industry pr

Press release news from the public relations clients of Tiziani Whitmyre, Inc.

Lifestyle Newsfeed


Wednesday, November 4th, 2009

Nordstrom Launches International Shopping In 30 Countries

SEATTLE (November 4, 2009)—Seattle-based Nordstrom, Inc. (NYSE: JWN) has introduced international shopping online to better serve customers globally, the company announced today. Customers outside and inside the U.S. can now browse and buy merchandise from nordstrom.com in different currencies and easily ship items to 30 countries.

Customers have the flexibility to ship to a particular country but pay in a separate currency. The new online feature also enables simple, reliable international order fulfillment and shipping. At checkout customers receive an estimated delivery timeframe, global tracking number, a guaranteed exchange rate at purchase and a complete order total including all applicable international duty, tax, and delivery costs. Available currencies for international shopping currently include:


· Canadian Dollar (CAD)

· Euro (EUR)

· British Pound (GBP)

· U.S. Dollar (USD)

· Czech Koruna (CZK)

· Danish Krone (DKK)

· Estonian Kroon (EEK)

· Hungarian Forint (HUF)

· Latvian Lats (LVL)

· Lithuanian Litas (LTL)

· Polish Zloty (PLN)

· Swedish Krona (SEK)

“We are excited about this opportunity to better serve our customers internationally,” said Jamie Nordstrom, president of Nordstrom Direct.

“We’ve made it a lot easier for our customers abroad to shop from nordstrom.com. Sending great fashion merchandise from Nordstrom to friends and family overseas is also more convenient than ever for our domestic customers. We will continue looking for ways to improve the shopping experience for customers, no matter where they live.”

Nordstrom has partnered with FiftyOne Global Ecommerce to offer international shopping. FiftyOne ensures a consistent shopping experience for Nordstrom customers by integrating all aspects of the international transaction — global pricing, payment, logistics and delivery — into an automated online order process.

To learn more about international shopping from Nordstrom, including the most up-to-date list of available countries, visit http://shop.nordstrom.com/internationalshopping. This website is offered in English only. For assistance in another language, customers can call 1-319-846-4140 from outside the U.S., 1-877-794-5304 from Canada or 1-888-282-6060 within the U.S.

Nordstrom, Inc. is one of the nation’s leading fashion specialty retailers, with 182 stores located in 28 states. Founded in 1901 as a shoe store in Seattle, today Nordstrom operates 112 full-line stores, 67 Nordstrom Racks, two Jeffrey boutiques and one clearance store. Nordstrom also serves customers through its online presence at www.nordstrom.com and through its catalogs. Nordstrom, Inc. is publicly traded on the NYSE under the symbol JWN.

FiftyOne Global Ecommerce empowers leading U.S. retailers to utilize their existing ecommerce infrastructure and online shopping experience to market, sell, and fulfill merchandise to international shoppers with cost certainty. FiftyOne manages all aspects of the international order life cycle, from multicurrency merchandising and payments to global logistics, local delivery, and customer service. FiftyOne is powering international ecommerce for Anne Geddes, Anthropologie, Belisi Fashions, Brookstone, The Buckle, CHEFS Catalog, Drugstore.com, Johnston & Murphy, Overstock.com, SureSource, and many others. The company is headquartered in New York City. For more information, visit www.fiftyone.com.

# # #

Public Relations contact, Boston: Tiziani Whitmyre Inc., http://www.tizinc.com/public-relations


Monday, November 2nd, 2009

National Hearing Conservation Association Petitions OSHA to Lower Permissible Exposure Limits for Noise

nhca_wname1Westminster, CO ― November 2, 2009 ― Citing the fact that nearly 22 million American workers are exposed to hazardous noise on a daily basis and that occupational hearing loss continues to plague industry, the National Hearing Conservation Association (NHCA) has made a request to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to reduce the permissible exposure limit (PEL) for noise exposures.

 

“Noise-induced hearing loss is an insidious, permanent, and irreversible disease which has a tremendous negative impact on people’s lives. The good news is that this disease is 100% preventable,” said Rick Neitzel, PhD, CIH, NHCA President. “The bad news is that OSHA’s 30-year-old noise exposure regulation is not consistent with current scientific knowledge, is not uniformly applied across all industries, and has not proven effective in preventing noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL).”

 

NHCA has requested that OSHA lower the PEL in the Occupation Noise Standard 29 CFR 1910.95 from 90 dBA to 85 dBA, and the Action Level from 85 to 80 dBA. Citing recent research by NIOSH and other organizations, American workers face a considerable risk of NIHL associated with long-term work at the current PEL of 90 dBA and a 5 dB time/intensity exchange rate. NHCA has also requested that the time/intensity exchange rate be reduced from 5 to 3 dB.

 

In the letter, NHCA also requests that OSHA extend the PEL to other industries, such as construction, agriculture, oil and gas drilling and servicing, and shipbuilding, that are not covered by the existing regulation. NHCA also asks OSHA to rescind a policy (OSHA Field Operations Manual, 3/2009) which permits exposures up to 100 dBA without requiring implementation of noise controls.

 

“Nearly every other nation on earth has adopted a more protective 85 dBA exposure limit – which means that U.S. workers have a substantially greater risk of developing noise-induced hearing loss than do the workers of almost every other nation,” said Neitzel. “Also, workers in industries like construction, agriculture, and oil and gas drilling are currently not covered by an effective regulation, which is unacceptable, given the high levels of noise exposure associated with these industries.”

 

“The National Hearing Conservation Association is a multidisciplinary organization committed to the prevention of hearing loss, and as such is uniquely positioned to advocate for contemporary U.S. noise exposure regulations,” said Neitzel. “We feel that the proposed changes will help give American workers the protection that they deserve, and bring workplace noise regulations in the US in line with current scientific knowledge about noise and noise-induced hearing loss.”

 

NHCA’s letter to OSHA can be found online at: http://bit.ly/42a3GT.

 

About the National Hearing Conservation Association [NHCA]

The mission of the National Hearing Conservation Association is to prevent hearing loss due to noise and other environmental factors in all sectors of society. NHCA provides networking, resources and professional development opportunities to improve skills, practices and services for over 600 members. NHCA’s membership includes audiologists, researchers, students, industrial hygienists, educators, professional service organizations, safety professionals, medical professionals, engineers, audio professionals and others who have dedicated their work to the advancement of hearing loss prevention. For more information about the National Hearing Conservation Association, visit us online at www.hearingconservation.org.

 

Follow us on:

 

# # #

Public Relations contact, Boston: Tiziani Whitmyre Inc., http://www.tizinc.com/public-relations<–>


Wednesday, October 21st, 2009

First Commons Bank Assets Top $42 Million in First Quarter of Operations

fcb

– New Newton-based bank surpasses more than 1,000 FDIC-insured banks nationally in its first quarter of operations –

Newton, Massachusetts – October 20, 2009 – First Commons Bank, N.A. reported that its assets have grown to more than $42 million during its first quarter of operations ending September 30, 2009. The bank started operating on July 22, 2009 and serves businesses and individuals in Newton, Wellesley, Waltham, and metropolitan Boston.

“First Commons Bank’s extraordinary asset growth makes it one of the most successful new banks in the nation,” said Tony Nuzzo, Chairman, President & CEO. “With over 8,000 FDIC-insured banks in the US filing mid-year reports, our assets have surpassed more than 1,000 banks after just 10 weeks of operation.”

“Our strong performance demonstrates that the community is embracing the bank and its focus on high quality personal service delivered by proven, experienced professionals, in an environment that encourages relationships and consultation,” said Nuzzo. “Our clients enjoy immediate access to the bank’s CEO and senior officers, a key benefit for the small business owners and individuals who comprise our target market.”

Nuzzo said these results also validate the bank’s unique business model and vision: “Despite opening in the midst of economic uncertainty and one of the deepest recessions in banking history, our over 300 investors, most of them local, have provided a solid foundation for growth and profitability which is supplemented by strong community interest and participation.”

About First Commons Bank

First Commons Bank, a nationally-chartered, FDIC-insured, full-service, community bank, is dedicated to serving the banking needs of small to mid-size businesses and individuals in Newton, Wellesley, Waltham, and metropolitan Boston. First Commons Bank combines the industry’s most advanced technology with a highly experienced, onsite, management team to provide clients with superior, personalized service and the highest quality banking experience. It offers a comprehensive portfolio of retail and business banking services, including checking and savings accounts, online banking, ATM/debit cards, money market accounts, certificates of deposit, home equity loans, residential and commercial mortgages, consumer and business loans, and cash management services. First Commons Bank (www.firstcommonsbank.com) is headquartered at 718 Beacon Street in Newton, Massachusetts.

# # #

Public Relations contact, Boston: Tiziani Whitmyre Inc., http://www.tizinc.com/public-relations


Tuesday, July 28th, 2009

EH&E Awarded Consumer Product Safety Commission Contract to Evaluate Homes Containing Chinese Drywall

Needham, Mass. – July 28, 2009Environmental Health & Engineering (EH&E), Inc., a leading Massachusetts-based environmental and engineering consulting firm, has been contracted by the Consumer Product Safety Commission to study the Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) in homes built using Chinese drywall. The study will compare findings in 35 homes built using Chinese drywall with 15 “control” homes.

The drywall was imported into the United States earlier this decade due to a domestic shortage caused by a housing boom and construction following a series of hurricanes that struck the southeastern United States. It has been found that the drywall has high amounts of sulfur compounds, which are causing homeowners to experience foul odors, corrosion of electrical equipment and a host of health problems.

EH&E was selected for the project based on its’ high level of expertise and field experience in characterizing complex indoor environments. The company had been the prime contractor for IAQ to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and two of its principals, John D. Spengler, Ph.D. and John F. McCarthy, Sc.D., C.I.H., edited what is considered the most comprehensive guide available today on indoor air quality, the Indoor Air Quality Handbook.

“We’re very pleased to have been selected for this important study,” said McCarthy, President of EH&E. “Our team of dedicated professionals has the right experience in chamber simulations, advanced analytical assessment, data interpretation and comparative risk assessment to contribute to a clear understanding of the potential risks associated with these products”.

EH&E expects to work throughout the summer and complete the study in the fall of 2009.

About EH&E
EH&E (www.eheinc.com) has provided an extensive range of environmental and engineering consulting services for over 20 years. Our team consists of more than 60 experts with an outstanding record of providing business-focused solutions for issues that affect the built environment. EH&E has a depth of knowledge and credibility unmatched in the industry and our wealth of readily-accessible information has become a powerful resource for our clients.


Tuesday, July 28th, 2009

Sperian Fire Presents $60,000 Donation to National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

sperianfire_logo_4c-200 SMITHFIELD, RI July 28, 2009 Sperian Fire has presented a $60,000 donation to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation on behalf of America’s fallen fire heroes and their families. The donation was made at the Firehouse Expo in Baltimore.

The donation by Sperian Fire was made as part of a program promoting the honor, sacrifice, and memory of firefighters who have perished in the line of duty. The program included collecting and documenting the appreciation and memories of fellow firefighters of their fallen brothers and sisters in web-based Memorial Book for Fallen Firefighters at www.sperianfire.com.

Bill Sokol, Vice President, Strategic Marketing, Sperian Fire, presented the $60,000 check to Chief Dennis Compton, Chairman of the Board of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

“The firefighter support for this donation has been overwhelming – in just three months, nearly 7,000 have signed the Memorial Book for Fallen Firefighters,” Sokol said. “We are honored to be able to offer our financial support for this worthy foundation. Sperian Fire is happy to be able to help the families of those heroes that we have lost,” he said.

The donation was made by Sperian Fire in the names of all the firefighters who signed the Memorial Book. From Detroit to Dallas and from San Diego to Bangor, firefighters logged on and shared their thoughts and memories of those lost in the line of duty. One comment from Tampa read: “My brother, my friend. It is not how you died that made you my hero but how you lived.” Another from Newport News, Virginia read: “You and your loved ones have made the ultimate sacrifice, and for that, you and they will never be forgotten.”

“The National Fallen Firefighter Foundation relies on private donations to honor the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities,” said Chief Ronald Siarnicki, Executive Director of the National Fallen Firefighter Foundation. “This donation by Sperian Fire will help us achieve our overall goal of providing long-term support programs to the survivors of America’s fallen fire heroes.”

Firefighters are urged to continue to visit www.sperianfire.com to sign their names and document their lost brothers on the Memorial Book for Fallen Firefighters.

The donation is the largest charitable gift in Sperian Fire’s history.

As a part of the same program, Sperian Fire will donate $50,000CAN in a few weeks to the Canadian Fallen Firefighter Foundation.

About Sperian Fire

Sperian Fire (formerly Survivair, Biosystems and Securitex) is a division of Sperian Protection – a world leader in personal protective equipment. The Sperian Fire Group (www.sperianfire.com) offers high performance respiratory gear, action ready protective apparel, and instrumentation for firefighting and emergency services. Well-known products include the Warrior™ SCBA, Sperian Ultramotion® and Vectra SL™gear, Sperian Pathfinder™, and the Biosystems PosiChek3® SCBA Test Bench.

# # #


Thursday, July 23rd, 2009

First Commons Bank Opens for Business in Newton, Massachusetts

Innovative Banking Approach Creates 20 New Jobs

fcbNEWTON, Mass., July 22, 2009 — First Commons Bank, N.A., a new national bank, opened for business today in Newton, Massachusetts, after receiving final approval from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). The full-service community bank, located at 718 Beacon Street in Newton Centre, will combine superior personal service with the technology to create a unique, high-performance approach to banking. First Commons Bank initially will employ 20 people in its headquarters and branch operations.

First Commons Bank was founded by a group of 40 individuals who embraced the vision of the primary organizer, Tony Nuzzo, bank Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer.

“First Commons Bank is designed to address the major points of consumer dissatisfaction that exist in the current banking system,” said Nuzzo. “It has been my experience that clients want the superior service that comes with greater personal contact, the benefit of quick and logical decisions made onsite, and the convenience of immediate access to their money whether in the branch, at home, or from another remote location.”

To address these issues, the bank does not employ tellers, but highly experienced client service representatives working in private office pods. When clients enter the branch, they can consult with a knowledgeable representative, make extraordinarily quick transactions, or relax in a reception area with wide-screen television or in an onsite Internet cafe. In addition, they can enjoy the convenience of mobile banking using their cell phones or laptop computers.

“I believe we have created the future of banking with this superior service approach,” Nuzzo said. “We’re focused on serving business owners, entrepreneurs, and individuals in the Boston Metro West markets of Newton, Wellesley, and Waltham with a common sense approach to banking.”

First Commons Bank will offer a comprehensive portfolio of retail and business banking services, including checking and savings accounts, online banking, ATM/debit cards, money market accounts, certificates of deposit, home equity loans, residential and commercial mortgages, consumer and business loans, and cash management services.

Oversubscribed Capital Offering Validates “Future of Banking” Approach

First Commons Bank oversubscribed its capital offering, raising $18.3 million during one of the deepest recessions in financial services history.

“Despite a banking system that was on the verge of panic, our founders and investors were committed to the bank’s concept,” said Nuzzo. “Their strength and foresight enabled us to realize today’s opening and will help us achieve success for the bank, its shareholders, and the community.”

Nuzzo said the bank’s founders include lead investor Robert L. Reynolds, President and Chief Executive Officer of Putnam Investments — the only investor who holds more than 5% of the company’s shares, at about 5.5%. The ownership is widely dispersed with more than 300 investors.

Board of Directors Announced

The bank also announced the appointment of its board of directors. Along with Mr. Nuzzo, they include:

* Arnold D. Scott, Vice Chairman and lead external director, a financial services executive with 32 years of experience at MFS Investment Management
* Craig D. Divino, retired partner at Pittiglio, Rabin, Todd, & McGrath, an operational strategy consulting firm
* Joseph B. Doherty, Jr., owner/broker of Prudential Howe & Doherty Realtors, the area’s eighth largest residential realty firm
* Jules M. Fried, co-owner and Executive Vice President of the Lappin Company, a recruitment firm specializing in life science, financial services, and international personnel
* Peter N. Gordon, partner at eCom Advisors, a consulting firm to the online banking, billing, and payments industry
* Peter F. Mawn, founding partner of Oakmont Partners, LLC, a personal wealth management firm
* Matthew K. Miller, Managing Director of FinPro, Inc.
* Georgia Murray, former principal at Boston Financial, a real estate investment company
* Shannon P. O’Brien, former Massachusetts State Treasurer and gubernatorial candidate

“Our directors have a wide range of business and professional experiences and they are committed to the growth of First Commons Bank,” Nuzzo said. “The board will serve as an immeasurable resource as we launch our innovative approach to banking.”

For more information, call 617-243-4400 or visit www.firstcommonsbank.com.


Thursday, June 11th, 2009

New “The Dipper” Compact Golf Ball Retrievers Are Ideal as Promotional Products, Golf Promotional Items

WALPOLE, MASSACHUSETTS, June 11, 2009 – This year’s best option for promotional products and golf promotional items may also be one of the most useful – The DipperTM – the world’s most compact golf ball retriever.

The Dipper compact golf ball retriever is a unique choice among promotional products and custom golf promotional items. Designed for discretion, The Dipper’s small size makes it ideal for golfers who don’t want to carry a bulky, unsightly ball retriever in their bag. Collapsed, the Dipper is only 7 inches long and weighs less than 3 ounces. In use, The Dipper clips to the shaft of a bladed club and extends to over 12 inches to easily retrieve golf balls from ponds, creeks and wetlands.

Figuring the cost savings in balls, as golf promotional items, products and gifts go, The Dipper compact golf ball retrievers are promotional items that “keep on giving.”

[Download high-resolution photo from: http://bit.ly/GXyPc ]

The Dipper is constructed of rust-proof aircraft aluminum and high impact-plastic. It is available in a variety of colors and can be imprinted with organization or corporate logos. Discount pricing is available for quantity orders of The Dipper.

For more information, contact T R Miller Co., Inc., a leading sports merchandising company, at www.dippergolf.com, phone 1-508-850-7610, or email: dippergolf@trmiller.com.

About T R Miller Co., Inc.
Founded in 1975, T R Miller Co., Inc. (www.trmiller.com) is an industry leader in custom promotional items and merchandise. Based in Walpole, Massachusetts, the company designs and sells sports and corporate promotional products to businesses, organizations, and consumers around the world. In addition, T R Miller Co., Inc. has successfully supported its clients with quality custom marketing incentives, corporate recognition programs, and company store programs.

# # #


Thursday, November 6th, 2008

Best of Stocking Stuffer Golf Gifts: The Dipper –The World’s Most Compact Golf Ball Retriever

WALPOLE, MASS., November 6, 2008 – This season’s greatest stocking stuffer of all golf gifts may also be the most compact – it’s The Dipper™, the world’s most compact golf ball retriever, from http://www.dippergolf.com/.

Designed for discretion, The Dipper Golf Ball Retriever’s small size makes it ideal for golfers who don’t want to carry a bulky, unsightly ball retriever in their bag. The small, yet sturdy accessory clips to the shaft of a bladed club and extends from its small stored size to over 12 inches – for the retrieval of once-lost golf balls from ponds, creeks and wetlands. Figuring the cost savings in balls, as golf gifts go, The Dipper is one that “keeps on giving.”


When collapsed for storage, The Dipper is only 7 inches long and weighs less than 3 ounces — for easy concealment in the pocket of a golf bag – making it one of only a few golf accessories that you’d rather have out of sight until it’s needed.

The Dipper is constructed of sturdy aircraft aluminum and high impact-plastic, the patented compact ball retriever is durable and rust proof. It also features an integrated groove cleaning tool. The Dipper is available green, yellow, and black. Priced at just $12.95, The Dipper is one of the season’s most affordable, gift-friendly golf accessories.

For large orders, The Dipper can be branded with a logo and discounts are available. The Dipper Golf Ball Retriever is also perfect for use as golf tournament gifts.

To buy, or for more information, visit http://www.dippergolf.com/, email: dippergolf@trmiller.com, or call 1-508-850-7610.

About T R Miller Co., Inc.
The Dipper™ compact golf ball retriever is presented by T R Miller Co., Inc. Founded in 1975, T R Miller Co., Inc. is an industry leader in custom promotional merchandise. Based in Walpole, Massachusetts, the company designs and sells sports and corporate promotional products to businesses, organizations, and consumers around the world.

# # #

Public Relations contact: Tiziani Whitmyre Inc., http://www.tizinc.com/

post to del.icio.us

Technorati tags: , , , , ,


Wednesday, July 30th, 2008

Creating a Healthy Home Environment: Mold and Mildew Free

Atlanta, Georgia – July 30, 2008 – Each summer, as temperature and humidity rise, mold invades thousands of homes. Some 10% of the U.S. population is sensitive to mold, and invisible mold spores cause countless allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and sinus infections, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.

Mold also wreaks havoc on building materials. In nature, mold breaks down decaying organic matter, but in a home, it can decompose floors, walls, and other structures.

Fortunately, mold growth can be controlled. “The key to mold control is moisture control,” says Steven Hong, home health specialist and president of Sylvane.com.

Hong offers the following tips for creating a healthy home environment that’s mold and mildew free:

Detecting Mold

  • Recognize Visible Mold – Mold grows in damp, dark environments. Commonly found in bathrooms and basements, it’s usually slimy or fuzzy in appearance, and its color may be green, black, orange, or purple.
  • Be Aware of Hidden Mold – Mold can grow behind walls and wallpaper, above ceiling tiles, and under sinks. If you notice a musty odor in a particular room, it’s likely coming from hidden mold. You can check for mold with a Mold Test Kit.

Preventing Mold

  • Clean Up Spills Immediately – If you have a spill, leak, or any kind of water damage in your home, clean and dry out the area immediately. Mold starts growing within 24-48 hours.
  • Keep Indoor Humidity LowDehumidifiers keep the humidity low by removing excess moisture from the air. Keep your home’s relative humidity below 50% to prevent mold growth.
  • Protect Your Basement – Basements are notorious for mold and mildew. Use a basement dehumidifier to prevent mold and mildew growth.
  • Defend Your Crawlspace – Crawlspaces are dark and damp – ideal environments for mold. Place a plastic vapor barrier on open earth to reduce moisture. Many crawlspaces require a crawlspace dehumidifier to keep the mold at bay.

Cleaning Up Mold

  • Carefully Clean Visible Mold – If you see visible mold growth, carefully clean it up with water and detergent. It’s impossible to completely remove mold from a porous surface such as drywall; this material will have to be removed and discarded.
  • Protect Yourself While Cleaning – The Environmental Protection Agency recommends wearing an N-95 respirator mask, gloves, and goggles while cleaning mold. Black mold or toxic mold (usually found in buildings with severe water damage) produces dangerous toxins that can cause neurological symptoms and even death. If you encounter extensive mold growth, or if you suspect that it may be toxic mold, contact a mold remediation professional.

“Indoor mold is a major cause of sinus infections, allergies, and asthma attacks, not to mention structural damage to buildings,” says Hong. “But if you control your home’s humidity, then mold doesn’t stand a chance.”

Sylvane.com is a leading online supplier of dehumidifiers and other products for creating a healthy, safe and comfortable home environment.

# # #

Public Relations contact: Tiziani Whitmyre Inc., http://www.tizinc.com/

bookmark to del.icio.us

Technorati tags: , , , , , , , , , , , ,


Tuesday, July 22nd, 2008

Join the conversation on teaching quality

The National Commission on Teaching and America’s Future (NCTAF) has launched its new blog, the “NCTAF Learning Network.”

Join in the conversation on teaching quality and how to build a 21st century education system.
The first entry provides an introduction about the focus of the blog.
Subsequent entries will address many of the topics featured at the 2008 NCTAF Symposium, including teacher preparation, rewarding teaching careers, strong learning communities and authentic standards and assessments.
At the “NCTAF Learning Network,” leave comments, suggest topics, share best practices and learn from teaching professionals and colleagues across the country.

# # #

Public Relations contact: Tiziani Whitmyre Inc., http://www.tizinc.com/

post to del.icio.us

Technorati tags: , , , ,


Industry PR is proudly powered by WordPress.
WordPress