Another satisfied customer youll never see again?
(PRWEB) August 27, 2004
If you have stayed at a hotel belonging to one of the major chains recently, or dined in one of their restaurants, you might well have given them your email address.
Within a few weeks you will have received an enticing email, with images stirring memories of luxurious rooms and fantastic food. In it they will offer you, their special guest, preferential rates if you choose to visit them again soon. And you probably will, with the 2 for 1 offer they propose or free bottle of wine being hard to resist.
For many smaller operators this type of marketing, that we have all succumbed to, has been out of reach because it has been too expensive, too complicated or worse still something to do with computers and technology.
With the UK launch of Next Visitor, any business can take charge of their own marketing, build a database and, more importantly, keep their customers coming back time and time again.
Although Next Visitor is accessed online through any Internet connection, it is at pains to point out it is not a technology solution. You dont have to understand the inner workings of a phone to make a call. The technology is hidden, Stuart Johnson, MD of Next Visitor, says, Its the same with Next Visitor. Next Visitor is straightforward and step-by-step guides walk you through every stage. Weve written it specifically for the hospitality industry and it is completely jargon free. Existing subscribers were sending out emails within minutes. Its that simple to use.
Subscribers to Next Visitor receive print materials to encourage people to give their email details, a database stored securely online to which they can add their customers and up to 40 high-impact email templates that they can use to quickly and easily contact their guests with last minute offers, promotions and news.
The hospitality industry puts so much effort into making sure that their guests have a fantastic experience but fail to capitalise on the hard work they put in. For instance, you always ask a departing guest if everything was okay with their stay and, despite the fact that the guest will reply that it was great, you dont ask them back, you simply wave them goodbye! Asking for an email address means you can contact them again and again for free. That has to be good business sense as a satisfied customer is always likely to want to come back, particularly if they are offered incentives to do so.
For most Next Visitor subscribers, one extra room filled for a night, or a table in the restaurant or bar occupied has paid for a months use of the system. Next Visitor is a unique and inexpensive service for businesses that want a powerful solution that will meet their needs for years to come.
Special Launch Offer
Next Visitor is offering a 25% reduction on initial sign up costs using offer code RSerj487. For most customers this will mean that access to the full system will cost around £2 per day.
There are no long-term contracts; all that they ask is that your initial sign-up is for a minimum of 3 months to give you time to see the benefits of using the system. After 3 months you can carry on using the system or are free to cancel at any point.
You can sign up instantly online and, in the event that you are not delighted, cancel within the first 28 days without being charged.
This really is a no risk offer.
About Next Visitor.
The site at http://www.nextvisitor.com allows businesses within the hospitality sector to build an opt-in database online and email market to them using a library of up to 40 pre-prepared templates that are updated each month.
The site has been designed and built by online marketers with over 20 years combined experience working with companies including Kodak, Channel 4, Lever Faberge, Silentnight and charities ActionAid, Amnesty and the world Wildlife Fund.
The site is designed to allow anyone, regardless of experience, to benefit from the webs most powerful application, email.
Next Visitor has no long-term contract, but has a minimum sign up of 3 months to allow customers time to build up a viable database and see results from their email marketing.
We provides print material and an online database accessed through the website at http://www.nextvisitor.com, alongside email templates. We also provide advice and guidance ranging from whats the best subject line to how to stay onside of the anti-spam and data protection regulations
Contacts.
Stuart Johnson (Founder and Managing Director) 0161 737 9002, stuart.Johnson@nextvisitor.com
Russell Jones (Founder and Creative Director) 0161 737 9002 russell.jones@nextvisitor.com
A Weekend on São Miguel in the Azores: How to Spend Three Days in Paradise – by Ken Sheldon
(PRWEB) February 17, 2005
Try this: from the east coast of the U.S., a four hour flight will take you to São Miguel in the Azores, a string of green jewels sitting in the middle of the Atlantic just waiting for you to explore.
You’ll land in Ponta Delgada, the capital and largest city in São Miguel, where you could spend the entire weekend exploring the historic sites and shops, walking narrow streets past colorful chapels and open-air markets. But then you?d miss some of the most stunning scenery on the planet.
So rent a car and head west to the Sete Cidades (Seven Cities) region, where a short hike rewards you with breathtaking views of volcanic crater lakes, lush hillsides that sweep down to deep blue-green water. (The Azores were formed by volcanic action and the remnants of that activity is evident everywhere.) You’ll be traveling on a long and winding road that leads around São Miguel, where every turn rewards you with views of the ocean, rolling hills, and occasional cattle wandering down the middle of the road.
From Sete Cidades, continue on to Ribeira Grande, where you’ll find the beautiful Logoa do Fogo (Lake of Fire). Ribeira Grande is also home to two tea factories and a plantation – the only such plantation in Europe, courtesy of the island’s balmy climate. (It rarely gets below 50°F or above 80°F in the Azores.) Walk the fields, tour the factories and have a cup of tea in a stone-walled tea room.
Nearby, visit the Mulher de Capote (Cloaked Woman) liquor factory and sample liquors made from passionfruit, pineapple and other island fruits. (In the Azores the word “factory” generally means “quaint building surrounded by trees where local woman sort tea leaves or paste labels on liquor bottles.”)
Stop for lunch at the posh Terra Nostra Garden Hotel, where the restaurant’s menu features cozido, a combination of meats and vegetables cooked in the ground by volcanic steam. If you’re not a meat-eater, try the fish: it’s always astoundingly fresh, thanks to the deep waters that surround the islands.
After lunch, take a dip in the hotel’s naturally heated pool, which was created by an American expatriate during the time of the Revolution, or walk the English garden planted by a French viscount to honor his parents.
A bit further east, you’ll come to the Furnas region, where geysers hiss from the ground and mineral water (in 23 different flavors) pours from taps as you walk the cobbled streets. (Note that some of these flavors are strong; raspberry-lime isn’t one of them.) The Furnas region is famous for its natural spas where travelers have come for decades to soak away their cares.
Running through the center of Furnas is a bridge with eight arches, one of São Miguel’s many architectural wonders. The Azoreans are a religious people and innumerable churches, chapels and cathedrals adorn the island. These range from the colorful little Holy Ghost chapels to magnificent cathedrals. If you’re lucky, you’ll land on the island during one of the many Holy Ghost festivals- a kind of “old home days” and religious holiday. These events vary from island to island, but invariably involve music, dancing, and free food.
On your way back to Ponta Delgada, be sure to stop in Villa Franco do Campo, the first city founded on the island and its original capital. Here, as elsewhere on the island, you’ll find San Miguel to be rich in cultural artistry, with weavers, potters, basket-makers and other artisans plying their trade.
For dinner, you’ll have your pick of the many restaurants in Ponta Delgada. Prices are reasonable and the meals tend to be large, with generous portions of the world’s freshest grass-fed beef and ocean fish. Azoreans like to eat late and linger over the meal with wine and an after-dinner drink (or digestivo).
On the second day of your trip, plan to spend some time in the great outdoors – on-land or on the ocean. The Azores are prime spots for whale and dolphin watching, practiced in an environmentally sensitive fashion. Scuba enthusiasts will find plenty of sites to explore, or try your hand at deep-sea fishing. For landlubbers, there are self-guided hiking and biking trails that range from easy to challenging. And don?t forget to bring your camera – São Miguel is a paradise for flowering plants, trees and colorful birds.
Where to stay? On to São Miguel you can choose from elegant hotels to simple country pousadas. Accommodations are less expensive than other European destinations and a hearty breakfast is almost always included. Although the Azoreans speak Portuguese, you can always find someone who speaks English, and locals are more than happy to help you. And don’t worry about wandering into the bad part of town. On São Miguel, there are no bad parts. You’ll feel completely safe no matter where you go.
By the end of the weekend, you’ll feel at home in São Miguel. Of course, São Miguel is one of only nine islands in the Azores, each with their own unique flavor and charm. You’ll just have to come back another weekend.
Ken Sheldon is a singer songwriter who lives with his wife Chris in Hancock , NH.
If You Go?
The Azores, Portugal
Land Mass: 868 square miles
Population: 240,000
Population Density: 90 per square mile
Main Cities: Ponta Delgada (São Miguel), Horta (Faial), Angra do Heroísmo (Terceira).
Time: Four hours later than U.S. Eastern Standard Time
Electricity: 220/110 volts AC, 50Hz.
Currency: The Euro
Language: Portuguese
The Azores are an autonomous region of Portugal, made up of nine distinct islands in the Atlantic. The islands are São Miguel, Santa Maria, Terceira, Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico, Faial, Flores and Corvo. These volcanic islands are mountainous inland, and partially forested. The coastal areas have seacliffs, long beaches, and fishing villages. There are several hot springs and spas.
Literally located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean between Europe and North America, the Azores are on a parallel with Lisbon at latitudes of 39 43′/36 55′ N.
Island areas range between 400 square miles on São Miguel to nine square miles on Corvo. The 7,700-feet peak of the extinct volcano on Pico is the highest point in Portugal.
Air Transportation
Azores Express, a US based tour operator and SATA International, both members of the SATA Group, offer year-round direct service from Boston to the Azores. Summer service is also offered from Providence, RI. International flights from the U.S. come into São Miguel (and to Terceira in the summer). Air connections to all the other islands are operated by SATA Air Azores. It is just 4 hours to the Azores by air.
Reservations: 800-762-9995
http://www.Azores-Express.com
Azores Regional Tourism Office
http://www.drtacores.pt
Public Transportation
All islands except Corvo have bus and taxi transportation. Rental car services are also available on the eight main islands. Taxi and sightseeing services are available on the island of Corvo.
Hotel Reservations, Tours & Car Rental
The Bensaude Group is the Azores leading tourism company with eight hotels.
For reservations and information log on to http://www.bensaude.pt or email: reservas@bensaude.pt.
Hotel Reservations – http://www.maisturismo.pt. Contact ATOP (Association of Tour Operators Specialized in Portugal) – http://www.atop.org; or the Portuguese Trade and Tourism Office.
Biking and Hiking Packages
Easy Rider Tours of Newburyport, MA, offers week-long guided biking and walking vacations on São Miguel Island. Participants follow coastal roads with expansive ocean views and explore interior routes through forests of Japanese cedar, big-leaf hydrangea, and wild ginger. Highlights include a spectacular view of the twin lakes of Sete Cidades, a tour of Europe’s only tea plantation, and a cozido feast, a traditional Azorean casserole cooked in a volcanic stem vent.
For more information: Easy Rider Tours, 800-488-8332 or 978-463-6955, info@easyridertours.com, http://www.easyridertours.com.
Car Rental
Ilha Verde is the local Avis affiliate. They have offices on eight of the nine islands.
Ilha Verde Rent a Car
Tel: 296 304800
Fax: 296 304892
http://www.ilhaverde.com
What to Pack
The Azores have an Atlantic climate – mild but given to sudden changes. Plan to bring lightweight clothing, with one or two sweaters for those cool evenings. Raincoats are a good idea from October to April when rainfall is more frequent.
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Bucks County is THE Holiday Shopping Destination
BENSALEM, Pa. (PRWEB) September 4, 2005
Sick of Holiday shopping at crowded malls, with angry shoppers, and no place to park? Why not skip the rush by visiting some museum shops, nature centers, farm markets, wineries, and independently owned boutiques throughout Bucks County, Pennsylvania?
Much of the merchandise represents the history, art and landscape of the region, and purchases often directly support restoration and educational programs.
Not sure what to buy? A membership to one of many museums and nature centers or a weekend getaway package offers your friends and loved-ones the opportunity to experience Bucks County firsthand.
Museum Shops & Visitor Centers Discover the history, art and culture of Bucks County
Mercer Museum
Glass, metal, redware, stoneware and salt glaze pottery, textiles, folk toys and woven rugs are just a few of many treasures available at The Mercer Museum Shop, reflecting Henry Mercers wonderful obsession with American Industrialism. The shop features a large selection of books devoted to crafts, tools, trades, history, childrens education and home restoration, as well as the Bucks County Historical Societys Bucks County: An Illustrated History. Mercer Museum, 84 S. Pine Street, Doylestown, 215-345-0210.
James A. Michener Museum
The James A. Michener Art Museums two locations spotlight creative activities and books for children such as the lavishly illustrated Pennsylvania alphabet book K is for Keystone by Kristen Kane with illustrations by Laura Knorr. Pennsylvania Impressionism items range from a new documentary DVD to comprehensive catalogs on Robert Spencer and Edward W. Redfield. The shops also carry handcrafted silver jewelry by local designer Sherry Tinsman. The James A. Michener Art Museum, 138 S. Pine Street, Doylestown, 215-340-9800; and Union Square on Bridge Street, New Hope, 215-862-7633.
Pearl S. Buck House & Historic Site
From rice china to silk wall hangings, chopsticks to porcelain dolls, the best in Asian-inspired gifts are available at the Pearl S. Buck House & Historic Site. In addition to the many items that represent the authors years in China, the gift shop also carries a wide selection of Pearl S. Bucks award-winning novels. Pearl S. Buck House & Historic Site, 520 Dublin Road, Perkasie, 215-249-0100.
Washington Crossing Historic Park
Where better to purchase books on the history of our nation than along the banks of the Delaware River where General George Washington led his troops to victoriously change the course of the American Revolution on Christmas Day in 1776? The Visitor Center at Washington Crossing Historic Park also sells a variety of redware pottery, old-fashioned toys and prints by Bucks County artists. Washington Crossing Historic Park, 1112 River Road, Washington Crossing, 215-493-4076.
National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa
The Visitor Center at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa, a Polish spiritual and pilgrimage center, offers a wide selection of Catholic-themed gifts, scholarly and devotional books, rosaries and hard-to-find products from Poland. The National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa, 654 Ferry Road, Doylestown, 215-345-0600.
Bucks County Visitor Center
The Bucks County Visitor Centers gift shop features items only available in Bucks County including clothing, art work, cook books, note cards, mugs, preserves and food items from local farm markets, bicycling and walking guides and more. Gift baskets in several price ranges are also made to order. The Bucks County Visitor Center, 3207 Street Road, Bensalem, 1-800-836-BUCKS.
Nature Center Shops A touch of the outdoors at any time of year
Bowmans Hill Wildflower Preserve
The Twinleaf Shop at Bowmans Hill Wildflower Preserve features nature-themed books for adults and children on subjects ranging from flower identification to gardening with native plants. Choose from a selection of colorful T-shirts with wildflower and other nature designs, as well as tailored polo shirts. Delight kids with a ladybug or a glow-in-the-dark firefly T-shirt packaged in a reusable, bug-catching jar. A book entitled Natural Bucks County highlights places to explore in the area. Bowmans Hill Wildflower Preserve, 1635 River Road, New Hope, 215-862-2924.
Peace Valley Nature Center
Warm up by the wood stove at The Sunflower Shop at Peace Valley Nature Center and check out the singing stuffed animal song birds, earrings made from recycled materials and Salt Marsh Pottery, featuring designs created by imprinting the pieces with wildflowers. Peace Valley Nature Center, 170 Chapman Road, New Britain, 215-757-0571.
Silver Lake Nature Center
The Barnswallow Gift Shop at Silver Lake Nature Center carries unusual gifts at incredible prices most items cost under $ 5! Give your budding scientist a kit to make his or her own volcano, or purchase the Pet Tornado, a cylinder that when shaken forms a mini-tornado that you can hold in the palm of your hand. A book of pop-out wild animal masks is also very popular for children of many ages. Silver Lake Nature Center, 1306 Bath Road, Bristol, 215-785-1177.
Wineries & Farm Markets A true taste of Bucks County
Bucks County Wine Trail
Bucks County is privileged to contain more wineries than any other county in Pennsylvania. Combined, the eight wineries encompass hundreds of acres of vineyards through which visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll and beautiful views. All of the vineyards are open year round for visitors to purchase or taste a sip or two (or three!). Gift certificates for educational barrel tastings and tours are available, and many vineyards produce holiday spice wines. Call 1-800-836-BUCKS and ask for a Fruits of Our Labor brochure or visit http://www.buckscountywinetrail.com for hours and directions.
Farm Markets
Maximucks Farm Market
Purchase pumpkins, mums, Christmas trees, baked goods and preserves at one of the many farm markets open year round throughout the back roads and main drags of Bucks County. Maximucks Farm Market 5793 Long Lane Road, Doylestown, 215-297-9894, sells homegrown birdseed plus hormone free bottled milk and frozen beef.
Shady Brook Farm
This farm market boasts a unique gift shop, featuring Byers Choice Carolers, and Bucks Countys own Rose Bank Winery kiosk. Visitors will also find a variety of top quality produce, fresh dairy, sweet baked goods, and gourmet specialty foods.
Shady Brook Farm 931 Stony Hill Road, Yardley, 215-968-1670, hosts annual light shows and family festivals.
Rices Market
Vendors come from all around to sell at this 30-acre outdoor market. Shoppers can find all types of items: Antiques, collectibles, fresh fruit & vegetables, Amish meats and baked goods, clothing, and toys. A Tuesday and Saturday morning tradition since 1860, Rices Sale and Country Market, 6326 Greenhill Road, New Hope, 215-297-5993, features new and used items, antiques, produce, Amish meats and baked goods.
Peace Valley Lavender Farm
For one-of-a-kind gifts for the home, bath, body and garden visit the Peace Valley Lavender Farm. From lavender shea butter to dried decorative arrangements, all items are made from homegrown lavender and pure lavender essential oil. Lavender eye pillows, lavender candles, lavender honey, lavender wreaths and more. Gift baskets and packages are available. Peace Valley Lavender Farm, 802 New Galena Road, Doylestown, 215-249-8462.
Independent Merchants Shopping villages and scenic river towns
Peddlers Village
For distinctive holiday gifts, visit the 75 specialty shops in Peddlers Village, a charming 18th-century-style shopping village set on 42 acres of landscaped gardens and brick walkways. Collectibles, fashion apparel, toys and hobbies, home furnishings and crafts are featured throughout the village. Santa will switch-on the outdoor lights display at the Grand Illumination in November, to kick off the holiday season. Peddlers Village, Routes 202 & 263, Lahaska, 215-794-4000.
Byers Choice
A special treat for those who love the Christmas season is a trip to Byers Choice, home to the world-famous Carolers ® figurines. Watch artisans handcrafting figurines from the observation deck and then shop in the Gift Emporium. Byers Choice, 4355 County Line Road, Chalfont, 215-822-6700.
New Hope
Situated on the banks of the Delaware River and peppered with romantic bed & breakfasts, elegant art galleries, antique shops and over 30 fine restaurants, the artist colony of New Hope is shoppers dream. The avid shoppers first stop should be Union Square, 130,000 square feet of restored and new brick buildings featuring boutique shops and a bistro-style restaurant. Union Square, 328 South Main Street, New Hope, 215-862-1014. Namesake Studio is a must for Holiday shoppers, specializing in family name histories, family shields and Heraldic gifts. The store carries artwork from local artists. Namesake also has a great line of trendy jewelry. Namesake Studio, 18 W Mechanic Street, New Hope, 215-862-7000.
Outlet Shopping Bargain hunting in Bucks County
Penns Purchase
From fashion to food, fragrances to furniture, shoes to stereos, the Penns Purchase Factory Outlet Stores, Route 202, Lahaska, 215-794-0300, offer shoppers 40 of the best names in outlet shopping, directly across the street from Peddlers Village.
Franklin Mills
Featuring the best names in manufacturers and retail outlets including OFF 5th Saks Fifth Avenue, Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store and Last Call Neiman Marcus. Franklin Mills mall is only Minutes from Bucks County, 1455 Franklin Mills Circle, Philadelphia, 215-632-1500. The mall houses over 200 outlet stores, two food courts and eight restaurants.
Bucks County Getaway Package The perfect holiday gift
Take advantage of the incredible getaway packages offered exclusively through the Bucks County Conference & Visitors Bureau. Check out the Girls Getaway Package currently offered, and enjoy a Girls Getaway in Bucks County. Of course, Bucks County has more to offer than shopping; relaxing spa treatments, museums and cultural venues, deluxe accommodations, and interesting historic sites are just part of what makes Bucks County a top destination for this Holiday season. Visit http://www.ExperienceBucksCounty.com for information on additional discounts in Bucks County, such as the Shoppers Package offered at Hampton Inn Philadelphia Northeast in Bensalem or the Relaxing Tranquility of HollyHedge Estate Bed & Breakfast, an estate that includes: 20 tranquil acres, a manor house, 15 guest rooms, a fieldstone reception bar, and English gardens.
Shoppers are encouraged to call their destinations beforehand for hours of operation.
Photos are available upon request.
The Bucks County Conference & Visitors Bureau, Inc (BCCVB) is the official tourist promotion agency for Bucks County. The mission of BCCVB is to increase visitation to Bucks County by effectively marketing its heritage, accommodations and attractions. For more information on BCCVB activities call 1-800-836-BUCKS, visit http://www.ExperienceBucksCounty.com or stop by the Bucks County Visitor Center located at 3207 Street Road in Bensalem (adjacent to the entrance to Philadelphia Park Racetrack). The Visitor Center is open seven days a week from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. It is easily accessible from the Pennsylvania Turnpike, Route 1 and Interstate 95.
Contact: Lauren Tosti, Public Relations Coordinator, Bucks County Conference & Visitors Bureau, Inc., 215 639-0300 x231.
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Filipina Womens Network Announces Keynote Speakers for Filipina Summit on October 21-23, 2005
SAN FRANCISCO, CA (PRWEB) September 23, 2005
The Filipina Women’s Network (FWN), a nonprofit organization for women of Philippine ancestry, announced today the keynote speakers for the third annual Filipina Summit, taking place October 21-23, 2005 at the Crowne Plaza Union Square in San Francisco, California.
Irene Natividad, President of the Global Summit of Women, an annual gathering of women leaders from around the world, and first Asian American President of the National Women’s Political Caucus, will deliver the opening keynote address, “Filipina First: Reinventing Ourselves” on Friday, October 21. Ms. Natividad will talk about how Filipina women can create a demand for their leadership abilities and talents by seizing opportunities within their organizations and by calling for a revolutionary shift on how Filipinas live and work, manage their careers, and create a competitive advantage in the workplace.
On Sunday, October 23, Freada Kapor Klein, Ph.D., Founder and Board Chair of the Level Playing Field Institute will talk about workplace equity, strategies on reinvention and ways Filipina women can fully participate in the workplace by understanding the processes and attitudes in business environments. Dr. Klein is also President of Klein Associates, a boutique organizational development and human resource consulting firm dedicated to linking employee needs with business strategy, particularly regarding issues of employee diversity. She has served as an expert witness in pivotal legal cases involving sexual harassment.
In celebration of Filipino History Month in October, FWN will announce the selection of the top three Filipina Women Who Could Be President honorees for 2005. This award is part of a larger FWN campaign Shaping the Filipina Image to build a pipeline of Filipina women leaders and to create a culture for Filipinas that they are capable and can aspire to be President, the highest and most visible position in the U. S.
Filipina nominees will be introduced on Tuesday, September 27 at the premiere party of the new television series Commander In Chief starring Geena Davies in collaboration with The White House Project (http://www.thewhitehouseproject.org/). For reservations, call 415-278-9410. The premiere will be held at a Filipino-owned business, the Zebulon Cafe and Bar (http://www.zebulonsf.com).
FWN will also publish the Filipina Resource Guide and Membership Directory in October. The guide will feature Filipina women’s accomplishments in the U.S. with an exclusive “Filipina First in the U.S.” section including business and community resources owned or managed by Filipina women.
The Filipina Summit is convened in October because the earliest documented proof of Filipino presence in the Continental United States was in October 1587 in Morro Bay, California.
This year, FWN is honored to have experienced and influential members of the Filipina community share their experiences and knowledge with summit attendees.
Twenty educational sessions are organized into four learning tracks, allowing participants to apply their professional development to specific needs and interests.
The full program can be found online at the FWN website at http://www.ffwn.org/FilipinaSummit2005.htm
Four Filipina Summit Educational Tracks and Speakers:
A. “Breaking the Glass Ceiling”: (http://www.ffwn.org/BreakingtheGlassCeiling.htm)
Welcome: Opening Remarks
IntelliScanner Unveils Wine Collector 150 Personal Wine Management System
Raleigh, NC (PRWEB) October 6, 2005
IntelliScanner Corporation, makers of automatic organization devices for home and business, today introduced the Wine Collector 150, a personal handheld barcode scanner with included wine management software for Mac OS X and Windows. By simply scanning the retail bar code found on a bottle of the wine with the USB or Bluetooth wireless IntelliScanner barcode reader, the included software downloads the name, varietal, winery, country, type, color, region, and more in seconds with Internet-enabled AutoFill capabilities.
“Our new Wine Collector 150 is a revolution in automatic wine management, giving you everything you need to keep track of wine collections without having to type the details in by hand,” said Travis J. Hicks, IntelliScanner Consumer Products Division. “Packaged in its own wooden gift box, the Wine Collector product ensures you’ll never miss a peak year again, with the convenience of barcode scanning and Bluetooth wireless technology.”
The new Wine Collector 150 features:
Personal wine inventory management: use barcode technology to build a personal database of any wine collection in a home or business. Simply scan the retail barcodes on bottles of wine to add them into the local database, then scan them again to view or remove. Easily create lists, smart lists, and reports covering any collection.
Bluetooth wireless scanning: scan wine bottle barcodes with an integrated 500 barcode store-and-forward memory system, giving the scanner a virtually unlimited range. Use the USB model for plug-and-play scanning convenience at your computer’s location.
Internet AutoFill: utilizing the information found on the barcode, along with IntelliScanner’s extensive 62,000 wine database, Wine Collector fills in many of the details automatically without keyboard entry. Peer sharing means the database grows every day.
Wood Crate Packaging: Wine Collector 150 is crated in its own wine box, complete with IntelliScanner branding and excelsior wood filling.
Color Coded Maturity Tracking: With fields for vintage and peak dates, Wine Collector offers a color-coded maturity indicator that makes it easy to determine the best time to open a bottle of wine.
Visual Grid/Location Management: see the wine’s exact location on a virtual rack, or simply track the physical location or room.
Easy Internet References: use the Web menu to search for details on scanned bottles automatically
Import from Microsoft Excel or third-party programs via text files, or export as tab-delimited, CSV, or XML.
Pricing & Requirements
Wine Collector 150 is packaged in a custom manufactured wooden wine box, and includes an IntelliScanner barcode reader, Wine Collector software, a starter pack of IntelliScanner Asset Tags, and setup instructions.
The product is available in two models: the USB package is $ 199.00; the portable, Bluetooth
The International Center for Attitudinal Healing Presents the 2005 International Conference “Your Attitude is Everything”
(PRWEB) October 12, 2005
The International Center for Attitudinal Healing announces the 2005 International Conference “Your Attitude is Everything.” This extraordinary event brings together some of the most influential people of our time who will be presenting the latest research and keys to unlocking the power of our minds and our ability to shape our attitudes; shifting our experience of life, our relationships, and the world. The event will take place Friday, October 21, 3:30 PM to Sun Oct 23, 2005, 4:00 PM at the Embassy Suites Hotel, 101 McInnis Parkway in San Rafael, CA.
Special guests include Angeles Arrien, Jack Kornfield, Cheri Huber, Dan Millman, Dr. Michael Beckwith with Dr. Rickie Byars Beckwith, Gerald Jampolsky, M.D. with Diane Circincione, Ph.D, David Roche, John Francis, Wally Amos, and Karen Drucker, with entertainment, break-out sessions, and a cocktail reception with the Spanish band Ancient Future. The conference celebrates the 30th anniversary of Attitudinal Healing, and the 80th birthday of founder Gerald G. Jampolsky, M.D., recipient of the 2005 American Medical Association Pride in Profession Award.
Special guests also include local heroes from around the world working to make their communities better places to live through volunteer projects, such as a wide-scale youth project in a prison program in Mexico, a fashion design project for youth in Oakland, an award-winning magazine focusing on tools for peace in the Netherlands, training social workers in Russia, a game for children/youth to teach values of compassion, a forgiveness project in Hawaii, a program to assist street children in Argentina, and more.
“Join us, share your vision, and help us build a stronger network of awareness. You will come away inspired, and connected to a global network of people making a difference in their own lives, in their communities, and in the world. The conference will change your life,” explained Gerald Jampolsky, M.D.
A conference highlight will be the 30th Anniversary Benefit Fall Fantasia Gala held on Saturday evening from 6:00 PM 12 Midnight, at the adjoining Marin Center. The gala is rated one of the top 3 events in the Bay Area and may be attended separately. A pre-Halloween extravaganza, the gala has a global theme this year. More than 600 guests will enjoy the festive atmosphere of an international marketplace, with entertainers and party goers in costumes and masks from around the world. Shop an amazing silent auction featuring exclusive trips and wine collections, 3-course dining in the spectacular Club Rainbow Room by Sage Catering, champagne, wines and cocktails courtesy of Mumm, Meyer Family Cellars, Brutocao Cellars. Dance the night away to the powerful sounds of the 16-piece Big City Review Band. Special Gala Guests include Greg Sherwood, Master of Ceremonies, Wally Amos, Jack Kornfield, David Roche, Cheri Huber, Jan Wahl.
Conference & Gala Sponsors include Ad Valorem Solutions, Autodesk, Bank of Marin, Firemans Fund Foundation, the John Fetzer Foundation, Grgich Foundation, Harmony Events, Lufthansa, The Institute of Noetic Sciences, MBV Law, New Dimensions World Broadcasting Network, Peg Copple, Private Capital Corporation, Pinnacle Law Group, Sausalito Art Festival, Spirit Rock Meditation Center, Vivatone Hearing Systems, Wetherby Asset Management, World Business Academy.
About The International Center for Attitudinal Healing Service in Action
For 30 years, The International Center for Attitudinal Healing has worked with people facing some of the most stressful situations any of us will ever experience from children and adults with catastrophic illness, to parents who have lost children, to refugees of war and victims of violence.
The Center’s Direct Service Program provides more than 25 weekly groups for people of all ages, home and hospital visiting services, and referral and crisis support. Programs are available for those coping with life-threatening or chronic illness, aging, bereavement, youth, and general support. All of these services are offered free of charge. The Center’s crisis team responded to the bombing of Oklahoma City, and currently has a team in Beaumont, Texas to support refugees of Katrina.
The Center also provides training and consultation for schools, hospitals, health care providers, and the workplace. There are more than 130 global affiliates offering a variety of other programs and services in their communities. A non-profit organization, the Center is endorsed by the American Medical Association and supported through public and private foundations and individual memberships. For more information, visit http://www.attitudinalhealing.org
Contact:
Cheryl Geoffrion
415-331-6161 x110
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Donald Trump Told Youre Fired
Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) November 27, 2005
Laurie Moore-Moore, Founder and President of The Institute for Luxury Home Marketing, has a message for Donald Trump. “You’re fired!” said Moore-Moore. You had an opportunity to position your Palm Beach, Florida property to set a new world record for the most expensive residence sold and you blew it.”
The Palm Beach home Trump purchased to redo and resell has been priced at $ 125 million. The current world record for most expensive residence was set in 2004 when a London home sold for $ 128 million. Another London property (Uptown Court) is currently offered at just under $ 135 million.
The Trump name is associated with doing things in a big way, so raise the purchase price of your Florida mansion just 8% to $ 135 million and take a shot at the world record. Owning the worlds most expensive home would be a reason to buy for some potential prospects,” Moore-Moore says.
Cassandra Black, an Atlanta-based Realtor (Keller Williams, Atlanta Classic) specializing in marketing luxury homes, agrees with Moore-Moore’s suggestions. “It’ll be interesting to see if the home is re-priced in the near future,” says Black, who is also a member of The Institute. “Donald doesn’t strike me as the kind of guy who’d pass up an opportunity to set a world record.”
While the Trump name and the fabulous ocean view already add to the Florida mansion’s value, Moore-Moore suggests stocking the wine cellar with wines from around the world (hand picked by a renowned sommelier) and parking a Maybach or two in the garage (included in the price of the home, of course.) Have tennis celebrity Andy Roddick hand select and autograph tennis equipment for the tennis house. Finally, furnish part of the home office to duplicate the instantly recognizable “Apprentice” board room. What potential buyer could resist the lure of sitting in Trump’s chair and repeating those two now famous words.”You’re fired.” Just a bit of creativity can add value and maximize important marketing buzz about the home, Moore-Moore adds.
Moore-Moore is considered an expert when it comes to the marketing of luxury homes. She has trained over 10,000 real estate agents worldwide in luxury home marketing and her 4000-member organization, The Institute for Luxury Home Marketing, teaches agents how to better serve buyers and sellers of upscale properties and how to use creative marketing to list and sell luxury residences.
The Institute of Luxury Home Marketing was founded in 2003 and has more than 3,000 plus members. Those members who have completed special training designed to build expertise in the marketing of upper-tier properties and met performance standards earn the prestigious Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist designation. The Institute is based in Dallas and has an international membership base. Real estate professionals who are interested in training and membership will find information at http://www.LuxuryHomeMarketing.com or by phone 214-485-3000.
The Institute for Luxury Home Marketing
1409 South Lamar Suite 355, Dallas, Texas 75215 * PHONE 214.485.3000 * FAX 214.485.3310
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Rentvillas.com: Why Tuscany Is Still The Place To Be
Ventura CA (PRWEB) January 12, 2006
From E. M. Forster’s “A Room With a View” (1908) to Frances Mayes’ “Under the Tuscan Sun” (1996), Tuscany has long been highlighted as a place of unspoiled beauty. How has Tuscany managed to preserve its quaint landscape, strewn with tiny villages, ancient architecture, and overall regional flavor, despite its popularity?
“Tuscany is still the sparkling gem of history and culture that the world has celebrated for generations,” says Rentvillas.com founder Suzanne Pidduck. In the 1940′s, strict building regulations preserved the charm and old-world feel of this prized Italian region. Tuscany is much the same today as it has been for centuries an escape from modern stresses to a place where all that matters is sunshine, great wine, and wonderful food, surrounded by gently rolling hillsides, flourishing vineyards, and ancient coastlines.
What You May Not Know About Bucks County, PA
BENSALEM, Pa. (PRWEB) February 8, 2006
Did you know:
-A hidden tunnel in the 1870 Wedgwood Inn in New Hope, discovered during renovations, is believed by Historians to be part of the Underground Railroad?
-For over 25 years, Sesame Place in Langhorne has been the only theme park in the United States based on Sesame Street?
-There are 22 county parks and five state parks in Bucks County, which equals 26.1 acres of parkland for every thousand people?
-New Hope first came into being in 1700 as a 1,000-acre land grant from William Penn to Robert Heath?
-The earliest residents of Bucks County were members of the Wolf Tribe of the Lenape Indians?
-2004 Kentucky Derby and Preakness Champion, Smarty Jones, trained at Philadelphia Park Racetrack in Bensalem?
-Bucks County is home to more wineries than any other county in Pennsylvania?
-Henry Mercers home, Fonthill, was built between 1908 and 1912. The towering castle boasts 44 rooms, 18 fireplaces, and over 200 windows! The interior walls, floors, and ceilings are elaborately adorned with an incredible array of Mercers original handcrafted tiles?
-The building that is now the James A. Michener Art Museum was once the Bucks County prison?
-Odettes Restaurant in New Hope is located on a man-made island that sits between the Delaware River and the Delaware Canal?
-Beginning in November, over 500,000 lights adorn the trees and shops of Peddlers Village at the areas stateliest winter light display?
-New Hope first came into being in 1700 as a 1,000-acre land grant from William Penn to Robert Heath?
-Bucks Countys name is derived from Buckinghamshire, William Penns home in England?
-11 National Historic Landmarks can be found in Bucks?
-Oscar Hammerstein, Pearl S. Buck, Margaret Mead, James A. Michener and Henry Mercer are just a few of the famous people that have called Bucks County home?
-The oldest covered bridges in Bucks County are Uhlerstown, South Perkasie, and the Erwinna covered bridges; which were built in 1832?
Visit http://www.buckscounty.travel to learn even more about fascinating Bucks County, PA. While youre there, get updated listings of: Dining, Lodging, and Attractions in Bucks County. And to make the trip to Bucks County even more enjoyable, the Bucks County Conference & Visitors Bureau has divided the county into three regions: The Lakes Region, The Cultural Region, and The Heritage Region. Each region has its own specialty, but every visitor is sure to find a wide variety of activities wherever they may go. The separate regions allow visitors to plan their visit to Bucks more efficiently, as it is nearly impossible to experience the entire county in one day.
To speak to one of the knowledgeable Visitor Center Staff call 800-836-BUCKS or visit The Bucks County Visitor Center, 3207 Street Road, Bensalem, PA. The Visitor Center displays a rotating art exhibit, featuring local Bucks County artists. Annual events, such as a Museum and Historic Site Gift Shop Sale and Student Art Contest Exhibit, are held in the Visitor Center as well. The Bucks County Gift Shop is also in the Visitor Center, featuring items that are found only in Bucks County.
Check out Sand Castle Winerys brand new wine-tasting room, veranda, and banquet facilities; all made to look like a real castle! Historic Bristol is celebrating the towns 325th anniversary in 2006, and Pennsbury Manor is opening a state-of-the-art Visitors Center. The Garden of Reflection, a memorial park for the victims of 9-11 in Lower Makefield, will be completed in June 2006. Visit the James A. Michener Art Museum in Doylestown for the Ansel Adams: A Celebration of Genius exhibit. Visit Bucks County this summer because Sesame Place will be opening a brand-new attraction in June 2006; Elmos World, an all-new play area with three new rides.
Into Music? Art? Nature? Fun? For everything youre into, get into Bucks County, Pennsylvania.
The Bucks County Conference & Visitors Bureau, Inc (BCCVB) is the official tourist promotion agency for Bucks County. The mission of the BCCVB is to increase visitation to Bucks County by effectively marketing its heritage, accommodations and attractions. For more information on BCCVB activities call 1-800-836-BUCKS, visit http://www.ExperienceBucksCounty.com or stop by the Bucks County Visitor Center located at 3207 Street Road in Bensalem (adjacent to the entrance to Philadelphia Park Racetrack). The Visitor Center is open seven days a week from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. It is easily accessible from the Pennsylvania Turnpike, Route 1 and Interstate 95.
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A Journey Behind the Romanian Iron Curtain
(PRWEB) February 18, 2006
During the trip you will watch on the video different TV shows from that time, you will listen poems dedicated to Ceausescu and you will be told a lot of interesting things about the relation between past, present and future. You will visit different places in the country, see with your own eyes the communist paradise, how the people lived in that times, and enjoy staying in classical communist Hotels, enjoying the way we were served in that times.
You have also the opportunity to see the modern Romania, enjoy also real 4* Hotel western standards, and see the way the things have improved. It is an experience that you will never forget.
Day 1: Arrival in Bucharest. Welcome cocktail and a presentation will be held about the basis of communism and the Romanian implementation. Dinner and accommodation in a 4* Hotel.
Day 2: Bucharest city tour. We will visit the actual Parliament Palace, former Palace of Socialism, see from outside the residence of the Ceausescu family, and visit a normal 1 room flat in a typical concrete building built during communist times. Lunch in Bucharest, and afternoon departure to Brasov. Dinner and accommodation to a 4* Hotel.
Day 3: Visit of Brasov city, and you will be told the story of the first strike against communism and Ceausescu on 15th November 1987. Also we will visit a factory from that times. Lunch in Brasov. Afternoon we might go and visit the Dracula Castle near by, and enjoy a special dinner with folk music and wine tasting.
Day 4: One full day in Sighisoara. First we will see this very interesting citadel, the only medieval one which is still inhabited. After the cultural things, we will visit a factory, a typical one like in the communist times. If possible we will have lunch with the workers. Afternoon we will go in one of the villages in neighborhood to see how a colhoz was organized, and what happened nowadays with those ruins. After visiting the Biertan saxon fortified church, we will enjoy a wine tasting near by. A surprise dinner will expect us and accommodation in a 3* Hotel in Sighisoara.
Day 5: Departure to Deva. On the way we will visit the communist prison from Aiud and Hunedoara, the place where the a 13th century castle is falling apart because of the heavy industry maintained without any care about ecological rules built near by. Accommodation in a typical communist Hotel in Deva. Dinner will be served accordingly.
Day 6: Departure to Targu Jiu over the Jiu valley. From Petrosani we will take the train and enjoy the normal journey with the locals from Petrosani to Tg. Jiu. Here we will stay to a 3* Hotel and have the unique chance to see 4 works of the famous Romanian sculptor Constantin Brancusi and hear his story, especially the last part of his life when he was banned by the communists. He died therefore in France, giving to his new country for free all his works estimated now to almost 500 mln USD.
Day 7: Departure over Craiova, we will stop at Scornicesti to see the place where Ceausescu was born. Lunch on the way. In the evening we will arrive in Pitesti and be again accommodated in a communist hotel and be served accordingly. We will visit the Bratianu Family House, a famous Romanian politicians family from 19 and 20th Century, something like Kennedy in USA, family who has been destroyed by the communists, its leaders killed in the 50s and their houses taken and made offices out of them. One of those houses will be visited by you, and also we will have dinner in one of the famous chalet that Ceausescu had in every county. You will receive a meal as he used to have with wild, special wines etc, and feel like a good Camarade.
Day 8: Departure to Bucharest to the airport.
Services: 4* Bus or minibus with Video System, bar, toilet (in case of bus) 4* Hotels, except the special nights English speaking guide all the time Lecturer in Bucharest and Brasov Full board, with special meals according to the program.
For further information please contact: Cultural Romtour
Address:
108A Popa Nan street,
030583, Sect. 3, Bucharest
Romania
Tel: +40 (21) 323 14 31
Fax: +40 (21) 322 16 50
Mobile: +40 723 00 66 57