MONTREAL, May 23 /PRNewswire/ - On Sunday June 1st the wait will be over. After much anticipation, REEBOK Hockey will be unveiling its newly re-designed 9K Pump skate. Hockey enthusiasts will finally be able to get their hands on the skates that have helped Sidney Crosby and Pavel Datsyuk excel in the NHL playoffs this year.
Following the initial success of the first generation of the 9K pump skate launched in 2005, REEBOK Hockey has taken skate design to the next level with this year’s model. Developed in collaboration with NHL players, the new REEBOK 9K pump enhances the efficiency of energy transfer to the ice through its stability and structural support while being one of the lightest skates in the market. The 9K Pump skate guarantees heel lock, ankle support, and enhanced forward flex, accelerating more power and speed into each and every stride.
Featuring Pump Technology which offers players the maximum in personalized performance and comfort, the 9K also includes Pro Armour III R-Core Outer shell, a lightweight core that provides structural support and superior stability for the skater. Additional features such as Dri-Lex liner with Aegis Micro Shield, Griptonite Footbed, and Lightweight Low Profile Carbon Outsole reinforce comfort and stability for the skater, allowing them to focus on their performance on the ice.
Some of the NHL’s most talented players have embraced the 9K Pump as their skate of choice for the past NHL season. Among others, Sidney Crosby, Dion Phaneuf, Pavel Datsyuk, Patrice Bergeron, Daniel Sedin, Henrik Sedin and Nik Antropov relied on the 9K Pump skate.
Post-season, the new 9K Pump Hockey Skate has been part of the success behind Sidney Crosby and Pavel Datsyuk’s performance. After the first three rounds of the playoffs, Crosby is tied for # 1 and Datsyuk is tied for # 3 in playoff scoring - no doubt due to their speed and agility on the ice.
The 9K Pump skate is available in Youth ($149.99), Junior ($329.99) and Senior ($549.99) sizing and is available in key sporting goods stores across America.
Be sure to check out www.rbkhockey.com for more details!
CHONGQING, China, May 26 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Changan Ford Sales Company, Ford Motor Company’s joint venture in China, today announced the opening of its 200th full-service dealership, completing a sales and service network that now covers the whole country.
“We’re continuing with the rapid expansion of our authorized Ford dealer network in China to support our exceptional sales growth in the market, which has outpaced the overall industry for the past several years,” said Nigel Harris, vice president of Ford Motor China and General Manager of Changan Ford Sales Company.
“In addition to providing an excellent product range, a professional dealer network plays a vital role in expanding Ford’s presence in China. We will continue building a professional and industry-leading sales and service network to generate more local demand and enhance the sales satisfaction of our customers,” explained Harris.
Ford Motor China recorded 47 percent year-over-year growth for passenger cars and commercial vehicles in the first quarter of 2008. Changan Ford posted a 54 percent increase in Ford brand passenger cars sales in the same period, making it one of the fastest growing auto manufacturers in China.
The new dealership in Chongqing reflects a doubling of Ford’s full-service dealerships from the end of 2005, when Ford had 100 full-service dealers across China. These full-service dealerships offer sales, service, spare parts and survey capabilities. All Ford authorized dealers are trained in implementing “Ford Service,” which is intended to improve customer relationships and a set of customer care experiences included as part of Changan Ford’s free Roadside Assistance program.
Ford also requires dealerships to undergo certification for Ford QualityCare, a program established in 1987 to enhance customer satisfaction. The QualityCare program covers all details of customer service to standardize and improve quality and efficiency. As of today, 117 of China’s full-service dealerships have obtained QualityCare certification.
About Ford Motor in China
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With about 245,000 employees and about 100 plants worldwide, the company’s core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company.
Ford’s wholly owned subsidiaries, joint ventures and investment in China include Ford Motor (China) Limited, Ford Motor Research & Engineering (Nanjing) Co., Ltd., Ford Automotive Finance (China) Ltd., Changan Ford Mazda Automobile Co., Ltd., Changan Ford Mazda Automobile Co., Ltd. Nanjing Company, Changan Ford Mazda Engine Co., Ltd. and Jiangling Motors Co., Ltd.
For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.ford.com and www.ford.com.cn .
May 22, 2008 — As the weather warms up, the open road invites us to jump in our vehicles, roll down the windows and turn up the radio. But with gas prices high, drivers are looking for ways to enhance their fuel economy before hitting the pavement.
Don’t let the price of gasoline spoil the fun of your family road trip
“Don’t let the price of gasoline spoil the fun of your family road trip,” says Jim MacPherson, car care expert and automotive radio host for WTIC-AM in Connecticut. “By taking a few simple steps you can save money at the pump and ensure the family vehicle is ready to reach your destination safely.”
News Image As a show host, MacPherson is often asked questions about fuel economy, vehicle maintenance and driver safety, particularly as drivers prepare for summer road trips. Here are some of the most common questions callers ask, and his responses to them.
Q: We plan on driving to our destination for the family vacation this year. Are there ways we can keep gasoline costs down?
A: Yes, there are several things you can do to enhance fuel economy. For starters, take your vehicle in for a basic tune up. A poorly tuned engine will burn more fuel. Also, keep tires inflated to the proper pressure levels and change the air filter regularly. Consider switching to a fuel efficient motor oil such as Mobil 1 Advanced Fuel Economy. It can deliver up to 2 percenta fuel economy improvement, and this fully synthetic motor oil will protect your engine in extreme temperatures. For additional cost savings, travel in a mid-size sedan, rather than taking a full-size SUV. If you’re concerned about the space consider shipping recreational equipment to your destination or renting items once you have arrived.
Q: What checks of the vehicle should we make before starting out?
A: Plan ahead for your next road trip and schedule a maintenance service at least two weeks prior to heading out. This will allow for plenty of time for repairs should your mechanic find a problem. A full check of the vehicle’s safety systems will give you peace of mind while driving long distances. Most importantly, be sure the vehicle’s tires and brakes are in proper working order.
Q: Are there any driving tips to make the trip more economical?
A: Allow plenty of time to reach your destination so you’re not tempted to speed. Driving at high speeds creates wind resistance and burns more fuel. When possible, try to keep rapid acceleration and braking to a minimum, as this can decrease fuel economy. Also, if your vehicle is equipped with cruise control, I recommend using it. Cruise control smoothes surges in acceleration and places the driver’s view on the road ahead as opposed to responding to every shift in traffic around them.
Q: I’ve heard that a dirty car can hurt your fuel economy. Is that true?
A: Actually, yes. The dirt on your car’s exterior creates drag that, over long distances, reduces your miles-per-gallon. Keeping your vehicle washed and waxed will improve your vehicle’s aerodynamics, improving your fuel economy. You’ll also feel good about driving around in a clean vehicle.
Q: We are going to need to use the rooftop carrier on our vehicle, but the warning label calls for a very low weight limit. Is the roof really capable of supporting only 175 pounds?
A: These weight limits are often established with vehicle control and handling in mind. Items latched to a roof rack raise the vehicle’s center of gravity. Check your owner’s manual and follow the weight restrictions on the warning labels to ensure safe travels.
For more information about Mobil 1 products call 1-800-MOBIL25 or visit www.mobil1.com
NASSAU, The Bahamas, May 22 /PRNewswire/ — Mariah Carey and Nick Cannon recently wed at a surprise ceremony on the picture-perfect island of Eleuthera, adding to the growing list of stars that have planned their perfect day in The Bahamas. With ideal weather year round, breathtaking beaches, lavish hotels and amenities, not to mention privacy, this tropical paradise has long been a favorite locale for celebrities to walk down the aisle in style.
Always the trend setter, supermodel Cindy Crawford said “I do” to hubby Rande Gerber in May 1998 at the swanky Ocean Club on Paradise Island. Since then, A-list couples have continued to flock to the 700 Islands Of The Bahamas including current NFL commentator Deion Sanders who was married on Nassau Paradise Island, Richard De Niro, son of Oscar winning actor Robert De Niro, who also said his vows on Nassau Paradise Island and Solange Knowles, younger sister of pop icon Beyonce, who wed on Grand Bahama Island. Also married in The Bahamas was Google co-founder Sergey Brin to bio-tech specialist Anne Wojcicki. The sweethearts said their nuptials in May of 2007 on Musha Cay Island on a private property owned by magician David Copperfield.
You don’t have to be rich and famous to get married in The Bahamas. Whether planning a large wedding with hundreds of guests or an intimate ceremony with just close friends and family in attendance, The Bahamas can fit the needs of all personalities, themes, and budgets. With endless hotel and resort options, restaurant choices and activities for the young and young at heart, this chic destination makes planning a wedding effortless. What’s more, possibly the most distinct feature of The Bahamas is the ability for newlyweds to cut the cake on one island and then leave their guests behind to escape to their honeymoon on yet another secluded island in The Bahamas!
Life in The Islands Of The Bahamas is as culturally diverse as it is vibrantly beautiful, from the carefree Out Islands to exciting Nassau/Paradise Island and Grand Bahama Island. With world-class diving and fishing, gorgeous turquoise water and miles of picture perfect beaches, the 700 islands of The Bahamas offer visitors the opportunity to do everything or nothing at all. To plan your own destination wedding in The Bahamas visit www.weddings.bahamas.com for all of your wedding planning needs. For more information on travel packages, activities and accommodations, call 1-800-Bahamas or visit www.Bahamas.com . To experience The Bahamas at home, visit www.EShopBahamas.com .
Woodbury, CT. (PRWEB) May 22, 2008 — Memorial Day is a great time for a daytrip or weekend road trip to kick off the start of summer. Here are seven must-pack items to keep your cool and your cash when the roads heat up.
1. Pack snacks. If you’re munching on healthy food like apples, carrots, hard-boiled egg whites, or popcorn, you’re going to be more alert than if you stop for junk food at a gas station mini mart. If you know you will crave sweet or salty snacks, buy them at a warehouse store or supermarket ahead of time where the prices are lower. Remember bottled water, soft drinks and a cooler or ice chest to keep them cold.
2. Pack boredom busters. If you hit traffic or are on a long car trip with friends or children with short attention spans, expecting them to spend hours with nothing to do is a recipe for stress. Instead, bring along a variety of activities, like books, non-staining markers, a cd player or mp3 player, a portable dvd player and portable games (low-tech car games or video games). If you have an iPod Touch or similar device, you can download movies ahead of time. Headphones are a must. Some companies make adapters that allow you to use two sets of headphones with one device. Also, be sure to have a supply of batteries on hand if you pack electronics and a car charger if you have one.
3. Pack extra clothes. You never know when that super-sized soft drink is going to end up in your lap. It’s also a good idea to have an extra sweater or sweatshirt, shorts, t-shirts and jeans to adjust to temperature changes.
4. Pack your mobile phone. Remember the car charger, too. In addition to being able to make phone calls, most mobile phones today come with free games preloaded, so be ready to share if you start hearing “I’m bored!” Many mobile phone providers offer plans for unlimited calls, text messages and internet access, so your iPhone, BlackBerry, or most any mobile phone can let you keep in touch with friends and surf mobile websites. One new service made for mobile phones, Pilot.mobi, provides free driving directions and maps in the United States and internationally, plus a listing of hotels and restaurants along the way. You can access it on the web by mobile phone without downloading any additional software.
5. Pack emergency and automotive supplies. Hopefully you’ll never need a first aid kit, jumper cables or road flares on your car trip, but it’s better to have them and not need them than to need them and not have them. A tire gauge can tell you if your tires are properly inflated, which can prevent blowouts and increase fuel efficiency. Extra fuses can be handy if a headlamp or dashboard light goes out. If you haven’t already, it might be a good time to join an emergency road service like AAA (Triple A).
6. Pack travelers’ checks or a debit gift card. Traveler’s checks have been a trusted friend of travelers for years, but salespeople don’t always know how to redeem them. Even better, you can purchase prepaid gift cards from credit card companies like Visa, MasterCard and American Express at drugstores and mass market retailers. If you lose them, it is a lot less stressful than having to replace your primary credit card.
7. Pack it in for the night. Technically, this isn’t packing, but it’s a good idea to get some sleep at a hotel if you have an extended drive ahead of you. Tired drivers are stressed drivers, and falling asleep at the wheel can endanger yourself and other people, so avoid driving through the night it if you can. You can find hotels with pilot.mobi (see item 4) on your mobile phone in case you need to make an unexpected stop.
Have fun and enjoy your Memorial Day road trip.
About Pilot.mobi:
Industry leading travel portal Pilot.mobi is a product of Creative, LLC. Founded in 2007 to meet the needs of today’s on the go consumer, Creative, LLC is a provider of mobile internet travel information and provides maps and driving directions for the United States, Australia and most of Europe to any web enabled mobile phone. The US version of Pilot.mobi includes location information for hotels and restaurants in any state. Creative, LLC is headquartered in Woodbury, CT. For more information visit http://www.pilot.mobi.
NEW YORK, May 21 /PRNewswire/ — Searching for the right college can be a rigorous and expensive proposition for both students and parents alike. Doing research in advance can really help weed out the schools that may not have everything the teen and parent require. With the wealth of information online, it may be the first stop to inquire about a school. But the experience of being at the school, witnessing the campuses and activities first hand, and talking to students, professors and coaches has been virtually impossible until now. A new website LVUTV.COM (Live Video University Television) provides just that — the experience of viewing the school, campus, activities, sports and much more first hand.
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LVUTV.com has the best of all worlds:
-- The data on what each school offers: application fees, tuition and dorm
fees, comparisons of schools, SAT scores, sports programs, diversity,
size, and much more.
-- 50,000 Exclusive College Videos from 200 schools of students,
professors and coaches who are at the schools and whose experience are
invaluable-these live college video testimonials were shot by
professional videographers.
-- The Top Five Rated Colleges in a host of categories that can make one's
search easier.
Experiencing the LVU’s Top Five Colleges categories may help selecting a college easier. Here’s a sampling:
-- Most Scholarships
-- University of Florida
-- Brigham Young University-Provo
-- University of Tulsa
-- West Virginia University
-- Morehouse College
-- Toughest to Get Into
-- Harvard University
-- Princeton University
-- Stanford University
-- Brown University
-- Columbia University
-- Big Time Sports
-- University of Notre Dame
-- Penn State-University Park
-- University of Tennessee
-- Clemson University
-- University of Florida
-- Most International Students (According to the Institute for
International Education, in 2006-2007, nearly 563,000 foreign students
were enrolled in US colleges).
-- Carnegie Mellon University
-- Harvard University
-- Princeton University
-- University of Southern California
-- University of Tulsa
-- Most Debt Upon Graduation
-- New York University
-- George Washington University
-- Carnegie Mellon University
-- University of Denver
-- Fordham University
-- Least Debt Upon Graduation
-- Princeton University
-- Harvard University
-- Utah State University
-- SUNY at Albany
-- University of Hawaii-Manoa
-- Party Schools
-- Arizona State University
-- Penn State
-- University of Wisconsin
-- Florida State University
-- University of Maryland
-- Most Beautiful Campuses
-- Vanderbilt University
-- University of Virginia
-- University of Notre Dame
-- Colgate University
-- Stanford University
LVUTV.com is chock full of information about each school through the amazing college videos. Potential college students will be able to access: the best nightlife, athletic programs, the Greek life, subject specialties, diversity and size-all told through their peer groups. For parents can find out what things cost, what professors and coaches say, and which school is the most politically driven. More than 200 colleges are listed with additional listings made every week.
Glenn Pere, the creator of LVUTV.com said, “I saw the need for parents and teens to gather information about where to attend college. When I witnessed the labor intensive exercise of writing or calling every college for information as well as the expense of visiting them, I realized there had to be a better way. Clearly the internet affords people a quick solution for research. But there is no other web site that provides the experiential element of students talking on or around campus.” In conclusion, Pere said, “There is no better way to find out about colleges than by talking to thousands of students attending them.”
(PRWEB) May 20, 2008 — Thousands of UK motorists relying on urban myths and not reading the small print on their car insurance policies are running a major risk of not being covered to the extent they think they are, according to new research.
The research, undertaken on behalf of swiftcover.com, found British drivers to be extremely confused as to what is and isn’t covered by their insurance. For example, while eating and smoking behind the wheel might not be a criminal offence, many drivers are not aware that they could be accused of negligence if involved in an accident while smoking or eating; resulting in a drastically reduced payout.
While choosing the lowest price car insurance policy is most people’s objective, it is also important to know exactly what is and isn’t covered. Drivers make a lot of assumptions about their policies, so it’s best to read all terms and conditions carefully and to regularly review the terms.
The main findings were as follows:
Driving other people’s cars
Hopping behind the wheel of your partner or friend’s car might seem like a perfectly acceptable thing to do - indeed a third (29 per cent) of drivers polled assumed that they would be insured through their own insurance. In fact, most car insurance policies only insure drivers if it’s included in the small print, and rarely offer more than third party cover.
swiftcover.com’s advice: Don’t just assume you’ll be covered - if you need to drive someone else’s car, check your insurance policy.
Eating, smoking and using a mobile behind the wheel
65 per cent of drivers eat whilst driving and 36 per cent still smoke. swiftcover.com’s poll found that over a fifth of British motorists don’t know whether they would be covered regardless if they were in an accident - in fact they could be caught for negligence if caught eating or smoking while an accident occurred, even if the accident wasn’t their fault.
swiftcover.com’s advice: Drive safe - drivers’ reaction times are 50 per cent slower when on the phone, eating or smoking, whilst the Highway Code recently listed eating and smoking as dangerous distractions.
Underrating your mileage
Not telling your insurer when you exceed your mileage can invalidate your policy. swiftcover.com’s poll showed that a quarter (25.8 per cent) of motorists didn’t know whether driving over their stated mileage would affect their insurance cover - whilst nearly a fifth (16.1 per cent) stated that it wouldn’t.
swiftcover.com’s advice: Keep a check and always inform your insurer if your circumstances change.
Petrol v diesel
Putting the wrong kind of fuel into your car is not something anyone wants to do - but thousands of British motorists each year get it wrong. Unfortunately, this can be a costly mistake - as many policies won’t cover this. Worryingly, 10 per cent of people assumed their policy would cover this.
swiftcover.com’s advice: Always double-check at the pump - an engine strip-down costs thousands of pounds, and this is not something you want to have to pay for.
Tina Shortle of swiftcover.com commented, “While choosing the lowest price car insurance policy is most people’s objective, it is also important to know exactly what is and isn’t covered. Drivers make a lot of assumptions about their policies, so it’s best to read all terms and conditions carefully and to regularly review the terms.”
New York, NY (PRWEB) May 20, 2008 — Lots and lots of people are traveling to and from Manhattan on a daily basis from tourists to shoppers to business people, by plane, taxi, bus or by train. But if they schlep a luggage in their hands they better hold on to it since there is no luggage storage, coat check, lockers or a place where one could pre-ship luggage in the entire NYC area.
Well, now there is, its called Schwartz Travel Services www.schwartztravel.com located in Midtown Manhattan.
It’s as simple as a Coat Check procedure
“When it comes to the word Luggage or Baggage for all we know it, it almost became a bad word” says Mr. Joe Schwartz, President and Founder of Schwartz Travel Services. “First, the airlines are losing more luggage than ever, the baggage check-in lines at airports are getting bigger and bigger, airlines are imposing strict annoying regulations, and most recently the airlines decided to charge big for an extra bag”.
“Secondly, due to security reasons, there is no longer a place to leave luggage for a while in any big city and especially Manhattan. So instead of enjoying sightseeing, or whatever, the poor guy is stuck with some large bags for hours trying to Rent-A-Locker in Manhattan”. Finally there is help: Schwartz Travel Services (STS) www.schwartztravel.com is here to help schlep and store luggage.
Here is how they operate: Anyone looking for luggage storage in Manhattan and has a state issued photo ID can walk into STS to store their bags for a day, week or month. “It’s as simple as a Coat Check procedure”.
The same goes for luggage shipping. luggage could be sent via USPS, UPS or FedEx etc. directly to STS to be safely stored at their “SKY Luggage Storage” Department, and retrieved as soon as the traveler gets to Manhattan or have the luggage delivered to their hotel / office for a small fee. “We treat all baggage as our guests” says Mr. Schwartz.
Business people who fly back and forth from Manhattan who had previously thought of Luggage Shipping as too expensive are now reconsidering the service “it became as simple as shipping and receiving any other package and the benefits are unbelievable”.
Located in Midtown Manhattan between Penn Station and the NY Port Authority bus terminal, “the place is welcome news to all kind of Manhattan travelers and the facility is safe and secure 24 hours a day” he emphasizes.
For more information, please visit www.schwartztravel.com or contact:
Monroe, WI (PRWEB) May 20, 2008 — With food prices on the rise across the country, it’s important to get the most flavor and value out of your summer meat purchases. Gary Schwager, President of The Tender Filet, a leading purveyor of quality meats-by-mail, offers beef lovers three simple tips on how to get the most taste from the grill this summer. These helpful hints will assure that every bite of beef tastes as good as–if not better than–the last when grill lovers kick off the summer grilling season this Memorial Day.
1. “When buying beef, look for meat that has been appropriately aged. While you might think aging beef sounds strange, it’s during this process that the juices are absorbed into the meat, enhancing the flavor and tenderizing the steaks.” The Tender Filet consistently ages its beef for 21-28 days to achieve the most tender, flavorful meats available online and by catalog.
When buying beef, look for meat that has been appropriately aged. While you might think aging beef sounds strange, it’s during this process that the juices are absorbed into the meat, enhancing the flavor and tenderizing the steaks.
2. “Another important consideration is the cut–you don’t go just anywhere to get your hair cut and the same goes for meat. Experienced meat buyers know they get more use and flavor out of their beef if it’s cut to restaurant-quality specifications. Most meats found in supermarkets are not cut with that level of care and can be less economical due to increased waste.” The Tender Filet’s average meat cutter has 15 years of cutting experience.
3. “A final tip is to plan meals ahead of time and buy meat in larger quantities to take advantage of deals. For holidays like Memorial Day, we find customers buy in large amounts so they can portion use throughout the summer. To make this easier for our customers, The Tender Filet offers a credit plan with low monthly payments for ease of shopping.”
For more information or to order from The Tender Filet, visit Tenderfilet.com or call 1-800-228-1214 for a catalog.
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(PRWEB) May 20, 2008 — A 24-year-old entrepreneur is hoping to help his single mother out of poverty - and become a millionaire in the process - by selling ad space on his website journal. Determined to help support his mother who recently came out of surgery and was unable to work her 60-hour week job, Jerry Mathurin came up with the idea to create an evolving eBook and place company ads on his website starting at $100 for a minimum of two years.
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nstead of most millionaire autobiographies that document accomplishments post achievement, Mathurin thought people would enjoy seeing firsthand the process of attaining a dream. Mathurin is currently majoring in Computer Programming at Palm Beach Community College while working part time as a Computer Tutor Specialist.
Readers of Mathurin’s ‘dorm room to riches’ story will not only witness the struggles of a young entrepreneur trying to accomplish his dream, but will also be able to track his progress as new advertising spots are filled. “It’s only the infancy of this site, but we are catching the eye of advertisers and our growth looks to be infectious,” added Mathurin. When Mathurin attains his million dollar goal he will donate 10 percent of his earnings to ten diverse charities and over $10,000 to his top ten visitors throughout the world.
Jerry has already made over $3,200, and is calling out for advertisers all around the world to join what he describes as a revolution. He believes that his website will be part of history and those who join him will benefit through his exposure. “The ads start at $100 for a 60 X 60 ad space, companies should take advantage of this before its too late,” Mathurin adds.
Fritz Valdeus, the owner of Hanetball, a flourishing new sport combining teamwork and an intense cardiovascular workout, also trusts that Mathurin is on the path to success. “I chose to advertise on his site not only because it’s a great idea and we are inspired by Jerry, but that it will reach an important audience who will fall in love with our unique sport,” said Valdeus.
“Supporting bright young people like Jerry Mathurin is how TeleLakay TV demonstrates its commitment to a brighter Haitian & Caribbean community,” said James Toussaint, Marketing Director of TeleLakay TV, an online television program in Palm Beach County targeting people from the Islands.
Be part of or find more about Jerry Mathurin’s new revolution at www.amillionairesjournal.com.
Hong Kong (PRWEB) May 20, 2008 — A new website, BrillBaby.com, is making the world of infant education and early learning accessible to parents and caregivers everywhere.
Drawing on the latest neuroscientific research as well as their own experiences of teaching babies, the makers of BrillBaby aim to inform and empower parents everywhere to enjoy teaching their babies from home.
I wanted to create the web’s most comprehensive source of information on baby intelligence and early learning, so that other parents would have an easier time than I did.
Website founder KL Wong taught his daughter to read whole words - and understand their meanings - before the age of one. Now aged two and a half, Felicity has graduated to being able to sound out new words. Visitors to the BrillBaby site can see videos of her reading at ages 12, 28 and 29 months.
KL’s experience of teaching Felicity convinced him that it is easier to learn to read as a baby than at the age of five or six. He also noticed that he and his daughter were having a great time during lessons - making the teaching experience as much about bonding as learning.
Sure that other parents would welcome similar experiences, KL felt the biggest obstacles were the time and effort required to get to grips with delivering homemade lessons. He himself had spent many hours both on online research and the preparation of teaching materials. Explains KL, “I wanted to create the web’s most comprehensive source of information on baby intelligence and early learning, so that other parents would have an easier time than I did.”
In an effort to be as all-inclusive and unbiased as possible, the Baby Intelligence section of the website covers the science of early learning as well as the arguments on both sides of the debate about when children should begin learning academic subjects, especially reading. With all the information collected in one place, busy parents are empowered to make informed choices… choices that could have far-reaching implications for their child.
In the Teaching Babies section, parents learn the pros and cons of various teaching methodologies - for example, the Glenn Doman flash card method versus the Robert Titzer multi-sensory method of reading instruction. They can also visit the forum to ask questions and share thoughts and ideas with the site’s moderators as well as other parents.
One of those moderators is managing editor Madeleine Fitzpatrick, who is teaching her own baby reading, math and sign language, and discussing her experiences - as well as other parenting issues - on a blog linked to BrillBaby. “Every baby is different, and every parent has to do what works for them,” says Madeleine. “I hope to get as many parents as possible involved in the discussion, so we can see how our experiences differ - and coincide.”
Infancy is an exciting time in every child’s development, and BrillBaby will help parents come to understand and enjoy it as never before.
For more information about teaching babies to read, go to BrillBaby.
RARITAN, N.J., May 16 /PRNewswire/ — Veridex, LLC announced today that its licensing collaborator, Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings (LabCorp), has commercially launched a new gene methylation test for prostate cancer. The new assay uses the biological specificity of ‘DNA methylation’ in prostate cancer, detecting the methylation of the gene GST-Pi. Methylation is a modification of DNA that occurs primarily in cancer. Veridex is developing the methylation markers in this tissue assay, GST-Pi, along with other markers, for a urine-based screening test for prostate cancer.
Prostate cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in men in the U.S., with more than 230,000 cases diagnosed annually.
LabCorp licensed the methylation technology from Veridex in 2007. Veridex licensed this technology from OncoMethylome Sciences, S.A. (OMS).
About Veridex
Veridex, LLC, a Johnson & Johnson company, develops cancer diagnostic products that will enable earlier disease detection as well as more accurate staging, monitoring and therapeutic selection. The company is initially developing two complementary product lines: CellSearch(TM) assays that identify, enumerate and characterize circulating tumor cells directly from whole blood; and GeneSearch(TM) assays that use molecular technology to diagnose, stage and more accurately characterize tumors. For additional information, please visit www.veridex.com
ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, May 16 /PRNewswire/ — Galley Bay Resort & Spa — Antigua’s award-winning, adults-only Caribbean romantic hideaway — announces an incredible airfare promotion featuring complimentary tickets from all major East Coast gateways that serve Antigua via American Airlines and Delta Air Lines. Couples who book seven-night all-inclusive stays in the resort’s Premium Beachfront Suites from June through November 2008 qualify. The all-inclusive nightly rate is $520 per person, based on double occupancy, and includes all meals, top-shelf liquor, non-motorized water sports, entertainment, tax and service charges.
Couples can fly Delta Air Line’s new twice-weekly non-stop service from New York’s JFK International Airport, beginning June 12, 2008; Delta’s non-stop flights from Atlanta, as well as other major Delta East Coast gateways; and American Airlines’ daily connecting service from the East Coast through San Juan to Antigua.
“Galley Bay Resort & Spa has consistently been ranked among the world’s most romantic resorts, and it just keeps getting better. Now we’re making romantic getaways and destination weddings more affordable by providing complimentary flights to couples,” said Steven E. Heydt, Elite Island Resorts’ president. “And, according to the Travel Industry Association (TIA), 42 million+ Americans travel for romantic purposes annually. This promotion plus our complimentary destination wedding program, gives them an even greater incentive to do so.”
Premium Beachfront Suites feature a sunken living room with wet bar, floor-to-ceiling windows, a private furnished terrace or balcony and an expansive bathroom with his-and-hers showers and deep-soaking tubs along with the latest high-tech amenities such as 32-inch, flat-screen wall-mounted TVs, iPod docking stations, DVD players and wireless Internet access. Raising the bar on luxury, the resort’s recently opened Indulge spa was designed as a posh tree house overlooking a tropical bird sanctuary. Also new are a wedding gazebo and a third romantic dining option, Ismay’s — a Caribbean fusion restaurant set along a three-quarter-mile stretch of stunning white-sand beach. Both are sure to be popular for weddings.
An intimate, casually elegant retreat, Galley Bay Resort & Spa consistently earns prestigious awards including top honors from Conde Nast Traveler and TripAdvisor.com, and was recently certified green in accordance with international standards. For reservations, call (800) 345-0356 or visit www.galleybayresort.com or www.eliteislands.com.
MONTREAL, May 16 /PRNewswire/ - It’s hard to imagine a destination more family-friendly than the Caribbean, or an accommodation more suited to family holidays than villas. Put them together and you have the perfect conditions, ready to keep everyone from Grandma and Grandpa on down to the littlest tots happy and busy.
Though, on the whole, the Caribbean is perfect for families, some beach destinations shine brighter than others in terms of the services and activities they have to offer. The trick is to know your group and its needs, wants and what you won’t compromise on (like direct flights, for example). No matter what your make-up, the Caribbean has destinations and villas for you.
Luxury Retreats, www.luxuryretreats.com, a specialist in luxury villa rentals throughout the Caribbean, has experience pointing families in the right direction.
“The majority of the guests we work with are traveling in a group of at least 4 to 5 family members, and that usually includes a wide range of ages and personalities,” said Ben Tuff, Luxury Retreats’ Director of Marketing. “It might seem like an impossible task to find something that everyone will like, but that’s the beauty of the Caribbean - there really is something for everyone.”
For families with kids of all ages, Tuff recommends islands like St. Thomas or Grand Cayman, a crowd-pleaser with plenty of activities for the little ones but also the restaurants and nightlife that the teens and adults might crave. If staffing is a factor, families should look towards St. Lucia, Jamaica or Barbados - all islands where a cook and maid usually come standard with a villa rental.
“Having someone to cook you dinner while you’re hanging out by the pool is an amazing feeling,” said Tuff. “And family vacations are even more special when you are all experiencing something new together.”
Togetherness being the key component of family holidays, villas easily trump hotels and resorts, where spreading out in multiple rooms down a hallway among hundreds of other travelers.
For more information on all our family destinations, visit our website through the following: www.luxuryretreats.com
Manchester, UK (PRWEB) May 16, 2008 — Childhood obesity is becoming a growing problem throughout the UK. More and more children are spending their play time in front of their televisions and games consoles, and experts agree that a lack of outdoor play has contributed to the issue. To combat the obesity epidemic, Jo Nicholson of Little Nut Tree Toys has started the “Get Kids Active” campaign.
Treats, sweets, quantity, not quality, and little or no outdoor play have all contributed to a trend of kids getting fatter and less able to be what kids are born to be - free spirits enjoying themselves in the great outdoors, generally burning lots of calories.
The nation has sat back and watched what Professor Paul Gately has called an epidemic creep up on us - kids becoming obese, let alone the adults. An epidemic of obese kids! It seems utterly absurd, but the figures seem to stack up.
With convenience foods stacked full of sugars, fats and salts to ’save us time’, our time saving is costing ours and our kids life span.
If it wasn’t for experts like Gillian McKeith and Professor Gately who are willing to step up to the mark and open our eyes to what is happening then as a nation we would slip further into obesity.
Life for a lot of people seems to be spiralling out of control, getting faster and faster as we try and keep up with society as it develops - something has to give and in many households, convenience food does just that - it provides a way of easing time pressures.
As a mother of two Jo Nicholson, founder of online children’s toys store Little Nut Tree Toys, knows all about living life in the fast lane. With two children, a husband who runs two businesses and her own business to run, she admits that corners do get cut. Jo comments ‘I used to be so fit, cycling to work and then swimming in my lunch hour… I was fit, but that was before kids and starting my business. Life seems to run so fast these days that we are always looking for ways to cut corners - I’m a victim of it myself, but when I see programmes like “Too Fat to Toddle” it really does bring you up short and makes you think about what you’re doing to yourself and your kids health and that both things are under your control.’
But keeping kids healthy is not just about the food that they eat, it’s also about the exercise. Quite often public amenities like parks and swimming pools are not locally available so it leaves parents with little choice of where to get their kids to play, often having to decide between the front streets or the confines of their back garden (if they’re lucky enough to have one).
Jo continues, ‘As a modern society we seem to have forgotten that kids are the great imaginers of our world - they dream, invent and create like no adult can. J M Barrie had it nailed when he created Peter Pan, the eternal fun, mischievous and life-loving child. But we seem to have got ourselves entrenched in the idea that children need entertaining and need expensive props. Look at all the soft play centres that have sprung up. It may sound a bit naïve but I really would like to see a return to basic outdoor play and that’s why Little Nut Tree Toys is launching our Get Kids Active appeal for parents to send in their childhood game memories. You don’t have to have a park, play frames and soft play centres - just a bit of imagination.’
I used to spend hours playing with a tennis ball stuffed down one of my mum’s stockings and whacking it against a wall - but for the life of me I can’t remember the rhymes, rules or how it worked. I’d love to find out how to play it again so I can teach my daughter - it would be so much fun. So if anyone knows… I’m really keen for us to engage kids in games that are simple, fun, can be played individually or in groups. I for one would love to see kids playing together in social groups again. Not just hanging around on corners using their mobiles. That’s why we’re starting our campaign to bring back traditional outdoor toys and games like the one I used to play.’
To join the campaign to get kids active again, you can contact Jo at enquiries @ littlenuttreetoys.co.uk.
About Little Nut Tree Toys
Little Nut Tree Toys was launched in 2005 as a result of Jo Nicholson wanting to buy good quality, wooden and educational toys for her one year old daughter. The company philosophy has always been to promote toys that encourage kids to discover toys for themselves (without batteries and jarring electronic voices) and also wanted to focus on getting kids playing outside again which she sees as an integral part of childhood.
The company has grown from selling 50 toys in offices over lunch times, craft and Christmas fairs, to now selling over 700 products via its website. Since the re-launch the website, www.littlenuttreetoys.co.uk, now offers its customers a variety of features including recycled packaging, gift wrapping and gift vouchers.
