Firehouse Subs, Qdoba Among America’s Favorite Restaurants in Terms of Dining Satisfaction

Sub-Sandwiches According to a recent study, Firehouse Subs scores high marks among American consumers.

Market Force Information surveyed 6,100 consumers for a research study that examined the leading restaurants in four major food categories: chicken, sandwiches, Mexican and pizza. Participants were asked to share their satisfaction rates of recent dining experiences, as well as the likelihood of their referrals to friends and family members.

The results were compiled and the researchers calculated a Composite Loyalty Score that expressed the overall satisfaction for today’s consumers. In the category for sandwiches, Firehouse Subs scored the highest loyalty score (68 percent), trumping Panera Bread (62 percent). Jimmy John’s finished in third place at 54 percent.

Qdoba Mexican Grill won the Mexican category and Papa Murphy’s finished first in the pizza category. Qdoba surpassed Chipotle Mexican Grill, 65 percent to 63 percent. The leaders were followed by Moe’s Southwest Grill, Del Taco, Taco John’s and Taco Bell. Papa Murphy’s stood tall followed by Pizza Ranch, Papa John’s, CiCi’s, Domino’s, Pizza Hut, Little Caesar’s and Sbarro.

Respondents ranked their satisfaction on seven attributes: fast service, value, healthy food, quality food, friendly service, atmosphere and accommodating children.

Firehouse Subs has recently introduced a number of menu changes, including the addition of low-fat menu items under 500 calories. Co-founders Robin Sorensen and Chris Sorensen have also created lighter takes on old favorites such as the Hook and Ladder Light. Capitalizing on the latest food trends, the Sriracha Beef is another new feature.

The authors of the study reported that Firehouse Subs emerged at the top of the list due to its impressive line of specialty hot sandwiches, as well as its support of public safety causes and organizations. Firehouse owns and operates over 750 restaurants throughout the U.S. and Puerto Rico.

GE Pro Elite Team Offers Insight into Emerging Contaminants in Water

In this interview with ZRYLW, the GE Pro Elite team warns U.S. residents about the presence of emerging contaminants in their water supply. A customer service representative with the GE Pro Elite team explains why emerging contaminants may be hazardous to the health of people and the environment as a whole.

ZRYLW: Hello and welcome!

GE Pro Elite Team: Good morning, and thank you for having me. It’s such a great opportunity to be here and share with your readership.

ZRYLW: To describe in further detail, which contaminants are typically considered to be in the category of “emerging contaminants”?

GE Pro Elite Team: Some of the most common contaminants in this day and age include personal care products and pharmaceuticals, as well as endocrine disrupting compounds.

ZRYLW: What other items may be of concern?

GE Pro Elite: Fragrances, cosmetics and soaps may also be present in the water supply.

ZRYLW: Why are these particular contaminants a major problem in today’s world?

GE Pro Elite Team: In many cases, they are undetectable.

ZRYLW: Who is providing regulatory oversight of these issues?

GE Pro Elite Team: The Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA, is working diligently to improve its comprehension of a number of different contaminants.

ZRYLW: Can  you give me some examples?

GE Pro Elite Team: Absolutely! These targeted contaminants include EDCs, PCPs, pharmaceuticals and perchlorate.

ZRYLW: Are there any other organizations taking up this cause?

GE Pro Elite Team: Actually, yes! A number of advocacy agencies and government groups have conducted research studies and surveys that examine the water supply in many communities and determine if contaminants are present.

ZRYLW: Should I be concerned?

GE Pro Elite Team: With major advances in health research and testing, professional experts are learning a great deal about drinking water and its potential dangers.

ZRYLW: How can I know for certain if contaminants are present in my water supply?

GE Pro Elite Team: It requires the help of professionals to determine what issues may have arisen. That’s why we designed the GE Pro Elite.

ZRYLW: Is there a way for homeowners to prevent contaminants in their homes?

GE Pro Elite Team: In order to feel confident and relaxed about the level of protection in their homes, people should consider the GE Pro Elite as a certified and tested system that overcomes any emerging threats.

ZRYLW: Can people take care of these potentially harmful substances all by themselves?

GE Pro Elite Team: At this time, home testing is not available. Only local professionals and state laboratories have the ability to examine and define these contaminants.

ZRYLW: We’re glad to have you present this information.

GE Pro Elite Team: You’re welcome. Enjoy your day!

By contacting the GE Pro Elite team today, consumers are ensuring that their loved ones are safe and protected from the hazardous materials that may be present in their drinking water. The GE Pro Elite team is eager to educate communities about their water treatment system and its extensive list of benefits.

US Coal Imports Surge in 2014

US coal mining companies have recently seen a major decrease in production; Colombian coal cheaper, high quality.

Coal imports to North America, and specifically the United States, have risen dramatically even as Central Appalachia has seen a number of mines close.

The reason: price. Costs to transport coal from Central Appalachia is 173% more expensive than to import

from Colombia – a country where coal is cheap to acquire and can be shipped in higher quantities.  Research firm IHS Energy calculates that the average load of coal from the US costs $26 per ton to ship while Colombian coal averages just $15/ton. Lower labor costs also contribute to the disparity in price. Colombian coal is, on average, $4 cheaper per ton than US product.

China, the largest coal importer in the world, has seen a weaker demand in coal use this year. Europe’s declining imports have also added to the depressed coal prices.

The first six months of 2014 saw a surge of coal imports. The US bought more than 5.4 metric tons between January and June which is a 44% increase from the same period in 2013. Only one-third of this was purchased domestically. Colombian coal companies ramped up production by 24% to meet the increased demand.

The US Energy Information Administration predicts that US coal consumption will rise to 862 tons by the end of the year. The expected increase is directly related to a frigid start to the year when power companies used more coal to produce electricity than expected.

Birmingham, Alabama-based Drummond Co. anticipates that its two Colombian mines will produce nearly 30 tons of coal this year. The company refused to comment on the fundamental cause of the ramped up production but said that reflected a 19% production increase.

US coal producers are working toward creating competitive pricing as the year progresses. Rail company CSX has announced plans to increase its fleet to over 4,700 locomotives by year’s end and Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corp. will add 5,000 new cars.

 

Interview with Berni Fried – The Wide Range of Drug Treatment Options

Addiction is a devastating disease that affects the behavior and function of the human brain, according to therapist Berni Fried. In her professional experience, Berni Fried has found that individuals who abuse alcohol or drugs consistently are at risk for relapse. In a recent conversation with the staff at ZRYLW, Berni Fried discusses treatment procedures and their success rates.

ZRYLW: Thank you for taking a few moments to talk this morning.

Berni Fried: It’s wonderful to be here and I appreciate you for having me.
ZRYLW: In your professional career, what have you observed about the drug treatment as a whole?

Berni Fried: Above all else, treatment must be available to anyone who needs it.

ZRYLW: Why is this so important?

Berni Fried: Drug-addicted people often have a sense of discomfort about submitting to a treatment program.

ZRYLW: That seems reasonable…

Berni Fried: When you are talking about drug and alcohol abuse, treatment at an early stage increases the potential for positive outcomes.

ZRYLW: What issues should be addressed during these first treatment sessions?

Berni Fried: Effective treatment addresses a number of medical, legal, psychological, physiological, vocational and social problems.

ZRYLW: Do these treatment sessions change depending on the client?

Berni Fried: Yes, it’s necessary to tailor the specific treatment to account for the client’s ethnicity, gender, culture and age.

ZRYLW: What treatment components are required?

Berni Fried: A patient may need family therapy, medical services, parent instruction, rehabilitation, legal services, social services and medication, among other forms of treatment.

ZRYLW: How long do these recovery efforts usually take?

Berni Fried: For a majority of clients, a consistent approach is critical to meeting their needs.

ZRYLW: What other aspects of the client’s profile must be analyzed?

Berni Fried: Many drug-addicted individuals are struggling with mental disorders as well. This is referred to by mental health professionals as a “dual diagnosis.”

ZRYLW: How should the therapist approach treatment for clients with a dual diagnosis?

Berni Fried: It used to be thought that the alcohol or chemical addiction must be addressed before treating the mental health issue. But professional opinions have changed on that matter. Now, most agree that when a mental health disorder and addiction is diagnosed at the same time, they should be addressed in tandem.

ZRYLW: What elements may be introduced to assist these efforts?

Berni Fried: Incentive strategies and motivational enhancement can help to improve treatment engagement.

ZRYLW: Some examples might be….

Berni Fried: Enticements or sanctions from friends and family members have been shown to increase retention rates, treatment entry and the success of a drug treatment program.

ZRYLW: It all boils down to constant surveillance, though.

Berni Fried: In treatment, drug use needs to be monitored at all times.

ZRYLW: Why?

Berni Fried: Lapses are a regular occurrence – even in treatment, believe it or not.

ZRYLW: How does treatment assist in this process?

Berni Fried: For clients, knowing that their activity is monitored may help them to curb the desire to abuse drugs.

ZRYLW: Thank you for your continued support of this community.

Berni Fried: It’s truly an honor to serve in this role and I appreciate our community partners for their efforts.

Berni Fried is currently working on her next project, a treatment center based in the L.A. area that offers a unique source of inspiration, knowledge and comfort for recovering addicts.

Sophia Wong of YOR Health Urges Consumers to Monitor Nutritional Intake

Sophia Wong YOR Health

Sophia Wong of YOR Health notes that a polluted environment causes tremendous strain on the human body. Along with poor diet and irregular exercise habits, consumers of all ages are struggling to stay healthy. Here, Sophia Wong of YOR Health tells ZRYLW how some of the world’s most troubling issues affect health and wellness.

ZRYLW: Hello again!

Sophia Wong, YOR Health: Hi – it’s been a while, hasn’t it?

ZRYLW: It has. We’re here to talk today about how your company is changing the face of the nutrition industry.

Sophia Wong, YOR Health: Yes- we are very passionate about this topic. So many people around the world are feeling tired and stressed from the daily pressures in their lives.

ZRYLW: How has your company become such a major advocate for today’s consumer?

Sophia Wong, YOR Health: Our supportive atmosphere is second to none.

ZRYLW: What issues are of greatest concern for your company these days?

Sophia Wong, YOR Health: Over the past century, our world has experienced a 72 percent loss of minerals in soil.

ZRYLW: What other factors contribute to ongoing health problems for our world?

Sophia Wong, YOR Health: In 1900, the world’s population was just over 1.6 billion. Now, it’s over 7 billion.

ZRYLW: Can food manufacturers keep up the pace?

Sophia Wong, YOR Health: It’s a nearly impossible task.

ZRYLW: Which components of their operations have been adjusted to meet modern standards?

Sophia Wong, YOR Health: Quality is often compromised in favor of convenience.

ZRYLW: How do these new trends affect current production standards?

Sophia Wong, YOR Health: Well, in a way there is a simple answer: Mineral-deficient foods are the result of mineral-deficient soil.

ZRYLW: What are your Customers saying about their current lifestyles?

Sophia Wong, YOR Health: Many of our Customers have complained about general tiredness and lack of energy.

ZRYLW: Why do you belive they are they so fatigued?

Sophia Wong, YOR Health: Today’s consumers are, for the most part, malnourished or poorly nourished.

ZRYLW: What are the consequences of this problem?

Sophia Wong, YOR Health: Depriving the human body of nutrients, vitamins and minerals creates a great deal of physical and psychological stress.

ZRYLW: How so…?

Sophia Wong, YOR Health: The body’s organs are depleted and unable to work at their normal function.

ZRYLW: So in what ways does the body compensate?

Sophia Wong, YOR Health: The body produces adrenaline and cortisol – stress hormones – to cope with the burden.

ZRYLW: That’s quite remarkable….I was not aware.

Sophia Wong, YOR Health: With all the emotional, physical, environmental and mental stressors in our world, it’s necessary to have good nutrition at all times. Our company allows people to do just that.

ZRYLW: This has been incredibly beneficial for our readers – and myself as well. Thank you!

Sophia Wong, YOR Health: You’re quite welcome!

Sophia Wong and YOR Health maintain focus and commitment at all stages of the development process in order to ensure the quality of the company’s products.

C. Frederick Wehba Examines America’s Tradition of Charitable Giving

C. Frederick Wehba

Businessman and community service leader C. Frederick Wehba understands the challenges for charities and philanthropic organizations relying on the donations of the American public. With the U.S. economy in a holding pattern, C. Frederick Wehba has witnessed a hesitance on the part of many people to make donations, for fear of compromising their own personal financial situations. Here, C. Frederick Wehba shares about his own experiences with assisting the community.

ZRYLW: It’s so nice to talk with you once again, Mr. Wehba.

C. Frederick Wehba: I’m grateful to be here and share my story.

ZRYLW: As an active member of your community, how do you see the future of philanthropy?

C. Frederick Wehba: As the U.S. economy shows signs of improvement, the hope is that Americans will experience an increased desire to give to charities.

ZRYLW: What are the most prevalent reasons why citizens are deciding not to donate to charities right now?

C. Frederick Wehba: Due to the unemployment rate and resulting financial hardships, it’s only natural that charitable donations would shrink.

ZRYLW: How much do Americans donate to charity?

C. Frederick Wehba: In each of the last few years, the total exceeded $214 billion.

ZRYLW: From where were these statistics drawn?

C. Frederick Wehba: Tax records of the Internal Revenue Service are used to formulate the data.

ZRYLW: Are these tax records public knowledge?

C. Frederick Wehba: The IRS offers general information to the public each year that describes how much money has been given to charity.

ZRYLW: Is the financial information of individual households protected?

C. Frederick Wehba: Yes, absolutely. The data concerning individuals or families is protected for the safety of all Americans.

ZRYLW: From your perspective, what is the common thread among people who do choose to be philanthropic?

C. Frederick Wehba: Whether or not they feel personally connected to a specific organization or cause, they find tremendous benefits in giving donations.

ZRYLW: Why do you feel that citizens are more likely to give back to the community?

C. Frederick Wehba: Donating time and money often makes people feel a greater sense of purpose.

ZRYLW: What about yourself? Is there a particular reason for your own community service?

C. Frederick Wehba: It’s fair to say that I’m primarily guided by my religious beliefs.

ZRYLW: In summary, how can U.S. charities get back on the right track?

C. Frederick Wehba: It’s time to reframe the conversation and get to the heart of what truly matters.

ZRYLW: And that is…?

C. Frederick Wehba: For the generations of tomorrow, our efforts today are going to make a considerable difference in their well being. It’s important to keep our children’s and grandchildren’s futures in mind.

ZRYLW: Thanks for joining us today, and being such an inspiration!

C. Frederick Wehba: All credit goes to my family members and friends, who have encouraged me with every step. But you are certainly welcome, and thank you for having me.

Whether he’s supporting the Boy Scouts of America or one of his community’s local churches, C. Frederick Wehba is always eager to be involved in local development initiatives. C. Frederick Wehba believes that volunteerism has defined the United States and given rise to some of the greatest achievements in our society.

 

New Study Reveals Americans’ Attitudes about Personal Data Usage by Major Companies

The personal data gathering techniques of Facebook, Google and other international organizations has deepened the fear of many Americans who are worried about privacy issues, according to a new poll conducted by Reuters.

Facebook and Google ranked at the top of Americans’ list when expressing concerns about the ability to monitor personal communications and spending habits and track physical locations, according to a new Reuters poll.

The survey displays the public’s ambivalence towards companies whose online services – search, e-commerce and social networking – have grown into one of the world’s most powerful businesses.

As the line between real world services and web products has blurred, many Internet companies are working to carve a niche in a variety of industries, from automobiles to home appliances. Amazon, Facebook, Google and others have been busy acquiring a wide range of companies and developing technology projects. Google in particular has developed into one of the most ambitious companies, investing in drones, robots, augmented-reality glasses and self-driving cars.

Among the 4,781 respondents, a little more than half (51 percent) said that three companies – Twitter, Microsoft and Apple – were playing too much of a role in people’s lives.

Approximately one-third of respondents said they were unaware of Google’s plans to move into the arena of real-world products like appliances, cars and phones. Meanwhile, more than two-thirds of respondents were worried about how these companies would store their data or collect personal information. New wearable devices such as smartwatches and fitness bracelets have allowed many companies to gather biological data.

Only 13 percent of survey respondents expressed negative feelings about online home appliance companies. On the other hand, 42 percent said they were concerned about drones (29 percent robots).

University of Washington law professor Ryan Calo, who recently published a paper about the social and legal implications of robotics, indicates that the recent revelations of NSA surveillance as related to the Edward Snowden scandal have heightened public sensitivity about data security.

Tax Refunds Means More Spending, Saving, and Doing for Americans

From vacation to education, American taxpayers have more options than ever before to allocate their incoming funds.

Every year thousands of businesses advertise special post-tax season sales in an effort to garner a portion of America’s big payday. The most popular promotions across the board are the Tax Day freebies. While it may seem counterproductive to give things away, businesses known that if they can associate their name with something positive in times of stress – such as tax day – consumers are more likely to patronize them all year long.

Some of the most popular tax day giveaways include a free 15 min. HydroMassage (available at Planet Fitness), free shredding service from Office Depot, and even a complimentary dinner at Hard Rock Café.

Other businesses opt to slash prices on large purchases to convince buyers to take the plunge. Many auto dealerships across the nation offer vehicles at or near cost, appliance and electronics retailers boldly display their goods with low down payments, and vacation destinations will gladly check people in for up to half price – as long as they’re willing to prepay.

But, not all refund holders will splurge. According to bankrate.com, the average tax refund is over $2500. The site suggests that savings will also be hot in 2014. Families have numerous options to put their money to good use aside from traditional retirement accounts.

A large tax refund may offer the opportunity to create an emergency reserve for expenses such as food, utilities, and mortgage. Additionally, consumers can save thousands of dollars over the course of a credit card repayment cycle by paying down their balance. Those looking to build further into the future typically elect to invest in their careers by spending money on continuing education programs. Other ways to save in the long run include paying for a home energy audit or tackling energy-consuming maintenance projects.

 

 

James Cullem Discusses the Role of Patent Attorneys in Biotech Companies

James Cullem A life science entrepreneur, executive, and registered patent attorney, James Cullem often fields questions about patent attorneys and the implementation of their services in today’s biotech companies.

ZRYLW: Good morning and welcome – how are you?

James Cullem: Doing great. I’m happy to be here!

ZRYLW: Jumping right in, and to simplify matters for

our readers, what exactly do patent attorneys general focus on and accomplish?

James Cullem: Patents are a fundamental, competitive building block for most technology-focused companies, as they provide commercial exclusivity on claimed inventions for a substantial period of time. They are a legal right and document, and as such, patent attorneys (who are specialists) are focused on preparing and filing patent applications, arguing for their issuance/grant, and maintaining and leveraging them post-issuance/grant.

ZRYLW: What are the requirements for being credentialed as a patent attorney?

James Cullem: Like all attorneys here in the U.S., patent attorneys must first hold a Juris Doctorate (JD) degree from an accredited law school, and then sit for and pass the Bar exam in at least one state in ordered to be licensed to practice law.  On top of that, in order to be credentialed as a Registered Patent Attorney who is recognized before the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office, the attorney must have technical training, education, and expertise in their desired area of technology focus (e.g. biochemistry, chemistry, mechanical engineering, etc.) in order to sit for and pass the difficult and specialized Patent Bar Exam.

ZRYLW: How does the Patent Bar compare to other tests?

James Cullem: It is widely regarded in the legal community as one of the most difficult examinations. As a result, the number of U.S. patent attorneys is quite miniscule when judged against other disciplines of law.

ZRYLW: When a company begins to seek the services of a patent attorney, how does management take that first step?

James Cullem: It’s increasingly important for businesses and corporations to be aware of the different characteristics that make a great patent attorney. In the early stages, it’s advisable to check with the U.S. Patent Office to confirm an attorney’s Registration and qualifications.  Management must consider the patent attorney’s area of technical focus and expertise to ensure it matches the company’s product development and R&D focuses.  If the attorney’s background is a suitable fit, he or she could prove to be a valuable resource, provided they have the requisite years of experience. It is always a good idea to ask other patent attorneys in the local community about their experience with the attorney the company is considering hiring. A patent attorney that is not only sharp and well qualified, but is recognized as providing great client service and communication, is the one management should seek.

ZRYLW: What’s a prime example of matching a patent attorney to the company?

James Cullem: A biotechnology company that creates and maintains novel diagnostic tests is best served by a patent attorney that understands biochemistry or molecular biology, as opposed to one that is focused on medical devices or therapeutics.

ZRYLW: Tell us about some of the red flags that might indicate trouble ahead…

James Cullem: A patent attorney who claims to be competent across divergent technology areas may not be the right choice, as it is difficult to stay competent and up-to-speed in more than one or two areas.  For example, be wary of a practitioner that claims to be skilled in medical devices, therapeutics, biologics, research reagents, diagnostic, and more.  Instead, look for a patent attorney that focuses in one specific area, such as genomic and proteomic diagnostic tests.

ZRYLW: How would you summarize the most valuable assets of a patent attorney?

James Cullem: Obtaining and managing patents is complicated work and requires the deft touch of an expert professional who knows the field inside and out.  Still, most Registered Patent Attorneys are highly qualified professionals and the standard of work in this specialist community is high.  It is easy to lose sight of the forest-through-the-trees in diving into this complicated legal work, day in and day out.  The most valuable asset a patent attorney can bring to a company/client is, therefore, the additional ability to see the company’s big picture and work collaboratively with its senior management team, in order to ensure that patent activities are aligning with and serving the overarching corporate vision, mission and objectives.

ZRYLW: In closing, where can company management learn further details about the patent process?

James Cullem: By visiting the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office online at uspto.gov, where it is also possible to search for patents and obtain a full listing of certified attorneys. There are other inventor resources on the Web that explain the patenting process.  And of course, a short conversation with a local Registered Patent Attorney is also helpful.

James Cullem has founded three biotechnology companies, including Paradigm Oncology, is a two-time former Chief Counsel at leading biotechnology companies, and has served as Of Counsel to a number of top patent law firms.

BentleyForbes Shares Virtues of the Boy Scouts of America

BentleyForbes The founder of BentleyForbes has been a champion of the Boy Scouts of America since the company began in 1993. In this interview, he explains why BentleyForbes is heavily involved in the organization’s wealth of opportunities for today’s young men.

Zrylw: Welcome, and thank you for your time this morning.

BentleyForbes: It’s an absolute pleasure to be with you!

Zrylw: Tell us about your involvement with the Boy Scouts of America…

BentleyForbes: The Boy Scouts of America is truly one of the finest youth organizations in the U.S. The Boy Scouts put an emphasis on physical and mental fitness for young men from the ages of 11 to 17.

Zrylw: Why is this mission so critical in today’s society?

BentleyForbes: The American value system remains in a state of flux. With so many social options available to kids today, making the right choice can be incredibly difficult.

Zrylw: How so?

BentleyForbes: The youth of America are subjected to countless unethical corporate and individual acts in the media, not to mention their schools and communities.

Zrylw: Where do the Scouts come into play?

BentleyForbes: According to various studies, Scouts are generally more satisfied with their professional and personal lives. The value of these relationships cannot be underestimated.

Zrylw: What specific traits do you find are most notable among Scouts?

BentleyForbes: Scouts have excelled in leadership roles as a result of the self-confidence and strength that they have drawn from their experiences.

Zrylw: What experiences, for example?

BentleyForbes: Being of service to others is a responsibility that should not be taken lightly. By learning how to respect other people and their property, Scouts gain invaluable life skills.

Zrylw: Such as…?

BentleyForbes: Especially in today’s society, it’s important to feel pride about America and all of its abundant opportunities. Taking care of the environment is one of the chief lessons learned by Scouts.

Zrylw: That’s a noble goal!

BentleyForbes: Indeed. These ethical standards establish a strong and unyielding foundation that serves young men for the rest of their lives.

Zrylw: What is the long-term impact of their involvement?

BentleyForbes: The opportunities granted by the Boy Scouts of America carry forth into the rest of their lives. Because of their association with the Scouts, young men improve their interpersonal relationships.

Zrylw: How can adults help out the cause?

BentleyForbes: As part of volunteering, adults can work directly with youth to develop and sustain a brighter future for the United States.

Zrylw: Is a certain level of experience necessary to volunteer?

BentleyForbes: Scouting volunteers come from a wide range of experiences and backgrounds. People and businesses from nearly every industry are involved in helping youth become competent, caring and responsible citizens.

Zrylw: What can adults learn from these endeavors?

BentleyForbes: Scout volunteering allows people to learn a variety of new skills and create lasting friendships within the community.

Zrylw: Where can adults find out more information about volunteering?

BentleyForbes: On the Scouts website, simply type in a zip code to find the nearest council.

Zrylw: Tremendous! Thanks for sharing!

BentleyForbes: You’re quite welcome.

Commercial real estate company BentleyForbes is one of the leaders in its industry, with current holdings in Dallas, Houston, Chicago and a number of major markets throughout the U.S.