Airline offers service for children travelling alone within Canada

CALGARY, May 22, 2012 /CNW/ – WestJet today announced details of its new unaccompanied minor program. The
program launches following feedback from guests encouraging the airline
to unveil a service that allows children to travel alone.

Starting today, children can travel without a parent or guardian as a
part of WestJet’s unaccompanied minor program. The program is required
for children between the ages of eight and 11 and optional for children
ages 12 to 17. Restrictions apply to a child’s eligibility and full
details can be found at westjet.com/childrenstravelprogram 

“The unaccompanied minor program will help connect families around our
domestic network, help us remain competitive and contribute to our
friendly and caring brand,” said Bob Cummings, WestJet Executive
Vice-President, Sales, Marketing and Guest Experience. “We are excited
to offer this program to the travelling public and look forward to
welcoming these little guests on board in the very near future.”

Under the unaccompanied minor program, a fee of $100 per child, per
flight, will be added to the fare paid. For this fee, the child will
remain in the care of WestJetters from the time they board the aircraft
until they are met by a parent or guardian on arrival. On flights with
live seatback television, unaccompanied minors will receive a set of
regular earbuds. On routes with buy-on-board service, children will
also receive a free sandwich or other buy-on-board items.

WestJet will accept unaccompanied minors on WestJet-operated domestic
flights that are non-stop or flights that do not require a change of
aircraft. This service is not available on connecting flights, flights
operated by code-share or interline partners or on WestJet Vacations
and WestJet Vacations Group bookings.

WestJet’s guardian fare program, which allows a guardian to accompany a child on their flight, will
remain available for booking and can be used for flights that do not
qualify under the unaccompanied minor program.

Guests interested in making an unaccompanied minor booking can do so now
by contacting WestJet’s Sales Super Centre at 1-888-WESTJET.

About WestJet
WestJet is Canada’s preferred airline, offering scheduled service
throughout its 76-city North American and Caribbean network. Inducted
into Canada’s Most Admired Corporate Cultures Hall of Fame and named
one of Canada’s best employers, WestJet pioneered low-cost flying in
Canada. WestJet offers increased legroom and leather seats on its
modern fleet of 98 Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft. With future
confirmed deliveries for an additional 37 aircraft through 2018,
WestJet strives to be one of the five most successful international
airlines in the world.

Connect with WestJet on Facebook at www.facebook.com/westjet
Follow WestJet on Twitter at www.twitter.com/westjet
Subscribe to WestJet on YouTube at www.youtube.com/westjet

SOURCE WestJet

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The Smart Kids Group Division of WMX makes history this week when they release their award winning 26 episode 6 DVD Box Set in both English Spanish for the first time to the public. (www.smartkidsgroup.com)

CAMBRIDGE, Mass., May 23, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — WMX Group, Inc – Smart Kids Group Division (OTCBB: SKGP) announce the DVD release this week of the largest collection of children’s safety shows ever, making history.

The Smart Kids Group Division of WMX makes history this week when they release their award winning 26 episode 6 DVD Box Set in both English Spanish for the first time to the public. (www.smartkidsgroup.com)

Be Alert Bert, the award winning series and the largest library in the world dealing with educational safety for children, is now available in a 6-disc DVD set consisting of 26 shows in both English and Spanish.  Each episode is 25 minutes in length, a total of 650 minutes.  This series is one of a kind and is only available through WMX Group and Smart Kids Group.  The Be Alert Bert Series not only entertains your child but also teaches them about safety, friendship and the environment. 

The series combines live action, costumed characters and animation in a collection that the whole family can enjoy. “One of the most original, captivating and engaging DVD series ever created for children.”  Wacky characters, hilarious comedy and “must have” original songs make this series the perfect gift and the BEST in entertainment.

About WMX Group, Inc. (www.wmxgroup.com)

WMX Group, Inc. is a publically traded diversified holding company which has announced their Smart Kids Group Division will make history this week. WMX Group, Inc. anticipates the release of their “Be Alert Bert” 6 DVD Box Set to be a tremendous success around the world. “This is a very historic day for WMX Group, Inc. Our elite management team at WMX, and Smart Kids Group have been waiting for this day for some time and we are all very excited it is here,” said CEO Thomas Anthony Guerriero.

Smart Kids Group Division (www.smartkidsgroup.com)

We Inspire Vision! Smart Kids Group develops, distributes and licenses quality children’s character based Edutainment products through a variety of media including television, video, retail, direct marketing, and the Internet. For more information about the company, please visit www.smartkidsgroup.com or e-mail the company at info@smartkidsgroup.com.

Safe Harbor for Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and section 21B of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Readers are cautioned not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are only predictions and only speak as of the date hereof. Forward-looking statements usually contain the words “estimate,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “plan,” “expect,” or similar expressions and are subject to numerous known and unknown risks and uncertainties. These risks and uncertainties could cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially those indicated in the forward-looking statements.

Investors are encouraged to carefully review regulatory filings prior to investment consideration. Past performance is no guarantee of future success or that there cannot be losses or business interruption. The Company is in a rapid growth sector that may or may not continue to grow in the future and therefore poses risks that may be different than other investments. Management regularly provides news and additional information believed to be true and accurate at the time of dissemination but has no requirement to modify, comment or change in the future should circumstance change or information prove to be inaccurate for any reason. Additionally, the Company makes every effort to comply with all applicable laws.

Contact:
WMX Group, Inc
info@wmxgroup.com

SOURCE Smart Kids Group

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CORALVILLE, Iowa, May 21, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — McCord Research, the parent company of Pinnaclife, warns parents that they should be careful when selecting a swimming location for their children during summer months.  Most farmers are aware of the serious health threats to livestock and heed the blue-green algae warnings issued by state universities and departments of agriculture.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120510/CG05130LOGO)

Health alerts are issued by states when they believe that the level of toxins, associated with blue-green algae are potentially unsafe for full-body recreational activities, such as swimming.  Public lakes and beaches are monitored and often closed to swimmers and boaters. 

The “scum” actually is not an algae, but photosynthetic bacteria called cyanobacteria, according to the North Dakota State University Extension Service. On hot summer days, the bacteria “blooms” and can spread quickly. Studies of green blue algae have found that most strains found in brackish lakes and ponds are toxic to humans.(1) Cynobacteria toxin exposure has been known to cause swimmer’s ear, irritation and blistering of the skin and throat, pneumonia, vomiting, diarrhea, convulsions, liver damage and death. (2)   

If you or your children are around area ponds, even if you do not enter the water, Pinnaclife recommends that you apply their specialized Olivamine-containing Skin Repair Cream sold in Hy-Vee stores.  It contains N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) that is a known antidote for cyanobacteria poisoning.(3) Topical NAC protection is vital as the skin is more vulnerable to bacterial attack in the water. While stomach acids do provide some protection internally, without topical NAC protection the skin is defenseless against cyanobacteria toxins.(4) The Skin Repair Cream may offer some protection but caution must be taken.  Also, during the summer months taking Pinnaclife Olivamine supplements, containing N-acetyl-L-cysteine, may give the immune system a boost.  Having a healthy immune system during the summer months when the family is out enjoying water activities is important.  Pinnaclife Olivamine supplements are available at most Hy-Vee stores and at www.pinnaclife.com.

In livestock and pets, blue-green algae toxins can affect the nervous system, according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.  Symptoms include muscle tremors, decreased movement and difficulty breathing and convulsions and death.  If any of these symptoms occur after contact with blue-green algae, contact the Poison Hotline (800-222-1222) right away or contact your local veterinarian.  Topical symptoms include dermatitis and immediate medical help should be sought.

Not only is there a risk of coming into contact with blue green algae in local ponds and lakes, it is also sold by some companies as a health supplement or it is found in topical products.(5) In a University of California Berkeley Wellness Alert it especially warns of the risks associated with using blue-green algae products that have algae harvested from the Upper Klamath Lake (AFA) region in southern Oregon.  According to the Berkeley Wellness Alert, “blue-green algae is not a medicine or a good source of nutrients.(6)  Blue-green algae, especially AFA harvested from natural lakes, are easily contaminated with toxins such as microcystins and heavy metals.  Health Canada, the equivalent of the US FDA, found that some supplements had high levels of microcystin and warned consumers – especially those thinking of giving AFA to their children.”

Pinnaclife is committed to good science that serves as the foundation for safe and effective topical and nutritional products.

For Further Information:
Darlene McCord, Ph.D.
CEO, CSO, McCord Research
319-358-5536

SOURCE McCord Research

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LONDON, May 22, 2012 /PRNewswire/ –

Unique educational insight into different cultures

Today sees the launch of an exciting new virtual world aimed at children between 6-11 years old.  Petra’s Planet (http://www.petrasplanet.com) is an educational virtual world that stimulates children’s natural curiosity and encourages exploration of other cultures through play in a virtual environment.  

There are four countries to discover in Petra’s Planet, including Sami land, Senegal, Sri Lanka and Jordan.  Children can explore the different cultures and lives of the people from each country, learning about their lifestyles, as well as discovering the different animals that live in each country, the landscape and climate.  

Aside from the strong educational element, Petra’s Planet offers children the chance to enjoy hours of fun exploring the world; playing mini-games and taking part in quests and challenges, either individually or playing with friends in a safe and controlled environment.  With learning through play a key part of Petra’s Planet, the virtual world offers one of the UK’s richest game content, boosting over 47 individual educational and fun mini-games.

Other players in the virtual world are visible and the site gives children the opportunity to communicate with each other but only using pre-defined phrases, signs, expressions and funny gestures, thus ensuring the complete safety of visitors.  

Tomi Heinonen, CEO of Dramaforum, the company behind Petra’s Planet said, “Young children are naturally curious and we wanted to create a fun, educational and above all else, completely safe environment in which to explore unfamiliar countries around the world.”  

He continued, “Every country offers something different to discover, nurturing children’s curiosity and provoking interest and the opportunity to learn about different cultures.  Each location that Petra visits is incredibly authentic and enables children to get a real feel for each country.”

New content will be created and added to Petra’s Planet continuously, with new regions being introduced in the months ahead.

Petra’s Planet is free to play or membership packages are available.  Alternatively, virtual items can be bought via micro transactions, called ‘Kipps’ starting at £1 for 200 Kipps or earned by reaching certain levels on quests and challenges.

Parents and children can keep up-to-date on all the latest Petra’s Planet news by following on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest.

Editor’s Notes:

About Petra’s Planet

Petra’s Planet was created by Dramaforum Oy, a Finnish media company specialising in children’s products, with the virtual world developed by Leeds-based Dubit and Kzero.

The virtual world has been inspired by Eevamaria Halttunen’s book series with the same title and based on the adventures of seven year old Petra who finds a way to travel around the globe. The virtual world continues the theme of curiosity, safety and adventure.  

The team are passionate about valuing childhood, partnering with UNICEF in Finland, and keeping Petra’s Planet as commercially free as possible.

For media enquiries, site reviews, photography, logos, and interviews or to discuss competition prizes please contact one of the UK PR team at KISS Public Relations:

Laura Brown/Natalie Job/Justine Smith
T: +44(0)208-12345-75
E-mail: laura@kisscom.co.uk
natalie_job@kisscom.co.uk
justine@kisscom.co.uk

SOURCE Petra’s Planet

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4 out of 5 student finalists attend schools in Central Basin service area

COMMERCE, Calif., May 18, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ – Central Basin Municipal Water District (CBMWD) Board President Ed Vasquez was on hand this past Saturday to recognize winners of the 34th Congressional District Student Art Competition. Of the more than 200 students participating, four of the top five entries were submitted by students who go to schools in the Central Basin service area. The students are Daisy Perez of Bellflower High School, Perla Almaraz of Maywood Academy, Jessica Marsano and Alexandra Arrellano, both from Warren High School. These students will be invited to the June meeting of the Central Basin Board of Directors to be recognized for their achievements.

“At a time when arts education funding is in danger of being cut, Central Basin is proud to join with Congresswoman Roybal-Allard to support and recognize the artistic talents of our youth,” said Central Basin Board President Ed Vasquez. “Central Basin values the role that art plays in developing our youth’s ability to communicate important messages across various mediums.”

In addition to supporting the 34th Congressional District Student Art Competition, Central Basin also collaborates with the Metropolitan Water District (MWD) on the “Water is Life” Poster Contest. As part of the District’s recognition of Water Awareness Month each May, students from the Central Basin service area are encouraged to create posters that creatively depict various water use or water conservation messages. The winning poster for the Central Basin service area is then submitted to MWD to be included in a calendar and featured on water bottles and other promotional items. Since 2005, more than 80,000 students have participated in the “Water is Life” Poster Contest.

The Central Basin Municipal Water District meets the water needs of more than 2 million people living and working within southeast Los Angeles County. It is proud to be able to provide the lowest imported water rates in the region, and continues to work with the local communities to protect the public’s access to affordable and safe drinking water.

Contact: Joseph Legaspi
Phone: (323) 201-5552

SOURCE Central Basin Municipal Water District

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