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Calgary, Canada (PRWEB) December 15, 2004

Based on the past month of worldwide counterfeit enforcement activity (investigations, raids, seizures, arrests, charges, convictions, sentences, public announcements), as reported through the DOPIP Security Counterfeit Intelligence Report, more than 197 incidents were analyzed.

The profile of the average counterfeit operation:

Involves 7 people, averaging 32 years old. The youngest person involved was 13, the oldest was 59.

Sells more than 2,500 counterfeit items valued at $ 2,946,805 USD items before being caught.

When caught, more than 20,000 counterfeit items are seized valued at $ 3,100,000.

The most profitable items to counterfeit (based on seizures and losses) include:

Financial Instruments, $ 598,977,750 (currency, checks, money orders)

-Digital Entertainment, $ 377,579,600 (CDs, DVDs, software, etc.)

Drugs, $ 200,100,300 (medications)

Identification, $ 9,258,900 (passports, drivers licenses, birth certificates, etc.)

Clothing & Accessories, $ 4,966,100

Other Documents, $ 2,860,350

Toys & Games, $ 1,800,000

Other Goods, $ 1,776,000

Electronic Equipment, Industrial Goods, Food & Alcohol, Cigarettes, and Computer Equipment, $ 246,200

The most popular merchandise to counterfeit (based on incidents) includes:

Louis Vuitton

Gucci

Nike

Adidas, Armani, Bata, Boston Red Sox, Burberry, Calvin Klein, Canon, Chanel, Coach, Coca-Cola, Energizer, FCUK, Fendi, HP, Hugo Boss , Lego, Microsoft, Movado, Oakland Raiders, Pittsburgh Steelers, Prada, Rangers, Umbro, and Viagra were also popular.

11% of counterfeiters use false identification to avoid detection.

Fake identification is most likely to be involved in financial crimes, such as check and credit card fraud.

Counterfeiters which focus on producing identification profit the most from reproducing drivers licenses (27%), visas (24%), passport (21%), social security cards (12%), other identification cards (9%) and birth certificates (6%).

The most common methods of counterfeiting are:

Digital Entertainment, using CD and DVD burners

Drugs, repackaging in used medication containers

Electronic Equipment, contracting Chinese companies to counterfeit the items.

Financial Instruments, using computers, printers, and scanners

Identification, using computers, printers and laminating machines

Other Documents, using computers, printers and copiers

Other interesting November facts:

The best locations to manufacture counterfeit items are China (44%), Pakistan (22%), followed by India and Singapore.

33 Countries reported counterfeit activity in November (Australia, Bangladesh, Bulgaria, Canada, China, Finland, Greece, India, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Lithuania, Malaysia, Malta, New Zealand, Pakistan, Philippines, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, UAE, Uganda, UK, USA, Vietnam, and Zambia).

In summarizing the months activity, Glen Gieschen, Managing Director of Gieschen Consultancy stated “November was a tremendous month for counterfeiting culminating in more than $ 1 Billion (USD) of activity. A number of extremely large and sophisticated counterfeit operations were identified and closed which signals an end to these investigations and the start to new ones. Much of the activity was made public and widely covered in the United States and United Kingdom in November to raise the level of awareness of counterfeiting to the general public before the Christmas season. It is no surprise that December is a month where consumers especially fall victim to counterfeit schemes, from counterfeit money orders, to currency and merchandise. Thus educating the public in advance of a busy shopping season is an effective method to show them how to identify counterfeit items and understand the detrimental effects of this activity. Also this information provides a level of deterrence for those thinking about setting up or continuing their counterfeit manufacturing or distribution systems.”

The full report for November can be purchased from Gieschen Consultancy for $ 110 USD or $ 25 for DOPIP subscribers.

About DOPIP SCI Reports

DOPIP is a powerful source of information regarding illegal activities such as counterfeiting, forgery, product tampering and diversion. It provides breaking news reports and analysis relating to document, product and intellectual product security. Security technology providers, enforcement agencies, trade organizations, and brand owners will find this information indispensable for detection, deterrence and prevention. DOPIP SCI Reports is available as an annual subscription for $ 295 USD.

For more information visit http://www.goldsec.com/Security_Updates.htm.

About Gieschen Consultancy

Gieschen Consultancy, is a trusted provider of in-depth information, analysis and reporting for the document, product and intellectual property security industry. Gieschen Consultancy applies more than 10 years security experience to assist clients in developing anti-counterfeiting, brand protection and enforcement solutions. Through the knowledge of security technology, criminal Modus Operandi (methods of operation), legal and political issues, statistical information and competitive intelligence, effective strategies are developed, implemented and monitored.

For more information visit http://www.gieschen.com/.

Contacts:

Glen Gieschen

Managing Director

Gieschen Consultancy

Glen@Gieschen.com

Phone 403-256-5680

Calgary, Alberta Canada

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Sarasota, FL (PRWEB) April 5, 2005

Hazing; Alcohol and Illegal Substance Abuse; Unsportsmanship Conduct and Violence; Sexual Misconduct and Date Rape; Gambling, Bribery and Scalping” in sports today, Why?. Our five-part Series will answer the “Why” of such anti-social behavior among athletes. Our experts will discuss the root of these problems, and how they can be prevented. We will hear from parents, former athletes and victims that will tell their side of the story, and discuss the impact that such anti-social behavior have had on their lives.

The Series will broadcast from April 5th through May 3rd 2005 every Tuesday at 8:00pm (Eastern), 7:00pm (Central) and 5:00pm (Pacific) on voiceamerica.com.

04-05-05:The First Part will broadcast on April 5th, and the title of the show is “Hazing, The Unlawful Ritual In Athletics.” The show will deal with hazing practices in college and professional sports among both male and female athletes. Our Anti-Hazing guest are Reggie Berry, a former San Diego Charger; Henry “Killer” Lawrence, a former Oakland Raider; Dr. Brian Crow-An Associate Professor of Sport Management at Slippery Rock University In Pennsylvania; and Dr. Ricky L. Jones, the author of “Black Haze.”

04-12-05:The Second Part will broadcast on April 12th, and our title is: “Drugs For Glory: A Parent’s Guide To Drug Prevention For Athletes.” Today, we are witnessing a “Silent Drug Epedemic In Sport Today.” From therapeutic drugs used for specific medical indications; to “street drugs” or “pleasure drugs” used to alter mood or perception, such as narcotics, which increase pain threshold and produce euphoria; and to steriods to other performanc-enhancement or eregogenic drugs used for the purpose of gaining athletic advantage. There is evidence that this drug epidemic have pervade professional sports, college, high school and junior and middle school athletics. With millions of dollars in endorsements, broadcasting rights, scholarships and notoriety on the line, many athletes used these drugs unaware of the potential long-term consequences. Two noted clinicians, Dr. Danato Cimini of the Eastwood Clinic in Detroit, and Dr. Christine Cauffield of the Coastal Behavioral Healthcare,Inc.,of Florida each specializing mental health and substance abuse treatment services will join the Sport Maverick hosts and discuss the long-term history of illegal drugs in sports and long-term consequences. The Sport Panel will also discussed, why “Steriods” and other drugs have become the “athletic cocktail” for some athletes and not for others. These experts will also discuss traditional and non-traditional methods used to prevent substance abuse among athletes.

04-19-05:The Third Part will broadcast on April 19th, and we will discuss “Unsportmanshiplike Conduct And Violence Among Athletes and Fans.” Sport Mavericks hosts will present special sports panel guests, Fred Engh,President and Founder of “National Alliance For Youth Sports,” and Lowell J. Grabau Ph.D., President and Founder of “National Institute of Sports”, (NISP). Fred is the author of “Why Johnny Hates Sports,” which explores the disturbing state of organized youth sports in America. He has been involved in youth sports for more than 30 years as a coach, athletc director and sport educator, and he is one of America’s leading experts in the youth sports field. Dr. Grabau experience spans 35 years as a teacher, trainer, and licensed psychologist. As President of NISP, he directs an organization that trains and certifies sports professionals such as coaches, psychologist, therapist, trainers and other professionals to deal more effectively with athletes at all levels.

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(PRWEB) June 12, 2002

Vision: Give Kids equal Opportunity and Access to the Best Sports Camps

Jami Dansingburg, President of http://www.sportscampsonline.com, remembers a friend who decided she was going to do whatever it took to play with the best female soccer players in the nation. She decided that the best place to test her skills was to attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, soccer camp.

The women’s soccer team had won eleven of the past thirteen national championships and was headed by the national team coach. As it turns out, her friend was offered a scholarship later that summer to play for Chapel Hill.

Not every kid that goes to a sports camp earns an opportunity to play for a championship NCAA team. However, providing more kids with an opportunity to go to camp is something that Dansingburg takes very personally. As a twelve-time high school letter winner, four sport collegiate athlete, and semi-pro athlete, Dansingburg knows what it takes to compete and play at the highest level. “Sports camps are an excellent way for youth athletes to learn new skills and improve existing ones,” said Dansingburg. “For the intermediate to advanced player, sports camps represent an opportunity to get to know a college team and what it takes to play at that level.”

Most advanced sports camps range in cost from a couple hundred to several thousand dollars depending upon the organization, school and location. “Many kids don’t have the opportunity to even think about going to sports camps because their families just can’t afford it,” said Dansingburg. Having attended and coached at numerous sports camps herself, Dansingburg knows what she is talking about. “Some of these kids have real talent that goes completely unnoticed because of their economic condition. We want to establish the scholarship fund as a way to help some of these kids get the opportunity to go to camp and realize their full potential,” she went on to say.

SportsCampsOnline.com’s vision is to provide a community for youth interested in expanding their athletic horizons. Their extensive directory of sports camps is searchable on all fields saving youth athletes and their parents valuable time in finding the sports camp that is right for them. Sports camps have the ability to add their camp information to the SportsCampsOnline.com directory free of charge. With over thirteen million sports camps listed on the Internet, the need for this type of effectiveness and efficiency is obvious.

In addition to the most extensive sports camp search functionality on the Internet, SportsCampsOnline.com has partnered with college recruiters, sports career organizations, travel services and coaching organizations to provide a true community for youth athletes. All athletes, parents and youth sports enthusiasts are welcome to subscribe to Sports Camp Source — their monthly online newsletter.

Dansingburg’s ultimate goal is to establish several free camps in urban and rural areas, after the model set by Roland Williams of the Oakland Raiders. Williams, a Rochester, NY native runs a football camp in that city for any and all kids who wish to attend, free of charge. “We would like to bring in pro athletes and top coaches for the kids to meet. The opportunity for these kids to work and train with these professional athletes and coaches provides them with a glimpse of what it takes to play or coach professional sports,” said Dansingburg.

SportsCampsOnline.com is an online community for youth athletes and their parents interested in learning more about all aspects of youth athletics. Their extensive directory of regional, national and international sports camps is searchable on all fields, providing efficiency and effectiveness through the best possible sports camp search results available on the Internet.

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More Oakland Raiders Press Releases

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San José (PRWEB) March 13, 2004

GNI and the City of San José today launched free wireless Internet service in three popular public spaces in downtown San José.

“Free Downtown WiFi” now makes it possible for people to use the Internet outdoors in Plaza de Cesar Chavez, Fairmont Plaza, and San Pedro Square using their laptop computer or personal digital assistant (PDA).

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(PRWEB) April 6, 2004

Legalball.com is happy to announce the launching of its website. This weeks topices include:

Why Maurice Clarett Won’t Impact the NFL; why NBA Stars Kobe Bryant, Allen Iverson and Jason Kidd were Arrested; why Terrel Owens, Bill Romanowski and Sammy Sosa Should Be Sued; why Insurance Is Ruining Major League Baseball; why Tiger Woods Is No Longer As Dominant; why The Oakland A’s Can’t Get A New Stadium, why Professional Cyclists Keep Dying; Why the CU sex scandal is just the tip of the iceburg; why the Red Sox will not break the curse; and why the Atkins diet is not the key to a healthy athletic lifestyle.

Our Sports law experts include Keith Dobkowski.

Keith Dobkowski earned his Bachelor’s Degree at University of Oregon (GO DUCKS!) in Political Science in 1997. He earned his Juris Doctor from University of San Francisco, School of Law in 2003.

As a lifelong sports fan, Keith Dobkowski was given a dream job opportunity to write about sports law for Sports Business Simulations, Inc. After several published pieces, Keith Dobkowski was promoted to Vice President of Sports and Legal Research.

Keith Dobkowski created Legalball.com in partnership with Sports Business Simulations in order to have a content-based site offering sports fans insight to into Sports Law and Sports Business issues.

Keith Dobkowski’s articles include a 35 page report on Disability Insurance in Major League Baseball and its affects on free agent contracts, properly titled, “Disability Insurance 3, Baseball Fans 1.”

Keith Dobkowski’s legal expertise and sports knowledge will provide you, the fan, with the indepth knowledge to understand the fine workings of sports at legalball.com.

Legalball.com sports business experts include Jeremy Arnold. Jeremy Arnold earned his Bachelor’s Degree at University of Colorado in Communication. He has also received his certification as a Personal Trainer from the International Sports Sciences Association.

Combining a prior career in hi-tech sales and

marketing with current involvement in the Health

and Fitness industry, Jeremy Arnold brings a unique ability to blend extensive business experience with the world of athletics.

A lifelong sports fan and former national level

cyclist, Jeremy Arnold’s aim is to provide critical insight into legal and business issues for a wide range of sports at Legalball.com.

In April, Legalball.com will discuss such topics as:

Why the curse of the Redsox remains, with an exclusive interview of former Redsox sports psychologist Dr. Doug Gardner.

Why the most important number in the NFL draft is measured in dollars and not height, weight, bench press or 40 times.

Why the University of Colorado sex scandal is just the tip of iceberg.

Why cortizone and other pain relivers are as dangerous to professional sports as steroids.

Why professional cycling offers Major League Baseball the proper path to follow in drug testing.

Further, Legalball.com is happy to announce a weekly contest searching for sports writers. Everyweek legalball.com will publish an article written by you, the sports fan. See legalball.com for details.

Legalball.com is estatic to announce the representation and promotion of The Vegan Bodybuilder, Kenneth Williams. Kenneth Williams is a champion level bodybuilder whose diet is strictly vegan. Kenneth is competing in the Oakland Raider’s Silver and Black event in May and hope to compete internationally at the Natural Olympicos next year in Spain. Legalball.com and Kenneth Williams will make a powerful and healthy combination.

Finally, legalball.com is happy to announce our interactive watering hole forum where sports fans come together to discuss issues in sports in list form. This week, best nicknames in sports.

So to see where sports law news and sports business news meet, make sure to visit legalball.com.

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Southfield, MI (PRWEB) December 30, 2004

Ed Dena, General Motors Minority Dealers Association (GMMDA) member and president of Bret’s Auto Center in Dinuba, Cali., was named the 2004 Tulare Kings Hispanic Business Chamber Business of the Year at the chamber’s annual awards dinner. Dena received the award in honor of his contributions to his community and his efforts to provide promotional development to his employees.

“We are very proud of Ed and this wonderful accomplishment,” said GMMDA president Gregory Jackson. “In his short time as a dealer, he has been very aggressive about establishing excellent business practices and investing in his community. These are the essential ingredients for long-term success as an automotive dealer.”

Dena says the award is the result of a team effort at Bret’s Auto Center. “Our mission statement is to always be the best for our customers,” he said. “We take every opportunity, big or small, to give back to the community.”

Ed Dena became president of Bret’s Auto Center Dinuba on November 4, 2003. Both Dena and his employees and managers are actively involved in the Dinuba community. Bret’s has demonstrated a full commitment to bettering the community and active involvement with the Hispanic communities throughout Tulare, Kings, and Fresno Counties. Bret’s Auto Center has sponsored numerous community events including the Cinco de Mayo Queen and Princess Pageant, Miss Dinuba Pageant, American Cancer Society, Eyeglasses Donation for the needy and Dinuba Downtown Car Show Event. They are also an official car sponsor the Oakland Raiders.

Bret’s has provided for and contributed to the community by providing scholarship and internship opportunities to minority high school and college students through the GMMDA scholarship and internship programs. They have also introduced companies and individuals to the GMAC Adelante Program, an enhanced vehicle-lending program that is open to all ethnic backgrounds, with a special focus on Hispanics. The program educates Hispanic Consumers on interest rates and utilizing credit wisely. They have also held seminars at local businesses and events.

Dena lives in Dinuba with his wife, Ida, who is a member of the General Motors Minority Dealers Association Spouses Association. They are the parents of two daughters, Ashley, a high school senior, and Catherine, a sophomore at the University of California at Santa Barbara. In addition to working at the dealership, Dena enjoys spending time with his family and nurturing his new-found love of golf.

The GMMDA is a non-profit organization that represents the interest of over two-hundred minority owned General Motors dealerships across the country. The mission of the GMMDA is to promote, protect and encourage the viability and profitability of all existing General Motors dealers, and to encourage, through cooperative efforts with General Motors Corporation, the installation of new minority dealers in viable and profitable opportunities.

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North Hollywood, CA (PRWEB) May 6, 2006

It’s about that time again! TRUE Magazine is back with their annual anniversary party. On May 17, 2006 TRUE will descend on the sexy and hot Hollywood & Highlands Nightclub to celebrate our 6th Anniversary.

Our 6th Anniversary Party will be hosted by platinum selling artist, Busta Rhymes, who graces our June/July cover. With his new album, The Big Bang scheduled to be released in June with production by Dr. Dre and the club banger, “Touch It” heating up airwaves it promises to be the hottest party to jump off the summer!

Here is the official lineup TRUE Magazine’s 6th Anniversary Party, guaranteed to kick off the summer.

*LOCATION:

The Highlands Night Club

6801 Hollywood Blvd. 4th Floor

*SHOW HOSTS:

Busta Rhymes

*CELEBRITY GUESTS and APPEARANCES: (*Subject to Change)

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(PRWEB) September 29, 2005

In earlier columns we’ve discussed the effect of discounted vigorish on major sports. This week, I’d like to take a closer look at proposition bets. A proposition (or prop bet) is simply a wager on something other than a game spread or total. It can cover anything from which of two batters will get more hits, to who will win the next Heisman trophy. Proposition wagers are typically available on any major sport.

Why should you bother with propositions? The answer is simple – these are the easiest for a player to beat. Most bettors will be shocked to learn this, but sports books routinely lose money on props and oftentimes a break-even day is considered a small victory.

When you see a spread on an NFL game, that spread is the result of at least a dozen separate odds makers whose collective opinion is merged to form the market. When you wager on a proposition, it’s typically your opinion versus one odds maker. If you know more than that one odds maker, you are going to get the best of it.

Sports books know that propositions are dangerous. Many try to protect themselves by using 30 or 40 cent lines with low wagering limits. Some will even force prop players to mix their action by playing regular lines as a condition of continued proposition wagering. Many professional players will confirm this – for the smaller players, betting on props is one of the best ways to win long-term. And by playing at low juice, the odds will be even more in your favor.

At PinnacleSports.com we use a 16 cent line on props, which offers up to 60% greater value than other books. With hundreds of propositions to choose from including props on every major sport as well as fantasy football player match-ups, reality TV shows, poker tournaments and even the World Chess Championships, there is literally something for everyone.

Why do sports books continue offering props? At Pinnacle Sports we have noticed two things that make props worth offering: 1) new players drawn by props never leave after trying the rest of the site; and 2) prop players branch out to the rest of our discount-priced wagering like on the games below, which have seen interesting betting patterns early in the week.

Florida (-4 +106) at Alabama

Urban Meyer has won his last 20 games as a head coach, a streak beginning on November 1, 2003 while coaching Utah. He hopes to earn his fifth win this season leading the Gators into Tuscaloosa. This match-up features two of the strongest defenses in the country; Florida allowing 232.5 yds/game, and Alabama permitting 223 yds/game.

Beware the early money, as it is usually sharp. This game was no exception with regular sharps all over Alabama early. This opened at Alabama +4 +105, and was bet down to +4 -116 (or +3.5 -110). We are seeing some opposition at -4 -101, but we are unsure which way this game will head closer to the weekend.

Notre Dame (+3) at Purdue

Weis’s Irish have opened up their offense, averaging 295 passing yards per game, and 475 total yards per game. Notre Dame has not generated that much offense in any of the last 10 years. Purdue has pursued a more balanced attack, averaging 218 passing yards, and 210 rushing yards per game. Both defenses seem soft and each allows roughly 300 yards per game. Statistics are a dangerous tool to use for odds making in NCAA football, especially in the early season. Statistics get distorted when a high tier team plays down (like Notre Dame against Pittsburgh and Washington, or Purdue versus Akron).

We opened this game at Purdue -1.5. Around 5:00pm on Sunday, other books opened at Purdue -3.5.The sharp players moved in like vultures, picking off the gap. Able to take Purdue -1.5 -105 and Notre Dame +3.5 at other books, the market squeezed to a neutral point around -2.5 / -3. Due to our opener, a majority of the early money was on Purdue. Once the price stabilized, we were still seeing sharp action on Purdue at -2.5/-109 and -3/+107.

Dallas (+3) at Oakland

The Raiders are 0-3 after losing competitive games to New England, Philadelphia and Kansas City. Oakland is still favored at home though against the 2-1 Cowboys. Dallas struggled to win last week against San Francisco, scoring two 4th quarter TD’s to win 34-31.

Games lined on a “3″ are both interesting and frightening for a line manager. We opened the game at +3 +105, and are seeing the sharper players divided on this game. Raiders backers are using point buy/selling to play -2.5, -3 and -3.5. We have other professional players on Dallas +3 and +3.5 but none are selling down to +2.5. If the game lands on the “3″, we end up paying wagers on both sides of the game.

Indianapolis (-7) at Tennessee

Indianapolis disappointed its backers last week. After getting first and goal from the Cleveland 7 with 88 seconds left, Indianapolis knelt on the ball 3 times. This secured an injury-free win for the Colts and a loss for those betting Indianapolis at -13.5 last week. The Colts defense has played well allowing only 16 points the entire season. Meanwhile, Tennessee has had offensive problems, managing only four offensive touchdowns in three games.

We opened this game at -6.5 flat, and all the early action was on the Colts. When it was bet down to -6.5 -109, we started to get money trickling in on the dog, mostly bought up to +7. For now, we are siding with the dog bettors and accepting Colts money by holding our price. As with all games lined on the “3″ and “7″, we are seeing a lot of point buying through the key number.

San Diego at New England O/U 47

This year, games with these two teams have averaged 49 points per game. It is early in the season though, and team statistics tend to revert somewhat towards the mean.

We opened this with a total of 45 and were flooded with over money at a ratio of eight wagers on the over for every one accepted on the under. Even after we moved to 47, there is still upward pressure as part of the market is trading at 47.5. Those who played over 45 got great value, but how much? The 45 hits about 3% of the time; the 46 hits 1.5% and the 47 hits 3% of the time. Therefore over 45 should win a little over 55% of the time. Thanks to -105 pricing, those early sharps netted at least an 8% theoretical yield on their bets.

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Bryn Mawr, PA (PRWEB) July 26, 2006

Approximately 3,000 new designees and their guests are expected to attend The American College?s 2006 Symposium and Commencement Event in San Francisco, November 8-10, 2006. The multi-day event will feature a series of high-impact speakers and information-packed seminars along with a superb commencement ceremony celebrating the educational achievements of some of the nation?s most knowledgeable financial service professionals.

?Professionals who hold designations and degrees from The American College represent the industry?s finest,? said Larry Barton, Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer of The American College. ?More graduates from The College have gone on to become Presidents and CEOs of major financial industry companies and professional associations than from any other institution of higher learning.?

?Since our graduates are some of the nation?s financial leaders, we wanted to create a dynamic educational event that provided in-depth knowledge that both experienced graduates and new professionals would find rewarding,? continued Barton. ?The slate of speakers and seminars at this year?s Symposium and Commencement will provide attendees with the latest information on industry trends and opportunities with a special emphasis on baby boomers and their financial needs.?

Highlights of the pre-symposium activities include Residency I and II for the MSFS degree. These intensive multi-day classroom learning sessions will be offered prior to commencement. This allows students who have completed the self-study requirements to participate in the commencement ceremonies immediately following the residency program.

The American College?s pre-symposium activities will also feature three dynamic educational lectures. Faculty members Ted Kurlowicz, JD, LLM, CLU

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Sunnyvale, CA (PRWEB) May 8, 2007

Football season ended with the Super Bowl in February. And yet, the sports news anchors and analysts are at it again, clamoring on about top college football players as they turned pro and about the players who are left as free agents. The National Football League’s (NFL) annual player draft took place a couple of weekends ago. It was a lot like a bunch of guys getting together on a vacant lot, sizing up a field of friends, figuring out who they want most, and then choosing them to play on their team. Except, the draft is bigger — much bigger and instead of a vacant lot, they were in New York City’s Radio Music Hall. As a result of the Draft, the football teams have new players and new hope for the upcoming season. A new book just out is sure to bring new hope to those fans who are not only confused about the NFL Draft, but may not understand much about football at all. The book, Putting on the Blitz: The Football Book for Women, is sure to help the novice learn more about the game.

For football fans, the NFL Draft is a huge part of any football season. The spectator who watched the Draft probably enjoyed every last detail from Oakland Raiders’ 1st pick of JaMarcus Russell, quarterback to the very last 255th pick of Ramzee Robinson corner back, by Detroit. ESPN reports a total audience of 38 million across the three networks, ESPN, ESPN2 and NFL Network during the Draft’s 18 hour televised program. And although the networks can boast such an enormous response to their show, very few viewers were women. While her male counterpart was enjoying some uninterrupted bonding time with their buddies, women were probably watching the kids, driving to soccer practice or washing the dog. Perhaps it is the fact the Draft was 18 hours of televised programming over a two day time frame, which made it difficult for women to devote much time to watching the presentation. Or maybe it is because the draft can be very complicated and hard to follow. As much as the NFL has done to attract women viewers over the years, the percentage of women watching the NFL Draft was meager at best. However, the networks airing the NFL Super Bowl 2007 can boast 141.4 million viewers and 38% of those spectators were women. Why did one NFL program draw the attention of women, while the other did not?

The difference between men and women watching the Draft, is “for some guys, watching a college star get recruited is like watching their little brother grow up”, as Suzanna Gagnier explains in her book Putting on the Blitz: The Football Book for Women. For women, if they do not know the college player being drafted, they usually do not care which team drafts them. However, the NFL Super Bowl is all about the last game of the season, the party, the entertainment and friends and it is about their team winning big. Women, the social creatures that they are, love the social aspect of the game.

Maybe women just don’t understand all of the nuances of American Football. Football is a highly complicated game with passing plays, rushing plays, field goals and penalties. Or maybe (if they were lucky), some women have grown up with big brothers or fathers who cherished the game and never missed the opportunity to cheer for their favorite team. Those gals probably have a keen eye for the “off-side”, or the “illegal use of hands” penalties. They are the ones calling the plays from the sidelines (or couch) before the ball is ever snapped. They proudly wear their team colors.

However, for those women who could not identify an “onside kick” if their life depended on it, Suzanna Gagnier has provided the solution. Her new book explains everything about football from the kick-off to the pads the players wear under their uniforms, to the history of the game. She does so in a fun and playful manner in a hard bound book, full of illustrations and high glossy color photos.

With the completion of the Draft, and the drafted college players reviewing their soon-to-be NFL contracts, the football season is officially over. However, come August (a mere three months away), the football pre-season will be in full swing, and the season official kick-off will soon follow. Those women who are already die-hard fans are just as excited as their male counterparts for the fall season to approach and football to start again. But for those who get lost during the Draft (and truly there are many male fans who do not even understand the ins and outs of the NFL Draft), help has arrived. Get out the sunscreen, straw hat and shades this summer, and enjoy learning about the number one spectator sport in America by reading the new book of the summer, Putting on the Blitz: The Football Book for Women. Next football season we may see an enormous influx of women watching football, and come September the women may just take her spot on the couch and demand the ownership of the remote control.

Suzanna Gagnier, author of “Putting on the Blitz: The Football Book for Women,” is a former football statistician. Her book has been featured on ABC, NBC, CBS, and FOX News. She can be found online at puttingontheblitz.com, or 408-316-9333

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