Month: February 2010

Fast-growing seasoning company expands product line

Posted by Sarah Malak – February 26, 2010

Knoxville, TN – What began as a home-grown family recipe more than 40 years ago is now fueling rapid company growth, an extended product line and expanded distribution on the shelves of the country’s major grocery chains for BKW Seasonings.

A little more than two years ago, the Beeler family of Knoxville, Tenn. began their adventure of starting a company called BKW Seasonings. Today, the company’s products, which are marketed under the brand name “Big Kahuna Blends,” are available in more than 1,100 grocery stores throughout 20 states.

BKW Seasonings recently added three new, unique flavors: Butter Blend, New ImagePepper Blend and Cajun Rub flavors, in addition to its Original Gourmet Blend, Light Blend, FIRE Blend and Barbeque Rub flavors. The company now offers a total of seven unique gourmet blends.

“Enthusiastic consumer acceptance and the growing demand for our products were the drivers for expanding the product line,” said Matt Beeler, Founder and President of BKW Seasonings. “BKW Seasonings has a great customer base and we wanted to give our customers more flavors to choose from and more options for cooking in the kitchen.”

The Original blend was created in the 1960s to produce a unique, dry buffalo wing. Today, the various blends may be used on any food, from steak, chicken, and hamburgers to eggs and popcorn.

BKW’s Big Kahuna Blends are available at all Food City, Harris Teeter, and Bi-Lo grocery stores, and will be available in all Winn-Dixie stores by the end of March.  They can also be found at several Fresh Market locations, plus other independent and specialty shops.

For more information on BKW’s Big Kahuna Blends, visit www.BKWSeasonings.com.

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Media Contact:
Sarah Malak
(865) 584-0550
SMalak@AckermannPR.com

Show your pet love…positively

Posted by Sarah Malak – February 23, 2010

imagesKnoxville, Tenn. – Training your dog is one of the best ways to enjoy your relationship to the fullest. Luckily, there’s a pet safety company that’s just as passionate about giving your dog the best training available. Radio Systems Corporation, makers of the PetSafe brand, is focused on giving its customers a wide variety of training methods to choose from, whether the instruction is based on correcting your pet or positive reinforcement.

That’s why Radio Systems Corporation has acquired Unleashed Technology brand, which has a unique remote trainer product line completely dedicated to positive reinforcement.  The design approach behind the system is to utilize electronic stimuli to stand in for the physical force of traditional leash pressure and establish a positive bond that will carry forward into off-leash control.

Unleashed Technology’s Wireless Leash Guidance Training System is applied by using varying levels of significantly different stimuli, including vibration, to simulate the different pulling pressures one exerts on a dog during normal walking or training exercises. In turn, the line allows owners/handlers the capability to signal a dog at a distance whenever the dog is doing the correct behavior.

“The Unleashed Technology brand is an exciting addition to Radio Systems Corporation. This product line is focused on creating a positive system that instantly signals your dog when a correct behavior is displayed or when the owner wants the dog to begin a response,” said Randy Boyd, founder and CEO of Radio Systems. “Rather than waiting for the dog to do something wrong, this line allows handlers to be the ‘coach’ by reacting to positive behavior. The outcome is really more fun for everyone involved.”

Unleashed Technology’s line includes three variations of a remote control training system. Unleashed Technology’s first type of trainer is a vibration-only model, while the second exerts vibration plus a very low stimulation and the third applies vibration plus a stronger stimulation. All three products are positioned to capture the consumer who is static-averse and only interested in very low levels of stimulation for their pet.

“PetSafe’s Strategic Business Unit and Innovations departments identified this type of product as a gap in our current product offerings,” said Boyd. “This is a great way for us to reach out to a completely new audience in giving them a static-free method of training their dog.”

For more information on Unleashed Technology, visit www.unleashedtechnology.com.

About PetSafe®

Headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee, PetSafe® is the industry leader in the management of pet behavior, offering pet training, containment, safety and lifestyle product solutions. PetSafe® introduced the first do-it-yourself electronic fence to the pet market in 1991 and the first wireless fence in 1998. PetSafe’s product line up includes: kennels and electronic underground fences; bark control systems; a selection of remote training products; pet doors; pet identification collars; heated wellness products; pet feeders and a growing line of lifestyle products. For more information about PetSafe®, visit: www.petsafe.net.

For more information:
Sarah Malak, Ackermann PR
865-584-0550
SMalak@ackermannpr.com

Food or heat or health care?

Posted by Shane Rhyne – February 19, 2010

Thousands of East Tennesseans face this decision daily

Second Harvest logoKnoxville, TN – It is a frightening sign of our troubled economy. Every night in East Tennessee more than 245,500 people go to bed not sure if they will have food to eat in the next few days. Many of them are families with children.

Every month more than 16,000 of our neighbors must choose between buying food and paying for heat. Almost the same number faces choosing between food and health care.

These are the hard realities discovered during a national survey on hunger. Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee participated in the study, which was conducted on behalf of Feeding America, the national organization of which Second Harvest is a member.

“We know the demand for food continues to grow,” said Elaine Streno, Executive Director of Second Harvest.  “I’m not sure we fully realized just how dire things are for so many people across 18 counties, from the plateau to the mountains.”

Many of those in need are just average folks. Only 8 percent of the 36,800 different people helped in a week are homeless and almost a quarter of those helped are in households where there is at least one employed adult.

“People are working and still unsure they can feed their family,” said Streno. “That’s a situation than can leave a person almost hopeless.”

The impact of Second Harvest is deep. Second Harvest supplies an average of 78% of the food distributed by area pantries, 67% of the food distributed by kitchens, and 54% of the food distributed by shelters. Group homes and many service organizations also get their food from Second Harvest.

“What it all means to us is this: more and more people need food and we will need to raise more money to meet that need,” says Streno. “Even though we can provide three meals for only a dollar, the task before us is still daunting.”

If you are interested in supporting Second Harvest, or work as part of an agency or food bank and are interested in setting up an interview with a Second Harvest representative, please call Elaine Streno at 865-850-4284.  For more info visit: www.secondharvestknox.org

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Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee, a member of Feeding America, has worked to eliminate hunger since 1982.  In 2009, this organization provided food for more than 9.7 million meals in 18 counties in East Tennessee.  With 6 major programs and 450 Agency/Food Partners, Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee distributes food to more than 145,000 kids, adults and seniors each month.  The service area includes Anderson, Blount, Campbell, Claiborne , Cocke, Cumberland, Fentress, Grainger, Hamblen, Jefferson, Knox, Loudon, Monroe, Morgan, Roane, Scott, Sevier and Union Counties.

Media Contact:
Elaine Streno
(865) 850-4284

Harmony Adoptions Hosts 3rd Annual Chillin’ for Children

Posted by Amelia Daniels – February 19, 2010

 

DSCN0189

Maryville, Tenn.  -  More than 50 adoption advocates will brave the chilly waters of the Little River in Blount County as they bring awareness to the hundreds of children waiting to be adopted in Tennessee.  This is the third year that Harmony Adoptions, one of the state’s leading adoption agencies, is hosting Chillin’ for Children to be held Friday, Feb. 19 at 3 p.m.

Dressed up in themed costumes, groups of people who are all connected to adoption in some way will jump into freezing cold water while being judged on creativity and style.  Pam Wolf, CEO of Harmony Adoptions, says, “By raising some eyebrows, we’re raising awareness for adoption as we take the plunge together.”  Blount County Mayor Jerry Cunningham and City of Knoxville Mayor will be on hand.  Mayor Haslam will deliver the pre-plunge address.

As much as Chillin’ for Children raises awareness for the 400+ children currently in state custody, this event also strengthens the partnerships of the agencies that work together to find permanent homes for these foster children.  Harmony Adoptions Community Development Director, Jim Norwood says, “As adoption advocates, we come together as colleagues sharing our success stories and challenges, but after this event, we leave as friends.”  Norwood says that spirit of togetherness makes a difference when a child’s future is in their collective hands. 

Brian Buuck of Oak Ridge is jumping for the first time. “Depending on how bad the frost bite is, it may be my last,” kids Buuck.  Adoption is close to Buuck’s heart, as someone who worked in a foster care program and whose sister adopted her son, Alex.  Buuck is now the COO of Ridgeview Mental Health.  “The discomfort of a few seconds in the ice cold water fails in comparison to what children without a home experience.”

The following agencies are joining Harmony Adoptions for Chillin’ for Children this year:  The Department of Children’s Services (DCS), Camelot Care Centers, Health Connect, Helen Ross McNabb Center, Holston Homes for Children, Omni Visions, Ridgeview Mental Health, Tennessee Alliance for Children and Families and Youth Villages.

The Blount County Rescue Squad will be on hand to assist if needed.  Starbucks in Maryville will provide hot chocolate and coffee and Anderson Rental will supply a generator and heaters.  The community is invited to attend Chillin’ for Children.  For participant information, contact Jim Norwood at jnorwood@harmony.cc.

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MEDIA CONTACT:       
Amelia Daniels                                 
adaniels@ackermannpr.com     
Ackermann PR                                           
(865) 365-5847

‘Healthy pet stations’ provide a healthier choice for free-flowing water and food

Posted by Sarah Malak – February 16, 2010

Healthy Pet Food Stations Group RetailKnoxville, Tenn. – Pets are considered a critical part of the family, providing love, affection and companionship. So why think twice about providing the healthiest products available on the market for your best friend? PetSafe®, the industry leader in pet safety and behavior products, recently introduced the Healthy Pet Water Station™ and Healthy Pet Food Station™, the first top-of-the-line gravity water and feeding stations with removable stainless steel bowls.  

PetSafe’s optional Healthy Pet Water Filter™ (sold separately) fits all sizes of the Healthy Pet Stations water units to remove chlorine, sediments and odor, providing pets with clean and healthy water which contributes to the prevention of urinary tract disease, kidney disease, constipation and dehydration.

Some pet food and water bowls and containers are made with plastic that includes Bisphenol A (BPA), a type of plastic that has drawn attention for its questionable affects on the health of humans and pets from leaching chemicals and toxins. The PetSafe Healthy Pet Stations are made from BPA-free and FDA food grade plastic.

The Healthy Pet Station’s stainless steel bowl is the most recommended material by veterinarians for pet food and water.  Stainless steel can be sanitized at high temperatures to eliminate the growth of harmful bacteria.  It is a non-porous surface, preventing allergic reactions and skin and nose irritations that other bowl materials may cause.   

The stations feature wide openings and are dishwasher safe. The water reservoirs feature flow-control caps and a top handle on the large so refills are simple and spills are not an issue. Plus, the stations are sleek and stylish and more modern than the traditional boxy, bulky water and feeder units.

Veterinarian Peter H. Eeg, DVM, Poolesville, MD, said, “I have had the opportunity to use both the water stations and the feeding stations on my personal animals and my hospitalized patients.  The greatest value is the removable stainless steel bowls.  They are not only very easy to remove and replace, they also allow for superior cleaning and removal of any debris or build up that occurs with normal use.”

“The Healthy Pet Stations’ design features and innovative style is unlike anything else in the market and will take existing gravity products to the next level,” said Charlotte Havely, PetSafe Pet Lifestyles Director.

The PetSafe Healthy Pet Water and Food Stations are sold separately and are available in three sizes: small, medium, and large. The stations are available at select PetSmart stores and online at Amazon.com and PetSafe.net.

About PetSafe®

Headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee, PetSafe® is the industry leader in the management of pet behavior, offering pet training, containment, safety and lifestyle product solutions. PetSafe® introduced the first do-it-yourself electronic fence to the pet market in 1991 and the first wireless fence in 1998. PetSafe’s product line up includes: kennels and electronic underground fences; bark control systems; a selection of remote training products; pet doors; pet identification collars; heated wellness products; pet feeders and a growing line of lifestyle products. For more information about PetSafe®, visit: www.petsafe.net.

For more information:
Sarah Malak, Ackermann PR
865-584-0550
SMalak@AckermannPR.com

Regis Philbin will christen Titanic Museum Attraction on Thursday, April 8 with descendants of those on board

Posted by Rick Laney – February 16, 2010

Regis Philbin

Regis Philbin

Pigeon Forge, Tenn. – The new $25 million dollar permanent Titanic Museum Attraction in Pigeon Forge, Tenn. will open on Thursday, April 8, 2010 at 10 a.m. with a star-studded Grand Opening hosted by Regis Philbin.  The event, which is open to the public, also will be attended by descendants and family members of those onboard the Titanic and includes a christening of the ship.

Philbin, best known for his television shows including Live With Regis & Kelly (Kathie Lee) and Who Wants to be A Millionaire, will serve as master of ceremonies during the Grand Opening.  Philbin’s television career started more than 50 years ago when he was a reporter in San Diego.  Since that time, he has become a national fixture with a string of Emmy Award-winning shows.  The christening and Grand Opening events, which take place outside of the Titanic Museum Attraction, are free and open to the public.

Titanic Museum Attraction in Pigeon Forge is a half-scale, permanent, three-deck reproduction of the Titanic.  The museum houses 20 galleries to display hundreds of authentic, priceless Titanic artifacts that were either carried from the ship and into lifeboats by passengers and crew, or were found afloat soon after the sinking and quickly salvaged by rescue boats.

Inside the Titanic Museum, visitors find full-size reproductions (built to actual Titanic blueprints) of a First Class suite, First Class hallways, Third Class accommodations and – the museum’s centerpiece – a $1 million exact reproduction of the Titanic’s Grand Staircase.  The First Class suite will be a tribute to Isidor and Ida Straus, owners of Macy’s Department Stores, which  was also the cabin used in James Cameron’s blockbuster movie Titanic as Rose’s suite.

“We pay respect to Titanic by telling the story of the ship and her passengers,” said John Joslyn, owner of the new Titanic Museum Attraction.  “Visitors learn the individual stories of those onboard the ship as they are learning about the ship itself.  We have spent years researching these people – and their stories are absolutely amazing.

“In addition to an unparalleled collection of artifacts, we have built the Titanic Museum as a completely interactive attraction.  You hear the wonderful stories as you’re going through the museum, but you are also experiencing things the way they were in 1912 when Titanic sailed.  It’s one thing to hear about the men who shoveled coal into the boilers – but it comes to life for you when you pick up that shovel and feel what it means to shovel coal into a furnace.”

A gallery in Titanic Museum Attration

A gallery in Titanic Museum Attration

In addition to being a world class museum in the truest sense of the word, Titanic Pigeon Forge is also highly interactive and offers a hands-on experience for children, teenagers and adults.  The ship is anchored in water to create the illusion of Titanic at sea, and a two hour self-guided tour gives guests the sensation of sailing on the original ship’s 1912 maiden voyage. Upon entry, each guest receives a boarding pass bearing the name of an actual Titanic passenger or crew member whose fate is revealed on the Memorial Wall at tour end. Along the way, powerful emotions surface as guests:

  • Walk Titanic’s Grand Staircase
  • Touch the frozen surface of an “iceberg”
  • Feel the chill of that fateful “Starry Night”
  • Test the 28 degree water
  • Interact with various Titanic models
  • Grip the ship’s wheel and follow the Captain’s command
  • Tour world-class galleries and the 300 rare historical artifacts
  • Sit in a Titanic lifeboat and listen to actual survivors tell their stories
  • Send an SOS from the Marconi Wireless Room
  • Test their balance while standing on mini-decks built to show the ever-steeper slope of Titanic as she sank
  • Watch children eight years and younger explore the special interactive TOT-Titanic Play-and-Learn Room.  1) steer a ship  2) Meet the Titanic Polar Bear 3) build the Titanic ship
  • Dive to Titanic’s wreck site via spectacular underwater camera footage from the owner who put the second Titanic expedition together and produced the first Titanic TV special.

The Titanic Museum Attraction Grand Opening event begins on Thursday, April 8, 2010 at 10 a.m. and continues with special events and celebrity guest appearances throughout the weekend.  Tickets to the new Titanic Museum, which will open April 8, are now available online at www.TitanicPigeonForge.com.  (Note: The outdoor Grand Opening and christening is free and open to the public, but admission to the Titanic Museum Attraction requires a ticket.)

Cedar Bay Entertainment is a privately owned entertainment and development company headquartered in Branson, Missouri, the original site of Cedar Bay’s first Titanic Museum Attraction.  Since its April 2006 grand opening, it has welcomed more than 2,000,000 guests.

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Media Contact
Rick Laney
(865) 584-0550
rlaney@ackermannpr.com

2010 UT Alumni Awards Nominations Sought

Posted by Lisa Hood Skinner – February 10, 2010

UT Logo

KNOXVILLE – Nominations are currently being accepted for the 2010 University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Alumni Awards. Nominations are due Feb. 19. The awards are sponsored by the UT Alumni Board of Directors.

This is the second year alumni will be honored for their service and professional or personal promise. A distinguished alumnus award also will be given. The three categories are:

  • The Distinguished Alumnus/Alumna Award pays tribute to outstanding leadership, service and philanthropy. Last year’s winners were Jim and Natalie Haslam, and Howard H. Baker Jr.
  • The Alumni Service Award acknowledges exceptional service or leadership to UT over a generous period of time.
  • The Alumni Promise Award recognizes alumni no older than 40 who are making an early mark in their career, civic involvement or both, showing bright promise for the future.

“UT’s graduates have achieved incredible milestones…building success in our society, educational system, business world and international policies,” said Lisa Hood Skinner, UT Alumni Board awards committee chair and senior vice president of Ackermann Public Relations. “It’s fitting that we recognize these distinguished alumni who provide exceptional support to their alma mater, give back to the community, demonstrate a promising future and overall encompass the Volunteer spirit.”

For online nomination forms and award criteria and descriptions, visit http://alumni.utk.edu/programs/awards/alumni.shtml.

The UT Alumni Board of Directors, established in 2009, incorporates alumni from various walks of life who provide insight and leadership to alumni operations and are active advocates for the university and its programs. Alan Wilson, chairman, president and CEO of McCormick & Company (commonly known as McCormick Spices), is chairman of the board of directors.

A recognition dinner on behalf of all recipients will be held Sept. 10, 2010, in Knoxville.

For further information and off-line nomination forms, contact Jane Kramer at (865) 974-3011.

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C O N T A C T :

Beth Gladden (865-974-9008 or bgladden@utk.edu)
Lisa Hood Skinner (865-584-0550 or lskinner@ackermannpr.com)

Special Valentine’s Menu at Ruby Tuesday Offers Three Chances at Love

Posted by Amelia Daniels – February 3, 2010

PR_Vday

Maryville, TN  – Although Valentine’s Day is on a Sunday this year, Ruby Tuesday will be “sharing the love” all weekend long. On February 12th, 13th and 14th, guests at Ruby’s can enjoy a special Valentine’s Dinner for Two that begins with a shared appetizer, includes two entrées, and ends with a romantic shareable dessert – all for only $19.99 per person.

After beginning with a craveable, generous-enough-for-two appetizer of Thai Phoon Shrimp, Spinach Artichoke Dip, Beef Queso Dip, or Southwestern Spring Rolls, guests can choose their main course from 18 premium entrées. Featured choices include any seared-to-perfection steak, a full rack of Ruby’s famous fork-tender ribs, the ever popular Chesapeake Catch and New Orleans Seafood, Asian Glazed Salmon, Salmon Florentine, or any premium lobster entrée. Lobster dinners include Lobster Tails, Lobster Carbonara, Steak & Lobster Tail, Lobster New Orleans and the amazing Steak & Lobster Mac and Cheese.

“This Valentine’s-weekend offer includes so many of our premium specialty dishes, couples can enjoy the ones they love along with the great value of the dinner-for-two special,” says Kimberly Grant, Ruby Tuesday’s Executive Vice President. “Why not treat your sweetheart to lobster this year in addition to flowers and chocolates?” she suggests.

Grant says of the bountiful seafood selection: “We unveiled some fabulous new dishes on our new menu a few months ago, and we can assure our guests they won’t find a higher-quality lobster or seafood dish for a better value than at Ruby Tuesday.” 

By ordering the Valentine’s Dinner for Two for $19.99 per person, couples can enjoy a bottle of their favorite wine or a Ruby Relaxer or Cosmopolitan cocktail with their savings. Ruby Tuesday recently introduced a premium cocktail menu that offers countless choices of $5 margaritas, martinis, mojitos, and classic cocktails, all prepared with premium brands such as Bacardi, Beefeater, Smirnoff, and Sauza.

And just in time for this lover’s holiday, Ruby Tuesday will be adding an authentic Italian Tiramisu to its already luscious line-up of dessert offerings. It’s made with mascarpone cheese and lady fingers soaked in rum and coffee liqueur. Other shareable dessert choices for Valentine’s Day are a moist Italian Cream Cake, rich and creamy New York Cheesecake, or a warm Double Chocolate Cake. “What better way to end a romantic meal than by sharing a slice of heaven with the one you love?” asks Grant. 

Ruby Tuesday is one of the few casual dining restaurants to offer online reservations. As an added convenience and a great way to avoid the wait, especially on the popular holiday weekend, make your reservation in advance by visiting www.RubyTuesday.com.

More information about the Valentine’s Dinner for Two special can also be found on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/RubyTuesday.

Media Contact
Amelia Daniels
Ackermann PR
(865) 584-0550 

About Ruby Tuesday

Ruby Tuesday, Inc. has company-owned and/or franchise Ruby Tuesday brand restaurants in 46 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, and 14 foreign countries.  As of December 1, 2009, the Company owned and operated 670 Ruby Tuesday restaurants, while domestic and international franchisees (including Hawaii) operated 171 and 55 restaurants, respectively.  For more information on Ruby Tuesday, please visit the company website at www.RubyTuesday.com.  Ruby Tuesday, Inc. is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (Symbol:  RT). 

Source: Ruby Tuesday, Inc.

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Leading pet safety company and veterinary college partner to improve lives of pets

Posted by Sarah Malak – February 2, 2010

imagesKnoxville, Tenn. – The more we know about how domestic animals  behave, the better we can care for them. That’s one of the reasons that PetSafe, the industry leader in pet safety and behavior products, will fund one of the few veterinary school behaviorist positions in the country. The newest Chair in Veterinary Behavior will work in the Small Animal Clinical Sciences department of the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Tennessee (UT), Knoxville.

The position was formed to research and gain understanding of animal behaviors that may jeopardize a pet remaining in a home environment. The ultimate goal of an animal behaviorist is to help protect the bond between a human and companion animal.

Responsibilities of the behavioral position include providing high quality instruction in domestic animal behavior to private veterinary practitioners, veterinary students and graduate students/residents and develop an outpatient companion animal behavior service and an independent, externally-funded research program. Teaching activities include a core introductory course in animal behavior for veterinary students, elective course(s) in the veterinary curriculum and assistance with a clinical rotation for senior veterinary students.

The Chair will represent the College on animal behavior issues at the local, state, national and international levels. Interaction with veterinarians and other constituents will be an integral part of the position.

Nationwide, there are fewer than 50 board-certified veterinary behaviorists, not enough to meet the need in even the country’s largest cities. Dr. Claudia Kirk, department head of Small Animal Clinical Sciences at the College, says the new faculty position puts the College on par with an elite group. “Very few colleges have a veterinary behaviorist on board,” says Kirk. “Since behavior issues are the number one reason why animals are surrendered to shelters, we will help fill an important gap in clinical service and in teaching veterinary students.  I look forward to the new discoveries that will help enrich the human-animal bond, improve the quality of life for pets and enhance the training of future veterinarians.”

Randy Boyd, founder and CEO of Radio Systems Corporation (makers of the PetSafe brand), recently launched an effort to make Knoxville and the surrounding area the Pet Friendliest Community in America. So, the PetSafe Chair is an opportunity to discover practical, science-based methods for responsible pet owners to be able to create and sustain a lasting bond. Boyd says, “This will be a win for UT, a win for our community and a win for animal welfare. UT will recruit a professor/researcher to lead this field of study and build clinical and research services around it.”

Boyd says there is a vacuum nationally in veterinary behavior, and the university, along with the community, will have the possibility of being the national leader in the area through this effort. “We hope to improve understanding of pets and thus improve their welfare. Some of the research initiatives will include but not be limited to: excessive vocalization in dogs; problem elimination; aggression; fears, anxieties and phobias; how behavior problems develop in pets; and investigation of the genetic basis of behavior and behavior problems.”

Funding for the PetSafe Chair is available to hire at the assistant or associate professor level. There will be additional funding for partial technical and research support. Both UT and PetSafe locations will serve as research/consultation sites. Salary for the position will depend on experience and qualifications.

Applicants should submit a letter of intent, current curriculum vitae, statement of research and teaching goals and contact information for three references (mailing and e-mail addresses and phone number) to Dr. William Thomas, Chair, Search Committee, Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, UT College of Veterinary Medicine, 2407 River Drive, Rm. C247, Knoxville, TN 37996. Review of applications will begin on March 1, 2010 and continue until the position is filled.

About PetSafe®

Headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee, PetSafe® is the industry leader in the management of pet behavior, offering pet training, containment, safety and lifestyle product solutions. PetSafe® introduced the first do-it-yourself electronic fence to the pet market in 1991 and the first wireless fence in 1998. PetSafe’s product line up includes: kennels and electronic underground fences; bark control systems; a selection of remote training products; pet doors; pet identification collars; heated wellness products; pet feeders and a growing line of lifestyle products. For more information about PetSafe®, visit: http://www.petsafe.net.

For more information:
Mike Cohen, Ackermann PR
865-584-0550
MCohen@AckermannPR.com

Revolutionary Clayton i-house arrives in Charleston, SC

Posted by Shane Rhyne – February 2, 2010

CHARLESTON, South Carolina – (February 2, 2010) – The new, Energy Star™ rated i-house from Clayton Homes has arrived in the Charleston area and can now be viewed, toured and purchased at Clayton Homes of N. Charleston. The model i-house – one of only a few nationwide – was built at Clayton’s Richfield facility.

The eco-friendly Clayton i-house, which is now available for purchase, launched nationally at thei-house exterior 1 in high res Berkshire-Hathaway Shareholders Meeting in Omaha, Neb. on May 2, 2009 when Warren Buffett showed the i-house to attendees. Since that time, the i-house has been featured on numerous national cable television news shows and in newspapers and magazines across the country.

The i-house is Energy Star™ rated, which means the home is at least 30 percent more energy efficient according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Although home buyers are likely to first notice the stylish design, cutting-edge color combinations and modern furnishings, the i-house also features solar panels, a rain water catchment system, high-end “low e” windows, a tankless water heater, low-flow faucets, easily renewable bamboo flooring and many other energy saving items.

“The i-house will change the way people look at our products and housing in general,” said Kevin Clayton, CEO of Clayton Homes. “We build these homes in a controlled environment away from the weather, so there’s a huge quality benefit simply because of how we build a home. We also have far less scrap in our building process than a traditional home, so there are tremendous cost savings we pass along to the homebuyer.”

Built with an exterior of cement board and architectural metal, the home’s most distinctive feature is the V-shaped roof over the primary living space that includes the i-house’s rainwater catchment system and solar panels. The primary living area includes a kitchen, bathroom and bedroom, and a deck connects it to a separate living area that features a bedroom or den, a full bath and a roof-top patio.

Clayton Homes says the i-house’s energy costs are less than $70 a month, but that figure drops to less than one dollar per day when the optional solar panel system is installed.

The i-house is consistent with the overall environmental focus at Clayton Homes, which is in the process of obtaining LEED certification – the national benchmark for eco-friendly design – at its Tennessee headquarters. Clayton has cut energy costs at its offices by 28 percent over the last two years, and has already started implementing many of the “green” features of the i-house into its traditional homes.

Although the i-house is expected to be a popular primary residence, it is also drawing considerable interest from people who wish to have a second home or vacation home because of its affordability, unique design and energy efficiency. The $8,000 first-time homebuyer’s tax credit, is expected to attract many first-time homebuyers, many of whom will be drawn to the modern design and energy efficiency of the i-house. More information is available at http://claytonihouse.com.

Clayton, the nation’s largest homebuilder, has built 1.5 million homes since 1934. Clayton homes are precision-built in 35 state-of-the-art, climate-controlled facilities strategically located throughout the United States.

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About Clayton Homes: A Berkshire-Hathaway Company, Clayton Homes is a national, vertically integrated housing company. Through its family of brands, Clayton Homes builds, sells, finances, leases, and insures a full spectrum of affordable housing and is the nation’s leader in housing.  Visit Clayton Homes at www.claytonhomes.com.

The i-house can be viewed, toured and purchased at Clayton Homes of N. Charleston, 6581 Rivers Ave. North Charleston, SC 29418. For more information call Allison Blankenship at (843) 572-6742.

For additional information/photos, contact:
Ryan Willis
rwillis@ackermannpr.com
(865) 584-0550