking our alumni to take time out of their practices for this initiative. We hope Americans from all over the country will take advantage of this opportunity and with the help of a reputable, credentialed professional financial advisor, take the necessary steps required to avoid getting caught in a potentially significant financial downpour.”

The Event: The American College’s National Financial Awareness Day

All American College alumni are invited to participate in this exciting inaugural event. Please contact Russ Figueira in Alumni Relations at 610-526-1200 or e-mail him to sign up. Additional information is also available at www. theamericancollege. onlinecommunity. com

As graduates of the nation’s oldest, largest and most prestigious distance learning institution devoted to financial services, The American College’s alumni are uniquely qualified to assist consumers as financial advisors, financial planners and wealth managers.

Consumers interested in meeting with an American College alumnus should visit www. theamericancollege. onlinecommunity. com to find a participating financial advisor in their area. Using the contact information available at the website, consumers can then arrange for appointments and obtain additional details about the services being provided on a local level.

The online database will be updated as more American College alumni sign up to participate in this event during the coming months. Consumers are encouraged to check the website regularly for the most current listing of participating advisors.

March 6 was chosen as the date for this annual event because it is the birthday of The American College’s founder Dr. Solomon S. Huebner. Dr. Huebner was a renowned financial educator whose theories about the human life value concept revolutionized the financial services industry. Building on the foundation created by Dr. Huebner, The American College today provides education to over 35,000 professionals annually working in insurance, securities, banking and accounting.

The American College is the nation’s leading non-profit educator of professionals in the insurance and financial services industry. The College is accredited by the Commission on Higher Education of the Middle States Association of College’s and Schools -- the same organization that accredits Princeton and the Wharton School of Business. The American College offers an array of specialized designation programs, Master of Science degrees in several disciplines and customized continuing education programs for those pursuing a career in financial services. For more information, visit www. TheAmericanCollege. edu.

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Get the Hint: It's Hip to Drink Water With an Essence

Get the Hint: It's Hip to Drink Water With an Essence

HINT Introduces Three Tantalizing Additions at the NASFT Fancy Food Show: Pure Waters with the Essence of Pear, Peppermint & Tropical Punch

San Francisco, CA (PRWEB) February 2, 2006

Hip meets healthy in the latest celebrity trend: HINT essence waters – pure water lightly infused with all natural flavors. Zero Calories. Zero Sweeteners. A clean, refreshing taste in an exquisite bottle.

From “The OC,” to “CSI,” the Golden Globes pre-show events to the gift bags of Oscar Nominees, the upscale bottles of HINT are sweeping the nation, making it pleasurable and fashionable to drink water, not sugar.

This weekend, pear, peppermint and tropical punch join anchor flavors cucumber, lime and apple. With HINT’s incredibly refreshing, great tasting water and eye-catching packaging, it’s easy to drink enough water without even thinking about it.

“Doctors and dieticians agree that water is the best thing we can drink, but how much plain water can you drink before craving more zing?” asks HINT’S CEO Kara Goldin. “I created HINT simply because I love water with a slice of lime or cucumber and wanted a convenient way to have that experience on the go.” At last, it’s water made sexy, fun, and exciting.

Former AOL exec Goldin launched HINT in April 2005, just one month before the birth of her fourth child. HINT is available in fine grocers such as Whole Foods (West Coast), Gourmet Garage, Woodlands Market, Real Foods and Glen Ellen Market, and is now distributed through Nature’s Best and Kehe Food Distributors to ensure that Americans from Hollywood to Philly can enjoy the delicious flavors of HINT. Visit www. drinkHINT. com to read more.

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Medical Careers College Announces Practical Nursing for Richmond Campuses

Medical Careers College Announces Practical Nursing for Richmond Campuses

Medical Careers College is pleased to announce that both Richmond campuses, West End, located at Commerce Plaza I - 2809 Emerywood Parkway, Suite 400 - Richmond, VA 23294 and South Side, located at 800 Moorefield Park Drive - Richmond, VA 23236, are now offering a Practical Nursing diploma program.

RICHMOND, Va. (PRWEB) April 10, 2007

 The Practical Nursing program prepares the student to become a valuable member of a healthcare team, working under the supervision of a physician or a registered nurse.

Graduates who obtain state licensure typically secure employment as Practical Nurses in areas that include:

-- Nursing Homes

-- Hospitals

-- Physicians' Offices

-- Corporate Occupational Health

-- Public School Systems

Other fields of study offered at Medical Careers College's two campuses include Medical Assisting and Medical Administration; Massage Therapy is also offered at the South Side campus.

About Medical Careers College

Medical Careers College is accredited by the Council on Occupational Education, 41 Perimeter Center East, NE, Suite 640, Atlanta, Georgia 30346, telephone number (770) 396-3898.

The schools' Admissions Offices are open Monday through Thursday 9 am to 8 pm, Friday 9 am to 5 pm and Saturday 9 am to 1 pm. The school's Financial Aid Offices are open Monday through Thursday 8 am to 8 pm, Friday 8 am to 5 pm and Saturday 9 am to 1 pm. Classes are conveniently offered in both day and evening sessions. Graduate employment services are also available on a local, regional, and national level. New class terms commence at regular intervals throughout the calendar year.

For more information about Medical Careers College, visit www. careers. edu.

Bodhi Body Now Offers Low Cost, Comprehensive, Outsourced Wellness Program for Phoenix Businesses Called True Health

Bodhi Body Now Offers Low Cost, Comprehensive, Outsourced Wellness Program for Phoenix Businesses Called True Health

Plan includes concierge physician, access to four core programs and on-site corporate services.

Chandler, AZ (PRWEB) October 24, 2010

Bodhi Body Integrative Medical Centers in Chandler now offers a truly unique option for local businesses to incorporate a wellness program within their organization called True Health. For a nominal monthly fee per person, Bodhi Body will provide monthly and quarterly onsite health services such as physician consultations, B12 shots and an informative health lecture series. Additionally, all members of the plan are entitled to unlimited, concierge physician access at the Bodhi Body facility, access to the four core health programs and significant discounts on all therapies and services provided by Bodhi Body such as acupuncture, nutritional IV, massage and colon hydrotherapy.

The four core health programs at Bodhi Body are as follows:
 Whole-body nutrition and weight loss  Bio Identical hormone replacement  Comprehensive detoxification and depuration  Stress reduction therapies

The True Health Plan costs about $40 per member, per month, depending on number of enrollees. Studies have shown that companies who invest in their employees access to health care information and preventative programs gives the company a 3:1 return on investment. Lab testing is not included in the plan but most basic lab testing will be covered by insurance.

Studies have repeatedly demonstrated that comprehensive corporate wellness programs can lower health care and insurance costs, reduce rates of absenteeism, and improve performance and productivity. Other benefits demonstrated in studies include improved ability to attract and retain key personnel, greater worker allegiance, and improved public image of the business. But for small to medium sized businesses, the cost to design and implement an in-house wellness program can appear cost-prohibitive and labor intensive. Phoenix businesses that want to incorporate a comprehensive wellness program within their organization now have a local outsourced option.

Bodhi Body is one of the only integrative medical centers in the Valley to offer this type of program. Bodhi Body believes everyone can be empowered to maintain their health and wellness with treatment programs that make use of all appropriate, science-based therapies, both conventional and alternative. Natural, less-invasive approaches to health are given priority. The staff at Bodhi Body understands that by taking proactive measures today, most chronic disease can be prevented. Preventing chronic disease will ultimately save local businesses thousands of dollars in insurance claims, insurance premiums and loss of productivity.

About Bodhi Body

Bodhi Body Integrative Medical Centers in Chandler, Arizona offers a new approach to healthcare. In an inspirational and supportive environment, they incorporate all appropriate science-based, integrated medical services, the highest quality natural health products along with aesthetics to bring true health, inside and out. Their patient-centered care is aimed at early detection, prevention, treatment and reversal of chronic disease and age-related decline. The physicians design individualized treatment plans to restore physiological, psychological, and structural balance. They look at whole-body nutrition, helping to achieve natural weight by reducing inflammation, healing the gut and supplementing nutrient intake with nutritional IV therapy, supplementation and medical food. They consider the importance of hormone balance for optimal health and the prevention of disease and offer bio-identical hormone replacement therapy for both men and women. They recognize the value in comprehensive detoxification and depuration of the body. They support all their patients with stress reduction therapies and techniques as well as unique guided physical activity recommendations. For additional information, please visit http://www. bodhi-body. com and http://www. truehealthplan. info

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New Business-To-Business Magazine for the Wild Seafood Industry

New Business-To-Business Magazine for the Wild Seafood Industry

The only business-to-business magazine of its sort, Wild Catch covers the entire wild seafood supply chain – “From Net to Market” – and serves to act as a business, marketing and educational tool for its primary target audience of retail and food service individuals providing wild seafood products, and everyone else involved in wild-capture fisheries.

Seattle, Wash. (PRWEB) November 16, 2005

Demand for wild seafood is on the rise. Fueled by an ever-aging baby-boomer population that is concerned about healthy lifestyle choices, it is expected that this trend – and wild seafood consumption – will only continue to grow. But while the demand for wild seafood is increasing, there is a void in the amount of accurate and valid information that is made available. And it doesn’t help that of the abundance of information that is out there, much of it may be self-serving, incomplete or even just plain wrong. So it’s easy to understand why today’s wild seafood consumers may have concerns about mercury levels, potential overfishing of a particular species, and even wild seafood preparation methods.

That’s where the new seafood magazine, Wild Catch, comes in. The only business-to-business magazine of its sort, Wild Catch covers the entire wild seafood supply chain – “From Net to Market” – and serves to act as a business, marketing and educational tool for its primary target audience of retail and food service individuals providing wild seafood products, and everyone else involved in wild-capture fisheries.

“A magazine like Wild Catch has been a long time coming,” says Peter Hurme, publisher of Wild Catch. “Ever since we acquired Pacific Fishing magazine, the leading commercial fishing publication in the Pacific Rim, we began developing and refining a concept aimed at the buyer of wild-capture seafood. We then found the right people to make it happen. Our timing was pretty good, too, with marketplace tastes for seafood – and all food – evolving,” he continues. “We are proud to be the only magazine in the world publishing a true wild harvest seafood business magazine, and we think the only way is up for this venture.”

“It can easily be said that wild seafood is the least understood of all protein sources,” says Doug Sipes, Wild Catch editor. “And in a lot of cases, the individuals working behind the retail seafood counters and in the seafood restaurants serve as the primary source of information for consumers. So we want to make sure to provide them with the information they need to help people become more comfortable when it comes to buying and preparing wild seafood.”

Every issue of Wild Catch will contain important and useful information on the entire wild seafood supply chain, including species and industry education; marketing insights; wild seafood business analysis; stats, trends and forecasts; chef and retailer profiles; distribution logistics; value-adding strategies; and, wild seafood processing and technology. Backed by some of the industry’s biggest players, founding partners of Wild Catch include Ocean Beauty, AquaStar and Alaska Airlines; while leading industry professionals from the Chef’s Collaborative, Seafood Choices Alliance, Marine Stewardship Council, Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute, Southeastern Fisheries Association, Louisiana Seafood Promotion and Marketing Board, among others, serve on the editorial advisory board.

For more information, and to view the Inaugural Issue, visit http://www. wildcatchmagazine. com (http://www. wildcatchmagazine. com).

Wild Catch is part of the Northwest Publishing Center group of companies, which includes four divisions that produce other business publications, successful industry conferences, contract media projects and commercial printing: NWPC Publishing, NWPC Conferences, NWPC Custom and NWPC Printing. The company’s main offices are based out of a 50,000 square-foot commercial printing, distribution and digital communications facility in Seattle, Washington.

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Florida Firm Helps Companies and Individuals Save Big on Healthcare Costs

Florida Firm Helps Companies and Individuals Save Big on Healthcare Costs

A Tampa, Florida firm finds success helping individuals and companies navigate the nation's healthcare system. In just over 60-days, the Company's clients have saved over one million dollars in healthcare cost and the business has been recognized for it's high standards of business practice.

Tampa, FL (PRWEB) November 10, 2010

The AskMyAdvocate. com Executive Team announced today that, since the recent launch of their new website, they have surpassed their goals for attracting clients and helping reduce healthcare cost via the Company's healthcare advocacy services.

"We've saved our members and clients over a million dollars in healthcare cost in the 60-plus days since we launched our new site," says Anna Inglett, President, AskMyAdvocate. com, "Much of the savings came from auditing bills for errors and negotiating bill reductions with providers for medical care that had already been completed," she continued.

In August, the firm, headquartered in Tampa, Florida, launched new consumer branding and a subscriber-based website offering a wide variety of healthcare advocacy services. Available to individuals or as a low-cost addition to employee benefits programs for small and medium-sized companies, AskMyAdvocate offers the following: Medical Billing Audits, Insurance Denial Appeals, Prescription Drug Pricing Comparison, Diagnosis Research, Health Plan Evaluation, Provider Referrals, Provider Fee Negotiation, Case and Care Management, Nursing Home Research and Assisted Living Coordination.

"We're also pleased that AskMyAdvocate has been recognized by the Better Business Bureau as an Accredited Business with an A-rating," says Ms. Inglett, "Those that utilize our services can be confident that we conform to the high standards and business practices that are required for BBB accreditation." 

AskMyAdvocate is a pioneer in healthcare advocacy for individuals and small and medium-sized businesses. The services offered capitalize on the growing need for an expert and neutral third-party to mediate the patient - care provider - insurer relationship and help people navigate their healthcare challenges through proactive planning of health benefit and care resource usage to maximize effectiveness, reduce interruption and minimize cost. The Company's Employee Advocacy Service (EAS) Program offers a cost-effective employee benefit that helps reduce overall company health benefit expense.

AskMyAdvocate is a member of the Medical Billing Advocates of America. For more information about AskMyAdvocate, it's programs and its services, you can visit the Company's website at http://www. AskMyAdvocate. com or contact their company headquarters at (813) 418-7000.

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Natural Menopause Cures Gaining Momentum: Menoquil Leads the Pack

Natural Menopause Cures Gaining Momentum: Menoquil Leads the Pack

In light of numerous FDA (US Food and Drug Administration) and Breast Cancer Society warnings about the inherent risks that are associated with using the popular prescribed menopause drugs, more women are flocking to safer, more effective, natural cures for menopause like Menoquil. Unlike their prescription counterparts--which increase the risks of breast, ovarian and uterine cancers--natural cures for menopause are gaining solid momentum because they are all-natural, side effect-free, and because they treat the associated symptoms safely, and without requiring a visit or a prescription from a physician.

Manalapan, NJ (PRWEB) March 23, 2009

More pre-menopausal and menopausal women are seeking natural cures for menopause. From big-name celebrities that are tired of taking dangerous, side effect-laden, hormone therapy drugs, to middle-aged women who have read the numerous FDA (US Food and Drug Administration) and Breast Cancer Society warnings about the increased risks of breast, ovarian and uterine cancers that are directly linked with the usages of the popular prescribed hormone drugs that are widely prescribed to treat the symptoms of menopause. Additionally, women who suffer from liver disease, heart disease and uterine disease are unable to take such hormone therapy drugs due to known interactions and side effects.

Where can these millions of worried women turn to treat their symptoms of menopause without having to worry about adverse side effects, dangerous drug interactions or increased risks of diseases? Natural cures for menopause are truly gaining momentum because they offer a side effect-free, all-natural approach to treating the symptoms of a nature-intended, hormonal shift in the female body. All-herbal and all-natural cures for menopause, like Menoquil--which currently leads the pack as the number one natural cure for menopause--are rapidly gaining in popularity as more woman seek botanical alternatives for treatment of the variety of symptoms that are presented to them with the onset of menopause.

According to Juliana Bertrand, spokesperson for Pharmaxa Labs, the makers of Menoquil natural cure for menopause, the climbing popularity of natural menopausal supplements and cures is no mystery.

"There are more than thirty associated symptoms of menopause that women are faced with during its onset," says Bertrand. "And, even the most touted of prescription hormone drugs have only been able to treat but a few of these symptoms."

"More women are turning to the clinically proven power of natural cures for menopause, like Menoquil, because they don't need a prescription to take it, they can order it from the privacy of their own home and it treats all of the known symptoms of menopause, without causing any adverse side effects or drug interactions," Bertrand explains.

The Menoquil all-natural cure for menopause is taken as an herbal supplement in capsule form, by mouth twice per day. It works to relieve the symptoms of menopause using combinations of high-potency phytoestrogen botanicals, black cohosh, soy isoflavones, and other natural ingredients, which have been clinically proven in relieving menopausal symptoms, as well as supporting a natural hormonal balance.

For more information about the number one all-natural cure for menopause, Menoquil, please visit them online at: www. menoquil. com

About Menoquil:
Developed by Pharmaxa Labs--a leading nutraceutical company An alternative product that was formulated using combinations of high-potency phytoestrogen botanicals, black cohosh, soy isoflavones, and other natural ingredients, which have been clinically proven in relieving menopausal symptoms, as well as supporting a natural hormonal balance Contains a blend of all-natural herbal extracts that help menopausal women deal with the symptoms of menopause without causing any known side effects through the duration of their transition Clinical Studies have shown that active, proprietary ingredients contained within Menoquil actually work as well as low-dose estrogen in eliminating hot flashes, mood swings, irritability, insomnia and anxiety Most comprehensive hormonal balancing compound ever developed for pre-menopausal and menopausal women Available over-the-counter, no doctor prescription is required 100% safe, effective and all-natural; no known side effects Currently available at their secured online store, with a generous discount off the retail price when ordered online at: http://www. Menoquil. com (http://www. Menoquil. com)

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INPUT Says Economic Stimulus to Provide Billions to Government Contractors

INPUT Says Economic Stimulus to Provide Billions to Government Contractors

President-elect Obama's economic stimulus package will provide billions of dollars in contract opportunities to government contractors, according to INPUT.

Reston, VA (Vocus) January 8, 2009

President-elect Obama's economic stimulus package will provide billions of dollars in contract opportunities to government contractors, according to INPUT (http://www. input. com/). The package, which is likely to approach $1 trillion in spending over the next two years, is expected to contain over $350 billion in spending for projects related to infrastructure improvement, electronic health records, green initiatives and modernization of schools.

"The success of the economic stimulus package depends on the government's ability to spend this money quickly," says Kevin Plexico, senior vice president at INPUT. "Contractors have demonstrated a particular adeptness at creating jobs quickly with government funding."

While much of the funding in the stimulus package will cover health care costs and pay for tax cuts, INPUT identified several ways the stimulus package may drive funding to contractors, including:
Funds for GSA, the military and other agencies operating government buildings to implement green technologies Substantial increases in funding for the Army Corps of Engineers to accelerate infrastructure projects Grants to states for road and bridge construction Grants to state and local governments for modernization of schools including expanded investment in computers and Internet connectivity in schools Funding to health providers to accelerate the adoption of electronic medical records

"It's too early to tell the mix of investments that will be included in the stimulus package, but it is clear there will be an abundance of opportunities for contractors to participate at the federal, state and local levels," said Mr. Plexico.

For more information on INPUT's analysis of the economic crisis and government actions related to it, read the blog post on this topic at INPUT's B2G Exchange blog: http://www. input. com/blogs/public/index. cfm/2008/12/22/Economic-Stimulus-Will-Drive-Billions-to-Government-Contractors? cmp=OCT-mrobamaeconomicpkg010409 (http://www. input. com/blogs/public/index. cfm/2008/12/22/Economic-Stimulus-Will-Drive-Billions-to-Government-Contractors? cmp=OCT-mrobamaeconomicpkg010409).

EDITOR'S NOTE: To speak with an INPUT representative regarding this release, please contact Helena Brito at hbrito (at) input (dot) com or 703-707-4161.

About INPUT
INPUT is the authority on government business. Established in 1974, INPUT helps companies develop federal, state, and local government business and helps public sector organizations achieve their objectives. Over 1,500 member organizations, including small specialized companies, new entrants to the public sector, and the largest government contractors and agencies, rely on INPUT for the latest and most comprehensive procurement and market information, consulting, powerful sales management tools, and educational & networking events. For more information about INPUT, visit www. input. com or call 703-707-3500.

Proper use of name is INPUT

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Every Day is Earth Day for Companies that Discover Environmental Sustainability is Free

Every Day is Earth Day for Companies that Discover Environmental Sustainability is Free

NC environmental consulting firm celebrates 25 years of helping companies operate in a manner that is both environmentally sustainable and safe for its employees.

Cary, NC (PRWEB) April 20, 2006

Environmental Resource Center announced today that it is celebrating its 25th anniversary in conjunction with Earth Day, April 22, 2006.

“I strongly believe that every company can operate in a manner that is both environmentally sustainable and safe for its employees,” said Brian Karnofsky, president of Environmental Resource Center. “I started this company with that principle in mind, and for 25 years, I have enjoyed helping companies realize their ability to accomplish this.”

In 1981, Karnofsky founded the company with the goal of providing superior environmental consulting and training services to industry, as well as to academia and government agencies. Environmental Resource Center began as a one-person consulting firm, and today the company is a $3 million business employing 20 people and serving organizations like Schering-Plough, John Deere, Exxon-Mobil, Goodrich, and Oxychem.

The company is best known for the hazardous waste and hazardous materials training seminars that it presents at over 300 locations each year. Recently, many of these sessions were made available online. The company also conducts environmental and safety audits throughout the U. S.

“Environmental compliance is free.” Karnofsky continued, “Wastes that go up the stack, down the drain, or are carried away in drums are valuable resources. The cost to eliminate the generation of hazardous waste, air emissions and water effluents more than pays for itself in the long run.” Communities are fighting amongst themselves to lure “green companies,” and employee applicants are virtually knocking down their doors to work for them.

Environmental Resource Center is a full-service environmental, health, and safety consulting firm that has been serving the needs of private industry and government agencies since 1981. The Cary, NC consulting firm has satellites in Texas, Georgia, and New England. More information about Environmental Resource Center is available at www. ercweb. com.

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Mega-Church Pastors, Lyle and Deborah Dukes, Selected as National Spokespersons for the American Heart Association's Combat Against Stroke in the Black Community

Mega-Church Pastors, Lyle and Deborah Dukes, Selected as National Spokespersons for the American Heart Association's Combat Against Stroke in the Black Community

Burden of stroke is greater among African-Americans than any other group

Dallas, TX (PRWEB) November 26, 2007

Lyle Dukes, Senior Pastor and Deborah Dukes, Co-Pastor of Harvest Life Changers Church, International in Woodbridge, Virginia have been selected as national spokespersons and ambassadors for the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association Power To End Stroke campaign. Power To End Stroke is an education and awareness initiative to increase the consciousness of stroke in the African-American community. Through Power To End Stroke, African-Americans are provided information and tools to help them reduce their risk of stroke.

According to the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, the burden of stroke is greater among African-Americans than any other ethnic group in America. Blacks have almost twice the risk of first-ever stroke compared to whites, and blacks 34-54 years old have four times the relative risk for stroke. More than 100,000 African-Americans have a stroke each year and many don't know that they are at risk. The American Stroke Association states that stroke is the #3 killer in the United States and a leading cause of disability; someone suffers a stroke every 45 seconds.

Pastors Lyle and Deborah Dukes, who lead a Washington, D. C. metropolitan area ministry of over 5,000 members, were selected in an effort to bring greater awareness through their international ministry and to unite with the American Stroke Association's objective to reach individuals through the church and other community roots.

Pastor Lyle Dukes stated, "We feel honored to be a part of educating our communities concerning this deadly condition." "It is our desire to do what we can to improve the quality of life, especially among African-Americans," added Co-Pastor Deborah Dukes.

As Power To End Stroke national ambassadors, the Dukes join other distinguished community leaders such as Mary Ida Vandross, mother of the late Grammy-winning R & B singer Luther Vandross; Mark McEwen, stroke survivor and former national weatherman and anchor for the Early Show; renowned R&B singer/songwriter Will Downing and others representing areas of healthcare, community, celebrity, media and fundraising in the fight against stroke. The ambassadors "Share the Power" by recruiting other respected leaders and by getting deeply involved in local grassroots and educational efforts to help reduce the risk of stroke in the African-American community across the country.

"African-Americans take on many battles that are often societal challenges," said Yolanda King, daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Coretta Scott King and the first national Power To End Stroke Ambassador. Before her death in May 2007, King preached, "Stroke is a health battle that we must take seriously and confront together, because the ramifications can be overwhelming and deadly for you and your loved ones. Through Power To End Stroke, we are creating a movement to help each other live stronger, healthier lives. As a people, we must join together to embrace this campaign."

"African-Americans are at a particularly higher risk for stroke because of their increased risk for hypertension, high cholesterol and diabetes. Through the Power To End Stroke campaign, we are teaching people how to reduce these and other stroke risks. We are also teaching our population how to recognize five simple signs of stroke and to understand that getting to the hospital immediately can potentially reduce the pain and suffering from stroke," said Emil Matarese, M. D., clinical neurologist, St. Mary's Medical Center, Langhorne, PA and Power To End Stroke spokesperson.

In addition to the awareness of stroke, ambassadors encourage individuals to call the American Stroke Association at 1-888-4-STROKE or visit www. strokeassociation. org/power (http://www. strokeassociation. org/power) to:
Take the stroke pledge to begin the journey to reduce stroke risk Receive free information about African-Americans and stroke Find out how to reduce stroke in the community through the Power To End Stroke campaign.

The Power To End Stroke campaign is supported nationally by the Bristol-Myers Squibb/Sanofi Pharmaceuticals Partnership.

About the American Stroke Association
The goal of the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, is to reduce disability and death from stroke through research, education and advocacy. In its 2004-05 fiscal year the association spent more than $151 million to support stroke research, education and public advocacy.

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Rcopia-MU from DrFirst Offers Cost-Effective, Speedy Way to Meet Meaningful Use

Rcopia-MU from DrFirst Offers Cost-Effective, Speedy Way to Meet Meaningful Use

DrFirst, Inc. today introduced its newest product, Rcopia-MU (Meaningful Use), a modular electronic health records (EHR) system which recently achieved official ONC-ATCB certification. Rcopia-MU is an upgraded version of DrFirst’s award-winning electronic prescribing (e-prescribing) product Rcopia combined with a national patient registry to allow qualified providers to meet Stage 1 and 2 meaningful use requirements in 2011 and 2012.

Rockville, MD (PRWEB) November 30, 2010

DrFirst, Inc. today introduced its newest product, Rcopia-MU (Meaningful Use), a modular electronic health records (EHR) system which recently achieved official ONC-ATCB certification. Rcopia-MU is an upgraded version of DrFirst’s award-winning electronic prescribing (e-prescribing) product Rcopia combined with a national patient registry to allow qualified providers to meet Stage 1 and 2 meaningful use requirements in 2011 and 2012. Rcopia-MU enables eligible physicians to affordably meet meaningful use requirements under the HITECH Act (Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act) with a non-intrusive and easy-to-implement solution which will provide the tools needed to receive their federal incentives in early 2011.

By adopting DrFirst’s certified health information technology (HIT), providers can quickly qualify for EHR incentive dollars at the end of 90 days if they are correctly utilizing the system as early as January 1, 2011. Rcopia-MU’s user-friendly technology enables practices to continue operating with minimal disruption to office workflow while continuing to use its paper medical records. In addition, when providers make the small investment in Rcopia-MU (a fraction of the overall EHR stimulus funds which can total to up to $18,000 in 2011), their practices can put the money towards implementing a complete EHR/EMR solution in the future and at their own pace.

“Rcopia-MU is a breakthrough meaningful use product for physician practices of all sizes,” said G. Cameron Deemer, DrFirst President and CEO. “Our certified product enables physician offices that may not be ready to go 100% paperless to begin qualifying for HITECH Act stimulus funds right away at the start of 2011. These providers can worry less about rushing into a decision solely for the purpose of qualifying for the HITECH bonus, and, instead, invest more time in researching a suitable EHR for their practice for the long term. This product ties closely with our goal of putting the needs of doctors first, and offering a stepping-stone approach to one of our rapidly growing list of EHR partners.”

The HITECH stimulus legislation defines program eligible providers as those who see Medicare and/or Medicaid patients and meet additional program requirements. Eligible providers may participate in either the Medicare incentive program or the Medicaid incentive program, but not both. These physicians must attest to meeting meaningful use regulations via a meaningful use secure Web site. Eligible providers who do not successfully demonstrate meaningful use by 2015 will have their Medicare reimbursement fees reduced between three and five percent.

“By implementing and meaningfully using Rcopia-MU, eligible providers and their patients will also enjoy other benefits besides receiving incentive payments such as overall reduction in clinical errors, online availability of records and data, alerts, clinical decision support, and e-prescribing/refill automation,” said Thomas E. Sullivan, Chief Strategic Officer of DrFirst, and former President of the Massachusetts Medical Society.

Beginning in 2011, the HITECH Act will offer financial incentives of up to $63,750 to eligible providers who demonstrate meaningful use as defined by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS). Electronic medical records stimulus incentives will be offered until 2015, after which time penalties may be levied for failing to demonstrate such use. The electronic medical records stimulus package funds associated with the Medicaid program vary from state to state.

The HITECH Act was created to stimulate the adoption of EHR and supporting technology in the United States. President Obama signed the electronic medical records stimulus package (EMR stimulus package) on February 17, 2009. The EMR stimulus package legislation is part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA), an overall economic stimulus bill.

View a HITECH Act summary.

About DrFirst
DrFirst has been a Surescripts Gold Solution Provider for three consecutive years with its award-winning, Rcopia electronic prescription management system. DrFirst is also one of only two vendors to receive CCHIT-eRx certification for 2011 and 2012. Founded in 2000, DrFirst creates innovative services targeted to physicians in both ambulatory and acute care environments. DrFirst solutions are widely integrated with over 130 practice management and electronic health records systems through its "Open Borders" program, and the company counts among its client base not only physician practices, but also major health plans, health systems, hospitals and EHR vendors. DrFirst partners with Surescripts for pharmacy connectivity, health plan information, and patient medication history. For more information, visit http://www. drfirst. com. For more DrFirst news, visit us at http://blog. drfirst. com/ or follow us on twitter at http://www. twitter. com/drfirst.

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Soy Coffee Announces No Carb Coffee Substitutes

Soy Coffee Announces No Carb Coffee Substitutes

(PRWEB) November 24, 2003

(New York) Soy Coffee LLC, makers of Soyfee, announced today that all of its coffee substitutes contain no carborhydrates. According to Marina Kushner, President and author of "Life Without Caffeine" said many consumers were interested in knowing if it was low carb. "Its not low-carb, its NO-CARB!" says Mrs. Kushner.

Popular diets like Atkins forbids grain beverages which make up 98% of the coffee substitute market. "Coffee, though approved, contains caffeine and can lead to increased risk of high blood pressure, insomnia, anxiety and headaches just to name a few" says Kushner

Coffee and decaffeinated coffees and teas contain significant amounts of Tannic Acid. Recent studies reveal that tannic acid is the #1 cause of stained teeth. Upset stomach and heartburn are directly caused by tannic acid. Tannic acid reduces the body's ability to absorb iron by 87%. Insufficient amounts of iron in the blood contribute to a variety of ailments, and can pose a dangerous risk over time.

Soyfee soy coffee is made from certified organic soybeans. It's high in protein, has no Tannic Acid, and contains less than 5 calories per serving. Its available at most health food retailers and online at www. soycoffee. com

Scorpion Offshore Ltd. Selects IMPACT ERMTM to Help Achieve Excellence in Health, Safety, & Environment Performance

Scorpion Offshore Ltd. Selects IMPACT ERMTM to Help Achieve Excellence in Health, Safety, & Environment Performance

Syntex Management Systems, Inc., a provider of Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) software solutions, announced today that Scorpion Offshore Ltd. ("Scorpion") selected IMPACT ERMTM software as their company-wide Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) management system. The application applies enterprise-level web-based technology to integrate a central risk mitigation action item program with both reactive and proactive business processes for risk discovery - establishing a platform for continuous improvement of Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) activities. The application will enable the management team to keep programs simple, focus on the key processes and monitor for assurance and improvement.

Houston, Texas (PRWEB) April 17, 2007

Syntex Management Systems, Inc., a provider of Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) software solutions, announced today that Scorpion Offshore Ltd. ("Scorpion") selected IMPACT ERMTM software as their company-wide Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) management system.

IMPACT ERMTM suite will provide Scorpion the framework necessary to achieve HSE performance excellence. The application will enable the management team to keep programs simple, focus on the key processes and monitor for assurance and improvement.

"We are confident that the technology provided via the IMPACT ERMTM solution will augment our SAP ERP system and enable Scorpion to implement a unique methodology for investigating incidents and implementing corrective actions proposed by the Petroleum Section of the National Safety Council," said Travis Fitts, Vice President of Human Resources, Health, Safety and Environment for Scorpion. "Several companies have attempted to implement the process with varying degrees of success and we are encouraged that our partnership with Syntex will allow us to effectively put this process in place."

Scorpion currently uses an internally developed risk management process called "STING". The process begins with identifying the steps to complete a task, and then goes on to identify the necessary tools, pinpoint hazards, name control measures for eliminating risk and then get agreement that risk has been effectively reduced. IMPACT ERMTM will compliment the "STING" process with the use of the Risk Assessment Matrix, allowing Scorpion to focus efforts on planning and implementing processes that incorporate risk management and safety observations.

"We look forward to forming a long-lasting business relationship with Scorpion," said Trent Derr, President and Chief Executive Officer for Syntex. "IMPACT ERMTM will be the key enabler for their risk management methodology and processes."

Syntex continues to raise the bar in facilitating collaboration through its software, IMPACT ERM™ suite, allowing employees and contractors, from front office to field operations to easily and efficiently report incidents and manage action items. The application applies enterprise-level web-based technology to integrate a central risk mitigation action item program with both reactive and proactive business processes for risk discovery - establishing a platform for continuous improvement of Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) activities. The IMPACT ERMTM suite implementation, which has been widely successful with many customers, such as MI SWACO, ExxonMobil and Shell, will provide Scorpion with a proven world-class risk management tool.

About Scorpion Offshore Ltd.
Scorpion was established in April, 2005 to construct and operate modern, cost effective offshore drilling rigs in key oil and gas markets worldwide. The Company is currently constructing five ultra-premium LeTourneau Super 116 jackup rigs at the KEPPEL AmFELS, Inc. shipyard in Brownsville, Texas. Delivery of the rigs begins in May 2007, and continues through October 2007, March 2008, June 2008 and November 2008 respectively. Scorpion is led by an experienced management team dedicated to customer service and emphasizing safety and operational excellence. With its fleet of ultra-premium jackup offshore drilling rigs, Scorpion will seek contracts globally with customers who demand a higher level of service and performance. For more information, please visit www. scorpionoffshore. com.

About Syntex Management Systems, Inc.
Syntex Management Systems, Inc. designs, develops, and delivers commercial software solutions for Operational and Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) in multiple industries. Syntex enables organizations around the world to reduce their exposure to loss while implementing continuous process improvement to create an annually renewable impact on their bottom line. Through continuously improving the execution of enterprise-wide management systems, our customers improve their performance across operational, quality, compliance, auditing, reputation, environmental, health, safety and security management functions. As a result, Syntex has unequaled expertise in making our customers successful and protecting their reputations by turning continuous improvement strategies into repeatable practices and policies using the power of our enterprise class software solutions. To learn more about Syntex and our products and services, please visit our Web site at www. syntexsolutions. com.

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Brain Fitness and Game Development Organization Raises $3 Million to Further Research

Brain Fitness and Game Development Organization Raises $3 Million to Further Research

Brain researchers' quest to improve brain fitness advanced by Pequot Ventures and Norwest Venture Partners investment.

San Francisco, CA (PRWEB) June 3, 2008

Lumos Labs, developer of Lumosity. com, the leading web-based provider of scientifically-tested brain games (http://www. lumosity. com/), today announced that it has raised $3 million of equity financing from Pequot Ventures, Norwest Venture Partners (NVP), and existing investors including Michael Dearing.

The investor group brings expertise that will catalyze the ongoing development of Lumosity. com and support Lumos Labs' mission to improve lives by enhancing brain fitness (http://www. lumosity. com/info/science/brain_fitness).

"Lumos Labs is at the center of a booming interest in cognitive exercise (http://www. lumosity. com/info/science/research) and the emerging science about the remarkable plasticity of the brain," said Amish Jani of Pequot Ventures. "Lumosity. com has seen tremendous demand from users and partners alike by leveraging the power of the web to deliver a unique platform for brain fitness."

Lumosity. com's programs consist of game-like exercises designed to train and improve cognitive functions (http://www. lumosity. com/info/science/results). The programs target different parts of the brain, and are experimentally tested with the help of collaborators at top academic institutions. Users pay a monthly subscription to use the program and track their progress with detailed performance reports and feedback.

"In our analysis, Lumosity. com stood out from its competitors because of its best-in-class combination of engaging games and scientific rigor," said Tim Chang of Norwest Venture Partners. "This unique combination has led to a strong market demand for Lumosity. com's offerings and has created a leader in the emerging market for brain fitness."

"We're excited to take basic neuroscience and psychology findings out of the lab and deliver them to consumers in a way that is actually improving their lives," said Michael Scanlon, Chief Scientific Officer of Lumos Labs. "This investment will enable us to significantly expand the diversity of games we offer, while further advancing the field through creative innovations and research with our academic collaborators."

About Lumos Labs

Founded in 2005, Lumos Labs, Inc. creates innovative neuroscience-based tools that empower people to lead better lives through improved brain health and performance. Lumos Labs is a pioneer in developing scientifically designed and experimentally tested online brain fitness programs (http://www. lumosity. com/info/science/brain_fitness). The company works in collaboration with leading scientists in neuroscience and cognitive psychology from Stanford, UCSF, and other leading research institutions to bring beneficial and innovative products to market. Lumosity. com is the online brain performance program researched and developed by Lumos Labs, and is scientifically demonstrated to improve cognitive function in adults through a series of engaging exercises and brain games. For more information, please visit www. lumosity. com.

About Pequot Ventures

Pequot Ventures is the direct venture investment arm of Pequot Capital Management, Inc. Pequot Ventures is focused on today's most dynamic startup and growth-stage companies in the technology industry. For more than a decade, Pequot Ventures has partnered with talented entrepreneurs and experienced managers to build market-leading enterprises. With nearly $2 billion in capital commitments, Pequot brings energy, insight and substantial sector expertise to create competitive, sustainable businesses and long-term value. Pequot Capital Management and Pequot Ventures recently announced that they have decided to separate their businesses, effective July 1, 2008. As part of the separation, the investment principals of Pequot Ventures will form a new firm, FirstMark Capital. FirstMark will assume the investment management operations of Pequot Ventures and, with investor approval, will take on the full responsibility for the assets currently under the management of Pequot Ventures. FirstMark Capital will continue to invest in high-growth businesses which are leading the technology revolution. Select investments include: Netgear, Inc. (NASDAQ: NTGR); First Advantage Corp. (NASDAQ: FADV); StubHub, Inc (Acquired by eBay, Inc.); Netegrity, Inc. (Acquired by CA Inc); Flarion, Inc. (Acquired by Qualcomm, Inc.); OutlookSoft Inc. (Acquired by SAP AG); Analex Corp. (Acquired by QinetiQ); Vallent (Acquired by IBM) and Syndesis (Acquired by Subex). For more information, please visit www. pequotventures. com. 

About Norwest Venture Partners (NVP)

Norwest Venture Partners (NVP) is a global venture capital firm that has actively partnered with entrepreneurs to build great businesses for more than 45 years. NVP focuses on investments in information technology including: Internet, media and consumer, software, services, enterprise and communications systems and semiconductor/components. The firm currently manages more than $2.5 billion in venture capital out of its office in Palo Alto, California. NVP has funded over 400 companies in the U. S. since inception. Some of the firm's recent investments and transactions include Adventity, Airespace (acquired by Cisco Systems), deCarta, DoubleFusion, Jigsaw, KACE, mBlox, Omneon, Open-Silicon (acquired by Unicorn Investment Bank), Persistent Systems, Rackspace, SideStep (acquired by Kayak), Spinnaker Networks (acquired by Network Appliance), Winphoria Networks (acquired by Motorola) Yatra, and Yipes (acquired by Reliance/Flag Telecom). NVP has also funded such market leaders as Actel Corporation, Cerent (acquired by Cisco Systems), Documentum, Extreme Networks, Forte Software (acquired by Sun Microsystems), PeopleSoft and Tivoli Systems (acquired by IBM). For more information, please visit www. nvp. com.

PRESS CONTACT:
Belinda Banks
SS|PR
609-750-9110
Belinda @ sspr. com

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Cancer and Medical Marijuana – The FDA Loses More Credibility

Cancer and Medical Marijuana – The FDA Loses More Credibility

The May edition of Cancer Monthly’s e-newsletter “CancerWire” focuses on the recent statement issued by the FDA that marijuana has no currently accepted or proven medical use in the United States.

Raleigh, NC (PRWEB) May 18, 2006

The FDA is getting the reputation of letting drug company representatives make decisions for the country, approving dangerous drugs, and not performing follow-up on approved drugs. Now, add to this list the fact that the FDA throws science out the window and makes decisions that have no basis in reality. This bureaucracy recently stated that “smoked marijuana has no currently accepted or proven medical use in the United States...” This statement was made apparently without any research and demonstrates that the needs of cancer patients play little if any role in the decisions of this disgraceful organization.

In 1999, the government’s own prestigious Institute of Medicine looked at this issue and published a report titled: “Marijuana and Medicine: Assessing the Science Base.” Their conclusions included, “The accumulated data indicate a potential therapeutic value for cannabinoid drugs, particularly for symptoms such as pain relief, control of nausea and vomiting, and appetite stimulation. The therapeutic effects of cannabinoids are best established for THC, which is generally one of the two most abundant of the cannabinoids in marijuana…The combination of cannabinoid drug effects (anxiety reduction, appetite stimulation, nausea reduction, and pain relief) suggests that cannabinoids would be moderately well suited for particular conditions, such as chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting and AIDS wasting.”

In fact, there are literally hundreds of articles that appear in the peer reviewed medical and scientific literature that discuss marijuana’s effects in pain relief, control of nausea and vomiting, and appetite stimulation.

Beyond ameliorating the side-effects of chemotherapy, research also suggests that marijuana may play a role in killing cancer cells. Recent journal articles have discussed how the chemicals in marijuana suppress or inhibit the growth of a variety of cancer cells invitro including breast cancers cells, brain cancer (glioblastoma cells), and leukemia cells…

To read the rest of this edition, go to: http://www. cancermonthly. com/cancerwire. asp (http://www. cancermonthly. com/cancerwire. asp)

More information:

 To see the survival rates and side effects of hundreds of cancer treatments, visit Cancer Monthly: http://www. cancermonthly. com/Search. asp (http://www. cancermonthly. com/Search. asp)
 To read CancerWire: http://www. cancermonthly. com/cancerwire. asp (http://www. cancermonthly. com/cancerwire. asp)  To subscribe to CancerWire: http://www. cancermonthly. com/newsletter. asp (http://www. cancermonthly. com/newsletter. asp)  For more information about tests that can help a patient determine which chemotherapy can actually work: http://www. cancermonthly. com/chemotherapy. asp (http://www. cancermonthly. com/chemotherapy. asp)  For more information about immune boosting products in cancer: http://www. cancermonthly. com/immune. asp (http://www. cancermonthly. com/immune. asp)  For more information about financial support for cancer patients: http://www. cancermonthly. com/financial. asp (http://www. cancermonthly. com/financial. asp)  For more information about legal options for mesothelioma patients: http://www. cancermonthly. com/legal_services. asp (http://www. cancermonthly. com/legal_services. asp)

Of course, none of this information in CancerWire is a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis or treatment and you should always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health professional before starting any new treatment or making any changes to an existing treatment. No information contained in Cancer Monthly or CancerWire including the information above, should be used to diagnose, treat cure or prevent any disease without the supervision of a medical doctor.

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Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation Extends Partnership with North Carolina's Free Clinics

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation Extends Partnership with North Carolina's Free Clinics

$10 Million Investment Continues Efforts to Increase Impact and Expand Reach

Chapel Hill, N. C. (Vocus) April 9, 2008

 Unprecedented, second five-year collaboration to increase statewide access to health care  Expanding free health care services currently offered by 74 clinics in 79 counties

The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (BCBSNC) Foundation announced today that it is extending its partnership with the North Carolina Association of Free Clinics (NCAFC) with an additional $10 million investment starting in 2009. With the extension, the BCBSNC Foundation is furthering its commitment to increase the impact and expand the reach of North Carolina's free clinic network.

"Free clinics do an incredible job of helping to address the health care needs of North Carolina's underserved and uninsured," said Bob Greczyn, chairman of the BCBSNC Foundation. "We are very proud of the success of our initial five-year collaboration, and we believe strongly in continuing to support the work that they do."

In June, BCBSNC Foundation and NCAFC will enter the final year of an initial five-year, $10 million partnership that began in 2004. Since that time, the number of free clinics and counties served have each grown by 32 percent. Currently, 74 clinics are providing services to individuals and families in 79 North Carolina counties, an increase of 18 clinics and 19 additional counties. Total patient visits have increased by almost 50 percent since the partnership began. Over the last three years alone, the amount of health care services being provided totals $186 million, an increase of nearly two-thirds.

"We couldn't offer the quality health care services we do to help people with their basic medical needs without the support of the community," said Mike Darrow, executive director of the NCAFC. "The BCBSNC Foundation is an unparalleled ally in ensuring that North Carolinians have access to the quality health care they need and deserve."

This is the first time in the seven-year history of the BCBSNC Foundation that a second grant has been distributed at this level and to the same organization. According to a Wake Forest University study1, every dollar invested in a clinic results in $4.42 in care, which means the return on investment is more than four times the initial grant.

"The results demonstrated since our partnership began speak volumes about the need for access to health care in our individual communities, the quality of care the clinics give and the ability they have to help people live healthier lives," said Kathy Higgins, president of the BCBSNC Foundation.

The average annual budget for individual clinics has increased by more than 50 percent since 2003. In fact, 90 percent of clinics have leveraged the initial BCBSNC Foundation investment to secure additional funding for their clinics.

To meet the increasing demand for health care services, the number of clinics providing at least 40 hours of care a week has more than doubled since 2003. In that same amount of time, the number of clinics providing interpreter services has more than tripled to nearly 80 percent.

North Carolina has the nation's largest association of free clinics. On April 29 from 5 p. m. to 8 p. m., all 74 member clinics of the NCAFC will be simultaneously hosting open houses in recognition of Cover the Uninsured Week.

Free clinics provide a combination of medical and dental care, as well as prescription medications. A percentage of patients who attend free clinics do so for the management of chronic illnesses. Many free clinics offer basic diabetes and cardiovascular disease management services, including foot exams, glucose and blood pressure monitoring.

Clinics are private, nonprofit, community-based organizations that provide health care access to North Carolinians through the use of volunteers and partnerships with other health providers. Free clinics receive no federal, state or other third-party reimbursement for services.

About NCAFC:
The North Carolina Association of Free Clinics, founded in 1998, is a private, nonprofit, 501 (c)(3) tax-exempt organization that conducts advocacy, research, public relations, resource development, training and technical assistance on behalf of its member free clinics and the people they serve. Headquartered in Winston-Salem, the Association received its largest two grants to date for $10 million each from the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation, in order to expand and strengthen the free health clinic network across the state. To learn more about the work of the Association, visit www. ncfreeclinics. org or call (336) 251-1111.

About BCBSNC Foundation:
The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation (BCBSNC Foundation) is a separate, independent, private, charitable foundation with the mission of improving the health and well-being of North Carolinians. Its focus is on improving the health of vulnerable populations, supporting physical activity and nutrition programs, and helping nonprofit groups improve their organizational capacity. The BCBSNC Foundation funds programs and services in response to grant requests and proactively creates initiatives or partners with organizations to address specific needs. It also coordinates several signature programs, among them, the Breast Health Project and Healthy Community Institute for Nonprofit Excellence. Since its inception, the Foundation has invested more than $33 million through 235 grants to organizations throughout North Carolina. More information is available at www. bcbsncfoundation. org.

1 Year Four Evaluation of the BCBSNC Foundation's Monetary Contribution to NCAFC: (Wake Forest University, September 2007)

Contact:
Valerie Egel, BCBSNC Foundation,(919) 765-3005
Mike Darrow, NCAFC, (336) 251-1111
Online: www. bcbsncfoundation. org

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Algoma Health Unit Deploys Datatel's TeleSafety IVR & Web Solution

Algoma Health Unit Deploys Datatel's TeleSafety IVR & Web Solution

Unit is first in Canada to launch a completely automated health and safety management process.

Toronto, ON & Pompano Beach, FL (PRWEB) April 27, 2005

Datatel, a leader in Hosted IVR and Business Intelligence Solutions, announced today that The Algoma Health Unit is the first in Canada to deploy TeleSafety Hosted Solutions. The TeleSafety health and safety management process combines a comprehensive suite of Hosted Telephone Functionality (hosted interactive voice response) (IVR), e-mail alerts, phone alerts and web reporting to enhance the levels of safety in "out-call" health care environments.

With TeleSafety, The Algoma Health Unit monitors the safety of all of its field employees in real-time. Case managers, public health nurses, family support workers, health practitioners and public health inspectors interact with TeleSafety throughout the day using their standard issue mobile phones.

"The Algoma Health Unit values employee safety and the TeleSafety brings the health unit the comfort that we are doing all we can to protect our most valuable resource, our employees," said Suzanne Irwin, Systems/Records Manager at AHU.

TeleSafety is delivering The Algoma Health Unit a continuous channel for monitoring, tracking, and communications between field practitioners and internal employees, providing the ability to respond quickly and efficiently to any situation where there could be a potential health and safety risk.

"With offices in Blind River, Elliot Lake, Sault Ste. Marie and Wawa, we have a large geographical area to cover. The automated health and safety tracking and monitoring system allow us to maintain safety and still do our job," reports Ms. Irwin.

In addition to the health and safety benefits, TeleSafety is delivering ongoing operational value, by reducing the administrative costs of tracking, communicating and reporting on field employees' activities, and provides ongoing access to the latest technology. "In addition to the enhancements to safety, we are using technology to our advantage. TeleSafety allows us to track employees more efficiently, has less chance of error, and if there is a problem we can investigate the situation immediately," said Ms. Irwin.

As a hosted solution, The Algoma Health Unit has avoided the risk and expense of large capital investments in hardware and software. In addition to cost savings, managers also benefit from access to the latest technology and dedicated support. By avoiding the time commitment of hardware purchases and configuration, Health Authorities enjoy rapid solution deployment.

"With dedication and ongoing collaboration with our clients, we are making TeleSafety, the most logical solution for Health Agencies to address the need for enhanced, field employee safety," said Barnard Crespi, CEO of Datatel. "We are pleased that TeleSafety is exceeding the expectations of our clients, and filling important gaps pertaining to field employee safety, while significantly cutting operational costs."

About Datatel

Datatel is a global communications technology company that delivers the benefits of Interactive Voice Response (IVR), as a service, by providing turnkey hosted & managed solutions. By capitalizing on the world's most widely used technology - the telephone, Datatel facilitates communication and interaction between organizations, regardless of their size, or their customers'. Datatel has invested millions of dollars on hosting infrastructure, technology and research, to deliver the most flexible and robust IVR ASP service model in the industry. Datatel's IVR platform comes from over 10 years of research, development and continuous improvement to arrive at an IVR service model that provides our clients with reliability, flexibility and the ability to integrate into a wide range of emerging technologies, including mobile messaging and web services. www. datatel-systems. com

About Algoma Health Unit

For over 30 years, the Algoma Health Unit has helped keep our communities healthy. We are committed to supporting healthy communities by providing a continuum of quality health services throughout the District of Algoma. The Health Unit administers health promotion and disease prevention programs to inform the public about healthy life-styles, communicable disease control including education in STDs/AIDS, immunization, food premises inspection, healthy growth and development including parenting education, health education for all age groups and selected screening services. Specially qualified staff work together within the Health Unit and the Community to carry out these health services. www. ahu. on. ca

For more information about DatatelÂ’s TeleSafety IVR & Web solution for automated health and safety management, contact:

D. Bruce Sinclair / Vice President, Business Development

Datatel Inc/Datatel Communications Inc

Toll-Free: 1-866-870-3258

D. brucesinclair@datatel-systems. com

Http://www. datatel-systems. com (http://www. datatel-systems. com)

Barnard Crespi

416-444-9172 x 251

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Digital Art Festival's Final Exhibit and Awards

Digital Art Festival's Final Exhibit and Awards

DIGIFESTIVAL. NET 2005 is a cantiere of virtual art the first multimedia festival in streaming video, organized by Art in Vision and realized in cooperation with TRA ART, Regional Network for Contemporary Art of Tuscany, is coming to the end of its first edition.

(PRWEB) October 8, 2005

DigiFestival. net – Cantiere of virtual art the first multimedia festival in streaming video, organized by Art in Vision and realized in cooperation with TRA ART, Regional Network for Contemporary Art of Tuscany, is coming to the end of its first edition.

The audience voting procedure through the electronic form closed on schedule on September 15th and the vote count already took place.

The technical jury, formed by 4 jurors (Mr. Franco Morabito for the Sport section, Mr. Lorenzo Guasti for Photography, Prof. Vito Tobbia for the Movies section and Prof. Nuccio D’Angelo for the Music) and the Art in Vision staff has come to a verdict.

The names of all winners have already been published on the festival website www. digifestival. net. One jury Special Mention has also been assigned.

The official award presentation of the video in the contest and the assignment of prizes will take place during the DigiFestival. net 2005 Final Exhibit to be held, as mentioned in the previous press release, in Florence on Saturday Oct. 15 at Mercafir (Piazza Artom 12, Florence Italy), the Tuscan Regional Fruit Market, starting from 9 p. m.

The idea of such event represent the natural development of the will of giving the video in the contest a true “citizenship” in the physical space other than the virtual one as a natural conclusion of the festival.

The DigiFestival. net website in this occasion will come to life in a 2600m2 structure that will become an installation itself; from the web to a physical space in a fusion of art, images and matter, inorganic and not, contained in a frame that will embrace video points to show the festival winning works and meet the artists who created them.

Fabrizio Mariotti, host of the famous “Stressing” TV show, will entertain the house and will welcome the contest winners.

Intooitiv, already DigiFestival. net partner with the Florence MUV Festival, will take care of all the exhibit guests with wine, cocktails and other drinks.

And it’s not over yet because the event will continue with the DigiFestival. net 2005 After Night. This raid in the physical world will take its first step at Mercafir and will keep on going through its all night long path in other Florence’s famous meeting places.

At 2 a. m., when the lights of the Florentine’s fruit market will be switched back on, all the videos and the music will continue to be the night protagonists in other festival’s partner venues.

It is so that DigiFestival. net Final Exhibit, from 2:30 a. m. will move to an historic club in the hart of Florence: the ExMud (corso Tintori, 4) that will be opened until 5 a. m. for the DigiFestival. net 2005 After Party.

We do know that a night of images, sounds and lights can make the best trained Saturday night lovers starving and we decided to finish it with a sweet moment in the continental breakfast that will take place at Birbacco Wine Bar (Lungarno Ferrucci,4) on the other side of the river with access reserved only to the final exhibit guests to join the DigiFestival 2005 After Breakfast.

No worries, for all non–Saturday night fever enthusiasts but “art lovers” Birbacco will open its doors from 2:30 a. m. and will be open ‘till 9:00 a. m. with its rich continental breakfast buffet.

A “white night” to bring back to a physical world one year of work in the virtual domain witnessed, documented and realized thanks to the cooperation with Omikron, Aida and Montagni Audiovisivi, in the capable hands of director Lorenzo Galanti, to be published on www. digichannel. net shortly after!

It seemed a must to us to state that there is no entry fee for the DigiFestival. net 2005 Final Exhibit at Mercafir and that the content of every showed video is suitable for all audiences.

We’re waiting for you and you’re all invited!

Maria Novella Gai

External Relations DigiFestival. net

Vice President Ass. Cult. Art in Vision

DigiFestival. net Partners

TRA ART - rete regionale per l'arte contemporanea

Http://www. cultura. toscana. it/artecontemporanea/index. shtml (http://www. cultura. toscana. it/artecontemporanea/index. shtml)
Spraci. com

Http://www. spraci. com  (http://www. spraci. com)
Nexus Technologies

Http://www. nexustechnologies. it/ (http://www. nexustechnologies. it/)
Fondazione Museo del Calcio

Http://www. museodelcalcio. it/ (http://www. museodelcalcio. it/)
IndieClub. com

Http://www. IndieClub. com (http://www. IndieClub. com)
Radio K Centrale – Radio For Peace

Http://www. radiokcentrale. it/ (http://www. radiokcentrale. it/)
Firenze MUV Festival

Http://www. firenzemuv. com/ (http://www. firenzemuv. com/)
S. Ambrogio Summer Festival

Http://www. firenzejazz. it/ (http://www. firenzejazz. it/)
Dicart s. r.l

Via della Calandre, Calenzano, Firenze

Graficalito s. n.c di Massimo Guernieri

Via delle Calandre, Calenzano, Firenze

Punto Verde Il Melograno

Prodotti naturali, bio-health center * reformhaus

Via Tanzini 17, Pontassieve, Firenze

Omikron s. n.c.

Http://www. omikronaudioservice. it/ (http://www. omikronaudioservice. it/)
AIDA

Http://www. aidanet. com/ (http://www. aidanet. com/)
Audiovisivi Montagni

Viale Cadorna 44, 50129, Firenze

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Orion Health Adds Client Services Team to Aid Customers with Electronic Health Data Integration Programs

Orion Health Adds Client Services Team to Aid Customers with Electronic Health Data Integration Programs

Orion Health introduces a new program to ensure high-quality service is maintained to improve communication and customer-driven development. The newly formed Client Services team will ensure an additional level of partnership with customers for the speedy resolution of post implementation questions and to focus on increasing alignment between clients' business needs and Orion Health solutions.

Santa Monica, California (PRWEB) March 10, 2009

Orion Health http://www. orionhealth. com (http://www. orionhealth. com) a leading provider of clinical workflow and integration technology for eHealth, introduces a new program to ensure high-quality service is maintained to improve communication and customer-driven development.

The newly formed Client Services team will ensure an additional level of partnership with customers for the speedy resolution of post implementation questions and to focus on increasing alignment between clients' business needs and Orion Health solutions.

Paul Viskovich President Orion Health North America and EMEA, describes the Client Services role as a trusted advisor and advocate for the customer.

"As North American healthcare facilities are rapidly adopting electronic health record (EHR) and data integration programs, we are bolstering our ability to provide assistance and enhanced service to help customers meet their goals. Keeping customers satisfied by anticipating their needs with products and services has always been part of Orion Health's operation. This new group simply formalizes the process with a dedicated team," he says.

Orion Health solutions use standards-based technology to integrate data within a facility and external partners without incurring costly rip and replace approaches. Currently the company helps facilities and healthcare communities that connect 35 million patients with tens of thousands of active users.

Orion Health's John Briscoe has been tapped as Client Services Manager and will work directly with clients to help them take advantage of technology to ease data integration for participation in health information exchanges (HIEs), EHR and other eHealth efforts. The Client Services team will focus initial efforts on the rapidly expanding North American market and extend to global support in the future.

About Orion Health
Orion Health's easy-to-use solutions and applications improve patient care and clinical decision making by providing integrated health data in a single, unified view. By enhancing existing healthcare information systems, Orion Health's Rhapsody integration engine, Concerto physician portal, and workflow solutions provide healthcare workers with easy access to patient data and trends, and reduce errors and omissions by streamlining information transfer.

Worldwide, Orion Health is implementing health information communities involving over 35 million patients with tens of thousands of active users including Maine's HealthInfoNet and the Vermont Health Information Exchange. Orion Health's partners include leading health system integrators and IT vendors such as Accenture, IBM, Oracle Corporation, Sierra Systems and others. Orion Health has more than 1,000 clients around the world, including Lahey Clinic, New York State Department of Health, UCLA Medical Center, and U. S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

More information can be found at http://www. orionhealth. com (http://www. orionhealth. com).

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Reimbursement, Liability Issues Frustrate Surgeons -- Physician Recruiting Firm Data Indicate Many Plan Job Change

Reimbursement, Liability Issues Frustrate Surgeons -- Physician Recruiting Firm Data Indicate Many Plan Job Change

Among 327 general surgeons responding to a national on-line survey conducted in summer 2006, only 4% said they were not frustrated about practicing medicine in today’s healthcare marketplace. More than a third (36%) of respondents to the physician recruiting firm survey said they planned to change jobs within the next year and, including those, almost half (49%) said they planned to change jobs within 2 years. Regarding physician salaries, the LocumTenens. com survey results indicate the average general surgeon salary increased by almost 6%, from $236,676 in the physician recruiting firm’s 2005 survey to $250,200 in 2006.

Alpharetta, Ga. (PRWEB) October 5, 2006

As the American College of Surgeons prepares to meet in Chicago next week, physician recruiting firm LocumTenens. com today offered a look of the state of the general surgeon practicing in the United States.

Among 327 general surgeons responding to a national on-line survey conducted in summer 2006, only 4% said they were not frustrated about practicing medicine in today's healthcare marketplace. The remaining respondents identified with a list of possible frustrations as follows:

Reimbursement issues -- 34% Medical liability issues -- 23% Lifestyle issues: Too much time at work -- 16% Administrative and business agendas interfere with clinical decisions -- 11% Federal regulations, policies, procedures -- 8%

"Most physicians choose medicine for reasons other than making money," LocumTenens. com Vice President Will Drescher said. "Many don't anticipate the nonclinical challenges of practicing medicine in today's healthcare marketplace---and they're less willing than previous generations of physicians to sacrifice other parts of their lives to do so."

More than a third (36%) of respondents to the physician recruiting firm survey said they planned to change jobs within the next year and, including those, almost half (49%) said they planned to change jobs within 2 years. However, 42% said they had no plans to change jobs in the foreseeable future. (To see complete surgeon survey results, click here: http://www. locumtenens. com/surgeon-comp06 (http://www. locumtenens. com/surgeon-comp06).)

Regardless of their frustration, more than two-thirds of respondents (69%) said they would choose medicine as a career path if they had it to do over again. This compares with respondents from other specialties as follows:

56% of obstetricians/gynecologists 57% of orthopedic surgeons 67% of anesthesiologists 70% of pediatricians, internists and radiologists 77% of psychiatrists

Regarding physician salaries, the LocumTenens. com survey results indicate the average general surgeon salary increased by almost 6%, from $236,676 in the physician recruiting firm's 2005 survey to $250,200 in 2006. Physicians in the following specialties reported the largest increases over 2005 salaries:

Obstetrics & Gynecology -- 19% increase Family Practice -- 12% increase Non-invasive Cardiology -- 10% increase Gastroenterology -- 8% increase Neurology -- 7% increase

While 19% of respondents to the LocumTenens. com survey said they don't receive annual bonuses or incentives, 79% reported receiving bonuses of $20,000 or more annually.

Eighty-seven percent of survey participants were male, 80% were board-certified, and more than half (55%) had practiced medicine for more than 10 years. Only 30% of respondents said they had worked as a locum tenens provider, but another 65% said they would consider it.

About LocumTenens. com

Founded in 1995, LocumTenens. com is a full-service physician/CRNA recruiting firm specializing in supplemental placement of anesthesiologists, radiologists, psychiatrists, surgeons and CRNAs with U. S. hospitals, medical groups and community health centers. LocumTenens. com is part of the Jackson Healthcare Staffing family of companies. To learn more, visit the company's web sites at http://www. locumtenens. com/media (http://www. locumtenens. com/media) and www. CRNAjobs. com.

# # #

PROJECT HARMONY BRINGS ARMENIAN AND AMERICAN SCHOOLS TOGETHER ONLINE

PROJECT HARMONY BRINGS ARMENIAN AND AMERICAN SCHOOLS TOGETHER ONLINE

Project Harmony facilitates a program in Armenia which puts computer labs and Internet access in schools. An additional component is partnership online collaborative projects with American schools.

(PRWEB) April 7, 2002

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Attention: Newsroom; Community/Features; Education; Technology

PROJECT HARMONY BRINGS ARMENIAN AND AMERICAN SCHOOLS TOGETHER ONLINE

Waitsfield, Vermont-April 5, 2002 -- Project Harmony is facilitating online collaborative projects between schools in the United States and schools in the Republic of Armenia as a part of the Armenia Connectivity 2000 Program (AC2K). The AC2K Program, made possible through a grant from the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the U. S. Department of State.

The Armenia Connectivity 2000 program seeks to empower Armenian educators and students by promoting civic education and cross-cultural understanding through the use of Internet technologies. Through establishing online computer labs, creating partnerships among schools and educators, and providing intensive technical and educational training, the AC2K Program facilitates the open exchange of ideas and the integration of Internet resources into Armenian classrooms and the global community. The AC2K Program has already connected over 60 schools and will have over 80 schools connected by the end of the 2001-2002 school year.

An essential component of the AC2K Program is the creation of a school network through online collaborative projects between Armenian and American students and educators. The AC2K Program currently has two American-Armenian collaborative projects to facilitate the creation of a school network.

The first project is the AC2K Online Collaborative Projects in which eighteen teams of Armenian and American educators are working on one of four projects. Project topics include an international import-export business simulation, an evaluation of cultural values within folk tales, holidays and superstitions, a model government project where students discuss the value of membership in international organizations, and a project that allows students to discuss art's role in culture.

The projects began in November 2001 when all American participants attended a two day orientation in Washington, D. C. Their Armenian counterparts had their orientation in December 2001 in Yerevan, Armenia.

The educator teams spent the month of January and February on the Project Harmony online workspace becoming acquainted and planning the next few months of collaboration. In February students participated in an online cultural orientation to their partner country and in March the project work began.

The AC2K American partners consist of eighteen U. S. Schools coming from twelve states: California, Florida (3), Georgia (2), Maine, Minnesota, New York (2), Oregon (2), South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Virginia (2), Wisconsin. Included in the AC2K U. S. Partner Schools is the most ethnically diverse high school in California, one technology magnet school, a special education school, an English as a Second Language class, an international school, and the second largest wireless network in the United States, after Harvard University.

The second AC2K partnership project is the Network Competition, which is a second phase of online project work incorporating more Armenian and U. S. schools. Students are given the assignment to do research on the symbols of their state and country. Each school creates a symbol representing their school with a one-paragraph essay. All participating students vote on one U. S. and one Armenian symbol. Within this project students will discuss connections between symbols and specific characteristics and publish their writing and art on the Project Harmony AC2K website.

The Network Competition incorporates 37 additional U. S. Schools. The 20 additional states represented: Arizona, Arkansas, California (3), Florida (4), Illinois (2), Indiana (3), Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota (2), Missouri (3), New Jersey (2), North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon (2), Pennsylvania, Texas (4), Virginia (2), Washington.

Project Harmony's mission is to empower individuals to create healthier communities through international training and exchange programs. Project Harmony was founded in Vermont in 1985 as a grass-roots exchange organization for Soviet and American high schools. Today, Project Harmony has 20 offices world-wide and a staff of more than 100 employees. In it's 15-year history, Project Harmony has facilitated educational, professional, cultural and community based programs involving hundreds of families and individuals. Please visit our web site: www. projectharmony. org. The Armenia-specific web site is: www. projectharmony. org/am (http://www. projectharmony. org/am).

PROJECT HARMONY CONTACT:

Katy Pearce, Program Coordinator

Project Harmony

Phone: 802-496-4545

Email: katy@projectharmony. org

###

Participants in AC2K Online Collaborative Partnership Projects:

Tresa Wilson, Madrid-Waddington Central School, Madrid-Waddington, NY + Anoush Khachikyan, Ashtarak School #1 Dawn Statz, Wisconsin Heights MS, Mazomanie, WI + Irene Barseghyan, Talin School #2 Pete Sienkiewicz, Mount Vernon HS, Alexandria, VA + Manya Matevosyan, Goris School #3 Karolyne Lucero & Chris Angell, St. Edward's School, Vero Beach, FL + Narine Aivazyan, Yerevan School #172 Alicia Lawhorn, E. L. Wright MS, Columbia, SC + Tigran Kocharyan, Vanadzor School #1 Bryant Baird, Northwest MS, Salt Lake City, UT + Armen Iskhanyan, Jermuk School #2 Gohar Atamian, QSCD-P752Q, Jamaica, NY + Shakey Kirajyan, Yerevan School for Visually Disabled Dan Snyder, PineCrest School, Ft. Lauderdale, FL + Zhanna Sukiasyan, Yerevan Shirakatsi School (Gifted) Joye Otto, Valley Catholic HS, Beaverton, OR + Angela Movsesyan, Echmiadzin School #2 Tracy Hinson, A. J. Ferrell MS of Technology, Tampa, FL + Angela Arzumanyan, Nor Hajen School #2 Regine Haardoerfer & Dorothy Connor, Atlanta International School, Atlanta, GA + Sophya Martirosyan, Akhuryan School #1 Steve Egyhazi, Humboldt Senior HS, Saint Paul, MN + Aram Hovsepyan, Vayk School #2 Lisa Cronin-Comeau, Skowhegan Area HS, Skowhegan, ME + Silvard Revazyan, Koghb School #2 Mariana Cordon, Crawford HS, San Diego, CA + Melania Alaverdyan, Yerevan School #51 Heather Cole, Falls Church HS, Falls Church, VA + Rufa Mkrtchyan, Abovyan School #10 Gene Solomon, Cleveland HS, Portland, OR + Anahit Stepanyan, Sissian School #2 Patricia Smith, Florence HS, Florence, TX + Karine Khandanyan, Gavar School #9 Dianne Crossman & Barbara Warren, J. E. Richards MS, Lawrenceville, GA + Robert Grigoryan, Metsamor School #1

Network Competition Additional Participating Schools:

Carson Middle School, Tucson, AZ; Christopher Wilkinson grades 6-8 Drew Central, Monticello, AR; Mike Duncan grades 7-12 Henry M. Gunn High School, Palo Alto, CA; John Mitchell grades 9-12 Joaquin Moraga Intermediate School, Moraga, CA; Ellen Georgi grades 7-8 Central Elementary School, San Diego, CA; Mary Anne Moeller grades K-4 Cocoa High School, Cocoa, FL; Betty Payne-Craig grades 10-12 Millennium Middle School, Sanford, FL; Rosemary Shaw grades 6-8 Gulf Middle School, Cape Coral, FL; James Spieth grades 6-8 Hillsborough High School, Tampa, FL; Darcy Vetro Ravndal grades 9-12 Alexis Junior High, Alexis, IL; Brooke Rayborn grades 6-8 North High School, Downers Grove, IL; Martha Merilos grade 11-12 Mooresville High School, Mooresville, IN; Tricia Ferguson grades 9-12 Clay Junior High School, Carmel, IN; Sally Davidson grades 6-8 Wawasee Middle School, Syracuse, IN; Peggy Cook grades 6-8 Chinquapin Middle School, Baltimore, MD; D. Holly grades 6-8 Mahoney Middle School, South Portland, ME; Mike Towle & Steve Koelker grade 7 Cass Technical High School, Detroit, MI; Karen Kachadurian grades 9-12 Richfield High School, Richfield, MN; Mike Harris grades 9-12 Valley View Middle School, Edina, MN; Melisa Zenner grades 6-9 St. Matthais the Apostle, St. Louis, MO; Rebecca Willhoft grades K-8 West Junior High School, Columbia, MO; Chris Fischer grade 9 Garden Schools, Ava, MO; Brian Burton grades 1-8 Emerson Jr.-Sr. High School, Emerson, NJ; Gregory Gerard White grades 7-12 Sacred Heart School, Mount Holly, NJ; Ronald Maniglia grades K-8 Green Hope High School, Morrisville, NC; Kathleen Benningfield grade 10 Solomon Schechter Day School, Shaker Heights, OH; Terry Tetelman grades K-8 Kenneth Cooper Middle School, Oklahoma City, OK; Sybil Connolly grades 6-8 West Linn High School, West Linn, OR; Rick Reynolds grade 9 Stayton High School, Stayton, OR; Rachel Krieger grades 9-12 Upper Perkiomen High School, Pennsburg, PA; Debra Congdon grades 9-12 International School of the Americas, San Antonio, TX; Pamela Valentine & Karen Butcher grades 9-12 Lake Dallas High School, Dallas, TX; Brian Waterman grade 11 Prestonwood Christian Academy, Plano, TX; Teresa Reeves grades K-12 Stony Point High School, Round Rock, TX; Donna Ryan grades 9-11 Appomattox Regional Governor's School for the Arts and Technology, Petersburg, VA; E. L. Roane grades 9-12 gifted Chandler Middle School, Richmond, VA; Sarah Boyd grade 6 Bellevue High School, Bellevue, WA; Jeremy Best grades 10-12

Other press coverage:

Http://www. kdhnews. com/learning_florence2.html (http://www. kdhnews. com/learning_florence2.html)

ARMENIA:

Location: Southwestern Asia, east of Turkey, north of Iran

Area (comparative): slightly smaller than Maryland

Population: 3,336,100 (July 2001 est.)

Ethnic groups: Armenian 93%, Azeri 3%, Russian 2%, other (mostly Yezidi Kurds) 2% (1989) note: as of the end of 1993, virtually all Azeris had emigrated from Armenia

Religions: Armenian Christian Orthodox 94%

Languages: Armenian 96%, Russian 2%, other 2%

Literacy: total population: 99%

Country name: conventional long form: Republic of Armenia

Conventional short form: Armenia

Local long form: Hayastani Hanrapetut'yun

Local short form: Hayastan

Former: Armenian Soviet Socialist Republic; Armenian Republic

Government type: Republic

Capital: Yerevan

Economy overview: Under the old Soviet central planning system, Armenia had developed a modern industrial sector, supplying machine tools, textiles, and other manufactured goods to sister republics in exchange for raw materials and energy. Since the implosion of the USSR in December 1991, Armenia has switched to small-scale agriculture away from the large agroindustrial complexes of the Soviet era. The agricultural sector has long-term needs for more investment and updated technology. The privatization of industry has been at a slower pace, but has been given renewed emphasis by the current administration. Armenia is a food importer, and its mineral deposits (gold, bauxite) are small. The ongoing conflict with Azerbaijan over the ethnic Armenian-dominated region of Nagorno-Karabakh and the breakup of the centrally directed economic system of the former Soviet Union contributed to a severe economic decline in the early 1990s. By 1994, however, the Armenian Government had launched an ambitious IMF-sponsored economic program that has resulted in positive growth rates in 1995-2000. Armenia also managed to slash inflation and to privatize most small - and medium-sized enterprises. The chronic energy shortages Armenia suffered in recent years have been largely offset by the energy supplied by one of its nuclear power plants at Metsamor. Armenia's severe trade imbalance, importing three times its exports, has been offset somewhat by international aid, domestic restructuring of the economy, and foreign direct investment.

GDP: purchasing power parity - $10 billion (2000 est.)

GDP per capita: purchasing power parity - $3,000 (2000 est.) ($250 per month)

Population below poverty line: 45% (1999 est.)

Unemployment rate: 20% (1998 est.) note: official rate is 9.3% for 1998

Industries: metal-cutting machine tools, forging-pressing machines, electric motors, tires, knitted wear, hosiery, shoes, silk fabric, chemicals, trucks, instruments, microelectronics, gem cutting, jewelry manufacturing, software development, brandy

Telephones (main lines in use): 568,000 (1997)

Telephones (mobile cellular): 6,220 (1997)

Internet users: 30,000 (2000)

Disputes: Armenia supports ethnic Armenians in the Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan in the longstanding, separatist conflict against the Azerbaijani Government; traditional demands regarding former Armenian lands in Turkey have subsided