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HOUSTON, TX – PRNewswire

Summer’s officially in full swing, which usually means vacation time for many, and consequently, many homes left unattended. Unfortunately, attention to energy efficiency in the home can often go overlooked when planning for travel, leading to unnecessarily high energy use while its occupants are away.

The professionals at Mister Sparky® are invested in making homes more energy-efficient and offer the following guidance for home owners as they travel this summer.

• Don’t turn your thermostat off, but do adjust it to a higher setting, such as 85 degrees, to decrease the inside and outside temperature difference and remove humidity. You’ll save more energy, while protecting sensitive parts of the interior of your home, such as your plants, artwork, refrigerator and more. Close blinds and curtains to eliminate excess heat.
• Do unplug appliances that aren’t essential to keeping the house running, and remember products in standby mode still use electricity. Major “energy vampires” include everything from an idle computer desktop, to a game console in “ready” mode, to an open microwave door, and many more. Consider using a power strip for multiple cords, which when easily switched off with one button, fully disconnects power even if the strip is still plugged in.
• Do consider a home energy audit by an electrician. This inspection of a home’s infrastructure and appliances, such as your HVAC system, refrigerator, hot water heater, insulation and roofing, is designed to identify areas of improvement, saving on electricity bills in the long run.

Keeping these tips in mind ensures homes are left in their most energy-efficient state when unoccupied, saving homeowners the headache of a high energy bill – and potentially more money to go toward their next vacation.

To learn more and find the Mister Sparky location near you, visit www.mistersparky.com.

Eau Claire, WI – Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse Eau Claire has just been honored for its outstanding wine program in Wine Spectator’s 2018 Restaurant Awards. The restaurant is recognized among other winners from all over the globe as a top destination for wine lovers.

“This year’s class of restaurants is one of the most impressive and innovative ever,” said Marvin R. Shanken, Editor and Publisher, Wine Spectator. “Their wine lists keep improving, because wine lovers are eager to explore and learn. The goal of our Restaurant Awards is to support restaurant wine programs and bring them to diners’ attention through our outreach through print, digital and social media. Wine Spectator salutes every restaurant honored in the 2018 Restaurant Awards.”

“We are extremely honored by this top award. It speaks to the caliber, hard work and dedication of the entire Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse team and our vision for the unique experience Johnny’s brings to the Region”, says Owner Tom Larson, of the news.

Wine Spectator began its program to recognize the world’s best wine lists in 1981. There are three levels: the Award of Excellence, the Best of Award of Excellence and the Grand Award – with 2,453; 1,215; and 91 winners this year in each respective category. Seven of the Grand Award winners are first timers. Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse Eau Claire has been awarded the Award of Excellence.

The Award of Excellence recognizes restaurants whose wine lists feature a well-chosen assortment of quality producers along with a thematic match to the menu in both price and style.

The complete list of award winners is available in print in Wine Spectator’s August issue, on newsstands July 17, and online at Restaurants.WineSpectator.com, where visitors can search and access exclusive content on the more than 3,700 restaurants. The full list is also available for free on iOS via the Restaurant Awards app, which allows users to look for dining spots in any location with maps, choosing by wine strengths, cuisine type, pricing and more.

Follow the Restaurant Awards on Twitter and Instagram, with hashtag #WSRestaurantAward.

Springfield, OR – The Human Bean will open their 77th location, on Monday, July 2, 2018 in Springfield, Oregon. The new location is owned and operated by Joe & Cathleen Karcher and their daughter, Lauren Karcher of JCK Coffee Company. “We are so excited to be joining the Springfield community!! We can’t wait to better serve Lane County with another location.” The Karchers own four other locations in Salem, Keizer and two in Eugene and this will be their 5th location, the first one in Springfield. The double drive thru window building is located on South 14th Street and Main Street.

The Human Bean’s commitment to developing the best drive-thru espresso led us to franchising The Human Bean’s brand and system in 2002. We are proud to announce that with the opening of this location, The Human Bean has now expanded to 77 locations in ten states, 64 of those being franchised locations and 13 being corporate locations. We expect to continue this growth through approved franchisees that share the same determination and commitment to our goals for this exceptional brand and have plans to open several more locations in the near future.

The new Springfield Human Bean is located at 160 South 14th St., Springfield, OR 97477. Their hours will be 5am – 9pm daily. Their phone is 541-780-6856. You can find them on social media at @thehumanbeaneugene on Facebook or Instagram.

LAS VEGAS – Raw Fitness announces the official franchise launch and national expansion of its Las Vegas-based fitness and nutrition model to extend into California, Arizona, Texas, Washington and many more with plans to reach 30 new markets in 2018.

Founded in 2010 by Chief Executive Officer Justin Blum, Raw Fitness has transformed thousands of lives for the better through expert-developed fitness and nutrition programs featuring an integrated mix of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) workouts, weight lifting, high-energy cardio and more. The originators of their local six-week weight loss challenge and advanced “Strength in 42” program, Raw Fitness offers specialized eating plans, body composition analysis consultations, one-on-one nutrition coaching, certified personal trainers, group classes and digital support networks to drive results.

Raw Fitness’ unique culture of community connects its members and trainers to one another in support of true transformation, mind and body, through an inclusive environment of accountability and encouragement for everyone, no matter where they are in their fitness journey.

“We’ve seen so many success stories in Las Vegas,” said Blum. “People are using Raw Fitness as a tool to transform their lives and make long-lasting, positive lifestyle changes and form lifelong friendships. It was time to broaden our vision and reach as many people as possible. We look forward to sharing Raw Fitness with other communities and continue to help people live their best and healthiest lives.”

For class schedules, current events and membership news visit rawfitnesslv.com. Follow Raw Fitness for fitness tips and more on Instagram @rawfitnesslv and facebook.com/rawfitnessheadquarters.

WAITSFIELD, VT – Discovery Map International, Inc., the leading provider of curated guides to top tourist attractions, cities and towns throughout North America, recently announced a publisher’s division to attract owners of print and online publications to its network of franchise owners and to better serve current franchise owners from the publishing industry.

Discovery Maps are colorful, hand-drawn maps that have become a favorite of travelers for navigating local dining, attractions, businesses, cultural experiences and tourist destinations. The focus will be to market to publishers looking to diversify media offerings and expand their print and digital portfolios.

“In the 21st century, many media outlets are looking to get creative and find new sources of revenue. Owning a Discovery Map franchise gives publishers an additional outlet for current advertisers as well as a way to attract new ones,” said Peter Hans, president of Discovery Map International, Inc. “We have several franchise owners with publishing backgrounds who have provided a ‘road map’ on how a we can complement an existing publication and add revenue to their bottom line, he added”

For the past four years, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina resident Abby Simon has helped natives and tourists discover Charleston with her publication Charleston Inside/Out. In purchasing a Discovery Map franchise, she decided to add to her publishing empire and put her hometown quite literally on the map.

“Mount Pleasant is a city of more than 80,000 people and it shows up on pretty much every top 10 list for best places to live in South Carolina,” said Simon, who, in addition to Discovery Map of Mount Pleasant and Charleston Inside/Out, publishes Man About Town. “Mount Pleasant has also become a popular tourist destination for visitors both on their way to and from Charleston. People are going to love our map because, up until now, there really has been no map for visitors that clearly shows the many fun things you can do in Mount Pleasant.”

Added Abby, “From a work perspective, owning a Discovery Map franchise made sense as I was already in touch with many of these advertisers due to my other publications. So, having Discovery Map in my tool chest provides an additional resource to court advertisers.”

Discovery Map has more than 130 maps across the U.S. and Canada. It is the charge of franchise owner to sell advertising space on the map and the online version of the map, available at discoverymap.com. The typical franchise owner will publish a printed map once or twice per year, depending on the initial print run and the popularity of the map.

Discovery Map franchise owners come from many walks of life. In addition to publishers, some are corporate refugees or semi-retired individuals looking to build a business and fund their full retirement. Others include recent college grads, as well as mothers (and fathers) looking to build a business with hours around the kids’ school schedules. With the advent of the veteran’s program, Discovery Maps are hoping to attract veterans as well.

“Discovery Map is truly a unique and appealing franchise opportunity. It’s not a 9-to-5 gig and you don’t necessarily have to work 12 months a year to run a successful franchise. You just have to be willing to work hard when you work,” said Hans.

Forbes Magazine recently named Discovery Map® one of the top 10 franchises to buy with an initial investment under $150,000. In 2018, it won the Top 50 Franchisee Satisfaction Award based on a survey conducted by FranchiseBusinessReview.

SCOTTSDALE, AZ – PRNewswire

• What: The launch of Pinkberry’s product with/licensing agreement in support of Universal Pictures’ MAMMA MIA! HERE WE GO AGAIN! Pinkberry has created Mamma Mia! Mango, a special limited time combination featuring the new Passion Mango tart frozen yogurt flavor, along with fresh cut mango and honey almond granola. As part of the promotion, fans could have the time of their life when they enter for a chance to win a trip for two to the premiere of Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again in London. (Must be 18 years or older and have a valid passport to enter.) For more details, please visit: http://platform.votigo.com/fbsweeps/sweeps/Mamma-Mia-Here-We-Go-Again-1.
• Who: Jessica Benedick, Pinkberry
• When: Monday, July 2, 2018
• Contact: Jessica Benedick, Pinkberry, 480.362.4837

Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again! arrives in theaters nationwide on July 20, 2018.

www.mammamiamovie.com

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) is pleased to confirm that its acquisition of a 51% stake in Regent Hotels & Resorts (‘Regent’) has now completed.

The 51% interest has been acquired for $39 million in cash, payable in three tranches of $13 million. $13 million was paid on completion, with the second amount due in 2021 and the third in 2024. IHG will have the right to acquire the remaining 49% interest in a phased manner from 2026.

As detailed in the announcement published on 14th March 2018, IHG will bring Regent into its brand portfolio at the top end of the luxury segment and will accelerate its growth globally, supported by IHG’s powerful enterprise. IHG’s intention is to grow the brand from six hotels today to over 40 hotels in key global gateway city and resort locations over the long term.

IHG is already a global leader in the luxury segment with the world’s largest luxury brand, InterContinental® Hotels & Resorts. The acquisition of Regent is in line with IHG’s focus on expanding its footprint in the fast-growing $60 billion luxury segment.

GLENDALE, CA – PRNewswire

Applebee’s®Neighborhood Grill + Bar has a new Neighborhood Drink this month that is unlike anything you’ve seen before. The new $3 Grey Goose Vodka and Ocean Spray® Cranberry Juice Cocktail – also known as 3 Dollar Goose and Cranberry – is handmade with Grey Goose Vodka, a top-ranked, ultra-premium vodka, and mixed with Ocean Spray® Cranberry Cocktail.

The new 3 Dollar Goose and Cranberry is available now at participating restaurants nationwide for the month of July.

“In a show of appreciation to our guests, this is the first time we’re offering a world leading, ultra-premium spirit at an incredible price,” said Patrick Kirk, vice president of beverage innovation at Applebee’s. “We’re known for making a splash with our Neighborhood Drinks, and the new 3 Dollar Goose and Cranberry is an amazingly refreshing premium cocktail that’s perfect for a hot summer day and a huge win for our loyal guests at only $3.”

Applebee’s $3 Grey Goose Vodka and Ocean Spray® Cranberry Juice Cocktail is available all day while dining in at participating Applebee’s locations.

For more information on the 3 Dollar Goose and Cranberry and other limited time offers from Applebee’s, view the online menu and stop by your neighborhood Applebee’s restaurant.

As always, Applebee’s reminds you to please drink responsibly.

Price, participation and hours or availability may vary by location, and guests must be 21-years old or over to enjoy responsibly. Void where prohibited.

LITTLETON, CO – Wag N’ Wash Natural Food & Bakery announced today its national partnership with nonprofit Freedom Service Dogs to launch a fundraising campaign this summer. Dubbed Round Up for Freedom Service Dogs, #unleashthepotential, this campaign aims to raise money to help veterans regain their independence by obtaining the assistance they need from a service animal, free of cost.

From July 1 – July 31 at all Wag N’ Wash locations, when customers choose to round up to the nearest dollar during check out, the change will go toward toward Round Up for Freedom Service Dogs, #unleashthepotential, helping veterans who have made life-altering sacrifices.

Wag N’ Wash hopes to help Freedom Service Dogs achieve its goal of placing 40 service dogs with veterans in 2018. Wag N’ Wash looks to raise $10,000 for the cause, and Healthy Pet Partners, the holding company of Wag N’ Wash, will match up to $5,000. The service dogs that are part of the program are rescues who go through extensive training at the state penitentiary and then receive additional specialized training to meet the needs of the veteran.

“When we were looking for a nonprofit to partner with, Freedom Service Dogs was an natural fit,” said Rob Flanagan, president of Wag N’ Wash Natural Food & Bakery. “Service dogs can have such a substantial impact on the lives of their humans and no one is more deserving than veterans. It’s important to us as a company to give back to a cause that resonates with what we do and with our customers.”

All locations are taking part in the initiative. To donate to the cause, please visit https://freedomservicedogs.org.

A premier destination for your companion animals, Wag N’ Wash offers self-wash and grooming services, natural food products and fresh-made bakery items that are soy-free, corn-free and preservative free. The retail space is a central spot for your dog or cat where you can “wash ‘em, feed ‘em and spoil ‘em, all in one cool place!”

To learn more about Wag N’ Wash, please visit https://wagnwash.com.

PITTSBURGH – Bruster’s Real Ice Cream is making July’s National Ice Cream Month celebration even sweeter by giving away a $3 reward to use toward ice cream purchases at participating shops. Guests must join the new Sweet Rewards loyalty program by visiting www.BrustersSweetRewards.com or downloading the app from Google Play or the Apple App Store. Ice cream prices vary by location, but typically start at $2.99.

In addition to the initial $3 reward, members earn one point for every dollar spent. Every time members accumulate 50 points, they receive a $5 reward good toward Bruster’s treats at participating locations.

Bruster’s – beloved for its indulgent, handcrafted ice cream – also is celebrating National Ice Cream Month with two new limited-time, premium flavors: Espresso Yourself and Cookie Craze. Espresso Yourself, inspired by the cold brew coffee obsession, combines cold brew coffee ice cream with chocolate flakes and crunchy pie crust pieces for a smooth, sweet and crunchy frozen delight. Cookie lovers will crave the trio of treats in Cookie Craze, made with blue vanilla ice cream and loaded with chunks of OREO® cookies, crushed Bruster’s unique Dino sugar cookies and cookie dough pieces.

“Summer is family time, and these new flavors are designed to tempt both kids and adults,” said Jennifer Brinker, vice president of Marketing. “Espresso Yourself is perfect for grown-ups looking to cool down on a hot day, while kids will love the fun and colorful Cookie Craze.” They will be available until the end of July.

As with all Bruster’s Ice Creams, the new flavors are made fresh daily in each shop.

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream features 150 flavors of premium, handcrafted ice cream, yogurt, Italian ice and sorbet. Starting with a proprietary, home-style mix delivered fresh from its dairy, Bruster’s Certified Ice Cream Makers in each shop craft at least 24 flavors every day. There are nearly 200 independently owned locations in 20 states, Guyana and South Korea.