Written by Greg Crabtree

You have watched your newest hire work for their first 30 days and you are looking back at their great resume and 15 years of experience. All you can think is, “Does he really have 15 years of experience or just one year of experience 15 times?”

It was this experience that led us to make “you have to love training” one of our core values. As we tried to differentiate our CPA firm from our peers, we chose to have professional staff that could do 5 core areas of work instead of just audits or tax returns. Every time I would try to hire someone with experience, they would be competent in only one area out of the five. Since they also had “years” of experience, they demanded a premium pay that bore a poor relationship to profitability.

Instead of just passing on the cost to my clients of my paying too much for labor, I decided to solve the problem a different way. By growing my own talent, I would be able to keep access to our services more affordable and fulfill our mission of serving businesses between startup and $5 million in revenue. But, I would have to prove we could train people and stay profitable. We would also have to accept the slower growth curve that comes with growing your own talent.

The first step was to identify the 5 core areas we needed them to be competent in.  For us, that was personal tax, business tax, accounting system implementation, financial statement preparation and forecast modeling.  The next step was to identify the personality characteristics needed and screen for those with our test from Caliper (www.calipercorp.com). Using Caliper has been like having a corporate psychologist on staff.  For a onetime fee of $285 for the test, we get an email with basic results within 24 hours and a call from their consultant to discuss the results. After the call, we get a written report with even greater detail findings within 3 days. Since we have tested all of our team with this service going back to 1998, the consultant can give us incredible feedback on how new hires will work with an existing member of our team as well as guidance (all included in the original cost of the test) as we transition existing team members into new roles.

Once we hired our prototype employee, we had to schedule the work for them to stretch but not break them. We employed a 70/20/10 training philosophy that we told them when they were hired. 10% of your training will be classroom, 20% will be one on one mentoring and 70% will be throw you off the deep end of the pool to see what you can do. You will take a lung of water, but we won’t let you die. Until I throw them off the deep end of the pool, I do not know what they really can do.

When we started this process in 2003, I had just asked some partners to leave that were not aligned around this mindset and we were at breakeven profitability, down to 9 employees and $1 million of revenue. Up to this point, when we added an expensive person with narrow experience, we could get some growth but no profit since they could not be used for more than one service offering and they were resistant to expanding their skill sets. When they would leave by our choice or theirs, we would start the crazy cycle all over again.

By 2010, we were on pace to do $1.8 million in revenue and had 21 employees and were on target for 10% pre-tax profit. The employee we hired as our prototype is still with us and is one of our top client managers. We had only one client manager leave to take a job with a client and only one new hire did not make the cut.  Going from turning over 1 to 2 professional staff each year to turning over 2 professional staff in 7 years is a pretty good turn around. We have always had plenty of new business opportunities, our only bottleneck was how quickly we could add the right people. This process allowed us to peg our growth rate to our talent development rate.

What did we learn?

1. New hires have no baggage to unlearn
2. What we thought would take 4 to 5 years took only 2 to 3
3. We found new services to sell to clients that also served as training work for our developing team
4. People love the opportunity to grow
5. We have the capacity to grow 2 people per year
6. Hire for attitude, train for skills really work!

About the Author: Greg Crabtree has worked in the financial industry for more than 30 years. He founded Crabtree, Rowe & Berger, PC, a CPA firm dedicated to helping entrepreneurs build the economic engine of their business.  Crabtree leads the business consulting team, helping clients align their financial goals with their profit model and their core business values. He is the author of Simple Numbers, Straight Talk, Big Profits! For more information, please visit: http://www.seeingbeyondnumbers.com/

The major Internet Company makes an annual revenue of approximately $88.3 million dollars off of its user review site, which allows users to personally review everything from restaurants, to shopping, to nightlife.

The company has seen wild success as a business, recently passing 25 million total reviews on its site, which are each cataloged, starred and ranked. Over 66 million unique visitors look at Yelp on a monthly basis, which is an outlandish feat in terms of foot traffic earned towards advertising revenue.

In addition, in an age where huge advertising bucks rest on the data mined from information mining, the site’s warehouse of user preferences make them an elite contender in the new internet market.

Other Content on Business Review USA

Facebook’s 200 Million Dollar Muralist

Yelp to Go Public; Files for $100 Million IPO

However, while Yelp as a business model holds up against its competitors including Facebook, Groupon and LinkedIn, many experts are saying the IPO estimate is way too high. Chief Investment officer at Harris Private Bank in Chicago, Jack Albin---who was interviewed by Bloomberg.com--claimed, “The initial valuation seems high relative to their peers. I’m not sure where their huge growth catalyst is going to come from.”

Accurate or not, the projections of Yelp’s initial offering indicate one thing: The boom of Internet IPO’s is not going anywhere, rather demand for web stocks are bound to only increase at exponential rates. 

(SAN DIEGO, CA, December, 2011) – Business Review USA, the top digital media source for American business news, explores the InterContinental San Francisco– an elegant luxury hotel that’s keeping an eye on innovation and a view of the San Francisco skyline.

“Located in the City’s lively South of Market (SoMa) district, the InterContinental is a towering landmark infused with the perfect balance of technology and intimacy,” the article reads. “Its 32 floors and 550 guest rooms are wrapped in floor-to-ceiling windows that have a cool, blue tone on the outside and provide access to dazzling sunlight and views of the City from within.

It’s no accident that the InterContinental is a business traveler’s paradise. The hotel’s original design incorporated feedback from business travelers and 250 building planners.”

Read the article here.

About Business Review USA
Business Review USA is a leading digital media source of news and content for C-level executives focused on business and industry-specific news throughout the United States. Business Review USA is the territory-dedicated arm of the White Digital Media Group. Founded in 2007 by entrepreneur Glen White, White Digital Media retains a diversified portfolio of websites, magazines, daily news feeds and weekly e-newsletters that leverage technology to innovatively deliver high-quality content, analytical data, and industry news.

Business Review USA is headquartered in San Diego, California, with an additional office in Boston. For more information, contact 1-760-827-7800 or visit http://www.BusinessReviewUSA.com.

Press Contact
Sharise Cruz
Business Review USA
Telephone: (760) 579-7875
Email: sharise.cruz@wdmgroup.com

(SAN DIEGO, CA, December, 2011) – Business Review USA, the top digital media source for American business news, takes a look at the best and worst Super Bowl commercials of all time in the February issue, available now.

“Perhaps the most remarkable branding benefit of a Super Bowl commercial is the high possibility of staying power. It’s not easy to retain the public’s interest over months, let alone years, but history has proven that a buzz worthy Super Bowl ad can keep a brand in the pop culture lexicon for decades.

This year’s Super Bowl XLVI ad slots officially sold out in early January and the pressure to deliver something memorable is as high as it’s ever been. In honor of this branding bonanza, we’re refreshing your memory with a look at some of the best and worst Super Bowl ads from past years,” Editor-in-Chief Sharise Cruz writes.

The article takes an in-depth look at ads that revolutionized modern television marketing—for better and for worse. Some Super Bowl commercials have the power to keep a brand name buzzing at the water cooler for years while some just turn out to be a colossal waste of money.  “The average 30-second Super Bowl commercial slot now costs about $3.5 million dollars (excluding production expenses) and has the potential to create unprecedented brand buzz as the event’s captive audience grows with each passing year,” the article reads.

About Business Review USA
Business Review USA is a leading digital media source of news and content for C-level executives focused on business and industry-specific news throughout the United States. Business Review USA is the territory-dedicated arm of the White Digital Media Group. Founded in 2007 by entrepreneur Glen White, White Digital Media retains a diversified portfolio of websites, magazines, daily news feeds and weekly e-newsletters that leverage technology to deliver high-quality content, analytical data, and industry news.

Business Review USA is headquartered in San Diego, California, with an additional office in Boston. For more information, contact 1-760-827-7800 or visit http://www.BusinessReviewUSA.com.

Press Contact
Sharise Cruz
Business Review USA
Telephone: (760) 579-7875
Email: sharise.cruz@wdmgroup.com

(SAN DIEGO, CA, February, 2011) – Business Review USA, the top digital media source for American business news, discusses the biggest Super Bowl ad failures and successes of all time in the February issue.

The Super Bowl commercial has evolved into a battle for brand relevancy and marketing supremacy. Business Review USA’s February cover story takes an in-depth look at some of the commercials that kept people buzzing at their water coolers for years—for better and for worse.

This month, Business Review USA also takes you inside the InterContinental San Francisco—one of the nation’s most modern, innovative and spectacular business travel destinations—and provides insight on how innovation can lead to profitable growth for small-to-medium businesses.

Since there’s no better time than the present to get your finances on track, the February issue also explores the current US economic situation and reveals what can be expected for the rest of 2012. The outlook is brighter than you might think, especially if you happen to be one of the country’s most business-savvy athletes or one of the top ten sports franchise owners—all featured in this month’s issue of Business Review USA.

About Business Review USA
Business Review USA is a leading digital media source of news and content for C-level executives focused on business and industry-specific news throughout the United States. Business Review USA is the territory-dedicated arm of the White Digital Media Group. Founded in 2007 by entrepreneur Glen White, White Digital Media retains a diversified portfolio of websites, magazines, daily news feeds and weekly e-newsletters that leverage technology to deliver high-quality content, analytical data, and industry news.

Business Review USA is headquartered in San Diego, California, with an additional office in Boston. For more information, contact 1-760-827-7800 or visit http://www.BusinessReviewUSA.com.

Press Contact
Sharise Cruz
Business Review USA
Telephone: (760) 579-7875
Email: sharise.cruz@wdmgroup.com

Facebook was then just a fledgling, scrappy company who had not yet sprawled into its huge mega IPO status in the business world. So rather than feel elated with his decision, Chloe initially regretted taking the stock options in lieu of the cash. He later told the New York Times that his stock choice was, “ridiculous and pointless.”

Thank God for seemingly irrational artistic intuition. After Facebook famously went public, Choe's stocks totaled an approximate 200 million dollars. Shortly put: Choe is putting Van Gogh to shame.

Is Choe shucking off centuries of artistic poverty shackles? He even recently interviewed with Barbara Walters about the old myth of the suffering artist, dispelling the myth that genius equals pain. It seems his stance on art may be, like Facebook, entirely revolutionary. 

BARBARA WALTERS INTERVIEW

His website bio paints a very different picture of the now mega-mogul artist stating, “[David] is currently homeless, wandering the earth, making good art and bad music.” From rags to riches is a total understatement; Choe almost instantaneously transformed from homeless street tagger to his elite spot as one of the world’s wealthiest artists.

He even has a biographical documentary coming out titled, “Dirty Hands: the Art and Crimes of David Choe” which will explore his unlawful, hustler life which even led to a three month stint in prison.

DIRTY HANDS THE ART AND CRIMES OF DAVID CHOE

Other Content in Network

Zuckerberg of Facebook May face $ 2 Billion Tax Punch

Facebook Files for $5 Billion IPO

Dave Choe, whom the art world considers an up-and-coming bad boy renegade artist, has a brilliant body of prolific work and in many ways is positioned to become this generation’s most relevant artist. More so, his success as a muralist is absolutely unprecedented in the art world, as even high-brow artists do not usually see great monetary rewards in their life time.

It seems like the wake of Facebook’s innovative emergence into society has not waned; only bled into other cultural fabrics and paradigms. 

NEW HOLLAND, Pa., Feb. 16, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Alouette® Cheese announced the introduction of a new line of deliciously spreadable cheddar cheeses. Featuring a full body and fine robust flavor, the new spreadable flavors – Sharp Cheddar Cheese and Bacon Cheddar Cheese – are both perfect for serving as a snack or for entertaining guests.

Available in a convenient, ready-to-serve 6 oz. container, the creamy, savory cheddars can be served with crackers or pretzels, spread on a sandwich or slice of bread, or used to add great flavor to a traditional mac 'n cheese dish. The new cheddars are available in the deli section of supermarkets across the country and retail for $4.99.

"Bacon is a top 10 food trend of the decade according to the Food Network, and cheddar is the world's best selling cheese," said Director of Marketing New Products, Cristina Anton Villa. "We are very enthusiastic to add two new cheddar flavors to an award-winning line up that already includes Alouette Garlic & Herbs and Alouette Savory Vegetable Soft Spreadable Cheese."

The new cheddar flavors offer the same quality and superior taste that consumers have come to expect from a beloved brand like Alouette. Several product attributes include:

• Made with Grade A Milk
• Made with 12-month aged cheddar
• Kosher Certified (OUD)
• Gluten-free

Greg Gable, Executive Chef for Alouette, has created new serving suggestions incorporating the new cheddars. Alouette also offers recipes, serving suggestions, entertaining tips and nutritional values on www.alouettecheese.com.  

About Alouette

The Alouette® brand has grown over the years, extending its unique line of cheeses to include a wide variety of Alouette Spreadable Cheese flavors as well as other specialty cheese products, such as the 2011 Chef's Best® award-winning Alouette Baby Brie. Today, Alouette is a leading brand in the Specialty Cheese Category in the United States and is the #1 brand of Premium Spreadable Cheese.

The Chef's Best Award for Best Taste is awarded to the brand rated highest overall among leading brands by independent professional chefs. For more information regarding American Culinary Chef's Best, visit www.chefsbest.org.

About Chef Greg Gable

Chef Greg Gable joined Alouette Cheese USA, LLC in 2007 as Executive Chef.  Gable first acquired critical acclaim during his 13 years at Le Bec-Fin, one of Philadelphia's finest dining institutions. He has also received several accolades, such as the Philadelphia Inquirer's 3 Bells Award of Excellence and the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence.  Gable is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, N.Y.

SOURCE Alouette

Oscar Aubert, political scientist and expert on West Europe, Russia and CIS, has stated that Putin remains the most popular politician in Russia despite large-scale protests in Moscow.

"The European, and, in particular, the French press often describe the situation in Russia as "Russians protest against Putin's policy," "Russians are outraged by the election frauds," etc. But let's ask ourselves how many protesters, dissatisfied, or, as people now call them, "angry" Russians there are. A fair answer to this question will make many people look at the situation in Russia from a completely different angle.

"As a starting point we take the results of opinion poll, obtained by sociological research organization Levada Center. Unlike two other companies that also specialize in national polling, Levada Center is a private company that doesn't receive governmental funding; by the way, it regularly receives orders to make sociological studies for the Russian opposition. The survey cited below was conducted on January 20-23, 2012 - the "surprise effect" of the December protests had already passed by that time, the government and the opposition were systematically preparing their supporters for mass actions on February 4.

"Let's start with a question which will allow us to determine "the degree of opposition-intensity" of the Russian society towards Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, who is going to retake the presidential chair on March 4: "Do you support the slogans "Russia without Putin" and "Putin should leave"? 6% of respondents gave the answer "definitely support", another 15% - "rather support". As a result 21% of Russians can be attributed to Vladimir Putin's opponents of various degrees of radicalism. On the other hand, the responses "rather don't support" and "don't support" were given by 29% and 32% respectively. It means that 61% of Russians can be attributed to Vladimir Putin's supporters of various degrees of loyalty. 17% found difficulty in replying.

"On a more specific question "Do you generally approve or disapprove of Vladimir Putin's activity as the Russian Prime Minister?", 64% of Russians gave the answer "approve", and only 34% answered "don't approve".

"It is obvious that in this case to speak of "a confrontation between the authorities and the people" today in Russia is at least not correct. But the expected victory of Vladimir Putin in the first round is a direct consequence of this sociology.

"Violations of law and/or fraud in the parliamentary elections in the Western and the French media were widely recognized, though of the opposition had a lot of problems with finding convincing evidence. But the Russian media convince us that "Russians protest against unfair elections." Yes, those who gather at the opposition rallies, protest against election frauds. But what about the rest? Again we turn to Levada Center's study which aked the Russians: "do you think that the elections in the State Duma of the Russian Federation, December 4, 2011 were fair?"

"The answer "fair" was given by 8% of Russians, the answer "rather fair" - by 35%. On the other "pole" are 23% that believe that the elections were "rather unfair", 14% gave the answer "unfair". 19% of respondents found difficulty in replying. Thus, the majority, though a relative one (43%), to one degree or another, believe that the parliamentary elections were fair.

"To sum up, it is necessary to mention once again - actively protesters, "angry" or even ones simply dissatisfied with Prime Minister Vladimir Putin's policy, Russians are a minority. They are, of course, can't be ignored, their voice should be heard by the authorities. But exactly to the extent that is respective to their share in the Russian society. After all, the democracy that we so willingly want to teach the Russians, first of all, is the will of the majority. And not the diktat of the minority, even if we, the West, like this protesting minority more than the majority of Russians that vote for Putin."

Oscar Aubert is a sociologist, political scientist, an expert for West Europe, Russia and CIS

SOURCE Russia Insights www.russia-insights.com

Foreign exchange is one of the most popular traded financial products, providing attractive opportunities for savvy traders in Singapore, even in volatile market conditions.

Here we look at the top five forex trading tips with a focus on using FX Accucharts from City Index Asia as a trading tool.

1. Research & Analysis

Before jumping into an FX trade it is important to learn how to use technical and fundamental tools so that you can trade more effectively.

2. Trading Plan & Tools

Fortunately, there are a number of leading trading platforms to help you to achieve more consistent trading results, one of which is FX Accucharts; developed by City Index Asia.

FX Accucharts provides traders with the convenience of rapid and accurate analysis, whilst allowing you to benefit from professional features such as real-time price feeds and multiple time frame analysis to uncover potential future market directions.

Key features include:

• Over 150 indicators/oscillator variations 
• Customisable charts to fit your individual preferences 
• Personalised chart analysis and indicators
• Ability to save and share customised workspaces with other FX Trader account holders
• Audible price alerts
  

3. Risk Management

Stop and limit orders can help you manage risk and protect potential profits by helping you get in or out of the market at specified prices.

4. Discipline

One of the most important parts of formulating a trading strategy can simply be to stick to it.

However, not every trade you make will be successful. In a losing situation, it is easy to let losses accumulate in the hope that prices will turn around.

Experienced traders tend to cut their losses quickly and run their profits to a level they expect the market to reach, using their trading strategy and trading plans to help enforce these rules.

5. Follow the News

Because your forex trades will move in tandem with the live market and are likely to be influenced by global, social and economic events, you will be in a much better position to open new trades or exit positions by keeping up to date with market events.

Summary

If you want to learn more about foreign exchange, or even start trading with City Index Asia, you can view more information here: http://www.cityindex.com.sg/fx-trading/start-trading-fx.aspx

Forex trading involves substantial risk of loss and is not suitable for some investors.

Trading CFD and FX on margin carries a high level of risk, which may not be suitable for some investors.

Consider your investment objectives, level of experience, financial resources, risk appetite and other relevant circumstances carefully. The possibility exists that you could lose some or all of your investments, including your initial deposits.

About City Index:

Today more and more individual traders are discovering the benefits of derivatives, and many of them are discovering them through a City Index trading platform.

City Index is a leading global provider of margined foreign exchange, CFD trading and in the UK, spread betting. As a group, we transact in excess of 1.5 million trades every month for individuals in over 50 countries worldwide. To learn more visit: http://www.cityindex.com.sg/

SOURCE City Index Singapore

HOUSTON, Feb. 16, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- David Braun, a Regional Vice President of GDF SUEZ Energy Resources, will be featured at the 16th annual Ohio Energy Management Conference Feb. 21-22 in Columbus.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100210/DA52541LOGO)

Braun, who oversees commercial and industrial sales in MISO and the western region of PJM for the company, will speak as part of a panel discussion entitled "Savvy Buyer…Electricity Procurement and Risk Management Best Practices." The session is scheduled for 3:15 p.m. on Feb. 21 at the Columbus Renaissance Hotel, which is hosting the two-day event.

"Although Ohio has had a deregulated environment for years, recent changes in the market present some real challenges for anyone responsible for procuring power," Braun said. "The ability to successfully meet those challenges – and to manage the risks and maximize the opportunities that come with a competitive marketplace – can have a major impact on energy strategies, usage, and costs."

Braun has more than two decades of experience in the energy and utility industries, and his remarks will focus on a broad range of issues critical to Ohio businesses. These include understanding how energy is priced; contract language and terms, including avoiding hidden costs and fees; pricing transparency; determining pricing risk tolerance; and identifying strategies to manage commodity market risks.

The Ohio Energy Management Conference is the largest event of its kind in the American Heartland, attracting over 6,700 attendees. This year's conference will include sessions on shale gas – considered an energy "game changer" – as well as best practices, case studies and instructional sessions on topics such as energy savings, energy efficiency, renewable energy, and funding and incentives for energy-efficiency projects.

The conference is being presented jointly by Industrial Energy Users-Ohio, the Ohio Chamber of Commerce and the Manufacturers' Education Council. In addition to Braun's appearance, GDF SUEZ Energy Resources is also one of the event's sponsors.

About GDF SUEZ Energy Resources NA
GDF SUEZ Energy Resources NA is one of the largest non-residential retail electricity suppliers in the U.S. and currently serves commercial, industrial and institutional customers in 12 markets: Delaware, Texas, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Connecticut, Ohio, and Washington, D.C. The company serves over 80,000 accounts for customers having a peak demand ranging from 50 KW to more than 200 MW, with an estimated peak load totaling nearly 10,000 MW. 

For more about GDF SUEZ Energy Resources, visit www.gdfsuezenergyresources.com or call 1-866-999-8374.  Follow GDF SUEZ Energy Resources on LinkedIn, Twitter: @GDFSUEZEnergy and Facebook. GDF SUEZ Energy Resources is part of International Power, which in North America manages a range of energy businesses in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, including electricity generation and cogeneration, natural gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG) distribution and sales, asset-based trading and origination, and retail energy sales and related services to commercial and industrial customers.

International Power is listed on the London Stock Exchange with ticker symbol IPR. GDF SUEZ holds a 70% interest in International Power plc. For more information, please visit www.iprplc-gdfsuez.com and http://www.gdfsuez.com.

SOURCE GDF SUEZ Energy Resources

Enovos, official partner of the RADIOSHACK NISSAN TREK WorldTour Team, as part of the co-operation agreement with Leopard S.A., is supporting the up-and-coming generation as represented by the LEOPARD TREK Continental Team. The new team is made up mainly of successful newcomers, the next generation of professionals in the U23 category, and will serve as a training team to promote young talent and cycle sports in general in Luxemburg.

Together with Leo, NordENERGIE, and Steinergy, the Luxembourg sales companies which belong to the Enovos Group, Enovos is Luxembourg's leading provider of natural gas, electricity, and energy services. Customers include industry, SMB's, distributors and private households alike. As an energy supplier with a strong awareness of its responsibilities, Enovos is always acutely aware of future generations and sustainable energy supply by way of regenerative energy sources. "The up and coming generations are a particular concern for us. By way of this commitment, we have taken on responsibility for them, whilst remaining true to our company slogan: "Energy for today. Caring for tomorrow.", says Jean Lucius, CEO Enovos Luxembourg.

As well as the regional clientele, Enovos also attracts a significant number of customers in Germany, France, and Belgium.

The LEOPARD TREK Continental Team is made up of 11 riders of different nationalities and one triathlete. Enovos is particularly pleased to be supporting the Luxembourg riders Bob Jungels (team captain), Pit Schlechter, Alex Kirsch, Joël Zangerle, and Dirk Bockel (triathlete).

As an innovative concern where closeness to customers is a top priority, the Luxembourg energy provider knows very well how keen the nation is on cycle sports, and has already been actively involved with the sport for some time. As well as a range of different sports functions, Enovos has long been a sponsor of major events such as the "Gala Tour de France" and the "Skoda-Tour de Luxembourg".

Enovos wishes the whole team lots of energy for a successful season in 2012.

Enovos - Natural gas, electricity and services

As main energy supplier in Luxembourg, also active on the German, French and Belgian energy market, Enovos Luxembourg's mission consists of generating electricity, natural gas and renewable energy for the industry, SMB's, distributors and private households and in delivering it to them.

In addition to its traditional core business, the company is expanding its activities mostly in the field of renewable energy.

Enovos Luxembourg is 100% owned by Enovos International S.A., a holding company with its headquarters in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg which also acts as an umbrella for the management of the grid operator, Creos Luxembourg S.A.

Expressed in numbers, the Enovos International Group currently consists of more than 1,300 employees, more than 280,000 points of delivery (electricity and natural gas), more than 8,700 km of electric lines and more than 3,600 km of gas pipelines. In 2010, the group had a turnover of
EUR 1.5 billion.

25.44% of Enovos International S.A. belongs to Luxembourg State, 10.01% belongs to the state-owned investment bank SNCI and 8.00% belongs to the City of Luxembourg. ArcelorMittal owns 23.48%, RWE owns 18.36%, E.ON has 10.00% and Electrabel holds 4.71%.

For more information, please visit: enovos.eu

Our download service for you:

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SKIPPACK, Pa., Feb. 16, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- GeoInvesting.com today announced that it has made additional research and due diligence available on L & L Energy.

Since its initial report on January 17, 2012, the GeoTeam has continued to develop even more conclusive proof to support its case that L & L Energy never purchased the Ping Yi Mine. After the Chinese New Year holiday, the GeoTeam contacted Mr. Hu Shiwei and Mr. Zhang Baoguo, the Ping Yi Mine owners, who control a combined 70% of its equity.  They said that they never transferred their interests of Ping Yi Mine to LLEN and/or its affiliated identities. The true owners of Ping Yi Mine provided the following:

• A video made by Mr. Hu Shiwei, The executive partner and legal representative of the Ping Yi Mine, in the office of the Notary Public showing the original business license and mining permit of Ping Yi Mine. In this video he also explained, with a written statement, the true ownership structure of Ping Yi Mine and other relevant matters.
• NOTARIZED copies of the original identity card of Mr. Hu Shiwei, the Ping Yi Mine business license and the Ping Yi Mine mining permit which exactly match the current SAIC file on record.   
• A notarized letter executed by Ping Yi Mine Legal Representative and Executive Partner Hu Shiwei stating that LLEN does not and never did own the Ping Yi Mine.

For links to all of the relevant material, as well as the revealing video, please go here:
http://geoinvesting.com/companies/duediligence/true_owner_of_ping_yi_mine_speaks_out.aspx

GeoInvesting Contacts:
Dan David, Vice President
Ph. 484-991-8426
Web site: http://www.geoinvesting.com/

SOURCE GeoInvesting.com

Shawn Andrews, Managing Director of Windsor stated, "The SBA enables banks to offer borrowers the loans they need to increase productivity, hire employees and benefit their local communities.  This partnership with the SBA will ultimately provide the foundation for the next generation of entrepreneurs and innovation in the US.  We at Windsor are proud to be part of the solution by allowing our bank clients to participate profitability in this great program."

In 2011, Windsor Advantage achieved its best year to date, generating over 84 million dollars in successfully completed transactions.  This achievement is built on 150 years of collective experience working with SBA lending programs and a commitment to industry compliance as evidenced by Windsor's recent SOC 1 Type 2 certification.  From offices in Chicago, Los Angeles, Boston, Charlotte, Kansas City and the corporate headquarters in Indianapolis, the Windsor Advantage team is poised to become the nation's preeminent SBA lender service provider.

To meet the demands of its growing business, Windsor Advantage made a significant investment in human capital, hiring five new professional staff members last year.  Windsor's internal success in 2011 also resulted in meaningful growth for the United States economy.  In partnership with its bank clients, Windsor helped to create or preserve over two thousand US jobs.  Windsor has also played a pivotal role in the growth of the nearly 100 US small businesses represented in the loans closed and serviced by the company on behalf of its bank clients.

The responsible and real growth of Windsor Advantage in 2011 is a significant achievement that is made more significant by the company's success in job creation and preservation and in facilitating the flow of invaluable financial support to small businesses across the country.  This is what makes Windsor Advantage a progressive industry leader.

About Windsor Advantage, LLC
Windsor Advantage provides a comprehensive outsourced SBA department solution to banks across the country.  Services include application packaging, loan closing and compliance, secondary market sales, loan servicing and regulatory exam support.  Windsor also provides continuing training and technical assistance to banks at no cost.  With more than 150 years of collective SBA lending experience, cutting edge systems and rigid controls, Windsor Advantage is uniquely qualified to support its clients to develop and execute a thoughtful and profitable SBA 7(a) loan program. 

The company is based in Indianapolis, Indiana with offices in Chicago, Los Angeles, Boston, Charlotte and Kansas City.  For more information, call 317.602.6648 or visit www.WindsorAdvantage.com.

Media Contact:
Engage Group, Inc.
Al E. Canal
917-398-4600
Email: acanal@engagegroupinc.com

SOURCE Windsor Advantage, LLC

Brooklyn tourists and residents can access Fort Greene Park's Wi-Fi near the visitor's center. The additional Central Park site joins Mineral Springs, Tavern on the Green and AT&T's seasonal Summer Stage deployment at Rumsey Playfield. Visitors to the Central Park Zoo will have access to AT&T Wi-Fi by the main entrance, food court and central garden areas.

"This initiative has been a huge success and we're thrilled that visitors to New York City's most popular parks can stay connected all year round," said Tom DeVito, AT&T vice president and general manager for New York and New Jersey. "We look forward to bringing even more parks online in the coming months so that more smartphone and tablet users can take advantage of this service."

The launch is part of a five-year digital initiative with Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and the City of New York to provide free Wi-Fi at 26 locations in 20 New York City parks across the five boroughs. In addition to Fort Greene Park and Central Park Zoo, New Yorkers can now access free AT&T Wi-Fi at many other park locations across all five boroughs including:

• Herbert Von King Park
• McCarren Park Field House
• Pier 1 and Pier 6 at Brooklyn Bridge Park
• Prospect Park Picnic House
• Astoria Park
• Tompkins Square Park
• Marcus Garvey Park
• Clove Lakes Park
• Battery Bosque and Ferry Landing at Battery Park
• Thomas Jefferson Park
• Joyce Kilmer Park
• Mineral Springs, Tavern on the Green, Rumsey Playfield in Central Park
• Devoe Park

AT&T operates the nation's largest Wi-Fi network** with nearly 30,000 AT&T Wi-Fi Hot Spots at popular restaurants, hotels, bookstores and retailers, including more than 650 hotspot locations in New York's five boroughs.

For more information on AT&T Wi-Fi locations and instructions on how to connect, visit AT&T Wi-Fi Access.

*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.

** Largest based on company branded and operated hotspots. Access includes AT&T Wi-Fi Basic.  A Wi-Fi enabled device required. Other restrictions apply. See www.attwifi.com for details and locations.

About AT&T

AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) is a premier communications holding company and one of the most honored companies in the world. Its subsidiaries and affiliates – AT&T operating companies – are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. With a powerful array of network resources that includes the nation's fastest mobile broadband network, AT&T is a leading provider of wireless, Wi-Fi, high speed Internet, voice and cloud-based services. A leader in mobile broadband and emerging 4G capabilities, AT&T also offers the best wireless coverage worldwide of any U.S. carrier, offering the most wireless phones that work in the most countries.  It also offers advanced TV services under the AT&T U-verse® and AT&T | DIRECTV brands. The company's suite of IP-based business communications services is one of the most advanced in the world. In domestic markets, AT&T Advertising Solutions and AT&T Interactive are known for their leadership in local search and advertising.

Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com.  This AT&T news release and other announcements are available at http://www.att.com/newsroom and as part of an RSS feed at www.att.com/rss. Or follow our news on Twitter at @ATT.

© 2012 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. Mobile broadband not available in all areas. AT&T, the AT&T logo and all other marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies.

Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

Information set forth in this news release contains financial estimates and other forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially. A discussion of factors that may affect future results is contained in AT&T's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. AT&T disclaims any obligation to update or revise statements contained in this news release based on new information or otherwise.

SOURCE AT&T Inc.

ORLANDO, Fla., Feb. 16, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Universal Orlando's Blue Man Group show is taking its unique and captivating brand of live entertainment to another level – complete with a new show environment, new music, new technology and new experiences.  

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120216/FL54904 )

Opening to the public on Friday, February 24, the show will take guests on an incredible journey where they'll join the Blue Men as they discover, engage and explore the world's obsession with cutting-edge technology.  New sections include Blue Men interacting with "GiPads" (think Gigantic iPads), a funny and perceptive look at contemporary modes of communication; and a pulsating new finale featuring an original Blue Man Group music score that will have guests jumping to their feet.

"The heart of our show is, and always has been, the Blue Man, and his inquisitive, wide-eyed take on the world," said Chris Wink, who co-founded Blue Man Group with Phil Stanton and Matt Goldman. "Our team of artists at Blue Man Productions has created fun, even astounding new visual aspects of the show, and our music team has given us a great new sound. We are really excited to incorporate these elements into the show at Universal Orlando Resort."

"This show will take one of Universal Orlando's most popular experiences to a whole new level," said Alice Norsworthy, Executive Vice President of Marketing and Sales for Universal Orlando Resort.  "It's the perfect complement to the incredible entertainment we offer at our destination."

Several of the signature moments that have made Blue Man Group one of today's best-loved theatrical productions will remain in the show, although in most cases, they have also been updated.  And as always, the production will fuse innovative theatrical spectacle with improvisation and vaudeville-inspired comedy, art, science and irresistible music performed by the Blue Man Group live band.

"Many of our audience's favorite pieces, including 'Paint Drumming' and 'Gum Balls/Marshmallows' will continue to be a part of the production – and yes, the first few rows will still need to wear ponchos," added Phil Stanton, Blue Man Group co-founder. "But we have developed some brand new elements of the show that provide a larger-than-life, rousing, interactive experience that I hope will really speak to all cultures and give some of our most devoted fans a new reason to check us out again."

For more information about Blue Man Group at Universal Orlando Resort – or to purchase tickets – visit www.universalorlando.com/blueman. 

About Blue Man Group

Blue Man Group is best known for its wildly popular theatrical shows and concerts that combine music, comedy and multimedia theatrics to produce a totally unique form of entertainment. The blissful party atmosphere created at the live events has become the trademark of a Blue Man Group experience. Currently, Blue Man Group theatrical shows can be seen in New York, Boston, Chicago, Las Vegas, Orlando, Berlin, Tokyo, and on tour throughout the U.S. Blue Man Group can also be seen onboard the new Norwegian Epic by Norwegian Cruise Line – the Official Cruise Line of Blue Man Group.

Blue Man Group's appeal is multi-generational, with several projects specifically designed for young people, including "Making Waves," a popular touring exhibit for children, and the recently launched national "Invent an Instrument" competition. The company's music, featuring custom made instruments and signature, percussive sound, can be heard on five albums, including the Grammy-nominated "Audio," as well as various film and television projects. As the company grows, it remains true to its vision of providing exciting experiences in a variety of media, appealing to a broad range of age groups and cultural backgrounds. Learn more at www.blueman.com.

About Universal Orlando Resort

There are many ways to enjoy your Orlando vacation – but there is only one Universal Orlando Resort.  It is a completely separate destination featuring two theme parks, three magnificently themed on-site hotels and a nighttime entertainment complex.  It's the only Orlando destination where you are not just entertained – you are part of the most exhilarating entertainment ever created. You can soar above Hogwarts with Harry Potter, swing above the streets with Spider-Man, battle aliens alongside Agent J, and help Shrek save Princess Fiona in Shrek 4-D.  You can be courageous, be outrageous – and be extraordinary.

Universal Orlando Resort is owned and operated by NBCUniversal, one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies.

SOURCE Universal Orlando Resort

Brazil's 'Father of Ethanol' Sees Bounty for Biofuel

The U.S. Congress recently allowed tariffs on imported ethanol to expire after being in place for more than three decades. Brazil's ethanol industry has long criticized the tariffs, which it saw as protecting corn ethanol from international competition. A pioneer in Brazil's ethanol sector expects the expiration of the tariffs to promote robust growth in the ethanol market throughout the Western Hemisphere and beyond. 

"We'll become a commodity market," predicted Mario Garnero, Chairman of the Sao Paulo-based merchant bank Brasilinvest and a pioneer in the rapid growth of Brazil's ethanol sector in the 1980s. "You have pork bellies and other indices. Why not have one come up for ethanol?"

Although ethanol futures contracts are bought and sold on commodity exchanges such as the Chicago Board of Trade and New York Mercantile Exchange, Garnero contends it is not yet a truly global commodity. He explains that the scale in production and trading, along with the number of exchanges dealing with the product, must increase markedly before ethanol attains that status.

"The standardization of product specifications and the way ethanol contracts are drafted -- and something closer to a single-pattern price for the maritime freight of ethanol, would also be of great help to the expansion of its global trade," Garnero added.

"Movements like these would truly help offset price volatility brought about by the seasonalities each country faces in ethanol production."

From An Additive to a Substitute

Petrobras, Brazil's national oil company, announced in 2006 that the South American country had achieved self-sufficiency in oil and gas production. That announcement marked a dramatic shift from the country's energy situation in the 1970s. Brazil's heavy reliance on imported oil back then became painfully clear as the country's government raised gasoline prices and rationed fuel sales to cope with the precarious supply situation.

After the first global oil market shock in 1973, Brazil's national government implemented an aggressive plan to expand the use of ethanol as an automotive fuel. Produced from domestically grown sugarcane, ethanol had been blended into Brazil's fuel supplies for decades. Under the National Ethanol Program (also known as the "Pro-Alcool" ["Pro-Ethanol"]) plan the government instituted in 1975, however, Brazil would attempt to reduce its dependence on oil imports by increasingly substituting ethanol for gasoline in vehicles.

To be sure, Brazil's government also actively promoted domestic oil exploration and production as a result of the oil shocks -- a move that has dramatically improved the country's energy security fortunes. However, the Pro-Alcool initiative did herald a significant shift in how Brazilian motorists powered their automobiles.

By the time Pro-Alcool went into effect, Brazil's gasoline supply contained less than 10 percent of ethanol by volume -- a result of progressively lower mixture percentages implemented in the decades following World War II. During the war, the ratio of gasoline to ethanol in blended motor fuel reached approximately 60:40 to compensate for difficulties in receiving oil imports.

Pro-Alcool subsidized the expansion of ethanol production with tax incentives for farmers to grow more sugarcane, developers to build biorefineries and automakers to build vehicles capable of running on ethanol. In addition, the government financed a distribution network to provide motorists easy access to ethanol fuel pumps.

The government also mandated a percentage mixture of ethanol and gasoline that fluctuated annually from 10 to 22 percent over two decades. Price controls that kept the ethanol prices artificially low also promoted rapid growth in sales of vehicles configured to run on 100 percent ethanol (E100), which is also known as "neat ethanol."

The growth in E100 vehicle sales stemmed from a proposal spearheaded by Garnero, who at the time was head of the Brazilian automakers' trade association ANFAVEA. ANFAVEA's members include global manufacturers such as GM, Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen.

"We were confronted with a government mandate: find a solution for gasoline or we'll impose a ration on consumers," recalled Garnero, who noted that rationing would have had serious negative economic effects on Brazil's automakers.

"I then decided to call all the presidents of the auto industry of Brazil and propose a solution that was not rationing: convert all gasoline engines to run on pure ethanol."

Because Garnero also sat on Brazil's National Commission on Energy, which oversaw the implementation of Pro-Alcool, he was in a unique position to shepherd the E100 proposal through the proper government channels. Garnero's role earned him the nickname "Father of Ethanol" in his country.

Once the E100 policy was in place, its effect on car sales quickly became apparent. According to figures from the Brazilian Sugarcane Industry Association (UNICA), only 2,271 ethanol-powered automobiles were sold in Brazil in 1979. The following year, the sales figure for neat-ethanol vehicles skyrocketed to 226,352. By 1983, the E100 vehicle sales figure more than doubled to 538,401 units. During the same period, sales of gasoline-powered automobiles fell from 826,462 in 1979 to 70,098 four years later. Low oil prices and ethanol shortages prompted Brazil's government to phase out the subsidies and price controls in the 1990s.

Flex-fuel automobiles, which can run on gasoline or ethanol -- or a mixture of both -- hit the Brazilian market in 2003 with sales of 39,095 units. In 2008, sales exceeded 2 million -- dwarfing sales of gasoline-only automobiles (127,896) and ethanol-only (68). Today, gasoline sold in Brazil must contain 25 percent ethanol. In addition, four out of five cars on Brazil's roads are flex-fuel models.

New Players on the Ethanol Team

Although the U.S. and Brazil are currently the world's top two ethanol producing countries, Garnero observed that production of the biofuel is spreading throughout tropical and subtropical regions that can support sugarcane production. He cites China and Thailand as two up-and-coming ethanol powerhouses. In addition, he sees the Philippines and Malaysia as possible contenders.

The region Garnero is most enthusiastic about, outside of his native Brazil, is Africa. He points out that agriculture is undergoing a "revolution" throughout the continent, most of which lies within the tropics. Garnero explains that Africa offers many of the same agricultural benefits that Brazil enjoys: long growing seasons with ample sunshine and moisture and favorable soil types. Coupling these built-in benefits with world-class growing and processing techniques could occur within 20 years, Garnero predicted. The drive to foster agricultural development throughout Africa should be a key driver in bringing cane-based ethanol "to a new level in the next 10 years," he said.

"We'll bring new important players into the game," said Garnero. "Africa will be on its way to renewable agriculture and creating jobs and wealth with ethanol production."

Garnero expects Brazil to play a major role in helping to develop ethanol industries in Africa and elsewhere by expanding its research and development efforts. In effect, he wants Brazil to become an even greater storehouse of knowledge and technology incubator for ethanol.

Spreading the Word

The "Father of Ethanol" does not take his bully pulpit as an ethanol pioneer lightly. This year alone he is taking on prominent roles at high-profile events touting renewable energy. By chairing green economy conferences in China and the U.S. and participating in civil society symposia leading to the United National Rio 20+ Conference in Rio de Janeiro, Garnero will have several platforms to expound upon his vision for Brazil's biofuels future.

"Brazil is today a country that's second-largest after the States but we have a capacity of going to 80 million cubic meters of ethanol vs. 40 million that Americans are producing," said Garnero.

Garnero also pointed out that no more than 1.5 percent of Brazil's arable land is used to grow sugarcane. Although the U.S. ethanol industry can produce five times more ethanol than Brazil, he contends that Brazil's avoidance of the "food vs. fuel" debate by using sugarcane rather than corn as a feedstock will be a strong selling point for emerging markets.

In addition, Garnero sees opportunities for cane-ethanol production in the U.S. He points out that the U.S. Gulf Coast, which has a long history of growing sugarcane from Florida to Texas, could become a major ethanol-producing region. As this map from the U.S. Department of Agriculture shows, U.S. ethanol production is concentrated in the Midwestern corn-growing region. The Gulf Coast, in contrast, boasts very few ethanol plants.

As Brazil develops second- and third-generation ethanol technologies by using bagasse from harvested cane fields, Garnero predicts that ethanol production in the South American country could double without using more arable land.

"What I think [Brazil's experience with ethanol] has shown is that when you do not put food competing with energy you have a very important source of energy coming down," concluded Garnero. "Since the beginning, we never thought that biofuels could be replacing or displacing oils. Rather, biofuels can have 10 to 20 percent of participation of total replacing oil. That's already a very huge contribution for pollution/clean air and increasing productivity in agriculture in Brazil."

CONTACT:
Anamelia Meirelles
forumamericas@forumamericas.org.br
+55-11-3094-7984

SOURCE Forum das Americas

Integrity Sales & Services, Inc. is a commercial market dealer of used trucks and trailer sales, service, and parts from makers like Ford, International, Freightliner, Volvo and others. The Company carries heavy duty inventory including used expedite, box, dump, grain and flatbed trucks, semi tractors, trailers, hot shots, light duty automobiles, and bucket trucks, with a large focus on the agriculture service market in the region. www.99trucks.com, www.99trailers.com

To request an investor packet on Integrity Sales & Services register online at www.wallstreetnewscast.com/request/prmk.html

Safe Harbor Notice

This press release may contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, such as statements relating to financial results and plans for future development activities, and are thus prospective. Forward-looking statements include all statements that are not statements of historical fact regarding intent, belief or current expectations of the Company, its directors or its officers. Investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's ability to control. Actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Among the factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements are risks and uncertainties associated with the Company's business and finances in general, including the ability to continue and manage its growth, competition, global economic conditions and other factors discussed in detail in the Company's periodic filings with the Security and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

Contact:

Tom Bustamante,
Investor Relations Counsel
Ludlow Capital, Inc
Phone: (347) 483-0121
Email: ludlowcapital@aol.com

SOURCE ProConcept Marketing Group, Inc.

Medical Design & Manufacturing (MD&M) is announcing a new launch in Fort Worth, Texas on March 14-15, 2012. In league with the flagship events MD&M West (Anaheim, CA) and MD&M East (Philadelphia, PA), MD&M Texas Conference is designed to provide an innovative, holistic approach to medical device design and development presented by experienced medtech industry experts.

"Texas has enormous potential to become one of the leading centers for medical innovation. With its wealth of resources including academic and commercial, this region is uniquely positioned to influence the future of healthcare, and specifically the medical devices market. MD&M Texas is a great example of an event that brings together insights from a diverse group of thought leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs to address some of the most fundamental issues facing medical device developers and manufacturers today," states speaker, Mir Imran, President, InCube Labs.

Mir has founded over 20 medical device companies and holds more than 200 issued patents for devices including the first FDA-approved Automatic Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator and advanced treatments for neural aneurysms, epilepsy, ulcerative colitis, obesity and chronic pain.  He will be sharing his unique insights in the panel discussion on achieving speed to market on day one of the MD&M Texas Conference.

The two-day program is designed to facilitate networking and provide practical solutions to challenges faced by both large and small scale medical technology companies. The first day offers 8 sessions including human factors, supplier controls, IEC 60601, and an expert panel on achieving speed to market. The second day provides step-by-step guidance on 510(k) updates and managing change control as two half-day workshops unique to MD&M Texas.

About MD&M Texas

MD&M Texas is a new launch in 2012 by the industry leading Medical Design & Manufacturing conference and exposition series, bringing the high standard of engaging, relevant content to the expanding medical device market in Texas. The MD&M series has been covering key issues in the medtech hubs annually in the West (Anaheim, CA), East (Philadelphia, PA) and Central (Minneapolis, MN) areas in the United States as well as designing specialized local events in San Jose, CA and Boston, MA under the BIOMEDevice brand.

The conference will be running alongside the MD&M Texas expo, a showcase of more than 514 exhibits of the latest technology and equipment. MD&M Texas attendees will also have full access to the co-located Quality Expo, Automation Technology Expo (ATX), TexasPack, Design and Manufacturing, AeroCon, Sustainability in Manufacturing, and Contract Manufacturing Expo.

To see the full program and confirmed speakers, and to register, please visit: http://www.MDMTexasConference.com

For sponsorship opportunities, please contact Christine Nguyen, Sponsorship Manager at +1-310-996-9445 or christine.nguyen@ubm.com

For more information on MD&M Texas and related conferences, please contact:

Jaime Hodges, Marketing Manager at +1-310-996-9415 or jaime.hodges@ubm.com

SOURCE MD&M Conferences

To view the multimedia assets associated with this release, please click: http://multivu.prnewswire.com/mnr/frostsullivan/54725/

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120215/MM52746 )

"PGi is positioning iMeet as a browser-based virtual meeting room application supporting video, which essentially brings the benefits of meeting face-to-face online to anyone and everyone," said Frost & Sullivan Principal Telecom Analyst Ronald Gruia. "PGi is perfectly positioned to be the provider of choice in an already growing segment of the videoconferencing hosted services market: desktop videoconferencing."

The iMeet marketing initiative has been largely viral and involved free trials to bolster acceptance among early adopters, supported by a multimedia awareness campaign. The pricing models are a mix of flat rate and license fee, with additional charges for add-on applications. The goal is to augment the adoption of videoconferencing services throughout enterprises, above and beyond telepresence or video rooms, and deliver superior quality of experience (QoE), along with the simplicity and efficiency of Internet-based tools.

While there are already informal "prosumer" applications that are readily available for free, the QoE in PGi's iMeet and GlobalMeet solutions makes them the conferencing solutions of choice among mid- to enterprise-level companies. The cost effectiveness, ease of use, and mobility of PGi's products provide high quality customer experience for all companies, big and small. iMeet, in particular, has gained a reputation for being simple, personal and mobile.

"Since most laptop models come with front-facing cameras, a light client that leverages collaboration alongside audio and video conferencing can be very useful in increasing enterprise-wide awareness and adoption of videoconferencing," notes Gruia. "PGi's meeting tools not only fulfill this requirement, but have also caught the eye of cost-conscious enterprises with their hosted pricing model."

In addition, the cloud-based model penetration in small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) will grow over time, providing PGi with considerable opportunities, as SMBs in the United States represent about 56 percent of the total workforce (65 million workers).

PGi's iMeet product offers users their own personal meeting room online that combines videoconferencing, audio conferencing, social networking and file sharing. iMeet's mobility suite for the iPhone and iPad provides users the essential tools for meeting on the go.

"Given that desktop videoconferencing adoption remains relatively low, we believe that the market is ripe for this type of solution: a robust, enterprise-class application that requires no downloads, takes few desktop/laptop resources and can deliver a compelling end-user experience," observed Gruia.  "Adoption of the hosted model by SMBs is expected to grow solidly over time, with the resulting impact on market share being pretty significant."

Each year, Frost & Sullivan presents this award to the company that demonstrates the most insight into the needs and product demands of its customers. The recipient company optimizes its product line by leveraging products with the various price, performance and feature points required by one or more market segments.

Frost & Sullivan Best Practices awards recognize companies in a variety of regional and global markets for demonstrating outstanding achievement and superior performance in areas such as leadership, technological innovation, customer service and strategic product development. Industry analysts compare market participants and measure performance through in-depth interviews, analysis and extensive secondary research to identify best practices in the industry.

About PGi
PGi has been a global leader in virtual meetings for 20 years. Our cloud-based solutions deliver multi-point, real-time virtual collaboration using video, voice and file sharing technologies. PGi solutions are available via desktops, tablets or mobile devices, helping businesses worldwide be more productive, mobile and green.  PGi has a global presence in 25 countries and an established base of more than 35,000 enterprise customers, including 75% of the Fortune 100^™.  In the last five years, we have hosted more than 725 million people from 137 countries in over 65 million meetings. For more information, visit us at http://www.pgi.com.

About Frost & Sullivan
Frost & Sullivan, the Growth Partnership Company, enables clients to accelerate growth and achieve best-in-class positions in growth, innovation and leadership. The company's Growth Partnership Service provides the CEO and the CEO's Growth Team with disciplined research and best-practice models to drive the generation, evaluation, and implementation of powerful growth strategies. Frost & Sullivan leverages 50 years of experience in partnering with Global 1000 companies, emerging businesses and the investment community from more than 40 offices on six continents. To join our Growth Partnership, please visit http://www.frost.com.

SOURCE Frost & Sullivan