—Zucker Public Relations, Inc., Press Release

WESTON, FL (May 7, 2009) – The Adventures of ExoKid and the Teachings of Money is the first in the Little CFO series of early learning books designed to teach children the practical and spiritual aspects of managing money. Written by Richard Outram, Chief Financial Officer for Heritage Brands, Inc., and illustrated by Elizabeth Kapatos, the book introduces the key concepts of money in a fun and easy to understand format.

“It is so important for our youth to be knowledgeable about finances,” said Outram. “Especially in today’s economy, children need to understand all aspects of managing money. This book explains these key lessons in a way that is easily understood, making learning not only simple, but fun.”

The book tells the story of ExoKid, and his journey to inform children everywhere about what money is, where is comes from, how it is used and how it moves around the world. Outram encourages key influencers in children’s lives, such as parents and teachers, to read The Adventures of ExoKid and the Teachings of Money and to talk openly about money management – a home and school curriculum dialogue which he believes must now become a priority. Throughout the book, Outram poses several questions for discussion that coincide with each chapter.

Outram is currently the EVP & CFO of Heritage Brands, Inc. He has more than 23 years of progressive experience in executive financial management and international business leadership positions within the areas of distribution, business process outsourcing, management consulting, specialty retail and “Big 4” public accounting industries. Outram’s significant accomplishments include successfully leading global enterprises through different phases of growth and business cycles. He is a Certified Public Accountant in the U.S. and the U.K.; as well as, a Certified Fraud Examiner.

Financial Acumen, Inc. is dedicated to promoting global financial literacy training and education. Please visit www.financialacument.net for more information.

—Dog Ear Publishing, Press Release

Today millions of Americans find themselves in serious debt. Many people are unable to live within their means while others have made serious financial mistakes. How can we teach our children the basic skills to avoid the usual pitfalls of bad money management? More importantly, how can we instill in them good common financial sense?

The Adventures of ExoKid and the Teachings of Money is an exciting new children’s book about money that parents, teachers and children can read together. One day ExoKid, a boy from outer space, spies a green piece of paper floating through space. He decides to take the paper back to its source, planet Earth. There he meets Pennie who gives him a tour of a bank and explains how savings accounts work. Later Pennie takes him back to her family where he learns all about how to save money, write up a budget and spend responsibly among other things.

The Adventures of ExoKid and the Teachings of Money begins with elementary explanations of coin and dollar amounts, but as the book progresses, children are introduced to more sophisticated topics such as investments, interest and debt. Each short chapter in the book ends with a list of questions to review the topics and to encourage a dialogue between parents and kids. For example, kids are asked, “What is a budget?” or “Describe the difference between a need and a want.”

The Adventures of ExoKid and the Teachings of Money is a great tool for parents and schools to teach their children and students about finances in a way that not only makes sense but is exciting for them. The dynamic and colorful illustrations by Elizabeth Kapatos will keep children entertained as they learn about the workings of money. Parents and teachers alike will feel relieved that their children and students are learning about finances and children will enjoy riding along with ExoKid!