Washington, Nov 15 - The US today said there is no change in its policy of denying visa to Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi.
ÒNo, there are no new developments on that,Ó Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Robert Blake told reporters here when asked if there is any review of denial of visa to Modi.
The US had denied visa to Modi in March 2005 for his alleged complicity in the in the communal riots in Gujarat in 2002. Modi had applied for a visa to go to the US for participating in the annual convention Asian American Hotel Owners Blake, however, said Gujarat itself remains a very important place for American investment.
ÒI think it has shown itself to be a very welcoming environment for American business to flourish. We will continue to promote investment, encourage investment into that State,Ó he said yesterday.
Blake said the US is now trying to build up its relationship with Indian States.
ÒWe recently have begun an effort to try to enhance state-to-state ties between our two countries -Special Representative Rita Jo Lewis recently made a trip to India with that in mind -because we believe there are quite significant opportunities for individual American states to do more with their Indian counterparts,Ó Blake said.
ÒIndeed, there's quite a lot of dynamism at the state level in India, so we want to just try to capture that, and again, encourage those state-to-state and city-to-city links.
So I think you ll see more of that in our relations over the next several years, said the US official.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Inspan Announces Attractive Scheme for Resellers from Genius
CHENNAI, India - November 15, 2011 - Inspan Infotech, one of the largest IT distribution companies for motherboards and hardware components, announced attractive scheme resellers on sales of Genius products for the OND 2011 quarter.
Resellers will be eligible for the following rewards on sales of Genius products
- Invoice value worth Rs 50,000, will be eligible for Adidas gift vouchers worth Rs 1,500/-
- Invoice value worth Rs 1, 00,000, will be eligible for Ray-Ban sunglasses
- Invoice value worth Rs 2, 00,000, will be eligible for a AGAMA RC 520A Robotic vacuum cleaner
- Invoice value worth Rs 3, 00, 000, will be eligible for a Pico projector GPP1000, Genius media player 200 and 8GB SD card
This scheme is valid from 1st October 2011 to 30th December 2011and is valid for the purchases billed out from Inspan Infotech. However above scheme cannot be merged or clubbed with any other scheme that may be running at that time. Genius reserves the rights of execution, alternation and will entertain all the scheme claims directly from distributors.
"Attractive schemes from Genius have always been well appreciated by the channel partners. With every inch of growth Genius has always rewarded its channel partners fairly to motivate them. The targets of Genius scheme have always been designed to be achievable by channel partners."said Sudhir S, Managing Director of Inspan Infotech.
Price, Warranty and Availability
Standard pricing and warranty clauses are applicable on the products as announced from Genius. These products are available ex-Stock across all offices of Inspan in the country. World's First High-Performance Quad Channel
Banglore, (India), Nov.15 - Corsair®, a worldwide designer and supplier of high-performance components to the PC gaming hardware market, today announced the world's first high-performance quad channel Dominator 32GB DDR3 memory kit.
The Dominator 32GB Quad Channel kit (part number CMT32GX3M4X1866C9) consists of four rigorously-screened 8GB DDR3 DRAM modules with Corsair's patented DHX+ heatsinks. It operates at 1.5V and is designed to run at 1866MHz, with 9-10-9-27 C9 timing. Corsair has compatibility tested the new 32GB Quad Channel kit with upcoming quad channel platforms as well as current dual channel platforms.
"The new Dominator 32GB Quad Channel memory kit is designed for high-performance PC enthusiasts using the latest motherboards, whether they're overclockers, gamers, or simply want a large amount of state-of-the-art memory," said Thi La, Vice President of Memory Products at Corsair. "Corsair is a market leader in high-performance memory, and we're pleased to be first to market with a high-performance 32GB quad channel kit."
Monday, October 24, 2011
Consumers Oppose Annual Rate Increases
Clear Message to Legislators: No to Rate Hike Bill
CHICAGO, Oct. 24 - With the clock ticking towards the start of the legislative veto session in Springfield, Illinois
consumers today sent a simple but clear message to lawmakers: No to
Senate Bill 1652, ComEd and Ameren's annual utility rate hike
legislation. The bill, which was vetoed by Governor Pat Quinn
in September, is due back to legislators next week and consumers will
reach out to their elected representatives to ensure the Governor's veto
stands in both chambers.
To strengthen their message, consumer advocacy groups led by AARP joined with Governor Quinn, as well as with representatives from the Attorney General's office and leaders of the business community in Chicago, to unveil the results of a statewide telephone poll.
The poll of 800 registered voters, conducted by AARP and other concerned groups, found that nearly 7 in 10 Illinoisans oppose annual increases in their electric bills, even if they would improve reliability and prevent outages. Additionally, more than half of those polled (52 percent) stated that they wouldn't vote for a legislator who allows electric utilities to raise their rates annually.
"Consumers have expressed themselves very clearly: they do not want automated rate increases, and they believe their electric bill is already too high," said AARP Illinois State Director Bob Gallo. "We are asking our 1.7 million members, and all Illinoisans, to hold legislators accountable on this critical issue and urge their legislator to uphold the Governor's veto."
"When I vetoed this bill, I said consumers can't be expected to foot the bill for executive bonuses and lobbyists fees with massive rate hikes that don't do anything to improve Illinois' power grid. Before even considering rate hikes, we need to make sure consumers are getting the quality service they already pay for," Governor Quinn said. "More than 1.5 million people and businesses have had to deal with power outages and service disruptions this summer, and now these same utilities are trying to change the rules to guarantee themselves annual rate increases, while eliminating any real accountability. I'm not buying what they're selling and ratepayers agree."
"Consumers deserve—and are willing to pay for—reliable service, but until they get it, they won't support automatic profits for ComEd and Ameren," Attorney General Lisa Madigan said.
"Businesses throughout Illinois have fought hard to develop a competitive energy market," said Steve Longhta, who represents the Illinois Industrial Energy Consumers. "The passage of Senate Bill 1652 would move Illinois backwards by setting utility costs and dictating a utility's earnings in state statute." The Illinois Industrial Energy Consumers consists of more than 30 of Illinois' largest manufacturers who support decisions that are good for business in matters involving electric, natural gas and water service operations.
"Call it what you want, the bottom line is that SB1652 is a bad deal for Illinois consumers as it will significantly raise electric rates at a time when individuals and families are still struggling to afford basic necessities," said William McNary, Co-Director for Citizen Action. "We need consumers to stand up, and urge their legislators to uphold Governor Quinn's veto."
The statewide poll also found that:
AARP is urging individuals to call toll-free 1-800-719-3020 and urge their legislators to vote "NO" on SB1652. For additional information, go to: http://saynotoratehikes.org.
To strengthen their message, consumer advocacy groups led by AARP joined with Governor Quinn, as well as with representatives from the Attorney General's office and leaders of the business community in Chicago, to unveil the results of a statewide telephone poll.
The poll of 800 registered voters, conducted by AARP and other concerned groups, found that nearly 7 in 10 Illinoisans oppose annual increases in their electric bills, even if they would improve reliability and prevent outages. Additionally, more than half of those polled (52 percent) stated that they wouldn't vote for a legislator who allows electric utilities to raise their rates annually.
"Consumers have expressed themselves very clearly: they do not want automated rate increases, and they believe their electric bill is already too high," said AARP Illinois State Director Bob Gallo. "We are asking our 1.7 million members, and all Illinoisans, to hold legislators accountable on this critical issue and urge their legislator to uphold the Governor's veto."
"When I vetoed this bill, I said consumers can't be expected to foot the bill for executive bonuses and lobbyists fees with massive rate hikes that don't do anything to improve Illinois' power grid. Before even considering rate hikes, we need to make sure consumers are getting the quality service they already pay for," Governor Quinn said. "More than 1.5 million people and businesses have had to deal with power outages and service disruptions this summer, and now these same utilities are trying to change the rules to guarantee themselves annual rate increases, while eliminating any real accountability. I'm not buying what they're selling and ratepayers agree."
"Consumers deserve—and are willing to pay for—reliable service, but until they get it, they won't support automatic profits for ComEd and Ameren," Attorney General Lisa Madigan said.
"Businesses throughout Illinois have fought hard to develop a competitive energy market," said Steve Longhta, who represents the Illinois Industrial Energy Consumers. "The passage of Senate Bill 1652 would move Illinois backwards by setting utility costs and dictating a utility's earnings in state statute." The Illinois Industrial Energy Consumers consists of more than 30 of Illinois' largest manufacturers who support decisions that are good for business in matters involving electric, natural gas and water service operations.
"Call it what you want, the bottom line is that SB1652 is a bad deal for Illinois consumers as it will significantly raise electric rates at a time when individuals and families are still struggling to afford basic necessities," said William McNary, Co-Director for Citizen Action. "We need consumers to stand up, and urge their legislators to uphold Governor Quinn's veto."
The statewide poll also found that:
- 81 percent responded that they believe utility donations had influence over legislators who voted for SB1652;
- 70 percent already believe their electric system is reliable;
- 50 percent think their electric bill is too high;
- 47 percent responded that the bill should be amended to protect consumers AND an additional 26 percent responded, without being prompted, that the legislature should not "pass anything";
- Only 10 percent responded "State Legislature" when asked between the State Legislature and the ICC which group do they believe "would best represent your interests in regulating electric utilities."
AARP is urging individuals to call toll-free 1-800-719-3020 and urge their legislators to vote "NO" on SB1652. For additional information, go to: http://saynotoratehikes.org.
10 Test Driving Tips for Car Buying Consumers
ORLANDO, Fla., Oct. 24 -It is easy for car buying consumers to fall
in love at first sight with the sleek styling and attractive exterior of
their dream machine. In most American households today, a vehicle
purchase is a major financial expense, so a second look and an extensive
test drive is time well invested.
AAA Automotive experts recommend that consumers start that test drive at the computer keyboard. Valuable information about vehicle safety features, performance data, and purchase pricing and resale value can be researched online.
"In today's economy, consumers have additional factors to consider when purchasing a vehicle, often making the selection process more difficult and extensive," said John Nielsen, AAA Director of Automotive Repair, Buying, and Consumer Information. "There is no substitute for quality research and an in-depth test drive tailored to your personal driving needs, to help make a sound financial car buying decision."
The physical test drive is the next step in the car buying research process. An extensive test drive can reveal many important factors not immediately obvious at first blush.
AAA recommends the following test driving tips:
Before You Drive. Walk around the car. Is it the right size for the needs of your family? Check the quality of the assembly and the tightness of the body panel alignment. Check for bubbles and pitting on the paint and chrome. Open and close the tailgate or trunk and doors. Does it sound solid and well made? Will the design allow for easy loading of luggage, sporting goods, and groceries?
Be a Backseat Test Driver. Ask the salesperson to take you for a preliminary test drive. You can focus on the ride without the distraction of driving, and you're more likely to notice noise and overall comfort. And, of course, you can evaluate backseat room for future passengers.
Find Your Fit. Get in and try the car on for size. Check the leg room and visibility. How easy is it to adjust the seats? Are the controls easy to read, reach and use? Try all of the accessories and options, such as air conditioning, the sound system, and navigation aids.
On The Road. Drive the exact model of the car you want to purchase. Pick your own route for the test drive. If possible, pick a route that mirrors your daily driving routine. It's a good idea to test the car's ride quality and handling on a number of different road surfaces: city streets, hills, freeways, and winding roads.
Power. Test the engine's responsiveness in real-world conditions. Is there a smooth and constant delivery of power? Try merging onto the highway, passing, and stop-and-go city driving. Spend part of the test drive with the air conditioner on to see if it drains power.
Transmission. Look for smoothness and ease of operation. Listen for hesitation or straining.
Handling. Check steering responsiveness. Practice long turns and sharp turns. Safely practice sudden swerves and gradual lane changes.
Brakes. Your life could depend on your brakes, so put them to the test. Brake both softly and decisively to gain an accurate idea of the car's stopping distance.
Noise Level. At various speeds, listen for excessive engine, road, and wind noise. Check for squeaks and rattles coming from the interior and bodywork. Listen with the windows open and closed.
Parking. Parallel park to discover any blind spots or potential difficulty in identifying the corners of the car.
AAA recommends that consumers always have pre-owned vehicles inspected by a quality repair facility prior to purchasing. More than 8,000 AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities are located across North America.
As North America's largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides more than 52 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. AAA clubs can be visited on the Internet at AAA.com
AAA Automotive experts recommend that consumers start that test drive at the computer keyboard. Valuable information about vehicle safety features, performance data, and purchase pricing and resale value can be researched online.
"In today's economy, consumers have additional factors to consider when purchasing a vehicle, often making the selection process more difficult and extensive," said John Nielsen, AAA Director of Automotive Repair, Buying, and Consumer Information. "There is no substitute for quality research and an in-depth test drive tailored to your personal driving needs, to help make a sound financial car buying decision."
The physical test drive is the next step in the car buying research process. An extensive test drive can reveal many important factors not immediately obvious at first blush.
AAA recommends the following test driving tips:
Before You Drive. Walk around the car. Is it the right size for the needs of your family? Check the quality of the assembly and the tightness of the body panel alignment. Check for bubbles and pitting on the paint and chrome. Open and close the tailgate or trunk and doors. Does it sound solid and well made? Will the design allow for easy loading of luggage, sporting goods, and groceries?
Be a Backseat Test Driver. Ask the salesperson to take you for a preliminary test drive. You can focus on the ride without the distraction of driving, and you're more likely to notice noise and overall comfort. And, of course, you can evaluate backseat room for future passengers.
Find Your Fit. Get in and try the car on for size. Check the leg room and visibility. How easy is it to adjust the seats? Are the controls easy to read, reach and use? Try all of the accessories and options, such as air conditioning, the sound system, and navigation aids.
On The Road. Drive the exact model of the car you want to purchase. Pick your own route for the test drive. If possible, pick a route that mirrors your daily driving routine. It's a good idea to test the car's ride quality and handling on a number of different road surfaces: city streets, hills, freeways, and winding roads.
Power. Test the engine's responsiveness in real-world conditions. Is there a smooth and constant delivery of power? Try merging onto the highway, passing, and stop-and-go city driving. Spend part of the test drive with the air conditioner on to see if it drains power.
Transmission. Look for smoothness and ease of operation. Listen for hesitation or straining.
Handling. Check steering responsiveness. Practice long turns and sharp turns. Safely practice sudden swerves and gradual lane changes.
Brakes. Your life could depend on your brakes, so put them to the test. Brake both softly and decisively to gain an accurate idea of the car's stopping distance.
Noise Level. At various speeds, listen for excessive engine, road, and wind noise. Check for squeaks and rattles coming from the interior and bodywork. Listen with the windows open and closed.
Parking. Parallel park to discover any blind spots or potential difficulty in identifying the corners of the car.
AAA recommends that consumers always have pre-owned vehicles inspected by a quality repair facility prior to purchasing. More than 8,000 AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities are located across North America.
As North America's largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides more than 52 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. AAA clubs can be visited on the Internet at AAA.com
Stage set for the Future of Mercury in Dentistry
U.S. State Department Announces Position on Mercury Fillings
The DOS will present their official position on the use of mercury in amalgam fillings and other medical devices at a stakeholder meeting on Monday, October 24th, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM at the DOS headquarters on 2201 C Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. Injured consumers and members of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) will attend the meeting to encourage a ban on mercury/silver dental amalgam fillings.
The U.S. government's monumental decision about mercury fillings is being made in preparation for the third session of the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC3), scheduled for later this month in Nairobi, Kenya. The committee was created with the specific purpose of developing a global, legally-binding instrument on mercury due to its significant negative effect on human health and the environment.
Mercury, a potent neurotoxin used in dental amalgam fillings, can damage the brain, kidneys, and nervous system, and is particularly harmful to the fetus and young children. Substantial, peer-reviewed, scientific evidence proving these dangers is documented in IAOMT's Petition for Reconsideration, which was filed with the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2009.
The hazards of mercury filings have also been addressed by other international groups. In 1991, the World Health Organization (WHO) concluded that dental amalgam is "the greatest source of mercury exposure for the general population, exceeding those from food and air."
In the United States, President Obama has recognized the hazards of mercury since 2008, and he emphasized the need to protect children from being exposed to mercury in his September 8, 2011 speech to Congress.
Yet, no actions to defend the American public from the known risks of mercury/silver dental fillings have been taken, although a recent submission by the U.S. to UNEP's Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee supports "further consideration of dental amalgam by the INC...with the goal of potential or gradual phasedown of dental amalgam and ongoing research for affordable, viable alternatives."
Such a position is unacceptable to Dr. David Kennedy, past president of IAOMT, who explains, "Using the excuse of alternative materials to further delay protecting the public is illogical because safe alternatives to mercury fillings have already been used for more than 20 years."
Leo Cashman, executive director and volunteer for the non-profit, consumer advocacy group Dental Amalgam Mercury Solutions (DAMS), agrees: "Dental amalgam is not viable when the costs of mercury poisoning to the individual, to families, and to the healthcare industry are considered."
"If we accept the current treaty language of UNEP, WHO, and the U.S. State Department, as well as their associated health declarations that I completely disagree with, the treaty will be about an 'infinite phase down' which won't even begin phasing down mercury/silver amalgam dental filling placement until 2020 the soonest, but more likely 2030, with requested exemptions by the FDI", says Dr. David Simone, who will be representing IAOMT at the DOS meeting. He reiterates, "The way it stands now, the UNEP Mercury Instrument is designed to keep placing mercury amalgams in all populations for another 20 years at least."
Freya Koss, President of the PA Coalition for Mercury-Free Dentistry, was diagnosed with myasthenia gravis after having an old mercury amalgam filling drilled out and replaced with a new one, and she will be at the meeting to insure that the DOS keeps mercury fillings in a proposed ban portion of the INC treaty.
Marie Flowers, President of Dental Amalgam Mercury Solutions (DAMS), experienced neurological symptoms following the removal of a mercury amalgam filling and will likewise be at the DOS meeting on Monday. Flowers has commented, "The U.S. lags behind countries such as Sweden, who initiated a mercury phase out in 1987, followed by Denmark and Norway, who banned dental mercury amalgam in 2009.
Nashville's Fox 17 anchor Stacy Case told her personal story of mercury poisoning to the FDA at a recent Town Meeting in San Francisco: "I had four amalgams unsafely removed and replaced with four shiny mercury fillings, and I got out of bed one day and couldn't walk." However, Case recovered from her diagnosis of multiple sclerosis after her fillings were safely removed. Her message to the U.S. government is clear: "Use your power and position for good. Please right this wrong!"
IAOMT and other groups are strongly urging the DOS to support the position of the U.S. Government as stated in February 2009 by Nancy Sutley, Chair of the White House Council on Environmental Quality, who announced, "Mercury poses a serious threat to public health in communities around the world...The United States will play a leading role in working with other nations to craft a global, legally binding agreement that will prevent the spread of mercury into the environment and improve the health of workers, pregnant women, and children throughout the world."
Monday's DOS meeting about the U.S. position on the INC treaty will set the international stage for the future of mercury in dentistry, which many hope will be the end of drilling a potent neurotoxin into the mouths of an unsuspecting international public.
Indian Summit to Discuss Key Investments in Banking Technology
DUBAI, UAE, October 23 - In the face of the rising competition, banks are currently investing
more in technology and as a result IT is considered a business enabler
rather than a support function. Banks are competitively working to enrich
banking experience in various channels while contributing to their bottom
line.
With consumers becoming more demanding, technology is now driving business in banks resulting in a shift from conventional banking to a variety of other platforms.
Banks are realising the growing importance of updating their legacy systems to enhance their service offering. In an interview with IQPC, Dharmaraj Ramakrishnan, Head of Core Banking Unit, ING Vysya Bank stressed "Progressive modernisation is the right way to go for cost-effective technology aiding IT. Key steps we follow are: identifying the legacy systems which are to be replaced; carrying out a cost benefit analysis and justifying the capital investment and finally ensuring deployment of new systems are aligned with business priorities - this will help in achieving a faster ROI."
ING Vysya will be sharing their success story at the Banking Technology India Summit 2011 being held in Mumbai on the 15th and 16th November 2011 at the Four Seasons Hotel. The Summit is being conducted by IQPC and brings together industry experts including Umesh Jain: CIO - Yes Bank , Rajnish Khare: Head of Remote Banking - Standard Chartered Bank, P.R Somasundaram: CEO & MD- The Lakshmi Villas Bank Ltd, Shrinath Bolloju: MD& COO- India Deutsche Bank, Sameer Ratolikar: CISO Risk Management- Bank of India, Munish Mittal: Executive Vice President IT- HDFC Bank, Jason O'Shaughnessy : Managing Director EMEA- Yodlee, Sudhakar Ramasubramanian: Managing Director - Aditya Birla Money Ltd - Aditya Birla Money Mart ltd and many more.
About IQPC
IQPC provides business executives around the world with tailored practical conferences, large scale events, topical seminars and in-house training programs, keeping them up-to-date with industry trends, technological developments and the regulatory landscape. IQPC's large scale conferences are market leading "must attend" events for their respective industries.
IQPC produces more than 1,500 events annually around the world, and continues to grow. Founded in 1973, IQPC now has offices in major cities across six continents including: Berlin, Bengalaru, Dubai, Johannesburg, London, Madrid, New York, Sao Paulo, Shanghai, Singapore, Sydney, and Toronto. IQPC leverages a global research base of best practices to produce an unrivalled portfolio of conferences.
With consumers becoming more demanding, technology is now driving business in banks resulting in a shift from conventional banking to a variety of other platforms.
Banks are realising the growing importance of updating their legacy systems to enhance their service offering. In an interview with IQPC, Dharmaraj Ramakrishnan, Head of Core Banking Unit, ING Vysya Bank stressed "Progressive modernisation is the right way to go for cost-effective technology aiding IT. Key steps we follow are: identifying the legacy systems which are to be replaced; carrying out a cost benefit analysis and justifying the capital investment and finally ensuring deployment of new systems are aligned with business priorities - this will help in achieving a faster ROI."
ING Vysya will be sharing their success story at the Banking Technology India Summit 2011 being held in Mumbai on the 15th and 16th November 2011 at the Four Seasons Hotel. The Summit is being conducted by IQPC and brings together industry experts including Umesh Jain: CIO - Yes Bank , Rajnish Khare: Head of Remote Banking - Standard Chartered Bank, P.R Somasundaram: CEO & MD- The Lakshmi Villas Bank Ltd, Shrinath Bolloju: MD& COO- India Deutsche Bank, Sameer Ratolikar: CISO Risk Management- Bank of India, Munish Mittal: Executive Vice President IT- HDFC Bank, Jason O'Shaughnessy : Managing Director EMEA- Yodlee, Sudhakar Ramasubramanian: Managing Director - Aditya Birla Money Ltd - Aditya Birla Money Mart ltd and many more.
About IQPC
IQPC provides business executives around the world with tailored practical conferences, large scale events, topical seminars and in-house training programs, keeping them up-to-date with industry trends, technological developments and the regulatory landscape. IQPC's large scale conferences are market leading "must attend" events for their respective industries.
IQPC produces more than 1,500 events annually around the world, and continues to grow. Founded in 1973, IQPC now has offices in major cities across six continents including: Berlin, Bengalaru, Dubai, Johannesburg, London, Madrid, New York, Sao Paulo, Shanghai, Singapore, Sydney, and Toronto. IQPC leverages a global research base of best practices to produce an unrivalled portfolio of conferences.
Lawsuit Against Corn Refining Industry Rejected
WASHINGTON, Oct. 23 - "The Corn Refiners Association (CRA) is
pleased that the court in the Western Sugar case has stricken the sugar
industry's state law claim under the California anti-SLAPP statute, which provides for early dismissals of meritless cases aimed at chilling freedom of expression," says Audrae Erickson,
President of the CRA. The sugar industry alleged that the CRA's
educational campaign to defend the merits of high fructose corn syrup
(HFCS) was deceptive. "To the contrary," Erickson said, "the
educational campaign is science based and supported by a wide variety of
medical and scientific experts."
SLAPP stands for "strategic lawsuit against public participation." The court on Friday, October 21, 2011, granted CRA's anti-SLAPP motion, and rejected the sugar industry's attempt to stop the CRA's speech concerning HFCS, finding that it was "protected under the anti-SLAPP statute" and that the sugar industry plaintiffs "have not met their burden to show a probability of prevailing on their unfair business competition claim," beyond their allegations.
As the prevailing party on its motion, under California's anti-SLAPP law the CRA is now entitled to recover its attorneys' fees and costs against the sugar industry members who brought suit.
Because the anti-SLAPP statute applies only to state law claims, the sugar industry's federal Lanham Act claim was not immediately dismissed against the CRA, at this early stage of the case, where the court was required to accept the allegations in the sugar industry's complaint. "It is important to note that this does not mean the sugar industry's allegations are true," Erickson said, "only that they have alleged enough to get to the next stage of the case on the Lanham Act claim."
Apart from the CRA, the court granted a motion to dismiss all of the individual companies who manufacture HFCS.
The CRA looks forward to demonstrating that Plaintiffs' remaining federal claim, like their dismissed state law claim, lacks merit beyond the bare allegations of the complaint. According to Erickson, "The sugar industry is attempting to shut down free speech rather compete in the marketplace."
SLAPP stands for "strategic lawsuit against public participation." The court on Friday, October 21, 2011, granted CRA's anti-SLAPP motion, and rejected the sugar industry's attempt to stop the CRA's speech concerning HFCS, finding that it was "protected under the anti-SLAPP statute" and that the sugar industry plaintiffs "have not met their burden to show a probability of prevailing on their unfair business competition claim," beyond their allegations.
As the prevailing party on its motion, under California's anti-SLAPP law the CRA is now entitled to recover its attorneys' fees and costs against the sugar industry members who brought suit.
Because the anti-SLAPP statute applies only to state law claims, the sugar industry's federal Lanham Act claim was not immediately dismissed against the CRA, at this early stage of the case, where the court was required to accept the allegations in the sugar industry's complaint. "It is important to note that this does not mean the sugar industry's allegations are true," Erickson said, "only that they have alleged enough to get to the next stage of the case on the Lanham Act claim."
Apart from the CRA, the court granted a motion to dismiss all of the individual companies who manufacture HFCS.
The CRA looks forward to demonstrating that Plaintiffs' remaining federal claim, like their dismissed state law claim, lacks merit beyond the bare allegations of the complaint. According to Erickson, "The sugar industry is attempting to shut down free speech rather compete in the marketplace."
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
The 10 Best Places to Retire in 2012
New list features places with an affordable cost of living and top-notch amenities
U.S. News worked with Onboard Informatics, the premier data services company for top tier organizations in real estate, media, and technology, to create a list of great places to retire in 10 key categories. "Everybody's got their own idea of the best place to live," said Brian Kelly, editor of U.S. News, "so we've created tools to make the search fun and useful. There are some great and unexpected choices."
Many of the categories focus on how to achieve the retirement lifestyle you want on a fixed income, such as the best place for water views on a budget (Traverse City, Mich.), an affordable mountain town for retirees (Boone, N.C.), and the best place to find affordable housing (Port Charlotte, Fla.). We also recognize Pittsburgh as a place that provides a great mix of affordability and amenities for retirees.
This list also includes a place with pleasant weather year-round (Flagstaff, Ariz.), a locale with unique recreation and cultural opportunities to explore (Santa Fe, N.M.), and a college town that is also friendly to retirees (Ithaca, N.Y.). Retirement is a period of life in which many people reinvent themselves, so we've included a great place to launch a second career (Lincoln, Neb.) or form a new relationship in a city with plenty of single people age 55 and older (Pittsfield, Mass.).
The U.S. News Best Places to Retire search tool provides extensive information for consumers considering relocating in retirement. The interactive search tool can help users find locations that best fit their individual lifestyles. Visitors can examine and sort through economic and quality-of-life data, such as housing prices, proximity to hospitals, and even the average temperature, to find a locale that best meets their needs.
The cities honored as T he 10 Best Places to Retire in 2012 are:
Pleasant year-round weather: Flagstaff, Ariz.
Affordable mountain town: Boone, N.C.
Water views on a budget: Traverse City, Mich.
Greenest place to retire: Walnut Creek, Calif.
A college town for retirees: Ithaca, N.Y.
Place to launch a second career: Lincoln, Neb.
Best mix of affordability and amenities: Pittsburgh
Best place for affordable housing: Port Charlotte, Fla.
Best place for single retirees: Pittsfield, Mass.
Best place for recreation and culture: Santa Fe
Wuzhou Changlian Offers Free Shiping to Worldwide Customers
SHENZHEN, China, Oct. 17, 2011 - Shenzhen Wuzhou Changlian International Trading Co
is pleased to announce a new promotion: Free shipping now available on
all orders over USD 250 for all customers worldwide.
Esmodshopping, the comprehensive website introduced by Wuzhou Changlian, offers a wide selection of dresses and fashionable jewelries. Now to help customers adjust to the frequently changing weather, they are introducing a series of healthcare products to help those with chronic illness, especially for little babies. In order to bring more pleasure to those female fashion lovers who enjoy special occasions, esmodshopping holds the activity.
As most products in esmodshopping are affordably priced, the company offers customers wholesale wedding dresses, along with discounted wedding accessories, including high heels and matching freshwater pearl jewelries. In addition, combinations of wedding dresses and freshwater pearl necklaces, or a taffeta A line corset dress and a pair of high heels can enjoy free shipping.
International trade has become a more and more popular trade channel to benefit both customers and sellers, while retail or wholesale from China plays an important role. Esmodshopping is just such a trading company specialized in designing unique models to lead fashion trends.
With the launching of promotional activity, more customers will be benefited to spend less and get more surprises. In the activity, the products and shipping time won't be affected because of affordable prices. Esmodshopping welcomes wholesalers in a friendly long term business relationship.
Esmodshopping, the comprehensive website introduced by Wuzhou Changlian, offers a wide selection of dresses and fashionable jewelries. Now to help customers adjust to the frequently changing weather, they are introducing a series of healthcare products to help those with chronic illness, especially for little babies. In order to bring more pleasure to those female fashion lovers who enjoy special occasions, esmodshopping holds the activity.
As most products in esmodshopping are affordably priced, the company offers customers wholesale wedding dresses, along with discounted wedding accessories, including high heels and matching freshwater pearl jewelries. In addition, combinations of wedding dresses and freshwater pearl necklaces, or a taffeta A line corset dress and a pair of high heels can enjoy free shipping.
International trade has become a more and more popular trade channel to benefit both customers and sellers, while retail or wholesale from China plays an important role. Esmodshopping is just such a trading company specialized in designing unique models to lead fashion trends.
With the launching of promotional activity, more customers will be benefited to spend less and get more surprises. In the activity, the products and shipping time won't be affected because of affordable prices. Esmodshopping welcomes wholesalers in a friendly long term business relationship.
Ten Things Parents Can Do To Make Halloween Safer
"The Mentalist" Actor Tim Kang Tells Parents How They Can Build Safety into Halloween This Year
ALEXANDRIA, Va., Oct. 17, 2011 - Halloween is one of the most exciting times of the year for children, but sometimes the most hectic for parents. Nearly 94 percent of children between the ages of four and twelve participate in Halloween activities each year. Tim Kang, actor from the hit CBS show The Mentalist has partnered with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) to help educate parents about what they should be telling their children to keep them safe. Parents need to take a moment to consider basic safety precautions that will make Halloween a safer night of fun.
"Child safety is vital year round, but Halloween is an especially important time for parents and children to pay extra attention to their surroundings and not let their guard down," said actor Tim Kang a spokesperson for NCMEC. "Parents need to exercise a few basic safety precautions to help ensure that Halloween is both fun and safe."
About the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children
The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established in 1984. Designated by Congress to serve as the nation's clearinghouse, the organization has operated the toll-free 24-hour national missing children's hotline which has handled more than 3,421,390 calls. It has assisted law enforcement in the recovery of more than 166,800 children. The organization's CyberTipline has handled more than 1,233,990 reports of child sexual exploitation and its Child Victim Identification Program has reviewed and analyzed more than 56,672,970 pornography images and videos. The organization works in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Justice's office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention.
About Tim Kang
Tim Kang can currently be seen on the hit CBS drama The Mentalist as straight-arrow investigator "Kimball Cho," a fan favorite on the show. The Mentalist won a 2009 People's Choice Award for "Favorite New TV Drama," and was nominated for a 2009 Television Critics Association Award for "Outstanding New Program of the Year." Other appearances on popular TV shows include recurring roles in CBS's The Unit and NBC's Third Watch and guest starring on The Office, The Ghost Whisperer, The Sopranos, Monk, Chappelle's Show, Law & Order: Criminal Intent and Law & Order: Trial By Jury. Tim was also seen in the films Rambo, The Forgotten, Two Weeks Notice and as the star of Mister Green.
ALEXANDRIA, Va., Oct. 17, 2011 - Halloween is one of the most exciting times of the year for children, but sometimes the most hectic for parents. Nearly 94 percent of children between the ages of four and twelve participate in Halloween activities each year. Tim Kang, actor from the hit CBS show The Mentalist has partnered with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) to help educate parents about what they should be telling their children to keep them safe. Parents need to take a moment to consider basic safety precautions that will make Halloween a safer night of fun.
- CHOOSE bright, flame-retardant costumes or add reflective tape to costumes and candy bags so children are easily seen in the dark. In addition, carry a glow stick or flashlight.
- PLAN a trick-or-treating route in familiar neighborhoods with well-lit streets. Avoid unfamiliar neighborhoods, streets that are isolated, or homes that are poorly lit inside or outside.
- NEVER send young children out alone. They should always be accompanied by a parent or another trusted adult. Older children should always travel in groups.
- ALWAYS walk younger children to the door to receive treats and don't let children enter a home unless you are with them.
- BE SURE children do not approach any vehicle, occupied or not, unless you are with them.
- DISCUSS basic pedestrian safety rules that children should use when walking to and from houses.
- CONSIDER organizing a home or community party as an alternative to "trick-or-treating."
- MAKE sure children know their home phone number and address in case you get separated. Teach children how to call 911 in an emergency.
- TEACH children to say "NO!" or "this is not my mother/father" in a loud voice if someone tries to get them to go somewhere, accept anything other than a treat, or leave with them. And teach them that they should make every effort to get away by kicking, screaming and resisting.
- REMIND children to remain alert and report suspicious incidents to parents and/or law enforcement.
"Child safety is vital year round, but Halloween is an especially important time for parents and children to pay extra attention to their surroundings and not let their guard down," said actor Tim Kang a spokesperson for NCMEC. "Parents need to exercise a few basic safety precautions to help ensure that Halloween is both fun and safe."
About the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children
The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established in 1984. Designated by Congress to serve as the nation's clearinghouse, the organization has operated the toll-free 24-hour national missing children's hotline which has handled more than 3,421,390 calls. It has assisted law enforcement in the recovery of more than 166,800 children. The organization's CyberTipline has handled more than 1,233,990 reports of child sexual exploitation and its Child Victim Identification Program has reviewed and analyzed more than 56,672,970 pornography images and videos. The organization works in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Justice's office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention.
About Tim Kang
Tim Kang can currently be seen on the hit CBS drama The Mentalist as straight-arrow investigator "Kimball Cho," a fan favorite on the show. The Mentalist won a 2009 People's Choice Award for "Favorite New TV Drama," and was nominated for a 2009 Television Critics Association Award for "Outstanding New Program of the Year." Other appearances on popular TV shows include recurring roles in CBS's The Unit and NBC's Third Watch and guest starring on The Office, The Ghost Whisperer, The Sopranos, Monk, Chappelle's Show, Law & Order: Criminal Intent and Law & Order: Trial By Jury. Tim was also seen in the films Rambo, The Forgotten, Two Weeks Notice and as the star of Mister Green.
Do Baby Products Prevent SIDS? FDA Says No
SILVER SPRING, Md., Oct. 17, 2011- The best thing you can do to lower the
chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is to place your baby on
his or her back to sleep, with nothing else in the crib or bassinet.
That's the recommendation of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which is working to prevent manufacturers of sleep products for babies from claiming that their use will prevent or lower the chance of SIDS. These products include infant positioners, mattresses, crib bedding, pillows, crib tents and baby monitors.
The agency has never approved a product to prevent SIDS—the unexplained death of a baby younger than age 1—and is asking manufacturers to stop marketing their products with these claims until they have received FDA clearance or approval, or to change their labeling to remove all medical claims.
Learn more about SIDS prevention...
That's the recommendation of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which is working to prevent manufacturers of sleep products for babies from claiming that their use will prevent or lower the chance of SIDS. These products include infant positioners, mattresses, crib bedding, pillows, crib tents and baby monitors.
The agency has never approved a product to prevent SIDS—the unexplained death of a baby younger than age 1—and is asking manufacturers to stop marketing their products with these claims until they have received FDA clearance or approval, or to change their labeling to remove all medical claims.
Learn more about SIDS prevention...
Britain's Top "40 Under 40" International Development Leaders Announced
LONDON, October 17, 2011 - Devex, the world's largest community of relief and development
professionals, today announces the top 40 under 40 international development
leaders based in London. They represent the next generation of leaders
helping to improve the quality of life for millions of people around the
world.
Honorees include a wide variety of professionals ranging from members of Parliament to private sector champions who are spearheading innovative approaches to global challenges from economic development and governance and to improved access to quality education and health care.
"The awardees comprise key international development leaders who are helping to transform the global development agenda - and most importantly, make a difference in the lives of millions around the world," said Devex President Raj Kumar.
Sponsored by Chevron Corporation (NYSE: CVX), one of the world's leading integrated energy companies, the Devex-led initiative highlights the importance of economic, social and infrastructure-based development as a key component of the prosperity of local businesses and communities.
"In today's economic climate, our collective commitment to economic opportunity, global health and education must assume more importance, not less," said Russ Yarrow, general manager of corporate affairs for Chevron. "At Chevron, we know that successful businesses, including ours, do best when they operate in healthy, prosperous communities. Each of these 40 individuals is contributing to the achievement of those goals."
The 40 individuals honored today were chosen by an independent selection committee that includes the head of the UK's leading global development think tank, the chief executive of one of the UK's largest international NGOs, and the senior executive responsible for global development at one of the world's largest software companies. Young leaders were chosen based upon their impact on development and their influence on the development agenda.
All honorees will be recognized at a reception held tonight at the Heron Tower in London and hosted by The Milken Institute. More information on the honorees and selection committee can be found on london40.devex.com [http://london40.devex.com ]. The complete list of the Devex "40 Under 40" International Development Leaders in London is as follows (in alphabetical order):
About Devex Devex is a social enterprise bringing efficiency to international development through recruiting and business information services. Our members find development projects, business and career advice, jobs - and professional connections - on devex.com. Founded in 2000, Devex serves a global community of 500,000 development professionals and 1,000 donors, companies and NGOs. With a mission to bring greater efficiency to international development, our global staff of more than 100 in five offices (London, Barcelona, Manila, Tokyo, and Washington) works to provide innovative products and services to address the needs of each member of our development community.
Honorees include a wide variety of professionals ranging from members of Parliament to private sector champions who are spearheading innovative approaches to global challenges from economic development and governance and to improved access to quality education and health care.
"The awardees comprise key international development leaders who are helping to transform the global development agenda - and most importantly, make a difference in the lives of millions around the world," said Devex President Raj Kumar.
Sponsored by Chevron Corporation (NYSE: CVX), one of the world's leading integrated energy companies, the Devex-led initiative highlights the importance of economic, social and infrastructure-based development as a key component of the prosperity of local businesses and communities.
"In today's economic climate, our collective commitment to economic opportunity, global health and education must assume more importance, not less," said Russ Yarrow, general manager of corporate affairs for Chevron. "At Chevron, we know that successful businesses, including ours, do best when they operate in healthy, prosperous communities. Each of these 40 individuals is contributing to the achievement of those goals."
The 40 individuals honored today were chosen by an independent selection committee that includes the head of the UK's leading global development think tank, the chief executive of one of the UK's largest international NGOs, and the senior executive responsible for global development at one of the world's largest software companies. Young leaders were chosen based upon their impact on development and their influence on the development agenda.
All honorees will be recognized at a reception held tonight at the Heron Tower in London and hosted by The Milken Institute. More information on the honorees and selection committee can be found on london40.devex.com [http://london40.devex.com ]. The complete list of the Devex "40 Under 40" International Development Leaders in London is as follows (in alphabetical order):
- Rushanara Ali, member of Parliament and shadow minister for
international development
- Rob Bailey, senior research fellow on energy, environment &
resource governance at the Royal Institute of International Affairs
- Rachael Barber, head of global community investment at Barclays
Corporate Affairs
- Laure Blanchard-Brunac, principal banker at the European Bank
for Reconstruction and Development
- Jasmine Burnley, global economic crisis advisor to Oxfam GB
- Karin Christiansen, managing director of Publish What You Fund
- Brendan Cox, director of policy and advocacy at Save the
Children UK
- Jo Cox, former director of the Maternal Mortality Campaign and
head of policy and advocacy at Oxfam GB
- Alex Evans, non-resident fellow and head of the program on
resource scarcity, climate change and multilateralism at New York
University's Center on International Cooperation
- Sally Faiz, global portfolio manager at The Children's
Investment Fund Foundation
- Liz Ford, deputy editor of global development at The Guardian
- Jonathan Glennie, research fellow at the Overseas Development
Institute's Centre for Aid and Public Expenditure
- Zac Goldsmith MP, member of Parliament
- Jesse Griffiths, coordinator of the Bretton Woods Project
- Kate Gross, CEO of the Africa Governance Initiative
- Peter Guest, UK business editor for The Huffington Post
- Louise James, Europe lead for Accenture Development Partnerships
- Nik Kafka, founder and managing director of Teach a Man to Fish
UK
- Henriette Kolb, CEO of The Cherie Blair Foundation for Women
- Christine Kolbe, governance, security and justice team manager
at Coffey International Development
- Anja Langenbucher, European government relations and public
policy lead for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
- Richard Leftley, president & CEO of MicroEnsure
- Eric Levine, CEO of Restless Development
- Alexander McLean, founder and director general of the African
Prisons Project
- Clare Melford, CEO of the International Business Leaders Forum
- Ben Mellor, head of the Iraq inquiry team at the UK Department
for International Development
- Matthew Mitro, founder & chairman of Indego Africa
- Rosemary Nuamah, senior policy officer for The Elders
- Truman Packard, lead economist at the World Bank
- Kathy Peach, head of external affairs, VSO
- Tom Rippin, founder and CEO, On Purpose
- Joel Roxburgh, head of sustainability, Vodafone
- Bernadette Sexton, practice leader of the public administration
and governance division, Maxwell Stamp
- Matthew Smith, principal advisor, KPMG
- Dr. Dhananjayan Sriskandarajah, interim director, The
Commonwealth Foundation
- Andy Sumner, research fellow, Institute of Development Studies
- Andy Wales, head of sustainable development, SABMiller
- Peter Williams, founder and executive director, ARCHIVE
- Ned Wills, director, Laureus Sport for Good Foundation
- Charlotte Wolff, corporate responsibility manager, ArcelorMittal
About Devex Devex is a social enterprise bringing efficiency to international development through recruiting and business information services. Our members find development projects, business and career advice, jobs - and professional connections - on devex.com. Founded in 2000, Devex serves a global community of 500,000 development professionals and 1,000 donors, companies and NGOs. With a mission to bring greater efficiency to international development, our global staff of more than 100 in five offices (London, Barcelona, Manila, Tokyo, and Washington) works to provide innovative products and services to address the needs of each member of our development community.
Friday, September 30, 2011
Teamsters, Community Leaders Rally Outside Ascension Health
Michigan Nurses Protest Ascension's Policies that Threaten Worker, Patient Safety
ST. LOUIS, Sept. 30, 2011- Registered nurses from Ascension Health's Genesys Regional Medical Center in Flint, Mich. rallied outside of Ascension Health's corporate headquarters in St. Louis today, where they protested cuts that would alter working conditions and impact direct patient care.
The nurses are members of Local 332 in Flint and were joined by advocates from Missouri Jobs with Justice and other community leaders.
"The nurses at Genesys see the care and safety of their patients as the highest priority, but the cuts in nursing and support staff are dramatically increasing their workloads. They are struggling to follow the Code of Ethics for Nurses, which states that nurses must strive to protect the health, safety and rights of their patients," said Nina Bugbee, President of Teamsters Local 332 in Flint. "The code of ethics also states that nurses must participate in improving conditions of employment conducive to the provision of quality health care. These RNs should be able to give feedback about changes to the delivery of care, but Ascension refuses to listen."
"We are here because we believe in dignity and quality patient care," said Martin Rafanan, co-chair of the Workers' Rights Board of Missouri Jobs with Justice. "Nurses must have a voice in the workplace. When we are most vulnerable and need care, we should count on our non-profit hospitals to be places where nurses are advocates for patients, where their voices are respected and where quality care is a shared goal."
This year's proposed cuts by Ascension Health come on the heels of earlier cuts Local 332 members successfully fought against. Last year, licensed nurses and technicians fought 10 months for a fair contract at Genesys. The hospital had wanted to cut their wages and eliminate the health care protections that had been promised to retired workers.
Founded in 1903, the Teamsters Union represents 1.4 million hardworking men and women throughout the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.
ST. LOUIS, Sept. 30, 2011- Registered nurses from Ascension Health's Genesys Regional Medical Center in Flint, Mich. rallied outside of Ascension Health's corporate headquarters in St. Louis today, where they protested cuts that would alter working conditions and impact direct patient care.
The nurses are members of Local 332 in Flint and were joined by advocates from Missouri Jobs with Justice and other community leaders.
"The nurses at Genesys see the care and safety of their patients as the highest priority, but the cuts in nursing and support staff are dramatically increasing their workloads. They are struggling to follow the Code of Ethics for Nurses, which states that nurses must strive to protect the health, safety and rights of their patients," said Nina Bugbee, President of Teamsters Local 332 in Flint. "The code of ethics also states that nurses must participate in improving conditions of employment conducive to the provision of quality health care. These RNs should be able to give feedback about changes to the delivery of care, but Ascension refuses to listen."
"We are here because we believe in dignity and quality patient care," said Martin Rafanan, co-chair of the Workers' Rights Board of Missouri Jobs with Justice. "Nurses must have a voice in the workplace. When we are most vulnerable and need care, we should count on our non-profit hospitals to be places where nurses are advocates for patients, where their voices are respected and where quality care is a shared goal."
This year's proposed cuts by Ascension Health come on the heels of earlier cuts Local 332 members successfully fought against. Last year, licensed nurses and technicians fought 10 months for a fair contract at Genesys. The hospital had wanted to cut their wages and eliminate the health care protections that had been promised to retired workers.
Founded in 1903, the Teamsters Union represents 1.4 million hardworking men and women throughout the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.
What Works in Teen Driver Safety
Grants
Available for High Schools to Implement these Effective Strategies
ST. PAUL, Minn. Sept. 30, 2011 - According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, traffic crashes remain the leading cause of death for teens in the United States. For seven years teens themselves, in partnership with their teachers and communities, have been working to change that staggering statistic through a program called Project Ignition.
Funded by State Farm® and coordinated by the National Youth Leadership Council®, Project Ignition helps students, teachers and communities address teen driver safety through service-learning. Grant applications are now being accepted so that more high schools can support their students in designing and leading awareness and engagement campaigns. Project Ignition is seeking applications by November 15, which utilize strategies students have found to be effective in motivating peers to change their driving behaviors:
3.Awareness activities like posters or buttons are most effective when combined with proven prevention strategies like advocacy to change or enforce laws. These are the types of classroom-based learning activities that students at Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley High School in Gibson City, Ill. have participated in to advocate for Illinois' stronger graduated drivers licensing laws, cellular phone ban in school zones and road construction areas and state-wide texting ban. "All of that legislation was instrumental in changing the driving behaviors of my peers. And, as students, it was a tremendous experience to help establish new laws that promote safer roadways in the State of Illinois and see first-hand that teens really can and do make a difference," said Joel Hood, a Project Ignition student there.
4. Indentifying and shaping normative behaviors in their communities is another effective strategy students have used to persuade their peers. Project Ignition students help their peers understand that most people do the right thing. Jaylea Falk, a student at Eureka High School in Eureka, Calif. said, "We have used kidsdata.org in California to show that most teens are not actually drinking and driving like most tend to think. Getting the real facts helps students further commit to doing the right thing." Project Ignition helps teens understand that most teens wear their seatbelt, most teens do not speed, most don't text while driving and this approach has proven to be powerful.
"Teens are the new generation with a strong voice. The more we continue to speak out about this issue the more people, young and old, will listen. We do have an impact on all ages," said Mock. Join in the effort to address teen driver safety through service-learning by visiting www.sfprojectignition.com for eligibility information, the application and tools to create a high-quality proposal. Twenty-five grants of $2,000 each will be given. For more information, contact Melissa Mitchell, Project Ignition National Program Coordinator at mmitchell@nylc.org or 1-888-856-7026. Applications are due November 15, 2011.
ST. PAUL, Minn. Sept. 30, 2011 - According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, traffic crashes remain the leading cause of death for teens in the United States. For seven years teens themselves, in partnership with their teachers and communities, have been working to change that staggering statistic through a program called Project Ignition.
Funded by State Farm® and coordinated by the National Youth Leadership Council®, Project Ignition helps students, teachers and communities address teen driver safety through service-learning. Grant applications are now being accepted so that more high schools can support their students in designing and leading awareness and engagement campaigns. Project Ignition is seeking applications by November 15, which utilize strategies students have found to be effective in motivating peers to change their driving behaviors:
- Experiences like all-school assemblies or mock crashes can and do motivate, but the impact is intensified when the experience is discussed among peers and merged with classroom curriculum. Students examine what they experienced, what it meant to them, and what they want to do about it. "In physics class a state highway patrolman explained the role of physics in car crashes and I truly realized the extent of the damage my decisions behind the wheel can create," said Shawn Smith, a Project Ignition student at Ridgemont High School, in Ridgeway, Ohio. Smith also now recognizes how physics concepts apply in the world.
3.Awareness activities like posters or buttons are most effective when combined with proven prevention strategies like advocacy to change or enforce laws. These are the types of classroom-based learning activities that students at Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley High School in Gibson City, Ill. have participated in to advocate for Illinois' stronger graduated drivers licensing laws, cellular phone ban in school zones and road construction areas and state-wide texting ban. "All of that legislation was instrumental in changing the driving behaviors of my peers. And, as students, it was a tremendous experience to help establish new laws that promote safer roadways in the State of Illinois and see first-hand that teens really can and do make a difference," said Joel Hood, a Project Ignition student there.
4. Indentifying and shaping normative behaviors in their communities is another effective strategy students have used to persuade their peers. Project Ignition students help their peers understand that most people do the right thing. Jaylea Falk, a student at Eureka High School in Eureka, Calif. said, "We have used kidsdata.org in California to show that most teens are not actually drinking and driving like most tend to think. Getting the real facts helps students further commit to doing the right thing." Project Ignition helps teens understand that most teens wear their seatbelt, most teens do not speed, most don't text while driving and this approach has proven to be powerful.
"Teens are the new generation with a strong voice. The more we continue to speak out about this issue the more people, young and old, will listen. We do have an impact on all ages," said Mock. Join in the effort to address teen driver safety through service-learning by visiting www.sfprojectignition.com for eligibility information, the application and tools to create a high-quality proposal. Twenty-five grants of $2,000 each will be given. For more information, contact Melissa Mitchell, Project Ignition National Program Coordinator at mmitchell@nylc.org or 1-888-856-7026. Applications are due November 15, 2011.
West Coast Chef Named Lamb Jam Master in National Cooking Competition
American Lamb Board Partners with Share Our Strength to Crown 2011 Lambassador
NEW YORK, Sept. 29, 2011 On September 25, the American Lamb Board, in partnership with Share Our Strength®, brought four culinary kings and their winning dishes from four U.S. cities to New York City for the ultimate baaa-ttle. Hosted by Food Network personality Amanda Freitag, Adam Mali of MarketBar in San Francisco, CA, was crowned the 2011 "Lamb Jam Master" by a panel of esteemed media judges for his Braised Lamb Shank with Lemon Stewed Cannellini Beans and Lavender-Mint Gremolata. More than 200 fans of lamb named Mark Bodinet of Copperleaf Restaurant in Seattle the "People's Choice" for his Grilled Lamb Shoulder Confit with Creamy Parsnips and Preserved Huckleberries."From San Francisco to New York, Chef Mali's dish took home top honors and we are thrilled to welcome him to the Lamb Jam Hall of Fame," said Megan Wortman, Executive Director of the American Lamb Board.
Fans of lamb wolfed down competing dishes from Jason Santos (Boston), John Critchley (Washington DC) and lambtastic tastes from local lamb lovers at The Meatball Shop, Pera Mediterranean Brasserie, Dickson's Farmstand Meats and Old Chatham Sheepherding Company.
Local beer and wine from Foggy Ridge Cider, Harpoon, Paso Robles and Washington Wines were paired with competing dishes as attendees savored sips of Jefferson's Bourbon, a "ridiculously small batch" bourbon from Louisville. A local artist got the baaa-ty started with pasture caricatures of guests and their flocks before lamb lovers counted sheep and created their own spice rubs.
As the national partner for the 2012 Lamb Jam tour, a percentage of proceeds from Lamb Jam Masters will benefit Share Our Strength®, a nonprofit organization that is ending childhood hunger in America by connecting children with the nutritious food they need to lead healthy, active lives.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Pittsburgh Area Companies Unite to Support Job Placement for Disabled Veterans
BNY Mellon and Aon host "Salute to America's Wounded Warriors," Promote Boots to Business Approach to Employment
PITTSBURGH, Sept. 28, 2011 - Many U.S. service men and women return from active duty only to become part of a growing group of unemployed veterans. A number of Pittsburgh area companies are uniting with organizations that support job placement for disabled veterans and help raise awareness of this growing concern.Earlier today, dozens of local veterans looking for careers in business met with more than 40 area companies at "Salute to America's Wounded Warriors," a day-long event hosted by BNY Mellon and Aon. General Richard B. Myers, Retired Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; BNY Mellon Chairman, President and CEO Gerald Hassell; and Aon President and CEO Greg Case led the program held at BNY Mellon Center in downtown Pittsburgh.
Attendees received training on conducting a successful job search from the outplacement firm of Lee Hecht Harrison and participated in a networking session with representatives and hiring managers from a wide range of industries. BNY Mellon also announced that it had made a $100,000 grant from its BNY Mellon Foundation of Southwestern Pennsylvania to support Operation Back Home, the Veterans Leadership Program's basic needs assistance program for veterans, service members, and their families.
"All of us should be very proud of the men and women serving our country and fighting for our freedoms," General Myers said. "Despite their unwavering courage, many of these men and women return home from duty only to become part of a growing group of unemployed and underemployed veterans that has reached dire levels."
"Our goal in joining with the Wounded Warrior Project, the Veterans Leadership Program of Western Pennsylvania and other members of the business community is to help veterans go from 'boots to business' by successfully transitioning into the private sector," said Gerald Hassell. "By helping skilled individuals who have sacrificed so much for us, we can give them a chance to achieve economic independence and help restore our communities along the way."
"Transitioning into the civilian workforce and developing a new sense of identity are powerful tools in the rehabilitation process for wounded warriors. We thank all of the Pittsburgh area businesses for assisting these brave men and women during their journey to discovering a new career path," said Greg Case.
"Wounded Warrior Project aims to make this the most successful and well-adjusted generation of veterans in our nation's history," stated Wounded Warrior Project Chief Program Officer Jeremy Chwat.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Statistics, the unemployment rate for veterans serving at any time since September 2001 was 11.5 percent in 2010. The jobless rate for veterans of all eras combined and U.S. civilians over the same period was 8.7 and 9.4 percent, respectively. Since the beginning of the Gulf War era in August 1990, more than 5 million veterans have served. Pennsylvania has a long and distinguished history of military service and a very large concentration of veterans; nearly one million veterans live in the Commonwealth, representing the 4th largest population of veterans within the U.S.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Tavis Smiley Foundation to Launch Parent Education Summits
Program to raise parents' awareness of learning challenges facing children
LOS ANGELES, Sept. 28, 2011 - The Tavis Smiley Foundation announced today it will host a series of parent education seminars nationwide to give parents tools and information on how they can ensure their child's success in learning.
The Too Important to Fail Parent Education Summits will kick off in Los Angeles on Saturday, October 29 with six other cities scheduled throughout spring 2012. These include: Philadelphia, Chicago, Washington, D.C., Atlanta, Houston, and Montgomery, Alabama.
Funding for the initiative is provided by the Open Society Foundations Campaign for Black Male Achievement (CBMA) and Hyundai Motor America. National program partners include the National Education Association.
This grassroots parents' engagement effort will inform parents and the community about educational initiatives and programs, family and school partnerships, and school district resources. The sessions will include learning strategies to support homework, planning summer learning activities, and the impacts of absenteeism as well as health and safety on learning.
Parents will learn how grade-level reading determines high school performance and what they can do if their child is not reading at grade level. A special emphasis will focus on the challenges facing African American boys. Research shows less than 50 percent of young Black males will graduate from high school and on average their 12th grade reading scores are significantly lower than those across every other racial and ethnic group.
"A well informed and empowered parent can make all the difference in the educational achievement of a child," said Shawn Dove, campaign manager for CBMA. "We are thrilled to partner with the Tavis Smiley Foundation to support this critical endeavor."
"Hyundai Motor America is pleased to support the Too Important To Fail Parent Education Summits as education is the best foundation for young people to succeed in an increasingly competitive and challenging national and global environment," says Zafar J. Brooks, director, Government Relations and Diversity Outreach Hyundai Motor America. "At Hyundai, we are committed to supporting those initiatives and activities that contribute to the continued robustness and success of our culture and society and we believe that this starts with our young people."
The Parent Education Summits are one part of a holistic effort to raise awareness and spark action by parents to become more involved in the education crisis, according to founder Tavis Smiley. Recently, Smiley's Too Important to Fail television documentary premiered on PBS examining the link between illiteracy and high school drop-out rates among African American boys.
"The enlightening conversations and information we were able to showcase through the documentary will now be shared with an even more important part of the puzzle – the parents who play a critical role as advocates for their children," said Smiley.
"Youth leadership development is the core work of the Tavis Smiley Foundation and an important pathway toward leadership success is education."
Through the interactive web portal, www.tooimportanttofail.com, summit attendees and the general public can learn more about the issues and engage in dialogue with organizations and constituents. Visitors can share ideas and vote on what they consider priorities through the use of social media.
All seminar sessions will be free and open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration information for the summits opens Oct. 1 and will be posted at www.tooimportanttofail.com and www.youthtoleaders.org.
ABOUT THE TAVIS SMILEY FOUNDATION
The Tavis Smiley Foundation was founded in 1999 to enlighten, encourage, and empower youth by providing leadership training that will promote and enhance the quality of life for themselves, their community and our world. Since its inception, more than 6,500 youth have participated in the Foundation's leadership workshops and conferences and it has awarded more than $500,000 in college scholarships. For more information, visit www.youthtoleaders.org.
ABOUT THE OPEN SOCIETY FOUNDATIONS
Active in more than 70 countries, the Open Society Foundations work to build vibrant and tolerant democracies whose governments are accountable to their citizens. Working with local communities, the Open Society Foundations support justice and human rights, freedom of expression, and access to public health and education.
ABOUT HYUNDAI
A global company with U.S. headquarters in Costa Mesa, CA, Hyundai is committed to supporting projects, initiatives and activities that champion diversity, make a difference in communities across the country and contribute to the American cultural landscape. This commitment is woven into the fabric and foundation of the organization. The company's $1.6 billion plant in Montgomery, Alabama (Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama, LLC) employs more than 2,500 people and is one of the most advanced assembly plants in North America. Additionally, more than 78 suppliers have located businesses throughout North America to support Hyundai's plant. Altogether, these suppliers have created more than 6,000 additional jobs with a combined capital investment of $500 million. After more than 24 years in the U.S. automobile market and with "America's Best Warranty," Hyundai continues to reinforce its commitment to sell innovative, high-quality vehicles at affordable prices.
LOS ANGELES, Sept. 28, 2011 - The Tavis Smiley Foundation announced today it will host a series of parent education seminars nationwide to give parents tools and information on how they can ensure their child's success in learning.
The Too Important to Fail Parent Education Summits will kick off in Los Angeles on Saturday, October 29 with six other cities scheduled throughout spring 2012. These include: Philadelphia, Chicago, Washington, D.C., Atlanta, Houston, and Montgomery, Alabama.
Funding for the initiative is provided by the Open Society Foundations Campaign for Black Male Achievement (CBMA) and Hyundai Motor America. National program partners include the National Education Association.
This grassroots parents' engagement effort will inform parents and the community about educational initiatives and programs, family and school partnerships, and school district resources. The sessions will include learning strategies to support homework, planning summer learning activities, and the impacts of absenteeism as well as health and safety on learning.
Parents will learn how grade-level reading determines high school performance and what they can do if their child is not reading at grade level. A special emphasis will focus on the challenges facing African American boys. Research shows less than 50 percent of young Black males will graduate from high school and on average their 12th grade reading scores are significantly lower than those across every other racial and ethnic group.
"A well informed and empowered parent can make all the difference in the educational achievement of a child," said Shawn Dove, campaign manager for CBMA. "We are thrilled to partner with the Tavis Smiley Foundation to support this critical endeavor."
"Hyundai Motor America is pleased to support the Too Important To Fail Parent Education Summits as education is the best foundation for young people to succeed in an increasingly competitive and challenging national and global environment," says Zafar J. Brooks, director, Government Relations and Diversity Outreach Hyundai Motor America. "At Hyundai, we are committed to supporting those initiatives and activities that contribute to the continued robustness and success of our culture and society and we believe that this starts with our young people."
The Parent Education Summits are one part of a holistic effort to raise awareness and spark action by parents to become more involved in the education crisis, according to founder Tavis Smiley. Recently, Smiley's Too Important to Fail television documentary premiered on PBS examining the link between illiteracy and high school drop-out rates among African American boys.
"The enlightening conversations and information we were able to showcase through the documentary will now be shared with an even more important part of the puzzle – the parents who play a critical role as advocates for their children," said Smiley.
"Youth leadership development is the core work of the Tavis Smiley Foundation and an important pathway toward leadership success is education."
Through the interactive web portal, www.tooimportanttofail.com, summit attendees and the general public can learn more about the issues and engage in dialogue with organizations and constituents. Visitors can share ideas and vote on what they consider priorities through the use of social media.
All seminar sessions will be free and open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration information for the summits opens Oct. 1 and will be posted at www.tooimportanttofail.com and www.youthtoleaders.org.
ABOUT THE TAVIS SMILEY FOUNDATION
The Tavis Smiley Foundation was founded in 1999 to enlighten, encourage, and empower youth by providing leadership training that will promote and enhance the quality of life for themselves, their community and our world. Since its inception, more than 6,500 youth have participated in the Foundation's leadership workshops and conferences and it has awarded more than $500,000 in college scholarships. For more information, visit www.youthtoleaders.org.
ABOUT THE OPEN SOCIETY FOUNDATIONS
Active in more than 70 countries, the Open Society Foundations work to build vibrant and tolerant democracies whose governments are accountable to their citizens. Working with local communities, the Open Society Foundations support justice and human rights, freedom of expression, and access to public health and education.
ABOUT HYUNDAI
A global company with U.S. headquarters in Costa Mesa, CA, Hyundai is committed to supporting projects, initiatives and activities that champion diversity, make a difference in communities across the country and contribute to the American cultural landscape. This commitment is woven into the fabric and foundation of the organization. The company's $1.6 billion plant in Montgomery, Alabama (Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama, LLC) employs more than 2,500 people and is one of the most advanced assembly plants in North America. Additionally, more than 78 suppliers have located businesses throughout North America to support Hyundai's plant. Altogether, these suppliers have created more than 6,000 additional jobs with a combined capital investment of $500 million. After more than 24 years in the U.S. automobile market and with "America's Best Warranty," Hyundai continues to reinforce its commitment to sell innovative, high-quality vehicles at affordable prices.
Increased Risk of Blood Clots with Certain Birth Control Pills
PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 28, 2011 - On Monday, the United States Food and Drug
Administration ("FDA") said its primary results of an agency funded
study suggest a 1.5 fold increase risk of blood clots for women who use
drospirenone-containing birth control products, such as Yaz and Yasmin.
The safety of Yaz and Yasmin is the subject of approximately 2,000 lawsuits filed in Pennsylvania before Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas Judge Sandra Mazer Moss, Coordinating Judge of the Complex Litigation Center. Another 7,110 lawsuits are pending in federal court before the Honorable Judge David R. Herndon, who oversees the federal multidistrict litigation (MDL).
The lawsuits allege that Yaz and Yasmin have risks beyond those of traditional birth control pills and that Bayer over-promoted the drug without disclosing the higher risks. Bayer was warned by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), in the fall of 2008, that its television advertisements were misleading and did not disclose the additional risks.
The FDA announced through its website that, "initial data from an FDA-funded epidemiologic study exploring the association of blood clots with several different hormonal contraceptive products, including levonorgestrel-containing contraceptives, appear consistent with results from the 2009 and 2011 published studies. Although FDA's review is ongoing, the preliminary data from the FDA-funded study are consistent with an approximately 1.5-fold increase in the risk of blood clots for users of drospirenone-containing contraceptives compared to users of other hormonal contraceptives."
Judge Moss appointed three Pennsylvania lawyers as Liaison Counsel for the plaintiffs, including Michael M. Weinkowitz of Levin, Fishbein, Sedran & Berman, Philadelphia; Daniel N. Gallucci of RodaNast, P.C., Lancaster, and Rosemary Pinto of Feldman & Pinto, Philadelphia. Dianne M. Nast, RodaNast, P.C. was appointed Pennsylvania Federal-State Liaison Counsel by the Honorable David R. Herndon.
The safety of Yaz and Yasmin is the subject of approximately 2,000 lawsuits filed in Pennsylvania before Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas Judge Sandra Mazer Moss, Coordinating Judge of the Complex Litigation Center. Another 7,110 lawsuits are pending in federal court before the Honorable Judge David R. Herndon, who oversees the federal multidistrict litigation (MDL).
The lawsuits allege that Yaz and Yasmin have risks beyond those of traditional birth control pills and that Bayer over-promoted the drug without disclosing the higher risks. Bayer was warned by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), in the fall of 2008, that its television advertisements were misleading and did not disclose the additional risks.
The FDA announced through its website that, "initial data from an FDA-funded epidemiologic study exploring the association of blood clots with several different hormonal contraceptive products, including levonorgestrel-containing contraceptives, appear consistent with results from the 2009 and 2011 published studies. Although FDA's review is ongoing, the preliminary data from the FDA-funded study are consistent with an approximately 1.5-fold increase in the risk of blood clots for users of drospirenone-containing contraceptives compared to users of other hormonal contraceptives."
Judge Moss appointed three Pennsylvania lawyers as Liaison Counsel for the plaintiffs, including Michael M. Weinkowitz of Levin, Fishbein, Sedran & Berman, Philadelphia; Daniel N. Gallucci of RodaNast, P.C., Lancaster, and Rosemary Pinto of Feldman & Pinto, Philadelphia. Dianne M. Nast, RodaNast, P.C. was appointed Pennsylvania Federal-State Liaison Counsel by the Honorable David R. Herndon.
Proposed Airline Taxes Will Eliminate Jobs, Force Higher Fares and Reduce Service
WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2011 - The Air Transport Association of America
(ATA), the industry trade organization for the leading U.S. airlines,
today called on members of Congress to reject President Obama's plan to
impose $3.5 billion annually in new taxes
on airlines and their passengers to pay off the country's budget
deficit. If the airline industry is burdened with billions of dollars in
new taxes, ATA warned that its members will have no choice but to raise
fares or reduce service, which will mean fewer jobs.
"Airlines are the physical Internet, connecting people, products and the world, driving the global economy and creating millions of jobs. To further burden this already financially challenged industry is both illogical and a job destroyer. The results will be devastating to the U.S. economy," said ATA CEO and President Nicholas E. Calio in a speech to the International Aviation Club of Washington.
"The U.S. government continues to use the airline industry as a cash cow, rather than seeing airlines as a growth enabler and understanding the strategic nature of aviation and what it takes to support one of our country's most critical industries," Calio said.
Today, federal taxes and fees in the United States constitute $61, or 20 percent, of the cost of a typical $300 domestic round-trip ticket, higher than taxes paid for alcohol, tobacco or guns. The overall federal aviation tax burden in the United States has tripled since 1972. "We are saddled with tax and regulatory mandates and restrictions that are unheard of for other industries," Calio said.
Calio offered a global perspective and compared increasingly punitive U.S. government policies with other countries that view aviation as a strategic asset and work cooperatively with airlines to ensure successful growth. "Governments in China, Brazil, India and the Middle East understand the competitive necessity and opportunity a vibrant aviation system provides," Calio said.
Rather than further taxing overburdened airline passengers, ATA urged Congress to focus its attention on supporting a National Airline Policy. "We are ready and willing to work collaboratively with the U.S. Government on our nation's priorities for the future, using all the good work that has already been done. We need an airline policy that will treat our airlines like the global businesses they are, and enable them to operate as such," Calio said.
ABOUT ATA
Annually, commercial aviation helps drive more than $1 trillion in U.S. economic activity and more than 10 million U.S. jobs. ATA airline members and their affiliates transport more than 90 percent of all U.S. airline passenger and cargo traffic.
"Airlines are the physical Internet, connecting people, products and the world, driving the global economy and creating millions of jobs. To further burden this already financially challenged industry is both illogical and a job destroyer. The results will be devastating to the U.S. economy," said ATA CEO and President Nicholas E. Calio in a speech to the International Aviation Club of Washington.
"The U.S. government continues to use the airline industry as a cash cow, rather than seeing airlines as a growth enabler and understanding the strategic nature of aviation and what it takes to support one of our country's most critical industries," Calio said.
Today, federal taxes and fees in the United States constitute $61, or 20 percent, of the cost of a typical $300 domestic round-trip ticket, higher than taxes paid for alcohol, tobacco or guns. The overall federal aviation tax burden in the United States has tripled since 1972. "We are saddled with tax and regulatory mandates and restrictions that are unheard of for other industries," Calio said.
Calio offered a global perspective and compared increasingly punitive U.S. government policies with other countries that view aviation as a strategic asset and work cooperatively with airlines to ensure successful growth. "Governments in China, Brazil, India and the Middle East understand the competitive necessity and opportunity a vibrant aviation system provides," Calio said.
Rather than further taxing overburdened airline passengers, ATA urged Congress to focus its attention on supporting a National Airline Policy. "We are ready and willing to work collaboratively with the U.S. Government on our nation's priorities for the future, using all the good work that has already been done. We need an airline policy that will treat our airlines like the global businesses they are, and enable them to operate as such," Calio said.
ABOUT ATA
Annually, commercial aviation helps drive more than $1 trillion in U.S. economic activity and more than 10 million U.S. jobs. ATA airline members and their affiliates transport more than 90 percent of all U.S. airline passenger and cargo traffic.
Americans Favor Investment in Community and Home-Based Health Care
WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2011 - In mid September, Harris Interactive polled
more than 2,000 adults about federal spending priorities for health care
and which types of Medicare spending cuts they would favor, if cuts
were necessary to reduce the budget deficit.
Nearly four out of five Americans (79 percent) said the federal government should strengthen patients' access to home medical equipment and services, according to the online survey. Most Americans (61 percent) said they favor investment in community- or home-based care to improve cost-effective health care. The online survey was conducted on behalf of the American Association for Homecare between September 13 and September 15, 2011.
Tyler Wilson, president of the American Association for Homecare, commented, "These findings underscore the fact that home and community-based care is recognized as part of the solution to the nation's health care challenges. Home medical equipment and services and other forms of home-based care help to reduce time spent in more expensive institutional settings, and this type of care allows millions of Americans to remain safe and independent in their own homes. And as we saw during Hurricane Irene, providers of oxygen therapy and other types of home medical equipment and services are first-responders during emergencies. We urge Congress and the Obama Administration to preserve and strengthen the nation's infrastructure for providing homecare."
Survey Results
Asked whether the federal government should "strengthen access to home medical equipment and services " given its potential to reduce hospital length of stay and healthcare costs, respondents replied:
Asked " Where should the U.S. government invest the most money to improve health care and cost-effective delivery of care? " respondents replied:
Given four choices for ways the government might cut Medicare spending to help reduce the budget deficit , respondents selected:
Wilson commented, "The continuing, disproportionate cuts to Medicare reimbursement for home medical equipment and services only weaken the safety net that homecare providers bring to the nation's healthcare system when we should be encouraging more home-based care to help control spending."
Methodology
This survey was conducted online within the United States by Harris Interactive on behalf of American Association for Homecare between September 13 and 15, 2011 via the QuickQuerySM online omnibus service among 2,028 U.S. adults age 18+.
Results were also weighted as needed to reflect the composition of the U.S. adult population by age, sex, race/ethnicity, education, region and household income.
Nearly four out of five Americans (79 percent) said the federal government should strengthen patients' access to home medical equipment and services, according to the online survey. Most Americans (61 percent) said they favor investment in community- or home-based care to improve cost-effective health care. The online survey was conducted on behalf of the American Association for Homecare between September 13 and September 15, 2011.
Tyler Wilson, president of the American Association for Homecare, commented, "These findings underscore the fact that home and community-based care is recognized as part of the solution to the nation's health care challenges. Home medical equipment and services and other forms of home-based care help to reduce time spent in more expensive institutional settings, and this type of care allows millions of Americans to remain safe and independent in their own homes. And as we saw during Hurricane Irene, providers of oxygen therapy and other types of home medical equipment and services are first-responders during emergencies. We urge Congress and the Obama Administration to preserve and strengthen the nation's infrastructure for providing homecare."
Survey Results
Asked whether the federal government should "strengthen access to home medical equipment and services " given its potential to reduce hospital length of stay and healthcare costs, respondents replied:
- Agree (79 percent);
- Disagree (11 percent);
- Not Sure (9 percent).
Asked " Where should the U.S. government invest the most money to improve health care and cost-effective delivery of care? " respondents replied:
- Community health clinics (37 percent);
- Patients' homes (24 percent);
- Hospitals (23 percent); and
- Doctors' offices (15 percent).
Given four choices for ways the government might cut Medicare spending to help reduce the budget deficit , respondents selected:
- Raising the premiums high income Medicare recipients have to pay (59 percent);
- Raising the age people start receiving Medicare benefits (24 percent);
- Cutting Medicare spending on home medical equipment such as oxygen, wheelchairs, and other equipment and services in their homes (9 percent); and
- Raising the premiums all Medicare recipients have to pay (9 percent).
Wilson commented, "The continuing, disproportionate cuts to Medicare reimbursement for home medical equipment and services only weaken the safety net that homecare providers bring to the nation's healthcare system when we should be encouraging more home-based care to help control spending."
Methodology
This survey was conducted online within the United States by Harris Interactive on behalf of American Association for Homecare between September 13 and 15, 2011 via the QuickQuerySM online omnibus service among 2,028 U.S. adults age 18+.
Results were also weighted as needed to reflect the composition of the U.S. adult population by age, sex, race/ethnicity, education, region and household income.
Teamsters Protest Celebrity Gala at Met Museum
Art Handlers Demand Met and Sotheby's Board Members 'Stop The Discrimination'
NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2011 - Professional art handlers and their supporters protested in front of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's annual diversity-themed gala yesterday. Protestors called on museum board members to end an eight-week-long lockout of professional art handlers at Sotheby's Auction House.
Despite making record profits of more than $680 million in gross profit last year, the auction house has locked out its staff of 43 art handlers, most of who are minorities. Sotheby's wants to replace its longtime, dedicated art handlers with replacement workers.
Metropolitan Museum board members Michel David-Weill and Carroll Petrie serve on the board of advisors at Sotheby's. The protesters distributed handbills that read, "Michel David-Weill: Stop The Discrimination" and "What's Gone Wrong at the Met?"
"Throwing hard-working African-American and Latino workers out on the street without paychecks is the wrong way to celebrate diversity," said Jason Ide, President of Teamsters Local 814. Local 814 represents the art handlers at Sotheby's.
Sotheby's management continues to insist on eliminating retirement for current employees and eliminating benefits and union protections for all new employees.
"It's like they're trying to take us back to the 1950s," said forty-two year art handler Sim Jones. "This has always been a dignified job that you could be proud of. It looks like they're trying to take that away."
NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2011 - Professional art handlers and their supporters protested in front of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's annual diversity-themed gala yesterday. Protestors called on museum board members to end an eight-week-long lockout of professional art handlers at Sotheby's Auction House.
Despite making record profits of more than $680 million in gross profit last year, the auction house has locked out its staff of 43 art handlers, most of who are minorities. Sotheby's wants to replace its longtime, dedicated art handlers with replacement workers.
Metropolitan Museum board members Michel David-Weill and Carroll Petrie serve on the board of advisors at Sotheby's. The protesters distributed handbills that read, "Michel David-Weill: Stop The Discrimination" and "What's Gone Wrong at the Met?"
"Throwing hard-working African-American and Latino workers out on the street without paychecks is the wrong way to celebrate diversity," said Jason Ide, President of Teamsters Local 814. Local 814 represents the art handlers at Sotheby's.
Sotheby's management continues to insist on eliminating retirement for current employees and eliminating benefits and union protections for all new employees.
"It's like they're trying to take us back to the 1950s," said forty-two year art handler Sim Jones. "This has always been a dignified job that you could be proud of. It looks like they're trying to take that away."
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Price too High? Budget Tight? Negotiate for a Better Deal
WINSTON-SALEM, N.C., Sept. 24 - According to the Federal Reserve, economic
growth remains slow and signs point to continuing weakness. Unemployment
rates remain elevated, and household spending has been increasing at
only a modest pace. While this may affect your household budgeting, it
could also work in your favor. Charles Lankau, a business professor and expert in negotiation at Wake Forest University, says in this economy, consumers should be assertive when shopping for just about everything.
These days retailers and service providers are willing to negotiate to get your business, says Lankau. "As a consumer in today's economy, people need to ask themselves, 'Am I about to spend some money?' If the answer is 'yes,' negotiating is almost always appropriate. Price, terms, perks or extras--most of the time they are there if you just ask."
For those new to bargaining, Lankau offers the following tips:
Give yourself permission to negotiate. Bargaining is one of many valuable budget-stretching tools available. Use it.
Focus on the result, not on any misplaced embarrassment for asking. Think of how good it will feel if you get something for your efforts. Even if you are successful, it's a win-win situation. In most cases, the seller will still be making a profit.
Touch a chord. Choose your words carefully to reach the emotional side of the person you are dealing with, for example: 'I'm just not sure I can afford this. Can you do any better?' Practice different approaches in the car to see how they sound.
Practice. Just like in sales, keep trying, and your 'ask' will improve.
Track your results. Keep a note card in your glove box and jot down every time you purchase an item for less than the asking price. It adds up! Seeing your savings grow is a great motivator.
Lankau says large purchases, like cars and homes, or competitive services for television or telephone, are expenses where people expect to negotiate, but deals can also be found in retail shops. "My mother never hesitated to point out a flaw, if there was one, in a blouse or sweater, and she almost always received at least a ten percent discount."
These days retailers and service providers are willing to negotiate to get your business, says Lankau. "As a consumer in today's economy, people need to ask themselves, 'Am I about to spend some money?' If the answer is 'yes,' negotiating is almost always appropriate. Price, terms, perks or extras--most of the time they are there if you just ask."
For those new to bargaining, Lankau offers the following tips:
Give yourself permission to negotiate. Bargaining is one of many valuable budget-stretching tools available. Use it.
Focus on the result, not on any misplaced embarrassment for asking. Think of how good it will feel if you get something for your efforts. Even if you are successful, it's a win-win situation. In most cases, the seller will still be making a profit.
Touch a chord. Choose your words carefully to reach the emotional side of the person you are dealing with, for example: 'I'm just not sure I can afford this. Can you do any better?' Practice different approaches in the car to see how they sound.
Practice. Just like in sales, keep trying, and your 'ask' will improve.
Track your results. Keep a note card in your glove box and jot down every time you purchase an item for less than the asking price. It adds up! Seeing your savings grow is a great motivator.
Lankau says large purchases, like cars and homes, or competitive services for television or telephone, are expenses where people expect to negotiate, but deals can also be found in retail shops. "My mother never hesitated to point out a flaw, if there was one, in a blouse or sweater, and she almost always received at least a ten percent discount."
Friday, September 23, 2011
Walmart to Generate Solar Energy
Walmart's solar power initiative will total more than 130 stores by the end of 2013; Adds hundreds of jobs through partnership with California-based SolarCity
WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif., Sept. 23 - Walmart today announced its plan to install solar panels on up to 60 additional stores in California, expanding the company's solar portfolio to more than 75 percent of its stores in the state, making California the first state in the nation where Walmart has devoted this level of commitment to renewable energy."California presents a great opportunity for Walmart to make significant progress toward our sustainability goals by installing solar power on more than 130 store rooftops throughout the state," said Kim Saylors-Laster, Walmart vice president of energy. "Walmart has reduced energy expenses by more than a million dollars through our solar program, allowing us to pass these savings on to our customers in the form of everyday low prices."
When complete, Walmart's total solar commitment in California is expected to:
- Generate up to 70 million kilowatt hours of clean, renewable energy per year, which is the equivalent of powering more than 5,400 homes*;
- Avoid producing more than 21,700 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year, which is the equivalent of taking approximately 4,100 cars off the road*; and
- Provide 20 to 30 percent of each facility's total electric needs.
"Walmart's effort to expand and accelerate its solar power initiative program here in California demonstrates their commitment to sustainability. These kinds of projects create jobs, reduce costs for businesses by lowering power bills, and protect the environment," said Mary D. Nichols, Chair of the California Air Resources Board. "We appreciate Walmart's leadership and encourage other businesses to follow Walmart's lead."
"Walmart's commitment to renewable energy in California is commendable," said Gwen Ruta, vice president for corporate partnerships at Environmental Defense Fund. "These projects are a win-win for the environment and our economy, and help move our country toward a cleaner energy future."
"Walmart has undertaken one of the most ambitious solar initiatives of any company in the U.S., and tripled the scale of its initial project with us," added Lyndon Rive, SolarCity's CEO. "Walmart is setting an example that far more companies in the U.S. can follow; it is possible for many businesses to pay less for solar power than they currently pay for electricity."
Walmart's investment in solar power is anticipated to create hundreds of jobs in California through its partnership with SolarCity, which will own, install and maintain the new solar power systems. The San Mateo, Calif.-based company has added more than 500 new full-time jobs since it initiated its first Walmart solar project, and expects to hire hundreds more before the end of the year.
"Our solar efforts in California have proven to be a great way for Walmart to build our renewable energy program," said Mack Wyckoff, senior manager of renewable energy at Walmart. "We are confident that we will continue to grow our solar energy program in the U.S. and around the world because of the initial success we have had in California."
Scholarship for Outstanding Aspiring Journalists
Sponsored by The Press Club of Western Pennsylvania
PITTSBURGH, Sept. 23 - The Press Club of Western Pennsylvania is taking applications for its sixth annual $5,000 scholarship awarded to aspiring journalists.
The award is designed to encourage outstanding collegiate journalism students in print and broadcasting.
The scholarship will be awarded in May 2012 in Pittsburgh at the annual Golden Quills Awards Dinner sponsored by The Press Club.
Candidates must be enrolled in an accredited college or university for at least two years. They must be able to demonstrate why they should receive the award. Their primary residence must be in one of the 29 counties of Western Pennsylvania (see list below).
The scholarship money will be credited to the winner's account at their university or college. The winner also will receive a plaque in recognition of the award.
Deadline for applications is January 13, 2012. The scholarship committee will review applications and select finalists. The winner will be notified by April 15.
An application can be downloaded from www.westernpapressclub.org or contact The Press Club of Western Pennsylvania at Engineers' Building, 337 Fourth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, or (412) 281-7778, or pressclubwpa@yahoo.com.
For further information contact Senior Deputy Managing Editor Rick Monti of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, 512 Martindale Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, 412-380-5638 or rmonti@tribweb.com.
The Press Club of Western Pennsylvania is a nonprofit organization comprising news media and public relations professionals, community leaders, academicians and other professionals devoted to first-rate communication. Members of The Press Club are dedicated to raising the quality of public discourse in Western Pennsylvania, keeping the region vital and relevant. It provides a setting, atmosphere, and programming that aim to further communication among media-related professionals and interested members of the general public. Encouraging and supporting journalism students in the region is also a priority. For membership information, contact The Press Club at (412) 281-7778.
Press Club Counties: Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Bedford, Blair, Butler, Cambria, Cameron, Centre, Clarion, Clearfield, Crawford, Elk, Erie, Fayette, Forest, Greene, Huntingdon, Indiana, Jefferson, Lawrence, McKean, Mercer, Potter, Somerset, Venango, Warren, Washington, Westmoreland
PITTSBURGH, Sept. 23 - The Press Club of Western Pennsylvania is taking applications for its sixth annual $5,000 scholarship awarded to aspiring journalists.
The award is designed to encourage outstanding collegiate journalism students in print and broadcasting.
The scholarship will be awarded in May 2012 in Pittsburgh at the annual Golden Quills Awards Dinner sponsored by The Press Club.
Candidates must be enrolled in an accredited college or university for at least two years. They must be able to demonstrate why they should receive the award. Their primary residence must be in one of the 29 counties of Western Pennsylvania (see list below).
The scholarship money will be credited to the winner's account at their university or college. The winner also will receive a plaque in recognition of the award.
Deadline for applications is January 13, 2012. The scholarship committee will review applications and select finalists. The winner will be notified by April 15.
An application can be downloaded from www.westernpapressclub.org or contact The Press Club of Western Pennsylvania at Engineers' Building, 337 Fourth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, or (412) 281-7778, or pressclubwpa@yahoo.com.
For further information contact Senior Deputy Managing Editor Rick Monti of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, 512 Martindale Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, 412-380-5638 or rmonti@tribweb.com.
The Press Club of Western Pennsylvania is a nonprofit organization comprising news media and public relations professionals, community leaders, academicians and other professionals devoted to first-rate communication. Members of The Press Club are dedicated to raising the quality of public discourse in Western Pennsylvania, keeping the region vital and relevant. It provides a setting, atmosphere, and programming that aim to further communication among media-related professionals and interested members of the general public. Encouraging and supporting journalism students in the region is also a priority. For membership information, contact The Press Club at (412) 281-7778.
Press Club Counties: Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Bedford, Blair, Butler, Cambria, Cameron, Centre, Clarion, Clearfield, Crawford, Elk, Erie, Fayette, Forest, Greene, Huntingdon, Indiana, Jefferson, Lawrence, McKean, Mercer, Potter, Somerset, Venango, Warren, Washington, Westmoreland
Tentative Seniority List: Southwest Airlines and AirTran Pilots Agreed
Tentative Agreement on the Integration of the Two Groups' Seniority Lists Headed to Members of Both Pilot Unions for a Ratification Vote
DALLAS, Sept. 23 - Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) is pleased to announce a tentative agreement has been reached between the Southwest Airlines Pilots' Association (SWAPA), the union representing Southwest Airlines Pilots, and the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), the union representing the pilots of AirTran Airways. This tentative agreement would integrate the two groups' seniority lists. SWAPA's Board of Directors and ALPA's Master Executive Council both approved the agreement, allowing the membership of each Pilot's Union to review the proposed agreement and ultimately put it to a ratification vote. Southwest Airlines finalized closing of the acquisition of AirTran Holdings, Inc. on May 2, 2011."The unions and Company negotiating teams never lost focus on the ultimate goal of creating an integrated seniority list and transition plan for our Pilots outside of arbitration," said Mike Van de Ven, Southwest Airlines Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. "All parties took ownership of their role in the integration of AirTran into Southwest Airlines, and I want to congratulate our teams for delivering what we feel is a fair and equitable deal for both sides."
"We are proud of both Pilot groups' initiative and persistence to reach a tentative agreement," added Capt. Chuck Magill, Southwest Airlines Vice President of Flight Operations. "History has shown the integration of two large airlines is no easy task, but our Pilots continue to demonstrate forward-thinking Leadership through this process, and their efforts should be recognized and commended."
Reaching a negotiated agreement with the two Pilot groups avoids the arbitration process and gives both groups ownership of the combined list. Each Pilot group will now spend the next four to six weeks reviewing the tentative agreement before putting it up for a ratification vote. SWAPA represents more than 6,000 Southwest Airlines Pilots, and ALPA represents close to 1,600 AirTran Pilots.
In its 40th year of service, Southwest Airlines continues to differentiate itself from other low-fare carriers--offering a reliable product with exemplary Customer Service. Southwest Airlines is the nation's largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded and has recently acquired AirTran Airways, now a wholly owned subsidiary of Southwest Airlines Co. Southwest serves 72 cities in 37 states and is one of the most honored airlines in the world known for its commitment to the triple bottom line of Performance, People, and Planet. To read more about how Southwest is doing its part to be a good citizen, visit southwest.com/cares to read the Southwest Airlines One Report(TM). Based in Dallas, Southwest currently operates more than 3,400 flights a day and has more than 35,000 Employees systemwide.
Nurses United: Strike at 34 California Hospitals
OAKLAND, Calif., Sept. 23 - Thousands of California
registered nurses walked picket lines and joined rallies Thursday, part
of a massive strike by 23,000 RNs at 34 hospitals in Northern and Central California.
The one-day strike by members of the California Nurses Association/National Nurses United sent a strong message to two of the biggest and most profitable hospital chains in the state, Sutter and Kaiser Permanente plus Children's Hospital Oakland.
At a boisterous rally at Sutter Alta Bates in Berkeley Thursday morning, AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka praised the RNs as "the last line of defense for patients" and excoriated the corporate assault by Sutter. "They disrespect you by attacking your healthcare, your retirement benefits, your right to advocate for patients, and now they want to force you to work when you are sick. Having sick nurses care for sick patients is sick."
Trumka said it was 23,000 nurses taking a stand, but that they were joined by "millions of patients" and had the support of working people across the country.
"When nurses are on the outside, there's something wrong on the inside," said CNA Co-President DeAnn McEwen, RN at the rally. She called the sweeping concession demands by Sutter "drastic, unwarranted, and unconscionable. They're harming patients and we're standing in the gap."
CNA/NNU said the key issues are:
Sutter . RNs are protesting 200 sweeping demands by Sutter executives that would:
Kaiser. RNs struck to support Kaiser co-workers who are facing management demands for deep cuts in their health coverage and retirement plans.
Children's Oakland . RNs are protesting management efforts to cut their health coverage, demands they say would make it prohibitively expensive for nurses to bring their own children to get care at the hospital where they work, and inadequate staffing at the hospital.
The one-day strike by members of the California Nurses Association/National Nurses United sent a strong message to two of the biggest and most profitable hospital chains in the state, Sutter and Kaiser Permanente plus Children's Hospital Oakland.
At a boisterous rally at Sutter Alta Bates in Berkeley Thursday morning, AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka praised the RNs as "the last line of defense for patients" and excoriated the corporate assault by Sutter. "They disrespect you by attacking your healthcare, your retirement benefits, your right to advocate for patients, and now they want to force you to work when you are sick. Having sick nurses care for sick patients is sick."
Trumka said it was 23,000 nurses taking a stand, but that they were joined by "millions of patients" and had the support of working people across the country.
"When nurses are on the outside, there's something wrong on the inside," said CNA Co-President DeAnn McEwen, RN at the rally. She called the sweeping concession demands by Sutter "drastic, unwarranted, and unconscionable. They're harming patients and we're standing in the gap."
CNA/NNU said the key issues are:
Sutter . RNs are protesting 200 sweeping demands by Sutter executives that would:
- Restrict their ability to effectively advocate for patients
- Effectively force nurses to work when sick, dangerously exposing extremely ill patients to infection.
- Sharply reduce nurses' healthcare coverage and retiree health benefits.
- The Sutter RNs are also protesting years of widespread cuts in patient care services
Kaiser. RNs struck to support Kaiser co-workers who are facing management demands for deep cuts in their health coverage and retirement plans.
Children's Oakland . RNs are protesting management efforts to cut their health coverage, demands they say would make it prohibitively expensive for nurses to bring their own children to get care at the hospital where they work, and inadequate staffing at the hospital.
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