ABA survey shows customers value overdraft service

WASHINGTON  (Profitable.com)  A new survey shows 46 percent of bank customers report they did – or will – opt in to their bank’s overdraft program, saying they are willing to pay a fee for the service to ensure that debit card transactions will be approved even if their account is overdrawn. The survey was conducted by Ipsos-Reid, an independent market research firm, which polled more than 1,000 adults by telephone on August 14 and 15, 2010.

On August 15, 2010, new federal regulations went into effect requiring banks to get permission from customers before paying debit card overdrafts and charging a fee for the service. Previously, no permission was required. Customers who do not opt in for overdraft protection may have one-time debit card transactions or ATM withdrawals declined if their account is overdrawn. The new rules do not affect checks or automatic bill payments.

Survey respondents were informed that banks can no longer charge a fee for covering overdrafts when they use a debit card unless the customer tells the bank in advance that they want overdraft protection and are willing to pay a fee for the service. They were also informed that if they did not choose to opt in for overdraft protection, their transactions could be denied if their account was overdrawn. They were then asked whether, based on that knowledge, they will choose – or did choose – to have overdraft protection.

The results showed:

• 46 percent of bank customers said they did – or will – opt in for overdraft coverage;
• 49 percent of bank customers said they did not opt in for overdraft coverage;
• Five percent of bank customers did not know or were unsure of their decision.
• The margin of error was plus or minus three percent.

“These results show that many bank customers value debit card overdraft protection and are willing to pay for the service,” said Nessa Feddis, ABA vice president and retail banking expert. “They are now in the driver’s seat and control the way their accounts are managed.”

METHODOLOGY: For the survey, a nationally representative sample of 1,010 randomly-selected adults aged 18 and over residing in the U.S. was interviewed by telephone via Ipsos’ U.S. Telephone Express omnibus. With a sample of this size, the results are considered accurate within ±3.1 percentage points, 19 times out of 20, of what they would have been had the entire population of adults in the U.S. been polled. The margin of error will be larger within regions and for other sub-groupings of the survey population. These data were weighted to ensure the sample’s regional and age/gender composition reflects that of the actual U.S. population according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

Same-store sales and customer traffic levels remained negative in July; Restaurant operators are less optimistic about growth in the months ahead

Washington, D.C.  (Profitable.com)  As a result of soft sales and traffic levels and a deteriorating outlook among restaurant operators, the National Restaurant Association’s comprehensive index of restaurant activity remained essentially flat in July.  The Association’s Restaurant Performance Index (RPI) – a monthly composite index that tracks the health of and outlook for the U.S. restaurant industry – stood at 99.4 in July, down 0.1 percent from June and its fourth consecutive decline.  In addition, the RPI stood below 100 for the third consecutive month, which signifies contraction in the index of key industry indicators.

“While there were signs in recent months that the short-term outlook may be improving, the latest figures indicate that the restaurant industry’s recovery has yet to fully gain traction,” said Hudson Riehle, senior vice president of the Research and Knowledge Group for the National Restaurant Association.  “Restaurant operators continued to report declines in same-store sales and customer traffic in July, and their previously-optimistic outlook for sales growth and the economy softened in recent months.”

Watch a video of Riehle providing an industry update on the June RPI and how tourism drives restaurant sales growth.

The RPI is constructed so that the health of the restaurant industry is measured in relation to a steady-state level of 100.  Index values above 100 indicate that key industry indicators are in a period of expansion, and index values below 100 represent a period of contraction for key industry indicators.  The RPI consists of two components, the Current Situation Index and the Expectations Index.

The Current Situation Index, which measures current trends in four industry indicators (same-store sales, traffic, labor and capital expenditures), stood at 98.8 in July – unchanged from its June level.  In addition, the Current Situation Index remained below 100 for the 35th consecutive month, which signifies contraction in the current situation indicators. 

Restaurant operators reported negative same-store sales for the fourth consecutive month in July, with the overall results similar to the June performance.  Thirty-nine percent of restaurant operators reported a same-store sales gain between July 2009 and July 2010, matching the proportion of operators who reported higher sales in June.  Meanwhile, 44 percent of operators reported a same-store sales decline in July, compared to 43 percent of operators who reported negative sales in June.   

Restaurant operators also reported a net decline in customer traffic levels in July.  Thirty-five percent of restaurant operators reported an increase in customer traffic between July 2009 and July 2010, up slightly from 33 percent of operators who reported higher customer traffic in June.  Forty-six percent of operators reported a traffic decline in July, up from 43 percent who reported lower traffic in June.

With sales and traffic levels remaining soft, restaurant operators reported relatively steady capital spending levels in recent months.  Forty-five percent of operators said they made a capital expenditure for equipment, expansion or remodeling during the last three months, up slightly from 43 percent who reported similarly last month.

The Expectations Index, which measures restaurant operators’ six-month outlook for four industry indicators (same-store sales, employees, capital expenditures and business conditions), stood at 100.0 in July – down 0.1 percent from June and its lowest level since December 2009.  In addition, the Expectations Index declined for the fourth consecutive month after reaching a three-year high in March.   

Restaurant operators have become less optimistic about their prospects for sales growth in recent months.  Thirty-eight percent of restaurant operators expect to have higher sales in six months (compared to the same period in the previous year), down from 42 percent last month and the lowest level in six months.  In comparison, 20 percent of restaurant operators expect their sales volume in six months to be lower than it was during the same period in the previous year, compared with 21 percent who reported similarly last month.

Restaurant operators are also much less bullish about the direction of the overall economy.  Twenty-six percent of restaurant operators said they expect economic conditions to improve in six months, down from 28 percent who reported similarly last month and the lowest level in 13 months.  In comparison, 21 percent of operators said they expect economic conditions to worsen in the next six months, matching the proportion who reported similarly last month. 

Despite the deteriorating outlook, restaurant operators reported a slight uptick in plans for capital expenditures.  Forty-three percent of restaurant operators plan to make a capital expenditure for equipment, expansion or remodeling in the next six months, up slightly from 41 percent who reported similarly last month. 

The RPI is based on the responses to the National Restaurant Association’s Restaurant Industry Tracking Survey, which is fielded monthly among restaurant operators nationwide on a variety of indicators including sales, traffic, labor, and capital expenditures. The full report is available online.

The RPI is released on the last business day of each month, and more detailed data and analysis can be found on Restaurant TrendMapper (www.restaurant.org/trendmapper), the Association’s subscription-based service that provides detailed analysis of restaurant industry trends.

Founded in 1919, the National Restaurant Association is the leading business association for the restaurant industry, which comprises 945,000 restaurant and foodservice outlets and a workforce of nearly 13 million employees. Together with the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, the Association works to lead America’s restaurant industry into a new era of prosperity, prominence, and participation, enhancing the quality of life for all we serve. For more information, visit our Web site at www.restaurant.org.

Dow Jones Economic Sentiment Indicator Creeps Up Amid Positive Local News; Small Improvement Over July Suggests Progress is Slowing

NEW YORK  (Profitable.com)  In August, the Dow Jones Economic Sentiment Indicator (ESI) rose less than one point signalling that the economic recovery continues despite a slow August.

The ESI registered at 43.2 in August, up slightly from the 42.3 tracked in July 2010. The rise is sluggish compared to last month when the ESI jumped more than two points, registering its largest gain since October 2009.

“The ESI’s stability during recent months belies some of the recent weakness seen in other sentiment surveys and suggests that the underlying momentum of the U.S. economy, including employment, remains positive,” Dow Jones Newswires “Money Talks” Columnist Alen Mattich said. “However, the ESI remains well below the 50-plus levels that characterize normal expansions. This relative weakness suggests it would take little to push the economy back into recessionary conditions.”

The ESI is determined using an economic sentiment analysis algorithm to review news coverage in 15 daily newspapers across the U.S.

Positive reporting on corporate earnings, increasing interest in the public markets as household names such as Skype SA and General Motors plan initial public offerings and encouraging local and sector-specific stories contributed to the ESI’s modest improvement.

News of record low new-home sales was counterbalanced by stories covering local real estate rebounds, including an up tick of home sales in the Hamptons and a bidding war over the John Hancock Tower in Boston. Thanks to strong aircraft orders, the transportation industry showed strength despite overall weakness in durable good orders.

The Dow Jones Economic Sentiment Indicator aims to predict the health of the U.S. economy by analyzing the coverage of 15 major daily newspapers in the U.S. Using a proprietary algorithm and derived data technology, the ESI examines every article in each of the newspapers for positive and negative sentiment about the economy. The indicator is calculated through Dow Jones Insight, a media tracking and analysis tool. The technology used for the ESI also powers Dow Jones Lexicon, a proprietary dictionary that allows traders and analysts to determine sentiment, frequency and other relevant complex patterns within news to develop predictive trading strategies.

The ESI’s back-testing to 1990 shows that the ESI clearly highlighted the risk that the U.S. economy was sliding into recession in 2001 and 2008 and suggests the indicator can help predict economic turning points as much as seven months in advance of other indicators. More information about the Economic Sentiment Indicator and its development is available at http://dowjones.com/esi .

About Dow Jones Insight

Dow Jones Insight (http://www.dowjones.com/product-djinsight.asp) uses innovative text mining and analytic technologies to help organizations keep informed about relevant issues, news, conversations and trends emerging in mainstream, Web and social media.  Dow Jones Insight’s global content collection includes more than 25,000 news and information sources as well as blogs, message boards, and posts from YouTube and Twitter.

About Dow Jones

Dow Jones & Company (www.dowjones.com) is a News Corporation company (Nasdaq: NWS, NWSA; ASX: NWS, NWSLV; www.newscorp.com) and a leading provider of global news and business information. Its principal products include The Wall Street Journal, Dow Jones Newswires, Dow Jones Factiva, Barron’s and MarketWatch. Through its Local Media Group, Dow Jones operates community-based newspapers and Web sites. Dow Jones also provides news content to television and radio stations.

The Dow Jones Economic Sentiment Indicator is provided for analysis purposes only and Dow Jones makes no representation that the indicator is a definitive predictor of sentiment or the health of the U.S. economy.  This report does not in any way reflect an opinion of Dow Jones regarding the U.S. economy or the suitability of any investments.

ATLANTA  (Profitable.com)  Equifax Inc. (NYSE: EFX) today announced the expansion of their identity fraud management suite of solutions, providing businesses with a more complete approach to fighting both true-name and synthetic identity fraud.  Identity fraud impacts millions of consumers annually, and causes billions of dollars in losses.

The Identity Suite provides businesses with proven Equifax analytics and technology solutions that create multiple layers of defense against attempted application fraud.   At the heart of the Identity Suite is a patented real-time identity verification and authentication tool that provides automated, non-intrusive protection using statistical fraud models and adaptive quiz capabilities. The eID real-time risk assessment score helps assess and prioritize any suspicious activity, making the review process more efficient and effective.  Authentication helps customers significantly reduce fraud losses, reduce manual reviews and decrease abandonment during the application process.

“Our fraud solutions leverage powerful analytics and technology to offer our customers greater control and flexibility over their fraud mitigation processes,” said Rajib Roy, President of Equifax Technology and Analytics. “And our customers are seeing significant positive impact from our Identity Suite of solutions.”  

Equifax is currently providing its fraud detection solutions to thousands of customers including 38 of the top 50 banks and all four of the major telecommunications companies.

The Identity Suite utilizes identity screening solutions to quickly identify suspicious information and known fraud schemes. Equifax’s fraud-screening capabilities leverage extensive public and proprietary database sources to effectively detect potential identity theft during the application process.  

In addition, the Identity Suite leverages the new SSN Affirm tool to alert businesses to whether an inquiry Social Security number is associated with the consumer making the application.  SSN Affirm checks whether the SSN belongs to a real person using a proprietary comparison algorithm and data.  The Identity Suite additionally includes the Account Verify product that is used to verify account numbers presented by consumers.  

“Our Identity fraud solution has helped businesses catch as much as 75% fraudulent applications without impacting or delaying the account opening process,” said Roy.

Equifax offers professional services to help customers easily integrate their fraud solutions into existing processes and gain greater control over their fraud automation processes.  

Equifax’s fraud solutions leverages the company’s deep experience across multiple industries and helps businesses minimize fraud losses while improving compliance and staff productivity.  For more information on Equifax fraud solutions, call (800) 530-5749 or email technology@equifax.com.

About Equifax

Equifax empowers businesses and consumers with information they can trust. A global leader in information solutions, we leverage one of the largest sources of consumer and commercial data, along with advanced analytics and proprietary technology, to create customized insights that enrich both the performance of businesses and the lives of consumers.

With a strong heritage of innovation and leadership, Equifax continuously delivers innovative solutions with the highest integrity and reliability.  Businesses – large and small – rely on us for consumer and business credit intelligence, portfolio management, fraud detection, decisioning technology, marketing tools, and much more.  We empower individual consumers to manage their personal credit information, protect their identity, and maximize their financial well-being.

Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Equifax Inc. operates in the U.S. and 14 other countries throughout North America, Latin America, Europe and Asia. Equifax is a member of Standard & Poor’s (S&P) 500® Index. Our common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol EFX.

Guests Can Earn Double Choice Privileges Points with Every Stay at Economy and Extended Stay Properties

SILVER SPRING, Md.  (Profitable.com)  Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH) is offering travelers the chance to earn double Choice Privileges points on each and every qualifying stay at its economy and extended stay brand hotels this fall.*  

“After offering our guests the opportunity to earn double Choice Privileges points starting with their second stay last year, we’ve decided to add even more value for our customers by giving them the chance to earn double points on their first stay this fall,” said Greg Brown, vice president of loyalty and relationship marketing for Choice Hotels. “While earning great rewards in half the time, our guests are also able to keep more money in their pockets for what really matters – having a great vacation.”

After every qualifying stay, booked at choicehotels.com or 800.4CHOICE, at any MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay, Econo Lodge or Rodeway Inn hotel this fall in the U.S. and Canada, guests will automatically earn double the amount of Choice Privileges points. Guests who stay with arrival between August 26 and November 3, 2010 will be eligible for this special promotion.

As a member of the free Choice Privileges rewards program, guests can earn points good towards free nights, airline miles, gift certificates and more while staying at Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Sleep Inn, Clarion, Cambria Suites, MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, Econo Lodge, Rodeway Inn or Ascend Collection properties throughout the U.S. (including Hawaii), Canada, Europe, the Middle East, Mexico, Central America, Australasia and the Caribbean.**

About Choice Hotels

Choice Hotels International, Inc. franchises more than 6,000 hotels, representing more than 490,000 rooms, in the United States and more than 35 other countries and territories. As of June 30, 2010, more than 580 hotels are under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in the United States, representing more than 47,000 rooms, and approximately 100 hotels, representing approximately 8,700 rooms, are under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in 20 other countries and territories. The company’s Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Sleep Inn, Clarion, Cambria Suites, MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, Econo Lodge and Rodeway Inn brands serve guests worldwide. In addition, via its Ascend Collection membership program, travelers in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean have upscale lodging options at historic, boutique and unique hotels.

Additional corporate information may be found on the Choice Hotels Web site, which may be accessed at www.choicehotels.com.

Choice Hotels, Choice Hotels International, Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Sleep Inn, Clarion, Cambria Suites, MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, Econo Lodge, Rodeway Inn and Ascend Collection are proprietary trademarks and service marks of Choice Hotels International.

© 2010 Choice Hotels International, Inc. All rights reserved.

*Valid Choice Privileges number must be provided upon check-in for stay to be eligible. Book at choicehotels.com or 800.4CHOICE, at qualifying rates, to earn double Choice Privileges points with arrival between 8/26/10 and 11/3/10 at MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay, Econo Lodge and Rodeway Inn hotels in the U.S. and Canada. You must maintain an address in the U.S. (including U.S. territories), Canada, Mexico or eligible countries in Central America, the Caribbean and Europe to be eligible for this promotion. For program details, eligible rates, eligible countries and point redemption rules, visit choiceprivileges.com.

**Excluding: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway and Sweden.

MIAMI  (Profitable.com)  Black Enterprise magazine has named Burger King Corp. (NYSE: BKC) one of the “40 Best Companies for Diversity” in the publication’s 6^th Annual Diversity Report, which is a comprehensive analysis of the top 1,000 publicly-traded companies and 50 leading global companies with U.S. operations. This is the third consecutive year BKC has been recognized for demonstrating diversity among the company’s suppliers and employees.

“At Burger King Corp., we have always strived to foster an inclusive work environment and have ensured that inclusion and diversity are woven into not only our business strategy, but also our culture,” said Robert Perkins, vice president, inclusion and talent management, Burger King Corp. “We are proud to see such efforts come to fruition, and we are honored to be recognized by such an esteemed publication as Black Enterprise.”

BKC has dedicated considerable effort to creating a diverse culture in the workplace. Centering on four key pillars led by the executive team, BKC’s inclusion efforts focus on the workforce, community, restaurant guests and operators/suppliers. Recognizing the powerful impact of diversity within the brand, BKC continually strives to create business opportunities in the BURGER KING® system for qualified suppliers owned by women and minorities and is committed to recruiting, retaining and developing its employees from various backgrounds through workshops, speakers and various networking opportunities.

“We are proud that our efforts and accomplishments have garnered the attention of such a prominent and established publication for African American professionals as Black Enterprise,” Perkins said. “By continually recognizing and appreciating the differences in each individual, BKC is committed to helping our employee base grow both personally and professionally.”

In addition, BKC was recently named to the Working Mother 2010 list of the Best Companies for Multicultural Women, which honored 23 companies that are dedicated to bringing more perspectives to the decision-making table by promoting the advancement of multicultural women.

About Burger King Corporation

The BURGER KING® system operates more than 12,150 restaurants in all 50 states and in 75 countries and U.S. territories worldwide. Approximately 90 percent of BURGER KING® restaurants are owned and operated by independent franchisees, many of them family-owned operations that have been in business for decades. In 2010, Fortune magazine ranked Burger King Corp. (BKC) among America’s 1,000 largest corporations and Standard & Poor’s included shares of Burger King Holdings, Inc. in the S&P MidCap 400 index. BKC was recently recognized by Interbrand on its top 100 “Best Global Brands” list and Ad Week has named it one of the top three industry-changing advertisers within the last three decades. To learn more about Burger King Corp., please visit the company’s website at www.bk.com.

About Black Enterprise

BLACK ENTERPRISE (BE), your ultimate source for wealth creation, is the premier business, investing, and wealth-building resource for African Americans. Since 1970, BE has provided essential business information and advice to professionals, corporate executives, entrepreneurs, and decision makers. Every month, black enterprise magazine provides 4.3 million readers with information on entrepreneurship, careers, and financial management. A multimedia company, BE also produces radio and television programming, business and lifestyle events, Web content, and digital media. Black Enterprise is the definitive source of information for and about African American business markets and leaders, and the authority on black business news and trends.

CHICAGO  (Profitable.com)  While Lindsay Lohan’s doctors say a personality disorder misdiagnosed as an addiction is the root of her problems, a medical expert from Timberline Knolls Residential Treatment Center suggests further ongoing addiction treatment will still be needed to save her life.

Kimberly Dennis, M.D., medical director for Timberline Knolls and a psychiatrist who specializes in treatment for addiction and mood disorders, believes Lohan has exhibited the symptoms of a woman suffering from the deadly disease of addiction for years. People who suffer with substance abuse/dependence very commonly have co-occurring disorders, including personality disorders. (Dr. Dennis is not Lohan’s physician.)

“There tends to be significant denial and minimization of addiction by society in general, and even among health care professionals. While I’m relying on what’s been reported in the media, I find it hard to believe the reports from doctors who would not give a diagnosis of substance abuse or dependence, in this instance,” says Dr. Dennis. “Lindsay is someone who could easily die of the disease without ongoing, integrated addiction treatment and recovery efforts addressing her relationship with drugs and alcohol, as well as the personality disorder.”

“One sign of addiction is continual use of drugs and alcohol in the face of catastrophic problems…and she’s done that,” says Dr. Dennis. Many times the public was told that Lindsay was absent when expected in court or on set. During these times, the actress failed to meet legal and job obligations. “Media reports that in the context of major challenges in her life, Lindsay Lohan has continued to abuse multiple substances.”

Adds Dr. Dennis, “The fact that Lindsay’s been in treatment is positive, but it doesn’t solve all of her problems. Recovery must be attended to daily.”

About Timberline Knolls Residential Treatment Center

Timberline Knolls is one of the leading private residential treatment centers for eating disorders, alcoholism, and drug abuse, with or without a dual diagnosis, co-occurring disorder or trauma. Expert treatment staff offers a nurturing environment of recovery for women and girls (ages 12 and older) on a wooded 43-acre campus in suburban Chicago. For more information on Timberline Knolls Residential Treatment Center, call us at 877.257.9611.

Diverse Issues in Higher Education ranks the school 15th nationally

CAMBRIDGE, Mass.  (Profitable.com)  Cambridge College, a private non-profit college serving working adults, was named one of America’s Top 100 Graduate Degree Producers by Diverse Issues in Higher Education Magazine. Nationally, the college ranked 15th in awarding the most master’s degrees to African American students, higher than any other school in New England. It also ranked 34th nationally in awarding master’s degrees to all minorities.  

“We’re pleased to receive this distinction because it reflects the college’s commitment to providing educational opportunities for hard-working adults across all walks of life,” said college President Tito Guerrero, III. “We specialize in providing an avenue for adult students to reach their educational goals and the diversity of our student body creates a rich and inclusive classroom environment.”

Last year, the college enrolled more than 8,100 students in professional education and degree programs.  In addition to receiving distinction at the college-wide level, each of Cambridge College’s graduate schools individually ranked nationally on the diversity Top 100 list, including: 6th in minorities receiving master’s degrees in Education; 22nd in minorities in Psychology; and 41st in African Americans in Business.  

A full list of Cambridge College’s rankings in the Top 100 follows:

Master’s Degrees in All Disciplines

• 15th to African Americans
• 47th to Hispanics
• 34th to Minorities

Master’s Degrees in Education

• 5th to African Americans
• 18th to Hispanics
• 46th to Native Americans
• 6th to Minorities

Master’s Degrees in Psychology

• 26th to African Americans
• 14th to Hispanics
• 44th to Asian Americans
• 22nd to Minorities

Master’s Degrees in Business/Management

• 41st to African Americans

About Cambridge College

Cambridge College, (www.cambridgecollege.edu), is dedicated to providing academically excellent, time-efficient, and cost-effective higher education for a diverse population of working adults for whom those opportunities may have been limited or denied.  Founded in 1971, Cambridge College is a private non-profit institution of higher education accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges Commission on Institutions of Higher Education, (NEASC CIHE).  Comprised of four schools –Undergraduate Studies, Education, Psychology and Counseling, and Management – and Cambridge College enrolls more than 8,000 students each year in professional education and undergraduate, graduate and doctorate-level degree programs at the main campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts and across seven regional centers nationwide in Springfield and Lawrence, Massachusetts; Chesapeake, Virginia; Memphis, Tennessee; Augusta, Georgia; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Ontario, California.

Merger currently expected to close by October 1

HOUSTON and CHICAGO  (Profitable.com)  United Airlines (Nasdaq: UAUA) and Continental Airlines (NYSE: CAL) have announced they have been notified by the Antitrust Division of the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) of the termination of its Hart-Scott-Rodino Act review and the closing of its investigation of the airlines’ pending merger.

“We are pleased to have achieved this critical milestone and look forward to our respective stockholders’ votes next month, following which we expect to be on track to close our merger by October 1st,” said Glenn Tilton, UAL Corporation chairman, president and CEO.  ”The combination of United and Continental will create a world class airline, which will deliver an industry leading network for our customers and the communities we serve, career opportunities for our people, and value and return for our stockholders.”

“The completion of DOJ’s review is an important step on our journey of creating the world’s leading airline, benefiting our customers, co-workers, communities and stockholders,” said Jeff Smisek, Continental’s chairman, president and CEO.  ”The DOJ’s decision permits us to clear one of the last regulatory hurdles to closing our merger.”

Continental and United also would like to acknowledge the efforts of the United States Department of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration as the companies work through the merger process. In addition, Continental and United remain engaged in discussions with the state attorneys general who are reviewing the merger, and hope to conclude those discussions expeditiously with a positive outcome.  

Continental and United announced an all-stock merger of equals on May 3, 2010, and currently expect the transaction to close by Oct. 1, 2010, subject to stockholder approvals and customary closing conditions.  Both companies have scheduled special stockholder meetings on Sept. 17, 2010, for approval of the merger.

United and Continental received clearance from the European Commission on the airlines’ proposed merger in July, which noted its investigation found the transaction would not raise competitive concerns in Europe or on trans-Atlantic routes.

About United

United Airlines, a wholly-owned subsidiary of UAL Corporation (Nasdaq: UAUA), operates approximately 3,400* flights a day on United and United Express to more than 230 U.S. domestic and international destinations from its hubs in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Denver, Chicago and Washington, D.C.  With key global air rights in the Asia-Pacific region, Europe and Latin America, United is one of the largest international carriers based in the United States.  United also is a founding member of Star Alliance, which overall offers 21,200 daily flights to 1,172 airports in 181 countries through its 28 member airlines.  United’s 46,000 employees reside in every U.S. state and in many countries around the world.  United ranked No. 1 in on-time performance** for domestic scheduled flights for 2009 among America’s five largest global carriers, as measured by the Department of Transportation and published in the Air Travel Consumer Report for 2009.  United also ranked No. 1 in on-time arrivals among the five largest U.S. global carriers for the first six months of 2010 based on preliminary information.  News releases and other information about United can be found at the company’s Web site at united.com, and follow United on Twitter @UnitedAirlines.

**According to preliminary industry results provided by the five largest U.S. global carriers based on available seat miles, enplaned passengers or passenger revenue, United ranked highest in on-time performance for domestic scheduled flights as measured by the U.S. DOT (flights arriving within 14 minutes of scheduled arrival time) between January 1 and June 30, 2010, when compared to such U.S. global carriers, which includes Delta (including its Northwest subsidiary), American, Continental and US Airways.

*Based on United’s forward-looking flight schedule for January 2010 to December 2010.

About Continental Airlines

Continental Airlines is the world’s fifth largest airline. Continental, together with Continental Express and Continental Connection, has more than 2,700 daily departures throughout the Americas, Europe and Asia, serving 132 domestic and 137 international destinations. Continental is a member of Star Alliance, which overall offers more than 21,200 daily flights to 1,172 airports in 181 countries through its 28 member airlines. With more than 40,000 employees, Continental has hubs serving New York, Houston, Cleveland and Guam, and together with its regional partners, carries approximately 63 million passengers per year.  For more company information, go to continental.com.

Important Information For Investors And Stockholders

In connection with the proposed merger of equals transaction between UAL Corporation (“UAL”) and Continental Airlines, Inc. (“Continental”), UAL filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), and the SEC declared effective on August 18, 2010, a registration statement on Form S-4 that includes a joint proxy statement of Continental and UAL that also constitutes a prospectus of UAL.  UAL and Continental have mailed the joint proxy statement/prospectus to their respective security holders.  UAL AND CONTINENTAL URGE INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS TO READ THE JOINT PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS FILED WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY, AS THEY CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION.  Investors and security holders may obtain free copies of the joint proxy statement/prospectus and other documents containing important information about UAL and Continental through the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov. Copies of the documents filed with the SEC by UAL are available free of charge on UAL’s website at www.united.com under the tab “Investor Relations” or by contacting UAL’s Investor Relations Department at (312) 997-8610.  Copies of the documents filed with the SEC by Continental are available free of charge on Continental’s website at www.continental.com under the tab “About Continental” and then under the tab “Investor Relations” or by contacting Continental’s Investor Relations Department at (713) 324-5152.

UAL, Continental and certain of their respective directors and executive officers may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies in connection with the proposed transaction.  Information about the directors and executive officers of Continental is set forth in its proxy statement for its 2010 annual meeting of stockholders, which was filed with the SEC on April 23, 2010, and the joint proxy statement/prospectus related to the proposed transaction.  Information about the directors and executive officers of UAL is set forth in its proxy statement for its 2010 annual meeting of stockholders, which was filed with the SEC on April 30, 2010, and the joint proxy statement/prospectus related to the proposed transaction.  These documents can be obtained free of charge from the sources indicated above.      

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This communication contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that are not limited to historical facts, but reflect Continental’s and UAL’s current beliefs, expectations or intentions regarding future events.  Words such as “may,” “will,” “could,” “should,” “expect,” “plan,” “project,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “pursue,” “target,” “continue,” and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements.  These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, Continental’s and UAL’s expectations with respect to the synergies, costs and other anticipated financial impacts of the proposed transaction; future financial and operating results of the combined company; the combined company’s plans, objectives, expectations and intentions with respect to future operations and services; approval of the proposed transaction by stockholders and by governmental regulatory authorities; the satisfaction of the closing conditions to the proposed transaction; and the timing of the completion of the proposed transaction.

All forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements, many of which are generally outside the control of Continental and UAL and are difficult to predict.  Examples of such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, (1) the possibility that the proposed transaction is delayed or does not close, including due to the failure to receive required stockholder or regulatory approvals, the taking of governmental action (including the passage of legislation) to block the transaction, or the failure of other closing conditions, and (2) the possibility that the expected synergies will not be realized, or will not be realized within the expected time period, because of, among other things, significant volatility in the cost of aircraft fuel, the high leverage and other significant capital commitments of Continental and UAL, the ability to obtain financing and to refinance the combined company’s debt, the ability of Continental and UAL to maintain and utilize their respective net operating losses, the impact of labor relations, global economic conditions, fluctuations in exchange rates, competitive actions taken by other airlines, terrorist attacks, natural disasters, difficulties in integrating the two airlines, the willingness of customers to travel by air, actions taken or conditions imposed by the U.S. and foreign governments or other regulatory matters, excessive taxation, further industry consolidation and changes in airlines alliances, the availability and cost of insurance and public health threats.

UAL and Continental caution that the foregoing list of factors is not exclusive. Additional information concerning these and other risk factors is contained in Continental’s and UAL’s most recently filed Annual Reports on Form 10-K, subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, recent Current Reports on Form 8-K, and other SEC filings.  All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements concerning Continental, UAL, the proposed transaction or other matters and attributable to Continental or UAL or any person acting on their behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements above.  Neither Continental nor UAL undertakes any obligation to publicly update any of these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date hereof.

CHICAGO  (Profitable.com)  If you don’t want fast food and you don’t want an expensive full service meal, a fast casual restaurant might be just the ticket. According to a recent Mintel foodservice report, the fast casual restaurant category accounted for estimated sales of $23 billion in 2010, up nearly 30% since 2006.

Restaurants in this market claim to combine the quality of family casual with the convenience of fast food. At $6-12 per ticket, pricing falls between fast food and casual dining. Fast casual restaurants distinguish themselves from fast food through their modified table service, higher food quality, greater attention to healthful foods and, in some cases, availability of beer and wine.

“The relatively new fast casual category has fared well through the recession as people can see the added value in the food and atmosphere, despite the slightly higher price point,” comments Eric Giandelone, director of foodservice research at Mintel. “The majority of restaurant-goers say quality is the most important determinant in their choice of a restaurant, which will continue to help this category grow.”

Fast casual restaurants have not yet displaced fast food, casual dining, pizza or family dining restaurants, but this fairly young category makes its strongest statement during the lunch hour, with patronage levels almost equaling that of casual dining (26% of respondents have visited a fast casual restaurant in the past month and 28% a casual dining restaurant.) However, fast food still holds a strong lead with nearly 60% of Mintel respondents frequenting a fast food establishment for lunch within the past month.

According to Eric Giandelone, the main reason fast casual restaurants lag so far behind fast food is simply that there aren’t as many of them. One of the most successful fast casual chains, Panera Bread, had 1,388 locations as of March 2010, meanwhile fast food leader, McDonald’s had 10 times that number of restaurants in the US.

Nearly 30% of those surveyed cite the reason for not frequenting a fast casual restaurant in the past month as “there are no/not many fast casual restaurants by me.” Just over a quarter of respondents (26%) claim they are too expensive and 22% prefer a regular wait staff when they dine out.

*For more information on Fast Casual restaurant segments, menu analysis or interview requests, contact: press@mintel.com

About Mintel

Mintel is a leading global supplier of consumer, product and media intelligence. For more than 38 years, Mintel has provided insight into key worldwide trends, offering exclusive data and analysis that directly impacts client success. With offices in Chicago, New York, London, Sydney, Shanghai and Tokyo, Mintel has forged a unique reputation as a world-renowned business brand. For more information on Mintel, please visit www.mintel.com. Follow Mintel on Twitter: http://twitter.com/mintelnews

MCLEAN, Va.  (Profitable.com)  USA TODAY has announced a major organizational restructuring with the creation of new departments as well as key appointments in the departments of circulation, finance and news.

“This significant restructuring reflects USA TODAY’s evolution from a newspaper company to a multi-platform media company,” said David L. Hunke, President and Publisher of USA TODAY. “When USA TODAY first launched in 1982, we led the news and information industry in aligning our content with readers and advertisers. I’m confident these key executive appointments in new and current departments will continue our legacy as a vital, valuable media brand across print, digital and mobile platforms.”  

Five new departments have been established with management positions announced.

Rudd Davis will join USA TODAY as Vice President of Business Development, heading a department which will develop and secure new business opportunities and partnerships including brand licensing, content syndication, acquisitions and joint ventures. Davis will also assume oversight of USA TODAY’s retail, hotel and education-based partnerships. Davis was previously President and Founder of BNQT.

Jeff Dionise has been appointed Vice President of Product Development and Design, which will focus on research and development of new USA TODAY products across all of the brand’s networks. Dionise will also be responsible for refinements and enhancements to current USA TODAY products. Dionise was previously Director of Design for USATODAY.com, returning to USA TODAY in that position in 1995. He originally joined the company in 1988 from the Detroit News as an informational graphics specialist and was lead artist for the USA TODAY Weather Book. He also held the position of Art Director with KRT Graphics Network.

Heather Frank has been named Vice President of Vertical Development, overseeing the department dedicated to the creation and implementation of new as well as existing vertical content areas. Frank was previously General Manager of USA TODAY’s “Your Life” health and lifestyle vertical, which will launch in September. She joined the company in 2010. Prior to coming to USA TODAY, she led the content programming and operations teams for RevolutionHealth.com and previously held positions with Meredith Corporation and America Online.

Steve Kurtz has been appointed Vice President of Digital Development, which will focus on developing and maintaining technology and systems to support USA TODAY’s existing dotcom, mobile, iPhone and iPad platforms. Kurtz will also oversee the development as well as acquisition of digital and emerging platform space. Kurtz was previously Director of Digital Information Technology for USATODAY.com and joined the company in 2004 as Manager of Information Technology Development. Prior to USA TODAY, he held positions with Cavasoft, Inc.

Also unique in the organizational restructuring is the establishment of USA TODAY Sports, which will be distinguished as a national brand and provide a sports platform for USA TODAY sports content as well as multiple media content assets and products from Gannett-wide properties. Ross Schaufelberger has been named Vice President and General Manager of the new USA TODAY Sports. Schaufelberger previously served as initial CEO of BNQT Media Group, the nation’s largest digital network for action sports in key male youth demographics, and led the company’s acquisition of BNQT by Gannett in December, 2007. Prior to BNQT, he served in various executive roles at AOL, Inc., including General Manager of AOL Sports, as well as executive positions with STATS, Inc. and Broadband Sports/Athlete Direct.

Announcements of key executives were also made in the existing USA TODAY departments of circulation, finance and news.

Brad Jones has been named Senior Vice President of Circulation. Jones, formerly Vice President of Circulation Business Operations at USA TODAY, succeeds Larry Lindquist, Senior Vice President of Circulation at USA TODAY, who is retiring after more than 29 years with Gannett and USA TODAY. Jones was named Vice President of Business Operations at USA TODAY earlier this year. He joined USA TODAY in 1988 and has previously held management positions in USA TODAY’s Texas, Oklahoma, western Arkansas and Carolinas circulation markets. In March 2000, he was named Circulation Vice President of USA TODAY’s Midwest circulation region, and Vice President of the West region in 2005. Prior to joining USA TODAY, Jones worked for Redman Industries.

Myron Maslowsky, USA TODAY’s Vice President of Finance since 2002, has been appointed to the newly created position of Senior Vice President, Group Finance and Administration. In addition to USA TODAY Finance, Maslowsky will now also oversee USA TODAY’s Information Technology and Human Resources departments. Maslowsky joined Gannett in 1984 as manager of internal audit. He was named director in 1989 and vice president in 1995.  Prior to joining Gannett, Maslowsky was an audit manager for Price Waterhouse in Rochester, N.Y.

Also announced in USA TODAY Group Finance and Administration was the naming of Susan Motiff to the newly created position of Vice President, Strategic Planning, Analysis and Support. Motiff was previously Group Controller Gannett Offset/USA TODAY decision support for the finance departments of USA TODAY, Gannett Offset and Gannett Digital. She joined Gannett in 1994 as an internal auditor and went on to hold positions of Assistant Controller and Controller for the Army Times before being named Group Controller of Gannett Offset in 2004 and adding USA TODAY in 2009. In her new position, Motiff will oversee financial analysis and modeling for USA TODAY brands, including planning for and analysis of business and development opportunities.

These key executive appointments will join the current USA TODAY leadership team, which includes Lee Jones, Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing; Ken Kirkhart, Vice President, Production; and John Palmisano, Vice President of Information Technology.

John Hillkirk, Editor, also announced two new appointments in USA TODAY news. Susan Weiss, Managing Editor of the Life Section of USA TODAY since 1990, has been named Executive Editor, Content. Weiss started at USA TODAY in 1983 as a Copy Editor in the Life section and later held positions as TV Editor and Deputy Managing Editor. She previously held positions at McCall’s magazine.

Chet Czarniak has been announced as Executive Editor, Content Distribution and Programming for USA TODAY’s print, online and mobile news and information platforms. Czarniak was previously Network Managing Editor. He joined USA TODAY as a Sports reporter in 1983 and moved to USATODAY.com in 1999.

All announcements were made effective Friday, August 27, 2010.

USA TODAY is a multi-platform news and information media company. Founded in 1982, USA TODAY’s mission is to serve as a forum for better understanding and unity to help make the USA truly one nation. Today, through its newspaper, website and mobile platforms, USA TODAY connects readers and engages the national conversation. USA TODAY, the nation’s number one newspaper in print circulation with an average of more than 1.8 million daily, and USATODAY.com, an award-winning newspaper website  launched in 1995, reach a combined 5.9 million readers daily. USA TODAY is a leader in mobile applications with more than five million downloads on mobile devices.  The USA TODAY brand also includes USA TODAY Education and USA TODAY Sports Weekly. USA TODAY is owned by Gannett Co., Inc. (NYSE: GCI).

Chicago, IL  (Profitable.com)  Visits to U.S. restaurants are forecasted to grow less than one percent a year over the next -decade, slower than the 1.1 percent a year growth in the country’s population, according to recently released foodservice market research by The NPD Group, a leading market research company. The report, A Look into the Future of Foodservice, forecasts that annual visits to restaurants will increase by 8 percent over the next ten years.

The report, which provides forecasts of restaurant segments, categories, visit situations, and beverage and food products based on the aging of the U.S. population, population growth, and recent trends, finds that the aging of the U.S. population over the next decade will not benefit the restaurant industry.

“The aging effect on the restaurant industry will be slightly negative because of aging Baby Boomers,” says Bonnie Riggs, NPD’s restaurant industry analyst and author of A Look into the Future of Foodservice. “A greater share of visits will source to those 50 years and older in 2019, but as consumers age they become less frequent restaurant users. This means the restaurant industry will have heavier dependence on lighter buyers.”

Trend momentum, which captures behavioral momentum based on the past nine years and includes such factors as new menu items, promotions, and restaurant openings and closings, has not been working in the industry’s favor.

“In addition to being hit hard by the recession, Americans are eating more suppers at home, and fewer women entering the workforce have negatively impacted restaurant industry traffic,” says Riggs. “The current trend momentum may not appear favorable for the industry moving forward, but it’s the area where the industry has the greatest opportunity to change the direction of the forecast. There isn’t much that can be done about the aging of the population and population growth.”

She points out that the growth at the breakfast and PM Snack dayparts are examples of trends that present opportunities for the foodservice industry.

“Forecasts are something to be worked against, but are not cast in stone,” says Riggs. “They are used to assess potential opportunities and risks for the purpose of long-term planning. The future course can be altered.”

About The NPD Group, Inc.

The NPD Group is the leading provider of reliable and comprehensive consumer and retail information for a wide range of industries. Today, more than 1,800 manufacturers, retailers, and service companies rely on NPD to help them drive critical business decisions at the global, national, and local market levels. NPD helps our clients to identify new business opportunities and guide product development, marketing, sales, merchandising, and other functions. Information is available for the following industry sectors: automotive, beauty, commercial technology, consumer technology, entertainment, fashion, food and beverage, foodservice, home, office supplies, software, sports, toys, and wireless. For more information, contact us, visit http://www.npd.com, or follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/npdfood.

ORLANDO, Fla.  (Profitable.com)  Sales of existing condominiums in Florida rose 11 percent in July, with a total of 5,557 condos sold statewide compared to 4,991 units sold in July 2009, according to the latest housing data released by Florida Realtors®.

Eleven of Florida’s metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) reported higher existing condo sales in July, according to Florida Realtors. The statewide existing condo median sales price last month was $87,200; in July 2009 it was $108,500 for a 20 percent decrease. The national median existing condo price was $181,300 in June, according to the National Association of Realtors® (NAR).

Meanwhile, in the year-to-year comparison for existing home sales, a total of 13,589 single-family existing homes sold statewide last month compared to 15,762 homes sold in July 2009 for a decrease of 14 percent. Florida’s median existing-home sales price in July was $138,000; a year earlier, it was $147,600 for a decrease of 7 percent. The median is the midpoint; half the homes sold for more, half for less.

“The homebuyer tax credit expiration added a double dip to what has already been a harrowing ride in the Florida housing market,” said Dr. Sean Snaith, director for the University of Central Florida’s Institute for Economic Competitiveness. “As we move past this second dip, which is evident in the July data, the continued recovery of the state’s housing market will be contingent upon the improvement of the fundamental underpinnings of the housing sector.

“A healthy housing market depends upon a healthy Florida economy, and in particular, an improving labor market,” Snaith added. “Job growth and a declining unemployment rate will help sales continue to grow while at the same time reducing the number of foreclosures in Florida.”

2010 Florida Realtors President Wendell Davis, a broker with Watson Realty Corp. in Jacksonville, noted that the Gulf oil spill, along with uncertainty over its impact, has affected the state’s housing market.

“Along with many local businesses in the Florida Panhandle and in other Gulf Coast states, real estate has experienced significant economic harm following the Deepwater Horizon drilling rig explosion and oil spill,” Davis said. “The announcement that a special allocation from the BP Oil Spill Fund is now available to help the claims of real estate professionals’ – Realtors and licensees – over loss of income or sales due to the Gulf oil spill is a positive action that will help bolster the state’s fragile economy recovery.”

The national median sales price for existing single-family homes in June 2010 was $184,200, up 1.3 percent from a year earlier, according to NAR. In Massachusetts, the statewide median resales price was $331,150 in June; in California, it was $311,950; in Maryland, it was $265,268; and in New York, it was $220,750.

More jobs continue to be key to the housing sector’s recovery, according to NAR’s latest industry outlook. “There could be a couple of additional months of slow home-sales activity before picking up later in the year, provided the job market continues to improve,” said NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun.

The interest rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 4.56 percent in July, down from the 5.22 percent averaged in July 2009, according to Freddie Mac. Florida Realtors’ sales figures reflect closings, which typically occur 30 to 90 days after sales contracts are written.

Two charts showing statistics for Florida and the state’s MSAs are attached. One chart compares the volume of existing, single-family home sales and median sales prices in July 2010 to July 2009 based on Realtor transactions; the other compares the volume of existing, condominium sales and median sales prices in July 2010 to July 2009 based on Realtor transactions.

Florida Realtors®,  formerly known as the Florida Association of Realtors®, serves as the voice for real estate in Florida. It provides programs, services, continuing education, research and legislative representation to its 115,000 members in 67 boards/associations. Florida Realtors® Media Center website is available at http://media.floridarealtors.org.

Editor’s Note: You may wish to use this information with today’s release from the National Association of Realtors.

(1) *Statewide figure includes data from the Naples Area Board of Realtors; it also includes data from the Marco Island Association of Realtors.

Editor’s note: Sales numbers represent totals of Realtors’ closed transactions from local Realtor boards/associations within the MSAs.

This information is based on a survey of MLS sales levels from local Realtor  boards/associations. MSAs are defined by the 2000 Census. Source: Florida Realtors® and the University of Florida Bergstrom Center for Real Estate Studies.

(1) *Statewide figure includes data from the Naples Area Board of Realtors; it also includes data from the Marco Island Association of Realtors.

Editor’s note: Sales numbers represent totals of Realtors’ closed transactions from local Realtor boards/associations within the MSAs.

This information is based on a survey of MLS sales levels from local Realtor  boards/associations. MSAs are defined by the 2000 Census. Source: Florida Realtors® and the University of Florida Bergstrom Center for Real Estate Studies.

New Federal Laws Protect Consumers from High Credit Card Fees

The Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure Act is now in full effect, after being signed into law over 15 months ago. The last and most recent part of the act to go into effect focuses on penalty fees charged by credit card companies. A $25 cap has been placed on late fees that apply to most cards, lowering them from the usual $39. The company is also prohibited from charging a late fee that is more than the missed payment amount. Repeat offenders who miss more than one payment deadline within six months can be charged up to $35 per offense.

Fees for not using a credit card regularly are also illegal now. Consumers have been given the right to opt out of the ability to spend over their approved credit limit, which has generated a lot of income for credit card companies in penalty fees. Interest rate changes require a valid reason and a 45 day notice to all credit holders. These changes have all been designed to protect consumers from unfair credit practices and to help them understand how the credit system works. Merchants also get a break from the high cost of accepting credit cards, with some parts of the act limiting the amount a company can charge for providing the payment acceptance service to stores.

These changes could cost credit card companies over $3 billion dollars in lost revenue, so many experts warn the public to watch out for changes in annual fees and the cost of balance transfers or cash advances. While consumers may have some added protection against high late fee charges and unwarranted interest rate hikes, that doesn’t mean that they won’t end up paying just as much in other fees.

TEMPE, Ariz.  (Profitable.com)  Inc. magazine today ranked LifeLock (www.lifelock.com), an industry leader in proactive identity theft protection, eighth on its 29^th Annual Inc. 500 List, an exclusive ranking of the nation’s fastest-growing private companies. In addition, LifeLock is recognized as No. 1 in the Inc. 500’s Security category. The list represents the most comprehensive look at the most important segment of the economy—America’s independent-minded entrepreneurs. Companies such as Microsoft, Visa, Zappos, Go Daddy, Under Armour, Jamba Juice, American Apparel, Oracle and hundreds of other powerhouses gained early exposure as members of the Inc. 500.

“This is an enormous milestone in the history of our organization,” said Todd Davis, LifeLock Chairman and CEO. “I truly see this recognition as a testament to our employees’ never ending commitment to provide consumers with the means necessary to help fight the fast growing crime of identity theft. Despite a down economy, the pressure of creating an industry and unwanted distractions, we have been able to stay focused on our overall mission and deliver the most innovative products and world-class customer service.”

The 2010 Inc. 500 measures revenue growth from 2006 through 2009; LifeLock’s growth was more than 11,474 percent. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by the first week of 2006, and therefore able to show four full calendar years of sales. Additionally, they had to be U.S. based, privately held, for profit and independent—not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies—as of December 31, 2009. The minimum revenue required for 2006 was $100,000; the minimum for 2009 was $2 million. Of the top 10 ranked companies, LifeLock’s 2009 revenue ranked third with $131.4 million.

In the 29-year history of the Inc. 500 list, there have been only two other Arizona companies ranked higher than LifeLock. In 1992, Insight Direct was ranked fifth, and in 1983, Forever Living Products was ranked sixth. The Go Daddy Group also had a ranking of eighth in 2004.

According to a study released August 12, 2010, by ID Analytics, a leader in consumer risk management, more than 20 million Americans have multiple Social Security numbers (SSNs) associated with their name in commercial records. The research shows that SSNs may not uniquely identify an individual, and organizations can expose themselves and their customers to risk if they solely rely on the SSN to verify an individual. Proactive identity theft protection can help combat the crime and protect the good name of consumers whose personal information could already be readily available to criminals. LifeLock works relentlessly to help protect its members from identity theft before it happens.

About LifeLock

LifeLock, Inc. (www.lifelock.com) is an industry leader in proactive identity theft protection. Since 2005, LifeLock has been providing consumers with the tools and confidence they need to help protect themselves from identity theft. The company has a strong focus on educating consumers and working with law enforcement and elected officials to better understand the increasing threats of identity theft. A multiple award-winning organization, LifeLock has been recognized by AlwaysOn to the Top Global Company 250 list, by Arizona Corporate Excellence as Arizona’s Fastest Growing Company, and most recently by the American Business Awards as having the Best New Product or Service of the Year for the LifeLock Identity Alert™ system.

About Inc. Magazine

Founded in 1979 and acquired in 2005 by Mansueto Ventures LLC, Inc. (www.inc.com) is the only major business magazine dedicated exclusively to owners and managers of growing private companies that delivers real solutions for today’s innovative company builders. With a total paid circulation of 712,961, Inc. provides hands-on tools and market-tested strategies for managing people, finances, sales, marketing, and technology. Visit us online at Inc.com.

Consumers Union Calls on Regulators to Require Mobile Payment Providers to Abide by Strong Consumer Protections

SAN FRANCISCO  (Profitable.com)  Recent news stories have highlighted how consumers in the U.S. soon will be able to pay for products and services with a wave of their smart phones.  But while mobile payment technologies may offer a convenient new way to pay for goods and services, consumers could be at risk of losing money when mistakes are made by merchants and processors or as a result of fraud, according to Consumers Union, the nonprofit publisher of Consumer Reports.      

“As mobile payments systems come to the U.S., product providers and regulators need to make sure that they are at least as safe for consumers to use as traditional credit card and debit card payments,” said Michelle Jun, staff attorney for Consumers Union.  ”It is critical that mobile payment systems are covered by strong rules to protect consumers from losing money because of fraud, processor error or a dispute with a retailer.”

Federal law protects consumers in the event that their credit card or debit card is lost, stolen or misused. But current protections are badly fragmented and don’t apply to all new types of payments.

Credit cards carry a $50 limit on consumer responsibility for unauthorized use, but fraud on debit cards can expose cardholders to $500 or more in liability, depending on how soon consumers report it.  Voluntary payment network “zero liability” policies offered by debit card issuers contain significant loopholes.   Prepaid cards where funds are pooled from many cardholders may lack even the protections that apply to traditional debit cards.

Consumer rights involving disputes with merchants can be even more confusing.  Credit cards provide protections in case of bank errors, unauthorized use, and disputes with merchants, but debit cards provide only protections for bank errors and unauthorized use, not for disputes with the merchant.  

These varying protections make it difficult for customers to determine what protections apply to new payment services.  If mobile payment transactions are backed by a credit card and appear on the credit card bill, then consumers are entitled to all available protections.  If the transaction amount is deducted from the consumer’s deposit account with a financial institution like with a debit card, it should receive the same protections as any other electronic fund transfer.  This means consumers receive a legal right to get back money for errors and theft, but not for a dispute with a merchant about the goods and services.

However, if the transaction is funded by a prepaid card, even the protections for unauthorized use may be missing, and there also will be no legal guarantee of protection in the event of a dispute with a merchant.  If the payment service is provided directly by the mobile carrier and the charges appear on the customer’s cell phone bill, the way it is done in Japan and South Korea, the product might escape consumer protections entirely.  If the cell phone company asks the consumer to make a prepaid deposit to the phone company to cover future charges, protections also will be missing unless the contract provides them.

“Consumers should not be expected to figure out what protections apply to each competing new payments venture,” said Jun.  ”Regardless of the technology or business organization involved, the same high level of consumer protections should be guaranteed by law and contract for any payment service.  Now that mobile payment ventures are emerging in the U.S., it’s time to harmonize and extend consumer protections for all payment services.”

Consumers Union called on companies offering mobile payment systems to include in their contracts the full consumer rights provided under existing federal law for both debit and credit cards, and to provide true voluntary “zero liability” assurance for consumers without loopholes. The consumer group also noted that regulators need to use their current statutory authority to ensure that existing consumer protections are applied to all new payment methods. For example, the Federal Reserve Board should apply full debit card protections to payments backed via a prepaid card through a simple interpretation of Regulation E.

If the Federal Reserve Board fails to act, Consumers Union noted that the new Consumer Financial Protection Bureau created under the recently passed financial reform legislation has the authority to address unfair payment practices.  

For Consumers Union’s tips for mobile payment users, see:

http://www.defendyourdollars.org/2009/06/consumers_unions_tips_for_mobi.html

More Than 87% Will Increase Investment in the Next 12 Months

NEW YORK  (Profitable.com)  The Pivot Conference today released findings from its survey of 137 brand marketers and ad agency professionals that point to a significant investment in social media marketing programs in the next 12 months. Of the marketers surveyed, about two-thirds (63%) have already implemented social media marketing programs, and 87% plan to increase that investment in the next 12 months. Of the 37% of marketers that are not currently investing in social media, 62% plan to invest within one year.

Based on measurement, analysis and goals for their programs, 89% of those surveyed said their social media marketing programs have been successful, and of that, 30% cited that programs were very successful, e.g. generated more sales or improved customer relations. On the other hand, 11% of the marketers surveyed said they were unable to tell whether their programs were successful.

“While the technology and tools are there, social media is still uncharted territory for many marketers,” says Chris Shipley, executive producer of Pivot Conference. “The survey results indicate that they are planning to spend money but are still looking for guidance on how to spend their budgets, how to track ROI and the best ways to engage with key customers.”

Social Media Marketing Is a Small Portion of Total Budget But Spending Is Likely to Increase

Despite the relatively low cost to implement social media programs, 74% of marketers surveyed said that less than 20% of their online marketing resources, including budget and staff to manage them, were devoted to social media programs. And yet, 87% stated plans to increase their investment in social media marketing programs in the next 12 months.

Who Is the Target Customer?

75% of the marketers surveyed are targeting the “always-on” consumer, described as “hyper-connected” because of their frequency of engagement with the Internet and mobile devices.  

• 36% stated that the demographic is a primary target, and 39% stated it as a secondary target.
• Survey respondents believe that 50% or more of 18-34 year old consumers are “always-on.”

When asked their opinions about “always-on,” 18-34 year old consumers, the majority of surveyed marketers agreed:

• When marketing programs are formatted and delivered in a way 18-34 year olds find engaging, they are susceptible to branding or re-branding. (71%)
• Their attention span for marketing/advertising is shorter than previous generations. (70%)
• They often have different motivations than previous generations, such as green or socially conscious interests. (67%)
• They have the potential to be more influential than consumers who are not always-on. (62%)

The study indicated that just over half of the marketers surveyed (57%) are seeking active engagement with customers using social media platforms.  Another 30% are exploring customer involvement with caution or have not yet formalized how to engage with those customers using social media.

Where Customers Go, Marketers Follow

In keeping with the online habits of 18-34 year old consumers, the most popular Internet/mobile platforms that marketers are currently using include:

• Search engines (i.e. Google) – 89% using
• Social media sites (i.e. Facebook) – 84% using
• Micro-blogging/presence applications (i.e. Twitter) – 72% using

Emerging platforms in which marketers are planning to increase investment include:

• Mobile apps (i.e. iPhone) – 39% currently using; 42% plan to use
• Location-based services (i.e. foursquare) – 23% currently using; 35% plan to use
• In-game advertising (i.e. FarmVille) – 5% currently using; 23% plan to use

Methodology

The online survey was conducted by Extra Mile Audience Research on behalf of the Pivot Conference between June 29 and July 30, 2010. The invitation to participate in this online survey was sent to corporate marketers and ad agency professionals via email and through social media channels. 137 responded to the survey.

To request a copy of the report, please visit: https://pivotcon.wufoo.com/forms/pivot-survey-request-form/

About the Pivot Conference

The Pivot Conference, taking place October 17 – 20 in New York, is a new kind of marketing conference singularly focused on the 18-34 year old demographic: their attitudes, technologies and preferences. Pivot is the first and only conference where brand marketers can go to gain essential confidence in their power to inhabit the culture, conventions and conversations of today’s young consumers. Sponsors of Pivot Conference include Automattic, Geeknet, Glam Media, Ooyala, VideoEgg, Yahoo!.

BASKING RIDGE, N.J.  (Profitable.com)  Collegians are heading to America’s campuses with textbooks and cell phones in hand, and the nation’s largest wireless 3G network is ready to serve them reliably.

Whether e-mailing a study group, texting plans for a night out with sorority or fraternity friends, sending a picture of the big game to alumni, sharing experiences with friends via social media, or calling home for cash, the Verizon Wireless network is ready.

In and around college campuses nationwide, Verizon Wireless engineers have been hard at work expanding network capacity.  Colleges and universities benefitting from Verizon Wireless network enhancements include:

• Boise State University – Boise, Idaho
• Brigham Young University – Provo, Utah
• Butte College – Oroville, Calif.
• Chabot College – Hayward, Calif.
• College of Eastern Utah – Price, Utah
• Colorado State University – Fort Collins, Colo.
• Dixie State College of Utah – St. George, Utah
• The Florida State University – Tallahassee, Fla.
• Fort Lewis College – Durango, Colo.
• Idaho State University – Pocatello, Idaho
• Mesa State College – Grand Junction, Colo.
• Montana State University – Bozeman, Mont.
• Penn State University – State College, Pa.
• Providence College – Providence, R.I.
• Sierra College – Rocklin, Calif.
• Southern Utah University – Cedar City, Utah
• University of Colorado – Boulder, Colo.
• University of Florida – Gainesville, Fla.
• The University of Montana – Missoula, Mont.
• University of Notre Dame – South Bend, Ind.
• The University of Utah – Salt Lake City, Utah
• University of Wyoming – Laramie, Wyo.
• Utah State University – Logan, Utah
• Weber State University – Ogden, Utah
• Western State College of Colorado – Gunnison, Colo.

These recent network upgrades are part of Verizon Wireless’ ongoing efforts to expand coverage, increase capacity, and enhance the quality of its wireless voice and data network.  Verizon Wireless has invested more than $60 billion since it was formed – $5.7 billion on average every year.

Later this year, Verizon Wireless plans to launch its 4G Long Term Evolution (LTE) wireless services in 25 to 30 markets nationally.  LTE will offer customers who live, work or travel in these markets significantly greater speed and capabilities than even today’s most advanced 3G coverage.  For more information, visit www.verizonwireless.com.  

About Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless operates the nation’s most reliable and largest wireless voice and 3G data network, serving more than 92 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 79,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) and Vodafone (LSE, Nasdaq: VOD). For more information, visit www.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.

Largest Assortment of High Powered LED Bulbs Starting at $19.97

ATLANTA  (Profitable.com)  The Home Depot®, the world’s largest home improvement retailer, today announced it now offers the first affordable 40W equivalent LED – and the widest selection of — high powered, light emitting diodes (LEDs) bulbs on homedepot.com, leading the lighting revolution well ahead of the 2012 legislation phasing out the use of select incandescent light bulbs.

“The Home Depot has stepped forward with the most cost-effective LED, employing the latest and most advanced LED technology available,” said Craig Menear, executive vice president for Merchandising. “Our partnerships with leading LED manufacturers including: Philips, Lighting Science Group and Cree have enabled us to be the first in the market to offer affordable options for a wide array of fixture types for a consumer’s home.”

The Company now offers a proprietary brand of LEDs under the EcoSmart name, including a bulb that retails for $19.97 and is a 40W equivalent, offering 429 lumen with a 50,000 hour expected lifetime, making it the most affordable bulb of its kind in the market to date. In comparison, just two years ago, a 60-watt equivalent cost $90 and a 100-watt dimmable bulb went for $360. In addition, the Company will offer LED bulbs that support many different types of fixtures including: accent lighting, track lighting, room lighting, outdoor spotlights and all are fully dimmable.

By 2012, legislation is requiring that select forms of incandescent bulbs no longer be manufactured in the U.S. and by 2014 most incandescent bulbs will be discontinued, challenging consumers to look for more energy efficient options.

LEDs are innovative technology that help save energy because they use up to 85 percent less energy than incandescent bulbs and up to 50 percent less energy than CFL bulbs without sacrificing light quality. In addition to being extremely energy-efficient, their life is exceptionally long, cutting down both operating costs and inconvenience of maintenance.

All bulbs are currently available on homedepot.com and will be in all U.S. The Home Depot stores by the end of September.

The Home Depot is the world’s largest home improvement specialty retailer, with 2,244 retail stores in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, 10 Canadian provinces, Mexico and China. In fiscal 2009, The Home Depot had sales of $66.2 billion and earnings from continuing operations of $2.6 billion. The Company employs more than 300,000 associates. The Home Depot’s stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: HD) and is included in the Dow Jones industrial average and Standard & Poor’s 500 index.

Actress to Represent Anti-aging Skincare Line

New York, New York  (Profitable.com)  Avon Products, Inc. today announced a partnership with award-winning international actress, Jacqueline Bisset, who will serve as the face of the revolutionary ANEW Platinum line. This new skincare line for women 60+ from Avon’s pioneering ANEW line was developed to recapture the appearance of youthful contours and will debut this fall through Avon Representatives.

“I am excited to be working with Avon on the ANEW Platinum Collection, as it specifically addresses the needs of women with my skincare concerns,” reveals ANEW Platinum spokesperson Jacqueline Bisset. “I want a skincare product that makes my skin look as young as I feel. ANEW Platinum helps recapture the definition and tone of younger skin.”

“Jacqueline embodies everything the ANEW woman aspires to be— beauty, poise and sophistication,” says Andre Baradat, Vice President, Global Skincare Marketing, Avon. “We are thrilled to have such an amazing international beauty icon as the face of our new breakthrough ANEW Platinum line.”

The ANEW Platinum Night Cream and Serum will be available beginning November 2010 in conjunction with an advertising campaign featuring Jacqueline Bisset. She will also appear in the pages of the Avon brochure for ANEW Platinum beginning in November 2010.

ANEW, the pioneering anti-aging line from Avon, delivers transformative anti-aging skincare to millions of women throughout the world. With almost 2400 jars an hour¹, the line has been helping women visibly outsmart the aging process from the brand’s inception in 1992.

Bisset is the most recent star to join Avon’s roster of celebrity partners, including Fergie, Courteney Cox, Patrick Dempsey, Salma Hayek, Reese Witherspoon and Derek Jeter. Available exclusively through Avon Representatives. To locate an Avon Representative, call 1-800-FOR-AVON, or visit www.avon.com.

About Jacqueline Bisset

Serving as the spokesperson for ANEW Platinum, actress Jacqueline Bisset has brought her stunning looks and tremendous talent to over 50 films. Born in Weybridge, England, the highly regarded actress has garnered prestigious awards throughout the world.

About Avon Products, Inc.

Avon, the company for women, is a leading global beauty company, with over $10 billion in annual revenue. As the world’s largest direct seller, Avon markets to women in more than 100 countries through 6.2 million independent Avon Sales Representatives. Avon’s product line includes beauty products, as well as fashion and home products, and features such well-recognized brand names as Avon Color, ANEW, Skin-So-Soft, Advance Techniques, Avon Naturals, and mark. Learn more about Avon and its products at www.avoncompany.com.

Media Contact

Elizabeth Bergman
AVON Products, Inc.
212.282.8197

Susan Goldberg
Tractenberg & Co
212.929.7979

Capturing 10MP Photos and Full HD Videos with 3x Optical Zoom

CHATSWORTH, Calif.  (Profitable.com)  SANYO North America Corporation (SANYO), the company that introduced the first true line of Dual Cameras capable of taking high quality photos and videos from one single unit, today introduces a new Full HD (1920 x 1080 30p) Pocket-Size Dual Camera, model VPC-PD2BK, with embedded software for easy use and sharing on social networks. The camera is the only one of its kind that offers Full HD video recording, 10 MP photo shooting, and 3x optical zoom in a stylish form factor that is about the size of a deck of cards. The camera will be available for purchase in September with an MSRP of $169.99.

The new pocket-size dual camera makes it a snap to shoot, connect, view and share both photos and videos on social networks like YouTube, Facebook, and Picasa. Two microphones on the sides of the camera record stereo sound.

“The new PD2BK delivers amazing 10MP photos and 1080 archive quality video with 3x optical zoom,” says Tom Van Voy, Vice President and General Manager of the Digital Solutions Division for SANYO North America. “Now users have both a convenient, ultra easy form factor and archive quality photos and videos that they will be proud to display on their HDTVs or share with friends and family from their computer.”

The SANYO VPC-PD2BK has a High Speed Sequential Shooting Mode usually found on more expensive or larger cameras. Connect using USB with either a built-in USB connector or with the included USB connection cable.

Files can be saved to SD, SDHC or ultra-high capacity SDXC (up to 64GB) memory cards.

Main Features: VPC-PD2BK

• Full HD videos, 1080 30p (1920 x 1080 pixels)
• 10MP photos
• 3X Optical Zoom
• Stereo Sound Recording
• Compact, candy-bar type form factor
• 37 mm wide-angle lens
• Compatible with SD, SDHC, or SDXC (up to 64GB) memory cards
• Mini-HDMI port
• Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
• Rechargeable via USB port
• Size: 2.48(W) x 0.87(D) x 4.36(H) in
• Weight: 3.7oz

For more information about the SANYO VPC-PD2BK please visit http://www.us.sanyo.com/Dual-Cameras.

About SANYO

SANYO Electric Co., Ltd. is a global, leading provider of energy, environment, and lifestyle applications. Digital Solutions, a division of SANYO North America Corporation (SANYO North America is a subsidiary of SANYO Electric Co., Ltd.), is based in Chatsworth, California, and is a service and sales division with two main groups: Corporate Solutions and Consumer Solutions. The division markets digital projectors, Dual Cameras, digital still cameras, home appliances, security video equipment, audio systems, and portable electronics. For more information on SANYO, please visit http://us.SANYO.com.

Rush recently announced on his syndicated radio show his switch to an electronic cigarette made by Volcano Ecigs, and has reported his positive results in his fight to kick his smoking habit.

Kailua, HI  (Profitable.com)  Conservative political radio personality Rush Limbaugh recently married his longtime girlfriend Kathryn Rogers and made the decision to stop smoking tobacco products, aside from the occasional cigar due to recent health scare reports.

Rush recently announced on his syndicated radio show his switch to an electronic cigarette made by Volcano Ecigs, and has reported his positive results in his fight to kick his smoking habit.

During his radio show on 8/18, Rush received an email from a listener who was viewing his Dittocam during the broadcast. The fan said that he could see Rush puffing away and the smoke was evident on the video. Limbaugh responded that he was not smoking cigarettes, but vaping a Magma electronic cigarette made by the Hawaii based company Volcano.

“No, there’s nicotine, there’s no tar. There’s no tobacco; there’s no flame. You light nothing. It’s no different than Nicorette gum except it actually looks like a cigarette and you get the oral, uh, gratification and so forth, but there’s no carcinogen here… Well, there’s a bunch of brands. Volcano. There’s a great brand, Volcano, out of Hawaii.”

Rush Limbaugh is a wonderful ally for the e-cigarette community to have and could prove to be a great advocate in the ongoing fight against the FDA, Big Pharma and Big Tobacco, and Anti-Smoking groups such as Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) headed by John F. Banzhaf III, a widely known critic of the burgeoning industry.

The popularity of e-cigarettes has grown exponentially since it’s introduction here in the US 3 years ago and is projected to top 100 million dollars of gross revenues this year. Supporters of the electronic cigarette have reported similar results to Rush’s in forums, community blogs, and social networking sites like vapersplace.com and vaportalk.com. These communities have struggled to find a voice in recent fights with the aforementioned government and special interest agencies and Rush certainly brings a bully pulpit from which to voice their concerns and support.

To learn more about Rush Limbaugh and electronic cigarettes, visit the following links:

Visit Rush Limbaugh’s site here: http://www.rushlimbaugh.com

Listen to him discuss the Volcano e-cig here: http://mediamatters.org/mmtv/201008180045

Volcano E-Cigs can be found here: http://www.volcanoecigs.com

Domain name registrar and web hosting company Namecheap has partnered with DIYSEO to help businesses improve their search engine marketing initiatives. This partnership enables special pricing for Namecheap customers on the DIYSEO package.

New York, NY  (Profitable.com)  Namecheap, one of the world’s top domain name registrars and web hosts, has partnered with DIYSEO, the do-it-yourself search engine optimization package for small businesses. This partnership will enable special pricing for Namecheap customers on the DIYSEO package, which helps to give businesses a wide array of information that will help them improve their rankings in the major search engines. “We are extremely excited to be partnering with Namecheap to provide a low cost high value SEO solution to Namecheap clients,” says Dan Olson, CEO of DIYSEO. “The combination of DIYSEO and Namecheap service offerings provides web site owners a way to create a presence online and get traffic from search engines in one solution.”

DIYSEO offers plenty of tips covering on-site SEO, link building, reputation management, local search, and more. Webmasters are provided with actionable information on SEO tactics, inlcuinding measuring page load timesa and building up accounts on social sites in order to boost your link portfolio. There are dozens of additional search engine optimization tips that DIYSEO offers with tools that check whether the actions have been completed by the webmaster to avoid duplicate efforts.

Namecheap offers affordable domain names, web hosting packages, and SSL certificates. Under the partnership with DIYSEO, Namecheap intends to make the DIYSEO opportunity available to all customers. “We’re excited to offer the DIYSEO solution to our customers,” Richard Kirkendall, CEO of Namecheap, says. “Combined with our domain registration, SSL, and web hosting services, integrating DIYSEO is the next step for our customers to take their online businesses to the next level. We’re proud to offer our customers speical pricing on this valuable service.”

Namecheap customers interested in the DIYSEO offerings can go to the DIYSEO sign-up page to take advantage of the promotional opportunity.

About Namecheap

Namecheap is a Los Angeles-based ICANN accredited domain registrar, founded in 2000 by CEO Richard Kirkendall. With over 500,000 clients and millions of domain names under management, Namecheap is one of the top domain registrars in the world. Find out more by visiting us at http://www.namecheap.com.

NEW ORLEANS  (Profitable.com)  Whitney National Bank announced it has been selected to provide check cashing services for claimants who receive compensation from the Gulf Coast Claims Facility administered by Kenneth Feinberg and funded by the $20 billion Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill Trust. Citigroup will act as corporate trustee and paying agent. The trust was established to help those affected by the recent oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

“We are proud that we have been chosen to help with the disbursement of proceeds in partnership with Citigroup,” said Whitney Bank Chairman and CEO John C. Hope, III. “The Whitney has a heritage of supporting our communities. Offering this service for affected coastal residents and businesses is our way of helping bring financial relief to a region we have served devotedly and continuously since our founding in 1883. This is our home and we are committed to preserving our way of life. The Gulf Coast Claims Facility will provide financial relief that will help sustain the long term economic livelihood of these communities.”

Recipients can cash their check at any one of the 160 Whitney Bank locations. “With our extensive Gulf Coast branch network, this is an excellent opportunity to serve our communities,” said David Frady, Executive Vice President, Commercial Banking. To locate the most convenient Whitney branch, recipients can visit whitneybank.com or call 1.800.844.4450.

Whitney Holding Corporation (Nasdaq:WTNY) through its banking subsidiary Whitney National Bank serves the five state Gulf Coast region stretching from Houston, Texas across South Louisiana and the coastal region of Mississippi; to central and south Alabama; the panhandle of Florida; and the Tampa Bay metropolitan area of Florida. For more information, visit Whitney Bank online at http://www.whitneybank.com.

GLENDALE, CA  (Profitable.com)  IHOP, one of America’s favorite restaurants for breakfast, lunch and dinner, has teamed up with Pepsi to give back to its communities as part of the Pepsi Refresh Project. Now through October 2 at participating IHOP Restaurants, purchase an ice-cold Pepsi beverage and Pepsi will make a donation (maximum $20,000 cumulative) to IHOP’s national charity partner Children’s Miracle Network. 

“IHOP takes great pride in giving back to the communities that support our business year round,” said Carolyn O’Keefe, IHOP’s senior vice president, marketing. ”We are proud to partner with the Pepsi Refresh Project to further support Children’s Miracle Network and the hundreds of children’s hospitals located within our communities.”

IHOP supports Children’s Miracle Network each year with its National Pancake Day promotion, and over the last five years has raised more than $5.35 million for Children’s Miracle Network and other local charities. Children’s Miracle Network hospitals treat millions of children across the country each year, and donations to the organization are used to provide access to healthcare services, research and education. 

For more information on the Pepsi Refresh Project, visit www.refresheverything.com.

For more information or to find an IHOP restaurant near you, please visit www.ihop.com. Follow IHOP on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ihop.

About IHOP

For 52 years, the IHOP family restaurant chain has served its world famous pancakes and a wide variety of breakfast, lunch and dinner items that are loved by people of all ages. IHOP offers its guests an affordable, everyday dining experience with warm and friendly service. The first IHOP opened in Toluca Lake, Calif. in 1958, and as of June 30, 2010, there were 1,476 IHOPs in 50 states and the District of Columbia, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. IHOP restaurants are franchised and operated by Glendale, Calif.-based International House of Pancakes, LLC and its affiliates. International House of Pancakes, LLC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of DineEquity, Inc. (NYSE: DIN). 

About Children’s Miracle Network

Children’s Miracle Network is a children’s charity that raises funds for more than 170 pediatric hospitals in North America. Donations to Children’s Miracle Network create miracles at local hospitals by funding medical care, research and education, which benefits 17 million children each year. To learn more go to www.childrensmiraclenetwork.org.

About Pepsi Refresh Project

In an effort to support those who generate innovative, optimistic ideas, the Pepsi Refresh Project (www.RefreshEverything.com), will award more than $20 million in 2010 to move communities forward. Individuals can apply for grants to benefit a variety of projects and site visitors can vote for the best ideas for funding. The Pepsi Refresh Project is an evolution of the Refresh Everything initiative Pepsi launched in 2009, which showed the brand as an optimistic catalyst for idea creation, leading to an ever-refreshing world. Pepsi will fund projects that make a difference in six categories: Health, Arts & Culture, Food & Shelter, The Planet, Neighborhoods and Education.

Measure Protecting Consumers From Overreaching Lenders Now Goes to Governor’s Desk for Signature

LOS ANGELES, CA  (Profitable.com)  The California State Assembly today approved SB 1178 (D-Corbett) by a 49 to 14 vote, extending anti-deficiency protection for consumers who have refinanced their original mortgage loans and now are facing foreclosure. The CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (C.A.R.) is the sponsor of the consumer-protection legislation.

Under existing law, if a homeowner defaults on a mortgage used to purchase a home — commonly referred to as a “purchase money mortgage” — the homeowner’s liability on the mortgage is limited to the property itself. However, homeowners who refinanced the original purchase debt, even if only to obtain a lower interest rate, were not extended the same protections. SB 1178 corrects this unfairness and extends the same protections to consumers who refinance their home loans. 

“Cash-out” debt for home improvement or consumer expenses is not protected by SB 1178. Similarly, additional new debt secured by the home, such as a home improvement loan, is not protected — only original acquisition debt.

“Today’s vote was a victory for homeowners in California, but the fight is not yet finished,” said C.A.R. President Steve Goddard. ”We are urging Gov. Schwarzenegger to swiftly sign into law this crucial piece of legislation. Passage of SB 1178 will ensure lenders underwrite refinance loans at least as carefully as purchase money mortgages and will provide much-needed consumer protection.”

SB 1178 now moves to Gov. Schwarzenegger for his signature. If signed, SB 1178 will become effective June 2011.

Leading the way…^® in California real estate for more than 100 years, the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (www.car.org) is one of the largest state trade organizations in the United States with nearly 160,000 members dedicated to the advancement of professionalism in real estate. C.A.R. is headquartered in Los Angeles.

NEW YORK  (Profitable.com)  What are the most important steps you can take to advance your career in today’s job market? This is the question experts tackled today at a special conference sponsored by DeVry University and hosted by renowned author and career columnist Alexandra Levit.

“There is an overwhelming amount of information out there about employment, career field growth and retraction, and, much of it paints a bleak picture for those who are looking for a job or want to advance in their current position,” said Levit. “I worked with DeVry University to put together this conference so that we could cut through all the complex statistics and trend information, and offer people actionable advice.”

The In-Demand Careers Conference, held at DeVry University in New York, N.Y. (known in New York as DeVry College of New York), featured an interactive panel discussion, online course and career assessment tool demonstrations.

In addition to Levit, the panel included Michelle Mercurio, national associate dean of career services at DeVry University; Erica Orange, vice president of the leading futurist consulting group Weiner, Edrich, Brown, Inc.; Kathleen Frawley, chair of health information technology at DeVry University; and Lindsay Lindstrom, academic developer evangelist at Microsoft Corporation.

“We‘re pleased with the conclusions that were drawn from today’s discussion and appreciate all of the insights that experts shared with us,” said David J. Pauldine, president of DeVry University. “We sponsored this conference as part of our commitment to career-focused education and hope that these insights will help anyone who’s looking to advance in their professional development.”

Levit and the group of industry specialists participating in the DeVry University Conference identified the biggest mistakes and smartest moves for career success.

Job-seekers don’t use their time on social media networking sites wisely. Too much time is spent trying to create a presence on every social media website causing networking overload rather than meaningful connections.

The Smart Move: Instead, job-hunters need to find the right places to connect. Focus on places that offer the best quality and quantity of contacts and companies you are interested in and build on those connections to increase your network. It is not necessary to become a member of every hot new networking site. Consider what purpose each site serves as it pertains to your career goals. Choose wisely.

Job-seekers constantly look at what’s hot now instead of long-term employment trends. Being unaware of which industries have the greatest growth potential is a missed opportunity for many people.

The Smart Move: Understand where the job opportunities are and will be by looking at statistics and broad trends. For example, healthcare management and technology will thrive in the coming years due to an aging population and a focus on providing care to those who have not traditionally been able to afford coverage.

Job-seekers are overly focused on making new connections. They tend to overlook existing and former contacts in pursuit of new ones when networking.

The Smart Move: Revisit old contacts and resources. Networking is not just about creating new contacts. For example, your college career office is a relevant resource for jobs, even if you graduated many years ago. Also, reconnect with former colleagues, supervisors and clients, whether you are using them as a reference or not. They should be an active part of your network too.

Job-seekers consider gaining new skills an impossible undertaking. Many rule out returning to school due to time commitments or expense.

The Smart Move: Do your research and understand what new skills could be good for your career and the best way to get them. For people who are looking to fit career-related education into a life filled with other responsibilities, options exist like the flexible online and in-classroom learning options offered at DeVry University.

Job-seekers confuse demonstrating digital savvy with using casual tech-talk. ‘lol,’ ‘ttyl’ and a range of emoticons and acronyms, or tech-talk have a growing presence in the vernacular of job-seekers. The new abbreviations have moved from being typical of friend-to-friend digital communication to use in interviews and on resumes, often replacing professional communication which employers view as critical.

The Smart Move: Demonstrate that you can balance both tech-talk and formal business communication. Before tweeting, ask yourself whether the 140 characters potential employers might see will add value and show that you will be a professional asset to their company. Take the time to write formal cover letters that demonstrate advanced communications skills. Demonstrating an aptitude in ‘bi-lingual’ communication shows employers that you can advance the company’s goals through multiple channels.

Job-seekers do not have a well-defined personal brand. Today, just communicating that you’ve got the skills necessary for a job is not enough. With so many people applying for the same job, job-seekers need to think about how to stand out. This is particularly true of recent college graduates who have had little experience in trying to differentiate themselves outside their academic world.

The Smart Move: Create a strong and memorable personal brand that sets you apart and remains consistent regardless of your career path. Ask for feedback from personal and professional contacts to identify how you are perceived, your work style, your strengths, what makes you different, etc. Make sure that your social media online and in-person networking reflects your brand. Younger job-seekers should consider taking on multiple internships to learn about where their real passion lies so they can create and live a personal brand that really represents them.

Job-seekers only look to older adult contacts as mentors. While having an older mentor certainly helps to provide career guidance, they can lack a fresh perspective on new trends and technologies that are valued by employers.

The Smart Move: Look to younger friends, family or professional contacts as mentors, especially those that are early adaptors to new technologies. Employers are looking for innovative thinking and younger mentors can explain new technologies and provide a unique way to look at the world around them.

Find more information including video and images from the career experts involved at http://www.pitchengine.com/preview-release.php?id=82738 and www.devry.edu.

About DeVry University

Founded 1931, DeVry University is one of the largest, private sector universities in North America, with more than 85,000 students enrolled in the United States and Canada. The university’s mission is to foster student learning through high-quality, career-oriented education integrating technology, business, science and the arts. With more than 90 locations, DeVry University delivers practitioner-oriented undergraduate and graduate degree programs onsite and online that meet the needs of a diverse and geographically dispersed student population. Home to five colleges of study, including Business & Management, Engineering & Information Sciences, Health Sciences, Liberal Arts & Sciences, and Media Arts & Technology, DeVry University’s outstanding faculty members, work in the fields that they teach, providing students with real-world experiences that prepare them for high-growth careers.

DeVry University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association, www.ncahlc.org. DeVry University, a subsidiary of DeVry Inc. (NYSE: DV), is based in Downers Grove, Ill. For more information about DeVry University, find us on Twitter @DeVryUniv or visit www.devry.edu.

KENOSHA, Wis.  (Profitable.com)  An outbreak of Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) at a restaurant in Kenosha, Wisconsin has been linked to the recall of 380 million eggs and nearly 300 illnesses in the rapidly widening nationwide outbreak tied to Wright County Egg company. A lawsuit originally filed in the Kenosha County Branch of the Wisconsin District Court against the restaurant was filed in amended form to include Wright County Egg by Seattle-based food safety law firm Marler Clark.

The plaintiff ate at the Baker Street Restaurant and Pub in July. Her ensuing illness required her to go to the hospital, where it was determined that she was infected with Salmonella Enteritidis (SE). At the time, the outbreak seemed to be confined to the restaurant, but now that the strain of SE associated with the contaminated eggs has been genetically “fingerprinted”, the Wisconsin outbreak is part of a much larger nationwide outbreak.

Wright County Egg issued a voluntary recall of shell eggs distributed nationwide when the product was linked to SE illnesses. Wisconsin has 21 ill, Nevada 30, Minnesota 7, and California 266 illnesses associated with the outbreak. This confirms CDC revelations that they have seen four times as many SE illnesses than usual reported each week for several months.

“These are the states with the fastest reporting systems, which gives the false impression that their states are where the illnesses are concentrated,” said the plaintiff’s attorney, Bill Marler. “In reality, there are illnesses nationwide that have yet to be counted. We have been contacted by SE victims is states as widespread as Oregon, Ohio, North Carolina and Arkansas. We expect this outbreak to grow.”

About Marler Clark

Marler Clark has represented victims of every major foodborne illness outbreak since 1993. The firm’s attorneys have litigated high-profile food poisoning cases against such companies as ConAgra, Wendy’s, Chili’s, Chi-Chi’s, and Jack in the Box. Marler Clark currently represents thousands of victims of outbreaks traced to frozen meals, ground beef, tomatoes, peppers, lettuce, peanut butter, and spinach, as well as other foods. For further information contact Mary Siceloff at 206-719-4705 or msiceloff@marlerclark.com or visit www.MarlerClark.com and www.marlerblog.com.

Consumer Resource: Downloadable Family Food Safety Guide for Salmonella (PDF)

Pace of Growth Slows From June

WASHINGTON  (Profitable.com)  The Air Transport Association of America (ATA), the industry trade organization for the leading U.S. airlines, today reported that passenger revenue, based on a sample group of carriers(1), rose 20 percent in July 2010 compared to the same month in 2009, marking the seventh consecutive month of revenue growth. The pace of improvement slowed from the 25 percent year-over-year gain realized in June.

Approximately 1 percent fewer passengers traveled on U.S. airlines(1) in July, while the average price to fly one mile rose 17 percent. International passenger revenue rose 36 percent, led by a 52 percent gain in trans-Pacific markets.

“Demand for air travel remains well above last year’s depressed levels, but the industry is mindful of cautionary notes about the health of the overall economy,” said ATA President and CEO James C. May.

U.S. airlines(2) saw cargo traffic, as measured in cargo revenue ton miles, rise 19 percent year over year (8 percent domestically and 28 percent internationally) in June 2010, driven by increased international trade. July 2010 cargo data is not yet available.

Annually, commercial aviation helps drive more than $1 trillion in U.S. economic activity and nearly 11 million U.S. jobs. On a daily basis, U.S. airlines operate approximately 25,000 flights in 80 countries, using more than 6,000 aircraft to carry an average of two million passengers and 50,000 tons of cargo.

ATA airline members and their affiliates transport more than 90 percent of all U.S. airline passenger and cargo traffic. For additional industry information, visit www.airlines.org.

(1) Based on data reported to ATA by Alaska, American, Continental, Delta, JetBlue, United and US Airways; also includes data for Air Midwest, Air Wisconsin, Allegheny, American Eagle, Atlantic Coast, Atlantic Southeast, Chautauqua, Comair, Continental Express, Executive, Freedom, Horizon, Mesa, Mesaba, MidAtlantic, Piedmont, Pinnacle, PSA, Shuttle America, SkyWest and Trans States.

(2) Based on data reported to ATA by Alaska, American, Continental, Delta, FedEx, Hawaiian, JetBlue, Southwest, United, UPS and US Airways.

SANTA CLARA, Calif.  (Profitable.com)  Cameron Diaz has replaced Jessica Biel as the most dangerous celebrity to search for on the Web, according to security company McAfee, Inc. (NYSE:MFE). For the fourth year in a row, McAfee researched popular culture’s most famous people to reveal the riskiest celebrity athletes, musicians, politicians, comedians and Hollywood stars on the Web.

The McAfee Most Dangerous Celebrities^TM study found movie stars and models top the “most dangerous” list this year while politicians like Barack Obama and Sarah Palin are among the safest.

Cybercriminals often use the names of popular celebrities to lure people to sites that are actually laden with malicious software. Anyone looking for the latest videos or pictures could end up with a malware-ridden computer instead of just trendy content.

“This year, the search results for celebrities are safer than they’ve been in previous years, but there are still dangers when searching online,” said Dave Marcus, security researcher for McAfee Labs. “Through consumer education and tools, such as McAfee^® SiteAdvisor^® site ratings, consumers are getting smarter about searching online, yet cybercriminals are getting sneakier in their techniques. Now they’re hiding malicious content in ‘tiny’ places like shortened URLs that can spread virally in social networking sites and Twitter, instead of on websites and downloads.”

Cameron Diaz Searches Yield Ten Percent Chance of Landing on a Malicious Site

McAfee research found that searching for the latest Cameron Diaz pictures and downloads yields a ten percent chance of landing on a website that’s tested positive for online threats, such as spyware, adware, spam, phishing, viruses and other malware.

Fans searching for “Cameron Diaz” or “Cameron Diaz and downloads,” “Cameron Diaz and screen savers,” “Cameron Diaz and wallpaper,” “Cameron Diaz and photos” and “Cameron Diaz and videos” are at risk of running into online threats designed to steal personal information. Clicking on these risky sites and downloading files like photos, videos or screensavers exposes surfers or consumers to the risk of downloading the viruses and malware.

The study uses SiteAdvisor site ratings, which indicates which sites are risky to search for celebrity names on the Web and calculate an overall risk percentage. The top 10 celebrities from this year’s study with the highest percentages of risk are:

“Cybercriminals follow the same hot topics as consumers, and create traps based on the latest trends,” continued Marcus. “Whether you’re surfing the Web from your computer or your phone or clicking on links in Twitter about your favorite celeb, you should surf safely, and make sure you’re using the latest security software.”

Beware of Victoria’s Secret Beauties

Three of Victoria’s Secret top models are among the top ten this year. Searching for downloads of sexy Gisele Bündchen (#4), Adriana Lima (#6), and Heidi Klum (#9) can result in landing on a high percentage of risky sites.

Dangerous Athletes

Tennis stars Maria Sharapova and Andy Roddick came in at (#13) and (#14) respectively. Most of the risky sites were uncovered when searching for screensavers featuring these sexy athletes. David Beckham ranked (#29) and Tiger Woods ranked (#33) this year.

“Bieber Fever” is Not Dangerous

Teen sensation Justin Bieber ranked towards the bottom of the list at #46. This young star recently broke a YouTube record with more views than Lady Gaga (#37). Other young Hollywood stars like Miley Cyrus (#44) and Zac Efron (#40) were also relatively safe to search.

Obama and Palin at the Bottom of the Pack

President Barack Obama (#49) and Sarah Palin (#50) are not among the most risky personalities to search; they ranked in the bottom of this year’s results, moving even lower on the list compared to last year.

Keep Safe with McAfee SiteAdvisor Plus software

McAfee security experts urge consumers to surf safely by using McAfee SiteAdvisor Plus software ($19.99). It displays red, yellow and green icons on the search results page that indicates the safety-level of websites. It also checks the safety of links in e-mail and instant messaging applications, blocks risky websites, adds anti-phishing protection, and helps users more safely surf, shop and bank online. SiteAdvisor Plus software is already included with McAfee Total Protection™ software, a comprehensive security suite that protects against antivirus, anti-spyware, and identity and firewall protection.

Consumers can also safely surf the Web by using the Yahoo! SearchScan toolbar, which only shows ratings for “red” sites that are have potentially dangerous downloads including viruses, spyware and other harmful software.

Web surfers should visit the McAfee Security Advice Center and Facebook page at www.facebook.com/mcafee for information on the latest threats, and tips on surfing safely.

About McAfee® SiteAdvisor® technology

McAfee SiteAdvisor technology protects users from malicious websites and browser exploits, and notifies users whether a site has been scanned by McAfee for potential vulnerabilities. SiteAdvisor technology tests and rates nearly every trafficked site on the Internet and uses red, yellow and green icons to indicate the website’s risk level.

SiteAdvisor site ratings are created by using patented advanced technology to conduct automated website tests. The SiteAdvisor software can be downloaded quickly and for free at www.mcafee.com/siteadvisor. SiteAdvisor software works with Internet Explorer and Firefox.

About McAfee, Inc.

McAfee, Inc., headquartered in Santa Clara, California, is the world’s largest dedicated security technology company. McAfee delivers proactive and proven solutions and services that help secure systems, networks, and mobile devices around the world, allowing users to safely connect to the Internet, browse and shop the Web more securely. Backed by unrivaled Global Threat Intelligence, McAfee creates innovative products that empower home users, businesses, the public sector and service providers by enabling them to prove compliance with regulations, protect data, prevent disruptions, identify vulnerabilities, and continuously monitor and improve their security. McAfee secures your digital world. http://www.mcafee.com

Note: McAfee, the McAfee logo, SiteAdvisor and McAfee Total Protection are registered trademarks or trademarks of McAfee, Inc., or its subsidiaries in the United States and other countries. Other names and brands may be claimed as the property of others. ©2010 McAfee, Inc. All rights reserved. The product plans, specifications and descriptions herein are provided for information only, subject to change without notice, and without warranty of any kind, express or implied.

NEW YORK  (Profitable.com)  With US companies estimated to spend over $1.3 billion in social media in 2010, one 25-year-old social media entrepreneur is taking advantage of the fact that online businesses are willing to invest large sums of cash to buy “friends” and fans on Facebook.

Leon Hill, founder of social media marketing company uSocial.net (http://usocial.net) has been selling targeted Facebook fans to celebrities, governments, small businesses and Fortune 500 companies since late 2009. And according to the young entrepreneur, the ability to buy potential customers on the site was something that people were certainly looking for.

“We simply couldn’t have estimated the response to this service if we’d tried,” said Hill when asked about the launch of the new Facebook marketing service. “It was simply overwhelming.”

The service provided by uSocial allows anyone to buy packages of fans — or “likes” — on Facebook targeted to the specific interests or geographic location a client requires. The company then delivers these fans to a specific Facebook profile by advertising it on the site, and through a myriad of other profiles.

“When put simply, all we do is to advertise a customer’s Facebook account to relevant and possibly interested people within the site, which drives traffic to their profile,” said Hill. “From there it’s up to the user to decide whether they want to become a connect.”

While one might question just how many companies would be interested in the practice of buying fans on Facebook, uSocial’s figures reveal a substantial number. The company says that they’ve so far delivered over 90 million Facebook friends and fans to customer accounts, which accounts for almost 20% of all users on the site.

Further reinforcing just how popular this practice is becoming, an early estimate by uSocial puts global spend on buying Facebook fans at $30 million for 2011.

More information on uSocial’s Facebook marketing service can be gathered by going to http://usocial.net/facebook_marketing.

Media Contact:
 
Leon Hill 
CEO, uSocial.net 
+1-646-233-4409 
http://usocial.net
leon@usocial.net

The Center for Pediatric Dentistry Leads National Effort to Combat Childhood Dental Disease

SEATTLE  (Profitable.com)  At today’s ribbon cutting ceremony, The Center for Pediatric Dentistry, created to address the growing epidemic of childhood dental disease, announced the grand opening of its facility on September 1, 2010. The Seattle-based institute is the first of its kind in the country, providing pediatric dental care, education for dentists and medical professionals, research, and policy under one roof.

An estimated 28 percent of all U.S. toddlers and preschoolers are affected by Early Childhood Caries (ECC), which is the appearance of tooth decay in young children. Tooth decay is the most common chronic childhood disease — five times more common than asthma. More than 51 million school hours are lost every year to dental-related issues, and in the long term, dental disease can be associated with serious illnesses including heart disease and stroke.

Tooth decay is highly preventable through early dental visits, healthy nutrition, and home care. In addition to causing unnecessary pain and suffering, tooth decay impacts the learning, development, self-esteem, and quality of life of children who are afflicted by this disease, sometimes lasting into adulthood. Access to regular care is critical to solving this oral health issue.

“We are seeing an alarming increase in Early Childhood Caries, or ECC. It is truly a national health crisis. This trend, coupled with a shortage of pediatric dentists, educational facilities, and integrated policy approach were the primary reason and driving force behind the formation of The Center for Pediatric Dentistry,” said Dr. Joel Berg, director of The Center for Pediatric Dentistry. “In King County alone there is a four month wait for a child needing oral surgery to repair many teeth. Soon after its opening, The Center for Pediatric Dentistry will reduce that wait time to one week.”

The Center for Pediatric Dentistry is a joint partnership between the University of Washington, Seattle Children’s, Washington Dental Service and its Foundation. It is located in the newly renovated 28,000 square foot Washington Dental Service building for Early Childhood Oral Health. Outfitted with the latest in modern dentistry equipment and practices, the institute will provide dental care, as well as educate parents, dentists, physicians, and policy makers on infant and childhood oral health. The new facility will have the ability to handle 40,000 patient visits annually, serving children from birth to age 21, with an emphasis on early childhood — birth to age three.

“The Center for Pediatric Dentistry will serve as a leader in early childhood oral health, working to improve the health of children throughout the region, the country, and the world,” said Dr. Tom Hansen, CEO of Seattle Children’s. “We are pleased to partner with the University of Washington on this important initiative.”

“I am thrilled by the successful creation of The Center for Pediatric Dentistry,” said Phyllis Wise, provost and interim president of the University of Washington. “Interdisciplinary research and collaboration, exemplified by The Center’s approach, continue to increase in importance. The Center’s efforts to deliver care more effectively, especially to those most at risk, coupled with an emphasis on discovery, are at the heart of the University of Washington’s mission. We have an unprecedented opportunity here to lead the national effort to combat disease and improve the lives of our children at home and abroad. I applaud the work of the experts and partners at The Center for Pediatric Dentistry.”

“We need a giant step forward in disease reduction and we believe that this Center will be the catalyst,” said Laura Smith, president and CEO of the Washington Dental Service Foundation. “This is a unique opportunity to address early childhood oral disease through a multi-pronged approach: expanding the available care to prevent and treat, research on more effective ways to deliver care and focus on those children most at risk, engaging medical providers in prevention by ensuring that their education includes oral health, and identifying needed public policy.” In November 2007, Washington Dental Service and Washington Dental Service Foundation gave the largest combined oral health-related grant in Washington — $5 million — to help finance The Center for Pediatric Dentistry.  

In addition to getting an oral health screening by the first birthday, there are some other common sense steps parents should follow to protect their child’s baby teeth during the critical early years:

• Beginning at birth, wipe your baby’s gums with a washcloth or piece of gauze after feeding.
• Brush your baby’s teeth with a soft toothbrush twice daily as soon as you see the first tooth, usually around six months.
• Using just a small amount of fluoridated toothpaste — the size of a grain of rice — try putting your child’s head in your lap to make it easier to brush their teeth.
• Avoid constant snacking on sticky or starchy foods or sipping sweet liquids throughout the day.
• Choose healthy snacks such as cheese, fruits, or vegetables. Avoid snacks that are sugary, starchy, or sticky. 
• If you put your baby to bed with a bottle, fill it with water.
• Ask your dentist or physician about fluoride varnish, a quick and effective way to help prevent cavities and even reverse early decay.

For more information on the Center for Pediatric Dentistry please call (206) 543-5800, or visit:  http://www.thecenterforpediatricdentistry.com/.