BRAC puts Entrepreneurs to Work Providing Clean Toilets for Millions

Posted by on February 3, 2012 No comments


(PRWEB) February 01, 2012

Rushada Shahad doesnt run your typical home improvement showroom. Youll find no stainless steel fixtures and chrome faucets in her backyard in the Bhaluka subdistrict of rural Bangladesh, where she runs a business selling latrine slabs and pillars. But what this enterprise and others like it lack in luxury, they make up for in impact, providing sanitation to tens of millions of Bangaldesh’s rural poor.

BRAC, a global development organization based in Dhaka, Bangladesh, has announced it is financing the start-up of more businesses like Rushada’s in a bid to reach households trapped in extreme poverty. With a new round of financial assistance from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the organization has begun rolling out the second phase of its WASH [Water, Sanitation and Hygiene] program. The first phase has already reached over 25 million people.

Rushada is a sanitation entrepreneur trained and financed by BRAC. Micro-franchised start-ups like hers are a business in a box, launched by individuals — but with a business model, marketing support and interest-free loans provided by the organization.

The WASH program of BRAC has provided 25.5 million people with sanitation, a remarkable increase, says Babar Kabir, the director of the program. We look forward to the second phase of the program, where well direct our attention to the ultra-poor, or people living at the bottom 10 percent of the economic pyramid. We are working to eliminate open defecation in Bangladesh.

BRAC, by most standards is the world’s largest non-government organization, is currently scaling up market-based solutions such as these — most of them developed in its home country of Bangladesh — in 10 countries in Africa, Asia and the Caribbean.

About 2.6 billion people around the world lack access to basic sanitation, according to the United Nations. Lack of toilets perpetuates a vicious cycle of poverty and malnutrition, with lack of access to clean water and sanitation killing an estimated 1.5 million children under the age of five each year and children missing 443 million total school days annually due to related illnesses.

Late last year, BRAC received a three-year grant of up to $ 17 million from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to expand its BRAC wash program in rural and semi-urban areas of Bangladesh.

ABOUT BRAC

BRAC is a global development organization dedicated to alleviating poverty by empowering the poor to bring about change in their own lives. BRACs holistic approach aims to achieve large scale, positive changes through economic and social programs that enable women and men to realize their potential. Formerly the Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee, BRAC was launched in Bangladesh in 1972 and today reaches more than 138 million people in Africa and Asia through its programs that address poverty by providing micro-loans, self-employment opportunities, health services, education and legal and human rights services. Learn more at http://www.bracusa.org

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Technology Makes a Winning Play with PTPA Media Inc. and Tech Expert Marc Saltzman

Posted by on January 31, 2012 No comments


Toronto, Ontario (PRWEB) January 31, 2012

With so many high tech choices, how does one choose the right tech product to suit their needs? Its not an easy decision, but PTPA Media in collaboration with tech expert Marc Saltzman have made it easier to find that award winning technology gadget.

PTPA Media is North Americas largest parent tester community a credible third party resource for consumers with over 41,000 volunteer testers. PTPA is proud to join forces with Marc Saltzman, one of North Americas most recognizable tech experts specializing in consumer electronics, Internet trends and interactive entertainment, and author of 15 books (including the upcoming Siri For Dummies). He also currently contributes to nearly 50 high-profile publications in Canada and the U.S.

“I’m thrilled to partner with PTPA Media on their first tech-focused campaign,” says Saltzman. “I was honoured to be a judge and I enjoyed seeing how other Canadian families also rated these tech products.” “I hope the winners will benefit from the prestigious PTPA seal, which serves as a coveted endorsement many parents look for before buying new products,” adds Saltzman.

Seeing the PTPA Winner’s Seal on a product package or website helps consumers identify products that have been tested and recommended by their peers. Seeing the seal on a products packaging is the best Peer endorsement you can get says PTPA Founder and CEO, Sharon Vinderine.

Since 2008, PTPA has evaluated thousands of products and services from leading manufacturers and emerging brands. Because independent consumers evaluate these products in their own homes, PTPA winners are chosen based on merit and consumer experience not on commercial considerations.

Products to receive the PTPA Winners Seal of Approval for their 2012 Tech It Up campaign include:

ThinkPad Edge by Lenovo: For those with a home office or office on-the-go, this laptop delivers reliably fast performance, security features, a comfortable to use spill-resistant keyboard with a handy numeric keypad available.

Tablet S by Sony: With something for every member of the family to enjoy in this impressive, vibrant, responsive and intuitive device, users will quickly learn why this Android tablet is a must-have for their familys entertainment and enjoyment.

Addison with Touch20 xt Technology for the Bathroom by Delta Faucet: This faucet will have families oohing and aahing. Users have the choice to either touch anywhere on the faucet or simply place hands underneath for the sensor to turn on the water. No more leaving the water running when brushing teeth or worrying about temperature or pressure.

Inspiron 15R by Dell: For Families looking for a budget-friendly laptop with stylish interchangeable lids and great multitasking capabilities. Perfect for browsing social media channels, uploading pictures or working on a presentation, heres a great pick for them.

About PTPA Media Inc.

PTPA Media provides an objective framework for appraising and promoting new products designed to enrich family living. The company’s mission is to marry innovative companies with discerning consumers, to improve consumer access to quality products and services for their families and homes.

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Related Faucets Press Releases

Ship sinks after collision

Posted by on January 30, 2012 32 comments

Dramatic pictures as two ships collide in dense fog. One them is badly damaged an starts to sink. Four men lost their life in the accident.

www.uniquevanities.com brings you a video on the pros and cons of using a vessel sink to insure that your bathroom design is perfect. We have a contractor on staff and we are here to answer all of your home remodeling questions.

Olson Homes Offers Affordable Flats at Citrus Walk

Posted by on January 29, 2012 No comments

Seal Beach, CA (PRWEB) January 25, 2012

Olson Homes, Southern Californias leading developer of in-town living, announces recently released affordable flats in its new, stylish Citrus Walk community, located in Covinas downtown area. Demand is anticipated to be high for these flats, one of few affordable options currently available in Southern California.

Olson is offering 8 of its 12 single level flats as moderate-income affordable housing units. With prices starting at $ 240,400, these flats are $ 70,000 and $ 80,000 below market rate for comparable homes of this size and spec level, and monthly payments will be comparable to rent in the area.

As redevelopment agencies go through re-structuring and have limited access to funds, affordable housing will become increasingly rare, said Scott Laurie, President of Olson Homes. Olson Homes is proud to build communities that fill cities needs and help make dreams come true. These flats are an incredible opportunity for moderate income families that are renting now, looking for their next step.

Positioned over the new Olson retail storefronts in Covinas revitalized downtown, the affordable flats offer up to 1,311 square feet, 2-3 bedrooms and offer single level living above a 2-car garage. The flats, built to exceed LEED green living standards, feature energy efficient amenities including Energy Star appliances; water efficient and lead-free faucets; highly water efficient toilets; auto shut-off motion sensors in all baths, space saving tankless water heaters, and built-in recycle bins, among many other features.

The Olson Companys numerous successful urban living developments across Southern California over the last 22 years reflect its commitment to todays homebuyer. The Olson Company has garnered prestigious Eliant Awards for homeowner satisfaction, including a recent overall win for Mosaic Walk, which was in first place from almost 900 nationwide home communities. The Olson Company believes in livability, and implements a thoughtful and detail-oriented approach from concept through execution. As part of their unique approach to creating these communities, The Olson Company understands all that goes into buying a new home and provides ongoing tailored services to support the needs of its homeowners, including financial education and the exclusive Homeowner Champion Program.

For more information on the City of Covinas affordable housing program, and how to apply and join the interest list, please visit CitrusWalk.com. To qualify, families need to have incomes in the moderate-income range, as determined by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD).

About The Olson Company

Established in 1988, The Olson Company and the Olson Homes brand are nationally recognized for creating unique in-town neighborhoods in urban communities throughout California. Headquartered in Seal Beach, California, The Olson Company has successfully partnered with governmental agencies and private landowners to create innovative housing solutions designed to fulfill the lifestyle needs of todays buyer.

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Related Faucets Press Releases

Balcony Systems Solutions Ltd Launches a Breakthrough Glass Coating that Transforms Ordinary Glass into Self-Cleaning Glass

Posted by on January 27, 2012 No comments


Lingfield Surrey (PRWEB UK) 26 January 2012

Balcony Systems, one of the UKs leading suppliers of glass balustrading and curved sliding patio doors, has launched its new BalcoNano

H3 Homes Specializes in “Green” Energy Efficient Construction Utilizing Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF)

Posted by on January 26, 2012 No comments


Port St. Lucie, FL (PRWEB) October 24, 2011

South Florida homebuilders H3 Homes are offering new, safe and efficient luxury homes in South Florida with their new Barcelona model. The real estate boom in South Florida has sent home costs soaring, and luxury homes have become prohibitively expensive. In response to this, H3 Homes is offering great luxury homes for affordable prices.

Hurricane-ready with solid-poured concrete walls, engineered roof trusses with hurricane straps, and hurricane impact resistant windows, H3 Homes are safe and built to last. Every H3 Home also comes with high-efficiency Rheem air conditioning units and energy efficient insulation in all the walls (R-24) and ceiling (R-30). Outside the house you will find an oversized covered lanai with a summer kitchen that includes a grill, sink, and mini-fridge, a stamped concrete or paver driveway and walkway and a complete landscaping and irrigation package. The house also comes with a Mediterranean style barrel tile roof, textured stucco with Mediterranean style trim and crown molding, as well as decorative corbels and medallions.

Enter the Barcelona model through the 18 foot grand entry way with French doors, and see the spacious floor plan with oversized family room. These homes also come with a complete luxury package that includes travertine, marble, and hardwood floors, granite countertops, 11-13 foot soaring volume ceilings with a custom trim package including crown molding and window casing and 30+ recessed hi-hat lighting fixtures throughout. H3 Homes leave nothing to be desired, with their Barcelona model that features four bedrooms, with a study or optional 5th bedroom, and four full bathrooms (including a cabana bath), as well as a gourmet kitchen with 42 inch cherry wood cabinets, an oversized pantry, a breakfast/serving bar, and a professional series stainless steel appliance package. The Barcelona model is 4,027 total square feet with 3,019 square feet under air. H3 Homes offers an “On Your Lot” program, where they will build the luxury home on your own land anywhere in South Florida.

H3 Homes aims to deliver high-quality luxury homes at affordable prices. Jim Harkins of H3 Homes states, “We don’t believe the ‘luxury’ should be an upgrade in any luxury home. That is why we include the luxury features and options in our standard package that everyone else charges you extra for.”

H3 Homes chose Port St. Lucie for its Barcelona model, since it is one of the fastest-growing cities in South Florida – and for good reason. Port St. Lucie offers Tradition Field, spring training home to the New York Mets, as well as many historical sites, including museums and naval exhibits. Fishing and golfing are prime in St. Lucie County, with over 15 golf courses and a short drive to the beautiful Atlantic Ocean beaches.

H3 Homes is one of the newest and most exciting home-buying opportunities, with high-quality, safe, luxury homes for an affordable price. With a wide range of location options, H3 Homes is a safe bet for a great luxury home.

For more information about H3 Homes, visit: http://www.h3homes.com

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Related Travertine Sink Press Releases

Cheap Baths Launches New Range of Bargain Double Ended Baths

Posted by on January 25, 2012 No comments


(PRWEB UK) 25 January 2012

With highly regarded brands such as Ceramica, Ideal Standard and Moods included in the range of baths, there is certainly quality to choose from.

Since Cheap Baths launched it has been committed to providing affordable bath tubs and now stocks a variety of different shapes and styles, from standard acrylic and steel tubs to shower and whirlpool baths. The latest additions, the double ended baths, provide great comfort.

Scott Morris at Cheap Baths explained the benefits of a double ended bath: A double ended bath looks a lot like a standard bath tub, however, the taps are positioned in the centre of one of the long sides. This means you can lie in the bath either way, without worrying about leaning against uncomfortable taps. Its a great bit of simple design that makes them enjoyable to use and great to look at.

The designs of the new baths are something to behold. There are choices of rounded or square tubs and all include sleek lines and some great detail. Even the most affordable models available at Cheap Baths look great and are all of the highest quality.

James Hickman, Managing Director at Cheap Baths, said: We already offer a huge range of affordable baths and these new double ended models look great and theyre cheap. Weve always tried to provide the highest quality at the lowest price and now, through varying the types of baths we offer, were able to meet a range of requirements while keeping prices low.

The benefits of a double ended bath are there to see, even more so when they come at such an affordable price.

Scott Morris added: If you combine the double ended bath with some chrome taps its really going to add another dimension to your bathroom. Its a really desirable look and were happy to be able to offer it with this new range.

The new baths are live on the Cheap Baths website, cheap-baths.co.uk, and displayed in easy to find categories. The products themselves are given detailed individual descriptions and high quality images so customers can see the quality and design for themselves before they buy.

Everyone involved in bringing the new range of baths to Cheap Baths is confident they will be a success and are looking forward to bringing even more new products in the near future.

Cheap-Baths.co.uk is a sub-site of Plumbworld, which was established in 1999 by James and Anita Hickman and was later sold to the Grafton Group PLC in December 2006. Plumbworld now employs over 50 people in its purpose built warehouse and offices and has a turnover close to

Guests Enjoy Last Minute Weekend Vacations at Springfield Marriott Hotel

Posted by on January 24, 2012 No comments


Springfield, MA (PRWEB) December 20, 2011

Travel plans change, and while normally this is only a slight nuisance, during the holiday season changing travel plans can be a painboth emotionally and financially. Fortunately, for those looking for last minute Springfield hotel deals, the Springfield Marriott Hotel has the answer. One of the best hotels in Springfield, MA, the Marriott Hotel is offering great last minute weekend hotel rates.

Starting as low as $ 129 USD/night, the last-minute weekend rate is one of the best Springfield hotel deals of the year. Whether traveling for the holidays or simply looking for a quick getaway to escape in-laws, this favorite amongst Springfield, MA hotels offers great low rates to make stays affordable.

Not only does this Springfield hotel offer great last-minute rates, but it also conveniently puts guests close to great seasonal events. One of the most conveniently located hotels in Springfield, MA, the Marriott Hotel is located near great holiday shopping destinations at Holyoke Mall. Home of great shops, the Holyoke Mall can burn through a holiday shopping list. For something a bit more seasonal, this Springfield hotel is also near Bright Nightsa special illuminated holiday display, renowned in the Springfield area. Guests can drive out to the site (or hop on a bus tour) and see thousands of sparkling lights professional setup.

For more information about this Springfield hotel, or to book the exceptional last-minute weekend rate, simply visit http://www.marriott.com/BDLMA

About the Springfield Marriott Hotel

Located near I-90 and I-91, the Basketball Hall of Fame, Six Flags New England, the Dr. Seuss Memorial, the MassMutual Center and other area attractions, the Springfield Marriott Hotel welcomes business and leisure travelers alike. Each of the hotels 262 guest rooms and 3 suites feature Marriotts plush Revive bedding, bathrooms with marble floors and granite sinks. Guests stay connected with high-speed Internet available in all guest rooms and wireless Internet access in public spaces. This Springfield Hotel also features two on-site restaurants: Currents Restaurant, serving classics with a twist, and Champions Sports Bar, a perfect place to watch the big game or grab a cool drink. Guests can also take advantage of concierge services, a fitness center, indoor pool and nearby jogging/fitness trails, miniature golf courses and tennis courts.

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“Last Dinner on the Titanic” Served in St. Louis to Mark The Centennial of the Luxury Liner

Posted by on January 23, 2012 No comments

St. Louis, MO (PRWEB) January 20, 2012

Cruise into the Gateway City to experience the history, fashion, food and music of the elegant Edwardian era during St. Louis Titanic Centennial Weekend, April 13-15, 2012. For more information, click on http://www.explorestlouis.com or http://www.titanic2012stl.com or call 314-657-5033. Tickets for all events and accommodations are also available through Metrotix at 314-534-1111 or http://www.metrotix.com.

One hundred years ago this April, a reporter for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch scored one of the biggest stories of the 20th century the sinking of the H.M.S. Titanic.

St. Louis journalist Carlos Hurd was aboard the Carpathia, the vessel that scooped up Titanics lifeboat-clinging survivors. Hurd and his wife Katherine were the first to interview the eyewitnesses to the downing of the unsinkable ocean liner. He wrote the world-wide headline story on rolls of toilet paper during the voyage that brought those rescued into New York harbor. Today, the legendary ship continues to make headlines in St. Louis where a weekend of special commemorative events will take place to remember this ever-fascinating piece of history.

On Friday, April 13, the Missouri History Museum in Forest Park serves up an Edwardian Champagne Reception prior to a screening of the classic 1958 Titanic film, A Night to Remember. Guests also will view Titanic-related artifacts from the Museums collection.

The highlight of the weekend takes place at the Fabulous Fox Theatre on Saturday, April 14. The Foxs executive chef Stephen Proctor along with the culinary teaching staff at LEcole Culiniare will recreate the original First Class menu served to Titanic guests on the actual 100th anniversary of the last dinner on the ship. The historic menu was meticulously researched to authentically recreate the sumptuous eleven-course meal and accompanying wines. The Titanic-sized menu includes oysters a la Russe, poached salmon, filet mignon, chicken Lyonnaise, roasted squab and Waldorf pudding.

Diners will have the opportunity to experience A Taste of History: Last Dinner on the Titanic while seated on the stage at St. Louis Fabulous Fox Theatre. The evening is black tie. Dinner guests are encouraged to wear vintage attire (white tie for men). Upon arrival, guests will receive a boarding pass and envelope containing the name and biography of an actual first-class passenger from the Titanic. Guests can be assured that the only ice afloat at the Fox this evening will be found in drinking glasses.

Prior to dinner, a period-style cocktail reception featuring live music popular during 1912 will fill the Fox Theatres elaborate Grand Lobby. Between courses, guests will be entertained with incredible stories about the Titanic told by actors portraying passengers and crew who had been aboard the fateful ship including Missouris-own Unsinkable Molly Brown. Proceeds from the evening benefit the Fox Performing Arts Charitable Foundation, a not-for-profit which fosters and promotes the performing arts in the St. Louis area.

Those who survive the Saturday evening soiree can partake in a special champagne brunch at the Piper Palm House, the oldest standing greenhouse west of the Mississippi River. Located in St. Louis Victorian-designed Tower Grove Park, the Palm Houses distinctive architecture, soaring ceiling, stately windows and exotic plants, resemble the Titanics Verandah Caf

Six More Reasons for Team Dysfunction

Posted by on January 21, 2012 No comments


Bennington, VT (PRWEB) January 18, 2012

Deborah Mackin, founder and principal Performance Strategy Consultant at New Directions Consulting, was a featured author in the premier issue of BUILD Magazine from the creators of Inc. Magazine. The article entitled, Six More Reasons for Dysfunction, works off Patrick Lencionis famous “The Five Dysfunctions of a Team” by highlighting six other areas of typical team dysfunction.

Mackin, considered an international authority on teaming after her best-selling Team-Building series (The Team-Building Tool Kit, 1994; Keeping the Team Going, 1996; & The Team-Building Tool Kit 2, 2007) – all published by AMACOM, has worked with teams over the past 27 years. Implementing teams in organizations such as Delta Faucet, Coca-Cola, Alcoa, Sanofi Vaccine Division, and Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory, Mackin comes with a wealth of in-the-field experience, as well as a practical and pragmatic approach to implementing team-based initiatives within businesses. As a follow-up to her successful book series, Mackin created NDCBlogger, where she blogs weekly on teaming, organizational efficiency, implementing change initiatives and building management skills in the leaders of tomorrow.