FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – The world’s largest collection of LGBT historical artifacts and documents, the Stonewall National Museum & Archives (SNMA), has a new Executive Director.  After a national search by SNMA, David Jobin has been named to the position following a unanimous vote of both the search committee and Board of Directors of the Fort Lauderdale-based museum, library and archives.  He takes over June 1.

Jobin has been Executive Director of the 250-voice Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, D.C., since 2009, and is credited with helping it to significantly bolster fundraising and community outreach programs.  Prior to his work with the Chorus, Jobin spent 20 years in theater management in San Francisco and Pittsburgh.

In his new role at SNMA, Jobin will oversee all aspects of the operations, management and fundraising of the 40-year-old institution, which can be found on the Web at www.stonewallnationalmuseum.org.  Jobin’s office will be located at the Stonewall facility, 1300 E. Sunrise Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale.

David Jobin

“David Jobin will bring a new dimension to the future of the Stonewall National Museum & Archives,” said Board Chair Thomas Tabor.   “His national reach will help us develop and distribute LGBT educational materials based on our extensive archives.  He will help us collect important LGBT materials, adding to items in our collection such as the gavel used by the Speaker of the House during the vote to end ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.’  And he will help us with national and global outreach as we partner with other LGBT organizations, as well as major libraries, museums and universities.”

Jobin echoed those comments and stated, “I am excited to be joining the Stonewall National Museum & Archives at this time of sweeping changes on issues critical to the LGBT community.  I look forward to working with the board, staff and volunteers to capture and document this progress and to put it in context for this and future generations.”

Jobin holds a bachelor’s degree from Grove City College in Grove City, Pa.   He will reside in Wilton Manors, Fla., with his husband, Angel Burgos.

About the Stonewall National Museum & Archives The Stonewall National Museum & Archives (SNMA) is a nonprofit, tax-exempt organization which collects, preserves and displays the most extensive compilation of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) literature, culture and history.  The SNMA collection includes both permanent and traveling exhibitions, precious historic artifacts, a professionally-organized archive, and the largest freestanding LGBT library in the United States.  For more information, visit www.stonewallnationalmuseum.org.

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 MEDIA CONTACT: Gary Bitner, 954/849-9201

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“We have spent nearly two years scouring our 77,000 piece collection to pull together this exclusive music memorabilia showcase that will wow our guests,” said Jeff Nolan, Hard Rock historian and tour curator. “Fans won’t want to miss this rare glimpse into entertainment history and opportunity to get close to some of the most iconic personal items from music’s renowned performers.”

Nolan is responsible for generating music and memorabilia-related content for the Hard Rock brand’s online programs, as well as serving as a consultant regarding valuation and preservation of memorabilia items. He began as a Hard Rock employee in the tour department at Hard Rock Cafe Orlando which serves as the template for a company-wide “Vibe Host” department. He’s now responsible for travelling with Hard Rock’s “Treasures of the Hard Rock” memorabilia exhibit across the country, providing insight and storytelling for the top pieces selected from Hard Rock’s priceless 77,000+ memorabilia collection.

“Gone Too Soon” pays tribute to music icons whose lives and careers were tragically cut short. It features items from contemporary talent such as an outfit worn by Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes during TLC’s CrazySexyCool tour and an 8^th grade yearbook from Kurt Cobain to artifacts from legends of the past like Elvis Presley’s custom-made karate gi uniform and the unique Guild 12-string acoustic guitar Bob Marley used to record “Is This Love.”

Hard Rock’s “Love All, Serve All” mantra was the inspiration for “Music Gives Back – Rock ‘N’ Roll Philanthropy.” This collection focuses on artists who have worked with the brand on various charitable campaigns throughout its more than 40 years. The exhibit features items including Elton John’s sequined “Uncle Sam” outfit, a purple silk shirt worn onstage by Jimi Hendrix and John Lennon’s iconic round glasses.

John Lennon Glasses

Elton John’s Uncle Sam Outfit

“Treasures of the Hard Rock” traveling memorabilia exhibit, tour stop locations and public viewing dates, please visit www.hardrock.com.

About Treasures of the Hard Rock

Hard Rock International is the world’s original curator of music memorabilia with the most far-reaching collection. The 77,000+ piece collection, which celebrates new and legendary music icons, is the world’s greatest collection of music memorabilia. In 2013 Hard Rock developed “Treasures of the Hard Rock,” three traveling memorabilia exhibits each featuring a unique theme. The “Gone Too Soon,” “Music Gives Back” and “50 Years of Rock & Pop Fashion” collections will tour Hard Rock locations in the U.S., Europe, and points in between throughout the year, giving fans an up-close look at pieces of history from music superstars and legends

About Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Tampa

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Tampa recently completed a $75 million expansion, making it the world’s sixth-largest casino, based on gaming positions or number of seats at a table or slot. This ultimate entertainment destination features 118 table games including Blackjack, Mini and Midi-Baccarat, Pai Gow Tiles and Poker, Three Card Poker and Texas Hold ‘em Poker, along with over 5,000 slot machines and a smoke-free poker room with 50 tables offering high stakes action. The luxurious High Limit Table Games Room features 17 tables for blackjack and midi-baccarat and offers higher table limits, a personal cashier and attentive bartenders. For the sixth year in a row, the American Automobile Association (AAA) has awarded this 250-luxury room hotel its prestigious Four Diamond rating. Guests can enjoy a new pool area and restaurants including the Hard Rock Cafe Tampa, part of Hard Rock’s 142 globally recognized rock ‘n’ roll themed restaurants, the award-winning Council Oak Steaks & Seafood Restaurant, and Rise Kitchen & Bakery™, which features freshly baked breads and entrees made with fresh ingredients. The new Asian gaming complex Jubao Palace features 17 table games and an accompanying 15-seat, quick service noodle bar. Valet and more than 5,000 free, self-parking spaces are available. The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa is located off of I-4 at North Orient Road and Hillsborough Avenue, between I-75 and I-275, about 10 minutes east of downtown Tampa. For more information, please call 1-800-937-0010 or visit us online at www.seminolehardrocktampa.com  or www.facebook.com/seminolehardrocktampa. Follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/SHRTampa.

About Hard Rock International

With a total of 179 venues in 57 countries, including 141 cafes, 18 hotels and 8 casinos, Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world’s greatest collection of music memorabilia, which is displayed at its locations around the globe. Hard Rock is also known for its collectible fashion and music-related merchandise, Hard Rock Live performance venues and an award-winning website. HRI owns the global trademark for all Hard Rock brands.  The company owns, operates and franchises Cafes in iconic cities including London, New York, San Francisco, Sydney and Dubai. HRI also owns, licenses and/or manages hotel/casino properties worldwide. Destinations include the companies’ two most successful Hotel and Casino properties in Tampa and Hollywood, Fl., both owned and operated by HRI parent company The Seminole Tribe of Florida., as well as other exciting locations including Bali, Biloxi, Chicago, Cancun, Las Vegas, San Diego and Singapore. Upcoming new Hard Rock Cafe locations include San Jose, Ibiza, Chennai, Istanbul and Tenerife. New Hard Rock Hotel projects include Daytona Beach, Palm Springs, Aruba, Riviera Maya, Abu Dhabi and Shenzhen and Haikou in China. New Hard Rock Casino projects in development include Hungary and Northfield, OH.  For more information on Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrock.com.

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With the winding down of NASA’s space program and the mass layoffs at Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex (KSCVC) struggled with the message to alert the public that it was still open, and indeed, welcoming guests. Research conducted by the Visitor Complex had indicated that the general public was not aware of the difference between the NASA federal government-run portion of the facility and the privately run public and educational visitor complex.

Declining numbers and poor media awareness regarding new exhibits, activities, tours and initiatives contributed to the public’s confusion.

Bitner Goodman was brought on-board by Delaware North Companies Parks & Resorts at KSC Inc., a division of Delaware North Companies, one of the world’s leading hospitality and food service providers, to serve as an extension of its public relations department. We were challenged to change public perception and raise awareness for the Visitor Complex’s 50^th anniversary activities that included two new tours, promote limited opportunities to see retired space shuttles in previously off-limit areas, assist with private sector launch activity/publicity and build momentum for the new Atlantis Shuttle exhibit to open in July 2013.

Objectives

• Reinforce the “open for business” message through press releases and targeted informational pitches to key national and international media, bloggers and the public
• Maintain top-of-mind awareness by positioning KSCVC as a “must-see” thrilling attraction in the Central Florida area with new rare tours and exhibits to bring visitors closer-than-ever to where space history was made.
• Build momentum for activities leading up to the space shuttle Atlantis’ final journey and eventual unveiling of the Atlantis – Celebrate the Journey exhibit in July 2013. Key to this objective was making the public aware that this would be the historic last movement of the last flown space shuttle anywhere in the world.
• Develop an international, local and regional distribution of interested media
• Generate positive editorial coverage for private-sector launches and KSCV related activities
• Operate as an extension of the public relations department at KSCV assisting with media tours, fams and on-site presence at other key initiatives

Strategy & Action

The Bitner Goodman team developed a comprehensive international database of media including travel, lifestyle, space/science, business and blogger media in KSCVC’s top tourist markets. Key releases were translated into the countries’ native languages to increase pick-up. Top regional media, space/science writers and mom bloggers were identified and invited to an extremely limited series of preview events to report on the special tours and behind-the-scenes stories of the exhibit in progress.

Results

In less than four months, the Bitner Goodman team placed hundreds of traditional print, online and broadcast hits stateside and internationally announcing KSCV’s 50^th anniversary year activities and new tours. These included CNN, USA Today, the Miami Herald, United Kingdom bloggers and trade publications. On-site coverage and behind-the-scenes sneak peeks arranged by Bitner Goodman with local Central Florida TV affiliates ABC, CBS, NBC and FOX went national on several occasions and was rebroadcast on the Top 10 market affiliates in Los Angeles, New York, Chicago and Atlanta, among others.

Based on our success, the agency has been retained by Delaware North Companies for 2013 for the grand opening of the space shuttle Atlantis exhibit and new scheduled attractions.

And, as a direct result of our industry knowledge and positive track record, Bitner Goodman was contracted for additional projects for Delaware North Companies including the high profile grand opening of the country’s first Food Network Kitchen at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.

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Granite Transformations offers stylish design options to update kitchens and bathrooms

MIRAMAR, FL (April 9, 2013) – Getting a tax refund? Millions of Americans will receive a refund and allocate the funds toward remodeling their kitchens and bathrooms as an investment in their home. Granite Transformations, a global full-service home and business remodeling resource known for its revolutionary stone resurfacing process, offers a variety of exclusive products for homeowners looking to reinvest their tax refund dollars in home renovations.

“Granite Transformations is the perfect choice to help homeowners remodel with a great product selection and convenient in-home shopping,” said Carmine DeChiara, director of marketing, Granite Transformations. “Reinvesting tax refund dollars into the home allows homeowners to plan for the future, while also improving the look of their space.”

The average American received a $2,803 refund on returns filed in 2012, according to the Internal Revenue Service. The home is one of America’s most valuable assets, and it pays to take care of it and reinvest in its future. Home renovations can increase property value anywhere from 10% to 20% depending on the remodeled space.

Spending on home improvements should surge to $134 billion by the second quarter of 2013, according to Harvard’s Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity, which is up 21% from 2011.

“Strong growth in sales of existing homes and housing starts, coupled with historically low financing costs, have typically been associated with an upturn in home remodeling activity some months later,” said Kermit Baker, director of the Remodeling Futures Program at the Joint Center. “While the housing market has faced some unique challenges in recent years, this combination is expected to produce a favorable outlook for home improvement spending over the coming months.”

As the highest-traffic area of the home, the kitchen experiences a lot of wear and tear. It’s also the room that can become outdated the quickest. Granite Transformations can help homeowners utilize their tax refund to upgrade their countertops with granite, reface cabinets and add a backsplash. This spring, bold patterned granite countertops play a starring role in any kitchen as a durable and solid surface and darker wood tones add warmth to kitchen cabinets.

Next to kitchens, bathrooms are the most-remodeled room in the home. Granite Transformations offers gorgeous glass mosaic tiles available in a variety of colors and custom design patterns to adorn shower and bathtub walls, vanity options with granite countertops in a wide array of colors ranging from traditional earth tones to vibrant reds and oranges and stylish flooring selections.

Granite Transformations’ exclusive product selection can help to transform any bathroom or kitchen.

About Granite Transformations

Granite Transformations, a global full-service home and business remodeling resource, offers an impressive selection of stylish and affordable alternatives to traditional countertops, backsplashes, cabinets, floors and more. Best known for its revolutionary stone resurfacing process ideal for kitchens and bathrooms, Granite Transformations is meeting the needs of clients with franchise locations throughout the North America, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. For more information, visit http://www.granitetransformations.com/.

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Work of art proves that mosaic tiles are a great resource for interior and exterior applications

MIRAMAR, FL (April 8, 2013) – Trend Group, an international manufacturer and distributor of mosaic tile collections, has helped to transform Sebring International Raceway in Sebring, Fl with the debut of a show-stopping, 3,120 square foot outdoor mural crafted with an array of mosaic tiles.  The design project, titled “Trend at the Track,” depicts the excitement of race car driving and exemplifies why the company’s mosaic tile collection is ideal for a variety of design projects.

To execute the piece of architectural ingenuity, Trend Group commissioned world-respected artist James R. Hahn to design the exhilarating mural. The result is an attention-grabbing work of art that is aesthetically pleasing, yet functional due to the tile product’s long-lasting and low-maintenance qualities.

“Trend Group is pleased with this exciting project, which demonstrates the versatility and durability of our mosaic tile while bringing the magic of a popular event to life,” said Paul Lane, COO of Trend Group. “This project shows why our product is the clear choice for designers who are seeking to enhance any space with murals, sculptures and other architectural elements.”

The success of the well-executed mural is largely due to the sum of its parts; nearly half a million of Trend Group’s highly regarded mosaic tiles.  The mosaic tiles are offered in over a dozen styles in numerous colors and combinations, offering designers the opportunity to create nearly any design conceivable.  The tiles are also extremely weather-resistant and require little upkeep, making them especially suitable for outdoor design projects.

For more information, please visit Trend USA’s website at www.trend-group.com.

ABOUT TREND GROUP USA

Trend Group is an international manufacturer and distributor of mosaic tile collections, produced in recycled glass, 24K gold, Venetian enamel, natural stone, and engineered agglomerate containing fragmented glass, quartz and granite.  Since its inception in 2000 the company has grown to over 700 employees with operations in more than 50 countries.  Trend USA offers customized glass mosaic and agglomerates, which combine the tradition of sensual Italian beauty with American innovation.

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Trend Group has helped to transform Sebring International Raceway with this amazing 3,120 square-foot mosaic tile tribute to race car driving perfectly named “Trend at the Track.”

The post GIANT MOSAIC TRIBUTE BY TREND GROUP TRANSFORMS SEBRING INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY appeared first on Bitner Goodman.

North Mississippi Allstars and other Top Acts to Perform at the 6^th Annual Blues, Brews & BBQ at Seminole Casino Coconut Creek

BBQ Experts Smoking Savory Meats, Over 100 Premium Beer Samples and Live Entertainment

COCONUT CREEK, Fla. -  Blues-infused rock and roll band North Mississippi Allstars, New Orleans brass band Bonerama joined by special guest Dave Malone of The Radiators, Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band, Albert Cummings and Tab Benoit will perform at the 6^th Annual Blues, Brews & BBQ at Seminole Casino Coconut Creek on April 20. The festival takes place from 2 – 11 p.m. All entertainment will take place in The Pavilion, and BBQ vendors will be located in the west parking lot just outside The Pavilion.

Tickets are $25 and are on sale now at www.ticketmaster.com. Ticket includes unlimited beer and free entertainment. Food can be purchased for an additional fee. Guests must be 21 and older.

Playin’ The Blues

Brothers Luther (guitar, mandolin, vocals) and Cody Dickinson (drums, sampling) formed the North Mississippi Allstars in 1996 with bassist Chris Chew. The sons of legendary producer Jim Dickinson were born in Tennessee and later moved to northern Mississippi, where they soaked up the country blues sound of the region from artists like Fred McDowell and R.L. Burnside. That became the chief inspiration for the Allstars, but the group also mixes in a rock edge, an alternative aesthetic and a road-ready rock & roll sensibility akin to jam bands like Phish. They released their debut album, Shake Hands with Shorty, in 2000 and earned a Grammy nomination for Best Contemporary Blues Album. They earned two more Grammy nominations in the same category for 51 Phantom in 2001 and Electric Blue Watermelon in 2005. In 2008, after five studio albums and more than a decade of touring together, the Dickinsons pursued other projects and reunited again in 2010 to record Keys to the Kingdom. Most recently, they have toured extensively with Robert Plant & The Band of Joy, headlined major festivals and toured internationally as a headliner with Ian Siegal as part of the Mississippi Mudbloods. They are at times joined by Lightnin’ Malcolm, Alvin Youngblood Hart, previous member Chris Chew, and a host of other talented musicians. The band continually expands the tradition of the Mississippi hill country blues that inspired them from the beginning.

Rock-oriented New Orleans brass band Bonerama was formed by trombonists Mark Mullins and Craig Klein, both of whom had been members of Harry Connick Jr.’s big band since 1990. Mullins obtained a weekly residency at the New Orleans nightclub Tipitina’s in the summer of 1998 and turned it into a trombone summit. Despite its horn-heavy instrumentation, Bonerama was a rock band, known for playing such covers as “Frankenstein” by the Edgar Winter Group along with songs by Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath and the Allman Brothers Band. The group’s first album, Live at the Old Point, was released in 2001. Live from New York followed in 2005, and the third consecutive album, Bringing It Home, was released in 2007. Bonerama was recognized as the “Best Rock Band” by the Big Easy Awards in 2007 and 2010.

Dave Malone of The Radiators will make a special guest appearance, performing with Bonerama. Malone was the guitarist of one of New Orleans’ most popular rock & roll bands, which served up a smorgasbord of musical styles that included blues, R&B, funk and rootsy rock & roll.

Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band is a three-piece outfit that plays a combination of roots music and alternative country that is also heavily influenced by country blues. At its center is Josh Peyton (vocals, guitar), who grew up listening to his father’s blues-rock albums. His wife Breezy plays the washboard and also provides back-up vocals while Aaron “Cuz” Persinger plays the drums. After receiving an electric guitar and amp at age 12, Peyton became infatuated with pre-World War II country blues and a desire to learn the fingerstyle picking of artists like Charlie Patton. The trio released their first album, The Pork ‘n’ Beans Collection, in 2004. It was followed by albums released on a yearly basis. In 2009, the trio opened for Clutch on an extensive headlining tour of Europe and that same year joined the Van Warped Tour. They were on the entire 2010 Van’s Warped Tour and received the Best Band of Warped Tour Award, voted by the crew, bands and promoters. Their fifth album, Between the Ditches, was released in 2012.

Albert Cummings started playing the five-string banjo when he was 12 and appeared headed for a career in bluegrass. In his late teens, he was introduced to the music of Stevie Ray Vaughan and soon made the transition to electric guitar. A chance encounter with Vaughan’s old band, Double Trouble, led to Cummings’ first solo record, From the Heart, which was recorded in Austin, TX, and featured Cummings fronting Double Trouble. His soulful and explosive approach to blues rock and roll caught the attention of Blind Pig Records, which signed in to a multi-album deal. His debut album, True to Yourself, was released in 2004. He has since shared the bill with B.B. King, the Neville Brothers, Sheryl Crow and Buddy Guy.

Guitarist, singer and songwriter Tab Benoit is a rising star on the modern blues scene. Nice and Warm, his debut album, prompted some critics to say he was sometimes reminiscent of three blues guitar gods: Albert King, Albert Collins and Jimi Hendrix. He has taken his blend of swamp blues and East Texas guitar-driven blues to live shows all over the United States, Canada and Europe.

Brews & BBQ                                             

But genuine blues performances are only the highlight of this barbeque extravaganza that’s grown in popularity each year with its 100-plus-brand beer sampling and delicious BBQ served at booths by the best local restaurants.

Local beer connoisseurs and people who just enjoy trying different brews — without having to pay full bottle or glass prices for the sake of experimentation — are drawn each year to the brew sampling.

Here’s the performance schedule for Saturday, April 20:

3 – 3:45 p.m. – Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band

4:15 – 5 p.m. Albert Cummings

5:30 – 7 p.m. – Bonerama, with special guest Dave Malone of The Radiators

7:30 – 8:30 p.m. Tab Benoit

9 – 10:30 p.m. North Mississippi Allstars

About Seminole Casino Coconut Creek 

The all-new Seminole Casino Coconut Creek is South Florida’s hottest place to play. With its recent $150 million expansion, the entertainment destination now features 65 table games of live Blackjack, Baccarat, Pai Gow Poker, Let it Ride and Spanish 21 plus a High-Limit area and lounge on a 100,000-square-foot casino floor. The new second floor non-smoking Stax Poker Lounge offers high stakes no-limit action including Texas Hold ‘em, 7-Card Stud and Omaha Hi Lo tournaments. More than 2,300 Las Vegas-style slots include Wide-Area Progressive Jackpots and Mega Jackpots. Three new restaurants – the upscale NYY Steak, Sorrisi Italian Restaurant and the New York-style 1^st Street Deli – join the award winning Fresh Harvest, Nectar Lounge and Sunset Grill. Taking total guest enjoyment to a new level is The Pavilion, a 1,200-seat concert venue, and the revolutionary Player’s Club showcasing an innovative and immersive experience eliminating wait times. An environmentally friendly garage with solar energy and green art technology offers 2,400 covered parking spaces. An adjacent transportation hub is outfitted with valet service and a bus lounge for ultimate comfort and guest convenience. Open 24/7, 365 days, Seminole Casino Coconut Creek is located at the corner of U.S. 441 (State Road 7) and Sample Road at 5550 NW 40 Street. For more information, call 954-977-6700, visit us online at www.seminolecasinococonutcreek.com or www.facebook.com/seminolecasinocococreek. Follow us on Twitter @SemCasinoCoCo.

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Media Contacts:

Michael Goodman/Robyn Hankerson

Bitner Goodman

                                                                                                            954-730-7730 ext. 105/108

SOUTH FLORIDA SINGERS 65 AND OLDER INVITED TO AUDITION FOR TRI-RAIL’S “SENIOR IDOL” ON MARCH 19

 Seminole Casino Coconut Creek to host 8^th annual competition

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (February 19, 2013) – Seniors 65 years and older with a knack for singing are invited to audition for Tri-Rail’s “Senior Idol” on Tues., March 19 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Seminole Casino Coconut Creek, located at 5550 NW 40^th St.  As part of this exciting event, 12 finalists will be chosen to sing their way to the top at the final competition for the chance to win a $500 cash prize, free pass to ride Tri-Rail for one year and the title of “Senior Idol.”  Tri-Rail’s 8^th annual “Senior Idol” is sponsored in part by Seminole Casino Coconut Creek, Boomer Times, Holy Cross Hospital and John Knox Village.

“We are pleased that the community has embraced Senior Idol as our signature event and now with the support of Seminole Casino Coconut Creek it is sure to enjoy continued success,” said Bonnie Arnold, public information officer for SFRTA/Tri-Rail.  “Along with discounted train fares for riders 65 years and older, this singing competition is another way Tri-Rail continues to honor its commitment to the senior community.”

Since the inaugural competition in 2006, more than 700 tri-county seniors have auditioned for the chance to become a finalist and compete in the coveted competition.  Past winners include Don Ladd of Tamarac, Sonny Allegro of Hollywood, Janet Anguilli of Ft. Lauderdale, Ed Pierson of Weston, Robert Kolodin of Tamarac, Josephine Dolce of Highland Beach and 2012 winner Sharon Lovett of West Palm Beach.

The local competition is open to solo singers who are residents of Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach Counties.  A panel of judges will select the 12 contestants who will go on to compete in the final competition at Seminole Casino Coconut Creek on Sat., May 11.

“Seminole Casino Coconut Creek is thrilled to welcome the South Florida community to enjoy Tri Rail’s 8^th annual ‘Senior Idol’,” said Steve Bonner, president of Seminole Casino Coconut Creek. “We strive to provide an exceptional gaming, dining and entertainment experience and this emerging singing competition will be a wonderful addition to our performance roster.”

To register for an audition time, please call 954-714-7892 by 5 p.m. on Fri., March 15.

Tri-Rail, South Florida’s premier commuter rail system, serves Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties with 18 conveniently located train stations, bus and Metrorail connections and service every day of the year. For more information about Tri-Rail, visit www.tri-rail.com or call 1-800-TRI-RAIL.

About Event Sponsors:

The all-new Seminole Casino Coconut Creek is South Florida’s hottest place to play. With its recent $150 million expansion, the entertainment destination now features 65 table games of live Blackjack, Baccarat, Pai Gow Poker, Let it Ride and Spanish 21 plus a High-Limit area and lounge on a 100,000-square-foot casino floor. The new second floor non-smoking Stax Poker Lounge offers high stakes no-limit action including Texas Hold ‘em, 7-Card Stud and Omaha Hi Lo tournaments. More than 2,300 Las Vegas-style slots include Wide-Area Progressive Jackpots and Mega Jackpots. Three new restaurants – the upscale NYY Steak, Sorrisi Italian Restaurant and the New York-style 1^st Street Deli – join the award winning Fresh Harvest, Nectar Lounge and Sunset Grill. Taking total guest enjoyment to a new level is The Pavilion, a 1,200-seat concert venue, and the revolutionary Player’s Club showcasing an innovative and immersive experience eliminating wait times. An environmentally friendly garage with solar energy and green art technology offers 2,400 covered parking spaces. An adjacent transportation hub is outfitted with valet service and a bus lounge for ultimate comfort and guest convenience. Open 24/7, 365 days, Seminole Casino Coconut Creek is located at the corner of U.S. 441 (State Road 7) and Sample Road at 5550 NW 40 Street. For more information, call 954-977-6700, visit us online at www.seminolecasinococonutcreek.com or www.facebook.com/seminolecasinocococreek. Follow us on Twitter @SemCasinoCoCo.

Boomer Times is the leading senior publication in South Florida, serving more than 125,000 active adults in the tri-county area.  Readers enjoy information about financial, health, social and other issues facing seniors.

Holy Cross Hospital is Broward County’s only full-service, non-profit Catholic hospital, and sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy. Holy Cross takes pride in the ability to combine quality medical care and advanced technology with sincere human compassion and understanding. The hospital is fully accredited by the Joint Commission and its medical team has earned a reputation for excellence unsurpassed in the community.  To learn more about Holy Cross, visit www.holy-cross.com.

John Knox Village is a not-for-profit continuing-care retirement community (CCRC) located on a 64-acre campus of lakes and lush tropical landscaping in Pompano Beach. The Village opened in 1967 to provide seniors, aged 62 and over, a comprehensive community where they would be cared for life. The Village offers a full range of activities, in a Wellness environment encompassing independent living, assisted living and nursing care options for its residents.  John Knox Village is located at 651 S.W. Sixth Street in Pompano Beach, just east of I-95 and south of Atlantic Boulevard. Call (954) 783-4040 for more information.

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IMMOKALEE, Fla. –Seminole Casino Immokalee will bring its 2^nd Annual “Balloons Over Paradise” Festival to the Seminole Tribe Youth Ranch Immokalee on April 20-21, starting at 6 a.m. daily. This celebration of flight will feature more than 40 custom hot air balloons and plenty of fun for the whole family including tethered balloon rides, live music by award-winning performers, food vendors, art showcase, children’s activities, carnival games, acrobatic kite demonstrations, classic car show, demonstrations by agility dogs and more. Admission is free to the all-ages festival. The Seminole Tribe Youth Ranch is located at 1195 SR 29 in Immokalee.

“Last year’s Balloons Over Paradise Festival had over 18,000 attendees, and we’re thrilled to bring this entertainment-packed weekend back to Southwest Florida,” said Jim Gibson, director of marketing at Seminole Casino Immokalee. “There’s something for everyone, and for the first time, we’re offering tethered balloon rides.”

The colorful balloons will kick off each morning with an illuminated light show to orchestral music. Festival-goers will be able to walk among the balloons as they inflate for a mass ascension into the sky. Specialty balloons include Sugar Bear, Ella “phant” and a flying globe.

Attendees will enjoy a great line-up of activities, all to the sounds of a variety of bands. On Saturday, April 20, pop-rocker Eddie Money will perform his greatest hits. During the late ‘70s, Money had a handful of album rock hits and wound up crossing over into the Top 40 with songs like “Baby Hold On” and “Maybe I’m a Fool.” During the early ‘80s, he began to make funny narrative videos, which became staples on early MTV and made “Shakin” and “Think I’m in Love” hits.1986’s Can’t Hold Back featured the hit “Take Me Home Tonight” and “I Wanna Go Back,” making the album a Top 10 smash. In 1988, Money followed the album with Nothing to Lose, which featured the Top 10 “Walk on Water.” Two years later, “Peace in Our Time,” taken from the 1989 Greatest Hits: The Sound of Money, reached No. 11.

On Sunday, April 21, American pop-rockers The Buckinghams will perform. Backing Dennis Tufano’s buoyant lead vocals with prominent harmonies and punchy soul-styled brass, the group’s “Kind of Drag” became a million-selling pop chart-topper. “Don’t You Care,” “Hey Baby (They’re Playing Our Song),” and the pseudo-psychedelic “Susan,” all proved to be major hits for the band. The group’s R&B roots surfaced on a vocal adaptation of Cannonball Adderley’s jazz standard “Mercy, Mercy, Mercy,” their second-biggest hit. The band has shared the bill with The Beach Boys, Sonny and Cher, Neil Diamond and The Who. Original founding members guitarist Carl Giammarese and bassist Nick Fortuna continue to deliver a powerful replay of their hits and solid gold memories.

The Grass Roots will also perform on Sunday. The band had a series of major hits, most notably “Let’s Live for Today,” “Midnight Confessions,” “Temptation Eyes,” and “Two Divided by Love.” The folk-rock band charted 14 Top 40 hits, including seven gold singles and one platinum single.

Children will join in on the fun with storytelling, bounce houses and a climbing wall. Food vendors will be on hand with Amish donuts, kettle corn, crepes and great grilled hamburgers, hot dogs and sausage. Attendees will also enjoy funnel cakes, cotton candy and other treats.

Parking is free. Pets and coolers are not permitted.

For more information on “Balloons Over Paradise,” visit www.seminolecasinoevents.com.

About Seminole Casino Immokalee 

Open 24/7, 365 days a year, Seminole Casino Immokalee is Southwest Florida’s premier gaming destination, with 1,200 slots, including Tarzan, Betty Boop and The Hangover. The 75,000-square-foot plus casino offers 34 live tables games, including Blackjack, Mini-Baccarat, Pai Gow, Let It Ride, Three Card Poker, Texas Hold ‘em Bonus Poker, Blackjack Switch and Spanish 21. Seminole Casino Immokalee participates in the Seminole Players Club Wild Card Rewards Program whereby players earn and redeem points at all Seminole Casinos in Florida. Dining options include 1^st Street Deli, Southwest Florida’s only authentic New York-style delicatessen. This award-winning restaurant is open 24 hours. The EE-TO-LEET-KE (“The Camp”) Grill serves up its signature authentic Seminole fry bread and made-from-scratch favorites. The Zig Zag lounge, home of the Zig Zag Girlz, is “where the party never ends” with nightly live entertainment and no last call. TVs throughout the Zig Zag bar air sporting events and other entertainment. A 10,000-square-foot Event Pavilion seating up to 800 guests is for large entertainment events, such as concerts, weddings, banquets, company outings and privately-held dances. The casino has 1,800 parking spaces. Located at 506 South 1 Street in Immokalee. Seminole Casino Immokalee is easily accessible to all of Southwest Florida via I-75, and Southwest Florida International Airport is only a 45-minute drive from the casino. Located between Miami and Naples, north of Alligator Alley on Highway 846, it’s five blocks south of Highway 29. Approximately 30 minutes from Naples and Fort Myers, the casino is a 90-minute drive from Miami and Fort Lauderdale.  For more information, call toll-free (800) 218-0007 or visit www.seminoleimmokaleecasino.com or www.facebook.com/seminoleimmokalee.

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Media Contacts:

Cathy Baker, Seminole Casino Immokalee, (239) 658-7541, Cathy.Baker@stofgaming.com;

Ivonne Snavely, Bitner Goodman, (954) 703-7938, Ivonne@bitnergoodman.com

The post MORE THAN 40 HOT AIR BALLOONS TO FILL THE SOUTHWEST FLORIDA SKY AT SEMINOLE CASINO IMMOKALEE’S 2ND ANNUAL “BALLOONS OVER PARADISE,” APRIL 20-21 appeared first on Bitner Goodman.

MIRAMAR, FL (Feb. 6, 2013) – Granite Transformations, a global full-service home and business remodeling resource known for its revolutionary stone resurfacing process, announces today that iGranite, the company’s free app for Apple products, has been named one of the top 30 design apps for 2013 by Interior and Sources Magazine.

The national magazine compiled a list of some of the coolest, most innovative and handy apps on the market, highlighting those of which they have deemed most helpful.

Developed by Trend USA, iGranite allows users to take a snapshot of any residential or commercial space and transform the countertops, walls and floors with a simple swipe of their finger. Users can access Granite Transformation’s broad range of color and texture options and share their results with others directly through the app.

“Granite Transformations is proud to have the iGranite app named as one of the top 30 design apps for 2013 by Interior and Sources Magazine,” said Carl Griffenkranz, vice president of marketing and franchise support, Granite Transformations. “We’re always looking for ways to help our clients transform and visualize their space, even if it’s just digitally at first. The app serves as the perfect platform for users to design their next project and explore all that Granite Transformations has to offer.”

To download the app, go to https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/igranite/id459696902?mt=8.

About Granite Transformations

Granite Transformations, a global full-service home and business remodeling resource, offers an impressive selection of stylish and affordable alternatives to traditional countertops, backsplashes, cabinets, floors and more. Best known for its revolutionary stone resurfacing process ideal for kitchens and bathrooms, Granite Transformations is meeting the needs of its clients with franchise locations throughout North America, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. For more information, visit www.granitetransformations.com.

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The post iGRANITE NAMED ONE OF THE 30 TOP DESIGN APPS FOR 2013 appeared first on Bitner Goodman.

On behalf of Granite Transformations, Bitner Goodman will handle media relations, establish partnerships to increase visibility in each market and enhance community outreach efforts to strengthen each franchise’s lead market position. In addition, the firm will oversee the company’s social media platforms to regularly engage consumers and strengthen brand loyalty.

“We are pleased to join the experienced professionals that make-up the Granite Transformations team,” said Michael D. Goodman, Bitner Goodman partner. “With our extensive background in consumer retail and national and international relations, we feel well-positioned to help this growing company reach their public relations, social media and marketing goals.”

“Bitner Goodman was the clear choice to help promote our growing business,” said Carmine DeChiara, director of marketing, Granite Transformations. “It’s an award-winning firm with a proven track record of successful media placements, community engagement and visionary marketing initiatives for known consumer retail companies.”

Granite Transformations, a global full-service home and business remodeling resource, offers an impressive selection of stylish and affordable alternatives to traditional countertops, backsplashes, cabinets, floors and more. Best known for its revolutionary stone resurfacing process ideal for kitchens and bathrooms, Granite Transformations is meeting the needs of its clients with franchise locations throughout North America, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. For more information, visit www.granitetransformations.com.

About Bitner Goodman

Bitner Goodman is a regional marketing communications firm with offices in South Florida and Orlando. The firm represents leading companies and organizations in a variety of industries including retail, entertainment, hospitality, public transportation, government, technology, health care, real estate and more. For more than 30 years, Bitner Goodman has successfully coordinated major public relations and marketing campaigns in Florida and beyond on behalf of clients such as American Express, National Hockey League, Pfizer, Sawgrass Mills, Simon Property Group, Seminole Tribe of Florida, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood and Tampa, South Florida Regional Transportation Authority/Tri-Rail, The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale, Winn-Dixie and more. For more information, visit www.bitnergoodman.com.

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