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Advanced TrimWright Announces New Commercial Division

Advanced TrimWright, Inc. (ATW), a leading fabricator of PVC products based in Taunton, MA recently announced a new Commercial Division to specifically cater to the construction needs of office building, retail and restaurant owners.

ATW has been catering to homeowners throughout the Massachusetts and Rhode Island area for years, and now the company offers their high quality exterior trim products to businesses on the East Coast through their Commercial Division.

Custom Capabilities

The company also offers custom products. ATW helps contractors, builders, architects and business owners solve unique design problems. If the right product doesn’t exist, ATW’s experienced team, with state-of-the-art CAD capabilities and superior craftsmanship, can produce a custom solution.

Businesses can save time during construction with the installation of ATW’s exterior window trim which can be “popped in” within minutes. The core material for all ATW exterior trim products is white solid cellular polyvinyl chloride (PVC) manufactured to stringent ATW specifications. The company’s trademark is a blend of innovative product designs precisely machined to a superior fit and finish. ATW’s superior products combine old-world craftsmanship with 21st Century innovations to withstand the ravages of the elements and the test of time. Best of all, every product is manufactured in the USA.

All of ATW’s finished exterior trim products and custom accessories complement a building’s character while protecting the owner’s investment.   In addition to window trim, ATW’s extensive line of PVC products include: column wraps, cornerboards, fluted casing, entry trim, beadboard, gutters, soffits, rakes, moulding, fascias, trim board and rail.

For more information, visit http://www.AdvancedTrimWright.com or contact ATW’s Commercial Division at 508-822-7745.

About the Company

Founded in 2003, Advanced TrimWright, Inc. (ATW) creates exterior trim products and accessories that stand up to the ravages of sea, salt, and wind. All ATW products are manufactured in the USA and combine traditional old-world craftsmanship with 21st Century innovations to create superior products from 100 percent ATW PVC Trimboard, which is impervious to moisture and insects, yet looks and feels like real wood.

Bond&Fill, LLC, the sister company of ATW, provides a superior line of adhesives and sealants specially formulated to bond, fill and repair exterior or interior PVC trim, vinyl, and aluminum products. Through their commitment to research, design, and innovation, Bond&Fill, LLC continues to expand its high performance product line which includes: Bond&Fill Structural, Bond&Fill Flex and Bond&Fill For Painters.

ATW and Bond&Fill, LLC is located at 250 Cape Highway (Route 44) in East Taunton, MA. Their headquarters is comprised of a 40,000 square foot plant and a 3,000 square foot executive office space and showroom.

For more information about ATW or Bond&Fill Inc., call 508-822-7745 or visit their websites at advancedtrimwright.com and bondfill.com.

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Rodman & Rodman CPA Advises Businesses of New Sales Tax Impact on Accounting, POS Systems

Governor Patrick recently signed legislation that increases the sales and use tax rate and makes other tax changes that may significantly impact businesses.

Rodman & Rodman, P.C. Certified Public Accountants and Business Strategists, have outlined the tax provisions that take effect August 1, 2009 that may affect accounting systems, cash registers or POS systems of businesses.

· The sales and use tax rate is increased to 6.25 percent from 5 percent.

· The local excise tax rate that cities or towns, except Boston, may impose on the transfer of occupancy of any room in a bed and breakfast, hotel, lodging house or motel located in the city is increased to up to 6 percent of the total amount of rent for such occupancy. The rate for Boston is raised to 6.5 percent.

· The tax exemption for sales of alcoholic beverages is eliminated.

· The new legislation authorizes cities and towns to impose an additional local sales tax on restaurant meals. This legislation is effective October 1, 2009. Specific jurisdictions will enact this new tax, so be sure to check with your accountant.

“To address these changes, businesses may need to update their accounting system, cash registers or POS systems. In addition, many businesses may want to finalize major purchases subject to sales and use tax prior to August 1 to take advantage of the lower rate,” according to Tom Astore, CPA, JD, Tax Manager at Rodman & Rodman (http://www.rodmancpa.com)

For more information about the new sales and use tax provisions, contact Rodman & Rodman at (617) 965-5959.

Rodman & Rodman, P.C.

Founded in 1961, Rodman & Rodman, P.C. provides accounting, tax and business services to small and medium-sized companies throughout New England. With a focus on strategic planning, Rodman & Rodman goes beyond traditional accounting services and takes a proactive approach when serving clients to increase, preserve and sustain clients’ financial net worth.

From business valuations, taxation, audits, fraud detection and prevention services and succession planning to a variety of accounting IT services including software selection, implementation and training, the team at Rodman & Rodman serves as comprehensive advisors to clients. For individual clients, the company offers personal advisory services such as planning for real estate transactions, obtaining financing, estate planning and retirement planning as well as planning for college education. Rodman & Rodman Certified Public Accountants are located at 3 Newton Executive Park in Newton and 25 Braintree Hill Office Park in Braintree, Mass. For more information, visit their website at www.rodmancpa.com or contact (617) 965-5959.

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Boot Camp for New Dads Educates Fathers about Postpartum Depression

According to Postpartum Support International, one in eight women suffer from a postpartum mood disorder. New dads (and veteran dads) should know the difference between the Baby Blues and Postpartum Depression (PPD). Oftentimes, these disorders go undiagnosed because a new mother’s support system, typically the husband/partner, does not know what to look for and where to go to get help.

Working with more than 200,000 new dads over the past 19 years, Boot Camp for New Dads (http://www.bcnd.org), a non-profit orientation program for fathers-to-be, operating in more than 260 hospitals, clinics, schools, fire stations and churches around North America and internationally, advises new fathers to watch for signs of PPD in mom and offers tips on how to recognize it.

Postpartum depression is not selective. It can affect any woman who is pregnant, has had a baby or who has miscarried. It’s important that when new mothers begin to experience such symptoms that they get help immediately. A new mother’s mental health is very important to not only herself but her baby and family. Get professional help for mom immediately. Talk to an experienced counselor or your physician.

Baby blues or postpartum? Boot Camp for New Dads advises dads of several signs that indicate the more serious PPD:

· Self-esteem issues – Mom may have very negative feelings about herself. She may think she is worthless, unattractive or a bad mother. If she does feel this way, a simple “pep talk” is not going to help.

· Constant fatigue – It’s a fact that when the baby arrives, mom probably won’t get as much sleep as she needs. One of the signs to watch for is constant fatigue, even upon waking. Fatigue is a symptom of depression.

· Weight loss or weight gain – Yes, while some moms lose a little of the pregnancy weight within the first few months after birth, other moms stay the same weight. Significant weight loss from a lack of appetite or weight gain from overeating is sign that something is wrong.

· Crying often – Mom’s occasional crying is normal as her hormones fluctuate and she has difficulty getting that extra, much needed rest. But, crying every day and/or more than once a day is a red flag.

· Disinterest — When mom is not interested in herself, her baby, family or other activities, it’s an indication that something is wrong.

· Mood swings – Similar to a roller coaster ride, mood swings are extreme changes in mood. Mom’s joyfulness immediately followed by sadness and despair are not healthy moods.

· Being afraid of hurting the baby or herself – If mom is afraid of hurting the baby or herself, get medical attention immediately.

According to Greg Bishop, founder of Boot Camp for New Dads and active Boot Camp coach, “Many new moms experience the baby blues, which can include symptoms of crying and mood swings, restlessness and fatigue that lasts for a few hours to a few weeks after delivery. PPD doesn’t always happen immediately after birth. It can take hold months after the baby is born and moms usually experience exaggerated symptoms of the baby blues. PPD is a serious condition that can affect any mom – whether she’s just given birth to her first child or fifth. PPD may be attributed to changes in hormone levels, the stress of a new baby, lack of sleep or a combination of things. It’s important to know how to recognize the signs of the condition because moms with PPD will not get well without professional help.”

Katherine Stone Alliance

In an effort to reach and educate more men about PPD and what they can do; Boot Camp for New Dads is working with Katherine Stone, a nationally-recognized, award-winning advocate for women with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and author of Postpartum Progress. Boot Camp will be working with Stone in the development of a new section on the bcnd.org website that is dedicated to PPD, as well as collaborating with Postpartum Support International on their website.

Fatherhood Books Serve as a “Play by Play” Guides

Greg Bishop offers strategies from more than 200,000 new dads that have gone through the Boot Camp for New Dads program in both of his books, Crash Course for New Dads: Tools, Checklists and Cheat Sheets and his first book, Hit the Ground Crawling, which covers work balance, being a dad, caring for a new mom and much more. Both books are available online at www.DadsAdventure.com.

New Dads Learn What to Expect at Boot Camp Workshops

Dads-to-be will be better equipped to face the challenges and opportunities of fatherhood after attending a Boot Camp “hands on” educational workshop. Men attend the class when they are expecting their first baby, and are joined in the workshop by “veterans” who had previously attended and have returned with their two to four-month-old baby in tow. They are able to give the dads-to-be a realistic idea of what to do and what to expect when their first baby comes. For many men attending, it’s their first time holding a baby.

Boot Camp for New Dads

Now celebrating their 19th year, Boot Camp for New Dads is nationally acclaimed as the “Best Practice” for preparing men to be fathers and has been named a U.S. Navy Model Program. Boot Camp for New Dads has prepared more than 200,000 men for fatherhood over the years.

With more than 4.1 million births (National Center for Health Statistics), and approximately 1.5 million men becoming new dads every year, it’s more important than ever for fathers to realize that being a “good provider” is only part of the very central role they have in their children’s lives.

For more information about Boot Camp for New Dads, visit www.bcnd.org, or to visit Dads Adventure, go to www.Dadsadventure.com. To arrange an interview with Greg Bishop, please contact sdubin@prworkzone.com, (781) 582-1061.

National and International Locations

Boot Camp For New Dads locations include ALASKA (Anchorage); ARIZONA (Chandler, Flagstaff, Gilbert, Mesa, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Sun City); ARKANSAS (Jonesboro, Paragould, Springdale); CALIFORNIA (Apple Valley, Bakersfield, , Fresno, Garden Grove, Irvine, Laguna Hills, Madera, Merced, Mission Hills, , Oakland, Orange, Pomona, Port Hueneme, San Diego, Santa Ana, Santa Barbara, , S. Lake Tahoe, Travis, Valley Springs); COLORADO (Aurora, Boulder, Colorado Springs, Denver, Durango, Fort Collins, Fort Carson, Greeley, Longmont, Thornton, Wheat Ridge); CONNECTICUT (Bristol, Danbury, New London); FLORIDA (Brandon, Clearwater, Hollywood, Jacksonville, North Palm Beach, Orlando, St. Petersburg, West Palm Beach, Sarasota, Tampa); GEORGIA (Atlanta, Elberton, Gainesville, Marietta, Savannah); HAWAII (Pearl Harbor, Schofield); ILLINOIS (Aurora, Carbondale, Champaign, Chicago, East St. Louis, Evanston, Freeport, Geneva, Great Lakes, Highland Park, Libertyville, Moline, Oak Park, Rockford, Springfield, Urbana, Winfield); INDIANA (Anderson, Bluffton, Hammond, Indianapolis, Jeffersonville, Kokomo); IOWA (Cedar Rapids, Des Moines, Jefferson, Sioux City); KANSAS (Junction City, Topeka); KENTUCKY (Paducah); LOUISIANA (Covington); MAINE (Auburn, Augusta, Bangor, Brunswick, Ellsworth, Waterville); MARYLAND (Annapolis) MASSACHUSETTS (Beverly, Ipswich, Lowell, Nantucket, Plymouth, Weymouth, Springfield); MICHIGAN (, Ann Arbor, Bay City, Centreville, Iron Mountain, Ithaca, Kalamazoo, Niles, St Joseph, Ypsilanti); MINNESOTA (Brainerd, Duluth, Robbinsdale); MISSISSIPPI (Tupelo); MISSOURI (Jefferson City) MONTANA (Billings, Helena, Miles City); NEBRASKA (Kearney, Lincoln, Omaha); NEVADA (Las Vegas) NEW HAMPSHIRE (Manchester, Portsmouth); NEW JERSEY (Princeton) NEW YORK (Glens Falls, Little Falls, Mineola, Rome, Utica); NORTH CAROLINA (Burlington, Chapel Hill, Charlotte, Concord, Ft. Bragg, Greensboro, Monroe, Raleigh, Shelby); NORTH DAKOTA (Grand Forks); OHIO (Akron, Cleveland, Columbus, East Cleveland, East Liverpool, Garfield Heights, Lima, Lorain, Mayfield Heights, Middleburg Heights, Orange Village, Portsmouth, Toledo, Warren, Westlake, Youngstown); OKLAHOMA (Claremore, Oklahoma City, Tulsa); OREGON (Corvalis, McMinnville, Salem, Silverton); SOUTH CAROLINA (Columbia, Pickens, Walhalla); TENNESSEE (Chattanooga, Knoxville, Memphis); TEXAS (Amarillo, Dallas, Fort Hood, Longview, Lubbock, Plano, San Antonio, Texarkana, Waco, Webster); VERMONT (Barre, Brattleboro, Middlebury); VIRGINIA (Charlottesville, Chesapeake, Hampton, Richmond) WASHINGTON (Everett, Fairchild AFB, Longview, Olympia, Puyallup, Yakima); WEST VIRGINIA (Wheeling); WISCONSIN (Florence, Green Bay, Madison, Oshkosh, Watertown, Wausau); JAPAN (Atsugi, Yokosuka), ITALY (Sicily); UNITED KINGDOM [a.k.a. Hit the Ground Crawling] (Birmingham, Liverpool)

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Old Colony Elder Services Advises Elders on How to Avoid Heat Related Illnesses and Stay Cool this Summer

When the temperature rises, older adults are at high risk for heat related illnesses.  Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), a private, non-profit agency that provides seniors, families and caregivers with valuable resources and services, offers tips to help elders stay cool this summer.

· Avoid strenuous activity or over-exertion in the heat. Even household chores such as laundry, vacuuming, gardening, mowing the lawn, painting and so forth should be put off until the weather cools.

· Avoid extended periods of sun exposure. If you must be in the sun, wear a hat, sunscreen and sunglasses and bring an umbrella to create shade.

· Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages.

· Eat well-balanced, light meals. Try to avoid high protein foods as they will increase metabolic heat.

· Wear lightweight, loose and light colored clothing.

· When it’s hot or very humid, stay indoors in an air-conditioned area or near a fan.

· Go to a place where you can get relief from the heat such as a library, theater or community area that has air-conditioning.

Avoid heat related illnesses

In extreme heat and high humidity, evaporation of perspiration is slowed and the body must work extra hard to maintain normal temperature. Heat related illnesses include heat cramps which are muscular pains and spasms in the abdominal or leg muscles caused by loss of water due to heavy sweating. To treat heat cramps – rest in a cool place and drink half a glass of cool water every fifteen minutes.

Heat exhaustion is when the body overheats in high temperatures and/or high humidity, causing a form of mild shock. A rapid pulse, intense sweating, nausea, headache, dark urine, pale and/or flushed skin and feeling faint are some of the symptoms of heat exhaustion. To treat it, get the person to a cooler place and apply cool, wet cloths to the face and body. Have the person drink cool water slowly every fifteen minutes. Watch the person carefully for signs of heat stroke.

Heatstroke occurs when the body’s temperature reaches 104 degrees Fahrenheit or above. It is severe and life-threatening. It’s typically caused by exertion in hot weather and dehydration. Some signs of heatstroke include rapid heartbeat, hot red skin, absence of sweating, dizziness, headache, nausea, irritability or confusion. Older adults may also experience fainting. If any of these symptoms are suspected, call 911 immediately. Then move the person to a cooler place, immerse in a cool bath or wrap him/her in wet sheets. Watch for breathing problems. If he/she has changes is levels of consciousness, refuses water or is vomiting, do not give him/her anything to eat or drink.

OCES has resources available to elders in their service area who meet the criteria for low income and who cannot afford fans or air-conditioning. For assistance or more information, call (508) 584-1561.

OCES serves elders, their families and caregivers in the towns of Abington, Avon, Bridgewater, Brockton, Carver, Duxbury, East Bridgewater, Easton, Halifax, Hanover, Hanson, Kingston, Lakeville, Marshfield, Middleboro, Pembroke, Plymouth, Plympton, Rockland, Stoughton, Wareham, West Bridgewater and Whitman.

For more information about services for seniors or if you know an elderly person (e.g., family, friend, neighbor) who you think might need assistance, contact OCES at 508-584-1561.

About OCES
Incorporated in 1974, Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) is one of 27 private, non-profit Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

The organization’s mission is to provide services that support the dignity and independence of elders by helping them maximize their quality of life; live safely and in good health; and, prevent unnecessary or premature institutionalization.

The agency has 130 employees and operates more than 12 programs serving elders, their families and caregivers.  For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit the website at www.oldcolonyelderservices.org.

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RI and MA participants in HIN1 (Swine) Flu vaccine studies to receive vaccinations early.

DATELINE: WARWICK, RI…
The race is on to find the most effective H1N1 (Swine) flu vaccine in time for inoculations this fall. As part of this effort, Omega Medical Research in Warwick, Rhode Island has announced that it will be conducting several investigational HIN1 Flu vaccine studies starting in August to assist in the development of a safe and effective vaccine.

On June 11, 2009 the World Health Organization (WHO) raised the worldwide pandemic alert level to Phase 6 in response to the ongoing spread of the novel influenza A (H1N1) virus commonly known as Swine Flu. WHO stated, “The 2009 influenza pandemic has spread internationally with unprecedented speed. In past pandemics, influenza viruses have needed more than six months to spread as widely as the new H1N1 virus has spread in less than six weeks.”

David L. Fried, MD, the medical director for Omega Medical Research, and the Principal Investigator on investigational HIN1 Flu vaccine studies to be conducted at the center, stressed the urgency of this undertaking, “At this time, the best preventative measure to avoid H1N1 is to receive vaccination and immunization.  Omega Medical Research is conducting one of the few studies in the country that provides the initial vaccine to volunteers who participate in this important study.”

Recent comments from Dr. Anne Schuchat, director of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases at the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) indicate that the virus is not going away and that the 2009 H1N1 virus patterns are quite different from seasonal influenza, “This virus is continuing to cause illness here in the U.S. even in the summer and continues to affect a generally younger population than what we see in terms of the seasonal influenza.”

Schuchat continued, “We do expect there to be an increase in influenza that occurs this fall, perhaps earlier than what we see with seasonal influenza. In particular, we think there may be challenges when people return to schools and our communities get back into the sort of the regular times with lots of kids congregated together.”

This spring several Rhode Island schools closed temporarily due to H1N1 (Swine) flu concerns including the Greystone Elementary School in North Providence, North Kingstown High School, and the Pier Middle School in Narragansett. In Southeastern Massachusetts the Assawompsett Elementary School in Lakeville and the Mary Fonseca Elementary School in Fall River both closed temporarily this spring due to H1N1 (Swine) flu outbreaks. To date, 2 H1N1 (Swine) flu deaths have been confirmed in Rhode Island and 6 deaths in Massachusetts.

Residents of Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts who would like to participate in Omega Medical Research’s investigational HIN1 Flu vaccine studies should contact Patty Feole, RN at 401-739-3573 as soon as possible. Volunteers are needed in four age groups: 6 to 35 months; 2 years to 17 years; 18 years to 64 years; and 65 years and older. Study participants will receive compensation for their time and travel to Omega Medical Research, which is conveniently located near Routes 295 and 95 in Warwick, Rhode Island.

Clinical Research Center of Excellence
Omega Medical Research, founded in 1993, is a nationally recognized clinical research center providing accurate, efficient, and high quality clinical trials services to the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and medical device industries. Omega Medical Research is located at 400 Bald Hill Road in Warwick, RI, conveniently adjacent to Routes 295 and 95. Their hours of operation are: Monday 7:30am-4:30pm, Tuesday 7:30am-4:30pm, Wednesday 7:30am-5:30pm, Thursday 7:30am-4:30pm, and Friday 8:00am-2:00pm.

Omega Medical Research has extensive experience with vaccine protocols and is a member of the Alliance for Multispecialty Research (AMR), a unique network of independently owned, geographically diverse, and highly experienced Clinical Research Centers of Excellence. Membership in AMR is by invitation only and is the culmination of a rigorous review and acceptance process.

For additional information please contact Patty Feole, RN at 401-739-3573, or visit www.omegastudies.com.

RI and MA participants in HIN1 (Swine) Flu vaccine studies to receive vaccinations early.Read More

On a map quest…Resort Maps to produce “Best of Dennis-Harwich” map, advertising opportunities available.

CAPE COD, MASSACHUSETTS AND WAITSFIELD, VERMONT…

Resort Maps, creator of more than 90 customized travel maps across the United States, England and Puerto Rico, recently began work on the first edition of a map of Dennis-Harwich, Massachusetts.  The Best of Dennis-Harwich Resort Map will also feature the towns of Brewster, Harwich Port and Dennis Port. Resort Maps are colorful, hand-drawn maps of resort towns and cities, free to area visitors. 

The creation of this new map will show what the area has to offer by highlighting local attractions, restaurants, accommodations, retail shops, real estate and other services in the greater Dennis-Harwich area. Each advertiser on the map is represented with a display ad surrounding the perimeter of the map, including a color-coded grid locator and their actual building drawn, highlighted and labeled, making it easy to locate. 

These same colorful maps can be found on-line at www.resortmaps.com. Here you will find interactive maps of all 90+ resort areas to choose from. These interactive maps allow the viewer to read a description of each business as they scroll over each building and to connect to the website of the business for further information. 

“The Cape has always been a popular destination for tourists and it’s become an even greater draw as people stay closer to home during their vacations,” said Gerry Pelissier, Resort Maps franchise owner. “The new Dennis-Harwich map offers a real treasure trove of things to do for people vacationing in the area or just down for a day or two. Our free ‘souvenir style’ maps can be found not only at the local advertisers’ shops but also at many non-advertiser locations throughout the Cape area.”

For information on how to advertise on the upcoming Dennis – Harwich map, you can call franchise owner Gerry Pelissier at 508-681-9804 or email at gerryp@resortmaps.com.

Resort Maps began creating and publishing maps in the northeastern U.S. back in 1986. In an effort to continue the company’s growth and simultaneously maintain the quality of the product, Resort Maps became a franchisor in 1993. Since adopting the franchise model, Resort Maps has grown steadily to more than 90 maps distributed across 20 states as well as towns and cities in England and Puerto Rico.

“We publish over 20 million maps per year in more than 90 cities and towns for a good reason. Our maps are fun, easy-to-read and they really do make you want to stop and see some of the local attractions before heading to the next part of your trip. Our advertisers like them for that very same reason,” said Peter Hans, president of Resort Maps.

For more information on Resort Maps or to inquire about ownership of a Resort Maps franchise, please visit www.resortmaps.com or call 802-496-6277.

About Resort Maps

Headquartered in the Green Mountains of Vermont, Resort Maps has been creating and publishing advertising maps in the northeastern U.S. since 1986. In 1993, Resort Maps expanded its reach by creating a franchise model for distribution of its colorful, hand-drawn maps of resort towns and cities. Today, that network of franchises has grown to over 90 Resort Maps in publication in the US and the UK, with several more in the process of being published. More than 20 million Resort Maps will be printed and distributed in 2009.

For more information on Resort Maps and/or the franchise opportunity, visit www.resortmaps.com or call 802-496-6277.

Resort Maps franchises serve cities and towns in California (Carmel, Monterey), Colorado (Boulder, Breckenridge, Cherry Creek, Colorado Springs, Denver, Eagle River, Estes Park, Fort Collins, Summit County), Delaware (Bethany Beach, Rehoboth Beach), Florida (Clearwater Beach and Gulf Beaches, Cocoa Beach, Daytona Beach, Melbourne, New Smyrna Beach, St. Augustine, Tarpon Springs), Georgia (Savannah/Tybee Island), Maine (Bar Harbor/Acadia, Boothbay region, Camden-Rockland, Kennebunkport, Kittery, Portland, York-Ogunquit), , Maryland (Annapolis, Eastern Shore, Ocean City,  Solomons Island, St. Mary’s County), Massachusetts (Berkshires, Chatham-Orleans, Falmouth, Hyannis-Yarmouth, Martha’s Vineyard, Newburyport, Plymouth, Sturbridge, Worcester), Michigan (Traverse City), New Hampshire (Franconia/Notch Region, Hampton Beach, Hanover/Lebanon , Keene, Lakes Region, Mount Washington Valley, Portsmouth), New Jersey (Barnegat Bay, Cape May, Hoboken/Jersey City, Hunterdon, Lambertville , Long Beach Island, Ocean Grove, Point Pleasant, Princeton, Sandy Hook), New York ( The Hamptons, Lake George , Lake Placid, Saratoga Springs), North Carolina (Asheville, Brunswick County, Hendersonville , Outer Banks, Salisbury and Rowan County, Sandhills, Wilmington,), Pennsylvania (Bucks County, Chestnut Hill, Delaware River Valley, Gettysburg, The Main Line), Rhode Island (Newport, Providence), South Carolina (Charleston, Hilton Head, Myrtle Beach), Tennessee (Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge), and Vermont (Addison County/Brandon, Barre/Montpelier, Burlington, Killington/Rutland, Mad River Valley, Manchester, Mount Snow, Okemo, Smugglers’ Notch, Stowe, Waterbury/Richmond, Woodstock/Quechee) —as well as towns and cities in England (Chicester, Lewes) and Puerto Rico (Vieques, Culebra).

On a map quest…Resort Maps to produce “Best of Dennis-Harwich” map, advertising opportunities available.Read More

Coneco Engineers, Scientists and Surveyors hires Kevin McHugh for civil engineering division.

BRIDGEWATER, MA and LOWELL, MA… 

Bridgewater, Mass.-based Coneco Engineers and Scientists, Inc. recently announced the hiring of Kevin McHugh as senior civil engineer for its civil engineering division. Working out of Coneco’s Lowell, Massachusetts office, McHugh will lead civil engineering and survey projects and continue to expand Coneco’s share in the municipal and energy markets.

“Kevin has been a great hire for our organization and we’re positively delighted to have someone with his expertise as one of our senior engineers,” said Rick Lincoln, president of Coneco.

Prior to joining Coneco, McHugh worked for Environmental Partners Group, Inc. Some of McHugh’s previous work experiences included:

·         All aspects of municipal stormwater related projects, including community assistance with the EPA’s MS4 Phase II Stormwater Permit program.

·         Municipal solid waste permitting, design and construction management, as well as long-term operation and maintenance.

·         Private and public site development.

·         Project permitting, including MEPA, Chapter 91, Wetland Protection Act, and Army Corps.

·         Wastewater collection system design and construction management.

·         Remedial system design, construction and operation.

·         Hazardous waste compliance planning

“Coneco has a long track record of innovative and cost-effective management and design solutions for residential, commercial, industrial, and municipal clients. I’m excited  to be a part of the civil team as we strive to continue Coneco’s reputation for excellence,” said McHugh.

A resident of Lynnfield, Massachusetts, McHugh holds a Master of Science degree in Environmental Engineering from Northeastern University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from Technical University of Nova Scotia. He’s a registered Professional Engineer in Massachusetts and is OSHA-certified.

For more information the full scope of services provided by Coneco Engineers, & Scientists, Inc., please visit http://www.coneco.com.

About Coneco Engineers, Scientists and Surveyors

Established in 1989, Coneco Engineers & Scientists, Incorporated was founded on the premise that providing innovative and cost effective management and design solutions is the most successful way to achieve the goals of our residential, commercial, industrial and municipal clients. With more than 40 professionals on staff with expertise in the areas of civil engineering, environmental consulting, geothermal and surveying, Coneco remains committed to understanding regulatory changes and technological advances in order to meet the ever-changing needs of its clients and their projects.

For more information, please visit www.coneco.com or call 800-548-3355.

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Staycations…A trend here to stay.

WAITSFIELD, VERMONT…

Extended stay vacations are one casualty of the current recession. But many families have found a more cost-effective way to spend their vacations while having just as much fun. How, you might ask. By going on a “staycation”.

Loosely defined, a staycation refers to a vacation spent at home where, instead of going away, you do short day trips—typically within three hours from your residence. The concept itself has enlightened many to the tourist “treasures” quite literally in their backyards. 

“We get so hung up on traveling to far away places that we really do overlook gems that are pretty close to home—like those places you might see in a brochure or flyer at a rest area while you’re traveling. A staycation makes it possible for you to schedule mini-vacations to those kind of places and keep your costs down,” said Peter Hans, president of Resort Maps, creator of customized travel maps in more than 90 cities and towns across the U.S. and U.K.

So, what can you do on your staycation? That’s the beauty of it, you can do anything. Some easy, low- cost ideas include:

·         Visit a local water park – In most parts of the country, you can find a water park within a three-hour drive of your home. Pack a picnic basket or, better yet, take some coals and barbecue. Many of these parks have barbies you can use.

·         Hike and picnic at a state or national park – Be a little daring and venture off to one you haven’t visited before.

·         Outdoor music or film festivals – Free outdoor concerts are in abundance during the summer. For many, you can just spread out a blanket or prop up a lawn chair. Also, more and more areas hold film festivals.

·         Foreign Cuisine Night – Maybe a trip to another county is not in the budget. A night out to sample some foreign cuisine can be the next best thing. For example, have a “Mexican night” at a nearby Mexican restaurant, “Indian night” at your local Indian establishment, etc. If you’ve never tried that kind of food, even better.

·         Museum Day – You’ve probably got several within a 45-minute drive from your home, yet how many times have you been to one of them? Take one day and hit as many museums as you can.

·         Family Game Night – Lest you think it’s mandatory to go somewhere for your staycation. Hosting a family game night can be fun and relaxing—whether it’s a Wii golf tournament or board game marathon.

·         Camp out in your backyard – Young kids especially will love the adventure of pitching a tent in the backyard.  Plus, you’ve got the conveniences of your home without the expense of a campsite.

Added Hans, “Staycations provide a viable alternative to a vacation, allowing similar adventures you might experience on a vacation without the big expense. Who knows, you may even like them better. Especially when you can put your head down on your own pillow at the end of the day.”

Resort Maps offer a number of ideas on possible local excursions for your staycation. Colorful, hand-drawn maps of resort cities and towns across 20 states, as well as parts of the UK, Resort Maps advertise restaurants, accommodations, retail stores, factory outlets, recreation and attractions, real estate and other local services. With landmarks prominently displayed on the maps, Resort Maps are an easy and fun way to find your way around town whether you are visiting, new to the area or you just want to know what’s happening around your town.

 For more information on Resort Maps or to inquire about ownership of a Resort Maps franchise, please visit www.resortmaps.com or call 802-496-6277.

About Resort Maps

Headquartered in the Green Mountains of Vermont, Resort Maps has been creating and publishing advertising maps in the northeastern U.S. since 1986. In 1993, Resort Maps expanded its reach by creating a franchise model for distribution of its colorful, hand-drawn maps of resort towns and cities. Today, that network of franchises grown to nearly 90 Resort Maps in publication in the US and the UK, with several more in the process of being published. Nearly 20 million Resort Maps will be printed and distributed in 2009.

For more information on Resort Maps the company and/or the franchise opportunity, visit www.resortmaps.com or call 802-496-6277.

Staycations…A trend here to stay.Read More

Got game? …Game rooms the latest indoor room to move to the great outdoors

CHICAGO, GURNEE, HOFFMAN ESTATES, NAPERVILLE, TINLEY PARK, IL …

People in the Midwest love the outdoors, perhaps because we’re forced inside all too often by the weather. So it’s no surprise we look for ways to spend even more time outside when the weather turns nicer. Case in point, another hot trend, outdoor game rooms.

According to the DirectBuy locations of greater Chicago, the leading home improvement and furnishings club with direct insider prices, covered patio areas have become a haven for pool, ping-pong and foosball tables in recent years. In fact, many manufacturers have started producing these tables with weather-resistant materials to accommodate this demand.

“Many people don’t have the space for a game room in their home, so converting a portion of your patio into one makes perfect sense, especially if you have tables that are made of weather-resistant materials,” said Dave Kushner, owner of DirectBuy of Hoffman Estates. “When you consider how many people have transformed their grill areas into ‘outdoor kitchens,’ adding a game room to the mix creates the ultimate outdoor ‘man cave.’”

In addition to billiards, ping-pong and foosball, you can also furnish your patio game room with game tables, so you can enjoy board games as well.

Besides being a fun place for grown ups, an outdoor game room provides a place for the kids to entertain while Mom and Dad can enjoy some semblance of peace and quiet inside. This can dramatically reduce the in-and-out traffic volume that can make an impression on your floors and carpets.

DirectBuy has everything you need to furnish your patio to suit your lifestyle – all at manufacturer-direct prices that can save up to 50% off. In addition, DirectBuy also employs product specialists who can provide helpful pointers on selecting the right equipment and setup for your home.

Since 1971, DirectBuy clubs have offered members the opportunity to enjoy enormous savings on home furnishings, home improvement items, entertainment and outdoor products and accessories by buying wholesale, directly from the manufacturer. With several convenient locations in the greater Chicago area (Chicago, Gurnee, Hoffman Estates, Naperville, and Tinley Park), consumers can enjoy a comfortable, country-club setting, where they finally have the financial control of buying direct.

For more information on a DirectBuy membership, you can visit http://www.directbuychicago.com/.

About DirectBuy

Since 1971, DirectBuy has helped hundreds of thousands of families enjoy a better quality of life, enabling them to buy directly from more than 700 manufacturers and their authorized suppliers. Buying direct makes members’ hard-earned money to go much further, while having the selection and choice not available at any retail store. Access to confidential prices, local suppliers, and unparalleled selection helps make members’ dream projects a reality.  It’s a comfortable, country-club setting, where you finally have the financial control of buying direct. The DirectBuy clubs serving the greater Chicago area are part of more than 160 locations throughout North America.

Consumers interested in becoming members may obtain a Visitor’s Pass to attend an Open House by visiting http://www.directbuychicago.com/. 

Locations of the DirectBuy clubs serving the greater Chicago area are: DirectBuy of Hoffman Estates, 2200 N. Stonington Ave Ste. 150 Hoffman Estates, IL; DirectBuy of Chicago North, 6325 Avondale, Chicago, IL; DirectBuy of DuPage County, 1864 Highgrove Ste. 136 Naperville, IL; DirectBuy of Lake County, 3900 Washington Street, Unit K, Gurnee, IL; and DirectBuy of Tinley Park, 18400 S. 76th Avenue Ste. B, Tinley Park, IL.

To learn more about the superior value and benefits of a DirectBuy membership, visit www.directbuycares.com.

Got game? …Game rooms the latest indoor room to move to the great outdoorsRead More