SCS PR Latest Client Releases

Garage Living hosts this year’s GTA Exotic Car Show for charity event

2011-06-22T11:41:00.004-05:00

For Immediate Release

Garage Living hosts this year’s GTA Exotic Car Show for charity event

June 24, 2011, TORONTO – This Sunday exotic cars from all over the GTA will be descending on the Garage Living headquarters and showroom for the hottest event of the year— The GTA Exotic Car Show.

Sponsors such as: Ferrari of Ontario, Pfaff Tuning, Grand Touring Automobiles, Steam Whistle Brewery and many others are participating to raise funds for the L.U.C.A.S. Foundation, which helps to provide educational assistance to children with Down Syndrome.

As the host sponsor, Garage Living will be giving away an 8000LB car storage lift, through a Charity Raffle.

“Some event features are a barbeque, car wash, DJ music and hundreds of amazing cars to make this one of the most fun events of the summer,” says Aaron Cash, one of the founders of Garage Living. “It’ll truly be a great event for a great cause.”

THE GTA EXOTIC CAR SHOW - JUNE 26, 2011

WHEN:

- Sunday, June 26, 2011

WHERE:

- Garage Living parking lot, loading docks and showroom (201 Chrislea Road Vaughan, ON)

TIME:

- 11:00AM to 4:00PM

WHAT:

- General admission is $10 / Person

- Show car registration is $20 / Car

- Anyone wanting to showcase an exotic car please arrive on-site no later than 10:30 AM for placement.

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For further information or interviews contact:

Peter Turkington

Strategic Communications Solutions

ON BEHALF OF GARAGE LIVING

Direct Phone: 905.901.9218

Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Not all garage floor coatings are created equal

2011-06-22T11:38:00.000-05:00

For Immediate Release

Not all garage floor coatings are created equal

Knowing the difference is the first step towards an intelligent decision

April 15, 2011, TORONTO – Garage flooring is the most dramatic element of changing the garage from a dusty, dirty and dark space into a clean, bright and welcoming room. Only now, as this trend grows, is it becoming clear that not all garage floor coatings are created equal.

Only the test of time has shown some products to be inferior. When first installed, people often find their finished garage floor looks attractive and clean, regardless of product or method of installation. But after just a couple of months, many of these garage floors begin to fail, becoming worn-looking, pitted, blistered and stained—and no longer the attractive garage floor they thought they had installed. This disappointment could have all been avoided if only they had known the difference prior to making their decision.

“There are a number of points to consider before making a decision about the type of garage flooring you want to install,” says Aaron Cash, co-founder of Garage Living. “First of all, it’s important to consider the type of product being installed. Epoxies, both water and solvent based have been traditionally used in warehouses and commercial or industrial applications and while they are incredibly durable indoors, they often fail in garage environments where the temperature drastically fluctuates throughout the year.”

Epoxies by nature are not UV Stable and as a result will tarnish or change colour from direct or indirect sun light. Most professional coating companies do not warrantee epoxy coatings beyond 2-3 years despite proper preparation of the concrete before the coating is applied to the floor.

Do-it-yourself kits of garage floor coating are much less expensive than professional installed coatings, but are never supported by any warranty and provide very little direction to ensure proper installation. And since the average home owner does not have access to proper equipment or the expertise that is required to prepare the concrete before the coating is applied, the quality of the work is subpar and unsatisfactory. In such cases, it is common for professionals to be called in to remove these failed coatings.

“Our Rhino Polyaspartic floor coating is unlike regular epoxies, and is Ontario’s only one-day floor coating solution with a five-year warranty,” says Aaron Cash. “Rhino is guaranteed to be far superior to regular epoxies or polymer based coatings in terms of durability, longevity, application time and safety. There’s also no odour or mess during or after the installation, ensuring a safe and clean installation for your family, and it can even cover concrete side walls and entrance steps to the house.”

Garage Living uses industrial planetary diamond grinding equipment with a self contained dust collection system. This preparation ensures the coating adheres to the substrate.

Quality floor coating, properly installed, should protect the garage floor from corrosion and make it easy to keep the floor clean and visually appealing for many years.

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For further information or arrange an interview contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions PR
ON BEHALF OF GARAGE LIVING
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Body Form Fitness is a leader in changing lives at any age and fitness level

2011-03-16T16:55:00.000-05:00

For Immediate Release

Body Form Fitness is a leader in changing lives at any age and fitness level

March 16, 2011, Toronto – What makes Body Form Fitness different from larger gyms is that there are no contracts to sign and staff members pay close personal attention to each client’s needs – creating both loyalty and results.

Body Form Fitness clients exercise in ½ hour sessions using Nautilus 2st equipment which is biomechanically correct – ensuring the right muscles are targeted and exercised.

Another differentiating factor is Body Form’s focus on checking client’s health history, medical history, injury history, medications for possible contra indicators, and a full functional assessment.

“We also work closely with health care providers which enables us to customize and design programs to meet the specific needs of our clients and to change their lives,” says Joe Berrill, Director at Body Form Fitness.

At this time of year, the folks at Body Form fitness find themselves helping people deal with the fall-out of mistaken New Year’s Resolutions. Many People start the New Year off with an urge to join a fitness club and sign a contract that’s hard to get out of later. Worse still, they may find themselves with injuries from following a program that doesn’t suit their personal needs.

It is well known that regular exercise is associated with numerous health benefits. Studies show that it reduces the risk of some diseases, increases life expectancy, helps achieve and maintain weight loss, enhances mood, lowers blood pressure, and even improves arthritis. In short, exercise keeps you healthy and makes you look and feel better.

“You just have to go about it the right way, with the right support and the right equipment,” notes Joe. “We work with a diverse group of people; each with a different array of goals and challenges.”

Body Form Fitness’s whole focus is on making preventative changes that lower the possibilities of health issues. They create exercise programs tailored to specific client needs, no matter their fitness level, helping them enjoy increased strength, energy, speed and coordination.

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For further information or interviews contact:

Peter Turkington

Strategic Communications Solutions PR

ON BEHALF OF BODY FORM FITNESS STUDIO

Direct Phone: 905.901.9218

Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Web: www.stratcommsolutions.ca

Facebook: www.facebook.com/stratcommsolutionspr

Twitter: www.twitter.com/SCSPR

Keep your winter accident free—park the car in the garage

2011-03-15T09:35:00.003-05:00

Media Release

For Immediate Release

Keep your winter accident free—park the car in the garage
With an organized garage, there’s room for everything, even the car

March 14, 2011, TORONTO – Winter mornings are frustrating when you leave for work, and discover the vehicle covered in snow with no time to clean it—parking the car in the garage would have prevented this.

Whenever severe snow conditions exist, a decision is required that directly impacts safety. In order to get to work or school on time, does one leave with a snow covered vehicle, or take the time to scrape it off and risk being late.

“Decisions such as these wouldn’t be necessary had the car been parked in the garage,” says Aaron Cash, founder of Garage Living. “Unfortunately, many garages with their endless supply of clutter have become the home’s abyss—a dark hole that has sucked in just about every piece of junk or unwanted item; except the car.”

While there are legal requirements that surround a driver’s visibility, still hundreds of people drive off in the morning without having cleaned off their windows—this puts them and others at risk. The other solution, while the better choice, has its own temptation—taking the time to scrape off the ice and snow puts one behind schedule, and as a result, there is a temptation to rush and drive faster than the conditions allow.

“Over the past several years, I’ve observed firsthand how an attractive, uncluttered, organized garage provides a homeowner with benefits that enhance their lifestyle, and accident prevention is just one more benefit to add to the list,” says Aaron Cash. “Simply by installing wall organization systems that efficiently use the wall space, all clutter can be removed from the garage floor, organized and then neatly stored, while leaving room to park the family car.”

Being able to drive a car right out from the protected shelter of a garage not only saves time, but because the windows are free and clear of ice and snow, increases a driver’s visibility, thus enhancing safety.

“Parking the car in the garage during winter does result in salt infused slush and snow to melt on the garage floor,” says Aaron. “However, installing a floor covering, such as our Rhino Floor Coating, protects the garage floor from corrosion and makes it easy to keep the floor clean and visually appealing all winter long.”

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For further information or interviews contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions PR
ON BEHALF OF GARAGE LIVING
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca
Web: www.stratcommsolutions.ca
Twitter: www.twitter.com/SCSPR
Facebook: www.facebook.com/stratcommsolutionspr

26th Annual Courage Bros. Polar Bear Dip (Canada's largest for charity) Announces Celebrity Guests Colin Mochrie & Deb McGrath

2010-12-31T14:23:00.003-05:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Celebrities support the cold plunge on New Year’s Day
Dippers gear up to jump into Lake Ontario

ONTARIO, OAKVILLE (December 31, 2010) – Hundreds of dippers including celebrities and out-of-towners plan to run into the icy cold waters of Lake Ontario at the 26th Annual Courage Polar Bear Dip on New Year’s Day.

The Courage Polar Bear Dip is Toronto’s most supported New Year’s Day charitable tradition. More than $660,000 has been raised to provide clean water in developing countries since the first dip in 1985. This year’s goal is to raise $150,000 which will complete the Manonga Water and Sanitation Project in Tanzania and bring clean water to 6,000 people.

"The Courage Brothers Polar Bear Dip is proof of what's possible when caring people come together for a meaningful cause--like clean water for Africa,” says Michael Messenger, Executive Vice President of World Vision Canada. “The water projects funded by Polar Bear Dip supporters deliver real and lasting change to vulnerable children and their communities. We're thankful for this incredible partnership.”

Celebrities, including Colin Mochrie and Deb McGrath, will be on hand to cheer on the 600 costumed dippers along with thousands of spectators.

FACTS

What:
26th Annual Courage Polar Bear Dip

Where:
Coronation Park, Oakville
(Lakeshore Road West just east of Third Line)

When:
Saturday January 01, 2011
Registration & Live Music begins at 12:30 p.m.
Costume Contest at 1:15 p.m.
Dip at 2 p.m. sharp

Visual: Celebrities, (including Colin Mochrie and Deb McGrath); 5,000 spectators, 600 costumed dippers running into Lake Ontario; World Vision warm-up tent with water consumption display.

For further information or interviews contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions PR
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Cell Phone: 905.483.0155
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca
Twitter: www.twitter.com/SCSPR

Peter Gilgan makes largest donation in Oakville Hospital Foundation's history

2010-11-01T11:33:00.003-05:00

For Immediate Release

Oakville Hospital Foundation announces $10M donation

October 28, 2010, OAKVILLE -- Today, on the future site of the new Oakville Hospital, The Oakville Hospital Foundation (OHF) announced its first pacesetting donation of $10 million from Peter Gilgan, founder and CEO of Mattamy Homes, and unveiled plans for the new facility.

The new Oakville Hospital will be one of the first new hospitals in Ontario built using the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care's new design guidelines for hospital construction. And, with a list of more than 39,000 pieces of equipment; it will have some of the best medical equipment and technology available.

"Today, I believe we have laid a solid foundation on which our new hospital will be built," says John Oliver, President and CEO, Halton Healthcare Services. "This gift has set a new benchmark for philanthropy in our community - one that will undoubtedly inspire others. Peter, on behalf of all of us working at the hospital and those who will benefit from this new hospital, we thank you so much for your amazing generosity."

The $10 million donation announced today is the largest ever received by the hospital or any other organization in Oakville.

"Peter has been a supporter of Oakville-Trafalgar Memorial Hospital for many years and as a former member of the hospital's Board of Directors he has a strong understanding of the need for this new hospital," continues Mr. Oliver. "It is an honour for us to have the Gilgan name - so clearly associated with landmark innovation and quality, community building and philanthropy - as part of our hospital's heritage. I am pleased to announce the new inpatient tower will be called the Peter Gilgan Patient Care Centre."

The Centre will be home to the Hospital's medical & surgical inpatient units which will offer a full-range of medical and post-surgical specialty care to the community. To reduce the risk of infection and enhance patient privacy and comfort, eighty percent of the hospital's inpatient bedrooms will be designed for single-patient use. The Peter Gilgan Patient Care Centre will support family involvement by including amenities such as family rooms, lounges, shower facilities, kitchenettes and much more.

"For over 10 years, I have had the privilege to be a part of the Oakville Hospital community," explains Mr. Gilgan. "I know firsthand the need for a vibrant new health care centre that will grow, live and thrive and ensure Oakville continues to be one of the most livable communities in the country."

Situated in one of the fastest growing regions in Ontario, Oakville's current hospital can no longer keep up with the needs of its growing community. Building a new healthcare facility that will not only accommodate growth but has sufficient room to expand to meet future needs, is a major step to ensuring quality healthcare is available in Oakville for many years to come.

"This really is a great day for the new Hospital and for the Oakville community," concludes Tina Triano, CEO, Oakville Hospital Foundation. "Peter's contribution is a significant milestone as we embark on a capital campaign to raise $60 million to create a hospital that will set a new standard for healthcare not just in Ontario, but across the country."

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For further information:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions PR
ON BEHALF OF THE OAKVILLE HOSPITAL FOUNDATION
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Marai Vying to become Youngest Elected Official in Halton

2010-10-14T10:50:00.003-05:00

For Immediate Release

Marai Vying to become Youngest Elected Official in Halton

(Oakville) – Twenty-one year old Paul Marai may not have been alive when two of Oakville’s current Catholic Trustees were first elected but Marai believes that young energy and new ideas is exactly what the community needs.

He is the youngest person running for an elected position in Halton Region.

Born and raised in Oakville, Marai is in fact one of the only candidates to have actually graduated from the Halton Catholic School system.

“I have a distinct advantage in understanding what needs to be improved in our schools, as I have experienced them first hand,” says Marai. “I believe bringing a different, more collaborative approach to the board, where parents, teachers and students have more input into what goes on.”

Paul has been active in politics and as a community volunteer since he was 14 years old. In the last seven years he has been the chair of the Oakville Youth Advisory Committee, member of the Holy Trinity School Council, member of the Student Senate, a reader at Mary Mother of God Parish, the Vice-Chair of the Halton Youth Advisory Committee and a member of the Trafalgar Community Policing Committee.

“At doors across Oakville I have heard that people want change”, says Marai. “They want more communication between their representatives, more technology in the classroom and more accountability with their tax dollars – I represent all of these priorities.”

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For more information contact:

Paul Marai
416-300-0947
paul@paulmarai.com

Garage Living says: "Reduce your stress level – organize your garage this fall"

2010-09-26T14:05:00.002-05:00

Media Release

For Immediate Release

Reduce your stress level – organize your garage this fall
Just one of the many benefits of organizing

September 27, 2010, TORONTO – In the fall, it’s common for stress levels to soar, as it is back to work and back to school—organizing your garage is one great way to reduce stress and redeem time.

Could you imagine what life would be like if you were asked to get something from the garage that you hadn’t used for months and you find it in mere seconds? Why that would be utopia, like a dream come true. But reality is vastly different. The average family dreads hearing the words “it’s in the garage,” because the average garage is in chaos. Typically, a garage is cluttered with toys, tools, junk, and stuff that are no longer wanted in the home, so they get tossed in the garage with no semblance of order.

“It’s a mess – help! With a family of five, we have a lot of kid’s toys strewn about all over our one-car garage and no room for the car,” is what one family wrote to Garage Living, Toronto’s leading garage organization and flooring company.

“Getting letters and comments like this are a common occurrence for us,” says Aaron Cash, founder of Garage Living. “We live in a fast-paced society where schedules allow for so little spare time and as a result, a cluttered garage can cause a family undue stress and can lead to some nasty arguments.”

Most Canadians are aware that long-term stress can help cause a variety of health problems, a list that includes high blood pressure and heart disease. While there may be some stress-related activities that can’t be avoided, removing those that can, such as organizing a garage, can aid substantially to a living a healthier life.

“People get stressed just looking at the mess in their garage and get overwhelmed thinking about what needs to be done,” says Aaron Cash. “But we change all that by taking away their stress, as we have teams that can remove the junk, de-clutter the zone and deliver, in just days, an organized garage that most people only dream about.”

The old adage, “a place for everything and everything in its place,” should be no different for the garage. After all, a tidy and organized garage is all about lifestyle and getting more enjoyment out of life.

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For further information or arrange an interview contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF GARAGE LIVING
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca
Web: www.stratcommsolutions.ca
Twitter: www.twitter.com/SCSPR
Facebook: www.facebook.com/stratcommsolutionspr

Slowing down the aging process - Body Form Fitness has it all figured out

2010-09-06T13:52:00.004-05:00

For Immediate Release

Slowing down the aging process
With expert coaching it can be as simple as exercising once a week

September 7, 2010, TORONTO - As Baby Boomers age, the dreaded days of increased health issues and joint aches edge closer-what most people don't realize is that they can slow the aging process down.

While aging plays a role in the overall degeneration of health, a more significant player is our sedentary lifestyle. Our bodies were not designed to sit eight hours at a desk and several hours on a couch each day. The accumulative impact of a lifestyle like this takes its toll on the human body, eventually leading to lethargy, acceleration of muscle and joint degeneration, and greater susceptibility to injury, pain, illness, and contraction of diseases.

The good news-it doesn't have to be that way-just a small change in lifestyle. With expert coaching it can be as simple as exercising once a week.

"It's no secret that exercise is an important component to a healthy life and longevity. What's misunderstood is that after years of inactivity, how much and what kind of exercise is best - what's really needed is a planned program that rebuilds muscle strength, restores healthy muscle ratios, and helps to prevent injury," says Joe Berill, a Post Rehabilitation Conditioning Specialist and Director of Body Form Fitness. "For most Baby Boomers, making exercise and strength building a weekly event is a lifestyle change, but the benefits of getting healthy and maintaining good health are huge."

Often overlooked, is how building muscle strength decreases joint pain while simultaneously heighten the immune system.

"The explanation for this is simple," says Joe Berill. "Proper exercise that builds muscle strength creates little tears in the muscle. Naturally, the body's immune system immediately goes to work to repair the muscle tears, and in doing, not only repairs the muscle, but builds the immune system-it even leads to weight loss."

Every now and then, after years of little physical activity, people will get the urge to exercise. Perhaps it's because they're frustrated by their continual weight gain, or they're under doctor's orders, or just wanting to get in shape, so they join a gym and for a short time and feverishly workout. Why a short time? Because most grow discouraged when they don't see results fast enough, or due to lack of knowledge or guidance, injure themselves.

"Our practice has shown that one-on-one coaching by an exercise specialist not only helps to prevent injury, it educates the patient and brings the necessary results to achieve their desired goals," says Joe. "No matter their age, it reinforces a lifestyle change that makes exercise an integral part of the ongoing process of building and maintaining a healthy body."

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For further information or to arrange an interview contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions PR
ON BEHALF OF BODY FORM FITNESS
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Marai running for Catholic School Board Trustee

2010-08-19T08:56:00.003-05:00

For Immediate Release
August 19, 2010

Marai running for Catholic School Board Trustee

(Oakville) - Paul Marai joined the race for Halton Catholic District School Board (HCDSB) Trustee on Wednesday.

A lifelong resident of Oakville, Paul attended Holy Family Elementary School and Holy Trinity Secondary School. He went on to acquire an Honours B.A. in Economics and International Relations at the University of Toronto.

His family has always been active in Catholic Education in Oakville, his mother is a retired elementary teacher for the board, and his sister is a current teacher in Oakville.

Paul is a small business owner and is an active member of the Oakville community. His past involvement includes being a Member of the Holy Trinity School Council, Chair of the Oakville Youth Advisory Committee, a Member of the Halton Catholic School Board Student Senate and a reader at Mary Mother of God Parish.

"I believe trustees, parents and students are all one team," says Marai. "We are blessed to live in such a beautiful community as Oakville and we must work together to give our kids the best educational opportunities."

Marai is committed to five priorities. He is advocating for:

1. Better Communication between the school board and parents
2. Greater use of Technology in the Classroom
3. A Responsible and Transparent School Board Budget accessible to you
4. Improved Test Scores for Oakville Schools
5. Implementation of an advanced Financial Literacy curriculum

"We need to infuse fresh ideas into the Halton Catholic School Board. The HCDSB must identify characteristics of the most successful school systems around the world and implement what works," says Marai. "I want our children to not only successfully compete against their peers in Ontario but globally. Only with better schools will we have a brighter future."

For more on these policy initiatives and his campaign please visit www.paulmarai.com

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For further information contact:

Paul Marai
416-300-0947
paul@paulmarai.com

Garage Living helps cottage owners stay organized

2010-07-27T12:59:00.003-05:00

As we approach the long weekend, many families in the GTA will be travelling to cottage country for a relaxing get-away.

A cottage get-away can involve many activities.
- Building a campfire
- Roasting hotdogs on sticks for supper
- Making s'mores
- Going boating
- Repair and maintenance work on the cottage

The bottom line is, a cottage should be a respite from the hectic day-to-day life of living in the city or suburbs.

Having done work on many homes and garages in the GTA, Garage Living has been getting referrals to homes in cottage country - Muskoka, Barrie (Lake Simcoe), Collingwood, Orillia, etc. They've brought their garage organization and storage expertise to cottage boat houses - helping cottage owners spend less time tidying or cleaning and more time on fun family activities.

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Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions PR
ON BEHALF OF GARAGE LIVING
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Brian Burton announces candidacy for Ward 4 Oakville Town Council position

2010-07-26T15:04:00.002-05:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Long-time Oakville resident Brian Burton announces candidacy for Ward 4 Town Councillor.

OAKVILLE - July 26, 2010 - Repeated cost increases and threats to the Natural Heritage System threaten to spoil both the lifestyle and landscape of one of Canada's most sought-after municipalities, says Brian Burton, who announced his candidacy today for Ward 4 Town Councillor in Oakville.

"Two of the last three budgets have seen spending increases of 8% and 12%, and the projected budget for 2011 is another 8%." said Brian, a long-time resident of Oakville, "We have to bring spending more in line with the population changes or face serious tax increases."

"It was an eight-year battle to get the Province to turn over 1,200 acres of North Oakville land to Conservation Halton to protect Ward 4 from becoming victim to yet more urban sprawl. It will require constant vigilance to ensure the Natural Heritage System remains intact, does not get turned into a site for infrastructures and does not get nibbled away at the edges as have previous green spaces."

Other issues that concern Brian are improving transparency at Town Hall especially for Oakville Hydro and standing up for the interests of families and seniors.

For the past 8 years, Brian has been a citizens' representative on Committees for Development Charges, the North Oakville Secondary Plan, Biosolids and the mid-Halton Plant Expansion. As a result of his expertise, there has been a substantial increase in the amount and timing of revenue from development charges and significantly reduced operating costs of the sewage treatment plant. He has also been a tireless advocate for issues of concern to Oakville residents; his voice helped ensure the moratorium was placed on the incineration project and helped stop the extravagant plans for a new Halton Town Hall.

About Brian Burton

Brian has lived in Ward 4 since 1989. He has an engineering degree from the University of Toronto. Brian worked as president and executive vice-president for global engineering firms in Asia, Europe, North and South America and across Canada before settling back in Oakville. There he built a successful manufacturing business that provided jobs for 40 people. Brian is also a community volunteer with the Oakville/Burlington Cancer Society and with Oakvillegreen. Brian is now retired from business; he and his wife Diane have two grown children.

For more information:

To learn more about Brian Burton and his platform, please visit his website: www.brian4ward4.ca or www.brianburton.ca

To interview Brian, contact him directly:

By phone at 905-827-7554

By email at brian@brian4ward4.ca or brianburton@eol.ca

Walk'N Comfort's new 3D orthotic casting technology means custom orthotics in just days

2010-07-16T11:49:00.002-05:00

For Immediate Release

Truly custom made orthodics in just days-not weeks
Walk'N Comfort's new 3D orthotic casting technology makes it possible

July 16, 2010, TORONTO - Walk'N Comfort offers truly custom made orthotics, and in less time than anyone else in the GTA.

Very few foot clinics in Toronto offer a truly "custom made" foot orthotic.

"Typically, in the orthodic's industry, 90 per cent of orthotics are sent to an orthotics manufacturing lab and take several days or even weeks to produce," says Mike Gaspar, CEO, Managing Director of Walk'N Comfort. "But under the guise of custom made orthotics, many orthotic labs use prefabricated orthotic shells from an inventory, or library of shells, choosing the one that fits closest to the client's mold."

In an effort to provide clients with quality footwear that result in healthy feet, Walk'N Comfort is committed to manufacturing orthotics that are truly "custom made." So, to overcome the perception that all foot clinics are alike, assure quality and speed up processing time, Walk'N Comfort implemented an industry leading, onsite state-of-the-art orthotic manufacturing system.

"Walk'N Comfort is unique in that patients can take advantage of our 3D custom orthotic casting, molding and fabrication system which allows us to provide a finished product in just days rather than weeks" says Mike Gaspar. "This unique technique captures a true 3-dimensional impression of the foot in both neutral non-weight bearing and weight bearing positions. Placing the two images on top of one another instantly provides a comprehensive visual analysis that helps to not only educate the patient, but to give us valuable information which we use in manufacturing the orthotics."

Additionally, this 3D technology keeps a digital copy of a client's foot casts (mold) in the on-site system - a great feature if you ever want to compare changes in the feet over time or if a new or replacement orthotic is needed quickly.

Since the average person takes 8,000 to 10,000 steps each day, and 75 per cent of North Americans experience foot health problems of varying degrees at some point in their lives, finding quality foot care professionals that can educate and assist in foot health should be made a priority.

"With the industry's reputation for taking weeks to produce a custom orthotic, Walk'N Comfort's ability to produce quality, yet truly custom made orthotics in just days, is an exciting break through," says Mike Gaspar.

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For further information or to arrange an interview contact:

Peter Turkington

Strategic Communications Solutions PR

ON BEHALF OF WALK N COMFORT

Direct Phone: 905.901.9218

Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Latest news from Walk 'N Comfort - Healthy feet are the first step toward a healthy body

2010-06-02T11:50:00.000-05:00

For Immediate Release

Healthy feet are the first step toward a healthy body

June 2, 2010, TORONTO – Feet are the foundation to the entire body. Just as a building's structural integrity depends on a solid footing or foundation, the body's health is largely dependent upon the health of the feet.

Foot deformities, infections and injuries not only limit mobility, but detrimentally affect the knees, hips and other parts of the body. Only recently have people begun to realize the significance of the connection between healthy feet and a healthy body.

This is not newly discovered information, as Socrates years ago pointed out the integral connection between the two when he said, "When our feet hurt, we hurt all over."

"Foot problems can decrease a person's ability to enjoy many activities in life," says Ray Rasouli, who for over 25 years has specialized in the design and manufacture of orthopedic footwear. "Fortunately, many of these foot problems can be easily prevented or treated by using properly fitted orthopedic footwear, custom foot orthotics or other various foot care solutions."

Many people live their lives with unnecessary acute or chronic pain in their feet, ankles, knees, hips, back and even into the base of the neck. Early in life, symptoms go unnoticed, but it's the cumulative affect or wear and tear that eventually leads to discomfort and pain. Since all these health problems could stem from issues with the feet, a quick visit to a foot specialist could avoid or resolve them.

Companies such as Walk'N Comfort, located at the intersection of Jane Street and Rutherford Road in Vaughn, specialize in foot care. They believe that a healthy body starts with healthy feet.

"Like a finger print, a foot is unique. Every arch is a different height and a different length – one leg could be slightly longer than the other – each, if left without custom fitted footwear for proper support, could lead to health problems later on," says Ray Rasouli. "Assuring that your feet are healthy and kept that way is quite simple – get an assessment by a professional Chiropodist."

"A Chiropodist is a primary care professional practicing in podiatric medicine that specializes in assessment, management and prevention of diseases and disorders of the foot, and is an essential member of the inter-professional healthcare team at Walk'N Comfort," says Mike Gaspar, Manager, Walk'N Comfort. "In an effort to help people know whether they need orthodics, we provide free foot evaluations – no strings attached."

Once an evaluation is done and it's determined that an orthodic is needed, the client chooses whether they want to proceed and have one made. Once the decision is made to move forward, a cast is taken of the client's foot.

Typically, in the orthodic's industry, 98 per cent of the casts are sent to an orthodics lab and take several days and even weeks to produce. Walk'N Comfort is unique in that patients can take advantage of their industry leading 3D custom orthotic casting, molding and fabrication system. This state-of-the-art equipment allows them to keep their foot casts on-site, and enables them to produce a finished product in as little as forty-five minutes.

"In the end, it's all about the experience," says Mike Gaspar. "The patient gets friendly service and quality custom footwear, but at a fraction of the costs of what's typical in the industry."

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For further information or interviews contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions PR
ON BEHALF OF WALK 'N COMFORT
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Latest news from Garage Living - New home buyers want to see garage organization options in model homes

2010-05-27T13:32:00.001-05:00

For Immediate Release

New home buyers want to see garage organization options in model homes

May 27, 2010, TORONTO – Builders should capitalize on the trend by home owners who want neat and organized garages by offering garage storage and organization solutions.

It's nothing new for builders to offer buyers choices – by providing a myriad of flooring, cabinetry, and trim options, a builder can customize a home to meet the unique tastes and budgets of each purchaser.

"It makes total sense for home builders to offer garage organization features in new homes," says Aaron Cash, co-founder of Garage Living in Vaughan. "People enjoy visiting model homes because it allows them to visually conceive a home's potential making it the perfect environment to introduce a variety of garage storage solutions."

It's a well known marketing fact that when consumers see, touch and taste a product, they are more likely to purchase it. So when builders display and offer garage storage and organization solutions, it creates a desire for the products – unless shown, most new home buyers know very little about the potential of their garage.

"This was the reason why Garage Living built a 3,000-square-foot showroom," says Aaron Cash. "We wanted to show home owners how they could enhance their lifestyle simply by making the garage one of the most used and functional rooms of the entire home. Whatever the dream, a garage can be more than just a place to store the car; it can be a party room, a work shop, or even a home theatre."

There are a number of advantages to the home owner when builders include these kinds of solutions.

No longer does the garage have to be the final frontier of a home's renovation. The new owner can enjoy the benefits of being organized and clutter free from the moment they take possession. When these options are built into a new home, it makes owning an organized garage affordable because the cost can be rolled into a mortgage.

For ideas in garage organization and how to turn a garage into a showroom atmosphere, visit Twitter at www.twitter.com/GarageLiving or www.garageliving.ca or visit their display outside the Bass Pro in Vaughan Mills Mall.

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Auto clubs drive the garage culture

2010-04-20T20:52:00.001-05:00

For Immediate Release

Auto clubs drive the garage culture

April 21, 2010, TORONTO – In today's society a garage has become more than just a garage, it's a culture – and one of the major forces driving this culture is auto clubs.

No longer is the garage just a place to stick junk, store off-season equipment and park a car; if there's room. It's so much more – it's become an extension of the home and a place to fix a car, hold a barbeque, watch sports on the big screen or show-off a collector car.

Take for example, vintage auto clubs like the Corvette Club of Ontario (CCO) whose members are meticulous about their cars; and just like their cars the garages that store them are immaculate and uniquely customized. Fittingly, the garage becomes the showroom to feature their vintage vehicle.

Garage Living, new sponsors of CCO and hosts of their most recent General Meeting, believe that organizations like CCO have largely influenced the boom in garage renovations.

"Collector vehicles and customized garages really do go together like salt and pepper," says Aaron Cash, founder of Garage Living in Vaughan. "Just as a collector car reflects its owner, the garage reflects the vehicle – a Rolex doesn't fit a cheap suit, neither does shoving an expensive vintage automobile into the midst of a cluttered garage."

CCO, Canada's first and largest Corvette Club, formed in 1962, and auto clubs like them exist to bring people together through a variety of auto-related events, in order to have fun. Out of these events, similar interests are shared and friendships are birthed. This often leads to members gathering at another's home and hanging out, and what better place for a car collector to hang out than the garage.

"With experienced garage consultation and implementation of a number garage organization products, the garage can neatly store all the off-season equipment and still make it the show-piece that car enthusiasts can be proud of," says Aaron Cash. "Installing items like slatwall and cabinets will keep tools and items neatly organized, and in their right spot; coating the garage floor with a product such as Floortex, will make it easy to clean up and keep shiny, giving it that 'showroom' look."

For ideas in garage organization and how to turn a garage into a showroom atmosphere, visit Twitter at www.twitter.com/GarageLiving or www.garageliving.ca.

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For further information or arrange an interview contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

2010-04-19T10:11:00.001-05:00

For Immediate Release

Splash: An Introvert's guide to being seen, heard and remembered goes global

April 12, 2010, MILTON - Released at the end of 2009, Splash, an introvert's guide to being seen, heard and remembered, has just been listed on Amazon UK (www.amazon.co.uk).

“We’ve gone international,” says Splash’s author, Carole Cameron. “Now folks across ‘the pond’ can dip their toe in and see if they’d like to take the plunge and learn how to excel as an introvert.”

Splash, is a book written to provide introverts a pathway to take control of their lives, learn new habits, and choose behaviours that move them toward their life goals. After only their second week, Splash grabbed The Globe and Mail's # 2 spot as best selling business book and has unwittingly become a resource for managers and top executives.

"As an introvert myself, I found that there was a lack of information in the business marketplace designed to help even the most successful introvert reach their personal and professional best," says Carole Cameron, who is also the Director of Creative Performance Solutions. "As a Human Resource Management, Training and Development, and Performance Consultant, I spent years researching this subject – writing this book makes the informative insights and tips that I've learned accessible to a wider audience."

Further enhancing Splash’s international credentials is the recently launched www.make-a-splash.ca. On this site there are answers to commonly asked questions that will challenge previously held perceptions and understanding of introverts. For instance, one question asks if there's a difference between being shy and being introverted.

There are also informative articles and personal success stories that will encourage introverts to implement new strategies and exercises that can lead to personal growth. And for the individual who is trying to communicate with introverts, it provides insights that help you to connect.

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For more information, please contact:

Peter Turkington, Strategic Communications Solutions
Primary Phone: 905-901-9218
E-mail: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Garage Living at the International Home and Garden Show March 18 to 21

2010-03-17T15:20:00.002-05:00

MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 16, 2010

An organized garage saves time and makes gardening simpler

March 16, 2010, TORONTO –Some consider the task of gardening and spring clean up arduous, while others eagerly anticipate its coming – but either way, with better organization gardening can be made simpler.

For the home owner who doesn’t have a gardening shed, springtime usually begins with searching for the gardening tools. After all, stuff tends to accumulate in a garage over the winter, so it’s not unusual for it to become cluttered and stuffed full with household items. Items such as, old VCRs and TVs, furniture and used appliances, all seem to get thrown into the garage when they’re no longer wanted or needed.

“It really is amazing what gets thrown into a garage – I’ve seen just about everything from old sofas to boxes of files that haven’t been touched for over 10 years; from fishing bait and sports equipment that’s been unintentionally buried in a corner and rotting,” says Aaron Cash, founder of Garage Living in Vaughan. “But there’s good news; with a little organization, much of the clutter can be avoided saving time and inconvenience, making it easy to find the much needed gardening tools.”

An organized and clean garage allows for prep work to be done in advance. Just think; pots could be prepared with stone and soil weeks ahead, just waiting for that eventful day or weekend. Additionally, with no time required to search for the right tool, gardening needs can be tended to easily and quickly.

“One of our clients had us build in their garage a workstation for their gardening activities, saying it was a dream come true and that there was so much room that she could really enjoy a Saturday afternoon in there,” says Mr. Cash. “She was pleased how the slatwall kept all the tools organized in their right spot and how the Floortex material which she had applied to the garage floor, made it so easy to clean up and keep shiny.”

Having a place to stack and store flower pots, and keep soil, peat moss, and fertilizing products makes gardening so much simpler. Everything can be accessed quickly and easily making repotting of plants and tending to gardens, convenient and enjoyable.

For more ideas, visit Garage Living’s booth at the International Home and Garden Show, March 18 – 21 at the Toronto International Centre or go to www.garageliving.ca.

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For further information or arrange an interview contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Garage Living shows how auto storage at home can pay - tax free

2010-02-03T12:40:00.001-05:00

MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 1, 2010

When a garage is more than just a garage
Garage Living shows how auto storage at home can pay - tax free

February 1, 2010, TORONTO - For a few years now, homeowners have begun to realize the potential of a garage, but for the discerning owner with a collector vehicle, vintage or elite sports car, a custom designed and fitted garage has a huge upside - it's an investment that pays back.

Putting a car in storage for the winter can be a costly venture, as it's an expense that reoccurs annually. While winter storage protects a vehicle and preserves the investment, the cost is unredeemable. Retrofitting a home's garage does quite the opposite - not only can it be designed to protect expensive vehicles; any increase to a home's value is a tax-free benefit to the homeowner.

"Typically, the ongoing expense of winter storage of vehicles, far surpass the cost of retrofitting a home's garage," says Aaron Cash. "By making use of the walls and ceiling it is easy to increase the useable floor space and improve the curb appeal of the home and garage for much less."

By keeping the car close and accessible, it's convenient for use or to perform off-season improvements.

"There are so many benefits to garage storage and organization, however, for the homeowner that's used to paying out of pocket for seasonal vehicle storage, there's a huge upside when it's stored at home," says Aaron. "The costs associated with turning a home's garage into the ideal storage facility merely become an investment into one's primary residence - an investment that's fully redeemable at a later time."

In addition to supplying and installing wall organizers, overhead storage units and flooring products, Garage Living also offers car lifts that can be used to store a seasonal vehicle while still allowing other vehicles to be parked inside. This is the most popular and reliable lift in North America, and does not need to be anchored to the floor. With three drip trays, one jack tray, a caster kit and ability to safely store vehicles both on top and beneath the lift, it is clearly multi-functional.

Should you want to learn more, Garage Living will be an exhibitor at the Canadian National Auto Show, February 12 - 21 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre or go to www.garageliving.ca.

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For further information or arrange an interview contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Introvert's guide to being seen, heard and remembered goes global

2010-01-19T13:28:00.002-05:00

Jan 14, 2010 14:56 ET

Splash launches new website – with a twist

Introvert’s guide to being seen, heard and remembered goes global

Attention: Assignment Editor, Books Editor, Business/Financial Editor, Lifestyle Editor, News Editor

MILTON, ONTARIO, MEDIA RELEASE--(Marketwire - Jan. 14, 2010) - Released just over seven weeks ago, Splash, an introvert's guide to being seen, heard and remembered, has just launched their new website www.make-a-splash.ca.

Splash, is a book written to provide introverts a pathway to take control of their lives, learn new habits, and choose behaviours that move them toward their life goals. After only their second week, Splash grabbed The Globe and Mail's # 2 spot as best selling business book and has unwittingly become a resource for managers and top executives.

Through their newly launched website, Splash has made information about introverts, for introverts, more accessible.

"As an introvert myself, I found that there was a lack of information in the business marketplace designed to help even the most successful introvert reach their personal and professional best," says Carole Cameron, Director of Creative Performance Solutions. "As a Human Resource Management, Training and Development, and Performance Consultant, I spent years researching this subject - launching www.make-a-splash.ca makes the informative insights and tips that I've learned accessible to a wider audience."

On this site there are answers to commonly asked questions that will challenge previously held perceptions and understanding of introverts. For instance, one question asks if there's a difference between being shy and being introverted.

There are also informative articles and personal success stories that will encourage introverts to implement new strategies and exercises that can lead to personal growth. And for the individual who is trying to communicate with introverts, it provides insights that help you to connect.

/For further information:
www.make-a-splash.ca / www.twitter.com/SplashBook / www.stratcommsolutions.ca / www.twitter.com/SCSPR/

IN: ECONOMY, EDUCATION, LABOUR, SOCIAL, OTHER

For more information, please contact

Peter Turkington, Strategic Communications Solutions
Primary Phone: 905-901-9218
E-mail: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Courage Polar Bear Dip on Breakfast Television

2009-12-21T07:16:00.000-05:00

The 25th Annual Courage Brother's Polar Bear Dip is doing their annual promo dip on Breakfast Television this morning. Always a great segment. BT has a huge viewership in the GTA and it's a great way to get info to people who might want to come to the event on Jan 1.

One of the reasons this event is so good for media is that it's a fantastic visual.

Toronto area Courage Bros. Polar Bear Dip makes life better in Rwanda

2009-11-18T10:52:00.002-05:00

Annual Toronto area Courage Brothers' Polar Bear Dip makes life better in Rwanda - http://ow.ly/Do4q

Check out the Courage Brothers' Polar Bear Dip on Oakville.com - http://ow.ly/Dcez

2009-11-18T10:02:00.002-05:00

Check out the Courage Brothers' Polar Bear Dip on Oakville.com - http://ow.ly/Dcez

Canada's largest Polar Bear Dip for Charity makes a difference in Rwanda

2009-11-11T15:47:00.000-05:00

MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 11, 2009

The Courage Brothers’ Polar Bear Dip makes life better in Rwanda
Fresh water wells and reservoirs reduce the need for human pipe lines

November 11, 2009, OAKVILLE – Todd and Trent Courage, founders of the annual Courage Brothers’ Polar Bear Dip for World Vision, visited Rwanda this past summer and saw firsthand how donations to The Courage Brothers’ Polar Bear Dip have made life better in Rwanda.

This year, the January 1st tradition will be the 25th anniversary of The Courage Brothers Polar Bear Dip, Canada’s largest charitable dip raising money to support fresh water projects in developing countries around the world, providing solutions which improve quality of life. To date, this event has raised over $420,000 – last year alone it raised over $55,000.

“Visiting Kahi, Rwanda and seeing life there with my own eyes has changed everything for me,” says Todd Courage. “The image of watching hundreds of children carrying big yellow buckets full of water, walking literally miles to bring it back to their towns and villages, has been permanently etched in my mind – it’s like a human pipeline.”

Due to persistent droughts in the Umutara region of Rwanda, the majority of the population has been left without reliable access to safe water. According to a recent survey, two thirds of the population relies on contaminated water collected from shallow hand-dug wells, swamps and ponds. As a result, hundreds of children regularly suffer from recurring water-borne diseases such as diarrhea, intestinal worms and painful skin rashes.

“In North America, it’s all about convenience, as we can access clean water with ease -- a mere turn of a tap or twist of a cap – but in Rwanda, accessing clean water is all about survival,” observes Todd. “Everyday, every child devotes large chunks of time walking miles to waterholes (waterholes that are often polluted), because if they didn’t, they would die.”

Due to HIV/AIDS and genocide, life in Rwanda is very different than life here in Canada. For instance, it’s not the dads that are the heads of the majority of households, it’s the children. Among other factors, malnutrition impacts 45 percent of the population, and with an average life span of 45 years, the population is young. And one of the major underlying factors that affect their ability to have healthy lives is access to clean water.

“Water is the essence of life – it prevents disease and sustains life” says Trent Courage. “And this is the reason for The Courage Brothers Polar Bear Dip for World Vision and why 500 crazy people jump into the icy-cold waters of Lake Ontario every January 1; it’s water for water.”

Funds raised at the 24th and 25th annual Courage Brothers' Polar Bear Dip events will help provide a dependable source of clean water for the people of Kahi in the Umutara region of Rwanda. By drilling new wells and building reservoirs, the Kahi Water Project will bring safe water close to the people who live in the community. The new water system will reduce the suffering caused by drinking dirty water and save children hours of wasted time, which can now be spent at school.

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To schedule an interview contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
Public Relations Specialists
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Fax: 1.866.384.7384
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca
Web: www.stratcommsolutions.ca
Follow us on Twitter for PR tips and advice - @SCSPR

Introverts benefit a company in ways extraverts seldom do

2009-10-25T15:13:00.004-05:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA RELEASE

October 25, 2009

Introverts benefit a company in ways extraverts seldom do

October 25, 2009, TORONTO - While it's true that introverts can be easily overlooked by their employers and peers, one should never mistake their quietness as lack of skill, creativity or intelligence - evidence suggests quite the opposite.

"It is not unusual for introverts to have the right answer, or the perfect solution, or a great idea, but getting it out there for others to see is another story," says Carole Cameron, Director of Creative Performance Solutions (CPC), consultant and author of Splash, An introvert's guide to being seen, heard and remembered. "Because an introvert tends to let others shine and is less likely to vocalize their own achievements or corporate contributions, it is easy for them to be overlooked by even the most discerning corporate executives or management team. But their input should not be underestimated or go unnoticed, as it's often well thought out and developed."

It is not unusual for introverts to be perceived as quiet, shy, private, aloof, snobbish, reserved, lacking confidence, lacking ideas, can't interact, and many other not too complimentary descriptions, but these are merely inaccurate impressions. Anyone holding to one of these above persuasions could lead them to overlooking the likes of Bill Gates, Ayn Rand, Warren Buffett, Carl Jung, George Lucas, Pierre Elliott Trudeau and President Barack Obama - all introverts. The latter, during the most recent financial crisis in the U.S., brought calm, hope, and decisive action to a nation in need - suddenly being smart, classy, and quietly thoughtful has become trendy.

Forming stereo-typed impressions of introverts and extroverts is dangerous. For instance, to think that extroverts are confident and introverts are good listeners is a generalization that is completely misleading.

"This is perhaps the most limiting misconception about introverts and introversion," says Carole Cameron. "Introversion is not really about confidence, but it can sure look like it. In reality, there are certainly many confident introverts in the world. Just as there are many insecure extraverts."

Unlike extraverts though, introverts can come across as hard to get to know or to appreciate. But, one charming and endearing quality of introverts is that they don't "give it all away" at once. They don't freely divulge all their inner wisdom. There's a courting that must take place first to build trust; this creates an environment for open dialogue.

"Getting to know an introvert is like peeling back the layers of an onion, or like digging for hidden treasure," says Carole Cameron. "The more you peel, the more you dig, the more you discover the great value they bring to the workplace; such as their ability to be keen observers, sensitive listeners, comfortable with empowering others and letting others shine, and to work independently,.."

Because introverts are comfortable operating behind the scenes, and don't need to be in the spot-light, they can easily be underestimated and give the wrong impression, Because they tend to focus their energy inward, their best stuff tends to be on the inside, right where no one can see it. Extraverts process ideas "on the outside" as in "thinking out loud". Introverts process ideas and thoughts "on the inside".

Organizations that take time to nurture relationships with introverts may discover untapped resources that provide a wealth of information.

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For further information or interviews contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
Public Relations Specialists
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Fax: 1.866.384.7384
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca
Web: www.stratcommsolutions.ca
Follow us on Twitter for PR tips and advice - @SCSPR

Strategic Communications Solutions PR client MyPhield Arthritis Relief

2009-10-25T14:31:00.005-05:00

MyPhield Arthritis relief uses BioResonance to treat and relieve arthritis pain. Al Kotowich explains on Breakfast Television Winnipeg - http://ow.ly/wfCC

Strategic Communications Solutions PR client - Courage Brothers' Polar Bear Dip for World Vision

2009-10-25T14:23:00.004-05:00

The 25th Annual Courage Brothers' Polar Bear Dip for World Vision in the Oakville Beaver - http://ow.ly/wfNi

Todd and Trent Courage, founders of the Dip recently visited Rwanda to see the impact the funds raised by their annual event are having.

Leap for it” isn’t just a tag line, it’s a corporate philosophy

2009-10-09T12:00:00.002-05:00

MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 9, 2009

Leap for it” isn’t just a tag line, it’s a corporate philosophy

October 9, 2009 -- Anyone who's been in business for a while knows that cold calling is a slow and tedious process.

"It doesn't make you many friends either," says Marcus Miller, founder and president of LEAPJob, the GTA's leading sales and marketing recruitment firm.

Up until about four years ago, LEAPJob utilized all the traditional methods of business prospecting. Cold calling was a large component. However, sensing that the business world was cooling on cold calls, Marcus and the team at LEAPJob moved to a new business model - one that included a focus on the internet and business networking.

To date, it's been extremely successful.

"Each and every day we work with the best and the brightest sales and marketing professionals and help them advance in their careers," says Marcus.

LEAPJob's approach is simple:

* Get it right - understand the client, market, and candidates
* Give choice - present clients multiple candidates for any one position
* Build relationships - become a resource that clients will call again and again (in it for the long haul)

LEAPJob's focus on building relationships helps keep clients happy and also has a positive impact on business prospecting.

Business networking allows LEAPJob to get into people's circles of influence and build credibility.

"It's a necessity to build rapport and trust," says Marcus. "The longer you spend with a group of potential referral partners, the better they get to know your business - as they become more comfortable with you the level of trust increases and the referrals come."

That's why Marcus represents LEAPJob with the Business Networking International (BNI) Corporate Catalysts in Oakville. He likes the structured approach of BNI and has been a member of the Oakville group for just over a year now.

Marcus finds the structure offered by BNI to be important and helpful in building both trust and a sustainable referral pipeline.

"BNI teaches repeatable behaviours that, if applied properly, lead to solid relationships, unique opportunities and new connections." says Miller. "When someone invites you into their business world, that's powerful - and it's why referrals work."

Further to the opportunities LEAPJob has discovered in the GTA through BNI Corporate Catalysts, Marcus realizes that the networking resources don't just stop there. BNI is an international organization, exposing LEAPJob to opportunities throughout Canada and internationally.

"It's not just the resources offered," concludes Marcus. "We've been thoroughly impressed with the caliber of the companies and the people we've met through BNI's corporate chapters so far.

For further information on LEAPJob or to arrange an interview contact:

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Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
Direct Phone: 905.901.0219
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca
Web: www.stratcommsolutions.ca

Grenville Name Returns to Document Management and Printing Industry

2009-10-09T11:39:00.001-05:00

MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 9, 2009

Grenville Name Returns to Document Management and Printing Industry

October 9, 2009, TORONTO -- Grenville Management and Printing is a well established corporate name in the Canadian document management and printing industries. And now it will replace Inplex Facility Logistics.

"We are returning to our roots and officially changing the brand of our company to a name that is familiar to clients and the industries we serve," said Michael Burke, president and CEO of the Grenville organization. "Grenville is also a name that customers associate with superior quality, customer service, reliability and innovation in managed services."

This change-over will help simplify branding and avoid any confusion over the corporate name. Although Grenville Management Inc. was the holding company for Inplex, Grenville Printing - later acquired by Grafikom - was a separate company, which has since folded.

"That situation gave us an excellent opportunity to re-launch the Grenville name, founded nearly 40 years ago," Burke said. "The Inplex name has served us well since 2005, but we move forward with our corporate identity program, which does not, in any way, disrupt client service." He added that management and employees remain in place and will be able to offer expanded services in future.

As a vendor-neutral company, Grenville serves as an outsource specialist providing a range of services: print and document management, mailroom and loading dock operations, courier deliveries, fax distribution, mass mailing services, print-on-demand, photocopy services, kit assembly, postage, forms control and key operator services.

Grenville Management and Printing serves corporate, academic and property management companies in Canada and the United States.

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For further information or to arrange an interview contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
Public Relations Specialists
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca
Web: www.stratcommsolutions.ca

Pitch letter to media outlets on behalf of MyPhield Arthritis Relief

2009-10-09T11:22:00.003-05:00

I'm writing to you today on behalf of MyPhield Arthritis Relief. MyPhield is a Class II medical device licensed by Health Canada for the treatment of pain resulting from arthritic conditions.

MyPhield is a totally Canadian device that soothes and relaxes aching joints. It is manufactured by BioResonance Technology Inc. in Winnipeg, Manitoba in accordance with ISO 13485 medical device manufacturing standards.

The folks at BioResonance Technology have asked me to offer jouranlists, editors or media staff/family members who suffer from arthritis the opportunity to test out the MyPhield device and chronicle their impressions.

I have included some further information on the device below and you can visit www.myphield.com to view testimonials, pictures and further information.

If you suffer from joint pain or arthritis, I would be happy to arrange for you to test a device. I look forward to talking with you further about this opportunity.

Sincerely,

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
Public Relations Specialists
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca
Web: www.stratcommsolutions.ca
Twitter: SCSPR

ABOUT MYPHIELD

MyPhield technology is currently involved in a robust clinical study with financial support and technical assistance from Canada's National Research Council to test its efficacy and safety as an intervention for osteoarthritis of the lower back.

Statistics research completed in March 2002, of 1488 patient treatments at BioResonance Pain Relief Center, showed that 80 per cent noted significant positive changes occurred for the following parameters:

Exit level pain measure
Mobility indicator
Tension indicator
Stiffness indicator

MyPhield has a 60 day, money back guarantee and a one year warranty. No adverse events, side-effects or contra-indications have been reported.

MYPHIELD - HOW IT WORKS

MyPhield works on the principle of BioResonance, which is an accepted form of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM). It is accepted around the world as a safe and effective method for treatment of pain and illness.

MyPhield works by emitting subtle electromagnetic energy fields identical to those that naturally occur within a healthy body. The energy fields produced by the device safely stimulate damaged tissue, promoting the physiological balance necessary for a painless and healthy life.

BioResonance works by keeping the body's electromagnetic energy fields in balance, which facilitates normal growth and repair. Treatments target the natural energy fields of the body, focusing on changes in normal patterns that are often created by conditions like the chronic pain of arthritis.

MyPhield treatments are 45 minutes in length, completely painless, and require no physical exertion. After 2 - 3 weeks of treatments, pain relief results are noticeable.

MYPHIELD - A BRIEF HISTORY

The MyPhield technology was originally developed for clinical use. For 8 years, the MyPhield technology was used successfully in 10,000 treatments at the BioResonance Pain Relief Center in Winnipeg as an alternative therapy for arthritis pain relief.

BioResonance -- Complimentary and Alternative Medicine that relieves arthritis pain

2009-07-27T15:24:00.005-05:00

MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 27, 2009

BioResonance -- Complimentary and Alternative Medicine that relieves arthritis pain
MyPhield extends guarantee on their BioResonance technology

July 27, 2009, WINNIPEG – Correctly given prescribed drugs are the fourth leading cause of death in Canada – using Complimentary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) solutions as a first consideration is being trumpeted by many as a positive direction. Judging by CAM’s national growth as an industry, people are catching on to the benefits.

One such CAM is BioResonance. BioResonance was clinically tested and approved as a complimentary and alternative energy therapy treatment option for those suffering from the debilitating chronic pain of arthritis and is now accepted around the world as a safe and effective method for treatment of pain and illness.

The first measurements were reported in 1968 where it was discovered that the body’s tissue generates electromagnetic energy fields. These energy fields are altered when tissue becomes diseased or damaged. After extensive research, scientists found that introducing an outside energy field into an unhealthy body – a field identical to those produced by healthy cells – had the ability to produce therapeutic results.

“We’ve been using BioResonace technology, for 8 years in 10,000 treatments at our BioResonance Pain Relief Center in Winnipeg as an alternative therapy for arthritis pain relief,” says Alan Kotowich, President and CEO of Bio Resonance Technology Inc. “The MyPhield Osteoarthritis Therapy Cushion’s results are surprising and encouraging as more than 80 per cent of patients show significant positive changes, resulting in improved quality of life.”

MyPhield works on the principle of BioResonance Energy Therapy which is an accepted form of CAM that keeps the body’s electromagnetic energy fields in balance. Treatments target the natural energy fields of the body, focusing on changes in normal patterns that are often created by conditions like the chronic pain of arthritis. When these abnormal patterns are directly exposed to healthy electromagnetic fields, the damaged tissues will operate like their healthy companion cells, resulting in less pain.

“Earlier this month, we extended our money back guarantee from 30 to 60 days,” says Alan Kotowich. “We wanted to allow more than enough time for arthritis sufferers to use the MyPhield Therapy Cushion and experience the natural pain relief that BioResonace treatments provide, without health risks or side-effects that often accompany medications.”

Because MyPhield uses all-natural techniques, the therapy can be repeated as often as necessary whenever the pain reoccurs without affecting healthy tissue. The MyPhield guarantee ensures absolute satisfaction.

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For further information or to arrange an interview contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF MYPHIELD TECHNOLOGY INC.
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Environmental Factor’s Liqui-Gold seeking Federal approval as a natural weed and feed

2009-07-23T21:09:00.003-05:00

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July 24, 2009

Environmental Factor’s Liqui-Gold seeking Federal approval as a natural weed and feed

July 24, 2009, OSHAWA – With pesticides banned for sale and use in Ontario, finding natural healthier alternatives for lawn care is not merely a matter of finding natural products that work – they must also receive Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) approval.

After five years of development, Liqui-Gold Bio-fertilizer was regulated under the Fertilizer Act and became available to the commercial market in 2008 and to the retail in 2009. Liqui-Gold is a specially formulated natural fertilizer derived from corn gluten and has had a successful entry into the pesticide-free market as a fertilizer.

However, because Liqui-Gold contains an active ingredient that may control weeds, it is now currently under review by Health Canada’s PMRA as a bio-herbicide or weed inhibitor as well. The Environmental Factor is expecting approval soon.

To get approval, products need to be tried, tested and proven to work without negative repercussions – that’s a process that involves time and Canada’s PMRA. Many organizations weren’t prepared for the pesticide ban and they’re now scrambling to find a solution that works to keep their property weed free.

The Environmental Factor was founded over 15 years ago and has developed a line of natural, non-chemical weed control products such as TurfMaize. They’ve been ready for this change for years.

“When we first got started, offering environmentally friendly lawn care products wasn’t popular, but we stayed the course because it was the right thing to do,” says Lorelei Hepburn, president of The Environmental Factor. “Today, our track record has allowed us to be industry leaders offering natural lawn care alternatives that work.”

Ontario already recognizes Corn Gluten Meal “as a great way to keep lawn weeds at bay.” Liqui-Gold is derived from plants and is a corn by-product. It is a natural based product designed for professional use with all the benefits of corn gluten meal, only in sprayable form.

“Because Liqui-Gold is a highly concentrated liquid, water must be added prior to spraying,” says Lorelei Hepburn. “As a result, more turf coverage can be achieved with less cost than granular corn gluten.”

The ingredients in Liqui-Gold are protein powered nutrients which give applicators a sprayable plant based arsenal to fertilize lawns to crowd out weeds.

“Because our company was founded with an emphasis on natural and energy saving products, I’m very pleased to say that our development of LiquiGold has taken a product that for years has been considered waste, and converted it to good use,” says Hepburn.

While approval as a bio-herbicide is expected in 2010, Liqui-Gold will continue to be available as a natural fertilizer that thickens lawns and crowds out unwanted weeds.

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About The Environmental Factor
The Environmental Factor, a leading natural lawn-care company, has provided organic lawn-care solutions for over 15 years. They developed Canada’s first non-chemical weed control, TurfMaize, Neema Globe, and the Persea Natural Care System for lawns; the first do-it-yourself lawn care system without chemical pesticides.

For further information contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca
Web: www.stratcommsolutions.ca

Technology makes going to the spa convenient, affordable and adds privacy too

2009-05-26T14:03:00.001-05:00

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May 26, 2009

Technology makes going to the spa convenient, affordable and adds privacy too

May 26, 2009, OAKVILLE – Forty per cent of North Americans don’t like to be touched, which explains why many people avoid going to spas, despite their needs, or desire to be healthier and look better – but with the introduction of innovative spa technologies, North Americans can now have spa treatments in total privacy.

Besides making a spa experience convenient and affordable, Planet Beach’s use of innovative technologies enables the sessions to be fully automated and private – as the equipment displaces the need for a therapist.

“At Planet Beach Contempo® Spa, each piece of spa equipment is designed for a specific task and is located in its own room,” says Master Franchisee Nicole Matta. “Once a client enters their assigned room and shuts the door, they begin their private spa session – just the client and the machine – no spa attendant is needed or present.”

Using state of the art spa technology, Planet Beach offers a variety of spa services ranging from full body facials, advanced light therapy sessions, hydro-massage beds that target vital pressure points, to a heated shiatsu massage bed, and much more.

“For most treatments, all you need to do is take off your suit jacket and shoes and let the equipment do all the work and ease the day’s tensions away,” says Nicole. “It really is the ultimate in hassle-free spa-ing.”

Planet Beach Contempo® Spa in Oakville, launched just last year, noted that the health and wellness numbers are growing despite poor economic conditions. History shows, that, whatever the economic climate, people spend money on themselves – looking good and living healthier lives are among the top priorities.

“Our self-serve model, while not designed for a financial crisis, has largely benefited from the slowdown because our spa and salon services are easy to use and affordable,” says Nicole Matta. “The fact that our treatments offer total privacy is a bonus.”

Spa services and treatments are an important part of maintaining beautiful skin and a healthy lifestyle.

Anyone interested in trying out Oakville’s Planet Beach Contempo® Spa, just go to www.planetbeach.ca for a complimentary pass.

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For further information or arrange an interview contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF PLANET BEACH
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Proven clinical device that relieves arthritis pain now available for home use

2009-05-26T13:59:00.001-05:00

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May 26, 2009

Proven clinical device that relieves arthritis pain now available for home use
MyPhield’s made in Canada licensed device reaches more arthritis sufferers

May 26, 2009, WINNIPEG – For over eight years, people have had to wait for an appointment or drive miles to the BioResonance Pain Relief Center in Winnipeg to get relief from arthritis pain – today that’s changed.

In an effort to reach more arthritis sufferers, MyPhield has created a Class II medical device, licensed by Health Canada, for home use.

“We originally developed the device for clinical use only,” says Alan Kotowich, President and CEO of Bio Resonance Technology Inc. “However, MyPhield’s success during the past eight years with 10,000 therapeutic treatments as an alternative therapy for arthritis pain relief, caused us to rethink our strategy –with the demand for natural and alternative therapy for arthritis pain relief growing, we needed to make this technology more accessible and affordable.”

MyPhield electronics are manufactured in Canada by BioResonance Technology Inc. in accordance with ISO 13485 medical device manufacturing standards, have a 30 day money back guarantee, and a one year warranty.

“MyPhield is so easy to use and requires no medication,” says Alan Kotowich. “No adverse events, side-effects or contra-indications have ever been reported.”

People who suffer from arthritis pain have historically had few choices - it was either medication or an operation. MyPhield now provides arthritic pain sufferers with a natural alternative.

“During 39 years of employment, I was on my feet most of the day. I developed arthritis in my spine and left hip and over the years I tried many ways to relieve the pain,” says Keith, a MyPhield user. “I found the MyPhield treatments gave me the best results.”

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2009-05-08T14:21:00.000-05:00

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May 8, 2009

Relief for arthritis pain – without medication
For over eight years MyPhield technology has been making arthritis sufferers’ life easier

May 8, 2009, WINNIPEG – People who suffer from arthritis pain have few choices – it’s either medication or an operation – unless they’re among those who’ve heard about MyPhield technology.

MyPhield is a Class II medical device licensed by Health Canada for the treatment of pain resulting from arthritic conditions.

For 8 years, MyPhield technology was used successfully in 10,000 treatments at the BioResonance Pain Relief Center in Winnipeg as an alternative therapy for arthritis pain relief. Statistics compiled by a University of Manitoba professor from 1488 treatments at the clinic, showed significant positive changes in more than 80 per cent of patients, resulting in improved quality of life.

“The challenge with arthritis medications designed to treat the pain or lessen joint inflammation, are their potential side effects,” says Alan Kotowich. “People have been known to develop ulcers and suffer a variety of health issues in their effort to lessen their pain. But with MyPhield’s BioResonance treatments, there’s no medication and no side effects.”

The developers of MyPhield believed that if people were given the opportunity of lessening pain without medication, chronic arthritis sufferers would try BioResonance treatments, so they developed a device to be used by patients without having to go to a clinic. After only 2 – 3 weeks of treatments, and just 45 minutes each day, the results from MyPhield’s BioResonance device are significant.

“I can play bridge, work in my garden, pick up my grandchild, or wear my wedding rings again,” says Aileen. “If it wasn’t for BioResonance treatments, I’d be housebound… I’m very, very pleased with the results…”

What’s notable about Aileen is that she suffered from osteoarthritis in both knees for 30 years and was waiting for bilateral knee replacements. After receiving BioResonance treatments and while waiting for her replacements, she was able to decrease the dosage of Celebrex, continue to be active and improve her quality of life.

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Attraction, imagination and diversity behind vodka’s growing popularity

2009-04-22T09:53:00.001-05:00

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April 22, 2009

Spring increases the likeliness of consumers choosing vodka
Attraction, imagination and diversity behind vodka’s growing popularity

April 22, 2009, OAKVILLE – People are drawn to the attractive and imaginative presentation of cocktails and martinis, and with spring upon us, even more will make vodka their drink of choice. Knowing this, it’s not surprising that one out every four spirit drinkers choose vodka.

“Spring is fresh and colourful – it’s about life and fun,” says John Vellinga, president of Multiculture Bevco – Canadian owner and distributor of Slava Ultra Premium Vodka. “Besides the good taste, the many diverse cocktails with their attractive and colourful presentations resonate life and fun – and after a long day at work, people want fun; they want to live life – perhaps that’s one of the main reasons behind vodka’s growing popularity.”

This is the time when barbeques are unwrapped, and patio furniture returned to the backyard in preparation for the warm sunny days that are ahead. It’s the time for celebrations, parties and getting together with friends.

Now imagine serving a number of exciting and colourful cocktails such as the Cosmopolitan, Cinnamon Heart, Candy Cane Martini, Orange Revolution and Vodka Mojito – the names in themselves are so interesting that guests will be asking to try one.

“Global statistics show that vodka’s versatility and easy drink-ability are one of the reasons why it’s a popular choice amongst the young and old alike,” says John Vellinga. “Besides cocktails, it can be drunk straight or neat, the preferred choice of many Europeans; it can be a serious drink or a fun drink; and can even be a sophisticated drink – ‘shaken, not stirred.’

It is little wonder that vodka sales are expected to be the largest growth category of global spirit sales right through to 2012, and the spirit of choice at parties throughout North America.

“What’s helping this growing trend is the increasing popularity of premium and ultra premium vodkas,” says Vellinga. “Ultra Premium vodkas, like Slava, have been distilled a number of times removing the impurities that can be found in ordinary brands – this makes the quality and taste better, and in the case of Slava, even remove the medicinal taste making the drinks taste better and the experience enjoyable.”

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ABOUT MULTICULTURE BEVCO

Multiculture Bevco (MCB) is a developer and marketer of private label and niche products. The Oakville, Ontario-based company has developed and launched two of its own vodka trademarks in four provinces, including the LCBO in Ontario. MCB products include: Slavutich Beer, Krimsekt Sparkling Wines, Lvivske Beer, Slava Ultra Premium Vodka and Zirkova Premium Imported Vodka.

To schedule an interview or seek further information contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF MULTICULTURE BEVCO/SLAVA VODKA
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Owning franchises that grow during market downturns help beat back recession

2009-03-30T12:26:00.001-05:00

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March 30, 2009

Owning franchises that grow during market downturns help beat back recession
Planet Beach Contempo® Spa is new, modern, innovative and growing

March 30, 2009, OAKVILLE – Buying a franchise, while a good idea during a recession, doesn’t in itself guarantee success. However, buying a franchise with market share that’s growing during economic unrest, is a step in the right direction.

Planet Beach Contempo® Spas are one such franchise. They’re the world’s first and only automated day spa – leaders in the multi-billion dollar wellness and beauty industry. They’re unique, new, innovative, and growing.

This isn’t surprising, as the beauty, health and wellness industries survive and even flourish in times of recession. Tough economic times bring on more stress, and as a result society searches for ways to get relief, uplift their mood and to feel better about themselves.

“People like to escape from the pressurized realities of life – some go to movies; others go to health and beauty spas,” says Ontario Master Franchisee, Nicole Matta. “What we’re currently experiencing is an extension of ‘lipstick theory’ that arose from previous economic downturns.”

The past shows us that the beauty and spa industry is nearly recession-proof. Not even today's economic weaknesses stop the public's insatiable demand for ways to relieve stress, look younger, feel sexier and live healthier lives.

The hottest health and beauty cravings are massage, facials, skincare, UV tanning, skin hydration, nutrition and teeth whitening, and Planet Beach Contempo® Spas offer all of them under one roof – a one-stop health and beauty centre.

“The reason for Planet Beach Contempo® Spas’ success is not only because we provide services and products that people want during tough economic times, but that we provide these services at an economical and affordable price,” says Nicole Matta. “After all, income’s tighter during a recession, making price a factor.”

When considering buying a franchise, searching for companies whose products and services are in growing demand during tough economic times is a good place to start – such as the beauty, health and wellness industry.

For more information about Planet Beach Contempo® Spas, go to www.planetbeach.ca.

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For further information or to arrange an interview contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF PLANET BEACH
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

An affordable spa getaway that's reshaping the industry

2009-03-16T13:25:00.002-05:00

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March 16, 2009

An affordable spa getaway that’s reshaping the industry
Planet Beach Contempo® Spa is new, modern and innovative

March 16, 2009, OAKVILLE –Planet Beach Contempo® Spas are unique, innovative, and reshaping the spa industry – welcome to the 21st century.

There are a number of ways in which Planet Beach accomplishes this, starting with affordability and convenience.

Typically, a spa getaway can involve a number of services ranging from a steam bath, body massage, seaweed wrap, facial massage, etc. – often costing upwards to $1 thousand per day – while a yearly Planet Beach membership includes unlimited access to all services for very little more.

“Members join for many different reasons, some for the convenience, others because they like a particular spa service, such as a shiatsu massage,” says Master Franchisee Nicole Matta. “While they are content with the specific service they signed up for, the all-inclusive nature of their membership allows them to benefit from other services as well – services, which at your typical spa were expensive to try, just for the sake of curiosity.”

Since memberships allow spa-goers an all-inclusive experience for an affordable monthly fee, visitors can create a program that is entirely unique to their needs – using as many (or few) of the treatments as they want. Members can even experience new treatments with each visit.

“The affordability of our memberships combined with the most innovative of spa technologies is revolutionizing the industry because it makes spa services convenient and gives clients access to skin and body services they might not have otherwise tried,” says Nicole Matta. “But what our members are most happy about, are the results – both our men and women clients report feeling healthier, more relaxed, and that their skin is noticeably more attractive.”

Due to Planet Beach’s hi-tech spa services, an attendant is not required, and therefore massages, UV therapies, facials, etc. are done in the privacy of individual rooms making clients more comfortable. To a large degree they are in control of their own experience, as they are able to customize the machine settings – and if schedules are tight, they can easily adjust the timer to shorten a session.

With over 380 locations and 1.9 million members worldwide, members’ privileges extend around the world. So should a member be traveling, they won’t have to miss out on any regular visits.

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Enjoy the benefits of relaxation and soaking up the sun without going south

2009-02-26T17:47:00.002-05:00

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February 26, 2009

Enjoy the benefits of relaxation and soaking up the sun without going south
Planet Beach Contempo® Spa is like having a beach in your own backyard all year round

February 26, 2009, OAKVILLE – After four months of prolonged exposure to Canada’s dry, cold and dark winter, the human body is literally sun-starved and gasping for UV rays and some relaxation – and in only minutes at Planet Beach Contempo® Spa, a guest can experience the same health benefits of spending a day at the beach.

With spring break just around the corner, many families are busy planning their trip south, while many other families are merely wishing they were. But for those who don’t get to go or want to experience the benefits of a warm southern exposure all year round, visiting therapeutic spas that offer UV light therapy is the next best thing – now imagine a spa that offers the private massage in the cabana as well – things can’t get much better.

“It is no secret that light therapy treatments are known to have a number of health benefits,” says Planet Beach Contempo® Spa Master Franchisee Nicole Matta. “It’s proven effective in treating acne, psoriasis, seasonal affective disorder, and non-seasonal depression – not only does it improve skin conditions, it makes you feel better, brighter and more energetic.”

Planet Beach Contempo® Spa uses state-of-the-art spa technology and advanced light therapy enabling guests to enjoy, in the privacy of their own room, the best in UV and relaxation therapies.

“My doctor wanted to know how I fixed my “trapezius [muscle]”. She was astounded and said she would do anything I was doing to get her trapezius to feel like mine. My blood pressure is down, my mood is up – I come every day for my “wellness” time,” says one member of Oakville’s Planet Beach Contempo® Spa. “It’s the best thing anyone can do for themselves.”

Guests have the choice of relaxing and unwinding on a Hydro-Massage bed, target vital pressure points and invigorate tired muscles with the heated Therasage shiatsu massage bed, or just sit in a Japanese Executive massage chair where all you need to do is take off your suit jacket and shoes and let the chair ease the day’s tensions away.

“So whether you come for a tan, UV therapy, or just to relax with any one of our many massage therapy units, just put on a relaxation tune with the sound of waves hitting the shore, close your eyes, and you will not just think you’re at the beach, you’ll experience the benefits of a day at the beach like no other,” says Nicole Matta. “And should you decide to become a member and visit regularly, not only will you feel better, your skin will be noticeably healthier and more youthful-looking.”

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Innovative technologies make spa visits affordable and convenient

2009-02-16T16:06:00.003-05:00

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January 20, 2009

Innovative technologies make spa visits affordable and convenient
Planet Beach Contempo® Spa combines the benefits of massage and UV Therapy under one roof

January 20, 2009, OAKVILLE – Planet Beach Contempo® Spa is upscale and modern using only the most innovative spa technologies to provide its members with affordable massage and UV therapy.

Gone are the days where one massage therapist is too hard and another too soft. Planet Beach’s state-of-the-art spa technology allows the individual to have control of the experience and customize equipment settings to personal preference, making the massage or UV session just right—remember those customized settings, and the same relaxing experience can be had every time.

“It’s so simple to use, with just the touch of the screen and push of a button you control everything from heat, speed, strength, and frequency,” says Master Franchisee Nicole Matta. “Once the settings are made, just put on the head phones, listen to tranquil tunes, lay back and relax, and feel your body being invigorated.”

The massage services range from a soothing full-body massage to a deep-tissue targeted massage, and have been carefully engineered to relieve stress, decrease muscle tension, and leave tired muscles feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

The Oakville franchise is Ontario’s first and the only true Contempo® spa in Canada, but with over 380 locations and 1.9 million members worldwide, Planet Beach is a recognized leader in UV therapy, skin care services, and is equipped with the latest in therapeutic massage technology.

Planet Beach’s unique approach offers technology-driven, attendant-free spa and UV therapy services that focus on total wellness. All treatments are fully automated, enabling customers to pamper both face and body at the press of a button, in privacy and on their own schedule – a plus in today’s hectic and busy world.

“The concept of making a complete and full range of skin care services that are easy to use and convenient, is intriguing,” says Nicole Matta. “You can get a golden glow, hydrate your skin, rejuvenate your face, and relax with a massage — all in one place, at a reasonable price, and without spending a whole day.”

This exclusive mix of services is available only at Planet Beach.

“For just a little less than the regular or typical cost of a two hour visit to a traditional day spa, our members can indulge in a month of near limitless services and experience any one of our many therapies,” says Nicole Matta. “As this experience may be new to many, we offer a free pass so that guests can try it first – be warned – once you’ve tried it, you’ll love it.”

To receive a free guest pass, just go to www.planetbeach.ca.

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Innovative Technologies make spa visits affordable and convenient

2009-02-16T16:06:00.002-05:00

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The perfect gift for those who want healthier, more youthful-looking skin

2009-02-16T16:05:00.002-05:00

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February 2, 2009

The perfect gift for those who want healthier, more youthful-looking skin
Innovative Planet Beach Contempo® Spa offers a natural approach to health, wellness, and beauty

February 2, 2009, OAKVILLE – Planet Beach Contempo® Spas are hi-tech and modern, and the first and only chain to combine UV therapy, industry leading skin-care product lines, and the luxury of facials, moisturizers and massages in one spa facility – it is virtually, a one-stop skincare centre.

Using only the latest in skin-care technologies, it’s an affordable alternative to your more traditional salons and spas, where both services can be experienced with minimal time commitment on the same day, in one location, and in one spa. And Planet Beach offers much, much more than even this.

For example, the Luminous Facial is the latest in skin rejuvenation, and uses phototherapy to provide noticeable improvement to the complexion offering an overall healthier, more youthful appearance. There is no nip and tuck, as this natural approach to skin-care gives a 20-minute facial treatment that combats fine lines, dark circles and puffiness around the eyes.

“Our over 380 locations and 1.9 million members worldwide prove that this is what today’s spa clients are looking for,” says Master Franchisee Nicole Matta. “Our innovative technologies make a visit affordable, and convenient.”

Lumière Topical Skincare represents the first-ever line of topical skincare products formulated specifically to work with the Lumière Light-ThèrapieTM device in combination with Photon Absorption Therapy. The products provided in the Lumière Skincare line collectively encompass every aspect of daily facial skincare that is required to promote healthier, more youthful-looking skin.

Planet Beach Contempo Spa is a new breed of skin care, as all treatments are fully automated, enabling customers to pamper both face and body at the press of a button, in privacy and on their own schedule.

“People care about maintaining their youthful appearances, and with a clientele base that is 40 per cent male and 60 per cent female, these facial services are appreciated by both genders alike,” says Nicole Matta. “They make an excellent Valentine’s gift for any partner.”

For those who like natural skin-care options, the PB Skincare line offers clear and simple solutions for all skin types. Their trained Consultant will recommend one of three skincare regimes.

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The chilling facts about vodka

2009-02-16T16:03:00.001-05:00

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February 16, 2009

The chilling facts about vodka
Ultra Premium vodkas are even better when served cold

February 17, 2009, OAKVILLE – Serving vodka chilled brings out the best in both the flavour and texture of vodka and may be a primary reason for its surge in sales and growing market demand.

Globally, sales of spirits are expected to reach $202 billion by 2012, an increase of 11.1 per cent from 2007, according to a study by MarketResearch.com. So, it is no surprise that vodka, a major player in the global spirits market, is also seeing increasing sales.

Why the growing love affair with vodka?

A lot can be contributed to the growing number of young people who drink nothing else but vodka. Perhaps it’s the TV series, and recent movie, Sex in the City that is largely responsible, or the resurgence of a younger and more physical James Bond played by Daniel Craig that has popularized the martini. Whatever the reasons, since the 50’s, the martini and all its many compliments, have never been so popular.

As this group ages, they’re staying committed to being true vodka drinkers, only now recognizing the noticeable difference in taste, they’re switching up to Ultra Premium vodka brands, especially when drinking it straight up just like Ukrainians and many Europeans do.

“Vodka consumers are recognizing that they don’t have to settle on vodka brands that leave a medicinal aftertaste and burning at the back of the throat,” says John Vellinga, president of Multiculture Bevco – Canadian owner and distributor of Slava Ultra Premium Vodka. “Choosing Ultra Premium brands of vodka changes all that – serve it chilled; the colder the better – and you have an experience that’s without comparison; smooth, no medicinal aftertaste, and only gentle warmth at the back of the throat.”

Connoisseurs, recognizing the superior benefits, like to keep vodka in the freezer, as super-chilling vodka enhance the smoothness and create a lovely, viscous consistency.

Understanding these facts and trends has helped companies market their product more effectively.

“For example, Slava Ultra Premium Vodka understood from its conception that vodka was meant to be served chilled, and as a result it was marketed with a practical triangular shaped bottle design,” says John Vellinga. “The idea was to create a bottle that wouldn’t roll around in the fridge or freezer, and if space was at a premium, the bottles could be stacked.”

So here are some tips to making a superior chilling martini. Use only chilled high quality vodka; chill-out your glasses; don’t use artificial, sickly-sweet additives, instead, to flavour the drink, use natural and fresh ingredients; use exotic fruits and other garnishes to make a martini more flavourful; to infuse the drink with a bit more flavour, put in a shaker; and shake thoroughly but not too hard.

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LaserNetworks and Alberta’s ComPrint Solutions Inc. join forces

2008-07-08T12:16:00.002-05:00

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MEDIA RELEASE

July 8, 2008

Offering comprehensive print solutions, supplies and service in Alberta and Nationally

July 8, 2008, OAKVILLE -- LaserNetworks, Canada’s leading print solutions company has acquired ComPrint Solutions Inc., Alberta’s largest printing and imaging service provider whose commitment to quality, service and innovation has been respected by thousands of businesses including some of the most prestigious throughout the province.

For over a decade ComPrint Solutions Inc. has been providing Albertans with industry leading networked print solutions that offer organizations printing advantages that include centralized management, highly responsive repair and maintenance services, and superior use of corporate resources. Additionally, they have been particularly effective at meeting the growing needs of customers in the oil and gas sector.

LaserNetworks is Canada’s leading print solutions company, and for over 20 years has been providing print solution services, and products to virtually every sized company across Canada and continental USA including Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, major chartered banks, large law firms and virtually any customer whose demands require a local presence and central responsibility.

LaserNetworks is known for its revolutionary COST PER PAGE program of print fleet management services, including printers, multi-function devices, supplies and/or service on a Pay as you Print™ basis.

“Joining forces under the umbrella of LaserNetworks, provides both ComPrint and LaserNetworks a myriad of growth opportunities,” says Chris Stoate, LaserNetworks’ founder. “LaserNetworks’ full suite of print management infrastructure software will improve control and knowledge of ComPrint’s print fleets, and LaserNetworks’ consulting capabilities will help further optimize their client’s productivity and asset life cycle management. As for LaserNetworks, we’ll be able to expand our COST PER PAGE print solutions to more customers in western Canada.”

“We are delighted at the acquisition as it ensures a strong future for ComPrint's employees and an improved overall offering for ComPrint's customers,” say Mike and Stephanie Traynor, former owners of ComPrint Solutions Inc. “The partnerships forged with vendors such as HP and Lexmark, provide long term benefits for both ComPrint and LaserNetworks, and their clients.”

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For further information or interviews contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF LASERNETWORKS
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

LaserNetworks website: www.lasernetworks.com

Garage Living introduces flooring that will revolutionize your garage

2008-07-02T10:21:00.001-05:00

MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 2, 2008

Great for do-it-yourselfers, this multi-purpose, water-resistant tile, is easy to install

July 2, 2008, TORONTO – For some, a garage is just a garage, but to an ever increasing number of home owners, there is a realization that a garage has the potential to become much, much, more; and a good place to start is with the garage floor.

Revolutionizing a garage can be as simple as installing tile flooring making it visually appealing while increasing its usefulness.

“Garages can be dull, cold, damp, and uninviting, but simply installing tile flooring introduces a whole new fresh look and feel that opens the door for increased functionality,” says Frank Spano, Vice President of Marketing, Garage Living, Canada’s leading garage specialists. “Our new multi-purpose, zipper-lock tile can be easily installed without adhesive; it’s really easy to install yourself too.”

The thermal and water resistant qualities of VersaTile makes a garage feel warm and dry, resulting in a room that is more appealing to be in. Because the tiles are seamless with an impervious surface that is hard wearing and resistant to many chemicals including salt, oil and grease, and easy to clean, the garage can be a messy dirty workshop one moment and a play area that is clean and dry the next.

With a range of different colours from taupe, red, grey and black, to design options which can include a classic grey floor or a checkerboard floor that creates a “racetrack” look, VersaTile can be customized to meet just about everyone’s needs. It can also be laid on a flat or sloped surface, and is so easy to install that a mallet and a utility knife is all that’s needed.

“Another great feature is the multi-functionality of these tiles. While they are great for the garage, they can be used for basements, storage rooms, workshops, patios, laundry rooms; it’s endless,” says Frank Spano. “And with a global emphasis on recycling, and waste diversion, Garage Living’s VersaTile is made from recycled PVC and comes with our 5 year limited warranty.”

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The lack of money is never about money

2008-07-02T10:09:00.002-05:00

MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 2, 2008

Thoughts, not money are the true capital

July 2, 2008, TORONTO -- Obtaining financial wealth starts by understanding that the concept of rags to riches is not just a dream, but merely a change in what you believe about money.

Most believe that the road to financial independence is to buy a home, pay off the mortgage, and then retire. Common knowledge seems to dictate that by not having a mortgage to pay during retirement, living in one's home will be affordable and virtually worry free. But what happens when taxes increase to the point that they're larger than the average mortgage payment? Or what happens if the cost-of-living, as evidenced by the recent surge in oil and produce costs, rises faster than a person's pension?

It's obvious, but what seemed to work for our parents and grandparents is doubtful to work for this generation. A change in beliefs about money is in order.

For instance, a home is commonly referred to as an asset, but what if something's only considered an asset where the revenue exceeds its expenses?

"People tend to think of financial planning in terms of retirement, but a good planner can help you pay for a home, a vacation, or whatever is important to you," says Sandi Gale, one of Toronto's leading independent money strategists . "Money should be fun."

Someone once said, "If wealth is the product of one's capacity to think: then thoughts, not money are the true capital."

"I studied the psychology of money five times before I got it. I looked into my own limiting beliefs around money and I realized that I had allowed the traumas in my life to limit my abilities to make money," explains Sandi. "A willingness to look at new things such as nontraditional philosophies, while not disregarding traditional methods can open up unlimited possibilities."

Believing that money is simply energy, Sandi has helped her clients learn to invoke various alternative and non-traditional learning models to un-block the flow of energy, increase prosperity in their lives and create an individual wealth identity.

"I had this friend who would focus on her debts all the time, and as a result was always in debt," tells Gale. "I finally convinced her to focus on saving, and to give me a plastic bag full of loonies and toonies every month to put in an account for her. While not financially independent yet, she's retired and still young with a whole new belief system about obtaining financial wealth. It doesn't have to be painful."

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For further information or to schedule an interview contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF Sandi Gale, Money Strategist
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Namex poised for senior exploration

2008-07-02T10:04:00.003-05:00

MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 2, 2008

With mining, the old adage, location, location, location has great significance

July 2, 2008, MONTREAL -- Where do you find a new mine? The answer is simple, next to an old one.

In reality, it's not that simple; however, experts know that locating a new mine in close proximity to a previously developed one is a good indicator. After all, a vein carrying mineral deposits doesn't just shut off because of a property line.

Namex Explorations Inc. recently purchased the Huffman property, located northwest of Sudbury. This new property is on trend and some 8 kilometres east of the Jerome Gold Mine. In 1941 to 1943 the Jerome Gold Mine produced 56,878 ounces of gold, and 15,104 ounces of silver. Of great significance and as evidence of the importance of location, recent excavator work on the Huffman property has exposed mineralized porphyritic felsic bedrock in four trenches along a strike length of 240 metres.

"There are exciting things about to happen," says Oliver Maki, Chief Geologist for Namex Explorations Inc., former Professor of Geology at Cambrian College, and director of the exploration program that discovered the three billion ton Los Pelambres copper deposit on the Chile-Argentina border. "The [Huffman property] results of grab samples have been tremendous: the gold value is up over 2 ounces per ton and although confined to a somewhat narrow vein, it's occurring within quartz felsic porphyry which is the host draw for most of the mines in that area. We're optimistic of being able to locate an enlargement of it further down."

In fact all of Namex's properties are located in former or established mining camps, are part of former mines are adjoining, or adjacent to former mines, or are on trend and in very close proximity to known ore bodies. They also can be serviced by the existing infrastructure of skilled mine labor pools, good roads, power, cities and are in areas known to be friendly to mining.

Their Post Creek property is not only strategically located adjacent to FNX Mining's Podolsky North and Podolsky 2000 projects, but encompasses some 1,200 metres of the same Whistle Offset which hosts the Podolsky ore bodies. In August of last year, the Podolsky 2000 Deposit encountered massive copper, nickel, platinum, palladium and gold mineralization.

"The Post Creek rock type is correct, the geology is correct and it's surrounded by proven producers - that's what we base our excitement on," says Oliver Maki.

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For further information contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF O.T. MINING
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca
Web: www.stratcommsolutions.ca

------------------------------
Disclaimer: This press release may contain forward-looking statements regarding the Company, within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Exchange Act, including statements regarding the anticipated timing, process and scope of further exploration and drilling activities. These statements are based on assumptions that the Company believes are reasonable but that are subject to uncertainties and business risks. Actual results relating to any and all of these subjects may differ materially from those presented. Factors that could cause results to differ materially include economic and political events affecting supply of and demand for base and precious metals, fluctuations in commodity prices, negative results of environmental or technical studies, negative results of further exploration, drilling programs, problems or delays in or objections to the permitting process, failure or delay of third parties to provide services, changes in the attitude of state and local officials toward its projects and other factors. Additional information is available at the Company’s website at www.namex-explorations.com.

Butte’s “richest hill on earth” may have a rival

2008-07-02T09:57:00.001-05:00

MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 2, 2008

OT Mining’s Ruby Property set to drill targets

June 2, 2008, MONTREAL -- The "Butte Mining District" that encompasses "The Richest Hill On Earth" and is second only to South Africa’s Witwatersrand, may have a rival - and it’s located only 14 miles north east of Butte.

It is believed that The O.T.’s Ruby Project’s North Anomaly may equal, or even surpass, the mineral wealth of the Butte Mining District.

Since 1880, Butte has produced almost 400 billion dollars worth of metals with estimates of a similar amount yet to be discovered. "The Richest Hill" has produced ore to depths of 5,500 feet. And drill results, to a depth of 8,500 feet, show continuance of the Butte mineralized structure. During the World Wars I and II, the Butte Mine alone produced 25 per cent of the United States copper demand.

In itself, the Ruby Property’s close proximity to "The Richest Hill" is telling. However, leading edge technology in the form of innovative geochemical techniques, airborne geophysical surveys and detailed mapping and sampling, has provided ample compelling evidence that the Ruby Property has the potential to contain base and precious metal ore that equal or exceeds that of the infamous Butte Mining District.

"The question is not if they’ll find precious metal, as our preliminary tests have pretty much determined that, rather it’s a matter of how much," says James Hess, President of The O.T. Mining Corporation. "The fact that major mining companies are contacting us is also very exciting."

Already, O.T.’s Montana technical team has refined the project data, selected drill targets from the 18 new drill site permits issued by The USFS (United States Forest Service) this past May and have begun to prepare the drill sites.

O.T.’s Project Manager has issued tenders for two drills to begin work as soon as weather permits.

"O.T.’s goal is to prove that the Ruby Property’s North Anomaly mineralized system has the potential to rival or surpass that of the Butte Mining District," says James Hess.

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For further information contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF O.T. MINING
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca
Web: www.stratcommsolutions.ca

------------------------------
Disclaimer: This press release contains forward-looking statements regarding the Company, within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Exchange Act, including statements regarding the anticipated timing, process and scope of further exploration and drilling activities. These statements are based on assumptions that the Company believes are reasonable but that are subject to uncertainties and business risks. Actual results relating to any and all of these subjects may differ materially from those presented. Factors that could cause results to differ materially include economic and political events affecting supply of and demand for base and precious metals, fluctuations in commodity prices, negative results of environmental or technical studies, negative results of further exploration, drilling programs, problems or delays in or objections to the permitting process, failure or delay of third parties to provide services, changes in the attitude of state and local officials toward the Ruby Project and other factors. Additional information is available at the Company’s website at www.otmining.com.

Preschoolers can learn to read and do math – in just minutes a day

2008-07-02T09:52:00.001-05:00

MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 2, 2008

dEcode for Kids has proven to be simple and effective in teaching kids how to read and do math

June 2, 2008, TORONTO -- dEcode for Kids is a unique program that teaches children between the ages of 3 and 6, earlier is even better, successful literacy and numeracy skills in just minutes a day.

What parent doesn’t want their child to learn early and give them a head start at reading and doing math before they enter kindergarten? Generally speaking, when it comes to teaching their children how to read, parents don’t lack desire but more often it’s the lack of the tools and the time to do it. dEcode for Kids solves both these problems.

"In dEcode for Kids, both the reading and math programs are designed for maximum efficiency which is so important for children at this age whose primary job is to play!" says Leslie Grant (M.Ed.), Director of The Lawrence Park School in North Toronto, which uses the dEcode for Kids programs. "Ten minutes a day is more than enough, and the children really enjoy both the books and the CD programs."

Just about every level of society, inclusive of governments, municipalities, school boards, teachers and parents are recognizing the importance of starting the process of reading and doing math in the preschool years of a child’s life.

Teaching a child to read is considered the key to building self-confidence and instilling the necessary skills to succeed in school and life, according to the Ontario Ministry of Education.

dEcode for Kids is an effective program for teaching pre-kindergarten children how to read, because dEcode for Kids was founded on the same principles as ABC dEcode and 123 dEcode. Both ABC and 123 dEcode were developed through over thirty years of clinical practice with kids and adults struggling with dyslexia, Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD), Learning Disabilities (LDs), and low literacy. These programs have proven to be successful 100 per cent of the time where the student follows the recommended course. The difference is that the full dEcode system, provides more in-depth drilling practice to overcome specific sorts of problems which for most children are not necessary.

With over thirty years of clinical practice, working with hundreds of young children between the ages of three and six, Dr. Debby Chesnie Cooper recognized a need for the very young to have an enticing way to learn about sounds and numbers. The dEcode for Kids curriculum delivers a solid learning foundation in reading for pre-school children and gives them an accelerated head-start in learning to read.

"dEcode for Kids is different than any other program as it is the only reading program that starts at the very beginning with the auditory coding of single sounds," says Dr. Debby Chesnie Cooper, Developmental and Educational Psychologist and Director of The Chesnie Cooper Educational Centre*, leaders in child and educational psychology. "Other reading programs skip too quickly over the early stages of phonetic decoding only dEcode for Kids takes all the steps required to truly learn to decode. The dEcode for Kids program, with its careful early attention to auditory coding can even overcome certain mild LDs which may then never manifest in the future for the young learner."

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For further information contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF DR. DEBBY CHESNIE COOPER
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca
Web: www.stratcommsolutions.ca

What most corporations don’t know about print management solutions

2008-07-02T09:49:00.002-05:00

MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 2, 2008

The cost per page solution to hidden print management costs

June 2, 2008, OAKVILLE -- Operating at high efficiency in order to increase the bottom line is always a priority for businesses and not-for-profit organizations.

According to a study by InfoTrends, corporations spend an average of six percent of their gross revenue on their overall document management. Most companies, however, think they only spend around three percent of gross revenues, but when hardware, supplies and people costs are considered, the average is around six percent and growing. To reduce these costs, organizations need to consider alternative print solution options.

There are many opportunities for companies to reduce print costs. For example, organizations are quick to account for the hard and soft costs of purchasing a multifunction printer (MFP), supplies, toner, etc., but overlook the hidden cost of their daily operation.

Research has shown that an estimated 50 per cent of the overall printer cost can be tied to support, and of that, 20 per cent can be directly attributed to service calls to a company’s IT helpdesk, according to Principal Analyst Louella Fernades of Quocirca.

Most companies’ print management operations are askew with many departments operating independently with little or no knowledge of other departments’ printing supply needs. The savings that can come as a result of bulk buying are being overlooked.

This is the reason that LaserNetworks® launched its COST PER PAGE® program, in 1996, the first such program in the print solutions industry at that time. It includes on-site support of all printing and imaging devices and networks, management of all printer and imaging fleet assets, and provisioning of all printing supplies, everything except paper and power, for a pre-determined, fixed cost per page fee.

"Our experience working with over 500 North American organizations, including such companies as PepsiCo, and Boeing, has shown that print management costs can be reduced as much as 40 percent," says Chris Stoate, President of LaserNetworks®, Canada’s leading print solutions company.

LaserNetworks® currently supports over 50,000 printing and imaging devices, and delivers on-site service throughout Canada and the United States.

"There are numerous ways to reduce a company’s print operation costs, bulk buying and eliminating calls to a company’s IT helpdesk are only two of the many solutions available," says Chris Stoate. "Reducing equipment down-time, leveraging LaserNetworks®relationship with suppliers, using latest technology in the marketplace without incurring capital costs and taking advantage of the environmentally friendly options available are just a few ways that companies can improve their print management operations."

For further information contact:

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Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF LASERNETWORKS
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca
Web: www.stratcommsolutions.ca

Don’t build an addition to increase space - just organize the garage

2008-07-02T09:45:00.003-05:00

MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 2, 2008

Increase the home's useable space

June 2, 2008, VAUGHAN -- For most people, it seems, a home never has enough space. This is one of the reasons why the housing market is so busy - the family grows, stuff accumulates and then there’s a need for a larger home. But moving can be so expensive and time consuming. Now Garage Living offers another alternative.

Increase the useable square footage of a home without the extra expense of moving costs, real estate and closing fees, and the monthly financial demand of a larger mortgage. Moving can be put off for several years by simply increasing the home’s functionality and useable square footage, creating more space and strengthening the family’s financial position.

How is this possible? Simple, Garage Living helps homeowners increase the functionality of the home’s existing space. In fact, so much space can be freed-up, it’s like adding a 10 by 20 foot room onto a home. Savvy homeowners are now looking to organize their garage to increase their homes useable space. It’s the hottest new home improvement trend that not only gives homeowners more functional and useable space; it even increases the resale value of the home.

Take any unused or seldom used items off the floor anywhere in the home and store them neatly and conveniently in the garage. The unused items can be stored on overhead shelves, while the more frequently used things, such as sports equipment and toys, are kept within reach on adjustable wall organizers called slatwall. To optimize the use of the garage, get everything off the floor and make use of all the space with overhead storage cabinets and storage systems.

"For most, a garage is nothing more than a place to store large seasonal tools, equipment, and a place to collect junk, but it can be so much more," says Frank Spano, Vice President of Marketing, Garage Living, Canada’s leading garage specialists. "By installing shelving, cabinetry and overhead storage, the average two car garage adds 200 square feet of storage space while still functioning as a place to park the family vehicles."

People are beginning to realize the multi-function capabilities of a garage. Not only can it serve as a place to store vehicles or junk, but with a few improvements a garage can be like a new addition to the home. A garage can be used as a play area for the kids, a workshop for the handyman, a workout area, the possibilities are endless.

Garage Living’s organization concept is the answer to the home storage problems of suburban families. Their state of the art showroom is located in Vaughan, Ontario. This modern 85,000 square foot facility includes 10,000 square feet of showroom, 15,000 square feet of manufacturing and a 65,000 square foot warehouse. The showroom is open Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and is located at 201 Chrislea Road, Vaughan. In-home consultations can be booked at 1-877-850-8557.

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For further information contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF GARAGE LIVING
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca
Web: www.stratcommsolutions.ca

Dr. Misner, father of modern networking, launches Referrals for Life

2008-04-28T08:28:00.004-05:00

MEDIA ADVISORY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 28, 2008

The Referral Institute helps people create referrals for life and boost the bottom line

April 28, 2008, TORONTO - The Referral Institute, founded in California in 2001 by Dr. Ivan Misner, also the founder of Business Network International (BNI), is quickly expanding into the Canadian market.

"The Referral Institute is one of the world's leading referral training organizations with over a hundred trainers and coaches worldwide," says Paula Hope, President of the Referral Institute- Peel-Halton. "We're thrilled to have Dr. Misner here to launch what's going to be the Referral Institute's signature program - Referrals for Life."

Dr. Ivan Misner has been named the 'father of modern networking' by CNN for his work with BNI. The BNI organization now has over 4,200 chapters throughout every populated continent of the world and, last year alone, generated over 4.4 million referrals resulting in $1.7 billion dollars worth of business for its members.

"With the Referral Institute, Dr. Misner takes his entire referral-building expertise one step further," says Paula Hope. "The Referral Institute trains business professionals and entrepreneurs how to proactively increase their business through implementing structured referral strategies - moving relationships into profit."

The Referral Institute and Referrals for Life program were developed by Dr. Misner to ease the daunting task of cold calling. Dr. Ivan Misner and Paula Hope will unveil the full Referrals for Life program this week in Toronto.

WHERE: Holiday Inn - 370 King Street West, Toronto

WHEN: Thursday, May 1, 2008

TIME: 6:30PM to 8:30PM

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ABOUT DR. MISNER

Dr. Misner's Ph.D. is from the University of Southern California. He has written eight books, including his New York Times bestseller; Masters of Networking and his #1 bestseller; Masters of Success. He is a monthly columnist for Entrepreneur.com and is Chairman of the Board for the Referral Institute. He has taught business and social capital courses at several universities and sits on the Board of Directors for the Colorado School of Professional Psychology.

Dr. Misner is one of the world's leading experts on business networking and has been a keynote speaker for major corporations and associations throughout the world. He has been featured in the L.A. Times, Wall Street Journal, and New York Times, as well as numerous TV and radio shows including CNN, CNBC, and the BBC in London.

ABOUT PAULA HOPE

Paula Hope, M.A., B.A. Hons., a successful business development executive, has mentored sales professionals in product areas ranging from medical devices to hard copy supplies. It is Paula's mission to dramatically improve the business-building efficiency of entrepreneurs and business professionals by utilizing proven referral marketing approaches.

For further information or interviews contact:

Peter Turkington / Strategic Communications Solutions / ON BEHALF OF THE REFERRAL INSTITUTE / Direct Phone: 905.901.9218 / Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

dEcode® for kids inspires and teaches reading and numeracy for preschoolers

2008-04-20T13:14:00.003-05:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA RELEASE

April 2, 2008

The premise behind dEcode® is simple – All children can learn, some just learn differently!

April 2, 2008, TORONTO - Everyone needs to learn to read and just about every level of society, inclusive of governments, municipalities, school boards, teachers and parents are recognizing the importance of starting this process in the preschool years of a child’s life. Neuroscientific research also supports this position (see The Early Years study by Margaret McCain and Fraser Mustard).

Teaching a child to read is key to building self-confidence and instilling the necessary skills to succeed in school and life, according to the Ontario Ministry of Education.

However, there are an alarming number of children who enter our educational system without these skills.

“We know that 25 per cent of children enter kindergarten without the skills they need to succeed,” says Shirley Bond, British Columbia’s Education Minister.

Why is it so important to teach pre-kindergarten children how to read?

“Textbooks make too many assumptions and move too quickly, as they assume learning has already taken place by the time the child enters grade one and that students have learned all the previous facts needed to move forward,” says Dr. Debby Chesnie Cooper, Developmental and Educational Psychologist and Director of The Chesnie Cooper Educational Centre*, leaders in child and educational psychology. “I discovered this fact twenty-five years ago when I met a child who didn’t respond to traditional methodologies, and when I couldn’t find curriculum that supported this position, it led me to developing ABC dEcode®, 123 dEcode®, and ultimately dEcode® for Kids.”

Seventy-four per cent of children who are unsuccessful readers in the third grade are still unsuccessful readers in the ninth grade (Journal of Child Neurology, January, 1995).

And at least 50 per cent of adults have weak numeracy skills, according to ABC Canada.

With over thirty years of clinical practice, working with hundreds of young children between the ages of three and six, Dr. Debby Chesnie Cooper recognized a need for the very young to have an enticing way to learn about sounds and numbers. The dEcode® for Kids curriculum delivers a solid learning foundation in reading for pre-school children and gives them an accelerated head-start in learning to read.

“In dEcode® For Kids, the way the sounds and symbols are emphasized and contrasted makes it very easy for very young children to grasp and master the concepts and have success with reading,” says Leslie Grant (M.Ed.), Director of The Lawrence Park School in North Toronto, which uses the dEcode® For Kids program. “The dEcode® For Kids Math program, the children really understand what the numbers represent. Both programs are designed for maximum efficiency, which is so important for children at this age whose primary job is to play!”

“It brings out the natural tendency of children to find pleasure in imitation and repetition, and is simpler to implement than any other program,” says Dr. Debby Cooper. “It turns repetition into learning and is unlike other programs which begin where dEcode® for Kids ends.”

“Ten minutes a day is more than enough, and the children really enjoy both the books and the CD program,” says Leslie Grant.

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For further information or interviews contact:

Peter Turkington / Strategic Communications Solutions / ON BEHALF OF DR. DEBBY CHESNIE COOPER / Direct Phone: 905.901.9218 / Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

To succeed in business, going ‘green’ is a competitive advantage

2008-04-20T12:58:00.005-05:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA RELEASE

January 30, 2008

LaserNetworks provides steps for businesses to reduce costs and be better environmental stewards

January 30, 2008, OAKVILLE - Good business practices embrace environmental responsibility. In fact, a recent article published by the National Post, suggested that for businesses to succeed in this era, environmental stewardship is not an option, it's a must.

For many companies, the motivation to get started exists but questions about feasibility and profitability loom large bringing caution and hesitation about implementing changes. At first glance, it seems difficult for a business to become environmentally responsible and maintain financial viability.

"The task of becoming a good environmental steward is large, but manageable if broken down into small steps that are easy to navigate," says Chris Stoate, President of LaserNetworks®, Canada's leading print solutions company. "Making the environment a priority with a clear and comprehensive environmental strategy is a good place to start."

From their beginning in 1987, LaserNetworks® has modeled environmental responsibility and has had the objective to give customers the flexibility to make environmentally-friendly choices that reduce environmental impact and carbon footprint.

As Canada's leading print solutions company, providing environmentally friendly print solution services and products to virtually every sized company across Canada and continental USA including Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, major chartered banks, and large law firms, LaserNetworks® is proof that companies can be both environmentally responsible and profitable.

"One easy step for organizations is to look at their large volume consumables, such as paper and toner, and consider the reduction possibilities," says Chris Stoate. "For example, LaserNetworks® has recently decided to exclusively offer the REFLEXION brand of remanufactured toner cartridges because they're known to reduce the carbon footprint by 74 per cent - a small change that brings substantial environmental impact and at less cost than regular toner."

Approximately 97 per cent of the combined components (plastic, metal, rubber, paper, foam, and toner) in the toner cartridge can be recycled. If it isn't, the plastic, made of engineering-grade polymers, takes at least 1,000 years to decompose.

A study by PE International showed that REFLEXION toner cartridges reduce CO2 emissions by 74 per cent, global warming by 76 per cent, ozone depletion by 72 per cent, and provide energy savings of 70 per cent.

"We're excited about being able to offer clients desiring to be better corporate stewards, a product such as REFLEXION that does so much to preserve our environment," says Chris Stoate. "Environmental reductions such as these are an example of the small, simple steps companies can take, to become better environmental stewards - a small step perhaps, but multiplied by the number of businesses in North America, the significance is huge."

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For further information or interviews contact:

Peter Turkington / Strategic Communications Solutions / ON BEHALF OF LASERNETWORKS / Direct Phone: 905.901.9218 / Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Treat the problem, not the symptoms

2008-04-20T12:53:00.004-05:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA RELEASE

January 24, 2008

Underachieving students and high drop-out rates are a literacy problem, not a racial one

January 24, 2008, TORONTO - There has been much research done linking low literacy with high drop-out rates.

Recently, a concerned TD Canada Trust published a report which stated that low literacy rates are hampering life skills and affecting business. It also stated that if left unaddressed, other issues may arise which lead to increased high school drop out rates, crime and unemployment.

That high drop-out rates due to low literacy exist should not be a surprise. According to The Movement for Canadian Literacy (MCL), low literacy is also closely linked to poverty, poor health and unemployment.

There was a time when there were lots of good jobs for people who couldn't read, but those days are gone. Today a person who can't read has trouble just finding work of any kind. As a result, people who cannot read, fall outside the norms of society with alarming frequency.

Seventy per cent of the people in jail in North America read at the two lowest literacy levels, which means they read nothing, or only well enough to understand the directions on a pill bottle.

While the Toronto District School Board's consideration to start an Afro-centric school could benefit the community by instilling an increased appreciation for culture, instilling pride of heritage, among other things, it will do little to reduce drop-out rates because drop-out rates are not a racial issue, but one of literacy. Low literacy rates affect all cultures and socio-economic classes as evidenced by The Movement for Canadian Literacy (MCL) which estimates that 9 million out of 36 million Canadians lack the literacy skills needed for daily living.

"The problem is low literacy, but to correct it we must deal with the root cause - ineffective teaching methodologies," says Dr. Deborah Chesnie Cooper, Developmental and Educational Psychologist and Director of The Chesnie Cooper Educational Centre*. "For years the teaching methodology used by the educational system was Whole Language, but they admit now, that it was faulty at best."

Seventy-four per cent of children who are unsuccessful readers in the third grade are still unsuccessful readers in the ninth grade (Journal of Child Neurology, January, 1995).

"It would be easy to blame the students for their lack of progress, and many mistakenly do, except for the fact that over 85 per cent of Canadians are either average or above average in intelligence, so the students are smart enough to understand - they just can't read well enough to understand what they read," says Dr. Debby Cooper. "However, with early detection and successful remediation, teaching of basic reading skills is possible and can lead to effective change - I know this to be true because throughout my 30 years of practice working with those with low literacy, dyslexia and Learning Disorders (LD's), I've seen success first hand."

Every child has the ability to learn, but some just learn differently.

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CEO of Major Ukrainian Brewery visits Canada

2008-04-20T12:48:00.004-05:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA RELEASE

January 21, 2008

Petr Chernyshov plans international expansion of Ukraine’s leading premium beer, Slavutich

January 21, 2008, OAKVILLE - Petr Chernyshov, CEO of Baltic Beverages Holding (BBH), Ukraine, one of the country's largest brewers, recently met with John Vellinga, President of Multiculture Bevco, the Canadian distributor of the company's two premium beer brands, Slavutich and Lvivske.

Chernyshov is the first BBH Ukraine official to visit Canada.

"Canada is going to be one of our most important export markets and we plan to dedicate far more resources than we have up to now", said Petr Chernyshov. "There is a large population of Ukrainians in Canada who understand that beer is also about culture, heritage and community. Ukrainians appreciate and know how to enjoy their beer-that's why Slavutich and Lvivske have done well here in Canada. That is why this market has so much promise."

Chernyshov also unveiled the new logo and can design which will be on display and available in Canadian stores early 2008. The new look has been received well in the Ukraine. Slavutich sales have tripled and BBH brands now make up over half of the Ukrainian premium beer segment.

In 2001, Multiculture Bevco began importing Slavutich to Canada. In its first year Slavutich sold three times more than that of its Ukrainian predecessor, mostly due to its superior quality. Lvivske launched in 2004, has enjoyed similar success. Both beers are crafted according to the Bavarian Purity Act and use only natural ingredients and no preservatives.

BBH Ukraine has a varied and interesting brewing heritage with its Slavutich and Lvivske brands. Slavutich is produced at the most modern brewery in Europe. Its gleaming, state-of-the-art Kyiv brewery is the newest on the continent. On the other end of the scale, Lvivske is crafted in the oldest and most historic brewery in Ukraine.

In fact, the Lvivske brewery hosts Ukraine's only museum of brewing and its tasting cellar is home to Lviv's most popular restaurant. The brewery even has a chapel in which services are conducted for employees and water is blessed for each batch of beer.

Oliver Dawson, a noted Canadian beer expert and President of the Beer Lover's Tour Company, conducted a private tasting for Cheryshov, giving him the opportunity to sample a variety of Canadian mainstream beers and micro-brews. Mr. Chernyshov also visited the Brick brewing company in Waterloo, Ontario's first micro-brewery. He toured Brick's facilities and met with senior managers and company founder Jim Brickman.

"In terms of production, BBH is the size of the largest breweries in Canada, however, I think that our beer has more in common with micro-brews like Brick," said Chernyshov. "Like us, they make beer from all natural ingredients and promote the culture and enjoyment of good quality, authentic beer. We also brew craft beer - just on a very big scale."

"If you were only allowed to have one beer in your fridge, Slavutich or Lvivske should be it", says Vellinga. "These beers are crowd pleasers. Drinkers of imported and premium beers appreciate their high quality, while mainstream domestic beer drinkers appreciate the taste - which is not that different from what they are used to - just better."

Slavutich and Lvivske, through Multiculture Bevco, has supported hundreds of Ukrainian community organizations throughout Canada, including the Bloor West Ukrainian Festival, the Dauphin Canadian National Ukrainian Festival, the Shumka Ukrainian Dancers, several multicultural fairs, cultural clubs and student organizations. Both beers are available at the LCBO in Ontario, MLCC Liquor Marts in Manitoba, SLGA liquor stores in Saskatchewan and over 100 Alberta liquor stores. For more information go to www.ukiestore.com.

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For further information or interviews contact:

Peter Turkington / Strategic Communications Solutions / ON BEHALF OF MULTICULTURE BEVCO / Direct Phone: 905.901.9218 / Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Remediation teaches a student to learn any subject—even math

2008-04-20T12:42:00.004-05:00

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MEDIA RELEASE

January 7, 2008

Dr. Debby Chesnie Cooper talks about 123 dEcode® Math

January 7, 2008, TORONTO - Learning disabilities affect up to 20 per cent of North America's population and greatly impact both literacy and numeracy skills.

A recent report by TD Canada Trust stated that low literacy rates are hampering life skills and affecting business. If not addressed, other issues may arise which lead to increased high school drop out rates, crime and unemployment.

A Durham District School Board teacher notes just how serious the issue of low literacy and numeracy skills is becoming.

"A grade nine student couldn't add six plus one without a calculator," said the teacher. "After teaching the same class for several weeks it became apparent that many students were so accustomed to working with calculators they couldn't do the simplest of math problems."

Dr. Debby Chesnie Cooper and The Chesnie Cooper Educational Centre's clinical and research practices over the past 30 years have focused almost exclusively on those referred to as "unresponsive learners," with great success. For those seeking help for their literacy and numeracy deficiencies, many of Dr. Chesnie Cooper's peers view her as a last resort.

"Every child has the ability to learn," says Dr. Debby Cooper. "Some just learn differently."

Dr. Cooper has taken time to listen and study children, choosing to follow the example of Jean Piaget, a Swiss philosopher, natural scientist and developmental psychologist, who is well known for his work studying children and his theory of cognitive development.

"Textbooks make too many assumptions and move too quickly," says Dr. Debby Cooper. "They assume learning has already taken place by the time the child enters grade one and that students have somehow learned all the previous facts needed to move forward."

With over 25 years of development and augmentation in a clinical environment, working with people of all ages and different socioeconomic groups, ABC dEcode® Reading and 123 dEcode® Math are unique in that they address the underlying processing problems which often occur in the development of reading and numeracy skills.

123 dEcode® is a learning program that systematically and thoroughly teaches the basic, simple computational skills - addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, using a series of math workbooks reflecting this unique learning approach.

"This is the most complete and thorough teaching I have ever come across," is a common remark of mothers after reviewing 123 dEcode®'s computational skills.

123 dEcode® progresses to teaching the application of mathematical skills through a rules-based learning approach - fractions, integers, rationals and beyond. Like an encyclopedia, each topic can be easily referenced to view a problem's computational steps.

"For students of all ages, 123 dEcode® is serious learning and provides an unparalleled opportunity to learn math," says Dr. Cooper. "Learning through the program is satisfying and effective."

One student who had just completed learning squares with 123 dEcode® in the summer, came home after the first week of school's fall session excited and proud of what he had accomplished.

"Guess what," he exclaimed to his mother. "We had a test on squares. And thanks to Dr. Cooper, I got 100% because she made me learn that book."

"123 dEcode® has a broad application and is not limited to those with learning disabilities," says Dr. Cooper. "It can greatly benefit those without disorders; it has even proven effective with preschoolers."

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Festive season just getting started

2008-04-20T12:38:00.003-05:00

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MEDIA RELEASE

January 6, 2008

Over one million Ukrainians in Canada celebrate Christmas January 7

January 6, 2008, OAKVILLE - Just when the majority of Canadians think the festive season is over and it's back to business as usual, close to 1.1 million Ukrainian Canadians are beginning their Christmas festivities - starting with Christmas Eve celebrations on January 6.

Canada has the world's third-largest Ukrainian population; only the Ukraine and Russia have more. They're a community that hasn't forgotten their roots as they still observe age-old customs and traditions passed down from generation to generation.

Festivities begin Christmas Eve and end 12 days later with the Feast of the Epiphany, bringing the family together to eat special foods and recall past traditions. For instance, two tablecloths are spread over the table, one for past ancestors and another for those still living. And as not to forget the real reason for the season, hay is placed under the tablecloths and under the table to remember Christ's birth in a manger.

"One of the traditions I like best is the twelve courses served for supper honouring each of Christ's Apostles," says John Vellinga, President of Multiculture Bevco. "It's great to celebrate with family and friends - dancing, singing and, enjoying Ukrainian products such as Slavutich and Livivske."

In a recent visit to Toronto, Petr Chernyshov, CEO of Baltic Beverages Holding (BBH), one of Ukraine's largest brewers announced that BBH is dedicated to growing sales of Slavutich and Lvivske in Canada. He also unveiled the new logo and can design for both beers, which will be available in Canadian stores early this year.

"Canada is going to be one of BBH's most important export markets," said Petr Chernyshov .

Slavutich and Lvivske, through Multiculture Bevco, support hundreds of Ukrainian community organizations, including the Bloor West Ukrainian Festival, the Dauphin Canadian National Ukrainian Festival, and the Shumka Ukrainian Dancers.

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SupperWorks gives post secondary students have healthy meal choices

2008-04-20T12:35:00.002-05:00

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MEDIA RELEASE

January 2, 2008

Return to school with more than just suitcases full – more time for studies

January 2, 2008, OAKVILLE - It's an accepted fact that nutritious meals have tremendous health benefits. However, common complaints such as time and affordability often prevent people from developing healthy eating habits. University and college students are no exception.

"In University it's always busy, so healthy meal choices aren't always an option," says Harmony, a third year student at Ottawa University. "Lack of time and a tight budget led to quick-food choices; macaroni, hotdogs, pizza, and fast-food restaurants."

For several years, SupperWorks, Canada's premiere meal prep business, has been helping students deal with these very issues - saving time and providing nutritious, cost-effective meals.

"For me, not eating properly resulted in weight gain, a sluggish feeling and tiredness," says Harmony.

These effects are consistent with a 2004 pediatric study about the Effects of Fast-Food Consumption on Energy Intake and Diet Quality Among Children. It showed that those who eat fast food regularly could gain up to 6 pounds per year over a 15-year period.

"For less than five dollars per entree, and two hours prep time, families can pack their students over a month's supply of healthy, nutritious meals to take back to school," says Joni Lien, Co-founder of SupperWorks. "It's simple and inexpensive - SupperWorks does all the prep, clean up and menu selection, allowing you to prepare 12 full-sized entrees each serving 4-6 people."

In a student's busy world, the less time it takes to prepare meals, the more time there is available for study. Nutritious meals play an important part in academic performance - resulting in a healthier body and mind.

"It's a great way to send students back to school after the winter break," says Joni Lien. "Just pack them a month's supply of our nutritious entrees, frozen to preserve their goodness and ready to stick in the oven at a moments notice."

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For further information or interviews contact:

Peter Turkington / Strategic Communications Solutions / ON BEHALF OF SUPPERWORKS / Direct Phone: 905.901.9218 / Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Canada's largest polar bear dip for charity raises over $62,000

2008-04-20T11:44:00.002-05:00

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 1, 2008

23rd Annual Courage Brothers' Polar Bear Dip for World Vision raises record amount

January 1, 2008 - Todd and Trent Courage, founders of the Courage Brothers' Polar Bear Dip for World Vision, are pleased to announce that this year's event at Coronation Park, Oakville, raised upwards of $59,000 for World Vision's water projects in Sudan.

"The funds raised here today will help drill boreholes, install wells, lay pipes and repair existing wells in four villages in Sudan." says Trent Courage. "We had over 400 dippers today and close to 5,000 spectators from all over Canada. It's great to see everyone working together for such a great cause."

ABOUT THE COURAGE BROTHERS' POLAR BEAR DIP FOR WORLD VISION:

The Courage Brothers' Polar Bear Dip for World Vision first took place in 1985 on a dare from Todd and Trent's mother.
The Courage Brothers' Polar Bear Dip for World Vision is now Canada's largest polar bear dip for Charity.
Visitors to the Courage Brothers' Polar Bear Dip for World Vision have traveled from as far away as Australia and Hong Kong.
Platinum level sponsors for the 23rd Annual Courage Brothers' Polar Bear Dip include: Campbell's Soup at Hand; Megaloid; Thermos.
Full details about the 23rd Annual Courage Brothers' Polar Bear Dip can be found at www.polarbeardip.ca

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For further information or interviews contact:

Peter Turkington / ON BEHALF OF THE 23RD ANNUAL COURAGE BROTHERS' POLAR BEAR DIP / Direct Phone: 905.901.9218 / Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

The 23rd Annual Courage Brothers’ Polar Bear Dip for World Vision

2007-12-27T10:43:00.000-05:00

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 27, 2007

Proceeds to benefit water projects in Sudan

December 27, 2007, OAKVILLE -- Five hundred dippers are expected to brave the icy waters of Lake Ontario again this year during the 23rd annual Courage Brothers' Polar Bear Dip for World Vision, an event that has become a Greater Toronto Area New Year's Day tradition. More than $350,000 has been raised to provide clean water in developing countries since the first dip in 1985.

The event, which began when local businessmen Todd and Trent Courage jumped into Lake Ontario in Burlington, is now Canada's largest polar bear dip for charity

"Our event has raised more than $350,000 in recent years for World Vision's life-saving water programs," says Trent Courage. "This year we will have 500 participants ready to dive into icy water to raise funds to construct water systems for four villages in Sudan."

The Courage brothers and friends hope to raise a minimum of $40,000 with the 2008 event. The proceeds will be used to drill boreholes, install wells, lay water pipes and repair existing wells in four villages in Sudan where World Vision operates community development projects.

The event's festival-like atmosphere, with live music, costumes and celebrities, drew more than 400 participants and 5,000 spectators to Coronation Park in Oakville on January 1, 2007.

"Access to clean drinking water should be a basic right for all children, whether they live in Sudan or in the GTA," said Dave Toycen, president of World Vision Canada. "We are so encouraged by the hundreds of GTA residents who brave Lake Ontario to make sure Sudanese children can exercise that right."

WHEN: New Year's Day, Tuesday January 1, 2008

WHERE: Coronation Park, Oakville, Ontario (Lakeshore Road between 3rd and 4th Line)

WHAT:
- 12:30 p.m. Registration begins
- Live band performs on main stage

- 1:00 p.m. Mayor of Oakville and Regional Chair of Halton welcome visitors
- Singing of O' Canada
- Costume contest on main stage

- 1:30 p.m. Pre-dip interview availability (Todd Courage, Trent Courage, Richard Chapman of World Vision)
- Please register at media table to ensure interview

2:00 p.m. Polar Bear Dip begins

All Participants:
* With the $25 registration fee, will receive a swag bag including a t-shirt, Campbell's Soup at Hand, Thermos travel mug and much more (total value over $100)
* With every $100 raised, will receive a ballot for a chance to win prizes
* Will be eligible to win prizes for the best individual costume and the best group costume

The Courage Brothers are pleased to recognize the following platinum level sponsors for the 2008 Polar Bear Dip:

Campbell's Soup at Hand

Thermos

Megaloid

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For further information: Karen Homer, World Vision, Phone: 416.936.4159, Email: Karen_homer@worldvision.ca or Peter Turkington, On Behalf of the Courage Brothers' Polar Bear Dip, Phone: 905.901.9218, Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca or visit www.polarbeardip.ca

Campbell’s warms up Canada’s largest charitable dip

2007-12-27T10:34:00.001-05:00

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 20, 2007

The Courage Brothers Annual Polar Bear Dip welcomes the Campbell Company of Canada as a Platinum sponsor

December 20, 2007, OAKVILLE -- The 23rd Annual Courage Brothers' Polar Bear Dip welcomes the Campbell Company of Canada as a platinum sponsor.

The Courage Brothers' Polar Bear Dip is Canada's largest charitable polar bear dip and an annual January 1st tradition. The purpose is to fundraise in support of fresh water projects in developing countries around the world, providing solutions which improve quality of life. The overall essence of this event is 'water for water' through sponsorship. Participants who take the 'plunge' help provide fresh water to communities in need.

"What's most exciting about this event is its purpose - providing fresh water for those who don't have any," says Todd Courage, co-founder of the event. "And it doesn't get any better than seeing over 500 crazy people, of all ages and walks of life, take a plunge into the icy waters of Lake Ontario to make this point. Without the help of sponsors like Campbell Canada, the dip's goals could never be fulfilled."

For generations, Campbell Canada has provided Canadian families with nourishing and satisfying foods, at home and on-the-go. A presence in Canada since 1930, the company has long history of supporting community initiatives.

"Campbell Canada is pleased to support the Courage Brothers' Polar Bear Dip this year," says Anne Yourt, Brand Communications Manager, Campbell Company of Canada. "It's a meaningful, fun event and people naturally think of hot soup on cold days, so it's a natural fit." In addition to the platinum sponsorship, Campbell will have its convenient, on-the-go microwaveable soups, like Soup at Hand and Chunky To Go bowls, on site to keep the dippers warm, as well as a Chunky-branded hot tub that will be donated to the Polar Bear Dipper who raises the most funds.

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For further information: Anne Yourt, Brand Communications Manager - Campbell Company of Canada, Phone: 416.251.1131 ext. 8479, Email: anne_yourt@ca.campbellsoup.com or Peter Turkington, Strategic Communications Solutions (ON BEHALF OF THE 23RD ANNUAL COURAGE BROTHERS POLAR BEAR DIP) Phone: 905.901.9218, Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

What-If Productions launches Designer Light for Glow Bear

2007-12-27T10:27:00.000-05:00

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 12, 2007

New designer light makes drawing and writing on Glow Bear fun and easy

December 12, 2007, TORONTO -- The Original In the Dark? Glow Bear, which combines the comfort of a night light and huggable friend, introduces the In the Dark? Designer Light.

"The designer light allows the imagination to run wild making it fun and easy to draw shapes, letters and designs on any of the Glow Bears," says Tim Mercer, creator of In the Dark? Glow Bear. "Just simply use it like a pen and write a story, note, or whatever; the choices are endless."

One of the most proven toys of all times, the "Teddy Bear" has been given a new twist. Not only is Glow Bear soft, warm and cuddly, and glows in the dark - it now has a designer light. When the room is dark, the Designer Light makes playing with Glow Bear like pulling out a new toy each night.

"What's really exciting, the next night the bear is a clean slate and ready to glow all over again with new designs," says Tim Mercer. "Glow Bear and now Designer Light, are some of my most exciting creations because they're compelling to both children and adults."

Another feature of writing on Glow Bear with its specially designed light, means there is no mess to clean up as there are no inks, no markers being used, just light.

Presently, more products are being developed specifically designed to accompany the Original Glow Bear. For more information go to www.what-ifproductions.com

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For further information contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
Public Relations Solutions
ON BEHALF OF WHAT-IF PRODUCTIONS
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

23rd Courage Polar Bear Dip to start 2008 off with a splash

2007-12-27T10:20:00.000-05:00

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December 5, 2007

A refreshing start to the New Year with Canada’s largest charitable polar bear dip

December 5, 2007, OAKVILLE -- The weather is perfect; sun shining brightly and not a cloud in the sky. It's the perfect day to be on the beach. Suddenly, a cool wind blows in from the west as the thermometer reads a balmy…- 14 degrees C.

"We're less than a month away from one of the craziest and most exciting events of the winter," says Trent Courage, co-founder of the Dip.

The 23rd Annual Courage Brothers' Polar Bear Dip, Canada's largest charitable dip, will support fresh water projects in Sudan through World Vision Canada.

"It's water for water," says the dip's other co-founder, Todd Courage. "By jumping into freezing cold water, our supporters will help raise enough money to drill bore holes, build wells, install water pumps and repair damaged wells in 4 villages in Sudan."

The Courage Brothers' Polar Bear Dip started in 1985 when only five dippers plunged into Lake Ontario from a Burlington residence. Now the Courage Brothers' Polar Bear Dip attracts over 400 dippers and 5,000 spectators to Coronation Park, Oakville, each January 1.

"It really is quite an event. With a costume contest, live music, prizes, hot drinks, along with all the excitement and fun, it's a carnival-like atmosphere," says Rob, who has participated in this dip for five years. "But what's most refreshing about dipping into the icy waters of Lake Ontario is the money it raises and the good news that the dip brings to some of the less developed communities around the world."

For the past 13 years, The Courage Brothers' Polar Bear Dip has partnered with World Vision to fund water projects in countries such as:

South Africa
Malawi
Tanzania
Honduras
Nicaragua
Rwanda
Afghanistan
South East Asia (tsunami relief)
Kenya

The fundraising goal for The 23rd Annual Courage Brothers' Polar Bear Dip is $40,000.

To donate or become a corporate sponsor visit www.polarbeardip.ca

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For further information contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
Public Relations Solutions
ON BEHALF OF THE 23RD ANNUAL
COURAGE BROTHERS' POLAR BEAR DIP
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

What makes premium vodka, truly premium?

2007-12-27T10:14:00.000-05:00

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November 29, 2007

It's not just about the fancy bottle

November 29, 2007, OAKVILLE -- With so many brands of vodka being sold today, there are several determining factors that make a premium brand.

Typically, vodka is a colourless liquor consisting of water and alcohol. So pure and water-like is this liquor that Slavics called it "voda," which is the Slavic word for "water." One would think with such basic ingredients, taste and quality would vary little. Not so according to wine and spirits experts.

"In fact, all vodkas are not alike. Vodka can be distilled in a good many ways, from a great many substances, including wheat, rye, beets, corn, potatoes, and sugar cane," says Alex Abramovich of Slate Magazine. "As a result, each brand has a distinct smell, flavor, aftertaste, and burn (i.e., the burning sensation vodka creates as it goes down your gullet)."

Many of the so-called premium vodka brands are considered premium just because of their price tag. Their expensive packaging makes buying their brand pricier. In a recent conversation with Jean Marc Daucourt, whose family is the creator of the premium vodka, Jean Marc, he said “For many well known, upscale vodkas, it is very much about the marketing, bottle and image.”

Truly, premium vodka should not be measured by its cost or by the income of its consumers, nor by slick marketing campaigns and sexy bottle designs, but by its taste and texture.

Whether you're just the average person looking to have a shot of vodka or a CEO of a major corporation, tasting Slava Ultra Premium most always provokes a similar but surprising response. "Delicious, simply delicious." And after receiving a bottle of Slava Ultra Premium as a house warming gift, another said, "Oh I've tried that, it's yummy."

"Slava is premium quality and taste, without the premium price and makes the perfect martini," says John Vellinga, president of Multiculture Marketing, which owns the Slava brand. "With its superb flavour and natural sweetness, you don't have to add anything - just drop in an olive or a twist and you're done."

Those who have tried Slava Ultra Premium Vodka describe the taste as clean and exceptionally smooth. The reason - it's four times distilled and 12 times filtered and only the finest ingredients are used. And rather than an expensive bottle with fancy etchings or design, Slava chose a less expensive but practical triangular shape; one that doesn't roll around in the freezer.

So are brands such as Grey Goose, Belvedere, Slava, Vox, Wyborowa and Stoli elit truly premium vodkas? Why not let the quality of their taste and texture be the deciding factor.

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For further information contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
Public Relations Specialists
ON BEHALF OF SLAVA ULTRA PREMIUM VODKA
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Greener days ahead for Canadian golfers

2007-12-27T10:08:00.000-05:00

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 28, 2007

Parmaster’s indoor golf greens ideal for practicing year round

November 28, 2007, TORONTO -- The chip and putt are two of the most important strokes in golf which only get better with practice. Parmasters Golf Training Centers make it possible to practice these strokes year round in their indoor golf centres.

Just ask players such as Tiger Woods, Vijay Singh and Mike Weir and they'll tell you that improvement only comes through consistent training and practice. Few ever imagine reaching their playing level, but concede that any improvement would be a step in the right direction.

Whether professional, experienced, casual or new, all golfers agree with the old adage, that "practice makes perfect." And yet, it's actually perfect practice that makes perfect. And that means training in the ideal conditions. What's challenging for the average golfer is finding the time and place to practice year round.

"It's no wonder that professionals putt well when many of them, such as Vijay Singh, have professionally designed golf greens right in their own backyard," says Parmasters Chief Golf Professional and Co-Founder, Scott Hazledine. "To have one of these would be any golfer's dream."

"Having a surface this good to practice on is incredible," says Vijay Singh, 2004 PGA champion. "[It]… performs like a tour green."

The putting greens are so realistic and play like real greens that a golfer can play the same stroke that's used on real grass. "We've found that pros and amateurs can greatly improve their putting strokes by being able to rely on consistent putts with a "true roll" from every position on the green," says Weston Weber, founder and owner of Southwest Putting Greens Technologies, Inc.

Over 25 PGA pros own these putting greens, and it is these same, quality greens that Parmasters are installing in each of their 12,000 to 15,000 square-feet golf centres, beginning with Canada's first Parmasters centre which opens early 2008 in Edmonton. Another 12 golf training centers and 20 Links Golf Cafes will follow in the spring.

"Not only is Parmasters 'the ultimate golf training and practice facility,' they make learning, practicing and playing golf fun," says Andre Ferris, Canadian Regional Franchisor of Parmasters Golf Training Centers. "As I speak with people across Canada about this opportunity, it's exciting to hear their enthusiasm and anticipation for the centres to open."

Parmasters is the world's first year-round indoor golf training centre franchise that literally guarantees results and is currently establishing itself in the Canadian market. And with over 30 franchises already awarded in Canada, and only opportunities in Ontario, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Quebec, to be sold, finding a location close to home shouldn't be too difficult.

Visit www.parmastersfranchise.com for franchising opportunities and details.

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For further information contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
Public Relations Specialists
ON BEHALF OF PARMASTERS
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

General Hillier speaks at packed fundraiser for Wounded Warriors

2007-12-27T10:04:00.000-05:00

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November 23, 2007

RMC’s Alumni Gala helps the Wounded Warriors Fund and establishes bursary

November 23, 2007, TORONTO -- In celebration of Canada's global military contribution, General Rick Hillier, Chief of the Defense Staff addressed a full auditorium of government, corporate, local and military guests at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel yesterday.

The fundraising gala was hosted by The Toronto Branch of the Royal Military Colleges Club of Canada to benefit the Wounded Warriors Fund and establish a bursary to allow members of the Reserve Forces to attend the Royal Military College.

The Royal Military College (RMC) is a national academic institution whose sole purpose is to train Canada's future officers for leadership roles.

The Wounded Warriors Fund was established to aid those brave men and women whose lives are forever changed by injuries sustained while on duty in places like Afghanistan. It contributes quality of life items to soldiers during their time of greatest need.

"When soldiers have been injured and are rushed to a military hospital with just the clothes on their backs, it is then that they are most vulnerable. It's the time when they need encouragement and Canada's support the most," says Captain Wayne Johnson. "We are raising funds on their behalf to provide items like a 'Wounded Warriors Pack' containing items that will help to build the soldiers' morale while on the road to recovery."

The evening's events included the presenting of The Birchall Leadership Award, an award named in honour of Air Commodore Leonard Birchall, a Canadian hero of World War II, to Major Danny McLeod. Major McLeod is a man who has provided inspired leadership in war and peace as an officer and as a great sportsman and coach with links throughout the hockey community and Canadian university sports organizations.

The evenings events were all about showing support for our military.

"It's a great time to be a soldier because we have the support of a nation," says, General Hillier. "The best medicine of all is feeling valued by our countrymen."

Don Cherry, host of Hockey Night in Canada, and one of the events honourary patrons, knows the importance of supporting our troops and the morale boost that it gives. His constant recalling of Canadian military exploits and attention to Canadian peace-keeping missions has been so appreciated he was recently awarded honorary life membership in the Royal Canadian Legion..

Further recognizing Don Cherry's support for the military, General Hillier paused during his speech to award Don Cherry The Canadian Armed Forces Medalion for Distinguished Service.

Don Cherry learned for the first time, that his family had a combined 80 years of Canadian Military service and have been involved since 1890.

"...the troops love General Hillier," says Don Cherry. "He's a leader of leaders."

The RMC College Alumni sponsor events such as this in an effort to garner community backing that demonstrates support and appreciation for the brave men and women who put themselves in the line of fire.

"It was encouraging to see a strong representation from both civilians and corporate Ontario. The support shown through their attendance and donations will be a great morale boost for our military," says Gord Clarke, President RMC Club of Canada - Toronto Branch. "As the need for financial support is great, the RMC alumni are hoping that the public and corporations will continue to make donations during the weeks following this great event."

For donations or more information, visit www.toronto.rmcclub.ca/leadershipdinner.htm.

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For further information contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
Public Relations Specialists
ON BEHALF OF RMC TORONTO BRANCH
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Gala at Fairmont Royal York to show support for Canadian soldiers

2007-12-27T09:58:00.000-05:00

MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 21, 2007

RMC alumni to host event to Celebrate Canada’s Global Military Contribution and benefit Wounded Warriors Fund

November 21, 2007, TORONTO -- The Toronto Branch of the Royal Military Colleges Club of Canada is holding a fundraising dinner Friday, November 23, 2007 at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel in celebration of Canada's global military contribution.

The Royal Military College (RMC) is a national academic institution whose sole purpose is to train Canada's future officers for leadership roles. Many former officers can be found within business, government and academic communities in the GTA and they understand what it means as a soldier to have the support of their country. "Our role is to help keep the morale high by showing our military appreciation and support for putting their lives in the line of fire," says Gord Clarke, President RMC Club of Canada - Toronto Branch.

The Birchall Leadership Award, an award named for Air Commodore Leonard Birchall, a Canadian hero of World War II, will be presented to Major Danny McLeod, a man who has provided inspired leadership in war and peace as an officer and as a great sportsman and coach.

General Rick Hillier, Chief of Defence Staff, will provide the keynote address to over 500 guests. Serving members of GTA Reserve Forces will be in attendance, as will Officer Cadets from RMC. Entertainment will be provided by military bands from the Reserve Forces and RMC.

The fundraising dinner proceeds and corporate donations will benefit the Wounded Warriors Fund and establish a bursary which allows members of the Reserve Forces to attend RMC. For dinner tickets, donations or more information go to www.toronto.rmcclub.ca/leadershipdinner.htm

"As this event is about the GTA community showing their support for our military, the RMC alumni encourages civilian and corporate involvement both by sponsorship and attendance at this inaugural event," says Clarke.

"When soldiers have been injured and are rushed to a military hospital with just the clothes on their backs, it is then that they are most vulnerable. It's the time when they need encouragement and Canada's support the most," says Captain Wayne Johnson. "We are raising funds on their behalf to provide items like a 'Wounded Warriors Pack' containing items that will help to build the soldiers' morale while on the road to recovery."

The Wounded Warriors Fund was established to aid those brave men and women whose lives are forever changed by injuries sustained while on duty in places like Afghanistan. It contributes quality of life items to soldiers during their time of greatest need.

"With dinner tickets limited to 500, it's encouraging to have corporate sponsors making donations as a show of their military support," says Gord Clarke. "And with members of the community attending such as The Honourable David C. Onley, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, The Honourable Joseph A. Day, Senator and Don Cherry, TV host of Hockey Night in Canada, one of the events honourary patrons, and honorary life member of the Royal Canadian Legion, the support is overwhelming."

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LaserNetworks® acquires Quebec’s TECKNOLASER

2007-11-11T15:34:00.000-05:00

MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 11, 2007

Leaders in printer supplies and service join forces and take Reflexion toner national

November 11, 2007, OAKVILLE - LaserNetworks®, Canada's leading print solutions company is acquiring TECKNOLASER, Quebec's leading image consultant and winner of the Government of Quebec's 2005 Environmental Phoenix Award.

TECKNOLASER, is known for its success in the recovery, collection and re-use of printer, fax and photocopier cartridges. Its methods enable over 85 per cent of the original cartridge components to be re-used in the remanufacturing process. The remaining 15 per cent is sorted and forwarded to other recycling firms.

LaserNetworks® will be rebranding its toner under the Reflexion label and through their distribution network will expand its industry leading, environmentally friendly toner products across Canada and the United States. An independent study by PE International shows that their refurbished toner cartridges reduce the carbon footprint by 75 per cent compared to new single use cartridges.

"Doing our part to ensure that we are being environmentally friendly has always been a number one priority of LaserNetworks®, says Chris Stoate, President of LaserNetworks®. "Acquiring TECKNOLASER is a natural fit."

LaserNetworks® revolutionary COST PER PAGE® program of printing and imaging fleet management services, including printers, multi-function devices, supplies and/or service on a Pay as you Print? basis, opens a myriad of opportunities for TECKNOLASER in Quebec.

For over 20 years, LaserNetworks® has been privately owned and operated by its founder Chris Stoate and has been Canada's leading print solutions company, providing print solution services, and products to virtually every sized company across Canada and continental USA including Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, major chartered banks, large law firms and virtually any customer whose demands require a local presence and central responsibility.

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For further information contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF LASERNETWORKS
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Quebec’s TECKNOLASER takes Reflexion toner national

2007-11-11T15:28:00.000-05:00

MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 11, 2007

TECKNOLASER and LaserNetworks leaders in printer supplies and service, join forces

November 11, 2007, MONTREAL - TECKNOLASER, Quebec's leading image consultant and winner of the Government of Quebec's 2005 Environmental Phoenix Award, has joined forces with LaserNetworks®, Canada's leading print solutions company.

TECKNOLASER, is known for its success in the recovery, collection and re-use of printer, fax and photocopier cartridges. Its methods enable over 85 per cent of the original cartridge components to be re-used in the remanufacturing process. The remaining 15 per cent is sorted and forwarded to other recycling firms.

"The synergies between TECKNOLASER and LaserNetworks®' will lead to amazing growth opportunities," says Chris Stoate, President of LaserNetworks®. "It's a natural fit."

Through LaserNetworks®' distribution network TECKNOLASER will be able to expand distribution of its industry leading, environmentally friendly toner products across Canada and the United States. An independent study by PE International shows that their refurbished toner cartridges reduce the carbon footprint by 75 per cent compared to new single use cartridges.

LaserNetworks® revolutionary COST PER PAGE® program of printing and imaging fleet management services, including printers, multi-function devices, supplies and/or service on a Pay as you Print? basis, opens a myriad of opportunities for TECKNOLASER in the Quebec market.

For over 20 years LaserNetworks®, has been Canada's leading print solutions company, providing print solution services, and products to virtually every sized company across Canada and continental USA including Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, major chartered banks, large law firms and virtually any customer whose demands require a local presence and central responsibility.

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For further information contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF LASERNETWORKS
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

RMC alumni to host event to Celebrate Canada’s Global Military Contribution

2007-11-11T15:22:00.000-05:00

MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 11, 2007

Gala at the Fairmont Royal York to show support for Canadian soldiers

November 11, 2007, TORONTO – The Toronto Branch of the Royal Military Colleges Club of Canada is holding a fundraising dinner Friday, November 23, 2007 at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel in celebration of Canada’s global military contribution.

The Royal Military College (RMC) is a national academic institution whose sole purpose is to train Canada’s future officers for leadership roles. Many former officers can be found within business, government and academic communities in the GTA and they understand what it means as a soldier to have the support of their country. “Our role is to help keep the morale high by showing our military appreciation and support for putting their lives in the line of fire,” says Gord Clarke, President
RMC Club of Canada - Toronto Branch.

The Birchall Leadership Award, an award named for Air Commodore Leonard Birchall, a Canadian hero of World War I, will be presented to Major Danny McLeod, a man who has provided inspired leadership in war and peace as an officer and as a great sportsman and coach.
General Rick Hillier, Chief of Defence Staff, will provide the keynote address to over 500 guests. Serving members of GTA Reserve Forces will be in attendance, as will Officer Cadets from RMC. Entertainment will be provided by military bands from the Reserve Forces and RMC.

The fundraising dinner proceeds and corporate donations will benefit the Wounded Warriors Fund and establish a bursary which allows members of the Reserve Forces to attend RMC. For dinner tickets, donations or more information go to www.toronto.rmcclub.ca/leadershipdinner.htm

“As this event is about the GTA community showing their support for our military, the RMC alumni encourages civilian and corporate involvement both by sponsorship and attendance at this inaugural event,” says Clarke.

“When soldiers have been injured and are rushed to a military hospital with just the clothes on their backs, it is then that they are most vulnerable. It’s the time when they need encouragement and Canada’s support the most,” says Captain Wayne Johnson. “We are raising funds on their behalf to provide items like a ‘Wounded Warriors Pack’ containing items that will help to build the soldiers’ morale while on the road to recovery.”

The Wounded Warriors Fund was established to aid those brave men and women whose lives are forever changed by injuries sustained while on duty in places like Afghanistan. It contributes quality of life items to soldiers during their time of greatest need.

“With dinner tickets limited to 500, it’s encouraging to have corporate sponsors making donations as a show of their military support,” says Gord Clarke. “And with members of the community attending such as The Honourable David C. Onley, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, The Honourable Joseph A. Day, Senator and Don Cherry, TV host of Hockey Night in Canada, one of the events honourary patrons, and honorary life member of the Royal Canadian Legion, the support is overwhelming.”

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For further information or interviews contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF TORONTO’S ROYAL MILITARY COLLEGES CLUB OF CANADA
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

What-If Productions launches the Original In the Dark™ Glow Bear in time for Christmas

2007-11-11T15:19:00.000-05:00

MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 11, 2007

Glow bear combines comfort of a night light and huggable friend

November 11, 2007, TORONTO – The most common fear amongst children is fear of the dark. Each night as the lights go out they’re left alone in the dark to face spooky shadows and creaking floorboards. For years, one of the most proven toys to calm this fear has been the teddy bear. Tim Mercer, creator of the Original In the Dark™ Glow Bear takes this reliable, fuzzy friend and gives it a glow.

Glow Bear has all the features of the common teddy bear; it is soft, warm and cuddly but has a unique feature—it glows in the dark. It needs no batteries or electrical outlet, and comes to life at night. Its glow-in-the-dark fur makes Glow Bear shine all night and when the room is dark, emits a warm and reassuring light.. When children are in need of assurance from a huggable friend at night, Glow Bear is the friend that’s most easily found.

“One of the reasons that many children dislike going to bed can be attributed to the fact that their toys are put away for the night, the adventure and fantasy are over,” says Tim Mercer, creator of In the Dark™ Glow Bear. “But with Glow Bear, children will want to go to bed because the adventure and story begins at night.”

Tim is the ultimate entrepreneur who has owned several successful businesses throughout the past 15 years. He is also an inventor who loves the toy and game industry as each invention allows him to be a kid all over again.

Eight years ago, Tim Mercer, invented a glow-in-the-dark fabric. Excited about its potential, he played around with the glow process and came up with numerous applications. The end result; Glow Bear.

“In The Dark™, Glow Bear is one of my most exciting creations because it’s a bear which is compelling to both children and adults,” says Mercer.

Presently, other products are being developed specifically designed to accompany the Original Glow Bear.

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To schedule an interview contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF WHAT-IF PRODUCTIONS
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Studies show families that eat meals together are healthier eaters

2007-11-11T15:08:00.000-05:00

MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 11, 2007

Adolescents choose fruits and vegetables over junk food

Studies, conducted by the Journal of the American Dietetic Association, September 2007, show that there are health benefits to eating frequently together as a family. Children who have three or more family meals per week:

Have 50 per cent less risk for substance abuse
Are less likely to smoke
Are less likely to use alcohol
Experience increased dietary quality leading to a healthier body

“The sharing of food at meals has been a symbol of family unity, love, connections and communication,” says Mary Story PhD, RD, Professor, University of Minnesota.

After surveying over 1500 students, once in high school and later at the age of 20, the researchers found that “…eating family meals together during adolescence resulted in adults who ate more fruit, dark-green and orange vegetables and key nutrients, and drank less soft drinks.”

These facts emphasize the importance of families taking time out of their busy schedules to share a meal. Hectic schedules and busy, active lives threaten to erode adolescent health when busy families choose one of several last-minute meal solutions such as fast food or processed meals.

This same study is adamant in encouraging nutrition professionals to exhort families to have meals together as often as reasonably possible. However, for many families, it seems difficult to balance the two. After all, it takes time to prepare and eat a meal. This explains why people choose meals that need little or no preparation.

Recognizing the importance of eating together as a family unit is not new to SupperWorks, Canada’s premiere meal preparation franchise; they also understand nutrition.

“We’ve been helping families have more time together since we opened our first store – and after opening our twelfth store the trend continues,” says Joni Lien, Co-founder of SupperWorks. “In fact ‘love great food and family time,’ is one of our core messages, and was a motivating factor for establishing SupperWorks.”

“I came in… [to SupperWorks] with my son Christopher and we both had a wonderful time. Best of all, Christopher can't wait to try out everything we made,” says Monika Moravan. “I cooked the BBQ Pulled Chicken in my rice cooker overnight, he tried it for breakfast and decided to have it in a thermos for his lunch today at school. This from a kid who wouldn't eat chicken in any form other than chicken fingers!”

In a busy world with hectic, conflicting schedules, the less time it takes to prepare meals, the more time there is available for family. The new TBS comedy series, The Bill Engvall Show, recognizes this fact and features the family gathering at the dinner table for mealtime.

“Supperworks is definitely the best option for families who have little time to prepare meals and who find themselves eating less healthy alternatives or dining out on a regular basis,” says a regular customer of SupperWorks’ Newmarket location. “They make cooking meals easy, as each meal comes with a pre-printed label for cooking instructions and suggestions for serving.”

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For further information contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF SUPPERWORKS
Direct Phone: 905.901.0218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Dr. Debby Chesnie Cooper, Educational Psychologist, talks about the benefits of dEcode®

2007-10-29T09:47:00.000-05:00

MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 29, 2007

Curriculum proven effective in remediation of learning disabled

October 29, 2007, TORONTO – dEcode® is a philosophy incorporating both a method and a program, reinforced by the latest neurological research that reading occurs in a different area of the brain than language. And unlike language, reading is not innate, but must be taught.

“Early on in my private practice, I started seeing quite a number of children who had been diagnosed as ‘reading disabled’ but at the age of ten were incapable of sounding out printed words even though they had been given quite a bit of remedial help, specifically in the phonics area,” says Dr. Debby Chesnie Cooper, Educational Psychologist and Director of The Chesnie Cooper Educational Centre. “My quest to understand why led to exhaustive research and later to the development of dEcode®.”

With over 25 years of development and augmentation in a clinical environment, working with people of all ages and different socioeconomic groups, dEcode® is unique in that it addresses the underlying processing problems inherent in the development of reading and numeric skills.

Studies show, even in the worst cases of ‘reading disabled,’ dEcode® has a 100 per cent success rate, provided commitment is made with required follow through.

“My son is 9 years old [now] and in grade 4…This school year, things came to a head. My son withdrew into himself. He wanted to be alone. He hated school and wanted to be home schooled. He wished he was dead,” reports Christine Rick. “I was distraught and unsure what to do next.”

Mrs. Rick’s pediatrician referred her son Edward to Dr. Debby Chesnie Cooper, who is renowned for her research, development of dEcode® and specialization in helping people with CAPD and other learning disabilities.

“After only 2 visits and a conference call with Dr. Cooper, significant changes began to take place in Edward’s life,” says Mrs. Rick. “My son now sleeps through the night; he smiles and laughs. He tells jokes and loves to be around people; he loves school again; and he is feeling more confident about himself. In just one year using dEcode®, Edward went from a reading decoding level grade 3 to grade 9, scored perfect in reading a nonsense word test which he could not do initially, and his reading comprehension score went from early grade 4 to early grade 10.”

dEcode® is different from other phonology programs. “Existing programs don’t develop the true connection between the auditory to visual and visual to auditory systems. dEcode® is pure development of memory and not memorization,” says Dr. Cooper. “There seems to be too much assumption with other programs which results in teaching too much, too fast and implementing comprehension too soon while not recognizing that decoding must be kept separate from comprehension,”

While other programs emphasize rules, memorization and moving fast, dEcode® emphasizes moving slowly, initially, in order to move short term memory to working memory. “Reading is not having to think about the printed word,” says Dr. Cooper.

“dEcode® has a broad application and is not limited to those with learning disabilities,” says Dr. Cooper. “The fact that it has proven successful when applied to individuals with dyslexia, Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD), and other LDs show that it can greatly benefit those without disorders; it has even proven effective with preschoolers.”

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To schedule an interview contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF DR. DEBBY CHESNIE COOPER
& THE CHESNIE COOPER EDUCATIONAL CENTRE
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Being at the right place at the right time presents opportunities

2007-10-23T09:19:00.000-05:00

MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Oct 22, 2007

Linda Proctor shares secrets of realizing we’re in the right place at the right time

October 22, 2007, TORONTO - Small changes in behaviour can cause dramatic changes in outcomes. At least, that's what Linda Proctor found and it's resulted in huge returns in her network marketing business. It's also led her to put her successful method down in writing in a book, Does Your DNA Create Wealth, outlining how people can change their thought processes to overcome the obstacles preventing them from reaching their dreams.

"Before I met my husband, 28 years ago, I was earning $25,000 a year," says Linda Proctor. "One year later, I took his advice and earned $500,000.00."

So who is her husband, you ask?

He's Bob Proctor, the featured philosopher in the internationally acclaimed movie, The Secret.

"By implementing a few relatively simple exercises Bob suggested years ago, I continue to earn millions year after year." continues Linda. "And being at the right place at the right time presents incredible opportunities; however what we're often lacking is the awareness that we're in the right place at the right time!"

Linda's most recent involvement is in building awareness about Diamond Tree Global, a network marketing company providing clients with natural health products.

"Diamond Tree recognizes that these rare gifts from the Earth contain natural vital nutrients and live enzymes," says Jae Rang, Founder and CEO of Star Diamond Global, an affiliate of Diamond Tree Global. "This is what nature has given us, since the beginning of time, to appreciate, to enjoy, to embrace."

Star Diamond Global presents Linda Proctor at the Sheraton Parkway Hotel, Richmond Hill.

WHO: Linda Proctor, author, business woman, wife of Bob Proctor of The Secret

WHAT: Linda talks about her success, the advice she received from her husband, Bob Proctor, and introduces Diamond Tree Global.

WHERE: Sheraton Parkway Hotel (600 Highway 7 East, Richmond Hill - corner of Highway 7 and Leslie)

WHEN: October 30, 2007 (7:30 PM - 10 PM)

WHY: Ground floor business opportunities

Those who register in advance will receive a free CD "Vision Board" - a personal pictorial an individual creates containing all of the things they desire. Its power, as discussed in The Secret, can be a critical tool in getting the Law of Attraction working for individuals. Early registrations can be emailed to Jae Rang, Star Diamond Global reserve@stardiamondglobal.com.

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For more information, please contact

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF STAR DIAMOND GLOBAL
Primary Phone: 905-901-9218
E-mail: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

A party that is sure to be shaken and stirred

2007-10-15T19:24:00.000-05:00

MEDIA ADVISORY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 16, 2007

Slava Ultra Premium Vodka serves the perfect martini and more to Canada’s best at Gemini Awards Party

October 16, 2007, REGINA – Following the Gemini Awards, Slava Ultra Premium Vodka will serve martinis to the best of Canada’s TV programming; only with a twist. The drink which was once synonymous with prestige, class and the golden age of Hollywood will make a splash with a new era of stars. Special Slava martinis have been created and named in the spirit of the Gemini Awards, such as the ‘Nominini’ which tastes just like a cinnamon heart.

Buzzing around this event will be actors, actresses and behind the scenes staff that help produce some of Canada’s leading shows, such as Corner Gas and Little Mosque on the Prairie.

"[This] is a big thing for our production community…and everyone who works so hard on our shows - to finally be able to participate in the Geminis and celebrate the work they do,” says Susanne Bell, CEO of SaskFilm.

“Slava makes the perfect martini and the perfect way to celebrate this event,” says John Vellinga, president of Multiculture Marketing, which owns the Slava brand. “With its superb flavour and natural sweetness, you don’t have to add anything – just drop in an olive or a twist and now you’ve got yourself a party.”

Those who have tried Slava Ultra Premium Vodka describe the taste as clean and exceptionally smooth. The reason – it’s four times distilled and 12 times filtered and only the finest ingredients are used.

John Vellinga, president of Multiculture Marketing and his staff will be on hand to personally serve everyone the ultimate martini or a colder-than-ice frozen shot of Slava; a delightful surprise.

WHEN: Sunday, October 28, 2007

WHERE: SaskFilm Soundstage (1831 College Avenue, Regina, Saskatchewan)

TIME: 9:00PM to 1:00AM (immediately after the awards celebration and banquet)

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ABOUT MULTICULTURE MARKETING

Multiculture Marketing (MCM) is a developer and marketer of private label and niche products. The Oakville, Ontario-based company has developed and launched two of its own vodka trademarks in four provinces, including Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Alberta and Ontario. MCM products include: Slavutich Beer, Krimsekt Sparkling Wines, Lvivske Beer, Slava Ultra Premium Vodka and Zirkova Premium Imported Vodka.

To schedule an interview or seek further information please contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF MULTICULTURE MARKETING/SLAVA VODKA
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Even a garage needs a lift

2007-10-15T19:19:00.000-05:00

MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 16, 2007

Garage Living introduces the car lift designed for the home garage

October 16, 2007, TORONTO – Just as facelifts are meant to rejuvenate the face and give it a more youthful look, a garage lift, in a practical sort of way, rejuvenates and maximizes the space in a garage. The result, a more attractive, desirable and more valuable garage.

Just when you think you’ve exhausted every possible way to maximize the storage space in your garage, along comes the garage car lift designed especially for the home garage.

“It is fun seeing the look on people’s faces when they first see their hobby car, or recreational vehicle securely stored out of the way and still have room to park their family vehicle,” says Parag Shah, President of Garage Living, Canada’s leading garage specialists. “And with a set of four casters, the lift can be moved to anywhere in the garage, even with a car on it.”

The 4-Post, 7000 lb car lift can be used for vehicle service or storage. With its three drip trays, one jack tray, diamond plated runways, and four wheel stops, it’s the do-it-yourself mechanics dream. It’s perfect for working on vehicles. No more aching back and knees, just easy access to the undercarriage of a car.

Another neat aspect of the Garage Living Car Lift is the quality of its construction. This motorized lift is so sturdy that it doesn’t need to be anchored to the floor, and should it be necessary to relocate, it’s easy to pack up and take along.

The lift is great for any off-season storage of hobby cars, and with a lifting height of six feet, another car can fit beneath the lift. Other models are also available which can hold SUVs and trucks if needed. Or if it’s just extra storage space that’s needed during non-use times, Garage Living has designed storage units that fit the lift, perfectly.

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For further information or arrange an interview contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF GARAGE LIVING
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218

Thanksgiving hope for 1000 Toronto families

2007-10-04T09:14:00.000-05:00

MEDIA ADVISORY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 4, 2007

The Prayer Palace gives away 1000 turkeys

Toronto, Ontario, MEDIA ADVISORY, October/4/2007/ PR Direct/ - The Prayer Palace, a multicultural, nondenominational church located in the heart of North York, is giving away turkeys and 5lb. bags of rice to approximately 1000 needy families.

For the past 7 years The Prayer Palace has been distributing food to over 1,150 families in the community and for over 3 years, the Pastors have served a Thanksgiving meal to seniors and those who are alone and without families.

"Both the physical needs and spiritual needs of an individual are important to us and this is just some of the ways that Prayer Palace addresses the physical needs of those in the community," says Pastor Tom Melnichuk, Associate Pastor. "This year, we wanted to do more to show how much we care about our great city."

Following the Sunday morning service, turkeys will be distributed in the Prayer Palace parking lot.

WHEN: Sunday October 7, 2007

WHERE: The Prayer Palace
1111 Arrow Rd., Toronto, ON

TIME: Following the Sunday 10:30 am service

The Prayer Palace's vision is to make a positive impact upon the Greater Toronto Area, and ultimately this nation, by creating a city-wide family centre in which all are welcome - a place where all individuals and families can grow and flourish in faith and discover God's plan for their lives.

Known throughout Canada and the USA as a model for racial harmony and diversity, The Prayer Palace has become a congregation with members representing over 50 different nationalities worldwide.

Their work has not gone without notice. Mayor David Miller on the occasion of Pastor Paul Melnichuk's 70th birthday said "Together with Kathy, your sons…and the congregation of the Prayer Palace, you have helped make a difference in many lives and our City a better place."

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For further information contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF THE PRAYER PALACE
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Charitable giving just got ‘tasty’

2007-10-04T09:04:00.000-05:00

MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 4, 2007

SupperWorks offers a unique fundraising alternative

October 4, 2007, OAKVILLE - The need for charitable assistance is on the rise and, at the same time, charitable organizations are finding more and more competition for donor dollars. Creative fundraising is one of the few remaining alternatives.

Statistics Canada reports that donations were up 13.8 per cent in 2005 from 2004, and a median average of $240 per donor. Although there has been an increase in the actual dollars donated, the increase in the number of donors is less than 1 per cent. These statistics show that it's the same people doing the giving; they're just giving a little bit more each year.

If charitable organizations are to be successful in raising funds, it is important that they remain accountable and be wise in their choosing of a fundraiser. While events such as a polar bear dip are arduous at best, and chocolate bars and chocolate covered almonds seem to be reserved for sports teams and public schools, other worthwhile community causes seem to get lost in a moray of appeals with little or no new ideas to assist them in raising their much needed funds.

SupperWorks, Canada's premiere meal preparation franchise, recognizing that there are many worthwhile community activities and organizations which need financial support, introduced their own fundraising opportunity.

"We want to do our part in showing financial support for our community, so when groups come to SupperWorks to help them fundraise we donate four per cent of the purchase price of their meals to the charity of their choice," says Joni Lien, Co-founder of SupperWorks. "We encourage the organization members to participate with us by placing a SupperWorks order knowing that together, we will be supporting worthwhile causes."

"It's really simple -- we do all the prep, all the clean up and prepare all the menus," says Chris Wood, Co-founder of SupperWorks. "And in less than 2 hours an organization's member will have prepared 12 full-sized meals with each serving 4-6 people."

Getting involved in the SupperWorks plan doesn't cost the participant anything more than the cost of the meals.

"When you think about it, what a great way to give. (Testimonial) " Money I would've spent on fast food or store bought frozen dinners anyway, I spend at SupperWorks and for doing so, I get to support one of my favourite charities. What could be better?"

"SupperWorks is excited and honoured to join community members in supporting their favourite charitable cause," says Chris. As there are so many worthwhile causes, we can't just support one to the exclusion of all others. As with our meals, it's best to give our customers the choice."

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For further information contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF SUPPERWORKS
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Virtual Golf—Think IMAX 3D

2007-09-20T14:57:00.000-05:00

MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 20, 2007

Parmasters Golf Centers use state-of-the-art golf simulators

September 20, 2007, TORONTO - Commercial and air force pilots have been using flight simulators for years. Considering the advances in technology over the last 20 years, it isn’t difficult to imagine how golf simulators of today can make a round of virtual golf feel realistic.

Gone are the days of a projector casting boring 2D images up against the back of a screen – think IMAX 3D. Think virtual reality.

Parmasters Golf Centers have gone hi-tech, using AboutGolf’s state of the art technology. Their simulated courses use graphics with greater resolution and detail that are so real that clouds move, flags blow the direction and intensity of the wind, and even tee signs can be read.

AboutGolf's Sim Sensor applies patented 3D phased-array microwave technology that operates at 7,000 cycles per second, providing an amazingly accurate view of the ball’s flight and the club head. Collisions with tree trunks, leaves, and branches are just as in real life. A player can even hit a ball into the cup-holder of a golf cart.

Hi-tech simulators offer a number of advantages: avid golfers can play year round, night or day and in any kind of weather conditions. Golfers can now play some of the finest golf courses in the world (Pebble Beach, Spy Glass Hill, Teeth of the Dog, and any number of Nicklaus Design’s courses) without ever leaving their city.

Parmasters is America’s leading indoor golf training centre and is currently establishing itself in the Canadian market. Canada’s first Parmasters centre opens in early 2008 and will be followed by another 12 golf training centers and 20 Links Golf Cafes in the spring. Over 30 franchises have already been awarded in Canada, leaving only opportunities in Ontario, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Quebec, to be sold. Visit www.parmasters.com for franchising opportunities and details.

“In order to accurately replicate the game of golf indoors there must be intricate technology and focused technologists with a thirst for continual improvement,” says Andre Ferris, Canadian Regional Franchisor of Parmasters Golf Training Centers. “Parmasters exclusive golf simulator, AboutGolf, is the collaboration of two influential golf technology companies who are re-writing the standards for indoor golf on a daily basis.”

One of the features of the simulators is the data tracing capabilities. DataTrac enables users to log in at the beginning of each simulator session and have all their activity tracked and ported to their personal web site. Users can visit their site to analyze stats, review practice data, get instructional tips based on their practice sessions, and replay their best shots.

“Parmasters Golf Centers make learning and practicing golf fun,” says Stephen Southern, President, Parmasters Southern Ontario, “Using the DataTrac system, members can even compete with other members of other Parmasters’ centres. There are even longest ball and closest to the pin competitions. Innovation like this makes owning a Parmasters franchise so exciting.”

A Parmasters Golf Training Center is “the ultimate golf training and practice facility” offering a climate-controlled, indoor golfers haven. It is a golf training center designed to help improve a golfer’s game.

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For further information contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
Public Relations Specialists
ON BEHALF OF PARMASTERS CANADA
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca
Web: www.stratcommsolutions.ca

Can medication cure all ills?

2007-09-20T14:43:00.000-05:00

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September 20, 2007

Maybe not – Dr. Chesnie Cooper focuses on remediation

September 20, 2007, TORONTO - Attention Deficit Disorder, or as it's currently known, Attention Deficit/Hyperactive Disorder, is a medical condition affecting approximately three to five per cent of the population according to the National Institute for Mental Health (NIMH).

However, many more children are being medically treated for AD/HD than this statistic implies.

Children who have been in remedial programs for years.
Those who have had occupational therapy recommended to them.
Kids who have been told that they have ADHD, and been put on medication, only to discover that there's little or no improvement.

Occupational or speech and language therapy isn't yielding the necessary results.
The prescribed medication doesn't help, the child is angry and there are behavioural problems at home around the issue of homework.

These children have been misdiagnosed.

Due to the similar symptoms, it is not uncommon for Central Auditory Processing Disorder/Deficit (CAPD) to be diagnosed as ADHD, behavioural difficulties, language and communication disorders, autism, dyslexia and learning disabilities.

The term Central Auditory Processing Disorder/Deficit or just Auditory Processing Disorder/Deficit is new to many people. Even for those parents, educators and professionals who are aware of this term, it is difficult to understand exactly what it is, how significant it can be, what the behavioural symptoms are and how it affects individuals academically, socially and in work situations.

In defining CAPD, The American Speech Language Hearing Association (ASHA) 2005 includes the word "central" because part of the definition includes difficulties within the central nervous system.

The definition refers to difficulties in the processing of auditory information in the central nervous system (CNS) as demonstrated by poor performance in one or more of the following skills: sound localization and lateralization, auditory discrimination, and auditory pattern recognition.

"If an incorrect diagnosis occurs, the individual may either receive medication aimed at a medical issue, or receive therapy for behavioural issues, neither of which addresses the basic underlying auditory problem," says Dr. Deborah Cooper, Psychologist and Director of The Chesnie Cooper Educational Centre. "CAPD is not a medical problem. There is no pill that will cure it. CAPD can cause frustration, both with the individual and within the family, but family and behavioural therapy will not cure it either. Only appropriate remediation will."

Upon hearing the label CAPD, many parents are puzzled, since "auditory" represents hearing. Most people assume the term "auditory" deals only with the process of accurately detecting the presence of sound and its physical attributes.

However, it is possible for a person's hearing to test normal, and still have difficulty understanding conversations when background noise is present or when the individual they're speaking to is talking too fast.

This proves that hearing of speech goes well beyond the ear. The situation mentioned above can be explained as a breakdown in the translation system from the ear to the brain.

Once correctly identified with CAPD, the results are often similar to that of Johnny's, a student of The Chesnie Cooper Educational Center who was at the bottom three per cent of reading capability, and after a year and a half, can read anything he wants. "Thank you, Mommy, 'cause now I'm just like all the other kids. And I can read."

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For further information contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
Public Relations Specialists
ON BEHALF OF DR. DEBORAH COOPER
& THE CHESNIE COOPER EDUCATIONAL CENTRE
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca
Web: www.stratcommsolutions.ca

Golf swing technology (system) is guaranteed to reduce a golfer’s score

2007-09-20T14:37:00.000-05:00

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September 14, 2007

Parmasters’ training systems guarantee twenty-five per cent handicap reduction

September 14, 2007, TORONTO - Whether you're a casual golfer or a fanatic there is at least one common thread. Every golfer strives for a lower score each time out. Even new golfers want to improve, they want to learn and they want to look good on the fairway. Parmasters Golf Training Centers' training system makes sure this happens and guarantees a 25 per cent reduction in handicap.

Improving their game is what keeps a golfer from discouragement and quitting the game, according to a National Golf Foundation (NGF) study. With an average of 2 million new golfers entering the sport each year, making golf one of the most explosive sporting industries, Parmasters Golf Training Centers recognizes the importance of teaching sound fundamentals that will help a golfer improve each time out.

Parmasters believes they can help a golfer become better at hitting the ball straight and getting consistent and predictable results. In fact they guarantee it! Rather than teach the complicated basic physics of the golf swing, certified golf coaches develop each part of the swing from impact backwards. "The traditional golf swing is complex and extremely difficult to master, unless of course you are practicing five hours per day," says Scott Hazeldine, Master Player, Master Teacher and holder of 22 course records. "The good news is; there is a better way. It's the simplest and most accurate way to hit a golf ball. We call it "Straight Line Golf," This golf swing is so easy that everybody can learn to do it. Parmasters claim it can be learned in just eight hours using their Accelerated Learning Techniques?. This affordable, non-intimidating alternative to the traditional, typically expensive teaching method is a big hit with the golfing community.

A Parmasters Golf Training Center is typically 12,000 to 15,000 square-feet and is "the ultimate golf training and practice facility" offering a climate-controlled, indoor golfers haven. Facilities can include short game areas, a retail shop for equipment and golf apparel; a golf fitness area that focuses on strength, endurance, flexibility, and balance; and a training and events room that can be rented for corporate functions or family birthday parties. In addition there's the on-site Links Golf Café, offering gourmet organic coffee and clubhouse fare, as well as free wireless Internet.

Members enjoy specialized driving bays, realistic professionally designed rolling putting greens, a golf fitness center, state of the art golf simulators featuring world-class courses, sand traps and much more.

A 2006 Ipsos Reid poll indicated that Canadians spent a total of $11.23 billion in 2005 on green fees, membership, equipment and apparel and also indicated that 5.95 million Canadians participated in the sport in 2005, representing a 21.6 per cent increase from 2001.

Parmasters is evidence of this growing trend as it is set to open Canada's first Parmasters Golf Training Center early 2008, and another 12 golf training centers and 20 Links Golf Cafes beginning in the spring. Already in Canada, over 30 franchises have been awarded, leaving only opportunities in Ontario, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Quebec, yet to be sold. Further information on franchising opportunities can be found at www.parmasaters.com.

"I'm excited and the timing couldn't be better for opening a Parmasters Golf Center," says Stephen Southern, President, Parmasters Southern Ontario. "And with the support provided by Andre Ferris, the Canadian Regional Franchisor of Parmasters Golf Training Centers, we hope to pre-sell a target 750 Charter Memberships prior to opening." Charter memberships provide members with preferred access to the unparalleled indoor practice facilities and centre amenities.

Each full-size training center when in full operation is expected to average 2,000 members. The Halifax site sold 617 memberships before construction had even commenced.

Parmasters, out of 65,000 franchisees, earned its second consecutive ranking in the Top 50 Franchises in North America from Franchise Business Review. "This is further evidence of their desire to not just be the number one golf center, but to be the number one franchise," says Andre Ferris, Canadian Regional Franchisor for Parmasters.

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Chilled means served straight from the freezer – not shaken over ice

2007-09-20T14:06:00.000-05:00

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 11, 2007

Slava Ultra Premium Vodka is designed to easily fit any freezer

September 11, 2007, OAKVILLE - There's just as much to being a vodka connoisseur as there is to being a wine connoisseur.

"One shot and you appreciate the smoothness, with only a slight tingle at the back of your throat reminding you are indeed consuming alcohol at 40% alc./vol," says Antoine Tedesco of Sceneandheard.ca when writing about Slava Ultra Premium Vodka. "This ultra premium vodka is as good as some of the more expensive varieties, and leaps and bounds better than the cheaper, hip vodkas of magazine fame."

At about $30 per bottle, Slava is only $5 more than ordinary vodka, but significantly less than other ultra-premium vodkas.

So what's Slava's secret?

"It's positively chilling," jokes John Vellinga, president of Multiculture Marketing - Canadian distributor of Slava Ultra Premium Vodka. "It's a balance of what's in the bottle, the bottle itself, and serving it as cold as you possibly can."

Slava is distilled at the Zlatogor Distillery, one of the oldest distilleries in Ukraine, founded in 1896. Zlatogor is known for the purity of its water, using natural ingredients and traditional methods. In other words, they've been known for their commitment to quality since 1896.

"We developed and taste-tested 25 formulations of Slava with the experts at Zlatogor. On the 23rd version, we hit the perfect recipe." says John Vellinga.

Those who have tried Slava Ultra Premium Vodka describe the taste as clean and exceptionally smooth. The reason - it's four times distilled and 12 times filtered and only the finest ingredients are used.

"Distilling four times increases the quality and purity of the vodka, without having a negative impact on the taste," says Vellinga. "Four times distilled is ideal for fine vodka: less distillation reduces the purity, while more distillations reduce the character and taste."

Vellinga goes on to explain that true vodka aficionados know that the best way to bring out the smooth, crisp taste of premium vodkas, like Slava, is to serve them ice cold. That's straight out of the freezer - not shaken over ice. Ice dilutes the vodka and makes it taste like water.

To that end, the people at Slava have designed a triangular bottle that sits nicely in any freezer. Whether on its side or standing upright, it won't roll out when the freezer door is opened.

"It's slick art deco label, "freezer-friendly" triangular shaped bottle (it will not roll around in your freezer) and exceptional value will draw in the crowds," concludes Antoine Tedesco.

ABOUT MULTICULTURE MARKETING

Multiculture Marketing (MCM) is a developer and marketer of private label and niche products. The Oakville, Ontario-based company has developed and launched two of its own vodka trademarks in four provinces, including the LCBO in Ontario. MCM products include: Slavutich Beer, Krimsekt Sparkling Wines, Lvivske Beer, Slava Ultra Premium Vodka and Zirkova Premium Imported Vodka.

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For further information contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
Public Relations Specialists
ON BEHALF OF MULTICULTURE MARKETING
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca
Web: www.stratcommsolutions.ca
Get communication tips and insight from www.stratcommsolutions.blogspot.com

Creating your über garage

2007-08-16T13:19:00.000-05:00

http://www.joe-ks.com/archives_nov2004/Travolta_House.htm

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 16, 2007

Garage Living has the answers...

August 16, 2007, VAUGHAN -- He reportedly parks the jet in his driveway at his home in Ocala, Florida, known as Jumbolair; anyone you know?

Now that’s a garage!

It may be a long time before the average home owner needs a garage this size, however according to the National Association of Home Builders, the trend is towards building larger garages. In 2006, 15 per cent of all new homes built have 3 car garages, whereas in 1992 it was just 6 per cent.

What is amazing today is how people are using their garage. It’s no longer merely an oversized storage closet where seldom used household and recreational items accumulate. It’s different today.

While it’s unlikely you’ll need it for your Boeing 707 as John Travolta does, there are a multitude of ideas on how your garage can be a real extension of your home.

It can be a frustrating experience when you’ve planned a barbeque party and because of the rain you’ve had to bring it inside. Could you imagine if your garage being so spotless and organized that it could easily be turned into a party room at the drop of a hat? Bright lighting through the windows, reflecting off epoxy flooring that’s free of clutter because of the slat wall organization system, a garage fridge to keep the refreshments cool and close, and much more. It’s as simple as opening the garage doors, bringing the lawn chairs and tables inside and your barbeque party continues without a hitch.

A garage’s primary purpose continues to be storing vehicles, but the idea that it has to look or just merely function as a garage is passé. It can be a multi car showroom, a hobbyist paradise, a multi-functional room, or an auto enthusiast’s dream garage. Its potential is only limited by your imagination.

“Our Garage Experts are well versed in all the options, materials, and finishes available. They’re able to create a fully customized plan of your garage solution,” says Parag Shah President of Garage Living, Canada’s leading garage specialists. “Our detailed drawings give homeowners an excellent vision of what their garage can become.”

Organizations such as Garage Living, have specialists who assist you in designing your ultimate garage. They do all the work; all you have to do is dream.

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For further information contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF GARAGE LIVING
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Learning disabilities affect up to 20 per cent of North American population

2007-08-16T13:03:00.000-05:00

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 16, 2007

Effective treatment available when LD properly identified

August 16, 2007, TORONTO – Learning Disabilities (LDs) are extremely common. Over 15 per cent of the Canadian population have “low literacy skills” according to a report by ABC Canada Literacy 2005. The International Dyslexia Association puts the number at 15-20 per cent. That means in a class of 30 students, 3 to 5 children will have an LD and need special education to overcome it.

In layman’s terms, an LD is anything that causes a student to fail to learn for no apparent reason, this according to DSM-IV-TR, the Bible of mental health diagnosis. A learning disorder does not mean that someone is lacking intelligence. In fact, a person with an LD might earn an “A” in math but “F” in reading, or vice versa.

“This point needs so much emphasis because virtually all people with an LD secretly think they are not intelligent. Almost universally, they believe they are ‘stupid,’” says Dr. Deborah Cooper, psychologist, and director of The Chesnie Cooper Educational Centre*. “Disabilities are neither predictable nor preventable — they are not the result of bad parenting, laziness, lack of will power, or lack of foresight. They are not anyone’s fault.”

The key to successful treatment of LDs is correct diagnosis. However, due to similar symptoms, CAPD (Central Auditory Processing Deficit) can be misdiagnosed as ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder). This is an important distinction as one requires medication, the other does not.

Christine Rick recalls that her son was in Senior Kindergarten when the school observed he was having experiencing high levels of frustration; it was suggested he needed occupational therapy. A learning disability was not suspected because his grades were good. But in grade 2 he was experiencing even higher levels of frustration and was depressed. The Pediatrician referred him to a psychologist who, after an educational assessment, determined he had ADHD. However, over the next year and a half, his depression heightened and the problem worsened.

“My son [now] is 9 years old and in grade 4…This school year, things came to a head. My son withdrew into himself. He wanted to be alone. He hated school and wanted to be home schooled. He wished he was dead,” reports Christine. “I was distraught and unsure what to do next.”

Mrs. Rick’s pediatrician referred them to Dr. Chesnie Cooper, a psychologist renowned for her research and specialization in helping people with CAPD and other learning disabilities, Her awareness of the similarity of the symptoms of CAPD and ADHD is critical in the depth of her testing as well as her remedial follow through.

“After only 2 visits and a conference call with Dr. Chesnie Cooper, significant changes began to take place in Edward’s life,” says Mrs. Rick. “My son now sleeps through the night; he smiles and laughs. He tells jokes and loves to be around people; he loves school again; and he is feeling more confident about himself.”

“Someone with an LD, by definition, has “at least” average intelligence. As soon as a diagnosis has identified what is holding someone back, the way opens to effective treatment,” says Dr. Cooper. “Such is the case with Edward Rick and many others like him.”

* A division of The Chesnie Cooper Psychology Professional Corp.

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To schedule an interview contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF DR. DEBORAH COOPER
& THE CHESNIE COOPER EDUCATIONAL CENTRE
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Krinos 2007 Taste of the Danforth a Smash Hit

2007-08-13T11:05:00.000-05:00

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 13, 2007

Record breaking attendance at this year's event

August 13, 2007, TORONTO -- Despite a couple of hours of rain on Sunday afternoon, The Krinos Taste of the Danforth experienced record crowds. In 2006 the festival drew approx 1.2 to 1.3 million people. This year the festival drew over 1.4 million people.

Local Danforth businesses were thrilled saying that this year's Friday night was more like a Saturday night and Saturday night was clearly a record breaker.

Spokesperson and programmer Howard Lichtman attributes the success to the warmth of the Danforth community and the introduction of a number of new elements including the Celebrity stage, the "Taste of Broadway," the Olympiada and the Sports zone.

For further information contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF THE KRINOS TASTE OF THE DANFORTH
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Fax: 1.866.384.7384
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Krinos Taste Of The Danforth - Discover A New "Taste"

2007-07-28T12:01:00.000-05:00

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July 28, 2007

Toronto’s favourite festival offers fun for the whole family

July 28, 2007, TORONTO – Toronto’s favourite street festival has a whole new way to celebrate the fun and flavours of Greece and summer in the city.

As last year’s Krinos Taste of the Danforth festival came to a close, a poll released by Decima showed that 90 per cent of respondents identified Taste as their favorite GTA festival event -- beating out the Toronto International Film Festival, Caribana and Pride Week from an audience perspective.

“The seed for this festival was planted 14 years ago when local businesses were looking for a way to attract attention to the community – there were only a few tables of food and some local musicians,” says Alex Alexakis, Krinos Vice President of Canadian Operations. “Now it’s the largest Greek festival outside of Greece, attracting over one million visitors from around the world.”

The GTA lays claim to more than 200,000 residents of Greek ancestry, the third largest Hellenic community outside Greece and between August 10 and 12, 2007, everyone who comes to the Danforth gets to be Greek for the day.

This year’s Krinos Taste of the Danforth has loads of new features and activities to engage and entertain the entire family:

The Celebrity Stage, presented by the Toronto Star, will include demonstrations by Citytv’s CityLine chef and celebrity restaurateur, Michael Bonacini, PLUS a performance by Kevin Brauch, the hugely popular host of the shows “Thirsty Traveler” and "Iron Chef America," where he will perform stunts such as Sabretage - slashing open a bottle of champagne with a chef’s saber -- while blindfolded.
The Celebrity Stage at the new Taste will also offer a “Taste of Broadway” – with live performances from the cast of We Will Rock You, Menopause Out Loud, Evil Dead: The Musical, Much Ado About Nothing and Second City (performing a hilarious set of improvised themes, songs and games, all based on audience suggestions). In addition, visitors will be treated to live musical performances by Frank D’Angelo & The Steelback 2-4 – and much more.
The Greek Stage will feature traditional Greek dancers (such as Troup Naditu, Levendia X and Arabesque) and musicians (such as Exodos, Parea, Galaxy and the Yianis Kapoulas Band).
The Sports Zone will include events created by each of Toronto’s professional sports teams. There is a Maple Leafs’ Slap Shot Machine, a Raptors’ interactive basketball court, a Toronto FC kicking station and soccer zone where you can actually play a game, the Argos Football Toss, Toronto Blue Jays pitching and batting cages, a Toronto Rock lacrosse shooting game (plus meet your favourite Rock players), the Toronto Marlies goal-tending skills game and lots more chances for people to test their skills and win fun prizes.
The Olympiada, presented by the Toronto Star, will include Pythagoras' Chess Challenge (a life-size chess game), a climbing wall hosted by ‘Outward Bound,’ the Medusa area with a live reptile show, Greek pottery hosted by ‘The Clay Room’ where children of all ages will have an opportunity to paint their own pottery using Greek themes, two volleyball courts (one for adults and one for children) – and much more.
The D'Angelo Pavilion will feature the fantastic feats of The Zero Gravity Circus' Amazing Aerial Acrobats.
And to cool off, visitors can bring their skates to the ‘Blades of Glory,’ an immense street-wide ice rink on the Danforth where they can enjoy the unique experience of ice skating in summer.

This year, the Greek Wine Pavilion featured at the Krinos Taste of the Danforth will be dramatically different from the past. It will be a sensual food and wine tasting garden, featuring the talent of local chefs, sommeliers and celebrities. Guests will be able to sit down, savour, learn about, and purchase the highlighted wines of Greece. They will also have the opportunity to sample some culinary classics that are exclusive to the Danforth.

The 2006 Krinos Taste of the Danforth welcomed over million people and organizers are expecting record crowds again in 2007. Full details on this year’s Krinos Taste of the Danforth can be found at www.toronto.com/TasteOfTheDanforth.

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For more information contact:

Howard Lichtman
416-402-4948
howard@lightning-group.com