Tamil refugee children unable to go to school in Malaysia

New York, New York (PRWEB) February 16, 2012

In January, Transnational Government of Tamil Eelam (TGTE) ministers Muthukumarasamy Ratna, and Alex Doss went to Malaysia, accompanied by David Matas, an international human rights lawyer, to investigate claims of harsh living conditions by Tamil refugees to the Southeast Asian country. The TGTE mission discovered that, while Malaysia has taken some positive steps to address difficulties faced by refugees, Tamils still claim to face discrimination, employment abuse and violence.

The three man delegation worked in connection with a new NGO, the Sri Lankan Tamil Refugee Organization of Malaysia (STROM), dedicated to helping refugees with welfare, education, healthcare, employment, security, and resettlement. They visited the UNHCR, human rights lawyers, and conducted over 250 in-home visits with Tamil refugees. According to the UNHCR, there are 4268 Tamil refugees, overall in Malaysia.

The TGTE Ministry said, “During our fact finding mission, numerous Tamil refugees claimed that exploitation, kidnappings, police harassment, extortion, and rapes have occurred amongst the refugees in Malaysia.” According to STROM, since Tamil refugees are made to sign Malay language documents in which they pledge a return to Sri Lanka, they live with personal uncertainty, anxiety and stress, and fear venturing out on their own.

The group identified a large number of Tamil war widows left with children. Currently, these children are barred from attending schools. “In five to ten years, what would become of them?” asked Minister M. Ratna. Matas added “Though Malaysia is not a signatory country to the 1951 Refugee Convention, it is still subject to the Convention on the Rights of the Child.” The convention provides that children of asylum seekers and refugees shall ‘receive appropriate protection and humanitarian assistance,’ and will cooperate with the UN in providing those services.

“To date, Malaysia has not taken any steps to protect the rights of the children of refugees. The government should take initiative for their education, as there are over 500 Tamil schools throughout the country to facilitate them,” Matas said.

The TGTE Ministry also reported many cases of refugees not getting paid for working odd jobs. “This seems to be a big problem as they are unable to sustain their families,” the delegation reported. Access to healthcare was another difficulty uncovered by the delegation. Although many have amputated limbs or shrapnel in their body, they are not receiving medical attention, and the Tamil elderly lack access to necessary care.

The Ministry explained, “Tamil refugees in Malaysia are under the risk of being deported back to Sri Lanka, where they face imminent threat to life. Because of their ‘non-legal’ status in the country, many claim to be harassed by the police, and RELA Corps, a civilian volunteer police force. These civilian police are paid an 80 Ringgit incentive per arrest. This can make refugees a target for arrest or extortion.

SUARAM, a Malaysian human rights group, says that the Malaysian government makes things harder for refugees. Malaysia has shown no intention of ratifying the 1951 UNCHR Refugee Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees and its 1967 Protocol, according to SUARAM. Currently refugees and asylum seekers have no legal status in Malaysia. Even if a refugee is formally registered with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Malaysian law does not recognize that the country has any obligation to provide protection, according to SUARAM.

The TGTE delegation found a positive development during their trip. The Malaysian government has taken some steps to solving the problems refugees face in the country with the 6p Program. According to The Malaysian Bar, “the 6p Program stands for Comprehensive Settlement of Foreign Worker Program and ‘illegal’ immigrants.” “Malaysia is moving in the right direction with this upcoming 6p Program in March this year. We encourage the country to foster, and promote human rights by signing the 1951 Convention,” said the TGTE Ministry.

Deputy Minister Doss said, “The trip was very productive. Not only did our Ministry cover our area of focus, but it covered areas of other TGTE ministries such as the welfare of women and children, education, healthcare, and economic affairs. Our Ministry shall work to bring about solutions for short term problems refugees face, and a long term solution on resettlement.”

Since the end of Sri Lanka’s ethnic conflict in May of 2009 between the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and the Government of Sri Lanka (GoSL), there has been a mass exodus of Tamil refugees globally. In a matter of three days, according to Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, 40,000 people were killed in an aerial bombardment of the Tamil homeland of the Northeast, also known as Tamil Eelam. Scores of surrendered Tamil Tiger rebels, and civilians were tortured, raped, and massacred. The TGTE Ministry of Refugees, IDPs, and POWs received reports of boatloads of Tamil refugees escaping the carnage. Many have landed on the shores of Indonesia, Malaysia, Australia, Ecuador, South America, and the West African country of Togo.

About The Transnational Government of Tamil Eelam:

Transnational Government of Tamil Eelam (TGTE) is a democratically elected body of the Tamil Diaspora from the island of Sri Lanka. TGTE held elections in 15 countries to elect Members of Parliament. The Parliament drafted and ratified its Constitution, elected a Prime Minister, a Speaker, and 10 Cabinets consisting of 10 Ministers and Deputy Ministers.

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www.b2betrader.com

Tampa, FL (PRWEB) February 19, 2012

B2BeTrader is proud to join one of the largest international trade organizations in the world, representing companies involved in the sale and distribution of industrial equipment. The Associated Equipment Distributors represent over 500 companies with a net sales revenue of $ 15 billion annually. They are a leader in education, public policymaking, research, analysis, and promotion for the industrial equipment sector.

For B2BeTrader, it’s a big step towards improving the quality of ad listings taking place on the site. As an authorized marketplace for the buying and selling of used industrial equipment, B2BeTrader offers a safe haven for business owners looking to grow their assets while taking on minimal cost and risk. All authorized marketplaces must abide by the AED’s strict guidelines that ensure each transaction is ethically compliant and equitable for all parties involved.

B2BeTrader is an online marketplace where business owners can buy or sell their used equipment, restaurant equipment, farm equipment, medical equipment, and more. The unique B2BeTrader app makes the process easier than ever. Users can take a photo of their equipment, upload it, write a quick description, and meet with people who are interested in purchasing it. Click here to place free ads.

The decision to join the AED also puts B2BeTrader in the role of a leader and educator within the industrial equipment sector. The AED is B2BeTrader’s partner in educating the public and developing careers. With access to all of the AED’s resources, B2BeTrader will become the most informed place to purchase used industrial equipment online. No other place will serve as a one-stop for businesses to not only find the right equipment but also learn everything they need to know to make the right purchasing decision.

“The way we see it,” Jovan Haye the co-founder of B2BeTrader said, “we are becoming a growing network of professionals who deal in used industrial equipment. When you consider who we work with on a day to day basis, it’s only natural that we would join the AED to improve our knowledge base and extend our arms to everyone involved in this sector of the market. We started off with a green agenda, and now we’re working on educating the public so we can all make smart decisions.”

“Buying used instead of new not only helps entrepreneurs save money,” Jovan added, “it’s also the most green way to go about growing your assets. Just think about how much less energy it takes to go and pick something up than it does to get that same piece of equipment made from scratch. Granted, there’s always the risk of dealing with somebody new, but we’re working as hard as we can to mitigate that risk.”

Those who are interested in buying or selling their used industrial equipment can visit B2BeTrader at http://www.b2betrader.com. They can also download the B2BeTrader mobile app, available for both the iPhone (coming soon) and Android platforms. Any questions can be sent to contact(at)b2betrader(dot)com.

More about B2Betrader.com

B2Betrader.com is a “free to use” business to business (b2b) re-marketing, classified and directory website. This website serves businesses and professionals that are looking to buy, sell, trade, and barter commercial assets and resources including equipment, supplies or services. It’s a one-stop marketplace for investors, start-up businesses, dealers, liquidators and companies’ procurement buyers and sellers to buy, sell, trade and barter everything from (tangible) products like equipment to (non-tangible) products like trademark patents and everything in between.

B2Betrader.com is a smarter more focus re-marketing listing website that gives you the ability to place ads on an open market network based on industry use. It’s also a powerful centralized networking hub powered by all the major social media outlets and the “social-sharing” technology giving your listing maximum exposure and the maximum return on your investment.

This website will be an important source for raising capital to help finance upcoming new projects or help with the maintenance of current infrastructures. It will also help businesses operate more efficiently, and at the same time help the environment by reducing unnecessary waste.

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Clark Freeport, Philippines (PRWEB) February 05, 2012

The plant will be comprised of modular standard 50 ton/day MSW gasification systems, which will supply around 4,000 Nm3/hr syngas to a syngas power generation unit per system. The expected power output of the proposed gasification plant is up to 2 MWe plus surplus thermal heat up to 2MWth. The gasification plant is prepared in modular concept and multi-gasification units can be built in the same site, which will produce power in multiples of 2 MWe. The gasification plant will also include the associated ancillary structural platform buildings.

The Gasification System which is provided by Beltran includes the gasifier reactor with ash discharge, gas clean up system including, cyclone filters, heat exchangers, WESP, gas suction blower, pipe work, syngas flare stack, instruments with control system and steel frame structure.

The Gasifier system uses a modified moving bed gasifier which is designed to produce a combustible syngas from a variety of combustible solid materials which can be supplied to chemical synthesis processes or a boiler or used directly in an internal combustion gas engine or dual fueled engine to produce electricity and heat.

Each gasifier system is designed to process up to 2 tons per hour of dry biomass and dried RDF and a range of other industrial and domestic waste products per gasifier module with the resulting syngas being converted into heat/electricity by a spark ignition or duel fuel compression standard engine generators. Alternatively the syngas produced from the gasifier can be utilized for the synthesis of chemicals.

The process of manufacturing RDF fuel pellets involves placing ground biomass under high pressure and forcing it through a round or square opening called a “die.” When exposed to the appropriate conditions, the biomass “fuses” together, forming a solid mass. This process is known as “extrusion.”

The pellets made from the inbound garbage at San Fernando will be sold in 18-kilogram bags, which will be filled using an overhead hopper and conveyor belt arrangement. The TGEG bags will be clearly labeled with the type of pellet, their grade (i.e., premium or standard), and their heat content. 1 ton of biomass pellets made by True Green Energy Group will be sold for approximately $ 165. For every 1 ton produced. The landfill site in San Fernando is estimated to pelletize between 300 to 1000 tons per day.

Pelletizing is a way to make use of raw garbage that would otherwise pollute the air and Poison the water table. Pellets like these replace fossil fuels, thus cutting greenhouse gas emissions. Pellets are easier to store because they are uniform in size and composition. They are much cleaner to handle than charcoal or coal, and produce less local air pollution.

The Beltran WESP equipment is located just after the venture scrubber and specifically designed by Beltran for biomass waste gasification syngas cleanup. Beltran will install a new single module WESP system to achieve an overall removal efficiency of above 98%. The proposed system will comprise of a vertical flow tubular WESP system.

Beltran wet electrostatic precipitators are in use throughout the world in more than 1,000 installations. Wet Precipitators are of rigid frame design with fixed-point suspension for the high voltage discharge electrode system and have been installed for collecting different types of aerosols, tar and dusts.

Beltran WESP’s are operating on biomass, MSW, and coal gasification plants, as well as coke ovens and town gas production furnaces. Particulates are also collected, such as fly ash, glass melting furnaces, forming stations, tar droplets, cement, lime, sodium sulfate and dust containing ferrous and non-ferrous metal oxides.

The Beltran electrostatic precipitator embodies many unique design features that ensure high collecting efficiencies over an extended lifetime with a minimum of preventative maintenance. A WESP can either have horizontal or vertical gas flow.

Today the world’s growing demand for energy combined with the fragile state of earth’s environment means that renewable energy solutions are becoming increasingly important. Jobs in renewable energy are steadily on the rise. The importance of obtaining energy that does not harm the environment cannot be understated. That’s why energy companies are always searching for the best and brightest minds in the renewable energy fields.

The C.E.O. Renato W. Lee III of True Green Energy Group stated, “Ronald Flynn is an entrepreneur who had a dream to help the world be a better place. He has been determined to not let his dream die. The man has faith and belief in his dreams and did not let anyone or anything stop him from succeeding. The fact is many people thought he was crazy and said it would never work. But like any great entrepreneur, he listened to what he felt. He worked out the kinks and preceded in what people are now saying could become the biggest green energy company in the world.

Ronald Flynn is self-made, and is currently building Green energy power plants around the world. The fact is as a Green entrepreneur he did not wait for new energy policies or the political will that may, one day, reduce global greenhouse emissions by some arbitrary target.

Larry Ray, the chief advisor for the founder of True Green Energy Group stated, “Our team flew to Korea to meet the representatives of Beltrans to see their system, and sign contracts for world wide deployment. Today we are pleased to have signed an agreement with Beltrans and have Dr. Murat on board to facilitate the waste to energy projects already underway.

Dr. Murat Dogru is a famous scientist. He currently holds the patents for, Apparatus for Revolving Gas Producer, GB1014839.3, (2010 Patent Pending) and Catalytic Gasification, International Patent, PCT/GB2004/004651 (WO05047435A2), who has advanced our world society for the common good in the Fields of Waste to Energy, Waste Management Technologies, Fuel and Energy, Plant and Process Design, Renewable Energy and Environment, Low Carbon Technologies, Gas and Water Treatments. Since 1996 Dr. Murat has completed many research gasification projects that include but are not limited to:

1. Dogru M. and Howarth C.R., 1996-1998. “A Small Scale Gasifier with Combined Heat and Power (CHP) Facility Results Using Wood Chips” project was carried out under contract as part of the European Funded Sustainable Technology Centre, managed by the Newcastle University on behalf of the Third Generation Ltd., Newtown St Boswells, Melrose, Scotland.

2. Dogru M. and Howarth C.R., 1998-2000. “Gasification of Sewage Sludge with a Downdraft Gasifier”, project was carried out under contract as part of the Renewable Energy Research and Development, managed by the Newcastle University on behalf of the Anglian Water plc, UK.

3. Dogru M. and Howarth C.R., 2000-2002. “Gasification of Leather Residues with a Downdraft Gasifier”, project was carried out under contract as part of the Renewable Energy Research and Development, managed by the Newcastle University on behalf of the British Leather Co. plc.

4. Dogru M., and Akay G. 2002-2007. “Oil-water and Gas-liquid separations”, project was carried out under contract as part of the EPSRC research-funding, project managed by the Newcastle University, on behalf of DTI-Industry, UK.

5. Dogru M., 2008-2009. “An Independent Assessment of the Technical Risks Associated with Biomass Gasification Technology”, project was carried out under contract as part of the DEFRA-UK funding. Project managed by the University of East Anglia, UK.

Ronald Flynn, Founder of True Green Energy Group, said, “We are very happy to have Dr. Murat on our team because he has already been recognized around the world. Moreover for his completion of many industrial projects since 1997 that involved the implementation of a 22MWe waste gasification Anaerobic Digestion and landfill plant in turkey, and the designing and installation of a 4MWe Biomass Gasification Renewable Energy Plant for the University of East Anglia, Norwich, England, United Kingdom. Flynn went on to say, the problem is not in the stars, but in our selves”. We created our circumstances by our past choices. We have both the ability and responsibility to make better choices beginning today and bring our planet back to being clean and green.

True green energy group is a well-organized public company involved in waste management. TGEG contracts involve the collection, transportation, processing, recycling and disposal, of municipal solid waste on a plethora of landfill sites over the next 25-years.

Ronald Flynn, founder, and chairman of the board said, “Our energy consortium includes companies from around the world. These companies include True Bio Electric, CJ consortium, in addition to other green energy technologies from other countries and partners like Voga Brazil, Pacific Tech, True Green Planet, and Spectrum Blue Steel Corporation.

The TGEG green energy consortium estimates that in the first phase of its projects alone it will employ 11,000 people in 3 major provinces in the Philippines. The consortium plans to expand that number to 100,000 within 18 months of the first system being installed in the city of San Fernando Pampanga Philippines. The expansion was made possible by investments made by Pioneer shareholders and CJ Consortium who became stockholders in TGEG and finalized a one billion euro (1,000,000,000.00) line of credit to fund TGEG Bio Green power plants and low cost housing projects.

True Green Energy Group’s strategy is to “de-carbonize” the electric power generation industry by shifting to non-fossil fuel-based energy sources, specifically energy-from-waste. This follows the Energy Policy Act of 2005 and the Renewable Energy Law (RA 9513) of the Philippines that confirms energy-from-waste is renewable, and to build low cost housing for Filipino families.

This press release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of the 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and is subject to the safe harbor created by those sections.

Contact: Bunny Lee

TGEG: +639999989999

Rflynn(at)tgeg(dot)asia

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Perspectives in Care: Medical Trauma in Childhood

Chicago (PRWEB) February 03, 2012

A little boy suffers third-degree burns when a pot of boiling water tips over on him. Doctors immediately sedate him, spend weeks treating his wounds and send the toddler home.

Now his mother can’t get him to go in the kitchen or bathe. He is afraid to engage in daily functions and activities he previously enjoyed. Everything seems to remind the boy of his painful burns and he’s trapped by fears that lead to avoidance.

This is the psychological impact of medical trauma and the focus of an April 20 comprehensive conference hosted by La Rabida Children’s Hospital. Registration is now open.

The conference, Perspectives in Care: Medical Trauma in Childhood, to be held at the Tinley Park Convention Center, was designed for health care professionals, including nurses, educators and others seeking to learn more about the consequences of significant medical events and strategies to improve the quality of care for children who have latent issues.

A La Rabida interdisciplinary team representing the fields of psychology, nursing, speech-language pathology, social work and early intervention planned the event with the goal of highlighting a new field of study in the worlds of psychology and medicine, as well has helping children heal – inside and out.

Conference planners define medical trauma as a child’s or family’s experience of scary, painful, and/or highly distressing medical events and their responses to them.

Judith Simon Prager, Ph.D., one of eight featured speakers, will present Verbal First Aid. All presenters will address varying aspects of psychological trauma resulting from medical events.

Liz Jazwiec, R.N., winner of the American Journal of Nursing 2010 Book of the Year Award, is the closing keynote speaker. Yippee! Another Day in Paradise . . . Driving Negativity out of the Workplace will help participants create positivity at work.

La Rabida’s Brad Stolbach, Ph.D., a nationally recognized expert on post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), will discuss the nuisances of treatment strategies in So What is Trauma-Informed Care Anyway and How Do Know if I’m Providing It?

Chronic Disease Pediatrician Ruby Roy, M.D., and Lindsay Amper, Ph.D., a post-doctoral fellow at La Rabida Children’s Hospital, will also address psychosocial and medical issues related to trauma.

A nursing track will include presenters Melissa Alderfer, Ph.D., the Cancer Center of The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and La Rabida’s Rose Briars, N.D., PNP-BC, CDE.

Amper said experts now know that healing from medically traumatic experiences, like car accidents or burns, is often improved once the survivors work through their emotional triggers.

“A child who has a burn is constantly reminded of trauma because of the physical reminder on their skin,’’ Amper said. “We try to establish a sense of safety and help them to integrate the trauma into their sense of self. We want them to know that, although they will never lose the memory of being burned, eventually the memories and the experience will not be so emotionally distressing.”

Learner objectives have been developed for each session and are available at larabida.org. Objectives also will be listed in the registration materials on the day of the event. Success will be achieved through completed evaluation tools and attendance sign-in sheets.

Register at http://www.larabidamedicaltrauma.eventbrite.com and use promotional discount code “earlybird” before March 15. The fee is $ 160 on and after March 15.

For more information, call 773-753-8649 or 773-753-9605.

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Bowie, MD (PRWEB) February 11, 2012

Angela G. Solomon, Esq., has just released her first book project entitled, The Ultimate Guide for the Network Marketer’s Bride: Get the Love You Desire and Build an Empire. The book, which primarily targets women who are associated with the network marketing industry, is beneficial to any woman that may find it challenging to balance a healthy relationship and build a lucrative business. On Sunday, March 4, 2012, a book launch event will be held for The Ultimate Guide for the Network Marketer’s Bride at Busboys and Poets in Hyattsville, Maryland at 5:00 p.m-7:00 p.m. Angela will be signing books, as well as meeting and greeting guests.

The Ultimate Guide for the Network Marketer’s Bride was written as a result of Angela noticing that couples in network marketing were facing challenges in their relationships because their spouses did not play an active role in the business. “When business associates would see my husband and me working together to build our business they would approach me and ask if I would speak with their wives,” says Angela. Angela says the biggest challenge in helping anybody to understand that network marketing can produce a lucrative future, while building a healthy relationship, is tackling all of the misconceptions that shadow the network marketing industry, which she addresses in the book. In 2009 and 2011, Angela and her husband, who’s network marketing company focuses on telecommunications, were invited to be guest judges on Donald Trump’s widely-watched and highly-rated NBC television show, “The Celebrity Apprentice.”

In addition to writing, Angela speaks to women, nationally. As a wife, mother, and business owner, Angela understands a woman’s desire to “have it all”. Although she will be the first to admit that “having it all” comes with many challenges and sacrifices, Angela’s passion is helping women create the life they desire and making it all work in a way that balances their personal and professional goals. From starting a business to managing careers and relationships, Angela’s advice has been sought by many who appreciate her honest take on life as she knows it. Angela truly believes that The Ultimate Guide for the Network Marketer’s Bride will be beneficial to helping women achieve their life’s goals of having a healthy love life, while building financial security.    

About Angela G. Solomon, Esq.

Angela, a former practicing attorney, has over fourteen years of experience building and maintaining a solid love affair with her husband, Orin, and building a lucrative network marketing business—an often misunderstood industry, which Angela highly credits for helping to establish her family’s financial freedom, as well as for sending her true love.

Prior to network marketing, Angela was a corporate attorney concentrating her practice on business law, helping clients with entity formation, contracts, mergers and acquisitions, as well as franchising and trademarks. Angela also served as Financial and Business Analyst for American Express Financial Advisors in Minneapolis, Minnesota prior to law school. Angela received her Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, and her Jurist Doctorate from George Washington University National Law Center. Angela and her husband are the proud parents of three sons. The Solomons reside in the Washington, D.C. metro area.

For more information on Angela G. Solomon visit her website at http://www.angelagsolomon.com. To purchase the book visit http://www.networkmarketersbride.com.  A portion of the book sale’s proceeds will be donated to Jack and Jill of America Foundation to support youth leadership development programs across the country.

 

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American Fork, UT (PRWEB) February 08, 2012

Certiport (http://www.certiport.com), the leading provider of test delivery services for the global workforce and academic markets, today announced the winners of a certification and essay-based scholarship program for Kansas high school students. The scholarship program compliments a new initiative launched by the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) to help Kansas high school students earn industry-recognized certifications.

The scholarship winners are as follows:

William Ohlde, Clifton-Clyde High School, Instructor Irma Jean Blaha

Bryce Roberts, South Barber 7-12, Instructor Tim Rector

Carmen Resco, Clifton-Clyde High School, Instructor Irma Jean Blaha

Ashley Peterson, Clifton-Clyde High School, Instructor Irma Jean Blaha

MaKayla Stucky, Sedgwick High School, Instructor Darren Crumrine

Details about the Kansas State Scholarship Program: http://www.certiport.com/ksscholar

“Certiport offered this scholarship program to support the statewide focus in Kansas helping to ensure that students achieve challenging academic and technical standards,” said Ray Kelly, CEO, Certiport. “Certification helps to prepare students for skilled, high-demand occupations and the scholarships encourages more students to get certified.”

Scholarship applicants were required to be high school students who had earned credits in approved Kansas State Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. They achieved certification in at least one of the following: Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS), Adobe Certified Associate (ACA), and/or Internet and Computing Core Certification (IC3). In addition, they submitted an original essay on “The value of certification in helping students to become college and career ready upon graduation.”

“Many people can say they know of Microsoft Word and Excel, but few can appreciate the full potential of these programs,” said Ashley Peterson, student winner. “Thanks to Certiport, I can proudly say that I am one of those few.”

The Certiport scholarship program in Kansas will continue in 2011-2012. Eligible students who have certified in at least one of the highlight programs are encouraged to participate.

About Certiport

Certiport is the leading provider of certification exam development, delivery and program management services which include practice tests via MeasureUp® delivered through an expansive network of over 12,000 Certiport Authorized Testing Centers worldwide. Certiport manages a sophisticated portfolio of leading certification programs including: the official Microsoft Office certification program, the Microsoft Technology Associate certification program, the Adobe® Certified Associate certification program, the CompTIA Strata™ IT Fundamentals, the Autodesk Certified User certification program, the Intuit QuickBooks Certified User certification program and the Internet and Computing Core Certification (IC³®). Certiport reliably delivers over two million tests each year throughout the secondary, post-secondary, workforce and corporate technology markets in more than 152 countries and 27 languages worldwide. For more information, please visit http://www.certiport.com or follow Certiport on

Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/certiport.

“Certiport,” “IC³” and “MeasureUp” are registered trademarks of Certiport, Inc. in the United States and other countries. The names of actual companies and products mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.

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Linda C. Mack

Chicago, IL (PRWEB) February 05, 2012

Linda Mack, founder and president of Mack International, a premier retained executive search and strategic family office/human capital management consulting firm, was a moderator and featured panelist at the recent National Family Office Forum, held January 30-31 in Beverly Hills, California.

Produced by World Research Group, the Forum focused on discussion of topics surrounding how both single-and multi-family offices should best structure their investment strategies and operations for greatest effectiveness and a prosperous investment portfolio.

“Forum sessions explored a variety of topics such as the comparative benefits of using a single- or multi-family office structure, building the most optimal governance structure and succession plan to meet a family office’s needs, enhancement tools and best practices for operating and preparing estates, and innovative strategies for enhancing and building portfolios,” said Linda Mack.

Linda Mack moderated and participated in a panel on multi-family evolution and transitioning from a single-family to a multi-family office. Other panelists included Steve Braverman, Co-founder and Managing Director of Pathstone Family Office, John Febert, Founder and President of Febert & Associates, LLC, and Jon Crow, Partner and Senior Client Advisor for Meristem.

The panel discussion focused on identifying and mitigating potential risks for transitioning into a multi-family office or a private trust, and the importance of establishing an action plan for evolving into a new business model, understanding the process and determining the essential steps for a successful transition.

“Before embarking on any significant change, it is vital to approach any evolution of either family office model as a business decision that requires extensive thought and planning,” Mack said. The second critical factor is ensuring a solid cultural fit, which surfaced as being absolutely key for any level of success.”

Linda Mack also was a panelist for a discussion on succession planning and governance best practices, along with Lisa Gray, Managing Member & Founder of Graymatter Strategies, LLC, and Gary Shunk, CEO of Family Wealth Dynamics. The panel discussed the critical importance of effective governance and succession planning in sustaining the family and its legacy into future generations.

“Sustainability and succession planning are core issues for family offices, for they directly affect the longevity of the family office as well as the family’s overall wealth,” added Mack. “Our panel presented a Succession Planning Best PRactices “Top 10″ List that sparked an interactive dialogue with participants, many who shared perspectives and experiences about the best practices they considered most important and challenging.”

Mack continued, “The session also explored the question of how to start the succession planning conversation in a situation where perhaps there is a reluctant patriarch, for example. We reviewed how important it is for family members to reach out continuously through education and dialogue. It’s not unlike skiing down a difficult run – you may fall a number of times, but eventually, you’re moving smoothly and with great velocity. The key is to keep at it. Families are encouraged to take a variety of approaches and maintain open and continued communication to achieve success.”

Forum attendees learned innovative strategies for enhancing their investment portfolios, as well as how to: assess and study the forecasts for global market conditions and secular investments; ensure effective collaboration with advisors; identify and implement best practices for running an estate; establish a strategy to comply with SEC regulations and tax initiatives; assess the benefits of different family office structures; plan for succession; and build an optimal governance structure.

Mack International, LLC, headquartered in Chicago, is a global retained executive search and consulting firm serving clients in the family office/wealth management industry on a national and international basis. For more information, visit http://www.mackinternational.com or call 800.976.0015.

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Reston, VA (PRWEB) February 02, 2012

The Technology Student Association (TSA) will enhance Junior Solar Sprint (JSS) by developing an online resource center for educators funded by a grant awarded by the United States Army Educational Outreach Program (AEOP). In addition to the Junior Solar Sprint program, TSA is involved with several national science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) competitions.

Funded by the US Army since 2001, Junior Solar Sprint offers resources to empower teachers, mentors, and other community members to engage 4th-8th grade youth in the designing, building, and racing of model solar cars. Through JSS, students develop teamwork and problem solving abilities, investigate environmental issues, and gain hands-on STEM skills to build the fastest, most interesting, and best crafted vehicle possible. JSS challenges students to use scientific know-how, creative thinking, experimentation and teamwork.

Historically, Junior Solar Sprint primarily served the northeastern United States through the provision of teacher workshops, sponsorship of area events, and an organized regional championship. During the 2012 program year, TSA will enhance the structure and reach of Junior Solar Sprint to align the program with the Army’s goal of having a national impact on STEM education.

In February of 2012 TSA will commence work on building a new online resource center for Junior Solar Sprint. This will include educational materials, supplementary instructional videos, connections to outside resources, and ‘how to’ guides to implement curriculum and races – everything needed for a teacher or mentor to bring Junior Solar Sprint to youth in their community.

Online teacher/mentor training workshops and an online competition will be in place for the 2013 program year. The goal is to provide resources that will enable teachers and youth across the country to participate in Junior Solar Sprint, beginning in February 2013. TSA’s vision for long-term sustainability involves creating a network of local and regional competitions that will culminate in a national championship event concurrent with the Technology Student Association’s annual conference.

About TSA

TSA is a national organization devoted exclusively to the needs of students interested in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Open to young people enrolled in or who have completed technology education courses, TSA’s membership includes over 150,000 middle and high school students in 2,000 schools spanning 48 states. TSA partners with universities and other organizations to promote a variety of STEM competitions and opportunities for students and teachers. TSA is supported by educators, parents and business leaders who believe in the need for a technologically literate society. From engineers to business managers, our alumni credit TSA with a positive influence in their lives. Visit http://www.tsaweb.org for more information.

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Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.

Reno, Nev. (PRWEB) January 30, 2012

Morrison University in Reno, Nevada announces its Fast Start high school-to-college transition program.

Beginning February 1, 2012, the program is open to second semester high school seniors who meet certain academic and other requirements. Morrison University selects students based on information provided in the student application, including a short essay. Students who are selected to participate will be permitted to take a total of two college-level general education courses at Morrison University at no charge.

“Our Fast Start program provides high school seniors an opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school,” says Morrison University Campus President David Heckeler. “This experience gives the participating students a valuable experience in a university environment.”

“Receiving a high school diploma and pursuing higher educational opportunities is essential to preparing our children for their futures,” says Dr. Heath Morrison, Superintendent for the Washoe County School District. “It is extremely important that we get our children thinking about college at a younger age. The Fast Start Program will be a tremendous asset that will expose our students to college level courses and the rigor involved in a university environment.” (Dr. Morrison is not connected to Morrison University.)

Morrison University offers undergraduate degrees in business and technology fields and a Master of Business Administration. The school is located at 10315 Professional Circle in Reno. For more information and to request an application, please contact Joyce Decker, Director of Admissions, at 775-33-3905 or jdecker(at)morrison.anthem(dot)edu.

About Morrison University

Originally established in 1902, Morrison University is part of Anthem Education, a Phoenix, Arizona-based family of schools and colleges that provide career-focused training and education programs at 23 accredited institutions in 15 states as well as online. The Anthem Education family of schools includes Anthem College, Anthem College Online, Anthem Career College, Anthem Institute, The Bryman School of Arizona, and Morrison University. For more information, visit http://anthem.edu.

For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program, and other important information, please visit our website at http://www.anthem.edu/disclosures.

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Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.

Cleveland Social Security Disability Benefits lawyer Lawrence Disparti

Cleveland, Ohio (PRWEB) January 28, 2012

Ohio residents can turn to a new website from the Cleveland Social Security Disability attorneys of the Disparti Law Group, P.A., to learn more about their eligibility for government benefits.

The site, http://www.socialsecuritydisabilitycleveland.com, features a clean, easy-to-navigate design that allows visitors to easily access information about programs such as Social Security Disability and Supplemental Security Income. The site also explains how the firm’s team of Cleveland disability claims lawyers can help eligible individuals to acquire those benefits.

“The first step in seeking disability benefits is to learn as much as you can about the different types of programs that may be available to you. We believe our new website does an excellent job of providing that information,” said Cleveland Social Security Disability Benefits lawyer Lawrence Disparti, the firm’s founder.

“The next step, of course, is to contact an attorney with not only skill and experience but also a true passion for helping people to obtain the benefits they need to get on with their life.”

The website’s wealth of information includes:

    Practice Areas – Many government programs provide financial assistance to Americans with disabilities, including Social Security Disability (SSD), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), railroad disability (including FELA claims) and veterans’ benefits (including TSGLI benefits). Individuals with short-term and long-term disabilities, widows and widowers and those who are blind are among those who may be eligible. The firm also represents clients in personal injury cases, including car accident and medical malpractice claims.

    Frequently Asked Questions – If your claim was denied, what should you do next? The firm provides an answer to this question and others that are commonly posed by people seeking disability benefits.

    About Our Firm – Learn about the educational and professional backgrounds of the firm’s Cleveland disability benefits attorneys as well as the firm’s team approach to handling cases.

    Contact Us –An online form that can be filled out to schedule a free and confidential consultation with the firm’s lawyers. At this consultation, the firm can review the unique details of your case and discuss the best options and strategies to pursue.

“Filing for government benefits can be a complicated process, and that’s why it’s important to meet with an attorney who focuses on this area of the law,” Disparti said. “Our law firm will be by your side and work tirelessly to make sure you receive the funds you deserve.”

About Disparti Law Group, P.A.

Disparti Law Group, P.A., is a Cleveland Social Security Disability law firm that provides legal assistance to individuals in cases involving Social Security Disability (SSD), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), railroad disability (FELA and RRB claims) and veterans’ benefits (including TSGLI claims). Additionally, the firm handles a variety of personal injury claims, including car accidents, slip-and-fall or premises liability, products liability, medical malpractice, wrongful death, nursing home neglect and inadequate security. The firm serves clients across the U.S., including Florida, Illinois, Georgia, Tennessee, Houston, St. Louis, Washington, D.C., and the Ohio communities surrounding Cleveland, Akron, Canton, Elyria, Lorain, Mentor, Parma, Warren and Youngstown. To learn more about the Cleveland Social Security Disability lawyers of the Disparti Law Group, P.A., call (800) 633-4091 or use the firm’s online contact form.

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©Copyright 1997-

, Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.