Notre Dame, University of Virginia Among Winners in Business School Rankings

notredame Mendoza College of Business at Notre Dame University has scored the number-one position in Bloomberg Businessweek’s rankings of the top undergraduate business schools in the United States.

McIntire School of Commerce (University of Virginia), Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management (Cornell University), Carroll School of Management (Boston College) and Olin School (Washington University – St. Louis).

The Mendoza College of Business features more than 2400 students in graduate, undergraduate and executive studies.

A total of 132 programs were ranked in five different categories. Wharton School (University of Pennsylvania) is the lone entry on both the undergraduate list and the recent MBA rankings. Notre Dame appeared in the top five for employer sentiment and academic quality, and placed first in student assessment. Kelley School of Business (Indiana University) moved into the top ten for the first time at No. 8.

The School of Business at Wake Forest University secured first-place honors in the category of Academic Quality for the second year in a row. This category takes into account such components as student-faculty ratio and average SAT score. Olin School at Washington University – St. Louis kept the top ranking for best percentage of placing undergrads in leading MBA programs.

Tepper School of Business (Carnegie Mellon University) tied with Wharton and McIntire as the educational institutions with the highest starting pay at $70,000 annually. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), undergraduate business owners can expect an average starting salary of $55,144.

A major reason for the between MBA and undergraduate top tens is that many institutions such as Harvard University and University of Chicago do not provide undergraduate business programs. With the increased demand for undergraduate business education, Stanford University and other schools are creating certificate programs. In order to attract students from across the country, many private colleges with leading MBA programs have begun to offer courses for younger students.

Weathershield Reviews How New Windows Save Money

Weathershield Reviews

According to Weathershield, reviews of window products over the last 20 years reveal significant advancements in energy efficiency. Today, we speak with the experts of the Weathershield Reviews Team to find out what all the hype is about and if replacement windows are a sound investment.

ZRYLW: We hear a lot on the news about energy-efficient windows so we’re glad you could join us today.

Weathershield Reviews Team: We appreciate the invitation.

ZRYLW: Let’s get started, shall we? Do replacement windows actually save money or is it just a bunch of media hype to increase sales?

Weathershield Reviews Team: Unfortunately, a lot of ads are misleading. However, new windows can save money if they’re replacing older windows and are installed properly.

ZRYLW: So we should not believe everything we see on the commercials?

Weathershield Reviews Team: Absolutely not. As with all industries, some window manufacturers resort to puffing up their money-saving claims in order to sell more.

ZRYLW: But they can save money?

Weathershield Reviews Team: Yes and, in some cases, it can be significant. It depends on what they are replacing and how well they are installed.

ZRYLW: Are new windows different from those manufactured a decade or more ago?

Weathershield Reviews Team: Historically, windows have been one single pane of glass with either wood or aluminum as the frame.

ZRYLW: Both of those materials are still in use now though, correct?

Weathershield Reviews Team: Yes, but now we understand that a home loses much of its heat through its windows. New technology has provided a way to make those two materials energy efficient.

ZRYLW: How so?

Weathershield Reviews Team: Where to begin…? The introduction of dual and triple insulated glass filled with inert gasses, weather-stripping, low-e glass coatings, UV protection…

ZRYLW: Let’s break down each of these, starting with the multi panes.

Weathershield Reviews Team: Windows nowadays are usually made with at least two panes of glass. This helps stop thermal transfer by adding an extra layer of protection from the outside temperature.

ZRYLW: And weather-stripping?

Weathershield Reviews Team: Weather-stripping is a piece of material around the perimeter edges of a window sash that stops air and water leaks.

ZRYLW: What exactly is UV protection?

Weathershield Reviews Team: Enhancements to window glazing to reduce the amount of damaging UV rays into a home.  UV rays can damage carpets, furniture and even cause skin cancer.

ZRYLW: What is the best type of glass for improved energy performance?

Weathershield Reviews Team: We like to think it’s our Zo-e-shield glass system, which is available with five levels of protection.

ZRYLW: Does the Weathershield Zo-e-shield system offer year round cost savings?

Weathershield Reviews Team: Yes, when installed properly and replacing an older or less efficient system. Of course, if you are replacing windows, chances are they are original to the home and either aged or a contractor-grade window with few upgrades.

ZRYLW: Can you give us a brief summary of the benefits of new windows?

Weathershield Reviews Team: New windows give the entire a home a fresh new look and can help save money by reducing the home’s energy usage, overall. Also, new windows may have added safety features – like child locks – that older windows don’t.

ZRYLW: Do you think new windows are a good addition when putting a home on the market?

Weathershield Reviews Team: Yes, of course. Especially for homes that have never had new windows installed.

ZRYLW: Thank you for taking the time to chat with us today, but it looks like we are out of time.

Weathershield Reviews Team: It’s been a pleasure and hopefully, all of your questions have been answered.

In 1955, when Weathershield was founded in Medford, Wisconsin, Mr. Schield had no idea that what he started would span five decades and two generations. Today, Weathershield reviews the energy-saving needs of consumers across the country to determine the best, most cost-effective options for new and replacement windows. The company has earned the respect of builders and architects worldwide.

Visit weathershield.com for more information.

 

 

Amazon Emerges as Major Competitor to YouTube, Hulu with New Preroll Ads

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These days, media giants such as AOL, Yahoo, Hulu and YouTube have some heavy competition in their midst.

Amazon has started placing preroll ads within original series pilots that are available for streaming on Amazon Prime Instant. The company is currently collaborating with several advertisers on future video campaigns.

Amazon users can share which TV pilots they wish to see promoted to series as distributed on Prime Instant Video. Geico is slotted as the presenting sponsor for the

company’s “pilot season.” As a portion of the agreement, Geico will have 15-second TV spots streaming prior to episodes, as well as banners on landing pages.

Only series pilots are available for free to Amazon users. A subscription fee is required to access further episodes.

Amazon’s most significant efforts in the field of video advertising began late in 2013. Consumers who viewed the first few episodes of particular television shows through the Kindle Fire were shown a variety of video advertisements. In order to bolster their activity, Amazon has collaborated with major TV networks to offer advertisements during many of their shows.

Last month, Amazon shared details about a new deal with FreeWheel, a video ad-tech company. The company will now begin playing commercials before how-to videos and movie trailers on the site. According to industry insiders, the partnership is intended to draw the company closer to providing more videos for advertisers over the next 12 to 24 months.

The online video market has proven to be a valuable one for many retailers. The national research organization eMarketer estimates that U.S. businesses will devote $5.75 billion on video advertisements in 2014. At this time, YouTube holds about 20 percent of this burgeoning market. Based on their latest endeavors into video marketing, Amazon hopes to take a big chunk out of the number in the near future.

 

 

Travel Experts Share Favorite Global Hotspots for 2014

travel The International Business Times recently assembled 20 lists from English-language travel magazines, guidebooks and news organizations to determine what locations travel experts are recommending in 2014.

The top five countries, in order, are: Brazil, Scotland, Myanmar, Iceland and Panama.
The top five cities, in order: Riga, Latvia; Glasgow, Scotland; Cape Town, South Africa; and Chengdu, China.

The Americas

The usual suspects like Nashville, Charleston and Austin strutted their stuff once again, but a few surprise entries shook up this year’s list. Major U.S. cities such as Detroit and Chicago appeared on numerous lists. Colorado’s new marijuana laws have increased intrigue in the mountainous states. The warm and sunny environments in Orlando, Palm Springs, Miami and Honolulu have proved quite popular.

The World Cup is bound to draw visitors from across the globe in 2014.

Uruguay rated first on several lists due to its proximity to Brazil, as well as its recent move to allow same-sex marriage and legalize marijuana. The Panama Canal celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2014, ensuring an influx of visitors throughout the year.

Europe

In 2014, Scotland hosts the Commonwealth Games along with other international events. Glasgow in particular received high marks on the survey. War anniversaries place Sarajevo, Belgium and Berlin on many lists, while Iceland continues to be consistent performers. However, 2014 Winter Olympics host Sochi, Russia, received only scattered mentions.

Africa

The death of Nelson Mandela has inspired renewed interest in South Africa, particularly Cape Town. U.N. World Tourism Organization co-hosts Zimbabwe and Zambia stormed up the rankings, while Uganda, Rwanda and Kenya experienced small jumps.

Asia-Pacific

China and Myanmar were the formidable twosome at the top of many tallies. After securing rights to the 2020 Summer Olympics, Tokyo experienced an uptick. Taiwan, Indonesia, New Zealand and Bhutan also earned multiple plaudits.

Join a Sports League to Enhance a Fitness Routine

ZRYLW - Sports league Joining a sports league is the best way to start or maintain a fitness routine. Playing an organized sport can benefit your physical, mental and emotional health.

Where to start

Gather a bunch of people together, form a team, and join a sports league. You can even join by yourself and get assigned to a team. It may seem intimidating at first, but you will probably end up with some new friends in no time.

Sports leagues are not free, in fact, they can be quite expensive. Luckily for a team, the cost can be split among many people. Another alternative is to find a sponsor. Many small businesses will gladly sponsor teams, especially if the team wears shirts with the business logo or name on it, or otherwise supports the business. If money is tight and you cannot afford

to join a sports league, start your own. Gather some friends together and agree to meet once a week for some fun and workout.

Physical benefits

In addition to the benefits of physical exercise you get during the game, the adrenaline rushes will make you feel good and want to exercise more often. This will have a snowball effect, and you will feel better and better and want to exercise even more.

Mental benefits

Focusing your mental powers on something completely different from your daily routine is a fantastic way to relax. This will help you better tackle whatever your daily grind requires, improving your overall well-being and the efficiency needed at work or school.

Emotional benefits

Hanging out with friends a few hours a week can do wonders for your emotional health. Getting together with people who share the same interests makes us feel more connected.

YOR Health Shares the Building Blocks of a Perfect Exercise Plan

YOR Health As a leading name in the global nutrition industry, YOR Health has paid close attention to how exercise benefits their customers. YOR Health knows that regular physical activity will boost metabolism and improve the body’s natural strength. Here, the staff of YOR Health shares valuable techniques for developing a new exercise program that will stand the test of time.

Zrylw: Hello and welcome to the staff of YOR Health. We appreciate your time this afternoon.

YOR Health: You are certainly welcome. It’s the mission of YOR Health to tell people how they can blend diet and exercise into an unbeatable combination.

Zrylw: What approach should people take towards regular exercise?

YOR Health: In a sense, exercise should be treated with the same respect as a second job.

Zrylw: Really… How so?
 
YOR Health: If an employee is not willing to show up on a regular basis, he or she can expect the results to be less than satisfactory. With a lack of physical activity, there’s more potential for dangerous health afflictions in the future.

Zrylw: Is it possible to avoid boredom and fatigue after a few weeks of a workout routine?
 
YOR Health: Sure! The key is to mix it up. One day, go swimming. The next day can be devoted to dancing or playing racquetball. Different kinds of exercise will move a variety of muscles and increase body strength.

Zrylw: Are there specific types of exercise that are necessary for all people to engage in?
 
YOR Health: A proper workout program must include strength training as well as endurance training. Flexibility and balance exercises are also vital. Don’t stick with the same method every time.

Zrylw: What’s a common error for those exercising for the first time in a while?

 
YOR Health: If you’re not regularly engaging in physical activity, you should avoid overexertion at the very beginning stages. It can lead to injury and illness if you’re not careful.

Zrylw: How should people plan their schedules?
 
YOR Health: Give your body time to adapt to more activity, and don’t forget to set aside one day a week for rest.

Zrylw: Which methods have you found to be most effective for a safe and satisfying workout?
 
YOR Health: Before completing any vigorous activity, spend some time walking, stretching or doing yoga. It will help to reduce the occurrence of injury while increasing flexibility. Preparing the body before any form of exercise is crucial for both the muscular and cardiovascular systems.
 
Zrylw: Is there one area of the body that needs extra attention while exercising?
 
YOR Health: Try to concentrate on the core first. The back and abdominals are a central part of total fitness.

Zrylw: What’s the last step of an exercise routine?
 
YOR Health: Cooling down after a tough workout will allow the heart rate to decrease steadily and give muscles a chance to relax. You must learn to treat your body well if you expect to see great results.

Zrylw: That sounds about right. On that note, thank you for these terrific tips!

YOR Health: Anytime!

YOR Health is an American company with members located throughout the world, including Australia and Europe. The meal replacements and nutritional supplements of YOR Health are designed to help busy people lead better lives.

 

Sandra Dyche Kim: Facts About the City of Jacksonville

Sandra Dyche Kim

Sandra Dyche Kim works with people across the globe to assist in partnerships between immigrant investors and businesses. In her travels, Sandra Dyche Kim has come across several places that stand out. A New York City resident, Sandra Dyche Kim is impressed with the state of Florida and, specifically, the city of Jacksonville. She explained the many benefits of Jacksonville, Fla., to ZRYLW in a recent interview.

ZRYLW: What’s so special about Jacksonville?

Sandra Dyche Kim: It’s a city that has a little bit of everything—sports, culture, business and a large population to support it all.

ZRYLW: How big is Jacksonville’s population?

Sandra Dyche Kim: The numbers are close to 900,000. There are several Fortune 500 companies in the city, providing plenty of job opportunities. The major industries are medicine, finance and military.

ZRYLW: Military?

Sandra Dyche Kim: Jacksonville is home to the Cecil Airport, a joint civil-military airport and spaceport. The airport takes care of military aircraft, among other types of aircraft. Formerly, the airport was the Naval Air Station Cecil Field, which was a military naval base during the ’40s and ’50s. It was disestablished after World War II, and then later reestablished. Continue reading Sandra Dyche Kim: Facts About the City of Jacksonville

Interview with Charles C. Brennan: The Rock & Roll Academy’s First Concert

Charles C. Brennan

Charles C. Brennan, founder of the Brennan Rock & Roll Academy, recently hosted the Academy’s first concert designed to showcase the talents of attendees. When Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash showed up, Charles C. Brennan was able to provide students a once-in-a-lifetime experience. An important part of the community, Charles C. Brennan says the Academy is able to provide underserved children an outlet for their creative talents. By being able to perform alongside a legendary guitarist, Las Vegas resident Charles C. Brennan found the children were further motivated to pursue their aspirations.

Charles C. Brennan spoke with the staff of Zrylw about the concert, as well as Slash’s impression of the work the Rock & Roll Academy is doing.

Zrylw: Talk to us a little about how this came about. How did you meet Slash?

Charles C. Brennan: I was introduced to Slash at Rockfest in Wisconsin, when he opened for KISS. We struck up a conversation about the Academy and he was intrigued.

Zrylw: This was actually his second visit to the Academy, correct?

Charles C. Brennan: Slash came by during the KISS dedication ceremony, when we dedicated four rehearsal rooms to the rock band. He was impressed by the work we’re doing and wanted to find a way to show his support.

Zrylw: What, in particular, impressed him?

Charles C. Brennan: He noted that we are the first free service that allows members of the Boys and Girls Clubs to learn music. And by being in attendance, he was actually the first celebrity musician to see the kids publicly showcase their talents.

Zrylw: He also performed with some of the kids, from what I understand. How did that come about?

Charles C. Brennan: One of the bands chose “Knocking on Heaven’s Door,” a Guns N’ Roses song, to perform. When Slash heard about that, he decided to get up on stage and perform it with them. It was an amazing experience for those young musicians, to be able to play with a true professional in front of their peers.

Zrylw: Slash made a statement about the importance of volunteers, too, while he was there…

Charles C. Brennan: Yes, he spoke on the importance of getting children involved and also spoke to the music community at large about the importance of volunteering to help these young aspiring musicians. Working with someone who has a true talent can make a big difference in these kids’ lives.

Zrylw: Who would have expected Slash has such a soft spot for kids…

Charles C. Brennan: He emphasized that he’s a father himself and because of that, he realizes how crucial it is to provide a great foundation to children in order to steer them in the right direction in life.

Zrylw: Can we expect more concerts from the students at the Brennan Rock & Roll Academy?

Charles C. Brennan: You can count on it! I’ve made a 20-year commitment to both the program and the facility, so we’re in this for the long haul.

Zrylw: What motivated you to start the Academy?

Charles C. Brennan: I was inspired by the work Alice Cooper has done with his own program geared toward youth. As a kid, I was a member of the Boys and Girls Club in the Sioux Falls area and I know how much of an influence the program can have on what a child becomes.

Charles C. Brennan lives in Las Vegas, where he founded the Dollar Loan Center franchise. With more than 80 locations in four separate states, Charles C. Brennan has helped the Dollar Loan Center grow into a profitable enterprise that helps consumers with affordable loans.

The Perfect Vacation: Aldo Disorbo on Italian Vineyards

Aldo-Disorbo-Tuscany-Vineyard-Zrylw

There are fewer sights more beautiful than Italy, notes Aldo Disorbo, an Italian-American businessman from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

The Italian countryside is filled with the sweet scent of success, explains Aldo Disorbo. The landscape is dotted with vineyards and wineries, both new and old. According to Aldo Disorbo, Italy has something for even the most ardent wine enthusiast. Here, the founder of Nationwide Relocation Services opens up about his

family’s heritage and shares some of his favorite spots for romance and relaxation.

ZRYLW: Good evening, thank you for taking time out of your schedule to chat with us. Can you tell us a bit about your business for those readers who are unfamiliar with Nationwide Relocation Services?

Aldo Disorbo: Yes, thank you. Nationwide Relocation Services is a moving brokerage firm. We help people and businesses pair up with a mover who has the capabilities the client needs.

ZRYLW: Capabilities? Aren’t all movers the same?

Aldo Disorbo: Many movers cannot handle large items such as pianos or vehicles. Some may not have a truck large enough to manage a cross-country trip.

ZRYLW: So, movers are chosen according to the customer’s personal situation?

Aldo Disorbo: Exactly.

ZRYLW: Getting on track with tonight’s topic. What are some of your favorite places in Italy?

Aldo Disorbo: There are three districts that come to mind: Piedmont, Tuscany, and Sicily.

ZRYLW: And what is so special about these places?

Aldo Disorbo: They are all very well-known for their artisan winemakers.

ZRYLW: What are some of your favorites?

Aldo Disorbo: In the Piedmont area, the Ceretto Aziende Vitivinicole winery offers a great tour. It is a third generation winery and stretches across four villages.

ZRYLW: That sounds like a very large corporation.

Aldo Disorbo: A corporation it’s not. This, like most vineyards in the area, is a family owned endeavor.

ZRYLW: What’s notable about this particular establishment?

Aldo Disorbo: Unlike most traditional winemakers, the Ceretto family tends to lean toward modern art. In fact, visitors may elect a tour that specifically highlights the estate’s art collection.

ZRYLW: Moving on. You mentioned Tuscany?

Aldo Disorbo: This is one of the most historical wine regions in the world.

ZRYLW: Give us a history lesson.

Aldo Disorbo: Let’s look at the Villa Vignamaggio. This 14th century estate has been making wine since at least the early 1400s. This particular establishment covers over a third of Chianti.

ZRYLW: And it is operational today?

Aldo Disorbo: Yes – more so than ever. The estate has a wellness center as well as luxury accommodations.

ZRYLW: You mentioned Sicily earlier…

Aldo Disorbo: One of my favorite places to visit when I’m in Europe is Sicily. As for wineries, Planeta is situated amongst the most beautiful and romantic surroundings in the world.

ZRYLW: Is this a historical site?

Aldo Disorbo: The winery no; the grounds yes.

ZRYLW: Explain, please.

Aldo Disorbo: The on-site winemaking business was not launched until 1995. However, the property is the site of an ancient Arabic castle, which is steeped in antiquity and old-world charm.

ZRYLW: Are all of these locations available to the public?

Aldo Disorbo: Yes, but I’d recommend calling ahead to ensure they are available for tours.

ZRYLW: Great travel tips. Thank you for your time today. We look forward to hearing more about Italy later.

 

Aldo Disorbo has always strongly identified with his heritage. He believes that respecting the past is the best way to prepare for the future. Through Nationwide Relocation Services and his other business endeavors, Aldo Disorbo has found success utilizing his family-instilled values if hard work and integrity.

 

 

Improve Productivity and Mood by Unplugging from Electronics

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The brain is adaptable. Television, computers, cell phones, and more constantly keep the mind working at near overload capacity. The brain can deal in varying degrees with the barrage of information and stimulation thrown at it every day, but it does not operate at its best.

A typical child today spends less than 30 minutes a day playing outside in the fresh air and sunshine. On the other hand, they spend approximately seven hours a day watching TV and playing video games or using cellphones and computers.

Adults spend even more time than children enmeshed in the electronic world. Emails, Twitter blasts, text messages, and Facebook updates constantly assault their

eyes and ears—the list is endless and growing. Modern media constantly vies for attention and the more it receives, the more it demands. Some have likened it to a technology addiction. When they unplug from all electronics, many people experience symptoms of withdrawal.

There is another thing that happened to people when they unplugged. Their creativity increased by approximately 50 percent. They became less distracted and more productive. They grew more contemplative, less aggressive and more social. Their mood improved and their interaction with others was more positive.

It is unrealistic to believe the bulk of humanity can totally cut off technology. There are only so many vacation days in which to enjoy freedom from the demands of a plugged-in society. However, it is possible to cut down the time spent interacting with electronics and add it to the time spent connecting with humans.

It is possible to limit a child’s screen time and engage them in creative or physical activities, but to do that parents also need to become more involved in the external world. It is difficult to carve out the time, but those who have done it have found it is well worth the effort.

No one has yet proclaimed from their deathbed that they wish they had spent more time on their computer and less time with family and friends.