To prepare for Florida’s 500th anniversary in 2013, Florida Living History, Inc. (www.floridalivinghistory.org), will offer its annual heritage Event – “This Other World”: Ponce de León and the Founding of Florida – on Saturday, March 31st, from 10AM to4PM, at the Mission Nombre de Dios Museum (www.missionandshrine.org/), in St.Augustine, FL.

The Event will commemorate the landing of Don Juan Ponce de León’s “First Fleet,”which carried passengers and crew – white, black, Native American; male and female; soldier and sailor; slave and free – who became the first documented Europeans and Africans to set foot on what is now the continental United States, landing on the east coast of Florida on April 3rd, 1513.

In addition, this Florida Living History, Inc. heritage Event will feature thesecond, annual “This Other World”: Poncede León and the Founding of Florida lecture series on Don Juan Ponce de León and his world. The lectures will take place in the auditorium of the Mission Nombre de Dios Museum.

For further information on “This Other World”: Ponce de León and the Founding of Florida Event, please see the attached press release or contact us at info@floridalivinghistory.orgor (toll-free)1-877-FLA-HIST (1-877-352-4478).

Florida Living History, Inc., is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, educational organization dedicated to the support of living history activities, events, and portrayals related to the history of colonial Florida.

www.floridalivinghistory.org

Be First, Inc. Delves into the Battle of Facebook vs. Google+

We have been speaking about this company over the past few weeks and the response has been astronomical from businesses to artists; from writers to independent organizations. Be First, Inc. has a proven rack record that shows them to be the best social media advertising group in the world today!

Be First, Inc. is a company that lives up to its reputation as “the branding experts,” and with each and every week this company brings another ‘golden nugget’ of information to the business world, and shows what a business, corporation or individual needs in order to make their branding a complete and utter success.

The wealth of information that Be First, Inc. provides is monumental, AND it is very much needed. For all types of businesses and entertainment out there in the world today, there will be no money coming in if there is not a marketing plan set in place and branding going out. Your name, your product, your Service, your music, books – whatever it is that you happen to want to promote to the rest of the world – NEEDS to be promoted by the absolute best. Your name needs to become a brand all its own, and only then will you achieve the success you ultimately deserve.

Now, the whole world knows about Facebook, Twitter, etc. – the downsides and upsides of people and businesses using these particular platforms to make their company and themselves become larger than life. What people may not know is that very recently, Google’s new network has been working quite diligently to outdo Facebook and it‘s many applications for its customers. In fact, these two powerhouses are coming to terms with the fact that more and more businesses, artists, writers, etc. are making their names over the internet. They want branding, and they have given up the old ways of signage, business cards, etc. to get their name ‘in the door.’

Google+ and Facebook seem to be caught in a world where each one wants to shine and come out as the best, actually disregarding Twitter which is odd, seeing as that at least Twitter offers the ‘gift’ of being ‘real-time’ where people do not have to wait for their messages to go out into the world and begin the branding. Of course, for consumers and customers no one really cares how much Google and Facebook fight. In fact, it very much reminds everyone of Apple versus Microsoft. In the end, all the people and businesses cared about was what the two companies were going to do for them. God bless America, right? In the end, when two monumental forces collide the consumer is the one that gets to reap the rewards. And that, my friends, is the way democracy should be. After all, we’re the ones working our behinds off for success, the least these megaliths could do is offer stellar services and a way for us to market and bring in the money.

Google+ is what the program is called. Not exactly the most creative of phrases, but Google has already proven to run the internet. More people get on their machines and go for Google research than anything else in the world – even grabbing a book from the library is out now.

When Google+ AP opened, millions received that colorful “platform” on their screens introducing the new-found program. Of course, I, as many others, didn’t even know what this was all about. The end-user simply saw this as yet another advertising option with no actual reasoning behind it. It took only about a week for the world to find out they were wrong. Google+ API has suddenly drawn-in consumers, editors, developers, and artists from all over the world trying to set up their “Buzz” and links in order to get their customers to know who they are and brand more and more every day. This, of course, IS close to the Facebook “Lists,” where the consumer or business gets their lists created for them. Seeing as that Facebook has been around a long time already, it will be interesting to see if many people use this specific marketing platform – or just continue with Facebook as they have been.

Google+ Search is something else that’s new – although, to this writer, let’s face it – if I want to search for something, I already head straight to Google anyway – nothing new there. Of course, with this addition, now a business or consumer can search for their topic, and then filter the information received into various results – categories such as: “Google+ Posts” and “Sparks.” As everyone already knows, the Facebook search is powered by Bing…and not very good.

Facebook is adding a few applications that are completely “Twitter-based,” as if seeing the monumental overload of people switching to Twitter in order to receive ‘real-time’ updates and be able to send ‘real-time’ messages to their followers.

Google+ will also move into the mobile realm. Google is launching its own mobile version, where there will be multi-user capabilities right on personal mobile devices. They are even allowing a way that you and your company can broadcast “On the Air” and even integrate Google Docs, screen sharing, and more!

Of course, there are other things in the works; some specifically aimed at the “Teen” community which seems to have taken over the world where entertainment, art, books, communication, etc. are concerned. And they are also the main sector of many businesses to focus their products and services on – and Facebook and Google+ will definitely make sure that the “teen” voice is recognized.

In the end, yes, the Facebook network is still the largest social networking site in the world, and they, too will have their announcements to release. However, Be First, Inc. already knows the power behind the Google + API program, and their wisdom can aid all businesses in making their products and services available to billions of sites, customers, and realms.

The Be First, Inc. Ultimate Business Promotion Package offers so many components to businesses, consumers, and artists that it is truly incredible. The publicity is one-of-a-kind, including: creative images, audios, videos, real-time links, news stories, announcements, and promotion on multiple websites – with complete and in-depth articles and features on Twitter and Facebook. And, just to remind you, the rundown of social media sites and the amount of people using these sites has grown exponentially, and Be First Inc., is the company that can use each and every one of these sites to benefit YOU.

Facebook: 750 million active users; Twitter: 200 million; the global community now spends over 110 billion minutes on social networks and blog sites. By utilizing these amazing ‘gifts’ that are already a huge success across the globe, Be First, Inc. offers full social media portfolios. They extend YOUR message to additional key demographic, geographic and behavioral sites – with over 67+ posts every day! Be First, Inc. brands YOUR message and guarantees consistency in all networks. And now, with Google+ API hitting the superhighway, Be First, Inc. is the ONLY company of marketing professionals to use every aspect of the internet world and the social marketing universe to increase your revenue and make you a ‘household name.’

Until Next Time, Everybody.

To Begin Building Your Business Today, go to:

www.befirstinc.com

tom@befirstinc.com

Freeline Sports, Inc., maker of the ever-popular Freeline Skates, today added Pit Surf Shop in St. Augustine, Fl. to its list of specialty retailers and for the first time, enthusiasts in the St. Augustine market will have a chance to experience the action sport that is causing a sensation worldwide and taking the industry by storm.

Offering St. Augustine sports junkies the latest in surfboards, skate gear, and surf lifestyle apparel, Pit Surf Shop will have both the “OG” and the entry level “Grom” skates available to enthusiasts in the area.

The “OG” model is the first in Freeline’s line-up of dual independent skates that are revolutionizing the board sports industry. With reinforced swing arms that are able to hold up to 3000 lbs of downward force, the OG model is made of 356-T6 aircraft grade aluminum for maximum durability, allowing riders to achieve faster speeds than they would on a traditional skateboard.

Freeline’s “Grom” model maintains the company’s signature dual independent sideways skates, but is aimed at recreational cruisers and beginners, who need skates that are lighter, lower to the ground and easier to ride.

With the wheels facing sideways, both models are not only unique in design, but also progressive in size and style, presenting board-sports fans with almost unlimited potential and a higher level of challenge and performance. Freeline Skates are compact enough to fit in any backpack and even in pockets, making them easy to transport and great for any occasion.

“We believe that the nature of skating is about pushing through to new limits, so with Freeline Skates, we were determined to create something that would take riding to the next level,” said Farrelly. “Distributing in St. Augustine has always been a goal for us, since it caters to some of the most talented skaters in the country and Pit Surf Shop has been a key part of making that happen.”

Pit Surf Shop is located at 18 A Street, St. Augustine, FL 32080. Customers interested in Freeline Skates can also call shop manager Clint Richardson at 305-532-1954 for more information or shop online at Pitsurfshop.com. Freeline Skates are also available at www.freelineskates.com or by calling 877-RIP-IT-UP and at specialty and sporting goods stores. Check out the web site for demos on how to use the product with helpful step-by-step tips from the inventor himself.

About Pit Surf Shop
Located next to the most popular beach in St. Augustine, Pit Surf Shop not only sells but rents a range of equipment including Surfboards, Stand Up Paddle Boards, Wetsuits and Bicycles. Pit Surf Shop offers surfing lessons and surf camps and their Skate Team tests all of the skateboards and gear carried in the shop so that customers are presented with only the best products available.

About Freeline Sports, Inc.
Founded in 2003, Freeline Sports, Inc. is a company based on the revolutionary Freeline Skates line developed by Ryan Farrelly, an avid skateboarder, surfer and snowboarder. For athletes looking to push the envelope, these skateboard-like decks were developed to achieve the ultimate downhill performance, while delivering a challenging new way to carve turns, invent new tricks and have fun. Created with an active healthy lifestyle in mind, Freeline believes in the importance of safety and physical fitness for riders of all ages. Headquartered in Southern California, Freeline Sports, Inc. has distributors and riders in almost every major market around the world. For more information on Freeline Sports, Inc. and its products, please visit http://www.freelineskates.com.

Old City Web Services and SAGPS Adventure Tours are revolutionizing the way people discover the Oldest City with the St. Augustine iPhone App featuring the Shivers and Awe Tour available on iTunes and powered by GeoQuest Technologies, Inc.

St. Augustine – The Nation’s Oldest City is stepping into modern times with the new St. Augustine Application for the iPhone and iPod touch powered by GeoQuest Technologies, Inc. The application is available for free on Apple iTunes. Developed through a partnership between local businesses Old City Web Services and SAGPS Adventure Tours, the exclusive application offers locals and visitors the ability to discover St. Augustine like never before.

“We’re thrilled to present this application to our customers and to the general public in and around St. Augustine,” said Old City Web Services president and CEO, Chuck Nusbaum. “Our goal is always to keep the Oldest City on the leading edge of technology to the benefit of local businesses, visitors and residents alike.”

The first phase of the St. Augustine App features a GPS-enabled tour of St. Augustine’s spooky side through the unique vision of the “Shivers and Awe” tour. With the help of an engaging narrator, visitors and locals alike can explore the macabre past of some of St. Augustine’s most popular destinations at their own pace.

“I am very excited to bring new and innovative entertainment using smart phone technology to the nation’s oldest city,” said Jeff Tabor, president of SAGPS Tours, Inc. “I believe that residents of northeast Florida, as well as visitors to our city and local businesses will find the St. Augustine iPhone application both entertaining and user friendly.”

The next phase of the application will act as an extension of OldCity.com, St. Augustine’s leading web portal. Just as locals and visitors can find a wealth of St. Augustine information on OldCity.com, users of the application will be able to surf through listings of local restaurants, shops and attractions with detailed descriptions and contact information.

This addition to the St. Augustine App will also offer a unique opportunity to local businesses looking for new ways to reach customers. Location-based and direct-to- consumer advertising will enable local businesses to guide customers directly to their doorstep. Advances in technology, such as smart phone applications, will help local businesses increase their visibility.

iPhone and iPod touch users are encouraged to go ahead and download the application from iTunes. Doing so will give them access to the Shivers and Awe tour, as well as prompts to download updates as they become available including the scheduled addition of the St. Augustine Trip Planner and much more.

“The Shivers and Awe tour on the iPhone is ideal for visitors and locals to enjoy,” said Jeff Swyers, President of GeoQuest Technologies. “Tourists and residents will be engaged and entertained by this tour of paranormal St. Augustine.”

GeoQuest is a Utah-based company that previously created an interactive iPhone application for Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks.

For more information on all of the features of the St. Augustine iPhone Application and instruction on how to get your free download, visit OldCity.com.

OldCity.com is St. Augustine’s most popular web portal with information on all the hottest restaurants, attractions, accommodations and events in the Oldest City.

GeoQuest Technologies is a Hurricane, Utah based company nestled in the shadows of Zion National Park. Beginning as an independent tour producer for the national parks of Utah and Arizona, GeoQuest Tech transformed into a global leader in producing educational and entertaining multimedia tours for destinations worldwide. The technology developed by GeoQuest Tech allows new destinations to be added rapidly without compromising quality. We partner with destinations who either have content they want turned into an iPhone application or we can help produce a new tour from the ground up. GeoQuest Technologies is dedicated to helping destinations “tell their story” in a unique way. You can reach GeoQuest Technologies at www.geoquesttech.com

St. Augustine, FLORIDA – SA GPS Adventure Tours, Inc. in partnership with St. Augustine Pedi-cab, LLC today announced the launch of a new GPS adventure tour titled, “Shivers and Awe Ghost Ride.” This tour utilizes GPS technology, originally scored background music, professional sound effects, and voice narration of the highest cinematic quality to take visitors on a one hour riding adventure through haunted St. Augustine. This is the second of a series of GPS tours to be launched in St. Augustine. SAGPS Tours successfully launched the “Shivers and Awe” GPS walking tour last summer.

Visitors to St. Augustine can now experience North America’s oldest city while being captivated by ghost stories and paranormal phenomena on a riding tour experience that intertwines with St. Augustine’s rich history and magnificent architectural ambiance. The GPS Ranger® is a handheld GPS (Global Positioning System) triggered computer device that delivers innovative tour experiences and on-site interpretation, including compelling narratives, engaging musical soundtracks, photography, text, and interactive maps based on the location of the user.

Jeff Tabor, President and CEO, SAGPS Adventure Tours said “We are excited about the opportunity to team up and deliver innovative and rich tour experiences that offer visitors to St. Augustine compelling stories and outstanding audio theatre experiences. I envision that this tour will add to our success that we are already having here with the Shivers and Awe walking tour.”

St. Augustine Pedicab provides a comfortable, safe, and environmentally friendly way to see St. Augustine. The bicycle cab is equipped with surround-sound stereo speakers, leather seats, and a bike “cabbie” that is at their service.

“I am very excited about working with ‘Shivers and Awe’ Ghost Tours. I believe that integrating our Pedicab services will add a unique element to the tour that allows the customer to explore on their own while also enjoying the comfort and convenience of riding in the Pedicab”, said Josh Thompson, Owner of St. Augustine Pedicab Tours trigger content automatically around St. Augustine’s paranormal sites, providing location-based experiences on a one hour tour route that is available in Spanish as well as English.

“We are thrilled to launch this tour guide system in St. Augustine,” said Jonathan Stanley, President and CEO of AudioConexus Inc. “We worked closely with SAGPS Adventure Tours to deliver fun and entertaining experiences, presenting a series of ghost stories that turned me into a believer. We’re very excited about our continued success with SAGPS Tour Adventures and being a part of entertaining and educational stories for visitors seeking a whole new way to experience the paranormal phenomenon of St. Augustine.”

GPS Ranger® devices are rented from SA GPS Adventure Tours located at 98 St. George Street and are available in English or Spanish.

About SAGPS Adventure Tours “Shivers and Awe”SA GPS Adventure Tours, Inc. (“SAGPS”) “Shivers and Awe” based in St. Augustine, Florida, provides tourism entertainment using state-of-the-art GPS technology. The company’s mission is to provide high quality experiences in St. Augustine, and beyond, while meeting unmet needs such as convenience, consistency with quality of experience, and the ability to take tours in multiple languages. For more information please visit www.sagpstours.com or call (904) 377-1447.

About St. Augustine Pedicab, LLC
St. Augustine Pedicab’s mission is to provide safe, fun, and convenient transportation throughout downtown St. Augustine while keeping the city, its residents, tourists, and the environment in mind. For more information, visit www.staugustinepedicab.com or call (386) 986-6331.

About AudioConexus Inc.
AudioConexus Inc. (“ACI”) provides GPS triggered sightseeing tours in multiple languages simultaneously, removing language barriers for foreign language travelers. As a leading GPS Media and Entertainment company, we create GPS audio and video experiences in the real world, where urban and natural environments transform into theatrical backdrops for exceptional storytelling. The company provides tourism operators with significantly enhanced tour products and visitor experiences in any language, any topic, anywhere. We help tourism and mass transit operators to increase sales, reduce costs, and promote safer driving.

In addition, ACI’s Global Positioning System (GPS) technology is now being used to deliver Location Based Transit Advertising (LBTA). This new media option provides advertisers with an advertising platform for highly targeted, location-relevant advertising. The LBTA model delivers “the right message to the right people at the right time at the right place”, taking advertising relevance to new level – and to a captive audience. Advertising is now being delivered as digital audio over Public Address Systems and as promotional video on LCD screens.

For more information please visit www.audioconexus.com.

About BarZ Adventures Inc.
BarZ Adventures Inc, innovator of the GPS Ranger tour guide system, was founded in 2005, as an Austin, TX based company combining experts in the fields of computer delivery systems and interpretive content development. BarZ Adventures designed the patented GPS Ranger® and Zoo Ranger® systems, and new Ranger Quest™ GPS gaming experience software, with large venues and their visitors in mind – its sole mission is to enhance the visitor experience at high visitation locations using modern technology. Ranger tour and gaming experiences are available across the United States and internationally.

For more information, please visit www.barzadventures.com or call 512-732-0135.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Jeff Tabor
President and CEO
SAGPS Adventure Tours
(904) 377-1447
jtabor ( @ ) sagpstours dot com