Rosemont, Ill. (PRWEB) February 22, 2012

Flexible Benefit Service Corporation (Flex) today announced they will launch an educational outreach effort for human resource and business professionals to learn more about popular Consumer-Driven Health Care Plans (CDHPs). The series of free webinars are offered through the FlexUNIVERSITY™ platform and accredited by the Human Resources Certification Institute (HRCI) offering one general recertification credit to those that attend.

In a recent report, the Employee Benefits Research Institute (EBRI) indicated that 16 percent of US employers with 10-499 employees and 23 percent of employers with 500 or more employees are offering either an HRA or HSA-eligible plan. With more than 21 million employees covered by CDHPs in 2011, these plans are now becoming standard practice in the benefits industry. Human resource and business professionals are invited to register for these free, live educational events to learn more about why these plans are gaining momentum in the benefits marketplace and how they can implement these solutions within their organizations.

Managing CDH Plans Webinar- March 8, 2012 @ 11 AM
Employer HSA Solutions Webinar – March 29, 2012 @ 11 AM

“As a thought leader in the health insurance and benefits administration marketplace, Flex offers expertise and a unique perspective on CDHPs,” says John DiVito, president of Flex. “One of our main goals as an organization is to educate employers on cost-effective health care strategies, and CDHPs do exactly that.”

Flex offers various consumer-driven, tax-advantaged products, services and resources to employers throughout the U.S., including Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs), Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), Transit/Parking Reimbursement Accounts (TRAs), Cafeteria Plans, COBRA and more. Through its comprehensive understanding of the health insurance and benefits administration markets, Flex presents a cutting edge perspective on finding solutions for the rising cost of healthcare.

For more information about Flex, visit http://www.flexiblebenefit.com or call 866-472-0882.

About Flexible Benefit Service Corporation

Flexible Benefit Service Corporation (Flex), headquartered in Rosemont, Ill., is a leader in the health insurance and benefits administration markets. Since 1988, it has offered cost-effective healthcare solutions integrated with unparalleled expertise, service and technology to health insurance Producers, Employers and Employees. Their two primary divisions include the Flex General Agency and Flex Plans. The General Agency offers health insurance Producers free access to leading health, Medicare and ancillary/voluntary insurance carriers, products, resources and more. The Flex Plans division serves Employers and Employees through its in-house portfolio of benefits administration products that are designed to add cost-effective value to any employee benefits package. Through its comprehensive understanding of the health insurance and benefits administration markets, Flex presents a cutting edge perspective on finding solutions for the rising cost of health care.

This press release was distributed through PR Web by Human Resources Marketer (HR Marketer: http://www.HRmarketer.com) on behalf of the company listed above.

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©Copyright 1997-

, Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.

Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) February 20, 2012

GREENLIGHT Communications, the printer for the corporate professional, is announcing the launch of its Social Media Initiative, designed to provide HR and Training professionals with excellent value added content related to their profession. Simply by connecting with GREENLIGHT across their social media profiles, individuals can expect to see information relating to key Training Industry topics such as LMS, best practices, success stories, and posts on unique ideas directly from clients.

To help launch this initiative, GREENLIGHT is introducing its “Social Media Giveaway” contest. By connecting with GREENLIGHT on Facebook, Google+, or Twitter, entrants can win a new iPod Nano.

GREENLIGHT Communications, which has been specializing in HR and Training materials since 2007, manages all printing and delivery for the training professional so that they can focus on what they excel at: training. GREENLIGHT’s sole focus rests on the needs of the HR and Training professional.

Contest Offer and How to Enter

GREENLIGHT Communications is offering one (1) new iPod Nano during its “Social Media Giveaway” campaign. Entry deadline is February 27, 2012 at 11:59:59 PM. Participants may enter the contest on Facebook, on Twitter, and on Google+. A participant may increase their odds by entering on each of the available entry platforms.

How to Enter on Facebook

To have a chance of winning, entrants must Like GREENLIGHT Communications’ Facebook page, provide their name, company, and email address in the “Social Media Giveaway” tab on the Page.

The winners will be announced on GREENLIGHT Communications’ Facebook Page and blog on February 28, 2012. The winner will be contacted via email.

How to Increase Odds: Enter on Twitter

To increase odds of winning, entrants must follow GREENLIGHT Communications on Twitter at @GreenlightPrint and must send a tweet containing the #GREENLIGHTCommunications hashtag, and this link http://www.facebook.com/greenlightprint?sk=app_112159038797213.

Entrants may tweet the message once per day (exceeding this limit will result in disqualification). Entrants must not have a default avatar image on their Twitter profile. Additionally, entrants must have entered the contest on GREENLIGHT Communciations’ Facebook page. Winners will be announced on February 28, 2012 on Twitter by @GreenlightPrint and the GREENLIGHT Communications blog on February 28, 2012. Winners will be contacted via Twitter Direct Message, so entrants must be following @GreenlightPrint. Entering on this platform will count as an additional entry for an individual.

How to Increase Odds: Enter on Google+

To increase odds of winning, entrants must +1 and add GREENLIGHT Communications to their circles, and provide their name, company, and email address in the “Social Media Giveaway” tab on the company’s Facebook page. Entering on this platform will count as an additional entry for an individual.

The winners will be announced on GREENLIGHT Communication’s Google+ Page and blog on February 28, 2012. The winner will be contacted via email.

The contests will close on February 27 at 23:59:59 EST. Participants must be aged 16 or older and must be U.S. residents. Full terms and conditions are available here.

About GREENLIGHT Communications

Greenlight Communications offers digital, offset and web printing, promotional products, logistics, and business process outsourcing to private and public sectors. Greenlight dedicates its expertise and capabilities to serving the needs of the Training & Human Resource Executive. Greenlight holds a National Woman’s Enterprise Business Certification which was granted by the Woman’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC).

Greenlight Communications’ facility is in Norcross Georgia and offers 37,000 square feet of production, bindery, warehousing, and office space. Their core product mix is training binders, manuals, booklets, CDs, DVDs, newsletters, brochures and booklets.    In 2011, an additional 12,000 square feet of offset print, bindery, and office space was added as Greenlight expanded its breadth of service. Kit building and distribution have become core service offerings at Greenlight. Greenlight is also an ASI distributor and offers over 3,000 promotional and branding concepts to its customers. Greenlight supports all of its customer’s green initiatives through print on demand, recycled paper, and binders.

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©Copyright 1997-

, Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.

IBISWorld Market Research

Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) February 19, 2012

Operators in the Small Specialty Retail Stores industry sell very diverse products, from premium cigars to sketch pads. IBISWorld industry analyst Eben Jose says that “Due to its fragmented nature, the industry is driven not by product-specific trends but rather by broad changes in consumer sentiment and household disposable income.” Since the recession, these macroeconomic drivers have taken a negative turn, causing US consumers to cut back on purchasing industry products. As a result, IBISWorld estimates that revenue will decrease at an average annual rate of 3.6% over the five years to 2012 to total $ 24.7 billion. In line with the recession, the steepest declines occurred in 2008 and 2009, when revenue fell 9.7% and 7.5%, respectively. However, as the economy began its recovery and consumers began spending again, the revenue contraction decelerated, falling 2.5% in 2010 and increasing 0.8% in 2011. IBISWorld expects this upward momentum to carry into 2012.

In addition to poor spending conditions, increased external competition has further weakened industry demand. In the five years to 2012, mass merchandisers, warehouse clubs, discount department stores and online retailers have taken market share away from industry operators by providing convenient one-stop shopping and low prices for similar industry products. These factors have turned many consumers away from small specialty stores, leading to reduced profitability. This poor performance has also caused underperforming retailers to exit the industry; the number of enterprises has declined from 136,896 in 2007 to an estimated 116,613 in 2012. The Small Specialty Retail Stores industry generally exhibits low market share concentration. Jose estimates that none of the four largest players in the industry will account for a significant share of revenue in 2012. “The industry is highly fragmented,” he says, “and is characterized by a large number of small players that are privately owned and operated.” However, concentration has been on the rise in recent years due to heightened external competition from mass merchandisers and e-tailers, which offer customers convenience and low prices.

As the economy gains traction in its recovery, industry revenue is projected to increase from 2012 to 2013. A rise in disposable income will likely encourage consumers to increase spending on quality products sold by industry operators. However, such growth will be temporary, as the competition from external industries like department stores and e-commerce websites will likely continue to erode demand. In addition, permanent price declines will likely keep profitability low in the five years to 2017. For more information, visit IBISWorld’s Small Specialty Retail Stores report in the US industry page.

Follow IBISWorld on Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/IBISWorld

Friend IBISWorld on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/IBISWorld/121347533189

IBISWorld industry Report Key Topics

Industry operators retail specialized lines of goods, such as art supplies, cigarettes and cigars, paper goods, collectors’ items, fireworks, religious merchandise and trophies. This industry also includes general merchandise auction houses, but it excludes mass merchandisers, department stores, warehouse clubs and superstores.

Industry Performance

Executive Summary

Key External Drivers

Current Performance

Industry Outlook

Industry Life Cycle

Products & Markets

Supply Chain

Products & Services

Major Markets

Globalization & Trade

Business Locations

Competitive Landscape

Market Share Concentration

Key Success Factors

Cost Structure Benchmarks

Barriers to Entry

Major Companies

Operating Conditions

Capital Intensity

Key Statistics

Industry Data

Annual Change

Key Ratios

About IBISWorld Inc.

Recognized as the nation’s most trusted independent source of industry and market research, IBISWorld offers a comprehensive database of unique information and analysis on every US industry. With an extensive online portfolio, valued for its depth and scope, the company equips clients with the insight necessary to make better business decisions. Headquartered in Los Angeles, IBISWorld serves a range of business, professional service and government organizations through more than 10 locations worldwide. For more information, visit http://www.ibisworld.com or call 1-800-330-3772.

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©Copyright 1997-

, Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.

Aberdeen, MD (PRWEB) February 16, 2012

The Law Offices of Marc G. Snyder announce multiple developments representing the firm’s continued commitment to the aggressive representation of criminal defendants throughout the State of Maryland.

In response to the firm’s growing client base in Harford County, MD, Mr. Snyder has opened a new office located at 3 South Rogers Street in Aberdeen, Maryland. The new location joins the law firm’s other two offices in Baltimore City and Pikesville, MD.

Mr. Snyder’s firm also announces the addition of two new employees, Brian K. Bishop, Esquire and Jesse Green.

Mr. Bishop, a Criminal Defense Attorney with the Baltimore County Public Defender’s Office joins the firm’s Criminal Defense Practice, bringing with him invaluable experience gained while working with the citizens of Baltimore.

“Mr. Bishop brings to my firm the formidable qualities that can only come from being trained by some of the best in our field. I look forward to his talent and ability being used for the great benefit of all our clients.”    

Ms. Jesse Green, a professional Forensic Investigator with the Harford County Public Defender’s Office, also joins the firm’s Criminal Defense Practice. The addition of a full-time professional investigator demonstrates the firm’s clear dedication to employing every available resource for the benefit of their clients. Ms. Greene’s education, training and experience provide the firm’s attorneys with a powerful resource, especially during the pre-trial investigative stage of a case.

“Employing a professionally trained investigator who leaves no stone unturned allows us to offer our clients the most comprehensive defense representation possible. I know that if there is evidence, anywhere in the world, that could clear our client’s name, we will find it.”

An Open House / Free Legal Clinic has been scheduled for Friday, February 24, 2012 from 2pm-6pm. Residents of Harford County and Cecil Counties are invited to attend, meet the members of the firm, and discuss any pending legal questions or concerns.

The Law Offices of Marc G. Snyder represent individuals facing criminal charges throughout the State of Maryland. A former Baltimore City Assistant State’s Attorney, Mr. Snyder’s Maryland Criminal Law practice employs the latest in investigative techniques and available technology to provide clients with the most comprehensive representation available.

The Law Offices of Marc G. Snyder also represents individuals who have been injured due to the negligence of another, whether in a car, truck or motorcycle accident, by way of a medical mistake (also known as medical malpractice) or while on the property of a local business, including hotel/motels, restaurants, nightclubs/bars, and other such business interests.

Mr. Snyder is the author of several books, including Truth Be Told: The Tall Tales, Myths & Legends That Can Destroy Your Maryland Personal Injury Case and The Unofficial Client’s Guide to Hiring The Right Lawyer, available on the firm’s website at http://www.marcsnyderlaw.com.

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©Copyright 1997-

, Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.

Lou Bencardino’s Bencardino Excavating

Bensalem, Pa. (PRWEB) February 16, 2012

Lou Bencardino and Bencardino Excavating, a full-service excavating company based in Bucks County, Pa., have begun an underground electrical excavation project for Gordon Group Electric of Feasterville, Pa. The Bencardino crew was hired to revitalize a building within the Philadelphia Navy Yard’s 1,200-acre limits. Company owner Louis A. Bencardino is the project manager and Bencardino Excavating’s Greg Davis is serving as project foremen.

“Philadelphia is our hometown, so when we have the opportunity to work on projects in the city that help to bring jobs and tourism to the area, we take great pride in that,” said Lou Bencardino, owner of Bencardino Excavating. “After making investments in the company earlier this year, we are off to a productive start and ready to provide more services to our clients in South Philadelphia and other neighboring communities.”

In 2012, Bencardino Excavating updated its capabilities and equipment to better serve its clients in the community. Some of the new equipment added to the company’s arsenal included a BoMag BW 190 Asphalt Roller, a walk-behind Bulldog Trench Roller and three new CASE Backhoes. With this new equipment, the crew is able to handle a variety of milling and excavation needs for projects and clients. The Bencardino Excavating Safety Committee has also planned several workshops to train employees on safe practices on job sites and the proper protocol for machine and new equipment operation.

Bencardino Excavating is committed to delivering the highest level of performance and quality to its clients. Louis Bencardino is a highly-skilled excavation and site work contractor who has an experienced team of project managers, foremen, construction professionals and craftspeople. The company specializes in complete site work services including construction, excavation, electrical, demolition, asphalt paving and final finish work.

Bencardino Excavating was founded in 1988 by Lou Bencardino, and serves clients in Southeastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey including Bucks, Montgomery, Philadelphia, Chester, Delaware, Camden, Mercer and Gloucester Counties. Bencardino Excavating has worked with airports, helipads, schools, banks, corporate facilities and more in a wide array of industries including commercial and residential development, pharmaceutical, chemical, biotechnology, utilities, education and retail. Among its clients are Bovis Lend Lease, T.N. Ward Company, Daniel J. Keating, Harkins Builders, H.B. Frazer Company, Emory Hill and Company, A.T. Chadwick Company, Carr & Duff, Inc., Scungio Borst, St. Joseph’s University, Temple University, Philadelphia University, Princeton University, PennDOT, Keating Building and Merck. For more information, visit http://www.bencardino.com or call (215) 244-6000.

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©Copyright 1997-

, Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.

Once an individual receives this credit report they should review it carefully to ensure there are no mistakes in this report. A mistake could bring down the credit score of a person making it harder to get financial products like a contractor mortgage.

Another important consideration is the value of the property that is going to be financed. Since the real estate market as a whole is depressed it can be hard to determine the current market value of a property. Most lenders will require that an appraiser from a property appraisal company of their choosing assess the value of the property before moving forward with the deal.

After the value of the property has been determined the lender will require a down payment that can range from 10-25% depending on where the property is located and what the credit score is of the person. In order to get the best possible deal the applicant for the mortgage should have their financial documents in place. Lenders will need to ensure the person applying for the mortgage can service the debt.

When it comes to communication, a mobile phone is a medium that is mostly used. That is because it is portable and we have it everywhere we go. This communication tool is the easiest to access and have. But you should be informed that not only because a telecommunications company will tell you that they can provide you the network connection you need for your mobile phone to be useful, you should go for it. You should only choose the best telecommunications company or you will just suffer from very poor wireless services. And that’s the most annoying thing about it. You are going to pay bills every month but you will not get the network services you seek.

How to know what provider to choose

Since you should only choose the best, you can consider these things. First is the services they are giving their customers. A telecommunications company should be able to provide good services regardless of time and place. It should be available for their subscribers wherever they go and whenever it may be. They can do this if they will use the most high-tech tools and equipments. Also, the provider you should choose should be able to provide you your phone demands. Let’s say you want more services other than text messaging and calling like web access or mobile internet, they should be able to give it to you.

Verizon is one of the telecommunications providers that lead the market. They are able to do that through their excellent services that can be felt by their subscribers and discount deals that subscribers can get through a Verizon promo code.

Student Drop Off Zone Signs are made with 3M reflective material

Gap, PA (PRWEB) February 14, 2012

Alphabet Signs, a respected supplier of school and traffic signs, is pleased to announce a bold, new STUDENT DROP OFF ZONE sign that is specifically designed to increase school safety and improve traffic flow in the typical school parking lot.

The new STUDENT DROP OFF ZONE sign clearly designates the intended use of the location at which students are to be dropped off for school. It becomes a continuous reminder and explanation of the purpose for a selected area and discourages other drivers from interfering with normal traffic flow. Traffic congestion is a major concern in and around schools, especially during drop-off and pick-up times of the day. Frustrated drivers, parents, teachers and student drivers who are rushed and running late can turn school parking lots into danger zones when traffic flow is not clearly explained and monitored.

The new STUDENT DROP OFF ZONE sign stands out against any background in bold yellow and white colors. Important instructions that tell parents to pull forward and remain in their vehicle are included in the yellow bands on the top and bottom of the rectangular sign. Built of heavy-gauge, sign-grade aluminum, these signs are designed for long life and minimal maintenance. They remain rust-free in all kinds of weather conditions.

Rounded corners and smooth edges prevent the posted drop-off sign from becoming hazardous to students, parents and other pedestrians. Because Alphabet Signs adheres strictly to standard FHA guidelines, each sign is also coated with 3M EGP for optimal reflectivity. Pre-punched holes make mounting easy and guarantee proper installation.

Alphabet Signs is aware that well-marked school zones are safer for students of all ages, and fewer fender-benders are a win-win situation for all concerned. The STUDENT DROP OFF ZONE sign is a cost-effective way to help everyone follow an efficient, well-designed drop-off plan. Daniel Keane, President of Alphabet Signs, stated, “Many schools have already eased their morning congestion by using such signage to direct parents to additional or relocated drop-off locations.”

Well-placed school zone signs simplify the process of getting children to school safely and on time. Drivers who follow the instructions will pull their vehicles as far ahead as possible to maximize the number of cars who can unload students simultaneously. They are reminded to stay with their vehicle at all times so that they don’t block traffic.

According to the web site Safe Routes To School, “Students are encouraged to exit only on the sidewalk side of the car. When parents are properly informed of the purpose and plan for the drop-off area, most comply willingly.” Safe Routes To School is a collaborative effort of SRTS experts from around the country and support from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

About Alphabet Signs

Alphabet Signs provides fast turnaround, expert service and great prices on 3000+ sign items in 50+ categories. Their quality signs have been hand picked by sign experts. Alphabet Signs has been in business over 20 years.

Contact: press(at)alphabetsigns(dot)com

# # #

©Copyright 1997-

, Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.

2012 Bass Pro Shops Spring Fishing Classic

Springfield, MO (PRWEB) February 13, 2012

2012 Spring Fishing Classic Quick Sheet

    What: Spring Fishing Classic
    When: U.S. Locations Feb. 24-March 11 Canada Locations March 9-25
    Where: 54 Bass Pro Shops store locations across United States and Canada
    How much: Free
    Why cover it: One of the most popular and fun pastimes we remember as kids is going on family fishing trips. As parents ourselves now, we want to pass on this tradition to our kids. An ever-increasing number of families are discovering Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World stores and flocking to their award-winning venues to discover the great outdoors together. At Bass Pro Shops, families can take advantage of Outdoor Skills Workshops, sit in on educational seminars and listen to professional field experts—all for FREE– that will allow them to make great outdoor memories together to last a lifetime.

Last year, more than 5 million people attended the Bass Pro Shops Spring Fishing Classics—lending credibility to the U.S. statistic that more people go fishing than go to Orlando’s Disney World—the world’s number one resort –30 million anglers vs 16 million Disney visitors (http://www.sportsmenslink.org). And, in Canada, more Canadians would rather fish than golf and play hockey combined –18% vs. 7% and 6% (http://www.csia.ca). Plus, there will be great interview and photo opportunity potential with anglers, customers and area visitors

    Special events:

Fishing Seminars by Local Pros or Conservation Groups–

U.S. Locations February 24-26, CAD Locations March 16-18

BASSMaster University Weekend with National Pros and Seminars –

U.S. March 2-4. CAD -Toronto March 10-11, Calgary March 10

Reel Trade-In – U.S. Locations Feb 24-29, CAD stores—March 9-14

Bass Pro Shops Next Generation™ Weekend—U.S. locations March 9-11 CAD locations March 23-25. Noon to 5pm each day– Friday-Sunday

Daily Door Busters, Rod Trade-in, Vendor booths–see specific store listing for dates

Plus, customers may register to win the “Awesome Fishing with Mark Zona” Sweepstakes. One Grand Prize Winner will be selected nationally and will win a 2-day fishing trip with Mark Zona in Traverse City, MI and a $ 300 Bass Pro Shops gift card. The trip will be filmed and the show will appear on The Outdoor Channel. The winner and one guest will receive complementary travel and 2 night’s lodging—a total Sweepstakes Package value of more than $ 10,000.00. In addition, each store will select a First Place Winner for a Fishing Prize Package with a retail value of $ 370 US and $ 445 CAD.

For more information: Contact Katie Mitchell (417) 873-5618

                                            Larry Whiteley (417) 873-5022

Pros, events, seminars, vendor booths and times vary per store location and are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances. Visit http://www.basspro.com/classic and click on the local store from the drop down box for more information

________________________________________

FISHING IS FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

Free Bass Pro Shops Event features pro anglers, seminars, kids’ activities and more

Bass Pro Shops is dedicated to ensuring families continue to have fun together outdoors through their exciting, educational events such as the Spring Fishing Classic. Last year, more than 5 million people attended this event at Bass Pro Shops stores across America and Canada and this year promises to be even bigger. And, it is at a price everyone can afford—free.

Plus, this year you could be the winner of the “Awesome Fishing with Mark Zona” Sweepstakes. You could be selected as the National Grand Prize Winner and win a 2-day fishing trip with Mark Zona in Traverse City, MI and a $ 300 Bass Pro Shops gift card. The trip will be filmed and the show will appear on The Outdoor Channel. You and your guest will receive complementary travel and 2 night’s lodging—a total sweepstakes package value of more than $ 10,000.00! In addition, 54 winners will be selected (one from each store) to win a Fishing Prize Package with a retail value of $ 370 US and $ 445 CAD.**

The 17-day event begins February 24th and goes until March 11th at 52 of the Bass Pro Shops retail stores in the United States and March 9th through 25th at the Calgary and Toronto stores in Canada. There’s new fishing products to browse through, live demonstrations to see, tips and techniques to learn, boat shows, kids events, and, it’s all FREE! Don’t forget to register to win the “Awesome Fishing with Mark Zona” sweepstakes or one of the 54 packages being given away that include a Bass Pro Shops Extreme Baitcast reel, Bass Pro Shops Extreme Rod, Rapala Electric Fillet Knife, Kevin Van Dam Tackle System and a fishing vest.

The Spring Fishing Classic is the best time and place to pick up the secret techniques and strategies used by the best anglers in the world. This year you’ll have two weekends of seminars and tank demonstrations to choose from– select your favorite topic or pro or attend them all—they’re all FREE! (Seminars will be held at all store locations except Miami, FL; Branson, MO; Islamorada, FL; and Bass Pro Shops Outlet store in Springfield).

The first weekend (U.S. stores February 24-26, CAD stores March 16-18) features fishing seminars taught by local pros, conservation groups and other area experts. Topics and times are listed below:

In the U.S. stores, Friday, February 24th and Canada stores, Friday, March 16th:

    6pm: Advanced Small and Largemouth Bass Tactics
    7pm: Local Fishing Tips and Techniques
    8pm: Side Image Sonar: How to Use it Effectively to Catch Fish
U.S. Saturday, February 25th and Canada, March 17th:

    1pm: (topics vary per store: check local store listing)
    2pm: Pre-Spawn and Post-Spawn Bass
    3pm: Fish Finder Basics
    4pm: Crankbait Fishing: Tactics and Importance of Matching Rod and Reel Gear Ratio to Various CrankBaits
    5pm: Spinnerbait Basics
U.S. Sunday, February 26th and Canada, March 18th:

    1pm: The Tackle and Tactics of Power Fishing vs. Finesse Fishing
    2pm: Local Fishing Tips and Techniques
    3pm: Side Image Sonar: How to Use it Effectively to Catch Fish
    4pm: Fish Finder Basics

The second weekend of the Spring Fishing Classic offers the BASSMaster University National Fishing Pros seminars and tank demonstrations March 2nd – 4th at the U.S. stores, March 10th-11th in Vaughan, (Toronto, Ontario) and March 10th in Rocky View (Calgary, Alberta). See and hear experts like 9-time BASS Angler of the Year Roland Martin, 4-time BassMaster Classic Champion Rick Clunn, legendary angler and TV host Bill Dance, America’s favorite fisherman and TV host Jimmy Houston, 3-time BassMaster Classic Champion Kevin VanDam and many more. Canadian customers will enjoy “Facts of Fishing” TV host Dave Mercer and the Beasley Brothers. (Pros, seminar topics, and times vary by store and are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances. Please check individual store schedules by visiting http://www.basspro.com/classic and clicking on the store from drop down box.)

Other special events include:

Reel Trade-In: If attendees have any old reels that don’t see a lot of action any more, bring them in during “Reel Trade-In” days February 24th-29th at the U.S. stores and March 9th -14th for Canada stores. They can be traded in for a coupon worth from $ 5 to $ 100 off the purchase price of a new reel. The donated reels will be given to local not-for-profit groups whose mission is to teach children about fishing and the outdoors.
Bass Pro Shops Next Generation™ Weekend: U.S. stores March 9-11, Canada March 23-25 Noon to 5pm. Kids can get into the spirit of the outdoors with plenty of FREE events geared for them during the Spring Classic. Activities include Catch and Release Pond++, Kid’s Fishing Seminars at 2pm, 3pm, and 4pm, Free Photo Download at Catch and Release Pond, and crafts from 12noon to2pm each day. Plus, the first 50 kids to participate each day will receive a special Bass Pro Shops logo drawstring backpack (while supplies last).
Daily Door Busters, Rod Trade-in, Vendor booths—Determined by specified store locations. Each store will have vendor booths one weekend of the Spring Fishing Classic except the following: Miami, FL; Destin, FL; Columbia,MO; WorldWide Sportsman (Islamorada, FL); Branson, MO; Memphis, TN; and Myrtle Beach, SC.
Get ready for a family summer full of fishing and outdoor adventures. Make plans now to attend the FREE Spring Fishing Classic event at your local Bass Pro Shops store.

**Contest rules: Customers must register to win the “Awesome Fishing with Mark Zona” Sweepstakes or the Spring Fishing Package First Prize. The Grand Prize of the Mark Zona fishing trip will be awarded to one winner selected nationally. Fifty-four first prize winners will be selected (one per store) and awarded a Spring Fishing Package. (NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR CLAIM PRIZE. Open to legal residents of the 50 United States, District of Columbia and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are 18 years of age or older at time of entry. Void where prohibited. Sweepstakes begins 02/24/12 and ends 03/11/12 for U.S. locations. In Canada (excluding Quebec), between 3/9/12 and close of business on 3/25/12.

++Catch and Release Pond, stocked with live fish, at all stores, except Calgary, Canada which will offer a Casting Pond inside store that does not feature live fish.

About Bass Pro Shops Group:

Bass Pro Shops® operates 58 retail stores in 26 states and Canada visited by over 112 million people annually. The original store in Springfield, MO, at over 400,000 square feet and growing, is the world’s largest outdoor store. Bass Pro Shops® also conducts an international catalog and internet retailing operation, American Rod & Gun® wholesale division sells to over 7,000 independently owned retail stores worldwide. Outdoor World® Incentives also sells Bass Pro Shops® gift cards through over 132,000 retail outlets across America. The Bass Pro Shops® restaurant division with 28 locations. The company’s Tracker Marine Group® (http://www.trackerboats.com) manufactures and sells Tracker®, Nitro®, SunTracker®, Tahoe®, Grizzly® and Mako® boats through Bass Pro Shops® retail stores and over 400 dealers worldwide. The Resort Group (http://www.bigcedar.com) includes Big Cedar Lodge® and other resort properties including restaurants and golf courses. For more information regarding Bass Pro Shops® store locations, products or special events, please visit http://www.basspro.com. To request a free catalog, call 1-800-BASS PRO. Follow us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/bassproshops.

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Attachments

©Copyright 1997-

, Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
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Chicago, IL (PRWEB) February 12, 2012

RE/MAX Northern Illinois agents sold the second largest number of residential real estate listing units in the City of Chicago during 2011. Due to their efforts, RE/MAX held on to its runner-up position to the market leader, with an 8.3 percent share of listings sold in the Chicago real estate market.

According to statistics released by Midwest Real Estate Data, LLC, the local regional multiple listing service, RE/MAX Northern Illinois brokerages sold 1,485 listings in the city during 2011, second only to Chicago’s @properties. This number puts RE/MAX ahead of such other prominent competitors as Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, Baird & Warner and Prudential.

RE/MAX agents also represented buyers in 1,210 home sales during 2011, giving

RE/MAX brokerages a combined 2,695 attached and detached Chicago home sales last year.

RE/MAX Northern Illinois first vaulted into the second-place spot for listings sold in Chicago during the first half of 2011. During those six months, RE/MAX boasted the largest increase in transactions among Chicago’s top six real estate brands.

“We are all proud of the year that RE/MAX agents and brokerages had in 2011,” said Laura Ortoleva, a spokesperson for RE/MAX Northern Illinois. “RE/MAX offices are staffed by some of the most talented and hard-working agents in the city. It’s little surprise that RE/MAX remains a major player in the Chicago housing market.”

Ortoleva said that she expects RE/MAX Northern Illinois to continue its strong performance in Chicago during 2012.

The Chicago housing market ended 2011 on a strong note, with the sales of existing homes rising in December by 6.2 percent when compared to the same month one year earlier, according to numbers from the Illinois Association of REALTORS®. The hope is that this bodes well for higher condominium and single-family home sales in the city in 2012.

“We have made a commitment to the city, and that is reflected in our strong sales numbers,” Ortoleva said. “I expect our performance in Chicago to remain strong in this new year.”

RE/MAX has been the leader in the northern Illinois real estate market since 1989. The RE/MAX Northern Illinois network, with headquarters in Elgin, Ill., consists of 2,100 sales associates and 110 individually owned and operated RE/MAX offices that provide a full range of brokerage services throughout the northern one-third of Illinois. Its http://www.illinoisproperty.com and http://www.remax.com websites are leaders in consumer visits among real estate franchise brands. Its mobile search, m.illinoisproperty.com, allows users to conduct real estate searches on any mobile device with Internet access. The northern Illinois network is part of RE/MAX LLC, a global real estate organization with 89,000 sales associates in 87 nations.

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