July 22, 2016 – – LipsigLawyers.com reports on the efforts to improve worker health and safety in the construction industry. The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) is a federal agency tasked with monitoring the health and safety of American workers. It is currently operating with 10 regional offices and 90 local area offices staffed with 2,200 inspectors who are responsible for the well-being of over 130 million workers scattered throughout 8 million worksites. This staggering amount of workers the agency oversees translates to 59,000 workers per safety inspector.

OSHA, along with the help of the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has concluded that over 4,800 workers have died on the job in 2014. Of those lives lost, it is estimated by the BLS that 1 of 5 of those killed were construction workers. In some cases, construction workers are not the only ones affected by unsafe work sites, as was the case with the Tribeca crane collapse that resulted in one pedestrian death.

According to the Wall Street Journal, a proposal was made after the collapse of a 500-foot crane in Tribeca that occurred on February 5th. After this incident, a panel comprised of local technical professionals recommended that black boxes be placed on all city-owned cranes. The proposal calls for the utilization of anemometers which would measure wind speeds. The proposal comes on the heels of the city’s ban on the use of cranes when wind speeds are in excess of 20 miles per hour.

LipsigLawyers.com’s Thomas Moverman supports the increased regulations that have been proposed resulting from the Tribeca crane collapse. Moverman states that the black box regulation is a great first step in ensuring the health and safety of construction workers and is hopeful that such a regulation is implemented in other cities across the country.

For more information on construction injuries, or for a consultation, contact an attorney with Lipsig, Shapey, Manus & Moverman at (646)-846-4496.

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Contact LipsigLawyers.com:

Marc Freund
877-711-9545
mfreund@lipsig.com
40 Fulton St, New York, NY 10038

ReleaseID: 60011495

July 22, 2016 – – SRB Solutions, an online marketing company based in San Diego, CA, is advising chiropractic offices and other health and wellness practitioners to get the most out of the new features of Facebook Live video as a way to get new patients. The company is pointing to three examples at http://www.socialmediaexaminer.com/3-facebook-live-examples-that-generated-sales/?awt_l=P35n.&awt_m=3jPLOT2A_Ir.ILT where companies were able to use Facebook Live to generate more sales.

Stephanie Beck, founder and owner of SRB Solutions, says: “Facebook Live is a fantastic tool for practices. It enables people to connect in real time with businesses and practices that are highlighting new events, new features, or any other information. There have been countless examples of businesses that have used Facebook Live video to generate sales, and we want to show our clients how they can achieve similar results.”

The three companies that have been highlighted for their excellent results using social media are Results Fitness in Santa Clarita; The Funky Fairy, a business in the United Kingdom; and the Busy Mums Facebook Group. Each of these companies approached Facebook Live in a different way, but achieved similar results. They used it to draw attention to an upcoming special event, gave people some behind the scenes views of what happens inside the business, and then followed up with details about what came next.

“Facebook Live is essentially a fantastic tool for patients and consumers to get up close and personal with businesses and practices,” adds Stephanie Beck. “It is about creating a community and engaging with them. People love to be engaged and they love to be heard, and seeing the results of that encourages greater brand loyalty at the same time. It truly is a powerful tool that can make a huge difference.”

Stephanie Beck founded SRB Solutions in order to assist the health and wellness industry make the most of their digital marketing efforts, with Facebook Live being one the areas she is focusing on. Those who are interested in getting more information about using social media to get more clients can check out the company website.

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Contact SRB Solutions:

Stephanie Beck
888-476-9773
info@srbsolutions.net
7614 Beal St.
San Diego, CA 92111

ReleaseID: 60010910

July 22, 2016 – Shop Insurance Canada (ShopInsuranceCanada.ca) says a survey from the Financial Services Commission of Ontario (FSCO) highlights a lack of understanding regarding basic auto insurance coverage. The industry expert says the survey followed other recent studies that show Ontario drivers are not knowledgeable enough. The company says providers, government, and even consumers must do more to understand basic coverage.

A survey conducted by the Financial Services Commission of Ontario (FSCO) shows that only 10 per cent of Ontarian drivers believe themselves to be “very knowledgeable” regarding a basic standard auto insurance policy in the province.

The online study was conducted by EKOS Research Associates in April, so crucially it was before the reforms to the auto insurance benefits implemented on June 1. The survey was carried out among 1,159 Ontarians who represent the nearly 10 million drivers in the province with a margin of error of +/- 2.9 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.

75% of auto insurance policyholders asked said they are familiar with the benefits and coverage they are entitled to in Ontario at a basic level. It is perhaps worrying for the industry that only 10% are very familiar, arguably highlighting that insurance companies and the government are not doing enough to connect with consumers.

Collision coverage is an added paid for extra benefit in Ontario, but interestingly 82% said that they believe it to be part of the standard auto coverage package. This could mean potentially millions of drivers taking out coverage that is not necessarily sufficient for their needs. Even the 10% who claimed high familiarity with basic coverage were misguided by medical, rehabilitation and attendant care, with only 37% knowing it was a standard benefit.

The FSCO warns that it is more important than ever for customers to understand what they are entitled to from a basic policy. The government introduced auto insurance reforms in the province starting June 1, changing significantly the payment structure for medical, rehabilitation and attendant care claims.

“Understanding your policy is the first step towards making sure you are protected if you are ever in an accident,” said Tom Golfetto, executive director of FSCO’s Automobile Insurance Division, in the release. “There are many options that allow Ontarians to tailor their coverage to meet their needs, but drivers need to take a more active role in learning about their policy and making educated and informed decisions.”

Shop Insurance Canada says consumer’s lack of understanding is the fault of the insurance industry, government, and even customers. The online insurance authority says insurance companies and the Ontario government must do more to engage customers on their auto insurance entitlements.

“Not enough is being done by government and providers to ensure drivers claim what they are entitled to. Insurance companies risk alienating customers who think they are being duped into spending more for coverage when their basic policy may be enough. However, customers too can do more to ensure they understand the insurance coverage they take out by reading their policy and asking any questions about what they are entitled to.”

About Shop Insurance Canada
Shop Insurance Canada is a Toronto based company that specializes in delivering the best auto insurance products to customers around Ontario and Canada. The online quoting tool uses an engine that is easy to use and accurate enough to deliver the best auto insurance quotes from over 25 of Canada’s leading providers. Shop Insurance Canada also offers expert advice on the auto insurance industry, as well as guides and news to help customers find the best deal possible.

Shop Insurance Canada
1003-60 Bathrust St.
Toronto, Ontario
M5V 2P4
Canada
416-913-0151

GET IN TOUCH
Luke Jones
Shop Insurance Canada
416-913-0151
https://www.shopinsurancecanada.ca/

Release ID: 247959

July 22, 2016 – Next Apps is pleased to announce the release of Colorcube, a puzzle app that imbues a deeply relaxing mood and allows the player to escape the stress of daily life with vibrant shapes and colors. This addictive app keeps users occupied and entertained for hours with its fun gameplay and ambient background music. Colorcube boasts over 200 puzzles to ensure that users will have plenty of challenges. With 5 levels of aesthetically pleasing gameplay, Colorcube captivates users and fulfills all their puzzle playing needs.

Colorcube was created with puzzle fanatics in mind. By using no scoring system, the game conjures a peaceful and mesmerizing atmosphere in comparison to the overwhelming fast paced and flashy action games. With plenty of puzzles to complete, ColorCube will leave users eagerly awaiting the next time they can play. This app is best at providing consumers with multiple gaming levels with increasing difficulty. What makes this app truly unique is that it allows users to overlap colors. Gamers can drag a shape of a certain color over another one, automatically blending their colors. This feature adds a challenging touch to the app, testing the user’s knowledge of color blending. Not only is the game provocative, it is also beautifully designed with the help of Dieter Stein, winner of several gaming awards including one from the Mensa Society.

Christophe Todts, Creative Partner of Colorcube, states, “Colorcube is taking the App Store by storm, evident by its download success. It is the perfect mix of challenging and entertaining, and people who enjoy puzzles will appreciate the simplicity of this app.” He goes on to say, “While Colorcube is a minimal puzzler, this minimalism is what makes it so unique and exciting. It is a one of a kind app that allows users to really delve into the puzzle they are solving.”

In an attempt to cater to all people around the globe, Colorcube is available in 33 different languages as well as available in various color schemes for people who suffer from color blindness. There truly is no other app like it on the market.

Colorcube is now available for $1.99 in the iOS App Store. For more information, visit their company website at http://www.colorcu.be/#download.

About Next Apps
Next Apps was founded by Wim van Buynder and Christophe Todts. The inspiration for this app came from Next Apps’ passion to create apps on the forefront of the app industry. This company strives to provide gamers with unique experiences through careful analysis, design, and implementation. This goal is best being accomplished with the recent and exciting development of Colorcube.

GET IN TOUCH
Christophe Todts
Colorcube

http://www.colorcu.be/

Release ID: 247791

July 22, 2016 – Greensboro, N.C. – Five First Student employees were honored with top awards from the National School Transportation Association (NSTA) for excellence in service, safety and leadership.

Senior Vice President of Safety for FirstGroup America, Gary Catapano, received the prestigious Distinguished Service Award. The award recognizes individuals who have made a significant contribution to the school bus industry.

Senior Director of Safety Teresa Cole, Multi-Site Safety Coordinator Mike Sloan, and Multi-Site Safety Manager Joanne Waterhouse, were recognized with Golden Merit Awards. The award honors achievements in safety, driver training and operational excellence.

Driver Tiesha “Ty” Donner received the Outstanding Driver Service Award for demonstrating exemplary safety performance and a commitment to excellence.

“Gary, Teresa, Mike, Joanne and Ty have dedicated their careers to ensuring children have a safe and reliable way to get to and from school,” said First Student President Dennis R. Maple. “Their contributions and positive influence have not only been a valuable asset to First Student, but to our entire industry. We are proud they received recognition for their accomplishments.”

As senior vice president of safety, Catapano leads division-wide and field-level management of safety for First Student. He has worked for more than two decades as a transportation safety professional. Catapano has authored many technical papers and manuals on school bus safety as well as co-authored a book on wheelchair transportation. He serves as a member of the Board of Delegates for the National Safety Council (NSC) and the chair of the Safety and Security Committee for the NSTA.

Cole has nearly 30 years of experience in the safety field. She currently serves as the senior eastern regional safety director for First Student. Cole oversees the safe operation of more than 25,000 school buses and drivers in more than 10 states, including Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and New York. She serves as the chairman of the Transportation Division and is a member of the board of delegates for the NSC.

Sloan has been in the transportation industry for 18 years. He is a state certified instructor who provides safety support and guidance to First Student locations in California. Sloan is a member of California Association of Student Transportation Officials (CASTO).

Waterhouse began her career with First Student as a driver in 1984. She currently oversees safety at 20 First Student locations in New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine. Waterhouse was recently voted to the board of directors of the New Hampshire School Bus Association.

Donner from Jefferson City, Missouri, joined First Student in 2014. While transporting students earlier this year, Donner’s bus came under gunfire. She put her training into action and kept all of the students on her bus safe. Her actions earned her praise from the school district and the community.

The employees were recognized during the NSTA annual meeting and convention in Greensboro, N.C. on July 20.

About First Student, Inc.
As the leading school transportation solutions provider in North America, First Student strives to provide the best start and finish to every school day. First Student completes six million student journeys each day, moving more passengers than all U.S. airlines combined. With a team of highly-trained drivers and the industry’s strongest safety record, First Student delivers reliable, quality services including full-service transportation and management, special-needs transportation, route optimization and scheduling, and charter services for 1,300 school district contracts. For more information, please visit firststudentinc.com.

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Jen Biddinger
First Student

http://www.firststudentinc.com

Release ID: 247957

July 22, 2016 – Donny Shimamoto will present Keys to Success for Tax Automation and Outsourcing, a free webinar hosted by SurePrep on August 4th at 1:00pm Pacific Time. The course will evaluate the core practices that a variety of firms interviewed use, to increase growth and profitability.

Client fee pressures are forcing firms to figure out how to get more productivity out of their existing staff while not burning valued employees out. Strenuous hours during tax season and the ever-growing tax code make staying profitable a difficult feat. In research sponsored by SurePrep, IntrapriseTechKnowlogies interviewed a variety of firms to find out how they are shifting away from the general trends and achieving growth and increased profitability. Donny Shimamoto will reveal their keys to success in this informative webinar.

“Not all firms are having the problems that we so rampantly hear about during tax season. It was my goal to find out how these firms were able to create a work-life balance for their staff, and how they were leveraging tax technologies.” Shimamoto continued, “Each attendee of the webinar will receive a copy of the Keys to Success for Tax Automation and Outsourcing whitepaper to help them implement some of these ideas.”

Donny is the immediate past chairman of the AICPA’s Information Management & Technology Assurance Executive Committee, and former member of its Governing Council and Assurance Services Executive Committee. An honoree of multiple industry and professional awards, he has worked on several international collaborations between the AICPA and CIMA related to business intelligence and is also a frequent speaker on how management accountants can help add-value to their organizations.

Donny has been recognized as one of the Top 100 Most Influential People by Accounting Today in 2013 and 2014, a Top Thought Leader in Public Accounting by CPA Practice Advisor from 2012 to 2016, he received the 2009-2010 President’s Award from the Hawaii Society of CPAs, was named to CPA Technology Advisor’s 40 Under 40 list in 2007, 2009 and 2014, a Hawaii Top High Tech Leader in 2004, and was recently awarded the AICPA Standing Ovation Award.

About Donny Shimamoto
Donny C. Shimamoto, CPA.CITP, CGMA, is the founder and managing director of IntrapriseTechKnowlogies LLC, a specialized CPA firm dedicated to helping small businesses and middle market organizations leverage strategic technologies, proactively manage their business and technical risks, and enable balanced organizational growth and development. Donny (@DonnyITK) is a recognized thought leader in the Accounting Technology performance management fields. He is dedicated to helping accountants and small businesses become more efficient using the most innovative tools and systems available to generate higher profits. For more information, visit http://www.donnyitk.com/ where you can find Donny inspiring the next generation of business professionals in his personal blog on leadership, business, IT and his life as a technical CPA.

About IntrapriseTechKnowlogies
IntrapriseTechKnowlogies LLC (ITK) is an advisory-focused CPA firm specializing in organizational development and business process outsourcing for small businesses, middle market organizations, and nonprofits. With expertise in right-sizing enterprise processes and leveraging cost-effective enterprise technologies that enables small and mid-sized organizations to gain a competitive advantage, ITK is focused on providing executive-level technology management, enterprise architecture, business performance management, information architecture and management, technology risk management, and knowledge management consulting services. Visit http://www.intraprisetechknowlogies.com/ for more information.

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Donny Shimamoto
IntrapriseTechKnowlogies

http://www.intraprisetechknowlogies.com

Release ID: 247962