Real Estate Network

Archive for the ‘Rural Real Estate’ Category

Omaha, NE (PRWEB) September 21, 2011

WebEquity Solutions

(PRWEB) September 23, 2011

Theres a football adage that says if somethings working, you keep doing it. The same can be said for supporting a worthy cause. With September being Hunger Action Month, Farm Credit Services of Mid-America announced a $ 50,000 gift to Indiana Porks Million Meals for the Hungry initiative. This marks the second straight year of FCS support for the program.

My colleagues and I feel this is really something special, said Craig Blume, Regional Vice President for Northwest Indiana. Our customers raise a lot of that pork, and this program gets some of it to those who need it most. Ive been around this business for 38 years, and Ive experienced very few programs as rewarding as this one.

The Million Meals program was launched late 2009 as a partnership between Indiana Pork and agricultural industry partners and individuals. Together they committed to donating one million servings of whole-hog ground pork to Feeding Indianas Hungry (FISH), the organization that operates Indianas nine regional food banks. The program will deliver its millionth meal sometime in October.

Not only did Farm Credit sign on to donate to Million Meals for a second year, but believed in the program so strongly that it doubled last years gift. Half of this years funding will come from FCSs 26 field offices in Indiana, and half will come from the ag financial services cooperatives corporate office in Louisville. With this years donation, Farm Credits contribution will have provided 300,000 four-ounce servings of the high-quality protein.

Indiana Pork executive director Mike Platt was instrumental in originally helping to cast the vision for a program to feed the states hungry.

Indiana produces enough food to feed everybody in the state, said Platt. There was no reason, from a production standpoint, that anyone needs to go hungry. The hang-up was in the logistics.

A little over two years into the program with the original goal of a million meals in sight, Platt has no regrets about having taken on a project of this magnitude.

This is one of the most satisfying projects Ive been involved with in my career, he said. Its not all about pork producers and pork, but rather a way for the pork industry to take a leadership role in bringing a lot of players together to meet a huge need. To have been able to see some of the actual deliveries at the food banks and witness the appreciation from their staff and clients has been a tremendous blessing. We could have never have gotten to this place without the help of partners like Farm Credit. We at Indiana Pork have truly appreciated the enthusiasm with which they have embraced the major goals of the program.

So with the goal in sight, whats next for the Million Meals program? As the wake of the recession lingers and the demands on food banks continue to grow, there are no plans for Indiana Pork and its partners to call it a day.

With the Million Meals program were glad for the opportunity to play a small part in trying to meet the bigger goal of making Indiana the first hunger-free state in the nation. We have the resources and believe we can do that, said Platt.

About Farm Credit Services of Mid-America:

Farm Credit Services of Mid-America is a $ 17.1 billion financial services cooperative serving over 92,500 farmers, agribusinesses and rural residents in Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana and Tennessee. The association provides loans for all farm and rural living purposes including including real estate, operating loans,equipment loans, and housing loans. FCS also provides an array of financial services, including crop insurance and leases. For more information about Farm Credit, call 1-800-444-FARM or visit them on the web at http://www.e-farmcredit.com.

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Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) September 27, 2011

LANDFLIP.com, an exclusive land real estate marketing platform, is proud to announce the launch of LOTFLIP.com. This new lot-specific website, currently in beta, will showcase lots for sale fewer than 20 acres in size and complement LANDFLIP.com, which has experienced rapid growth in recent years due to quality content, far-reaching exposure and user-friendly interface.

Approximately 38% of the land for sale on LANDFLIP is less than 20 acres. LOTFLIP will provide buyers and sellers with an easier way to search for smaller tracts of land and small residential home sites. We invested a great deal of time in examining and defining the needs of our customer, said Ryan Folk, founder and CEO of LANDFLIP. Increasingly, people are turning to the Internet when beginning their search for land. Our goal was to offer a streamlined, faster approach to connect buyers and sellers of small acreage lots.

Showcasing lot listings on LOTFLIP will be at no additional cost to existing LANDFLIP customers, which means more listing exposure at one low price. At this time, advertising lots for sale on LOTFLIP is limited to LANDFLIP customers, but once LOTFLIP exits beta, sellers can choose to advertise only on LOTFLIP.

To locate their dream piece of property, potential land buyers can search LOTFLIP based on location, lot features and price. The new, more concise site also features lot auctions, lots for lease, and foreclosed lots. LOTFLIP caters to a large segment of land buyers and investors, explained Folk. There are significantly more buyers of smaller lots than larger tracts of land. In uncertain economic times, people are wary of jumping in and making a large investment. A lot more people can afford 20 acres, where 20 or more acres is out of their comfort zone.

Folk added that the increasing number of foreclosed development and lifestyle lots is unprecedented and that means deals for buyers. LOTFLIP was created to segment those properties for buyers and provide lot sellers a targeted platform to reach those buyers.

LANDFLIP will continue to expand its portfolio of land related media sites while continuing to offer more value to customers and subscribers and promoting the land industry along the way. Visit the new site LOTFLIP.com and follow @LOTFLIP on Twitter. Also, “like” LANDFLIP on Facebook and join the LANDFLIP group on LinkedIn.

About LANDFLIP:

LANDFLIP Inc. is headquartered in Madison, Georgia and specializes in developing innovative real estate marketing platforms. Since 2004, the company has launched LANDFLIP.com, LandThink.com, and LOTFLIP.com to help landowners, real estate brokers, agents, auctioneers, buyers and investors navigate the land buying and selling process with ease. LANDFLIP.com offers an easy and affordable way to list, market and search for land. For more information or to subscribe to LANDFLIP, visit http://www.landflip.com.

About LOTFLIP:

LOTFLIP.com makes it easy for potential land buyers to find lots for sale under 20 acres, such as beach lots, commercial and development lots, estate lots, golf, lake lots, mountain, residential and rural lots. LOTFLIP offers a streamlined approach to connect buyers and sellers of small acreage lots and features lot auctions, lots for lease, and foreclosed lots. LOTFLIP is an addition to a network of complementary sites, including LANDFLIP.com and LandThink.com.

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Columbus, OH (PRWEB) September 30, 2011

RED CAPITAL GROUP, LLC has posted on its website its Research Teams most recent multifamily housing industry report entitled Multifamily Housing Industry 2011 Mid-Year Review and Second Half Outlook Report.

To access the report, log on to http://www.redcapitalgroup.com and scroll down to the Recent Multifamily Housing Market Analysis section to register for the download.

Researched and written by Daniel J. Hogan and Joseph M. Mandeville, both of REDs in-house Research Team, the report is highlighted by the introduction of a fully-integrated occupancy, rent and cap rate forecasting model. The report provides a full set of 2011 to 2013 annual payroll projections and annual five-year rent growth and occupancy rate forecasts for 46 metropolitan markets across the country (the RED 46) as well as five-year total return and risk-adjusted return estimates and probability distributions of total return for each market. The study also engages in some What If modeling to help probe key questions confronting the multifamily housing space, such as the relative impact of accelerating inflation on asset performance and returns in different metropolitan markets.

In addition, the report contains a summary of the performance of metro markets during the first half of 2011, including:

New York, NY (PRWEB) October 04, 2011

The proceeds of this $ 10 million loan were used by the borrower for the repayment of a $ 3.5MM in existing debt and cash out proceeds of $ 6.5MM.

According to Mr. Dragone, the Managing Director and team leader on this deal at Terrace Capital, Avtex Commercial Properties is an established developer, with a 25 year history in developing commercial property through the Carolinas, and turned to Terrace because of its ability to navigate the non-recourse, credit markets and provide innovative solutions for low cost, permanent financing in tertiary, rural real estate markets. The cities in which the properties were located in had sparse populations; Chesnee (population -868), Gaffney (pop- 12,414), Cayce (pop-12,528) and Greer (pop- 25,126). In addition to the tertiary markets, other challenges included the class C nature of the properties and modest tenant sales, as centers were competing with 10 Walmart Centers located in the region. Terrace, through various unique structuring techniques, was able to alleviate the aforementioned issues and deliver non-recourse financing, which included a $ 6.5MM, cash out.

The 10-year, fixed rate, non-recourse loan was amortized over 30 years and closed within 6 days of investment committee approval.

Terrace Capital is a direct lender and asset manager of private funds which provide debt or equity capital for commercial real estate transactions. The Company focuses on non-recourse loans of $ 5MM or greater on income producing retail, office, industrial, multifamily, self-storage and hotel properties throughout the continental United States.

Terrace has recently re-opened its non-recourse hotel lending program which focuses on strong flags, positive trends in REVPAR and sponsors with multiple properties and strong balance sheets.

The Firm is a leader in providing permanent mortgages and bridge loans solutions for wide range of real estate transactions.

For more information about Terrace Capital and the services it provides, go to http://www.terracecapital.com.

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Macon, GA (PRWEB) October 05, 2011

The Studstill Firm, LLP is proudly celebrating two milestones. The firm is approaching its 30th anniversarya significant milestone that follows on the heels of another important eventserving its 10,000th client. While the name of the firm has changed over time, founding partner, Daniel L. Studstill, has been practicing law in the main office located in Nashville, Georgia (near Valdosta, GA and Tifton, GA) for 30 years.

Daniel L. Studstill first began practicing law in Nashville, GA on February 2, 1982 when the name of the firm was Perry Moore & Studstill. Mr. Perry left after being named president of the local bank in 1988, resulting in the firm name being changed to Moore & Studstill. In 2006, the firm became Studstill & Perry LLP to reflect another change in the partnership. Finally, in 2009, Haynes Maier Studstill became Danny Studstills law partner and the firm changed its name to Studstill Firm, LLP. Haynes Studstill is married to Danny Studstills son, Justin Studstill, who is an accomplished Macon accident lawyer. Studstill Firm, LLP is now a family of Georgia personal injury lawyers dedicated to helping other Georgia families move forward after a tragic event.

In 2009, the Studstill Firm, LLP added a second office in Macon, Georgia to focus on serious and catastrophic personal injury, wrongful death, and workers compensation cases. In 2011, the Studstill Firm opened its third office in Valdosta, Georgia to expand its growing personal injury practice. In deciding to keep the firms main office headquarters in the small town of Nashville, Georgia (Berrien County) where it has been for the last 30 years, Danny Studstill said, Practicing law in a smaller town is much more rewarding than being a big city lawyer. We spend less time in traffic and waiting in over-crowded courthouses, and more time helping people and making a difference for our clients.

In addition to celebrating its 30th anniversary, the Studstill Firm, LLP has hit the impressive milestone of representing more than 10,000 clients. As is typical of a law firm with its roots in a rural community, the firm has effectively handled many types of legal matters: wills and probate, real estate, criminal defense, business transactions, and other legal issues. But the main focus of the firm has always been personal injury and wrongful death cases.

The firms small size allows us to take a personal approach to representing families who are going through difficult times after a loved one is injured or dies, Danny Studstill said.

Partner Haynes Studstill adds, When our clients have a question or concern, they dont have a problem getting through to a real person who knows whats going on in their case and can help them immediately.

About the Studstill Firm, LLP

The lawyers at the Studstill Firm, LLP have the background and resources needed to handle many types of accident claims and injury cases. Founding partner Daniel L. Studstill created the firm to dedicate his practice to serving personal injury and wrongful death victims.

Today, the attorneys at the Studstill Firm, LLP focus primarily on the following practice areas:

Personal Injury
Truck, motorcycle, and car accidents
Wrongful death
Workers compensation
Nursing home litigation
Medical malpractice
Product Liability
Premises Liability

For more information, please visit http://www.studstillfirm.com or http://www.facebook.com/studstillfirm, or call 478-745-9002.

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Louisville, KY (PRWEB) October 06, 2011

October is National Pork Month and Ohio pork farmers will be observing it by gearing up to share a portion of what they produce with their foodbanks around the state. Farm Credit Services of Mid-America will be supporting their generosity with a $ 25,000 donation to assist their efforts.

On October 31, the OPPC and Farm Credit will join together to host a Facebook event, Help Farmers Fight Hunger Virtually. For each person attending this virtual event, one meal of ground pork, up to 100,000 meals, will be donated to the Ohio Association of Second Harvest Foodbanks. Then on November 1, Ohio Pork Producers Council will be making a donation of 25,000 pounds of ground pork to the states foodbanks.

We really appreciate Farm Credit and our other industry partners who have supported our efforts, said Jennifer Keller, OPPC director of marketing and education. With these funds, well be buying additional hogs from Ohio farmers, doing business with Ohio processors, and then donating the pork to the food bankshelping all levels of Ohios economy.

The states pork producers have been working closely with Ohios foodbanks since September of 2009, when they learned of the critical need for quality protein to those in need. They formed Pork Power: Partnering to Fight Hunger in Ohio, a partnership between the Pork Producers, the Ohio Association of Second Harvest Foodbanks, the Ohio Association of Meat Processors, and the Ohio Corn Marketing Council. The farmers donate the hogs, and the meat is processed by the processors group at a reduced rate before being donated to the foodbanks.

To date, 90,000 pounds of non-seasoned ground pork, which translates to 450,000 servings of high-quality protein, have been delivered. Farm Credits gift will put that total over 115,000 pounds and 575,000 meals. The states foodbanks have been most appreciative of the donations.

We are thankful for our states selfless network of pork farmers and their willingness to donate pork to those in need. Their desire to be part of the solution to Ohios growing hunger epidemic could not be more timely, said Lisa Hamler-Fuguitt, executive director of the Ohio Association of Second Harvest Foodbanks. When the lines have only grown longer throughout Ohios food pantries, soup kitchens and homeless shelters, partnerships such as the one we have established with Ohios pork farmers are crucial.

Its a real joy for me to work with farmers who have such a heart for helping our neighbors, said Roger Smith, a Farm Credit financial services officer from the Utica office. At Farm Credit, were committed to agriculture and rural America, and were glad to support the efforts of these farmers and also give something back to our communities.

To learn more about how you can Help Farmers Fight Hunger Virtually, visit Ohio Hog Farmers on Facebook.

About Farm Credit Services of Mid-America:

Farm Credit Services of Mid-America is a $ 17.1 billion financial services cooperative serving over 92,500 farmers, agribusinesses and rural residents in Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana and Tennessee. The association provides loans for all farm and rural living purposes including including real estate, operating loans,equipment loans, and housing loans. FCS also provides an array of financial services, including crop insurance and leases. For more information about Farm Credit, call 1-800-444-FARM or visit them on the web at http://www.e-farmcredit.com.

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Bozeman, MT (PRWEB) October 11, 2011

On Monday, November 7th at 10:00 A.M. MST, the 1,500+- acre Fishtrap Ranch will be offered at public auction. The property is located along paved State Highway 43 near the small ranching communities of Wise River and Divide in the upper Big Hole Valley in SW Montana. A stalking horse bid of $ 1,710,000 has been received for this Montana hunting land, and the minimum requirement for competing bids is $ 1,720,000. The deadline for submission is November 1st at 4:30PM MST. For more information on this Montana hunting land auction contact Scott Shuman, head of Hall and Hall Auctions, at 800-829-8747 or visit http://www.hallhall.com/auction-services.

The Fishtrap Ranch consists of 1,584

Austin, Texas (PRWEB) October 12, 2011

LandsofAmerica.com has partnered with Tecomate and Texas Trophy Hunters Association creating an unmatched resource for recreational real estate and outdoor information.

Demand for hunting land has soared as the traditional type of recreational real estate buyer has diversified. More and more urban professionals as well as investors have been entering the market, significantly increasing the number of hunting land for sale searches originating on hunting websites. These new partnerships will vastly increase exposure for LandsofAmerica.com clients placing their properties in front of an extremely targeted, interested and involved audience.

The Texas Trophy Hunters Association is a recognized leader in the hunting industry and has promoted the sport, science and heritage of hunting for over 35 years. TTHA boasts a membership base numbering tens of thousands, comprised of the most passionate and dedicated hunters from all around the world. The TTHA emblem has become synonymous with the hunting lifestyle and their organization continues to gain stature through their website http://www.TTHA.com and nationally syndicated TV show on the Outdoor Channel.

Tecomate expands hunters’ perspectives about what is possible through serious, practical wildlife management and helps them realize their deer hunting dreams where they both live and hunt. Tecomate also profiles America’s diverse hunting locations, management strategies, and passionate Americans that live the year-round hunting lifestyle in pursuit of whitetail deer, as well as, many other species of field and water. But above all, Tecomate captures the appreciation and sense of stewardship true sportsmen and managers have for the land and its wildlife. Their website http://www.Tecomate.com and nationally syndicated show, Bucks of Tecomate on the Versus Channel, serve as tremendous information sources and are a natural starting place to begin a hunting property search.

About LandsofAmerica.com

LandsofAmerica.com (http://www.landsofamerica.com) is the leading online real estate marketing service for brokers and agents specializing in rural land for sale. Its network of over 350 websites, advertises lake houses, land, farms, ranches, country estates and neighborhood homes in small towns across the country. The company was formed in 2002 and is headquartered in Austin, Texas.

About Texas Trophy Hunters Association

TTHA (http://www.ttha.com) strives to unite all segments of the hunting community for the dissemination of information and joining of energies to promote and protect our hunting heritage. Founded in 1975, TTHA, a membership-based organization, publishes a bimonthly magazine, The Journal of the Texas Trophy Hunters, and produces the award-winning outdoor television program, TROPHY HUNTERS TV

Cortland, NY (PRWEB) October 12, 2011

Location has been and always will be a driving factor for excellent real estate investments. There are folks who prefer living in a bustling metropolis while others prefer the simplicity of the rural lifestyle. By investing in Cortland real estate you can have the best of both worlds. Within 40 miles of Syracuse, Ithaca, and Binghamton, 150 miles of Albany and Buffalo, and about 200 miles from New York City, Cortland homes are ideal for families, couples, and retirees. According to Trulia.com, the median home price is 52% lower than they were in 2010, proving that home buyers can definitely get more home for their money.

Jim Yaman, principal broker of Yaman Real Estate and lifetime resident of the Cortland area, knows all about the county and its neighborhoods. Cortland is a great place to live, work, and play, shares Yaman. Our community has an excellent location right in the heart of New York State and is surrounded by good schools, healthy businesses, and a stable economy.

Being a stable community, Cortland is an appealing place for home buyers. Making the locale even more enticing to home buyers is the fact that properties here are now more affordable than they were a year ago. Based on the statistics in trulia.com, the average listing price for homes in Cortland at the end of September 2011 was $ 169,679. And with over 100 homes currently listed in the Cortland MLS, buyers can quite literally have their pick of homes and negotiate for the best price.

Real estate prices in Cortland are very affordable now, says Jim Yaman. If you are in the market for a home in the heart of New York, now would be the best time to buy and Cortland would certainly be the best place to come home to.

Find out more about what makes Cortland an attractive place to live and learn more about the real estate options in the area by visiting http://www.yaman.com.

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Louisville, KY (PRWEB) October 19, 2011

To help the Indiana 4-H Foundation recruit new Crystal Clovers before December 31, Farm Credit Services of Mid-America, an agricultural lending cooperative, will match, dollar-for-dollar, individuals $ 500 gifts, up to $ 8,000. It’s part of the Crystal Clover Match Challenge.

With this challenge, Farm Credit is opening the door to individuals to increase not only their support for Indiana 4-H, but their recognition, too, said, Shelly Bingle-Coffman, executive director for the Indiana 4-H. For our 50th Anniversary, wed love to have 50 new Crystal Clovers and this $ 8,000 challenge will help us be well on our way to making that goal.

Crystal Clovers are individuals who give at least $ 1,000 in unrestricted funds to the Foundation within a calendar year. Many of the gifts the Foundation receives are restricted to a specific purpose like a scholarship or an Indiana 4-H program. These restricted gifts are valuable and essential in our mission to support Indiana 4-H. However, since so much of the support we receive is restricted, it limits the Foundations ability to provide funding for other, lesser known programs and Foundation operations. Unrestricted gifts enable the Foundation to have more flexibility and use donations where they are most needed.

Crystal Clover members are recognized as being giving leaders for Indiana 4-H. Membership in the Crystal Clover giving club offers several benefits, including member-only events, tickets to special events as theyre available, and a special-level of attention from the Foundation staff that allows Crystal Clovers to be more informed about what is happening with 4-H across Indiana.

Were happy and proud to support the efforts of the Indiana 4-H Foundation because we believe its work with and for Indiana 4-H is truly changing the lives of youth all across Indiana, said Hollie Dearwester, regional vice president for Farm Credit Services and a member of the Indiana 4-H Foundation Board of Directors.

To take part in this challenge, simply donate $ 500 of unrestricted funds to the Indiana 4-H Foundation. Your gift will be doubled by Farm Credit so it totals $ 1,000, enacting your membership in the Crystal Clover giving club. You can give over the phone at 765.494.8483, online at http://www.in4h.org or through the mail. If you have any questions regarding this or other giving opportunities, please contact Shelly Bingle-Coffman at 317.445.7977.

About Farm Credit Services of Mid-America:

Farm Credit Services of Mid-America is a $ 17.1 billion financial services cooperative serving over 92,500 farmers, agribusinesses and rural residents in Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana and Tennessee. The association provides loans for all farm and rural living purposes including including real estate, operating loans,equipment loans, and housing loans. FCS also provides an array of financial services, including crop insurance and leases. For more information about Farm Credit, call 1-800-444-FARM or visit them on the web at http://www.e-farmcredit.com.

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Louisville, KY (PRWEB) October 21, 2011

Agriculture financial services provider Farm Credit Services of Mid-America has announced three recent gifts of $ 20,000 each to assist 4-H camps in the Buckeye State in upgrading their facilities. All three camps are part of Ohio State University Extensions network of camps.

Ohios 4-H Camp Palmer has been providing campers with adventure, excitement, and learning since 1947. During that time, well over 200,000 youth and adults from northwest Ohio and northeast Indiana have learned positive values, skills, leadership, self-esteem, responsibility, and cooperation.

But time takes its toll on facilities, and when Camp Palmer needed to replace two outdated and deteriorating cabins with a new cabin that would provide not only better accommodations, but also more flexibility and handicapped accessibility, Farm Credit Services supported the camps plans with a check for $ 20,000.

Farm Credit Services has given us a tremendous boost with this project, said Camp Palmers executive director, Bill Goodson. Melanie Strait Bok from their Archbold office has always been very community minded, and was very helpful in working with us to get the grant. Our goal is to have the cabin paid off by the time the construction is completed, and were getting very close.

Target date for completion of the new cabin is December or January. When finished, it will be a year-round facility with a capacity of 20, and its layout and location will give the camp more programming options. It will also have a meeting room and handicapped accessible bathrooms and showers in the middle. The accessibility aspect is especially important to Goodson, who has previous experience working with kids with disabilities in a camping situation.

Were really trying to step up our efforts in that area, he said. We dont want our camp areas or our programs to be a barrier to anyone. For her part, Strait Bok, who is the Assistant Vice President for Farm Credits Northwest Ohio Region was glad to be of assistance.

Camp Palmer touches a lot of people in the area we serve, and has a huge influence on 4-H members and our communities, she said. Our Community Giving program is designed specifically for projects like this one, where were supporting rural communities in ways that enable them to do programs that further enhance life in rural America.

Also receiving $ 20,000 Farm Credit grants were Camp Graham, in southwest Ohio and Camp Piedmont in east central Ohio. Camp Graham will use its grant funds to make much-needed improvements in the camps restroom facilities and replace its antiquated wastewater treatment facility. Camp Piedmont will likewise use its grant to replace its wastewater treatment plant, which will bring the camp into compliance with current EPA standards.

These grants are part of Farm Credits Greater Support for Rural America program, which provides funds to support agriculture, giving priority to youth and young farmers. In addition to providing more than $ 1 million annually in ongoing support to FFA, 4-H, and other young farmer and youth groups, Farm Credits Great Support for Agriculture Stewardship fund has awarded 49 one-time grants totaling more than $ 1.1 million to programs like Ohios Extension 4-H Camps since its inception in 2007.

About Farm Credit Services of Mid-America

Farm Credit Services of Mid-America is a $ 17.1 billion financial services cooperative serving over 92,500 farmers, agribusinesses and rural residents in Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana and Tennessee. The association provides loans for all farm and rural living purposes including including real estate, operating loans, equipment loans, and housing loans. FCS also provides an array of financial services, including crop insurance and leases. For more information about Farm Credit, call 1-800-444-FARM or visit them on the web at http://www.e-farmcredit.com.

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Louisville, KY (PRWEB) October 22, 2011

Farm Credit Services of Mid-America, a $ 17.5 billion financial services cooperative serving more than 92,500 farmers and rural residents in Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana and Tennessee announced that five customer-members have been elected to the organizations Board of Directors.

The elected board members include new members Kaye Hurst Whitehead of Muncie, Indiana (Delaware County) and Brandon Robbins of Cookeville, Tennessee (Putnam County). The incumbents are Dan Flanagan of Campbellsville, Kentucky (Taylor County) and Andrew Wilson of Somerset, Ohio (Perry County). Their terms run through October, 2015. Additionally, Kathryn Eschbacher-Timberlake of Mauckport, Indiana (Harrison County) was elected to fill a vacancy on a two-year term. Her term runs through October, 2013.

They are a part of an 18-person board who meet monthly in Louisville, Kentucky, the cooperatives headquarters, where they set policies and the overall direction for the association. Additionally, Farm Credit owner-members elected a 20-person nominating committee who will meet next June to select candidates for the 2012 cooperative elections. More than 8,000 members cast ballots in the elections. Participating in the election process is one of the benefits of cooperative membership.

2011 Board of Directors Election Results

The following Farm Credit members were elected to the board of directors in October 2011:

Kaye Hurst Whitehead

Muncie, Indiana (Delaware County) Four-year term

As president of Seldom Rest Farms, Kaye owns 1,200 acres and leases an additional 2,300 acres where she raises corn, soybeans, wheat and hay and has a farrow-to-finish hog operation. She has served on a number of local, state and national pork and agriculture boards. Kaye received her Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the University of Kentucky.

Dan Flanagan

Campbellsville, Kentucky (Taylor County) Four-year term

Dan farms under the names of 4-E Farms, Inc. and Saloma Chick Litter Company. The operation consists of 500 acres owned and 250 leased where they raise poultry, grain and produce. Dan has served on the Farm Credit board since 2008. He is a member of several agriculture organizations and was recently elected as chair of the Kentucky Council of Agriculture. Dan has a Bachelor of Arts from Campbellsville College as well as Masters Degrees from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and the University of Louisville.

Andrew Wilson

Somerset, Ohio (Perry County) Four-year term

Andrew is a swine contract grower. He owns 345 acres and leases an additional 300 acres where he also raises corn, soybeans, wheat and hay and has a cow-calf operation. A member of the Farm Credit board since 2008, Andrew is active in the state and local Farm Bureau. He received his Bachelor of Science in AgriBusiness from Wilmington College.

Brandon Robbins

Cookeville, Tennessee (Putnam County) Four-year term

Brandon is co-owner of Mountain Farm International. On 1,350 acres, he also has a cow-calf operation under the name of R&R Farms. He is a former Farm Credit Services financial services officer and received his Bachelor of Science from Middle Tennessee State University.

Kathryn Eschbacher-Timberlake

Mauckport, Indiana (Harrison County) Two-year term

Kathryn is a clerk for the Department of Child Services of Indiana-Harrison County. She also has a 206-acre farm consisting of Polled Hereford cattle, hay, corn, soybeans and timber. She is involved in a number of state and national cattle organizations and received her Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Sullivan University in Louisville, Kentucky.

2012 Nominating Committee Election Results

The following were elected to serve on the 2012 Nominating Committee. They will meet in June of 2012 to select candidates for the 2012 director and nominating committee elections.

INDIANA

Darwin Brewer Rushville

Michael Cox Fowler

Allen Mohler Lebanon

Mark Townsend Hartford City

Larry Underwood West Lafayette

KENTUCKY

Charles Dawson Jr. Maceo

Thomas Greathouse Midway

Mary Joan Hayden Philpot

Kenneth Mattingly Austin

Glenn Williams London

OHIO

Joe Garland Washington Court House

Rusty Goebel Stryker

Douglas Henry East Liberty

Wayne McMichael Wapakoneta

Jeff Wuthrick Alliance

TENNESSEE

Steve Harrison- Loudon

John Steve Lee Madisonville

Roger Meadows Halls

Ben Moore Dresden

Kyle Wills Greeneville

About Farm Credit Services of Mid-America

Farm Credit Services of Mid-America is a $ 17.1 billion financial services cooperative serving over 92,500 farmers, agribusinesses and rural residents in Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana and Tennessee. The association provides loans for all farm and rural living purposes including including real estate, operating loans, equipment loans, and housing loans. FCS also provides an array of financial services, including crop insurance and leases. For more information about Farm Credit, call 1-800-444-FARM or visit them on the web at http://www.e-farmcredit.com.

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Collingwood, Ontario (PRWEB) October 24, 2011

For the longest time in fact for the duration of last councils tenure, the zoning restrictions for Cranberry Mews (http://www.cranberrymews.com) the lifestyle retail centre at the north end of town, were as painful to managers of the centre as an abscess tooth. In fact the centre wasnt even allowed to have a dentist as a tenant.

Now, thanks to what Deputy Mayor Rick Lloyd attributes to a considerably more business friendly council than the previous administration, the abscess has been removed as these zoning restrictions are being lifted to accommodate a broader range of tenants and services.

An immediate benefit to Collingwood particularly residents on the north-west side of town, is that a new dentist Dr. Clarence Leung is bringing his clinic to Cranberry Mews, joining other health and lifestyle services that include Collingwood Sport Medicine and Rehabilitation Centre, Dr. Koo Orthopedic Surgeon. Active Life Conditioning and The Best You.

In the past, there were concerns that retail centers such as Cranberry Mews would just take business away from our downtown core. But I view Cranberry Mews as a gateway to our community, observes Deputy Mayor Rick Lloyd. When you have a location such as Cranberry Mews attracting new businesses to the area such as the new dentist, then it raises the bar for the community in terms of having more quality of life services.

Lloyd says whether its making zoning less restrictive for the likes of Cranberry Mews, or allowing downtown store owners to decide for themselves where to position an outdoor patio the message is the same. Were here to support business growth, not to throw up a bunch of obstacles that will make life more miserable for them and thats especially important for a tourism destination such as Collingwood.

Andres Paara of Lush Realty (http://www.lushrealty.com), the brokerage handling rentals for Cranberry Mews concurs. In our case, the current council is making it possible for Cranberry Mews to attract a broader range of core services whereas before with the previous council we couldnt even entertain the thought of having a dentist as a tenant and ultimately, it was Collingwood residents that were losing out.

CRANBERRY MEWS TODAY

Currently, Cranberry Mews tenants range from healthcare and quality of life service providers to retailers who cater to both whimsical and essential needs, including:

Sebastopol, California (PRWEB) October 25, 2011

Local author Ginny Scales-Medeiros explores the eternal question, “What is Normal?”, debuting her novel at 1:30 PM on Saturday, December 3, 2011 at Copperfield’s Books in Sebastopol, California.

What is Normal? is a dramatic fictional novel based on the inspiring true story of Sue. Normal for Sue growing up was being a high school dropout of teenage parents, backwoods living, strict Baptist upbringing, poorly made clothes, even living in a trailer that is now a chicken coop. Later, normal is discovering the power of lying, stealing, alcohol, and drugs. Normal is mastering the art of selling, making headline news, patenting a new invention and landing in a movie, reaching in the end not a “normal”, but an authentic life.

Author Ginny Scales-Medeiros is a local entrepreneur, inventor and marketing consultant. She said current events helped inspire her to write “What is Normal?”. She wanted to write a story that would motivate people to overcome their blocks and find their true callings.

When I see things like the Occupy Wall Street movement, Occupy Together, said Scales-Medeiros, millions of people must be asking themselves, “What is Normal?” What they need to do is work on their own dreams; get away from what society and the media are trying to feed us, and find what is real for them, like Sue in the book.”

Scales-Medeiros was born and raised in rural upstate New York and now resides in the San Francisco North Bay Area. Finishing only the ninth grade and getting her GED, she went on to become an entrepreneur, a real-estate investor, an inventor with multiple patents, and an advocate for animal rights. With her first invention, she won first place in the New Woman Magazine Contest For New Ideas. A successful marketing consultant in the auto industry, she applied her experience and created over a million dollars of free publicity for her sunless tanning invention, including on-air guest appearances selling her Blacklight Sunless Tanning system on QVC. As a consultant for ZAP, an electric car company, she started driving electric cars and let go of her gas auto completely, earning a role in the 2011 documentary, What is theElectric Car?

Part of the reason I wrote this book is that in the process of patenting my invention, I met so many people who had their own great ideas, but did not believe they could actually manifest them. I want What is Normal? to inspire people to get off the couch and start creating the life they want and get their passion back. When you feel the contrast of your life compared to Sue’s, you will no longer be allowed to make excuses for not working towards your own dreams. I hope it will give readers a jump-start in their own life, set them free, and entertain while doing it.”

The title is now available in ebook for $ 5.99 US through Mojocastle Press (http://www.mojocastle.com) and in *Paperback, Adobe Acrobat, Palm DOC/iSolo, Hiebook, HTML, Mobipocket (.prc), and Rocketbook. Ebooks are also available via Omnilit.com, Barnesandnoble.com, and Amazon.com. * Paperback Books can be purchased through Mojocastle & Amazon.com

Copperfields Books will stock the paperback book before the signing, starting November 1, 2011.

To reiterate: The book signing will take place on Saturday, December 3, 2011 from 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM at Copperfields Books, 176 North Main Street, Sebastopol, California, 95472, 707-829-0429, website: http://copperfieldsbooks.com

While this is the debut for author Scales-Medeiros, the book release and signing at Copperfield’s Books is only the beginning. For more information about the novel What is Normal? and her media tour, visit the website: http://www.whatisnormal.tv and join the book’s fan page: http://www.facebook.com/GinnyMedeiros.

Book Release

Saturday, 1:30 PM

December 3, 2011

Copperfields Books

176 North Main Street

Sebastopol, California

Author Contact: 707-291-9685

Agent Contact: 435-613-6398

Publisher Contact: 703-946-8946

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Louisville, KY (PRWEB) October 26, 2011

An initiative launched by the Tennessee and Kentucky Cattlemens Associations and Farm Credit Services of Mid-America will help ensure youth in those states continue to have a vested interest in the cattle industry.

The 2011 Heifer Initiative awards funds to help six youth purchase heifers of their own. The winners three from each state in various age divisions will be selected based questions answered on the applications and their responses to essay questions.

One winner will be selected in each age division in each state based on the originality from the essay writer. Each of the six winners will receive up to $ 2,000 to purchase a heifer from a cattle association member.

Its a great way to support the members of our states cattle associations and it creates a good base of youth who could be future members of the association and involved in the cattle industry, said Shane Williams, financial services officer from Athens, Tennessee.

The Heifer Initiative essays are due in December to the Kentucky and Tennessee Cattlemens Associations. Copies of the application, with additional instructions and a mailing address, are available online at http://www.e-farmcredit.com (click on Community, then Heifer Initiative, then select Kentucky or Tennessee). You can also stop by your local Farm Credit office for an application. Winners will be announced at the Kentucky and Tennessee Cattlemens Associations annual conventions in January.

Joel Oney, regional vice president in eastern Kentucky, encourages youth with an interest in the cattle industry to participate in the program and is proud to have Farm Credit Services help sponsor and promote the initiative. Each year, we allocate funds to help support projects that advance our stewardship mission to support youth and young farmer groups. This program supports both. We believe that todays youth are vital to the future of the farm and cattle industry.

About Farm Credit Services of Mid-America

Farm Credit Services of Mid-America is a $ 17.1 billion financial services cooperative serving over 92,500 farmers, agribusinesses and rural residents in Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana and Tennessee. The association provides loans for all farm and rural living purposes including including real estate, operating loans,equipment loans, and housing loans. FCS also provides an array of financial services, including crop insurance and leases. For more information about Farm Credit, call 1-800-444-FARM or visit them on the web at http://www.e-farmcredit.com.

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COLUMBUS, OH (PRWEB) October 27, 2011

Red Mortgage Capital, LLC provided permanent financing for three assisted living senior communities in north-central Ohio utilizing FHA Section 232/223(f) mortgage insurance and Ginnie Mae Mortgage Backed Securities (GNMA MBS). The FHA insured loans paid off interim financing that related entity Red Capital Partners, LLC had provided to facilitate acquisition of the properties by New York City-based Premier Senior Living, LLC (Premier), a privately-owned owner/operator of seniors housing.

Three FHA LEAN loans totaling $ 19,920,000 were funded respectively for The Inn at Fountain Park in Bryan, OH; The Inn at Westbrook in Upper Sandusky, OH; and The Inn at Orchard Park in Bucyrus, OH. The 35-year fully amortizing loans are non-recourse and each carries a highly attractive fixed interest rate for the term of the financing.

The Ohio loans are the first to close in a pipeline of transactions nationwide where RED is providing experienced owners with proprietary capital on an interim basis and arranging the permanent Agency financing.

For the Premier transactions, REDs ability to provide proprietary capital and efficiently arrange non-recourse, long term financing was essential to meeting the owners needs, as there was a limited timeframe in which to execute the acquisition. Although the owner originally sought permanent acquisition financing, when it became apparent that such financing would not be available in the required timeframe, Red Capital Partners, LLC (RCP) stepped in to bridge the timing gap and provided acquisition capital while the permanent solution was being secured. The interim bridge loan subsequently was paid off via the FHA 232/223(f) insured loans underwritten and processed by Red Mortgage Capital, LLC.

Christian R. Mauger, Senior Managing Director of principal lending entity Red Capital Partners, LLC said, As a non-bank financial institution, we can move quickly on bridge-to-permanent solutions to help clients secure opportunities like this, where we bridge the timing difference until the permanent capital structure can be delivered. We tailor the structure of each transaction and also make the transition from interim to permanent as streamlined and simple as possible for the owner.

The permanent financing of the Premier projects also marks the completion of RCPs first interim loans made since it previously had suspended activities under a commercial bank parent entity. A sale from that entity in mid-2010 allowed RCP to re-launch its principal lending activities for multifamily and seniors housing properties. Since RCP resumed providing bridge-to-permanent solutions in the past year, it has made eight interim loans totaling more than $ 80 million.

James F. Sherman, Senior Managing Director of Red Mortgage Capital, LLCs Senior Living Group and Jason D. Smeck, Director and lead banker on the FHA permanent financings added, RED has a unique capability in that we have capital and specific expertise as a top Agency lender to help buyers execute quickly on acquisitions and take advantage of windows of opportunity. It was a privilege to work with Premier Senior Living to help them secure these excellent additions for their growing portfolio.

Operating nationwide since its inception in 1990, RED CAPITAL GROUP, LLC is recognized for its industry expertise, innovative and comprehensive structures, and consistently high lender rankings. Red Mortgage Capital, LLC is the nations most active FHA Multifamily/Healthcare lender (HUD FY2010), a top Fannie Mae DUS lender for multifamily and seniors and a national Freddie Mac Seniors Housing Seller/Servicer. Red Mortgage Capital, LLC also services nearly $ 14.5 billion in commercial multifamily and senior living loans.

RED CAPITAL GROUP, LLC is committed to being the nations premier provider of capital across the spectrum of asset classes.

About RED CAPITAL GROUP, LLC

RED CAPITAL GROUP, through three operating companies, provides integrated debt and equity capital to the multifamily, student and seniors housing, and health care industries. Red Mortgage Capital, LLC is: a leading Fannie Mae DUS

Mt. Crested Butte, Colo (PRWEB) October 27, 2011

Access to Crested Butte this winter is quick and easy thanks to direct, non-stop flights into the Gunnison/Crested Butte (GUC) Regional Airport from several major cities across the country. Crested Butte Mountain Resort (CBMR) and the Gunnison County Rural Transportation Association announce air service for the 2011-2012 winter season from three major carriers: American Airlines, Continental Airlines and United Airlines, with flights from Dallas (DFW), Houston (IAH) and Denver (DEN). Through each carriers extensive flight network, guests can get to Crested Butte from anywhere in the world. And, CBMRs Friends & Family Fly Free offer returns for another season, making air travel affordable and accessible.

United Airlines flights between Denver and Gunnison/Crested Butte run throughout the year. Flights from Houston on Continental, and Dallas/Ft. Worth on American Airlines begin December 15, 2011 and continue through early April 2012.

The Gunnison/Crested Butte Airport is located in Gunnison, Colo. and features a hassle-free, convenient travel alternative to the larger airports in the state. Crested Butte is an easy 30-minute drive from the GUC airport and shuttle service and car rentals are available.

The Montrose Regional Airport offers another great alternative to driving from one of the states larger airports. Montrose is located about one and one-half hours from Crested Butte and the airport hosts direct, non-stop flights from Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas/Ft Worth, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles and Newark. Shuttle service and car rentals are also available from the Montrose Regional Airport.

Again this year, guests to CBMR can take advantage of the resorts Friends & Family Fly Free offer when traveling by air to the Gunnison/Crested Butte airport. The offer is simple: buy two airline tickets and get the third free when staying in select lodging. The maximum number of free tickets per itinerary is three. Maximum travel credit is $ 500. For information or reservations visit the website at http://www.skicb.com or call Crested Butte Vacations at 800-600-2803.

Other Crested Butte Vacations Packages:

Book Early Save BIG: Book by November 1, 2011 and receive 20 percent off

Guests to Crested Butte can discover value by booking early. CBMRs Book Early and Save BIG offer includes a 20 percent discount on lodging for reservations confirmed by November 1, 2011. Reservations must be confirmed by November 1, 2011. Minimum four-night stay required. Based upon availability with no blackout dates.http://www.skicb.com.

4th Night and 4th Day Free: January 3 March 9, 2012

Enjoy some of the best conditions of the season and an additional nights lodging and day of skiing free. Purchase three nights of lodging and three days of lift tickets between January 3 and March 9, 2012 and receive a fourth night of lodging and fourth day of skiing free. Blackout dates apply. This package is available only through Crested Butte Vacations: 800-600-2803.

About Crested Butte:

Nestled in the heart of Colorados Rocky Mountains, Crested Butte is committed to preserving the pristine landscape and mountain lifestyle. With vibrant Victorian store-fronts and expressive local characters, the small historic town remains true to its heritage and radiates an unparalleled welcoming and inviting spirit that celebrates a simpler life and time. Thanks to a widely diverse landscape outdoor enthusiasts of all levels will find a new challenge with each visit. From world-class mountain biking, to legendary skiing and snowboarding, to a secluded fly-fishing experience, Crested Butte is one of Colorados best-kept secrets.

For more information about Crested Butte’s lodging, conference, meeting facilities, and special packages, call Crested Butte Vacations, (800) 600-2803 or visit the web site at http://www.skicb.com. For information on ski area real estate opportunities call (970) 349-4999 or (877) 805-6109 or visit the website at http://www.cbliving.com.

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Lafayette, CA (PRWEB) November 01, 2011

Dana Green, the top Realtor in Lafayette and Contra Costa County, has produced four new Lafayette neighborhood videos, now viewable on the Dana Green Team website.

The Dana Green Team videos offer a new and unique approach to introduce prospective Lafayette home buyers to available Lafayette neighborhood and lifestyle choices.

Lafayette, located off Highway 24 in Contra Costa County, is considered by many to be a perfect blend of urban and community. A town of approximately 24,000 people, Lafayette offers a small downtown feel and blue ribbon public schools along with easy BART access to San Francisco.

Dana Green narrates each video. She produced the four videos to reflect the way she introduces newcomers to Lafayette when touring by car.

Each of Lafayettes many neighborhoods has its own personality, says Dana Green, who is a Lafayette native and continues to live there with her husband and children. The best way to begin to learn Lafayette is to start by dividing the community into four quadrants that can be easily identified by our four Lafayette elementary schools.

All four of the new Lafayette neighborhood videos are available for viewing in the Lafayette Neighborhood Gallery on the Dana Green Teams recently redesigned website, http://www.DanaGreenTeam.com

The videos showcase the feel and amenities of living in the various neighborhoods in Lafayette and why the area is such a great place to live in, says Sarah Kellar of Dana Green Team.

The videos divide the Lafayette community into four quadrants, identified by its four award-winning public elementary schools:

Happy Valley Elementary (http://hves-lafsd-ca.schoolloop.com/) serves possibly the most prestigious neighborhoods in Lafayette, offering the largest selection of custom estate homes. Some of the homes can be found resting on hilltops offering panoramic views. The homes found at the valleys base are surrounded by beautiful landscaping and gated drives.

Springhill Elementary (http://ses-lafsd-ca.schoolloop.com/) serves many neighborhoods, including those in Reliez Valley, considered the communitys most rural area. Reliez Valley offers everything from larger traditional family neighborhoods and small courts off main roads, to the largest gated community. It also includes estates set back into the pastoral hills. The architecture of the homes found in Reliez Valley includes California ranch, East Coast traditional, and even a few original farmhouses.

The Downtown Lafayette video includes neighborhoods served by Lafayette Elementary (http://les-lafsd-ca.schoolloop.com/). This Lafayette quadrant offers some of the most diversified housing options available in Lafayette. Large custom homes with graceful architecture, modest ones with manicured lawns, and many others in between including condos and rental apartments are all available in the thriving downtown Lafayette area.

Burton Valley Elementary (http://bves-lafsd-ca.schoolloop.com/), the largest of the Lafayette elementary schools, serves Lafayettes more traditional suburban neighborhoods. A variety of architecture is available, but California ranch homes prevail. Here, though, a big draw for newcomers is a more traditional neighborhood lifestyle.

The new Lafayette videos offer newcomers a helpful introduction to Lafayettes many neighborhood and home options.

The differences among Lafayettes many neighborhoods can be both subtle and obvious, says Dana Green, award-winning Lafayette Realtor and Lafayette native. Helping clients select the neighborhood that best matches their needs, lifestyle and financial goals is one of the most rewarding parts of my job.

For more information on Dana Green and her Lafayette Real Estate Team, call (925) 339-1918, email Dana(at)DanaGreenTeam(dot)com or visit http://www.DanaGreenTeam.com, where youll find the four Lafayette neighborhood videos, as well as a longer video that highlights Lafayettes many amenities.

Dana Green Lafayette is located at 777 Old Jonas Hill Road, Lafayette, CA 94549

About Dana Green

Lafayette Dana’s deep connection to Lafayette drives her professional success. As Lafayettes top-producing agent for several years running, she brings the same pride to her career as she does to being a resident of a Lafayette family friendly neighborhood. She finds it extremely rewarding to help others find their dream home and discover the unparalleled quality of life Lafayette has to offer.

With over 250 million dollars in transactions closed, a 15-year tenure in marketing and having owned her own highly successful staging company, Dana offers buyers and sellers alike a unique perspective on how to make the most of their home purchase or sale.

Every home Dana Green represents is staged to sell, a service she offers free to her clients. Driven, determined and passionate about her craft, Dana loves challenges and thrives on helping clients with their Lafayette real estate needs.

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Sydney, Australia (PRWEB) November 02, 2011

Property investment expert, Rick Otton, is known internationally for his creative approach to real estate. Always the innovator, Otton often leaves those involved in traditional property transactions in his wake. In a new, free, podcast, he candidly answers questions about his rent to buy strategies.

Earlier in 2011, Rick Otton launched his creativerealestate.com.au website as a free resource for those looking to discover if there are secrets of real estate investment that dont require bank negotiations, a hefty deposit and impeccable credit record. The no-obligation website uses free podcasts to deliver up-to-the-minute information – a further example of the creative approach Mr Otton takes to business.

In creating his recently released Q&A podcast, he asked the general community to submit their questions about implementing his strategies, and the answers, Rick Ottin says, go a long way to overcoming the mindset barriers that have been, he believes, wrongly instilled in us all.

We received questions from a variety of people, including from real estate agents wanting to understand how to become involved in the growing rent to buy market said Mr Otton.

He continued, In what has been described as a challenging real estate market, the real estate industry is suffering. Learning and embracing new strategies could open up new and lucrative markets for agents.

In the podcast Mr Otton answered questions that got into the nitty-gritty of:

> How his strategies work for all types of property, including houses, commercial and rural

> How it is possible to purchase a house without a huge deposit

> If and how titles are transferred

> How retirees can secure income streams through rent to buy property investing

> Some secrets of real estate investment of which most people are unaware

There is no doubt that rent to buy strategies, for home purchase particularly, are here to stay. said Mr Otton. The fact that this is one of the options offered as answers to a question about home ownership in the 2011 Australian Bureau of Statistics Census form, proves that it has become mainstream.

Mr Ottons Creative Real Estate Q&A podcast can be accessed, at no charge, at creativerealestate.com.au

About Rick Otton

Rick Otton is an original pioneer of creative property strategies. He is founder and CEO of We Buy Houses, a leading property enterprise which operates in the property markets of the United Kingdom, New Zealand, USA and Australia.

In 1991 he uncovered an innovative strategy of buying and selling real estate and went on to amass a portfolio of 76 properties in his first twelve months of active investing.

Since 2001, Rick has taught over 30,000 students to buy, sell and trade residential property without banks, debt or risk. By employing these same strategies many of Ricks students have made over a million dollars a year in cash and equity, using little or none of their own money, year after year.

In 2008 Rick revealed his strategies in the United Kingdom and became the creator of Houses for a Pound.

He has appeared in the following Australian TV programmes: 2004 ABC documentary Reality Bites and on Today Tonight, Insight and A Current Affair. In October 2007 Rick gave a way a house on national TV during 2 episodes of Channel 9s Hot Property.

Rick Otton has also been featured in Your Property Network, Australian Property Investor, Lifestyle Trader Magazines and in the books: The Secrets of Property Millionaires Exposed!, Ideas: Original Perspectives On Life and Business From Leading Thinkers, Think and Grow Rich in Property, Insider Property Secrets, and Walking With The Wise.

Mr Ottons free Creative Real Estate Q&A podcast can be accessed at creativerealestate.com.au

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Orland Park, IL (PRWEB) November 02, 2011

Illinois fire departments have been busy the last couple of months hosting open houses and community events to make the public more aware about fire safety, and more specifically, home fire sprinklers, culminating with national Fire Prevention Week (FPW) from October 9-15. However, those who missed the FPW residential fire sprinkler demonstrations, which display the tremendous speed of fire and the quick response of home fire sprinkler protection, are likely able to see these demonstrations year-round. According to the nonprofit Northern Illinois Fire Sprinkler Advisory Board, nearly 50 demonstrations have been held this year alone.

Tom Lia, executive director for the Northern Illinois Fire Sprinkler Advisory Board, explains that the Illinois fire service is committed to home fire sprinkler education throughout the year, not just FPW. Instead of reaching out to thousands of community members only during FPW, Illinois fire departments more likely reach tens of thousands through their continual educational outreach.

Every year during Fire Prevention Week, fire safety and prevention messages are prevalent in schools and media across the nation, but fire sprinkler education does not begin or end with Fire Prevention Week, says Lia. Fire Prevention Week is a great annual platform to promote residential fire sprinklers and explain the lifesaving benefits they provide to homeowners, but fire departments in Illinois understand that home fire sprinkler education needs to be ongoing.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, eight out of every 10 fire deaths occur in the home. In an effort to lower that statistic in their communities, 74 municipalities and fire protection districts in Illinois have local ordinances that require home fire sprinklers, however, many homeowners, both in Illinois and nationwide, are still unaware that fire sprinklers are available for homes and are unsure of how they operate. Their image of fire sprinklers is typically generated by Hollywood movies, which incorrectly portray fire sprinklers and create myths such as that all fire sprinklers activate at once.

To dispel these myths, explain how home fire sprinklers work, and demonstrate the lifesaving benefits fire sprinklers provide, Illinois fire departments outreach includes side-by-side and fire sprinkler trailer demonstrations.

Side-by-side demonstrations have been said to be the most dramatic and effective way to show large crowds how home fire sprinklers operate. A side-by-side demonstration consists of two 8x8x8-foot constructed cubes that are furnished to appear as similar rooms in a home with the only difference being that one is protected with a fire sprinkler and the other is not. Viewers can see in real time how quickly a fire can turn to flashover, the temperature at which everything in the room ignites, in the unsprinklered room. In the sprinklered room, they are able to see how quickly the fire sprinkler activates in response to the heat from the fire and the effectiveness of the sprinkler in controlling or extinguishing the fire.

The Illinois Fire Inspectors Association, Northern Illinois Fire Inspectors Association, Gurnee Fire Department, and Mokena Fire Protection District offer use of their fire sprinkler demonstration trailers to local fire departments. Fire sprinkler demonstrations trailers are also effective in showing how a single fire sprinkler in a room activates due to the heat from a fire.

Personnel from NIFSAB offer assistance to many of the fire departments in preparation for their events. Lia, who has helped conduct well over 300 side-by-side demonstrations as well as many fire sprinkler trailer demonstrations over the years, praises the fire departments for their fire sprinkler education and outreach efforts.

Illinois is consistently a top state for fire sprinkler demonstrations and education during Fire Prevention Week, however, it doesnt end there, adds Lia. Our States fire service recognizes the importance of providing home fire sprinkler messages year-round. Thats what makes the Illinois fire service stand out the most.

In 2011, side-by-side demonstrations have been conducted at the following:

Addison Fire Protection District

Alsip Fire Department

Bartlett FPD

Berwyn FD

Channahon FPD

Clarendon Hills FD

Darien-Woodridge FPD

Deerfield-Bannockburn FPD

Downers Grove FD

East Moline FD

Fire Sprinkler Fitters Local #281

Grayslake FPD

Gurnee FD

Harper College

Hinsdale Fire Department

Huntley FPD

Illinois Fire Inspectors Association

Itasca FPD

La Grange Park FD

Lake Bluff FD

Lake County Fair

Lake County Fire Safety Expo

Lake Forest FD

Lockport Township FPD

Long Grove FPD

Lyons FD

Manteno Community FPD

Merrionette Park FD

Mount Prospect FD

Mundelein FD

Moraine Valley Community College

Louisville, KY (PRWEB) November 05, 2011

Farm Credits Myhanh (pronounced mee han) Pham has spent virtually her entire 36 years turning challenges into achievements.

Consider: Myhanh was born in war-torn Vietnam in 1975, just two months before the fall of Saigon. Her father, an army officer in South Vietnam, was immediately imprisoned by the Vietnamese Communists for nine years. The family, which had been relatively affluent, lost almost everything. They became so poor that Myhanh had to begin working at the age of nine to help her mother support the family.

A few years after her father was released from prison, they were able to immigrate to the United States as beneficiaries of a U.S. humanitarian program. Two months after settling in Erie, Pennsylvania in 1993, her father and mother divorced. As the result, Myhanh and her mother became ineligible for the government assistance theyd been promised. So they moved to Louisville, Kentucky, where they lived with an uncles family in a two-bedroom apartment in a poor section of town.

We had no money and couldnt speak English, recalled Myhanh. All we had was our hope and determination to survive, and an appreciation that America had given us a chance. Myhanh graduated from high school in Vietnam, but realized if she was going to succeed in her new land, she needed to learn English. So she went back to Louisvilles Iroquois High School for a couple of years to better prepare herself. She also started working a minimum-wage job as a mail sorter, and then a second job encoding checks for a large bank, because neither required English.

After finishing high school for the second time in 1995, she began studies in finance at the University of Louisville, finishing a five-year bachelors degree program in three years. There was a period of time when she worked two jobs while attending the university. Although she had a knack for things numerical, Myhanh had a more fundamental reason for pursuing numbers in work and education.

It all came down to problems with English, she said. I decided to go with finance because working with numbers was easier for me. Soon after graduating in 1998, Myhanh landed a temporary, entry-level position with Farm Credit Services of Mid-America.

I was hired by Donna Turner, the Director of Loan Accounting, said Myhanh. At the time, I still wasnt good with English and had difficulty communicating clearly during the interview. But despite that, she gave me a chance to prove myself. She touched my life and permanently changed it. Shes retired now, but Ill never forget her.

Three months later, Myhanh became a permanent employee, followed by a series of increasing responsibility leading to her current position as an Internal Auditor-Finance in the associations corporate office in Louisville. With the help of Farm Credits Educational Assistance Program, she continued her education, earning a masters degree in business administration, a second bachelors degree in accounting, and a CPA designation. Shes also currently participating in Farm Credits Leadership College, preparing herself for future leadership opportunities.

Im very grateful to Farm Credit, because without them I wouldnt have been able to do the things Ive done, said Myhanh. Theyve got great programs to help employees.

The same year Myhanh joined Farm Credit, she also married Phi Tran, a fellow Vietnamese political refugee whom she described as a wonderful man and husband. The couple has two sons, Anthony, 11, and Andrew, 8. When Myhanh finally finishes her studies, she wants to spend more time with her family, and do volunteer work, feeling that its important to give back.

I consider myself to be blessed by God and very fortunate, said Myhanh, whos proud to have been a naturalized American citizen since 2000. Im thankful to America for giving me these opportunities. Im very grateful to my mother, my uncle, and my husband, who have all done so much for me. And Im also very thankful to my work family for supporting me during part of my journey.

Note from Myhanh I want to thank all those who have given me the opportunity to share the beauty of Vietnamese and our mother land Vietnam through the story of my life. I am just one of many proud Vietnamese Americans who are doing their best to preserve the Vietnamese tradition of turning challenges into achievements.

ABOUT FARM CREDIT SERVICES OF MID-AMERICA

Farm Credit Services of Mid-America is a $ 17.1 billion financial services cooperative serving over 92,500 farmers, agribusinesses and rural residents in Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana and Tennessee. The association provides loans for all farm and rural living purposes including including real estate, operating loans,equipment loans, and housing loans. FCS also provides an array of financial services, including crop insurance and leases. For more information about Farm Credit, call 1-800-444-FARM or visit them on the web at http://www.e-farmcredit.com.

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Fort Myers, Florida (PRWEB) November 11, 2011

The Fort Myers Regional Partnership received an Excellence in Economic Development Award from the International Economic Development Council for the Together for Business Integrated Marketing Campaign in the category of Paid Ad Campaign for communities with populations of more than 500,000.

The honor was presented at an awards ceremony in September during the IEDC Annual Conference in Charlotte, North Carolina.

“We recognize the Fort Myers Regional Partnership for providing successful strategies to promote new standards in economic development in this period of global recovery, said Dennis Coleman, IEDC chair. Our awards honor organizations and individuals for their efforts in creating positive change in communities. They are showing that they are at the forefront of the economic development profession and are using innovative and effective practices that can be replicated in other communities.”

The Excellence in Economic Awards Program annually recognizes the worlds best economic development programs and partnerships, marketing materials, and the years most influential leaders. The program honors organizations and individuals in 28 categories for their efforts in creating positive change in urban, suburban, and rural communities.

The mission of the integrated marketing campaign launched by the Fort Myers Regional Partnership was to leverage existing relationships within the community and the region to identify potential business candidates for expansion or location to Lee County. To accomplish this, the Fort Myers Regional Partnership implemented an aggressive and integrated fusion of both traditional and new-age marketing approaches for economic development.

Together for business has become our rallying cry throughout all elements of the campaign and was strategically implemented in advertising, marketing and promotional messages to engage all business leaders, residents, and industry partners, stated Jennifer Berg, marketing and communications director of the Fort Myers Regional Partnership.

Through the support and benefits of the public-private partnership with The Horizon Council to provide strategic direction, active involvement, and financial support of these integrated marketing efforts, the Partnership has effectively saturated the market with this message, thus increasing its effectiveness.

We are well underway to take our integrated marketing and communications plan to the next level in 2012 with creative and dynamic strategies from website presence, advertising, social media, and public relations to partnerships and online exposure reaching targeted audiences in and out of the market to make Lee County more vibrant and a better place for all of us, continued Berg.

The Fort Myers Regional Partnership, Lee Countys Economic Development Office, is driven by its long-term, forward-thinking mission to expand and diversify the local economy.

About the International Economic Development Council

The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is the premier membership organization dedicated to helping economic development professionals create high-quality jobs, develop vibrant communities and improve the quality of life in their regions. Serving more than 4,500 members, IEDC represents the largest network of economic development professionals in the world. IEDC provides a diverse range of services, including conferences, certification, professional development, publications, research, advisory services and legislative tracking.

About Fort Myers Regional Partnership

The Fort Myers Regional Partnership works to attract new and diversified businesses resulting in high-wage, high-skilled jobs; retains and encourages the expansion of existing businesses and improves the overall business environment. Lee County is a thriving business community with a highly regarded airport, significant corporate development and ample real estate opportunities. The area is attracting, retaining and growing high-value businesses with a unique blend of an outstanding business climate and superior quality of life. The county is home to five vibrant cities–Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, Cape Coral, Fort Myers Beach, and Sanibel–and is the heart of Southwest Florida.

The Partnership continues to promote and build the region through ongoing efforts from its proactive team of domestic and international recruiters, research staff and community liaisons, as well as through its partnerships with the Horizon Foundation, the Horizon Council and the Lee County Industrial Development Authority.

Since 1996, 5,546 new jobs and $ 1,065,570,586 in economic impact have been committed to as a direct result of key local incentive programs; Lee County Job Opportunity Program and the First Incentives for Recruiting Strategic Targets as well as State of Florida incentives and the State Closing Fund.

In addition to the core website, http://www.FortMyersRegionalPartnership.com, Fort Myers Regional Partnership can also be found on these popular social networking sites:

Editors Notes:

Unique story angles, resources and trend data are available in the online Media Center at http://www.FortMyersRegionalPartnership.com/AboutUs/MediaCenter

For executive interviews, success stories and additional media relations services, please contact Jennifer Berg, Fort Myers Regional Partnership, via phone at 239.338.3161 or email at JBerg(at)leegov(dot)com.

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Louisville, KY (PRWEB) November 15, 2011

Agriculture lender Farm Credit Services of Mid-America announced the association generated $ 191.6 million in net earnings during the first nine months of 2011, an increase of $ 30.5 million over the same period last year. Total earning assets increased more than $ 1 billion compared to the 3rd Quarter 2010.

President and Chief Executive Officer Bill Johnson said strong farm earnings continue to bolster the economy and that has had a positive impact on the earnings of the association. The farm sector continues to be a bright spot in an otherwise unpredictable economy, Johnson said. That, coupled with the low interest rate environment, has allowed us to offer competitive interest rates to customer-members on new loans so they are able to grow their operations.

At the same time, the credit quality of the associations portfolio is stable. Adversely classified loan volume was 4.1% of the loan portfolio compared to 4.2% at September 30, 2010.

The associations commitment to rural America remains strong. Johnson sited conversion activity as one example. Since the beginning of the year, Farm Credit has converted or refinanced 20,000 customer loans representing almost $ 3.5 billion in volume, lowering their interest rates almost three-quarters of a percent and saving those customers a total of $ 75 million in interest over three years. Our fee for conversions is as low as $ 350 with very minimal paperwork. Our customers are surprised that we can lower their interest rate even on fixed rate loans.

Another way the association is providing value to rural communities is through the availability of long-term fixed rate financing for farms. Currently 36% of our customers have loans on fixed rates of 10 years or longer. In todays volatile farm environment, where farms are experiencing rising operating expenses, wide swings in commodity prices and uncertainty with exports, its even more critical that they manage their operational risk. One way to do so is to ensure that the cost of their financing remains consistent.

Johnson added that the strategic plan calls for continued growth. Well do that by making certain that our products and programs fit our customers needs and adapting to the changing demands of a new agriculture marketplace. Its all about providing value to those who live and work in rural America.

To see the complete results, go to http://www.e-farmcredit.com, select News, then Quarterly Report.

About Farm Credit Services of Mid-America

Farm Credit Services of Mid-America is a $ 17.1 billion financial services cooperative serving over 92,500 farmers, agribusinesses and rural residents in Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana and Tennessee. The association provides loans for all farm and rural living purposes including including real estate, operating loans,equipment loans, and housing loans. FCS also provides an array of financial services, including crop insurance and leases. For more information about Farm Credit, call 1-800-444-FARM or visit them on the web at http://www.e-farmcredit.com.

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(PRWEB) November 18, 2011

For a young livestock showman, bringing home a banner or trophy from the State Fair represents the ultimate goal of a year of hard work and dedication with their 4-H or FFA animal. However in Ohio in 2011, that almost didnt happen.

Farm Credits Southwest Ohio Regional Vice President Mike Westfall told how he learned of the Fairs impending dilemma.

My wife is on one of the State Fair livestock committees, and after one of their meetings, said that all funding for 4-H and FFA awards and premiums at the State Fair had been eliminated, said Westfall. They really didnt know what they were going to do.

Westfall suggested applying for a grant from Farm Credits Greater Support for Rural America program, which provides funds to support agriculture, giving priority to youth and young farmers. He and his wife collaborated with Ohio State Fair General Manager Virgil Strickler to write the request, and a few months later, were notified that Farm Credit would donate $ 21,000. This would cover half the cost of awards and premiums for the beef, swine, chicken, sheep and goat shows, with the remaining half being furnished by other supporters. In all, these shows included 5,000 youth exhibiting 8,000 animals.

Ohio State Fair General Manager Virgil Strickler is a former 4-H and FFA member himself and knows well the importance of those programs to a young persons development. He also recognizes the role of tangible awards in motivating and reinforcing leadership development, work ethic, responsibility, and many other lessons.

In todays economic environment, everyones budget is tight and theres no way we could have funded those awards on our own, he said. We were very fortunate to have Farm Credit and others step forward to help us. Without the awards, it would have really hurt our shows, and we feel its extremely important to keep the agricultural side of the fair going. The families of the young people were also very appreciative.

Westfall, also a former 4-Her, now serves on one of the State Fair livestock committee as well as the Ohio 4-H Foundation Board. He was glad to have been a link in helping to keep a tradition alive.

At Farm Credit, a very large percent of our employees have been in 4-H or FFA and many have children in those programs, so were very aware of their value. There are few things as rewarding as being able to help kids who have worked on their projects all year, he said. We get as much out of it as they do.

Westfall added that helping rural communities is an integral part of Farm Credits mission.

Were here to support both agriculture and rural communities, and 4-H and FFA are an important part of their fabric, he said. Our mission goes beyond just providing financial services. Thats why we have a stewardship programwe use some of our profits to put back into those rural communities we serve.

Earlier this month, Farm Credit announced that the ag lender will also support the program in 2012.

About Farm Credit Services of Mid-America

Farm Credit Services of Mid-America is a $ 17.1 billion financial services cooperative serving over 92,500 farmers, agribusinesses and rural residents in Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana and Tennessee. The association provides loans for all farm and rural living purposes including including real estate, operating loans,equipment loans, and housing loans. FCS also provides an array of financial services, including crop insurance and leases. For more information about Farm Credit, call 1-800-444-FARM or visit them on the web at http://www.e-farmcredit.com.

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