“Erica’s passion for the craft industry and in-depth knowledge of all things DIY serves as an inspiration to anyone looking to fuel their passions and find a new creative outlet,” says Andrej Suskavcevic, President and CEO of the Craft & Hobby Association. “This partnership will build excitement and buzz around crafting and amplify our message about how crafts and hobbies add dimension to our lives.”

The Create-n-Connect Conference & Trade Show highlights the season’s largest selection of craft products under one roof. The Conference program gives attendees the opportunity to learn new skills, gain knowledge on business trends and network with other members and international attendees through workshops, seminars, Demo-nars® and special events.

About Craft & Hobby Association
Craft & Hobby Association is an international not-for-profit trade association consisting of thousands of member companies engaged in the design, manufacture, distribution and retail sales of products in the U.S. craft and hobby industry. Its vision is to create a vibrant industry with an exciting image, an expanding customer base and successful members. The goal is to stimulate the sales growth of the craft and hobby industry by creating consumer demand, helping members succeed and leading the industry.

In addition to its mission to provide acute care for injured runners, the Boston Marathon Medical Team has conducted research for discovering improved methods of care and of preventing injuries among runners.  Exergen Corporation became involved in supporting this aspect of the race when the company was approached to participate in a study of how runners’ core body temperature is affected by completing a marathon.  With newly developed thermometry technology, Exergen was able to provide relevant information on the thermophysiology and heat stress of runners to the doctors and nurses at the finish line that led to improved care and reduced injuries.

 “By volunteering with the Boston Marathon Medical Team, Exergen was able to delve deeper into thermometry for marathon runners as well as for general use. We built a solid scientific foundation for the eventual development of temporal artery thermometry, now relied upon by millions of people in homes, doctors’ offices, clinics, and hospitals,” said Dr. Francesco Pompei, CEO of Exergen Corporation, maker of the Exergen TemporalScanner.  “For 18 years, Exergen has stood side by side with the doctors and nurses assisting runners as they crossed the finish line and we are proud to make this donation in their honor.”

Facebook Fans Can Share Favorite 'Dad Moments' for a Chance to Win

Speyburn Single Malt Scotch Whisky announced the Reconnect Father’s Day Photo Contest for outdoors enthusiasts, beginning May 1 and running through June 30, 2013. Speyburn, known for its deep rooted connection to fishing and the great outdoors, is the only distillery to use water from the Granty Burn, a tributary of the River Spey famed for its purity and its world-class salmon fishing.

Beginning May 1, Speyburn and outdoors lovers alike can upload a photo of a favorite trip or outdoor adventure with the dad in their life, along with a 100-word description of the “reconnect moment” to the Speyburn Facebook Page. Once they have entered, fans are encouraged to invite family and friends to vote for their submission. The reconnect moment with the most votes wins a prize package from Speyburn and a $500 Orvis gift card to outfit their next adventure. One runner up with also receive a $100 Orvis gift certificate and Speyburn merchandise. For official rules and to enter or vote, visit http://www.facebook.com/SpeyburnWhisky

About Speyburn
Speyburn Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky was first distilled on the December 15, 1897, the diamond jubilee year of Queen Victoria. Today, Speyburn continues to use the time-honored traditional distillation methods that created the single barrel of the 1897 vintage. Speyburn is matured in American and Spanish oak casks in traditional stone-built warehouses. The result is a classic Speyside single malt; golden amber in color with a floral and citrus nose. It is medium-bodied and easy to drink, with a delicate, fruity character and a dry, complex finish. The portfolio includes Speyburn 10 year old, Speyburn 25 year old and Speyburn Braden Orach expressions. (http://www.speyburn.com)
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The World’s Only Luxury Asian Rum Launches in United States

International Beverage USA announced the launch of Phraya, a premium aged rum from Thailand, to the U.S. market. Pronounced prai-ah, this distinctive rum is aged for seven to 12 years in “fired” oak barrels using a deep maturation technique developed to suit the tropical climate of Southeast Asia. Warehouses are situated over cool lagoons and the climate cycle effectively slows down the aging process and gives the spirit depth. 

As a testament to its quality, Phraya recently earned accolades at the prestigious 2013 San Francisco World Spirits Competition with a Double Gold Medal. In addition, at the 2013 Ultimate Spirits Challenge it was chosen as a finalist in the rum category, earning a score of 95, which classified it as being extraordinary and earning the “ultimate recommendation.” The spirit is amber in color and imparts aromas of vanilla, coconut and exotic spices. The taste is smooth, featuring honey and butterscotch with underlying citrus notes. It finishes delicately on the palate with a slight spiciness and a long lasting vanilla ice cream finish.

“Phraya is the perfect addition to International Beverage’s premium spirits portfolio,” said Patrick Graney, President of International Beverage USA. “Its enticingly smooth, rich flavor and balance distinguish it as a rum to discover, desire and savor.”

Phraya is distilled in the province of Nakhom Pathom, commonly regarded as the site of the first city in Thailand. The rich, fertile soil provides an abundance of specially-grown sugar cane which forms the heart of Phraya. It is distilled using the soft, natural waters of the Ta Chin River which lends a delicate, mellow balance to the rum. As the world’s only luxury rum from Asia, its unrivalled elegance offers an enlightening glimpse into classical Asian tradition.

Phraya means “of higher rank” and is inspired by the ancient elements of fire, earth, air and water. According to ancient Asian philosophy, the world and all existence within it is governed by these elements. Each one plays a key role in the creation and the taste of the spirit and is represented in the beautiful bottle cuff.

Now available at luxury and specialty retailers in California, Illinois, Washington and New York for a suggested retail price of $49.99, Phraya will expand distribution to Florida and Texas in June 2013. For more information visit www.phrayarum.com

About International Beverage

International Beverage, Inc. (www.interbevgroup.com) was established in 2005 as the international arm of ThaiBev, one of South East Asia’s leading alcohol beverage companies. With a network of regional offices in Asia, Europe and North America, the company is responsible for the production, sales, marketing and distribution of a portfolio of premium global brands in more than 80 countries and territories. The company’s success is built on a strong understanding of local cultures and markets along with the creation of a global operational network.

Providing Solutions to Improve Environmental Services Role in Infection Prevention

Orangeburg, NY— PDI, leader in infection prevention education, clinical support and products, introduces a larger wipe format for its Sani-Cloth^® Bleach Germicidal Disposable Wipes to provide a product suited to meet the needs of Environmental Services. Along with the Sani-Cloth^® AF3 Germicidal Disposable Wipe and Super Sani-Cloth^® Germicidal Disposable Wipes, the EPA-Registered Sani-Cloth^® Bleach Extra Large Canister is part of the complete Sani-Cloth^® Environmental Hygiene System.  The system targets all areas of healthcare facilities, ranging from high-risk or sensitive patient areas to general everyday use. The system also incorporates dedicated training and educational support, complete in-servicing, compliance tools, signage and dispensing accessories.

“The role of Environmental Services is critical in mitigating the risk of HAI transmission. Therefore, it is important for Environmental Services and Infection Prevention teams to align on infection prevention initiatives.  This includes education on the proper use of a sodium hypochlorite solution to reduce the risk of transmission of Norovirus and Clostridium difficile,” said PDI’s Senior Director of Clinical Affairs, Hudson Garrett, Jr., PhD. “Moreover, by utilizing training and compliance tools, Environmental Services can play an equally important role in increasing patient satisfaction scores.”

The Sani-Cloth^® Bleach XL Canister features a 7.5 x 15-inch wipe which is unfolded, ready to use and packaged in a 65-count container. These wipes are ideal for disinfecting high-risk areas endemic with Clostridium difficile spores and Norovirus. The stabilized dilution of sodium hypochlorite is tested effective against 50 microorganisms, including clinically emergent microorganisms such as CRE, EBSL-producing E. coli., NDM-1 and ESCAPE pathogens, with an overall contact time of four minutes.

Recent healthcare legislation and its impact on reimbursement rates have made cost reduction through streamlining processes of paramount importance for healthcare facilities. In addition, reimbursements are partly determined by patient safety measures such as infection rates, as well as patient satisfaction scores via the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS). Through education and selection of proper solutions, Environmental Services plays a vital role in helping facilities perform optimally on these measures as well as ensure patient and healthcare worker safety.

For additional information on collaboration of infection prevention and environmental services, download this free whitepaper.

PDI helps reduce preventable infections, control healthcare costs, and ultimately help save lives by delivering a broad range of evidence-based, market leading environmental hygiene and patient care solutions.  PDI’s expertise in making a difference in the community and healthcare environments extends throughout the United States and worldwide. www.pdipdi.com/healthcare.

Laurel House of Stamford will observe Kentucky Derby Day, May 4th with a “Derby Dinner Dance.”   The evening begins with live action TV coverage from Louisville followed with games, silent auction, dinner and dancing.

The 2013 benefit will honor long time Board Director Michael R. Parker as Laurel House’s first “Champion for Recovery.”  Mr. Parker’s nearly two decades of service to Laurel House will be acknowledged during a brief ceremony at the gala.  Mr. Parker is President of Parker Global Strategies. He guides his company’s strategic direction and manages the day-to-day business operations.  Mr. Parker has been active with area non-profit organizations for many years.  He has been a board member and twice Chairman of the Board at Laurel House. He also serves on the Executive Council at AmeriCares and is a member of the Board of Visitors of the Nicholas School of the Environment at Duke University.

For over a quarter century, Laurel House has provided Resources to Recover for people with mental illness and their families in and around Connecticut.

Co-Chairs for the 2013 event are Ms. Cheryl Palmer, a member of the Board of Directors and Mr. Rey Giallongo, Chairman and CEO of First County Bank.

“The emphasis at Laurel House is on recovery.  We believe people can and do recover from the worst effects of serious mental illness,” said Laurel House President and CEO Linda Autore.

For more information about Laurel House’s Derby Dinner Dance, email Ann Rogers, VP Marketing and Development at arogers@laurelhouse.net.

Pictured are Derby Dinner Dance Co-Chairs Rey Giallongo, Chairman and CEO, First County Bank and Cheryl Palmer, Laurel House Board Director.

Rey A. Giallongo, Jr., is chairman and chief executive officer of First County Bank and serves as President of the bank’s Foundation.  In addition, Rey is vice chairman and a member of the board of commissioners of the Stamford Downtown Special Services District, a board member of the Business Council of Fairfield County and serves as board member and secretary of the Housing Development Fund.  He is an independent member of the board of directors of The F.A. Bartlett Tree Expert Co., a privately owned, multi-national tree care company with headquarters in Stamford, and serves on the board of directors for COCC, a co-operative technology services provider for financial institutions.

In addition, Giallongo provides advice to The Ferguson Library and The Boys and Girls Club of Stamford as a citizen advisor.  He is immediate past president of United Way of Western Connecticut and president of Fairfield County Bankers Association, and serves as a trustee of the YMCA of Stamford.

Cheryl Palmer serves as a member of the Laurel House board and is the President and Founder of Strawberry Hill Associates, LLC, a strategic consulting firm specializing in driving revenue in mid-size companies. Formerly she was Chief Revenue Officer for Club Quarters, LLC, a privately held hospitality business; and President of The Food Emporium, a $500 million dollar specialty food retail division of The A&P Company.

In addition to her Board participation at Laurel House, Ms. Palmer serves on the Board of B&G Food, Inc. and is a member of the Board of Advisors for Sacred Heart University, Jack Welch School of Business.  She is also a past board member of the Girl Scouts of Southwestern CT, Women’s Business Development Council, Stamford YWCA and Domestic Violence Services, Inc.

Ms. Palmer and Mr. Giallongo reside in Fairfield County.
www.laurelhouse.net

SCRANTON, PA – Just in time for National Patient Safety Awareness Week, X-STATIC^® Antimicrobial Technology launched a new webinar available for CE credit: “A More Complete Approach to Infection Prevention: Bacterial Management of Soft Surfaces and Associated Reduction in HAIs.”  Webinar leader, Peggy Prinz Luebbert, highlights the importance of soft surface bacterial management and how to include it into a complete infection prevention protocol.  

The 2013 theme for National Patient Safety Week is “Patient Safety 7/365: 7 days of recognition, 365 of commitment to safe care.” Great advancements have been made to-date in reducing healthcare associated infections and improving patient safety through hard surface disinfection and hand hygiene. However, soft surface fabrics such as privacy curtains, scrubs, bed linens and uniforms, are often overlooked. During the webinar, infection prevention and patient safety professionals will learn what soft surfaces are in the healthcare setting and current clinical data on contamination and transmission of bacteria via these surfaces. Also discussed are the lack of standardized protocols, limited guidelines and the ineffectiveness of laundering alone.

“The first step in protecting both patients and healthcare workers from contamination of soft surfaces is raising awareness about the issue and establishing best practices and guidelines,” said Karin Recchione, director of marketing for Noble Biomaterials. “We’re working closely with the infection prevention community to provide the support and education they need to incorporate these into everyday practice.”

Soft surfaces make up 90 percent of the patient contact environment and have been shown to act as “fomites,” or carry pathogenic bacteria.  One study published in 2012 concluded, “Privacy curtains are rapidly contaminated with potentially pathogenic bacteria. Further studies should investigate the role of privacy curtains in pathogen transmission and provide interventions to reduce curtain contamination.”[1]  The webinar is available to download here.

“The evidence is clear that soft surface fabrics contribute to contamination of the healthcare environment,” said Luebbert.  “As infection preventionists, our goal is to work toward zero healthcare associated infections and it’s time to look at the technologies associated with antimicrobial fabrics.”

X-STATIC antimicrobial technology is a strategic partner of APIC and works closely with the infection prevention community toward the common goal of reducing healthcare associated infections. The technology permanently bonds textile fibers with a layer of 99.9 percent pure metallic silver. The silver layer creates an ionic shield that inhibits the growth of bacteria and fungi directly on the surface of the fabric. It provides continuous, permanent protection for patients and staff between launderings, lasts the life of the product (more than 200 commercial washings) and does not require modification in staff behavior.

X-STATIC^® is a registered trademark of Noble Fiber Technologies, LLC. Noble Biomaterials, Inc. is a global leader in bacterial management solutions. The company develops, manufactures, sells and markets advanced antimicrobial technologies designed to manage all forms of bacterial contamination. For more information on products powered by X-STATIC technology, visit  www.InfectionPreventionTextiles.com, “like” X-STATIC ® on Facebook or follow them on Twitter @XStaticFiber.